June 2016 Gig Harbor Living Local by Like Media

JUN

2016

LIVING LOCAL

Cool Summer Gear Our Typical

Northwest Summer

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SCUBA Hot Spots

SERVING GIG HARBOR

Pharmacy . Full Service Repair . Home Delivery . Exceptional Patient Care

Olympic Pharmacy and Healthcare Services has grown into a leading provider of medical supplies and equipment to the Puget Sound area. Our mission is to provide our customers with the highest quality products, exceptional customer service and to be an active participant in our patientsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; healthcare and well being. We believe that offering exceptional patient care is a collaborative effort. Our trained and knowledgeable staff understand that every patient is unique and strives to promote a warm and caring environment where our patients feel comfortable.

4700 Pt. Fosdick Drive Northwest Gig Harbor, Washington 98335 (253) 858-9941 . Fax: (253) 851-9942

Because We Care. GigHarborLivingLocal.com

Carolyn Westmoreland Managing Broker

The Westmoreland Real Estate Group

253.961.5596 Looking to buy or sell your home? Call Carolyn.

Trusted. Referred Time & Time Again.

Exceptional Service, Exceptional Company.

CW f Tl

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Mark Wambold NMLS ID 248580 State Lic. MLO-248580 Direct 253.225.3352 | mwambold@fairwaymc.com www.wamboldhomeloans.com This information is not intended to be an indication of loan qualification, loan approval or a commitment to lend. Other limitations may apply. ÂŠ2014 Fairway Independent Mortgage Corporation FIMC NMLS ID#2289 (www. nmlsconsumeraccess.org) EQUAL HOUSING LENDER WA. License Number MLO-248580.

Beautiful Living FOR EVERY

STEP IN LIFE

Bellesara - Harbor Crossing - Blackstone GIG HARBOR

GIG HARBOR

MANCHESTER

Now is the time to live with the ease, innovation and quality of a new construction home, and there is only one local Gig Harbor team to help realize your dream: RUSH RESIDENTIAL | ED ARO | THE JAMES GROUP AT ON Q FINANCIAL, INC.

WWW.RUSHRESIDENTIAL.COM

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Address & Directions Model Home Hours Features & Upgrades

To pre-qualify for home ﬁnancing, call Dawn James (NMLS# 487467) at On Q at 253-313-1586. On Q Gig Harbor Ofﬁce Location: 2727 Hollycroft St NW #360 Gig Harbor, WA 98335

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On Q Financial, Inc. is an equal housing lender. NMLS #5645. 068i0000001v8ET

SHOP

Enjoy your Uptown Life! Take a break from the ordinary, the expected.

SIP

Treat yourself to the easygoing Uptown style. Sunday Farmers Market April – September 11am to 4pm Peninsula Art League Drawing You In July 6 – August 31 Wednesdays Free Thursday Summer Concerts July 7 – August 18 6pm to 8pm

STROLL

Cruise the Narrows Car Show August 6 – 9am to 3pm Galloping Gertie ½ Marathon and 5k August 13 Glass Pumpkin Patch September 24 – 9am to 3pm

DINE Monday to Saturday 10am to 8pm, Sunday 11am to 6pm Hwy 16, Exit 10 - Olympic Drive to 4701 Pt, Fosdick Drive UPTOWN GIFT CARDS NOW AVAILABLE

DISCOVER

www.uptowngigharbor.com

GigHarborLivingLocal.comOver 5

30 stores

SAIL AWAY FULLY PROTECTED

THE FREEDOM OF THE OPEN WATER FEELS EVEN BETTER WHEN YOU ARE FULLY COVERED. PROTECT YOURSELF AND OTHERS USING YOUR WATERCRAFT. Call Tim Lopez to make sure you have what you need. TIM LOPEZ, AGENT AMERICAN FAMILY INSURANCE 7512 Stanich Lane Unit 2 Gig Harbor, WA 98335 Office: 253.858.7200 Fax: 253.858.7700 f / TimothyLopezAgency www.trlopez.com GigHarborLivingLocal.com

Home sale prices are climbing. Are you ready to sell your home in this hot market? Call or email for a complimentary consultation!

253.732.0534 sue@suerand.com www.suerand.com

f â&#x20AC;&#x153;Why Gig Harbor is a great place to live, work and playâ&#x20AC;?

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WWW.GIGHARBORLIVINGLOCAL.COM

MARKETING

Washington Sales & Marketing Director | Julie Reed 253.273.8524 | julie@livinglocal360.com

EDITORIAL

Managing Editor | Patty Hutchens patty@livinglocal360.com Editor | Jani Gonzalez jani@livinglocal360.com

DESIGN

Creative Director | Whitney Lebsock Senior Designer | Jessica Herbig

Grab quick, gourmet meals when you are busy with after-school sports, activities and events! Walk in, drive thru, Grab & Go!

SOCIAL MEDIA/EVENTS

Media Manager/Events | Kelly Williams kelly@livinglocal360.com Media Intern | Maddie Russo maddie@livinglocal360.com

ACCOUNTING/OPERATIONS

Managing Partner | Kim Russo Executive Director | Steve Russo

COVER PHOTOGRAPHY Photo provided by Diane Fetzner

GIG HARBOR LIVING LOCAL MAGAZINE

is brought to you by www.livinglocal360.com. If you would like to advertise with us please call 253.273.8524 or email info@livinglocal360.com. To submit articles, photos, nominations and events, email us at events@livinglocal360.com.

Grocery, Deli, coffee & Gifts

N 47º

19’

W122º

32’

Mon-Sat 7am-7pm, Sun 8am-4pm Drive Thru Opens 7am - 6pm Mon-Sat, 8am-4pm Sun 7804 Pioneer Way | Gig Harbor, WA 98335 253.358.3241 | www.theharborgeneralstore.com

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Living Local Magazine is published monthly and distributed freely throughout the Pacific Northwest and Inland Northwest; Gig Harbor, Edmonds, Bonners Ferry, Sandpoint, Dover Bay, Coeur d’Alene, Hayden, Rathdrum and the Spokane Valley. Opinions expressed in articles or advertisements do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the publisher. Living Local Magazine is not responsible for omissions or information that has been misrepresented to the magazine. Living Local Magazine is produced and published by Like-Media and no part of this publication may be reproduced or transmitted without the permission of the publisher.

Join Our Gig Harbor Team! SALES & MARKETING Position

We hire for PERSONALITY and train for skill!

Are you a people person? Looking for new opportunities? Like building local relationships? Interested in print and digital?

Send cover letter and resume to: info@livinglocal360.com

Kitchen designs to meet your style from Mediterranean modern to contemporary.

www.sfaarchitechture.com

modern or classical

Snodgrass Freeman Associates, Architects

7195 Wagner Way, Suite 201 • Gig Harbor, WA 98335 253.851.8383 • www.sfaarchitechture.com

David Freeman & Kenn Snodgrass

davesfa@comcast.net • kennsfa@comcast.net

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PUBLISHER A Celebration of Dads

CHRISTIAN EVANGELIST Billy Graham said, “A good father is one of the most unsung, unpraised, unnoticed, and yet one of the most valuable assets in our society.” A strong male role model is important for both boys and girls to have as they take the journey from newborn to adult and beyond. A child’s relationship with his or her father will influence greatly the relationships the child will have in the future. Daughters will tend to search out men who are like their fathers, while sons will tend to mold themselves after their father - their first male role model. Being present and actively teaching life skills is an important quality for fathers to possess. But let’s face it, many children in our society today do not have a father present in their lives. This is where it becomes especially important for us as a community to help nurture these children. One area where I have been blessed to influence the lives of children is through my role as a coach. I don’t simply instruct kids on the fundamentals of football, baseball and basketball, I teach them important life skills as well. And I listen. It is not just through coaching that men can influence the lives of the younger generation, there are countless opportunities through church groups, Big Brother programs, Boy Scouts and more. Does one of your children have a friend who does not have a father figure? Invite them to a ball game or a father / daughter dance. It will mean the world to them. On this Father’s Day, take the time to reflect on the people in your lives who have been a father figure to you. In addition to your own dad, reach out and thank them for the role they have played.

“W H ER E FA MI LY IS A LWAY S F I RST.” “We are committed to providing professional, compassionate assistance in a safe and nurturing environment, ensuring a life of dignity and independence for seniors in our community.”

A very happy Father’s Day to all the dads! You are valued more than you know! Creating. Connecting. Living Local.

Steve Russo

Steve Russo | steve@livinglocal360.com DOWNLOAD THE GIG HARBOR LIVING LOCAL APP TODAY!

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ABOUT THE COVER 2016

LIVING

office

253.853.2033

web

familyfirstafh.com

address 4700 Pt. Fosdick Dr. #312 Gig Harbor, WA 98335

IT IS TIME TO GET OUTDOORS and enjoy the beauty of the Pacific Northwest! With the flowers in full bloom and the many opportunities we have to enjoy nature, we are blessed to live in the midst of God’s most beautiful creations! This cover photo by photographer Diane Fetzner shows just one of the many adventures that await you now that summer has arrived!

JUN

LOCAL

Cool er Summ Gear SCUBA

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Our Typical mer rthwest Sum No

Hot Spot

al.com

rLivingLoc

GigHarbo

We are the #1 distributed magazine in our target markets.

Preparing your home

? t e k r a for M

Call The Jones Team for a free Market Analysis.

BETTER GYM better. because quality of life is earned Buying or selling a home? Call us today!

Gary & Sandy Jones

Training to move well, increase strength, sharpen focus, and gain the mental toughness that are essential for optimal quality of life.

Your Gig Harbor Real Estate Team (253) 514-1988

Experience • Efficiency • Passion

For all your mortgage needs...

Call me today!

NMLS #1850

Debbie Mishko

Loan officer, MLO 10968

5201 Olympic DR NW Suite 110 (360) 239-1942 debbie.mishko@apmortgage.com

GigHarborLivingLocal.com

253.225.4037

susan@bebettergym.com 6659 Kimball Drive Gig Harbor, WA 98335 www.bebettergym.com

f/betterperiod t/bebettergym

/be_better_gym #bebettergym

#GIGHARBORLIVING GET SOCIAL & LIVE LOCAL! Use the tag #GigHarborLiving when you post your photos on Instagram and Facebook. Your photos will show up on our Get Social page at WWW.GIGHARBORLIVINGLOCAL.COM

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via dif1998 ! morning rbor this ing a H e th ent to harborliv Glad I w utiful #gig a e b y z Cra

and you’ll have the chance to see your photos in print right here!

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la_skoge n via Backyard baseball #b #pnw #g igharbor atterup #wiffleb all #pnwlivin g #gigha #mykids rborliving

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Contributors

Kim Roth • Mike McAuliffe • Kellie French Diane Fetzner • Lynette Hoy • Dan Aznoff • Will Mihin

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Julie Reed Washington Sales & Marketing Director 253.273.8524 julie@livinglocal360.com

Green Cottage Pets See what a difference a good diet will do for your pet.

A Health Food Store for Dogs & Cats

3028 Harborview Drive Gig Harbor, Washington 253.851.8806

greencottagepets@earthlink.net www.greencottagepets.com Bintang, 8 years & Odin, 7 months, loving life in the Gig!

Bookkeeping • Payroll • Quarterly & Annual Taxes

CALL NOW

for a consultation to see how we can give you the freedom to focus on your business!

“I didn’t lose my independence, I gained it along with parts of my life I thought were gone forever. My caregiver is incredible, thanks again for bringing her to me.” —Ms. Jean V.

3208 50th St. NW Ste. 205-C Gig Harbor, WA 98335

Jennifer Price-Paul Jennifer@madronabookkeeping.com 253.858.2633 phone 855.611.8918 fax

Toll Free 844.530.4455 • slawson@homecarepioneers.com

www.homecarepioneers.com

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JUNE 2016

VOLUME 3 NUMBER 6

Cool Summer Gear Summer is here and it’s time to get out and enjoy all that the warm weather has to offer. In this article by Michael McAuliffe, you will discover some of the great adventures that await you this summer across the Pacific and Inland Northwest. Get out your calendar and begin to plan! You won’t want to miss any of these great opportunities!

Good News

School is much more than reading, writing and arithmetic. Expanding a child’s world and creativity through art is an important element of a well-rounded education. Thanks to a group of Gig Harbor residents, children in our region’s schools are experiencing art through a variety of mediums. Learn more about the Hands On Art Project in this story by Kellie French.

Feature Story Living abroad can come with a great deal of challenges, but it can also come with an abundance of opportunities. In this article by Kim Roth learn how her family made the most of their Denmark experience while her husband worked in the country, making every day a new adventure.

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If You’re Thinking About Buying or Selling Real Estate, We Should Talk!

F I NH O L M’ S

- A Great Deal Depends on Your Broker Master Craftsman Home $628,000 Set in an intimate neighborhood meandering to a protected salmon creek, with a magnificent great room framed by 15 ft windows, hand finished hardwoods, exquisite millwork, dream kitchen and a large main floor master suite. This home personifies charm and quality. First time on the market since new, call today!

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Serving Gig Harbor and the entire West Sound

Bryan Bosveld, Broker 5775 Soundview Dr., Ste. B 202 Gig Harbor, WA 98335

Main 253.514.7348 Office 253.693.4940 Bryan@infinityrewa.com

Stop renting. Stop Stoprenting. renting. Start owning. Stop renting. Startowning. owning. Start Start My team isowning. ready to help

RE ADY. before, during and after any disaster. Protect your home. CALL ME TODAY.

Kent Cashman, Agent State Farm Agent Kent Cashman, Agent State Farm Agent 6745 Kimball Drive STE D Kent Cashman, Agent 6745 Kimball STE D Gig Harbor, WADrive 98335 State Farm Agent Kent Cashman, Agent Gig Harbor, 98335 Bus: 253-851-5116 6745 Kimball DriveWA STE D Bus:WA 253-851-5116 6745 Kimball Drive STE D Gig Harbor, 98335 NMLS MB #110089, NMLS MLO #1420769 NMLS MB #110089, MLO #1420769 MLO License #MLO-1420769 Gig Harbor, WANMLS 98335 Bus: 253-851-5116 MLO License #MLO-1420769

Bus: 253-851-5116 NMLS MB #110089, NMLS MLO #1420769 MLO License #MLO-1420769 kent@kentcashman.com

It’s easier than you think.

It’s easier thanofyou think. advantages becoming It’sThe easier than you think. The advantages of becoming a homeowner are numerous. Theaadvantages homeowner of arebecoming numerous. And, this may be the perfect time a homeowner arebenumerous. And, this may the perfect time for you to apply applyfor for amortgage mortgage youmay to And,forthis be the aperfect time and get the home you’ve the home for and you get to apply for ayou’ve mortgage always dreamed dreamedofofhaving. having. andalways get the home you’ve ® Bank with a Good Neighbor Bankdreamed with a Good Neighbor®. . always of having. CALL ME TODAY TODAYFOR FOR ® CALL ME Bank with a Good Neighbor . MORE INFORMATION. MORE INFORMATION. CALL ME TODAY FOR MORE INFORMATION.

Some products and services not available in all areas.

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State Farm Bank, F.S.B., Bloomington, IL Some products and services not available in all areas. State Farm Bank, F.S.B., Bloomington, IL

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TABLE OF CONTENTS 27

18 Essentials

The latest tips and trends.

27 Life & Community Great local events and stories.

28 Business Spotlight We’ve got spirit!

34 Business Spotlight For the love of Gig Harbor.

36 Gig Harbor in Focus Annual Gig Harbor Garden Tour.

36 40 Scholar-Athletes of the Year Teagan Horkan & Ryan Gregory.

42 Living Local

Sound sport, diving the area’s hot spots.

48 Hometown Experts The best local businesses.

50 Health & Lifestyle

Tips and informational articles about living

80 Travel & Leisure

Camping redefined across the Northwest.

86 Food & Drink

Discover Gig Harbor’s tastiest destinations.

92 Arts & Entertainment

Calendar of great local events, music and shows.

GigHarborLivingLocal.com

Practical Living

ESSENTIALS by Brett Marlo DeSantis

MOTHER KNOWS BEST BIOMIMICRY: DESIGN BY HUMANITY, NATURE-INSPIRED (Part two of a two-part series) ACCORDING TO AMERICAN DESIGNER, advisor and author William McDonough and his business partner German chemist Michael Braungart, “Taking an eco-effective approach to design might result in an innovation so extreme that it resembles nothing we know, or it might merely show us how to optimize a system already in place. It’s not the solution itself that is necessarily radical but the shift in perspective with which we begin, from the old view of nature as something to be controlled to a stance of engagement.” From mimicking natural forms and processes such as the lotus flower and the gecko (described in last month’s article) onto the third level, mimicking natural ecosystems. We are lucky enough to have two examples of biomimetic architecture that showcase the third level within reach. In Seattle, the Bullitt Center, which opened its doors in 2013, is the world’s greenest

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Join Us for a Free Hearing Check Up Dr. Keith Condict, AuD is the owner of Peninsula Audiology & Hearing Aids. He brings a unique perspective to your ‘check up’ because he is a hearing aid wearer himself. Dr. Condict understands the impact hearing impairment can have on your daily life and he is passionate about helping his patients reconnect with family and friends through better hearing.

Hearing aids

Dr. Keith Condict, AuD

899

start $ at

CONSUMER RATED

serving the community for over 25 years

253-858-3277

3212 50th St. Ct. NW #100 • Gig Harbor, WA

Contact Elle Scott 360.620.1418

The oldest artist’s co-op in Gig Harbor, Washington

ellescott@ymail.com www.ellescott.nerium.com

Patent-Pending

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GigHarborLivingLocal.com

7809 Pioneer Way | Gig Harbor, WA 253.851.5293 f/TheEbbTideArtGallery www.ebbtidegalleryofgifts.com

commercial building designed to behave like a Douglas fir forest. The structure is a closedloop system utilizing sunlight through solar, water from rainfall and heating and cooling via geothermal heat pumps. Imagine buildings that create more energy than they use, purify their own water and waste, and create habitat. They emulate local landscape, climate and culture. Structures that function like trees in the forest working together through an intertwined root system maximizing their inputs and outputs. Thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s how the Bullitt Center was designed, to endure the next 250 years and inspire us to get off the grid. Today, a different sort of biophilic design is taking form in Seattle. Biophilic design, similar to biomimetic design, seeks to reconnect the human relationship into the built environment. The Amazon Spheres will be a wireless wilderness in the midst of the city that consists of three spheres that use overlapping repeated shapes (pentagonal hexecontahedrons to be

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precise) that will contain a plant conservatory. This dome-shaped office building touts the latest workplace design as being “doused in nature.” While we are not all Jeff Bezos who can afford to surround his employees with rare plants from around the world to relax their stress levels and enhance their cognitive abilities, we can soak up the scene and allow ourselves to be inspired by what naturally occurs in our own physiology as we encounter nature-emulated architecture.

ADU* *accessory dwelling unit

In fact, many of today’s hospitals are being designed for patients to encounter nature since it is proven to decrease recovery time.

In fact, many of today’s hospitals are being designed for patients to encounter nature since it is proven to decrease recovery time. Another biomimetic health innovation is in the works to solve the spread of germs. Inspired by the antimicrobial properties of sharks, surfaces for medical devices may soon mimic shark skin!

You name it. tiny house, granny suite, backyard cottage, sidekick-in-law, attached or detached, basement apartment, compact design, small footprint housing, love shack, on-grid-off-grid

Biometric design is critical. There is a way to live on Earth without destroying it. We are a species living among other species. Some believe we are the only species able to assess present trends, predict the future based upon them and then adapt accordingly rather than wait for natural selection.

We build it.

If our communities use nature as model, measure and mentor, we have the potential to mature into a great and resilient species. Let’s design and build communities to resemble the successful natural communities that nature has already perfected. After all, mother knows best.

BIOMETRIC DESIGN IS CRITICAL

253 376 7935 - brettmarlo.com GigHarborLivingLocal.com

LICENSE # BRETTMD892QP

70% Reserved

ESSENTIALS

STAGING YOUR HOME FOR SALE IT DOESN’T HAVE TO BE COMPLICATED BY SARAH FRIESEN, HERON’S KEY GIG HARBOR

FA S T, P R O F I TA B L E S A L E

YOU’VE HIRED a real estate agent, chosen a listing date and the professional stager has just handed you a “To-Do” list that makes your head spin. Remove 50 percent of my closet’s contents?! Hide small appliances?! Paint over the red wall?! “Whaaaaaa….do I have to??!” you ask. Before you throw out the list and head to the beach in protest, consider this:

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Call 1.866.642.0556 or visit HeronsKey.org to learn more and see construction updates.

“Home staging is the art and science of optimizing a home’s appeal to the largest number of potential buyers...it is about selling a lifestyle, and professional home stagers are experts in making subtle or sweeping changes to any property, in order to facilitate a fast and profitable sale,” according to homestaging-home-stager.com. If a fast and profitable sale sounds good, then detach from the emotion of your heart and cling to the logic of the brain. Don’t take staging recommendations personally – it’s all about selling your home! It’s important to know that some homes require only subtle adjustments, while others need major changes. Talk to your agent about what is realistic for your unique situation in light of available time, energy, health, finances and support. De-cluttering: Reduce items on countertops, mantles, dressers and bookshelves in order to create free space. Clearing out: Remove 50 percent of closet

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DE-CLUTTER & REPAIR

contents so it appears spacious; buyers need to believe that their stuff will fit. Re-arranging: Remove or arrange furniture in order to optimize the room from a buyer’s perspective. It might feel awkward to live in a staged home, especially when the couch no longer faces the television. But it’s only temporary! De-personalizing: Remove personal collections and excessive family photos so the buyer can envision their own family in your home. Décor that is unique, bold and overly personalized will detract from the home itself, and that’s why your stager will encourage a neutral color palette. Remember, you’re selling your home, not your stuff. Repairing: Paint the old, scratched front door; fix the leaky faucet; clean the roof. Don’t allow simple neglect to discourage a buyer from making an offer. Based on these tips, talk with your agent about what home staging tasks will get you the highest return on the investment of your time and energy. Some Continuing Care Retirement Communities (CCRC) will provide future residents with the personalized services of a Move-In Coordinator to provide expertise, guidance, referrals and resources to help seniors with simplifying and completing home staging activities. Start as early as possible, so you have time to consider all options.

FINANCIAL FOCUS

B EC O M E A SAV E R

GIVE YOUR CHILDREN THE GIFT OF (FINANCIAL) KNOWLEDGE

Make Your Financial Future a Priority.

ARTICLE PROVIDED BY EDWARD JONES FOR USE BY FINANCIAL ADVISOR ERIN ABRIGO OF GIG HARBOR

IT’S ALMOST Father’s Day. If you’re a dad with young children, you can expect some nice homemade cards and maybe even a baseball cap. But, of course, your greatest reward is spending time with your kids and watching them grow. In return, you can give them a gift – the gift of knowledge. Specifically, in the months and years ahead, teach them the financial skills that can help make their lives easier and more rewarding. For starters, encourage your children to become savers. You can do this in a couple of different ways. First, set a good example. You might explain to your kids that you want to buy a certain item, but you are waiting for it to go on sale. Or, if it’s a particularly big-ticket item, like an ultra high-definition television, tell your children that you simply can’t afford it now, but that you are putting away some money each week until you can. You might even make a chart showing your progress. Another way to help your children become better savers is to provide them with a monetary incentive. To illustrate: For every dollar they put into a “piggy bank” or an actual savings account, tell them you’ll put in, say, 50 cents. They are likely to be pleased and excited by how much faster their money grows with your contribution, and they may well become more motivated to save. Furthermore, you’ll be giving them a valuable lesson for later on in life, when they work for a business that offers to match their contributions to a 401(k) or other retirement plan. Unfortunately, many young people, upon taking on their first “career” jobs, either under-contribute to their retirement plans or ignore them completely – thereby making it more likely that, later on in their working lives, they will have to come up with much bigger sums each year to accumulate enough resources for a comfortable retirement.

Learning to save is certainly important – but children should also learn about investing. To help get your children interested in becoming investors, point out that they can actually own shares of companies with which they are already familiar – the companies that make the games they play, the movies they watch and the food they eat. In fact, you could even simulate the investment process by letting them choose a stock and then follow it. To make the results more tangible, use “play” money to represent an initial investment, and add or subtract to the pile to track the ups and downs of the real stock. You might even explain some of the reasons for the stock’s movements; for example, if you and your child are following the stock of an entertainment company, and that company produces a blockbuster movie that leads to sequels, spinoffs and merchandise tie-ins, you can point out how these developments have pushed up the company’s stock price. You might also explain that while these short-term price movements are interesting – and maybe even fun – to follow, investing is actually a long-term endeavor, and the best investors often hold stocks for many years before selling them. By following these suggestions, you can help your children acquire good financial habits – and seeing them put these skills to good use can provide you with many happy Father’s Days in the future.

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Please call for a FREE review! Individual Retirement Accounts 401k Plans/Rollovers Mutual Funds | Stocks | Bonds Insurance | Annuities

At Edward Jones, our business is helping people find solutions for their long-term financial goals. Let’s work together to design and implement an investment strategy that suits your needs.

Erin R. Abrigo Financial Advisor 5727 Baker Way NW, Suite 205 Gig Harbor, WA 98332

253.858.0052 edwardjones.com/erinabrigo f / edwardjoneserinabrigo l / in/erinabrigo

ESSENTIALS

TAKING A CHANCE DESIGN YOUR FUTURE FULL BY DEBORAH OLIVE

SPECTRUM

W H AT ’ S YO U R G I F T ? THE TIMBER OF MIKE’S VOICE shifted up a notch and his speech was faster than I’d heard in the eight months we’d been working together. Mike was excited.

Through a series of exercises, Mike uncovered what gives him a sense of meaning and fulfillment. He began to think beyond his immediate needs and design a compelling future for his life. He described the usual things: family, health, good work, opportunities to give back to the community and travel. He included two sentences about operating a boat large enough to entertain groups of people.

For 28 years, Mike made a good living selling long term care insurance, but enthusiasm for his work dimmed long ago. He kept doing the work because he was good at it and he was committed to supporting his family. Then the company he worked for was bought out. Under new management, procedures changed dramatically. This is the digital age, and face-to-face appointments were all but replaced by online connections.

Mike enjoyed sailing as a young man, but with his growing family and dedication to work, he put boating aside. It was something he’d done a long time ago, and it felt like a pipe dream. He hesitated to include it now, but he was willing to take a chance.

When I met Mike, he was discouraged and was barely dragging himself to the office. He planned to go into business for himself – to do what he’d done for years – sell long term care insurance. He’d never run his own business, and it was a big step to go out on his own. He wanted every advantage, so he looked for a coach to help develop his business plan and hold him accountable. He hired me because my approach is different. Rather than going straight to the tactical side to develop his business plan, I use a vision-centric approach. Educator and author Stephen Covey says, “Begin with the end in mind,” and that produces excellent long-term results. I asked Mike to not only define his work, but to identify what he would love in a full-spectrum life.

Mike finished his business plan, left his employment and struck out on his own. He made appointments to sell long term care insurance. We worked on prioritization, productivity and systems to support his sales efforts. After owning his business for four months, sales began to steadily grow. Two months later, he had a banner month. He enjoyed his business and his clients and said, “I wish I would have struck out on my own years sooner.” He was having the time of his life. Meanwhile, he began to carve time each week to engage in the world of boating – the place where he felt most alive. Mike was excited because a boat captain in the special cruise business invited him to help run a couple events on his boat each month. Mike

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would have the opportunity to try some of his ideas and possibly find a place in the world of boating and entertaining. He envisioned adding this as a side business. Best of all, his wife was excited about ways she could contribute. This would be a new part of life for the two of them to share.

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LIFE & COMMUNITY HEART AND SOUL

SIPS AND SOUNDS Intimate concert series at Morso Wine Bar. Photo courtesy Tacoma Symphony Orchestra

GIG HARBOR AREA RESIDENTS will have the opportunity soon to kick back at Morso and enjoy a refreshing glass of wine while listening to the symphonic sounds of the Tacoma Symphony Orchestra.

the “Dueling Basses” and will be presenting their take on a variety of styles of music, not only classical, but also arrangements of jazz, rock and pop music on Sunday, June 26 at 7pm.

Morso is hosting a three-concert series featuring chamber groups from the Tacoma Symphony Orchestra beginning this spring. With dates between late May and late July, Morso will host the Tacoma Symphony String Quartet; a Flute, Viola and Harp trio; and the “Dueling Basses” duo featuring the leaders of the Tacoma Symphony’s double bass section.

The concert series will conclude on Sunday, July 24 at 7pm with the Flute, Viola and Harp Trio. They’ll be playing music inspired by nature and Impressionism of the 19th century school of French painters led by Claude Monet. General admission tickets are available by calling 253.530.3463. Morso takes great care to configure their dining room so that all ticketed patrons have an unobstructed view of the artists. Morso is an intimate venue, perfect for listening to these amazing performers in comfort with great food and wine. For more information, visit www.morsowinebar.com. If you have ticket questions please call the box office at 253.591.5894. See you there!

May 22 marks the first date with The Four Seasons, a work of Antonio Vivaldi, presented by the Tacoma Symphony String Quartet, led by violinist and concertmaster Svend Ronning. This starts at 7pm, and we recommend getting your tickets in advance, as space is limited and this will be one amazing musical experience. The double basses are not a part of the traditional string quartet, but Principal Bass Chris Burns and Assistant Principal Anna Jensen comprise

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BusinessSpotlight

WE’VE GOT SPIRIT! Go local and go Cougs! BY PATTY HUTCHENS PHOTOS BY DIANE FETZNER

SCHOOL SPIRIT. It is something many carry with us throughout our lives. And for some like Tracy Hacklin Dennis, it becomes a lifelong passion.

But Dennis attributes Cougarwear’s success to her many loyal customers and the cougar spirit. “WSU fans are very dedicated fans,” said Dennis. “Crimson gets in your blood when you go to WSU or become a fan. And you can never have enough Cougar gear!”

Dennis is a graduate of Washington State University and owner of Cougarwear in Gig Harbor. She opened her store in June 2008 and it is a delight to Cougar fans everywhere. A Washington State University retail and apparel store, Cougarwear carries everything from iPhone cases to barbecue accessories and even the extremely popular Cougar Gold cheese. “The Cougar Gold cheese is our biggest seller,” said Dennis. “We carry nine flavors of the cheese at the store.”

But don’t let the name of the store fool you. At Cougarwear they also carry Seahawks, Sounders and Mariners items with a few things for the Gonzaga, University of Washington, Oregon Ducks and Oregon Beaver fans as well. “We have an eclectic store of randomness,” said Dennis, who adds that Gig Harbor hats, T-shirts, hoodies and sweatshirts are also sold at Cougarwear which is open seven days a week. “We get new items in weekly so our inventory is ever changing.”

Washington State cougar fans flock to Dennis’ store as it is the only store of its kind in the area. While there is a similar store in Seattle, that location is owned by Washington State University and is a bookstore. “I am an alum-owned business with very unique items,” said Dennis. In addition, Dennis owns Harbor Embroidery so a majority of the WSU apparel sold at Cougarwear is made locally.

With a desire to give back to the community that has supported Cougarwear and to share her passion for WSU, Cougarwear awards a $300 scholarship each year to a graduating high school senior with a minimum 3.0 GPA who plans to attend Washington State University. “We are turning our customers’ purchases into financial aid for the next generation of Cougars!” said Dennis.

Originally from Alaska, Dennis attended Washington State University and decided to stay in Washington once she graduated. “My best friend and I did not want to go back to Alaska after college, so we got out a map of Washington and closed our eyes and ended up moving to Olalla after college,” said Dennis who has been in Gig Harbor since 1996. “ It has been a fun adventure ever since. Gig Harbor is as gorgeous as Alaska without the snow and mosquitos – it’s a winwin!”

So whether you’re a Cougar fan, a Seahawks, Sounders or Mariner fan, or looking for the perfect Gig Harbor apparel, stop by Cougarwear. And if you know a Cougar fan that lives outside of Gig Harbor, be sure to tell them about the extensive online store as well!

Cougarwear 7700 Pioneer Way, Suite #202 Gig Harbor, Washington 98335 253.224.1408 Open 7 days a week! www.cougarwear.com

Dennis is also the founder of Anchor Bay Mortgage in Gig Harbor and applies her practices of excellent service and creativity she uses in the mortgage industry with Cougarwear, just one reason it has thrived as a business.

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THE PENINSULA HANDS ON ART PROJECT

GOOD NEWS

By Kellie French. Photos by Michelle Hoag.

ART IS EVERYWHERE. In everyday life, shapes, angles, texture, color and contrast come together to form a visual picture for us. We see it in signs, buildings and playgrounds. Creation of art helps spark the imagination and build the cognitive connections in the brain. Paul Strand, an American photographer and filmmaker said, “The artist’s world is limitless. It can be found anywhere, far from where he lives, or a few feet away. It is always on his doorstep.” Unfortunately, art, music and physical education, which deeply impact the development of a child, are the first programs to be cut in schools when the budget becomes tight. Here is the story of a group of people who saw the need for an arts program in their school. They started small with one school, and the program catapulted and grew to serve elementary schools in the Peninsula School District.

THE UNDENIABLE IMPACT OF ART “THE ARTIST’S WORLD IS LIMITLESS. IT CAN BE FOUND ANYWHERE, FAR FROM WHERE HE LIVES, OR A FEW FEET AWAY. IT IS ALWAYS ON HIS DOORSTEP.” In 2003, a group of parents at Harbor Heights Elementary School met with local artists to discuss starting an arts program. The goal was to give students the opportunity to experience art “hands on” and to fill in the gap where the school did not have an arts specialist. Thirteen years later, founders Marla Morgan and Kit Kuhn are still board members and very involved in the program. It is a passion. From the planning at the initial meeting the Peninsula Hands On Art program was born. The mission of the organization is to “create a community of young artists that embrace the artistic talents of each individual child.” Morgan recalls from the first meeting at her house that “we all felt drawn together to serve the kids and felt a sense of synergy.” Kuhn relates, “I asked four to five professional artists from Gallery Row to come to this meeting. They came and we pitched wanting to bring art to the public elementary schools and would

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they help us? We said we need art projects that the kids can make who are in kindergarten to fifth grade.” Morgan and Kuhn were looking for hands on art projects that would cost under $2 per project / per student, and supplies that they could order and provide for all of the students. Since 2003, over 100,000 projects have been completed in the greater Gig Harbor area. Next year, the organization will be adding an eighth elementary school in the Peninsula School District fulfilling their initial vision of creating an all-district elementary art program. Six senior projects have been completed in the high schools. Students complete four hands-on art projects annually. Each school has an appointed lead “docent” – a volunteer who acts as a guide. The lead docent helps coordinate one parent volunteer from every classroom at their respective school to attend a training session where they do the art project and then present the project to their classroom.

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At this training session, the schools pick up all the supplies needed for the entire school to complete the project. Classroom management and historical information are all provided to enhance the volunteer’s experience. Each project is clearly and efficiently organized. The project is designed to take two hours or less and includes a history and background lesson on the type of art being created. It’s important for every student to have the same opportunity, and experience a combination of 3-D and non 3-D mediums. Initially, auctioning off sculptures was the main fundraising effort that funded the program. When creating the sculptures became too labor intensive, the board began to look for community partners to help fund the program. Gig Harbor surgeon Dr. Justin Piasecki and his wife Jill have been an instrumental community partner in the funding needed to run the program. Since 2011, they have contributed over $60,000 toward the program. Jill stated that meeting Morgan in 2011 and learning about the Hands on Art Program was a “match made in heaven.” They met Morgan at a time when they were looking for some new avenues to give back to the community.

WHEN ASKED WHAT THEIR VISION OF THE FUTURE IS FOR PENINSULA HANDS ON ART, KUHN AND MORGAN EMPHASIZE THEY WOULD LIKE TO HAVE STRONGER FUNCTIONALITY AND LOOK FORWARD TO HAVING THE ENTIRE PENINSULA SCHOOL DISTRICT INVOLVED.

Dr. and Mrs. Piasecki have visited the classes where the art projects are taught to the docents and feel the never ending enthusiasm of the volunteers is a major contributor to the success of the program. Dr. Piasecki’s work as a plastic surgeon requires an artistic element. He states that, “exposing children to art in their formative years encourages thinking skills and problem solving.” He feels art gives us a purpose and contributes to the quality of life. “Will we change the world? No, but we can make it a little bit better,” said Dr. Piasecki. When asked what their vision of the future is for Peninsula Hands On Art, Kuhn and Morgan emphasize they would like to have stronger functionality and look forward to having the entire Peninsula School District involved. They would like to organize and implement systems in which virtually any volunteer can step in and run a part of the project. Designing a program for seniors in high school in which business and managing nonprofit organization concepts would be taught is currently on the discussion table. The Peninsula Hands On Art program is an unstoppable force that has served to fill a gap. Morgan said, “If we are not there, then who is?” Kuhn sums up the project perfectly. “To me we are stewards of this earth; we should make it a better place.” It does not get any better than that.

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BusinessSpotlight

FOR THE LOVE OF GIG HARBOR

Success comes from respect, creative solutions, and honesty BY PATTY HUTCHENS

HOWARD MACKERT and his wife Rhonda have lived in Gig Harbor since November of 1991. In that time, they have grown fond of its friendly, small town atmosphere and breathtaking views of Mt. Rainier and Puget Sound. Formerly a field engineer for General Motors, after only a few months here, Howard announced to Rhonda, “I think I would quit GM before I’d leave Gig Harbor, I love this place!!” Several years later, Howard decided to venture out on his own and he opened the doors of Mackert Automotive for the first time the weekend after September 11, 2001.

they accomplish this goal, utilizing Howard’s broad 40-plus years of experience in the Automotive Industry. It’s just another reason the Mackert Automotive team has established itself as the local automotive experts, known for “out of the box” solutions to everyday challenges. Howard’s two favorite things are cars and people. He admits that some customers are outclassed by their car. That has happened to Howard recently; he purchased a Camaro straight from Callaway “Powerfully Engineered Automobiles”. It’s a 2010 and was their development car, which means they drove it all over the country to all the Barrett Jackson & Mecum auctions and most of the Concourse (high end car displays). The car has amazing performance, braking and handling, plus beautifully functional body modifications. Howard is regularly at The Ridge, a new road racing course in Shelton, where he enjoys taking friends and family for high speed rides around the track.

Mackert Automotive, a general service automotive mechanical repair center, offers the best warranty in town: three years or 36,000 miles on all their services with no fine print, Howard hates fine print on warranties. Because of that warranty, his team strives to find the highest quality parts available for your car. Also as a Napa Auto Care Center, their customers have a three year or 36,000 mile Nationwide Peace of mind warranty. Great for those out of state college kids. Howard has worked hard to build a team of devoted long term employees that share his values and ethics.

Howard, his wife Rhonda and their three dogs love Gig Harbor! Howard is involved with Rotary, the Chamber of Commerce (helped start a business networking group within the Chamber for members), and is currently the president of the Gig Harbor Cruisers Car Club. Any one of these commitments, or the race track, might take Howard away from the business, but he has a very solid team whom he can trust when he’s away.

The team focuses on keeping customers off the roadside waiting for a tow truck (in the rain). Industry research shows that on average any given repair will cost seven times more than that of preventative maintenance. His team will match their recommendations to your specific driving habits and patterns. A car commuting to Seattle and back is going to need a different level of dependability versus one that never crosses the bridge. Our motto is “Expertise you can trust, from people who care”. We try to under promise and over deliver! Customer enthusiasm is our goal.

Mackert Automotive 3416 57th St. NW Gig Harbor, WA 98335 Phone: 253.851.3307 www.mackertautomotive.com

The team has a very simple secret to success: treat each customer the way they like to be treated. “We care for the customer first then their vehicle.” Consulting with customers is a major part of how

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GIG HARBOR IN FOCUS

ANNUAL GIG HARBOR GARDEN TOUR Calms the mind, delights the senses and supports literacy programs around the Sound By Lynette Hoy

PHOTO BY MARK RITCHEY

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THE GIG HARBOR Garden Tour uses the beauty of the Pacific Northwest to support area literacy programs. Proceeds from the Garden Tour are distributed as grants to various schools, and supports literacy programs, such as “Communities in our Schools” and the “Reach Out and Read” program. For most, reading and writing come naturally and is second nature, as a good education was a part of life from the beginning. It lends itself to a glorious experience in being able to learn more easily about what plants work best where and what flowers to plant when. It is the mental and emotional melody that comes with learning how to create masterpieces in a garden that looks like nature just planned it that way. It is apropos that the Garden Tour builds off spring’s creative energy. It’s a time when people begin designing their own oases, preparing for summer, learning from the many masters with which the region is blessed. The place between spring and summer gives lovers of the outdoors and gardens alike many options for learning, creating and living full lives. And what better way to support educational programs by attending the tour and enriching your own life?

exactly this beauty is all around them. Why? Because they cannot read and write efficiently enough, if at all. Adults do not remember when they were taught the connection between words and things and understanding how they all come together. It is therefore fitting that the Annual Gig Harbor Garden Tour now in its 19th year supports literacy programs. Gig Harbor Garden tour proceeds change lives The Gig Harbor Garden Tour is a not-for-profit 501 (c) (3), 100 percent run by volunteers with a passion for making sure children and adults have the opportunity to be a part of the garden magic that comes with the tour – or better yet — that they have a choice. The money generated by the event supports literacy programs and is in keeping with the program’s mission —to promote literacy by supporting educational programs for children and adults in the greater Gig Harbor and Key Peninsula area.

What if you never experienced a garden – or even knew what that meant?

“The 2016 grants will not be given out until this Fall. The amount of money that we give out each year is based on how successful the tour is for the year. The process: We accept applications for a grant in late summer and then we have a committee that reviews the requests and the actual grants are then awarded near the end of the year,” Kathie Wheeler, a committee member, said.

Thousands of men, women and children in our own backyard lack the ability to understand and comprehend fully what

One of these programs previously issued a grant was Communities in Schools. This national organization has

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PHOTO BY KELLY DODSON

an active presence in the Gig Harbor and Key Peninsula area. These social workers and other educational professionals are often the key to the success of students. “Many of the children served by Communities in Schools have a very different view of their backyard—there isn’t one; they did not choose this life, or a lack of mentorship,” Dan Cardinal, president of Communities in Schools, said. Visit the Gig Harbor Garden Tour site to learn more about the literacy programs the funds generated help. Magical pairings of sculpture and furniture in gardens ignite the imagination The artistic quality of the magical pairing of sculptures, even old pieces of unique furniture like an old charming weathered desk with flowers and greenery growing out of the drawers brings a smile to the face, and also ignites ideas. Walking through these gardens on the tour provides an escape that refreshes and sends participants home with more ideas than can be implemented. There will be vendors in some of the gardens throughout the tour providing expertise and little lovelies to take home to create your own masterpiece and other wares to support the creation of one’s own special place for reflection. Vendors make a perfect pairing, like wine and food for the garden tour. Artists will also be showcasing their work: sculptures and other items that can be used

along with greenery to create a garden room of their own. Everything from sculptures for inside the home representing the garden to those for the garden, floral oil painting, blown glass and more. Garden rooms a big trend this year – a special place for reflection The gardens viewed on the tour are not flawlessly sculpted like a perfect square or circle, but blended together to bring about the most beauty our region has to offer with beautiful landscaping and “art-scaping” — joining the beauty of landscaping with art in terms of pairing the landscape being created with art for harmony that calms and lifts and the heart and mind. Where furniture for some makes a garden, for others the more creative side of botanical beauty of garden style and design is all up to the individual. In the Pacific Northwest, the region lends itself to the grand evergreens that often create a massive ceiling providing shade, where others create a lath ceiling to protect themselves and some plants from direct sunlight. The garden tour provides great diversity of expression. Far reaches from farm to present In addition to exploring beautiful and enchanting gardens, tour goers are invited to a FREE presentation on June 24, that is, with a 2016 tour program. This event will begin at 7pm in the Brookside Room of the Best Western Wesley Inn, Gig Harbor. On June 24, Kelly Dodson and Sue Milliken, owners of Far Reaches Farm, Port Townsend, will give a talk entitled: “Passion and

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Plants – Too Much is Never Enough”. Dodson spoke of being a curator of their botanical garden. “We have about 8,000 plants in our collection, and are interested in plants of documented wild origin, which means we know who collected them, we know where they came from, what it grew with, what elevation it’s from, and this allows our plants to have value to botanic gardens and arboretums – public gardens,” said Dodson. “Seed propagation is growing from seeds, which creates new strains altogether, versus creating from cuttings which is an exact replica of the parent (or clone),” she said. Many people come to him for ideas from other nurseries, the home gardener, even people planning weddings. But the biggest shopper is the individual gardener, the art-scaper looking for new ideas. The Gig Harbor Garden Tour offers this and more. One can expect to see a great variety of creative expression, which lends itself to innovation the public can even expect to see generated in public spaces. More people are incorporating garden art into their front yards. “The garden tour opens people’s eyes to their own garden’s potential, to create more beauty around their own living space, style, affordability—the sky is the limit,” Dodson said. Lynette Hoy is the CEO of Firetalker PR. www.firetalkerpr.com.

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WHEN IT COMES TO balancing sports and academics, it seems that Teagan Horkan has the key to success. A senior at Peninsula High School, Teagan has been named a scholar athlete for cross country all four years of high school, a scholar athlete for track his junior and senior years, and a scholar athlete for basketball and soccer his freshman and sophomore years. In addition, he has taken 14 Advanced Placement classes, been named National AP Scholar, holds a 4.0 GPA and is a Commended National Merit Scholar. But Teagan does not take total credit for his success. “My older brother helped me pick out a lot of my classes and guided me towards a high school course load that would make me most successful in college,” shared Teagan. “A lot of my academics have been following in his footsteps.” In the fall, Teagan will attend University of Washington where he will study bioengineering and computer science. His goal is to one day become a surgeon or medical researcher.

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“I find the complexity of being a doctor appealing and challenging,” said Teagan. “But I would also want to be involved in creating and using new technologies.” He credits one of his coaches with providing him with sound advice in sports and life. “Coach Wingard used to say ‘if you can perceive it and you can believe it, you can achieve it,’” said Teagan. “Goals can only be achieved if you think you can achieve them and you have an idea of how you’re going to get there.”

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“WITH A STRONG GROUP of people supporting you, you can achieve unimaginable feats while enjoying yourself at the same time.” That is a life lesson that senior Ryan Gregory has learned through his participation in sports. Ryan was a member of both the cross country and track teams at Gig Harbor High School and has earned eight varsity letters. “I was part of a two-time state champion cross country team and the 2013 national champion team,” said Ryan. “Individually, I have finished as high as sixth place in the 4A State Cross Country Meet, and 13th at the Nike Northwest Regional Meet.” Ryan’s success extends far beyond athletics. He has a 4.0 cumulative GPA and was awarded the AP Scholar Award, WIAA Outstanding Scholastic Award, President’s Education Award for outstanding academic achievement, and was selected as a delegate for the Congress of Future Science and Technology Leaders. In addition, he was also selected as the Narrows Scholar Athlete from Gig Harbor High School for all fall sports in 2015.

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1 item if you mention this ad. Excluding cougar cheese. “Having a good mix between having fun and working hard makes training easy and the sport a lot more enjoyable,” said Ryan about the competition. He will continue to compete in both cross country and track at the University of Washington in the fall where he will pursue a career in engineering. “I enjoyed the science courses I’ve taken and believe that it is the best way I can give back to my community in the future,” said Ryan. And as he moves onto the next phase of his life, he said he is grateful to his parents. “(They) helped me the most to achieve my academic goals by pushing me to be my best self each day,” said Ryan.

Left to Right

1 - Teagan said he will forego varsity sports in college, but will try out for club level Ultimate Frisbee at the University of Washington. Photo by Connie Riggio. 2 - “I never really thought I could run that well so overcoming that mental barrier was the final step in becoming a better runner,” said Teagan. 3 - Ryan said his biggest challenge in sports came when he injured his knee in 2013 and was unable to run for a month. But he overcame that by taking each day as an opportunity to get better. Photo by Michelle Johnson. 4 - Ryan will continue to compete in both cross country and track at the collegiate level. Photo by Kristi Eager.

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Sea walls, underwater parks attract divers to Puget Sound hot spots • By Dan Aznoff IT’S A PLAY ON an age-old question. What came first, an increase in the number of SCUBA divers drawn to the cold waters of the Puget Sound or the discovery of new submerged destinations? The answer is simple if you ask Mike Adams, the manager of the Underwater Sports Shop in Lakewood. The attractions that bring people to the Sound from as far away as Idaho and Montana

have been here for years. It’s the advancement in equipment that makes the attractions of sunken destinations more accessible. “This is not Hawaii or Mexico,” said Adams with a wide grin. “The water is cold. The introduction of dry suits opened the waters of the Puget Sound to divers of every skill level.” SCUBA diving, or use the self-contained

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underwater breathing apparatus, was introduced by conservationist and filmmaker Jacques-Yves Cousteau in 1943. The popularity of the sport has grown exponentially as the equipment has become more reliable and the prices more reasonable. Walt Amidon, the proprietor of the SCUBA Set Adventure Center in Puyallup, said the number of students enrolled in the dive classes at his facility has dropped by 20 to 30 percent over the past several years. But his business been sustained by patronage from local divers and visitors who are attracted to the natural (underwater) beauty of the Puget Sound. Experienced divers boast that the area offers divers unique underwater destinations that are both manmade and natural. The waters of the Sound offer exciting opportunities

for divers of every skill level. Some of the best, according to the experts, are shore dives in established underwater parks. Others require a boat to reach the destination.

the Underwater Park in Edmonds and the abandoned oil transfer dock near the Mukilteo ferry to experience large numbers of marine creatures in a confined area.

Tom Larson has been diving for more than 40 years and logged more than 1,000 dives in the Puget Sound. He said divers come to Western Washington to be part of the phenomenon of exploring a miniature version of the Pacific Ocean within less than 100 feet under the surface.

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“The Puget Sound was formed by glaciers, just like large portions of the ocean floor,” Larson explained. “Diving in the Sound is amazing. You’ll see creatures here that you cannot see up close anywhere else, including some of the largest Pacific octopus in the world and huge moon snails.” Amidon echoed the recommendations of other veteran divers when he recommended

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The Underwater Park in Snohomish County is 27 acres of tide and bottom lands located just north of the Edmonds-Kingston Ferry Landing at the foot of Main Street. The park has been developed over the past 25 years to include sunken vessels in various stages of decay and trails especially for divers. It is one of 10 underwater parks in Washington and by far the most popular, attracting more than 25,000 divers every year. “The park is a marine preserve. Fish and bottom dwellers have figured out it’s a safe place to be,” said Larson. “I’ve seen lingcod in the park that were larger than the dive buddy I was with.”

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Mukilteo, according to Larson, is home to large crabs, sea anemones and tube worms that make their home among the abandoned pilings. In Seattle proper, Alki Beach in West Seattle is famous for its abundance of both red and Pacific octopus that live within a few hundred yards of the shoreline. Other popular spots include the waters adjacent to the bluff in Magnolia and along the shoreline of Redondo Beach in Des Moines. South Sound Dives Options for SCUBA divers in the South Sound are plentiful. Each of the experts highly recommended Titlow Beach near the Tacoma Narrows Bridge. The pilings left from the once-famous Mosquito Fleet have created a home for sea creatures big and small. Larson recommended checking the tide tables before scheduling a dive at Titlow. Divers who are not prepared for the strong currents, he said, could end up in Olympia.

Les Davis Park on Ruston Way is an easily accessible dive site that is protected from the current and is open around the clock. The highlight of this dive is the artificial reef created by old concrete bridge decking that provides protection for fish, crab and other marine organisms. The reef is located at a depth of between 40 and 70 feet. A safe dive for newer enthusiasts is at Sunnyside Park in Tillicum. The lack of protruding objects and the easy entry without strong tides makes it an ideal place to practice techniques before venturing out for deeper adventures. The Day Island Wall across from Fox Island is an incredible wall dive due to the sheer enormity of the sandstone wall. Though relatively flat, it has many small creatures living on the face of the wall itself and wolf eels can frequently be found in caves at the base or in the shelves at the top of the wall. The bottom runs about 85 to 110 feet with most of the wall being to the left of the entry point if entered from shore. The area

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is also home to sea otters and octopi. The wolf eels can have heads as big as humans with strong jaws they use to crush shellfish. Larson said more than one diver has been injured when the eels mistook their fingers for a hot dog.

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Health & Lifestyle E X P E R I M E N TAT I O N

Your Body is a Wonder Lab

The core principles to optimize wellness. By Keira Barr, MD, Better Gym Gig Harbor

AS A PHYSICIAN TRAINED in the scientific method, I spent years immersed in the key elements of conducting experiments: making observations, developing testable predictions, gathering data to test these predictions, and then refining, altering or rejecting the hypotheses to come to a conclusion. Simply put, as scientists we research actions and reactions. While most scientific experiments are conducted in private labs or clinical settings, you, yes, YOU, have VIP access to the most precious lab ever created: your body. That’s right. your body is a living lab in which experiments are conducted on a daily basis. From the foods you eat, to the personal care products you use on your body, to the way

you move, sleep, interact with co-workers, friends and family; you are generating and processing data constantly. The way you feel as a result of these experiences and interactions can guide whether you iterate or pivot your behaviors or repeat them to make them habits. The pressures of modern daily living — busy schedules, demands of work, limited family or personal time, inadequate rest, environmental challenges — all of it can lead to a life thrown out of balance and cause a disturbance of our natural equilibrium. As a result, many of us feel like we are holding on by a single thread on most days and regardless of how we feel, we take the path of least resistance and repeat behaviors that

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The key to experimentation is to appreciate that there is no bad data. You learn something from every experiment. If you feel improvement, take note and expand on that. If you try something and feel terrible, good news, you’ve gained valuable insight enabling you to pivot and try something else.

create habits which adversely affect our overall health. I get it. I’ve done it too. Habit trumps behavior change because it’s easier, it’s familiar, it’s faster. But here’s the thing, habit can be making you sick, exhausted and unpleasant to be around. Nobody likes a grouch. Just sayin’. So now what? It’s time to plan some experiments. There are four core principles that pave the way to experiencing and maintaining optimal wellness which include: 1. Eating well 2. Being active 3. Restorative sleep 4. Stress management The interpretation of each of these principles is highly personalized, as well it should be to fit your lifestyle, however there are basic guidelines which I will outline to increase the likelihood of fruitful experiments. 1. Eating well = eating real food. Translation: Nothing man-made or manufactured. If you can’t pronounce the ingredients on the label, put it back on the shelf. If you don’t know what it is, your body doesn’t either and can’t process it efficiently or effectively. Choose whole foods as they occur in nature, cook with fresh herbs, and have fun eating the colors of the rainbow. 2. Being active = just move. Go for a walk, take a fitness class, put on your favorite song and dance around the room. It doesn’t have to be a formal practice, the key is to just do it.

3. Sleep = precious resource that most of us overlook. Abnormal circadian rhythms have been associated with obesity, diabetes, depression, seasonal affective disorder and immune suppression. Catching some z’s is the best preventative medicine. 4. Stress management = making space for you. Taking time to nourish your passion, connect with friends, spend time with family is not selfish; it’s self-preservation. Make it a priority. So here’s where the magic happens. Put on your virtual lab coat, as a scientist of your own body lab you can research your daily actions and reactions. Observe how you feel: mind, body and skin. As your largest organ, your skin is a window to your underlying health, so take notice of the texture, the turgor and color as you explore the core principles. Take your data points to generate your own questions like: if I replace soda with water will my energy level change? If I dial my bedtime down by an hour every night, how will this impact my productivity? The key to experimentation is to appreciate that there is no bad data. You learn something from every experiment. If you feel improvement, take note and expand on that. If you try something and feel terrible, good news, you’ve gained valuable insight enabling you to pivot and try something else. It’s easy and understandable to get frustrated when you don’t get the results you predicted or hoped for, but don’t give up, simply adjust or refine your method. Enjoy the process!

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SLEEP AND WEIGHT GAIN HOW I LOST THREE POUNDS IN ONE WEEKEND BY RHONDA SAVAGE, DDS A QUESTION FOR YOU: Do you ever short yourself on sleep and then find yourself grabbing food or drinks (especially caffeine) to stay awake? Or do you find yourself working hard all day, doing the things you must, and then you try to go to sleep but you’re wound up like a top? Do you perhaps have an issue with worry, insomnia or clenching and grinding your teeth? I’ve done all of the above and have actually lost weight from better sleep. Research shows that women need seven to eight hours of sleep a night, and men need another hour or more to feel really rested. What really annoys me is that I can gain weight simply by not sleeping enough. That’s because if you don’t sleep well, two hormones, Ghrelin and Leptin, get thrown off kilter as do many more hormones. Do you have stomach acid reflux or heartburn? This can be caused by not getting quality sleep. Do you have high blood pressure or blood sugar level issues? Do you have a history of cardiovascular disease, stroke or arthritis pain? So what’s this all about? Quite frankly, just between you and me, do you ever feel that sleeping and eating can be a hassle? Well, that’s not how we’re designed.

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H E ASLLTEHEYP TEIN PO U G H • Sinus issues • Large tonsils, uvula or broad tonsillar pillars • An overbite or overjet • Weight • The size of your neck • Genetics • Medications or alcohol use Did you know that one out of ten people in the U.S. over the age of 12 are taking antidepressants? Antidepressants can cause a dry mouth, resulting in more decay, plus cause more clenching and grinding. Something else to consider – based on current research, patients taking antidepressants can also have a higher risk of implant failure.

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Weight gain and difficulty with weight loss is an issue if we don’t sleep; hormones and enzymes are regulated at night. You might think you’re sleeping, but your cells are wide awake, cleansing reestablishing your regulatory system.

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There are many reasons why you may not sleep well and suffer from lack of oxygen at night:

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HEALTHY TIDBITS NEWS FOR A HEALTHY LIFESTYLE BY DR. WILL MIHIN

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“There are two ways to get enough. One is to continue to accumulate more and more. The other is to desire less.” ~ G.K. Chesterton

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MENTAL ATTITUDE: Depression Treatment May Reduce Heart Disease Risks. A study that was reported at the American College of Cardiology meeting in April of 2016 involved 7,550 people and found that effectively treating depression can lower a patient’s risks for cardiovascular disease to the level of those who never had depression, reducing their chances of stroke, heart attack, heart failure, and early death The study’s author Dr. Heidi May notes, “Our study shows that prompt, effective treatment of depression appears to improve the risk of poor heart health.” Health Alert: Diabetes Has Quadrupled Worldwide Since 1980. According to a new report in “The Lancet” in April of this year, the number of men and women diagnosed with diabetes around the globe increased from 108 million in 1980 to 422 million in 2014, with the most severe increases noted in low- and middle-income countries. Experts say these findings should sound an alarm for large-scale, effective action that focuses on reducing the health and economic impact of diabetes. Diet: The Good & Bad News About Higher Calcium Intake. According to the National Institutes of Health (NIH) as reported by The Endocrine Society in April 2016, men ages 51 to 70 should consume 1,000 mg of calcium daily, increasing to 1,200 mg at age 71. NIH experts also recommend that women take in 1,200 mg of calcium daily starting at age 51. In a new study, a research team analyzed the calcium intake as well as the heart disease, stroke and fracture risk of 2,199 men and 2,704 women over 50 years of age. The team found that participants who had a higher calcium intake had a significantly lower risk of cardiovascular disease than those with a lower calcium intake; however, the analysis found the risk of fracture or stroke did not significantly decrease among those with a higher calcium intake.

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Exercise: Exercise May Protect You Against Cancer. According to a report in the March 2016 issue of “Cell Metabolism,” exercise may decrease cancer incidence and slow the rate of tumor growth. A new animal-based study found that mice trained to use an exercise wheel had a lower risk of developing cancer, and those that did develop cancer had tumors that grew at a reduced rate compared with the tumors of sedentary mice. The authors of the study add that the anti-cancer benefits of running are most likely linked to the release of adrenaline that leads to the mobilization of specific immune cells that patrol the body and help fight cancer. Alternative Medicine: More Chiropractors, Less Opioids. Based on data collected in 2011, a new study has found an association between both a higher per-capita supply of chiropractors and Medicare spending on chiropractic care and lower opioid prescription use among younger, disabled Medicare beneficiaries. Opioids are a type of narcotic pain medication that can have serious side effects and can lead to abuse and dependence. The finding as reported in the “Journal of Manipulative Physiological Therapeutics” in March of this year, suggests that chiropractic care may help reduce the need for this potentially dangerous class of medication. This information should not be substituted for medical advice. Any and all health care concerns, decisions, and actions should be done through the advice and counsel of a health care professional. Dr. William Mihin is a chiropractic physician. His practice is the North Idaho Spine & Wellness Clinic in Sandpoint, Idaho. He can be reached for questions at: 208.265.2225.

UNDERSTANDING FIBROMYALGIA BY RYANNE LEMON, PTA, ACE PERSONAL TRAINER, CORNERSTONE PHYSICAL THERAPY

HEETA R LT HI YE FT I P G EL SCIENTISTS ESTIMATE that over 5 million Americans over the age of 18 have fibromyalgia. Fibromyalgia is a relatively new diagnosis to the medical community and was first recognized and defined in 1990. It can present itself in many different ways, but is generally classified by one or more symptoms of pain, fatigue, memory and concentration deficits, sleep disorders, exercise difficulties, irritable bowel (IBS), chronic headache, jaw pain (TMJ), and sometimes miscellaneous symptoms such as edema, vertigo, bladder problems or chemical sensitivities. Symptoms are usually chronic, and are usually aggravated by factors such as weather changes, hormonal fluctuations, stress, depression, anxiety, overexertion and lack of sleep. What causes fibromyalgia? There is no real known cause for fibromyalgia, but it is generally understood to be an abnormal reaction to stress in which the body’s central nervous system is on overdrive in response to pain. The cause of this phenomenon is unknown, but may be related to periods of chronic stress or chronic injury in which the body’s natural anti-inflammatory response become out of balance causing disruption in cortisone levels as well as other natural produced pain-relieving hormones. It has been proven in numerous studies that people under high stress will have higher reported pain levels from the same noxious stimuli than people in a relaxed state. Stress makes pain hurt more, and pain causes stress. Lack of sleep also causes stress and higher pain levels, which can contribute to further lack of sleep. This is one reason why it is very difficult to treat fibromyalgia with the symptoms contributing to the cause. Treating fibromyalgia There are many different treatment options for fibromyalgia, with no one treatment being better than another. Usually treatment

effectiveness is personal to the patient, and a combination of treatments may be the best option. Some common treatments include, but are not limited to: Dietary changes - There is a fibromyalgia diet which may vary from person to person, but generally involves the elimination of food that may trigger inflammation such as sugar, caffeine, alcohol, fried foods, red meat, highly processed food and in some cases, gluten. Medication - Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) can help reduce inflammation, but may cause increased GI disturbances. Prescription pain medication, sleep aids, anti depression and anti anxiety medication can also provide patient with relief from symptoms. Physical therapy - Exercises prescribed by a skilled therapist can provide relief for most fibromyalgia patients. Aquatic therapy has been shown to be one of the most effective treatment options for patients with the disease due to the muscle relaxation and anti inflammatory or edema reduction quality of being in water. Acupuncture - If a patient can tolerate the needles, acupuncture has been shown as very effective for pain relief and stress relief, as well as aiding in natural healing. Any other stress relieving technique Meditation, yoga and other exercise, faith based activities, or any other activity that helps an individual with relaxation and reduced anxiety and depression. Fibromyalgia can be a very debilitating illness, and it is important to be patient and understanding with friends or family who may suffer from the disease. Recovery may be slow and difficult, but love and support can foster well-being which helps with the healing process.

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It’s not the good life, it’s the best life!

Welcome home to Harbor Place! From morning to night, you’ve got friends to meet up with, activities to share and a beautiful environment around you. From fine dining, to sunny courtyard lunches, our chef prepares meals meant to be savored. Choose from a range of active living options that complement your personal requirements and lifestyle.

Independent Retirement & Assisted Living Community 1016 29th Street NW Gig Harbor, WA 98335 253.853.3354 HarborPlaceRetirement.com

OUR

DENMARK CHAPTER

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A SMALL TOWN FAMILY’S

ADVENTURES ABROAD

Artcle and photos by Kim Roth I’m a homebody. I like routine and vanilla ice cream. So when my husband’s company offered him a position to work in Denmark for a year, I was hesitant. My need for certainty, however, gave way to an uncharacteristic wonder to see what a year in Denmark, and Europe, could offer my family. For our family’s benefit, my husband and I decided to make the move. In August 2014, we made a spectacle of ourselves as we left our home in Rathdrum, Idaho, bound for Copenhagen, Denmark with five children and 28 pieces of luggage. It wasn’t easy living abroad. Unlike a long vacation, it was everyday life—but in a foreign country. We went to school and work, paid bills, shopped for groceries, dealt with home repairs, and lived the ups and downs every family experiences. We also had unique challenges made more difficult by our being in a foreign country—identity theft, illness, the death of a loved one, homesickness and sending our oldest to college. With the language barrier and our foreign surroundings, these were difficult times. But that foreign aspect is also what made our experiences that year enlightening. Being surrounded by language, food and culture different from our own taught us a great deal. Perhaps it was a combination of our struggles and our increased appreciation for people and places that allowed Denmark to change us. It became a chapter of life we will always savor. The first time I went to our neighborhood grocery store in Denmark, I nearly cried. I walked through a very small produce and meat and cheese section, saw a few shelves of bread and pasta, and some miscellaneous items I couldn’t make sense of because of the Danish labelling. That was it. I thought, “What am I going to feed my family for the next year?” Those initial weeks were tough on my kids, but we

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also had a few laughs as we learned to bake in a Centigrade oven, use a translation app to buy ingredients and live without the pre-made mixes, condensed soups and favorite snacks readily available in the States. Another big part of our adjustment was learning the unwritten rules of bike lanes and navigating bus and train routes. Of course, this kind of Danish street smarts didn’t come without lots of mistakes. We hopped on the wrong train more than once, missed buses and nearly got hit by bikers, but we figured it out. The day I noticed my 7-yearold son look over his shoulder before stepping into the bike lane, I thought “Wow. We’ve come a long way.” Living in Copenhagen, in fact, is pretty doable. The Danes speak very good English, and each person we met seemed interested in us and happy we were living in their country. Several of our neighbors and co-workers invited our family to their homes to share traditional Danish meals and customs. These were some of our favorite times! Getting to know Danish culture through their hospitality, focus on meaningful conversation and appreciation for other people taught us much. Going to school in Denmark was a great opportunity for our kids. Our daughter attended a Danish high school, “Gymnasium,” which taught the International Baccalaureate curriculum in English. Hers was a very rigorous academic experience. She worked hard and benefitted from the global perspective she gained in many subjects. Studying the American Revolution from a British textbook and discussing current world events in classrooms where vast cultural diversity was represented proved to be a fantastic education for her.

TOLERANCE Through these experiences, we also learned much about each other. Travel is a lot of work and takes a certain amount of tolerance when in a large group—particularly one like ours that spanned ages from 40 to 7 years old.

Our boys attended an international school which exposed them to people from all over the world. Their classmates and teachers were from Nepal, Lithuania, Russia, Zimbabwe, Ukraine, Scotland and many other countries. Most of the students were fluent in several languages and many wore traditional clothing from their homelands. Playing games on the playground and even seeing what peers brought for lunch was educational. Yet it was so natural for these children to play together! They gave no thought to political, economic or religious differences. They simply enjoyed each other. Fieldtrips were a favorite part of school for our kids. Fieldtrips are considered an important part of education in Denmark. So when our son studied about the late King of Denmark, Christian IV, he and his class rode a train into Copenhagen to visit a historical museum and castle where the king once lived. When our daughter’s history class studied World War II, they went on a three-day field trip to Berlin, Germany. Our children also attended field trips across Denmark and to London and Sweden.

Learning Danish was a slow, difficult process. My husband and I ultimately learned a few important phrases, how to pay bills in Danish, how to read train routes and food labels, but that was about it. Our kids did better. They learned Danish in school and also practiced with friends at church and on sports teams. Our Danish friends appreciated every effort we made, though. One Sunday in a church class my son asked, in Danish, to sing a certain song. The teacher was delighted and exclaimed to me, “He said it in Danish!” One of my favorite aspects of living in Denmark was being able to take our children to see a little of the world. Travel is significantly less expensive and, in fact, a way of life in Denmark. The Danish work week is a true 37 hours and five weeks of paid vacation is standard. With this, it has developed a culture where travel is a priority. We readily welcomed this piece of Danish culture into our own and traveled as much as possible. In addition to the family field trips we made to

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see historic castles, museums, jousting matches and natural wonders within Denmark, we also visited several nearby countries. We made a two-week road trip through Germany, France, Belgium and The Netherlands. All seven of us and our luggage squished into a tiny Europeansized car and took in as many sites and as much culture and traditional foods as we could. We also spent weekends exploring Sweden, Norway and London. We topped it all off with a ski trip to Austria and a week of summer vacationing in Tuscany, Italy. It was so rewarding to explore these cultures and places with our children! I loved seeing them grow in their appreciation for things that are different. I enjoyed watching them develop travel smarts—getting in and

04 Focus on:

Local Summer Camps

Curious by Nature School (Greater Gig Harbor Foundation) 7191 Wagner Way, Suite 101 • Gig Harbor, WA 98335 253.858.5064 • 253.514.6338 curiousbynature@gigharborfoundation.org gigharborfoundation.org/summer-camp Curious by Nature offers weekly day camps each with a different theme. Camps start in July with “Pixies and Pirates” (July 11 to 14) where campers will make maps, go treasure hunting and explore their imaginations! July 18 to 21 is “Nature’s Market” where kids will learn about nature and gardening. Learn all about polymers, dinosaurs and volcanoes during “Mad Science” week (July 25 to 28). August 1 to 4 is “Nature’s Art” where campers will hear from local artisans about their crafts. During August 8 to 11, “Something Fishy” will teach kids about the watershed and salmon. Last, August 15 to 18, is “NM Native Traditions” which will focus on teaching campers about the traditions of the Native American tribes of the Pacific Northwest.

out of airports, navigating train routes and buying food in new cities where we didn’t speak the language. I loved seeing them grow accustomed to hearing other languages other than English and being with people outside of our own culture. Interacting with locals in these places made for some charming memories—like the chocolatier in Belgium who had us all laughing as he guided us through what he claimed would be our first taste of real chocolate. Our children’s education in global awareness and acceptance was beyond what we could have hoped for. Through these experiences, we also learned much about each other. Travel is a lot of

work and takes a certain amount of tolerance when in a large group—particularly one like ours that spanned ages from 40 to 7 years old. There is so much waiting, walking, confusion, decision-making and sometimes disappointment involved in travel. It is certainly not always a vacation. I have been tired enough to sleep on a stone step, sit down on a crowded escalator, and pay $5 for a small bottle of water. Yet, travel for us was a process of learning to appreciate not only new cultures, but one another as well. We took time to play tag with my 7 - year-old at a playground below the steps to the Sacre Coeur in Paris, and he patiently waited for Dad to read every plaque at the Resistance

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Tashunka 25634 NE 80th Street; Redmond, WA, 98053 ramazzola@aol.com tashunkallc.org Tashunka is for horse lovers and those aspiring to be. Their programs offer instruction for children and adults of all ages, but their summer camp specializes in instructing children ages 3 through 10 years of age. Many riders at Tashunka have overcome the fear of working with a horse as well as learned how to compete. Tashunka promises to give campers a solid foundation of horsemanship and give your child the spirit of the outdoors enthusiast!

05 How thrilled I was to see that his exposure to other countries and people had not come at the expense of gratitude for his own! In fact, this exposure had strengthened his appreciation.

GRATITUDE

Museum in Amsterdam. By the end of our year exploring Europe, we were changed travelers. Amidst our travels, of course, were moments of true vacationing. Getting away from the crowds to admire the work of street artists while savoring every last bite of a fresh Parisian crepe, chasing waves on the Italian Riviera, drinking hot chocolate atop the Kitzbühel ski resort while taking in the stunning view of the surrounding Austrian Alps are just a few examples of the breath-taking moments

of real vacationing we will always savor. In these moments, we had to consciously pause to absorb it all—the people, the language, the architecture, the food and the nature. In both grand and simple ways, these moments presented themselves. What a remarkable opportunity to not only teach, but show our children that the world and its people are amazing! Danes are considered to be some of the happiest people in the world. It’s hard to

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articulate exactly why this is. But when you’re with them, you feel it. Danes have a real contentedness about them. For example, a great day for a Dane is to leave work on time, bicycle home, and spend a cozy evening eating and talking with family. Danes call this “hygge” (pronounced hewgga). Hygge is a word that doesn’t truly translate into English. It means cozy, intimate, meaningful time spent together with family and friends. Danes seek out and create hygge. They strive for it during the dark winter months by lighting candles, chatting in

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06 front of the fireplace, or strolling with friends through a Christmas market. In the summer, hygge involves picnicking and enjoying each other at parks and beaches. Nothing more is required for Danes to truly enjoy themselves. No entertainment or schedule is needed. Hygge is neither expensive nor elaborate. It’s this appreciation for each other and simple moments shared that gives Danes happiness. I love this about them. The hardest part of our time in Denmark was saying goodbye. Despite the challenges and homesickness, we were all sad to leave. I was glad we were sad, though. It meant we had opened our hearts to Denmark and made it a second home. What made it hard to leave was the people. We learned a lot from them. We learned the value of balance in life. We were inspired by how they are driven−not by being entertained or competitive−but by contentedness. The Danes taught us this, and it has changed us.

LIVING

We’re happy to have returned home to North Idaho, though. Living abroad taught us to see the good in our own country and culture with greater appreciation. When we returned, my youngest realized he had forgotten the Pledge of Allegiance. I was so pleased to witness his determination to relearn it. It was important to him that he know this statement of allegiance to his country. How thrilled I was to see that his exposure to other countries and people had not come at the expense of gratitude for his own! In fact, this exposure had strengthened his appreciation. We’ll forever be grateful for this Danish chapter of our lives. Life is full of experiences you live for only a short while but remember for a lifetime. This is Denmark for us.

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ABROAD

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ROUTE 101

Trolley service has returned to Gig Harbor! June 2nd - September 5th For details visit piercetransit.org or call 253.581.8000 50¢ a Ride or Just $1 for All Day!

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Cool Summer Gear By Colin Anderson

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Camping Gear

Away from the city.

What to bring camping really depends upon how long and how far out youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re going. If youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re spending the night at a drive-up campsite, pack all you can fit in your car. If your destination is the backcountry, keeping weight at a minimum is critical. No matter where you camp, be sure to include on your checklist the following: tent, sleeping bag, light source, fire starter, warm clothing, sunscreen, first aid kit, knife and plenty of food and water. Camp stoves are great for feeding big groups, while backpackers enjoy the convenience and practicality of lightweight and foldable camp cookware.

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Hiking Gear Hike and be happy. Hiking is all about your feet so make sure your boots fit properly. Once you have your boots fitted, choose a pack that’s right for you, something small and lightweight for short hikes and something a bit larger that can hold additional food, water, maps and safety equipment if you plan on being out all day. Trekking poles will help take the pressure off your legs on steeper climbs, and if you have to traverse rock faces on the trail, don’t forget a rope and even a pair of gloves if your fingers aren’t used to rock climbing.

Biking Gear Keep calm and bike on. Biking trails can vary greatly from silky smooth pavement to rough, washed out paths, and your bike should match what you ride most often. Your local dealer will help you find the best make depending on where you ride most. Clips mounted on the handle bars allow you to lock in your phone or global positioning system (GPS) so you’ll always know where you’re going. Mounts for a GoPro camera also give you a cool recap of your ride from your own perspective. Never forget the helmet no matter what surface you are riding, and cycling gloves will help keep your hands blister free.

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Mountain

Climbing Gear

It’s within your reach. Getting up a rock face using your own brute strength is a passion for many in the west. Each climber will tell you the key to a great day climbing is a comfortable and sturdy harness, trustworthy safety rope and a good partner. It’s never a good idea to go cheap when you’re dangling from the side of a cliff. Rocks and debris can tumble down at anytime so a helmet is also a strong recommendation. Kids can learn at climbing gyms where all the safety equipment is already in place.

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ENJOY YOUR STAY.

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Everyone loves a day on the water so while you’re out there why not try reeling in a few fish as well. Trolling or bobber fishing makes it easy on kids, while more advanced fishermen will look at casting banks, docks and weed lines. If trout is your goal, then give fly-fishing a serious try. While it might be difficult at first, landing a fish on a fly rod is a really cool accomplishment. Catch and release practices help make fisheries better for the next generation, so treat the fish with as little harm as possible before releasing.

Fishing Gear Wishin’ you was fishin’.

Summer Every summer Clothing

has a story.

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Lightweight and breathable is the key to staying cool when the temperatures hit their peak during summer. Manufacturers are creating all kinds of sweat-wicking and fast-drying fabrics to keep us cool but also looking cool as well. A well-crafted pair of sandals is worth the investment, especially if you plan on walking in them all day. Light colors reflect sunlight better than dark so keep that in mind when choosing your next beach outfit. Don’t forget to swing by the swimsuit racks for the latest trends as well.

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Our Typical Northwest Summer... Outdoor adventure for a lifetime of weeks and weekends By Mike McAuliffe We’re two hours out of Anacortes, cruising along the rugged rocky shore of San Juan Island. I’m relaxing on the deck—lulled by the warm August afternoon sun and the water slapping a rhythmic beat on the hull of the MV Mystic Sea. My daydream ends abruptly when Captain Monte announces over the ship’s speakers, “Whales off the port side!”

PHOTOS BY MIKE MCAULIFFE

I spring to the railing and spot three large black dorsal fins knifing through the Puget Sound waters. The tallest triangular fin is the telltale signature of a 10,000-pound male Orca, swimming with two smaller females. Another tiny fin breaks the water, trailing behind. A baby Orca calf! The whales cruise effortlessly, churning the water into white foam. The tops of their huge ebony bodies with stark white oval eye patches glide above the surface. A menagerie of other wildlife also makes an appearance—massive Humpback whales, Harbor porpoises, sunning seals and sea lions, Bald Eagles and bobbing Rhinoceros Auklets. The amazing day is a snapshot of a typical Pacific Northwest summer day of outdoor adventure with water, wilderness and wildlife. The region’s long winters of short gray rainy days are challenging—not “less than four hours of daylight” bad like Alaska winters, but bad enough. The payoff is lengthy sunny summer days as a backdrop for relaxation and adventure in unique waters like Puget Sound, and Idaho’s

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deep glassy lakes, and on the wild peaks and trails of mountains like the “American Alps,” Washington’s rugged North Cascades. Whether you have weeks of free time or just a Northwest weekend, numerous outdoor activities are always nearby. A Week on the Lake If you have a week, better yet several weeks, to enjoy the Northwest summer, there’s nowhere better than North Idaho’s trifecta of large, deep, clear lakes—Lake Pend Oreille, Lake Coeur d’Alene and Priest Lake. The lakes’ campgrounds, cabins and resorts have hosted generations of vacationers who flock back each year for time with family and friends, relaxation, sun and water activities. Start your day skiing on early morning water that’s smooth as a plate-glass window, followed by lunch and a nap in the hot sun before cooling off with a mid-day swim. Dinner could be a floating party on a pontoon boat. Rental companies in Sandpoint, Coeur d’Alene and Priest Lake’s marinas take care of your watercraft needs, including ski boats, fishing boats, pontoon boats, paddleboards, kayaks and jet skis. While there aren’t any whales in these waters, there are plenty of other big fish—a record

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42-pound salmon was caught in Lake Coeur d’Alene. So bring your fishing gear, drop a line in the lake, and reel in a trout, bass or salmon for the evening barbecue. Give fly fishing a try on a nearby river, or time permitting, take a road trip for a world-class fly fishing experience on the Snake River or Henry’s Fork in Southeast Idaho. If you get tired of floating on your air mattress, there’s also plenty of adventure out of the water. Hit the trail for hiking or mountain biking at Mineral Point Trail #82 or Gold Hill Trail, or hit some golf balls at the Coeur d’Alene Resort and challenge their famous 14th hole floating green. Wild Weekends If you don’t have a week to lounge at the lake, towns on Puget Sound like Edmonds and Gig Harbor are uniquely located for weekend mini-vacations with a day of saltwater adventure and a day in Washington’s wilderness. In the North Sound, start the weekend with a Friday night feast of alder planked salmon, steaming clam chowder and a cold local microbrew on the outdoor patio at Anthony’s Beach Café in Edmonds, as the rosy sun sets behind the Olympic Mountains. On Saturday, the weekend’s water day, sail on an Orca whale watch tour— either a half-day tour from Edmonds on the speedy Chilkat Express hydrofoil, or a more leisurely all-day charter on the Mystic Sea out of Anacortes. Other options for water fun include fishing charters and boat rentals at the Edmonds marina, or a ferry ride to Kingston to explore the Kitsap and Olympic peninsulas.

PHOTO BY LISA TURNER

For Sunday’s wilderness day, experience one of Washington’s best views at Artist Point in the “American Alps.” A scenic route on the Mt. Baker Highway winds through evergreens and maples, and ends with panoramic views of green alpine lakes, jagged North Cascades peaks, and the looming cone of Mt. Baker, the northernmost Cascade volcano. On the way up, stop at Picture Lake to snap an iconic photo of Mt. Shuksan reflected in the lake. Bring your day pack, boots and water bottle for a walk or hike, but even if you don’t leave the parking lot, the view alone is worth the drive. Pitch your tent at the Douglas Fir and Silver Fir campgrounds on the Mt. Baker highway to extend your trip for more than just the day. A similar South Sound weekend mini-vacation might begin with a Friday night dinner at the Tides Tavern in Gig Harbor. Take a harbor tour from Tacoma or Gig Harbor for Saturday’s water fun, and then on Sunday visit the colorful wildflower meadows at Paradise in Mount Rainier National Park for a day hike. These are just a few examples of countless outdoor adventures to fill a lifetime of Northwest summer weeks and weekends.

PHOTO BY LISA TURNER

Michael McAuliffe is a freelance writer and photographer living in Edmonds. He can be contacted via his website at www.mcmikephoto.com.

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Madison, WInot 53718, 1-877-699-0353. All rights **This does constitute financial planning reserved. Fairway is not is not affiliated with advice. Please a financial planner *Must in yourconsult home and pay taxes, any live government agencies. These materials are *Must livespecific in your home and pay taxes, regarding your retirement insurance maintenance. not fromand HUD or FHA and were notplan. approved

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253.273.8524 julie@livinglocal360.com

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Madison, WI 53718, 1-877-699-0353. All rights considered income and will not affect Social Copyright©2016 Independent Mortgage reserved. Fairway is Fairway not is not affiliated with Copyright©2016 Fairway Independent Security or Medicare benefits. Your monthly Corporation (“Fairway”) NMLS#2289. 4801 S. Biltmore any government These materials are Mortgage agencies. Corporation reverse advances may (“Fairway”) affect your Lane,mortgage Madison, WI 53718, 1-877-699-0353. All rights not from HUD or FHA andS. were not approved NMLS#2289. 4801 Biltmore Lane, eligibility for Fairway some other Consult reserved. is not programs. is not affiliated with any Madison, WI 1-877-699-0353. All rights bya HUD or53718, a These government agency. Reverse localagencies. program office or are your to FHA government materials not attorney from HUD or reserved. is if, not is required affiliated withReverse mortgage borrowers are tomortgage obtain an determine how, or monthly reverse and were not Fairway approved by HUD or anot government agency. any government agencies. These materials are payments might affect specific situation. eligibility certificate byyour counseling mortgage borrowers are required to receiving obtain an eligibility certificate from HUD ora FHA and with were approved bynot receiving counseling sessions a not HUD-approved agency. Owners are still responsible for property taxes, sessions with HUD-approved agency. Must Must be least years old. Loan proceeds not considered by HUD or 62 a62 government agency. Reverse and maintenance. This is are not anare offer beinsurance, at atleast years old. Loan proceeds not income and will not an affect Social Security orallobtain Medicare benefits. mortgage borrowers are required to an to enter into agreement. customers considered income and willNot not affect Social Your monthly reverse mortgage advances may affect your eligibility eligibility certificate by receiving counseling will qualify. rates and Your programs are Security or Information, Medicare benefits. monthly for some other Consult a local agency. program office sessions a HUD-approved Mustor your subjectwith toprograms. change without notice. Allaffect products reverse mortgage maymortgage your attorney to determine how, old. oradvances if, monthly reverse payments beare at least 62 years Loan not subject to credit and proceeds property are approval. might affect your specific situation. Owners are still responsible eligibility for some other Consultfor considered income and will programs. not affect Social Other restrictions and limitations may apply. property taxes,program insurance, and maintenance. This attorney is not an offer a local office or your toto Security or Medicare benefits. Your monthly enter into an agreement. customersreverse will qualify. Information, determine how, orNot if,allmonthly mortgage reverse mortgage advances may affect rates and programs are subject to change without notice.your All products payments might affect specificrestrictions situation. eligibility some other your programs. are subject tofor credit and property approval. OtherConsult and are still responsible for attorney property to taxes, aOwners local may program office or your limitations apply. insurance, and maintenance. This is not an offer determine how, or if, monthly reverse mortgage payments mightanaffect your specific to enter into agreement. Not allsituation. customers Owners are still responsiblerates for property taxes, are will qualify. Information, and programs insurance, maintenance. is notAll anproducts offer subject toand change withoutThis notice. to into an all customers areenter subject to agreement. credit andNot property approval. will qualify. Information, rates and programs are Other restrictions and limitations may apply. subject to change without notice. All products

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Epic

Water Gear By Jani Gonzalez

The sun is out and the water beckons us. No matter what your age, there is something for EVERYONE TO ENJOY. From stand-up paddleboarding to kayaking to tubing, wakeboarding and waterskiing, get out and enjoy all that our area water has to offer. GigHarborLivingLocal.com

Come celebrate life on the water. $20 PER STANDARD TICKET • Reserved seat for July 1 game • Ball Park Meal • ‘The Dirt’ game program • Opportunity to participate in exclusive pre-game events & post-game fireworks T A C O M A

R A I N I E R S

FRI

vs.

JULY

7:00 PM L A S

Board the only authentic Venetian gondola in the Pacific Northwest and let the stress melt away.

V E G A S

5 1 ’ S

(253) 514-6338 TBSG@gigharborfoundation.org

www.tbsg-takeover.eventbrite.com

$15 TBSG Tailgate Party BBQ

$100 VIP Experience Ticket

(5pm-6:30pm) All Standard (limited to 20) Ticket plus: All-inclusive VIP package • Admission to Tailgate includes: Party BBQ • Private tour of • Grillins, snacks & beverage Cheney Stadium of choice (beer, wine, • game T A C O M A R A I Free N I E customized R S soft drinks) day T-shirt • Commemorative • Standard Ticket 12 oz. cup vs. prime seating • Other Tailgate • 7:00 Tailgate Party BBQ PM pre-game festivities • Opportunity to participate L A S V E G A S 5 1 ’ S • Must be 21+, in all pre-post-game (253) 514-6338 ID is requiredTBSG@gigharborfoundation.org activities

FRI

JULY

www.tbsg-takeover.eventbrite.com

Let Gig Harbor’s beauty be the backdrop of your celebration. Visit GigHarborGondola.com for more information. John Synco

Gig Harbor Marina & Boatyard

3117 Harborview Drive Gig Harbor, Washington 253.432.0052

gigharborgondola@gmail.com f Gig Harbor Gondola

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Tubing

Gear

Tubing can be done leisurely, but most seem to prefer to zoom about the lake while being towed. As with any sport, it’s important to have the right gear. For tubing, you need a towable tube, heavy duty towing cables, an air pump and the right life jacket. Make sure to inspect the rope for any fraying before each use. Keep an air pump handy in case you’re out on the water and your tube needs air. When shopping for a life jacket, tell the shop owner what kind of water you’ll be tubing in (open water, lake, river, etc.) to get the right kind of jacket. Last, wear sunblock since you’ll be exposed to the sun for the day!

Wakesurfing Gear

Photo by Lisa Turner.

Living near water means having a multitude of water sports available. Now is the time to spend outdoors and get a little closer to nature. Wakesurfing has fast become a hot trend in water sports. Surfers are towed behind a boat outfitted to create an “endless wave” in its wake. Do a little research or visit a local marine shop as to how to outfit your boat safely. The experts advise to use a boat with a bottom propeller. Most wakeboarding manufacturers make surfing wakeboards, ropes, vests and helmets. Know your equipment and make sure it’s made for the sport. Also read up on any related laws about it.

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Sailing Gear

To safely appreciate sailing on the water, one must be fully prepared. Have a checklist and adjust it according to the time of day when you will be sailing. Some of the basic necessities are having proper charts, a float plan and notes on the dayâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s tides and sunset. Make sure you have sharpened knives, rigging knives and a multipurpose tool. For emergencies, have a first aid kit, type III life vests (with whistles), a flare gun or hand-held flares, a spotlight and a flashlight. Keep water and food on hand and a change of clothing. Other equipment includes a radar reflector, strobes for the life vests, a spare winch and vise-grips. You also may need wire cutters, duct tape, nylon and dacron lines and bungee cords. Check with your state laws about whether you need an inspection.

Padd leboard Gear Paddleboarding offers a strong workout while enjoying the serenity of water at your own pace. For beginners, a wider, longer board is preferable for stability and balance. Boards come in a variety of lengths, widths and thicknesses. Paddles too have their own varieties and constructions. Boarders are advised to select a paddle 6 to 10 inches above their height. You will also need a leash and a life vest should you fall off. There are a number of accessories specially designed for transporting your board, such as bags, handles and car racks.

GigHarborLivingLocal.com

TRAVEL & LEISURE

GLAMPING CAMPING REDEFINED ACROSS THE WEST

BY COLIN ANDERSON

t’s summer and that means vacation time for most couples and families. While some travel across the country visiting big cities for shopping, historical tours, or national monuments, many in our neck of the woods head outside to enjoy hiking, biking, fishing, boating, swimming and all the other reasons we choose to call the west home. We grab the tent, sleeping bags, beat up old clothes, hot dogs and of course, the ingredients for s’mores, and get ready for a few back-breaking nights in a cold tent − or do we? A recent demand for the comforts of home while out in the woods is changing the way we see camping. Traditionalists scoff at the idea of actual beds and hot water showers in the wilderness, but “glamping” or glamorous camping is getting those who have always refused the sleeping bag and cold ground actually out in the woods and back in touch with nature. While the term “glamping” typically refers to a certain type of opulent tent camping, I see the term differently, with many levels of making your outdoor experience more than just a bare bones backpack or pulling into a roadside campground crammed next to others. You’ll

be surprised at what people are willing to pay for luxury but also at how affordable some of the options you have available to you as well. The RV/Camper This is the original glamping device getting you off the ground and into a warm, secure space. Today’s tow-behind models are made of much lighter materials than those of yesteryear, letting you tow them behind something as small as a Subaru Outback. There is also a popular movement sweeping the country of completely renovating old and worn out trailers. As long as they are structurally sound, designers are finding creative ways to maximize the small indoor space and turning them into minimobile apartments. Something as easy as reupholstering benches can really bring an old camper back to life. If you’re not looking to own, renting an RV can be something fun for the whole family. Cruise America is probably the most widely known, but there are often local choices right in your community as well. Renting an RV puts you in control of your completely mobile campsite and is ideal if you plan on visiting

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multiple sites over the course of a week or twoweek long trip. With most, you won’t need a special driving license, but plan on spending several hundred dollars per week on a rental as well as fuel costs. For those at retirement age, motor homes have never been more luxurious, and they should be as some models cost more than traditional homes. Often as long as a Greyhound bus, these chariots of the road can include everything from a king-sized bed, washer/dryer and soaking tub to expandable outdoor patio space with flat screen TVs mounted for outdoor viewing. New technology allows owners to keep both internet and satellite TV signals even while in motion. Imagine spending your retirement seeing the entire country while still enjoying the comforts of home. Our National Parks look for campground hosts throughout the year allowing you to park your RV for free in exchange for helping to run the campground. Levels of Glamping As the industry continues to expand, sites are offering up all levels of experience from rugged to spoiled rotten. While there are dozens of options across the west, here are just a few to give you an idea on what to expect. Fire Lookouts While not the most glamorous of accommodations, what you are getting is some of the most spectacular scenery in the country. Before planes

A RECENT DEMAND FOR THE COMFORTS OF HOME WHILE OUT IN THE WOODS IS CHANGING THE WAY WE DO CAMPING.

relax...

DPO N A S

vacation home specialists

www.GoSandpoint.com

JULY SPECIAL RENT 5 NIGHTS AND THE 5TH IS FREE! 208.946.0901 | steve@gosandpoint.com | f/gosandpoint GigHarborLivingLocal.com

INT

DPO N A S

INT

ITâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S COVERED

and infrared radar detected wildfires, it was the job of the Fire Lookout. This person manned an often isolated cabin on the highest peaks in the designated mountain range and radioed any reports of smoke sightings. Today, you can step back in time and camp inside many of the now retired Fire Lookouts throughout the west. The majority can be found in California, Idaho and Montana, but there are some available in Washington and Oregon as well. While not often advertised, these are extremely popular with some reservations even going into a lottery system. You probably won’t land a reservation this summer, but it’s never too early to start planning for summer 2017! Basic Glamping: Sweetwater Washington

Tipi,

Bainbridge

Island,

Located on a family farm and backed up to National Forest, this is a one-space glamping location giving you privacy of being alone but also not far from the city. Inside the tipi is a queen-sized memory foam bed, mini-fridge, and electrical outlets. There is a composting toilet and heated shower as well. From $175/ night. Huckleberry Tent and Breakfast, Clark Fork, Idaho Three distinct sites dot this unique homestead in far Northern Idaho near the Montana border. You won’t find power outlets here, but you will find canvas walled tents and queensized beds, screened in kitchen area with hand pump water and a propane stove and outdoor shower and outhouse. Breakfast is served by your hosts each morning. On-site trails lead

TODAY, YOU CAN STEP BACK IN TIME AND CAMP INSIDE MANY OF THE NOW RETIRED FIRE LOOKOUTS THROUGHOUT THE WEST. WHILE NOT OFTEN ADVERTISED, THESE ARE EXTREMELY POPULAR WITH SOME RESERVATIONS EVEN GOING INTO A LOTTERY SYSTEM.

GigHarborLivingLocal.com

you to wonders to explore, but you’re also close enough to drive to local towns and landmarks. From $100/night Full Scale Glamping Panacea at the Canyon, Terrebonne, Oregon On 40 acres, this resort is surrounded by high desert country but provides five-star amenities. A full scale spa, pool, yoga and reiki classes encourage guests to completely relax in a natural setting. Your tent includes a king-sized bed with a plush comforter, en-suite bathroom, hardwood floors, and local organic bathroom products. All meals are included as well as a nightly foot bath with a turndown service. Guests can also go wine tasting, rock climbing or ride in a hot air balloon. From $700/night double occupancy.

Tuesday-Friday 10am-5:30pm Saturday 11am-4pm

For all your Custom Framing Needs! No job is too big or too small!

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Beth Bennett • 253.851.3440

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We Specialize In:

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HUCKLEBERRY TENT AND BREAKFAST, CLARK FORK, ID

Paws Up, Greenough, Montana

per night for this one-of-a-kind experience.

This is a place for those looking for a true Montana wilderness experience and don’t have a problem spending for it. This 37,000 acre ranch sits on some of the most beautiful scenery in the west. Glamping tents are up to 975 square feet and include air conditioning, slate showers, heated floors, cell and internet service, and your own camping cook and butler. Guided tours include ATVs, horseback, shooting, fly fishing, and ranching. During summer months a family of four staying in a two-bedroom tent will fork out around $2,500

Glamping can be as simple as getting you up off the ground or as complex as a five-star resort and across the west there is just about everything in between. The bottom line is you’ll find some place beautiful and comfortable within your budget. If the thought of sleeping on the ground, no hot shower, and swatting mosquitoes doesn’t appeal to you then perhaps glamping will. Getting outside and away from our daily lives in the city even for a weekend can help relieve stress and bring you closer to family or a loved one. Being comfortable is

GigHarborLivingLocal.com

important to many, and glamping offers most of the comforts of home while being smack dab in the middle of the wilderness. There are no more excuses for those who say they don’t enjoy camping. You might still get a little dirty and have to swat a few bugs, but a glamping trip will keep you comfortable while enjoying the natural beauty around us.

GigHarborLivingLocal.com

Food & Drink YOUR GUIDE TO LOCAL EATS

MOCTEZUMA’S MEXICAN RESTAURANT Authentic Mexican Food and Award Winning Margaritas!

Moctezuma’s Mexican Restaurant 4628 Pt. Fosdick Drive NW Gig Harbor, WA 253.851.8464 $$

GigHarborLivingLocal.com

food, wine & beer

waterfront resta u ra nt with a rt ga llery

enjoy lunch, happy hour & dinner

2014 OPEN TABLE TOP 100

BEST WINE LIST in America as voted by Open Table Diners

amazing salads · filet mignon fresh fish · great wines · happy hour rotating craft beers · patio seating live entertainment · 21+ tuesday - thursday · 4pm to 10pm friday & saturday · noon to midnight sunday · 2pm to 9pm 9014 Peacock Hill Ave. at N. Harborview Dr. at the head of the bay

253.530.DINE (3463)

online reservations at

GigHarborLivingLocal.com

morsowinebar.com

YOURLOCALDININGGUIDE

Restaurants with this symbol have public wifi access.

Jimmy John’s

Morso

Satisfy your palate with their amazing gourmet lunch and dinner overlooking spectacular views of the water. Gig Harbor’s best kept secret! Wine list offers a worldwide scope, craft beers on tap, fun food & wine events. Their Morso Gallery provides private dining & a unique experience seeing local & national artists. Live music events feature amazing artists from around the country. Hours: Tue-Thurs 4-10pm, Fri-Sat 12pm-12am, Sun 2-9pm. 9014 Peacock Hill Ave at N. Harborview Dr. morsowinebar.com | 253.530.3463

Freaky fast! Freaky good!™ Jimmy John’s is your go-to spot for freaky fast sandwiches made with real, fresh ingredients. JJ’s tasty French bread is always served freshly baked, and quality meats and locally-grown veggies are sliced in-store daily. Hours: Sun-Sat 11am10pm. 5114 Point Fosdick Drive NW, Ste. B Gig Harbor, WA 98335 253.858.8960 jimmyjohns.com

Taste Green.House Restaurant

Come and try their delicious new additions and nightly specials! Offering lunch, twilight, dinner & happy hour. Also serving a 3 course twilight dinner for $19 all night. Their small and bigger bites menu offers fun, deliciously sharable plates. Open Mon-Thurs 11am-9pm, Fri-Sat 11am-10pm and Sun 11am-8pm. 4793 Point Fosdick Dr. NW, Ste. 400 253.514.6482 | greenhousegigharbor.com

Harbor General Store

The Harbor General Store is a gourmet market, cafe and gift boutique, where the community comes to get supplies & gifts and feel connected. They sell goods that are quality and made in America and are passionate about the environment, creating jobs and supporting artisans. Open Mon 7am-3pm, Tues-Sat 7am-7pm, Sun 8am-4pm. Drive thru opens 6am Mon-Fri. Free WiFi! 7804 Pioneer Way 253.358.3241 www.theharborgeneralstore.com

Yo! G’s Frozen Yogurt

Gig Harbor’s family owned and operated self-serve frozen yogurt store offers ten varieties of yogurt that rotate on a regular basis and over 60 toppings! Included are dairy free, gluten free, and sugar free options. Try one of their delicious flavors today. You’ll be sure to come back for more! 4784 Borgen Blvd. NW, Suite E 253.858.9647

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Peru

Taste of Peru offers traditional Peruvian dishes as well as vegetarian, vegan, and gluten free options. Two-year running Bite of Seattle winner for their quinoa salads. They prepare their meals from scratch and use fresh ingredients in order to offer a lighter and healthier option without compromising flavor. Hours are Tue-Fri 11:30am-3pm and 4:308pm. Sat 11:30am-9pm. Sun 12-8pm. 5500 Olympic Drive NW, Ste D -101 253.313.5198 tasteofperuonline.com

Harbor Farms Seafood

Meats

and

NW natural meat products. All wild caught fish and homemade marinated meats - go pick up dinner! Freezer case with exotic hard to find products, specialty items, soups. The best pork you can buy from the Midwest! Open 7 days a week Mon-Sat 9am-8pm and Sun 9am6pm. 6820A Kimball Drive, Suite 7 253.313.5640 harborfarmsmeatsandseafood.com

Moctezuma’s Mexican Restaurant

Voted best Mexican Restaurant in South Sound Magazine for 2015! Since 1978, Moctezuma’s has been the favorite of those seeking authentic Mexican food and award winning Margaritas. Go visit their Gig Harbor location and enjoy their Tequila Bar for daily happy hour specials and an array of delicious appetizers. They have WiFi! 4628 Pt. Fosdick Drive NW 253.851.8464 moctezumas.com

QUALITY MEATS

• NW Natural Meat Products • All Wild Caught Fish • Homemade Marinated Meats Come Pick Up Dinner! • Freezer Case With Exotic Hard To Find Products • Specialty Items And Soups

FRESH SEAFOODS

SPECIALTY FOODS

EARLY SUMMER SALE! FILET MIGNON STEAK $17.99/lb 8oz. LOBSTER TAILS $8.99ea. Military and Senior Discounts

WWW.HARBORFARMSMEATSANDSEAFOOD.COM 253-313-5640 | 6820A Kimball Drive Suite 7 Gig Harbor, WA 98335 Open 7 days a week Monday-Saturday 9am-8pm Sunday 9am-6pm

Marketplace Grille

American cuisine with a Caribbean flair. The best Fish and Chips and Clam Chowder in Gig Harbor! Located next to Anthony’s Restaurant and offers an expansive view of the harbor. Family owned and operated. Beer and Wine, Take Out Menu available. Hours MonThurs, 11am-8pm, Fri-Sat, 11am-9pm, Sun, 11am-8pm. 8825 North Harborview Drive, Unit C 253.858.3487 themarketplacegrille.com

Ten varieties of yogurt that rotate on a regular basis and over 60 toppings! 4784 Borgen Blvd. NW, Suite E 253.858.9647

GigHarborLivingLocal.com

Occasions

Coffee and Crepes Est. 2000

CREPES Paninis & Sandwiches Build Your Own Crepes Salads & Soups Forza Coffee All Recyclable Packaging & Utensils Local Artisan Gifts Ray and Jan Wainright, owners of Occasions Coffee & Crepes since 2000 and Gig Harbor residents.

Ray Wainright

MACADAMIA NUT PESTO (GF)

BENEFITS

From “It’s Vegan” by Betsy Wroblewski Makes 12 to 16 servings

Gather Ingredients • • • • • • •

1 large bunch Basil 1 C. olive oil 3/4 C. unsalted Macadamia Nuts 4 cloves garlic 3/4 tsp. salt Juice from 1 lemon fresh ground pepper to taste

Put it Together 1. 2. 3.

See us at the Gig Harbor Farmer's Market on Saturdays!

HEALTH

NUTRAGEOUS AND DELICIOUS!

Owner

NOW FEATURING FRESH STRAWBERRY CREPES!

SO MANY

Place all ingredients in a food processor and mix until completely blended. Top your favorite pasta or use as a spread with bread or vegetables. This pesto also freezes well for up to 3 months.

4700 Pt Fosdick Dr NW, Ste 109 Gig Harbor, WA 98335

253.851.2576 GigHarborLivingLocal.com

The scoop on Basil The round, often pointed leaves of the basil plant resembles peppermint, to which it is related. Its highly fragrant leaves are used as a seasoning herb for a variety of foods but has become ever popular as the main ingredient in pesto, the mixture of basil, pine nuts and parmesan cheese.

Fine Dining with Endless Views of Mt. Rainier and the Gig Harbor Lighthouse.

253.851.3167

Lunch & Dinner Cocktails ~ Premium Beers ~ Extended Wine List

Call for your reservation for Fatherâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Day or any special occasion! OPEN Lunch Mon~Sat 11am to 2pm Happy Hour 3pm to 5:30pm Dinner 4pm to close

2905 Harborview Drive NW Gig Harbor www.thegreenturtle.com

Surf & Turf 6oz filet mignon grilled and topped with sauteed onions, button mushrooms and a creamy gorgonzola sauce along with seared scampi in a lemon beurre blanc.

Jazzy Chop Porterhouse pork chop marinated in extra virgin olive oil, rosemary and garlic, oven baked and finished with our creamy goat cheese, spinach, mushroom, Thai chili sauce.

Muscovy Duck Oven baked and topped with our plum and toasted almond sauce.

Ahi Tuna Lightly coated with black peppercorns, seared rare and topped with our roasted garlic / ginger glaze.

Thinking about your dream vacation home in your dream location? Call today for a free consultation.

476534 HWY 95 N. Unit D Ponderay, ID 83852 208.263.2853 | www.dsscustomhomes.com GigHarborLivingLocal.com

Arts & Entertainment LOCAL EVENTS & HAPPENINGS

FOOD TRUCK FEAST Enjoy beats and delicious eats By Maddie Russo

DINE IN THE PARK at this brand new event put on by Peninsula Metropolitan Park District! Saturday, June 18, make way for the food trucks because the 2016 Food Truck Feast is something you won’t want to miss! Kick off the start of summer and Father’s Day weekend at Sehmel Homestead Park surrounded by some of the tastiest trucks in the North West from 12 to 5pm. The fun doesn’t stop at food trucks though. Be sure to quench your thirst at the Greater Gig Harbor Foundation’s Craft Beverage Garden that will feature local craft beer, signature cocktails and wine. The Foundation will commit proceeds from the day’s event to help provide important funding for youth sports and recreation, including the Park District’s scholarship fund. It wouldn’t be complete without some live entertainment. From 12 to 1:30pm enjoy the beats of Budapest West with their unique “electro-world-groove” sound and from 2 to 5pm jam out with Radio 80, your 80’s pop radio hits from new wave to rock from Duran Duran to Van Halen, from Cyndi Lauper to Pat Benatar. There will be 12 different food trucks for you to choose from, but who says you have to choose? Try them all! The food truck lineup includes: Stacks Burgers, Frying Dutchman, Hometown Dogs, Vietnom Nom, Arnold’s Happy Days, Smokin’ Zee’s BBQ, Jemil’s Big Easy, On the Grind, Kama’aina Grill, Curbside Urban Cuisine, and Butt Naked Organics. Admission to this event is free. Your only obligation is to kick back and relax at this new, family fun, annual event. All information regarding food trucks, menus, live music, the beverage garden and sponsors can be found on penmetparks.org. Join the Facebook event to keep up with any changes! Please check the website as well for off-site parking and shuttle services.

GigHarborLivingLocal.com

EXCEPTIONAL COLLECTION OF: ESTATE & CONSIGNMENT FINE JEWELRY AND RARE GEMS JEWELRY REPAIR CUSTOM WEDDING RINGS BY MASTER JEWELER SINCE 1978

Maritime Jewelers

• Custom Designs Available • Buyer on Premises • Most Jewelry Repaired Same Day

Voted in the Top 25 out of 100 of the Best Designer Jewelers in Western Washington!

Free Verbal Appraisal by GIA Graduate Gemologist

3116 Harborview Drive, Gig Harbor Open Tuesday - Saturday 11am - 5pm

253.853.4579 • 866.346.GEMS • www.maritimejewelers.com

3200 Tarabochia Street • Gig Harbor 253.514.6890 • www.rainydayyarns.com

4102 Harborview Drive Gig Harbor, WA | 253.858.3008 f The Beach Basket Gift Shops / Beach Basket Christmas Shop

Offering Group & Private Classes!

Fabulous Apparel

Accessories Gifts Gig Harbor T-Shirts Sweatshirts Souvenirs Women’s Sportswear Beach Decor Christmas Decor And More!

Home Essentials Wide Range of Beautiful Yarns Large Selection of Needles, Hooks, Books & Accessories Knitwear, Jewelry & Gifs by Local Artists Custom Orders Always Welcome

GigHarborLivingLocal.com

Open Monday 11-5 Tuesday–Saturday 10-5, Sunday 11-4 7700 Pioneer Way Ste. 103 Gig Harbor, WA • 253.851.5113

CALENDAR OF EVENTS JUN

FAMILY FEATURE: First Saturday Art Walk

A spectacular event that showcases our downtown as an enjoyable destination for both visitors and residents is the First Saturday Art Walk. This is a free, award-winning event put on by the Downtown Waterfront Alliance. Along Gig Harbor’s downtown waterfront, art enthusiasts can tour through six different galleries featuring artist demonstrations, refreshments and displays of different mediums and styles. At the beginning of the walk you can pick up a passport and collect stamps as you go. At the end, drop it off to be entered in a drawing for a $50 gift certificate!

Maritime Gig Festival

JUN

June 4-5. Gig Harbor’s biggest festival is here! Enjoy a pancake breakfast, concerts, a car show, watch or participate in the grand parade through the streets of downtown Gig Harbor and more! Business and food vendors will line the streets and Skansie Brothers Park. Saturday 8am to 7pm, Sunday 10am to 3pm.

The Way Down Wanderers

JUN

Come listen to the Bluegrass Sound of The Way Down Wanderers at Morso! Playing, performing and writing together for just over two years, the Wanderers have built an enthusiastic and fast-growing following from their energy, originality and soulful generosity. Tickets are on sale now for $20. Show begins at 8pm!

JUN

Our Town: Iceland For centuries, the people of Iceland have believed that elves live among them in tiny hidden communities. Join the Harbor History Museum from 1 to 3pm for this family friendly event. Spend the time constructing a one-of-a-kind elf house with the provided materials. This event is free! harborhistorymuseum.org

JUN

Gig Harbor Relay For Life June 17-18. This will be the 20th year for the Gig Harbor Relay for Life at Peninsula High School’s track facility. There’s a new energy and a whole new look! Help “Paint The Town Purple” from 6pm to 12pm and participate in this year’s Relay for Life! For more information email CindyLumsden@chifranciscan.org.

Upcoming Events - July 01

FRIDAY FAMILY FUN MOVIE NIGHTS

FIRST SATURDAY ART WALK

GigHarborLivingLocal.com

GIG HARBOR’S WINGS & WHEELS

TACOMA FREEDOM FAIR, AIRSHOW & FIREWORKS

JUN

Waterfront Farmers Market June 2nd kicks off the summerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Waterfront Farmers Market at Skansie Brothers Park! This will run every Thursday from 3 to 7pm through the end of August. This is a community-based, open-air market providing access to locally grown fruits, vegetables, fish and other local products. Come stroll through the market that connects citizens and food producers.

GigHarborLivingLocal.com

JUN

Disney’s “The Little Mermaid” June 17 - July 9. Based on one of Hans Christian Anderson’s most beloved stories and the classic animated film, Disney’s “The Little Mermaid” is a hauntingly beautiful love story for the ages. Come enjoy this family friendly show at Paradise Theatre, 7:30 to 9:30pm. This fishy tale will capture your heart.

JUN

Food Truck Feast

Gig Harbor Garden Tour

Trolley Taste Tour

Make way for the food trucks! The first annual Food Truck Feast will be held from noon to 5pm at Sehmel Park in Gig Harbor. Kick off the start of the summer and Father’s Day weekend with 12 tasty food trucks, craft beer and live music. All you have to do is relax and kick back at beautiful Sehmel Park with family and friends! Admission is free.

This is a self-guided tour of seven residential gardens, so please wear your walking shoes and bring your friends for a wonderful day of gardening ideas! Explore various gardens from 10am to 5pm. The profits generated from the Garden Tour go to fund literacy programs in the Gig Harbor and Key Peninsula area. www.gigharborgardentour.org/ literacyprograms.htm.

JUN

Taste of Tacoma

Endometriosis Awareness 5k Run/Walk

Dueling Bases: Tacoma Symphony at Morso

June 24-26. Take part in the ultimate summer get together! The Taste of Tacoma celebrates all things local with food, entertainment and family fun. Grab your friends, family or just roll solo to this event at Point Defiance Park from 11am to 9pm. Admission is free!

Help bring awareness and an end to Endo! Women, men, children, friends and family impacted by this disease are encouraged to come out to Point Fosdick Prompt Care and be inspired, get active, walk together and fight for a cure for endometriosis in this impactful 5K. The event begins at 8am! Register at www.databarevents. com/bringanendtoendo.

Join this amazing fundraiser for GHHS & PHS Girl’s Basketball. From 11am to 8pm hop on the Gig Harbor Trolley with your purchased bracelet and shop Uptown and Downtown where you have an exclusive shopping spree at participating stores. For more information visit www.eventbrite.com and search “Trolley Tour and Shopping Spree”.

Morso is hosting part two of their threepart series featuring chamber groups from the Tacoma Symphony Orchestra. This performance will be the “Dueling Basses” duo featuring the leaders of the double bass section. The show features a variety of styles of music, not only classical, but arrangements of jazz, rock and pop music. Show begins at 7pm!

Upcoming Events - July 08

BLUE WILLOW LAVENDER FESTIVAL

SUMMER ARTS FESTIVAL

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GIG HARBOR WINE & FOOD FESTIVAL

FLUTE, HARP & VIOLA TRIO AT MORSO

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