2024 Mason County Forest Festival

80TH ANNUAL MASON COUNTY FOREST FESTIVA L 2024 SUPPORTERS

FRIENDS OF THE FOREST

AAA Septic

Black Star Graphics

Boy Scout Troop 9110

Bowman Financial Group

Centennial Guild: Mason General

Hospital Foundation

City of Shelton

Coronation Judges: Mick Sprouffske, Deidre Peterson, Rebecca Bonneville, Mendy Harlow, Denis Leverich, Patti Case

Central Mason Fire & EMS

Dominos Pizza

Explore Hood Canal

Hood Canal Lions

Kathy Haigh

John Nesset

Jose Guzman

Karen Everett

KMAS 1030 AM & 103.3 FM

Kristmas Town Kiwanis

Manke Excavating

Mason County Historical Society

Mason County PUD 3

Phyllis and Duane Guenther

Memorial Scholarship Fund

Shelton High School NJROTC

Booster Club & Cadets

Shelton Kiwanis

Shelton Axe Men

Shelton-Mason County Journal

Shelton Rotary

Shelton Family YMCA

Skookum Rotary

Travis and Brianna Sheetz

COVER IMAGE

Wayne Allen (1955 Paul Bunyan) with his kids, Jeffrey & Juliann - photo courtesy of Masn County Historical Society

Paul Bunyan rides the parade on a Manke truck in the parade | photo: © Cooper Studios

Welcome from Mason County FOREST FESTIVAL

MICK SPROUFFSKE | BOARD PRESIDENT

On behalf of the Board of Directors, committee members, and volunteers, welcome to The 80th Annual Mason County Forest Festival. The theme of this year's Forest Festival is "Believe in Bunyan & Babe" celebrating 80 years of this event.

Mason County Forest Festival Association was incorporated in 1947 as a non-profit volunteer organization. Thank you to all of ours sponsors as well as the businesses that advertised in this program. Without your support this event would not be possible. Please consider these businesses and organizations when shopping and doing business in our community.

Forest Festival was established to promote forest fire prevention and celebrate the logging history of Mason County. The first known saw mill in the area was built in 1853 on Mill Creek, just south of Shelton, by Michael T. Simmons. This was the beginning of the timber harvest in Mason County. When Forest Festival began, the area had been actively logged for more than 90 years! Others would join in timber harvest, including Sol G. Simpson. Simpson incorporated Simpson Logging Co. in 1895.

Whether started by lightning or human, fire is a natural part of the landscape. However, fire was and is something that loggers and forest managers despise for its loss of timber, equipment and, most of all, loss of life. By the early 1940s there had been so many forest fires that there was a national effort to prevent wildfire.

In August 1944, the Smokey Bear Wildfire Prevention campaign began. This is the longest-running public service advertising campaign in U.S. history. Smokey's original slogan was "Smokey Says - Care Will Prevent 9 out of 10 Forest Fires" in 1947, the slogan changed to "Only You Can Prevent Forest Fires." Forest Festival was an auxiliary member of the local chapter of the Keep Washington Green Committee, a relationship that lasted for 50 years. For many years of Forest Festival, there were parade floats themed around forest fire prevention and logging history.

Logging and forest fires are still part of our landscape. Today there are several logging companies, mills and major active timberlands in Mason County. Major operations included: Simpson - Reed family, as the owners of Green Diamond Resource Co.; Port Blakely;

Continued next page!

2024 BOARD

President – Mick Sprouffske

Vice President - Amy Cooper

Secretary - Cheryl Earsley

Treasurer - Deidre Peterson

Button winner: Madeline Trimble, 10th, Cedar

Manke Timber Co.; Hama Hama Logging; Sierra Pacific operates a state-of- the-art fir and hemlock mill in Shelton; Alta Forest Products Cedar Mill; and Belco Forest Products. Forest fire is still very much a part of the landscape. Just as it was in 1944 when the Smokey Bear campaign was created, most wildfire can be prevented.

The Paul Bunyan Grand Parade will be as spectacular as ever including floats, dance teams, logging and fire trucks, marching bands, classic cars, and more.

The competition at the logging show will be fierce with several competitors that have competed nationally and internationally. Come to Loop Field, root on your favorite competitor and visit the vendors while you are there.

Forest Festival is not just the parade and the logging show, there are many other events to participate in: The Goldsborough Creek Run/Walk/Jog, Firefighter's Pancake Breakfast, Rockin the Forest, The Shelton Car Show Off, The Kiwanis Duck Race and the Fireworks Show, and new this year, a birthday celebration to commemorate Smokey Bear's 80th anniversary as well!

I would like to thank my fellow board members, committee chairs and all of our volunteers, for their hard work to make every Forest Festival the best. We always welcome new volunteers, if you are interested in joining us, please contact us through masoncountyforestfestival. com. Enjoy the 80th Mason County Forest Festival.

TIMBER STRONG: MESSAGES FROM THE BOARD

AMY COOPER MCFFA VICE PRESIDENT

FAVORITE TRADITIONS

Forrest and I have chosen to raise our family and run our business in Shelton. We are creating our own traditions with Caroline, our daughter, and Forest Festival is one of them.

The excitement builds downtown as businesses prep for this grand event and share

photos & stories. Forest Fest is so loved. Seeing neighbors and visitors fill the streets of Shelton to experience this great event is exciting and heartwarming. We love to attend the carnival, fireworks shows, music events, logging displays, car show and especially the Parade. It’s a tradition for many, both for locals and visitors.

CHERYL EARSLEY MCFFA SECRETARY BUNYAN–SIZED SUPPORT!

I have lived in Shelton most of my life and have many memories of watching the Paul Bunyan Grand Parade with my family and friends.

My husband and I have been involved with the logging show for many years. When our daughter, Eryn, was honored to be part of the Royalty Court for two years, I enjoyed helping with the court during parades. It was rewarding and I wanted to continue to help, so I joined the Festival Committee. We welcome new volunteers.If you'd like to join or learn more about how you can support, contact us or reach out online at masoncountyforestfestival.com.

COMMUNITY

PRIDE

Forest Festival holds a special place in my heart. I fondly remember attending the parade with my parents, viewing the queen’s portraits at the museum as my grandmother pointed out her classmates, begging to go with my cousins to enjoy the carnival, seeing neighbors gathered at Loop Field for the logging show, and running into friends of friends at the car show-off. The weekend is so much more that a collection of events—it is a gathering of community.

Throughout the years, Forest Festival has served as a bridge between the past and the present, honoring the customs and traditions passed down to us while also evolving to embrace our modern world. It is steeped in history and cherished by generations. The festival pays homage to those who came before us, keeping their legacy alive through our joyful celebrations.

But as we look to the future, we must also recognize the importance of taking part in sustaining our beloved festival.

DEIDRE PETERSON MCFFA TREASURER

It is not enough to merely be spectators; we must all play a role in nurturing and preserving this beloved tradition. Whether it's volunteering your time, sharing your talents, or simply spreading the word, every contribution, no matter how small, is essential to making sure Forest Festival sees the next eighty years.

So, I urge you to join us in embracing tradition and becoming engaged in our Forest Festival. Together, let us continue to write the next chapter in the rich tapestry of our history, ensuring that Forest Festival remains a beacon of joy and unity for generations to come.

Thank you VOLUNTEERS

Darrel Andrews, Amy Cooper, Central Mason Fire & EMS, Patti Case, City of Shelton Public Works & Parks, David Dalzatto, Tanya & Mark Frazier, Martha Reed Foundation, Steve Galka, The Hansen Family, Denis Leverich, Anna Liljas, Erica Marbet, Kim McElliott, Genie McFarland, Amanda Peralta, Deidre Peterson, Robin Redman, Lonni Rickard, Bri & Travis Sheetz, Linda Shrum, Jeff Slakey, Jenifer Sliva, Diane Zoren and the families supporting the Royalty Court.

If we missed anyone, please accept our apologies.

LINDSEY OZUNA

QUEEN OF THE FOREST

$2,000 - PHYLLIS & DUANE

GUENTHER SCHOLARSHIP

FUND AND MASON COUNTY FOREST FESTIVAL

"Hello, I am incredibly honored and excited to be able to represent beautiful Mason County! Our community, alongside my Mexican-American family, have shaped me into the person I am today. I enjoy being outdoors and learning about people and different cultures. I founded the Latinx Club at SHS, was a part of SHS Girls Basketball all four years, and I enjoy volunteering. The Mason General Hospital Foundation and the Shelton School District are some places where I volunteer. I will be pursuing a double major in Business Administration and Public Health at Gonzaga University this fall! I am honored and ecstatic to be this year’s Queen of the Forest!"

BEN WATKINS

PAUL BUNYAN

$2,000 - SKOOKUM ROTARY

"I have lived in Mason County my whole life. I will be graduating from Shelton High School in June. Additionally, I will receive my AA degree from Olympic College. This fall, I will be attending Gonzaga University. Go Zags! I played basketball for four years. Now I am coaching basketball. I am a member of National Honor Society and the Latinx Club. As a member of Shelton Presbyterian Church, I have participated in many service projects. One fun fact is that my Mom is a former Forest Festival Queen, and my Uncle Joe was Smokey the Bear. I am honored to carry on this tradition and represent Mason County as this year's Paul Bunyan."

JASMINE MEJIA

PRINCESS OF HEMLOCK

$1,500 - MASON COUNTY FOREST FESTIVAL

"My name is Jasmine Mejia, I’m a Junior at Cedar High school. I hope to be an Environmental Engineer. I enjoy hobbies like sketching, reading, walking, and doing sports. I love being around Jesus, family, my pug, and friends. I’m excited to learn, grow, and make new memories. Also by letting everyone know anything is possible! "

CONGRATULATIONS

ORRE LEGGETT

TIMBER THE AXEMAN

$1,500 - SHELTON ROTARY

"This year I’m very proud to be part of the Forest Festival as Timber the Axeman where I’m looking forward to going to parades and festivals making memories with my fellow court members and meeting all sorts of new people. I’m working on college credits at Olympic College as a running start student while working 20+ hours a week at the Union Square deli, which is a family owned business. This fall I am going to attend Western Washington for art. I plan to use this degree to become an animator for places like Disney and Pixar where I will be making movies and/ or TV shows. Some of my hobbies are fishing and camping, I try to spend as much time as I can outside in our beautiful Northwest."

KODEE GALLOWAY

PRINCESS OF DOUGLAS FIR

$1,500 - KRISTMAS TOWN KIWANIS & SHELTON KIWANIS

"I am currently a junior at Shelton High School. After graduation next year I plan on furthering my education by getting my general AA and attending dental school. I enjoy doing sports both basketball and soccer as well as going off-roading in big trucks with my family and friends. During summer I love to camp, paddleboard and wakeboard. I am very excited to be the Princess of Douglas Fir, it has been the best part of my junior year. I am thankful to have the opportunity to give back to my community. When I was little I looked up to the royalty court, and I am very excited to be a role model for the younger generation. I am looking forward to a fun and busy Forest Festival season with my fellow royalty court."

CONGRATULATIONS 2024 ROYALTY COURT

Caroline Cooper.

GOLDSBOROUGH CREEK FUN RUN/WALK

The Centennial Guild, a chapter of Mason General Hospital Foundation, is pleased to annually present this run/walk event in the community. Proceeds support Mason County Forest Festival, a scholarship, and equipment fund for the local hospital in memory of Kristi Armstrong, a nurse, and Guild member.

The run started as a gathering for friends to run around Loop Field and downtown before the parade and then grew to the more organized event we know today. The event is for walkers or runners of all ability levels.

The race begins June 1 at 6 AM. Follow signage to check-in on Railroad Ave. Participants are bussed from check-in to the start line. The 7 mile walk starts at 7 AM so that walkers complete the course by roughly 9:30 AM. The main events, the 7 mile run and 2 mile run/walk begin at 8 AM. The run events and 2 mile walk will be using electronic timing so please pre-register. The junior jog begins at 9:30 AM on Railroad Avenue. An awards ceremony is held at the registration area at 9:45 AM, giving medals to a variety of age categories and prizes donated from local businesses.

Centennial Guild, a chapter of Mason General Hospital Foundation, has been managing the event for the Forest Festival Association since 2009. It is a major fund raiser for the Guild. Register at runsignup.

com/Race/WA/Shelton/GoldsboroughCreekRun. Cost is $15-25. Early bird registration is before May 8. June 1: last date to pre-register; June 4: Day of race registration with additional $5 fee for all run and walk participants.

Proud Sponsor of the 2024 Mason County Forest Festival Congratulations on 80 Years!

Central Mason 5 Firefighters PANCAKE BREAKFAST

JUNE 1, 7-11 AM

STATION #58, 122 W FRANKLIN ST, SHELTON

Support Central Mason #5 by enjoying the full breakfast served by the firefighters at Station #58 in downtown Shelton (across from Dairy Queen). The event is before the Paul Bunyan Grand Parade and an important fundraiser and an annual community event for the Station. Breakfast is by donation and includes pancakes, french toast, sausage, scrambled eggs, juice and coffee.

WHEN: June 1, 10:30 AM

WHAT: Family & Pet Parade

WHERE: 7th & Railroad Avenue HOW: It's free! Dress up, bring the family and pets and be a part of the parade! Prizes and awards for the best entries & themed entries: "Believe in Bunyan & Babe."

All ages, families, groups, and their pets are invited to lead the Paul Bunyan Grand Parade and have some good old fashioned fun in the Family and Pet Parade, June 1, 10:30 AM.

Dress up with your pets, decorate your bike, wear a costume, have a forest theme (Believe in Bunyan and Babe) or something totally different! Ribbons awarded for best entries in the following categories: Group or Family; Dress-up with Pet; Forestry Theme; Costumes/Fairy Tales; Float or Decorated Wagon; and Decorated Bike.

Everyone is welcome to participate in the Family Parade and it is a lot of fun for the whole family! Entry forms: masoncountyforestfestival.com.

CREATIVITY

Creativity and fun are encouraged at the Family & Pet Parade. Many parade participantsdress their dogs, cats, goats and even bunnies for the Family and Pet Parade – get creative there are prizes! Thank you Shelton Family YMCA sponsoring and running this event.

Congratulations to the 2024 Royalty Court and Mason County Forest Festival on your 80th Anniversary!

76th Forest Festival Queen Grace

Get ready for the 2024 Paul Bunyan GRAND PARADE

Who doesn't like a parade? Be prepared to be wowed by the marching bands, beautiful floats and many classic trucks and cars that will appeal to automobile enthusiasts. Don’t forget to wave at Paul Bunyan and Babe the Blue Ox as they pass!

The 2024 Forest Festival Court will be on display in all their regalia. The beautiful float that they appear on is the result of many hours of hard work done by the royalty and their families The court also visits numerous other festivals throughout the year on their float. Honoring past Forest Festival royalty is a long-time tradition, look for them to appear in this year's parade. Also keep an eye out for visiting royalty from other festivals and their creative presentations.

Commercial entries in the parade are a great way for organizations to show community support. Local industries like shellfish, forestry, insurance, emergency services, utilities, and more make up a large portion of the business pageantry of parade day. Non-profit groups and organizations are always highlights of the parade.

From honoring veterans to guiding youths these groups promote our community every day. Look for entries from the Boy and Girl Scouts, Shriners, American Legion, 4-H, and equestrian group — just to name a few.

Parade participants compete for various awards in several categories. The unique award plaques have been designed and produced by local high school students (see article page 10). Some of the categories include Grand Sweepstakes, Grand Marshal, Motorized Vehicles, Spirit, Creativity, Novelty, Equestrian, Bands, and Dance/Drill.

The Forest Festival Parade committee encourages organizations to get creative and be part of the annual Forest Festival Paul Bunyan Grand Parade. Come out and enjoy the parade as a spectator – it wouldn’t be a parade without the community!

How can you be a part of the Parade?

Everyone is welcome to enter. Families decorate wagons, bikes, even their pets; businesses and organizations decorate their classic cars, trucks and even build elaborate floats to enter the Paul Bunyan Grand Parade. It's a lot of fun, a great way to spread a message to the community and also a great way to build community!

WHEN: June 1, 11 AM. Parade entries must be checked in by 9:30AM. WHERE: Railroad Avenue

HOW: Commercial entries (i.e. it advertises your business) pay a $50 entry fee. There is no fee if you are a Festival sponsor. Candidates running for public office must pay a $100 entry fee. Entries are encouraged to be decorated using the annual theme (Believe in Bunyan & Babe), including music and animation. All entries must submit proof of liability insurance with the application.For additional details on entering, visit: masoncountyforestfestival.com/parade.

CELEBRATING 80 YEARS OF GRAND PARADES!

The Forest Festival parade has been a much loved tradition in Mason County since 1945. In the early years it's reported that as many as 30,000+ attendees filled the streets of downtown Shelton! In 2024 the Grand Parade celebrates 80 years, here's a look at highlights from the last eight decades!

Mason County Forest Festival Grand Marshal:

MICK SPROUFFSKE

Mick Sprouffske has dedicated 20 years to the Mason County Forest Festival. He has held worn many hats over the years but most recently holds the role of president and logging show coordinator. Mick began volunteering with Forest Festival in 2004. Mason County Forest Festival extends congratulations and heartfelt thanks to Mick Sprouffske for two decades of leadership and support as a volunteer for the Festival!

During high school, Mick was a volunteer firefighter on Harstine Island. As a 1984 graduate of Shelton High School, he was honored to be the Forest Festival Paul Bunyan.

After high school, he attended Spokane Falls Community College before joining the Navy. After serving in the Navy he worked for Manke as a surveyor. In 1998, he started working

for Mason Countywhere he became licensed. In 2005, he went to work for the Department of Natural Resources (DNR) where he now a regional manager. Mickhas been a member of Land Surveyor Association of WA (LSAW) for over 22 years. As an advocate for the forest industry WA, Mick has gone to Washington DC twice to lobby for surveyors.Thank you, Mick, for your support!

1984 Festival Court

County Line Fire

Wood-Fired Pizza & Mediterranean Tapas

Sponsor SpotlightGREEN DIAMOND

CELEBRATES 80 YEARS OF THE FOREST FESTIVAL, GENERATIONS OF SUSTAINABLE FORESTRY IN

MASON COUNTY

The Forest Festival in Mason County is a tradition. It was started in 1945 to celebrate the contributions of the timber industry, including jobs and quality of life it provides for residents.

Green Diamond is pleased to celebrate the event’s 80th anniversary with the community this year. The company has deep roots in Mason County, starting in 1890 when Sol Simpson founded Simpson Logging Company. Today, it’s a sixth-generation, family-owned company that sustainably manages over 2.2 million acres of working forestland across the U.S. West and South.

Even as forest industry practices evolve, Mason County Forest Festival is one event that still stands on its core mission: To promote forest fire prevention and celebrate the rich history of timber industry in Mason County. Green Diamond teams across the county are proud to do their part to protect, preserve, and plant its forestlands.

Sound Learning has provided community-based education for adults in Mason County since 1991. We support economic development through education. We offer relevant, high-quality instruction that prepares students for family-wage jobs and helps individuals develop the skills needed to fulfill their potential as family members, workers, and community members.

Sound Learning provides instruction for: GED or High School + diploma, academic skills improvement to prepare for training or college programs, improve workplace skills, or get a job, English for Speakers of other Languages, and citizenship prep tutoring.

Across the company’s timberlands, foresters and scientists are taking proactive steps to remove wildfire fuels from the landscape, sustainably manage and restore resilient timberlands, and inspire and celebrate all the forest industry brings to communities and homes across the state, nation, and world.

As a company that prioritizes sustainability, Green Diamond land is independently audited and is certified as sustainable to ensure forest products from Green Diamond lands, whether it’s paper products, lumber, or other long-lived wood products, come from sustainably managed forests. After harvest, up to 1,000 trees can be planted each day to restart the cycle of renewable wood products. All the landscape work, from harvest to planting, is done in a way that protects fish and wildlife and promotes clean water, healthy salmon runs, and soil health.

More than 110,000 acres of Green Diamond’s working forestland in Western Washington, including Mason Lake Recreation Area, is enjoyed by people to recreate, hunt, fish, hike, and more. For the Mason County Forest Festival organizers and community members who work with Green Diamond and alongside the company every day, congratulations on 80 years of celebrating the contributions of the timber industry and the hard-working people who have kept it going strong and sustainably for generations.

COOPER STUDIOS PHOTO

SOUTH SOUND’S

CASINO

FUN & FOOD VOTED

RED WIND IS FUN

The award-winning Nisqually Red Wind Casino has become the South Sound’s go-to spot for gaming and dining.

Boasting an expansive 46,000 square foot gaming floor, the casino offers more than 1,650 slot machines, Keno, Sports Betting, and a plethora of table games including Players Edge 21, Head’s Up Hold’em, Keep It Straight, High Card Flush, Roulette, Emperors Challenge, Emperors Challenge Exposed, Blackjack with Lucky Ladies and 21+3 side wagers, and Craps with 10x odds.

There are also multiple dining venues from fast casual to fine dining, including the Medicine Creek Deli, Pealo’s Bar, Coho Sports Lounge, and the River Water Bar & Grille. Coming this summer, experience The Delta, our all-new food court venue with amazing food options on the go.

Septic Pumping and Inspection

Septic Repair and Drainfield Rehab

PORTABLE TOILET RENTAL

Construction Sites and Events

FOREST FESTIVAL CARNIVAL MAY 30-

JUNE 2

Cotton candy, candy apples, churros, stuffed animals in brilliant colors, and rides that make your head spin are all part of the Mason County Forest Festival! The carnival opens Thursday at 4 PM (May 30) and goes through Sunday. The carnival is located on 1st and Grove downtown Shelton.

Kids of all ages will be thrilled to see return of the rides and “fair” food as well as plenty of carnival games. The carnival is open Thursday 4-9 PM, Friday 4-10 PM,

Saurday 12-10 PM, Sunday 12-8 PM , hours dependent on attendance and weather. Check website for details on pre-sale wristbands locations.

LYNCH CREEK FARM

LYNCH CREEK FARM PREMIER SPONSOR OF 2024 MASON COUNTYFOREST FESTIVAL SPONSOR

It started as a way to keep the boys out of trouble in a garage on Lynch Road, an extension of the summer season with the organic vegetables and cut flowers. At that time just a couple hundred wreaths a year were made by hand, just like it’s done now, but today Andy Hunter employs 40 year-round full-time employees and more than 500 seasonal workers in two locations in Shelton and Elma, making them one of the largest employers in the area each fall.

Starting with an organic vegetable farm and produce at the Shelton Farmers' Market, in 1984 at the Olympia Farmers' Market.The youngest son, Andrew Hunter, has stayed with the tradition of the family farmer and loves every minute of it. (Except when the goats get out!)

The farm sells dahlia flowers during the summer months and produces the highest quality evergreen Christmas wreaths and centerpieces during the holiday season. They have expanded the dahlia business opening a stand on the farm with U-Cut dahlias and bouquets. It helps support the local community with a family activity we all enjoy. Each year local fundraisers take over the dahlia stand and keep 100% of the sales for that day.

WREATHS

Their main focus is selling fresh Christmas wreaths and centerpieces online. With over 200,000 square feet of warehouse space, their facilities is able to take on any size order.Lynch Creek has a reputation for excellence, and their customers have come to expect nothing less from us. From making bows, piecing together wreaths, and answering phones, Andy understands that the culture of Lynch Creek Farm is just as important as the final product that shows up in the iconic red box. In addition to his staff, the connections he makes with others like Green Diamond, Cooper Studios, and local farmers, Andy speaks often of the relationships he has built over the years in the business.

Until recently, both the wreaths and the centerpieces were made in Shelton but with business growing about 20% each year Andy needed to secure more space to grow. Like his great relationship with the Port of Shelton, a 200,000 square foot building at the Satsop Business Park at the Port of Grays Harbor has become his centerpiece hub where 150 of his employees work to create product that will end up on tables across the country.

HAMA HAMA OYSTER FARM

DAHLIAS

Lynch Creek Farm has been growing dahlias for well over 25 years. In 2018 Andy decided to open the dahlia fields to the public as a u-pick – and ever since it has been a much anticipated annual attraction.

With three acres of dahlias to plant and prepare, it's a family affair with three generations of the Hunter family making sure there are plenty of blooms to

WHEN: June 1, 1:00 PM

WHAT:Forest Festival Logging Show

WHERE: Loop Field, Shelton

HOW: IT'S FREE! Head over to Loop Field after the Grand Parde to enjoy vendors, chain saw carving, awards ceremony and a fun interactive logging show!

2024 MASON COUNTY FOREST FESTIVAL LOGGING SHOW

This is going to be another great logging competition, held at Loop Field. This year we will have up to 16 Men competing in the "Super Six" Championship and 12 Women competing in the " Featured 4" Championship. Expect to see some of the best logging sport athletes in the West at this show. There is prize money for the top six athletes in each event .

The "Super Six" Championship events are the Spring Board Chop, Stock Saw, Standing Block Chop, Single Buck, Underhand Chop and the Hotsaw. The "Featured 4" Championship events are the Stock Saw, Standing Block Chop, Single Buck and the Underhand Chop.

There will also four Open Events-Speed Climbing, Tree Topping, Axe Throwing and Birling (log rolling). Also featured in the vendor area will be large scale chainsaw milling demos.

Come to Loop Field after the Paul Bunyan Grand Parade, visit the vendors, and enjoy the show, opening ceremony is at 1PM.

Loop Field has been the site of most of the Forest Festival logging shows since 1945. In fact, Loop Field is one of the places where logging competition first got started in the USA. It's a great setting with the lush green grass and the back drop of the majestic fir trees.

Thanks goes to the City of Shelton, in particular Parks and Recreation, for the going the extra mile in maintaining Loop Field.

Thank you also to the City Public Works staff for all of their help every year.

Congratulations to our first DAISY Award Winner!

Traci Wiley, RN Birth Center

Mason Health is proud to announce our first winner of the DAISY Award for Extraordinary Nurses — Traci Wiley, RN, from the Birth Center.

The

DAISY Award for Extraordinary Nurses is part of the national DAISY Foundation’s mission to recognize the extraordinary, compassionate care that nurses provide patients and families every day.

Scan Here

to nominate a nurse for The DAISY Award

Mason Health will recognize an extraordinary nurse every quarter. Congratulations to our Quarter 1 2024 nominees!

This quarter’s nominees included: Becky Bingham, RN, Resource Nurse; Leah Coleman, RN, PACU; Rosalyn Gri in, RN, MSP; Joss Meagley, RN, ED; Bronwyn Kennedy, RN, Wound Care; Kim Nicewonger, RN, Walk-In Clinic; Taylor Rebh, RN, Emergency Department; Michele Rose, RN, Wound Care; Patrick Santos, RN, ED and Marica Thomas, RN, Birth Center.

Nurses may be nominated by patients, families, and colleagues.

ALL AGES MUSIC EVENT

ROCKIN' THE FOREST

After the Logging Show and before the fireworks , check out the Rockin The Forest music event, June 1, 4:30 -9 PM, hosted by the Martha Reed Foundation, and featuring musical favorites including the Lester Crow Band, The Olson Bros Band and the Kyle & Darin Band.

This year event is once again hosted in the Our Community Credit Union parking lot on Olympic Highway N making it a convenient "before the fireworks" location to celebrate Forest Festival.

Along with live music, this free family-friendly event will have food trucks and

a beer garden all proudly supporting the efforts of the Martha Reed Foundation.

The Martha Reed Foundation is a group of Mason County community members who believe in supporting their local community with positive actions and projects.

Sponsor

Spotlight

SIERRA PACIFIC INDUSTRIES

The crew at Sierra Pacific Industries (SPI) is thrilled to sponsor the 2024 Mason County Forest Festival. This year’s theme “Believe in Bunyan and Babe” is a wonderful way to celebrate the county’s proud legacy in the forest products industry.

The future is also bright for the local industry. The Shelton division employs over 300 crewmembers, producing framing, or “stud” lumber. These advanced-manufacturing jobs offer family-wage level salaries, excellent benefits and almost unlimited promotion potential.

The modern forest products industry offers the ultimate in green jobs. SPI is certified to produce and manufacture wood products on a sustainable basis by the Sustainable Forestry Initiative (SFI). This certification requires that SPI ensure that not only our own processes are sustainable, but that we verify that all the wood purchased from others is also sustainably harvested. Washington has some of the strongest environmental regulations in the world and the majority of log suppliers, including the Washington state lands, are also third-party certified.

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We’re proud to be your public power provider for 85 years and counting! Thanks for being our customer!

Celebrating 85 EST. 1939

YEARS

COOPER STUDIOS PHOTO

(continued from previous page)

Together, the managed working forests and wood products deliver substantial carbon benefits. In its Sixth Assessment Report, the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) found that the use of wood products contributes to carbon mitigation in two distinctly different ways: carbon storage in wood products and material substitution.

That’s because when the trees from sustainably harvested forests are used to manufacture lumber and other building products, the carbon remains stored throughout the wood product’s lifespan. Wood that is substituted for other building materials that are not renewable, or require more energy to produce, helps communities achieve sustainability goals.

These products are also part of the solution in the housing shortage. The average home in the United States requires 14,650 board feet of lumber (Source: FEA). Using that calculation, the Shelton Sawmill produced enough lumber for 31,056 homes last year, all while storing carbon for decades, maybe even a century!

We at SPI are proud to continue the legacy of a town founded in the rich abundance of natural resources in the area. That pride extends to providing excellent career opportunities right downtown Shelton as part of a working waterfront. It is exciting that we can continue to look to a future with an industry that provides forest products and environmental solutions at the same time!

Check out the Forest Festival merchandise at Festival events!

WHEN: June 1, 10:00 PM

WHAT:Spectacular Fireworks Show

WHERE: Oakland Bay Junior High

HOW: IT'S FREE! Pack up the whole family and head up to Kneeland Blvd area to watch the show! Best viewing is from Walmart and Fred Meyer lots.

MASON COUNTY FOREST FESTIVAL

FIREWORKS SHOW | JUNE 1

In the 1940’s Elmer Manke began a family’s legacy as a timber family in the Pacific Northwest when timber products were the main industry in Mason County. Today the forestry ties are still deep in the community with the Festival and a waterfront dominated by the timber industry.

Manke Lumber Company is a family owned business with ties to virtually every aspect of the timber industry. With generations of history in Mason County, Forest Festival is a way in which Manke celebrates our timber heritage. For many years, Manke has been the sponsor of the spectacular fireworks show Saturday evening of the Forest Festival event.

Arrive early as parking fills as families settle in to surround the viewing areas near Shelton’s Oakland Bay Junior High School. Preferred spots include Fred Meyer and Walmart parking lots.

A great plan is to secure your space with a good visual of the Sheltom Middle School playing fields and head over to the Rockin' the Forest live music event event hosted at Our Community Credit Union's parking lot (thanks OurCCU for your support!) from 4:30 - 9 PM. This is an all ages event. There is a beer garden and food available as well.

The fireworks start around 10 PM which is approximately when the sun sets. What a spectacular way to end the day! Thank you to the Manke family for sup- porting this exciting display to celebrate Forest Festival 2024!

The carnival also goes until 10 PM

COOPER

SHELTON CAR SHOWOFF

In 1990 a car show was added to Mason County Forest Festival sanctioned events. Since 2010, the Shelton High School Navy Junior Reserve Officer Training Corps. (NJROTC) Booster Club has hosted this event on the Sunday of Forest Festival, in 2024 it's on June 2.

Months of planning go into this event and on the day of the show it takes eight city blocks of space and about 50 volunteers to operate! Hundreds of vehicle travel from all over Washington (and some from Oregon and Idaho) to attend & participate.

Proceeds this year will continue to help support the NJROTC cadets’ leadership program and activities. The Booster Club is able to help send cadets to leadership academy and competitions with funds they raise from the car show. Proceeds will support the Mason County Forest Festival.

The Shelton Car Showoff continues to be a success because of all the support from the car owners, the local businesses that help sponsor the event costs and the dedication of the cadets and volunteers that participate every year.

Thank you to our Gold Sponsors: The Shopper, West Bay Napa, South Sound Appliance, Shelton Tabs and Titles, AAA Septic The Optical Shop, and Peninsula Credit Union.

Thank you to our Silver Sponsors: Cut Rate Auto Parts, Shelton Dental Center, Melanie Bakala Insurance, Our Community Credit Union, The Whitener Group, and Advanced Automotive Services.

Thank you to our Bronze Sponsors: Kilowatt Electric, Hood Canal Communications, Denny's Auto, Manalani Designs, and the Aberdeen Tap Room.

Thank you to our Modest Sponsor: Pascucci's Paint Correction and Ceramic Coating

The event is located "uptown" on Olympic Hwy N, between C and K Streets. Car registration is 8 AM – 11 AM on “F” Street. The car registration fee is $25 per car with dash plaques available for the first 300 registered on site. Plaques will be awarded in 35 categories.

The event is Sunday, June 4th from 9 AM – 3 PM and is free to spectators. There will be food vendors on site, a silent auction or regular raffle, and a 50/50 raffle.

COOPER

GENERATIONS IN ROYALTY COURT FESTIVAL TRADITION

LORI WATKINS (BEN WATKINS' FAMILY)

My Mom, Karen Everett, began coming to Mason County to our family's beach house when she was a young girl. She also recalls the excitement and fun of attending the Forest Festival Parades. After our family moved to Mason County, we frequently visited my Great Aunt Phyllis and Uncle Duane Guenther who had a home in Union. They loved Mason County and enthusiastically looked forward to attending the Forest Festival Parade each year.

They were very proud when I became the Forest Festival Queen in 1989 and came to the parade with extended family members and friends. My Mom raised my brother, Joe Everett, and me as a single Mom after my Dad suddenly passed away in 1980.

My Aunt Phyllis and Uncle Duane generously helped pay for our college education because they knew my hard working Mom could not afford to send us to college on her own. My dream was to help children by becoming a counselor.

The same way my own counselor helped me through my grief when my Dad died. My brother wanted to become a teacher like our Mom. Our family was so grateful for the assistance from Aunt Phyllis and Uncle Duane that my Mom wanted to

help honor their name and keep that Spirit of Generosity alive after they passed away. Therefore, she created a scholarship in their name and helped when and where she could with the Forest Festival.

I decided to participate in the Forest Festival because I love Mason County. I felt like it would be a true honor to represent the generosity of the people of Mason County, and encourage people to visit our beautiful county. I have always been impressed by the support of the business owners of Mason County. As a high school student, I remember knowing that our local businesses would always do what they could to support us. They still do. My favorite part of being on the royalty court was interacting with the children. It was such a joy to see the looks on their faces when we waved to them from the float and visited the children at school. It is so important for children to have positive role models in their community.

I feel proud, humbled and honored to see my son, Ben, continue the tradition of representing Mason County in the Forest Festival. I am glad that he has had the opportunity to be loved and nurtured by the good people of our community and that he has grown up playing outdoors in the fresh air and natural beauty of Mason

Open Hours: Sunday 12-8 Classes 12:30 & 5 Wednesday 12-8

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12:30 & 5

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Studio 12-5

5:30-7:30

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County. As parents our goal is to raise children who are good citizens and who will make positive contributions to the community.

My husband, Doug and I are proud of both of our children, Rachel and Ben, who have already invested in our community through youth group leadership, coaching and now community service through Forest Festival.

Studio 12-5 Class 5:30-7:30 Friday 12-8

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The Chamber supports local businesses and local people. For 100 years we have served as a catalyst for business growth, a convener of leaders and influencers, and a champion for a strong community. Our thanks goes out to the incredible volunteers, sponsors, businesses, and participants who make community traditions like Forest Festival possible.

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Forest Festival is important to our family for a few reasons. My Dad had his own small logging business in Mason County. So we have a personal connection to the timber industry. We also love the tradition that Forest Festival brings. It is a multi-generational family and community celebration.

People in Mason County work hard, support each other in times of need, and during the first weekend in June we have fun with our friends and neighbors. Traditions such as the Forest Festival are what makes a community special and give it some of its charm.

Ben has grown up hearing about his Mom being a "Queen", and his Uncle Joe being "Smokey the Bear." When he was a little boy, he thought I was pretty old when he saw my portrait hanging in our history museum.

My Mom still has my crown on one of the shelves at her house, so he grew up with a proud Grandma who loved to tell tales of the Forrest Festival, too.

Ben was pretty excited when he held the awesome ax in his hands for the first time as the new Paul Bunyan. Ben is really looking forward to interacting with the kids, visiting the elementary schools and doing whatever he can to promote Mason County and be a positive role model.

Community arts celebrations for all ages

CELEBRATE ART IN MASON COUNTY JULY 27

SATURDAY, JULY 27

Love Forest Festival? Looking for another great local event that celebrates community? The Grapeview Community Association is once again sponsoring the Grapeview Water & Art Festival, representing the best of summer in North Mason County and in nearby Shelton, the City and Merchants Association are hosting the first annual Art Walk that evening!

Head to the waterfront Fair Harbor Marina Saturday July 27, 10-4, for the annual Water & Art Festival. This event invites all ages to enjoy good food, live music, free children’s activities and shopping for unique quality art made by WA artists.

The food court offers hamburgers and hot dogs, along with steamed clams, shrimp cocktail, corn-on-the-cob, grilled cheese sandwiches, and fruit cobblers made by members of the Grapeview Community Association.

This year’s Art Corridor offers attendees an extensive display of the work of 48 individually-selected artists representing seven different artistic media.

The Children’s Area offers wooden-boat, birdhouse, and airplane building, along other fun crafts. Hole-in-

One” golf event provides lots of challenge as guests try to hit a barge in the bay.

Admission to the Grapeview Water & Art Festival is free as are all the kids' activities. The money raised is given back to the community through scholarships and donations. For information on the Grapeview Water & Art Festival, visit grapeviewwa.com.

When the Grapeview Arts Festival concludes, head to Shelton for another great way to enjoy local art in the area. The Shelton Art Walk is planned as a evening night market on three blocks of Cota Street, July 27, 4-10 PM. Organizers anticipate up to 80 local vendors and artists to be in attendance showcasing their talents through a variety of mediums including live perfor-

mances. There will be free kids activities and food as well. For more information and how you can be involved as a participant or an

attendee visit the Arts Walk page on the Shelton Downtown Merchants website or visit explorehoodcanal.com.

THREE GENERATIONS OF FOREST FESTIVAL

ROYALTY

LISA LEGGETT (ORRE LEGGETT FAMILY)

My mother Kathy Dickinson was nominated to run in 1969 by a group of teachers at Shelton High School. Someone was selected from North Mason, Mary M Knight, and 3 candidates from Shelton High School.

A long-lasting memory my mother often shared was the comradery and friendships she made as a forest festival court. (They became such close friends that two of the women were actually in her wedding.)

She has such found memories of picking out the patterns for a traveling garment and formal which she made herself. She felt very royal when she got to meet Govenor Dan Evans and attended luncheons at all the service organizations. She looks back at her memories with fondness and it was such a wonderful experience that she carried forward in life. That is why it was so easy to encourage her oldest daughter to run in 1992 and for her grandson to run in 2024.

In 1992 I held the position of Princess of Cedar, which still to this day is my favorite tree in our surrounding forest. I ran for the Forest Festival Court because I enjoyed the great stories and photos my mother shared from her experience. I absolutely loved the photo of

her court holding hands and running in the lawn of Kneeland Park and as a kid I knew I wanted to have that experience.

When I think about my favorite time as a court member, I am reminded of joy I had waving the princess wave and smiling on a float I help make. I felt very proud to represent Mason County and my roots in the timber industry. It is so heart warming to look back on the fond memories of my youth through the eyes of my son Orre. who is the present Timber the Axeman. I better understand the excitement and joy my mother had when I ran for court. It is fun to know that as a family we are rooted here in Mason County and within the Forest Festival family.

Forest Festival is a community event and brings Mason County together as a whole. I grew up in this County and got out to see the world but chose to come back because there was no other place I could call home that had all the natural beauty this county has to offer. The Olympic Mountains and its glacier lakes are a part of me, my family and my son. The Forest Festival is a representation of what this county has to offer.

Orre is very proud to continue this tradition. He is excited to come back from University to be a part of this history and represent his County. Who knows maybe my grandchildren will be apart of this legacy.

1969 Royalty Court: Princess Kathy Dickinson, Princess Rita Nutt, Paul Bunyan Chris Close, and Queen Janice Wittenberg

1992 Forest Festival Court

1992 2024

CELEBRATING OUR

DEEP ROOTS

TIMBER HERITAGE IN MASON COUNTY

Stella Wenstob| historical contributor

From Alaska to Northern California, logging towns are an iconic part of the Pacific Northwest. Mill towns, log sorts and boom towns all have their roots in this historical legacy. With Mason County’s Forest Festival fast approaching it is a good time to reflect on Shelton’s distinctive forestry heritage.

In 1853, the mighty growth of Douglas Firs, Sitka Spruce and Western Red Cedar attracted the first industry to Mason County as M.T. Simmons, Wesley B. Gisnel and Orrington Cushman built the first water driven mill on what would become known as Mill Creek. This little enterprise was washed away with flood waters in the first year, but in true pioneer spirit it was rebuilt again. Many more water driven mills were built on Hammersley and Oakland Bay.

Oakland, Arcadia and Union were busy logging communities by the 1860s. In the mid-1880s, the Satsop Railroad was laid to transport logs out of the forests as the easy to reach shoreline timber was dwindling. The railroad terminus was David Shelton’s claim at the head of Oakland Bay – now known as Shelton. Other logging railroads followed as logging continued to boom.

In 1887 Sol G. Simpson began building and managing the Puget Sound & Grays Harbor Railroad out of Old Kamilche. It was here that Simpson introduced horse teams to transport the felled logs to the railroad lines. Previously on the west coast, oxen teams were used to do the heavy hauling.

Simpson also introduced the steam driven donkey engine for yarding to Puget Sound. By the late 1890s, Simpson joined forces with lumberman A. H. Anderson (also known as the Tall Fir of Mason County) in consolidating the railroads and logging interests in Mason County.

In stature and appetite, Anderson has been characterized as a real-life Paul Bunyan. Purportedly, his great height prompted the Shelton Hotel to install an oversize tub and bed for the distinguished guest. Like the Paul Bunyan story of eating exceptionally substantial breakfasts, a fellow logger recalled that for breakfast “Anderson liked a fairly thick beef steak about one foot long, a quart of coffee, and, if he wasn’t really hungry, ten eggs.”

Simpson and Anderson were long seeing capitalists. Unlike other companies of Puget Sound who would sell off their logged lands or let them go into tax arrears, Simpson and Anderson held on to their denuded tenures. They understood the importance of land and of future logging opportunities.

It wasn’t until the 1920s that Shelton entered forestry manufacturing. Previously, Shelton’s timber had been shipped out to be milled at other locations, like McCleary, Seattle, Tacoma, and Ports Blakely, or Port Gamble. Simpson’s son-in-law, Mark Reed led the Simpson Logging Company in this new manufacturing age after Sol Simpson’s retirement.

In 1924, the Simpson’s Logging Company began construction of a power plant and the Reed Mill Company in Shelton. The Reed Mill focused on milling Western Hemlock and supplying material for the fledgling Rainier Pulp & Paper Company (founded in 1926).

Although logging was primarily about “getting the wood,” pulp and paper products emerged as important industries to Mason County. Further advances in research in 1931 by the scientist of Rainier and DuPont discovered methods of taking the cellulose from Western Hemlocks and converting it into a fiber which could be formed into a wood-based plastic known as cellophane and could be spun into the revolutionary new fabric Rayon. Although the acids used in the early process were environmentally damaging and a major safety concern for workers, this technology was revolutionary. As silk and cotton became scarce during the war, Rayon was important for parachutes, clothing, and bandages.

Rainier called this pulp material “Rayonier,” combining Rayon and Mount Rainier (visible from their plant in Shelton), soon after this they renamed their business Rayonier. Nitrocellulose (or guncotton) used for explosives, propellants, and rockets was also developed by Rayonier from wood cellulose and was instrumental to the war effort. In 1943 alone they produced over 100,000 tonnes.

Their efforts to supply the allied nations with this material earned them a 48-star flag from the federal government. Rebranding began in the 1940s which saw reforested timber leases as “crops,”to be harvested by future generations.

KEEP WASHINGTON GREEN

These crops still faced an ancient threat. Throughout the Pacific Northwest, timber history has been dogged by the flickering presence of forest fires. Fires of 1847 and 1902 were devastating years. The 1902 fires destroyed logging camps, sawmills, railcars, and many homes.

Western Washington and Oregon did not fare well in 1902 – with many lives lost. Fire was not only a threat to homes, but also to livelihoods as it ravaged stands of trees. In response to the devastating Tillamook fires of the 1930s, Washington Governor Martin campaigned for citizen participation in stopping forest fires before they start.

Martin, the Weyerhaeuser Timber Company, and others developed the Keep Washington Green Association in 1940. Youth groups were an extremely popular part of this association. The Junior Forest Wardens run by the American Legion educated about fire prevention and reforestation techniques through tree planting.

During the late 1940s, forest fire prevention became important for another reason. As the war effort relied upon wood products for a variety of purpose, the possibility of an enemy started forest fire could have paramount effect. The US Forest Service teamed up with the Ad Council to educate the public about forest fires and August 9, 1944, the first Smokey the Bear ad was run. The tagline “Only you can prevent forest fires” wasn’t developed for a few more years, but Smokey was an instant success.

A FESTIVAL IS BORN

The first Forest Festival was held in May of 1945. As the forestry industry branched off into rebranding cut blocks into crops and board feet in terms of cellulose products, a celebration of timber and the future of the second growth was held, Mason County Forest Festival.

Forest Festival promoted fire protection and regeneration of the forests. In October of 1946, the Forest Festival was formally incorporated as a non-profit with the specific focus of: “the development of a public consciousness of the need for forest fire prevention and an appreciation of the growing forests of Washington.” The original sponsors included Simpson, the Shelton Chamber of Commerce, the US Forest Service, and Rayonier.

In many ways these projections have not come true as the timber industry has lost its economic relevance to the majority of Mason County citizens. The forest is now an important resource for tourism and recreation. The legacy of the lumbering past however, is still felt when you notice the street signs in downtown Shelton: Pine, Alder, Cedar, Grove, Poplar, Oak, Hazel, Walnut, Hemlock and West Birch Street to name a few.

When you and your family attend the living event that is the Forest Festival, reflect on the legacy. Cheer on Paul Bunyan and Babe and salute the Court as they pass by in the parade.

Forestry is an ever-present part of Shelton and Mason County and its history is worth remembering and celebrating.

photos of Mason Coiunty Firest Festival. Visit the Mason County Museum on Railroad Avenue in Shelton to view a full exhibit of 80 years of memories!

Historical

The Coopers FOCUSED ON FOREST FESTIVAL

Amy & Forrest Cooper are portrait artists. They capture memories for their clients and produce top-of-the-line artwork to adorn a home. A husband and wife creative team, they own and operate Cooper Studios in Shelton. Both holding BFA degrees in Visual Communications, their “focus” is on perfection and quality. Along with extensive experience they have a whole lot of talent!

Handmade in Shelton, the duo’s Fine Art Portraits are captured, retouched, printed and custom framed in their downtown studio giving them the control to create the high quality. Consider Cooper Studios for company headshots and commercial projects to take your business to the next level.

Forrest and Amy are ardent supports of community events like the Forest Festival and bring a level of professionalism to the event images. Cooper Studios is only the 4th photographer ever to create the official Queen of the Forest Portrait. It’s a tradition the Cooper’s are proud to be a part of and look forward to continuing for many years to come.

Thank you, Amy and Forrest for preserving our Forest Festival memories each year!

MADELINE TRIMBLE

Each year, Mason County students (all grades) have the opportunity to design the Mason County Forest Festival button. The theme and a template are provided to the students. Through an extensive process, the Forest Festival Committee votes on the entries.

The group narrows it down to the top three per grade category (K-5, 6-8, 9-12), then down to the top three based on the design that most represents the theme. The top three students from each category receives a cash prize, the grand prize winner receives a cash prize and this design is on the Forest Festival button that can be purchased throughout Mason County and during the Paul Bunyan Grand Parade.

The winner, Madeline Trimble, pictured above is in 10th grade at Cedar High School. Her button design will be available around Mason County, during the parade and at festival events.Thank you to all who participated and congratulations to all the winners.

TOP 10 FINALISTS:

Madeline Trimble, 10th, Cedar

Bella Buck, 9th, Mary M Knight

Carly Sweeten, 6th, OMS

Lexi Stamper, 10th, Mary M Knight

Emma Rae Stymacks, 6th, OMS

Tyler Newman, 12th, Mary M Knight

Kye Simpson, 6th, Southside

Emilia Nielsen, 6th, OMS

Rylee Sorg, 6th, Southside

Emmanuel Choi, 6th, OMS

Button winner: Madeline Trimble, 10th, Cedar

Kathleen Blanchette

29TH ANNUAL WOOD DUCK RACE

Kristmas Town Kiwanis is proud to bring the 29th Annual Kristmas Town Kiwanis Wood Duck Race to Forest Festival weekend. The race will begin 2 PM on Sunday, June 2 at the 7th Street bridge over Goldsborough Creek.

As the yellow ducks maneuver through the creek the fastest swimmers will appear within sight of the finish line at the 1st St bridge in about 10 minutes. As they cross the finish line volunteers will wrangle the most adept swimmers to determine prizes for the individuals that sponsored each wood duck. What is a wood duck you ask? Wood ducks are simply an economical and environmentally friendly alternative to rubber ducks.

The “ducks” are chunks of wood painted yellow and numbered to correspond to the sponsor’s name. In the event a wood duck slips by the finish line, a plastic duck is not littering the shoreline of Oakland Bay.

Kristmas Town Kiwanis volunteers will be offering the opportunity to sponsor a duck for $1.00. Look for button sales on the parade route and at the logging show or contact Mark Ziegler at (360) 490-2969.

Proceeds from the race support college scholarships and community programs sponsored by Kristmas Town Kiwanis.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY!

SMOKEY’S BIRTHDAY PARTY

FRIDAY MAY 31, 6-9PM

2024 is a special year for Mason County Forest Festival as well as Smoky Bear - both are celebrating their 80th! To mark the occasion, Festival organizers have brought a new and exciting event to Forest Festival Friday - Smokey's Birthday Party!

Although a new event to Forest Festival in 2024, birthday parties for Smokey have been happening all over the country since January of this year. Mostly hosted by National Parks and significant places that have tiees to Smokey, this event is well suited for a celebration at Mason County Forest Festival, an event that has held Smokey dear since he was a cub!

Not to mention that they practically grew up together! Friday's event will be an outdoor family-friendly celebration with a variety of fun events and treats to celebrate this special anniversary.

Gt you photos with Smokey! Yes, Smokey himself will be at the party! Meet and greet with the beloved forest mascot and get some keepsake memory photos to mark the occasion.

Along with other fun activities, crafts and games, make sure you test your aim and skill in axe throwing. PNW Axe Throwing will be there with their trailer, money raised from this activity will support Forest Festival.

Meet the festival's royalty and get a first look at their new float, a highlight of the parade.

Enjoy a variety of delicious food options from local vendor including special sweet treats to celebrate the birthday.

The event is hosted by KMAS, ensuring great music and a lively atmosphere throughout the celebration. It promises to be an evening filled with joy, laughter, and unforgettable moments for the whole family!

ROYALTY TEA PARTY

Queen of the Forest 2024, Queen Lindsey extends a royal invitation to all the young princes and princesses, and their guests, to join her for a Royal tea in the gardens of Shelton's historic Colonial House, July14, 11 AM. Thanks goes out to Green Diamond for supporting this fun and enchanted gathering - including games, music and tea & food - on their historical grounds. Celebrating four years, the Royalty Tea Party at the Colonial House is a great opportunity for the Court to interact with local families. Don't delay, this event always sells out!

Attendees dress up in all their finery (although its not required!) and enjoy a tea party with all the trippings of a storybook event including music, fine china (although mismatched) crustless sandwiches, and an assortment of cakes to finish off the party.

It's the perfect opportunity to make memories with the important people in your life in a setting filled with magic and heritage.

Each child will receive autograph cards from attending royalty, a tiara or crown, and other surprises. Tickets are $40 for adults and $25 for children aged 2-12. Don't wait, purchase tickets on the Mason County Forest Festival website today – this event does sell out!

EVENT SPONSORS:

Thank you to Maple Glen for catering sponsorship and Mason County Garbage, Alderbrook Golf Course, Mason Health, Neil’s Pharmacy and the Shelton Family YMCA for your support!

FOREST FESTIVAL'S DEEP ROOTS A TRIBUTE TO FOUNDER, HARRY CLARK

Copied with permission from the Simpson Lookout (1952)

When the bands strike out and the parades begin to move in the seventh annual Mason County Forest Festival next month, one man watching the proceedings with pride in his heart will be Harry Clark of Woodfiber.

Harry Clark--more than any other single individual-was responsible for starting the Forest Festival. Harry never claimed honors for creating the big show which is built around the idea of protection of the forests from fire, but it is wellknown by those who worked with him in the first years of the festival, that Harry was the man who had the idea out of which has grown a county-wide demonstration of forest protection which is now nationally famous.

For thirteen years Harry was in the State and Federal Forests Service. He ran fire crews for the United States Forest Service in Idaho for three years. At one time he was associated with George Frisk, foreman of the McCleary dragsaw unit in Shelton Bay, as assistant district forest warden in Stevens County. Frisk was at that time district forest warden. Frisk and Clark were assigned to Shelton in 1942, with Clark still assistant to Frisk.

During his first year in Shelton, 1942, Harry organized a movement among boys which went far toward stopping careless fire practices. He considered the idea of organizing Junior Forest Wardens. He called at all the schools in Mason County and gave talks on fire prevention, impressing upon young lads the need of protecting timber which would someday

provide them with jobs. He worked up courses for the boys to study in school. He suggested a uniform so simple and inexpensive that every Junior Forest Warden could have one. This was simply a gray sweat shirt with a fir tree stenciled on the breast under the words "Junior Forest Warden" and a red hat.

At the height of this program, 700 boys in Mason County schools were wearing the sweat shirts and hats of Junior Forest Wardens. The schools were devoting an hour weekly to meetings of the boys at which forest practices were discussed. The State Division of Forestry, recognizing the good work Harry Clark had done in Mason County, named him school work director for Western Washington.

With the assistance which he obtained from private companies, cities and counties, Harry Clark succeeded in organizing young Forest Warden groups in several counties. The second growth "practice fields" which he established in a number of communities were forerunners of the small tree farms and student forests which are being continued in many Western Washington high schools today.

The good work of Harry Clark through 1942 and 1943 became a war-time casualty. As a part of curtailments in the interest of national defense, the State Forestry Division discontinued its work among the schools and the program withered through lack of individual leadership.

In 1944, Harry Clark returned to Shelton as district forest warden. That year, Mason County became the first branch of the new KEEP WASHINGTON GREEN program sponsored by American Legion Posts of Washington. Harry Clark was the first chairman of that committee.

He was also the Legion's first department forester, assigned to directing work done by the Legion in conservation fields. Harry explains he got the idea for a Mason County Forest Festival one day while driving to a KEEP WASHINGTON GREEN meeting. "I realized that in Mason County we had all that is fine in life," Harry told Lookout. "We had the finest of lands for raising young forests, we had the mountains and the lakes and the salt waters, we had everything that leads to a complete and happy life."

All of this was centered in our forests in both the old growth and the second growth. Harry's idea of a celebration built around the forests was heard with interest by the members of

Harry Clark of Woodfiber

the Mason County Keep Green Committee, but only a few favored undertaking the event in 1945, when our country was still at war. Harry recalls the support given his position of starting a Festival by Oscar Levin, Maurice Needham and Reggie Sykes. These four men were the key officers in the opening year of the Festival.

Harry Clark wrote the first pageant, "Voice of the Spirits," which was presented in the old Lincoln Gym under direction of Mrs. Ollie Cleveland. The first Festival of 1945 was presented in April, a month earlier than the present Festival. This initial undertaking seems small in comparison with the show which will be offered through four days, May 10 to 13,1952, but it was the beginning which laid a firm foundation for the years to follow.

The Shelton Chamber of Commerce undertook sponsorship of the Festival in 1945-46 and out of this support grew the non-profit Mason County Forest Festival Association, Inc.

Harry Clark's idea has given Shelton and Mason County the unique position of being one of the few communities anywhere which combine the fun of celebration with the purpose of conserving a valuable natural resource - the forests. As we celebrate 80 years of this legacy, we owe our appreciation to Harry Clark and his vision.

MORE LOCAL FESTIVALS CELEBRATE COMMUNITY.

Rachel Hansen | Editor

Forest Festival represents a long tradition in Mason County and there's a reason its 80 years strong. Thank you for attending this favorite community event -- here are a few more to add to your calendar! Visit explorehoodcanal.com for details.

Tour de Mason Bike Ride

June 8, Shelton, WA

Fjordin Crossin Paddle the Canal

June 22– Hoodsport, WA

MotoAmerica SuperBikes Races

June 28-30, Shelton, WA

Cruisin' Through Time Car Show

June 30, Shelton

Tahuya Day Celebration

July 6 – Tahuya, WA

Bluegrass From the Forest

July 12-14, Shelton, WA

Royalty Tea with Forest Festival Court

July 14, Shelton, WA

Saltwater Songwriters Festival

July 17-21, Union. WA

Allyn Days

July 19-21, Allyn, WA

Expo & Bite of Mason County Street Fair

July 19, Shelton, WA

Grapeview Art & Water Festival

July 27, Grapeview, WA

Shelton's Art Walk

July 27, Shelton, WA

Hoodstock Music Festival

August 16, Union, WA

8th Annual Yesteryear Car Show

August 17, Shelton, WA

OysterFest

October 4-6, Shelton, WA

Christmastown Festivities

December, Shelton, WA

Blurgrass from the Forest attract National Acts and Fjordin Crossin (below) hosts a Hood Canal race!

George Stenberg photo