KMAS Radio

Jeff Slakey interviews Joe Alessi at the Timberland Regional Library's pop-up location on Harstine Island. Joe discusses the significance of the pop-up library for rural communities, offering access to books and resources closer to home. He describes the process of selecting library materials based on community feedback and introduces innovative lending options like the "library of things." The interview highlights Joe's passion for bringing books to rural areas and the positive reception of the Anywhere Library initiative.

Mason County Search and Rescue is a dedicated 501c3 organization that helps people in their time of need. Jeff talked with some of their volunteers who all undergo extensive training and put in countless hours to assist in search and rescue missions. Despite being donor-funded and volunteer-driven, they collaborate with various agencies and organizations to provide specialized assistance, such as high-angle rescue or water rescue. They're gearing up for the premiere of a documentary, "Where the Rope Ends," which sheds light on the challenges and dedication of search and rescue teams.

Shelton City Manager Mark Ziegler discussed the recent resignation of Council Member Joe Schmit and the process for filling the vacant seat. Ziegler thanked Schmit for his strategic thinking and dedication to the community. He emphasized the importance of finding a new council member with a passion for Shelton and the ability to learn on the job. Ziegler also highlighted ongoing projects and the council's role in policy development and goal-setting for the city. The application deadline for the vacant seat is May 3rd, and the council will conduct interviews on May 14th, with the final decision made by majority vote. The new council member will serve until the November 2025 election.

Executive Director Cheryl Heywood from the Timberland Regional Library System talks with Jeff Slakey in front of the SS Jolly Reader, a 26-foot structure at the Shelton Timberland Library aimed at creating a youth area for reading and socializing. Cheryl highlights the importance of providing safe spaces for children and families, especially after the pandemic. The conversation extends to the Anywhere Library initiative, mobile services reaching smaller communities, and the recent expansion of library spaces and services. Cheryl emphasizes the community impact of these initiatives and the cost-effective approach taken in creating engaging spaces like the SS Jolly Reader. Other innovative initiatives at the Timberland Regional Library System include introducing a gadget library with various tools available for borrowing. Cheryl emphasizes the library's role as a community hub, offering diverse services such as blood pressure monitoring kits, e-books, e-audiobooks, and e-magazines through platforms like Libby.

Curtis and Loretta, performers for the St. Germain's Tall Timbers Concert Series, discuss their upcoming show on April 13th. They reflect on their extensive touring experience as folk musicians, sharing anecdotes about their meeting in Santa Cruz and their subsequent musical journey spanning 47 years. They discuss their latest record, "Lift the World," inspired by reflections during the pandemic, and their approach to crafting setlists for their performances, which range from intimate venues to larger settings. The duo also touches upon their accolades, grants received, and memorable moments in their career, including a touching story about a kidney donation. They express gratitude to community radio stations for their support and discuss their journey from humble beginnings to becoming full-time musicians. The address for St. Germain's in Hoodsport is 21 N. Mt. Washington Dr., Hoodsport, WA.

The United Way of Mason County Spring Dessert and Gift Auction is coming up on May 10th from Noon - 2 PM at the Shelton Civic Center on Cota St. Executive Director Ted Jackson, Board President Dan Teuteberg, and VP Amber Trail highlight the event's purpose of raising funds for projects in the community. They emphasize the importance of community support and details about the auction, including location and donation procedures. Additionally, they reflect on United Way's role in providing essential assistance to individuals and families, especially during challenging times like the COVID-19 pandemic. If you'd like to donate to the auction, the United Way of Mason County office is 790 E Johns Prairie Rd in Shelton, the phone number is (360) 426-4999, and their website is unitedwaymason.org

Larry Murante, a singer-songwriter with a diverse musical background, discusses his upcoming Tall Timbers performance at St. Germain's in Hoodsport on Saturday, March 23rd. He shares insights into his musical journey, influenced by iconic artists like James Taylor, and his upbringing near the Martin Guitar factory. Larry also talks about his touring, involvement in a James Taylor Tribute Band, "Taylor Made," and his approach to crafting sets tailored to different venues and audiences. Throughout the conversation, he reflects on his love for music and the connections it fosters, highlighting notable achievements such as winning the John Lennon Songwriting Contest.https://larrymurante.com/https://taylormadetribute.com/https://www.facebook.com/TallTimbersConcerts/

Kim Morris talks about the youth talent show auditions organized by the Armstrong Community Outreach Foundation. Auditions will take place at Faith Lutheran at 1212 Connection Street in Shelton on Friday, March 22, from 4 to 7. Those involved will participate in the Candyland Youth Festival on April 20 at the South Mason Youth Soccer Fields on Johns Prarie Road. The event aims to celebrate youth creativity, offering opportunities for various talents and showcasing arts and crafts by young vendors. https://www.facebook.com/events/1391946534766104https://www.armstrong-foundation.org/

A conversation with Kamie Sawtell, a Re/MAX agent in Shelton, discussing the recent news about the traditional 6% commission possibly being eliminated after a settlement was reached between the National Association of Realtors and groups of home sellers. Kamie explains the potential impact and reasons behind this change, emphasizing the need for transparency in commission structures. She highlights the shift towards clearer communication about how agents are paid and the implications for buyers and sellers. Kamie also talks about the role of listing agents in promoting properties and the challenges and misconceptions surrounding the real estate industry.

Karen Hilburn, Founder of the Karen Hilburn Cancer Fund, discusses the upcoming Denim and Diamonds Dinner Auction, marking the fund's 20th year in operation. Karen highlights the fund's impact, assisting over 600 women with mammograms and other medical needs. She also emphasizes the community's support and invites participation in the event, featuring a silent and live auction and talks about how the fundraising aids cancer patients. Additionally, she acknowledges the importance of supporting both men and women facing cancer diagnoses. The event, scheduled for April 14th, is at the Alderbrook Resort and Spa.Ticket Information - https://denimanddiamonds.maxgiving.events/Karen Hilburn Cancer Fund Information - https://www.karenhilburncancerfund.org/

The next Community Comedy Open Mic night is Tuesday, March 19th at the El Sarape Cantina in downtown Shelton, organized by Claudia Suastegui. Despite not considering herself a comedian...Claudia's passion for storytelling led her to create a supportive environment for anyone wanting to share their stories through stand-up comedy. The event welcomes both seasoned comedians and amateurs, with a positive atmosphere where people can step out of their comfort zones and connect with others. These are scheduled for the third Tuesday of each month, providing an opportunity for individuals to try their hand with comedy in a welcoming setting.

Sunday marks St. Patrick's Day, coinciding with the St. Paddy's Day Pub Crawl, offering an opportunity to eat, drink, and be Irish. Jeff Slakey talks with Nikki Boad about the event, which starts at Wilde Irish and entails a swag bag pick-up followed by a self-paced crawl across ten other establishments in Shelton. Transportation is available, with music performances throughout the day. Attendees can anticipate surprises, such as special drinks, and don't forget your green!

State Senator Drew McEwen discusses the recently concluded legislative session, expressing dissatisfaction with House Bill 1589 related to Puget Sound Energy's shift away from natural gas. He highlights issues with the bill, including expedited rate increases for consumers before new generating systems come online. McEwen criticizes the rushed policy shift, emphasizing the potential economic impact on businesses and the unpreparedness of the electrical grid. He also discusses successful initiatives, such as restoring law enforcement's ability to pursue suspects, and highlights budget achievements, including funding for the Belfair bypass and addressing safety issues on Highway 101.

A conversation discussing Shelton Junior Programs, a nonprofit organization that has been bringing live theater to local elementary students for 23 years. Jo Ewart, a member since 2008, explains that the program presents two plays each year for different grade levels, fulfilling Washington State's Arts Education requirements. The upcoming performances include "Jack and the Beanstalk" for grades 1-3 and "Frindle" for grades 4-6 at Shelton High School's Performing Arts Center. Jo mentions the adaptation of plays for young audiences, provides insights into "Frindle," and talks about the program's resilience during COVID, with performances resuming in 2023. Interested individuals can learn more on their website, sheltonjuniorprograms.com

FC Olympia's owner, Ryan Perkins, discusses the recent merger with Lacey Lights, forming another semi-pro soccer team under FC Olympia. The collaboration aims to provide opportunities for local athletes and enhance the soccer community in Thurston County. Additionally, Perkins announces season tickets for the upcoming USL league at an affordable price of $24, aiming to surpass 500 sales, through March. The club also plans a gala fundraiser featuring guest speakers like Stephanie Cox and auction items, including a signed jersey by the entire US men's soccer team. Notable signings for the USLW season include McKenna Martinez and Shu Ohba, while Jason Dunn joins as the new men's head coach for USL2, bringing a wealth of experience to the team. Despite missing out on the indoor soccer league championships, FC Olympia receives recognition for their streaming quality and goalkeeper, Isaiah Damschen. Perkins emphasizes community support and invites fans to engage with the club online and at events like the gala.

Shelton High School is hosting the Bite of Reality Fair, an event organized by Peninsula Credit Union to educate high school seniors about financial responsibility. The fair utilizes an app-based simulation where students receive a job, salary, and must make budgetary decisions regarding housing, transportation, and other expenses. The program aims to prepare students for real-world financial challenges. Peninsula Credit Union, along with community volunteers, facilitates the fair and also supports financial literacy programs in middle schools. The initiative extends beyond Shelton High School, with plans for a similar fair at North Mason High School.

U.S. Congressman Derek Kilmer discusses the looming threat of a government shutdown and attributes it to some members of the House Republican Conference wanting to inject cultural issues into spending bills. Kilmer emphasizes the avoidability of a shutdown if these issues are kept separate. He also touches on the challenges of the current Congress, particularly the internal divisions among Republicans hindering legislative progress. Kilmer advocates for constructive dialogue and bipartisan cooperation and encourages constituents to engage with their representatives to voice concerns and opinions.

Representative Dan Griffey discusses the urgent issue of fentanyl in the community. He emphasizes the severity of the situation, calling it a "poison" affecting all communities, and expresses his concern about federal agencies' effectiveness in addressing the problem. Griffey proposes declaring a state of emergency to mobilize state agencies, such as the Department of Transportation and State Patrol, to combat fentanyl trafficking. He suggests convening a prosecutor summit and easing regulatory burdens to tackle the crisis effectively. The discussion highlights the need for a coordinated emergency response to address the fentanyl epidemic.Later in the conversation, Representative Griffey touches upon the growing polarization in political views and the challenges of bipartisan collaboration, particularly on issues like rent control. He expresses concerns about the impact of social media on public discourse, noting a need for more free thinking and communication. The conversation shifts to environmental policies, with Griffey criticizing the majority party's stance on banning propane and natural gas, advocating for a more gradual transition to alternative fuels like hydrogen. The representative also warns against hasty decisions in adopting new technologies, drawing parallels with past mistakes such as compact fluorescent light bulbs.

Senator Drew McEwen discusses ongoing budget discussions in the state legislature. He's particularly focused on the $3 billion surplus and concerns about the House's proposal, which includes a controversial $200 rebate tied to voting down a carbon tax initiative. Senator McEwen expresses disappointment in this approach, emphasizing his hope for its removal during the budget conference. The discussion also touches on the budget process intricacies, concerns about specific initiatives, transportation projects, and the page program encouraging youth engagement in state government.

Shelton School District Superintendent Wyeth Jessee discusses various updates in the district, emphasizing the ongoing implementation of their strategic plan focusing on literacy, college and career readiness, and safe and welcoming environments. He highlights the unique role of Choice High School, providing a family therapeutic setting with additional mental health support for students facing challenges. The school's efforts, including a full-time mental health therapist, have contributed to positive outcomes, with a focus on ninth-grade students achieving their six credits by the end of their freshman year. Additionally, a new open-doors program has successfully enrolled 19 students not in school the previous year, offering flexible support for those facing homelessness or parenting challenges. Superintendent Wyeth Jessee also discusses the importance of creating a positive learning environment, particularly focusing on literacy and efforts to engage students in reading. He touches upon the budgetary challenges, underscoring the need for increased funding for special education, as federal and state contributions cover only 40%, leaving the remaining 60% for local districts. Superintendent Jessee underscores the positive impact of inclusive environments and effective resource allocation, mentioning the support for counselors, mental health therapists, and after-school activities. Looking ahead, he mentions plans for summer school, balancing support and enrichment for students, and the ongoing recruitment of new teachers, often attracting second-career individuals to education.

Representative Travis Couture discusses the ongoing legislative session and the focus on budget allocation in the state. There is mention of a $3 billion surplus in the supplemental budget, with discussions around how to spend it strategically. Representative Couture emphasizes the importance of prioritization in budgeting, expressing concerns about spreading resources too thin and needing to fund essential areas fully. The conversation also discusses the options for utilizing the surplus, including spending on new or underfunded initiatives, putting it in a rainy-day account, or providing tax relief. Additionally, the representative highlights constituents' concerns, with property tax relief, public safety, and housing affordability being significant issues in the 35th district. Representative Couture also discusses concerns about rent control in the state, proposing alternative solutions such as providing property tax incentives to landlords who keep rents low. He argues that these measures benefit both property owners and tenants, unlike rent control, which he believes harms people, especially seniors, in the long term. Couture expresses pride in his constituents' understanding of legislative matters and hints at an upcoming House Republican budget proposal he looks forward to discussing.

Representative Dan Griffey discusses the recently released supplemental budget proposals by House Democrats and Senate Republicans. Griffey expresses concern about the $3 billion spending in the budget, emphasizing the missed opportunity to address underfunding in K-12 education and special education. He highlights specific initiatives in the 35th district, including a budget proviso for educating people on fentanyl use in libraries and a study on cancer occurrences among volunteer firefighters. Additionally, Griffey addresses issues in the state's childcare system, advocating for a more scalable and flexible approach to certification processes. The conversation also touches on public safety, with discussions on a potential joint hearing on police pursuit and the possibility of passing a crime victims bill of rights.

35th District Representative Travis Couture and Jeff Slakey continue discussing this legislative session. They delve into House Bill 2001, which grants the state Supreme Court and the governor decision power on commuting sentences for felons, focusing on recalculating sentences to potentially release individuals from prison early. The bill narrowly passed, raising concerns about the impact on victims and their families. The conversation then shifts to another topic: rent control. Representative Couture opposes capping rents at 7%, emphasizing the need for increased housing supply and removing regulations hindering construction. He argues that artificially controlling rents is a short-term solution with long-term negative consequences, highlighting the decline in rents over the past year in Washington as evidence. Representative Travis Couture discusses the challenges of finding a balance between tenants and housing suppliers, emphasizing the need for thoughtful policies. He mentions a bill by Representative Cheney that proposes incentivizing landlords to keep rents low through property tax relief. Couture points out the complexities of the housing situation, attributing high rents to broader economic issues such as inflation and high living costs. He expresses concern about the state's affordability, especially for rural communities, and highlights the impact on families unable to afford homes. The conversation ends with anticipation for upcoming bills from the Senate as the legislative session progresses.

State Senator Drew McEwen and Jeff Slakey discuss Senate Bill 5770, a property tax measure. According to Senator McEwen, the bill proposes allowing local governments to exceed the 1% property tax cap, established by voters and the legislature a decade ago, by tripling it to 3%. Moreover, the bill permits local governments to bank the unused increase for subsequent years without voter approval, potentially costing taxpayers an additional $6 billion in property taxes. Senator McEwen criticizes the proposal, highlighting the challenges of housing affordability and the need for responsible budgeting, suggesting that there is already a record surplus in state revenue. The conversation also touches on a separate bill related to small modular nuclear reactors as a potential carbon-free power source.

Jeff Slakey and Mason County Republican Chair Melissa Upson discuss the ongoing election season. The focus then shifts to the upcoming Mason County Republican County convention this weekend, with Brad Klippert running to lead OSPI as a featured speaker. Chair Melissa Upson provides insights into the convention process, detailing how delegates elected at precinct caucuses will contribute to the Mason County Republican Convention and the Washington State Republican Convention. Notably, the state convention will include an endorsement convention, an exciting development for the party. Upson also encourages individual participation, details the state convention in Spokane, and highlights the location of the Mason County Republican Party's storefront in Shelton. The speaker expresses anticipation for an exciting election year from the local to the national level, commends those running for positions, and notes Melissa Upson's role as the Mason County Republican Party chair for the current two-year term, with a reorganization planned in December 2024.

Mason County Republicans Party Chair Melissa Upson talks about the Mason County Republicans county convention this week and what the landscape looks like for 2024.

In this radio interview, Mason County Auditor Steve Duenkel discusses recent changes in the Mason County Auditor's Office, including relocating operations to create more space for ballot processing and election observers. Duenkel outlines the busy election year ahead, with five elections scheduled, including a special election in February and the March presidential primary. The conversation touches on ballot security measures, such as enhanced surveillance on drop boxes, and Duenkel emphasizes the importance of voter registration updates and signature verification in Washington's vote-by-mail system. The interview also covers the complexities of caucuses and primaries, including the involvement of both major parties in the state. Duenkel highlights transparency efforts through live streaming of ballot processing activities and drop box surveillance.

In this radio interview, 35th District Representative Travis Couture discusses legislative efforts to address concerns about littering, graffiti, and illegal dumping, highlighting the importance of instilling pride in the community. The conversation also delves into mental health issues, with Couture emphasizing the need for self-care, particularly among men, and legislative initiatives aimed at tackling the mental health crisis. The representative acknowledges the impact of economic factors on mental health and stresses the importance of preventive measures, such as workforce development in mental and behavioral health. The interview concludes with a discussion on balancing social-emotional learning in schools and the role of parents as primary educators.

In this radio interview, 35th District Representative Dan Griffey discusses the ongoing challenges in Fire District 12 in Mason County, emphasizing the two-year-long federal investigations and the resultant lack of trust in emergency services. Griffey provides updates on misleading information in the media and expresses the need for local involvement in resolving the issues. The conversation extends to legislative matters, with Griffey advocating for lifetime supervision of sexual offenders and addressing concerns about proposed changes. The discussion also touches on the societal impacts of minor offenses, illegal dumping, and accountability for law-abiding citizens. The representative concludes by expressing hope for legislative measures, such as a graffiti bill, to instill a sense of responsibility.

The Love INC. Annual Benefit Concert & Dessert Auction is coming up on February 3, at 4:30 pm. Tickets are available now and at the door. Suggested Donation $20 and will be at the Shelton Presbyterian Church located at 1430 E Shelton Springs Road. Board Member Dan Partridge talks with Jeff Slakey about the event in this conversation.

With a bond vote upcoming for the Hood Canal School District, Superintendent Lance Gibbon talked with Jeff Slakey on what it's going for, how it can help Hood Canal and SouthSide School District and more in this conversation.

Oly Town Artesians owner Ryan Perkins talks with Jeff Slakey about the final few home games of the season at "The Ice Box" at the Pavillion at Evergreen State College. Oly Town has been playing there for 10 years, and it has seen some great matches. There is a lot to look forward to for the future of Oly Town, and Ryan talks about some of the plans.

35th District Representative Dan Griffey talk about Public Safety and Housing with conversations on crime, lack of housing, efforts for mental health help.

Mary M. Knight school has a Levy vote on the Feb 13 ballot in Mason County. Superintendent Matt Mallory talks about how it would benefit the school district and the students.

Jeff Slakey talks with Mason County Sheriff Ryan Spurling about some of the crimes happening in the county, bills/initiatives going through the Legislature this session, Hood Canal Lions Polar Plunge, and more.

Washington State Senator Drew MacEwen talks about hearing initiatives signed by the citizens, specifically regarding the Climate Control Act, in this week's conversation.

35th District Representative Travis Couture talks about the response to his fentanyl bill and the Belfair Bypass in this week's conversation.

35th District Representative Dan Griffey talks about police pursuits and a sexual strangulation bill in this weeks conversation.

The other day, we got a call from someone pretending to be a Sergeant from the Mason County Sheriff's Office. It was (at first) pretty believable since the caller had bits and pieces of information that would make this sound legit. Little did the caller know that we're friendly with Sheriff Spurling, so we were able to poke some holes in the story. Other people haven't been as lucky and have been scammed out of money. MCSO does not call individuals to inform them about missing court dates and requesting payment of fines.

The 2024 Washington Legislative session kicked off recently, and KMAS has great access to the legislators in the 35th District. State Senator Drew MacEwen talks about this session's priorities, Cap & Trade, and a bill he introduced following the protest that shut down Interstate 5 for multiple hours.

The 2024 Washington Legislative session kicked off recently, and KMAS has great access to the legislators in the 35th District. Representative Travis Couture talks about fentanyl, special education and holocaust education in our first conversation of the session.

The 2024 Washington Legislative session kicked off recently, and KMAS has great access to the legislators in the 35th District. Representative Dan Griffey talks about public safety, property rights, and retail theft in this first conversation of the year.

Mason Health recently worked with Performance Excellence Northwest to ensure they are working towards the best practices possible for their patients and staff.Through the work they completed, they will be receiving the Mt. Ranier Award at an upcoming ceremony.https://www.performanceexcellencenw.org/

In this 2023 KMAS Candidate Conversation, Jeff Slakey talks with Keri Davidson who is running for Shelton School 309 - School Board Director Position No. 2.KMAS is the local radio station in Mason County Washington.

In this 2023 KMAS Candidate Conversation, Jeff Slakey talks with Karla Knudsen-Johnston who is running for, Shelton School 309 - School Board Director District No. 1.KMAS is the local radio station in Mason County, Washington.

Jeff Slakey talks with Mason County Commissioner Kevin Shutty, Executive Director of the Port of Shelton, Wendy Smith, and Justin Holzgrove, Telecommunications & Community Relations Manager about the application Mason County has submitted for the Federal RECOMPETE ACT dollars. https://kilmer.house.gov/recompete-actKMAS is the local radio station in Mason County Washington.

Jeff Slakey talks with Rev. Doug Peterson whose been at Faith Lutheran Church in Shelton for the last five years. 1212 Connection Street, Shelton, WA 98548.KMAS is the local radio station in Mason County Washington.

Jeff Slakey talked with Dawn Myers and Kara Brotche about this year's version of the Haunted Halloween Trail, this time at the Mason County Recreation Area.https://www.facebook.com/events/325183079997864KMAS is the local radio station in Mason County Washington.

Jeff Slakey talks with Judge Cadine Ferguson-Brown, who is running to retain her position on the Mason County Superior Court in this 2023 Candidate Conversation.KMAS is the local radio station in Mason County, Washington.

Jeff Slakey talks with Tara Miller about the Belfair Community Clubhouse, 23554 WA 3 Suite 1, Belfair, WA 98528. KMAS is the local radio station in Mason County Washington.