Chef Paul Bosch
By Kevin Sage, AIA
Silly60 Second Meditation
Close your eyes.
Unless you are using scissors. In that case, close your emotional eyes.
Take a deep breath in… through your nose… and out through your Wi-Fi router. Let go of the tension in your body. Release your grip on expectations. Release your grip on the TV remote. It was never really yours.
Now, picture a peaceful landscape. Nearby is a babbling brook. The brook is babbling about cryptocurrency. Politely ask it to stop. You are surrounded by calm. You are also surrounded by furniture with suspiciously sharp corners. Accept both. Breath in...
You are a cloud. Light. Drifting. Misunderstood. Breathe out.
Now picture yourself walking through a meadow. A friendly goat approaches named Dennis. He offers you a coupon for half off soup. Take it. You’ve earned this. Take another breath in. Hold it...
Realize you forgot what you were holding it for.
Exhale anyway.
You are grounded. You are present. You are being judged by your cat but you know your worth and are ok with it.
As we end this meditation, slowly return to the room. Return to reality. Return your library books. You’re never going to read them. Namaste.
Meet the Team
Drew Shaffer Executive Director dshaffer@thespringsliving.com
Ryan Latour Business Office Manager rlatour@thespringsliving.com
John Heueisen Building Engineer jheueisen@thespringsliving.com
Dana Jensen Relationship Manager djensen@thespringsliving.com
Laura McCormack Director of Resident Engagement lmccormack@thespringsliving. com
Emily Smith Staffing Dev. Coordinator esmith@thespringsliving.com
Paul Lemke Director of Food & Beverage plemke@thespringsliving.com
Heather Brock Health Services Administrator hbrock@thespringsliving.com 1015 W Columbia Way, Vancouver, WA 98660 360.696.9400
*Some articles and images in this magazine were created using AI tools. To provide transparency, this content is labeled “AIA” to denote AI Assistance.
“GIVE BACK,
AISLE
FOUR!”
The Local Food Pantry With a Twist
By Kevin Sage, AIA
FISH (Friends in Service to Humanity) grocery store in Vancouver, WA, isn’t just another pantry—it’s an essential lifeline for thousands facing food insecurity in our community. Founded in 1969, this nonprofit offers free, nutritionally balanced groceries to anyone in need. Located conveniently at 906 Harney Street, FISH welcomes residents to shop freely, Monday through Friday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., and every fourth Saturday from 10 a.m. to noon.
Walk into FISH, and you’ll find an atmosphere that’s respectful and empowering. Unlike typical pantries, FISH lets visitors “shop” the aisles themselves— selecting from fresh meats, dairy, produce, pantry staples, and hygiene products. Amid soaring grocery prices and rising living expenses, more than 3,500 families—about 12,000 individuals monthly—now rely on FISH, resulting in nearly two million pounds of food distributed annually.
To keep pace with this demand, FISH launched its “Growing to Fill The Need” expansion, enhancing its capacity to serve even more residents effectively. The nonprofit’s transparency and responsible management have earned a Four-Star rating from Charity Navigator, reassuring donors and volunteers that every contribution matters.
Want to make a real difference? You’re invited to attend a live presentation at the Rainier Theater, Monday, April 14th at 2:00 PM. Volunteer and Pantry Manager Lauren Young will share how you can get involved—whether by assisting as a floor host, managing check-in/out stations, working at the snack window, or stocking shelves. It’s an easy way to give back to your neighbors, and you’ll help ensure no one in our community faces hunger alone.
Come learn more and find your role in this vital mission.
April is a month that holds a particular magic for me—a month that marks the first whispers of spring, when the Northwest begins to stir with life and offers up some of its most exciting produce. Local asparagus, fava beans, spring garlic, onions, leeks, radishes— the earth, it seems, begins to stretch and yawn after the long winter and presents its bounty for the taking. Among these treasures, however, there’s one special gift that stands out above the rest, a gift that never fails to send a shiver of excitement down my spine: the morel mushroom.
But as I reflect on this time of year, I can’t help but look back at my childhood. I grew up with the privilege of learning not only how to appreciate fresh, locally grown produce, but also how to cultivate it. Yet, ironically, many of the items I hold dear today—those same radishes, carrots, tomatoes, and squash—were not things I truly enjoyed as a child. The taste of earth and sun was something I grew into.
Some of my fondest memories are tied to this month—April was the time we began preparing the soil for our annual garden, getting our hands dirty in the dirt and anticipation building for the bounty that would come by the end of the month. My family always grew tomatoes, cucumbers, radishes, carrots, squash, a variety of lettuces, and currants. Sometimes we’d try our hand at strawberries or dabble in other fruits, but these were the staples—the heartbeat of our garden.
The Season of Discovery
By Chef Paul Bosch
I spent the first years of my life in Minnesota, and while the earth prepared for spring’s growth, so too did my life shift into another rhythm. It was during these years, as the ice and snow thawed, that I began to embrace fishing—an activity that would go on to shape my connection to food in ways I could never have predicted. It was at a place called Leech Lake, a name steeped in local lore, that I discovered one of my all-time favorite fish to eat:
A journey from garden to table
the walleye.
The memory of that first fishing trip is as vivid today as it was back then. I was visiting my best friend’s cabin, nestled by the lake, when we decided to embark on an adventure. We packed up lawn chairs, bait—both minnows and worms—and a cooler brimming with water, ice, and Gatorade, then headed for the dock. It was the kind of place where time slowed down, where the quiet was almost deafening, and the only sounds were the soft splash of water and the distant call of birds.
We set up camp, casting our lines into the lake, waiting with a quiet patience that only fishermen understand. Hours passed. Light nibbles came and went, and every now and then, an accidental perch would find its way onto the hook. But no walleye. No prize fish. Determined, we pulled out a detailed map of the lake, studied it like a treasure map, and found that we were fishing in the wrong place. Walleye, it seemed, had a specific zone—a place marked on the map, almost like a secret garden for fish.
So, we jumped in his family’s boat, setting off for a new fishing ground. The journey took us 45 minutes, the boat slicing through the water as we ventured farther and farther from shore. We dropped anchor, cast in our lines, and waited.
It wasn’t long before I felt a pull on my rod—at first, just a slight tug, but then, the line went taut, the rod bent in an arch that sent a rush of adrenaline through my body. I fought back the surge of excitement and kept reeling in, letting out some line, then pulling back, the rhythm of the struggle almost hypnotic.
Then, it happened.
Out of nowhere, a flash of silver broke the surface of the water—so close I thought I could reach out and touch it. And then, just as quickly, it disappeared. The rod jerked violently in my hands, and I was pulled back, almost tumbling into the lake. My line had snapped, severed clean in two.
Confused and a little bit stunned, I examined the break. Whatever had taken my bait was no walleye. It was something else entirely. After a quick consultation of the lake map, we realized that we had been fishing near the designated “muskie zone.” Muskies, the apex predators of the lake, are monstrous fish with jaws full of razor-sharp teeth. Some say they have upwards of 500 teeth—though most people laugh it off as a fishing tale. But after that experience, I had no doubt.
An hour later, with a new leader on my line, I finally hooked the fish I had been waiting for—the elusive walleye. It was a proud moment, one that felt like a victory I had earned through patience, perseverance, and a little bit of luck. When we returned to the cabin, the celebration began in earnest. My friend’s family demonstrated the art of cleaning the fish—an act that felt almost sacred—and then we cooked it outside over a fire pit, on a cast-iron skillet that had been in the family for generations.
The preparation was simple—just butter, salt, and a squeeze of lemon. There was no need for anything more. We sat around the fire, eating that first walleye, savoring its tender, delicate flavor. It was something I had never tasted before—something I had worked so hard to catch. And in that moment, I felt a deep connection not only to the fish, but to the land, the water, and the history of those who had cooked before me.
That experience, that meal, was a turning point. It wasn’t just about the fish or the technique. It was about understanding where food comes from—about respecting the effort it takes to grow, catch, and prepare a meal. It helped me understand that food is far more than just something
we eat to survive. It’s a story, a memory, a connection to the world around us.
Over the years, my appreciation for seasonality, locality, and the fleeting nature of certain ingredients deepened. The scarcity and exclusivity of some foods only made them more special. And all of this— this deep respect for food and its journey— shaped me as a chef. It influenced how I cooked, how I approached flavors, and, most importantly, how I shared meals with others.
It was in those early years that I came to realize something fundamental about cooking—and about life itself. A lesson I carry with me every day. As Thomas Keller once said:
“ “
In cooking, like in love, the secret ingredient is always passion.” Without passion, food can become just a task, a rote process. But with passion, it becomes an experience, an opportunity to connect, to learn, and to grow.
In the end, it’s not just about what we eat, but about how we approach the food we prepare. It’s about the journey, the stories, and the passion that goes into every bite. And that’s something I carry with me— something that started in a Minnesota garden and a boat on Leech Lake, and continues to shape me as I cook, eat, and live.
EMPLOYEE SPOTLIGHT Ryan LaTour
By Kasi Gurnett
Ryan LaTour, our Business Office Manager, grew up in a small Massachusetts town called Blackstone. With New England states being so close together, he had Providence, Rhode Island 20 minutes to the south and Boston, Massachusetts about 45 minutes to the north.
Ryan was a professional singer and actor and growing up, his best friend’s mom was his first vocal coach and mentor. One of the first songs he learned to sing was a song called “The Curse”, which is from a very obscure kids movie musical. Even though he was initially trained as an opera singer, he didn’t have the drive or the intense patience for it. Favorite pieces in his repertoire range from everything including Gilbert & Sullivan, Rodger’s & Hammerstein, Stephen Sondheim, and much more.
Ryan was able to play Barret, one of his dream roles, in a beautiful and relatively unknown musical interpretation of Titanic (nothing to do with the movie). Barrett’s main solo just builds and builds and allows the performer to vocally and emotionally soar.
Did you know that Ryan has an impressive sock collection?! He received a pair of fun socks for Christmas, started wearing them, and people commented. He then continued to get socks as gifts. He has so many pairs of socks, it would take a good 3 weeks before he could cycle through them all. When you see Ryan ask to see what socks he has on!
Ryan isn’t just a Business Office Manager, but someone with passion, a musical talent, a warm heart, and a gentle soul. He can also be quite stubborn as he is half French and half Italian.
TWO Apartments and a Bottle of WINE TWO Apartments and a Bottle of WINE
By Kevin Sage, AIA
It started with a glass of wine.
Not a fancy vintage—just your average weekday pour between two suburban moms in Portland who had no idea they were about to launch a decades-long friendship filled with eerily matched birthdays, synchronized marriages, connected families, and now… side-by-side apartments at The Springs at the Waterfront.
This is the story of Irma Heredia and Sandy Kondos— neighbors turned lifelong friends who somehow ended up under the same roof again, laughing at the odds and living life like it’s happy hour.
Irma moved from Argentina to Los Angeles in 1968, then up to Portland. Sandy, a lifelong Portlander, happened to live across the street. Their kids became fast friends. One day, Irma’s son popped into Sandy’s house and said, “You need to meet my parents. Come to dinner.” Sandy, the rule-follower, replied, “You can’t just invite people over without asking your mom!” He shrugged. “She won’t care.” She didn’t.
Sandy came over, wine in hand—and by the end of the night, they’d discovered they were born one day apart, married the same year, and their mothers and sisters even shared birthdays. It was spooky. And perfect.
They lived across from each other for 16 years—raising kids, swapping meals, waving from porches. When Irma moved to Vancouver, Sandy followed later. Their bond stayed strong: birthday check-ins, wine nights, their grown kids still texting. When Sandy’s husband passed away, the very first people she and her family saw—completely by chance—were the Heredias, waiting for a table at the Spaghetti Factory. Some friendships are simply meant to stay.
Then came the free lunch.
Irma and Sandy toured The Springs, just for fun. “I kind of love it,” Sandy admitted. “Me too,” said Irma. The hesitation wasn’t about the place—it was gorgeous—it was about the leap. But then Irma said, “If you come, I’ll come.”
By that weekend, both sets of adult kids had toured and approved. Two houses hit the market. Two apartments were claimed. And two best friends moved in—again.
Now, they text most mornings: “Going to breakfast?” They play cards after dinner, plan European cruises, and travel well together. Sandy sleeps in. Irma showers early. No pressure. No plan. Just friendship at its best.
Downsizing had its moments—Sandy’s diving into decorating while Irma kept her familiar bed for comfort—but both are settling into the rhythm of this new chapter. They’re eyeing the pool, watching the weather, and dreaming of long walks again.
“I was happy in my old place,” Sandy says, “but here, I got to choose. It feels like mine.” Irma smiles and adds, “They’ll carry me out. I’m home.”
Their friendship—fifty years strong—is still growing. Their kids are proud. Their families stay close. And The Springs is now the latest canvas for their shared story.
“I think our husbands are up there,” Sandy says, lifting an invisible glass. “Saying, ‘Good job, ladies.’”
And honestly? We couldn’t agree more.
Because in the end, it wasn’t the lunch that brought them here. It was love. Loyalty. And the kind of connection that turns any place—no matter how new—into home.
Room Key
01 | Ground Floor
Fireside Lounge - FS
Fancho’s - PUB
Lobby – LOB
Pacific Ridge – PR
02 | Second Floor
Inkspot Art Studio – INK
Ranier Theater – TH
Three Sisters – 3S
Windriver Gym – GYM
Windriver Swim & Soak – POOL
Windriver Exercise Studio – ST
07 | Seventh Floor
Aspen Peak Restaurant – APR
Lillian’s Bistro – LIL
Camas Creek - CC
Chinook Private Dining - CPD
09 | Ninth Floor
Central Bark – BARK
Four Peaks Wine Bar – 4P
Table Rock Terrace – TR
Room Abbreviations, listed above, are used for each event. Starting times listed are the departure times for events leaving the community.
All details in the Lifestyle Magazine are subject to change. Refer to Digital Signage and the TSL App for the most current details, prices, and to sign-up for events.
APRIL GAMING
Table Games!
Sunday is for gaming! This month, we’re going to try out some board games such as Scrabble, Dominoes, and more!
1:00pm - Sundays – 3S
Shanghai Rummy
Learn how to play this Rummy card game, based on gin rummy and a variation of Contract Rummy played by 3 to 8 players (also known as “California Rummy”).
10:30am Mondays & 6:30pm Wednesdays-- 3S
Black Jack
Kyle is the dealer and everyone gets free poker chips! Play for monthly prizes and bragging rights!
3:00pm – Wednesdays - 3S
Mahjong
Learn this game of skill, strategy, and luck. Played by 4 players, it originated in China in the 19th century.
1:00pm – Tuesdays - 3S
Bingo
You asked for it…we’re delivering! Bring your lucky charm and try your luck with some BINGO cards. Prizes awarded based on the game.
3:00pm – Sundays - 3S
Hand and Foot Card Game
Hand and Foot uses five to six decks of cards with Jokers. Object of the Game: Be the first to get rid of all your cards, ‹hand› first, and then ‹foot›. Easy to learn!
10:30am – Wednesdays – 3S
Cards and Marbles
This game is easy to learn and can be played with up to 8 players! Similar to the Board game Sorry! Come learn.
1:00pm - Thursdays – 3S
PRESENTATIONS
Fort Vancouver History with Tammy Williams: Japanese Mariners
How did three Japanese sailors end up at Fort Vancouver in 1834? What is known about their time here, and what were their fates? And, how did their experiences influence popular culture, both here and abroad?
Full-time RVer and Resident Volunteer-inParks, Tammy Williams, will be leaving the area in the fall, but before she moves on to her next volunteer gig, we’ve asked her to share this fascinating story with all of you.
Tammy is a former trial attorney and selfprofessed “armchair historian” whose tours have delighted fort visitors. She is also a “pop culture connoisseur,” so be prepared for a presentation based on historical records, mixed with a bit of whimsy.
2:00 PM – Thursday, 4/10 – TH
Volunteer for FISH with Volunteer and Pantry Manager
Are you interested in giving back to your community in a simple way? Lauren Young from FISH will be coming to share information about how you can volunteer just a few blocks north of us on the waterfront. FISH is Food style shopping pantry. Thehy allow clients to come and “shop” like in a grocery store. You can get involved by being a floor host, working check in/check out desk, working the snack window, and stocking shelves. Lauren will come and share information and answer questions about the opportunities available.
2:00 PM – Monday, 4/14 – TH
“Introduction to American Indian Cultures”
New resident Theresa Schenck is excited to share her passion and expertise with our community. Theresa was a Fullbright Scholar and taught at the University of Wisconsin, WSU, and the University of Manitoba. Her ancestors are the Blackfeet of Montana, Ojibwe of Lake Superior, Huron of Lake Huron, and Cree of Canada. Her unique perspective, experience, and fascinating artifacts make for an enjoyable presentation!
2:00PM – Monday, 4/28 – TH
IN OUR THEATER
Broadway on Screen: “Jesus Christ Superstar”
Experience the timeless story of Jesus’ final days told through powerful music, stunning choreography, and unforgettable performances. With its bold mix of rock, opera, and theater, this is an unforgettable extravaganza you won›t want to miss!
7:00pm - 4/18 – TH
Semyon Bychkov conducts Mahler 2
Symphony on Screen: Mahler - Symphony No. 2 ‹Resurrection› (2018)
Gustav Mahler’s Symphony No. 2, known as the «Resurrection» Symphony, is one of the most powerful and emotional symphonies ever composed. Written between 1888 and 1894, it explores themes of death, the afterlife, and the triumph of the human spirit, making it particularly fitting for Easter and spiritual reflection. Semyon Bychkov leads the London Symphony Orchestra in this 2018 performance from the Barbican Centre.
7:00pm - 4/25- TH
GET SOCIAL
Storytelling in Camas Creek: “Fools & Tricks”
Get in the spirit of April Fools Day by sharing a true-life story (5-minute limit) about an experience, memory, or instance where you were fooled, played one of your best pranks, or completely misread a situation. Laura hosts and starts us out with an ice breaker and a fool hardy beverage to get our yarns spinning! Sign up on the TSL app.
7:00pm – Tuesday, 4/1– CC
Town Hall
Join us for our monthly Town Hall meeting, where the Executive Director will share important updates about the community. This is a great opportunity to stay informed, ask questions, and engage in discussions about the latest news and developments.
10:30am – Wednesday, 4/9 – 3S
Song Circle with Lindsie
Everyone is welcome to this friendly and engaging music circle with our talented server Lindsie! Bring an instrument, or just sing a long! Songbooks provided. Sign up!
1:00pm – 2nd Wednesday of each month –4/9 -- 3S
Corks and Cheers! with C.E. Wilson
Enjoy a mid-week happy hour with prospective residents featuring wines from Valo Cellars, delicious appetizers, and rock n’ roll with C.E. Wilson! Sign up on the TSL app.
3:00pm - Wednesday, 4/9 – PUB
Moonshine on 9!
Now on the 2nd floor! As a bartender, Cody loves building shared experiences with people, and he truly believes there›s something wonderfully human about coming together over a drink. Enjoy a new cocktail each week as we create fond memories together filled with laughter, conversation, and the simple pleasure of sharing time with friends.
7:30-8:30pm - Wednesdays – 4P
Waterfront Walking Group
Meet your neighbors and get a little exercise on the beautiful Waterfront Path. *Sign-up required on TSL App or Concierge Desk.
3:00pm - Wednesdays – LOB
New Resident Orientation & Luncheon
Our new resident orientation is your essential guide to life at The Springs. Department managers will be present to share community amenities and valuable tips. It’s your chance to get all your questions answered and feel right at home.
10:00 – Friday, April 11 – 3S
Pecan Challenge
April is national Pecan Month! Put your cooking skills to the test by creating a favorite or new recipe to enter into our “Pecan Challenge”. Some ideas include pecan cookies, pie, turtles, scones, pralines, fudge, and more! Sign up to submit your homemade goodies in this event, or just to taste test! We’ll have fun tasting and awarding our favorite recipe!
3:00 – Wednesday, 4/16 – 3S
Spaghetti Western Night
Put on your cowboy hat, enjoy a whiskey drink, and enjoy the film that initiated the popularity of the spaghetti Western genre. A Fistful of Dollars (1964) was directed by Sergio Leone and starring Clint Eastwood in his first leading role, alongside Gian Maria Volonté, Marianne Koch, Wolfgang Lukschy, Sieghardt Rupp, José Calvo, Antonio Prieto and Joseph Egger. The film was an international co-production between Italy, West Germany and Spain. It is considered a landmark in cinema and one of the greatest and most influential films of all time. It was followed by For a Few Dollars More and The Good, the Bad and the Ugly, both also starring Eastwood.
7:00pm – Tuesday, 4/22– TH
Coffee Chat with Drew
A casual morning coffee with Executive Director Drew Shaffer for an opportunity to learn more about your community and ask questions.
8:45am – Wednesday, 4/23 – 3S
Chef Chat
A monthly conversation with our Culinary Team! Learn about our upcoming menus and special events, and talk about your experience. Join us on the 2nd floor!
1:30pm – Wednesday, 4/23 – 3S
Aspen Peak Musical Social with Kim & Terry
This talented married duo harmonizes, banters, and quizzes you on musical trivia! This month, they bring their Beatles-themed concert to our 7th floor dining room. Sign up on the TSL app.
1:00pm – Thursday, 4/24– AP
Karaoke
Ready for a night of musical fun? Join us in 3 Sisters for karaoke! Whether you›re eager to grab the mic and belt out your favorite tunes, or just want to relax and enjoy the show, there›s a place for you. Come sing along, listen, and share some laughs with friends. It›s the perfect opportunity to make some musical memories together! Bring your favorite beverages.
7:30 – Tuesday, 4/29 – 3S
Mix n’ Mingle with Springs residents from other Communities
This month, we welcome residents from The Springs at Sherwood, and another busload from The Springs at Lake Oswego! Enjoy munchies and beverages with them in 3 Sisters before Laura takes them on a tour.
2:00 – Thursday, 4/3 – 3S Lake Oswego
2:00 – Wednesday, 4/30 – 3S Sherwood
Happy Hour with Lauren Sheehan
Lauren Sheehan returns to bring us back some earlier Americana music. She plays a variety of old blues, early jazz, and country roots using her angelic voice and multiinstrumental magic. Dubbed «Portland String Queen» by The Oregonian for her multiinstrumental prowess, Lauren is also known for her unforgettable voice and sings like «an angel with horns”, (Charlie Rowley, fan). She tours, teaches at Pacific University, and has recorded 5 CDs played on radio world-wide, including BBC, NPR, and BB King’s Bluesville. Her music has been catalogued in the Library of Congress, and was recently included on “Sweet Bitter Blues” a compilation CD celebrating living Piedmont blues musicians, produced by Phil. Complimentary bites and sips for residents.
4:00pm – Friday, 4/4 - PUB
make the perfect backdrop for happy hour. She presents her love of the soulful classics of the 60’s and 70’s with a talented local instrumentalist. Complimentary bites and sips for residents.
4:00pm – Friday, 4/11- PUB
We’re excited to welcome this talented vocalist to our happy hour stage! Phillip-Michael was born in Michigan, forged in Chicago, thrived in Nashville, TN, and now tours all over. He grew up with B.B. King calling him “nephew” and calls his music «Dive Bar Soul,» a blend of Indie Rock storytelling and the passion of the blues. In 2022, he caught the attention of Ellen Degeneres who invited him to perform on her final season. Complimentary bites and sips for residents.
4:00pm – Friday, 4/18– PUB
Get ready to hit the dance floor! Popular Demand is returning to play your favorite
Cindy Michelle Duo
Cindy’s vocals and natural stage presence
Happy Hour with Phillip-Michael Scales
Happy Hour with Popular Demand
rock n’ roll hits from the 60s and 70s! Complimentary bites and sips for residents.
4:00pm – Friday, 4/25 – PUB
STAY FIT
Hike with Austin!
Join Austin for a hiking adventure on easy, flat trails just a 20-minute drive away. Yearround outdoor exercise boosts your mood, improves fitness, and strengthens your immune system—all while enjoying stunning landscapes and fresh air. These guided walks are perfect for all fitness levels, so dress for the weather and get moving with new friends! *Sign-up required on TSL App or Concierge Desk.
April 4th: Lacamas Heritage Trail - - 3-6.7 miles, 216ft elevation gain (Level: EASY)
April 18th: Battle Ground Lake – 2.6 miles, 272ft elevation gain (Level: EASY)
1:00pm Alternate Fridays – LOB
Latin Dance with Laura
This month, we’ll be learning the salsa, meringue, and more so that we know the moves for our Cinco de Mayo party! Join Laura at Fancho’s Pub for beginner-friendly line dances! Get active and have fun in a relaxed, non-threatening space on the hardwood floor. Perfect for exercise and enjoyment!
1:30pm Fridays - PUB
Vancouver Hearing Clinic
Have your hearing or hearing aids checked out or cleaned with this mobile service! Sign up for a 20-minute slot, or a 60-minute slot for a hearing test. Sign up with Concierge.
2:00-4:00pm, Tuesday 4/8 – CPD
Total Body Tune-up
Build muscle, increase stamina, and improve balance. With targeted exercises and expert guidance, you’ll feel stronger, more confident, and ready to take on the day.
9:30am Mon, Wed, Friday – ST
Fitness at Your Fingertips
Meet our Fitness Coach Austin Karn and get a feel for our equipment and fitness spaces. Discover what kind of movement you enjoy!
11:30am – Monday -Friday – GYM
Aqua HIIT
High-Intensity Interval Training (HIIT) in water. This class involves short bursts of intense activity followed by brief periods of rest. The water’s resistance adds an extra challenge to the exercises.
9:30am - Tuesdays & Thursdays – POOL
Circuit Training
Circuit training typically involves 8-12 exercises that target different muscle groups including sit to stands, seated crunches, dumbbell rows, and balance specific movements.
10:30pm – Tues & Thurs - ST
Yoga
Class
Austin gracefully leads us through physical postures, breathing exercises, and meditation to improve the connection between the body and mind:
1:30pm – Tues & Thurs - ST 9:30am –Mon/Wed/Fri – ST
Floating Yoga
Escape the studio and embrace the tranquility of the water with our unique Seated Paddleboard Yoga class. This gentle and accessible practice takes place on stable stand-up paddleboards, anchored in a calm and picturesque location. Perfect for all levels, even those new to yoga or paddleboarding, this class focuses on seated postures and gentle movements, promoting balance, core strength, and mindful connection with your breath. Limited space. Sign up on the TSL app.
4:00pm - Tuesdays – POOL
Waterfront Walking Group
A great opportunity to get a little exercise on the beautiful Waterfront Path. Dress for the weather. *Sign-up required on TSL App or Concierge Desk.
3:00pm – Wednesdays – LOB
Biking on the Waterfront
Check out a bicycle from concierge or bring your own! Austin will lead us on different pedal excursions based on skill and interest. *Sign-up required on TSL App or Concierge Desk.
1:30pm – Alternate Fridays – 4/11 & 4/25 –LOB
Tai Chi with Luis Osirio
Luis teaches this gentle form of exercise helps maintain strength, balance, and flexibility. Participate seated or standing. Luis Osorio is a joyful & skilled teacher. *Sign-up required on TSL App or Concierge Desk.
10:30am – Fridays – ST
BE CREATIVE
Creating these colorful paper hyacinth flowers takes a simple technique. Turn them into pens or a bouquet that won’t wither! *Sign-up required on TSL App or Concierge Desk.
3:00pm – 4/7 - INK
Watercolor Class with Marcia
Discover the fun and fundamentals of watercolor including color mixing, washes, and simple techniques. All supplies provided.
*Sign-up required on TSL App or Concierge Desk.
2:00pm – 4/14 - INK
Crafty Corner
Intro to Drawing with Anne John
Calling all interested in drawing! Resident
Anne John is teaching a fun intro to drawing class for anyone interested in the art. Anne is an artist (www.annejohn.com), the owner of downtown art gallery Art at the Cave (artatthecave.com), and a former children’s art teacher in her home studio. The project she’ll guide you through at this first class is the one she used at these beginning classes with her younger students. Just bring yourself and learn absolutely abstract using your name! We’ll discuss the picture plane, breaking it up into abstract shapes using your name (see example above). Limited space. *Sign-up required on TSL App or Concierge Desk.
3:00pm – 4/21 - INK
Sip n’ Paint: Lilacs in a Jar
This acrylic painting class is for beginners all the way to intermediate! Come have fun learning some simple techniques (using a cotton swab at this class!) and taking home a piece you’re proud of. Laura teaches this class. *Sign-up required on TSL App or Concierge Desk.
3:00pm – 4/28 - INK
Open Studio
Join us on Saturdays for free style art projects! Bring something of your own, or play with our watercolors or clay. No experience necessary.
2:00pm – Saturdays – INK
VENTURE OUT
Men’s Breakfast at Cecelia’s
Men are invited to get out and enjoy breakfast together offsite. At Cecilia›s, you can treat yourself to high-end breakfast dishes such as crispy fried chicken and waffles, fluffy Dutch babies, savory salmon benedict, and mouthwatering brunch burgers *Sign-up required on TSL App or Concierge Desk.
9:00am – Friday, 4/4 – LOB
Hike with Austin!
Join Austin for a hiking adventure on easy, flat trails just a 25-minute drive away. Yearround outdoor exercise boosts your mood, improves fitness, and strengthens your immune system—all while enjoying stunning landscapes and fresh air. These guided walks are perfect for all fitness levels, so dress for the weather and get moving with new friends! *Sign-up required on TSL App or Concierge Desk.
April 4th: Lacamas Heritage Trail - - 3-6.7 miles, 216ft elevation gain (Level: EASY)
April 18th: Battle Ground Lake – 2.6 miles, 272ft elevation gain (Level: EASY)
1:00pm Alternate Fridays – LOB
Wooden Shoe Tulip Festival
The Wooden Shoe Tulip Festival is an annual celebration of spring, showcasing acres of breathtaking tulip fields in bloom. Oregon›s largest spring time event, our festival attracts visitors from near and far to experience the beauty of millions of blooming tulips. We are more than just a tulip field. Enjoy estate grown wine, gift shop, craft vendors, food options, and more!
$15 Admission. *Sign-up required on TSL App or Concierge Desk
1:00pm – Saturday, 4/5 – LOB
Western Antique Aeroplane & Automobile Museum
The WAAAM Air & Auto Museum has one of the largest collections of still-flying antique aeroplanes and still-driving antique automobiles in the country. The items on display at this museum are not only full of history, they›re full of LIFE!
At WAAAM you will enjoy an extensive collection of antique aircraft including the 1917 Curtiss JN-4D Jenny featuring an OX-5 90 HP engine, our Piper Cub and WACO collections, Aeronca collection, Stearman collection and many more fun aircraft.
There are over 130 cars in the collection at last count. Whether you want to see the 1914 Detroit Electric, a Ford Model A or Model T, a Packard, a Studebaker or even a Locomobile, you are sure to find your favorite. If motorcycles are your wheels of choice, we
have you covered too! WAAAM has Harley Davidsons, Indians, Cushmans and more!
The Second Saturday of the month WAAAM calls the volunteers to action! They love flying and driving these wonderful artifacts and invite you to share in these special days at the museum. They open the huge hangar doors and start pushing and pulling antique cars, airplanes, motorcycles and more - getting them ready to fire up and show you a bit of old technology in action. If the weather is foul, there will be indoor events including demonstrations, special exhibits and hands on experiences for visitors.
Admission is $20. Lunch available for purchase onsite. *Sign-up required on TSL App or Concierge Desk. Return by 3:00pm.
10:00am – Saturday, 4/12 – LOB
Bird Watching at St. Cloud on the Columbia River
Capture birds through your camera or our binoculars! Laura leads this trip through The St. Cloud Day use area, which features a ½ mile ADA accessible pathway that meanders through an old orchard that was the site of a homestead ranch from the turn of the century. The short loop meanders through an old apple orchard and open meadow with views across the river to Multnomah Falls and the Oneonta Bluffs. This area is approximately 5 miles downstream from Beacon Rock State Park and about 1 mile downstream from the Franz Lake National Wildlife Refuge overlook. The refuge protects a system of river streams and wetlands adjacent to the Columbia that is important habitat for waterfowl, migratory birds and raptors including bald eagles. Return by 12:30pm. *Sign-up required on TSL App or Concierge Desk.
10:00am – Friday, 4/25 – LOB
Portland Japanese Garden
Walk through what is proclaimed to be the most beautiful and authentic Japanese garden outside of Japan and one of Oregon›s most beloved spaces. Realize a sense of peace, harmony, and tranquility and to experience the feeling of being a part of nature. Three of the essential elements used to create the garden are stone, the «bones» of the landscape; water, the lifegiving force; and plants, the tapestry of the four seasons.[6] Japanese garden designers feel that good stone composition is one of the most important elements in creating a well-designed garden. Secondary elements include pagodas, stone lanterns, water basins, arbors, and bridges. Japanese gardens are asymmetrical in design and reflect nature in idealized form. Traditionally, human scale is maintained throughout so that one always feels part of the environment and not overpowered by it.Considered the most authentic Japanese Garden outside of Japan, the Portland Japanese Garden is a haven of tranquil beauty in all four seasons.
$18 Admission. *Sign-up required on TSL App or Concierge Desk
1:00pm – Saturday, 4/19 – LOB
Winery Hopping in Ridgefield
Get a taste of the flights and ambiance of some top-rated wineries in Ridgefield! Start at 14 Acres, where you can enjoy delicious appetizers, paninis, and flatbreads along with wines made on this family estate in Ridgefield, WA from carefully selected grapes and fruit
sourced from other premium Vineyards. Next, try out Stavalaura’s wines from three grape varietals grown in their vineyards and also from grapes brought in from several Eastern Washington vineyards renowned for their quality. The three wines currently produced from their own grapes are the above varietals, Pinot Noir, Zweigelt and Golubok, Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon and other wines produced at Stavalaura, are from sourced grapes grown in Eastern Washington. *Signup required on TSL App or Concierge Desk.
12:00pm - Saturday, 4/26 - LOB
Saturday Shopping: Route #1
New Seasons, Walgreens, Safeway, and Fred Meyer. *Sign-up required on TSL App or Concierge Desk. We’ve also mapped out pharmacies & dry cleaners on these routes. *Sign-up required on TSL App or Concierge Desk.
9:00am – 12:00pm – 1st & 3rd Sat – LOB
Friday Shopping: Route #2
NOW ON FRIDAYS! Alternate weeks: Trader Joe’s, Chuck’s Produce, Costco, and Fred Meyer. We’ve also mapped out pharmacies & dry cleaners on these routes. *Sign-up required on TSLApp or Concierge Desk.
9:00am – 12:00pm – 2nd & 4th Fridays –LOB
We provide transportation to churches within an 8-mile radius of our community with services times at 9am and 10am. Let us know which churches you are interested in attended. *Sign-up required on TSL App or Concierge Desk.
8:30am – 12:00pm – Sundays – LOB
Vancouver Community Library
Hailed as a regional destination and downtown Vancouver’s sparkling gem, this 83,000 square foot library opened in 2011 and has been named a New Landmark Library by Library Journal. Ride with our shuttle each month to check out and return books. *Signup required on TSL App or Concierge Desk.
10:00am – Monday, 4/21 – LOB
GIVE BACK
Engagement Calendar Review & Discussion with Laura
Laura shares details about the upcoming calendar of events and then opens the forum to hear what you’d like to see on your engagement calendar, including show outings, party ideas, and more!
11:15am – Friday, 4/4 – 3S
Welcome Committee
Our designated resident Welcome Committee meets on a monthly basis to discuss how to best serve our newest residents!
10:30am –- Thursday, 4/3 – 3S
Earth Day Community Garden Clean Up
Roll up your sleeves and help clear out the weeds and last year’s plants and fill the planters with fresh mulch and dividers so that we can begin planting our community boxes! Supplies provided.
1:00pm–- Tuesday, 4/22 - TT
FOR THE MIND
Pub Games on the Screen
There’s nothing like friendly competition in the bar to keep your brain on fire! Join other residents and staff with Kyle as your host.
4/3 Jeopardy!
4/10 Wheel of Fortune
4/17 Family Feud
3:00pm – Thursdays – PUB
TSL App Training
Learn the ins and outs of how to use The Springs Living App! Laura can answer any questions you have. If you can’t make this particular time, simply let us know and we can set up a personal one on one training with you! 1:00pm– 4/15– TH
Book Club
“The Cold Millions”: Copies are available at the concierge desk. Read and join us in discussion. An intimate story of brotherhood, love, sacrifice, and betrayal set against the panoramic backdrop of an early twentiethcentury America that eerily echoes our own time, The Cold Millions offers a kaleidoscopic portrait of a nation grappling with the chasm between rich and poor, between harsh realities and simple dreams. Featuring an unforgettable cast of cops and tramps, suffragists and socialists, madams and murderers, it is a tour de force from a “writer who has planted himself firmly in the first rank of American authors” (Boston Globe)
2:30pm – Wednesday, 4/23 – CC
FOR THE SOUL FOR THE SOUL
Caregivers Connect
If you care for a loved one, then it is imperative that you get support for yourself. Being a caregiver is one of the most taxing acts of service there is! Come and connect with others who are experiencing similar feelings, challenges, and uncertainties as you, and get comfort, support, and solutions.
11:00am – Bi-weekly 4/8 & 4/22 - CPD
EASTER BRUNCH
Sunday, April 20th 11:30AM – 2:00PM
$55 for guests includes 1 drink. Featuring Bloody Mary and Mimosa bar and a menu to make your mouth water. (Coming soon!)
Reservations are encouraged for residents and required for guests.
Make your reservation with concierge beginning April 6th.
10-Minute Guided Meditation
Sitting with others, eyes closed, and breathing deeply to a calming, guided meditation does wonders for your body, mind, and soul. Join Laura Thursday mornings.
10:00am - Thursdays – ST
Drew Shaffer, Executive Director of The Springs at The Waterfront,
brings an enviable mix of competence, calm, and vest-based authority to his role. Known for his steady leadership and an ability to solve complex problems using only awkward, sustained eye contact, Drew has guided this community from its opening days into a thriving, joy-filled menagerie.
Residents admire his approachability.
Staff trust his judgment.
And local ducks appreciate the long swath of shade he provides on hot summer days.
The
one and only
DrewShaffer
A TRUE FICTIONAL BIOGRAPHY
By Kevin Sage, AIA. Very AIA...
Raised in the Pacific Northwest, Drew had what his family politely refers to as “an exploratory youth.”
By the age of 15, he had launched an admirable but short-lived squirrel rescue club that operated during lunch, while also dabbling in music, forming the Irish Ska band Doctor Drewlittle and the Petty Leprechauns. The band performed twice in public—once at a middle school talent show and once at a community center potluck that was shut down due to “excessive bagpipe feedback.” Their signature song, “Accordion Crimes,” remains, in Drew’s words, “an acquired taste, best left unacquired.”
Though details from his 20s remain hidden behind sealed court documents, in his 30s, Drew pursued a degree in healthcare administration while also juggling jobs as a bookstore clerk, night-shift barista, and, briefly, an interpretive tour guide at a wallpaper museum. He once accidentally launched a viral MySpace blog after posting his conversations with the family goat which led to the creation of an oddly successful online course on Basic Goat Negotiation.
Professionally, Drew hit his stride quickly, rising through the senior living world with a reputation for empathy, efficiency, and accurately guessing employees’ favorite cereals. Outside of work, Drew restores antique staplers in his spare time, once spending 14 hours refurbishing a 1912 Swingline that now sits on his desk like a small, metallic lighthouse of productivity
At home, Drew lives with his pet cactus, Terrence, and a slightly passive-aggressive Roomba named Chad. On weekends, he can often be found rearranging his bookshelf by emotional tone or teaching his nephew the fine art of folding a fitted sheet without weaping.
FOOLS!
When asked what keeps him going, Drew simply says:
“It’s the people. The community. And the thrill of never knowing whether my reflection will catch the kiss I blow.”
Thank you, Drew—for your leadership, your loyalty, and your promise to “get the band back together” in 2025. Happy April Fools’ Day!
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