Behind the Canvas
Step inside the studios of local artists
By Angie Helvey, Contributing Writer
Have you ever looked at a piece of art and wondered what the artist thought as they created it? Most times, exhibitions take place in showrooms or galleries without the artist present, but the Clark County Open Studios Tour creates an entirely new experience that invites inquisitive visitors right into the artist’s studio.
Open Studios is a cornerstone program of Artstra, a nonprofit focused on elevating the arts in Clark County. While it highlights local artists, its mission goes further by bringing art directly into our neighborhoods. “Artstra is dedicated to art accessibility, with all our programs and partnerships designed to give back to the community,” explains Jennifer Williams, a board member of Artstra and the organizer of the Open Studios Tour.
Free to the public as a self-guided tour, the event is scheduled for Nov. 2 and 3, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and will showcase various art and mediums and a diverse mix of juried participants. There are 53 total artists, ten participating for the first time and three emerging artists attending and participating through the Christine Rice Memorial Scholarship. Recipients are awarded $1,000, mentored by a seasoned artist and hosted in their studio during the tour.
She’s been part of the tour since its inception. Bill Leigh, one of the participating sculptors, will guide you through his process of using the shapes of metal and other recycled materials to create dynamic forms.
Sprinkled throughout Clark County, studios are often in the artist’s own homes. This extraordinary experience is much more than just admiring the art. “You’re able to engage directly with the creative process and ask questions to learn from the artists themselves,” says Jennifer. “The artists will give live demonstrations; some even offer visitors hands-on participation.”
This is the 11th year of Open Studios, and the selection of artists is diverse, highlighting a variety of two and threedimensional mediums, including ceramics, photography, painting, printmaking, metal, wood, rock sculpting, glass, contemporary fiber art and mixed media. Among them is Ann Cavanaugh, an award-winning fused glass artist whose spectacular work graces the cover of this year’s tour guide.
During the two-day tour, adventurers can scan a QR code and access a userfriendly Google map on their mobile device that shows all studio locations. Printed guides will be available at each studio during the tour and in advance at each gallery sponsor, including Aurora Gallery and Art at the Cave Gallery in downtown Vancouver and Gallery 408 and the Red Door in Camas. Art at the Cave Gallery also hosts a preview on the first Friday of November from 5 to 8 p.m., highlighting a piece from each artist. It’s the perfect way to plan your itinerary since it’s almost impossible to see all 50 locations. As a past participant, Jennifer knows what a special experience Open Studios offers, not only for visitors but for the artists themselves. “It’s a unique opportunity to connect and talk to people about your work, much different than a traditional gallery setting,” she says. “You will be asked about things you never thought about, and it makes you dig deeper and learn more about who you are as an artist.”
For more on Artstra and the tour, visit artstra.org/ open-studios.
Ann Cavanaugh
Bill Leigh
NOT SLEEPING WELL?
Melissa Olson, MScN Nutrition Response Testing Clinical Master
Supporting Your Immune System This Winter
from Melissa Olson, In Tune Nutrition
As we head into the cooler, darker winter months, taking time to support our immune system and overall health can help us have a healthier season.
Nutrition is of utmost importance in staying well during winter as well as throughout the year. Eating a variety of whole foods – meats, vegetables and fruits that have been minimally processed, gives us the best opportunity to get the nutrients our body needs to function properly.
Vitamin D is a key nutrient for immune health. Our bodies make vitamin D during the summer months when we expose skin to sunlight. During the winter months, the sun is at too low of an angle for us to be able to manufacture vitamin D. Vitamin D can be stored in our bodies and used as needed. Research has shown, for those of us living above the 40th parallel, our vitamin D stores become depleted somewhere between December and January. Most people should consider supplementing vitamin D during the winter because of this. Note: Vitamin D is a fat-soluble nutrient meaning we need to take vitamin D supplements with a fat in order to absorb it.
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• focus
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• depression
• arthritis
• urinary tract/bladder/ kidney support
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• nerve & joint pain
• blood pressure
• autoimmune conditions
• skin issues
• weight loss
• general wellness
The best food sources of vitamin D are fatty fish (including salmon, sardines, and tuna) eggs (specifically from the yolks), beef liver, and fish liver oil. Special note: Most fish oil supplements are not from fish liver. Select a fish liver oil supplement specifically, such as cod liver oil, in order to support vitamin D levels.
Other key nutrients that support immune health include: Vitamin C - Foods containing more vitamin C than oranges include papaya, bell peppers, broccoli, brussels sprouts, strawberries, and pineapple. Supplementing vitamin C occasionally over the winter months can help the immune system do its job easier. Heads up, taking too much vitamin C can result in loose stools!
Vitamin A – The easily usable form, called preformed vitamin A, is found in animal proteins such as red meat, fish, and poultry. Precursors to vitamin A, called provitamin A, are found in plant foods and need to be converted to the usable form in the body. Sources include sweet potatoes, carrots, and dark leafy greens.
Zinc and Copper – These nutrients work in a balance in the body. Supplementing only Zinc for long periods of time can lead to a copper deficiency. Consider supplementing zinc only if you get sick. Opt to include foods that contain these nutrients. Oysters, beef, and poultry are excellent sources with smaller amounts found in shiitake mushrooms, cashews, asparagus, and spinach.
Eating a nutrient dense diet, having ways to cope with stress, and getting adequate rest all play a role in staying healthy during the winter season.
Tasty Traditions
25 years of authentic family recipes
another popular option, especially the carne asada, a sliced skirt steak cooked over charcoal served with a beautiful sear and guacamole, rice and beans.
Regular and small combination plates are available so guests can customize their order to their appetite. The kitchen serves a mouthwatering selection of appetizers, salads, tostadas, burritos, enchiladas, and traditional chicken, beef and seafood entrees. They also have a kid’s menu and a few American dishes. Of course, every meal is accompanied by warm bottomless tortilla chips and housemade salsa. For dessert, customers can indulge in delicious homemade flan, deep-fried ice cream, or crispy sopapillas. Lunch specials are on the menu Monday through Friday from 11:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m., so it’s convenient to stop and grab a quick bite during the workday.
By Angie Helvey, Contributing Writer
Photos by Brad Marti
The thick of summer has arrived in the Pacific Northwest, and it’s the perfect time to imagine yourself basking on a beach in Jalisco with an icy beverage. Los Jalapeños has been busy serving the tastiest traditional Mexican cuisine in Clark County for 25 years and is the ideal location to kick back and relax with an authentic meal and a cold margarita.
A family-owned operation, the restaurant was formerly managed by Alvaro’s brother-in-law, Martin Garcia, and his family. Alvaro brings 30 years of experience in the industry and started out working with his father-in-law at a restaurant in Seattle. Later, the family opened Los Palomas in Salem followed by Los Jalapeños in Vancouver and Camas. Las Palomas closed in December 2023 and Alvaro and his family moved to the Clark County area about six months ago to take over Los Jalapeños. Though management has changed, the menu has not and offers all the same delicious recipes the family has perfected over the years. “We enhance and improve the flavors as we go and make them our own,” Alvaro explains. The sizzling fajitas are a customer favorite and include your choice of steak, chicken, bacon-wrapped shrimp, or all three served over sauteed onions and peppers with salsa ranchera, sour cream, guacamole, rice, beans and piping hot tortillas. Their flavorful steaks are
Inside Los Jalapeños, the dining room is comfortable, casual and completely family-friendly, but a full bar is available with a nice choice of tequilas. The Cadillac is the most popular margarita but they also have a sweet selection of fruity flavors like mango, strawberry, and blackberry. One of their newer flavors, huckleberry, has quickly become a house favorite. Besides margaritas, the bartender can whip up anything you’d like, including frosty,
blended treats like pina coladas and strawberry daiquiris.
Though he’s been stationed in Salem at Las Palomos in recent years, Alvaro and his family have always been involved at Los Jalapeños. Relocating to join the community has been a wonderful experience and they’ve enjoyed seeing regular customers who’ve been coming since the beginning. “I’ve been serving meals to these kids and their families for years and suddenly I realize those kids are now drinking margaritas,” he laughs. It’s a family restaurant in every respect and Alvaro’s wife and kids help out regularly. Many of the employees are longtime friends. “Our whole family is happy to work with this community and we hope to do it for a long time.”
The restaurant offers online ordering on the website and delivery through
Ubereats, Grubhub and Doordash. It’s been nominated in the past for Best Mexican Food in Clark County and has a second location in Camas. So next time you’re in the mood for authentic Mexican cuisine with traditional flavors paired with cold drinks and friendly service, visit Los Jalapeños. Your taste buds will thank you.
Los Jalapeños is located at 11711 NE 99th St #940, Vancouver, WA, 98682. Please give them a call at 360-8836588 or visit their website at losjalapenosmexican.com
Los Jalapeños Camas is located at 231 NE 3rd Ave, Camas, WA 98607. Please give them a call at 360-834-5856.
Gourmet Roasted Pumpkin Seeds
Satisfy your post-carving cravings
Spicy-Sweet
2 cups raw pumpkin seeds
3 tablespoons butter, melted (or olive oil)
2 tablespoons pure maple syrup
3/4 teaspoon kosher salt, plus more
1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
* pinch of cayenne pepper
* freshly ground black pepper
Preheat to 325°. In medium bowl, combine butter, syrup, 3/4 teaspoon salt, cinnamon, ginger, pinch of cayenne pepper and few grinds of black pepper. Add seeds and toss to coat. Transfer to parchment-
lined baking sheet. Bake — stirring halfway through — until browned and fragrant, about 20 to 30 minutes. Season with pinch of salt.
Garlic-Parmesan
2 cups raw pumpkin seeds
2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil (or butter)
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 teaspoons garlic powder
1/4 teaspoon salt
Preheat oven to 325°F. In medium bowl, combine oil, cheese, garlic powder and salt. Add seeds and toss to coat. Transfer to parchment-lined baking sheet. Bake — stirring halfway through — until golden brown and fragrant, about 20 to 30 minutes.
Roasting Tips
Use the oven’s center rack.
Don’t crowd the pan.
Watch seeds to ensure they don’t burn.
3
Día de los Muertos
A celebration of life and memory in Mexico
This blending of pre-Hispanic and Christian traditions is a reflection of Mexico’s rich and complex history, where the combination of indigenous practices and European culture have created something entirely new.
By Robert Matsumura, Contributing Writer
Every autumn, as the air grows cool and crisp and the trees turn brilliant shades of gold and scarlet, Mexico becomes a whirl of vibrant colors and music. The fall season ushers in the Day of the Dead — Día de los Muertos in Spanish — a unique cultural celebration honoring the lives of those who have passed away. Though the name of the celebration sounds ominous, it is anything but. It’s a joyous festival that melds ancient indigenous traditions with Catholic influences, resulting in a dazzling tapestry of love, life and remembrance.
Central to the Day of the Dead is the belief that, once a year, the departed souls of loved ones return to the world of the living for a reunion with their families. These souls, whether they be the spirits of honored ancestors or beloved pets, are welcomed back with offerings of their favorite foods, drinks and mementos from their lives. Families construct ofrendas, or altars, decorated with candles, photographs and colorful papel picado — ornate paper cut-outs that flutter in the breeze. With its bright orange petals, the marigold, or cempasúchil, is everywhere, its sweet fragrance serving as a guide to draw the spirits home.
The two-day celebration, every November 1st and 2nd, corresponds on the Catholic calendar to All Saints’ Day and All Souls’ Day. The first day is focused on the souls of children, known as angelitos (little angels) while the second day is dedicated to adults.
What makes the Day of the Dead so special, however, is not just its pageantry, but a continual connection with loved ones that transcends the finality of death. Families gather in cemeteries, often staying overnight, to clean and decorate graves, share stories and celebrate with music and food. Frequently, entire communities join together for processions and parades, where everyone is invited to join in the festivities.
An important part of the Day of the Dead is the food. Each dish bears symbolic significance. Pan de muerto, a sweet, anise-flavored bread decorated with bone-shaped designs, is a classic treat. Sugar skulls, often personalized with the names of departed loved ones, are a sweet reminder of the cycle of life and death. Mole, tamales, and atole (a warm, spiced corn drink) are other traditional offerings, each selected for its connection to the deceased one’s tastes or the family’s heritage.
More than just a time to remember those who have passed, the Day of the Dead is a celebration of life itself. Rather than something to be feared, death is viewed as an integral aspect of the human experience. By honoring those who have departed, their memories are kept alive, thereby ensuring they continue on as a vital part of our lives.
So should you find yourself in Mexico during these magical days of autumn, embrace the celebration. Savor the delicious traditional foods, dance, and above all reflect on how, in celebrating the dead, we are also embracing the enduring beauty of life.
Weather Worthy
Family-owned-and-operated since 1994
that these valued individuals “are the keys to our success,” and couldn’t do it without them.
In addition to integrated custom patio covers and composite, low maintenance custom decks, Pioneer specializes in Acrylite patio cover systems. Acrylite patio covers are one of the most innovative systems in the industry and far outperform any other patio cover product on the market. “They’re such a cool product,” says Jennifer. “They’re a win-win for the client and the company.” Proven to block harmful UV rays, Acrylite covers offer an attractive light diffusing surface which emits soft uniform light even on overcast and rainy days. Acrylite systems also hold up to snow loads, high winds, driving rain and intense heat. A perfect solution for the Pacific Northwest’s everchanging weather!
By Patti Jo Brooks, Contributing Writer
by Lisa Kuhlman
Enjoy Outdoor Living All Year Long.” Pioneer Patio Covers & Decks offers a wide variety of options to bring more outdoor living space to your doorstep. Simple wood decking or elaborate patio systems, Pioneer Patio Covers & Decks has a creative solution for any desired style and function. Enjoy more of the Pacific Northwest’s natural beauty and charm from a fully-integrated customized environment just outside your door. Let Pioneer Patio Covers & Decks turn your dream into reality! With 30 years’ experience and expertise in the industry, owners Robert and Jennifer Holbrook have earned Pioneer Patio Covers & Decks an impeccable reputation. The Holbrooks know quality products and quality workmanship and proudly stand behind every aspect of their business. They are particularly grateful for their dedicated crew: Rikki, Charley and John, who have been with them between 18 to 20 years; and Josh who’s been with them for the last two years. Quick to give credit where credit is due, Robert acknowledges
Vancouver, Washington, is not only home to Pioneer Patio Covers & Decks; both Robert and Jennifer were born and raised in Vancouver. They are closely tied to their hometown and have reached out to support Soup’s On! through Share Vancouver, Rock Autism and the Hough Foundation.
Pioneer Patio Covers & Decks is located at 11318 N.E. Hwy. 99 in Vancouver. Call today for a free quote 360-574-9085 or visit the website pioneerpatiocovers.com for more information.
Photos
Man of Many Hats
Forging community where kids come first
By Patti Jo Brooks, Contributing Writer
Most of us try to serve our community in any way we can. Through our jobs, volunteering, or donating funds and resources we strive to make our community a better place to live. One such individual, John Idsinga, has focused his time, energy and efforts over the past three decades to strengthen the Battle Ground community and help it become a more progressive and inclusive environment to raise a family.
Some may recognize John as a former mayor, others may know of his involvement with the Food Bank, and others still may know him as their local Keller Williams real estate broker. Regardless of how you know John, you know he’s a valued community member, a dedicated husband and father with a blended family of seven children, numerous grandchildren and a wife of forty-one years. His ongoing service in the community is kid-centric. “I believe in the success of children,” he tells us, and his willingness to put those words into action benefits everyone.
A member of the City Council for close to eleven years, John Idsinga served as mayor for six years from 2000 and 2006. During that time, he oversaw the building of a new City Hall, which brought the municipal services under
one roof and included a Council Chamber available for community use as well. Battle Ground also had a new police station built while he was in office.
What brings John the most pride and joy is the world-class Skate & Bike Park built under his guidance while mayor. Located at the Fairgrounds Park, the City of Battle Ground’s Skate & Bike Park is ranked second in the state by the Seattle Times and considered one of the nation’s top 10 skate parks by Best of American Towns. Completed in the summer of 2006, the park project was initiated by a group of kids. John tells us, “I coached them on how to come to city council and get their parents involved and make lots of noise for the community.”
Generously giving his time, John has been a volunteer for North County Community Food Bank since 1992 and on the Board in various positions since 2006. The Food Bank services about 750 families a month — most are families with kids in the Battle Ground School District. “My goal is to feed kids,” he says. “We want to take care of everybody, but to me, kids are important.”
John is one of three principals of the Battle Ground Festival Association, which hosts Harvest Days and the Fireworks Show (weather permitting) and the Halloween Trick or Treat Walk with the downtown businesses. And if you listen closely enough, you just might hear Santa at the YMCA kids breakfast, the Christmas tree lighting or even the Keller Williams Realty family holiday party with a voice that sounds oddly like John’s.
To reach John Idsinga for community service or to help Battle Ground kids succeed, please email him at john@ idsingahomesales.com.
Saddled Up for Success
Equestrian team shows winning spirit
By Kelly Romo, Contributing Writer
The Battle Ground Equestrian Team, a proud member of the Washington High School Equestrian Teams (WAHSET), has been a vital part of the local equestrian community since the early 2000s. This team, along with others in the state, was inspired by a similar program in Oregon, which brought the excitement of interscholastic equestrian competition to high schools. Today, the Battle Ground team is one of many in WAHSET’s seven districts, all sharing a common goal to promote and organize equestrian competition within high school athletic programs across Washington.
The Battle Ground Equestrian Team, like all WAHSET teams, is dedicated to recognizing and celebrating the achievements of equestrian athletes. The team’s mission is to foster a positive, educational environment where high school students can grow their horsemanship skills, develop strong team bonds and gain recognition at district, state and national levels. The team competes in various events, ranging from performance and speed events to cattle working, jumping and drill team competitions, providing a broad spectrum of opportunities for young equestrians to shine.
One of the unique aspects of the Battle Ground Equestrian Team is its emphasis on teamwork and peer acceptance. The
team operates like a close-knit family, where athletes are expected to treat each other with respect and support. This supportive atmosphere extends beyond the arena, with students often helping each other with academic studies, tutoring and even life skills. Coaches, who are experts in their fields, play a role in guiding students through challenges, ensuring they not only improve their riding skills but also grow as individuals.
Sportsmanship is a core value for the Battle Ground Equestrian Team. Athletes learn the importance of controlling their emotions and building strong relationships with their horses, understanding that their mindset directly impacts both their own performance and their horse’s behavior. The team’s commitment to sportsmanship and horsemanship is reflected in the life skills they develop, which will serve them well beyond their high school years.
The Battle Ground team also welcomes students who do not own horses, offering them the chance to participate as grooms and be involved in all team activities except direct competition. Financial assistance is available through scholarships, ensuring that all interested students can join, regardless of their financial situation.
As the Battle Ground Equestrian Team continues to grow and thrive, they invite the community to support their efforts. Whether through donations, volunteering or simply cheering them on, the community plays a vital role in the team’s success.
If you’re interested in getting involved or learning how you can contribute to the team’s ongoing success, you can email battlegroundequestrian@gmail.com or call Jessica Merkowsky at 360-869-8835 or Jenna Anderson at 360-953-0957.
Unmasking Halloween
A journey into its ancient origins
By Robert Matsumura, Contributing Writer
Each autumn as October draws near, neighborhoods transform. Pumpkins leer from porches, skeletons and monsters festoon front yards, and children eagerly anticipate the thrill of trick-or-treating and the hoard of candy they will amass. But where did this creepy spectacle we call Halloween originate?
The answer to this stretches back over two thousand years to the ancient Celtic festival of Samhain (pronounced sowin). Celebrated on October 31st, Samhain marked the close of summer and the commencement of winter — a dark, cold, time associated with death in Celtic tradition. On the night before Samhain, the Celts believed the boundary between the living and the dead grew thin, permitting spirits to roam freely across
the earth. To ward off these visitors from the other side, people built bonfires and donned costumes fashioned from the heads and hides of animals.
Later, as the Roman Empire gained dominion over much of Europe, their festivals of Feralia (commemorating the passing of the dead) and Pomona (honoring the goddess of fruits and trees) merged with Samhain. This cultural fusion brought apple bobbing into the festivities. Pomona, the goddess of orchard fruits, was often depicted bearing apples, a symbol of the harvest and abundance. Incorporating apples into the holiday is a nod to Pomona’s influence — still seen today in bobbing for apples and the tradition of candy apples. As the centuries passed, celebrating the harvest and honoring the dead were integrated into Halloween traditions, blending Roman and the older Celtic customs together as something new.
Fast forward to the 8th century when Pope Gregory III declared November 1 as All Saints’ Day or All Hallows’ Day, to honor saints and martyrs. These new holidays were part of a broader strategy by the Christian church to replace pagan festivals with Christian ones. As time passed, the night before October 31, became All Hallows’ Eve — morphing eventually into Halloween. It was during this period that traditions like souling and guising emerged, where the poor went door to door requesting soul cakes in exchange for their prayers on behalf of the dead. It was this tradition that evolved into what we know today as trick-or-treating.
The jack-o’-lantern, one of the most iconic symbols of Halloween, has its own fascinating origin. The tradition of carving faces into vegetables predates Halloween and originates from ancient Irish folklore. According to the story, a man named Stingy Jack attempted to trick the Devil and was condemned to roam the earth with only a lantern fashioned from a carved-out turnip to light his way. In Ireland turnips were used for this purpose during Halloween festivities, but upon reaching the New World, Irish immigrants discovered that pumpkins, native to their new home,
were larger and easier to carve. This practical switch gave rise to the nowfamiliar jack-o’-lantern, a central feature of Halloween décor to this day. Halloween continued to evolve in the New World. In colonial America, European traditions integrated with indigenous harvest festivals creating new customs. While many American colonists celebrated Halloween with activities such as fortune-telling, dancing and communal gatherings, the Puritans, due to their strict religious views, frowned upon Halloween festivities, deeming them to be pagan and irrelevant. Despite puritanical naysayers, the 19th century saw Halloween expand into a communitycentered event with activities like parades, parties and mischief-making. Halloween also grew to be accepted by schools, churches and civic groups which began holding those same parties, parades and other festivities. As Halloween became a familyfriendly event, much of the raucous mischief-making of the past began to diminish. By the early 20th century, Halloween was celebrated from coast to coast as a national holiday.
In the decades following World War II, Halloween traditions were firmly entrenched with costumes, trick-or-treating and spooky decorations taking center stage. Instead of the laborious handsewn costumes of the past, factories now massproduced inexpensive costumes that made dressing up for Halloween a snap. As Halloween became increasingly commercialized, themed parties, haunted houses and an expanding array of Halloweenthemed merchandise became the norm.
Today, Halloween’s popularity has only burgeoned. Contemporary trends run the gamut from spooky movie marathons and elaborate haunted attractions, to viral social media challenges and interactive experiences. Year-round Halloween shops exist to satiate your spooky urges. Halloween has even expanded the ghostly season to stretch beyond October 31, with Halloween promotions and events commencing as early as September. So commercially successful is Halloween from a business standpoint that it stands second only to Christmas in terms of revenue generated — a testament to its enduring appeal across generations.
As the air grows chill and the trees turn red and gold, remember that Halloween is more than just candy, costumes and jack-o’-lanterns. It’s a tapestry woven from ancient rituals, Christian traditions and the spiritual beliefs of numerous cultures spanning centuries. It’s a time to embrace the spooky, celebrate community and be on the lookout for spirits that may stalk the earth at this sacred time of year.
So as you don your costume and select a pumpkin for carving, take a moment to ponder the ancient roots of this beloved holiday. Whether you’re young or simply young at heart, Halloween is an invitation to revel in the mystery of the unknown, celebrate the cycle of life and death, and to maybe even bob for an apple or two. And as the last light fades on All Hallows’ Eve, the timeless allure of things that go bump in the night is sure to embrace you once more.
Southwest Washington
Lisa Oldham
Tangible Systems, Inc.
P.O. Box 820758, Vancouver, WA 98682
360.904.9771
lisa@tangiblework.com tangiblework.com
Lori Ruiz
Edward Jones
821 S.E. 14th Loop, #101, Battle Ground
360.687.8837
Lori.Ruiz@edwardjones.com edwardjones.com/us-en/financialadvisor/lori-ruiz
Kelsey Morrison Pretty In Ink PMU & Rare Salon
315 N. Parkway Ave., Battle Ground
360.309.0783
raresalonllc@gmail.com
raresalon.co & prettyininkpmu.com
In 1999, I partnered with Tangible Systems to start a supported employment program in Clark County. Supported employment assists people with intellectual and developmental disabilities in identifying career goals and securing employment. We specialize in helping businesses fill entry-level positions creating tremendous cost savings. We’ve developed hundreds of jobs with many employers in an array of vocations. We support hiring, onboarding and training people to work as little as four and up to 20 hours per week. If you are interested in learning more about what we do and creative hiring practices, please check out our website at tangiblework.com and contact us for an introduction.
As an Edward Jones financial advisor, I believe it’s important to invest my time to understand what you’re working toward before you invest your money. It’s also important to be comfortable with your level of risk when investing, so we can balance it with your long-term goals. Whether you’re planning for retirement, saving for your children’s (or grandchildren’s) college, or aiming to protect your family’s financial future, I will work to develop successful strategies. Along the way, I will help make sure you stay on track and determine if any adjustments are needed. Throughout it all, I’m dedicated to providing you top-notch client service. Working together, I can help you develop a complete, tailored strategy to help you achieve your financial goals.
I am a local Cosmetic Tattoo Artist who specializes in lip blushing and two different eyebrow techniques. Two things I am most proud of are helping my clients feel confident about their appearance and to have been voted into the Top 5 Best in Clark County! I am also the co-owner of a newly opened salon in Battle Ground. Rare Salon is located on Parkway Avenue across from BGHS. We currently feature hair services, esthetics, permanent makeup and spray tanning. My goal with opening our salon was to bring like-minded entrepreneurs together to help grow and support each other in their small-business journey. I look forward to serving all of the beauty needs of our growing community!
Southwest Washington
Lisa Oldham
Tangible Systems, Inc.
P.O. Box 820758, Vancouver, WA 98682
360.904.9771
lisa@tangiblework.com
tangiblework.com
Lori Ruiz
Edward Jones
821 S.E. 14th Loop, #101, Battle Ground 360.687.8837
Lori.Ruiz@edwardjones.com edwardjones.com/us-en/financialadvisor/lori-ruiz
Kelsey Morrison
Pretty In Ink PMU & Rare Salon
315 N. Parkway Ave., Battle Ground
360.309.0783
raresalonllc@gmail.com
raresalon.co & prettyininkpmu.com
In 1999, I partnered with Tangible Systems to start a supported employment program in Clark County. Supported employment assists people with intellectual and developmental disabilities in identifying career goals and securing employment. We specialize in helping businesses fill entry-level positions creating tremendous cost savings. We’ve developed hundreds of jobs with many employers in an array of vocations. We support hiring, onboarding and training people to work as little as four and up to 20 hours per week. If you are interested in learning more about what we do and creative hiring practices, please check out our website at tangiblework.com and contact us for an introduction.
As an Edward Jones financial advisor, I believe it’s important to invest my time to understand what you’re working toward before you invest your money. It’s also important to be comfortable with your level of risk when investing, so we can balance it with your long-term goals. Whether you’re planning for retirement, saving for your children’s (or grandchildren’s) college, or aiming to protect your family’s financial future, I will work to develop successful strategies. Along the way, I will help make sure you stay on track and determine if any adjustments are needed. Throughout it all, I’m dedicated to providing you top-notch client service. Working together, I can help you develop a complete, tailored strategy to help you achieve your financial goals.
I am a local Cosmetic Tattoo Artist who specializes in lip blushing and two different eyebrow techniques. Two things I am most proud of are helping my clients feel confident about their appearance and to have been voted into the Top 5 Best in Clark County! I am also the co-owner of a newly opened salon in Battle Ground. Rare Salon is located on Parkway Avenue across from BGHS. We currently feature hair services, esthetics, permanent makeup and spray tanning. My goal with opening our salon was to bring like-minded entrepreneurs together to help grow and support each other in their small-business journey. I look forward to serving all of the beauty needs of our growing community!
Esmond Dining Collection
A sleek and contemporary style with a modern aesthetic. Rounded edges help soften the look.
Inspired by the Arts & Crafts Movement. A modern classic design in a natural finish.
Drawing inspiration from exposed beam architecture in traditional farmhouse style with an angular table base.
Cattail Bungalow
Casual Loft
Present Findings. Educate. Present Options.
Taking the pulse of your garage door’s health
of this family-owned and -operated business. “We give clients a report with the status of each component on the garage door: what’s working properly, what they might want to be aware of or might want to consider addressing that day. Sometimes clients, just like with our bodies, are unaware of other issues that might be causing the system not to run as smoothly as possible,” Brock explains.
Aided by the Digital Inspection Report with pictures to provide clarity, Ponderosa technicians educate clients regarding the findings of the report and inform them of various options to consider. “We always try to present at least three options,” Brock states, which vary accordingly by choice of parts, warranties, and other components.
By Patti Jo Brooks, Contributing Writer
by Lisa Kuhlman
Ponderosa Garage Doors is committed to keeping you safe! Acting on one of their core values, “Address Everything,” they will inspect your entire garage door system when onsite for a service. Not only will Ponderosa Garage Doors address the initial concern, they will also complete a 29-point safety inspection to reveal anything that may prove a hindrance to the door operating properly. Consulting with clients, presenting options, cultivating relationships and building trust is the beating heart of Ponderosa Garage Doors.
These practices, well above industry standard, have proven successful in maintaining the overall health of the garage door, warding off unexpected and potentially dangerous situations. Much like visiting your doctor, Ponderosa Garage Doors expertly “checks all the vitals,” relates Brock Fielding
Ponderosa offers financing and clients can be pre-approved onsite in just five minutes. Inspection reports can also be emailed to clients along with their receipt, so they have the report for future reference as well.
“Personally, our whole goal is to be a win-win for everyone,” Brock points out. “We want to make sure we’re transparent and clear, so clients feel
comfortable with the service that we provide.” Specialists who “address everything” to help protect your investment, Ponderosa Garage Doors services both residential and commercial garage doors in southwestern Washington and the Portland Metro area.
Check out their Facebook and Instagram pages for insights, promotions, educational and humorous videos, with new content added weekly.
Ponderosa Garage Doors is located at 12308 NE 56th Street in Vancouver. Call, text or email customerservice@ponderosagaragedoors. com. Visit their website ponderosagaragedoors.com for more
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Vancouver’s Health Insurance Experts
2025 Health Insurance Outlook: Medicare and ACA Marketplace
By Stacey L. Johnson, MPA
As 2025 approaches, significant legislative changes under the Inflation Reduction Act are poised to transform health insurance coverage, affecting both Medicare beneficiaries and ACA Marketplace enrollees. These enhancements are designed to increase affordability and accessibility, ensuring that more Americans can receive the healthcare they need without undue financial burden.
Medicare Enhancements-What You Need to Know: Capped Costs for Essentials:
• Insulin is capped at $35/month.
• Out-of-pocket costs for prescription drugs have a new annual ceiling of $2,000.
Enhanced Support for Low-Income Beneficiaries:
• Expansion of the Low-Income Subsidy program ensures more seniors can afford their medications.
Flexible Payment Options:
• Beneficiaries can now pay their Part D drug costs in manageable monthly installments.
Direct Negotiation for Lower Drug Prices:
• For the first time, Medicare will negotiate directly with drug manufacturers to lower prices on specific costly drugs.
Affordable Care Act (ACA) Marketplace:
• Federal and state subsidies help Washingtonians who struggle to secure health insurance. This includes those who don’t have employer-based coverage and who are not eligible for programs such as Medicare and Medicaid.
• Expanded Assistance: Enhanced subsidies now available to middle-income individuals, significantly boosting enrollment.
Impact of Subsidies:
• Subsidized enrollees enjoy plans with low or no premiums and minimal deductibles.
Consequences of Subsidy Expiry:
• Premiums could steeply increase if subsidies end in 2025, potentially reversing enrollment gains. For the plan year 2025, the WA Insurance Commissioner’s Office has approved a rate increase of 10.7% due to rising health care costs.
• The cost of making these subsidies permanent is estimated at $335 billion over ten years.
Stacey Johnson, the driving force behind Your Insurance Gal Agency, is a dedicated advocate for health insurance. With extensive experience as a Medicare & Health Insurance expert, Stacey has committed her career to empowering people by simplifying the complexities of healthcare coverage. Her agency in Vancouver offers personalized guidance and a compassionate approach with over 81 years of combined experience between her agents, ensuring clients receive informed and caring support. She has been voted Best of Clark County four times, including in 2024.
Contact Stacey & her team at Your Insurance Gal Agency for expert advice on navigating Medicare and ACA changes: (360) 7711155 or Stacey@YourInsuranceGal.com.
