Tag Archive for: Washougal

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.

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.” 

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.

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.”

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

Washougal, WA — The Washougal School District is accepting applications to fill a position on the Washougal School Board of Directors. The successful applicant serves Director District 2, succeeding Angela Hancock, who resigned June 12 from the board.

Applicants must be a registered voter and reside within District 2. This appointment will be in place through the November 2025 election. At that time, the appointed board member may file to run for the remainder of the unexpired term.

School Board members are responsible for policy and governance of the Washougal School District and for providing direction to the superintendent.

The application deadline is August 27, 2024. For more information about the position, residency requirements, and application process, please contact Kori Kelly, (360) 954-3014 or [email protected]. Interested applicants can apply online via the district website. Those who are not able to use an online application can request one from Kori Kelly. 

Director District 2 includes most areas of the Washougal School District north of the Washougal River. 

Washougal, WA — The City of Washougal and the Washougal Police Department are excited to invite the community to National Night Out on Tuesday, August 6, 2024, at Hathaway Park. The event will begin at 6:00 PM and promises an evening filled with fun, family-friendly activities. National Night Out is a nationwide event designed to foster positive relationships between law enforcement and communities.

Chief of Police Wendi Steinbronn said, “This event is a testament to the commitment of the Washougal Police Department to engage with our community in a positive and impactful way. We look forward to connecting with residents, enjoying some great activities, and working together to ensure a safer, more connected Washougal.”

This year, the festivities at Hathaway Park will include a variety of exciting activities, including:

  • Ice Cream Floats: Enjoy delicious ice cream floats served with a free souvenir cup.
  • Dunk Tank: Test your aim and take the opportunity to dunk a cop for a good cause. Donations of $5 will go towards providing bike helmets for Washougal kids.
  • Family-Friendly Games: Participate in a range of engaging lawn games suitable for all ages.
  • Outdoor Movie: At 8:30 pm, settle in for a special 3-D screening of the beloved animated film “Monsters, Inc.” with free popcorn.

The event is free and open to all members of the Washougal community. It’s a wonderful opportunity to enjoy a fun-filled evening while building connections with neighbors and local law enforcement.

Rose Jewell, Community Engagement Manager, highlighted the significance of the event in the context of the city’s broader goals by saying “National Night Out is a prime example of our increased investment in community engagement, as outlined in our strategic plan.” 

“By hosting events like this, we’re bringing our community together,” she continued. “We’re excited to offer a fun and meaningful experience that aligns with our ongoing efforts to support and enhance community connections.”

National Night Out is presented by Washougal Police Department and City of Washougal. This year’s event sponsors are McCord’s Vancouver Toyota, Renewal by Anderson, Edward Jones, IQ Credit Union, Washougal Police Officers Association, WSCCCE 307-W, CRESA 911, and Starbucks.

For more information about National Night Out and other community events, please visit https://cityofwashoual.us/NationalNightOut

Columbus, OH — Two Washougal High School students, Rilen Snethen and Boaz Brooks, represented the Seattle Sounders FC at the 2024 Special Olympics Unified Sports All-Star Game on Tuesday, July 23 at the Historic Crew Stadium in Columbus, Ohio. On July 24, the students will also be recognized on-field before the MLS All-Star Game presented by Target on July 24 at 8 pm Eastern Time.

The Sounders selected Rilen and Boaz from players around the state for this prestigious opportunity.

Overall, 52 Unified team members compete and represent 26 Major League Soccer (MLS) clubs at the event. The teams, composed of Special Olympics athletes and Unified partners, were outfitted in authentic uniforms provided by Adidas. MLS Greats served as celebrity coaches for the game.

At Washougal High School, Rilen and Boaz were invited to a school event to announce their selection. The two students, along with Unified Soccer Coach David Williams, were presented with jerseys from the Sounders at the event. Williams accompanied the pair to the event in Ohio this summer. 

The Unified Sports program in Washougal School District was founded in 2015. Unified Sports brings together students with and without disabilities to shape a more inclusive athletic environment for all student athletes. The program operates on core values of acceptance, community, and friendship. Washougal School District offers Unified soccer and basketball programs at Washougal High School. Learn more about Washougal School District at www.washougal.k12.wa.us.

Camas, WA — Due to dry conditions from lack of rainfall and the inherent fire danger with this condition, Camas-Washougal Fire Department’s Fire Chief Cliff Free and Fire Marshal Ron Schumacher have issued a recreational burn ban in the cities of Camas and Washougal.

All outdoor fires using wood fuel are prohibited. Barbecues or grills using charcoal or gas and gas fire pits are still allowed at this time.

This ban is effective immediately and will remain in effect until further notice.

Here are the definitions:
BAR-B-QUE: A cooking appliance that may be portable or permanent. Use conditions: Only clean and natural firewood, charcoal, pellets, wood chips, manufactured fire logs, LPG, and/or natural gas are permissible fuels.

BURN BARREL: A barrel or other container used to burn rubbish and other debris. ILLEGAL – NOT PERMITTED (Statewide Ban)

WEED BURNER: A gas fired torch used to burn weeds. ILLEGAL – NOT PERMITTED within the city limits of Camas and Washougal.

OPEN BURNING: The burning of vegetation from land clearing. ILLEGAL – NOT PERMITTED within the city limits of Camas and Washougal.

OUTDOOR FIREPLACE: An outdoor fireplace constructed of masonry or metal materials and
considered permanent in nature. Use conditions: Only clean natural firewood, charcoal, manufactured fire logs, LPG, and/or natural gas are permissible fuels. Fire shall be attended at all times.

PORTABLE FIRE DEVICES with OPEN FLAME: A non-combustible device such as a fire pit or fire bowl or chimney that contains the fire. Use conditions: Only clean natural firewood, charcoal, manufacture fire logs, LPG, and/or natural gas are permissible fuels. Fire Extinguisher with rating of 4-A or greater OR a charged hose with a nozzle attached is required to be readily available.

Below is a link that provides more details about what is banned and what isn’t.

Washougal, WA — The Washougal Songcraft Festival will present performances by 24 regional songwriters and three vocal-music composers in their second annual summer festival. Five concerts will be presented, on August 10, 15, 16, 17, and 18, 2024. The second annual songwriting festival expands to Marina Park and Reflection Plaza.

Washougal is a city in Clark County, Washington that is currently without any community performing arts space or dedicated concert venue. The town is rarely host to more than single-day music events. The number of artists and concerts being presented at this summer’s Washougal Songcraft Festival sets a local record as the largest musical event of its kind in the town’s history. All five concerts are free to the public and all-ages.

On Saturday August 10, Washougal Songcraft Festival again joins forces with the annual arts festival of Washougal Arts and Culture Alliance (WACA), downtown at Reflection Plaza. Six songwriters will perform between 10 am and 2:30 pm amid dozens of displays featuring the works of regional artists as well as other community groups. Featured songwriters will include Portland’s Doug Shafer and local favorite Brenna Larsen.

Marina Park at the Port of Camas-Washougal is the location of afternoon concerts on August 15 and 16. Overlooking the Columbia River, these concerts will run from 4 pm to 8 pm. Featured performers will include Tevis Hodge Jr., Raven Fables, Leo Moon, Glam Country, the Jack Maybe Project, and Chad Bault.

Saturday August 17 returns to Reflection Plaza for a downtown afternoon concert (3-7 pm) featuring six performers including Laska, Minda Lacy, and The Moonshine.

The festival will end Sunday Aug. 18 with a short recital of composed works for voice at the Washougal Community Center. A collaboration with Cult of Orpheus will present works by composers Lisa Neher, William Toutant, and C. A. Corbell.

Founded in 2023, Washougal Songcraft Festival is a Washington-based arts non-profit whose mission is to promote arts education, to foster, share, and celebrate the craft of songwriting, and to develop the performing arts and creative community of Washougal, Washington and the surrounding region. In addition to a summer festival the group presents monthly intimate song circles in Washougal from October through June.

Full festival details are below, and festival founders Stephanie and Christopher Corbell are happy to accomodate requests for interviews related to the festival, and to provide any other media you may need. They also shared these thoughts about the upcoming festival:

Festival Schedule and Performer Line-Up, with links

Line-up webpage: https://washougal-songcraft.org/wsf/2024-festival-line-up/

Saturday Aug. 10, 10 am – 2:30 pm, Reflection Plaza, Washougal

 – part of WACA Washougal Arts & Music Festival

• Jim Warford 

• Owen Kortz 

• Doug Shafer

• Sunny Pache 

• Brenna Larsen 

• Oh Brother

Facebook event: https://www.facebook.com/events/799131455651397

Thursday Aug. 15, 4 pm – 8 pm, Marina Park at the Port of Camas-Washougal

• Aram

• Tevis Hodge, Jr. 

• Raven Fables

• Leo Moon 

• Bex Beloved 

• Glam Country

Facebook event: https://www.facebook.com/events/1502675867274704

Friday Aug. 16, 4 pm – 8 pm, Marina Park at the Port of Camas-Washougal

• Ben Johnson

• James Cook

• The Jack Maybe Project

• Chad Bault

• Gina DeNoble

• Dumpster Joe

Facebook event: https://www.facebook.com/events/1591342894743521

Saturday Aug. 17, 3 pm – 7 pm, Reflection Plaza, Washougal

• Valdoria 

• Pythias Braswell

• Laska

• Quinton Parker

• Minda Lacy

• The Moonshine

Facebook event: https://www.facebook.com/events/393882943039589

Sunday Aug. 18, 2 pm Recital, Washougal Community Center

 – in conjunction with Cult of Orpheus

Composed vocal works by 

• Lisa Neher

• William Toutant

• C. A. Corbell

Performed by:

• Hannah Early, piano

• Dan Gibbs, baritone

• Sadie Gregg, mezzo-soprano

• Aaron Lange, tenor

• Jocelyn Claire Thomas, soprano

Facebook event: https://www.facebook.com/events/513233821031834