Tag Archive for: Washougal

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Washougal Studio Artists to Host Holiday Art Market Tour Nov. 16

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 —

– https://www.washougalstudioartists.org/

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Washougal Begins 2045 Comprehensive Plan Update, Seeks Public Input

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:

  1. 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.
  2. Complete the Community Survey
    Every voice matters in shaping Washougal’s future! The City is asking residents to complete the community survey and share their input. Survey responses will help guide decisions in the planning process.
  3. 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 Community Event 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.”

For more information about the Washougal Onward Comprehensive Plan Update and how to participate, visit the Comprehensive Plan website or [email protected].

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CW Chamber Joins Washougal to Host Trick or Treat on Main Street

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, [email protected].

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Camas-Washougal Community Chest Begins 2025 Fundraising Campaign

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

2024 FUNDRAISING MAJOR DONORS:

  • Georgia Pacific employees
  • Georgia Pacific Foundation
  • HP employees
  • HP Corporation
  • Camas & Washougal School District employees
  • City of Camas & Washougal employees
  • Port of Camas-Washougal employees
  • Watercare Industrial Services
  • Columbia Rock Products (Sauer Holdings LLC)
  • Windermere Foundation,
  • Tidland Christian Development Fund
  • Hinds Charitable Fund
  • Many other individuals and businesses

For more details, visit: camaswashougalcommunitychest.org

APPLICATIONS FOR GRANT FUNDING:

  • Must be a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization
  • Must provide services in Camas and/or Washougal
  • Provide service in one or more of the following areas:
    • education, youth activities
    • aid to people with special needs
    • natural resource conservation
    • health and welfare programs
    • crisis and emergency services
    • diversity, equity and inclusivity
  • Fill out the 2025 application form on CWCC’s website after October 15, 2024
  • 2025 grant applications due December 15, 2024
  • Applicants notified in March 2025 regarding level of grant funding, if any
  • Quarterly Grant payments begin in March 2025

Mailing Address

PO Box 960, Camas, WA 98607

[email protected]

CamasWashougalCommunityChest.org

facebook.com/camaswashougalcommunitychest/

Community Chest
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CGRE Students Explore Steigerwald Lake National Wildlife Refuge

Just a mile from their school, students saw snakes, river otters, deer, waterfowl, and insects as part of a field trip to the Steigerwald Lake National Wildlife Refuge. Columbia River Gorge Elementary School (CRGE) fifth graders took part in a series of learning activities that involved cataloging wildlife and native plants, removing invasive species like blackberries, and learning from educators from the Lower Columbia Estuary Partnership based out of Portland, OR.

The field trip, which took place on September 20, 2024, was funded through a grant written in partnership with the Estuary Partnership, which promotes student learning centered around local ecosystems and helping students understand their impact on the web of life in the natural environment. Teachers Marie Klemmer and Jennifer Perry connect the field trip with science standards students study in fifth grade. Students use the data collected during the field trip as part of lessons that build upon their experience and help them apply these lessons to future learning.

“The educators from the Estuary Partnership do fantastic work in helping the students see real-world application of what they’re learning in the science classroom,” Kimmer said. “The high level of engagement and excitement of the students interacting with the natural areas surrounding our community is an invaluable learning experience.”

During the field trip, students participated in natural area stewardship by removing the Himalayan blackberry that was crowding out native plants along the Gibbons Creek Wildlife Art Trail at the refuge, put the knowledge acquired during an earlier classroom lesson with the Estuary Partnership into action by identifying different bird species the refuge and engaged in a creative multi-sensory exploration of nature using watercolors.

“Thanks to the Outdoor Learning Grant from the Washington Office of the Superintendent of Public Instruction and State Recreation and Conservation Office, we have a fantastic opportunity to enhance students’ knowledge and confidence in the outdoors through stewardship, exploration, and observation” said Sam Dumont, Environmental Educator with the Estuary Partnership. “As an educator, it’s incredibly rewarding to witness the curiosity, sense of empowerment, and collaboration that develop as we progress through our six-part on-campus lesson series and three-part outdoor field experiences.”

Perry said, “The hands-on experiences provided by the Estuary Partnership educators, both in the classroom and in the field, are critical to fostering curiosity and enjoyment of the natural areas around us. Young students who are excited about nature grow into adults who care about the natural world around them.”

CRGE Principal Hannah Hartman said, “The excitement in our students coming back from their field trip was remarkable. We deeply appreciate these grants and working with the Estuary Partnership that provide such a valuable learning opportunity for our students. We are so fortunate to live in Washougal and for our students to be so close to amazing natural resources.”

The grant will also allow students to visit Ridgefield Wildlife Refuge for a canoeing trip, collect and analyze water samples from nearby Gibbons Creek, and have an opportunity to dissect trout. The grant provides lessons from tribal native educators, which will focus on traditional food that was gathered by native peoples and the importance of stewardship of local ecosystems.

The Washington State Legislature funded the Outdoor Learning Grants program, administered by the Washington Office of the Superintendent of Public Instruction, with the goal to develop and support outdoor educational experiences for students in Washington public schools. The Washington Recreation and Conservation Office manages this portion of the fund that is available for organizations that partner with public schools. This two-year funded Outdoor Learning project provides three outdoor field experiences as well as six on-campus lessons taught by Estuary Partnership educators and local native educators. CRGE is one of six schools in Clark County to participate in this program that will serve over 900 students.

CGRE
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City of Washougal Launches HOA and Neighborhood Registry

Washougal, WA — The City of Washougal is excited to announce the launch of its Homeowners Association (HOA) and Neighborhood Registry, aimed at fostering stronger community connections and enhancing local communication. Washougal is comprised of roughly 200 neighborhoods with their own unique character and appeal.

The registry allows HOAs and neighborhood associations to officially register with the city, providing a centralized resource for residents to access information about community organizations. Residents are encouraged to register their associations online to stay informed about city programs, initiatives, and opportunities for collaboration. The city is committed to supporting neighborhoods and strengthening community ties through this new initiative.

“Woven together to create a distinct tapestry, each neighborhood brings its own beauty, its own charm, and identity to the overarching community,” said Sherry Montgomery, Community Aesthetics Program Coordinator. “This registry is a fantastic opportunity for neighborhoods to connect and collaborate. We believe that by working together, we can enhance the beauty and spirit of our community.”

For more information and to fill out the registration form, please visit https://cityofwashougal.us/789/HOA-Neighborhood-Registry.

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Washougal SD Welcomes Jane Long as Newest School Board Member

Washougal School District’s newest school board member, Jane Long, was sworn into service at the September 10, 2024 board work session.  WSD Interim Superintendent Aaron Hansen administered the oath of office. 

Long was selected to represent Director District #2 through the end of 2025 when she may run for election to a four-year term if she chooses.

“I’m excited to be part of the board and to serve the community,” said Long. “Washougal has amazing teachers and excellent schools, and I want to use this position to continue to make sure our teachers and schools help every student succeed.”

Long has served as a class volunteer, ReadNW mentor, and been an active member of the boosters at the school her children attend. She has also served as a volunteer with local organizations serving youth. She brings professional experience working in human resources and budgeting.  

“We are excited to welcome Jane to the WSD Board of Directors,” said Hansen. “Her perspective as a current parent and volunteer with experience in our schools will be an incredible asset in serving the community as part of our school board.” 

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Washougal Seeks High School Students for City Council Representative Role

Washougal, WA — The City of Washougal is excited to announce an outstanding opportunity for Washougal High School juniors and seniors to make their voices heard and have a direct impact on their community. The city council is accepting applications for the position of Student Representative.

The Student Representative and one alternate will have the unique chance to attend City Council meetings, participate in discussions on important community matters, and bring forward the views and concerns of Washougal’s youth. High school students will gain firsthand experience in local government and civic engagement. The Student Representative will serve in an advisory capacity and will not have voting rights on matters before the City Council. They will serve a one-year term to begin in October 2024 with the possibility of an extended year for juniors.

“This is a fantastic way for students to gain valuable experience, develop leadership skills, and make a meaningful impact on their community,” said Washougal Mayor David Stuebe. “We encourage all interested juniors and seniors to apply and seize this chance to become part of Washougal’s future.”

Key Responsibilities

  • Attend and participate in City Council workshops and meetings twice a month.
  • Provide insights and feedback on issues affecting young people in Washougal.
  • Collaborate with other council members to develop and support initiatives that benefit the community.
  • Serve as a liaison between Washougal High School students and the City Council.
  • Observe how city government functions.
  • Alternates are expected to attend at least one workshop and meeting per month as an audience member and fill in for the student representative in their absence.

Eligibility Requirements

  • Must be a junior or senior within the boundary of the Washougal High School or Washougal city limits for the 2024-2025 academic year.
  • Demonstrate strong communication and leadership skills.
  • The alternate must be a junior or senior.
  • Meets general academic eligibility requirements as prescribed by the District.
  • Commit to attending regular City Council meetings and additional events as needed.

Application Process

Interested students are encouraged to submit applications to include:

  • A completed online application form available at https://cityofwashougal.us/StudentRep.
  • A one-page cover letter outlining interest in the Student Representative position and how they plan to contribute to the City Council. If the student is involved in community and extracurricular activities, they should explain their involvement in the cover letter.  
  • A resume of no more than two pages.

Important Dates

  • Application Deadline: Submit online by Thursday, September 18, 2024
  • Interviews: September 26, 2024; by appointment beginning at 3 pm. Interview questions are posted at http://cityofwashoual.us/StudentRep.
  • Oath of Office: October 14, 2024, at the 7 pm council meeting

For more information, please visit http://cityofwashoual.us/StudentRep.

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Bringing Rural Communities Up to Speed: Port of CW Partners With NocTel

Washougal, WA — In alignment with its slogan “It is our nature to thrive” the Port of Camas Washougal has partnered with its tenant NocTel to bring the best, fastest local Internet service to its tenants within the Port District. The Port is well known for being committed to helping tenants thrive through support and advocacy locally and beyond.

Port Executive Director, David Ripp said “Partnering with Cory Schruth of NocTel on this project is a clear choice for us, their goals and values in the community completely align with ours. They have proven they are a tenant that is committed to bringing a true quality service to Port tenants and local residents, which is the best and most reliable service to this area. This is why the Port exists, to continue to support companies like NocTel.”

NocTel has been around since 2011 and during Covid the demand for rural areas in SW Washington to have the opportunity for high speed Internet service became glaringly apparent, so they jumped at the chance to provide a solution. NocTel Fiber provides fast broadband to neighborhoods that do not currently have options for fast Internet access. As a local resident, Cory understood how frustrating using slow Internet can be. Parents, those working remotely, and students alike now had access to Internet service they didn’t know was an option for them at the time.

Abysmal, hopeless and slow were some of the words used to describe rural SW Washington Internet services, they reached out to many well-known entities, but no help came. Cory realized it was time to take charge and build a network. This is how NocTel Fiber was born. He determined fiber optic cable was the fastest and most reliable solution for rural areas. Now, NocTel Fiber has miles of cable in rural areas in SW Washington, with many future plans to expand their network.

Cory Schruth, Founder of NocTel Fiber said “We bring Fiber to the Forgotten. We don’t think anyone should not have the same opportunity as anyone who lives in a city, metropolitan area to have the same connection to the world. We are thrilled to work with the Port of Camas/Washougal to provide their tenants with exactly what they deserve, reliable, fast Internet service through fiber.”

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Washougal High School Earns 2024 Jostens Gold Tier School of Distinction Award

Earlier this month, Washougal High School (WHS) student leaders were recognized with the 2024 Jostens Gold Tier School of Distinction Award for their work to improve school climate and culture. Riley Vaughan, Jude Maddox, Gavin Johnson, Mackenzie Olkowski, and WHS teachers Kyla Ritchey and Tami Grant accepted the award at the Jostens Renaissance Global Conference in Orlando, Florida on July 18, 2024.

The Jostens Renaissance School of Distinction Award celebrates schools excelling in fostering a supportive and engaging school environment. Schools can apply for one of three levels of distinction: silver, gold, or platinum. Schools must meet specific criteria to qualify for the Gold Tier level, including implementing the Renaissance Program framework for building a positive school culture.

“Positive school culture brings better attendance, higher test scores, and overall makes school a place where you want to be rather than where you have to be,” said Maddox, 12th grade student leader at Washougal High School. “We’re a school that recognizes you for doing the things you should do and rewards you for going above and beyond. I think that encourages people to do what they’re supposed to do.”

For the first time this year, student leaders at the high school organized a Renaissance Rally to recognize students for academic and extracurricular achievements. Student leaders measured the success of their efforts to improve school culture by using data from the Washington Office of Superintendent of Public Instruction (OSPI) report card and interviewing students and staff. 

“We worked on planning the Renaissance Rally for a good two months,” said Vaughan, 12th grade WHS student. “We plan on doing that a lot more this next school year and I think kids are ready for it.” 

The leadership class also organizes the annual Stuff the Bus community fundraiser and a handful of other initiatives to promote a sense of belonging at school. “Stuff the Bus is when everyone comes together as a family to help out our community and brings us all closer,” said Olkowski, 11th grade student at Washougal High School.

Student leaders also have a voice in making decisions that impact school culture by participating in monthly Student Voice Council meetings with Washougal High School Principal Mark Castle. Student leaders also serve as representatives to the Washougal School Board to weigh in on districtwide decisions.

“Since 2020, our student leadership group has been implementing Renaissance program ideas to improve climate and culture at our school. This was our first year to apply for the award, and we’re all very excited that we’re being recognized as a Gold Tier school,” said Ritchey, Associated Student Body teacher at WHS.

In winter 2023, Washougal High School was also one of three schools to win the nationwide Jostens Culture Challenge for leading an initiative to express appreciation for Washougal school bus drivers. The group of students gave cups of hot chocolate, with motivational messages written on them, to bus drivers at the school.

Learn more about Washougal School District at www.washougal.k12.wa.us

Washougal
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