New Neighbors Guide Thurston County Winter /Spring 2023

“ IT’S LIKE OLYFED BELIEVES OUR SUCCESS

IS THEIR RESPONSIBILITY ”

As the Oly Town Artesians Football Club has become a local soccer phenomenon, they’ve recruited OlyFed as their MVP financial partner. With deep ties into our supportive business community, OlyFed provides much more than its robust Pathfinder Business Checking account, they provide expert support and insight. “I get regular calls from the OlyFed crew with great ideas and growth opportunities,” said Club owner Ryan Perkins. “They’re always so helpful and curious about how they can benefit us.” That kind of team support has been our goal since 1906; putting real relationships above the bottom line.

OLY TOWN ARTESIANS FOOTBALL CLUB Ryan Perkins, Club Owner

COMMUNITIES & NEIGHBORHOODS

new to thurston county? here’s what you need to know living in thurston county

olyfed puts relationships above the bottom line EDUCATION

enrolling in school in thurston county

GIVING BACK IN THURSTON CO. YOUR HOME

south sound success story: heidi duncan of duncan insurance making your house a home cabinets by trivonna: tailored to YOUR budget getting settled into a new home

SHOPPING

holy lamb organics—natural bedding made locally panowicz jewelers: three generations of serving the local community

capitol city honda: community-centered in its second generation of service shopping guide

CALENDAR OF EVENTS

DINING & ENTERTAINMENT

cynara restaurant & lounge

HEALTH & WELLNESS

health & wellness close to home now open! health & wellness center

olympia ob/gyn heroes: babies born during a pandemic service and convenience at the heart of light dental studios

tumwater eye center: innovative & independent eye care is our passion

SENIOR LIVING

garden courte memory care: a premiere senior living community northwest winter safety tips for seniors

LETTER FROM THE EDITOR

Welcome to the New Neighbors Guide!

On behalf of the local community, we welcome you to Thurston County. Whether you’re here temporarily or plan to make this a permanent home, we know you’re going to love our region. With our natural beauty, lakes, streams and forested trails, this is the perfect location for outdoor fun. With some of the best coffee in the world and a vibrant food and entertainment scene, Thurston County has something for everyone.

Let’s face it, moving to a new city can be costly and time-consuming—but it’s also exciting! This guide is written by a mix of perspectives from native Thurston Countians to people who moved here from out of the area. Our group reminisced about what we wish people had told us when we first moved here.

This resource guide offers tips and reminders to get you settled and to get the nuts and bolts of your new home well underway. This resource will also help you get connected to your local community, schools and health care, and help you put down “roots” in your daily life here. From great ideas for your home and events to engage in the community, we have you covered.

As we put together this issue, we look forward to providing you with information and education about all the “best things” in Thurston County and we hope to give you a sense of place where you belong and can engage and feel connected. We welcome you, our “new neighbor,” to Thurston County.

Kindest regards, Robin

Lucas

Robin Lucas, Publisher

Office Manager

Karissa Wilson

Editing Team

Cynthia Boyd

Pamela Holt

Calendar Editor

Sally Perkins

Art Director

Susan Newsom

Website

Kelly McKay

Social Media

Madison Ford

Writing Team

Natalie Benson

Lynn Castle

Leah Grout

Julie Leydelmeyer

Kelly Lenihan

Mary Ellen Psaltis

Hillary Ryan

Photography

Amanda Howse

Sales Team

Marcy Angel

Saundra Coffen

New Neighbors Guide is a division of ShowCase Media COVER

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THURSTON COUNTY

NEW TO THURSTON COUNTY?

HERE’S WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW

There is always so much to do when you move. This checklist will help you to quickly navigate a few important, but often dreaded, tasks related to relocating.

BY JULIE LEYDELMEYER

UPDATE YOUR DRIVER’S LICENSE

If you have a valid Washington driver license, you have ten days after you move to change your address. A new card with your updated address will cost $20. It’s free and simple to do online at dol.wa.gov/licenseexpress.html.

If you’ve moved from out of state, apply for a Washington State driver license within 30 days. Remember to bring proof of identity and residence, in addition to the correct fees ($89/standard or $113/ enhanced) for the type of license you want. Pre-apply online at dol.wa.gov/driverslicense/moving.html to expedite your visit.

REGISTER YOUR CAR

Updating your address for a vehicle already registered in Washington is easy and free! Go online to dol.wa.gov/licenseexpress.html.

If you’ve moved from out of state, register your vehicle in Washington within 30 days. Mailing the required documents and fees gets you plates in about three weeks. Head to a vehicle licensing office to receive new plates immediately. Download the forms at dol.wa.gov/vehicleregistration/moving.html.

USE PUBLIC TRANSPORTATION

Intercity Transit provides bus service vanpool options for commuters, in addition to dial-a-lift service for those with a disability. Plan your route online at intercitytransit.com.

REGISTER TO VOTE

Whether moving within Washington or new to Thurston County, the driver licensing office can assist with your voter registration. You can also register online at voter.votewa.gov. Voting in Washington is primarily done by mail, so be sure to register at least eight days before Election Day.

GET A PET LICENSE

Olympia, Lacey, and Tumwater require licenses for all dogs and cats in city limits. Thurston County requires licenses for all dogs in unincorporated areas and offers voluntary licensing for cats. Even if your pet is indoors only, a license is required.

A list of license fees and licensing offices can be found online at jointanimalservices.org/licensing.

GET A LIBRARY CARD

Timberland Regional Library provides library services to the residents of Grays Harbor, Lewis, Mason, Pacific, and Thurston Counties. Library cards are free to anyone living or owning property in these areas. Applications are accepted online or in person, but both require in-person address verification. Learn more at trl.org.

LIVING IN THURSTON COUNTY

BY JULIE LEYDELMEYER

Thurston County is centrally located to some of the best the Pacific Northwest has to offer. Any day of the week, you can embark on a new adventure. Visit spectacular mountains, like Mount Rainier, one of the most glaciated mountain peaks in the continental U.S., or Mount St. Helens, the most active volcano in the Cascade Mountains. Create your own tour of the nearby vineyards, distilleries, and microbreweries. Admire the power of the Pacific Ocean and pools of sea creatures along miles of coastal beaches. Stroll the campus of the state’s capital. Take in the culture and nightlife of Seattle and Tacoma. Add in access to high quality healthcare, a lower cost of living compared to the state overall, and a temperate climate, and Thurston County is the perfect place to make your forever home.

WEATHER

The Pacific Northwest weather can be unpredictable at times, but the weather in Thurston County also has a beauty all its own. The high temperature during the summer is on average about 77 degrees. The low in the winter averages 35. Rainfall averages 50 inches and snow six inches per year.

TRANSPORTATION

Interstate 5 runs through the heart of Thurston County, making it easy to find your way to Seattle or Portland by car. SeattleTacoma International Airport is a little more than 50 miles from Olympia. Within the county, Intercity Transit provides bus service and vanpool options, in addition to dial-a-lift service for those with a disability.

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

Ready to go out and explore? Whether you’re interested in fine dining, the performing arts, museums, shopping, farmers markets, hiking, golfing, and more—we’ve got you covered!

SCHOOLS

Exceptional public and private schools can be found in Thurston County. Please refer to our Education section for more information. A community college and two universities provide lifelong learning opportunities.

LIBRARIES

Five branches of the Timberland Regional Library serve Thurston County. Many services are available online: you can apply for a library card, request books, check their monthly calendar for events and classes, Ask a Librarian, and more.

PARKS, FACILITIES & TRAILS

There is something for everyone when you explore Thurston County’s 25 regional parks, which cover approximately 2,800 acres and include nearly 50 miles of recreational trail corridors. Each city also maintains parks, playgrounds, and community centers. There’s never a shortage of recreational opportunities in Thurston County.

HEALTH CARE

Medical providers in Thurston County are committed to providing high-quality care that rivals larger communities, for general and specialized healthcare needs. Two hospitals and numerous medical clinics mean you will always have access to topquality medical care and technology.

MILITARY

Joint Base Lewis-McChord, one of 12 joint bases worldwide, is an amalgamation of the Army post Fort Lewis and McChord Air Force Base. JBLM has more than 45,000 soldiers and civilian workers. The joint base supports more than 120,000 military retirees and more than 29,000 family members living both on and off post. Adjacent to JBLM, Camp Murray is home to the Washington National Guard and the Washington Air National Guard. The two armories at Camp Murray can be used for graduations, receptions, tournaments, youth events, potlucks, seminars and charity events.

TAKE A TRIP TO THE WET SCIENCE CENTER

ADMISSION IS FREE

Open Monday - Saturday 10 am - 4 pm 500 Adams Street NE

Olympia, Washington

wetsciencecenter.org

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OlyFed Puts Relationships Above the Bottom Line

BY MARY ELLEN PSALTIS

The last three years have been anything but predictable. With the onset of the pandemic and all that’s transpired, both our everyday life and economy have been deeply impacted. Now more than ever, it’s critical to have a trusted partner you can turn to for expert financial advice, insightful support, and helpful resources.

A mutual bank that’s accountable to its customers, not out-of-town shareholders, Olympia Federal Savings (OlyFed) has a neighbor-helping-neighbor business model that puts real relationships above the bottom line. “We have many different safe, secure and predictable ways to save and help customers reach their savings goals,” Ryan Betz, SVP/Chief Strategy and Marketing Officer says. “At a time when there is so much uncertainty in the market, OlyFed has what it takes to provide the peaceof-mind you want when it comes to growing and protecting your finances.”

From checking accounts and digital banking tools that help you manage your daily life, to retirement and savings accounts that let you invest in your future, OlyFed’s team of professionals are there to help you through all of life’s stages and adventures. It’s what they’ve been doing for the local community for more than 116 years. “With savings as part of our name, you know we are committed to helping our customers get ahead by achieving their greatest pursuits,” Betz notes.

In fact, community is at the core of OlyFed. Every year, the bank gives back more than 10% of its profits to local nonprofit organizations and its employees contribute hundreds of volunteer hours to ensure their time and talents support their philanthropic investments. “One of the fun ways we involve our customers in our charitable giving is through our Two Cent Campaign. Each month we pick a new nonprofit, and we donate two cents to that organization for every customer debit card transaction,” Betz shares. Since the program began four years ago, it has provided more than $120,000 in support to the community.

“We believe mutual means more for our customers and our community by ensuring we live out our ‘people first’ values by always doing the right thing,” Betz affirms.

ENROLLING IN SCHOOL IN THURSTON COUNTY

BY JULIE LEYDELMEYER

Parents have more options than ever before in choosing an academic environment that best fits the needs of their student. In Thurston County, there are 60 public primary schools, 17 public high schools, and 19 private schools that are approved by the Board of Education. Eight school districts provide primary and secondary education to the majority of Thurston County’s students. These districts range in size from rural Griffin, with about 650 students, to the more urban North Thurston Public Schools, which had more than 14,000 students during the 2021-2022 school year.

Because every child is unique in learning style, personality and talents, school districts offer a variety of learning environments to fit the needs of every child, as well as choice enrollment. This means parents can apply, on a space-available basis, to the school that is the right fit for their child. If a brick and mortar school isn’t the best option for your child, consider an online school or homeschool.

Find

Interactive Map arcg.is/2eARebk

Griffin School District griffinschool.us

North Thurston Public Schools nthurston.k12.wa.us

Olympia School District osd.wednet.edu

Rainier School District rainier.wednet.edu

Rochester School District rochester.wednet.edu

Tenino School District teninosd.org

Tumwater School District tumwater.k12.wa.us

Yelm School District ycs.wednet.edu

AFTER YOU ARRIVE AT YOUR NEW HOME:

• Together with your child, walk around the grounds and buildings of the new school before the first day to learn where everything is located.

• Talk to the principal of the new school. Ask about how the school helps children adjust to their new school, such as a buddy system.

• Talk to the school counselors. Inform them that your child is adjusting to a new home, in addition to a new school.

• If your child needs additional support or has special needs, talk to the teachers or staff about the programs and facilities to accommodate these.

• If you haven’t already, look into extracurricular activities (associated with the school or not) to give kids the opportunity to meet new friends.

• Get a copy of school guidelines. Your children may be used to different rules about dress codes, makeup, locker use, PE class, and the like.

• Help your child have the right clothes and equipment, such as a sports uniform on sports day. Before buying uniforms, you may want to find out which items are most comfortable or popular among other students.

• Make sure your child knows how to get to and from school— for example, the best walking route, where bus stops are, or where you’ll pick up and drop off.

• Introduce yourself to your new neighbors. Perhaps your child can meet some classmates before the first day at the new school.

• Visit the after-school care facilities if your child will be using them.

• If possible, get a copy of your child’s weekly timetable so the whole family knows what’s happening and what your child needs each day.

• Learn as much as you can about your child’s new school to help them feel more comfortable. Kids are most focused on fitting in, so knowing what that means to your child can help.

GIVING BACK IN THURSTON CO.

BY JULIE LEYDELMEYER

A great way to quickly learn about your new community and meet new friends is to get involved with a nonprofit organization. Every community offers numerous opportunities to support these worthwhile causes. Finding organizations that are meaningful to you will make the experience most rewarding.

These four questions can help you find your perfect nonprofit match:

• Do you have a passion? By identifying what motivates you, such as sports or outdoor pursuits, environmental or conservation issues, working with children, or assisting the elderly, you’ll start to narrow down the list.

• How much time can you give? Figure out how many hours per week or month you’d like to contribute to an organization. If you have schedule limitations, check to see if the organization can work around those.

• What do you bring or want to acquire? It’s important to know how you’d like to contribute to an organization. Are you interested in providing leadership, planning events, or being a social media guru? Volunteering is also a way to get practical training and experience to help your career.

• How do you want to serve? Consider whether you prefer working one-on-one, such as mentoring a teen or helping an adult learn to read, or working in a group, such as helping to renovate a home or coordinating fundraising activities.

Once you’ve had a chance to consider your ideal organization, start exploring what’s available. If you worked with a nonprofit in your previous community, there’s a good chance you’ll find a local chapter in Thurston County too. Three consortiums support a variety of community nonprofits and the lists of their member organizations are a good resource.

• South Sound Partners for Philanthropy celebrategiving.org

• The Community Foundation thecommunityfoundation.com

• United Way of Thurston County unitedway-thurston.org

Want to get involved but don’t feel you have the time as you get settled? Consider attending a fundraising event. Events are a fun way to meet like-minded people, raise funds for the cause, and give you a feel for the organization.

SOUTH SOUND SUCCESS STORY

Heidi Duncan of Duncan Insurance

It could be that some superheroes come into being from a toxic spider bite, but other superheroes are just born into their roles as descendants of “do-gooders” before them. That’s the case with Heidi Duncan of Duncan and Associates Insurance Brokers, based in Olympia.

From the time she was young, little Heidi dreamed of following in her father’s footsteps and becoming an insurance agent. When other kids set their sights on becoming a doctor, professional ice skater or architect, Heidi was interested only in insurance.

Her father, Russ Duncan, founded Duncan Insurance 50 years ago. When Heidi was 3 1/2 years old, she started going to work with her

BY HILLARY RYAN

dad to give her mom a break with her newborn brother. Her first job was to pick staples out of the carpet, but that soon progressed to more complex tasks. By kindergarten she was using the office typewriter like a pro.

Heidi knows exactly when she knew that she wanted to be an insurance agent. When she was 4 or 5, the phone rang at home in the middle of the night, awakening everyone in the Duncan household. It was a client. His house had just burned down and he was calling his insurance agent for help. Heidi’s father leapt to action. He let his client know that he was completely taken care of and that he would be there for him every step of the way.

The superhero was revealed. Russ Duncan demonstrated to his daughter how important it is to take care of people in stressful times. It should be no surprise that when Heidi turned 18, she was one of the youngest people in Washington state ever to take and pass the insurance agent licensing exam.

Since then, she has been working diligently to help her clients. “Listening to the needs of my clients and helping them understand all the options available to them is the center of all our work,” notes Heidi. “Our agency may be small, but we have a huge range of expertise and since we operate like a family, we work to provide seamless wraparound insurance coverage.”

Being available to clients for emergencies continues to be a cornerstone of Duncan and Associates Insurance Brokers. “We are like financial first responders,” says Heidi Duncan. “We provide calm and comforting expertise for people who are dealing with major issues. We want to be superheroes.”

DUNCAN AND ASSOCIATES

800.228.8291

duncanins.com

MAKING YOUR HOUSE Home

Tips to transform a house into a home with decor and furniture from the heart

*Your entry is the initial introduction to your home and sets the stage for you and your guests. Place a cozy rug or floor mat inside the door to define the entry and give an immediate sense of personality. A reclaimed wood bench, umbrella stand or coat rack, and luscious candles complete the welcoming picture.

~ Design tips provided by Sage Interiors in Tacoma

*Be creative with your space. Move items at an angle, layer different rugs, and add a wall of photos and memories. Use your imagination to make the space warm, inviting and as unique as you are.

*Try to bring nature inside. Although the Northwest is overflowing with the beauty of nature, we all know that during our wet, gloomy weather we may stay inside for much of the time. Visit your local nursery to get tips on what kind of plants will work for your space, the amount of light available, and your lifestyle.

A*Incorporate different elements such as wood, metal, glass and greenery throughout each room to bring warmth and life to your spaces. Mirrors not only provide style and function but also lighten up a room and help create movement.

CABINETS BY TRIVONNA

Tailored to YOUR Budget

BY KATE ROSSMAN

The owners of Cabinets by Trivonna, Amber and Rick Bevacqua, and their team enjoy getting to know their clients and how they use their space. Their goal is to design a space that’s not only beautiful but as functional as possible for their specific needs while keeping their budget in mind.

They start by scheduling a consultation appointment with a designer where you bring measurements for the cabinets or countertops you would like to have done. The designer will then work with you and go through the many beautiful options in products that are available. “We want to help our clients create beautiful and useful spaces that fit a homeowner’s lifestyle and preferences,” says Amber.

Next, the designer creates a plan and a design for the clients to review in a 3D rendition with the new cabinets or countertops in the space. This is coupled with a projected budget for the design plans. Cabinets by Trivonna also offers a hero’s discount for armed forces and first responders. The team has experience and can work in any space with cabinets such as hidden rooms, gun rooms, outdoors, or even small kitchens.

If needed, the designer can recommend a trusted contractor and an installation price can be quoted. Cabinets by Trivonna also works with families who DIY their own install, and they are happy to come alongside their vision. This allows the client to be able to visualize the space, understand the cost, and make any adjustments. Once the project has been approved, the designer begins working any changes to the original 3D plans.

Cabinets by Trivonna is family-owned by Rick and Amber, and they are proud to work with other family-owned businesses in the community.

CABINETS BY TRIVONNA

4444 Lacey Blvd SE, Unit G, Lacey 360.539.5057

cabinetsbytrivonna.com

GettinG Settled into a new home

BY KELLY LENIHAN

After the last box is moved into your new home, you might think the hardest part of moving is over. And you’re right, but there are still things to take care of before you can relax completely.

GET YOUR UTILITIES SET UP

You don’t want to arrive at your new place late at night and find that the lights don’t work. Before you move, arrange for the utilities to be set up there. Make sure all of your services are up and running so you can check your electronics and appliances.

CHECK MAJOR APPLIANCES

If you moved major appliances, such as a range, dishwasher, washer or dryer, check to make sure nothing was damaged during the move. This is particularly important if the mover prepared your appliances for the move. Your insurance policy may have a limited time in which to make a claim. Since these are big-ticket items, you want to make sure they’re all working.

CHECK ALL BOXES AND FURNITURE

Make sure all boxes and furniture arrived and that nothing is damaged. If you’re missing something or you find damage, contact the mover and your insurance company to submit a claim. It’s important to do this immediately after moving in or the insurance company may not reimburse you.

SAVE RECEIPTS

Keep all receipts and documentation related to your move in one file and store the file in a safe, secure place. Make sure you have your bill of lading and payment receipt. You may be able to claim your move on your next tax return, and you’ll need all the necessary receipts to make your claim.

MAKE SURE YOU’RE GETTING YOUR MAIL

Check with the post office about mail forwarding. Update all important files and documents with your new address and notify everyone who needs to know about your move.

Holy Lamb Organics - Natural Bedding Made Locally

BY LEAH GROUT

Holy Lamb Organics has been making natural bedding products locally by hand in the small town of Oakville, Washington for 18 years. The South Sound community can access a “touch and feel” experience in Olympia. The company’s retail showrooms are the only all-natural bedding stores between Seattle and Portland, according to owners Jason and Mindy Schaefer.

The showroom is a great way for customers to experience the products. “We’re excited to be part of the downtown Olympia neighborhood it is a great fit for our business,” says Mindy Schaefer.

Holy Lamb Organics’ manufacturing plant is located in what was once Oakville’s historic Little Bit General Store, which served the community in eastern Grays Harbor County for over 85 years. Built in 1902, the building also includes a showroom that is open to the public.

According to the Schaefers, Holy Lamb Organics bedding is handmade using the highest quality materials and forward-thinking design and innovation. Made in the USA, the products are natural and certified organic. The Schaefers add that replacing the bedding of an allergy sufferer with natural products can reduce or eliminate the effects of allergies.

Besides promoting health and well-being, the Schaefers’ vision is to strengthen the local economy using sustainable and ecological practices in their manufacturing and selling. “We bring distinctive, comfy, healthy goods to the marketplace without ever compromising our commitment to sustainability and the environment.”

The Schaefers’ showroom has become a welcome space for the community. They invite you to the showroom to experience the difference all-natural bedding offers.

HOLY LAMB ORGANICS

418 Washington St SE, Olympia holylamborganics.com

PANOWICZ JEWELERS

THREE GENERATIONS of serving the local community

BY NATE PETERS

Leslie travels internationally to Antwerp, Belgium, the diamond capital of the world, to hand-select diamonds to offer the best value and quality in the Puget Sound. The store also brings in jewelry designers from across the world to feature their trendiest pieces throughout the year.

“We bring unique and fashionable jewelry that fits anybody’s personal style for any occasion,” said Kandy Watters, sales manager. “From designer trunk shows to custom jewelry pieces, for all ages, men and women, we can take care of you here.”

One thing that is unique about Panowicz Jewelers is they have four goldsmiths and a certified gemologist on staff. They are able to offer many services in store that other retailers would outsource.

The store is also well-known in the Olympia area for its generosity. If you attend a nonprofit fundraiser, there is a strong chance you will see Panowicz Jewelers as a raffle sponsor. They donate quality, in-demand jewelry items so the nonprofits can raise additional funds through raffling off the jewelry.

Panowicz Jewelers has passed to its third generation of ownership in the family: Leslie Panowicz, granddaughter of late founder Anton Panowicz, Sr., is now the owner. After seven decades, Panowicz Jewelers still holds true to its founding of a legacy of quality, integrity and value.

“As a store we genuinely care about our customers,” shared Leslie. “One of our favorite aspects of this business is being a part of clients’ special moments that they will remember for the rest of their lives.”

Panowicz Jewelers prides itself on its history while also remaining contemporary in both variety and selection of merchandise. You don’t need to travel to a big city to find that special piece of jewelry. Next time you are in downtown Olympia, stop by the store to see what are the latest fashion trends in jewelry.

PANOWICZ JEWELERS

111 Market St NE #104, Olympia 360.357.4943

panowicz.com

CAPITOL CITY HONDA

Community-Centered in its Second Generation of Service

BY MARY ELLEN PSALTIS

“We focus on customer service. We always have,” says Kelly Levesque, owner of Olympia’s Capitol City Honda. She and her husband Chris, who is the General Manager, work hand-in-hand in the business that has been in the family for 50 years. “It’s a small town,” notes Kelly. Repeat business is essential.

To better serve new and continuing customers, the dealership opened an Express Service. No appointment is necessary. You can drop in for an oil change. “Our service is the best!” adds Kelly. There is also a full-service parts and service department for all your auto needs. You can shop for new Hondas and all models of pre-owned vehicles. Capitol City Honda was ranked first for a car shopping experience in the ShowCase Magazine Best of 2022.

Car buyers are sophisticated. Capitol City Honda encourages you to get on its website to do your research. During normal business hours, there’s a live chat with a real person at the other end to answer all your questions. You can fill out your credit application and get your financing in order ahead of time. This is one way to streamline your visit.

Community and family are important to Kelly, who grew up in Olympia. She and Chris are raising their family there too. Her business supports local favorites like the Hands On Children’s Museum and is a Club Sponsor for the Boys & Girls Club of Thurston County located in Tumwater. Kelly puts her time and energy as well as money into what she believes. 4 The Love Foundation provides groceries, holiday gifts and meals and more to those in great need. “I delivered boxed meals with my husband and our kids,” recounts Kelly.

You may be a new neighbor or a long-time resident – it makes no difference. Capitol City Honda wants to meet your car needs with

satisfaction. Whether you are buying, trading-in or requiring service, Capitol City Honda is ready to help you. It’s comforting to know that two employees have spent their careers with the dealership. Kelly and her team look forward to meeting you. She welcomes you to her hometown.

CAPITOL CITY HONDA

Olympia Auto Mall 2370 Carriage Loop SW, Olympia 360.347.1224 or 800.594.2956

Sales: 888.860.7955 | Service: 888.864.2084 capitolcityhonda.com

Olympia 222 Market 222 Capitol Way N 360.352.1175 222market.com

Archibald Sisters 406 Capitol Way S 800.943.2707 archibaldsisters.com

Belleza Ropa 101 Capitol Way N 360.352.ROPA (7672) bellezaropa.com

Capital Mall & Promenade 625 Black Lake Blvd 360.754.8017

shoppingcapitalmall.com

Compass Rose 416 Capitol Way S 360.236.0788

compassroseshop.com

Courtyard Antiques 705 4th Ave E 360.352.3864 courtyardantiquesolympia.com

Debra Van Tuinen 429 4th Ave W 360.402.6517

vantuinenart.com

Drees of Olympia 524 Washington St SE 360.357.7177 dreesofolympia.com

Holy Lamb Organics 418 Washington St SE 360.819.4293 holylamborganics.com

Lost and Found 2316 4th Ave E 253.298.8514

lostandfoundcrafts.com

Olympia Bed Store 113 Thurston Ave NE 360.819.4293

olympiabedstore.com

Panowicz Jewelers 111 Market St NE, Ste 104 360.357.4943 panowicz.com

Lacey Linnea’s Unique Boutique 6715 Martin Way E 360.789.1112

facebook.com/linneasdreamlacey

Merle Norman Cosmetics 3925 8th Ave SE, Ste F 360.491.4911 merlenormancosmeticsolympia. com

Wood Shed Furniture 6127 Martin Way E 360.491.0700 woodshedfurn.com

Centralia Gracie’s Boutique 120-A S Tower Ave 360.623.1586

facebook.com/graciesfashions

CALENDAR OF EVENTS

FEBUARY

Olympia Farmers Market

Year round, Saturday & Sunday 10am-3pm

700 Capitol Way N, Olympia 360.352.9096 | olympiafarmersmarket.com

Ken Ludwig’s Baskerville: A Sherlock Holmes Mystery

February 9-11

Harlequin Theatre 202 4th Ave E, Olympia 360.786.0151 | harlequinproductions.org

HAHAPALOOZA 2023: A Comedy

February 10, 7:30pm

Washington Center Main Stage 512 Washington St, Olympia 360.753.8585 | washingtoncenter.org

Emerald City Music: Unrivaled: The Pianists of Cliburn

February 18, 7:30pm

Kenneth J. Minnaert Center Main Stage

2011 Mottman Rd SE, Olympia 360.753.8585 | washingtoncenter.org

Far Away

February 24-25, March 3-4, 7:30pm

South Puget Sound Community College

Kenneth J. Minnaert Center for the Arts

2011 Mottman Rd, Olympia spscc.edu/events-calendar

MARCH

Kermet Apio Comedy Night

March 2, 6:30pm

Ricardo’s Kitchen & Bar

676 Woodland Sq Loop SE, Lacey allevents.in/lacey

February 24, 8pm

Washington Center Black Box Theater 512 Washington St, Olympia 360.753.8585 | washingtoncenter.org

Lacey Cultural

March 4, 10am-6pm

Saint Martin’s Pavillion 5300 Pacific Ave SE, Lacey 360-491-0857 | laceyparks.org

SOGO (Student Orchestras of Greater Olympia) Winter Concert

March 5, 4pm

Washington Center Main Stage 512 Washington St, Olympia 360.753.8585 | washingtoncenter.org

Native Plant Sale

March 5, 10am-3pm

Thurston County Fairgrounds

3054 Carpenter Rd, Lacey 360.786.5452

Ladies of Laughter

March 5, 4pm

Washington Center Main Stage 512 Washington St, Olympia 360.753.8585 | washingtoncenter.org

MCE: Harmony Sweepstakes Acapella Festival

March 11, 7:30pm

Washington Center for the Performing Arts 512 Washington St, Olympia 360.753.8585 | washingtoncenter.org

March 12, 5pm

Washington Center Main Stage 512 Washington St, Olympia 360.753.8585 | washingtoncenter.org

Building Madness

March 17 – April 1

Harlequin Theatre 202 4th Ave E., Olympia 360.786.0151 | harlequinproductions.org

Choir Concert: Folksong

March 17, 7:30pm

South Puget Sound Community College

Kenneth J. Minnaert Center for the Arts 2011 Mottman Rd, Olympia spscc.edu/events-calendar

Orchestra Concert: Vows & Chorales

March 18, 7:30pm

South Puget Sound Community College

Kenneth J. Minnaert Center for the Arts 2011 Mottman Rd, Olympia spscc.edu/events-calendar

Los Lobos with Gaby Moreno

March 23, 7:30pm

Washington Center Main Stage 512 Washington St, Olympia 360.753.8585 | washingtoncenter.org

Ray on My Mind – A Tribute to Ray Charles

March 26, 2pm

Washington Center Main Stage 512 Washington St, Olympia 360.753.8585 | washingtoncenter.org

Black Box Jazz: Greta Matassa

Celebration

Eireann – A Taste of Ireland

APRIL

The 2023 WA529 Art Contest for K-12 Grades

April 1-May 1

Entries accepted by mail or online wastate529.wa.gov/art-contest

Silent Movie: A Buster Keaton Collection

April 2, 2pm

Washington Center Main Stage 512 Washington St, Olympia 360.753.8585 | washingtoncenter.org

Spring Fair

April 14 -16

Washington State Fair Event Center 110 9th Ave SW, Puyallup thefair.com

Skerryvore Scottish Music Performers

April 14, 8pm

Washington Center Main Stage 512 Washington St, Olympia 360.753.8585 | washingtoncenter.org

WindSync Ft. Nathalie Joachim

April 15, 7:30pm

Kenneth J. Minnaert Center Main Stage 2011 Mottman Rd SE, Olympia 360.753.8585 | washingtoncenter.org

MAY

Hundred Days

May 5-27

Harlequin Productions

202 4th Ave N, Olympia 360.786.0151 | harlequinproductions.org

Centralia Farmers Market

April-September

Centralia Outlet Mall

1301 Lum Rd, Centralia 360.985.0662 | centraliafarmersmarket.com

Tenino Farmers Market

May 6-September, Saturdays

213 Sussex Ave W, Tenino 701.552.3032 | teninoarmersmarket.org

Women of a Certain Age

May 6, 7:30pm

Washington Center Main Stage 512 Washington St, Olympia 360.753.8585 | washingtoncenter.org

Capitol City Marathon, Half Marathon, Five Mile & Kids Run

May 21

Washington St, Olympia capitalcitymarathon.org

18th Annual Student Art Exhibition

May 22-26

South Puget Sound Community College

Kenneth J. Minnaert Center for the Arts 2011 Mottman Rd, Olympia spscc.edu/events-calendar

Sunday in the Park

May 26-27, June 2-3, 7:30pm

South Puget Sound Community College

Kenneth J. Minnaert Center for the Arts 2011 Mottman Rd, Olympia spscc.edu/events-calendar

Yelm Farmers Market

May 27 – October Yelm City Park 302 2nd St SE, Yelm yelmfarmersmarket.com

Lacey Spring Fun Fair

May 20, 10am-6pm; May 21, 11am-5pm Saint Martin's University 360.742.9957 | laceyspringfunfair.com

JUNE

Postmodern Jukebox

June 8, 7:30pm

Frozen II Sing-Along

April 29, 6pm

Washington Center Main Stage 512 Washington St, Olympia 360.753.8585 | washingtoncenter.org

Washington Center Main Stage 512 Washington St, Olympia 360.753.8585 | washingtoncenter.org

Cynara Restaurant & Lounge

BY MARY ELLEN PSALTIS

Find harmony of body, mind, and spirit when you sit down for a meal at Cynara Restaurant and Lounge. Check your stresses at the door and unwind. Olympia native Christian Skillings’ second restaurant offers a Mediterranean flair with emphasis on the integrity of every ingredient you experience – from drinks to dessert and everything in between.

Take your time to peruse the list of handcrafted cocktails. The towering bar wall is well stocked with marvelous whiskeys, ryes, malts, gins and intriguing amari and aperitifs. Your server welcomes your questions. Be daring or order an old favorite. Old and new world wines are available by the glass or bottle.

While you are chatting over your libations, order a sharable appetizer such as the Cynara Toasts. Grilled rustic bread slices are topped with savory and/or sweet bits like chevre, grapes, basil, and pistachios. There are four varieties that can be ordered in any combination.

Dishes from Cynara’s kitchen are made from scratch using many locally sourced ingredients, all selected with thought and care. For the serious meat lovers, Cynara uses Royal Ranch ribeyes and filet mignons where every bite is worth savoring. For a change of pace, choose the lively Moroccan lamb stew, which maintains its popularity. The plainly named cauliflower main dish is

anything but. Nestled atop a lemony, basil quinoa salad, a roasted cauliflower head is layered with pomegranate balsamic, apricots, Aleppo toasted hazelnuts and honey. Tasting is believing.

Hopefully, you’ve paced yourself and made room for the chocolate marquise or the baklava crumble.

Cynara keeps its values in mind at all times. The bar is set high for service that is gracious, efficient, knowledgeable, and professional. Your time there is meant to exceed expectations. You might also appreciate that Cynara works to minimize its environmental footprint through recycling, composting and energy-efficient practices.

Share a table with your friends and loved ones for a time of rejuvenation and connection, something we all can use more of these days. Cynara is open for lunch and dinner and has space that can accommodate larger groups or a special event. It is located in downtown Olympia and easy walking distance to the Farmers Market.

CYNARA RESTAURANT & LOUNGE

500 Columbia Street NW, Olympia 360.570.8777

cynaraolympia.com

HEALTH & WELLNESS CLOSE TO HOME

BY JULIE LEYDELMEYER

Moving to a new community means finding new healthcare providers for you and your family. Thurston County offers a wide variety of independent health practitioners and large healthcare systems to meet the needs of every member of your household. You’ll find high quality services, which rival larger communities, conveniently close to your new home.

Thurston County’s Public Health & Social Services department provides a wealth of information online about services and programs to achieve and maintain a healthy, active lifestyle. A list of community gardens, helpful information and resources for quitting smoking, first-time pregnancy support, and much more is available on their website.

When you’ve finished lifting moving boxes and are ready to get back to lifting weights, Thurston County is home to several national gym franchises, in addition to locally-owned facilities and YMCA branches. You won’t have to look very far to find options for cardio, strength training, yoga, or aquatics. Recreational leagues for both youth and adults are offered seasonally through city parks and recreation programs for football, soccer, baseball, and volleyball.

Health and wellness resources are abundant and convenient in Thurston County. As you meet your new neighbors, ask for recommendations about their favorite healthcare practitioners, recreational activities, and wellness programs. It won’t take long to find the right combination of care providers and healthful activities that are the best fit for you and your family.

HEALTH & WELLNESS RESOURCES

Thurston County Public Health & Social Services co.thurston.wa.us/health

Hospitals & Emergency Departments

Capital Medical Center | capitalmedical.com

Providence St. Peter Hospital | providence.org/swsa

Urgent Care Clinics

MultiCare Indigo Urgent Care | indigourgentcare.com

Providence Immediate Care washington.providence.org/campaign/sw/sw-right-care-right-time Rapid Orthopaedic Urgent Care olyortho.com/rapid-orthopaedic-care

UW Neighborhood Olympia Clinic | uwmedicine.org

Dental Care

Thurston-Mason Counties Dental Society | tmcdental.org

Mental Health

National Alliance on Mental Illness/Thurston-Mason Chapter | namitm.org

Parks & Recreation Programs

City of Lacey | ci.lacey.wa.us

City of Olympia | olympiawa.gov

City of Shelton | sheltonwa.gov

City of Tumwater | ci.tumwater.wa.us

Senior Centers/Resources lmtaaa.org/local-senior-centers.html

Health & Wellness Center NOW OPEN!

Back in 2015, a group of student leaders began a journey to explore financing, planning and construction of a student-funded wellness and health space at South Puget Sound Community College. The fruits of that labor were on full display when the official ribbon cutting of the Health & Wellness Center on the SPSCC Olympia campus was held on April 12, 2022.

As one of two student-funded buildings on campus, the 39,000 square-foot space now sits in the footprint of two former buildings. The renovation of the old gymnasium was enhanced by adding completely new activity spaces to make one large new Health & Wellness Center. It houses weight rooms, a fitness center, a café, an auxiliary gym, and various fitness classrooms that can be used for yoga, dance and a wide array of wellness activities. Building 31 is also the home venue for Clipper Athletics, the school’s competitive sports teams.

According to Kelly Green, Executive Community Relations Officer at SPSCC, “The new building is a wonderful place for SPSCC students and staff to work out and stay healthy including through intramural athletics.”

With two campuses in Thurston County, one in Olympia on Mottman Road SW and one in Lacey on 6th Avenue SE, SPSCC prides itself on their motto, Success Amplified. Through a combination of small class sizes, a strong staff, and modern facilities, nationally-recognized SPSCC has been living up to their theme for more than sixty years.

While the new Health & Wellness Center is currently only open to students and staff, this past summer marked the return of youth sports camps for basketball, volleyball and soccer skills development. In addition to Clippers’ Men’s and Women’s Basketball, as well as Women’s

Volleyball this fall, SPSCC hopes to host local high school and sports teams in need of prep space for upcoming competitions.

SOUTH PUGET SOUND COMMUNITY COLLEGE spscc.edu

OLYMPIA OB/GYN HEROES:

Babies Born During a Pandemic

BY EMILY HAPPY

Babies are born when they are ready, not when a pandemic says so. For over two years, dedicated medical personnel tackled coronavirus challenges to safely deliver the newborns. That’s true of the team at Olympia Obstetrics & Gynecology (OOG) as they work with patients at the office and welcome babies at the Family Birth Center at Providence St. Peter Hospital in Olympia.

“We love moms and babies,” said Dr. Darrel Bell. “The virus hasn’t changed how special each delivery has been. I thank all those who protect mothers and babies by wearing masks and practice social distancing.” Providence’ Famly Birth Center welcomes moms and an essential support person in the delivery room which, for many patients, creates an intimate experience. These individuals are screened upon entry; moms are also tested. Masking goes without saying in healthcare facilities.

Expecting a newborn adds stress to an already challenging time in a family’s life. As they care

for moms and their babies, OOG and Family Birth Center staff work together to maintain the highest standards of care and safety. The goal is to keep newborns with their mothers in their rooms, as a basic tenet of infant and family-centered care.

Occasionally, separation is necessary because infant care cannot take place safely in the mom’s room. This is rare. An average of 100 babies a month are delivered by OOG’s medical staff with positive patient feedback.

OOG is using technology to keep everyone safe. Carie Bussey, certified nurse midwife with the clinic, said, “We’ve discovered a lot of silver linings. Health care workers have been forced to hop on the telemedicine effort. We’ve been able to quickly adopt what works for us and patients enjoy some benefits while remaining safely distanced. OOG utilizes a telehealth system that ties the visit to the patient’s electronic health record. Patients receive a link via email or text and can access us through

their mobile phones, iPads and desktops.” As a patient, you can request telehealth if you feel ill and your type visit works with telehealth parameters.

Deb Cannon, practice manager at the clinic, said, “We are a big family, and have worked hard and been successful in keeping COVID from coming into and speading within our facility. Our concern continues for our younger children who don’t yet qualify for a vaccine, as well as anyone who has not been able to participate so far, for whatever reason. Having moms vaccinated does provide some protection for babies, so we ask all to take that step to help protect the future. It is a blessing to have a less virulent strain of COVID at this time.” OOG anticipates continuation of masking and social distancing within their healthcare facility for the foreseeable future.

Service and convenience at the heart of LIGHT DENTAL STUDIOS

We can all agree on the qualities for the ideal dental provider: round-the-clock service, entire-family bookings, empathetic service and affordable care. It’s nearly impossible to find a full combination of such attributes. But then there’s Light Dental Studios.

The dentist-owned company—with 22 locations in the Puget Sound—has customer service at the core of its mission.

“We try to treat people the way we would want to be treated,” says owner and CEO Dr. Steven Broughton, who bought his first office from a former dentist in 1997. “People say our

practice feels like we’re all neighbors, like they’re just going down the street for friendly dental care.”

With hours from 7am to 7pm including Saturdays, doctors available 24/7 and entire-family, same-day care, Light Dental Studios has solutions patients need.

“We’re trying to make dentistry effortless by making it about our patients, not the dentists,” says Broughton. “Our schedule accommodates their schedule, not the other way around. Our doctors are always available, and almost all procedures are done in-house.”

BY LEAH GROUT

Besides standard dental checkups, treatments and other services, Light Dental Studios offers on-site orthodontics, implants, surgeries, and dentures. Children’s dental care is also offered. In fact, the offices frequently schedule care for entire families side-by-side on the same day to save time.

Light Dental Studios also gives back to the community at the annual South Sound Free Dental Day in May. That’s when the staff donates its time and skills to give away more than $150,000 worth of dental work — one filling or extraction — on a first-come, first-served basis.

“We want patients to feel comfortable,” Broughton says. “Our first goal is to provide quality treatment at affordable prices.”

Broughton notes that Light Dental Studios will continue to add offices over the upcoming years in growing neighborhoods. Visit their website for updates or you can find them on Facebook and Instagram.

Tumwater Eye Center (TEC) provides 21st century eye care solutions for your entire family. The organization is locally and independently owned and operated by lifelong Washingtonians. Dr. Douglas Jeske and Dr. Devin Finch are residency trained to provide high quality care for all their patients’ medical eye health and visual correction needs.

The doctors examine patients of all ages, prescribing FDA-approved solutions to prevent nearsightedness in children, providing simple at-home options to treat dry eye disease, and perform genetic testing to determine individualized supplements to prevent the progression of macular degeneration. Their use of industry leading technology provides the clearest images of your eyes, allowing both the doctor and patient to identify disease earlier than ever before, and to closely follow changes in eye health.

Tumwater Eye Center prides themselves on identifying the best eyeglass prescriptions to allow clear, comfortable vision for all their patients' needs, including prescription computer glasses with blue light protective lenses, and multifocal contact lenses which decrease the need for reading glasses over the contacts. Their optical staff are all

& Independent, Eye Care is Our Passion”

Licensed Dispensing Opticians and are experts in helping patients find the perfect pair to complement your personal style and budget. Optical measurements are completed using a patented device which allows our opticians to instantly capture 10 measurements while the patient is in their natural posture. Utilizing these measurements allow the patient to have the best visual experience with the modern progressive lens options.

The optical boutique at TEC offers a large selection of hand-crafted frames sourced from independent manufacturers around the world including Denmark, Italy, Austria, Canada, and the USA. They also strive to work with manufacturers that adhere to ethical hiring practices and pay a living wage. Some frames are created using plastic that has been recycled, removed from the ocean, or discarded from the frame manufacturing process. Their options for children are

BY LEAH GROUT

specifically chosen to be incredibly flexible and durable while being comfortable and safe to wear.

To learn more, call or text 360-352-6060. The patient service representatives at TEC can quickly and easily verify your insurance coverage and schedule your next eye examination for you and your entire family

TUMWATER EYE CENTER

6510 Capitol Blvd SE, Tumwater tumwatereye.com

“Innovative

Dr. Finch Dr. Jeske

GARDEN COURTE MEMORY CARE

A Premiere Senior Living Community

by MARY ELLEN PSALTIS

Remember to take a breath and appreciate being in the moment, which can be calming for everyone.

Memory care services can be tailored to fit your personal situation. Following a personal assessment, a specific care plan is created to determine what a resident needs. The base monthly rent at Garden Courte includes:

• Medication management

• Three meals per days with snacks throughout the day

• Some modified diets

• Weekly housekeeping and linen services

• Daily assistance with bedmaking

Living in memory care is a phase of life faced by many families. It may be for a spouse, parent or other relative. The Garden Courte Memory Care Community is a full-service facility that understands caring for a loved one is more than understanding the symptoms. It is important to value the person and create a space that is loving and safe.

Garden Courte is involved in the whole person with programming that considers connecting socially, spiritually, nutritionally, and intellectually. Every day there is time for interactions and play of all sorts. Family and friends are welcome to join events. Dignity and respect for individuals in a safe and comfortable setting are essential.

Garden Courte assists family members and friends with information to improve visits and

better communicate with people experiencing cognitive decline. Nonverbal communication is one aspect of learned skills that can be helpful for visitors. They may seem obvious and easy but seeing a loved one in decline has many challenges. Here are a few reminders:

• Be calm and patient, avoid interruptions and impatience.

• Keep your voice, face and body relaxed and positive.

• Be consistent, matching body language with your words.

• Make eye contact and respect personal space. You don’t need to hover.

• Use gentle touch for reassurance, appropriate to the resident.

• Watch your adult’s nonverbal activity for clues.

• Utilities (excluding phone and cable)

• Planned activities, exercise programs and social opportunities

• 24-hour staff for supervision and assistance

• RN oversight

• Regular monitoring for general health and well-being

• Apartment maintenance

Garden Courte creates a warm and familiar environment made to support the aging journey. You can take a virtual or actual tour of Garden Courte by calling or visiting the website or the Facebook page.

GARDEN COURTE

626 Lilly Rd NE, Olympia 360.491.4435

gardencourtemc.com

Kristine Hagara Accounting Specialist

Northwest Winter Safety Tips for Seniors

BY KELLY LENIHAN

During the winter months, slippery sidewalks and cold weather can cause a wide range of injuries and illnesses, especially for seniors. The following tips will help prevent common cold-weather dangers faced by the elderly population.

Avoid slipping on ice. Icy, snowy roads and sidewalks make it easy to slip and fall. These falls often cause major injuries such as hip and wrist fractures, head trauma and major lacerations. Make sure to wear shoes with good traction and nonskid soles, and stay indoors until the roads are clear.

Dress for warmth. Cold temperatures can lead to frostbite and hypothermia, a condition in which the body temperature dips too low. According to the CDC, people over the age of 65 are at greater risk of hypothermia-related death. So limit the time spent outdoors and dress in multiple layers with a good head covering.

Fight wintertime depression. Because it can be difficult and dangerous to get around, many seniors have less contact with others during cold months. This can breed feelings of loneliness and isolation. To help avoid these issues, family members can check in on seniors as often as possible. A short, daily phone call can also make a big difference. Seniors can arrange a check-in system with neighbors and friends, with each person looking in on one or two others daily.

Check the car. Driving during the winter can be hazardous for anyone. But it is especially dangerous for older people, who may no longer drive as often or whose reflexes may not be as quick as they once were. Get your car serviced before wintertime hits—or ask a family member to take it to a garage for you.

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Prepare for power outages. Winter storms can lead to power outages. Make sure you have easy access to flashlights and a battery-powered radio in case the power goes out. Stockpile warm blankets. Longer power outages can spoil the food in your refrigerator and freezer so keep a supply of nonperishable foods on hand that can be eaten cold. If the power goes out, wear several layers of clothing, including a hat. Move around a lot to raise your body temperature. Check out this winter weather checklist from the CDC to make sure you have everything you may need: cdc.gov/disasters/winter

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Prevent carbon monoxide poisoning. Using a fireplace, gas heater or lanterns can lead to carbon monoxide poisoning. Ensure your safety by checking the batteries on your carbon monoxide detector and buying an updated one if you need to. The most important tip to keep in mind during the colder months is to ask for help. Arrange rides to the grocery store and doctor’s appointments—many communities have shuttle services specifically for seniors. Don’t be afraid to reach out or help.

ICE (in case of emergency). For seniors who live alone and their long-distance care team: Print out a contact card/in case of emergency card for your senior to give to trusted neighbors, landlords, clergy, and so on to easily locate family members (or power of attorney) should an issue arise.

Wintertime certainly poses challenges for seniors, but with planning and awareness, you will stay healthy and experience the joys of springtime soon enough.