Tag Archive for: Washougal

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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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Washougal School District Accepting Applications For Board Vacancy

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 kori.kelly@washougalsd.org. 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. 

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City of Washougal, Police Dept. Present National Night Out at Hathaway Park

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. 

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Washougal Students Advance to Special Olympics Unified All-Star Soccer Game

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.

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Camas, Washougal Issue Burn Ban Due to Regional Dry Conditions

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.

Click to access outdoorfire2024.pdf

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Washougal Songcraft Festival Makes Local History with 24-Artist Festival

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

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Three Washougal Schools Receive State Recognition for Outstanding Achievement

Washougal, WA — In June 2024, the Office of Superintendent of Public Instruction (OSPI) announced that three Washougal schools are being recognized for academic growth and closing opportunity gaps in the 2022-23 and 2021-22 school years. Canyon Creek Middle School, Columbia River Gorge Elementary School, and Washougal Learning Academy are recognized for the 2022-23 school year. Canyon Creek Middle School is also being honored for fostering student academic growth in the 2021-22 school year.

All three schools were recognized for academic growth. The Washington School Recognition Program measures growth based on outstanding year-to-year improvement in Smarter Balanced Assessment Consortium (SBAC) standardized test proficiency, graduation rates, attendance rates, and other student success measurements. Across all Washougal schools in 2022-23, Washougal School District saw year-to-year improvement in 70% of the subjects and grades tested in the SBAC.

Canyon Creek Middle School (CCMS) is one of just 104 schools recognized for both the 2022-23 and 2021-22 academic years. CCMS was honored for demonstrating substantial improvements for student groups most in need of support. 

In the 2022-23 school year, Washougal students outperformed the state average in 82% of the subjects and grades tested in the SBAC. CCMS outperformed the Washington State average in 2022-23 in all three subjects tested: 31.5% points in science, 16% points in English Language Arts, and 7.2% points in math.

“This recognition shows how dedicated our teachers, students, and community are to making academic progress and closing opportunity gaps. We’re determined to continue this positive trajectory into the new school year,” said Aaron Hansen, Interim Superintendent at Washougal School District for the 2024-25 school year.

Canyon Creek Middle School, Columbia River Gorge Elementary School, and Washougal Learning Academy will each receive a recognition banner to display in their buildings. 

OSPI has partnered with the State Board of Education (SBE) and Educational Opportunity Gap Oversight and Accountability Committee (EOGOAC) for years to identify and recognize schools for the Washington School Recognition Program. For the 2021-22 and 2022-23 school years, 571 public schools in 178 school districts across Washington state have earned this honor. Learn more about the Washington School Recognition Program and view a full list of schools receiving recognition on the SBE website.

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Washougal Police Department Announces Leadership Transition

Chief Wendi Steinbronn To Retire December 2024; Captain Zane Freschette Assumes Leadership Role in January 2025

After 31 years of dedicated service to the community as a law enforcement professional, including 5 years in Washougal, Chief Wendi Steinbronn has announced her retirement from the Washougal Police Department, effective December 31, 2024. Chief Steinbronn has been an integral part of the department’s growth and success, leaving a lasting legacy of commitment and professionalism.

“I have decided to retire after many fulfilling years in law enforcement. I have cherished my time here and will deeply miss our incredible team, and I am immensely proud of our achievements,” commented Chief Steinbronn.

In her tenure as chief, Steinbronn has overseen numerous initiatives aimed at enhancing public safety and community relations in Washougal. Specifically, these achievements include departmental accreditation, the successful implementation of body-worn camera and drone programs, establishing National Night Out as an annual event, and the recent strategic operational review that has charted the department’s path forward.

“We are grateful for Chief Steinbronn’s outstanding service and leadership throughout her tenure,” said City Manager David Scott. “Her contributions have made a significant impact on the safety and well-being of our community, and we wish her and her husband the best as they enter this new phase of life.”

Chief Steinbronn and her husband, a retired Portland Police officer, plan to embark on a new chapter as empty nesters. They are eagerly anticipating more time for travel, golf, and house projects.

Captain Zane Freschette to Take On Role of Chief

City Manager David Scott announced today that he is promoting Captain Zane Freschette to assume leadership upon Chief Steinbronn’s retirement.

“I am pleased to promote Captain Freschette. He is ready to assume the chief role, and I have every confidence that he will successfully lead the team at Washougal Police as they serve our community into the future,” said Scott. “He has strong support from City leadership and the entire police department.”

Captain Freschette brings nearly two decades of experience within the department, having excelled in roles such as detective, patrol sergeant, administrative sergeant and captain. His tenure has demonstrated exceptional leadership and a deep understanding of community policing. He also recently graduated as a member of the 289th session of the FBI National Academy. He is the first officer in department history to complete this prestigious program. Nationally, fewer than one percent of officers have the opportunity to attend the program.

In endorsing Captain Freschette to lead the department, Steinbronn emphasized, “Throughout my career, leadership development has been my passion, and I have prioritized succession planning from day one. I am delighted that Captain Freschette will be at the helm of the department. He is a remarkable leader with an unwavering commitment to our mission. I have learned as much from him as I hope he has learned from me, and I am forever grateful for the trust placed in me by the city and community to guide the Washougal Police Department toward a secure and vibrant future.”

Captain Freschette expressed his gratitude for the opportunity to lead the Washougal Police Department, saying “I am deeply honored to step into the role of Washougal’s next Chief of Police. I am eager to collaborate with Chief Steinbronn during our remaining time together and build upon her legacy as we move the department forward. Our team is exceptional, and it is a privilege to serve alongside them. I am enthusiastic about the opportunity to uphold safety and trust in Washougal, working closely with our community and the dedicated members of the Washougal Police Department.”

The transition from Chief Steinbronn to Chief Freschette will be smooth, ensuring consistent service and dedication to the people of Washougal. The department remains committed to public safety, community engagement, and maintaining professional excellence.

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City of Washougal Acts on PFAS Detection in Drinking Water

Washougal, WA — The City of Washougal has detected trace amounts of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in its drinking water supply. PFAS are a group of synthetic chemicals widely used in consumer products and industrial applications since the 1940s, known for their inability to breakdown easily in the environment. PFAS are often referred to as “forever chemicals.”

Between February and May 2024, routine testing conducted by the City identified PFAS levels slightly above the newly established Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) guidelines of 4 parts per trillion (ppt) at least one time, on at least one PFAS substance at each of the 6 city wellheads. Testing results can be found at https://cityofwashougal.us/PFAS. Despite being below the State Action Level (SAL) set by the Washington State Department of Health, these levels prompted public notification. 

On April 10, 2024, the EPA announced the final National Primary Drinking Water Regulation (NPDWR) for six PFAS. The new limit from the EPA for levels of PFAS in drinking water is set at 4 parts per trillion. For perspective, 1 part per trillion translates to 1 second in approximately 32,000 years or a single drop of water in 20 Olympic-sized swimming pools. The recommended limits are based on long-term exposure to PFAS throughout a person’s life and represent a conservative level at which no adverse impacts are expected over a lifetime of drinking the water, even in health-sensitive populations.

“The health and safety of our residents are our top priorities,” commented Public Works Director Trevor Evers. “Upon detecting these low levels of PFAS, we have taken immediate steps to ensure our drinking water remains safe and compliant with regulatory standards.”

The City of Washougal currently operates six wells across its service area and continues to thoroughly monitor water quality in accordance with federal and state requirements. The discovery of PFAS has prompted the City to act by investigating interim measures to safeguard the community’s water supply.

Work underway includes:

  • Testing the water supply: Operations staff continue to test and monitor water quality in compliance with state and federal requirements to ensure a safe water supply.
  • Evaluating treatment options: Water quality engineers are evaluating treatment technologies to remove PFAS from the water supply.
  • Finding long-term solutions: Expert scientists are investigating potential sources of PFAS and the extent of PFAS in the local groundwater supply.
  • Planning for the future: Future costs for PFAS treatment are included in the City’s long-range capital plans.

PFAS can accumulate in the environment and persist for extended periods. The new EPA regulations underscore the urgency of monitoring and managing these contaminants, with public water systems required to conduct initial monitoring by 2027 and implement corrective actions, if necessary, by 2029.

“We are committed to transparency and proactive communication with our residents,” said David Scott, City Manager. “Regular updates on PFAS testing results and our ongoing efforts to address this issue will be readily available to ensure our community remains informed.”

Residents are encouraged to visit the City’s website at cityofwashougal.us/PFAS for the latest information on PFAS testing, mitigation efforts, and educational material. Additionally, statewide PFAS testing results can be accessed through the Washington State Department of Health’s PFAS Dashboard at https://doh.wa.gov/data-and-statistical-reports/washington-tracking-network-wtn/pfas/dashboard. 

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