Charlie Bermant

Nov 21, 2023 | ptleader.com | Charlie Bermant

There will be one less THING to do in Port Townsend next summer. The Seattle Theater Group (STG), which sponsored three versions of its boutique music and arts fair at Fort Worden State Park, announced last week that it was pulling the festival from Port Townsend. The event, which will still be known as THING, will take place at another location in 2024 “with the same spirit and philosophy,” according to a company spokesperson.

Nov 16, 2023 | ptleader.com | Charlie Bermant

Eleven years after Washington voters approved the use of recreational cannabis it is still a work in progress, but one where its benefits can balance the pitfalls. Users are grateful for the access to product and the elimination of legal penalties, while merchants and legislators are often stymied by complicated rules and how to streamline the process.  “It’s damn near impossible to stay in business,” said Travis Morgan, who owns and operates Sea Change Cannabis in Port Hadlock.

Nov 15, 2023 | ptleader.com | Charlie Bermant

A new rideshare program is intended to provide lower-income citizens with access to a vehicle and decrease the area’s carbon footprint. The program has been in operation for several months but was commemorated with a ribbon cutting on Wednesday that drew about 30 people from the Port Townsend City Government, the Chamber of Commerce, OlyCAP, and other agencies.

Nov 9, 2023 | ptleader.com | Charlie Bermant

Jefferson County Commissioner Kate Dean is weighing a congressional campaign following US Rep. Derek Kilmer’s announcement that he will not seek another term. “I’ve always wanted to be in Congress and I’ve always wanted this job,” Dean said of the open seat. “It’s where a lot of important issues are playing out. I’ve always been drawn to the larger policy issues. And Congress is a fascinating place, even as it is dysfunctional.” It’s already an uphill battle.

Nov 7, 2023 | ptleader.com | Charlie Bermant

Port Townsend is better prepared than many other places for the crisis posed by climate change, according to those tasked with addressing the issue. Still, some dangers could threaten the community sooner than later. “There are two angles to climate action,” said Port Townsend City Council Member Owen Rowe, a member of the Climate Action Committee.