Friday, August 8th, 2025

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Good morning, Olympia. Here's your local news at a glance for Friday, the 8th of August.
COMMUNITY NEWS
- ➤ Nonprofits in Lewis, Mason and Thurston counties can now apply for Community Grants—open until August 29—that offer awards from $1,500 to $7,500 to support local programs. They can also register for Give Local 2025, the online giving campaign scheduled from November 10 to 21. ThurstonTalk
CRIME NEWS
- ➤ Yesterday, rescuers removed 67 abused animals from a Thurston County property during a disturbing cruelty case and brought them to a sanctuary in Roy where they are now recovering. FOX13
EDUCATION NEWS
- ➤ The Evergreen State College has expanded its prison education program at Stafford Creek Corrections Center—federal financial aid now lets incarcerated students apply for Pell Grants to enroll in a BA pathway, and up to 25 new students will start in Fall quarter. ThurstonTalk
ENVIRONMENT NEWS
- ➤ Thurston County is recruiting volunteers for its Master Recycler Composter program, which will offer hands-on training in recycling, composting, and waste reduction in partnership with Washington State University Extension and County Public Works. The training includes Friday classes from October 17 through March 20 and requires applications by September 19 at 5 p.m.—volunteers must be 18 or older and live, work, or run a business in Thurston County. ThurstonTalk
- ➤ At a public hearing today, residents and local groups offered ideas to boost the city’s Climate Element by adding more green spaces, setting a tree canopy target, & tracking pollution from buildings and vehicles. The Planning Commission approved the draft and will send it to the city council for further review. JOLT
SHOP NEWS
- ➤ TODAY'S SPONSOR Shop on Amazon for the car tech upgrades you need ahead of your next road trip and for better, safer driving. We love this suction cup phone mount to keep navigation instructions in your eyeline. The Buy
Supporting our sponsors is one of the best ways to support Daily Olympia.
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Dream Create: A Half-Day Workshop
10 AM – 2 PM — Kenneydell Park — Workshop fee applies — Engage in creating a dream art journal amidst nature in Olympia, WA.
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Scherler Sundays: Free Concert Series
3-7 p.m. — Carnegie Library — Free entry — Enjoy a fantastic lineup of over 30 independent bands in a family-friendly, outdoor setting.
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Fish, Forage, Fire!
9 a.m. – 4 p.m. — Squaxin Park — Cost not specified — Dive into fishing, archery, and foraging skills at this outdoor camp.
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Billy Nation - A Tribute to Billy Joel
7:30-9:00 p.m. — Washington Center for the Performing Arts — Ticket prices vary — Celebrate the hits of Billy Joel with a high-energy tribute concert that gets the audience singing along.
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Family Retreat Washington
Aug 18-22 — Black Lake Bible Camp and Retreat Center — $375 per person — A Christ-centered retreat designed for families living with disabilities, offering fun and accessible activities.
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Artvana Paint & Sip at Cup of Swords Tavern
6-8:30 p.m. — Cup of Swords Tavern — 21+ only — Unleash your creativity while painting guided by a local artist and enjoy a variety of drinks.
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South Sound Block Party 2025
5 PM – 6 AM — Port of Olympia — Ticket required — Celebrate the vibrant musical arts with exciting performances at the South Sound Block Party.
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South Sound Block Party 2025
Aug 22–23 — The Port of Olympia — Get tickets now — Experience a vibrant two-day music festival along the beautiful shores of the Puget Sound with a diverse lineup.
No new real estate listings today. You can submit one here.
No new job posts today. You can submit one here.
No new community announcements today. You can submit one here.

Upgrade Your Ride: Must-Have Car Tech for Safer, Smarter Road Trips
Before you hit the road, make sure your car is equipped with the latest tech to keep your drive smoother, safer, and more connected. Amazon has all the essentials you need for your next road trip or daily commute.
Top picks include a suction cup phone mount that keeps navigation in clear view, a wireless CarPlay adapter for seamless Bluetooth connectivity, and a front-and-rear dash cam that captures every moment — especially in the event of an accident.
These smart, affordable upgrades not only improve convenience but also add an extra layer of safety and peace of mind while you're behind the wheel. Whether you're driving across the country or just around town, now’s the perfect time to enhance your car with these must-have tech tools.
Supporting our sponsors is one of the best ways to support Daily Olympia.
TODAY'S FOOD FOR THOUGHT
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