, , ,

CW Chamber Accepting Application for Business Person, Citizen of the Year

Camas, WA — The Camas Washougal Businessperson and Citizen of the year applications for nomination are now available. Your participation in the nomination process is necessary in order to honor individuals who truly deserve this honor within our community, said Camas-Washougal Chamber of Commerce today.

Here are the specifics:

Who: Citizen of the Year must live in the 98607 or 98671 area codes and have performed volunteer services in the community, which have contributed to an overall positive impact on Camas and/or Washougal. Business Person of the year must work in the 98607 or 98671 area codes and have shown a positive business influence on the Camas-Washougal area. Also, the businessperson must promote the community through any combination of the following: length of service, image, reputation, activities, promotions, growth, or participation in the business organizations. 

When: Application deadline is May 1st at 5 pm in the CW Chamber office at 422 NE 4th Avenue. Email to [email protected]   A banquet to honor the recipients will be held the first week in June. Date and Location to be announced.

Where: You can pick up applications at either the Camas or Washougal Riverview Community Bank branches, or at the Chamber Office. They are also available for download at www.cwchamber.com 

/0 Comments/by
, , ,

Pike Art Gallery Returns to Downtown Camas With Feb. 2 Ribbon Cutting

Camas, WA — Following a 15-year hiatus, local artist Liz Pike is reopening Pike Art Gallery next month in downtown Camas in a shared space with Minuteman Press, located at 302 NE Sixth Avenue. The public is invited to an upscale ribbon cutting ceremony at the new Pike Art Gallery on Thursday, February 2nd at 4:30 pm featuring sumptuous appetizers and beverages.

The ribbon cutting will be conducted by the Camas-Washougal Chamber of Commerce. The new gallery space is at the corner of NE Sixth and Birch Street and will be open Monday through Friday, 9 am to 5 pm and on Saturdays by private appointment. 

“I’m thrilled to be going back to my roots as a downtown gallery owner,” said Pike. “I’m also looking forward to hosting a welcoming First Friday Art reception each month at this new location to unveil my new works of art with the public. I appreciate this unique opportunity to share space with my good friend Jason Young, owner of Minuteman Press.”

Upon implementing efficiencies with the latest technology in full service printing, Minuteman Press has made prime square footage available to Pike for use as an art gallery showroom. 

This new setting is a second location for Pike Art Gallery which opened a few years ago inside a stand- alone building at Pike’s organic Shangri-La Farm in Fern Prairie. She operated the original Pike Art Gallery in downtown Camas from 2005 to 2008 on Dallas Street. 

“Art galleries bring more visitors to Camas which boosts economic activity for our downtown restaurants, retail shops and service merchants,” said Pike. 

Her new gallery adds to the vibrancy of NE Sixth Avenue’s existing businesses which include a popular retail bike store and salon located directly across the street in the Clara Flats building, one of Camas’ newest eco-friendly mixed use buildings with spacious views. 

Pike has been painting in oils on canvas since 1984. Her work has been featured in restaurants in Honolulu where she lived for ten years and most recently at Camas Gallery, which has represented Pike’s original art since 2016. She has been juried into Clark County Open Studios Tour each year since 2017. Pike also shows her work at several regional art festivals including the Fern Prairie Art Fest, Washougal Art Festival, Battle Ground’s Art in the Park, and Camas Vintage and Art Faire. 

Pike can be reached at (360) 281-8720.


Pike
/1 Comment/by
, , ,

‘Nostalgic Sugar’ Art Exhibit by Lara Blair Debuts February 3 For First Friday

Camas, WA – Lara Blair’s newest art collection will debut February 3rd from 4-8 pm in Camas at The Loft art gallery located inside Lara Blair photography. The address is 411 NE Dallas St, Camas, WA. This second show is titled Nostalgic Sugar and features mixed media pieces.

The theme of this current collection came from a look back to the things in Blair’s childhood that made her happy. Donuts, cupcakes, cookies, and oddly, miniature people. It sounds bizarre, but on a gallery wall, it all comes together.

Blair’s ultimate goal as an artist is to delight, amuse and inspire the viewer. She is aware that humans frequently pull from the same nostalgic memory bank to feel joy, especially when enjoying art.

The mediums used in her work are clay, wood, resin, paint, 3D printing and various ephemera to create realistic sweet treats and detailed dioramas.

All work is available for purchase. One piece will be raffled off at the end of the evening on February 3rd.

Blair
Ice cream mini people.
Blair
/0 Comments/by
,

Sports Conspiracy Theories That Could Be True — What Do You Think?

Revisiting certain events from the sporting world could result in you stumbling down a rabbit hole of sports conspiracy theories that could be true.

“Everything is pro wrestling” is an adage people use when explaining an event that lacks legitimacy. We all know professional wrestling has pre-determined outcomes, yet fans suspend their beliefs and enjoy the show. And maybe that’s what the folks behind the sports conspiracy theories that could be truewere also hoping for. 

Michael Phelps’ Gold Rush

There weren’t many bigger names in 2008 than Michael Phelps. The swimmer took the country by storm when he won multiple golds at the Beijing Summer Olympics. Phelps’ end game was to break the record set by fellow American Mark Spitz for most gold medals during a single Olympics.

Everyone knew that the 100m butterfly would be his most challenging race since it was his weakest stroke, and anything can happen during a 100m race. But Phelps defeated Milorad Cavic by a hair. From the instant replay, it appeared Cavic got to his side faster, but Phelps emerged victorious. Many theorists proclaim that the higher-ups rigged Phelps’ platform to be extra sensitive, considering he was the media darling.

Robbery of the U.S. Men’s Basketball Team

Before the U.S. Olympic basketball team was crushing teams by double-digits in the Olympics, they had to fight and claw their way to reach the podium. During the 1972 Munich games, basketball may have been the furthest thing from people’s minds, so the swindling of the U.S. team is easily forgettable. 

The squad lost 51-50 to Russia after a controversial out-of-bounds decision not only gave the ball back to Russia but added additional time to the clock, allowing them to score the game-winning basket. The U.S appealed the results and lost when three of the five members, who had ties to the Communist Bloc, voted against them.

Riggs Takes It Easy in the “Battle of the Sexes” Match

The “Battle of the Sexes” showdown between Billie Jean King and Bobby Riggs was an exhibition to determine if the world’s best women’s tennis player could take it to an average male player. Riggs wasn’t a stranger to gambling debts and was the favorite to defeat King, but Billie Jean wiped the floor with him. 

Because of Riggs’ money troubles, it seemed apparent that Riggs lost the match on purpose. He did trounce the number one female player, Margaret Court, to prepare for his match against King beforehand, so it is suspicious. Regardless of if it was authentic or not, its cultural impact on athletics is what truly matters. 

Michael Jordan’s Flu Game 

Michael Jordan is no stranger to wild conspiracy theories directed at him, particularly involving his two-year sabbatical. But there’s no secret suspension talk involved his Jordan’s infamous “flu game.” Did MJ have the flu when he dropped 35 points on the Utah Jazz in Game 5 of the NBA Finals? And if it wasn’t the flu, what was it?

Jordan’s trainer blames the pizza they ordered the previous night, claiming that the Jazz faithful tampered with it. Food poisoning and the flu are virtually identical, so the official diagnosis doesn’t matter. 

Looking back at the sports conspiracy theories that could be trueis entertaining to ponder under the proper context. These may be fiction, but who doesn’t love some controversy?

/0 Comments/by
,

Here Are Five Physical Health Conditions Caused by Anxiety

While not the direct cause, anxiety can lead to quite a few physical health problems. Here’s a list of some of the ones you should be careful of.

It should come as no surprise that extreme stress levels are not healthy for a person’s mental well-being. However, one thing you might not know is that anxiety can also affect the body physically. While it doesn’t directly cause these issues, anxiety can trigger some physical health conditions. Knowing about them will make them easier to spot if you feel overwhelmed. We’ll go over some of these conditions below.

Heart Conditions

While occasional stress isn’t a bad thing, constant anxiety can lead to heart problems. This is because your body starts pumping blood through your veins faster when you’re stressed. If it continues to operate at an elevated level on a regular basis, your heart will eventually become overworked, making you more susceptible to a heart attack or stroke.

Asthma

Rapid breathing is a common response when experiencing an anxiety attack. Regular anxiety attacks can cause breathing problems down the line, including asthma. Even though asthma isn’t a common problem for adults to develop later in life, constant anxiety will increase the likelihood.

Digestion Problems

Stress and anxiety can affect your digestive system too. Nausea is one of the more common symptoms, but stomach pain and diarrhea can also occur. If these issues persist, you can develop irritable bowel syndrome or even stomach ulcers.

Incontinence

Another system that is affected by stress is your urinary tract. Incontinence occurs when you lose control of your bladder. Under extreme stress, some people experience incontinence. To make matters worse, the psychological impact of urinary incontinence can lead to even more stress, exacerbating the issue. Once this happens, it can be difficult to regain control.

Insomnia

The final notable physical health condition that can occur from anxiety is insomnia. This issue is a bit more well-known, but not everyone knows that extreme stress is one of the biggest triggers for sleeplessness. Chronic anxiety can lead to multiple sleepless nights, which can lower your immune system and cause other health conditions.

/0 Comments/by
,

Some Innovative Ways to Keep Pests Out of Your Home

Make your home a welcoming space for guests and family by making it an unwelcoming space for bugs, rodents, and other assorted pests! Here’s how.

If you’ve ever had a pest infestation in your home, you know what a headache it can be to chase them all out. Now it’s time to go on the offensive—prevent them from entering in the first place! Try these innovative methods for keeping pests out of your home, and enjoy a comfortable indoor space with no unexpected guests.

Dispose of Trash Securely

What sorts of trash bins do you have around the house? Bins and trash cans with lids keep food waste and other garbage secure from insect or animal interlopers. When it’s time to take the garbage out, tie off the bags with a double knot and take them out promptly. 

Keep Your Drains Clean

Few experiences are quite as unnerving as watching a centipede or a host of flies make their way in through your kitchen sink. Drains clogged with debris, especially food residue, are common breeding grounds for all kinds of creepy-crawlies. Use a mix of vinegar and baking soda to clean your drains at least once a month; the foaming action will break up stubborn clogs and clear away residue.

Seal Up Duct Leaks

If you see pests in your home but can’t figure out where they came from, enlist a professional to help you find their entrance and seal it off. Leaky or faulty air ducts are common points of entry for critters of various sizes. Have those air ducts tested for leakage, and if the technician finds any holes or gaps, ask them to seal up those gaps.

Replace Exterior Lightbulbs

Did you know the color of the lights outside your house affects insect activity as much as their location? If you have a problem with insects congregating around your front door, consider switching to warmer lights. Replace those mercury vapor bulbs with halogen bulbs in a pink or orange tint; they’re the least attractive to bugs. 

Pro-Tip 

While you’re at it, think about moving those exterior lights further away from your front door. That way, insects will be less likely to make their way indoors.

Screen All Entryways

One of the most surefire ways to keep pests out of your home is to keep your windows and doors closed at all times. However, many of us like a little fresh air once in a while! If you prefer to keep windows or doors cracked open for airflow, make sure you have durable, functional screens that keep bugs and larger pests out. Repair or replace those screens once you notice fraying, holes, or other damage.

To keep your home comfortable and inviting to human guests, utilize these innovative ways to keep pests out of your home for good. You’ll enjoy a cleaner house and avoid any unpleasant surprises from bugs, rodents, and other unwelcome visitors.

/0 Comments/by
, , ,

Camas Public Library is Turning 100 — With Many Events to Celebrate

Camas, WA — “A century in the books!” That’s the slogan that will help the Camas Library celebrate a momentous occasion – turning 100 years old. And, library administrators have organized multiple events to commemorate this milestone. 

The library’s official birthday will be celebrated April 4, 2023; however, the library has a full slate of activities throughout the entire year to mark this amazing feat. And it all starts with a special edition centennial library card, which is only available during 2023. For those that already have a library card, you may swap your current one out free of charge.

Upcoming Events

History Speaks (Speaker Series)

Six speaking engagements will take place throughout the year to inform citizens and to illuminate Camas’ illustrious past. The first in the series is the official kick-off for the centennial year.

Women Who Shaped Camas

Saturday, Jan. 21, 2 pm, Garver Theater

Barbara Baldus, a founder of the Library’s Second Story Gallery; Nan Henriksen, former mayor of Camas; local historian Virginia Warren, and Carrie Schulstad, executive director of the Downtown Camas Association,  will lead a panel discussion moderated by Bradley Richardson, executive director of the Clark County Historical Museum. 

Other Speaking Events (All at the library):

  • The Forgotten Front: Gender, Labor, and Politics in Camas, Washington, and the Northwest Paper Industry, 1913-1918 (April)
  • Will the 2020s Roar like the 1920s? (May)
  • A Promise Not Yet Fulfilled: The Chinook Struggle for Recognition (July)
  • Legendary Locals Author Event with Rene Carroll (September)
  • Whiskey and Wiretaps: The Northwest’s Rumrunning King (November)

The Library Turns 100

Tuesday, April 4, 10 am–8 pm

Stop by the Library anytime during open hours to celebrate the Library’s big day. There’ll be music, goodies and giveaways.

Second Story Gallery

Each of the Library’s six Second Story Gallery shows will have a connection to the centennial in 2023. Read below for the first two shows, covering January – April.

Read All About It (January & February)

This show will consist of reproduced cover pages from the local newspaper, which was originally called LaCamas Post and is now The Camas-Washougal Post-Record. The headlines will be drawn from the first 50 years of the paper’s life, 1908-1958. The reproduced cover pages will reveal to patrons a snapshot of what was happening in our community throughout these years, while also highlighting the local coverage of regional events and reporting on national headlines. The opening reception is Friday, Jan. 6, 5-8 pm.

A Century in the Books (March & April)

This exhibit will showcase a timeline of Library milestones over the past 100 years. From the initial conception for a public library space to the current building on 4th Ave., enjoy a walk-through time to see historical photos and learn interesting facts from the past century. The opening reception is Friday, March 3, 5-8 pm.

This just a sampling of the upcoming year, which will include programs for all ages, events around town, and historical documents you may explore online. Residents interested in taking part can also be on the lookout for upcoming library story and memory requests. 

More information at https://www.cityofcamas.us/library

/0 Comments/by
, ,

Camas Gallery Features New Works by Blue Bond in November Show 

Camas, WA — The public is invited to view recent works by local artist Blue Bond at Camas Gallery throughout the month of November. Camas Gallery, located at 408 NE Fourth Avenue in downtown Camas invites area residents to attend the First Friday Art Walk Reception to honor Bond and his work on Friday, November 4th from 5 pm to 8 pm. Refreshments will be served. 

“We are thrilled to feature Blue Bond this month,” said Marquita Call, co-owner of Camas Gallery. “Blue Bond is a Northwest artist who has over 40 years of experience in the art field, painting in oil and acrylic. His bold, colorful, realistic portrayal of people, animals, and vast panoramas are vivid; evoking emotion and depth.”

In 2005, Bond was honored by being commissioned to do an oil painting commemorating the 60th anniversary of the end of World War II. The event, “America Celebrates Freedom,” which took place in Vancouver, Washington, was the largest held in the United States, and sponsored by the United States Department of Defense. Bond’s painting appeared on memorabilia and the original is on display at the Vancouver National Historic Reserve Trust in Vancouver. 

Another great highlight was an invitation to paint a portrait of one of the “Beautiful Lives Lost,” commemorating those who died in the mass shooting in Las Vegas, Nevada in 2017. Blue chose to paint Rocio Guillen Rocha, a 41 year-old mother of four. Her youngest child was only six weeks old when she was killed. It is with great pride that the family has her painting as a gift, forever honoring her short life. Blue enjoys commissioned portraits, and strives to create the best possible picture of the subject. 

Camas Gallery has been open in Camas for more than a decade and is an award winning gallery owned by Marquita Call and her daughter Jennifer Senescu. The gallery is open Tuesday through Saturday from 11 am to 5 pm and represents about 16 artists including three new artists to the gallery: Suzanne Grover, Sandra Longmore and Virginia Bittler.

Bond

 

/0 Comments/by
, , ,

Downtown Camas November First Friday: ‘Thankful for Pie’ Theme

Downtown Camas will be celebrating gratitude for the season during the “Thankful for Pie!” themed First Friday on November 4. There will be pie raffles and tastings, gratitude activities, s’mores roasting, fall crafts, games, and the fan favorite Pie Walk Dance Party, with a selection of prize pies. This event also includes fall-inspired dining and cocktail specials, after hours shopping and art shows.

The Second Story Gallery, located upstairs at the Camas Library, will unveil the first exhibit from the newly formed Artisans’ Guild of Camas. The Guild strives to inspire enthusiasm for arts and crafts through education and exhibition opportunities, and they often participate in artful community engagement at Downtown Camas First Friday events. This exhibit, titled “The Gift of Art,” will feature 18 local artists in many different 2D and 3D mediums. Event goers can enjoy pie and an artist reception at the gallery from 5 pm-8 pm.

Additional activities include:

  • Pie Raffles in participating Downtown Camas businesses
  • Pie Tastings with the DCAat Fuel Medical building, 314 NE Birch
  • The Pie Walk Dance Party, sponsored by Carla Edwards, local Realtor, starting at 7pm with the Downtown Camas Association (DCA) in Journey Church, 304 NE 4th — win a delicious pie or other treat
  • S’mores Roasting (weather permitting) sponsored by IQ Credit Union
  • Fall Crafts for kids at LiveWell Camas, 417 NE Birch, and inside Journey Church  
  • Fill out the “Gratitude Passport” and be entered to win fall themed prizes from the downtown merchants
  • Art Shows & Receptions at Camas Gallery, 408 NE 4th and Attic Gallery, 421 NE Cedar, in addition to the Second Story Gallery reception listed above.

Pick up your First Friday passport and activity list for the evening at the DCA tables in Journey starting at 5pm.

“This First Friday is such an incredible celebration of both gratitude and pie, and who doesn’t love pie?” says Carrie Schulstad, Executive Director of the Downtown Camas Association. “This event has something for all ages and truly brings people together in a way that they can support local, have fun together, and have tasty treats. We are so appreciative for our community that shops local during the holidays, and this event is a great way to kick that off.”

First Fridays are Art, Activities, Dining, and After Hours Shopping themed family friendly events coordinated by the DCA each month of the year to support downtown and bring the community together. For all the information, visit https://downtowncamas.com/event/november-first-friday-thankful-for-pie  and www.facebook.com/camasfirstfriday

Background
/0 Comments/by
, ,

Tips: What You Should Look For in a Quality Belt Grinder

Purpose and Functionality

One of the first things you should consider before choosing a belt grinder is which kind of projects you’ll need it for. For example, some belt grinders can be used with attachments and accessories that give them a wider range of functions. Occasionally, manufacturers will even include bonus attachments with certain models.

Belt Size and Length

While more compact belt grinders are typically less expensive than other models, you may end up paying more for replacement belts. Longer belts are better able to handle the heat from grinding since the wear is dispersed over more material. 

You may also be tempted to get a belt grinder with a wide belt, but these are not ideal for all kinds of projects. Knife making, for example, requires a two-inch belt. Anything thinner or wider will make it harder to perform the right functions.

Speed Settings

Not every belt grinder comes with a variable speed belt, but getting one that does can be a huge help. Some projects require very high speeds, while others don’t. Having the ability to choose the speed you’re using increases the number of materials you can work with.

Belt

Motor Size

Another important thing to look for in a quality belt grinder is a reliable and high-power motor, especially if you’re looking at a model without variable speed. A grinder with a weak motor just won’t perform as well, even if the price is more affordable.

The Right Belt Grinder

Follow these tips to make sure you choose the belt grinder that’s right for your projects. Once you have the machine you want, you’ll need to properly maintain your belt grinder to ensure it lasts as long as possible. With the right care, a quality belt grinder should last you quite a while.

/1 Comment/by