O'Blarney's Irish Pub is gearing up for its 40th anniversary with a vibrant celebration on Friday, September 20.

 

The festivities begin at 11:00 AM, welcoming regulars and newcomers alike for a day packed with live music, food, and cheer.

 

Starting at noon, the Beer Garden will feature local favorites like Kitty Mae, Head Over Feet, and Big Blue Van, promising lively entertainment well into the evening.

 

For forty years, O'Blarney's has stood as more than a pub—it’s been a community hub where friendships form and memories are made over hearty meals and good company.

 

Attendees can expect classic pub fare, a broad drink selection, and an atmosphere buzzing with celebration.

 

O’Blarney’s 40th anniversary offers Olympia a chance to celebrate a true local institution.

Trader Joe’s is preparing to open a new location in Lacey, Washington, taking over the former Rite Aid site at 691 Sleater Kinney Road SE.

 

After years of eager community requests, the beloved grocery chain will welcome shoppers in late 2025, following a complete revamp of the old pharmacy space.

 

This opening answers strong demand from Thurston County locals craving more specialty grocery options close to home.

 

The new store is predicted to boost the local economy, offering fresh job opportunities and attracting more visitors to the area, positively impacting nearby businesses.

 

The decision to open in Lacey reflects Trader Joe’s focus on serving enthusiastic communities and breathing life into underused commercial properties.

 

Residents can look forward to enjoying unique products and affordable favorites as anticipation grows for the grand opening.

Olympia locals have a special chance this week to welcome a new animal companion into their homes.

 

Joint Animal Services is holding a Waived Fee Adoption Event, running from Tuesday, August 26 through Friday, August 29.

 

All adoption fees are being covered by the generosity of Best Friends Animal Society, making it easier than ever to adopt.

 

This event helps connect loving families with pets while easing the shelter’s crowding concerns.

 

Adopted animals receive a health check, required vaccinations, deworming, a microchip, and are already spayed or neutered.

 

Taking home a pet means both adding joy to your household and backing the shelter’s caring mission.

 

Visit Joint Animal Services between August 26 and 29 to meet pets ready for adoption.

August in the Pacific Northwest brings warm, dry weather, putting local gardens to the test.

 

Prioritize deep, infrequent watering early or late in the day to help roots grow strong while minimizing water loss.

 

Spread mulch around your plants—materials like straw or compost keep soil moist, stop weeds, and add nutrients as they break down.

 

Keep gardens lush by deadheading spent flowers and pruning back summer-blooming shrubs once their display ends.

 

Remove dead branches for improved airflow and healthier growth.

 

Stay ahead of weeds with regular pulling and another layer of mulch for added control.

 

Watch for summer pests like aphids and slugs, choosing organic remedies when possible.

 

August is perfect for testing soil and adding compost or planting cover crops for next season’s strength.

 

Take notes now and plan for a thriving garden all year.

The Gate-Belmore Trail is now open in Thurston County, inviting walkers, bikers, and runners to explore a thoughtfully restored route.

 

Converted from a historic railroad, the trail’s first 2.7 miles link Olympia’s Mima Road SW to prairies near the Glacial Heritage Preserve, with plans to extend it 14.5 miles through wetlands and forests toward Littlerock.

 

This project enhances local recreation and forms a critical link in connecting more than 50 miles of regional trails.

 

Care was taken to remove invasive plants, restore native grasses and wildflowers, and protect habitats for pollinators and rare species like the Taylor’s checkerspot butterfly.

 

Wildlife—from bluebirds to alligator lizards—has returned, and construction was carefully timed to minimize ecological impact.

 

Future expansions will include a bridge over the Black River, further weaving natural and local history into Thurston County’s outdoor network.