Episode 11 has Mayor Markley learning all about Food Backpacks 4 Kids, a local organization working to provide the nutritional needs of children and families when other resources aren't available. Board President Jennifer Sievers and Director of Communications Michelle Johnson chat with the mayor about the much-needed programs and services they provide to local residents, including the summer lunch program, Lunch in the Park! They also dive into some sobering data from their 2022-23 outreach efforts and explain how their organization directly impacts the City of Gig Harbor. Check out their website below to learn more about the services they offer and how you can get involved. The mayor also welcomes Windy Payne, owner of For the Love of Spice. This local treasure carries 70+ spice blends, olive oil sourced from Spain, and barrel-aged vinegar from Italy. Have dietary restrictions? Get a custom-made spice blend that fits all your needs. Stop by, check out their selection of products, and enrich your senses! Special Guest: Food Backpacks 4 Kids 9127 154th Ave Ct NW (253) 857-7401 www.foodbackpacks4kids.org List of Programs: www.foodbackpacks4kids.org/programs Donate: www.paypal.com/donate/?hosted_button_id=E55ETZ8FFVFLJ How to Help: www.foodbackpacks4kids.org/how-to-help Facebook: www.facebook.com/foodbackpacks4kids Instagram: www.instagram.com/foodbackpacks4kids Local Business Spotlight: For the Love of Spice 3122 Harborview Drive (253) 858-0272 www.loveofspice.com Facebook: www.facebook.com/loveofspices Email: windy.p@gmail.com For more information on what's happening in Gig Harbor visit us at: Cityofgigharbor.net Visitgigharborwa.gov Facebook.com/cityofgigharbor *This episode was recorded on July 17, 2023

In this episode, Mayor Markley sits down with Ketty Lane and Heide Solandros of Peninsula Art League (PAL). PAL is a not-for-profit organization whose tagline and mission is to "Bring Community to the Artist and Art to the Community". Their Summer Art Festival here in Gig Harbor, now in its 37th year and organized entirely through volunteer members, does just that. This annual fundraiser provides $12,000 in scholarship funds for local high school students, as well as public art shows, workshops, and other creative activities that encourage and promote the arts, adds to our community’s quality of life, and brings tourism dollars to Gig Harbor! Members include painters, printers, sculptors, photographers, potters, jewelry designers, glass and enameling artists, fiber artists, writers – and people who simply love art.   A message from PAL: “We are grateful to the City of Gig Harbor and to Timberland Bank for their continued financial support of this event as well as our new sponsors this year.”   The mayor also chats with Allyson Howard, owner of Invitation Bookshop. This local, woman-run bookshop was founded on three core beliefs: the dignity of all people, thriving small businesses are essential to a healthy community, and that literacy is a human right, a key component of equity, and a fundamental part of being an engaged citizen. In addition to selling a curated selection of fiction, nonfiction, and other genres - they have puzzles, stationary, and more!   Special Guests: Peninsula Art League – Ketty Lane and Heide Solandros Website: https://peninsulaartleague.org/ Summer Art Festival: https://peninsulaartleague.org/summer-art-festival-2/ PAL Newsletter: https://peninsulaartleague.org/newsletters/ Facebook: www.facebook.com/peninsulaartleague Local Business Spotlight: Invitation Bookshop – Allyson Howard, owner 5125 Olympic Dr #104, Gig Harbor (253) 432-4566 Website: https://invitationbookshop.com/ Email: hello@invitationbookshop.com Facebook: www.facebook.com/invitationbookshop/ Instagram: www.instagram.com/invitationbookshop/   For more information on what's happening in Gig Harbor visit us at: Cityofgigharbor.net Visitgigharborwa.gov Facebook.com/cityofgigharbor   *This episode was recorded on July 3, 2023

In episode 13, Mayor Markley welcomes City of Gig Harbor Principal Planner Robin Bolster-Grant. The two discuss the City’s Comprehensive Plan and the current efforts underway to update the plan, as well as past and upcoming community outreach events. The mayor also sits down with Max Collinge of Effortless Junk Removal. This local company helps consumers, real estate agents, contractors, and property managers remove the junk, debris, and stress from their lives!   Special Guest: Robin Bolster-Grant, Principal Planner City of Gig Harbor - Community Development 253-853-7615 rbolster-grant@gigharborwa.gov Comp Plan Information: https://www.cityofgigharbor.net/785/2044-Comprehensive-Plan-Update   Local Business Spotlight: Effortless Junk Removal https://www.effortlessjunkremoval.com/ 253-290-7721 max@effortlessjunkremoval.com   If you have questions about City business or current issues that you would like the mayor to address in a future episode, or if you would like to suggest a local business to spotlight, please send your suggestions to communications@gigharborwa.gov. For more information on what's happening in Gig Harbor visit us at: Cityofgigharbor.net Visitgigharborwa.gov Facebook.com/cityofgigharbor   *This episode was recorded on June 5, 2023

In episode 12, Mayor Markley takes the Gig-A-Byte on-location to kick off Memorial Day weekend! She’s joined on beautiful Puget Sound by Officer Chet Dennis of the Gig Harbor Police Department. Officer Dennis gives us tips on water safety and etiquette and discusses the city’s Go With The Flow program and its Marine Services Unit. The mayor is also welcomed aboard the beautiful vessel of Captain Tony and First Mate Erin of On Time Tours & Charters/Puget Sound Sea Memorials. This unique local business offers guided tours and custom charters, as well as sea memorials. Special Guest: Officer Chet Dennis, Gig Harbor Police Department Go With the Flow: https://www.cityofgigharbor.net/683/Go-With-The-Flow Marine Services Unit: https://www.cityofgigharbor.net/573/Specialty-Units Vessel Safety Check Program: https://www.cgaux.org/vsc/ Local Business Spotlight: On Time Tours & Charters/Puget Sound Sea Memorials (253) 226-5928 www.ontimetoursgh.com anthony@ontimetoursandcharters.com anthony@pugetsoundseamemorials.com facebook.com/ontimetoursandcharters instagram.com/ontimetoursandcharters   If you have an idea for a future discussion topic or have a local business you would like to see in the spotlight, please send your suggestions to communications@gigharborwa.gov.   For more information on what's happening in Gig Harbor visit us at: Cityofgigharbor.net Visitgigharborwa.gov Facebook.com/cityofgigharbor *This episode was recorded on May 15, 2023

In episode 11 of the Gig-A-Byte, Mayor Markley welcomes Pam Leazer, the very first Executive Director for the Gig Harbor Peninsula FISH Food Bank. The two discuss FISH’s many community services and their goal of providing food and assistance with dignity, compassion, and encouragement. The mayor also sits down with Nate Graves, President of In-Gear Media – a local full service creative and digital marketing agency. We’re so excited to shine a spotlight each week on one of our local businesses! Special Guest: Pam Leazer, Executive Director Gig Harbor Peninsula FISH Food Bank 4303 Burnham Drive 253-858-6179 www.ghpfish.org Gig Harbor Food Project: www.gigharborfoodproject.com facebook.com/GigHarborPeninsulaFISH instagram.com/ghpfish Local Business Spotlight: Nate Graves, President In-Gear Media 6626 Wagner Way NW #100 253-242-2414 www.in-gearmedia.com facebook.com/ingearmediamarketing instagram.com/in_gearmedia   If you have an idea for a future discussion topic or have a local business you would like to see in the spotlight, please send your suggestions to communications@gigharborwa.gov. For more information on what's happening in Gig Harbor visit us at: Cityofgigharbor.net Visitgigharborwa.gov Facebook.com/cityofgigharbor *This episode was recorded on May 1, 2023

In this latest episode of the Gig-A-Byte, Mayor Markley sits down with Olga Inglebritson, Dean of Tacoma Community College – Gig Harbor Campus. The two discuss all the incredible programs available to new and returning students, as well as some exciting upcoming events. Mayor Markley also sits down with Diane Miller, owner of Treasures 4 Humanity, a local women’s fashion boutique with a charitable mission. We’re so excited to shine a spotlight each week on one of our local businesses! Special Guest: Olga Inglebritson, Dean TCC – Gig Harbor 3993 Hunt Street (253) 460-2424 Facebook.com/tacomacc Twitter.com/tacomacc   Local Business Spotlight: Treasures 4 Humanity 7811 Pioneer Way (253) 649-0161 Diane@treasures4humanity.com Facebook.com/treasures4humanity Instagram.com/treasures4humanity If you have an idea for a future discussion topic or have a local business you would like to see in the spotlight, please send your suggestions to communications@gigharborwa.gov. For more information on what's happening in Gig Harbor visit us at: Cityofgigharbor.net Visitgigharborwa.gov Facebook.com/cityofgigharbor   *This episode was recorded on April 17, 2023

In this episode of the Gig-A-Byte, Mayor Markley sits down with Peninsula School District Superintendent Krestin Bahr. The two discuss the PSD 5-Year Strategic Plan and their goals and mission of supporting children in our community. Mayor Markley also sits down with Annie Butcher, new owner of Snuffin’s Catering, to learn all about this award-winning business. We’re so excited to shine a spotlight each week on one of our local businesses!   Special Guest: Krestin Bahr, Superintendent Peninsula School District 14015 62nd Ave NW 253-530-1000 www.psd401.net info@psd401.net Facebook.com/psd401 Twitter: @psd401   Local Business Spotlight: Snuffin’s Catering 6745 Kimball Drive 253-851-2900 www.snuffins.com info@snuffins.com Facebook.com/snuffins Twitter: @snuffins_cater If you have an idea for a future discussion topic or have a local business you would like to see in the spotlight, please send your suggestions to communications@gigharborwa.gov. For more information on what's happening in Gig Harbor visit us at: cityofgigharbor.net visitgigharborwa.gov Facebook.com/cityofgigharbor *This episode was recorded on April 3, 2023

In this latest episode, Mayor Markley sits down with Jason Gauthier, South Sound Housing Affordability Partners (SSHA3P) Manager. The two discuss the mission of SSHA3P to create and preserve affordable housing in our communities. Mayor Markley also sits down with Dave Montoure, co-owner of KettleFish, to chat about their delicious food and unique cooking style. We’re so excited to shine a spotlight each week on one of our local businesses! Special Guest: Jason Gauthier, South Sound Housing Affordability Partners (SSHA3P) 3602 Pacific Ave Ste 200 (253) 798-4400 Jason.Gauthier@piercecountywa.gov southsoundaffordablehousing.org Local Business Spotlight: KettleFish 7806 Pioneer Way Gig Harbor, WA 98335 (253) 642-0700 contact@kettlefish.com Facebook.com/kettlefishrestaurant Instagram.com/kettlefishrestaurant Twitter.com/kettlefishnw If you have an idea for a future discussion topic or have a local business you would like to see in the spotlight, please send your suggestions to communications@gigharborwa.gov. For more information on what's happening in Gig Harbor visit us at: cityofgigharbor.net visitgigharborwa.gov Facebook.com/cityofgigharbor *This episode was recorded on March 20, 2023

In this episode, Mayor Markley welcomes new Gig Harbor Downtown Waterfront Alliance Executive Director Carrianne Ekberg. The two chat about all the important work the Alliance does on behalf of the Gig Harbor community and discuss some fun upcoming events! Mayor Markley also sits down with Don Rees, owner of RealCraft - the makers of real, handcrafted wooden doors. We’re so excited to shine a spotlight each week on one of our local businesses! Special Guest:  Carrianne Ekberg, Executive Director Gig Harbor Downtown Waterfront Alliance 3311 Harborview Dr., Suite 101a (253) 514-0071 www.gigharborwaterfront.org info@ghhwa.org Facebook.com/downtownwaterfrontalliance Instagram.com/gigwaterfront Local Business Spotlight: RealCraft 9803 44thAvenue (253) 338-8619 www.realcraft.com Facebook.com/ realcraftusa Instagram.com/realcraftusa If you have an idea for a future discussion topic or have a local business you would like to see in the spotlight, please send your suggestions to communications@gigharborwa.gov. For more information on what's happening in Gig Harbor visit us at: cityofgigharbor.net visitgigharborwa.gov Facebook.com/cityofgigharbor *This episode was recorded on March 6, 2023

This episode features a discussion with Gig Harbor Chamber of Commerce President & CEO Miriam Battson regarding the growing partnership between the City and Chamber, as well as some fun upcoming events and a special announcement! Mayor Markley also sits down with Charlie Youngchild of Lost Star Tabletop Gaming Outfitter. We're so excited to shine a spotlight each week on one of our local businesses! Special Guest: Miriam Battson, Chamber President & CEO 3125 Judson Street (253) 851-6865 www.gigharborchamber.net info@gigharborchamber.com Facebook.com/gigharborchamberofcommerce Local Business Spotlight: Lost Star Tabletop Gaming Outfitter 3106 Harborview Dr (253) 858-0171 www.loststargaming.com Facebook.com/loststargames Instagram.com/loststar.gaming If you have an idea for a future discussion topic or have a local business you would like to see in the spotlight, please send your suggestions to communications@gigharborwa.gov. For more information on what's happening in Gig Harbor visit us at: cityofgigharbor.net visitgigharborwa.gov Facebook.com/cityofgigharbor *This episode was recorded on February 21, 2023

Tune in to listen and watch Mayor Tracie Markley talk with Gig Harbor Police Chief Kelly Busey and Brittany Erwin, owner of B's Bagels and Butters. Learn more about the City of Gig Harbor by tuning in twice a month to our Gig-A-Byte podcast.

Mayor Tracie Markley interviews BBQ2U owner Gary Parker on why community involvement is so important. Parker provides ideas and opportunities for local businesses to engage their audiences and become ingrained in the community.

Mayor Tracie Markley welcomes City of Gig Harbor Public Works Director Jeff Langhelm & Communications & Tourism Director Laura Pettitt on to clear up some misconceptions about the Gig Harbor Sports Complex project. We also hear an update from CEO of YMCA of Pierce and Kitsap Counties, Charlie Davis on the Y's partnership with the City on the Sports Complex Phase 1A design and construction.

In this episode, Mayor Markley talks about a presentation from the Gig Harbor Senior Center, new GHPD hybrid patrol cars, the Gig Harbor Canoe & Kayak Racing Team's big win at the 2022 ACA Sprint National championship, what's up with the foam sightings in the harbor, and recaps October events -- from the range of Gig Harbor breweries to visit during Oktoberfest, Halloween in the Harbor and more...

Mayor Tracie Markley welcomes listeners to the first episode of the City of Gig Harbor podcast, The Gigabyte! In this episode, we cover the Mayor's Gig Harbor roots, her vision for the City, the 2022 employee engagement survey and Council retreat, land conservation, the upcoming City priorities for the 2023 Legislative Session, new functionality for CityofGigHarbor.net, and upcoming events.