Your trusted source for local Tacoma, WA news, updated daily with the most important stories from your community.
College Appreciation Week in Puyallup celebrates the contributions of local colleges, Pierce College and Washington State University Puyallup Research and Extension Center. The event features an open house for prospective students, showcasing the colleges' resources and community impact. Both institutions play a crucial role in driving economic and educational growth in the region.
Lucha Libre Volcánica, a unique wrestling school in Tacoma, offers a rich cultural experience through its focus on Mexican wrestling, Lucha Libre. Led by veteran Luchador José Luis Gómez, the school not only trains aspiring wrestlers but also hosts events that foster community engagement. The article highlights the vibrant local wrestling scene, showcasing the talents of various Luchadores and their ambitions in the sport.
Two teenage suspects appeared in a Tacoma court charged with the murder of 18-year-old Messiah Washington, who was shot in an elevator at his apartment complex. Washington's father described the tragedy, emphasizing the emotional toll of losing his son. One suspect remains at large, while the other, Kaleb Whiteside, faces adult charges despite being a minor, raising concerns about justice for victims of youth violence.
Sionna Stallings-Ala’ilima was sworn in as Tacoma's official fire chief on April 1, marking a historic moment as the first Samoan American and the second woman to hold the position. Her appointment was celebrated by a supportive community, including former Chief Toryono Green, who mentored her throughout her career. Stallings-Ala’ilima expressed deep gratitude to her family and community, promising to uphold their trust in her leadership.
The Tacoma Rainiers fell to the Reno Aces 13-8 in a high-scoring game at Greater Nevada Field, despite a standout performance from Dominic Canzone, who hit two home runs. Reno's explosive third inning, where they scored seven runs, proved pivotal in securing their victory. The game featured a season-high 13 hits from Tacoma, showcasing their offensive potential despite the loss.
The article highlights the annual Easter event hosted by Highlands Golf Course in Tacoma, expected to draw around 300 attendees. Organizers Jack and Angela Connelly aim to foster community connections through festive activities, including egg hunts for various age groups and a visit from the Easter Bunny. The event, now in its fourth year, showcases the course's commitment to family-friendly gatherings.
A signature gathering campaign is underway in Tacoma to place a Workers Bill of Rights initiative on the November ballot, aiming to raise the minimum wage to $20 an hour and enhance workers' rights and safety. Supported by UFCW Local 367 and the Democratic Socialists of America, the initiative outlines specific wage increases for different business sizes and mandates fair scheduling practices. The push for these reforms follows contract negotiations that highlighted significant worker concerns regarding hours and safety.
The U.S. Navy is set to debut its innovative "Strike Group" mixed-reality experience at the Washington State Spring Fair in Puyallup on April 12-13. This immersive program aims to showcase Navy STEM careers through interactive challenges that highlight teamwork and advanced technology. Rear Admiral James P. Waters emphasizes the life-changing opportunities available through Navy careers, making this event both engaging and informative for attendees.
The Pierce County Council has confirmed Robin Vasquez as the new Director of the Human Resources Department, marking a significant appointment in County Executive Ryan Mello's administration. Vasquez's extensive experience and collaborative approach were highlighted by Council Chair Jani Hitchen during the confirmation process. This appointment sets the stage for further confirmations in the coming months.
The families of two victims from the 2019 Ethiopian crash of a Boeing 737 Max 8 reached confidential settlements just before a scheduled trial in Chicago. Tacoma attorney Mark Lindquist, representing one of the families, expressed hope for Boeing to regain its reputation for engineering excellence. The settlements come amid ongoing legal challenges for Boeing, including a pending criminal case by the U.S. Department of Justice.