Downriver Dispatches

Giants hold benefit concert at Grange

Last Thursday, Grays River Grange #124 had a concert with Giants in the Trees as their record release benefit concert to benefit Moon Mertz who has multiple sclerosis.

People can still donate to help by sending donations through PayPal at rosecreekretreat@gmail.com. Robert Novoselic was on hand early to help prepare for this event. This band has an exceptional sound that is new and fascinating. Giants in the Trees electrified the audience with songs from their second album along with some of their favorites from their first album. Jillian Raye with her magical voice played a banjo as well as bass. Ray Prestegard played impressive guitar. Erik Friend mesmerizes you on the drums. Krist Novoselic had some amazing riffs on and had a surprising sound with his accordion, and Kyli Prestegard and Jennifer Johnson sang backup vocals that blend to form a noticeably new sound coming out of Wahkiakum County. Alex Nelson helped as the stage tech.

Grange Master Krist Novoselic is the one to contact about Grange activities, meetings, or rental of the Grange. Anyone interested or just has questions can call the Grange at 360-465-2268.

The date and time for the Grays River Cemetery cleanup is May 14 at 5 p.m. The Seal River Cemetery will have one on May 18 at 10 a.m. and everyone is welcome.

The Naselle/Grays River Valley Seniors luncheon meets every Wednesday at noon for all those who are 55 and older; also the potluck will be at the Valley Bible Church on every fourth Wednesday. Anyone who would like further information, please contact the Naselle/Grays River Valley Seniors' president Diane Hollenbeck at dianemarye@gmail.com or phone her at 1(360) 465-2991. Anyone interested in renting the Rosburg Hall is encouraged to contact Sonja Kruse at 465-2251 or Barbara Rose at 465-2251. Thursday luncheon at noon at the Rosburg Hall is sponsored by the Community Action Program (CAP) out of Kelso/Longview. Any questions, contact Denise Rae at (360) 425-3430 extension 259.

I suggest you contact Shonda Ware at the West End Food Pantry at Johnson Park for those of you who are new to the area and are in need of food or call (360) 465-2344. The food for you is free at no charge. The pantry is more like a little local grocery store.

The Naselle Lutheran Church hosted their Annual Salad Luncheon last Saturday. I recommended this event. The salads were filling and delicious for even the pickiest of eaters. Their motivation for this charity event is to give the proceeds to support missions. While speaking with Gail Gacke, she informed me that their women's group named "Priscilla Circle" has been more instrumental in helping the community than people realize. For instance, the Rosburg Hall has a new oven with their help, and they donate to the West End Food Pantry at Johnson Park. For further information, contact 360-484-3826.

Another concert ahead

The Naselle Community Center located at 14 Parpala Road will host their second concert this Saturday at 6:30 p.m., and it will be followed by desserts and coffee downstairs. The concert will feature Carl Wirkkala and his cousin, Lucas Homgren. They will sing original country music songs. Also featured will be Kim Angelis on violin and Jennifer Goodenberger on piano. They will share numbers from their recent tour, including some piano music from the famous Finnish composer John Sibelius. Also featured will be Pastor Anna Haugen from the Naselle Lutheran Church and her woodwind ensemble associated with the North Coast Symphonic Band. This concert will help to offset costs for upgrading the new community art center.

Contact Barb Swanson for more information: 360-484-3602.

Naselle Musical "Annie Jr." coming to NHS

The story based on the book by Thomas Meehan will be performed at the Naselle School Commons on May 10 and 11 at 7 p.m. and May 12 at 3 p.m. It is directed by Karl Johnson, and the musical director and choreographer is Kelsi Nelson. Tickets are $10 at the door. The doors will open 30 minutes before the performance. "Annie Jr." is presented through special arrangement with and all authorized materials are supplied by Music Theatre International from New York.