Minutes | RWC

Republican Women's Club of Mason County

Wednesday, September 6, 2023

April Pooler welcomed and started the meeting at 1:00 pm. An invocation by Cynthia Radtkel and a flag salute by Steve Duenkel were given.

Guest Speaker

Steve Duenkel - County Auditor

Steve provided a concise overview of his upcoming topics, commencing with an overview of the 2024 financial budget. He distributed copies for the attendees to peruse. Subsequently, he delved into the very interesting subject of land and title fraud. He divulged details about a project his department is developing, named Fraud Notify, to benefit Mason County residents. The audience posed questions, showing a strong interest in the discussion.

Election information was then relayed, and topics included:

Accessing the elections website
Canvasing logs
Restructuring of the ballot observation area for an increase in observing and space for ballot processing
Surveillance video locations for drop boxes
The meaning of ballot harvesting and the law concerning this
K & H printing is allowing for observers on the day of ballot printing

Questions were taken from the audience.

Announcements

Survey questions and answers around the topic of the RWMC format and structure were discussed. Topics ranged from:
How often to meet
Location
Time/Day
Preferred subjects and topics
Events
2024 eboard nominees and committee

The meeting adjourned at 2:05

Minutes respectfully submitted by Cynthia Radtke

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No Meetings in July & August

Republican Women's Club of Mason County

Wednesday, June 7, 2023

Amber Oliver welcomed and started the meeting at 1:00 pm. An invocation by Pastor Bill and a flag salute by Amber Oliver were given. Recognition of elected’s and PCOs was done.

Becky Cronquist gave reports regarding the treasury balance, and Lorilyn Rogers reported on the Sunshine fund recognizing June birthdays and thank you cards. Membership counts have increased by a few numbers from mailing and the tea event.

Guest Speakers

Melissa Casey, Community Health Manager, and Emily Layman, Health Educator, spoke to us about Mason County Public Health & Human Services.

Programs discussed included:

Communicable Diseases
Behavioral Health
Youth Substance Use Prevention
Health Education
Rental Assistance, Eviction Prevention, Homelessness
Maternal Child Health
Spanish Outreach
Emergency Preparedness
Oral Health

A new position for the county was recently put into place: an Epidemiologist focusing on data analysis, Jacob Ritter. Questions were taken from the audience.

Announcements

Amber Oliver gave an overview of the Special Session
Today, Wednesday, June 7th, Ballot Observation training at 5:30, followed by a picnic at Leslie Peterson’s house
Upcoming RWMC meetings:
- No business meetings for the months of July and August
- June 26th next meeting of the City Counsel at the Civic Center
Candidates in the Park - July 8th - requested signing up for volunteering
Expo & Bite of Shelton - July 21st - requested signing up for volunteering
Sunday, August 27th - picnic cookoff
The next RWMC meeting is September 6, 2023, at RR Tap Station, 1:00 p.m.

The meeting adjourned at 2:05

Minutes respectfully submitted by Cynthia Radtke

---- May ---

Republican Women's Club of Mason County

Wednesday, May 3, 2023

Amber Oliver welcomed and started the meeting at 1:00 pm. Invocation and prayer were given. Recognition of elected’s and PCOs was done.

Becky Cronquist gave reports regarding the treasury balance, and the Sunshine fund recognized May birthdays.

Guest Speakers

Amber Oliver shared an overall report about legislation this past term. She discussed various bills and laws that had passed. She recognized specific legislators for their excellent work. Questions were taken from the audience.

Announcements

Upcoming RWMC meetings:
- Wednesday, June 7th at RR Tap Station, at 1:00 pm
  - Mason County Health Department
- Wednesday, June 21st at RR Tap Station at 6:00 pm
Candidates in the Park - July 8th
Expo & Bite of Shelton - July 21st

The meeting adjourned at 2:05

Minutes respectfully submitted by Cynthia Radtke

Republican Women's Club of Mason County

Wednesday, April 5, 2023

April Pooler welcomed and started the meeting at 1:00 pm. Invocation and prayer were given. Recognition of elected’s and PCOs was done.

Reports were given by Becky Cronquists regarding the treasury balance and the Sunshine fund recognized April birthdays (and some in March). Ginny Brush gave an update on Membership information, signing up on the website and showing the “Platinum Membership Reagan Basket” for a drawing later in the year.

Guest Speakers

Patti McClean our county assessor spoke on information regarding the function, and the elements of what an assessor’s position is responsible for. She discussed statistical analysis, sales analysis, property tax relief programs, board of equalization, and levies. Questions were taken from the audience.

Lisa Frazier our county treasurer spoke on approved local levies, expenses, and how they are dispersed pertaining to each district in the county. Billed in taxes and collection results in 2022. County expenses and % for each in various charts. Payment plans and programs are available for tax-delinquent accounts and deductions. Questions were taken from the audience.

Announcements

The next RWMC meeting is on Wednesday, April 19th at RR Tap Station, at 6:00 pm
New RWMC meeting Saturday, April 22nd at Burger Claim in Belfair,, 11:30 - 2:00
Patti McClean will be there and a legislative update given.
May meetings guest speakers will be school board members and school topics
May fundraiser - Tea & Fashion Show at Colonial House, May 13th from 11:00 - 2:00
Mt Olive honoring veterans and First responders.

The meeting adjourned at 2:05

Minutes respectfully submitted by Cynthia Radtke

Republican Women's Club of Mason County

St. Patrick’s Shenanigans Celebration

Wednesday, March 1, 2023

Welcome & Reports

Amber Oliver welcomed and started the meeting at 1:00 pm. Invocation and prayer were given. Recognition of the elected and PCO’s was done.

A bit of fun was intermingled throughout the afternoon as we did a fun celebration of St. Patrick’s day with Limerick fun and trivia questions with prizes.

Treasurer report was given by Becky Cronquist and Membership report by Ginny Brush. Lorilyn Rogers recognized Cynthia Stang for all her hard work and dedication for updating us all on the legislation. March birthdays were also recognized.

Guest Speaker

Our guest speaker, Mark Neary shared details about our Mason County advisory boards, commissions and councils. He took time to explain various ones and their purposes. He also shared open seats for a few boards like the Parks & Trails, Transportation Improvement Program, and Noxious Weed Control boards. He reminded us that the county website has all the current openings available. Explanation was given of the process of being chosen for each board. Questions were taken from the audience.

Announcements

Reminder of the Lincoln Day Dinner Saturday, March 25, 2023, at Shelton Transit Center - providing cakes, need to be at the Transit Center by 4:00 p.m
Our guest speaker for April’s meeting will be County Assessor - Patti McClean
We will be hosting an additional meeting in April to accommodate our northern members at the Burger Claim in Belfair, on Saturday, April 15, 2023 at 11:00 a.m. Looking for speakers with knowledge on tax topics.
Legislature update by Cynthia Stang and Amber Oliver
Our next meeting will be Wednesday, March 15th - St. Patrick’s Shenanigans Celebration - guest speaker, Melissa Upson, upcoming election open positions
Reminder of the upcoming open positions in our community and to take the flyers provided and pass out to friends and community members who might be interested.

Meeting adjourned at 2:45.

Minutes respectfully submitted by Cynthia Radtke

Republican Women's Club of Mason County

Wednesday, February 1, 2023

Opening & Announcements

Vice Chair – April Pooler opens meeting
Flag salute & Invocation
Welcome and recognition of our Elected’s, Candidates and PCO’s: Sharon Trask, Casey Salisbury, Kevin Shutty

Reports

Treasurer - Becky Cronquist
Membership – Ginny Brush or April Pooler
Sunshine Fund – Lorilyn Rogers
Liaisons: Chamber / MCRCC (Ldd/cakes)
Volunteers – looking for more to be our point person on school boards and advisory boards within the county

Speaker

Citizen Advisory Board Committees – George Blush/Dan Armstrong & April Pooler

Announcements

Location change reminder – RR Tap Station is our new location for lunch and dinner meetings. Goal is to have quarterly meetings up north
LLD Saturday, March 25, 2023, at Shelton Transit Center - Need Cakes - Olene
Day at the Capital, February 24th – WFRW Washington Federation of Republican Women reserved legislative building from 10am – 2pm. Information was given about what to bring, representative appointments and reminders to wear red.
Reminder of next meeting on Feb. 15, same location. Speaker will be Melissa Upson/LDD and how our two groups will be working together.

Closing

Vice Chair closes meeting

Respectfully submitted by Cynthia Radtke

Republican Woman’s Club of Mason County

Wednesday, January 4, 2023

Opening & Announcements

Vice Chair – April Pooler opened meeting at 1:00 pm
Flag salute by Sharon Trask and Invocation by Pat Tarzwell
Welcome and introduction of our Elected’s, Candidates and PCO’s and new Eboard members

Reports

Thank and recognize our outgoing board: Lorilyn Rogers and Leslie Petersen
Becky Cronquist discussed profit from Christmas party and shared current balance
April Pooler – website and google drive
Ginny - membership information and what dues are used for

Announcements

April discussed the ongoing homeschool scholarship fund, 6 families at this time and option on website for continued support access
Membership flyer for various levels of support
Encouraged increase of membership of people and common ground
New location for both lunch and dinner: Railroad Tap Station starting in February
Discussion on “new” republican state chair, committee woman and man
Activities discussed from previous years to get new members and volunteers
Leslie Petersen:
- Friday, Jan. 6th at 7:30 a.m. – Shelton Yacht Club – legislative send off
- Monday, January 9th from 11:00 – 1:00 p.m. - Facts not Fear for Medical Freedom at the steps of the Capital in Olympia – Opening day for Legislative Session
Guest Speaker Ideas:
- County & State Government rules for county/city issues
- Legislators
- Local school board members and issues
Concerns addressed on school issues
Discussion on getting involved in state legislative issues NOW
Central Committee Chair – Melissa Upton
- LLD - Saturday, March 25, 2023 at Shelton Transit Center
- Monthly meetings – 4th Monday of the month, Jan. 23rd at 6:00 p.m. and the Shelton Christian School – speaker from Mom’s for Liberty

Closing

Meeting adjourned at 2:15

Respectfully submitted,

Cynthia Radtke

Republican Woman’s Club

Of Mason County

Wednesday, October 5, 2022

President Leslie Peterson opened the meeting at 12:55 p.m. David Windom, Mason County Health Department, led the flag salute and Jayni Kamin did the Invocation. Elected officials and candidates were recognized.

Candidate Dan Griffey bought a table at the Power of the Purse event and donated two tickets to the club.

Candidate Steve Duenkel is hosting a movie matinee Saturday, October 15, 2022 at 10:30 a.m. at the Shelton Theater.

League of Women Voters is hosting Speed Dating with the Candidates at the Civic Center October 13, 2022 at 6:30.

Reports

Becky Cronquist gave the treasure’s report.

Vice President Lorilyn Rogers reported that there is Ballot observing and Drop Box observing training on October 12, 2022. Fireside Chat on October 19, 2022 at 6:00 pm at the Railroad Station Tap Room.

Volunteer Coordinator April Pooler reported that volunteers needed for telephone calls, sign waving and letters to the editor for the election. Volunteers needed at the schools for hearing and vision screening.

Candidate Drew MacEwen urged everyone to get out the Vote.

Program

Kevin Shutty, Mason County Commissioner, gave a presentation on the mental health and fentanyl status in Mason County. They have an inpatient facility in the Old PUD Building on Cota Street. They have a host program for the homeless and a crisis line. They partner with local law enforcement. Questions were taken from the audience.

David Windom, Mason County Health Services Director, gave a report on the homeless in Mason County. The biggest problems are the intentional homeless who do not want to participate in any programs, homeless with mental health problems and drug addiction. Questions were taken from the audience.

Meeting adjourned at 2:10

Respectfully submitted,

Karen Barr

Republican Women’s Monthly Meeting Friday, September 11, 2020

Taylor’s Station Restaurant

President Connie Wilson called the meeting to order at 12:00 noon.

Flag Salute by Terry Peterson and Prayer Marty McClendon

Marty McClendon spoke on the 9/11 19th Anniversary

Important Guests: Marty McClendon running as a write-in Candidate for 10th Congressional Seat

Membership Report: None.

Treasurer’s Report: Attached

Speaker: Sharon Hanek who ran a successful write-in primary vote a few years back.

Topic: How to run a successful write-in candidacy and what pitfalls to avoid. There are differences between running a statewide write-in campaign and a regional write-in campaign. Sharon discussed the How To and What She Learned from her candidacy. She discussed what constitutes a Write-In Vote and how to register your write-in candidacy with the Secretary of State and PDC in order for the votes to be counted. She discussed the issues around ranked-voting and that the legislature wants to eliminate write-in voting. She also discussed the two initiatives: I-1109 on Sex Education in schools and I-1114 Limiting the Governor’s Power. Both Initiatives were sent around for signatures.

Marty McClendon spoke on his write-in candidacy for the 10th Congressional District and the policies he supports.

Republican Party Report: Leslie Peterson spoke on the Back the Blue and Black Lives Matter rally/protest on Sunday September 6th. It was a successful rally for Back the Blue. There was free pizza, drinks, and snacks donated by a secret someone. We took donations and raised about $200 for :Charley’s Vision to Support Law Enforcement, a scholarship program for young people. Leslie also said we need ballot watchers.

Other Reports: Ardean Anvik reported that our education classes are in limbo until the COVID-19 has run its course; Alpine Way won’t allow us to use their facilities. A further report will be given in January, 2021.

Other general information: Handouts: The Republican Party is sponsoring two write-in campaigns. Marty McClendon for 10th Congressional Office and Joshua Freed for Lt. Governor. They also provided a suggested list of candidates to support in the upcoming election.

Next Meeting: Friday, October 2nd, 2020 @ Taylor Station Patio. People will be notified if any changes.

Meeting adjourned at:1:00 p.m.

Respectfully Submitted by:

Ardean A. Anvik, Temporary Secretary

Mason County Republican Women’s Club March 6, 2020

The meeting was held at Sisters’ Restaurant in downtown Shelton

**11:55 Temporary Chair April Pooler opened the meeting with the flag salute and invocation which was given by Lorilyn Rogers..Lorilyn was welcomed back to the club meeting after a medical leave to care for her son… She gave thanks to all for all the support and prayers.

**The Chair then introduced Jaycle Osterberg, Executive Director of the nonprofit Quixote Communities. She discussed the project to build 30 small homes in an area rented from the City of Shelton. These small houses for homeless veterans will be in a community setting at 2471 N 131th St. She spoke of the benefits of this area – i.e. close to the hospital, the schools, shopping.

The city last April voted to grant a lease to Panza for construction of this project. The lease is a 30 year agreement and Panza will pay $5000 a year to lease about 3 acres. The Panza name is taken from the Don Quixote and his aide, Panza. Forms were available to encourage donations to the ‘Adopt a Home Program” and to provide signup for volunteers to help with various activities at the complex –Panza is a 501c3 organization. Check payable to Quixote Communities with mail address at 3350 Mottman Rd. SW, Olympia 98512. She described the project as 30 tiny homes and a large community building with supportive staff for homeless veterans in Mason County. There will be a full time case manager working one on one with residents with help such as: vets working with vets; transportation; services and resources in community; recovery meetings; and community meetings. Some of the rules will be: 30% of a vet’s income to be paid in rent with a lease agreement on code of conduct including no use of alcohol or illegal drugs on site. There will be zero tolerance for assault and violence. If a vet does not conform with the lease agreement, they will be told to leave. The nonprofit will pay development costs but may seek help with operation and capital costs from the city/county.

The village plans to open a new complex in Oregon in August dependent on permits. They do install cameras to monitor activities and ID people who break the laws.. such as stealing. Food will be stored in central unit where there will be stoves, dishwashers, refrigeration available and computer access. Each unit does have its own shower. A car is allowed on site. Homes will be checked for maintenance and hygiene.

She took questions from the group. April thanked Jaycle and provided a box to be sent around for people who had signed the adopt a Home Program forms.. There is a website: volunteer@quixotecommunities.org and info@quixotecommunities.org . Phone contact is (360) 338-0451

****The chair then opened the club business meeting

**Secretary Minutes: February Minutes on club website http://mcwomensclub.wixsite.com/mcwc

**Ida Sevier (Membership, sunshine, chamber) reported 6 birthdays and 7 new members. Commented on Chamber of Commerce meeting: subject : “Crime in Shelton”. A report that day stated that Shelton had one of highest rates crime in state but they were not violent type. The police now have 2 bicycle policemen on patrol.

**Arden Anvik,historian: reported that the last discussion group meeting did not meet as Alpine way closed its area to meetings due to the corunaflu problem. The group will start up again in the fall: 1st Wed. in October

**Mary Jo Cady, treasurer reported that the month income was $370.07 and ending balance $4717.03

**Leslie Peterson reported on the MCRCC events –the County Meeting is every 4th Monday of the Month at 6 PM at PUD #3 auditorium

**Phil Wilson , MCRCC chair, reported that the County caucus will be held on Sat. Mach 28th at 10 AM at PUD#3 auditorium .. All will be welcome.. the delegates from precincts will vote on by laws and resolutions in preparation for the state caucus.

*Ginny Beech spoke of volunteers who will pick up medications for people concerned about the corunaflu on their immune system and who want to avoid travel during the flu season.. her phone is (360) 401 9816

Annoucements: Kevin Shutty Campaign kickoff April 2 , 5:30 pm at Alderbrook clubhouse

Next meeting: April 3: possible topic Mason General Hospital

May 1 guest will be Secretary of State, Kim Wyman

July 24: Candidates in the Park

A card and gift were given to Beverly McCurdy who is moving back to Alaska

***Mention was made of campaign of Elizabeth for Congress..WA06 Cleanupthehouse.com

Dr. Elizabeth Kreiselmaier 17 years in educational research, stands for strong families, constitution etc.

Adjourned at 1 PM Jean Springer , secretary.

Mason County Republican Women’s Club February 7, 2020

The meeting was held at Sisters’ Restaurant in downtown Shelton

**11:55 Chair Connie Wilson opened the meeting with the flag salute and invocation.

**She welcomed the large group that were attending this meeting and then thanked them for coming and asked each to introduce their self and state how they had become aware of this meeting. Several had seen the notice in the paper. .. There were about 40 people there.

She then announced that two sympathy cards were being circulated…one for Rep. Griffey on the death of his mother and the other for Rep. McEwen for death of brother in law. .

**She introduced Sandi Dahlquist who announced a meeting of Puget Sound Patriots at the Hub in Belfair on Monday Feb. 17 at 2 to 5 PM, 111 NE Old Belfair Highway. Keynote speaker will be Marty McClendon who will discuss legislation, religious rights. It will be followed by a Q and A.

** The chair then introduced Commissioner Kevin Shutty who is in the last year of his first term on the commission. He is running for reelection. He expressed his thanks for being asked to speak to the group. He stated that Mason County was the only peninsula county with majority Republicans on the commission. He also commented that it was critical to help in campaigns. He did speak of the good work by Republicans on the national scene and the State of the Union message on Feb. 4.

When he was elected, Mason County had budget problems with only $150,000 cash on hand. They have now made budget reforms so that there is a million dollars in the rainy day fund. There has been improved conversation between planning committees for the future budgets and accomplishments. They are making it easier to make repairs on houses with some permits not required and some standards for materials lowered.
The last tax reforms have encouraged opportunity zones and so there has been more investment in the county. One hope is to renew the city fleet (police and county workers) by working in a private-public partnership with Enterprise. The GMA and UGA put limits on much that could be done. He is beginning his campaign and left literature for review and would appreciate help ..

To learn more about Kevin and get involved, visit: www.kevinshutty.com

He took several questions.

Many of them concerned the homeless problem such as housing. Growth management puts limitation of facilities to deal with many of the problems. The planning department is working to speed up the permit process and to partner with the city. There was a comment on use of old buildings… but he pointed out that is city and not county. Comments were made that the State government wants to empty Western State and send wards to the county…there will be a need of sites to take on this problem.

They also need an adequate flow of money to veteran services. There should be penalties if people break laws.

12:35: The chair thanked Kevin for his input and opened the business meeting

** Secretary: January 3 minutes on table and on website: http://mcwomensclub.wixsite.com/mcwc

**Mary Jo Cady, treasurer, reported that the balance was $4040.46 in January and ending balance is $4365.48

The balance in Community Kitchen fund is $309.60 and Veterans’ Housing Fund is $75.00

**Ida Sevier ,membership.. spoke of several birthdays in February and then welcomes 6 new members.

She did not go to the Chamber Gala but hoped to go to the next event.

**Ardean Anvik, historian: spoke of his discussion group at Alpine Way on 1st and 3rd Wed. each month at 1 in TV room. There is a DVD lecture and then discussion of subjects.

**The club is looking for a volunteer for the Vice Chair position. Lorilyn Rogers had to resign to spend full time with her injured son who is now hopefully coming home for care.

Any suggestions for future programs will be much appreciated

**Leslie Peterson, central committee.. spoke of caucuses coming up on Feb 29 at 10 AM with doors open at 9:30 AM. She passed out information with a website where you can find out where your caucus will be held.

www.masoncountyrepublicans.org or contact your precinct committee officer.

**April Pooler, Executive Director of Quixote Community Tiny Homes will present the next program on March 6.

Meeting adjourned at 12:55

Submitted by Jean Springer, Secretary.

Mason County Republican Women’s Club January 3, 2020

The meeting was held at Sisters’ Restaurant in downtown Shelton

**11:55 Chair Connie Wilson opened the meeting with the flag salute and invocation.

**The first matter presented was that the Rogers’ family is facing long term care of their son, Simon. He was struck by a car on Dec. 12th while trying to direct traffic around a fallen tree. He was air lifted to Harborview in Seattle with multiple skull fractures and brain trauma. Lorilyn and Bob are with him and welcome visits and continued prayers. They can be reached through CARING BRIDGE . Friends are asking for help in clearing out Simon’s apartment and putting his possessions into storage… donations are accepted. He is in Harborview Hospital in Seattle, Room 353. Lorilyn announced the need to quit her position as Vice Chair to MCRWC.

** The chair then introduced Mark Miloscia, Executive Director of Family Policy Institute of Washington.

He was a Democrat representative in Olympia but meetings with the Democrat caucus became very difficult. After much thought, he became a Republican and ran for Senate but was not elected.

He complimented Mason County for still having conservative representation in the legislature. He had moved to Federal Way 30 years ago and said it has totally changed politically. His key focus is on Faith and Family- both of which are being eliminated from public life.

He was in the air force flying B 52 bombers; worked for Boeing on the B-1 at Boeing Field; taught school for 12 years; and worked for Goodwill Industries as VP. He then began to consider the eternal question “Who am I”?? He attended church and has turned to public life.

He states that King, Pierce, and Snohomish Counties follow the definition of insanity by doing the same thing over and over and expecting a different result. He spoke of the homeless situation where there is no right or wrong and of the constant efforts to indoctrinate the young to progressive ideas. He expressed the need for judges who uphold the Constitution and then referred to the case of a Washington florist who refused to design arrangements for a homosexual couple’s wedding. That case is now to the Supreme Court. Open for questions: discussed Planned Parenthood using tax money to advance their agenda and to sexually brain wash students in schools. Drug use is actually encouraged with use of taxpayer money. His final remarks: The society needs a great awakening. He refers to lack of church as back to pagan thinking.. One needs values or they turn evil.

Before the Family Policy Institute, there was no clear voice in Olympia. The battles for life, religious freedom, marriage, Christian social justice, and parental rights now have a strong effective advocate in the halls of the State Capitol. He asked all to join the movement. Get informed; stand with others; sign up for emails; use social media; and get legislative alerts. Go to info@fpiw.org to find Institute’s description and membership information. Issues: Life, Marriage and Family, Religious Liberties, Parental Rights Christian Social Justice.

12:40 Chair Connie Wilson opens business meeting with reminder that 2020 is an election year

*November meeting minutes are on table and on http://mcwomensclub.wixsite.com/mcwc

*Need volunteer for vice chair office

*Sign up for Community Meal passed around

*Dues may be paid for year 2020 to Mary Jo Cady ,Treasurer.. $20 for member.. $10 for associate.

*A card was passed out to be returned with ideas for 2020 lectures.

** Treasurer report.. Mary Jo Cady: Starting balance: $ 3547.63 and ending balance: $4040.46

Includes donations, dues, and Christmas luncheon (cost to MCRWC $42.24)at Alderbrook.

** Ida Sevier .sunshine… 5 birthdays in December and 6 in January

**Leslie Peterson speaks of March for Life .. St. Edwards is providing transportation with 2 small buses.. meet there for pro-life Mass at 9 a.m. vans leave at 10:30 am for Olympia. The March is at noon with return to St. Edwards about 2 pm. Signup sheets in narthex. The date is January 21.

**History…Ardean Anvik .. Study group at Alpine Way 1st and 3rd Wednesdays. January 15 will start off with study of prayer in school.

**April Pooler reports value of $500 given to Turning Pointe

**Leslie Peterson on Lorilyn: help by donating on social media Caring Bridge.. The ROTC will help on Sat. January 11 to clean out Simon’s apartment to be stored in 10x10 units at $100 a month..donations appreciated.

**Announcement : Celebration of life of Ralph Ervin will be at Timberland Library on January 11, 2020 at 3:00 p.m. The notice was in Mason County Journal of January 2, 2020 .

** Next meeting on February 7

Meeting adjourned at 12:55 Submitted by Jean Springer, secretary.

Mason County Republican Women’s Club November 1, 2019

The meeting was held at Sister’s Restaurant in downtown Shelton

*11:55 Chair Connie Wilson opened the meeting. It was followed by flag salute and invocation. She then introduced State Representative Drew MacEwen who was speaking on the subject of state laws regarding the transfer or removal of unauthorized campsites.

Rep MacEwen commenced by stating that the law is clear and that camping is permitted on public lands. He pointed out the inequities since the public must pay to ‘camp’ but it appears that homeless camping is not under the same state laws.. The executive branch may tell state patrol to stand down.

Some advocacy groups want to open state parks (before summer season) to homeless camps. Our problem is the 9th circuit court.. it has ruled that it is discriminatory to remove homeless from public lands.

He says that the public has a moral obligation to help those not able to help selves. But there is an erosion of law as some groups are entitled. Groups choose their life style and costs taxpayers millions.

He spoke of his travels as state Rep. and on one occasion went to Boston, MA where he was impressed that this great city has almost no homeless problems. .. and was very clean. Again, the ninth circuit made our rules which are different than in Boston (but can affect them on Federal Level)

He commented that laws not consistent i.e. this area provides the injection sites but then makes laws against vaping. Asked about use of MacNeil Island.. said that it is very hard to find and keep workers there. People not meet requirements and not easy to work there-

Asked about more houses.. Dems want to build more houses at exorbitant cost … kids in Shelter require need of vettting those in charge which creates problems. Churches can help. GMA makes land use limited.. said that change from 3 day notice for landlords to 21 days means landlords have to subsidize 3 weeks with no rent.. so they sell houses. Older folks retire from expensive houses to small ones and use up the available market.

Asked to comment on the ballot due November 6:

The advisory vote is expensive way of letting taxpayers know how representatives voted. Your vote does not change anything.

The state has mismanaged transportation and the fees to cover the bonds etc. have driven up the license fee. Voting against the fee will not change that and the govt has to raise the money somewhere. He votes YES for the 30 dollar tabs and will vote NO for I 88 which now allows discrimination …

Comment on Daylight saving time change… state vote was for PDT but nothing can change until the federal govt makes the law.

12:35 Chairman Wilson thanks Drew and begins the business part of the meeting.

**Secretary’s report: October minutes are at website www.mcwomensclub.wixsite.com/mcwc

**Treasurer’s Report: On Nov. 1, beginning balance was $3957.68 and ending balance is $4026.74

**Vice chair Lorilyn Rogers announces January 3 meeting features Mark Miloscia of Family Policy Institute of Washington. January 22 will be the March for Life

Also that there is signup sheet for people interested in a voter registration class

**Ida Sevier with Membership /Sunshine committee sent birthday greetings to 1 member and commented that birth dates are not on the newly published membership lists. She attended Chamber meeting when Mila Johnstone gave interesting talk about small business and use of internet to build network.

The new membership list is available at front desk.

**Historian Ardean Anvik described the discussion at October 16 meeting of his study group and encouraged all to attend November 6 meeting at 1 at Alpine TV room. It meets 1st and 3rd Wednesday.

**Election of officers… no volunteers were found thus the same board for next year. Leslie Peterson makes motion to accept the nominees. Seconded by Beverly McCurdy. There was unanimous acceptance. !!!

**Kathy McDowell and April Pooler spoke of Christmas Lunch at Alderbrook restaurant with choices at the Pasta Bar for $20 each. Christmas Swags can be ordered and will be delivered at Christmas lunch. They are $12 each in fundraiser for Lions club ..checks to Shelton Lions Club , PO Box 2443, Shelton WA 98584

The sign up sheet for the Community meal is at front desk

Meeting closed at 12:50 PM

Submitted by Jean Springer, Secretary

Mason County Republican Women’s Club October 4, 2019

The meeting was held at Sister’s Restaurant in downtown Shelton

*11:45 Vice -Chair Lorilyn Rogers announced the date of Community Kitchen (October 19) and sent a sign up sheet around asking for help. Chairman Connie Wilson is on vacation.

*11:55 Vice Chair Lorilyn Rogers opened the meeting. It was followed by invocation by Alice Wells and the flag salute.

**Lorilyn then greeted the County and City officials present and gave Mary Jo Cady the floor to conduct the interview with the two Shelton School Board Position 1 Candidates. The candidates are Sandy Tarzwell and Cheryl Williams. They were given two minutes to make statement and introduce themselves. That was followed by several prepared questions from Mary Jo and then questions from audience.

These questions involved information about the results of the McCleary decision..thoughts about Charter schools, home school and running start, and need for more bonds or levies. Final question: what are your priorities? There were then several questions from the group such as what to do if a bond levy fails? How do you work towards 100% graduation rates? How do you prepare for the 21st century with 20th century tools?

Sandy Tazwell states: she has been 5 years on the board and wants to upgrade system, integrate new technology and expand opportunities….they have to plan construction levies day by day; rely on levies for Maintenance. They need many options to afford needs. They have to be flexible to work with needs of the districts and mediate problems with them. They have to monitor students and teachers to find any problem areas and cope with them. Many of the needs are based on how much help from state is available. For some problems, lawyers help make decisions.

She comments that regular periods and hours should be required so that students and parents can plan. Teachers now have time away from students to make class plans but this timing is not regular … this could be a regular event so that plans for the students can be made. If classes overcrowded should be able to hire more and involve parents as needed. She supports 3 weeks of regular hours.

Cheryl Williams: she would like to involve more people… and gave examples.. agrees with the use of charter school, running start etc. – anything that works to help students. With new construction, there now is more space and smaller class size but need more . There could be special charters for home school if needed. There should be a priority of more preschool and after school programs. Get the word out about preschool available.

12:50 Vice Chair Lorilyn Rogers thanks guests and starts business meeting. She first mentions that Marilyn Laubach is at Shelton Rehab after a fall and that Irene Goldsby had heart surgery but should be home this coming weekend.

**Secretary’s report: Jean Springer: several copies are available here and the September report is at website www.mcwomensclub.wixsite.com/mcwc

Ida Sevier moved to accept the minutes as written. Mary Jo Cady seconded the motion, all voted positive

**Treasurer’s report ..Mary Jo Cady.. beginning club balance was $3939.35 and ending balance $3957.68

These sums include cost of picnic permit and food

**Ida Sevier with Membership /Sunshine sent birthday greetings to 5 members and reported 3 new members and a visitor here today. She was not able to attend the Chamber gala

**Vice Chair Lorilyn encouraged people to attend the Conservative Club classes on 1st and 3rd Wed. at 1 pm at Alpine Way TV room

**Historian Ardean Anvik described the discussion on Oct . 2 meeting and encouraged all to attend Oct 16.

**Kathy McDowell said Christmas party to be on the first Friday of December.. She hopes to have a basket raffle. But no details at this time

**Lorilyn spoke of next meeting on Nov,1 with Drew McEwen who will speak of mandated laws regarding the transfer or removal of unauthorized camp sites.

She also announced a Shelton Schools Foundation Fundraising Event at Lynch Creek Dahlias.. today from 10 am to 6 PM at 1880 SE Lynch road.. $5 and $10 coupons. This money supports foundation classroom grants and scholarships.

Meeting closed at 1 PM

Submitted by Jean Springer, Secretary

Mason County Republican Women’s Club September 6, 2019

The meeting was held at Sister’s Restaurant in downtown Shelton

*11:55 Chairman Connie Wilson opened the meeting. It was followed by flag salute and Invocation

She greeted the County and City officials present and then introduced the 4 Shelton City Council Candidates and set their presentation limits: 1 minute to describe self and plans and then 2 minutes to answer the prepared questions.

Question 1: What to do about homeless problem and belligerent street people? Question 2 ; what do you plan for economic development?; question 3 : how raise money without raising taxes?

Position 1 George Blush has own business and works with nonprofits and town leaders Q1: provide beds and enforce laws and work with community leaders Q2:focus on cleaning up homeless situation Q3: Grants

Position 1 James Boad local resident Shelton High graduate looks forward to working with town leaders

Q1: agreed with Blush ..need awareness, affordable housing and cooperation among city leaders

Q2: update permit laws, consistent laws, change processes and systems as needed. Q3: encourage economic dev. Chamber of Commerce a big help ..meets with business owners

Position 2: Dean Jewett graduate Shelton high , has several businesses in town, wants to solve crimes , increase revenue stream Q1: action is required – follow successful actions of other communities i.e. Burien (take housing or face arrest) Q2: simplification permit process , clean up downtown, streamline permit process, fill up empty buildings Q3: Enforce a parking code with penalties; be builder friendly.. get ideas from towns that have become tourist attractions i.e. Twisp, Leavenworth. We have just as much to offer the tourist since we are the gateway to the Olympics esp. with airport

Kathy McDowell: Has worked with city for many years.. would continue same approach Q1: homeless problem for many years.. compare to other cities Q2: Economic Development important need new businesses, streamline permits Q3: bring in new business, economic development, get grants

Audience question???if you could remake ordinances what would you do :::

All agreed that cleaning up the city would be it.. mandatory garbage pickup, Kathy spoke of a 6 month limitation on signs and length of time in place.

Ida Sevier question about parking…. Develop a central parking area..enforce parking laws again so no multi hour/day parking.. Fix core of city – get trees that don’t require high maintenance. would need volunteers to maintain.. i.e. as Toziers does some now for the baskets.

****12:45 Chairman Connie Wilson thanks guests and announces business reports

----copies of minutes on table and available at website www.mcwomensclub.wixsite.com/mcwc

**Treasurer’s report ..Mary Jo Cady.. beginning club balance was $4262.67 and ending balance $3939.35

These sums represent adding account of Community Kitchen and then the cost of pizzas during the summer

** Lorilyn Rogers, vice chair spoke of the Oct 4 (candidates for school board ) meeting , November 1, and the Christmas luncheon in December

**Membership Committee reports looking for new chair

**Ida Sevier with Sunshine sent birthday greetings for all persons with summer birthdays

It was mentioned here that there were applications for new members at table.. $20 for year and $10 for associate members.

**Education/Historian Ardean Anvik spoke of his gratitude and thanks to all that visited and encouraged him during his recovery from recent surgery… He has set the dates for the winter discussion group on The Constitution. These will be the first and third Wednesdays of the month starting on October 2.. at the usual place which is Alpine Way from 1 to 3 PM .

**Other business: looking for volunteers for nominating committee for club officers for November vote with installation in December.. .. the Christmas Luncheon Committee needs help.

**Announcements: Community Kitchen will occur Sept 21

Next meeting October 4 when School Board Candidates will present their platforms

Randy Lewis made comments about Lion’s club and new basketball court. Lion’s is looking for donations

April Pooler spoke of Little House project which meets second Thursday meetings at Civic center 5:30 to 7

Meeting closed at 12:55

Submitted by Jean Springer, Secretary.

Mason County Republican Women’s Club June 7, 2019

The meeting was held at Sister’s Restaurant in downtown Shelton

**11:50 Lorilyn Rogers made announcements: Needs volunteers for community meal in June. In lieu of meal in July and August, pizzas will be delivered. Sign up boards are being passed around. The boards also will be for volunteers to help with Candidates in the Park (July 12) and for Bite of Shelton (July 19)

On Friday, July 19 the Expo and Bite of Mason County will once again take to the street for a street fair along Railroad Ave. Mason County Republican booth will have guest speakers throughout the day.

*Chair of MCRCC Phil Wilson spoke of Initiative 88 which plans to repeal Initiative 1000 by bringing it to a vote of the people. This was passed in last legislative session. Reminder that it has been written so that one votes YES to reject. He left petitions to be signed to get this on ballot. It concerns discrimination.

The next fund raiser is July 12 for the ‘Candidates in the Park Picnic. Help volunteers are needed : 5 food servers; 3 people to set up; and then after shutdown, 3 people to tear down.

Help will be needed for the Bite of Shelton’ on July 19… there will be half day duties (morning or afternoon). **12:00 Chairman Connie Wilson opened the meeting. It was followed by flag salute and prayer

**She then introduced Tech Sargent Matt Williamson who represented WSP (Washington State Patrol). He had two detectives with him to make a presentation on their work which is stopping human trafficking.

There was a digital presentation showing problem areas and describing what is being done to control the problem. Detective Brandon Querubin spoke of financial support needed for the work and that as discouraging as the work is, he finds success most satisfying.

Young children are at risk through Craig’s list, Facebook, other Social Media and the use of cell phones.

Since 2015, much focus is on children under 18.. the prostitutes are referred to as victims

95% of the females get involved for money and the underground economy reacts to supply and demand. It is a modern slavery. WA state is a big center and is 16th in nation since there is much money here. It is a seaport, international border, and military center which encourage more victims. The I-5 strip from Seattle to Tacoma is the main trafficking area in the state. It falls to the WSP since the crime affects the entire state and is not a local problem. There is a constant push to get better laws against prostitution and sexual abuse and to get monies for more WSP officers to be available to work the problem. Immigrant communities may also be problem areas.

The police are constantly aware (as should be the populace) of indicators: journals, prepay cards, cash, multiple cell phones, age difference, tattoos since a pimp marks victim with their bar code. Victims are often run a ways who are looking for attention. Once used, they cannot leave because of support systems. Watch for signs in restaurants, hotels..who rents rooms? And for how long?

All people can be suspect. WSP has just arrested a 35 year police officer. WSP just applied for 6 more officers for each side of state but only two were funded for each side. WSP has a website for donations to help fund this effort. A card was left by Detective Brandon Querubin(Brandon.Qurubin@wsp.wa.gov), investigative assistance division, missing and exploited children task force. It states: You can help MRCTF put a stop to those who victimize our children. For more information or to donate to MECTF, visit www.wsp.wa.gov/crime/mectf

****12:45 Chairman Connie Wilson thanks guest and announces business reports

----copies of minutes on table and available at website www.mcwomensclub.wixsite.com/mcwc

All welcome Ardean Anvik back with group

**Treasurer’s report ..Mary Jo Cady.. reminds all of the box on table for donations for lunch for guest. The beginning club balance was $2342.08 and ending balance $4262.67

The dessert Auction at the Lincoln Day dinner brought in $1562 for the club.

**Lorilyn Rogers reminded all of the Bite of Shelton on July 19; the Kickoff for Sandy Tarzwell’s race for Shelton school board on June 14 at Kneeland Park (4-6PM) ; and the Community Meal on June 15th.

** April Pooler reported that there are 36 paid up members of the group. Dues are $20/year

She then spoke of her position on the board for the ‘little houses’ project and the need for sponsors

Connie again spoke of the next meeting which is the Candidates in the Park on July 12.

Volunteers needed.. there was a question of whether to advertise (expensive) or just put out flyers. –not determined. June 28 there will be a planning meeting.

Mary Jo Cady moved that the club donate $250 to the mectf.. it was seconded and passed with no objections.

Meeting closed at 12:55 Submitted by Jean Springer, secretary

Mason County Republican Women’s Club May 3, 2019

The meeting was held at Sister’s Restaurant in downtown Shelton

**11:50 Lorilyn Rogers made announcements. Needs volunteers for community meals in May(May 18) and June. It has been decided that in July and August, pizzas will be delivered.

There is a fund raiser at the Lincoln Day dinner (May 9) and 2 more desserts are requested

The next fund raiser is July 12 for the ‘Candidates in the Park Picnic’ .. Help volunteers are needed : 5 food servers; 3 people to set up; and then after shutdown, 3 people to tear down.

Help will be needed for the ‘Bite of Shelton’ on July 19… there will be half day duties (morning or afternoon). There is need for someone to plan a raffle basket; a volunteer coordinator and a speaker at the booths

11:55 ** Chairman Connie Wilson opened the meeting

Followed by flag salute and prayer

**She then introduced Mason County Tourism member Rachel Hansen

Rachel has lived in Mason County for 16 years.. She was trained in hospitality and first described a pivotal moment. It has to be something that may not be planned but makes a big impact on visitors or groups and they often will return just to remember the event… and maybe made many friends from experiences.

She referred to Shelton as an economically challenged community and needs community effort to bring about enthusiasm and spirit… she spoke of the reconstruction of the “Christmas Town” Santa.. and how it brought back memories to many people and volunteers to help the project.

She is the editor of ‘Tracing the Fjord’ magazine for Hood Canal and South Puget Sound.
This is distributed at 125 locations such as Quilcene and Washington State Ferries (which brings in Port Orchard and Bremerton visitors) . There are 10,000 printed and 5000 on line.

She put emphasis on the example of the Blue Grass Festival and how it has developed. Western Washington Honda dealers have now shown interest and want to use that as feature of road trips in the area.

She is now promoting adventure tourism and has been meeting with the Thurston County on the subject.

All this activity is being credited with an 18% jump in lodging tax revenue for the area.

Copies of ‘Tracing the Fjord’ and the 2019 MC’ tourism at a glance’ which highlights events for each quarter of the year.. were available

Questions were asked: Are you planning something like an Ironman challenge; use of Sanderson to bring in tourists ; are there lodging problems???

****12:20 Chairman Connie Wilson thanks guest and announces business reports

----copies of minutes on table and available at website www.mcwomensclub.wixsite.com/mcwc

**Treasurer’s report ..Mary Jo Cady.. gave reminder to all of the box on table for donations for lunch for guest. The beginning club balance was $2327.84 and ending balance $2342.08

**Ida Sevier reported Sunshine with two birthdays. She did not attend any Chamber meetings.

Ida cannot go to next Chamber meeting so Lorilyn volunteered to cover.

** Ardean Anvik History group… Ardean has been recuperating from surgery..he hopes to be at Lincoln Day dinner.

**Central Committee Leslie Peterson : The major fund raiser, Lincoln Day Dinner, will be on May 9th at Alderbrook Golf and Yacht Club . The speaker will be David Avella. There are 8 tickets still available.

**Kathy McDowell : The Lion’s club has a fund raiser for proposed YMCA.. there are flyers all around town.

Cindy Kline asked if our group could feature Gun Safety information

Claire Vosluhl spoke up to say that information was on www.masoncountySA.com and the indoor gun range is open 24/7. It is in business complex at Sanderson field.

The next meeting will be on June 7 featuring the subject of Human Trafficking with a WA state patrol speaker

Meeting closed at 12:40

Submitted by Jean Springer, secretary

Mason County Republican Women’s Club April 5, 2019

The meeting was held at Sister’s Restaurant in downtown Shelton

**Chairman Connie Wilson opened the meeting at noon. Followed by flag salute and prayer

**Abe Gardner, Program coordinator for Mason County Public Health, was introduced to describe what is being done about the opioid epidemic and the impact on Mason County. He described their 2 year program of attempting to prevent addiction; give treatment; increase response time; and prevent death. These problems and solution are coordinated with many county-city departments.. esp. response services and the hospital. At first they were involved with a state program but since April 2017, there has also been a federal program. Several grants for this were accessed in March 2018. Their main purposes are outreach, prevention and care for addicted. Abe Gardener spoke of his own life with addiction and how he escaped and became responsible family member and now working in substance abuse program to help others with the addiction problem. He provided copies of a brochure “Mason County Substance Abuse Resource Guide” which provides contact information on Community Connections; Meetings/Support Groups; Detox; Outpatient; In Patient; Medical Assisted Treatment; Youth Outpatient Services; Pregnant & Parenting Mothers; Naloxone; Syringe Exchange; and Mental Health. His contacts are at (360) 463 2238 and at www.healthymasoncounty.org

There are workshops to provide public outreach and education. In 2018 an official budget item was presented and in Nov 2018 they took over an RV that is in Belfair and on the Snohomish reservation on Tues; and on Thursday - Squaxin, Kamilche, and at the end of RR Ave. with plans to help reduced syringe disposal problem with a syringe exchange service and medical support-which relieves pressure on Mason General Hospital.

The Federal program develops a recovery system and collects data with the prison involved also. Mason County had worse opioid problem in state. His own example required humanization, need of empathy, and encouragement. Don’t give up ! After his presentation, several people had questions::::::

Mary Jo: after looking at KOMO “ Seattle is Dying” presentation…. Why not use the Rhode Island solution???

.. Mason County is pursuing funds for similar

Ardean Anvik: Is there prescription monitor for doctors??? Are there high school presentations?

Answer : no monitor… There is a public health prevention specialist

Question ”Does giving out clean needles help?” Mason county only does one to one exchanges but there are no data to show increase

What is recovery??? How much crime associated with drugs?? Needs funds to track data.

There is a new grant to MCHospital to provide quick response time but not a stable source of money.

****12:35 Chairman Connie Wilson thanks guest and announces business reports

----copies of minutes on table and available at website www.mcwomensclub.wixsite.com/mcwc

**Treasurer’s report ..Mary Jo Cady.. Income of $74.04 with expenses of $14.09 ending balance: $2327.84

Reminder of vote for meeting location by casting colored chips and donations for guest lunch in box on table.

**April Pooler membership report.. $20 per year to treasurer.. she is on city board for Tiny Houses project

**Ida Sevier reported Sunshine:three birthdays, Chamber of Commerce meeting emphasized tourism with video “Sky Land Sea’ presentation.

** Ardean Anvik and discussion group: The fall session will start on 1st and 3rd Wed of Oct and the discussion will be on the Bill of Rights.

**Central Committee Leslie Peterson : Candidate workshop on April 23 from 5:30 to 6:30 PM at Elections Dept. The major fund raiser, Lincoln Day Dinner, will be on May 9th at Alderbrook Golf and Yacht Club , speaker will be David Avella. Discussion of the dessert auction and asks for volunteers to donate desserts for the dessert auction – a signup sheet was sent around. She had a MAGA hat which would be prize to encourage sales today for ticket for Lincoln Day Dinner

For more information call Leslie Peterson (360)426 1528 or email tlpleslie@yahoo.com

Tickets for open seating are $55 each through April 14 and $65 after that.

Announcements: The sign up for community meal on April 20 was sent around

There will be a CareNet Dessert Action April 26 at 6 PM at St. Edward’s Catholic Church $20

Profits from the movie “Gosnell” were donated to Carenet

The next meeting will be at Sister’s restaurant on May 3 with Rachel Hansen Subject: Mason County Tourism

Meeting closed at 12:55

Submitted by Jean Springer, secretary

Mason County Republican Women’s Club March 1, 2019

The meeting was held at Sister’s Restaurant

Chairman Connie Wilson opened the meeting at 12 noon. Followed by flag salute and prayer

She announced that the minutes from last meeting were on the table with notices of future activities

**Treasurer’s report.. Mary Jo Cady.. Income of $404.97 with expenses of $237.46 ending balance: $2267.89

**April Pooler Membership report: new system to members to sign up by invitation via emails.

**Ida Sevier reported Sunshine: several birthdays and get well cards for 3 members…please sign cards

Also her meetings at the Chamber of Commerce: An active shooter discussion with police…what to do??

1. Run 2) Hide 3) fight .. the police purpose is to stop the shooting first then tend to injured

** Ardean Anvik and discussion group: Only 3 sessions this spring -- March 5 and 19 and April 2 (Tuesdays). The fall session will be meeting on Wednesdays.

**April Pooler comments on Tiny houses for veterans asks for ideas for donations to help out. Bob Rogers comments that March 19 will be another public hearing on the tiny house project.

**The fund raisers: Glen Morgan will speak “Effecting Local Government” at PUD3 Friday March 8 at 5:30;

March 23 9:30 Movie at 10 am at the Shelton Cinemas. The film will be “Gosnell: The Untold Story of America’s most prolific serial killer” asking for freewill donation; YMCA fundraiser ZUMBA sponsored by Shelton Centennial Lions on March 16th 9 am to 11 am at Olympic Middle School.

** The April meeting of the Club will be about opioid addiction and the ensuing problems

**A presentation was next made by Erin Wilson about the TeenPact Leadership schools.

TeenPact Leadership School is a nonprofit, nonpartisan, Christian organization dedicated to training the next generation to value their liberty and understand the political process.. The students learn best by doing. It challenges students to get out of their comfort zones..

Donations were requested with information on line https://teenpact.com/give/ Any questions: call Erin Wilson

425-449-0423. Her daughter, Kaitlin, also spoke of how she enjoyed and learned from the classes.

There is a camp in Olympia April 8-12. Classes by teenagers … the young people attending don’t know the age of their associates until the end of the week. A cup was passed for donations

**Program at 12:20 the program was turned over to Lisa Perry who is Community relations manager of Sierra Pacific Industries. She presented facts and statistics concerning the business in the Shelton community.

Company headquarters is located in California.. There are 14 mills (4 in WA), it has the largest mill work production in nation. There are mills in Aberdeen, Centralia. They now have 300,000 acres of forest lands in Washington -- none of them send logs to the Shelton Stud mill. The maximum log here is 22 inches, the largest in their mills is 32 inch log. They set up business in Washington since getting permits here was easier than in CA. The old mill was torn down and rebuilt with modern technology. It now employs more than 280 people. 70 % live in Shelton

There is no green chain. There is a dual line stud mill which is all computer run so that nothing is wasted. It is run by computers, AI, and cameras. Each piece has a label so that it can be traced. Community work: scholarships are available for children of employees and efforts are made to contribute to the local area projects.

They are cleaning up the separator ponds with green buffers. There is opportunity for many with good chances of promotion. The biggest problem the mill faces is: people not showing up for work for the job. Drugs are not the big problem

Meeting closed at 1:00. Lisa Perry then had forms to be signed if you wanted to go on her tour of the plant. It is a 1 to 1.5 hour tour. We meet at the front gate (over jacket, hard hat, ear plugs provided). There are about 15 from the group who have guided walk the length of the plant among the high stacks of finished lumber; then, along Goldsboro Creek to start the plant tour. The tour goes up to a high level in the plant for view of the logs coming in and the multiple saws cutting them into sections after which they move along conveyor belts to be trimmed, labelled, and finished before being bundled, wrapped, and stacked onto the trains and trucks to move to market.

Sierra Pacific hopes to help start technical school in the area. They now employ more here than in CA

Minutes plus tour

Submitted by Jean Springer Secretary

Mason County Republican Women’s Club February 1, 2019

Since the Club is testing new meeting sites, this meeting was at El Serape (downtown), last month it was at the Sister’s (downtown). We will return to Sister’s Restaurant for the March 1 meeting.

Pre meeting there were several announcements:

++Lorilyn Rogers spoke of the Feb. 16 Community Meal and that a signup sheet was being circulated.

++Ardean Anvik spoke of the startup of the study group on Feb 5, Alpine Way at 1PM

*** Meeting was opened at 11:55 by Chairman Connie Wilson

Opened with Salute to Flag followed by the Invocation by Pastor Baker (new to Shelton)

**The program began with the introduction of County Commissioner Kevin Shutty

The subject to be discussed was funding and coping with the present Mason County jail problems.

.. Public Safety and finances take up much of the commissioner’s time.

The capacity of the jail (now 80) is set by the sheriff. So any excess is worked out by alternate sentences, home monitoring, and work release but this does not work for all.

The problem is unfunded mandates by the state with a one size for ALL counties. . Right now there are 5000 active warrants here for minor to serious offences. Mason County has tried to work with Greys Harbor County to maximize use of joint facilities. There are plans for new facilities with consultants for design to be selected in February-- with cost sharing. Skagit County just finished a 400 bed facility and it cost 6 million dollars from 10 years ago. Mason County also works with the tribes. There is a triage center to come on line which presents new issues. One of the problems is the severe mental health problems of many inmates. The state pushes mental problems to the counties as they shut down the state facilities at Western State .

The meeting was opened to questions

Cost of mental prisoner -- answer $100 a day basic …mental health training investment is hidden cost..

Comments on the mandates from state that governor proposes i.e. sending Western State civil cases to locals

Comment… too harsh treatment for minor mental problems.. i.e. put in solitary confinement ..

Jails are for holding people accountable.. 32 beds at triage will help

**Next speaker was Terry Drexler, former commissioner

Emphasizes that County is agent of the state and is responsible for port, jail, taxes etc.. so state legislature tells county what to do; but only gives 3.5% in revenue while the costs will be 4.5%. County has to close gap for unfunded mandates.

Example: mandate of ballot drop boxes for all counties big and small.. with no thought of peripheral expenses i.e. number of boxes.. 2 people required at each box at 8 o’clock in evening each box to pick up ballots

Example 2 : the public defenders - Some others are McCreary decision; public health (vaccinations, etc ) ; election costs; court costs; special police training

++Reminded all to look at their property tax bills and see where the monies go.. Roads, police, parks, schools

A sheet listing Property Tax levies in 2018 for the counties was available.

Commissioners have no control over State Government Mandates!!

Open for questions:?? comment on Growth management and what it does to the small land owner vs business..under Natural resources development. Then a discussion about proposed tolls on local streets ..

Connie states:: there are too many issues will have Shutty back.. Lorilyn plans to send out email to suggest how to contact our representatives.

** Business meeting: with thanks to Cindy Cline for updating website

+Announcement of Feb 13 invitation to speaker Glen Morgan on ‘Effecting Local Gov’t” PUD3 5:30 to 8:30

+March 1 meeting at Sister’s Restaurant with Lisa Perry, Community Relations Manager for Sierra Pacific Industries. She will discuss SPI and afterwards a tour of the mill will be offered.

** Membership.. April Pooler reminds all that dues should be paid for the year. Pool tickets drawn for membership award.. basket given to Nancy Nelson and April Pooler. Dues are $20 a year.

Mary Jo Cady, treasurer, gives report of beginning balance $1365.38 and ending balance of $2100.38

Note: The January minutes showed a total of $1870.38 which included a Dec. deposit of $505.00 for Dec.

Thus the $2100.38 shows the January Meeting deposit of $230.00.

**Ida Sevier announces birthdays and gives report on Chamber of Commerce activities. Went to their gala

** Ardean on the study group.. it is about social issues …Alpine Way , Feb 5, 1 to 3 PM

12:50 Meeting adjourned Jean Springer , secretary