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This week's events in Gig Harbor offer a rich tapestry of learning opportunities, including a performance of African American folktales and an educational talk about octopuses. Additionally, a unique presentation on bizarre museum artifacts and a poetry reading by artist Sabreenha Essien enhance the cultural landscape of the community. Engaging activities like pottery painting and Drag Bingo further promote local arts and entertainment.
Naval Hospital Bremerton is transferring nearly 700 patients into the civilian health system due to a shortage of physicians at its Internal Medicine Clinic, which has been operating with only one provider for over three months. This decision follows a series of cutbacks at the hospital, raising concerns about capacity challenges in the already stressed Kitsap County healthcare system.
An international research partnership led by the Abdul Latif Jameel Poverty Action Lab (J-PAL) will evaluate two innovative programs in Pierce County to enhance treatment for opioid use disorders. The study will assess a mobile outreach initiative and the impact of extended detox stays on recovery outcomes, addressing a critical health crisis in the region.
An online auction featuring historic gear from the Western Flyer, once chartered by John Steinbeck, ended in disappointment as no bids were placed on four key items. Despite past appraisals valuing the collection at over $75,000, the auction highlighted a declining interest in maritime artifacts, leaving the owner and agent without a payday.
Gig Harbor Tides triumphed over Todd Beamer in a thrilling double-overtime showdown, winning 70-65 in their Class 3A District 3/4 basketball opener. Michael Masini led the charge with 28 points and 17 rebounds, setting a new single-season record for the team. The Tides now advance to a crucial winner-to-state game against Bellarmine on February 14.
Volunteers in Pierce County, led by Delci Whited, are conducting the Point-in-Time Count to assess the homeless population in the Gig Harbor-Key Peninsula area, where many live in solitude among dense woods and abandoned structures. Despite their efforts, the count is likely an underrepresentation of the actual number of unhoused individuals, as many remain hidden from outreach initiatives. The article highlights the challenges faced in accurately counting and assisting this vulnerable demographic.
Gig Harbor Police cited a 52-year-old man for obstructing an investigation after he presented a homemade license during a traffic stop. The incident, which occurred on February 8, involved the man refusing to exit his vehicle and providing fraudulent documentation, leading to a citation and a failed booking attempt. Additionally, a break-in at Round Table Pizza and a shoplifting incident at Target are detailed in the report.
The Gig Harbor City Council has updated its building permit processing timelines to align with new state legislation, establishing specific timeframes for various permits. The council also approved a relocation assistance policy for new employees moving to the city, providing up to $5,000 in reimbursements. These decisions reflect the city's commitment to compliance and support for its workforce.
Rick Bleiweiss, a former music industry executive, has made Gig Harbor his new home, pursuing his passions for writing and music after relocating with his wife. Not only has he published a successful novella at 77, but he has also been actively involved in promoting authors and producing music since his move to Heron’s Key. His remarkable career spans significant achievements in both the music and publishing industries, making his story a notable addition to the local community.
Gig Harbor High School students in Eric Wolgemuth's astrophysics class have captured breathtaking images of deep-space nebulae, including the North American Nebula and the Crescent Nebula, using a $7,500 telescope. Through an independent study, these students engaged in hands-on astrophotography, learning to layer images based on specific wavelengths of light to reveal the composition of these celestial objects.