Illustration by Jeff Freels
"It's the water."
Continuing with our yearlong theme of apocalyptic special sections in honor of the end of the world and the last year ever, 2012, we proudly present this year's installment of Best of Olympia. From shooting this year's Best Olympian, Mathias Eichler, in the middle of Washington Street, to collecting fantastic contributions from all of the Volcano's Oly-based staff, I can personally say this year's issue has been a true joy to put together.
For Olympians, the apocalypse will almost certainly be officially signaled by rising tides and crashing water. "It's the water," will take on a whole new meaning. In this spirit, let the waves of Best of Olympia cover artist Jeff Freels wash over you, launching you through sections of highlighted awesomeness from Olympia and throughout Thurston County.
Arts. Music. Food. Dining. Retail. If it kicks ass, and it's in Thurston County, chances are it's in this issue.
Thanks to all the readers who participated in this year's Best of Olympia Readers' Poll. This issue wouldn't be possible without you.
And thanks for reading. We hope you like it. - Editor Matt Driscoll
Guides
Mathias Eichler honored for his Olympia community development through local business, events and overall downtown livelihood - another integral part of our Olympian identity.
Guides
Weekly Volcano staff names the best in Olympia city living for 2012
Guides
Weekly Volcano readers pick the best on Thurston County streets
Guides
Andy Geertsen was overwhelmingly voted "Best Bartender" by Volcano readers in this year's Best of Olympia Readers Poll.
Guides
Weekly Volcano staff names the best food and drink in Thurston County.
Guides
Weekly Volcano readers pick the best food and drink in Thurston County.
Guides
The gallery, which displays only art made with reclaimed and recycled materials, showcases much more than paintings and sculptures.
Guides
Weekly Volcano staff names the best arts and entertainment in Thurston County.
Guides
Weekly Volcano readers pick the best arts and entertainment in Thurston County.
Guides
Weekly Volcano readers pick Science as the best new band in Thurston County.
Guides
Weekly Volcano staff names the best in Olympia music for 2012.
Guides
Weekly Volcano readers pick the best in Thurston County music.
Guides
It's no exaggeration to say Orca Books is part of the reason I moved to Olympia.
Guides
Weekly Volcano staff name the best in retail in Thurston County
Guides
Weekly Volcano readers name the best retail in Thurston County
