Gig Harbor Man Makes Good Health His Business

Battle with cancer gives owner new perspective on life

GIG HARBOR (Tuesday, July 03, 2007) - When Gig Harbor resident John Calliham was diagnosed with cancer, his perspective on life turned down a different road. A student at Washington State University, Calliham dropped out to focus on his health and recovery. A nutrition-conscious 20-something, Calliham had been a loyal customer to a local smoothie shop, Emerald City Smoothies, which focused on providing customers with fresh, quality foods and high-end nutrition supplements. Little did he know, his journeys would eventually lead him right back to where he started — as co-owner and operator of three Emerald City stores. "I'm grateful for every day now," Calliham said. "That experience entirely changed the direction of my life." Calliham's smoothie story began shortly after overcoming his cancer. Unsure what step to take next, he decided to join forces with his childhood friend to purchase the stores, two of which would be built in his hometown of Gig Harbor. "The whole thing has been an amazing learning process," he said. After months of planning and work, Calliham was finally able to watch his dream come to fruition. His first store, located in Lakewood, opened for business. "We were supposed to open earlier, but then we found out during the inspections that our paper towel dispenser was installed 4 inches too high," he said. Despite the small setback, the energetic entrepreneur said he is happy to be doing something he loves. "I love these smoothies. I must have had 100 Coconut Passions before I tried any of the other flavors," he joked. As part of the Emerald City Smoothie standard of excellence, all drinks served are made fresh to order with whole, fresh fruit — allowing them to avoid the high-sugar content that other juice-based products often have. "It's a product you feel good about serving," Calliham said. Whey, soy, protein and supplement options, he said, are all part of helping customers fulfill their nutritional goals. "We don't hide what is in them," he said. "They're made right in front of you and nutrition information is listed right on the menu." Two additional stores are in the plans for Gig Harbor but are on hold until site construction is complete. Once opened, however, customers can expect to find a Starbucks-like experience, complete with oversized leather chairs, free Wi-Fi internet access and 36-inch plasma TVs. "We're hoping to have them opened by December," Calliham said. Additional information on the Emerald City Smoothie chain and the Gig Harbor business locations can be found at www.emeraldcitysmoothie.com.

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