Vancouver Family Magazine January 2018

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January 2018

www.VancouverFamilyMagazine.com

Running Start:

Right for Your Teen?

Best of 2018 W I N N E R S

Goal-Setting

Success in the New Year &

BEYOND

ANNUAL EDUCATION GUIDE

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Vancouver Family Magazine • www.vancouverfamilymagazine.com • January 2018

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Vancouver Family Magazine • www.vancouverfamilymagazine.com • January 2018

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contents

January ‘18

12

FEATURE ARTICLES

12

Best of Vancouver 2018 Winners of our annual Best of Vancouver Awards

20

Goal Setting Success in the New Year and Beyond Achieve this year’s goals with these tips for success

24

Running Start: Right for Your Teen?

The benefits of Running Start are many, but is it a viable option for your student?

28

Education Guide Annual Private and Public Education Guide

IN EVERY ISSUE

20

6

Editor’s Notes

8

The New Domesticity Establishing a welcoming home

10

Bit of HiStory Vancouver’s diverse heritage

32

Calendar of Events & Activities

24 ON THE WEB • Enter for a chance to win tickets to upcoming Oregon Children’s Theatre productions • Subscribe to Vancouver Family Magazine’s monthly e-newsletter • Editor’s Picks

10 4

Vancouver Family Magazine • www.vancouverfamilymagazine.com • January 2018

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We are Vancouver. We volunteer!

www.cityofvancouver.us/volunteer cityvolunteer@cityofvancouver.us 360-487-8344 Vancouver Family Magazine • www.vancouverfamilymagazine.com • January 2018

5

EDITOR'S NOTES

Photo: Scarlette Richards – scarlette.squarespace.com

www.VancouverFamilyMagazine.com

Educating the Whole Child I recently read an article by Matt Barnum in “The Atlantic” reporting results of a new

Volume 17, Issue 1 Publisher Julie Buchan Julie@vancouverfamilymagazine.com (360) 882-7762

study suggesting that “teachers who are good at raising test scores are worse at making kids happy in class.” The results weren’t altogether conclusive—the data does make space for teachers producing both high test scores and quality student happiness levels. But the study highlights the sometimes conflicting interests of performance and contentment.

Editor Nikki Klock Nikki@vancouverfamilymagazine.com (360) 882-7762

Graphic Designer

I-Shüan Warr Ishuan@vancouverfamilymagazine.com

Ad Designer

Great care and skill is required to achieve one without forfeiting the other. But as parents and educators, our responsibility is to the whole child. The best educators and the best parents feed souls, even

Philip Nerat Philip@vancouverfamilymagazine.com

Contributing Writers

Natalie Hyland, Julianna Lawson, Pat Jollota, Kristyn Morgan

with calculus, historical literature or physics on the menu. And they recognize that, unlike scientific study data, the results of their efforts

sales@vancouverfamilymagazine.com

always produce the results they seek. But when educators and parents

Vancouver Family Magazine is published monthly by Vancouver Kidz Magazine, LLC

are not always quantifiable, and their highest quality efforts won’t

give everything to enrich the lives of the kids in their stewardship, the result they can count on is their own satisfaction and pride in caring for

Ad Sales

Address: PO Box 820264 Vancouver, WA 98682 Tel: 360-882-7762

the next generation of teachers and parents.

Learn more on your quest to educate and parent with the whole child in mind on pages 24 and 28.

Copyright 2002-2017. All rights reserved.

No portion of Vancouver Family Magazine may be reproduced without the written permission from the publisher.

Vancouver Kidz Magazine, LLC and staff do not recommend or endorse any service, product, or content represented in this magazine or on our website.

The sole purpose of this publication is to provide information on available services and/or products. It is the consumer’s responsibility to verify the accuracy of information given. Vancouver Kidz Magazine, LLC, and/or Julie Buchan and Nikki Klock and staff do not assume and disclaim any liability to any party for any loss or damage caused by error or omission in this magazine or on our website. We reserve the right to refuse service to anyone.

Nikki Klock, Editor nikki@vancouverfamilymagazine.com

On the Cover: Chelsea B., of Vancouver, loves to dance and travel the world with her family.

Last summer she visited Germany, France, England and Kenya.

Photo courtesy of Marie Pham Photography mariephamphotography.com 360-907-6732

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Vancouver Family Magazine • www.vancouverfamilymagazine.com • January 2018

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Vancouver Family Magazine • www.vancouverfamilymagazine.com • January 2018

7

THE NEW DOMESTICITY

the

Welcome^ Home^

NEW DOMESTICITY

1

By Julianna Lawson “Although it was considered by many to be a poor home, the worn pine floors shone with a fresh scrubbing, gingham curtains danced merrily in the windows, a hearty fire blazed in the corner, and the simple dishes were stacked neatly in the cupboard, ready to serve the fragrant bread just pulled from the oven. A picture of order and peace pervaded, welcoming all who stepped from the wintry outdoors across the inviting threshold.”

Similar scenes have appeared in many of my favorite books over the years. The above, while spun from my own imagination, is more likely a mental mash-up of several long-cherished tales. Tucked among the pages of many such old-fashioned stories is a quiet historical testimony of the value of keeping order in the home. This order shouldn’t be stringent, however. Rather, as expressed in the above mini-fiction, it is welcoming and pleasing to the senses.

As we embark on a New Year, it is fitting to glance back and glean from those who have proved the wisdom of decluttering, simplifying, and organizing. Shelly Kirgiss, Colleen Adent, and Melissa Eyster, all local homemakers, find great joy and peace in creating order in their homes. Each woman recalls especially admiring the homes of the grandmother figures in their lives.

Kirgiss of Ridgefield shares, “We had a wonderful friend who came into our lives when I was about seven. Her house was always tidy and beautiful. It felt safe to me and made me comfortable.”

Likewise, Eyster recalls, “I used to love to look in my grandma’s cupboards and admire the way her dishes were so neatly placed.

Her house was always peaceful.” Adent cherishes a similar memory: “My grandparents had matching Corelle dishes for everyday use, including the matching juice glasses. I always loved putting dishes away, because once all the glasses were in their designated spot, they formed such lovely lines in the cabinets!”

friends and family for whom they create this order. Let’s consider a few simple guidelines for establishing a home of welcome.

Clear the Clutter

If the mere suggestion promotes panic, fear not. Eyster, owner of OrganizerPro in Vancouver, encourages her clients to simplify their scope: “Start small. Choose a small area and organize it.

Come up with a simple system to keep it organized, practice until it becomes habit, then expand, one small area at a time.” She also recommends cleaning immediately (“Instead of having big cleaning binges, clean right away”) and creatively (“Use commercials! Tell yourself you get to indulge in that favorite TV show as long as you utilize commercials for mini projects or tidying up”).

While sorting your possessions, Kirgiss suggests running them through the following test: “Is it functional? Does it bring me joy?

Will someone truly want it in the future?” She adds, “This helps me tremendously to be able to get rid of things. If I don’t look at it and love it or have a sweet memory attached, I don’t keep it.”

Collaborate with Others

If home organization sounds overwhelming, Adent advises, “Enlist the help of a friend. Having an objective third party makes assessing stuff much easier!” Kirgiss adds, “If you aren’t an organizer, don’t hesitate to ask for help! People who enjoy it, really enjoy it.”

Eyster also recommends working toward the goal of a garage sale or fundraiser when getting rid of items in the home: “My children are much happier to part with their toys and clothes when they know those items will be going to a good destination. I often engage my kids by letting them help me decide where the items should go.” The Eysters recently had the privilege of donating garage sale items to help family friends defray the cost of overseas adoption.

These women have long since created their own beautiful homes.

Yet perfection is not their goal. Rather, the focus is on blessing the

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Vancouver Family Magazine • www.vancouverfamilymagazine.com • January 2018

continued on next page

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Celebrate the Benefits

Whether your home is large or small, celebrate the benefits of living in visually calm spaces. Kirgiss knows she functions “much better in a tidy space. When there are piles and clutter I have a hard time concentrating.” She concludes, “Decluttering helps me enjoy my home and feel better about having people share it.”

Adent says, “I am more efficient with my time when I know where to find things,” and Eyster adds, “Organization allows me to decide how my time will best be used. I gain peace of mind and I feel a sense of calm when I am in a tidy environment.”

Adent, a classically trained professional pianist, also enjoys the creative freedom that comes with efficient home-keeping: “I find that I can think more creatively when I’m not surrounded by too much stuff. I easily become overwhelmed by the visual, which distracts me from creative thinking.”

This year, let’s “clear, collaborate, and celebrate” our way toward homes that beckon to those within: “Come! Rest! You are welcome here.”

Julianna Lawson and her husband Jamie live in Vancouver with their four children, ages 12 to 19. Among Julianna’s role models for home tidiness is, alas, Mary Poppins, who—as a fictitious and “practically perfect” magical nanny—has a decidedly unfair organizational advantage.

Vancouver Family Magazine • www.vancouverfamilymagazine.com • January 2018

9

Bit of HiStory

:

By Pat Jollota

In

A new monthly column celebrating the rich history of Clark County In Fort Vancouver’s 19th century glory days of the Hudson’s Bay Company, the trading post was a cosmopolitan spot in the great dense forest. So many races, nationalities and ethnic groups were here, including Chinook, French, Hawaiians, Canadians, that for a time the official language was Wawa, the Chinookian trade jargon.

Fast forward a hundred years or so, and Vancouver’s previously ethnically diverse population had changed to almost exclusively Caucasian. The exceptions were a few Klickitat villages scattered along the Lewis River, an African American blacksmith in Battle Ground, and a black man named Robert Kimbrough who ran a shoe shine and shoe repair business in the Evergreen Hotel.

In February 1942, as the dark clouds of war hung over Europe and Asia, Henry Kaiser announced that he was building a shipyard on the Columbia River. By July of that year, Vancouver’s population of 18,000 had swelled to 85,000. The city’s single verified African American resident had been joined by over 2,000.

Color Blind

ethnically sectioned neighborhoods. By contrast, D..Elwood Caples, Vancouver’s city attorney, made a simple decision as legal counsel for the new Housing Authority: the next people to arrive got the next available housing. The queue was neutral to other considerations. Consequently, Vancouver’s neighborhoods organically grew in diversity as individuals and families of various races immigrated to Southwest Washington. Kids of all races went to the same schools, and people attended the same churches.

As World War II drew to a close, Caples and the Housing Authority reviewed the residential structures they had built, and found that while some were good, sturdy houses, such as those still standing in 4th Plain Village, Fruit Valley, and Harney Hill, most were temporary houses on wooden foundations. Caples dubbed these areas potential slums, and proceeded to purchase the land with Housing Authority funds and dismantle the defective houses.

Then Caples did something that was far ahead of his time.

As the houses came down, and families were displaced, Caples made sure that

Vancouver was bursting its boundaries, so a Housing Authority was formed to provide living space for the incoming residents.

Portland formed a comparable coalition to build homes for their shipyard workers.

However, there the similarities between the sister cities ended.

In Portland, housing availability and location was determined by race, creating

D. Elwood Caples in 1992 or 1993, standing in front of the VHA office building named for him. Photo courtesy of Pat Jollota from her book, “Legendary Locals of Vancouver” (Arcadia Publishing, 2012).

10

Vancouver Family Magazine • www.vancouverfamilymagazine.com • January 2018

the residents of color found housing in every neighborhood in Clark County. In an inspiring grass roots effort, teams of volunteers, black and white, went door to door in neighborhoods that would be gaining their first black residents.

The volunteers answered questions and calmed concerns. The result of this unusual community effort from decades ago is that today in Clark County, we have no ethnic neighborhoods, no ghetto, and no barrio. Residents of Clark County often take this exceptional circumstance for granted.

This month as we honor Dr. Martin Luther King’s fight for civil rights, let us draw on the example of inclusion set by the Hudson’s Bay Company Fort and the Vancouver Housing Authority in previous centuries, to continue enriching our communities through diversity.

Pat Jollota retired from the Los Angeles Police Department and came to Vancouver to find a new career in historic preservation. She was curator of education at the Clark County Historical Museum for 22 years, while almost concurrently serving for 20 years on the Vancouver City Council.

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Vancouver Family Magazine • www.vancouverfamilymagazine.com • January 2018

11

Feature: Best of Vancouver 2018

Best of 2018

THE VOTES ARE IN.

Vancouver Family Magazine is proud to announce the winners of our 10th annual Best of Vancouver awards, as voted by you, our readers! Take a peek at who nabbed top honors.

BEST

8700 NE Vancouver Mall Dr. Vancouver, WA 98662 360-448-4100

*Best of Vancouver 10th year running!

www.cinetopia.com

BEST

Drawing moviegoers from far beyond its Vancouver origins, Cinetopia has been perfecting the art of the movie going experience since 2005, and has since grown from one Cascade Park location to 3 additional locations. The luxury and comfort make the classic dinner and a movie date night delightfully unique, with a full restaurant and cozy living room style cinema viewing areas.

Kids Retail Clothing

BEST

Photo Credit: Children’s Place

8700 NE Vancouver Mall Dr. (inside Vancouver Mall) Vancouver, WA 98662 360-891-0069

12

11700 SE 7th St. Vancouver, WA 98683 360-213-2800

Founded in 1969, this national retail company is known for its exceptional, quality clothing. Which is crucial when it comes to keeping clean, sturdy clothes on any 3-year-old.

www.childrensplace.com Vancouver Family Magazine • www.vancouverfamilymagazine.com • January 2018

Pipsqueak Resale Boutique 8700 NE Vancouver Mall Dr. (inside Vancouver Mall) Vancouver, WA 98662 360-597-4715 Finally, a kids’ resale clothing shop at the mall!

Shop hundreds of gently used baby gear and clothing items, with new inventory constantly on arrival.

www.pipsqueakresale.com continued on page 14

Preparing your child to be their best at Our Lady of Lourdes

Catholic School

If you believe a well-rounded education includes spiritual growth and serving others,

come and visit.

Little Blessings Preschool

at Our Lady of Lourdes features language and social enrichment, thematic curriculum, library, music, P.E., and Spanish.

Kindergarten through 5th grade teaches language arts, math, religion, science, social studies, Spanish, P.E., music, library, and technology.

Middle School

prepares students for a college preparatory high school and features electives, service, and other leadership opportunities.

CATHOLIC SCHOOL 4701 NW Franklin Street, Vancouver, WA 98663

www.lourdesvan.org

OPEN HOUSE

January 28th 12-2:30 PM

Vancouver Family Magazine • www.vancouverfamilymagazine.com • January 2018

13

Feature: Best of Vancouver 2018 (cont’d)

BEST

continued from page 12

BEST

STORE

9901 NE 7th Ave Suite A-103 Vancouver, WA 98685 360-909-9744 New on the scene and “not your momma’s thrift store,” Haute Madre touts gently used fun, fresh fashion.

They’ll buy your high quality cast-offs for cash on the spot, and they even offer at-home pickups from Vancouver locations. For those who love to shop and love to party, Haute Madre’s Hazel Dell space also hosts events such as bridal showers, birthday parties and more.

Kid-powered toys that are designed to inspire children’s imagination are the specialty at this mom and pop shop that also hosts “crafternoon” activities, financial literacy workshops for kids, and other special events.

www.kazoodlestoys.com

BEST

www.dizzycastle.com

Photo Credit: Dizzy Castle

Photo Credit: Haute Madre

*Best of Vancouver 10th year running!

www.hautemadre.com

BEST

*Best of Vancouver 10th year running!

13503 SE Mill Plain Blvd. #B-3 Vancouver, WA 98684 360-699-9200

11606 NE 66th St. • Vancouver, WA 98662 360-885-PLAY (7529) Unpredictable weather makes indoor recreation a must in our neck of the woods, especially for kids. Dizzy Castle is a kids’ dream come true, with a whimsical castle, dragon and pirate ship, and dedicated toddler area. Parents are fully cared for too, with tall ceilings to encourage parents to play with their kids, and a lounge/ cafe area for parents’ break time. Because we all know when mommy and daddy aren’t happy, no one’s happy.

mily Dinner Fa

BEST

16615 SE 18th St. Vancouver, WA 98683 360-944-6118 Photo Credit: Big Al’s

Not one, but two full bowling alleys with 42 state-of-the-art bowling lanes, including 12 plush VIP lanes, provide endless hours of entertainment for the whole family. Add a full restaurant, plus an arcade, and it’s no wonder Big Al’s is family night central year round.

www.ilovebigals.com 14

EX

PE R I E NCE

Various Vancouver locations: 360-892-1121 It’s not easy juggling energetic toddlers or moody teenagers while attempting an enjoyable dinner out with the family, but Red Robin has family dining down to a science. The usual crayons and colorable menus are just the beginning: balloons, appearances by Red the Robin, and kid-friendly menu items have transformed the family dining experience in Clark County.

www.redrobin.com

Vancouver Family Magazine • www.vancouverfamilymagazine.com • January 2018

continued on page 16

The

must go on!

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Vancouver Family Magazine • www.vancouverfamilymagazine.com • January 2018

15

Feature: Best of Vancouver 2018 (cont’d)

BEST

continued from page 14

IT'S A TIE!

BEST

BURGER 1525 SE 164th Ave. Vancouver, WA 98683 360-836-5274

Peanut butter pickle bacon burger?

Yes, please! It might be the most unusual burger combo you’ve ever heard, but it also happens to be, well, killer.

Top it off with all the fries you can eat and lots of rock and roll.

Photo Credit: Willem’s on Main

Photo Credit: Hudson’s Bar & Grill

7805 NE Greenwood Dr. Vancouver, WA 98662 360-816-6100

www.willemsonmain.com

www.killerburger.biz

www.hudsonsbarandgrill.com Photo credit: www.killerburger.biz

907 Main St. Vancouver WA 98660 360-258-0989

Willem’s on Main in downtown Vancouver serves “upscale rustic Northwest comfort food with Italian influences” while Hudson’s Bar & Grill (adjoining Heathman Lodge) invites guests to “sample communal plates designed to continue a century-old practice of group dining.” Both set a tone for a special night out.

BEST

*Best of Vancouver 2nd year running!

www.heathenbrewing.com 1109 Washington St., Vancouver, WA 98660 360-836-5255 Whether it’s after a busy day at the office, a back breaking day on the job, or a full day at home with the kids, guys in Clark County are unwinding at Heathen Brewing Feral Public House in downtown Vancouver.

FERAL PUBLIC HOUSE Photo credit: heathenbrewing.com

BEST

www.rustygrape.com 16

Rusty Grape Vineyard 16712 NE 219th St. Battle Ground, WA 98604 360-606-4303 When gals get together, there’s bound to be lots of gabbing, lots of laughter, and lots of fun. Gals in Clark County flock to rural Battle Ground’s Rusty Grape for all of the above.

Vancouver Family Magazine • www.vancouverfamilymagazine.com • January 2018

continued on page 18

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Vancouver Family Magazine • www.vancouverfamilymagazine.com • January 2018

17

Feature: Best of Vancouver 2018 (cont’d)

BEST

continued from page 16

BEST

PIZZA PLACE Photo credit: www.blindonion.com

Various Vancouver locations 360-597-4898

www.blindonion.com

BEST

A Vancouver favorite for years, with all the traditional pizza combinations, plus some of the most unique recipes around.

Spa Salon

1503 NE 78th St. Vancouver, WA 98665 360-573-4806 Combine hair and nail care in Utopia’s salon, with massage, body treatments and skin care in the spa, and you’ve got full service pampering from head to toe in Hazel Dell.

*Best of Vancouver 10th year running!

ESTHER SHORT PARK

www.utopiadayspasalon.com

Between Columbia and Esther Streets, and 6th and 8th Streets, downtown Vancouver

BEST

Traditionally considered the oldest public square in the state of Washington, Esther Short Park truly is the jewel of Vancouver.

Throughout the year, crowds flock to events here such as movies in the park, the Recycled Arts Festival, and Vancouver Farmers Market. It’s also the scene of choice for cooling off in the coolest water feature in town.

y l i m a F FITNESS

FIRSTENBURG COMMUNITY CENTER

Photo credit: Vancouver’s Downtown Association

700 NE 136th Ave. Vancouver, WA 98684 360-487-7001 Recent focus on fit lifestyles rather than binge dieting and cram workouts have made fitness a family affair, and Firstenburg Community Center caters to this healthy way of life for every member of the family. Swimming pool play, open gyms, special events, pool and ping pong tables, top of the line fitness equipment and more provide Clark County families with hours of fun family fitness.

www.cityofvancouver.us/firstenburg 18

Vancouver Family Magazine • www.vancouverfamilymagazine.com • January 2018

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Vancouver Family Magazine • www.vancouverfamilymagazine.com • January 2018

19

Feature: Goal Setting Success in the New Year and Beyond

t i ng Goal-Set

s s e c c Su nd w Year & in t he Ne

B eyo

“You are never too old to set a new goal or to dream a new dream.”

- C.S. Lewis

By Kristyn Morgan

It’s the beginning

of a new year and a time when many of us set new goals for improvement. There is something about the idea of starting out a new year striving to be our better selves that often leads us to set lofty resolutions.

Sadly, however, often by the end of the first month our goals have fallen by the wayside. How many of us have started the day on January 1 with visions of getting organized, losing weight, or finishing that college degree, only to find ourselves right back to where we started by the time February rolls around? I’ll admit I’ve done this many times, but it doesn’t have to be the case. In an effort to determine how we can be successful at achieving our New Year’s resolutions (or any goal for that matter), I spoke with some local individuals who have experience setting and accomplishing goals of their own.

I was inspired by a local mother/daughter duo Kallie and Lilia Conrad of Washougal.

Lilia (age 9) has grown up watching her mother Kallie set and achieve a number of running goals including running 16 half marathons (some while pregnant!). This past year Kallie determined she wanted to run a mile in less than 8 minutes. “It is something I was able to do prior to having my fourth baby,” she says, “but something I’ve struggled to reach since suffering

20

an injury during birth.” By taking it one month at a time and developing a positive mindset, Kallie recently achieved this goal.

Because of her mother’s example, Lilia decided to set a goal of her own this last year. As Lilia said, “My mom likes to run and hike and I want to be like her.”

In that spirit, Lilia set out to hike 100 miles over the course of several months. Along the way she learned it wasn’t always easy, but with her mother’s example and encouragement she succeeded. Kallie’s advice to supporting kids in their own goals? “Help them have fun reaching their goal, encourage them along the way. Ask them what their goals are and help them make a plan.” Clearly this strategy worked for Lilia.

Having a plan is a marker of success for achieving any goal. Marnie Starrett, a local Certified Professional Christian Life Coach offers advice for creating such a plan:

Understand your “why.”

What is your reason for setting the goal in the first place? Without a clear “why” it may be hard to stick to your plan when your motivation is lacking, or life gets hectic. It’s important to keep your reason for wanting to achieve your goal at the forefront of your mind. Tape your goal to your mirror, set it

Vancouver Family Magazine • www.vancouverfamilymagazine.com • January 2018

as your screen saver on your phone, or journal your reasons for setting the goal and refer to them often.

Set an achievable time frame.

Too often we set unreasonable goals and then get discouraged when we can’t achieve them in the time frame we have determined for ourselves. “Many people set New Year’s resolutions thinking they’ll do this one giant thing in a year, but don’t have a realistic time frame. Then February 1 rolls around and the goal hasn’t been acted on yet,” says Starrett. To prevent this, Starrett suggests breaking down your goal into monthly, weekly, and daily actions.

Reward yourself along the journey.

It’s important to recognize the small wins along the way to achieving your final goal.

If you have a goal to lose 50 pounds, reward yourself for every 5 pounds lost so you recognize your progress. Lilia Conrad marked her success by tracking her miles hiked on a chart so she could see how far she had come. Her mother Kallie, marked her own progress at running a mile in under 8 minutes by testing herself once a month and noting her improvement. continued on page 22

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Vancouver Family Magazine • www.vancouverfamilymagazine.com • January 2018

21

Feature: Goal Setting Success in the New Year and Beyond (cont’d)

continued from page 22

Find someone to be accountable to.

As Starrett says, “Have a cheerleader in your corner.” This can be a relative, friend, or a life coach such as Starrett. “A life coach will help with accountability,” she says. “The coach is a safe person for the person being coached to have those tough questions asked, along with cheering them on to success.” For LiIia, her mom became her own personal cheerleader by writing her “good job” notes and hiking alongside her.

Starrett is a front lines observer to the benefits that come from successful goal setting. “My mission is to work with people who are struggling to find purpose in life due to distractions and transitions; helping them to discover new possibilities to move forward with purpose.” As people set and achieve their goals, the path to selfimprovement becomes more clear.

It’s important to keep in mind that there will be days when it seems you are not making progress and you can get discouraged.

Often we may stumble or feel like our goals are out of reach. For times like this, Kallie offers some advice, “The closer I got to my goal the more I began to see how I needed to show the same encouragement and kindness to myself as I would my daughter and sons or a friend stretching themselves.” Keeping a positive attitude and being mindful of our progress will increase our likelihood of success.

Starrett agrees. “It’s important to be kind to ourselves,” she says. “We would not ever let a best friend talk to themselves the way we sometimes talk to ourselves in our heads. We need to become a better friend to ourselves.”

With a positive mindset and a clear plan in place, the beginning of the New Year can be a terrific time to set and achieve any

number of goals that we have in mind. The beauty of achieving one goal is that it will often inspire us to set other goals, creating a snowball effect on our own personal improvement. The Conrads have certainly found that to be the case. Since achieving the goals they set last year, Kallie is now working toward running a half marathon in under two hours and wants to start a local running club for young people. Inspired by her mother, Lilia wants to hike 365 miles next year and also start her own business.

If their recent history is any indication, their chances of success are great.

Kristyn Morgan and her husband, David, have spent the last 20 years raising their five sons and a daughter in Vancouver. She believes in the motto “Striving to be better while keeping it real,” and can be found blogging about navigating the parenting waters at morganhouseofmystery@blogspot.com or on Instagram at @morganlifeadvice.

“We would not ever let a best friend talk to themselves the way we sometimes talk to ourselves in our heads. We need to become a better friend to ourselves.”

- Marnie Starrett

22

Vancouver Family Magazine • www.vancouverfamilymagazine.com • January 2018

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800.955.2318 Vancouver Family Magazine • www.vancouverfamilymagazine.com • January 2018

23

Feature: Running Start: Right for Your Teen?

Running Start:

Right for Your Teen?

2018 Clark College Running Start Information Nights: An opportunity for current high school sophomores and juniors (and their parents) to learn more about Running Start, including eligibility requirements,deadlines and more.

January 24 or February 28 or March 7 (all Wednesdays) 7-8 pm at Clark College Gym (O’Connell Sports Complex) (These meetings are optional and identical—do not attend more than one.)

Visit

By Natalie Hyland

F

www.clark.edu/runningstart for more information.

For teens, the final two years of high school are fraught with questions about future education, career plans, and launching into adult life. For parents of these teens, these same years require a delicate balance of support and encouragement tempered by incremental freedoms. Striking that balance starts with becoming acquainted with the educational opportunities available to your child in high school and beyond. One of these valuable opportunities that can have long lasting effects is Running Start, a program that offers qualifying high school students the chance to earn both high school and college credits during high school. The cost benefits alone make it a tantalizing option, but is it a viable one for your student?

Angelia Riveira, On-Campus Running Start Advisor at Central Washington University, says, “Running Start students tend to be above average.” Students in the program are mature, independent, self-starting individuals who desire to get ahead in ways they can only imagine. Here are a few questions to consider as you and your child discuss their suitability for Running Start.

Is your student a mature and independent learner?

Riveira says that the bulk of the responsibility falls on the student’s shoulders when it comes to the Running

24

Start program. Parents “need to take into consideration the maturity level of their student,” she says. “It’s important that students can be independent.” Still, she notes, plenty of academic support is available through both college and high school resources, so students can feel free to explore the possibilities.

Brandy Hutton, a 2016 graduate of Lower Columbia College (LCC) chose Running Start after feeling that her high school classes weren’t challenging her or offering her enough variety. “I took of lot of different interesting classes [through Running Start],” says Hutton, now a psychology major at Eastern Washington University. “It really helped me make sure that psychology was what I wanted to do.”

Community colleges like LCC and Clark College offer a wide variety of classes from pre-college math, to advanced chemistry, to theater and advanced art.

Does your student crave freedom?

With the Running Start program, your student has the ability to create his own schedule and make (most of) his own rules.

If he wants to wait until noon to go to class, he can. If he wants to be done with classes by 2 p.m. he can. If your student feels like he needs a day off, guess what? He can do that too. There is no one to watch over and monitor his attendance and grades daily. But while students are protected by the Family Educational Rights and Privacy

Vancouver Family Magazine • www.vancouverfamilymagazine.com • January 2018

Act (FERPA), which states that a student has the right to sign off on who can have access to academic information, Riveira reminds parents that students’ college course semester grades are sent to their high school, which parents can access.

The program also eases the student into the transition from high school to college life, without actually living on her own.

Central Washington University student, Leanne Fraker, says participating in Running Start lessened the impact of moving away from home to university.

Fraker, who now studies public relations says, “It was really cool to branch out and not be with all the same kids I’ve known forever.” She also says that the mandatory meetings each quarter with a Running Start advisor helped to prepare her for selecting classes on her own during her first year at Central Washington University.

Is your student seeking more than a typical high school experience?

High school isn’t the right fit for everyone, Riveira points out, but it is possible for those who still want to be involved in their high school while attending off-site college courses to do so. Washington state law requires high schools to allow Running Start students full participation in clubs, sports and high school events. While continued on page 26

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Vancouver Family Magazine • www.vancouverfamilymagazine.com • January 2018

25

Feature: Running Start: Right for Your Teen? (cont’d)

continued from page 24

some students opt out of this participation, Fraker stresses, “It’s important to still be involved with your high school.” She was involved with sports and decorating committees at her school. Those events kept her in touch with friends and her school community.

Michelle Trekas, parent of a current Running Start student, admits she was initially worried about her daughter missing out on the high school experience, but says the Running Start program connected her with more students around her maturity level.

Many students today work while attending school. Running Start allows students a flexible class schedule to arrange around work schedules, rather than the other way around. Denise Huffman, mother of two former Running Start students, says her daughter not only worked over 20 hours a week and took 15+ credits, she also participated in 4-H, Washington High School Equestrian Teams (WAHSET), and still had time to sleep.

Is saving money something you could benefit from?

Yearly expenses for schools like Eastern Washington University and Central Washington University can reach over $22,000 when you add in living expenses, books, and other mandatory fees. Running Start students attend college tuition-free

while most are also still living at home. The only expenses students are responsible for are credit overloads and books. Rachel Carroll, one of four siblings to complete the program, estimates that her family saved approximately $65,000 in tuition alone.

Huffman—whose daughter is on track to become a trauma nurse—estimates over $20,000 in savings which she can put toward future years of schooling.

Most schools, including Clark College, offer an Associate’s Degree upon completion of the program, but not every school does. Schools like Central Washington University, an accredited fouryear university, instead offer students a chance to fulfill up to two years’ worth of general education courses so they can dive right into their chosen major courses.

If the student decides to leave the college after two years, their credits follow them to most universities of their choice. Even in cases when credits from a Running Start program don’t transfer to the higher education institution of choice, students often report a satisfaction with the life experience gained undergoing collegeappropriate study habits, class sizes, culture, and workload.

What if my teen struggles with the program?

Riveira stresses the fact that most students thrive in the program. Those who don’t, typically don’t for one of two

Clark College in Vancouver is home to one of the largest Running Start programs in Washington state.

Since its inaugural year in fall 1992, 1,819 students have graduated with two-year degrees as Running Start students. An additional 4,192 Running Start students graduated high school before completing all requirements for a two-year degree, but went on to complete the remaining requirements to receive a two-year degree from 26

Vancouver Family Magazine • www.vancouverfamilymagazine.com • January 2018

reasons. The first is a lack of maturity.

With the responsibility of their education on their own shoulders, some students begin to skip classes and stop doing their work. The second is problems outside of school, such as personal, family or work strains. Whatever is causing the struggle, Riveira says that the first time a student’s GPA falls below a 2.0, they are placed on probation. For most students, that’s enough, but if it happens a second time the student is placed on suspension and may either appeal the suspension or return to their high school classes. If the student returns, they still maintain the credits they’ve completed at the college, but must now focus on finishing their high school diploma before reenrolling in college courses.

Running Start is a financially and developmentally advantageous program that provides many students the opportunity to launch into adulthood equipped with the skills to succeed. To learn more about Clark College’s Running Start requirements, whether or not your student would benefit from it, and how to apply, visit www.clark.edu/runningstart.

Natalie Hyland is a senior studying digital journalism with a print specialization at Central Washington University. She completed the Running Start program through Lower Columbia College in Longview in the Spring of 2016. After graduation, she plans to pursue a career as a sports writer.

Clark College after high school.

Additionally, many students went on to transfer their Clark College Running Start credits to other colleges and universities. In the 2016-2017 academic year, 413 Running Start students graduated simultaneously with their high school degree and their Associate of Arts degrees, many of whom are now studying at four-year universities as upper-classmen.

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Open House: February 3, 10am-12pm

Feature: Vancouver Family Magazine’s Education Guide

Welcome to your brief tour of Clark County educational options, where your community and your child’s educational needs intersect. You’ll find a sampling of private schools from Battle Ground to downtown Vancouver and beyond, as well as contact and location information for each of Clark County’s nine public school districts.

As you consider the best environment for your little (and not so little) learners, keep your eyes and ears alert, and enjoy the ride!

PRIVATE SCHOOLS OF CLARK COUNTY Firm Foundation Christian School Location: 1919 SW 25th Ave., Battle Ground, WA 98604 Phone Number: 360-687-8382 Website: www.ffcs.org Grades: PreK-12th grade Description: Not only does Firm Foundation place high importance on academic achievement, we also encourage an environment where it is safe to ask the tough questions, explore new ideas, and take those academic risks that help our children develop and thrive.

Parents choose FFCS for: • Biblical Integration • Fostering Academic Success • Safety: Secure facility • Culture of love and respect • Small classes and individualized instruction • FFCS teachers: State and ACSI certifications Ongoing professional development • Athletics: Track, soccer, basketball, volleyball • Electives: Lego robotics, web design, culinary, choir, arts, ceramics, photography

28

• Activities: Outdoor School, field trips, Jog A Thon, speech meet, Washington DC Trip, spelling bee, drama, high school mission trips

Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic School Location: 4701 NW Franklin Street, Vancouver, WA, 98663 Phone Number: 360-696-2301 Website: www.lourdesvan.org Grades: PreK-8th grade Description: Welcome to Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic School where exceptional academics and Catholic/ Christian morals and values are taught with care and respect. Conveniently located in the heart of Vancouver, WA, our private school provides a wellrounded education, accomplishes diligent community service, and offers a long list of extracurricular opportunities including sports. All children thrive here as our highly trained teachers journey with them through preschool, kindergarten, elementary and middle school. All faiths are welcome in this family oriented private school.

Educational Opportunities for Children and Families (EOCF) Location: Located in Clark County,

Vancouver Family Magazine • www.vancouverfamilymagazine.com • January 2018

Cowlitz County, and Pacific County Phone Number: 360-567-2720 Website: www.eocfwa.org Grades: Preschool ages 0-5 years Description: Educational Opportunities for Children and Families (EOCF) has grown to become the leading provider of comprehensive early childhood education and family support programs in Southwest Washington. EOCF has been strengthening vulnerable young children and families for 50 years. We provide preschool, childcare and family support services at no cost to more than 2,000 children and families annually, most of whom are low-income or have a documented disability. EOCF is one of the largest social service organizations in Southwest Washington and is the second largest nonprofit organization in Clark County.

The Gan-Garrett Jewish Preschool Location: 9604 NE 126h Ave., Vancouver, WA 98682 Phone Number: 360-256-0859 Website: www.preschoolvancouver.com Grades: Preschool ages 2-5 years Description: The Gan-Garrett Jewish preschool unites children, teachers, family and community in a positive and constructive early childhood experience. continued on page 30

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Vancouver Family Magazine • www.vancouverfamilymagazine.com • January 2018

29

Feature: Vancouver Family Magazine’s Education Guide (cont’d)

continued from page 28

King’s Way Christian Schools Location: 3300 NE 78th St., Vancouver, WA 98665 Phone Number: 360-574-1613 Website: www.kwcs.org Grades: Ages 12 months-12th Grade Description: King’s Way partners with families to provide a Christcentered education for the whole child, leading to life change in each student.

PUBLIC SCHOOL DISTRICTS OF CLARK COUNTY Battle Ground School District 119 11104 NE 149th Street, Brush Prairie, WA 98606 Phone: 360-885-5300 Website: www.battlegroundps.org

Camas School District 117 841 NE 22nd Avenue Camas, WA 98607 Phone: 360-833-5400 Website: www.camas.wednet.edu

Evergreen School District 114 13501 NE 28th Street PO Box 8910 Vancouver, WA 98668-8910 Phone: 360-604-4000 Website: www.evergreenps.org

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Green Mountain School District103

Map of Clark County and approximate school district boundaries. Graphic and school district details courtesy of ESD112.

13105 NE Grinnell Road Woodland, WA 98674 Phone: 360-225-7366 Website: www.greenmountainschool.us

Hockinson School District 98 17912 NE 159th Street Brush Prairie, WA 98606 Phone: 360-448-6400 Website: www.hocksd.org

La Center School District 101 725 Highland Road PO Box 1840 La Center, WA 98629 Phone: 360-263-2131 Website: www.lacenterschools.org

Ridgefield School District 122 2724 South Hillhurst Road Ridgefield, WA 98642 Phone: 360-619-1300 Website: www.ridgefieldsd.org

Vancouver School District 37 PO Box 8937 Vancouver, WA 98668 Phone: 360-313-1000 Website: www.vansd.org

Washougal School District 112-6 4855 Evergreen Way Washougal, WA 98671 Phone: 360-954-3000 Website: www.washougal.k12.wa.us

Vancouver Family Magazine • www.vancouverfamilymagazine.com • January 2018

Washington State School for the Blind 2214 E 13th Street Vancouver, WA 98661 Phone: 360-696-6321 Website: www.wssb.wa.gov

Washington School for the Deaf 611 Grand Blvd Vancouver, WA 98661 Phone: 360-696-6525 Website: www.wsd.wa.gov

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Vancouver Family Magazine • www.vancouverfamilymagazine.com • January 2018

31

CALENDAR OF

EVENTSof&Events ACTIVITIES Calendar & Activities (cont’d)

January ‘18

S

7 14 21 28

M 1 8 15 22 29

T 2 9 16 23 30

W 3 10 17 24 31

T 4 11 18 25

F S 5 6 12 13 19 20 26 27

2 TUESDAY

Building Blocks at Maple Grove School Library, 601 B SW Eaton Blvd., Battle Ground. Building Blocks programs bring stories, songs, and fun to locations throughout our community for children birth through age 5 and their caregivers. First and third Tuesday of each month.

8:45-9:45 am

4 THURSDAY

Pajama Storytime at La Center Community Library, 1411 NE Lockwood Creek Rd., La Center.

Attention kids of all ages (and their grownups)! Get cozy in your pajamas and come to the library for a fun family storytime.

6:30-7:30 pm

5 FRIDAY

Vancouver Downtown Association First Friday in downtown Vancouver. Every

Have a community event that you want to share?

Go to www.vancouverfamilymagazine.com and click on “Calendar” to submit your event. Deadline for print calendar submissions is the 1st of the month prior to the issue.

Events are subject to change. Please contact organization directly to confirm. All library events are free and open to the public.

first Friday of the month throughout the year, participating art galleries, merchants and restaurants in downtown Vancouver open their doors to celebrate opening night of various art exhibits. Live music and citywide receptions welcome all! Visit www.vdausa.org/firstfriday-downtownfor a downtown art gallery list and walking map.

5-9 pm Friday Fun Night at Kids Club Fun & Fitness, 13914 NW 3rd Ct., Vancouver. Themed fun nights on the first and third Friday of each month for kids ages 4-11 while parents get a night out! Cost: $19.95 per child. Book online at www.kidsclub4fun.com or call 360-546-KIDS to reserve your spot. 6:30-10:30 pm

6 SATURDAY

Forest Therapy Workshop at Columbia Springs, 12208 SE Evergreen Hwy, Vancouver.

What will you notice when you relax your mind and connect with nature? Find out at a free guided Forest Therapy workshop at Columbia Springs!

Experience a series of slow, mindful activities designed to open and engage the senses and connect you with nature in a way that invites healing interactions. This meditative and relaxing experience is hosted entirely outdoors, rain or

shine. We will engage in about a half mile of slow walking, and non-vigorous activity.

Pre-registration is required for workshops, and is limited to 15 people per workshop. To learn more and register, visit www. columbiasprings.org/events.

10 am

8 MONDAY

Nursery Rhyme Olympics at Battle Ground Community Library, 1207 SE 8th Way, Battle Ground. Go for the gold and enjoy events such as the Mother Goose Waddle, the Hey Diddle Diddle Spoon Race, and the Jack Be Nimble Candlestick Jump.

Preschool Olympics: January 8 and 10 at 10:30 am Toddler Olympics: January 12 at 10:30 am

9 TUESDAY

MAKE A Better World at Vancouver Community Library, 901 C St., Vancouver. Join in on

Vancouver’s Downtown Association welcomes you to fall in love with your city center and the wonderful Vancouver Arts District at First Friday.

32

activities

Vancouver Family Magazine • www.vancouverfamilymagazine.com • January 2018

Check out our website for even mo re local events .

the 2nd Tuesday of each month to work on a community service project to make the world we live in a little bit better. For makers age 9 and up. 6:30-7:30 pm

10 WEDNESDAY Nursery Rhyme Olympics at Battle Ground Community Library, 1207 SE 8th Way, Battle Ground. Go for the gold and enjoy events such as the Mother Goose Waddle, the Hey Diddle Diddle Spoon Race, and the Jack Be Nimble Candlestick Jump.

Preschool Olympics: January 8 and 10 at 10:30 am Toddler Olympics: January 12 at 10:30 am

11 THURSDAY

Bookapalooza Used Book Sale at Fort Vancouver Regional Library Operations Center, Downstairs in Library Hall, 1007 continued on page 34

FRIDA

5

Y

Downtown Camas First Friday: CLUE. Start your night at the Downtown Camas Association tables at 4th and Birch and then find fun clues in participating downtown Camas merchant shops to solve the “Case of the Missing Cupcakes” and earn tickets to win prizes. Event also includes art receptions and shows, kids’ winter crafts, and more. 5-8 pm

of events

Photo courtesy Vancouver’s Downtown Association

Calendar

Vancouver Family Magazine • www.vancouverfamilymagazine.com • January 2018

33

Calendar of Events & Activities (cont’d)

F

RIDA

Bookapalooza Used Book Sale at Fort Vancouver Regional Library Operations Center.

(See Jan. 11) 9 am-6 pm Nursery Rhyme Olympics at Battle Ground Community Library, 1207 SE 8th Way, Battle Ground. Go for the gold and enjoy events such as the Mother Goose Waddle, the Hey Diddle Diddle Spoon Race, and the Jack Be Nimble Candlestick Jump.

Preschool Olympics: January 8 and 10 at 10:30 am Toddler Olympics: January 12 at 10:30 am Contra in the Couve dancing at Hazel Dell Grange, 7509 NE Hazel Dell Ave., Vancouver. New and experienced dancers alike are invited to enjoy this American social dance tradition dating back to the colonial period. It’s fun, interactive, easy to learn, great exercise, and, like square dancing, prompted by a caller and with live music. Cost: $7. More info at www.contrainthecouve. org. 7:30-11 pm

Bookapalooza Used Book Sale at Fort Vancouver Regional Library Operations Center.

(See Jan. 11) 9 am-6 pm Club Upside Open Gym at St Andrew Lutheran Church, 5607 NE Gher Rd., Vancouver. Club

34

Photo credit Afton Nelson

Building Blocks at Maple Grove School Library. (See Jan. 2) 8:45-9:45 am

19 FRIDAY

Friday Fun Night at Kids Club Fun & Fitness, 13914 NW 3rd Ct., Vancouver. (See Jan. 5) 6:30-10:30 pm

20 SATURDAY

WSU Vancouver Preview Day at 14204 NE Salmon Creek Ave., Vancouver You’re invited to WSU Vancouver to learn about programs and degrees, how to apply for admission and the many ways to pay for college.

Get your questions answered by faculty, students and financial aid experts. Free and open to the public. Check in at Firstenburg Student Commons. Optional campus tour begins noon at the Firstenburg Family Fountain. For more information and to RSVP, visit www.vancouver.wsu.edu/ preview. 1 pm Oregon Children’s Theatre presents “Pete the Cat” at Newmark Theatre, 1111 SW Broadway, Portland. Showtimes: January 20-February 18, 2018, Saturdays at 2 pm & 5 pm, Sundays at 11 am & 2 pm (No 11 am show on 2/4, 2/11, or 2/18). Recommended for ages 4+.

Tickets $14-$32 at www.octc.org/ pete-the-cat. 2 & 5 pm

21 SUNDAY

Oregon Children’s Theatre presents “Pete the Cat” (See Jan. 20) 11 am & 2 pm

23 TUESDAY

Story Explorers at Camas Public Library, 625 NE 4th Ave., Camas. A book discussion group for 2nd-3rd grades and their parents. How it works: Sign out a special copy of the book before the meeting. You both read the book. You both come to the meeting, and then keep your copy of the book for good, free! There will be snacks and an activity. 6:30 pm

27 SATURDAY Oregon Children’s Theatre presents “Pete the Cat” (See Jan. 20) 2 & 5 pm

Fort Vancouver Lantern Tour at 1001 E 5th St., Vancouver.

This tour offers attendees an opportunity to view many of the resources of Fort Vancouver National Historic Site in a different light: at night, on foot, and by candle lantern!

Reservations for all Lantern Tours are required, and payment for the tour must be made at the time of the reservation. Recommended for children ages 10 and over.

Cost is $20 for adults and $10 for children ages 15 and under.

Call 360-816-6216 to make a reservation. 7 pm

28 SUNDAY

Oregon Children’s Theatre presents “Pete the Cat” (See Jan. 20) 11 am & 2 pm

TURDA

27

On Lantern Tours, visitors carry lanterns throughout Fort Vancouver and learn about the history of the site.

Vancouver Family Magazine • www.vancouverfamilymagazine.com • January 2018

Y

13 SATURDAY

16 TUESDAY

Contra dances are held at the Hazel Dell Grange the second Friday of every month. No experience required!

NPS Photo

12 FRIDAY

Upside is an all ages event where adults can share day to day life, challenges and triumphs; children can play and develop lifelong friendships; and siblings can share their feelings and know they are not alone. Play equipment and baby toys are included, snacks are provided and there is no cost to families.

This event is cross-disability for children of all ages and abilities.

2-4 pm

SA

E Mill Plain Blvd., Vancouver.

Over 20,000 used books are available--genres include biographies, travel, religion, fiction, mystery, romance, self-help, children’s, science fiction, western, health, cooking, garden, sports, computers, and reference. Most books are in excellent condition.

Prices are $0.50 for standard mass market paperbacks, and $1.00 for hardbound and trade publications. 100 percent of monies raised are used for special library programs such as the annual Summer Reading Program. 9 am-6 pm

Y

12

continued from page 32

Shopping, Dining & Entertainment Conveniently located at I-205 and SR-500

EL

30

JAN 20–FEB 18

NEWMARK THEATRE Recommended for ages 4 and up

EBRATIN

G

C

Ticket s st ar t at just $14

Y E A R S!

www.octc.org oregon arts commission

Book and Lyrics by Sarah Hammond. Music by Will Aronson. Based on the popular book series by Kimberly and James Dean.

PETE THE CAT was originally commissioned and produced by TheatreworksUSA of New York City.

ShopVancouverMall.com

advertiser index Camps, Parties & Entertainment Dizzy Castle...................................................19 Mountain View Ice Arena................................31 Naydenov Gymnastics.....................................7 Vancouver Parks and Recreation...............5, 36 YWCA...............................................................7

Events Children’s Festival..........................................17 FVRL 2018 Bookapalooza..............................21 Oregon Children’s Theatre.............................35 Vancouver Youth Choirs.................................11

Financial Guaranteed Education Tuition........................23 iQ Credit Union.................................................3

Fitness barre3 Felida..................................................29 Mountain View Ice Arena................................31 Naydenov Gymnastics.....................................7 World Class Martial Arts.................................17

Health Adventure Dental............................................31 Barnick Chiropractic.......................................15 Child and Adolescent Clinic..............................3 Deluna Kids Dental...........................................9 Dentistry for Children......................................21 Evergreen Pediatrics......................................29 Harmony Family Dentistry................................5 PeaceHealth Southwest...................................2 Priority Life Chiropractic and Massage...........31 Vancouver Orthodontic Specialists.................33

Legal Schauermann, Thayer, Jacobs, Staples & Edwards PS...................................25

Restaurants The Blind Onion................................................7

Retail Kazoodles.......................................................15 Vancouver Mall...............................................35

Schools & Education Clark County Montessori Schools..................27 EOCF................................................................5 The Gan Jewish Preschool............................29 King’s Way Christian School..........................31 Naydenov Gymnastics.....................................7 Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic School.............13

Resources ANC Movers...................................................15 EOCF................................................................5 Guaranteed Education Tuition........................23

Vancouver Vancouver Family Family Magazine Magazine • www.vancouverfamilymagazine.com • www.vancouverfamilymagazine.com • December • January 2016 2018

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Breathe easy.

Your January membership is 50% off!

Sign up for an ongoing membership at Firstenburg or Marshall community centers any time in January and receive 50% off of your January dues.

Firstenburg Community Center 700 NE 136th Ave.

360-487-7001

• 50+ fitness classes each week • 25+ aqua exercise classes, public swims & family swims each week • 30+ classes for seniors & beginning participants • Climbing activities • Unlimited use of fitness center & indoor track • Organized open gym times • Pickleball drop-in play

Marshall Community Center 1009 E. McLoughlin Blvd.

360-487-7100

• 50+ weekly fitness group exercise classes • 30+ weekly water exercise classes • Unlimited access to the fitness center, lap swims, public & family swims & open gym times

VanParksRec @GoPlayVancouver #GoPlayVancouver

www.cityofvancouver.us/passpromo Offer expires January 31, 2018. Cannot have been a passholder in December 2017. Some exclusions may apply. Does not include 1, 3 or 12 month passes.