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/