Say Aloha with Island Fare at Half Moon Bay Bar and Grill

Show of hands: Who got in enough beach time this summer? I know I didn't!

But as the weather slips into fall, then winter, the ideal beach time has definitely passed us by until next spring. However, that doesn't mean you shouldn't still visit our friends out at the beach - just pack a sweatshirt instead of a beach towel. After you comb the beach this winter after a blustery storm or find yourself taking a cool fall Sunday drive to the coast, plan to lunch at Half Moon Bay Bar and Grill in Westport. Aside from providing a warm, cozy shelter from the Harbor weather (and an award winning Bloody Mary), Half Moon Bay Bar and Grill promises to transport you to another beach altogether with their special Hawaiian menu items.

Hawaiian Style Kalua Pork

The island-inspired options are available on the lunch and dinner menus and are sure to get you in the sunny island spirit. Have you ever indulged in Pork Lumpia or Kalua Pork? I recently enjoyed both during a family lunch at the restaurant. But there's plenty more beyond that to "taste" the islands. Just look at the screen shot of the menu- is your mouth watering?

A Snapshot of the Menu at HMB

Don't forget to sign up for Ohana Rewards, too! This is a loyalty points program put on by the restaurant - the more you patronize the establishment, the more points you rack up towards Rewards certificates that you can use at the establishment.

...like living at the beach, Vacation by the Sea

Imagine not having to load up your vehicle every time you wanted a little sea air.  Imagine no long car rides home after a sandy filled day at the beach.  Imagine walking out on your balcony and breathing the clean fresh salt air.  There is certainly nothing like living at the beach and while real estate on the sand may be at a premium these days, you can experience all the perks of living at the beach with Vacations by the Sea.

There are buzzwords that my co-workers who live at the beach always seem to say, relaxing, calm, open and peacefull.  If you ask me, I go to any beach I am even remotly near for the ambiance.  Something about sitting near that water that is so refreshing.  I dont even mind the sand.

Site upon site out there in internet land sings the praises of Vacations by the sea, this gem in Westport, from Judy's Book, to TripAdvisor, NorthWest Escapes and of course, GoGo ourselves!

So even if you cant afford to buy, you can certainly afford to visit and stay.  Wake up everyday to the ocean and pretend you live there.  Even if is only for the weekend!

An artist rendering of the Vacation by the Sea condos located on the beach in Westport, WA.



photo courtesy of Vacations by the Sea



Hey There, Harborite: Barley Bennett

This weeks Hey There is a special request brought to you by The Salty Dog in Seabrook, Wa.

Name/Age: Barley Bennett/  One and 1/2 years old

Where Do You Live: Cosmopolis, in a doggy igloo that is all my own

Profession/Day Job: Bone chewer, hole digger, and face licker

Loyal To: my wobbly kong and if you dont know what that is you must click here.

Best Harbor Moment: My grand escape from my old house to run around in the snow on Cleveland Street all morning long.

Favorite Treat: My Tundershirt that I bought from Ann at The Salty Dog, did you know that I get a treat everytime I wear it?

Favorite Local Business: The Salty Dog, they have an awesome bath there that feels so good after I play in the sand!

Grunge, Metal or Country: Whatever my mom is listening to in the car, I dont really care it is all English to me!

Beach, Forest or River: All of the above! I can play in the water at the beach and the river, there are so many fun smells in the forest and I can play fetch anywhere so just let me bring my ball and I will be happy.

Favorite Outdoor Adventure: Pacific Beach. Have you seen all the sandpiper birds at the beach? They are so fun to chase and try to catch and run after.

Define the Harbor in One Word: Huge!

If You Could Change One Thing About the Area, What Would it Be: Can we get a Dog Park up in here people, I would build it but I don't have thumbs!

Grays Harbor's Best Kept Secret: Its loving homes for pets like me;)

There's a Jeanius Among Us

"Jeans for 1000, Alec."

"This store, known for its trendy take on the classic jeans and t-shirt look, is located in Hoquiam, WA."

"What is...Pure Clothing?"

"You are correct!"

Seriously, if you ever wanted to change your mind about the jeans and t-shirt fashion style that is oh so typical of Grays Harbor, you need to take a visit to Pure Clothing in Hoquiam. Shopowner JoKay has so carefully hand selected the items in her shop that I guarantee you will see jeans-and-tshirt in a whole new, very trendy light.

Hand selected, you say? Yes! If you meet JoKay in person, you will immediately realize that the store is an extension of her. Trendy, funky and fun, yet down to earth and instantly warm. Everything in her store must reflect the relaxed and hip, down to earth style that she embodies and that she has observed around the Grays Harbor area so she scours everything from garage sales to thrift stores from here to California to bring back unique versions of the style. JoKay says, "What are we as a community? We're a jeans and t-shirt community." But she says it with matter of fact pride, and gestures around her store. There's no shame in being a casual community, and her intention is to keep it fresh and unique. 

But what makes it what it is...is the jeans. Oh, the racks upon racks of killer jeans that are available! There are skinny jeans, flare jeans, capris, bellbottoms and men's jeans! 'Jean'ius JoKay's eye for quality denim means that you'll be getting pairs of fantastic jean labels (Silver, Levi's, Maurices and more) at affordable prices. Her expert eye ensures that she omits pairs with "unwanted holes" and keeps pairs that shout fashionista! and make you stand out in a crowd. In a good way. Start at the jeans, find yourself a couple of pairs, then move along to the t-shirts and accessories. You'll have no trouble finding your own style that's 'Purely' Grays Harbor at Pure Clothing.

Why shop out of town for trends that reflect Grays Harbor? Visit Pure Clothing at 317 7th Street in Hoquiam on Thursday, Fridays & Saturdays from 11a-6p.

Or visit pureclothinghoquiam.blogspot.com!

A colorful array of t-shirts are available at Pure Clothing

Discover Your Singing Voice

I have been what I will call an amateur singer for quite some time now.  I sang in elementary school,(while playing the drums mind you), and took choir classes in Jr. High School.  In High School I joined the concert choirs and the jazz choirs, sang in musicals and competed in singing competitions.  In Jr. College I joined the jazz choir and participated in the musicals as well, and at WWU I sang in the concert choir.  However nothing has ever scared me as much as private voice lessons.  Maybe it is the thought in the back of my mind that the teacher is going to be judging my voice! 

So when i walked into BVS (Bergey Voice Studio) to do a mock consultation with Kelsey Bergey, the owner, I was slightly nervous.  Kelsey's studio is on the second floor of the Rosavear building in downtown Aberdeen and is painted a cheery yellow.  The bay window has a lovely window seat and looks out to the bridge and the people passing by.  The room, while not large, is spacious enough for a piano, comfy chairs and Kelsey's office.  Music books are stacked on the piano top and stashed neatly in bookshelves, the decor is artsy and fun, a great learning environment that puts one at ease immediately.

The first piece of information that Kelsey asked for was my contact information, she tries to do most things electronically to be environmentally friendly.  She then handed me her studio agreement and her overview and polices brochure, told me there would not be a quiz and then asked me to sit so we could chat for a bit about why I wanted to take vocal lessons.  She has recruited students of a wide variety of ages from 9 to 73, and each one has a different reason for wanting to learn to sing, so getting to know your students from the first meeting is the key to success.  When getting to know her new potential students she wants to understand what gets them excited, what kind of music they love and stresses that they are not going to be judged for their ability, but coached to reach their goals. 

What many people might not know about a vocal consultation is that it is the teacher that is getting interviewed, not the student.  As a client, you need to find the vocal instructor that is going to have your vocal health in mind when teaching you to sing.  Kelsey says that her main focus is healthy singing.  She checks in with her students often to make sure they are not experiencing any discomfort.  The first rule of being a teacher she believes is "first, do no harm". 

After we had discussed why I wanted to have singing lessons, Miss Bergey gave me a rundown of how her studio works.  She teaches weekly lessons (1/2 hour, 45 min and 1 hr), and teaches throughout the year.  Kelsey is happy teaching at any level and it is not a requirement to be able to read music.  She does provide many opportunities for her students to perform in the public realm, but is it not a requirement.  If you prefer to keep your singing private she is great with that as well.

You can tell that Kelsey is a very passionate teacher when she speaks about the process of teaching vocal lessons.  When I asked about the challenges of being a teacher she mentioned, "Teaching is about thinking on your feet..its also a measure of experience, the more information you have the better",  "There is no rulebook, lots of resources but everyone learns differently", she says, however she has been a student for so many years that she understands that feeling of nerves and the scariness that comes with singing in front of someone new.  The 'great pile of unknown' goes away with familiarity, and as Kelsey says, "it is usually a positive experience getting to the comfort zone."

After we had talked for about a half-hour about her studio and what I wanted to get out of vocal lessons, we talked about the lessons themselves.  Kelsey claims she is not the best piano player, but that has benefited her students as she is able to focus on the technical aspect of singing as well.  She works on phrasing, breathing, vowel shapes and making the singing process healthy.  Her goal is to make the student comfortable singing the song at any level.  The best way to get your feet wet is to jump right in. Try the six week Seasonal Lesson Session and if you decide to continue BVS will waive the registration fee!

Bergey Voice Studio is Kelsey's passion and she wants to share that with students who are willing to learn and eager to sing.  She encourages questions during her lessons and makes sure that each student is able to track their progress and get excited about the upcoming lessons.  Get started today and while you will most definitely learn to sing, you will also feel a boost in your self confidence that helps each day begin on a high note.

Everyday is a Vacation by the Sea

Late in the afternoon on Sunday as I was cleaning up the messes from the day and contemplating exactly how un-fun (yes it is now a word) being an adult is on beautiful summer days, my husband suggested a drive to the coast.  Westport more specifically.  It was about six o'clock in the evening and the sun was hours from setting so we packed up the dog and headed out of town.  On the drive to what I have always referred to as my 'happy place', I took a minute to realize how lucky we are to live where we live.  It takes about a 1/2 hour to drive from the middle of Cosmopolis into Westport and once you are there you are literally on the beach! 

Having left the house quickly, I was slightly unprepared for the unpredictable weather that can sometimes accompany a trip to our beaches.  I usually have an emergency towel or two, a few bottles of water, (for when our dog Barley eats too much sand) an extra pair of shoes and a sweatshirt or two.  However on this day we left the house with one towel that Barley had been using for a blanket in the back of my SUV, flip flops on our feet and no sweatshirts to be seen.  Risky? Yes. Did it pay off? Absolutely.  A good day in Westport is a coastal wind that must be endured with a hooded jacket and a pair of jeans, but Sunday evening was windless and sunny, a perfect evening to play on the sand with Barley.  We didn't need the extra towel, we didn't even need a jacket! 

For now, my family does not need to plan an extended vacation to enjoy the beach, but having lived in the middle of the Mojave Desert for a little over a year I can appreciate how long of a drive it is for most people to reach the ocean and boy do I feel for them.  However with the advent of great vacation spots it is easier to dream of the sea even when you live miles and miles from it.  In Westport the place that gets my whole hearted thumbs up is Vacations by the Sea.  Condos with a view, and accommodations that allow you to enjoy the beach no matter what the weather.  A day at the beach can require several changes of clothes and a few different pairs of footwear, which is made all the easier when you rent a condo near the ocean.  You can enjoy the salty air, (and sand between your toes) knowing that you have a comfy place just minutes away to return to and relax in.  Vacations by the Sea also has many pet-friendly condos and loves to accept pictures of your puppy on the beach at forthedogs@vacationsbythesea.  This is a huge plus for people like my husband and me who take our large dog with us wherever we go. 

Vacations by the Sea has a great connection to the social networks, you can find them on Facebook, Twitter, YouTube and Pinterest.  They have a very informative website vacationbythesea.com and take reservations both online and by phone at (360) 268-1119. 

Old is New in Fashion

Pure Clothing is fashion,
it is a place where everything old is new again!

photo courtesy of Julie Rajcich Designs

It is Saturday morning and you find yourself with some free time to shop.  The first place you should head is Pure Clothing in Hoquiam. Are you in desperate need of a few new-to-you pairs of jeans?  Have you always wanted a pair of Silver Jeans, but the paycheck could not afford them?  

The selection is not only trendy, but easy on the pocket book.  

Does it get any better than a pair of vintage Levis?

So maybe today you are not looking for a really great pair of jeans or that fantastic rock tee that would complete your collection.  Maybe today you need that perfect belt that goes with everything, or a great pair of earrings that match that shirt you bought but can never find anything to wear with.  Whatever your needs, Pure Clothing has it and at a great price.  Jokay Daniel prides herself with the pure (see the pun) and simple fact that all clothing has a history and it doesn't end with just one person.  She only accepts the truly great fashion of our past and brings it to the customer with the ease of walking through her door.

photo courtesy of Julie Rajcich Designs

Walking into Pure Clothing on July's First Thursday in Hoquiam, I definitely got the sense of welcome and warmth from the friendly atmosphere and the beautiful old hard wood floors.  My husband and I had decided to go in to replenish his T-shirt collection but once inside I found myself heading for the belts and purses, a small addiction that I continually work on.  I walked out with three new belts and hardly any cash gone from my pocket!  Jokay mentions that she mostly deals in jeans and Tees but the real bargains come in small accessory sizes.

Make sure that you stop in to visit Pure Clothing this Thursday August 2nd for August's First Thursday at 317 7th St, Hoquiam, WA 98550

You can find Pure Clothing on Facebook and the Pure Clothing blog or contact at (360) 581-8450

The Salty Dog: One Stop Pup Shop

Pacific Beach and Seabrook is the place to be for one stop shop pet supplies at The Salty Dog, our Brighter Summer Business sponsor.  We are animal lovers here at GoGoGraysHarbor, and our four legged pals are a great subject of talk at our meetings.  We have all imagined their voices, their likes and why they do the crazy annoying adorable things they do.  The Salty Dog in Pacific Beach has mastered the art of listening to our puppies and provide many of the necessities they need and want. 

image copyright of The Salty Dog 2012

If you have not yet had a chance to visit this shop in the town of Seabrook, it is a must-stop on your next trip to the beach.  A great majority of their products are produced right here in the pacific northwest, and, more importantly, every product is quality tested by some of the cutest pups around, Max, Henry and Gus.  They carry the brands your dogs know and love plus the Salty Dog exclusive squeaky razor clam, not to be missed for sure!

Packing up for a day on the sand with your dog? Collapsible bowls, water toys, and great up-cycled leashes and collars are all stocked and ready to go.  With the shops proximity to the beach, the self serve dog wash is super handy and is always stocked with shampoos and bath products to clean up after a day in the sand. 

The Salty Dog stocks the toys our pets adore and have even provided for us two legged creatures. Shop their apparel and match your pooch with a Salty Dog sweatshirt and bandanna for Fido.

Yappy Hour is another great reason to take your dog to Seabrook for a bit of barking socialization with the local crowd.  The Salty Dogs (almost) monthly event provides shoppers time to browse around and sip a delicious cocktail while man's best friend makes four legged friends of his/her own.  Look for the next event on Saturday September 3rd.

Visit The Salty Dog at 220 Front St. Pacific Beach, Washington
Contact The Salty Dog at 581-9300

A Voice to Build a Business on

Talented, check. Charming, check. A wonderful and patient teacher, double check.

 

Kelsey Bergey, owner of Bergey Voice Studio, LLC (BVS), is a native harborite with a lot to sing about.  While her own musical career is impressive in itself, it is her studio that drives Kelsey's desire to succeed in business here on the harbor.

Do you or your friends and family have dreams of belting out a beautiful song? BVS has a unique approach to voice lessons that begins with a free consultation and individualized vocal instruction.  Sessions can be scheduled for 30, 45, or 60 minutes on a once-a-week basis. 

To really go for the gusto and accelerate your learning try the six week Seasonal Lesson session for a flat rate!

Bergey Voice Studio, LLC is an innovative educational and performance music studio specializing in training the human singing voice and is continually evolving in these changing times as the world becomes an even more wonderful and challenging place. It is a journey that is shared with the students as BVS strives to build a foundation for a lifetime of learning.

All ages and all levels accepted. Lets get Grays Harbor singing... sign up today!

To see some of Kelsey's students perform be sure to head to the Discover Lake Sylvia Fall Festival on Sept. 15 at Lake Sylvia in Montesano.

Contact Bergey Voice Studio at bergeyvoice@gmail.com and 360.589.8524
Location: Aberdeen, WA

Owner, Kelsey Bergey, contralto

Crab Cakes, Hawaiian Donuts and Mac & Jack Mussels - Oh My!

Get some fresh seafood this weekend whether you're on the harbor or in the big city, from our sponsor Half Moon Bay Bar & Grill!

Any harborites in Seattle this weekend should head to Seattle Center, and specifically the south side of the International Fountain.  Squeezed in between Famous Dave's BBQ and Mrs. B's Desserts, you'll find our team from Half Moon Bay Bar & Grill, serving up the finest Westport Dungeness Crab Cakes that money can buy.  We're also dishing up our popular Mac & Jack Mussels, Malasadas (Portuguese Hawaiian Donuts), and Lumpia.  

The Comcast Bite of Seattle is the Northwest's premier food festival, with over 50 restaurants and 30 other food vendors participating.  Over 400,000 people attended last year's event, and we're hoping for an even bigger crowd this year. Our staff spent the week prepping hundreds of pounds of local Dungeness Crab, making huge batches of sauces and dough. 

The logistics of preparing and transporting so much food is not without its challenge, it is akin to building and setting up a 10' by 20' outdoor "mini-restaurant."  Despite the hard work, we love to attend these events because we get to promote Westport, share our Aloha Spirit and put our dishes to the test among all the other fantastic restaurants in that participate.  Half Moon Bay Bar and Grill has won several honors for their seafood over the past 2 years, including Best Entree awards at the Bite of Seattle in 2009 and 2010, as well as the Taste of Tacome in 2009, 2010, and 2012.  

If you're not headed to the big City, then come and see us at the Half Moon Bay Bar and Grill in the Historic Islander on the Westport Marina to experience waterfront dining with a touch of Aloha!  Fresh crab and award winning Dungeness Crab Cakes are always on the menu.  We are open from 11am - 9pm daily, and serve breakfast on the weekends.  Call for reservations at 360-268-9166.