Vote Yes Twice - Prop 1 and 2

Few would disagree that we have it pretty good in Gig Harbor and the Key Peninsula.  Aside from the amazing waterfront, spectacular views and our caring communities we can also boast of a coveted public education system which rates one of the highest in Pierce County with the lowest tax rates; tax rates well under neighboring Tacoma and University Place Public Schools.  But this is now on the verge of collapse due to overcrowding and deteriorating structures.  Our continued growth puts an even greater strain on our schools (some of which are already over capacity), staff and teachers (already well under appreciated, but that’s a whole other topic).  This growth now requires the bussing of students to other schools that will now also feel the same growing pains.  If we cannot come together as a community to help our ageing public school system, the system we have held in honor will begin to fail with lower ratings and students trouble soon to follow.

A strong public education system is also vital for the safety and economy of our community.  As a Gig Harbor Realtor for over ten years I have found that one of the first questions out of area buyers ask is ‘How are the schools?’.  Great schools draw people, while they run from suffering and unsupported education system.  I have often heard ‘but I have no kids in school so why should I want pay more in taxes?’.  This leads to basic economy.  If people avoid buying homes in the area due to poor public education, what do you think will happen to your home value?  That answer is easy, if fewer people want to live in your neighborhood your home prices will drop . . . significantly.

Economics should not be the only driving reason to support the upcoming election.  As a community it is our responsibility to support our future scholars, ours or our neighbors.  That is what maintains a strong, safe and livable community and one we can be proud to call home.  I will vote ‘Yes’ twice on August 5^th and encourage you to do the same.

Keller Williams Wet Red Day May 8th 2014

Ok, so this year we should call it WET RED Day (Weather Endurance Test as we Renew, Energize and Donate)!  Thanks to all the brave Keller Williams brokers who didn't let a little rain slow them down, and helped make a Huge contribution to the Fish Food Bank gardens.  Your efforts and hard work are greatly appreciated.  And after all, you can only get so wet - and we did get wet!

Keller Williams Red Day 2014

I'm getting excited about Keller Williams Red Day 2014 tomorrow.  A day where our office, and other KW offices throughout the country, pretty much shut down to spend the day giving back to our wonderful communities.  Rain or shine, it’s an amazing event, it makes me feel good and is another reason I'm happy to be a Realtor with Keller Williams.  Click here to learn more about KW Red Day.

Private and Spacious in Gig Harbor

 
Set in a well-maintained, secluded neighborhood, but yet convenient to Gig Harbor shopping and highway access, this wonderful home features open and spacious living areas, large living and formal dining rooms with family room off huge kitchen with abundant counter space and cabinetry, walk-in pantry, Stainless Steel appliances, double oven, large  center island and plenty of windows to let the natural light shine in. Spacious Master bedroom features five piece bath with jetted tub, ceiling fans and office.  Two hot water tanks, ceiling fans throughout, built with 2x6 construction with 5/8 drywall plus many other upgrades make this home very energy efficient, comfortable and unlike any others.  Click here for additional information and images of this remarkable find as well as other area information, or contact me today at 253-225-5667 to schedule a visit.  You won't be disappointed.

Red Barn Youth Center Set to Open this Spring

As a resident of the Key Peninsula I’ve witness this hand painted thermometer ever so slowly inch its way up and am happy to see the progress made on the Red Barn Youth Center, bringing a safe place for kids to meet, play and learn.  I'd like to share with you a recent article published by the Peninsula Gateway on the focus and progress of this great community feature.  I'm happy to see it nearing completion.  Click here to read more about the Red Barn as published in the Peninsula Gateway. 

Communities in Schools also runs reading and math mentoring projects throughout the Peninsula School district and as a volunteer math mentor at Purdy elementary I have a deep respect for the work they do all around our community.  I can't say enough for the care they deliver and encouragement they provide to our communities young scholars.  You may not be anywhere near Gig Harbor or the Key Peninsula, but I encourage you to click here to find out more about Communities in Schools and how you can help or contribute to a chapter in your neck of the woods.

Just Another Day in a Dogs Life

Another great thing about being a Realtor is that I can work from my home office when loved ones and loved pets are ill or in recovery.  Yesterday one of our beloved Mexican Pitt-Bulls (Chihuahuas) had to have ACL surgery.   Pebbles is seen here keeping a caring and watchful eye over her brother Bam-Bam while he recovers from his surgery. Bam-Bam may not be happy about his fancy fur-cut or that annoying breeze, but he’s quite the little trooper and is doing fine and Pebbles is a great caregiver, but its a slow recovery time and I think I’ll be working from home for a few days.

Keller Wiliams Gig Harbor RED DAY 2014 - Give Where You Live

Keller Williams Red Day 2014 is quickly approaching.  On May 8^th Keller Williams Realty offices throughout the country will set work aside for the day so the agents, brokers, staff and owners can work together on a project to give back to their communities.  Click here for more info on this annual event. 

Last year the Gig Harbor Keller Williams office spent the day at Purdy Elementary clearing overgrown gardens and erecting a greenhouse where students can witness beginning horticulture by growing their own plants and vegies.  It was a great day bustling with activity and community spirit.  Click here to see what a difference a little teamwork can accomplish.

This years Red Day activity has yet to be confirmed and I need your help in finding a project.  We are looking to do more than clean a stretch of road or beach and would like to concentrate on a project where many in the community will benefit, but are not opposed to helping a community member in need.  If you have any suggestions on where we could do the most good I would love to hear from you.  In conjunction with RED Day 2014, we will also be running our annual canned food drive to benefit the area FISH food banks.  Please contact me if you would like to get involved or have questions.

Thanks for your help and keep posted for news on this amazing day and experience.