21 Comments
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paula graham's avatar

I believe this is the most heartwarming article I’ve read to date here on the Peninsula!

Thank you for your fine coverage of this community and Vern Hestand.

His advise and example are beautiful and a community treasure. Thank you for covering and presenting it here Jeff❣️

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Jeff Tozzer's avatar

Isn't he great? There's a lot of "Verns" out here.

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Garry Blankenship's avatar

My admiration for Hestand. In particular his sage advice for our youth; be yourself. Growing up, physically, socially and mentally is a formidable challenge. I have long marveled at this predisposition of fledgling humans to all display some identical fashion in an effort to show individuality. Young roosters and I once was one specifically. During my turn it was skin tight black tapered pants and peroxided hair. The baggy pants worn low enough to trip along with the big watch chain was fun to watch. The ironic message being I am so unique that my buddies and I all look the same. Hestand is spot on. Don't follow the crowd.

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Leo Leblanc's avatar

I want to thank you for "Feel Good Fridays"!!!! and keeping it non-political. We all need a break from the constant political bombardment.

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Jeff Tozzer's avatar

You're welcome. A nice way to end the week :)

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MK's avatar
Mar 21Edited

What a wonderful deal this is for the area kids going off to college. I imagine they are very thankful for the direct support the local community provides them. I've heard of other people who in their later years deeply recognize generous acts such as this. I hope that it applies to trade schools as well given how that's an integral component to what makes America tick behind the scenes. The next time I drive through Forks I will see it differently and I appreciate that.

Sense of community was something I didn't grow up with. I don't recall any such effort for those wanting to go to college. It's interesting how that lack of that exposure forms you. As such I appreciate reading about those with this deep sense and involvement.

Thank you for sharing this, and more importantly thanks to all the people who are involved at the grass roots level. At a time where we hear so much about what other entities are doing for or against us, I do agree it is up to each of us to act in some way to make a difference in order to improve things and I mean that in a non-political way.

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Denise Lapio's avatar

Very nice article, Jeff. Vern Hestand's talent is unique. A sculptor can visualize concepts into another dimension and bring them to life. A true gift. Next time I drive into Forks, I'll know to look for his art. It's also good to know that Forks is starting to rebound thanks to dedicated efforts and unwavering perseverance of people like Vern. Positive inspiration to start the day.

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John Worthington's avatar

I miss the Loomis tavern middle finger. At least if the Central Kitsap pep bus mooned us at the Pizza Pete they got the middle finger on the way out no matter what.

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Jeff Tozzer's avatar

I hadn't thought of that in years, John!!!!

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Leo Leblanc's avatar

Would you happen to know where that awesome piece of Norhtwest art ended up???

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John Worthington's avatar

But I bet North Kitsap, Central Kitsap, South Kitsap and Bremerton wished they had one. He could sell them like hotcakes.

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John Worthington's avatar

I don't.

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Randy Walterson's avatar

Yes and Yes ! Not the Lennon imagine, but you imagine the world the way you want it !

That is real power! Co- Creating with the logos ! Make it happen ! It is done !

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John Bungo's avatar

Great information. Looking forward to experiencing Raincon.

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Billy T Wilson's avatar

Awesome

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Pamela Roberts's avatar

I love this message about nurturing our youth. My email signature states:

Inspiring students to become the great thinkers and leaders of tomorrow.

This artist is committed to doing that in spades.

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John Worthington's avatar

Git yer genuine Loomis Tavern middle finger. While supplies last.

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John Worthington's avatar

He couldn't make enough middle fingers.

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Kathy Bare's avatar

I love Forks. Great Community.

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No One Important's avatar

Thank you for the heartwarming story, Jeff! You rock!

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Jeff Tozzer's avatar

Road trip to visit Vern in Forks!

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