Southwest Washington Crowns 2026 Civics Bee Champion At Regional Competition (Photo) - 04/21/26

Press Release   
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE   
April 21, 2026

SOUTHWEST WASHINGTON CROWNS 2026 CIVICS BEE CHAMPION AT REGIONAL COMPETITION

Top students advance to state finals after showcasing civic knowledge, leadership, and solutions for real-world challenges

VANCOUVER, Wash.  — Eleven outstanding middle school students took the stage on Monday, April 20, competing for the title of Southwest Washington’s Civics Bee Champion during the regional competition hosted by the Greater Vancouver Chamber (GVC), in partnership with the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation and presenting sponsor OnPoint Community Credit Union.

Held at the historic Kiggins Theatre, the high-energy event featured finalists representing Battle Ground, Camas, Evergreen, and Vancouver school districts, along with homeschool programs. After a competitive and inspiring showcase, Calista Christiansen earned first place, taking home a $500 prize and the title of Southwest Washington Civics Bee Champion.

Modeled after traditional academic bees, the competition tested students’ knowledge across U.S. government, history, politics, and constitutional law. Audience members also joined in the excitement through a live, interactive trivia experience, creating an engaging and dynamic atmosphere.

Following two preliminary rounds of 10 questions each, the top five finalists advanced to a live interview segment. There, students presented their community improvement ideas and responded to questions from a distinguished panel of judges: Trang K. Lam, Executive Director, Port of Camas-Washougal; Ethan T. Perry, Executive Director, Port of Ridgefield; and Nelson Holmberg, Chair, GVC Government & Public Affairs Committee.

Students tackled pressing issues such as educational inequality, scams and fraud prevention, wildfire preparedness, healthcare access, and water pollution - demonstrating both critical thinking and a strong commitment to their communities.

Aaryana Kotwani placed second, earning a $250 prize, while Nirvan Kotwani took third place with a $125 award.

Thanks to Technology Sponsor Sigma Design, each finalist received a tablet to support both the live competition and their continued educational journey.

Next Stop: Statewide Competition in Olympia

The top three finalists will advance to the Washington State Civics Bee Finals, presented by the Association of Washington Business, on Saturday, June 20, 2026, at the Kenneth J. Minnaert Center at South Puget Sound Community College.

New this year, advancing students also bring opportunities back to their schools. If the local champion goes on to win at the state level, their school will receive a $5,000 donation.

State champions will earn a paid trip to Washington, D.C., to represent Washington at the National Civics Bee® Championship in Fall 2026.

Investing in Future Leaders

The National Civics Bee reflects the Greater Vancouver Chamber’s commitment to cultivating informed, engaged citizens who will help shape a stronger economy and community.

“By encouraging these middle schoolers, we’re investing in the future of our community,” said Janet Kenefsky, chief operating officer of the Chamber. “With a strong understanding of how our society works, they are better prepared to make a positive impact and help shape a brighter future.”

“At OnPoint we believe that investing in young people and elevating their voices, helps build stronger, more connected communities,” mentioned Amy Reeves, senior vice president/SW Washington regional manager at OnPoint Community Credit Union. “Supporting opportunities like the Civics Bee shows our future community leaders that their ideas matter and that we are all behind them”.

The 2026 National Civics Bee in Southwest Washington was presented by OnPoint Community Credit Union, with additional support from The Columbian, Greenhaven Landscapes, Desimone Consulting Group, Sigma Design, AAA Washington, the City of Battle Ground, and NW Natural.

For more information about the National Civics Bee, visit https://www.vancouverusa.com/civics-bee. Business leaders interested in sponsoring the 2027 event can contact the Chamber at Partnerships@VancouverUSA.com.

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About the National Civics Bee

The National Civics Bee is an annual competition that encourages young Americans to engage in civics and contribute to their communities. In the first round of the contest, local middle school students participate in an essay competition. Judges will then select 20 finalists to participate in our local competition: a live quiz event testing civics knowledge. The top three students from each local competition will advance to the state competition. According to the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation, this competition was launched to tackle the lack of knowledge about history and civics among middle school students, exposed by new federal data on the Nation's Report Card. In 2022, the average civics score at eighth grade decreased by 2 points compared to 2018. 

About the Greater Vancouver Chamber

SW Washington’s largest business organization, the Greater Vancouver Chamber (GVC), with nearly 1000 members, has been Moving Business Forward in southwest Washington for over 135 years through business advocacy, community building, education, and creating visibility for our members. The Chamber is a supportive alliance of diverse member businesses, individuals, and organizations, working together toward long-term business prosperity. The GVC is the heart of Clark County’s business community, advocating for sound, sensible and dynamic policies that ensure a vital economic climate and prosperity for all. For more information, please visit VancouverUSA.com.

About OnPoint Community Credit Union

OnPoint Community Credit Union is the largest credit union headquartered in Oregon, serving more than 645,000 members and with assets of $9.61 billion. Founded in 1932, OnPoint Community Credit Union’s membership is available to anyone who lives or works in one of 28 Oregon counties (Benton, Clackamas, Clatsop, Columbia, Coos, Crook, Curry, Deschutes, Douglas, Gilliam, Hood River, Jackson, Jefferson, Josephine, Klamath, Lane, Lincoln, Linn, Marion, Morrow, Multnomah, Polk, Sherman, Tillamook, Wasco, Washington, Wheeler and Yamhill) and four Washington counties (Cowlitz, Clark, Lewis and Skamania). OnPoint Community Credit Union is federally insured by the National Credit Union Administration (NCUA). More information is available at OnPointCU.com. 

Media Assets
https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1U1cCbsDWeV3OCgE7OYQ_frfoU5GRWKZB?usp=sharing

Lemonade Day Greater Vancouver Opens Registration For 2026 Program (Photo) - 04/14/26

Press Release   
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE   
April 14, 2026

LEMONADE DAY GREATER VANCOUVER OPENS REGISTRATION FOR 2026 PROGRAM

Youth entrepreneurship experience empowers Southwest Washington kids to launch their own businesses

VANCOUVER, Wash.  — Lemonade Day Greater Vancouver is now accepting registrations for its 2026 program, inviting young entrepreneurs ages 6–16 across Southwest Washington to learn how to start, own, and operate their own businesses. Hosted by the Greater Vancouver Chamber (GVC), this nationally recognized initiative provides a fun, hands-on introduction to entrepreneurship and financial literacy.

Since launching locally in 2020, Lemonade Day Greater Vancouver has engaged more than 3,500 youth, equipping them with essential business skills while fostering creativity, confidence, and leadership. Through the My Lemonade Day app and workbooks, participants are guided step-by-step as they develop business plans, set goals, manage budgets, and bring their ideas to life with the support of mentors.

The program culminates in Lemonade Day 2026 on Saturday, June 6, when young CEOs will launch their businesses at the 5th Junior Market, co-located with the Vancouver Farmers Market. To date, participants have collectively generated nearly $140,000 in net income, with proceeds supporting savings goals, reinvestment into their businesses, and charitable giving.

Returning as the Main Squeeze & Presenting Sponsor for the fourth consecutive year, OnPoint Community Credit Union continues to champion the program’s mission of inspiring the next generation of entrepreneurs.

“Today’s youth are the future leaders of our community, and it’s critical to support their financial education and their curiosity,” said Tim Clevenger, SVP/chief marketing officer at OnPoint Community Credit Union. “We’re proud to sponsor the Junior Market again this year and look forward to seeing the innovative ideas from all the vendors.”

“Lemonade Day is about giving kids the confidence to take an idea and turn it into something real,” said Janet Kenefsky, chief operating officer of the Greater Vancouver Chamber and city director of Lemonade Day Greater Vancouver. “Each year, we see incredible creativity, determination, and growth from these young entrepreneurs. Our goal is to once again reach thousands of participants, each building their own business and making a meaningful impact in our community.”

Lemonade Day is a community-wide effort, and there are many ways to get involved. Participants are encouraged to recruit mentors, investors, and business partners, while community members can support young entrepreneurs by volunteering or becoming customers on Lemonade Day.

To sign up or learn more about Lemonade Day Greater Vancouver and the Junior Market, visit: VancouverUSA.com/Lemonade-Day. For sponsorship opportunities, contact Partnerships@VancouverUSA.com.

Lemonade Day Greater Vancouver is supported by Main Squeeze Investor OnPoint Community Credit Union, with additional support from Burgerville, The Columbian, Colas Construction, When the Shoe Fits, Urban Air Vancouver, First Tech Federal Credit Union, City of Battle Ground, United Precision Corporation, HAPO Community Credit Union, Palm Beach Tan, Unitus Community Credit Union, Grassa, NOVOLEX, Waste Connections, Fort Vancouver Regional Libraries, and the Vancouver Farmers Market.

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About Lemonade Day Greater Vancouver

Since its inception in 2020, Lemonade Day Greater Vancouver has been rooted in entrepreneurial spirit. Engaging over 3,500 young minds across Southwest Washington, kids ages 6-16 have been learning the essential ABCs of business skills, fueling their creativity, and fostering their understanding of entrepreneurship. We take pride in the fact that 35% of our participants hail from diverse backgrounds, reflecting our commitment to inclusivity and community empowerment. Our initiative has made a SPLASH, generating a whopping $140,000 in net income, directly benefiting charities, and lining the pockets of these budding CEOs! We are more than just a program - we are making a difference one junior-business at a time. For additional details, please visit https://www.vancouverusa.com/lemonade-day.

About the Greater Vancouver Chamber

SW Washington’s largest business organization, the Greater Vancouver Chamber (GVC), with nearly 1000 members, has been Moving Business Forward in southwest Washington for over 135 years through business advocacy, community building, education, and creating visibility for our members. The Chamber is a supportive alliance of diverse member businesses, individuals, and organizations, working together toward long-term business prosperity. The GVC is the heart of Clark County’s business community, advocating for sound, sensible and dynamic policies that ensure a vital economic climate and prosperity for all. For more information, please visit VancouverUSA.com.

About OnPoint Community Credit Union

OnPoint Community Credit Union is the largest credit union headquartered in Oregon, serving more than 645,000 members and with assets of $9.61 billion. Founded in 1932, OnPoint Community Credit Union’s membership is available to anyone who lives or works in one of 28 Oregon counties (Benton, Clackamas, Clatsop, Columbia, Coos, Crook, Curry, Deschutes, Douglas, Gilliam, Hood River, Jackson, Jefferson, Josephine, Klamath, Lane, Lincoln, Linn, Marion, Morrow, Multnomah, Polk, Sherman, Tillamook, Wasco, Washington, Wheeler and Yamhill) and four Washington counties (Cowlitz, Clark, Lewis and Skamania). OnPoint Community Credit Union is federally insured by the National Credit Union Administration (NCUA). More information is available at OnPointCU.com.

Media Assets
https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1bfvMl64JTVPdj4aAzB-Rvz43eNv4KrF3?usp=sharing

Official Program Link
https://www.vancouverusa.com/lemonade-day

My Lemonade Day Participant App, iOs
https://apps.apple.com/us/app/my-lemonade-day/id1465714143

My Lemonade Day App, Android
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=org.lemonadeday.mylemonadeday&hl=en_US&gl=US

Lemonade Day Video | Presented by Main Squeeze OnPoint Community Credit Union
https://youtu.be/CPaUIF7Ub5A?si=YxmCwWqrq374laBP

MEDIA ADVISORY: 2026 National Civics Bee (Photo) - 04/06/26

EVENT PRESS RELEASE  
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE  
April 6, 2026

MEDIA ADVISORY: Civics Bee

WHAT: 2026 National Civics Bee- Southwest Washington Regional Competition

WHEN: Monday, April 20, 2026 

TIME: 5:00 PM – 7:00 PM  

WHERE: Kiggins Theatre (1011 Main St. Vancouver, WA 98660) 

OVERVIEW: 

The Greater Vancouver Chamber (GVC), in partnership with the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation and presenting sponsor OnPoint Community Credit Union, proudly hosts the 2026 National Civics Bee® – Southwest Washington Regional Competition. 

This high-energy, fast-paced competition brings together 20 outstanding middle school students from Battle Ground, Camas, Evergreen, and Vancouver school districts, along with homeschool programs. Each finalist earned their place by excelling in a competitive essay round and will now take the stage to test their knowledge of U.S. government, history, and civic engagement. 

Thanks to our Civics Bee Technology Sponsor, Sigma Design, each finalist will be gifted their very own tablet for use in the live quiz and to support their ongoing educational journey. 

Participants will compete for top honors and the opportunity to advance to the state-level competition, taking one step closer to the National Civics Bee® Championship. 

Judges include: 

• Trang K. Lam – Executive Director, Port of Camas-Washougal 
• Ethan T. Perry – Executive Director, Port of Ridgefield 
• Nelson Holmberg - Chair, GVC's Government and Public Affairs Committee

WHY THIS MATTERS:
At a time when civic engagement is more important than ever, the National Civics Bee® equips students with the knowledge and confidence to become informed, active participants in their communities. This event highlights the importance of civic education while showcasing the next generation of leaders in Southwest Washington. 

WHY COVER THIS EVENT:

• Visual, high-energy student competition in a historic theater setting  
• Inspiring stories of local youth leadership and academic achievement  
• Opportunity to interview students, judges, and community leaders  
• Strong ties to civic education and community engagement 

RSVP: To plan appropriately, please let us know if you will be able to attend as a media representative by emailing lsalmonte@vancouverusa.com.     

PROGRAM LINK: Civics Bee

MEDIA ASSETS: 
https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1at1LVQBboN2l22fBhIha14o-H6W4rfBq?usp=sharing 

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About the National Civics Bee

The National Civics Bee is an annual competition that encourages young Americans to engage in civics and contribute to their communities. In the first round of the contest, local middle school students participate in an essay competition. Judges will then select 20 finalists to participate in our local competition: a live quiz event testing civics knowledge. The top three students from each local competition will advance to the state competition. According to the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation, this competition was launched to tackle the lack of knowledge about history and civics among middle school students, exposed by new federal data on the Nation's Report Card. In 2022, the average civics score at eighth grade decreased by 2 points compared to 2018. 

About the Greater Vancouver Chamber

SW Washington’s largest business organization, the Greater Vancouver Chamber (GVC), with nearly 1000 members, has been Moving Business Forward in southwest Washington for more than 135 years through business advocacy, community building, education, and creating visibility for our members. The Chamber is a supportive alliance of diverse member businesses, individuals, and organizations, working together toward long-term business prosperity. The GVC is the heart of Clark County’s business community, advocating for sound, sensible and dynamic policies that ensure a vital economic climate and prosperity for all. For more information, please visit VancouverUSA.com. 

Greater Vancouver Chamber Announces Leadership Expansion In Membership Relations & Engagement (Photo) - 03/30/26

Press Release   
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE   
March 30, 2026

GREATER VANCOUVER CHAMBER ANNOUNCES LEADERSHIP EXPANSION IN MEMBERSHIP RELATIONS & ENGAGEMENT 
Jeana Fink promoted; James Oneil joins to support continued regional growth

VANCOUVER, Wash. – The Greater Vancouver Chamber (GVC) is proud to announce a strategic expansion of its Membership Relations & Engagement team with the promotion of Jeana Fink and the addition of James Oneil. Together, these leadership appointments reflect the Chamber’s continued investment in strengthening business connections and advancing regional engagement across Southwest Washington.

Since joining GVC in 2021, Fink has played a pivotal role in growing and diversifying the Chamber’s membership base. Her efforts have brought new and emerging industries into the organization while strengthening relationships with long-established businesses throughout the region.

In her expanded role as Membership Relations & Engagement Director, Fink will lead strategic initiatives to drive membership growth, deepen business relationships, and enhance engagement across Southwest Washington. Her leadership will be instrumental in elevating the Chamber’s visibility and impact while fostering meaningful connections within the business community.

“Jeana has consistently demonstrated a strong ability to connect with businesses, understand their needs, and deliver meaningful value,” said John McDonagh, President & CEO of the Greater Vancouver Chamber. “Her forward-thinking approach and commitment to our members make her exceptionally well-suited to lead this next phase of growth and engagement.”

Joining the Chamber this month, Oneil brings more than 25 years of experience in business development and community partnership leadership. A familiar and respected presence in the local business community, he has built a career focused on creating strategic relationships and driving organizational growth across corporate, nonprofit, healthcare, and education sectors.

In his role as Membership Relations & Engagement Director, Oneil will work alongside Fink to expand the Chamber’s reach, support member success, and strengthen partnerships that contribute to a thriving regional economy.

“James brings a wealth of experience and a deep understanding of relationship-building across multiple sectors,” added McDonagh. “His energy, insight, and strong community ties will further enhance our ability to serve and grow our membership.”

Together, Fink and Oneil will help lead the Chamber’s efforts to connect businesses, foster collaboration, and support long-term economic vitality throughout Southwest Washington.

To learn more about the Greater Vancouver Chamber team, visit: https://www.vancouverusa.com/gvc-team 

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About the Greater Vancouver Chamber

SW Washington’s largest business organization, the Greater Vancouver Chamber (GVC), with nearly 1000 members, has been Moving Business Forward in southwest Washington for over 130 years through business advocacy, community building, education, and creating visibility for our members. The Chamber is a supportive alliance of diverse member businesses, individuals, and organizations, working together toward long-term business prosperity. The GVC is the heart of Clark County’s business community, advocating for sound, sensible and dynamic policies that ensure a vital economic climate and prosperity for all. For more information, please visit VancouverUSA.com.

Media Assets: 
https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/13ioWX1TDdFF7SD34o_iHS8V7yNsqU79I?usp=sharing