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Events: Camas High School Graduation, Little League Fun Day

2017 Camas High School Graduation | June 16 @ 7 pm

The Class of 2017 will be honored at their graduation ceremony on Friday night, which begins at 7 pm at Doc Harris Stadium. Tickets are required for entry.

Friends of the Library Summer Book Sale | June 16 + 17 from 9 am-5 pm

Used book sale for Washougal Library
Hardcover $1.00 Softcover $0.50
Children’s Corner
$3.00 bag sale Saturday 4-5 pm
Help the Friends raise money for a larger library.

Events

 

Camas Little League Family Fun Day | June 17 @10 am

Sat, June 17, 10-2:30, Forest Home Park. Closing Ceremonies, Team Picnics, Equipment Exchange, Turn in uniforms, and a really fun carnival!

All-Stars

Aaron Geigenmiller, of the Camas Reds, competes with a Cascade Little League team.

Eco-Blitz at Steigerwald Lake NWR | June 17 All day

At the Eco-Blitz, scientists, families, and community members will work together to get an overall count of the plants, animals, fungi, and other organisms that live at Steigerwald Lake National Wildlife Refuge. The event is free and open to all ages. No experience is necessary! Volunteers will receive brief training on using the iNaturalist app and experts will be on hand to help identify species.

Registration is required. Snacks and beverages are provided!. You can sign up for one or more walks. Free water bottle for participants who register here: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/steigerwald-lake-nwr-eco-blitz-tickets-33912550351?aff=eac2

7:30am-9:30am Birding
7:30am-9:30am Tracking/Mammal
10:00am-12:00pm Insect
12pm-2:00pm Reptiles and Amphibians
12pm-2:00pm Plants
8:30pm-10:30pm Bat

Where: Steigerwald Lake National Wildlife Refuge
Washougal, Wa 98671
When: Saturday June 17th, 7:30am-10:30pm (time shifts of various species identification groups given at registration)
What to Bring:
• Water bottle
• Sunscreen, bug repellent and a hat
• Good walking shoes
• Dress for the weather
Event Hosted By: Columbia Gorge Refuge Stewards and the US Fish and Wildlife Service

Alpenrose Dairyville Returns | All Summer

Oregon’s oldest family-owned dairy is bringing back a time honored annual tradition celebrating summer and the community it has called home since 1916 with the opening of Dairyville on Sunday, June 4.

The annual celebration dating back to 1956 offers families a wholesome activity every Sunday of the summer until Aug. 27 with the opportunity to explore the Pioneer Exhibit, Dairyville School, post office, Great Western Bank, and model train display. Visitors can also take a peek into the confectionary and, of course, no visit would be complete without stopping by the Ice Cream Parlor for a delicious scoop of Alpenrose ice cream.Dairyville remains free for the public and opens every Sunday from 1 p.m. – 4 p.m. through Aug. 27.

Location: 6149 SW Shattuck Road, Portland, OR

To learn more visit www.alpenrose.com

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Free Garbage Disposal & Recycling Day Event

Camas, WA — The city of Camas is coordinating its annual Garbage Disposal and Recycling Day event this Saturday, April 16. It’s being held in conjunction with the annual Yard Debris Disposal Day. It’s a chance to get rid of that junk in your backyard, garage, shed, etc.

The flyers attached to this article provide a list of what is acceptable, and what isn’t at the disposal sites. A donation of two canned food items is requested when dropping off items for recycling.

Free Annual Household Garbage Disposal & Recycling Day Event

SATURDAY, APRIL 16, 2016, 9:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.
City of Camas Operations Center – 1620 SE 8th Avenue, Camas

 

Recycling

Yard debris can be dropped off at the site location this Saturday.

Free Annual Yard Debris Disposal Day

SATURDAY, APRIL 16, 2016, 9:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.
Triangle Resources – 612 SE Union Street, Camas
(coupon and proof of Camas residency required)

FREE disposal of items listed on the flyer below. Your donation of two canned food items is requested for local food banks.

To learn more, visit www.cityofcamas.us

Recycling

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Humane Society Pet of the Week: Amber

Each week, Lacamas Magazine will feature a Pet of the Week, from the Southwest Washington Humane Society.

Hi, I’m Amber! I’ve just arrived on a rescue transport. I’m a beautiful girl that has a sweet, friendly personality. I’m looking for a best friend that loves to pet and snuggle and play. I’m a very happy dog with beautiful brown eyes! I like short runs and long walks. If you want to meet me, let the front desk know and they’ll be happy to set it up. It’s always best for a new dog to meet the children and other pets they will share their future home with. Amber thanks you for considering adoption!

Amber

Amber is 6 years old.

Code Number: 83933
Date Available: Now
Type: Dog
Breed: Labrador Retriever
Sex: Female
Age: 6 years, 0 months
Weight: 80.4 lbs

The adoption fee for dogs in Angelica’s age range (6 months to 6 years) is $100-$200. The costs of adoptions vary, depending on the dog’s age, and other issues.

All adoptions include: Spay or neuter surgery, microchip ID and national registration, select vaccinations, free veterinary exam with a local participating veterinarian, animal training information, and 30 days of free pet insurance.

Denise Barr, the Director of Marketing at the Southwest Humane Society, says the Pacific Northwest is a good area for pet adoptions.

“We have a very high adoption rate here,” she said. “4,400 pets were adopted last year.”
To learn more, visit www.southwesthumane.org
Amber

Amber is available for adoption.

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Top 15 Signs You’ve Lived in Camas a Long Time

We compiled a fun list of things that show you have lived in Camas for a while. How long have you lived here?

  1. You bowled at Riverside Lanes before Big Al’s entered the scene.

    Bowling

    Riverside Lanes on Third Avenue.

  2. You associate Gyro’s with Friday night Camas Varsity football games at Doc Harris Stadium.
  3. You never speed by the Fire Station on Parker Street because there’s usually a police officer there. Speed trap. You know where all the speed traps are.
  4. You know who Joe Papermaker the Mean Machine is, and you defend him when people make fun of the name.
  5. You know Lacamas Lake is disgusting but swim in it anyway during the warm summer months. Plus, you know where the tree rope is.

    Lacamas Lake

    Lacamas Lake

  6. You know a small order of fries at Top Burger will feed you and three of your friends just fine, but you order a large anyway. You also know fries at Top Burger taste even better with their ice cream.
  7. You know movies are just better at Liberty Theater, even with the old building smell (you get used to it after a few minutes).
  8. You remember when band concerts and performances were held at Garfield.
  9. The odor from the paper mill doesn’t faze you anymore.
  10. Going to the “beach” during the hot summer months means going to Cottonwood, aka BA Beach.
  11. You remember when the Camas Hotel was gross. It’s not anymore.
  12. Summer isn’t summer without a blizzard at Dairy Queen in downtown Camas.
  13. You did all your shopping at Sprouse Reitz in downtown Camas.

    Camas

    Spouse Reitz was located where Lizzabeth A is today.

  14. You got your hair cut at Baldy’s (formerly next to Lily Atelier). Some refer to it also as Jack’s Barbershop.
  15. You know the original town’s name wasn’t “Camas.” Hint: Look at our magazine’s name.

We welcome you to add to this list. Just comment below.

To learn more about Camas, visit: http://www.cityofcamas.us

 

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Floods Video: Reader Shows Local Damage

Longtime Camas, Jeff Peebles, got a closer  look at the extensive damage the heavy rain and floods have inflicted on Forest Home Road, in the heart of Camas. He captures the erosion to the foundation of part of the road, and why the road is closed indefinitely. Thanks, Mr. Peebles, for your intriguing video report.
He said the heavy pounding of rain has eroded a sub-set of the road, deeming it unsafe for car traffic.
“I can’t believe what’s happened because of all the rain we’ve been having,” said Peebles. “It was cool to capture what’s going on.”

Historical Rainfall and Floods

The area has been walloped for weeks with very heavy rain. In December, the area broke all records for most inches of rainfall, topping the 7-inch mark that was set in 1996, when the Columbia River overflowed, causing extensive damage to homes and structures along its shores.
There was also severe damage to other roads that are closer to Lacamas Lake, which crested to near flood stage during the torrential rain fall.
Local government agencies created flood zone alerts so citizens could know what areas to avoid.
“The goal is to save lives and keep people out of harm’s way,” said Washington State Representative, Liz Pike.
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Landslides: WA Natural Resources Issues Warning

OLYMPIA, WA — State Representative Liz Pike, of Legislative District 18, said, according to the Washington Department of Natural Resources (DNR), the state is facing an extreme risk for landslides.
In particular, said Pike, quoting the DNR, Lewis and Thurston Counties are currently facing extreme risk for landslides, which are expected to be “frequent and widespread.”
The most recent forecasts, updated a few hours ago, show all Western Washington and some Eastern Washington counties facing extreme landslide risk.
The DNR warns that sudden changes in creek levels, cracking wood of moving rocks are strong indications of a pending landslide, and they recommend staying away from hiking trails until the ground starts to settle.
If you see a landslide or indications of one, the DNR instructs you to get into contact with your local Emergency Management Division. The direct number is 800-562-6108 or 253-512-7000.
Stay safe out there!
Go to www.DNR.wa.gov for more details and updates on current conditions.
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Heavy Rains Swell Lacamas Lake Boat Ramp

This week’s heavy rain has, of course, had an effect on local roads and bridges, but it has also caused Lacamas Lake to swell and crest the boat ramp (near the Lacamas Lake Lodge). Here is a video. Photos to come in another post. ‪#‎lacamaslake‬ ‪#‎lacamasmagazine‬

 

 

 

 

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Vanderwood Sworn in as Superior Court Judge

VANCOUVER — Camas resident Derek Vanderwood was sworn in as Clark County’s newest Superior Court judge Friday at an investiture ceremony that was attended by approximately 130 people.

Vanderwood, who has practiced law in Vancouver since 1996, was sworn in by Judge Barbara D. Johnson, as family, friends and peers looked on during the sunny afternoon on the sixth floor of the Clark County Public Service Center.

Derek Vanderwood is sworn in as Superior Court judge by
Judge Barbara D. Johnson

The simple, yet elegant ceremony included remarks by Johnson, Casey Marshall (Vanderwood’s former law practice partner), and Judge Daniel L. Stahnke, who all spoke highly of Clark County’s newest judge.

Marshall introduced Vanderwood and spoke highly of their professional relationship while sharing some lighthearted moments. He said he at first doubted that Vanderwood would be appointed to the bench, but never doubted he’d make a good judge.

“And here we are now, ” Marshall said. “Derek will do an excellent job. He’s very meticulous and has a great love of community.”

Vanderwood was appointed to the bench by Governor Jay Inslee after a vacancy become available through the retirement of Judge Nichols. Vanderwood will have to run for election in November to complete the remaining two years of this judicial term.

“We welcome Derek into his new role,” said Judge Stahnke. “He’s been doing orientation for the past week … and know this can be overwhelming.”

After taking the oath of office from Judge Johnson, Vanderwood received his robe, which was placed by his wife, Allison, a longtime Clark County resident.

“It’s been a great opportunity to serve so many clients over these many years,” said Vanderwood. “And my partners have been a great help. I’m looking to create new relationships and this is an opportunity to help others … and I want you to know that I’m committed to respecting all those who enter the courtroom.

“This has given me a chance to reflect on accomplishments, and it’s a wonderful chance to serve,” he added. “And I ask you all to look how you can serve our community.”

In her closing remarks, Judge Johnson said: “Judge Vanderwood fits in and truly seems to have a calling to be a judge. It’s very meaningful to have him here.”

In attendance was Vanderwood’s immediate family, including his wife, Allison, and three of his four children: Alina, Andrew and Tyler. His oldest two sons, Devin and Grant, are currently serving missions for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Peru and Dallas, Texas, respectively. The new judge also serves as a local LDS Bishop in Camas.

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Derek Vanderwood, his wife Allison, and three of their five children.

Much of his extended family, including his mother, Joan, and siblings, were in attendance, as well.

Following the investiture ceremony, the guests attended an elegant reception at Vancouver Hilton.

“It’s a great experience for our family,” said Andrew. “It’s a good change. I thought he would get it. He’s a great public speaker and it was just right.”

His mother, Joan Vanderwood, referred to the ceremony as a parent pay day.

“Of course, I’m impressed with Derek and his abilities,” said Joan. “He’s very fair and has many good qualities. I’ve always felt he had the potential to be amazing and live up to his potential.”

Judge Vanderwood has served actively in the community for years in his ecclesiastical capacity, as well as serving Little League and the Boy Scouts of America, among other organizations.

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Judge Vanderwood takes his seat among other judges.

“It’s been a fantastic day,” said Allison. “It’s really an honor to be part of this event, and I’m just so  proud of him. This entire experience teaches our kids the importance of community. When he was appointed by Governor Inslee, were were shocked, but very happy with the announcement. It was a surprise and surely a great honor. Derek will serve people well.”

Judge Vanderwood will continue his orientation these coming weeks, and will then be given a load of cases to oversee.

 

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Vanderwood Appointed to Superior Court

VANCOUVER – Washington State Governor Jay Inslee’s office announced Friday the appointment of civil lawyer Derek Vanderwood, a long-time Camas resident, to be Clark County’s newest Superior Court judge.
Vanderwood, a partner at the firm English, Lane, Marshall & Vanderwood, succeeds Judge John Nichols, who retired this month after serving 18 years on the bench.
“Derek has a long-standing reputation in Clark County for being a smart and committed lawyer,” Inslee said in a prepared statement. “I know he’s ready to take on this role and serve the people in a new capacity.”
Derek Vanderwood, of Camas.
Friday’s announcement was the culmination of a months-long process, which began last summer when Judge Nichols announced his retirement. At that time, Gov. Inslee posted a notification for application with a mid-September deadline.
Vanderwood was one of three applicants, which included Clark County Chief Deputy Prosecutor John Fairgrieve and criminal defense attorney Christopher Ramsay. Each applicant had the opportunity to present their case to the Clark County Bar Association, as well as conduct interviews with Gov. Inslee and the General Counsel.
“I look forward to this wonderful opportunity to serve,” said Vanderwood. “I’ll be wrapping up matters at my practice, which will take some time. I’ll likely start serving in this new position in late February.”
Vanderwood has been practicing law in Washington state since 1994, and has lived in Clark County since 1996. At his Vancouver firm, he focuses on injury claims, civil litigation, wrongful death, medical malpractice, and consumer safety cases.
One of his highest profile cases involved a suit against Hyundai for defective seats in which the jury awarded the plaintiff, Jesse Magna, $8 million. Vanderwood and firm partner, Dennis Lane, represented Magna, who was ejected from the vehicle during a late 90s automobile accident. The award was appealed to the state’s highest court, and was ultimately upheld.
Vanderwood, who is originally from Grand Junction, Colo., is married to Allison Teuscher Vanderwood, who grew up in Clark County. They have five children – four sons and one daughter – who have all attended Camas public schools.
Service to community is part of Vanderwood’s life, as he has been serving as a Bishop (an ecclesiastical leader) for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Camas since 2012. The voluntary, non-paid position requires many hours each week dedicated to serving church members and local residents. He also volunteers his time serving the community at large in other capacities, such as being a parent volunteer at Camas Little League, among other organizations.
Vanderwood’s supporters say, “He follows the letter of the law, and is very much into respecting individual privacy rights.”
“In the Washington judicial system there are two trial courts: District and Superior,” said Vanderwood. “Superior is the higher court and the distinction is in size and ramification. The Superior Court works with more serious criminal cases, as well as large financial claims. Over time I will be working on a mix of family, criminal, civil, and juvenile cases, and that can change with rotations.”
While Vanderwood has primarily focused on his law practice, he said he’s been drawn to serving on the bench in recent years, and looks forward to the opportunity.
He will need to run for election in November 2015. Each Superior Court judicial term is four years.
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Pike Appointed to House Local Government Committee

OLYMPIA, WA — Eighteenth District Representative Liz Pike has been appointed to serve on the House Local Government Committee.  The committee considers issues relating to the operations and financing of counties, cities, and some special districts. It also considers issues relating to the Growth Management Act and land use issues such as local permitting and the subdivision of property.

Pike, who served on the Camas City Council from 2003 to 2007, says the new committee assignment is a good fit that will allow her to utilize her past experience in city government.

Liz Pike
Lacamas Magazine Archived Photo: Rep. Liz Pike at the 2012 Clark County
GOP Convention at the Hilton in downtown Vancouver.

“During my time on the city council, I learned about municipal budgeting, ordinances, land-use policies and the Growth Management Act, as well as many other issues involving local government. I’ve walked in the shoes of the local elected officials and I know the challenges they face and the services expected from local government by the public,” said Pike, R-Camas. “I have six small cities just within my legislative district, so I’m looking forward to helping them, their constituents, and other local governments across the state.”

Pike said one of her priorities will be restoration of the Public Works Assistance Account, which makes low- and no-interest loans to cities and utilities to finance water, sewer and street projects. Last year, the Legislature used the money, $354 million, to help balance the state operating budget. As a result, no loans were issued. Pike said those monies are vital to local governments to provide funding for needed infrastructure. The sweeping of those funds was one of the reasons Pike voted last year against the operating budget proposal.

“I’ll also be working to limit unfunded mandates to our cities and counties that are working with limited budget authority. If we could reduce some of the financial burdens on our local governments, it would increase delivery of services to those communities and help our citizens immensely,” she added. “That’s the direction of change I hope to make with this new committee assignment.”

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