📰 What's Making News

April Joy Farm Becomes Clark County's First Legacy Lands Property

Ridgefield's April Joy Farm just made history as the first farm enrolled in Clark County's Legacy Lands program, which funded a conservation easement through the Washington Farmland Trust to protect the land from development — permanently. In a county where farmland faces constant pressure from growth, this is a meaningful milestone. The program signals that Clark County is putting real resources behind keeping working farms in the landscape, not just talking about it. Read more in The Columbian.

Columbia River High's Katie McClellan Will Row for Team USA in Bulgaria

Vancouver's Katie McClellan, a student at Columbia River High School, is headed to Plovdiv, Bulgaria, to compete in the 2026 World Rowing Under 19 Championships from Aug. 6-9. She'll represent the United States on the world stage — not a bad way to spend the last stretch of summer before school starts. It's the kind of quiet, enormous achievement that deserves a whole lot of neighborhood pride. Full story here.

What Do Clark County's Top CEOs Actually Earn?

Clark County is home to six publicly traded companies, and their newly disclosed 2025 CEO compensation packages range widely — with two local chief executives pulling in eight-figure paydays. The companies include familiar names like ZoomInfo, nLIGHT, Absci, Barrett Business Services, and Riverview Bank. It's a fascinating look at the corporate side of a county most people associate with small-town charm. See the full breakdown from The Columbian.

Dragon Boats Take Over Lake River in Ridgefield

Rowing clubs from across the Pacific Northwest descended on Ridgefield's Lake River on Saturday for the 2026 Paddle for Life dragon boat races. The annual event brings color, competition, and a whole lot of splashing to one of Clark County's most scenic waterways. If you missed it in person, The Columbian's photo gallery is the next best thing. Check out the photos.

Raptors Erupt for Five in the Eighth, Crush Springfield 12-6

The Ridgefield Raptors broke open a tight game with a five-run eighth inning Friday night, beating Springfield 12-6. Nate Stiveson (Loyola Marymount) delivered the knockout blow with a three-run double, while Braden Watson (UC Santa Barbara) scored the go-ahead run earlier on a balk in the seventh. Summer ball at the Ridgefield Outdoor Recreation Complex remains one of the best cheap dates in Clark County. Full game recap here.

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⚡ Quick Bites

19 Microgrants Up for Grabs — Vancouver Applications Due Sept. 18

The City of Vancouver just opened its final round of 2026 Community and Neighborhood Grants, offering up to $500 each for neighborhood gatherings, cultural events, and community projects. Nonprofits, neighborhood associations, and youth organizations are all eligible. Get the details and apply here.

Mariners Ship Luis Castillo to White Sox in Deadline Shakeup

Seattle traded right-hander Luis Castillo to Chicago on Saturday night, bringing back pitcher Seranthony Domínguez, outfielder Nolan Jones, and catching prospect Boston Smith. A big roster move heading into August for our regional team. Full trade breakdown here.

Statewide Fire Emergency Declared as Wildfires Surge

A fast-moving wildfire in Spokane jumped the Spokane River on Saturday, forcing thousands to evacuate, and drought, heat, and wind are fueling fires across Washington. Keep an eye on air quality this week — conditions are elevated statewide. Read more from The Columbian.

Clark County Business Briefing: What You Missed This Week

The Columbian's latest business roundup covers the local moves and deals worth knowing about in Clark County. Catch up on the full briefing here.

WSU Football Still Hunting for a Starting QB Before Fall Camp

Head coach Kirby Moore wrapped up spring practices without naming a starter, and the Cougars head into fall with the quarterback battle wide open. One to watch if you follow Pac-12 football from this side of the state. Read the full story.

Hood Canal Shellfish Growers Face an Uncertain Harvest Season

Oyster farmers Nate Wight and Amber Taulbee should be out on Hood Canal's tidelands right now, filling orders for restaurants and grocers — but Washington's shellfish industry is navigating a tough stretch. Here's what's at stake.

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📅 Mark Your Calendar

Sunday, August 2

• 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
• ROAD TRIP: Community Kayaking at Timothy Lake with Adventures Without Limits – 8:45 AM. Join Adventures Without Limits for an inclusive and accessible community kayak trip at Timothy Lake. More info
• Free Outdoor Fitness Bootcamps – 9:00 AM at Northwest Personal Training, 1011 Broadway, Vancouver. Full-body muscle and cardio workout at scenic locations around Vancouver — all fitness levels welcome. Fill out a waiver at nwpersonaltraining.com before class. Free. More info
• Crater Glacier Overlook Hike with MSHI – 9:00 AM at Mt. St. Helens. A specially permitted trek into the volcano's crater to a viewpoint overlooking Crater Glacier — one of the world's youngest and fastest-growing glaciers. More info
• Downtown Vancouver Market – 10:00 AM–3:00 PM at Esther Short Park, Vancouver. Vancouver's flagship year-round farmers market, running since 1990. More info
• Farm Days at Pomeroy Farm – 10:00 AM–5:00 PM at Pomeroy Farm, Yacolt. Live demonstrations by local artisans, hands-on experiences, and farm fun. Admission $3 for ages 6+, free for 5 and under. More info
• August Jamboree at Pomeroy Farm – 10:00 AM–5:00 PM at Pomeroy Farm, Yacolt. Live music, historic farm grounds, children's activities, farm animals, and food. Admission $3 for ages 6+, free for 5 and under. Free parking. More info
• Building Soil & Style in Your Space: Lawn Be Gone! – 10:00 AM. Good Year Farms and Lydia Cox from Radish Gardens teach how to convert lawn into lush planting beds — covering methods, materials, local sourcing, and tool recommendations. Includes a hands-on demo. More info
• Northwest Children's Theater Alumni Presents: Robin Hood – 11:00 AM at The Judy, Portland. A fast-paced, comedic adaptation featuring NWCT alumni on stage and behind the scenes. $20–$25. More info
• Binteeji – Vintage Japanese Car Show and Asian Market – 11:00 AM–2:00 PM at The Waterfront Vancouver (600 W Columbia Way). A celebration of Japanese culture with vintage cars, an Asian market, craft vendors, and music. Free. More info
• Chelatchie Prairie Railroad Summer Train Rides – 12:00 PM at Chelatchie Prairie Railroad Station, Yacolt. Ride through the tunnel, across the East Fork of the Lewis River, with a stop at Moulton Station to visit Yacolt Falls. $18–$24; lap children under 3 free. More info
• Kids Axe Academy – 12:00–1:30 PM at Firehouse Axes, Vancouver. A 90-minute axe-throwing session for ages 10–14, taught by an Axepert Coach and ending with a tournament. Limited to 8 kids. $15. More info
• Harry Potter and the Cursed Child – 1:00 PM at Keller Auditorium, Portland. Broadway's Tony Award-winning spectacular brings the next chapter of the wizarding world to the stage. More info
• CCVLP Garden Party & Auction – 1:00 PM at Jacquot Vineyard. The Clark County Volunteer Lawyers Program hosts an Alice in Wonderland-inspired afternoon fundraiser with 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) at Vancouver Community Library. An underwater-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 Street, Vancouver. Paint a botanical design on the patio in a relaxed setting — no experience needed. More info
• Sunday Sounds Concert Series – 6:00 PM at Columbia Tech Center Park, Vancouver. Free live music for all ages. Food and refreshments available from local vendors, or bring a picnic. More info

Monday, August 3

• Early Learners Play to Learn – 10:00–11:00 AM at Battle Ground Community Library. Hands-on early literacy activities for ages 0–5 and their grown-ups. Free. More info
• The Great Summer Dash at Vancouver Mall – 10:00 AM at Vancouver Mall. Complete fun challenges, earn points, and enter for chances to win prizes all summer long. More info
• Storytime in the Park – 10:30–11:00 AM at Fallen Leaf Lake Park (2911 NE Everett St.), Camas. The 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, Vancouver. Guided by art instructor Tricia Hall, participants with dementia explore hands-on projects encouraging expression and connection. Free; registration required. More info
• Downtown Vancouver Rotary Lunch Meeting – 12:00–1:00 PM at AC Hotel by Marriott Vancouver Waterfront. Community members welcome. Free. More info
• Line Dancing – 1:30–3:30 PM at Cascade Park Community Library. Learn line dances for fun and exercise — all welcome. Free. More info
• Summer Movie Mondays at Camas Public Library – 2:00–4:00 PM at Camas Public Library. This week's film: Mr. Peabody & Sherman. Registration required. Free. More info
• Early Learners Music and Movement – 2:30–3:30 PM at Vancouver Community Library. Songs, rhymes, rhythm, and dance for ages 0–5 and their parents or caregivers. Free. More info
• Summer Lecture Series with the Humane Society – 5:30–7:30 PM at Humane Society for Southwest Washington, 1100 NE 192nd Ave, Vancouver. Free. More info
• Ridgefield Raptors Baseball Home Game – 6:30 PM at Ridgefield Outdoor Recreation Complex. Cheer on Clark County's hometown baseball team. More info
• Cosmic Watercolor Splatter Coasters Workshop – 6:30 PM at Vancouver Arts Hub, 1007 E. Mill Plain Blvd, Vancouver. Susan Soltau of Dragon Half Art teaches wet-on-wet watercolor blending and splatter techniques — no experience needed, all supplies provided. $35. More info
• Monday Trivia Night at Pour Choices Pub – 6:30 PM at Pour Choices Pub, 1919 Main St., Vancouver. Hosted by Don Elliott — bring a team or come solo. More info

Tuesday, August 4

• ROAD TRIP: Backpacking & Rafting at Mt. Jefferson/McKenzie River – 8:30 AM, departing for Oregon. Explore Three-Fingered Jack in the Mt. Jefferson Wilderness with the Opal Creek Ancient Forest Center — summit a volcano, share meadows with mountain goats, and enjoy the Pacific Crest Trail. More info
• Chippers Preschool Rides at Oaks Park – 10:00 AM–12:30 PM at Oaks Park, Portland. Kiddie rides and select family rides for ages 6 and younger, plus 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 at 78th St., Hazel Dell. WSU Extension Master Gardener docents lead tours of this 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 focused on rocks and fossils, tabling on the lawn near the fish feeding pond. More info
• Art Chat at Ridgefield Community Library – 10:30 AM–12:00 PM at Ridgefield Community Library. Bring a piece or two of your own art to share, or just enjoy the camaraderie. 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 through a surprise challenge. Free. More info
• English Conversation Group for Adults – 12:30–2:00 PM at Camas Public Library. Practice speaking and listening in a supportive environment. Free. More info
• Law Firm Hosts 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?" — available in-person and virtually. Free; registration required at 360-696-2069. More info
• Teen & Tween Tabletop RPG: Character Creation Workshop – 3:00–4:00 PM at Three Creeks Community Library. Learn Dungeons & Dragons character creation from step one. Ages 9–19. Free. More info
• Tween & Teen Tabletop Role-Playing Game – 4:30–6:30 PM at various FVRL library locations. Open play of D&D 5E and Pathfinder 1E — newcomers and experienced players welcome. Ages 9–19. Free. More info
• Eastside Community Picnic and National Night Out – 5:00–8:00 PM at LeRoy Haagen Memorial Community Park, Vancouver. Food carts, music, a bounce house, inflatable obstacle course, kids activities, and booths from local nonprofits and businesses. Free. More info
• Shut Up and Write! Writers Group – 5:15–6:45 PM at Vancouver Arts Hub, 1007 E. Mill Plain Blvd, Vancouver. Dedicated writing time with fellow writers of all experience levels — no readings or critiques. Free. More info
• Spanish Conversation Group – 5:30–6:30 PM at Camas Public Library. Geared toward beginning Spanish speakers. No registration required. Free. More info
• Kitchen Confidence for Youth with Vision Loss – 5:30–7:30 PM at Clark County Food Bank, Vancouver. Chef Debra Erickson of The Blind Kitchen teaches safe cooking techniques, labeling, and organization for young people ages 8–22. Parents/caregivers must attend. Free. More info
• Page Turners Book Club – 6:30 PM at Camas Public Library. A book club for fourth through sixth graders and their adults — register, pick up the book, and keep it for free. More info
• FVRL Workshop: Gardener Gathers – 6:30 PM. OSU Hood River Extension Central Gorge Master Gardeners lead an interactive presentation for home gardeners of all abilities. Free. More info
• Science Pub: This Is Your Brain on Tech – 7:00 PM at OMSI, Portland. Psychologist and author Doreen Dodgen-Magee, Psy.D., explores how technology use shapes our brains, relationships, and sense of self. $8. More info

Wednesday, August 5

• Rebecca Anstine Gallery: Impressions of the Pacific Northwest – 8:00 AM–5:00 PM at the Rebecca Anstine Sixth Floor Gallery, Clark County Public Service Center, Vancouver. Artists Oleg Ulitskiy and Elizabeth Ganji celebrate the region's moody landscapes and vibrant moments. Free. More info
• Enhance Fitness Classes – 8:30 AM at Bethel Lutheran Church, Brush Prairie. Evidence-based group exercise for older adults (60+) — classes at 8:30 and 10:00 AM. More info
• Reclaimed Creations Exhibit at OMSI – 9:30 AM at OMSI, Portland. Artist Sayaka Ganz transforms discarded plastic objects into soaring animals, rushing waves, and sculptures bursting with motion. On view through September 30. More info
• Providence Academy Tours – 10:00 AM–2:00 PM at Providence Academy, Vancouver. Explore one of Vancouver's most beautiful historic landmarks. Free. More info
• Marshall House Tour – 10:00 AM–2:00 PM at the Marshall House, Vancouver. Free 30-minute tours of this historic gem. More info
• The Henrik Bothe Library Circus – 11:00 AM at various FVRL library locations. Physical comedy, juggling, magic, and plate spinning — fun for the whole family. Free. More info
• Contemplative Prayer – 12:20–12:45 PM at St. Paul Lutheran Church, 1309 Franklin St., Vancouver. Quiet music and prayer. Free. More info
• Camas Farmers Market – 3:00–7:00 PM in Downtown Camas (new temporary location on Birch Street between 3rd and 4th Avenues). Fresh produce, local vendors, and community vibes. More info
• Preschool Suncatcher Chains at Camas Public Library – 3:30–4:30 PM at Camas Public Library. Make suncatcher chains out of jelly paper — for ages 3–5. Registration required. Free. More info
• Kids & Tweens Create – 4:00–5:00 PM at Washougal Community Library. Drop-in creative projects for ages 5–12. Free. More info
• Teen & Adult Magic the Gathering Social Club – 4:00–6:00 PM. Open game play — decks provided or bring your own. Free. More info
• Kids Read to a Dog – 4:00–5:00 PM at Cascade Park Community Library. Build reading skills and confidence by reading aloud to a certified therapy dog. Ages 5–9. Free. More info
• Teen Magic the Gathering Social Club – 4:00–6:00 PM at Vancouver Community Library. Open game play for ages 13–19. Decks provided or bring your own. Free. More info
• Kids & Tweens STEM Lab – 4:00–5:30 PM at Vancouver Community Library. Hands-on science, technology, engineering, and math activities for ages 5–12. Free. More info
• 100 Women Who Care Clark County Quarterly Meeting – 5:00 PM (social hour) / 6:00 PM (meeting) at The Hammond Kitchen and Craft Bar, Camas. Members vote to select one local nonprofit to receive the evening's donations. More info
• Community Dragon Boat Paddle – 5:30 PM at Ridgefield Public Boat Launch. Free and open to paddlers 14+ — no experience needed, equipment provided. More info
• Leathercrafting Workshop with Dragon Half Art – 5:30 PM at The Arts Centered, Vancouver. Create something genuinely cool — beginner-friendly, all materials included. $40–$45. More info
• Weekly Swing Dancing at the Valiant Ballroom – 6:00 PM at The Valiant Ballroom, Vancouver. Intermediate lesson at 6 PM, beginner lesson at 7 PM, social dance 8–9:30 PM. Singles, partners, and groups welcome. $5–$10. More info
• Wild Wednesdays at the Oregon Zoo – 6:00–9:00 PM at Oregon Zoo, Portland. Adults-only (21+) after-hours evening with themed cocktails, live entertainment, and keeper chats. More info

Thursday, August 6

• Advanced Competitive Bridge Bidding – 10:00 AM–12:00 PM at Vancouver Bridge Club, 6503 E. Mill Plain Blvd. Instructor Michael Walker (Ruby Life Master) covers opening bidding, slam bidding, takeout doubles, and more. $10–$50. More info
• Go With the Flow: Wastewater Treatment Plant Tour – 10:00–11:30 AM at the Water Resources Education Center, Vancouver. See what happens to all the water that goes down the drain — indoor-outdoor tour for ages 8+. Free. More info
• Vancouver Bridge Club Introductory Bridge Class – 10:00 AM–12:00 PM at Vancouver Bridge Club, 6503 Mill Plain Blvd. Six-week series for beginners. $10 per lesson or $50 for all six. More info
• Family Storytime at Ridgefield National Wildlife Refuge – 10:30–11:00 AM at the Ridgefield NWR Community Nature Center, 28908 NW Main Ave, Ridgefield. The Ridgefield Community Library crew brings storytime outdoors — the nature center is open 10 AM–12 PM, with trails open all day. Free (daily refuge entrance fee applies). More info
• Create a Tiny World: Miniature Shadow Box Workshop with Lara Blair – 4:00 PM. Build a unique miniature scene inside a shadow box — forest, giant cupcake, outer space, you decide. Ages 8+. $7. More info

Friday, August 7

• Volunteer Gleaning: SWWA Victory Garden – 9:00 AM at 2311 NE 68th Street, Vancouver. Many hands make light work — join fellow gardeners to keep this community garden growing; harvested produce is donated to LULAC. More info
• Fintastic Fish! – 9:30–11:30 AM at the Water Resources Education Center, Vancouver. Families with kids ages 6–10 learn about Pacific lamprey and salmon lifecycles through indoor and outdoor activities. Free; registration required. More info
• ROAD TRIP: Family Mountain Bike Ride Days at Timberline Lodge – 9:30 AM at Mt. Hood, OR. Kids and teens 17 and under ride free with an adult day ticket or season pass. Bike and gear rentals available on-site. More info
• Vancouver Arts and Music Festival – 10:00 AM–9:00 PM at Esther Short Park, Vancouver. A three-day free festival (Aug. 7–9) featuring award-winning musicians, visual artists, juried art shows, dance performances, family activities, food vendors, and three concerts by the Vancouver Symphony Orchestra. More info
• Clark County Fair – 10:00 AM at Clark County Fairgrounds, Ridgefield. Opening day of the 10-day fair (Aug. 7–16) with a carnival (opens at noon daily), exhibits, and more. Gate admission $10–$13; kids 6 and under free. Save by buying tickets online. More info
• Lunchtime Walking Tour: The Big Fire — How Downtown Changed – 12:00 PM, meet at Esther Short Park Waterfall Fountain. Historian Tracy Reilly-Kelly explores how the 1910 fire and other blazes shaped downtown Vancouver, plus the history of Esther Short Park and the Pioneer Mother Statue. Free. More info
• FVRL: Adult Nature Lovers Book Group – 4:00 PM. Discuss Ocean by David Attenborough — attend in person or online. For adults 18+. Free. More info
• Dragon Boat Paddle in Ridgefield – 5:30 PM at Ridgefield Public Boat Launch. Free community paddling for ages 14+ — no experience needed, equipment provided. More info

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