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Camas Days Parade Features Marquita Call as Grand Marshal on July 23

Following two years of pandemic related restrictions, the Camas Days Hometown Festival is roaring back to life on Friday and Saturday, July 23 and 24th. One of the highlights is the Camas Days Parade which attracts more than 10,000 spectators. This year, Marquita Call will serve as Grand Marshal. Marquita was named business person of the year by the Camas-Washougal Chamber of Commerce in 2021. 

Marquita Call was raised in Camas and has deep roots here. Her dad, Art Gaiani, built more than 50 homes in Camas. Her grandmother Marie Eymer played piano at the Liberty Theatre when it opened in 1927. Marquita graduated Camas High School in 1962. Her first job was at the Ideal Corner Cafe at the age of 15. She also worked at Dairy Queen with classmate Denis Hayes, the International Chairman of Earth Day. She and her friends started the first recycling center in Camas in the late 60s. She taught Sunday school at Zion Lutheran Church for 20 years, where her mother Lenora Gaiani served as superintendent. 

Marquita has owned Camas Gallery for the past 12 years. Her gallery has been voted Best of Clark County for seven years in a row. In 2012, the Downtown Camas Association (DCA) honored Marquita with its “Something New” award and then in 2013, the DCA presented her with its “Spirit Award.” 

Marquita is known for her infectious personality. She welcomes visitors to her gallery with warmth and enthusiasm and freely shares her historic knowledge of Camas. One visitor claimed Marquita is to Camas what Dolly Parton is to Pigeon Forge, TN.

“One thing that will never change about Camas is its sense of wellness,” says Marquita. “I love this very special town,” she said. 

In addition to the popular Saturday Camas Days parade, a children’s parade is on Friday, July 22 at 12:15 pm. Most of the events continue over two days, Friday and Saturday, July 22 and 23. Two day events include a beer and wine garden with live music from 5 pm to 11 pm along with a street festival featuring more than 80 artisans and vendors, and family fun on Kids’ Street, open from 11 am to 8 pm. Visit CWChamber.com to download full schedule of events. For more information, contact Camas Washougal Chamber at 360-834-2472. 

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Kelly O’Rourke Hired as New Camas High School Principal

Camas School District (CSD) Superintendent Dr. John Anzalone announced today the hiring of Kelly O’Rourke as the next principal at Camas High School. 

O’Rourke joins Camas from Clark County School District in Nevada, where she served as principal at elementary, middle, and high school levels. In 2019, she supported schools at the district level and oversaw assessment, accountability, research, and school improvement.

“Kelly O’Rourke’s values and experiences are a wonderful match for the Camas community. She will bring a spirit of collaboration and rich experience leading inclusive, welcoming school environments,” said CSD Board member Tracey Malone.

Superintendent Anzalone stated, “We are excited to welcome Kelly to Camas and have staff, families, and students learn more about this engaging leader known for her leadership that promotes organization, discipline, focus, and flexibility.” 

O’Rourke is adept in many diverse areas of leadership. Specifically, areas of administrative collaboration that lead to increased student achievement, school improvement, data analysis, professional development and instruction, and designing systems and structures that build effective professional learning communities. She also has a proven track record of unifying diverse school communities through genuine collaboration with students, staff, and parents.

“I am honored to have the opportunity to lead Camas High school alongside a dedicated staff, spirited student body, and supportive parent community. I look forward to learning about the rich traditions that have proven to build excellence in education and work to increase the trajectory of success,” stated O’Rourke. “I advocate for hard work, accountability, transparency, and clear communication.”

Anzalone’s previous position was Assistant Superintendent of Clark County School District in Nevada. He started his new role leading CSD on July 1, 2022.

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CSD Asst. Superintendent Williams Accepts Position at Evergreen Public Schools

Camas, WA — On Wednesday, Camas School District (CSD) Assistant Superintendent, Dr. Charlene Williams, a champion of student equity programs, announced via email she has accepted a position as Deputy Superintendent at Evergreen Public Schools. She has been employed by CSD since 2016.

This is her email: 

Dear Camas Family,

“It has been my honor and pleasure to work and serve alongside you these last few years. I have learned so much with and from you. I will be serving as the new Deputy Superintendent for Evergreen Public Schools and wishing the best for each of you as we continue on our journey to see and serve each and every student.

With love and gratitude,

Dr. W

Williams received WASA’s 2022 Columbia River Region Award of Merit for effective leadership.

“Dr. Williams has been a tremendous champion in the Camas School District, as well as Clark County, ensuring that our students and families experience equity in access and opportunities,” Camas School District Interim Superintendent Doug Hood said in a news release. “She understands the power of coming together to learn by listening to our students and families who have been historically marginalized, and by engaging our community in a dialog to reflect on our own beliefs, deepen understanding, and work together to create equitable systems and practices.”

Camas High School is also seeking to replace its principal, Tom Morris, who is returning to his role as Associate Principal at CHS.

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The Most Common Uses for Aluminum Extrusions

Many people don’t realize just how widespread and dependable aluminum extrusions are in their everyday products, appliances and even vehicles. To help you better understand how and why aluminum has become so pervasive, here are some of the most common uses for aluminum extrusions throughout a variety of industries.

Construction

As you may have expected, aluminum extrusions are a very effective and popular building material. They provide superb internal structural support, and you can find them around buildings in the form of handrails, door frames, windows and other various details. In fact, people often use aluminum extrusions for aesthetic design simply because they provide a sleek and modern appeal. Thanks to their strength and lightweight attributes, aluminum extrusions can be incorporated practically anywhere.

Transportation

The transportation industry has adopted extrusions in the creation of as many vehicle models as possible, and it’s quickly becoming one of the most common uses for aluminum extrusions. The strength of aluminum matches those of other metals traditionally used in cars, trucks and more. But more importantly, the lightweight trait of these extrusions makes them far more efficient. The lighter a vehicle is, the more fuel-efficient it can be since the engine doesn’t have to work as hard to move the entire vehicle. Think about how older cars used to be so much heavier because they used materials like stainless steel.

Industrial

Any industrial facility will also make use of aluminum extrusions as a practical and efficient material. Aluminum extrusions are very easy to craft and mold into specific designs, allowing for quick and effective construction of applications like tables, carts, manufacturing equipment and more. Furthermore, aluminum extrusion machine guards make heavy machinery so much safer for operation by reducing the likelihood of workers coming into contact with dangerous components.

Home Décor

Where you may least expect aluminum extrusions is in home décor. You may own indoor and outdoor furniture that uses aluminum extrusions in its construction. This helps ensure furniture is long-lasting but not too heavy to move around as you see fit. Extrusions are also used in art pieces or picture frames for that sleek and modern appearance the construction industry also takes advantage of.

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Essential Highway Tips for Beginner Drivers

Driving on the highway is something all drivers need to learn eventually. We know it looks scary and intimidating, but you will be driving like a pro with enough practice and patience. Before you head out on the road, here are five essential highway tips for beginner drivers to ensure a safe trip. 

Stay Alert and Pay Attention to Your Surroundings

The number one essential highway tip for beginner drivers is to drive when you are most alert and pay attention to your surroundings. Driving on the highway requires you to be aware of what’s ahead, beside you, and behind you. As a beginner driver, you may have the habit of looking only straight ahead.

Stay in the Right Lane

The right lane on the highway is designated for slower pace driving and is ideal for beginner drivers. The left lane is intended for passing, while the middle and right lanes are for driving. Once you feel comfortable, you can begin driving in the middle lane and practice passing.

Pick a Slower Time to Drive on the Highway

When you are learning how to drive on the highway, it’s a good idea to start during a slower time of the day. Do not begin driving during rush hour! Choose a time later in the evening or early mornings during the weekend to avoid traffic and reckless drivers.

If you decide to drive at night or early morning, you should take extra precautions for high-risk drivers, wild animals, and other safety hazards.

Always Remember to Use Your Signals

Properly using your signals is always essential when you’re driving, but it is imperative when you’re on the highway. You must use your blinkers to communicate with other drivers so they can know what you’re doing. 

Also, ensure that you keep a safe distance between yourself and other cars just in case someone doesn’t use their blinker.

Make Sure You Are Comfortable

If you think you’re not ready to begin driving on the highway, take more time to practice on the street before trying. As you get more comfortable, you may feel like you can handle the highway. 

Make sure you have an experienced driver with you when you embark on your first few journeys. Don’t allow anyone to pressure you into driving on the highway if you’re not ready.

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5 Ways to Spend Time in Your Backyard This Summer

After a long, dreary winter, it’s refreshing to spend time outside without having to wear a parka. Summer is the perfect time to get active with your friends and family—and you don’t have to go on a long trip to enjoy the weather. With these ways to spend time in your backyard this summer, spending time in the sunshine will be easy and fun.

Outdoor Movie Night

Get that old-fashioned drive-in movie experience without searching for the nearest theater. Set up a projection screen in the yard, bring out some blankets and camping chairs, and watch your favorite movie together as the sun sets.

Camping Out

Rough it in your yard for a night or two! Set up tents and blankets, and if you’ve got a fire pit, get a campfire going. Bring your best spooky stories and plenty of marshmallows for roasting. Spend time as a family under the stars.

Backyard Game Day

Think about your favorite games to play at a family cookout or barbecue. Croquet, ring toss, and cornhole are great—and low-stakes—ways to flex your competitive spirit. Elevate the game experience with professional cornhole gear or a high-end croquet set, and offer tantalizing prizes (Gift cards? Homemade treats?) to the winners.

Karaoke Party

If it’s been a while since your last try at karaoke, bring the music outside and have a laughter-filled time with family and friends. Making and listening to music together is a uniquely entertaining experience when enjoyed outdoors.

Play With Your Pets

Your four-legged friends love spending time outdoors just as much as you do! Let your pup loose in the yard and play a rousing game of fetch. Even cats can enjoy that direct sunshine from a secure area as they watch the critters outdoors. Keep an eye on your animal pals to prevent them from wandering off while enjoying their companionship on warm summer days.

Feel the sunshine on your face as you plan fun summer activities. There are plenty of memories you can make in your own yard! Let these ways to spend time in your backyard this summer inspire you to go above and beyond the classic cookout.

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Things to Consider Daily: Eco-Friendly Practices for the Workplace

Taking care of the planet is everyone’s responsibility, but some of the biggest contributors to pollution are businesses — from factories billowing smoke to daily operations producing far more waste than the average household. To help your business stay green, here are some eco-friendly practices for the workplace.

Implement Recycling Programs

Implementing a recycling program requires a bit more effort than simply providing the appropriate bins around the office. Instead, take the time to educate employees on how to properly recycle different materials. For instance, recycling batteries requires greater expertise than recycling paper. Understanding how to properly dispose of different materials goes a long way in ensuring that those materials can be reused and kept out of landfills.

Go Paperless

Another great eco-friendly practice for the workplace is to eliminate waste by encouraging your workplace to forgo paper. In its place, make the effort to digitize data and information. Doing so preserves our forests by decreasing the need for paper and ink. And in fact, you’ll likely save a lot more money if you don’t need to purchase such materials.

Eco-Friendly

Add Office Plants

Placing plants around your office doesn’t just add to the aesthetic appeal; it also improves the air quality in your office space by removing carbon dioxide and other pollutants. We’re naturally disposed to enjoy natural elements, and you’ll find the workplace a lot more relaxing and stress-free with a bit of greenery around.

Encourage Sustainable Transportation

Finally, encourage your employees to get to work in ways other than taking their vehicles or by carpooling with other coworkers. Biking, walking, taking public transit and carpooling are excellent ways to cut down on the emissions from burning fossil fuels. In fact, as working from home has proven to be just as productive as having employees in the office, you could simply eliminate transportation all together and offer the opportunity for employees to work remotely as they please.

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CW Chamber Honors Citizen & Business Person of the Year, Students, Teachers

Camas, WA — Dozens gathered together at Camas Meadows Golf Club Wednesday evening at the Annual Camas Washougal Chamber of Commerce Awards banquet to honor students, teachers, as well as the Citizen of the Year and Business Person of the Year.

Lori Reed, president of the chamber emceed the event, which first paid tribute to two local seniors who won $1,000 college scholarships. Mary Lendvoyi was the Washougal scholarship recipient. Lendvoyi is an excellent student and athlete, and plans to attend college in Idaho.

Savannah Stephens won the college scholarship representing Camas (Camas Connect Academy). She will be attending Brigham Young University this Fall.

The Washougal Teacher of the Year is Cheryl MacIntyre, who was honored for her work as the District Math Coach. Camas nominated three teachers — Jenn Scott, Brooke Hansen and Melissa Butler — for their amazing work in the Science of Reading Team. The three teachers have helped students diagnosed and cope with dyslexia and other reading issues. Their work has been instrumental in helping kids with reading difficulties. 

Retired Staff Sergeant John Kaiser was named Citizen of the Year for his work helping local veterans. He started fishing with his dad at the age of 6. In 1997, Kaiser enlisted in the Army where he served in Kuwait, Mosul and Baghdad, where he was wounded. He medically retired in 2008. After struggling with PTSD fishing became a therapy. After fishing with an Army Buddy, Kaiser realized there are therapeutic benefits of being outside surrounded by nature and quietly fishing. 

Chamber
John Kaiser won the Citizen of the Year award.

Kaiser began to take veterans fishing and quickly became the Northwest Veteran Outreach Coordinator for Veteran Outdoors, a Texas-based organization dedicated to providing hunting, fishing and outdoor activities to wounded veterans. 

And, Marilyn Reed was honored as Business Person of the Year for finding creative solutions to grow her business — Lily Atelier — which is a women’s boutique store.

The CW Chamber Citizen of the Year award started in 1955.

Chamber
Savannah Stephens won a CW Chamber college scholarship.
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Three Questions You Should Ask Your Immigration Attorney

Remember these questions you should ask your immigration attorney during your first meeting if you want clarity and confidence when proceeding with your case.

Immigration attorneys assist in cases dealing with issues such as naturalization and fiancé(e) visas. These cases deal with sensitive issues and require careful planning and knowledge. But how do you differentiate a suitable lawyer from the rest? These are the top three questions you should ask your immigration attorneyduring your first meeting. 

How Much Experience Do You Have? 

This is a standard question you should ask when partnering with any professional, and an immigration attorney is no exception. Specifically, relevant experience comes down to how many years the professional has worked with these types of cases as well as how many cases they have under their belt. That way, you can find an experienced expert who knows the titular topic front to back.

Another clear sign of expert experience in immigration law is being a member of the American Immigration Lawyers Association (AILA); this membership showcases a dedication to professionalism and ethical practices. When you’re browsing online for an immigration law firm, you’ll find many details on its website, and one of them should be its AILA membership. 

How Long Will the Process Take? 

When you’re discussing the steps of any immigration case, they can understandably seem daunting to some newcomers. An experienced immigration law firm is helpful for various reasons, and one of the reasons is the clarity it can provide. Knowing how long your case will take is an easy way to set your expectations accurately. 

For instance, when you’re researching how long obtaining a K1 visa takes, you may find a large swathe of time frames. The reason for this is that details such as correctly filing the necessary forms will affect how long the case takes. So after your attorney looks over your case details, ask how long they think the process will take so that you can plan accordingly. 

Will You Help Me Win My Case? 

Another effective way to set proper expectations is knowing how your case objectively looks to a professional. Therefore, one of the top questions you should ask your immigration attorney is: What are my chances of success in this case? Of course, lawyers are not fortune-tellers. But a reliable immigration lawyer should know your chances of success after you provide them with the proper information regarding your case.

Beyond providing clarity on the topic, asking this question also offers you a way to test your lawyer’s knowledge and integrity. Whether they see success or failure in your case, the attorney should provide you with a reason why.

Thanks to these questions, you can gain a clearer picture of how your case will proceed and whether you’re talking to the right professional. 

Eco Friendly
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CW Chamber Names Reed, Kaiser as 2022 Business Person, Citizen of the Year

Camas, WA — The Camas-Washougal Chamber of Commerce, in partnership with Riverview Community Bank, has named Marilyn Reed, owner of Lily Atelier the 2022 Business Person of the Year, and John Kaiser as the 2022 Citizen of the Year.

On Wednesday, June 1, the CW Chamber will host the Annual Awards Banquet at the Camas Meadows Golf Club, 4105 NW Camas Meadows Dr in Camas. This event is open to the public. The cost to attend is $45 per person. Please contact the C-W Chamber at info@cwchamber.com or by phone at 360.834.2472 for ticket information. The CW Chamber Scholarship Winners and the Teachers of the Year from both the Camas School District and the Washougal School district, will also be honored on June 1st. For more information or for questions call 360.834.2472.   

2022 Businessperson of the Year: Marilyn Reed, Lily Atelier

Reed purchased Lily Atelier in November 2019

  • As an active board member on the C-W Chamber she regularly sponsors events and donates a gift basket to the Gift Basket Luncheon. She also serves on the Camas Days Committee.
  • Reed is an active member of the Downtown Camas Association (DCA) and supports almost all of their events. 
  • Reed supports and participates in many fundraising events for several local organizations including, Ten Grands, Dinner in White, Jack Will and Rob Center, Assistance League, Camas Educational Foundation, Camas High School Deca Program and Pink Sista’s.
  • And, she supports the education of our young community members through bi-annual internship programs run by Cascadia Technology Academy

2022 Citizen of the Year: John Kaiser

Chamber
John Kaiser

Retired Staff Sergeant John Kaiser started fishing with his dad at the age of 6. In 1997, Kaiser enlisted in the Army where he served in Kuwait, Mosul and Baghdad, where he was wounded. He medically retired in 2008. After struggling with PTSD fishing became a therapy. After fishing with an Army Buddy, Kaiser realized there are therapeutic benefits of being outside surrounded by nature and quietly fishing. 

Kaiser began to take veterans fishing and quickly became the Northwest Veteran Outreach Coordinator for Veteran Outdoors, a Texas-based organization dedicated to providing hunting, fishing and outdoor activities to wounded veterans. 

Last year, Kaiser took out over 100 veterans on the Columbia River from Astoria to Roosevelt Lake to fish. Later this year, he will take two female army vets to the Salmon Derby in Astoria. Their only expense will be the fishing license. 

Kaiser explained that these are “not just fishing trips but also opportunities to share the healing effects being outdoors has on the physical and mental struggles of veterans.” 

Administrator
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