• MENTORSHIP MATTERS: How Local Programs are Helping Teens Thrive, p. 18
• CHAI GUY Makes His Move to the Couve, p. 22
Gifford Pinchot National Forest
FEATURE ARTICLES
NW Getaway: Great Adventure in the Gifford Pinchot National Forest
From the magic of Lake Merwin to the mystery of Ape Cave, explore Southwest Washington's national forest.
Mentorship Matters
Learn how local mentoring programs are helping teens reach new heights.
Chai Guy Makes His Move to the Couve
Meet Kevin Wilson, AKA Chai Guy, a recent Vancouver transplant who summons his Sri Lankan heritage to stir up connection through home-brewed chai.
A Warm Hello
I’ve always loved the joy of a new beginning. New people to meet, relationships to build - it’s an exciting time. Former editor/owner Nikki Klock has spent the last 18 years helping Vancouver Family Magazine thrive, and it’s my honor and pleasure to serve as the new editor/owner of the magazine. My goal is to serve the community with engaging content, local news and valuable event updates for Southwest Washington families.
One cold (but sunny!) January day earlier this year, the email hit my inbox and my eyes flashed. “Magazine ownership?” was the title. What? Could this possibly be for me? I’d been writing for Vancouver Family Magazine since 2024 and considered it a fantastic side project. When I reached out to Nikki earlier that year to see if she was looking for any writers, I thought that it could turn into a fun freelance gig, and maybe if there was a need for any further responsibilities, she’d consider me. Fast forward less than a year later, the stars aligned. Nikki was moving on to exciting new endeavors, and I was hungry to get more involved in the magazine. After many wonderful meetings and conversations about the magazine, I was very eager to jump in!
I’m here to serve our community by sharing helpful content that is relevant to Clark County families. You can count on the same trustworthy information we’ve been providing to our community for over 20 years. Whether you’re reading the print issue of the magazine, checking out an article on our website or liking one of our social media posts, we create this content for you and it is meant to enrich the lives of Clark County families. We’re here for you, and that hasn’t changed!
I look forward to this new endeavor and am thrilled to connect with the Southwest Washington community.
In this issue, find outdoor summer adventures in the Gifford Pinchot National Forest (page 10), learn about local individuals and programs who are taking teens to new heights through mentorship and after-school programs (page 18), and meet Chai Guy, AKA Kevin Wilson, a recent Vancouver transplant who stirs up connection through home-brewed chai (page 22).
Jayda graduated from Camas High School this year. She plays fast pitch softball and was a member of the Camas High School marching band. She plans on pursing a nursing degree at George Fox University in the fall with hopes of working in maternal and infant care. She is ready to make a difference, one tiny patient at a time.
Photo by Tija Medina IG: tijamedinaphotography tijamedinaphotography.com
Photo by Britney Woods Photography
JULY 2025
Vancouver Showcased in “Livability’s Top 100 Places to Live 2025”
Livability has showcased what Vancouver locals already know--our city is a wonderful place to live! Vancouver was ranked as a “Top 100 Best Place to Live” in Livability’s 2025 guide.
Livability gave Vancouver a score due to its friendly community, mix of natural beauty and urban offerings, strong job market and great schools.
The abundance of amazing outdoor activities, mild weather and affordable cost of living all leads to a high quality of life. It was also ranked as a top place to live in 2019, 2021, 2023 and 2024. Vancouver received a score of 731/1000, ranking high enough to be notated as a top place to live.
“Vancouver has made the list for a few years now, and it’s always exciting to see that continued recognition as the city grows and develops into its own identity. The waterfront development, and the exposure that has come along with it, has really put Vancouver on the map – bringing light to all the other wonderful parts of the SW Washington area as well,” said Erica Lindemann, director of marketing for Visit Vancouver WA.
The variety of events in Vancouver for both families and individuals were also featured. There’s something for everyone – Fort Vancouver for history enthusiasts, art galleries and performances venues for those who appreciate local talent, and of course, a variety of kid-friendly things to do.
“I think the dichotomy of the destination is really unique – to have the rich
history at the Historic Reserve (Fort Vancouver, Officers Row, Pearson Air Museum and the Vancouver Barracks) less than a mile away from a charming downtown and booming waterfront is super special. To be bordered by the Columbia River, forest land and Mount St. Helens, and the Columbia River Gorge is also one of a kind,” said Lindemann.
Of course, you can’t talk about Vancouver without highlighting the outdoors. Scenic trails, rivers and lakes make the area an outdoor oasis with over 90 local parks. Whether you’re looking for a short stroll with the kiddos or a longer biking adventure, you can find it in our area.
“Even with all the growth Vancouver has experienced in the past 5 years, people still talk about it as a friendly and welcoming place. We have the smalltown feel with city amenities and attractions that make it fun to be in,” said Lindemann.
Ridgefield City Council Appoints Elianna Galvan as First Youth Member of Parks Board
At the regular meeting on Thursday, April 24, the Ridgefield City Council made history by appointing Elianna Galvan as the first youth representative to the Ridgefield Parks Board.
Boards and commissions serve an essential role in city government, providing community perspectives to City Council on a range of important issues. In December 2024, the Council amended the municipal code to allow for one youth member to be appointed to the Parks Board, ensuring that young residents have a voice at the table. The selection process was competitive and rigorous, including a written application with a cover letter and
Page 8: Elianna Galvan takes oath of office with Parks Board clerk Kim Strickler.
Page 9: Elianna Galvan speaks to the board. Photos courtesy City of Ridgefield.
Third Annual Washougal Songcraft Festival Coming Next Month
The 2025 Washougal Songcraft Festival is coming next month to Reflection Plaza in downtown Washougal on August 9, 15 and 16. The songwriting and open mic will be at the Washougal Community Center on August 17. The event is free, with an optional donation of $5 or $10.
Stephanie Corbell, the executive director of the festival, shared that the idea for the festival began as a vision inspired by a trip to Ashland, Ore. When she and her husband, Christopher, went to a Shakespeare Festival a few years ago they were inspired by the amount of art and culture in Ashland. “We have lived in Washougal for 16 years and often go into Portland and surrounding cities for cultural events. We had a vision of starting up a nonprofit right here in our town and trying to build a foundation for culture here.” she shared.
“The festival is for everyone who loves music, songwriting and enjoying creative community,” said Corbell. “We want to support our city with cultural economic development, support fans near and far who want a non-commercial festival that really focuses on the craft of songwriting and support musical artists who are doing amazing original creative work.”
The festival is also supportive of music education. “This festival is for anyone of any age who wants to learn about the art of songwriting. Our
events include free public concerts featuring some of the best songwriters in the region, and also a day of songwriting workshops with a community open mic,” she said.
One of the most unique things about the festival is the way it honors original songwriters. “We don’t permit cover songs to be played at our festival, it is all original music. We also don’t pay different rates to different artists (which is a common thing at many venues and festivals) - we pay all our artists the same rate and give them the same support,” Corbell shared.
“We think this is relatable to anyone who would support local restaurants or brewers over giant chains: we have joked that we bring local farm-totable music to our audience,” she said. “We’ve been amazed at the quality of songwriting we find all around us in the Pacific Northwest. We want Washougal to be considered a welcoming venue for these artists.”
The event is for all ages and many families have attended the festival every year. “We think the next generation of local songwriters starts with family-friendly cultural events like this,” said Corbell.
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recommendation, a blind screening by the City Council and an interview. “The candidate pool was very impressive,” said Mayor Matt Cole. “I interviewed each of the candidates, and it was a really tough choice. We had some very unique, talented young people apply. The future is bright in Ridgefield.”
Mayor Cole nominated Elianna Galvan for the position, and her appointment was unanimously confirmed by the Council. Elianna, a junior at Ridgefield High School and a Running Start student at Clark College, is actively involved in seven different clubs, including iTUNA (International Teens Upholding Nature Association) and Unite Ridgefield, where she serves as an officer.
“I’m really thankful for this opportunity. I’ve been looking for more ways to get involved with Ridgefield outside of just my high school. I really want to try to have an impact,” Galvan told the Council after her appointment.
Galvan will serve as a voice for Ridgefield’s youth in advising the City Council on the development and operations of the city’s parks and trails system. She will hold the same rights and responsibilities as adult members of the Parks Board.
Great Adventure in the Gifford Pinchot National Forest
By Sarah Mortensen
I am convinced that one of the most picturesque places on planet earth is only an hour away from Clark County. The Lewis River corridor brings people from all over the world to see our famed Mount St. Helens and enjoy the beauty that is quintessentially Washington. The forest, river and lakes have something for every adventure level, whether you want to hike to the tip of an active volcano or enjoy a peaceful day of fishing. Read on for ideas to explore the national forest that’s right in Vancouver’s own backyard.
For a Scenic Trek:
Having hiked many trails here, I don’t think there’s a wrong choice. If you love waterfalls, then Lewis River Falls is the place to go because you get three amazing waterfalls all on one trail. The first falls are close to the parking lot and accessible for everyone, while the rest of the trail is about eight miles out and back. I’ll never forget the first time we went; we met a kayaker who had come all the way from Australia just for these falls. He knew what he was doing because he made that daring dive look easy! However, I advise you to heed the signs telling you to stay behind the fence. The other two falls, though slightly smaller, are just as beautiful. We somehow picked the one day in summer with a chance of rain to do this trail. But despite getting soaked for the last two miles, we all thought it was worth it.
Another family favorite is Lava Canyon. This trail takes you along the lahar’s path of the famous 1980 eruption. There is an amazing lookout point on the way to the trailhead where you can see miles of the destructive flow. Almost 50 years later, it’s interesting to see how the entire area is still adapting. Signs along the way help you to understand how the rocks cooled and look the way they do now. Sadly, a suspension bridge traversing the river has been inaccessible for some time and is still currently closed, though you can enjoy the entire trail by hiking up one side and then going back to hike the other. I have brought my parents here, as well as kids as young as six, and everyone has loved it.
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Left: View of Lower Lewis River Falls, June 2018.
Above: Author’s family at Trail of Two Forests in July 2023.
Right: Author and her husband at Lava Canyon in June 2018
Photos by Greg Mortensen.
GETTING OUT IS IN
At Kaiser Permanente, we celebrate the Northwest — vibrant and full of adventure. This summer, embrace your backyard, back woods, neighborhood, and trails, from the Vancouver Waterfront to the Gorge. Our Vancouver medical and dental offices are dedicated to supporting your health every step of the way. For all that is Clark County. For all that is you.
Learn more at kp.org/nw
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Every time we visit Lava Canyon or Ape Cave, we always stop at the nearby Trail of Two Forests. Here you can climb into tunnels created by trees which were knocked down by lava, leaving behind tubes of cooled rock. It’s a short trail, but also a great place to stop for a shady picnic. Speaking of picnics, we also like to stop at Woodland Corner Store and
Deli. They have a great location near the freeway entrance for hungry travelers on their way to a hike, or on their way back. I can attest that the reviews are accurate--their pizza and sandwiches are all amazing!
Even in the winter, the mountain offers amazing trekking opportunities. Former editor of Vancouver Family Magazine, Nikki Klock, and I took a snowshoeing trip with Mount St. Helens Institute guides this past February to June Lake. (Also a great trail for cross-country skiing.) It was amazing to see how different the mountain looks in the winter. I recommend Mount St. Helens Institute’s guided adventures, especially for first-timers who want to enjoy the journey but don’t want to plan it! My daughter and I hope to join their mushroom foraging adventure in the fall.
For a Lake Day:
Boating families know that Yale, Merwin and Swift Creek reservoirs are equally beautiful and fun! One summer when I suddenly needed to fly out of town for a funeral, a generous friend took my kids while I was gone. This friend and her family just so happened to be headed to Speelyai Bay on Lake Merwin and happily brought my kids along with them. When I got home, they had all kinds of stories to tell about the boat and how fun tubing was, and they immediately asked when they could go again. Even though my parents owned a boat when I was growing up, I have no desire to own one myself. Instead, anytime we have wanted to be out on the water, we have simply looked for rental options. So, if you don’t own a boat, don’t fret! You can have all the fun without the commitment.
Keep in mind that Lake Merwin will be one of the busier locations as it is closer to Interstate 5, while Yale and Swift Creek are typically less busy since they are further east. Speelyai Bay is one of the most popular boat launches, but others include Cresap Bay, Saddle Dam Park, Yale Park and Swift Forest Camp. All three lakes are also regularly stocked with fish.
For those looking for more fish and less people, boat access to the Lewis River can be found at Cedar and Johnson Creek boat launches. Again, if you don’t own a boat but want to enjoy the experience, fishing guides are happy to take you to some of the best spots. Many guides I have spoken with are booked almost a year in advance, so if this is on your list, be sure to plan ahead. A great place to find a guide is at the local (and extremely popular) company, Addicted Fishing.
For a Family Reunion:
There are multiple campgrounds along Lewis River Highway (state route 503) if you find yourself needing more than just a day on the lake. With so much to do here, these parks are a great way to bring everyone together. Pacific Power, which operates the dams on Yale and Swift Creek reservoirs, also owns and manages campgrounds and the boat
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Top left: Winter trekking to the summit of Mount St. Helens.
Middle left: View of Lewis River at Merwin Park.
Left: Author’s son fishing on the Lewis River at Island Boat Launch
Right: Author’s children and a friend at Speelyai Bay July 2019.
Photo by I-Shüan
Warr
Photo by Sarah Mortensen
Photo by Sarah Mortensen
Photo by StephanieGowen
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launches mentioned above. Group campsites are especially popular at these locations, so be sure to book early. Unfortunately, Beaver Bay campground and boat launch is under renovation and will be closed for the rest of 2025. Fortunately, Cougar Park Campground has tent camping and a boat launch, as well as access to the Beaver Bay hiking trail. It’s the perfect easy trail for kids and grandparents to explore the forest; you get beautiful views of both the mountains and water, so you’re guaranteed good memories. I’m so glad we hiked trails with my parents before their hips and knees wore out. We don’t live near them, but every time my kids talk to them on the phone the number one thing they talk about is different trails we’ve completed.
Keeping everyone comfortable is something to consider when planning for a reunion. So, if someone in your party prefers a bed over a sleeping bag, private campgrounds offer family packages. Lone Fir Resort, home of the Big Foot Café, has RV sites as well as cabin rentals. There is a swimming pool, playground and game room for kids, while parents can enjoy the hammocks, firepit and spa services. And it’s only four minutes from Yale Park, making this a great choice for families. Their Bigfoot-themed gift shop is a must-see if you ever drive by here.
Additionally, Anderson Lodge, a Scandinavian-themed resort, hosts weddings and reunions and is an upscale option. Silver Lake Resort on Swift Creek reservoir has RV and tent sites, as well as cabins, a hotel and a private boat dock. Owned by two former teachers, their focus on kids makes this location especially family-friendly.
For Dinner and a Show:
Another must-see that is fun for the whole family is the Lelooska Cultural Center in Ariel. Last June, we attended a living history performance with both sets of grandparents, and it was something we will never forget. Before the show, we wandered through the museum, which holds an impressive collection of clothing, tools and totems. As a history lover, I especially enjoy learning about the heritage of indigenous tribes who thrived here for centuries. When I asked the curator at the museum what they wore besides animal skins, he told me some clothing was woven from the bark of cedar trees, which the Cowlitz tribe called “the tree of life.”
We then entered the Kwakwaka’wakw ceremonial house where a magical fire was lit by the first performer. The songs and stories we
witnessed have been passed on through generations and are still told by the descendants of Chief Lelooska. One grandchild who was only five years old wore her wooden mask with pride as she danced and sang alongside her family. Our performance ended with the terrifying tale of Tsonoqua, a child-snatching Bigfoot!
The costumes and masks, which open and change, are difficult to describe. The intricacy and craft of the wood is something you simply must see for yourself. Afterwards, the family invites you to have cookies and see some of the masks up close.
Shows begin at 7 pm and last about 90 minutes. In small towns, not many places are open late, but Fat Moose Bar and Grill is an exception. It stays open until 10 pm and is a great place to end your evening with their late-night menu, which includes fish and chips, onion rings and chicken fried steak.
For a Quiet Escape:
Like most families with teens, spring is an especially busy time of year for us. So, this past Memorial Day, we wanted to slow things down and go fishing. My husband’s family from Tacoma joined us, which made it more fun. We started out at Merwin Park since there was a playground and plenty of shaded tables for a picnic. The short trail to Marble waterfall
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Above: Bigfoot gift shop at Lone Fir Resort. Right: Author’s family outside of the Lelooska Museum in Ariel, Washington
Photo by Sarah Mortensen
Photo by Sarah Mortensen
On August 5, 2025, FVRLibraries is asking to restore the levy rate to $0.50 per $1,000 of assessed value.
2025 BUDGETED REVENUES
$29,309,602 Other $1,265,950
Total Budgeted Revenues
$30,575,552
The levy—which provides 96% of the library district’s annual funding— is key to sustaining and growing essential services, including:
• Open hours and welcoming spaces
• Library materials like books, eBooks, and streaming resources
• Internet access and technology tools
• Free programs for all ages
See what’s on the ballot:
FAILS: Reduced Services Across the District
• 207 fewer open hours/week (-30%)
• Sta ng cuts equal to 68 full-time positions (-30%)
• Over $300,000 less for library materials in 2026, meaning fewer new books and longer wait times
• 30% fewer programs and outreach activities (1-in-3 programs lost, or 1,500 programs annually)
• Reduced funding for technology and equipment updates
• No new bookmobile
• Vancouver Mall Library closes in 2028
• No new libraries (The New Washougal Community Library project may proceed if additional grants or donations close the funding gap, but no further FVRL operating funds would be allocated.)
• 25% further cuts by 2029
• $500,000/year set aside for ballot costs (estimated)
PASSES: Expanded Services Across the District
• Add 91 open hours/week across the district (+13%)
• Additional sta ng to match expanded hours— equal to 18 full-time positions (+8%)
• $450,000 increase for books, games, and digital materials in 2026
• 13% more programs and outreach activities, building on 5,203 programs in 2024
• Upgrade computers, in-library technology, and public spaces
• New Clark County bookmobile for growing areas
• New Washougal Community Library in 2027
• New community library to open in 2030 (location to be determined based on master facilities planning process)
Above, left: Author’s son fishing on the Lewis River at Island Boat Launch
Below: Overlooking an alpine lake in the Goat Rocks Wilderness of the Gifford Pinchot National Forest.
Photo by Sarah Mortensen
Photo by I-Shüan Warr
Connect with the Access to Baby & Child Dentistry (ABCD) program to find dentists accepting Medicaid-eligible children.
Early access to dental care prevents pain, cavities and sometimes chronic disease later in life.
Medical interpretation and transportation to and from dental appointments are paid for by Apple Health. Contact ABCD for more details.
clark.wa.gov/public-health/abcd-program
MENTORSHIP Matters:
How Southwest Washington Teen Programs Help Youth
Thrive
For parents of teens, the search for help can feel like screaming into the void. Parents can see that their child is struggling, maybe with school, identity, anxiety or simply finding their place in the world, but knowing where to turn for real, trustworthy support can feel impossibly overwhelming. Parents want mentors who see their children and meet them with understanding, consistency and purpose. In a world that often feels too fast, disconnected and unforgiving, finding a place where your teen can grow, feel safe and be genuinely supported shouldn’t feel like a miracle, but it often does. In Clark County, however, a few influential organizations are doing something about that.
In Clark County, a trio of grassroots organizations, Please Don’t Die Black Men (PDDBM), Boys & Girls Clubs of Southwest Washington (BGCSW) and Shifted Theory, are transforming the lives of local teens. Through mentorship, academic support and safe, culturally
By Kristen Flowers
affirming spaces, these groups are helping young people navigate school, emotions and future careers with confidence and care.
Please Don’t Die Black Men (PDDBM)
Founded in Eugene, Oregon, Please Don’t Die Black Men (PDDBM) is more than a nonprofit—it is a movement fueled by love, justice and the urgent need for change. PDDBM was created in 2007 by executive director and Founder Ruby Lewis, who was deeply disturbed by the harmful, one-sided portrayals of Black people—especially Black men—across television, news and popular media. These portrayals ignored the richness, complexity and humanity of her community.
“It was a lot of negativity,” said Lewis. “And I wanted to provide something positive, uplifting and inspiring.”
What began as a response to media injustice soon evolved into a larger mission. In 2012,
while living in Henrico, VA, Lewis expanded the organization’s reach to include all African Americans, regardless of age or gender. Then in 2023, after relocating to Vancouver, WA, PDDBM officially became a nonprofit. It was there that Lewis launched the organization’s flagship initiative: free after-school programs for middle and high school students that directly confront racism and bias in the education system.
The after-school programs were born from personal experience. Lewis witnessed the discrimination her own daughter faced as early as kindergarten, and when she searched for programs to support her, none existed that directly challenged the root causes—implicit bias, systemic racism and microaggressions.
“I didn’t want to just help her,” explains Lewis. “I wanted to help many kids like her.”
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Bottom left: Ruby Lewis is the chairwoman and president of PDDBM. Photo courtesy Ruby Lewis.
Bottom middle: 12-year-old Ariyanah showcased her clothing line at the student-led fashion show earlier this year. Photo courtesy Ruby Lewis.
Bottom right: Participants in a PDDBM after-school program visit KOIN 6 in Portland.
Photo courtesy Ruby Lewis.
Parent/Toddler Classes Available!
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PDDBM’s free after-school programs in fashion design, filmmaking and journalism provide students with a healing-centered educational experience. These programs celebrate the unique brilliance of every student while equipping them with real-world skills—both creative and entrepreneurial. Students not only learn how to bring their artistic visions to life, but also how to monetize their work and step into leadership roles within their communities.
Their talents are proudly showcased at two major annual events: the Black History Month Fashion Show in February, and the StudentLed Fashion Show and Graduation in May.
PDDBM stands as a beacon of hope and possibility—a place where Black youth are seen, heard and empowered to tell their own stories.
Boys and Girls Clubs of Southwest Washington
Melissa Ervin is someone who learned that they matter early on in their life through mentorship. She is now the club director at the Southwest Washington Boys and Girls Club Elise Menashe Teen Center.
As a member of the Boys and Girls Club as a teenager growing up in Arizona, she felt the impact in a big way. When she saw the teen club director position available in Clark County, she immediately jumped on it.
“I was really excited to be able to give back to an organization that made me who I am today,” says Ervin.
It’s the same feeling she hopes to create for teens in Southwest Washington.
During the summer, the SWWA Boys and Girls Club holds programs from 7:30 am to
5:30 pm in the gym, games room, tech room and art and education room, focusing on college and career prep programs. The club also has an outreach program to serve teenagers and young adults, which does intervention and prevention work for teens and young adults impacted by group violence in the community.
The SWWA Boys and Girls Club offers a snack every day after school and a club dinner every night of the week. At the club dinner, everyone prepares and makes the food, and gets to sit down as a group to socialize and eat.
According to Ervin, the Elise Menashe Teen Center attendance has increased quite drastically this school year, and it’s getting harder and harder to get the kids to leave at the end of the day.
“We have so many teens who will make their parents wait five more minutes so they can
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Bottom left: Teens making slime in the SWWA Boys and Girls Club art room. Photo courtesy Garrett Gwilliam.
Bottom right: Teens in the SWWA Boys and Girls Club Games Room lounging on the couch.
Photo courtesy Garrett Gwilliam.
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stay as long as possible. Our parents have been really great about it, and I think they are happy to see that their kids are happy and socializing and getting opportunities to do arts and crafts or play in a gym.”
Ervin believes that one of the Elise Menashe Teen Center’s huge successes is that teens can make friends with people outside of their school and maintain those friendships at the Boys and Girls Club.
“It brings a sense of safety and belonging that I think every teen needs. Then, they have all of our staff members who mentor them. They can go to school and then get guidance from us on some things they may not want to talk to teachers or parents about.”
Primarily funded by grants and donations, the SWWA Boys and Girls Club holds annual fundraising events and accepts individual donors who want to pay for other teens’ memberships. The organization can also waive membership fees to ensure that teens and younger kids come through the doors and stay there without hitting a financial barrier.
“We’re just helping youth get to the next level, wherever that is in their life, and wherever they’re looking to go, we’re just supporting them.”
—Rashan Williams
Shifted Theory
Rashan Williams is another person who learned early about the power of mentorship. He vividly remembers his mentor asking him what he wanted to do with his life. Williams asked his mentor about what majors he should consider and how to transfer from a community college, and that person helped him sort through his passions.
As a child of a father who was incarcerated, this type of information was not passed down to him from a parent, and without the help of his mentor, it might have evaded him his whole life, but the helpful life lessons had a significant impact. Williams began to advocate for kids who had parents in the prison system, but he soon learned that kids in two-parent households were slipping through the cracks as well.
Williams also saw that many young men relied on sports as a way forward in life, but that, with
one injury or the lack of a scholarship, their entire lives were disrupted and often went off course.
“Just knowing that there’s a ton of kids who, with just one mentor or one positive person in their life, could do so many good things in their community,” explains Williams.
After completing his education, Williams began working as a student engagement specialist for Evergreen and Portland Public Schools. He noticed that some of the kids were having behavioral issues, and after trying everything, he requested small groups to help meet some of the challenges that these students were facing. These small groups worked, and after he left the public school system, he created
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Learn more about Shifted Theory by scanning the QR code
Top right: Giving a haircut at an Endeavor Elementary family BBQ. Photo credit Sharee Robinson (Mullen Polk Foundation).
Bottom Left: Rashan Williams at McLoughlin Middle School. Photo credit Jennifer Jones (Elevate Oregon).
Bottom right: Youth from Evergreen Public Schools got a chance to attend a Blazer game and experience what HBCUs had to offer. Photo credit Alondra Viveros.
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Shifted Theory, a group dedicated to providing youth mentoring to at-risk children in Clark County. Soon, Shifted Theory became a community partner for the Evergreen Public Schools.
Williams warns that mentorship is sometimes a long game, and behavioral problems will not correct themselves overnight, but the effort is worth the wait. He has seen kids he has mentored graduate from high school, go on to college and, for some, start and thrive in the start-up of their small businesses.
However, career success aside, he is most proud of the responsible adults these teens have grown into. Williams recalls one student, Felix, whom he mentored through middle school and high school. Felix is in college now and has created his own clothing brand, which was even covered by The Columbian. Felix has returned to Shifted Theory to host a workshop on creating a screen-printing business, covering the cost of the materials, how much a person could make and how to develop and grow a business.
“I have seen an understanding of how we should conduct ourselves and how to change
up ideas people previously put on them. I think we’re still just watching that journey unfold,” says Williams.
At Shifted Theory, parents hoping to connect their teen with the program will get a tour of the facility. If they like what they see, they will get a referral link from Williams, who will explain how the mentorship workshops are run. Some previous workshops included financial literacy, eating on a budget, managing career paths, goal setting and creating vision boards, funded by the Community Foundation for Southwest Washington. Shifted Theory also receives funding by renting its space to local weekend events. Having Shifted Theory as an event space also benefits the kids in the program because they can get two hours free of the event space for their birthday or graduation parties.
Regardless of the workshop topic, Shifted Theory provides a safe place where kids can eat, wash their clothes, play games, read and get mentorship from some of the older teens and interns. This provides positive peer-topeer interaction and peer pressure, leading teens in the right direction.
“We’re just helping youth get to the next level, wherever that is in their life, and wherever they’re looking to go, we’re just supporting them,” says Williams.
Despite each organization’s unique approach, the goal remains to create safe and supportive spaces where teens can grow, learn and thrive, and continue to lay a foundation for a more equitable and empowered future for Clark County’s youth.
As these organizations continue to grow, their impact will be felt throughout the community. Their work will be a ripple effect and a testament to the power of mentorship led by community members who offer their unwavering support and dedication.
They may not know it yet, but these community members are changing the very fabric of the lives of the people living in Clark County.
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.
By Emily Corak
I f your only experience drinking chai has been at your local Starbucks, Kevin Wilson regrets to inform you that you have not, in fact, been drinking chai. We’re even getting the name, chai tea latte, all wrong. The word chai literally translates to tea, and it is always traditionally made with milk, so we are being unnecessarily repetitive. “Every time someone says chai tea latte in the same sentence, somewhere in the world a brown grandma sheds a silent tear,” jokes Wilson.
Having grown up in Sri Lanka, Wilson is well-versed in the art of making chai. “I’ve been making tea all my life,” he says. “Tea is such a core part of my experience as a South Asian person.” At 18 years old, his whole family applied for visas to come to the United States through a lottery program, and Wilson’s was the only application selected, so he came alone with two suitcases and a backpack to figure out life in a new country.
His first attempt at Americanized chai at Starbucks missed the mark: “All the hope I had for humanity was sucked out in one sip.” Although his view of local chai has softened, Wilson has quite literally written the book on chai, and believes it isn’t just a drink, it’s an art form and spiritual experience. Other people seem to agree, as Wilson has amassed over 400,000 followers, or “besteas” on TikTok, and over 100,000 followers on Instagram.
Known as Chai Guy or the CEO of Chai, Wilson wasn’t planning on social media fame. “I had zero expectations of being a TikTok star or even an influencer. Even the word makes me cringe.” A pastor who had been making motivational Christian content, Wilson decided one day during the pandemic to document his chai-making process, and his first video blew up within 24 hours.
His content has evolved over the past five years: “I initially started off just teaching people how to make a good cup of chai, but then I started to share more stories from my life and from marginalized individuals.” Now he aims to bring people together with chai as the backdrop: “Let’s make a cup of chai and figure out life together.”
continued on page 24
Kevin Wilson, AKA Chai Guy, recently moved to Vancouver. Photo courtesy Angela Payaban.
Wilson isn’t just famous on social media, but wears many hats, and recently made the move from Michigan to Vancouver. From his apartment overlooking Esther Short Park, Wilson makes an extraordinary cup of chai and explains how all the pieces of his world came together. “One of my first hats is that of a pastor,” says Wilson, who went to school for theology and under this umbrella works on mentorship, community engagement and media.
His next hat is that of an entrepreneur. Deeply passionate about justice and equity and giving back to his home country, Wilson co-founded Cross Culture Tours that leads an annual tour group to Sri Lanka, inviting people to experience food, tea and color through a humanitarian focus. “We want to give people the best Sri Lankan experience and also give back to the community.” On his last tour, the group was able to renovate an entire wing of a local school.
One of his more recent hats as an entrepreneur is the “ChaiXperience,” which involves working with local businesses and organizations to offer multi-sensory, multi-cultural chai demonstrations while speaking about authentic leadership. “What I want people to take away is how we can learn to love each other better and lead in an empathetic way,” he says. “How can we focus on the human behind the operation?”
In addition to releasing his book, “The Way of Chai,” (Tarcher) in 2023, Wilson is truly excited about creating his own line of tea that comes directly from Sri Lanka. Cross Culture Chai will be ethically sourced and justice-forward, focusing on the deeply human aspect of tea and giving back to the people who harvest it.
Through all these roles, Wilson finds there is one common thread: “I want to teach people how to build healthy cross-cultural communities. I want to serve as a bridge builder and a peacemaker.”
The perfect canvas to do that? Chai.
So what is it about this bever age that is calling to people so deeply? Wilson says the answer is multi-faceted. First, the act of making chai and drinking chai is a communal act. “You hardly ever hear of anyone drinking chai by themselves,” Wilson says. His first memory of drinking chai is his dad making him a cup before school and he says it would be considered rude to go to someone else’s house without being offered a cup. “Whenever you drink a good cup of chai, it’s a product of memory, especially for people from South Asia.”
Wilson’s first video that shot him into social media popularity was in 2020 when isolation had never been higher, and people needed community and connection. Five years later, we still suffer regularly from distraction, division and loneliness and are craving something different.
The act of making and consuming chai speaks to things we are lacking in our society right now. “The very process of making chai forces presence,” says Wilson, who describes the process as layered and waiting patiently for several different boils. “If I’m distracted, I’m going to have stovetop flavored chai.” And it is this patience and presence that serve as a
timeout from hustle and the demands of life. “We are human beings, not human doings,” he reminds us. “Your worth is not validated from your work.”
But it’s not only the art form of making chai that people are attracted to – it’s Wilson’s philosophy and attention. His thoughts on life and humanity will make your day, your week and your life just a little bit better. It’s not a lecture–it feels like a chat with a friend that you didn’t know how much you needed.
Wilson uses his time making chai as an opportunity to slow down and talk further about philosophy, life and what we all have in common. “I want to remind people that their stories are beautiful,” he says.
In these chats over chai, Wilson shares that the responses have been impactful. People will come to the comment section to share about their depression, anxiety or imposter syndrome. Finding common ground for people continued from page 22
continued on page 26
“People are feeling really alone and often feeling like they have to prove themselves, but we forget there’s more to life than efficiency and optimization.”
—Kevin Wilson
Photos courtesy Emily Corak.
to come together is the pinnacle of Wilson’s mission to bridge people and cultures together. “People are feeling really alone and often feeling like they have to prove themselves, but we forget there’s more to life than efficiency and optimization.”
I do have a warning for you: if you come for the tea, you might leave with introspection and reflection you hadn’t bargained for. After one afternoon with Wilson, I found myself reevaluating my life goals–the ones I want in my eulogy and not just my resume. While that might sound a bit on the morbid side, it made for some thoughtful changes I’ve been making lately.
So, what’s next for the Chai Guy? The future, according to Wilson, remains open as he and his wife settle into their lives in the Couve and he continues his entrepreneurial pursuits.
While Wilson and his wife were originally looking for homes in Portland to be closer to work, they spontaneously took a day trip to Vancouver and fell in love with it immediately. (How could you not?!) “I was so impressed with Vancouver’s idyllic community,” he says. “It has such a rich history; we can walk to the waterfront and one day I hope to sell my teas at the farmer’s market.” We are certainly looking forward to it.
Kevin Wilson doesn’t claim to have all the answers, but he does value quality time together to understand one another and learn from our shared humanity. “When you realize who you are as a human being, created for and by love, that you have the capacity to change people’s destiny and your own destiny, that’s where the magic happens.”
And in the meantime, it doesn’t hurt to slow down and make a cup of chai. After our inter-
view, Wilson was kind enough to demonstrate the detail and labor of his chai-making process, and unfortunately, it has ruined any chai I’ll ever get at my local coffee shop. If you can have the chai experience in person, I’d highly recommend it, but you can also watch Wilson on Instagram or TikTok and give it a try yourself.
If you want to connect with Kevin Wilson, have a ChaiXperience yourself, or join the waitlist for the 2026 tour to Sri Lanka, visit him at crossculturekev.com or on social media @crossculturekev.
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.
Here are Wilson’s chai-making tips and tricks, but be warned: he uses the ancestral measuring methods which means he never works from a precise recipe, so this is an estimation. Do your best, take your time and taste and try until you like it!
Masala Chai Recipe
Serves 2
c 4 green cardamom pods
c 1 2-inch cinnamon stick
c ½ cup filtered water
c 1 ½ teaspoons loose leaf Ceylon BOPF black tea
c 1 cup full fat-milk
c ½ cup full-fat evaporated milk
c 1 teaspoon freshly crushed ginger
c 3 tablespoons sweetened condensed milk
c Pinch of salt
Method:
1. Crush the cardamom and cinnamon with a mortar and pestle and set aside.
2. In a medium pot, heat the water over medium heat. When you see small bubbles at the bottom of the pot, add the tea.
3. When the water comes to a boil, keep stirring and aerating for 30 seconds, then add the full-fat milk and evaporated milk.
4. Add the crushed spices and ginger and stir.
5. When the tea rises to the top of the pot, turn the heat off.
6. Pour the sweetened condensed milk into a pitcher. Strain the tea into the pitcher through a fine mesh strainer. Stir vigorously so that all the condensed milk dissolves completely.
7. Aerate the tea by transferring it between the pot and the pitcher a few times or by using an electric frother.
8. Pour the tea into cups and divide the pinch of salt between them. Enjoy!
READ OUR LATEST BLOG POST... GETTING READY TO BUY AND/OR SELL A HOME
It is that time of year... Children are out of school, trees & flowers are in bloom everywhere, and the pollen is as thick as the syrup you put on your weekend pancakes. You know what else is blooming everywhere?
For Sale Signs... & Open House Signs.
When a home becomes live & active on the market, suddenly you will have a lot of neighbors who decide to take a walk around the neighborhood...even though they have never done that in the last 3 years. Of course, that ‘walk’ is going to take them by the sign where, of course, they are going to grab a flyer. Every Realtor knows that the first dozen or so flyers are going to be picked up by the neighbors. That is ok!
What about those signs with the QR codes? Well, there are pros & cons to that. The pro for the Realtor, and the con for many people, is that as soon as you click that QR code, the Realtor (or team) now has all your information, and welcome to the marketing campaign.
7/5 10am-12pm www.learningtobuyahome.com
7/5 1pm-3pm www.freesellerclasses.com
Email traciedemars@aol.com for virtual classes Zoom link.
Selling your home is almost more stressful than buying a home. Just like with buyers, it is important to hire a Realtor who is honest about the good and the bad. You want to hire someone you can trust, and you need to trust their experience. As questions for the Realtors you are talking with before you sign with one. There is a list of questions you can ask on the FreeSellerClasses.com website. Now, when I am working for a Seller, and we talk about showings, the question is really about their availability to show. Vacant homes are, of course, easier to make appointments for, and with short notice. An owner (or tenant) occupied home will not be as easy. The person occupying the home has to work around things like pets in the home, children in the home, nap schedules, kids getting out of school, work schedules (especially for shift workers), and a million other things... AND keeping their home clean. Anyone with pets &/or children knows that keeping your home clean can be...a monumental task. With homes that are occupied, I usually advise a ‘next day’ notice schedule, which gives people breathing room to have the home ready for showing...
We would love to be the ones you call when you are thinking about buying, or selling, or refinancing, and we hope that you will. However, the classes are non-promotional, and informational only. Don’t want to go to the website? (Hey! It has other awesome blogs & ideas on there too!) You can always email me at traciedemars@aol.com and I will email you the schedule.
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2
WEDNESDAY
Go Fourth at Lake Sacajawea Park 1199 W Kessler Blvd, Longview. The festival offers a variety of services and activities, including vendors, a food court, and fireworks. Additional information for this July 2-4 event at go4thfestival.org/. 12-10 pm
3
THURSDAY
Thursday Waterfront Concert Series at Vancouver Waterfront Park, 695 Waterfront Way. Enjoy an eclectic mix of music from around the world. Bring a picnic or get something to eat at a delicious local restaurant on the waterfront. Lineup:
July 3: Bobby Torres Ensemble (Latin Jazz)
July 10: Wamba (World Beat/Afrobeat)
July 17: Orquestra Pacifico Tropical (Cumbia)
July 24: Norman Sylvester (Northwest Blues/R&B).
6:30-8:30 pm
4 FRIDAY
Washougal 4th of July Kids Parade at Hathaway Park, 732 25th St., Washougal. The City of Washougal is excited to host its first-ever 4th of July
5 SATURDAY
Kids Parade, a free, festive, non-motorized parade perfect for kids of all ages. Grab your bikes, scooters, wagons or walking shoes and enjoy a relaxed, family-friendly morning. Before the parade kicks off, families can enjoy bike and scooter decorating, games and activities, prizes, treats for all. Don’t forget to wear your red, white and blue to show off your patriotic pride! 10 am-12 pm
Ridgefield 4th of July Celebration at Overlook Park, 113-131 S Main Ave., Ridgefield. Celebrate with a parade, festival, pie eating contest and more. For more details visit ridgefield4th.com. Free. 10 am- 5 pm
Ridgefield Raptors Baseball Home Games at Ridgefield Outdoor Recreation Complex, 3101 S Hillhurst Rd., Ridgefield. Watch Clark County’s hometown baseball team face off against teams from all over the Pacific Northwest. For tickets and a season schedule, visit ridgefieldraptors.com/. Game days and times vary.
Friday Night Cruise In at Alderbrook Park 24414 NE Westerholm Rd., Brush Prairie. Enjoy mini golf, bounce houses, huge pirate ship play structures, mirror lake, nature trails, and all the things nature has to offer every Friday night. More information at alderbrookparkevents.com. 4-8 pm
First Friday Art Walk in Downtown Vancouver. Downtown is home to a wide array of gallery spaces and art-centric businesses. Check the website for participating locations and times. Vdausa. org/first-Friday. 4-8 pm
Jumping Jack Flash: An Evening with the Stones at Rock and Blues in Ilani Casino, 1 Cowlitz Way, Ridgefield. The ultimate live tribute to The Rolling Stones, delivering a high-energy concert-theater experience that captures over 60 years of rock history. 8 pm
5 SATURDAY
Open Saturday at Pearson Field Education Center 201 E Reserve St., Vancouver. Enjoy a day of STEAM education through aviation and explore the flight simulator lab open each Saturday from 10 am-3 pm
Farm Days at Pomeroy Farm 20902 NE Lucia Falls Rd., Yacolt. The weekend of July 5-6 will include guests from local kid-centered organizations, pony rides, an iSpy activity, farm animals, face painting, and more. Tickets $3. More information at pomeroyfarm.org 11 am-5 pm
8 TUESDAY
Line Dancing at Cascade Park Community Library, 600 NE 136th Ave., Vancouver. Get your dancing shoes on, or really any shoe, boot, or slipper that you can find, and have fun learning line dances and exercising. 1:30-3:30 pm
Art of Henna with Roving Horse Henna at Cascade Park Community Library, 600 NE 136th Ave., Vancouver. Explore the history, culture, and science behind henna, plus, everyone gets a beautiful henna
continued on next page
8 TUESDAY
Learn all about the traditional art of henna and get your own design.
Find pony rides, friendly farm animals, kids activities and more at Pomeroy Farm’s Farm Days.
adornment. Register at fvrl.librarymarket.com/ event/hold-sayl-henna-163977 5-7 pm
11 FRIDAY
First Time Climb Friday at Firstenberg Community Center, 700 NE 136th Ave., Vancouver. Discover the excitement of climbing in a supportive, beginner-friendly environment. Enroll $19-$24 at anc.apm. activecommunities.com/vanparksrec/activity/ search/detail/26970?onlineSiteId=0&from_ original_cui=true 5-6:45 pm
Summer Movies in the Park at Horseshoe Lake Park, Park Road, Woodland. Fun activities start at 5 pm. Live music with Blue Rock Trio starts at 6 pm. Spy Kids starts at dusk. For information on other movie nights visit ci.woodland.wa.us/community/page/hotsummer-nights-and-movies-park-2025. Free admission. 5-11 pm
The Historic Trust Summer Concert Series at O.O. Howard House, 750 Anderson St., Vancouver. Bring a picnic blanket or lowbacked chair for relaxing in the shady lawn while rocking out to Huckle Buck Highway. More information at www.thehistorictrust.org/ calendar/huckle-buck-highway/ 5:30-8:30 pm
Love Street Playhouse presents “Pistols for Two” 126 Loves Ave., Woodland. Get swept away by a world of dashing duels, thrilling intrigue, and forbidden romance. Performances July 11-27, showtimes vary. Tickets $26 and showtimes at app.arts-people. com/index.php?ticketing=lsp
12 SATURDAY
Echoes From Before The Fort: Indigenous Perspectives and Connections to Fort Vancouver, Pearson Air Museum, 1115 E. 5th St., Vancouver. Learn how Indigenous communities connect to the site and why the Fort’s history is an Indigenous people’s history. Free admission. 10 am-12 pm
Wander Clark County – Historic Walking Tour, Clark County Historical Museum, 1511 Main St., Vancouver. Discover the rich history of Vancouver’s Main Street where each building tells a story of resilience, entrepreneurship, and community. Tickets can be found by scanning the QR code. Cost $10. 11 am-12:30 pm
The Historic Trust Culture and Heritage Series: Day of Dance at O.O Howard House, 750 Anderson St., Vancouver. Celebrate the variety of cultural traditions present in our
community as these groups share their talent, heritage, and joy with us. A full performance schedule is available at thehistorictrust.org/ calendar/culture-heritage-series-dance-day/ 11 am-3 pm
Metropolitan Performing Arts Presents: “Twelfth Night or What You Will” at 6403 E Mill Plain Blvd., Vancouver. Please bring seating as this is an outdoor event and get caught up in the ensuing love triangle. This event is free. Performances July
continued on page 30
Metropolitan Performing Arts performs an outdoor presentation of Shakespeare’s famous work.
12-August 3, showtimes available at metropolitanperformingarts.org/season-15
Icons of Rock Tribute Show at Columbia Theatre, 1231 Vandercook Way, Longview. Tickets are just $25 for a night packed with tons of songs you know and love. More information at columbiatheatre.com/newevents/icons-of-rock 7-8 pm
13 SUNDAY
Sunday Sounds Concert Series at Columbia Tech Center Park, 17701 SE Mill Plain Blvd., Vancouver. Enjoy an exciting lineup of genre-defying crowd favorites presented by Riverview Bank. Food and refreshments are available to purchase from local vendors or bring a picnic to enjoy. Alcohol is not permitted in parks. Lineup:
July 13: Curtis Salgado (Rockin’ Blues)
July 20: Johnny Limbo & the Lugnuts (Rock n’ Roll Golden Era)
July 27: Dancehall Days (Current Hits & Classic Oldies)
Aug. 3: Ants in the Kitchen (Rock/Soul/ Blues/Funk)
Aug. 10: Brewer’s Grade (Northwest Country)
Aug. 17: Hit Machine (Favorites from the 60s to Today). 6-8 pm
15 TUESDAY
16 WEDNESDAY
75th Anniversary Celebration: Rainbow Magic at La Center Community Library, 1411 NE Lockwood Creek Rd., La Center. Celebrate FVRL 75th anniversary with a special performance of Louie Foxx’s Rainbow Magic. More information at fvrl.librarymarket. com/event/rainbow-magic-172431 10-11 am
Hatchery Tour at Columbia Springs 12208 SE Evergreen Hwy., Vancouver. Learn all about the Vancouver Trout Hatchery on one of our hatchery tours. Register at columbiasprings.org/events/guided-tours/ 3-4 pm
17 THURSDAY
History on Tap - Tour of Mexico presented by Vancouver Ballet Folklorico at Kiggins Theater 1011 Main St., Vancouver. This dynamic and engaging evening will take audiences on a visual and musical journey through Mexico through ballet. $5-$10. More information can be found at kigginstheatre. com 7-9 pm
18 FRIDAY
Scan to check out our website for even more local events.
challenge for children, teens and parents. $33-$41 for 3 climbers. 5-6:45 pm
19 SATURDAY
KXRW Northwest Book Fair at the Fort Vancouver Artillery Barracks, 600 E. Hathaway Rd., Vancouver. Discover the joy of books and the vibrant literary talent in the community. Celebrate stories and connect with fellow book enthusiasts. Find more information at northwestbookfair.com. Free event. 10 am-3 pm
Northwest Children’s Theater presents “The Lightning Thief: The Percy Jackson Musical” at The Judy, 1000 SW Broadway, T-100, Portland. This rock musical is produced and performed by NWCT alumni and is perfect for audiences 6 and older. Performances July 19-August 3. Saturdays and Sundays at 11 am & 2 pm
Scooped Ice Cream Festival at Esther Short Park, 605 Esther St., Vancouver. Indulge in the ultimate ice cream experience, with over 50 flavors from the best local and national ice cream brands. Aside from the ice cream, Scooped features live music, a diverse variety of food vendors, giant games and more fun all day long. Children under 5 years old or who are being carried enter for free when accompanied by continued from page 29
Rescue Dogs in Action Amazing Border Collies show off their skills in entertaining sports and herding demonstrations. For information on location and times visit fvrl. librarymarket.com/events
MJ The Musical at Keller Auditorium, 222 SW Clay St., Portland. Enjoy a Tony Awardwinning musical centered around the making of the 1992 Dangerous World Tour of Michael Jackson. Tickets $77-$311 and showtimes through July 20 at portland. broadway.com/shows/mj-themusical/
Two-time
Center Community Library.
Battle Ground Harvest Days Festival Get ready for a weekend of fun, entertainment, and community spirit. The festival can be found at various locations around Battle Ground on July 18-19. For specific locations and times visit battlegroundfestivals.com.
75th Anniversary Celebration: Music and Dance with Danza Azteca Huitzilopochtli at Woodland Community Library, 411 Lakeshore Dr., Woodland. This family-led community group brings ancient stories to life through powerful movement, music, and colorful regalia. Free event. 11 am-12 pm
The Port Summer Concert in Washougal, at Marina Park 24 South A St., Washougal. The Summer Concert will kick off from 6:30-9:30 pm with Hit Machine. Food vendors will be onsite with a variety of delicious eats. 12-9:30 pm
Summer Movies in the Park at Horseshoe Lake Park, Park Road, Woodland. Fun activities start at 5 pm. Live music with Mathew Smith starts at 6 pm. Secret Life of Pets 2 starts at dusk. For information on other movie nights visit ci.woodland.wa.us/ community/page/hot-summer-nights-andmovies-park-2025. Free admission. 5-11 pm
Family and Friends Climb at Firstenberg Community Center, 700 NE 136th Ave., Vancouver. Multiple difficulty levels provide a
19SATU RDAY continued on next page
Over 60 PNW authors of all genres will be highlighting and celebrating their books at KXRW’s Northwest Book Fair.
Photo courtesy Louie Foxx
Guinness World Record Holder Louie Foxx performs his magic at the La
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a ticketed adult. Tickets $32.50-$127.50 at scoopedicecream.com. Happening Jul 19-20, 11 am-9 pm
24 THURSDAY
4 days of Aloha at Esther Short Park, 605 Esther St., Vancouver. A unique and immersive experience celebrating Hawaiian arts and culture. Cultural Workshops also at Clark College. For event details visit 4daysofaloha.com Days and times vary.
Enjoy hula and craft workshops, hula competitions, live music, food and more at 4 Days of Aloha.
25 FRIDAY
Camas Days in Downtown Camas. For two full days (July 25-26), the community of Camas celebrates with parades, music, street vendors, a wine and microbrew street and kids’ activities. See their website for details. downtowncamas.com/event/httpsdowntowncamas-com-event-camas-days. Free Event. 10 am-11 pm
Shoestring Circus at Hazel Dell Commons, 9811 NE 15th Ave., Vancouver. Performances July 25- August 3. Transform the circus tent into a world of art and imagination. Tickets $16-$48 at shoestringcircus.com. Multiple dates and times.
Metropolitan Performing Arts presents “Mary Poppins” at 6403 E. Mill Plain Blvd., Vancouver. A practically perfect musical for all ages. July 25-26, times vary. Tickets $15 at metropolitanperformingarts.org.
Summer Movies in the Park at Horseshoe Lake Park, Park Road, Woodland. Fun activities start at 5 pm. Live music with The Rose and Rumble starts at 6 pm. Emperor’s New Groove starts at dusk. For information on other movie nights visit ci.woodland.wa.us/
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Journey Theater presents “Singin’ in the Rain” at Heritage High School, 7825 NE 130th Ave., Vancouver. Various performances on Fridays and Saturdays through August 2. Tickets available at journeytheater.org/shows/ singin-in-the-rain. $15-$28. 7 pm
Explore stages, pop-up galleries, art demonstrations, family activities and local food vendors at Vancouver USA Arts & Music Festival.
