Your trusted source for local Olympia, WA news, updated daily with the most important stories from your community.
Snowfall has prompted significant changes in schedules across the Olympia area, affecting schools and colleges as they adapt to icy conditions. The Olympia School District and Centralia College have made adjustments, including canceled activities and modified bus routes. Residents are advised to stay informed about ongoing updates as the weather continues to change.
The Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) has launched a Work Zone Speed Camera Program aimed at reducing the high number of construction zone crashes, which have averaged over 1,300 annually. The initiative, which will involve monitoring speeders with automated cameras, aims to enhance safety for both construction workers and the traveling public.
A 16-year-old boy was arrested at Olympia High School after brandishing a loaded handgun during a clothing transaction with a peer. The police recovered the firearm, believed to be a 3D-printed Glock-style weapon, and charged the suspect with first-degree robbery and possession of a dangerous weapon on school property. This incident raises concerns about safety in local schools and the prevalence of untraceable firearms.
Mason County has reported its first case of highly pathogenic avian influenza in domestic birds, particularly affecting a small backyard flock of ducks. The Washington State Department of Agriculture has urged flock owners in the vicinity to enhance biosecurity measures and utilize reporting tools to monitor flock health. This development follows the state's ongoing monitoring since the first case of bird flu was detected in May 2022.
A plethora of new dining options has emerged in Thurston County in 2024, featuring a variety of coffee shops, cafes, and restaurants. Highlights include the first cat café in Olympia and unique offerings like banh mi sandwiches and bubble tea. Food enthusiasts are encouraged to explore these exciting culinary additions.
The article delves into Thurston County's early 20th-century Black history, highlighting the lives of Black settlers and families through federal census records and local documentation. It emphasizes the challenges faced due to discrimination while also showcasing the contributions of Black-owned businesses and community members. This exploration serves as a vital resource for understanding the often-overlooked narratives of Black residents in the region.
The Cave Bar in Aberdeen, located within the historic Polish Club, offers a unique blend of community and entertainment, making it a must-visit destination on the Washington coast. Known for its haunted reputation and vibrant social events, the bar creates a welcoming atmosphere for locals and visitors alike. With roots dating back to 1916, The Cave Bar remains a significant part of Aberdeen's cultural heritage.
The North Thurston Public Schools board has approved the schematic designs for a new Young Child & Family Center in Lacey, aimed at addressing a critical need for child care in the region. With a budget of $41.6 million, the center will serve up to 600 children aged 3-5 and will feature early learning classrooms and community amenities. This initiative reflects a collaborative effort between local schools, the YMCA, and the city of Lacey to combat a significant childcare access crisis.
The Port of Olympia is conducting extensive sediment sampling in Budd Inlet to investigate legacy pollutants, focusing on the West Bay region. A Public Observation Day is scheduled for March 4, allowing community members and Evergreen State College students to engage with the sampling process and learn about environmental cleanup efforts.
Thurston County's latest food inspection scores, released on February 5, 2025, highlight critical health and safety violations across various local eateries, including Jasmine Thai and Johnson’s Whistle Depot. The reports, sourced from the Thurston County Public Health and Social Services, emphasize the importance of maintaining food safety standards to prevent food-borne illnesses, detailing specific infractions and required corrective actions.