On Wednesday afternoon, the Clark County Medical Examiner’s Office released the name of the Vancouver teen who drowned at Lacamas Lake Tuesday evening.
The victim was 14-year-old Anthony Huynh, who was swimming with friends and jumping off the Lacamas Park walking bridge Tuesday as part of fun summer day outing. According to friends, once they noticed Huynh was missing they went looking for him and eventually called 911 for assistance.
Police quickly found his belongings, including his cell phone.
The cause of death is accidental drowning.
Shortly after 9 pm Tuesday, divers from Multnomah and Clark counties recovered the teen’s body from the lake after a 10-minute search. The Medical Examiner was called to the scene.
Through the day Wednesday, many have stopped by the bridge to pray, ponder and leave balloons, flowers and kind notes to the deceased and to his family.
Drownings have occurred in summer months at Lacamas Lake throughout its history.
Anthony Huynh, 14, of Vancouver, drowned at Lacamas Lake.
In Washington, there were 98 unintentional drowning deaths of residents in 2017. Drowning along with fire/burns, were the second leading cause of unintentional injury death for children and teens ages 1 – 17 in Washington. Source: WA Department of Health, Washington Tracking Network Data, accessed June 2019
In 2017, there were 4,508 drowning deaths in the United States, an average of 12 deaths per day. Source: CDC, WISQARS Injury Mortality Report, accessed June 2019
https://cdn.lacamasmagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/08/07075923/649B141D-4460-4E30-99A9-6D0C8EF802C2.jpeg12062373Ernest Geigenmillerhttps://cdn.lacamasmagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/07074147/lacamas_white_2-300x300.pngErnest Geigenmiller2019-08-21 19:39:212019-08-21 20:11:32County Medical Examiner Releases Identity of Lacamas Lake Drowning Victim
Washougal, WA — Washougal High School is introducing a new Advanced Placement (AP) course titled Computer Science Principles this year, bringing the total number of AP courses to 13. AP courses offer a rigorous, collegiate level curriculum that prepares students to succeed in college and other educational and training programs after graduation.
The Computer Science Principles course will feature volunteer instructors through the Microsoft Philanthropies TEALS program, bringing subject matter experience and opportunities for students to learn alongside industry professionals. In addition to computer science, students at WHS can take AP courses in subjects like art, calculus, biology, chemistry, English, music theory, physics, psychology, Spanish, and history. Students who complete the course can register for the AP exam in May, and students who perform well on the exam can earn college credit, providing an opportunity to skip introductory coursework when they enroll in college.
“We are excited about adding a new AP course subject for the 2019-20 school year,” said Aaron Hansen, WSD Assistant Superintendent for Human Resources and Student Services. “Last spring we were intentional with our message to students that we wanted all of our students to challenge themselves academically. Our AP enrollment reflects the good work our counselors did as we have many more students enrolled in AP courses this coming school year.”
According to Hansen, students who take AP courses learn valuable college-level study skills that will benefit them in all their high school classes and beyond. One of the benefits of taking an AP class is the exposure to the level of thinking, rigor and academics that Washougal students will experience in college, not to mention earning college level credit. “We are planning to continue to add more AP offerings at WHS as well as continuing to encourage all students to stretch themselves,” he said. “The work our students are doing now is preparing them to compete in the global economy and be able to effectively participate in a rapidly changing world.”
“Some families or students may believe that AP offerings are only available to students who ‘already get it’ or who already have all of the skill sets necessary to be successful in an AP course,” said Sheree Clark, WHS Principal. “This in fact is not the case at all. While our AP courses are rigorous, there is a high level of support within a small classroom setting that will coach and teach our students the skills necessary to be successful in these programs.”
Additionally, Clark points out that some believe AP courses are only for students on a 4-year college track. “While having AP courses on a students’ transcript for 4-year colleges can significantly increase a student’s chance for acceptance, these courses also provide essential 21st Century Skills needed for other post-secondary programs including apprenticeships, vocational programs and other career focused programs,” she said. “Many of these post-secondary programs and careers are seeking out candidates who are willing to take risks, work hard and challenge themselves.”
WHS students can also earn college credit while studying at WHS by taking College in the High School coursework in pre-Calculus, Calculus, and Spanish through a partnership with Central Washington University, and many additional courses through Dual Credit courses with Clark College and Mt. Hood Community College.
Helping students be prepared and be able to contribute to their community through career and college opportunities is a pillar of the new WSD Strategic Plan. These AP options prepare students academically to succeed in college and build job readiness skills to expand career opportunities. Students and families interested in learning more about Advanced Placement, Dual Credit, or College in the Classroom coursework can contact their school counselor. More information can also be found at http://www.washougal.k12.wa.us/whs/dual-credit-classes/
“At Washougal High School we believe that students should have every opportunity and access to rigorous courses, we want to see more of our students challenge and stretch their thinking beyond what is easy; if you take on the challenge, we will provide the high level of support,” Clark said.
https://cdn.lacamasmagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/08/07075916/997B65BD-E655-4CEC-B669-12AF9C287C64-scaled.jpeg10822560Ernest Geigenmillerhttps://cdn.lacamasmagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/07074147/lacamas_white_2-300x300.pngErnest Geigenmiller2019-08-21 19:37:492019-08-21 19:37:58Washougal High School Adds Computer Science Advancement Placement Class
Camas Police confirmed a Vancouver teen drowned at Lacamas Lake Tuesday evening. He was just 14.
The police say the teenager had been playing with friends, jumping off the Lacamas Park walking bridge shortly after 6 pm when they noticed he had not resurfaced. They then called 911.
Friends weren’t sure if he had left them behind, so the police canvassed the the area, and quickly found the teen’s bag, clothing and cellphone on shore nearby.
Shortly after 9 pm, divers from Multnomah and Clark counties recovered the teen’s body from the lake after a 10-minute search. The Medical Examiner was called to the scene.
Police say the teen’s family has been notified. His identity has not been released, but it is believed he was an incoming Union High School freshman.
We will update the story as more information becomes available.
https://cdn.lacamasmagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/08/07075929/0106ABD7-F8D6-46EF-840A-B0589C7F870B-scaled.jpeg12202560Ernest Geigenmillerhttps://cdn.lacamasmagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/07074147/lacamas_white_2-300x300.pngErnest Geigenmiller2019-08-20 23:34:582019-08-20 23:35:12Police: Vancouver Teen Drowns at Lacamas Lake Tuesday Evening
The new BurgerIM restaurant in Camas, near Costco, really is more than a place to get a good burger. It’s also a story about two immigrants, Chanly Va and Sang Quach, living the American dream.
The new restaurant opened its doors on June 13, as part of a larger BurgerIM franchise (based in Encino, CA) that specializes in gourmet-style burgers made fast.
“The food tastes really good, and we do have good burgers, and lots of variety,” said Va. “We have so many choices: Angus, Dry-aged, Spanish beef (spicy), crispy chicken, salmon, falafel burger, lamb, and the Impossible Burger, which is plant-based. It’s not GMO.”
“We also have gluten-free buns with lettuce options. As a customer, you can order a favorite or build your own. You don’t have to stay with a classic style. You can build whatever you like on the burger. We offer all the menu items that corporate offers. Whatever you can think of, and we have the ingredients, we can do it.”
The restaurant offers the aforementioned big burgers, and you may also order classics as duos or trios. You can match up your favorites and add your choice of toppings.
Sides include regular fries, sweet potato fries, onion rings, half and half, and styled fries with either garlic aioli, jalepenos and cheese, or bacon and cheese.
BugerIM also cooks up a lot of chicken wings, which are available in buffalo, BBQ, and sweet crunchy garlic.
“People always say we have the biggest wings in town,” said Va. “We have really good milkshakes made from fresh milk and real incredible cream. Each are made fresh. We are not fast food, we make gourmet food fast.”
Customers can also order two types of salads: House and Caesar, and they, too, can be customized.
BurgerIM offers a variety of fountain drinks, as well as beer and wine. And, you can purchase the Family Box that comes with eight small burgers, eight wings, onion rings and fries. The Party Box has 16 burgers.
Hawaiian Salmon Burger.A duo order with dry-aged beef, the UNCUT, and onion rings.
Chanly and Sang have been working hard, studying and saving for many years to get to this point.
“It took about eight months from franchise agreement to opening day,” said Va. “There’s one in Bend, OR but they haven’t opened yet. This ended up being the right location.”
So, why BurgerIM?
“I always wanted to own my own business, but didn’t have the drive until now,” said Va. “I visited my cousin in Texas and saw him doing a doughnut shop, but didn’t want to wake up at 2 am. We wanted to do something local and I saw the BurgerIM Facebook ad, and it sounded interesting.”
And, they really like BurgerIM’s business model. The chain first opened in 2011, and has expanded to 200 stores nationwide. BurgerIM means “many burgers” in Hebrew.
Chanly previously worked as a pharmacy tech at Wal-Mart, while Sang currently works as a Reliability technician at WaferTech, where he’s been employed for 21 years. After business hours, and during weekends, he works atBurgerIM. Their son, Tony, just turned 12.
“I love America,” said Sang, a refugee from Cambodia. “There’s so much you can do here, so much freedom!”
Sang escaped the Cambodian genocide that took 3 million lives, including his father.
“I was young, a little 3-year-old when I lost my dad,” he said. “We stayed there waiting for our acceptance into the United States, and we came here to Vancouver (in 1987) where I attended Fort Vancouver High School. I went to elementary school in Cambodia, and I didn’t get a chance to go to middle school. I went to Clark College and got my associates degree in Electronics. I tell my son to work hard and do your best. Now, today we’re opening this and take this lesson to do your best, work hard, be honest.”
Sang said coming to the United States was a real shock — in a good way.
“I was young, and it was like landing in a dream land. Even going to the restroom was a surprise with running water.”
Chany, also a Cambodian native, was born post-genocide. Sang returned to Cambodia briefly, they married, and returned to the United States in 1999. She learned English and started a production job that she kept for a decade, then she went onto school and became a pharmacy technician.
What has surprised them about being business owners?
“It’s great how local Camas supports business,” said Va. “I keep seeing people in Camas and they keep coming and supporting us. We keep seeing returning customers. They recommend us to their friends and family. We are a franchise but we are locally owned and operated. We live in Vancouver.”
The restaurant is located at 155 NW 192nd Avenue, Suite 107, Camas, WA 98607. 360-952-8656. To learn more about the company, visit www.BurgerIM.com
https://cdn.lacamasmagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/08/07080015/56A510B6-0301-439C-9643-54C6A19527EC-e1565893220758-scaled.jpeg12342560Ernest Geigenmillerhttps://cdn.lacamasmagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/07074147/lacamas_white_2-300x300.pngErnest Geigenmiller2019-08-15 16:28:432019-08-15 16:47:09The New BurgerIM: The Amazing Family Story Behind The Restaurant
Vancouver, Washington – The highly anticipated Columbia River water feature at Vancouver Waterfront Park (695 Waterfront Way) officially opened to the public today.
The interactive art installation was gifted to the City of Vancouver by City Council resolution on Monday, Aug. 5. The Vancouver Parks and Recreation Department will maintain the water feature as it draws locals and visitors to enjoy the city’s waterfront for years to come.
“I believe that carefully conceived environments can create places of meaning within communities,” said Larry Kirkland, the artist who designed the Columbia River water feature. “The best of public art can challenge, delight, educate and illuminate. But above all, it can celebrate the qualities that make each place unique and can create a sense of civic ownership. This pride of place is a building block for the future of these communities.”
Design and Details The Columbia River water feature journey begins with the monumental structure called Headwaters. This 12-foot tall and 16-foot wide stone and bronze monolith is oriented north and south to the adjacent Columbia River.
The east face is a cast bronze relief map of the Columbia Basin. The northern Rocky Mountains, Cascades and Coastal mountain ranges and river valleys are rendered in high relief to be touched and traced by human hands.
The west face is an engraved stone with a topographic map of the origins of the Columbia, the “Great River of the West.” Water cascades down it in a variable flow, reflecting seasonal changes in the flow of the river. The one-inch deep river flows for 150 feet along a molded riverbed past variable-height stacks of textured granite representing each of the Columbia River’s tributaries. More water flows from between these rocks into the original river. The water is chlorinated and can be waded through and played in by visitors.
Monument donors.
Water feature.
Facts about each of the tributaries are engraved on the dry side of each granite grouping. Intermingled with the factual text are quotes from literature that reference water and the flow of rivers. Combined, the facts and writingsmerge into a poetic and contemplative experience.
Donors to the $3.5 million project are recognized on the side of the Headwaters structure.
Donors are Steve and Jan Oliva, who also played a major role in the development of the Vancouver Waterfront, as well as the M.J. Murdock Charitable Trust. Other key donors are Steve and Jo Hansen, Al and Sandee Kirkwood, Barry Cain, Alvin Charles Berg, Mary Jane Berg, Susan Lynn Berg, Jim and Shirley Johnson, The Columbian, Dean and Kristin Kirkland Family, Marilyn Denham, and Kenneth E. and Eunice M. Teter.
“We’re really happy to have this water feature built,” said Jan Oliva. “This entire Vancouver Waterfront project has been in the works for 12 years, and there are so many good, wonderful people here in Vancouver. Larry Kirkland is the artist and John Grant (John Grant Projects) is the one who built the fountain. It’s designed to show the inlets of the Columbia flowing into it, and the ocean is represented at the end.
“It’s going to be great for little kids. Since we’re involved in the whole waterfront development this is a key piece that is going to the city from the waterfront development group. We love what’s happening here because we feel it’s helping the whole area. There’s a great walking loop that connects us to the land bridge and the Fort Vancouver Historic Site. It’s a good thing, I’m just happy and pleased with it.”
Design and Details About the Columbia River Water Feature
$3.5 million gift to the City of Vancouver, accepted by City Council resolution on August 5, 2019, from Columbia Waterfront, LLC.
The water is chlorinated and can be waded through and played in by visitors.
The Columbia River water feature journey begins with the monumental structure called Headwaters.
This 12-foot tall and 16-foot wide stone and bronze monolith is oriented north and south to the adjacent Columbia River.
The east face is a cast bronze bas relief map of the Columbia Basin. The northern Rocky Mountains, Cascades and Coastal mountain ranges and river valleys are rendered in high relief.
The west face is an engraved stone with a topographic map of the origins of the Columbia River.
Water cascades down it in a variable flow, reflecting seasonal changes in the flow of the river.
The one-inch deep river flows for 150 feet along a molded riverbed past variable-height stacks of textured granite representing each of the Columbia River’s tributaries.
Facts about each of the tributaries are engraved on the dry side of each granite grouping. Intermingled with the factual text are quotes from literature that reference water and the flow of rivers.
Donors to the $3.5 million project are recognized on the side of the Headwaters structure.
https://cdn.lacamasmagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/08/07080033/2C02E001-7142-46D1-B440-6319ED1A8348-scaled.jpeg9822560Ernest Geigenmillerhttps://cdn.lacamasmagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/07074147/lacamas_white_2-300x300.pngErnest Geigenmiller2019-08-09 16:10:092019-08-09 16:10:20Columbia River Water Feature at Vancouver Waterfront Park Opens
The following Crown Park information was prepared by the City of Camas:
Why not just replace the Camas Municipal Pool at Crown Park? We understand that many people loved Camas Municipal Pool and have fond memories of their time there. However, through public outreach, the majority of Camas citizens have expressed interest in a community facility that is usable year-round and provides multiple recreational amenities. The Crown Park location cannot accommodate the size of such facilities or the parking and traffic enhancements that would be needed with them. Construction of another outdoor pool at Crown Park, though less in cost, would only provide use for roughly 10 weeks each year and would only fulfill a fraction of the features and programs sought by most Camas residents.
What’s the plan for Crown Park? Public input gathered from 2017 to 2018 helped create the Crown Park Master Plan, which was presented to Camas City Council at its Nov. 5, 2018, workshop. Today, the plan serves as a vision for the park and a framework for future funding decisions. In 2019, we’ve been seeking bids, firming up costs, and starting to schedule work. Most improvements will be subject to the 2021-2022 budget cycle that begins next year. Here’s an overview of the proposed features included in the Crown Park Master Plan:
Interactive water feature
Large destination playground
Permanent restrooms
Outdoor amphitheater
Sports court
New ADA accessible pathways
Access improvements to Scout Hall
Flexible lawn space
New site furnishings
Upgraded irrigation system
Stormwater management gardens and updated plantings
Portions of these elements are already in the works:
Sports Court – In May 2019, an aging concrete slab that served as a basketball court was removed. In the upcoming months, we will be replacing it with a new multi-use sports court closer to Scout Hall and the play areas. Construction is anticipated for fall.
Upgraded Irrigation System – To ensure that new grass grows and thrives around the former pool site, an irrigation system is planned for installation in late July 2019, then the area will be reseeded. The orange fencing will remain until the grass is established, around late August 2019. Irrigation upgrades in other areas of the park will be made throughout the course of the project.
How does the Crown Park Master Plan relate to the proposed community aquatics center and sports fields? When the Parks Commission and City Council approved the proposed features set forth in the Crown Park Master Plan, they made the requirement that the City continue to actively pursue options to fund and develop a year-round aquatic facility. Based on that requirement, we’re working on plans to bring a year-round community aquatics center to Camas at a location that can handle more amenities, parking, and access. The design for the proposed community aquatics center includes skylights and roll-up doors that will provide an open air experience and connection to nature.
Will any trees in Crown Park be removed? No trees have been identified for removal. However, if a tree becomes identified as hazardous or bearing disease, it may be removed.
https://cdn.lacamasmagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/08/07080058/0CBBD710-30C3-4A03-BFD7-D4151F70F69B-scaled.jpeg12482560Ernest Geigenmillerhttps://cdn.lacamasmagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/07074147/lacamas_white_2-300x300.pngErnest Geigenmiller2019-08-08 11:58:402019-08-08 11:59:55City of Camas Answers FAQ’s Regarding New Plans for Crown Park
It’s August, and Vancouver Laser Skin Care Clinic has some great specials on Laser Genesis, Ultherapy, and laser hair removal.
What is Laser Genesis?
Laser Genesis is a highly effective treatment for targeting enlarged pores, texture and fine lines. Patients often describe the treatment as relaxing and therapeutic. They report a gentle warming of the skin’s surface during the procedure. Patients who incorporate IPL and Laser Genesis treatments as a part of their beauty routine maintain radiant, youthful skin.
Frequently Asked Questions About Laser Genesis
How does it feel?
Patients report a warming of the skin that is quite relaxing.
What is the downtime?
There is no down time.
How long before I see results?
The benefits can be seen instantly with your skin showing a healthy glow and will continue to improve over the following week.
Are there any side effects?
There are no side effects.
The August Laser Genesis special is get a Free Microdermabrasion with the purchase of a Laser Genesis treatment.
Laser Genesis: Before and after.
What is Ultherapy?
Ultherapy® is a non-invasive, non-surgical procedure that utilizes the power of focused ultrasound technology, and sound waves to simulate collagen to lift, tone and tighten the skin. The Ultherapy procedure can be performed on the eyes, brow, face, neck and under the chin and chest. This technology stimulates the production of collagen resulting in continuous improvement of the tone and tightness. An Ultherapy procedure can take anywhere from 30 minutes to 2 hours depending on the area treated. Ultherapy delivers outstanding results without surgery or downtime.
The August Ultherapy Special is Purchase a lower neck treatment get the upper face free ($1,500 savings!)
Visit www.VancouverLaserSkinCareClinic.com
Laser Hair Removal
Laser hair removal is a treatment that safely and effectively removes unwanted hair. It works by targeting the brown and black pigments in the hair, effectively reducing growth with each treatment.
When Vancouver Laser Skin Care Clinic (VLSCC) decided to move its offices to Downtown Camas, they brought more than 30 years of aesthetic laser and skin care experience and an array of treatments and products that rejuvenate skin and restore your youthful glow. They feel good when you look great.
Their office at 715 NE 5th Avenue is charming, and peaceful, and is part of the history and future of Camas, a quaint and successful town that many say is a city about wellness.
“We love being part of this wonderful and historic downtown scene,” said Keller, who owns VLSCC. “And, we invite you to come see what we’re all about. — from pre-teen/adult acne sufferers to mature patients.”
VLSCC offers many services, including: IPL, Chemical Peels, Microneedling, Ultherapy, Face and Leg Vein Removal, Botox, and more!
Friends and family are rallying together to assist Feast @316 Chef Benjamin Ortega, known to many as “Chef Ben,” “Benji” or “Benny” as he recovers from a serious car accident.
On July 17, Chef Ben was involved in a tragic car accident along the Oregon Coast. According to Feast @316 owner, Melissa McCusker, a log truck turned toward the highway without stopping, and Chef Ben didn’t have enough time to stop, causing his car to slide under the truck and become wedged underneath.
“It took first responders 90 minutes to get him out,” said McCusker. “Then they took him to Portland OHSU and he had a dislocated jaw, fractured vertebrae, broken collar bones, broken ribs. He had two surgeries. He’s at home now recovering. He has worked for Feast for four years, and has a four-year-old son named Chinook and a loving wife, Ingrid.”
McCusker said he has insurance covered through Feast, but the GoFundMe is there to cover the extra expenses.
Chef Ben with son, Chinook.
“He’ll likely be out for a good three months,” said McCusker. “Everyone’s been pitching in in the kitchen.”
The GoFundMe organizers said “After seeing the photos of the accident it is unbelievable that he survived and the injuries were not worse. Surgery was done to fix the broken jaw and today he is home under the care of his family. It will be some time until Benjamin can go back to work. Until then, we humbly ask for your financial support to help with medical and living expenses.”
Feast patrons recognize Chef Ben for his creative culinary abilities and for his contributions to the excellent food prepared at their restaurant. Feast @316 is local steakhouse and a favorite destination for many. To learn more about Feast @316, visit www.CamasFeast316.com
https://cdn.lacamasmagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/07/07080233/815A07D1-ECCA-4F97-933A-83B9E93DC055.jpeg378760Ernest Geigenmillerhttps://cdn.lacamasmagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/07074147/lacamas_white_2-300x300.pngErnest Geigenmiller2019-07-31 19:57:062019-07-31 19:57:14Feast @316’s Chef Ben Recovering From Serious Car Accident
Vancouver, WA — The law firm, McKeanSmith LLC, officially moved into their spacious new offices at the stunning Vancouver Waterfront on April 1, and they couldn’t be happier.
“I love the fact that Vancouver is reclaiming its waterfront,” said Collin McKean, the firm’s co-founder. “I find that being next to water is an inspiring place to be. I grew up living on a body of water and it’s a great way to give clients a calming location to do our work and help them through their life transitions.”
The firm, established in 2015, moved their nine employees from their downtown Vancouver office to the fifth floor of the Murdock Tower, which has commanding views of the Columbia River and the I-5 bridge. The nearly 3,800 square foot space gives McKeanSmith room to grow. Their Vancouver office provides legal services in the following areas: family law (including collaborative family law), employment law, business law, general litigation, and criminal law. They also have offices in Portland and Hillsboro.
“As lawyers, we work hard, sometimes long hours for our clients, and it’s important to be in a place you like to be in,” said McKean. “Given we have a front row seat to the waterfront, we’ve taken a unique approach to the gathering space. The location is also comforting to our clients, who are often going through major life changes.”
Several McKeanSmith employees at Vancouver’s Waterfront.
The move is also a reflection of the firm’s positive momentum.
“We have a good reputation so we continue to get referrals in from our clients for family law work, and our attorneys are very active in the community,” said McKean. “We value them, and invest in small businesses and support them. We’re looking to increase our employment law practice and support for small businesses. We’re handling typical small business issues with transactional litigation needs.”
And, their work isn’t going unnoticed by their peers.
“We’re proud our lawyers have been recognized in Vancouver for Best Lawyer designations. Annelisa Smith, Deanna Rusch, and I are Super Lawyer Rising Stars,” said McKean. “We’re also ranked top tier in the Portland/Vancouver metro area by US News and World Report, which ranks all firms.”
The office, with its modern touches, brings in a lot of natural light, and a nearly 180 degree view of the waterfront and downtown Vancouver.
“The office offers a calm and serene location and atmosphere because whether they’re new or existing they’re all in some form of turmoil, so you can’t underestimate the importance of that,” said Rusch.
“I have a beautiful view of Mt. Hood, the river and the I-5 Bridge, and kind of just the whole eastern part of the waterfront development that is still under construction. I like watching the boats go by.”
“Family law was the cornerstone of the practice so that was really what they had been doing. Since then, Collin especially has grown into other practice areas. So, when I joined the firm in October 2017 it was to continue my family law practice, which is mostly in Clark County. I represent anyone, mostly in divorces, and my clients range from little to no assets to high assets.”
Art from Attic Gallery in Camas.
And, as part of their commitment to small business and things local, the firm invested heavily in local art to adorn their new office space.
Rusch put partners McKean and Smith in touch with Maria Gonser, owner of Attic Gallery in downtown Camas. Gonser works with local artists, and assisted them with the whole process, even taking a Sunday afternoon to hang the artwork in entrance, hallway, and conference room.
“The art on left-hand side in the conference room are from the Sandra Jones Campbell Pendleton series,” said Gonser. “She had 30 paintings in that series. The pieces on the other side are all from Pendleton. The ‘Broad Shoulders’ cowboy is her father. The ones on the right are inspired from old photographs. She’ll get a series of photographs from a particular era and she recreates those pictures in her paintings.”
McKeanSmith also bought an Earl Hamilton abstract, wood carvings by Monica Setziol-Phillips, and a massive piece by Cedar Lee.
“Collin and Annelisa went through this process with great detail,” said Rusch. “I’m very appreciative of their support and follow through.”
https://cdn.lacamasmagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/07/07080249/F13CB18F-344D-4F17-BE95-391B0D4CB94C-scaled.jpeg8812560Ernest Geigenmillerhttps://cdn.lacamasmagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/07074147/lacamas_white_2-300x300.pngErnest Geigenmiller2019-07-31 11:47:122019-07-31 11:48:00McKeanSmith Law Firm Expands Into Murdock Vancouver Waterfront Tower
One Stop Home Furnishings has a rich Camas history and a proven track record at recognizing trends and being there for their customer base. We sat down with store owners Dave and Molly Fletcher as they answered questions about business, family, and local history. Please enjoy this Q&A format.
The store is located at 2140 SE 8th Avenue, right at the SR 14 roundabout and on-ramp.
How long has One Stop Home Furnishings been here?
The business started in 1954, when it was incorporated. My grandfather started it in the One Stop Shopping Center, the same complex where Domino’s Pizza is today. My grandmother was a driving force. My grandparents built that shopping center. It was one of the first in the northwest, and it was revolutionary. There was free parking. They had a grocery store, a shoe store, a hardware store, Nan Henriksen’s father had a drug store — all in one center. I remember as a kid going to some of those stores.
Hazel and Mickey Schwary were the ones who started it in 1954. Then dad and mom, Winn and Joanne Fletcher, came in 1958.
They started in the back side where the driving school used to be. Then after my father came in, they expanded, and added furniture and mattresses. Eventually, we moved into the anchor spot, and then we moved into this much larger location on April 1, 1998. We’ve been here 21 years.
We were in the old place for 44 years, and we’ve been here at this location for 21 years, so now we’re the oldest independent furniture store by quite a bit.
We bought the business from my mom and dad, and I’ve been working it since 1983. Molly came in seven years ago full-time. Needless to say, it’s a family business. We work pretty hard at it.
We’ve been here almost 65 years. And, there are several other longtime local family-run businesses, as well — such as Lutz, Gunderson Les Schwab Tires, Runyan’s, Westlie Ford, Columbia Litho and Washougal Lumber. We all have longevity. I believe that businesses don’t hang around a long time if they don’t treat customers well.
This vibrant blue adds pop to any family living space.
What do you want to be known most for?
Good quality product at good prices and great values. I think also the fact that we’ve been here so long people can trust us. And, if a problem arises, we react quickly. We work hard to maintain a good reputation in the community.
We get a lot of five stars on our ratings, but this is how we grew up — by taking care of people. We take care of people, not account numbers.
It’s a pretty personal approach, we’re not on commission here. It’s a “turtle and the hare” type of approach, and we’re the turtle. The pace is a little different than some stores. Doing business this way is more comfortable and fun. This is the type of business we really enjoy.
We’re also very proud of the 59-year run we had selling appliances, but it got to the point where there were too few places to buy furniture, and many places to buy appliances. We felt there would be an increasing need for furniture and mattresses in our area, due to growth projections. The trick is staying current, and adapting to new trends.
My wife is so good with colors and decorating. We have designers that we work with, and we do have a few that we recommend.
I would say we have a friendly atmosphere, we go out of our way by helping people match up what they have in their minds with what we can offer. We don’t expect to close every sale, but we are very competitively priced.
A reclining sectional sofa.
What are all the things you sell?
Stanton — we like them because they’re local and family owned, been around for 40+ years. Beautyrest, Serta, Ashley, England Furniture, which is owned by Lazy Boy, which is made in Tennessee. They have so many fabrics. Aspen makes case goods, anything with wood — bedroom sets, dining sets, occasional tables. Whittier Wood, made in Eugene, is also a very quality line. We have 12-15 brands that we do most of our business with.
Why should people visit One Stop Home Furnishings?
Price is always king. You don’t stay in business for 65 years if you’re not priced well. Plus, there’s there personal touch. If there are problems we will deal with them because it’s a personal thing to me. I take it personally if we goof up.
We really try to make sure that people get what they pay for, and we want people to know we care.
We say hello and let people absorb what we have, there’s no pressure here.
We have an upstairs bargain area, too. Our main focus, though, is selling quality items.
And, it’s been interesting over these 65 years, we’ve seen many brands that didn’t survive us. I went to Camas High School, graduated in 1974, and I’ve seen a lot of changes to the area.
We go to two furniture markets each year and we keep up with new products, colors, fabrics, and styles. Every 18-24 months colors start to change.
One Stop Home Furnishings offers a great selection of mattresses and bed frames.
Even in today’s Internet world, we encourage customers to try it before they buy it. Lay down, sit down, recline, feel it. Usually with things you’re going to sleep on, you would feel more comfortable trying it instead of just hoping it works.
We’re quite a different store from 10 years ago by getting out of the appliance business and upgrading much of our furniture offerings.
People are usually surprised and, hopefully, impressed by what they see inside. If someone has never been in before, we always invite them to stop in for just a visit. Plus, come by and meet our four-legged mascots, Cubby and Cooper!
https://cdn.lacamasmagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/07/07080308/503C6591-0FD3-4D07-B0DF-985678A614CB-scaled.jpeg13222560Ernest Geigenmillerhttps://cdn.lacamasmagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/07074147/lacamas_white_2-300x300.pngErnest Geigenmiller2019-07-31 11:12:582019-07-31 21:03:00One Stop Home Furnishings: Success Through Three Generations
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