sring fall trees
The pessimist complains about the wind; the optimist expects it to change; the realist adjusts the sails. -William Ward
May 2016
GIG HARBOR DINING
GIG HARBOR LODGING

OPEN Wednesday - Sunday    

It's an exciting month in Gig Harbor. The sun is shining and there is so much going on. Soon we welcome our 2016-17 Official Visitor Guide to town. The guide will be included in your weekly Gateway subscription and will also be available at our Gig Harbor Visitor Center on Harborview Drive at the historic Skansie House, at the Gig Harbor Chamber of Commerce on Judson, and at the Gig Harbor Civic Center on Grandview Street. If you have visitors coming to town or would like a supply for your business, please contact us at 253-853-3554. This guide is about the community, for the community and visitors.

We hope you enjoy this month's Gigabyte, inside you will find something for everyone!
 
Sincerely,
Karen Scott & Mandy Silver
City of Gig Harbor Tourism & Communications Office


There is always something to do in Gig Harbor. During the month of May, book a 2 night stay at the regular rate Monday to Thursday and receive a 20% discount on your second night. Not valid Friday, Saturday or Sunday nights. Please ask for the "Mid-Week Refresher" when making your reservation. For more information or to make a reservation please call our toll free number at (888) 506-3580.
5th Annual Beer Fest, May 14th 
Join us May 14th at the Uptown Pavilion for the 5th annual Gig Harbor Beer Festival, a fund-raiser benefiting the Gig Harbor Kiwanis Foundation. Tickets are $30 online and at the door. This event sells out fast. Click here to purchase tickets now. Attendees will receive a 5 oz. taster cup, 8 taster tokens, and a program. Tickets may sell out soon. Get yours today. You must be 21+ to enter. 100% ID check. 

The Gig Harbor Street Scramble Returns, May 28th

It's time for a family-friendly 'treasure hunt' in the harbor on May 28th! The Gig Harbor Street Scramble is the official kick-off for summer and outdoor fun in the harbor. Registration can be completed by filling out the back of the Street Scramble rack card and turning it in to the Gig Harbor YMCA. Check in and on-site registration will be open at 8:30 am on the day of the event. Here's how it works:

* There are 30 check points circled on your Street Scramble map. Each check point has a description such as "sculpture" or "road bend".
* Visit the check points in any order, on foot or bike. You cannot use a motorized vehicle in the event.
* To prove you were at the checkpoint, answer a question such as "What is the second word on the sculpture plaque".
* Return to the finish line before your time is up.
* Enjoy refreshments, music, interactive booths and awards!

To learn more go to www.streetscramble.com. Register today to guarantee yourself a t! 
 
Cheers to Mom

Low Maintenance Landscapes & Plants, May 4th

The last class in the Natural Yard Care series is Low Maintenance Landscapes and Plants with Bill Peregrine, EPC, on Wednesday, May 4th from 6:30-8:30 pm. Bill is a landscape designer, builder and expert in organic sustainable landscapes. Reduce labor and enjoy your landscape more with these helpful hints: put the right plant in the right place, group plants by their watering needs, reduce fertilizer use, lower your water bill and take advantage of nature's free plant food. Learn more, the class is free! Call Walt at 253-798-4708 to reserve your space or email wburdsall@tpchd.org.
 
Pediatric/Adult First Aid, CPR & AED Class, May 5th
This course is intended for all persons taking a First Aid class for the first time and for persons needing re-certification after expiration of their First Aid, CPR, AED card. The Adult First Aid, CPR, AED class incorporates the latest science and teaches students to recognize and care for a variety of first aid emergencies such as burns, cuts, scrapes, sudden illnesses, head, neck, back injuries, heat and cold emergencies and how to respond to breathing and cardiac emergencies for victims about 12 years and older. Successful students will receive a certificate valid for two years. Class is held at Northwest Response, 3177 Harborview Drive, on Thursday, May 5th at 9am. For more information contact Tim Bliss at thomas@northwestresponse.com or call (877) 845-4783.
 
Dr. John M. Perkins at Harbor Covenant Church, May 14th
Join us for a weekend of significant conversation with Dr. John M. Perkins as he speaks on Leadership and Legacy in our community. The impact you make as a leader will last beyond your time in  your position. What enduring legacy will you leave for your community? If you're concerned about what legacy you will leave, if you've wondered how you can possibly make a difference in the world. Join Dr. Perkins for one of the events on Saturday, May 14 at Harbor Covenant or come to worship on Sunday, May 15. Come ready to be inspired! Photo courtesy of Seattle Pacific University.

Free Community Shred Event, May 14th
Bring your documents to be shredded to this free community shred event hosted by Fournier Insurance Solutions and Windermere Real Estate. A Lemay Mobile Shredding truck will be on-site at the parking lot adjacent to 3111 Harborview Drive (Fournier & Windermere Building) on Saturday, May 14th from 10 am until 1 pm, or until the truck is full. Up to 3 boxes per person will be accepted. Free coffee and donuts. For more information contact Sara Nickerson-Waible at 253-473-3010.

Celebrate Life on the Water with Gig Harbor Gondola
Are you looking to do something special for your anniversary, a birthday, or just because? Gig Harbor Gondola is what you are looking for! The only Venetian gondola operation in the Pacific Northwest is here to make your special event unforgettable! Each cruise includes an appetizer from Harbor General Store and you are welcome to bring your beverage of choice. Call 253-432-0052 to reserve your cruise, or visit www.gigharborgondola.com for more information.

Tides Tavern Classic Boat Show, May 14 & 15 
 

Author Presentation by EC Murray at Gig Harbor Library, May 24th
Join us Tuesday, May 24th from 6:30-8:00 pm at the Gig Harbor Library for a presentation by author EC Murray. In this searing story of transformation, meshed with reflection, romance, and mystery, Murray herds goats during roaring blizzards in the mountains of Southern France. Set in 1980, Murray carves out a life without heat, running water, or even a good grasp of French. Far from her younger days as a New England preppie and Oregon hippie, the challenges of farm work daunt her. She befriends an Australian shepherd, reflects on her spirituality, and muses on the man she left behind. Though she faces self-doubt, Murray maintains her humor, ekes fun where she can, and ultimately strengthens. When tragedy strikes her adopted family, our heroin summons belief in herself and becomes the leader they desperately need. Don't miss this special presentation.


Free Gardening Talks at Sehmel Park, May 14th
Register now for the Gig Harbor Yacht Club Junior Sail Program
Learn-to-sail camp is being offered to youth ages 9 to 18 in five-day sessions running from June 20 to Aug. 26. No sailing experience is necessary (just the ability to swim) for this sailing day camp, which runs from 9:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Monday-Friday. Classes will be taught by U.S. Sailing certified instructors out of West Shore Marina. Beginning and Intermediate level classes are being offered and students will gain on-the-water sailing experience, instruction in basic boating safety, seamanship, sailing etiquette and knot-tying. Cost is $320 per student per week and some discounts do apply, so please ask. Also, sailing Race Team is available to advanced sailors in grades 8 through 12 who have gained Intermediate skills. Practices are held in the afternoons and racers will have the opportunity to attend weekend regattas. For more information and registration for Sailing Camp or Race Team, visit www.ghycjuniorsail.org or call: (253) 214-6131.

Time to Get Your Paddle On
It's time to get on the water and Lee's SUP has everything you need to do it. From the SUP and kayak rental, or sale, to wetsuits, swimwear and accessories, he's got you covered. It's the perfect activity for a girl's or guy's night out or a family trip enjoying a different view of the many netsheds in the harbor. For more information visit www.leessup.com or call Lee Murray at 253-858-7341. 8829 N. Harborview Dr.
19th Annual Gig Harbor Garden Tour Tickets on Sale Soon
The Gig Harbor Garden Tour, now in it's 19th year, is a two-day, self-guided tour, showcasing outstanding gardens in the Gig Harbor area, takes place on Saturday and Sunday June 25 and 26th. Saturday hours are 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. and Sunday hours are 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Tickets will be available for purchase in person and online beginning June 1st at several locations in Pierce County. The Gig Harbor locations are: ACE Hardware-Gig Harbor, The Garden Room, Wilco, Kaleidoscope, Rosedale Gardens, Tickled Pink and in Lakebay Sunnycrest Nursery. Tacoma locations include Willow Tree Nursery and Garden Sphere Nursery. The cost of a ticket is $25 ($20 for groups of 10 or more). To purchase tickets online go to www.gigharborgardentour.org. Online tickets purchased after June 21, will be placed in "will call". Such tickets may be picked up at garden #1 on the tour.


Volunteer Opportunity at the Skansie Visitor Center
Calling all residents who are passionate about Gig Harbor! We are seeking additional volunteers at the Skansie Visitor's Center in downtown Gig Harbor. Volunteers typically work two, 3-hour shifts each month, and they help greet visitors, answer questions, and keep the center tidy. If you like talking to residents and visitors of all ages, please contact Karen Scott at scottk@cityofgigharbor.net or Becky Allen at becallen06@gmail.com.

Gig Harbor Peninsula FISH Food Bank turns 40
Forty years of neighbor helping neighbor could only be possible through fantastic volunteers and generous community support. Donors, volunteers and community members are invited to celebrate together and give thanks for forty years of service to our community. Join the celebration on Tuesday, May 17 from Noon to 1:30 PM at the Peninsula Lutheran Church, 6509 38th Ave, NW, Gig Harbor. RSVP by calling (253) 858-6179. More news about FISH here. Happy 40th Birthday Gig Harbor Peninsula FISH Food Bank and Community Services!


Gig Harbor Families Needed for French and Spanish Teens
Invite a teen from France or Spain to discover why Gig Harbor is such a special place to live! The students (ages 14 to 17) are coming to practice English, experience American culture and family life, and explore the Gig-Harbor area. Choose a 3 or 4 week program in July or August.

Families provide plenty of day-to-day conversation and interaction as well as 3 meals per day and a separate bed (sharing a room with a host sibling of a similar age and the same gender is fine). The students are welcome to join their host siblings at camps, activities, summer travel plans and sports practices. We will help make arrangements. A small hosting stipend is be provided.

The students bring their own spending money and are covered by comprehensive medical and accident insurance. Established in 1981, ANDEO is a nonprofit organization that welcomes more than 1,500 students to the Pacific Northwest for short-term homestays each year.

Find out more at andeo.org or contact Annie Leverich at annie@andeo.org or 503-274-1776.
 
April at the Harbor History MuseumHarbor History Museum
  • May 7th - Our Town: Norway Family Program
     
    Celebrate the beauty of springtime with traditional Japanese crafts. On April 9th from 1:00-3:00 pm, bring good luck and love into your life by creating a tissue paper cherry blossom tree. An origami instructor will be on hand to lead guests through a variety of paper folding techniques. This event is FREE.
  • May 12th - Our Town: Norway Adult Program
     
    As the gentle rain falls and brings forth new life, nourish your palette and soul with Chanoyu. On April 30th from 1:00-2:00 pm discover the art of a Japanese Tea Ceremony. Masaye Nakagawa of the Asia Pacific Cultural Center will narrate and perform this ancient ritual while guests enjoy tea and sweets. This program is $12 for museum members and $15 for non-museum members.
    If you are interested in learning more about our family programming or would like to make a reservation, please email elizabeth@harborhistorymuseum.org or call 253-858-6722 x6.
  • May 13th - Threads: Film Showing and Director's Panel
     
    We are excited to announce that on Friday, May 13th, the Museum will be offering a showing of THREADS and a panel with its directors and producers, Gig Harbor locals Cathy Stevulak and Leonard Hill. THREADS offers a picture of the unique life of Suraiya Rahman, Bangladeshi artist and embroiderer. In addition to her work as an accomplished craftswoman, Suraiya has dedicated her life to helping women of all backgrounds in Bangladesh develop skills, training, and economic self-sufficiency. THREADS will show at 6:00 pm. Tickets are $10 for members and $15 for non-members. Lights snacks and a cash bar will be available. For more information, contact Alphild Dick at alphildd@harborhistorymuseum.org or 253-858-6722 ext. 5.

For more information about Harbor History Museum and their many events, visit www.harborhistorymuseum.org.
 

Harbor WildWatch
  • May 17th - Cocktails & Fishtales On Tuesday, May 17th from 5:30-7:00 pm, join Harbor WildWatch for their May Cocktails & Fishtales event at The Hub Gig Harbor. These science-social events features a different topic each month, always relating to the Puget Sound region. Cocktails & Fishtales are a free for Harbor WildWatch members at a suggested $5 donation for non-members.
 
For more information about Harbor WildWatch events, visit www.harborwildwatch.org.

Gig Harbor BoatShop GH Boatshop
  • GHB Community Boat Restoration Program for Women
     
    Join Jaime Storkman, Gig Harbor BoatShop board member and long time wood boat owner, on Tuesday or Wednesdays as he guides a crew of women through a boat maintenance project. Depending on the project you may learn how to refinish a boat, repair damaged structure, or how to use various boatbuilding tools such as block planes, chisels, and hand power tools like drills and sanders.$10/non-members, free for members. Call 253-857-9344 to register.
  • 2016 Family Boat Building Program
     
    This is a 2-day program occurring on a Saturday and Sunday from 9 am-5 pm. Each group is assigned their own wooden boat expert who will guide your team every step of the way through the construction of a 12-foot, 90-pound Salt Bay Skiff. On Sunday, after a ceremonial launch and row on Gig Harbor Bay, the skiff will be yours to take home and enjoy forever. Call 253-857-9344 to book your reservation. 
  • GHB Community Boat Restoration Program
    Saturday from 9 am-5 pm. Learn from master boatbuilder Tom Regan as he guides your team through a boat building, boat repair or boat restoration project. Community Boat Restoration Program projects have included building a 15.8 foot Lake George rowing boat, and the restoration and electric re-power of two classic Puget Sound motor launches the "A.R. Fisk"  and the "Gaylynn." $10/non-member, free for members. Call 253-857-9344 to register.
For more information about GHB events, visit www.gigharborboatshop.org.

Arts and Entertainment
 
  • Next to Normal - May 6 & 7, 13 & 14
    Paradise Theatre
    Next To Normal explores how one suburban household copes with crisis and mental illness. Winner of three 2009 TONY Awards including Best Musical Score and the 2010 Pulitzer Prize, Next To Normal was also chosen as "one of the year's ten best shows" by critics around the country, including The Los Angeles Times, The Washington Post, Rolling Stone and The New York Times.  
    more info
     
  • First Saturday Art Walk
    - May 7th
    Various Downtown Businesses
     
    Indulge your love of art at the First Saturday Art Walk every month along Gig Harbor's Downtown Waterfront from 10-5 pm. This free event allows art enthusiasts to stroll through six galleries featuring artist demonstrations, refreshments, and displays reflecting a diverse selection of mediums and styles. Participating galleries include Ebb Tide Gallery, Gallery Row, Water's Edge Gallery & Framery, Inc., Blackwater Trading Company, Sea Hags & Morso Wine Bar. www.gigharborwaterfront.org
     
  • Jazz at Morso presents Pearl Django - May 7th
    Morso Wine Bar 
    The band's signature style is marked by pristine and dexterous string work, colors of Bal Musette, the steady pulse of rhythm guitar and an unmistakable swing that delights audiences of all musical sensibilities. Throughout the years, Pearl Django has cultivated a devoted and enthusiastic following and they continue to play to packed houses wherever they perform. 
    Tickets for all of our featured shows are limited please call 253-530-3463 for availability! Visit www.morsowinebar.com for information on this and upcoming concerts, including the Tacoma Symphony String Quartet on May 22nd.
     
     
  • Reception for featured artist Shelly Wilkerson - May 7th
    Ebb Tide Gallery
     
    The Ebb Tide Gallery is pleased to present a new member, Shelly Wilkerson, as our featured artist for May. Coined as "Norman Rockwell Meets MAD Magazine", Shelly Wilkerson's art chronicles the coming-to-maturity of man and womankind in a light-hearted and heartwarming merriment that scoffs at aging. Stop by and meet Shelly during Gig Harbor's Art Walk from 1-5 pm on May 7th. The art pictured is "Bye Bye Birdie". www.ebbtidegalleryofgifts.com

     
  • Mostly Monthly Concert Series featuring Ronny Cox - May 7th
    Olalla Community Hall
    If you saw the movie "Deliverance" you'll remember Ronny Cox from the "dueling banjos" scene. Cox was the guitar player in that legendary movie moment. Since then he has played in more than 125 movies and TV shows but, to hear him tell it, what he loves most is singing and playing guitar. On May 7, Cox will bring his band and his stories to the Olalla Community Hall in the May edition of the Mostly Monthly Concert Series. As always, the show begins with an all-invited potluck at 6pm. Music starts at 7pm. Suggested donation of $20 but no one is turned away. www.olallacommunityclub.org
     
  • The Fab Three - May 21st
    Chapel on Echo Bay
     Presented by Fox Island's historic Chapel on Echo Bay, relive "Beatlemania" with the Fab Three! Enjoy "pub grub" generously hosted by The Hub at Gig Harbor & Harmon Brewing Co. 6 pm reception, 7 pm concert. Seating is limited, be sure to book early. Tickets are $30 for Chapel Society members, $35 for non-members and can be purchased at www.brownpapertickets.com or by calling 253-549-7039. All proceeds benefit the "Save the Steeple" campaign.
  • Peninsula Community Chorus Spring Concert - May 22nd
    Fox Island United Church of Christ
     
    Come to hear lively spirituals, folk songs, jazz ... the great music that is such a part of our American heritage. From Beautiful City and Deep River to Shenandoah and Embraceable You ... a program filled with music you love. Fox Island United Church of Christ, 726 Sixth Ave, at 3 pm. All are welcome, and a reception with light refreshments will follow the performance. Admission is free; donations appreciated! www.peninsulacommunitychorus.com
For more events and entertainment visit www.gigharborguide.com.

Dining, Gig Harbor Style
  • Anthony's at Gig Harbor
    Fresh, local rhubarb from Richter Farms have arrived at Anthony's Restaurants! Our team of chefs have developed a myriad of combinations to showcase this local delicacy in a variety of different recipes. Take your pick from Rhubarb-inspired cocktails, fresh Alaska Lingcod chargrilled with citrus butter and finished with a rhubarb-strawberry coulis and don't miss our famous Rhubarb Slump! Please check our website for full details and availability at www.anthonys.com.  Don't forget that Mother's Day is May 8! Celebrate the occasion with us and make your reservations today. (253) 853-6353
  • Morso
    Cinco de Mayo, May 5th, beginning at 4 pm. Come and celebrate Cinco de Mayo with us. We will be serving our pozole halibut & chorizo tacos, steak and mango tostada shrimp, stuffed chili rellenos w
    ith our house made Sangria and Negro Modelo beer help quench your thirst, it's the perfect way to celebrate.

    Does Mom like steak or does Mom like fish? On May 8th we are having a great day just for Mom no matter whether they love a great filet, fresh halibut, or sea scallops.
    Mom can also select from some of our favorite desserts like strawberry coconut cheesecake, cardamom and saffron panna cotta and more. With special champagne and sparkling wines, Mom will have a great day. Mother's Day falls on Bartender Special Sunday where we have great $5 glasses of special wines. Stop in with your favorite honey, wife, or girlfriend for a Mother's Day to remember. Call 253-530-3463 for reservations. www.morsowinebar.com
     
  • JW Restaurant

     
    Mother's
    Day brings two special features to our full dinner menu! The first: a 6 oz petite filet mignon with butter poached lobster bites in a merlot sauce, crispy smashed potatoes and seasonal vegetables, the second: fresh black cod filet, rubbed with garlic and olive oil, grilled and finished with a tomato avocado salsa, herb roasted potatoes and seasonal vegetables. Call 253-858-3529 to book your reservations, or visit www.jwgigharbor.com for more information.
     
Did We Miss Your Event?
The Gigabyte is published monthly, with the exception of January. While we do our best to include all events, due to the amount of time involved, we simply cannot find every event happening in the Harbor. This is where we need your help. If you have an event that you would like included in the Gigabyte, please email it to silverm@cityofgigharbor.net no later than the 20th of the month prior (don't forget the five W's and the H (who, what, where, when, why & how) in your email). Pictures may be submitted but we cannot guarantee that they will be included. Also, be sure to enter your event onto our city calendar for all to see at www.gigharborguide.com! Contact Mandy Silver at the email address above or at 253-853-3554 with questions or for more information.

More Gigs
  • SOLD - The Human Trafficking Experience - Much more than just an exhibit, SOLD is a multi-sensory experience that will educate you on the shocking reality of human trafficking, both locally and globally. For more information, contact  bburgess@chapelhillpc.org or call 253-853-0286.
     
  • Net Loss - Presented by Meaningful Movies in Gig Harbor at Agnus Dei Lutheran Church, 10511 Peacock Hill Ave NW. Net Loss examines the controversy surrounding salmon farms, and the threat they pose to wild salmon. A small donation is welcome. Meaningful Movies in Gig Harbor presents documentary films on the 2nd Friday evening of every month, along with a forum for open community discussions.
  • AARP Smart Driver Class - AARP Smart Driver Class is from 8:45 am to 1:00 pm and is a 2 day class. This program is designed for the senior driver (50 and older), but any person can enroll, and will be presented with a certificate upon completing the (required) eight hours, but must meet the minimum age to be eligible for their insurance policy premium reduction. For registration and further information please call (253) 265-8508.
  • Every Tuesday join Gig Harbor Audio for 'Disk After Dark'. Come listen to an entire album from start to finish, be it the Gorillas, Carlos Santana, or something classical or jazz. Come celebrate the actual art of the album - all are welcome. Read more about what Gig Harbor Audio is up to here.
  • Book Club at Gig Harbor Audio Wednesdays from 6 pm - 8 pm, local author, D.L. Fowler, hosts SoundAudiobooks - a brown-bag dinner discussion group inside Gig Harbor Audio.
  • Every Tuesday, attend a no-cost Freedom From Tobacco Weekly Support Group from 5:30-6:30 pm at St. Anthony Hospital. Drop-ins welcome.  For more info call (253) 223 7538.
  • Coming June 5th & 6th - The Maritime Gig Fest. If you are interested in participating in the festival through a booth, the parade, or by volunteering to help make this event possible visit www.maritimegig.com or call the Gig Harbor Chamber office at 253-851-6865.
For all of the other events going on in the City, please view our online calendar at www.gigharborguide.com.
 


City News 

CONSTRUCTION UPDATES

Donkey Creek Tree Removal -
Work to removed distressed alder trees along the banks of the creek will begin this spring.  The logs will remain on site above the high water mark  as "nurse logs".  Also, two fir trees and a maple tree on the on the north embankment of Austin Street will be felled and all logs and branches disposed offsite. Work is anticipated to begin in May.
 
Grandview Forest Park Tree RemovalAll trees in the park identified as highest risk to life, limb and property have been felled.  Soon the city will hire a contractor to restore the work areas.  The trails throughout the park, except for the asphalt path along the west side of the park, will be closed until construction areas are revegetated.  Anticipated completion is mid-May.
  
Kimball Drive / Hunt Street Overlay -
Work to upgrade existing crosswalks and associated ramps to meet ADA compliance and street overlay will take place along Kimball Drive and Hunt Street this summer. To subscribe to city updates for the project area, please call 253-853-7618. 
 
Ancich Waterfront Park -
Ancich Ad Hoc Committee Meeting
Thursday, May 12th from 2:30pm-4pm in the Council Chambers, 3510 Grandview Street.  The Ancich Ad Hoc Committee will meet to review changes made to designs based on April meeting feedback.  Members of the public are welcome to sit in and listen.  There will be opportunity for public input to the Ad Hoc Committee/staff. 

Ancich Public Information Session  
Saturday, May 14th from 9am-11am in the Council Chambers.  Members of the public are invited to come learn about the Ancich Waterfront Park Upland proposals and give feedback.  Open house style, drop in basis (come on your schedule, leave on your schedule). 

New Facebook Page -
The City has launched a brand new Facebook page for municipal updates. Follow the page here. Please like page for meeting and open house information.

For more City construction updates, visit the Public Works Construction Project Page.

Fab Photo of the Month

 
Photo by Mandy Silver.
Submit your favorites on our Facebook page today!