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Posted in News,Press Releases by Mathias Eichler on June 18, 2009
Downtown Olympia Hosts Community Picnic

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Taking its cue from the cultural centers of Europe, downtown Olympia is celebrating its 150th birthday with a neighborhood block party and community celebration called “A Table for Olympia” Friday, July 10.

Everyone is invited to bring picnic food to share, plates, and silverware to Washington Street between 4th and State avenues 5 P.M. to 9 P.M. The block will be closed off to vehicular traffic. “Table” organizers, who are aiming for a waste-free event, will provide tables and chairs, artesian water, and music and entertainment. Oh, and there will be cake! In return they’re asking those who attend to bring non-perishable donations for the Thurston County Food Bank.

“Summer picnics like this are very popular in European urban centers,” said event organizer and einmaleins owner Mathias Eichler, “as they once were in communities across America. Ultimately, they serve no purpose except to bring families and friends together in a convivial atmosphere. I believe the American term for it is, ‘just for fun.’”

“Table “ expenses have been offset by contributions from Thurston County Food Bank, einmaleins, Mixx 96.1 KXXO, H2Olympia, PBIA, ODA, AADO, and Olympia City Council candidates Stephen Buxbaum, Joe Hyer, Jeff Kingsbury, Joan Machlis, Karen Rogers, Tony Sermonti, Amy Tousley, and Karen Veldheer.

The event is expected to be attended by most of the Olympia City Council candidates, but event organizers promise no speeches, just some good music, food and fun!

More information on “A Table for Olympia” can be found at www.everydayolympia.com/table

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Below are some pictures of “A Table” event in Brussels, Belgium from earlier this year:

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  • 7:00p.m.: Congratulations
    Jordan Ingram, Abigail Ingram, and Chad Austinson make up this new Olympia band. Influenced by bands like Sigur Ros and Radiohead they have created a sound that is rare, memorable, and emotive. Listening to a few songs can make you smile, cry, and remember what its like to be passionate about life. Their talent speaks for itself, check them out at www.myspace.com/congratulationssss . We are all in for a very special treat.

    6:00p.m.: The Olympia Free Choir
    Organized and championed by Kimya Dawson, they are an ensemble of diverse and inspiring Olympians of many ages that give time to join with each other and sing. They deliver songs by artists like Cat Stevens and Kimya Dawson in a relaxed harmony that somehow makes you feel spiritually whole. Witness the power of community through song.

    5:00p.m.: Don't Tell Sophie
    Brandt Dettling, Orlando Franklin, Reuben Dettling, and Jay Clancy are already well on their way. With a combined age that is less than any single one of my grandparents, they are salty professional musicians who have been around the block twice and left an impression on many thousands nationwide. Playing South by Southwest was just the start of this year for these guys who rock a sexy sound that leaves you feeling sort of regretful. All the reason you need to not be late to the party.

    Make sure everyone you know gets an invitation to see these performances. Don't cheat them of this experience.
  • Confirmed to play at A Table for Olympia is:
    http://congratulationsmusic.com brilliant sounds, can't wait!
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