Volunteers Needed for City of Camas Community Advisory Committee

Camas, WA —The City of Camas is seeking volunteers for a new Community Advisory Committee who will support the development of the City’s new strategic plan, which will envision and guide the City’s priorities for the next five years. Interested applicants can visit https://engagecamas.com/city-of-camas-strategic-plan-community-advisory-committee to learn more about the role and apply. The application deadline is Monday, Aug. 5.

The role of the Community Advisory Committee will be to advise on the process and plan for developing the vision and priorities for the next strategic plan. The CAC will:

  • Serve as an ambassador to the community soliciting input and encouraging involvement in the strategic
  • planning process
  • Review community engagement findings and develop themes to inform our planning
  • Participate in developing the vision, values, priority areas, goals and measures of success for the strategic plan
  • Provide recommendations on the strategic plan to the City of Camas Council and Administration for consideration
  • Seek input from other City of Camas Advisory Committees

The CAC will be composed of no more than 17 members representing a diverse array of professional backgrounds, lived experience and insights as to the future of the City of Camas. Committee members are also expected to attend five total meetings from September 2024 to February of 2025.

More information is available at www.engagecamas.com

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Congressional Candidate Lewallen Barnstorms State During Weekend Tour

Camas, WA — This weekend, Leslie Lewallen, candidate for Washington’s Third Congressional District, barnstormed Southwest Washington, meeting hundreds of voters in every corner of the district. Following the tour, Lewallen released the following statement:

“This weekend, we visited more than twenty communities in the Third Congressional District, traveling between every corner of the district and holding meet and greets, visiting local businesses, farmers markets, restaurants, breweries, and festivals. On the trail, I am hearing one consistent message from voters – they are ready for a Conservative leader who they can trust to fight with President Trump and get stuff done in Washington. The Third Congressional District can’t trust Joe Kent, but they can trust me.”

What issues are Lewallen’s top priorities?

I am running for Congress in Washington’s third congressional district to bring sanity back to our crime-ridden streets, our schools, and our economy. When I’m elected, I will focus on securing the border and restoring law and order, putting parents in the driver’s seat of their children’s education, getting our country back on track, and making America affordable again.

You can learn more about Lewallen’s campaign at www.leslieforwashington.com

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Why Entrepreneurs Are Choosing Modern Construction Solutions

Prefabricate metal buildings with steel frames are quickly become a top choice for business owners wanting a modern construction. Their durability, flexibility, and custom options make them an ideal choice for just about any business. Let’s find out why entrepreneurs are choosing prefab metal buildings instead of traditional wood and brick structures.

The Benefits of Operating a Business Out of a Pre-engineered Metal Building

There are many perks of running a business pre-fab building. These steel-framed structures have greater structural strength than most other materials. Cost-effective and weather-resistant, these buildings can be constructed quickly, require little maintenance, and are highly resilient to extreme weather conditions.

Typically, parts to construct the building are delivered at one time, and they can be put together by a team rather quickly. These pre-engineered kits can be erected by a small crew so labor costs are minimal and operations can start sooner. This means less worry and stress for owners and management.

Due to the solid, rust-free, and corrosion resistance of metal and steel, prefabricated buildings are easy to maintain. These structures do not have to face the same type of wear and tear that a wood structure does, which is something that small business owners in particular can appreciate.

Pre-Engineered Metal Buildings Offer Multiple Custom Design Options

The developments in steel and metal structures as of late have made an array of things that can be done concerning pre-engineereed metal building choices in design, size, and customization. Not only can these buildings serve as storage facilities, garage repair facilities, places of worship, and smaller fabrication plants, but they can be designed to have entry doors and windows to welcome customers. One building can be designed to serve a variety of purposes and functions.

Cutting Cost and Boosting Green Building

When you choose a prefabricated building kit, putting it together is easier and reduces labor costs and the need for equipment. This allows for a more eco-friendly construction process and saves money. The prefab concept makes putting together metal buildings rather eco-conscious and lets you lessen your carbon footprint beyond construction.

The return on investment doesn’t end there. These prefab metal buildings offer owners increased energy efficiency. Energy expenses are a major component of overhead that many owners battle each month. However, prefabs can be crafted as air-tight structures that can include insulation, making them effective energy expense minimizers.

Additional cost savings come in the form of low-profile roofs and colors that can lower energy use. Furthermore, those who opt for customization can choose a cool roof system that helps dissipate the sun’s heat. Furthermore, these buildings are strong and not susceptible to many external elements. Along with the minimal maintenance these structures combined, consider a prefab for current or new business.

Looking to Make a Change or Start Up a Business?

If you are ready for an affordable, resilient, and environmentally friendly construction solution, there are ways to go about it. Pre-fabricated metal buildings offer endless possibilities for entrepreneurs and managers alike.

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Fandoms to Unite at 2nd Annual Camas Comic Con Coming Aug. 2

Camas, WA — The second annual Camas Comic Con themed First Friday invites everyone with a love of pop culture to come together for an evening of family friendly photo ops, cosplay, art activities, games and more. Lovers of comics, sci-fi, anime, Disney, Harry Potter, fantasy, and anything else that inspires fandom are all welcome. The event takes place on Friday, August 2nd, from 5 pm-8 pm and is hosted by the Downtown Camas Association (DCA).

Start your evening at the DCA tables inside Journey, 304 NE 4th, to pick up your Camas Comic Con Passport & Activity list and head out for all the fun. The first 300 people will receive a limited edition 2024 Camas Comic Con lanyard, and the first 50 kids to check in will receive a free copy of the graphic novel Star Beasts, donated by local PDX comic publisher Oni Press. The themed “Fandom Fun!” passport activity has fandom trivia and puzzles throughout downtown businesses and you enter to win prizes for every location you visit.

The PDX Ghostbusters, a donation-based charity cosplay group, will be hosting a slime-making activity for kids of all ages. This activity has been generously sponsored by 4Ever Growing Kids Children’s Consignment Boutique. PDX Ghostbusters will also be bringing their Ecto-1S, a replica of the car used in the Ghostbusters movies. Find the Ghostbusters from 5 pm-8 pm outside 4Ever Growing Kids at 440 NE 4th Avenue.

Other Camas Comic Con activities include:

  • Check out the Creative Corner inside Fuel Medical, 314 NE Birch. Learn to draw in the Kawaii (Japanese for cute) style, make a Thumbprint Character and learn tips from local working comic book artist Samuel Staples.
  • Wandering Photo Ops with the  501st Star Wars Legion of Oregon
  • Play the “Find your Fandom” game throughout town–take selfies with other characters from your fandom and share them when you turn in your passport to enter to win a special comic con themed prize.
  • Gamora from Guardians of the Galaxy Cos Play Photo Op in Journey
  • Enjoy the life sized TARDIS from Doctor Who, in front of the Liberty Theatre, 315 NE 4th Ave
  • Fandom Pin Trading sponsored by the DCAinside the lobby at Fuel Medical while supplies last. Participants will each receive 5 free fandom pins to trade or keep. Attendees are encouraged to trade pins with participants throughout downtown during the event.
  • “Walk the Red Carpet” Photo Op inside the Journey Auditorium, hosted by Journey volunteers
  • Light Saber Lessons and comic book art activity with the talented people at Torchsong Entertainment

Other First Friday activities include:

  • 2 Ribbon Cuttings & Grand Openings in the newly remodeled historic Adeline building with live music, refreshments and superhero themed giveaways for all ages:
  • Art Shows & Receptions at Gallery 408, 408 NE 4th; RedDoor Gallery, 411 NE Dallas; and Juxtaposition, 425 NE 4th
  • Shopping and Dining Specials and live music throughout Downtown Camas 

“Our first Camas Comic Con exceeded all of our expectations, and we can’t wait to bring it back for a second year!” says Leah Nichelson, Event Manager for the DCA. “Seeing all the different fandoms unite and share their passions is very heartwarming. From Anime to Star Wars, Disney to Ghostbusters, Marvel to Doctor Who, there’s a fan for every pop culture phenomenon, and we want them all to come and geek out together in Downtown Camas for Camas Comic Con First Friday! The night also includes grand opening celebrations, amazing art shows, after hours shopping and live music—something for everyone!”

First Fridays are family-friendly themed Art, Activities, Dining, and After-Hours Shopping events coordinated by the DCA each month to bring the community together and to help the town thrive. For all the information, visit https://downtowncamas.com/event/camas-comic-con and www.facebook.com/camasfirstfriday. To sign up for the weekly DCA newsletter that shares all the things happening in downtown, visit https://downtowncamas.com/newsletter-signup

Camas Comic Con
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3rd Congressional District Candidate Lewallen Responds to Endorsement

Camas, WA — Third District Congressional candidate and Camas City Councilor, Leslie Lewallen, a Republican, was recently endorsed by The Columbian.

Lewallen answered Lacamas Magazine questions about the endorsement.

1) What are your thoughts about this op-ed?

I am honored to have the endorsement of The Columbian. This is proof that the more people learn about my campaign, the more they support us! 

2) The Columbian says your GOP opponent flip flops on his views. Do you agree with that assessment? If so, can you point out some of this flip flops?

Southwest Washington families can’t trust Joe Kent. His views change with the breeze and he is more concerned about getting to Congress for his own personal gain. Don’t forget that he has said he wants to defund the police and supports Medicare for All. 

I’m different – I saw a problem in my community and I got to work fixing it on the Camas City Council and will continue that fight in Congress. 

3) The Columbian says you’re delivering for Washington. Please elaborate on that.

As a sitting Camas City Councilor, I’ve worked tirelessly to balance the needs of the city with the desires of its citizens. People are worried by rising prices, our wide-open southern border, and the homelessness crisis impacting our communities. On the City Council, I’ve fought for Southwest Washington to stop our out-of-control spending, put more money into families pockets, and stop the fentanyl epidemic destroying our community. 

4) Why are you the better poised to face Congresswoman Marie Glusenkamp Perez in the general election?

Marie Glusenkamp Perez is anti-parent, anti-small business, anti-police and pro-Antifa. She even said that no one is worried about our southern border crisis. But people are worried. I heard first-hand at my town hall on Washington’s fentanyl crisis from families that have lost children and loved one’s from drugs crossing our southern border. In November, we have to elect a fighter with a proven track record of success and I know I’m the right woman for the job. I love Southwest Washington and our community deserves better. 

Unfortunately, my opponent lost in 2022 and he will lose again in November. History is not on Joe’s side. There has been no federal rematches with a flipped outcome in the past 30 years. Lots of Republicans don’t believe him and don’t trust him. They think he is too extreme and don’t understand his values. I’m the only conservative in this race. 

5) What issues are your top priorities?

I am running for Congress in Washington’s third congressional district to bring sanity back to our crime-ridden streets, our schools, and our economy. When I’m elected, I will focus on securing the border and restoring law and order, putting parents in the driver’s seat of their children’s education, getting our country back on track, and making America affordable again.

You can learn more about Lewallen’s campaign at www.leslieforwashington.com

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Three Washougal Schools Receive State Recognition for Outstanding Achievement

Washougal, WA — In June 2024, the Office of Superintendent of Public Instruction (OSPI) announced that three Washougal schools are being recognized for academic growth and closing opportunity gaps in the 2022-23 and 2021-22 school years. Canyon Creek Middle School, Columbia River Gorge Elementary School, and Washougal Learning Academy are recognized for the 2022-23 school year. Canyon Creek Middle School is also being honored for fostering student academic growth in the 2021-22 school year.

All three schools were recognized for academic growth. The Washington School Recognition Program measures growth based on outstanding year-to-year improvement in Smarter Balanced Assessment Consortium (SBAC) standardized test proficiency, graduation rates, attendance rates, and other student success measurements. Across all Washougal schools in 2022-23, Washougal School District saw year-to-year improvement in 70% of the subjects and grades tested in the SBAC.

Canyon Creek Middle School (CCMS) is one of just 104 schools recognized for both the 2022-23 and 2021-22 academic years. CCMS was honored for demonstrating substantial improvements for student groups most in need of support. 

In the 2022-23 school year, Washougal students outperformed the state average in 82% of the subjects and grades tested in the SBAC. CCMS outperformed the Washington State average in 2022-23 in all three subjects tested: 31.5% points in science, 16% points in English Language Arts, and 7.2% points in math.

“This recognition shows how dedicated our teachers, students, and community are to making academic progress and closing opportunity gaps. We’re determined to continue this positive trajectory into the new school year,” said Aaron Hansen, Interim Superintendent at Washougal School District for the 2024-25 school year.

Canyon Creek Middle School, Columbia River Gorge Elementary School, and Washougal Learning Academy will each receive a recognition banner to display in their buildings. 

OSPI has partnered with the State Board of Education (SBE) and Educational Opportunity Gap Oversight and Accountability Committee (EOGOAC) for years to identify and recognize schools for the Washington School Recognition Program. For the 2021-22 and 2022-23 school years, 571 public schools in 178 school districts across Washington state have earned this honor. Learn more about the Washington School Recognition Program and view a full list of schools receiving recognition on the SBE website.

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Camas Days 2024: ‘America the Beautiful’ Schedule of Events

Here is the schedule of events for Camas Days 2024, which is organized by the Camas-Washougal Chamber of Commerce. 

July, Friday 26th & Saturday July 27th 

Sponsored by Georgia Pacific – Camas Mill, Waste Connections, TSMC Washington, Columbia Credit Union, Vancouver Clinic, Ziply Fiber, The Columbian Newspaper, You Move Me, Bath Planet, Santa’s 3D Toys, Fiber Federal Mortgage Company, The Red Door, Minuteman Press Camas, Sip & Paint for Fun, Art Farm, Camas Boutique Hotel, Camas Light Brigade, The Camas-Washougal Post Record, City of Camas and the Camas-Washougal Chamber of Commerce. 

SCHEDULE OF EVENTS

THURSDAY, July 25th

6:30 pm – 8:30 pm CONCERT IN THE PARK @ Dorothy Fox Elementary 

FRIDAY, July 26th

10 am – 8 pm VENDOR BOOTHS OPEN Six City blocks, downtown Camas. Handmade crafts, gifts, food and more!

10 am – 8 pm FOOD BOOTHS Birch between 3rd and 4th Avenue. 

Come enjoy traditional festival fair favorites! 

11 am – 7 pm KIDS STREET: 50ft inflatable slide, obstacle course, games and more on Dallas & 4th.

11:30 am KIDS PARADE LINE UP & JUDGING: In front of City Hall, 4th & Franklin.

12:15 pm KIDS PARADE BEGINS

5 pm – 11 pm BEER & WINE GARDEN. On Birch Street, between 4th & 5th. Live Music! Blues rock & classic rock all evening long! $8 entry at the door, 21 and over only. 

Entertainment: 5:00 – 7:00 The Beth Willis Band & 7:00- 10:30: The Caddies.

SATURDAY, July 27th

10 am – 8 pm VENDOR BOOTHS OPEN Six City blocks, downtown Camas. Handmade crafts, gifts food and more!

10 am – 8 pm FOOD BOOTHS Birch between 3rd and 4th Avenue. 

Come enjoy traditional festival fair favorites!

USED BOOK SALE at the Camas Library Friday 10am-6pm, Saturday 10am-6pm and Sunday 10am to 3pm. 

11 am – 7 pm KIDS STREET: 50ft inflatable slide, obstacle course, games and more on Dallas & 4th.

11 am CAMAS DAYS GRAND PARADE – “America the Beautiful” themed parade! 4th Avenue, Oak to Adams. 

Immediately following the grand parade – SENIOR ROYALTY LUNCHEON honoring Camas Days’ Royalty at Zion Lutheran Social Hall 3rd and Garfield. 

1 pm BATHTUB RACES 4th & Franklin. Sign up sheet is on the Chamber website.

5 pm – 11 pm BEER & WINE GARDEN. On Birch Street, between 4th & 5th. Live Music! Blues rock & classic rock all evening long! $8 entry at the door, 21 and over only. 

Entertainment: 5:00 – 7:00: The Beth Willis Band & 7:00- 10:30: The Caddies

SUNDAY, July 28th

8 am – 7 pm ANNUAL SOFTBALL TOURNAMENT, contact Scott Purkeypyle, 360-606-9877, or Rick Copsey, 360-909-7941.  

11 am – 4 pm PICNIC IN COLOR: Held in downtown Camas on Cedar between 4th and 5th Avenue. Hosted by the Downtown Camas Association. 

Noon DUCKY DERBY drawing at the Picnic in Color!

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Two Dead, Including an Apparent Shooter, at Trump Rally in Pennsylvania

Former president Donald Trump was rushed off the stage at a campaign rally in Butler, PA after shots were heard minutes after the rally began. Trump was having his audience look at a large screen to his right, explaining data, when he put his hand to his right ear and ducked after the first of several pops. Secret Service agents surrounded him and took him off the stage, his face streaked with what appeared to be blood. Trump raised his fist a couple times shouting “fight, fight, fight,” before being taken by Secret Service to a local hospital.

Butler County District Attorney Richard Goldinger said two people are dead, including the apparent shooter, according to the Associated Press.

The Secret Service said “the former president is safe.” Trump’s campaign said he is being treated.

Many witnesses heard several shots.

This was Trump’s last rally before the Republican National Convention begins in Milwaukee, WI on Monday. There was also speculation Trump was going to name his Vice Presidential pick this evening.

Former President Barack Obama said: “There is absolutely no place for political violence in our democracy. Although we don’t yet know exactly what happened, we should all be relieved that former President Trump wasn’t seriously hurt, and use this moment to recommit ourselves to civility and respect in our politics. Michelle and I are wishing him a quick recovery.”

House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries (D-N.Y.) posted on social media that he was sending his “thoughts and prayers” to former president Trump.

“I am thankful for the decisive law enforcement response. America is a democracy. Political violence of any kind is never acceptable,” he tweeted.

Presidential candidate Robert F. Kennedy said: ”Now is the time for every American who loves our country to step back from the division, renounce all violence, and unite in prayer for President Trump and his family.”

Photo credit: NBC News

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Camas Parks & Rec’s Tots to Teens Tuesday Kicking Off July 23

Camas, WA — Camas Parks & Recreation is once again partnering with Columbia Play Project to bring exploratory play spaces for the young and young-at-heart. 

Tots to Teens Tuesdays (formerly Family Fun Fridays) kicks off this popular series Tuesday, July 23 at Noon, at Goot Park in Camas.

The events will feature ongoing, at-will activities that may include exploratory play, toys, giant bubbles, stomp rockets, chalk art and more. 

The series will then continue on specific Tuesdays in July and August, from Noon – 2 p.m., taking place at a different Camas Park each week.  These free activities are kid-friendly and offer drop-in and free play options. 

  • July 23               Goot Park, 303 SE Zenith St. 
  • August 6            Louis Bloch Park, 160 NE Joy St.
  • August 13          Dorothy Fox Park, 2023 NW 23rd Ave.
  • August 20          Forest Home Park, 640 NW Logan St.              

No registration is required for this free event series. 

For more information on the annual Tots to Teens Tuesdays series, visit www.cityofcamas.us/parksrec and click on the Special Events button, or call 360-834-5307.

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Washougal Police Department Announces Leadership Transition

Chief Wendi Steinbronn To Retire December 2024; Captain Zane Freschette Assumes Leadership Role in January 2025

After 31 years of dedicated service to the community as a law enforcement professional, including 5 years in Washougal, Chief Wendi Steinbronn has announced her retirement from the Washougal Police Department, effective December 31, 2024. Chief Steinbronn has been an integral part of the department’s growth and success, leaving a lasting legacy of commitment and professionalism.

“I have decided to retire after many fulfilling years in law enforcement. I have cherished my time here and will deeply miss our incredible team, and I am immensely proud of our achievements,” commented Chief Steinbronn.

In her tenure as chief, Steinbronn has overseen numerous initiatives aimed at enhancing public safety and community relations in Washougal. Specifically, these achievements include departmental accreditation, the successful implementation of body-worn camera and drone programs, establishing National Night Out as an annual event, and the recent strategic operational review that has charted the department’s path forward.

“We are grateful for Chief Steinbronn’s outstanding service and leadership throughout her tenure,” said City Manager David Scott. “Her contributions have made a significant impact on the safety and well-being of our community, and we wish her and her husband the best as they enter this new phase of life.”

Chief Steinbronn and her husband, a retired Portland Police officer, plan to embark on a new chapter as empty nesters. They are eagerly anticipating more time for travel, golf, and house projects.

Captain Zane Freschette to Take On Role of Chief

City Manager David Scott announced today that he is promoting Captain Zane Freschette to assume leadership upon Chief Steinbronn’s retirement.

“I am pleased to promote Captain Freschette. He is ready to assume the chief role, and I have every confidence that he will successfully lead the team at Washougal Police as they serve our community into the future,” said Scott. “He has strong support from City leadership and the entire police department.”

Captain Freschette brings nearly two decades of experience within the department, having excelled in roles such as detective, patrol sergeant, administrative sergeant and captain. His tenure has demonstrated exceptional leadership and a deep understanding of community policing. He also recently graduated as a member of the 289th session of the FBI National Academy. He is the first officer in department history to complete this prestigious program. Nationally, fewer than one percent of officers have the opportunity to attend the program.

In endorsing Captain Freschette to lead the department, Steinbronn emphasized, “Throughout my career, leadership development has been my passion, and I have prioritized succession planning from day one. I am delighted that Captain Freschette will be at the helm of the department. He is a remarkable leader with an unwavering commitment to our mission. I have learned as much from him as I hope he has learned from me, and I am forever grateful for the trust placed in me by the city and community to guide the Washougal Police Department toward a secure and vibrant future.”

Captain Freschette expressed his gratitude for the opportunity to lead the Washougal Police Department, saying “I am deeply honored to step into the role of Washougal’s next Chief of Police. I am eager to collaborate with Chief Steinbronn during our remaining time together and build upon her legacy as we move the department forward. Our team is exceptional, and it is a privilege to serve alongside them. I am enthusiastic about the opportunity to uphold safety and trust in Washougal, working closely with our community and the dedicated members of the Washougal Police Department.”

The transition from Chief Steinbronn to Chief Freschette will be smooth, ensuring consistent service and dedication to the people of Washougal. The department remains committed to public safety, community engagement, and maintaining professional excellence.

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