Your trusted source for local Olympia, WA news, updated daily with the most important stories from your community.
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.
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.
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 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.
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.
A Renton couple plans to relocate after enduring years of alleged homophobic harassment in their neighborhood. The couple's experience highlights ongoing issues of discrimination and safety for LGBTQ+ individuals in the area. Local authorities have been alerted to their situation but have yet to provide a definitive response.
The U.S. conducted air strikes on three Iranian nuclear sites amid the ongoing Israel-Iran conflict, with President Trump claiming the attacks effectively destroyed Iran's nuclear capabilities. Washington lawmakers expressed mixed reactions, with some demanding accountability for the strikes while others supported the military action.
Dough Zone will open its 28th location in Lacey, Washington, on June 25, 2025, expanding its reach in the state. Founders Jason and Nancy Zhai aim to connect with the growing community in Thurston County by offering authentic Chinese dumplings and dishes. The restaurant, known for its handmade dumplings, has quickly grown since its inception in 2014.
Arleen Crooks, a dedicated community member in Olympia, founded Meals on Wheels and contributed to various local charities. Born in 1923 in Ohio, she moved to Olympia in 1958 with her family to support her husband's career in forestry. Arleen's commitment to education and community welfare left a lasting impact on her adopted hometown.
Washington's gas tax will rise by six cents on July 1, with annual increases planned to match inflation. New laws also expand estate tax rates and enhance worker protections, including wage equality and immigration-related safeguards. Additional legislation will take effect later in July, including provisions for paid sick leave connected to immigration proceedings.