On behalf of the local community, we welcome you to Pierce County. Whether you’re here temporarily or for the long haul, we know you’re going to love our region. With our natural beauty, lakes, streams and forested trails, this is the perfect location for outdoor fun. With some of the best coffee in the world and a vibrant food and entertainment scene, Pierce County has something for everyone.
Let’s face it, moving to a new city can be expensive and time-consuming—but it’s also exciting! This guide is written by a mix of perspectives from native Pierce Countians to people who moved here from out of the area. We created this guide with the things we wish we had known when we moved here.
This resource guide offers tips and reminders to get you settled and to get the nuts and bolts of your new home well underway. This guide will also help you get connected to your local community, schools and health care, and help you put down “roots” in your daily life here. From great ideas for your home and events to engage in the community, we have you covered.
As we put together this issue, we look forward to providing you with information and education about all the “best things” in Pierce County and we hope to give you a sense of place where you belong and can engage and feel connected. We welcome you, our “new neighbor,” to Pierce County.
Kindest regards, Robin Lucas
Robin Lucas, Publisher
Publisher
Robin Lucas
Office Manager
Kris Carver
Editor
Pamela Holt
Calendar Editor
Morgan Marici
Art Director
Susan Newsom
Website
Kelly McKay
Social Media
Madison Ford
Writing Team
Natalie Benson
Lynn Castle
Leah Grout
Julie Leydelmeyer
Kelly Lenihan
Morgan Marici
Emily Molina
Mary Ellen Psaltis
Hillary Ryan
Photography
Amanda Howse
Sales Team
Saundra Coffen
Dana Pethia Shore
New Neighbors Guide is a division of ShowCase Media
Welcome
TO PIERCE COUNTY
BY NATALIE BENSON
You’re a new resident of beautiful Pierce County — congratulations! But now there are some important tasks to take care of. Updating personal information is essential in order to become a productive part of your community. Listed below are some of the critical assignments for new residency.
REGISTER TO VOTE
Get involved in your local laws and government. Register online, by mail, or call for assistance until eight days before an election. sos.wa.gov/elections/voters
GET YOUR FURRY FRIEND A PIERCE COUNTY LICENSE
Believe it or not, your pet is considered a member of the community too! Please register your pet as soon as possible after you’ve moved into the County. You can register online or call. piercecountywa.gov
LEARN YOUR PUBLIC TRANSPORTATION OPTIONS
People are definitely going places in Pierce County, and not just with their own vehicle. Look into Pierce Transit, local taxi options and Sea-Tac Airport. piercetransit.org portofseattle.org
UPDATE YOUR DRIVER’S LICENSE
This is possibly the most urgent on the list of things to take care of during a new move. Visit your local DMV within ten days of moving to update your personal information with your new Pierce County address. Be sure to follow County safety regulations. Need more information? Check out details online. dol.wa.gov
Maritime & Tugboat Festival
Labor Day Weekend • August 29- 31
Over 300 SEAWORTHY
EXPERIENCES:
• friday luminated night market
• tour the tugs on saturday, watch them race on Sunday
• historic ships excursions –lady washington & virginia v
• small watercraft experiences
• makers markets, commercial row, food g’alley
• hands on kids activities
• live music, entertainment, art, pirates & more
The Washington State Fair Event Center Celebrates 125 Years!
The Washington State Fair Event Center celebrates 125 years of creating memories. Since 1900, they have welcomed guests to cultivate unforgettable experiences and lasting traditions.
As the largest single event in the state, the Washington State Fair began as a neighborhood celebration of the harvest season and is now 175 acres of yearround bustle. The Fair closed only twice in its 125-year history, during World War II (when the U.S. government used the grounds as a Japanese incarceration camp) and in 2020 (when Washington State gatherings weren’t allowed during the COVID-19 pandemic). Throughout the past several decades, the venue has become a destination for nonstop activity including five self-produced events and more than 125 other events.
Mark your calendars now for the biggest events. The Washington Spring Fair takes place April 10-13 and 17-20. Celebrate the bright, cheery arrival of the season at Washington’s biggest celebration of spring! The Spring Fair spans two fun-filled weekends, bringing together all the joys of the season with animals, rides, free entertainment and delicious food. From exciting exhibits to hands-on agricultural experiences, it’s the perfect way to welcome spring with your loved ones!
The Taste NW happens June 27-29! Gather your friends and family for Washington’s ultimate summer get-together at The Taste NW! This three-day extravaganza is filled with mouth-watering food trucks, restaurants, drinks, and live entertainment that will keep the energy high all weekend long. Sample, sip and savor your way through the summer while enjoying music, activities and an exciting, edgy atmosphere!
Washington State Fair happens August 29 to September 21 (closed Tuesdays & September 3). The Washington State Fair is the single largest event in our state. With nearly a million guests, this bucket-list event features top-tier entertainment, thrilling rides, incredible food, and a sense of belonging that brings everyone together. Join the celebration of culture, community and unforgettable moments, all while embracing the Fair’s inclusive, trendsetting energy.
WASHINGTON STATE FAIR thefair.com
LIFE IN PIERCE COUNTYBY
Vibrant and diverse, Pierce County is made up of over 20 cities, including urban Tacoma, charming Gig Harbor and home of the Washington State Fair in Puyallup. The County is composed of historic structures and buildings, breathtaking waterfront views, lush rural land, quaint and welcoming suburbs, an ever-industrious energy, and is the neighbor to magnificent Mount Rainier. There is so much to explore.
HEALTH AND WELLNESS
Nonprofits MultiCare and Virginia Mason Franciscan Health offer pristine services, top-rated physicians, and have several locations in order to be easily accessible to patients. Try local yoga studios, gym facilities, therapy offices and more. Everything you need to keep happy and healthy is nearby. Be sure to check business hours.
GET SOME FRESH AIR
There are many opportunities to get outside and play in Pierce County’s varied terrain. There are over 5,271 acres of available recreation - trails, golf courses, beaches, skateboard pavilions, parks and more. Remember, Mount Rainier National Park is close by. Be sure to check restrictions and regulations before venturing out and stay home if you are feeling under the weather.
ARTS AND CULTURE
Our County is alive with creativity and innovation. Immerse yourself at art museums such as the Tacoma Art Museum, the Museum of Glass, and Asia Pacific Cultural Center during their new business hours. Support local artisans and makers by visiting small-town art galleries, downtown boutiques, and local breweries. Dine happily at renowned restaurants and cafes.
HISTORY
The County celebrates so much of its past by maintaining historic buildings and sites and by offering numerous museums relative to each area. Many historic museums have now re-opened to the public. The Fort Nisqually Living History Museum, operated by Metro Parks Tacoma, provides visitors with a look at one of the original settlements on Puget Sound.
NATALIE BENSON
National Recognition for O Bee Credit Union
Readers of Showcase Magazine have told us for many years that O Bee Credit Union was something special. The proof is in their repeat wins as the magazine’s Best Credit Union in a reader poll. Well, what we locals know, now the nation knows -- because Newsweek magazine just named O Bee Credit Union one of America’s Best Regional Credit Unions for 2025!
This prestigious honor recognizes O Bee’s dedication to members and its mission-driven approach to banking. According to O Bee’s CEO Andrew Downin, “While it is common across many credit unions to deliver as much value as possible through higher rates on accounts and lower fees, our track record of delivering back to our members includes $10.6 million in direct financial benefits in 2024.” Downin went on to say, “We do this through genuine and somewhat unique face-to-face service.”
There is no better example of what unique financial institutions O Bee presents than a visit to one of their seven branches designed to look like a pub. “With a nod to our heritage in the brewing industry, our branches focus on the brewing spirit, and we hope you feel like you are talking with your friends and family.”
BY LYNN CASTLE
Newsweek evaluated more than 4,500 credit unions using financial metrics, consumer surveys, social media reviews, and press coverage to select the top 500. O Bee stood out for its focus on member satisfaction, competitive rates, and active community involvement. Founded in 1955 to serve Olympia Brewery employees, O Bee Credit Union has grown to serve 35,000 members across Washington.
With an eye on making the list again in 2026, Downin plans to focus his team members on two goals. First, a renewed investment in training programs. “Thanks to the dedication of our team members, we received this recognition. We want to continue to increase our level of service.” Second, an expanded focus on financially coaching their membership. “We want our members to understand the personal needs of finance.”
While its roots are in the brewing industry, O Bee is open to anyone who lives, works or worships in the State of Washington.
O BEE CREDIT UNION obee.com
ENROLLING IN SCHOOL IN PIERCE COUNTY
BY JULIE LEYDELMEYER
Choosing the best academic environment for your child can seem daunting when you move to a new area. There are numerous traditional options to consider—your neighborhood public school, a charter school, or private school—in addition to currently popular options such as online programs and homeschooling.
Pierce County is home to 16 public school districts and several charter, private and religious school systems. Most of these offer online enrollment for new students on their district or school websites. In general, you’ll need the following information to complete an enrollment form:
• Name of the school you want to enroll your child
• Emergency contact information
• Healthcare provider(s) contact information
• Previous school address and phone number, if applicable
To complete your child’s enrollment, most schools will also ask parents to provide:
• Proof of immunization signed by a healthcare professional
• Proof of residence
• Parents’ photo identification
• Proof of age and legal name for the student
• Previous report cards or transcripts, if applicable
PIERCE COUNTY SCHOOL FINDER RESOURCE:
To find your Pierce County school district, go online to matterhornago.co.pierce.wa.us/infobyaddress.
Enter your address on the interactive map and then click the Additional Info tab.
Tacoma Little Theatre Hosts Students on Stage
BY LYNN CASTLE
More than 105 years ago, an ambitious group of civic-minded community members founded the Tacoma Chapter of the Drama League of America, known today as the Tacoma Little Theatre. Even today, their goal to promote theater, the study of theatrical literature and culture as a means of community building, is alive and well.
According to Chris Serface, the Managing Artistic Director at Tacoma Little Theatre, “We are a destination for every theatre goer no matter what age. We are going to give you the theater you want to see and the theater you didn’t know you wanted to see by challenging you with non-mainstream works of art.”
With a mission to provide live theater and educational programs that inspire through stories reflecting the vibrancy of their diverse community, Tacoma Little Theatre offers the Students on Stage program. This outreach program is designed to bring educational theater experiences to local elementary and middle schools.
“This program is especially important for this age group when so many school districts have been forced to cut funding for performing arts programs,” said Serface recently. An
Olympia native, Serface discovered his own love of theater at an early age as demonstrated by his time as a Capital Playhouse board member at the ripe old age of 17.
Typically helping to implement four programs a year, the performances range from a variety of musical and non-musical options, all designed to bring the importance and value of art into students’ learning. Tacoma Little Theatre supplies the instructors, some minimal sets, costumes, and props to the local participating schools, usually working through
their PTAs. Previous shows have included young performers editions of Finding Nemo, Seussical, Peter Pan and Pirates.
Students will spend five to six weeks rehearsing the production with all programs concluding through a single performance or a weekends’ worth of shows. Participants learn new techniques and theatrical styles to help them as artists and supply them with valuable skills they can apply to their everyday life.
TACOMA LITTLE THEATRE tacomalittletheatre.com
GIVING BACK IN THE
In any community, a sense of “community” is built on the connections made through unique groups of people that support one another. When I moved to Tacoma five years ago, I was wanting to know my neighbors, to feel that my community supported one another, and to find ways to give back. Quickly, I learned that the 253 has an abundance of opportunities for giving of time or financial resources. I encourage you to join me in this building of community.
If you are looking to give time, the South Sound region is filled with organizations that would love to have you as a volunteer. You can choose to focus on a wide range of interests: recreation, arts, social justice, health and education, to name a few. If you
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are passionate about education and the development of younger generations, a good place to start is in our schools. Outside of the schools, nonprofits often look for volunteers to do administrative tasks or provide program support.
Two good ways to find out about service opportunities are to join the Volunteers group on Facebook or visit the nonprofit websites listed on the Greater Tacoma Community Foundation page.
When you feel your roots settling into the 253 and your heart is called to give back, but your time is limited, a monetary gift can provide hope and resources throughout the South Sound. “Philanthropy” is often
BY TAUNA SHOEMAKER
misperceived as giving big financial gifts, but a gift of $20 a month goes a long way in creating a sustainable community. For Emergency Food Network, for example, every dollar you donate provides $12 worth of nutritious food for our neighbors in need. Philanthropy in any amount promotes the welfare of others. Your generous gift could change lives.
To find local organizations that qualify for tax-exempt giving, visit the nonprofit listing on the Greater Tacoma Community Foundation page.
ATips to transform a house into a home with decor and furniture from the heart
~
Design tips provided by Sage Interiors in Tacoma
*Your entry is the initial introduction to your home and sets the stage for you and your guests. Place a cozy rug or floor mat inside the door to define the entry and give an immediate sense of personality. A reclaimed wood bench, umbrella stand or coat rack, and luscious candles complete the welcoming picture.
*Be creative with your space. Move items at an angle, layer different rugs, and add a wall of photos and memories. Use your imagination to make the space warm, inviting and as unique as you are.
*Try to bring nature inside. Although the Northwest is overflowing with the beauty of nature, we all know that during our wet, gloomy weather we may stay inside for much of the time. Visit your local nursery to get tips on what kind of plants will work for your space, the amount of light available, and your lifestyle.
*Incorporate different elements such as wood, metal, glass and greenery throughout each room to bring warmth and life to your spaces. Mirrors not only provide style and function but also lighten up a room and help create movement.
Getting Settled into a new home
BY KELLY LENIHAN
After the last box is moved into your new home, you might think the hardest part of moving is over. And you’re right, but there are still things to take care of before you can relax completely.
GET YOUR UTILITIES SET UP
You don’t want to arrive at your new place late at night and find that the lights don’t work. Before you move, arrange for the utilities to be set up there. Make sure all of your services are up and running so you can check your electronics and appliances.
CHECK MAJOR APPLIANCES
If you moved major appliances, such as a range, dishwasher, washer or dryer, check to make sure nothing was damaged during the move. This is particularly important if the mover prepared your appliances for the move. Your insurance policy may have a limited time in which to make a claim. Since these are big-ticket items, you want to make sure they’re all working.
CHECK ALL BOXES AND FURNITURE
Make sure all boxes and furniture arrived and that nothing is damaged. If you’re missing something or you find damage, contact the mover and your insurance company to submit a claim. It’s important to do this immediately after moving in or the insurance company may not reimburse you.
SAVE RECEIPTS
Keep all receipts and documentation related to your move in one file and store the file in a safe, secure place. Make sure you have your bill of lading and payment receipt. You may be able to claim your move on your next tax return, and you’ll need all the necessary receipts to make your claim.
MAKE SURE YOU’RE GETTING YOUR MAIL
Check with the post office about mail forwarding. Update all important files and documents with your new address and notify everyone who needs to know about your move.
Ed Selden Carpet One: Three Generations of Evolving
BY LYNN CASTLE
“My name and reputation are very important to me, so I make sure the right product is selected for the environment it is going to be put in,” said Gayle Selden, President and owner of Ed Selden Carpet One in Lakewood. Pride in her name is a natural result when you are the granddaughter of the founder and original owner, Ed Selden.
More than 65 years ago, Ed recognized an opportunity in new home construction in Lakewood and predicted there would be a need for all types of different flooring. Over the years, the business transitioned, pivoted, and expanded to meet ever-changing business environments. At one point, under Gayle’s father, the business moved to a residential remodel operation and then as times improved it expanded again to include providing products to commercial, residential, new construction, and remodels.
According to Selden, “We sell all types of flooring and accessory items including hardwood, tile, vinyl, carpeting and the new luxury vinyl plank that every home improvement television show features.” But Ed Selden Carpet One isn’t just about floors. They can assist with an entire project including clients that are remodeling their home so they can age in place. “These projects are really challenging, but they are also so rewarding.”
Standing behind their wide variety of products and especially their installation is one of the driving tenets of Selden’s business philosophy. “We make sure the customer picks the right product by coming to their home and recommending the right product for their needs,” said Selden.
In a world filled with big box options, it’s nice that shoppers have the option to go in and talk to the owner about their needs. With such a wide range of products, and a willingness to hunt down a client’s wild dream, Selden and her team are good problem solvers.
Selden encourages people to shop local. “When people shop independent, local places they are making a better, brighter impact on their community without spending any extra money.” Through her own community outreach and that of her team, Ed Selden Carpet One exemplifies her belief that a strong community builds a strong business.
ED SELDEN CARPET ONE edseldencarpetonelakewood.com
Ranger Heating & Cooling
BY LYNN CASTLE
Ranger Heating & Cooling prides itself on their integrity. It just comes down to doing the right thing. According to Ranger’s President, David Kallander, “We approach every project as if it were our own house and we make sure the job is done right.”
The heating and cooling industry is in Kallander’s blood as the third generation to work in this field, starting with his grandfather some 70 years ago. In operation for more than ten years, Ranger focuses primarily on residential work and some light commercial projects where the team of 24 employees look at systems as a whole project.
“How we approach the project is not typical in our industry,” said Kallender. “We take in all the information about a home and focus on improving the overall quality from air filtration to safety.”
The Ranger team will evaluate smoke detectors, gas valves, propane ventilation, and ductwork and then focus on the customer’s quality of life. Throughout the install, Ranger staff want their customers
to have a really good experience. It is what drives their entire team to excellence. As experts in saving energy, Ranger can ensure they install the most energy efficient system for your home which takes advantage of all energy rebates and financing options.
Through their customer service and year-round consistent pricing, Ranger sets itself apart from others in its field. “Because we only work with strong brands like Daikin, with low failure rates, Ranger can offer lifetime workmanship guarantees,” added Kallender. Plus, Daikin products are made 100% in the USA.
Serving all communities in the South Puget Sound, Ranger believes in up-front pricing and they are committed to providing professional service that is guaranteed to exceed customers’ expectations.
Farmers Markets provide access to fresh, local, sustainable food and food products. At most of our local markets, you will find not only fresh fruits and vegetables, but also fresh-cut flower bouquets, garden and landscaping plants, artisan breads, farm fresh eggs and meats,and handcrafted items for gift giving, plus many markets have regular entertainment and dining out options.
LAKEWOOD FARMERS MARKET
The City of Lakewood plans to continue using Fort Steilacoom park for their Farmers Market on Tuesdays. The market will begin the first Tuesday in June from 2 to 7pm. According to the organizer of the Lakewood market, Sally Martinez, “Farmers markets are a way for the community to gather. It is a family affair where we can get more done as we shop, socialize, play, and eat in a beautiful setting.” cityoflakewood.us/lakewood-farmers-market
CITY OF TACOMA FARMERS MARKETS
The City of Tacoma hosts the Broadway Market on Thursdays at 9th and Broadway from 10am to 2pm May through October 31. The Stewart Heights Park market is held on Fridays, 3-6pm June 7 through August 30. tacomafarmersmarket.com
GIG HARBOR WATERFRONT FARMERS MARKET
This market operates on Thursdays at the scenic Skansie Brothers Park June through August. waterfrontfarmersmarket.org
THE PUYALLUP FARMERS MARKET
One of the largest markets in the Puget Sound, Puyallup is open every Saturday, April through October, from 9am to 2pm at 330 South Meridian. Opportunities to become a vendor or a volunteer can be found on their website. puyallupmainstreet.com
Boba Tea Bringing Joy to Their Community
Tammy Phan and her husband Timothy Yang grew up in the Tacoma area spending some of their first dates at boba tea locations. When the opportunity to open the franchise Bober Tea and Mochi Dough presented itself, they realized it was a wonderful combination of their desire to create joy with their love of boba tea.
According to research, the number of bubble tea shops in the U.S. grew by 23.4% from the previous year to more than 3000, with the upward trend appearing to continue.
“The boba tea market is huge and I welcome more of them to open — spreading the love of bubble tea so it becomes like coffee,” said Phan. “The Bober brand is very high-quality and a great combination with our madefresh-daily mochi donuts.”
“Mochi donuts have a fun design that makes them perfect for sharing because you can easily pull them apart at the beads.” Mochi donuts use rice flour instead of the traditional yeast donuts many of us are more familiar with to create the airy, chewy-on-theinside, crispy-on-the-outside, “pon de ring” shaped donut.
Located in Green Firs Towne Center near Trader Joes in University Place, Bober Tea and Mochi Dough opened in September of 2023 and has been providing six varieties of fresh donuts made every morning. You’ll always find these tasty treats in churro, funnel cake and taro glazed, with three other offerings varying from day to day.
BY LYNN CASTLE
“Community is so important to me. From our customers to our staff family, I really want everyone to experience extra joy,” said Phan. With a goal of creating long-lasting relationships, she hopes that through her new business she can spark joy and more people will find ways to celebrate and enjoy a new treat.
To sample these premium Japanese donuts and high-quality boba tea drinks, visit the Bober Tea and Mochi Dough store in Green Firs Towne Center on Bridgeport in University Place.
BOBER TEA AND MOCHI DOUGH boberteauniversityplace.square.site
Local Food Favorites
BY MORGAN MARICI
Pierce County is home to some of the best places to dine and enjoy a meal with loved ones. Below is a list of some of our favorite establishments that you should try now that you call Pierce County home.
CROCKETT'S PUBLIC HOUSE PUYALLUP & BONNEY LAKE
Voted as a reader favorite for People’s Choice, you have to check out the menu of high-quality and locally sourced ingredients. This family friendly location was featured on the Food Network show, Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives. Fish tacos are a staff favorite! crockettspublichouse.com
COPPER & SALT RESTAURANT RUSTON
For a special treat or just a day or evening of enjoying the water views, check out the Copper and Salt at Point Ruston’s Silver Cloud Hotel. Featuring handcrafted cocktails, locallysourced produce and fresh ingredients, their culinary team presents artisan dishes that capture the spirit of our region. copperandsaltnw.com
TRACKSIDE PIZZA PUYALLUP & SUMNER
Trackside Pizza is family-friendly and a perfect place to take the kids for a fun experience. Kids are invited to create their own pizza and the team at Trackside will bake it up. They say “Pie Up” and they will bake it up for you. pizzatrackside.com
WOVEN SEAFOOD AND CHOPHOUSE RUSTON
At Woven Seafood, Pacific Islands meet the Pacific Northwest. Chef Roy Yamaguchi has artfully created a menu that weaves local heritage with the roots and spirit of the Hawaiian Islands. Foodies will love this location as there is always something fresh and sizzling on the menu — not to mention fantastic waterfront views. eatwoven.com
LEARN MORE
Tacoma Transplant Survivor Supports Go Red for Women
Macey Wright received a new heart in 2016 and will be participating in Go Red for Women’s annual initiative to elevate awareness and inspire action.
Wright is proof that heart disease can strike at any age. Born with two congenital heart defects, Wright began her life impacted by heart disease. Although she had heart valves that didn’t work properly, it didn’t stop her from living life to the fullest and pursuing hobbies like gymnastics. But at age 14, Wright’s heart was beyond repair and she was listed for a heart transplant which she received.
“I am lucky to have benefited from scientific advances and treatments and I want the same opportunities to be available to all women," shares Wright. I plan to wear red to celebrate my journey, to elevate awareness among women about their largest health threat, and hopefully inspire someone to make a healthy change.”
The American Heart Association’s signature women’s initiative, Go Red for Women®, urges everyone across the Puget Sound to join us in advocating for better health and well-being for all women. Here in Washington the community can engage on National Wear Red Day by:
• Wear red and share: add a touch of red to your outfit to raise awareness and inspire action to improve individual health and well-being. Share your support on social media using #WearRedDay, #WearRedAndGive, #GoRedforWomen and #goREDwa.
• Make a donation to the American Heart Association: support the Go Red for Women movement through a Wear Red and Give donation at WearRedDay.org.
• Join Research Goes Red: ensure women are represented in cardiovascular research through participation in Research Goes Red, an initiative to engage women in contributing to health research.
• Learn Hands-Only CPR: women are less likely to receive bystander CPR than men. Ensure more women get the immediate life-saving help that they need in an emergency by watching a 60-second video at GoRedforWomen.org.
• Support the Go Red for Women movement in stores:
º The Big Lots Foundation matches donations (up to $500,000 total) made on heart.org and GoRedforWomen.org for the entire month of February. Additionally, Big Lots stores are helping customers “go red” by offering a Red Dress pin for donations of $3 or more.
º CVS Health offers an opportunity to give at the register throughout the month of February in addition to supporting year-round research, education and access to care that improves women’s cardiovascular health.
º Blue Heron Jewelry in Poulsbo will collect donations for the American Heart Association February 1-15.
Nearly 45% of women over age 20 are living with some form of cardiovascular disease (CVD). CVD is also the leading cause of maternal death in the U.S., or more simply put, heart disease is the No. 1 killer of new moms. The good news is, heart disease and stroke are largely preventable through healthy lifestyle choices and management of risk factors.
Find educational resources to support women’s heart and brain health at every age, through every stage of life at GoRedforWomen.org and learn more about National Wear Red Day at WearRedDay.org. Go Red for Women is nationally sponsored by CVS Health and locally supported by Optum Care Washington, Premera Blue Cross, MultiCare Health System and Cambia Health Foundation.
AMERICAN HEART ASSOCIATION heart.org
Health Starts Where We Live, Work and Play
BY KELLY LENIHAN
Since 2005, Pierce County Gets Fit & Healthy, a countywide initiative to promote the importance of healthy eating and active living, has provided tools to help everyone get fit and healthy. It is a major collaborative effort, led by the MultiCare Center for Healthy Living, the YMCA of Pierce and Kitsap Counties, and the Tacoma-Pierce County Health Department. Best of all, it’s easy to participate. Whatever your health challenge, whatever your fitness goals, Pierce County Gets Fit & Healthy has something for you.
Sure, healthy living is a long-term commitment, but there are steps you can take right now that will make you healthier today than yesterday and pave the way for healthy living tomorrow. Since Pierce County has 50 park sites totaling over 4,200 acres, why not find a walking buddy and get out on one of many walking trails right away? Not sure where to start? Check out this handy walking guide for beginners.
HEALTH CARE RESOURCES
• YMCA
• Hospitals
Healthy choices should be convenient choices for everyone in Western Washington. That’s why Pierce County medical providers are helping families live healthier lives, through programs and services in medical clinics and hospitals throughout our communities.
Tacoma health care quality comes down to access, affordability and outcomes. Out of 39 counties in Washington, Pierce County ranks 24 for health outcomes, 26 for health factors, and 33 for healthy behaviors. Research indicates that a healthy lifestyle may prevent up to 70 percent of common life-threatening diseases, including heart disease, stroke, cancer and diabetes.
• Medical Clinics
• Emergency Services
• Senior Centers/Resources
• Caregiver Support
• Parent Help 123
• Maternal Child Outreach
• Community Health Care
• Children With Special Health Care Needs
• Tacoma/Pierce County Health Department
Service and convenience at the heart of
LIGHT DENTAL STUDIOS
We can all agree on the qualities for the ideal dental provider: round-the-clock service, free consultations, same-day appointments, entire-family bookings, empathetic service and affordable care. It’s nearly impossible to find a full combination of such attributes. But then there’s Light Dental Studios.
Based in Puyallup, the dentist-owned company—with 30 locations in the Puget Sound—has customer service at the core of its mission.
“We try to treat people the way we would want to be treated,” says owner and CEO Dr.
Steven Broughton, who bought his first office from a former dentist in Puyallup in 1997. “People say our practice feels like we’re all neighbors, like they’re just going down the street for friendly dental care.”
With hours from 7am to 7pm including Saturdays, doctors available 24/7, free consultations, same-day appointments, and and entire-family same-day care, Light Dental Studios has solutions patients need.
“We’re trying to make dentistry effortless by making it about our patients, not the dentists,” says Broughton. “Our schedule
BY LEAH GROUT
accommodates their schedule, not the other way around. Our doctors are always available, and almost all procedures are done in-house.”
Besides standard dental checkups, treatments and other services, Light Dental Studios offers on-site orthodontics, implants, surgeries and dentures. Children’s dental care is also offered. In fact, the offices frequently schedule care for entire families side-by-side on the same day to save time.
Light Dental Studios also gives back to the community at the annual South Sound Free Dental Day. That’s when the staff donates its time and skills to give away more than $100.000 worth of dental work—including fillings and extractions—on a first come, first-served basis. “We want patients to feel comfortable,” Broughton says. “Our first goal is to provide same-day treatment.”
Broughton notes that Light Dental Studios will continue to add offices over the upcoming years in locations with growing families.
Warm-Weather Wellness Tips for Seniors
BY KELLY LENIHAN
Warmer weather often awakens a desire to get outside and be active. But seniors who have a higher sensitivity to heat need to use caution when making plans in the sun.
PUT ON YOUR WALKING SHOES
Walking is an excellent physical activity. And doing so in a park or forest is a great way to connect with nature. Joining a group can also be an easy way to meet new friends. Choose terrain—and supportive shoes—suitable for your activity level and balance.
TAKE AN EXERCISE CLASS
Get your endorphins flowing! Yoga, pilates or tai chi can all improve balance and flexibility, decreasing the chance of falling. Water aerobics is good for those with arthritis or chronic pain. Or try low-impact sports such as horseshoes, miniature golf, bocce ball, bean bags, badminton or croquet.
GET OUTSIDE AND GARDEN
Gardening can be as calming and relaxing as an hour of meditation. Digging, planting and weeding can improve strength, flexibility and agility. If you don’t have a garden, consider volunteering at a local park.
LIGHTEN UP YOUR DIET
With fruits and vegetables coming into season, it’s time to enjoy salads, light soups and other lighter fare. Farmers markets provide an opportunity to get outdoors and select healthful foods for dinner.
STAY HYDRATED
As we age, our ability to notice thirst may decrease, so keep an eye on your water intake, especially when you’re outdoors in the sun. At home, drink water and herbal tea rather than other beverages.
WATCH FOR ALLERGIES
Summertime can mean allergy season, so pay attention to allergy forecasts. Untreated allergies are uncomfortable and can lead to breathing problems or sinus infections. Your doctor can recommend or prescribe a treatment to help prevent serious respiratory problems.
CHECK THE SIDE EFFECTS OF YOUR PRESCRIPTIONS
Some medications increase sun sensitivity. Find out whether you need to take extra precautions. Following other suggestions on this list will help you avoid problems.
RELISH THE OUTDOORS
Enjoy the great outdoors with a picnic! Just remember to pick an area with comfortable seating and shade, even if it’s in your own backyard. Bird-watching and photography are two other pastimes to stimulate the mind and body. If you love to shop, flea markets are a fun summertime activity. Just remember to protect yourself with sunglasses, a wide-brimmed hat, sunscreen and bug repellent.
