Good morning, Olympia.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Artvana Painting Class

6:00-8:30 p.m. — Cup of Swords Tavern — $33-$45 — Unwind and get creative with a fun paint night experience perfect for all skill levels.

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.

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.

Wall-E Paint-n-Sip Class

6:30-8:30 p.m. — Insert Coin Olympia — All materials included — Create art inspired by beloved robots Wall-E and Eve while enjoying your favorite drinks.

Coyote Island Live Performance

7:30-11 p.m. — Wild Child — $17.06 — Experience the electric sound of Coyote Island blending folk and psychedelic indie vibes.