The Key Peninsula has seen its share of September milestones: From school board shakeups and levy debates to dolphins in the bay and the KP’s first full traffic light. These stories from past September editions of the Key Peninsula News (and its predecessor, the Key Peninsula Newsletter) reveal a community in motion, grounded in tradition, but always adapting.
You can dive deeper into all these stories and explore every back issue dating back to October 1975, on our searchable archives at www.keypennews.org/eeditions.
September 2020 – Five Years Ago
Online School Mandated; KP Community Steps Up — COVID-19 infection rates forced Peninsula School District to adopt remote learning after a county health mandate prohibited in-person classes. Parents voiced concern over the social toll of closures, while volunteers rallied to support students with school supplies, clothing, and masks during a drive-through giveaway at the Key Peninsula Civic Center.
Fire District Promotes New Leaders — KPFD promoted three firefighters to lieutenant and three lieutenants to captain in a July swearing-in. The moves come as all three southern stations — Wauna, Home, and Longbranch — are now staffed full-time for the first time in years. The new captains will oversee operations, training, and outreach in their assigned communities, continuing a shift toward more localized service and leadership.
Dolphin Delights in KP Waters — Boaters and beachgoers near Longbranch were treated to an unexpected show when a playful dolphin leapt and surfed alongside vessels in late July. Experts believe the acrobatic visitor is “Cinco,” a long-beaked common dolphin known to frequent South Puget Sound. Once rare this far north, a handful of dolphins have made the region home in recent years, dazzling onlookers with surprise appearances and stunts.
New Parks Director — Tracey Perkosky was hired as executive director of Key Pen Parks following the sudden death of longtime director Scott Gallacher, known to many as “Park Daddy.” A veteran of local government and parks planning, Perkosky came from the City of Bothell and said she was drawn to the Key Peninsula’s strong sense of community. Commissioners called the hire one of the most important decisions in the district’s history and a perfect fit.
School Board Breaks Down the Basics — With four of five Peninsula School Board seats up for election, KP News ran a series to explain how local schools operate. The final article clarified the board’s role in setting policy, hiring the superintendent, and approving budgets. Directors represent specific districts but vote on behalf of all students, and a strong community connection was emphasized as essential. “The board sets the vision,” said Superintendent Chuck Cuzzetto.
Major Grant Fuels Healthy-Community Vision — The Key Peninsula Community Council received a $150,000 grant from the Gary E. Milgard Family Foundation to build a new model for collaboration among local service organizations. Inspired by similar efforts in Enumclaw, the initiative aimed to reduce service overlap, improve access, and boost quality of life, especially for older residents and families in need. A new director position was created to lead the work and develop a long-term action plan.
Lakebay Marina Café Closes for Costly Repairs — A county inspection forced the closure of the café and picnic area at Lakebay Marina after concerns were raised about the pier’s safety. Owner Mark Scott, who reopened the historic site in 2013, said engineering plans were submitted for repairs, with early estimates around $150,000. Eight employees lost their jobs, and Scott launched a community fundraising effort and began exploring historic landmark status to help preserve the beloved waterfront spot.
Minter Turns 30 with Spiritwear and ’80s Flair — Minter Creek Elementary kicked off its 30th school year with big plans to celebrate, from pancake breakfasts to a proposed ’80s-themed dance. The PTA brought back the school’s original 1985 logo for new Spiritwear and invited alumni to share memories and join the fun. “We want the community to get excited,” said anniversary chair Maria Kusche, as the yearlong party got underway.
KP Gets Its First Real Traffic Light — Work began on Key Peninsula’s first full traffic signal at the intersection of KP Highway and State Route 302 , replacing the old yellow flashers. The $331,000 WSDOT project came in response to high accident rates in the area, including 24 crashes and one fatality over a three-year span. Road widening and resurfacing were also part of the fix, with completion expected by fall.
Fire Station Expansion Sparks Traffic Talk — Key Pen Parks endorsed a $670,000 expansion of Wauna Fire Station No. 1, funded mostly by the planned sale of the old station. The two-story addition would add meeting rooms, restrooms, and storage, but questions surfaced about increased traffic and the lack of turn lanes on SR-302. “It’s dangerous down there in ‘foggy bottom,’ ” said Commissioner Kip Clinton, who urged future traffic planning as the nearby 360-acre park development moved forward.
The Road Exists, Except It Doesn’t — Residents along 144th Road KPN found themselves in limbo after Tacoma Power claimed the road was private property, despite decades of public use and map records to the contrary. Title companies, county officials, and the utility pointed fingers as residents faced potential gate closures and loss of access. “We just want a stinking road,” one told officials. A solution remained elusive as the legal and logistical maze deepened.
Levy Promises More Help, Less Cost — Voters were asked to support an EMS levy increase for Fire District 16, doubling the rate to 50 cents per $1,000 of assessed value. The added revenue would fund an EMS membership program covering excess ambulance costs, replace aging equipment, and ensure two paramedics per shift. One district ambulance had logged over 180,000 miles — making the investment, officials said, critical to maintaining emergency services.
Opposition Flares Over EMS Levy Hike — A group calling itself Citizens Against the Levy urged voters to reject Fire District 16’s proposed EMS levy increase, accusing the district of poor money management. The flyer cited past bond shortfalls, non-voter-approved borrowing, and concerns about a $4 million revenue increase over 10 years. The opposition argued the measure would fund administrative costs and unguaranteed programs, calling it “more mismanagement of our tax dollars.”
Motorcycle Club Brings Skills, Stunts, and Service — The Hombres Motorcycle Club hosted “Millennium 2000” in Longbranch, drawing Harley riders from across the country for skill contests, stunts, and good-natured competition. Though their look was rough, members emphasized charity work and family values. Events included slow races, tire tosses, and a “can pick” challenge — all while keeping their bikes upright. “We don’t do alcohol or drugs,” one rider said. “This is our family.”
Axes, Burgers, and Peanut Whistles: A KP Classic — Old Timers Day and Logging Show brought out crowds for handsaws, helicopter rides, and classic small-town fun. The event honored local timber history with log-rolling, axe-throwing, chainsaw art, and even a “peanut whistle” contest for kids. Volunteers from the fire district groups served food, while longtime residents shared stories and skills from a bygone era. "When we were falling trees, “When we were falling trees, you didn’t go back to the truck,” said one old pro. “You packed a lunch.”
Fall Fundraiser Brings ‘A Touch of the Orient’ — The KP Civic Center’s annual “Flavor of Fall” fundraiser returned with an Asian-themed evening featuring local food, music, and a popular live auction. Catered by Carol Holder of Carol’s Catering, the event supported civic center operations and youth programs, including the KP Children’s Home Society. Last year’s event raised over $12,000, and organizers hoped for even bigger results from the sold-out evening at Vaughn Bay.
Zoning Plan Aims to Shape KP’s Future — Pierce County’s long-debated zoning ordinance moved closer to adoption, with a tentative enactment date set for May 1986. Key Peninsula residents weighed in on land use, density, and growth concerns, but planners noted a lack of consensus. The ordinance aimed to protect rural character, guide development, and prevent overcrowding, though agreement on how to get there remained elusive.
Anyone Have a Quarter? — The Key Center Arcade opened its doors in August, offering pool and video game fun from noon to midnight on weeknights and 2 a.m. on weekends. Owned by Randy and Linda Halliday, the late-night spot quickly became a teen favorite.
Big Hair, Big Hits — Released this month at Movie Magic in KC Corral: “The Breakfast Club,” “Amadeus,” and “Police Academy 2.”
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