It has been said "it takes a village to raise a child." This was recently exhibited at the grand opening and dedication services weekend at Columbia Adventist Academy. This event was tangible evidence of yet another miracle and a milestone in a continuing series of historic events in the 106-year-tradition of excellence at CAA.
The event highlighted a community pulling together for the welfare of its children. The weekend activities included the grand opening and ribbon-cutting ceremony on Friday, Aug. 21, followed by a faculty dedication service at the Meadow Glade Church on Sabbath, Aug. 22.
It was apparent at the grand opening something very special continues to take place at CAA in the form of a commitment to quality Christian education that benefits not only students but also the community, our town, and the surrounding region. Peggy Prahl, CAA board chair; John Gatchet, Oregon Conference vice-president; Max Torkelsen II, NPUC president; Bob Davidson, CAA alumni president; and Matthew Butte, CAA principal; welcomed attendees and thanked them for their commitment to Christian education and to CAA in particular. The keynote address was given by Michael Ciraulo, Battle Ground mayor, in which he quoted Matthew 5:14, "You are a light of the world — like a city on a hill." He continued, "To the Academy staff, students and Seventh-day Adventist community: We in Battle Ground have seen your light. We are inspired by it, blessed by it, and believe your light will enlighten our entire community."
He then shared thoughts about the positive influence this school and community have made over the past decades. He concluded by affirming that this new facility would enhance that influence.
The event was attended by more than 200 alumni and friends of CAA who enjoyed not only the presentations by honored guests but also the beautiful weather, music, ribbon-cutting, engraved bricks on the Welcome Walkway, tours of the school, and a reception. Many were able to personally thank key players in the completion of the new educational facility: past and present administrators and board members, members of the capital campaign, and the architect and contractors. Rachele McClain, CAA junior, said "I think I will be more focused on studying in this new building." With God providing this new facility and blessing the education that occurs inside our classrooms, the tradition of excellence in Christian education continues.
The former Columbia Adventist Academy administration building comes down with a little help from a bull-dozer on July 8, 2009, at 11 a.m. Taylor Ermshar, a current student, catches the demolition with his cell phone. (Taylor Ermshar)
