Your trusted source for local Tacoma, WA news, updated daily with the most important stories from your community.
Major warehouse projects are emerging across Pierce County, Washington, signaling significant economic growth and development in the Tacoma region. These developments have sparked mixed reactions from the community, particularly regarding environmental concerns tied to projects near natural habitats. As the local economy evolves, the balance between economic growth and environmental preservation remains a critical topic of discussion.
Senate Republican Leader John Braun has proposed a bill to transform The Evergreen State College into a University of Washington Health Sciences Campus by July 1, 2026, in response to a growing healthcare workforce shortage in Washington state. While Braun acknowledges Evergreen's historical significance, he argues that its declining enrollment necessitates this change to better serve the community's healthcare needs.
Ex-NBA star Shawn Kemp is facing a lawsuit from Dajuan Jackson, an incarcerated man, for emotional distress stemming from a shooting incident at Tacoma Mall in March 2023. The lawsuit claims Kemp shot at Jackson's vehicle without warning, leading to damages for personal injuries and loss of enjoyment of life. Kemp has pleaded not guilty to first-degree assault related to the incident, which is still ongoing in court.
Kenmore Air and the Puyallup Tribe of Indians are launching a new seasonal seaplane service from Tacoma to Victoria, British Columbia, starting May 15, 2025. The service aims to connect local residents with scenic travel options in the Pacific Northwest, offering direct flights to both Victoria and the San Juan Islands. This partnership reflects the tribe's commitment to expanding travel accessibility in the region.
A Seattle man, claiming to be a bounty hunter, sparked controversy in Sunnyside, WA, by falsely alleging that U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) would pay private trackers to detain undocumented immigrants. Local officials swiftly debunked these claims, emphasizing that there are no bounty hunters affiliated with ICE and that local law enforcement does not engage in immigration enforcement. The incident highlights ongoing tensions and fears within the Latino community amid heightened immigration enforcement actions.
Washington state lawmakers are considering a bill proposed by Senate Republican Leader John Braun that would abolish The Evergreen State College and convert it into a University of Washington Health Sciences Campus by July 1, 2026. The legislation aims to address the growing healthcare workforce shortage in the state while adapting educational resources to current population needs.
A new indoor play area, Kidsville Play Cafe, has opened in Puyallup, featuring seven themed rooms for children aged 0-6, including a dinosaur room and a princess tea party area. Co-founded by Gayane Herman and her family, the cafe aims to provide a community space for families, offering snacks and plans for additional food and drink options. With a focus on developmental play and bilingual storytimes, Kidsville addresses a community need for engaging activities during colder months.
Tacoma residents should prepare for potential snow this weekend, with an 84% chance of accumulating at least an inch from early Sunday to Monday. The National Weather Service warns that freezing temperatures will follow, increasing the risk of slick roads for commuters next week. Meteorologist Harrison Rademacher emphasizes the need for caution as conditions may vary widely across the region.
Kidsville Play Cafe has opened near Puyallup, featuring a vibrant atmosphere with dinosaurs, princesses, and a jungle gym room designed for children's entertainment. This new establishment aims to provide a family-friendly environment that fosters creativity and play. Its launch is a positive addition to the local community, enhancing recreational options for families in the area.
A Seattle man, Martin Alvarado, sparked controversy in Sunnyside, WA, by falsely claiming at a press conference that U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) would pay private bounty hunters to detain undocumented immigrants. Local officials quickly refuted his claims, emphasizing that ICE does not utilize bounty hunters and that local law enforcement does not cooperate with ICE on immigration matters. The incident reflects heightened fears within the Latino community amid ongoing immigration enforcement actions.