Mike Smith may be a world-famous artist, but his studio, crowded with different projects, thank-you notes, golf balls and a Specialized mountain bike suggest a man with a plethora of passions.And that's pretty much how he's lived his life. In fact, Smith never planned on becoming an artist. He considers himself lucky to have been in the right place at the right time on any number of occasions.
2012 was a year filled with changes and unforgettable moments, both nationally and locally. In Camas and Washougal, whether it was high school graduations, Challenge Day or mission trips in foreign countries, change was a constant. The Post-Record has decided to take a little time to reflect on the people and places that filled the paper's Hometown section, and has selected the top 12 most memorable stories. We hope you enjoy the look back.
In a seemingly nonstop, 24-7 world of technology, sometimes it is necessary to "unplug" and enjoy the little pleasures in life."Often I have, like many people, gotten so busy, so stressed, that it felt like I was chasing my tail," said artist Sue Clancy. "Remembering to savor a moment, to pay attention, to enjoy the little things is essential to mental and physical health. The ability to allow oneself to delight in things is an essential part of being happy."
At the age of 14, John Neumann is already an accomplished musician who plays four different instruments. The Skyridge Middle School eighth-grader has also begun composing music for different occasions. Recently, one of his pieces, "Semper Tubas," was played at a Metropolitan Youth Symphony winter concert at Tigard High School in Oregon. Neumann, tall and soft-spoken, has no fear of playing his tuba in front of large crowds, or acting as conductor for his compositions. When he is standing in front of the concert band, directing, he appears well beyond his years. "I rarely get nervous," he said. "I love all the instruments equally and just enjoy making music with them."
Pastor Richard Sales of Camas Church of the Nazarene will retire on Jan. 1 after more than 50 years of service in the ministry. Pastor Sales and his wife Joanne began their ministry in 1959, serving with the First Church of the Nazarene in Livingston, Mont. After a call to Oceanside, Calif., he later served as pastor in Midway City. He and his family moved to attend Bethany Nazarene College in Bethany, Okla., where he also served as pastor in Stigler, Okla. Following graduation, he was called to a church in San Bernadino, Calif. After serving with several churches in southern California and some time spent with a church in Las Vegas, the Sales' moved to Washington, where they have pastored for the past 25 years.
You've gotten most of the holiday shopping wrapped up, so to speak.But what to do with the stockings? Instead of frantically racing through a big box store on Christmas Eve, you can find a variety of inexpensive, fun, and non-sugary stocking stuffers for everyone on your list in Camas and Washougal. The Post-Record recently visited four local businesses, which had not been featured in a prior holiday gift giving story, to see what could be found for under $15. These businesses are just a small sampling of the many items to be found locally.
Anyone who thinks of ballerinas as dainty waifs has never met Annie and Hope Garcia.These young women are tall, strong and athletic to the core, spending several hours every week practicing ballet. They study and perform in the American ballet style, described as "intensively aerobic and athletic." It requires a combination of skill, attention to the minute details, athleticism and the ability to push through pain, all with a smile. "I've heard some people say that ballet looks easy," said Hope. "It looks easy because we make it look that way. You have to smile no matter how it feels."
Whether you're a working parent looking for childcare while school is out, or just want to keep your kids occupied during the upcoming winter break, there are a plethora of options available in the local area.Camas Parks and Recreation, Camas Community Education, Jack, Will and Rob Boys & Girls Club and Washougal Community Education & Recreation all offer camps geared for kids who want to cook, craft or work on their jump shot.
'Tis the season for family gatherings, parties, holiday movies and cookie exchanges. Unfortunately, it's also the season for weight gain.It is said that the average American gains 8 to 10 pounds between Thanksgiving and the New Year. These pounds tend to be "the gift that keeps on giving," and at best, can mean buying larger sized clothes and at worst, contribute to health issues such as high blood pressure, heart disease and obesity.
Cindy Ontkean had such a great time showing her decked-out house during the Holiday Home Tour four years ago, she's back for a second round. "It was such an enjoyable experience," she said. "People were so appreciative that we had opened our homes. I got some personal notes of thanks. The reason I did it was that my mom had just died, and she loved Christmas. I could feel her with me. That's why I'm doing it again."
