SALMONCHANTED HARBOR RETURNS TO GIG HARBOR

But look again – something isn’t so fishy this year!

April 2010, Gig Harbor Wash; Gig Harbor welcomes the return of SalmonChanted Harbor again this year beginning in May. But this year there is a new twist…those salmon look suspiciously like heron!
Organizers of the third annual art event decided to shake it up in 2010, with heron sculptures instead of salmon. The heron is a bird frequently seen in and around the waters of Gig Harbor bay and other bays and estuaries in the area. These amazing resin sculpture shells have been distributed to 15 local artists. The artists were chosen from a pool of candidates for their unique ideas to make the heron shell into a work of art.
Each artist will create a different themed heron (see list below) and each piece of art will be displayed at a different location throughout historic Gig Harbor from late May through early September. The heron will then be auctioned at the SalmonChanted Evening event, scheduled for September 18th at the Gig Harbor Yacht Club.
All of the sculptures will debut at an event at the Gig Harbor Civic Center, 3510 Grandview Street on Wednesday May 26th from 6-8p.m.

This year’s artists and locations are;

1. Nancy Fiala presents “Mardi Gras Heron” at The Green Turtle Restaurant
2. Nancy Keck Harris presents “The Ghost” at Simply Charmed
3. Nancy Corey presents “Stepping Out in Gig Harbor” at Gallery Row
4. Alexis St. John presents “Life Force” at Kit Kuhn, A Jeweler Designed for You
5. Kathleen Casteel & Brad Dinsmore present “Eyes of Action” at Threshold Building
6. Joan Sain presents “The Gambler” at Ebb Tide Gallery
7. Jody L. Whalen presents “Patchwork Heron” at Timberland Bank
8. Harvey D. Kolln presents “Canary in the Estuary” at Columbia Bank
9. Giorgina C. Wells presents “A Latin Heron” at Birdnest Gallery
10. Charles A. Anderson presents “Gogh Heron Gogh” at Wild Birds Unlimited
11. Laura Jacobson presents “Penny Land the Crane” at Harbor Gallery
12. Delaine Gately presents “Gig Harbor’s Peacock” at The Maritime Inn
13. Christina Hella Thompson presents “The Glass Heron” at For Arts Sake
14. Loretta J. Anderson presents “An Attitude of Patience” at Anthony’s Restaurant
15. Christina Burris & A/P Art Class Students present “Recycle for the Environment” at Water to Wine

SalmonChanted Harbor 2010 is dedicated to the memory of Pauline Winchell, founder of the event and long time Ebb Tide Gallery artist.

This year’s SalmonChanted sponsors are;
The City of Gig Harbor
Gig Harbor Kiwanis Club
Willis Marketing, Inc.
The Russell Family Foundation
Threshold Group
MultiCare Gig Harbor Medical Park
Timberland Bank
Columbia Bank
Lloyd M. Silver Harbor Center
Wild Birds Unlimited
St. Anthony Hospital, a part of Franciscan Health System
Anthony’s Restaurant
Walt’s Auto Care Centers
Fosberg Media Group
Eric Peavy
The Green Turtle Restaurant
The Maritime Inn
Neurosurgery Northwest
Water to Wine
Bruce and Carol Murdock

SalmonChanted Harbor is produced by the Gig Harbor Gallery Association in support of the Peninsula Hands On Art program. Learn more at www.salmonchantedharbor.org

To learn more about visiting or overnight accommodations in Gig Harbor go to www.gigharborguide.com. Gig Harbor – Washington’s Maritime Village.

SUMMER CALENDAR LOOKS PRETTY FULL OF FUN FILLED ACTIVITIES!

Gig Harbor, Wash. – April, 2010 – Gig Harbor is the place to be this summer. This vibrant and exciting community has many shops, movie theater and restaurants, but keeps it’s authentic maritime charm with fun, friendly and for the most part, free, events through out the summer season. Launching the summer season is the fourth annual Gig Harbor Street Scramble on May 29th;

May 29th Gig Harbor Street Scramble (253) 857-4842
The City of Gig Harbor www.gigharborguide.com

June 5-6th Maritime Gig Festival (253) 851-6865
Gig Harbor Peninsula Area Chamber of Commerce
www.maritimegig.com


June 22nd Summer Sounds At Skansie (888) VIEW GIG
The City of Gig Harbor- each Tuesday from 6:30-8:30 – this week Raucous Band
www.gigharborguide.com

June 26th & 27th Gig Harbor Garden Tour (253) 853-3554
Tacoma Community College Adult Literacy Program
http://www.gigharborgardentour.com

June 29th Summer Sounds At Skansie (888) VIEW GIG
The City of Gig Harbor- each Tuesday from 6:30 – 8:00 pm – this week Soulstice
www.gigharborguide.com

July 6th Summer Sounds At Skansie (888) VIEW GIG
The City of Gig Harbor- each Tuesday from 6:30 – 8:00 pm – this week Army National Guard Band
www.gigharborguide.com


July 9th & 10th Cinema Gig Outdoor Movie (253) 857-4842
The City of Gig Harbor Friday and Saturday nights www.gigharborguide.com
Friday’s movie at Donkey Creek Park is Airplane!
Saturday’s movie at Skansie Brothers Park is Where the Wild Things Are

July 13th Summer Sounds At Skansie (888) VIEW GIG
The City of Gig Harbor- each Tuesday from 6:30 – 8:00 pm – this week Blackberry Bushes
www.gigharborguide.com

July 17th Chalk the Walk (253) 514-0071
Gig Harbor Historic Waterfront Association www.ghhwa.org

July 17th & 18th Gig Harbor Summer Arts Festival (253) 857-4222
Peninsula Art League www.peninsulaartleague.com


July 20th Summer Sounds At Skansie (888) VIEW GIG
The City of Gig Harbor- each Tuesday from 6:30 – 8:00 pm – this week The Beatniks
www.gigharborguide.com

July 23rd – 24th Cinema Gig Outdoor Movie (253) 857-4842
The City of Gig Harbor Friday and Saturday nights www.gigharborguide.com
Friday’s movie at Donkey Creek Park Mamma Mia
Saturday’s movie at Skansie Brothers Park Goonies

July 27th Summer Sounds At Skansie (888) VIEW GIG
The City of Gig Harbor- each Tuesday from 6:30 – 8:00 pm – this week Freckles Brown Band
www.gigharborguide.com


August 3rd Summer Sounds At Skansie (888) VIEW GIG
The City of Gig Harbor- each Tuesday from 6:30 – 8:00 pm – this week Danny Vernon
www.gigharborguide.com

August 7th Gig Harbor Food and Wine Festival (253) 514-0071
TheHarbor History Museum presents this new event in downtown Gig Harbor
Gig Harbor Historic Waterfront Association www.ghhwa.org

August 6th-7th Cinema Gig Outdoor Movie (253) 857-4842
The City of Gig Harbor Friday and Saturday nights www.gigharborguide.com
Friday’s movie at Donkey Creek Park The Pink Panther
Saturday’s movie at Skansie Brothers Park Cloudy with a Chance of Meatballs

August 10th Summer Sounds At Skansie (888) VIEW GIG
The City of Gig Harbor- each Tuesday from 6:30-8:00 pm – this week Your Fathers’ Manouche
www.gigharborguide.com

August 14th Gig Harbor Rocks (253) 857-4842
Downtown Gig Harbor steps back to the 1950’s! www.gigharborguide.com

August 17th Summer Sounds At Skansie (888) VIEW GIG
The City of Gig Harbor- each Tuesday from 6:30 – 8:00 pm – this week The Coats
www.gigharborguide.com

August 20th – 21st Cinema Gig Outdoor Movie (253) 857-4842
The City of Gig Harbor www.gigharborguide.com
Friday’s movie at Donkey Creek Park The Blind Side
Saturday’s movie at Skansie Brothers Park Disney’s Finding Nemo

August 24th Summer Sounds At Skansie (888) VIEW GIG
The City of Gig Harbor- each Tuesday from 6:30 – 8:00 pm this week Island Jamz
www.gigharborguide.com

Sept 18th – 19th Open Studio Tour (253) 549-7551
www.gigharboropenstudiotour.org

September 18th Harbor Hounds Walk the Town (253) 851-1170
Gig Harbor Mid-Day Rotary
www.harborhounds.com

September 25th Gig Harbor Chowder Cook Off (253) 884-9672
Gig Harbor Farmers Market
www.gigharborfarmersmarket.com

Also don’t miss – Every Saturday April – September the Gig Harbor Farmers Market at the Kimball Park and Ride from 8:30am- 2pm. And every Wednesday June – September the Gig Harbor GREEN Market on the waterfront in historic downtown Gig Harbor from 11am – 7pm. www.gigharborfarmersmarket.com

Gig Harbor has two performing arts theater groups offering a variety of exceptional indoor and outdoor performances through out the summer. From classical musicals to hilarious comedies there is something for everyone. See the line up at www.encoretheater.org and www.paradisetheatre.org

Originating from two-miles of walk-able harbor front and boasting one of the most scenic skyline views of Mt. Rainier, Gig Harbor is the first destination on the Kitsap Peninsula after crossing the Tacoma Narrows Bridge and an ideal spot for unique, leisurely get-away. This vibrant community is notable for its maritime heritage, marinas, waterfront inns, bed and breakfasts, public parks, upscale and one-of-a-kind shops, art galleries, jewelers, harbor tours, and harbor-front restaurants, as well as its eye-catching gardens and garden centers. For overnight packages, event and visitor information, please access www.gigharborguide.com or call the Gig Harbor Visitor Information Center at (888) VIEWGIG.

# # #

CENSUS BUREAU ROLLS OUT NEW INTERACTIVE GOOGLE MAPS SHOWING 2010 CENSUS PARTICIPATION RATES

Washington Counties, Cities Able to Track Percentage of Households Mailing Back Questionnaires

The U.S. Census Bureau has launched an interactive Website on Google Maps showing initial 2010 census participation rates. The state’s mail-participation rate is presently at 10 percent, 10 points lower than the national participation rate. Census officials anticipate that the participation rate will significantly increase throughout March and April, as households continue to receive and mail back the questionnaires.

Currently, Lincoln County in Eastern Washington has the highest participation rate in the state at 35 percent. Yakima County trails all counties with 1 percent participation. The rate is 9 percent in King County, 11 percent in Pierce County, 8 percent in Snohomish County, 18 percent in Thurston County and 4 percent in Spokane County. At the city level the following participation rates are:
• 10% in Seattle
• 9% in Bellevue
• 11% in Tacoma
• 20% in Olympia
• 8% in Vancouver
• 3% in Spokane
• 1% in Wenatchee
• 11% in Bellingham
• 8% in Kent
• 12% in Bremerton

The collaborative partnership with Google allows communities the ability to track how their area is responding to the once-a-decade count. The Census Bureau will provide daily updates of the percentage of returned census questionnaires using Google Maps and Google Earth.

Individuals are encouraged to go to www.2010census.gov/2010census/take10map/ to monitor their area’s mail-participation rate at city, county and state levels. In addition, the map offers the ability for areas to compare with nearby communities and states.

Most households in Washington State received the much-anticipated, 10-question form in mailboxes last week. Census officials hope that households will fill out their 2010 census questionnaires and mail it back.

It costs the government just the price of a postage stamp when a household mails back the 10-question form. However, it costs the Census Bureau $57 to follow up with a non-responsive household. In 2000, the nation reversed a three-decade decline in mail rates, achieving a mail-participation rate of 72 percent.

Mandated by the U.S. Constitution, the census takes place every 10 years. Census Day is April 1, 2010. Census data determine boundaries for state and local legislative and congressional districts. More than $400 billion in federal funds are distributed annually based on census data to pay for local programs and services, such as schools, highways, vocational training, emergency services, hospitals, unemployment benefits and much more.

Learn more about the 2010 Census at www.2010.census.gov .

Join the Gig Harbor BoatShop for Lofting the Thunderbird Sailboat!

Dates: April 17 & 18 (weekend class)
Dates: May 1 & 2 (weekend class)
Time: 9:00am to Noon (lunch break) 1:00pm to 5:00pm
Instructor: Steve Helgeson, GHB Program Director
Fee: $150.00 (GHB member) - $165.00 (Non-GHB member) cost for weekend (2-day) class
Limit: 6 participants (per weekend) only!
Where: Lofting Room at the Historic Eddon Boatyard - 3805 Harborview Drive Gig Harbor WA
Phone: (253) 857-9344

Lofting is the first step in building a new boat. It involves drawing the design of the vessel full scale on the loft floor. Once the initial design is laid down, the lines are “faired”, a process of correcting minor errors in the design caused by the small scale in which designs are created. Once the fairing is complete, the builder uses the loft to generate all of the patterns and templates necessary to setup and build the hull.

Class participants will loft the Thunderbird sailboat using the table of offsets and lines given in the original plans. Interested participants can take the first or second session, or both - and learn the process of lofting. The loft will be preserved and used for a variety of purposes in Gig Harbor BoatShop’s on-going work with the Thunderbird Sailboat.

For more information about the program, instructor, or hotel package for our out-of-town guests (Gig Harbor’s Maritime Inn), please call (253) 857-9344 – or log onto our website at www.gigharborboatshop.org

Sip. at the wine bar & restaurant Gig Harbor Celebrates Birthday with New Spring Menu, Events

Gig Harbor Local, Daniel Jackson Named Lead Captain; Adds Focus on Community Partnerships
GIG HARBOR, Wash.—(March 25, 2010)—On March 26, Sip. at the wine bar & restaurant in Uptown Gig Harbor marks its one-year anniversary with a new spring menu, addition of Gig Harbor local Daniel Jackson to the team, and a host of community-fostering events through partnerships with Gig Harbor organizations and festivals.

Daniel Jackson’s career began in 1983 at Triples in Seattle, and his palate and talents were honed at the acclaimed Fullers in the Seattle Sheraton. Most recently he developed the wine program at Brix 25 Restaurant in Gig Harbor, which, in turn, led him to Sip. Jackson has an appreciation for and extensive collection of Northwest wines: 98 percent of his personal cellar is comprised of Northwest bottles.

“Right now, there’s a lot happening in Uptown Gig Harbor, and I’m excited to be here, working with Robert Green and the rest of the team,” says Jackson.

Jackson has an exciting spring lined up for Sip. guests, including a recently added full bar and cocktail program, a new spring menu from Gig Harbor’s well-loved, Executive Chef Robert Green, and a series of community events.

New Spring Menu Additions –
• BBQ Shrimp—Jumbo shrimp, apple-wood bacon, fresh basil and housemade Asian BBQ sauce, 13.
• Fried California Roll—Spicy crab with soy dipping sauce and wasabi aioli, 12.
• Crab Salad—Fresh Dungeness crab, watercress, marinated tomato, hard-boiled egg and lemon-caper vinaigrette, 13.
• Duo of Duck—Seared breast and leg confit with cherry sauce, potato gratin, fresh daily vegetable, 27.
• BBQ Salmon—Wild Alaskan salmon, grilled and basted with housemade Asian BBQ sauce, roasted fingerling potatoes, fresh daily vegetable , 23.
• Hand Cut Ribeye—10 oz. Certified Angus with housemade steak sauce, duck fat-whipped potatoes, fresh daily vegetable, 25.

Winemakers Dinner with Barons V and DeLille Cellars, April 13, 5 p.m. –
Sip. Gig Harbor’s first winemakers’ dinner will include Chef Green’s specially prepared four-course dinner paired with award-winning wines. Special guests include Gary McLean, co-owner of Barons V; Matthew Logo, Barons V winemaker; and Greg Lill, co-owner of DeLille Cellars. Cost is $80 per person not including tax and gratuity. For reservations and more information, call Sip. at (253) 853-3020.

“Sips & Tips” Monthly Women’s Networking Event –
From 5 to 6 p.m. on the first Tuesday of every month, Sip. provides an opportunity for women to meet, mingle and network in the spirit of community and learn about local businesses and organizations. Enjoy half-price glass pours, get a chance to win the door prize, and stay for a three-course dinner for just $30, exclusive of tax and gratuity. For more information, e-mail Karen Lawler at klawler@warestgroup.com.

Sip. in the Community –
A committed member of the Gig Harbor business community, Sip. is thrilled to be a partner in the Gig Harbor Film Festival and a contributor to the Gig Harbor Rotary Club and FISH food bank.

The staff at Uptown Sip. is grateful to the people of Gig Harbor for their patronage throughout their first year in business, and is looking forward to further developing their relationship with the community and its residents.


The Napa Valley-inspired Sip. at the wine bar & restaurant offers an approachable, global wine selection featuring nearly 70 by-the-glass choices, wine flights, and more than 250 bottles from the Pacific Northwest, California and around the world. The Northwest-driven food menu comforts and inspires, and is sourced locally whenever possible. Locations include 909 5th Ave., Seattle 98101 (206) 682-2779; 1084 NE Park Dr., Issaquah, 98029 (425) 369-1181; and 4793 Point Fosdick Dr. NW, Suite 400, Gig Harbor, 98335 (253) 853-3020. For further information, visit www.siprestaurant.com.

Follow Sip. at the wine bar & restaurant online:
Website: www.siprestaurant.com
Twitter: @SIPwinebar
Facebook: Sip at the wine bar & restaurant

Countdown - Farmers Market Time is Here!

Weather like today really makes me excited about spring and summer and all the great things that go on in Gig Harbor during these seasons. And one of my favorite, the Gig Harbor Farmers market, which opens April 3rd.

I really love our Farmers Market, which has come so very far since it began about a decade ago. And, according to market director Dale Schultz, this upcoming market season is going to be event better. Dale has spent the winter recruiting new farmers and new vendors including Gradwohl grass fed organic beef farmer and Last Bite Bakery as well as Ike's Fish and Seafood.

The Saturday Gig Harbor Farmers Market opens April 3rd at the new location on Kimball Drive. Take the Wollochet City Center exit off of Hwy 16 and follow the signs.

Thanks to a sponsorship by Columbia Bank, every Saturday the market will have live music including Billy Farmer, Steve Stefanowicz and Dave Calhoun - all local favorites.

The Farmers Market has a brand new website www.gigharborfarmersmarket.com and will also be selling new Farmers Market logo wear this year! It's all new and exciting for the Saturday market.

And additional good news, the Wednesday Green Market at Skansie Brothers Park is also expanding with more vendor, more activities and longer hours - open until 7pm. The Wednesday Green Market begins June 2nd. Stay tuned for more details on the Wednesday market coming to this Blog!

And see you on Saturday April 3rd for the opening of the Gig Harbor Farmers Market!!
www.gigharborguide.com

Hippity Hoppity Easter's On Its Way!

The sun is smiling on us today and it is a perfect day to talk about Easter, that wonderful holiday that makes us all feel like spring is finally here in all its pastel glory.
Once again this year there are many great options for your family to enjoy Easter in Gig Harbor - beginning this coming Saturday March 27th with the UPTOWN EASTER EGG HUNT!
Celebrate Spring at Uptown on March 27th with their annual Easter Egg Hunt at 10am. Uptown merchants invite you to meet at the fountain for this fun, free, family event. Children ten and under can meet the Easter Bunny himself until noon. It's all your style, you Uptown. Learn more at www.uptowngigharbor.com

Join WildBirds Unlimited for their 18th ANNUAL WILDBIRDS UNLIMITED EASTER EGG HUNT, on Saturday April 3rd at 10:30am. Kids ages 0-9 are invited to come to historic downtown Gig Harbor for this wonderful, free event. Be sure to bring your cameras too because that old Easter Bunny will be there, and ready to have a photo taken with your child. Wild Birds Unlimited is located at 3120 1/2 Harborview Drive. Learn more at www.wbu,com/gigharbor

Also on Saturday April 3rd from noon - 2pm is the PenMet Parks Spring Easter Egg Hunt at Goodman Middle School 93701 38th Ave NW). Kids 6th grade and under are invited to this free event that includes an Easter Egg Hunt, bounce house, prizes, raffle and of course (that very busy guy) the EASTER BUNNY!. Bring your cameras! Learn more at www.PenMetParks.org

On Easter Sunday enjoy a Champagne Easter Brunch Buffet at Brix 25. Brunch will be served from 10am-2pm on Sunday April 4th and will include bottomless glass of champagne, carving station, omelet prepared to order, Beouf Bourguignon, seafood station, dessert bar and more. $32 per person, kids 5-12 are half price and under five is free. Reservations are recommended so call (253) 858-6626 pr www.harborbrix.com

The Heritage Restaurant at the beautiful INN at Gig Harbor offers its special Easter menu on Sunday April 4th from 9am-3pm. Enjoy a special plated Easter Brunch and choose from maple glazed ham, Dungeness crab crepe, prime rib, crab cake Benedict, shrimp omelet, cinnamon french or roasted tomato, spinach & Asiago strata. Adults are only $22, children under 8 are $5. Make your reservation today at (253) 858-1111.

Enjoy celebrating spring and Easter together in Gig Harbor!

To learn about loding in Gig Harbor for the Easter weekend please go to www.gigharborguide.com

It's Garage Sale Time

As soon as the sun comes out so do the garage sales, and this weekend there is a special one you do not want to miss. The Best Western Wesley inn, 6575 Kimball Drive is holding a INDOOR GARAGE SALE, with proceeds going to The Homestead at Alder Cove.
Friday March 26th from 9am-5pm and Saturday March 27th from 9am-4pm stop by the Wesley Inn for some great garage sale items and to support The Homestead, a permanent residence for local foster children (www.homesteadcove.org).
Donations are now being accepted, but must be delivered to the Wesley Inn by Thursday March 25th. Call to arrange over sized items at (253) 858-9690.
The Best Western Wesley Inn is located .5 off of Pioneer on Kimball Drive.

See you there!
www.wesleyinn.com

GET OUT AND VOTE FOR GIG HARBOR

Sharpen up your #2 pencils Gig Harbor and get out and vote! Two great annual opportunities are upon us to vote for your favorites in Gig Harbor. A great way to support local businesses and help our local businesses to thrive!!

1. Gig Harbor has been nominated as BEST TOURISM DESTINATION in the annual KING 5 BEST OF WESTERN WASHINGTON contest. Of course, as they say, "it's an honor just to be nominated", but not fooling anyone that it would be really nice to win. What a nice boost to our local economy and all of our exceptional businesses to have this honor. Here is the link so please, log on and vote!

http://best.king5.com/contests/best-of-northwest-escapes/4764

2. It's also that time of year where the Peninsula Gateway is doing the BEST OF GIG HARBOR, voting. This annual local competition is friendly but also very competitive as local businesses position to be the BEST OF GIG HARBOR in everything from best art gallery to best romantic walk. Watch the Gateway each week for the next several weeks for your ballot for THE BEST OF GIG HARBOR awards. Announcement of winner will be in late May.

Join the fun and vote for what you love about our wonderful community. And then go out and enjoy it, because you are so lucky to live here!

April is National Volunteer Month

Gig Harbor is an awesome place for volunteers. Everyone you meet is a volunteer in some capacity, each individual finding a place to give some time and energy that focuses on something they are passionate about.
April is the time of month to stop and say thanks to those who give back with time. Time is such a valuable commodity. Worth its weight in gold, as they say. So THANK YOU Gig Harbor for all you do.
The City of Gig Harbor thanks their volunteers annually with a small but non-the-less sincere reception and awards ceremony. This year the event takes place on April 19th at 5:30-6:30pm at the Gig Harbor Civic Center. Dozens of citizens volunteer for the city in capacities such as parks commission, design review board, visitor information center volunteer and police department reserve. Each year the Mayor announces the annual Carol Gorman Memorial Volunteer of the Year award to one outstanding city volunteer, as well as the Gig Harbor Visitor Information Center Volunteer of the Year and several police department awards.
If you are not volunteering in your community, we can help connect you to a wide variety of volunteer opportunities available. Here is a link that will take you direct to a page on our website that lists local volunteer activities.

http://www.gigharborguide.com/files/library/4826b39ce78f25e0.pdf

In addition several local groups we work with are recruiting now for upcoming event volunteers;
Are you interested in helping the the 2010 Maritime Gig Festival June 5&6? Volunteers are needed to assist with the Grande Parade, Kitsap Credit Union Main Stage, Children's Fair, Fun Run and more. Contact the Gig Harbor Peninsula Area Chamber of Commerce to learn more at (253) 851-6865
Are you interested in history and the new Harbor History Museum? The museum is looking for volunteers to assist with their annual Basket Social Auction, the new and coming up in August Gig Harbor Food and Wine Festival and many other areas including programming for the new museum. Call (253) 858-6722
Are you interested in helping answer questions about our community? The Gig Harbor Visitor Information Center, located at 3125 Judson Street is open six days a week and needs lots of volunteers to greet guests and help them have an exceptional experience in Gig Harbor. (253) 857-4842
Are you interested in preserving the economic vitality of historic downtown Gig Harbor? The Gig Harbor Historic Waterfront Association is now the lead organization on the creation and maintenance of the beautiful summer flower baskets and planters and they need lots of volunteers to assist with that program. In addition they are currently planning Chalk the Walk for July 17th and volunteer are needed for that. (253) 514-0071
The Gig Harbor Film Festival is coming up in October, and is fast becoming one of the "signature" events for our community. Volunteers are desperately needed for all aspects of the festival. It's a great event, find out more at (253)851-1619 or http://www.gigharborfilmfestival.org/listpage.asp?Category=Get~Involved&Category2=Volunteer&Cat=Category
There are dozens of other fabulous volunteer opportunities in Gig Harbor including the FISH Food Bank, CoalitionHumane, PenMet Parks all of the service organizations, Peninsula Schools Foundation and many, many more. Check out the link

http://www.gigharborguide.com/files/library/4826b39ce78f25e0.pdf for more ideas.
And thanks Gig Harbor, for giving your time!

BE COUNTED - 2010 Census is Important

There is lots of talk now about the Census. But also lots of confusion. What is it and why is it important to our community?
The first census took place in 1790 to determine the number of seats each state would have in the U.S. House of Representatives. The census also was created to gain a better understanding of where people lived and to establish patterns of settlement as the nation grew.
Today, in addition to administering the census of population and housing the Census Bureau conducts more than 200 annual surveys including the American Community Survey, the Current Population Survey and economic censuses every five years.
A Census Snapshot
What: The census is a count of everyone residing in the United States
Who: All US residents must be counted - both citizens and non citizens
When: You will receive your questionnaire in March either by US mail or hand delivery. Some people in remote areas will be counted in person
Why: The US Constitution requires a national census once every 10 years to count the population and determine the number of seats each state will have i the US House of Representatives.
How: Households should complete and mail back their questionnaires upon receipt. Households that do not respond may receive a replacement questionnaire in early April. Census takers will visit households that do not return questionnaires to take a count in person.
Did you know;
It's Easy - 10 questions take 10 minutes to answer
It's Safe - The Census information is 100% confidential is not shared, even with out US Departments. You do not need to fear giving accurate information even if you are an undocumented resident, have issues with the law or the IRS. The information is protected.
It's Important - For every person who is not counted in our community, local jurisdictions loose $1400 per year for the next 10 years in federal support.
Read more about the Census at www.2010census.gov
Be Counted!

It's Farmers Market Time Again

Today, as I write, I have enjoyed an interesting mix of weather outside the window; rain, snow, sun, sleet, dark, sun, snow, rain. All day long it has been curious weather and all I keep thinking is - definitely spring in the Pacific Northwest.

So, just like that Pemco Ad with "socks and sandles guy" you gotta be ready for anything around here...or you'll never leave the house. And there is too much good stuff coming up to not get outside, especially since it is almost Farmers Market time in Gig Harbor.

I really lover our Farmers Market, which has come so very far since it began about a decade ago. And, according to market director Dale Schultz, this upcoming market season is going to be event better. Dale has spent the winter recruiting new farmers and new vendors including Gradwohl grass fed organic beef farmer and Last Bite Bakery as well as Ike's Fish and Seafood.

The Saturday Gig Harbor Farmers Market opens April 3rd at the new location on Kimball Drive. Take the Wollochet City Center exit off of Hwy 16 and follow the signs.

Thanks to a sponsorship by Columbia Bank, every Saturday the market will have live music including Billy Farmer, Steve Stefanowicz and Dave Calhoun - all local favorites.

The Farmers Market has a brand new website www.gigharborfarmersmarket.com and will also be selling new Farmers Market logo wear this year! It's all new and exciting for the Saturday market.

And additional good news, the Wednesday Green Market at Skansie Brothers Park is also expanding with more vendor, more activities and longer hours - open until 7pm. The Wednesday Green Market begins June 2nd. Stay tuned for more details on the Wednesday market coming to this Blog!

And see you on Saturday April 3rd for the opening of the Gig Harbor Farmers Market!!
www.gigharborguide.com

Gig Harbor Nominated for Best of the Northwest Escape

It's time to vote Gig Harbor! We have been nominated in the 2010 Best of the Northwest Escapse contest. Voting begins on MONDAY MARCH 15TH and runs through FRIDAY APRIL 18TH., so login today and get ready to help us win!

Why do we want to win? Tourism is a "clean" industry for our community during difficult economic times. Visitors bring dollars to our community and help our local businesses stay alive and thrive. Sales tax revenue is generated which in turn pays for services you need like roads, and sidewalk and water. We all benefit from a healthy local economy, and tourism is an easy way to make that happen, while also provding for the amenties that we as residents also like.

Please help Gig Harbor rise to the top in this contest, so we can show the rest of Western Washington what makes Gig Harbor such a great place to live and to visit!

Vote on line at http://best.king5.com/gig-harbor-wa/biz/180104

City of Gig Harbor Bond Rating Increase

City of Gig Harbor Receives Standard and Poor’s AA- Rating
Bond rating increase reflects professional and conservative city finances


Gig Harbor, Wash. – March 3, 2010 – Today the City of Gig Harbor received word it has been upgraded to AA- long term rating by Standard and Poor’s. The rating increase will mean a significant saving over the years to the City and its rate payers – about $92,000 in interest savings over the life of the bonds.

The Standard and Poor’s Report justifies the rating upgrade on;
• Location in the economically diverse Pierce County service area with above –average income levels
• Track record of maintaining adequate debt service coverage (DSC) and good liquidity
• Implementation of rate increases
The reports says the foregoing strengths are partially offset by the city’s additional debt needs to fund its current capital improvement plan and near-term need to expand capacity in both its water and sewer system.
The stable outlook reflects Standard and Poor’s expectation that the city will maintain sufficient system net revenues to ensure good DSC and cash on hand; and the stability of the rating will depend on the city’s ability to pass along future rate increases and remain in line with its forecast.

“I would like to thank Finance Director Dave Rodenbach” said City Administrator Rob Karlinsey, “as well as City Engineer Steve Misiurak, and all their staff for their outstanding work in demonstrating professionally and conservatively run city finances and a well-planned capital program in order to make the case for a higher bond rating.”

The report from Standard and Poor’s is available at www.cityofgigharbor.net

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Welcome Spring in Gig Harbor with "get out of the house" Events

(Sigh)
Spring.
Ahhhhh....
Can't express enough how much I am looking forward to daylight saving time, light, warm, birds, blooms, and mostly reacquainting with all of you who have been hibernating!!! Time to get out and about. So here are some suggestions to get your motor running over the next few weeks;

Paradise Theatre continues its run of DIRTY ROTTEN SCOUNDRELS. This is a great show! Check it out at www.paradisetheatre.org

Encore! Theater opens ANGRY HOUSEWIVES (returning by popular demand) March 12th. Don't miss it. www.encoretheater.org

Gig Harbor Civic Orchestra presents its spring concert "Morning, Noon, and Night" at the Milt Boyd Theater, Peninsula High School on March 13th at 7pm

Get Running! Two charity runs this month include Chapel Hill's annual RUN FOR BURMA on March 14th at 1pm and KING OF THE HILL, on the Cushman Trail, March 20th at 8:00am Learn more about both of these on our calendar of events at www.gigharborguide.com.

This is just a taste of what is coming up this spring. Get ready, get set, GET GIG!!

Cushman Trail Gap Project Complete, and Under Budget!

At the end of February the City of Gig Harbor completed a multi-month project known as the Cushman Trail Gap Project, connecting a section of the Cushman Trail between Cushman Trail Park and Soundview. This project was completed under budget!

Following a request from the State of WA DOT to improve bike facilities and trails, the City of Gig Harbor was awarded a $145K Grant from WSDOT to improve the facilitied in the area for pedestrian and bicycle safety and access. The project was designed, managed and inspected in house by City Staff Jeff Langhelm, Jeff Olsen, Amy Londgren, Marcos McGraw and Terri Reed. City crews completed the detailed work removing all existing 5 foot sidewalks, realignment of the roadway centerline on Hollycroft Street and construction of approximately 1000 lf of new 10 foot wide sidewalk, curb, gutter and electrical conduit for future street light installation.

The city's work was made significantly easier by the patience of partnership of local businesses in particular the owners of the 76 Gas Station and the Harvester Restaurant. Hats off to all who helped this project come to completion.

Construction on Harborview Drive Underway

The City of Gig Harbor is replacing 330 LF of existing asbestos cement water main with 8-inch ductile water main. Construction is now underway on Harborview Drive between Soundview and Pioneer for the next three weeks weather permitting. Construction takes place from 11pm-10am daily.
Preliminary design work (locating and saw cutting the road0 will be ongoing.This work will be performed in the mornings during low traffic volumes.
The City public works crews are working hard to create as little inconvenience as possible to the public and local businesses and appreciate your patience. If you have questions, please contact the Operations Department at the City of Gig Harbor at (253) 851-6170.

Be An Apprentice For a Day!

Gig Harbor Boat Shop is offering "Apprentice for a Day" Thunderbird #2 Restoration. Initiated in February 2010, participants in the ongoing program sign up for a single day and work under the guidance of the instructor on the restoration task of the day. The historic 26" Thunderbird Hull #2 (built in 1958 at Eddon Boatyard, now the home of Gig Harbor Boat Shop) is the initial focus of this program. In the first phase, participants are working under the guidance of Thunderbird sailboat specialist Jamie Storkman and Historic Preservationist Matthew Meachem to learn how to properly remove and document boat hardware, accessories and structural pieces using the "U.S. Secretary of the Interior's Standards for Historic Vessel Preservation Projects" as a guide.
Would you like to be an Apprentice For the Day? Call (253) 857- 9344 to sign up for one or all six sessions. Each session runs 10am - 2pm and costs $30 for members and $40 for non members.