A crowning achievement

The first event being organized in anticipation of this year’s Camas Days festival is fit for kings and queens.

The crowning of the 2010 Camas Days Royal Court, an honor that recognizes local senior citizens for their community involvement, is set for Wednesday, July 14. This year’s honorees are Robert and Gail Hitchcock of Camas and Bernice Pluchos of Washougal.

Pluchos, a longtime resident, has been involved in a variety of activities ranging from helping to establish the Two Rivers Heritage Museum, the Two Rivers Historical Society and a reading program at Washougal High School to more recently being a founding member of Concerned Citizens In Action, a government accountability non-profit group. She has also been dedicated to the preservation of the Parkersville National Historic Site in Washougal.

In a nomination letter, she is described as a “very intelligent,” and “well-spoken,” woman, who has a sense of humor, is optimistic, and is a creative problem solver and innovator.

“[Pluchos] has lived in the Camas-Washougal area for 50 years, which are and have been filled with volunteer service in the community and volunteerism in youth, civic and church activities,” the letter states.

The Hitchcocks, who were both born and raised in Camas, have been heavily involved in local groups.

After marrying at Zion Lutheran Church in 1969, the couple left the area, but returned six years ago to be closer to family.

Some of the organizations that have benefitted from the Hitchcocks’ volunteer work include the Veterans of Foreign Wars, Camas-Washougal Soroptimists, and Friends of the Camas Community Center.

“Bob and Gail are willing to help on projects when asked,” reads the letter submitted to nominate the couple. “I really wonder how they have enough hours in the day to do all they do, and take care of their families.”

In a recent Post-Record article, Bob and Gail Hitchcock said they are excited about the upcoming festivities, including the coronation ceremony and Camas Days on July 23 and 24.

“People really look forward to Camas Days,” Gail said. “It’s a time when people see all of their old friends.”

“You’d be surprised how many people come back to Camas Days, even if they don’t live here any more,” Bob added. “It’s on their calendars, every year.”