Latest News in Olympia, WA

Shop, Dine, Explore and Bank LocOly It Means More for You and Your Wallet

Locally-owned businesses in downtown Olympia thrive with support from OlyFed, a community bank that fosters local economic growth. Banking locally allows residents to invest in their community while participating in initiatives like the Two-Cent Campaign, which funds local nonprofits through debit card transactions. Business owners emphasize the importance of local banking in strengthening the economy and supporting entrepreneurship.

The Evergreen State College Alumnus Kwabi Amoah-Forson Tells 2025 Graduates to Remain Hopeful and Empower People in Need

Kwabi Amoah-Forson, a 2015 graduate of The Evergreen State College, emphasizes hope and empowerment during his keynote speech at the college's 53rd commencement ceremony. He founded the "All Youth Can Eat" summer food program, which has fed over 3,000 young people, and promotes peace through his initiative, The Peace Bus.

New Restaurant in Downtown Olympia Opening Soon

Altitude 15, a new food hall in downtown Olympia, will feature four distinct eateries and a spacious community environment. Owners Cher and Mike Hobbick aim to create a culinary hub that supports local chefs and fosters community interaction. The venue includes a play area for children and unique artistic elements throughout.

South Sound Parent to Parent Invites Community to Join Them in Recognizing Disability Pride Month in July

South Sound Parent to Parent (SSP2P) will celebrate Disability Pride Month this July, marking its 10-year anniversary nationally. The organization emphasizes the importance of accommodations for people with disabilities, highlighting their contributions to the community. Executive Director Kim Smith advocates for increased awareness and inclusion, particularly as federal programs face potential cuts.

71 North Thurston Public Schools Students Earn Seal of Biliteracy This School Year

Seventy-one students from North Thurston Public Schools earned the Washington State Seal of Biliteracy this year, recognizing their proficiency in world languages. Students can achieve this distinction through class credits or competency-based assessments, reflecting diverse linguistic backgrounds. Notable earners include Hoang Tran, Megan Kipp, and Eli Andino Herrera, who showcased their language skills in Vietnamese, French, and Spanish, respectively.

Unique Pop-Up Vendor Brings Dirty Sodas to Olympia Area

Saylor’s Dirty Sodas, a new pop-up vendor in Olympia, offers a playful twist on traditional beverages by combining soda with various add-ins. Owner Julie Shryne aims to provide a fun, family-friendly alternative to coffee, focusing on refreshing, customizable drinks. The unique offerings have quickly gained popularity at local events, celebrating creativity and community.

Vigil held for boy who died from fentanyl exposure

A vigil was held for a 5-year-old boy who died from acute fentanyl toxicity, as determined by the medical examiner. Community members gathered to honor his memory and raise awareness about the dangers of fentanyl exposure.

'It's tragic he isn't here' Vigil held in Olympia for 5-year-old who died from fentanyl

A vigil at the state capitol honored Brentlee Lawrence, a 5-year-old boy from Pierce County who died from acute fentanyl toxicity while in his mother's care. His aunt, Kelsey Osborne, criticized the Keeping Families Together Act (HB1227), claiming it prevents Child Protective Services from intervening in cases of drug abuse in homes. Osborne urges lawmakers to amend the legislation to protect children from imminent harm.

Tenino Moves Historic Train Depot, 1975

Tenino officials moved the historic train depot to City Park in 1975 after Burlington Northern offered the building for $1. The community rallied to raise funds, ultimately securing $100,000 for the relocation and renovation, transforming it into the Tenino Depot Museum. The move became a local landmark event, celebrated during the annual Labor Day festival.

From Forest to Bottle Woodborne Spirits turns Chanterelles into Award-Winning Gin and Vodka

Woodborne Spirits in Tumwater crafts award-winning gin and vodka using locally foraged chanterelle mushrooms. Founded by Jason Bishop in collaboration with distillers Ray Watson and Lesa Givens, the distillery has quickly gained recognition, winning seven medals in national competitions. Their spirits celebrate the Pacific Northwest’s unique flavors while honoring traditional foraging practices.