Here's your local news at a glance for Saturday, the 12th of July.
Good morning, Olympia.
The Boys & Girls Clubs of Thurston County have expanded youth programs at nine locations using in-kind donations and community support from local businesses.
Community partner Sunset Air helped by installing and maintaining HVAC systems that allow the clubs to keep fees affordable for families.
Matt Orr pleaded guilty to killing Dane Nielsen, a father of two, during a high-speed chase last November and was sentenced to 8.5 years behind bars—deputies say his actions led to a tragic loss for Nielsen’s family.
Local groups Funeral Alternatives, Masonic Memorial Park and Death Dancer are hosting a series of family-friendly events on selected Saturdays that feature history, nature, art and Halloween activities.
The schedule includes a history tour on July 19 from 2—5 p.m., a nature tour on Aug. 16 from 5—8 p.m., an art event on Sept. 13 from 1—4 p.m., and a Spooktacular walk on Oct. 18 from 4—8 p.m.—all funded by Inspire Olympia, Masonic Memorial Park and Funeral Alternatives.
Scientists are monitoring a seismic swarm at Mount Rainier that began at 1:29 a.m. on July 8 and has surpassed the 2009 event count with 391 recorded quakes as of Friday.
Officials report the activity is declining—believing it is caused by fault fluid circulation rather than magma unrest.
The City of Olympia is accepting applications for 2026 tourism funding using a 4 percent lodging tax to help boost hotel stays and attract visitors from more than 50 miles away—eligible nonprofits, businesses and government agencies can apply.
Applications must be submitted by 11:59 p.m. on Friday, Aug. 29 to be considered.
Revival Architects is proposing a seven-story apartment building with 131 units at 2640 Martin Way E that may earn significant affordable housing incentives if all units are designated for low-income residents.
City officials said the project will require detailed environmental and transportation reviews—triggering street and pedestrian improvements—to meet local guidelines.
Capital Lakefair
Ongoing — Capital Lakefair — Free entry — Explore carnival rides, food booths, crafts, and enjoy live entertainment at this vibrant family-friendly festival.
Switchback 360 at Capital Lakefair
8:30 p.m. — Capital Lakefair — Free entry — Experience live music from Switchback 360 under the stars after the parade.
Kaitie Wade Concert at Urraco Coffee Co
6-12 p.m. — Urraco Coffee Co — Entry TBA — Enjoy a night of pop-country tunes from Seattle's own Kaitie Wade as she showcases her artistry.
The Rookery Apartments Open House
Explore Tumwater's premier Net Zero luxury apartment community and be among the first to reserve one of the six available units at The Rookery. The address is 6504 Capitol Blvd SE, Tumwater, WA. Just follow the signs to find the entrance off Z Street!
Beatles vs Stones - A Musical Showdown
7:30-9 p.m. — Washington Center for the Performing Arts — Ticket prices vary — Experience the ultimate musical clash between two legendary bands in a lively performance.
17th Annual Olympia Pub Crawl
3-8 p.m. — Nicole's Bar — $25 until August 1st, $30 day of event — A fun walking tour of local pubs supporting childhood cancer research and family support.
Dream Create: A Half-Day Workshop
10 AM – 2 PM — Kenneydell Park — Workshop fee applies — Engage in creating a dream art journal amidst nature in Olympia, WA.
Scherler Sundays: Free Concert Series
3-7 p.m. — Carnegie Library — Free entry — Enjoy a fantastic lineup of over 30 independent bands in a family-friendly, outdoor setting.
Fish, Forage, Fire!
9 a.m. – 4 p.m. — Squaxin Park — Cost not specified — Dive into fishing, archery, and foraging skills at this outdoor camp.
No new real estate listings today. You can submit one here.
No new job posts today. You can submit one here.
No new community announcements today. You can submit one here.
Stay in the know, Olympia.
Free, always. No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.