Your trusted source for local Gig Harbor, WA news, updated daily with the most important stories from your community.
The Gig Harbor boys basketball team clinched a district playoff spot with a 62-52 victory over North Thurston, led by Michael Masini's 25 points. Senior guard Cole Browne made history by becoming the program's all-time leader in wins, contributing significantly to the team's success as they prepare for the upcoming playoffs.
A driver performing doughnuts in a red Ford Mustang in Gig Harbor crashed into a light pole, leading to significant damage and power outages at a nearby gas station. The 32-year-old driver was arrested on suspicion of DUI after police located the vehicle shortly after the incident. In a separate incident, a police chase ensued involving a stolen U-Haul, which was ultimately not apprehended.
James "Jim" Milgard, a prominent Gig Harbor resident and window manufacturing pioneer, passed away at 84. As a philanthropist, he significantly contributed to local health and education initiatives, including the Milgard Medical Pavilion and the Milgard School of Business at the University of Washington-Tacoma.
An assault incident following a girls basketball game at Gig Harbor High School is under investigation by local police, with no injuries reported and no students involved. Additionally, a robbery suspect who was likely experiencing a mental health crisis was arrested, highlighting ongoing issues with crime and mental health in the community. The Peninsula School District is reviewing security protocols to prevent similar incidents at school events.
The Key Peninsula Fire Department is moving forward with plans to sell the "Calahan property" in Key Center, previously intended for a medical clinic, after community disputes and budget cuts. The decision comes amidst ongoing discussions about the department's future facilities and staffing levels, following the failure of a recent maintenance and operations levy. A town hall meeting is scheduled for March 8 to discuss the capital facilities plan with local residents.
Peninsula School District is exploring the possibility of building a new stadium for its annual Fish Bowl football game, which has outgrown the current venue at Roy Anderson Field. School board members emphasize the need for updated facilities to enhance community engagement and support local youth sports, highlighting the challenges of funding and land acquisition. The initiative is still in the discussion phase, without public plans or taxpayer funding requests yet announced.
State Senator Deb Krishnadasan, appointed to Washington's 26th Legislative District, is leveraging her experience in school bond campaigns to address educational funding. With a $10 billion state deficit looming, she faces the challenge of balancing legislative duties while preparing for upcoming elections, including a special election in November 2025. Her pragmatic approach and coalition-building skills are seen as crucial for navigating the politically diverse district.
Emily Stone has been sworn in as the new city council member for Gig Harbor, filling the vacancy left by Brenda Lykins. With a background as a senior policy advisor and a commitment to addressing local issues like affordable housing and economic development, Stone aims to preserve the city's unique character while fostering growth.
Chowderfest is returning to Gig Harbor on March 8, featuring 11 local restaurants serving a variety of chowder dishes, including a new trivia card collection challenge for attendees. The event, hosted by The Gig Harbor Waterfront Alliance, celebrates the city's maritime heritage and promises to attract food lovers with its culinary offerings and drink specials. Tickets went on sale on January 27 and sold out quickly last year.
Homeowners in Pierce County are facing increased scrutiny in home insurance renewals due to rising wildfire risks, as exemplified by LeeAnn Cooper's nonrenewal notice from Progressive. This trend reflects broader challenges in the Western U.S. insurance market, particularly influenced by catastrophic events like the recent wildfires in Southern California. Experts highlight the use of advanced catastrophe modeling by insurers to assess risks and make policy decisions.