Pancakes raise funds; farmers' market open

News from Naselle:

We live in a very special place, with quite a few local businesses that depend on us to help them stay in business. I know that it is often cheaper to drive to Longview or Astoria for most items but I for one would rather pay a little more to shop closer to home and make sure that these businesses remain open.

In Naselle we have a wonderful grocery store, a bank, several restaurants, a hardware store, a liquor store, a couple of espresso stands, a gas station and even a mechanics shop. Check them out and patronize our local businesses. Keep our money local.

Westend news:

The Grays River Valley Center at Johnson Park will host another pancake breakfast this coming Saturday in the cafeteria 8-11 a.m. Come on up and enjoy a delicious meal with your friends and neighbors, for a worthy cause. We have also scheduled another breakfast on August 30, same place and same time.

Proceeds from these breakfasts and other fundraisers help to pay the monthly operating costs of running the center as we receive no money from the county. Our expenses are paid through rental fees, sponsorships and the generosity of your donations.

The Free Friday Night movie in the Grays River Valley Center at Johnson Park is a newly released show for kids, with great revues. Two frogs! One pig! Intrigue! Music! Mayhem! Muppets! Bring the whole family for an entertaining evening on our big screen with surround sound. Concessions are available with pop, candy and popcorn.

Get ready for another blood drive to be held on August 26 at the Valley Bible Church 1-6 p.m. For more information, please contact Susan Burkhalter at 453-2264.

I had the pleasure of a short visit with Georgene Scott earlier this week in her old historical barn on the banks of the Grays River in Rosburg. The old barn is restored and filled with antiques, unique clothing, furniture, glassware, tapestries, dishware, toys, and wooden items, etc. What a delightful place to peruse, if you are looking for gifts or just looking for yourself in a local setting. "George" is a very personable lady, and just full of knowledge when it comes to her treasures in Scott's Country Barn.

I was particularly impressed with a beautiful white, hand made dress with lacy inserts hanging on a red barn wall. The talent of the seamstress a century or so ago is amazing. There was also a gorgeous punch bowl set, with incredibly unique features from Germany, among many other items.

It is open on Friday, Saturday and Sunday from noon to 6 p.m. and by appointment or by chance. Turn south off SR 4 West at Altoona/Pillar Rock Road and follow the signs. You can also visit them via Facebook.

During the gardening months of summer through fall, you can do some of your veggie shopping at the Farmer's Market in Grays River at the Grays River Grange 2-6 p.m. on Tuesdays. They have a nice variety of herbs and vegetables at very reasonable prices. What more can you ask for than delicious home grown food for a good price, especially if you are like me and don't know the first thing about gardening.

The Wednesday Rosburg Senior Lunch Bunch meets at the Rosburg Hall each week for a nutritious meal prepared and served by Pat Potter and her volunteer crew. Thanks Pat for all you folks do for our senior population.

On Thursdays senior meals are also served at the Rosburg Hall and are sponsored by CAP. Lunches are served at noon for both venues.

Happy Birthday to Caleb Corona, Sally Swanson, David Strong, Jeannine Johnson, Ed Boyle, Bob Torppa, Rob Dalton, Danielle Thompson, Carol Rose, Roxanne Didion, Chuck Hendrickson, Scott Johnson, Ryan Wirkkala, Jacob Pakenen, Mike Bighill, Hannah Badger, Jeremy Bennett, Jason Genn, Kelli Revis, Kim Tarabochia, Debbie Bighill, Maia Wise and Rhonda Smalley. Wishing you the best birthday ever.

Happy Anniversary to Jeff and Amber Eaton, Gary and Lori Hamp, Andy and Kristi Mattson, Derrill and Michal Corbin, Robert and Shannon Maki and Greg and Karen Wirkkala. Wishing you many more celebrations together.