My apologies for being so preoccupied with the hot weather that I failed to mention how fantastic the 4th of July festivities were in both Ryderwood and Vader. Many thanks to all of the individuals and groups that made the celebration of this country's independence so beautiful.
Toledo's 31st Annual Mount St. Helens Bluegrass Festival promises a fine group of performers August 7 thru 9. The pertinent information for area Seniors is half-price tickets are available for Saturday night's (after 4 p.m.) performance. Ryderwoodites can contact Dave Stormo for discounted tickets.
The Social Club Coffee Stop continues through Friday. Call Terry at 747-0035 to volunteer for a shift or provide cookies. There can never be enough cookies. "Coffee Stops" at the Toutle Rest Stop help support area non-profit groups.
'Summer Picnic' is the theme for Friday night's dinner at the Café. The menu is cold fried chicken with potato salad, fresh fruit and apple pie. Served at 5 p.m., the all-inclusive meal (including beverage) is $9. Please call 295-0875 by Wednesday to make reservations.
Saturday evening is this month's Town Potluck at 5 p.m. in Community Hall. Hosted by the Social Club, this is one of the best places to meet folks and learn about "what's happ-nin'" on in Ryderwood. A brief meeting is held after the meal and some stay to play cards afterwards.
Card Bingo will take place this Sunday at 6:30 p.m. in Community Hall. This has got to be the easiest game of all time. It requires zero skill, winning is pure luck, and players pay out a maximum of $2.60. I don't consider it gambling when there is a limit on how much you can lose. All these players do is trade loose change.
The Senior Nutrition meal on Tuesday the 21st will be chicken & rice casserole with glazed carrots, melon and berries. The meals are served at noon and a $3 donation is requested. Please make or break reservations by 6 p.m. on Monday by calling 295-3813. All readers over 60 are invited.
Have a great week and please don't play with matches.