Liesbeth Powers

A prime slice of the Summit Country Center retail hub on Canyon Road East has traded hands, selling to a California-based family trust for millions.

Tho Tuong BBQ, a Tacoma staple since 1997, has opened its second location in Seattle's International District. Daughter Linh Ngo says the Tacoma shop's roast pork, roast duck and barbecue pork draw the most interest and her father, Phuc, still handles the labor-intensive marinating and roasting himself.

Tacoma has begun a Hilltop project to upgrade sidewalks and lighting between S. Earnest Brazill Street and S. 15th Street, bringing new street furniture, trees and landscaping. Construction runs July through November 2026 and could temporarily reduce parking.

Johnny Hartwell, 32, of Tacoma was arraigned in Pierce County Superior Court after prosecutors upgraded the case to first- and second-degree murder when Curtis Crittenden Sr., 43, died Thursday. Hartwell was initially charged with first-degree assault and had posted $100,000 bail before the victim was taken off life support.

Construction crews are beginning Phase 2 of the Sumner High School upgrade and expansion that will add a new west building with classrooms, CTE spaces and more parking. The work is funded through a voter-approved 2024 bond, with completion targeted for fall 2028.

A new North End spot, Rustico Bakery & Cafe, is under construction with plans for bright windows, neighborhood seating and shelves featuring local makers. Co-owner Kristin Sierra says the menu will highlight homemade cinnamon rolls in multiple flavors and mix-and-match cookie boxes, plus coffee and baked goods on display.

Charlotte's Blueberry Park in South Tacoma is a free you-pick spot with nearly 3,400 blueberry shrubs, and late July through August is peak season. Reporter Becca Most says Parks Tacoma uses no pesticides or fertilizers and asks visitors not to overharvest.

Katie Stricker, Tacoma Arts Live's new CEO, says the nonprofit will focus on arts education and creative activation at The Armory. A former teaching artist who started at the non-profit 19 years ago, Stricker plans to expand the Civil Rights Legacy Tour beyond its current 40 schools and nearly double service in Tacoma Public Schools' Beyond the Bell and Club B programs.

New Tacoma Education Association President Michael Williams and Vice President Ra'Shawn Read say they will push to keep budget cuts away from classrooms while improving transparency around district, state and federal funding.

Tacoma has everything from oversized cinnamon rolls to cream cheese classics and vegan, gluten-free twists. News Tribune and Olympian interns taste-tested reader poll favorites, including The Homestead Restaurant & Bakery, Angela's Restaurant and Wren's Nest Baking Co.