Tag Archive for: Camas

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City of Camas to Begin Application Process to Fill Vacant Council Seat

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.

More information, including application instructions at https://www.cityofcamas.us/city-clerk/page/ward-1-council-vacancy

Applications are also available for pickup from City Hall, 616 NE 4th Ave.

The reason for Roberts’ abrupt resignation is unknown.

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Living: How to Improve Your Mobile Home’s Curb Appeal

Mobile homes often have a reputation for being plain and unexciting. Many people may not consider them the most exciting or interesting when it comes to outdoor projects. However, there are several ways to improve the curb appeal of your mobile home. Here are just a handful of our favorite projects for you to consider.

Adding a Front Garden

Flowers and other plants are a great way to add some color and vibrancy to any front lawn and increase your home’s curb appeal. It’s a good idea to keep any large shrubs or bushes away from your home’s skirting if you ever need to make repairs or replace it, but adding some plants is a great way to spruce things up. Consider some of your favorite flowers or small trees to make your home stand out more. Aside from a garden, keeping your grass manicured and watered adds a more vibrant green that looks lush and inviting.

Installing a Deck

Many manufactured homes have stairs leading up to the front door. Consider installing a front deck if you have the space for it and your neighborhood allows such modifications. Decks offer a lot of curb appeal and give homeowners a place to relax outside and wave to passersby. There are many different size and style options when constructing your deck and varieties of stairs to grant people access. Consider investing in unique columns for your new deck to give it some visual flair for extra curb appeal.

A New Front Door

Sometimes the simplest way to improve the curb appeal of your mobile home is to install a new front door. Many manufactured homes have functional but simplistic doors that don’t do much to stand out—finding a door with an ornate glass design or color that brings out the rest of your home does wonders when looking for simple renovation ideas. However, we recommend picking a door that matches the décor of your home well enough that it doesn’t become too distracting.

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New Artists, Offerings Will Delight at Camas Vintage & Art Faire

The 13th annual Camas Vintage & Art Faire will return to the tree-lined streets of Downtown Camas on Saturday, August 27, from 9 am-3 pm. This event will feature over 60 vendors including local artists and artisans in a variety of styles and mediums, as well as merchants featuring vintage, antique, and repurposed items.

Artists will showcase their professional paintings, fiber art, ceramics, upcycled works, photography, hand-crafted jewelry, metal work, and more. Vintage vendors will feature a wide variety of indoor and outdoor vintage decor, as well as vintage clothing, furniture, jewelry, and accessories. The event is located on 4th Avenue and Birch Streets, near Camas Antiques at 305 NE 4th Avenue.

Washougal fabric, multimedia, and collage artist Sandy Moore of Sandy Moore Arts will join the faire for the first time this year. Her portrait and seascape collages combine hand dyed fabric, paints, ink, and free-motion stitching. Other new art vendors include Kary Lane Photography, who features images from the Pacific Northwest. Recycle With Soifer offers creatures made from upcycled metals and other materials. Keith E. Russell showcases realistic paintings of classic cars and other automobiles. Other returning art vendors include, Girl in the Pearl, Liz Pike Art, One Little Blackbird, Windy Hill Weavers, Women, Wine & Words, and many others.

Belle Flower Farm is also a new vendor at this event. Pam Richey Curtis offers home-grown flowers in vintage vessels. Her designs feature vintage teapots, bushel baskets, and curated antique vases. Lady Outlaw Antiques will add a Western flair to the faire with her collection of vintage boots, cowboy hats, and jewelry.  Moltwear, who creates apparel and accessories from vintage lace, buttons, and textile remnants will return for 2022. Other returning vendors include fan favorites like Dora Louin her vintage pink and white travel trailer, H Street Alley Antiques, Dickey’s Décor, Lil Red Barn and many more. For a complete list of all art and vintage vendors, visit https://downtowncamas.com/event/camas-vintage-art-faire.

Bret Malmquist will play jazz guitar from 10 am-12 pm and the Carol Rossio Jazz Trio will perform their unique blend of French jazz and pop from 12:30 pm-3 pm. In addition to our many popular downtown restaurants, additional dining options will include Getta Gyro, BlackDog Hotdogs, Doug’s Kettle Corn, and treats and pastries by Truly Scrumptious.

“We so look forward to this event each year. It’s such a lovely combination of funky finds and truly breath-taking works of art, all on the streets of our dynamic downtown.” Says Jan Carter, Event Coordinator for the Downtown Camas Association. “Chatting with local artists and collectors from all walks of life is one of the highlights of our whole Summer.”

Vintage Vendor registrations are still being accepted and registration information can be found here: https://downtowncamas.com/event/camas-vintage-art-faire.

The Downtown Camas Association hosts the Camas Vintage & Art Faire,  and the event is sponsored by Camas Antiques. The DCA works year-round to strengthen and promote Downtown Camas through partnerships, events, beautification and historic preservation projects, economic development, advocacy, and tourism functions. For information on the DCA and other downtown events, visit www.downtowncamas.com.  

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Why Horseback Riding is the Perfect Hobby

Anytime you can get outside and enjoy Mother Nature, you must take advantage of it, especially if you can do it on the back of a beautiful horse. For that and the following reasons, horseback riding proves to be the perfect hobby. 

Mental Boost

Few things are as relaxing as strolling on a trail atop a horse. Not only is it a serene setting to forget about the stresses of everyday life, but it’s nice to have a confidant along for the journey. Having a horse as a companion has a soothing effect on your mind when feeling overwhelmed. 

From staying active and spending time with a furry friend, the serotonin boost you get helps push you through any psychological obstacles in your way. Additionally, riding a horse requires a strong mental acumen, considering you must keep an attentive eye, balance and focus while on the saddle. 

Strengthens the Body

As wonderful as horseback riding is for your mental well-being, it’s just as beneficial physically—for you and the horse. Although horseback riding is a leisurely activity, it requires a lot of physical prowess to control a horse, particularly if you enjoy kicking it up a notch and cantering. 

If it’s your first ride, you’ll likely feel sore around your abdominals and lower back the following day. As you ride more regularly, those aches and pains will fade away.

Riding a horse requires excellent posture; therefore, your hamstrings and quads will feel the brunt of the pain as they keep you upright. But your posture from your strengthened core and upper leg muscles will make any schoolteacher proud. 

Teaches Responsibility 

Being responsible is an essential component of owning and riding a horse. If you are negligent in your care, the horse’s health suffers, making it impossible to ride them. For parents, this is an excellent opportunity to teach their children accountability.

Simple things like brushing their coat, feeding them and changing their water give kids a chance to prove they can put more on their plate. You can also do these tasks together as a family, giving you an opportunity for quality time. 

Fun With or Without Company 

When something is equally enjoyable on your lonesome as it is with a group of friends, it’s an activity worth exploring. Horseback riding falls into that category because hopping on the horse and wandering through the wilderness is as fun by yourself as it is with a company. However, if you are a novice, you should go with a guide or someone else capable of assisting you if an issue develops. 

These reasons prove horseback riding is the perfect hobby for anyone needing a mental and physical boost. There should be an opportunity to hop on a horse regardless of where you live, so take advantage of it. 

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Fern Prairie ART FEST Features 10 Local Artists July 30-31

Fern Prairie, WA — The third annual Fern Prairie ART FEST is a two-day event connecting local artists and the community on Saturday and Sunday, July 30-31 from 10 am to 4 pm. The ART FEST is staged in the peaceful and tranquil setting of Shangri-La Farm, located 1.5 miles north of Lacamas Lake just outside the city limits of Camas, Washington. A total of 10 artist booths will be featured in the juried show.

“These fine artists are excited to show and sell their work at ART FEST,” said organizer and local artist Liz Pike. Liz will be joined by artists Sarah Bang, Bev Birdwell, Cheryl Folkers, Dave Garbot, David Gerton, Suzanne Grover, Charlene Hale, Amy Jan Ernst, Cheryl Mathieson, and Keith Russell. Original work includes paintings in oils, acrylics and watercolor, pastels, mixed media, pottery, fused and enamel glass, jewelry, pen and ink, and copper mixed media.

The public is invited to take in original works of art surrounded by the beautiful gardens at Shangri-La Farm. Attendees will park at rented Grove Field Airport parking lot, 632 NE 267th Avenue, Camas, WA. Guests may either walk the 1/4 mile trail through the woods to Shangri-La Farm or take the free “Sunflower Mobile” shuttle service. The Sunflower Mobile is an art piece all on its own, hand painted by Liz Pike in oils on fiberglass in her signature sunflower motif. The free shuttle will be available to transport attendees from the airport parking lot to Shangri-La Farm on both days, Saturday and Sunday, July 30 and 31 between 10am and 4pm.

For more information, contact Liz Pike at 360-281-8720 or email [email protected]. 

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Camas Days Parade Features Marquita Call as Grand Marshal on July 23

Following two years of pandemic related restrictions, the Camas Days Hometown Festival is roaring back to life on Friday and Saturday, July 23 and 24th. One of the highlights is the Camas Days Parade which attracts more than 10,000 spectators. This year, Marquita Call will serve as Grand Marshal. Marquita was named business person of the year by the Camas-Washougal Chamber of Commerce in 2021. 

Marquita Call was raised in Camas and has deep roots here. Her dad, Art Gaiani, built more than 50 homes in Camas. Her grandmother Marie Eymer played piano at the Liberty Theatre when it opened in 1927. Marquita graduated Camas High School in 1962. Her first job was at the Ideal Corner Cafe at the age of 15. She also worked at Dairy Queen with classmate Denis Hayes, the International Chairman of Earth Day. She and her friends started the first recycling center in Camas in the late 60s. She taught Sunday school at Zion Lutheran Church for 20 years, where her mother Lenora Gaiani served as superintendent. 

Marquita has owned Camas Gallery for the past 12 years. Her gallery has been voted Best of Clark County for seven years in a row. In 2012, the Downtown Camas Association (DCA) honored Marquita with its “Something New” award and then in 2013, the DCA presented her with its “Spirit Award.” 

Marquita is known for her infectious personality. She welcomes visitors to her gallery with warmth and enthusiasm and freely shares her historic knowledge of Camas. One visitor claimed Marquita is to Camas what Dolly Parton is to Pigeon Forge, TN.

“One thing that will never change about Camas is its sense of wellness,” says Marquita. “I love this very special town,” she said. 

In addition to the popular Saturday Camas Days parade, a children’s parade is on Friday, July 22 at 12:15 pm. Most of the events continue over two days, Friday and Saturday, July 22 and 23. Two day events include a beer and wine garden with live music from 5 pm to 11 pm along with a street festival featuring more than 80 artisans and vendors, and family fun on Kids’ Street, open from 11 am to 8 pm. Visit CWChamber.com to download full schedule of events. For more information, contact Camas Washougal Chamber at 360-834-2472. 

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Camas Days: ‘Experience The Magic of Camas’ Schedule of Events

The annual Camas Day celebration is returning Friday, July 22 and Saturday, July 23, with extended events on Sunday, July 24. There will be a special concert on July 21.

Sponsored by Georgia Pacific – Camas Mill, Waste Connections, Wafertech LLC, Columbia Credit Union, Vancouver Clinic, The Columbian Newspaper, You Move Me, Minuteman Press Camas, Sip & Paint for Fun Art Farm, Camas Boutique Hotel, The Camas-Washougal Post Record, City of Camas and the Camas-Washougal Chamber of Commerce.

SCHEDULE OF EVENTS

THURSDAY, July 21

6:30 pm – 8:30 pm CONCERT IN THE PARK @ Crown Park featuring Kevin Selfe and the Tornadoes (Blues)

FRIDAY, July 22nd

10:00 am – 8:00 pm VENDOR BOOTHS OPEN Six City blocks, downtown Camas. Handmade crafts, gifts, food and more!

10:00 am – 8:00 pm FOOD BOOTHS Birch between 3rd and 4th Avenue. Food from all over the world, and your classic festival favorites!

11:00 am – 8:00 pm KIDS STREET: 50ft inflatable slide, obstacle course, games and more on Dallas & 4th.

11:30 am KIDS PARADE LINE UP & JUDGING: In front of City Hall, 4th & Franklin. 12:15 pm KIDS PARADE BEGINS

5:00 pm – 11 pm (Gates close at 10:30) BEER & WINE GARDEN. On Birch Street, between 4th & 5th. Live Music! Blues rock & classic rock all evening long! $5 entry at the door, 21 and over only.

Entertainment: 5:00 pm – 7:00 pm The Beth Willis Band & 7:00- 10:30: The Caddies

Camas Days

SATURDAY, July 23

10:00 am – 8:00 pm VENDOR BOOTHS OPEN Six City blocks, downtown Camas. Handmade crafts, gifts food and more.

10:00 am – 8:00 pm FOOD BOOTHS Birch between 3rd and 4th Avenue. Food from all over the world, and your classic festival favorites.

USED BOOK SALE at the Camas Library Friday 10am-6pm, Saturday 10am-6pm and Sunday 10am to 3pm.

11:00 am – 8:00 pm KIDS STREET: 50ft inflatable slide, obstacle course, games and more on Dallas & 4th.

11:00 am CAMAS DAYS GRAND PARADE – “Experience the Magic of Camas” themed parade.

4th Avenue, Oak to Adams.

Immediately following the grand parade – SENIOR ROYALTY LUNCHEON honoring Camas Days’ Royal Queen, Molly Coston, at Zion Lutheran Social Hall 3rd and Garfield.

1:00 pm BATHTUB RACES 4th & Franklin. Sign up sheet is on the Chamber website.

5:00 pm – 11 pm (Gates close at 10:30) BEER & WINE GARDEN. On Birch Street, between 4th & 5th. Live Music! Blues rock & classic rock all evening long! $5 entry at the door, 21 and over only.

Entertainment: 5:00 pm – 7:00 pm: The Beth Willis Band & 7:00- 10:30: The Hot Shots

5:30 pm – 8:00 pm STEAK FEED AT GROVE FIELD: Flyit Hangar, Grove Field Airport CWAA Steak Feed!

$30.00 per plate!
A 12 oz. top sirloin steak barbecued to how you like it!
Baked potato, salad, and rolls.
Cake for dessert.
Barbeque Auction!!
The Ever Popular Pie Auction!!!
First 100 Steaks to sell, first-come, first-served!

Proceeds benefit CWAA scholarship fund. Bring your own steak knife!

SUNDAY, July 24

8:00 am – 7:00 pm ANNUAL SOFTBALL TOURNAMENT, contact George Eckman (360) 713- 2510.

11:00 am – 4pm PICNIC IN COLOR: Held in downtown Camas on Cedar between 4th and 5th Avenue.

12:00 pm DUCKY DERBY drawing at the Picnic in Color!

Camas Days

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Events: Camas Summer Concerts in the Park to Kick Off July 7

CAMAS, WA — For the 28th year, Camas Parks & Recreation is set to host the popular Summer Concerts in the Park series in Crown Park. This free concert series offers family-friendly performances in a variety of musical styles.

The free Summer Concerts in the Park will take place every Thursday in July from 6:30 pm – 8:30 pm, at Crown Park, located at 120 NE 17th Ave.

This year’s first act will be CJ Mickens, July 7, featuring his iconic Pop/Urban/Contemporary style. 

The 4 Kings with their amazing Soul-Jazz groove follows July 14. On July 21, Kevin Selfe & 

The Tornadoes bring award-winning Blues music to the stage. 

Finally, Shades of Huey will wrap up the series July 28, featuring the well-known cover songs of Huey Lewis and the News.

Food concessions will not be available this year, however, you can support your local restaurants by purchasing take-out meals from a variety of Downtown Camas restaurants or from Top Burger, located across the street from the park. Picnic dinners are always welcome.

The Summer Concerts in the Park series is coordinated by Camas Parks and Recreation. The concerts are offered to the public for free due to the generous support and sponsorships from Riverview Community Bank and Camas Parks Foundation. No alcohol, dogs or other animals are allowed in the park. 

For the concert details, closer to the events, visit www.cityofcamas.us/parks and click on “Special Events.”

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CSD Asst. Superintendent Williams Accepts Position at Evergreen Public Schools

Camas, WA — On Wednesday, Camas School District (CSD) Assistant Superintendent, Dr. Charlene Williams, a champion of student equity programs, announced via email she has accepted a position as Deputy Superintendent at Evergreen Public Schools. She has been employed by CSD since 2016.

This is her email: 

Dear Camas Family,

“It has been my honor and pleasure to work and serve alongside you these last few years. I have learned so much with and from you. I will be serving as the new Deputy Superintendent for Evergreen Public Schools and wishing the best for each of you as we continue on our journey to see and serve each and every student.

With love and gratitude,

Dr. W

Williams received WASA’s 2022 Columbia River Region Award of Merit for effective leadership.

“Dr. Williams has been a tremendous champion in the Camas School District, as well as Clark County, ensuring that our students and families experience equity in access and opportunities,” Camas School District Interim Superintendent Doug Hood said in a news release. “She understands the power of coming together to learn by listening to our students and families who have been historically marginalized, and by engaging our community in a dialog to reflect on our own beliefs, deepen understanding, and work together to create equitable systems and practices.”

Camas High School is also seeking to replace its principal, Tom Morris, who is returning to his role as Associate Principal at CHS.

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5 Ways to Spend Time in Your Backyard This Summer

After a long, dreary winter, it’s refreshing to spend time outside without having to wear a parka. Summer is the perfect time to get active with your friends and family—and you don’t have to go on a long trip to enjoy the weather. With these ways to spend time in your backyard this summer, spending time in the sunshine will be easy and fun.

Outdoor Movie Night

Get that old-fashioned drive-in movie experience without searching for the nearest theater. Set up a projection screen in the yard, bring out some blankets and camping chairs, and watch your favorite movie together as the sun sets.

Camping Out

Rough it in your yard for a night or two! Set up tents and blankets, and if you’ve got a fire pit, get a campfire going. Bring your best spooky stories and plenty of marshmallows for roasting. Spend time as a family under the stars.

Backyard Game Day

Think about your favorite games to play at a family cookout or barbecue. Croquet, ring toss, and cornhole are great—and low-stakes—ways to flex your competitive spirit. Elevate the game experience with professional cornhole gear or a high-end croquet set, and offer tantalizing prizes (Gift cards? Homemade treats?) to the winners.

Karaoke Party

If it’s been a while since your last try at karaoke, bring the music outside and have a laughter-filled time with family and friends. Making and listening to music together is a uniquely entertaining experience when enjoyed outdoors.

Play With Your Pets

Your four-legged friends love spending time outdoors just as much as you do! Let your pup loose in the yard and play a rousing game of fetch. Even cats can enjoy that direct sunshine from a secure area as they watch the critters outdoors. Keep an eye on your animal pals to prevent them from wandering off while enjoying their companionship on warm summer days.

Feel the sunshine on your face as you plan fun summer activities. There are plenty of memories you can make in your own yard! Let these ways to spend time in your backyard this summer inspire you to go above and beyond the classic cookout.

Backyard
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