Looking to spice up date night? Or just want a night on the town with friends? Check out these fantastic local spots for every kind of grown-up adventure.
Learn how one Vancouver woman is leveling up the listening as a certified peer counselor through her new Bended Ear Project.
Board Gaming in Clark County is Far From Boring
Bored no more! Discover how board gamers in Vancouver are creating community, one move at a time.
www.VancouverFamilyMagazine.com
Oriented Toward Hope
Now that we’re over a month into 2025, does the New Year have you feeling overwhelmed, unmotivated or daunted? Maybe the “New Year, New You” slogan has come to feel more oppressive than inspiring. Maybe some big changes are coming your way and it’s hard to imagine how it will all work out. Or maybe 2024 was a rough one, and you’re holding out hope for some relief and resolution in 2025. Most of us are carrying some pretty heavy baggage most of the time. But, as teacher, social media influencer and No. 1 New York Times bestselling author, Sharon McMahon, wrote in her book “The Small and the Mighty” (Thesis, 2024), “We should orient our spirits toward hope.” She was referring to the American experiment, and the ordinary people whose hope and tenacity led them to do extraordinary things to improve life in the United States. But her words can apply to our individual decisions and lives as well as to our civic duties. “I want you to know that the American experiment is full of ill-equipped people,” McMahon goes on, “people with the so-called ‘wrong’ faces, and the ‘wrong’ life circumstances who just went for it. They just tried something no one had done before. They were willing to let other people watch them fail. They just did the next right thing. I want you to know that you should keep going. That often, the biggest breakthroughs happen after the darkest nights.” Perhaps this is your year to make that breakthrough after a particularly dark night. If not, perhaps your “Dark Night of the Soul” can deepen your ability to help someone else in need. Either way, all of our experiences have the potential to lead us to new adventures and opportunities.
In this issue, learn how one local woman emerged from her own dark night to create a space for listening and healing (page 16), find the coolest date night spots around Vancouver (page 10) and discover how local board gamers are creating a growing community (page 18). Plus, go to VancouverFamilyMagazine.com to check out our top ten indoor play spaces for kids in Clark County.
Mason and Sam live in Salmon Creek and met while they were in college. They enjoy hiking with their two dogs, Scout and Pretzel, and welcomed baby boy Bennett who turns 1 this month.
Photo by Yukari Powers. yukaripowersphotography.com yspowers@gmail.com @yspowers @yukaripowersphotography
Photo by Marie Pham Photography
V
FEBRUARY 2025
Love Serving Autism at Vancouver Tennis Center
ancouver Tennis Center (VTC) recently partnered with national organization, Love Serving Autism, to add new programming to empower individuals with autism and other developmental abilities through the game of tennis. The program provides specialized therapeutic racquet sports interventions to support developmental needs, promote inclusion, enhance physical health and communication and foster emotional well-being. VTC is managed by nonprofit, United States Tennis Association Pacific Northwest (USTA PNW), which relies on community and donor support to deliver Love Serving Autism and other programs, such as Blind and Low Vision and Wheelchair Tennis.
The Love Serving Autism classes are designed to teach children and adults with autism and unique abilities communication and life skills, fostering functional independence both on and off the courts. Through progressive lesson plans, participants engage in hand-eye coordination activities to improve motor coordination, stroke-production drills to enhance gross motor skills, and social interaction activities to build communication and life skills.
Founder Lisa Pugliese-LaCroix, a former collegiate and professional tennis player turned speech therapist, launched Love Serving Autism in 2017 as an after-school program in South Florida. Today, the program serves approximately 750 participants across 50 locations nationwide. Sanja Lemes, director of tennis and delivery for USTA PNW, connected with Pugliese-LaCroix in late 2023 and worked with her team to integrate the program into the 2024 class schedules at VTC. “The Pacific Northwest is full of amazing athletes who deserve access to the social, mental, emotional and physical benefits of tennis,” said Lemes.
The social component of the programming, in particular, has proved to be beneficial, according to Pugliese-LaCroix. With approximately 40% of participants being non-speaking or non-verbal, the class setting promotes meaningful interactions and the development of expressive language skills. “Just having this opportunity to engage with others and not feel like they are socially isolated is critical for their development,” said Pugliese-LaCroix.
Registration for Love Serving Autism is open and the cost per class is $15, with scholarships also available. Learn more and register at pnwtenniscenters.com/vancouver
Parenting and Play Community at
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(L-R) Julie Brown, Debbie Kramer, Nikki Sanders and Annie Hogg participate in a parent enrichment event at St. Andrew Nature Preschool, facilitated by Hogg, who specializes in open-ended toys.
Photo by Kara Landry.
An instructor and a participant enjoy Love Serving Autism at Vancouver Tennis Center in November, 2024.
Photos by Paoa Bentz, USTA PNW.
50 YEARS OF STITCHING: QuiltFest NW to Display 300+ Quilts and Honor Veterans
Clark County Quilters recently celebrated 50 years since their founding, and the guild’s annual QuiltFest NW in March will reflect the history, creativity and humanitarian work of the roughly 250 members who make up the group. In addition to 300 quilts on display, including the Vancouver Tapestry, QuiltFest will honor members of our nation’s military by presenting a Quilt of Valor each day of the three-day event to deserving active or retired veterans. The guild’s charitable arm, Comfort Quilts, will also have a special display at the event, symbolizing the huge number of quilts and other items that are made by Clark County Quilters each year using personal and donated fabrics and materials, and gifted to various nonprofits and human services agencies throughout the county.
“Quilters have spent many hours designing, fabric shopping, sewing by machine and by hand to produce masterpieces from small pieces of fabric,” said Karmen Ray, QuiltFest NW co-chair. “These quilts are made to be used and loved or displayed as beautiful works of art.”
QuiltFest NW will happen March 13-15, 2025 at Clark County Event Center, 10 am-4 pm each day. Admission is $10 per day,
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free for children under age 12, and special discounts for military veterans. Parking is $6. For more details, visit quiltfestnw.org or clarkcountyquilters.com
Top: Clark County Quilters’ 2025 Opportunity Quilt under construction. The proceeds from tickets sold for this quilt will support The Assistance League of Southwest Washington.
Bottom: Clark County Quilters president, Vivian Angerman, poses with two quilts she made.
Angerman.
Families now have a new place to go to find fellow parents in a similar phase of life, and to learn new parenting skills from local professionals including an elementary school principal, a family therapist, a librarian and a pediatrician. St. Andrew Nature Preschool in Vancouver recently started a free “Parenting and Play Community” held at their preschool the second and fourth Fridays of each month from 10-11:30 am. On the second Fridays, parents can gather with their kids for a casual playgroup in St. Andrew’s indoor space with room to climb and run and even play outside on the grounds as weather permits. On the fourth Friday of each month, at the same time, same place, parents can learn about important parenting topics from local experts while free childcare for ages 12 months-5 years is provided (with RSVP). All families are welcome, regardless of their religious affiliation or whether their child is enrolled as a student at St. Andrew.
Monthly class themes include Parenting for Social Justice, Early Childhood Literacy and more, and will focus on early childhood, from age 2 through
second grade, but could be relevant for other ages and stages as well. “The idea [for creating the group] came out of staff brainstorming in response to wanting to build community and support families,” says preschool director, Kara Landry. “We wanted to create a space for parents to come together to learn and discuss relevant topics, and to feel more connected with other families in their parenting journey. While parenting can be fun and joyful, it can also be complicated or lonely and make you feel like you have no idea what you are doing! We hope these free, community events will provide families with connections and open new understandings as we come together to play, learn and grow.” All classes and playgroup sessions are drop-in and do not require registration or attending prior classes. Childcare does require an RSVP so St. Andrew can staff accordingly. St. Andrew Nature Preschool is located within St. Andrew Lutheran Church, at 5607 NE Gher Rd., Vancouver. Learn more and RSVP for childcare at preschoolstandrew.org/resources
Photo by Carol Hattan.
Photo courtesy Clark County Quilters/Vivian
need to go far because we have plenty of hot spots this side of the river.
If you’re on Vancouver’s new waterfront and wanting an upscale experience, options abound, but here are a few of my favorites. Make a reservation at Maryhill Winery or get there early enough and you can dine in a hollowed-out barrel and munch on their small plates while enjoying a tasting flight. In the mood for dinner? Go big and order their shrimp
Take a date, take a friend or take a solo trek out tosomeofVancouver’sbestspotstomixitupand keepyourselfbusywhileweallwaitforspring.
By Emily Corak
Photos courtesy of each location, unless otherwise noted
linguine. If you’re a sushi lover and want an elegant yet traditional Japanese experience, ShinSen Sushi & Lounge. Order a bubble bath drink, and don’t skimp on the spicy tuna rolls! For some incredible paella and gorgeous views, I highly recommend Dosalas, a Latin restaurant and tequila bar. And finally, if you’re willing to spend a little more for quality steaks, try El Gaucho, and treat yourself to a tableside Caesar salad where you can request as much garlic as your heart desires.
Moving away from the new waterfront, Cecilia recently transitioned from brunch only to serving dinner as well, but you can’t go wrong with either option. With a modern, classy vibe and great drinks, my personal recommendations are the chilaquiles at brunch and the filet Oscar for dinner, but it’s only winners here.
If you’re craving great seafood with a view of the marina, The Cove offers up some of my favorite seafood chowder and seared scallops that will change your life.
If it’s Italian you’re in the mood for, Nostra Tavola bridges a family vibe with elevated food, and they have some of the best pizza in Vancouver. With plenty of freshly made sauces to choose from, I’m partial to the Bolognese or the hazelnut pesto, but try them all out!
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CECILIA SHINSEN
ELGAUCHO
Cecilia photos courtesy NW Hospitality Group
For my 40th birthday this year, I ate downtown with a group of friends at The Sedgwick and loved it—we devoured the small plates, and the ginger butternut soup and the Spanish croquettes were absolute stars.
Phone advice line available 24/7
Compassionate, comprehensive care
Main Office
• Open 7 days a week
• Weekday evenings open until 7pm
• Sat & Sun morning for Urgent Care
Creek Office • Monday-Friday 8am to 5pm
Elements Restaurant downtown prioritizes cooking with the seasons. The chef works tirelessly to support local farmers, ranchers and bakers to keep the cuisine regional and fresh. The rotating seasonal menu will keep you coming back to try new things all the time, but always try the beets if they’re available!
Finally, for a unique and authentic dining experience, you must try DEDIKo. This restaurant, run by a mother and son from the country of Georgia, serves traditional
regional food such as handmade dumplings and baklava. Their authentic menu and quality cooking means regulars and newcomers keep the place packed, so you will most likely need a reservation. Local foodie, Andy Kartchner, who used to live in Armenia (which borders Georgia on the south), was craving authentic food from the region and was thrilled when DEDIKo opened. He says, “Let me tell you, it did not disappoint!” He raves about the authentic dishes, the gorgeous presentation and one of the most unique culinary experiences in the Clark County area. “The flavors immediately transport me back, even down the amazing pear lemonade, which is a must-try.” gems.
Woody’s Tacos moved locations from downtown to further east on Mill Plain, but the flavors are still outrageous, and it’s my goto place for shrimp tacos. Matt Wastradowski
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moved to Portland a while back, but says, “I love Woody’s Tacos and will happily cross the bridge for them.”
If you’re a shrimp lover like I am, you’ll love Magnolia Tavern. Their shrimp and grits are a must, but they also have an impressive selection of whiskey and beers and serve up classic southern dishes like jambalaya and fried chicken.
For some delicious and homey Filipino food, you’ve got to try Manila Couve for traditional dishes like chicken adobo and lumpia. The staff is lovely, and the food is pure comfort.
A staple in our household that we keep in the regular rotation is Frontier Public House for their mellow vibe, drinks and classic dishes that consistently hit the spot. They serve a little bit of everything, but I can never resist the beet salad or the quesadillas. If you are on a family date, my kids love the paper tablecloths to use as their own personal canvases.
And if you’re on the downtown waterfront and want something relaxed, I suggest Stack 571 for any burger you could dream up, plus milkshakes. (It also happens to be a favorite spot for Brussels sprouts in Vancouver.) And if you’re craving pasta, Grassa is a very chill and tasty spot with anything from carbonara to a rigatoni with pork ragu. So. Good. Brussels
And if dessert is more your speed or you want to add on after a night out, consider these sweet spots: Treat (next door to DEDIKo) is a handmade ice cream haven. Another family favorite in our household, you can’t go wrong with flavors like ooey gooey butter cake and salted peanut butter cup. Worth any wait in line!
Ice Cream Renaissance is another classic for ice cream and other sweet treats, but it’s also a hangout spot with games and an adorable vibe. Liisa Dilley says, “This is the best ice cream in Vancouver, hands down.”
For an enormous display of freshly baked goods like macaroons and Ukrainian sweets, head to Sweet Touch Bakery and pair your pastry with their locally brewed coffee. You can make an entire meal out of this place because they have
GREAT NORTH COFFEE
Wanting to get some exercise and adventure but remain indoors? Try a date at The Source Climbing Center, the rock-climbing gym downtown!
Thatcher’s, River Maiden
Project, Compass Coffee
Coffee. Try one or try them all, but with locally sourced coffees and fresh pastries, they are the cutest spots for a date.
THATCHER'S C OFFEE
If you’re on a family date or just want to tap into your inner child, try Sky Zone for trampolines galore and Urban Air for more bouncing, zip lines and obstacle courses suspended in the
For a combination of good food and indoor golf, check out Courses Golf and Grill to eat, drink
ICE CREAM RENAISSANCE
and try your hand at an incredibly realistic golf simulator. It’s a super fun spot for golf lovers or aspiring golfers who don’t want to brave the elements for 18 holes.
If you’re looking for a nice walk or bike ride somewhere scenic, here are a few personal favorite trails for a casual, afternoon date with family and friends, in, or near Vancouver: Burnt Bridge Creek Trail, Salmon Creek Trail and Whipple Creek. If you want a cozy walk in an old-growth forest without having to drive far,
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COURSES GOLF & GRILL
Photo by Jennifer Hansen
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home and remind you of your date forever. I have a souvenir mug from a mother-daughter date I gifted my mom last Christmas. Whether you’re a pro or an absolute beginner—learning something new together is the ultimate bonding experience.
Live, Laugh, Love Art Studio is for people who want to paint the pottery that’s already been made for them! It’s also a family-friendly or date
night spot for artists wanting to experiment with glass blowing, glass fusing, canvas painting or candle making.
Are you and your date book lovers? Consider a day of grabbing a coffee or a sweet treat and heading to the local bookstores in Clark County. A few of Vancouver’s best offerings are White Oak Books, Birdhouse Books, Vintage Books and if you love comics, I Like Comics is aptly named!
If you want to learn something new by yourself or together, Clark College offers entire series or one-off classes to learn new skills in cooking, writing, painting or anything else you’re curious about!
get out? No, thank you. But I could not have
Photo by Joanna and George Merkl
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been more wrong and now I’m hooked. I’ve done all but one of the rooms at NW Escape Experience and am starting to work my way through paradigmQ. These require teamwork and alternating perspectives and whether you “win” or not, you’ll be laughing about it and dissecting your skills over dinner later!
What I lack in athletic skills, I make up for in curiosity, so I had to try axe throwing. I’ve tried both Firehouse Axes and Celtic Axe Throwing at Hopworks, and they’re both great spots to eat, drink and try out a new skill (that you will be shown how to do safely and accurately). Use an axe for target practice, tic-tac-toe and any other game you can come up with.
If you love enormous pizza and love arcades, Hungry Sasquatch and their adjacent bar, Thirsty Sasquatch is a beloved spot. Grab a slice and challenge each other to some old school classic arcade games like Pac-Man or pinball.
NW ESCAPE EXPERIENCE
If you and your partner or friends are up for something out of the ordinary for a memorable evening, Vancouver has options! If you want to take out some frustration or just show off your physical prowess, head to OutRaged Rage Room. They also now offer black light paint throwing! With plenty of five-star reviews, visitors have described the experience as cathartic, freeing and an absolute blast.
For a unique experience that you don’t have to travel to Portland for, try Underbar. Head downstairs to this basement-level bar for food, beverages and your pick of entertainment. They’ve got trivia, karaoke, stand-up-comedy, drag shows and bingo with craft cocktails to boot. Check their calendar and try something new!
TRAGEDRAGEROOM
Finally, this one isn’t technically in Vancouver, but if you want something fresh and memorable, try dining at Wyld Pines Public House in Camas, one of only six “dark dining” experiences in the country. With a fixed seven-course menu, diners are given black-out goggles before the meal even begins to heighten the other senses and enhance the dining experience. If you’re feeling adventurous, want some lively debate with your date about what flavors you detect and an experience you won’t forget, this is one meal you’ve got to try!
Whatever you decide, Vancouver has so much to offer. Try something new with someone special and treat yourself to an outing that’s uniquely you!
Emily Corak has lived in the Pacific Northwest for the past three decades. A former educator with Vancouver School District, Emily is now a freelance writer, photographer and mom to two young kids with big personalities. She recently earned her MFA in creative writing and, if given the choice, she would spend all her spare cash on travel and books.
READ OUR LATEST BLOG POST... WHAT ARE CLOSING
COSTS?
Awwww... the month of love, and Real Estate. If you are a buyer, we are coming into the tail end of the ‘best time of year’ to be a buyer. As people start getting their tax refunds this coming month, we will see the market start to pick up. If you are a seller looking for the ‘best time of the year’ to be a seller.... March-May is coming. February can go either way....
Did you know that 2024 was the worst year for real estate in the past 30 years? I was talking with a friend about that, and she asked about multiple offers still happening, which depend on the home, the area, and the price range. Some price ranges and some homes are still getting multiple offers especially if a home is underpriced to encourage those offers to compete. That is a marketing option.
Now, I personally felt that 2024 was much better than 2023, but that is just what I noticed locally. So what happens this year? Well, no one knows. My magic wand is on the fritz, the crystal ball has a crack, and the magic 8-ball keeps telling me to “ask again later”. The market is still in a state of flux and there are so many variables that could move it either way. The market has adjusted to interest rates, and the slower market opens up homes that have negotiability for buyers. The home may be negotiable in price and/or seller-assisted closing costs.
The feeling of spinning clay on a pottery wheel with your hands is one of the most relaxing sensations there is. The clay is both warm and smooth, and the soft whirring of the turning wheel invites you to tune out the world. Like a grown-up version of playing with playdough, or even mud, “throwing a pot” allows you to focus solely on the task and leave the stress of life behind for a time. Firing and painting come later, and all parts of the creation process can be therapeutic, but at Bended Ear Project you’ll be invited to literally throw your pot and destroy it as part of a stress-releasing process.
Operating in Fourth Plain Community Commons as well as offering mobile services, Bended Ear Project is the creation of Kayla Sanchez, who discovered she found a “sense of catharsis and completion” from intentionally breaking her pottery pieces. “It helped me cope with past negative experiences. When I was destroying it, [I found that] all of that resentment and aggression wasn’t necessary,” she says.
both PTSD and synesthesia, which Cleveland Clinic defines as “when your brain routes sensory information through multiple unrelated senses, causing you to experience more than one sense simultaneously.” “It makes the world a bit more vibrant and interconnected for those who experience it,” shares Sanchez, “adding a unique layer to how [we] perceive [our] surroundings.”
BENDING BARRIERS
Like many, Sanchez has sought therapy at different times in her life. Some therapeutic modalities were more helpful than others, but through each therapist, she found a new tool to help with coping or parenting skills, emphasizing, “It takes a lot of practice.” However, just getting in to see a therapist was in some ways more challenging. “The biggest barrier was getting over the stigma of seeking mental health services,” she told me. Sanchez found that even with insurance or offering to pay cash, finding a therapist whose schedule and expertise aligned with what she needed was daunting to say the least. “Then when I did get the opportunity to have assistance with my challenges, the wait time felt like an eternity.”
Sanchez says the idea to start Bended Ear Project came from wanting to try art therapy and knowing she wasn’t the only one who was dealing with complicated barriers. When I asked where her courage to become an entrepreneur came from, she said the confidence “came from being angry. You can be mad and use it as a call to action. I was angry at the fact that people had to wait for services and it’s so expensive.” Staff at Fourth Plain Forward, which helped Sanchez secure a business grant, are excited to see how this new service will directly affect their community. Wil Fuentes, a program manager at Fourth Plain Forward, who coached Sanchez in facilitating workshops, says that “Kayla is a people person, a dedicated learner and a great listener who truly wants to help others. She is genuinely eager and passionate about helping the community thrive.”
Though not a licensed medical provider or mental health therapist, Sanchez is in the process of becoming a certified
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Kayla Sanchez recently became a certified peer counselor through Washington State Health Care Authority and now runs Bended Ear Project, helping clients process challenges through art and engaged communication.
Photo courtesy Kayla Sanchez.
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peer counselor (CPC) through Washington State Health Care Authority. Peer-to-Peer support is an alternative to traditional therapy provided by those with lived experiences in things like trauma or addiction. They receive training “in active listening, empathy, advocacy and specific skills to support their peers and are partnered with a facility to provide mental health support.”
Sanchez first learned about the opportunity to become a CPC from Catholic Community Services’ WISe program, which stands for Wraparound with Intensive Services, when her family was experiencing severe life challenges. All CPCs agree to follow confidentiality rules (Sanchez strictly adheres to client privacy laws) and must pass a state exam. The goals of the CPC program are to provide emotional support, social connection, skill building and advocacy for those who need more access to mental health services so that individuals and families feel empowered and hopeful in facing life’s challenges.
ART AND AN AUDIENCE
To bend someone’s ear is an idiom for talking to someone for an extended period of time. In addition to making an art piece, patrons who visit Sanchez are invited to verbally share their stories. Each session is completely personalized. Before a booking, Sanchez starts with a phone interview or email survey to understand what the client is hoping for and if her services are the right fit. Pottery has been a popular choice, but any art medium is an option, from beading to painting or sketching and even graffiti. As the client begins working, Sanchez will ask about the problems they would like help with and guide them to incorporate it into their art.
“We all have a stress threshold,” she says. “[I help others] learn to recognize that stress threshold and how to prepare and then manage in the moment with mindful exercises. I practice those skills with clients, giving them a different lens and changing the focus [through their art.] For example, if I [am meeting with] a stressed-out parent, I’ll ask, ‘What is the one thing you wish you could do differently about your parenting right now?’ or ‘When you feel like yelling at your kids, what colors come up for you?’”
Some clients will work on an art piece for multiple sessions, and then the invitation to destroy it will be given. However, most of Sanchez’s first clients have chosen to keep their pieces instead. “I believe some people choose to keep their art versus destroy it because it is a reminder of their triumph over the negative feelings that they have experienced. It is also a great way to reflect back on the time when something’s affected them adversely and they were able to overcome it by using art
Eventually, Sanchez hopes to become a licensed art therapist, but still plans to stay in Clark County to serve her home community. In the meantime, she is filling a gap in local mental health services especially “for people who don’t want to do traditional therapy, but want to work out what is bothering them. The mental health sector is overwhelmed. I wanted to give back to the community and do my part,” she says, adding, “There’s often a stigma associated with seeking traditional therapy, which can deter people from getting the help they need. Alternatives like peer support groups can feel less intimidating and more approachable . . . My primary goal is to eliminate barriers and the stigma surrounding seeking help in your time of needing support.”
Sanchez wants people to know that when life gets hard, there are people willing to lend you their ear. Don’t wait to seek help. With parental stress and loneliness now labeled as epidemics in the United States, talking out problems with a trusted friend and/or professional counselor is more important than ever. But if you need something in the middle, she is there to offer her “therapeutic services to the highest extent possible with a holistic and empathetic approach.” Learn more at bendedearproject.com.
Sarah Mortensen holds a degree in marriage and family studies and works for Vancouver Public Schools as a paraeducator in addition to her role as associate editor of Vancouver Family Magazine. When Sarah is not reading to her kids or students, she is probably in her backyard taking care of her garden. She also enjoys hiking, hot chocolate and dressing up for Halloween. She lives in Vancouver with her husband, son and daughter.
Kayla Sanchez poses with former Washington governor, Jay Inslee, at a community gathering and discussion about the future of Vancouver's Fourth Plain Corridor. Photo courtesy Kayla Sanchez.
Photo by Dan Cristian Pădureț at pexels.com.
B O RD GAMING
in Clark County is Far from Boring
By Catherine Stacks
A drop of sweat falls from your brow as you move as quickly as you can. It’s a race to the finish and the stakes are high. No, it’s not a marathon or sports game—it’s a regular Monday night at Contrarian’s Game Café, where they host a weekly speed puzzling event. Board gaming in Clark County is certainly having a moment, and Contrarian’s Game Café owner, Keith Weatherwax, is here for it. He opened the café in September, creating a space to welcome local board game lovers, as well as a café that serves coffee, sandwiches, baked goods and more.
“We have weekly trading card tournaments, board game learn-to-play sessions, Dungeons and Dragons and other tabletop events, and more. Our most popular events are driven by the community with people organizing their own board game groups,” Weatherwax says.
The shop offers classics like Monopoly and Clue, along with favorites like Wyrmspan, Root and many more, all available for purchase, or to play for free at their in-store library. “People want places they can go and feel comfortable in that isn’t their home or work. What we see the most is people who want a place hang out . . . [and] really give people a reason to with each other,” Weatherwax shares. Providing a place where people can play alleviates some of the biggest
challenges of gaming. “We are working to remove as many barriers as possible. We make it easy. Our table space is free to use and families can bring in their own games or borrow from [us].”
Weatherwax knew he had created something special when he and his team decided to host a last-minute Halloween game night just a few weeks after opening. “We quickly put together the idea and didn’t expect a large turnout,” he says, “but [we did get a lot of people] and all of them were new to the store and some of the best people to spend an evening gaming with. I wanted to create a space anyone could feel comfortable in, and that night it felt like we succeeded.”
Chris Heagy, manager of Fate & Fury Games and Pub in Vancouver, also sees the value in creating a space to play. Their location on Burton Road hosts open play and league nights, mostly for Warhammer 40k and Magic the Gathering, seven days a week, plus serves pizza and other pub fare. “It’s our nature as humans to want to solve puzzles and compete,” Heagy says, adding, “And now we’re in a golden age of gaming where there is a niche in gaming for everyone to enjoy and exercise their mind.”
Fate & Fury was purchased in 2023 by the owner of BatCave Games, also in Vancouver.
Online Community for In-Person Play
Turns out there’s a big online presence for those who love board games, including Vancouver resident Todd Patriquin, who is known on Instagram and TikTok as @imagineallthemeeple, and has a combined follower count of 43,000 across both platforms. “I began shooting creative board game photography, initially for fun and then professionally for publishers,” he says. “Just a short time later I started working for Print & Play [a board game manufacturing company based here in Vancouver] and was suddenly surrounded by the hobby! Now I get to spend my days helping designers print new and exciting games.”
Patriquin has become more involved in the local gaming community and enjoys what it has to offer. “Most of my involvement these days is through Print & Play, as we’re always trying to support local game design events and have hosted a few game days in the past. I’ve also
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been able to participate in some local meetups over the years thanks to the ever-growing Facebook group, ‘Vancouver, WA Board Game Community’ which has become the go-to place for local gamers to connect,” he shares.
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Middle: Todd Patriquin photographs tabletop games professionally and runs Instagram and TikTok accounts @imagineallthemeeple.
Right: Board game enthusiast, Alan Cook, aka @board.game.dad, poses with a pile of games.
the last Eugene Games
Page 18: Left: Fate & Fury Games shopkeeper, Kodey Tuttle, sets up for a Warhammer 40k league.
Photo by Chris Heagy.
Photo courtesy Todd Patriquin.
Photo courtesy Alan Cook.
Left: Verla LeBaron poses at
Gala before COVID hit. Photo by Kelly Miller.
Right: Jacob Smith (right), founder of the Vancouver, WA Board Game Community Facebook group plays a tabletop game with Teejay Jacoby. Photo courtesy Jacob Smith.
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In fact, the Facebook group has played a major role in his life. When his family first moved to Vancouver, they didn’t know anyone and were looking to make connections. “After stumbling on the Facebook group I decided to push myself a bit out of my comfort zone and attended one of the regular Tuesday night meetups,” Patriquin recalls. “While I was there I ended up meeting someone who happened to work at Print & Play. I was shocked to find out such a place existed and ended up getting his card to learn more about the company. Fast forward years later and not only am I working at P&P, but so are two other people who attended that very same game night!”
The creator of that Facebook group, Jacob Smith, is an avid board game player and started the group about nine years ago. “I started a board game night on Tuesday nights with some friends,” he says. “We were having so much fun we wanted to bring other people in to play with us. Eventually we moved to my church where we got 40-50 people consistently every week to play games. The Facebook group has since grown to over 2,000 members and is widely used by others to set up game nights. I don’t think my game night was the first in Vancouver, but it became the largest and most recognized and started pushing people to the other groups that met on different days.”
Play Time and Skill Building
Although it’s great to connect online with others that share the passion of board gaming, there’s something special about non-screen play and board gaming in person.
“The most appealing part for me is the opportunity to get together with friends for a night of fun and laughter,” Smith says. “It doesn’t even so much matter what games we play, just that we have this excuse to regularly see each
other.” Patriquin agrees, and adds that valuable skills are gained through gameplay. “Not only are we engaged in thoughtful community with one another,” he says, “but we’re also learning, developing and honing important skills. With the sheer amount of games available to us there is a game to help you improve in just about any way imaginable.”
Heagy asserts that tabletop games offer a different flavor of fun than electronic games. “Tabletop games require an additional level of thinking,” he says. “Not only are you thinking about your own strategy and tactics, but you’re also having to keep things such as the game state and the rules in mind. You’re relying on your own brain to do all the calculations, not a computer. It also allows for a greater level of social interaction and collaboration. Sometimes tabletop gaming is not just about playing the game itself, but the relationships you develop and the stories you tell with each other.”
Patriquin encourages families to get involved in the local community and come say hello. “There are so many different game groups that have either started here and branched out or are hosting regular public meetups.” FVRLibraries also lends board games and hosts regular Board Game Days at various branches.
Gather ‘Round
Clark County is not the only place with a thriving board game scene. Over the river in Oregon, Verla LeBaron and Alan Cook have also amassed followings with their respective board game Instagram accounts. Cook’s @board.game. dad has over 10,000 followers and LeBaron’s @the_board_game_ambassador has almost 3,000 followers. Both Cook and LeBaron’s accounts started out of pure love for gaming with their families and turned into something more.
“Joining a board game meetup group in spring of 2018 was one of the best things I’ve ever done,” LeBaron says. “I gained a delightful community of friends who have become a huge part of my life. I am known for welcoming family, friends and strangers who might become friends to the hobby, which is kind of how I ended up choosing the name ‘The Board Game Ambassador’ for all of my social media handles.”
Like Patriquin, Smith and Heagy, LeBaron lauds the value of interactive play time. “I’ve had so many people come to community game day events and tell me afterwards how much it has helped them to get out of their shell, make new friends and socialize more with old friends,” she shared.
In fact, LeBaron and Cook became friends in real life after realizing they lived in the same area and met at a board game event. Cook’s Instagram account, @board.game.dad, has continued to grow since he started it in 2020. “Gaming is a fun escape for me,” he says. “I don’t do this for a living, it’s just something that I enjoy doing in my spare time. We have family game nights, and I play Dungeons and Dragons with a few different groups, so it’s been a hobby that has been incredible for me.”
Cook’s involvement in the local gaming community has been an enriching addition to his life. “Everyone is friendly and welcoming and ready to teach their favorite new games. It’s growing slowly but surely, and more and more people are coming out to game days to play. It’s a great opportunity to meet new people, share new games and connect with other gamers in the area.”
As for families who are interested in getting into gaming together, Cook shares some advice.
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“The
most appealing part for me is the opportunity to get together with friends for a night of fun and laughter. It doesn’t even so much matter what games we play, just that we have this excuse to regularly see each other.”
—Jacob Smith, founder of Vancouver, WA Board Game Community Facebook page
Vancouver Family Magazine has been covering Southwest Washington news, events, recreation, health, education and more since 2003. We connect local families to the people, places, ideas and organizations that help them thrive . . . like your business!
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“Pick a day of the week for board game night and stick to it. ‘7:00 on Thursday, we’re playing a game!’ Start with games that you might already have or look for games at your local retailers that might be fun,” he suggests.
No matter if you are just getting into gaming as a family or have been a board game enthusiast for years, there’s so much to explore. Check out a local board game event or start a game night with your family at home. “Bored” no more!
Catherine Stacks is a writer, editor and content manager living in Clark County. She earned her M.A. in journalism at the University of Southern California and her B.A. in Communications at Washington State University. After starting her career in Southern California, she moved back to Washington in 2021. She enjoys frequenting local restaurants and exploring what the area has to offer with her family.
www.VancouverFamilyMagazine.com Learn more about advertising with us at vancouverfamilymagazine. com/advertise
GAME SHOPS IN VANCOUVER:
BatCave Games
13215 SE Mill Plain Blvd #C9, Vancouver, WA 98684
Phone: 360-980-8138
Open 7 days a week batcave.games
CCGHouse Games
3925 NE 72nd Ave., Ste 108 Vancouver, WA 98661
360-891-0866
Open 7 days a week ccghouse.com
Contrarian’s Game Café 14313 NE 20th Ave., Ste A112, Vancouver, WA 98686 360-433-2914
Open 7 days a week contrariangaming.com
Dice Age Games
10411 NE Fourth Plain Blvd., Ste 127, Vancouver, WA 98662
360-772-8967
Open 7 days a week diceagegames.com
Fate & Fury Games and Pub 11023 NE Burton Rd., Vancouver, WA 98682
360-433-9444
Open 7 days a week facebook.com/fateandfurygames
Wayward City Games
8050 E Mill Plain Blvd., Vancouver, WA 98664 360-433-9739
Open 7 days a week waywardcitygames.com
Calendar
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Events are subject to change. Please contact organization directly to confirm.
Check out our website for even more local events.
1 SATURDAY
Clark College Jazz Festival at Clark College, 1933 Fort Vancouver Way, Vancouver Home of one of the largest jazz festivals in Southwest Washington for over 60 years! Groups perform to an esteemed panel of adjudicators made up of renowned jazz educators and performers for the privilege of returning to perform in the evening finals competition. On the last evening of the festival, one band from the entire festival is selected to receive the coveted Sweepstakes Trophy, a tradition which has been passed down since 1963. 9 am-10 pm
Columbia Play Project presents Wiggles & Giggles: Charlie Williams, The Noise Guy at Kiggins Theatre 1011 Main St., Vancouver. Charlie Williams, better known as “The Noise Guy” is a master of sound effects, vocal humor and high-energy entertainment, with hilarious sound effects and stories packed with humor. Tickets $12 (age 2 and under free) at kigginstheatre.com. Two shows: 10:30 am & 1 pm
Hough Hoedown at Vancouver Hilton, 301 W 6th St., Vancouver Boots, Bangles & Bow Ties: Buffet dinner, live and silent auction, benefitting Hough Foundation. Tickets $85-$95 at houghfoundation.org/hoedown. 5-10 pm
2 SUNDAY
Bingo with Clark County Veterans Assistance Center at Vancouver Elks Lodge, 11605 SE McGillivray Blvd., Vancouver. 3-5 pm
6 THURSDAY
They Want Our Rhythm, but Not Our Blues: African American Innovation through Pop Culture at O.O. Howard House 750 Anderson St., Vancouver. Reflecting on music, sports, language, food, and even hair, speaker LaToya Brackett will call audiences in beyond the rhythm to recognize the blues that made African American popular culture. It serves as a guide
to appreciating the art of Black pop culture by understanding how and why African American culture was created, and when and where it appears across multiple platforms of popular culture—never without a unique artisan style. 6-8 pm
7 FRIDAY
All You Need is Love . . . & Chocolate! in Downtown Camas. Chocolate treats, art shows, candy themed activities, after hours shopping, prizes and more. 5-8 pm
Family Valentine’s Ball at Pearson Airfield Historic Hangar, 1115 E 5th St., Vancouver. Treat your child to a memorable evening of music and dancing at the Historic Hangar at Pearson Air Museum. This is an opportunity for everyone to celebrate the love of their birth, adopted or chosen family in a fun, welcoming environment. Tickets $20-$23 at cityofvancouver.us. Two nights, Feb 7-8, 6-8 pm
VSO Chamber Ensemble: The Love of Music at First Presbyterian Church, 4300 Main St., Vancouver. An intimate selection of pops and classical pieces that will surely leave the audience’s hearts brimming with love. Tickets $15-$30 at vancouversymphony. org. 7 pm
MPA Theatre Company presents “Fun Home” at Metropolitan Performing Arts, 6403 E Mill Plain Blvd., Vancouver. Music by Jeanine Tesori, book and lyrics by Lisa Kron, based on the graphic novel by Alison Bechdel. Playing Feb 7-23, showtimes vary.
The Soul of Broadway: Impossible Dreams starring Terron Brooks at Columbia Theatre, 1231 Vandercook Way, Longview Bringing Broadway to audiences in a fresh new way, Brooks reinterprets your favorite classic and contemporary Broadway songs. A two-time NAACP Award and Ovation Award nominee, Brooks is best known for portraying Eddie Kendricks in NBC’s Emmy Awardwinning mini-series “The Temptations” and star of Broadway’s “Lion King” as Simba
and “Hairspray” as Seaweed. Tickets $22.50$60.50 at columbiatheatre.com. 7:30 pm
Oregon Children’s Theatre presents “Spider”—The Impact Tour Edition at New Expressive Works, 810 SE Belmont St., Portland. “Baby Spiderman KILLED EVIL Spider!” blows up on YouTube Kids. A rogue program escapes the Simulation, in a video game called Awakenings. And a choir prepares to sing with one voice. When a school shooting reveals the delicate web connecting these events, the people tangled within it start to wonder: who’s to blame? Tickets $15-$20 at oct.org/spider. Playing Feb 7-16, showtimes vary.
8 SATURDAY
Annual Black History Month Fashion Show at Clark County Event Center, 17402 NE Delfel Rd., Ridgefield. A spectacular display of African American fashion and culture, this event showcases the latest trends, designs and styles celebrating the rich heritage of Black history. Be inspired by talented designers and models as they strut their stuff on the runway. Tickets $0-$49.99 at pddbm. org (no door sales). 9 am-6 pm
Columbia Play Project presents Wiggles & Giggles: Ants Ants Ants at Kiggins Theatre 1011 Main St., Vancouver. Portland songwriters Johnny Clay (The Dimes), Dave Gulick and Nat Johnson (Derby) form Ants Ants Ants. With stylistic nods to 1970s-era Sesame Street, School House Rock, and “The Point” by Harry Nilsson, Ants Ants Ants recalls the best elements of a fun and fanciful childhood. Tickets $12 (age 2 and under free) at kigginstheatre.com. Two shows: 10:30 am & 1 pm
Family Valentine’s Ball at Pearson Airfield Historic Hangar, 1115 E 5th St., Vancouver. Treat your child to a memorable evening of music and dancing at the Historic Hangar at Pearson Air Museum. This is an opportunity for everyone to celebrate the love of their birth, adopted or chosen family in a fun,
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welcoming environment. Tickets $20-$23 at cityofvancouver.us. Two nights, Feb 7-8, 6-8 pm
12
WEDNESDAY
Science on Tap: Thigmomorphogenesis at Kiggins Theatre, 1011 Main St., Vancouver. In the Pacific Northwest, our trees grow to be some of the tallest and largest organisms on the planet, and that can be understandably intimidating as you watch them bend and sway during winter weather from your home. Luckily, our trees did not achieve their prominence by accident, and this talk, titled “Thigmomorphogenesis, or Why Most Trees Don’t Fall Over,” will explain what the trees are doing, how they react to their environment, and what you can do to make sure your trees are safe. Tickets $15-$45 at kigginstheatre. com. 7 pm
14 FRIDAY
Valentine’s Dance Party Friday Fun Night at Kids Club Fun & Fitness, 13914 NE 3rd Ct., Vancouver. Glow dance party, Valentine’s crafts, gymnastics time and more. Admission $39.99.More details at kidsclub4fun.com/ events. 6:30-10 pm
15 SATURDAY
Bad Art Night at Camas Public Library, 625 NE 4th Ave., Camas. Are you an artist? No? Well, great! For Bad Art Night, you don’t need to be! All you need to do is create a terrible piece of art. Here at Bad Art Night, let go of the pressure of making something perfect; instead, let your creativity run wild and have fun! We will have various materials and objects you can use as a part of your artwork, but any additional items you feel would make your artwork truly heinous are welcome! There will be an hour of creation, followed by a 30-minute Bad Art Gallery, where we will view each other’s work and vote on the worst art piece of the night. Designed for adults. 5:30-7 pm
Vancouver Lightning Arena Soccer Home Game at Clark County Indoor Sports 16311 NE 15th St., Vancouver. Watch semi-pro athletes battle teams from the Men’s Western Indoor Soccer League. All admission proceeds benefit youth soccer club scholarships. Tickets $12 adults, $8 kids under age 18. 6 pm
16 SUNDAY
Lunar New Year Gala at Skyview High School, 1300 NW 139th St., Vancouver. Vancouver Chinese Association (VCA) hosts the 2025 Lunar New Year Gala with live performance by local artists, kids games and DIY crafts, art and calligraphy show and complimentary Chinese light meal. Tickets $10-$15 (age 3 and under free) at vca-wa.org.
Light meal starts at 5 pm, followed by live performance from 7-9 pm.
20 THURSDAY
Industry Fair at Battle Ground High School, 300 W Main St., Battle Ground. Learn about apprenticeships and jobs in health care, education, manufacturing, technology, construction, finance, hospitality, retail, transportation and more. Many employers are hiring–bring your resume! This event is free, everyone is welcome and childcare will be available. 5-7 pm
21 FRIDAY
Jurassic Quest at Clark County Event Center, 17402 NE Delfel Rd., Ridgefield There’s no better place to make pter-iffic memories playing with adorable baby dinos, excavating fossils, or even training a raptor while being surrounded by behemoths like sky-scraping Spinosaurus and, the King himself, Tyrannosaurus rex! Tickets $22-$36 at jurassicquest.com. Happening Feb 21-23, times vary.
Whiskey, Wine, and Wheelchairs at RV Inn Style Resorts Convention Center, 7607 NE 26th Ave., Vancouver. All proceeds benefit A Caring Closet. Tickets $95 at acaringcloset. org. 5:30-8 pm
Magenta Theater presents “Jeeves at Sea” at Magenta Theater, 1108 Main St., Vancouver. Set sail for laughter as Bertie Wooster revels in life aboard the Vanderley yacht. Bertie is the pampered guest of the lively Lady Stella (very fetching profile), accompanied, as always, by his peerless valet, Jeeves. If only Bertie’s pal Crumpet hadn’t assaulted a prince. In the blink of an eye, Bertie is masquerading as a romance novelist, Crumpet’s posing as his own longlost twin, and a sinister foreign count is challenging Bertie to a duel. Will this madcap case of mistaken identities end in Bertie’s doom—or worse, his marriage? Have no fear; Jeeves will sort it all out. Tickets $28 at magentatheater.com. Playing Feb 21- Mar 9, showtimes vary.
22 SATURDAY
Columbia Play Project presents Wiggles & Giggles: JW Stevens Magic at Kiggins Theatre 1011 Main St., Vancouver. John W Stevens’s magic is full of family friendly humor, excitement, and will leave you mystified! Tickets $12 (age 2 and under free) at kigginstheatre.com. Two shows: 10:30 am & 1 pm
Vancouver Symphony Orchestra presents Berlioz’s Symphonie Fantastique at Skyview Concert Hall 1300 NW 139th St., Vancouver. This program features two fine symphonies, beginning with Mozart’s Symphony No. 38, known universally
as the “Prague” followed by one of the largest early romantic symphonies, the “Symphonie Fantastique” by Hector Berlioz. Tickets $15$60 at vancouversymphony.org. Happening Feb 22-23, times vary.
23 SUNDAY
Rainy Months Series: Alex ZerbeThe Zaniac at Columbia Theatre, 1231 Vandercook Way, Longview. With the energy of 1,000 suns, Alex Zerbe moves like a rubber band from one end of the stage to the other. Beatboxing, juggling, dancing, singing, music and magic are just a few of the things that led Piers Morgan of America’s Got Talent to call this physical comedian, “The total package.” Tickets $11.50 at columbiatheatre.com. 2 pm
26 WEDNESDAY
Poetry Street PNW – A Poetry Open Mic Where Every Voice is Heard at Camas Public Library, 625 NE 4th Ave., Camas. Read aloud your original or favorite work, and listen to monthly featured poets. All ages welcome. 6:15-7:45 pm
28 FRIDAY
Parenting & Play Community at St. Andrew Nature Preschool, 5607 NE Gher Rd., Vancouver. Free community gatherings for families with young children. 2nd Fridays: playgroup / 4th Fridays: enrichment class, childcare (for ages 12 mo-5 yrs) provided with RSVP. February 2025 enrichment class topic: Raising Secure Kids. More details at preschoolstandrew.org/resources. 10-11:30 am
Journey Theater presents “Annie” at Fort Vancouver High School, 5700 E 18th St., Vancouver. Annie is determined to find the parents who abandoned her years ago on the doorstep of a New York City Orphanage that is run by the cruel, embittered Miss Hannigan. With the help of the other girls in the orphanage, Annie escapes to the wondrous world of NYC. In adventure after fun-filled adventure, Annie foils Miss Hannigan’s evil machinations . . . and even befriends President Franklin Delano Roosevelt! She finds a new home and family in billionaire, Oliver Warbucks, his personal secretary, Grace Farrell, and a lovable mutt named Sandy. Tickets $17-$21 at journeytheater.org. Playing Feb 28-Mar 8, showtimes vary.
Monster Jam at Moda Center, 1 N Center Ct St., Portland. Monster Jam ® is the most action-packed motorsports event on four wheels. At the event, you will witness world-class driver athletes and the most recognizable trucks tear up the dirt and compete in intense competitions of speed and skill. Tickets $25-$32 at monsterjam.com. Happening Feb 28-Mar 2, times vary.
