Special announcement: Weekly Volcano is printing our newspaper weekly now. Only 2000 papers will be printed per week. For a list of locations to pick one up, CLICK HERE. To read all the stories online CLICK HERE.
Arts & Entertainment
- Tacoma Wayzgoose Returns May 2nd & 3rd to Main Branch of Tacoma Public Library
- Tacoma Wayzgoose is a community letterpress, printmaking, and book arts extravaganza. Meet local printers and view their wares, print your own keepsakes, make paper and bind books. A highlight of the weekend is steamroller printing, where local artists carve 2 x 3-foot sheets of linoleum and print on giant paper. They are looking for a few more volunteers to help out around their schedule for the weekend. Check out the information here.
- The Museum of Glass Hosting Upcoming Workshops to Create Your Own Works of Art in Glass
- Glass Tile Workshop, Full Fusing – May 10 & 11. Working with cold, flat glass sheets and decorative elements, fusing allows you to layer glass pieces together into a design of your own. Create a 4×4 inch glass tile by collaging together sheet glass, pasta-like stringers, and powdered glass. Once your design is complete it will be fired in our electric kiln to produce a solid, smooth work of art. Reserve Your Spot.
- By the Furnace Hot Shop Experience, Birds – May 24 & 25. Here is your chance to work on the Hot Shop floor! Assisted by instructors from Hilltop Artists, you will create your own glass float. As the gaffer, you will be able to choose colors, block and shape the glass, and add your own twist to the work of art. Reserve Your Spot.
- You Are Invited to a Beltane Seed Bomb Ceremony 5/3
- On Saturday, May 3rd from 3-5 pm, you are invited to a Beltane ceremony celebrating the nourishment and medicine offered by our plant kin and the return of warmer weather. We are upcycling the tradition by holding space for rituals that speak to the time we are living in today. You will experience a plant-based buffet of seasonal snacks, movement, music, meditation, visualization, and community connections while we collaborate on making seed bombs, full of seeds from Northwest native medicinal plants and other plant allies. RSVP here.
- The Painted Crow Presents: Creative Flight, Freeing the Spirit Through Intuitive Process Painting
- Using simple tools like tempera paint and paper, this series of classes is so much more than simply the practice of painting. Give yourself the gift of time for yourself without expectations; let your creativity thrive in a space free of judgement; get out of your head and into your heart; connect with other creative, loving souls; don’t fight with your inner critics, dance with them! You can register for May 2025 classes with a Saturday or a Tuesday option. The cost for each 4-class series is $130, all materials are provided, all levels of experience and inexperience welcome. Classes will meet in Studio B on the second floor of 2926 S Steele St in Tacoma.
- The Things They Brought Home, Vietnam Veteran’s Memories Exhibit at WSHM
- Marking 50 years since the end of the Vietnam War, this exhibition honors the experiences of Washington’s Vietnam Veterans through a collection of personal objects, stories, and film. It was curated by Lt. Col Erik Flint (US Army, Retired), former Director of the Lewis Army Museum and military historian, Dr. Megan Nishikawa, PhD. The exhibit is set to run until November. See the other active exhibits at the Washington State History Museum.
Neighborhood News
- Pierce County Humane Society Gets A New Mobile Vet Clinic
- The SPOT (spay/neuter, preventative medicine, outreach and transport) mobile unit will include targeted trap and neuter programs, but will also be utilized by mobile pet adoption services. The unit will allow the Humane Society will expand into the wider community to service animals that may not have access to traditional medical services. Beyond the acronym, SPOT represents a commitment to equity, access and compassionate care. It’s more than just equipment on wheels, it’s a tool for community connection. It’s about showing up for the people and pets in need and breaking down that barrier of transportation. The 26 foot vehicle was funded by generous donations from the community, with the Puyallup Tribe issuing a $30,000 matching donation toward the goal in 2024. Inside the mobile clinic there is a small prep station with sterilization equipment and surgical equipment. The array of kennels along the walls can house 17 animals for pre-surgery holding. The surgery suite is at the rear of the vehicle. Watch for upcoming programs or opportunities involving SPOT here.
- Your Opportunity to Comment on Pierce County Human Services Use of Federal Funds
Pierce County Human Services invites the public to review and comment on the 2025–2029 Consolidated Plan, now available for public review through May 7.
This plan outlines how federal funds from HUD programs, including the Community Development Block Grant (CDBG), HOME Investment Partnership (HOME), and Emergency Solutions Grant (ESG) will be used to support lower-income individuals, families, and communities across unincorporated Pierce County and its Consortium Cities and Towns. Learn more and view the full plan here: https://bit.ly/3GrnP1O
Local Governance
- The 2025 Legislative Session Has Adjourned. Here’s What We Know
- In the 110 days since the legislative session commenced on January 13th, lawmakers have navigated numerous challenges, leading some to describe the session as particularly grueling. Governor Bob Ferguson, who assumed office on January 15, oversaw a Capitol marked by intense policy debates and widespread public demonstrations. A special session may need to be called if Ferguson doesn’t approve the lawmakers’ final operating budget, but he will have to review that in the coming weeks. HB 1217 would limit annual rent increases to 7% plus inflation, or 10% (whichever is lower) and 5% for manufactured homes. Another bill would allow workers on strike to receive unemployment insurance for up to 6 weeks. Some lawmakers pushed for Rainier School for people with developmental and intellectual disabilities, to close. There was even a lawmaker that was prohibited from returning to the chamber following an outburst about the parental bill of rights. You can see all of the bills and actions that Governor Ferguson takes on them here.
- The 2024 Affordable Housing Action Strategy Highlights Are Released, Here’s How They Did
- The Affordable Housing Action Strategy is a City-wide effort to address the housing affordability crisis with 27 strategic actions to help ease the burden of high housing costs. The 2024 Affordable Housing Action Strategy Highlights were just released to share the progress that’s being made. 545 affordable housing units constructed; 24 low-income homes preserved; 811 Tacoma shelter residents exited to housing. Check out more of the highlights here.
Business & Opportunities
- Construction Tool Drive Initiative Helps Next Generation of Trades Workers
- The Construction Tool Drive Initiative is a community powered effort designed to equip entry level construction workers and apprentices with the essential tools they need to succeed. Too often, new workers face a significant financial barrier; the cost of purchasing the required tools and safety gear. The burden can prevent qualified individuals, especially those from under-resourced backgrounds or justice-involved situations from starting their career strong. By organizing this tool drive, it will hopefully eliminate that barrier. This initiative not only strengthens the local work force, but also supports businesses in attracting job-ready talent, builds equity in the trades, and fosters collaboration across labor unions, construction companies, workforce organizations and community partners. If you would like to support this initiative, you can discuss partnership opportunities to ensure workers have access to the tools they need.
- Booth Vendor Applications are Open for Tacoma Pride 2025
- Save the Date for Tacoma Pride: July 12th, 2025. Don’t forget to save the date for Tacoma Pride: July 12th, 2025! Vending at Tacoma Pride is an incredible opportunity to connect with over ten thousand community members from all over the South Puget Sound area! We are looking for food trucks, craft/retail businesses, and nonprofits to come contribute to our celebration of the LGBTQ+ community here in Tacoma. https://forms.gle/J3XpbDY2SSTiGYsk6 Please note that applying does NOT guarantee a booth at Tacoma Pride. Staff will be reviewing applications and will notify applicants of their status in mid-May. If you have any issues with the form, please don’t hesitate to reach out to at vendors@rainbowcntr.org. Please allow 24 hours for us to return any inquiries. If you’re interested in potentially sponsoring Tacoma Pride, there are some sponsorship packages available that come with a booth! Reach out at sponsors@rainbowcntr.org to collaborate on a fantastic Pride this year!
Recreation & Wellness
- HearMeWA is a New App for WA Youth to Access Help
- Youth and young adults in Washington state are able to access a free, 24/7 helpline to get support that is simple and accessible. HearMeWA was created for youth up to age 25 to get support for a variety of concerns including bullying, anxiety, depression, and more. You can call 888-537-1634, text HearMeWA to 738477 or visit HearMeWA.org to connect with free 24/7 support. If you or a friend are experiencing stress, anxiety, violent threats, sexual abuse—or anything that makes life hard—HearMeWA can help. Get secure, free support any time from professionals who are ready to listen by submitting a tip through the “Get help” button online, calling, texting, or using the app.
- You’re Invited to the South Sound Day of Remembrance Walk on 5/15
- Downtown On the Go and the Washington State Historical Society invite the public to the South Sound Day of Remembrance Walk on Thursday, May 15, 2025, from 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM in downtown Tacoma. The event marks the 83rd anniversary of the forced removal of Japanese Americans from South Puget Sound during World War II. Participants will join a guided historical walking tour highlighting Tacoma’s former Japantown community, hear live performances, and take part in a ceremonial procession honoring those who were displaced. The evening begins at 5:00 PM at Theater on the Square Plaza (917 Broadway) with a tour led by public historians Tamiko Nimura and Michael Sullivan, ending at the Washington State History Museum. A special open house at the Tacoma Buddhist Temple will also be offered along the route. Following the tour, attendees can enjoy a Taiko drum performance by Tacoma Fuji Taiko and participate in a ceremonial walk to Union Station, a historic site connected to Tacoma’s incarceration history. The event is free with registration and open to all. Early registrants will receive commemorative keepsakes, including a limited-edition linocut folio by Yoshi Nakagawa and historic postcards. Alternative ways to engage include a slideshow of the walking tour and access to the free digital exhibition, Tacoma Japantown. To register and learn more, visit https://tinyurl.com/Day-of-Remembrance-Walk
- Downtown On the Go and the Washington State Historical Society invite the public to the South Sound Day of Remembrance Walk on Thursday, May 15, 2025, from 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM in downtown Tacoma. The event marks the 83rd anniversary of the forced removal of Japanese Americans from South Puget Sound during World War II. Participants will join a guided historical walking tour highlighting Tacoma’s former Japantown community, hear live performances, and take part in a ceremonial procession honoring those who were displaced. The evening begins at 5:00 PM at Theater on the Square Plaza (917 Broadway) with a tour led by public historians Tamiko Nimura and Michael Sullivan, ending at the Washington State History Museum. A special open house at the Tacoma Buddhist Temple will also be offered along the route. Following the tour, attendees can enjoy a Taiko drum performance by Tacoma Fuji Taiko and participate in a ceremonial walk to Union Station, a historic site connected to Tacoma’s incarceration history. The event is free with registration and open to all. Early registrants will receive commemorative keepsakes, including a limited-edition linocut folio by Yoshi Nakagawa and historic postcards. Alternative ways to engage include a slideshow of the walking tour and access to the free digital exhibition, Tacoma Japantown. To register and learn more, visit https://tinyurl.com/Day-of-Remembrance-Walk
- Paws Play Launches Dog Adventure Season with May Hikes
Tacoma’s beloved doggie daycare and boarding service, Paws Play, is kicking off its 2024 Adventure Season with two exciting outdoor excursions for pups on Sunday, May 5th and Sunday, May 19th. These all-day outings are designed to give dogs a chance to enjoy nature, socialize, and get some tail-wagging exercise.
Dogs will depart at 9:30 AM sharp for a day filled with fresh air, fun, and furry friends. The cost is $65 per dog, with no additional fees for dogs already on unlimited care packages.
To participate, dogs must have a collar, leash, harness, and be up to date on vaccinations, flea and tick prevention, and have a signed Taxi waiver on file.
With limited space available, Paws Play encourages pet parents to reserve their spots early and give their pups a chance to kick off adventure season the right way.
For more information or to sign up, contact Paws Play Doggie Daycare and Boarding directly. https://www.pawsplayllc.com/
Film & TV Reviews
- Film Review: Daredevil: Born Again by Elizabeth Mulloy
- After nearly seven years since the original Daredevil series ended on Netflix, the Devil of Hell’s Kitchen makes his long-awaited return in Daredevil: Born Again on Disney+. The original show remains a standout in the Marvel Cinematic Universe, praised for its gritty, street-level storytelling that felt more like a crime drama than a typical superhero series. With the move to Disney+, many fans wondered whether that dark, grounded tone would be watered down for a broader audience. Thankfully, the grit remains, but the story doesn’t. Spoilers ahead.
- In case you missed it, Daredevil: Born Again underwent major reshoots after stars Charlie Cox and Vincent D’Onofrio voiced concerns to Kevin Feige about the show’s original direction. Initially conceived as a hard reboot, the series was pitched as a procedural drama with no ties to the Netflix original—an approach that didn’t sit well with either actor. In what can only be described as an act of God, Feige actually listened, halting production and ordering a complete rewrite and reshoot. Unfortunately, the course correction wasn’t enough. The end result feels disjointed and uneven, more like a patchwork than a revival.
- The narrative in Daredevil: Born Again is scattered, a clear casualty of the extensive rewrites. There’s no strong, consistent arc tying the season together, and the story often feels like it’s jumping between ideas. The first episode acts as a soft reboot, reintroducing Matt Murdock (Charlie Cox), who has abandoned his Daredevil persona following Foggy’s murder at the hands of Bullseye. But when Wilson Fisk (Vincent D’Onofrio) is elected mayor, Matt is pulled back into the fight, reigniting the Devil within. What follows is a jarring shift into procedural territory, as Matt takes on the case of a vigilante accused of killing a cop—a storyline wrapped up by episode four. Episode five delivers a standout classic comic book one-shot featuring a tense bank robbery, with Matt forced to act as Daredevil while dressed in civilian clothes. But just as that momentum builds, the show pivots again, this time to a brief arc involving the serial killer Muse, which concludes just one episode later. Finally, in the last two episodes, the show settles into the story it seemingly wanted to tell all along: Fisk turning his mayoral power into a full-blown dictatorship. Unfortunately, by the time it gets there, the path has been so fragmented that the impact is blunted.
- It’s difficult to ignore the narrative disarray at the heart of Daredevil: Born Again. Rather than presenting a unified storyline, the season unfolds as a loosely connected anthology of character moments and subplots, more preoccupied with setting the stage for future seasons than telling a complete and satisfying story in the present. The only throughline that achieves any real cohesion is Wilson Fisk’s arc, which follows his calculated ascent through the political machinery of New York City. In contrast, Matt Murdock, and other characters feel adrift in their narratives. To be clear, many of these standalone episodes work well on their own terms. The standout one-shot episode, in particular, is a thrilling display of tension and craft. But strong individual moments don’t necessarily coalesce into a compelling whole. What emerges instead is a fractured narrative that only begins to find its purpose in the final two episodes, by which point it rushes through key developments in its eagerness to set up what comes next, rather than fully realize the season at hand.
- The fractures in Daredevil: Born Again extend beyond its narrative. The impact of the reshoots and rewrites is equally evident in the filmmaking itself, which varies dramatically in quality from episode to episode. It quickly becomes apparent which installments are remnants of the original production and which are part of the retooled vision. The reshot episodes boast noticeably stronger direction, tighter editing, and a more atmospheric, gritty visual style. The fight choreography in particular stands out—raw, kinetic, and far less staged than what viewers have come to expect from recent Disney+ outings. By contrast, the original episodes feel visually flat and uninspired, echoing the familiar, formulaic look and tone that has come to define much of Marvel’s streaming output. The inconsistency is jarring, and it undermines the show’s ability to establish a distinct aesthetic or rhythm across the season.
- If there’s one element that remains consistently strong throughout Daredevil: Born Again, it’s the ensemble cast. Despite the uneven writing, the performers return to their iconic roles with remarkable ease and conviction. Charlie Cox once again anchors the series with a compelling blend of charm and inner conflict, portraying a Matt Murdock caught in a moral and spiritual crisis as he wrestles with the decision to unleash the Devil once more. Vincent D’Onofrio, meanwhile, elevates the material with a chillingly controlled performance as Wilson Fisk, imbuing the Kingpin with a potent mix of menace, vulnerability, and calculated fury, often surpassing what the script affords him. Furthermore, whenever Cox and D’Onofrio share the screen, their love-hate dynamic crackles with tension and complexity, it’s nothing short of captivating. Jon Bernthal’s return as The Punisher is equally electric, delivering a blood-soaked intensity that feels both cathartic and true to the character’s brutal ethos. The rest of the supporting cast steps up with equal commitment, injecting emotional weight and presence into a show that, narratively, often fails to give them the structure they deserve. In many ways, it’s the strength of the performances alone that holds the series together.
- At its best, Daredevil: Born Again soars, delivering flashes of the brilliance that made the character’s original run so revered. It’s undeniably entertaining, and when it clicks, it truly reminds us why Daredevil remains one of Marvel’s most compelling heroes. But those highs are undercut by a fractured structure and an identity crisis born from behind-the-scenes turmoil. The foundations of something exceptional are there, but the execution never fully capitalizes on its potential. Despite its missteps, there’s still reason for optimism. The performances are strong, the tone is closer to what fans hoped for, and the groundwork is in place. But it’s equally clear that Marvel has yet to fully understand what made the Netflix series so special, gritty storytelling, focused character arcs, and a willingness to let the devil out.
- My Rating: B-
Screenshots: We Scrolled So You Don’t Have To…
Check out our CALENDAR for even more happenings this weekend and beyond!