This Week in the Harbor

September 26, 2023

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• Membership Luncheon

• News & Opportunities

• Chamber Calendar

• What's Happening in the Harbor?

• Sponsorship

Congrats to Tides Tavern on 50 years!


Locals raised their glasses in a toast to a half-century of maritime history, delicious food, and cherished memories at Tides Tavern last week! The iconic waterfront gem marked its 50th anniversary. For five decades, Tides Tavern has been a beloved establishment, serving up mouthwatering food, stunning views of the harbor, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere that feels like home. The Chamber wishes Tides Tavern many more years of success!

Welcome New Members!

Derek Kilmer serves as the United States Representative of Washington’s 6th Congressional District.


With over a decade of experience working in economic development in the Puget Sound region, Derek is focused on getting our economy and our Congress back to work. Derek has a strong record as a problem solver for Washington families and he's been recognized by veterans organizations for his support of our troops, their families, and those who have served.

More Info

Commencement Bank is committed to providing premier service to Pierce, South King, and Thurston counties, with a focus on traditional banking for businesses and individuals.


Commencement Bank wanted to be a solutions-focused bank, the kind of partner you can trust to provide you with reliable guidance and products that fit you uniquely.

More Info

News & Opportunities

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Washington's job market softens; manufacturing employment still growing.


The Employment Department of Washington State is reporting a cooling economy as Washington's employers added a total of 2,900 jobs in August, barely a fifth of the hiring a year ago. Economists continue to debate whether the cooling job market will lead to a "soft-landing" or mild recession. Manufacturing is one of seven major industry sectors that gained jobs in August, while employment across six other sectors declined, the report said. "Manufacturing employment rose by 2,800, led by 500 jobs gained in transportation equipment manufacturing," the department wrote. That's up from the monthly increase of 1,000 jobs in August 2022. Washington manufacturers added 4,900 jobs over the year, about a 2% increase in employment, the state's data shows.

TIW Master Plan Project Postponed


Due to funding availability, the obstruction/tree removal and fencing portions of the Tacoma Narrows Airport Master Plan project has been postponed.


The scope of the projects remains unchanged. The first phase of the obstruction/tree removal includes 33 individual trees and 12.5 acres of clearing and grubbing. In accordance with the Environmental Assessment for this project, the tree removal work needs to take place outside of the streaked horned lark breeding/nesting period, which is between March 15 and Sept. 1.


The fencing portion of the project will add approximately 7,000 feet of wildlife fencing. This will help keep wildlife off the runway at the airport. The project was originally slated to begin this fall. We hope to have the latest information and a timeline update to the community in spring 2024.



Learn more about the project at PierceCountyWa.gov/TIWPlan

Advertise in the Profile Magazine/ Visitor Information and Relocation Guide! Contact Janet Steiner at [email protected] to purchase an ad now!

Chamber Calendar

September

28

We invite you to attend in person, but if you wish to join us online via Zoom please register in advance to get a link.

Click Here For Free Registration

October

5

Membership Luncheon | Annual Meeting


Join the Gig Harbor Chamber of Commerce for our Monthly Membership Luncheon featuring the Annual Meeting and Board Installment.

Click Here To Register

October

5

Click Here To Register

Join our weekly Public Affairs Forum! This week we will be at a new location, and registration is required to attend. No Zoom option for this meeting will be available as this meeting is in-person only. Latitude 47 will be catering, so RSVPs are appreciated.

October

10

Join us for a Business After Hours event for an informative talk about The Harbor Hill Environmental Sanctuary with speaker Bill Lewallen. Join us for this Octoberfest-themed event!

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What's Happening in the Harbor?

September

30

Touch a Truck


Port of Tacoma invites you to bring the whole family to the annual Touch-A-Truck event September 30, 2023 from 10-2pm!

October

7

PenMet Parks, Scarecrow Festival


Presented by Schulte & Co, The Neighborhood Experts, this event is a Fall tradition, featuring a full day of family FUN for everybody.


  • Hay rides and petting zoo provided by Miracle Ranch
  • Pumpkin carving demos
  • Pumpkin launcher
  • Music from the Shy Boys
  • Food trucks
  • Local Makers market
  • Bounce house, inflatable carnival games, and more!


Please bring non-perishable food or personal care items to donate through the Kiwanis Club of Gig Harbor to the Peninsula FISH Food Bank.

October

14

Registrations Now Open for the 2023 Narrows Challenge in Gig Harbor


The excitement is building as registrations open for the highly anticipated 2023 Narrows Challenge, hosted by the Gig Harbor Canoe and Kayak Racing Team. Scheduled for Saturday, October 14, 2023, this premier water sports event promises a day of challenging competition and community spirit against the backdrop of Gig Harbor and the Narrows Passage. Learn more and register now using this link: https://narrowschallenge.com

October

14

Gig Harbor Macaroni Kid Trunk or Treat



It's going to be a SPOOKTACULAR time at the Gig Harbor Macaroni Kid Trunk or Treat event! 🚗🎃Gather your little ghouls and goblins, and head to Gig Harbor High School for a night of fun, candy, and costume magic. $2 Donation per child is greatly appreciated!

October

20

Fall Family Night!



Enjoy activities and crafts as well as some spooky tales!

October

29

Rattle Dem Bones Halloween Bike Ride and Costume Contest.



Come join in for a bike ride and costume contest! Proceeds go towards The Greater Gig Harbor Foundation's Community Recreation Fund.

October

31

Trick or Treat in the Harbor



Bring your little monsters and superheroes to trick or treat along the waterfront!

November

11

6th Annual Veterans Day Celebration

To feature your upcoming event in our newsletter, please send any marketing material and event details before 10:00 a.m. on Mondays to Katie Johnson, at [email protected]. Thank you.

Office Hours

The Chamber office will now be open on weekends!

Saturday 9:00am-4:00pm

Sunday 9:00am-4:00pm


Sponsorship

BENEFITS OF SPONSORSHIP

Maximize your company’s exposure through sponsorships

Just as membership is not a one size fits all, our sponsorship opportunities offer you a choice for your engagement. 


Sponsoring events and programs gives your company:

·   Publicity and brand recognition you need in a positive and receptive environment

·   A unique form of advertising

·   Access to new business relationships

Click Here to Learn More>>

Thank you to our Corporate Sponsors

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