New Neighbors Guide for Kitsap Summer 2023

LETTER FROM THE PUBLISHER

Welcome to the New Neighbors Guide!

On behalf of the local community, we welcome you to Kitsap County. Whether you’re here temporarily or to make this a permanent home, we know you’re going to love our region. With our natural beauty, lakes, streams and forested trails, this is the perfect location for outdoor fun. With some of the best coffee in the world and a vibrant food and entertainment scene, Kitsap County has something for everyone.

Let’s face it, moving to a new city can be costly and timeconsuming—but it’s also exciting! This guide is written by a mix of perspectives from native Kitsap Countians to people who moved here from out of the area. Our group reminisced about what we wished people had told us when we first moved here.

This resource guide offers tips and reminders to get you settled and to get the nuts and bolts of your new home well underway. This resource will also help you get connected to your local community, schools and health care; and help you put down “roots” in your daily life here. From great ideas for your home and events to engage in the community, we have you covered.

As we put together this issue, we look forward to providing you with information and education about all the “best things” in Kitsap County and we hope to give you a sense of place where you belong and feel connected. We welcome you, our “new neighbor” to Kitsap County.

Kindest regards, Robin

Lucas

Robin Lucas, Publisher

Publisher Robin Lucas

Office Manager

Karissa Wilson

Editing Team

Cynthia Boyd

Pamela Holt

Calendar Editor

Sally Perkins

Art Director

Susan Newsom

Website

Kelly McKay

Social Media

Madison Ford

Writing Team

Natalie Benson

Lynn Castle

Leah Grout

Julie Leydelmeyer

Mary Ellen Psaltis

Hillary Ryan

Photography

Amanda Howse

Sales Team

Marcy Angel Saundra Coffen

KITSAP COUNTY

TO KITSAP COUNTY

BY LYNN CASTLE

You’re now a resident of scenic Kitsap County filled with amazing water views, fantastic outdoor recreation and vibrant history. But before you can enjoy all the County has to offer, you have some vital tasks to complete.

REGISTER TO VOTE

Getting active and informed about your local and state government starts with registering to vote. If you have a current Washington State driver’s license or state ID, you can register to vote online in your new location at voter.votewa.gov/WhereToVote. If you moved to Kitsap County from out of state, you can register at the Auditor’s Office up until 8pm on Election Day. The County Auditor’s Office, located in the county seat of Port Orchard, is at 619 Division Street on the third floor.

GET YOUR FURRY FRIEND A KITSAP COUNTY LICENSE

Any move can be hard on your four-legged companions. Protect them with licensing. The best way to do that is to visit the Kitsap Humane Society which is the pet-licensing agent for all jurisdictions in Kitsap County. They offer easy online or in-person licensing. kitsap-humane.org

LEARN YOUR PUBLIC TRANSPORTATION OPTIONS

Kitsap Transit is the public transit agency serving your new neighborhood. The system is based in Bremerton and operates bus service on 40 fixed routes, a foot ferry, a vanpool system, worker-driver services, and dial-aride services. The Kitsap Fast Ferries are also operated by Kitsap Transit. kitsaptransit.com

UPDATE YOUR DRIVER’S LICENSE

If you currently have a Washington State driver’s license, then visit dol.wa.gov to change the address. If you moved from out of state, here’s what you’ll need to transfer your driver’s license to Washington.

1. Proof of identity, Social Security number, and residency in Washington.

2. Complete list of acceptable documents.

3. Out-of-state driver’s license.

4. Payment for required fees: $35 application fee

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NEIGHBORHOODS

LIFE IN KITSAP COUNTY

BY LYNN CASTLE

Kitsap County is known for its deep indigenous roots and its military and timber industries. The area provides a wide array of activities to keep you and your family active and engaged in your surroundings.

HISTORY

Kitsap County was originally named Slaughter County in 1857, but only six months later became Kitsap County, named after Chief Kitsap, a Suquamish tribal leader. To this day, the Suquamish Tribe play a vital role in the Kitsap community.

Other vital roles are filled in by the military via the sea. The Puget Sound Naval Station (PSNS) is one of the largest naval shipyards on earth at 650 acres. After the attack on Pearl Harbor, five of the six surviving battleships were sent to the Bremerton shipyard for repair.

GET SOME FRESH AIR

The County is practically surrounded by water and many outdoor and water activities abound from whale watching to fantastic hiking trails. Martha Stewart visited Heronswood Garden in Kingston in North Kitsap County and called it, “One of the best places on earth.” Or, check out Hansville’s Point No Point beach park which hosts the oldest lighthouse on Puget Sound.

HEALTH AND WELLNESS

Pickleball is one of the fastest growing sports in the country and it was invented on Bainbridge Island by three men, including Joel Pritchard, a Washington congressman. Enjoy it and many other sports throughout the county.

Your medical needs will be met in the area by St. Michael Medical Center in Silverdale which just underwent a $500 million dollar expansion project. The hospital is part of Virginia Mason Franciscan Health’s system of 10 hospitals and 230 specialty clinics in the Puget Sound.

ARTS AND CULTURE

Kitsap Peninsula is rich with arts and culture, from museums showcasing the region’s diverse people, creations, and history to dozens of venues featuring live theater, dance, and music. A quick list includes the Kitsap Maritime Heritage Foundation, Naval Undersea Museum, the Japanese American Memorial and Puget Sound Navy Museum. Check out visitkitsap.com/arts-and-culture for a comprehensive look at what’s happening in Kitsap County.

The Harbor History Museum

BY STEPHANIE LILE

Nestled on the Gig Harbor waterfront where Donkey Creek meets the bay, the Harbor History Museum is celebrating its 13th year of operation. Yet the Museum’s campus has a much deeper history, first as a village site of the sx w babš, or Swift Water People, a band of the Puyallup Tribe. In the early 1900s it became the site of C.O. Austin’s log mill and original site of the Peninsula Light Company, formed in 1926. The Museum campus includes the 1893 Midway Schoolhouse and 65-foot fishing boat, Shenandoah. Step through the Museum’s front doors, surrounded by massive logs reminiscent of the trees that were once milled here, and a whole world of culture and tradition welcomes you.

The Museum’s 7,000 square-foot permanent gallery takes you on a journey from the twisted remnants of “Galloping Gertie” (the first Tacoma Narrows Bridge) to the immigrant stories of boat builders, fishermen, farmers, and ferry operators. Look closely and find the first winners of Gig Harbor’s fabled Round Rock Contest and hear the clamor of the crowd as C.E. Shaw’s famous racing roosters take to the track. These roosters were so popular they were featured on New York’s radio show Hobby Lobby 1938, running a demonstration race at Madison Square Garden.

Fans of local boat building will delight in the Willits canoe, the giant wheel from the ferry Defiance, and a purse seiner’s power block—the 1950s invention that changed commercial fishing forever. Loved by many are the Norwegian and Croatian costumes on display from the days of Scandia Gaard, a 1970s local attraction where Nordic heritage was celebrated through music, dance, and folklore.

Visitors may step inside the one-room Midway schoolhouse, the last of its kind in the Gig Harbor area. Restored and set in 1915, the schoolhouse is home to the popular Pioneer School Experience field trip program.

The Shenandoah is 65 feet of wonder. Recently named an American Treasure by the National Park Service, she is being preserved for future generations as the centerpiece of the Museum’s new Maritime Gallery, due to open in 2025. Visitors can see her restoration in action.

HARBOR HISTORY MUSEUM

4121 Harborview Dr, Gig Harbor 235.858.6722

harborhistorymuseum.org

BY LYNN CASTLE

A ENROLLING IN SCHOOL IN KITSAP COUNTY

mmove can be a traumatic event for our kids—a new school being one of the most daunting challenges for both them and for you as parents. There are 78 public schools in Kitsap County that serve over 34,000 students as well as 32 private schools that meet the needs of nearly 2,400 students. The biggest districts are Bainbridge, Bremerton, Central Kitsap, North Kitsap and South Kitsap. To find schools in Kitsap County, go online to nces.ed.gov/ccd/districtsearch

Most schools now offer online registration which can be a huge timesaver. You will need some basic information about your child’s past schools and transcripts, their vaccination and health records, who to contact in an emergency, proof of address and your personal identification as their parent.

Once registered you can explore the schools’ policies on everything from in-class and online learning to after school activities and childcare.

GIVING BACK IN KITSAP COUNTY

Our communities thrive through the input and inspiration of those members in it. We grow, improve, and succeed by working together. As you begin to explore the Kitsap communities, take a moment to look around and discover what is important to you and your family. Then take that next step to make a difference in areas you care about. You can volunteer your time, share your expertise, and of course donate financially to specific causes.

There are an abundance of charities in Kitsap County, and you can explore them through the Kitsap County Community Foundation

(KCCF) website. Their vision is to foster an abundant future where everyone in our community has the opportunity to thrive through inspired generosity. As a catalyst for greater good, the KCCF works with donors and others in the region to invest in non-profit organizations and foster a more vibrant Kitsap County.

To find ways to become involved by volunteering or discover the best organizations to donate to, visit the Kitsap Community Foundation website. kcf.fcsuite.com/erp/donate/list/directory

You can search by category:

• Animals

• Arts & Culture

• Basic Needs

BY LYNN CASTLE

• Community Improvement

• Education

• Environment

• Health

• Human Services

• Youth Development

Winston Churchill once said, “We make a living by what we get. We make a life by what we give.”

MAKING YOUR HOUSE Home

Tips to transform a house into a home with decor and furniture from the heart

* Your entry is the initial introduction to your home and sets the stage for you and your guests. Place a cozy rug on the floor or floor mat to define the entry and give an immediate sense of personality. A reclaimed wood bench, umbrella stand or coat rack, and luscious candles complete the perfect welcome home.

* Be creative with your space and don’t be afraid to think outside of the box! Move items at an angle, layer different

~ Design tips provided by Sage Interiors in Tacoma

rugs, and add a wall of photos and memories. Use your imagination to make the space warm, inviting and as unique as you are!

* Always try to bring nature inside. While the northwest is overflowing with the beauty of nature, we all know that with our wet, gloomy weather, we stay inside for the better part of the year. Visit your local nursery to get tips on what kind of plants will work for your

Aspace, the amount of light it receives, and your lifestyle

* Incorporate different elements like wood, metal, glass, and greenery throughout each room to bring warmth and life to your spaces. Mirrors not only provide style and function but also lighten up a room and help create movement.

GettinG Settled into a new home

BY LYNN CASTLE

GET YOUR UTILITIES SET UP

Having heat and lights as soon as you arrive is a priority:

• Electricity

• Water and sewer

• Wi-Fi and internet does this impact your email address?

• Garbage pick up service

• Television whether cable or streaming

MAILING ADDRESSES BEFORE AND AFTER THE MOVE

Before: Fill out change of address forms with the US Post Office so your mail will forward.

After:

Change your address with your bank, credit cards, online retailers, PayPal, and other businesses you want to continue doing business with.

UNPACKING TIPS

• If you moved major appliances such as a washer, dryer, refrigerator, etc., plug them in right away and run them to ensure they work. If not, you may need to file an insurance claim or talk to your movers about compensation.

• Save your receipts for tax purposes as many expenses related to moving for a job are deductible.

• Check that all boxes are fully empty and break them down for recycling. Offer your boxes and packing materials to others for use when you are done through OfferUp or Craigslist. Recycle any that are unusable.

• In the throes of packing, you probably kept items you didn’t really want in the interest of time. Now as you unpack, make sure you truly want the items you are unpacking before you put them in your home. Start a box for a local charity or to have a garage sale in the near future so you can meet your new neighbors.

Well before you start unpacking, you should follow a few simple steps to ensure a smooth transition that also ensures your peace of mind.

OLYMPIC LANDSCAPE

Heart for Community

Olympic Landscape has been designing, building and servicing outdoor residential and commercial spaces in the South Sound for more than 40 years. As an expert landscape contractor, the company creates beautiful outdoor living spaces, unique gathering spaces, and specially-themed gardens for homes and businesses. The owner and CEO, Joe Areyano, plans to continue that legacy. He also added new services and products that will carry Olympic forward for at least another 40 years.

“My family started a landscape company in 1980, so I’ve been around the industry for the majority of my life,” says Areyano. “At age 16, I started learning every division of the company, from landscape retaining walls to irrigation.” After about five years, he was promoted to field manager and continued to work his way into greater responsibilities. He’s now a certified landscape professional. This hands-on experience, he says, helps him ensure that customers receive the highest-quality service.

Since Areyano purchased Olympic Landscape from founder Neil Hedman, he has expanded the business. The company is growing into a regional leader, expanding its service area and the core

BY JULIE LEYDELMEYER

services it offers. As a great landscape construction install company, Olympic offers both landscape design/build and landscape straight to construction. They now offer commercial maintenance and can accommodate snow and ice removal projects too. This is good news for local businesses and homeowners who need these services.

The growth of Olympic Landscape is good news for the larger community as the company increased the number of employees to about 57 in 2019. Additionally, Olympic supports local charities and non-profit events such as St. Francis House, which eases the hardships of those in need in east Pierce County. They also support the Emergency Food Network that supplies 3.9 million pounds of healthy, nutritious food annually to 76 food pantries, meal sites and shelters for distribution to families and individuals in need. Olympic partners with Adorned in Grace, a bridal boutique that uses its profit to teach and train individuals rescued from human trafficking. The company is particularly proud to support their neighbors and give back to complete the community circle.

olympiclandscape.com

Photo// CEO Joe Areyano by Amanda Howse

RENEWAL BY ANDERSEN

Find Quality & Confidence for Your Home’s Window Replacement

BY MARY ELLEN PSALTIS

The Signature Service Promise

• Professional Installation

Certified Master Installers, all company employees, do your work. “We don’t use subcontractors,” notes Brady.

• Superior Performance

Andersen’s exclusive Fibrex® composite material lasts longer, performs better, and is stronger than vinyl.

• Energy Efficiency

Replacing windows in your home is a significant investment. Windows open you to the beauty of your surroundings. Additionally, they are foundations for energy efficiency, safety, security, and durability. Renewal by Anderson, locally owned and operated, accompanies homeowners on their window journeys from beginning to end - from idea conception to the final installation.

Is your house 25 or even 100 years old?

Renewal by Anderson expects distinct nuances in each property based on age and architectural style. First, you’ll meet with a designer for a consultation. Each window will be specifically made for your dimensions ensuring each fit is exact.

“We own the whole process from beginning to end,” says Brady Kalivoda, Director of Product and Sales Training. From the person who talks to you about design, to the

measurer, to the window builder and then to the installer, it’s all Renewal by Anderson. The team listens to you and communicates to get the job done correctly with care, respect, and professionalism, ultimately for results you will enjoy for years to come.

The heart of the company is making windows and doors that are different and better. Innovative products and high standards lead the way for long-term customer satisfaction.

Your time is worth contacting Renewal by Anderson for replacement windows. “We are happy to visit with you. Regardless of your final choice, you will have more information for the decision for your home,” assures Brady, adding, “I am confident if we are a fit, we can make you happy with product and people. We strive to delight people.”

Renewal by Andersen’s windows are ENERGY STAR® certified and can reduce heating and cooling costs.

• Hassle-Free Process

You work with one company. Anderson is responsible for all aspects of your window replacement and installation.

• Long-Term Value

A comprehensive, hands-on approach ensures your window and installation quality, beauty, and energy savings last for many years.

• Beauty

You’ll find a wealth of window styles, colors, and grilles to fit any home.

Shop & Dine at Gig Harbor’s Most Loved Shopping Center

BY LYNN CASTLE

At Uptown Gig Harbor you will find a wonderful mixture of national retailers you love and fun, local merchants that provide you with a connection to the area. Located just off Highway 16’s exit 10, Uptown Gig Harbor’s 35 stores and restaurants offer the latest fashions, intriguing gifts, décor, and artwork plus fine dining to quick takeout.

With plenty of free parking, the Uptown vibe is casual, relaxed, and friendly for all ages and you are encouraged to revel in their outdoor shopping space. As you stroll the grounds filled with a variety of flowers and plants, you’ll come across all types of art, from traditional gongs to rock fountains and contemporary sculpture.

According to Uptown Gig Harbor’s Tenant Coordinator, Paula Zenobio, “The beauty of the center and our unique mix of merchants is what makes Uptown Gig Harbor the South Sound’s premier shopping center.” You can grab a cup of coffee at Cutter’s Point, catch up with friends after school at River Dance Fountain, watch an IMAX Movie at Galaxy Theatres (the only IMAX in the South Sound) or get some fresh air on the Art Walk.

And with more than 30 events a year, you’re sure to find something to entertain you and the family. Uptown offers free concerts every Thursday night in the summer, the historic Cruise the Narrows Annual Car Show, and the world-class Gig Harbor Film Festival

in September. On the third Saturday in December, they host the annual Gig Harbor Lighted Car Parade — a five-mile parade route that ends at Uptown and features a fair-like area filled with artisan vendors.

Zenobio suggests if you are new to the area, sign up for the VIP Promos program. You will be among the first to know of exclusive promotions, specials, and VIP offerings only at Uptown Gig Harbor. You’ll also receive the monthly Uptown Gig Harbor newsletter filling you in on upcoming events and sales.

UPTOWN GIG HARBOR uptowngigharbor.com

CALENDAR OF EVENTS JULY

YMCA of Pierce & Kitsap Counties

Summer Camps

Various locations ymcakc.org/summer-day-camp

Uptown Summer Concert Series

Thursdays, July 6-August 10, 6pm Uptown Gig Harbor 4701 Pt Fosdick Dr, Gig Harbor uptowngigharbor.com

The Waterfront Farmers Market

July 6-September 14

Poulsbo Farmers Market Saturdays through Dec.16, 10am -2pm 18901 8th Ave NE, Poulsbo 360.779.6720 | poulsbofarmersmarket.org

Bremerton Community Farmers Market

Thursdays through October, 4-7pm 1400 Park Ave, Bremerton bremertoncommunityfarmersmarket.com

Port Orchard Farmers Market

Saturdays through mid-October, 9am-2pm Waterfront Boardwalk, Port Orchard pofarmersmarket.org

Silverdale Farmers Market

Tuesdays through September 26, 10am-2pm 9490 Silverdale Way, Silverdale 360.471.8219

Performance on the Passage Outdoor Summer Concert Series

Thursdays, July & August, 7pm Clearwater Casino

15347 Suquamish Way NE, Suquamish clearwatercasino.com

Summer Sounds

Tuesdays through August, 6:30-8pm

Skansie Brothers Park

3211 Harborview, Gig Harbor visitgigharbor.com

Kitsap County Parks Clean-Ups

Select Weekdays & Saturdays Volunteer Opportunities kitsapgov.com

Skansie Brothers Park 3211 Harborview, Gig Harbor waterfrontfarmersmarket.org

Set Sail Fridays

July 7-September 1, 10am-2pm

Puget Sound Navy Museum

251 1st St, Bremerton 360.479.7447 | pugetsoundnavymuseum.org

Romeo & Juliet

July 14-30

Port Gamble Theater View Dr NE, Port Gamble 360.977.7135 | portgambletheater.com

Jewel Box Theatre Teen Summer Camp

July 17-August 12

225 NE Iverson, Poulsbo jewelboxpoulsbo.org

Missoula Children’s Theatre Camp

July 24-29

Admiral Theater

515 Pacific Ave, Bremerton 360.373.6743 | admiraltheatre.org

Admiral Theater Summer Camp

July 31-August 11, Performance August 12 515 Pacific Ave, Bremerton 360.373.6743 | admiraltheatre.org

AUGUST

Jewel Box Theatre Scene Painting Camp

August 1-12

225 NE Iverson, Poulsbo jewelboxpoulsbo.org

Silverdale Whaling Days

July 28-30

Silverdale Waterfront Park

3337 Byron St, Silverdale whalingdays.com

Cruise the Narrows Car Show

August 5, 8am-3pm Uptown MultiCare lower parking lot

4545 Point Fosdick Dr, Gig Harbor gigharborcruisers.com

Vestre Sund Mannskor Men’s Chorus

Aug 3, 7-9pm

Sons of Norway Greig Hall 18991 Front St NE, Poulsbo 360.779.5209

Silverdale at Sunset Concert Series

Wednesdays in August, 6:30-8pm

Silverdale Waterfront Park

3337 Byron St, Silverdale greaterkitsapchamber.com/events

Port Orchard Saints Cruz Car Show

August 13

Downtown Waterfront and Bay Street, Port Orchard portorchard.com/cruz-car-show

100th Kitsap County Fair & Stampede

August 23-27

Kitsap County Fairgrounds

1300 NW Fairgrounds Rd, kitsapfair.org

SEPTEMBER

Washington State Fair

September 1-24

Washington State Fair Event Center

110 9th Ave SW, Puyallup 253.845.1771 | thefair.com

Keyport Festival

September 16

Throughout Community

Naval Undersea Museum activities

1 Garnett Way, Keyport 360.396.4148 | navalunderseamuseum.org

Gig Harbor Film Festival

September 21-24

Uptown Galaxy Theatres 4649 Point Fosdick, Gig Harbor gigharborfilm.org

OCTOBER

Wigged Out Ride

October 1, Time TBD

LeMay America’s Car Museum to Uptown Pavilion

2702 D St, Tacoma Pt. Fosdick St NW, Gig Harbor uptowngigharbor.com/wigged-out-ride

October 6-22

Port Gamble Theater View Dr NE, Port Gamble 360.977.7135 | portgambletheater.com

Autumn Sip & Stroll

October 7, noon-4pm

Harbor History Museum

4121 Harborview Dr, Gig Harbor

gigharborwaterfront.org/autumn-sipandstroll

Murder on the Nile

Built Around a Passion for Fly Fishing FAR BANK

BY LYNN CASTLE

Living in the Pacific Northwest, outdoor activities surround us, especially with the abundance of water in Kitsap County. Whether your healthy obsession is camping, hiking, or biking or something else entirely, the great people from Far Bank want to encourage you to consider fly fishing.

According to Tag Kleiner, Chief Marketing and Product Officer at Far Bank, “While we develop and manufacture iconic rods, reels and flies known around the globe, at Far Bank we really just want people to get outdoors and go fly fishing.” He added, “We believe in getting people outside walls and enjoying the wild.”

Far Bank is globally known, but really it is a cottage industry led by more than 250 people across four brands with footprints on Bainbridge Island, the SODO area of Seattle, Idaho Falls, and Ashland, Oregon. Filled with hard-working, dedicated local people, Sage’s rod factory is located on Bainbridge Island where they design, develop, and build their rods sold around the world.

“Sage rods, and our entire Far Bank house of brands, are highly visible on a global scale, but really we are a local business with a family feel,” said Kleiner.

Striving to be inclusive of everyone, novice to highly experienced, freshwater trout to saltwater trophy fish, Sage makes rods across a wide variety of price points and sizes. Fishermen using their rods can catch everything from trout in the Rockies using lightweight fly fishing setups to ocean fishing for tarpon, tuna, or sailfish using much bigger, sturdy equipment.

Under the Far Bank umbrella of companies, you will find Sage rods, reels and equipment, Redington rods, reels, waders and gear, RIO PRODUCTS featuring world-class fly line, leader, tippet and flies, plus Fly Water Travel - a destination fly fishing travel partner.

Best known as a well-established rod manufacturer with a long legacy of building an incredible product, Sage also touts their great company culture. As one of the biggest employers on Bainbridge Island, they are highly connected to their community and to each other.

Welcome to the fly fishing community . . .

EXPLORE THE BRANDS OF FAR BANK farbank.com

Explore your inner “CREATIVE WARRIOR” at The Lisa Stirrett Creative Warrior Studio

Housed in a charming historic building in Kitsap County, glass artist Lisa Stirrett runs a working glass studio open to the community and focused on empowering women through art. The Lisa Stirrett Creative Warrior Studio showcases colorful glass art from butterflies to hanging mermaid ornaments, all handmade in Silverdale, and provides space for all to experiment with glass art creation.

“At the studio, you can shop our beautiful collection of handmade glass artwork. You can come create your own masterpieces with our guidance (for ages five and up) and with over 160 pro-jects to choose from, and you can make an impact,” Stirrett said.

In her personal artwork, Stirrett works with float glass in innovative ways to create original art that can be found in public,

private, and corporate installations in the Pacific Northwest. Stirrett is also passionate about making an impact in her community and abroad.

“My art is eclectic and connected to nature. I love creating but what I love most of all is that my artwork gives back,” Stirrett said. “Your purchase has power, where each sale helps fund our mission. Locally, we help set women free from the sex trafficking trade. Globally, we have been traveling to Burkina Faso, West Africa for the last eight years, and now Liberia to help women start in-country sustainable businesses and fund trade schools.”

Along with beautiful glass artwork, the Creative Warrior studio offers classes, open studio time, and private events. The DIY

workspace is located at the back of the shop with all the tools needed to create an original piece of glass art. Once the glass piece is chosen, the studio team assists in educating on how to stain the glass using frit or decorating with pieces of already stained glass to make a mosaic. The scheduled classes include a glass starfish set, African sand butter-flies, and mosaic garden stakes.

“The ambiance inside the studio is contagious and has a sweet inviting spirit,” Stirrer said. “We love our local community and are always excited to see and connect with new faces.”

LISA STIRRETT CREATIVE WARRIOR STUDIO

9536 Silverdale Way NW

Silverdale

lisastirrett.com

HARBOR HILL DENTISTRY AND AIRWAY CENTER

Whole Body Dentistry

At Harbor Hill Dentistry and Airway Center in Gig Harbor, their approach to dental care goes beyond traditional dentistry and embraces the philosophy of Treating the Cause, Not the Symptom. Led by Dr. Keith Gressell, a Temple University School of Dentistry graduate, this approach incorporates an overall health method he acquired while stationed in Europe as a Captain in the US Army.

According to Office Manager and spokesperson for Harbor Hill, Sarah Hamlin, “Dr. Gressell likes to find the cause of the symptoms and track it back to the source.” The practice is especially attuned to finding airway issues like sleep apnea and treating the obstruction before it becomes an issue for the patient.

The office is equipped with state-of-the-art technology and their whole-body approach to treatment delivers quality dental care that focuses on the root cause of a patient’s issues. In addition to traditional general dentistry, Harbor Hill includes cosmetic dentistry, laser dentistry, aesthetic dentistry and myofunctional therapy, which is basically physical therapy for your jaws and tongue.

While whole body dentistry isn’t the norm just yet, it isn’t a fad either. “This style has been picking up steam in the last five years and I wouldn’t be surprised if you start to see this method applied in more locations,” said Hamlin. By combining his US training with his experience working in a European

environment, Dr. Gressell is always looking to adapt and improve the quality of care he provides, so he can better his patients’ dental health, well-being, and lives.

Following his time in the Army, Dr. Gressell spent time in private practice in Germany and then in San Antonio, Texas before moving to his wife Jackie’s hometown of Gig Harbor in 2017. Then the Gressells bought the practice in May of 2022, offering comprehensive care for all ages.

BY LYNN CASTLE

“Our ever-evolving treatment philosophy is to maintain a focus on each patient’s overall health and well-being. My mantra is, and always will be, to treat every patient as a whole, not just a hole in a tooth,” said Dr. Gressell recently.

harborhilldentistry.com

HARBOR HILL DENTISTRY AND AIRWAY CENTER

HOLISTIC WELLNESS FOR ALL AT

YMCA of Pierce and Kitsap Counties

The YMCA of Pierce and Kitsap Counties has programs for physical health, community engagement, and fun for all ages. The YMCA is committed to equity, safety, and community impact and offers both in-person and online fitness options, including events such as tournaments. Their vision is to “create opportunity so all can thrive in every season of life.”

The YMCA recently launched a hybrid fitness experience which includes both the ability to drop into locations for in-person classes and

to stream on-demand fitness classes and programs at any time. YMCA360, the virtual platform, provides members with not only fitness classes such as core, barre and Pilates, but also with wellness guidance on nutrition, recovery and more. This assists in creating a holistic health experience for members that centers on wellness. This hybrid program could be a great choice for busy, on-the-go professionals and parents who need the flexibility of exercise from their homes and the option for in-person community activities.

Looking for a new hobby that includes physical activity and fun? Jump on the new trend of pickleball! The YMCA is hosting a monthly pickleball tournament, “Real Dill,” starting at the end of March, no partner needed. Pickleball is growing in popularity due to its accessible and social nature and is a great way to meet the community. Members can join the excitement for just $10.

The YMCA is also home to childcare and summer camp programs to empower the younger generations. By meeting with constituents including local educators and administrators, the YMCA develops youth education and sports experiences to meet the needs of the community.

With their holistic approach to health and wellness and programs available for all generations, the YMCA is a great place to engage with the community and prioritize physical health in the best way for everyone’s individual needs. As stated on their website, the YMCA is “a community dedicated to your success in spirit, mind, and body.”

The YMCA of Pierce and Kitsap Counties has locations near Puyallup, Lakewood, Tacoma, Gig Harbor, and Bremerton.

Classes Offer Big Health and Wellness Benefits to Seniors YOGA

BENEFITS OF PRACTICING YOGA AS A SENIOR INCLUDE:

YOGA IMPROVES FLEXIBILITY AND JOINT

HEALTH

Flexibility and joint mobility is not about reaching your toes, but about creating a suppleness in the body that will prevent injury and strain over time. When you are flexible, you are less likely to get injured doing basics tasks like bending over to pick something up.

YOGA IMPROVES BALANCE AND STABILITY

A lack of balance is the number one reason seniors give at Tuladhara Yoga for wanting to try yoga. Certain yoga poses, such as tree pose, are beneficial and can improve balance, which leads to less falls and better focus and stability.

YOGA CAN IMPROVE RESPIRATION

Yoga and exercise can improve respiration. Breathing exercises in particular can help improve lung capacity.

YOGA CAN HELP REDUCE DEPRESSION AND ANXIETY

Gentle yoga classes offers many benefits to seniors or those with mobility concerns. “It has been wonderful to watch our seniors build a sense of community, improve their health, improve flexibility and balance, and build strength. Additionally, seniors can experience higher rates of depression and anxiety. If you’re a senior, yoga can be a game changer for your health,” says Alicia Barrett, owner at Tuladhara Yoga.

Safety should be the number one priority in any physical exercise including yoga. Yoga, like any exercise, can come with risks, so being led by a certified experienced instructor is critical. It is also important to be cleared by your doctor to practice yoga.

Yoga classes, especially those geared toward seniors, are calm, relaxing and restorative. Yoga involves focusing on the breath and slow movements, which can help trigger your parasympathetic nervous system, bringing us into the “rest and digest” phase of stress relief.

GOING TO A YOGA CLASS IS FUN AND CAN BUILD A SENSE OF COMMUNITY

Sometimes we forget that as we age, we lose our friends and loved ones and therefore a sense of belonging and community. A yoga class is a great way to make new friends, stay connected, laugh and have fun with others.

TULADHARA YOGA tuladharayoga.com

Warm-Weather Wellness Tips for Seniors

BY KELLY LENIHAN

Warmer weather often awakens a desire to get outside and be active. But seniors who have a higher sensitivity to heat need to use caution when making plans in the sun.

PUT ON YOUR WALKING SHOES

Walking is an excellent physical activity. And doing so in a park or forest is a great way to connect with nature. Joining a group can also be an easy way to meet new friends. Choose terrain—and supportive shoes—suitable for your activity level and balance.

TAKE AN EXERCISE CLASS

Get your endorphins flowing! Yoga, pilates or tai chi can all improve balance and flexibility, decreasing the chance of falling. Water aerobics is good for those with arthritis or chronic pain. Or try low-impact sports such as horseshoes, miniature golf, bocce ball, bean bags, badminton or croquet.

GET OUTSIDE AND GARDEN

Gardening can be as calming and relaxing as an hour of meditation. Digging, planting and weeding can improve strength, flexibility and agility. If you don’t have a garden, consider volunteering at a local park.

LIGHTEN UP YOUR DIET

With fruits and vegetables coming into season, it’s time to enjoy salads, light soups and other lighter fare. Farmers markets provide an opportunity to get outdoors and select healthful foods for dinner.

STAY HYDRATED

As we age, our ability to notice thirst may decrease, so keep an eye on your water intake, especially when you’re outdoors in the sun. At home, drink water and herbal tea rather than other beverages.

WATCH FOR ALLERGIES

Summertime can mean allergy season, so pay attention to allergy forecasts. Untreated allergies are uncomfortable and can lead to breathing problems or sinus infections. Your doctor can recommend or prescribe a treatment to help prevent serious respiratory problems.

CHECK THE SIDE EFFECTS OF YOUR PRESCRIPTIONS

Some medications increase sun sensitivity. Find out whether you need to take extra precautions. Following other suggestions on this list will help you avoid problems.

RELISH THE OUTDOORS

Enjoy the great outdoors with a picnic! Just remember to pick an area with comfortable seating and shade, even if it’s in your own backyard. Bird-watching and photography are two other pastimes to stimulate the mind and body. If you love to shop, flea markets are a fun summertime activity. Just remember to protect yourself with sunglasses, a wide-brimmed hat, sunscreen and bug repellent.