What does “quality of life” really mean—and how do we know if it’s improving? This summer, the Thurston Chamber released its second annual Quality of Life Index, designed to measure how residents evaluate life in Thurston County. While the overall grade remained a steady “C+,” the story beneath the surface is more complex—and more hopeful.
In this issue, we take a closer look at the results. Respondents gave higher marks this year to all seven community attributes, with notable improvement in areas like housing affordability and homelessness— indicating that persistent community challenges may be turning a corner. Even perceptions around growth and development shifted, with more residents viewing it as a positive force for their neighborhoods.
Also in this issue, meet the inspiring team behind RevMo Choppers & Coffee, a unique Olympia business that blends motorcycles, espresso, and community connection. After a devastating fire and a pandemic, they rebuilt—not just a shop, but a space for creativity, camaraderie, and giving back.
We also welcome Michael Day as the new CEO of Experience Olympia & Beyond. With global tourism experience and Northwest roots, Day is poised to bring fresh energy to Thurston County’s visitor economy.
And finally, step inside the newly opened Olympia Arts & Heritage Alliance Museum—a dynamic, free space where Olympia’s history, cultures, and creativity come alive.
From metrics to motorcycles, heritage to hospitality—this issue celebrates what makes Thurston County vibrant, resilient, and uniquely ours.
THURSTON COUNTY CHAMBER
“ I feel like they’re personally invested in my success. ”
Between Sisters Boutique, Yelm
Heidi Potter was rst introduced to OlyFed while serving on a local board’s nance committee.
When she opened Between Sisters Boutique, choosing a bank was easy—she already knew the caring team at the Yelm branch.
What sets OlyFed apart for Heidi is their genuine commitment to relationship banking. The team knows her by name, asks about her grandkids and truly understands the local community—because they’re a part of it, too.
For Heidi, it’s more than banking — it’s partnership and a sense of belonging. She’s seen rsthand how mutual means more with OlyFed!
BANKING THAT’S MUTUAL
Heidi Potter, Owner Between Sisters Boutique, Yelm
Inside the Simpson Door Company Crafting Quality Doors, Backed by
a Clean Foundation
At Preferred Cleaning Service Inc., we’re proud to partner with industry leaders like Simpson Door Company, known for quality craftsmanship and sustainability.
We take pride in partnering with new clients and making a positive impact, just like Simpson Door Company. For every contract we secure, we sponsor a child, providing clean drinking water, access to education, and support for their daily needs.
We are not just a cleaning company. We love giving back as we provide the services people deserve in their business and in life.
August 2025
OF THE THURSTON COUNTY BUSINESS COMMUNITY
Visit thurstonchamber.com/events or scan the QR code for more info about all upcoming Thurston Chamber events.
After Hours
Join our host, 1889 Prime Steakhouse at 406 5th Ave, Olympia, WA 98501 on Thursday, August 7 at 5:30 p.m. for a special Thurston Young Professionals Networking Event. Enjoy bites and beverages as you expand your network! All are welcome –feel free to invite other 20 to 30-year olds so they can expand their networks! Thurston Young Professionals is sponsored by KGY Media Group.
Join our Business After Hours host 1st Security Bank at 2610 Harrison Ave NW, Olympia, WA 98502 on Thursday, August 21 at 5:30 p.m. for mingling and networking with other business professionals, a door prize business card drawing, beverages and appetizers. Business After Hours is a great opportunity to expand your network, and it is proudly sponsored by ROXY 94.5
Join the Chamber on Wednesday, August 13, 2025, at 11:00 a.m., at Saint Martin’s University’s Norman Worthington Center at 5300 Pacific Ave SE, Lacey, WA 98503 for an August Forum centered around the regional economic impact of FIFA World Cup 26TM. The event will also feature a BIPOC Business EXPO featuring members of SSBIPOC. Register at thurstonchamber.com/events. Thank you to our sponsors, Big Brothers Big Sisters of Southwest Washington, The YMCA, and PestStop. Register at thurstonchamber.com/events.
On Friday, September 5, join us for the 61st annual Foofaraw! –an unforgettable day for our local military heroes, hosted by the Thurston County Chamber and the Olympia Yacht Club. The Port of Olympia kicks things off with a grand send-off featuring local police, medics, and fire departments, and a giant American flag hoisted by one of their cranes. Includes a salmon bake provided by Confederated Tribes of the Chehalis. To sponsor, donate prizes, and purchase tickets go to thurstonchamber.com/events.
Refuel at Revmo Choppers & Coffee p. 7
Thanks to downtown Olympia’s RevMo Choppers & Coffee, you can chop, build, restore and caffeinate all under one roof.
Have an Aha! Moment at Oly's New Arts, History & Culture Museum p. 11
Olympia Arts & Heritage Alliance (Oly Aha!) opens a museum to tell the story of Olympia, the cultures around it, and the art inspired by it.
Thurston County Quality of Life Index p. 14
In its 2nd year, the Thurston County Quality of Life Index aims to measure residents' evaluations of various aspects of life in Thurston County, and any changes over time.
Caught in the Lens p. 20
Keep up with the latest Chamber happenings and see all of the great smiles that make up our membership!
The VOICE prints on FSC® Certified paper. The Forest Stewardship Council® (FSC), is a non-profit organization that sets certain high standards to make sure that forestry is practiced in an environmentally responsible and socially beneficial manner. Thank You Sponsors!
Celebrating 20 years at the Saint Martin’s University Gala
November 1, 2025
Join us for an unforgettable evening as we honor two decades of extraordinary moments, distinguished chefs and the inspiring students who are at the heart of our mission.
Step into an atmosphere of timeless elegance with a speakeasy flair, and savor bold, authentic Mexican cuisine as we welcome acclaimed celebrity chef Rick Bayless to the stage. Winner of Top Chef Masters and host of the Emmy-nominated series Mexico – One Plate at a Time, Chef Bayless brings his passion and culinary artistry to this milestone celebration.
This black-tie evening supports student scholarships and celebrates the spirit of Saint Martin’s.
Reserve your tickets today at www.stmartin.edu/Gala or call 360-438-4366..
FIND A NEW FAVORITE PAIRING AT RevMo Choppers & Coffee
RevMo blends caffeine, creativity, and Olympia’s offbeat spirit under one roof
by Kathryn Millhorn
Peanut butter and jelly. Movies and popcorn. Some things just naturally go together. Other pairings might sound unlikely—but they work. Take Cincinnati chili on spaghetti, a local favorite, or… motorcycles and coffee? Thanks to downtown Olympia’s RevMo Choppers & Coffee, you can chop, build, restore, and caffeinate all under one roof.
Keep Systems Running with Motorcycle Maintenance, Coffee, and Pastries at RevMo
Like the human body, a motorcycle relies on multiple systems working together—and it needs fuel to keep going. At RevMo, co-owners Audrey Henley and Jimmi
Davies provide just that: a boost for both bike and brain.
Davies, an Evergreen State College grad, made a career shift in 2018 from furniture restoration and lighting design. “Jimmi has always had a knack for mechanics, mostly out of necessity, since skilled mechanics are hard to find,” says Henley. “Let’s be honest: when you drive old cars or motorcycles, the most affordable and reliable way to keep them running is often to fix them yourself.”
Davies began building and restoring motorcycles on the side to supplement his lighting business. The interest quickly grew—especially in his custom choppers,
a style few build commercially in Olympia. “Our yard was soon overflowing with bikes, parts, and curious strangers,” Henley recalls. That demand inspired them to move from a backyard operation to a dedicated space, opening RevMo—originally called Revival—as a full brick-and-mortar shop.
A Welcoming Community Space Serving Up Pastries and Oil Changes
Davies and Henley are longtime riders themselves and wanted RevMo to feel like a true reflection of their diverse biker family. “As we started brainstorming with friends about what a shop could be—and what we, as bikers, need most—the idea grew into something bigger: a community space,” says Henley.
They envisioned a place where riders of all skill levels would feel welcome. A shop that’s affordable, straightforward, and free of mansplaining. “We built RevMo to have a killer cup of coffee, a comfy spot to hang out, and a literal window into what’s happening in the shop,” Henley explains.
It hasn’t always been easy. In 2021, Revival Motors and Coffee (their original name) burned down, and then the pandemic kept customers at home. But through it all, says Henley, “we can’t recall a time since when our community hasn’t stepped up—lifting us through loss, helping us survive the challenges of COVID, and now filling our shop with their presence and positivity. We’re truly grateful for everything this community has given us and we’ll always do our best to return that love and energy.”
Giving Back, One Oil Change, Latte, or Chocolate Orange Cupcake at a Time
As they’ve rebuilt time and again, Davies and Henley have come to value the support of groups like the Thurston County Chamber
and Thurston EDC. Both organizations cohosted RevMo’s grand reopening ribbon cutting, and Henley calls their services “essential resources for business owners, from marketing and networking to financial knowledge and funding opportunities.”
Giving back is a big part of RevMo’s mission. Beyond offering honest, fair, and inclusive motorcycle service to Olympia’s community, they also partner with organizations like United Way of Thurston County, Capital City Pride, Olympia Soroptimists, and Capital Recovery.
And then there’s the food. RevMo serves up delicious coffee from Caffe Umbria, a regional roaster known for its classic Italian style. Their pastries and breakfast bites are made fresh inhouse every day, with plenty of gluten-free and vegan-friendly options. They even craft many of their syrups and sauces from scratch.
RevMo Celebrates Choppers, Coffee, and the Resilient Oly Spirit
For Davies and Henley, Olympia was the only place they ever considered opening their business. “It’s our home and the community we love—and that loves us right back,” says Henley.
“This beautiful capital city is an incubator for the unusual, edgy, and creative. What we do is weird and wonderful, just like this city and its people. Opening our doors anywhere else was never an option.”
Follow RevMo on Facebook, Instagram, or at www.RevMoChoppers.com to catch upcoming pop-ups, motorcycle shows, swap meets, workshops, art installations, and more. You’ll also find them at local events, serving coffee and sharing smiles. Have a framed photo of yourself or a family member on a motorcycle? Bring it by and add it to their gallery wall. Then discover your next favorite pairing—or maybe even your next bike—at RevMo.
Olympia Arts & Heritage Alliance Museum Now Open
Free
admission, rotating exhibits, and a mission to tell Olympia’s story — one face and place at a time.
Olympia isn’t just a stop between Seattle and Portland — it’s where many incredible things come together. Education and government, coffee and culture, a working waterfront and a quirky art scene all intersect here.
Now, you can cheer “OlyAHA!” and celebrate the grand opening of the Olympia Arts & Heritage Alliance Museum, thanks to the dedication of the Olympia Arts & Heritage Alliance.
A Vibrant Gathering Space Celebrating Everything That Makes Olympia Special
The Museum officially opened its doors on June 28, 2025, but this project has been years in the making. Founded in 2018, the Olympia Arts & Heritage Alliance (AHA) set out with a clear mission: to create a museum that serves as a destination and gathering place—where
by Kathryn Millhorn
people can learn about, reflect on, and draw inspiration from Olympia’s uniquely rich arts, cultures, and history.
For Museum board president—and former Olympia mayor—Cheryl Selby, the work of collecting and preserving culturally significant resources is deeply important. She shares that the Alliance has long envisioned a place that “tells the story of Olympia through the abundance of cultures that have shaped our development over time, both the good and the difficult.”
This initial version of the Museum is a kind of pilot—an experience they hope will grow into a larger venue in the future. It features art tied to Olympia’s history, showcases community-focused works, and highlights local artists. Exhibits will rotate throughout the year, centered on themes, anniversaries, local festivals, and cherished events.
The Olympia Arts & Heritage Alliance Museum Welcomes Residents and Visitors Alike
Like any new project, the Museum continues to evolve every day. One plan in the work is to use its flex space for workshops and guest speakers tied to current exhibits, and they recently brought on a new staff member to help guide future programming.
The Alliance is also in discussions with the City of Olympia about potentially leasing the former Family Support Center in the historic fire station on Capitol Way when they outgrow their current location.
For those looking to get involved, board president Cheryl Selby says volunteers are always welcome—whether it’s staffing the lobby desk or serving as tour guides and docents. “Even though we’ve only been open a short time, traffic through the space has been brisk,” Selby shares. “It’s a blast helping people discover our city—its creativity, its history, and all the wonderful amenities it has to offer.”
Help the New AHA! Museum Make History in Olympia, About Olympia
Thanks to the Inspire Olympia grant program and the city’s Cultural Access Advisory Board, admission to the Olympia Arts & Heritage Alliance Museum is free. “This way, there aren’t any barriers to visiting,” says Selby. “Although donations are always welcome!”
Near the museum’s entrance and visitor center, opening exhibitions include button blankets by Ruth Whitener and Vicki Engel. Just beyond, near the windows overlooking State Avenue, you’ll find Blazed and Mountaineer Creek Char by artist Suze Woolf, featuring delicate hanging panels of silk organza accompanied by additional text panels on either side.
In the North Gallery, visitors can explore works by seven regional artists paired with a collection of historical postcards. Featured artists include Doyle Fanning, Kathy Gore Fuss, Mimi Williams, Joe Seymour, and Tom Anderson.
The South Gallery, the museum’s largest exhibition space, is home to Our Town Through Sylvester’s Windows. This collection of eight paintings captures Sylvester Park and the heart of Olympia from the early 1800s through 2000, illustrating how city corridors have evolved and storefronts have changed names, all while Sylvester Park remains a beloved gathering place and landmark. The exhibition also delves into local history, including stories of Capital Lakefair and the Pagan Frolic event that brought Olympia together in the summer of 1935.
For these inaugural exhibitions, the Olympia Arts & Heritage Alliance collaborated with Jonathan Happ, gallery director at Childhood’s End Gallery, to thoughtfully curate and display the artwork. They also partnered with the Olympia Historical Society and Bigelow House Museum and look forward to building more community partnerships for future exhibits.
In the year ahead, the museum plans to continue highlighting local history and regional culture through new artistic displays and exhibitions. Possible future themes include Olympia Harbor Days, the region’s deep ties to the shellfish industry, and community oral history projects. The museum may also host special programs connected to these exhibitions, such as artist talks and book discussions.
This past spring, the Museum marked May’s Historic Preservation Month with a series of free walking tours showcasing downtown’s iconic buildings. These tours were sponsored by the Olympia Arts & Heritage Alliance in partnership with the Olympia Heritage Commission and Olympia Historical Society & Bigelow House Museum.
To explore what’s happening now, visit www.OlyAHA.org or stop by the Olympia Arts & Heritage Alliance Museum at 203 Columbia Street NW. The Museum is open Thursday through Sunday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Be sure to sign up for their newsletter or follow them on Facebook and Instagram for the latest exhibits and events.
How would YOU rate Thurston County as a place to live?
by Doug Mah, Doug Mah & Associates, Public Policy Director, Thurston County Chamber
The Thurston County Chamber worked to answer this question… and more.
This summer marks the completion of the Thurston Chamber’s second annual Quality of Life Index. The Index aims to measure residents’ evaluation of various aspects of life throughout Thurston County and to document changes in these evaluations over time.
For the last two years, a total of 500 residents, selected at random from a list of registered voters in the county, were interviewed by telephone and online during the month of June. Survey respondents were asked to assess various aspects of life in Thurston County by giving letter grades “like they do in school.”
The overall rating was unchanged between 2024 and 2025 with respondents giving a “C+” to as a place to live. The C+ grade was expected since it takes a significant event to move this kind of measure quickly. However, there were some measures that should be on the “watch list” to see if they are continuing trends.
For example, a large majority of Thurston County voters interviewed were satisfied with the quality of life but they were also less optimistic this year compared to the last. Although the differences are not statistically significant, this year we find that fewer respondents expect things to get better and more expect things to get worse over the next year for the county, their community and their household.
Like last year, respondents graded 7 “community attributes” and we found that all 7 received higher marks than last year. The top 3 attributes remained atop the list and include: the county as a place to raise a family (2.64 GPA), and to grow old (2.50 GPA), and the “sense of community” (2.50 GPA). Three other attributes were significantly higher than last year including “Housing affordability” and “Homelessness” demonstrating that some progress is being made on these seemingly intractable issues.
Another interesting development is that the respondents are substantially more positive about growth and development compared to last year. Sixty nine percent of respondents agreed that “All things considered, growth and development has been positive for my community” – compared to 59 percent last year. In addition, 55 percent said they would support “the construction of more housing in my neighborhood”– compared to 41 percent last year.
The Quality of Life survey was designed, administered, and analyzed by Elway Research. It is a resource for the community and will help drive and frame community discussions and debates. The yearto-year changes in survey results provide a measure of our progress. This helps hold us accountable for achieving the community we aspire to become. Please take a deeper dive into the survey online at: bit.ly/Thurston_QOL
Thurston County as a Place to Live:
Q1: Overall, how would you rate Thurston County as a place to live? If you were to give a grade – like they do in school – would you say...?
A for Excellent
B for Very Good
C for Satisfactory
D for Unsatisfactory
F for Poor
No Opinion
Positive Agreement About Growth
Q8: The following are some statements that have been made about living in Thurston County. As I read each one, tell me if you Agree, Agree Strongly, Disagree or Disagree Strongly with that statement:
1) “All things considered, growth and development has been positive for my community.”
Opinion
2) “I would support the construction of more housing in my neighborhood.” Take a deeper dive into the survey online. Scan the QR code or visit: bit.ly/Thurston_QOL
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Get to Know Michael Day
WELCOME THE NEW CEO OF EXPERIENCE OLYMPIA & BEYOND
Experience Olympia and Beyond, the official destination marketing organization for Thurston County, announced in early June the appointment of Michael Day as its new Chief Executive Officer, after a nationwide search. A seasoned tourism executive with deep roots in the Pacific Northwest, Day brings a global perspective to Thurston County.
Born and raised on the waters of the Puget Sound in Edmonds, Day is a proud University of Washington graduate whose career in international tourism has spanned all seven continents. He began his journey as a cruise director aboard the world’s first custom-built charter and incentive cruise ship, before rising to the role of vice president of entertainment for three luxury cruise lines.
Day’s journey eventually brought him back to land, where he served for seven years as general manager of convention centers and arenas throughout Baton Rouge, La., and Reno, Nev. Most recently, Day served as the Corporate Sales Manager for North America at Crystal Cruises, where he built strategic partnerships and drove market expansion across diverse segments of the travel industry. This dual expertise in both cruise and land-based hospitality, combined with his strong sales expertise, positions him uniquely to lead the Experience Olympia & Beyond team with vision and purpose. Day brings a deep understanding of what captivates travelers, and is committed to increasing leisure, meetings, and sports tourism in Thurston County by leveraging data-driven strategies, building industry relationships, and championing the region’s unique offerings.
“Having hosted tourists on all seven continents, I can confidently say that Thurston County offers some of the world’s most breathtaking natural beauty,” said Day. “From the serene base of Puget Sound to the majestic heights of Mount Rainier, this region truly serves as a bridge between two iconic landscapes. I am honored to lead the talented team at Experience Olympia & Beyond in sharing our unparalleled scenery, vibrant farm-to-table culinary scenes, and exceptional craft beer experiences with visitors from near and far.”
In addition to his impressive professional background, Day is also passionate about community and mentorship. In his spare time, he has coached youth basketball, leading the South Florida Wildcats to two Florida State Championships in AAU and USSSA leagues.
How Will the FIFA World Cup 26™ Impact Our Regional Economy?
The Thurston County Chamber invites the community to its August Forum for an inside look at the global phenomenon of the FIFA World Cup 26™ and the massive economic impact expected when the tournament arrives in North America next summer. With Seattle selected as one of 16 host cities, next year’s World Cup is projected to generate billions in economic activity and draw millions of visitors to the U.S., including potential economic ripple effects for the South Sound region.
Join us on Wednesday, August 13, 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM at the Marcus Pavilion at Saint Martin’s University for a presentation and Q&A session featuring:
• Dylan Ordoñez, Senior Vice President of External Affairs, Seattle FIFA World Cup (SeattleFWC26) Local Organizing Committee
• Vaughn Taylor, Vice President of Economic Development, Seattle Metro Chamber of Commerce
As the world’s largest sporting event, the FIFA World Cup 26TM offers more than just entertainment; it presents a once-in-ageneration opportunity to drive tourism, business development, and international visibility across our state. This Forum will explore:
• What makes the World Cup such a globally significant event.
• The projected economic impact of hosting matches in Seattle and how it may affect surrounding communities.
• A brief overview of the Olympia/Lacey World Cup Fan Zone and the strong local soccer culture that positions Thurston County to join in the celebration.
Dylan Ordoñez leads external affairs for SeattleFWC26, including Government Relations, Community Affairs, and other strategic partnerships. Combined with experience in the sports industry and his involvement in the 2026 bid process, he plays a pivotal role in shaping how Seattle and Washington State will welcome the world in 2026.
Vaughn Taylor brings deep expertise in economic development strategy and public-private partnerships. At the Seattle Metro Chamber, he aligns regional economic opportunities with major events like the World Cup to ensure long-term benefits for communities and local businesses.
The event will include a BIPOC Business EXPO featuring members of South Sound BIPOC. SSBIPOC is an effort supported by the Chamber Foundation to provide visibility, education, and marketing opportunities to businesses owned or run by BIPOC community members. Attendees will have the chance to connect with these exceptional entrepreneurs, discover innovative products and services, and support the growth of BIPOC-owned businesses.
Register to attend Forum or to showcase in the BIPOC Business EXPO at tinyurl.com/mujwykdk.
Caught in the Lens
Keep up with the Thurston Chamber happenings – ribbon cuttings and the networking events. Find more at the Chamber's Facebook page – fb.com/thurstoncountychamber.
A Special Day for Our Military Members
FRIDAY SEPTEMBER 5
Join us for the 61st annual Foofaraw! On Friday, September 5, the Thurston County Chamber and the Olympia Yacht Club will host an unforgettable day for our local military heroes.
Every year, always the first Friday after Labor Day, we gather at the Olympia Yacht Club to set sail for Island Home. Foofaraw is a special event loved by military members across the United States. Yacht club members will ferry our guests to the island, where they’ll enjoy a day filled with fun games, a delicious salmon bake, and heartfelt recognition from local leaders. This tasty feast is provided by Lucky Eagle Casino & Hotel and The Confederated Tribes of the Chehalis.
The event is special, with two service members for every civilian. The Port of Olympia kicks things off with a grand send-off featuring local police, medics, and fire departments, and a giant American flag hoisted by one of their cranes.
The word "Foofaraw" means "much ado about nothing," and for one day each year, our military guests get to say "Foof" to their duties and just have fun.
Sponsor tickets are limited and only available to Chamber Members. We’re also accepting donations for the free military raffle held throughout the day.
For more information or to donate, call the Chamber at 360-357-3362. Tickets and registration information is available at thurstonchamber.com/events
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