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History: Hughey Gift Will Help Tell Stories of Camas-Washougal Past

Washougal, WA — The driving curiosity and love of history of the late Curtis Hughey continues to have a significant impact on the future of the Camas-Washougal Historical Society (CWHS) and the Two Rivers Heritage Museum.

Hughey, long-time historian and 16-year president of the CWHS, passed away November 25, 2017.  His son, Mark, recently bestowed volumes of research notes and a complete second set of Camas-Washougal Homestead Records complied and organized by his father.

“It is a treasure trove of historic information,” said Brian McClatchie, CWHS Board Member and Accessions Director.  “In my opinion this research and notes are the most important records we have for telling stories of the people of Camas-Washougal.  Much of it we did not even know existed until it was dropped off for us.”

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Sorted alphabetically by last name, the Homestead Record notebooks cover property from Cape Horn to 192nd Ave in East Vancouver.  They feature land records, court documents, affidavits, verbatim testimony from homesteaders and their witnesses, newspaper clippings and additional family information that Hughey collected and organized.  These records have been used extensively by researchers who come to the museum for information on area families and property.

“You can look at official homestead land records, but they don’t tell the story” McClatchie said.  “It is all the rest of the information that Curtis compiled that is the most meaningful in storytelling.”

This second set of Homestead notebooks will be offered to the Clark County Historical Museum to be added to their collection.

In addition to the Homestead documents, Hughey also used excerpts from local newspapers written by and about local residents, to author and publish two books, The Good Old Days 1877-1906 and Good Old LaCamas News, 1887-1892.  “The donation included eight notebooks of historical research documentation and his notes used for writing these books,” explained McClatchie.

Born in 1929, Hughey came to Camas in 1946 with his mother to live with his grandparents.  He graduated from Camas High School that year.  He was active in civic work and was involved in the start of the Fern Prairie Fire Department.  Hughey retired from the Camas Papermill in 1991 and began dabbling in genealogy research.  He and his wife, Bev, were very active in CWHS activities and worked at the museum for many years. Hughey left the CWHS Board in early 2017 and it was McClatchie, in fact, who filled the empty seat.  “I never had the chance to meet Curtis,” McClatchie said.

Hughey’s work will be used extensively to build stories for the museum’s new Gathering Place project, a plank house-inspired pavilion to help tell stories of the Native Americans and early pioneers of the area.

“We are finding so many remarkable stories to be told from this research,” McClatchie said.  “There are even some early accounts of Dr. Parker and the founding of Parkers Landing. Curtis’ work was a true labor of love, and one that our historical society will be forever grateful for.”

Community members who have artifacts, historic documents or information that helps to tell the story of the area are encouraged to consider donating those items to the museum.  McClatchie has office hours at the museum each Friday from 11 a.m to 2 p.m. for accessioning.

“People can just give me a call or swing by and we can talk about what they have and if it would be of interest to the museum,” McClatchie offered. “I can tell pretty quickly in a conversation if it is something we’d like to accession. We need to avoid duplication and ensure items we accept have a strong tie to the area.  We appreciate community members offering us items of historic value knowing that they are often a family treasure as well.”

The Two Rivers Heritage Museum is located at 1 Durgan Street in Washougal and open March through October.  Regular hours are Thursday through Saturday from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.  Admission costs are $5 for adults, $4 for seniors, $2 for students and free for children under 5 and all CWHS members.  Group tours are available any day of the week (by appointment only).  Call Lois Cobb 360-835-5449 for scheduling.

Join CWHS to help support additional historic presentations and preservation of local history. Membership and volunteer information will be available at the presentation.  For more information about the CWHS and the Two Rivers Heritage Museum go to www.2rhm.com.

Hughey

Brian McClatchie, of the Camas-Washougal Historical Society.

 

Hughey

Two Rivers Heritage Museum.

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State Baseball Tournament: Camas 12U Boys Defeat Salmon Creek; Play Tonight

Sedro-Wooley, WA — The Camas 12U All-Star baseball team is now 3-1 at State after defeating neighboring Salmon Creek Little League Tuesday night, 7-5.

Once again, Camas bats were hot and their All-Stars scored immediately.  Base hits by Trevor Wong, Owen Meyer, and Andrew Kralj brought in three runs in the top of the first inning.  Jacob Swenson, who ended up throwing for 5 innings, came in as the starting pitcher for Camas.

The All-Stars baseball team scored one more run in the top of the second inning, making the score 4-0.  Swenson only gave up one run in the first two innings, but Salmon Creek rallied at the bottom of the third inning and came back scoring four runs to tie up the game 4-4.

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Camas didn’t give up.  Wong hit an RBI triple in the top 4th inning, allowing Cade Gehlen to score the go-ahead run.  Another RBI single by Thomas Clute put Camas up by two.  Salmon Creek answered with another run in the bottom of the fourth inning.  A RBI triple by lead-off batter Gehlen brought in special pinch runner, Brevin Pike, in the top of the 5th.  Relief pitcher, Owen Meyer, came in at the bottom of the 6th inning.  Along with Meyer’s two strike-outs, the Camas defense held Salmon Creek, winning the game 7-5.

Camas will face Sammamish Little League Wednesday at 6:30 pm in game #20 of the Washington State Championship tournament.  This will be game five for Camas, and it is a must-win.

Article written by Liz Geigenmiller

State Baseball Tournament Photos

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There’s Road Work In Progress On SR500, Everett, Leadbetter

WSDOT REPAVING OF SR 500 Alert has been provided by the City of Camas.

Earlier this summer, the City of Camas shared the details of the SR 500 repaving project by the Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT). The project will improve the area from Washougal River Bridge, just south of downtown, to the intersection of SR 500 / Everett Street and SE Leadbetter Road, just north of NE 43rd Ave.

Here are the latest details:

  • July 23 – 27: Construction of new ADA-compliant ramps and electrical work on traffic signals.
  • July 30 – August 3: Paving begins with the 3 bridges on the project.
  • August 13 – 17: Paving of the roadway.

The City of Camas is asking the public to note the following:

  • Expect delays of up to 20 minutes throughout the construction zone.
  • All work is weather dependent.

There are several ways to track the project and receive updates through WSDOT. Please review the related article on www.cityofcamas.us

Road

SR500 Repaving

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State Baseball Update: Camas 12U All-Stars Defeat Bainbridge (Game 3)

Sedro-Wooley, WA — After losing a tight baseball game Sunday against Pacific, the Camas Little League 12U All-Star’s team (2-1 at State) came back Monday night to defeat Bainbridge Island, 6-5 in the double elimination Washington State Little League Championships.

It was a fun baseball night. The boys came out swinging Monday night with a 2-run single by Thomas Clute and a sac fly by Andrew Kralj, which scored four runs for Camas at the top of the first inning.  Camas pitcher, Jake Swenson, had two strikeouts and held Bainbridge Island to one run to end the first inning.

Trevor Wong came into pitch for Camas at the top of the second and would pitch the rest of the game.  Camas was able to hold Bainbridge Island to a single run until the bottom of the fourth inning, when they rallied and scored four runs, putting Bainbridge Island ahead 5-4.

Camas didn’t let up.

The Camas All-Stars loaded the bases and a base hit by Andrew Kralj brought in the tying run.  With the score tied 5-5, at the top of the top of the 6th, Cade Gehlen started a Camas rally with a double and was able to score the go-ahead run with a hit by Trevor Wong, making the score 6-5.  The Camas defense was able to hold Bainbridge Island for the next three outs winning the game with a final score of 6-5.

The boys have been playing since Saturday, and face neighboring Salmon Creek (District 6) on Tuesday evening. Since losing Sunday afternoon, Camas has been playing in the loser’s bracket, which is a tougher road to travel.

To learn more, visit www.camasll.com

Article by Liz Geigenmiller

Images

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Camas Implements Stage 3 Voluntary Odd/Even Watering Schedule

Camas, WA — In order to take precautions to preserve its water supply, the City of Camas has issued a voluntary watering schedule. During the peak of the summer season, Camas uses nearly eight million gallons of water per day – which is almost three times as much as the rest of the year.

To conserve its supply, the city is implementing a Stage 3 Voluntary Odd/Even Watering (irrigation) Program for all residential, commercial, and public customers. The program will remain in effect through September 30.

Here are the details of the watering schedule:

  • Addresses ending in an ODD number may water/irrigate outdoors on ODD-numbered days of the month.
  • Addresses ending in an EVEN number may water/irrigate outdoors on EVEN-numbered days of the month.
  • Exceptions are granted for vegetable gardens, newly planted lawns, and potted or hanging plants. These may be watered as needed to prevent damage and protect your investment. Using the water efficiently is always encouraged.

In their public statement, the city is grateful to citizens for their support. All residents are encouraged to conserve water in their homes and businesses. For more information, visit www.cityofcamas.us or contact Utilities Manager Sam Adams at 360-817-1563. His email is: [email protected]

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VFW’s Hitchcock Receives Camas Mayor’s Volunteer Spirit Award

Camas, WA — At Monday’s City Council meeting, longtime Camas resident, Bob Hitchcock, received the Mayor’s Volunteer Spirit Award.

”Tonight we have the opportunity to honor somebody we’ve been watching through his volunteer work in the community for many, many years,” said Camas Mayor, Scott Higgins.  “Tonight’s recipient is extremely involved in a lot of things to do with military service as a member of the Veterans of Foreign Wars here in town, and he works very hard with that group of folks.  I would say if you were looking for one word to describe him is PATRIOTISM. When you see flags on the streets for special holidays, such as Flag Day, or Independence Day, you might think that’s a city service, but it’s a volunteer service … and Bob is part of that … It contributes to the specialness of our town.”

Higgins recognized Hitchcock’s work with the Wreaths Across America program, which has the goal of placing wreaths on every veteran’s grave at Camas Cemetery.

“You will see him at the Camas Days Parade … and, years ago he and his wife were honored as King and Queen of Camas Days in 2010, and they continue to use their energy and time to not look at their own needs, but to look at the needs of this community,” said Higgins. “And they do what they can to encourage giving and to be patriotic … Thank you, Bob.”

Hitchcock then addressed the council.

”With the Wreaths Across America … our goal is to get a wreath on every grave [at the Camas Cemetery] and right now we’re talking 857,” said Hitchcock. “Last year, we did 400, so we’re half way there. It comes around every year during the second week of December. We have the scouts participate, and the community gets involved. Thank you again for this.”

 

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Speedo Sectionals: Wu, CRST Compete With College Swimmers

Gresham, OR — The Columbia River Swim Team (CRST) had their best showing ever at the annual Speedo Sectionals meet at Mt. Hood Community College this past weekend, with Camas High School’s two-time State champion, Eric Wu, leading the way.

The team itself earned more than 300 points, and Wu’s performance in the 100 Fly Finals earned him a berth on the awards podium. He also earned a personal best time, and set a team record in the 200 IM (2.11.13).

Top college and high school athletes from 11 states convened at Mt. Hood CC in a meet that lasted four days — Thursday through Sunday — to test how far these swimmers can go.

Wu’s big success of the meet was the 100 Fly, in which he earned eighth place while competing against college athletes several years older.

“Every moment leading up to the 100 Fly was nerve-racking,” said Wu. “I just barely made the big A final. I would be swimming with all the big college kids in the heat. After I swam, it was a sense of relief mixed with frustration since I missed the Summer national cut by .2 seconds.”

“I did something different training for the 100 Fly this year,” he added. “In addition to swimming fly every available moment in practice, I also did the 200 Fly in every meet this season. The 200 Fly being double the 100 allowed me to build the base and endurance I needed to finish the 100 Fly strongly. I believe that just swimming so much fly throughout the season gave me the back half I needed to drop so much time in such a short period of time.”

Wu

Eric Wu competes in the 200 IM at Speedo Sectionals.

His coach, Darlene Lumbard, was pleased with his performance this weekend, and with the team’s efforts overall.

“Eric did a fantastic job, and we are so proud of him! He comes from a very academic family and they put academics first,” said Lumbard. “We make exceptions for the specialized classes and work with his schedule. Swimming is important to him but we’ve always given that time he needs for academics. He’s a well-balanced athlete.”

“Swimming and academics go well together,” added Lumbard. “The swimming culture is really academic. It’s a lifetime sport and they know it. It’s a great stress relief. It’s like yoga.”

Lumbard said the team overall exceeded her expectations.

“They bonded so well,” she said. “They get up and they raced together. They all worked hard and swam well.”

Wu

The 400 Free Relay. From left, Wu, Ilya, Tom, and Max.

 

On the 200 IM

“On the last day of a four day prelim final meet, multiple swims wear you out both physically and mentally,” said Wu. “Your body is sore and your mind is weak. Having experiencing this, swimming the 200 IM for the second time on Sunday in itself is an accomplishment. However, dropping time and swimming your best is even better. As I was swimming warm up before my event, I kept thinking to myself I was way too sore and too tired to finish the event, let alone drop time. However, on the outside, Darlene said I looked fine. Physically I was fatigued, but what made me even more tired was thinking that way. Honestly, that’s what makes swimming such a hard sport, it’s not the different strokes you have to swim, or even how much you have to swim, the hardest part about swimming is overcoming your brain telling you you can’t do it.”

Photo Gallery

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Celebrate Independence Day at the Port of Camas-Washougal

Washougal, WA —  It’s Independence Day! The Port of Camas-Washougal is hosting the 2018 Port 4th of July Concert and Celebration at the Washougal Waterfront Park.  This year’s concert lineup features some very talented artists mixing high energy folk-rock with some old time rock and roll.  Bring your family and friends and don’t forget your dancing shoes!!

Activities at Marina Park:

  • Children’s activities begin at 4 pm
  • Beer Garden and food vendors will be present
  • Opening Music: The Junebugs from 6-7:30 pm
  • Headliner: 5 Guys Named Moe from 8:30-10 pm
  • Fireworks begin at 10 pm

 

About the Port

The port brings jobs and recreational opportunities through a 400-acre industrial park, a 77-hangar general aviation airport and 350-slip pleasure boat marina. Grove Field is a small, general aviation airport with a state-of-the-art fueling station and 14 tie-downs. The marina is the largest publicly owned marina on the Washington side of the Columbia River and has a floating restaurant, launch ramp, nearby hotel, fueling station, electricity on the breakwater/guest dock, and is home port to the Dolphin Yacht Club.

Construction of the Washougal Waterfront Park and Trail was completed in October 2017. The industrial park boasts a 100 percent occupancy rate of more than 40 businesses with an annual payroll of $8.9 million and is adjacent to Steigerwald Commerce Center, 100+ acres of property currently under development. The port also manages Captain William Clark Park at Cottonwood Beach, the adjacent protective levee and Parkersville National Historic site.

More information is found at www.portcw.com

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City of Camas to Hold Open House on Crown Park Redesign

Camas, WA — Camas City officials are holding an open house Wednesday, June 27 from 6-8 pm at Lacamas Lodge to present and gather input about a new proposed Crown Park redesign plan.

Late last year, inspectors mandated closing the Crown Park Pool until it meets code, which would require hundreds of thousands of dollars in renovations. The Camas Parks and Recreation team said those renovations would only sustain the pool for a short period of time — and recommended closing the pool all together.

”The pool’s maintenance costs have risen dramatically in recent years,” said Camas City Parks and Recreation Director, Jerry Acheson. “The city subsidizes 50 percent of the pool’s costs.”

The city has been planning for alternatives, and presented various plans last year. They held a public forum this past winter on how to proceed with renovations, and the City Council voted to demolish the 64-year-old pool. A decision on what to put in its place — if anything — has not been determined.

City leaders are inviting the public to participate in Wednesday’s public open house, but supporters of rebuilding or renovating the pool aren’t impressed.

Local supporters of the Crown Park pool and park have created a group called Friends of Crown Park, and they feel their voice isn’t being heard by the city.

“I’m a little miffed over them (the city) repeatedly saying that ‘public input has been integral to the process’ when the massive amount of public input has pointed straight toward the residents’ desire to keep a pool in the park,” said Camas resident, Anastasia McDonnell. “Yet they haven’t taken any of the hundreds of voices across social media platforms, public rallies, and the 1,300+ signatured  petitions to heart in their plans. At all the public hearings I’ve attended there has been zero support for a splash pad.”

To learn more, visit www.cityofcamas.us

Crown Park Pool Memorial

Proposed Redesign

 

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Renae Burson Named New Washougal Schools Assistant Superintendent

Washougal, WA – Renae Burson will be the new Assistant Superintendent for the Washougal School District, effective July 1, 2018.  She has been principal at Gause Elementary since 2016.

“I am excited to continue the good work going on at Washougal School District supporting teachers, students and families but in a different capacity,” Burson said.  “I enjoyed being at Gause and working closely with students.  That every day interaction and relationship I had with them is what I will miss most.”

Burson brings broad experience in educational roles to her new position.  Prior to the principalship in Washougal, she has been a teacher at the elementary and middle school levels, an instructional coach, a K-8 principal, a curriculum coordinator, a special education director, and an AVID district director.  “This background provides a strong basis for the multi-faceted position of Assistant Superintendent,” said Mike Stromme, WSD Superintendent in a June 14 email to staff.  “Renae’s work in education reflects a passion for closing the opportunity gap and providing equitable experiences for every student.”

Burson was named the Shasta County, California Administrator of the Year in 2016, Teacher of the Year for the Mt. Lassen Math Council in 2011 and a California Distinguished Teacher in 2010.  She holds a Master of Science degree in Applied School Leadership.

“I look forward to continuing the district’s focus to meet the needs of every students,” Burson said. “Whether it is instructional materials, AVID or multi-tiered systems, it is all geared for every student’s success.”

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