Camas, WA — Get ready for a tropically themed evening of cocktail sips and chef inspired bites as the popular Summer Nights Sips & Bites event returns on Thursday, August 15th, from 5 pm-9 pm. Hosted by the Downtown Camas Association (DCA), this 21+ event is a delightful fundraiser supporting downtown efforts. Summer Nights Sips & Bites promises live music, island flair, and festive after-hours shopping throughout Downtown Camas.

After registering and receiving your passport at the DCA tables in the Journey lobby at 304 NE 4th Ave, you’ll set off down the charming streets to explore Downtown Camas. Pop in and out of participating shops, boutiques, and eateries while savoring island-inspired cocktails and bite sized creations from local restaurants. Adding to the tropical atmosphere, Terry Baber will perform live steel drum music, creating an upbeat, vibrant feel for the evening.

This year, even more Downtown Camas restaurants are joining the fun, offering chef-curated bites with a tropical twist. Look forward to delicious treats like Tommy O’s coconut shrimp, Grains of Wrath’s arepas with pork belly and mango salsa, and Feast 316’s truffle mushroom arancini. Don’t miss out on MOB Sauces (formerly Thrive Sauces) at Papermaker Pride with their award-winning sauces.

In addition to these culinary delights, over 15 Downtown Camas merchants are participating in this event. Juxtaposition offers a Grass Skirt Cocktail and 15% off your purchase. Sweet Intention Gift Boutique has a Huckleberry Press and 20% off one item. At Runyan’s Jewelers, enjoy a Sapphire Martini while browsing a large selection of jewelry at 50% off. For a complete list of participants, visit downtowncamas.com/event/summer-nights-sips-bites.

Tropical dress is encouraged! Ticket holders will receive an entry for a special “Summer Staycation in Downtown Camas!” prize, and wearing tropical attire gives you an extra chance to win. Save your shopping and dining receipts and present them at the registration table before you leave for even more chances to win with every $10 you spend.

“We are so excited to add more bites from our fantastic local restaurants for 2024!” says Leah Nichelson, Event and Project Manager for the DCA. “With refreshing cocktail sips, enchanting steel drum music, more tantalizing bites, and sizzling summer shopping specials, it’s sure to create a memorable evening for all in beautiful Downtown Camas. Let us bring the Summer vaycay vibes to you! This is a great way for you to make some Summer memories with friends while supporting the efforts of the Downtown Camas Association, which works all year long to help Downtown Camas thrive!”

Tickets are $25 and can be purchased at Eventbrite. This event has limited capacity, so be sure to get your tickets ahead of time. Summer Night’s Sips & Bites is a fundraiser for the DCA, a 501c3 nonprofit dedicated to strengthening and promoting Downtown Camas through partnerships, events, beautification, historic preservation projects, public art engagement, economic development, advocacy, and tourism functions. For more information on the DCA and other downtown events, visit downtowncamas.com

Julie Beeler Creates Pigments & Dyes from Mushrooms in the Columbia River Gorge

Stevenson, WA — Using 40 varieties of fungi to create 825 vibrant natural pigments, dyes and paints, Julie Beeler expresses and educates using mushrooms for color. Layering on natural fibers, Beeler draws on the history of natural dyes to make textiles that are cut, sewn, stitched and constructed to reflect our relationship to the natural world. She shares her process, from foraging and identification to dyeing natural fibers through her studio Bloom & Dye in Trout Lake, Washington and through workshops, retreats and demonstrations.  

Beeler’s journey into the world of mushroom color began with a fascination for the vast and mysterious network of fungi beyond the commonly known edible and medicinal uses. Beeler describes herself as a self-taught mycophile, having spent the past decade delving into uses for these natural pigments. In addition to her studio and educational programs, Beeler developed an online resource The Mushroom Color Atlas to share the colors found in these mushrooms.  

“The universe of colors lurking inside mushrooms mirror the vast array of hues we see in the natural world, yet they are invisible and hidden in an immense underground fungal network of life that represents a new frontier,” expounds Beeler.

Through her work, Beeler was offered an opportunity to collaborate with award-winning publisher, Chronicle Books to create a comprehensive guide to her entire process. The Mushroom Color Atlasbook, written by Beeler and Illustrated by Yuli Gates, releases September 3, 2024.  As an art book, field guide and color distillation workshop, The Mushroom Color Atlas features botanical mushroom illustrations and clear instructions on how to find and positively identify more than two dozen color-filled mushroom species in the wild.

For those looking to experience her work, Beeler will be exhibiting at the Columbia Gorge Museum in Stevenson, Washington October 12 through November 22, 2024.  Her show, Symbiosis, will transport visitors through large sale, immersive ‘tree totems,’ each displaying the chromatic interplay of hues created from regional fungi. A series of textile pieces, mono prints, and photographs visualize their relationship to the environment and create a portrait of our local ecosystem. 

Beeler will also be conducting a demonstration at the Columbia Gorge Museum entitled Mushroom Pigments, Paints & Inks on October 19 from 1-2 pm as a free event for ticket holders in conjunction with The Stevenson Mushroom Festival.

About The Stevenson Mushroom Festival
The Stevenson Mushroom Festival is presented by Traverse PNW Market in Stevenson, Washington. The festival is designed to captivate attendees of all ages with an array of festivities to celebrate the enchanting world of mushrooms. Located throughout Stevenson, Washington, October 18-19, 2024. More at: stevensonmushroomfestival.com

Camas, WA — The popular Movies in the Park series, coordinated by Camas Parks & Recreation, will be held at Dorothy Fox Elementary school starting Friday, August 2, with the showing of the exciting Dungeons and Dragons: Honor Among Thieves (rated PG-13). 

Due to the construction taking place at Crown Park, this year’s free movies will take place at Dorothy Fox Elementary, 2623 NW Sierra St., with movies shown every Friday in August.  Movies are family-friendly and begin at dusk with pre-movie activities (crafts and/or games) taking place one hour prior to show time.

This year’s movie lineup includes:

Dungeons and Dragons – Honor Among Thieves (PG-13) – Aug. 2, at 8:45 pm.

Wonka (PG) – Aug. 9, at 8:30 pm.

E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial (PG) – Aug. 16, at 8:30 pm.

Wish (PG) – Aug. 23, at 8:15 pm.

Shrek (PG) – Aug. 30 at 8 pm.

Attendees are welcome to bring dinner, snacks, or they can purchase novelty treats (i.e. popcorn, candy, etc.) on site.  Bring chairs or blankets for seating and note that, to allow fair viewing, chairs are placed in one-half of the park viewing area and blankets in the other half.  Please note, alcohol and animals are not allowed on school grounds. 

This is a free event with no registration required.  Camas’ Movies in the Park series is sponsored by Camas United Methodist Church, Discovery Dental and Queer Youth Resource Center. 

For more information on the annual Movies in the Park series, visit www.cityofcamas.us/parksrec and click on the Special Events button or call 360-834-5307.

Maybe you’re in a major life transition or you’ve just experienced a deep loss. Perhaps the kids are all gone and the house feels empty or the kids and their schedules are so busy that it’s been a long time since you’ve experienced some quiet. All you know is that you feel: 

  • unsettled,
  • overwhelmed, and
  • uncertain.

“Trust me. I’ve been there,” says artist Elida Field. “I know what it’s like to be in a place you never thought you’d be and wondering … 

Who am I now that …?

What am I supposed to do next?”

Field has led hundreds of women through the process of finding their mojo again by helping them connect to their creativity. 

“Edenwild Retreat will give you the rest you deserve, the spark you’ve been lacking, and the friends you’ve been wanting. When the days get darker, this retreat will be a bright spot to look forward to,” said Field.

All you need to do is:

  1. Register for the Edenwild Retreat.
  2. Pack your bags.
  3. Prepare for painting, hikes, bikes, wonderful dinners and deep conversations.

https://www.elidaart.com/tours

Taco lovers, rejoice! The third Annual Camas Taco Fest at A Beer At A Time is almost here! Get your tickets now and enjoy a day filled with tacos, burritos, margaritas, and live music from The Playlist, Northwest Transit, The Southern Sons, and Tacos In Hell! 🎶🥳 

Fans have really enjoyed this event, and the hosts are looking forward to another day filled with fun, good food, drink and music.

Click the link to join the fiesta and grab your free entry, drink, and food tickets by volunteering!👇

Ticket Link:

https://www.eventbrite.com/e/camas-taco-fest-2024-tickets-942533582317?utm-campaign=social&utm-content=attendeeshare&utm-medium=discovery&utm-term=listing&utm-source=cp&aff=ebdsshcopyurl

Volunteer Sign-up:

https://www.signupgenius.com/go/10C0E4BABAB2FA2F8C43-50292346-camas

Taco Fest

Fern Prairie, WA — The fifth annual Fern Prairie ART FEST is a two-day event connecting local artists and the community on Saturday and Sunday, August 3rd and 4th from 10 am to 4 pm. The ART FEST is staged in the peaceful and tranquil setting of Shangri-La Farm, located 1.5 miles north of Lacamas Lake just outside the city limits of Camas, Washington. A total of nine artist booths will be featured in the juried show.

“These fine artists are excited to show and sell their work at ART FEST,” said organizer and local artist Liz Pike. 

Pike will be joined by artists Bev Birdwell, Matthew Clarkson, Cheryl Folkers, Dave Garbot, David Gerton, Charlene Hale, Gail Haskett and Keith Russell. Original work includes paintings in oils, acrylics and watercolor, pastels, mixed media, hand-built pottery, fused and enamel glass, jewelry, pen and ink, and copper mixed media.

The public is invited to take in original works of art surrounded by the beautiful gardens at Shangri-La Farm. Attendees will park at rented Grove Field Airport parking lot, 632 NE 267th Avenue, Camas, WA. Guests may either walk the 1/4 mile trail through the woods to Shangri-La Farm or take the free “Sunflower Mobile” shuttle service. The Sunflower Mobile is an art piece all on its own, hand painted by Liz Pike in oils on fiberglass in her signature sunflower motif. The free shuttle will be available to transport attendees from the airport parking lot to Shangri-La Farm on both days, Saturday and Sunday, August 3rd and 4th between 10 am and 4 pm.

The Camas-Washougal Chamber of Commerce is operating a beer and wine garden starting at noon both days with proceeds benefitting Chamber programs. Diamond Dogs will be selling its gourmet dogs and snacks next to the Chamber’s beer and wine garden.

For more information, contact Liz Pike at 360-281-8720 or email pikeadvertising@comcast.net.

Camas, WA — A brand new event for wine and art enthusiasts is coming to Camas on Saturday, September 7 from noon to 5 pm. Attendees over the age of 21 will visit 17 wineries at 17 downtown Camas merchant locations as part of the first ever Camas Art & Wine Walk.

Advance tickets at $50 per person are available online now at https://www.eventbrite.com/e/camas-art-wine-walk-tickets-948027946107. Day of event tickets jump to $70 per person.

“This a great value,” said Kim Lane, owner of Lane Cellars. “Where else can you taste wine from 17 different wineries in the span of a few downtown city blocks? It’s absolutely recession-proof pricing.”

In addition to wine, original art will be on display inside participating art galleries and merchants, as well as sidewalk art vendors.

All proceeds from Camas Art & Wine Walk will benefit Camas Students and Families Foundation, (CSFF). CSFF helps students and families in need within the Camas School District, by providing a variety of goods including eyeglasses, school supplies, sporting equipment and even cap and gown rental for graduation. 

“We are thrilled to be partnering with CSFF to help local families in need,”said Lane.

Cost of admission includes a wine swag bag with a lanyard ticket, a walking map and a signature wine glass that will be

used at each location.

The lineup of merchants and wineries include:

4Ever Growing Kids • York Farm Vineyard • 440 NE 4th Avenue

Allure • Valo & Massalto • 407 NE 4th Avenue

Arktana • Confluence Vineyard & Winery • 415 NE 4th Avenue

Autumn Leaf Bookstore • Emanar Cellar • 334 NE 4th Avenue

Camas Antiques • Matranga Vineyards • 305 NE 4th Avenue

Cascade Hasson Sotheby’s Int. • Columbia Gorge Vintners • 418 NE 4th Ave.

Camas Cellars • featuring their wines • 222 NE Everett Street, Suite 1

Feast 316 • Brian Carter Cellars • 316 NE Dallas Street

Gallery 408 • Burnt Bridge Cellars • 408 NE 4th Avenue

Juxtaposition • Pomeroy Cellars • 425 NE 4th Avenue

Lane Cellars • featuring their wines • 340 NE 4th Avenue

Lily Boutique • English Estate Winery • 237 NE 4th Avenue

Papermaker Pride • Windy Hills Winery • 339 NE 4th Avenue

Poppy & Hawk • Stavalaura Vineyard & Winery • 223 NE 4th Avenue

RedDoor Gallery • Columbia Ridge Winery • 411 NE Dallas Street

Runyan’s Jewelers • Willamette Valley Vineyards • 327 NE 4th Avenue

Sweet Intentions Gift Shop • Rezabek Vineyards • 218 NE 4th Avenue

Washougal, WA — The City of Washougal and the Washougal Police Department are excited to invite the community to National Night Out on Tuesday, August 6, 2024, at Hathaway Park. The event will begin at 6:00 PM and promises an evening filled with fun, family-friendly activities. National Night Out is a nationwide event designed to foster positive relationships between law enforcement and communities.

Chief of Police Wendi Steinbronn said, “This event is a testament to the commitment of the Washougal Police Department to engage with our community in a positive and impactful way. We look forward to connecting with residents, enjoying some great activities, and working together to ensure a safer, more connected Washougal.”

This year, the festivities at Hathaway Park will include a variety of exciting activities, including:

  • Ice Cream Floats: Enjoy delicious ice cream floats served with a free souvenir cup.
  • Dunk Tank: Test your aim and take the opportunity to dunk a cop for a good cause. Donations of $5 will go towards providing bike helmets for Washougal kids.
  • Family-Friendly Games: Participate in a range of engaging lawn games suitable for all ages.
  • Outdoor Movie: At 8:30 pm, settle in for a special 3-D screening of the beloved animated film “Monsters, Inc.” with free popcorn.

The event is free and open to all members of the Washougal community. It’s a wonderful opportunity to enjoy a fun-filled evening while building connections with neighbors and local law enforcement.

Rose Jewell, Community Engagement Manager, highlighted the significance of the event in the context of the city’s broader goals by saying “National Night Out is a prime example of our increased investment in community engagement, as outlined in our strategic plan.” 

“By hosting events like this, we’re bringing our community together,” she continued. “We’re excited to offer a fun and meaningful experience that aligns with our ongoing efforts to support and enhance community connections.”

National Night Out is presented by Washougal Police Department and City of Washougal. This year’s event sponsors are McCord’s Vancouver Toyota, Renewal by Anderson, Edward Jones, IQ Credit Union, Washougal Police Officers Association, WSCCCE 307-W, CRESA 911, and Starbucks.

For more information about National Night Out and other community events, please visit https://cityofwashoual.us/NationalNightOut

Camas, WA — Camas Cellars and Camas Cheese Co. are excited to announce a special event during Camas Days, “Taste of the Pacific Northwest – A Curated Wine & Cheese Pairing.” This exclusive event will take place on Friday, July 26 and Saturday, July 27 at Camas Cellars, featuring three unique sessions where attendees can indulge in the finest wines and cheeses the Pacific Northwest has to offer.

“Taste of the Pacific Northwest” is a carefully curated tasting experience designed to highlight the exceptional quality and diversity of local wines and cheeses. Guests will have the opportunity to savor six premium wines, each thoughtfully paired with artisanal cheeses, creating a symphony of flavors that reflect the rich terroir of the region.

Event Details:

  • Date: July 26 & 27
  • Location: Camas Cellars, 602 NE 3rd Ave, Downtown Camas
  • Sessions:
    • Session 1: Friday, July 26 – 5-8 pm
    • Session 2: Saturday, July 27 – 2-4 pm
    • Session 3: Saturday, July 27 – 5-8 pm
  • Tickets: Reservations are required, and spots are limited. Early booking is highly recommended. Register HERE.

“We are thrilled to bring together the best wines and cheeses from the Pacific Northwest for this special event,” said Debi Dabasinskas, owner of Camas Cellars. “Our collaboration with Camas Cheese Co., which curates exceptional cheeses from local creameries and farms, allows us to offer an unparalleled tasting experience that showcases the unique flavors and craftsmanship of our region.”

About Camas Cellars

Camas Cellars is a boutique wine bar and bottle shop dedicated to presenting the finest Pacific Northwest wines, offering a welcoming space for wine enthusiasts and casual drinkers alike. With a focus on quality and community, Camas Cellars is a beloved destination for wine lovers in the area.

About Camas Cheese Co.

Camas Cheese Co. specializes in curating high-quality, artisanal cheeses from local creameries and farms, celebrating the rich dairy traditions of the Pacific Northwest. Their commitment to excellence and passion for cheese curation make them a perfect partner for this event.

Vancouver, WA — The Building Industry Association of Clark County presents the 46th annual GRO Parade of Homes, a showcase of the Pacific Northwest’s finest home architecture, design, and construction, September 6-22, 2024 from 10 am to 7 pm at Reserve at Lake River in Felida, WA.

Featuring the latest in high-end home construction from Affinity Homes and Cascade West Development, the GRO Parade of Homes will offer a walk-through experience of three homes on a single site overlooking Lake River. Each home boasts open-air living spaces, and state of the art home technology, appliances, lighting, plumbing, textures, and colors. Trusted builders, designers, and real estate professionals will be on-site to answer questions and offer insights. Food and beverage offerings from local food trucks will round out the experience for all to enjoy.

“No other display of homes in the Pacific Northwest provides this level of craftsmanship in a one-stop touring experience,” says Chuck Neibert, president of the Building Industry Association of Clark County. “Whether you are looking for home design inspiration, embarking on a remodel, or a part of the industry, everyone will walk away inspired and informed about creating the home of their dreams.”

Several special events will be a part of this year’s Parade of Homes.

  • VIP Night – Thursday, September 5th, 5 pm to 9 pm. Celebrate the Parade of Homes
    opening night with a red carpet moment and first access to the home tour. Presenting sponsor
    NW Natural will cater dinner. (21 and over, VIP tickets $75). 
  • Family Day – Saturday, September 7th, 10 am to 3 pm. Enjoy family-friendly activities.
    Kids under 12 are free. 
  • Hero Day – Sunday, September 8th, 10 am to 7 pm. First responders with valid ID get
    $3 off full price admission and active or retired military will receive free admission. Students from Battle Ground High School ROTC program will hold hourly flag salutes from 11 am to 4 pm. 
  • Designer Day – Wednesday, September 11th, 10 am to 7 pm. Industry designers will gain complimentary admission by turning in their business card and photo ID at entrance. A special industry networking happy hour from 4 pm to 6 pm will be held for extra purchase
  • Builder and Realtor Day – Thursday, September 12th, 10 am to 7 pm. Local builders and realtors can enjoy free admission with business card and photo ID at entry. A networking event with refreshments will be held from 4 pm to 6 pm.

Homes are closed on Mondays and Tuesdays during the event span. The GRO Parade of Homes parking and complimentary shuttle service will be located at 4607 NW McCann Road in Vancouver. Tickets can now be purchased for $15 per person at groparadeofhomes.com and on-site during the event.

About The Building Industry Association

The Building Industry Association of Clark County is the region’s leading building industry and small business advocate. The organization promotes and protects the building industry through a multi-faceted approach to government affairs, public relations and professional development.

Parade