Ham radio operators could be key communications link in case of emergency
Nov 13, 2024An earthquake or a major storm could knock out traditional communications methods. That’s where local ham radio operators come in.
D-Day anniversary honored at annual Veterans Day celebration
Nov 11, 2024The D-Day invasion’s role in changing the course of World War II was the focus of this year’s Veterans Day celebration at the Gig Harbor Aero Museum. June marked the 80th anniversary of D-Day, the Allied invasion of Normandy during World War II. Speakers at the celebration gave detailed information about the significance of D-Day, known
Peninsula High teacher balances art and science
Oct 29, 2024Peninsula High school science teacher by day, performing artist in her off time, Ashley Ortenzo is one of dozens who will “fling joy” in the Puget Sound Midwinter Revels show in December. Ortenzo has been a science teacher for 24 years and lives in Gig Harbor, but it’s her first year at Peninsula High School.
R.A.D. self-defense classes helps women ‘establish their power and control’
Oct 24, 2024Some of the women who recently finished a R.A.D. (Rape, Aggression, Defense) self-defense training program in Gig Harbor have experienced some type of assault. One of them, who wished to remain anonymous, said that although she is an athlete, she wanted to take the class to learn how to protect herself. “I’m in therapy for
Relief Beds, a Pierce County nonprofit, helps people without a home find rest
Oct 10, 2024The nonprofit founded by Gig Harbor native Scott Smalling hosts two showings of a new documentary next week as a fundraiser.
Volunteering is in Larry Bleich’s blood
Oct 07, 2024Larry Bleich of Gig Harbor, who organized the Battle of the Badges and other blood drives, recently received the Red Cross’s highest honor.
New option at St. Anthony can help patients undergoing chemotherapy keep their hair
Oct 02, 2024St. Anthony Hospital has a new option for chemotherapy patients who are approved to use cold capping during their treatment, which reduces the alopecia side effect of the drugs. Two months ago the hospital received its first cold capping machine, which is available to patients of the outpatient clinic who choose to use it. “The
Wingnut Metal Works makes fine art from spare parts
Sep 26, 2024Repurposing old, rusted metal into art that is both functional and decorative has been a hobby for Ray Swift since his high school days. Recently, Swift launched a business, Wingnut Metal Works, from his shop at his home on Raft Island. He learned to weld while working for a sculpture professor at Pacific Lutheran University
PenMet celebrates opening of revamped Rosedale Hall
Sep 18, 2024An afternoon mist began to turn to light rain just as a ribbon cutting ceremony wrapped up Tuesday evening to officially celebrate the extensive renovation of the nearly 100-year-old Rosedale Hall. About 40 community members gathered in the parking lot to listen as Pen Met Parks commissioners and staff spoke on the importance of preserving
During Childhood Cancer Awareness Month, locals share their stories and knowledge
Sep 16, 2024Childhood cancer is rare. But Karen Caywood of Gig Harbor knows that it doesn’t seem that way when a doctor informs a parent their child has been diagnosed. “Once you’re told that your child has childhood cancer, it’s not rare anymore. It’s infuriating, and feels so dismissive to be told that it’s rare,” she said.