Your trusted source for local Tacoma, WA news, updated daily with the most important stories from your community.
Tacoma City Council Member Joe Bushnell will take on a pivotal role as chairperson of the National Economic Development Council, emphasizing community engagement through initiatives like the Cool School Challenge. This personnel change is expected to influence local governance and economic strategies, particularly impacting Tacoma and Pierce County.
Pierce County Human Services is actively seeking proposals for the State Right of Way - Encampment Resolution Program (ROW-ERP), with $1.5 million in state funds available to help transition homeless households into stable housing. This initiative prioritizes capital projects aimed at acquiring property or rehabilitating structures for overnight shelter, highlighting the county's commitment to addressing homelessness effectively. Proposals must be submitted by February 26, 2025, emphasizing the urgency of this critical issue.
Chucky, a 3-year-old Pit Bull Terrier mix, is highlighted as the Pet of the Week by the Humane Society for Tacoma & Pierce County. With a playful personality and compatibility with other dogs, Chucky is ready to bring joy to his new home. The article emphasizes the shelter's commitment to animal welfare, including various community programs and resources.
The article discusses the urgent need to ban menthol cigarettes, particularly focusing on their detrimental impact on Black and marginalized communities. Jonathan Johnson, Immediate Past President of the Tacoma NAACP, shares personal experiences and highlights the tobacco industry's predatory marketing tactics that have led to higher smoking rates in these communities. The piece emphasizes the importance of collective action against these harmful practices to save lives.
The Asia Pacific Cultural Center's 27th Annual Lunar New Year Celebration in Tacoma showcased India's rich cultural heritage, fostering unity among diverse communities. With heartfelt messages from local officials and vibrant performances, the event emphasized the importance of cultural representation and collaboration in the region.
Carla Santorno has been appointed to the Tacoma Park Board to fill the vacancy left by Tim Reid, who passed away in December. With extensive experience as the former superintendent of Tacoma Public Schools, Santorno aims to foster partnerships that benefit local families. She will be ceremoniously sworn in on February 24, 2025, and may run for election at the end of her term.
Local seniors experienced a heartwarming Valentine's Day celebration as volunteers from Tacoma Public Utilities and Lutheran Community Services Northwest delivered cupcakes and handmade cards to brighten their day. The initiative, part of the Santa for Seniors program, aimed to connect with elders who may lack family support, showcasing the community's commitment to its senior citizens. This year's event featured delicious treats from Spilled Butter Desserts, a woman-owned bakery in Tacoma.
The groundbreaking ceremony for the new Lowell Elementary School is scheduled for March 5, 2025, inviting parents and the community to participate in this significant event. Funded by a $535 million school construction bond passed in 2020, the new facility will accommodate approximately 500 students and includes various improvements such as parking and playgrounds.
The Tacoma-Pierce Athletic Commission has announced the opening of applications for two scholarships aimed at high school and college students in Pierce County. These scholarships, named after notable figures in Tacoma's sports and civic community, are designed to support students pursuing careers in journalism, sports broadcasting, and community service. Winners will be recognized at the upcoming "Salute to Sports" event on June 12.
Rebuilding Hope Sexual Assault Center has expanded its services with a newly renovated healing center in Tacoma's Hilltop neighborhood, nearly doubling its capacity to support survivors of sexual assault. The center's open house on February 19 will showcase enhanced accessibility and additional resources, including a future wellness center and healing garden, as part of its ongoing Healing Headquarters Campaign.