June 28, 2012 Buzz: Outdoors News Shorts
Harbor Tours with a Personal Touch
Captain Tom Drohan has been taking folks out on tours of Gig Harbor since 2007. He operates two authentic, restored U.S. Navy boats that are U.S.C.G. certified for up to 39 passengers each. The boats “Destiny” and “Maritime” are named for Tacoma, the city of Destiny, and Gig Harbor, the Maritime City. It’s a great way to get out on the Sound and see some sights in a more personal way, with a knowledgeable guide. “On every tour I start with a talk about how the changing tides help drive our ecosystem,” says Captain Tom. “It is my destiny to bring people out into the wonders of Puget Sound.” A noble calling!
Best of all, Captain Tom has a special discount for Outdoors NW readers. Mention us and get $10 off per person on the daily noon Port of Tacoma and Sound tour or $6 off the 6 p.m. Gig Harbor, Pt. Defiance, Mt. Rainier tour!
Art Installation at Oregon Caves National Monument
A unique art tourism exhibit is on view in the Illinois River Valley and at the Oregon Caves National Monument and Chateau. Garden gates decorated by over 30 artists will be on display along both major corridors: Redwood Highway (199) and Caves Highway (46) as well as two at the Oregon Caves National Monument. The Chateau lobby features a gate by Rusk Ranch board members Patty Downing, Linda Naydol and Rick Alves titled “A Gift” and the gate at the Chalet titled “Flower Bower” is by an anonymous artist.
Throughout the season, the Grants Pass Visitor Center, corner of 6th and G Street and the Grants Pass Chamber of Commerce will be showing different gates as well. The Illinois River Valley Arts Council website has more information on where you can see these unique pieces of art. The gates will be auctioned off on Sept. 8 at Deer Creek Vineyards in Selma.
