Tacoma Sister Cities program awarded exchange funding

The City of Tacoma is one of seven U.S. cities selected by Sister Cities International to receive the Leading Asia: Renewing the U.S. and Japan Sister Cities Network exchange funding. The funding will enable a 10-day Tacoma delegation visit to our Japanese sister city, Kitakyushu.

New one-stop website for business community

If you are looking to start, grow or locate a business in Tacoma, check out www.tacomameansbusiness.com – the City’s new business resource website. Tacomameansbusiness.com provides up-to-date business information as well as free business assistance options in Tacoma.

Get "The Scoop"

Get the lowdown on what's happening in Tacoma for the week of March 29 - April 11 on "The Scoop".

Opportunities open to volunteer for Tacoma Arts Commission

The Tacoma City Council invites individuals who are knowledgeable and passionate about the arts (literary, visual and performing) to apply for the Tacoma Arts Commission. If you are interested in supporting, enhancing and providing leadership for the arts in Tacoma, this is a great opportunity. For more information about the Tacoma Arts Commission, go to www.tacomaculture.org and select “The Arts".

Celebrate the opening of the Lincoln Avenue corridor on April 2

Join the Port of Tacoma and City of Tacoma to celebrate the opening of the Lincoln Avenue corridor on Monday, April 2, 2012, from 2 p.m. to 2:30 p.m. at the Gog-le-hi-te Wetland (near the intersection of Lincoln Avenue and Stewart Street).

The Lincoln Avenue Corridor is a vital link between downtown Tacoma and the Port. It includes the City’s Lincoln Avenue Bridge, completed this past December, and the Port’s Lincoln Avenue Grade Separation, completed last summer.

This is an outdoor event. Attendees are encouraged to wear appropriate footwear, to dress for the weather and to park at Cascade Sierra Solutions, 2202 Stewart St.

Museum of Glass names new executive director/curator

The Board of Trustees of the Museum of Glass has announced the appointment of Susan Warner as executive director/curator. As director, Warner will oversee the continuing development of the Museum of Glass as it begins its tenth year of operation. Opened in 2002, the Museum has attracted 1.8 million visitors from all 50 states and 75 countries. In July, the Museum will celebrate its 10 year anniversary.

Celebrity Cake Studio makes a move

The Celebrity Cake Studio left its longtime home at Freighthouse Square for a new location at 314 E. 26th Street in the Dome District. Not only is this bakery making a move physically, but they're also planning to be on the move with Cake Mobile! If you are having a craving for a sweet treat, keep your eye out for a lavender mobile bakery. www.celebritycakestudio.com

Get "The Scoop"

Get the lowdown on what's happening in Tacoma for the week of March 15- March 28 on "The Scoop".

MLK Subarea Plan community workshop scheduled for March 22

Help define the key priorities for the Martin Luther King Jr. neighborhood and work to explore strategies for how to address them at a community workshop on March 22 from 6 – 8 p.m. at the McCarver Elementary School Library located at 2111 South J St. For more information visit the project website at www.cityoftacoma.org/MLKPlan.

Corina Bakery mixes it up!

Recently, Corina Bakery moved to a larger space next door to The Grand Cinema. The space is bigger and airier than Corina’s old locale. Go grab a baked goodie and some tasty coffee at Corina's new home located at 602 S. Fawcett Ave. www.corinabakery.com

Job growth projected for Tacoma

RealtorMag article touts Tacoma as the 8th largest area for job growth in the next decade: http://bit.ly/wPqYfr

Get "The Scoop"

Get the lowdown on what's happening in Tacoma for the week of March 1- March 7 on "The Scoop". http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uBljZRAh_rk

A reason to celebrate

Did you know that it's Tacoma Drinks Washington Beer Week? Cheers! http://blog.seattlepi.com/washingtonbeerblog/2012/02/21/tacoma-drinks-washington-beer-week/

2012 Innovative Grant Program now accepting applications

If you have a great idea to improve your neighborhood, you should consider applying for a 2012 Innovative Grant. Innovative grants are intended to assist and support neighborhood organizations within Tacoma’s eight Neighborhood Council districts to develop and implement small-scale physical improvement projects.

The application deadline is 5 p.m. on April 27, 2012. Applications may be downloaded at www.cityoftacoma.org/neighborhoodcouncils or by email request to shari.hart@cityoftacoma.org or by calling (253) 591-5208.

The Scoop!

"The Scoop" is a brief snapshot of what's happening in Tacoma for the week of Feb.15. http://youtu.be/gegmB7vOWAo

Spaceworks Tacoma success

Spaceworks Tacoma is excited to announce that two project sites in the Hilltop Business District have converted to house full-time independent business tenants. After just six months with the program, both Fab-5 and N. Dybevik Piano Company have transitioned into leases with the property owner of the Spaceworks building located at 1310-1316 Martin Luther King, Jr. Way. www.spaceworkstacoma.com

Get charged up!

Tacoma now has 12 new public electric vehicle charging stations. The charging stations are available for public use at a cost of $3 per charge. For more information and EV locations, visit www.cityoftacoma.org/EVstations.

Shift is happening in 2012

Support Go Local – an independent business alliance dedicated to creating connections for businesses with other businesses, services, resources, new customers, non-profits, and local government – and attend Shift Happens 2012 on Jan. 30. Go Local Shift Happens 2012.

Connect at Camp6

A new website - Camp6 - is all about creating and building a sense of community. The site plans to promote the merchants, style, and culture that makes our community what it is. The founders hope to inspire growth and understanding within Tacoma. Check it out for yourself at www.camp6tacoma.com. If you are interested in being featured on Camp6 as a “Merchant” or want to showcase an event, contact: community@camp6tacoma.com.

Hot Dog! Tacoma has a new food cart

Downtown Tacoma's first and only hot dog cart is open for bizz! T-Town Dogs can be found at Tollefson Plaza across from the Museum on Pacific and 17th. Go get your dogs Tacomans. @TTownHotdogs

Community meeting to discuss future of MLK neighborhood

The City is developing Subarea Plan and Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) for the Martin Luther King Jr. neighborhood (MLK). The MLK neighborhood on Tacoma’s Hilltop is well positioned for economic revitalization and densification and is one of the City’s 16 mixed-use centers that are identified in the City’s Code as Transfer of Development Rights (TDR) receiving areas.

On Thursday, Jan. 5, 2012, from 5 - 7 p.m. at the Evergreen State Community College, Tacoma Campus, Lyceum Room (1210 6th Ave.), the City will host a community meeting to discuss the Subarea Plan and Environmental Impact Statement (EIS).

For more information about the project, visit www.cityoftacoma.org/mlkplan.

The Scoop!

Get the lowdown on what's happening in Tacoma...on The Scoop! (December 21-31, 2011)

UWT Hood Corridor Project Community Forum, Jan 30

Join the University of Washington Tacoma for a conversation about the Hood Corridor Project. Guided by student and community input, landscape architects Atelier Dreiseitl have developed a preliminary plan that transforms the 80ft wide rail corridor through campus into a vibrant new open space. The plan celebrates and leverages opportunities provided by community connections while honoring the industrial past of the surrounding area. The community forum for the UWT Hood Corridor Project starts at 5 p.m. on Monday, Jan. 30 in William Philip Hall.

South Downtown Subarea Plan public meeting scheduled for Dec. 15

The City of Tacoma is preparing a South Downtown Subarea Plan to set a vision for growth and development in the south downtown area of Tacoma (south of South 15th Street). As part of the plan, the City, in partnership with the University of Washington-Tacoma (UWT), is preparing a non-project Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) to evaluate how implementation of the subarea plan might impact environmental and infrastructure resources in the area, as well as how those impacts might be mitigated.

One of the first steps in preparing an EIS is to conduct a scoping process to ask citizens and organizations for their concerns, comments and ideas. The City is hosting a public scoping period and a public scoping meeting on Dec. 15, 2011, to gather public comments on the issues and opportunities that should be the focus of the EIS. The public meeting is scheduled from 4 -7 p.m. at the Carwein Auditorium on the UWT campus located at 1900 Commerce St. in the Keystone Building, Room 102.

The public scoping comment period will last through Jan. 10, 2012. Comments are welcome at the public scoping meeting on Dec. 15, 2011, or anytime during the comment period through email at planning@cityoftacoma.org or by mail: Community and Economic Development Department, c/o Brian Boudet, 747 Market St., Room 1036, Tacoma, WA 98402.

For additional information visit the project website: www.cityoftacoma.org/planning.

Spaceworks Tacoma is looking for energetic projects for 2012

Spaceworks Tacoma is seeking artists, artist groups and creative entrepreneurs to energize empty spaces in downtown Tacoma. The goal is to transform empty storefronts with artistic enterprise in an effort to make Tacoma a stronger, more vibrant City. There are three opportunities currently available. For more information, visit www.SpaceWorksTacoma.com or email rsolverson@cityoftacoma.org

New indoor sports center coming soon

A new, 52,000-square-foot sports facility, big enough to house two indoor soccer fields, is now under construction in South Tacoma. The Pacific Sports Center plans to open its doors in February. The new facility will be located at South 80th and Pine streets.

Help plan for growth & development

The City of Tacoma will host a community meeting on Thursday, Dec. 1 beginning at 4 p.m. to gather ideas from the community about the future of south downtown Tacoma. The meeting will kick off the South Downtown Subarea Plan and Environmental Impact Statement, which covers an area including the Dome District, Brewery District, Thea Foss Waterway and University of Washington-Tacoma (UWT).

The City is looking to citizens and property owners to help develop an inclusive plan that complements the needs of current residents and property owners, while integrating these planning decisions to promote a healthy environment and a healthy economy in the decades to come. The community meeting is scheduled from 4 -7 p.m. at the Carwein Auditorium on the UWT campus located at 1900 Commerce St. in the Keystone Building, Room 102.

For more information, visit www.cityoftacoma.org/planning and click on “Dome/Brewery District Subarea Plan & EIS.”

What's all the STINK about Füdie?

Füdie, right next door to the über deli, STINK Cheese & Meat, is open for bizz. This gourmet kitchen and food store is the latest addition to the St. Helens neighborhood in downtown Tacoma. You will be impressed with Füdie's intriguing selection of gourmet food products, top-of-the-line kitchen tools, wine and hard to find beers. And, if you have yet to try STINK, there is no better time than now! While grabbing lunch or dinner, you can skip over to Füdie or vice versa —they blew a hole through the wall. Read more... Füdie, Sixth and Soot. Helens Ave., 253.426.1347

Tacoma has a gem of a jeweler

A pendant created by Tacoma’s LeRoy Jewelers has won a national recognition from the American Gem Trade Association. LeRoy’s pendant, created from tourmalinated quartz, rainbow moonstone and platinum, won the award in the Classic Platinum Design – Innovation category. Read more...

UW Tacoma continues to grow

Students turned out in record numbers again at the traditional start of the school year at UW Tacoma. This autumn, enrollment rose by almost 10 percent over 2010, with a new headcount of 3,662 students, compared to last year’s headcount of 3,331.The enrollment increase followed a 23 percent increase in freshman applications and a 16 percent increase in transfer applications.

Mortenson Construction receives national Design-Build Award for Cheney Stadium

Mortenson Construction has received a national design-build award from the Design-Build Institute of America (DBIA) for the renovation of Cheney Stadium. The National Design-Build Awards recognize outstanding projects that demonstrate successful application of design-build strategies resulting in a superior facility that exceeds the owner’s needs.

Cheney Stadium, home to the Tacoma Rainiers – the Triple-A Affiliate of the Seattle Mariners, was built in 1960 in approximately 100 days. This $30 million renovation, the first full renovation in 52 seasons, was also fast-tracked. It was completed in seven months – from the final home game on Sept. 2, 2010, to substantial completion on April 1, 2011, prior to the start of the new season. Visit http://www.mortenson.com/ to learn more.

Pacific Avenue streetscape wayfinding open house scheduled for Nov. 9

On Nov. 9, the City of Tacoma, Tacoma-Pierce County Chamber of Commerce and Go Local will co-host a Pacific Avenue wayfinding update and idea gathering open house from 5 to 6 p.m. The open house will be held to present the wayfinding conceptual design and gather input on destination listings and information to be provided on kiosks.

What: Wayfinding open house
Where: Tacoma-Pierce County Chamber, 950 Pacific Ave., 3rd Floor
When: Nov. 9, anytime between 5 and 6 p.m.
Why: To gather feedback on key visitor destinations/information for wayfinding signage and kiosks.

For more information about the Pacific Avenue streetscape project, visit www.cityoftacoma.org/pacave. If you would like more information about this meeting, contact Sue O’Neill at (253) 591-5789 or email her at soneill@cityoftacoma.org.

Tacoma celebrates 10 years of arts and culture this November

November 2011 marks the 10th anniversary of Art at Work: Tacoma Arts Month – a community celebration of the arts that includes more than 250 community-hosted arts and culture events, exhibits and workshops for all ages taking place every day throughout the month. Programming includes music, theater and dance performances; visual art exhibits; film screenings; literary readings; lectures; and workshops. All events are open to the public and many activities are free. Information about programming for the entire month is available at www.ArtAtWorkTacoma.com.

IID receives Online Trust award

Tacoma-based Internet Identity (IID) has received the Online Trust Alliance's online trust leadership award. IID was recognized in the "excellence in business solutions" category for its ActiveTrust Resolver product. IID has been providing technology and services that secure the Internet presence for an organization and its extended enterprise since the company was founded in 1996. www.internetidentity.com

Hotel Murano wins accolades from Conde Nast Magazine

Hotel Murano ranked 17th best hotel in the country, right between the Carlyle in New York and the Inn on Biltmore Estate in Asheville, N.C. Read more:
http://blog.thenewstribune.com/business/2011/10/12/once-again-downtown-tacoma-hotel-murano-wins-accolades-from-readers-of-conde-nast-magazine/

Three Tacoma employers win Governor’s Commute Smart Awards

Two decades of saving commuters money, curbing air pollution, conserving fuel and easing traffic congestion was celebrated yesterday at the 2011 Governor’s Commute Smart Awards. Among the recipients of this year’s awards were three Tacoma employers.

- Todd Badham and Nicole Mulhausen, employee transportation coordinators (ETC) at the University of Puget Sound, received the Commute Smart ETC Leadership Award.
- Tacoma Lutheran Retirement Community was recognized with a Commute Smart Employer Champion Award.
- And Gordon Thomas Honeywell, an active participant in the Pierce Trips program for small employers since 2001, was presented with a Commute Smart Employer Champion Award for Voluntary Employers.

The Commute Smart Awards recognize innovation and dedication by communities, businesses, agencies and workplace transportation coordinators as they promote transit, biking, walking, ridesharing and other smart transportation options.

More details about the Governor’s Commute Smart Awards and the list of winners are posted online at http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/Transit/PT_Features.htm#CSA.
For more information about Commute Trip Reduction in Pierce County, visit www.piercetrips.com

Business Leaders Gather Locally to Talk Bizz

About 15 Northwest credit union leaders, some of them small business owners, will gather in Tacoma's Hotel Murano to talk about ways they can boost business lending, in hopes of adding more jobs to the region. Read more...

Dome District launches new website

Check out the Dome District's new website. This new website will promote all the Dome District has to offer from business services and eating establishments to excursions and attractions. It’s also a great way to stay connected to the Dome District community through news updates and business district information. Visit www.tacomadomedistrict.com.

Construction on South 9th Street scheduled to start on Sept. 12

The South 9th Street Improvement Project, which runs between Commerce Street and Market Street in Downtown Tacoma is scheduled to start Sept. 12. The project includes removing and replacing the concrete panels in the street and sidewalk as well as construction of bulb outs and crosswalks.

Construction will require the contractor to close two of the four lanes on 9th Street. The remaining two lanes will provide one-lane of travel in each direction.

Pedestrian safety and mobility will be improved with new ramps and bulb outs at Court C, between Broadway and Market Street, and at South 9th Street. These improvements will require a change in traffic direction on Court C from one-way southbound to one-way northbound between South 9th and South 11th streets.

Work in this area will take place between 7 a.m. and 6 p.m. The project is scheduled to be completed by Nov. 10, 2011. Weather and unknown site conditions may impact the schedule. For more information, visit the project website at www.cityoftacoma.org/South9thStreet.

New Alliance Aims to Help Businesses Become Green

The Environmental Business Alliance (EB Alliance) of Tacoma-Pierce County has been formed to help businesses become green in two ways: by improving their environmental performance and increasing their profitability.

The EB Alliance is a partnership of the Tacoma-Pierce County Chamber, Citizens for a Healthy Bay, Go Local and the City of Tacoma. The alliance provides businesses with access to resources and information about environmentally sustainable practices.

Membership is free. Businesses that join the alliance will help the environment, enhance the community, and improve their own bottom line by saving utility resources and reaching more customers. For more information, visit www.eb-alliance.org.

Attention Foodies: Restaurant Watch 2011

A lot of restaurants have opened up since June in Tacoma! Keep in the know at blog.the newstribune.com/tntdiner

Super Best of Tacoma 2011

Check out the Weekly Volcano's super best of Tacoma list!

Fire Safety Loan Program now available for business and property owners in Tacoma

Small business and commercial property owners required to make unanticipated, costly upgrades to structures to meet the fire and building codes now have some help available. In an effort to assist with fire and life safety requirements, City Council and the Tacoma Community Redevelopment Authority have established a Fire Safety Loan Program (FSLP).

The FSLP loan is available to any business owner or property owner within Tacoma city limits to upgrade an existing retail, office or mixed-use building to adhere to current fire safety codes. Residential units are not eligible under this program.

Funds can be used for:

• Fire detection systems

• Fire suppression systems

• Improve or add means of egress

• Fire-related mechanical, electrical and plumbing systems

• Kitchen hoods

• Other fire and life safety code requirements

For more information about FSLP criteria, terms and conditions, contact Genal Gavaldon with Community and Economic Development at (253) 591-5213 or by email at g.gavaldon@cityoftacoma.org.

Four Ways to Grow Your Bizz Workshop

You are invited to attend the City of Tacoma’s upcoming July Economic Gardening Business Workshop: Four Ways to Grow your Business.

In this fast-paced workshop, you will learn about the four cornerstones of growing your business. Speaker Audrey Godwin, CPA will share the secrets of creating long-term success for your business. The workshop will focus on developing a selling strategy and pricing your product appropriately.

Economic Gardening workshops are FREE to any business that is located within the City of Tacoma limits.

Date/Time: Wednesday, July 13th, 2011,Choose a morning or evening session, 8am – 10am or 5:30 – 7:30pm

Location: Family Investment Center – Salishan, 1724 East 44th Street, Room 104, Tacoma, WA, 98404

To Register Online:
Morning Session (8 - 10 am): http://july13morningsession.eventbrite.com/

Evening Session (5:30 – 7:30pm): http://july13eveningsession.eventbrite.com/

For questions or to reserve by phone, please contact Christine Clifford at 253.573.2435 or cclifford@cityoftacoma.org.

2011 Summer Events Calendar now available

The City decided to produce the very popular 2011 Summer Events calendar only in a PDF this year in an effort to reduce cost and waste. Please share, post, print and distribute the 2011 Summer Event calendar freely. http://cms.cityoftacoma.org/CRO/summerevents2011.pdf

Need some spice in your life?

Organic Spice Traders just opened! Their selection of organic products are of the highest standards of freshness, purity and quality. Organic Spice Traders is located at 1127 Broadway Plaza, Tacoma. http://www.organicspicetraders.com/index.cfm

BCRA is all a Twitter

Apple is using BCRA as their Design Firm case study and coming to do a photo shoot in their Tacoma office on the use of their iPads in marketing. For the latest, follow: @BCRADESIGN

On par for the U.S. Open

Reflect on the success of the U.S. Amateur and build on the excitement about the U.S. Open at Chambers Bay! Watch the video: http://rainiercountry.s3.amazonaws.com/rc_pc_amateur.wmv

Tacoma selected to participate in Creative Vitality Study

The City of Tacoma, led by the Tacoma Arts Commission, was one of five groups throughout Washington selected through a competitive application process to participate in a Creative Vitality Index (CVI) study led by the Washington State Arts Commission (WSAC) and WESTAF (Western States Arts Federation). The study is intended to explore how the CVI can inform and advance local efforts to define, support and advance the creative economy in communities across the state. http://www.arts.wa.gov/resources/creative-vitality-index.shtml.

Cool news!

Our very own Mayor Strickland is one of 15 individuals from across the country to have been appointed to the U.S. Small Business Administration's Council on Underserved Communities. Check it out... http://www.businessexaminer.com/blog/strickland-appointed-to-national-sba/

Seitel Systems branches out to Tacoma

Seitel Systems, an IT solutions company, recently opened a Tacoma branch on Pacific Ave. Seitel provides network, server, telecommunications, and desktop services that include system design, implementation and support. Welcome to Tacoma! Stay tuned for info about an open house. http://seitelsystems.com/

Wingman Brewers now at Red Hot

Wingman Brewers, a niche brewery located on the edge of Tacoma's Historic Brewery District, just held their first public tap! After a release party on April 21, Wingman beer is now available at the Red Hot.

Local businesses can learn how to build/maintain a website

At the April 28 Economic Gardening Workshop, local business owners can learn how to create a website quickly and inexpensively. This workshop is also helpful for those businesses that have an existing website but are having difficulty managing it.

The City’s Community and Economic Development Department will host the upcoming free Economic Gardening Workshop – “Build a Website with Ease” on April 28 at Evergreen State College – Tacoma Branch, 1210 Sixth Ave., Room 104.

Robbin Block, a 25 year marketing strategist and corporate renegade, will lead the session. She’s given hundreds of engaging presentations and is the author of “Social Persuasion: Making Sense of Social Media for Small Business.”

Tacoma business owners can choose between two free sessions and can register online:

• Morning Session (8:00-10:00am): http://buildwebsiteamsession.eventbrite.com


• Lunch Session (12:00– 2:00pm): http://buildwebsitelunchsession.eventbrite.com
  

For questions or to reserve a space by phone, please contact Christine Clifford at
253.573.2435 or cclifford@cityoftacoma.org.

New grocer coming to South Tacoma

Discount grocer WinCo Foods will open its South Tacoma store in just over a week. The employee-owned, Boise-based company has been renovating a former furniture store at 1913 S. 72nd St. for several months and will open its doors on April 17 at 9 a.m.

Opportunity for Tacoma bizz owners to plug-in

In response to the growing electric vehicle market, Federal stimulus grant funds are available to local business owners to install public customer charging stations. The Puget Sound area is one of a handful of regions that can take advantage of this opportunity. Businesses have until September 2011 to pursue the available grant funds to help the Puget Sound area plug-in to a new era of transportation innovation and reduce the fossil fuel costs and emissions. For more information, visit http://www.cityoftacoma.org/Page.aspx?hid=16469

Gibson's Frozen Yogurt Opens in Stadium District

Have the winter blahs? Go get some yogurt at the newly opened, self-serve Gibson Yogurt Shoppe. They use only YoCream® Frozen Yogurt, the healthful frozen yogurt with live and active cultures, produced locally here in the Pacific Northwest. New flavors and toppings change each week. The shop is just a block from Stadium High School in North Tacoma. http://gibsonsyogurt.com/

Wedding bells in your future?

Then don't miss the inaugural Wedding Walk this Sunday, Feb. 20 from noon to 6 p.m. Wedding Walk Tacoma is a one day event that will introduce prospective brides, grooms, wedding attendants and their family and friends to Tacoma, as a one-stop shopping destination for weddings, while sampling excellent food, wonderful beverages and touring Tacoma’s most beautiful places to get married.

Brides, grooms, friends and family are invited to walk the Downtown Tacoma Business District, stopping at the Marriott and Pacific Grill Event Center, then walking down Pacific Avenue to the Tacoma Art Museum, Union Station, and the History Museum before crossing the Chihuly Bridge to the Museum of Glass on the water.

For more information or to buy tickets, visit http://www.weddingwalktacoma.com/Purchase_Tickets.html.

Live, work and buy groceries downtown!

A lease has been signed and a date has been set: http://blog.thenewstribune.com/business/2011/02/15/its-official-grocery-store-will-open-this-summer-on-pacific-avenue-in-tacoma/

Yelp is loving Tacoma!

According to Yelp, Tacoma is the most romantic city in its database. http://bit.ly/YelpCupid

BE Green South Sound/ Shift Happens, Jan. 31

Like many business people, you may be intrigued by sustainability. You may be enticed by the savings offered by lean operations. You may want to know why your clients or customers are spending their money on green products and services. Maybe you want to save the planet. Maybe you plan to start small, and see where it goes from there.

Whatever compels you, this event will provide you with all the tools, information, free and low-costs resources, connections, and inspiration needed to propel your own sustainable business initiatives. This event is in collaboration with the Business Examiner Group, Pecha Kucha, ISIRIS, Go Local, The City of Tacoma and TacomaACTS.

Visit www.begreensouthsound.com for event details, speakers and to register.

Take Part in the Urban University

Thursday, Feb. 3, 2011
7:30 a.m. - 3:30 p.m.
William W. Philip Hall
University of Washington Tacoma campus

This dynamic forum will examine the role of urban universities, offering insights into how communities and universities interact, work together, and enable social and economic change. All events are free and open to the public; however advance registration is required. For a detailed schedule and to register go to: tacoma.uw.edu/events/urban

Free local government education sessions

For the seventh consecutive year, the City of Tacoma’s Neighborhood Council Office, in cooperation with the University of Washington Tacoma’s Urban Studies Program, is offering six free public sessions of the Government Leadership Institute (GLI) on Mondays from 5:30 to 7 p.m. on the UWT campus, Keystone Building Auditorium, 1900 Commerce St. No registration is required.

This year the GLI will focus on the theme: Planning the Economic Future of Tacoma. The purpose of these sessions is to provide an opportunity for the general public and students to share time in the classroom and educate each other about the impacts of various municipalities on the development of the city. It will also provide an opportunity for both citizens and students to consider real-life perspectives rather than hypothetical situations.

The following sessions will be provided, and will include presenters from various agencies and organizations:

• Jan. 24: Financing Development in Tacoma
• Jan. 31: Strengthening and Expanding the Local Labor Market
• Feb. 7: Human Capital Development in Tacoma
• Feb. 14: The Port and the City
• Feb. 28: Land Use Politics and Real Estate Development
• March 7: Urban Power and Decision-Making

For detailed information about each of these sessions, call Elton Gatewood at (253) 591-5229 or visit the Neighborhood Council's website.

New Tenant Downtown

Medical Imaging Northwest (MINW) and Diagnostic Imaging Northwest (DINW) corporate operations, currently housed in Lakewood, will soon move to a new downtown address in the Wells Fargo Building on Pacific Avenue. The MINW/DINW operations team supports 25 fellowship-trained, board-certified radiologists who provide sub-specialty professional services and onsite coverage in radiology departments. DINW represents the three joint-ventured, outpatient imaging centers under the name Diagnostic Imaging Northwest. For more information visit, http://www.minw.com/ or http://www.mydinw.com/

Microenterprise Community Forum

February 11, 2011 from 1 – 5 pm

Microenterprises can generate economic opportunity in the U.S. even during tough times. But to thrive, entrepreneurs and very small businesses often need support in the form of training, technical assistance and capital. This community forum will bring together people and organizations to explore support for microenterprise in Pierce County.

For registration and more information, visit: tacoma.uw.edu/clsr/microenterprise

Hilltop gets a new hot spot

Check out what's new in the Hilltop neighborhood: 1022 South, http://tmagazine.blogs.nytimes.com/2011/01/04/a-hilltop-apothecary-1022-south/

Big win for Tacoma!

Full-service grocery store coming to downtown Tacoma's Pacific Plaza
Read more: http://blog.thenewstribune.com/business/2011/01/04/full-service-grocery-store-coming-to-downtown-tacomas-pacific-plaza/#ixzz1AIYES8kz

What's brewing on 6th

According to a post on the Seattle P.I. blog, the Liquor Control Board recently received a Microbrewery license application from the Old Mill House Micro Brew for a commercial location on 6th Avenue.

Welcome Figure celebration, Sept. 18

You're invited to a celebratory event hosted by the Puyallup Tribe of Indians, the City of Tacoma and the Tacoma Art Museum at Tollefson Plaza (17th Street and Pacific Avenue in downtown Tacoma), Sept. 18 from 10 a.m. - noon, as a Welcome Figure designed and carved by Shaun Peterson (Qwalsius) is blessed and raised. Call (253) 591-5192 for more information.

September Economic Gardening Business Workshop: A Financial Check-up for your Business

This workshop will teach the fundamentals of financial statements and explain how businesses can use this information to ensure positive cash flow...and profitability. Economic Gardening workshops are FREE to any business that is located in Tacoma.

Date/Time:
Thursday, Sept. 16 , 2010

Location: Evergreen State College – Tacoma Branch (1210 Sixth Avenue, Room 105) Refreshments and light snacks will be served and there is free parking in campus parking lot.

To Register Online:
Morning Session (8-10a): http://www.eventbrite.com/event/779170520
Lunch Session (12– 2p): http://www.eventbrite.com/event/779186568

Tacoma kudos!

Special thanks to PubliCola for some serious Tacoma love in "Oh, Les Elites de Tacoma": http://bit.ly/c5APOd

Final opportunity to give parking pay station feedback, Sept. 2

Learn more about the status of on-street parking pay stations in Tacoma at a public meeting this Thursday, Sept. 2 starting at 5 p.m. at the Pantages Theater (9th Street and Broadway). This is the last public meeting before the pay stations are operational on Sept. 20, 2010. For more information about the pay stations, visit www.downtowntacomaparking.com.

“Seaside Opera” to inhabit Tollefson Plaza

On Monday Aug. 16 at 2p.m., A.K. Mimi Allin will introduce her site-specific performance piece created for the plaza - 10 to 15 minute performances will occur on the half-hour from 2–7p.m. each day through Aug. 21. The piece was inspired by the physical space of Tollefson Plaza, its proximity to water and Allin's passion for sailing on Puget Sound.

Audience members may watch from the steps beside the plaza’s cascading pools where an array of wind-up water toys, miniature sampans, water guns and fishing rods invite play. Seaside Opera is funded by Tacoma Arts Commission as part of Spaceworks Tacoma.

Spanish Steps are getting a makeover

On Aug. 2, rehabilitation of the Spanish Steps started. While construction is underway, the stairs will not be accessible. The scope of work includes:

· Rehabilitation of urns, baluster, newels, post and railing
· Installation of pedestrian furnishings and signage
· Installation of a new retaining wall to support the steps
· Streetlights and landscaping

The Spanish Steps are on the National Historic Register and are modeled after the famous steps in Rome. The steps are used as a pedestrian connection between major roadways in Tacoma and also serve as an elegant backdrop for celebrations held by residents and visitors.

The project is scheduled to be complete in November 2010.

Spaceworks Tacoma block party, July 29

Celebrate artists and arts organizations using their creativity to liven up vacant spaces on July 29 at the Spaceworks Tacoma block party. The event marks the program’s official opening and will be held at 9th Street and Broadway in downtown Tacoma and at the participating venues.

The festivities will run from 5 to 8 p.m. and will celebrate the artists, their work and active life in downtown. The party will include guided walking tours, theatrical performances, live dance performances, an ongoing screening of short films and a season preview for the Broadway Center for the Performing Arts. For more information about Spaceworks Tacoma, artists and activities, visit spaceworkstacoma.com.

Spaceworks Tacoma takes shape, opening set for July 29

Artists and arts organizations have started to inhabit formerly vacant spaces in downtown Tacoma as the Artscapes component of Spaceworks Tacoma. Spaceworks Tacoma is a joint initiative of the City of Tacoma, Shunpike, and the Tacoma-Pierce County Chamber of Commerce to activate empty spaces with creative use.

On July 29, Spaceworks Tacoma will host a ‘block party’ style opening at the Theater on the Square and at the participating venues to celebrate the artists, their work and active life in downtown Tacoma.

Site specific art installations are at 906 Broadway across from the Pantages Theater, the Woolworth Windows, Commerce and 11th streets and in the corner of the windows at 950 Pacific Ave. Look for many more installations throughout downtown Tacoma in the coming months. For more information about Spaceworks Tacoma, visit spaceworkstacoma.com.

Brewery District gets new art foundry

Up from the ashes, Tacoma’s new art foundry, Two Ravens Studio, recently opened in Tacoma’s Brewery District. Two Ravens can do everything from conceptualizing a sculpture to finishing it and everything in between. Artists who work in any sculptural medium can have molds created and their works cast in bronze, aluminum or resin. Or if you have never created a sculpture but would like to design one, they can help. Two Ravens worked with the City of Tacoma’s Community & Economic Development Department through their Economic Gardening and Arts programs to gain assistance in establishing themselves. For more information, check out www.2RavensStudio.com.

Gritty City Gets Pretty

Great Tacoma write up in the Vancouver Sun: Tacoma - treasures beyond the Dome.

Safeway Grand Re-opening Events in Hilltop

Hilltop Safeway, Preview party: Friday, June 11 from 4 to 8 p.m.
All are welcome to attend a community preview party at the store with a variety of entertainment, food and product demonstrations, promotional discounts, customer and employee recognitions and some welcoming comments from Safeway store manager Chris Smith and Council member Lauren Walker.

Hilltop Safeway, Ribbon cutting ceremony: Saturday, June 12 at 8 a.m
Regional Safeway corporate executives and Council member Lauren Walker will speak and there will be in-store special promotions and demonstrations throughout the day.

Come celebrate a win for the Hilltop!

3rd annual Pacific Ave Spring Festival & Car Show, June 12

The newly designated Pacific Avenue Business District will host the third annual spring festival and car show on Saturday, June 12 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Stewart Middle School, 5010 Pacific Ave. Don’t miss the arts, crafts, plants, food and cars galore!

Buzz about Tacoma’s Business Districts

Read more about the good work of Tacoma’s Business Districts in a recent article the Business Examiner published… http://www.businessexaminer.com/databank.php?djoPage=article_details&djoId=51818

Pacific Plaza awarded LEED platinum rating

Tacoma's first LEED platinum rating was recently awarded to the Pacific Plaza building. LEED Platinum certification is the highest rating possible from the U.S. Green Building Council for energy efficiency and environmental sustainability. Pacific Plaza , which was developed through a unique public-private partnership between the City of Tacoma and Pacific Plaza Development, LLC, is the only core and shell design project in Washington, and one of only 21 such projects worldwide, to achieve platinum certification.

Pacific Plaza has also received other awards for its design and dedication to energy efficiency and environmental sustainability since 2009, including a Ghilarducci Award from the Tacoma-Pierce County Chamber of Commerce and a Build Washington Award for Green Building from the Associated General Contractors of Washington.

Vroom! LeMay car museum to break ground June 10

After nearly a decade in development, the LeMay Museum recently announced that it will break ground on the long anticipated automotive museum in Tacoma, on June 10! Once construction is underway, the museum will begin to focus on the “Race to the Finish” campaign which will focus on exhibit and educational program development in preparation for the museum’s grand opening in summer 2011.

UWT continues to grow!

The University of Washington Tacoma will start construction this summer on a $24 million building that expands the library and provides more classrooms. The new building will be four stories with a basement. Check out the News Tribune story...

Proctor Farmers Market unveils market mural, May 15

The Proctor Farmers Market is pleased to announce the unveiling of a market-themed mural at the market site, North 27th and Proctor streets in Tacoma. The unveiling will take place on Saturday, May 15 at 11 a.m. The mural consists of four, 4 x 10 panels that reference the Art Nouveau period. www.proctorfarmersmarket.com

Developers tour the South Sound’s Downtown

On Friday, April 30, local real estate and industry leaders gathered together to learn more about Tacoma’s vibrant downtown districts and opportunities for development from the City's Community and Economic Development Department and the Tacoma-Pierce County Economic Development Board. Attendees toured the area and heard more about the City’s plan to continue public investment into downtown and plans to use efficiency, creativity, incentives and partnership to spark future investment from around the region.

Tacoma's SiteCrafting Inc. named to fastest-growing list

SiteCrafting, a website design and web application development company here in Tacoma, made the Bloomberg BusinessWeek's list of the 100 fastest-growing inner city companies in the country. Read more!

Silver Cloud Inn -Tacoma is a 2010 Best of Northwest Escape

Silver Cloud Inn - Tacoma, located along Ruston Way, was recently voted one of the top four romantic hotels in the northwest from King 5 Evening Magazine as part of the 2010 Best of Northwest Escapes!

Giddy-up! Farmers Market Rodeo Barn Dance, May 8

For a mere $25 you can attend the first-ever Farmers Market Rodeo Barn Dance! Your ticket includes a live auction, music by the Oly Mountain Boys, a free drink ticket and all night access to the mechanical bull. YeeeHaw! Show your pride for Tacoma and local farmers by attending on Saturday, May 8 at Freighthouse Square. Line dancing, good eating and hearty fun to be had by all at this country casual Ho-Down! For more information, visit http://www.tacomafarmersmarket.com/.

Congrats to the New Tacoma Award winners!

The New Tacoma Awards recognize businesses and individuals making oustanding contributions to downtown Tacoma. The 2010 winners are:

Schoenfeld Award: Recognizing exemplary performance and pizzazz as a retailer or restaurateur (Two Winners)

• Dragonfly
• Doyle’s Public House

Ghillarducci Award: Recognizing successful new development, renovation or beautification

• Pacific Plaza LLC

Union Station Award: Recognizing leading organizations, companies or individuals that have built or sustained momentum for revitalization (Two Winners)

• Tacoma Farmers Market
• Stan Selden

Popham Award: Recognizing the individual that has done the most to build “community spirit”

• Derek Young – Exit133, Suite133, Seasonal View

Hughes Group gets loan and plans to expand

Tacoma Community Redevelopment Authority (TCRA) recently provided a loan to Hughes Group, LLC to assist with the acquisition of a building located on South 37th & Lawrence streets. The total project is just over $1.2 million. The Hughes Group is a logistics company providing facility management with the majority of its business generated from military contracts. The company is relocating from Lakewood and expects to create about 15 new jobs! Hughes Group was recognized by the Puget Sound Business Journal as the 7th fastest-growing minority-owned business in Washington State in 2008.

Tacoma puts the class in glass

A writer for the Oregonian newspaper highlights Tacoma's glass art in an article posted today. Read more... http://blog.oregonlive.com/terryrichard/2010/04/tacomas_trail_of_glass_leaves.html

Murray Morgan Bridge ribbon cutting, March 31

Rain or shine, the Murray Morgan Bridge ribbon cutting will take place on Wednesday, March 31, at 9 a.m. on the west side of the bridge (near the intersection of A and 11th streets). The celebration will commemorate the completion of the re-cabling work and the turnback agreement. All are welcome to attend!

Pacific Avenue Business District is official

After applying for recognition from the Cross District Association and meeting the necessary requirements of the Neighborhood Business District Program, the Pacific Avenue Business District is the newest member of the 15-recognized business districts in Tacoma. The new district is located between South 46th and 56th streets along the main corridor of Pacific Avenue. It's in both the East Side and South End neighborhoods .

Eat fresh. Buy local. Sustain community.

Every Saturday from now until November, you can hit the Proctors Farmer's Market for fresh, local goods. When you come to the market, you can expect to find: local and organic vegetables and fruits, plants for your garden, cut flowers, grass-fed meat, fresh salmon, musicians, cooking demos and more! The market runs from 9 a.m. until 2 p.m. along North 27 Street and Proctor.

WANTED: Creative Pierce County high school students

Ethnic Fest 2010 is drawing near... With that, all Pierce County high school students are invited to participate in the Ethnic Fest Poster Contest. Winning artwork will be used on posters, t-shirts, and promotional materials as well as in advertising and public service announcements for Ethnic Fest 2010. Cash prizes will be awarded to the top three student artist winners. The poster contest is open to all Pierce County high school students. Entry deadline is Friday, April 23, 2010. Visit www.EthnicFestTacoma.com for complete contest rules and entry materials.

Go Tacoma! Real Estate Price Forecast: City by City

Interesting read by moneywatch.com - When will the value of your house finally start climbing again? This article has exclusive forecasts compiled by financial services company Fiserv for 384 real estate markets across the United States. How does Tacoma rate? Read more...

Mortenson Construction wins Cheney Stadium contract

By a 7-1 vote, Tacoma City Council approved a $26.5 million contract with Mortenson Construction for a major renovation of Cheney Stadium on March 9. A selection committee A selection committee considered bids from three teams and recommended the one led by Mortenson Construction.

Artists for bike-themed temporary artwork needed

In recognition of National Bike Month, the City of Tacoma and the Tacoma Art Museum invite artists and/or artist teams from Pierce and Thurston counties to get into gear and submit proposals for the creation of a piece of temporary artwork for the 4th annual Zeit-Bike exhibit at the Tacoma Art Museum. Deadline for submissions is March 19, 2010. Artists interested in applying may download the Call to Artists at www.tacomaculture.org/arts/Esubmit.asp. Calls to Artists are also available by calling (253) 591-5191 or by e-mailing nstrom-avila@cityoftacoma.org.

Design-build team selected for public garage

The City announced today that it has selected an award winning design-build team for the public garage which will be constructed on property adjacent to the historic Elks Temple building in downtown Tacoma. GLY Construction and Zimmer Gunsul Frasca Architects (ZGF) was the team selected for the public garage project. ZGF will design the project and GLY Construction will provide general contracting and construction services. Construction is slated to begin in the fall of 2010 with an opening scheduled for the spring of 2012. Read more in the News Tribune...

Free foreclosure information workshop, Feb. 20

Individual help with foreclosure issues will be available to the public at an upcoming free foreclosure workshop on Feb. 20 starting at 10 a.m. The workshop is being held to help those who are overwhelmed by their home mortgage payments to learn more about the foreclosure process and what options there are available. The event will be held from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., at the Evergreen College Tacoma Campus located at 1210 6th Ave. More information is available at www.makinghomeaffordable.gov and www.mortgagehelpnow.org.