Most Mason County residents near Shelton recall the arrogant disdain Pork Commissioners had for community opposition to Adage and the legally permitted toxins/soot it proposed to dump into our air while laying waste to our surrounding forests and quality of life. The current triage of septuagenarians is even worse because the public no longer has a representative there who is responsive to voters. What remains is a shill for corruption (EDC payoffs), graft, cronyism, special interests, and industrial blight mixed with incompetence.
At great expense, the Adage sycophants were beaten back by the community. Recent research substantiates the worst fears residents had of the ill conceived mission by its pork commissioners to line the pockets of Mason County oligarchs.
The Obama administration is proposing new air quality standards to lower the amount of soot that can be released into the air, risking an election-year backlash from Republicans.
The move, to be announced Friday, is likely to win support from environmental groups and public health advocates but exposes the president to potential criticism from congressional Republicans and industry officials that the rules are overly strict and could hurt economic growth and cause job losses in political swing states such as Ohio and Pennsylvania.
Perhaps wary of the rule’s political risk, the administration had sought to delay the new soot standards until after the November elections. But a federal judge ordered officials to act after 11 states filed a lawsuit seeking a decision this year by the Environmental Protection Agency.
An administration official said the new rule was based on a rigorous scientific review. Virtually all counties in the United States would meet the proposed standard with no additional actions needed beyond compliance with current and impending rules set by the EPA, the official said. Administration officials described the rule to The Associated Press on condition of anonymity because it has yet to be announced.
Soot, made up of microscopic particles released from smokestacks, diesel trucks and buses, wood-burning stoves and other sources, contributes to haze and can burrow into lungs. Breathing in soot can cause lung and heart problems.
Dr. Albert Rizzo, chairman of the board of the American Lung Association, said soot, also known as fine particle pollution, is a known killer.
“The science is clear, and overwhelming evidence shows that particle pollution at levels currently labeled as officially `safe’ causes heart attacks, strokes and asthma attacks,” he said.
Eleven states, including New York and California, filed suit earlier this year to force a decision. The states and the American Lung Association say current standards jeopardize public health. Soot has been linked to thousands of premature deaths each year, as well as aggravation of respiratory illnesses, heart attacks and strokes.
More than a dozen states, along with environmental groups, sued the EPA several years ago, contending that the Bush administration had ignored science and its own experts when it decided in 2006 not to lower the nearly decade-old annual standard for soot. The agency’s own analysis found a lower standard recommended by scientific advisers would have prevented almost 2,000 premature deaths each year.
The EPA initially promised it would review recent science and issue a decision in 2011. After months of inaction, states led by New York filed suit to force a decision. The lung association and the National Parks Conservation Association filed a similar suit.
A federal court eventually ordered the EPA to propose a new rule by Thursday. A final rule is due in December after a public comment period.
The new rule would set the maximum allowable standard for soot in a range of 12 to 13 micrograms per cubic meter of air. The current annual standard is 15 micrograms per cubic meter.
Administration officials said the proposed changes are consistent with advice from independent scientists and are based on extensive research showing negative health impacts from soot at lower levels than previously understood. The agency will solicit comments from the public, as well as industry, public health groups and other interested groups to help determine the final standard.
Besides California and New York, states joining in the lawsuit forcing an EPA decision were Connecticut, Delaware, Maryland, Massachusetts, New Mexico, Oregon, Rhode Island, Vermont and Washington.
Once again, Jay’s Farm Stand is up to its ears in alligators in the proverbial swamp of politics and incompetent city officials called Shelton.
Shelton Permit Center
Tents considered harmful citation 1/3
Alligator bait down in the Shelton Bayou (2/3)
Shelton bans tents (3/3)
Death Traps banned by City of Shelton
Never mind that these ubiquitous items are found in numerous yards providing shelter for cars, that Gateway Tool Rental only a few blocks down the street has them on its premises, or that ‘membrane structure’ is an oxymoron tantamount to ‘jumbo shrimp’, ‘military intelligence’, or competence in the administration of Shelton City government. A search for corruption in government (shockingly easy to find) becomes indistinguishable from incompetence in this instance.
Mayor Gary Cronce (a local business owner) successfully ran on a platform of easing unreasonable restrictions on local retail establishments which are decimating the City’s business community. Cronce is alleged to have expressed sympathy for Jay’s, but has yet to bring his carnivorous permit minions to heel.
An interview with the Log Cabin Tavern, Bar & Grill owner reveals a similar ongoing pattern. Lori expresses dissatisfaction with how her own building permit issues were handled as revealed during the on premises accompanying video interview of 6-13-12.
City of Shelton: the shame of Mason County
Jay’s Farm Stand is (was?) a small business in a small town (Shelton) selling fresh produce instead of the sugar laden highly processed gunk sold in the big box grocery chains. It’s a town that looks like it never had a bath (the streets are filthy) full of vacant store fronts and industrial blight from its local biomassacre biopirates aka Simpson Timber (aka ‘Green Diamond’, etc. etc.). But rather than clean up the rubbish, broken glass, filth, dilapidated buildings, and broken streets, town officials prefer harassing productive business owners trying to make a go of it during hard times in this small rural community.
Shelton Permit Center
Alligator bait down in the Shelton Bayou (2/3)
Shelton bans tents (3/3)
Tents considered harmful citation 1/3
Death Traps banned by City of Shelton
UPDATE:
A Shelton business man who did not want to be identified for fear of retaliation alleged Mr. Mayo (a Thurston resident) once worked as a building inspector for Mason County before applying to the City of Shelton. The reasons for his leaving are unknown at this time. Those with knowledge of the details are encouraged to contribute the information. The businessman went on to express his own grievances including ill conceived baseless excessive building code demands and tampering with ORCAA enforcement (Mayo filed a complaint about ‘odor’ from a city food processing retail establishment BEFORE the disputed equipment had even been installed!). Reportedly, a number of area contractors will not allow Mr. Mayo to set foot on their job sites.
A Flyer containing the following text was at Jay’s:
City of Shelton building inspector Kelly Mayo is going to close our business next Friday, June 22 [2012] because of our tents out front. Please let the City of Shelton Commissioners know that we are a part of the community and bring a needed business to Shelton. Jay’s Farm Stand thanks you for your support.
City of Shelton Commissioners are Dawn Pannell, Mike Wilson, and (of course) Gary Cronce, the Mayor. Phone: (360)426-4491
E-mail: cityhall@ci.shelton.wa.us
RE-UPDATE: (6-17-12, Sunday Morning)
It was mostly a one-sided conversation though Mayor Cronce is to be complimented for responding so promptly to the e-mail he received regarding the above cited issues. The normal 6:00pm Monday (tomorrow) meeting at City Hall will have 3 minute periods for comment trailed to after other city business has been considered. The Mayor expressed concern about hoards of screaming irate citizens appearing, but anticipated allowing each to address the Commissioners so long as ‘name calling’ and other boorish behavior didn’t disrupt the proceedings.
Mayor Cronce was quick to characterize Lee Dixon (of Jay’s Farm Stand in Shelton) as a man who didn’t follow through on his word to the City, citing a number of missed dates and empty assurances. He also claimed the City code required strict adherence. He averred the Fire Marshal had claimed the fire code allowed only 180 days grace for the tents sheltering Jay’s produce from the elements. But Mayor Cronce also admitted the tents were no safety hazard/threat and that identical tents existed on many residential properties, arguing the same forbearance didn’t apply to commercial properties. He simply insisted neither he nor the other Commissioners had any authority to vary from the code. Mr. Cronce appeared indifferent to the idea that the IBC is a performance code (that which can be demonstrated to achieve its purpose is permitted) and the umbrella-tents protecting the perishables endangered no one, nor do they meet a minimum threshold that would.
Too much time was spent discussing Mr. Dixon’s personality rather than whether the City was overstepping its authority by banning tents under such circumstances. The Mayor was advised to read the applicable code (building or fire) sections himself as opposed to accepting anyone’s opinion (including the fire marshal’s) regarding the same.
Mayor Cronce, even the law has room for common sense. Selling fruit is a low profit margin business. The product is highly perishable. Costs must be minimized to remain competitive. The community benefits from the selection and sale. All reasonable observers can readily see the tents present no hazard as deployed, and they’re hardly visually objectionable considering the state of much of downtown Shelton. Moreover, tents (membranes?) are not ‘structures’ as defined by the building code. Indeed, they’re hardly tents, more like multi-poled umbrellas in their current configuration during business hours. Umbrellas appear to remain unfettered.
It’s reasonable to require a very large tent (circus big top) to meet some fire code and egress standards given the number of people under something of that size. But a 10′ x 20′ tent isn’t going to trap or injure anybody. The building code isn’t a religion/bible, it’s a code intended to protect the public from unsafe STRUCTURES, not umbrellas, tents, awnings, tarps, or hammocks. A simple glance at how other municipalities coordinate their code with the business community in such instances should provide ample guidance for any Mayor inclined to provide leadership and make good on campaign rhetoric. –editor–
Pushing the bounds of the anti-tax movement that erupted with the formation of the Tea Party three years ago, North Dakota voters on Tuesday are set to decide whether to abolish their state’s local property taxes.
Polls show the proposed constitutional amendment facing stiff opposition in the state.
But if it did pass, North Dakota would be the first state to eliminate the local taxes. And the vote would immediately trigger a legislative scramble, as governments across the state would have to figure out how to deal with the sudden revenue shortfall.
Under Measure 2, property taxes would be eliminated and the Legislature would be ordered to supply replacement revenue to the local governments that depend on them. The state Tax Department estimated the needed sum would be more than $800 million annually.
A businessman who helped pull the campaign together said he remains hopeful despite the public opinion surveys.
“I am not an optimist unrealistically. I just have listened to too many people say they are supporting us,” Robert Hale said. “I hope the people who have been frustrated with what’s going on vote that way … I put the time and effort into it for that reason, and so did everyone else who (backed the measure).”
The proposal gained currency in part because of North Dakota’s economic prosperity, fueled by an energy boom that has left the state treasury with surpluses greater than $1 billion. The state has had the nation’s lowest unemployment rate, and the measure’s supporters say North Dakota government could afford to replace the local revenues.
Legislators predicted if voters endorsed the amendment, Gov. Jack Dalrymple would have to quickly call a special session to deal with the aftermath.
“The more that people understand what this measure is all about, the more they seem to reject it,” said Andy Peterson, president of the North Dakota Chamber of Commerce, which opposed the amendment. “We’re hearing from folks who think their property taxes are too high, but they agree this is not the answer.”
The amendment was put on the ballot by a citizens’ group called Empower the Taxpayer, led by Hale and Charlene Nelson, a Casselton activist. More than 27,000 North Dakota voters signed petitions demanding the vote.
A decade ago, Nelson led a successful effort to repeal changes in North Dakota’s bank privacy laws, approved by the 2001 Legislature, which allowed banks to sell their customers’ information without obtaining written permission.
Hale has fought what he says is the city of Minot’s illegal spending of taxpayers’ money to subsidize private businesses, which he said often do not keep job-creation promises they make in exchange for the aid.
However, the amendment raised concerns among a diverse coalition of organizations, from North Dakota’s Chamber of Commerce to the state Farmers Union and groups representing local governments, public employees and school teachers.
They organized a vocal, well-financed campaign, arguing the measure would transfer budget power from local governments to the Legislature, and leave questions about which local projects lawmakers would have to pay for.
The measure’s supporters castigated property taxes as a way to extend permanent government control over a person’s home, even after the mortgage had been paid.
Attempts in the Legislature to reform property taxes have been futile, and doing away with them entirely was a better solution, they argued.
“There’s nothing else like it in the whole damn country!” -Geoffrey Castle
Rick
If you like music, dancing, color, costumes, buskers, magicians, peforming arts, story telling, workshops, and people from the bizarre to the traditional, you can’t go wrong attending the annual Memorial Day weekend NW Folklife festival @ Seattle Center…a photographer’s Paradise. And it’sFREE! In fact, it’s the biggest such free festival anywhere. This NW specialty has been happening for 41 years without missing a beat. It requires the good will of the organizers, hundreds of volunteers, and YES–donations are appreciated. (CLICK on www.nwfolklife.org)
Friends
It’s impossible for one reporter to cover over 2 dozen stages and hundreds of performances running for 4 days straight (F-M, Memorial Day weekend) 10am-10pm…not to mention the crowds, sights, smells, beautiful spring budding, and all around good vibes. Pick a Friday or Monday if you’re adverse to really big crowds–the Center allegedly had 400,000+ attendees on Saturday, 2011 for the Memorial Day weekend extravaganza. Some of those memories can be seen by searching on this site–just enter ‘2011 Folklife’.
Experience Flamenco in an intimate setting June 14th at The Midnight Sun Performance Space when “Arte Eterno Flamenco en Vivo”is presented in Olympia for the first time. The 8pm performance is part of a 14 date tour of Western Washington and Oregon featuring third generation Gypsy guitarist, Pedro Cortes, singer/dancer/percussionist Oscar Valero of Valencia, Spain. and Seattle-native flamenco dancer Savannah Fuentes. Born in Seattle to parents of Puerto Rican and Irish ancestry, Savannah Fuentes has been sharing her love for the art of Flamenco with Northwest audiences for the past 6 years. She has presented over 80 performances, workshops, and educational programs featuring internationally recognized Flamenco artists in Washington and Oregon.
Three years after being bailed out by the International Monetary Fund Iceland decides to put its politicians, and bankers on the bench of the accused. The people of Iceland have been saved by their government during a time of economic collapse, in hopes of changing the outcome for Iceland.
Without mortgages to pay, this frees up money to be spent in other ways which will fuel growth in the economy of Iceland. What would happen if this action started to take hold in other countries?
The only one that loses is the bankers, who have ridden on the coattails of those who have struggled to create a better place to live. What a wonderful world it would be, if this action became viral around the world!
One of the annual seminal cultural events in Shelton has become Bluegrass From the Forest organized and produced by Greg Linder. Greg resides in Union and attended school locally as a young man. His bluegrass band, Runaway Train, has become a beacon attracting nationally and internationally acclaimed bluegrass bands from across the nation to what is geographically but a dip in the road, but is now a notable destination on the bluegrass map as it serves as a cornerstone kicking off the bluegrass touring season with the warming months.
Bluegrass From the Forest 2012 (237/264) – Shelton, WA
Shelton City Commissioner Dawn Pannell kicks off the Special short performance w/master of ceremonies Fred Coates & Jim Miernyk (Showcase Stage manager). Fred proved to be an affable genteel Bluegrass enthusiast who made the audience feel comfortable while introducing the respective bands. Greg Linder is the laid back inspirational co-producer whose vision was the genesis of Bluegrass in the Forest…an annual festival which put a geographical dip in the road (Shelton) on the Bluegrass map, drawing national headliner musicians from across the nation as the seminal opening event in the annual Bluegrass touring season. A sponsorship (along with an advertising banner on the auditorium wall) can be purchased for the bargain price of $500/$250.
Less inspiring was Dave Miser, Shelton High’s meddlesome auditorium engineer and stage manager, who (once again) instigated an ill conceived challenge to the taping of events by local media–unaware permission by one of the producers (the musician of the 2) had been arranged. Though an asset for musical groups utilizing the facilities, Dave habitually casts a pall on the ambiance from a news gathering perspective, interjecting himself on multiple occasions in the delicate relationship between the media and the producers while revealing a profoundly shallow understanding of the legal boundaries involving copyright, fair use, expectations of privacy by minors in a public space, 1st Amendment issues, etc. for a school employee responsible for mentoring ambitious young stage technicians.
On this occasion, Dave gulled Duane Wilson into believing some sort of transgression was in progress despite the multitude of audience members filming the performances on their handheld video camcorders. Duane, the less musically adroit/savy of the 2 co-producers hadn’t been apprised by Greg arranged taping would be sanctioned unless a performance group objected. Although these arrangements were purely between the media involved and the producers, Dave Miser succeeded in, once again, creating an awkward moment by injecting himself where he had little/no legitimate business. Greg Linder was asked to confirm permission had been given after he finished his set on the stage, which he did. Still, Miser left a bad aftertaste after watching him and Duane Wilson pour over the multitude of contracts the various groups had entered into with the producers as they desperately searched for a clause to justify their creating a stink. Ultimately they seized on one lone boiler plate paragraph contained in the Kathy Kalick Band contract but never provided a copy as requested.
Greg cautioned a preview of the coverage to the ‘afflicted’ group might well be in order. Duane expressed a greater interest in listening to the live performance than discussing the matter further. Miser gave no hint of a preference for the music over misplaced contentiousness. A complaint regarding this pattern of misconduct was lodged with the Shelton School District Superintendent, Wayne Massie. Mr. Miser,. as a school employee, is responsible for protecting the facilities, not copyright or misapprehensions of where the boundaries lie for 1st Amendment activities in private/leased events at the high school after hours. Despite this lack of ‘standing’, Miser has repeatedly attempted to inject his views into the mix at these community sponsored events. Whether his net effect is more positive than negative may depend on who is asked.
Bluegrass From the Forest 2012 (238/264) – Shelton, WA
Wayward Vessel setup.
Bluegrass From the Forest 2012 (239/264) – Shelton, WA
Wayward Vessel (pt 1/2) is a charming group of only 3 months that not only sounds good, but were easy on the eyes in their youthful but innovative splendor. They generously provided a pre-release CD of their BEFORE THE GREY album, consisting of much of their own material written by Julie Schmidt, which sounded fantastic with its cello inspired sultry bass player (Belinda Underwood) and composer-singer-musician (Julie Schmidt). The two women harmonized well together while the group engaged in syncopated pacing achieving full measure from each musical phrase.
This innovative band from Portland plays acoustic music born from the traditions formed by early bluegrass pioneers like Bill Monroe and Ralph Stanley, making it their own by adding influences of pop, jazz, and inspiration. Winners of last year’s Bluegrass From the Forest (2011) festival band contest, they accepted an invitation to appear in 2012. Band members: Ken Chappie on guitar, Julie Schmidt on fiddle, Josiah Payne on mandolin, and Belinda Underwood on bass.
This band is a real treat for those looking for an original blend of the traditional and the contemporary…fresh, sensitively phrased, and exciting.
Bluegrass From the Forest 2012 (240/264) – Shelton, WA
Wayward Vessel (pt 2/2)
Bluegrass From the Forest 2012 (241/264) – Shelton, WA
Winner of 2012 Band Scramble setup
Bluegrass From the Forest 2012 (242/264) – Shelton, WA
2012 band scramble winner – 2 songs: Don’t Cry Darling; Going Down To Cripple Creek
Bluegrass From the Forest 2012 (243/264) – Shelton, WA
The Howdy Boys (pt. 1/2) call Seattle home; they’re the real deal in grass roots entertainment, paying attention to every detail in presenting a polished performance. From “Reno & Smiley” to original personal songs about the roads they traveled getting where they are, the story they tell is of America’s music. Seasoned veterans all, this group makes it come alive with finesse. Members: Rob Buckley on guitar, Doug Bright on fiddle (and publisher of a music review periodical: The Heritage Music Review – a monthly guide to early rock, blues, folk, and traditional jazz for the Seattle area – heritagemusicreviewDOTcom), Jason Stewart on banjo, and Jeff Broihier on bass.
Bluegrass From the Forest 2012 (244/264) – Shelton, WA
The Howdy Boys (pt. 2/2)
Bluegrass From the Forest 2012 (245/264) – Shelton, WA
Seattle based North Country & 2012 Banjo Contest winner, Stephen Burwell – Members: KENT POWELL – Kent is a true veteran to the Northwest bluegrass scene and brings his experience to North Country. He has been a member in some of the most popular and established Northwest bands, such as Crossfire and Runaway Train, in which he has been a member since 2005. Kent holds down the drive and groove of the band with his rock solid bass playing and can sing any part needed. His powerful voice and harmony singing add an incredible dynamic to the band. Kent makes his home in Tacoma, Washington.
NICK DUMAS – Nick is one of the most popular musicians among the Northwest bluegrass scene and probably one of the best mandolin and fiddle players you will find on the west coast. Growing up in Brier, Washington, Nick was heavily influenced by his grandfather, who is a great dobro player, and mother, who is a talented singer and songwriter. After a few years with his family band The Three Generations, Nick went on and helped form Northern Departure, a high powered and very talented Northwest bluegrass band. With a voice that keeps getting better, Nick has a wide range with his lead vocals and can sing the harmony parts as good as anyone you can find. His powerful mandolin chop and dynamics help establish the energy of the band. Some of Nicks influences include Adam Steffey, Sierra Hull, Dan Tyminski, Shawn Lane, Jim VanCleve, Andy Leftwich, Michael Cleveland, The Boxcars, The Chapmans, Rhonda Vincent, Dailey & Vincent, and MANY more!
WILL MCSEVENEY- Its hard to be considered bluegrass without the presence of Scruggs Style 5-string banjo, and fortunately for us, Will delivers just that to North Country… And then some! Currently making his home in Kirkland Wa., Will is fast becoming one of the most prominant banjo players, young or old, in the Northwest bluegrass scene today. Will’s powerful command of the instrument, and awareness of timing and taste have made him a valuable asset in our future endeavours. Drawing influence from such key figures as Terry Baucom, Ron Stewart, Jim Mills, and las but not least, the great Earl scruggs, it is plain to see that Will plays banjo in pursuit of one purpose…. DRIVE! Not to mention his solidity on rythym guitar! While well rooted in tradition, Will also has an equitable appreciation for the modern bluegrass scene. With modern day idols like The Boxcars, Lonesome River Band, Newfound Road, and Balsam Range, Will can deliver a tastefully fresh spin on tradition.
NORM OLSEN – From South Bend, Washington, Norm is a killer guitar player who gets great tone out of his lead breaks and plays mean, dynamic rythym. Born and raised in South Bend, Norm works with his father managing their family oyster farm, Olsen and Son Oyster co. inc., and enjoys hunting, fishing and playing music as his hobbies. Norm lays down outrageous lead solos that emulate some of flatpicking guitar’s finest influences, such as Doc Watson, Bryan Sutton, and Tony Rice, while incorporating fast, jaw dropping licks that will make you shake your head. It is also scary to think that he is just as good on the banjo as he is on guitar. Some of Norm’s other influences include Cody Kilby, Flatt and Scruggs, Randy Travis, Dan Tyminski, Don Stone, Ron Stewart, Jim Mills, Sonny Osborne, Jens Kruger, The Boxcars, and Many more to name.
STEPHEN BURWELL – From the small city of Maple Valley, Stephen brings you a rich tone and drive with his fiddling. He is known throughout the Northwest for his improvisation and execution of complexity in his music. Playing for around nine years, he has created his own sound and technique, learning from Texas, bluegrass, and progressive bluegrass style musicians. He is always striving to improve his technique and raise the standard for fiddling. Stephen was invited to perform on stage with Rhonda Vincent & The Rage and Kenny & Amanda Smith on more than one occasion. In 2011, Dale Adkins engineered a demo CD for Stephen that included his fellow band member, Nick Dumas, the illustrious Kenny Smith, and other musicians. Stephen’s main inspirations are Chris Thile, Stuart Duncan, Aubrey Haynie, Andy Leftwich, Jim VanCleve, Sam Bush, LRB, Alison Krauss & US, Coldplay, Mutemath, and so many more. Besides fiddling, he enjoys playing the mandolin and a little guitar. Stephen has now taken up recording engineering and production, and has co-engineered and produced his first album with his great friend, James Meyers.
Barbara Collins, a local talented veteran fiddler and violin instructor from Olympia, was unable to come due to illness. She was missed.
Bluegrass From the Forest 2012 (246/264) – Shelton, WA
The Kathy Kallick Band (pt. 1/2) based out of California was a welcome headliner. Each member of the band was a master performing musician in their own right. The band’s contract if not their music, however, reflected their urban roots. Close listening to their interpretation of the art form reveals careful attention to timing and a syncopated driving beat.
Kathy Kallick has a long history of West Coast traditional bluegrass band leadership since co-founding the internationally acclaimed group, Good Ol’ Persons in 1975. Her continued evolution as one of the style’s extraordinary composers and vocalists, having released 15 albums including over 100 of her own songs, has thrilled audiences from coast to coast. Kathy has won a Grammy and 2 IBMA Awards for her part in True Life Blues: The Songs Of Bill Monroe. She’s appeared on 3 high profile Rounder collections of bluegrass songs by women, as well as collections of songs about baseball, trains, spiritual matters, family, broken hearts, Christmas, and mothers–the bittersweet memories of hard living; written & recorded award winning music for children and families; toured throughout North America, Europe, and Japan.
Annie Staninec (fiddle) has played gigs for half of her 22 years beginning with Donner Mountain, Lost Coast, and the old time band, All Wrecked Up. She guested with Daryl Anger’s Republic of Strings, played with David Grisman’s Gypsy Caravan, won the 2008 & 2009 Fiddle Player of the Year awards from the Northern California Bluegrass Society, as well as the 2006 Outstanding Young Musician award at Dggangofest Northwest.
Her collaboration with the KKB showcases her fiery soloing (as in Scotty Stoneman meets Benny Martin), and gives her the chance to express lyrical, sensitive backup and charming singing. She could be seen jamming in the Shelton High School parking lot turned campground.
Greg Booth (dobro, banjo) still lives in Anchorage, where for many years he’s played pedal steel guitar in country groups…as well as banjo (which he first learned from Bill Emerson) and, more recently, dobro in legendary Alaskan bluegrass bands like Fault Line and Rank Strangers. Winner of the RockyGrass dobro competition in 2006 (after playing the instrument for only a year), regular participant in WinterGrass’ Resomania Workshop, and star of YouTube, “Greg’s innovative expressive dobro playing is even more remarkable” says guitarist Joe Karson, “when you consider that en employs no ‘licks’.”
Tom Bekeny (mandolin) has been playing and singing with Kathy since 1996. He is among the most adventurous mandolinists in music, creating thrilling solos as well as solid backup by using influences ranging from his thorough grounding in blues to his Mastry of JesseMcReynolds’ “split string” technique. Tom is a veterran of Laurie Lewis, Grant Street, and Done Gone. He has been the fiddler in High Country, the west coast’s premier traditional bluegrass band, for nearly 20 years. Tom also plays in a jazz trio and recently released a mandolin instruction DVD.
Paul Knight (bass) has been playing with Peter Rowan in various configurations for over 15 years. His driving acoustic bass has been part of recordings and live performances with a wide range of musicians including Jim Lauderdale, Laurie Lewis, and Crooked Jades. Paul is host to his own music series, Paul Knight & Friends, in his hometown of Pt. Reyes Station, CA. Several projects and bands have emerged from these shows including The Peter Rowan Bluegrass Band.
Bluegrass From the Forest 2012 (247/264) – Shelton, WA
The Kathy Kallick Band (pt. 2/2)
Bluegrass From the Forest 2012 (248/264) – Shelton, WA
2012 Band contest winner setup (Stray Dogs from Seattle)
Bluegrass From the Forest 2012 (249/264) – Shelton, WA
2012 Band Contest Winner: Stray Dogs from Seattle plays Cherokee Shuffle
The Stray Dogs Bluegrass Band performs contemporary bluegrass, classic country and acoustic roots music for fans in western Washington state admits to being influenced by Crooked Still.
John Schubert – Guitar and Vocals
Stephen Burwell (fiddle)
Willie Seveney (banjo)
Jeff Westerinen – Mandolin, Fiddle and Vocals
Andrea Westerinen – Bass
Bluegrass From the Forest 2012 (250/264) – Shelton, WA
Runaway Train (1/2), host band for the festival is a 4 piece group based in the South Puget Sound. It originally formed over 10 years ago, evolving into the energetic quartet it has become today.
Luke Dewhirst (banjo) is the newest, youngest member of the group–adding fresh interpretations of the traditional and new. Greg has been fantastically successful in attracting such talent to perform for the community. The group sings some gospel a capella with aplomb. Clearly this is a band that enjoys playing together.
Characteristically strong leads, tight vocal harmonies and solid instrumental work are the band’s calling card for festivals, concerts, and private venues throughout the region. Though utilizing a compelling traditional driving beat, they are not timid about stretching the limits of the style.
Nowlan Elwell – mandolin
Greg Linder – guitar
Luke Dewhirst – banjo
Kent Powell – bass
Bluegrass From the Forest 2012 (251/264) – Shelton, WA
Runaway Train (2/2)
Bluegrass From the Forest 2012 (252/264) – Shelton, WA
Twin Fiddlers, Annie Staninec & Stephen Burwell wow the audience with exquisitely sensitive coordinated harmony as they make their instruments sing.
Bluegrass From the Forest 2012 (253/264) – Shelton, WA
The Bluegrass Regulators (1/3) come from NW Oregon and Gig Harbor, WA. In 2009, these young musicians got together, started playing…and something clicked.
Fueled by a mutual passion for good music, they formed The Bluegrass Regulators and debuted in Shelton, WA at the 2009 Bluegrass From the Forest festival. They’ve since made a reputation as one of the most innovative and talented groups in the Pacific Northwest. Their willingness to push the conventional boundaries of the genre has produced a pure unique blend entirely their own, yet rooted in the fountainhead of tradition. Members include:
Luke Dewhirst – nationally acclaimed award winning banjo player
Martin Stevens – mandolin & fiddle
Jake Dewhirst – guitar
Molly Adkins – guitar
Josh Adkins – bass
This young band writes much of its own material, keeping the wellspring of this dynamic uniquely American performing art form strong and relevant to their contemporaries. Attend one of their concerts and watch music history in the making.
Listen carefully to Luke coaxing his instrument to sing softly, delicately–blending in with the voices of its human counterparts, then erupting into full throated crescendos.
Bluegrass From the Forest 2012 (254/264) – Shelton, WA
The Bluegrass Regulators (2/3)
Bluegrass From the Forest 2012 (255/264) – Shelton, WA
The Bluegrass Regulators (3/3)
Bluegrass From the Forest 2012 (256/264) – Shelton, WA
Frank Solivan & Dirty Kitchen (1/3) is a powerhouse of talent renown across the country for its stellar musicianship and powerful delivery of cutting edge solid bluegrass–both traditional and progressive in the finest sense of quality music. Vocal harmonization is sterling with Mr. Solivan’s discipline paying clear dividends. Every member shines.
Frank Solivan (mandolin) grew up in Alaska where he became a master of the mandolin and fiddle. His early voice lessons may have paved the way to his becoming a superb lead vocalist. In addition to his generosity toward aspiring mandolin players, he is known for his mentoring of children and their music…an inspiration to many. Frank played with the US Navy Bluegrass Band (Country Current) and then formed his own band. ‘Dirty Kitchen’ alludes to his being a master chef. Besides having mastered his instruments, the music is purely and genuinely a heart felt affair. He now resides in Virginia.
Mike Munford (banjo) is one of the hidden treasures of this 5-string instrument. After growing up in the bluegrass hotbed of D.C. & Baltimore, he mastered his own style of playing when not emulating some of the giants in the banjo world, Best described as hard driving melodic with powerful timing and tone, his jaw dropping technique leaves no doubt there’s a surprise around each corner.
Danny Booth (bass) grew up in the mountains near Anchorage, AK raised by a dedicated musical family, performing publicly at 12. The lessons he learned watching his father, Greg, play the pedal steel guitar, dobro, and banjo were not lost on him. Influenced by Mark Shatz, Edgar Meyer, Todd Phillips, et ux, he developed a solid sense of timing, feel, and fluid technique. As a strong accomplished vocalist, his voice adds immeasurably to the band’s sound.
Chris Luquette (guitar) recently joined the band. At 21, he is one of the most hardcore musicians in the Seattle area today, playing several other genres of music in addition to bluegrass, he is also in the band, Northern Departure, which performed in Shelton as a hired band after winning the band contest the previous year. Now he has come full circle…coming back to the town with Frank Solivan. When he starts picking that guitar, you can’t help but notice an amazing mix of finess, tone, and powerful music emanating from it.
Bluegrass From the Forest 2012 (257/264) – Shelton, WA
Frank Solivan & Dirty Kitchen (2/3)
Bluegrass From the Forest 2012 (258/264) – Shelton, WA
Frank Solivan & Dirty Kitchen (3/3)
SUNDAY:
Bluegrass From the Forest 2012 (259/264) – Shelton, WA
Runaway Train (1/2), host band for the festival is a 4 piece group based in the South Puget Sound. It originally formed over 10 years ago, evolving into the energetic quartet it has become today.
Luke Dewhirst (banjo) is the newest, youngest member of the group–adding fresh interpretations of the traditional and new. Greg has been fantastically successful in attracting such talent to perform for the community. The group sings some gospel a capella with aplomb. Clearly this is a band that enjoys playing together.
Characteristically strong leads, tight vocal harmonies and solid instrumental work are the band’s calling card for festivals, concerts, and private venues throughout the region. Though utilizing a compelling traditional driving beat, they are not timid about stretching the limits of the style.
Nowlan Elwell – mandolin
Greg Linder – guitar
Luke Dewhirst – banjo
Kent Powell – bass
Bluegrass From the Forest 2012 (260/264) – Shelton, WA
Runaway Train (2/2)
Bluegrass From the Forest 2012 (261/264) – Shelton, WA
Frank Solivan & Dirty Kitchen sound check
Bluegrass From the Forest 2012 (262/264) – Shelton, WA
Frank Solivan & Dirty Kitchen (1/2) is a powerhouse of talent renown across the country for its stellar musicianship and powerful delivery of cutting edge solid bluegrass–both traditional and progressive in the finest sense of quality music. Vocal harmonization is sterling with Mr. Solivan’s discipline paying clear dividends. Every member shines.
Frank Solivan (mandolin) grew up in Alaska where he became a master of the mandolin and fiddle. His early voice lessons may have paved the way to his becoming a superb lead vocalist. In addition to his generosity toward aspiring mandolin players, he is known for his mentoring of children and their music…an inspiration to many. Frank played with the US Navy Bluegrass Band (Country Current) and then formed his own band. ‘Dirty Kitchen’ alludes to his being a master chef. Besides having mastered his instruments, the music is purely and genuinely a heart felt affair. He now resides in Virginia.
Mike Munford (banjo) is one of the hidden treasures of this 5-string instrument. After growing up in the bluegrass hotbed of D.C. & Baltimore, he mastered his own style of playing when not emulating some of the giants in the banjo world, Best described as hard driving melodic with powerful timing and tone, his jaw dropping technique leaves no doubt there’s a surprise around each corner.
Danny Booth (bass) grew up in the mountains near Anchorage, AK raised by a dedicated musical family, performing publicly at 12. The lessons he learned watching his father, Greg, play the pedal steel guitar, dobro, and banjo were not lost on him. Influenced by Mark Shatz, Edgar Meyer, Todd Phillips, et ux, he developed a solid sense of timing, feel, and fluid technique. As a strong accomplished vocalist, his voice adds immeasurably to the band’s sound.
Chris Luquette (guitar) recently joined the band. At 21, he is one of the most hardcore musicians in the Seattle area today, playing several other genres of music in addition to bluegrass, he is also in the band, Northern Departure, which performed in Shelton as a hired band after winning the band contest the previous year. Now he has come full circle…coming back to the town with Frank Solivan. When he starts picking that guitar, you can’t help but notice an amazing mix of finess, tone, and powerful music emanating from it.
Bluegrass From the Forest 2012 (263/264) – Shelton, WA
Frank Solivan & Dirty Kitchen (2/2)
Bluegrass From the Forest 2012 (Grand Finale) – Shelton, WA
Terra K. Dittmer, a hometown young woman raised in Mason County died in an automobile accident on Tuesday. The driver and his 2 male passengers survived. Terra was DOA after the car he was driving crashed into a tree north of Shelton. The driver is expected to appear in Mason Co. Superior Court on suspicion of vehicular homicide.
One male passenger was airlifted to Harborview Hospital in Seattle with a broken leg and internal bleeding. The other was taken to Mason General with head and leg injuries. The driver turned himself in after being released from a hospital on Wednesday.
Terra was well liked in the community by all who knew her. She ran an unsuccessful campaign for County Commissioner (Dist. #3) in 2010, ultimately endorsing Brenda Hirschi in the final election.
Terra had worked for the Port of Shelton during Jay Hupp’s tenure and filed a promising lawsuit against the Port for unlawfully dismissing her–an apparent pattern complained of by other litigants as well. Her executor may pursue the suit for her estate.
Terra’s Facebook page w/many tearful farewells can be seen by clicking HERE.
UPDATE:
The Mason County Sheriff’s Office was notified just four minutes after midnight on Tuesday morning, May 15, 2012, of a traffic accident on E. Mikkelsen Road, just north of Shelton. Responding Deputies, Firefighters and Emergency Medical workers found that the single vehicle with four occupants had left the roadway. Three occupants sustained different stages of injuries while one female occupant had died.
Deputies Identified the male occupants as Dylan J. Burke, age 24, Jason J. Brown, age 31, and Cody R. Laney, age 21. The deceased female was identified as Terra K. Dittmer, age 38. All four occupants resided in Mason County.
According to witness statements, the four had been celebrating Laney’s 21st birthday at the Towne Pub in Shelton and Burke was to be the designated driver.
The vehicle, a 2003 silver Mercedes Benz was registered to Dittmer. Burke was identified as the driver by his injuries as well as witness statements. Brown and Laney were passengers. Laney was transported via helicopter to Harbor View Medical Center in Seattle for a broken leg and internal bleeding; and Burke was transported via ambulance to Mason General Hospital for leg and head injuries.
May 16, 2012, Burke left Mason General Hospital, but later turned himself in to Deputies at the Mason County Jail. Burke will appear before a Mason County Superior Court Judge sometime this week.
As of 5-22-12, the Mason County Prosecutor’s office reports no criminal filing in the case.
Once a pond rich with food and simple Frogs playing became ruled by an amphibian King. Soon enough there was much croaking and complaining for it was within their nature to be noisy. The uproar continued unabated until one night, a great Stork came, took up residence and ate the frog King. Afterward, the pond was very…very…quiet!
