My Resolution Is To Be Happy - How Hard Can That Be?

What is life for? It is for you. - Abraham Maslow

Each New Year resolutions are made. Each February resolutions are broken. I am as guilty of this pattern as anyone.

I can't imagine a more difficult year than 2009, so 2010 brings hope and optimism. But I for one, am not making a resolution for 2010. Instead, I am strategizing....what is it that I want and how do I achieve it? I'm turning to Dr. Seuss for inspiration;

You have a brain in your head, and feet in your shoes

You can steer yourself, any direction you choose

You're on your own and you know what you know

And you are the one, who'll decide where to go

I have a book that inspired me for this blog. It's called "Where Will You Be Five Years From Today?" by Dan Zadra. This book has reinforced for me the personal decisions I have made during 2009...and inspired me to stay on track. My five year goals reflect my personal values. MY personal values. Not my employer, my community or even my family. Although all of my values are in line with these groups and people - if they weren't I wouldn't be very happy would I?

My mission in life is to be happy.

What is your mission? Choose a personal mission rather than making a resolution and work toward that in a realistic way all year long and not just in January. Being happy is what it is about...what makes me happy is my family first, my friends second, my community third. My job is not even in the top three is it? But the way it should work is, that if I am happy and accomplishing my personal mission and goals, then my job will be fulfilling as well.

I don't have this down pat yet. But I am working on it. And I expect it to continue to be a work in progress.

If success is not on your terms- if it looks good to the world but does not feel good in your heart-it is no success at all. - Anna Quindlen

In January I turn 50. This monumental event may be partially responsible for my philosophical thinking....but I know from years of trial and error, that there is nothing more important in life than happiness. I encourage you to evaluate your life and ask yourself "Am I happy?" Give yourself permission to be happy.

Most people don't aim too high and miss. They aim too low and hit. - Bob Moawad

Join me in aiming high Gig Harbor. And smile while you are doing it.

Happy New Year.

A Message From Gig Harbor Police Chief Mike Davis

When I heard the dispatcher call Pierce County Sheriff's Deputy Kent Mundell's personnel number out of service last night at 5:04 p.m., I experienced an all too familiar sensation of shock and sadness. I stopped in my tracks - how could this happen again?
For a moment in time my concerns for getting work done, solving problems, pushing for deadlines seemed so meaningless. Infinitely more important than such routine matters, is dealing with the loss of one who was like a family member to those of us that work in public safety. At such times I am at a loss for words to express the immense value of Kent's life, one who served with such a a capable hand and courageous heart. Kent's passing will leave a void that we cannot fill by ourselves, we will need help.
On behalf of my department and community, I want Sheriff Paul Pastor, the Pierce County Sheriff's Department and Kent's family to know we will cherish his memory. His bravery and sacrifice will serve as a lasting legacy for those of us left behind - tasked with keeping anarchy from overcoming the order we have become so accustomed to in this country.
Pause with me now and, in your own way, reflect on what traits we need to emulate as a community as we contemplate what tasks remain for us to accomplish to ensure Kent's death was not in vain. We want his family to know that we will miss him. Our hearts and prayers are with you at this most difficult time.
Mike Davis
Chief of Police
Gig Harbor Police Department

H1N1 Vaccine Available in Pierce County

From Pierce County Health Department
More than 238,000 H1N1 flu doses were distributed for vaccination during 2009 in response to the swine flu outbreak started last spring.
Director of Health Dr. Anthony Chen said the Tacoma -Pierce county Health Department approved 238,290 vaccine doses for shipment throughout the county by Washington State Department of Health. Of that number TPCHD's vaccine office distributed 37,406 doses. the remainder was sent directly from DOH to health care providers, pharmacies and other retail stores.
In contrast to earlier this year, H1N1 vaccine is in good supply and the Health Department encourages everyone to be vaccinated. Available vaccination clinics can be found at www.tpchd.org.

Upcoming free H1N1 vaccination opportunities:
Wed Dec 30th from 10a-1p and 2p-6p at Bridge Children's Health Center East Wing. Open to all people 6 months of age or older.
Wed Dec 30th from 10a-6p at the Tacoma Pierce County Health Department auditorium, 3629 S. D Street, Tacoma.

Tree Recycling Available in Pierce County

From Pierce County Solid Waste

Make a New Year's resolution to help protect the environment by recycling your Christmas tree. Pierce County residents can recycle their discarded trees through the Public Works and Utilities department, various cities and towns and county-contracted private solid waste and recycling companies.

All trees collected through the self-haul and curbside yardwaste programs are composted into a beneficial soil amendment that is popular with home and commercial gardeners. Treecycling helps save valuable landfill space, while the composte created enhances soil quality, saves water and reduces reliance on chemical fertilizers.

Pierce County residents who subscribe to yardwaste collection services can "treecycle" their unflocked tree curbside. Other residents can recycle trees free of charge at designated locations. Flocked trees cannot be recycled and must be disposed of as garbage.

Milton, Tacoma, Puyallup and Ruston have special collection programs for households within their limits. Contact the city or town hall or local garbage hauler for more details.

To recycle a tree in Pierce County, remove the tree stand, tinsel, decorations, garland, nails and staples.

to recycle curbside, cut the tree into 4 foot lengths or smaller and place loosely inside the yardwaste container. If it doesn't all fit, dispose of the peices over several weeks on the regularly scheduled yardwaste pick up days.

Self haulers can take their tree to any of the following locations;

• Anderson Island residential waste drop box, 9607 Steffenson Road, Sunday from 10a-2p and Monday from 1p-5p


• Hidden Valley transfer station, 17925 Meridian Street East near South Hill, 8a-5:45p, seven days a week


• Key Center residential waste drop box, 5900 Key Pen Hwy, between Key Center and Home, Wed-Sun, 9a-4:45p


• Prairie Ridge residential waste drop box, 11710 Prairie Ridge Dr between Bonney Lake and South Prairie, 9a-4:45p seven days a week


• Purdy transfer station, 14515 54th AVe NW north of Gig Harbor, 9a-4:45p seven days a week.

All facilities above will be closed on New Years Day. For additional drop-off sites, call the Public Works and Utilities 24-hour solid waste information line at (253) 798-4115 or go to www.piercecountywa.org/treecycle.

Treecycling - its the right thing to do.

Are You Ready for Steppin' UP?

The 4th annual Steppin' Up Women's Conference is the South Sound's premier forum for women hosted by the Best Western Wesley Inn of Gig Harbor. The mission of Steppin' Up is to rejuvenate, inspire and educate women to make positive changes in their lives and in the lives of others. the conference has grown from a leadership initiative for working professionals into a network of women from all walks of life, backgrounds and perspectives. And a life-changing experience for hundreds of women who have attended. This year, the conference will start Saturday January 23rd and end Sunday January 24th. There will be a variety of speakers, sessions, and events including money saving tips, organizing ideas for home and travel, healthy lifestyle advice and workout routines.

Keynote speaker this year will be local news anchor Margo Myers.

The conference is held at the beautiful Wesley Inn hotel in Gig Harbor WA. General admission is $50 and great discounted room rates are also available. Learn more at http://www.wesleyinn.com/.

January is a great month to be Steppin' UP!

City of Gig Harbor Receives Federal Grant Money

President Obama signed appropriations bill last week that included two federal grants for the City of Gig Harbor;

1.) $1.4M from the Federal Transportation Community & System Preservation Program sponsored by Senator Patty Murray for continuing the Donkey Creek day-lighting project. The Donkey Creek project had already received $800K grant from the Federal Department of the Interior, sponsored by Congressman Norm Dicks. Combining these two grants provides the City of Gig Harbor the money needed to design and begin construction on this project which includes day-lighting the creek, replacing the underground pipe with a fish-friendly culvert and building a pedestrian friendly bridge. Gig Harbor City Councilman Tim Payne says "This is a dream come true! The restoration of Donkey Creek will bring attention to the importance and influence of salmon on one of Gig Harbor's earliest industries: commercial fishing."

2.) $730 K from the Federal Housing and Urban Development Economic Development Initiative Program sponsored by Senator Patty Murray, for the Gig Harbor Boys & Girls Hope Center for programming and capital campaign. This money will be added to the $250K the City of Gig Harbor has already committed to the new Boys and Girls Club. Councilman Derek Young says "Obtaining these funds for the Boys and Girls Club means that they can expand programming that would have otherwise not been available in Gig Harbor. Support for the club from our congressional delegation has been critical throughout the process."

NOW AVAILABLE, Gig Harbor WildWatch guide to the Puget Sound

Gig Harbor's Harbor WildWatch (501(c)3) has published Puget Sound's Wildside, A Natural History of Puget Sound's Marine Environment.

Now available for sale, this beautiful book is generating excitement among environmental organizations, beach watcher and shore steward programs, aquarium staff, libraries and the academic community.

"...clean, crisp, easy to read text filled with great facts that will excite the reader to head down to the beach and explore all aspects of our marine environment", said Alan Rammer, Marine Community Outreach & Environmental Education Specialist for WA Dept, of Fish & Wildlife."

"...provides excellent overview of much of the Puget Sound marine environment and threats to its health and survival. In a short and beautifully illustrated manual, one can become engaged with some of the history, major habitats, common animals and plants and our impact on this major marine ecosystem." said Ernest L. Karlstrom PHD. Biology (retired) University of Puget Sound.

The scientific information contained with the book is written in layman's terms and illustrated with colorful original artwork and drawings. The book features:

• FAST FACTS boxes, offering the reader a fascinating fact about the subject being discussed


• TYING IT TOGETHER pages at the end of each chapter, explains the dynamic interrelationship of the subjects being discussed in that section.


• BOUND in sturdy 100# 30% post consumer recycled cover, and 80# 30% post consumer recycled FSC certified Knightskote white text, the 8.5 x 11 book is well suited for disassembling and placing in loose leaf binder by punching the pages or preserving in page savers.

This book is truly a one of kind, user friendly book perfect for class room, family room or waiting room. Everyone will love this beautiful learning resource.

Harbor WildWatch has been working in the greater Gig Harbor area for several years now educating anyone and everyone about the Puget Sound ecosystem. Learn more about this dynamic organization and its volunteer based programs at http://www.harborwildwatch.org/

The books are currently available at Mostly Books in Gig Harbor and the Gig Harbor Visitor Information Center as well as the Seattle Aquarium. Additional locations will be announced soon. The book is also available on line at http://www.harborwildwatch.org/

Get yours today!

Don't Trash Your Recycling Cart!

Reprinted from EARTH MATTERS, Environmental News from Pierce County.

Are you putting trash in your recycling cart?

Pierce County households averaged 1 pound of nonrecyclables in the recycling cart each month last year. Now the average is up to 13/4 pounds per month - a 75% increase.

Nonrecyclable materials make trucks fill up faster. That requires more routes, more labor, more fuel and higher costs.

Costs also increase because more sorting is needed ot separate contaminates from potential recyclables.

To keep our contamination low, here are a few suggestions:

Plastic bags, styrofoam and clamshell containers are contaminants that cannot be collected in our curbside program.

Lets review: Plastic bottles must have a neck smaller than a base. For example: bottles that contained water, soda, ketchup or shampoo.

We cannot recycle plasitc containers without a "neck" such as margarine tubs, yougurt containers, clamshell containers and drinking cups.

Plastic bags and glass need to be recycled in other ways. They damage machines and may injure workers during the sorting process.

Glass shards also get caught in paper and other materials, lowering their value for manufacturers.

It's a step backward when we consider the positive growth. Since our single cart recycling program began in 2005, households are recycling 64% more paper, 94% more aluminum and 33% more tin cans.

Also noteworkth: Each household recycles an average of 34 plastic bottles (20 oz size) per month.

Here are examples of the leading trouble shpots and tips to help solve the contamination problem.

PROBLEM: Plastic bags and film like shrink wrap. These materials get caught and wrap around the sorting machinery. Recyclables should be loose, not encolsed in a clear or black plastic bag.

TIP: Take plastic shopping bags to participting grocery stores for recycling. Use cloth or other reusable shopping bags just one could save 100-200 plastic bags per year.

PROBLEM: Butter tubs, yougurt-type containers and bottles from pesticides, herbicides or authomotive fluids. Containers with a recycling symbol may not necessarily be recyclable.

Be sure to "check the neck". We only accept plastic bottles with an opning that's smaller than the base.

PROBLEM: Glass in our comingled recycling carts may injure workers and damage equipment in the sorthing facility. Broken glass also ends up in bales of recycled paper, damaging expensive equipment at paper mills.

TIP: Glass collected at various drop-off sites is emptied directly into shipping containers and marketed.

For more information on being a responsible recycler visit http://www.piercecountywa.org/ or call (253) 798-2179.

New Years Eve in Gig Harbor

Gig Harbor offers several restaurants to dine at on New Years Eve, before going back to your safe and cozy home to ring in the New Year. This sounds like the perfect evening to me! Here's a list of ideas;

Anthonys Restaurant serving off their regular menu until 10pm

Tanglewood Grill, last dinner seating at 9pm and bar open until midnight

Harvester, a great family option, closing at 7pm, 851-8500

Sip Restaurant and Wine Bar, specials on the menu and open until 1am

Tides Tavern, open until 8pm

Be safe this New Years!

http://www.gigharborguide.com/

News from the Gig Harbor Boat Shop

The Gig Harbor Boat Shop, at Eddon Boat is working hard on programming and events. They are now open every Saturday from 11am-2pm and invite the public to some see what they are doing. Visitors to the Boat Shop will now see volunteers demonstrating boat repair techniques.

Thunderbird Hull #2 is off the trailer and onto the cradle that volunteers made. She was inched into the building, which took four hours, and now rests safe and comfortably inside the building. Special thanks go out to Peninsula Light for helping lift Hull #2 onto the cradle. The boat made it under the beam over the inner door with only 1.5 inches to spare! Now the work begins on restoration. Once completed, the restored vessel will become part of the on-the-water training programs planned by the Boat Shop.

Thanks go out to Cook's Concrete for the temporary use of their flatbed trailer, which will be used for moving a classic 26' Gig Harbor built tugboat to the BoatShop for repair. Once restored, it will also become part of the on-the-water training program.

The Gig Harbor BoatShop was recently awarded a gift of more than $11,000 from the Emily Hall Tremaine Foundation. In addition, The BoatShop received a $10,000 gift from an anonymous donor. These generous gifts are a great stride toward the goal of operating the boatyard full time. You can join the effort by donating today. It's easy to donate from the website at http://www.gigharborboatshop.org/.

Volunteers are always needed. Stop by on Saturday to learn more!

MUSIC IN GIG HARBOR

Coming to our beautiful community this weekend are two wonderful holdiay performances by local groups. After you finish trimming the tree and baking the cookies and wrapping the gifts, take a moment to both enjoy and support two of our finest musical performing groups;

Saturday December 19th 7PM at Milt Boyd Auditorium, Peninsula High School, 14105 Purdy Dr

Concert by the Gig Harbor Peninsula Civic Orchestra

Monrning Noon and Night, a Winter Concert

http://www.ghporchestra.com/

Sunday December 20th 6PM at St. John Episcopal Church, 7701 Skansie Avenue

Concert by the Peninsula Community Chorus

Messiah Sing-A-Long

http://www.peninsulachorus.org/

Merry Christmas!

The Gig Harbor Twelve Days of Christmas

On the first day of Christmas my true love gave to me -

A Mountain view from my Christmas Tree

On the second day of Christmas my true love gave to me-

Two Holiday Plays and

A Mountain view from my Christmas Tree

On the third day of Christmas my true love gave to me -

Three Tree Lightings

Two Holiday Plays and

A Mountain view from my Christmas Tree

On the fourth day of Christmas my true love gave to me -

Four shopping areas

Three Tree Lightings

Two Holiday Plays and

A Mountain view from my Christmas Tree

On the fifth day of Christmas my true love gave t0 me -

Five beers at the Tides

Four shopping areas

Three Tree lightings

Two Holiday Plays and

A Mountain view from my Christmas Tree

On the sixth day of Christmas my true love gave to me-

Six wine tastings

Five beers at the Tides

Four shopping areas

Three Tree Lightings

Two Holiday Plays and

A Mountain view from my Christmas tree

On the seventh day of Christmas my true love gave to me -

Seven Seas Brewery

Six wine tastings

Five beers at the Tides

Four shopping areas

Three tree lightings

Two Holiday Plays and

A Mountain view from my Christmas Tree

On the eighth day of Christmas my true love gave to me -

Eight local fisherman

Seven Seas Brewery

Six wine tastings

Five beers at the Tides

Four shopping areas

Three Tree Lightings

Two Holiday Plays and

A Mountain View from my Christmas Tree

On the ninth day of Christmas my true love gave to me -

Nine art galleries

Eight local fisherman

Seven Seas Brewery

Six wine tastings

Five beers at the Tides

Four shopping areas

Three Tree Lightings

Two Holiday Plays and

A Mountain view from my Christmas Tree

On the tenth day of Christmas my true love gave to me-

Ten kayakers racing

Nine art galleries

Eight local fisherman

Seven Seas Brewery

Six wine tastings

Five beers at the Tides

Four shopping areas

Three Tree Lightings

Two Holiday Plays and

A Mountain view from my Christmas Tree

On the eleventh day of Christmas my true love gave to me-

Eleven Inns to stay in

Ten kayakers racing

Nine art galleries

Eight local fisherman

Seven Seas Brewery

Six wine tastings

Five beers at the Tides

Four shopping areas

Three tree lightings

Two Holiday Plays and

A Mountain view from my Christmas Tree

On the twelfth day of Christmas my true love gave to me-

Twelve Christmas Ships

Eleven Inns to stay in

Ten kayakers racing

Nine art galleries

Eight local fisherman

Seven Seas Brewery

Six wine tastings

Five beers at the Tides

Four shopping areas

Three tree lightings

Two Holiday Plays and

A Mountain View from my Christmas Tree

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year from the Gig Harbor Marketing Department

www.gigharborguide.com

Gig Harbor's Wesley Inn Celebrates 12th Anniversary

Saturday December 12th marks the 12th Anniversary of Gig Harbor's Wesley Inn hotel located at 6575 Kimball Drive. This beautiful hotel offers first class hospitality in beautifully appointed rooms.

Cassidy Glaspie, General Manager, was on the staff opening day, and now serves as GM. When the hotel opened, 20% of the rooms were ready. Today the inn operates with a total , 89 rooms. 29 beutiful new rooms were added last year.

The Wesley Inn is named after Wes Braaten, father of Ken Braaten. Ken and Sue Braaten are owner, operators of the property. Twelve years later, you can still find Wes stopping in for a cup of coffee on a regular basis.

Ken Braaten hand dug the stones that are now part of the beautiful river rock fireplace, one of two stunning focal points in the lobby. The other focal point is the historic sailboat that hangs from the celing in the lobby...formerly owned by Gig Harbor pioneer Claude Spadoni.

Over the years the Wesley has hosted some famous names; Herman's Hermits, The Lovin Spoomful, Jan & Dean, the crew from Extreme Home Makeover, BJ Thomas and Twila Paris.

The Wesley Inn invites you to visit their website and see the wonderful overnight specials and accommodations available. http://www.wesleyinn.com/

Cushman Trail to Open in Gig Harbor

A ribbon cutting ceremony will mark the official opening of Cushman Trail Phase Two, in Gig Harbor, on Wednesday December 16th at 2:30p.m. The public is invited.

Mayor Chuck Hunter and Pierce County Councilman Terry Lee will recognize the milestone, a project that has been a joint partnership development of Pierce County Parks and Recreation Department, the City of Gig Harbor and Tacoma Public Utilities. the trail connection design phase began in 2006 and included public input meetings in 2007 prior to design approval through the permitting process. The $3.5 million construction contract, which is shared by Pierce County and the City of Gig Harbor, began in September 2008.

The trail occupies land adjacent to or under the Cushman Power line. Phase 2, an additional 2.5 miles of 16" wide perviouse asphalt with a 4" gravel shoulder, is exclusively for non-motorized uses. This section continues the existing trail from the Pierce Transit Park & Ride om Kimball Drive, through Wilkinson Farm Park (City of Gig Harbor) and ending at 96th Street, just off Burnham Drive in the city limits.

A section of the trail between Foster Street and Wilkinson Farm Park is constructed on 400' long pin-pile bridge, which is required to minimize impacts to the wetland in the area. A lighted crosswalk has been installed across Rosedale Street. The trail provides dramatic scenery and natural resource area with trail slopes that vary from nearly level to a challenging 8%. The route crosses deep ravines with streams, wildlife viewing and views of Gig Harbor. The trail also provides Tacoma Public Utilities improved access to their power transmission facilities.

Future plans for continuing the trail to Gig Harbor North at Borgen Blvd. have been designed and permitted.

For additional information about the Cushman Trail or the Cushman Trail Phase Two ribbon cutting event please contact Terri Reed, City of Gig Harbor, (253) 851-6170.

http://www.cityofgigharbor.net/

Christmas Spirit Live and Well in Gig Harbor

This week is the pinnacle for holiday activities in beautiful Gig Harbor. Whether you are looking for shopping options, entertainment, lovely lights & decorations, or messages of goodwill, you will find it in Gig Harbor.

As always to see a complete list of all things going on in Gig Harbor you can visit http://www.gigharborguide.com/.

THURSDAY December 10th it's Ho Ho Harbor Holidays at Uptown

FRIDAY - SUNDAY December 11-13th it's CandleLight Christmas in the Harbor, downtown

FRIDAY - SUNDAY December 11-13th it's A Christmas Story at Paradise Theatre

FRIDAY-SATURDAY December 11-12th it's Oliver at Encore! Theater

SATURDAY December 12th it's the HarborFest Holiday Tour of Homes

SATURDAY December 12th it's the Gig Harbor Lighted Boat Parade

SATURDAY December 12th Gig Harbor Peninsula Symphony Orchestra presents holiday concert

SUNDAY December 13th Christmas Concert at LDS Church

MONDAY December 14th HARK the Harbor, new event, community caroling and arrival of Argosy Cruise Ship, 7pm at Skansie Brothers Park

It might be cold, but the community breaths warmth into this holiday season through all the wonderful things they do. See details on these and many other events at http://www.gigharborguide.com/. Happy Holidays!

3/50 Project Make it Happen Gig Harbor

We have businesses in our beautiful community that are hanging on by their fingernails. Everyone talks about how much they love our community and particularly our downtown. But if you really love it, it's time to step up!

This morning I made an appeal to all the fans on our Facebook Fan Page gigharborguidehttp://www.facebook.com/home.php?#/pages/gigharborguidecom/132049134029?ref=nf

I asked all 304 fans to spend $50 at three stores, and for each fan to get one additional friend to spend $50 at three stores.

$150 by 608 people would pour more than $90K into our local economy. IT'S VERY EASY. We must take it seriously NOW!!

THIS IS NOT THE TIME TO SHOP ON LINE. PLEASE DON'T TAKE YOU HOLIDAY SHOPPING DOLLARS TO THE TACOMA MALL.

We need to step up and take responsibility here in the community that we all love!! BUSINESSES WILL CLOSE AT THE END OF THE YEAR IF WE DO NOT PATRONIZE THEM NOW.

Yesterday I spent more than $100 at a local jeweler. Today I am out searching for some sailing gear for my son. I know I can find it downtown. I printed a list of "must reads" from a friend of mine who is a librarian at the Seattle Public Library. I will buy or order these books at the local book store.

THIS IS NOT HARD TO DO.

JUST DO IT! DO IT, DO IT, DO IT. There just are no acceptable excuses for not shopping LOCAL!

It's Ho Ho Harbor Holidays at Gig Harbor Uptown

Thursday December 10th come to Uptown in Gig Harbor for the second annual Ho Ho Harbor Holidays event! This event is co-sponsored by the Uptown merchants and the Gig Harbor Mid-Day Rotary Club.

Start the evening off right Sip. at the wine bar and restaurant. Bring your friends, significant other or co-workers and enjoy a fashion show, appetizers, wine, cooking demonstrations and more from 3-5PM. Reservations for this part of the event are required ($40) call (253) 853-3020.

Following the Sip. event enjoy shopping and festive specials through out Uptown from 5PM- close. You'll find fabulous gifts to satisfy everyone on your holiday list, all while keeping your shopping dollars right here in Gig Harbor. Participating merchants include;

• Adam & Eve


• Bloom


• Chicos


• Coldwater Creek


• Elandan Gallery


• Heart


• Indigo Plum


• J Jill


• Julep Salon


• Teaching Toys


• Tuscan Sanctuary


• SC Decor


• Possum's Boutique


• Pizzeria Fondi


• Panera Bread


• Massage Envy


• Lele


• Posh Paw


• Justice for Girls


• Jamba Juice


• Games Workshop


• Galaxy Theatre


• Daddy O's Board Room


• Cutter's Point


• Borders


• Blazing Onion


• Ben & Jerry's


• AT&T


• Ann Taylor Loft

Delight in the holiday ambiance of strolling carolers, delicious refreshments and an opportunity to win a Palm Desert Vacation.

Proceeds from this event go to support Med-Day Rotary community programs such as Fish Food Bank and youth education.

http://www.siprestaurant.com/ www.uptowngigharbor.com

Gig Harbor Holiday Tour of Homes Next Weekend

The HarborFest Holiday Tour of Homes has become a traditional way to start the holidays in gig Harbor. 2009 looks to be one of the best ones yet, with homes from Canterwood to Cromwell, the tour offers an inside look at some incredible decorated private homes - a special peek into beautifully decorated homes of the harbor. Some locations home baked treats and hot drinks will be available while in other homes holiday music will be provided by the Peninsula Youth Orchestra.

The 14th annual HarborFest Tour of Homes, conducted by the Altrusa Foundation of Gig Harbor, will be held on Saturday December 12th from 10AM - 4PM. Tickets and programs will be available at The INN at Gig Harbor after 9:30AM on the 12th.

The annual HarborFest Tour of Homes is Altrusas primary fund raiser, raising money to support Altrusa projects such as the Community Kitchen at the new Boys & Girls Club/Senior Center, the Peninsula Youth Orchestra and Altrusa Serving Kids program.

"It's hard to imagine how the homeowners do it," said Shirley Hanson, Altrusa Foundation President, "but every year the decorations seem to be more exciting!".

Tickets for the tour are $20 in advance or $25 the day of the event. Advance tickets are available at John L. Scott on Olympic Drive, Kitsap Credit Union on Point Fosdick or Gig Harbor North Branch, Watersedge Gallery on Pioneer Way or the Gig Harbor Chamber of Commerce, or from any Altrusa member.

For ticket information contact (253) 858-0088

NEVER A DULL WEEKEND IN GIG HARBOR

Every weekend is a holiday in Gig Harbor, particularly this one! There is so much to do in Gig Harbor this weekend. For details check out the calendar at http://www.gigharborguide.com/.

Here's a taste;

• Friday Night at Chapel Hill 7pm Candlelight Vigil for Lakewood Officers
• Fri-Sun Encore Theater last weekend for Oliver
• Fri-Sun Paradise Theatre continues with A Christmas Story
• Sat Sharon's Consignment Open House
• Sat & Sunday Tidefest at Gig Harbor High School
• Sat is Gig Harbor First Saturday Art Walk
• Fri & Sat Eagles Holiday Bazaar
• Wine Tastings around town
• Saturday Eddon Boat Shop Public Tours
• Saturday Fox Island Market
• Sat/Sunday great stuff at Rosedale Gardens
• Sunday Ladies Night at Peninsula Gardens
• Sunday Peninsula Community Chorus performs

And lots of Tree Lightings

SATURDAY Gig Harbor Tree Lighting

SUNDAY Fox Island and Key Peninsula Tree Lightings.

The weather is great - the community is great, the shopping is great...why wouldn't you be in Gig Harbor this weekend?? http://www.gigharborguide.com/

Gig Harbor Sip Welcomes Robert Green, Executive Chef

Lane Scelzi, owner and founder of Sip. at the wine bar & restaurant, is happy to announce the promotion of Chef de Cuisine Robert Green to Executive Chef.

Green, who has been sith Sip. Gig Harbor since doors opened in March 2009, brings to the position 23 years of culinary experience in restaurants, hotels and country clubs across the United States.

To say Chef Green has enjoyed a varied, colorful career is an understatement. He went from the U.S. Marine Corps to French culinary school, and then apprenticed with Jim Hughes, National Chef of tje Year (1979). He also trained with renowned master of Cajun food, Chef Paul Prudhomme and Chef Mark Miller, an authority on Southwest cuisine.

Currently a proud Gig Harbor residemt, he settled in the Northwest five years ago and helmed the kitchen at Gig Harbor's award-winning Brix 25 (2004-2005) before becoming Sip.'s Chef de Cuisine.

His culinary philosophy can best be summed up in three words: "Simple is better." Green combines classical technique with fresh, local, seasonal ingredients and lets the essence of the food speak for itself.

Sip. invites you to explore Chef Greens cuisine on Thursday December 10th 3-5pm at a special Ho Ho Harbor Holidays event. Enjoy Appetizer Bar and wine pours, Chef demonstration, fashion show and more as Uptown Gig Harbor celebrates Ho Ho Harbor Holidays. $40 per person. Reservations for this event should be made soon. Call 253 853-3020.

Or stop by Sip. anytime to enjoy the wonderful cuisine of Chef Green.

http://www.siprestaurant.com/

Gig Harbor Tree Lighting on Saturday

One of Gig Harbor's favorite events among the locals is the annual tree lighting event held the first Saturday of December every year. Since it's inception more than 20 years ago the community has come together each year in holiday spirit to celebrate together.

This years event on Dec 5th begins at 5pm with music by the Peninsula Community Chorus and special activities by Harbor WildWatch. CenturyLink and the City of Gig Harbor sponsor the event and provide free Santa hats and glow necklaces.

The Gig Harbor Historic Waterfront Association provides cookies and cider for free and this year Fort Lewis will be honored for their community support. Each year Fort Lewis provides the beautiful 40 foot tree that is installed at the park by City crews.

Santa arrives around 5:30pm via Pierce County Gig Harbor Fire Truck and the tree is lit! Santa then spends time meeting with all the children in the park.

This event is a wonderful, fun, free, family, festive tradition in beautiful Gig Harbor, right on the waterfront. Join us!

Turkey Trot Totally Terrific!

The sixth annual Gig Harbor Turkey Trot that took place on Thanksgiving morning was another terrific successes. Holmes Chiropractic, the organizers of the event told us today that over 1600 participant braved the November weather for a fun morning full of funny hats and lots of money and canned goods raised for Gig Harbor's FISH Food Bank.

In addition to all the Gig Harbor Trotters, simultaneously in Iraq nearly 300 soldiers ran and also raised money for the cause. The Iraqi leg of the race was organized by CPT Laura Jeffrey, Critical Care Flight Nurse, 47th Combat Support Hospital and Gig Harbor resident. This photo shows her with Lt. Penny Decker also of Gig Harbor.

Gig Harbor has a lot to be thankful for, now and through out the year. Particularly we should be thankful for those serving in Iraq, people like Dr. Tim Holmes and his staff whose endless energy makes Turkey Trot a success, all those who braved the weather and the wonderful volunteers of the FISH Food Bank that serves so many in need around the Gig Harbor Peninsula.

A Message From Gig Harbor Police Chief Mike Davis

It is hard to comprehend the tremendous loss our close knit law enforcement family experienced on Sunday with the senseless murder of four of our comrades. It causes us all to reflect on how truly vulnerable we are when we suit up for duty each day. This is a challenging time for law enforcement in America; I only hope it is not the start of a terrible trend.

Our hearts and prayers go out to the members of the Lakewood Police and the families of our four friends. I assure you the courageous and brave individuals who have chosen this profession and the families that support them will survive this very tragic event and become even stronger...to do otherwise would render this great loss in vain.

As a community, I think this event should reinforce our resolve to support the men and women who have dedicated themselves to protect others. Every law enforcement officer faces not only their own daily family responsibilities we all encounter, but also the duty to protect the families of others. And these tasks are all done before self.

As a department we sent two officers to the scene immediately after the call for help came out on Sunday. We will continue to support the Lakewood Police Department with whatever they need to insure the person responsible for this travesty is brought to justice. I appreciate the outpouring of support toward our own officers as we feel the same grief as our peers and I hope that the public at large understands the magnitude of the inherent dangers we face daily.

Peace be with the law enforcement officers taken from us on Sunday. And may an even greater peace come to the families of these brave officers who can say that the sacrifice of their loved ones have made a positive difference in our world.

VIGIL SET FOR FRIDAY NIGHT

Local Gig Harbor area citizens are organizing a Candlelight Vigil for Friday December 4th at 7pm at Chapel Hill Church, 7700 Skansie Avenue in Gig Harbor. The public is invited. For additional information contact Vicki Hoefer at (253) 857-0555

DONATIONS FOR THE FAMILIES http://www.policeone.com/police-heroes/articles/1971152-Information-from-the-Lakewood-Police-Independent-Guild-Charitable-Fund/

Two Gig Harbor Favorites Offer Up New Choices

The day before and the day after Thanksgiving are always big dining out days. I think I heard once that the day before Thanksgiving is the busiest pizza ordering day of the year. It makes sense because who want to cook dinner when you are up to your eyeballs in breadcrumbs and giblets!

Before you order that pizza, remember that Gig Harbor is blessed with some quick, simple, inexpensive and delicious dining options. You'll feel better anyway to get out of the house for an hour. Take a trip to the historic waterfront district and enjoy. The downtown area of Gig Harbor is bookended with two favorites, both now offering some great new options;

ANTHONY'S in the Finholm area has fantastic Happy Hour options in the bar, daily from 4-6:30 p.m. The new Happy Hour menu is perfect for a quick, delicious and inexpensive bite. American Kobe Beef Sliders or Wild Silver Salmon Swimmers are only $3. Pair that with .50 oyster shooters, Shot Glass Shrimp Cocktail or $5 Hawaiian Ahi Nachos or Crispy Calamari. To drink during Happy Hour $3 draft beer, Margarita, Martini, Cosmo or Irish Coffee. Wine by the glass will run you a mere $5.

On the other end of town, the iconic TIDES TAVERN is always reliable and fun. Over the past few months the Tides has added dozens of new choices to its already delicious menu. Some of my favorites include the Portabella Mushroom Swiss Beef Burger, Cioppino, Crab Cake Sandwich, Teriyaki Salmon, Roasted Vegetable Salad with Feta. And you can never go wrong with the St. Louis Burger and a beer.

Take a break and enjoy Gig Harbor's dining options during this long holiday weekend. I'll probably see you there!

http://www.gigharborguide.com/

A CHRISTMAS STORY opens Friday at Paradise Theatre

My kids grew up with Jean Shepard's 1980's movie A CHRISTMAS STORY. More than any other holiday classic, that is the one that resonated with my family. My kids are grown now, but still today you often hear remarks around our house that reference lines from that film. Our favorite "Randy lay there like a slug", surpasses "fra-gi-le" but only by a smidgen. And we also love to make a "triple dog dare" or surprise someone with "a major award". In fact, if you visit my office you will see right here in my office, A CHRISTMAS STORY leg lamp, my own personal "major award".

If you have no idea what-so-ever what I'm talking about, then you have never seen the movie "A Christmas Story", a hilarious narrative on the life of a 10year old boy in post-war middle America who wants a special gift for Christmas. This story has now been made into a play and Gig Harbor's Paradise Theatre brings it to life on their newly remodeled stage. Vicki Richards of Paradise tells me that when they heard this story was being made into a play, they knew right away that they had to do it.

Ralphie Parker, desires one thing for Christmas, a Red Ryder Carbine Action 200 Shot Range Model Air Rifle with a Compass. And Ralphie will do almost anything for it...and along the way the mishaps and antics of his friends, brother, mother, father and many other memorable characters make this a classic for the entire family. There's even a "deranged Easter Bunny" - what does that have to do with Christmas? You'll have to see the show to find out.

Join Paradise Theatre this holiday for the special family treat. The show opens on Friday November 27th and runs through December 13th. The December 4th show is already sold out, so get your tickets now by visiting http://www.paradisetheatre.org/.

Time to Enjoy some Winter Warmth, Gig Harbor Style

Whether it be for the holidays, a girls shopping night, a romantic get away in January or anytime this winter, Gig Harbor invites you to enjoy WINTER WARMTH GIG HARBOR STYLE.

Gig Harbor now has some fabulous winter destination overnight packages available at The INN at Gig Harbor, The Best Western Wesley Inn, The Maritime Inn and the Waterfront Inn.

Winter is a great time to visit Gig Harbor. Learn more at http://www.gigharborguide.com/.

Gig Harbor, Washington's Maritime Village.

OLIVER returns to Gig Harbor this Holiday Season

Encore! Theater is back this season with OLIVER, one of Encore's most successful productions. Every few years Encore brings this show back to Gig Harbor with its large cast of kids and adults, funny yet touching holiday story and memorable music such as "Food, Glorious Food" and "As Long As He Needs Me".

This delightful musical classic, based on the Dickens novel, is appropriate for the entire family. Follow the orphan Oliver along his perilous journey through the slums of Victorian London to find his lost family. The music is wonderful and you find yourself singing along and tapping your toes.

Oliver at Encore! Theater http://www.encoretheater.org/

November 20-December 6th, Friday and Saturday at 7:30pm and Sundays at 2pm with a special matinee performance on December 5th. (253) 858-2282

Holiday Helpers Return to Gig Harbor

Once again this year, the Gig Harbor Police Department is helping the community with their 5th annual Holiday Helpers program. Sponsored by Jaycox Gig Harbor Police Benevolent Fund, and dedicated to providing charitable and educational assistance to the youth of the community.

Holiday Helpers allows local children in need the opportunity to get to know the Gig Harbor Police Department officers as well as the Pierce County Sheriff's Department deputies, while Christmas shopping at the Gig Harbor Target store. Each child is provided their own Target Gift Card purchased with donations by community members and local area service clubs. In addition, the children are provided a tour of the Gig Harbor Police Department and learn about safety while enjoying lunch with the officers and deputies.

The Holiday Helpers program focuses on children between the ages of seven and fourteen who are chosen based on social and or economic need. This year about 14 kids will receive this honor.

The public is asked to help by donating to the Jaycox Gig Harbor Benevolent Fund Holiday Helpers Program to assure there are enough resources this year to allow this children to receive this memorable holiday experience. This opportunity to interact with law enforcement in a positive way makes a big impact on this kids.

Donations can be made by contacting Gig Harbor PD Community Service Officer Lynn Mock at (253) 853-2426 or mockl@cityofgigharbor.net

Take a Look at the Changes at Sip Wine Bar, Gig Harbor

Let's not beat around the bush. Some folks thought it was too expensive. Maybe it was, maybe it wasn't. But the thing is, Sip Wine Bar and Restaurant in Gig Harbor's fabulous Uptown Shopping area listened to its customers. And made some changes. So now it's time to give them another try.

Last week I had a wonderful opportunity to sit with the owner of Sip and the Marketing Director of Washington Restaurant Group and talk about Gig Harbor as a unique community, and what it takes to be a successful business here. Those of us who live here already know the secret; we are not Seattle, we are not Bellevue, we are not Tacoma. The secret - don't try to put Gig Harbor into someone elses' box. We are, Gig Harbor.

The awesome thing about my conversation last week at Sip, was how eager and interested they were in learning more about Gig Harbor. Who are we and what makes us tick? They are a great organization that really is interested in making their restaurant property a place Gig Harbor enjoys.

So, it's time to give them another try Gig Harbor. Changes have been made to the prices on the menu and they have also changed up the wine pours. A fabulous entree Cabernet Braised Black Angus Ribs is only $19. Grilled Lamb Chops with a Port Mint Reduction will run you $28. If you're like me and like small plates as your entree the Sip Sweet Roll Sliders will only run you $9 and the Crab Cakes are $13. Don't forget the hand cut frittes for $7. It's a toss up for me as to my favorite salad...the traditional Iceberg Wedge with Roquefort ($9) or the Poached Pear with Arugula, spiced pecans and goat cheese ($9). Another great option each night is the homemade soups. When I was there last week the choice was a golden and red beet soup. I love beets so I had to try it. It was amazing, and so beautiful in its presentation!

Since it is a Wine Bar, you don't want to miss out on the incredible selection of wine at Sip. The choices are wide and diverse. 60z glass or full bottles are available with dinner or in the bar. Bottled beer is also available and there is talk of future cocktails as well.

• Did you know that EVERY night is Happy Hour during the week from 4:30-6:30 and 9-11pm with HALF PRICE POURS?



• Wednesday's are HALF PRICE BOTTLE night? Just purchase two en tree's and receive half off any bottle of $100 or less.



• Thursday is LADIES NIGHT, ladies receive 1/2 wine flights and enjoy live music.

Sip also offers the VIP Rewards Card. As a VIP member you earn points for every dollar you spend, providing you great deals as you build up points. Sip likes to recognize its loyal patrons and the VIP program is one way they do it.

If you read my blog frequently you know what an advocate I am for keeping your shopping and entertainment dollars local. Supporting Gig Harbor, now more than ever, is vital to our community's future. I am personally thrilled to have so many new dining options in Gig Harbor. So Sip again Gig Harbor, and reacquaint yourself with Sip Wine Bar and Restaurant, Uptown.

Open every day at 4:30p.m. Special groups and events welcome. Catering too!

http://www.siprestaurant.com/

Take a Load Off Your Heart - Joe Piscatella Lecture in Gig Harbor

In this era of too little time and too much to do, of increased career and family commitments, of crawling traffic and never ending emails, Americans are living with chronic stress. Join Joseph Piscatella, of the Institute for Fitness and Health, Wednesday December 9th at 6:30p.m. for a free lecture on surviving the times. Presented by MultiCare Gig Harbor Medical Park and Healthy Communities of Pierce County, this event is part of the City of Gig Harbor's Healthy Harbor campaign and will take place at the Gig Harbor Civic Center, 3510 Grandview Street, Gig Harbor.

An overwhelming 89% of Americans say that stress is part of everyday. The result is often high levels of frustration, anxiety and anger. Joe Piscatella, President of the Institute for Fitness and Health will examine the impact of chronic stress on cardiac health and will illustrate how stress can trigger high blood pressure, increase cholesterol and produce fatal heart attacks. Joe helps audiences understand that the secret to a balanced life is not to avoid stress, but to manage it; not to react to stress, but to respond to it. Joe's presentation will help attendees with a variety of mental and physical tools to successfully manage stress every day.

Joe Piscatella is one of the country's most respected experts on how to live a healthy lifestyle in the real world. A high-energy speaker, he is a man with a visionary message and the extraordinary skill to tell it. He uses the art of storytelling, contagious humor and decades of experience to deliver a powerful, practical message that moves audiences to live healthier lives. Over 2 million people have attended Joe's powerful keynote speeches and breakout sessions steeped in humor, insight and practical "how to" tools. He knows the science of balanced living. more importantly, he understands the practical application of that science for today's busy lifestyles. With his energy, sense of humor and decades of experience, Joe captivates and motivates audiences, inspiring them to take ownership and responsibility for their health. For additional information visit http://www.joepiscatella.com/.

Gig Harbor Gets New Indian Restaurant

A tried and true Tacoma favorite, Gateway to India, has opened a new location in Gig Harbor. I had the opportunity to eat there today and it was delicious and inexpensive.

I have eaten at the Tacoma location several times. It will be great to have an Indian Restaurant in Gig Harbor...another in a line of new restaurants that have opened in Gig Harbor the past few months.

The menu is nearly identical to the Tacoma location. The lunch buffet (all you can eat) is inexpensive and a great way to taste your way through Indian staples - especially if you are new to this fabulous cuisine. The great thing about Indian food (besides the Naan and Saag Aloo) is that you have the ability to choose how spicy you like it. Again, if you are new to this cuisine, you can try different levels of spiciness as you learn all about this fabulous, flavorful, delicious and healthy ethnic option.

Five stars to Gig Harbor's newest neighborhood eatery, Gateway to Indian. Definitely check it out and welcome them to our town!

Gateway to Indian is located at 6565 Kimball Drive, Gig Harbor WA 98335. (253) 851-2688

http://www.gatewaytoindiarestaurant.com/

Drink now, Win later! Brix 25 in Gig Harbor Showcase Contest

Gig Harbor's fabulous Brix 25 Restaurant has a great holiday promotion called CAPTAINS LIST SHOWCASE CONTEST. Brix 25's captains list showcases wines that are considered to be the best wines that the northwest has to offer, wines that are highly allocated. These difficult to get wines are tryly the gems of our collection. This holiday season Brix is offering a special showcase of these remarkable wines. For every purchase from the Captain's List between November 1st and December 20th, customers will be entered into a drawing to win an exclusive Long Shadow Vintners limited edition case of wine. The winner will be drawn on December 22nd. Wouldn't that make your holiday merry and bright?

This unique case contains one bottle of each of long Shadows' six acclaimed red wines. Each of these unique wines is individually crafted by a world renowned vintner to showcase the viticultural excellence of Washington State's Columbia Valley:

• 2006 Pirouette - Traditional Boudreaux Blend, SOLD OUT.


• 2006 Feather - 100% Cabernet Sauvignon, SOLD OUT


• 2006 Pedestal - Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, Petite Verdot & Malbec, SOLD OUT


• 2006 Sequel - Syrah, SOLD OUT


• 2006 Saggi - Sangiovese, Cabernet Sauvignon, Syrah, SOLD OUT


• 2005 Chester-Kidder- Syrah, Cabernet Sauvignon, Petite Verdot & Cabernet Franc, SOLD OUT

This collection would retail for over $300 and one lucky Brix 25 customer will win it!

Founded by Washington wine pioneer Allen Shoup, Long Shadows Vintners is a collection of ultra-premium winery comprised of internationally acclaimed winemakers from the major wine regions of the world. Each winemaker is partnered in a unique winery dedicated to producing a single Columbia Valley wine representing a "best of type" that reflects the winemaker's signature style. For more information on Long Shadows Vintners visit them at http://www.longshadows.com/.

For reservations at Brix 25 visit http://www.harborbrix.com/

See you there!

It's beginning to look a lot like you-know-what!

The Christmas Holiday season used to start on the day after Thanksgiving (now referred to as Black Friday). However in the past decade or so, holiday decorations, commercials, lights and even bell ringers sneak their way into November...stretching the holiday season from Halloween to New Years.

It's okay really, especially knowing how hard retailers are working to entice shoppers in an effort to end this dismal year on a good note. Hopefully shoppers are aware how important it is to shop local and keep your holiday gift dollars (even if limited dollars) close to home.

As we approach mid November in Gig Harbor, the events and activities to get you in the holiday mood are multiplying. You can find a list of all the events and activities in Gig Harbor at http://www.gigharborguide.com/. But here is a taste of some of the fun things in the next couple of weeks:

• LADIES NIGHT OUT at Gig Harbor Ace Hardware, Point Fosdick Store, Wednesday November 18th 6-9p.m. Ace is a great gift store and on this night ladies can enjoy refreshments, door prizes and free gift wrapping.


• GIRLS NIGHT OUT at Healthy Reflections Medical and Day Spa, Point Fosdick, Thursday November 19th from 5:3o-8:30pm. Enjoy delicious hors d' oeuvres and wine, try the latest products and sample treatments. Event is $15. To RSVP call 800-342-9919


• GIG HARBOR HIGH SCHOOL BAND presents "As American as Apple Pie" Thursday November 19th at 7pm. Help the band raise funds and enjoy a wonderful night of Americana


• OLIVER AT ENCORE THEATER, the first holiday play of the season opens on November 20th at Encore Theater. The beloved "Oliver" runs Friday - Sunday through December 6th. Learn more and get tickets at http://www.encoretheater.org/


• A CHRISTMAS STORY AT PARADISE THEATRE, this hilarious production opens November 27th and runs through December 13th. Learn more and get tickets at http://www.paradisetheatre.org/


• WINTERFEST ARTS AND CRAFTS FAIR, at Peninsula High School is Saturday and Sunday November 28th & 29th. So much to see and do at this annual holiday event, including getting your holiday poinsettias from the Peninsula High School Band.

So there is no looking back...its the holidays in Gig Harbor! Go forth and celebrate!

.

Gig Harbor Offers Free Career Workshop

Bill Branson of Strategic Business Architects has offered his services free of charge to provide a workshop for regional citizens in need of employment coaching. The free workshop will take place on Thursday December 3rd from 6:30-8:30p.m. at the Gig Harbor Civic Center, 3510 Grandview Street.
During this unprecedented time in our history, stress and anxiety over job loss, lay-offs, career change and retirement planning can affect health and happiness. Bill Branson has made a career out of helping business professionals make the most of their careers, particularly in these trying times.
The workshop will help teach ways to overcome the negative emotions and self -defeating behaviors of losing your job or changing careers by taking a proactive approach to finding your perfect job.
In this 2-hour, interactive workshop Branson will teach 5 steps of finding your perfect job. You will learn how to:

• Find your strengths


• Build your personal brand


• Create an attractive personal profile


• Use the Internet to attract your perfect job


• Construct a plan for moving ahead and getting results

To learn more about Strategic Business Architects, visit http://www.strategicbusinessarchitects.net/

Salute our Veterans in Gig Harbor

Wednesday is Veterans Day (November 11th) and Gig Harbor is encouraged to come out and say thank you to all Veterans at the annual Veterans Day Ceremony at Skansie Brothers Park.

Join Boy Scout Troop 282, along with the Peninsula High School Jazz Band and guest speakers Mayor Chuck Hunter and Sgt. Julie Guerra of Fort Lewis.

Ceremony begins at 11am and will be followed by a flag retirement ceremony.

So Much To Do in Gig Harbor This Weekend

Don't be fooled...summer may be over but things are very busy in Gig Harbor. There is so much to do this weekend, you can easily find an excuse to put off that winter yard clean up a little longer. And since there is no baseball to watch, get out and enjoy November and all it has to offer in beautiful Gig Harbor.

Further information on all of the events listed here (and all other events) can be found on your community calendar of events at www.gigharborguide.com ;

• Nov 5-13th Final Days of the Peninsula Art League Juried Arts Show at the Gig Harbor Civic Center


• Nov 5-8 Northwest Crafters Holiday Show at the Gig Harbor Grange


• Nov 6-8th Chapel Hill presents Festival of Hope


• Nov 6&7th Peninsula Gardens presents "A Holiday Home to Remember"


• Nov 7th Saturday Art Walk in historic downtown Gig Harbor


• Nov 7th For Art Sake Gallery opens "A French Suite" photo show by S. Meltzer


• Nov 7th Gig Harbor Ski Swap at Gig Harbor High School


• Nov 7th Fox Island Indoor Market


• Nov 7th Creative Memories "Croptoberfest"


• Nov 7&8th Wilkinson Farm Community Garden Clean Up

And as usual enjoy Wine Tastings at Water to Wine, The Keeping Room, Forza Wine Bar and stop in for a visit at the new 7 Seas Taproom.

Looking for an overnight getaway so you have plenty of time to do all of the things listed here? Local hotels and inns are offering special WINTER WARMTH packages now and through out the winter. Learn more about Winter Warmth Gig Harbor Style at http://www.gigharborguide.com/

CONGRATULATIONS TO WATER TO WINE!

King 5 and CityVoter.Com announcedthe 2009 winners of the Best of Western Washington this week in the wine shop category. Water to Wine achieved THIRD place out of nearly sixty listings in Puget Sound. "We appreciate all of those who voted for us and are honored to be recognized in this great contest." Propretor Steve Lynn replied, upon hearing the news of the contest results. A staunch supporter of his local community, Lynn looks forwared to serving the wider audience this recognition brings.

Water to Wine, now celebrating ten years as the South Sound's pre-eminent wine store has the largest most diverse selection of wines in the area. Conveniently located in Gig Harbor's Finholm neighborhood, the staff looks forward to helping guests find the perfect wine for every occasion. Water to Wine hosts complimentary tasting daily as well as frequnt winemaker tastings.

Learn more about Water to Wine at http://www.watertowineshop.com/

Turkey Trot returns to Gig Harbor Thanksgiving morning

Justify that third helping this Thanksgiving by starting your day at the Gig Harbor Turkey Trot 5K/10K to benefit Gig Harbor FISH Food Bank, Thursday November 26th 2009 in historic downtown Gig Harbor.

Sponsored by Holmes Chiropractic, the Gig Harbor Turkey Trot raises money and food items for the 501(c)3 Peninsula FISH Food Bank, an all volunteer organization that helps families around the peninsula region.

Registration for the run, which begins at 8a.m. is $15 plus two cans of food. Registration can be made by going to http://www.active.com/ or in person at Route 16 Running, 6745 Kimball Drive in Gig Harbor.

Day of check in will be at the Gig Harbor Post Office, but the start line this year will be on Harborview Drive at Skansie Brothers Park.

Volunteers are also needed. To learn more contact Holmes Chiropractic at (253) 858-5152 or turkeytrot2009@gmail.com.

For overnight accommodation information go to http://www.gigharborguide.com/

Time to Celebrate Successful Community Garden

Everyone is invited to help with a end of season clean up at the Wilkinson Farm Park Community Garden on Sataurday November 7th from 9am-1pm and Sunday November 8th from 11am - ??

Come and help build community spirt and enjoy hot cider, homemade garden soup and bread, all while putting the community garden to bed!

The "to do" list includes;

1. Remove and store tomato cages


2. Remove and store fencing


3. Remove and store irragation system


4. Shred conr stalks


5. Haul and spread manure


6. Begin composting


7. Till the garden


8. Plant a cover crop

Applications will be on hand for one of the 20 9x12 garden plots that will be available next spring.

Join the celebrtain, clean up and have some fun with your neighbors. To learn more contact Barb Carr at barbcarr@centurytel.net

Nice Fall Walks Outside of Gig Harbor

There is still a little time left to enjoy the fall color in and around the Gig Harbor peninsula area. Recently my husband and I checked out two great parks we had never been to. Both are easy to get to, easy walking, great for bird watching, peaceful and quiet and have great fall foliage.

1. Harbor Family Park

It's actually a bit embarrasing to say I hadn't been to this park, because it is within walking distance to my house. But, alas, I just had not found the time to get there until last Saturday. My husband and I tried a new running route, and while passing by the park I said "We gotta check this place out". So, we took a nice walk through the woods before continuing our run. This park is much larger than I thought, over 18 acres. It was very quiet and peaceful and as we walked the slender trails I was sure we would meet up with a bear or a deer around every corner. It really did not feel like I was so close to my home, or to busy 40th & 70th Streets. The trails are a bit rough still, and no services are available here, but there is a small parking area and an abundance of wooded silence. A great place to get lost for an hour or so. Harbor Family Park is one of the many parks managed by PenMetParks. http://www.penmetparks.org/

2. Two Saturday's ago, my husband and I drove across the Purdy Spit and onto Elgin Clifton, where we made a right on 150th AVe KPN to find the Rocky Creek Conservation Area. I had never heard of this park, until we stumbled upon it on line. Rocky Creek Conservation Area is surprisingly large - 224 acres and is managed jointly by Key Pen Parks (http://www.keypenparks.com/) and Pierce County for the public enjoyment of the existing ecosystem. Trails are rough but passable. We spent about an hour and half winding through three different trail routes and never saw another human. We did however see Fir, Hemlock, Alder, Cedar, lots of birds and two creeks. It was a surprise to find this park tucked away and we enjoyed our time there.

3. If you want to stay in the City limits and take a walk, I highly recommend three parks that many locals don't seem to ever use; Grandview Forest Park is a beautiful wooded park on Grandview Drive right next door to the Civic Center, Wilkinson Farm Park on Rosedale is a 17 acre estuary and pioneer farm in the heart of the city (and where this owl photo was taken recently), and Adam Tallman Park on Wollochet just off of Hwy 16 is an easy esturary walk that is flat and offers great bird viewing.

Don't let the clouds keep you indoors, enjoy nature this fall through out the beautiful Gig Harbor and Key Peninsula area.

Get Ready for Winter Gig Harbor

I left on vacation September 24th and it was still summer in Gig Harbor. I returned on October 12th and it was winter....I seemed to have missed fall all together in my three week absence.

So, a quick adjustment was in order, both for my body and my garden!

Winter brings a variety of projects, including preparing for snow or windstorms and power outages.

Given the wide variety of tiny eco-systems in the Gig Harbor area, each resident and business needs to plan separately. When we have snow, I am always amazed when I drive from my home on Wollochet Bay to my office on Judson Street. The elevation changes in that stretch of road are surprising, and the road conditions can vary greatly.

Planning ahead for your family, your business, and your commute based on your individual situation will make life a little easier during these stressful weather events. So, do you have a plan? If not do it now...it's November already and not too early for wind and snow!

The City of Gig Harbor has the following tips to help keep local residents and businesses safe during storms and inclement weather. Prepare, prepare, prepare!

1. Develop a plan for your business and contact your local fire and police with any questions you might have, BEFORE an emergency.



2. Make sure your employees and or your family are familiar with the plan.



3. Keep an updated hard copy contact list of important phone numbers at your office and at your home (not just on your computer).



4. Keep a battery operated radio and flash light with fresh batteries at your office and your home.


5. Be sure to have a first aid kit, water and non-perishable food at your home and office.


6. Know where gas, water and electricity shut off points are.


7. Don't drive unless you absolutely must. Snow removal is quicker and safer with fewer cars on the road.


8. Clean your own sidewalk - this goes for business and residents too. Sidewalks are the responsibility of the property owner. If you lease your business space, be sure to have a plan in place with the property owner.

That last one causes confusion each time we have snow or ice. The City of Gig Harbor crews will be very busy in a weather emergency making sure roads are safe and keeping water, sewer and power operating. Cleaning sidewalks falls to the responsibility of property owners. The Gig Harbor Historic Waterfront Association is looking for contacts of local people who have small tractors or good solid backs who would be willing to assist in the historic downtown area with snow removal. If you want to join the snow brigade contact Mary DesMarais at (253) 514-0071.

For all the information on Emergency Prepardness contact City of Gig Harbor Building/Fire Safety Department at (253) 851-6170.

Be safe Gig Harbor!