Coming festival highlights area's Finnish culture

News from Naselle:

This is it! Bring the family to Naselle for a fun filled weekend of FinnFest, including speakers, films, music performances, games, dancing and food. The event will take place at the Naselle-Grays River Valley School on July 29 and 30 and will conclude on Sunday morning, July 31 with a worship and closing ceremony.

FinnFest takes place every other year in Naselle with free admission (although donations are always welcome and appreciated). This event highlights much of the Finnish culture and daily life over the years, with something for everyone. Come on in and enjoy.

Susan Burkhalter has put out the first call to volunteers for the next blood drive taking place on Wednesday, August 10 from 12:30-5:30 p.m. at the Valley Bible Church. To make an appointment or get more information please call 465-2264. I understand there will be sliders prepared by April Zimmerman and Amazon gift cards in appreciation for this life giving gift.

Westend news:

Another big weekend of fun is coming up very soon at the home of Poul and Zenaida Toftemark in Rosburg. Their annual Pot Luck/Pig Roast/Campout will take place this year on August 5-7. Bring the whole family but please, leave your four footed friends at home. On Saturday afternoon, the pig will be roasted and lunch will be served. Bring a dish or two to share, your own chair and your own favorite beverage to drink while you enjoy the beautiful grounds, swim (remember life jacket for the kiddos), play games or just visit with friends and relax.

I would like to say thank you to Poul and Zenaida for all the preparations you do prior to this event, for opening your home to everyone in such a generous gesture and bringing the whole community together. The two of you are truly unique friends and such an example of what community is all about.

The Free Saturday night movie being shown this week in the Grays River Valley Center at Johnson Park is rated R. The 2004 epic film will begin at 6:30 p.m.

It’s the middle of summer vacation for families and our local food banks are still in need of more items that can be prepared easily and simply as well as being nourishing. Many of the children are provided with at least one meal a day during the school year, but some will not have that same opportunity during the summer. Please donate to your local food bank, including non perishable items such as cereals, bread, canned meats, macaroni and cheese, peanut butter, ramen, etc.

The West End Food Pantry is open on Thursdays, 1-5 p.m. Monetary donations are also accepted and appreciated. For more information please call Suzie Whalen or Shonda Ware.

The Rosburg Wednesday Senior Lunch Bunch meets every week for a delicious meal prepared and served by Pat Potter and her volunteer crew in the Rosburg Hall.

On Thursdays, CAP also sponsors a senior lunch at the Rosburg Hall. Meals are served at noon for both venues.

Happy Birthday to Karyn Jacot, Gene Strong, Shirley Herrold, Ryan Ullakko, Jennifer Boggs, Katie Olson, Alissa Dorman, Nick Nikkila, Joni Matthews, Scott Smith and Annie Strange. Wishing each of you a perfect day.

Happy Anniversary to Otis and Renee Hunsinger, Alan and Diane Bennett and Nick and Dee Nikkila. Here’s to many more celebrations together.

An extra special Happy Anniversary to Poul and Zenaida Toftemark. Enjoy your celebration, and my wish for many more. You are a very special couple.