Washougal, WA — The Washougal School District Board of Directors is seeking community input about the skills and professional experiences that would help them identify a candidate who can successfully lead the district and make progress toward our shared goals.
The board is committed to ensuring strong and effective leadership for our schools and community. “We would like parents, community members, teachers, and even our students to help us make this very important decision,” Board President Sadie McKenzie said.
Community members canshare feedback through an online survey, which is open through January 7, 2025, or by attending an in-person listening opportunity on December 17, 2024, from 5-7 pm at the Excelsior Building, 1401 39th Street, Washougal. Information about the in-person event and the link to the superintendent search survey are on the district website: https://www.washougal.k12.wa.us/superintendent-search-process/
The board will use the feedback to decide next steps in the search process, including consideration of Interim Superintendent Aaron Hansen as a candidate.
The board will share updates with the community through the district website and in messages to district families and staff.
https://cdn.lacamasmagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/14103724/Superintendent-.png316874lacamashttps://cdn.lacamasmagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/07074147/lacamas_white_2-300x300.pnglacamas2024-12-14 10:44:272024-12-14 10:44:36Washougal School Board Seeks Community Input for Superintendent Search
Camas-Washougal, WA – The Camas-Washougal Historical Society is inviting members and the community to take a closer look at the fascinating history of the Camas Mill. They are hosting a private access event at the Camas Mill Interpretive Center on Saturday, November 16 at 2 pm. The center opened around eight years ago and is located at 401 Adams Street, Camas.
Curator Ron Hawkins will host the presentation that includes a video featuring paper mill processes (as of six years ago) and an interview with local historian Virginia Warren. Attendees will also learn about the Koch family and Georgia-Pacific as well as enjoy interactive displays.
Hawkins, a Washougal High School graduate, moved to the area in 1969 and worked 43 years at the paper mill. The last 20 years he was the senior environmental air technician, as well as a team leader for the technical operations group. He retired five years ago.
“I caught the (history) fever years ago by listening to the old timers talk about their experiences,” said Hawkins. “I researched for about a year to get the exact day they broke ground. I try to make some of the exhibits more interactive, so the youth enjoy the museum as well. The mill was built six years before Washington became a state so there is a lot to talk about.”
Hawkins currently catalogs photos and documents and has collected over 1,000 issues of the original mill newsletters, “Making Paper,” which he hand-scanned at the Clark County Historical Museum.
The mill’s history dates back to 1883 when Henry Pittock, who owned The Oregonian weekly newspaper, formed a company called the Lacamas Colony Company. Under Pittock’s leadership, the business purchased 2,600 acres of land in and around what is now the town of Camas and began construction of a paper mill that would supply newsprint for the now daily Oregonian.
Crews began clearing land, building dams, and constructing a sawmill. During that same time, the town site of Lacamas was laid out and platted, and the town’s first store was opened for business. Camas was born!
At the November CWHS event, light refreshments provided by mill management will be served, and a short society business meeting will be held.
https://cdn.lacamasmagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/08154429/Camas-mill-1913-workers-next-to-paper-machine-source-TRHM.jpg320544lacamashttps://cdn.lacamasmagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/07074147/lacamas_white_2-300x300.pnglacamas2024-11-08 15:48:432024-11-08 15:48:50CW Historical Society Invites All to Camas Mill Interpretive Center
Washougal, WA — Washougal students earned a number of recognitions in several prestigious Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) Auxiliary competitions: the Illustrating America Art Contest and the Get Excited for the Red, White & Blue National Anthem Singing Contest. The awards reflect the efforts of Washougal students to beautifully share their understanding and appreciation of American values and democracy through performing and visual arts.
“Washougal students have so much talent as singers, writers, and artists. It’s inspiring to me to see our students using their talent to celebrate and honor those who have served our country and our democracy,” Interim Superintendent Aaron Hansen said.
VFW Auxiliary Historian/Media Relations chair Susan Bennett, who helped present the awards, said, “We are always so impressed by the art, singing, and essays that Camas and Washougal students submit. Members of the Auxiliary and VFW Post 4278 are excited to use these contests to encourage students to learn about our country and our democratic values. We encourage all students, including those who are not enrolled in art or music classes, to enter the contests.”
WHS Student Recognized Locally and at State Level for National Anthem Performance
Washougal High School student Catherine Yung earned first place in the Veterans of Foreign Wars Auxiliary Post 4278 “Get Excited for the Red, White & Blue National Anthem Singing Contest” for grades 9-12. Yung’s performance of the Star Spangled Banner was also submitted to the state Auxiliary to The Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United States competition, and won second place for Washington State.
VFW Post 4278 and Auxiliary members presented Yung with certificates from both the local and statewide competitions at Washougal High School, where they also shared her video submission. Yung received a cash prize from each organization as well.
Cape Horn-Skye Elementary Students Win Illustration Contest
Cape Horn-Skye student Taylor Mayer was awarded third place in the Illustrating America Art Contest by the VFW Auxiliary Post 4278 for grades 3-5.
Cape Horn-Skye student Emanuel Bolokhovskiy also created artwork for the Illustrating America Art Contest and was awarded third place by the VFW Auxiliary Post 4278, and was recognized by the state Auxiliary to The Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United States as well, for students in grades K-2.
Middle School Students Recognized
Jemtegaard Middle School student Adelaide Kessinger was awarded first place in the “Get Excited for the Red, White & Blue National Anthem Singing Contest” for grades K-8 at the local level.
Tia Linnik will be awarded first place for art she submitted to the Illustrating America Art Contest by the VFW Auxiliary Post 4278 for grades K-8 during the Columbia River Gorge Elementary Veterans Day assembly in November.
Skyla Ostenson was awarded 2nd place for art she submitted to the Illustrating America Art Contest by the VFW Auxiliary Post 4278 for grades K-8.
Skyla Ostenson accepting her award.Adelaide Kessinger accepts her award.
https://cdn.lacamasmagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/04145914/VFW-Yung-singing-award-10-2024-IMG_8934-scaled-e1730762579120.jpeg9232530lacamashttps://cdn.lacamasmagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/07074147/lacamas_white_2-300x300.pnglacamas2024-11-04 15:25:282024-11-04 15:25:38Washougal Student Award Winners Recognized by VFW Auxiliary
Washougal, WA — At their October 22, 2024 board meeting, the Washougal School District Board of Directors approved the purchase of a parcel of land to be used as a future school site. The property purchase will use $1,025,000 in funds, based on an appraisal, collected through impact fees on development in the community.
The parcel, located south of SE 20th Street near 340th Avenue, will not be immediately developed.
“Purchasing the land now allows the district secure a school site that may not be available when it will be needed in the future, when the population of Washougal is expected to be higher,” said Interim Superintendent Aaron Hansen.
Board President Sadie McKenzie said, “this is a beautiful part of the district, and securing the 31 acres of land now lets us be ready for future growth in the community. Board members have visited the site and concluded it will serve the district well in the future when we need it.”
Board member Jim Cooper stated that the land purchase shows that, “the board is looking out decades, not for what we need next year.”
Hansen noted that, “the current option agreement expires at the end of December, so it is time for the district to make this purchase. Purchasing the land at this time lets the district use the impact fee resources that are available now and restricted only for this type of use. This will allow the district to purchase the property while it is available and before the cost of the land goes up even further, which we have seen happen with other property.”
The land acquisition is planned for in the district’s current long range Capital Facilities Plan, but there is no plan to develop a school on this site during the current 6-year plan period. Development of the site will be addressed in future plans.
https://cdn.lacamasmagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/24144746/WSD-Property.png30244032lacamashttps://cdn.lacamasmagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/07074147/lacamas_white_2-300x300.pnglacamas2024-10-24 17:30:172024-10-24 17:30:31Washougal School Board Approves Purchase of Land For Future School Site
Those of us who work, live and serve in the community know David Stuebe, his results, and his love of service. David puts community first—always has, and always will. He will fight for our community. His opponent, on the other hand, is fighting for a position—not community. She has no other proven track record other than delivering previous losses and divisive rhetoric. David puts people over politics. Please vote David Stuebe for Washington’s Legislative District 17, Position 2.
Note: This a personal endorsement, not a reflection of the City of Camas.
https://cdn.lacamasmagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/24112934/stuebe-pic-scaled-e1729794795788.jpg11092560lacamashttps://cdn.lacamasmagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/07074147/lacamas_white_2-300x300.pnglacamas2024-10-24 11:48:092024-10-24 11:57:20Camas City Council Member Lewallen Supports Stuebe for State House
Continuing their 78 years of support to the community, the Camas-Washougal Community Chest is soliciting 2025 grant applications from non-profit 501 (c) (3) organizations serving the Camas and Washougal area. Grant applications must be received or postmarked no later than December 15, 2024. Grant awards will be announced in March 2025. Initial payments will be made at the time of the award.
Larger grants will be funded in 2 to 4 installments, with final payments made in November 2025.
On October 1, 2024, the CWCC launched its Campaign 25 and hopes to raise at least $126,000 to fund grants during 2025. The Camas Washougal Rotary Foundation, in partnership with CWCC, is considering funding additional grants.
The Camas Lions Foundation has committed to fund at least $1,000 toward 2025 grants. The Camas-Washougal Community Chest has supported local non-profit organizations since 1946. The Community Chest relies on contributions from individuals and businesses and makes productive use of those funds by being a 100% volunteer organization. This means that more than 97% of the donated funds goes directly back to our community. CWCC urges Camas and Washougal residents and businesses to donate now to help fund 2025 grants. Donation information is available at: http://www.CamasWashougalCommunityChest.org.
In addition to being a 501 (c) (3) non-profit organization, grant applicants must demonstrate that their project or program benefits residents of Camas and Washougal and meets one or more of the following needs:
Education
Youth activities
Aid to people with special needs
Natural resource conservation
Health and welfare programs
Crisis and emergency services
Other similar charitable or civic objectives
Grant applications and detailed instructions for applying are available on-line at the website listed above. For further information please contact Camas-Washougal Community Chest Board President Dave Pinkernell at info@CamasWashougalCommunityChest.org.
During 2024, CWCC, the Camas Washougal Rotary Foundation and the Camas Lions Foundation awarded 34 grants totaling $134,000 and delivering an estimated 40,000 individual services to local people. The 2024grantees included such diverse non-profit organizations as the Inter-Faith Treasure House, Akin (East County Family Resource Center in Washougal), Family Promise of Clark County, Washougal Songcraft Festival, JD Currie Youth Camp, and Janus Youth Programs. Projects and programs included such diverse activities as emergency rent and utility assistance, purchase of food and service supplies for local emergency food programs, helping homeless families find permanent shelter, restore a youth camp’s outhouse, sampling water quality in Lacamas, Round and Fallen Leaf lakes, and help to support at risk 9- to 17-year-old runaway children.
https://cdn.lacamasmagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/23140736/Pitching-In-For-A-Cause-March-2024-4-rotated-e1729722089866.jpg7331600lacamashttps://cdn.lacamasmagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/07074147/lacamas_white_2-300x300.pnglacamas2024-10-23 15:22:192024-10-23 15:22:27Camas-Washougal Community Chest Solicits 2025 Grant Applications
Washougal Studio Artists proudly presents their 4th Annual Holiday Art Market Tour, Saturday and Sunday, November 16th and 17th, 10 am-4 pm.
This is your opportunity to visit 13 artists’ studios and enjoy the work of 25 talented local artists. Come learn what inspires the artists and learn how they have developed their processes. Ask questions and experience the creative studio environment where art is being made. The Washougal Studio Artists Tour is a biannual event that draws visitors from all over the region, and we are excited to share it with you. Explore an amazing array of works in fused glass, textiles, bronze sculpture, painting, jewelry, mixed media, collage, ceramics and photography.
Participating artists include the following:
Studio #1: Trish Johnson (studio owner), watercolors; Keith Russell, painting and drawing.
Studio #2: Sandy Moore (studio owner), mixed media fabric collage and home decor; Sharon Buckmaster, mixed media wearable art; Jeanine Clark, painting, drawing, wearables.
Studio #3: Tamara Dinius (studio owner), mixed media; Phyllis Carter, fused glass; Toni McCarthy, beaded and metal jewelry.
Studio #4: Liz Nye, mixed media, photography, textiles.
Studio #5: Regina Westmoreland, mixed media.
Studio #6: Debbie Nagano, mixed media.
Studio #7: Judi Clark, painting, drawing.
Studio #8: Ellen Nordgren, mixed media.
Studio #9: Shirley Bishop (studio owner), fused glass & home décor; Kathy Marty; hand-woven rugs and home décor; Marina Pearson, acrylic painting and drawing; John Relyea, woodworking.
Studio #10: /Susan Fronckowiak (studio owner), painting, photography; Anna Norris, painting, ceramics; Blythe Ayne, photography.
Studio#11: LesleyAnne Ezelle (studio owner), ceramics and alpaca fiber;
Studio #12: David Van Zandt (studio owner) bronze sculpture & acrylic painting; Charlene Hale, glass.
Studio #13: Mica Wilson (studio owner), painting, drawing; Elaine Lim, painting, drawing.
The Washougal Studio Artists Tour is a wonderful way to spend the day. There is a great joy in experiencing art firsthand, buying local and giving your special friends and loved ones original pieces of art. Here is your chance to meet the makers, to
learn about their processes, and to find truly special holiday or birthday gifts. Or maybe you’ll be inspired to sign up for a class.
Many of these artists also offer classes from their studios. For further information: Shirley Bishop 360-991-3081 —
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Community members are invited to help shape Washougal’s future by joining the advisory committee, completing a survey, and attending upcoming events.
The City of Washougal is excited to announce the launch of the Washougal Onward Comprehensive Plan Update, an 15-month initiative to guide the city’s growth and development through 2045. Known for its charm, beautiful natural surroundings, and strong sense of community, Washougal is preparing for a future that preserves these qualities while ensuring sustainable growth.
As a gateway to outdoor activities like hiking and kayaking, Washougal offers residents a unique blend of peaceful living with easy access to urban amenities. The comprehensive plan update will focus on maintaining this balance, addressing land use, middle housing development, and infrastructure needs.
Specific emphasis will be placed on housing requirements, environmental sustainability, and the integration of climate-related policies to preserve the natural beauty and outdoor lifestyle that residents enjoy. The City’s capital facilities plan will also be updated to support key services such as stormwater management, water and sewer systems, transportation, parks, and recreation.
To ensure the plan reflects the needs and priorities of Washougal’s residents, the City is launching a robust community engagement effort. Residents, business owners, and people who are interested are invited to participate in shaping Washougal’s future through several avenues:
Join the Washougal Onward Community Advisory Committee (CAC) The City is seeking approximately 16–20 members for the Community Advisory Committee, which will provide valuable feedback on new regulations and policies shaping Washougal’s growth. The CAC will serve as ambassadors for the community, offering diverse perspectives and representing key community groups. Interested residents, business owners, and stakeholders are encouraged to apply by submitting an interest form.
Complete the Community Survey Every voice matters in shaping Washougal’s future! The City is asking residents to complete thecommunity survey and share their input. Survey responses will help guide decisions in the planning process.
Attend Upcoming Community Events The City will host several community events throughout the update process, where residents can learn more about the Comprehensive Plan, ask questions, and provide feedback. The first event, the Comprehensive Plan Carnival will take place on Nov. 16, 2024 at the Port of Camas-Washougal. Residents can stay updated on event dates by visiting the CommunityEvent Calendar.
The Washougal Onward Comprehensive Plan Update will impact many facets of daily life in Washougal. Public input is needed to ensure the updated plan reflects the diverse needs of the community and aligns with long-term goals.
“Washougal residents have a unique opportunity to plan for the growth of our community, and it’s important that all voices are represented throughout this process,” said Mitch Kneipp, Community Development Director. “We encourage all residents to get involved and share their vision for Washougal.”
Washougal, WA — The Camas-Washougal Chamber of Commerce joins Washougal merchants and the City of Washougal to roll out “Trick or Treat On Main Street” event on October 31st.
The Chamber of Commerce is proud to partner with local merchants and the City of Washougal to present Washougal Trick or Treat on Main Street. This is a free event for the whole family on Halloween, Thursday, October 31st. Families are invited to park free at Pendleton Outlet at 2 Pendleton Way, Washougal, WA. Downtown merchants will be handing out free Halloween candy to costumed children from 4-6 pm. Those attending will pick up their official merchant passport at the Chamber’s tent inside Reflection Plaza at the corner of Pendleton Way and Main Street in downtown Washougal. The passport will identify participating Trick or Treat merchants.
At the end of the event, participants are encouraged to turn in their completed Halloween Passport to the Chamber’s Tent inside Reflection Plaza. Those returning their passports will receive a Halloween treat bag and be entered to win special prize.
This is a rain or shine event! The Camas-Washougal Chamber of Commerce is honored to partner with the following local merchants who have stepped up to contribute to the success of this event: Riverview Bank, Trap Door, RedDoor Gallery, The Realm Roasters, Cascadia NW Real Estate, Schmer Real Estate Team, Puffin Cafe, WHY Racing Events, Octopi Ink, Natalia’s Cafe, Fort Vancouver Regional Library, Fraternity of Eagles, School of Rock, Edward Jones, Washougal Business Association, Washougal Sport & Spine, City of Washougal and it’s Hotel/Motel Tax Fund, the Moose Lodge, Washougal Hardware, Anytime Fitness, AKIN, Washougal Barber Shop, Danglicious, Lions Club St. Mathew Lutheran Church and Pendleton Outlet.
For more information, contact Jennifer Senescu, Executive Director of Camas-Washougal Chamber of Commerce at 360-834-2472, info@cwchamber.com.
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Camas, WA — With the goal of raising $126,000 for their 2025 grants, the Camas-Washougal Community Chest has begun their annual fundraising drive. The non-profit group is continuing their partnership with the Camas–Washougal Rotary Foundation and the Camas Lions Foundation to provide additional grant funds. The combined monies are to fund grants to local non-profit organizations that serve Camas and Washougal residents in need; at-risk youth programs, address natural resource conservation, foster education, and enhance diversity, equity and inclusivity.
The Camas-Washougal Community Chest 2024 Grant Highlights:
CWCC, CWRF and CLC joint 2024 campaign raised $134,000 and distributed 34 grants including:
Inter-Faith Treasure House, a local food bank
AKIN (formerly Children’s Home Society of WA), family support programs
Family Promise, help needy families keep their home or find a new one
Lower Columbia Estuary Partnership, habitat improvements
IMPACT, funding grocery gift cards for distribution to low-income families
Washougal’s Songcraft Festival, provide funding to participating artists
Watershed Alliance of SW WA, three Cottonwood beach cleanups funded
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