KMAS Radio

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

 Fire season is coming fast, and Mason County is gearing up. In this episode, Jeff Slakey chats with South Mason Fire PIO Amber Anderson about the county-wide Wildfire-Ready Neighbors Fair happening Saturday, May 3, 11 a.m. – 2 p.m. in the Shelton Civic Center parking lot (525 W. Cota St.) . Hear how Central Mason Fire, South Mason Fire, DNR, Squaxin Island Tribe, Mason Conservation District, the...

Washington State Senator Drew MacEwen joins Jeff Slakey to unpack the just-completed 2025 legislative session. MacEwen shares his candid take on what he calls one of the most frustrating sessions he's experienced—highlighting $10 billion in new taxes, rising fees, and limited bipartisan cooperation. He discusses concerns over the budget's sustainability, impacts on working-class families, and pote...

Mark your calendars for June 21st and 22nd at South Sound Stadium — that’s North Thurston High School in Lacey — where teams from across Thurston and Mason counties will gather for this powerful 22-hour event. Mason County is still proudly represented with teams like Boz Brigade , led by Deb Hill and Vicki Gonzalez, honoring loved ones lost and those still fighting. The event kicks off Saturday at...

It’s been a busy session in Olympia, and the 35th District delegation is sounding the alarm on taxes, education equity, and small business impacts. In a recent update, Representatives Dan Griffey and Travis Couture shared concerns about what they’re calling some of the largest tax increases in state history — including $5 billion in B&O tax hikes that could affect everything from groceries to...

In this episode, Jeff chats with Kim Morris from the Armstrong Community Outreach Foundation about one of the most exciting community events of the year—the 13th Annual Easter Egg Hunt & Flashlight Egg Hunt happening Saturday, April 12 at South Mason Youth Soccer Fields. From a daytime egg hunt packed with games, a talent show, and kid vendors , to an after-dark adventure featuring live music...

In this interview, I sit down once again with Mason County Sheriff Ryan Spurling at the Fjord Oyster Bank in Hoodsport, just ahead of the monthly Sheriff's Lunch. Sheriff Spurling dives deep into what leadership looks like inside the Sheriff’s Office—from West Point-inspired training to major promotions and a focus on building ethical, motivated teams. We talk about the legacy of retiring Jail Chi...

I had the chance to sit down again with State Senator Drew MacEwen as we inch closer to the end of the legislative session. It’s budget season, and we got into some deep conversation about what’s in—and what’s being cut from—the latest proposals. Right out of the gate, we talked about wildfire prevention, which is especially relevant here in the 35th. Drew expressed serious concern over cuts to DN...

Had a great chat with 35th District Reps Dan Griffey and Travis Couture about what’s happening in Olympia. As we get closer to the end of the legislative session, things are heating up—especially around the budget, public safety, and education. Travis broke down the upcoming state budget, highlighting concerns about new taxes and proposed cuts, including a push to close Mission Creek Women’s Priso...

Mental health support just got a whole lot easier in Mason County. I sat down with Dave Windom, Director of Mason County Public Health, to talk about a brand-new pilot program using the United We Care app. It’s a free, AI-powered platform that connects people to real support, whether that’s a trained listener, a coach, or a licensed therapist. We get into how this works, why Mason County chose Uni...

In this conversation with State Senator Drew MacEwen , we cover some of the major issues facing Washington State right now. Ferries & Transportation: The state has been struggling with ferry service disruptions, and while electric ferries are the long-term goal, they’re not a realistic solution today. Drew shares why the focus should be on building new diesel-efficient boats now to restore ser...

I had my scheduled interview with Shelton School District Superintendent Wyeth Jessee, below are some topics we covered.  Mostly budget related stuff, but I did ask about things brought up by those attending the school board meetings and comments brought up on social media. Also I'm trying a new camera/sound setup. 🔹 State & Federal Funding Struggles – Rising operational costs and a significa...

This week, 35th District Representative Dan Griffey and I are diving into some issues affecting our community—from childcare shortages to criminal justice concerns. We start with the challenges families face when it comes to affordable and available childcare . House Republicans are pushing for policy changes, including a tiered system for different levels of care, quicker certifications, and liab...

Time for another deep dive into what's happening in Olympia! This week, we caught up with 35th District Representatives Dan Griffey and Travis Couture to break down some major legislative discussions and how they’re impacting our communities. We kicked things off with a heated debate over a proposal to remove George Washington’s image from the state flag and official documents . Dan and Travis sha...

Another Sheriff Sit-Down with Mason County Sheriff Ryan Spurling, and we covered a lot! We kicked things off talking about the Polar Plunge, which raised money for Mason County Emergency Services. It’s amazing to see the community step up year after year to support the dive team, fire halls, and chaplains who keep us safe. And yes—Sheriff Spurling took the plunge while I stayed dry! 😆 Next year’s...

Comedian Sam Miller, based out of Olympia but touring nationwide, joined me to talk about his comedy journey, recovery, and upcoming shows. Sam’s been doing stand-up for 11 years, with the last four as a full-time career. His comedy often draws from his past struggles with addiction and homelessness, blending humor with real-life experiences that resonate with audiences. Despite performing in bars...

35th District Representative Dan Griffey and I talked about the advantages of being close to the Capitol, allowing him to stay connected to both the legislative process and his community. He shared how returning home each night helps him stay grounded and in touch with the real concerns of his constituents. We also dug into the ongoing budget deficit and the pressing need to fully fund special edu...

Washington State Senator Drew MacEwen and I covered much ground in our conversation this week. We discussed the benefits of remote testimony and how technology is helping connect lawmakers with constituents across the state. On the state budget, Senator MacEwen pointed out that the deficit isn’t due to a lack of revenue but rather unsustainable spending growth, emphasizing the need for more respon...

Ryan Perkins, General Manager of FC Oly (formerly OlyTown Artesians), joins me to break down the upcoming soccer season and what’s ahead for the club. We also dive into an important event on Sunday, 2/9, at the Lacey Community Center—a free Q&A session where parents, players, and coaches can get real answers about the path to college or pro soccer.  Scouts and coaches from Lexington SC, Seattl...

In this conversation, I sit down with Mike Lambert from the Hood Canal Lions to talk about the upcoming Polar Bear Plunge at Alderbrook Resort and Spa. This event has been making a splash for 15 years , raising thousands for Mason County’s emergency services—including the dive team, marine patrol, and fire department. We cover everything from raffle prizes (think overnight stays at Alderbrook, gol...

Here’s a recap of what 35th District Representatives Dan Griffey, and Travis Couture and I covered in our conversation this week. Rep. Griffey brought up the Hope Card. It’s a really innovative tool for domestic violence survivors, about the size of a driver’s license, that helps law enforcement enforce protection orders. Over 200 of these cards have already been issued since January, and there’s...

KMAS' Jeff Slakey speaks with Representatives Dan Griffey and Travis Couture of the 35th District about key issues shaping Washington State. They tackle the $10 billion budget deficit, the need for rural infrastructure investment, and the challenges facing law enforcement. Hear their perspectives on how bipartisan leadership and prioritizing public safety, education, and affordability can make a d...

From budget challenges to rural economy advocacy, learn about his plans for the 35th District. Discover how he’s addressing critical issues like law enforcement recruitment and updating outdated policies. Drew MacEwen-State Senator  Key Highlights: 1. State Senator Drew MacEwen discusses legislative priorities, including budget challenges and rural economy support. 2. Budget concerns: Record reven...

Superintendent Jessee talks with Jeff Slakey about the budget and a variety of issues 1. Budget Challenges and Rising Costs (0:00 - 7:16) I sat down with Shelton Schools Superintendent Wyeth Jessee and the first topic was the financial pressures the Shelton School District is facing. Operating costs, like utilities, payroll, and maintenance, have increased significantly, but state funding hasn’t k...

Introduction and Context (0:00–2:00) In my recent conversation with Dr. Lance Gibbon at the Hood Canal School District, we revisited their ongoing efforts to improve the district through bond and levy measures. Reflecting on past challenges, Dr. Gibbon introduced two upcoming proposals for the February 11th ballot: an EP&O levy and a Capital Projects Levy, both aimed at addressing pressing sch...