Washougal High School Advanced Culinary students were put to the test on September 26 when they created and served a special lunch entrée for students and faculty.
In addition to preparing ingredients and cooking the meal, students were asked to market the lunch special using posters, Instagram, announcements, and Twitter.
“This was the first time for many of the students to participate in this type of activity,” said Brenda Hitchins, WHS Culinary Arts teacher. “They applied organizational skills, teamwork, sanitation, time management, cooking methods, presentation, and making sure everything was cleaned up at the end.”
The lunch offer was “Pasta Pronto” and featured penne pasta with either marinara or alfredo sauces and a choice of other delicious additions such as red onions, sliced olives, fresh spinach, and sausage.
“Culinary students sautés the ingredients, toss in penne pasta, and finish with their choice of sauce,” Hitchins said. “It takes teamwork and coordination as they pass the pan down the line for each step. The dish is finished and placed in paper boat and topped with a whole wheat breadstick. Students can add parmesan cheese and chili pepper flakes if they choose.”
Regular school lunch pricing applied.
“Lunch numbers have been low, so we partnered with Mark Jasper of Sodexo to put on this event,” said Hitchins. “We had a goal to serve more than 230 lunches and we brought the number up to 208.”
“This lunch project was a great opportunity for students to apply what they are learning in class to a real-world situation,” said Margaret Rice, WSD Career and Technical Education Director. “The experience gave them the chance to serve peers, practice what they know and assess how it went so they can improve upon their skills. We hope this is the first of many opportunities like this.”
Students were required to first complete “Introduction to Culinary” and “Baking and Pastry” classes to enroll in “Advanced Culinary I and II”.
“Our biggest challenge is setting up the stations and get the food ready before the event,” Hitchins said. “Students are giving up their lunch time to participate in these school lunches as well as their part of their fourth period class to help breakdown and clean.”
Hitchins believes participation in these type of events builds student self-esteem and confidence.
“Our goal this year is to teach them how to quantify what skills they have so they are able to present this information on different platforms such as a resume, job interview, and volunteer service,” she said. “Some students struggle to be at school. My goal for this class is not only that they are learning a life skill, but they are finding a reason to want to come to school and participate.”
Moving forward, students will work more with Jasper and Sodexo in creating other lunch offerings. They will forecast ingredients needed, do complete station set up, food prepping and all while meeting the school lunch program standards.
“Students will run the event and learn about planning, how to make sure they are prepared, delegating duties to others, and reflecting on the event so they think about their learning and assess their performance objectives to see how they have grown,” said Hitchins.
https://cdn.lacamasmagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/10/07075421/0995EF21-5601-4BB6-BBD8-3C64FDFBFCFF-e1570139891241.jpeg7742025Ernest Geigenmillerhttps://cdn.lacamasmagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/07074147/lacamas_white_2-300x300.pngErnest Geigenmiller2019-10-03 15:00:022019-10-03 15:00:12Washougal High School Advanced Culinary Students Serve Up Lunch
This article is a recap of what City of Camas Administrator Pete Capell shared with the entire audience at the beginning of the Camas Community Aquatics Center Open House on Wednesday night. Lacamas Magazine provided a live stream of the entire proceedings on our Lacamas Magazine Facebook page. It included Capell’s presentation and about 45 minutes of a question and answer session between several residents and Camas Mayor Shannon Turk.
Why the city put the bond forward:
Various City Councils have studied the feasibility of a Community Center for over three decades.
Through numerous surveys, a year-round swimming pool and a recreational center have consistently been the number one requested amenity.
Cost was the same argument used against building the library 20 years ago. The library is now a community treasure and widely believed to have made a significant contribution to initiating the downtown renovation.
Aquatic Center Features & Benefits:
A recreational pool with slides and a lazy river are routinely top attractions in an Aquatics Center. This is included in the plans for our Aquatic Center.
There is a strong demand for a lap pool in our community. This includes high school students, a strong master’s program and everyday citizens who want to swim for exercise. We are surrounded by lakes and rivers. Teaching our kids to swim is a high priority.
The city and the school district have discussed the possibility of having every student in Camas School District receive swimming and water safety lessons as part of their curriculum. The community does not have a good place for senior citizens and teens to meet and partake in activities. The community rooms will fill this void.
There will be an indoor path that will allow for a safe and dry place to exercise.
A multipurpose gym will allow sports leagues (e.g. basketball, volleyball, etc), small groups and individuals to practice and play inside.
A Camas swimmer at Kelso. Local swim teams often have to travel long distances to compete.
Cost Comparisons:
The same architect that designed Firstenburg in 2006 used published building cost escalation factors to show that if Firstenburg was built in 2021, it would cost approximately $35.6 mil, as compared to the estimated building cost of $37.2 mil for the proposed Aquatic Center. It was also noted, our center has planned for a lap pool, while Firstenburg does not have one.
The City of Hillsboro expects to open a two-story 51,500 square foot community center in 2021 at a cost of $37 mil. Our Aquatic Center is planned to be 72,000 square feet.
Other planned amenities:
Frontage improvements to Lake Road, including trails and sidewalks.
Additional parking spaces (242) for both the Aquatic Center and Heritage Park boat launch.
Intersection improvements at Lake and Sierra, including a traffic signal.
Sports field improvements at Forest Home, Dorothy Fox and Prune Hill, which includes lighting and synthetic turf.
Property Tax impact:
If the bond is approved by voters, starting in 2021 residents will pay approximately $1.04 per $1,000 in assessed property value. This equates to approximately $500 per year for the median assessed valued house of $464,000. The property tax will likely decrease each year as new construction and property values increase. We will have a fixed debt service amount, so as property values increase, the rates go down.
In 2021 the projected $1.32 of school district bond levy taxes, as well as 12 cents in the library building levy tax are set to expire. This could then lead to a net reduction in taxes by 40 cents per $1000 of assessed property value.
With recent legislation to address statewide school funding, the school board will be deciding later this year whether to increase the local operating levy up to $1.00 for 2020.
The levy is for a maximum of $72 mil. If the levy passes, the city will secure competitive bids and pursue grants and private/corporate donations to reduce the amount taxpayers will pay. It is easier to obtain other monies, when you already have public funding.
Operating Costs:
Camas City Council has committed to not take away any funding from essential services to cover operating costs. The building costs will be covered by the bond.
The city anticipates operating costs will need to be subsidized by other city revenues. Current estimates of up to $850,000 in operational costs have been projected if operated by city staff. Due to an overlap in recreational services saving the city $400,000, the city would need to subsidize up to $450,000 per year. The YMCA could operate the facility with limited subsidy. The city also projects revenues and reserves to be sufficient to cover by the time we build.
Camas residents that pay taxes towards the center will pay lower membership and/or user fees.
Location:
The city’s preliminary analysis shows the proposed site will meet traffic, parking needs and protect the environment.
The roundabout at the intersection of Lake and Everett will be completed prior to the community center and will address congestion at that location.
This project has separate funding (partially by the state). If the project passes, the city will do further analysis regarding the site and are prepared to move the facility to another location if a better site is found.
Alternative sites were mentioned as previously being evaluated and/or discussed, and some will continue to be evaluated.
Crown Park:
Estimates to provide very basic and temporary repairs to the pool were $300,000. Over $2 mil was estimated for significant renovations with uncertain longevity. A replacement pool in in the same location was estimated to cost over $3.5 mil.
A new modern pool on the site could not be supported by adequate parking and we would only be able to operate it 10 to 11 weeks out of the year. The city is still committed to a master plan for Crown Park. This will be phased in over multiple years, beginning with a replacement basketball court next year.
If the proposition passes, the city wants to hear from the community as they proceed with the project. They will form advisory committees for the various aspects of the project and will hold additional open houses to share progress and gain feedback.
https://cdn.lacamasmagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/07/07080550/AB06A219-14C5-490A-ABF0-BEE4E24A1F4C.jpeg8761889Ernest Geigenmillerhttps://cdn.lacamasmagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/07074147/lacamas_white_2-300x300.pngErnest Geigenmiller2019-10-03 12:56:192019-10-03 12:56:33News Recap: Camas Community Aquatics Center Open House
To celebrate 65 years in business, One Stop Home Furnishings just kicked off a four-week sale that includes great deals, gift cards, and some amazing weekly giveaways.
Starting today and running until November 2, the One Stop team is offering discounts on merchandise throughout the store.
“Need a new sofa, recliner, dining set, or mattress? This month is a good time to buy,” said co-owner, Dave Fletcher. “Most of our items in the showroom can be purchased right off the floor, and we’ll deliver it to you. We have coffee, cookies, and other goodies to enjoy when you visit.”
If you bring a friend, and they spend $500 or more you both will get a $25 VISA gift card. If they
spend $1000, you both will get a $50 VISA gift card in addition to their anniversary sale prices.
Free Weekly Drawings
Each week there will be drawings:
Week 1) Southern Motion recliner
Week 2) Sofa by Stanton
Week 3) Queen mattress set by Beautyrest
Week 4) Basket of bed accessories by Bedgear
Week 5) Dining set by Ashley
How do you enter for the free drawing?
Fill out the little entry form and put it in the fish bowl. A name will be picked each Saturday at the
end of the day on October 5th, 12th, 19th, 26th and November 2.
“October is a good time to think ahead for the holidays,” said co-owner, Molly Fletcher. “If you order soon enough, we can customize your new furniture and have it in time for the holidays.”
https://cdn.lacamasmagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/10/07075435/9B37DE67-F72F-4D48-AAEE-D606D82BA378-scaled.jpeg13832560Ernest Geigenmillerhttps://cdn.lacamasmagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/07074147/lacamas_white_2-300x300.pngErnest Geigenmiller2019-10-02 16:53:082019-10-02 16:53:19One Stop Home Furnishings Celebrates 65(!) Years With Big Sale
Seattle, WA — Camas High School Football Head Coach Jon Eagle was just named Seattle Seahawks Coach of the Week, announced Joe Cronin, Committee Chair for the Seattle Seahawks Coach and Youth of the Week/Year Program.
“Great job this season!” said Cronin. “Always fun to follow the Papermakers. Keep up the great work. Each week during the high school football season, the Seahawks and the Washington State Football Coaches Association select two high school football coaches as the Coach of the Week winners. Congratulations on the season thus far! The Camas Papermakers are off to great start and a huge part of that is your leadership. Nice victory over Bellevue.”
In being named a Seahawks Coach of the Week Eagle will receive:
1. $500 donation to the Camas football program.
2. Framed certificate signed by Seahawks Head Coach Pete Carroll.
3. Named on the Seahawks website as a Seattle Seahawks Coach of the Week, along with the WSFCA website.
4. Receive two tickets to a home football game later this season and be recognized on the field with the other Seattle Seahawks Coaches of the Week recipients.
Eagle has worked tirelessly for years and always gives credit to his fellow coaches and the players.
“I’m not out there on the field doing the hard work,” said Eagle in a recent interview. “These hard-working players are. Our coaching staff is amazing.”
The Seahawks also issued the following statement:
“The Camas Papermakers defeated the Bellevue Wolverines 24-7 in a big non-league game. Coach Eagle has the Papermakers at 4-0 following wins over Lincoln, Hazen and West Valley. Under the leadership of Coach Eagle the Camas Papermakers have been a perennial state contender and a dominant team in the 4A classification. The Papermakers always play with tremendous character, discipline and sportsmanship. Coach Eagle has been a long time member of the WSFCA and is heavily involved.”
https://cdn.lacamasmagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/10/07075440/E178995C-9B93-4CC3-9AC1-D778F8ACCFB3-scaled.jpeg8372560Ernest Geigenmillerhttps://cdn.lacamasmagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/07074147/lacamas_white_2-300x300.pngErnest Geigenmiller2019-10-01 15:34:232019-10-01 15:34:33Camas Football Coach Jon Eagle Named Seahawks Coach of the Week
Vancouver, Wash. — In observance of Domestic Violence Awareness month in October, Vancouver Police Department personnel will be wearing purple ribbon lapel pins to show their support of domestic violence victims and raise awareness about domestic, spousal, and teen dating violence. The department has also outfitted a vehicle with a purple police logo which will be driven to community events and presentations where officers will be providing information on domestic violence, the danger signs of this crime and resources for victims.
Domestic violence affects millions of men and women of every race, age, religion, culture and status. Domestic violence is not just physical violence; it’s yelling, humiliation, stalking, manipulation, coercion, threats and isolation. Since the Violence Against Women Act was signed into law in 1994, over $7 billion in federal grants have been sent to state and local governments to facilitate programs that prevent domestic violence, sexual assault and dating violence. The Vancouver Police Department has been the recipient of multiple grants related to domestic violence and sexual assault prevention and police response and investigation of these crimes.
Statistics around domestic violence:
On a typical day, more than 20,000 phone calls are placed to domestic violence hotlines
1 in 15 children are exposed to intimate partner violence each year and 90% of those are witnesses
1 in 3 women and 1 in 14 men have been victims of physical violence by an intimate partner
19% of domestic violence involves a weapon
1 in 3 high school students experience either physical or sexual violence, or both by someone they are dating
More than half of women (69.5%) and men (53.6%) who have been physically or sexually abused or stalked by a dating partner, first experienced abuse between the ages of 11-24
If you are afraid your internet and/or computer usage might be monitored, please use a safer computer, or call the local hotline at the YWCA Safe Choice (360)-695-0501, the Washington State Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-562-6025 or the National Domestic Violence Hotline: 1-800-799-SAFE(7233) or TTY 1-800-787-3224.
Deanna Rusch is running this Fall to retain her Camas City Council, Ward 1 seat, a position she has held since January 2018. We sat down with Rusch to answer a few questions.
1. What are the primary reasons you’re running?
Camas is an amazing place to work, live and play, and I’m grateful to have had the opportunity to serve for the last two years. We have important work yet to do, and I’m running to help continue it. From supporting our first responders to keeping our parks open and clean – I’ve enjoyed bringing the priorities of the people of Camas to life. I want to continue the hard work of attracting and retaining jobs in the city, and making sure our downtown is a vibrant hub for all our neighbors to patronize our small businesses. I’ll continue to serve with integrity in collaboration with our citizens and stakeholders. I’ll continue to meet with constituents over the phone or over a cup of coffee about any issue that is affecting them – I like to make sure everyone is heard and I’ve always made myself available to hear concerns or ideas.
2. What have you learned the most since taking office?
I’ve learned the details of how city government works. The way we fund projects, staffing, parks, roads, sewer, water, etc. And the way we collect revenue to support all city services. Contrary to popular belief, the city doesn’t get a windfall of property taxes. Of the taxes we all pay, the city gets a small percentage after funds go to the schools, library, fire/EMS, etc. It’s been interesting to learn and to challenge ourselves to meet citizen expectations about services and levels of service while also monitoring cost and how to fund things.
3. What is the October 1 event at Grains of Wrath all about?
The event at Grains of Wrath is a celebration and a thank you to all of my supporters. It’s a time to mingle with friends and neighbors and enjoy the great ambience, food, and drink GOW and Downtown have to offer. It starts at 5. We will have some special guests say a few words and I will be there to chat with anyone. I try very hard to be accessible to all citizens and welcome anyone to contact me at any time at 360-980-1261.
https://cdn.lacamasmagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/09/07075457/D2744CDE-C5A0-4B8C-934F-C0ABB64C9D6B.jpeg3991051Ernest Geigenmillerhttps://cdn.lacamasmagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/07074147/lacamas_white_2-300x300.pngErnest Geigenmiller2019-09-29 14:38:232019-09-29 15:32:11Meet the Candidate: City Council Member Rusch Explains Why She’s Running
I live just outside the City of Camas in rural Clark County, but if I were in the city, I’d be voting no on the proposed $78 million city owned swimming pool. It’s not government’s role to build recreational aquatic centers that unfairly compete with the private sector. $78 million for a community pool? (Editor’s Note: the total bond is asking for $78 million; the estimated pool build cost is $37 million). That’s outrageous! Residents are already overtaxed today between local levies for fire districts, local school levies and bonds, libraries, and enormous never-before-seen gigantic property tax hikes passed by the Washington State Legislature to fund massive public education increases. Where does it end? Most people are fed up with their property tax bill as it is.
Furthermore, imagine how much it will cost annually to maintain and operate a $78 million recreational pool! Where is that money going to come from? Don’t forget about all those new government workers that will also be needed to operate the facility. They come with huge legacy costs, not just new salaries, but new pensions and new benefit costs that taxpayers will be on the hook to pay for.
If the recreational aquatics center is such a brilliant idea, why aren’t private sector businesses clamoring to get in on this business model?
Instead of building extravagant public swimming pools that most citizens cannot afford, I recommend city leaders focus on attracting more family wage jobs to our industrial areas so that more residents can work where they live. In doing so, more industries will help shoulder the property tax burden now crushing many of our working families. More good jobs in Camas will also reduce commuter traffic on SR 14 and across the river into Oregon. City leaders would also be wise to prioritize improving transportation congestion within the city to manage the choke points resulting from the thousands of new houses they keep approving! Quality of life in and around Camas is diminishing from traffic problems at peak times.
Camas has been a beautiful place to live for many generations of working class families. With recent actions, it almost appears as if City leaders want to relegate Camas forever as an overpriced bedroom community where only the wealthiest families can afford to live. There’s an election coming up. City taxpayers should pay attention to those on the ballot that continue to advocate for higher spending as opposed to those who insist Camas live within its means.
Pike is a three-term Washington State Representative.
Portland, Ore. — More than 1,500 Cycle Oregon cyclists rolled into Oakridge, Ore., on September 14, completing a seven-day, 430-mile ride through Central Oregon. The flagship ride of Cycle Oregon, the Classic gave participants scenic views of many Oregon natural wonders including the Cascade Mountains and Crater Lake, and the warm hospitality of numerous small towns, including Cottage Grove, La Pine and Diamond Lake – all rolled into a festival-like atmosphere.
The Classic finish also marked the end of a successful season year for Cycle Oregon, a Portland-based nonprofit organization dedicated to transforming individuals and communities through bicycling. Cycle Oregon’s three signature events included: Classic (Sept. 7-14, 2019); GRAVEL, a weekend gravel ride based out of Dufur, Ore. (May 17-19, 2019); and Joyride, a one-day, women-only ride based out of Independence, Ore. (June 22, 2019). Each distinct ride enabled cyclists of all abilities to explore the state’s renowned natural beauty on two wheels, plus connected them with the people, places and businesses of many rural Oregon towns.
All in all, more than 2,400 cyclists from 42 states and seven countries participated in Cycle Oregon’s three 2019 rides, which totaled more than 675 miles and 43,000 feet of elevation gain and contributed hundreds of thousands of dollars to local economies. The three events directly supported eight rural Oregon communities through the hiring of local groups for event support and local spending by cyclists. Cycle Oregon annually provides approximately $160,000 to community groups for the services they provide, ranging from event planning to volunteer organizing.
I marvel at how Cycle Oregon can double a population, be so professional and then be gone before we know it, leaving everyone with a smile on their face,” said Ann Gawith, Executive Director, La Pine Chamber of Commerce. “Even thought they were here for less than 24 hours, these cyclists really impacted our small town. Everyone was busy, from our restaurants and motels to our gas stations – and even our florist! And it was great to see our bike lanes filled with cyclists. Cycle Oregon was a fantastic experience for La Pine.”
“Even though Cycle Oregon is now over 30 years old, each ride feels fresh and exciting. The riders bring such positive energy to the state,” said Steve Schulz, Executive Director of Cycle Oregon. “We are incredibly grateful to all the communities across Oregon who welcomed our riders with open arms. While we have undeniably spectacular scenery that was showcased by our 2019 rides – from the eastern end of the Columbia River Gorge to the beautiful Willamette Valley to Central Oregon and the stunning Cascade Mountains and Crater Lake National Park – it’s really the people that make Oregon special.”
Discounted early registration for the 2020 Classic ride is now open online at www.cycleoregon.com, although the routes for all the 2020 events will not be revealed until the 2020 kick-off party on January 29, 2020.
Cycle Oregon’s dedication to transforming lives through cycling is perhaps most visible in the projects around the state in which the Cycle Oregon Fund has invested. This fall, the Cycle Oregon Fund will award approximately $100,000 to local nonprofits working to preserve and protect the special places of Oregon and implement community development projects. Organizations are encouraged to submit applications now through October 21.
Cycle Oregon.
The Cycle Oregon Fund is supported by proceeds from the organization’s rides and managed by the Oregon Community Foundation. Over the last 20 years, the Fund has awarded more than 300 grants totaling $2.2 million, supporting projects ranging from bike racks in Baker City and Yachats to helping purchase land for the Wallowa Band Nez Perce Trail Interpretive Center.
The Fund supports projects and programs throughout Oregon in three key areas: Environmental Conservation and Historic Preservation, Bicycle Safety & Tourism and Community Projects. Complete guidelines and an online application are available at cycleoregon.com/our-work/our-impact/.
About The Organization
Cycle Oregon is a nonprofit organization dedicated to transforming individuals and communities through bicycling. For riders who want an unparalleled Oregon bicycle experience at their own pace, they hosts a series of fully supported rides that offer a unique perspective of the state, all the while managing every last detail. Established in 1988, Cycle Oregon’s 30-plus years of event logistics and deep roots within the state create an authentic Oregon experience that strengthens communities—on and off the bike. Cycle Oregon attracts more than 4,500 riders from all 50 states and around the world. www.cycleoregon.com #ridecycleoregon
Dozens of supporters from near and far gathered at the Camas High School Main Commons Saturday evening to attend the 6th Camas High School (CHS) Hall of Fame Induction Banquet.
Attendees were greeted by the CHS Marching Band, Cheer Squad and a hearty welcome by Marcia Johnson, the Athletic Hall of Fame Chairperson; then treated to a delicious dinner and a series of tributes and official induction ceremonies.
Six individuals, and two teams were honored during the two-hour Hall of Fame event.
Lauren Rainey, Class of 1948 Introduced by John Skimas and accepted by Barbara Rainey Runyan.
Lauren played basketball, football, and baseball. In his senior year, Lauren set all the scoring records in basketball and led his team to the Washington State Basketball tournament that year. At the State tournament, he averaged 18 points per game! Lauren was also named to the All-Conference Basketball teams during his junior and senior seasons. In addition, Lauren contributed to the 1948 baseball team during his senior year.
Les Morsach, Class of 1958 Introduced by Tom Wallenborn.
From 1955-1958, Morsach played football, basketball, and track. He was a three-year starting varsity quarterback. He was the first Camas QB to lead team to a state championship. Morsach was a SW Washington first team All-Star QB two years in a row. Led team in passing yardage and passing touchdowns all three years, and received a football scholarship from Yakima Community College. He also participated in basketball, where he was a starting guard and in track, where he set school pole vault records.
Donald Huston, Class of 1961 Introduced by his brother, Denny Huston, who said “good coaches teach how to win.”
Huston played baseball and basketball. Two-sport star at Camas High School. He was the starting guard his junior and senior year where he was All League each year. He averaged 12.7 points per game, the assist leader, team captain and always assigned to defend the opponent’s top player. During his senior year, the team record was 19-1 and went to the State tournament for the first time since 1947. Huston also participated in baseball, starting at second base both his junior and senior years. Don then went on to play college basketball at Western Washington University followed by a career in coaching basketball for 25 years.
Bob Cameron, Class of 1971 Introduced by Doug Slyter.
Cameron competed in five sports: wrestling, football, basketball, baseball, and track. He earned 10 Varsity letters during his high school career, and during his sophomore year he qualified for the Washington state wrestling tournament, and in the spring he lettered for the baseball team; at the time a rare accomplishment. His senior year accomplishments included football team MVP, Team Captain, “Black Helmet Award” recipient and All league; baseball MVP, Team Captain, All League and Clark County All-Star; Basketball Team Captain. He was named Outstanding Athlete for CHS his senior year.
Brent Richards, Class of 2008 Introduced by Coach Roland Minder.
Brent Richards.
“Brent was quickly the team’s top scorer and won the All-League Academic Award. He was a huge part of our success in earning the State title that year,” said Minder. “He was all about the team. I felt a special bond with Brent and we felt the refiner’s fire. He scored 26 goals with 10 assists his senior year and earned a 4.0 GPA. He was the Columbia Region Player of the Year.”
Career stats: 83 goals, 32 assists. Freshman year: Varsity Offensive Player of the Year, All-Academic Award (3.95 GPA), 2nd Team All-League, League Champion. Sophomore year: Team won State Championship, All Academic Team (3.76 GPA). Junior year: Injured. Senior year: Gatorade State Player of the Year, Regional Player of the Year, and All-League Scholar Athlete (4.0 GPA). Brent also won the State Tournament Player of the Year where his high school team won the state championship. He was drafted by the Portland Timbers and played professional soccer for 10 years.
“There were a lot of people that were inspirational to me, I’m so thankful I got to grow up in this community,” said Richards. “Thank you.”
Coach Roland Minder Introduced by Steve Hogan.
Coach Minder started his CHS soccer coaching career in 1993 as an assistant in the girls’ program until he was named the head coach in 2004 and served until 2018. He was the boys’ head coach from 1995 to 2017. In 38 seasons as head coach, his teams earned 30 League championships, won 24 District championships, had 33 WIAA State tournament appearances, 22 WIAA State Quarterfinal appearances, 14 WIAA tournament Final Four appearances, eight WIAA state championship game appearances, and earned five WIAA State championships!
Coach Roland Minder at Friday’s football halftime show.
Minder has been awarded: League Coach of the Year, Washington State Coach of the Year, NSCAA Regional Coach of the Year, NFHS Sectional Coach of the Year in 2011, NSCAA National Coach of the Year in 2016. His combined record for the boys and girls is: 589 wins, 106 losses and 46 ties.
“The game of soccer has always been an integral part of my life growing up in Switzerland,” said Minder. “It was a long road in building this soccer program. My first priority was to get the club and the high school to work together. It took a while, but we eventually started having success. I was lucky to be in the right place at the right time. I dare describe it as a movement … This award is because of so many people, and represents all those who worked so hard for so many years.”
2005 Girls’ Soccer Team Introduced by Minder.
They won the State Title in 2005, the first time for a Clark County team.
“They’re the greatest girls soccer team to ever play at Camas High,” said Minder.
2006 Boys’ Soccer Team Introduced by Minder.
The won the State Title in 2006.
“This age group was special,” said Minder. “The coaches had a great rapport with the high school and we all looked forward to the year. Our nemesis was Columbia River, which caused us to place second in league … We defeated Lakeside for the title. I still remember the coach after the game from Lakeside because they were all over us … We had all the players behind the ball and we just defended, defended, defended. It was a phenomenal effort. We had skilled players but we had a great team effort. Everyone bought into the program and this team made history. It was the only time that both the girls and boys teams won a State Title in the same school year.”
At the conclusion, Johnson addressed the audience.
“I want to thank everyone for coming, and for your support,” said Johnson, who organized the event. “I just want to give a special thanks to the Hall of Fame committee. I couldn’t do this without your support. We select teams by application so you have to be nominated. I carry nominations from year to year and we go through tons of information and we select people we feel deserve it for that year. I also want to thank the Camas Athletics Booster Club. It takes a lot of money to do this.”
Camas Hall of Fame Inductees at Friday’s football game.
https://cdn.lacamasmagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/09/07075528/C385CFB7-F8BC-4855-B168-D7E748A861EA-scaled.jpeg10262560Ernest Geigenmillerhttps://cdn.lacamasmagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/07074147/lacamas_white_2-300x300.pngErnest Geigenmiller2019-09-21 20:30:542019-09-21 21:20:17Camas Hall of Fame Inducts Stellar Alumni, Former Coach at 6th Banquet
It was standing room only at Thursday’s annual Camas State of the Community at Lacamas Lake Lodge, which featured addresses from Port of Camas Washougal Director Dave Ripp, City of Camas Mayor Shannon Turk, and Camas School District Superintendent Jeff Snell.
Camas School District School Board President, Doug Quinn, served as Master of Ceremonies while the Camas School Orchestra (Rose Hinchliff, Ireland McGree, and Luke Martinez) performed the prelude music and Autumn Sterle sang the National Anthem.
State of the Port of Camas Washougal
At the onset of his address, Ripp said the Port receives income from three sources: 1) Grove Field airport ($153,837 net); 2) The CW Marina ($417,859 net); and 3) Property/commerce center leases ($1,660,988 net).
Ripp then discussed the Port’s work on the Washougal waterfront development.
“We’ve been working on this since 2010,” said Ripp. “The site was originally a lumber mill, which closed down. We wanted to do something that enhances what’s there and have the public enjoy it.”
He explained obtaining the site was possible through a grant, which has two phases: 1) Cleanup; and 2) Planning. In 2014, the Port did the full cleanup, and in 2015, they built the park and trail, and purchased the remaining portion of the Killian site. Once the trail was finished, they looked at master planning, hired an outside firm, and then presented the public with three options, all of which include public access to the waterfront.
Master plan at Washougal Waterfront.
“In 2021 we want to put a shovel in the ground to get it moving,” said Ripp. “On June 7, the natural play area was opened to the public on June 7. This is our crown jewel of waterfront trail park.”
Ripp then explained the growth and success of the Steigerwald Commerce Center, which received $3 million in grants allowing the Port to double the building’s size. Six businesses are presently there, and the center is operating at 100 percent occupancy. They are now looking at Building 19, a 27,000 square foot facility purchased this year.
The new roundabouts are very helpful with business trade at the Commerce Center, said Ripp, though he acknowledges neighbor frustration.
State of the City of Camas
In her first State of the Community address, Mayor Shannon Turk spoke about four topics:
Infrastructure improvements
Economic development
Recreation opportunities
Communication
“The infrastructure improvements that we will be working on this year enhance safety and traffic flow on our roads and ensure the availability of clean water.”
Significant improvements will be made on Brady Road from 16th Avenue to Pacific Rim Boulevard, which include the following:
Widening the roadway
Addition of bike lanes
Street lighting and landscaping
Center turn lane/median
Utility work begins this fall thru winter
Final work/paving — late summer 2020
A two-million-gallon reservoir will be built at NW 18th and Tidland to help the city maintain its commitment to providing clean, quality water to all areas of the city.
Turk also provided an update on the Lake/Everett Road roundabout, scheduled for construction from 2020 to 2021, and showed a fly-over traffic simulation, as seen here: https://youtu.be/iFlQ51XrSyM
The North shore subarea plan (the area north of Lacamas Lake) furthers the vision of our city leaders in the 1980s, she said, and is “setting up our city for the next three to four decades.” The area contains 800 acres of land, of which 160 acres is owned by the city for legacy land open spaces and land preservation (along the north shore).
The North Shore plan creates new developments including homes, shops, and master planned commercial development.
“It shows where we need to invest,” said Turk. “Visit www.camasnorthshore.com, where you can learn more or provide input by taking a survey.”
During the next portion of her talk, recreation opportunities, Turk discussed the Community Aquatics Center and Sports Field bond measure. The 78,000-square-foot multi-use facility includes a recreational pool, lap/competitive pool, community spaces, multipurpose gym, locker rooms, child watch area, and many other amenities. Turk worked with Camas City Council to put this project to vote, known as Proposition 2, on the November ballot. During her presentation, she explained the need for the new facilities, cited decades-long support for the project, and encouraged all Camas residents to continue to provide input on the design, location, and features of the project, which will continue to be refined after November 5.
“This provides an opportunity for seniors to be active and socialize, as part of an aging-in-place strategy,” said Turk. “It gives our children and teens an opportunity to play sports for fun through intramural programs, increasing their activity and connecting them with friends, instead of what they hold in their hand. And it allows us to ensure that all of our children in our city know how to swim and view our community center as a destination for fun diving, instead of swinging off rope swings or jumping off rocks. This is a 78,000-square-foot facility that is designed to highlight the natural surroundings. This is our concept and it is beautiful. That does not mean that things will not be tweaked or changed, but right now this looks awesome.”
“We did put a bond on the ballot and we are asking you to pay for this,” said Turk. “There’s $72 million for the center, $37.2 million of that amount goes to building the facility itself. The rest goes to offsite and onsite improvements including parking at Heritage Park, a roundabout that will help you get in and out of Heritage Park and proposed Community Center easily. It includes a light at Lake Road and Sierra … These costs are in here.”
Turk said the ballot measure also includes $6 million in sports field renovations (new turf, fields, and lighting).
Contractors will be selected for the project through a bidding process. The city expects to receive competitive bids, which will likely come in significantly lower than the estimated $78 million price tag. Private donations could further lower the overall cost. If the final price tag of the project is indeed less, the city will reduce the projected tax rate of $1.04 per $1,000 in assessed property value, and collect fewer taxes from residents. (Any new taxes would not start until 2021.)
Moving on to the final topic her presentation, Turk explained the city’s commitment to improving city communications. She emphasized the reintroduction of council ward meetings, as well as the inclusion of more open house events, surveys, social media posts, and project mailers.
Turk also introduced Camas 101, which is an eight-class program, starting in January 2020, that includes the following:
Learn more about your city
History of Camas
Role of Mayor and City Council
How projects are determined and funded
What the city actually does
Creating a connected and engaged community — wants people to learn about local non-profits.
“We instituted ward meetings in the spring and will do more in the Fall,” said Turk.
State of Camas School District
“Our focus this year is writing our collective story,” said Snell. “You give your best into that school year with all your hopes and dreams. You take each year’s lessons and apply them to the next year. We get to shape what those stories look like. We see and serve each student. Each means each of you will get something out of this.”
He’s also pleased that Helen Baller Special Education teacher, Amy Campbell, was named as Teacher of the Year.
“We’re excited she gets a platform to advocate for special education and to represent Camas School District,” said Snell. “I can’t think of a better person to do that.”
Snell provided a review of the challenges that McCleary legislation created, the stress it placed on levies and that they will continue to work within these constraints.
“We want to inspire them to be learners,” he said. “Standardized tests are one thing, but we need to do the very best we can with our students. They will be making decisions about our community and world.”
He said the Garver Theatre is coming back online from the 2016 bond.
https://cdn.lacamasmagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/09/07075602/C8E5A7EA-03BD-4BD0-BBE9-93E2C8913A48-scaled.jpeg12262560Ernest Geigenmillerhttps://cdn.lacamasmagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/07074147/lacamas_white_2-300x300.pngErnest Geigenmiller2019-09-21 16:23:162019-09-21 16:23:39Local Leaders Speak at 2019 Camas State of the Community Event
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