Latest News in Olympia, WA

New lawsuit accuses Commissioner Clouse of sexual harassment, retaliation against aide

A lawsuit has been filed against Thurston County Commissioner Emily Clouse, alleging sexual harassment and retaliation against her former executive aide. The suit seeks damages and attorney fees, following a prior complaint and an internal investigation that resulted in Clouse's suspension from certain duties, although she remains a voting member of the Board of County Commissioners. The county has not disclosed the investigation's findings.

Parshley’s seat on Olympia council is up for grabs for 2025 | The Olympian

The Olympia City Council is accepting applications for Position #5, which will be vacated by council member Lisa Parshley as she transitions to the State Legislature. Applications are due by December 13 and must include a resume and proof of voter registration.

New lawsuit accuses Commissioner Clouse of sexual harassment, retaliation against aide

A lawsuit has been filed against Thurston County by a former executive aide of Commissioner Emily Clouse, alleging sexual harassment and retaliation. The complaint details claims of a hostile work environment and coercive behavior, leading to a request for damages. Clouse has been suspended from certain duties amid ongoing investigations.

Thousands of trout headed for Offutt Lake lost when delivery truck overturns

A Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife truck overturned on its way to Offut Lake, resulting in the loss of over 7,500 fingerling rainbow trout. Although this incident delayed the stocking project for Black Friday, the department successfully delivered 2,000 fish later and plans to replace the lost stock.

Thousands of trout headed for Offutt Lake lost when delivery truck overturns

Over 7,500 fingerling rainbow trout were lost when a Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife truck overturned while delivering fish to Offut Lake in Thurston County. The driver suffered minor injuries, but WDFW successfully delivered 2,000 trout later that day and plans to replace the lost fish.

Post-Election Statement from Mayor Dontae Payne

Mayor Dontae Payne thanked Olympia residents for their participation in the recent election and reaffirmed the city council's commitment to local values, emphasizing the importance of civic engagement.

Anniversary Pizza Parties at La Gitana Pizzerias Celebrating 13 and 14 Years

La Gitana Pizzerias in Yelm and Olympia are celebrating their 13th and 14th anniversaries with a three-day pizza party offering 50% off large pizzas from December 2-4, 2024. The event aims to thank the community for their support, featuring live jazz music in Olympia during the celebration. La Gitana, awarded the Gold Medal for Best Pizza in South Sound 2024, is known for its award-winning wood-fired pizzas made with organic ingredients.

Patty Murray Urges Students to Complete Simplified FAFSA for Increased Financial Aid

U.S. Senator Patty Murray is encouraging students to complete the newly simplified FAFSA form, which has reduced its questions from 103 to just 18-20. This change aims to make the application process quicker and more accessible, ultimately increasing financial aid eligibility for students in Washington state.

Kava Bar Comes to Olympia Golden Hour Exotic Tea is a New Experience

Golden Hour Exotic Tea has opened as Olympia's third Kava bar, offering a unique, non-alcoholic social space for locals. Owner Chadd Cate aims to create a community gathering place that serves health-focused drinks, including organic teas and Irish sea moss, while facilitating connections among patrons.

Arctic Fox Rescued in Oregon Finds New Forever Home in Wisconsin

An Arctic fox rescued in Oregon is set to find a new home at Ochsner Park Zoo in Wisconsin. The fox, known for its striking snowy white fur, will be cared for by veterinarians at the Oregon Zoo until its relocation on November 14, 2024.