Fjord Summer 2022

Rachel Hansen | editor

Sometimes if I squint my eyes just right things are almost back to normal. But it seems that every time we just feel like we've grasped control – something else comes up. Despite this lingering uncertainty, so many people are working hard to do great and positive things in our communities. Some things are small, like smiling even if a face is unfamiliar, other things are huge – but all are important. The Fjord can communicate those important things.

We are excited about what the future holds for Tracing the Fjord. Now entering our fifth year there are some big changes. First, our online readers have finally exceeded the print run of 10,000. That was cool to see. Second, in March, we purchased the bank in Hoodsport and we're transforming it into a brick and mortar (well, concrete block actually) Tracing the Fjord. We have so many ideas, and much will depend on the permitting process, but in short, it will be a community gathering place to share more stories – and oysters.

Third, and the biggest news of all, Jeff Slakey has joined the team at the Fjord. For the last 16 years Jeff has been a positive force in promoting Mason County with his broadcast position at IFiber KMAS.

He is often an integral part of many local events acting as announcer or emcee and has been affectionately dubbed the "Voice of Mason County." We are excited that Jeff will still be out in the field sourcing stories and covering all the events, activities and personalities around our beautiful area – on behalf of The Fjord.

Already, Jeff has ridden in a Ferris Wheel with the queen; hosted a parade, raced karts at the ridge, completed the Tour De Mason Bike Ride, interviewed our famous outdoor photographer, sampled glam-picnics in Union; and even met a Sasquatch. That was just the first couple weeks. Welcome aboard, Jeff, we can't wait to see what the future holds!

As part of our new direction to better connect communities, in July Tracing the Fjord will launch a website – you guessed it – tracingthefjord.com.

This new website will allow the magazine to post video, audio and links to stories as they happen. Along with audio and video recordings, this will add to the print magazine, not replace it. The site will include a central landing page to share news and events. Each community – Shelton, Belfair, Brinnon, Union, Hoodsport, Quilcene, Allyn & Grapeview – will host a unique home page with updates including weather, tides, local hikes, walks and history. With five years of gathering stories, The Fjord has plenty of community tales to curate.

The goal of this site is to connect our communities from within as well as with each other. There are so many great things happening around the area, and, if the last two years of Covid left us with any lesson, it's how important community is.

In other news, congratulations to Fjordin Crossin' for a triumphant although drenched return. Forest Festival was also a fantastic event this year and dodged most of the rain. The carnival, despite it's unconventional location and downpours, had record revenues. A huge round of applause to the Ridge Motorsports and their talented staff – Motorama was such an undertaking - and you nailed it! In Union, Hoodstock is well on it's way to be being a great event, thanks to a team of dedicated volunteers who seriously care about their community.

In July we welcome two huge events. Jeff Slakey and Tracing the Fjord will be on site at Allyn Days, Sunday, July 17, hosting the amateur shucking competition. Anyone can enter so sharpen your shucking skills and join in!

Also in July, 29-31, check out Bluegrass from the Forest. This event includes free kids music workshops, camping on site, and nationally acclaimed musicians. A three day pass costs just $45. Keep your eye out for the Xinh's "Curry & Clams" dinner tickets when they go on sale. Space is limited and we sold out last year.

So yes, things are still a little off in the world, but we're working hard at The Fjord to make it as easy as possible to navigate the new normal. Thanks for your support!