By Shana Smith and Jon Rose

Not only is the New Year a chance to look forward with excitement and anticipation, but it’s also an opportunity to celebrate the past 12 months by recognizing and thanking the organizations and individuals that made 2012 so special.

So, without further ado, a warm, heartfelt thank you to:

— The Kitsap Forest & Bay Coalition for its ongoing efforts to help our community preserve nearly 7,000 acres of open space in north Kitsap County. At a time when public funding is limited, this diverse group understands the urgency and importance of this property acquisition initiative.

The group is leaving no stone unturned in an effort to secure the necessary dollars before the purchase option agreement expires on March 28.

— The North Kitsap Trails Association and all of the recreationalists who not only use the nearly 60 miles of trails on Pope Resources’ land, but more importantly volunteer hundreds of hours on the maintenance and development of the trails’ system, making it a true destination for hikers, bikers, horseback riders, birders and other outdoors people.

— The residents around Gamble Bay for their participation, open-mindedness and ideas as we all move forward to preserve this community jewel that is Gamble Bay and to create a sustainable future for the town of Port Gamble.

— The 36 commercial tenants and 52 residential tenants who live and work in the town of Port Gamble and help make it a vibrant waterfront community with a great future ahead of it.

— The state, regional and local elected officials and their staff members, many of whom work tirelessly and without much recognition, for their continued efforts to ensure that north Kitsap County remains a wonderful place to live, work and play.

— Port Gamble’s annual Country Christmas, a popular holiday tradition for north Kitsap, simply wouldn’t happen without support from companies and individuals like Ferrell Gas and Olympic Property Group, which sponsored the fireworks; John Westerlund at Westerlund Wood and Tree Service, who provided the community Christmas tree and helped hang nearly 100,000 holiday lights around the town; and, local author Gregg Olsen and Eric Ellis of Ferrell Gas for helping judge the annual holiday fruitcake contest.

— All the caterers, photographers, wedding planners, officiants, DJs and florists that help make Port Gamble one of the most spectacular wedding venues in the Pacific Northwest. Since 2003, when we opened the Port Gamble Wedding and Events business, nearly 600 couples have tied the knot in Port Gamble. Thank you to all the brides, grooms and wedding parties that selected Port Gamble for their special day.

Now, on to 2013.

Plenty of fun ahead
With the New Year just around the corner, it’s time to get serious about those pesky New Year’s health and fitness resolutions. Here’s a suggestion: Participate in the new “Yoga at Port Gamble” program. Instructor Trish Olson will teach the practice of gentle yoga postures, breathing techniques and deep relaxation, in a class designed for all levels.

After exercising your body, why not go strengthen your mind? Our free Museum Lecture Series returns on the first Monday of every month, (Jan. 14, Feb. 9) from 6-8 p.m. at the Hood Canal Vista Pavilion. Knowledgeable speakers and/or panelists will detail some of the more significant parts of Port Gamble’s rich history, as well as sharing some of the quirks and mysteries of the historic mill town.

If you’re looking for a fun new experience, join us on one of the acclaimed Port Gamble Ghost Walks where you’ll get to experience a spookier side of the town. The walks take place from 7-9 p.m. on Jan. 19 and Feb. 16. The walks book up quickly, so make your reservation now for groups of 16 or more.

Don’t forget about the kiddos! We’re holding a Valentine’s Craft Workshop Feb. 9 at the Walker-Ames Mansion. Kids will have the opportunity to get hands on in a fun and festive Valentine’s-themed “crafter-noon.”

For information on these events or other activities at Port Gamble, please contact the Events Office, (360) 297-8074.

—Jon Rose is president of Olympic Property Group. Shana Smith is the town manager of Port Gamble. Email ssmith@orminc.com.