Close your eyes. Think of rowing, alone, across the Tacoma Narrows, maybe to Vashon, maybe to Commencement Bay. The currents are strong, wind fierce and, well, it is midwinter and sleeting. This was life before the Tacoma Narrows Bridge. Yes, there were the Skansie Brothers’ ferries, but they just went from Tahlequah to Point Defiance. […]
People & Places
West Sound has an incredible number of talented artists, interesting people, fascinating places and popular destinations. We love to share their stories with our readers. These articles are only a sample of what we have in West Sound Magazine each issue — subscribe to the print version to see all of what we have to offer!
Posted inPeople & Places
The Kitsap Economic Development Alliance
The Kitsap Economic Development Alliance (KEDA) develops the world of Kitsap County, with the goal of uplifting the area and businesses. The alliance was founded in 1983 as the economic developer for the area. Executive Director Joe Morrison says that KEDA addresses issues facing for Kitsap County and local businesses. He explains that his job […]
Posted inPeople & Places
Seabrook — A Bucolic Destination on the Washington Coast
After the three-hour drive from Kingston through vast differences in topography and aged towns, Seabrook almost jolts you awake, exuding charm, fresh ocean air and a pretty, decidedly Nantucket look. The first exploration downtown uncovers immaculate streets, cute stores and smiles. As you make your first drive around the 500-plus home village, you experience the […]
Posted inPeople & Places
Chef Maynard “JJ” Meland
Maynard’s is like the treasured $25 bottle of wine you occasionally find that drinks like a $65-plus Grand Cru. Based on the restaurant’s food quality, cocktail offerings, service and setting, its prices are punching above its weight. An adventurous project, Maynard’s opened as “Kitsap’s Culinary Destination” in a very large, purpose-built space in 2019, only […]
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Fight Back Against Parkinson’s with Rock Steady Boxing
It’s 3 p.m. on a Thursday and upstairs at Gig Harbor’s Tom Taylor YMCA, a group of about 23 men and women are gathering, pulling up chairs to face mirrors, laughing and checking in on each other while the music of Fleetwood Mac plays in the background. Assistant Rock Steady Boxing coach Jennifer “Taz” Vazquez […]
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Holiday Gift Guide 2023
Shopping small could be a good call for Christmas. You’ll find wonderful stores across West Sound — Bainbridge Island, Poulsbo, Silverdale, Bremerton, Port Orchard and Gig Harbor. We feature 20 small businesses. We hope this gift guide will help you find the right gifts for your friends and family while supporting small businesses. Of course, […]
Posted inFeatured, People & Places
Christmas Collecting is a Family Tradition
Denise Harris and Margot Amestoy live on Bainbridge Island and collect Christmas treasures to decorate their homes. In addition to both of them being Christmas collectors, Harris and Amestoy are cousins and best friends. “She [Amestoy] was my best friend from birth,” says Harris, explaining that their mothers were best friends. “She was there the […]
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How to Deck the Halls for Your Holidays
“Deck the halls” is a phrase synonymous with the holiday season. Regardless of personal taste, bringing some extra cheer into the home during the winter months is a cherished pastime for many. From minimal clean decor to the maximalist designs that enchant you, part of what is best about holiday decor is the infusion of […]
Posted inPeople & Places
Celebrating Hanukkah
When people think of the holiday season, Christmas or New Year may come to mind. Many overlook the glorious holiday of Hanukkah — but this holiday is “not a substitute for Christmas,” says a local resident who has researched Hanukkah. “It’s a joyous celebration … coming together, eating good food and sharing tradition,” she says, […]