Message from the Goo

Jerry Obendorf GRAND OLD OYSTER (GOO)

Welcome to the 43rd episode of the “West Coast Oyster Shucking Championship and Washington State Seafood Festival”. That’s the official title so you can understand why we just call it OYSTERFEST.

Thank you for attending and supporting the dozens of local non-profit groups who do good works in the community, the region, and internationally.

The basic tenants of OysterFest have always been:

1. To be a fun, family event, sponsored by SKOOKUM ROTARY and supported by a variety of Service Clubs and organizations throughout Mason County.

2. To be a profitable event for charity.

3. To increase the awareness of the excellent seafood resource in Mason County, thereby promoting the shellfish industry.

4. To increase the awareness of Mason County by increasing tourism to the area.

5. To expand community service activities in the area from the profits of OysterFest.

Keep that in mind as you sample your way through OysterFest and the dozens of unique foods. You are helping the Boy Scouts, youth groups, Kiwanis and other civic groups, tribal groups, sororities, senior activities, scholarship funds and others. That might help justify just one more bite. All proceeds go to charitable causes.

Also for your enjoyment are several topical educational booths and displays, kids activities, beer garden, wine tasting and of course the Oyster Shucking Contest.

Admission is $15 for adults. Parking is free and Sunday is family day with reduced admission charge. Shuttle bus service is available. If you have questions, just ask any Skookum Rotarian in the blue polo shirt.

Thank you for coming. Your support is appreciated.