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You've spent all spring working out in the gym, trying to stay in shape enough to hike, bike and kayak as soon as weather permits. And now that summer is finally here, you're ready to put your body to the test. So, where do you head to first? Climb Tacoma, that's
Online Newspapers
Sometimes the very thought of joining a tour group evokes visions of people in Hawaiian shirts, Bermuda shorts, and socks with sandals. I myself am often a quick "no thank you" when the suggestion arises. However, Pretty Gritty Tours in Tacoma has changed how I view a tour through historical
Outdoors
As a newbie to the Gritty City, the story of Johnny Meaker gradually unfolded for me. It began with a visit to a hole-in-the-wall burger dive and my comments on the great seasoning sprinkled on the fries. The short-order cook waxed poetically about Johnny's seasoning, a local concoction which brings
Outdoors
It's hard to envision now, but there was a time when the terms like "quaint," "chic" and "trendy" would not have been used by visitors to Tacoma's Sixth Avenue. Over the decades, "the Ave" has gone through many different phases, from its very early days as a genteel and proper business
Features
The Thurston Chamber Foundation's 8th Annual Olympia Brew Fest is fast approaching and goes down Aug. 3, 1-8:30 p.m. This summer hops and malts fueled celebration features over 30 handpicked Northwest breweries hauling in over 60 sippers. Tickets are $25 in advance, and $30 day of, and include a commemorative
Reviews
ANNOUNCER: The McKinley Hill Neighborhood of Tacoma is a hidden gem just across the freeway from the bustling downtown. Known more for its eclectic residents and quaint shops, it hasn't traditionally been the "go-to" for dining in town. However, Dusty's Hideaway has converted a house into what they hope to
Arts
There are certain characteristics shared by most if not all juried art exhibitions that are particularly noticeable at top-quality shows such as those held annually at South Puget Sound Community College and Tacoma Community College where many of the same artists show up every year. Such shows have a plethora
News Front
Air Force Reserve citizen airmen are selected every year to attend Developmental Education courses boarded through the Reserve School Selection Board (RSSB A&B), Reserve Developmental Education Designation Board (RDEDB), and Enlisted Developmental Education Board (EDEB). The boards are held quarterly over a five-day period at HQ Air Reserve Personnel Center, Buckley
News Front
Air Force officials have selected the service's top enlisted members, naming the 12 Outstanding Airmen of the Year for 2019. An Air Force selection board at the Air Force's Personnel Center considered 36 nominees who represented major commands, direct reporting units, field operating agencies and Headquarters Air Force. The board selected
Travel
At just under two hours by car along winding highways through rural country and forest scenery, Port Townsend is an easy access gateway from Tacoma. Either the quaint, Victorian-era town or nearby Fort Worden State Historic Park make a great base for further exploring the Olympic Peninsula. Camp out at the
Military Life
When illness and injury strike a loved one, there is nothing like having a personal champion through the challenges that arise. That is the role Master Sgt. Jimmie Overstreet plays for families whose active-duty servicemember needs to take advantage of the Department of Veterans Affairs Polytrauma System of Care. Take Spc.
Military Life
Back-to-School shopping season is upon us and the Army & Air Force Exchange Service (AAFES) is helping military families stay on budget by expanding its layaway program to include computers, tablets and more July 1-Aug. 31. Layaway is a purchasing option that allows you to place a deposit on an item
Military Life
Stress abounds for former high schoolers as they prepare for college endeavors and begin to make the transition into adulthood. Parents have their hands (and hearts) full as well, making plans for their beloved offspring to flee the nest in pursuit of higher education. Though parting is such sweet sorrow,
News Front
Dr. Mark T. Esper became the 27th defense secretary Tuesday during an early evening White House swearing-in ceremony. Earlier in the day, by a 90-8 vote, the U.S. Senate confirmed Esper to serve in the office. Esper officially became the defense secretary when the President signed the appointment paperwork preceding the formal
News Front
The Army plans to add even more firepower to its arsenal of medium tactical vehicles. The service has been working with the Navy to develop a 100-kilowatt laser weapon, known as a High Energy Laser Tactical Vehicle Demonstrator, to provide air and missile defense to forward-operating locations and airfields, said Lt.
Military Life
Christian Ashford, a member of the Hillside Youth Center, Boys and Girls Clubs of America (BGCA) at Joint Base Lewis-McChord (JBLM), is the 2019 Pacific Region and WA State Military Youth of the Year. He will serve as a Military Youth Ambassador for the Washington state Boys and Girls Clubs
News Front
The Washington Air National Guard wants you -- or someone you know -- to seriously consider enlisting. "The WA ANG offers the opportunity for anyone interested in investing in themselves through a commitment to service in our communities, our state and our nation through career-driven training and hands-on experience," said Senior
News Front
The Department of Defense delayed the implementation of a policy that would limit a servicemember's ability to share education benefits with family members. The policy, originally slated to take effect July 12, will discontinue the transfer benefit for members with 16 years or more of service. The implementation has been delayed until
Military Life
Joint Base Lewis-McChord is home to many native species including coyotes, raccoons and black bears. As Washington's human population expands into their traditional habitats, these creatures may cause problems and can be dangerous to both humans and domesticated animals. The top three reasons for conflict between humans and wildlife are: trash,
Archives
My boss, Pappi Swarner, is on vacation this week. After the short coronation ceremony where I was dubbed acting editor, he asked me to write a story about Jones Family Fortune. He handed me a press release, gave me a broad smile, a sincere thanks, and then turned on a
