Gig Harbor - The Community Guide Sept 2009

Robin Hood Villageand RestaurantAn Enchanted VillageVisit the Quaint Town ofUnion, WA

October isBreast CancerAwareness Month

Gig HarborSeptember/October 2009

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community matters4 BreastCancer

Astoryofbreastcancersurvival,programs&more

business highlight10 RobinHoodVillage&Restaurant

ByMicheleMcGeheeAnEnchantedVillage

vacations close to home15 VisitUnion,WA

ByMicheleMcGeheeVacationrightinyourownbackyard.

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3September/October 2009 The Community Guide

C o M M u N I T y M A T T E r SCM

Breast Cancer Awareness Month (BCAM) is an annual international health campaign organized by major breast cancer charities every October to increase awareness of the

disease and to raise funds for research into its cause, prevention and cure. The campaign also offers information and support to those affected by breast cancer.

As well as providing a platform for breast cancer charities to raise awareness of their work and of the disease, BCAM is also a prime opportunity to remind women to be breast aware for early detection. In the next few pages, we highlight practitioners, organizations and one courageous woman who has survived cancer. Please celebrate with us on the advancement of healthcare and the dedication of our community to find the cure for cancer.

The American Cancer SocietyThe American Cancer Society is the

nationwide community-based voluntary health organization dedicated to eliminating cancer as a major health problem through research, education, advocacy and service.

Knowing the facts about cancer can save lives. With both prevention and early detection information, people can take an active role in how cancer affects them.

Primary cancer prevention means taking the necessary precautions to prevent the occurrence of cancer. Prevention programs are designed to help adults and children make healthy lifestyle choices that continue throughout life. The Society’s programs focus primarily on:

• tobacco control • relationship between diet and physical activity and cancer comprehensive school health education • skin cancer reduction • regular medical checkups and recommended cancer screeningsIn addition to taking proactive steps to help prevent the disease,

it’s important to know how cancer is found and what screening

Fighting AgainstBreast Cancer

4 The Community Guide September/October 2009

Frequently Asked Questions: BreAst CAnCer

Q. How many women are affected by breast cancer?An estimated 192,370 women in the United

States will be diagnosed with invasive breast cancer in 2009, and 40,170 women will die from the disease this year. Among women, breast cancer is the most frequently diagnosed non-skin cancer and the second leading cause of cancer death after lung cancer.

Q. Is breast cancer the most common cancer among women?

Breast cancer is the most frequently diagnosed cancer among women, excluding skin cancer.

Q. Can men get breast cancer?Breast cancer in men is rare, but it does occur.

An estimated 1,910 men will be diagnosed with breast cancer in 2009, and approximately 440 will die of the disease. Currently there is no technology to detect male breast cancer. The best way for a man to protect himself is to be aware of how his breasts normally look and feel and to discuss any changes with his health care provider.

Q. Who is most at risk for developing breast cancer?Several factors contribute to the risk of

developing breast cancer. Aside from being female, age is the main risk factor. As age increases, so does the risk of developing breast cancer. In fact, more than three out of four women who are diagnosed with breast cancer are 50 or older. Family history and genetics also contribute. Postmenopausal obesity and weight gain are risk factors, as are having a personal history of breast cancer, certain types of benign breast disease and several hormone-related factors.

Q. What effect does a family history of breast cancer have on a woman’s risk of getting the disease?

Women with a strong family history of early breast cancer – two or more close relatives diagnosed before age 50 – are at increased risk of developing the disease. However, the majority of women diagnosed with breast cancer have no close relatives (mother, sister or daughter) with the disease, and most women with a family history will not develop breast cancer.

Q. Why is early detection important?Numerous studies have shown that early

detection – having a yearly mammogram – saves lives and increases treatment options. The five-year survival rate for breast cancer is 98 percent among individuals whose cancer has not spread beyond the breast at time of diagnosis.. TCG

options are available and appropriate. Finding cancer in the earliest stage possible gives the patient the greatest chance of survival. For this reason, the Society seeks to provide the public and health care professionals with the latest cancer resources to help them make informed decisions. Through national conferences and workshops, audiovisual and print publications, a Web site (www.cancer.org), and the National Cancer Information Center (1-800-ACS-2345), the Society works hard to reach everyone with this lifesaving information.

In addition, American Cancer Society offers support and service programs to try to lessen the impact on patients and their families. These programs cover a wide range of needs - from connecting patients with survivors to providing a place to stay when treatment facilities are far from home.

Support our local Chapter. They make a world of difference for people struggling with cancer. TCG


The Community Guide is proud to be a sponsor of the upcoming Making Strides Against Breast Cancer walk

on October 10, 2009 in Tacoma at Wright Park.

Visit www.communityguideonline.com and sign up.If you have any questions, please contact our office at 360-350-1237

or send an email to [email protected]

Calling all walkers!Join our team!••

A Survivor’SBy Christi Hill

Can anything good come out of something as frightening as breast cancer? I say, “yes!” Though it was the scariest and most difficult thing I’ve ever been through, I’m stronger now than

I’ve ever been – physically, mentally, emotionally and spiritually. But it’s been quite a journey!

The week before Christmas in 2005, I went for my regular yearly mammogram. After an ultrasound and biopsy, I received that dreaded phone call announcing a breast cancer diagnosis. I was only 47. How could that be? I went through the entire gambit of emotions while waiting over the holidays for the doctor’s office to reopen - shock, anger, denial, fear, sadness.

I had two surgeries, a couple of brutal “chemo cocktails” and radiation Monday through Friday everyday for 6 weeks. Then, I received Herceptin™ via my port for a year, and will still be on Tamoxifen™ for 5 years. The fear of the unknown gripped me each time I started a new treatment. Would this one work? Would I have

Story


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more side effects? I often doubted that I had the inner strength to get through.

While going through chemo, I was exceedingly fatigued. I literally could barely put one foot in front of the other! The more drained of energy I felt, the more I got discouraged. My oncologist gave me an article about exercise. It talked about the research that proves exercise helps with the side effects of cancer treatments. The list was impressive. Exercise helps minimize fatigue and nausea, regain muscle strength, even helps digestive issues and depression. There is also strong evidence that exercise can decrease the chance of recurrence by 45-65% in some cancers!

But exercise when I’m exhausted? What kind of sense was that? I knew I had to try. I began feeling stronger and less exhausted. The best part was that I had a new mind set. Through the entire process I had been told what was going to happen to me next. I felt I had little input. However, with exercise I felt empowered me. I finally had control over something in my life

again. I could choose to lie in bed and focus on how rotten I felt, or I could get out of bed and start moving, knowing I would feel better. And, it worked every time! It helped me get rid of the “victim mentality” that is so counterproductive. It helped me discover an inner strength that I didn’t know I had. It gave me hope.

Exercise changed my life. So, when I was done with treatment, I quit my job and went back to school to be a personal trainer. I want to help people get healthy and lessen their chance of getting cancer, heart disease and diabetes. And I work with my fellow cancer survivors, during treatment and beyond. My desire is to empower them through exercise, education and nutrition awareness, to offer hope, and to encouarge joy for the journey. TCG

To contact Christi regarding personal trainingor group exercise classes, email her [email protected] or 253-740-8884.


The CArol MilgArdBreAST CenTer

The Carol Milgard Breast Center is a new model for mammography services in Tacoma and Pierce County, both in its physical appearance and business partnership. This state-of-the-art facility has been designed to provide outstanding care that will achieve shorter turnaround times from a woman’s screening to diagnosis. The Center has also consolidated cutting edge technology, talented staff and the expertise of specially trained radiologists into one location.

The Center offers a full suite of screening and diagnostic services including:

• Digital mammography• Breast ultrasound• Ultrasound-guided breast biopsy• Stereotactic breast biopsy• Breast MRI• MRI-guided breast biopsy• Bone density services

Part of the Carol Milgard Breast Center’s mission is to provide screening services to all women regardless of their financial state. As a result, the Carol Milgard Breast Health Society was formed. The Society embraces the spirit and legacy of Carol Milgard by reaching out to those in need throughout our community.

The Carol Milgard Breast Center is a collaboration of the Franciscan Health System, MultiCare Health System and TRA Medical Imaging. In addition to the support of the community health care leaders, a generous donation from the Gary E. Milgard Foundation made the Carol Milgard Breast Center a reality that opened on February 23rd 2009. If you would like to know more about the Carol Milgard Breast Center or the Carol Milgard Breast Health Society go to www.carolmilgardbreastcenter.org or call 253-759-2622. TCG


B u S I N E S S h I G h L I G h TBH

Robin Hood Villageand RestaurantAn Enchanting Experience

By Michele McGehee

Once upon a time, there lived a man and a woman who found each other through an iron gate. They fell in

love and rejuvenated an enchanted land like no other. Nestled in a crook of a hillside in Union, Washington, Robin Hood Village is a rare find and has beauty and magic all its own. People come from miles around to enjoy the serenity and unique atmosphere of their quaint cottages. Next door, the Robin Hood Restaurant & Pub, owned by proprietor Kerry London Meyers, keeps visitors fed with local cuisine, fine wine, microbrews and local music.

As the story goes, Suzi Strugar was living across the woods from the village. She was recovering from cancer and working at the restaurant as a server and sang acapella for birthdays and anniversaries. “I would walk on the trail in the morning with my tea and practice my singing. It was a time for me to heal and revitalize,” Suzi explains. Ned Kjeldguard heard this beautiful voice in the woods and began calling her the “Lady of the Woods.” They did meet and as all good fairytales go, they fell in love and are now engaged to be married.


Robin Hood Village and Restaurant was built in 1934 by Don Beckman, a famous Hollywood set designer. It wasn’t until 1938 when Beckman’s friends in the

film industry came up to Hood Canal to visit him did the resort get its present name. The crew had just finished the movie, Adventures of Robin Hood with Errol Flynn. It has been owned by different people over the years, but Ned, Suzi and Kerry have taken the village to a new level.

Over the last 2 years, Ned and Suzi have worked hard to improve the property. They have updated the cottages, cleaned up the property and cleared a beautiful area in the back for family reunions, weddings and events. “The property is a perfect place to get away and relax or to celebrate a special occasion. Small and large groups can rent the entire village and enjoy the wonderful food that Kerry provides without leaving the property. Couples love the romantic feel of the Village. We have worked hard to create a place where people feel at home.”

Two of the five original cottages are available plus two cottage rooms, two park model cottages and seven RV spaces with full hookups and the restaurant and pub still remain, offering patio, pub and creek side dining. Each cottage is decorated in a unique style, with furniture and decorative items that make you feel like you are at home. Quaint and intimate, many of the cottages offer fireplaces and private hot tubs. It is a perfect place to step away from life and enjoy the relaxing environment of the Hood Canal and Union.

If wedding plans are on the horizon, the Village is the perfect destination with beautiful indoor weddings in the restaurant, intimate outdoor weddings near the creek and larger weddings in the meadow. The photo opportunities are extraordinary; the vibrant earthy colors of the Pacific Northwest and the magical essence of the property create memories that will last forever.

Family Reunions are also popular at Robin Hood. The family can rent the entire village and have all the amenities to enjoy as a group. With the restaurant and pub on the premises, there is flexibility to cook in your cottage or enjoy the great food at the restaurant and pub.

In addition to weddings and family reunions, Ned, Suzi and Kerry host music and art festivals that draw people throughout the Northwest. “We have an amazing group of artists and musicians in Union and surrounding areas. We love bringing the community together to enjoy each other’s company and experience the talent in our own backyard.”

Kerry, a local for more than 25 years, has experienced many successful partnerships with Ned and Suzi. In the


past, it was affiliated with the cottages and was originally a dance hall. “Sometimes I get guests that remember dancing in the building,” proclaims Kerry. In the early 1990s, Victoria Rice set the precedence of creating the fine dining experience. Kerry worked for Victoria at the age of 15 and worked with her for 10 years, when she decided to move on and continue her education in Seattle. Later, she was called back to the enchanted land and took over of the restaurant when Victoria retired. The Nordstrom family owns the property and Kerry is very grateful for their support and friendship.

Working closely with Chef Mike Holbein, Kerry has designed an eclectic menu featuring Northwest specialties with an emphasis on fresh and organic products. Chef Mike understands how to match Robin Hood’s natural charm and ambience with beautifully plated, creative dishes. One of the best examples of Robin Hood’s focus on community and local products is in Chef Mike and Kerry’s relationship with Nick Browne, owner of High Water Farms. About 5 miles down the road, Nick has dedicated five acres of his fields to provide over 85% of the restaurant’s summer produce. Everything from spring mix greens, spinach, fresh basil, potatoes, and carrots, are served fresh from farm to plate, often being delivered by bicycle. With enthusiasm and pride, Kerry speaks of hand-selecting seeds with the help of her

chef and farmer, saying, “I now have the pleasure of seeing the vegetables we selected served on our guests’ plates.”

The restaurant truly provides the setting for any occasion—from the variety of food offered to the overall dining experience. They offer seating in our dining room for that special occasion, in the pub for a casual bite to eat, or on the patio to enjoy the fresh air. Many dishes take on a local theme, including a current favorite, stuffed squash blossoms from High Water Farms. Other favorites are fresh seafood dishes, such as Lemon Drop Prawns and halibut, as well as our legendary half-pound Robin Hood Burger.”

When you visit the Village, don’t forget to stop in at the pub. It is like walking into an old English pub, with great pub food and local microbrews. Every Wednesday, the pub is also host to the Robin Hood Acoustic Stage, the local open mic night with many avid followers and musicians. If you are musician, come join the fun! It is open to everyone.

As this fairytale story continues, it is filled with many new chapters of engagements, birthdays, rehearsal dinners, children playing, friends laughing, beach combing and champagne popping. Contact Ned, Suzi or Kerry to start your fairytale story today! They work closely together to bring each guest a very magical and memorable holiday get-a-way. TCG

“As always we had an amazing time. Romantic, rejuvenating and relaxing! Ned and Suzi and all the people here have always made our stay a great one.

Thank you for a wonderful 4 days. I am so glad that Heidi brought me here. It was the perfect place to decompress after returning from Iraq. I suspect there will be many more visits in the future.

Suzi , Ned and Kerry are amazing people that just make the definition of comfort and hospitality. This was a great place to have a wedding. “


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Vacationsclose to home

uNIoN, WABy Michele McGehee Photo By Matthew Melendez Blegen

Hood Canal’s South Shore is where you will discover the picturesque little town of Union. Located 16 miles south of Belfair on Highway 106, the small shops, gourmet

restaurants and world class lodging are open to serve you year round.

There are many places to visit that are right in our own backyard. Union, WA is such a place. Tucked away on the Hoods Canal, the town is a congregation of talented artists, business owners and residents, plus some well known celebrities that enjoy the peace and solitude of the small stretch of Paradise. Wednesday through Saturday, you will find music being played in a pub, restaurant, retreat center or café.

Located halfway between Belfair and Hoodsport on Highway 106, the drive to Union is a delight. Driving along the shoreline you can appreciate the display of homes, ranging from small cabins to large, multi-million dollar estates; the drive provides a perspective on the diversity and serenity of this unique community. What you miss by simply driving through this community are the unique treasures along the way and the people who are the essence of Union.

During the late 1800s, Union was recognized as a logging community. Many of the big time logging tycoons purchased summer homes in the area. Today, celebrities are still drawn to this little community on Hood Canal. The inventor of Elmer’s Glue, the Nordstrom family and Bill Gates are just a few well-known residents. Featuring small stores, a quaint enchanted village, a large resort, hillside retreats, museums, state parks and some of the best food around, you can spend a day or a weekend enjoying this charming community.

It is easy to plan a day, weekend or week-long vacation without spending much money on fuel or precious vacation time. Whether you enjoy hiking, biking, camping, climbing, boating, golf, hunting, fishing, scuba diving or attending art and music festivals or cultural events, Union has it all and, best of all, it is in our own backyard. Surrounded by the Olympic Mountains, Hood Canal and Puget Sound, the activities and adventures are endless.

With Hood Canal just seconds away, those who enjoy being on the water can bring their boats and kayaks along. The crabbing, fishing and shrimping are fantastic! If arriving by boat, a small marina is available for overnight stays. If you are more


of a mountain person, you can use Union as the launching point to enjoy the bucolic beauty of the area. The Olympic Mountains and the Olympic National Forest is a short step away where you can spend the glorious fall days hiking and exploring some of the most remote areas of our region.

For such a small community, Union has accommodations to suit most travelers. In the center of Union, Robin Hood Village is an enchanted property. The story goes that the original cottages were built in 1938 by the set designer for the movie, The Adventures of Robin Hood. Only two of the original cottages remain, but the current owners, Ned Kjeldguard and Suzi Strugar have created a magical setting for weekend retreats, family reunions and intimate weddings. With cottages and RV space, a weary traveler can find a welcoming place with good food, good service and superior accommodations.

On the premises, Robin Hood Restaurant and Pub, owned by proprietor Kerry London Meyers, offers a unique dining experience. In conjunction with Kerry’s vision, Chef Mike Holbein creates appetizing meals using fresh ingredients from the northwest. Their produce is grown at High Water Farms, 5 miles down the road, and delivered fresh daily. They work diligently to assure the freshest ingredients and to provide an atmosphere of casual elegance. They work together with Ned and Suzi to plan and organize weddings, family reunions and special events. Don’t miss the open mic night at the pub on Wednesday nights.

The Bend on Hood Canal is a private 7-bedroom luxurious getaway. With a 270 degree unobstructed view of Hood Canal,

you will not be disappointed. From the radiant granite floors to the expansive cathedral ceilings, they have the perfect size accommodations for a couple or your entire family!

Located in the center of Union, Cameo Boutique and Wine Shop was nominated as best women’s boutique in western Washington. With a variety of home décor and women’s clothing, it is a treat to go in and find a treasure for your home. Attached is a wonderful wine shop, with a select variety of wines. They also hold wine tasting for local wineries. Buy a bottle and enjoy it back at your room while you view the spectacular sunset!

If you are looking for a home to rent, Hood Canal Vacation Rentals will find the right fit for your family. Houses are located


throughout the Hood Canal area and range in size and price.

Union is also home to a superb healing and retreat center. Harmony Hill Retreat Center is perched on top of a hill overlooking the water. As a vision of Gretchen Schodde, a nurse practioner, Harmony Hill is the only retreat center dedicated to providing life-giving retreats for people with cancer and their caregivers. The grounds are made up of rustic lodgings, a spacious Great Hall, stone fireplaces, extensive gardens and walking labyrinths, and spectacular views of the Olympics. The facilities are also available for company retreats and family reunions. Available for both single-day and overnight events, the facilities include fireside meeting spaces, healthy gourmet vegetarian meals prepared by their kitchen staff and use of their gardens, grounds and labyrinths.

Anna’s Bay Center for Music is a true gift in this community. Part community music school, part performing arts organization, they provide classical music education to under-served rural areas. They offer performances throughout the year. When you plan your trip, be sure to check their schedule. It is a delightful experience.

Don’t forget to visit Hunter Farms to find the perfect pumpkin, locally harvested meal, and overnight get-away. Wristbands are furnished for activities, which include; tractor rides to and from the pumpkin patch, the hay and corn mazes and animal viewing. Hunter Farms grows many varieties of pumpkins ranging from the small Jack-be-Littles, to the sweet Sugar and Pie, to medium and large Jack-o-lanterns, to the GIANTS. They even have white pumpkins. There is also

hay, straw, corn stalk, gourds and winter squash for all your decorating needs.

If you are into gaming, the Lucky Dog Casino is only a few miles away. The latest games are featured at the Casino. They have 200+ of the most sought after titles. The Casino offers some of the highest payouts in the State. They are recognized for their friendly and helpful attitude. They treat their regulars like family, and welcome first time visitors as honored guests. You will have to stop by to believe it. You may also wish to visit Little Creek Casino, which is a little further away. Little Creek provides a full gaming arena, world-class food and top performers from all over the country.

Take some time and enjoy the unique places right in our own backyard. Union has so much to offer and is a gateway to the Olympic National Park, Hood Canal and the Olympia Peninsula. TCG


SEpTEMBEr/oCToBEr EvENTS09THEARTS

Gig Harbor Peninsula Open Studio Tour ~ September 19, 2009 - September 20, 2009, 10am - 5pm. Studios in Gig Har-bor, Fox Island and Key Peninsula. Admission is Free. www.gigharboropenstudiotour.org, 253-573-2858

South Sound Wedding Show- Tacoma ~ September 26, 2009, 11am-5pm. The Greater Tacoma Convention and Trade Center 1500 Broadway Ave Tacoma Third Floor Ballroom Admission is FREE. A wedding and fashion show (Saturday only) for the South Sound! www.weddingandeventmagazine.com

Puyallup Main Street Association Art and Wine Walk ~ October 3, 2009, 3pm-7pm. Puyallup Main Street. Phone: 253-840-2631. Go to puyallupmainstreet.com for updated details.

Fort Nisqually’s Magical Candlelight Tour ~ October 2, 2009 - October 3, 2009, 7-9:30pm. 5400 N. Pearl St., # 11, Tacoma, Wa. Phone: 253-591-5339. (253) 591-5339 or [email protected].

Come Decorate Fabulously With Us! ~ October 10, 2009, 9:00am - 4:00pm. Puyallup/Sumner Chamber of Commerce.

Admission is $295 (Pre-Registration Required). 253-720-7635, www.TheDecoratingGirls.com.

Mount Rainier Fee Free Day ~ September 26, 2009, All Day. Mount Rainier National Park, WA. Admission is FREE. Come out to Mount Rainier this year on National Public Lands Day and enter the park free of charge! http://www.nps.gov/mora

Selden Edwards author of The Little Book ~ September 29, 2009, 7:00 PM. 1102 Tacoma Aveune South, Main Library. Admission is free. Phone: 253 591 5666, www.tacomapublicli-brary.org

Dugan Foundation Presents Fur Ball™ 2009 ~ October 3, 2009, 5:30pm. The Landmark Convention Center’s, Temple Theater, 47 St. Helens Ave, Tacoma, Washington. Phone: (253) 572-7700, www.duganfoundation.org/.

Fall Leaves Trains ~ October 3, 2009. Departures: 10:30am, 2:30pm. Mt Rainier Scenic Railroad. (360) 492-5588, (888) STEAM-11. General (13-61): $20, Senior (62+) $18, Military $18, Youth (4-12) $15 Child (3 and under) Free.

FAMIly&FUN


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Gig Harbor - The Community Guide Sept 2009

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