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12.30.2016 Friday Column and Weekend Outlook

12/30/2016

0 Comments

 
In today’s column:

  • New Year's First Day Hike @ Lewis & Clark State Park
  • Janet Pruett Celebration of Life
  • Holiday Hours & Closures
  • Toledo Senior Center Nutrition Lunch Menu
  • Toledo Library Adult Page Turners January Read


Washington joins America’s State Parks in featuring First Day Hikes, and January 1, 2017 happens to be a Washington State Park Fee-Free Day.

Picture
Image via Creative Commons

Show up at Lewis and Clark State Park main gate at 10 a.m. for a moderate 1.5 mile (or shorter) trek with along the Trail of the Deer Path. Dress for the weather including footwear and raingear. Dogs welcome on leash.


Other WA State Park First Day Hikes, also fee-free, at 32 locations statewide.

***

Native Soil Farm links to a story about community, sharing and connectedness, a positive spin on a similar tale I heard long ago.

***

How and where and when to recycle Christmas trees, lights, paper, styrofoam, etcetera in the Lewis County Tribune. FB link here.

***

Donate your “gently used” outdoor Christmas decorations to Toledo’s newly-established Christmas Committee. Contact Gary Whiteside, 360.355.7614 with goods or to get involved. It’s never too early to start planning next year’s bigger and better displays.

***

Today: Janet Pruett’s Celebration of Life takes place 2 p.m. at Fir Lawn Funeral Chapel. Potluck to follow at Toledo Senior Center.

***

Path of Hope Al-Anon AFG meets 7 p.m. Fridays at Toledo Presbyterian Church, 312 Augustus.

***

Last day today: Enter to win our 40” Visio HDTV by bringing your food bank items to ToledoTel before the end of the day. 5 cans or $5 = 1 raffle ticket. All proceeds benefit Toledo Food Bank.  

***

Saturday: Toledo Lions Club fireworks sale at Market Fresh.

Saturday Holiday Hours: Toledo Community Library open until 1:30 pm Saturday.

Also Saturday: Post Office will be open for package pick-up 8-10 a.m. Saturday. Knock on wooden door next to inside mail drop slot. No front desk services or phone answering.

***

Sunday: First Day Hike @ Lewis and Clark State Park 10 a.m. Free.

***

Monday Holiday closures: Toledo City Hall, Senior Center, Post Office and Timberland Bank.

And The Other Toledo. Happy Next Year.

***

Tuesday: City Council meeting 6 p.m. at Town Hall, due to Monday holiday closure. Public invited. Contact Toledo City Hall for special accommodations or cancellations at (360)864-4564.

***

Reservations required: Wednesday Toledo Senior Center Nutrition Lunch serves up ham & scalloped potatoes with peas and carrots, pineapple chunks, butterscotch pudding and a dinner roll, Friday sloppy joes with (more) peas and carrots, cottage cheese with apricots and lemon cake. Nutrition Lunches Wednesday and Friday are sponsored in part by Area Agency on Aging. Suggested donation $3 for those 60+ years of age. Contact Diana, diana.haug@lewsicountywa.gov or call (360)864-2112.

***

Heads up:
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Toledo Community Library is on Facebook.

***

Today: ToledoTel’s Bingo Daily Number link here.

***

Photos from TOT archives unless otherwise noted.
Everyday Heroes: Envisioned as a local September 11 observation recognizing lesser-known acts of kindness and heroism. Send your nominations to toledo.columnist@gmail.com.

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.

Subscribe to Newsletter
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12.29.2016 Thursday Column

12/29/2016

1 Comment

 
In today’s column:

  • Lions Club Fireworks Welcome New Year
  • Gallery 505 Artists Co-op: January Opening Night
  • Red Tailed Hawk Tale
  • Toledo Senior Center: Interview with Bunny Miller
  • Janet Pruett, Esther Borte Celebrations of Life

...And a Happy New Year!

Picture
Image courtesy Weebly

Once more Toledo Lions Club brings the BOOM to your New Year countdown, while keeping it local with scholarships, annual kids fishing derby, turkey bingo and other holiday food distribution projects.


Support your local Lions Club Fireworks sales at Toledo Market Fresh and kick off 2017 with a BANG!

***

Gallery 505 Artists Co-op announces Opening Night 1-8 p.m. January 5. This month’s Theme: Light.
Showing Tuesday - Saturday through January 28.

December Children’s Art Contest submissions will be on display. Winners in four age groups will be announced January 5.

Gallery 505 is also on Facebook.

***

Yesterday The Otter* came across an injured red-tailed hawk along the back field fence, which he rescued from the excited “girls” (one Boxer, one hound blend) before their curiosity let them get too close.

Picture
Image courtesy Weebly - not the actual hawk

He contacted For Heaven’s Sake Animal Rescue & Rehab (FHSARR) and gathered up the raptor for transport to Rochester, where a volunteer stayed late to take in the bird.

For Heaven’s Sake is frequently in the news for rescuing birds and other wildlife up and down the I-5 corridor, most for re-release back into the wild.

The Otter tells of an early failed rescue, an owl that did not survive its injuries, and how places like FHSARR were still many years in the future.

So while you’re getting to know that Smartphone you got for Christmas, add FHSARR, 360.273.0550 to your Contacts.

You might just save a life.

*For those uninitiated, Autocorrect failed to recognize my typo when I keyed in “Significant Otter” rather than “Significant Other” a while back, and now there are plush toys, small wood carvings and other otter-themed memorabilia all over the house. And my Significant Other has become my Significant Otter, thanks to Autocorrect.

***

Last day: Lewis County Fire District 2 is accepting applications for a part-time Firefighter/EMT. Application info online at http://www.toledofire2.com/index.html

Applications close 12/29/2016.

Diane Wallace / Human Resource Manager
Lewis County Fire District 2
150 North Second Street – Toledo
360-864-2366 #1
tolfire2@toledotel.com

***

Also today: Adult Page Turners meet 1:30 p.m. at Toledo Community Library to discuss “Astoria” and announce next month’s reading selection. Page Turners meet last last Thursdays monthly. Newcomers welcomed.

Toledo Community Library announced at December’s vision:Toledo Arts, Rec and Events:
  • We made $320 on our (December 3) Bake and Book Sale.
  • We are in the process of getting our 501(c)3 (non-profit status) number.
  • And we will soon start setting up our Speaker Schedule for '17.
  • We have added 4 new volunteers to our numbers!

A shout out to Charlie Pruett, the heart and soul of the biggest little library in Lewis County!

Reminder: early closing Saturday, New Year’s Eve,
1:30 p.m.

Toledo Community Library is on Facebook.

***

Yesterday after Wednesday’s Nutrition Lunch at Toledo Senior Center, Bunny Miller related her story about how she wanted to do something to “get me out of the house.”

Three years ago, enjoying her recent well-deserved retirement, she joined friends “especially for the lunches...and music, and bingo, and the after-lunch socializing.” She can be seen lending a hand wherever needed, finding new friends and old among the folks who come through the door.

“When I heard they (BOCC) were closing it (Toledo Senior Center), I said, No way!”

One reader commented on Wednesday’s post: Re: the Senior Center issue: would you pass on this idea on to the appropriate source(s). What about the Senior Center reaching out to larger ones in metropolitan areas for some help, and asking the Commissioners to fund match any monies which come in. Redmond, Kirkland, Bellevue, NorthShore have large centers of seniors, all of whom understand what such a community means to them personally.
Hopefully the commissioners understand they, too, are heading for seniordom.

Is there anybody OUT there? ~Pink Floyd, The Wall

***

Announcement: Janet Pruett’s Celebration of Life takes place 2 p.m. Friday December 30 at Fir Lawn Funeral Chapel, potluck to follow at Toledo Senior Center.

Announcement: Esther Borte’s Celebration of Life will be 11 a.m January 6 (Friday) at St Francis Catholic Church with fellowship following at the Parish Hall. (Senior Center Director Diana Haug says:) If you plan on attending, please let me know so I can get an accurate count for our (Nutrition Lunch) here at the Senior Center.

***

Also:
  • Who: All Zumba fans
  • What: New Zumba session
  • When: begins January 12, 6-7 p.m.
  • Where: at Toledo Senior Center
  • Cost: $30/over 50 years old, $40/others

***

Nutrition Lunch menu for upcoming week published Friday and Monday on The Other Toledo. Community-wide events such as classes, breakfasts, special dinners and entertainment published Tuesdays. Other events such as community meetings posted immediately.

For details or to make reservations, contact diana.haug@lewiscountywa.gov or call (360)864-2112.

*** 

Mark your calendars:
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***

Today: ToledoTel’s Bingo Daily Number link here.

Reminder: 5 cans/$5 = 1 raffle ticket for 40” Visio HDTV. All proceeds benefit Toledo Food Bank.

***

Photos from TOT archives unless otherwise noted.
Everyday Heroes: Envisioned as a local September 11 observation recognizing lesser-known acts of kindness and heroism. Send your nominations to toledo.columnist@gmail.com.

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.

Subscribe to Newsletter
1 Comment

12.28.2016 Wednesday Column

12/28/2016

2 Comments

 
In today’s column:

  • Gallery 505 Holiday Tree Sculpture Winner
  • January 2 Holiday Closures
  • Toledo Senior Center: Interview with Carol Schulte

In Case You Missed It: Friday’s Raffle Prize went to...
Picture
...yours truly!


Gallery 505 Artists Co-op thanks everyone who participated in the raffle, and all those who support local crafters.

Student Art Contest winners will be announced January 2, 2017.

Opening Night for January 2017 and Theme will be announced shortly, including changes to hours.

Also on Facebook.


*Correction: The fabulous welded Christmas Tree on display through December 2016 was crafted and donated by Recycled Ranch Relics. The Other Toledo incorrectly identified the contributor as Rusty Relics.

***

The official end of the holiday season is signaled by the first Christmas tree on the freeway. MoneyTalksNews has 8 “green” options for that no-longer-fresh evergreen.

***

While you’re at it, vision:Toledo’s newly-minted Christmas Committee may take some of those outdoor decorations off your hands and give them new life next year. Contact Gary Whiteside, 360.355.7614

***

Page Turners meet 1:30 Thursday at Toledo Community Library to discuss “Astoria” and announce next month’s reading selection.

On Facebook.

***

December 31 Holiday Hours: Toledo Community Library open until 1:30 pm Saturday

December 31 Holiday hours: Post Office will be open for package pick-up 8-10 a.m. Saturday. Knock on wooden door next to inside mail drop slot. No front desk services or phone answering.

January 2 Holiday closures: Toledo City Hall, Senior Center, Post Office and Timberland Bank.

***
Picture
Stopping in Friday afternoon at Toledo Senior Center, several people were engaged in terse conversation at one table while a handful in the kitchen were finishing up their work. Despite the Christmas holiday approaching, I felt an uneasy quiet in a place where easy laughter and a warm welcome prevail.

With Lewis County Board of Commissioners determined to cut funding to area Senior Centers after 2017 as a means of meeting their budget, outrage and protests have followed. November’s standing-room-only face off in Toledo did nothing to ease fears.

Last Friday, Carol Schulte turned to me and spoke deliberately.

“A few years ago, I was quite ill and depressed. Everyday my son would ask me, “Did you go down to the Senior Center?” and everyday I would tell him no. I didn’t think there was anything there for me.

“After several weeks, I finally went.”

Carol looked me in the eye and declared, “These people saved my life.”

We chatted a bit and Carol agreed to posting this brief exchange in the hope more people might be encouraged to tell their neighbors - and the Board of County Commissioners - just what these vital community centers mean to patrons.

Sometimes a whisper can be heard above the clamor.       

***

Lewis County Fire District 2 is accepting applications for a part-time Firefighter/EMT. Application information is available online at http://www.toledofire2.com/index.html

Applications close 12/29/2016.

Diane Wallace / Human Resource Manager
Lewis County Fire District 2
150 North Second Street – Toledo
360-864-2366 #1
tolfire2@toledotel.com

***

Today: ToledoTel’s Bingo Daily Number link here.

Reminder: 5 cans/$5 = 1 raffle ticket for 40” Visio HDTV. All proceeds benefit Toledo Food Bank.

***

Photos from TOT archives unless otherwise noted.
Everyday Heroes: Envisioned as a local September 11 observation recognizing lesser-known acts of kindness and heroism. Send your nominations to toledo.columnist@gmail.com.

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.

Subscribe to Newsletter
2 Comments

12.23.2016 Friday Column and Weekend Outlook

12/23/2016

0 Comments

 
In today’s column:

  • Rusty Relics Tree Raffle Drawing Today
  • Holiday Closures
  • Senior Nutrition Lunch Menu
  • Next Week: Toledo Lions Fireworks Sale
Picture
Drawing today at Gallery 505 Artists Co-op for this perennial holiday sculpture.

Bring your classic, handcrafted, themed or favorite ornament to hang on this extraordinary Christmas tree in exchange for a raffle ticket to win it. One entry per person, please.

While you’re there, drop off your kid’s painting or drawing with the theme “Imagination” for the children’s art contest, deadline Saturday. All art will be displayed, and winners in 4 age groups will win art kits.

Finally, you can finish up your gift shopping while avoiding traffic and supporting your local craftspeople.

A win-win all around.

***

Path of Hope Al-Anon AFG meets 7 p.m. Fridays at Toledo Presbyterian Church, 312 Augustus.

***

Holiday Closures:

December 24 - Toledo Community Library - Closed.
December 24 - All Timberland branches - Closed.
December 24 restricted service: Post Office will be open for package pick-up 7-10 a.m. Saturday. Knock on wooden door next to inside mail drop slot. No front desk services or phone answering.

***

December 26 Holiday closures: Toledo City Hall, Senior Center, Post Office, and all branches of Timberland Bank.

And The Other Toledo.

***

December 26 Holiday openings: everything retail, it seems. Especially online. Shop securely.

***

December 27 Toledo Lions will help you welcome 2017 with fireworks sales at Toledo Market Fresh. Let’s make Toledo visible to the orbiting space station at midnight!

***

Donate your “gently used” outdoor Christmas decorations to Toledo’s newly-established Christmas Committee. Contact Gary Whiteside, 360.355.7614 with goods or to get involved.

***

Reservations required: Wednesday Toledo Senior Center Nutrition Lunch serves up sweet & sour meatballs over rice, oriental vegetables and pineapple chunks with a brownie, Friday kielbasa & sauerkraut with red potatoes, sunshine carrots and tropical fruit plus spice cake. Nutrition Lunches Wednesday and Friday are sponsored in part by Area Agency on Aging. Suggested donation $3 for those 60+ years of age. Contact Diana, diana.haug@lewsicountywa.gov or call (360)864-2112.

***

Lewis County Fire District 2 is accepting applications for a part-time Firefighter/EMT. Application information is available online at http://www.toledofire2.com/index.html

Applications close 12/29/2016.

Diane Wallace / Human Resource Manager
Lewis County Fire District 2
150 North Second Street – Toledo
360-864-2366 #1
tolfire2@toledotel.com

***

Today: ToledoTel’s Bingo Daily Number link here.

Reminder: 5 cans/$5 = 1 raffle ticket for 40” Visio HDTV. All proceeds benefit Toledo Food Bank.

***

Photos from TOT archives unless otherwise noted.
Everyday Heroes: Envisioned as a local September 11 observation recognizing lesser-known acts of kindness and heroism. Send your nominations to toledo.columnist@gmail.com.

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.

Subscribe to Newsletter
0 Comments

12.22.2016 Thursday Column

12/22/2016

0 Comments

 
In today’s column:

  • Toledo School District Press Release
  • Holiday Closures
  • On Health

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Press Release

Toledo Elementary School is a 2016 School of Distinction

TOLEDO Dec. 19, 2016— Toledo Elementary School has been recognized as a 2016 Washington State School of Distinction by the Center for Educational Effectiveness (CEE), in partnership with the Association of Educational Service Districts (AESD), The Association of Washington School Principals (AWSP), Washington Association of School Administrators (WASA), Washington State School Directors’ Association (WSSDA) and the Washington State Association of Supervision and Curriculum Development (WSASCD). Toledo Elementary joins 93 other Washington schools in receiving this award for sustained improvement in student achievement in Math and English Language Arts over the past five consecutive years. Schools in the top 5% in the state in achievement growth have been recognized over the past 10 years for exemplary achievement.
Principal Angela Bacon presented the award to the staff and students of Toledo Elementary at a recent assembly. “This award comes as the result of the hard work of teachers and students over the past five years and includes teachers who were here and have left and those who have joined the team along the way.”, Bacon said. “Some of the students who participated in this award are in 8th grade now and some are still here with us. Now its your turn to add to their achievements.”
While the award isn’t a substitute for the annual accountability measures mandated by the federal government, it is an opportunity for students and staff to be recognized for their achievements and growth. . John Welch, Superintendent of the Puget Sound ESD in Renton and leading this work as President of the AESD leaders group stated, “As we continue to move forward with new standards and state assessments we continue to see our schools rise to the challenge. This award process highlights our schools’ achievements and the need to continue to support the dedicated and talented professionals who serve our students and their families. Congratulations to the students, professional educators and leaders for their exceptional dedication and effort. Well done!”


About the Toledo School District
Located in Southwest Washington, the Toledo School District serves nearly 750 K-12 students. To learn more, visit www.toledoschools.us.

***
Holiday Closures:

December 24 - Toledo Community Library - Closed.

December 24 - All Timberland branches - Closed.

December 24 restricted service: Post Office will be open for package pick-up 7-10 a.m. Saturday. Knock on wooden door next to inside mail drop slot. No front desk services or phone answering.

***

December 26 Holiday closures: Toledo City Hall, Senior Center, Post Office, and all branches of Timberland Bank.

***

December 26 Holiday openings: everything retail, it seems. Especially online. Shop securely.

***

*Toledo Schools Winter Break December 21, 2016 - January 3, 2017.

***

*Correction: Gallery 505 Artists Co-op is open 1 - 5 p.m. through December 24. The Other Toledo incorrectly listed the gallery as open through December 23 in Wednesday’s Column.

***

On Health:

Sometimes the answer is right in front of us. Native Soil Farm via Facebook links to an article from Shumei-Na which included this simple observation: First, about rice. After I came to the US, sometimes I had headaches and had to stay in bed; although I was eating the Natural Agricultural vegetables daily. However, since starting eating Natural Agricultural rice, I noticed that my headaches were less than before and milder. From this experience, I understood how important the crops we eat everyday were.

***

Lewis County Fire District 2 is accepting applications for a part-time Firefighter/EMT. Application information is available online  at http://www.toledofire2.com/index.html

Applications close 12/29/2016.

Diane Wallace / Human Resource Manager
Lewis County Fire District 2
150 North Second Street – Toledo
360-864-2366 #1
tolfire2@toledotel.com

***

Today: ToledoTel’s Bingo Daily Number link here.

Reminder: 5 cans/$5 = 1 raffle ticket for 40” Visio HDTV. All proceeds benefit Toledo Food Bank.

***

Photos from TOT archives unless otherwise noted.
Everyday Heroes: Envisioned as a local September 11 observation recognizing lesser-known acts of kindness and heroism. Send your nominations to toledo.columnist@gmail.com.

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.

Subscribe to Newsletter
0 Comments

12.21.2016 Wednesday Column

12/21/2016

0 Comments

 
In today’s column:

  • Pick N' Roll Fundraiser A Success
  • Vision:Toledo Arts, Rec & Events Highlights
  • Gifts: Keep It Local
  • Lewis County Fire Department Job Posting

Picture
L-R: Joe Martin, John Britten, Lukas Johnson. Photo courtesy D Schaplow

Pick N' Roll was a huge success. Outstanding talent and desserts.
Photos courtesy D Schaplow

Says Don Schaplow:
"The Boys' and Girls' Basketball programs in Toledo extend a huge thanks to all who supported this event. Outstanding music, food and good times. Plan on making it a part of your Christmas tradition next year."

***
Picture
Image courtesy Common Ground Garden Community Facebook

Christmas Time in Toledo has been warmly welcomed, and now has a committee planning to make next year bigger and better. Plans include creating new outdoor decorations and figures similar to the recycled yard ornament transformed into a beautiful topiary reindeer near the lighted display at the boat launch. Contact Gary Whiteside, 360.355.7614 if you have items to contribute.


Vision:Toledo Arts, Rec & Events also recounted Cool & Connected First 100 Days phase, noting holidays slowed most progress. Five areas highlighted included:
  • Updating and disseminating web info
  • Create a tagline and marketing info
  • Clear brush from riverfront
  • Develop virtual tour for visitors
  • Plan & construct a town square
Draft document has gone out to the workshop participants for review, covering a wide range of goals.

Common Ground Garden Community spokesperson Gary Whiteside thanked everyone involved for working to restore old planters to beauty, and creating pocket parks and corner garden spots. Plans to expand are underway already, bulbs wanted to add early color and a healing garden suggested for a key location. Volunteer Joh Jones pushed for a hoop house greenhouse, free from USDA (with specific restrictions) to start annuals from seed for distribution all over Toledo. Castle Rock’s AIB president Nancy Chenault is available for a presentation on request.

Via email, City Clerk Michelle Whitten reported Fresh from the Farm Guide 2017 invites local growers to apply online or pick up an application at the WSU Lewis County Extension Office in the Lewis County Courthouse. Contact sgray@wsu.edu or call (360)740-1212. The Guide is a partnership between WSU Lewis County Extension, Lewis County Farm Bureau and Lewis County. Mayor Dobosh spoke positively of a recent farm-to-table dinner he attended, saying agritourism is becoming popular.

Camp Singing Wind reported music and dance classes with Jesse, and outdoor courses from kids bush scouting and Hugelkulture with Kaleb will complement SEAD - Sustainability, Ecology, Artistic and Diplomacy. Brian Dennis thanked the community for its support of CSW, and invited everyone to help get the word out.

Joh Jones “did some research” on Toledo’s Senior Center, slated for budget cuts that would effectively shut the doors on all Lewis County Senior Centers.* Jones distilled her findings into three potential solutions to cover the projected funding shortfall for each community center:
  • Create dedicated funding source. Multiplying the number of taxable properties by a flat $10 fee annually (less than a dollar a month) would cover the current county contribution ($376,000) with $222,820 to spare for a maintenance fund - without impacting the 1% taxing limit. Further, this would save jobs, from Senior Center employees to administrators.
  • Re-examine cost share of each Senior Center for equitable distribution of costs.
  • Consider energy- and other cost-saving upgrades such as solar panels or new technology to reduce operating costs.

*Lewis County Commissioners announced they would meet Thursday to move ahead on transitioning the Senior Centers as originally planned. Details in news brief @ chronline.com.

Next vision:Toledo Arts, Rec & Events meeting will be 6:30 p.m. January 24, 2017 at the MAC.

***

Gallery 505 Artists Co-op December theme “Holiday Gifts Under $100.” Tuesday - Saturday 1-5 p.m. through December 23. For handcrafted, heirloom quality gifts sure to be treasured for generations.

25 Area Artists and Craftspersons

100's of Handmade Items for Sale
Buy Local.  Buy American.

Picture

Art Gallery 505 is in downtown Toledo

Open 1 - 5 p.m.
Tuesday - Saturday until Christmas Eve.

***


Steamboat Plaza says: Give the gift of our best coffee, or a day of pampering with a hair cut and color, a new set of nails, or a pedicure.

Don't know what to get someone for Christmas? Need some great last minute gifts? We got you covered.

On Facebook.

***

Correction to Monday’s Special Presentation by Citizens For Great Toledo Schools at the City Council meeting: The bond asks for $14.2 million rather than $21 million. We estimate state contributions of $8.2 million to fund approximately $22.4 million in projects.

The Other Toledo incorrectly stated Citizens For Great Toledo Schools was promoting a $21 million school district bond.

TOT thanks Supt. Chris Rust for setting the record straight, and apologizes for posting inaccurate information.

***

Lewis County Fire District 2 is accepting applications for a part-time Firefighter/EMT.

Applications close 12/29/2016.

For application packet please contact:  
Diane Wallace / Human Resource Manager
Lewis County Fire District 2
150 North Second Street – Toledo
360-864-2366 #1
tolfire2@toledotel.com

***

Today: ToledoTel’s Bingo Daily Number link here.

Reminder: 5 cans/$5 = 1 raffle ticket for 40” Visio HDTV. All proceeds benefit Toledo Food Bank.

***

Photos from TOT archives unless otherwise noted.
Everyday Heroes: Envisioned as a local September 11 observation recognizing lesser-known acts of kindness and heroism. Send your nominations to toledo.columnist@gmail.com.

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.

Subscribe to Newsletter
0 Comments

12.20.2016 Tuesday Column and Tech Report

12/20/2016

0 Comments

 
In today’s column:
  • Toledo City Council Recap
  • Holiday Closures & Deadlines
  • Today: Medic One, v:T Arts, Rec & Events
Picture
Deadline: December 23 at Gallery 505 Artists Co-op. Bring your classic, handcrafted, themed or favorite ornament to hang on this extraordinary Christmas tree in exchange for a raffle ticket to win it. One entry per person, please.

***

Monday Night’s City Council meeting included second readings of the 2017 Budget & amendments to 2016’s budget, a special presentation by Citizens For Great Toledo Schools, new water tower progress report plus request for funds to complete testing, and tree issue complaints from a local homeowner.

The Citizens For Great Toledo Schools, an ad hoc group promoting a $21 million school district bond to upgrade the 40-year-old high school facility, sought the endorsement of Toledo City Council in their goals.

Police Chief Brockmueller reported moving forward with shifting responsibility to the sheriff’s department for evidence storage, as they have the resources to better manage materials.

City Clerk Michelle Whitten said Monday’s Civil Service review was complete. She attended Winlock City Council meeting December 12 to follow up on contract police services with Toledo.  

Resolution 241A - Support Toledo School District Bond - passed.

Larry Brown Construction - Progress Estimate #3 - $68,189.31. New water tower reservoir full now, with no leaks. Passed.

Gray & Osbourne Recommendation - Water Tower Project - Up to $20,000 requested to install two quick valves on Tuesday following Christmas, getting new system online by Thursday. Passed.

Resident Ken Meyers addressed the City Council about dangerously tall, potentially unhealthy trees within the city’s purview posing a risk to his property and the right of way. Distributing photocopied pics of the 100-foot trees, he stated Lewis County PUD denied any responsibility. Two area contractors submitted conservative estimates for bringing down the giants. Discussion ensued over obligation for removal with no conclusive results. Tabled.

Ordinance #741 - 2017 Budget (second reading) - passed.
Ordinance #742 - 2016 Budget Amendments (second reading) - passed.

Council Members adjourned for 5 minutes to consider a personnel issue, reconvening briefly before adjourning at 6:54 p.m.

***

STUDENT ART CONTEST

Gallery 505 Artist Co-Op is having an art contest for children aged 3-17. The theme of the current contest is “IMAGINATION”.  All contestants will have their art displayed at Gallery 505 and four winners will be chosen to receive a prize, an art kit with various art mediums. The age groups are 3-5, 5-8, 9-12, and 12-17.

All drawings or paintings can be submitted on a regular 8 ½ by 11-inch sheet of paper. You must include the child’s age, address, and phone number and parent’s email. All entries are due by December 24, 2016 and the winners will be announced January 2, 2017.

Submit all entries to Gallery 505 Artist Co-op
at 205 Cowlitz Street; Toledo, WA
Tuesday-Saturday 1-5 pm. 360.864.2789

***

Tuesday: vision:TOLEDO   ARTS, RECREATION, & EVENTS 
  6:30 at Morgan Arts Centre

AGENDA for Tuesday, December 20, 2016

Old Business
    a. Library -- Pat Caldwell
    b. Christmas Time in Toledo -- Mayor Dobosh
    c. Common Ground Garden Community -- Gary Whiteside
    e.

New Business
    a. Cool & Connected: The First 100 Days -- Sheila Richardson, et al
    b. Christmas Holiday committee --
    c.

Other Business
    a. Fresh from the Farm -- via email:
    b. Toledo Senior Center -- Joh Jones
    c. Toledo School Bond -- Supt. Chris Rust
    d.

***

December 24 - Toledo Community Library - Closed.

December 24 restricted service: Post Office will be open for package pick-up 7-10 a.m. Saturday. Knock on wooden door next to inside mail drop slot. No front desk services or phone answering.

All Timberland branches closed Saturday, December 24.

***

December 26 Holiday closures: Toledo City Hall, Senior Center, Post Office, and all branches of Timberland Bank.

***

December 26 Holiday openings: everything retail, it seems. Especially online. Shop securely.

***

*Toledo Schools Winter Break December 21, 2016 - January 3, 2017.

***

Tech Tuesday:

Greg says: If anyone is still using Yahoo, this is a good article.
What Yahoo users can do to protect their data after a billion-account breach. ~csmonitor.com
A Grey Area Computer Repair is on Facebook here.

***

Yesterday a friend told me about her sister, recently widowed, who returned to her car at a large retailer to find a window broken, and all the important personal papers of her dearly departed spouse missing. By the time she contacted police to report the breach, several accounts had been accessed already.

Hearing this tale spurred me to post the annual link to How I Got Rid Of 4 Filing Cabinets (& All My Bookcases) early, instead of waiting until January’s customary organizing drive.

You may recall my own experience with two incidents of ID theft involved paper. Over a decade later, it’s still the weak link.

***

Tis the Season: Lifehacker spells it out in Top 10 Things to Do On Your Family's Computer When You Go Home for the Holidays.

***

Check out CultOfMac Best MAC accessories of 2016 and sign up for their Deals newsletter.

***

MoneyTalksNews offers 10 Free Things That Used To Cost Money in case you start pining for the old days.

***

Lewis County Fire District 2 is accepting applications for a part-time firefighter/emt.

Applications close 12/29/2016.

For application packet please contact:  
Diane Wallace / Human Resource Manager
Lewis County Fire District 2
150 North Second Street – Toledo
360-864-2366 #1
tolfire2@toledotel.com

***

Today: ToledoTel’s Bingo Daily Number link here.

Reminder: 5 cans/$5 = 1 raffle ticket for 40” Visio HDTV. All proceeds benefit Toledo Food Bank.

***

Photos from TOT archives unless otherwise noted.
Everyday Heroes: Envisioned as a local September 11 observation recognizing lesser-known acts of kindness and heroism. Send your nominations to toledo.columnist@gmail.com.

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.

Subscribe to Newsletter
0 Comments

12.19.2016 Monday Column

12/19/2016

0 Comments

 
In today’s column:

  • Toledo Elementary Earns School of Distinction
  • Jingle Bell Run Fun Pic
  • 2016 USPS Holiday Shipping Deadlines
  • Today: Food Bank, City Council, TSD Board

Picture
Photo courtesy TSD Facebook

***

PSA: Toledo schools closures via Facebook, radio and TV. Download the PDF link on District FB page listing all media outlets including flash alerts.

Says Supt. Rust: We got 11 more subscribers when I told students in the class that Facebook is the first place I post when we have a snow day!*

Toledo Schools Winter Break December 21, 2016 - January 3, 2017.

*I know this to be true because when I awoke one morning last week at 4:36 a.m. and checked the link above, the change for that day had been posted 6 minutes earlier!

***

Last Friday’s Special Assembly at Toledo Elementary School recognized the combined efforts of students, faculty, staff, administrators and supporters.

Five consecutive years of marked improvements in Language Arts and Math put Toledo Elementary in the the top 5% of schools in the state, earning them the coveted School of Distinction award - the premier honor in Washington.
Picture
The School District says it best: You won't find a finer group of children or adults anywhere. Photos & more on Facebook.

***

Also on Facebook: Jingle Bell Run is a hit again this year.
Picture
Image courtesy Toledo School District on Facebook

Thank you TES PTO for always putting kids first.

***

There’s still time:

US Post Office 2016 Holiday Shipping Cut Off Dates

  • First-Class Mail Service - December 20
  • Priority Mail Service - December 21
  • Priority Mail Express Service  - December 23

***

Today: Food Bank open 10 a.m. - 1 p.m. today instead of Friday. Located behind City Hall. Visit Toledo City Hall or call (360)864-4564.

***

Also Monday: City Council meeting 6 p.m. at Town Hall. Public invited. Contact Toledo City Hall for special accommodations or cancellations at (360)864-4564.

***

Plus: Toledo School District’s regular monthly Board of Directors meeting has be rescheduled for 6 p.m. Monday, December 19, 2016 at Toledo Middle School Library.* The public is invited to attend.

*Monthly agendas are available online at the District website, as are minutes of past BOD meetings.

***

Tuesday: December’s Vision:Toledo Arts, Rec and Events meets 6:30 p.m. at Morgan Arts Centre, 190 Plomondon Road.

Mike says: vision:Toledo Arts, Recreation, and Events meetings are usually held on the 4th Tuesday of each month.  Due to the Holidays, we have moved December’s meeting to the Tuesday before Christmas, not the 2nd Tuesday as previously stated.

Agenda in Tuesday’s Column. Visit www.morganartscentre.com or call (360)864-4ART for info.

***

Tuesday: Lewis County Interlocal (Medic One) Board Meeting 7 p.m. third Tuesdays monthly at Toledo Fire Department Main Station. Open to the public.

http://www.toledofire2.com/calendar.html

***

Reservations required: Wednesday Toledo Senior Center Nutrition Lunch serves up Lemon Pepper Pollack with rice pilaf, NW vegetables, ambrosia salad and garlic toast, Friday chili and cornbread, green salad and jello with peaches. Nutrition Lunches Wednesday and Friday are sponsored in part by Area Agency on Aging. Suggested donation $3 for those 60+ years of age. Contact Diana, diana.haug@lewsicountywa.gov or call (360)864-2112.

*More on LewCo BOCC & Senior Center funding: Seems Christine Fosset, publisher of The Chronicle, agrees Lewis County Budget cannot blame these community gathering spots for their budget woes, nor will axing them cure the deficit. Stay tuned...

***

Today: ToledoTel’s Bingo Daily Number link here.

Reminder: 5 cans/$5 = 1 raffle ticket for 40” Visio HDTV. All proceeds benefit Toledo Food Bank.

***

More news online at Lewis County Tribune.

***

Photos from TOT archives unless otherwise noted.
Everyday Heroes: Envisioned as a local September 11 observation recognizing lesser-known acts of kindness and heroism. Send your nominations to toledo.columnist@gmail.com.

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.

Subscribe to Newsletter
0 Comments

12.16.2016 Friday Column and Weekend Outlook

12/16/2016

0 Comments

 
In today’s column:

  • BOOM! What was that?
  • Toledo Elementary School of Distinction Award Assembly
  • Children's Art Contest Deadline Nearing
  • Weekend Outlook and Beyond
  • Toledo Senior Center Nutrition Lunch Menu

Picture
By the way, what were those big Booms last night just after 9 p.m.? Some as far away as Aberdeen noticed. GT Tonya in Toledo asked via Lewis County Sirens on Facebook:
"Can anyone please tell us what big booms are near Toledo it has broken windows from the booms"

***

PSA: Toledo schools closures via Facebook, radio and TV. Download the PDF link on District FB page listing all media outlets including flash alerts.

***

Today: Toledo Elementary School special assembly 2 p.m. in the gym to recognize their Washington State School of Distinction Award, the culmination of 5 years improvements in Language Arts and Math, one of the highest awards in the State.

***

More news online at Lewis County Tribune.

***

No City Planning Commission meeting today.

Toledo Planning Commission meets 7 p.m. third Thursdays monthly in Council Chambers. Contact Toledo City Hall for schedule changes, agenda or special accommodations at (360)864-4564.

***
STUDENT ART CONTEST

Gallery 505 Artist Co-Op is having an art contest for children aged 3-17. The theme of the current contest is “IMAGINATION”.  All contestants will have their art displayed at Gallery 505 and four winners will be chosen to receive a prize, an art kit with various art mediums. The age groups are 3-5, 5-8, 9-12, and 12-17.
All drawings or paintings can be submitted on a regular 8 ½ by 11-inch sheet of paper. You must include the child’s age, address, and phone number and parent’s email.

All entries are due by December 24, 2016 and the winners will be announced January 2, 2017.

Submit all entries to Gallery 505 Artist Co-op
at 205 Cowlitz Street; Toledo, WA
Tuesday-Saturday 1-5 pm. 360.864.2789

***

Path of Hope Al-Anon AFG meets 7 p.m. Fridays at Toledo Presbyterian Church, 312 Augustus.

***

Saturday: Toledo Senior Center Community Christmas Dinner and Entertainment. Doors open 4 p.m., dinner served 5 p.m. Dinner $10.63/under 60yo ($3 suggested donation/60+). Music by The Classics $7. Reservations required. Call (360)864-2112.

***

Saturday: Pick N’ Roll Music Show 7 p.m. at Toledo High School. Homemade desserts served. Benefits Toledo Indians basketball teams. See poster in Tuesday’s Column.

***

Reminder: Food Bank open 10 a.m. - 1 p.m. Monday December 19, instead of Friday. Located behind City Hall. Visit Toledo City Hall or call (360)864-4564.

***

Also Monday: City Council meeting 6 p.m. at Town Hall. Public invited. Contact Toledo City Hall for special accommodations or cancellations at (360)864-4564.

***

Plus: Toledo School District’s regular monthly Board of Directors meeting has be rescheduled for 6 p.m. Monday, December 19, 2016 at Toledo Middle School Library.* The public is invited to attend.

*Monthly agendas are available online at the District website, as are minutes of past BOD meetings.

***

Tuesday: December’s Vision:Toledo Arts, Rec and Events meets 6:30 p.m. at Morgan Arts Centre, 190 Plomondon Road.

Mike says: vision:Toledo Arts, Recreation, and Events meetings are usually held on the 4th Tuesday of each month.  Due to the Holidays, we have moved December’s meeting to the Tuesday before Christmas, not the 2nd Tuesday as previously stated.

Visit www.morganartscentre.com or call (360)864-4ART for info.

***

Tuesday: Lewis County Interlocal (Medic One) Board Meeting 7 p.m. third Tuesdays monthly at Toledo Fire Department Main Station. Open to the public.

http://www.toledofire2.com/calendar.html

***

Reservations required: Wednesday Toledo Senior Center Nutrition Lunch serves up Lemon Pepper Pollack with rice pilaf, NW vegetables, ambrosia salad and garlic toast, Friday chili and cornbread, green salad and jello with peaches. Nutrition Lunches Wednesday and Friday are sponsored in part by Area Agency on Aging. Suggested donation $3 for those 60+ years of age. Contact Diana, diana.haug@lewsicountywa.gov or call (360)864-2112.

***

Gallery 505 Artists Co-op December theme “Holiday Gifts Under $100.” Tuesday - Saturday 1-5 p.m. through December 24. For handcrafted, heirloom quality gifts sure to be treasured for generations.
Picture
25 Area Artists and Craftspersons
100's of Handmade Items for Sale
Buy Local.  Buy American.
Art Gallery 505 is in downtown Toledo Open 1 - 5 p.m.
Tuesday - Saturday until Christmas Eve.

Also on Facebook.
Images courtesy Gallery 505 Artists Co-op

***

Today: ToledoTel’s Bingo Daily Number link here.

Reminder: 5 cans/$5 = 1 raffle ticket for 40” Visio HDTV. All proceeds benefit Toledo Food Bank.

***

Photos from TOT archives unless otherwise noted.
Everyday Heroes: Envisioned as a local September 11 observation recognizing lesser-known acts of kindness and heroism. Send your nominations to toledo.columnist@gmail.com.

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.

Subscribe to Newsletter
0 Comments

12.15.2016 Thursday Column

12/15/2016

0 Comments

 
In today’s column:

  • 2016 Jingle Bell 5K Walk/Run & Fun Run
  • Community Christmas Dinner & Entertainment @ Toledo Senior Center
  • Pick N’ Roll Music Show @ Toledo High School
  • On Health
Picture
***

PSA: Toledo schools closures via Facebook, radio and TV. Download the PDF link on District FB page listing all media outlets including flash alerts.

***

More news online at Lewis County Tribune.

***

Thursday: No Planning Commission meeting for this month.

Toledo Planning Commission meets 7 p.m. third Thursdays monthly in City Chambers. Contact Toledo City Hall for special accommodations or cancellations at (360)864-4564.

***

Atta Girl goes to Principal Angela Bacon! This Friday, Toledo Elementary will hold a special assembly 2 p.m. to recognize their School of Distinction Award.

From Toledo School District’s website: Proud to announce that Toledo Elementary School is a 2016 Washington State School of Distinction based on five years of growth in Language Arts and Math. This is one of the highest awards that a Washington school can receive. Congratulations to the students, faculty, staff and administration of TES for this achievement.

***

Saturday:
Picture
See you there!

***

Mark your calendar:  
  • Who: Toledo Senior Center
  • What: Special Holiday Dinner
  • When: December 17 - doors open 4 p.m., dinner 5 p.m.
  • Where: 150 Coal Street
  • Why: Food, entertainment with The Classics*, door prizes
  • Cost: $10.63/under 60yo ($3 suggested donation/60yo+)
  • Plus: $7.00* entertainment

Come & enjoy an evening of good food. Help end the year 2016 with with your friends at the Senior Center. Door prizes galore. Reservations required.
Dinner funded in part by Area Agency on Aging.

***

Also Saturday: Toledo High School Pick N’ Roll Music Show featuring Toledo’s finest local musicians performing 7-9 p.m. at Toledo High School Commons.

A semi-formal evening of local music. Homemade desserts served by players from 2016-2017 Toledo Indian basketball teams. Tickets $10 pre-sale, $15 at the door. An evening benefit for Toledo Boys and Girls Basketball.

***

On Health:

As December 25 draws near, views on the true meaning of Christmas abound. Should you find yourself torn between two seemingly polar “Reason for the Season” camps, consider the common bond, outlined in this HuffPo piece.* It begins:

“The story of Santa Claus, his elves and the giving of gifts has graced our lives for hundreds of years. It is more than just the story of a jolly old man on a quest to give gifts to every child in the world. It's a lesson about generosity and kindness.”

Not so far apart, after all.

*This article appeared in my research for locally-relevant health-related links, and you might be surprised to uncover a gift inside that may be passed down for generations.

Thanks to Billie Washington’s Native Soil Farm and link to Baker Creek Heirloom Seed Company, @rareseeds.  

One more intersection of local and healthy in our own backyard.

***

Up your nutritional and medicinal game: Honey, especially locally sourced, trades a variety of benefits for empty sugar calories. Lewis County Beekeepers list the details on their website. They also award scholarships, with two Toledo students, Joevanie Montalvo and Mason Gaul, winning the first scholarships in 2014.  

Yet another example of homegrown healthier choices. Check out their Chocolate Walnut Fudge with Honey recipe on Facebook.

***

Anyone seen the movie Rapa Nui? Though historic details are somewhat massaged, this documentary-like drama speaks to the loss of ecological diversity and subsequent far-reaching effects. Native Soil Farm links to The Seeds Of Shiva to offer a chance to impact your own family as well as others for generations to come.

***

Today: ToledoTel’s Bingo Daily Number link here.

Reminder: 5 cans/$5 = 1 raffle ticket for 40” Visio HDTV. All proceeds benefit Toledo Food Bank.

***

Photos from TOT archives unless otherwise noted.
Everyday Heroes: Envisioned as a local September 11 observation recognizing lesser-known acts of kindness and heroism. Send your nominations to toledo.columnist@gmail.com.

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.

Subscribe to Newsletter
0 Comments

12.14.2016 Wednesday Column

12/14/2016

0 Comments

 
In today’s column:

  • Cool & Connected Draft Doc, First 100 Days underway
  • Lewis County Text To 911 announcement
  • Toledo Park Board meeting cancellation

Picture
***


PSA: Toledo schools closures via Facebook, radio and TV. Download the PDF link on District FB page listing all media outlets including flash alerts.

Low temps and changing weather ahead.

***

City of Toledo issued the Cool & Connected draft document to all workshop attendees for review on Monday. Action Priorities bear a “First 100 Days” push for completion as well.

Vision:Toledo Arts, Rec and Events meets 6:30 p.m. Tuesday, December 20, 2016 at the Morgan Arts Centre to cover this and other committee progress reports.

All welcome to listen, contribute and get involved. Visit www.morganartscentre.com or call (360)864-4ART.

***

Yesterday an incredible thing happened - 911 hung up when the caller, who felt threatened by a stranger knocking on the door (second time), fell silent while hiding to avoid giving away their position.

April 2 this year, I found myself unable to call 911 because restricted breathing rendered me incapable - an issue overlooked by Text To 911 advocates, valid nonetheless.

My New Year's resolution comes early in announcing a campaign to implement this critical avenue to emergency services in Lewis County sooner than later.

Updates to follow.

***

Toledo Community Library Adult Page Turners meets December 29:

Picture
Order from Timberland Regional Library Kiosk.

Game Time for middle and high school students 3:30-5:00 p.m. second and fourth Wednesdays features hands-on board games.

Box Tops are still being collected for Toledo Schools, and the library is a drop-off point for them.

Toledo Community Library open Wednesdays until 7 p.m., Thursdays and Saturdays until 5 p.m. Say Hi to Charlie when you drop by, the best friend a columnist could ever want.

On Facebook.

***

Today: ToledoTel’s Bingo Daily Number link here.

Reminder: 5 cans/$5 = 1 raffle ticket for 40” Visio HDTV. All proceeds benefit Toledo Food Bank.

***

Today: No Park Board meeting this month.

Toledo Park Board meets 3 p.m. second Wednesdays monthly in City Chambers. Contact Toledo City Hall for special accommodations or cancellations at (360)864-4564.

***

Cowlitz Prairie Grange 6:30 p.m. meeting is a potluck second Wednesdays, cake-and-ice-cream affair fourth Wednesdays. Grange Hall at 5180 Jackson Highway. Contact Sandy Bickar, (360)864-2601.

***

Photos from TOT archives unless otherwise noted.
Everyday Heroes: Envisioned as a local September 11 observation recognizing lesser-known acts of kindness and heroism. Send your nominations to toledo.columnist@gmail.com.

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.

Subscribe to Newsletter
0 Comments

12.13.2016 Tuesday Column and Tech Report

12/13/2016

0 Comments

 
In today’s column:

  • TES Musical Review
  • Christmas Tea @ Presbyterian Church Today
  • Toledo Food Bank, toys & clothing collection sites
  • Weekly Calendar
  • Tech Tuesday

Picture
***


PSA: Toledo schools closures via Facebook, radio and TV. Download the PDF link on District FB page listing all media outlets including flash alerts.

Low temps and chance of snowfall later this week.

***

TES Musical Review: 324 students belted it out last night at Toledo High School gym, the only venue in town big enough to house the Jingle Bell Jukebox Musical, and still it was standing room only.

The Grinch made an appearance, followed by the Jolly Old Elf himself, Santa.


Mr Stavig wrapped up the evening’s performance by leading the audience in Silent Night. Possibly my favorite Christmas production to date.

***

December Coffee House included some familiar voices and one new to me. Mr Gaul’s student art provided the ideal backdrop for performers. Dinner featured tomato soup and cheese zombies.

Jeremy Cook ushered us in on piano, followed by Thomas Campbell. Dakota Robbins offered up a soulful rendition of We All Want What We Ain’t Got, plus favored standby Sweet Child of Mine. Josie Williams, slated for Saturday’s Pick N’ Roll fundraiser for boys and girls basketball Saturday night ($10/$15 at the door) played piano and sang Hey Jude, then picked up her ukulele for Stay With Me. Raven Nyberg and Emily Tyner, accompanied by smartphone musical backup, sang the Christmas duet Baby It’s Cold Outside. Thomas Campbell returned to the stage with his trademark humor, this time setting up three volunteers as, well, suckers, before getting serious with Dvorak’s Brave New World on piano.

Racyn Birdwell of Chehalis won me over with Jimmi Hendrix’ Star Spangled Banner complete with electric guitar and amp feedback.


Tiana Berg, a capella, wowed the room with Christmas song Mary Did You Know, then “made a fool of myself” with I Want A Hippopotamus For Christmas. Mason Gaul and Tyler Crawford entertained with vocals and acoustic guitar. A delightful skit about a Christmas Elf who came to stay rounded out the evening, one more set with 2 vocalists plus guitar concluded another great Coffee House evening.

***

Today: Toledo Presbyterian Women will be hosting their Annual Christmas Tea at the church, 312 Augustus, beginning 1:00 p.m. The community is invited to attend. Program, music and refreshments are included.*

*There’s a less than 10% chance of precipitation, and the chance of a special guest appearance for this event.

***

Science: While you’re gazing skyward, EarthSky.org reports: On the nights of December 11 and 13, 2016, you might see some meteors as the 2016 Geminid meteor shower picks up steam.

***

Steamboat Plaza says: Stop by for your favorite coffee and be sure to bring nonperishable goods for the (Toledo) food bank and you get .50 off your drink.  

Other Toledo Food Bank collection sites around town include Toledo Market Fresh, Riverview NAPA/Deli/Hardware & Feed, ToledoTel, City Hall and Timberland Bank.

City Hall collects toys and clothing as well through Friday, December 16. Timberland Bank features their Giving Tree, featuring anonymous gift requests for children in the greater Toledo area. A few opportunities remain before Friday deadline to fulfill a Giving Tree wish.

***

Gallery 505 Artists Co-op December theme “Holiday Gifts Under $100.” Tuesday - Saturday 1-5 p.m. For handcrafted, heirloom quality gifts sure to be treasured for generations.

Also on Facebook.

***

Today: ToledoTel’s Bingo Daily Number link here.

Reminder: 5 cans/$5 = 1 raffle ticket for 40” Visio HDTV. All proceeds benefit Toledo Food Bank.

***

Wednesday: No Park Board meeting this month.

Toledo Park Board meets 3 p.m. second Wednesdays monthly in City Chambers. Contact Toledo City Hall for special accommodations or cancellations at (360)864-4564.

***

Cowlitz Prairie Grange 6:30 p.m. meeting is a potluck second Wednesdays, cake-and-ice-cream affair fourth Wednesdays. Grange Hall at 5180 Jackson Highway. Contact Sandy Bickar, (360)864-2601.

***

Thursday: No Planning Commission meeting this month.

Toledo Planning Commission meets 7 p.m. third Thursdays monthly in City Chambers. Contact Toledo City Hall for special accommodations or cancellations at (360)864-4564.

***

Friday: Path of Hope Al-Anon AFG meets 7 p.m. weekly at Toledo Presbyterian Church, 312 Augustus.

***

Toledo Senior Center Community Christmas Dinner and Entertainment Saturday. Doors open 4 p.m., dinner served 5 p.m. Dinner $10.63/under 60yo ($3 suggested donation/60+). Music by The Classics $7. Reservations required.

Contact Diana, diana.haug@lewiscountywa.gov or call (360)864-2112.

***

Saturday: Toledo Indian Boys and Girls Basketball Teams present...

Picture
***

Monday: Toledo Food Bank open 10 a.m. - 1 p.m. behind City Hall. Closed Friday this week.

***

Also Monday: City Council meeting 6 p.m. at Town Hall. Public invited. Contact Toledo City Hall for special accommodations or cancellations at (360)864-4564.

***

Reminder: Toledo School District’s regular monthly Board of Directors meeting will be held 6 p.m. Monday, December 19, 2016 at Toledo Middle School Library.* The public is invited to attend.

Monthly agendas are available online at the District website, as are minutes of past BOD meetings.

*Toledo School District regularly held Board of Directors meetings convene monthly 7 p.m. third Thursdays at Toledo Middle School library unless schedule conflicts arise.

***

Tech Tuesday:

A Grey Area Computer Repair is on Facebook here.

***

Lifehacker posts Top 10 Ways To Speed Up Old Technology. File under Savings if new tech doesn’t find its way under your Christmas tree this year.

***

From MoneyTalksNews, 10 Strategies to Save Big Bucks on Amazon. Some are familiar, some you didn’t know about.

***

PCMag offers 17 Hidden Roku Tricks For Streaming Success to get the most out of your free Roku from ToledoTel. What, you didn’t know about that?

***

Photos from TOT archives unless otherwise noted.
Everyday Heroes: Envisioned as a local September 11 observation recognizing lesser-known acts of kindness and heroism. Send your nominations to toledo.columnist@gmail.com.

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.

Subscribe to Newsletter
0 Comments

12.12.2016 Monday Column

12/12/2016

1 Comment

 
In today’s column:

  • Weekend Recap: Holiday House
  • TES Musical @ High School 6 PM
  • THS December Coffee House 7:30 PM
  • Presbyterian Church Welcomes New Minister, Hosts Annual Christmas Tea
  • Vision:Toledo Arts, Rec & Events Rescheduled

Picture
Photo courtesy Lewis County Tribune

Hundreds of spectators braved the icy wind and rain…
More photos and details at Lewis County Tribune.

***

PSA: Toledo schools closures via Facebook, radio and TV. Download the PDF link on District FB page listing all media outlets including flash alerts.

***

Holiday House Review: Exquisite detail, from the traditional delicacies and libations to themed rooms - Scottish, Children’s, Barbie, this Cottage Holiday House embodies Christmas spirit.
Santa arrived later to read “Twas The Night Before Christmas” to his audience. Asking to hear their wishes, Santa was warmly surprised to find that those gathered declared they already possessed everything one could wish for - home, family and friends, meaningful pursuits, optimism for the future.
Congrats to Vanessa, recipient of the handcrafted evergreen garland. Contact Gary or Kathy to pick up your fragrant festive Christmas decor.

May the Gifts of the Season be yours as well.

*"Twas The Night Before Christmas" Facebook link courtesy Kathy and Gary Whiteside


***

Rescheduled:

  • Who: vision:Toledo Arts, Rec & Events
  • What: Monthly Meeting
  • When: 6:30 p.m. Tuesday, December 20, 2016
  • Where: Morgan Arts Centre, 190 Plomondon Road  
  • Why: Promote Arts, Recreation and Entertainment throughout the Greater Toledo Area.

Mike says: vision:Toledo Arts, Recreation, and Events meetings are usually held on the 4th Tuesday of each month.  Due to the Holidays, we have moved December’s meeting to the Tuesday before Christmas, not the 2nd Tuesday as previously stated.


Visit www.morganartscentre.com or call (360)864-4ART for info.

***
Tonight:
  • Who: Toledo Elementary Students
  • What: Musical “Jingle Bell Jukebox”
  • When: 6 p.m. Monday
  • Where: Toledo High School

  • Why: (From Mike Stavig) The students of Toledo Elementary School have been working on the musical since September. It includes music and acting, plus some special appearances by some holiday friends. The public is invited!

***

Toledo High School December Coffee House follows the Musical at 7:30 p.m. featuring Cheese Zombies. Always a crowd-pleaser.

***

Announcement: (From Judy Bassett) Toledo Presbyterian Church now has a new Minister! His name is Joel Whiteside. He and his wife Carol hail from Kansas City, Mo. They were warmly welcomed by the congregation in late November. They look forward to getting to know Toledo and its residents as they get settled into their home.

***

Tuesday:
  • Who: Toledo Presbyterian Women
  • What: Annual Christmas Tea
  • When: 1 p.m. Tuesday, December 13, 2016
  • Where: Presbyterian Church, 312 Augustus, Toledo WA
  • Why: Toledo Presbyterian Women will be hosting their Annual Christmas Tea  beginning 1:00 p.m. The community is invited to attend. Program, music and refreshments are included.*

When this columnist attended the Christmas Tea a few years back, the music far exceeded expectations. If you appreciate the extraordinary in your own backyard, do not miss this opportunity to welcome the Season.

*There’s a 30% chance of precipitation, and a chance of a special guest appearance for this event.

***

Today: ToledoTel’s Bingo Daily Number link here.

Reminder: 5 cans/$5 = 1 raffle ticket for 40” Visio HDTV. All proceeds benefit Toledo Food Bank.

***

Reservations required: Wednesday Toledo Senior Center Nutrition Lunch serves up garlic chicken breast with mashed potatoes and green beans, berry crisp and dinner roll, Friday Shepard’s Pie, zucchini & tomatoes, peaches, chocolate cake & dinner roll. Nutrition Lunches Wednesday and Friday are sponsored in part by Area Agency on Aging. Suggested donation $3 for those 60+ years of age. Contact Diana, diana.haug@lewsicountywa.gov or call (360)864-2112.

***

Mark your calendar:  
  • Who: Toledo Senior Center
  • What: Special Holiday Dinner
  • When: December 17 - doors open 4 p.m., dinner 5 p.m.
  • Where: 150 Coal Street
  • Why: Food, entertainment with The Classics*, door prizes
  • Cost: $10.63/under 60yo ($3 suggested donation/60yo+)
  • Plus: $7.00* entertainment

Come & enjoy an evening of good food. Help end the year 2016 with with your friends at the Senior Center.
Door prizes galore.
Reservations required.
Dinner funded in part by Area Agency on Aging.

***

Photos from TOT archives unless otherwise noted.
Everyday Heroes: Envisioned as a local September 11 observation recognizing lesser-known acts of kindness and heroism. Send your nominations to toledo.columnist@gmail.com.

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.

Subscribe to Newsletter
1 Comment

12.09.2016 Friday Column and Weekend Outlook

12/9/2016

0 Comments

 
In today’s column:

  • Snow May Keep Schools Closed

  • Winter Weather May Close Businesses.
  • Christmas Open House
  • Upcoming Holiday Musical, Coffee House
  • Senior Center Christmas Dinner

Picture
Image courtesy Toledo Lions

Posted Thursday on Toledo Lions Facebook: Please drive slow and be safe!

***

Toledo schools closures via Facebook, radio and TV. Download the PDF link on District FB page listing all media outlets including flash alerts.
***

ToledoTel announced via Facebook yesterday early business closure due to heavy snowfall. Check other local businesses and offices for closures before venturing out in winter weather conditions via phone, Facebook or other media.

***

Today: ToledoTel’s Bingo Daily Number link here.

Reminder: 5 cans/$5 = 1 raffle ticket for 40” Visio HDTV. All proceeds benefit Toledo Food Bank.

***

Also: Toledo Food Bank is behind City Hall, open 10 a.m. - 1 p.m. second and fourth Fridays unless otherwise noted.*

*Food Bank will be open Monday, December 19 during usual hours, and not Friday, December 23. Normal schedule will resume January 2017.

Contact Toledo City Hall if you need further information.

***

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.

***

Path of Hope Al-Anon AFG meets 7 p.m. Fridays at Toledo Presbyterian Church, 312 Augustus.

***

Saturday: Toledo Senior Center hosts their monthly Second Saturday Breakfast (7:30 - 10:00 a.m.) featuring AYCE hotcakes and full fare breakfast (biscuits and gravy for early risers). Still only $5. Contact Diana, diana.haug@lewiscountywa.gov or call (360)864-2112 for details.

***

Also: Holiday Inn Open House
  • Who: Gary & Kathy Whiteside
  • What: Holiday Inn Open House
  • When: 4-8 p.m. Saturday
  • Where: 590 Augustus Street - Rose Cottage Glenngaran
  • Why: Celebrate the Season
Gary & Kathy say: Please pass this invite on. We desire that no one be left out.


Look for Santa to arrive sometime after 6 p.m. to read “The Night Before Christmas,” listen to Christmas wishes and pose for your camera pics.


There will be treats galore, hot cocoa, special holiday teas and more, plus a raffle for a festive holiday garland.

We sure hope you can spend this magical evening with us. It is our way of saying thank you to our community. We all have a hand in making this a community great!

***

Monday: (From Mike Stavig) The students of Toledo Elementary School will be presenting the musical, “Jingle Bell Jukebox” at 6:30 p.m. Monday, December 12, at Toledo High School. The kids have been working on the musical since September. It includes music and acting, plus some special appearances by some holiday friends. The public is invited!


***

Then: Toledo High School December Coffee House follows the Musical at 7:30 p.m. featuring Cheese Zombies. Always a crowd-pleaser.

***

Reservations required: Wednesday Toledo Senior Center Nutrition Lunch serves up garlic chicken breast with mashed potatoes and green beans, berry crisp and dinner roll, Shepard’s Pie, zucchini & tomatoes, peaches, chocolate cake & dinner roll. Nutrition Lunches Wednesday and Friday are sponsored in part by Area Agency on Aging. Suggested donation $3 for those 60+ years of age. Contact Diana, diana.haug@lewsicountywa.gov or call (360)864-2112.

Mark your calendar:  
  • Who: Toledo Senior Center
  • What: Special Holiday Dinner
  • When: December 17 - doors open 4 p.m., dinner 5 p.m.
  • Where: 150 Coal Street
  • Why: Food, entertainment with The Classics*, door prizes
  • Cost: $10.63/under 60yo ($3 suggested donation/60yo+)
  • Plus: $7.00* entertainment

Come & enjoy an evening of good food. Help end the year 2016 with with your friends at the Senior Center.
Door prizes galore.
Reservations required.

Dinner funded in part by Area Agency on Aging.


***

Photos from TOT archives unless otherwise noted.
Everyday Heroes: Envisioned as a local September 11 observation recognizing lesser-known acts of kindness and heroism. Send your nominations to toledo.columnist@gmail.com.

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12.08.2016 Thursday Column - Late Edition 

12/8/2016

0 Comments

 
In today’s column:

  • Snow May Close Schools Early
  • Holiday Giving with Local Flair
  • On Health
Picture
***

Toledo School District via Facebook: The National Weather Service forecasts snow beginning during the day (Thursday Dec. 8) with accumulations up to 3" It is possible that road conditions will require that we dismiss school early (today.) We will monitor conditions throughout the day to make sure that students are transported safely. If an early dismissal is indicated, we will notify families via automated phone call and through the regular media outlets (including Facebook). Please monitor the outlet that is most convenient for you.

Snow routes PDF may be downloaded via this FB link, which also lists notification options and media coverage.

*Update: Toledo School District will dismiss school today at 11:30. Buses will load at 11:50 and be on snow routes.

***

Schedule change: Toledo School District’s regular monthly Board of Directors meeting will be held 6 p.m. Monday, December 19, 2016 at Toledo Middle School Library.* The public is invited to attend.

Monthly agendas are available online at the District website, as are minutes of past BOD meetings.

*Toledo School District regularly held Board of Directors meetings convene monthly 7 p.m. third Thursdays at Toledo Middle School library unless schedule conflicts arise.

***

Cowlitz Indian Tribe via Facebook links to the Steven R Nelson Native Educator Scholarship Program. Deadline 12.31.2016. Details here.

***

Also today: ToledoTel’s Bingo Daily Number link here.
Reminder: 5 cans/$5 = 1 raffle ticket for 40” Visio HDTV. All proceeds benefit Toledo Food Bank.

***

Santa gets his juice from Christmas movies past and present, usually requiring the whole theatre experience - gallon bucket of popcorn and liter of iced soda, classic movie candy in boxes large enough to pass around a classroom. Phone turned to vibrate, feet stretched out, elbows and armrest arrangements squared before fixating on the film. Ready to roll.

Laugh uproariously at the funny parts, then ask “What did they say?” when the laughter spills over into the following dialogue. Review the best parts on the way out of the cinema, on the ride home, sometimes quoting quips days afterward and laughing some more.

These adventures set the tone for the season, along with the Christmas music playing 24 hours from Park City (I think), the ubiquitous fruitcake (yes, Santa really, REALLY loves fruitcake, no kidding), apple cider and cookies and peppermint bark.

Most of all Santa loves bringing the joy of Christmas to smiling faces, often drawing out shy youngsters and camera-phobic guests alike with his antics and reading, listening to whispered wishes and lengthy lists. Popular toys, puppies, stylish garb, books and movies, the list goes on.

Some Christmas wishes are more meaningful than tangible, like a visit to a distant relation, time spent with grandchildren, or memory-making pastimes. My favorite oft-told tale: A Cup of Christmas Tea, from 1981.

Thinking outside the box (pun intended), unique heirloom-quality gifts are treasured long after this year’s Top 100 fade into insignificance. Our own early family get-togethers saw two teens delighted with their handcrafted quilts (no, not my handiwork).

Already this year I scored hand-felted slippers that I absolutely live in, an exquisitely textured lap quilt, a Siamese (draped languidly around a coffee mug), and Ethan Siegel’s readable science primer Beyond The Galaxy (albeit in ebook format), all from our Gallery 505.


Tuesday-Saturday through December 24: Gallery 505 Artists Co-op theme: Holiday Gifts under $100. Open 1-5 p.m.

Still undecided? New pics added to Facebook page.

While you’re there, get the details on the Art Contest for children, hosted by the Gallery 505.

Don’t forget the Metal Christmas Tree sculpture, exchange one ornament for raffle ticket. Drawing December 23.  

***

Local merchants offer gift certificates on goods and services, support the local economy (spelled: your friends and neighbors), and avoid the crowds on the roads and in the stores.

***

On Health:

Magnesium is uncommonly low in many chronic asthma sufferers, but deficiency factors in high blood pressure, depression, osteopenia/osteoporosis, elevated cholesterol levels, and more. According to Dr Peter Osborne of Glutenology (YouTube), 3 main contributors are modern lifestyle issues - stress, diuretics* and a diet high in refined carbohydrates.

Fortunately, high-quality supplements cost only about $14/90-day supply, less than $5 monthly.

*Not just OTC or prescribed diuretics, although those are addressed in the video.

***

Photos from TOT archives unless otherwise noted.
Everyday Heroes: Envisioned as a local September 11 observation recognizing lesser-known acts of kindness and heroism. Send your nominations to toledo.columnist@gmail.com.

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

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12.07.2016 Wednesday Column

12/7/2016

0 Comments

 
In today’s column:

  • Point Guard Boosters Score Generous Upgrades
  • Holiday Inn Open House in Toledo
  • TES Students Holiday Musical @ High School
  • THS Coffee House
Picture
***

Thanks to the Point Guard Booster Club, local donations netted new backboards, scoreboards, shot clocks and scoring table, valued around $25,000.

Picture
Image courtesy of Toledo school District Facebook

Details on Facebook.

***

From Gary and Kathy Whiteside:

Picture
Image courtesy Gary and Kathy Whiteside

We are opening up our cottage to the community for a festive holiday event. Our home has become Holiday Inn for the Season. Santa has arranged a special visit taking precious time out of his very busy schedule to spend the evening with us. He will be a reading "The Night Before Christmas" and will also be available for entertaining your Christmas wish list. Be sure to bring your camera for that magic moment.

There will be Christmas treats galore, hot cocoa, special holiday teas and more to wet your whistle all wrapped up in a Christmasy atmosphere in our Holiday Inn. There will also be a raffle for a festive evergreen garland.

We sure hope you can spend this magical evening with us. It is our way of saying thank you to our community. We all have a hand in making this a community great!

Please pass this invite on. We desire that no one be left out.

Date  :         December 10th

Time  :         4pm to 8

Where:         590 Augustus Street, Toledo, WA 98591

Hosts:           Gary & Kathy Whiteside
                     Rose Cottage - Glenngarann
                     AKA, Holiday Inn

Email:           glenngarann@aol.com

Phone:          360/864-4036

***

From Mike Stavig: The students of Toledo Elementary School will be presenting the musical, “Jingle Bell Jukebox” at 6:30 p.m. Monday, December 12, at Toledo High School. The kids have been working on the musical since September. It includes music and acting, plus some special appearances by some holiday friends. The public is invited!

***

Toledo High School December Coffee House follows the Musical at 7:30 p.m. featuring Cheese Zombies. Always a crowd-pleaser.

***

Wednesday: Toledo Community Library hosts Game Time for middle and high school students second & fourth Wednesdays 3:30-5 p.m. On Facebook.

***

Correction: Lewis County Tribune established that pictures DO reveal the depth of decay within the high school structure. The Other Toledo incorrectly stated in Friday’s post that “photos do not reveal the decay permeating the structure.” LCT proves that a good photog beats out my fuzzy cell phone pics.

Vision:Toledo linked The Chronicle’s take on last Thursday’s FCCLA Dine In Dinner & facility tour as well, posting online Monday.

Citizens for Great Toledo Schools has distilled the data compiled by the Facilities Advisory Committee into priority upgrades and critical repairs. Details online. Also on Facebook.
       
***

Today: ToledoTel’s Bingo Daily Number link here.

Reminder: 5 cans/$5 = 1 raffle ticket for 40” Visio HDTV. All proceeds benefit Toledo Food Bank.

***

Photos from TOT archives unless otherwise noted.
Everyday Heroes: Envisioned as a local September 11 observation recognizing lesser-known acts of kindness and heroism. Send your nominations to toledo.columnist@gmail.com.

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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12.06.2016 Tuesday Column and Tech Report

12/6/2016

0 Comments

 
In today’s column:

  • CGGC lauds Toledo’s helping hands
  • TSD Press Release
  • Tech Report
Still, it was beautiful…

***
In case you missed it - via Facebook, CGGC says: The enchanted Christmas cottage looking all snug and cozy in The Kemp Olson Memorial Park, Toledo, Washington. Santa's is coming to town!
Picture
Image courtesy Common Ground Garden Community

Downtown decor is lighting up too. More photos on Common Ground Garden Community online.

*Pssst: Wait’ll you hear what’s next!

***

Tis the Season - Via Facebook, Camp Singing Wind says: Anybody interested in cutting their own Christmas Tree? How about a pig for the livestock lover in your family? ...or for your freezer? Message back on FB and keep it local.

***

PRESS RELEASE

Community Learns About Toledo High School Needs Over Dinner

TOLEDO December 1, 2016 — Community members toured Toledo High School to learn more about the facility’s needs as part of Dine In Day sponsored by FCCLA. Students from Toledo High School conducted tours of the school and answered questions and then served a complimentary spaghetti dinner for an estimated crowd of 80.

Students highlighted safety, learning and energy efficiency deficits in the 41-year –old building and talked about some of the updates needed. “It’s sad that some of the artwork has been damaged by water in the art room”, said student Brianna Beecroft. Parents saw evidence of outdated equipment, electrical and plumbing supplies as well as problems with leaking walls, windows and ceilings. “The building was constructed 40 years ago before seismic engineering and energy efficiencies were developed. As a result, this building is cold in the winter and hot in the spring and would not fare well in an earthquake”, according to Superintendent Chris Rust.

Voters in the Toledo district will consider a $14.2 million bond measure in February. The measure is nearly $10 million less than the bond which did not pass in 2014. Community members concluded a study of the district’s facilities in June and recommended a prioritized list of projects to the board in July. The district has been providing building tours and information to the community regarding the proposed measure and the projects since then. “I lead tours of the high school every Tuesday evening at 6 p.m. and again at halftime of each home varsity basketball game. I want our neighbors to be fully informed when they complete their ballot”, said Rust. “This is all about promises made and promises kept.”

More information about the proposed bond can be found on the district’s website, www.toledoschools.us as well as on the district’s Facebook page.

***

Tech Tuesday:

Via Facebook, Greg says: Back up, back up, back up. You do not want this.

While we’re on the subject of Facebook, you might think twice before you post: Facebook developing artificial intelligence to flag offensive live videos.

A Grey Area Computer Repair is on Facebook.

***

AARP reports: New Amazon Phishing Scam: ‘Confirm Your Information’ to Process Order. This one already landed in my gmail Primary inbox. No, I didn’t open it.

I called A Grey Area Computer Repair, Greg rolled up his sleeves and posted this link on determining legitimate emails from the online retailer.

***

From Money Talks News, 10 Simple Money Moves to Make Before the New Year including a simple way to reduce your risk of ID Theft.

MTN also has great resources on various debt and credit issues, and more.

***

Though data breaches are beyond your control, How I Got Rid Of 4 Filing Cabinets (& All My Bookcases)* is relevant even two years later, as paper thieves need no sophisticated skills. Included are links on going (mostly) paperless. (MTN agrees.)

*This annual post arrives in December this year, as one incident of ID Theft I experienced involved neighborhood mailbox pilfering the third week of January, the time of year your W-2’s and other sensitive personal information typically arrive.
          
***

Today: ToledoTel’s Bingo Daily Number link here.

Reminder: 5 cans/$5 = 1 raffle ticket for 40” Visio HDTV. All proceeds benefit Toledo Food Bank.

***

Instructor Kim Broussard says: We started Tuesday of (last) week, and will go through February 9th, taking the week of Christmas off (December 20-26). Toledo Senior Center offers Better Bones and Balance, a low-impact exercise class Tuesdays and Thursdays 3:30-4:30 p.m. Those North of 50years old/$30, others $40.

***

Also today: Toledo School District Superintendent Chris Rust offers tours of the high school 6 p.m. Tuesdays. Additionally, Rust has volunteered to meet anyone interested in scheduling a tour “anytime.” Toledo School District is also on Facebook.

***

Wednesday: Toledo Community Library hosts Game Time for middle and high school students second & fourth Wednesdays 3:30-5 p.m. On Facebook.

***

Friday: Toledo Food Bank is behind City Hall, open 10 a.m. - 1 p.m. second and fourth Fridays unless otherwise noted.*

*Food Bank will be open Monday, December 19 during usual hours, and not Friday, December 23. Normal schedule will resume January 2017.

Contact Toledo City Hall if you need further information.

***

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.

***

Path of Hope Al-Anon AFG meets 7 p.m. Fridays at Toledo Presbyterian Church, 312 Augustus.

***

Saturday: Toledo Senior Center hosts their monthly Second Saturday Breakfast (7:30 - 10:00 a.m.) featuring AYCE hotcakes and full fare breakfast (biscuits and gravy for early risers) and bottomless coffee. Still only $5. Contact Diana, diana.haug@lewiscountywa.gov or call (360)864-2112 for details.

***

Photos from TOT archives unless otherwise noted.
Everyday Heroes: Envisioned as a local September 11 observation recognizing lesser-known acts of kindness and heroism. Send your nominations to toledo.columnist@gmail.com.

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.

Subscribe to Newsletter
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12.05.2016 Monday Column

12/5/2016

0 Comments

 
In today’s column:

  • Santa’s Workshop Family Appreciation Day
  • Santa seen Around Toledo
  • Standing Rock: NDAPL To Be Rerouted
  • City Council meets 6 p.m.
  • Holiday Food Drives, Christmas Giving Tree

Picture
Via Facebook, Brandi Devine says: Friendly reminder: Toledo Schools have a 2 hour late start tomorrow! Be sure to check the website for updates regarding snow routes...
* 8:54 a.m. - Toledo, Evaline and Winlock Schools closed, per KingTV.

***

Sunday the Morgan Family hosted their Annual Santa’s Workshop with a gift: Family Appreciation Day.

Via Facebook, Mike says: We had a great time at today's Santa's Workshop at the Morgan Arts Centre.

Morgan Arts Centre was transformed into a dozen stations where makers of all ages hand-painted traditional wooden ornaments, 3-D snowy winter scenes, cozy gingerbread-style houses and custom gift boxes plus more. Holiday headwear, snacks and refreshments, all led up to another surprise…
Santa paid a visit! The Jolly Old Elf read aloud “Twas The Night Before Christmas”, posed for pics and listened to Christmas wishes.

Wrapping up around 4 p.m., Mike and Di Morgan thanked everyone who showed up for taking part, especially for all they (and the community) had done to help their family since August.

Monday and Tuesday offer another chance to experience making and crafting at Santa’s Workshop 3-5 p.m. for the after-school crowd. Details at www.morganartscentre.com.

***

Seen elsewhere around Toledo:

***

Kudos to The Cowlitz Tribe: Featured at a state conference of conservationists for their Otter Creek Project.

Update: As the Cowlitz Tribe stood in solidarity with the Standing Rock Sioux against NDAPL crossing their lands, this eleventh hour turnaround is an answer to prayers far and wide. More on BBC, CNN, USAToday.

***

Congrats to Tonya Lovell, one of twelve recipients of WSECU’s $100 Giving Tuesday awards as featured in The Chronicle Thursday, to be used to toward bettering the community. Atta Girl, Tonya!

***

Timberland Bank’s Annual Giving Tree assures a brighter Christmas for children in your community.
Timberland Bank is also a collection point for Toledo Food Bank. Stop in during business hours and make a difference this season.

***

Along with Vision:Toledo, Lewis County Tribune and of course The Other Toledo, Steamboat Plaza now has an Events page on their new website to help you keep abreast of everything Toledo. Contact them to list your special occasion or to book a meeting.

Also on Facebook.

***

Today: Toledo City Council meets 6 p.m. at City Hall first and third Mondays monthly. Visit website for details.

***

Also today: ToledoTel’s Bingo Daily Number link here.
Reminder: 5 cans/$5 = 1 raffle ticket for 40” Visio HDTV. All proceeds benefit Toledo Food Bank.

***

Tuesday-Saturday through December 24: Gallery 505 Artists Co-op theme: Holiday Gifts under $100. Open 1-5 p.m.

While you’re there, get the details on the Art Contest for children, hosted by the Gallery 505.

Don’t forget the Metal Christmas Tree sculpture, exchange one ornament for raffle ticket. Drawing December 23.  

On Facebook.

***

Reservations required: Nutrition Lunches Wednesday and Friday are sponsored in part by Area Agency on Aging. Suggested donation $3 for those 60+ years of age. Contact Diana, diana.haug@lewsicountywa.gov or call (360)864-2112.

***

Chipped a tooth Saturday, heading back to Portland’s OHSU School of Dentistry for urgent care sometime this week. Though I signed on for scheduled visits, this will be my second emergency trip.

What does this have to do with Toledo? Well, your humble scribe is offering a seat-on-the-bus to anyone* interested in joining me for quality care at reduced prices - on my schedule. About a dozen trips will be slated in all.

Should know by 10 a.m. what my appointment will be this week. Contact me if interested.
Update: "Bus" leaves about noon Tuesday, 1:30 p.m. appointment may last until 5 p.m. Contact OHSU soonest if you too have a dental emergency, as these spots fill fast.

*Sorry, no smokers/heavy scents. Breathing issues, you know.

***

OK, one more time...the link for Healthy Peanut Butter Cups recipe.

***

Photos from TOT archives unless otherwise noted.
Everyday Heroes: Envisioned as a local September 11 observation recognizing lesser-known acts of kindness and heroism. Send your nominations to toledo.columnist@gmail.com.

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.

Subscribe to Newsletter
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12.02.2016 Friday Column and Weekend Outlook

12/2/2016

0 Comments

 
In today’s column:

  • Gallery 505 Opening Night Thursday review
  • FCCLA Dinner recap
  • Saturday Holiday Events
  • Sunday Santa @ the MAC
Picture
Growing Pains: Who knew parking would be scarce in Toledo on a weeknight?
Picture
Honestly, the pictures don’t do it justice - this beauty stole my heart! And you cannot buy it. Victoria Smith explains via Facebook: Raffle for a one-of-a-kind, handmade, metal Christmas tree! Only cost is to bring in a Christmas tree ornament for this tree to the 505 Gallery, Toledo, WA., and fill out a raffle ticket! All of the ornaments will go with the tree to the winner...

Details here.
Opening Night feels special, and this one blended artists and holiday works and especially delectable finger food and libations, hangable, wearable, practical, beautiful, sparkly, evocative handiwork crafted right here by talented artisans. From the Raggedy Ann to intricate woodcrafts, wooly bears to scarves, jewelry and clay accents, there truly is something here for everyone. December theme: Gifts Under $100.


Gallery 505 Artists Co-op is open 1-5 Tuesday - Saturday through December 24. Also on Facebook.

And don’t forget the art contest for children hosted by Gallery 505 Artists Co-op.

***

The Good News: FCCLA/School District Dine In Dinner was outstanding! No soggy pasta with anemic sauce here, no ma’am. Seconds available for anyone who asked, too. Photo op with an elegant table setting, music by Bonnie and Tom, a demonstration of the Boot Scootin’ Boogie by the FCCLA gang, and a VIP table for Hizzoner Mayor Dobosh and family plus 2 representatives* from WA-FACS - Washington Family and Consumer Sciences, on hand to award Ms Ketchum for outstanding achievements far too numerous to track (I lost count at around a dozen), plus recognition for her new position as State President for 2017.

By far the most inclusive act was their accommodation of my restricted menu (gluten- and dairy-free), truly welcoming me to the table as Family. Our future is in capable hands with these teens, I sense.

*The Other Toledo erronously noted these 2 visiting dignitaries as being from the FCCLA. TOT apologizes this oversight.
The Bad News: FFA and several other student organizations were on hand to conduct tours of the facility, and let me tell you - photos do not reveal the decay permeating the structure. My hike included some areas where the indoor air quality was decidedly below Acceptable, as my young guide (who has no history of breathing issues) began coughing and clearing her throat, the effects following her outside those classrooms.

One student elaborated about her teacher who regularly cleans and disinfects the walls of her classroom for herself and her charges.

I have faith Toledo will do the right thing in February. You know what I’m talkin’ about.*

Toledo School District did their homework last night before turning in, photos on Facebook. Good work ethic, TSD.

*Citizens For Great Toledo Schools, also on Facebook, offers this sweetener: MAKE SMALL VIDEOS - WIN BIG PRIZES. Website has details.

***

Today: ToledoTel’s Bingo Daily Number link here.
Also: 5 cans/$5 = 1 raffle ticket for 40 Visio HDTV. Proceeds benefit Toledo Food Bank.

***

Saturday: Annual Walk N’ Knock

Picture
***

And: Toledo Community Library Book N’ Bake Sale
Picture
***

Plus: Toledo Senior Bazaar
Picture
***

And: 3rd Annual Potlatch Bazaar @ St Mary’s
Picture
***


Sunday: Santa Tours Toledo, makes special stop at the MAC
Picture
***

Monday: Toledo City Council meets 6 p.m. at City Hall first and third Mondays monthly. Position open: Public Works Superintendent. Visit website for details.

***

Photos from TOT archives unless otherwise noted.
Everyday Heroes: Envisioned as a local September 11 observation recognizing lesser-known acts of kindness and heroism. Send your nominations to toledo.columnist@gmail.com.

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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12.01.2016 Thursday Column

12/1/2016

0 Comments

 
In today’s column:

  • Lewis County Commissioners Face Toledo Seniors
  • Gallery 505 Opening Night Thursday
  • FCCLA hosts Dine In Dinner to Thank Community
  • On Health

Picture
Lewis County Tribune reported Wednesday that all five Lewis County Senior Centers will be fully funded through 2017. Commissioner Gary Stamper announced to Toledo Senior Center’s capacity crowd this reversal of the Board’s original plan to shift oversight of the Senior Centers to cities or non-profit agencies following Tuesday’s heated meeting in Winlock at the Olequa Senior Center. Details at lewiscountytribune.com.
All ages showed their support.

Lewis County Tribune is also on Facebook.

***

ToledoTel says: Get your BINGO cards at our business office! First bingo ball will be posted here today.

Picture
Win an Amazon Tap or $25 Amazon gift certificate. Details on Facebook.

And when you stop in, PU a raffle ticket for $5 or 5 non-perishable food items for a chance to win this 40” Visio HDTV.
Picture
All proceeds benefit Toledo Food Bank. Drawing in January 2017.


***

Gallery 505 Artists Co-op Opening Night 4-8 p.m. with light snacks and refreshments, music and conversation, to kick off December’s theme, Holiday Gifts Under $100.

Handcrafted originals you just can’t find in big box stores. Gift like you mean it. On Facebook.

***

Dine In Spaghetti Dinner 6 p.m. sponsored by FCCLA and TSD to promote the value of families eating together and to provide information about the THS facility. Free.
Picture
Image courtesy Toledo School District

Students will serve dinner and also lead tours of THS.
Toledo School District is on Facebook.

***
Picture
***

Steamboat Plaza says: We have a Community Events page on our SteamBoat Plaza website.

A few postings:
  • Weekly specials
  • Small meeting area w/ coffee service available
  • Holiday canned food drive
  • Saturday Walk N’ Knock
  • December 17 Jingle Bell Run

On Facebook.

***

On Health:

Migraine sufferers seem more willing than most to try something new for relief. As the triggers span the spectrum, no one remedy works for everyone. Check out this inversion practice from mindbodygreen.com.

***

University of Southern California reports fasting-like diet triggers immune system response against cancer. Article link here.

***

Sciencemag.org on real-time global air pollution.  
Watch air pollution flow across the planet in real time. Scary.

***

Photos from TOT archives unless otherwise noted.
Everyday Heroes: Envisioned as a local September 11 observation recognizing lesser-known acts of kindness and heroism. Send your nominations to toledo.columnist@gmail.com.

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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