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05.31.2016 Tuesday Column

5/31/2016

1 Comment

 
Vision:Toledo and DiscoverLewisCounty both note: A hearty congratulations and job well done to the Toledo High School baseball team for capturing the 2B state title!
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***

Reservations required - June 1 Toledo Senior Center Nutrition Lunch menu offers chicken strips, tater tots, coleslaw and strawberry shortcake, June 3 broccoli chicken, garlic mashed potatoes, sliced carrots, jello with pears and a dinner roll. Nutrition Lunches Wednesday and Friday are sponsored in part by Area Agency on Aging. Cost is $3 for those 60+ years of age. Contact Diana, diana.haug@lewsicountywa.gov or call (360)864-2112.

Also: Items now being accepted for Toledo Senior Center’s noted Second Time Around Sale, scheduled Friday and Saturday during Cheese Days. For specifics, contact Diana, diana.haug@lewsicountywa.gov or call (360)864-2112.

***


Today: Annual Toledo Scholarship Awards and Recognition Night 7 PM at Toledo High School.

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Wednesday: FCCLA enjoys the benefits of their hard work all year with an afternoon at the park.

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Thursday:  June 2nd Toledo High School Band and Choir Concert in the Commons 7 p.m. All are welcome.

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Friday Powder Puff football game 7:00pm 
Toledo versus Onalaska
Toledo High School Memorial Stadium, $5.
Concessions and raffle. 

***

June 4 – (Saturday) National Trails Day. State Parks Fee-
Free Day. Link here. 

***

Tech Tuesdays: From trusted source MakeUseOf comes the unsettling news that MySpace got hacked (link here), AND Facebook is set to start tracking you across the Web, even if you don’t have a Facebook account. As Brian Holden notes: Facebook ads based on your web browsing is the new "turning on a light to reveal your spouse pointing a gun at you from the armchair," right? Check it out here.

Toledo’s own source A Grey Area Computer Repair reports the latest Facebook Friend Request Scam (and how to spot it), Windows 10 automatically updating on your PC (and what to do about it), and Netflix’s simple speed test. If you missed any of these precautions, drop your laptop, tablet or cell phone off. Link here.

***

From the School Garden Initiative, Brooke Acosta says:
We are celebrating the garden with students next Thursday and Friday and would like to set up a produce stand. Unfortunately, we don't have enough in our garden for 300 students.

Can you send out a community request for home garden produce anyone is willing to share? You can point them to me by email, brookeannsell@hotmail.com or phone (360)219-6161.

Thanks, Brooke

***

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05.27.2016 Friday Column and Weekend Outlook

5/27/2016

1 Comment

 

Hey, Common Grounds! Are you ready for THIS?
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Photos courtesy of Rachel Wallace
​
Long-time Toledo column sponsor Gee Cee’s Truck Stop, family owned and one of the last indie operations on I-5, has been my home base this week as I pen these Daily Columns. An early morning arrival revealed a lone figure hard at work revitalizing the rockery and corner garden beneath the lighted signboard, evenings remarkable progress.

With Common Grounds, Steamboat Alley, Veterans Wall of Honor  and other projects transforming patchwork plots and neglected throughways around Toledo, only my daily commute brought this little gem to my attention.
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Thanks to Rachel Wallace, her grandfather’s centerpiece is resurrected and gloriously brilliant in design and hue. Our country’s colors are proudly displayed just in advance of Memorial Day weekend, a reminder to remember those who gave all to preserve our freedom.
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Ever the symbol of Love, Sacrifice and Life Everlasting, the Cross includes stepping stones to Rachel’s prayer rock, a contemplative island painstakingly placed rock by rock, piece by piece, with deliberation and care.

Says Rachel: This Garden is for you, Grandpa.

***

Gee Cee’s will feature some of the Historical Society’s vintage prints throughout their restaurant soon, according to my inside source. Watch for updates.

***

Linda Bird-Sonne of Common Grounds says:
Hello all! Let me know who's up for some roll'n and rock'n activity today. Meet 10 a.m. at the Post Office to lay some landscape cloth and the river rock for the start of the garden design.
Supplies to bring - wheelbarrow, shovel, gloves, landscape cloth (Gary), design plans (Gary), drinking water.
Thanks.
Don't forget to R.S.V.P. at this email address!

***

Also today: Cowlitz Prairie Grange Jam Night 7:00 p.m. second, fourth and fifth Fridays. Performers and supporters welcome. Donation at door. Contact Tom Boone, tomboone46@yahoo.com or (360)262-3696.

***

Support - Al-Anon AFG meets 7 p.m. Fridays at the Presbyterian Church, 312 Augustus.
​
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Through Monday: The Morgan Arts Centre is hosting an Estate Sale of Nana & Grandpa's household stuff. Nana and Grandpa lived in the same house for more than 68 years.
Nana grew-up in England and met Grandpa during WWII. Needless to say, she collected lots of British treasures.
There is something for everyone. Great prices...we don't want to keep this any longer. Come by/buy and have a look.
Sale at: Morgan Arts Centre 10-5 each day. Located at 190 Plomondon Rd., just north of Toledo, Washington, 98591. Call (360)864-4278 or email Di, di@morganartscentre.com.

***

From the School Garden Initiative, Brooke Acosta says:
We are celebrating the garden with students next Thursday and Friday and would like to set up a produce stand. Unfortunately, we don't have enough in our garden for 300 students.

Can you send out a community request for home garden produce anyone is willing to share? You can point them to me by email, brookeannsell@hotmail.com or phone (360)219-6161.

Thanks, Brooke

***

Reservations required - June 1 Toledo Senior Center Nutrition Lunch menu offers chicken strips, tater tots, coleslaw and strawberry shortcake, June 3 broccoli chicken, garlic mashed potatoes, sliced carrots, jello with pears and a dinner roll. Nutrition Lunches Wednesday and Friday are sponsored in part by Area Agency on Aging. Cost is $3 for those 60+ years of age. Contact Diana, diana.haug@lewsicountywa.gov or call (360)864-2112.

Also: Items now being accepted for Toledo Senior Center’s noted Second Time Around Sale, scheduled Friday and Saturday during Cheese Days. For specifics, contact Diana, diana.haug@lewsicountywa.gov or call (360)864-2112.  

***

Early Alert:

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And from Toledo School District’s Facebook page:
Congrats to our THS Track athletes who will be competing at the State Track Meet at EWU in Cheney this Friday and Saturday. Link here.

***

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05.26.2016 Thursday Column

5/26/2016

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Toledo Lions Club Firewood Sale $450 delivered (up to 15 miles; add’l charge beyond 15 miles). Mike, (360)880-6052. Check out their link here.
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Photo courtesy Toledo Lions Club

Bob says: New Bricks are being delivered (for the Veterans Wall of Honor), and possibly placed on the Wall by June 1. 2016. 

***

Memorial Day Weekend offers several stay-cation options:

Linda says: Hello all,
Let me know who's up for some roll'n and rock'n activity this Friday, May 27th. Will all meet 10 a.m. at the Post Office to lay some landscape cloth and the river rock for the start of the garden design.
Supplies to bring; wheelbarrow, shovel, gloves, landscape cloth (Gary), design plans (Gary), drinking water.
Thanks.  Don't forget to R.S.V.P. at this email address!
-Linda Bird-Sonne

(*Wait’ll you see tomorrow’s like-minded beautification effort in the greater Toledo area from the new generation of a long-time local family biz.)

***

May 27 Cowlitz Prairie Grange Jam Night 7:00 p.m. second, fourth and fifth Fridays. Performers and supporters welcome. Donation at door. Contact tomboone46@yahoo.com or (360)262-3696.

***

Support - Al-Anon AFG meets 7 p.m. Fridays at the Presbyterian Church, 312 Augustus.

***

Thursday through Monday the Morgan Arts Centre hosts an estate sale featuring British memorabilia and treasures collected from a WWII war bride transplanted in the Northwest. Located at 190 Plomondon Rd., just north of Toledo, Washington, 98591. Call (360)864-4278 or email Di, di@morganartscentre.com

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From DiscoverLewisCounty Facebook: Take a hike! Find a place to stay in south Lewis County (link here) and head to the Mount St. Helens area for a real treat.

***

Kemp Olson Park offers something for everyone, from the Veteran’s Wall of Honor to three large playground structures for kids, modern bathrooms and a quarter-mile loop to walk your dog, horseshoe pits and the Rose Garden (currently under renovation by Common Ground, first phase installed by the weekend) and our familiar on-site Veteran and local Personality Rick Kindle (who always offers me coffee). Get away for an hour or a day. Covered kitchen in case of showers.

South County Park (Wallace Pond) still sports a few fish from the Kids Fishing Derby along with a ¾ mile paved path, multiple docks for angling or lounging, benches along the way and playgrounds plus bathrooms.

Toledo Boat Launch offers day permits, has a nice pocket park with gazebo and benches overlooking the Cowlitz River. Fishing licenses available at Riverview NAPA and Deli across the street plus bait and more. Don’t forget to take advantage of the LifeVest Loaner Stations at both Boat Launch and South County Parks.

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Memorial Day seems to also signal the beginning of Garage Sale Season, truly something for everyone.

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Monday closures include Post Office, banks, libraries, schools and Toledo Senior Center. Gee Cee’s Truck Stop, however, will be open 24/7, as always.

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Gotta hand it to our cousins across the freeway. They don’t give up easily. Check out WinlockNeedsInternet’s latest post “FCC Step One: Informal Complaints” here. Atta Girl, Michelle!

***

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05.25.2016 Wednesday Column

5/25/2016

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Rachel says: Deal is sealed! Last night The Other Toledo caught sight of activity and smiles inside the soon-to-be-opened SteamBoat Plaza. The new proprietor was on hand to assure full steam ahead to bring espresso to the other side of the street, along with full mani/pedi services. I can almost smell the coffee!
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Early Bird Alert: Those enjoying a stay-cation over the Memorial Day weekend get the jump on a rare treat. Thursday through Monday the MAC hosts an estate sale featuring British memorabilia and treasures collected from a WWII war bride transplanted in the Northwest. The Morgan Arts Centre is located at 190 Plomondon Rd., just north of Toledo, Washington, 98591.
Call (360)864-4278 or email Di, di@morganartscentre.com

***

Bob says: I have contacted the Mason and as soon as the Bricks arrive we will put them on the Wall. I should know more today. Veteran’s Wall of Honor in Kemp Olson Park welcomes visitors honoring service members past and present during the Memorial Day weekend.

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Evidence of Common Ground’s beautification movement was seen in yesterday’s overhaul and grooming of 4 planter boxes gracing Timberland Bank’s facade:

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Recap: Last night’s vision:Toledo Arts, Rec and Events meeting went into overtime with a full crowd around the table.

Old Biz -

Mayor Steve Dobosh reported progress across all aspects of the Strategic Plan (link here), including Toledo’s latest Cool and Connected grant.

Pat Caldwell reported the Library’s new computers are installed. Printing is not set up yet but Chuck is working on it. 46 third graders came to visit the library last Friday. Roxie read stories to them, they toured the History Room and heard about the summer reading program. Grant was submitted to Humanities Washington to help pay expenses of presentations such as Ethan Siegel’s April guest talk.

Joh Jones and Pam McEachern talked about how the group is sorting through conflicting Toledo histories. They are researching the Rochon and Kellogg families along with the Cowlitz Tribal history.  If you want to learn about Toledo's rich history, attend one of their meetings, fourth Mondays monthly. Next one: 4 p.m. June 27 at the Greater Toledo Community Library.

Brooke Acosta sent this email about the School Garden Initiative: The garden is growing! We have added a corn and pumpkin patch and will be adding 10 more blueberry bushes to the future orchard area. We are in the process of building 6 new raised beds that will need soil. We are looking for someone who can haul 10 yds of soil from Great Western supply in Tumwater. June 2nd and 3rd are our last garden science days during school hours for the year. We are planning a celebration of the kid's accomplishments with some fresh produce from the garden and strawberry rhubarb. We will also be installing the garden sign which was drawn by a student and voted the winner by the students.  Installing a deer fence is the next big priority and setting up a watering schedule for the summer. Gary Whiteside of Common Grounds and Toledo School District Supt. Chris Rust will look into installing an automatic watering system.

Jamie Cummings reported that Steamboat Alley’s first work party met May 22 to paint the wall of the Delin building using recycled paint. Paola de la Concha is designing a mural about Toledo's past, present & future. She asks for ideas from folks about the subject matter. Email her at paoladelaconcha@gmail.com. The next work party will build planters 10 a.m. June 12 at the Alley.

Pam Olmstead via email on the Wine & Cheese Garden July 9: The liquor license has been mailed. I foresee no problems!  I will be in contact with Steve & Cheryl Padula to finalize which wineries will be attending. Ethan Siegel is handling the food portion this year!  

New Projects -

Common Ground Flag Pole - Linda Bird-Sonne, excerpts via email: This garden (located at the Post Office Flag Pole site) is Common Ground's flagship of future planned projects and will be called the River's Edge Garden. Centrally located, the garden is designed to be cozy and cheerful and to represent everyone's hometown feel. As of May 18th, 2016, the River's Edge Garden has undergone its initial dramatic transformation from a randomly-planted garden overwhelmed by encroaching weeds to a fresh canvas sporting a promising layer of mulch. Purchase of plants is underway.

City Park Entry, Katie Pomeroy via email: The compost is now spread. Thanks to Brian Dennis, the soil looks great!

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Marlea is planning on picking up the sand Wednesday. Dale Pomeroy pressure washed all the stones and it looks great! Plants will be in by Friday.

Community Clean Up - Mayor Dobosh presented a list of tasks to help spruce up the town.  Volunteers are asked to meet at the City Boat Launch 9 a.m. Saturday, June 4.

Walk in the Park - Jill Davis via email: The Walk in the Park will be held on Saturday September 24, 2016. Registration/Check-in will begin 9 a.m. and the walk will start at 10 am. There will be a $15.00 entry fee. Each entrant will recieve a t-shirt. All monies from the registration fees, quilt raffle, and sponsors will go into an account with v:T and then be used as a partial match for the RCO grant that the City is applying for to renovate the RV camping sites and install an RV dump station in the Kemp Olson Memorial (City) Park.

Other Business - 

Toledo School District Supt. Rust handed out the Toledo School District's Capital Development plan. He is seeking the public's input to help decide which improvements should be addressed in the upcoming bond issue. He issued an invitation to all stakeholders to attend Facilities Advisory Committee meetings 6 p.m. third Wednesdays monthly at the high school District website FAC link here). He reminded everyone that all District board meeting documents including agendas and minutes are available online (District page link here). For more info contact Chris Rust, crust@toledoschools.us  or the District Office at (360)864-6325

Next vision:Toledo A.R.E. meeting 6:30 p.m. Tuesday, June 28 at the Morgan Arts Centre. ​

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05.24.2016 Tuesday Column

5/24/2016

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Now remember, we’re all neighbors here, and while it’s great to be one of the Coolest Small Towns in Washington, not to mention one of 5 Cool and Connected small towns in the USA, there’s something to be said for relaxing. Guess who made the list? Check out the Top 12 slow-paced towns in our state here.

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Recap: Monday’s Common Ground gang met at the Rose Garden next to the Veterans Wall of Honor in Kemp Olson Park after 5 p.m. Monday to root out the few weeds remaining and begin adding rich compost delivered last Thursday afternoon. Some plants small trees are already on hand to begin, and sand will be delivered Tuesday for one section.


​Today:
WHAT -- monthly vision:Toledo meeting
WHEN -- 6:30 p.m.
WHERE -- MORGAN ARTS CENTRE
Contact -- Di Morgan    di@morganartscentre.com
This month’s meeting packs a lot into the six weeks remaining before Cheese Days. Besides the Common Ground group marshalling all the green thumbs to do their part, reports on Clean Up Day June 4, Steamboat Alley progress, Historical Society, Community Library and so much more. Visit www.morganartscentre.com or call (360)864-4ART.

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Last Tuesday/Wednesday of each month New Life Community Food Bank 10 a.m. - noon. Serving our community area of Toledo, by sharing the love of Christ thru the essential needs we all have. Website link here.

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Wednesday relax at the Community Library with knitting, crocheting or other  needlework and collect tips and techniques with Cindy Quick and Kathy Tyner 3-5 p.m.

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Cowlitz Prairie Grange 6:30 p.m. meeting is a cake-and-ice-cream affair fourth Wednesdays, potluck second Wednesdays. Getting in gear for the 52nd Gas Show and Threshing Bee August 26-28. Grange Hall at 5180 Jackson Highway. Contact Sandy Bickar, (360)864-2601.

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Thursday join Harriet Whisler for this month's Adult Page Turners.
Check out the book sale while you’re there, and consider training to volunteer this summer as a fill-in. On Facebook here or call (360)864-4247.

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May 27 Toledo Food Bank open 10 a.m. - 1 p.m. second and fourth Fridays monthly behind City Hall.

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May 27 Cowlitz Prairie Grange Jam Night 7:00 p.m. second, fourth and fifth Fridays. Performers and supporters welcome. Donation at door. Contact tomboone46@yahoo.com or (360)262-3696.

***

Leading the Memorial Day Weekend, The Veteran’s Museum in Chehalis offers a rare opportunity. This presentation on the sinking of the USS Indianapolis, the US Navy's greatest disaster during World War II, brings a survivor of the incident and other special guests. Details from Discover Lewis County here.

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Di says: We do have room for more students to enroll in either of the two weeks of Camp Picasso and in the Childrens' Theater Workshop held here in July. Email Di, di@morganartscentre.com to have more information and enrollment forms sent to you. On Facebook here.

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05.23.2016 Monday Column

5/23/2016

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Rachel says: We are spreading the word!

SteamBoat Plaza is on it's way. We will be located on the corner of State Route 505 and Ramsey Way, former home of the chiropractor and old coffee shop. We will offer espresso, a small gift selection, hair, nails and pedis. We are working hard at getting things in place to open and will keep you posted as to when that will be.

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Today: Toledo Historical  Society meets 4 p.m. fourth Mondays monthly at the Library. On Facebook, link here.

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Also today:
WHEN -- 5 pm, Monday, May 23
WHERE -- CITY PARK ENTRANCE
WHAT -- begin planting new plants
Contact -- Katie Pomeroy  kfjpomeroy@yahoo.com


Tuesday:
WHEN -- 6:30 pm, Tuesday, May 24
WHERE -- MORGAN ARTS CENTRE
WHAT -- monthly vision:Toledo meeting
 Contact -- Di Morgan    di@morganartscentre.com
The heat is on as Cheese Days draw near, too much to list here. Visit http://morganartscentre.com/ or call (360)864-4ART.

***

Last Tuesday/Wednesday of each month New Life Community Food Bank 10 a.m. - noon. Serving our community area of Toledo, by sharing the love of Christ thru the essential needs we all have. Website link here.

***

Reservations required - May 25 Toledo Senior Center Nutrition Lunch menu offers lemon chicken, Italian vegetables, cinnamon apples, roasted red potatoes and dinner roll, May 27 chicken strips, tater tots, coleslaw and strawberry shortcake. Nutrition Lunches Wednesday and Friday are sponsored in part by Area Agency on Aging. Cost is $3 for those 60+ years of age. Contact Diana,diana.haug@lewsicountywa.gov or call (360)864-2112.

***

From Toledo First Baptist Church:
​We have several opportunities this summer for children in our community.

June 20-24           Vacation Bible School
              Time: 9:15 am-12:30
For children 4 years old through 6th grade; Youth; and Adults
              Cost:  Free
This year’s theme, Submerged, will help us to see what’s underneath as we explore the depths of the ocean through Bible study, missions, crafts, music, recreation, and snacks.


July 5-8                 High Power Soccer Camp
              Time:  9:00-Noon
For children 5 years old through 6th grade
              Cost: $25.00
Come develop your soccer skills whether a beginner or intermediate.


July 18-22            Kid’s Camp
For children who have completed 1st through 6th grade
              Cost:  $170.00  (Register early to reserve your spot)

Located on beautiful Clear Lake up in the Cascade Mountain.
              Scholarships are available upon request.              
Register online for any or all of these events at our website: toledofirstbaptist.com. Or contact our office at (360)864-2550.

***
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05.20.2016 Friday Column & Weekend Outlook

5/20/2016

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Yesterday’s School District Board meeting marked the first done paperlessly, marking the launch of the District’s new online agenda and minutes page (link here). The big news: chocolate milk, long requested by students but until recently outside the budget, will make a comeback on the lunch menu.

In summary: unidentified water loss at the high school was a priority concern, monies to be moved to the general fund to mitigate the issue.
Rev Trak will permit online payments for everything from school lunches to season passes.
Elementary test levels in reading and math rose by almost double to more than double across grades 2 through 4.
Middle School testing was complete for grades 6 & 7, grade 8 finishing next week. No results were posted yet.
High school testing saw only two outside acceptable test range in math and algebra, a significant improvement and better than the state average.
Gabe Fuentes, THS Junior Class President, requested the Board consider a plan for a 2-day Disneyland trip for his graduating Class of 2017. Approved to continue planning and further fundraising.
Larae Grove, Point Guard Club, is researching backboards and equipment such as scoring screen/timer visible from locker rooms.
May enrollment 737, above the 700 estimate.
ThoughtExchange current contract covers two more online surveys such as the one just completed on yesterday’s Facilities Advisory Committee. These will be combined with the paper surveys, results posted online shortly.
FAC: Including SCAP funding from the state, current projections for renovations, repairs and upgrades to all schools is $17-18 million, absent the last bond numbers comparison. School staff and faculty are invited to add their voices to the discussion on prioritizing these upgrades.
ACT - Academic Collaborative Time - is looking to increase from 5 days to 15/annually. Results include half-days and early dismissal for students. Concerns about after-school sports and child supervision were put forth by some parents, though only one showed up at a special meeting arranged by Supt. Rust to address the matter. Overall the change met with approval.
Raising the athletic director’s annual stipend was promoted in view of additional assigned duties. Approved.
Policies review: first reading, re: non-resident student. Second reading, re: Compliant in all areas regarding restraint and isolation excepting training for all staff.
Outside consultation to determine whether McKinstry’s pump figures were reasonable. Figures from CSG run around $200 thousand, McKinstry’s around $800 thousand. Value engineers would identify the legitimate need for repairing and/or replacing various components of the school’s operating systems.
Encouraging faculty and staff to bring attention to upgrades missing from the current estimates, such an automated school bell system for the high school.
Meeting adjourned 8:28 p.m.

***

Yesterday’s City Planning Commission did not hold their regularly scheduled meeting. Commission meets third Thursdays monthly in Council Chambers at City Hall. Website: http://www.toledowa.us/main.html

***

Today - Pat says: Mrs Shipp's and Mrs Subject's third grade classes will be taking a walking field trip to the Toledo Library on Friday May 20. Roxie Phillips will read a story to them, they will tour the History Room and learn about the summer reading program. This will be a first time visit to the library for many and a trip that will hopefully lead to many more visits this summer. Visit Friends of the Toledo Library on Facebook here or call (360)864-4247.

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Also Today - Toledo’s celebrated Astrophysicist Ethan Siegel will be speaking on Fate of the Universe (and autographing books, too!) at Centralia College, Walton Science Center, Room 121 at noon. Free. Centralia College blog link on Siegel’s talk here.

***

Support - Al-Anon AFG meets 7 p.m. Fridays at the Presbyterian Church, 312 Augustus.

​***

Saturday:
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Sunday - Steamboat Alley Cleanup Project 10 a.m - 5 p.m. with a pizza lunch provided. We're going to be cleaning and priming the wall for the mural. I'll also have supplies on hand to start building planters if we have a good turnout. We could use garden hoses, ladders, paint rollers w/ extension handles, paint brushes, extension cords, and drop cloths if you've got them. I'll also happily take donations of paint trays, paint roller covers, masking tape, and wall cleaner.
I look forward to seeing you there! Contact Jamie Cummings,     jamie.cummings.toledo@gmail.com

***

Also Sunday:
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Toledo Historical  Society meets 4 p.m. fourth Mondays monthly at the Library. On Facebook, link here.

***

Tuesday - vision:Toledo Arts, Rec and Events committee meets 6:30 p.m. fourth Tuesdays monthly at the MAC. The heat is on as Cheese Days draw near, too much to list here. Visit http://morganartscentre.com/ or call (360)864-4ART.

***

Reservations required - May 25 Toledo Senior Center Nutrition Lunch menu offers lemon chicken, Italian vegetables, cinnamon apples, roasted red potatoes and dinner roll, May 27 chicken strips, tater tots, coleslaw and strawberry shortcake. Nutrition Lunches Wednesday and Friday are sponsored in part by Area Agency on Aging. Cost is $3 for those 60+ years of age. Contact Diana, diana.haug@lewsicountywa.gov or call (360)864-2112.

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05.19.2016 Thursday Column

5/19/2016

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Yesterday: Caught in the act!
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Photos courtesy of Linda Bird-Sonne, Brian Dennis, Gary Whiteside and Joh Jones (L-R)

In the first incident of spontaneous civil beautification captured on film in broad daylight* four rogues identifying themselves as Common Grounds uprooted weeds, overturned soil, and left telltale compost ready for hardy perennials and low-profile greenery in front of the Post Office. (* Gallery 505’s proprietress has been seen frequently around the downtown core weeding, watering and planting fresh annuals but never photographed. She may be partly responsible for Common Ground’s actions today.)

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Members issued a public statement today:
It is the beginning work of Toledo View's new committee called 'Common Ground' whose objective is to make seasonal 'eye candy' out of Toledo's public garden space for all to enjoy and be proud of.

Today, during our 'flash weeding mob', we weeded, inspected the soil, and installed a light layer of organic mulch to hold the garden's appearance until the installation of specially-chosen varieties of low-growing evergreen, perennial, and annual plants.  

Other public garden areas include planter boxes, the fish sculpture, the Food Bank garden, the Grade School gardens, the Gospodor Eagle, and the Old Jail House, all of which are green space diamonds-in-the-rough.  Volunteers are always welcome to share their love for gardening and for our town.

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​v:T Common Ground -- beautifying the green spaces in Toledo.

These vision:Toledo related projects are underway.  If you have the time and interest, please join us.

WHEN -- 10 am, Wednesday, May 18
WHERE -- POST OFFICE FLAG POLE 
WHAT -- pull weeds and augment the soil
 Contact -- Linda Bird-Sonne     greenbirdy@frontier.com

WHEN -- afternoon of Wednesday, May 18
WHERE -- CITY PARK ENTRANCE
WHAT -- delivery of new topsoil
 Contact -- Brian Dennis  brianscottdennis15@gmail.com

WHEN -- 10 am, Sunday, May 22
WHERE -- STEAMBOAT ALLEY
WHAT -- clean up the alley next to Hair It Is
  Contact -- Jamie Cummings jamie.cummings.toledo@gmail.com

WHEN -- 5 pm, Monday, May 23
WHERE -- CITY PARK ENTRANCE
WHAT -- begin planting new plants
 Contact -- Katie Pomeroy  kfjpomeroy@yahoo.com

WHEN -- 6:30 pm, Tuesday, May 24
WHERE -- MORGAN ARTS CENTRE
WHAT -- monthly vision:Toledo meeting
  Contact -- Di Morgan    di@morganartscentre.com

WHEN -- 9 am, Saturday, June 4
WHERE -- CITY BOAT LAUNCH
WHAT -- annual Community Clean Up day
 Contact -- Steve Dobosh    dobiedogg@yahoo.com 

***

Correction: Vicky Quackenbush was at the Toledo Library yesterday 10 a.m. - 2:30 p.m. to help with genealogy. The Other Toledo erroneously listed knitting, crocheting and needlework tips and techniques with Cindy Quick and Kathy Tyner 3-5 p.m. which will take place next Wednesday. TOT apologizes for any inconvenience caused by this misprint. 


Check out the book sale while you’re there, pick up a mystery for this month's Adult Page Turners May 26, and consider training to volunteer this summer as a fill-in. On Facebook here or call (360)864-4247.

***

Last night’s Toledo School District’s Facilities Advisory Committee met with Kelley Wilson of Construction Services Group to delve into details around the proposed renovations and upgrades under consideration at the high school, along with certain measures at the middle and elementary schools.

Superintendent Chris Rust reviewed the process to date, and the process heading to a bond measure.

CSG’s Wilson defined terms of the cost estimates broken down into specific items, such as upgrading to LED lighting and ADA-compliant improvements, explaining that identified line-item estimates do not equal actual budgets, but provide useful projections of costs based on current prices and trends. Wilson addressed also matching funds available for projects in excess of $213/sf with allowances for rising costs. Toledo’s current projected needs come in around $200/sf. Considering upgraded options - higher quality materials, more expensive but energy efficient equipment, etc. - could up the current overall project estimate total but in fact save taxpayers 65% by eligibility for matching state funding.

Those assembled broke into small groups of 2-5 to recommend priority projects on a scale, discuss merits of each, and compare notes aloud to the room. This brought on animated debate, into which Superintendent Rust dropped a pertinent question. “”At last month’s meeting, there were (more than double the number) of people present today. Where are they? Where are the students, the parents, faculty?” He acknowledged those who did attend, indicated that community support was crucial in getting a bond onto the ballot in February 2017 and passing.

The question of the real cost to taxpayers of the soon-to-be expiring bond versus a new bond was not definitively answered at this meeting, as estimates cannot readily be compared to hard data. Those estimates will solidify later in the process, and more realistic comparisons can be made.

Before dismissing the group, Rust summarized the priorities put forward, promised to bring the ThoughtExchange online data to the June 15 monthly FAC meeting, examine the combined priorities, and review millage rates and bond implications of the priorities. Finalizing the Study, survey and Master Plan will wrap up this phase of the project with the June meeting. Each phase is noted in 3-month increments through each year reaching to 2019.

Details and documents from each month’s FAC meeting online via the District’s website. Click on the Facilities Advisory Committee, Links page of the District’s website at http://toledoschools.us. Direct FAC page link here.

***

Thursday May 19 Toledo School District Board Of Directors meet 7 p.m. at the Middle School library. Visit website or call (360)864-6325. Toledo School District FB link here.  Beginning with the May 19, 2016 meeting, Toledo School District will be transitioning to an online board meeting solution. After May 19th, agendas and minutes can be accessed at http://www.boarddocs.com/wa/toledo/Board.nsf/Public.

***

Thursday Toledo Planning Commission meets third Thursday of each month at 7:00 pm. The meetings are conducted at the Toledo City Council chambers.

***

Pat says: Mrs Shipp's and Mrs Subject's third grade classes will be taking a walking field trip to the Toledo Library on Friday May 20. Roxie Phillips will read a story to them, they will tour the History Room and learn about the summer reading program. This will be a first time visit to the library for many and a trip that will hopefully lead to many more visits this summer.

***

Also Friday: Toledo’s celebrated Astrophysicist Ethan Siegel says: Head on over to Centralia College, Walton Science Center, Room 121 on May 20th at noon where I’ll be speaking on Fate of the Universe (and autographing books, too!). Free. Centralia College blog link on Siegel’s talk here.

***

From Native Soil Farm’s Facebook page: “Farmers don’t need to feed the world…” Check out the rest of this quote here and pick up Native Soil Farm’s goods at Winlock’s Saturday Market.

***

Email your news, reviews and events to: toledo.columnist@gmail.com ​


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05.18.2016 Wednesday Column

5/18/2016

0 Comments

 
May 18, 1980 - that fateful day in the shadow of Mt St Helens…
Picture
Discover Lewis County’s Facebook has several links to reports leading up to that day, including this one from the Mt St Helens Institute link (here). Where were you that day? What were your thoughts?

***

Recap: Last night Toledo’s ad hoc green space beautification coalition met at the MAC to channel enthusiasm into tangible results, making the first move today (Wednesday) in a Green Flash Mob Weed-Out 10 a.m. at the Post Office. Later in the day, soil amendment material will be delivered to City Park to ready one plot for an infusion of plants at the entrance May 23 in advance of Memorial Day’s Wall of Honor visitors. Several key locations were identified including the Steamboat Alley Clean-Up Day Sunday and Toledo’s city-wide Clean Up Day June 4. Plans were pencilled in, dates set, reports on each site to be announced at the next vision:Toledo Arts, Rec and Events meeting 6:30 p.m. May 24. For details contact Linda Bird-Sonne, greenbirdy@frontier.com.

***

Today: Lewis County Youth Soccer Association (LCYSA) offers sign-ups in person or online. Register online  at http://lcysa.net/ . Register in person on one of the dates below at Toledo Middle School for ages U5 - U19:  

Wed., May 18th   6:00 - 8:00 PM
Sat., June 4th     12:00 - 2:00 PM

Fri., May 20th      4:30 - 6:30 PM
Thurs., June 9th   4:30 - 6:30 PM

***

This Wednesday Cindy Quick and Kathy Tyner share tips and techniques on knitting, crocheting and needlework 3-5 p.m. at Toledo Library. Check out the book sale while you’re there, pick up a mystery for this month's Adult Page Turners May 26, and consider training to volunteer this summer as a fill-in. On Facebook here or call (360)864-4247.

***

Wednesday May 18 Toledo School District Facilities Advisory Committee meets 6 p.m. at the High School Library to cover online survey data.

Picture
Paper and pencil surveys will be available for those who prefer. Contact District office, (360)864-6325. Your input is needed. Online survey link here.

***

Wednesday Toledo Lioness Club invites everyone to join us third Wednesdays at the Community Library 6:30 p.m. for appetizers. Learn what we do for our community. On Facebook here or call Rachel at Phillipps Insurance Group, (360)864-8844.

***
Thursday Toledo Planning Commission meets third Thursday of each month at 7:00 pm. The meetings are conducted at the Toledo City Council chambers.

***

Thursday May 19 Toledo School District Board Of Directors meet 7 p.m. at the Middle School library. Visit website or call (360)864-6325. Toledo School District FB link here.  Beginning with the May 19, 2016 meeting, Toledo School District will be transitioning to an online board meeting solution. After May 19th, agendas and minutes can be accessed at http://www.boarddocs.com/wa/toledo/Board.nsf/Public
​
***

This just in - Kathy Hill says: Our last free feed went well.


Picture
Those who attended enjoyed visiting with neighbors and others living in this area. 

***

From Morgan Arts Centre: Enrollment forms are coming in faster than usual... Picasso Art Camps July 11-14, 18-21. Children's Theater Workshop July 25-29 Performance 7/29 @ 7 p.m. Details on Facebook here. 

Email your news, reviews and events to: toledo.columnist@gmail.com ​

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05.17.2016 Tuesday Column

5/17/2016

0 Comments

 
Posted late Friday, Toledo School District’s Facebook page:
A brand new life jacket station at Wallace Pond (South Lewis County Park), thanks to THS students of John Ball, Ron Gaul and Toledo Volunteer Firefighters Association and Penny Lancaster. Link here.

Seen Friday on KGW Portland OR News: an interview with Toledo’s celebrity astrophysicist Ethan Siegel, including details from his latest book AND advance notice. Says Siegel: Head on over to Centralia College on May 20th at noon, where I’ll be speaking on Fate of the Universe. (And autographing books, too!) From Starts with a BANG! Link here. KGW Interview link here. Also on Roku at KGW.com Portland OR News channel.
Picture
Monday City Council meeting, in brief:
Police calls - 12 of 21 calls since last City Council involve repeat responses to one individual with a history of mental health issues, and include efforts to collaborate with Cascade Mental Health in Centralia. For several weeks, little progress has been made in reducing incidents triggering calls about this person, nor in finding practical help from Cascade. Officers dutifully relay calls to Cascade, however, regardless of time of day, thus noting the pattern of disruption to neighbors.


Committee Reports - Police Chief Brockmueller cited on-going faulty communications with current 9-1-1 dispatch, with frequent requests from dispatchers for information repeated more than once by officers in situations where time is of utmost import, safety concerns for officers and the public in the balance. No one factor was named as the culprit, a combination of misunderstood dialogue, poor-quality or outdated audio technology, lack of training or experience for dispatchers, other management issues. When asked what solution would remedy current flawed communication, no one solution could be identified.
On a related topic, billing assigned by 9-1-1 dispatch operations commonly billed Toledo for Winlock service calls. (Toledo is under contract to provide police service to Winlock.)

New Business -
  1. Planning Commission Request - Changes to Land Development Code proposed by Toledo’s Planning Commission were discussed, focusing on alternatives to current expensive small-scale poultry operations such as reductions in required minimum usable property with a corresponding smaller cap on number of fowl. Also discussed were requirements for full RV hookups for each space of any future privately licensed RV Park within city limits. (No such entity currently operates in Toledo.) Such measures, City Clerk Michelle Whitten explained, would be important to establish in advance of any such license application, recognizing potential growth and boundary increases. Should the proposed changes be advanced, they will be read at 2 consecutive City Council meetings before being put to a vote.
  2. Cheese Days Request - Vision:Toledo Wine and Cheese Tasting Garden to be staged at the public boat launch.
Both requests passed.
Other Business - Alpine Chiropractic will close after May 21.
Public input: Last week’s clean up around South Lewis County Park (Wallace Pond) included supervised work release labor; could such help be utilized on improvements such as new/repaired sidewalks, road improvements/repairs? City Clerk Michelle Whitten explained the contractual obligations surrounding specific Public Works improvements and repairs to be done by the County, preventing bidding. Historically, the County billed at an overtime rate for these public works small projects, further reducing the actual amount of work completed. Estimated annual city budget is $60k for roads/sidewalks, searches for grant opportunities presenting the best option.
Also - Clean up day is June 4: a member of the public asked about removing dangerously leaning trees near their home; apparently the trees are on county property so no remedy could be granted by City of Toledo. Public Works spokesman Craig McCown volunteered to contact Lewis County and inform them of the hazard and request speedy removal of the trees.
Meeting was adjourned 6:54 p.m.

***

Also Monday: Brooke Acosta reports: First harvest of the season. Kale, lettuce, sorrel, chives, radishes used to make a salad with homemade olive oil and lemon dressing.

Toledo Elementary School Garden Initiative Director rolls up her sleeves and digs right in with students and volunteers Thursdays after school. Join Master Gardener Bob Taylor and others in lending an experienced hand. Contact Brooke at brookeannsell@hotmail.com

And: Did you catch Monday’s Musicals performed by Toledo Elementary students?

Picture
Photo from The Other Toledo

Say what you will about sports, those productions are all about teamwork and talent.

***

Today - Mike says: We can’t delay too much longer. Let’s have a Common Ground meeting of the minds for beautifying the green spaces in Toledo.

    WHEN -- 6:30 p.m. Tuesday, May 17
    WHERE -- Morgan Arts Centre, 190 Plomondon Rd.
    WHAT -- vision:Toledo related projects
            • Park Entry Garden
                • Planter Boxes around town
                    • Post Office Flag Pole
                        • Grade School Gardens
                            • Fish Sculpture
                                • Food Bank Garden
                                    • Gospodor Eagle
                                        • Old Jail House

Gary adds: We have a great team and I am personally grateful as well as excited for the potential we have in each one of us. I trust together we can accomplish these projects. Thank you to those who have already been gathering together resources. We can hopefully complete some of these projects before Cheese Days.

***

*A little birdie told me a flash mob will congregate at the Post Office 10 a.m. Wednesday with trowels and other weed weaponry to commit a spontaneous act of green beautification upon the current garden/border areas.
Toledo Greenies Flash Mob @ PO

***

This Wednesday Cindy Quick and Kathy Tyner share tips and techniques on knitting, crocheting and needlework 3-5 p.m.
Check out the book sale while you’re there, pick up a mystery for this month's Adult Page Turners May 26, and consider training to volunteer this summer as a fill-in. On Facebook here or call (360)864-4247.

Wednesday May 18 Toledo School District Facilities Advisory Committee meets 6 p.m. at the High School Library to cover online survey data. Paper and pencil surveys will be available for those who prefer. Contact District office, (360)864-6325. Your input is needed. Online survey link here.

Wednesday Toledo Lioness Club invites everyone to join us third Wednesdays at the Community Library 6:30 p.m. for appetizers. Learn what we do for our community. On Facebook here or call Rachel at Phillipps Insurance Group, (360)864-8844.

***
Thursday Toledo Planning Commission meets third Thursday of each month at 7:00 pm. The meetings are conducted at the Toledo City Council chambers.

Thursday May 19 Toledo School District Board Of Directors meet 7 p.m. at the Middle School library. Visit website or call (360)864-6325. Toledo School District FB link here.
Beginning with the May 19, 2016 meeting, Toledo School District will be transitioning to an online board meeting solution. After May 19th, agendas and minutes can be accessed at http://www.boarddocs.com/wa/toledo/Board.nsf/Public

***

Pat says: Mrs Shipp's and Mrs Subject's third grade classes will be taking a walking field trip to the Toledo Library on Friday May 20. Roxie Phillips will read a story to them, they will tour the History Room and learn about the summer reading program. This will be a first time visit to the library for many and a trip that will hopefully lead to many more visits this summer.

***

From Native Soil Farm Facebook, this link to neighboring Winlock’s Saturday Market where Toledo’s Billie Washington will have her local better-than-organic produce and goods available. Supporting your local growers, makers and providers is neighborly and good business.

***

Jamie says: Steamboat Alley mural prep next Sunday
May 22, 10 a.m - 5 p.m. with a pizza lunch provided. We're going to be cleaning and priming the wall for the mural. I'll also have supplies on hand to start building planters if we have a good turnout. We could use garden hoses, ladders, paint rollers w/ extension handles, paint brushes, extension cords, and drop cloths if you've got them. I'll also happily take donations of paint trays, paint roller covers, masking tape, and wall cleaner.
I look forward to seeing you there! Contact Jamie Cummings,     jamie.cummings.toledo@gmail.com

***

Tech Tuesday: From Toledo’s own A Grey Area Computer Repair and Service Facebook page (here) comes this link to USAToday regarding the not-so-imminent death of the PC, here.

And this: a cost-effective, low-profile USB-charger solution that doesn’t add One More Thing to your tangled cords and cables clutter, link here.

Email your news, reviews and events to: toledo.columnist@gmail.com ​

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05.16.2016 Monday Column

5/16/2016

1 Comment

 
The results are in!

Review: The Battle of the CowlArtz  2016
(T = Toledo        W = Winlock)

People's Choice Awards:
Best Drawing: "Half Face" by Rachael Annonen -- Winlock
Best Painting: "Ocean Going Bird" by Davinagrace Ramon -- Toledo
Best Clay Project: "Chip the Teacup" by Sophia Valasco -- W
Best Metal Project: "Big Fish" by Nick Brady -- T
Best Wood Project: "Rolling Pin" by Marcus Ouellette -- T

Judge's Award Winners
Best Drawing: Black & White -- Kendra Garrison -- W
Best Drawing: Mixed -- Katie Ross -- T

Best Painting: Acrylic -- Sophia Velasco -- W
Best Painting: Tempera -- Tabitha Mason -- W
Best Painting: Watercolor -- Sally Martin -- T
Best Painting: Pastel -- Brianna Beecroff -- T
Best Painting: Mixed -- Meeghan Peters -- T
Best Clay Project -- Giselle Molina -- W
Best Metal Project -- Nick Brady -- T
Best Wood Project -- Eric Smart -- T
• Special Thanks to the ARTrails Judges: Jeanne Hamilton, Susan and Richard Roth. 

• Special Thanks also to Winlock art teacher Ed Montgomery, Joyce Taylor, and Toledo art teacher Ron Gaul for the many extra hours given for the 10th Annual Battle of the CowlArtz.
Submitted by Mike Morgan, Gallery 505.  
Gallery 505 Facebook link to Battle of the CowlArtz 2016 online photos here. Next up on Gallery 505: The Hard Stuff - Ceramic, Glass and Metal, June 2-25, 2016. Website link here, Facebook link here.

***

Review: Paint Out last Friday, Camp Singing Wind - Carol Majewski says: We posted an album on our Facebook page, here.

I’m also attaching two of the photos. The first one is our most popular picture, showing Fancy, the little golden dog, with the canvas of Susanné Rose Maestas, of Winlock. She’s wearing the jeans she painted herself.
​
Photos courtesy of Camp Singing Wind

I’m also attaching a picture of Lola Dennis, who organized the event. She’s working with Billie Washington, of Toledo, who is painting for the first time.

***
Review: 2016 Kids Fishing Derby, hosted by the Toledo Lions Club, was a resounding success by all accounts.  

hotos from The Other Toledo

Proceeds support scholarships. Check out the pics posted on their Facebook page, link here. Next up: Cheese Days 2016, link here.  

***

Today: Students at Toledo Elementary School will be presenting 2 musicals this evening. At 6 p.m. Kindergarten through second graders will performs HATS! Following at 7 p.m third through fifth grades bring you Compose Yourself. Come support your neighborhood kids and enjoy.

Also today: Toledo High School FCCLA Banquet 6 p.m. for family and student members celebrates their successful year. Watch this column for the next FCCLA event, already in the works. Contact Rene’ Ketchum, rene@toledoschools.us for details.

Plus: Toledo City Council meets 6 p.m. today, first and third Mondays monthly. Dates may change if scheduled on or near a federal holiday. Visit www.toledowa.us or call (360)864-4564.

***

Tomorrow - Mike says: We can't delay too much longer. Let's have a Common Ground meeting of the minds for beautifying the green spaces in Toledo.

    WHEN -- 6:30 p.m. Tuesday, May 17
    WHERE -- Morgan Arts Centre, 190 Plomondon Rd.
    WHAT -- vision:Toledo related projects
            • Park Entry Garden
                • Planter Boxes around town
                    • Post Office Flag Pole
                        • Grade School Gardens
                            • Fish Sculpture
                                • Food Bank Garden
                                    • Gospodor Eagle
                                        • Old Jail House

Gary adds: We have a great team and I am personally grateful as well as excited for the potential we have in each one of us. I trust together we can accomplish these projects. Thank you to those who have already been gathering together resources. We can hopefully complete some of these projects before Cheese Days.

***

May 18 Toledo Senior Center Nutrition Lunch menu features, um, breakfast! Belgian Waffles with strawberries, scrambled eggs, patty sausage and OJ, May 20 clam chowder with green salad, Mandarin oranges, garlic herb roll and a brownie. Nutrition Lunches Wednesday and Friday are sponsored in part by Area Agency on Aging. Cost is $3 for those 60+ years of age. Reservations required. Contact Diana, diana.haug@lewsicountywa.gov or call (360)864-2112.

***

From Toledo First Baptist Church:
​We have several opportunities this summer for children in our community.
June 20-24           Vacation Bible School
              Time: 9:15 am-12:30
For children 4 years old through 6th grade; Youth; and Adults
              Cost:  Free
This year’s theme, Submerged, will help us to see what’s underneath as we explore the depths of the ocean through Bible study, missions, crafts, music, recreation, and snacks.

July 5-8                 High Power Soccer Camp
              Time:  9:00-Noon
For children 5 years old through 6th grade
              Cost: $25.00
Come develop your soccer skills whether a beginner or intermediate.

July 18-22            Kid’s Camp
For children who have completed 1st through 6th grade
              Cost:  $170.00  (Register early to reserve your spot)
Located on beautiful Clear Lake up in the Cascade Mountain.
              Scholarships are available upon request.    

Register online for any or all of these events at our website: toledofirstbaptist.com. Or contact our office at (360)864-2550.


***
​​
Preview: Tomorrow’s Column - Wait’ll you see this news story from last Friday featuring a local celebrity including a trailer on this Friday’s event. Plus: City Council summary, TES Performing Arts reviews, FCCLA Event insider report, Steamboat Alley Mural Prep Day, Tech Tuesdays, and more.

​
Email your news, reviews and events to: toledo.columnist@gmail.com ​

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1 Comment

05.13.2016 Friday Column

5/13/2016

0 Comments

 
Review: Brooke Acosta’s Thursday afternoon school garden project was a busy place yesterday, with Master Gardener Bob Taylor on hand to lend guidance and several other volunteers plus dozens of students.
Photos from The Other Toledo Archives

New raised beds held seedlings and climbing trellises, fresh dirt North of the existing garden turned and smoothed, ready for more planting. Early crops are already emerging - onions, strawberries, peas, corn - interspersed with marigolds to deter pests.

***
​
May 13 Paint Out at Camp Singing Wind. Join Portland-area  artists for this all-day event. Contact Brian for details at brianscottdennis15@gmail.com. On Facebook here.

May 13 Toledo Food Bank open 10 a.m. - 1 p.m. second and fourth Fridays monthly behind City Hall.

May 13 Cowlitz Prairie Grange Jam Night 7:00 p.m. second, fourth and fifth Fridays. Performers and supporters welcome. Donation at door. Contact tomboone46@yahoo.com or (360)262-3696.

Support: Al-Anon AFG meets 7 p.m. Fridays at the Presbyterian Church, 312 Augustus.

May 14 Mt St Helens Institute presents It’s a Blast: Anniversary of Eruption on the opening day of Johnston Observatory to mark 36 years since Mt St Helens erupted on May 18, 1980. Link here. On Facebook here.

May 14 Toledo Lions Club Annual Kids Fishing Derby. Details on website here, Facebook here. All proceeds support Lions Club Scholarships right here at home.

Toledo Senior Center hosts their Second Saturday Breakfast 7:30-10 a.m. with full fare breakfast including endless hotcakes, or biscuits and gravy for early risers (until they run out). Still $5, and they do the dishes.
Picture
Last chance this Saturday: Annual Blueberry Plant Sale at Riverview Hardware and Feed. All monies raised go to the High School Girls Basketball program. Along with several varieties of blueberries, they offer lingonberries, huckleberries, and strawberry plants.

Also: Tenth Annual Battle of the CowlArtz featuring  student art from Winlock and Toledo at Gallery 505 wraps up Saturday. Support your hometown talent and hometown gallery. Visit Gallery 505 online here. Also on Facebook here. Next show: The Hard Stuff - Ceramics, Glass and Metal June 2 - 25. 

And this from Cat’s Meow SNAP! Low cost feline spay and neuter program: Only a few spots left - Roundup Saturday May 14 between 4-6 p.m. (Please allow plenty of time for this process - we check in people in order of arrival, so if there are several people ahead of you, your wait could be an hour or more, but everyone with a reservation will be seen.) Log onto www.catsmeowsnap.org/spayneuter-services/ for complete details-instructions, prices, to make a reservation and to print forms.
​

***

May 16 Monday Students at Toledo Elementary School will be presenting 2 musicals. At 6 p.m. Kindergarten through second graders will performs HATS! Following at 7 p.m third through fifth grades bring you Compose Yourself. Come support your neighborhood kids and enjoy.

May 16 Toledo High School FCCLA Banquet 6 p.m. Contact Rene’ Ketchum, rene@toledoschools.us for details.

May 16 Toledo City Council meets 6 p.m. first and third Mondays monthly. Dates may change if scheduled on or near a federal holiday. Visit www.toledowa.us or call (360)864-4564.

May 18 Toledo Senior Center Nutrition Lunch menu features, um, breakfast! Belgian Waffles with strawberries, scrambled eggs, patty sausage and OJ, May 20 clam chowder with green salad, Mandarin oranges, garlic herb roll and a brownie. Nutrition Lunches Wednesday and Friday are sponsored in part by Area Agency on Aging. Cost is $3 for those 60+ years of age. Reservations required. Contact Diana, diana.haug@lewsicountywa.gov or call (360)864-2112.

Email your news, reviews and events to: toledo.columnist@gmail.com ​

    Sign up to have The Other Toledo delivered right to your inbox. 
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05.12.2016 Thursday Column

5/12/2016

0 Comments

 
Yesterday’s regularly scheduled Toledo Park Board meeting was cancelled. The Toledo Park Board meets 3:30 pm. second Wednesdays at City Council chambers. Contact cityoftoledo@toledotel.com or call (360)864-4564.
Photos from The Other Toledo archives

Yesterday Lions Club volunteers met at South Lewis County Park before the monthly meeting, armed with rakes and weed eaters and similar yard tools to clean up in advance of Saturday’s Fishing Derby. While no official headcount took place, an estimated 10 or more volunteers took part on a hot sunny afternoon. That’s Toledo Spirit. Fishing Derby details here. On Facebook here.

***
​
May 13 Paint Out at Camp Singing Wind. Join Portland-area  artists for this all-day event. Contact Brian for details at brianscottdennis15@gmail.com. On Facebook here.

May 13 Toledo Food Bank open 10 a.m. - 1 p.m. second and fourth Fridays monthly behind City Hall.

May 13 Cowlitz Prairie Grange Jam Night 7:00 p.m. second, fourth and fifth Fridays. Performers and supporters welcome. Donation at door. Contact tomboone46@yahoo.com or (360)262-3696.

May 14 the Mt St Helens Institute presents It’s a Blast: Anniversary of Eruption on the opening day of Johnston Observatory to mark 36 years since Mt St Helens erupted on May 18. Link here. On Facebook here.

May 14 Toledo Lions Club Annual Kids Fishihng Derby. Details on website here, Facebook here.

Toledo Senior Center hosts their Second Saturday Breakfast 7:30-10 a.m. with full fare breakfast including endless hotcakes, or biscuits and gravy for early risers (until they run out). Still $5, and they do the dishes.

This Saturday is also the fourth and final one to score locally grown blueberry plants at Riverview Hardware and Feed. Although plants are available for purchase directly, all monies raised these four weekends go to the High School Basketball program. Along with several varieties of blueberries, they offer lingonberries, huckleberries, and strawberry plants.

Did you see Discover Lewis County’s promotion of Toledo’s Gallery 505 and Battle of the CowlArtz? Check out DLC’s Facebook link here. Stop in and check out our locally-grown rising talent. Through May 14. Visit Gallery 505 online here. Also on Facebook here.

May 16 Monday Students at Toledo Elementary School will be presenting 2 musicals. 
Picture

From Toledo First Baptist Church:
​We have several opportunities this summer for children in our community.

June 20-24           Vacation Bible School
               Time: 9:15 am-12:30
For children 4 years old through 6th grade; Youth; and Adults
               Cost:  Free
This year’s theme, Submerged, will help us to see what’s underneath as we explore the depths of the ocean through Bible study, missions, crafts, music, recreation, and snacks.


July 5-8                 High Power Soccer Camp
               Time:  9:00-Noon
For children 5 years old through 6th grade
               Cost: $25.00
Come develop your soccer skills whether a beginner or intermediate.


July 18-22            Kid’s Camp
For children who have completed 1st through 6th grade
               Cost:  $170.00  (Register early to reserve your spot)
Located on beautiful Clear Lake up in the Cascade Mountain.
               Scholarships are available upon request.
              
Register online for any or all of these events at our website: toledofirstbaptist.com. Or contact our office at (360)864-2550.

Email your news, reviews and events to: toledo.columnist@gmail.com ​

    Sign up to have The Other Toledo delivered right to your inbox. 
    We hate spam too so we never sell your information.

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0 Comments

05.11.2016 Wednesday Column

5/11/2016

0 Comments

 
From Toledo School District Facebook page: Facilities Advisory Committee would like your input on renovations proposed to each structure. Your feedback via online* Thought Exchange through May 18 (FAC monthly meeting) will strongly influence upgrades, updates and critical structural needs. Link here. FAC meets third Tuesdays monthly at High School library.

And: The Academic Collaborative Time committee is still soliciting input from parents and the community regarding the addition of 10 early dismissal times next year for the purpose of improving instruction through teacher collaboration. To provide input including comments, please log in to https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/Y577WHX
(It’s only 5 questions.)
Toledo School District Facebook link here.

***

This Wednesday Vicky Quackenbush is available at the library 10 a.m. - 2:30 p.m to help with your genealogy research. Check out the books for sale while you’re there, pick up a mystery for this month's Adult Page Turners May 26, and consider training to volunteer this summer as a fill-in. On Facebook here or call (360)864-4247.

Toledo Park Board meets 3 p.m. second Wednesdays at City Hall. Public invited. Contact cityoftoledo@toledotel.com or call (360)864-4564.

From the Lions Club Facebook page: General meeting May 11 (today) 6:30 p.m. at the South Lewis County Park (Wallace Pond). Derby organizer Penny Lancaster says if you can come early, we will be prepping the site for Saturday’s Kid’s Fishing Derby beginning at 3 p.m. Bring rakes, gloves, clippers and weed eaters, and lots of helpers. Details of the Derby here.

For all ages, Discover Lewis County Facebook page links to Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife Season-Long Fishing Derby here. Says WDFW: We're two weeks into the Washington Department of Fish & Wildlife's 2016 Fishing Derby and there are still more prize fish to be caught! Wanna try your hand? Here's a list of lakes and dealers in Lewis County that are participating: Link here.

***
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Maples meet overhead on the drive in, sunlight glittering through the canopy. Potholes in the gravel drive filled in with river rock, mosaics so intricately crafted not one stone moves as I roll across them.
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Down a steep hill, around a bend a small dwelling appears, then the lodge. Two or three cars are tucked under trees across the parking lot from the steps. A stern-looking red hen eyes me suspiciously, muttering as I cautiously approach the double doors.

I let myself in, a delicious aroma from the kitchen drawing me into the hall and around the corner where Joanna Dennis appears, along with her PR diplomat, a small golden dog with a smooth coat who welcomes me without hesitation.
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Refugees from the corporate world of the SouthWest, Western Washington offered this parched family a lush haven to chart their next incarnation, Camp Singing Wind offering 180 acres of dreams. Sturdy original a-frame cabins offer seasonal visitors authentic tiny house experience, sunning cats on decks discouraging rodents. Updates to the shower house are underway, walking bridge repairs evident, conventional cabins rehabilitated to accommodate more and more guests. Pocket vegetable gardens here and there take advantage of sunny slopes which compliment the nursery, a converted fenced swimming pool safe from grazing herbivores. The dog scouts just ahead of Joanne and me, relaxed in a way she never was in the city.
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She plops down outside the craft house, a solid, L-shaped structure sporting natural sunlight from the corrugated fiberglass roofing, concrete floor and large fireplace in the corner,walled along the outside of the L. We admire the thoughtful amenities of the building. In another meadow beneath several firs, a giant bird nest 8-10 feet in diameter invites speculation. During our tour, several people look up from their labors to wave, or stop to chat as we unhurriedly make a circuit of the main grounds.
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Upon our return to the lodge, I note the classic dinner bell outside, high overhead, still in use. The Facebook page rooster crows for effect as he escorts one of the hens across the road. Inside, stringed instruments, drums and a parlor piano are parked near the stage, an enormous projector pull-down screen overhead. Thanks to Toledo’s high-speed connectivity, Google and YouTube provide on-the-spot tutoring on everything from meals and music to structural repairs and sustainable living.
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Three generations live here full-time since 2013. Not as caretakers, not as B&B hosts, but as family. Sharing work, exchanging experience with diverse groups such as last weekend’s Lewis County Permaculture Society Potluck and Work/Learn Party, recording artists, Yoga instructors, and muralist Paola De La Concha Zindel (slated for the Steamboat Alley mural). Each guest and group is interviewed carefully, as any prudent family would do upon opening their doors to guests. 
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May 13 Camp Singing Wind hosts a Paint Out, a one-day session of interpretive independent work on canvas or paper, oils, inks or charcoals as preferred. This event is collaborative rather than competitive. Portland-area artists attending will widen the talent pool, and locals are encouraged to join in. Contact Joanne Dennis for details: joannelynndennis@gmail.com On Facebook here.

***

*Speaking of art, scrolling down Gallery 505’s schedule page revealed a disturbing omission - no listing beyond July. Seems this small-town gem is a secret too well-kept, a lovely stop on the scenic route to Mt St Helens.

Already gone is the Plomondon Independent Film Fest, famous for PIFFY and People’s Choice Awards, entries from all over the Western hemisphere. This month’s Tenth Annual Battle of the CowlArtz showcasing student talent from Toledo And Winlock provides a first rate setting to support our rising talent. Will this year be the last?

It’s just one small venue. Right? Then another shutters the windows. A shop owner retires. Buildings stand vacant. Art programs in shrinking schools are replaced with (shudder) vocational programs.

What would you miss?

***

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05.10.2016 Tuesday Column

5/10/2016

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This Wednesday Vicky Quackenbush is available at the library 10 a.m. - 2:30 p.m to help with your genealogy research. Check out the books for sale while you’re there, pick up a mystery for this month's Adult Page Turners May 26, and consider training to volunteer this summer as a fill-in. On Facebook here or call (360)864-4247. (Click on Elise Brenner’s visitor post photo link to understand why a conventional library is still relevant in a digital age.) And don’t forget to drop off or pick up from the seed bank at the counter.

I just downloaded my copy of Astrophysicist Ethan Siegel’s Beyond the Galaxy: How Humanity Looked Beyond Our Milky Way and Discovered the Entire Universe from Amazon here. Our gracious April 21 guest speaker donated a hardcopy to the Toledo library, our advantage.

Wednesday Toledo Senior Center Nutrition Lunch menu features BBQ Chicken with coleslaw and baked beans, berry crisp and biscuit, Friday chili and cornbread with a green salad and peach slices in jello. Nutrition Lunches Wednesday and Friday are sponsored in part by Area Agency on Aging. Cost is $3 for those 60+ years of age. Reservations required. Contact Diana, diana.haug@lewsicountywa.gov or call (360)864-2112. ​
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Wednesday through Saturday this week Battle of the CowlArtz showcases student art from Winlock and Toledo at Gallery 505. Support your hometown talent and hometown gallery.* Visit Gallery 505 online here. Also on Facebook here.

Toledo Park Board meets 3 p.m. second Wednesdays at City Hall. Public invited. Contact cityoftoledo@toledotel.com or call (360)864-4564.

May 13 "Paint-Out" - Brian would like to invite anyone who is interested to a "paint-out" held at Camp Singing Wind on May 13th  where you can join a small group of artists from the Portland area. Contact Brian, brianscottdennis15@gmail.com

May 13 Toledo Food Bank open 10 a.m. - 1 p.m. second and fourth Fridays monthly behind City Hall.
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Toledo Senior Center Second Saturday Breakfast offering full-fare breakfast with endless pancakes, biscuits and gravy for early risers (while they last). Still $5 and they do the dishes.

***

Tech Tuesdays: Are you familiar with Opera as an alternative to Chrome and Firefox? It’s my go-to for speed and lightweight operation. Until now, lack of an ad blocker relegated Opera to second place. Download a clean up-to-date version through Ninite here, then set the ad blocker as directed from trusted source Lifehacker here. Claim is, by integrating the ad blocker into the browser itself, rather than as an extension, you can get even more of a speed boost.

Check out this link if you suspect Things Have Gone Wrong with your computer: How To Check If You’ve Been Hacked Within Seconds, here, courtesy of A Grey Area Computer Repair in downtown Toledo.

And this one, much closer to home: If You Use One Of These Popular Internet Services, You Need To Change Your Password Right Now. Steel yourself and click here. Thanks once more to A Grey Area, on Facebook here. Better share this one with everyone.
​
Trusted source MakeUseOf.com is my first choice in tech problem solving, but they’re much more. Here, they review a iPad Mini knock-off and offer a chance to win one.

Want new tech gear but don’t know which reviews are legit? For my money, The Gadgeteer fits the bill. From devices and accessories to household appliances - yes, even those handheld stick vacuums and more - tested for you to save headaches. Link here. But don’t blame me if you come away with serious Tech Envy.
​

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05.09.2016 Monday Column

5/9/2016

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From Toledo School District Facebook page: The Facilities Advisory Committee will be considering priorities for updating and upgrading facilities in the District during the months of May and June. Your input is very important. Sign up to be notified when the survey is ready at http://signup.thotex.com/toledo/PWx
While this is an online survey, paper and pencil versions will be made available.

View all meeting documents to date on the District website here, links page - Facilities Advisory Committee here. Patrons and visitors alike are invited to meetings 6 p.m. third Wednesdays monthly. Your input is important in implementing the 5-Year Plan. Toledo School District Facebook link here. Next Facilities Advisory Committee meeting third Wednesday May 18.

***

Review: Jaime Herrera-Beutler met with the mayors of Toledo, Morton, Pe Ell and Vader at Toledo’s new wastewater treatment facility to detail on-going efforts to accurately categorize these small communities as qualifying for Housing and Urban Development (HUD) low-income grants. Though the skewed statistics, with as much as 90% margin for error, have been recognized by HUD, no remedy has been offered. Herrera-Beutler outlined her proposals for solutions to HUD’s current inaction. (Check out The Chronicle’s front-page story Saturday here.)
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Photo from The Other Toledo archives

According to the City, crucial small Community Development Block Grants (CDBG) covered earlier Water Plan update and Wastewater Plan update which revealed the need for comprehensive improvements. Toledo has since utilized much-need grants from CDBG for major infrastructure updates:

  • 2005 - $500,000 for water improvements
  • 2013 - $1 million for sewer improvements
  • 2014 - $725,000 for water improvements

With the two most recent upgrades, water and sewer savings run just over $14.62 monthly on each, water currently about $31.93, sewer $73.30 (plus 9% utility tax), totaling around $115 monthly.  

Additionally, an improvement in one feature of the original design, an inverted cone-shaped structure, has contributed to greater efficiency and less likelihood of overtaxing the system during peak demand.  

***

Seen in Toledo: Friday Cowlitz View Nursery hosted a flash sale downtown at Ramsey Way and Cowlitz next to the Gospodor Eagle sculpture.

Farmers Markets are their primary venues, sales directly from the greenhouse by appointment only. Text or call (360)508-3140. Watch for another flash sale Thursdays or Fridays.  

One more Saturday - Blueberry Plants went two for $25 last Saturday, half-price for those lucky enough to score. These are fully mature plants, and ours bore fruit the first year, as promised, and 2 years later are flourishing.

***

May 11 Toledo Senior Center Nutrition Lunch menu features BBQ Chicken with coleslaw and baked beans, berry crisp and biscuit, May 13 chili and cornbread with a green salad and peach slices in jello. Nutrition Lunches Wednesday and Friday are sponsored in part by Area Agency on Aging. Cost is $3 for those 60+ years of age. Reservations required. Contact Diana, diana.haug@lewsicountywa.gov or call (360)864-2112. ​

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05.06.2016 Friday Column

5/6/2016

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Today: Wastewater Treatment Plant visit by Congresswoman Jaime Herrera-Beutler 10:30-11:30 a.m. Friday morning in Toledo will be followed by a meeting with officials from Vader and Pe Ell as well as Toledo. She is working to reverse HUD economic categorization which blocked these towns from qualifying for much-needed Community Development Block Grants (CDBG) in 2014. Jaime Herrera Beutler on Facebook here.
***
Wednesday The Other Toledo linked to a post naming this town as one of the 15 Coolest Towns in Washington (here).
Thursday TOT congratulated the Community Library on their $750 grant from Northwest Farm Credit Services to upgrade technology (link here).
Today Toledo is Cool and Connected, named one of 5 small communities awarded planning assistance to help people use broadband service for downtown revitalization and economic development. Toledo High School alum Larry Davidson, currently of Colorado with property and plans to retire here in Toledo, gets credit for alerting ToledoTel, vision:Toledo and the city to this grant opportunity and offering to write the letter of interest to the EPA. Details here.
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As Mike Morgan said, “it appears that Toledo is not only one of the ‘15 Coolest Small Towns in Washington’ but also in the U.S.A.”

***

Toledo Youth Cheerleading Sign Ups 5-7 p.m. today, Saturday 10 a.m. - 1 p.m. at Toledo High School.

Friday: Support: Al-Anon Courage To Change AFG, 7 p.m. Fridays at Toledo Presbyterian Church, 312 Augustus.

Don’t forget to pick up your DeGoede Flower Bowls Saturday 11 a.m. - 1 p.m. at the High School.

Toledo High School Basketball Annual Blueberry Plant Sale runs two more Saturdays at Riverview Hardware and Feed. Although plants are available for purchase directly, all monies raised these four weekends go to the High School Basketball program. Along with several varieties of blueberries, they offer lingonberries, huckleberries, and strawberry plants.

***

Review: Battle of the CowlArtz Student Art Show Toledo versus Winlock. And the winner is…
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Richard Roth, Susan Roth and Jeanne Hamilton, ARTrails members and celebrity artists. Independent judges for this year’s Battle of the CowlArtz spent more than an hour perusing and discussing merits of student’s art Thursday morning.

Gallery 505 Opening Night was more of a steady stream than a crowd, doors opening earlier than previous shows at 4 p.m. Stop in and cast your own vote for People’s Choice. Through Sunday this week, May 11-14 next week. Visit Gallery 505 online here. Also on Facebook here.

***​
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Tomato and basil plants of various types and sizes from Native Soil Farm’s Thursday Sale.

Review: Stopped by Native Soil Farm Thursday for Billie Washington’s flash one-day sale of several varieties of tomato, pepper and herb plants. Several others came and went while I dithered over the hundreds of choices. In the end, I opted for some sturdy-looking “orphan” tomatoes of uncertain heritage and some gorgeous basil. Then I shared a few plants.
On Facebook, link here.

***

*Tip: Regarding yesterday’s paragraph about online shopping via Amazon to support Cat’s Meow SNAP! Of Lewis County, key “Cats Meow of Lewis County” into the “SMILE” text box.

Email your news, reviews and events to: toledo.columnist@gmail.com ​​​​
​

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05.05.2016 Thursday Column

5/5/2016

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Today: Celebremos Cinco de Mayo - Cinco de Mayo commemorates the Mexican army’s 1862 victory over France at the Battle of Puebla during the Franco-Mexican War (1861-1867). Oh, and please choose a Designated Driver if you celebrate.

Native Soil Farm One Day Sale - 5 varieties tomato plants offered plus several types of herbs. Runs 2-7 p.m. Come early for best selection. 237 Collins Road. On Facebook, link here.
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Gallery 505 Opening Night 4-7 p.m. The 10th Annual Battle of the CowlArtz Student Art Competition between Toledo and Winlock will feature judged entries across several categories. People’s Choice Awards, however, invite your vote. Stop in and check out our locally-grown rising talent. Open May 5-8 and May 11-14. Visit Gallery 505 online here. Also on Facebook here.

Toledo Youth Cheerleading Signups 5-7 p.m. today and Friday, Saturday 10 a.m. - 1 p.m. at Toledo High School.

***
Congrats! Toledo Community Library awarded $750 Grant from Northwest Farm Credit Services to upgrade technology. Link to The Chronicle article on Friends of the Toledo Library Facebook page here. ​
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Have some, leave some. Need some, take some.

From the Library: Genealogy help next Wednesday 10 a.m - 2:30 p.m. with Vicky Quackenbush, knitting, crocheting and needlework the following Wednesday 3-5 p.m. with Cindy Quick and Kathy Tyner. And while you’re there, scope out the current book sale. New stock regularly, bargain prices, supports the library - it’s a win-win!
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Also: volunteer applications being accepted now for summer shifts. One-on-one training in about an hour. Grads, library experience improves your resume whether you’re job-hunting or college-bound. And how many libraries offer Keurig-style coffee and hot beverages? Hmm? Call (360)864-4247.

May 26 Harriet Whisler’s Adult Page Turners meet 1:30 p.m. at Toledo Community Library to discuss this month’s selection - your choice of any mystery. Drop ins welcome. Contact Harriett, (360)864.2484.

RSVP now for May 14 Roundup. Cat’s Meow SNAP! Of Lewis County lists another May 21 to drop off feral kitties or housepets for low-cost spay/neuter services. Log onto www.catsmeowsnap.org/spayneuter-services/ for complete details - instructions, prices, to reserve a spot and print forms.
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 And while you’re shopping, just type "SMILE." in front of Amazon.com and shop exactly the same as always. Designate "The Cat's Meow Spay, Neuter & Adoption Project as your charity of choice....and Amazon will donate based on the amount you spend. Details on Facebook page here.

***

Posted Friday: Last week Toledo Middle School Robotics students competed against Tenino Middle School Robotics Wednesday, April 27th. Tenino demonstrated great engineering designs, perseverance, teamwork, and agility… More on Toledo School District Facebook page, here.

***

*Correction: Last Friday I overnighted in Packwood where the Mountain Fest was underway, not Morton as stated. Atta Girl goes to The Otter for catching that one.

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05.04.2016 Wednesday Column

5/4/2016

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Reminder: Toledo School District will dismiss students at 12:30 p.m. today. Drive carefully. 

​Thursday: Gallery 505 opens with the annual Battle of the CowlArtz, Toledo versus Winlock Student Art Show. Runs May 5-14. Details on website here. Also on Facebook here.

Billie Washington of Native Soil Farm says: One day sale of 5 different tomato plants on this Thursday from 2-7 p.m. Come early for best selection. Various herbs also available. 237 Collins Road. Billie posts diverse links regularly on Facebook. Link here.
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Photo courtesy Native Soil Farm

Thursday: Toledo Youth Cheerleading Signups 5-7 p.m. today and Friday, Saturday 10 a.m. - 1 p.m. at Toledo High School.

Don’t forget to pick up your DeGoede Flower Bowls Saturday 11 a.m. - 1 p.m. at the High School.  

Toledo High School Basketball Annual Blueberry Plant Sale runs two more Saturdays at Riverview Hardware and Feed. Although plants are available for purchase directly, all monies raised these four weekends go to the High School Basketball program. Along with several varieties of blueberries, they offer lingonberries, huckleberries, and strawberry plants.

Sunday, May 8 is also* a "Fee-Free Day" at our State Parks. On this day, all are welcome where a Discover Pass in not required to visit. For additional rules, visit the State of Washington State Parks website here.
*You DO know Sunday is Mother’s Day, right?

***

Toledo is named as one of the 15 Coolest Small Towns in Washington. Check out Discover Lewis County here.*

From Toledo Fire Department website: Lewis County now has a new alert system (including mobile app) replacing CodeRed. Visit website here to update and register. Links to printable burn permit, allergy forecast and more here, plus graphics on concussion, protecting kids around medicine, and how to prevent whiplash.

Have you seen Toledo PD’s video on distracted driving? Ouch! And that doesn’t count the pricey ticket. Link here. Their slick new website is posting updates steadily. Leave ‘em some positive feedback.

***

Yesterday I contacted a member of the long-time Toledo Garden Club to update my records, only to discover dwindling attendance compelled them to merge with the Winolequa Garden Club of Winlock. And while I’m sad to see this cozy group disappear from our village, joining the neighboring town organization strengthens the bonds we already share - combined sports, the upcoming Battle of the CowlArtz at Gallery 505 and more.

Last week’s East Lewis County Journal featured a photo and review of Morton’s Chamber of Commerce After Hours Event held April 18 at Chimi’s Family Restaurant in Toledo, including all three LewCo Commissioners and other dignitaries. CoC Manager Cathy Kane confided that Morton’s promotion of Toledo along the scenic route to Mt St Helens was good for both towns.
*Note 15 Coolest Towns above.

So last Friday on my way to visit friends in Puget Sound, I overnighted in Morton at the newly, “greenly” updated Cowlitz Landing Hotel (recommended by a clerk at the local grocery), enjoyed a salmon dinner, took in The Scoundrel of Dagger Gulch, a theatrical production with vaudeville acts following as part of Morton’s Mountain Fest, slept soundly and awoke to in-room Keurig coffee, finishing with the complimentary breakfast bar before setting off to Enumclaw via State Route 123 and Mt Rainier National Park. ​
And supported one of our neighboring small towns in turn. 

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05.03.2016 Tuesday Column

5/3/2016

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Summary: Toledo City Council convened 6 p.m. Monday night at City Hall. All members were present. Minutes from 04.18.2016 were approved as read.

Department Reports:
Police Chief John Brockmueller said 23 calls were placed, 12 regarding one person known to officers from prior calls. A meeting is scheduled Thursday with Cascade Mental Health to address options to reduce complaints involving this resident.
City Clerk: Jill Davis distributed information on short course on planning, proposed for city employees and needing approval by June 1, commencing June 8.
Planning Commission member Mike Thompson clarified details of the proposed exception to the current ½ acre minimum/25 adult poultry ordinance from the 04.21.2016 Planning Commission meeting, recommending up to 12 fowl on minimum 8,000sf lot (minus dwellings and outbuildings). Planning Commission Minutes from 04.21.2016 handed out to council members.
Park board - report only submitted. NO member in attendance.
No public comment on the agenda items was forthcoming.

New Business:
Resolution 236A - Surplus Personal Property - passed.
Cheese Days Street Closure request by Harry’s Place - passed.
Unlisted Item: Request for Kemp Olsen Park overnight camping extension beyond current 7-day maximum for two crop workers’ camp trailers (3-month term) - passed.
Unlisted Item: Application to establish and operate a print and online publication by John (Jake) Morgan, Lewis County Tribune. To be submitted to Planning Commission for review.

No Unfinished Business addressed.
No Other Business addressed.
No Public Input forthcoming.
Meeting adjourned 6:23 p.m.
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Seen at Riverview Hardware and Feed Monday, 05.02.2016

Tech Tuesdays:

From A Grey Area Computer Repair comes this plea: I did that stupid windows 10 free upgrade...can I roll it back to Windows 7 or something? Answer: Yep. Find out how here.  

And this: those Virtual Private Networks (VPN’s) I recommended as a security measure for using public WiFi and shared networks? Don’t look now - Supreme Court Quietly Approves Rule to Give FBI 'Sprawling' Hacking Powers. Link here.

Gamers take note: SEVEN MILLION Minecraft Accounts Hacked, according to MakeUseOf. Link here.

And lastly: It this an app or a utility? Let Billshark negotiate lower rates on your utilities and subscriptions. From trusted source Netted, link here.

***

From Morgan Arts Centre: Enrollment forms are coming in faster than usual... Picasso Art Camps July 11-14, 18-21. Children's Theater Workshop July 25-29 Performance 7/29 @ 7 p.m. Details on Facebook here.

From Gallery 505: Next up - Battle of the Cowl-Artz: Toledo and Winlock high school students, May 5-14. On Facebook here.

2016 Annual Boat Launch passes available now. Stop by City Hall during regular business hours or Napa/Toledo Hardware to get your pass. 

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05.02.2016 Monday Column

5/2/2016

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Steamboat Ally Project update - Jamie Cummings says: Here's where we are...

We've got the okay from Big Nick Delin (the building owner) to do the mural on the full length of the old hardware store wall, and Paola is working on a design based on Toledo's history as a steamboat port. If you have stories from the time that the steamboats were coming through this area, please contact her at (360)219-8007 or paoladelaconcha@gmail.com.
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Revised Steamboat Alley Design Proposal - courtesy Jamie Cimmings

In the meantime, we're having our first work day on May 22nd from 10 to 5 with pizza for lunch. We'll be primarily cleaning and priming the wall, but there will also be supplies on hand to start building crates and planters for the finished Alley. Please let me know if you can loan us ladders, garden hoses, scrub brushes, paint scrapers, paint rollers (with extensions), paint brushes, or drop cloths, or if you would like to donate paint roller covers, wall cleaner, or exterior latex paint. Likewise, if you know of opportunities for discounted paint, please let me know.
​
Since the March State of the Alley, we have received:

  • $500 cash donation in memory of Viola Hayes, a Toledo High School graduate and owner-operator of Perniconi Gardens in Toledo for over 20 years.

  • $100 cash donation from Don Brenner as well as awesome photos of the steamboats that came to Toledo.
  • 150-200 feet of 3" diameter rope, a giant metal hook, reel wood, and a pier post from Donna and Mark Stith.

  • A mess of pallets from Steve and Cheryl Padula at Bateaux Cellars.

  • Research and copy for the interpretive signage from Joh Jones.

  • A comprehensive plant plan from Gary Whiteside.

  • One pound of cheese each from Black Sheep Creamery and Rosecrest Farm for our Cheese Days fundraiser (more on that below).

We will be raising further funds for the project via the sale of engraved pavers for the final walkway. The cost is $100 per 12 inch square paver that can be engraved as a memorial, a donor acknowledgement, or a brief message to future Steamboat Alley users.

We will also be fundraising at Cheese Days by selling $5 snacks at the Wine & Cheese tents on Saturday evening. Buyer's choice of homemade macaroni & cheese or a sampler plate of cheese, crackers, sausage, fruit and veggies. Engraved walkway pavers will also be available for pre-order at our table.

I've attached a picture of the most recent Steamboat Alley design that includes the extension beyond the brick building that we're hoping the city approves. It will also be viewable on the temporary seating in the Alley, which will be out sometime next week. Be sure to stop by!

Thanks to everyone who has supported this project. We've continued to benefit from a great community that sees a bright future for our pocket park, and I'm incredibly grateful for every contribution.

Contact Jamie Cummings, (360)864-2602 or jamie.cummings.toledo@gmail.com.

Thanks again for your generosity,
Jamie Cummings

Paola De la Concha Zindel adds: Thanks for this awesome work Jamie! I Will be catching up this week to gather the stories integrated to the mural and propose a design very soon!

***

From Toledo School District: “Teaching school is a calling...May 2-6 is Teacher Appreciation Week.” More here. Volunteers appreciated too: “Thank you to the Higgenbottoms for their hard work on behalf of all children.” Fence nearly finished at Elementary School.

Today: May 2 Toledo City Council meets 6 p.m. first and third Mondays monthly. Dates may change if scheduled on or near a federal holiday. Visit www.toledowa.us or call (360)864-4564.

May 4 Toledo Senior Center Nutrition Lunch menu features country fried steak and mashed potatoes, peas and carrots, peaches and wheat bread, May 6 hamburger steak with mushroom gravy and baked potato, sliced carrots, fruit chunks and bread pudding. Nutrition Lunches Wednesday and Friday are sponsored in part by Area Agency on Aging. Cost is $3 for those 60+ years of age. Reservations required. Contact Diana, diana.haug@lewsicountywa.gov or call (360)864-2112.

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