Vancouver Family Magazine May 2023

12 20 26

May '23

FEATURE ARTICLES

Matt, Mary and Marathons: Mom and Son Fight for a Cure

Read how one local marathoner is overcoming the odds, thanks to research funded by the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation.

Facing Your Fears with Fun

High adrenaline sports in Southwest Washington are the perfect mix of fun and fright.

Unique and Unforgettable Getaways in Southwest Washington

From prehistoric to galactic adventures, create a fun getaway close to home at these local, themed vacation rentals.

IN EVERY ISSUE

6 Editor’s Notes

8 Couve Scoop

• Ruth Bader Ginsburg Elementary Spanish/English Dual-Language School Will Open Fall 2023

• Parkersville Day Celebrates Washougal History

• Micah's Miles Mini Marathon

10 Helping Hands

• Cloth+Foster: Local Nonprofit Helps Foster Families Feel the Love.

32 Calendar of Events & Activities

ON THE WEB

• Enter for a chance to win a huge prize package celebrating VFM's 20 years of serving Southwest Washington.

• A Few of Our Favorite Parks

Working Yourself Out of a Job

In a recent episode of the podcast, “A Slight Change of Plans,” Dr. Maya Shankar interviewed author, television host and fellow podcaster, Kelly Corrigan, about all the feelings that come with emptying the nest. As the mother of two daughters, Corrigan always knew, intellectually, that the job of parenting is essentially to work herself out of a job. We teach our kids to study, to work hard, to develop relationships, to make and achieve goals—all with the objective of our children being successful in the world—without us.

“They became their own people,” Dr. Shankar said to Corrigan of Corrigan’s daughters who are now grown. “You’ve written elsewhere that their parting from you marks the ultimate success. That is the end goal. And yet, the reality of it totally knocked your socks off.” “Yes, exactly,” Corrigan responded. “There was no change of plans whatsoever. The day they were born, this is what we would hope for.” Yet, earlier in the conversation, Corrigan shared the heartbreak of dropping her younger daughter off at college—the end of her mothering life as she knew it. “This [mothering] is the part of life that I was looking forward to the most, and today is the end of it,” she shared. “And there will be great things, of course. So much good work to do, so many people to love and help. I get it. But this is what I wanted the most, and today it’s changing forever. We’re never going back.”

In a way, the arc of parenting is a pretty raw deal for parents—we give everything, only for our precious charges to ultimately leave. On the other hand, beholding the beauty of our children creating a life of their own, even with some messiness and some mistakes, is truly a privilege. Wherever you are on your parenting journey, take time to be grateful for the privilege of loving, protecting and guiding a young person on their own individual life path. Even if it means you are guiding yourself right into retirement.

This month, learn the inspiring story of a mother and son who are fighting for a cure to a devastating disease, in a way they couldn’t have imagined possible (page 12). Plus, explore some of the most unique getaway locations in Southwest Washington (page 26) and face your fears with high adrenaline sports that are the perfect mix of fun and fright (page 20).

Volume 22, Issue 5

Publisher Julie Buchan

Julie@vancouverfamilymagazine.com

(360) 882-7762

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

Associate Editor Sarah Mortensen Sarah@vancouverfamilymagazine.com

Graphic Designer I-Shüan Warr Ishuan@vancouverfamilymagazine.com

Contributing Writers Emily Corak, Kristen Flowers, Sarah Mortensen

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

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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.

On the Cover:

Nikki Klock, Editor nikki@vancouverfamilymagazine.com

Photo by Marie Pham Photography

Deb, pictured here in Battle Ground with 3 of her 4 kids, works full time at Nike while her husband is a stay-at-home dad. She says she is “proof of what can happen when moms have a community and village supporting them!”

Photo by: Missy Bachmeier Take 5 Photography take5photography.com 360.907.1784 @Take 5 Photography @Take5Photography

Ruth Bader Ginsburg Elementary

Spanish/English Dual-Language School Set to Open Fall 2023

Following an October 2021 groundbreaking, Ruth Bader Ginsburg Elementary in Hazel Dell is nearing completion, and is now set to open for the 2023-24 school year. “RBG” which will be Vancouver School District’s first school that is entirely a Spanish/English dual-language program, and one of Vancouver School District’s first two elementary choice schools with no “neighborhood school” boundaries—the first of which is Vancouver Innovation Technology and Arts Elementary (VITA) in Downtown Vancouver. Interested students across the district are encouraged to apply for admission to the school, which will start out by offering just two grades. “Since starting bilingual education at an early grade is essential for success, RBG will enroll students in kindergarten and first grade the first year it is open,” according to the school’s website. “Grades offered each school year will expand as the students progress until all grades preschool through fifth grade are offered.” Transportation will be provided for students who live within Vancouver School District. Sarah Flynn, previously at Sarah J. Anderson Elementary when its Spanish/English program was introduced, has been named the school’s “planning principal,” a title designating a principal overseeing the organization and preparation of a school before its opening. Once the school opens, Flynn will remain principal.

“Students will be selected using a blind lottery process,” said Vancouver Public Schools’s executive director of communications, Jessica Roberts. “The selection process for all programs of choice, secondary and elementary, assigns a set number of openings based on the student’s neighborhood school’s population size and factors of that school community. This selection process is an effort to assure that enrollment within programs of choice mirrors those of the district.” Applications for entry into the school are open through May 12, 2023. Find more information, including application details at Ginsburg. vansd.org

Parkersville Day Celebrates Washougal

History

The Camas-Washougal area has a rich history that began in a township that no longer exists—Parkersville. To celebrate this history, Parkersville Heritage Foundation in Washougal is preparing to host its second annual Parkersville Day in June at Parker’s Landing Historical Park, the national, state, and county registered historic site of Parkersville and located on the Columbia River at the Port of Camas-Washougal.

The event’s namesake, David C. Parker, was the first American settler in the area that grew into Camas and Washougal, arriving in the fall of 1844, and eventually securing a ferry license to run passengers across the river. Parker died in 1858, and in 1861, his ferry license was issued to Thomas J. Fletcher. In 1878, Parker’s estate administrator, Lewis Van Vleet, Sr., a notary involved in local government contracts, filed and recorded a plat for Parkersville. Van Vleet doubled the original town size and began hosting grand events there, in the area called Catalpha Grove, which is today’s Parker's Landing.

Explore more local history and enjoy 1878-themed entertainment for all ages at this year’s event, taking place on June 3, 2023, 12-3 pm.

Ruth Bader Ginsburg Elementary School, Vancouver School District’s first fully duallanguage school, is set to open for the 2023-24 school year. Rendering image courtesy Vancouver School District

Parker’s Landing Historical Park in Washougal will host Parkersville Day June 3, 2023. Photos courtesy Parkersville Heritage Foundation.

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Micah’s Miles Mini Marathon

This month, 13-year-old Micah S., of Camas, and his family are inviting walkers, runners and rollers to complete a marathon with them—a mini marathon. Rather than enduring 26.2 miles, participants in Micah’s Miles Mini Marathon, taking place on May 21, will enjoy 2.62 miles along the Columbia River at west Vancouver’s beautiful Frenchman’s Bar. Micah has a genetic mutation that limits his movement, speech and development, but his family and friends have pushed Micah in his wheelchair many miles ever since he was just 2 years old, completing 38 (true) marathons together to date and raising over $80,000 for various charitable causes through their own nonprofit, Micah’s Miles. Registration for this year’s second annual Micah’s Miles Mini Marathon is $45, and includes a shirt, medal and swag bag. Funds will support Micah’s Miles’ mission to build inclusive communities where, as the organization’s website says, “everyone is welcomed for the unique value and perspective they bring.” Learn more at micahsmiles.org

Micah S. poses with his dad at the starting line of the 2023 Couve Clover Run in Downtown Vancouver in March.

Photo courtesy Micah’s Miles.

By Sarah Mortensen

The call they’ve been expecting comes in. It could be in the middle of a workday, at dinnertime, or even the middle of the night. “Are you able to take a child?” they ask. The answer for foster parents is almost always yes; they know they signed up for surprises when they went through Core Training with the Department of Children Youth and Families (DCYF). One thing foster families learn in training is that the first 72 hours are crucial. A child who has been removed from their home and primary caregivers has already been through a lot. The trauma of separation combined with the fear of meeting new people makes the introduction with their foster parents complicated to say the least. The worry for their own family is often in the forefront of their mind while they wonder when they’ll get to see them again. Clothes, a backpack, and even special toys that may have brought them comfort are almost always left behind.

Brittany Clapp remembers picking up one of the more than 30 children she has fostered over the years and having to make a Target run to get some essentials on the way home. “When children enter foster care, they usually come with only the clothes on their backs because they don’t have anything, or due to safety,” she explains. Her three biological children and one adopted child were also with her, which made this a particularly inconvenient trip. She wanted to focus on the child, to give them comfort and encouragement, but instead her attention was split between thinking about what items she would need for the next few days for

them while keeping her whole crew together—immediately after what was likely the worst moment of that child’s life.

Foster parents are currently given a $200 clothing credit for the children they take in, but in today’s world, that doesn’t go very far, especially for older kids and teens. As Clapp reached out to other foster families, she learned to “crowdsource” for clothes and other items she needed. Putting out a request on Facebook was the simplest way to learn what her circle of friends could contribute. Soon, Clapp was collecting and sorting clothes and handing them out to other foster families. Clapp says Cloth + Foster “began by accident.” She wasn’t out trying to create a nonprofit, but that’s just what happened. Cloth + Foster received its 501(c)(3) certification on November 30, 2022, but “IRS rules allowed us to [backdate] our founding to be recognized as a 501(c)(3) in 2020, making all donations since our founding tax deductible,” she explains.

Half of the large barn on Clapp’s property is dedicated to Cloth + Foster. Tall shelves hold bins of items sorted by size and gender, making it easy to find exactly what someone is looking for. In addition to clothing, 72-hour grab bags are ready to fulfil requests quickly. Clapp says her two primary goals are to “help [foster families] get to the loving part faster and to eliminate any barrier for a foster family to say yes to a placement or sticking with it.” Not only does Cloth + Foster serve foster parents, they also help the

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“The work is hard, the need is real and all the support our community can provide is welcomed.

–Brittany Clapp

Top: Crossroads Community Church's media producer Kailey Andres films a message from Cloth + Foster founder Brittany Clapp to Crossroads congregants who supported a winter drive through their LoveNow Ministries. "Crossroads Community Church is a massive supporter of what we do," says Clapp. All photos courtesy Brittany Clapp.

Bottom: Brittany Clapp's husband Aric (4th from left in Cloth + Foster sweatshirt), poses along with Cloth + Foster volunteers the Watkins family (left) and Brittany's dad, Bret Clayton (far right), for the organization's Fill the Truck clothing drive. About every 7 weeks Cloth + Foster works with community partners to collect clothing and goods to support foster children, typically collecting 8,000-10,000 pounds of clothing to help fill their inventory. Clothes that don't pass their high standards, but are still good, find a new home with another nonprofit organization that distributes the clothing into the community and other communities in need.

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families of origin as children are transitioned from foster care back home. On the website, there is a simple caregiver request form where families can ask for specific needs. “There is no limit on caregiver requests,” shares Clapp.

Cloth + Foster grew quickly and has almost outgrown the barn. Clapp is planning to build a dedicated (and heated) space that will allow for more volunteers to gather on site. In the meantime, they are always in need of new and gently used donations of clothes, toys, blankets and shoes. The whole operation began by word of mouth, so simply spreading the word to your friends helps Cloth + Foster in their outreach. They also appreciate help with washing donated clothes, many from local kid’s consignment shop Denim and Frills (“They have been magic!” says Clapp). It’s also important to Clapp that foster children feel like they fit in with their new family. For that reason, she is “super-picky” about what donations are accepted. She says old or worn clothing should not be something that sets a child apart from their foster siblings. Clapp has learned that having “something they can call theirs,” is important to that sense of belonging because the other children in the home have toys and things of their own already.

In addition to washing and sorting clothes, Cloth + Foster also regularly needs help with cleaning loaner car seats that are used for transporting kids. Clapp assures she will find a way for “anyone

that wants to lean in and love” to help. “The need is very real for supporting foster families and for others to become licensed foster parents,” she continues. “Foster families are asked to welcome and love a foster child like their own for years with the primary goal to say goodbye when they can be reunited with their family of origin. We know what we signed up for, but the heartbreak is real, and attachments are real as foster families pour their hearts into these children . . . How can you not fall in love with someone you are serving? We have wiped away many tears as we’ve said goodbye to little ones as they are moved to a suitable family member or back to their biological parents. The work is hard, the need is real and all the support our community can provide is welcomed.”

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.

Top: Brittany Clapp sorts clothing at home for distribution to local foster children and teens.

Bottom: Brittany Clapp carries bags of supplies headed to foster families.

Matt, Mary and Marathons: Mom & Son Fight for a Cure

By Sarah Mortensen

Mary Pozsgai remembers holding her best friend Annie’s hand as she took her last breath one day after turning 18. In 1983, the average lifespan of someone with cystic fibrosis (CF) was early teens, but “Annie’s determination to live to be an adult helped her beat the odds,” says Mary. “For a very long time I [asked] . . . Why Annie? Why was this amazing friend brought into my life just so I could watch her die?” The answer to Mary’s question came ten years later when Mary’s own son was diagnosed with the same devastating disease. “Until that point, I never even knew I carried the defective gene that causes CF.”

A Deadly Diagnosis

Cystic fibrosis is a degenerative genetic disease that affects multiple systems in the body, but Mary says the damage done to the lungs is the most life-threatening part for the majority of those living with CF. The defective genes cause a buildup of mucus to accumulate in the lungs, reducing their function. The excess mucus traps bacteria and other pathogens which invariably lead to lung infections and chronic lung damage. When Mary’s son, Matt, was diagnosed at just four months old, she knew what lay in his future. However, she refused to allow herself to go down the path of negativity. “I am a firm believer in the power of positive thinking. I was never in denial about what this disease was capable of doing, [I’d] already lived through that once, but I never allowed my thoughts to go to preparing for the worst because I felt like that could turn the trajectory of our fight in that direction. I kept my focus on fighting to keep him alive, and I kept my hope on the power of science.”

Treatments and therapies began immediately after Matt’s diagnosis. As an infant and toddler, he was small and had problems with digestion, since CF also affects the pancreas and salt absorption. Doernbecher Children’s Hospital in Portland houses our region’s cystic fibrosis clinic which specializes in the latest treatments and medications. The comprehensive team consists of doctors, nurses, dieticians, pharmacists, physical therapists, respiratory therapists and even social workers. Mary had seen the treatments available to Annie, but ten years later, there were more options for her baby boy. “That not only gave me purpose to keep pushing that science forward, it also gave me the hope I needed to begin my new journey with cystic fibrosis,” she shares.

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Top: Matt Pozsgai walks along a hospital corridor where he spent many weeks and months as a child and teen.

Bottom: Matt Pozsgai rests and endures tests and treatments during a few of many hospital stays and visits throughout his adolescence.

All photos courtesy Mary Pozsgai.

continued from previous page

Antibiotics, enzymes, chest therapy and pulmonary function tests helped to slow and monitor the progress of Matt’s disease while the Pozsgais waited and prayed for more medical advancements.

In third grade, and again in seventh grade, Matt spent weeks at a time in the hospital, as specialists worked to clear out as much sticky mucus as possible. Things continued to get worse as Matt prepared to start high school. Starting in August 2009, the summer before his freshman year, and for 10 years afterward, “Matt was in and out of the hospital every 3-4 months for a

minimum of 2 weeks at a time, a total of 38 admits,” his mother recalls. “In that time he also did three rounds of long term IV antibiotics at home, one of those lasting 14 straight months of around-the-clock IVs.” Doernbecher became a home away from home, and the medical team became a second family. “When Matt was in and out of the hospital all those years, our family lived in two dimensions,” recalls Mary. “We had our home life when he was well enough to be home. When he was admitted, I would take off work to stay with him. Matt’s younger siblings would go to school and then their father would bring them to the hospital to have dinner, do homework, spend family time and then go back home.” It was busy and stress-filled, but the family made memories together at the hospital, supporting Matt and each other.

Advocacy and Advancements

Shortly after Matt’s diagnosis, the Pozsgais connected with the Oregon and Southwest Washington chapter of the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation (CFF) which works to secure more funding for research and finding a cure. “Annie was my mentor to this disease, and I believe she was Matt’s guardian angel. She not only taught me about CF, but she also gave me the vision to see just how important CF awareness and funding science was.” Mary brought

continued on page 14

the annual fundraiser walk Great Strides to Vancouver in 2000. This year, the event will be held on May 13 at Esther Short Park with the goal of raising $55,000 for CFF. “The advocacy of the CFF, and the funding of the people who support their mission has astronomically changed the lives of people living with CF,” explains Mary. “In the 1950s when the CFF was founded, kids with CF rarely lived to see kindergarten. Now, due directly to the CFF, there are new medications to treat the symptoms of CF.” For some gene mutations, medications have even been developed that can treat the underlying cause of the disease.

New treatments did become available by the time Matt reached middle school, which brought more hope to his family. In addition to working with the local chapter of CFF, the Pozsgais have traveled to Washington D.C. to meet with members of congress and participate in CFF’s annual March on the Hill event. Mary and her daughter, (Matt’s sister) Mckenna, have spoken on Capitol Hill to raise awareness and advocate for all people living with CF.

Wishing for a Cure

In middle school, Matt had played on the basketball team and was relatively healthy thanks to new maintenance treatments. But slowly, his lung function decreased and by 9th grade he could no longer keep up with his friends to play sports or even just goof off in the backyard with his younger brother and sister. Running the length of his house was his limit and a serious struggle. Every four months, he would be readmitted for two weeks at a time. During this time, Matt had been nominated for a wish from MakeA-Wish Foundation and originally “wished” to meet his idol Steve Irwin, the Crocodile Hunter. Unfortunately, that wish did not come true. Instead, at age 16, Make-A-Wish granted Matt his own “man cave” in his garage where he could hang out with friends, play video games and drink sodas from the “bar” in what looked like a miniature Buffalo Wild Wings. It was his own space where he could just be a teen and not think about his disease.

As a senior, Matt was nominated by his cousin to compete in the Mr. Skyview Pageant at Skyview High School, a sort of parody

on beauty pageants that raises money for charity. Matt accepted the challenge, representing Make-A-Wish, who had previously helped him. Even as he was sick himself, he danced in multiple performances and won for his fundraising efforts. As Mary thinks back on those days, Matt’s positive attitude and living life to the fullest as he faced exponential health challenges is what makes her most proud. “I am most proud of his strength and courage. It is truly hard to see from the outside looking in just what it means to live with CF, especially when it’s someone like Matt who only lets you see that infectious, sparkling smile he wears. To face overwhelming daily treatment burden, the constant derailing of important moments, the uncertainty of each day, having to face your own mortality while still a child. Pushing through the pain and doing all that is required of you no matter how sick you feel or how tired you are. Daily handfuls of pills, hours of inhaled medication and chest physiotherapy, nightly tube feeds, IV antibiotics, countless hospital stays, PICC Lines, Ports, G-tubes, CAT Scans, X-rays, blood draws—all with no promises, just the hope that a cure will be found before it’s too late. This was Matt’s world for most of his childhood and early adult life 24/7, 365 days a year.”

A Game Changer

By age 25, Matt ’s lungs were functioning at about 50% and “talks were trending toward lung transplant in his future,” says his mom. Then in October 2019, a new drug became available called Trikafta. Matt was able to take the drug one month after the FDA’s approval and within hours of his first dose, he noticed a difference. The drug works on a cellular level, helping the body to dislodge and expel the thickened mucus. He quickly regained 25% of his lung function and gained 25-30 pounds. While the drug was still new and long-term results uncertain, Matt was grateful and feeling great. But, just as his world began to open up, the COVID-19 pandemic struck, and the outside world shut down.

With Matt being extremely high-risk, his family took extra precautions during the pandemic. Matt’s father, Steve, and brother, Adam, are both firefighters who still went to work every day. Before the vaccine became available, Steve lived in the family’s trailer in

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10 million Americans are symptomless carriers of the defective gene that causes cystic fibrosis. It can unknowingly be passed down in a family for generations. Like with us, this is the case for many of the people I have met in the CF community. That’s why it is so important to continue to fight this disease. The help you give today could make the difference in the future for someone you love that is yet to be born."

—Mary Pozsgai

The Vancouver arts hub is a plan to bring new life to the former Vancouver library building on Mill Plain as a vibrant art center.

Emphasizing visual arts, the arts hub will be a gathering place where people can create and learn together.

Learn more and take the survey at BeHeardVancouver. org .

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the driveway and Adam didn’t come home to visit. Mckenna, who was still living at home, dropped out of her college program as a respiratory therapist to limit her own exposure. No one wanted to risk the possibility of infecting Matt just as he was starting to feel better. Mary still cooked family meals and they gathered at a distance outside in the backyard to spend time together. Matt became especially grateful for the man cave where he could still communicate with friends through online video games. “In order to keep Matt as safe as possible, our family had to fracture,” says Mary. “As far as isolating, social distancing and wearing masks, we were way ahead of the game. Those were already a normal part of life for anyone living with CF.”

Ready to Run

After a year of isolation and months of sitting, Matt decided to try something new. “Originally, I began running after I started Trikafta just for the mere fact that I could,” he says. “I hadn’t been able to run for almost my entire life at that point.” Matt began with very short distances, building up his stamina from one mile to four, each time feeling a runner’s high and gaining confidence. “I was running those distances a few times every week. That routine lasted about six months. At the beginning of 2022, I ran my first 7.5-mile run, then two days later I ran a 10-miler, which blew my mind. I immediately signed up for my first half marathon, which I ran a month later. That’s what started the journey that I’m on now.”

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Matt Pozsgai wears a CF Foundation T-shirt while running along a trail. Pozsgai has personally benefitted from the vital research funded by the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation.

continued from page 15

One of Matt’s nurses, Jessica, at Doernbecher was a runner herself and encouraged Matt to keep pushing his limits. “After my first half marathon, Jess and I were geeking out together about distance running and the idea of me running a full marathon. Jess asked if I’d ever heard of the World Majors, which I hadn’t. They are a series of the top six marathons in the world—Chicago, Boston, New York City, London, Berlin and Tokyo. A lot of runners spend decades trying to complete all six races,” explains Matt. The hardest part is qualifying for these competitive races; however, if you don’t have a fast marathon time, you can be chosen as a sponsored charity runner. “That immediately intrigued me,” Matt continues, “since I love a challenge that most people perceive as unrealistic or unattainable. It also just so happened that the application process had just opened for charity runners for the Chicago marathon, and the CFF was one of those eligible charities. [Jessica and I] put in our applications and both got in.”

Chicago 2022 should had been Matt’s first full marathon. But, while in Chicago, Matt began to feel sick. “I got COVID the day before the race and had to drop out. I was crushed obviously . . . I had put in all that work in training and raised all that money just to get sick and not be able to run. I really wanted to make up those miles for the people that selflessly donated to my fundraiser, and I really wanted to complete that goal I trained so hard for. I was disappointed that I wouldn’t have that significance of running a World Major as my first marathon.” Thankfully, Matt’s COVID infection was minor, likely thanks to Trikafta. While waiting in the hotel room, he thought about how to continue his goal and honor those who had donated to CFF, so he got online and mapped out his own marathon. “I wanted my first marathon to be more significant than just the [number] of miles I was running. The idea of running to Doernbecher just felt right to me. It felt like the perfect way to close the book on that part of my life. It felt symbolic of the transition to this new journey that I’m on to run from my home to the front doors of the hospital where I spent the majority of my life when I was sick. Not only was it a full circle moment for me, it was also a full circle moment for my care team that was waiting to cheer me on at the finish line. That was the moment where I felt like I officially beat CF.”

Matt ran his personal marathon on October 28, 2022, his 28th birthday. His sister Mckenna put together a highlight reel of this moment where his care team was waiting for him and posted it on Instagram. Matt will be going back to Chicago this October and has also been invited to participate in the New York City Marathon in November. His new goal is to be the first person with CF to run all six World Major Marathons. He also plans on running a 50-mile ultra-marathon in July.

Matt has made it farther than he ever imagined, in more ways than one, but his fight against CF is not over yet. “I hope that sharing my story and my journey while also advocating for the CF community will further awareness and funds for the CFF so that everyone with CF has the opportunity to experience what I’ve been blessed to experience. There’s still 10% of the CF population that doesn’t have access to medication like Trikafta because it’s not compatible with their gene mutations. That is who I’m fighting for now.”

Sarah Mortensen holds a bachelor’s 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.

Left: Matt Pozsgai smiles while undergoing tests and treatments in the hospital.

Middle: Matt Pozsgai poses with running buddy.

Right: Matt Pozsgai shows off his Big Foot Fun Run medal at the finish line. Inset: Matt Pozsgai smiles after completing his own personal marathon to Doernbecher Children's Hospital.

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Visit your local gyms, healthcare wellness providers in the park! Ta an exercise class, listen to music, have a great day in Esther Short p

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More information : Call 360-519-5314

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There isn’t much time to think as the plane door opens. Peering off the edge of the plane shows a world that looks impossibly small as the wind whirls and screams through the cabin. Without much fanfare, the instructor gives the signal, and the jump begins.

Most people imagine jumping from an airplane to feel like a rollercoaster, the churning in the stomach that seems to grow with every click, click, click of the coaster as it makes its way up the tall hill. Finally, the car plunges, sending its passengers and their stomachs toward the ground until they are whipped through another part of the ride.

Facing your Fears Fun: AdrHighnaline Sports

By Kristen Flowers

This expectation gives skydiving a lousy reputation, and it’s one Heather Whittaker, the owner-operator at Skydive Toledo, is looking to change. In fact, she welcomes anyone who fears heights to jump out of one of her planes. “It’s such a totally different feeling when looking out of an airplane door," Whittaker says. “You don’t get that feeling of falling. When you leave the airplane, you get the immediate feeling of floating.”

Twenty-five years ago, Whittaker was set up on a date by her mom and a church friend. Her mother and her friend wanted their children to fall in love and marry, so they arranged for them to go skydiving. These mothers questioned whether the couple would chicken out, but they didn’t. While Whittaker didn’t marry the man, she found a new love of free falling. She committed to the sport, and it’s

become a key part of her life.

Facing Fears

Whittaker has seen people from all walks of life jump out of her airplanes. Teens turning 18 who are excited to be old enough to finally skydive, people celebrating birthdays, family reunions, bachelor and bachelorette parties, MakeA-Wish recipients and terminal cancer patients who want to experience the thrill before they get too sick. In her career, Whittaker has also helped people who want to conquer their fear of heights. This “exposure therapy” can help some individuals face their fears and improve their lives.

Justin Farrell, a mental health therapist in Southwest Washington, says the key to seeing if this approach is right for you is to run it through his “live, laugh, love” test when talking specifically about heights. “How often in somebody’s daily life are they going to have to deal with heights?”

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Skydivers celebrate while falling thousands of miles above the earth with Skydive Toledo, located about an hour north of Vancouver. Photos courtesy Skydive Toledo.

he begins. “Suppose they don’t deal with heights daily. In that case, the fear probably doesn’t affect their ability to live, laugh and love, so I may not be encouraging that person to climb a mountain or jump out of an airplane because they can function in their life in a way that they don’t need to experience heights. Now, if that person is a professional window washer on a highrise building, we will have some problems, and they will not be able to work.” If you can’t do the things you love because of fear, it might be time to change your life.

Inviting Discomfort

For 9-year-old Slayter D., his love of motocross and desire to become a professional rider were more important than his fear of the sport. Ever since Slayter can remember, motocross has been a part of the family. Watching his dad ride gave him the bug. He asked for his first bike at the age of 2, and his wish was finally granted when he turned 3. At age 4, he entered his first race. That was the moment he had to face his fears head-on. While he raced through the course and over hills and jumps, he rounded a corner and wrecked. Unable to stop, another bike hit him, and he was pinned down

and trapped under two bikes. Slayter remembers being scared, but he got up and continued in a sport he loves. Now he is sponsored by Washougal MX Park and has a message for anyone fearing an extreme sport: “Face your fears and try it.”

The “Just Do It” attitude is something Farrell believes is necessary if a patient comes to him with a desire to live away from a particular fear. Still, it becomes a personal preference on how quickly they want to change. He explains, “For example, jumping into the water, you can put your toe in a little more every time, and you will eventually get in there. Do you just take that initial plunge into the water where you can experience all that discomfort at once or do you do a little at a time? The more discomfort you’re willing to tolerate, the more change you are opening yourself up to.” Bottom line: Do something small outside your comfort zone if you want a minor change. If you want a significant difference, you’ll need to invite discomfort into your life until it doesn’t feel as traumatic as it once did.

Experienced Guides

Kim Wesson is a manager with the tour group River Drifters that takes families, work groups and people of all ages whitewater rafting in Oregon and Washington for full-day, half-day or overnight trips. Wesson started as a guide and saw firsthand how people

came to face their fears. “[Fears] can come from various things like a past experience in the water or the need to be more comfortable. Regardless of the river we are on, our guides are experienced with a lot of time on the water. Additionally, our guides are really good at reading their customers and catering those trips to what people are looking for.”

That is one of the many benefits of River Drifters. Starting as a beginner is easy, especially if you have kids. Rafters can then progress to more challenging rapids and more remote, extended trips. Since River Drifters raft on many different rivers, they have something that will fit everyone’s needs or expectations.

“Whitewater rafting should be fun for everybody, and we hope to make lifelong boaters out of people and guests who return with us,” says Wesson. Kids as young as 4 can join their families on the river, and Wesson believes that exposing kids to rafting can instill a desire to spend time in nature that carries into adulthood.

“I am a mom myself, so in my private life, I take my kiddo rafting often. Some of my favorite guiding experiences out on the water are taking families down, especially with kids whose first time it is on the river because so many kids have an absolute blast rafting.”

Wesson also hopes the benefits outweigh

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A group of rafters enjoy the Deschutes River with a guide from River Drifters. Photo courtesy River Drifters.

Left: Nine-year-old Slayter D. rides at Albany MX Park in February 2023. Photo courtesy Amanda Donovan.

Right: Justin Barsha practices riding for the 2022 nationals at Washougal MX Park. Photo courtesy Ryan Huffman/Washougal MX Park.

Feature: Facing your Fears with Fun (cont'd)

continued from page 22 people’s fears about whitewater rafting. “There is definitely a whole component of being outside and enjoying our natural environment in the Pacific Northwest, running fun rapids, and having that experience with your family and friends. [Rafting’s] got a lot going for it.” This means that rafters can enjoy some incredible landscapes, scenery, wildlife and the ability to stargaze on overnight and single day trips. Wesson believes that once someone sees the beauty of the Pacific Northwest, those fears will subside, and they will be able to relax and enjoy their experience. “I love opening their eyes to this experience and helping them fall in love with rafting and being on the river.”

Trying Something New

Taking a chance and trying something scary is the common denominator of these extreme sports. Ryan Huffman, manager at Washougal MX Park, says the most crucial part of doing something formidable is taking that first step into an unfamiliar world. After that, the difficult part is over, and the fun can begin. He sees this in the riders at his own park all the time. “Sometimes it’s a little overwhelming, but once they get in their first couple of laps, they are pretty stoked.”

Huffman had to overcome his own fear of riding quickly because Washougal MX Park is a family business. “It was in my blood, and I saw my brothers doing it. I wanted it really bad, so when I turned 5, I got to race, and everyone could see it was getting pretty serious.”

But fear cannot always be ignored, and Huffman acknowledges that. With all these extreme sports, there is an element of danger. Motocross riders race over hills, jump in the air and push the bike speed limits. Echoing the mental health principles Farrell touched on, Huffman says you must weigh the idea of risk and reward. Whether you want to take the leap is a personal choice, but Huffman believes

people will like what they find when they do it. “It’s just fun!” he says.

Creating Community

A part of the fun for Huffman is the community. The riders and their families gather together at the track, which becomes just as much a social event as a sporting one. There are barbecues, campouts and a chance for kids to learn to ride. These kids often grow up without fear of the track and can’t wait to get on one themselves.

High-risk sports tend to bring people together, and Whittaker from Skydive Toledo wholeheartedly agrees with that. In fact, for her, it’s the best part of the job and what keeps people returning to her business. “We call ourselves the island of misfit toys. Everyone has stuff about them that is so fascinating and quirky. It’s a wonderful feeling to be part of that family.”

Embracing the Experience

Whittaker has seen people from all walks of life, but the commonality is that they all enjoy the same thing; they know what it’s like to feel the absolute terror of jumping out of an airplane, starting to enjoy the fall, then falling in love with the extreme sport.

Ultimately, many people say it’s the best thing they have ever done. “When you’re done, you’ve got this huge bond with the person or people that you were jumping with, so it’s not uncommon to see [a group land and start] high-fiving and hooting and hollering, and they can’t wait to go inside and watch the video [of their jump]. It’s a wonderful feeling of comradery with yourself, the sky and the people you are with.”

Facing a daunting experience can push a person past their comfort zone, and that’s the point—whether it’s whitewater river rafting, skydiving or motocross. While there is risk involved, it’s more likely that fun will be had, a new skill unlocked, and new bonds forged. And as an added bonus, you may walk away a little less afraid. The only way to see for yourself is to take the leap, jump in the water or race off on a bike. And who knows? A new you might be waiting on the other side.

Kristen Flowers hosts the morning show Nick and Kristen in the Morning on 99.5 The Wolf. She lives in Vancouver with her husband, daughter and three cats. She loves crafting, making pottery, eating ice cream, reading and watching documentaries. She’s also currently in grad school to become a marriage and family therapist.

A group of rafters ride the rapids of the Deschutes River with a guide from River Drifters. Photo courtesy River Drifters.

WE ARE training the next generation of health care professionals in Washington

Feature: Unique and Unforgettable Getaways in Southwest Washington

Unique and Unforgettable Getaways in Southwest Washington

By Emily Corak

G ray weather is starting to subside, and for many of us, the travel itch is starting to emerge. Unfortunately, with the cost of plane tickets on the perpetual rise, air travel is not always accessible or budget-friendly. On the upside, we live in one of the most beautiful corners of the world with nature’s beauty and the city’s amenities all close by. A few individuals in Southwest Washington have harnessed that beauty, and with their own passion, creativity and hard work have curated unique experiences right here in our own backyard. These one-of-a-kind vacation rental destinations might make you reconsider the need for plane travel after all.

Spaceship Voyage

In the 1990s, Kirby Swatosh wrote a song in which the lyrics proclaimed he would build a spaceship in his own backyard. It turned out to be a self-fulfilling prophecy. A child of the 1960s, Swatosh says he grew up in the NASA generation, loving “Star Trek,” “ The Jetsons” and “Lost in Space.”

He says he valued the hopefulness and optimism space had to offer. Now living on acreage in Hockinson, Swatosh recalls he needed a practical structure to store cars and lawn mowers, and his original intent was to build a shop on top. It was his wife who intervened and said, “Just build the spaceship already!” So, he did.

No easy feat, building a spaceship in the backyard became an eight-year-long endeavor due to architectural and cost considerations. “We had to go through a few architects before we found ones who were on board,” says Swatosh. There were no pre-made plans to be found for a spaceship, and thus the design had to be created from scratch, with all members of the family contributing their areas of expertise. “There was a lot of head scratching going on,” Swatosh adds, and even as the project finished, he wondered if anyone would ever be interested in this creation that had originally started as a passion project and a place for his own family to gather. “Would the rest of the world care about this?” he wondered.

The answer, it turns out, is definitively yes. Visitors have come from all over the country to stay in the spaceship and Swatosh says it warms his heart to see his “baby” through the fresh eyes of new guests. In addition to the immaculately themed designs and décor, Kirby and

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Patricia Swatosh love to add personalized touches such as “Star Wars” costumes

Kirby Swatosh built a spaceship in his backyard in Hockinson, and guests are loving it.

Photo courtesy Kirby Swatosh.

their sons used to wear, and birthday cards or banners for special occasions guests will be celebrating. The guests who have stayed here unanimously describe their experience as “once in a lifetime,” “one of the most memorable stays,” and note that they are “mesmerized by the attention to detail.” From the wet bar, or Lunar Lounge, to the elaborate control panels, this immaculately designed spaceship brings pure joy to Earthlings everywhere.

Jurassic Retreat

Swatosh is not the only one who was inspired to create a home in the image

of childhood dreams. Todd Perkins’s childhood love of dinosaurs inspired him to bring them to life in what is now the Jurassic Retreat outside Washougal. While Perkins and his wife sold their retreat last year and it is now managed by a property management firm, the home reflects a lifetime of passion as well as a carefully thought-out tribute to the “Jurassic Park” films.

The Perkins family spent two years creating this Airbnb experience, complete with five life-size, noisemaking, animatronic dinosaurs dispersed throughout the property. These enormous beasts were made in China and include a tyrannosaurus rex, triceratops and a velociraptor perched near the hot tub.

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Entering Jurassic Retreat outside Washougal is like entering the “Jurassic Park” movie set.

Photos by David Roberts.

Feature: Unique and Unforgettable Getaways in Southwest Washington (cont'd)

continued from page 27

Walking inside of the home immediately means coming face to face with a massive T. rex skull mounted on the wall, and poking around the rest of the home reveals subtle and not- so-subtle homages to the film: a Jeep parked in the driveway, the occasional prehistoric skull and DNA and dinosaur décor. Jurassic Retreat is open and ready for dino enthusiasts and film lovers to engage in the thrills of childhood again.

The Klickitat Treehouse

An homage to childhood can also appear in the love of the outdoors and a deep desire to connect to nature. Taryn and Colin Mooney had nostalgic memories of being outside and crafting outdoor forts and treehouses. Hailing from Ohio, Colin fondly remembers heading out for family weekends away from the suburbs into nature and wanting to someday recreate that for his own family. Taryn Mooney, who grew up in Portland, says she strongly believes that everyone should go outside and have fun, and it’s that philosophy that helped to launch the Klickitat Treehouse home in White Salmon. A popular spot for hiking, kayaking, rafting, wind surfing and mountain biking plus a multitude of restaurants and bars, “White Salmon had so many of the right ingredients we were looking for,” they say.

Wanting to create something for themselves and also for others, the Mooneys collaborated with Charlie Greenwood of Greenwood Engineering and designer Jean Robinson to design and build the treehouse of their dreams. One of

their most important design elements was to be able to face Mount Adams and have a clear view from anywhere in the treehouse. “We wanted a connection to the outdoors, the natural light, and the view, while also bringing in modern amenities,” says Colin. “For people who are on the fence about camping, this is a great happy medium,” adds Taryn.

The house itself is a modern, 500- squarefoot space that rises 20 feet in the air at its highest point and is supported by three Douglas firs. Through the process of scouting property, designing and planning, and eventually beginning construction, the treehouse was set to open to visitors in the spring of 2020. “The first couple of months were just crickets,” says Colin,

noting COVID shutdowns. But eventually, the treehouse proved to be a welcome refuge for families seeking solitude and a place to unplug. Originally, the treehouse did not include internet, which enabled people to completely disengage from the outside world, but with the addition of their own child and for safety reasons, internet is now available in the treehouse.

The treehouse is not just a tribute to their own childhoods, but also a chance for the Mooneys to connect as a family at least one weekend a month and create lasting memories for their toddler-age daughter. “We got to watch our daughter take her first steps here,” they say, which adds an extra element of special connection the treehouse is forging. Described as “outstanding,” “peaceful” and a “true gem,” by guests who have visited, this stunning treehouse is a spectacular place to visit for those who want to experience both the great outdoors and indoor creature comforts.

Highland & Co. Acres Shipping Container Home

2020 was the start of new and unique ventures for others as well. Before 2020, Jaimie and Dave Hinckle purchased five acres of property they found on Craigslist in Kalama. The property being little more than a goat trail on a steep hill and overgrown with blackberry and maple vines, these DIY enthusiasts saw potential. Passionate about sustainability, the Hinckles got to work building a tiny home out of shipping container material. Despite numerous challenges including

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Colin and Taryn Moody’s treehouse in White Salmon envelopes guests in nature, offering views of the surround forest and Mount Adams. Photos courtesy Colin and Taryn Moody

Where the Mountain Meets the Moon Where the Mountain Meets the Moon

Book, Music & Lyrics by Min Kahng

Book, Music & Lyrics by Min Kahng

Based on the book by Grace Lin

Based on the book by Grace Lin

continued from previous page

a life-threatening brain bleed, this pair managed to complete 95% of the house themselves while still working their full time jobs. “We quickly learned that when you successfully live tiny, you have to adapt and create sustainable living spaces, including outside living spaces,” says Jaimie. The addition of a shop and some extra living space meant the tiny house was now open for visitors.

In 2020, however, Jaimie and Dave saw an even more pressing need for sustainability. Coupled with Dave’s health scare, they had taken a heightened interest in the food that we consume and channeled their knowledge and passion into homesteading. “We didn’t even have a single chicken when 2020 started,” says Hinckle. They did, however, become Master Gardeners that year, to learn even more about growing and preserving fruits and vegetables. They had already established greenhouses, orchards and berry patches

on the property, and in the summer of 2020, they took their homesteading to the next level, adding 12 chicks to the family. Soon after, dogs joined the property and finally, in the spring of 2021, they rescued a fold of Highland cows, or coos. Wanting to provide a hospitable home for their animal friends to live peacefully, they knew they needed more property, and as luck would have it, their neighbor moved and

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Jaimie and Dave Hinckle built a shipping container tiny home on acreage in Kalama, then decided to welcome a herd of cows and other animals to the property as well. Guests can enjoy the peacefulness of the farm at Highland & Co. Photos courtesy Jaimie Hinckle.

Feature: Unique and Unforgettable Getaways in Southwest Washington (cont'd)

continued from page 29

sold them seven additional acres which would work out well for their gorgeous new brood. “We didn’t have a mortgage until we rescued the cows, but we are glad they are living their best life,” says Jaimie.

Guests are now able to enjoy a stay in the shipping container and enjoy being surrounded by nature, fresh produce, chickens and of course, the coos. Guests have dubbed this a “magical space,” “so stinkin’ cute,” and a beautiful place full of gorgeous views and friendly animals. This is a one-of-a-kind story and a lovely spot and for anyone craving some solitude, simplicity and some snack-loving Highland coos.

Sleepy Sasquatch Hollow

In an effort to launch into the short-term rental business and also learn how to renovate, Ammon Service purchased a property in terrible shape but with lots of untapped potential. The 1.3 acres in Longview looked like a huge, overgrown undertaking, but underneath the blackberry bushes lay a hidden wonderland. Ammon, his fiancé (now wife) Keziah and Ammon’s brother spent a year and a half uncovering what lay beneath: at least 40 different varieties of fruit trees and flowering trees, oaks, walnut and pines. “Whoever lived here before had obviously planted these trees with care and intention,” says

Service. With enough time and patience, the magic of the property revealed itself, and they used three quarters of an acre of blackberry bushes to create an interactive maze for guests to enjoy.

The brothers, who didn’t know much about renovation at the start of the project, began teaching themselves and documenting their adventures. They eventually decided that this majestic property lent itself

nicely to the lore of Sasquatch, and thus a theme was born. The house is filled with tiny homages and décor to celebrate the Pacific Northwest’s mythical legend, but the greatest tribute might be the Sasquatch den in the home’s faux cellar. A one-way mirror and a regular mirror paired together create the illusion of an infinite hole beneath the house, and a button on the wall with Sasquatch’s roar creates a delightful illusion of Sasquatch roaring up from beneath.

Guests have become endeared to the quirky and fun additions to the house, including a coin-in candy machine, a wall featuring board games, and plenty of trails and picnic spaces to discover. Close to Mount St. Helens, the coast, and nearby waterfalls, Service describes the home’s location in Longview as “the perfect landing spot for adventure.” Whether you’re a Bigfoot believer or a Sasquatch skeptic, this dog-friendly home will charm anyone with its delight and whimsy.

Emily Corak has lived in the Pacific Northwest for the past three decades. A former educator with the Vancouver School District, Emily is now a freelance writer, photographer, and mom to two young kids with big personalities. She graduated last fall with her MFA in creative writing, and she would gladly spend all of her free time reading and traveling, if it would only pay the bills.

Ammon Service, along with his fiancé and brother, renovated a home in Longview and dubbed the property Sleepy Sasquatch Hollow. Photos courtesy Ammon Service.

2 TUESDAY

Finding Home: The Immigrant Experience

Through Words and Pictures at Cascade Park Community Library, 600 NE 136th Ave., Vancouver. Celebrate and develop a better understanding of the immigrant journey with an in-depth discussion about the hopes and hardships of finding home. These powerful, compelling stories might be written for children, but this discussion will be more appropriate for adults and older teens. Refreshments provided. 6 pm

3 WEDNESDAY

Reflecting Rainbows: LGBTQ+ Immigrant Experience (Online through FVRLibraries). Join a discussion of the intersection of immigration and LGBTQ+ issues. Participants will be given short reading/viewing/listening materials to review ahead of the meeting. Attend the Zoom session with the intention of learning and growing in your knowledge and understanding. This program is best suited for adults. LGBTQ+ and allies welcome. All participants agree to contribute to creating a safe space. Register at fvrl.librarymarket. com/reflecting-rainbows-lgbtq-immigrantexperience. 7 pm

4 THURSDAY

The Historic Music Preservation Project: Preserving Historic Music for Future Generations at Clark County Historical Museum, 1511 Main St., Vancouver. As part of CCHM’s Speaker Series, Sammuel Murry-Hawkins discusses The Historic Music Preservation Project, an organization he founded, that is dedicated to the preservation and cataloging of historic popular dance sheet music published between 1880 and 1955. Tickets $3-$5 at cchmuseum.org. 7 pm

Majesty: A Tribute to Queen at Columbia Theatre, 1231 Vandercook Way, Longview. Come see one of the UK’s premiere touring Queen tribute bands. If you are looking for a spectacular night of Queen’s greatest hits, Majesty is “Guaranteed to blow your mind!”

of events activities

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.

Tickets $22-$50 at columbiatheatre.com. 7:30 pm

5 FRIDAY

Vancouver’s Downtown Association First Friday Art Walk. Art, culture, food and more in Downtown Vancouver. Go to vdausa. org/first-Friday for an interactive map of participating organizations.

Cinco de Mayo Fiesta at Tom McCall Waterfront Park, 98 SW Naito Parkway, Portland. Music, authentic food, artisan crafts, cultural games and activities, carnival and more. Tickets $8-$10 at cincodemayoportland. com. 11 am-11 pm

CCHMuseum AfterHours at Clark County Historical Museum, 1511 Main St., Vancouver. Have you ever wondered where the PNW’s love for hops and IPAs began? Or who was the first female riverboat captain on the Columbia? Have fun and meet others every First Friday while exploring our community’s history during Clark County Historical Museum’s #CCHMuseum AfterHours! Each monthly event showcases a different theme with experiences such as pop-up exhibits, workshops, live performances, author readings, and more. 5-8 pm

Downtown Camas First Friday – Gnome & Fairy Backyard Adventure Gnomes, fairies, backyard adventures and fun, plus after-hours shopping, dining, games, prizes, and more.

5-8 pm

The Ne Plus Ultra Jass Orchestra at Providence Academy Ballroom, 400 E Evergreen Blvd., Vancouver. Live music and dancing to the tunes of the roaring 20s and Depression-era 30s. Tickets $10 at the door or online at historicmusic.org/upcoming-events.

7-9 pm

Northwest Children’s Theater Catalyst presents “Cinderella” at The Judy, 1000 SW Broadway, Portland. This NWCT original musical tells the story of Cinderella like you’ve never heard it before. A tap-

dancing extravaganza featuring a bigband jazz score by local composer Ezra Weiss, Cinderella explores the challenges of being true to yourself while trying to live up to family expectations. This heartwarming story filled with flashy production numbers and toe-tapping tunes will send audiences home saying, “I just wanna dance!” Tickets $15-$20 at nwcts.org. 7 pm

Love Street Playhouse presents “Enchanted April” at 126 Loves Ave., Woodland. Feeling lost in the shadows of marriage and forgotten in the rush of 1920s post-war society, two London housewives pool their savings to rent a villa in Italy for a ladiesonly holiday away, reluctantly recruiting a pair of difficult upper-class women to share the cost and the experience. Together under the Mediterranean sun, the four women clash— and then begin to bond and bloom—until men once again upset the balance. Tickets $25 at lovestreetplayhouse.com. 7:30 pm

Oregon Children’s Theatre Young Professionals Company presents “Impulse: Sweet 16” at Brunish Theatre, 1111 SW Broadway, Portland. The award-winning premier teen improv group is back for another season of laughs! Now in its 16th year, a new class of comedic comrades will create fast-paced scenes and games—all based on audience suggestions. Get ready for a quickwitted, hilarious night! Recommended for ages 7+. Tickets $12-$18 at octc.org. 7:30 pm

6 SATURDAY

Humane Society for Southwest Washington Walk/Run for the Animals at Esther Short Park, Vancouver. Each year at HSSW, thousands of pets receive lifesaving medical care, shelter and second chance for a happy home. Help support their lifesaving work with the animals by registering to walk or run in Downtown Vancouver. Registration $35-$50 at southwesthumane.org. 9 am-12 pm

Spring Festival in Downtown Ridgefield. Enjoy Ridgefield Farmers Market, a craft station, RAA Art Show, Garden Club plant

Check out our website for even more local events. continued on next page

May 12–14, 2023

• Sand Marathon • Half Marathon

• Kids Events • 5K • 10K • Bike Tour

LONG BEACH PENINSULA, WA

Benefiting Long Beach Merchants Association

May 21, 2023

5K • 10K • Half Marathon

THE PORT OF CAMAS-WASHOUGAL Benefiting NW Battle Buddies

COOL SWAG FOR ALL REGISTERED: TECHSHIRT, MEDAL AND ATHLETE GIFT!

SAVE 10% USING PROMO CODE WHYVANCOUVERFAMILY KIDS 12 AND UNDER RACE FOR FREE AGES 13-17 RACE FOR 50% OFF

REGISTER & DETAILS AT WHYRACINGEVENTS.COM

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sale, live music, Maypole dance and more. 9 am-2 pm

Cinco de Mayo Fiesta at Tom McCall Waterfront Park, Portland. See May 5 for more details. 11 am-11 pm

Northwest Children’s Theater presents “Elephant & Piggie’s We are in a Play” at The Judy, 1000 SW Broadway, Portland. Meet “bestus friends” Gerald the Elephant and Piggie the Pig. Together, they tackle friendship’s big questions: What happens when two friends want to play with one toy? What do you wear to a fancy party? And will anyone say “Banana?” Tickets $25-$35 at nwcts.org. 11 am & 2 pm

Spring Tea at The Marshall House, 1301 Officers Row, Vancouver. Enjoy fine teas and an assortment of treats selected to perfectly complement the teas. Choose from one of two seatings, 11 am-12:30 pm or 2 pm3:30 pm. Seating is limited. Tickets $60 at thehistorictrust.org.

Northwest Children’s Theater Catalyst presents “Cinderella” at The Judy, Portland. See May 5 for more details. 12 pm & 4 pm

Love Street Playhouse presents “Enchanted April” at 126 Loves Ave., Woodland. See May 5 for more details. 2 pm & 7:30 pm

COOL SWAG FOR ALL REGISTERED: TECHSHIRT, MEDAL AND ATHLETE GIFT!

SAVE 10% USING PROMO CODE WHYVANCOUVERFAMILY KIDS 12 AND UNDER RACE FOR FREE AGES 13-17 RACE FOR 50% OFF

REGISTER & DETAILS AT WHYRACINGEVENTS.COM

Oregon Children’s Theatre presents “Where the Mountain Meets the Moon” at Newmark Theatre, 1111 SW Broadway, Portland. In the valley of Fruitless Mountain, a young girl named Min Li lives in a ramshackle hut with her parents. In the evenings, her father regales her with old folktales of the Jade Dragon and the Old Man on the Moon, who knows the answers to all of life’s questions. Inspired by these stories, Min Li sets off on an extraordinary journey to find the Old Man on the Moon to ask him how she can change her family’s fortune. She encounters an assorted cast of characters and magical creatures along the way, including a dragon who accompanies her on her quest for the ultimate answer. Tickets $20-$42 at octc.org. 2 pm & 5 pm

Riverside Performing Arts Youth Dance Company Spring Showcase: “Mother” at 1307-B NE 78th St., Vancouver. Mother Nature is the air we breathe, the ground we inhabit, the planet we call home; she needs no introduction. Drawing inspiration from our primal home, celebrating the need to create, exploring the circle of life, this contemporary dance concert presents original pieces in mixed mediums by local choreographers and artists. Tickets $15-$30 at nortwestpaa.org.

6 pm

Vancouver Master Chorale presents “A Glimpse of Heaven” at First Presbyterian Church, 4300 Main St., Vancouver. Requiem

and Regina Coeli by Mozart and All God’s Children by Henry Mollicone, composed for Vancouver Master Chorale. Tickets $25 at vancouvermasterchorale.org. 7 pm

Oregon Children’s Theatre Young Professionals Company presents “Impulse: Sweet 16” at Brunish Theatre, Portland. See May 5 for more details. 7:30 pm & 9:30 pm

7 SUNDAY

Cinco de Mayo Fiesta at Tom McCall Waterfront Park, Portland. See May 5 for more details. 11 am-11 pm

Northwest Children’s Theater presents “Elephant & Piggie’s We are in a Play” at The Judy, Portland. See May 6 for more details. 11 am & 2 pm

Oregon Children’s Theatre presents “Where the Mountain Meets the Moon” at Newmark Theatre, Portland. See May 6 for more details. 11 am & 2 pm

Riverside Performing Arts Youth Dance Company Spring Showcase: “Mother.” See May 6 for more details. 1 pm

Love Street Playhouse presents “Enchanted April” at 126 Loves Ave., Woodland. See May 5 for more details. 2 pm

Calendar of Events & Activities (cont'd)

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Oregon Children’s Theatre Young Professionals Company presents “Impulse: Sweet 16” at Brunish Theatre, Portland. See May 5 for more details. 2 pm

Northwest Children’s Theater Catalyst presents “Cinderella” at The Judy, Portland. See May 5 for more details. 2:30 pm

Vancouver Master Chorale presents “A Glimpse of Heaven” at First Presbyterian Church, Vancouver. See May 6 for more details 3 pm

VSO Chamber Concert Series presents Haydn “La Passione” at Royal Durst Theater at VSAA, 3101 Main St., Vancouver. Tickets $30 at vancouversymphony.org. 3 pm

11 THURSDAY

Parks Foundation Annual Luncheon at AC Hotel 333 W Columbia Way, Vancouver. 2023 Community Grants and 2023 Florence B Wager awards will be announced. Registration $75-$80 at parksforclark.org. 12-1 pm

Metropolitan Performing Arts presents

“Bare: A Pop Opera” at 6403 E Mill Plain Blvd., Vancouver. A pulsating, electric. contemporary rock musical, “Bare” follows a group of students at a Catholic boarding school as they grapple with issues of sexuality, identity and the future. *Show may not be suitable for all ages. Tickets $21-$25 at metropolitanperformingarts.org. 8 pm

12 FRIDAY

Rising Heights Dance presents “Peter Pan” at Columbia Theatre, 1231 Vandercook Way, Longview. Come along on a journey beyond the stars as we explore Neverland! Tickets $10-$25 at columbiatheatre.com. 6 pm

Northwest Children’s Theater Catalyst presents “Cinderella” at The Judy, Portland. See May 5 for more details. 7 pm

Love Street Playhouse presents “Enchanted April” at 126 Loves Ave., Woodland. See May 5 for more details. 7:30 pm

Metropolitan Performing Arts presents

“Bare: A Pop Opera” at 6403 E Mill Plain Blvd., Vancouver. See May 11 for more details. 8 pm

13 SATURDAY

Cystic Fibrosis Foundation Vancouver Great Strides at Esther Short Park, Vancouver. Every Great Strides participant is driven by a dream that all people with cystic fibrosis should have the chance to live a long, healthy life. Register at fightcf.cff.org. 8 am-12 pm

Camas Plant & Garden Fair in Downtown Camas. Held the day before Mother’s Day, the plant fair draws in thousands of people to enjoy and explore the amazing selection of plants, trees, garden art and supplies, and much more provided by dedicated local growers and vendors. Kids’ activities, raffle prizes, live music, fresh food, and the shops and restaurants of Downtown Camas all add to the community experience. 9 am-4 pm

Downtown Alley Flea Market at Kindred Homestead Supply, 606 Main St., Vancouver. With over 30 vendors, support your local community of collectors, makers, movers and shakers. 9 am-4 pm

Northwest Children’s Theater presents “Elephant & Piggie’s We are in a Play” at The Judy, Portland. See May 6 for more details. 11 am & 2 pm

Northwest Children’s Theater Catalyst presents “Cinderella” at The Judy, Portland. See May 5 for more details. 12 pm & 4 pm

Oregon Children’s Theatre presents “Where the Mountain Meets the Moon” at Newmark Theatre, Portland. See May 6 for more details. 2 pm & 5 pm

Rising Heights Dance presents “Peter Pan” at Columbia Theatre, Longview. See May 12 for more details. 6 pm

Love Street Playhouse presents “Enchanted April” at 126 Loves Ave., Woodland. See May 5 for more details.

7:30 pm

Metropolitan Performing Arts presents “Bare: A Pop Opera” at 6403 E Mill Plain Blvd., Vancouver. See May 11 for more details. 8 pm

14 SUNDAY

Wellness in the Park at Esther Short Park, Vancouver. Visit your local gyms, healthcare and wellness providers in the park! Take an exercise class, listen to music and more.

8 am-4 pm

Master Gardener Foundation of Clark County Mother’s Day Plant Sale at 78th Street Heritage Farm, 1919 NE 78th St., Vancouver. Open to the public, no appointments needed. 9 am-3 pm

Northwest Children’s Theater presents “Elephant & Piggie’s We are in a Play” at The Judy, Portland. See May 6 for more details. 11 am & 2 pm

Oregon Children’s Theatre presents “Where the Mountain Meets the Moon” at Newmark Theatre, Portland. See May 6 for more details. 11 am & 2 pm

Love Street Playhouse presents “Enchanted April” at 126 Loves Ave., Woodland. See May 5 for more details. 2 pm

Northwest Children’s Theater Catalyst presents “Cinderella” at The Judy, Portland. See May 5 for more details. 2:30 pm

17 WEDNESDAY

Soul! at Kiggins Theatre, 1011 Main St., Vancouver. The sultry and soulful Shelly Rudolph takes the stage for a special concert to benefit SW WA Center for the Arts’ “Uplift!” children’s project. Shelly will be joined by jazz innovator, pianist Tom Grant, along with Dan Gildea, Renato Caranto, Bill Athens, Edwin Coleman III and Paul Mazzio. Aerialist Rebecca Palmer with Aerial Muse Collective will accompany Ms. Rudolph with a special choreographed performance. Tickets $30 at kigginstheatre.com. 6 pm

18 THURSDAY

Metropolitan Performing Arts presents “Bare: A Pop Opera” at 6403 E Mill Plain Blvd., Vancouver. See May 11 for more details. 8 pm

19 FRIDAY

“History Speaks! Will the 2020s Roar Like the 1920s?” at Camas Public Library, 625 NE 4th Ave., Camas. Historian William Woodward charts the eerily familiar developments of a century ago: shattered idealism, social clashes, domestic terrorism, culture wars, disorienting technologies and fearsome disease. How might stories from a particular moment in the past—one with remarkable parallels to the present—shed light on ways for us to move forward? As the 2020s unfold, what conversations should we have? Join the discussion. 6:30 pm

Journey Theater presents “Honk!” at First Presbyterian Church, 4300 Main St., Vancouver. Ugly looks quite a bit different from his darling duckling brothers and sisters. The other animals on the farm are quick to notice and point this out, despite his mother’s protective flapping. Feeling rather foul about himself, the little fowl finds himself on an adventure of self-discovery, all the while unknowingly outwitting a very hungry Cat. Along the way, Ugly meets a whole flock of unique characters and finds out that being different is not a bad thing to be. Tickets $14$19 at journeytheater.org. 7 pm

Northwest Children’s Theater Catalyst presents “Cinderella” at The Judy, Portland. See May 5 for more details. 7 pm

Metropolitan Performing Arts presents “Bare: A Pop Opera” at 6403 E Mill Plain Blvd., Vancouver. See May 11 for more details. 8 pm

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20 SATURDAY

Northwest Children’s Theater presents “Elephant & Piggie’s We are in a Play” at The Judy, Portland. See May 6 for more details. 11 am & 2 pm

Northwest Children’s Theater Catalyst presents “Cinderella” at The Judy, Portland. See May 5 for more details. 12 pm & 4 pm

Comedy for the Kids with Angel Ocasio / Comedia Para Los Niños con Angel Ocasio at Three Creeks Community Library, 800-C NE Tenney Rd., Vancouver. Nationally recognized as a top physical comedian in the Pacific Northwest, Angel Ocasio family entertainment combines physical comedy, magic, juggling, music and his unique style of comedy.

Conocido nacionalmente como el mejor comediante de físico en el Pacifico Noroeste, el entretenimiento familia de Angel Ocasio combina la comedia física, magia, malabarismo, música, y su estilo único de comedia. 1-2 pm

Journey Theater presents “Honk!” at First Presbyterian Church, Vancouver. See May 19 for more details. 2 pm & 7 pm

Oregon Children’s Theatre presents “Where the Mountain Meets the Moon” at Newmark Theatre, Portland. See May 6 for more details. 2 pm & 5 pm

Vancouver Symphony Orchestra

Welcomes Brotons and Bailey at Skyview Concert Hall, 1300 NW 139th St., Vancouver. The thrilling premiere of Maestro Brotons’s 4th symphony, alongside the return of Grammy winner Zuill Bailey with Shostakovich’s virtuosic work for cello. Tickets $36 at vancouversymphony.org. 7 pm

Metropolitan Performing Arts presents “Bare: A Pop Opera” at 6403 E Mill Plain Blvd., Vancouver. See May 11 for more details. 8 pm

21 SUNDAY

Reflection Run at Washougal Waterfront Park, 56 S 1st St., Washougal. Half marathon, 10K, 5K run or walk, honoring the brave men and women who have or are currently serving in our Armed Forces and remembering those who have given the ultimate sacrifice fighting for our freedom. Registration $50-$90 at whyracingevents.com. 8:45 am-12 pm

Micah’s Miles Mini Marathon at Frenchman’s Bar Park, 9216 Lower River Rd., Vancouver. Come join Micah’s Miles for an inclusive 2.62mile running, walking or rolling experience and help build inclusive communities! Registration $45 at micahsmiles.org. 9-11 am

Oregon Children’s Theatre presents “Where the Mountain Meets the Moon” at Newmark Theatre, Portland. See May 6 for more details. 11 am & 2 pm

Metropolitan Performing Arts presents “Bare: A Pop Opera” at 6403 E Mill Plain Blvd., Vancouver. See May 11 for more details. 2 pm

Northwest Children’s Theater presents “Elephant & Piggie’s We are in a Play” at The Judy, Portland. See May 6 for more details. 2 pm

Northwest Children’s Theater Catalyst presents “Cinderella” at The Judy, Portland. See May 5 for more details. 2:30 pm

Southwest Washington Wind Symphony presents “Soundscape” at Union High School, 6201 NW Friberg-Strunck St., Camas. Clarinet virtuoso Matthew Nelson from University of Louisville performs music from classical to classic rock alongside the symphony. 3 pm

Vancouver Symphony Orchestra Welcomes Brotons and Bailey at Skyview Concert Hall, Vancouver. See May 20 for more details. 3 pm

25 THURSDAY

VANtalks at Kiggins Theatre, 1011 Main St., Vancouver. Featuring the very best of our community’s changemakers and thought leaders, VANtalks is a TED Talks-style live event, filled with transformational ideas, stories and local speakers. 2023 theme is “Passion & Purpose.” Tickets $19-$25 at kigginstheatre. com. 6:30 pm

Metropolitan Performing Arts presents “Bare: A Pop Opera” at 6403 E Mill Plain Blvd., Vancouver. See May 11 for more details. 8 pm

26 FRIDAY

Journey Theater presents “Honk!” at First Presbyterian Church, Vancouver. See May 19 for more details. 7 pm

Metropolitan Performing Arts presents “Bare: A Pop Opera” at 6403 E Mill Plain Blvd., Vancouver. See May 11 for more details. 8 pm

27 SATURDAY

Northwest Children’s Theater presents “Elephant & Piggie’s We are in a Play” at The Judy, Portland. See May 6 for more details. 11 am & 2 pm

Journey Theater presents “Honk!” at First Presbyterian Church, Vancouver. See May 19 for more details. 2 pm & 7 pm

Oregon Children’s Theatre presents “Where the Mountain Meets the Moon” at Newmark Theatre, Portland. See May 6 for more details. 2 pm

Metropolitan Performing Arts presents “Bare: A Pop Opera” at 6403 E Mill Plain Blvd., Vancouver. See May 11 for more details 8 pm

28 SUNDAY

Northwest Children’s Theater presents “Elephant & Piggie’s We are in a Play” at The Judy, Portland. See May 6 for more details. 11 am & 2 pm

Metropolitan Performing Arts presents “Bare: A Pop Opera” at 6403 E Mill Plain Blvd., Vancouver. See May 11 for more details. 2 pm

Oregon Children’s Theatre presents “Where the Mountain Meets the Moon” at Newmark Theatre, Portland. See May 6 for more details. 2 pm