Your trusted source for local Olympia, WA news, updated daily with the most important stories from your community.
Concerns are rising among Washington lawmakers regarding federal budget cuts that threaten access to free school meals for hundreds of thousands of students statewide. The proposed changes to federal programs could exclude up to 12 million students nationwide, including 475,000 in Washington. Despite these challenges, Governor Bob Ferguson is advocating for the expansion of universal free school meals.
Alauna Carstens, a junior at The Evergreen State College, has been nominated for the NAIA National Women’s Indoor Track Athlete of the Year by the U.S. Track & Field and Cross Country Coaches Association. This recognition follows her impressive performance at the 2025 NAIA Indoor Track and Field Championships, where she earned All-America honors for the first time. Carstens also set school records in three events during the season, demonstrating her exceptional athletic capabilities.
Whiplash injuries, prevalent in the U.S., can lead to chronic pain and instability if not treated promptly, as explained by Drs. George and Stefanie Olar from 360 Chiropractic in Lacey. The article delves into the causes, symptoms, and long-term consequences of whiplash, emphasizing the importance of early intervention and proper care.
The Kindness Rocks Project, initiated by Megan Murphy, promotes community engagement through the painting and hiding of inspirational rocks, exemplified by the local Lacey Rocks group in Washington. With over 5,000 members, participants spread joy and connect with nature while practicing art therapy, making it an inclusive family-friendly activity. The project emphasizes kindness, creativity, and environmental stewardship, inviting everyone to join in the fun.
North Thurston High School's girls basketball team secured third place at the state tournament, defeating the defending champions, Garfield, 77-49. Despite a narrow loss to Lakeside in the semifinals, head coach Jackie Meyer praised the team's effort and growth throughout the season, highlighting key players and a successful 27-game winning streak.
Penrose & Associates Physical Therapy has successfully treated Lynn Ham's unexpected vertigo with a comprehensive exercise regimen, significantly improving her daily life. The program, tailored to her needs, includes eye, balance, and head positioning exercises, enabling her to engage fully in everyday activities again.
The Lacey South Sound Chamber Forum Luncheon, held at Indian Summer Golf & Country Club on March 5, 2025, offers local business professionals an opportunity to network and learn from educational speakers. With a cost of $25 for pre-registration and $30 at the door, this monthly event fosters community engagement and professional development.
The Maritime Washington National Heritage Area, established in 2019, seeks to preserve and celebrate Washington's maritime history, covering 3,000 miles of shoreline from the Canadian border to Grays Harbor. Through local partnerships and advocacy, the organization supports various heritage projects, such as the Tugboat Parthia preservation and grants for maritime initiatives. Carson Meacham from the Washington Trust for Historic Preservation emphasizes the importance of community involvement in preserving this rich maritime legacy.
Mason Health and the Mason Health Foundation are offering scholarships for Mason County high school graduates and healthcare employees to support their education in health care fields. The scholarships include a full-ride nursing scholarship for Shelton High School Health Sciences Academy students and various opportunities for Mason Health employees and residents. Applications are open now, with deadlines approaching in April 2025.
Registration is now open for the Expanding Your Horizons STEAM Conference, aimed at middle school women, trans, and non-binary youth in Western Washington. This empowering event, scheduled for March 15, 2025, will feature hands-on workshops, keynote speakers, and opportunities to explore various STEAM fields in an inclusive environment. Participants will gain valuable insights and connect with peers while fostering their interests in science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics.