With increasing concerns about environmental pollution, the state legislature issued a ban on single-use plastic. It also imposed corresponding fees for using other types of shopping bags effective … more

For people who live in apartments, duplexes, tiny houses or houses with tiny yards, community gardens are the 21st century’s version of a micro homestead – one that usually comes with … more

New Traditions Cafe today rejoined its sister operation, New Traditions Fair Trade, as an open and ready business. The Cafe was closed for six months both because of pandemic restrictions and to … more

May 7, 2020, wasn’t the ideal date to open a new restaurant, but sometimes you have to work with the hand you’re dealt. Nicole Andres has worked as a bartender in the Thurston County … more

The COVID-19 pandemic has dished up a steady serving of uncertainty — and in some instance, closures — for restaurants near and far. It was in that uncertainty that the folks at Octapas … more

Anyone who cares about the Thurston County agriculture and farmland -- or who appreciates locally grown veggies and meat -- is invited to complete an online survey to share your perspective on local … more

Just before 10 pm last night fire took out the old barn at Lattin’s Cider Mill & Farm, damaging surrounding structures and trees. The cider mill, farm stand and bakery were not damaged … more

  Unless you’re looking for it, you’ll probably miss the hole-in-the-wall that is The Cider Barrel. Not only is it in the middle of the block, the sign is small, and the doors are … more

What better time than a during a pandemic, with small businesses and restaurants closing every day, to start a new food-service business?  And at only 10 or 12 years of age? That’s what … more

One of my greatest memories, and that which separated South Sounders from others, is berry picking. Every kid during the 1950’s and 1960's picked berries.  As soon as school let out in … more