📰 What's Making News

Battle Ground's James Gill III Claims All-Region Baseball Honor for Third Straight Year

Here's a name worth knowing: James Gill III of Battle Ground just earned The Columbian's All-Region baseball player of the year award for the third time — a feat that speaks for itself. Gill helped lead the Tigers to their first league title since 2017, capping a dominant high school career. If you've been following Clark County prep sports, you've watched this kid build a legacy in real time. Read the full story at The Columbian.

Five Local Athletes Vie for All-Region Multi-Sport Honor

The Columbian also announced five finalists for its All-Region multi-sport male athlete of the year, and the list reads like a who's-who of Clark County high school talent: Toren Baker of Skyview, Charlie Barr of Camas, Travis Lundberg of Washougal, Brian McLemore III of Ridgefield, and Tommie Vick of Prairie. Each of these athletes stood out across multiple sports this past school year. It's a good reminder that our local programs are producing some seriously well-rounded competitors. See all five finalists here.

Cougar Creek Restoration Targets 7 Miles of Buried, Polluted Waterway

Cougar Creek flows from its headwaters at the 78th Street Heritage Farm into Salmon Creek — or at least it's supposed to. Decades of development have buried, piped, and polluted the roughly seven-mile-long creek until it's nearly untraceable. Now Clark County is working on projects to restore wetlands and shore up the waterway, with the goal of improving water quality for the entire Salmon Creek watershed. It's a fascinating look at what happens when a community decides to undo some of the damage that came with growth. The Columbian has the deep dive.

Raptors Cruise Past Marion 8-2 Behind Hearn's Two-Run Blast

Summer baseball is officially here, and the Ridgefield Raptors are making it look good. Isaiah Hearn (University of Oregon) launched a two-run homer in the second inning Thursday night, putting the Raptors up 3-1 on their way to a convincing 8-2 win over Marion. If you haven't made it out to the Ridgefield Outdoor Recreation Complex yet this season, the early returns suggest this squad is worth the trip. Get the full game recap.

Summer Driving Season Starts Now — Clark County Agencies Urge Caution

Local and state agencies are kicking off their annual "90 Dangerous Days" campaign, reminding Clark County drivers that the stretch between Memorial Day and Labor Day is historically the deadliest on the road. The Washington State Patrol, Clark County Sheriff's Office, and Vancouver city officials are all urging drivers to slow down and stay sober as summer plans ramp up. It's not exactly the fun kind of summer announcement, but it's the kind of heads-up that could genuinely matter. Read the details from The Columbian.

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⚡ Quick Bites

Vancouver's Todd Pisarczyk Lands Forbes Top Wealth Advisor List — Again

Todd Pisarczyk, founder and CEO of Momentous Wealth Management, earned the No. 60 spot in Washington on the Forbes SHOOK Best-In-State Wealth Advisors list for 2026 — his second consecutive year on the ranking.

Chinook Salmon Swim Past Toutle River Dam for First Time Since Mt. St. Helens Erupted

Spring chinook salmon are once again swimming above the sediment retention dam on the North Fork Toutle River — a passage blocked since the 1980 eruption of Mount St. Helens. It's a milestone decades in the making for the river's recovery. Full story here.

Deer on Washington Roads? Here's Why Sightings Are Spiking

If your evening commute has felt a little more wildlife-adjacent lately, you're not imagining it. The Columbian breaks down why deer-vehicle encounters are climbing across Washington state, especially at dusk on rural highways.

Woodland Park Zoo's Newborn Gorillas Thrive After Rare Mom Swap

Two baby gorillas born at Seattle's Woodland Park Zoo are both healthy after an unusual move — the mothers swapped babies when one infant had a rough start following a C-section delivery. Read the full story.

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📅 Mark Your Calendar

Sunday, June 14

• Vancouver Arts and Music Festival Call for Artists! — Local and regional artists and makers are invited to apply for the Visual Arts & Creative Makers Marketplace, a central feature of VAMF. Artists at all stages are encouraged to apply, including those eligible for the Emerging Artist category. More info
• Get Outdoors Day — Movie Matinee with the City of Vancouver — Join the City of Vancouver's Naturespaces team for a Bee City USA celebration featuring the documentary The Little Things That Run the World, spotlighting pollinators and their vital role in healthy ecosystems. Space is limited — register in advance. More info
• Birding Hike with Vancouver Audubon Society — 7:00 AM at Fort Vancouver National Historic Site. Explore this urban oasis with the Vancouver Audubon Society. Nesting season is in full swing — expect fledglings, Savannah Sparrows, Lazuli Buntings, and more. All are welcome. More info
• ROAD TRIP: PCTA Trail Work Project at Benson Plateau — 8:00 AM. Join the Mount Hood Chapter of the Pacific Crest Trail Association for a crosscut logout of the PCT to Benson Plateau. Max 8 volunteers; registration required. Contact Jake Rawdin for details. More info
• Mount Adams Trail Jamboree and Campout with WTA — 8:30 AM at Trapper Creek in the Mount Adams Ranger District. Spend the day doing trail stewardship, then enjoy a campout with s'mores and good company. Families welcome — join for one day or all three. More info
• Free Outdoor Fitness Bootcamps — 9:00 AM at Northwest Personal Training, 1011 Broadway, Vancouver. Every Sunday through Aug. 30, enjoy a free full-body muscle and cardio workout at scenic Vancouver locations. All fitness levels welcome. Fill out a waiver at nwpersonaltraining.com before class. More info
• Ridgefield — Learn to Kayak Tour — 9:00 AM at Ridgefield Waterfront Park. Join Alder Creek Kayak & Canoe for a guided paddle through the Columbia River Water Trail near Ridgefield National Wildlife Refuge. Practice paddling skills while enjoying birds and wildlife along Lake River. More info
• Downtown Vancouver Market — 10:00 AM–3:00 PM at Esther Short Park, 8th & Esther St., Vancouver. The flagship Vancouver Farmers Market runs year-round in the heart of downtown. Shop local produce, artisan goods, and more. More info
• Two Rivers Heritage Museum Plant Sales — 10:00 AM–3:00 PM at Two Rivers Heritage Museum, 1 Durgan St., Washougal. Locally grown plants, including many native varieties. All proceeds benefit the Camas-Washougal Historical Society. More info
• America 250 Series: Flag Day — 12:00 PM. Enjoy patriotic music, poetry readings by Christopher Luna, an educational display of American flags that have flown over the Vancouver Barracks, living history meet-and-greets, and a flag craft activity. Food trucks on site. Free small flags for the first 500 guests. More info
• ilani BBQ Fest — 12:00 PM at ilani Casino Resort, Ridgefield. Featuring Food Network BBQ Brawl stars Kyle Bryner, Brad Leighninger, and Tyler Anderson. Sip 150+ craft beverages, enjoy cooking demos, and savor bites from top pitmasters. $44–$99. More info
• Volunteer for Impact Camas-Washougal Summer Food Drive — 12:00 PM at Parker's Landing Historical Park, Washougal. Help pack 200 boxes with pantry staples and grocery gift cards for local families. Includes a free barbecue lunch and live music by the Camas-Washougal Community Orchestra. More info
• Flag Day at the O.O. Howard House — 12:00–4:00 PM at 750 Anderson St., Vancouver. The Historic Trust hosts a free, family-friendly celebration with performances by the Vancouver Symphony Orchestra brass quintet and Navy Band Northwest, plus arts and crafts and living history characters. Free handheld flags for the first 500 attendees. More info
• Flag Day Ceremony at Vancouver Elks Lodge — 1:00 PM at Vancouver Elks Lodge #823. The Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks hosts this annual ceremony featuring readings, music, and the Pledge of Allegiance. Bring friends and family. Free. More info
• The Bridges of Madison County — 2:00 PM at Magenta Theater, Vancouver. This Tony Award-winning musical captures the lyrical sweep of America's heartland. Based on the best-selling novel, with music by Jason Robert Brown. Runs June 12–28. $32. More info
• Paradise of Samoa Polynesian Dance Troupe — 2:00–3:00 PM at Vancouver Community Library. Feel the rhythm of the Pacific through dance and authentic music celebrating the traditions of Hawaii, Tahiti, Samoa, and New Zealand. Free and joyful for all ages. More info
• Clark College Concert Band Spring Concert — 3:00 PM at Skyview High School, Vancouver. Directed by Dr. Doug Harris, the program includes Holst's Second Suite in F, small ensembles, a percussion ensemble, and principal horn Fiona Rice performing Strauss. Free admission; donations welcome. More info
• Jazz, Wine, and Canines — 3:00 PM at the Grant House, Vancouver. Southwest Washington Humane Society presents a sunny afternoon of jazz, gourmet buffet, and a guided wine experience with Willamette Valley winemakers — and your four-legged friends are welcome. $200. More info
• Fruit Jar Workshop at Kilnfolk Clay Studio — 3:30–5:30 PM at Kilnfolk Clay Studio, 108 W. Sixth St., Vancouver. Ages 8+ learn to make a lidded vessel using pinch pot and coil techniques in this beginner-friendly class. $75 includes up to two glaze colors. More info
• The Birth Book Launch with Dr. Jennifer Lincoln — 4:15–5:30 PM at Vancouver Community Library. Portland OB-GYN and author Dr. Jen Lincoln presents her new book, The Birth Book, followed by a signing and meet-and-greet. Hosted by Childbirth Allies. $33.60 includes a copy of the book. More info
• Silver Star Mountain Hike with Mazamas — 5:30 PM. Hike Silver Star Mountain via Ed's Trail and Indian Pits — expect possible wildflowers, volcano views, a little scramble, and a walk through a rock arch. More info

Monday, June 15

• Early Learners Play to Learn — 10:00–11:00 AM at Battle Ground Community Library. Fun early literacy tips and hands-on activities for ages 0–5 and their caregivers. Free. More info
• The Great Summer Dash at Vancouver Mall — Starting June 15 through Aug. 14. Complete fun challenges, earn points, and enter to win prizes all summer long as you explore, shop, dine, and play at Vancouver Mall. More info
• HOPE Walk at Sarah's Gardens — 10:00 AM. HOPE Dementia Support welcomes people living with dementia and their care partners for a peaceful, creative morning at Sarah's Garden. More info
• Storytime in the Park — 10:30–11:00 AM at Crown Park, 120 NE 17th Ave., Camas. Bring a blanket and join Camas Library staff for a family storytime outdoors. For all ages. Free. More info
• Official Vancouver Fan Zone Watch Party — FIFA World Cup 26 — 12:00 PM at Big Al's, Vancouver. Vancouver, WA is an Official Fan Zone of the FIFA World Cup 26. Gather for massive screens, stadium energy, and world-class atmosphere. More info
• Downtown Vancouver Rotary Lunch Meeting — 12:00–1:00 PM at AC Marriott Vancouver Waterfront. Community members are welcome to join the weekly lunch meeting. Free. More info
• Line Dancing — 1:30–3:30 PM at Cascade Park Community Library, Vancouver. Lace up your dancing shoes and learn line dances for fun and exercise. Free. More info
• Vancouver Chrysanthemum Society Meeting — 2:00–3:30 PM at 78th Street Heritage Farm, 1919 NE 78th St., Vancouver. Visitors and non-members welcome — come connect with fellow growers of fall's most beautiful flower. 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 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. Learn about trends in animal sheltering and shelter medicine from HSSW's Jenn Rylander and Dr. Sydney Lee. Free. More info
• Story Explorers at Camas Public Library — 6:30–7:30 PM. A book discussion group for 2nd–3rd graders and their adults. This month: Beatrice Zinker Upside Down Thinker by Shelley Johannes. Limited to 12 spots. Free. More info
• Monday Night Trivia at Pour Choices Pub — 6:30 PM at Pour Choices Pub, 1919 Main St., Vancouver. Gather your smartest friends and put your knowledge to the test. Can you dethrone last week's winners, Goon Sauce? More info

Tuesday, June 16

• Columbia River Volleyball Future Rapids Camp — 9:00 AM–3:00 PM at Columbia River High School, Vancouver. First through fifth graders learn new skills from state champion Columbia River players. June 16–18. $200, includes a camp t-shirt. Bring your own lunch. More info
• Pairs and Spares Seniors Breakfast — 10:00 AM at Kitchen Table Cafe, 705 NE 136th Ave., Vancouver. Info: 360-892-8944. More info
• Tween & Teen Tabletop Role-Playing Game — 4:30–6:30 PM at various FVRL library locations. Ages 9–19 can create a character and play Dungeons & Dragons 5E or Pathfinder 1E. Free. More info
• Pints and Pottery at Brothers Cascadia — 5:00–7:00 PM at Brothers Cascadia Evergreen Pub, 108 W. Evergreen Blvd., Vancouver. Kilnfolk Clay Studio brings a pottery painting pop-up — $32 includes one piece and all materials. Group demo at 5:15 PM. More info
• Shut Up and Write! Writers Group — 5:15–6:45 PM at Vancouver Arts Hub, 1007 E. Mill Plain Blvd. A weekly group for writers of all levels featuring dedicated writing time — no readings or critiques. Free parking. More info
• Spanish Conversation Group — 5:30–6:30 PM at Camas Public Library. Geared toward adult beginning Spanish speakers. No registration required. Free. More info
• Learn to Granny Square Crochet at Craft Collective — 6:00 PM at Craft Collective, Vancouver. Taught by Becka of Radiant Beans, this beginner-friendly class covers foundational crochet to create your own modern granny square. $60. More info
• Aram Arslanian at Kascadia Public House — 6:00 PM at Kascadia Public House, Washougal. Aram Arslanian (performing as ORPHAN TRAIN) plays original music on second Tuesdays. Free. More info
• 78th St. Heritage Farm Walking Tours — 6:00 PM at 78th Street Heritage Farm, 1919 NE 78th St., Vancouver. Free guided tours of the 79-acre historic property with WSU Extension Master Gardener docents. Learn about the farm's history, horticulture education, and food security programs. More info
• Back to the Future: The Musical — 7:30 PM at Keller Auditorium, Portland. The beloved cinematic classic is now a Broadway musical — winner of the 2022 Olivier Award for Best New Musical. From $58. More info

Wednesday, June 17

• TOPS WA 1056 Vancouver — 8:15 AM weigh-in, 9:30 AM meeting at Fourth Plain Nazarene Church, 16807 NE Fourth Plain Blvd. Info: 206-915-4627. More info
• Enhance Fitness Classes — 8:30–9:30 AM and 10:00–11:00 AM at Bethel Lutheran Church, 12919 NE 159th St., Brush Prairie. An evidence-based group exercise program for older adults (60+). More info
• Camp Hope of SW WA — Summer Camps for Kids — 9:00 AM. Outdoor Discovery Camps for ages 6–17 featuring science explorations, creative crafts, and nature adventures that build confidence and leadership. More info
• Marshall House Tours — 10:00 AM–2:00 PM at Marshall House, Fort Vancouver National Historic Site. Free tours of this historic home featuring period furnishings, military memorabilia, and General George C. Marshall's study. Walk-ins welcome. More info
• Providence Academy Tours — 10:00 AM–2:00 PM at Providence Academy, Vancouver. Tour this historic building by reservation or walk-in. Free. More info
• A Summer BBQ with the Vancouver Chinese Association — 11:00 AM–3:00 PM at Blue Lake Regional Park, Shahala Shelter A. Enjoy delicious grilled meats and local specialties with the local Chinese community. Everyone is welcome — newcomers and long-time residents alike. More info
• Crisis Intervention and De-escalation Training (C.A.L.M.) — 11:00 AM–12:00 PM at NAMI Southwest Washington, Vancouver. A free presentation on understanding mental health crises, practical de-escalation techniques, and reducing stigma. Valuable for businesses and community organizations. More info
• Camas Farmers Market — 3:00–7:00 PM in Downtown Camas (new temporary location on Birch Street between 3rd and 4th Avenues). A weekly celebration of local agriculture, artisan goods, and community. More info
• Forest Walk at Columbia Springs — 3:30 PM at Columbia Springs, 12208 SE Evergreen Hwy, Vancouver. Discover native plants and wildlife on a guided walk through the trails with knowledgeable staff. Great for all ages (trails not stroller-friendly). Free. More info
• Trainer in the Park — 3:30–5:30 PM at Lucky Dog Park, 10100 NE 149th St., Brush Prairie. Free training advice from Julie Mills of Paws Down Pets. Look for the green DogPaw flags. More info
• Tummy Time at Camas Public Library — 3:30–4:45 PM. For babies under 18 months. Register at CamasPL.org/tummytime or call 360-834-4692. Free. More info
• Kids & Tweens Create — 4:00–5:00 PM at Washougal Community Library. Drop in for creative and interactive projects for ages 5–12. Free. More info
• Teen & Adult Magic the Gathering Social Club — 4:00–6:00 PM at Cascade Park Community Library, Vancouver. 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, Vancouver. Ages 5–9 build reading skills and confidence by reading aloud to a certified therapy dog. 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
• Introduction to Sewing Machines — 4:30–6:30 PM at Vancouver Community Library. Learn to thread a machine, select stitches, and create a drawstring pouch. Ages 9+; children under 12 need an accompanying adult. Space limited — register early. Free. More info
• Teen STEM: Solar Oven at Camas Public Library — 4:30–5:30 PM. Grades 6–12 turn a pizza box into a working solar oven — and maybe make s'mores if the sun cooperates. Registration required at CamasPL.org/solar. Free. More info
• Community Dragon Boat Paddle — 5:30 PM at Ridgefield Public Boat Launch. Try this exciting team sport at no cost. Ages 14+, no experience needed, equipment provided. More info
• Ripple Impact NW Giving Pop-up — 5:30–7:00 PM at the Hurley Building, 275 W. Third St., Vancouver. Meet leaders from nonprofits including Ballet Folklorico, EOCF, Listen Line Community Services, NW Furniture Bank, and Urban Abundance. Registration $15 with suggested $100 donation. More info
• Heritage Farm Wetland Restoration Celebration — 5:30 PM. Clark County Public Works celebrates the completion of the Heritage Farm Wetland Restoration — learn how the project restored Cougar Creek's headwater wetlands and riparian area. RSVP required. More info
• Weekly Swing Dancing at the Valiant Ballroom — 6:00 PM at The Valiant Ballroom, 109 W. Ninth St., Vancouver. CouveSwing hosts East Coast and Lindy Hop swing dancing every Wednesday. Intermediate lesson at 6 PM, beginner lesson at 7 PM, social dance 8–9:30 PM. $5–$10. More info
• The Butterflies of Oregon — Online Workshop — 6:00 PM. The Bird Alliance of Oregon walks you through how to identify Oregon's ~150 butterfly species, when they emerge, and what plants they love. More info

Thursday, June 18

• Planters Days in Woodland — Woodland's beloved annual celebration kicks off! This year's theme: "Woodland, Washington — A Legendary Spirit. America 250." Thursday features a Kids Parade, Pet Parade, Coronation, and fireworks at 10 PM. The festival runs through June 21 with a frog jump, bed races, car show, and more. More info
• Trapper Creek Wilderness — WTA Logout Backcountry Response Team — 8:30 AM. Spend four days with Washington Trails Association volunteers removing fallen logs in this old-growth wilderness gem deep in the Gifford Pinchot area. More info
• East Vancouver Farmers Market — 10:00 AM–2:00 PM at Columbia Tech Center, 17701 SE Mill Plain Blvd. Over 50 small businesses offering farm, food, and artisan products. Free parking. More info
• Marshall House Tour — 10:00 AM–2:00 PM at the Marshall House, Vancouver. Free 30-minute tours of this historic home on Officers Row. Book a time online or walk in. More info
• Advanced Competitive Bridge Bidding — 10:00 AM at Vancouver Bridge Club, 6503 E. Mill Plain Blvd. A class for beginning and intermediate players with Ruby Life Master Michael Walker. $10–$50. More info
• The Craft of Writing: Workshop & Writers Group — 10:30 AM at Vancouver Community Library. Join this lively crew of creatives for writing prompts, craft discussion, and workshopping. Submit fiction and nonfiction for feedback. Free. More info
• Clark County Community Development Learning Lab — 11:00 AM–12:00 PM at Clark County Public Service Center, 6th floor. A new topic every month — from building permits to land use review. Free. More info
• Creature Teachers at FVRL — 11:00 AM. Meet cool reptiles and creepy crawlies and learn about the wild, weird, and wonderful world of animals. Free. More info
• Pairs and Spares Seniors at Golden Corral — 2:00 PM at Golden Corral, 11801 NE Fourth Plain Blvd., Vancouver. Info: 360-892-8944. More info
• Preschool Show & Tell at Camas Public Library — 2:00–3:00 PM. Ages 3–6 bring a toy, photo, or special item to share. Register at CamasPL.org/showtell or call 360-834-4692. Free. More info
• Woodland Planters Days — Opening Day — 3:00–10:30 PM at Horseshoe Lake Park, 700 Goerig St., Woodland. Fireworks at 10 PM. Full schedule at planters-days.com. Free. More info
• Teen Make Your Own Merch — 3:30–4:30 PM at Vancouver Mall Library. Design custom prints and buttons and learn how artists turn handmade items into a business. Free. More info
• Hike with Pacific Peaks Mountain Top Fitness — 3:30–4:30 PM at Lacamas Lake Lodge. An adaptive fitness and activity program for those with neurodevelopmental differences, featuring a group warm-up and walk along the Heritage Trail. Registration and fee required. More info
• Teen Hangout — 4:30–6:30 PM at Vancouver Community Library. Ages 13–19 can play games, craft, and hang out. Snacks provided by Friends of Vancouver Community Library. Free. More info
• Road Cycling 101 — 5:30 PM. Join the Vancouver Bicycling Club's Charla Burke for fun group rides exploring trails, neighborhoods, and parks. 5–10 miles at 10 mph on flat terrain. All levels welcome — bring a bike in good working order. More info
• Open Mic Night at Dovetail Cellars — 6:00–7:30 PM at Dovetail Cellars, 404 E. Evergreen Blvd., Vancouver. Hosted by Jeff Keddie and broadcast live on KXRW, Vancouver's local indie radio station. Sign-ups at 5:30 PM. Free. More info
• SpongeBob Trivia at Firehouse Axes — 6:30–9:00 PM at Firehouse Axes, Vancouver. Dust off your jellyfishing nets and put your Bikini Bottom knowledge to the test. Party size 1–8. Free. More info
• Circle of Light: The Love of Rumi & Shams — 7:00 PM at OMSI, Portland. An immersive 360-degree dome experience journeying through living Persian architecture and ancient realms of mystical symbolism, featuring the voice of renowned vocalist Shahram Nazeri. More info
• Switchfoot with Fuel and Lit — 8:00 PM at The Cowlitz Ballroom, Ridgefield. Three iconic rock bands on one stage — hear "Dare You to Move," "Hemorrhage (In My Hands)," "My Own Worst Enemy," and more. $50–$93. More info

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