Birdwatching in the Pacific Northwest offers a unique blend of tranquility and adventure. With its diverse landscapes, from coastal shores to lush forests, this region is a haven for bird enthusiasts of all levels. Whether you’re an experienced birder or just curious about what wings are fluttering above, the PNW provides a perfect backdrop to discover a variety of species year-round. In this article, we’ll introduce you to four fascinating birds you can spot in this breathtaking corner of the world, each with its own story and charm.
1. Marbled Murrelet
The marbled murrelet is a small, stocky seabird with blackishbrown upperparts and white underparts. Unlike most seabirds, it nests far inland, high up in the branches of old-growth trees like Sitka spruce and Douglas fir. Marbled murrelets are excellent divers, often seen flying low over the water before diving for fish.
Call:
Its call is a high-pitched “keer” or “keer-keer,” often heard at dawn or dusk as they fly between ocean and forest.
Where to Find Them:
Look for them along coastal areas of Washington and Oregon, particularly near old-growth forests like Olympic National Park. Early morning offers the best chance of spotting them.
Expert Tip:
Listen for their distinctive calls at dawn or dusk and bring a spotting scope to enhance your chances of observing them from a distance as they fly over the water.
2. Tufted Puffin
The tufted puffin, with its bright orange beak, black plumage, and golden tufts, is a charismatic seabird. Though clumsy on land, tufted puffins are agile swimmers, diving deep for fish.
Call:
Puffins are generally quiet at sea but emit growling and barking sounds in their breeding colonies.
Where to Find Them:
Best seen on rocky coastal islands like Haystack Rock (Oregon) and the San Juan Islands (Washington) during the breeding season, from late spring to early fall.
Expert Tip:
Visit during low tide when they are more active on land. Use binoculars or a spotting scope for a closer look at their interactions and diving behavior.
3. Northern Spotted Owl
The northern spotted owl, with its dark brown body and white spots, is a nocturnal predator of old-growth forests. It feeds mainly on small mammals and is known for its hauntingly beautiful appearance.
Call:
Its deep, resonant “hoo-hoo-hoo” echoes through the forest at night, often in duets between mates.
Where to Find Them:
Spot them in remote, old-growth forests like Olympic National Park or the Cascades. Join guided night hikes to increase your chances.
Expert Tip:
Use a red flashlight to minimize disturbance and listen for their calls. Patience and quiet observation are key to spotting this elusive owl.
Download the Audubon Bird Guide App
4. Lewis’s Woodpecker
Lewis’s woodpecker is a large, colorful woodpecker with glossy greenish-black plumage and a unique flycatching behavior, catching insects in mid-air rather than drilling into trees.
Call:
They are relatively quiet but produce a harsh “churr” sound, especially when defending territory.
Where to Find Them:
Find them in open forests with plenty of dead trees, like the eastern slopes of the Cascades, the Columbia River Gorge, and southern Oregon’s oak woodlands.
Expert Tip:
Look for them in recently burned areas or open woodlands. They often perch on high branches, scanning for flying insects, so bring binoculars to observe their hunting.
Vancouver, WA, may be known for its charming streets and historic buildings, but lurking beneath the surface are eerie tales of the supernatural. Join us on a haunted walking tour as we explore the city’s haunted past, where restless spirits and forgotten histories come to life.
One of the most chilling stories is that of Esther Short, the matriarch of Vancouver and the namesake of the city’s oldest public park. Legend has it that Esther, a widow and
fierce advocate for her land, still roams the park she once fought to protect. On foggy nights, some claim to have seen a ghostly figure dressed in 19th-century clothing, drifting through the trees near the park’s center. Witnesses describe the air growing cold, and an overwhelming sense of sadness filling the space as the apparition appears. They say Esther’s spirit lingers, forever watching over the land she cherished, her presence a silent reminder of her unyielding spirit.
A mix of stories, memories, research, and personal experiences, this tour is a fascinating glimpse through the darker side of history. Many of the tales of history and terror are drawn from the book Darkness Next Door, penned by Clark County historian, Pat Jollota.
The walk will be approximately one mile and can take about 45 minutes to an hour. We’ll go rain or shine, so if the weather is wet, please bring an umbrella as the majority of the tour is outside. Wear comfortable walking shoes, dress in layers, and bring extra pants if you wet them when scared. Muahahahahahah!!!!
Room Key
01 | Ground Floor
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
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
OCTOBER
GET SOCIAL
Morning Coffee
Wake up with a little morning java and meet your new neighbors and Springs team!
8:30am – Mon thru Fri -- PUB
Weekly Update & The Springs Living App Demo
Find out about everything that’s going on here at The Springs. Also, learn how to utilize The Springs Living (TSL) App.
10:30am – Mondays -- 3S
Afternoon Meet and Greet
Enjoy an afternoon beverage and meet your new neighbors and Springs team!
2:30pm – Mondays thru Fridays – PUB
Waterfront Walking Group
A great chance to meet your neighbors and get a little exercise on the beautiful Waterfront Path. *Sign-up required on TSL App or Concierge Desk.
1:00pm - Thursdays –– LOB
New Resident Orientation
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.
11:00 – Tues, 10/8 & 10/22 – TH
Family Game Day
Card games, board games, you name it! Invite the whole family.
1:00pm - Sundays – 3S
Sunday Social
Bring the family or come to meet your neighbors for this “Something Yummy” Social every Sunday afternoon.
3:00pm – Sundays–– DEMO
Weekly Gamers
Discuss which games you’re interested in playing on a regular basis. We’ll also have games available to enjoy on the spot!
3:00pm – Tuesdays – 3S
Nightcaps at Four Peaks
Good friends. Good drinks. Good times!
6:30pm – Wednesdays beg. 10/9 – 4P
Happy Hour with Blake Johnston
Blake has a deep, bassy voice for singing old country hits as well as blues, rock, and more. Complimentary bites and sips for residents.
3:00pm – Friday, 10/4 – PUB
Happy Hour with Brenna Larson
Brenna is a vocal powerhouse. Enjoy nostalgic and original songs on acoustic guitar. Complimentary bites and sips for residents.
3:00pm – Friday, 10/11 - PUB
Happy Hour with Tom Mann
Tom is a singer/songwriter from Nashville who performs a pleasing range of acoustic hits spanning Americana, country, and folk. Complimentary bites and sips for residents.
3:00pm – Friday, 10/18 – PUB
Happy Hour with Cindy Michelle
Cindy’s vocals and natural stage presence 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.
3:00pm – Friday, 10/25 – PUB
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.
9:30am – Wednesday, 10/16 – PUB
Cider Fest: Apple Tasting
Join us for a lively Cider Fest, where you can sample a variety of craft ciders from local producers. Enjoy live music, an apple tasting, and complimentary ciders!
3:00pm – Wednesday, 10/16 - 4P
Daily Movies
Enjoy a movie from the comfort of your own theater! Check the movie calendar or Springs Living App for scheduled titles.
2:00pm & 7:00pm – Daily – TH
Symphony Night:
“A Torrent of Melodies”
Tomáš Netopil conducts the Czech Philharmonic in a performance of Mendelssohn’s Violin
Concerto and Dvořák’s Symphony No. 6 paired with a hidden gem from baroque composer Pavel Josef Vejvanovský.
7:00pm – Friday, 10/18 – TH
Broadway Night: “Hamilton”
Written by and starring multi-hyphenate Lin-Manuel Miranda, the show is based on the writings of “founding father” Alexander Hamilton—setting the early days of the United States of America to a modern score combining hip-hop, jazz, R&B, and Broadway.
7:00pm – Friday, 10/25 – TH
Monster Mash Halloween Party
Dress in your spookiest or most creative to win the costume contest! We’ll have spooky brew and devilish dips. Sing your favorite Karaoke songs! We’ll pass out candy to trick or treaters afterwards in the lobby.
3:00pm – Thursday, 10/31 – PR
STAY FIT
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!
11:00am – 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.
8:00am – Mondays & Fridays – POOL
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/Fri – ST
Waterfront Walking Group
A great chance to meet your neighbors and get a little exercise on the beautiful Waterfront Path. Dress for the weather. *Sign-up required on TSL App or Concierge Desk.
1:00pm - Thursdays – LOB
Caffeinated Walking Group
Each week, Austin guides our walkers to a different coffee shop within the neighborhood and stop for beverages and chatting! *Sign-up required on TSL App or Concierge Desk.
8:30am – Tuesdays – LOB
Floating Sound Bath
Experience ultimate relaxation as you drift in a serene pool as the soothing vibrations of sound bowls fill the space, guiding you into deep meditation and peaceful tranquility.
8:00am – Wednesdays – POOL
Group Bike Ride to Vancouver Lake
Join your neighbors for a delightful bike trip down the Waterfront to Vancouver Lake. BYOB(ike). *Sign-up required on TSL App or Concierge Desk.
1:00pm – Thursday, 10/17 - LOB
Acoustic Flow Stretch and Yoga
Relax your muscles and mind with this flow stretch and yoga class accompanied by live music, creating a serene and soulful exercise environment.
2:00pm – Thursday, 10/24 – TR
Intro to Tai Chi
This gentle form of exercise helps maintain strength, balance, and flexibility. Participate seated or standing. Luis Osorio is a joyful & skilled teacher.
9:30am – Friday, 10/25 – Studio
Clark County Haunted Walking Tour
Join us as we take an excursion through Clark County’s haunted history with a local guide from the Clark County Historical Museum. 2-mile roundtrip outdoor walk. *Sign-up required on TSL App or Concierge Desk.
1:45pm – Monday, 10/28 – Lobby
BE CREATIVE
Paint & Sip
A little vino. A little painting. A lot of fun! Join Laura in a step-by-step painting class. All levels welcome! *Sign-up required on TSL App or Concierge Desk.
3:00pm – Mondays - INK
Crafty Family
Weekends are especially family friendly. Bring your family into the art studio for an intergenerational craft for all ages.
11:00am - Sundays beg. 10/13 – INK
Culinary Teaching Kitchen
Learn from our talented culinary team as you prepare a new dish AND taste the results. *Signup required on TSL App or Concierge Desk.
2:00pm – 10/23 – DEMO
Performing Arts Club
If you enjoy the performing arts, come gather with us to discuss your preferences for theater & concert outings, in-house performances, workshops, and more. Whether you’re into theater, dance, music, or film, your voice matters.
4:00pm – Thurs, 10/24 – 3S
VENTURE OUT
Vancouver Farmer’s Market
Enjoy the lovely year-round market. Residents are welcome to walk or use our shuttle service. *Sign-up required on TSL App or Concierge Desk.
9:00am – 12:30pm – Saturdays – LOB
Church Shuttle
We provide transportation to churches within an 8-mile radius of our community with services times at 9am and 10am. *Sign-up required on TSL App or Concierge Desk.
8:30am – 12:00pm – Sundays – LOB
Saturday Shopping: Route #2
Beginning 10/12. Trader Joe’s, Chuck’s Produce, Costco, and Fred Meyer. *Sign-up required on TSL App or Concierge Desk.
9:00am – 12:30pm – 2nd & 4th Sat – LOB
Scenic Drive
Beginning 10/12. Enjoy the autumn colors along the Columbia Gorge, gaze at farms with the backdrop of a nearby mountain, or ride through a variety of quaint neighborhoods on this weekly excursion. *Sign-up required on TSL App or Concierge Desk.
1:30pm – Sat – LOB
Group Bike Ride to Vancouver Lake
Join your neighbors for a delightful bike trip down the Waterfront to Vancouver Lake. BYOB(ike). *Sign-up required on TSL App or Concierge Desk.
1:00pm – Thursday, 10/17 - LOB
Saturday Shopping: Route #1
Beginning 10/19. New Seasons, Walgreens, Safeway, and Fred Meyer. *Sign-up required on TSL App or Concierge Desk.
9:00am – 12:30pm – 1st & 3rd Sat – 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. *Sign-up required on TSL App or Concierge Desk.
10:00am – Monday, 10/21 – LOB
Cedar Creek Grist Mill
The only grist mill in Washington that has maintained its original structural integrity. Enjoy the scenery, the history, and the cider! *Sign-up required on TSL App or Concierge Desk.
1:30pm – Saturday, 10/26 – LOB
Oregon Symphony:
Dvořák’s New World Symphony
Wagner’s ghostly overture to The Flying Dutchman and Liszt›s Totentanz, a captivating work based on macabre melodies from the medieval Mass for the Dead. *Sign-up required on TSL App or Concierge Desk.
1:00pm – Sunday, 10/27 – LOB
Clark County Haunted Walking Tour
Join us as we take an excursion through Clark County’s haunted history with a local guide from the Clark County Historical Museum. 2-mile roundtrip outdoor walk. *Sign-up required on TSL App or Concierge Desk.
1:45pm – Monday, 10/28 – LOB
GIVE BACK
Lifestyle Committee
Join us to brainstorm & even plan the calendar of events. This resident-led committee will meet monthly on the last Wednesday of each month.
10:30am – Wednesday, 10/30 – 3S
The Patrons
This club will meet regularly to discuss ideas and opportunities to support our local Vancouver community and the broader PNW.
11:30am – Wednesday, 10/30 – 3S
FOR THE SOUL
Floating Sound Bath
Experience ultimate relaxation as you drift in a serene pool as the soothing vibrations of sound bowls fill the space, guiding you into deep meditation and peaceful tranquility.
8:30am – Wednesdays – POOL
Guided Meditation
Welcome Committee
Learn about residents moving in and participate in the welcome festivities.
10:00am –- Wednesday, 10/30 – 3S
Learn to breathe, be in the moment, and relax your body in this weekly, 10–20-minute guided meditation session.
10:00am - Thursdays – ST
Acoustic Flow Stretch and Yoga
Relax your muscles and mind with this flow stretch and yoga class accompanied by live music, creating a serene and soulful exercise environment.
2:00pm – Thursday, 10/24 – Rooftop or Studio (Weather Dependent)
FOR THE MIND
Weekly Gamers
Discuss which games you’re interested in playing on a regular basis. We’ll also have games available to enjoy on the spot!
3:00pm – Tuesdays – 3S
Trivia Bonanza
Test your knowledge against other trivia buffs in a battle of wits. Whether you’re a pop culture expert, history buff, or science whiz, there’s something to challenge everyone. Enjoy food, drinks, and friendly competition
3:00pm – Thursdays – PUB
TED Talk
Learn about a variety of topics from these short, powerful presentations Check the TSL app for weekly topics.
1:00pm – Mondays – TH
Book Lovers Circle
Share your favorite authors and titles and give input on our new Book Club using the Clark County Library’s list of titles.
1:30pm – Tuesday, 10/23 – 3S
Lifelong Learning
Published author and resident at The Springs at Happy Valley, Bill Meulemans will discuss his book, Dynamiting the Siskiyou. Visit the TSL App to learn more.
1:00pm – Fridays beg. 10/25 - TH
Star Trek Society
Host John Tillinghast will show an episode of Star Trek (The Original 1960s TV Series) and lead a discussion to explore the underlying meanings, ethics, and effects it had on pop culture. Take a closer look at the most influential science fiction show of all time!
1:30pm – Tuesday, 10/29 – TH
In 1996, Fee founded his company with a clear mission: to transform senior living. Now, decades later, he’s written a book to capture the principles and stories that shaped his approach. “I’m getting older, too,” Fee shared. “The principles, the culture, how we do things here — I had to get that down on paper.” His goal is to foster transparency and share insights with the hope of helping others in the industry.
A key theme in Fee’s book is the “culture of promise.” To him, this is the foundation of any successful business, especially in senior living. “We’re in the people business, and culture is basically people and the collective ideas around those people,” he explained. Fee emphasizes that knowing your promise — to customers, employees, and investors — is crucial for building a strong organizational culture.
One of Fee’s most personal stories involves his grandmother, who once told him, “Never put me in an old folks’ home.” It’s a sentiment many families and senior living providers face, but Fee believes the solution lies in solving problems one person at a time. “That’s the only way to do it,” he said, stressing the importance of data, technology, and transparency in driving improvements across the industry. Reflecting on his grandmother’s experience living in one of his communities, Fee acknowledges that any transition comes with a sense of loss, even when it’s a good decision. Yet he’s confident that senior living is evolving in positive ways, driven by a sense of purpose that sets it apart from other industries.
“When you buy a product, it’s about a product, but this is about taking care of people,” Fee noted.
Fee believes the future of senior living is bright, and his book is a testament to that optimism. “We’re up to the challenge of being the next generation to take care of the next generation,” he said.
For more of Fee’s insights and stories, check out his book, available now on Amazon and as an audiobook on Audible.
“ “
The insights Fee Stubblefield shares...are essential reading for every provider, entrepreneur, and investor in the industry.
Bob Kramer FOUNDER AND FELLOW, NEXUS INSIGHTS, COFOUNDER AND STRATEGIC ADVISOR, NIC
Fee Stubblefield Founder, Author
I’m excited to welcome you to our new community and introduce myself as your Resident Engagement Director. I bring two decades experience creating and facilitating vibrant, fulfilling enrichment programming for seniors. I’ve had the privilege of witnessing firsthand the incredible impact a strong sense of community can have on one’s well-being.
My passion for life only intensifies with age. Previously captivated by the worlds of figure skating and theatrical performance, I now find exhilaration in outdoor pursuits like mounted archery and backpacking. From the creative outlets of gluten free baking, nature journaling, and storytelling to the vibrant Portland/ Vancouver music scene, where I thrive as both a professional musician and dedicated fan, my experiences are diverse and enriching. I’m eager to share my musical connections with our community and, most importantly, to inspire others to discover their passions and live life abundantly.
I believe in the power of pushing boundaries and exploring new possibilities. Whether it’s in my personal life or in my work, I’m always seeking fresh perspectives and innovative approaches. This spirit of adventure and creativity is what drives me to create engaging and meaningful experiences for our residents.
I see my role as a partner in your journey. By combining my professional experience with my personal passions, I’m committed to building a community where everyone feels valued, connected, and inspired. Together, we can create a vibrant space filled with laughter, friendship, and endless possibilities.
I look forward to getting to know each of you and learning about your interests, goals, and undiscovered joys. Let’s embark on this new adventure together!
Warm Regards,
Laura
On the Horizon
Great Pie Competition
Enjoy homemade pies baked by staff and residents or enter your own in our Great Pie Competition for a chance to win a prize! Sous Chef Kendra Kelso will share Thanksgiving piemaking tips.
2:30pm – Wednesday, Nov 13 – Pacific Ridge
Discover Indigenous Heritage
In celebration of Native American Heritage Month this November, our Life-Long Learning Series will delve into the rich tapestry of local indigenous cultures and history. Join us for a captivating lecture presenting insights into the traditions, challenges, and enduring spirit of our region’s Native American communities.
Time TBA – Friday, Nov 22nd – Theater
Spiced Cider Sip & Shop
Discover the perfect holiday gifts while enjoying seasonal delights at our Sip and Shop! Indulge in delicious spiced cider from the culinary kitchen as you explore unique treasures from local artisans. From chocolates to pottery, jewelry, and more, you’ll find something special for everyone on your list.
11am - 2pm – Saturday, Nov 30th – Three Sisters
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