Westside stories

The POW/MIA Missing Man Table is meant to remind viewers of fallen, missing, or imprisoned U.S Service members. Nearly 81,000 American service members remain missing after having served in World War II, the Korean War, the Vietnam War, and other conflicts involving the U.S. There are key elements in each table that are meant to be a reminder to never forget those service members who never came home. The table is round, to show our everlasting concern for our missing men. The cloth is white, symbolizing the purity of their motives when answering the call to serve. The single red rose; displayed in a vase, reminds us of the lives of these Americans and their loved ones and friends who keep the faith while seeking answers. The red ribbon symbolizes our continued determination to account for our missing. A slice of lemon reminds us of their bitter fate; captured and missing in a foreign land. A pinch of salt symbolizes the tears of our missing and their families who long for answers after decades of uncertainty. The lighted candle reflects our hope for their return, alive or dead. The Bible represents the strength gained through faith to sustain us and those lost from our country, founded as one nation under God.The glass is inverted, symbolizing their inability to share a toast. The chair is empty, the seat that remains unclaimed at the table.

Being a Navy veteran, having served in the Vietnam War, Joel Fitts knows about service and sacrifice. Recently, while eating at a restaurant, he witnessed two service members pause and salute the Missing Man Table that was set up near the entry. Following their example, he also paused on his way out to salute the table and to take a moment to remember the men and women who never returned home. This sparked an idea in Joel that a Missing Man Table was needed at American Legion Post 0111. He took it upon himself to purchase the items needed, including the round table, and set it up at Rosburg Hall as a remembrance. If you have the opportunity, be sure to stop by the table at Rosburg Hall. It is a notable tribute to see.

Excitement at the Rosburg Hall Senior Lunch Christmas potluck

After a week of sickness, I was glad to finally be out and about this past week. On Tuesday, the skies literally opened, and rain deluged down on us the entire day. Despite the sun coming out on Wednesday, fields and a few roadways were flooded throughout Grays River and Rosburg. I headed out just before noon to attend the Rosburg Hall Christmas potluck. As I turned down Altoona Pillar Rock Rd., I discovered the roadway to Rosburg Hall covered in water. Uncertain if the potluck was still taking place, I drove over the bridge and saw several cars and trucks in the parking lot. Figuring the potluck was still happening, I turned around at Barr Rd. and headed back. As I turned down the drive, three trucks were making their way through the water. After seeing how deep the water was, I was not about to take the risk of driving through it myself. Thankfully, the gentleman in the first truck let me know I could park at the Rosburg Store and catch a ride.

The Wahkiakum County Sheriff’s department had a few of their vehicles and other men with trucks shuttling people to and from the Rosburg Store parking lot to Rosburg Hall. During lunch, the water continued to rise since high tide wouldn’t peak until 3:00 p.m. Everyone was thankful to the sheriff’s department and the other men for getting us all safely through the water.

As usual, the food was exceptional. The Rosburg Hall ladies prepared a mouthwatering ham, and many people provided sides and a table full of delicious desserts. There was lots of great conversation, I was able to see the Missing Man Table for myself and take some pictures, and raffle tickets were drawn for this year’s fundraiser gift baskets. It was a fun afternoon.

Christmas Boxes distributed at the Westend Food Pantry

On Thursday, several volunteers manned the distribution of 63 Christmas boxes at the Westend Food Pantry. Each family had the option of a ham or a turkey, a dozen eggs, a selection of fresh vegetables, and bags of non-perishable food. There were several bins filled with donated clothing and household items for families to choose from as well. Homemade ham and vegetable soup and a selection of desserts were provided for everyone coming through. The volunteers at the food pantry really did an amazing job. Thank you for all your efforts!

I hope you all have a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!

Westside Happenings

January 2025

Senior Lunch at Rosburg Hall will be the 2nd & 4th Wednesdays in January.

25 – Bingo at Naselle Community Center, 5:30 p.m.

To include an event on the calendar or to give feedback, please contact me at writerlisayeager@outlook.com. You can also follow me on Facebook @ Writer Lisa Yeager.