CHILLY START--If you were lucky, your Saturday morning was not quite as cold as ours in West Valley as it was white with frost when I got up. I guess it's time to winterize even if these sunny daytime hours would lull us into a false sense of security. To top off the change in seasons, it looks like we'll see some rain coming our way if the forecast holds.

THIS WEEKEND--If you're in need of hand tools, power tools, pots & pans and other kitchenware, along with sewing items, books and more, then head to the Skamokawa Grange Hall this weekend. You'll be able to get a bargain and help the Grangers get their new heating system, so every dollar is going to a great cause! Here's hoping they'll see you Oct. 22 or 23 between 9 a.m. and 3 p.m. May you find just what you need.

SPECIAL DAYS--Those celebrating birthdays from Oct. 20-26 are Louis Stornetta, Michelle Collupy, Maddie McClain, Kristie Knowles Langston, Terina Davis, Valle Mae Ledtke, Don Wages, Brianne Markelle Helms, Emily Elliott, Bill Boylan, Myrna Fudge Brown, Craig Nielson, Victoria Wallin, Piper McClain, Jake Schillios, Tim Dickson, Tricia Farmer, Justin Garrison, Elizabeth Dahlen, Nick Vavoudis, Melody Scott, Kelsey Cothren, Mary Heagy, Curtis Everman, Bobby Ferguson and Joel Havens.

Those celebrating anniversaries this week are RJ & Angel Brown, Jason & Rochelle Wallin, Mr. & Mrs. Greg Bain, Mr. & Mrs. Travis Gibson, Wayne & Karen Bell, Greg & Lori Parke and Ron & JoAnne Pedersen. Here's to wonderful celebrations this coming week.

MUSEUM--If you haven't been to the museum in Cathlamet this summer, you've still got two weekends to browse through history this fall. Hours of operation are 1-4 p.m. Saturdays & Sundays. We hope to see you there, and remember, your donations are greatly appreciated.

WARM CLOTHES?--Just a quick reminder that the "Gift of Warmth" is in full swing, so if you'd like to donate your nice coats, hats or gloves to those that may not be able to afford to buy new, then this opportunity is for you! Do you have items but no way to deliver them to the Puget Island Fire Department or the Rivermile 38 Brewery in town? Contact Sherrill 360-951-3985 or Liz 360-200-2247 and they can arrange to have your donations picked up. All items of warmth are appreciated.

COMING TO AN END--The Friends of Skamokawa's online auction ends this Saturday, Oct. 22 at 6 p.m., so if you want to get in on the action, check out all those items ASAP! In case you haven't seen prior notices, the website for the FOS Auction is http://www.32auctions.com/AuctionFOS2022.

JUST IN TIME--I was so happy to see that Daisy Chain Floral has returned, and just in time for the holidays! There was a real ease about calling Nicole and putting in an order from her, and having it delivered was even better; the small fee was worth it! So, "Welcome back, DCF!" Call 360-849-4445 Mon-Fri and put those flower orders in, as the holidays are fast approaching. Shop local and help support our wonderful home businesses.

NEW EXHIBIT--While the Friends of Skamokwa have their online auction coming to an end, they have a new exhibit of beautiful photographs taken in the county, for you to come and view. These photos are in the Interpretive Center and will be on display through November 12. Redmen Hall is open Thursday through Sunday. Call 360-795-3007 for more information.

LOOKING AHEAD--Please spread the word and mark August 18, 2023 down for a reunion of "kids" who attended Skamokawa schools. Call Gary, 360-849-9067 for more information.

SYMPATHIES--I was certainly sorry to hear of the passing of a WHS alumn, Terry Curtin, Class of 1968. It was definitely a devastating accident, as he was preparing to protect his home in Florida from Hurrican Ian, when he fell from a ladder and hit his head; just tragic! His daughter, Rachael Bartlett wanted folks in this area to know what happened and to share this story. Our deepest and sincerest condolences to his entire family.

LIONS CLUB--If you need a walker or other medical equipment, the Lions Club has some available for you to use, free of charge. Just return it when you're finished. Call Carol McClain, 360-795-3337 for more information and a list of items.

CONGRATULATIONS--It looks like a Puget Island boy and WHS alumn has earned his wings and will be flying with Alaska Airlines. Congratulations, Heikki Laukkanen!