Forty-three members and guests of the Steilacoom Chamber of Commerce enjoyed a “Spring Evening at The Bair” on Thursday, April 22. Representing the Port of Tacoma, Connie Bacon was the featured guest speaker during the dinner. She stated that the Port is currently conducting a “nationwide search for a new CEO who is trustworthy, who will tell us the right story in business for the Port of Tacoma, who understands strategic thinking, and is a go-getter.” According to Bacon, the Port of Tacoma is “beginning to see a tiny rise in activity, but anticipates steady growth over the next five years.” She added that the Port has spent $170M to clean-up Puget Sound and Commencement Bay. There are ongoing negotiations with the Puyallup Tribe about possibly operating a terminal, as well. Bus tours of the Port of Tacoma are available to the public and scheduled every couple of months.
Jack Brake and Kevin Callanan displayed a scale model of a visitor information center/kiosk slated for construction alongside Bair Bistro. The proposed design will feature panels that can be sponsored by Steilacoom civic groups.
Sarah Cannon is the new proprietor of Bair Bistro (formerly Bair Drug & Hardware) and plans are moving along toward the official grand opening of the restaurant. Previously, May 1 had been published as the date to expect the restaurant to be open to the public. Cannon stated that she and her team are still working hard toward that goal and it might happen, but more realistically it is likely that she will open the business to the public by Mother’s Day. Plans are for the restaurant to be open from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m., Wednesday through Sunday – for now. However, it is her ultimate goal to be open sevens day a week. Bair Bistro will even boast a walk-up/take-out window and curbside service so phoned-in orders can be swiftly picked-up and taken home. Diners enjoyed a sumptuous meal of “Baked Chicken, Mashers with Mushroom Scallion Gravy”, mixed greens salad with balsamic vinaigrette, and spectacular Raspberry Torte or Brownies for dessert. Cannon’s team did an outstanding job of making every guest feel welcome.
Steilacoom Chamber President Cindy McKitrick made a presentation about the resurrection of an old-time Steilacoom Chamber promotion of “Steilacoom Dollars.” Each “Steilacoom Dollar” is effectively a $1 certificate that can be used for purchases from participating merchants including Jake’s Bar & Bistro, Organic Dog Treat Bakery, Steilacoom Marine & Spirits, Steilacoom Pub & Grill, and Bair Bistro. Drawings were held and varying amounts of “Steilacoom Dollars” were awarded as prizes during the dinner.
Flyers were distributed inviting Chamber members and their guests to attend a Business after Hours event Tuesday, May 25, 4:00 – 6:30 p.m. at Bridgeport Place Retirement and Assisted Living. http://bridgeportplaceassisted.com Jaynie Jones, Community Relations Coordinator, announced that visitors will be treated to wine tasting with hors d’oeuvres, desserts, chair massage, and tours. Wine for the event will be purchased from Steilacoom Marine & Spirits, longtime members of the Steilacoom Chamber. http://steilacoom.org
