My New Blog

Have you seen this powerful message?

212º the extra degree is one of the most moving & inspiring short videos I have ever seen and short book I have ever read.  If you are not familiar, its intention is to inspire the extra level of effort that produces exponential results.    

click image to watch movie.

What is it?

At 211º water is hot.

At 212º it boils and with boiling water comes steam and steam can power a locomotive.  It's that one extra degree that makes all the difference. 

Enjoy the movie. If you are interested in the book, click here.  I have found these to make a great gift. If you like it, share it.

Today, while driving around, I noticed gas prices in Tacoma, WA (Pierce County) under $4 per gallon. That's a first in a long time.

Check the lowest gas prices easily and conveniently near you using the tool below. Just enter your zip.

I don't know how long we will see these prices, but I appreciate it. Who doesn't appreciate seeing gas prices subside a bit? I am leaving for a camping trip to Potholes State Park, WA, and my wallet will be thankful when I need to fuel up the truck and boat.

Have a great weekend!

The Trey Affolter Team always welcomes comments and questions regarding Real Estate in and around Tacoma, WA.

Get Motivated! Business Seminar Seattle   - Zig Ziglar     Mark the date!   I have attended this seminar when offered in the area several times over 10 years. I always walk away with valuable information and effective business tips. I have heard speakers like Peter Lowe, Dick Vitale, Goldie Hawn, so many others, and of course Zig Ziglar himself. For those who have had the experience to listen to Zig, you know that he is more than worth the ticket alone.   For more detailed information visit Get Motivated!             Monday, August 25, 2008 KeyArena     8:00 AM - 4:45 PM       What you will come away with:

- How To Get Everything You Want - How Zig Learned Discipline - How to Harness the Power of Encouragement - Relationships Secrets that are Vital to Your Success - How to Change Your Life with an Attitude of Gratitude - Keys to Setting and Achieving Your Goals

The Trey Affolter Team always welcomes comments and is available for questions about Real Estate in and around Tacoma, WA.

I hope you enjoy!

Tacoma & Pierce County WA Weekend Activities

for July 25th - 27th, 2008

Weekend calandar & happenings in & around Tacoma & Pierce County, WA

July 25, 2008

Cinema Gig! Outdoors – A League of Their Own

Times: Dusk

Location: Donkey Creek Park, Gig Harbor, WA

Admission: Free

http://www.gigharborguide.com

Fort Nisqually Family Fun Night

Times: 6pm – 9pm

Location: Fort Nisqually Living History Museum

Admission: $4/Adults, $3/Students & Seniors, $2/Children, $12/Family

http://www.metroparkstacoma.org/events.php?id=8313

Family Fun Night – Stewart Heights Pool

Times: 5:30pm – 7:30pm

Location: Stewart Heights Pool, Tacoma

Admissions: $12 per family of four (up to two adults). Additional admissions: $5 adults/$4 youth

http://www.metroparkstacoma.org/page.php?id=70

Music Off Main Street Concert Series - Fridays

Times: 6:30pm

Location Heritage Park, Sumner

Admission: Free

http://www.ci.sumner.wa.us

Summer Youth Book Group

Times: 1:30 – 3pm

Location: Pacific Lutheran University, Garfield Book Co., Parkland

Admission: Free

http://www.plu.edu

July 26, 2008

A Terrarium Garden For You

Times: 11am

Location: Windmill Nursery & Florists

5823 160^th Ave E, Sumner, WA

Admission: $15

http://www.windmillgarden.com

Cinema Gig! Outdoors – Happy Feet

Times: 8:45pm

Location: Skansie Brothers Park, 3207 Harborview Dr. Gig Harbor, WA

Admission: Free

Cruise the Narrows Car Show

Times: 9am – 3pm

Location: Tacoma Narrows Airport, Gig Harbor, WA

Admission: $15

http://www.gigharborcruisers.org

Daylilies – Dill Havens

Times: 10am

Location WSU – PC Master Gardner, 7611 Pioneer Way E, Puyallup

Admission: Free

http://www.pierce.wsu.edu/master_gardeners/workshops.pdf

Dog-A-Thon: The Humane Society’s Walk for Homeless Animals

Times: 8:30

Location: Fort Steilacoom County Park, 8200 87 Ave SW, Lakewood

Admission: Free, donations are appreciated

http://www.thehumanesociety.org/get-involved/dog-a-thon/dog-a-thon-teams

Ted Nugent

July 26, 2008

Times: 8:30pm

Location: Emerald Queen Casino, 2101 Alexander Ave, Tacoma

Admission: $35-65

http://www.emeraldqueen.com

Pacific Northwest Goodguys Rod & Custom National

July 25-27, 2008

Time: Friday 8am-5pm, Sat 8am-8pm, Sun 8am-3pm

Location: Puyallup Fair & Events Center, 110 9^th Ave SW, Puyallup

http://www.pacificnorthwestnats.com/

Ethnic Fest

July 26-27, 2008

Times: Check website

Location: Wright Park - Tacoma

Admission: Free

http://www.co.pierce.wa.us/pc/services/arts/ethfest.htm

Helpful Links:

Tacoma Metro Parks: http://www.metroparkstacoma.org/

Pierce County Parks: http://www.piercecountywa.org/pc/Abtus/ourorg/parks/parks.htm

Pierce County: http://www.piercecounty.com/

Skateparks: http://activerain.com/blogsview/596455/Skateparks-in-Tacoma-WA

Beaches & Piers: http://activerain.com/blogsview/594145/Tacoma-WA-Pierce-County

Farmers Markets: http://activerain.com/blogsview/593655/Tacoma-Pierce-County-WA

Pierce County, WA NWMLS Statistics

Tacoma & Area Real Estate

Below is a summary of the most recent Real Estate statistics for Pierce County.

Single Family Homes:

• Pierce County's Single Family homes median sale price of $265,000 is down 5% from $280,025 the same time in 2007.
• Sales lag behind the same time last year but June's numbers are showing signs of improvement over May and YTD figures.

Condominium:

• Pierce County's Condominium median sale price of $211,625 is down 7% from $227,950 the same time in 2007.
• Like Single Family Homes, sales lag behind the same time last year but are showing signs of improvement over YTD figures.

Northwest Multiple Listing Service (NWMLS) Realist Statistics:

Consult with your local Realtor for accurate and updated Real Estate information and statistics.

The Trey Affolter Team always welcomes questions and comments.

For additional Real Estate information, please visit TreySellsHouses or call Trey at 253-222-6000.

Korum Ford's
Purple Heart Mustang. 

As a thank you to our heroes, Jerry Korum, of Korum Ford, in Puyallup, WA, is offering a chance to a Purple Heart recipient to enjoy a brand new Mustang in honor of their commitment and service.

This mustang will be awarded to a recipient of a Purple Heart that lives or serves in Washington State on September 11, 2008 at the Puyallup Fair.

To Qaulify:

• Any Purple Heart Veteran from any War era that is from the US Army, Air Force, Marines, Navy or Coast Guard.
• A current resident of Washington State
• Application Deadline is August 1, 2008

Nominate a Purple Heart Veteran from any war era to win this Ford Mustang.

If you would like to nominate a wounded soldier to have a chance to win this Mustang, please review the following information PDF File.

For more information or to obtain an entry please contact Greg Becker, Marketing Director Korum Ford at, gbecker@korum.com.  Ask for PHM entry and event dates.

About Korum Motors

Korum Automotive Group- Take a look back over almost the last 50 years and one thing in the Puyallup Valley landscape has not changed. The Korum name has been synonymous with cars and trucks. In 1956 Mel Korum founded a dealership with the intent to service the needs of a growing community, and 49 years later his son, Jerry Korum, and his team are still going strong. The Korum Automotive Group of Dealerships, located at the corners of River Road and Meridian in Puyallup, have seen a community go from a small rural town, to one of the most active and thriving spots in Western Washington, and through all the changes, continued to grow and be an active participant in the economic and social development of the community. Korum Automotive Group Core Values.   Lead with vision and integrity. Deliver the "Korum Experience" with compassion and respect. Value and Invest in the Future. Honor our Families, Customers, and Community. Korum Automotive Group Core Purpose. Create an ongoing environment dedicated to the growth and development of our families, customers and communities.

Korum for Kids Foundation
P.O. Box 538
Puyallup, WA 98371
Telephone: (253) 286-5201
Contact: Sophia Korum-Carl, Mgr.
http://www.korum.com/Kids-Foundation.aspx

Thank you Jerry Korum for your support to our Military Heroes and the community.

Tacoma, WA & Pierce County Off-Leash Dog Parks

Below you will find information about local Dog Parks and links to Tacoma, Seattle, King County, and Clark County (Vancouver) Dog Parks. Plus you can search your community at DogPark.com.

Value:

Off-Leash Dog Parks offer fun and safe recreation areas for dog owners and their canine friends. You know they really are family. For us who live in communities with Dog Parks, we know it is a great way to exercise and socialize with our dogs. It also brings a community together as we socialize with each other.

The off-leash dog park benefits the community in many ways:

• Allows socialization and exercise of dogs in a safe environment
• Promotes responsible pet ownership
• Provides elderly and disabled owners an accessible place to exercise their companions
• Enables dogs to legally run off-leash
• Promotes public health and safety
• Provides a tool for realistic enforcement of dog control laws

Tacoma, WA & Pierce County Off-Leash Dog Parks:

1.  Fort Steilacoom Park Off-Leash Area  Come out and enjoy this fantastic park with two, large fenced in areas for you and your dog to roam and play. One section, just around 3 acres, is designated more for the small dogs and is reserved a few hours every Sunday to let the Greyhounds run. The large playfield, around 7 acres is a fun and safe place for all.

Fort Steilacoom Park is located at:

8714 - 87th Avenue SW
Lakewood, Washington 98498         
Click here for an aerial map with street names from Google.com

A few photos of Fort Steilacoom Dog Park & my dog, Jensi.

2.  Rogers Park Off-Leash Dog Park   Bring your pets to visit Tacoma's first off-leash dog park. The fully fenced off-leash area has a newly updated drinking fountain, bench and shelter. It is a perfect place for dogs to exercise and socialize.  

Rogers Park is located at:   Located at East 34th St & East "L" St, Tacoma  

3.  Off-leash Park Development  

Location: To be determined

What's Planned: Creation of community Off-Leash Dog Parks  

Funding Priorities:

• Wapato Lake - Designated Off-Leash Area - $50,000
• Point Defiance Park 'Baker Tract' - Establish an Off-Leash Area - $75,000
• Downtown Tacoma - Establish a downtown 'dog park' in cooperation with UW Tacoma and the City of Tacoma - $50,000    

Links:

TacomaDogPark.com  

Tacoma, WA Dog-Friendly City Guide  

Seattle Off-Leash Dog Park Areas  

King County Off-Leash Dog Park Areas  

Clark County - Vancouver Off-Leash Dog Park Areas    

To find Off-Leash Dog Parks in your community, visit dogpark.com.

Humane Society of Tacoma & Pierce County

Please follow posted park rules for your pet's and everyone's safety & enjoyment.

Enjoy the parks and enjoy Man's Best Friend!

"The Dream Movie"

by Marcia Wieder

One is a series of Inspirational Movies offered on the Simple Truths website, The Dream Movie: Dreams are Whispers from the Soul, is a short 3 minute movie with beautiful photography and famous quotes from individuals like Carl Sandburg, Eleanor Roosevelt, and Norman Vincent Peale.

  Carl Sandburg     Eleanor Roosevelt  Norman Vincent Peale

 Watch The Dream Movie   

I truly enjoy this website and often watch these videos as inspiration. I hope you enjoy.

Buying a home?

Worried about the downpayment?

Do you know where your home purchase downpayment can come from?

According to the Federal Housing Administration(FHA) your downpayment can come from any one of the following:

• Relative
• Employer
• Labor Union
• Charitable Organization
• A governmental agency or public entity

As defined by Federal Housing Administration (FHA):

Federal Housing Administration (FHA) approved mortgagees that seek FHA mortgage insurance on loans secured by single family houses, on which downpayment assistance has been provided to the borrower in the form of gifts, are required to determine that the gifts are from sources acceptable to FHA.

Paragraph 2-10 C of handbook HUD-4155.1 REV-5 provides that the donor of any such gift must be the borrower's relative, the borrower's employer or labor union, a charitable organization, a governmental agency or public entity that has a program to provide homeownership assistance to low- and moderate-income families or first-time homebuyers, or a close friend with a clearly defined and documented interest in the borrower. For FHA, charitable organizations are those nonprofits that are exempt from income taxation under section 501(a) of the Internal Revenue Service Code (IRC) of 1986 pursuant to section 501(c)(3) of the IRC.

So, don't let the challenge of the downpayment limit your ability to invest in a home, check your options. 

Be sure to consult with a Mortgage Lender for further details.

There are options for home buyers in and around Tacoma, WA and Pierce County. Call Trey for details about Downpayment Assitance Programs.

For additional Home Buying information call the Trey Affolter team at

 253-222-6000 or visit TreySellsHouses.

Want to beat the heat for the summer?

Below you will find information and links to Tacoma, WA swimming pools, wading pools, spraygrounds, swim lessons, pool parties, and water exercising offered by Metro Parks Tacoma.

Additional information for all the following can be found on the Metro Parks Tacoma website.  

Pools  

• Centre at Norpoint Pool  4818 Nassau Ave NE, Tacoma      253-591-5504  
• Eastside Pool   3524 E. L St, Tacoma     253-591-2042  
• Mt. Tahoma High School (lessons only)  4634 South 74th St, Tacoma 253-591-2042
• People's Center Pool  1602 Martin Luther King Jr. Way, Tacoma     253-591-5323  
• Stewart Heights Pool  402 E. 56th St, Tacoma     253-573-2532  
• Titlow Pool  8355 6th Ave, Tacoma     253-564-4044  
• Wilson High School (lessons only)  1202 N. Orchard St Tacoma     253-591-2042  

Wading Pools & Spraygrounds

Free way to cool off in Tacoma!

Wading Pools:

2008 Hours:
Monday-Friday 1-4 pm and 4:30-6:50 pm (All 5 pools)
Saturday-Sunday Noon-4pm (Wright Park only)

• Franklin Park map
• Wright Park map
• Portland Ave Park map
• Jane Clark Park map
• Manitou Park  map

 Spraygrounds:

2008 Hours:
May 26-Sept 1: Open daily 10am-8pm
Sept 2-28: Open weekends only 10am-8pm 

• Jefferson Park map
• McKinley Playfield map
• South Park map
• Wapato Hills Park map

Swim Lessons - Swim Lessons Sign Up.

• Eastside Pool - 3524 East L St
• Mt Tahoma High School Pool - 4634 S 74th St
• Wilson High School Pool - 1202 N Orchard St
• Centre at Norpoint - 4818 Nassau Ave NE
• Titlow Pool - 8355 6th Ave
• Stewart Heights Pool - 402 E 56th St

 Pool Parties - more information.

• Stewart Heights Pool (summer months only)
• Eastside Pool
• Centre at Norpoint

 Water Exercise

McChord Air Expo 2008  

The Mchord Air Expo is back...

          that means the Air Force Thunderbirds are BACK also!  

If you live and around Tacoma, WA, today you heard a sound we haven't heard since 2005, the Thunderbirds practicing for the McChord Air Expo July 19th and 20th. Because of current conflicts in the Middle East and our military member's commitment to operations, the airshow has been canceled the past few years. Not this year!   

The McChord Air Show features military and civilian flying acts, displays to visit, and showcases the Air Force's famous aerial demonstration team, the Thunderbirds.  The Thunderbirds, formed in 1953, has a rich tradition and always leaves crowds speechless. Here is your chance to appreciate the Air Force's premier aerial demonstration squadron.

Admission is FREE. 

Gates will open at 8:00am, and the flying starts at 11:00am, McChord AFB

Click on Thunderbirds, to learn more about the squadron and to view more photos.

click for info about McChord Air Force Base

McChord News:  

by Tyler Hemstreet
Staff writer

7/17/2008 - MCCHORD AIR FORCE BASE, Wash. -- Capt. Jammie Jamieson left the state of Washington with a fledgling love of flying. This weekend she returns as the first female operational and combat-ready pilot of the world's most advanced fighter aircraft, the F-22A Raptor. 

Captain Jamieson, who was born in Tacoma and lived in Prosser from 1982 until she left for the Air Force Academy in 1996, will be on hand as part of the F-22A Raptor static display featured at McChord Air Expo 2008.   

Click here to read the full story.

Thank you Military Personnel & families for your service & commitment.

God Bless the USA!

Tacoma & Pierce County WA Weekend Activities for July 18th - 20th, 2008

Weekend calandar & happenings in & around Tacoma & Pierce County, WA

Useful area links at bottom of page.

July 18, 2008

Music Off Main in Heritage Park – Fridays

Times: 6:30 pm

Location: Heritage Park, Sumner

Admission: Free

http://www.ci.sumner.wa.us

Summer Youth Book Club

Times: 1:30 – 3pm

Location Pacific Lutheran University, Garfield Book Co., Parkland

Admission: Free

http://www.plu.edu.com

South Sound Maritime Juried Art Exhibit

July 16-18

Times: 9am – 5pm

Location: 2506 S Fawcett, Tacoma

Admission: Free to Public

http://www.rainierleagueofarts.com

July 19-20, 2008

McChord Air Expo      (**Trey Affolter's pick**)

July 19 – 20

Times: Gates open @ 8am, flying starts at 10:30am

Location: McChord Air Force Base, McChord

Admission: Free

http://activerain.com/blogsview/598186/McChord-Air-Expo-2

Herb Garden Design – Pattie McFerran

Times: 10am

Location: WSU – 7611 Pioneer Way E, Puyallup

Admission: Free

http://www.pierce.wsu.edu/Master_Gardeners/workshops.pdf

S’mores and Snores Family Camp at Northwest Trek

Times: Saturday evenining through Sunday Morning

Location: Northwest Trek

Admission: $48 adults, $25 children

http://www.nwtrek.org

Tacoma Classic Weekend

Times: 9am – 9pm

Location Working Waterfront Maritime Museum, Tacoma

http://www.tacomaclassic.com

Walk Now for Autism 2008 – Tacoma

Times: 9am Registration, 10am walk starts

Location: Cheney Stadium, 2502 S Tyler St, Tacoma

Admission: Free, donations are appreciated

http://www.walknowforautism.org/tacoma

Celebrate! Spanaway Community Fair & Car Show

July 19 – 20, 2008

Times: 10am – 7pm

Location: 166^th & Pacific Ave (SR-7)

Admission: Free

http://www.celebratespanaway.com

Summer Splash-tacular!

July 19, 2008

Time: 11am – 5pm

Location Stewart Heights Pool

402 E 56^th St, Tacoma

http://www.sterwartheightspool.com

NW Gaited Horse Show

July 19 – 20, 2008

Location: Paulhamus Arena, Green Gate @ Puyallup Fairgrounds

Admission: Free

http://www.nwgaitedhosrse.com

Useful Area Links:

Metro Parks Tacoma, WA

Pierce County Parks & Recreation

Pierce County, WA

Skateparks in & around Tacoma, WA

Tacoma & Pierce County, WA Beaches, Boats & Piers

Tacoma & Pierce County, WA area Farmers Markets

Tacoma & Pierce County, WA area Swimming Pools & Splash Parks

We live in the greatest country in the World...God Bless the U.S.A.

Here is a great service for us to show our support to those who sacrifice so much, our military. Get linked to an individual to show support and offer words of encouragement. No matter what your views are of the war, support those who help us enjoy our freedom.

I'm signing up today and encourage you to do the same!!!

What's it going to cost you...nothing but a bit of time. The rewards probably can't be calculated.

A little about eMailOurMilitary.com as stated on their Facebook Group page:

Website:	http://www.eMailOurMilitary.com
Company Overview:	eMail Our Military provides a safe way for people to continue the tradition of "Any Service Member" mail with a much more personal touch. Service Members register with us for support and are matched with civilians registered to send and show their support to our troops.
Mission:	To provide encouragement, motivation and support to our Military Service Members directly through email, cards, letters, and ready-made care packages.
Products:	Supporting our military, one email at a time!

For more details and information, visit http://www.emailourmilitary.com/.

Sincerely,

Trey Affolter

Have you seen these two little, priceless quote books from Zig Ziglar and Jim Rohn? They are great quick reads and full of brilliant quotes from two brilliant men. I keep these handy to read from time to time and have even purchased as gifts...you can buy these for under $1.30 per book. They are very well received.

Below are a few of my favorite quotes:

Ambition:

"You are the only one who can use your ability. It is an awesome responsibility."-Zig Ziglar

Encouragement:

"Obstacles are the things we see when we take our eyes off our goals." -Zig Ziglar

Happiness:

"I'm so optimistic I'd go after Moby Dick in a row boat and take the tarter sauce with me." -Zig Ziglar

As many of you know, Zig has been feeling under the weather & we continue to pray for his recovery & health. Thanks, Zig.

Lexi Battles Leukemia

Lexi's Story: 

Lexi is a very outgoing, vivacious, loving little girl who loves to be outside, especially on the swings, and playing with her brother, Jacob. Along with loving her family, Lexi loves animals of all kinds, especially her cats, dog and fish. On June 6^th, 2008, Lexi was diagnosed with ALL.

Monday, July 14, $25,000 was raised at an event for Lexi Bonner and her family at The Keg restaurant in Puyallup, WA. Thank you everyone who made auction item donations, individual contributions, and The Keg for offering a venue and the great burgers.

Lexi's Website: 

CaringBridge & Seattle's Childrens Hospital have set up a free website for Lexi and her family, so family & friends can follow her progress, leave an inspirational message, or make a donation. Visit Lexi's website by clicking here.

To View a slide show of Lexi click here.

Upcoming Event:

Baseball Night / Bonner Family Fundraiser - $25/person

Tacoma Rainiers Baseball Club @ Cheney Stadium, Tacoma

July 31, gates open @ 6pm, Game starts @ 7pm

1 1/2 hour BBQ buffet with beer, wine, soda, and water included.

Please keep Lexi and the Bonner Family in your thoughts and prayers.

Need a Little Daily Spiritual Message?

I signed up several months ago for free e-mail delivery of Daily Word messages from Daily Word and enjoy each and every message. It's amazing how a lot of messages hit at just the right time.

Here is today's Message from Daily Word:

Daily Word - Thursday, July 10, 2008 Grace - I am building my life on the foundation of God's grace. We may be well acquainted with the idea that we receive in life in direct relation to what we give to life. However, when it comes to the grace of God, there is nothing we must give to receive it. Grace is a gift from God that is absolute and without qualification. Because this is so, I choose to live my life based upon the foundation of God's grace. I do this by pausing to realize that God's presence is in and all around me as life, love, and wholeness. I understand that people, conditions, the weather, and even the land are continually changing. The one thing that never changes is the presence of God in it all and the grace of God blessing all. I give thanks this day and every day for the grace of God, the foundation upon which I can and do build my life. "I give thanks to my God always for you because of the grace of God that has been given you in Christ Jesus."--1 Corinthians 1:4

I hope you enjoy!

Tacoma, WA Beaches & Piers

In and around Tacoma, WA (Pierce County), we are fortunate to be by the water and enjoy it's beauty and recreational activities offered. You can fish, swim, rent a boat, picnic, hike, or relax by the water's edge at nearby piers, beaches and the Boathouse Marina. Below are beaches available and links to additional information.

For more detailed information you may visit. MetroParksTacoma. 

Beaches & Boats

Point Defiance Marina     (Point Defiance Park)

At the Point Defiance Marina you will find:

• Free Public Fishing Pier
• Boat and Motor Rentals
• Bait and Tackle 
• Boat and Personal Watercraft Dry Storage
• Public Boat Launch
• Souvenir and Gift Shop
• Guest Moorage
• Fuel Sales 

Owen Beach     Point Defiance Park (5605 N Owen Beach Rd.)

Kayak Rentals at Owen Beach

• Noon - 7pm daily (weather permitting)
• Includes paddle, pfd (personal floatation device - aka life jacket) and float cushion.
• Visa/MC/Discover/Novus
• For more info call:
  Ruston Recreation Rentals
  5102 N. Winnifred St.
  Ruston, WA 98407
  253-759-8151

Titlow Beach and Park    8425 6th Ave. (West end of 6th Avenue)

Piers

• Old Town Dock(2123 Schuster Pkwy.)
• Les Davis Pier(3427 Ruston Way)
• Dash Point Pier/Park (1500 Beach Dr. NE)

Be safe and have fun!

 Mount Rainier, Washington

I have lived in Tacoma, WA, for over 30 years and every day I see Mount Rainier I am still in awe. As I was driving today and saw the mountain, I was inspired to share the aesthetic beauty. One of the many pleasures for living in the Great Northwest. Enjoy a few pictures & facts. 

 Mt Rainier Facts: 

• 13,210 feet
• Active composite volcano
• Highest peak in the Cascade Range
• Mt. Rainier National Park
• 26 major glaciers
• Supplies 5 major rivers
• Located in Pierce County, WA
• Located 54 miles from Seattle

Click here to learn more about:

• Geological History
• Human History
  • Naming Controversy
• Subsidiary peaks
• Climbing & recreation

I see you...will the police???

Maybe you haven't heard or maybe you choose to ignore, but Washington State has two new driving laws in effect. As I am driving lately, I am still noticing a large number of drivers violating these new laws. Here is a recap and links to information regarding the new laws.

Washington State had two cell-phone related driving laws go into effect in 2008.

1. Washington State Text-Messaging Ban, effective January 1, 2008.
2. Washington State Hands-Free Driving Law, effective July 1, 2008.

Read more detailed information about the new driving laws in Washington by visiting DrivingLaws.org.

Click here to see a funny video, Hands Free - Its the Law!, posted YouTube.

Keep our streets, and yourself, safe!

Want to beat the heat for the summer?

Below you will find information and links to Tacoma, WA swimming pools, wading pools, spraygrounds, swim lessons, pool parties, and water exercising offered by Metro Parks Tacoma.

Additional information for all the following can be found on the Metro Parks Tacoma website.  

Pools  

• Centre at Norpoint Pool  4818 Nassau Ave NE  253-591-5504  
• Eastside Pool 3524 E. L St  253-591-2042  
• Mt. Tahoma High School (lessons only) 4634 South 74th St 253-591-2042
• People's Center Pool 1602 Martin Luther King Jr. Way  253-591-5323  
• Stewart Heights Pool  402 E. 56th St 253-573-2532  
• Titlow Pool  8355 6th Ave  253-564-4044  
• Wilson High School (lessons only) 1202 N. Orchard St 253-591-2042  

Wading Pools & Spraygrounds

Free way to cool off in Tacoma!

Wading Pools:

2008 Hours:
Monday-Friday 1-4 pm and 4:30-6:50pm (All 5 pools)
Saturday-Sunday Noon-4pm (Wright Park only)

• Franklin Park map
• Wright Park map
• Portland Ave Park map
• Jane Clark Park map
• Manitou Park  map

 Spraygrounds:

2008 Hours:
May 26-Sept 1: Open daily 10am-8pm
Sept 2-28: Open weekends only 10am-8pm 

• Jefferson Park map
• McKinley Playfield map
• South Park map
• Wapato Hills Park map

Swim Lessons - Swim Lessons Sign Up.

• Eastside Pool
• Mt Tahoma High School Pool Wilson High School Pool
• Centre at Norpoint
• Titlow Pool
• Stewart Heights Pool

 Pool Parties - more information.

• Stewart Heights Pool (summer months only)
• Eastside Pool
• Centre at Norpoint

 Water Exercise

Tacoma & Pierce County, WA area Farmers Markets 

 Puyallup Farmers Market    

Meridian & 4th Ave SW 

Sat 9am- 2pm May 5 - October 27: Sun 10am - 2pm  May 6 - August 26

  Tacoma Dome District Farmers Market    

E 25th St between D & G St

Tue 3pm - 7pm: June 5 - Aug 28

  Tacoma (Proctor) Farmers Market     

N 27th & N Proctor

Sat 9am - 2pm: April 28 - October 27

  Tacoma Farmers Market    

Broadway between 9th & 11th

Thur 9am - 2pm: May 17 - October 18

  T.H.E. Farmers Market, University Place

     Bridgeport Way W & 37th St

Sat 9am - 2pm: May 5 - October 13

  Gig Harbor Farmers Market    

3500 Hunt St NW at HWY 16

Sat 8:30am - 2pm: April 7 - Sept 29

    To view more information regarding Pierce County's, Puget Sound, Farmers Market click here.