Welcome to the home page of musician, writer, speaker, amateur photographer, world traveler, IT specialist, amateur ballroom dancer, and karaoke aficionado, Toby Loftus.
IT Professional – those interested in my professional experience may view my LinkedIn Profile.
Writer – I write for several blogs. One features stories about my Japanese American heritage and trips I’ve made to Japan. Another focuses on my extraordinary experience studying in the former East Germany. Click here to see my most recent posts. Here is a list of my various blogs.
Speaker – Following in my mother’s footsteps, I give presentations on Japanese American incarceration during World War II. My mom was a 4th grader when she and her family were forced from their home and into concentration camps for three years. Click here see my calendar of events. A new edition of my mother’s memoir has just been published by OSU Press. Click here to read about it and see scheduled talks and book signing events.
To see recordings of talks my mom and I have given as well as my regularly-updated list of resources on the topic of Japanese American incarceration, click here.
Musician – I play viola and several other instruments. I have performed with the Newport Symphony for over 20 years. I compose, arrange, and sing. Buy my works, link to videos, and view my performance calendar.
Photographer – A fair number of my photographs can be viewed in my various blogs as well as on my private Instagram account.
Platelet Superdonor – I donate blood platelets … a lot. I just surpassed 400 units of blood product donated and continue to donate, sometimes every week. If you are eligible, you should consider donating platelets. I’d be happy to join you! To learn more about platelets and why I donate them, click here.
Amateur Ballroom Dancer – After a 20+ year hiatus, I am getting back into ballroom dancing. I primarily have been attending classes and dances hosted by my teacher of 27+ years ago, Linda Springstead. She teaches in Aloha and Parkrose. You can see her website and schedule here.
Karaoke Aficionado – Since the start of the pandemic I’ve hosted online karaoke parties (50 and counting). These online karaoke parties were featured on local TV news, a vlog, and a podcast. I’ve also created a website explaining how you can host online karaoke parties yourself.