📰 What's Making News

S'mores Bar Lands in Uptown Village Later This Month

If your ideal dessert involves melted marshmallow and a little bit of spectacle, mark your calendar. Toasted S'mores Bar is set to open in mid- to late August in Vancouver's Uptown Village, bringing a full menu built around the campfire classic — graham crackers, chocolate, and all. The concept puts a creative spin on a treat that dates back to a 1927 Girl Scout manual, and it's the kind of only-here opening that gives the neighborhood another reason to stroll. Read more from The Columbian.

Vancouver Man Eyes $1 Million for Ultra-Rare Pokémon Card

A Vancouver collector is hoping to turn a childhood hobby into a world-record auction. The man believes he holds one of the rarest Pokémon cards ever produced and is aiming for a sale north of $1 million. If the price holds, it would set a new benchmark in the booming collectibles market. It's a wild local story that proves sometimes the stuff in your old binder really is worth hanging onto. Full story here.

Flat Tack Farm, Edible Flowers, and Why Camas Farmers Market Delivers

Looking for something you can't find at the grocery store? Columnist and local food lover shares how a trip to the farmers market turned up edible flowers from Flat Tack Farm, run by Kelly Peters and Patrick Dorris. The piece is a love letter to Clark County's farmers market scene and the direct-from-grower finds that make a weekly visit worthwhile. If you haven't browsed the Camas or Vancouver markets lately, consider this your nudge. Read the column.

Vancouver Nonprofits: Grant Applications Close Soon

The City of Vancouver is issuing a final call for applications to its Community and Neighborhood Grants Program. Nonprofits, youth organizations, and neighborhood associations are all eligible, and the window is closing. If your group has a project that could use a funding boost, this is worth a quick look before the deadline passes. Details and application info here.

Raptors Drop Road Slugfest to Springfield, 14-7

It was a rough night for the Ridgefield Raptors, who fell 14-7 to the Springfield Drifters on Thursday in the opener of a three-game series. A seven-run second inning by Springfield proved too deep a hole, even after the Raptors clawed back to 9-6 in the fifth. Ridgefield sits at 28-21 heading into the final road trip of the regular season, with plenty of baseball still to play. Box score and recap.

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💬 Community Buzz

Battle Ground's Christmas in July Drive Delivers for Local Veterans

Battle Ground Senior Citizens, Inc. and Home Instead teamed up again this July for their Christmas in July donation drive, collecting supplies and gifts for veterans right here in Clark County. The effort builds on Home Instead's popular Be a Santa to a Senior program, extending that spirit of generosity into the summer months when veteran needs don't slow down. It's a feel-good partnership that keeps growing year after year — and a reminder that Battle Ground quietly punches above its weight when it comes to taking care of its own. Read more about the drive at Clark County Talk.

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⚡ Quick Bites

O'Keefe Farms Sunflower Festival Kicks Off Tonight in Brush Prairie

The annual Sunflower Festival at O'Keefe Farms launches with a concert tonight (Aug. 1) featuring AC/DC tribute band Shoot to Thrill, then spreads across two weekends in August with 60-plus sunflower varieties, hayrides, goat petting, and local vendors. Tickets are available on Eventbrite.

September I-5 Closure: 6 Weeks Vancouver Commuters Need to Plan For

Portland's upcoming six-week I-5 southbound closure in September is already generating buzz — and anxiety — among Vancouver commuters bracing for the I-205 spillover. If you cross the river for work or appointments, now's the time to talk to your employer about flexible hours or rescheduling.

Hazel Dell Shuttle Skips Cascade Amphitheater Parking Hassles

Heading to a show at the Cascade Amphitheater? A shuttle running from the Hazel Dell park-and-ride costs just $2–$5 round trip, drops you at the venue door, and saves you the post-concert traffic crawl.

Boeing, White-Collar Union Reach Deal, Dodge Strike

Boeing and the union representing 17,000 professional aerospace workers reached a contract agreement Thursday, avoiding a strike at one of Washington state's largest employers — welcome news for the region's aerospace supply chain.

Columbia River Fishing Report: Where Anglers Found Action Last Week

The latest Columbia River and tributary fishery report covering July 20–26 is out, with catch-rate data from access sites across Southwest Washington — worth a look before you plan your weekend on the water.

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📅 Mark Your Calendar

Saturday, August 1

• Mt. St. Helen's Summit Climb with MSHI – 6:00 AM. Embark on a single-day non-technical scramble to the summit of Mount St. Helens with professional mountain guides and certified volunteer climbing stewards — designed for both novice hikers and experienced mountaineers. More info
• Paddle for Life Dragon Boat Festival – 8:00 AM–5:00 PM at the Port of Ridgefield Boat Launch, Ridgefield. Feel the rumble of drums and the splash of synchronized paddles as 50 regional teams compete in high-speed, 250-meter races. Cheer from the shore, browse Vendor Village with food trucks and a chance to win prizes. Free admission and parking. More info
• Birding Walk at Ridgefield NWR – 8:00 AM at the Carty Unit. Join Ron Escano for a relaxed morning birding walk at the Ridgefield National Wildlife Refuge. Whether you're new to birding or looking to sharpen your skills, Ron will help everyone spot and identify species. More info
• Downtown Vancouver Market – 9:00 AM–3:00 PM at Esther Short Park, Vancouver. The flagship Vancouver Farmers Market has been a Saturday staple since 1990 — shop local produce, artisan goods and more in the heart of downtown. More info
• 2026 Washougal Arts and Music Festival – 9:00 AM in Downtown Washougal. Local and regional artists display original work in all mediums, plus live music from the Washougal Songcraft Festival. Family-friendly fun all day. More info
• Free Clothing Event – 9:00 AM. The 12th annual free clothing event features used clothes in all sizes from infant to plus. More info
• Ridgefield Day of Festivals – 9:00 AM–5:00 PM in Downtown Ridgefield. Five events align into one big day: City Days, Ridgefield Farmers Market, Paddle for Life Dragon Boat Races, Children's Entrepreneur Market and the 2026 Washington Duck and Goose Calling Championship. Free admission and a free C-Tran shuttle between locations. More info
• Curiosity Kids: Sasquatch Science Team at OMSI – 9:00 AM at OMSI, Portland. Kids ages 3–5 and their families use their five senses to explore Sasquatch-themed science in this bilingual STEAM program. More info
• 2026 AMC Rendezvous Car Show – 9:00 AM–3:00 PM at 14 Acres Vineyard & Winery, Ridgefield. Open to all AMC heritage vehicles including Nash, Hudson, Rambler and AMC-Jeep. Enjoy music, food, beverages, raffle prizes and car-judging. More info
• Salmon Creek Trail Parkrun – 9:00 AM at Salmon Creek Trail, Vancouver. A free, fun weekly 5K — walk, jog, run, volunteer or spectate. All ages, abilities and dogs welcome. Register at parkrun.us for your personal barcode. More info
• Volunteer Gleaning: Blueberries in La Center – 9:00 AM. Join Urban Abundance to glean from 230 blueberry bushes in La Center — bring the whole family and help share fresh, local food with neighbors across Clark County. More info
• Marine Park Beach Clean-Up – 9:00 AM–11:00 AM at the Water Resources Education Center, Vancouver. Help remove plastic, Styrofoam and litter from Columbia River beaches. All tools provided. All ages welcome (youth under 13 need an adult). More info
• Washougal Arts and Music Festival – 9:00 AM–3:00 PM at Reflection Plaza, 1703 Main St., Washougal. Twenty local and regional artists selling original artwork, plus live music from the Washougal Songcraft Festival and a children's activity area. Free. More info
• Sons of The American Legion Squadron 168 – Amboy – 9:00 AM–10:00 AM at American Legion Tum Tum Post 168, Amboy. Monthly meeting supporting veterans and their families in North Clark County. Sons, grandsons of veterans and anyone interested are welcome. Free. More info
• Assisted Bridge: Lesson and Play – 9:15 AM–10:30 AM at Vancouver Bridge Club, 6503 E. Mill Plain Blvd. Free bridge lesson followed by assisted play — great for learning or brushing up. More info
• Farm Days at Pomeroy Farm – 10:00 AM–5:00 PM at Pomeroy Farm, Yacolt. Live music, farm animals, children's activities and strolls through the historic grounds. Admission is $3 for ages 6 and up; 5 and under free. Free parking. More info
• Open Saturday at Pearson Field Education Center – 10:00 AM–3:00 PM in Vancouver. Explore flight simulators, a vertical wind table and historic airplanes. Free admission, perfect for curious kids and families. More info
• Dandelion Wish Fair – 10:00 AM at Dandelion Teahouse & Apothecary, Vancouver. A summer makers market featuring local vendors selling skincare, plants, jewelry, quilts and more. More info
• The American Legion Tum Tum Post 168 – Amboy – 10:00 AM–11:00 AM at 21400 N.E. 399th St., Amboy. Monthly meeting for veterans and community members. Free. More info
• Little Land of Lichen Hike – 10:00 AM–11:30 AM at Battle Ground Lake State Park. Park ranger Ryan Reynolds leads a one-mile walk exploring the surprising world of lichen. Free; sign up by email. More info
• The Stuff of Legends at AQUA Gallery – 10:00 AM–3:00 PM at 403 Quayside Place, Vancouver waterfront. See Abby Ketcham's expressive stuffies and Carson Legree's vibrant mythological paintings. Free. More info
• American Legion Post 14 Poker Run – 10:00 AM at American Legion Post 14, 4607 N.E. St. James Road, Vancouver. Cars, trucks and motorcycles welcome. Three stops, poker cards at each, lunch and prizes at the end. $20 per person. More info
• Get To-Gather Farm Day – 10:00 AM–3:00 PM at Get To-Gather Farm, Washougal. Hayrides, farm equipment demos, cookie decorating, food vendors and local artisans. Free admission and parking. More info
• Free Writers Workshop – 10:00 AM–11:30 AM at Ridgefield NWR Community Nature Center. Clark County Poet Laureate Susan Dingle leads writing practices surrounded by nature. No experience needed. Free. More info
• Angel Ocasio's Comedy, Magic and Stuff – 11:00 AM. Comedian Angel Ocasio brings silly antics, magic, juggling and audience participation to a bilingual, family-friendly show at an FVRL library location. Free. More info
• Northwest Children's Theater Alumni Presents: Robin Hood – 11:00 AM at The Judy, Portland. A fast-paced, comedic take on the classic tale performed by NWCT alumni. $20–$25. More info
• Cornhole Tournament – 11:00 AM–2:00 PM at Esther Short Park, Vancouver. Grab a partner and register as a two-person team for a bracket-style competition welcoming all skill levels. More info
• Play Bridge (0–150 points) – 11:00 AM at Vancouver Bridge Club, 6503 E. Mill Plain Blvd. $10. More info
• MagenTOTS: The Not-So-Mysterious Disappearance of Cinderella – 11:00 AM and 2:00 PM at Magenta Theater, 1108 Main St., Vancouver. A hilarious retelling of Cinderella written for kids, with pop culture twists and fresh characters. $10. More info
• The American Legion Auxiliary Unit 168 – Amboy – 11:30 AM at American Legion Tum Tum Post 168, Amboy. Monthly meeting dedicated to supporting veterans, military families and community service. Free. More info
• Northwest Seafood Boil at Social Kitchen – 11:30 AM–2:30 PM at Social Kitchen, 1000 Main St., Vancouver. Enjoy the meal that Chef Kaleena Bliss made when she beat Bobby Flay — Dungeness crab, prawns, mussels, clams, oysters and more tossed in spiced butter. Watch the episode while you eat. $150. More info
• La Center Historical Museum – 12:00 PM–4:00 PM at La Center Historical Museum. Free admission; run by volunteers and donations. More info
• Chelatchie Prairie Railroad Summer Train Rides – 12:00 PM departing from Yacolt. Ride through the tunnel, across the East Fork of the Lewis River, with a stop at Moulton Station to visit Yacolt Falls. $16–$24. More info
• Amazing Aquifers – 1:00 PM–2:00 PM at the Water Resources Education Center, Vancouver. Drop-in hands-on activities about aquifers, drinking water and conservation for ages 5–12. Free. More info
• Saving Grace Church Baking and Becoming – 3:30 PM–6:00 PM in Battle Ground. Kids of all ages learn the basics of baking, then enjoy dessert and a pasta bar dinner. Free; reservations requested. More info
• Preschool Puppet Party – 4:30 PM at Camas Public Library. Mr. Elliot brings fun puppets and interactive games for families. No registration required. Free. More info
• Ridgefield Art Association Presents Wonderland – 5:00 PM–7:00 PM opening reception at Ridgefield Art Gallery, 104 N. Main Ave. Featuring the work of Rose Jubb with guest artist Holly Minnich. Free. More info
• Journey Theater Arts Presents: Into the Woods – 6:00 PM at Heritage High School, Vancouver. The beloved Sondheim musical follows a Baker, Cinderella, Jack and a Witch on an intertwined storybook adventure. $22–$26. More info
• Saturdays in the Park: The Filament – 6:00 PM–8:00 PM at Sternwheeler Park, La Center. La Center's family-friendly concert series features The Filament (alternative rock). Free. More info
• Shoot to Thrill AC/DC Tribute Band at O'Keefe Farms – 6:00 PM at O'Keefe Farms, Brush Prairie. Concert in the Sunflowers with food from Krisey's Kitchen, Lemon Smash and Taco Tom's, plus beer and wine. Gates at 4:30 PM. $30. More info
• VanCity Saturday Social Dance – 7:00 PM at VanCity Ballroom, Hazel Dell. A 45-minute beginner lesson followed by social dancing of all styles until 10 PM. No partner needed. $10. More info
• Live Music on the Patio at Farrar's Bistro – 7:00 PM at Farrar's Bistro, 12514 N.W. 36th Ave., Vancouver. Enjoy food, cocktails and live local music on the pet-friendly patio. More info
• Sunset Kayak Paddle – 7:00 PM at Ridgefield Waterfront Park. Alder Creek Kayak & Canoe leads a three-hour guided evening paddle to the Columbia River for sunset and snacks on the beach. All skill levels; reservations required. More info
• Harry Potter and the Cursed Child – 7:30 PM at Keller Auditorium, Portland. Broadway's Tony-winning spectacular brings the next chapter of the wizarding world to the stage. More info
• Free Family Movie Night: The Parent Trap – 7:30 PM at The Daily Paper Coffee Shop. Games, activities, raffle, food, drinks and s'mores. Free. More info
• Saturday Karaoke Night at Pour Choices Pub – 8:30 PM at 1919 Main St., Vancouver. Let your inner entertainer shine — come solo or bring friends. More info

Sunday, August 2

• Community Kayaking at Timothy Lake with Adventures Without Limits – 8:45 AM. Road trip to Timothy Lake for an inclusive, accessible community kayak trip. Sign up through Adventures Without Limits. More info
• Free Outdoor Fitness Bootcamps – 9:00 AM at Northwest Personal Training, 1011 Broadway, Vancouver. A full-body muscle and cardio workout at various scenic Vancouver locations. All fitness levels welcome. Fill out a bootcamp waiver at nwpersonaltraining.com before class. More info
• Crater Glacier Overlook Hike with MSHI – 9:00 AM at Mount St. Helens. A specially permitted trek into the volcano's crater for a vantage point of one of the world's youngest glaciers. More info
• Building Soil & Style: Lawn Be Gone! – 10:00 AM. Good Year Farms and Lydia Cox from Radish Gardens teach how to convert lawn into lush planting beds, with hands-on demos, local sourcing tips and a step-by-step planning guide. More info
• Binteeji – Vintage Japanese Car Show and Asian Market – 11:00 AM–2:00 PM at The Waterfront Vancouver, 600 W. Columbia Way. Classic Japanese cars, an Asian market, craft vendors and live music. Free. More info
• Kids Axe Academy – 12:00 PM–1:30 PM at Firehouse Axes, Vancouver. Ages 10–14 learn the ins and outs of axe throwing with an Axepert Coach, ending with a tournament. $15. More info
• CCVLP Garden Party & Auction – 1:00 PM at Jacquot Vineyard. An Alice in Wonderland-inspired afternoon fundraiser for the Clark County Volunteer Lawyers Program featuring food, tea, a silent auction and family-friendly fun. More info
• Teen Escape Room at Vancouver Community Library – 3:00 PM (sessions at 3:00 and 4:00 PM). Navigate an underwater-adventure themed escape room designed for teens of various skill levels. Free. More info
• Sip & Paint at Pour Choices Pub with Coiya J. Art – 3:00 PM at Pour Choices Pub, 1919 Main St., Vancouver. Paint a botanical design on the patio while enjoying drinks. All experience levels welcome. More info
• Sunday Sounds Concert Series – 6:00 PM at Columbia Tech Center Park, east Vancouver. Free live music for all ages with food and refreshments available from local vendors. More info

Monday, August 3

• Early Learners Play to Learn – 10:00 AM–11:00 AM at Battle Ground Community Library. Early literacy tips and hands-on activities for ages 0–5 and their grown-ups. Free. More info
• The Great Summer Dash at Vancouver Mall – 10:00 AM. Complete fun challenges, earn points and enter for chances to win prizes as you explore, shop and dine your way through summer at the mall. More info
• Storytime in the Park – 10:30 AM–11:00 AM at Fallen Leaf Lake Park, Camas (2911 NE Everett St.). Camas Library brings family storytime outdoors — bring a blanket. All ages. Free. More info
• HOPE Dementia Support: Meet Me at the Art Workshop – 11:00 AM–12:30 PM at Vancouver Arts Hub, 1007 E. Mill Plain Blvd. Guided by art instructor Tricia Hall, participants explore hands-on projects encouraging expression and connection. Free; register at Eventbrite or call 360-513-5754. More info
• Downtown Vancouver Rotary Lunch Meeting – 12:00 PM–1:00 PM at AC Marriott, Vancouver waterfront. Community members are welcome at this weekly gathering. Free. More info
• Line Dancing – 1:30 PM–3:30 PM at Cascade Park Community Library. Learn line dances for fun and exercise — all are welcome. Free. More info
• Summer Movie Monday: Mr. Peabody & Sherman – 2:00 PM–4:00 PM at Camas Public Library. Free; registration required at CamasPL.org/Movies or call 360-834-4692. More info
• Early Learners Music and Movement – 2:30 PM–3:30 PM at Vancouver Community Library. Songs, rhymes, rhythm and dance for ages 0–5 and caregivers. Free. More info
• Summer Lecture Series with the Humane Society – 5:30 PM–7:30 PM at Humane Society for Southwest Washington, 1100 NE 192nd Ave., Vancouver. Learn about animal sheltering, shelter medicine and veterinary care from HSSW experts. Free. More info
• Ridgefield Raptors Baseball – 6:30 PM at Ridgefield Outdoor Recreation Complex. Cheer on Clark County's hometown team under the summer sky. More info
• Cosmic Watercolor Splatter Coasters Workshop – 6:30 PM at Vancouver Arts Hub, 1007 E. Mill Plain Blvd. Susan Soltau of Dragon Half Art teaches wet-on-wet watercolor blending and splatter techniques to create galaxy-inspired coasters. No experience needed; all supplies provided. $35. More info
• Monday Trivia Night at Pour Choices Pub – 6:30 PM at 1919 Main St., Vancouver. Bring a team or come solo for friendly competition and great drinks, hosted by Don Elliott. More info

Tuesday, August 4

• Chipper's Preschool Rides at Oaks Park – 10:00 AM–12:00 PM at Oaks Park, Portland. Little ones (age 6 and younger) ride kiddie rides and select family rides, then enjoy snack and story time with Chipper the Squirrel. $13.50 per child; one adult rides free. More info
• 78th Street Heritage Farm Walking Tours – 10:00 AM in Hazel Dell. WSU Extension Master Gardeners lead tours of the historic "poor farm" turned demonstration garden — on the Washington Historic Register since 2012. More info
• Columbia Springs "Explore with the Interns" – Rocks & Fossils – 10:00 AM–12:00 PM at Columbia Springs, 12208 SE Evergreen Hwy, Vancouver. Hands-on activities with rocks and fossils on the lawn near the fish feeding pond. More info
• Art Chat at Ridgefield Community Library – 10:30 AM–12:00 PM. Share your art, learn techniques and network with fellow art lovers. Bring a piece or two, or just come to enjoy the company. Free. More info
• Kids & Tweens Great Build Off – 10:30 AM–12:00 PM at Three Creeks Community Library. Use provided materials to design, build and problem-solve your way through a surprise challenge. Free. More info
• English Conversation Group for Adults – 12:30 PM–2:00 PM at Camas Public Library. Practice speaking and listening in a supportive group setting. Free. More info
• Estate Planning Seminar – 2:30 PM at Cogir at The Quarry, Vancouver. Attorney Karen Webber of Pettis Webber Pacific presents "When Do You Need Legal Lemonade?" — a free seminar on how estate planning helps when life gives you lemons. In-person and virtual. Register at 360-696-2069. More info
• FVRL Workshop: Gardener Gathers – 6:30 PM. OSU Hood River Extension Master Gardeners lead an interactive presentation to help home gardeners of all abilities grow their skills. Free. More info

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