Following the air quality concerns raised by faculty and students at Camas High School and Liberty Middle School Tuesday, as well as others, Camas School District (CSD) Superintendent, Dr. John Anzalone, along with facilities staff, inspected multiple buildings Wednesday morning.
CSD issued this statement Wednesday morning:
“Early this morning, Dr. Anzalone and facilities staff members visited multiple buildings to assets today’s status. It was determined that schools would remain open because indoor air quality had improved compared to yesterday afternoon. Since outdoor air quality continues to be poor, recess, P.E., and athletics will remain indoors today. Today is a planned early release day; however, all professional development will be postponed so staff members may go home after students are released.
“Again, parents are always encouraged to consider the conditions of their neighborhood school and any particular circumstances or needs of their students to determine whether to keep their children home from school during adverse conditions. Students are excused from school when they have the parent or guardian’s permission.
“We will continue to monitor the situation and keep you informed of any changes. Thank you for your support as we navigate the impacts of the Nakia Creek fire.”
Fern Prairie, WA — At a Tuesday press briefing local and regional authorities said 140 new firefighters are en route to help extinguish the Nakia Creek Fire, which has been burning since October 9. Officials also provided an update on the evacuation zone, the person of interest investigation, acreage burned, and weather conditions, among other news.
Natalie Weber, Public Information Officer for the Oregon Department of Forestry (ODF), Sgt. Chris Skidmore, of the Clark County Sheriff’s Office, and Matt Howard, Incident Commander, briefed the media.
Weber said 600 homes in the evacuation zone had direct contact with Clark County Sheriff’s deputies informing them of the need to evacuate, and said 140 firefighters from the region are en route to assist with the blaze, which has consumed about 1,800 acres.
“There has been slight acreage growth on the Nakia Creek Fire,” said Weber. “This is natural growth that is expected. New aircraft and equipment is coming today. Weather conditions are foggy in the morning, with higher humidity, which helps. The fog limits visibility and creates challenges. The area has steep ridges that hinder access.”
Key takeaways:
The weather outlook is mostly favorable, with some winds forecast.
Evacuation zones are unchanged from Monday.
222 homes are still in the evacuation zone, affecting 2,500 people.
Containment is 5 percent.
Oregon firefighter crews will remain through the weekend.
Crew moral is high.
It took time to get enough firefighters to battle this fire.
No structure has been lost.
A new camp in Fern Prairie has been set up to house all the firefighters. It has tents, showers and a kitchen to help them function.
Firefighters have all they need for supplies.
Skidmore said the Sheriff’s Office determines the evacuation zones, based on intelligence from Department of Natural Resources (DNR) and ODF. He also addressed the fire investigation, which is focusing on four persons of interest who were recorded at the scene when the fire first erupted.
“The persons of interest include four adults, two females and two males,” said Skidmore. “It also includes a white Subaru Forrester. They were encountered by two people down the trail who provided more descriptions about the number of people. Many people have called in.”
Skidmore said deputies are patrolling the area to protect people’s property, and he urged people to steer clear of the area for recreation purposes.
Howard said it’s been 20 years since Oregon firefighters have worked on the ground in Washington.
“Morale with the crew is high,” Skidmore said. “They recognize the need for them to be here. Crews are are and well trained.”
https://cdn.lacamasmagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/18153816/IMG_9132-scaled.jpeg13922560Ernest Geigenmillerhttps://cdn.lacamasmagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/07074147/lacamas_white_2-300x300.pngErnest Geigenmiller2022-10-18 15:44:292022-10-18 15:44:36Nakia Creek Fire: 140 New Firefighters En Route, Evacuation Zones Unchanged
The Clark County Fire Marshal’s Office is asking for the public’s help in identifying persons and a vehicle of interest in an ongoing Nakia Creek fire investigation.
The Fire Marshal’s office is asking the public to review the video and photo below to see if they recognize the people or vehicle. The video was taken Sunday, Oct. 9 at approximately 3:30 pm on a ridge near where the Nakia Creek fire is burning on Larch Mountain. The fire was first reported to CRESA about an hour later.
“We are looking for what we believe is a white or light-colored Subaru vehicle,” said Assistant Fire Marshal Curtis Eavenson. “Based on witness statements, we also believe there were two men and two women connected with this vehicle.”
If anyone recognizes the vehicle or people depicted in the video or has any information regarding the ongoing wildfire investigation, they are urged to contact the county’s Fire Marshal Office at (564) 397-3320.
The Nakia Creek fire is located nine miles northeast of Camas in the Yacolt Burn State Forest.
https://cdn.lacamasmagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/17173507/IMG_9096-scaled-e1666053369439.jpg15292406Ernest Geigenmillerhttps://cdn.lacamasmagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/07074147/lacamas_white_2-300x300.pngErnest Geigenmiller2022-10-17 17:42:282022-10-17 17:58:45Fire Marshal Seeks Persons, Vehicle of Interest in Nakia Creek Fire Investigation
From CRESA: Officials estimate the Nakia Creek Fire today grew from 156 acres to about 2000 acres. The easterly winds were so strong today that air assets were grounded at times for safety. New containment is listed at 5 percent.
Please note this is a very rough estimate as there is so much smoke in the air, it is difficult to get a good visual on the fire. CRESA believes we will have better numbers by morning.
CRESA sent out multiple notification alerts today including a Wireless Emergency Alert. Please be sure you are looking at the most current map and updates for the most accurate notification areas. The most current information can be found at: http://cresa911.org/2022/10/11/nakia-creek-fire-updates/.
At this time we have:
• 28,765 homes under “Level 1 Be Ready” Notice (Nakia Creek Fire)
• 5017 homes under “Level 2 Be Set” Notice
• 2903 homes under “Level 3 Go Now” Notice
Grove Field is a gathering location for Livingston Mountain evacuees who have been meeting with each other and first responders.
At this time Clark County has also signed an Emergency Declaration due to the fires.
Additionally American Red Cross has opened a shelter in Camas at:
Camas Church of Nazarene
2204 NE Birch St,
Camas, WA 98607
The Cowlitz Tribe and Ilani has also made parking lots available for vehicles as well:
Parking Lots 10 and 11
Please put a sign in window “Fire Evacuee”
Parking Only, Gray water will need to be dumped at Gee Creek Rest Area
CRESA EOC Volunteers have also staffed a call center to assist anyone seeking assistance. The number is staffed 7 am to 10 pm. Please call 360-992-9229.
https://cdn.lacamasmagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/16231302/DDD0D095-3D24-4E96-8373-63F66059DDE5.jpg10821440Ernest Geigenmillerhttps://cdn.lacamasmagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/07074147/lacamas_white_2-300x300.pngErnest Geigenmiller2022-10-16 23:18:142022-10-16 23:18:20Nakia Creek Fire Update: Fire Grows From 156 Acres to 2,000 Acres Sunday
Aerial surveys show the Nakia Creek Fire near Larch Mountain, which started Sunday afternoon, is burning approximately 156 acres, and is smaller than fire fighters previously thought, according to Clark Regional Emergency Services Agency (CRESA). Officials also confirmed the fire was human caused, and the investigation continues.
CRESA said firefighter teams are making good progress on control lines around the fire. Firefighters strengthened control lines south of the fire, which CRESA spokesman Eric Frank said is good news for people in evacuation zones.
Approximately 220 homes in the area (near the Skamania County line) were issued evacuation notices Tuesday. Most notices were Level 1 — Be Ready. About 14 addresses fell under a Level 2 notice — Be Set. No residents were under a Level 3 notice — Go Now, according to Frank. CRESA said evacuation notices didn’t change Wednesday.
As of today, the fire was 10 percent contained. Anyone with information about the cause should contact the Clark County Fire Marshal’s Office at 564-397-3320.
https://cdn.lacamasmagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/12153146/IMG_8652-e1665614663222.jpg13632521Ernest Geigenmillerhttps://cdn.lacamasmagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/07074147/lacamas_white_2-300x300.pngErnest Geigenmiller2022-10-12 15:45:162022-10-12 15:50:37CRESA Says Nakia Creek Fire Human Caused, Burning 156 Acres
Camas, WA — The Washington Department of Natural Resources (DNR) reported this morning that the Nakia Creek fire on Larch Mountain, which was first reported to CRESA at 4:30 pm Sunday, has grown to 150 acres.
The DNR said that crews will continue to engage the fire throughout the day utilizing both ground and air resources. An acreage update will be provided after aerial survey.
No evacuation orders are in place at this time. The public is asked to remain clear of the area.
One of these images shows satellite hot spots this morning from NOAA’s smoke map for the #NakiaCreekFire on Larch Mountain area of Clark County, WA. 8 am, Oct 10, 2022.
https://cdn.lacamasmagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/10120835/IMG_6851-scaled-e1665429076595.jpeg13561920Ernest Geigenmillerhttps://cdn.lacamasmagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/07074147/lacamas_white_2-300x300.pngErnest Geigenmiller2022-10-10 12:28:432022-10-10 12:28:51Nakia Creek Fire on Larch Mountain Grows to 150 Acres
David Stuebe was sworn in as Mayor of Washougal Monday, September 26, 2022, after a unanimous vote by Washougal City Council. He will serve in Council Position #1 until late November 2023. Rochelle Ramos stepped down from the role on September 17 to pursue a career growth opportunity in Utah.
“I’m honored and humbled to accept the Council’s vote of confidence to fill the role of mayor,” commented Stuebe. “I’ll continue providing leadership and sound judgement as we help grow and serve our community.”
As a resident of Washougal since 2007, he was appointed to the City Council March 29, 2021. Stuebe is committed to helping Washougal provide intelligent and responsible growth, resident safety and youth/adult resources and activities. He serves on many city and county boards and commissions and is also a VFW (Veterans of Foreign Wars) lifetime member, Back a Hero committee member and sits on the All-Service Academy Interview Committee for Congressional Appointments.
“I think this decision makes sense,” said Councilmember Molly Coston. “As Mayor Pro Tem, Councilmember Stuebe has become very adept at understanding the role as extending beyond the chair of the council. He is very engaged in almost all of our activities.”
Stuebe served over 30 years in the United States Marine Corps (active duty and reserves), retiring as a Colonel in 2016. As a Marine, he managed multiple humanitarian projects, coalition trainings and combat operations around the world, in addition to leading several large commands. Stuebe has also held senior management positions in the pharmaceutical and healthcare industries for over 20 years. Stuebe is a graduate of the University of Redlands with a degree in Political Science.
“I have served around the world in many different roles and have made Washougal my home,” remarked Stuebe. “I’m committed to making this a great place for all.”
Council Position #1 will be on the ballot in November 2023, with the elected individual serving the remainder of the four-year term through the end of 2025.
https://cdn.lacamasmagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/09/28121331/Stuebe-Headshot-e1664392493852.jpg345480Ernest Geigenmillerhttps://cdn.lacamasmagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/07074147/lacamas_white_2-300x300.pngErnest Geigenmiller2022-09-28 12:21:242022-09-28 12:21:32City of Washougal Appoints New Mayor, David Stuebe
Washougal, WA — Rochelle Ramos is resigning as Washougal Mayor (City Council Position #1) effective at midnight on September 17. She is pursuing a career growth opportunity in another state. Mayor Pro Tem David Stuebe will fulfill the Mayoral function until the Council appoints someone to fill the vacant Council Position #1 seat.
“It has been an honor to serve as Mayor. It was not my plan when I ran for office to only serve 10 months. I was also not actively seeking a new position. I was approached with an opportunity that is very positive for my family, and although it was a very difficult decision, I just couldn’t turn it down,” said Mayor Ramos.
In November of 2021 Mayor Ramos was elected to a four-year term to Council Position #1, which is designated as Mayor, taking office on November 23 of that year. Her election as Mayor was the culmination of years of volunteerism, service and support in the Washougal community.
“We are grateful for Rochelle’s long history of service in our community. We as a City have been very fortunate to have had such a passionate and engaged community member who has done an outstanding job in all her roles, including her current position as Mayor. She will be greatly missed,” said Mayor Pro Tem Stuebe.
The Council will be discussing the vacancy and appointment process during its September 12, 2022 worksession. The appointed individual will serve as Mayor until late November 2023. Council Position #1 will then be on the ballot in November 2023, with the elected individual serving the remainder of the four-year term through the end of 2025.
“I am excited for Washougal’s future. We are in the middle of updating our Strategic Plan, which will guide the community into the future, and there are several exciting projects in the works. I encourage Washougal citizens to get involved by volunteering to serve the community through the many opportunities available,” said Ramos. “It is with mixed emotions that I move into this next phase in life and I will miss Washougal.”
https://cdn.lacamasmagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/29180914/IMG_5560.jpeg343514Ernest Geigenmillerhttps://cdn.lacamasmagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/07074147/lacamas_white_2-300x300.pngErnest Geigenmiller2022-08-29 18:11:242022-08-29 18:11:30Washougal Mayor Resigns, Will Relocate For New Career Opportunity
Tucked away from the road and away from congestion but close to all amenities is this stunning 5-acre property with expansive lawns and old growth fir, oak and maple trees. It’s located in the top-rated Camas School District, and is offered by John Fitzgerald, of Sotheby’s.
Key Features:
5 bedrooms, 4 baths
4,200 square feet
Airport only 20 minutes away
Close to downtown Camas charm for shopping and dining
Kitchen: Fully remodeled open kitchen and living room area. Brazilian mahogany drawers and cabinets, huge granite island with sink, professional grade DCS double oven and five burner stove and flat grill. Built in refrigerator/freezer and separate wine cooler. Private kitchen nook lined with huge windows overlooking the expansive yard.
Master: Vaulted ceilings and spacious living space. Large master bath includes walk-in closet, jetted sauna tub, radiant heated tile floor and spacious glass and tile shower. Brazilian mahogany cabinetry with double sink and mirrors. Large windows provide the area in natural light.
In-laws suite: Generous sized room has a small full bathroom with shower, enclosed closet and storage space. Beautiful view of front yard and circle drive.
Library and downstairs office: Just off the main entry is a large space perfect for a library, office and game room. French doors open to enough space for a group to congregate and close to the kitchen and other living areas on the main floor.
Office: Well equipped office space with large half round fan window to view the evening sun. Large enough space for large desk, computers, peripherals and filing drawers. Plenty of enclosed closet space for storage and supplies.
A gorgeous kitchen!
Kids Bedrooms: Two similar sized rooms with built-in desks and lights. Generous enclosed closets and large windows with views of the property.
Garage: Three car garage with full bathroom and overhead storage selves. The single bay is very deep and allows for a nice space for a work bench and tools. Plenty of room to store all the toys and equipment required for a property this size.
Landscape: Private paved road leads to house with elegant circle drive for easy entrance and exit. Fully landscaped yard including manicured lawn, hedges, maple and birch trees, seasonal bulbs and rysomes. Computerized irrigation system.
Backyard: Large wrap around decking with separate outdoor spaces for dinning, gather around fire pit, sun bathing & lounging, hot tub and bbqing. Opens up to beautiful large lawn area with oak trees, purple tulip magnolia tree, lilac and garden beds loaded with shrubs and bulbs for color throughout all seasons. Complete with kids play structure.
Food garden: Enclosed 2,500 square feet raised bed garden. Designed with four zoned computerized watering system. Pea gravel paths make a perfect environment to spend an evening nurturing plants and flowers that will fulfill your family.
Orchard and berry crops: Orchard trees include: red apple, yellow apple, 2 Asian pear, Bartlet pear and two varieties of plums. Berries include: two large blue berries, full stand of thornless marrian berries, raspberries and goose berries. Mature grapes include seedless Champaign and Concord grapes.
A mini-farm: This property has the infrastructure to run your own farm: barn, chicken coop, pig pen, pasture, and three acres of native land.
https://cdn.lacamasmagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/25152641/image0-scaled.jpeg16062560Ernest Geigenmillerhttps://cdn.lacamasmagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/07074147/lacamas_white_2-300x300.pngErnest Geigenmiller2022-08-25 15:43:542022-08-25 15:44:03Five Acre Property in Camas School District Offers Tranquility, Beauty
Camas, WA —In response to the July 26 resignation of Camas City Council Member Shannon Roberts, the City of Camas will begin accepting applications to fill the vacant Ward 1 seat.
Interested applicants can apply for the remainder of Roberts’ term beginning upon swearing in and ending Nov. 28, 2023. Applicants must be a resident of the City of Camas, Ward I, and must be a registered voter. The deadline to apply is Friday, Sept. 2, 2022.
At the Aug. 15, 2022, Camas City Council meeting, Mayor Steve Hogan will appoint Council Members to work with the City Administrator as the ad-hoc committee to oversee the appointment process, with the goal of having the position filled by the Oct. 3, Council meeting, well in advance of the Oct. 24, 2022, deadline, which per statute would require the appointment to be then made by the Clark County Council.
https://cdn.lacamasmagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/11154636/IMG_4622.jpg9341284Ernest Geigenmillerhttps://cdn.lacamasmagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/07074147/lacamas_white_2-300x300.pngErnest Geigenmiller2022-08-11 15:55:552022-08-11 15:56:02City of Camas to Begin Application Process to Fill Vacant Council Seat
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