Milwaukee City Council honors exceptional students Niana Garcia and Fern Moore Dung

The City Council of Milwaukie, Oregon, celebrated the achievements of local students and welcomed new businesses during its regular session on March 18, 2025. The council recognized Niana Garcia and Vern Moore Dung from the Milwaukee Academy of the Arts for their outstanding academic and extracurricular accomplishments. Both students exemplified leadership and community engagement, with Vern notably reviving the school's speech and debate club after a 20-year hiatus.

Niana Garcia was commended for her dedication to civic engagement and her positive impact on the school community. Vern, who aspires to become a mechanical engineer, shared her passion for creating an inclusive environment and her plans to continue her education at either Oregon State University or Portland State University. The council expressed pride in the students' contributions, highlighting their potential to shape the future of the community.

In addition to honoring students, the council introduced two new businesses set to enhance the local economy. Liz Star announced her new venture, Cirxis, which will focus on upcycled products and sustainable practices. Located in Downtown Milwaukie, Cirxis aims to promote local artisans and environmentally friendly goods.

Rebecca Stavenjord and her husband Jeff Paramchuck also presented their upcoming record store, Beeline Records, which will feature a vintage marketplace and a performance space. The store aims to foster community connections through music and will host various events, including open mic nights and trivia contests.

These developments reflect Milwaukie's commitment to supporting its youth and fostering local entrepreneurship, promising a vibrant future for the community. The council's recognition of student achievements and the introduction of new businesses signal a proactive approach to enhancing the quality of life in Milwaukie.