Greater Grays Harbor, Inc. launches virtual auction, announces upcoming speaker series
In place of the annual Leaders Banquet & Business Recognition Awards, Greater Grays Harbor, Inc. (GGHI) is launching a Virtual Community Auction. The auction will open for bidding on Monday, May 3, and close on Monday, May 17.
This online auction features various baskets, gift certificate packages, overnight getaways and more generously donated by businesses in the area. New items are regularly being added to the auction site. Although the auction is not yet open for bids, the site is live so community members can explore what items are available before opening day.
In conjunction with the auction are the addition of keynote speakers. The current confirmed speaker on the calendar is Hilary Franz, Commissioner of Public Lands who will present on May 5, in a moderated discussion with state Rep. Mike Chapman from the 24th District. To register, go to the Upcoming Events calendar on the GGHI website. Additional speakers are set to be added in the coming weeks. Keep an eye the GGHI event calendar for more information.
If you would like to donate an item, visit the auction website at graysharbor.afrogs.org and click ‘Donate an Item’ on the right side of the screen or contact the GGHI office. Donation items must be received by GGHI by no later than April, 16th to be included. All donors receive recognition on the auction site.
Please contact GGHI at info@graysharbor.org or call (360) 532-7888 with any questions.
Campylobacter infections linked to raw milk consumption in multiple counties
OLYMPIA – Five lab-positive campylobacteriosis cases have been identified in individuals who consumed Dungeness Valley Creamery raw milk. The raw milk was purchased in Clallam, Skagit, Kitsap, and Clark Counties.
Dungeness Valley Creamery has issued a voluntary recall of all raw milk product with a ‘Best By’ date of April 13, 2021, or earlier. These products may be contaminated with Campylobacter bacteria, which can cause serious illness. The recalled product is bottled in gallon, half-gallon, quart and pint containers. It was sold to customers in western Washington in the on-farm store, outside retail stores and drop-off locations. Health officials urge consumers not to drink any Dungeness Valley Creamery raw milk product with a ‘Best By’ date of April 13, 2021, or earlier, and to discard any leftover product, or return it to the place of purchase.
The Washington State Department of Health (DOH) is working with Washington State Department of Agriculture (WSDA) and local health investigators during this ongoing investigation.
“Unpasteurized raw milk can carry harmful bacteria and germs. Foodborne illnesses can be caused by many different foods; however, raw milk is one of the riskiest,” said Dr. Scott Lindquist, State Epidemiologist for Communicable Diseases.
Symptoms of Campylobacter infection include fever, diarrhea (often bloody), nausea, vomiting, malaise and abdominal pain. Most people with Campylobacter infection recover on their own, but some need antibiotic treatment. In severe cases, complications may include reactive arthritis, irritable bowel syndrome and Guillain-Barré syndrome. Infants, young children, the elderly, pregnant women and those with a weakened immune system are at greatest risk for severe illness.
More information on the health risks of drinking raw milk can be found on the Washington State Department of Health website.
The production of raw milk in Washington is regulated by the Washington State Department of Agriculture.
