Good morning, Olympia.

Rutledge Family Farm in Tumwater marks 25 years of hosting fall traditions with corn mazes, pumpkin patches and family activities for Thurston County residents—its long-standing legacy draws both regulars and new visitors.

It will host Pups in the Patch on October 4 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., offering pet adoptions and vendors to add to the seasonal fun.

Trader Joe's will open a new store in Lacey on Sleater-Kinney Road—part of its nationwide expansion.

Officials have not yet announced an opening date.

OSPI revealed state test scores showing gains in English, literacy, and science but noted only 63.3% of students had foundational math skills, and it requested $10M to boost math teaching for grades K-8—most funds will support professional development and classroom technology.

TOGETHER! and North Thurston Public Schools were awarded a multi-year OSPI grant to expand their free Club House program at Mountain View Elementary and continue it at Lydia Hawk Elementary and middle schools — the program offers after school, before school and summer enrichment with transportation and bilingual support and will begin on October 6.

Olympia Therapy said that back-to-school stress affects both kids and their parents—especially as many kindergarteners and older students face new challenges after COVID isolation.

They urged parents to stay calm and help their children learn to manage their feelings while adjusting to school demands.

At 6 p.m. Tuesday at Olympia City Hall, the City Council will review tenant screening guardrails aimed at reducing barriers for low-income households and people of color.

Housing Program Specialist Christa Lenssen will present proposed changes on factors like criminal, credit and eviction history—issues that have long affected immigrant and marginalized groups.

The Olympia City Council proclaimed Hispanic and Latinx Heritage Month from Sept.15 to Oct.15 at a meeting on Sept.9.

Mayor Dante Payne said the proclamation supports the city's sanctuary status and LulaFest will be held on Sept.27 from 1-8 p.m.—featuring two stages, a car show, a beer garden, and family activities.

ABBA Tribute with ABRA Cadabra

7:30-9 p.m. — Kenneth J. Minnaert Center for the Arts — Ticket prices vary — Dance and sing to ABBA's greatest hits performed live by a renowned tribute band.

September Book Club Meeting: Warblers & Woodpeckers

4:30-6 p.m. — Browsers Bookshop — Free entry — Dive into the avian adventures of a father-son duo as they embark on a Big Year of birding.

Brad Williams Stand-Up Comedy Show

7:00-8:30 p.m. — Washington Center for the Performing Arts — Ticket prices vary — Experience one of the funniest comedians in the country as he delivers high-energy performances and insightful humor.

First Annual Oktoberfest

11 AM – 7 PM — Stone City Event Center — Details upcoming — Experience the vibrant Bavarian spirit with beer, brats, and lively contests.

Silent Movie: Chaplin's The Gold Rush

2:00 – 3:30 PM — Washington Center for the Performing Arts — $18-$20 — Experience the charm of silent cinema with Chaplin’s classic, accompanied by live organ music.

PNW Fungi Basics Crash Course

6:00 – 8:30 p.m. — Nisqually Reach Nature Center — Interactive course — Explore the fascinating world of fungi and mushrooms with hands-on training and expert guidance.

Ethics of Simple Self-Care in Nature Workshop

9:00 AM – 4:30 PM — The ONE Center — $199.00 — Explore the healing power of nature while earning law and ethics continuing education credits.

Ethan Tucker Live at The Pig Bar

7-11 p.m. — The Pig Bar — Tickets available — Experience Ethan Tucker's soulful acoustic roots and bluesy vocals in a lively setting.

Tree & Fungi Identification Basics

1:30-4:00 p.m. — Rose Garden at Squaxin Park — $25 — Explore tree and fungi identification on a guided nature walk during the Fall Fungi Season.

DSHS Mobile Office Visit

11 a.m. – 3 p.m. — Olympia Timberland Library — Free service — Access food, cash, and medical benefits right in your community.