West Sound Magazine is produced by Premier Media Group. Our dedicated staff of writers, graphic and web designers, photographers and industry experts offer the finest content and creative design in West Sound.
-
Sandra Andrews-Strasko
Specializing in working with clients with ADHD, paperwork overwhelm and chronic disorganization, Sandra Andrews-Strasko is a member of NAPO, as well as the Institute for Challenging Disorganization, where she is in the process of becoming a Certified Professional Organizer (CPO-CD). emptyyournest.com 206-818-6472 More by Sandra Andrews-Strasko
-
Jim Antonucci, Executive Director of Heron's Key
Executive director of retirement community Heron’s Key, Jim Antonucci holds more than 15 years of experience in senior care. Antonucci earned his doctorate degree in design construction and planning with a research focus in environmental gerontology from the University of Florida. He currently oversees day-to-day operations at Gig Harbor’s largest Life Plan Community in Gig Harbor, Heron’s Key. More by Jim Antonucci, Executive Director of Heron’s Key
-
Jennifer Bailey
Jennifer Bailey is the communications and outreach manager for Martha & Mary. Martha & Mary has been caring for children, seniors and families throughout Greater Kitsap for over 125 years. The nonprofit’s exceptional care services include rehab, senior housing, home care, care management, long-term care and early learning programs. Find out more at www.marthaandmary.org. More by Jennifer Bailey
-
Saffronia Baldwin
Saffronia Baldwin launched her interior design business 16 years ago because of the thrill of creating 3-D spaces. For her clients, her goal is to make the happiest and most inspiring environment where they can thrive and live fully. She has added online design coaching to her list of services, helping homeowners who want to do their own interior design but need a vision and some ideas to kick start their projects. Her business is centered around Bainbridge Island, North Kitsap and Seattle. To forever change the way you look at your home, read her lively informative weekly blog. More by Saffronia Baldwin
-
Jim Barnes
Born in Bremerton when Harrison Hospital was on Sixth and Chester, Jim Barnes is the son of a mechanic and was introduced to mechanics and equipment at a young age. A graduate of Central Kitsap High, he worked his way through Olympic College while employed by the torpedo station at Keyport. He served in the Navy, working on fighter aircraft during the Vietnam conflict, and later resumed employment at local military installations. Barnes began restoring, racing and enjoying Corvettes, then switched to “old cars” shortly after winning a 1991 road-racing championship. His garage is home to a number of old cars and besides restoring and repairing them, he takes them to various car events around the Northwest. More by Jim Barnes
-
Mary Beth Barrett
Mary Beth Barrett is an undergraduate student at Northwest University in Kirkland, studying English. When not in class, she can be found working in Student Services or reading a good book. She is currently an editorial intern with WestSound Magazine. More by Mary Beth Barrett
-
Jennifer Beard
Growing up around the alligator-edged rivers and lakes of Florida, Jennifer Beard developed an appreciation for the subtle beauty of the swamps, springs and wetlands. Her desire to explore nature led her to the University of Alaska Fairbanks to study plant and soil science. Not only did she live in a beautiful state with snow and mountains, but she also experienced her first real winter. Thankfully, studying plants involved spending time in the warm greenhouses. The unspoiled beauty of Alaska inspired her to study natural science illustration at the University of Washington. Jennifer enjoys drawing, gardening and exploring the beaches and trails of Washington with her two children. She is the development associate for Harbor WildWatch, assisting with marketing and volunteer management, and cultivating support for the nonprofit. Her initial exposure to Harbor WildWatch was as a parent, when her son enrolled in the Sea Star & Beyond program. More by Jennifer Beard
-
Eileen Black
Recognized as a top-producing agent on Bainbridge Island, Washington, Eileen specializes in Bainbridge’s luxury waterfront real estate market. Throughout her 10 years of experience in real estate, Eileen has established herself as a high-profile agent providing concierge services to her clientele. Her savvy marketing expertise and persuasive negotiating skills have helped her clients buy and sell properties in some of the most exclusive areas on Bainbridge. She holds many certifications and designations pertaining to the luxury market including CLHMS and Million Dollar Guild recognition. Eileen may be reached at 206-696-1540. More by Eileen Black
-
Tess Bolosan Haddon
A freelance editor and writer, Tess Bolosan Haddon has helped authors with varied projects, including three bestselling novels, over 15 years. A registered nurse, she has drawn on her medical career in her short fiction. She has authored and presented training programs on diversity and inclusion and is on the board of the Filipino American Association of Kitsap County. More by Tess Bolosan Haddon
-
Barb Bourscheidt
A Gig Harbor artist potter and community activist, Barb Bourscheidt is a freelance writer who writes on subjects of personal interest, usually the arts, gardening, cooking and the environment. A working artist, she creates pottery that reflects her love of nature, incorporating leaf motifs on surfaces of functional kitchen, garden and decorative ware. Although posts are infrequent, Barb has a personal blog at clayladybarb.blogspot.com. More by Barb Bourscheidt
-
Cary Bozeman
Currently the president of The Bozeman Group, Cary Bozeman consults to help cities revitalize their downtowns. He is the former executive officer with the Port of Bremerton, and the former mayor of Bellevue and Bremerton. He and his wife. Kerri, reside in Manette. More by Cary Bozeman
-
Dana Kelley Bressette
A garden columnist with an interest in ecological gardening and native plants, Dana Kelley Bressette is currently the plant production manager at Woodbrook Native Plant Nursery in Gig Harbor. She has a bachelor’s degree in ornamental horticulture from Washington State University and a master’s in urban horticulture from the University of Washington’s Center for Urban Horticulture. She has also worked in the Horticulture Department at Tacoma Parks. Dana is available to speak at lectures and workshops in the Puget Sound region. See her previous work at www.habitathorticulturepnw.com and www.nativeplantspnw.com. More by Dana Kelley Bressette
-
Sallie Wagner Brown
Sallie Wagner Brown is a former teacher who has a bachelor’s degree in French and English literature and a master’s in education and counseling. She is a blogger, freelance writer, traveler and rookie boater. Sallie’s stories have been published in “Cup of Comfort,” “Chicken Soup for the Soul,” “Not Your Mother’s Book” and “Blended, Writers on the Step-Family Experience.” More by Sallie Wagner Brown
-
Stephen Browning
Stephen Browning is a retired senior nonprofit executive, writer, blogger, voiceover announcer, singer and community advocate and promoter for the performing arts. He served as vice president for the American Cancer Society and president and CEO for Pet Partners, has produced major fundraising events and revues and has performed in numerous events and commercials. More by Stephen Browning
-
Amy Burnett
Educated at Olympic College, Central University and LA Art Center College of Design. An artist who is a fourth-generation Bremertonian, she currently lives in Bremerton, is married to Earl Sande and owns and operates the Amy Burnett Fine Art Gallery. Amy also produces films and documentaries, is a columnist and author of several books. More by Amy Burnett
-
Bruce Caldwell
A lifelong car enthusiast, Bruce Caldwell has an English degree from the University of Washington. In 1975 he joined CAR CRAFT as associate editor. He was a feature editor at HOT ROD and editor of Chevy High Performance, Muscle Car Review, Mustangs and Fords, Chevy Action, Corvette Milestones, Street Rod Quarterly, Mopar Milestones, Mustang Milestones, and Muscle Car Milestones. He has authored several best-selling automotive how-to books and written for numerous national magazines. He has tested over 2,000 new vehicles. He restores collector cars in a well-equipped home shop. Bruce is married with three children. More by Bruce Caldwell
-
Joan Carson
A founding member of Kitsap Audubon, the local chapter of the National Audubon Society, Joan Carson is a columnist whose primary subjects are birds, birdwatchers and birding. For more than four decades, her columns have appeared regularly in the Kitsap Sun, Tacoma News Tribune, The Olympian and the Peninsula Daily News. Joan is past president of the Northwest Outdoor Writers Association and has traveled throughout North America and the world while enjoying and writing about outdoor subjects. The granddaughter of Kitsap County pioneers, she lives with her husband in Poulsbo in their own Backyard Wildlife Sanctuary that was established with the National Wildlife Federation and the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife in 1976. More by Joan Carson
-
Carrie Clark
The owner of Cook’s Whimsy, a kitchen shop in Gig Harbor, Carrie Clark has been a Pacific Northwest resident for 15 years. While growing up, she lived in Indonesia and China, where she learned to appreciate many cuisines (her comfort food is still Indonesian food). She attended the culinary program at Seattle Central Community College (now Seattle Culinary Academy) and worked in the restaurant industry for several years. Carrie also has a bachelor’s degree in finance. Besides handling the store operations, she occasionally gets to do cooking classes. More by Carrie Clark
-
Teri Cole, (in memoriam)
Teri Cole is a 63-year resident of Bainbridge Island. She is a landscape designer known for her containers, arbors and floral decorations. She loves butterflies, birds, dogs, birdhouses and paintings. More by Teri Cole, (in memoriam)
-
Lary Coppola, (in memoriam)
Having been a gearhead since he was a pre-teen, Lary’s been a hot rodder, drag racer, customizer, restorer, and mechanic — as well as a nationally published automotive writer for over 25 years. In addition to appearing here, his automotive reviews are accessible at WestSound Magazine Magazine and appear in 14 city/lifestyle magazines around the country, and are accessible through the Auto Reviewers Facebook page. He is a member of the Northwest Automotive Press Association and served two terms as its President and two as its Treasurer. He is also a member of the Motor Press Guild. Follow him on Twitter at @LaryCoppola. #Larythecarguy More by Lary Coppola, (in memoriam)
-
Spring Courtright
The daughter and niece of librarians, Spring Courtright has organizing in her blood. She has owned and operated Spring Cleaning Home Organization since 2012 and finds joy in helping transform spaces from cluttered and chaotic to organized and peaceful. She most loves to watch the lightness of being and shedding of stress that occurs with her clients that allows them to make other transformations in their lives. Spring has also been an outdoor guide for 20 years and co-owns Journey For Purpose, in which she leads women on local and international kayak trips. For more organizing tips, inspiration and funny quips, find Spring on Facebook. More by Spring Courtright
-
Tim Davis
Tim Davis is an award-winning photographer who lives with his wife in Kingston. Since their retirement to the area in 2018, they have been scouring Kitsap County, searching for the best dining choices, as well as the Pacific Northwest for worthy travel destinations. More by Tim Davis
-
Kaiti Dewhirst
As a young child wading in Puget Sound tide pools, Kaiti Dewhirst fell in love with sea creatures. Taking a marine biology class in her senior year of high school made her rethink her original plan to go to art school, and she is now pursuing a degree in environmental education so she can teach others about being good stewards of the amazing world we live in. After having the opportunity to teach in local elementary schools and participate in public education programs as a Harbor WildWatch intern in fall 2014, Kaiti is thrilled to continue working with this nonprofit organization. More by Kaiti Dewhirst
-
Leslee Dixon
Leslee Dixon is co-founder with Pam Buitenveld of The Food Shed and the Mossback Café in Kingston. Simply put, they’re farmers with a café and are inspired to create and serve delicious seasonal menus that come from food grown at their own farm and other area farms as well. They host farm dinners and classes. When they founded The Food Shed in 2010, the objective was to promote conscious consumption by advocating local and sustainable food systems. The Mossback Café is open 5-9 p.m. Thursday through Sunday and is located at 26185 Ohio Avenue in Kingston. More by Leslee Dixon
-
Deserée Doty
Deserée Doty is currently the manager at the local Revive Coffeehouse in Port Orchard, Washington. She graduated with a Bachelor’s degree in Communication from Grand Canyon University, as well as a minor degree in Sports Management. After college, she also completed an internship with the Walt Disney World company in Orlando Florida. More by Deserée Doty
-
Wendy Dutenhoeffer
Wendy Dutenhoeffer is a mortgage loan advisor with Evergreen Home Loansand also supports her affiliation as a Homes for Heroes Lending Specialist (NMLS 1965346). She has a passion for helping people and finds it incredibly rewarding to be a small part in someone’s homeownership journey. Dutenhoeffer is an award-winning finance director with over 25 years of experience and has a bachelor’s degree in business administration and finance from Idaho State University. She loves serving others and is especially proud of her time as a search-and-rescue K9 handler. Dutenhoeffer is published in Police Magazine and Women in Law Enforcement, and was a featured blogger for GovLoop. More by Wendy Dutenhoeffer
-
Kevin Dwyer
A Bainbridge Island freelance writer, Kevin Dwyer was a business editor with the Kitsap Sun and was previously involved in the startup and management of the Puget Sound Business Journal in Seattle and Washington CEO Magazine. He also spent nearly 20 years as a chamber of commerce executive in Washington and Oregon. More by Kevin Dwyer
-
Leatrice Eiseman
Eiseman is a color specialist who has been called “America’s color guru.” In fact, her color expertise is recognized worldwide, especially as a prime consultant to Pantone, Inc. She has helped many companies, from small one person start-ups to large corporations make the best and most educated choice of color for product development, logos and identification, brand imaging, web sites, packaging, point of purchase, interior/exterior design or any other application where color choice is critical to the success of the product or environment. More by Leatrice Eiseman
-
Maia Eisen
A freelance writer and professional garden designer who lives in Poulsbo, Maia is a member of the Garden Writers Association. She writes about gardening, travel, people and living well and wisely on the planet. As a garden designer, she specializes in container gardens. More by Maia Eisen
-
Luba Fetterman
The owner of Harmonia Landscapes on Bainbridge Island, Luba Fetterman is an ecoPRO certified horticulturist. Whether designing a garden, teaching clients how to care for their own landscapes, or providing fine pruning or maintenance services, Luba’s focus is on gardens that nurture people while remaining in harmony with the natural world. She has a bachelor of science degree in marine biology from Texas A&M University as well as an associate of technical arts degree in ornamental horticulture and landscape design from Edmonds Community College. Luba has been a Kitsap County Master Gardener since 2008. When not busy in her own or her clients’ gardens, she can be found sailing on her 30-foot Lyle Hess cutter that she built with her husband, or backpacking in our beautiful mountains. More by Luba Fetterman
-
Stephanie George
With nearly four decades of hands-on involvement in nonprofit leadership and philanthropy, Stephanie George has dedicated much of her career to making a positive impact, particularly within Kitsap County. Her extensive experience in the nonprofit sector has given her a front-row seat to countless acts of generosity and a keen understanding of our enduring need for community — not just as a place, but as an experience as well. Her passion for philanthropy, coupled with a wealth of practical experience, continues to drive her commitment to making a meaningful difference in the places she calls home. She and her husband live in Gig Harbor and can often be found cruising the Salish Sea. More by Stephanie George
-
Maureen Gilmer
Landscape designer and horticultural expert Maureen Gilbert has more than 30 years of experience in the industry and has written 18 books on gardening. She has practiced in a wide range of climates and currently resides in the high desert of California. Her newest book, “The Colorful Dry Garden,” is due for release on Jan. 30, 2018. Through color photos, easy to read keys, Q&A sections, budgeting information, timelines and more, readers will learn about many beautiful, bold, blooming plants that thrive in areas with limited water, and how to incorporate them in all areas of the garden for a gorgeous, environmentally friendly landscape. More by Maureen Gilmer
-
Charlee Glock-Jackson
Freelance writer Charlee Glock-Jackson is the founder of the Olalla Bluegrass & Beyond Festival and the caretaker of an enchanted Olalla forest that’s been in her family nearly 70 years. More by Charlee Glock-Jackson
-
Sue Goetz
Sue Goetz is an award-winning garden designer, writer and speaker. Through her business, Creative Gardener, she works with clients to personalize outdoor spaces, from garden coaching to full landscape design. Writing and speaking are other ways she shares her love of the garden. Her motto, “inspiring gardeners to create,” defines her talks and hands-on workshops. Goetz is the author of “A Taste for Herbs” and “The Herb Lover’s Spa Book.” More by Sue Goetz
-
Jacqueline Goodwill
Raised on the Peninsula and returning to Gig Harbor in 2000, Jacqueline Goodwill has been active throughout the Peninsula community ever since. West Sound’s people and places inspire her to put pen to paper whenever she has an opportunity. Jacquie is a marketing and communication professional and principal of Peninsula Strategic Communications. More by Jacqueline Goodwill
-
Judy Granlee-Gates
A native Washingtonian, Judy Granlee-Gates has lived in Poulsbo for nearly 30 years. She and her husband own Joe Gates Construction, Inc. in Poulsbo, specializing in custom building and remodeling. The company is also an authorized StarMark cabinet dealer. Judy has been in the construction industry for 28 years and enjoys seeing a home go from ho-hum to fantastic. She has been recognized nationally by Custom Home magazine for outstanding customer service, and on the state and local level for the company’s new home construction and remodeling excellence. She is a past president of the Kitsap Building Association’s Remodelers Council and past board member of the Kitsap Building Association. More by Judy Granlee-Gates
-
Maura Kate Hallam
A Kitsap-based writer who has been writing professionally for more than 15 years on topics ranging from technology to health and wellness. Owner of Hallam Creative Services, she has a long history of working with words. Maura first became seriously interested in writing as a career when she won the prestigious New England Council of Teachers of English Excellence Award in Writing in 1988. She went on earn a BA in English Literature at Boston College, and spent a year studying creative writing at Emerson College. 360-620-2807 More by Maura Kate Hallam
-
Ric Hallock
A freelance writer who currently contracts with the Kitsap Sun to produce Gig Harbor Life, Ric Hallock has worked as features editor for the Kitsap Sun and as editor of The Peninsula Gateway. He lives with his wife, two sons and a cat in Gig Harbor and in his spare time, he coaches JV baseball at Peninsula High School, hosts a radio show on KGHP, and takes long motorcycle rides. More by Ric Hallock
-
James Harrington
An avid fly angler and fisheries professional, James Harrington currently works for the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife conducting stream surveys for spawning salmon. James previously oversaw the education program at the Gig Harbor Fly Shop and was a regular contributor to the shop’s blog. He grew up in Gig Harbor before spending a number of years in Texas. He has a bachelor of arts degree in English from Texas State University and a master’s in environmental studies from The Evergreen State College. His thesis work was focused on land-use effects on salmon and steelhead streams in the Hood Canal region. James is committed to addressing conservation issues surrounding fisheries in the Pacific Northwest. More by James Harrington
-
Kathy Haskin
Beginning her work in environmental education in 1986, Kathy has taught and designed outdoor learning experiences for students of all ages at centers throughout the United States. Kathy has written and published three environmental education curriculum guides focused on sustainable development and watershed topics. She, her husband John, and their three teenagers came to the Island from Jackson, WY, where Kathy coordinated the Jackson Campus of Teton Science Schools, a residential environmental education and conference facility. In addition to being the education and communications manager for Bainbridge Island Arts & Humanities Council, Kathy devotes her time to her family, community work and writing. More by Kathy Haskin
-
Margaret Hay
Margaret Hay is a senior organizer with Blue Nest Home, LLC, in Silverdale. Specializing in working with clients who have hoarding disorders and chronic disorganization issues, she is a member of the Institute for Challenging Disorganization, where she is in the process of becoming a certified professional organizer. More by Margaret Hay
-
Laureen Haydock-Lund
Laureen Lund is a Silverdale native who has spent the past 25 years living in Gig Harbor. Retired from a career in marketing, media and public relations, Laureen and her husband, Arne, are on a multiyear world tour that will take them to all corners of the globe in search of adventure in their fabulous 50s. Laureen is a freelance writer and manager of the popular blog: More by Laureen Haydock-Lund
-
Cynthia Herrick
Passionate for gardening since moving to Bainbridge Island in 1972, Cynthia Herrick is a designer who enjoys taking the artistic spirit into the garden. She worked at Bainbridge Gardens for 10 years and also coordinated Bainbridge in Boom. She has had her gardens featured on HGTV. More by Cynthia Herrick
-
Lisa Horanyi
An East-Coast transplant and Georgia native, Lisa Horanyi moved to Kitsap County in 2014 from Charlottesville, Virginia. She is the education and outreach coordinator in the Sewer Utility Division at Kitsap County Public Works. Lisa has an advertising degree from the University of Georgia and has written on a variety of topics including science, transportation and environmental issues. She enjoys exploring the Kitsap Peninsula with her husband and twin daughters and bringing new life to their circa 1901 home in downtown Poulsbo. More by Lisa Horanyi
-
Brooke Huffman
Brooke Huffman is owner of The Social Sip, a social media marketing agency for wineries. She has an MBA and also holds a wine fundamentals certificate from the International Sommelier Guild and is a Level 2 WSET. She is also the Executive Director of the Winery Alliance of Bainbridge Island and until recently, was a winery owner. In all her free time (joking) she loves to write about wine! More by Brooke Huffman
-
Nicole Johnson
Nicole Johnson lives in Port Ludlow with her husband and children. Together they love fishing, hunting and dining at local restaurants while listening to live music. Visit her recipe site! More by Nicole Johnson
-
Tim Kelly
Tim Kelly is the editor of the Kitsap Peninsula Business Journal. He joined Wet Apple Media in April 2012 after a stint as editor of the Port Orchard Independent. He has worked in journalism since 1986, at a variety of newspapers in Washington and Oregon and for the Associated Press. Tim is a transplanted Midwesterner originally from Kansas City, Mo., but he has called the Pacific Northwest home for more than two decades. He and his family live in the Port Orchard area. More by Tim Kelly
-
Randall King, KBA Executive Officer
Randall King is the Executive Director of the Kitsap Building Association (KBA). He oversees KBA’s operations, Advocacy, Education, and the Builder Grant Program. He has been with KBA since 2021 and advanced the KBA and its programs with effective marketing and operations programs. A Michigan native, King holds a B.S. in Business from Western Michigan University. More by Randall King, KBA Executive Officer
-
Kelle Kitchel-Cooper, The Content Scout
Kelle Kitchel-Cooper is the chief exploration officer (CEO) of The Content Scout. She founded The RockFish Group/RFG Creative in 2007, one of the largest and most successful branding, marketing and public relations firms in the West Sound. The Content Scout team brings unique behind-the-scene expertise to the world of content. More by Kelle Kitchel-Cooper, The Content Scout
-
Connie LaMont
An interior designer and colorist, Connie LaMont has lived in the Pacific Northwest since 1993. She holds a bachelor’s degree in arts from the University of California in Irvine and a second bachelor’s from the Interior Designers Institute in Newport Beach, Calif. Connie and her architect husband, Wayne, own LaMont Design Inc. in Poulsbo. Some of their joint projects include Austin Towers in Poulsbo and Elkhorn Place in Sequim. 360-779-7227 More by Connie LaMont
-
Millie Lindell, ED
A retired elementary school teacher and K-12 principal, Millie Lindell earned a doctorate in education administration and taught graduate classes in colleges and universities. She has been president of three different state reading associations including Washington and presented at local, state and international reading associations plus the World Congress of Reading in various places around the world. Her latest endeavor was authoring a book together with her grandchildren. “Cooking Around the World With Grandma” can be found at amazon.com. The proceeds of the book are going to the grandchildren’s college fund. More by Millie Lindell, ED
-
Abigail Lovell
Owner of Abigail’s Concierge Services in Gig Harbor, Abigail spent 16 years in the telecom industry and exited corporate America to start a niche business catering to homeowners and visitors in the area. Abigail’s passion for homes, and savvy marketing experience, make growing and running her business a natural segue to a better quality of life in quaint and bucolic Gig Harbor. As a member of AWOB-Alliance or Women Owned Business, Waterfront Alliance, and the Gig Harbor Chamber of Commerce, Abigail has created a network of partners and strong relationships within the business community and with her clientele. Writing about, and for, homeowners is what she does as a natural extension of the services she offers to the community at large. More by Abigail Lovell
-
Molly Erin McCabe, AKBD, CLIPP, CGP, CAPS
Molly Erin McCabe, an award-winning designer, writer, presenter, community volunteer and principal designer of McCabe by Design LLC (formerly A Kitchen That Works LLC), a full-service residential design firm serving Kitsap County and beyond. Her professional certifications include Associate Kitchen and Bath Designer (AKBD), Certified Living in Place Professional (CLIPP), Certified Green Professional (CGP), and Certified Aging in Place Specialist (CAPS). More by Molly Erin McCabe, AKBD, CLIPP, CGP, CAPS
-
Stephanie McCaffery
A development assistant and naturalist with Harbor WildWatch since 2013, Stephanie McCaffery enjoys inspiring stewardship of the Puget Sound through learning opportunities provided by Harbor WildWatch’s educational programs. Her excitement and passion for the environment led her to pursue a degree in environmental studies at the University of Washington. Stephanie enjoys introducing local residents to the unique animals that call Puget Sound home. More by Stephanie McCaffery
-
Patti McFerran
A garden writer and tour director from Boulder, Colorado and an Emeritus Master Gardener, she is actively involved in many local gardening organizations including the Gig Harbor Northwest Perennial Alliance, the South Sound unit of the Washington Park Arboretum Foundation, and Horsehead Bay Garden Club. She is on the Master Gardeners’ speakers list; her programs include shade and herb gardening as well as garden travelogues. She has worked with the Gig Harbor Garden Tour for 7 years and has been the garden selection chair for the last four years. She and her husband, John, retired to the Northwest in 2003 to be closer to their daughter, Molly, and their three wonderful grandchildren, Sarah, Jasper and Rosemary. More by Patti McFerran
-
Karen McGregor
A thought leader and catalyst for influencers with a powerful global message, Karen McGregor is the author of the much-anticipated book “The Tao of Influence: Ancient Wisdom for Modern Leaders and Entrepreneurs.” She has supported hundreds of thousands of entrepreneurs over the past decade to create and deliver powerful messages. An inspiring international speaker who presents across all industries, McGregor walks her talk every day, sharing her message on stage with luminaries like Tony Robbins, Deepak Chopra, John Gray, and David Wolfe. Her ideas and direct quotes have been featured on CTV News, Reader’s Digest, Breakfast Television (Toronto, Canada), Florida Weekly, and many other prominent media outlets. “The Tao of Influence: Ancient Wisdom for Modern Leaders and Entrepreneurs” will be available from major online booksellers. More by Karen McGregor
-
Melissa Michaels
The creator and author of the popular home-decorating blog The Inspired Room, Melissa Michaels has been encouraging hundreds of thousands of readers a month since 2007 with daily posts and inspiration for all things house and home. The Inspired Room was twice voted as the Better Homes and Gardens magazine Reader’s Choice decorating blog. Melissa lives with her husband, Jerry; their son, Luke; and two impossibly adorable Doodle pups, Jack and Lily, whose adventures are well loved and followed on their Facebook page. A New York Times bestselling author, Michaels offers tips, DIY ideas and photos on stress-free organizing in her new release, “Simple Organizing: 50 Ways To Clear the Clutter.” Learn more at Harvest House Publishers. More by Melissa Michaels
-
Colleen Miko, CPH
A Certified Professional Horticulturist, freelance garden writer and speaker, Colleen Miko has over 20 years of experience in landscape design, having designed award-winning gardens for the Point Defiance and NW Flower & Garden shows. Her television debut as winning designer on the HGTV show “Landscaper’s Challenge” aired in 2007. Colleen is the horticulture educator for Washington State University Kitsap Extension, where she oversees the Master Gardener Program and Rain Garden Mentor Program. More by Colleen Miko, CPH
-
Dawn F. Muench
An avid trail-runner and health enthusiast, Dawn Muench is a board-certified pediatrician and infectious disease subspecialist who earned her M.D. at the University of Mississippi School of Medicine. She completed her specialty training at Tripler Army Medical Center in Honolulu, Hawaii, and the National Capital Consortium in Washington, DC. Dawn separated from the Army in December of 2013 after more than 11 years of active duty service, including two tours in Iraq. She now works part-time at Bainbridge Pediatrics (Bainbridge Island) and Harbor Pediatrics (Gig Harbor). Dawn has a special interest in holistic health and is passionate about helping others find sustainably healthy lifestyles that include spending time in nature. She is active in her community, where she serves as a board member/coach of the Girls on the Run West Sound chapter, is active in her church and is a regular contributor to several blogs, including her own, “Cupsrunningover.” She is a proud member of the “Dirty Girls Trail Running” group based out of the Route 16 Running and Walking store in Gig Harbor. More by Dawn F. Muench
-
Melinda Myers
Melinda Myers has written more than 20 gardening books, including the recently released “Midwest Gardener’s Handbook, 2nd Edition” and “Small Space Gardening.” She hosts The Great Courses “How to Grow Anything” instant video and DVD series and the nationally syndicated Melinda’s Garden Moment radio program. Myers is a columnist and contributing editor for Birds & Blooms magazine and is commissioned by different brands for her expertise to write these articles. More by Melinda Myers
-
Angie Narus
A Kitsap Peninsula resident, Angie Narus grew up in Southwestern Pennsylvania and moved out west with her husband more than 21 years ago. She is a school counselor, author and personal blogger. Inspired by the places she visits and the people she meets, her writing focuses on sharing her knowledge of gardening and points of interest in Washington state. Angie also loves photography, hiking, kayaking, camping, visiting small towns, going to festivals and cultural events, and road trips to the coast and mountains — which makes the Pacific Northwest an ideal choice to call home. Angie also features her book and occasionally blogs on her website. More by Angie Narus
-
Melissa K. Norris
The author of “Made from Scratch Life” (Harvest House Publishers) Melissa K. Norris believes that the simple things in life are truly the best and that everything just looks better in a mason jar. Her mission is to inspire people’s faith and pioneer roots. Through her popular blog and podcast, Pioneering Today, she reaches hundreds of thousands of people, inspiring them to live their dreams, while sharing easy tips and ways to live frugal, grow it yourself and make it at home pioneer style. Melissa lives with her husband and two children in their own little house in the big woods in the foothills of the North Cascade Mountains. More by Melissa K. Norris
-
Suzanne O'Clair
Gardening in Poulsbo, Suzanne O’Clair is a freelance writer and columnist for Kitsap Week Magazine. She was an ASID interior designer for many years in Denver. She holds a master’s degree in applied communication. Semi-retired, she owns and operates O Stars Above and delights in creating beaded and embroidered jewelry. More by Suzanne O’Clair
-
Katya Pak
Katya Pak is a real estate broker with John L. Scott and lifetime resident of Washington State. After receiving her bachelor’s in journalism and geology from Western Washington University, she worked in marketing and video production. Katya loves to travel and is published in the Alaska Airlines and Horizon Air magazines. She’s also passionate about connecting with community members over their love of pets and wildlife. More by Katya Pak
-
Chris Piercy
Currently the recycling coordinator for Kitsap County’s Solid Waste Division, Chris has worked in the environmental industry for nine years. Seven of those have been in the solid waste management industry. He received his bachelor’s degree in environmental science from Western Washington University. Chris grew up on the Kitsap Peninsula and is passionate about keeping the peninsula green and preserving the natural wonders available in this wonderful area. He is an avid golfer. Chris, his wife and their three dogs enjoy spending their weekends exploring the great Northwest by land and water. 360-337-5777 More by Chris Piercy
-
Alison Pride
Alison Pride is a Washington native who grew up east of the mountains and always longed for green. She moved west the first chance she got to attend college at Seattle Pacific University, where she majored in English and edited her college newspaper. Since then she’s lived as far south as Davis, Calif., and as far east as Bozeman, Mont., where she reported for the Bozeman Daily Chronicle and first started poking through people’s houses in order to write about them. Happy to be back in Washington at last (and on the right side of the mountains), Alison lives in Gig Harbor, where she does freelance writing when she isn’t out exploring one of the area’s great beaches with her son and dog in tow. More by Alison Pride
-
Franco Ramos, Harbor WildWatch
Franco Ramos is the program coordinator at Harbor WildWatch, a nonprofit environmental education organization based in Gig Harbor. Its mission is to inspire stewardship for Puget Sound by providing learning opportunities about the environment to the people in the local community. Through more than 600 fun and interactive programs each year, Harbor WildWatch hopes to inform residents and visitors about local marine life and elicit their involvement in preserving our natural resources. More by Franco Ramos, Harbor WildWatch
-
Ann Randall
A well-traveled international election observer and independent traveler, Ann Randall spends at least two months annually venturing to out-of-the-way locales, from Azerbaijan to Zimbabwe. She has recently taken up travel sketching as a way to savor the journey in an attempt to see if pictures really do speak a thousand words. A former educator, she observes international elections and does NGO volunteer work in India. Her articles have appeared in online and print publications and she maintains two blogs. PeregrineWoman.com is about her adventures as she travels the world from festivals in Colombia, Costa Rica, Guatemala and Mexico to German Christmas markets in Canada and Easter in New Orleans. ExplorationKitsap.com covers her wanderings and wonderings about her home turf, the beautiful Kitsap Peninsula. More by Ann Randall
-
Craig Romano
Growing up in rural New Hampshire, Craig Romano fell in love with the natural world. He ranks Washington state, his home state since 1989, among the most beautiful places on the planet and he has hiked it thoroughly, over 18,000 miles worth, from Cape Flattery to Putter Butte. An award-winner author and co-author of 15 books, he writes for numerous publications, tourism agencies and Hikeoftheweek.com and is a columnist for Northwest Runner and Outdoors NW. Romano’s book “Columbia Highlands: Exploring Washington’s Last Frontier” was recognized in 2010 as a Washington Reads book for its contribution to cultural heritage. More by Craig Romano
-
Janine Schutt
A self-proclaimed “bird nerd,” Janine Schutt is an avid birder and a nationally recognized and award-winning wildlife photographer. Her photos have appeared in Cornell Lab of Ornithology publications. An expert on the birds of Washington, Janine enjoys birding in all 39 counties. She is a past president of Kitsap Audubon Society, current board member and data compiler for the annual Christmas Bird Count. Janine works for the Central Kitsap School District and is a part-time contract chaplain with the Department of Corrections. More by Janine Schutt
-
Lauren Sewell
Throughout her childhood, Lauren Sewell joined her family on day trips and weekend outings all around the Puget Sound. Whether she was watching a great blue heron scoop up a fish or following a banana slug in a wooded trail, she became enamored with the region’s natural surroundings. This interest took her to Whitman College, where studied environmental humanities and simultaneously became interested and involved in environmental nonprofit organizations. Lauren is the development associate for Harbor WildWatch, where she assists with marketing, helps manage volunteers and cultivates support. More by Lauren Sewell
-
Haley Shapley
A freelance writer and editor, Haley Shapley has written about lifestyle, travel, health, home, and more for outlets such as American Way, WeightWatchers.com, and AOL. In 2009, she blogged about the Vancouver Olympics for The Kitsap Sun. A native Bremertonian, she moved back to Washington after spending eight years away and appreciates the beauty of the area more than ever. Haley graduated from the University of Pennsylvania in Philadelphia with a bachelor’s in communication. More by Haley Shapley
-
Bethany Smith
Bethany Smith recently making Kitsap County her home, works in website design, SEO and online platform and social media management, sourcing and creating content for the past four years. She also creates marketing and ad campaigns, print and digital, for local businesses. More by Bethany Smith
-
Lee Springgate
After retiring from 22 years as Director of Parks and Community Services for the City of Bellevue, Lee Springgate founded the Point Wilson consulting group, focusing on parks, conservation and public spaces. He recently authored a book on Bellevue’s Lake to Lake Greenway and has lectured and written about a variety of park, recreation, and conservation issues. He currently resides in Port Ludlow. More by Lee Springgate
-
Jeff Stelmach
Retired in 2015, Jeff Stelmach is a self-taught baker who only since the pandemic became interested in yeast-based breads. Because of the lockdown, he has developed an interest in finding and preparing a repertoire of recipes at home after learning that some prepared dishes did not travel well from restaurant to home. He has a new found appreciation for vegetable growing, canning and understanding how ingredients combine to create memorable meals for all types of palates. The philosophy that “living to eat” as opposed to “eating to live” is an admirable quality. More by Jeff Stelmach
-
Lisa Stirrett
A Silverdale resident, Lisa Stirrett is a Pacific Northwest renowned artist who has been creating in different mediums since 1988. She began her artistic endeavors with Gyotaku, then added metal design, encaustic, and cast and fused glass. Lisa creates commissioned work for personal and commercial use, and her art can be seen in many public spaces around West Sound — including at the ferry terminal and bus transit center in Bremerton, Kitsap Conference Center and Harrison Medical Center. She creates and sells her art at Lisa Stirrett Glass Art Studio in Silverdale, where she also teaches a variety of classes. More by Lisa Stirrett
-
Darren Strenge
With a B.S. in horticulture, and an M.S. in botany, Darren Strenge is the plant health manager for the beautiful, 150-acre Bloedel Reserve garden on Bainbridge Island. He oversees irrigation, deals with pest and disease issues, and manages their compost program. He lives in north Kitsap County with his family and various animals. More by Darren Strenge
-
Margaret Sweeney
Margaret Sweeney is an avid gardener with a love for natural, practical and comfortable garden settings, favoring the Pacific Northwest style. She has a Bachelor of Science in environmental science. A Master Gardener since 2019, Margaret also has a YouTube channel, “Margaret’s Garden School,” featuring short videos of varied plant and garden interest. She has three adult children (who garden) and lives in Poulsbo with her husband. More by Margaret Sweeney
-
Lesli Dullum Taylor
Lesli Dullum Taylor is founder of Optimal Wellness Inc., dba Live Well Kitsap, a community wellbeing resource site, The Wellspring Company, and Optimal Wellness Consulting. She is a certified counselor, certified brain health coach and Gallup Strengths coach. Lesli has a private practice in holistic counseling and is the executive coach, consultant and trainer for TWC. She facilitates transformational change for businesses and CEOs. Live Well Kitsap supports businesses and offers wellbeing events in Kitsap. More by Lesli Dullum Taylor
-
Debbie Teashon
A garden writer, author, garden speaker, and award-winning photographer, Debbie Teashon’s career spans many decades. Her speaking engagements include the Northwest Flower & Garden Festival, Tacoma Home & Garden Show, and at garden clubs across the Northwest. She’s been a guest on Garden Time television show in Oregon, and radio programs such as Gardening with Ciscoe on 97.3 FM KIRO radio, and Poppy Tucker’s Louisiana Eats on NPR. Online since 1998, Teashon’s web site Rainy Side Gardeners (rainyside.com) focuses on regional gardening west of the Cascades. Her articles and photographs appear in local, national, and international magazines, and newspapers. Gardening most of her adult life, she is always on the hunt for new varieties of plant material, or creating new container designs using beautiful pottery or repurposed items. More by Debbie Teashon
-
Peg Tillery
Peg Tillery is a retired WSU Extension horticulture and water quality educator. Her columns appeared in the Kitsap Sun and Kitsap News Group. She wrote articles for WestSound Magazine for a decade and also served as garden editor. She has also produced and appeared in several gardening shows on BKAT (Bremerton Kitsap Access Television). She volunteers as a WSU Master Gardener. More by Peg Tillery
-
Rodika Tollefson
An award-winning writer who lives on the Key Peninsula with her husband and three sons. She is a contributing editor and blog manager for WSHG, and also writes for several local publications and produces videos. Her work has been published in regional and national publications; she also writes for companies and organizations. She holds a bachelor’s degree in journalism from the University of Alaska Anchorage, where she received the Outstanding Journalism Graduate of the Year award; she is also a graduate from the University of Washington’s Master of Communications in Digital Media program. (See WSH&G Contributed Videos) More by Rodika Tollefson
-
Nick Tomassi, (in memoriam)
Having made his home in the Pacific Northwest in 1950, Nick Tomassi was trained as an engineer, receiving a bachelor’s degree from the University of Portland, Oregon, and a master’s degree from the University of Southern California. He retired in Kitsap County as a civilian test engineer for the Navy in 1988. His passion for wine led to teaching wine appreciation classes in Kitsap County in 1992. In 1994, he began writing a wine and beer column for the Kitsap Sun newspaper and later wine and beer articles for Wine Press Northwest Magazine. More by Nick Tomassi, (in memoriam)
-
William I. Trandum
Retired U.S. Navy captain, Bill Trandum, is an avid boater and retired sailboat racer. He has sailed in ocean weather conditions ranging from dead calms to typhoons and is a self-described student of all things waters, winds, tides and weathers. He lives on the Key Peninsula. More by William I. Trandum
-
Chelsea Travaglio
Chelsea Travaglio is the principal interior designer for The Grey Door Design & Build, Inc., a full-service design and remodel company developed by her and her husband, Chris. Travaglio focuses on creative projects for luxury interiors from Bellevue to Port Ludlow. She is a Washington native, passionate designer and gardener, and proud mom. More by Chelsea Travaglio
-
Stena Troyer
Despite having been born and raised in rural Montana, Stena Troyer has a love for the marine world that was inspired at an early age. On trips to visit family in Washington, she became fascinated with the intertidal zone. She later received her SCUBA certification that allowed her to explore the wonder beneath the surface for the first time. Torn between following her father’s footsteps and becoming a dentist or pursuing her childhood dream of becoming a marine biologist, Stena attended Pacific Lutheran University to study biology. As a naturalist with Harbor WildWatch, Stena is thrilled to have an opportunity to share her passion for learning about and protecting the Puget Sound. More by Stena Troyer
-
Josie Emmons Turner
Josie Emmons Turner lives on a beautiful estuary feeding into Gig Harbor where an abundance of wildlife greets her. She is an avid gardener, amateur French cook, writer, poet and former Tacoma Poet Laureate. She has been an educator, has worked in the arts and has served on panels for the Washington State Arts Commission and the National Endowment for the Arts. More by Josie Emmons Turner
-
Wendy Tweten
Co-author of the how-to guide Gardening for the Homebrewer: Plants for Making Beer, Wine, Gruit, Cider, Perry, and More, Wendy Tweten’s work has been featured in many national and regional publications including Organic Gardening. In addition to speaking and covering home and garden topics she pens a humor column for the Kingston Community News. More by Wendy Tweten
-
Jim Ullrich
The president of Wild Birds Unlimited in Gig Harbor, and the current president of the Kitsap Audubon Society. He serves on the Kitsap Audubon board of directors, and was past president in 2005. He has been a guest on the radio programs of Ciscoe Morris, Ed Hume and Scott Conner. He received the “Friend to the Environment” award from Wild Birds Unlimited of Indianapolis, the “Franchisee of the Year” for Wild Birds Unlimited of Indianapolis, the Silver Beaver award from the Boy Scouts of America, the Kingfisher Award from the Kitsap Audubon Society, and the Tahoma Audubon Society Distinguished Service Award. Jim is a retired Naval officer, and holds a Master’s degree in business administration from the University of Puget Sound. 1-800-851-2575 More by Jim Ullrich
-
Richard Walker
Richard Walker is a journalist and mariner. He is the author of “Point No Point” (2019, Arcadia Publishing) and author, co-author or editor of four other books. He and his wife, Molly, share a Craftsman-style home with their black Lab, Mowita, and two cats. More by Richard Walker
-
Rebecca Warner
A home gardener in Newton, Massachusetts, Rebecca Warner has over 30 years’ experience working toward a sustainable ornamental garden. When she’s not gardening, she’s a geriatric psychiatrist. Her book, “The Sustainable-Enough Garden,” is the story of her quest to make a beautiful garden that’s environmentally friendly. In the last five years, she has overhauled her garden practices, from composting to mulching, lawn care to irrigation. She blogs weekly: More by Rebecca Warner
-
Elise Watness Maupin
A farmer with her family at The Brothers Greenhouses and the Davis Farm, Elise Watness is dedicated to connecting local producers and eaters both through farmer’ markets and online with Victory Garden Media. Elise is also a Montessori teacher and studied ethnoenvironmental journalism and Spanish at Western Washington University. She has a passion for travel to expand her worldview. In 2012, she and her husband were in Costa Rica for a three-month, cross-cultural study of agritourism and sustainable farming methods. Elise worked in restaurants to pay for school and loves to explore new ways to grow, cook and eat locally grown foods. More by Elise Watness Maupin
-
Amy Webb, Executive Director of Heron's Key
Executive director of retirement community Heron’s Key, Amy Webb holds more than 20 years of experience in senior care. Webb earned a bachelor of arts degree in education, bachelor of science degree in occupational therapy and certification in project management from the University of Washington. She is also a certified Eden Alternative Associate. She currently oversees day-to-day operations at Gig Harbor’s largest Life Plan Community in Gig Harbor, Heron’s Key. More by Amy Webb, Executive Director of Heron’s Key
-
Elena J. Williams
An American Rose Society Master Consulting Rosarian, Elena J. Williams grows 160 roses in Kitsap County. Sixty of those roses were moved from Minnesota ten years ago and are thriving better than they could have in the frozen tundra. Elena is retired from being a teacher librarian and she participates in Kitsap Rose Society and Tacoma Rose Society. More by Elena J. Williams
-
Juris Zommers, ASID
A longtime Bainbridge Island Designer, Juris Zommers first opened his firm under the name Daina Design in Seattle in 1962. He moved the business in 1974 to Bainbridge Island, where Stephanie Harris joined him in 1980. As Harris/Zommers Interiors, they have worked in all phases of residential design and specialize in window coverings and fabrics/reupholstery services. More by Juris Zommers, ASID