PUMPED UP ABOUT PUMP FAILURE


It finally happened. In the wee hours of August 5 2009 the neighborhood well pump stopped pumping water.

Neighbors seemed to take notice the problem almost immediately. At least six calls were put in to Washington Water complaining of no water before 7am. The pump had last been replaced in 1978 putting it about 15 years overdue for replacement. Water was restored to the system by about 2pm that day. It was noted that the old pumps intake screen was clogged which may have contributed to the unwanted debris found in our water over the last several years. The clogged filter may also have put a strain on the pump assisting in the pumps breakdown.


Some statistics of interest: The new pump is 50% more powerful at 3 HP, has a stainless impellor as opposed to plastic and has an output of 40 gallons per minute, the new pump is warranted a full 30 years - 15 more than the old one (the old pump apparently did not know this). The well was found to be 69' 3" deep and had 10 ' of standing water - which is a good supply.


Pictures show; well crane. closeup of old well pump, neighbors and crew gathered at the well.

2009 SWIM YIELDS FASTER TIMES, GREAT FOOD!











Below are the Official Times for the 2009 swim for the "Cold" vos Passage Rough Water Swim" as Recorded by Christy Bortel, the event timekeeper were as follows:



Kids Swim (distance about 200 yards):
Daniel Rees 6:31 Gig Harbor
Rees Parrish 7:06 Charlottesville, VA
Julia Rees 10:48 Gig Harbor

Survivor 1 Mile Swim :
Steve Rees 28:07 Gig Harbor
Tesa Johnson 30:21 Fox Island
Brett Walter 32:47 Olalla
Rondi Thornton 32:54 Albuquerque, NM
Carol Parrish 35:30 Charlottesville, VA
Jim Gates 39:38 Tacoma (no fins) (did 1/2 marathon that morning)
Peter Bortel 40:37 Gig Harbor (Climbed Mt Rainier the day before)
Scott Huntington 43:33 Gig Harbor

If food variety and quality is any indication of success then this was the best passage crossing ever! Additionally, new records were set as surface conditions were optimal and more swimmers opted to use swim fins. This is the first time that the 30 minute mark has been broken for the 1 mile event. 1 mile swimmers are shown in finishing order left to right above.


After the swim we all gathered for a feast of chili, corn bread, fruit salad, cake, flan, and many other delicious dishes!


Thanks to all the neighbors and friends who helped out in the water and on land to make this event safe and enjoyable!

SIDE STORY------------------------------------------------------

The Importance of Being Warm at "The Pit"
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Below is "Team Brower," father and son known for their unparalleled ability to keep the fire warm when family or guests are being entertained at the pit. Todd and father, Al, are pictured here at their special firewood "prep" site at an undisclosed tax free location. The site is where the right wood is chopped into just the right length and shape in order to achieve maximum heat along with another desired outcome; minimal smoke.