Westside Stories

If you've driven down Loop Road in Grays River recently you may have noticed something missing at the intersection with Covered Bridge Road. Last week, members of the Grays River Grange discovered the Covered Bridge sign had been damaged and was barely standing, supported by a single rotted post.

Working with county commissioners, members of the Grange removed the sign and took it to the Grays River Grange. Due to the extent of the damage, it cannot be reinstalled and will instead be displayed at the Grange. A fundraising effort is now underway to raise $2,500 for a new sign to be constructed and painted. Those interested in donating can contact the Grange at grange@wwest.net.

The Grays River Grange manages and maintains Ahlberg Park at the Covered Bridge, Meserve Park on Loop Road, the Grays River Cemetery, and the Grange hall itself, which is no small feat for a volunteer-run organization. The Grange is also planning several community events this year and will continue its long-standing tradition of serving the salmon dinner at the Finnish American Folk Festival in July.

On Jan. 13, a special Grays River Grange meeting was held to make up for the Christmas party that was canceled due to flooding. During the meeting, new officers were installed. Those serving in 2026 include President Charlie Shumar, Vice President Krist Novoselic, Secretary Brooke Bennett, Treasurer Kelly Shumar, Lecturer Robert Pyle, and Chaplain Carol Ervest.

Johnson Park has also announced its 2026 Advisory Board. In an email sent Jan. 8, outgoing President Denise Blanchard thanked members for their support during her time in the role and said she is looking forward to the year ahead with a new board.

The 2026 Johnson Park Advisory Board includes President Tammy Haataja, Vice President Sherry Johnson, Treasurer Robbie Johnson, Member-at-Large Jamie Samms, and Event Coordinator Denise Blanchard.

Finally, mark your calendar for Friday, Feb. 14, at 5:30 p.m. for the Westend Food Pantry's Prime Rib Dinner fundraiser at Rosburg Hall. Tickets are $25 per person or $35 per couple. Takeout orders will only be accepted with advance notice. Tickets can be purchased by contacting Shonda Ware at 360-465-2722 or Diane Hollenbeck at 360-465-2991.

Westside Happenings

January

24 – Exhibition by Darbury Novoselic at

the Grays River Grange, 11 a.m. – 3 p.m.

25 - Exhibition by Darbury Novoselic at

the Grays River Grange, 11 a.m. – 5 p.m.

25 – FAFF Meeting at Appelo Archive

Center, 4 p.m.

February

14 – Westend Food Pantry Fundraising

Dinner at Rosburg Hall, 5:30 p.m.

For a list of regular monthly events, please refer to the Wahkiakum Calendar. To add an event to the calendar or to share a story idea, please contact me at lisa@waheagle.com.