Your trusted source for local Tacoma, WA news, updated daily with the most important stories from your community.
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.
A new indoor play area, Kidsville Play Cafe, has opened in Puyallup, offering themed rooms for children aged 0-6, including a dinosaur area and a princess tea party space. The facility, designed by local parents Gayane and Andy Herman, aims to provide a safe and engaging environment for kids while allowing parents to enjoy a café space. Admission is set at $13.50, with plans for additional food options and language development programs.
A recent dock fire in Gig Harbor, Washington, may have been linked to a diesel fuel heater, resulting in significant damage to multiple boats, including those of residents Gerry Gross and Kristina LaVair. The Pierce County Fire Marshal is conducting a thorough investigation, with assistance from insurance companies and the U.S. Coast Guard, as the community rallies to support affected boat owners through fundraising efforts.
A recent Wallethub study ranks Washington state among the five worst states for retirement, primarily due to its high cost of living and unfavorable economic environment for retirees. Despite its natural beauty and cultural activities, Washington struggles with affordability metrics, making it challenging for seniors on fixed incomes. The study highlights the importance of low taxes and accessible healthcare for a comfortable retirement.
Major warehouse and industrial projects in Pierce County are reshaping the local economy, with developments ranging from manufacturing centers to distribution complexes. While these projects promise economic growth and job creation, they also raise environmental concerns, particularly regarding a proposed warehouse near Sequalitchew Creek Trail.
Kenmore Air and the Puyallup Tribe of Indians are launching a seasonal seaplane service from Tacoma to Victoria, British Columbia, beginning May 15, 2025. The flights will provide South Sound residents with a scenic and efficient travel option, with prices starting at $199 per person. This expansion signifies the growing international presence of the Puyallup Tribe and enhances connectivity within the Pacific Northwest.
Former NBA star Shawn Kemp faces a lawsuit from Dajuan Jackson, a passenger in a vehicle he allegedly shot at during a March 2023 incident in Tacoma. Jackson claims emotional distress due to Kemp's actions, which included firing a .357-caliber revolver at his vehicle without provocation. The lawsuit highlights Kemp's ongoing criminal case, where he has pleaded not guilty to first-degree assault.
The Landlord-Tenant Program event in Tacoma, Washington, scheduled for February 1, 2025, addresses significant issues related to landlord-tenant relationships and financial reform in the real estate industry. With a focus on human rights and business banking, this event is crucial for local residents and stakeholders affected by ongoing economic changes.
Applications for the 2025-2026 Tacoma Creates funding are now open, offering vital financial support for local nonprofit organizations focused on culture and cultural heritage in Tacoma. The initiative encourages innovative projects that contribute to the community, fostering education and cultural development. Interested applicants can find more details on the City of Tacoma's official website.