Good morning, Olympia.

Six senior citizens sat in lawn chairs outside the Thurston County Food Bank’s Food Pantry on Thurston Ave NE in downtown Olympia and expressed worries about a food shortage as federal cuts reduce funds that help buy local food.

Senior Director Judy Jones said the bank, which serves about 1,000 families per week, is creating contingency plans — seeking new funding and resources to meet rising needs.

Thurston County celebrates Earth Day today as it hosts a main event at Woodland Creek Community Park from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. Thurston County and the City of Lacey also will lead student cleanups at five parks, a statewide coastal debris removal, and a Bicycle Community Challenge with a Market Ride to the Olympia Farmers Market.

On April 16, Olympia’s Community Livability and Public Safety Committee reviewed a year-long wayfinding project that presented three design concepts for city signage and three proposals for gateway markers.

The committee approved a three-dimensional wayfinding concept—highlighting local natural and cultural elements—and recommended further review of gateway signage placement before the proposals go to the city council.

Intercity Transit invites public comment on its draft Transportation Improvement Program for projects from 2026 to 2029, with comments accepted until May 21 and a public hearing set for 5:30 p.m. on May 21 at its administrative office (510 Pattison Street SE, Olympia).

Narcotics Anonymous Weekly Meeting

8:00 PM — 2700 Evergreen Parkway NW — Free — Attend a supportive gathering focused on recovery and overcoming drug addiction.

Thurston County Master Gardener Foundation 2025 Plant Sale

4-8 p.m. — Nursery at 530 Alta St SW — Free entry — Explore a variety of beautiful plants cultivated by local Master Gardeners.

Comedy Underground Featuring Rodger Lizaola

7:30-9:30 p.m. — Washington Center for the Performing Arts — $36 Reserved Table, $28 General Admission — Enjoy a night of laughs with a talented comedian known for his high-profile achievements in comedy.

Encanto Sing Along Experience

7:00-8:30 p.m. — Washington Center for the Performing Arts — $12 Adult, $10 Youth — Sing along to your favorite Encanto songs while enjoying the movie on the big screen.

Unity and Diversity Festival

7 PM – 12 AM — Heritage Park, Olympia, WA — Free entry — Celebrate cultural diversity with lively entertainment and engaging booths for all backgrounds.

JBF Consignment Sale in Olympia

10 AM – 12 AM — Capital Mall — Check website for cost — Find deals on children's and maternity items at this popular consignment sale.

Super Sitters Certificate Course

9 AM – 2 PM — The Olympia Center — Registration required — Earn your Super Sitters Certificate while learning essential babysitting skills and leadership.

Prairie Appreciation Day

7 AM – 12 PM — Glacial Heritage Preserve — Free entry — Explore the prairie ecosystem through engaging activities and expert-led bird walks.

Solarize Thurston Workshop

6:30-8:00 p.m. — Olympia Timberland Library — Free entry — Discover solar energy options and get answers from local experts.

Caitlin Jemma Live

7-11 p.m. — Cryptatropa Bar — $10 cover — Experience heartfelt country music from a small-town girl with a big sound.