With all the dry weather I hope everyone is taking extra care with possible fires. It can be something as innocent as a cigarette butt, a piece of glass in dry tinder or a spark from a brush hog hitting a rock. Be safe out there, and be extra careful.

Our animals need extra looking after in these hot days as well, so just a reminder, leave lots of fresh water for them and give them shelter out of the heat.

News from Naselle:

The Finnish-American Folk Festival is again being held in Naselle on July 27, 28 and 29. Bring the whole family and enjoy a weekend of exhibits, lectures, music, dance and food. Learn about the culture, kinship and folklore of local ancestors who came from Finland.

Giants in the Trees will be playing a free concert at the festival on the 28th at 7:15 p.m. for the whole family. Some of my grandchildren will be traveling from Oregon to attend the concert with me.

For more info on Finn-Fest you can check them out online at: http://www.nasellefinnfest.com or call 360 484-3388.

You still have time to purchase tickets to Disney’s Beauty and the Beast presented by PAPA-Peninsula Association of Performing Artists for the next three weekends (7 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays and 2 p.m. on Sundays) through August 5. I have my tickets for this coming weekend and am looking forward to the production. After speaking to several people who have already gone, it looks like a fun performance and very well done.

Tickets can be purchased online at: http://www.papatheater.com.

Westend news:

The Challenge of Champions Tour of Professional Bull Riding is coming to the Skamokawa Fairgrounds this Friday evening with gates open at 6 p.m. This is the real deal, folks. The Wahkiakum Fair Foundation did some incredible fundraising to bring this show to our little community. Should be a real treat. And just another fun thing to do at Bald Eagle Days during another family oriented weekend in Wahkiakum County.

The Grays River Grange #124 holds their Tuesday Farmer’s Market in the Grange Hall located on SR 4 in downtown Grays River. This week we got there early and picked up chard, blueberries, and some delicious cupcakes and blackberry muffins, as well as running into a few neighbors to visit with. Doors open at 2 p.m. and close at 6 p.m. Great prices too.

Once again, Poul and Zenaida Toftemark will open their property to a fantastic weekend for their annual Pig Roast/Potluck and Campout. This year the fun will take place August 3-5. Come in with your camping gear and stay all weekend or just come on Saturday for the pig roast and potluck.

Just a few pointers when you come: Bring your own chairs and beverages. For the potluck, bring a dish or two to share as there is usually a large crowd. There are always fun things to do, swimming, water slide, games and especially just visiting with your friends and neighbors. If you wish to let your children swim, please bring an approved life jacket for each child.

This is an event no one should miss. Poul and Zenaida always outdo themselves in sharing their property, food and fun with everyone, and a beautiful place it is. Thank you Toftemarks for all you do in our community.

Happy Birthday to the following celebrants this week: David Klinger, Sirkka Wirkkala and Donna Tyyska. Wishing each of you a wonderful day.

Happy Anniversary to Melvin and Carol Ross and Ike and Pat Howerton. Here’s to many more celebrations together.