bight | april 2012

April 2012 Shelton Mason County Chamber 1 1 Shelton Mason County Chamber April 2012

SHELTONMASONCOUNTY

April 2012

In ThE loopTraVelers days

Follow the traveler for adventure! – 6

release your inner... or ouTer dragon!Fair & Rodeo Fundraiser, Festival

and Fairgrounds Launch Event Invitation – 12

seeing green & celebraTing St. Patrick’s Day Auction wrap up – 16

Paul bunyan - caughT in The bighT! Discover iconic local mascots– 17

April 2012 Shelton Mason County Chamber 2April 2012 Shelton Mason County Chamber 3

SHELTONMASONCOUNTY For those of you who missed our Annual Auction on March 17th you missed a good one! For those of you who attended…thank you for supporting our Chamber! I would like to express my gratitude and thanks to Lisa Woodward for stepping up and chairing this year’s event and making it a success. Without the dedication of people such as Lisa and her committee our Chamber would not be where it is today. Thank you Lisa!

Message from Chamber president

Board of Trustees

PresidentDrew MacEwenFalcon Financial, inc.

Past Presidentpatti Case

green diamond resource company

Vice President of MarketingKathryn Kamin

hood canal communications

Vice President of Member servicesMelanie Bakala

state Farm insurance

Treasurerrick Verbarendse

alderbrook golf & yacht club

steve andrewski herb baze

black star, The strip steakhouseKevin cronquist

Prudential nW real estateMike gango bob houle

houle & goodell attorneys, llcPatti Tupper

Tupper’s Floor coverings & interiors

Mission StatementTo encourage and maintain a vibrant business community, promote tourism and facilitate economic development.

Produced by image in action design and the Shelton Mason County Chamber of Commerce as a benefit to Members and the community. all rights reserved. For contribution guidelines and advertising call (360) 427-5599.

Shelton Mason County Chamber of Commercebox 2389 |215 W railroad avenueshelton, Wa 98584426-2021 • (800) 576-2021• FaX 426-8678

www.sheltonchamber.org

As we move forward our next major event on the calendar is our annual Busi-ness Expo/Bite of Shelton in May. If you have never had a business display booth at the Expo let me strongly en-courage you to do so. This is a very well attended event and gives your business great exposure to the Com-munity, not just Chamber members. I know my firm has seen new clients as a result of the Expo.

And with that, the above two paragraphs bring me to my main point. As with any organization, mem-bers occasionally leave the Chamber. In speaking with a few of those last year I saw an underlying theme…”my business wasn’t getting any

business from the Cham-ber.” I am a big believer in letting people save face so I would just listen. But it struck me when I would hear such a comment as in each of the ones who sighted that I had not seen at a single Cham-ber function in the past year.

Contrast that with the people we regularly see at Chamber functions… more times than not their business is on the move. Is that all attributable to being a Chamber member? No, but it illustrates that the ones that are the “movers and shakers” are the ones that see growth because they are regularly a part of the broader community.

At our Gala in January, I challenged each us to all grow our business so that we would have to hire one additional person in our business. The year is a quarter of the way over… how are you doing? Leading by example is the key, and so to be fair I see my own business accom-plishing this in the fourth quarter of the year.

As always, it is a pleasure and honor to serve as your Chamber President. Please do not hesitate to contact me if there is anything I or the Chamber can do to assist you and your business growth.

Very Truly Yours,Drew MacEwen

GooGlE offErinG frEE wEBSiTES for SMAll BuSinESSES Google is launching a free program to help the 55 percent of small businesses in Washington that do not have a website build an online presence. For the next year, as part of Washington Get Your Business Online, small businesses can go to http://www.washingtongetonline.com/ to get a free website – as well as free tools, training and resources.

“The perception that getting online is complex, costly and time-consuming has prevented many Washington small businesses from taking the first step,” said Scott Levitan, director of small business engagement at Google. “This program makes it fast, easy and free for businesses to get online.”

Businesses also may sign up in person from 7:30 AM to 5:30 PM March 22 and 23 at Bell Harbor Conference Center, 2211 Alaskan Way, Pier 66, Seattle. Visit www.washingtongetonline.com for more information.

April 2012 Shelton Mason County Chamber 2April 2012 Shelton Mason County Chamber 3 3 Shelton Mason County Chamber April 2012

Message from Chamber Executive Director

bight [bīt] n. 1. A loop in a rope or cable. In logging referred to cable looped around a log when it was moved.

2. A bend or curve. A wide bay formed by such a bend or curve.

SHELTONMASONCOUNTY

Newest Members!Acupuncture Solutions, inc.

1635 olympic hwy n/Po box 2540shelton, Wa 98584

(360) [email protected]

acupuncturesoluntionsinc.com

Cut rate Auto parts128 s First st

shelton, Wa 98584(360) 426-2800

[email protected]

Automobile Maintenance & Repair

Michael’s Meats1729 olympic hwy n

shelton, Wa 98584(360) 426-1659

[email protected]

Butcher/Cured Meats

Skipworth’s, llC1603 olympic hwy n

shelton, Wa 98584(360) 426-0875

[email protected]

Equipment Supplies/Retail

Shelton Athletic Club707 s First st/Po box 1658

shelton, Wa 98584(360) [email protected]

sheltonathleticclub.comHealth & Fitness

Skokomish indian Tribal Enterprises (SiTE)

19330 n us hwy 101skokomish, Wa 98584

(360) 877-2024Business Association

new members continued on page 5

Spring in Mason County. It’s a beautiful, yet strange experience. Today, there is glorious sunshine which shows off all the greenery made fresh and clean from yesterday’s rainstorm. It makes me glad to live in the Pacific Northwest.

And on the Olympic Peninsula. And in Western Washington… which leads into our Tourism Commit-tee, charged with promot-ing Mason County to the state, and world, at large. As many of you are aware, tourism funding at the state level was cut in the last budget session, leaving us to fend for ourselves.

While it is a terrible thing to have funding cut, as with many tragedies, there is some greater good to come from it. The largest good is in the new spirit of col-laboration. Where many counties, cities and regional areas once competed for tourists; now we see many sharing and cross-selling what our neighbors have to offer. It’s a wonderful thing to see, and I think we will all benefit from it.

Our Auction was a great event, I am so thankful to the committee members who shared their time to make it a success. From procuring some incredible items, creating the adver-tisements and decorating for the night of- they did a wonderful job! I appreciate you all: Steve Andrewski, Libby Avery, Melanie Bakala, Deidre Eaton, Brandy Faught, Debbie McHargue, Carrie Lem-mon, Jan Lovig, Danielle May, Jennifer Owens, Mike Thompson, Allison Wagner and our Auction Chair, Lisa Woodard.

I hope you’ll join us for our annual State of the Com-munity dinner meeting on Thursday, April 19, 6:00-8:00 PM at the Pavilion, sponsored by Shelton Life. We’ll hear from City of Shelton Mayor Gary Cronce, Mason County Commissioner Lynda Ring Erickson and Port of Shelton Commissioner Dick Taylor on the past year’s achievements and what is next for each. This com-munity conversation is a great way to learn what is happening in our region. If there is just one formal din-ner meeting you attend each year to get up to date on our community, this is it.

Since Spring has sprung, our Beautification Committee is hard at work. Through this Chamber committee’s coordination, the business community and individual sponsors have shared the costs of the install and upkeep of the 75 flower bas-kets, 100 street banners and 65 Christmas decoration sites. This committee does so much to make Shelton a more beautiful and inviting place.

Also, with spring comes our annual Business Expo and Bite of Shelton. This com-mittee has been meeting for a month to make this year’s event grander and better than ever. Last year, 67 businesses and restaurants gathered under one roof to make our largest event

yet. If you are interested in participating, please sign up now by calling the Chamber office or at sheltonchamber.org/expo. Space is limited and last year we had to turn businesses away.

To all of my committee members: I appreciate all of your hard work. I know that you have full time jobs. Your dedication to our com-munity by gladly volunteer-ing your time and talents just means so much to me. We are truly a better (and more beautiful) place to live, work and play because of you.

Heidi McCutcheonExecutive Director

We’re all getting pretty used to the word “bight,” but just in case... here’s what it means!


Mason County puD 3 Awards Students for Electricity-related projects at Skookum rotary’s March 17 Science fairJoel Myer Mason County PUD No. 3

Three local students received trophies and cash awards from Mason County PUD No. 3 for their electricity-related projects at Skookum Rotary’s March 17, 2012 Mason County Sci-ence Fair. The $25 first place award went to Stephen Lindahl (8th Grade, Mason County Chris-tian School) for his project on wind power. The $15 second place award went to Kendru DiMalanta (8th Grade, Mason County Christian School) for his project on a Kelvin hydro-electricity generator.

The $10 third place award went to Maurice Castro (4th Grade, Mountain View Elementary School) for his project on electromagnetism. PUD 3 is pleased to reward outstanding students in Mason County who are com-mitted to learning about the important role that electricity plays in our daily lives.

The PUD is especially pleased that Skookum Rotary has taken a leadership role in encouraging local scholars in their scientific pursuits. (L-R Linda Gott, PUD 3 commission chair; Kendru DiMalanta;

Marice Castro; Stephen Lindahl)

olympic national park translates to Visitors, Money and JobsBarb Maynes, Olympic National Park A new National Park Service (NPS) report shows that more than 2,844,500 visitors in 2010 spent $103 million in Olympic National Park and in communities near the park. That spending supported nearly 1,500 jobs.

“Our neighbors in our local communities understand the economic benefits of national parks,” said Olympic National Park Superintendent Karen Gustin. “Olympic National Park is one of the drivers of the area economy when park visitors stay in hotels, dine in restaurants and purchase items from our local stores.”

Most of the spending/jobs are related to lodging, food, and beverage service (52 percent) followed by other retail (29 percent), entertainment/amuse-ments (10 percent), gas and local transportation (7 percent) and groceries (2 percent).

The figures are based on $12 billion of direct spending by 281 million visitors in 394 na-

tional parks and nearby com-munities and are included in an annual, peer-reviewed, visitor spending analysis conducted by Dr. Daniel Stynes of Michigan State University for the National Park Service. Across the U.S, local visitor spending added a total of $31 billion to the national economy and sup-ported more than 258,000 jobs, an increase of $689 million and 11,500 jobs over 2009.

The report includes informa-tion for visitor spending at individual parks and by state. For more on how the NPS is working within Washington, go to www.nps.gov/wash-ington.

SHELTON OLD TIME FIDDLERS FEST Featuring State & National Champion Fiddlers

SHELTON HIGH SCHOOL AUDITORIUM – APRIL 6-7, 2012

PERFORMANCES Friday Evening, April 6th ................... 6:30-9:00 p.m. Saturday Matinee, April 7th ................ 1:30-4:00 p.m. Saturday Evening, April 7th ............... 6:30-9:00 p.m.

ADMISSION Pre Sale At Door Adults ................................... $10 ......................... $12 Three Show Package ............ $25 ......................... $30 Family Package First Child (under 18) ..... $ 8 ......................... $10 Each Additional Child .... $ 5 .......................... $ 5

FAMILY SPAGHETTI DINNER Saturday, April 7th, 4:30-6:30 p.m., Shelton High School SUB ........................................................... $ 5

The Shelton Old Time Fiddlers Fest is presented by and is a benefit for SOCK (Save Our County’s Kids) youth programs. Produced by the Washington Old Time Fiddlers Association.

For the location of ticket outlets: call (360) 432-0815; e-mail [email protected]. To purchase tickets on line, go to http://www.sheltonfiddlefest.com.


Citizens Committee Vacancies- 2012 SrfB process Heidi Huber, Hood Canal Habitat Programs Coordinator

The Hood Canal Coordinating Coun-cil is responsible for coordinating local salmon habitat recovery throughout Hood Canal and Eastern Strait of Juan de Fuca.

Membership vacancies exist on our citi-zens project review committee for East Jefferson County and Clallam County east of and including the Dungeness Watershed. The citizens committee is responsible for ranking a final list of proposed habitat projects to ensure they represent our community’s values. The citizens committee is supported by a technical advisory group that applies science-based criteria to develop a pre-liminary list of projects.

Interested citizens should have some knowledge of salmon recovery issues and area watersheds, the ability to respect diverse viewpoints, and bring a “big picture” approach.

Responsibilities include attending proj-ect site visits May 7th and 9th, review-ing project applications (May and June), and participating in a final ranking meeting on July 24th. Interested candidates should provide a resume and letter of interest to Heidi Huber [email protected] no later than March 12. Please email or call (360) 271-7292 with any questions.

puD 3’s nEw Johns prairie operations Center PUD 3 is pleased to announce that April 2 will be the first official day of busi-ness at the new operations center at 2621 E Johns Prairie Road.

The energy efficient facility provides for improved customer service; more efficient management of utility functions; lower cost of operations over the long term; and additional office space that will allow for continued customer-centered service for the next 50 years or longer. To enhance customer convenience PUD 3 has a pay center in downtown Shelton at 310 W. Cota Street. The changes will not affect services available at PUD 3’s Belfair office.

During the month of March, PUD 3 Departments such as engineering, energy conservation, and telecommunications will be moving to the new facility.

Prior to April 2, customers may want to contact the PUD to coordinate business they may have with staff. A public open house wil be scheduled for a later date!

Big river Cleaning19330 n us hwy 101skokomish, Wa 98584


Janitorial

Big river landscaping19330 n us hwy 101skokomish, Wa 98584


Landscaping

Skokomish park at lake Cushman



www.skokomishpark.comLodging/Accomodations

The waterfront at potlatch



thewaterfrontatpotlatch.comLodging/Accomodations

Twin Totems Store19390 n us hwy 101skokomish, Wa 98584

(360) 427-9099Gas Station/Convenience Store

renee E. Stein, Attorney at law

Po box 146union, Wa 98592(360) 898-9245

[email protected]

Attorney

Newest Members Continued!

Know someone else who should join the chamber? Please call

(360) 426-2021 or email [email protected].

PUD 3’s NEW Johns Prairie Operations Center


Traveler Days in union Showcases local Artists at Alderbrook resortBy James John Bell | Smart Meme Studios

When the snow starts to melt on Mount Washington, it is said that “the Traveler” emerges – a hooded figure with walking staff. You can see this light-and-shadow effect on the mountain for yourself during the annual Traveler Days celebration in Union. Sponsored by the Union Tourism Association (UTA), the four weeks of festivities focus on local arts, wineries, cuisine and the breathtaking views from the south shore of Hood Canal.

Traveler Days runs from Earth Day weekend and continues through Mother’s Day (April 22 - May 13). The showcase event is the local artist exhibition at Alderbrook Resort & Spa on Saturday, May 12 beginning at noon. In addition to the exhibition, the winners of the People’s Choice Award will be put on display at the State Capitol by Lt. Governor and Mrs. Brad Owen to showcase the works of the artists through the Washington State Arts Council.

The Traveler in Hood Canal lore and Global legends

The Traveler is visible for a few months beginning around the spring equinox (March 20th) when the winter build up of snow in the Olympic Mountains has begun to melt exposing a massive dark humanoid figure on the mountain’s face.

There are a variety local myths and legends retold through the generations woven about The Traveler’s return by both the native and western populations living on the Olympic Peninsula. Over the decades this shadowy silhouette of a figure with a walking staff has gained different names from the non-natives who moved into this region – “wanderer”, “traveler”, and “man of the mountain”.

Staff at the Mason County Historical Society Museum said that the Traveler was likely used by pioneers and native com-munities to help determine the best time to begin spring planting. When the ‘hat’ or ‘hood’ of the Traveler is fully visible that is the time when it is safe to plant.

The Union Tourism Association is com-prised of business owners and association members who live, work and play in the town of Union, Washington, on the South Shore of Hood Canal. For more detailed information about Traveler’s Days, other area events and directions, please go to www.visitunion.com. Premier sponsors of the 2012 Traveler Days are Lucky Dog Casino, Alderbrook Resort, Hood Canal Communications and ROXY 94.5 FM.


April eVenTsApril 6

11:30 aM - 1:00 PM

Business Builder workshop: retirement planning

with Melanie bakala, state Farm insurancegrove street brewhouse

233 s First st, shelton

April 115:30 PM - 7:00 PM

Business After Hours Maple glen senior living

1700 n 13th loop rd, shelton

April 196:00 - 8:00 PM

Month Membership Meeting: State of the Community

sponsored by shelton life (logo attached)The Pavilion at sentry Park190 W sentry dr, shelton

April 23

5:30 PM

oriEnT-ation“Experience China”

informational sessioncolonial house, 222 W Pine st, shelton

Keep up to date on

Chamber news and events!Text CHAMBErnEwS to 42828

to join our email list message and data rates may apply.

SHELTONMASONCOUNTY

CovEr iMAGE

pier peer - night Exploration of puget SoundBy People for Puget Sound at the Hood Canal Marina in UnionSaturday, April 21, 8:00-10:00 PMNature interpreters help identify some of the 10,000 different species inhabiting the Hood Canal.

Earth Day CelebrationAt Robin Hood Restaurant with High Water FarmsSunday, April 22, 2:00-6:00 PMPlant seeds, walk the garden, enjoy acous-tic guitar, and celebrate their farm-to-plate program.

our Children’s Voices Children’s and Adult Choir ConcertBy Anna’s Bay Center for Music Saturday April 21, 7:30 PM at Harmony Hill Retreat CenterSunday April 22, 4:00 PM at St. Edward’s Catholic Church in Shelton

Cinco de Mayo Celebration2 Margaritas Family Mexican RestaurantSunday, May 5, all day Celebrate Cinco de Mayo with waterfront dining and authentic Mexican food!

Hama Hama oyster rama At Hama Hama SeafoodSaturday, May 5, 11:00 AM – 6:00 PMAttend the free Oyster School, join Shuckathalon! and hear music by Nettle Honey.

Traveler Days - Artist ShowcaseBy the UTA at Alderbrook Resort, Mt. Washington RoomSaturday, May 12, 12:00-4:00 PMLocal Art Exhibition at Alderbrook Resort

lady Alderbrook narrated Tour By the UTA at Alderbrook Dock, $20, 2:30-5:00 PMLocal author and historian Mike Fredson leads this narrated cruise on Hood Canal.

photography Exhibition & union farmer’s MarketAt the McReavy House Community Cen-ter | Saturday, May 12, 2:00-6:00 PMPhotography Exhibition by Ed Binder.union City Jazz At Robin Hood Restaurant & Pub with Anna’s Bay Center for MusicSaturday, May 12, 7:00-10:00 PMThis Jazz quartet features New York jazz legend and local talent to enrich local music education.

Mother’s Day ActivitiesSunday, May 138:00 AM – 8:00 PM at Lucky Dog Casino $5 Lucky Bucks for women8:00 AM – 2:00 PM Brunch at Alderbrook Resort Restaurant9:00 AM – 2:00 PM Brunch at Robin Hood Restaurant 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM Brunch at Lucky Dog Casino11:00 AM – 2:00 PM Brunch at Alderbrook Golf & Yacht Club

Special Deals from Earth Day to Mother’s Day

Wine Tasting and Spring Cleaning SaleAt Cameo Boutique & Wine ShopEvery weekend Earth Day through Moth-er’s Day. Free wine tasting and our special in-house Spring Cleaning Sale. Join us to celebrate their 29th Anniversary Open House the weekend of April 27-29.

Alderbrook Resort and Robin Hood Village have put together special Traveler Days Lodging Packages, see their websites for details. Poppi Photography offers 20%

off family portrait sitting fees and orders. $10 credit on your next HCC bill by signing up for online paperless billing and automatic check deduction. Help clean up Hood Canal with free litter bags available at their Union office.

TrAVElEr DAyS 2012 SCHEDulE:


Weaving a strong business foundation for the

Squaxin Island Tribe’s Future

Chamber leads Group still accepting participantsSign up now! The Chamber is hosting two Leads Groups to provide net-working opportunities for our Members. One group meets the second and fourth Tues-days at 7:30 AM at the Pine Tree Restaurant. The other

Step up and Speak out: polishing your presentation Skills Stephanie Rowland, Top Dog Etiquette

Most people would rather sit in traffic or go to the dentist than give a public presentation. If this is you, let’s talk. In business, whether you are stating your case to your boss for a raise or speaking in front of the entire staff, it is important to stand up and be heard with style and grace. I’ve discovered a few secrets to establishing that all-important confidence, and I’d like to share them with you. Get ready to step up and speak out!Here’s a few things to keep in mind before putting your speech to paper:

If possible, visit the actual room where you will be present-ing. Stand on the stage, feel the room. Understand fully the use of a microphone. Will it be clipped to your lapel, or will you be standing behind a podium with a microphone? Or, will you have to hold it in hand. If it is a lapel mic, you will have to have a place to put the battery pack, say in a pocket or clipped to your pants or skirt. Women – do not wear a dress without a jacket with a pocket or a skirt where you can clip the microphone. Sometime ask me about using duct tape to fasten my battery pack. Not pretty.

Know who will be there. Often speakers can be thrown by a VIP who shows up or a guest that they were not expecting.

Stephanie rowland Horton is owner of Top dog etiquette and is the

editor of shelton life and north Mason life. Find ou

more tips at www.topdogetiquette.com.

If you are using audio/visual equipment, practice with the exact form you will be using. Please do not read from a Power Point presentation. A/V should enhance your talk; it is not meant to be a script. If you have note cards, make sure to put large page numbers on the top – just in case you drop them.Wear comfortable shoes and light clothing. There may be warm lighting.

Do not eat a heavy meal or drink carbonated beverages before your talk!

Avoid jokes; instead, rely on your warm personality. Look people in the eye and smile as you talk. Choose a few people to look at, then scan over the rest of the room looking at their foreheads. Speak slowly and clearly.

Very important: stick to your time limit, and stay on topic.

One thing I do to calm myself is to introduce myself to the people who are sitting at the back of the room. I tell them I am go-ing to be looking at them to make sure the audience can hear me, and ask them to laugh at my jokes! I always find a kind and willing group, and it helps my comfort level every time. It’s like talking to friends.

Remember, everyone is rooting for you.

If they weren’t interested in what you were going to say, they probably wouldn’t be there. The best gift you can give them is clearly presented information and, if appropriate, time for questions and answers.

group meets the second and fourth Wednesdays at 11:30 AM at Steven’s On Railroad.

Leads Groups will only be open to Chamber members in good standing for an annual

cost of $80. Space is lim-ited and once your category is taken, this opportunity will no longer be available to you! For additional details including complete rules, a category list and an application to reserve

your place within this excit-ing new venture, visit www.sheltonchamber.org/leads or contact the Chamber Office.


prESiDEnT’S CirClE

platinum Members

Gold Memberscommunity Financial center

generation d computers & Technologyheritage bank

KMas 1030 aMrichard c. downing, dds

West coast bank

Silver Membersharmony hill retreat center

american Family insurance, berti s. brodskya lighthouse on hammersley bed & breakfast

pomegranate Center comes to Shelton

The Pomegranate Center is a non-profit organization based in Issaquah who has done projects worldwide to build places, community, and leaders. Pomegranate Center has developed an effective model for helping communities prepare for the future using collective creativity, meaningful engagement and powerful collaboration. The goal of this organization is to bring people together to build better com-munities throughout the US and around the globe.

Their intention is to help us with new and fresh ideas for Mason County and helping us bring our community together by building a more beautiful place.

We are excited to announce the Pomegranate Center will be visit-ing Mason County at 5:30 PM on Tuesday, April 24 at the Colonial House. Please join us at this public forum to learn more about what they do and what that means to Mason County at large. Their unique style of community-build-ing combines a creative approach with effective community plan-ning, broad public participation, hands-on learning and leadership development.

Four other local projects that the Pomegranate Center is facilitating this year are the Northeast Seattle Hunter Farm Gathering Place (converting a private Christmas tree lot into community space for the non-holiday season), Mercer Island Library Early Learning Garden (turning a generic green space surrounding the library into a unique place of discovery for children and parents), Sumner Mainstreet Alley Project (trans-forming an urban alleyway into a friendly space for personal enjoyment and small celebrations) and Kirkland 132nd Square Park Gathering Space (adding shelters and a gathering circle to a well-beloved park).

During the Pomegranate Cen-ter’s 20 plus years in community development they have built proven strategies that allow people with diverging opinions to work together and find practical solutions with broad community support. They know that results can happen quickly, effectively and include many voices.

As with anything, you must work hard to have success and the same applies to becoming a community builder; it doesn’t happen automati-cally. The good news is that almost everything we do gives us an op-portunity to engage in community-minded behavior. With practice, you’ll find it becomes an increas-ingly large part of your everyday life. We often hear that community process doesn’t work because people don’t have the time, energy or inter-est to participate.

At Pomegranate Center, it isn’t uncommon for our community engagement processes to include hundreds of people, contributing nearly 1000 hours of their time to planning for the future of their community.

People are hungry to partici-pate – under the right conditions. Pomegranate Center is expert at creating those conditions. We hope you’ll join the Shelton Mason County Chamber of Commerce and the Pomegranate Center as we brainstorm ideas, places and ways to strengthen our community.

The pomegranate Center:

Builds PlacesWe work with communities to imagine, plan and create shared public places designed to encourage social interaction and to build a local sense of identity.Builds CommunityPeople are hungry to participate – under the right conditions. Pomegranate Center is expert at creating those conditions.Builds LeadersWe train community members and civic leaders to inspire and engage others to build stronger, healthier, more connected communi-ties.


The Housing Affordability index By Andy Conklin | Windermere/Himlie, Inc.

The simple definition of the Housing Affordability Index is “How the Median Family Income of an area compares with the Median priced home in the same area.”

If the median family income and the median sale price are in “Balance” the index for that area would be equal to 100.0. If the median family income can only support half of the median sale price, the Index would be at 50.0.

At the end of 2011, The Housing Affordability Index for Mason County, accord-ing to the Washington Center for Real Estate Research, was

217.6. This means that the median family income can sup-port over TWO TIMES the median price of a home right now. In comparison, year end 2007 the index was at 112.00

There are a number of other factors that come into play here and can’t be left out of the equation. With the number of bank owned sales that have been taking place in Mason County over the last couple of years, (remember my last article when I said that almost 38% of all of the sales in our county were bank owned) the median sale price might be artificially low right now.

When we compare Mason County with the other counties in the Puget Sound/Hood Canal region the affordability index looks like this:

Jefferson 167.9King 145.2Kitsap 170.9MASON 217.6Pierce 201.9Snohomish 179.3Thurston 181.6

Another major contributor to the index is the interest rate paid on mortgages. I just closed a sale where the interest rate on a 30-year fixed mort-gage was 3.875%. If the inter-est rates were to go “all of the way” back up to 5.00%, that

would cause our affordability index to fall by 18% to 178.4.What does this all mean to me? It means that right now houses are more affordable than they have been for a very long time, and that Mason County is the best place to be investing in Real Estate in the entire Puget Sound Region. It won’t take much of an adjust-ment in either the median price or interest rates to drasti-cally affect the affordability.

Just as when the market was skyrocketing, we all said that this couldn’t go on forever, the same is true right now. Real Estate will not remain this af-fordable forever.

liVE, worK AnD plAyDo you love where you, LIVE, WORK, and PLAY? Vote for Mason County’s fabulous, unique businesses as King 5’s Best Northwest Escapes. Vote on or before April 15 at nwes-capes.king5.com.

Want to help make Mason County a more beautiful place to LIVE? The annual fund-raising campaign for the 75 summer flower baskets and 65 Christmas decoration sites, is underway. For more informa-tion about beautification efforts visit our website or call the office.

Don’t forget that April is Au-tism Awareness month. Take care of those who LIVE in Mason County, Washington, and the Pacific Northwest by supporting Autism Awarness United.

Show off where you WORK at the upcoming Business Expo & Bite of Shelton.

Registration is open and space is limited so register today at www.sheltonchamber.org/expo.

Listen to folks PLAY at the Old Time Fiddlers Fest, benefiting SOCK. Concerts will be offered April 6, 7 & 8 with a spaghetti feed on Saturday.

If you like to PLAY on the beautiful waters in Mason County, you may be interested in registering for Tacoma Maritime Institute’s Boating Education Class at Lake Limerick. The class will be held on Saturday, April 14. Call (253) 536-4494.


April CHAMBEr AnD CounTy EVEnTSApril 3

chamber governmentalaffairs committee Meeting

7:30 aM roosters restaurant3001 olympic hwy n, shelton

chamber ambassadorscommittee Meeting

12:00 - 1:00 PMgrove street brewhouse233 s First st, shelton

April 4union Tourism

association Meeting12:00 – 1:00 PM

alderbrook golf & yacht club330 country club dr, union

April 6business builder Workshop

11:30 aM - 1:00 PMgrove street brewhouse

233 s First st, sheltonretirement Planning with

Melanie bakala of state Farm insurance

April 6-8old Time Fiddlers Fest

shs center for Performing arts

3737 n shelton springs rd, shelton

April 8easter sunday

April 10Morning leads group

7:30 - 9:00 aMPine Tree restaurant102 s First st, shelton

chamber Member services committee Meeting

12:00 - 1:00 PMsteven’s on railroad

203 W railroad ave, shelton

April 11chamber Marketingcommittee Meeting

8:00 aM at the chamber office215 W railroad avenue,

shelton

lunch leads group11:30 aM - 1:00 PMsteven’s on railroad


empty bowls5:00 - 7:00 PM

shelton civic center525 W cota st, shelton

business after hours5:30 - 7:00 PM

Maple glen senior living1700 n 13th loop rd, shelton

April 12chamber Finance

committee Meeting7:30 aM at the chamber office215 W railroad avenue, shelton

April 14boating education class

8:30 aM - 4:30 PMlake limerick, shelton

dragonFest lantern building Workshop12:00 pm - 2:00 pm Pine Tree restaurant102 s First st, shelton

April 16Tax day

April 18saVer committee Meeting

7:00 aMroosters restaurant

3001 olympic hwy n,shelton

April 19Monthly Membership Meeting –

state of the community 6:00 – 8:00 PM

The Pavilion at sentry Park190 W sentry dr, shelton

a Fair affair dinner & auction

6:00 - 9:00 PMMason county Fairgrounds751 Fairgrounds rd, shelton

April 20-22dragonFest

Mason county Fairgrounds751 Fairgrounds rd, shelton

April 2070s Zumba dance Party for american cancer society

6:00 - 8:00 PMThe dance shack

150 William White Way, shelton

April 21spring Turkey shoot

9:00 aM - 12:00 noon521 W business Park rd,

shelton

April 22earth day

Traveler days begins!

April 23experience china

informational session5:30 PM colonial house222 e Pine st, shelton

April 24Morning leads group

7:30 - 9:00 aMPine Tree restaurant

102 s First st, shelton

April 25lunch leads group11:30 aM - 1:00 PMsteven’s on railroad


Pomegranate center community Meeting

5:30 PMcolonial house 222 e Pine. street, shelton

April 27chamber board Meeting

7:30 aMchamber office


oriEnT-ation Event April 23 Representatives from Citslinc are traveling from China to answer any questions you may have about the Experience China Trip scheduled for October 13-22, 2012. They will host our ORIENT-ation at 5:30 pm in the Colonial House. The $2,300/pp all inclu-sive includes charter bus to SeaTac, round trip airfare, three full meals per day, 5- or 4-star hotel accommodations, deluxe tour buses, knowledgeable and English-speaking tour guides in each city, admission to tourist sites, airport taxes, post-departure travel insurance, transport to SeaTac Airport, visa application fee, gratuity for servers, drivers and wait staff. Not included in price: Passport fee, ad-ditional travel insurance (contact your local travel agent) and optional tours. See ancient sights in Beijing, Shanghai, Suzhou, and Hangzhou in this ten day trip. Walk on the Great Wall, see the Summer Palace, take a dragon boat across the Lake at Hangzhou among many other surreal places and sites. For more information, including trip itinerary, see our website at www.sheltonchamber.org/experience-china.


Dragons’ bighT what do stamps, lanterns and fire performers have in common?Rachel Hansen | Coordinator, Mason Faigrounds

This January, I spied a sheet of dragon stamps at the Post Office, “I’ll take ten of those,” I told the clerk. “I think we should have a dragon festival at the fairgrounds.” He paused: “ Are dragons indigenous to Shelton?”

Well, to be honest... I was thinking about lanterns, drag-ons and fire performers long before I saw the stamps... but they kind of made it “right.” After that, all sorts of things pointed to dragons, although as I am continually reminded, you see what you want to see!

So that day in the post office, DragonFest was officially born in Shelton. The year of the dragon; Earth Day and St. George’s Day (English holiday about dragon slaying); and a willing troupe of fire-breathers all naturally led to this new community celebration.

What is DragonFest? Well, it’s different for everyone. For me it’s about the lantern parade. Imagine glowing lanterns in all shapes and sizes; music and dancing; and a path of lit tissue wrapped mason jars through the fairgrounds. I am thrilled at the potential of the bamboo and paper creations and elated that lantern build-ing workshops have sprung up at local businesses!

For others it is the food or the music. The chance to celebrate and dance. Shake off Winter! The excitement of the Dragon Steps group. Twenty-five performers skilled in dance, juggling, acrobats, theatre.... and, yes, fire breathing!

This is a pre-fair event to give departments opportunities to raise funds to pay for supplies, judges, prizes, and to present the best Fair ever!

For each Fair department, it has yet another meaning. Needlework is hosting a “Pil-lowcase Brigade,” where 15-20 volunteers set up “stations,” to create pillowcase. At one end the material is cut - the

other is the finished product available for you to take home, knowing that your donation goes to a good cause!Every building has something different. The Rodeo is hosting a stick horse/dragon race; the agricultural department is planning earth day activities; and throughout -,vendors and crafters will be displaying and creating!

The “dragon” logo chosen for this event represents the Sisiutl (Si’sEyuL). This is one of the most powerful crests and mythological creatures of the peoples of the Pacific North-west Coast. It figures promi-nently in their art, dances and songs and is the guardian of the house of the sky people.

DragonFest is a celebration of our community. Whether you come to build lanterns or simply eat, drink, and be merry (or all of the above!); we are certain that you will find some-thing that awakens your inner “dragon!” We can’t wait to see what you come up with!

Thank you to Toziers Ace Hardware and the Pine Tree Restaurant for supporting this event!

DragonFestApril 20-22

Mason FairgroundsAdmission $5.00 Adults, Kids FREE

Parking Free. Vendor spaces are available, please see www.masoncountyfair.org for

details & schedules or call 427-5599!

Dragonfest 2012 Events

phot

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ing

Saturday, April 14 | 12:00 - 2:00 PMlAnTErn BuilDinG worKSHopPine Tree RestaurantJoin us for a fun afternoon! We will have the supplies to build your own paper/bamboo lantern to use at DragonFest. $10 in-cludes a ticket for the Festival! Call 427-5599 for information or for additional workshop dates! We can even come to your group or business and host this fun event on site!

Thursday, April 19 | 6:00 PMA fAir AffAirOlympic Hall, Mason FairgroundsLaunch the festivities with a delicious dinner , live music and auction to support the fair departments. Each auction item has been donated to support specific buildings & events at the fair! Dessert sponsored by Olympic Mountain Ice Cream! Tickets $15 adults, $5 kids.

April 20-22 | FRI (3-10) SAT (10-10) SUN (10-3)DrAGonfESTMason Fairgrounds, 751 Fairgrounds Road, Shelton WAThree-day community celebration featuring entertainers, live music, vendors, food, activities for the whole family, and a lantern festival on FRI and SAT nights. Admission: Adult $5.00, Kids FREE. Tickets available at Toziers and the Pine Tree Restaurant. Lantern kits available for $5.00. Call 427-5599 for information on camping, lanterns, entertainment and sponsorship opportunities!


Yes – Dragons are indigenous to Shelton.

FRI 3-10, SAT 10-10, SUN 10-3

Mason County Fairgrounds, Shelton, WA | Just off Hwy 101

LANTERN FESTIVAL & BUILDING WORKSHOPS • FAIR & RODEO ACTIVITIES

ARTS & CRAFTS VENDORS • FOOD • ENTERTAINMENT & MUSIC

Admission $5 KIDS & PARKING FREE

www.masoncountyfair.org | 360-427-5599

vendor spaces

available $100

Earth Day

Festivities!

FREE TREES

LANTERNworkshop &

parade! FUN!

PRIZES!

PHO

TO: B

RA

ND

ON

PA

LMER

SPRINGFair & Rodeo

EVENTS

Live Music &

DragonSteps

GROUP!

HIGH CEILING

SAT @ 8 PMVines & Brews featuring

Grove Street

Brewery

April 20-22

LanternBuilding

WORKSHOPS:

throughout April

$10 includes lantern

supplies, help and

ticket to the event!

Call for details!

427-5599

PINE TREERestaurant & Lounge

Shelton, WA

call for details: 360-427-5599website: www.masoncountyfair.org


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Mason County Historical Museum Adds to Collection | Justin Cowling, Director, MCHM The picture above just came into the Museum’s collection. This is the only known photo of this Peninsular locomotive with a wooden conductor’s cab which is a Bald-win Mikados 2-8-2 built in 1910. It was known to Peninsular Railway and Simpson Logging Company as the #8 or “E. Frank Brown”. While parking this locomotive into the roundhouse on Railroad Avenue the train hit a half-closed door, destroying much of the body. The wooden sides were a temporary fix while waiting for the Bald-win Locomotive Company to deliver a new cab.

To see this picture and thousands more in the Mason County Historical Museum’s collection please visit us on the corner of Fifth and Railroad Tuesday – Friday 11:00 AM – 5:00 PM or on Saturdays from 11:00 AM – 4:00 PM.

Time to put your Community Knowledge to work

Hopefully, many of you participated in the “Test Your Mason County Mind” campaign that was been running in partnership with our local media venues. If you missed this informative event, it is not too late. All four quizzes can be found on www.healthymasoncounty.org or a link from the Mason County main website, www.co.mason.wa.us.

We encourage you to pour yourself a nice cup of tea or grab a coffee, and complete the quizzes. You may be surprised about what you know about our community.

We are now actively recruiting community input on community priorities. After you have finished the four quizzes, you should have a deeper understanding of some the community needs and challenges that affect our capacity to address these needs. We encourage you to complete the Com-munity Health Priorities Survey, posted on the Healthy Mason County web site. This survey should take about 15 minutes to complete.

We are interested in learning more about what the Mason County community thinks we need to be addressing so that we can achieve our goal as the “Healthiest County in the State.” Community input

will be added to the priority conversa-tions held by the Mason County Com-munity Health Improvement Planning Committee.

After community priorities are identi-fied and assessed for opportunities for change, we will be convening smaller work groups to develop strategic plans around these strategic health issues. Community members are welcome to participate any or all of these planning activities.

For more information on the “Test Your Mason County Mind” campaign, the Community Health Improvement Plan and/or the Community Health Priori-ties Survey, please contact Kim Klint at [email protected]” [email protected] or (360) 427-9670 ext. 543.

wEAVEr CrEEK BriDGE rEplACEMEnT proJECT upDATE The Mason County Board of Commis-sioner and Public Works Department would like to announce that the new Weaver Creek Bridge on Skokomish Valley Road is now open for public use.

Final work required to complete the project is weather dependant and will be completed as soon as conditions allow.

It is anticipated that the remain-ing work could take up to 2 weeks to complete. This work includes deck membrane installation, roadway paving, miscellaneous earthwork, guardrail installation, and site cleanup. During the final work traffic will need to use the detour route and require temporary signal use.

The speed limit through the project site will remain 20mph until all construc-tion activities have been completed.


AnotHER BIghT of THE BiTE The Chamber is now accepting registrations for the annual Business Expo and Bite of Shelton to be held on Thursday, May 17, from 12 noon to 7 pm at The Pavilion at Sentry Park in Shelton. The Expo is a showcase of the fabulous, unique businesses in Mason County. In its twelfth year, this event will again include the traditional “Best Booth” and “Golden Fork” awards.

Last year more than 65 businesses showcased their products and services. This fun-filled event also offers local restaurant special-ties – available for a small fee – as well as prizes, drawings, and entertainment.

The feel of the event is a high energy, block party as businesses and community organizations draw on showmanship and pa-nache to get visitors’ attention to share what makes their business so dynamic. Whether you’re interested in reserving a booth, or in attending, this event should not be missed!

Board member Melanie Bakala had this to say about the Expo: “I have participated in a lot of these types of events in other com-munities, and our Chamber’s Business Expo is a unique blend of business and community that provides unparalleled exposure.”

Space is limited so reserve your space now! Register online at www.sheltonchamber.org/expo or download the form to mail/fax your submission. Several registration forms have already been received so we encourage interested vendors to act quickly.

Thank you to our Sponsors: Bakala State Farm, Heritage Bank, Hood Canal Communications, Port of Shelton, Top Hand LLC, The Strip Steak House, Tupper’s Floor Coverings and West Coast Bank. And in-kind sponsors 94.5 ROXY, KMAS News Radio, The Shelton-Mason County Journal, Shelton Life, and the Shopper’s Weekly.

Toziers Display outside Pavilion. photo: Shelton Chamber

Fantastic food at the Shelton Bite

Great business networking opportunities at the event


The Chamber invited its Members to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day at the annual auction. The event was a tremendous success with more than 140 attendees and thousands of dollars raised to support the Chamber’s events and programs.

12th Annual Business Expo and Bite of Shelton This year’s event takes place at the Pavilion at Sentry Park on Thursday, May 17 from noon to 7:00 pm. Call the Chamber to reserve your space now!

saInT PaTrICk’s Day AuCTion

wSu frEE SEpTiCS worKSHop April 17Tuesday, April 17, 2012, 5:30pm - 7:30pmPioneer Intermediate SchoolTo help homeowners avoid flushing money down the drain, experts will explain what can be flushed safely, how septic systems work and what to do to protect this very valuable feature of every rural home. The workshop describes the basic components of septic systems and provides partici-pants a chance to ask questions specific to their own needs. Those attending will receive straightforward information to help them maintain their septic systems. Along with a septic maintenance discount coupon, everyone attending will receive a useful printed manual they can use as a resource at home.

Once again, the table sponsors ‘wow’-ed us all with whimsical, themed, over-the-top centerpieces. As the guests milled between these beautifully decorated tables, the array of costume

And in addition to the silent and live auctions, the evening boasted all sorts of fun…a 50/50 raffle and blind wine pull, a rousing game of “Heads and Tails”, and a signature drink called “Liquid Gold”.

The Chamber would like to extend sincere gratitude to all of the local businesses and community members who have generously donated and sponsored the event. And, a great big “thank you” to the Chamber staff and the Auction Committee: Chairwoman Lisa Woodard, Steve Andrewski, Libby Avery, Melanie Bakala, Deidre Eaton, Brandy Faught, Debbie McHargue, Carrie Lemmon, Jan Lovig, Danielle May, Jennifer Owens, Mike Thompson, Allison Wagner.

Thank you to: presenting sponsor Capitol City Press; Something Green sponsor Green Diamond Resource Company; Table Spon-sors Alderbrook Golf & Yacht Club, Alpine Way Retirement Apartments, ARCH Mechani-cal, Bakala State Farm Insurance, Falcon Financial, Inc., Green Dia-mond Resource Company, Hood Canal Communications, Houle & Goodell, Attorneys PLLC, Lynch Creek Floral, Peninsula Credit Union, Prudential Northwest Real Estate, Servepro of Mason County, Shelton Skookum Rotary, Squaxin Island Tourism, The Log Cabin Bar & Grill, Urraco Coffee Co., Vander Wal’s Garage, and West Coast Bank; and Beverage Sponsors Carrie’s Cakes, Hood Canal Communications, Richard D. Thornbrue, CPA, and Shelton Athletic Club.Thank you to all of our gener-

ous donors: 2nd Street Design Studio, 94.5 Roxy, AAA Insur-ance Washington, Acupuncture Solutions, Alderbrook Golf & Yacht Club, Alderbrook Resort & Spa, All-League Sports & More, Alpine Way Retirement Apart-ments, Anna’s Bay Center for Music, Anytime Fitness, ARCH Mechanical, ASEA, Bakala State Farm Insurance, Melanie Bakala, Balance Day Spa & Massage Clinic, Bayshore Golf Course, BizGifts, Budd Bay Café, Cameo Boutique & Bin 106 Wine Shop, Capitol City Press, Carrie’s Cakes, Case by Case Jewelers, Central Mason Fire & EMS, Aimee Coleman, Comcast Business Services, Cooper Studios, Gary Cronce, Kevin Cronquist, Dani-elle May, John Dobson, Dogwood Construction, Domino’s Pizza – Shelton, Richard C. Down-ing, DDS, EFI, Emerald Downs, Falcon Financial, Inc., Fraser Metal Works, Fresh Start Market, Game On! Guide Service, Kathy Gerchak - Pampered Chef, Gil-lis Auto Center, Gone Walkin’, Green Diamond Resource Com-pany, Green Diamond Resource Company, Grove Street Brew-house, Haigh Veterinary Hospital, Harlequin Productions, Harmony Hill Retreat Center, Hood Canal Adventures, Hood Canal Com-munications, Hoodsport Winery, Hoss & Wilson-Hoss, LLP, Rick Hoss, Houle & Goodell, At-torneys PLLC, Joonbug Yoga, Ka-leidoscope Massage Therapy, Lake Limerick Golf, Jan Lovig, Lucky Dog Casino, Lynch Creek Floral, Pam Madison - Miche Bags, Manke Lumber, Mariano’s Fine Jewelry & Design, Jeff McHargue, Janeen McLaughlin – Norwex, Miles Sand & Gravel, Muckle-shoot Casino, Newman Family Chiropractic, Nita’s Restaurant & Gallery, Oakland Bay Landscape Services, O’Blarney’s Irish Pub, Oregon Shakespeare Festival, Peninsula Credit Union, Phoenix

Inn, Pints & Quarts, Prudential Northwest Real Estate, Pure Romance by Heather, Quinault Beach Resort & Casino, Radisson Hotel – Portland, Rivertooth Beer & Wine Shop, Robert E’s Carpet Cleaning, Robin Hood Restaurant & Pub, Safari Tans, Sage Book Store, Servpro of Mason County, Shelton Athletic Club, Shelton Cinemas, Shelton Skookum Ro-tary, Sign-A-Rama, Skyline Drive In, Smoking Mo’s Kitchen, Squax-in Island Enterprises, Squaxin Island Tourism, Steph’s Espresso, Taylor United Shellfish, Texaco at Bayshore, The Log Cabin Bar & Grill, The Strip Steak House, Tozier Brothers, Inc., Tupper’s Floor Coverings, Union Tour-ism Association, Urraco Coffee Co., Vander Wal’s Garage, Verle’s Sporting Goods & Marine, Vince & Geri Himlie, Walmart, Walter Dacon Wines, Washington Small

Business Development Center, Washington State University - Mason County Extension, West Coast Bank, Womer Trucking, Lisa Woodard, and Xinh’s Clam & Oyster House.


LasT BIghT: THE TAll TAlE of SHElTon’S pAul & BABE

One could cross the United States and Canada simply visiting Paul Bunyans, and in fact many people do! A stop in Redwoods is not complete without joining the crowds of other tourists to snap a picture for the scrapbook at Paul’s ten foot high booths in Klamath, California.

Top- Paul and Babe, September 2011 at Our Community Credit Union; Above Left - Lloyd Prouty and his grandson Mathew Sherfield 16 years ago with a very broken Paul Bunyan; Above Right - Paul gets some “moves” courtesy of Indutrial Hydrallics; Below, Babe the Blue Ox finally joins Paul! ( photos courtesy of Lloyd Prouty)

Paul Bunyan is a lumberjack figure in North American folklore and tradition. One of the most famous and popular North American folklore he-roes, he is usually described as a giant as well as a lumberjack of unusual skill, and is often accompanied in stories by his animal companion, Babe the Blue Ox.

Over 30 states and nine prov-inces have some form of giant Bunyan to be proud of.

Shelton is no exception. In the late 50’s or early 1960’s, the Bingers Brothers brought Paul Bunyan, a fiberglass statue of legendary proportions to stand tall overlooking Goldsborough Creek and the local Binger Gas Station. This “Tall Paul” (21’) was the advertising gim-mick for the Bingers Brother gas station chain.

Bingers became Gull and then the City of Shelton overtook the responsibility of caring for Paul. After some down time at the sewer plant, Paul was be-queathed to the Shelton High Climbers, the local high school to stand Tall over the High Climber foot ball field.

For a while Paul stood guard at local football games, his 9’ ax at the ready, until some adventur-ous souls removed the ax from Paul and drove like the wind to get away and show off Tumwa-ter’s new trophy.

In 1995, the locals in Shelton began to wain for the presence of Tall Paul. A couple guys stepped forward and took on

the daunting task to com-pletely restore and make Paul available for special days and parades.

But, Paul was without an ax. The local editor of the Journal wrote a front page story about the missing ax. The paper came out on Thursday and bright and early Sunday a call came through with the exact location of the missing ax. “Drive down the alley, look on the back porch of the first house.”

Off they sped to Tumwater and followed the instruction to the “T”. Lo and behold, behind the house was the missing ax. The guys quickly took pictures of the trophy and drove to the front of the house.

They knocked on the door which was answered by a young lad to which they ex-plained that they had come for Paul’s ax. His jaw dropped and he exclaimed a firm denial.

They countered with a couple options: one man held up a camera and the other politely explained his two options: bring the ax to the front of the home so they could leave friends; or, they leave, get the film developed and stop and see Officer O’Malley to get an arrest warrant and have his heinie thrown in the cross bar hotel.

With a smile they left friends and have a great story to tell all.

(story continued page 18)


In 1995, the restora-tion project started and was completed the next spring, Paul was ready for parades and other events.

However, since 1995, Paul had complained about the absence of his legendary logging part-ner, Babe the Blue Ox.

Fast forward to 2011.

A manufacturer of a large Babe, 17’3” Long, 8’ tall at the hump has been located and a deal was struck with a plan of action.

After a lot of hard work and vigorous fund-raising, Babe the Blue Ox was introduced to Shelton in September, 2011.

This was no ordinary large fiberglass statue. This Babe had “tricks” to start all new memo-ries for the little ones to tell their kids. A custom made trailer was built for Babe to move from place to place providing enjoyment to the folks who come out to see

them as well as those they pass on the highway.

Interstate Batteries donated a large “CAT” battery to operate Babe’s trick. Les Schwab donated the new tires for the trailer. To these generous local business-es, thank you and to the many others that have answered the call to bring Babe to Shelton, thank you!

With the restoration of Paul and Babe, Mason County has been able to step back into the ranks of the communities and byways throughout North America that cel-ebrate the rich heritage that is represented by these logging folk lore legends.

We need to look no farther than ingenuity and integrity of this community for the resources to enhance and honor this heritage even more.

Paul Bunyan and Blue are iconic mascots for Shelton and Mason County, visiting parade and festivals throughout the Northwest. They are also great draws for tourists to the area.

When they are not on tour, the two will set up camp at the Mason Fairgrounds for all to see during the year and at our own local events such as DragonFest, the Mason Fair and Rodeo and Oysterfest!

Thank you, Lloyd Prouty, for dreaming big -really BIG- and bringing us Paul and Babe. Thank you also to all the sponsors and contributors to this project!

Story and pictures courtesy of https://www.facebook.com/PaulBun-yanAndBabe

Christmas Parade, 2011 Shelton, WA

(Continued from page 17)

new location for Mason puD 3 payment Drop Box in Downtown Shelton Customers can pay in person or use the convenient drop box when paying their bills at PUD 3’s Shelton Payment Center at 310 West Cota Street. Business hours at the Payment Center are from 8 AM to 5 PM Monday through Fri-day. The drop box can be accessed 24 hours a day.

The box is now located in the PUD Payment Center parking lot off from Cota Street. It is on the left where the lot intersects with the alley. The box has been relocated in advance of the move of PUD 3 administration functions to the Johns Prairie operations center.


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