Featured Archives - Page 21 of 122

Construction Safety Tips to Consider for Summer Worksites

If you’re working in the construction sector during the summer, especially if you’re handling large machinery, it is important that you know all the details of every piece of equipment and the construction safety tips. It’s also imperative that everyone on the construction site knows how to run large machinery and handle any issues that may arise. Staying safe during the hot summer months means understanding and controlling the risks of extreme heat and heat-related illnesses. Here are some tips to help you conduct your construction work without difficulties and keep your machinery functioning properly during the summer.

1. Inspect the Drain Filters of Your Excavators

If you do not regularly check the drain filter of your machinery, especially during the summer, you could endanger it. Over 90 percent of premature excavator failures are due to a clogged drain filter. If your machine’s final drive drain filter is clogged, fix the issue early. You can get experienced professionals to help you unclog your machine’s drain filters.

2. Stay Up-To-Date With Safety Precautions

Stay on top of safety measures in the construction industry to avoid serious problems. The construction industry usually develops measures that ensure the safety of workers during different seasons. For instance, when summer arrives, workers will be advised on what to wear, how to stay healthy, and how to avoid the heat.

3. Keep Water Everywhere

Plenty of water near you is an excellent way to protect yourself from heat illness during hot weather. Ensure you drink water frequently to avoid dehydration. This water will keep your body from dehydrating and overheating. The more you drink water, the healthier you are. Ensure you drink water instead of other drinks such as soda, energy drinks, or other beverages.

4. Eat Healthy Foods

Heavy and high-fat foods will leave you feeling potentially nauseous and bloated, which is not good with extreme temperatures. Opt for lighter meals that will keep you active during the hottest part of the day. Eat sandwiches and fruits instead of French fries and a greasy burger.

5. Dress to Beat the Heat

You work in a construction zone, so you should wear protective garments to protect you from the heat and potentially hazardous environment. It is best to choose lightweight safety clothing in the summer; it provides free air movement and prevents heat from being trapped in your garments. Also, ensure you have a sunscreen to protect your skin. You can use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with UVB and UVA protection and a significant sun protection factor (SPF).

6. Plan Your Job’s Timing

It is best to plan a job only when the heat isn’t as intense. Arrange your work for the morning and evening hours. If you have outdoor and indoor work, plan the outdoor jobs in the morning and the indoor work in the afternoon. You can easily tackle the tough tasks when you’re still fresh and the rest when the sun begins to set.

Final Word

Summer is the best season for construction work because the weather is mostly predictable and pleasant. Still, when working during the summer, it is important to be mindful of the heat. You should take plenty of fluids, eat healthy meals, wear protective gear, get a good night’s sleep, and work when the heat is not intense to protect yourself from heatstroke, exhaustion, and sunburns.

By: Katherine Robinson, a writer for MiniFinalDrives

July 20, 2023/0 Comments/by Ernest Geigenmiller

Culture, Featured

Annual Camas Summer Concerts in the Park Series Continues

Camas, WA — For the 29^th year, Camas Parks & Recreation is set to host the popular Summer Concerts in the Park series in Crown Park, with a few additional musical performances popping up at other venues. Our Summer Concerts offer family-friendly performances in a variety of musical styles.

The free Summer Concerts in the Park will take place Thursdays in July, with concerts taking place the 13 and 20 from 6:30 pm – 8:30 pm at Crown Park, located at 120 NE 17^th Ave.

On Thursday, July 27, the music turns into a fun DJ/radio format to kick off the celebration at the Riverside Skatepark Grand Re-opening. Additional pop-up concerts will take place August 8 at Crown Park and August 15 at Fallen Leaf Lake Park.

Pa’Lante with their fiery salsa and Latin jazz will be the featured show July 13. On July 20, Shades of Huey brings your favorite Huey Lewis and the News music to the stage. Then, July 27, we move to the Riverside Skatepark to celebrate the re-design and grand re-opening with SameWave Radio (special time from 4- 7 pm.). August 8 will take us to Crown Park to hear The June Bugs for their crowd-loving high energy pop music blended with a folksy sound. And, if you loved attending last year’s concert at Fallen Leaf Lake Park, we’ll be returning there August 15 with the 4 Kings playing their soul-jazz and groove sounds.

Natalia’s Too! food concession will be available at most of the concerts. You can support your local restaurants by purchasing take-out meals from a variety of Downtown Camas restaurants or from Top Burger, located across the street from the park. Picnic dinners are always welcome.

The Summer Concerts in the Park series is coordinated by Camas Parks and Recreation. The concerts are offered to the public for free due to the generous support and sponsorships from Riverview Community Bank and Camas Parks Foundation.

No alcohol, dogs or other animals are allowed in the park. For concert details, closer to the events, visit www.cityofcamas.us/parksrec and click on “Special Events.”

July 20, 2023/0 Comments/by Ernest Geigenmiller

Art, Culture, Featured

New Comic Con Theme Brings Fandom to Downtown Camas First Friday

Camas, WA – The organizers of First Fridays in Downtown Camas are excited to bring you a new and colorful First Friday theme for August. “Camas Comic Con” will take place on August 4, 5 pm-8 pm and will celebrate fandom of many different pop culture phenomena for an evening of photo ops, cosplay, special guests, games, art, crafts, interactive activities and more. Fandom will include comics, sci-fi, cosplay, anime, Disney, fantasy, and everything in between. If you are a fan of it, it counts! This free event has something for all ages and is organized and hosted by the Downtown Camas Association(DCA).

Start your evening at the DCA tables inside Journey, 304 NE 4^th to pick up your Camas Comic Con Passport & Activity list. The first 500 people to check in will receive a free Jonna and the Unpossible Monsters comic book, donated by local PDX comic publisher Oni Press. Family friendly costumes are highly encouraged for this event. Attendees will each get a Comic Con Costume bingo card to try to complete throughout the evening, with categories like Marvel, DC, Disney, Ghostbusters, Star Wars, Star Trek, Anime and more. Secret costume judges will be wandering throughout downtown, giving out chances to win a special prize to those who go above and beyond with their Comic Con cosplay attire.

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 5pm-8pm outside 4Ever Growing Kids at 440 NE 4^th.

Other Camas Comic Con First Friday activities include:

“Fandom Fun!” Passport Activity with fandom trivia and puzzles throughout downtown businesses–enter to win prizes for every location you visit.
Collectible Lanyards for the first 300 people to check in. These 2023 Camas Comic Con lanyards and badges are sponsored by these downtown businesses: 4Ever Growing Kids, Mandi MOON Artistry, The Wild Hair, PNW Financial Concierge, Sweet Intention Gift Boutique, LiveWell Camas and Juxtaposition.
Speed Pin Trading sponsored by the DCA inside the lobby at Fuel Medical from 5pm-7pm or while supplies last. Participants will each receive 5 free fandom pins to start and will check out new pins on 10 different display boards—you will have 30 seconds at each board to trade a pin or pass!
Light Saber Lessons and comic book art activity from the talented people at Torchsong Entertainment
Kawaii Doodle Challenge–learn to draw a “Kawaii” (Japanese for cute) style doodle and get a free chibi style Joe Papermaker sticker, designed by local artist and recent WHS graduate Stella Van Horn
Selfie Stations throughout downtown, with themes like Marvel, Pop Art, Disney, and more
Checkout the new “Book Bike” brought to us for this event from the Camas Public Library.
Wandering Photo Ops with the 501^st Star Wars Legion of Oregon
FREE themed Kids’ Craft at LiveWell Camas, 417 NE Birch, from 5-8pm with Girl Scout Troop #47503
Art Shows & Receptions at Attic Gallery, 421 NE Cedar; Camas Gallery, 408 NE 4^th; Pike Art Gallery, 302 NE 6^th; and the Second Story Gallery, 625 NE 4^th
Shopping and Dining Specials throughout Downtown Camas

“The excitement for the first Camas Comic Con themed First Friday is palpable in Downtown Camas!” says Leah Nichelson, Event and Project Manager for the DCA. “Every First Friday invites people to dress up, but we can’t wait to see creativity come alive with people cosplaying as superhero, Disney, Star Wars, Star Trek, anime, and other possibly unexpected pop culture characters! Merchants will offer later shopping hours, and event goers can enjoy special one night only outdoor dining at certain downtown restaurants, all while celebrating the fandoms that bring them joy.”

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, visit https://downtowncamas.com/newsletter-signup

July 20, 2023/0 Comments/by Ernest Geigenmiller

Art, Culture, Featured

Copper Artist David Gerton Participates in Prairie ART FEST July 29-30

The fourth annual Fern Prairie ART FEST is a two-day event connecting local artists and the community on Saturday and Sunday, July 29-30 from 10 am to 4 pm. The ART FEST is staged in the peaceful and tranquil setting of Shangri-La Farm, located 1.5 miles north of Lacamas Lake just outside the city limits of Camas, Washington. A total of 13 artist booths will be featured in the juried show. This event is free to the public.

Thirteen artists are excited to show and sell their work at ART FEST including copper artist David Gerton. “I work in Mixed Media using a base of Copper-foil, Alcohol Ink and other coloring media under Crystal Resin. I concentrate on wildlife and the natural world,” said David Gerton. Gerton will be joined by artists Sarah Bang, Bev Birdwell, Matthew Clarkson, Cheryl Folkers, Dave Garbot, Charlene Hale, Amy Jan Ernst, Cheryl Mathieson, Keith Russell, Liz Pike, Hiroko Stumpf, and Roxanne Turley. Original work includes paintings in oils, acrylics and watercolor, pastels, mixed media, pottery, fused and enamel glass, jewelry, pen and ink, and copper mixed media.

New to the Fern Prairie ART FEST this year is a Camas-Washougal Chamber of Commerce sponsored Mini- Wine and Beer Garden and Diamond Dogs.

The public is invited to take in original works of art surrounded by the beautiful gardens at Shangri-La Farm. Attendees will park at rented Grove Field Airport parking lot, 632 NE 267th Avenue, Camas, WA. Guests may either walk the 1/4 mile trail through the woods to Shangri-La Farm or take the free “Sunflower Mobile” shuttle service.

The Sunflower Mobile is an art piece all on its own, hand painted by Liz Pike in oils on fiberglass in her signature sunflower motif. The free shuttle will be available to transport attendees from the airport parking lot to Shangri-La Farm on both days, Saturday and Sunday, July 29 and 30 between 10am and 4pm.

July 20, 2023/0 Comments/by Ernest Geigenmiller

Featured, Local, News

Washougal Educator Wins Teacher of the Year, Embraces Job-Readiness Lessons

Washougal, WA — As the school year comes to a close, 2024 Regional Teacher of the Year Donna Schatz prepares students to apply tangible job-readiness skills in her engineering class at Washougal High School. Schatz was recently recognized as 2024 Regional Teacher of the Year by ESD 112 for her adaptability, understanding, and creative application of classroom skills to solve real world problems.

Students in Schatz’s class are creating their own proposals for managing stormwater runoff issues in the Washougal High School student parking lot. Kyle Rogers, local architect and internship program director at LSW Architects in Vancouver, visited the class to discuss design proposals with the students. Schatz develops these partnerships to bring job opportunities into the classroom.

“The most valuable part of this project is that students feel a sense of ownership over their school and a purpose to their work,” said Schatz.

The project exposes students to real world applications for classroom work. “We’re creating rough draft proposals to add more green infrastructure to the parking lot, because the parking lot isn’t draining correctly and a bunch of parking spots aren’t usable when it rains because a huge puddle forms,” said Abraham White.

Students get creative to propose modern and realistic solutions to the problem at hand.

“We’re looking at how adding permeable surfaces and plants can help the parking lot to drain better,” said Emylie Guido.

Students complete this work in the classroom and outdoors on class visits to analyze the parking lot site. As the district begins planning processes with the City of Washougal and the Lower Columbia Estuary Partnership, these student proposals will provide some insight to student perspectives on the future of the Washougal High School student parking lot.

Schatz designs learning activities that are scaffolded, engaging, and relevant to both the students and the content standards. Engineering is one of many Career & Technical Education (CTE) course options available at Washougal High School. CTE combines technical, leadership, employability and academic skills to prepare students for success in education and in life. Students can learn about STEM careers as early as 7th grade continuing through high school in engineering, applied math and computer science classes or explore one of the nine other career clusters offered at Washougal High School.

Washougal — Architect Kyle Rogers helps in the classroom.

June 23, 2023/0 Comments/by Ernest Geigenmiller

Business, Featured, News

Camas-Washougal Chamber Honors Citizen, Business Person, Educators of the Year

Washougal, WA — The Camas-Washougal Chamber of Commerce held its annual awards banquet Tuesday honoring the Citizen, Business Persons, and Educators of the Years, as well as student scholarship recipients. Held at the Orchard Hills Golf Club, Executive Director Jennifer Senescu emceed the program.

2023 Citizen of the Year: Pat Suggs

Contributions to the Community: Suggs has served the Camas-Washougal community for 47 years. During that time, she also raised six daughters. She was a volunteer teacher for the Camas Community Education Program, has been a Brownie and Girl Scout leader and although she doesn’t have boys, she was a Cub Scout leader, as well.

Suggs has been the Young Women’s President at her church and is responsible for all of the 12-18 year olds. She runs a program to enhance the progressive growth of young girls. Suggs was also the Relief Society President at her church where she oversaw the activities of all Latter-Day-Saint (The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints) women ages 18 and over. It is the oldest women’s organization in the United States.

She works on food drives for the community. Including support for the Children’s Home Society of Washington. She also ran their backpack program for over 5 years. Suggs collects cups for Hathaway Elementary Schools Program of Affordable Gifts for Parents as well as clothing and shoes for the Family Resource Program for Washougal School District. Suggs is a Book Fairy, which is a program that provides equitable opportunities for children to learn, grow and thrive.

Today at 74 years old, Suggs is still involved in the community. She serves on the Drug Take Back Program, the Unite Committee, Two Rivers Heritage Museum Committee and is Co-chair on the Washougal Safe Board.

Pat also volunteers at Hathaway Elementary School each week where she helps teach reading and Spanish. And, according to her husband, she does all of these things for one simple reason. Her love of this community.

2023 Businessperson of the Year: Chris Dierickx, Straubs Funeral Home

As the owner of Straubs Funeral home in Camas, Washington, Chris Dierickx has been a member of this community for over 26 years. Dierickx has helped thousands of families during what is one of the the hardest times in their lives. He makes himself available all hours of the day and night. He is genuinely caring and extremely compassionate. In his service, Dierickx wears many hats, including, a shoulder to cry on, guide, rock and a friend to those in need.

The C-W Chamber received a record number nominations for Chris to be named Businessperson of the Year for 2023.

“It is a clear testament to his commitment and work in this community,” said Senescu.

Educators of the Year:

CCMS Science PLC Team at Washougal High School: Ryan Hooser and Patrick Rice

Ryan and Patrick, science teachers at Canyon Creek Middle School, are a high functioning team committed to their collaboration. They use the instructional materials provided through the Amplify curriculum and supplement with hands-on experiments and activities for their students. They spend time in each other’s classrooms learning and brainstorming new ideas on how to create engaging lessons for their classes. Their work, and focus on achievement, has resulted in state assessment scores far higher than the state average for science.

2023 Camas Educators of the Year: Stephanie Eakins and Whitney Patton

Stephanie Eakins and Whitney Patton came together in the Fall of 2021 to restructure and redesign the Adult Transition Program at Camas High School. They work with students aged 18-21 served by Individualized Educational Plans in the newly named Adult Transition Training Center (A.T.T.C.) housed at The Heights Learning Center. Although there may be teams that have worked together for a longer length of time, there is no team more committed to providing a positive and exceptional experience for their students. In the short time they have worked together, they have been able to impact a large number of students and are directly responsible for many of the successes that these young adults have achieved.

Together they are able to motivate and encourage students who would otherwise feel lost within the constraints of the regular curriculum. They work hard at establishing a strong rapport with each individual and their families. Each can always be found going the extra mile that can make a difference for these students. Eakins and Patton both promote community access for their students and work hard to facilitate opportunities that allow them to learn real-world applicable skills that will support them as they move beyond a high school setting.

Eakins and Patton truly believe in the concept of “firm goals, flexible means” as they continually improvise and modify for their students. They see and serve all students and families as they ready them for the transition into the world beyond the public school system.

2023 Camas High School Scholarship Recipient Olivia Brotherton

Brotherton will be attending Oregon State University this fall where she plans on studying biology while she works toward becoming a veterinarian. At Camas High School, she is on The National Honor Society and is involved with the CHS Choir. Brotherton has volunteered with multiple local organizations including Buddy and Food Box Builder. She is involved with St. Joseph’s Church and has served as a Vacation Bible School Counselor. She has also served as an Equestrian Camp Counselor at Cantera Equestrian. Brotherton plans on doing an internship with Next-Vet this summer.

2023 Washougal High School College Scholarship Recipient Carter Nichols

Nichols will be attending Eastern Washington University this Fall where he plans on studying nursing or pre-med. Three years ago, Nichols began as a volunteer at Legacy Salmon Creek Hospital. He spent the summer of 2021 completing a volunteer internship program where he spent 72 hours assisting with discharges, delivering meals and checking in visitors. Since Nichols turned 16, he has been a caregiver in the memory care unit at Touchmark.

Nichols began taking health classes at Cascadia Technical Academy his junior year. He says that is what truly sparked his interest in the medical field. It’s also where he learned that caregivers must be good listeners and empathetic conversationalists.

Nichols is one of five siblings. His mother is a social worker and his father is a Firefighter/paramedic.

June 9, 2023/1 Comment/by Ernest Geigenmiller

Featured

Downtown Homeless Person a Convicted Felon, Spent Time in Jail

Camas, WA — Carmen Copeland, a downtown Camas transient, who has been accused of desecrating US flags, squatting in public spaces, as well as yelling at and slapping pedestrians, has a criminal record dating back several years.

Copeland, 50, a Romanian native, has taken residence in public downtown Camas spaces for at least six months, and according to court documents, was convicted in a jury trial on November 3, 2020 of HARASSMENT – DEATH THREATS and sentenced to 85 days in jail.

Years previous, Copeland and her ex-husband, Mark Copeland, went through a nasty divorce. Mark was represented by attorney and former Camas City Council member, Deanna Rusch, who became the recipient of numerous death threats and harassment initiated by Carmen. In addition to the jail sentence, Carmen was issued a restraining order to never get within 1,000 feet of, and have no contact, with Rusch. That order expires November 4, 2025.

According to her arrest documents, dated August 29, 2020, Carmen was arrested in Camas on charges of felony harassment against Rusch, who had been receiving numerous threats for years.

The official arrest report says the following:

“On 8/27/20 at 0707 hrs, Chief Mitch Lackey of the Camas Police Department received an email from Carmen Copeland (carmencopeland68@gmail.com).

“Carmen Copeland has had a long standing child custody dispute with her ex husband, Mark Copeland, who resides in Camas. Officers of the Camas Police Department, along with myself, are familiar with Carmen and this long standing child custody dispute. Deanna Rusch represented Mark Copeland during the divorce and won a judgement against Carmen. I called Rusch, who confirmed she knew Carmen and wasn’t surprised to receive such a threat.

“I contacted Copeland on 8/27/20 at 1907 hrs. I questioned Copeland about the email, and showed her the email on my phone. Copeland admitted to sending the email in question to Chief Lackey this morning. I asked Copeland why she threatened Deanna Rusch in the email. Copeland said she wouldn’t hurt Rusch and blamed the sentence “MAKE SURE DEANNA L RUSCH FAMILY LAWYER OF MARK WAYNE COPELAND AND JUDGE JOHN P. FAIRGRIEVE UNDERSTAND THAT SHE WILL BE CHOPPED TO HER DEATH FOR HURTING ME AND MY CHILDREN FOR SO LONG AND THEY ARE SEXUAL PREDATORS AND SEXUALLY DEVIATED GARBAGE JUST AS MARK WAYNE COPELAND” on the auto correct feature on her phone. I asked Copeland if she was intending to hurt either Rusch or Judge Fairgrieve, and she told me no, adding she was not a violent person.

“Later that evening, I contacted Deanna Rusch via email. I asked Rusch to explain her relationship with Carmen Copeland. Rusch told me Carmen has filed numerous civil actions against both her and her law office since she represented Mark in the divorce. Rush said Carmen has mental health problems and she isn’t sure what she is capable of. Rusch said since I had informed her of the threat, she has been afraid to go outside. Rusch said she has contacted co-workers, family, and neighbors to let them know about the threat. Rusch said she is considering obtaining a no contact order against Carmen and is genuinely afraid of her.

A criminal history check revealed Carmen Copeland has prior convictions for Criminal Trespass 1st Degree, and for violating a DV No-Contact Order.”

Camen’s prior criminal history includes:

Criminal trespass on October 2, 2018, for which she was convicted on December 6, 2019.
Domestic violence (court order violation) on October 2, 2018, for which she was convicted on December 6, 2019.

In divorce documents, Carmen was accused of child abandonment and neglect and having emotional or physical problems that impaired her ability to parent. Mark won full custody of their children, and Carmen was not granted any visitation rights until she sought psychiatric counseling. Carmen has also lost multiple appeals to her criminal convictions.

The divorce settlement left Carmen with a house, a vehicle, and financial resources.

Downtown Camas merchants are very uneasy with the rising homeless and panhandling issues and the owner of 4 Ever Growing Kids, Amy Begley, presented their issues to City Council on Monday, pleading with the city to remedy these issues.

City Council member Jennifer Senescu said at Monday’s council meeting she will work with police and encourage a staff report to find ways to resolve the present situation with Carmen. For his part, Mayor Steve Hogan apologized to veterans present at Monday’s council meeting for the desecration of the American flag incidents on Memorial Day, in which witnesses says Carmen removed flag, spit on them, and cursed them.

June 9, 2023/2 Comments/by Ernest Geigenmiller

Business, Featured, News

United Precision Corp Officially Opens Manufacturing Facility in Washougal

United Precision Corp (UPC) held its official Grand Opening Friday night at the Steigerwald Commerce Center in Washougal with dozens of elected officials, business leaders, educators and citizens in attendance.

General Manager Robert Hawrylo was one of several UPC leaders who greeted guests, providing them an overview of their work and the facility.

UPC manufactures high tech seals and vertical launching system components for defense clients, such as the Navy, and spacecraft products (parts, seals, bolts) for SpaceX, a company led by Elon Musk. Their clients include the following companies and government entities:

NASA
SpaceX
Boeing
Moog Aircraft Group
United Launch Alliance
United States Navy
United States Air Force
Aerojet Rocketdyne
Lockheed Martin
Teledyne Technologies

UPC manufactures specialized machine seals for the space industry, including port seals, omega seals, beam seals and pressure-assisted seals.

The construction of this site has been several years in the making. The site was chosen for its business friendly environment, its beauty and ability to expand.

They will have 20 employees working onsite and plan to have 100 in about a year.

Guests were provided tours of the facility.

June 6, 2023/0 Comments/by Ernest Geigenmiller

Featured, News

Downtown Camas Merchants, City Face Growing Homeless Problems

Camas, WA — The homeless and panhandler problems in downtown Camas and in other areas of the city came to a head on Memorial Day when Carmen, a homeless woman who sleeps on sidewalk benches along 4th Avenue, was accused of desecrating American flags on display. Local veterans had placed the flags to honor fallen veterans for Memorial Day.

“On Monday morning we heard a commotion, while having breakfast at Natalia’s Cafe, and we saw a lady who threw an American flag on the street and then she spit on it,” said Sonny Liston, a U.S. veteran, and commander of Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW #4278).”

Liston said Carmen cursed the flag, and yelled “I don’t want this flag in my house!”

“Other VFW members confronted her, called the police and things got heated,” said Liston. “She started yelling at all of us, and the police were called. The police talked to her and to all of us, but no arrest was made.”

It’s one in a string of incidents with Carmen, and others who continue to sleep and squat along 4th Avenue. A younger man, named Jordan, was asked to leave the premises last week while panhandling on Lutz Hardware property.

Barry Lutz, owner of the Lutz Hardware building, said his tenants have been a dealing with unauthorized use of the upstairs office bathrooms. A homeless man used the facilities to clean up and left a big mess on the premises. Lutz plans to place additional security measures inside his building.

“I’ve been involved in a couple of these experiences,” said Amy Begley, owner of 4Ever Growing Kids at 4th and Dallas Streets in downtown Camas. “We had one incident on Camas clean up day and while cleaning up Carmen (who has spent four months camping outside her store) was yelling at me in front of my children and I got into quite the argument with her. I called the police because I didn’t think this was appropriate for this to happen in front of all these families and instead of coming down to tell me what my rights were the police decided to give her a rundown of her rights. I don’t believe she has the right to use that space as she does. Her stuff is on the bench 24/7. She moves around during the day but she keeps her belongings here.”

Begley said the police “treat me like I’m the nuisance, like I’m the problem.”

Begley also reported an altercation Carmen had with a customer.

“She (Carmen) smacked the hands of one of my customers who inquired about her being there, and she told them go away or she would call the cops on them.”

Lacamas Magazine also asked Carmen about why she uses this space, and she replied: “I’m busy, get out of my space.”

Jordan told Lacamas Magazine “I’m here because my family dropped me off to get money.”

The employees at Juxtaposition reported that their customers are concerned because they too have been threatened by several people wandering the streets, and said “unless the problem goes away we won’t shop here anymore.”

So, what can be done?

“I have received comments from several citizens and am aware of the incident that occurred on Memorial Day,” said Camas City Council member, Jennifer Senescu. “I have reached out to Mayor Hogan, Administrator Quinn and Chief Lackey requesting a discussion on how to best handle this situation. I recognize the importance of addressing this matter and will work with my peers toward a resolution.”

The Downtown Camas Association (DCA) has also held meetings with city officials to address the growing issue.

Downtown Camas employees have expressed feeling unsafe at night (when working late) as they see another homeless man wander the streets on an ongoing basis. And, the city was able to clear Goot Park of a homeless issue that arose there months ago.

“We are aware of the situation that occurred (on Memorial Day),” said Bryan Rachal, City of Camas Communications Director. “Camas PD was dispatched to the situation and determined that it did not rise to the level of arrest or citation. Homelessness in itself is not a crime, as such we follow standard protocol and connect the individuals with the Clark County Council for the Homeless. We understand the public’s concern and will continue to discuss options internally.”

Senescu plans to address the problem in official City Council sessions, and local merchants plan to formally address the homeless and panhandling issues.

June 5, 2023/6 Comments/by Ernest Geigenmiller

Featured, Sports

Camas High School Honors 16 Students at Letter of Intent Signing

Camas, WA — The Camas High School Athletics Department honored 16 student-athletes Friday morning who signed letters of intent for the colleges and universities they will be attending, and competing for, this Fall.

Here are the student-athletes:

GRACE COMBS is heading up to Seattle to continue her education and athletic career at Seattle Pacific University where she is getting a full ride between athletic and academic scholarships. She was part of three league champion track and field teams in her time at CHS and she was a recognized all-league player. On campus, Grace was a pride inside winner and active with National Honors Society. She will be going into Nursing at Seattle Pacific.

Parents Chris and Krista, Sisters Faith, Hope, and Joy. Memorable moment running in her first district meet and just the way the team felt like a family.

JOSHUA DABASINSKAS is heading north to Bellevue College to continue his basketball career. Josh was part of the first boys’ basketball team to make it to the Dome that placed sixth this year. He was a two- time GSHL champion with the program. As a team captain he broke program records as the all-time leader in charges taken in a game, season, and career. At CHS, he took six AP classes and was a three-time state qualifier for DECA. He will be working toward a business degree at Bellevue.

Parents Debi and Stephen, brother Jonathan – Memorable moment was the San Diego holiday tournament.

MADISON HUBBARD is heading out to the Mid-West to attend Minnesota State University Mankato. Maddie was part of three district champion teams at CHS. She is the 100-meter school record holder, and place 3rd in the 100-meter race. Maddie excelled in the classroom as a Pride Inside Recipient who also has held a 3.97 GPA. She will be pursuing a degree in Aviation.

Parents Deja and Nik – Memorable moment was the Bed Bugs at the Oregon Relays.

ELI HUNTINGTON will be continuing his golf career while also serving our nation as he heads to the Air Force Academy. Eli was our league MVP twice, finished first at districts twice, and had two top five finishes at the state tournament. He led our team to a sixth-place finish in 2023 and fifth place finish in 2022. He will be studying Aeronautical Engineering at the Air Force Academy.

Parents Brad and Lee, Brother Owen – Memorable moment was playing two years with his brother on the team.

THEO MCMILLAN is continuing his journey as a student-athlete at Seattle Pacific University. Theo was part of the record breaking 2023 basketball team that was the first boys’ team to make it to the Tacoma Dome where they took home a sixth-place finish. Theo ended his career with 49 wins and eleven other team records including the assist record for a game, season, and career. Theo also played soccer this year and was the GSHL defensive player of the year. He will be pursuing a degree in education and coaching science.

Parents Sean and Jennifer, sister Lola and brother Eli – Memorable moment was beating Tahoma at the Tacoma Dome in the state playoffs.

AMELIA MERRITT is heading down to Monmouth to run at Western Oregon University. Amelia lettered four straight years in track and cross country. She helped the track team tack home three district championships and get a 5th place finish in state in 2022. She showed her leadership through her senior project, she created and led her on offseason training group to get the team ready for the season. She will be going in to Dental Hygiene.

Parents Zoe and Scott – Memorable moment was throwing up at district twice and still finishing her race.

NORA MELCHER is heading up to Lacey to attend St. Martin’s University and play soccer. Nora is a three-time league champion, two time bi-district champion, and won a state championship in 2021. She was a two-time second team all-league player, and was honored as a first team player this season. She will be pursuing a nursing degree at St Martin’s.
Parents Jessica and Ben, brother Nick, sisters Ivy and Anna – Memorable moment was the San Diego holiday tournament.

MARCO ORLANDO is heading down to McMinnville to attend Linfield University where he will play soccer. Marco was part of the 2023 League Champion soccer team at CHS, and was part of a state quarter finalist team as well. He is looking forward to Linfield as it is close to home, gives him an opportunity to continue playing, and thinks it is a great fit academically. He is undecided for what degree he will pursue.

Parents Meredith and Joe – Memorable moment was riding buses to away games with the team.

HAYDEN REICH is crossing the country to head to Florida and compete at the University of Tampa. Hayden has made a huge impact in our running programs during his time at CHS. He has been part of eight team league championships between Track and Cross Country, while competing with the team at the state level in 2021 and 2022 for cross country and 2022 and 2023 for track. As a two time all region first team runner and two-time league runner of the year, Hayden led the way the last two years. He will be going into business finance at the University of Tampa.

Parents Erica and Henry – Memorable moment was running in the state cross country meet two times.

OLAJUWON SOBOMEHIN is heading across the river to continue his wrestling career at Pacific University in Forest Grove. Juwon was part of the 2023 district champion CHS wrestling team. He placed at the district and regional tournaments this year, and got to wrestle at state in the Tacoma Dome. He has been a leader in our student body while being honored as a student of excellence by our social studies department. He will be pursuing a business degree at Pacific.

Mom Rachel, Dad Niyo, and Stepdad Jon – Memorable moment was placing in regionals, going to state, and being named a team captain.

JACOB SWENSON will be heading south to play baseball and attend Linfield University. Jake was part of two league championship baseball teams here at CHS while making it to the state sweet sixteen twice. Jake’s performance on the mound, at shortstop, and at the plate earned him first team all-league recognition this year. He lettered three years while also maintaining a 3.9GPA in the classroom. He will be going into Sports Management at Linfield University.

Parents Diane and Gregg, sister Megan – Memorable moment was getting to play in the state tournament up north.

ASHLEE TUPPER is heading to Viterbo University to continue pursuing her soccer career. She was part of two league championships, one bi-district championship and a state championship soccer team here at CHS over the two years she competed. She also competed with the Timbers FC Academy while maintaining a 3.86 GPA. She will be going in to Nutrition and Dietetics as she starts her college years. Parents Joe and Julee, brother Luke and sister Jasmyn.

J.P. WARNELL is staying close to home and will be playing soccer for Clark College next year. JP was part of a league champion team in 2023 and also part of the team that made it to the state quarterfinals in 2022. As a team captain, he was the offensive player of the year this season while being first team all- league. This followed up a second team all-league selection as a junior. He looks to pursue a degree in business.

Parents Rob and Niki – Memorable moment was the bus robbery in Puyallup his junior year.

MORGAN WETZEL will also be heading up to Lacey and playing soccer at St. Martin’s University. As a three-time varsity letterman, she won three league championships and was part of the 2021 state championship team. She was a second team all-league selection this season. She also was a leader in our building as a Pride Inside winner in 2019. She will be going into Pre-Law at St. Martin’s.

Parents Matt and Kirstin – Memorable moment was winning the state title in 2021.

CHLOE WHITE is heading across the country to attend the University of South Carolina Beaufort where she will play soccer next year. Chloe played one year of soccer at CHS, and made it count as it was the state championship year in 2021. During her high school years, she was able to experience playing overseas in Spain with the Tovo Academy and Villanova FC. She will be pursuing a degree in sociology and criminology.

Parents Sarah and Lloyd, sister Charlotte.

KEELY WIECZOREK will be taking her goal stopping skills to Colorado as she will be attending Colorado Mesa University to continue her soccer career. Three league championships, two bi-district championships, one state championship, three first team all-league selections, two first team all-region selections, and one first team all-state selection, Keely racked up the accolades during her four varsity letter years at CHS. She did all that while maintaining a 3.95GPA and earning herself a Pride Inside award as well. She will be going into Biology at Colorado Mesa.

Parents Ted, Linnea, and sibling Teddy – Memorable moment was winning the title in 2021.

June 2, 2023/0 Comments/by Ernest Geigenmiller

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