Tsunami vertical evacuation tower ready for action

Last week marked the completion of the first free-standing tsunami vertical evacuation tower in the U.S. The tower is located near Tokeland before you get to the Tokeland Hotel. The tower was built by the Shoalwater Bay Indian Tribe using their funds and a FEMA grant.

The tower is named 'Auntie Lee' after Lee Shipman, the retired emergency manager for the tribe. This is to honor her since she was the driving force behind securing the funding for the tower.

8th Annual Cattle Sorting on Aug. 12 thru 14

Another round of summer fun begins with a Cattle Sorting Clinic on August 12 put on by the Pacific County Friends of the Fair Foundation 501c3 (FOF). The entertainment continues with Cattle Sorting Practice which is scheduled for August 13 and 14 at the Pacific County Fairgrounds in Menlo.

"We have added a day to cattle sorting," said FOF President Val Rowe. "Friday, August 12 is the Cattle Sorting Clinic. Larry Mielke and Robert Bouffard, professional riders and cattle sorters, have offered to teach a sorting clinic for FOF. The proceeds will go to FOF. Currently the clinic is full with 18 riders from all over the state and a waiting list."

Mt. St. Helens Bluegrass Festival this weekend in Toledo

The 37th Annual Mt. St. Helens Bluegrass Festival is this weekend at Kemp Olson Park in Toledo. The Bluegrass Festival has been a part of Toledo for many years, bringing people from all over the country.

General Cothren, who has been organizing this event stated, "We have a great variety of bands who will entertain you throughout the weekend. It is a great time for all who attend." If you are a senior citizen and would like to purchase discounted tickets before the event, please contact General at 360-520-4524. Discounted tickets must be purchased before the event.

Toledo hires 3 new firefighters/EMTs

Toledo Fire Department, aka Lewis County Fire District #2, has hired three new firefighters/EMTs to help the city. With each community growing, it is important to have the services available to the residents who live there. Being a part of a community is a unique feeling, but being a part of a community with pride is a gift. Toledo is just that community, one with pride and a sense that we all need to work together. The citizens of Toledo voted for the new firefighters/EMTs. Now service is available around the clock; another show of Toledo coming together.

Small business grants available through pandemic relief funds

Small business grants available through pandemic relief funds

Another round of state pandemic relief grants is on the way, with a focus on - but not limited to - the arts, heritage and science sectors, and businesses relying on Washington Convention Center events, such as theaters and live entertainment venues.

Applications for the Working Washington Grants: Round 5 and new Convention Center Grants programs open Wednesday Aug. 17. Together, these programs will distribute $75 million in pandemic relief grants to eligible small businesses and nonprofits across Washington.

The online commercegrants.com portal has guidelines and information to help applicants get ready to submit applications.

Classifieds 8.10.22