As October comes to a close, I want to take a moment to introduce myself and express my appreciation for the warm welcome I have received throughout Grays Harbor County. Since stepping into the role of Executive Director of Greater Grays Harbor, Inc. (GGHI) on October 1st, I have had the opportunity to meet with business owners, community leaders, elected officials, and regional partners who share a commitment to the continued success of our communities. I am also eager to meet and engage partners across Grays Harbor as I continue to familiarize myself.
One thing has become abundantly clear during my first month: Grays Harbor has tremendous potential, supported by individuals and organizations who are genuinely invested in its future. I look forward to building upon that foundation.
- October Highlights
One of our October highlights was the Business Forum Lunch, State of the Forest, held on October 20th. We welcomed representatives from the forestry industry for an informative discussion on forest ownership, management practices, timber supply, and the economic significance of forestry throughout Grays Harbor County.
Forestry has long been a cornerstone of our regional economy, supporting family-wage jobs, local businesses, and the communities we serve. The discussion provided valuable perspectives on the opportunities and challenges facing the industry and reinforced the importance of collaboration between businesses, industry leaders, and community stakeholders.
I would like to extend my appreciation to our guest speakers and everyone who attended. These conversations are essential to keeping our business community informed and engaged on issues that directly affect our regional economy.
- Business After Hours
Richard Foster & the 1st Security Bank team at Business After Hours on October 20th.
October also provided another opportunity for our members to connect during Business After Hours, hosted by 1st Security Bank at its Aberdeen branch. This gathering brought together local business professionals and community members for an evening of networking, relationship-building, and collaboration.
In recognition of Breast Cancer Awareness Month, the event also featured a Pink Links display, highlighting an important cause while bringing our community together.
I want to thank 1st Security Bank for hosting and for its continued engagement with our local business community.
- Looking Ahead: Upcoming Events and Opportunities
As we move into November and the holiday season, I look forward to continuing conversations with our members, strengthening partnerships throughout the county, and identifying opportunities where GGHI can provide meaningful assistance.
We will continue supporting business networking opportunities, community events, and programs that connect our members with resources and one another. I also encourage everyone to support our local businesses during the upcoming holiday season. Whether shopping, dining, or utilizing local services, every dollar spent locally contributes to the economic vitality of our communities. Check out our regularly updated events calendar featuring more than 600 events throughout 2026, with something happening in every corner of Grays Harbor.
Beyond our upcoming events, one of my priorities is strengthening GGHI's role as a resource for businesses throughout Grays Harbor County. Through business retention and expansion efforts, entrepreneurial support, and regional collaboration, we will continue working to identify challenges, create opportunities, and support sustainable economic growth.
I want to thank our members and Leader's Circle investors, Board of Directors, Ambassador Team, staff, and community partners for their continued commitment to Greater Grays Harbor, Inc. It is a privilege to serve this organization and the communities of Grays Harbor County. I look forward to working collaboratively to strengthen our local economy, support our existing businesses, and create new opportunities for the future.
Richard Foster
Executive Director
Greater Grays Harbor, Inc.
rfoster@graysharbor.org
(360) 532-7888