Dave Winter, Executive Director and Mary Kniestedt, Communications Manager, Capitol Land Trust
100 Years of Olympia Golf:
The
Class of 2026
Pictured:
PUBLISHER
Thurston County Chamber of Commerce
EDITORIAL
David Schaffert
360-357-3362 dschaffert@thurstonchamber.com
CONTRIBUTORS
David Schaffert
Kathryn Millhorn
ADVERTISING
Sales & Marketing:
Krystal Barkus-Franco
Elizabeth MacLean
SUBSCRIPTIONS
360-357-3362 info@thurstonchamber.com
DESIGN
Ben Hawkes Mosaic Marketing Studio
COVER
Dave Winter, Executive Director and Mary Kniestedt, Communications Manager, Capitol Land Trust, Photo by Shanna Paxton Photography.
PRINTING Print NW
CONTACT THE CHAMBER 809 Legion Way SE Olympia, WA 98507 360-357-3362 info@thurstonchamber.com thurstonchamber.com
In This Issue: June 2026
by David Schaffert, President/CEO, Thurston County Chamber
Summer in Thurston County has a way of reminding us what community looks like. It looks like neighbors gathering on the patio, families making memories, leaders stepping forward, and organizations investing in places and experiences that make our region stronger for generations to come.
This month’s issue highlights organizations that are deeply rooted in our community while continuing to look ahead.
We celebrate a remarkable milestone with Olympia Country & Golf Club as they mark 100 years of creating connection, tradition, recreation, and belonging right here in Thurston County. Their story is one of resilience, adaptation, and the kind of long-term thinking that strengthens communities over time.
You’ll also meet Capitol Land Trust, an organization quietly doing work that shapes the future of our region every single day. Through conservation, stewardship, and helping people build stronger relationships with the outdoors, they’re protecting the natural spaces that make living and doing business in Thurston County so special.
And as we look toward June, we invite you to join us in celebrating the Leadership Thurston County Class of 2026. These graduates have spent the last ten months learning, connecting, asking hard questions, and building the relationships needed to lead our communities into the future. Their graduation is more than a ceremony—it’s a reminder that leadership doesn’t happen by accident. It happens when people choose to engage.
At the Chamber, we believe a prosperous economy and vibrant community are built through exactly these kinds of connections—between people and places, business and community, tradition and innovation.
Thanks for reading and for being part of the work.
See you out in the community.
THURSTON COUNTY CHAMBER
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Spruce Skin & Wax Shoppe
W hen Spruce Skin & Wax Shoppe owner Annie Evans was looking for a relationship bank that felt convenient and community connected, the choice was clear. With a branch across the street from her Chehalis location, OlyFed was already a trusted neighbor.
As a busy entrepreneur, Annie values having a bank that keeps things simple and responsive, allowing her to focus on her clients and growing her business.
“I know that when the time comes for my next investment or business venture, OlyFed will be there to listen and understand the nuances of our region and market,” Annie says.
It’s the kind of partnership that continues to show how mutual means more at OlyFed.
Spruce Skin & Wax Shoppe
Annie Evans, Owner
Featuring 25+ locally owned businesses to shop, eat, and experience in one place.
June 2026
THE VOICE OF THE THURSTON COUNTY BUSINESS COMMUNITY
Visit thurstonchamber.com/events or scan the QR code for more info about all upcoming Thurston Chamber events.
Join our host, Tumwater Taco Company at 4242
Capitol Boulevard S #110, on Thursday, June 4, 2026 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 and The MultiCare Foundation.
Join our Business After Hours host Alicia Sanders Allstate at 100 Ruby St SE Suite A, Tumwater, WA 98501 on Thursday, June 18, 2026 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
The Thurston Chamber Education Foundation and Leadership Thurston County (LTC) invite the community to a special June Forum ceremony honoring Leadership Thurston County's 32nd graduating class on Wednesday, June 10, 2026, at the Norman Worthington Center at Saint Martin’s University, 5300 Pacific Avenue SE, Lacey, WA 98503. The annual graduation ceremony recognizes a new class of community leaders who have completed LTC's immersive 10-month civic leadership program. Thank you to our Presenting Sponsor, Olympic Rental & Landlord Services. Reserve your tickets today at thurstonchamber.com
Thank You Sponsors!
IN THIS ISSUE
Connecting People, Conserving Land p. 7
Mary Kniestedt details Capitol Land Trust's recent work. Over the past 40 years, the trust has protected more than 6,700 acres and nearly 20 miles of Puget Sound marine shoreline.
Olympia Country & Golf Club Celebrates Its Centennial p. 13 As the club turns 100, the community is invited to reminisce over it's rich history all year long and be reminded why it is far more than just a golf course.
Congratulations LTC Class of 2026! p. 20 Thurston County Chamber Foundation's Leadership Thurston County has been developing informed, skilled and committed community leaders since 1994.
Caught in the Lens p. 22
Keep up with the latest Chamber happenings and see all of the great smiles that make up our membership!
CAPITOL LAND TRUST: Connecting People, Conserving Land
by Kathryn Millhorn • Photo by Shanna Paxton Photography
Mary Kniestedt, Communications Manager and Dave Winter. Executive Director, Capitol Land Trust.
Washington is known for, and defined by, it’s natural wonders. In 2025 alone, more than 40 million visitors enjoyed our state parks—up from 33 million a decade earlier— and the gorgeous scenery of mountains, volcanos, coastline, and greenspaces.
Across South Puget Sound and Chehalis Basin watersheds, Capitol Land Trust works to conserve and protect this natural beauty. Thanks to their tireless work over the last 40 years, local land and waterfronts will remain for generations to come.
Keeping Washington Green, One Nature Preserve at a Time
Mary Kniestedt, Capitol Land Trust’s Communications Manager,
explains that their work “ranges across estuaries and shorelines to forests, wetlands, and working lands that support both people and wildlife and that these places are increasingly important to protect as the region grows and changes.”
She says that while many people equate Capitol Land Trust with their visitor-welcoming nature preserves, “much of our conservation work
happens behind the scenes through habitat protection, enhancement, and long-term stewardship across the region. To date, Capitol Land Trust has protected more than 6,700 acres and nearly 20 miles of marine shoreline across Thurston, Mason, Grays Harbor, and Lewis counties.” What guests might not know, says Kniestedt, is that “our conservation work is forever. When Capitol Land Trust conserves a property,
that land is permanently protected for future generations. Conserving land isn’t a temporary project or a short-term designation. It’s a longterm commitment to protecting habitat and the ecological systems that support healthy communities and biodiversity. Once land is conserved, we continue caring for it in perpetuity.”
Working Behind the Scenes on Ecological Health
Kniestedt says that many of the lands they care for aren’t open to the public. These are properties managed to maximize habitat and ecological health.
But lately Capitol Land Trust has been intentionally investing in public access preserves which welcome visitors. “We believe that spending time in nature helps people build lasting relationships with the land,” says Kniestedt, “and those connections strengthen conservation over time. Programs at Bayshore Preserve like Second Saturdays and Salmon Experience help people deepen those relationships.”
Whether as simple as watching salmon return to a creek, hearing birds along the shoreline, or spending quiet time outdoors with family and friends, Capitol Land Trust hopes people fall in love with western Washington all over again.
Photos on pages 8-9 courtesy of Capitol Land Trust.
Conservation, Preservation, Education, and Plenty of Community Help
Capitol Land Trust employs several methods of conservation, explains Kniestedt. Some lands are donated or purchased outright by the organization, while others are protected through conservation easements that allow families to retain ownership of their property while permanently protecting its conservation values. However land is protected, Capitol Land Trust commits to long-term stewardship through monitoring, habitat enhancement, and ongoing land management.
Along the way, Capitol Land Trust collaborates with Tribes, local governments, schools, conservation organizations, and community groups. They also welcome volunteers to on-site stewardship events and encourage the public to attend community programming or just explore one of their sites.
Since there is no better classroom than the great outdoors, Capitol Land Trust is always happy to share their wealth of knowledge. They hold community presentations, guided experiences, and provide speaking engagements to civic and community groups.
Looking Ahead and Sowing the Seeds of a Strong Future
Kniestedt and her fellow Capitol Land Trust staff believe that 2026 will be an exciting year. They’re building momentum on their Connecting to the Land Campaign, continuing improvements at Bayshore Preserve near Shelton, and developing Inspiring Kids Preserve near Olympia as a new public access preserve.
Nationally accredited through the Land Trust Accreditation Committee, Capitol Land Trust works hard to build vibrant relationships for future generations. “We’re fortunate to live in a region with extraordinary natural beauty and ecological importance,” says Kniestedt. “Protecting these places today helps ensure that future generations can continue to experience the wonder, resilience, and sense of belonging that nature provides. And one of the most encouraging things we see every day is how much people care. Whether someone volunteers for the first time, brings their child to a preserve, or chooses to support conservation financially, those moments of connection help shape the future of conservation.”
To learn more about Capitol Land Trust’s work, events, or how to help, sign up for their e-newsletter The Heron at www.CapitolLandTrust.org.
They also post updates to their Facebook and Instagram pages. Whatever your favorite habitat, make time to visit a preserve soon and revel in all our state has to offer.
Photos on this page by Shanna Paxton Photography.
The Olympia Country & Golf Club
2026 is packed with festivities. We celebrate America’s 250th birthday on July 4, 2026 and Olympia Country & Golf Club’s centennial all year long.
Milestones like these are a great opportunity to reminisce, give thanks, and build towards a strong, vibrant future rooted in experience and community.
More than just 18 holes, a pro shop, and mid-course snack shack, the Olympia Country & Golf Club has long welcomed both players and their families to enjoy amazing waterfront amenities. This year, on top of their regular offerings, they’ll be celebrating the Club’s rich history while looking ahead.
Centennial Celebrations Both On and Off the Green
Membership Enrollment Director CJ Allard loves that “for 100 years, members have been steadfast in their
support of the Club and its community engagement efforts. Through the depression, Seattle's business boom, the economic downfall of 2008, and many other historical moments, the Olympia Country and Golf Club has held strong.”
That strength comes in part from a welcoming mindset. “Almost every property that markets itself as both a golf club and country club will list it in that order,” says Allard. “Most clubs cater to their golfers and provide
just enough to appease their nongolfing membership. We are in fact the Olympia Country and Golf Club, subtly indicating that we cater to our country club members as well as our golfing members.”
Which starts as you pull into the parking lot. “When you first arrive at OCGC, you will see our beautiful dock which juts out into Butler Cove where boaters, kayakers, paddleboarders, and sun bathers bask in Olympia's beautiful sunshine with Mt. Rainier as their backdrop,” Allard explains. “You'll certainly hear that familiar sound of a pickleball being strategically placed by one
of our numerous, active pickleball community members. You'll smell our amazing culinary team cooking 5-star meals for our members enjoying a meal at the Terrace on the Green while grilling up summer favorites for our pool attendees that are itching to dive back in when it opens on Memorial Day. When you are here, whether as a golfer, a social member, or someone who dabbles in all of our amenities, you're family.”
Whether For Golf or a Good Time, When You’re Here, You’re Family
The Club welcome new members with golfing and social membership options for individuals and families
alike. Allard explains that golf memberships revolve around age “as a way to encourage younger prospects to join our amazing community and establish their family roots at the Club for generations to benefit.”
Junior golfers also have access to specialized youth programming— including a three-day Summer Jam camp—and all ages can schedule personalized lessons with PGA-certified pros. Summer Jam is open to member’s children and grandchildren aged 5-13. Camp comes with lessons, games, giveaways, and plenty of outdoor fun in the sun.
For those preferring non-player options, social memberships include unlimited use of the pickleball facilities, swimming pool, fitness center, practice facilities, clubhouse, Terrace on the Green restaurant, dock, and social calendar. CJ is happy to answer any and all membership related questions or arrange a tour. Simply give him a call at 360.866.7121, x306, or email membership@olygolfclub.com.
Allard says general manager Thomas Kollasch, club administration, and the board of directors stay in constant communication about how to fortify their amenities while
planning for the future. Two of their newest hotspots are covered, lighted pickleball courts for yearround play and a sauna.
Hosting and Catering Weddings, Graduations, Birthdays, and Office Parties All Year Round
The Club also hosts weddings and events from the Rainier Room in the Legacy Building. With waterfront and mountain view spaces, their calendar fills up quickly. But a few summer 2026 dates are still available.
To learn more or reserve time for your reception, birthday,
graduation, retirement, family reunion, or office party, reach out to Jason Cebell at 360.866.7121, x201, or jasonc@olygolfclub.com.
To ask about hosting a golf-related event, contact head pro Mitch Berschauer at 360.866.7121, x102, or mitch@olygolfclub.com.
With a full events calendar of gatherings, dinners, live music, and fundraisers, there’s always something going on at the Olympia Country & Golf Club. Check out their website for activities, menus, and hours. They’re always welcoming new members to help look ahead towards the next 100 years.
miracle-ear.com/locations/lacey-wa/?sc_ cid=DGT_SEM_YOD_LOC_SEA_ Hearing Aids & Consultation
MLJ Coaching and Consulting 801-512-6204
mljcoachingandconsulting.com
Consultants–Leadership
Mud Bay Landscape Supply
360-388-0685
mudbaylandscapesupply.com
Landscape
Omni Centers
360-338-0289
omnicenters.com
Day Spas (continued on page 19)
Quality Compute LLC
360-207-4613
qualitycompute.org
Consultants - Computers & Technology
Sea Level Mobile Notary LLC
360-918-2391
sealevelmobilenotary.com
Notaries Public
Squaxin Island Tribe
360-426-9781
squaxinisland.org
Tribal Stacks Burgers
253-375-5122
Stacksburgers.com
Food Truck
Steadfast Remodeling
206-617-5756
steadfastremodelingllc.com
General Contractor
Strata Family Law
360-295-9577
stratafamilylaw.com
Attorneys & Legal Services
Tasqrr
564-999-7788
tasqrr.com
Business & Professional Services
The South Sound Reading Foundation
360-412-4499
southsoundreading.org
Non-Profit Organizations
The Westwater Kitchen & Lounge
360-800-6420
thewestwater.com
Restaurants
VanVision Eyecare Center
360-357-2544
vanvisioncare.com
Optometrists/Opticians
Vensure Employer Solutions
253-754-4260
vensure.com
Employee Benefits/Services
Veterans Vanguard Security
360-688-8749
vetsvanguard.com
Security Equipment & Service
Leadership Thurston County Celebrates Class of 2026
The Thurston County Chamber and Leadership Thurston County (LTC) invite the community to celebrate the graduation of the Leadership Thurston County Class of 2026 on Wednesday, June 10, 2026, at the Norman Worthington Center at Saint Martin’s University. The annual graduation ceremony recognizes a new class of community leaders who have completed Leadership Thurston County’s immersive 10-month civic leadership program.
Since its founding, Leadership Thurston County has helped develop informed, connected, and engaged leaders prepared to strengthen communities across the South Sound. Throughout the program year,
participants build relationships, explore regional challenges and opportunities, and gain firsthand experience with the people and organizations shaping Thurston County’s future.
Over the course of the program, class members met with local, regional, and statewide leaders while exploring topics including economic development, environmental stewardship, education, health and human services, and civic engagement. Participants also took part in site visits at businesses, schools, public agencies, and nonprofit organizations to deepen their understanding of the systems and partnerships that support a thriving community.
What: Leadership Thurston County Graduation – Class of 2026
GRADUATION SPONSOR
Where: Norman Worthington Center, Saint Martin’s University, 5300 Pacific Ave SE, Lacey, WA 98503
When: Wednesday, June 10, 2026 (11:15 am – Doors Open, 11:30 am – Social & Lunch, 12:00 pm – Program Begins) Thank you to our Presenting Sponsor Olympic Rental & Landlord Services.
Class of 2026 Graduates
Leadership Thurston County is a program of the Thurston County Chamber Foundation and has been developing informed, skilled and committed community leaders since 1994. For more information, visit leadthurstoncounty.com.
Amanda Ruston HDR Engineering, Inc.
Ben Miller-Todd Thurston County
Blake Lord KPFF Consulting Engineers
Carla Carter Thurston County Sheriff's Office
Catherine Peacher Sensory Tool House
Colin Meenk Bean, Gentry, Wheeler & Peternell
Damien Egan Port of Olympia
Dawn Carvalho City of Olympia
Dena Withrow Intercity Transit
Dylan White South Puget Sound Community College
Gretchen Maliska North Thurston Public Schools, Shelton School District
Heather Ocho O Bee Credit Union
Heather Villalobos Thurston County District Court
Janelle Cromwell Rockefeller Global Family Office
Jeanne Colvin Office of the Governor
Jeff Barehand Sky Bear Media
Joan Lutz City of Olympia
John Grossman Saint Martin's University
Julia Chavez Saint Martin's University
Kat Santana The Moore Wright Group
Katie Lorz HGCM Therapy
Kim Ramuno City of Olympia
Kristina Hancock Timberland Regional Library
Kristine Rompa Puget Sound Energy
LeAnne Rangel Olympia Fire Department
Linsey Lee WSECU
Luis Apolaya Torres The Evergreen State College
Matthew Ames City of Tumwater
Mike Pond MultiCare Capital Medical Center
Noe Hinojosa Thurston County Food Bank
Patrick Holm SCJ Alliance
Rosemary Fitzgerald Thurston County Prosecuting Attorney
Sarah Ketter Senior Helpers
Sarah Tracy Sound Specialty Pharmacy, Family Vitality, NTPS
Scott Gunther Olympia Federal Savings
Siri Nelson LOTT Clean Water Alliance
Spencer Griffin Cap City Law PS
Taylor Rome Thurston County
Vanessa Arita Reyes WA Employment Security Department
Vincent McGowan City of Lacey
Wendy Steffensen LOTT Clean Water Alliance
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.
