Your trusted source for local Olympia, WA news, updated daily with the most important stories from your community.
Several restaurants near Olympia will offer Thanksgiving dinner in 2025, providing a variety of dining options for those looking to celebrate without cooking. The article also includes resources for free Thanksgiving dinners, catering to community needs during the holiday season.
Miss Washington 2025 Amber Pike and Miss Washington’s Teen Kendall Runyan actively engage in community service initiatives throughout their year in office. Their commitment includes programs aimed at promoting literacy and assisting local organizations. Both titleholders exemplify leadership and community dedication in their respective roles.
K.A. Cobell, a Native American author from Olympia, won the 2025 Washington State Book Award for Young Adult Literature for her debut novel, "Looking for Smoke." The book features a mystery on a Blackfeet reservation and emphasizes cultural representation and the theme of potential in young adulthood. Cobell aims to provide authentic narratives that resonate with both Blackfeet readers and those unfamiliar with reservation life.
North Thurston Public Schools, in collaboration with the City of Lacey and the Lacey South Sound Chamber, launched a Compassionate Community project to promote kindness and respect among residents. The initiative aims to foster an inclusive environment where everyone feels safe and valued.
Mel and Phyllis Citrin moved to Harbor Heights 55+ Apartments in Olympia to be closer to family, finding a supportive community and an active lifestyle. The couple, originally from New York, appreciates the natural beauty of the region and the social opportunities available at their new home. Their relocation has allowed them to participate in family milestones and engage in various activities with their neighbors.
Jerry Miller, a dedicated teacher and coach from Olympia, passed away at 76 on August 30, 2025, after battling Parkinson's disease. His legacy includes significant contributions to local education and athletics, impacting countless students and fostering community through running. A memorial event raised funds for Parkinson's research, reflecting his ongoing influence.
The City of Olympia initiates the conversion of the historic Olympia Armory into a community arts center, responding to local demand for an arts space since 1989. Eight local nonprofits will anchor the center, ensuring diverse programming in arts and culture. Construction began on September 25, 2025, with a budget of $18.9 million sourced from grants and the City’s Arts, Parks, & Recreation budget.
The Eastside Trading Company, a neighborhood grocery store in Olympia, opened on October 26, 1921, serving the Eastside community until the early 1980s. Originally owned by David Gammell and Mr. Ault, the store expanded its offerings beyond groceries and adapted to changing market conditions by joining various retail organizations. The store's legacy reflects the evolution of local grocery businesses over several decades.
The City of Lacey will participate in Washington State’s Stormwater Awareness Week from October 6-12, 2025, to promote stormwater management. The initiative aims to educate the public on maintaining clean waterways through community involvement and training for local officials. Residents can engage by volunteering for various events focused on environmental protection.
River Ridge High School opened a new classroom wing featuring 70 classrooms, a library, and specialized spaces for science and special education. Funded by the 2020 bond and state contributions, the modernization enhances security and community connectivity at the school.