MEET THE ORGANIZERS WHO CALL THEMSELVES THE
“FunGals"
Barb Smith a local resident of Grays Harbor tells us why she began organizing the Quinault Rainforest Mushroom Festival: My fascination with the amazing fungi in the Quinault Rainforest blossomed into a love for mushrooms. For the past three years, I’ve organized a “mini mush fest” celebrating these forest treasures. Last year, serendipity led me to Corinne, and our shared enthusiasm for mushrooms sparked a brilliant idea: reimagining the Quinault Rainforest Mushroom Festival. We aim to inspire an enthusiasm for mushrooms and share in the beauty of the Quinault Rainforest.
Corinne Srsen also a local resident of Grays Harbor tells us how she got involved with the Quinault Rainforest Mushroom Festival: The Quinault Rainforest and its festival at the lodge was my first introduction to mushrooms in the PNW and their beauty. I was immediately hooked on fungi. When I met Barb Smith in the fall of 2023 and learned about the “mini mush fest” at the Rainforest Resort Village, I eagerly seized the opportunity to partner with her and “Foraging with Friends”. This new friendship and our love of mushrooms sparked our fresh approach to this year’s Quinault Rainforest Mushroom Festival, emphasizing public accessibility to the festival and community involvement
Meet Our Volunteers
Rose Tursi — Vendor Coordinator
Professional illustrator and fine craft artist with a longtime passion for mycology, foraging and hiking. Rose has been serving as a board member with WMS for the past two years.
Rose is the Arts Committee Chair for
NAMA (North American Mycological Association) and is Vice President of her local South Sound Mushroom Club in Olympia WA.
Debbi Johnston — Vendor Coordinator
Newly retired HR Professional/Leader for a major airline and veterinary practice. Since travel and pets are two of my passions, I feel lucky that I was able to work in those areas. Currently enjoying the beach life in Ocean Shores with many outdoor activities and crafting. This includes increasing my knowledge in this brand new world (to me) of mushrooms with the help of expert FunGuys and FunGals.
Karen Keebler — Art Director
Karen Keebler is a skilled craft artist residing in East Wenatchee, Washington. Specializing in whimsical paper mache sculptures, Karen's work often highlights the enchanting qualities of animals and the natural world. Her creations are known for their imaginative flair and intricate details. Karen lives with her husband and her one-eyed rescue dog, Lucy, who frequently inspires her artistry and adds joy to her creative journey.
Danielle McGowen— Vendor Director
Danielle joins the team from Hoquiam, WA. She is an avid crafter, specializing in all natural, plastic free bath body and home. Danielle also has a passion for fiber arts, photography, web design and event planning.
She is thrilled to suppot the amazing team at the Quinault Rainforest Mushroom Festival
Her Husband, Kevin McGowen (also pictured) will likely be seen throughout the festival usually behind a camera!
Colton McGowen — Kidzone Coordinator
Colton is the youngest member of the team and loves joining in on the mushroom hunt! He is excited to share his crafts with you as a vendor at the Festival and is your go to guy for KidZone fun!
Bella — Lake Quinault School Intern
Hi I’m Bella. I am a 16-year-old that attends Lake Quinault high school. My favorite color is purple. I have three dogs, one cat and 12 chickens. I enjoy art and volleyball. My favorite season is the fall and I look forward to helping with the Quinault Rainforest Mushroom Festival