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Go back to the future at RADwood
Griot's Garage will host RADwood on July 19, celebrating '80s and '90s culture with a car show from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. The event invites all makes and models from those decades, featuring a DJ, food trucks, and a screening of "Back to the Future." Kids under 12 can attend for free, and awards will be given for standout vehicles and costumes.
Explore the world at MOSAIC
Tacoma's MOSAIC: Arts & Culture Festival will showcase international music, dance, and food on July 26-27 at Wright Park. The event honors 36 years of cultural diversity, featuring performances from various countries and a sensory-friendly space for visitors.
Coordinated Care prioritizes youth wellness
Coordinated Care hosted the second annual "Strong Youth Strong Communities" summit at Lumen Field, attracting over 400 youth to discuss mental health and resilience. The event featured Seattle Seahawks legends who shared personal stories and strategies for overcoming challenges. This initiative underscores Coordinated Care's commitment to improving youth mental wellness through community partnerships.
Art on the Ave turns 25 this year
Tacoma's Art on the Ave festival celebrates its 25th anniversary on July 20, showcasing over 230 vendors and multiple live music stages. The event promotes local businesses and culture, featuring food trucks, art exhibitions, and activities for all ages. New this year is a special Indigenous-centered section presented by the La Paloma Project.
Proclamation celebrates County parks, trails
Pierce County declared July 2025 as Park and Recreation Appreciation Month, honoring a tradition established by the U.S. House of Representatives in 2009. The theme "Build Together, Play Together" emphasizes community collaboration in creating and maintaining parks, with events planned to promote outdoor activities. Trail Days will take place from July 25 to July 27, encouraging residents to explore local trails.
Women invited to rise in dominion
City of Faith Christian Center’s women’s RISE Conference returns on July 26, 2025, with the theme "Rising in Dominion." First Lady Verndella Rogers emphasizes the importance of empowering women through fellowship and self-care, featuring activities like raffles and messages of faith. The event invites women of all ages to focus on their well-being and spiritual growth.
City updates Climate Action Plan
Tacoma City Council approved the 2025 Climate Action Plan Update on July 8, aiming to enhance community resilience against climate change. The update serves as a roadmap for city investments and initiatives to improve infrastructure, local economy, and public health. Council member Kristina Walker emphasized the urgency of addressing climate impacts, citing examples from other cities facing severe consequences.
From Steamboat Willie to Music Producer
Tacoma artist Tryfe, known for his vibrant Disney-inspired artwork, credits his supportive family for nurturing his creative talents. Starting from a challenging childhood in Chicago, he evolved from an expelled student to a successful illustrator and music producer. His work reflects a deep homage to his mother's love for Disney, blending art and music in unique ways.
Bundok Books brings inclusivity to Puyallup
Bundok Books opened in Puyallup, bringing a unique independent bookstore experience to the community. The grand opening, themed "Christmas in July," features author signings and events, celebrating inclusivity and diverse literary voices. Owners Sascha and Gem Schaudies aim to provide a welcoming space for underrepresented communities.
Study assesses solar potential at county sites
Pierce County received $2.46 million in grants from Washington's Clean Energy Program to enhance sustainability through solar energy projects. The Facilities Management department will study solar feasibility at county facilities, while Planning and Public Works will construct a solar project on the closed Purdy Landfill. These initiatives aim to benefit the Key Peninsula community and reduce environmental impact.
Jungle Fever Exotics marks 30 years
Jungle Fever Exotics, a plant nursery in Tacoma, celebrates 30 years of business, offering a diverse range of unique plants. Owner Jerry Cearley highlights the challenges of maintaining a local nursery amid increasing online competition. The nursery serves as a tranquil escape for visitors seeking solace and inspiration in nature.
Free app combines adventure, nature and history
Families can explore Tacoma Parks this summer using the free Agents of Discovery app, which combines outdoor adventure with learning about local history and ecosystems. From July 1 to August 31, participants can engage in activities and win prizes at various parks. The app supports multiple languages and requires no data once missions are downloaded.
Tacoma fire displaces 2 south sound families
A house fire in Tacoma displaced two families after flames spread to a neighboring home. Fortunately, no injuries were reported. Authorities are investigating the cause of the fire.
Deadline coming for grant applications
The City of Puyallup invites applications for its 2026 Lodging Tax Funding and Community Funding Grant programs, with a deadline set for July 15. A total of $713,390 is allocated for Lodging Tax funding, while $180,000 is available from the General Fund for community grants. Successful applicants must report on the impact of their funding on travel and community services.
City warns of phone scam
The City of Puyallup warns residents about a phone scam targeting Pierce County cell phone users. Fraudulent text messages threaten license suspension unless payments are made, but the Court does not send such communications. Officials advise recipients to ignore these messages and report them to authorities.
Ready for school on day one
Tacoma families preparing for back-to-school events can access essential items at the Kids Health and Safety Fair on August 23. The fair will provide 60 free bicycles to students, alongside school supplies, hygiene items, and health services. The event aims to support children in being ready for school from day one.
Summer Late Nights recognized nationally
Pierce County received a 2025 Achievement Award from the National Association of Counties for its Summer Late Nights program, which recorded nearly 16,000 visits in 2024. The program, aimed at providing safe spaces for youth, has received $1 million in funding to continue its expansion.
Labrada launches grand slam in win over Salt Lake
The Tacoma Rainiers defeated the Salt Lake Bees 15-2 on July 6, 2025, securing their 11th win of the season against Salt Lake. Victor Labrada hit a grand slam, marking his first Triple-A home run, as Tacoma scored 14 unanswered runs after initially trailing. Jhonathan Diaz earned the win, allowing only two runs in five innings.
Rainiers secure series with 9-7 win over Salt Lake
The Tacoma Rainiers defeated the Salt Lake Bees 9-7 on July 5, 2025, clinching the series with a season record of 10-1 against Salt Lake. Tyler Locklear's solo home run and Leo Rivas' ongoing hitting streak were key highlights in Tacoma's victory. The win marked the Rainiers' seventh series win of the year.
County extends opioid detox program
Pierce County Human Services awarded $1.3 million to the Metropolitan Development Council to extend opioid detox stays from six to ten days. This initiative aims to improve recovery outcomes amid a rising opioid crisis, which saw 423 accidental overdose deaths in 2024, over 70% involving opioids.
Major gift ensures Loggers future
Richard N. Laurance, a 1974 graduate of the University of Puget Sound, donated $1,050,000 to support the school's rowing program. The endowment aims to sustain over 60 years of competitive rowing and inspire future alumni contributions. UPS President Isiaah Crawford expressed gratitude for the gift, emphasizing its role in fostering a championship culture for student-athletes.
Puyallup Concerts in the Park is back
Puyallup's Concert in the Park series returns with free weekly concerts starting July 17 at Pioneer Park. The lineup features local bands, including Slim Wizzy and a Beatles tribute band, offering a variety of musical genres. Attendees are encouraged to bring non-perishable food items for donation to the Puyallup Food Bank.
Legislative wins and losses for Tacoma
Tacoma's city council reviewed the 2025 legislative session, highlighting challenges amid a $15 billion budget shortfall. While the city sought funding for homelessness and transportation, key requests, including a property tax cap removal, were not pursued by lawmakers. The Fishing Wars Memorial Bridge remains closed without allocated funding for repairs.
Pipeline Trail opens with ribbon cutting
Tacoma and Pierce County officials celebrated the opening of a new 1.6-mile segment of the Pipeline Trail on June 28, extending the trail to 5.8 miles. The project enhances regional connectivity for outdoor recreation and includes community activities at Orangegate Park.