Ladies and gentlemen, we have a tie! Two Oly originals swept this category, and rightfully so. Congratulations Archibald Sisters and Dumpster Values for being named Best Local Business(es) in Olympia.

First, let's give props to Archibald Sisters. With its home in downtown Olympia since 1975, this local favorite continues to charm Olympians with such delightful merchandise as electric guitar-shaped cheese graters (so you can "shred" your cheese), boxing Jesus puppets (to impress your friends) and pot leaf-shaped cookie cutters (for your "baked" goods).

Another element of the Archibald Sisters appeal is the super-fantastic-smelling blending bar where they perfect the art of combining essential oils, thus creating the best lotions, perfumes and beauty products ever - with names of your favorite things, like Oly Rain and Sex on the Beach. They even concoct personal blends.

What is Archibald employee Ashley Delancy's favorite thing about the store? "Definitely the card selection," she says with a laugh.

And if you've ever needed just the right card for an occasion, then you know Delancy is right; whether it's dirty, schmoozy, smart ass or sweet, Archie's will deliver.

Some may remember Dumpster Values from when it was that cheeky little clothing rack shack tucked off Washington Street, where a selection of records took up a corner in a small sea of clothing, and upstairs doubled as an art gallery, secret dance party spot and indie venue.

Now, in its 16th year, with a big storefront, a great purchasing program for clothing exchange and a vintage chic aesthetic, Dumpster Values could rival the likes of Seattle's Red Door. But, alas, with its upstairs DIY craft/print space, plus two adjoining record stores and a bicycle shop, Dumpster Values trumps all others. Clothing is often donated to the needy and they also have a one dollar bin, with proceeds going to books for prisoners.

So move over blue-vested employees of that other value store; the homemade clothing-, dated sweater- and obscure band T-shirt-wearing employees at Dumpster Values take the applause for creating a magnificent space where you can be eco-friendly, fashionable and a cheap bastard, all in one central location.

When asked why she thinks Olympia voted for Dumpster Values, employee Sarah Adams matter-of-factly states, "We defy capitalism by creating a community space and by supporting several non-profits, and that really resonates with the community."

[Archibald Sisters, 406 Capitol Way S., Olympia, 360.705.3772[

[Dumpster Values, 302 Fourth Ave. E., Olympia, 360.943.2707.]