GPA Welcomes New President

The Grayling Promotional Association – a group known for its local events, charity, and beautification efforts – met on Tuesday, December 20, at Gray Rock Pub & Grub and conducted a ceremonial passing of the gavel from past-president Patty Hawkins to new president Becky Walrath.

Walrath, a longtime Grayling Promotional Association member, said her favorite GPA event is the Festival of Trees. The Festival of Trees – held in the Grayling Mini Mall – gives visitors a chance to win decorated trees and gift baskets. Walrath is the co-chair of the event.

“My most favorite thing is Festival of Trees. The joy that it brings to everybody. It seems to bring the town together,” Walrath said.

The Grayling Promotional Association – a “dedicated group of volunteers,” according to Walrath – had another busy year in 2022. The group conducted two Junque in the Trunk yard sale events, its annual arts and crafts show during the Harvest Festival, the Festival of Trees, and the Light Up Your Life home holiday decorating contest. In town, GPA sponsored art projects for beautification and conducted its annual flower planting efforts. 

Walrath said the arts and crafts show “seems to be picking up speed and getting better and better” and the art project beautification (at Tinker’s Junction, Walgreens, and the post office) is “absolutely beautiful.” 

Walrath said the Grayling Promotional Association uses some of the money it raises for local projects and causes upon request.

“People come and ask for money; if it meets our mission statement we try to give it,” Walrath said.

Walrath said she’s eager to take on the new role with GPA.

“Patty, our past-president, did a fantastic job this past year. She had a whole lot of challenges and she handled them well,” Walrath said. “I just look forward to being president this year and hope that we continue all that we do that is good for Grayling.”

Walrath said GPA will be celebrating its 40th anniversary in 2023 and members are looking at ways to mark the milestone.

“Forty years of doing good,” Walrath said.