Get the inside scoop on Sound to Sea – Working Together to Build Resilient Coastal Communities, a hands-on workshop coming to the newly renamed Sacred Waters Center for Restoration & Retreat (formerly Harmony Hill) on June 5, 2025. Host Jeff Slakey sits down with Mason County WSU Extension’s Tessa Halloran and Kayla Wells-Yoakum to explore why coastal resilience isn’t just an ocean-front issue—it’s vital for every homeowner along Hood Canal and Puget Sound.

They unpack how the Coastal Hazards Organizational Resilience Team (COHORT)—a partnership between WSU Extension, Washington Sea Grant, Emergency Management, and the Department of Ecology—uses Climate Commitment Act funding to protect shoreline communities. Hear details on slope-stabilizing native plants, biochar for water retention, septic and water-quality hacks, and simple lawn-and-garden habits that deliver long-term environmental payoffs.

Whether you live on Highway 106 or visit the canal for recreation, you’ll learn practical steps to safeguard property, shellfish beds, and future generations. Pre-registration is encouraged by May 28.

Join KMAS host Jeff Slakey for an upbeat, behind-the-scenes look at the 81st annual Mason County Forest Festival (May 29 – June 1, 2025). Festival president Amy Cooper breaks down the bonus-weekend carnival, free Friday Family Fun Night, wildfire-prevention displays, and Saturday’s packed schedule—from the Goldsboro Creek Run to the nighttime fireworks. Parade chair Robin Redman reveals what to expect from the Paul Bunyan Grand Parade—80+ entries, all-city marching bands, visiting floats, and full live coverage on KMAS & Mason Web TV. Logging-show producer Mick Sprouffske cranks up the excitement with new Pacific Northwest championship events: springboard chop, hot-saw, women’s single-buck, plus a dual obstacle-pole race at Loop Field. Whether you’re a local, a tourist, or just love small-town celebrations, this episode is your audio guide to four days of rides, music, food, fireworks, car shows, and family-friendly fun in Shelton, Washington. 

The Day of Champions is back! On May 29th, North Mason High School will host this heartwarming track and field event for special needs students across Mason County. With 140 participants, 100 volunteers, and loads of joy (plus rubber chickens), this Kiwanis-led event is one you won’t want to miss.

Shelton School District Superintendent Wyeth Jessee joins Jeff Slakey for a wide-ranging conversation about early literacy success, the impacts of state budget shortfalls, and how local levy dollars keep essential student services running. From the challenges of defining “basic education” to celebrating over 50 students attending Evergreen State for free, this interview dives deep into the heart of Shelton’s public schools and their role in shaping the community’s future.

In this episode of Sheriff’s Sitdown, Jeff Slakey catches up with Sheriff Ryan Spurling at the Oyster Bank in Hoodsport. They cover everything from the power of community engagement in law enforcement to homelessness challenges, the impact of Shelton’s new Flock camera system, and the importance of youth structure and service through NJROTC. Brought to you by Our Community Credit Union.

 #MasonCounty #SheriffsSitdown #PublicSafety #HoodsportWA #CommunityPolicing #FlockCameras #HomelessnessCrisis #NJROTC #OysterBank #KMAS #SheltonWA #LawEnforcement #OurCommunityCreditUnion

On this episode, Jeff Slakey talks with Tessa Halloran from the WSU Extension Office about the upcoming “Be Septic Smart” workshop happening May 15th in Shelton. They dive into why understanding your septic system is crucial for homeowners—especially those near waterways or with vacation rentals. From landscaping tips to warning signs and maintenance myths, this episode is full of helpful info to keep your system running right and our environment safe.

https://extension.wsu.edu/mason/event/2025-be-septic-smart-workshops/

#SepticSmart #MasonCounty #WSUExtension #WaterQuality #HomeMaintenance #PNWLiving #SheltonWA #EcoFriendlyLiving #PublicHealth #SoundLiving #PugetSoundProtection #PodcastInterview

We’re back with Amber Anderson from South Mason Fire & Rescue to talk about one of Mason County’s favorite traditions—the Mother’s Day Pancake Breakfast! Happening this Saturday, May 10th from 9:30 AM to noon at Fire Station 4 on Arcadia Road, it’s more than just pancakes and mock mimosas. We dive into how this event supports vital community programs, from school supply drives to smoke alarm installations and the growing Mobile Integrated Health program that’s making waves nationwide.

Plus, find out how South Mason is working behind the scenes to help residents age safely at home, reduce emergency calls, and stay connected to the community they serve.

Links:
📍 Pancake Breakfast info: southmasonfire.org
📘 Follow: South Mason Fire & Rescue Firefighter Association on Facebook

 #MothersDayBreakfast #SouthMasonFire #CommunityFirst #MasonCountyWA #FirefighterFundraiser #WildfireReady #PancakesForACause #MobileIntegratedHealth #PublicSafety #KMASradio

 Fire season is coming fast, and Mason County is gearing up. In this episode, Jeff Slakey chats with South Mason Fire PIO Amber Anderson about the county-wide Wildfire-Ready Neighbors Fair happening Saturday, May 3, 11 a.m. – 2 p.m. in the Shelton Civic Center parking lot (525 W. Cota St.). Hear how Central Mason Fire, South Mason Fire, DNR, Squaxin Island Tribe, Mason Conservation District, the Red Cross, and more are coming together to offer free home-hardening assessments, live demos, and kid-friendly fun—yes, Smokey Bear will be there! Discover simple tweaks that can slow a fast-moving blaze and why early prep matters when 4–9 million acres burn nationwide each year. Grab lunch at the Farmers Market next door and leave wildfire-ready. 

#WildfireReadyNeighbors #MasonCounty #SheltonWA #FireSafety #KMAS #CommunityPreparedness #SouthMasonFire #CentralMasonFire #DNR #SmokeyBear 

Washington State Senator Drew MacEwen joins Jeff Slakey to unpack the just-completed 2025 legislative session. MacEwen shares his candid take on what he calls one of the most frustrating sessions he's experienced—highlighting $10 billion in new taxes, rising fees, and limited bipartisan cooperation. He discusses concerns over the budget's sustainability, impacts on working-class families, and potential consequences of rent cap legislation in the 35th District. From gas taxes to property tax shifts, Drew outlines what local residents can expect—and where he hopes the governor might still intervene.

🎤 Plus, hear a preview of the upcoming Legislative Wrap-Up hosted by Mason County EDC on May 14th.

#WALeg #MasonCounty #TaxPolicy #35thDistrict #DrewMacEwen #WashingtonStatePolitics #RentCap  #LegislativeSession #PublicPolicy #WAStateSenate #KMASradio #JeffSlakey 

Mark your calendars for June 21st and 22nd at South Sound Stadium — that’s North Thurston High School in Lacey — where teams from across Thurston and Mason counties will gather for this powerful 22-hour event.

Mason County is still proudly represented with teams like Boz Brigade, led by Deb Hill and Vicki Gonzalez, honoring loved ones lost and those still fighting.

The event kicks off Saturday at noon with opening ceremonies and the inspiring Survivor Lap, followed later by the emotional Luminaria Ceremony — a candlelit tribute circling the track in memory and in hope.

Ahead of the big weekend, you can show your support at these upcoming fundraisers:

• Friday, April 25 – Spaghetti Feed & Dessert Auction at the Elma Eagles FOE, starting at 5 PM.
• Wednesday, May 21 – Bowling Night Fundraiser at Elma Lanes from 5:30 to 7:30 PM with food, fun, and a silent auction.

And if you’d like to donate, you can drop off checks at Ascend Roofing in Shelton or head online to RelayforLifeofThurston.org.

Forty years of Relay. Millions raised. Countless lives changed — and we’re still walking for more.