Latest News in Tacoma, WA

LIVE UPDATES Severe thunderstorm watch issued for Seattle, Portland

The National Weather Service has issued a severe thunderstorm watch for western Washington and Oregon, warning of potential hazards including hail, lightning, strong winds, and heavy rain. The article details various impacts of the storm, including power outages and a house fire sparked by lightning in Everett. Local transportation services have also been disrupted, with Sound Transit reporting service suspensions due to power outages.

SPS cancels after-school activities due to severe storm threat in WA

Seattle Public Schools (SPS) has canceled all after-school activities due to a forecast of strong to severe thunderstorms expected Wednesday afternoon and evening. The decision, communicated via email to families and staff, prioritizes safety as school buildings will close after 5 p.m. This rare weather event has prompted the district to monitor conditions closely and reschedule affected meetings.

Major housing project comes to University Place

Aviva Crossing, an affordable housing development in University Place, recently held its groundbreaking ceremony, marking a significant step towards providing 129 energy-efficient homes. The project, initiated by the Tacoma Housing Authority and Mercy Housing Northwest, aims to support families facing housing instability while fostering community engagement through various onsite services. This initiative reflects a broader commitment to addressing housing challenges in Pierce County.

Mayor Invitations, Proclamations, and Recognitions

The article covers an upcoming event hosted by the Mayor of Tacoma, Victoria Woodards, focused on invitations, proclamations, and recognitions within the community. Scheduled for March 25, 2025, the event is significant for local business and government relations, highlighting the mayor's engagement with municipal initiatives. This gathering will bring together various stakeholders in the economy and legal services sector.

Major housing project comes to Tacoma

A groundbreaking ceremony for Aviva Crossing, an affordable housing development in Tacoma, took place on March 19, marking a significant step towards providing 129 new, energy-efficient homes. This initiative, led by the Tacoma Housing Authority and Mercy Housing Northwest, aims to support families struggling with housing instability while fostering community engagement and access to educational resources. The project also includes partnerships with local organizations to ensure comprehensive support for residents.

Bush crafted blueprint for healthy forests

The article discusses the Healthy Forests Initiative (HFI) launched by President George W. Bush in 2002 to mitigate wildfire risks through forest management practices. It highlights the ongoing challenges of managing wildfires, the economic implications of megafires, and advocates for revisiting Bush's plan to improve forest health and reduce wildfire risks. The author, Don Brunell, emphasizes the need for balanced forest management amidst increasing economic pressures and environmental concerns.

TAC welcomes sportswriter John McGrath

On April 10, the Tacoma-Pierce Athletic Commission will host a luncheon featuring renowned sportswriter John McGrath at Cheney Stadium. McGrath, who retired in 2018 after a celebrated 40-year career, reflects on his experiences in sports journalism and the challenges he faced after his retirement. His story includes overcoming a serious health scare and a life-altering accident, leading to a renewed appreciation for life's moments.

Sports films make their Tacoma debut

The Tacoma-Pierce County Sports Museum is set to showcase two inspiring sports documentaries at The Grand Cinema, highlighting local legends Doris Brown Heritage and Don James. "LAST LAP" chronicles Heritage's groundbreaking achievements in distance running, while "The Dawgfather" explores Coach James' transformative impact on football and mentorship. Both films celebrate the legacies of these influential figures in the local sports community.

Bush crafted blueprint for healthy forests

The article discusses President George W. Bush's Healthy Forests Initiative (HFI), launched in 2002 to reduce wildfire risks by managing forest health. Despite initial support, the initiative faced significant opposition and bureaucratic hurdles, limiting its effectiveness. The article suggests that revisiting this plan could address the growing wildfire crisis exacerbated by climate change.

Economic Development Strategic Plan 2020 - 2025

The Economic Development Strategic Plan 2020-2025 is set to launch in Tacoma, Washington, focusing on enhancing workforce development and supporting small businesses. This initiative, backed by various local institutions like the University of Washington Tacoma and Tacoma Public Schools, aims to strengthen the local economy and promote entrepreneurship. The plan highlights strategic collaboration among government entities, educational institutions, and community organizations.