The Key Peninsula has changed in countless ways over the decades — and stayed the same in others. From parades and playgrounds to mystery boats and marijuana laws, these headlines from past July editions of the Key Peninsula News (and its predecessor, the Key Peninsula Newsletter) offer a glimpse into the community’s unique past.
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.
School on the Rise - School on the Rise Construction began on the new Evergreen Elementary School, with a $25 million budget and plans to open in Fall 2021.
Graduation on the Runway - Due to COVID-19 restrictions, Peninsula High School held a socially distanced graduation parade along the runway at Narrows Airport, with families cheering as students rolled by in cars.
Justice on the Peninsula - In the wake of George Floyd’s death, Key Peninsula residents joined solidarity actions reflecting national calls for police reform and racial justice. Local conversations echoed broader movements across Washington.
Lakebay Marina Shut Down - Pierce County closed the Lakebay marina and café due to unsafe conditions and code violations, spotlighting years of structural and regulatory concerns.
Cannabis Crackdown - Washington’s Senate Bill 5052 forced marijuana dispensaries without recreational licenses to close by July 1. A Key Center shop was among those affected, marking a shift toward a regulated retail market.
Balloon Project Floats Away - KP Middle School students launched a telemetry-equipped weather balloon in June, but lost it during descent. The STEM project still inspired future tracking improvements. (The equipment was found 16 months later by a hiker on Tiger Mountain.)
Playground Plans Begin - Key Pen Parks began forming a committee to design a new playground at Gateway Park, seeking input on both play structures and open “free play” areas.
The Mystery of “Sloop John B” - A derelict 50-foot sailboat was hauled from Dutcher’s Cove under the state’s vessel removal program. Stripped of all markings, the boat’s origins and owner remained unknown.
Landlords vs. Crime - A crime task force launched an initiative to form a local landlord association, aiming to reduce meth-related crime and domestic violence through shared training and awareness.
Road to Nowhere - Dozens of homeowners on 144th Street discovered their only road was technically a Tacoma Power utility corridor — not a recognized county road — blocking property improvements and legal access.
KP Garden Wins Big - Sunnycrest Nursery won “Best in Show” at the inaugural Point Defiance Flower and Garden Show with a design inspired by the Peninsula’s natural beauty and creativity.
Beads & Business - Online retailer Artbeads.com purchased a warehouse near Key Center, employing 45 people and aiming to double that — signaling hope for tech jobs and economic growth.
Debating the Future - As the population grew, residents debated how to expand jobs and services without losing the Peninsula’s rural charm. The tension between development and preservation took center stage.
Pioneer Day in the Works - The KP Civic Center prepped for its annual Pioneer Day celebration, honoring Northwest roots with food, festivities, and small-town spirit.
Perfect Attendance - Nicholle Joyce of Longbranch was recognized for 13 years of perfect school attendance — from kindergarten through high school.
Bus Service Eliminated - Pierce Transit cut all bus service to Key Center due to Initiative 695, including senior shuttles. Limited weekday service was expected to return in September.
VFW Post Honored - KP’s VFW Post No. 4990 swept state awards: Commander Wally Cornman and Quartermaster Robert Blum earned All-State honors, while the Ladies Auxiliary took home top prizes, including Auxiliary President of the Year.
Microwaves, VCRs, and Scarecrows - Pioneer Day raffle prizes included a microwave and a VCR. It was also the first year of the community scarecrow contest.
Newsletter Changes Hands - Sally Kruger of Vaughn was named editor of the Key Peninsula Newsletter.
New Postmaster in Vaughn - Bea “Dolly” Wilson became Vaughn’s new postmaster.
New Releases at Movie Magic - On tape at the KC Corral: “Mickey and Maude 2010,” “Protocol,” and “Starman.”
Angel Guild Gives Back - The Angel Guild Thrift Shop donated nearly $13,000 to the KP Health Clinic, the fire department, scholarships, and general community welfare, including funds for a defibrillator and a Jaws of Life.
Fireworks on Joe’s Bay - The Fourth Annual KP All Community Fireworks Show lit up Von Geldern Cove at 10 p.m. on the Fourth of July.
UNDERWRITTEN BY THE FUND FOR NONPROFIT NEWS (NEWSMATCH) AT THE MIAMI FOUNDATION, THE ANGEL GUILD, ADVERTISERS, DONORS AND PEOPLE WHO SUPPORT INDEPENDENT, NONPROFIT LOCAL NEWS
