The Jefferson County Beacon

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Thoughts, stories & ideas for Jefferson County, WA 🌉 bridged from ⁂ https://www.jeffcobeacon.com/, follow @ap.brid.gy to interact

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Longform Stories

Port Townsend Council Moves to Boost Housing

Council adopts parks plan and backs salmon-themed crosswalks.

2d ago·4 min read·725 words

How a Public Records Request Exposed Port Townsend Families to Harassment

An in-depth look at the PRA loophole, one man’s campaign and why your family’s data isn’t as protected as you think.

2d ago·9 min read·1684 words

Bayside Housing & Services Partners with Discovery Behavioral Health

The agreement will strengthen housing and care coordination in Jefferson County.

2d ago·2 min read·395 words

Jefferson PUD Proposes Overhaul of Low-Income Rate Assistance

New tiered discounts target households with the highest energy burden.

2d ago·3 min read·453 words

The Process of Prosecuting Child Sexual Abuse Crimes: Finding Justice While Protecting Victims

With several high profile child sexual assault crimes moving through superior court, reporter Angela Downs explains how those cases are processed, and why we won’t be covering them in the same way we …

2d ago·9 min read·1797 words

Superior Criminal Court May 29, 2026: Beginnings and Endings

Completed community service and the power of sticking with a program.

2d ago·3 min read·466 words

Meet That Nice HR Lady

Ever had a workplace conundrum and nowhere to turn for help? Those days are over, thanks to advice from That Nice HR Lady.

2d ago·4 min read·736 words

Where Affordable Care Act insurance coverage has dropped most in WA

by Jake Goldstein-Street, Washington State Standard June 1, 2026 Washington’s rural counties saw the largest drops in insurance coverage under the Affordable Care Act after the Republican-controlled …

2d ago·6 min read·1164 words

WTF Just Happened This Week

Republished from WTF Just Happened Today, a daily newsletter breaking down national news.

2d ago·9 min read·1687 words

Deadline Looms for Port Townsend Affordable Apartments

As the federal program phases out, low-income housing units may become market-rate units.

May 26·5 min read·851 words

Humane Society Investigation Confirms Neglect, Leadership Failures

Shelter board launches reforms after independent review.

May 26·5 min read·920 words

Public Defense Caseload Requirements: Constitutional Responsibility

New state regulations mean lighter caseloads for attorneys, but that doesn’t change the number of cases that need legal representation.

May 26·8 min read·1482 words

Superior Criminal Court, May 22, 2026 : Poor in Custody

Bail can be intentionally burdensome in consideration of public safety.

May 26·4 min read·713 words

Final Summer for Coast Artillery Museum at Fort Worden

After 50 years, the museum is preparing to close its doors.

May 26·6 min read·1163 words

What Carolyn Pours: Marande 2025 Rosé

A bright ‘Margharita pizza wine’ worth sharing with friends.

May 26·3 min read·497 words

1 year later, how WA’s controversial cap on rent hikes has been enforced

The state has issued over $800,000 in penalties against landlords, but hasn’t collected them so long as they comply with state law.

May 26·5 min read·989 words

Local ordinances aim to protect wildlife

Anacortes bans feeding deer, raccoons, pigeons, seagulls; San Juan County considering similar law.

May 26·8 min read·1570 words

WTF Just Happened This Week

Republished from WTF Just Happened Today, a daily newsletter breaking down national news.

May 26·5 min read·970 words

The Future is Bright and Inclusive for Uptown Port Townsend Streets

City council approves rainbow crosswalks and farmer’s market mural.

May 19·4 min read·725 words

WIC Farmers Market Benefits Cut for 2026 - Local Response Underway

Proposed cuts threaten nutritional support for women and children.

May 19·4 min read·705 words

Public Offers Sparse Testimony as County Wraps up Comp Plan Hearing

The 10-year update to bring significant changes.

May 19·4 min read·706 words

Superior Court March 15, 2026: Reappointment, Negotiations, and Warrants

Our justice system moves slowly often because the complications of life intercede.

May 19·4 min read·797 words

The Incarcerated Intellectual: An Introduction

Avery Loring is an incarcerated writer in Clallam Bay Correction Center.

May 19·6 min read·1028 words

Drag Brunch Canceled in Port Townsend

Owner speaks out on threats, family crisis and 'lack of empathy'.

May 19·7 min read·1290 words

Port’s Patience Wears Thin with EDC Partnership

Concerns over transparency and public/private model put EDC’s future in jeopardy.

May 19·6 min read·1198 words

Big Screen Views: The Sheep Detectives

A family friendly whodunit with plenty of wooly charm.

May 19·4 min read·655 words

Locals find USDA claim of $3 meals unrealistic

Agriculture secretary says healthy meals cost as little as $3; shoppers disagree.

May 19·4 min read·708 words

Finding Middle Ground in the Solar Debate with Agrivoltaics

Studies suggest rural residents are more amenable to solar when it incorporates farming. Is it enough to sway the anti-renewable energy efforts of the Trump administration?

May 19·6 min read·1086 words

Federal Judge Rebuffs bid to Toss WA Legislative Maps

by Jerry Cornfield and Bill Lucia, Washington State Standard May 18, 2026 A federal judge has rejected a request to ditch political maps for Washington’s Legislature that he approved two years ago. …

May 19·4 min read·621 words

WTF Just Happened This Week

Republished from WTF Just Happened Today, a daily newsletter breaking down national news.

May 19·6 min read·1055 words

Letter from the Editor: Transparency and Trust

Sometimes the “why” and “how” are just as important as the “what.”

May 13·1 min read·19 words

Port Townsend Council Breaks the Mold with First 'Round Table' Workshop

A new format of public engagement proved successful.

May 13·1 min read·19 words

Affordable Hometown PT Rejects City’s Counteroffer

With no settlement agreed upon, the Growth Management Act appeal continues.

May 13·1 min read·17 words

Board of County Commissioners Allocates Opioid Settlement Funds to Services for Those Struggling With Addiction

The $200k in funding went to programs run by Public Health and Believe in Recovery.

May 13·10 min read·1812 words

Criminal Court May 8, 2026: The Weight of Arraignment, and Warrants

Arraignments are the most important hearings for defendants because their freedom from custody is determined before the trial.

May 13·1 min read·29 words

Chlorophyll Corner: Live in the Moment with Cherry Blossoms

The cherry blossom season reminds us of how wonderfully fleeting life's beauty can be.

May 13·1 min read·23 words

Income tax foes will pursue repeal on fall ballot

They formally launched an initiative effort Tuesday. To qualify, they’ll need to gather upward of 300,000 signatures in less than two months.

May 13·1 min read·31 words

WTF Just Happened This Week

Republished from WTF Just Happened Today, a daily newsletter breaking down national news.

May 13·1 min read·18 words

Council Moves Forward with $11M Utility Bond, Launches New Community Engagement Pilot

Farmers Market Infrastructure Plan unanimously supported.

May 5·1 min read·18 words

Jefferson County Nears 10-Year Comp Plan Review

Big changes for housing, climate and Urban Growth Areas.

May 5·1 min read·16 words

County Finalizes Committees for August Parks Levy Lid-Lift Campaign

Established “for and against” committees will now seek support with the upcoming ballot measure.

May 5·1 min read·23 words

Caswell Brown Village is Expanding, Prepares for Congregate Shelter

Olympic Community Action Partnership plan for property renovations, location changes, and new builds.

May 5·1 min read·22 words

Velo Cats: A Curious Bike Shop

Bike shop collective supports the fun and independence of local bike riders.

May 5·1 min read·18 words

Big Screen Views: “The Devil Wears Prada 2”

Meryl Streep and Anne Hathaway reprise their roles in this sequel to the 2006 hit film.

May 5·3 min read·572 words

What Carolyn Pours: Etude Pinot Gris 2022

A clear day in a glass.

May 5·3 min read·525 words

Rural-Focused $42 Billion Broadband Equity, Access and Deployment Program Becomes Operational

Early signs of a massive federal broadband expansion effort are beginning to reach local communities.

May 5·1 min read·26 words

Federal agencies haven’t started on Trump order restricting voting by mail, DOJ says

by Jonathan Shorman, Washington State Standard May 4, 2026 Federal agencies say they have yet to take steps to implement President Donald Trump’s executive order restricting voting by mail, as the De…

May 5·1 min read·91 words

WTF Just Happened This Week

Republished from WTF Just Happened Today, a daily newsletter breaking down national news.

May 5·1 min read·18 words

The Color of History: Port Townsend Victorian Festival Sparks Disagreement Over Inclusivity

A Black costumer walked in the same fashion show as a man in a Confederate soldier costume. Her discomfort is prompting big discussions.

Apr 29·1 min read·35 words

Port Townsend Celebrates 2025 Comp Plan

The event featured a time capsule, music and putting greens at Camas Prairie Golf Park.

Apr 29·1 min read·21 words

The Trash Task Force: Ten Years of Grit, Gratitude and Green Hope

With a growing volunteer base, expansion leads to the creation of new chapters.

Apr 29·1 min read·25 words

Sunday Service Starts for Jefferson Transit

Traveling green has never been easier or, with fare-free service, more affordable.

Apr 29·1 min read·18 words

The Little Clinic That Could: Inside the JC MASH Free Clinic

Bayside Housing’s hidden gem in Port Hadlock is redefining community healthcare.

Apr 29·1 min read·22 words

Born to Run? Then You’ll Need to File for Candidacy Between May 4-8

Your neighbors need your leadership.

Apr 29·1 min read·18 words

Superior Criminal Court April 24, 2026: The Cycles of Crime and Poverty, and the Role of the Courts in Prevention

Financial struggles and failures to appear in court daunt local defendants facing charges.

Apr 29·1 min read·33 words

Big Screen Views: The Drama

The bride-to-be is not what they seem in this dark comedy.

Apr 29·3 min read·556 words

At-Risk Communities Shortchanged by Rural Health Transformation Program, Research Shows

Rural communities with high mortality rates won’t get their fair share of funding from Congress’ Rural Health Transformation Program, a new study shows.

Apr 29·1 min read·33 words

Whatcom County stands out as hotspot for ICE activity

Recent numbers from local governments and nonprofits provide a picture of ICE activity in Whatcom County, some of which appears to be illegal under state law.

Apr 29·1 min read·35 words

Bayside Housing & Services Marks 10 Years of Hope

Bayside celebrates 500,000 nights of safety, 80,000 hot meals, and housing 420 individuals.

Apr 21·1 min read·22 words

Opinion: Farms, Housing and Who Gets to Be Urgent

Planning Commissioner Dylan Quarles shares his thoughts on the role of capacity and prioritization in amending the comp plan

Apr 21·1 min read·28 words

Port Townsend Council Rejects 2026 Farm Amendment, Offers 2027 Path Forward

Urban farmers compete for planning staff time with affordable housing measures during the Growth Management Act appeal on the city work docket.

Apr 21·1 min read·33 words

Fire Concerns Lead County to Consider Fireworks Ban

Unpermitted fireworks displays to be banned for the Fourth of July, 2027.

Apr 21·1 min read·20 words

Despite Defendant Challenges, Treatment Continues to Provide Pathway To Better Life

Superior Court sees benefits for those who seek help through programs.

Apr 21·1 min read·22 words

Centrum Invites Participants to Feel the Blues in Their Whole Bodies

The new Blues Dance Track teaches moves to everyone, regardless of experience level.

Apr 21·6 min read·1159 words

Beyond the Black Brute: How Platonic Touch is Healing America’s Undertouched Black Men

In an era of male loneliness epidemics, a documentary project is asking men to do something radical: hold each other.

Apr 21·1 min read·33 words

Should hunting be allowed for mountain goats?

The Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife’s game management plan provides new guidance for conserving the iconic Western Washington animal.

Apr 21·1 min read·27 words

WA Fish and Wildlife panel confronts high tensions and harsh testimony

An investigation and a lawsuit fueled sharper comments at a meeting last week. There were renewed calls for commissioners to resign and the agency director to be fired.

Apr 21·1 min read·39 words

Letter to the Editor: Seeking Rotary Grant Applications

The Rotary Club of Port Townsend gives grants of up to $5,000 to local nonprofits

Apr 21·1 min read·23 words

Poet Gary Lemons Remembers Jim Whittaker, Who Died Last Week at Age 97

The Port Townsend-based mountaineer was pivotal in establishing the Northwest Maritime Center.

Apr 15·1 min read·25 words

Colin Foden, KPTZ Co-founder, Dies at 77

Foden was well loved as a local radio visionary and for his dry wit.

Apr 15·1 min read·21 words

City Council Extends Winter Welcoming Center Lease by Four Days

Offering more time would require zoning changes and cancelled Pope Marine Building reservations.

Apr 15·1 min read·23 words

Port Townsend Schools Face Budget Cuts

How State Shortfalls and Federal Cuts Are Reaching Port Townsend Classrooms.

Apr 15·1 min read·17 words

County Parks Will Continue Operating Through 2026

Jefferson County Commissioners Vote to Fund Parks Through 2026 While Pursuing Long-Term Levy.

Apr 15·1 min read·20 words

Superior Criminal Court April 10, 2026: Drug Related Offenses, Sentencing Alternatives, and Believe in Recovery

Alternative sentences and chances for change.

Apr 15·1 min read·21 words

Attention Ornithophiles: Birdbrains Wings its Way to PT

Book celebrating birds with poetry, prose and illustration to be guest at popular Kaleidoscope Open Mic.

Apr 15·5 min read·867 words

Feral Feelings: The Breakup Rollercoaster

A reader who feels belted into a bad breakup loop wants to know how to get off this crazy ride.

Apr 15·6 min read·1003 words

Chlorophyll Corner: Be Ungovernable Like the Dandelion

The humble Dandelion is oft overlooked despite it's lessons in resilience and healing.

Apr 15·1 min read·20 words

Work underway to create new WA housing agency

A task force is in the early stages of planning for the Department of Housing, with recommendations due later this year.

Apr 15·1 min read·29 words

Happy Local News Day

Editor Nhatt Nichols and KPTZ board chair Jon Pinnow sit down to discuss the importance of local news on the first ever Local News Day

Apr 9·1 min read·29 words

City Council Rejects AHPT Settlement

City Moves to Craft Counteroffer in Comp Plan Appeal

Apr 7·6 min read·1144 words

City Council Moves Forward on Improvements for Buildings, Streets and Website design

Winter Warming Shelter to be discussed later in April.

Apr 7·4 min read·653 words

Superior Criminal Court, April 3, 2026: Diversion Agreement, Transfers, Treatment, and Arraignments

Different entities work together to support those standing trial.

Apr 7·1 min read·21 words

Letter from the Editor: The Beacon and AI

Beacon Editor Nhatt Nichols shares our AI Policy, and what it means for the Beacon.

Apr 7·1 min read·23 words

Letter to the Editor: Remembering Marty David

His loss brings questions on the importance of community and legacy.

Apr 7·1 min read·18 words

Digital Artist Invites Viewers to a Free Demo at Northwind

Experience artist Lucia Enriquez’s luminous blues, and try making your own digital painting.

Apr 7·1 min read·23 words

What Carolyn Pours: Bewitched Russian River Pinot Noir 2023

Your perfect Tuesday dinner wine won't change your life but it will save some money.

Apr 7·1 min read·24 words

Bring All of Your Soft Feelings and get Ready to Sparkle With LIZN’BOW

Video artist team present their new work, Novelas de Niñas.

Apr 7·1 min read·23 words

Centrum Presents Poetry on the Salish Sea’s April Reading

“As my eyes search the prairie, I feel the summer in the spring.” – Chippewa song.

Apr 7·1 min read·25 words

Latest ICE data shows surge in immigration arrests in WA

Just a quarter of those arrested between October and early March had criminal records, according to new data.

Apr 7·1 min read·28 words

Big Screen Views: Tow Finds Empathy in a Hard Reality

Regardless of if you prefer dark comedies or full-on dramas, this film is a salve of hope.

Apr 7·4 min read·658 words

Scrub-a-dub dump: Legislature not ready to set sail with ship exhaust crackdown

Exhaust scrubbers can generate unseen water pollution; impact on Salish Sea disputed.

Apr 7·1 min read·24 words

Jefferson County’s $5.2 Million Deficit Explained

General fund prioritizes mandated spending.

Apr 1·1 min read·11 words

Art + History Museum Presents Variations on the Theme of ‘Home’, Edifice Reopens This Weekend

Newly reimagined museum provides better access alongside new displays.

Apr 1·1 min read·24 words

Superior Criminal Court, March 27, 2026: State Approved Resolutions and Positive Review Hearing

JEFFERSON COUNTY, WA — Criminal court had a typical series of dates set out for further discussions. The state was agreeable to several resolutions, no warrants were issued, and the process of recover…

Apr 1·1 min read·96 words

Much Ado About Nothing Brings Joy to Complicated Relationships

A fun final romp into Shakespeare before director Genevieve Barlow departs.

Apr 1·1 min read·20 words

Opinion: Kill the Resort. Build the Town.

This has never been about economic development in Brinnon

Apr 1·1 min read·16 words

No Kings Rally Brought Community Solidarity

Costumes, witty, signs and beautiful vocals featured in the third No Kings Protest

Apr 1·1 min read·19 words

24th District Unites To Pass The Millionaire's Tax While Dems Split On Universal Healthcare

While Washington successfully passed the Millionaire’s Tax to shield citizens from federal healthcare cuts, the path to unite the party on universal healthcare remains blocked by corporate-funded "gat…

Apr 1·1 min read·42 words

Developers Pitch Community-Owned Future for Discovery Bay as Neighbors Weigh Conservation Path

Information sessions held on March 30-31 as competing visions for historic golf course property come into focus.

Apr 1·1 min read·29 words

Curtain Rises on Flagler Theater Renovation

by Kathie Meyer MARROWSTONE- Fort Flagler State Park – a 1,451 acre piece of Marrowstone Island that guarantees spell-binding natural drama for wildlife enthusiasts – is now home to drama of the thes…

Apr 1·1 min read·84 words

45-Story Skyscraper Approved for Golf Park Site; Rooftop Pool to Solve Aquatic Destination Issue

Current "residents" to receive majority of parking in preservation effort

Apr 1·1 min read·24 words

Mysterious Piper Agrees to Fund Rec Center

Promises new flute and rodent-based youth programs

Apr 1·1 min read·14 words

Local Eagle Adopts Uptown Lifestyle

Condo owner Elizabeth Ross is delighted with her feathery roommate

Apr 1·1 min read·15 words

Mollusk Invasion Leads to Impromptu Cookout

When hundreds of chewy sea creatures washed up on North Beach, locals responded by firing up the BBQ

Apr 1·1 min read·24 words

Shed Boy Becomes Shed Man

Who knew electricity and insulation could be this life-affirming?

Apr 1·1 min read·14 words

Community Packs Chambers to Fight Jefferson County Parks & Rec Cuts

Community donations may save the Port Townsend Rec Center and more.

Mar 24·1 min read·22 words

Upgraded Digs for Dogs (and Dog Owners) Coming To Mountain View Dog Park

New trees and shelter are intended to make for a more pleasant experience.

Mar 24·1 min read·26 words

Youth in the System and Organizing Towards Court Compliance

With support, young adults works towards case dismissal and self-reliant future.

Mar 24·1 min read·20 words

Superior Court March 20, 2026: Dismissals and Fee Waivers

Court takes into account the impact of debt on those with low-incomes.

Mar 24·1 min read·21 words

Marriage License Fee Increase to Go to Victim Advocacy Fund

Cuts to domestic violence support funds necessitate new programs.

Mar 24·1 min read·19 words

Finnriver Stays True to its “Absurd” Mission Through Bumpy Times

Jefferson County’s favorite tipple strives to provide interconnectedness and joy, but the business side is more complicated.

Mar 24·1 min read·27 words

Best of Comedy Competition Finalists Head for Port Townsend

Give yourself the gift of laughter with two very talented comedians.

Mar 24·1 min read·20 words

Project Hail Mary: A Spacey Buddy Movie

A (mostly) light-hearted adventure that’s a must-see on the big screen.

Mar 24·4 min read·630 words

Help Us Shape our Election Coverage

We want to know what you value in candidates and policies

Mar 23·1 min read·17 words

The Benji Project Launches Spring Art Intensive to Boost Youth Creativity and Support Mental Health

This free program will culminate in a public event, and a whole lot of fun.

Mar 18·1 min read·30 words

An Open Letter: No Kings Day and the Connectivity Fair

No Kings organizers Indivisible and Connectivity Summit's organizer the Production Alliance, come together to encourage people to show up for connection and against tyranny

Mar 18·1 min read·34 words

Quilcene Stabbing Leads to Arrest for Attempted Murder

Samantha Mardock allegedly stabbed her father hours after telling Port Townsend Police she was afraid she would kill him.

Mar 18·1 min read·27 words

Port Townsend Secures Major Grant for New Skatepark Mural

Creative District receives $30,000 from Washington State Arts Commission.

Mar 18·1 min read·18 words

City Council Meeting March 16, 2026

Angela Downs reports on the Port Townsend City Council meeting on March 16.

Mar 18·1 min read·19 words

Superior Court March 13: Domestic Violence, Recovery, and Jury Summons

Angela Downs reports on Jefferson County Superior Court activity from March 13, 2026.

Mar 18·1 min read·23 words

Local Bookstores Show Their Faith in Port Townsend Readers

Imprint Bookshop, William James Bookseller and Winter Texts are all heralding a new golden literary age for Jefferson County.

Mar 18·1 min read·28 words

A Herd of Animals and Wild Paintings Converge at Northwind Art

Artists Randy Sturgis and Peter Koronakos exhibit “playful and serious" sculptures and paintings together.

Mar 18·1 min read·25 words

Chlorophyll Corner: Poplar — The Tree who Speaks the Language of Streams

Chlorophyll Corner is a monthly column exploring the cultural, ecological, and medicinal relationships between people and plants. Grounded in ethnobotany and the One Health model, it examines how trad…

Mar 18·1 min read·52 words

Citizen Screen: Port Townsend at the Oscars

Danni McClelland highlights Port Townsend's connection to the Oscars and interviews executive producer D.D. Wigley.

Mar 18·1 min read·22 words

What Carolyn Pours: Villa Maria Sauvignon Blanc 2024

Carolyn doesn't balk at a grassy, citrusy, New Zealand sauvignon blanc, even if it's only early Spring!

Mar 18·1 min read·25 words

Community Mourns Beloved OCEAN Student

One dead, three injured in collision involving Jefferson Transit bus.

Mar 10·1 min read·15 words

Poetry on the Salish Sea and Centrum present to you: A Reminder of What Your Job is Not

Centrum’s Melissa O’Neil shares her thoughts on poetry in a dangerous world.

Mar 10·1 min read·30 words

The State of the City Annual Address to the People of Port Townsend

City cites success and identifies need for stronger budget communication.

Mar 10·1 min read·23 words

How an Appeal from Homeowners Could Derail Port Townsend's Housing Plan

Affordable housing may take longer than originally anticipated.

Mar 10·1 min read·19 words

Leaders of Governmental Agencies Re-start Process to Build Economic Vitality

Building relationships and trust seen as vital to crafting an economic framework as the county’s economic viability hangs in the balance.

Mar 10·1 min read·31 words

Superior Court March 6: The Mental Health Element and Cognitive Decline

Jefferson County Superior Court proceedings and updates.

Mar 10·1 min read·18 words

Restorative Justice Facilitated Dialogues (RJFD) in the Justice System

New program encourages dialogue and accountability for crime.

Mar 10·1 min read·17 words

Port Townsend Historian Susan Ferentinos Appointed to Smithsonian Board

Ferentinos brings inclusive history to the national stage.

Mar 10·1 min read·17 words

Life is sweet on “Calle Málaga”

Diane Urbani de la Paz shares her latest big screen movie review.

Mar 10·1 min read·18 words

Soundcheck Sunday: Movement and Poetry

The last day of Soundcheck created spaces for everyone to be their best artist selves.

Mar 4·1 min read·20 words

From Art Catalyst to Legacy Maker: Five Awards Presented in Soundcheck Kickoff

Artists of all types honored at this year's Port Townsend Arts Awards.

Mar 4·1 min read·24 words

The Little Bookshop That Could: How Port Townsend’s Volunteers Are Writing a Love Story to Their Library

The Friends Bookshop reopened on March 2, 2026.

Mar 4·1 min read·25 words

The Jefferson County Food Bank Association Emerges Stronger From Bumpy Transition

The food bank is serving more community members than ever before while supporting local food producers.

Mar 4·1 min read·27 words

Assault, Burglary and Theft—and Ongoing Recovery

This week, our justice beat is old enough that we are able to start following cases through the legal system.

Mar 4·1 min read·26 words

City Council: Police Annual Report and Emergency Repair Success

The Port Townsend Police Department gives their Annual Report and more in the March 2, 2026 Port Townsend City Council meeting.

Mar 4·1 min read·30 words

Feral Feelings: That “Witchy” Feeling

A Pagan curious reader writes with questions about nurturing their inner witch and how to bridge the divide between personal traditions and family inherited beliefs.

Mar 4·1 min read·30 words

Welcome to Soundcheck!

The Beacon's Youth Reporting Lab, Arts Reporter Diane Urbani de la Paz and Editor Nhatt Nichols bring you the best of Soundcheck as it happens

Feb 27·1 min read·28 words

Petition Threatens to Stall Port Townsend’s Housing Progress, Though Plan Remains in Effect for Now

Critics say appeal aimed at blocking density could worsen the housing crisis, as the city confirms zoning changes remain active during review.

Feb 25·1 min read·37 words

Port Townsend Council Charts Course for Mixed-Income at Evans Vista

Council directs staff to prioritize economic diversity in development solicitation, and seeks community amenities.

Feb 25·1 min read·24 words

Competing for Community Centers

North Hood Canal Chamber Challenges OlyCAP's Longtime Hold on Jefferson County Centers.

Feb 25·1 min read·16 words

Improv Helps With Uncertain Times at Rec Center

Olympic Improv brings a sense of community fun and good mental health to all.

Feb 25·1 min read·22 words

Superior Court: Community Service, Assault, and Child Abuse

Court cases and trial updates for the week.

Feb 25·1 min read·16 words

City Council February 17, 2026: Utilities, Roads, and Evans Vista

City planning department floats idea to lessen utility costs for urban farms and adopts 2026 Local Road Safety Plan.

Feb 25·1 min read·29 words

The Goat, the Panther and the Basketball Player

If you need an high-energy underdog story for the whole family, this film’s got your GOAT.

Feb 25·1 min read·24 words

Contagious cancer poses possible threat to Salish Sea clams

Researchers monitor rare transmissible cancers spreading through two local species.

Feb 25·1 min read·19 words

Sailboat Explosion in Port Townsend Results in Hospitalization of Two Individuals and Rescue of Dog

A sailboat explosion in Glen Cove led to two individuals being airlifted to Harborview Medical Center with severe burn injuries.

Feb 18·1 min read·35 words

Port Townsend Moves to Preserve Tree That Bears Witness to a Lynching

Historic landmark designation process begins for a Douglas Fir where a Chemakum man, Kia-a-han, was hanged in the 19th century.

Feb 18·1 min read·32 words

Jefferson County Affordable Housing Project Gets Major Boost with Nearly $2.5 Million in Grants

State and federal funding will support Habitat for Humanity's ambitious Mason Street Neighborhood development.

Feb 18·1 min read·28 words

Quimper Grange Goes to its Roots With Fundraiser for Flood-Affected Farms

Event at Quimper Grange raises funds to help Skagit Farmers.

Feb 18·1 min read·21 words

Prosecutor’s Office and Therapeutic Courts Worry About Long-Term Impacts of Health Care Cuts

With medical and therapeutic support, individuals are finding ways to break the cycle of crime and create new lives.

Feb 18·1 min read·32 words

Chlorophyll Corner: A Moment for Grief with Hawthorn

Chlorophyll Corner is a monthly column exploring the cultural, ecological, and medicinal relationships between people and plants. Grounded in ethnobotany and the One Health model, it examines how trad…

Feb 18·1 min read·48 words

Dove House Faces Federal Grant Funding Challenges

News by Angela Downs The only Crime Victim Service Center in Jefferson County, WA, Dove House Advocacy Services, is facing funding loss from grant changes and lack of criminal fee collections.  Dove…

Feb 18·1 min read·83 words

District Court Successes in the LEAD program, DV and Custody

Alternatives to traditional justice system models prove a valuable tool to help people get back on their feet and stay out of jail.

Feb 11·1 min read·33 words

Jefferson County, WA Sets a Course for 2045 With Comprehensive Plan Update

County officials begin tackling their plan for the county’s growth, particularly in the Urban Growth Areas of Irondale and Port Townsend.

Feb 11·1 min read·33 words

Court System Finds Success and Failures with New Domestic Violence Legislation

Judge Brandon Mack explains the role of the different courts in DV cases, and the importance of restorative justice.

Feb 11·1 min read·30 words

What Keeps the City Flowing—Water, Recycling, and Sewage Discussed at City Council Workshop

Rate increases, infrastructure challenges and economic disparity were on the docket for this week’s workshop.

Feb 11·1 min read·28 words

Chimacum Creek Primary School Sets a High Bar, and Delivers Excellent Results

Chimacum school supports early childhood education while facing potential state funding cuts.

Feb 11·1 min read·24 words

Art and Life at Northwind: Art Beyond the Imagination

A gallery is a living organism, made brighter by the art, artists and viewers who enter.

Feb 11·1 min read·25 words

Poetry on the Salish Sea and Centrum present to you: The Language of Love, A Valentine’s Day Reading

Poet Melissa O’Neil shares her thoughts on love ahead of a special Valentine’s Day reading by her and 13 other poets.

Feb 11·1 min read·39 words

Centrum Signs 35 Year Lease with State Parks

As part of Centrum’s long-term planning, Executive Director Rob Birman plans a shift to a new role .

Feb 11·1 min read·26 words

Big-Screen Views: The Choral

Looking for a film that tackles the role of art in a small town during difficult times? The Choral may be just what you’re looking for.

Feb 3·4 min read·696 words