📰 What's Making News

Clark County's Hidden Barn Quilt Trail Deserves a Day Trip

Here's a weekend adventure you probably didn't know existed in your own backyard. A new guide from The Columbian maps out Clark County's growing collection of barn quilts — large, colorful quilt-pattern murals painted on barns and buildings across Battle Ground, Ridgefield, Brush Prairie, Orchards, and beyond. The movement traces back to 2001, when an Ohio woman named Donna Sue Groves painted a quilt block on her barn to honor her late mother, sparking a nationwide folk art tradition. Clark County's version has quietly grown into a self-guided trail worth exploring. Grab your camera and a full tank of gas — this one's a keeper. Read the full guide.

Vigor Unveils First-of-Its-Kind Army Landing Craft in Vancouver

Vancouver shipbuilder Vigor marked a major milestone Tuesday, unveiling its first nonprototype U.S. Army landing craft vessel. The reveal puts a spotlight on Clark County's shipbuilding chops and the kind of advanced manufacturing work happening right along the waterfront. Vigor has been a fixture in the local economy for years, and a contract like this reinforces Vancouver's role in the defense industry supply chain. It's the kind of story that reminds you this city builds things that matter. See the details.

12-Under Par: Vancouver's Christian Harlow Tops Junior Golf Field

King's Way Christian sophomore Christian Harlow just put Vancouver golf on notice. Harlow fired rounds of 65 and 63 — that's 12-under par over two days — to earn the top qualifying spot at the PNGA Junior Boys Amateur at Vandal Golf Course in Moscow, Idaho. The tournament now shifts to match play among the top 32 finishers, and Harlow enters as the one to beat. Keep an eye on this kid. Full story here.

Raptors' Season Ends in Division Championship Loss at Corvallis

The Ridgefield Raptors' 2026 season came to a close Tuesday night with a 7-2 loss to the Corvallis Knights in the West Coast League South Division championship game. It's a tough way to end what was still a strong run for the club, which earned its way into the title game in the first place. The Raptors gave Ridgefield plenty to cheer about this summer, even if the final result stings. Expect the team to come back hungry next season. Read the recap.

Swift Reservoir Boat Launch Closing Friday — Plan Accordingly

If you had late-summer plans for Swift Reservoir, adjust now. PacifiCorp announced it will close the Swift Forest Camp boat launch starting Aug. 15 for the remainder of the season, citing dry conditions and low water levels. It's not unusual for late-summer drawdowns to affect access, but the early closure means boaters and anglers need to pivot to other options sooner than expected. Details on the closure.

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⚡ Quick Bites

Clark County Fair Today: Senior Discounts, SxS Racing at the Grandstands

Wednesday is "Prime of Your Life Day" at the Clark County Fair, with reduced admission for seniors and two Addiction Powersports SxS racing shows on the schedule. The lineup also includes Tyzen The Comedy Hypnotist, a K-9 demonstration, and Mutton Bustin' for the little ones. Full daily schedule here.

Free Backpacks, Waterslides, Food at Clark County Back-to-School Bash

Multiple Clark County organizations are teaming up for a free back-to-school event with supplies, food, games, and waterslides to help families gear up before the first bell rings. Get the details on dates and locations.

Felida's Silknife Already Rebrands — Meet Lakeshore Kitchen + Cocktails

The incoming restaurant replacing Los Portrillos in Felida has changed its name from Silknife to Lakeshore Kitchen + Cocktails before even opening its doors. Early buzz on Reddit is already sizing up the happy-hour menu. Follow the conversation.

Restored and Revived Launches $100K Fundraiser After Sewage Disaster

Vancouver nonprofit Restored and Revived is asking the community for help after a sewage backup forced it to pause many of the recovery services thousands of Clark County residents depend on. The organization has set a $100,000 goal to get back on its feet. Learn how to contribute.

NE 28th Street Garage Fire Traced to Outdoor Trash Burning

A detached garage on NE 28th Street was destroyed Tuesday after a trash fire spread to the outbuilding; one resident was evaluated for smoke inhalation. Vancouver Fire is reminding residents that burn restrictions are in effect — check the Southwest Clean Air Agency guidelines before lighting up.

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📅 Mark Your Calendar

Wednesday, August 12

• Skywatch: Dawn Planet Alignment – 1:00 AM. The pre-dawn sky hosts a spectacular six-planet parade featuring Jupiter, Mercury, Mars, Uranus, Saturn, and Neptune stretched across the ecliptic. Mars and Saturn are easiest to spot with the naked eye; binoculars help with the rest. More info
• Rebecca Anstine Gallery presents Impressions of the Pacific Northwest – 8:00 AM at the Rebecca Anstine Sixth Floor Gallery, Vancouver. A free exhibit showcasing Pacific Northwest artists Oleg Ulitskiy and Elizabeth Ganji, celebrating the region's moody landscapes and vibrant spirit. Open Monday–Friday, 8 AM–5 PM through September. More info
• Enhance Fitness Classes – 8:30 AM at Bethel Lutheran Church, Brush Prairie. An evidence-based group exercise program helping older adults (age 60+) stay active. Sessions at 8:30–9:30 AM and 10–11 AM on Wednesdays and Fridays. More info
• Reclaimed Creations Exhibit at OMSI – 9:30 AM at OMSI, Portland. Artist Sayaka Ganz transforms thousands of discarded plastic objects into soaring animals and fluid sculptures. On view through September 30. More info
• Clark County Fair – 10:00 AM at Clark County Fairgrounds, Ridgefield. "Blast Off to Fun" with rides, entertainment, food, and hands-on space adventures. Carnival opens at noon. $8.50–$11.50 admission. More info
• Chippers Preschool Rides at Oaks Park – 10:00 AM–12:00 PM at Oaks Park, Portland. Little ones ages 6 and under enjoy kiddie rides and select family rides, plus snack and story time with Chipper the Squirrel. $13.50 per child; one adult rides free. Purchase online to guarantee your spot. More info
• Contemplative Prayer – 12:20 PM at St. Paul Lutheran Church, Vancouver. Quiet prayer with music, 12:20–12:45 PM. Free. More info
• Gravity Catastrophe: A Science Show – 2:00 PM at Cascade Park Community Library. An educational journey through centripetal force, gravity, vortexes, and more. Free. More info
• Camas Farmers Market – 3:00–7:00 PM in Downtown Camas (temporary location on Birch Street between 3rd and 4th Avenues). Fresh produce, artisan goods, and community vibes every Wednesday. 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
• Teen Magic the Gathering Social Club – 4:00–6:00 PM at Vancouver Community Library. For ages 13–19. Decks provided or bring your own. Free. More info
• Kids & Tweens Create: Origami – 4:00–5:00 PM at Washougal Community Library. Drop in and fold a selected monthly origami pattern. For ages 5–12. Free. More info
• Community Dragon Boat Paddle – 5:30 PM at Ridgefield Public Boat Launch. Try dragon boat paddling for free — no experience needed, equipment provided. Ages 14+. More info
• Leathercrafting Workshop with Dragon Half Art – 5:30 PM at The Arts Centered, Vancouver. A hands-on leathercraft session for beginners and seasoned crafters alike. $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
• End of Summer Concert on the Lawn – 6:00–7:00 PM at La Center Community Library. Bring a picnic dinner and blanket for live music from the Sunny South Bluegrass Band. Free. More info
• Disabled American Veterans Monthly Meeting – 6:30 PM at American Legion 40 et 8, Vancouver. DAV Chapter 4 holds its monthly meeting, 6:30–8:00 PM. Free. More info
• "Noticing": A Conversation with Richard Louv and Sally Jewell – 6:30 PM, livestream on the Children & Nature Network YouTube channel. Bestselling author Richard Louv and former REI CEO Sally Jewell discuss Louv's newest book about cultivating deeper encounters with the natural world. More info
• Harry Potter and the Cursed Child – 7:30 PM at Keller Auditorium, Portland. Broadway's Tony Award-winning spectacular brings the next chapter of the wizarding world to the stage. More info

Thursday, August 13

• WTA Ridgefield National Wildlife Refuge – Half-Day Work Party – 9:00 AM. Join the Washington Trails Association to brush back overgrown vegetation along trails at the 5,000-acre refuge. No experience necessary. More info
• East Vancouver Farmers Market – 10:00 AM–2:00 PM at Columbia Tech Center, Vancouver. Over 50 small businesses offering farm, food, and artisan products every Thursday through September. More info
• Marshall House Tour – 10:00 AM at Marshall House, Vancouver. Free 30-minute tours of this historic gem, offered Wednesday–Friday, 10 AM–2 PM. More info
• Advanced Competitive Bridge Bidding – 10:00 AM at Vancouver Bridge Club. A class for beginning and intermediate players covering opening bidding, slam bidding, takeout doubles, and more. $10–$50. More info
• Vancouver Bridge Club Introductory Bridge Class – 10:00 AM at Vancouver Bridge Club. A six-week introductory class perfect for newcomers. $10–$50. More info
• Bee Amazed at Camas Public Library – 3:00 PM at Camas Public Library. Discover the wonderful world of Oregon's 500+ bee species with hands-on science fun. For school-age children; registration required. Free. More info
• Ribbon Cutting: Okojie Wellness New Location – 4:00 PM at 2100 SE 164th Avenue, Suite F101, Vancouver. Tour the new clinic, meet the team, and celebrate the growth of this personalized wellness practice. More info
• Ribbon Cutting: Trans360 New Facility – 4:00 PM at 611 SE Kaiser Ave, Bldg 60, Vancouver. Celebrate a new chapter for this 40-year driver training and transportation safety education company. More info
• Teen Hangout – 4:30–6:30 PM at Vancouver Community Library. Games, crafts, snacks, and good hangs for ages 13–19. Free. More info
• Tween & Teen Tabletop Role-Playing Game Adventure – 4:30–6:30 PM at Cascade Park Community Library. Create a character and play Dungeons & Dragons for ages 9–19. Free. More info
• Summer Nights Sips & Bites – 5:00–9:00 PM in Downtown Camas. A tropical-themed evening of hand-crafted cocktails, small bites, live music, and after-hours shopping. $25 ticket includes a passport to 15+ sip-and-bite locations. Ages 21+. More info
• Bingo Nights Supporting dogpaw – 6:00–8:00 PM at Latte Da Coffee House and Wine Bar, Vancouver. Play 10 games for $20 and support your local off-leash dog parks. Bring your pup — seating is under the covered patio. More info
• Vancouver Sons and Daughters of Italy Meeting – 6:00 PM at Family of Christ Lutheran Church, Vancouver. Meeting includes dinner. Free. More info
• An Evening with Hiroya Tsukamoto – 6:30–7:30 PM at Three Creeks Community Library. World-renowned Japanese-born guitarist and composer Hiroya Tsukamoto blends masterful technique with heartfelt storytelling. Free. More info
• Recycling 201: Beyond Curbside – 6:30–8:00 PM at City Marine Park Engineering, Vancouver. Discover local recycling and reuse options for plastic bags, appliances, bulky items, and household hazardous waste. Registration required. Free. More info
• Southwest Washington Woodturners Monthly Meeting – 7:00 PM at Friends of the Carpenter, Vancouver. Open to experienced and novice woodturners. Free. More info
• Ghost Town Poetry Open Mic featuring Eric Fair-Layman – 7:00 PM at Art at the Cave Gallery, Vancouver. Poet and performer Eric Fair-Layman (aka Papasquatch) headlines, and attendees can read their own poetry. $5 suggested donation. More info

Friday, August 14

• Bird Outing with Vancouver Audubon Society – 7:00 AM at Vancouver Lake. Sweeping views, cottonwood stands, and open fields make this a wonderful spot to watch birds winding down nesting season and gearing up for fall migration. All skill levels welcome. Free; Discover Pass required for parking. More info
• Road Trip: PCT Trail Days at Cascade Locks – 7:00 AM at Marine Park, Cascade Locks, OR. The 19th annual Pacific Crest Trail Days features 100+ exhibiting sponsors at the Gear Expo & Marketplace, plus activities, presentations, and gear raffles. Aug. 14–15. More info
• Cascade Park Kiwanis Fundraising Rummage Sale – 9:00 AM–7:00 PM at Fourth Plain Church of the Nazarene, Vancouver. Tools, kids' clothing, bikes, toys, sports equipment, and DVDs. Proceeds support children's programs. Also open Aug. 15, 8 AM–4 PM. More info
• Volunteer Gleaning: SWWA Victory Garden – 9:00 AM at 2311 NE 68th Street, Vancouver. Lend a hand at this community garden — produce is donated to neighbors across Clark County. 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
• Summer Craft & Play with Drip Drop Art Studio – 10:00 AM at Drip Drop Art Studio, Vancouver. A Maker Station for kids 5+ filled with recyclables, pom poms, wood items, and more for open-ended creative fun. $18. More info
• Drip Drop Art Craft & Play – 10:00 AM at Drip Drop Art Studio, Vancouver. Sensory bins and art projects for ages 1–5 with a Maker Station add-on for older siblings. $24. More info
• Plas Newydd Farm Excursion & Canopy Time – 10:00 AM in Ridgefield. Explore beautiful farm trails, observe migratory birds, and feel the rhythms of the land with hosts Abby Braithwaite and David Morgan. More info
• Unicorn Storytime at Cascade Park Community Library – 11:00 AM–12:00 PM. Come for the story and stay for the special unicorn appearance from Mystical and Pearl. Free. More info
• 60+ Senior Community Meal Program – 12:00–1:00 PM at Calvary Chapel Vancouver. Free lunch for low-income seniors age 60+, sponsored by the 5&2 Food Pantry. More info
• Long-Term Care Planning Seminar – 12:00 PM. Pettis Webber Pacific p.s. elder care law firm hosts a free seminar on incapacity and long-term care planning, presented by attorney Karen Webber. Registration required: 360-696-2069. More info
• NAMI Art Group – 1:00–3:00 PM at NAMI Southwest Washington, Vancouver. A creative space hosted every Friday. Free. More info
• HOPE Dementia Support: Meet Me at the Movies – 1:00 PM at Kiggins Theatre, Vancouver. A musical on the big screen on the second Friday of every month. $10 per person. More info
• Kids Hero Quest for Young Adventurers – 1:30–2:30 PM. Kids ages 5–9 and their caregivers team up to battle monsters, avoid traps, and discover treasure in this beginner-friendly tabletop adventure. Free. More info
• Chor Anno presents Voices in the Vineyard – 3:00–5:00 PM at Columbia Ridge Winery, Ridgefield. Sip wine, enjoy food, and listen to live choral and solo performances. Wine tasting and a presentation by wine expert Steve Meharg included. $75–$95. More info
• Kids Create – 3:30–4:30 PM at Washougal Community Library. Drop-in creative projects for ages 5–9. Free. More info
• Tween Hangout at Vancouver Community Library – 4:00–5:30 PM. Games, crafts, and fun for ages 9–12. Snacks provided. Free. More info
• Alderbrook Park Cruise-In – 4:00–8:00 PM at Alderbrook Park, Brush Prairie. Classic cars plus disc golf, train rides, mini golf, bounce houses, pool, and more — all included with admission. $5–$10. More info
• Into the Crater Hike with Mt. St. Helens Institute – 5:00 PM. A bucket-list adventure into the crater of an active volcano with expert geologists and mountain guides. More info
• ZooNights – 5:00 PM at Oregon Zoo, Portland. Live music, food carts, keeper chats, animal encounters, and the zoo's famous elephant ears. Beer and wine available for adults. $13–$26. More info
• Project Huddle Knit/Crochet Circle – 5:30–8:00 PM at Dandelion Teahouse and Apothecary, Vancouver. Bring your knitting or crochet projects — or unfinished ones and scraps for others to use. Free. More info
• Ridgefield Dragon Boat Paddles – 5:30 PM in Ridgefield. Free community paddling — no experience needed, equipment provided. Ages 14+. More info
• Hollie Olson at English Estate Winery – 6:00 PM at English Estate Winery, Vancouver. Pianist and vocalist Hollie Olson performs jazz, blues, R&B, and originals. No cover charge; small plates from Venue 1903 food truck. More info
• Sip and Paint Pottery with Valo Cellars – 6:00–8:00 PM at Valo Cellars on the Vancouver waterfront. Kilnfolk Clay Studio leads a paint-your-own pottery session. $20 includes one glass of wine; pottery pieces $15–$45. More info
• Free Friday Night Movies in the Park: Super Mario Galaxy – 6:30 PM at Fruit Valley Park, Vancouver. Pre-movie activities, food vendors, and a free captioned showing at dusk. Bring a blanket or lawn chair. More info
• Jesus and Friends: Acoustic Christian Music – 6:30–8:00 PM at St. Paul Lutheran Church, Vancouver. Modern Christian music performed on acoustic instruments. Free; donations encouraged. More info
• Live Music on the Patio at Farrar's Bistro – 7:00 PM at Farrar's Bistro, Vancouver. Enjoy food, cocktails, local wine, and live performances on the pet-friendly patio. First come, first served seating. More info
• Pour Choices Summer Concert Series: Allie Childers – 7:30 PM at Pour Choices Pub, 1919 Main Street, Vancouver. Laid-back acoustic vibes and feel-good summer music. No cover. More info
• ZZ Top at ilani – 8:00 PM at ilani's Cowlitz Ballroom, Ridgefield. Rock legends Billy Gibbons, Dusty Hill, and Frank Beard bring a half-century of rock, blues, and boogie to the stage. $99.90–$355.90. More info

Saturday, August 15

• Mt. St. Helens Summit Climb with MSHI Geologist – 6:00 AM. A single-day non-technical scramble to the summit with professional mountain guides and geologists. Designed for novice hikers and experienced mountaineers alike. More info
• Clark County Parks Fee-Free Day: National Relaxation Day – 7:00 AM. Free access to Clark County regional parks all day. Bird watch, paddleboard, skateboard the trails, or have a family BBQ picnic. More info
• Cameraderie Bird-a-thon – 8:00 AM at Steigerwald Lake National Wildlife Refuge. Split into teams and compete to spot the most bird species, followed by a species count and awards ceremony. All ages and experience levels welcome. More info
• Windhaven Ride for Veterans – 8:30 AM starting at Yacolt Community Church, Yacolt. Hot rods, classic cars, and motorcycles cruise northeast Clark County, returning for music, food, and a vendor market. $25 per vehicle; proceeds support veterans. More info
• Downtown Vancouver Farmers Market – 9:00 AM–3:00 PM at Esther Short Park, Vancouver. The flagship market featuring local farms, food, and artisan vendors every Saturday. More info
• Wander Clark County: HerStory Walking Tour (Early) – 9:00 AM at Clark County Historical Museum, Vancouver. A walking tour celebrating the remarkable women who shaped Vancouver and Clark County — from Esther Short to Mother Joseph. $10. More info
• Salmon Creek Trail Parkrun – 9:00 AM at Salmon Creek Trail, Vancouver. A free, fun weekly 5K — walk, jog, or run. All ages and abilities welcome; dogs too. Register online for your barcode. More info
• Columbia Springs Stewardship Saturday – 9:00 AM–12:00 PM at Columbia Springs, Vancouver. Help remove invasive species, maintain trails, and improve site accessibility. Tools, gloves, and guidance provided. More info
• Whipple Creek Regional Park Trail Maintenance – 9:00 AM. Join the Whipple Creek Restoration Committee for brush cutting and trail graveling. Meet at the main North Parking area off NE 179th Street. More info
• Frenchman's Bar Beach Cleanup – 9:00 AM at Frenchman's Bar Regional Park. Help Clark County Public Works clean up the beach — all tools supplied. Wear closed-toe shoes. More info
• Curiosity Kids: Design and Discover at OMSI – 9:00 AM at OMSI, Portland. Kids ages 3–5 and their families explore early science and engineering through playful hands-on challenges. More info
• Wander Clark County Walking Tours – 9:00 AM and 11:00 AM, locations vary. The Clark County Historical Museum's guides lead groups through fascinating historic neighborhoods. $12.51. More info
• Assisted Bridge: Lesson and Play – 9:15 AM at Vancouver Bridge Club. Free bridge lesson followed by play with assistance available. More info
• Beaks, Feet and Feathers – 9:30 AM at the Water Resources Education Center, Vancouver. Families with kids ages 6–10 learn how beaks, feet, and feathers help birds thrive, then hit the trail for bird spotting. Registration required. Free. More info
• Kids Crochet at Hook & Needle – 10:00 AM at Hook and Needle Fiber, downtown Vancouver. A one-hour beginner crochet class for ages 10+ taught by Becka of Radiant Beans. Adult must be on-site. $45. More info
• Open Saturday at Pearson Field Education Center – 10:00 AM–3:00 PM at Pearson Field Education Center, Vancouver. Flight simulators, a vertical wind table, and historic airplanes on display. Free for all ages. More info
• Reptile Man: The Fascinating World of Reptiles – 10:00 AM at various FVRL Library locations. The Oregon Reptile Man brings live reptiles, big laughs, and up-close encounters. Free. More info
• Safe Routes to School Summer Fair – 10:00 AM. Plan your walk, roll, or bike route to school, participate in a Bike Rodeo, learn to ride, and play bus bingo with C-TRAN. Bring a bike, trike, or kick-scooter. Free. More info
• Sunflower Festival at O'Keefe Farms – 10:00 AM in Brush Prairie. Stroll through acres of vibrant sunflower fields, enjoy live music, local vendors, delicious food, and take home fresh-cut blooms. More info
• Open House: East Vancouver Community Park Planning – 10:00 AM. Help design Vancouver's new 14-acre community park near 192nd Ave. and 20th St. All ages welcome; light refreshments provided. More info
• Goat Adventure at Your Library – 10:00 AM. Meet some new goat friends in this mobile petting zoo at your local library. Free. More info
• Road Trip: Waterfront Walk on the East Esplanade with Outdoor Afro – 10:00 AM in Portland. Walk along the Eastside Esplanade with views of Portland's downtown from the opposite river bank. Free BIPOC event; register via the Outdoor Afro app. More info
• Wander Clark County: HerStory Walking Tour (Late) – 11:00 AM at Clark County Historical Museum, Vancouver. Same incredible tour celebrating the women who built our community. $10. More info
• Water Resources Education Center: Amazing Aquifers – 1:00–2:00 PM at the Water Resources Education Center, Vancouver. Drop-in program for all ages — explore the exhibit hall and shaded outdoor garden spaces. Free. More info
• Saturday Karaoke Night at Pour Choices Pub – 8:30 PM at Pour Choices Pub, 1919 Main Street, Vancouver. Let your inner entertainer shine — come solo or with friends. More info

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