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Sisällön tarjoaa Jeff Slakey. Jeff Slakey tai sen podcast-alustan kumppani lataa ja toimittaa kaiken podcast-sisällön, mukaan lukien jaksot, grafiikat ja podcast-kuvaukset. Jos uskot jonkun käyttävän tekijänoikeudella suojattua teostasi ilman lupaasi, voit seurata tässä https://fi.player.fm/legal kuvattua prosessia.
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Was she the victim of foul play, an accident, or did she choose to disappear? In this episode of The Vanished, we retrace Diana’s last known movements, strange witness accounts, and the lingering mystery that has never been solved or.. was never meant to be solved.
KMAS & The Fjord Magazine
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Sisällön tarjoaa Jeff Slakey. Jeff Slakey tai sen podcast-alustan kumppani lataa ja toimittaa kaiken podcast-sisällön, mukaan lukien jaksot, grafiikat ja podcast-kuvaukset. Jos uskot jonkun käyttävän tekijänoikeudella suojattua teostasi ilman lupaasi, voit seurata tässä https://fi.player.fm/legal kuvattua prosessia.
KMAS - The Fjord celebrates what's unique about Hood Canal and South Puget Sound, sharing stories of individuals, examining our shared history a well as highlighting local happenings and festivals. Join us on adventures to discover local hikes, events, and forgotten treasures and learn new ways to enjoy our backyard.
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Merkitse kaikki (ei-)toistetut ...
Manage series 3369022
Sisällön tarjoaa Jeff Slakey. Jeff Slakey tai sen podcast-alustan kumppani lataa ja toimittaa kaiken podcast-sisällön, mukaan lukien jaksot, grafiikat ja podcast-kuvaukset. Jos uskot jonkun käyttävän tekijänoikeudella suojattua teostasi ilman lupaasi, voit seurata tässä https://fi.player.fm/legal kuvattua prosessia.
KMAS - The Fjord celebrates what's unique about Hood Canal and South Puget Sound, sharing stories of individuals, examining our shared history a well as highlighting local happenings and festivals. Join us on adventures to discover local hikes, events, and forgotten treasures and learn new ways to enjoy our backyard.
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KMAS & The Fjord Magazine

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 significant funding gap have put pressure on Shelton schools. While the state allocates funds for utilities, insurance, and staffing, the actual expenses exceed what districts receive, forcing tough financial decisions. 🔹 Levy & Local Funding Differences – Not all districts are funded equally. Schools in wealthier areas can generate more revenue through local levies, while districts like Shelton rely primarily on state funding. This imbalance affects resources, technology, and overall student support. 🔹 Essential School Services & Budgeting – Schools provide more than just education. Maintaining facilities, ensuring security, providing meals, and funding after-school programs all come with costs. With funding shortfalls, districts must prioritize, often at the expense of valuable student services. 🔹 Federal Funding & Potential Cuts – Federal dollars support free meals and special education programs. Any cuts to these funds could disproportionately impact districts with high-need students, adding strain to already tight budgets. 🔹 School Maintenance & Repairs – Aging school buildings require constant upkeep, but limited resources make improvements difficult. Recent facility issues, including bathroom stall repairs at OBJH and vandalism, highlight the district’s efforts to maintain safe and functional learning environments. 🔹 Student Behavior & Bullying Prevention – Creating a safe and welcoming school environment is a priority. While bullying remains a concern, most conflicts stem from social struggles and external influences. The district invests in training and intervention strategies to support students and foster positive interactions. 🔹 Transportation & Bus Operations – Shelton’s school transportation operates cooperatively with Southside and Pioneer districts. While the district oversees operations, each school’s administrators are key in addressing bus-related concerns. 🔹 Planning for the Future – With ongoing legislative sessions and budget discussions, decisions made in the coming months will shape the next school year. The district continues to advocate for funding that covers the actual cost of education while preparing for summer programs to support student learning.…
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KMAS & The Fjord Magazine

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 liability protections for in-home providers—especially in childcare deserts like parts of Mason County. Then, we talk about concerns over potential closures or access issues at Olympic National Park due to federal budget constraints. While nothing’s official, state lawmakers are ready to put pressure on Congress to keep the park open. We also take a hard look at the criminal justice system , specifically resentencing laws and DUI enforcement. There's growing concern about cases being overturned too easily, backlogs in toxicology testing slowing down prosecutions, and repeat offenders getting off too soon. The need for more funding for forensic labs is clear. Finally, we discuss sentencing policies, forgiveness, and a victim-centric approach to justice. There's debate over whether some sentences are too lenient and whether the Clemency and Pardons Board should factor in victims' voices before making decisions. Plus, we highlight the ongoing backlog in rape kit testing and the urgent need to clear these cases.…
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 shared their frustrations, arguing that this isn't the priority Washingtonians need to be focusing on—especially considering the state is staring down a $10 billion budget shortfall . From there, we tackled the growing issue of homeless encampments and the legal gray area surrounding cleanup efforts. Community members are stepping in to remove trash, but some property owners are raising concerns about trespassing laws . Meanwhile, a new bill could make it even harder for cities to address homelessness, allowing encampment residents to sue local governments if their camps are cleared. Dan and Travis warn this could lead to even more encampments with fewer tools to address the root causes. On the law enforcement front , we discussed a controversial proposal that could limit the types of traffic stops officers can make —meaning people driving with broken headlights, missing taillights, or expired tabs might not get pulled over. While supporters see this as a step toward equity in policing, critics (including WSP and local sheriffs) warn that these stops often lead to DUI arrests and catching more serious offenders. We also touched on public protests happening at the Capitol—what brings people out, how often lawmakers engage with demonstrators, and the challenges of representing a district when loud voices at rallies don’t always reflect the majority opinion. Plus, Dan shared a behind-the-scenes look at how lawmakers navigate the flood of emails from frustrated citizens—sometimes even getting mistaken for members of Congress! As always, Dan and Travis provided some unfiltered insights into the legislative process, including what bills they’re watching, how they’re working to make bad policies better, and what all of this means for folks in the 35th District. With just over 65 days left in the session , things are moving fast, and we’ll keep you updated every step of the way.…
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KMAS & The Fjord Magazine

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 is already set for Valentine’s Day 2026, so you’ve got plenty of time to prepare! From there, we got into a big discussion on community policing and why public safety isn’t just about law enforcement—it’s about the partnership between officers and the people they serve. Sheriff Spurling talked about how Mason County has always supported law enforcement, even when other places were seeing anti-police sentiment. That support, he says, has been key to recruiting and retaining good officers, especially since Mason County can’t always compete with the salaries in larger counties. We also talked about body cameras—why Sheriff Spurling has been a strong advocate for them, how they help with transparency and accountability, and how they’ve cut complaints against officers by 35% in some cases. The bottom line? Most officers are out there doing the right thing, and having that footage helps showcase their professionalism while also holding everyone accountable. Another big topic—the sheriff’s budget. While many cities and counties across Washington are struggling with massive deficits, Mason County’s commissioners have done a solid job managing resources. That’s meant additional deputy positions and a push to get to one deputy per 1,000 residents, something the sheriff says is key for keeping the county safe. Then we got into something that’s raising concerns across law enforcement—a proposed state law that would limit traffic stops for minor equipment violations (like a broken taillight). Sheriff Spurling explained why these stops are about more than just tickets—they help keep unsafe vehicles off the road, they provide positive officer interactions, and they often lead to arrests of criminals who might otherwise go unnoticed. His take? Stripping officers of these routine stops could hurt public safety. We wrapped up with a discussion about law enforcement engagement in schools—from the return of the DARE program to the need for officers to be visible, especially for younger kids. Sheriff Spurling also touched on some of the misconceptions people have about local law enforcement’s role in federal immigration laws, and how Washington state laws already prevent officers from asking about immigration status. All in all, a great, insightful conversation with Sheriff Spurling, and a big thanks to Our Community Credit Union for making these discussions possible! What do you think about the proposed traffic stop law? Send me your thoughts or questions to jeff@kmas.com KMAS is the local radio station in Mason County Washington.…
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KMAS & The Fjord Magazine

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 and clubs, he’s managed to navigate those environments while staying committed to his recovery. He acknowledges that avoiding post-show socializing might have slowed his networking, but he’s also seen a rise in comedians who are in recovery. Sam regularly performs at correctional facilities, including a set this weekend at the Shelton Correction Center. He finds purpose in bringing joy to inmates, particularly those nearing release, and values the opportunity to connect with them beyond just performing. His material has evolved over time—his early work focused heavily on addiction and homelessness, but now he explores themes like mental health, parenting, and relationships. He’s also preparing to record a new comedy album in March in Astoria on 3/8/2025. Beyond the stage, Sam's comedy has gained national attention. His last album hit #1 on iTunes' comedy charts, and he’s written for Newsweek, appeared on Bob and Tom, and competed in international comedy competitions. He recognizes that his comedy provides laughter, but for some, it also offers hope—a responsibility he takes seriously, while maintaining boundaries to protect his personal and professional life. You can catch Sam at South Puget Sound Community College this Saturday 2/15/2025, and later this month at Wild Child in Olympia for the grief-themed show Dead Mom, Dead Friend on 2/23/2025. For more info, visit SamMillerComedy.com. #Comedy #StandUp #SamMiller #Recovery #PNWComedy #LiveComedy #MentalHealth #AddictionRecovery #SheltonWA #OlympiaWA #ComedyShow #TARPReport #LaughThroughIt KMAS is the local radio station in Mason County Washington.…
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KMAS & The Fjord Magazine

1 Staying Connected, Cutting Bureaucracy, and Strengthening Parental Rights: A Conversation with Rep. Dan Griffey 22:22
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 education, highlighting the challenges of addressing these issues in a state as large as Washington. Government inefficiencies were another big topic—specifically, the excessive bureaucracy surrounding environmental studies and project approvals. We called out the staggering costs of studies, like the $25 million spent on the Capitol Lake project, and discussed how extreme political influences slow down decision-making. Dan suggested a bipartisan arbitration panel to streamline the process, and we both agreed that a more centrist, practical approach could help move important projects forward. We also touched on education, particularly the importance of parental involvement and transparency between schools and families. With declining enrollment and growing distrust in the education system, we discussed the controversial issue of 13-year-olds making mental health and reproductive decisions without parental input. Dan strongly opposed the idea, emphasizing the need for parental guidance, while I shared ways for citizens to engage in the legislative process and make their voices heard. Overall, we covered a lot of ground, from keeping government accountable to ensuring parents have a say in their children’s education. These conversations are ongoing, and I’ll keep you updated as things develop!…
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KMAS & The Fjord Magazine

1 Budget Challenges, Parental Rights, and Education Reform: This Weeks Conversation with Senator Drew MacEwen 17:36
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 responsible budgeting. When I asked about the mood in the Senate, he noted that the Governor's pragmatic approach to budgeting is appreciated, but he couldn’t speak on the ongoing negotiations. Education was another big topic. We discussed the financial challenges school districts face, with Senator MacEwen stressing the problem of unfunded mandates. He believes the state should set education standards but allow districts the flexibility to implement them as they see fit. Despite increased spending, test scores are dropping, and accountability needs to improve. We also talked about parental rights in education, mainly concerns over recent rollbacks of the Parental Rights Bill, allowing 13-year-olds to make healthcare decisions without parental involvement. That, along with the growing issue of disruptive students in classrooms, raises questions about where the focus should be—on individual students or the well-being of the entire class. We also touched on school discipline, tariffs impacting construction projects, and border security. Senator MacEwen shared a resolution he’s submitted to rename an overpass in Kitsap County to honor a well-known businessperson and conservationist.…
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, Seattle University, Miami, Oklahoma, and FC Oly’s USLW team will be there to talk about everything from recruiting and training regimens to NCAA showcases, USL and MLS pathways, agents, and even nutrition and exercise. If you’ve got questions, this is the place to ask them. We also get into FC Olympia’s upcoming USL2 and USLW campaigns, the return of former Shelton Highclimber and TESC Geoduck Manny Nicasio, and big matchups against teams like Ballard FC and Lane United. Plus, season tickets are available now, with the summer schedule dropping soon—along with some major announcements about game locations and new sponsors. If you're a soccer fan, player, or parent trying to navigate the sport, this is one you won’t want to miss! #FCOly #USL2 #USLW #CollegeSoccer #ProSoccer #SoccerRecruiting #USLSoccer #MLSSoccer #NWSL #SoccerParents #SoccerCoaches #SoccerTraining #SoccerPathway #QandA #WashingtonSoccer #BallardFC #LaneUnited #SoccerLife KMAS is the local radio station in Mason County Washington.…
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, golf rounds, and more) to event logistics, safety tips, and the growing impact of this community tradition. Plus, we dive into the Charlie’s Vision Foundation , a partnership helping to support the Mason County Sheriff’s Department and their efforts to secure a new command vehicle. If you’re planning to join, registration starts at 11:45 AM , and the first brave jumpers hit the icy water at 12:00 PM . Don’t forget foot protection (oyster shells are no joke!), a change of clothes , and cash for those raffle tickets . It’s all for a great cause, and it’s bound to be a fun day. Come out, bundle up, and we’ll see you at the plunge!…
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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 huge potential to get the word out through advocacy centers, like Turning Pointe, and those with various protective orders to get this card. On education, Travis had some eye-opening stats. Washington is seeing the lowest educational outcomes in over 30 years, even though funding for K-12 has increased by 110% over the last decade. However, he did discuss House Bill 1140, which would let funding follow the student, giving parents more control over their child’s education. What’s important is that this bill doesn’t take money away from public schools—it’s about adding flexibility, and it’s a model working well across the country. We also talked about school safety, specifically House Bill 1296, which could remove the Parents Bill of Rights Initiative. One big concern? Parents might face a 48-hour delay in being informed if their child was sexually assaulted by school staff. That delay shocked a lot of people in the public, but an amendment by Travis to ensure immediate notification was rejected in the education committee. Beyond that, we discussed how education funding could be better prioritized—right now, both representatives think too much is going to social programs instead of core academics. Another topic was the Mission Creek Women’s Correction Center after receiving a question from the KMAS audience. There’s been talk about it closing, but Representative Couture confirmed it’s not on the House GOP Budget chopping block. In fact, they’re looking at ways to make it more valuable, like helping with overflow from overcrowded youth detention facilities. I’ll keep asking about that through the session. Finally, we talked about the bigger picture in education—how to make public schools better, empower school boards, and reduce bureaucracy. There’s also a need to rethink funding models and hold decision-makers accountable. The message is clear: public schools need to succeed, but we also need to give parents more choices to ensure every kid gets the best education possible. Overall, lots of important issues and some good ideas on the table. If you have any questions to ask the representatives, send me an email, jeff@kmas.com. KMAS is the local radio station in Mason County Washington.…
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 difference for their constituents.…
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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 revenue growth but an $8-$12 billion state deficit due to overspending and misuse of one-time money. 3. Law enforcement recruitment struggles: Vilification of the profession is a barrier, not just funding. 4. Impact of Growth Management Act: Population doubled since the law was passed; updates needed for modern challenges. 5. Building relationships across the aisle to foster understanding and collaboration, especially post-COVID. Quotes from the Senator • "We can't continue to vilify law enforcement and expect people to want to join the profession." - Sen. Drew MacEwen • "Our state's population has doubled since the Growth Management Act was passed. It's time to reevaluate." - Sen. Drew MacEwen • "In Mason County, we love the rural lifestyle, but we need smarter policies to support growth and community well-being." - Sen. Drew MacEwen Do you have questions or thoughts: 1. What are the most pressing issues you’d like Senator Drew MacEwen to address this session? 2. Do you agree with the need to update the Growth Management Act to reflect modern challenges? 3. How do you think rural and urban areas can better collaborate on statewide policies…
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 kept pace. He broke down how the district is dealing with deficits in areas like special education, transportation, and substitute teachers. Inflation has only made these gaps wider, and it’s not just a Shelton problem—districts across the state are feeling the same strain. Wyeth emphasized that the district has tried to get ahead by making cuts early, but the challenges are still overwhelming. 2. Advocacy and Unfunded Mandates (7:17 - 13:01) We also talked about the mandates that come from the state and federal government. Wyeth explained how districts are required to meet specific expectations, like offering mental health services or supporting students with disabilities, but the funding doesn’t cover the costs. It’s a tough spot because these services are important, but districts end up scrambling to fill the gaps. Wyeth pointed out that while lawmakers talk about supporting education, the budgets don’t always reflect those priorities. He stressed the need for advocacy at every level to make sure schools get what they need. 3. Levy Limitations and Community Contributions (13:01 - 15:15) Wyeth and I spent some time discussing local levies and how they’re a key part of funding schools. He explained the challenges with levy caps and how communities like Shelton can’t raise as much money as wealthier areas. Even though the district is allowed to ask for a higher rate, Wyeth said they have to balance what the community can afford. He shared how this creates tough decisions for districts like Shelton, where the assessed property values just don’t generate enough revenue compared to other areas. 4. Staffing and Strategic Adjustments (15:15 - 17:31) Another big topic was the staffing and budget cuts the district is making to balance the books. Wyeth shared how they’ve already scaled back on substitute teachers, travel, and even heating costs. But, despite these cuts, they’re working to preserve key services like mental health support and safety personnel. He talked about the challenges of reducing staff while still meeting the district’s goals around literacy and social-emotional support for students. 5. Oversight and Accountability (17:31 - 20:29) I asked about oversight and how the district ensures its financial practices are solid. Wyeth explained that they work closely with auditors, the state’s Office of Superintendent of Public Instruction, and regional education support teams. He also talked about how inflation and multi-year contracts have added to the financial pressures, making it even harder to plan budgets. It’s clear they’re doing everything they can to stay accountable while dealing with these challenges. 6. Shelton Promise: Tuition-Free College Opportunity (20:29 - 27:45) One of the most exciting things we talked about was the Shelton Promise. This initiative allows graduates of Shelton School District in 2024 and 2025 to attend Evergreen State College tuition-free. Wyeth explained how this partnership came about and how it’s designed to give local students more access to higher education, especially those who might not think college is affordable. On top of tuition, there’s a sliding scale for housing and other costs, making this a huge opportunity for families. It’s a great example of how the district is working to create more opportunities for students. 7. Community Engagement and Future Plans (27:45 - 28:17) As we wrapped up, Wyeth encouraged the community to stay involved and ask questions. He reminded folks that school board meetings are a chance to voice concerns, even if there isn’t a lot of back-and-forth during the meetings. He also welcomed questions to be sent his way, so the district can continue to address the issues that matter most to the community.…
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 school needs. Two New Proposals: EP&O Levy and Capital Projects Levy (2:01–8:00) Dr. Gibbon detailed the two ballot measures. The EP&O levy funds vital programs like athletics and specialized staffing, while the Capital Projects Levy targets facility and technology upgrades. By scaling back costs and listening to community input, the district presents a more affordable and impactful plan for voters. Cost-Saving and Strategic Planning (8:01–12:12) We explored the benefits of short-term levies over long-term bonds, particularly in reducing taxpayer costs and enhancing planning flexibility. Dr. Gibbon used comparisons to mortgage structures, emphasizing how shorter commitments save interest and allow for more responsive project funding. Details of the Levies (12:13–16:50) Dr. Gibbon explained how the $19 million Capital Projects Levy, significantly reduced from previous proposals, will fund targeted improvements, including relocating bus facilities and expanding classroom spaces. This careful reimagining offers taxpayers better value while meeting critical needs. Community Engagement and Value Proposition (16:51–19:54) Through community meetings, the district has demonstrated how these levies address local priorities. Dr. Gibbon illustrated how strategic investments, like parking improvements and reduced interest costs, provide long-term benefits for students and families. Current Achievements and Future Vision (19:55–22:10) Dr. Gibbon celebrated recent milestones, such as surpassing state test score averages and launching an Algebra 1 class for eighth graders. These levies are presented as key to sustaining and building on this momentum, promising a bright future for the district.…
1. Introduction and Historical Context of the Sheriff’s Office (0:00 - 2:28) When I sat down with Sheriff Ryan Spurling for this Sheriff’s Sit-Down, we kicked things off by reflecting on the history of the Mason County Sheriff’s Office. Sheriff Spurling shared some fascinating details about his predecessors, like Sheriff Salisbury, who served for 16 years—the longest tenure in the county’s history. It was incredible to hear how the leadership over the years has built such a strong and positive culture, one that Sheriff Spurling is committed to continuing. 2. Accessibility and Community Engagement (2:28 - 4:18) One thing that always impresses me about Sheriff Spurling is how accessible he is—not just as a leader but as a part of this community. He pointed out that Mason County’s smaller size allows the Sheriff’s Office to have a direct connection with the people it serves. We also talked about the Belfair satellite office and how it has really improved efficiency and made law enforcement more visible in the northern part of the county. It’s clear that staying connected with citizens is a priority for him and his team. 3. Proactive Policing and Crime Prevention (4:18 - 6:48) During our conversation, Sheriff Spurling emphasized the importance of proactive policing and being visible in the community. He brought up some concerns about a state-level push to centralize sheriff appointments, which would take away local control from residents. Ryan made a compelling case for keeping the power in the hands of the people—after all, who knows a community better than the folks who live there? 4. Community Policing and Reporting Tools (7:59 - 16:29) We also dove into the topic of community policing and the new tools that help people report crimes. Sheriff Spurling explained how online reporting has been a game-changer, making it easier to track crime trends and educate residents. He shared how these tools allow the office to identify patterns and work with neighborhoods to prevent crimes before they happen. It was inspiring to see how data and technology are being used to make Mason County safer. 5. Scams and Public Awareness (16:29 - 18:59) Now, this is an important one—scam calls. Sheriff Spurling gave some great advice on how to handle those sketchy calls from people pretending to be law enforcement. He reminded us all to verify anything suspicious by calling the non-emergency line. It’s great to hear this kind of practical guidance because these scams can catch anyone off guard, especially when they use urgency to pressure you into acting. 6. Future Plans for the Sheriff’s Office (18:59 - 21:00) Looking ahead to 2025, Sheriff Spurling shared some exciting plans. They’re putting together a proactive enforcement team to tackle specific issues like traffic safety, burglaries, and even environmental concerns. He explained how this team will collaborate with other departments, like code enforcement and health services, to take on challenges that require a combined effort. It’s clear that he’s passionate about making a real difference in the community. 7. Community Events and Engagement (24:20 - 26:24) Finally, we talked about one of my favorite topics—community events. The Polar Plunge is coming up in February, and it’s always a blast. Sheriff Spurling highlighted how this event supports local emergency services and brings everyone together for a good cause. I could see how much pride he takes in events like this, which really show off the unique spirit of Mason County. If you’ve never been, it’s worth checking out, even if you’re just there to cheer folks on! #MasonCountySheriffsOffice #LawEnforcement #CommunityPolicing #CrimePrevention #PublicSafety #LocalGovernment #PolarPlunge2025 #CommunityStrong #SupportFirstResponders #LocalEvents #MasonCountyEvents #PacificNorthwest #masoncountywa #ScamAwareness #FraudPrevention #AskTheSheriff…
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