• TRUE AND TERRIFYING TALES: Vancouver’s Haunted History, p. 14
Vancouver’s Cultural Arts Renaissance, p. 10
• LEVELING THE PLAYING FIELD in Youth Sports, p. 18
FEATURE ARTICLES
Welcome to Vancouver’s Cultural Arts Renaissance
Find out how the building that previously housed FVRLibraries’ Mill Plain location is being transformed into a hub for arts of all kinds to grow and thrive.
Ghosts, Ghouls and the Great Outdoors: Clark County’s Haunted History Tours
Read about the the historians bringing Vancouver’s past to light at Clark County Historical Museum, and the scary stories they’ve dug up.
Leveling the Playing Field for Youth Sports
Sports help kids develop lifelong healthy habits, but can be financially out of reach for many families. Learn about local organizations doing their part to make sports both fun and affordable.
October '24
Get yours at the library or fvrl.org for access to •books, eBooks, audiobooks for all ages
•movies, educational videos, music
•Free museum and state park passes
•board games and more!
Signing up is free and easy!
fvrl.org/library-accounts
www.VancouverFamilyMagazine.com
Ushering in a New Era of Arts
Could Vancouver be on the cusp of a cultural arts renaissance? Our region has no shortage of talented artisans, dancers, actors, singers, musicians, filmmakers, muralists and artists of all kinds. But spaces for these artists to practice, create and perform is sparse, and often financially impossible. Back in July, I had the pleasure of stepping inside a familiar building that is now being used to bridge that gap. I’d been invited there by Christine Richardson, the founder of theARTScentered, an organization dedicated to supporting and amplifying the arts here in Clark County. The building was familiar because when my now-adult children were young, we spent many hours there, reading, selecting books to take home, participating in free chess clubs and storytimes, and exploring the world through pictures and the written word. For decades, the building on Mill Plain and Fort Vancouver Way was home to the Fort Vancouver Regional Library District headquarters and downtown branch. Walking into the building for the first time in years, I was awash in nostalgia and gratitude for the memories my family had made in that space. But there was no room for sadness, in part because I know all of the books and resources did not disappear, they simply moved to the beautiful, “new,” and much larger downtown library branch. And though that day in July is, so far, the only time I’ve met Richardson in person, her enthusiasm for the arts and for what the former library building can become is contagious and inspiring. If this is what “out with the old, in with the new” feels like, Vancouver is in for a treat. Learn more about theARTScentered’s mission on page 10.
Also in this issue, check out how local historians are uncovering and sharing spookier stories from Clark County’s past (page 14) and how a few local organizations are making youth sports financially feasible for families (page 18).
John and Sovathana and their two daughters, and dog Dolly, love going to the zoo and the park, and playing make believe together. They also love exploring the Columbia River Gorge.
Photo by Lion & Oak Photography 503-847-9650 www.lionandoakphotos.com @lionabdoakphotography @VancouverFamily
Photo by Marie Pham Photography
Camas Native Summits 100 of Washington’s Highest Peaks in One Season
OCTOBER 2024
On June 18, 2023, 20-year-old Andrew Okerlund, of Camas, set out to summit his home state’s 100 tallest peaks, as catalogued by a group of mountaineers in the 1970s who called themselves the Bulgers. The list of mountains has since been known simply as the Bulgers, and Okerlund, an avid outdoorsman since childhood, set out to become the youngest person to climb them all in one season. His trek is chronicled in a documentary film sponsored by promotional partner Range Meals Bars (founded by fellow Camas High School alumnus, Zach Hein) and released last summer in a series of screenings around the Pacific Northwest and California. Okerlund climbed with a variety of experienced partners and photographers throughout the summer, ensuring he was never alone on a climb. “On my first day of the project I had climbed 10 mountains in my life and I started rock climbing
a year ago,” Okerlund says in the film. “To most people, I was ambitious and inexperienced. I knew that, but I also knew I could learn.” He painstakingly mapped out an order and system to reach his goal. Eighty-five days after starting, Okerlund successfully summited the final peak, completing the journey in time to return to his studies at California Polytechnic State University, where he is now a senior. During the summer of 2024, he put his mountaineering skills to use for the state of Washington as a wildland firefighter, climbing recreationally as much as possible when he wasn’t working. What’s next for Okerlund? “Up next is to graduate college,” he says. “[And] I have a mountaineering goal in the Sierra that involves the number 100 but isn’t the 100 highest peaks. I don’t want to say what it specifically is.” Here’s hoping another documentary film will reveal and document his future adventures.
In 2023, Andrew Okerlund summitted 100 of Washington's tallest peaks in one season. The film documenting his adventure is available to watch for free at rangemealbar.com/100summits.
“100 Summits: Bulgers in a Season” can be viewed for free online at rangemealbar. com/100summits.
Trick-or-Treat Event at Evergreen Memorial Gardens Cemetery
Spooky season is here, and what better place to celebrate it than at a cemetery? Last year, Evergreen Memorial Gardens, a cemetery, funeral chapel and crematory in Vancouver, held its inaugural trunk-or-treat event, and the organization will host it again this year. Evergreen’s president, Lindsay Fisher, says the idea came from one of her team members, Angela Ball, a family service counselor. “[Angela] had worked at a previous funeral home who had coordinated a trunk-or-treat in the past,” says Fisher. “She thought it would be something that the community and the staff at Evergreen Memorial Gardens would all really enjoy.” Fisher says she was initially concerned that people would find the idea disrespectful or distasteful, but Ball assured her that wasn’t her experience. “During the planning process we were very focused on making sure that
decorations were not spooky or scary. We wanted everyone to feel welcome and that the decorations were light-hearted and fun.” Each department within Evergreen Memorial Gardens staff chose a different theme, then dressed up in costume and decorated their cars within that theme. “The cemetery office chose a Candyland theme, grounds crew did a construction theme, family service counselors were M&Ms and funeral home chose various movie themes.” The response, says Fisher, was overwhelmingly positive. “We didn’t know how many trick-ortreaters to expect for our first year holding the event. However, attendance far exceeded our expectations. We had to make a quick trip to the store to get more candy to make it through the event! We estimate that there were 400 trunk-or-treaters.” She adds that they didn’t receive any negative feedback at all. “The event was held around our funeral home in the parking lot, so it didn’t infringe on any burials or people visiting their loved ones.”
This year’s second annual trunk-or-treat at Evergreen Memorial Gardens will take place on Thursday, October 24, 5:307 pm. The event is open to all ages and there is no cost to attend. A face painter and hot chocolate bar will be on site, as well as plenty of candy.
Photo courtesy Ross James Photography and Range Meal Bars.
Evergreen Memorial Gardens hosted their first trunk-or-treat event in 2023. Photos by Megan Field.
...REal Talk with
OCTOBER
HOME BUYER CLASS DATES:
In-person classes held at Marshall Community Center Conference Room 1009 E McLoughlin Blvd., Vancouver WA (kitty corner from Clark College) Saturday 10/5 10am-1pm Thursday 10/24 5pm-8pm
CLASS:
10/19 1pm-3pm www.learningtobuyahome.com
OCTOBER SELLER CLASS DATES:
In-person class held at Firstenburg Community Center 700 NE 136th Ave, Vancouver, WA 98684
Saturday 10/26 10am-1pm
VIRTUAL CLASSES:
Thursday 10/16 5:30pm-7:30pm
Saturday 10/19 10am-12pm
www.freesellerclasses.com
Email traciedemars@aol.com for virtual classes Zoom link.
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READ OUR LATEST BLOG POST... I’M PRE-APPROVED! I’M GOOD! ...RIGHT?
HGTV makes Real Estate look glamorous and super easy. All problems are solved in 20 minutes... after commercials, and no one’s hair is ever out of place and as frizzy as mine. Well, as always, I’m not here to sugarcoat anything. The reality of real estate is about as far from HGTV as Vancouver is from Miami...or I am from my high school size 5 jeans.
Buying a home is stressful. You are excited to be purchasing a home for your family, but worried about payments. You most likely have family saying, “when I bought my home....”, and just like any purchase, there is always the wonder if this is the ‘right’ time, or if you should wait. Then you walk into that ‘perfect’ home and it feels like ‘home’. There is nothing like that special place that is yours... your home. And it makes everything that leads up to it ...worth it.
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Tracie...
Welcome to Vancouver’s Cultural Arts Renaissance
By Kristen Flowers
The theatre’s lights dimmed. The audience’s muffled conversations silenced, and all eyes focused on the stage to watch the show before them. Inside the Peanut Gallery Theatre, Christine sat as a young girl. Before her eyes could adjust to the darkened lights, a spotlight appeared on the stage as the colorful cast of characters emerged. These players urged the crowd to join them in whistling, something Christine could not do. Despite this, she was entranced and delighted to join in as best she could. She squealed along with the rest of the crowd, pretending to make a whistling noise.
That day at the Peanut Gallery Theatre was Christine A. Richardson’s first experience in the arts, and it’s a moment that she reflects on fondly. As an adult, Richardson joined nonprofit performing arts groups, working all over the country. But as she returned to Vancouver, where she was born and raised, she thought about the next chapter of her life. Her day job with the Portland Opera provided a lot of contacts and exposure to various artists, and soon, a plan developed. Richardson could use her skills working with nonprofits and artists to bring a vibrant and exciting arts and cultural scene to Clark County.
“I work in theater, so I’m a doer,” she laughs.
In 2021, Richardson created theARTScentered, a nonprofit specifically for local performing artists and arts organizations. “The reason I named it theARTScentered was because centering something is active, and to keep something centered, you have to hold onto it and guide it. And so, to keep the arts centered in everything we’re doing, it is a continual effort on our part.”
Creativity and Cultural Exchange
TheARTScentered operates with a clear vision of becoming a hub for creativity and cultural exchange. As the executive director, Richardson quickly established the reputation of providing resources, space, professional expertise and collaborative opportunities to the local arts community. TheARTScentered exists to help artists navigate the challenges of pursuing their creative endeavors by offering resources and collaborative support from the whole arts community. This support is crucial in a field where artists often face financial constraints, lack of space and limited professional development opportunities.
For artists like Anna B. Cruz, the founder and artistic director of the Vancouver Ballet Folklórico, this support has been invaluable. As a choreographer and dancer, Cruz noticed a lack of cultural arts support in Clark County. Vancouver Ballet Folklórico looks to change that by bringing traditional Mexican dance to families who do not have the resources to enroll their children in a traditional dance studio. In teaching the younger
generations the art of Mexican dance, the roots and traditions of the culture live on in individuals and the community.
Richardson heard about Vancouver Ballet Folklórico and contacted Cruz, asking for a meeting. At that meeting, the two women collaborated on a partnership to continue building on one of the central values of theARTScentered, which is its commitment to promoting equity in cultural access. The organization is built on the tenet that the arts should be accessible to everyone, regardless of age, income, ethnicity or background. This commitment is reflected in theARTScentered’s efforts to create inclusive programs and initiatives that reach underserved communities. “I just feel like finally there is a place that can host us that feels welcoming,” says Cruz. “We would just love to learn that, finally, there will be a space that everybody can use that is not ultra expensive. As a nonprofit, there is not just my group but many other groups that would benefit. I feel like finally, an art center that is multicultural, welcoming and centric is going to be a reality.”
This cultural art reality is something Cruz attributes directly to the hard work of Richardson. “I’m super thrilled that Ms. Christine is in charge because she is passionate about art, listens to different groups and tries to accommodate them. It has to be the right person to advocate for the groups and have a strong relationship with the City of Vancouver.”
continued on page 12
Vancouver Ballet Folklorico performs at the 2023 Dia de Muertos Celebration at Esther Short Park. Photo by Josh Murry.
Welcome to Vancouver’s Cultural Arts Renaissance (cont'd)
continued from page 10
A Space to Thrive
Primarily, theARTScentered assists local artists by providing space for rehearsals, performances and exhibitions. Access to affordable and wellequipped spaces is a significant barrier for many artists. By offering a space, theARTScentered enables artists to practice, create and showcase their work in a professional environment. This accessibility is vital for emerging artists who may not have the means to rent commercial spaces, thus leveling the playing field and fostering a more inclusive arts community.
When Fort Vancouver Regional Library District moved out of their building on Mill Plain Blvd., the City of Vancouver hoped that it could use the space to continue serving the community’s needs. As a former commissioner for the city’s culture, arts and heritage, Richardson once again proved that she was in the right place at the right time to make theARTScentered a reality. “I believe the City understands my moral compass; when I say equity, they understand what I mean by equity and what I mean by uplifting voices. They’ve seen me do those things. And so, they understood that we would be great partners in approaching this project.” TheARTScentered and the City of Vancouver did become partners, and the organization now uses the building as its main area of operation.
Not only does theARTScentered provide space for local artists, but the organization is also invested in the growth of the groups who use their space. Richardson has worked to include providing professional expertise and guidance to artists and arts organizations who come to theARTScentered. This includes workshops, mentorship programs and access to industry professionals who can offer insights into various aspects of the arts, from performance techniques to marketing and business management. These events bring together artists from different disciplines and backgrounds, allowing them to learn from each other and create new, exciting work. Collaboration enhances the creative process and broadens the impact of the arts by reaching diverse audiences and addressing a wider range of themes and issues.
By equipping artists with the skills and knowledge they need to succeed, theARTScentered plays a critical role in building the capacity of the local arts community. “It just goes back to relationship building,” explains Richardson. “I’m not in this just for a oneoff. We want to create relationships so that we can continue to provide support for years to come.”
It’s that relationship-building that will help fund the organization, too. “TheARTScentered is [supported by] mostly private donors,” says Richardson. “We’re reaching out to create some other partnerships that will be part of this financial question. But right now, I’m all for anybody who will listen to me preach about equity and cultural access.”
“We Need Art More Than Ever”
Despite its infancy, theARTScentered’s work is already having a profound impact on the Vancouver community. By supporting emerging and diverse artists, the organization contributes to the cultural vibrancy and quality of life here. A thriving arts community attracts visitors, enhances the city’s appeal and fosters a sense of pride and identity among all residents.
continued on next page
Bottom: Northwest Oil Painters Guild members paint portraits of a live model at a workshop in 2024 at theARTScentered. Photo courtesy theARTScentered.
Top left: Pamela Sue Johnson leads a watercolor workshop in 2024 at theARTScentered. Photo courtesy theARTScentered.
Page 13: Left: Clark County Poet Laureate Susan Dingle of Washougal speaks at a First Friday event in July 2024. Photo courtesy theARTScentered.
Right: Students from the Vietnamese Community of Clark County (VCCC) gather at theARTScentered space on Mill Plain Blvd. Photo courtesy theARTScentered.
Page 12: Top right: A dancer from Cottage Dance Academy strikes a pose. Photo by Heather Newell Photography.
Big kids taking care of little kids
continued from previous page
The arts also have educational and developmental benefits. An arts education fosters creativity, critical thinking and problem-solving skills, essential for success in various aspects of life. TheARTScentered’s commitment to arts education ensures these benefits are accessible to all community members.
“I think that the arts are sustenance,” laughs Richardson. “We turn to poetry, we turn to music, we turn to literature and we turn to movies. We turn to artistic forms. Whether we want to just relax or find solace. Whether we want to be soothed or uplifted from a hectic day, we turn to the arts,” says Richardson. “The data is out there about what the arts and creativity bring to a human brain and heart. We need more love. We need more creativity. We need art more than ever.”
To learn more about theARTScentered, visit them online at theartscentered.org.
Kristen Flowers lives in Vancouver with her husband and daughter, Lilly. You can hear the whole family on 99.5 The Wolf during the Nick and Kristen Morning Show. When she is not working and writing, Kristen loves crafting, watching documentaries and going to escape rooms.
Dr. Todd, DDS Dr. Neil, DDS
Dr. Kim, DDS Dr. Molly, DDS
Ghosts, Ghouls and the Great Outdoors: Vancouver’s Haunted History Tours
By Sarah Mortensen
When the days shorten and changing leaves signal the end of summer, you know there’s little time left to enjoy the outdoors before our infamous Pacific Northwest rains set in. The beautifully brisk autumn season is what sold me on settling in Vancouver when my husband finished graduate school ten years ago, and I keep finding new things to love the longer I live here. As a history lover, I have especially enjoyed visiting places connected to the Lewis and Clark expedition, and learning about the heritage of indigenous tribes. Local historian and author Jefferson Davis shares my fascination for learning the stories of everyday people from the past, not just the ones mentioned in history books. According to Davis, “Once someone begins learning the history of their area, their home, many of them catch the bug, so to speak. They open their minds to asking questions about issues and events they would not consider prior to gaining an interest in history.”
Davis is one of many dedicated and educated volunteers at the Clark County Historical Museum (CCHM) who are “committed to responsible collections stewardship, innovative collaboration and inspiring
exhibitions and programs that engage the community in an exploration of Clark County’s past, present and future.” Some of those engaging programs include a variety of walking tours showcasing different aspects of Clark County’s past. April Pereira, former outreach and program manager at CCHM shared that, “People come back every year, because you get a new tour guide with more information as more history is discovered.” She added, “It’s never the same story twice. Some guides will focus more on one story than another.” The public has loved these tours so much that each year the museum tries to add a new one. Downtown Vancouver tours have focused on notable women of Clark County and arts and entertainment through the ages, while other tours are held in Battle Ground and Downtown Camas. Most tours are offered in the summer, but come autumn, people want to hear a good ghost story.
And here in Clark County, we have more than a few ghost stories.
The Downtown Vancouver Haunted Walking Tour is CCHM’s most popular event, with tickets
events keep growing. I was already fascinated by history, but it was much more meaningful to stand in the places where the stories actually happened. I also liked being with fellow history enthusiasts who asked thought-provoking questions. Walking the streets it was much easier to imagine a time of carriages and street cars, but Pereira’s passion brought the stories to life. “I love getting people engaged in their history and seeing themselves in the story. So often history is presented as something that happened and is now over. Tours are a way to show the ‘aliveness’ of history. That it is a living, breathing entity that we engage with in our daily lives and that we’re still learning about.”
Some of that “aliveness” has lingered.
The Arts and Entertainment tour takes roughly the same 1.5-mile route as the Haunted Walking Tour. “We go down Main Street, visit the museum and places like the Kiggins Theatre and Elks building. Pretty much if it is an old building, it’s got a story,” explained Pereira. After the official tour, Pereira told me about the friendly ghosts who greet people by name, the ones who are perpetually waiting, and the scarier ones who like to make noise
continued on page 16
A historic photo of Downtown Vancouver. Photo courtesy Pat Jollota.
CAT KID COMIC CLUB:
MUSICAL
Book and Lyrics by Kevin Del Aguila
Music by Brad Alexander
continued from page 14
and messes, all of which are the subjects of the Haunted Walking Tour. I also learned about a woman who was possibly the first female to be tried for murder in Clark County—who was acquitted despite multiple eyewitnesses—and who purportedly still haunts the street where it all happened.
“These programs fund more programs. We’d like to create two more additional Haunted Walking Tours [because] we have more research to build new tours,” said Pereira, who explained that most of the stories shared on the haunted tour were collected by Pat Jollota, a local historian who wrote “Darkness Next Door” (Clark County Historical Society, 2002), the first book about the haunted history of Vancouver. For those hungry for more ghostly tales, Davis has written his own series, “Vancouver USA Ghosts” (also available at CCHM), highlighting the hauntings at the Vancouver Barracks/Fort Vancouver.
Davis, who often serves as a guide for CCHM’s walking tours, noticed the demand for more haunted history and created his own tour: Spirit Tales of the Vancouver Barracks. He was gracious enough to give a private tour to VFM editor, Nikki Klock, me and my two preteen kids who like history as much as I do. Now retired, Davis worked as an Army historian at the Vancouver Barracks and has been inside
many of the buildings around what is now referred to as Fort Vancouver National Historic Site. He had so many tales to tell, he had to let us pick which one we wanted at some locations, which included his own encounter with an angry entity at the old hospital!
Davis has a knack for sharing stories in such a way that his audience isn’t sure what direction it will go. One was of a young soldier whose job was to patrol what is now the parade grounds at the barracks during nighttime to make sure those held in jail didn’t escape. Some have reported seeing a ghostly guard with a bayonet pointing and yelling, “Halt, who goes there?” Through relentless research, Davis has come to believe that “the soldier was Tryggve Jgerdwine. He [died by] suicide on December 10th, 1890 [and] was a member of Company F, 14th Infantry.” Not only did I enjoy multiple surprise endings, but I learned other facts, such as times when the Vancouver Barracks became strategic in wars in other parts of the county, how the hospital operated in the past, who certain homes were built for and who still may be residing there.
A perfect mixture of facts and supernatural tales, both tours taught me more about what life was like here in centuries and decades past, making it feel not that long ago. Those
who like true crime or a spooky/cozy story while enjoying the fresh air will love the Haunted Walking Tour, or any of the other tours and talks offered by CCHM. This year the museum celebrated its 60th anniversary with a goal to get 60 more museum members. And though Pereira has moved on to start her own nonprofit dedicated to amplifying the many voices of our community, she hopes more in Clark County will come enjoy and support CCHM’s familyfriendly programs. “I’d like to invite anyone to explore our rich history at the museum! This fall our programs will delve into everything from the weird and sometimes spooky stories of Washington to the development of Vancouver’s alternative education system. And if you’ve ever wondered where the PNW’s love for hops and IPAs began, or who was the first female riverboat captain on the Columbia, this is the place to find out . . . I encourage everyone to come by for a visit and if you like what you see, join us to help keep the story going.”
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 right: The building on Evergreen Blvd. that now houses Biggs Insurance was the original home of the Vancouver Elks, where a friendly ghost is said to have followed the Elks to their new location when they moved out.
Bottom right: A plaque from Clark County History Museum describes the history of John P. Kiggins and Kiggins Theatre.
Bottom second from left: Visitors, residents and tenants of Hidden House Market in Downtown Vancouver have reported a ghost locking people in rooms.
Photos by Sarah Mortensen.
Steve Carroll guides guests on Haunted History Tours through Clark County Historical Museum (CCHM). Photo courtesy CCHM.
LEVELING THE PLAYING FIELD FOR YOUTH SPORTS
By Emily Corak
J
ohn and Leah Lukrofka celebrated as their daughter, Olivia, entered San Francisco University last fall with a scholarship to play Division I soccer. “From her first soccer game in kindergarten, she was the kid who scored ten or twelve goals,” says John. Growing up in Portland in a family of athletes, John has seen firsthand what happens when parents become too invested in their children’s athletic abilities, and he opted not to push. “We just wanted her to play and have fun with her friends,” he says.
But Olivia loved the game with an intense internal motivation, and it wasn’t long until coaches began to take note of her exceptional skills, recruiting her to more advanced teams. “If I get credit for anything,” says John, “it’s for laying off and letting her decide what level she wanted to reach.” By third grade she was playing with neighborhood club teams and by the end of middle school, she was invited to join an elite training league that traveled around the country.
Cost vs. Reward
Being a part of a competitive team meant working with elite trainers, opportunities to travel, incredible friendships and exposure to some of the country’s most important scouts— but it came with a steep price tag. When asked about the cost, John’s first response was a string of expletives. “Many of the families on the team were wealthy and the added expenses weren’t a problem for them. I told my wife I didn’t want to know the cost, and just to tell me if I needed to work more,” he says. “I always needed to work more,” he adds.
As a freelancer with potential for added income, their family was able to make it work, but John acknowledges that even with financial scholarships some clubs offer, the opportunity isn’t accessible to everyone. “A lot of kids aren’t able to get the same exposure because scouts don’t come to high school games; they’re coming to these elite leagues.”
And while Olivia’s story with youth sports resulted in an impressive college scholarship, most families are not getting that kind of financial return on investment. But it isn’t just exceptional athletes at intense competitive levels that are feeling the financial pressures of enrolling their children in athletics. Sara and Jan Maspaitella have three kids in elementary school, and each is enrolled in a sport this fall. “It adds up really quickly,” says Maspaitella. “For the two boys on their football teams, the registration alone was $400, but that doesn’t include the cleats, the practice jerseys, the cups or the mouthguards.” The time commitment adds up fast as well. “We know what we’re getting into; we signed up for it, but it still ends up being practices five nights
a week and there’s an aggressive insistence to participate in fundraising,” Maspaitella adds.
Despite the costs and the time investment, the family loves the benefits of organized sports. “The kids make friends, they build community, they learn discipline, get exercise and learn how to be team players,” says Maspaitella, adding that she is nervous for the future. “I can’t fathom how we’re going to make it work if one of them wants to join a competitive yearlong league.”
Hidden Costs
As the money and time commitments ramp up, fewer parents are able to keep up, and many simply opt out of involving their kids in organized sports altogether. The National Survey of Children’s Health, NSCH, reported that approximately 53.8% of children are involved in organized sports, which is down from 58.4% in 2017. NSCH cites a multitude of reasons for the decline: time constraints, cost and lack of access to facilities or programs. Chris Knoester, professor of sociology and researcher, was
continued on page 20
Left/inset: Olivia Lukrofka's high level soccer participation eventually led to a college scholarship, but costs were high during her younger years. Photos courtesy John Lukrofka.
Right: Sara Maspaitella says the time and money committments add up for her kids' sports.
Photo courtesy Sara Maspaitella.
continued from page 18
quoted in US News stating that “Childhood social class matters when it comes to whether you have the opportunity to participate in organized sports, something which is a relatively recent development.” Knoester’s research found that larger proportions of higher income families are making up sports leagues each year whereas in the 1950s there was almost no class difference in who played sports.
And even when parents want to provide those opportunities for their children, many are quickly finding out how unsustainable it can be. Kelsy Lindgren, a former Vancouver resident who now lives in Spokane, wanted to support her elementary school-aged daughter when she took an interest in competitive cheerleading, but says the costs were overwhelming. “They want you involved in two different types of cheer for crowd presence and for technical skills, plus the uniform, the shoes, five potential hotel stays and additional clinics here and there,” says Lindgren. If your child shows promise, then the costs increase even more. “Our daughter could likely make an elite team next year, but we will have to opt for the junior level since multiple flights per year are not in the cards for us.”
Many parents struggle with the hidden and unexpected expenses that come along with the initial price tag of youth sports. It’s the gear that fit last year, but not for this season. It’s the team sweatshirt that isn’t required but that everyone is wearing. It’s the transportation costs of driving to and from practice and to games and tournaments, not to mention the plane tickets. It’s the team dinners and social commitments, and when did the team snacks get so out of hand? As a kid who grew up on orange slices after softball games, I was shocked the first time I attended my kindergartner’s T-ball game to see bags filled with snacks being doled out to each player.
Affordable Local Programs
But lots of people still want to involve their kids in sports, and for good reason! The physical and mental health benefits, the life lessons and the comradery add value whether our kids are
athletically inclined or not. Unfortunately, the scales are tipping towards sports becoming an exclusive club that not everyone can afford to join. The good news, however, is that some organizations are spotting these trends and resolving to do something about it.
Evergreen School District, for example, decided in 2016 to eliminate all fees associated with sports and performing arts, using levy funds and school booster clubs to support students and remove any barriers that might keep an athlete from participating.
Additionally, Vancouver Parks, Recreation and Cultural Services (PRCS) has always prioritized affordable sports programs for people of all ages. Melody Burton, the department’s communication specialist, says the facilities offer classes for infants all the way up to senior citizens. She says the goal is to be as inclusive as possible for all ages and ability levels: “We have a saying in our department that inclusion means everyone plays!”
needs. The organization is based in Arizona, but available anywhere in the US and aims to connect athletes of all abilities and offer financial support for kids who have disabilities or special needs. Janel Coughran has been involved with the organization for the past two years and loves the empathy, compassion and patience that results from kids of all abilities learning from each other and playing together. “For the kids who get financial support, so often it’s a huge sigh of relief for the families,” says Coughran.
One mother who received support from Kids Playing for Kids described the astronomical costs that usually prevented involvement in sports by saying, “It was the worst feeling as a mom to feel like you have to choose between responsible, wise financial choices for your family and your child’s mental health.”
My own children have become more involved with music and theater than sports thus far, but the one exception is spring softball my daughter plays through Vancouver Girls Softball Association. Besides the convenience of keeping games in one location, costs are kept relatively low, meaning kids of all ages and socioeconomic backgrounds are a part of the league.
Board member and 10U (age 10 and under) league coordinator for the past ten years, Ronda Swanson, says this is intentional. “We’ve always worked to keep things affordable and accessible,” she says. One of the ways they do this is by keeping the organization running with the help of volunteers who greatly support staff, keeping costs minimal. “It’s a lot of work,” she notes, “but it’s so rewarding to see what happens behind the scenes.”
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The City of Vancouver, through PRCS, works with community partners such as Skyhawks, Soccer Shots and Vancouver Volcanoes to offer more classes and clinics for the most popular youth sports. The Youth Opportunity Pass gives middle and high school students access to facilities and after-school activities at Firstenberg and Marshall Community Centers during the school year. Additionally, the department offers scholarships based on residence and household income to reduce costs by 50%. Youth in foster care automatically qualify for the scholarship, but scholarships are available for all Clark County youth and adults with cognitive or developmental disabilities.
A nonprofit organization, Kids Playing for Kids, has identified the immense costs that arise when kids have chronic illnesses or special
Middle/inset: Vancouver Parks, Recreation and Cultural Services provides a variety of affordable sports opportunities for youth.
Photos courtesy City of Vancouver, Washington.
Right: A 12U player takes a great cut at a pitch. Photo courtesy Vancouver Girls
Left: Kelsy Lindgren’s daughter participates in competitive cheerleading, but the family has had to opt out of some opportunities due to huge travel costs. Photo courtesy Kelsy Lindgren.
Softball Association/Ronda Swanson.
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While the league generates funds through the concession stand, they opted to eliminate external fundraising for parents because they wanted to remove any extra burdens. “We also offer scholarships based on financial hardships, and we can usually gift equipment because so much gear has been donated,” says Swanson. It all helps the group to achieve their mission “To foster and promote excellence at all levels of girls fastpitch.” “At every level of play,” she adds, “we want to make sure all girls have an option.”
Whether kids are picking daisies in the outfield or up before school practicing drills that will eventually earn them scholarships, youth sports have undeniable benefits. But participation on teams shouldn’t be limited to only families who are able to pay hefty fees. There are organizations out there who believe in accessibility and are leading the way, but we have a long way to go to level the playing field.
Emily Corak has lived in the Pacific Northwest for the past three decades. A former educator with Vancouver School District, Emily is now a freelance writer, photographer and mom to two young kids with big personalities. She recently earned her MFA in creative writing and, if given the choice, she would spend all her spare cash on travel and books.
The physical and mental health benefits, the life lessons and the comradery of sports add
October '24
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3 THURSDAY
Friend Raiser for SW Washington at Banfield Pet Hospital Headquarters, 18101 SE 6th Way, Vancouver. Learn how Friends of the Children is changing the way they mentor youth and impact generational change in our community. Enjoy a festive cocktail hour, inspiring program and exciting auction packages. Learn more at friendsswwa.org. 5-7 pm
Dragon Boat Community Paddle at Ridgefield Waterfront. Enjoy a fun, team-oriented activity at no cost. Paddlers must be 14 years of age or older to participate. 6:45-9 pm
The Trickster: How This Ancient Archetype Helps to Imagine a Better World at Fourth Plain Community Commons, 3101 E 4th Plain Blvd., Vancouver. Wander and wonder with author Shepherd Siegel through the paradoxes, art, tricks, pranks, and messianic acts that together form this indestructible component of our collective psyche. 7-8 pm
“Murdered to Death” at Magenta Theater, 1108 Main St., Vancouver. Will the murderer be unmasked before everyone else meets their doom or will the audience die laughing first? Tickets $25-$28 at magentatheater.com. Playing Sep 27-Oct 13, showtimes vary.
4 FRIDAY
Camas Pumpkin Pageant and Pixar Costume Contest in Downtown Camas. Enjoy Pixarthemed games and prizes, arts shows and receptions, and live music. 8 am-5 pm
of events activities
Have a community event that you want to share? Go to vancouverfamilymagazine.com/submit-event 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.
Halloween Costumes and Décor
Swap Spooktacular at Kindred Homestead Supply, 606 Main St., Vancouver. Enjoy a spooktacular exchange of costumes and decorations Friday, Oct 4, 10 am-6 pm and Saturday, Oct 5, 10 am-8 pm.
YMCA Mission Advancement
Dinner at AC Marriott Hotel, W Columbia Way, Vancouver. Share and celebrate the impact the Y has had in the community with this multimedia experience. 6-8 pm
CCHM Haunted History Walking
Tours at Clark County Historical Museum, 1511 Main St., Vancouver. Friday and Saturday evenings in Sep and Oct, guides from CCHM will lead tours along Main Street and beyond to uncover the unexplained in this historic city. A mix of stories, memories, research and personal experiences, these tours are a fascinating glimpse through the darker side of history. For additional dates and to purchase ($20) tickets visit cchmuseum.org/programsevents/haunted-walking-tours 7-8:30 pm
5 SATURDAY
BirdFest & Bluegrass in Ridgefield and Ridgefield National Wildlife Refuge. Enjoy family activities, vendors, crafts, children’s entrepreneur market, bluegrass music, Dragon Boat paddling, refuge tours and more. Details and schedule at ridgefieldfriends.org/birdfestbluegrass. 9 am-9 pm
Dozer Day at Clark County Event Center, 17200 NE Delfel Rd., Ridgefield. Dozer Day is a weekend of family fun, putting kids in close contact with heavy construction machinery, and activities like the tire
crawl, kids’ dig, contests and sponsor giveaways—all to benefit children’s charities. Tickets $15 at vancouver. dozerday.org. Sat-Sun 11 am-4 pm
Old Apple Tree Festival at Old Apple Tree Park, 112 Columbia Way, Vancouver. Providing family fun, food, music, and history of Vancouver’s Old Apple Tree, the festival celebrates our community and its rich heritage. This is a free event with activities for children, food for sale, apple tastings and sales, live music, cider pressing and walking tours of Fort Vancouver Village and the Land Bridge. Bring your own apples and a clean container to catch your fresh cider. Approximately 12 pounds of apples will make a quart of cider. 11 am-3 pm
Unleash Your Heart Gala and Auction to benefit Humane Society for Southwest Washington at ilani, 1 Cowlitz Way, Ridgefield. Enjoy a special night with great food, wine, stories of impact and a live auction. Tickets $150 at southwesthumane. org/gala 6-8 pm
8 TUESDAY
West Columbia Gorge Humane Society Supporter Appreciation Night at Grains of Wrath, 230 NE 5th Ave., Camas. Gather to say “thank you” to all supporters-adopters, volunteers, fosters, and donors. 5:30-7:30 pm
9 WEDNESDAY
The Cinema of Horrors DriveIn Experience at Clark County Fairgrounds, 17402 NE Delfel Rd., Ridgefield. This Halloween season enjoy an unforgettable live-action event where your worst nightmares come to life with a cast of characters while the movies shows on the big screen. Tickets $49-$69. For film selections and showtimes throughout Oct and to purchase tickets, visit cinemaofhorrors.com. 7-10 pm
Check out our website for even more local events.
Science on Tap: What Lies Beneath at Kiggins Theatre, 1011 Main St., Vancouver. For more than 40 years, the federal government produced plutonium for America’s nuclear weapons program at Hanford Site, in SE Washington. This talk will give a quick history of Hanford Site and explore past and present effects on the Columbia River. Tickets $15$20 at kigginstheatre.com/movie/ science-on-tap-what-lies-beneath. 7 pm
10
THURSDAY
Battle Ground HealthCare Annual Fundraising Breakfast at Heathman Lodge, 7801 NE Greenwood Dr., Vancouver. Enjoy an engaging program, impactful video and the joy of connecting with one another. Registration $60 at bghealthcare. org/events/health-hope-and-healingfundraiser 8-9 am
World Ballet Company presents “Swan Lake” at Columbia Theatre, 1231 Vandercook Way, Longview. The production will feature richly detailed, hand-painted sets and over 150 radiant costumes that bring fresh representation to this timeless classic. Tickets $50-$95 at worldballetcompany.com/event/ columbia-theatre. Two dates: Oct 1011, both shows 7-9:30 pm
11 FRIDAY
Metropolitan Performing Arts presents “The Great American Trailer Park Musical” at 6403 E Mill Plain Blvd., Vancouver. There’s a new tenant at Armadillo Acres— and she’s wreaking havoc all over Florida’s most exclusive trailer park. When Pippi, the stripper on the run, comes between the Dr. Phil–loving, agoraphobic Jeannie and her tollbooth collector husband—the storms begin to brew. Tickets $21-
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$30 at metropolitanperformingarts. org. Playing Oct 11-27, showtimes vary.
12
SATURDAY
BlackPearl Halloween Horse Show at Clark County Event Center, 17402 NE Delfel Rd., Ridgefield. Events runs Oct 12-13. For a full schedule of events visit blackpearlfriesian.org/events
Chelatchie Prairie Railroad, 207 N Railroad Ave., Yacolt. Step aboard vintage trains and travel back in time to an era when railroads were the lifeblood of American adventure and commerce. For information on dates and times in Oct-Nov visit: tickets. bycx.com.
Northwest Children’s Theater presents “Blue Marigold” at The Judy, 1000 SW Broadway, Portland. Part mystery, part action thriller, and part high school drama, Blue Marigold reminds us that with great power comes great responsibility. Tickets $18-$22 at nwcts.org/shows/ blue-marigold. Playing Oct 12-27, showtimes vary.
13 SUNDAY
Girlfriends Run at Vancouver Waterfront Park, Columbia Way and Esther St., Vancouver. The 18th Annual Girlfriends Run offers a half marathon, 10K and 6K designed specifically for women to get together to do something good for themselves and to help support a women’s cause. Registration $50-$92 at whyracingevents.com 9-11 am
Northwest Children’s Theater’s Halloween Ball at The Judy, 1000 SW Broadway, Portland. Enjoy a costume parade, interactive live storytime, a splendiferous dance party, enchanting sing-along and delicious Halloween treats. Tickets $12 at nwcts.org/shows/halloweenball. Happening Oct 13-27, event times vary.
Vancouver Symphony Orchestra Presents a Young Artist Competition at First Presbyterian Church, 4300 Main St., Vancouver. Continuing the exciting competition format of past years, nine of the nation’s finest young musicians will compete in 3 categories: piano, strings and winds/brass. 2-3 pm
Spirit Tales of the Vancouver Barracks History Walk at Vancouver Barracks (Fort Vancouver). Enjoy true spooky stories from historian Jeff Davis as you walk the grounds of what is
now known as Fort Vancouver. For tickets ($15-$20) and more Sep-Oct tour times go to jeffdavisghostguy. com. 7-8:30 pm
14 MONDAY
Witch Wreaths at Camas Public Library, 625 NE 4th Ave., Camas. Enjoy making a witch-themed Halloween wreath, perfect for hanging around the house. For kids in grades 1-5. 4-5 pm
16 WEDNESDAY
Broadway in Portland presents “Wicked” at Keller Auditorium, 222 SW Clay St., Portland. “Wicked,” the Broadway sensation, looks at what happened in the Land of Oz but from a different angle. Tickets $59-$219 at portland. broadway.com/shows/wicked-2
Playing Oct 16-Nov 3, showtimes vary.
17 THURSDAY
Fort Vancouver Regional Library Foundation Authors and Illustrators Dinner and Silent Auction at Hilton Vancouver, 301 W 6th St., Vancouver. Enoy an amazing evening with Laura Dave and help support FVRLibraries programs and services. Tickets $120-$150 at fvrlfoundation.org 5:30-9:30 pm
History on Tap: Weird Washington at Kiggins Theatre, 1011 Main St., Vancouver. Local historian, Jeff Davis, dishes about Washington’s local legends and best kept secrets. Tickets $5. 7-9 pm
18 FRIDAY
The Heart Behind the Badge – A Benefit for PAL of SWWA at Hilton Vancouver, 301 W 6th St., Vancouver. This special night promises to be filled with inspiration, community spirit, and heartfelt appreciation for the dedicated officers who serve youth in our community. Tickets $150 at palofswwa.ejoinme.org/ heartbehindthebadge2024. 6-10 pm
19 SATURDAY
The Grimoire Exhibition at Clark County Event Center, 17402 NE Delfel Rd., Ridgefield. The Grimoire Exhibition Witch Academy and Market emerges for the first time in WA state. Tickets $14-35 at grimoireacademy.com. Event happens Oct 19-20, 12-5 pm
My Gym Halloween Party, 1825 SE 164th Ave Ste 112, Vancouver. Dress up in your favorite costume and enjoy Halloween-themed songs,
games and spooky fun. Registration $25 at mygym.com/vancouverwa/ events 1:30-5 pm
Pumpkin Bash: Friends of Washougal Community Library Fundraiser at Get To-Gather Farm. 1913 SE 303rd Ave., Washougal. Celebrate the spooky season with the Friends of Washougal Community Library at this fundraiser at Get To-Gather Farm for the new Washougal Community Library building project. This bash will have a variety of pumpkin- and Halloween-themed activities, including pumpkin carving, a costume contest, pumpkin beer, Pumpkin Smashing Olympics and more! This event is for ages 21+. Tickets $40 at bit.ly/ PumpkinBash2024. 4:30-10 pm
20 SUNDAY
Southwest Washington Wind Symphony 20th Anniversary Season Opener at Union High School, 6201 NW Friberg-Strunk St., Camas. Enjoy a “Celebrations” concert conducted by Patrick Murphy from University of Portland. Free admission. 3-4 pm
Vancouver Master Chorale presents Verdi Requiem at Skyview High School, 1300 NW 139th St., Vancouver. Verdi’s masterpiece is a lush, operatic setting of the Requiem mass full of sound and fury. Join VMC, together with our friends the Southwest Washington Symphony, in an evening of transcendent beauty and loss from the Italian Romantic master at the height of his powers. Tickets $30 at vancouvermasterchorale.org. 3 pm
23 WEDNESDAY
Camas Boo Bash 2024 in Downtown Camas. Bring the whole family down for some Downtown Camas trick-or-treating. 3-5 pm
24 THURSDAY
Trunk or Treat at Evergreen Memorial Gardens, 1101 NE 112th Ave., Vancouver. All ages are welcome at this free Trunk or Treat. 5:30-7 pm
Coming Home: How the Nez Perce Tribe Regained Their Cultural Heritage at Red Cross Building, 605 Barnes St., Vancouver. The Historic Trust and Humanities Washington partner to present a discussion with Trevor James Bond. Belongings deeply important to tribal communities are often housed in museums far away from those communities. In this talk, hear
the remarkable story of how the Nez Perce Tribe and their allies purchased the largest and oldest collection of Nez Perce material culture—including dresses, shirts, and other regalia—from a museum over 2,000 miles away from their homeland. 6-8 pm
26 SATURDAY
Camas Parks & Rec Pumpkin Party at Liberty Middle School, 1612 NE Garfield St., Camas. The entire family is invited for a fun-filled night of carnival-themed activities, including carnival games, carnival prizes, the annual costume contest, inflatable games, photo booth (bring your camera!) and simple fall crafts. No registration required for the costume contest. Children attending must be accompanied by an adult. Bring your canned food or non-perishable items to benefit our local Treasure House. Canned food donors will be eligible to win the night’s raffle basket. 6:30-9 pm
27 SUNDAY
Scary Run at Washougal Reflection Plaza, 1703 Main St., Washougal. Get your Halloween costumes and be prepared to be scared out of your wits. Registration $50-$92 at whyracingevents.com/scary-run/ 8:30-11 am
Trunk-or-Treat at Vancouver Mall, 8700 NE Vancouver Mall Dr. Wear your costumes and “trunk-or-treat” with Orchards Cars & Coffee throughout the mall parking lot. 4-7 pm
29 TUESDAY
Teen Halloween Party at La Center Community Library, 1411 NE Lockwood Creek Rd., La Center. Teens, it’s a free party just for you! Enjoy scary movies, spooky crafts and lots of free pizza and drinks. For ages 13-18. 6-8 pm
31 THURSDAY
Trick-or-Treating at Vancouver Mall, 8700 NE Vancouver Mall Dr. Wear your costumes and trick-ortreat at retailers throughout the mall. 5-8 pm
PUMPKIN PATCHES
Looking for harvest time fun for the whole family? Go to Vancouver FamilyMagazine.com/ pumpkin-patches-invancouver to find local pumpkin patch festivities and details.
