Thursday, April 10th

It’s the final day of the tour and we left Silverdale, headed to Pt. Townsend.

The Governor had a great evening in Bremerton.  She joined Gary Sexton, who heads up economic development for the city, and saw some of the significant revitalization projects in the city. 

My favorites were the fountains. One shoots water out of it like a cannon at pre-set times.  We were treated to the “cannon” going off multiple times. If you’re in the wrong place, you’ll need to change clothes! Luckily, all stayed dry.  Check out the photo shot by the Kitsap Sun.

Bremerton is doing some amazing things and is on its way to becoming a premier waterfront community.

After the tour, the Governor met with a group of community leaders for an engaging discussion about issues important to them, including ferries.  Ferries are expected to be a hot topic in Pt. Townsend too.

Some of the folks on the bus have been here since day one of the tour.  I asked Bill Hanson, the Executive Director of the Washington State Patrol Troopers Association, how it was going. He said he’s enjoyed it, “It’s been quite a week and it’s going great.” His organization and six others statewide police and firefighter organizations publicly endorsed the Governor on Monday, citing her work around public safety.

We’re getting close to Pt. Townsend.  More updates later.

Debra C.

Port Townsend

The Taking on Challenges, Getting Results tour bus left Pt. Townsend, and the locals love the Gov!

She was greeted by a capacity crowd of 100 at a local diner, the Public House, known for its good food and conversation.  While the locals cheered, the Pt. Townsend Mayor delivered a rousing welcome. She even said she was shaking, “and I never shake.”

The Governor’s remarks created even more energy in the room.  They applauded when she talked about her commitment to education, veterans’ issues and the environment. Then came transportation…

“Yes, let’s talk about transportation. You thought I was going to chicken out,” said the Governor. The crowd laughed.  Then the Governor assured them of her commitment to a top-notch ferry fleet in this state.

After leaving the restaurant, Gov. Chris Gregoire headed out for a walking tour with Mayor Sandoval, stopping in at a handful of businesses.  Locals trailed along, waiting for a chance to shake her hand or take a photo.

Again, they love the Gov!  Off to Everett.

Debra C.