In 2019, Lacamas Magazine published more than 1,000 stories, videos, and social media posts, so we put together a Year in Review video report that spotlights about half of them in 1 second images.
From sports to politics, dining and news, our company has worked hard to bring current stories in a timely manner.
2019 (January 2, to be specific) started off with the Small Business Revolution (SBR) tour of Camas for two days. Several members of the SBR team, including the show’s star, Amanda Brinkman, started their 10-city tour in Mill Town getting to know merchants and held a town celebration at Grains of Wrath. They filmed several segments at local stores and restaurants, and brought the attention of local news stations.
In December, the Camas High School football team won the 4A State Championship defeating Bothell 35-14 at Mt. Tacoma Stadium. The boys named the season “Revenge Tour” and finished with a perfect 14-0 record.
In between, there were major accidents, a contentious Fall election, sports championships, along with tragedies and triumphs.
Meet 14 year-old Ben Schluter, a Camas High School freshman and two-time Oregon State Champion boxer with an eye on a National title.
Ben won his second consecutive State title on November 30, and even though he lives in Camas, his gym is in Portland, so he fights out of Oregon.
“I won the State title in Medford, then I go to Regionals in Boise, Idaho on January 6,” Ben said. “If I win that I go to Nationals to compete with kids in the 114-pound division — up to 16 years old. You have to meet certain weight classes and they fight each other, and depending on age it’s 1 minute, 1-minute-30, 2 minutes and 3-minute rounds.”
Ben competes in 1:30 and 2:00 minute rounds. Has never been knocked out, but has been knocked down.
“It’s a win by decision at this age group,” said Tim Schluter, Ben’s father. “They place a great deal of emphasis on safety. If they notice a kid getting overwhelmed, they’ll end it. All these bouts are pretty competitive. A vast majority by decisions. It’s not cumulative scoring, it’s round by round. If he wins more rounds than his opponent, then they award him the decision. You don’t know results until they announce it.”
Everyone has three rounds in amateur boxing, and a win is defined by one of these areas:
Knockout
Judge stops the fight
By decision (if it goes all the way to the very end)
A boxer for seven years, Ben trains at West Portland Boxing every Monday, Wednesday and Friday.
“It’s a little drive but it helps me a lot,” said Ben, the second of four brothers (he’s the only boxer; his brother Cole wrestles for Camas). “My workouts last two hours, but I usually get there early and go run on a treadmill. On my off days I work out at home. I usually run 3-4 miles and work out inside my garage. I do this year round. It helps me with self-discipline. I like getting belts, trophies and lots of wins. And I like hitting people.”
Ben loves being a boxer. With his father, Tim Schluter. Photos by Nest and Love Photography. www.NestandLove.com
And, what does mom say?
“My husband goes to the majority of the matches, so he actually travels with Ben often,” said Kim Schluter, Ben’s mother. “Sports like boxing and wrestling are so different, and it’s very one-on-one and individual and it’s given him so much determination, drive and character. It helps in maturity because it’s very individual. He has some great coaches and mentors. I hesitated when he started.”
Although Ben has boxed since second grade, Tim said it’s only been the last three years where it’s been his singular focus.
“I’ve always been a fan on the sport and we watched it together and he pursued it,” said Tim. “When he was young, it was more casual. The last three years he was single-minded to this sport. There are so many misconceptions about boxing — it’s far more of a mental sport. There are so many kids that are bigger, stronger and faster, but they don’t make it because there’s no drive, persistence or grit. It’s like all sports — it’s an allegory of life. You’re just competing against yourself.”
“It’s just seeing the satisfaction of winning, I have a really great coaches: Jason Marquiot and Victor Morales, Sr., and a great mentor with professional boxer Victor Morales, Jr. who attended Union High School,” said Ben. “He has 13 wins, 7 knockouts, and he’s shown me how to keep pressing forward.”
Ben is satisfied with the personal development, which Tim said is hard to see day to day, but comparing past videos makes it more clear.
Coaching is about learning the basics: straight punches, feet work, how to move, your reaction time, learning learn how to counter. There are lots of workouts, hitting the bag, shadow boxing.
“There’s a group that trains together,” said Ben. “There’s a big group. We have 25 people there, and five or six of them are competing, while others are there to just work out. I really saw that when I first started, then I saw others getting trophies, and belts and wins. There’s a lot of self-motivation. At home workouts, I shadow box at the gym, so here I do jump ropes and running, push ups, sit ups.”
“When I’m done with a tough opponent, a lot of times I feel like I’m gonna throw up. A lot of time I’m really gassed which is why we don’t have two fights in one day.”
Last year, Ben competed in the 13-14 year bracket at Nationals in Kansas City, Missouri. There are eight regions that meet at Nationals. USABoxing.org is the governing body for all the amateur tournaments.
“I want to win Nationals, just one step at a time,” he said. “It’s a very mental sport, and you try to figure out how to punch and control your anger.”
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.
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