The Weekly Volcano's 2015 Best of Olympia issue could feels a bit like "The Mr. Clean" edition. The 3-year-old Downtown Project has launched the walking patrol program to increase police presence, approved drug-free zones, added an Alcohol Impact Area to reduce public intoxication and drug-related crime; Downtown Ambassadors walk the streets, the Clean Team removes trash and graffiti, and the Olympia City Council is moving forward on the process for establishing a Community Renewal Area, which would allow the city to make deals with private property owners to address blighted buildings in downtown Olympia. It's a testament to Olympia as a dynamic, growing city.
We're hoping that energy will be reflected in the answers to our annual reader's poll, too. Every year the Weekly Volcano asks the faithful to vote for their favorites around Thurston County - from bars to burgers, from vegetarian-friendly eatery to city visionary. The Volcano's Best of Olympia Readers' Poll is the soap and water that drives the Best of Olympia 2015 special edition. Think you know the best restaurant, politician, brewery or thrift store? Want to help spread the word about the best bike shop, hair salon or bar in Thurston County? Cast your vote below. The results of our survey will be published in the Weekly Volcano Best of Olympia issue Thursday, Feb. 26, 2015.
Of course, we have opinions, too. The Weekly Volcano staff spent the past 12 months dining, drinking, sneaking around the Capitol Campus, and shopping our way across Thurston County - yes Lacey, Tumwater and outlining towns are part of the special issue, too. And now that we're finished, we're ready to connect you with the places and people that stand as the absolute Best of Olympia.
THE PRIZE!
All ballots must be filled out Saturday, Jan. 31 at 11:45 p.m. Those that arrive before the deadline will be eligible to win an overnight stay for two and $100 diner at The Red Lion Hotel Olympia. The winning ballot will be chosen at random. The winner will be announced at the 2015 Best of Olympia Party at Rhythm & Rye in downtown Olympia.
The Best of Olympia 2015 is sponsored by U.S. Marine Sales & Service in Olympia.
The Best of Olympia 2015 is co-sponsored by Hop Valley Brewing Co.
OK, enough blabbering. Cast your vote: