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 WestSound Magazine each issue — subscribe to the print version to see all of what we have to offer!

Harmony Hill Retreat Center

Harmony Hill Retreat Center — 30 Years Young

Recalling the past, looking to the future

On a sunny day, the walk leading to Harmony Hill Retreat Center’s Great Hall offers an expansive view of Hood Canal, framed by the Olympic Mountain range. Standing before that vista, it’s easy to fill one’s twin cups of humility and inspiration while … read more

Gig Harbor Summer Art Festival

Gig Harbor Summer Art Festival — Growing into a Regional Destination

The strains of music waft on the gentle breeze in mid-July as thousands of visitors stroll down Judson Street in Gig Harbor to peruse the high-quality offerings of professional artists and artisans who participate in the Gig Harbor Summer Art Festival. Now in … read more

Volunteers in Bremerton packing the backpacks
Because it Takes a Village...

Grass-Roots Community Efforts Make Sure No Child Goes Hungry

Every week during the school year, dozens of volunteers are working in small teams to sort, pack and make food deliveries throughout West Sound. They do it on different days and as part of different organizations, but these small volunteer armies have one … read more

Japanese American Exclusion Memorial

The Bainbridge Island Japanese American Exclusion Memorial

Located on Bainbridge Island, not far from Winslow Way downtown, is a memorial site that reminds us of a dark day in American history and also honors those who endured years of suffering. The site is called the Bainbridge Island Japanese American Exclusion … read more

Kountry Korners Krazy Kreatures Art
Art in Public Places

Kountry Korners Krazy Kreatures

You can’t get to Kingston without passing the trolls! Folks from around the area aren’t certain about the history, but it is believed Mickey Whitbeck, who once owned the Kountry Korners store, recruited a carver from Forks. Whitbeck set him up next to … read more

David Shurick — Detective, Poulsbo Police Department

Unsung Hero — David Shurick

David Shurick, a Poulsbo Police Department officer for 15 years, is credited with the launch of Kitsap County’s Crisis Intervention Team (CIT). The team, which today has 33 crisis intervention officers, receives special training to help minimize the use of force in crisis … read more

Herron Hill Goat Dairy

Herron Hill Dairy — Goats, Cheese and Family Fun

The wooden sign on the side of Herron Hill Road — “Chevre” — points toward a meandering drive that disappears over the top of a low hill. Horses graze placidly in a pasture on one side of the drive, paying no mind to … read more

Spirit House Design

Art with a Spirit

Gig Harbor artist's unique 'dwellings' create synergy between...

The first thing that jumps at you when you see Susie “Sooz” Mansueto’s tiny wood dwellings is the whimsy — bright, lovely designs that instantly put a smile on your face. But pause to study them, and you realize there’s something much deeper … read more

Darrol and Judy Gover — Living and Loving Art Fully
Darrol and Judy Gover

Living and Loving Art Fully

Entering the home of Darrol and Judy Gover, one is struck immediately with the sense that this is where creativity lives, energy thrives, and not a moment of time is to be lost. Darrol, at 82, has a dozen projects going at once. … read more

Pony Up Rescue for Equines
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