Washougal, WA — ‘Tis the season for giving and this year that giving extended to two Washougal community partners. The Camas-Washougal Historical Society recently bestowed a vintage sleigh to City of Washougal to add to its annual holiday celebration.
“We were excited to accept the gift of this beautiful sleigh,” said Molly Coston, Washougal Mayor. “It makes the perfect ride for Santa and Mrs. Claus on their yearly appearance at our Lighted Christmas Parade! It is so quaint and nostalgic and in great condition.”
“When our museum Display Committee reviewed the Carriage House for winter maintenance and updates, it was decided that the sleigh took up a lot of space and there was no real local story attached to it,” said Karen Johnson, CWHS display committee volunteer “It really did not get much attention where it sat up in the rafters.”
The antique wooden sleigh is a beautiful forest green with silver decorations and plush red horsehair padded seats. It was originally donated to the CWHS by the estate of Emory Donald Heberling in 2007. The gift also included a black doctor’s buggy and a small covered wagon which remain on display at the museum’s Carriage House facility.
“We are pleased that this beautiful piece is going to a home that can share it with the community during the holidays,” said Johnson.
https://cdn.lacamasmagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/12/07074205/753E3DEF-5081-4658-9A66-76B2CA0C8B28.jpeg7091280Ernest Geigenmillerhttps://cdn.lacamasmagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/07074147/lacamas_white_2-300x300.pngErnest Geigenmiller2019-12-26 17:36:282019-12-26 17:36:34Vintage Sleigh Gifted to City of Washougal — Part of Annual Holiday Celebration
Parenting during the holidays can be tough no matter the situation. From planning dinner to arranging the perfect family picture, meeting your obligations may require a little help. The holidays are also uniquely difficult for families going through divorce, undertaking new child custody matters, and those struggling with past or ongoing domestic violence.
The first step in providing a healthy home for your child is to relieve your own stress. If you are going through a divorce or simply unhappy with your current shared parenting time, speaking with an attorney experienced in managing these types of issues will provide a calm to the holidays when you need it most.
Second, planning ahead will reduce issues that can arise this year and the next. What happens if your tradition is to celebrate the holidays in Miami, but the child’s other parent wants to travel to Boston for New Years? We have helped countless clients determine the solution best suited to meet their family’s needs and the children’s school schedules.
Attorney Rick Francisco
Finally, holiday events can bring people together for better and for worse. If you believe an individual intends to harm you or your child, there are steps we can take to help you avoid situations which may be dangerous. When you feel secure in your home, you can truly enjoy the company of your loved ones.
Instead of worrying about meeting deadlines and filing paperwork, we want to get you back to the best parts of the holidays. Minus the fruitcake.
Contact the law firm of McKean Smith today for a consultation. Visit www.McKeanSmithLaw.com
https://cdn.lacamasmagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/12/07074210/ABA52B52-8B44-4A97-A994-88316CFE2365.jpeg10372124Ernest Geigenmillerhttps://cdn.lacamasmagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/07074147/lacamas_white_2-300x300.pngErnest Geigenmiller2019-12-26 14:11:572019-12-26 14:16:36Rick Francisco: Provides Steps to Healthy Co-Parenting During Holiday Season
Washougal, WA — First grade students at Cape Horn-Skye Elementary learned the joy of giving by creating toys and blankets for dogs and cats residing at the West Columbia Gorge Humane Society (WCGHS).
“This experience was about empathy, caring for those less fortunate, in this case, animals,” said CH-S first grade teacher Darcy Hickey. “The students have been so excited for this project. It has become a first-grade tradition at CH-S.”
Students in Taryn Tedford’s and Nichol Yung’s first grade classes also participated.
Cathi Parent, Community Engagement Manager with WCGHS, came to CH-S to collect the gifts and talk with students about the shelter and their animals. She discussed ways that cats and dogs end up there, the foster program, success stories for animals, and volunteer activities. She also brought Purrgie the cat, a three-year-old tabby, who was a big hit with students.
“We love seeing children and youth of any age wanting to get involved in helping their local community and give back,” said Parent. “Their interest in helping animals is very heart warming. Many of these pets may have come from unwanted homes or were strays and never knew real love before. Living in a shelter situation, even though they are being taken very good care of and loved on by volunteers, can still be stressful. Having items like the blankets and toys that were made by the students, can help make their time at the shelter that much better.”
Students also learned about the importance of microchipping pets in case they get lost, spaying and neutering to control the pet population, and the process they go through to help pets get adopted. Parent made sure students were calm, quiet, and moved slowly as they approached Purrgie, who let anyone who wanted to meet her provide ear rubs, back scratches, and pets.
“The project also helps to meet a Washington State standard in Social and Emotional Learning (SEL),” Hickey explained. “This work provides an opportunity for students to consider others and show a desire to contribute to the well-being of our community”
Social and Emotional Learning (SEL) is broadly understood as a process through which individuals build awareness and skills in managing emotions, setting goals, establishing relationships, and making responsible decisions that support success in school and in life.
First grader Jojo Stevenson thought it was fun to make blankets and toys for these animals. “I hope these gifts make them happy,” she said. “I want them to stay warm and stay alive.”
The timing of this challenge was not a coincidence. “We wanted to send kids off on their two-week break thinking about the joy of giving and that giving of yourself can bring as much joy and excitement as receiving,” Hickey explained. “We are so proud of these students.”
https://cdn.lacamasmagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/12/07074217/213B0571-6E8E-4545-8437-9251D0F02306.jpeg7821280Ernest Geigenmillerhttps://cdn.lacamasmagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/07074147/lacamas_white_2-300x300.pngErnest Geigenmiller2019-12-26 13:05:572019-12-30 23:20:55Cape Horn-Skye Students Create Toys, Blankets for Local Humane Society
Each year, many Washougal School District high school and middle school band students apply to be a part of regional and state honor bands. These bands select the top musicians from the region or state, and students spend several days together rehearsing and performing under the baton of conductors from major universities and professional ensembles. Congratulations to these Washougal schools students that have been selected to be a part of these ensembles.
Washington Music Educators Association All-State Honor Groups:
– Amara Farah, clarinet (Chamber Orchestra)
– Barret Hemminger, trumpet (Wind Symphony)
Pacific Lutheran University Northwest High School Honor Band:
https://cdn.lacamasmagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/12/07074222/0B0E1EFF-8C5D-473C-BA8F-C7BF53F026D3.jpeg5751280Ernest Geigenmillerhttps://cdn.lacamasmagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/07074147/lacamas_white_2-300x300.pngErnest Geigenmiller2019-12-26 12:09:292019-12-26 12:18:36Washougal Band Students Join Regional, State Honor Bands
What started in 2000 as a small construction company called Victor and Sons has grown into Vixon Cabinets, one of Southwest Washington’s largest and premiere cabinet makers.
Know for high quality cabinets and unique designs in some of the area’s best homes, Vixon continues to make strides in innovation and service.
Family patriarch, Victor Chernichenko, an inventor who is very hands on, organized the company with sons Roman, Alex, and Eugene, and over time they’ve found their unique places in the family business that now oversees 250 installations a year.
Victor runs the shop. He also enjoys gardening.
Roman heads design and engineering. He also makes great wine.
Alex runs quality assurance. He also loves to spend time outdoors in the great Pacific Northwest.
And, Eugene, who is also a bread maker by night, is the General Manager. He’s become the voice of Vixon, but the roles weren’t always so clear.
“I used to wear 15 hats,” said Eugene. “I built cabinets, did finishing and sanding. Alex and Oleg did installations. I took care of that part of running the business, then once we got enough people I managed the shop and did sales. At one point I was painting in the evening and managing by day. The jobs came together based on our personalities. I dealt better with customers and was willing to say what’s necessary to get things done. Roman likes the details and making sure things are perfect. Alex is a workhorse and has good customer service. He knows how to smooth things out.”
Vixon’s business continues to prosper because of the quality of their work, strict adherence to schedules, special designs, and commitment to customer service.
Those are some of the reasons why Vixon’s products keep making appearances in the Parade of Homes and in some of the best homes in the area. They’ve developed great relationships with many local builders.
A custom built bathroom.
“We’ve been using Vixon since 2015, and they’ve probably done around a dozen projects with us,” said Cheri Clarkson, of Soaring Eagle Homes. “We appreciate that they are a family owned, local custom cabinet shop. They are extremely creative and willing to tackle any request we have. As a designer/custom home builder this is a critical element as each client is unique and every project is different. Whether it’s a special design element, custom stain color, secret door.… you name it, they can figure it out.
Their ever-growing business includes the expansion of their Vancouver showroom, which is located at 3315 NE 112th #60, Vancouver, WA 98682. Currently they have 15,000 square feet of shop space used to move in supplies, sand, cut, paint, finish, and assemble quality cabinets.
It runs like a fine oiled machine, using a combination of technology (laser-guided saws) and experienced craftsmanship paying attention to the tiniest of details.
Experience Matters: A Proud History of Craftsmanship
This is the fifth generation of Chernichenko carpenters with a rich history in the former Soviet Union.
“We came over to the United States in December 28, 1989,” said Eugene. “It was right before the full collapse of the Soviet Union. We saw it from here. We lived in Georgia, now the Republic of Georgia — in Batumi City. Georgia was the state. We lived on the Black Sea and it was a tourist place. When my dad got there with his parents, they moved and he worked in construction.”
Eugene parents felt a strong need to leave for the United States, and were sponsored by a church in Portland.
Nine months after arriving in Portland, the family moved to Vancouver. Eugene was 7 years old.
“My dad learned English while he was preparing to move here,” Eugene said. “When he got here he started translating their newsletters into the Russian language. He did that for New Traditions owner.
He did that for a number of years then went back into mill work, and worked for New Tradition Homes. We built homes for a few years in the late 90s then transitioned into a full cabinet shop.”
It’s a company that’s really focused, said Clarkson.
“Their quality is excellent,” she added. “They stand behind their work and have a great attitude when resolving issues when they arise.”
https://cdn.lacamasmagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/12/07074232/00D07922-7D90-4B54-BDEE-ADBF351E11B0.jpeg452982Ernest Geigenmillerhttps://cdn.lacamasmagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/07074147/lacamas_white_2-300x300.pngErnest Geigenmiller2019-12-11 16:31:262019-12-11 16:31:35Vixon: A Family-Owned, Premier SW Washington Cabinet Maker
Washougal, WA — New and returning Washougal School District (WSD) School Board members were sworn in to service at the December 10, 2019 board meeting after winning in the general election on November 5. Superintendent Dr. Mary Templeton administered the oath of office.
Jim Cooper was elected as the newest member to the WSD Board to represent District 1. Cooper brings a background as a college professor, higher education administrator, scientist, and business owner to the school board.
Board President Cory Chase (District 4) and member Angela Hancock (District 2) were re-elected in the November general election, and will serve four-year terms that expire in 2023.
https://cdn.lacamasmagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/12/07074236/CFE52FAA-2FFA-449D-ACDC-6BA3D706CA22.jpeg5421280Ernest Geigenmillerhttps://cdn.lacamasmagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/07074147/lacamas_white_2-300x300.pngErnest Geigenmiller2019-12-11 14:00:132019-12-11 14:02:13Washougal School District Board Members Sworn in to Service
Lily Atelier, located in Historic Downtown Camas, is having a daylong Holiday Open House this Thursday, December 12, ending with a special Jewelry Trunk Sale with Caryn Michelle.
The Holiday Open House begins at 10 am, when the store opens, and continues all day, while Michelle’s Trunk Show runs from 4-8 pm inside the iconic women’s boutique.
“We will have treats and special pricing,” says Marilyn Reed, owner of Lily Atelier. “We think you’ll really like Caryn Michelle’s Trunk Sale. There will be 10 percent off all of her jewelry on Thursday night.”
The Holiday Open House also offers the following:
Three $100 gift certificates raffled off during the day. Customers simply put names in the bucket.
Buy any item and get the second like item at 40 percent off.
50 percent off candles with every purchase of $100 or more.
Lily Atelier continues to receive new products on a regular basis. Be sure to visit their Facebook and Instagram sites to learn more.
About Caryn
Los Angeles-based Caryn Karotkin is a multifaceted artist, whose career in beauty and fashion spans more than 25 years. As a wife, mother, designer, entrepreneur, and athlete, she is equal parts feminine and fierce. Inspired by nature and the beauty of her surroundings, Caryn’s style embodies an effortless California chic, which translates brilliantly into her highly sought after jewelry.
Working with diamonds, semi-precious stones, and metals, Caryn puts a vintage spin on modern themes, resulting in an aesthetic that is delicate yet daring. Her statement pieces lend themselves toward collecting, as bracelets, rings, and necklaces, stack, layer and mix together beautifully.
Camas High School is inviting the public to participate in a public send-off Saturday at 9:30 am as the Papermaker Football team leaves town to head to Saturday’s State Championship game at Mt. Tahoma High School.
The team will travel via two chartered buses and will be escorted by first responder vehicles as it departs the high school at 9:30 am and travels through Downtown Camas on 4th Avenue.
CHS Athletic Director, Rory Oster, confirmed the plans, and encourages as many local residents and fans to line 4th Avenue. The hope is to have people lining the streets at Lutz Hardware and fill both sides of the street down past Natalia’s Cafe, Arktana, Nico Bella Salon, Papermaker Pride, Camas Gallery, Caffe Piccolo, Lizzabeth A, Camas Hotel, Liberty Theatre, Lily Atelier, and as far down the street as possible towards the mill.
Cheer Squad Coach, Brandy Reed encourages fans to bring posters, banners, etc. to show their support.
The Camas Football team (13-0) faces Bothell at 4 pm Saturday for the State Championship. Camas previously won the State title in 2016, which was also an undefeated season.
At its regular meeting on Tuesday, November 26, the Washougal School District (WSD) Board of Directors approved two levies — a replacement Educational Programs and Operations Levy (EPO) and a replacement Technology Levy to be placed on the February 11, 2020 ballot.
The levies would replace the current levies, which are set to expire December 31, 2020.
The Educational Programs and Operations Levy funds services and operations not funded by state or federal funding. These services include: health and safety; instructional support; athletics, musical after school activities, coding club (and other enrichment activities); student learning and staffing; security personnel; and operations and maintenance.
Levy dollars cover innovation projects, such as a Strings (orchestra) program. They could also cover a dual language immersion program.
The proposed Educational Programs and Operations Levy rates are projected to remain flat over the next three years (2021, 2022, and 2023) at $2.14 per $1,000 of assessed value (is projected on assessed value growth). They levy is projected to collect $7,392,656 in the first year of collection, $7,984,068 in 2022, and $8,622,793 in 2023.
“What was right for our district was also right for Camas School District,” said Dr. Mary Templeton, Superintendent of Washougal School District. “The Levy provides the funding that allows our district to invest in students, gives us capacity to innovate, and ensures we keep programs that let us nurture and challenge all students so that students rise every day. We are just trying to restore the pre-McCleary dollars that voters agreed to.
“We think the $2.14 allows us to grow and stay fiscally responsible. We think this investment that the local dollar makes in that is critical. This all lines up with our vision statement. We value the dollars that we get greatly, and we don’t want to collect one more dollar that we need knowing we must be responsible and efficient.”
Technology Levy dollars pay for the district’s 1:1 initiative, up-to-date computers and devices, classroom instructional technology, professional development and coaching, technology infrastructure and staffing, and curriculum and software.
“We’ve been very successful with the use of technology,” Templeton said. “We’ve see great student achievement with how we’re using tech in the classroom. We are, of course, hoping voters will support these efforts in the district. We do appreciate the opportunity to let the voters know this investment will support our children to be prepared for college. What you need to know as you graduate into the world has change significantly in the last 10-15 years.”
The proposed Technology Levy rates are projected to decline over the three years of the levy, with the rate per $1,000 of assessed value at $0.25 in 2021, $0.24 in 2022, and $0.22 in 2023. The Technology levy is projected to collect $845,000 in the first year of collection, $870,000 in 2022, and $898,000 in 2023.
As part of a Camas High School DECA marketing and fundraising program, several teams of students designed coffee labels and continue to sell coffee through Thursday, December 5.
The coffee bags cost $10 per bag and are roasted locally from BJ’s Coffee Roasters in Vancouver, WA
There are two offerings:
Primo Blend (Ground/Whole Bean) — One of their most popular blends. Smooth, mild and crisp for an excellent morning coffee. Medium Roast.
Espresso Blend (Whole Bean) — Their espresso blend consists of four very distinct origins. Together these coffees produce an espresso that is rich in flavor, with full body and luscious crema. Medium Roast.
Please make checks payable to Camas High School. Students must collect money and turn it in for full order fulfillment. There is an option to pay with the CHS online system, but your order must be paid no later than Thursday, December 5th. Click this link: https://wa-camas-lite.intouchreceipting.com/decacoffee/
Your order will be ready for delivery (by students) or pick up at CHS Lunch Box by Friday, December 13th.
Some of the coffee labels CHS students created.
“Camas DECA is donating 60 percent of their profits ($3 per bag) to the C.A.R.O.L. program that is coordinated with the Camas Fire Department,” said Camas DECA adviser, Suzie Downs. “The program provides food and gifts to families in Camas and Washougal who are struggling to make ends meet. The other $2 profit will go to Camas DECA to help offset competition travel costs.”
If you have any questions, please contact Suzie Downs at: [email protected]
The Camas DECA coffee project is part of the Marketing 1/Intro to Business curriculum to teach students about product branding and entrepreneurship. Each class is marketing and selling their own unique brand label to compete with the other three participating classes. This project helps students understand what it takes to brand a product, take it to market, sell it. They also have to deal with competition, as there are three other businesses selling coffee to their target market — you!
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