📰 What's Making News

Columbia River Rolls Into State Quarterfinals With 4-0 Rout

The defending 2A state champions aren't done yet. Columbia River High's boys soccer team punched its ticket to the state quarterfinals with a convincing 4-0 first-round win on Wednesday — and they did it with fresh bleach-blonde playoff hair courtesy of a team bonding tradition. Senior midfielder Alex Point joked that his dye job "turned out a little more white than blonde," but the results on the pitch were exactly on target. The Chieftains will look to keep their title defense alive in the next round. Full story from The Columbian.

Fort Vancouver's Cristian Peralta Hernandez Named Trico League Player of the Year

A sophomore already leading the league — that's the story of Fort Vancouver's Cristian Peralta Hernandez, who earned 1A Trico League boys soccer Player of the Year honors. He wasn't the only Trapper recognized: senior Paulo Rolon Bueno took home Defensive Player of the Year. La Center's Ian Johnson claimed Offensive Player of the Year, and Columbia-White Salmon's Ricardo Cortez was named Goalkeeper of the Year. It's a proud showing for Clark County programs across the board. See the full all-league roster.

Mountain View's Rigby, King's Way's Harlow Force Playoffs at State Golf

Alyssa Rigby of Mountain View and Christian Harlow of King's Way Christian both clawed their way into sudden-death playoffs at the state golf tournament on Wednesday — no small feat given the ground each had to make up just to get there. Both ultimately fell short in the extra holes, but forcing a playoff on that stage is a statement performance for two young Clark County golfers worth keeping an eye on. Read the full highlights.

Skyview's Season Ends in 4A State Opener Against Lincoln-Seattle

Even a home-field draw couldn't conjure the magic Skyview needed Wednesday night. The Storm fell 3-0 to Lincoln of Seattle in the 4A boys soccer state first round, closing out their 2026 campaign. It's a tough exit for a squad that earned the right to host, but making the state tournament remains a point of pride for the Skyview program. Recap at The Columbian.

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💬 Community Buzz

The local conversation queue was a little quiet this week — we'll be back with more community discussions worth your time in the next issue.

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⚡ Quick Bites

Battle Ground Teacher Tapped for National Silent Heroes Project

Beth Doughty of Chief Umtuch Middle School is the only Washington state educator among 61 chosen for the Silent Heroes program, which connects classrooms with the stories of fallen U.S. service members through primary-source research. Read more

Ledges at Palisades: What's Going Up on That Hillside?

The massive Ledges at Palisades development on the Camas-Vancouver border continues to rise atop a prominent hillside, and The Columbian digs into what's planned for the site that keeps catching everyone's eye on the drive by. Read more

Clark County Wants Your Input on 6-Year Parks Plan

Clark County is accepting public comment on the draft 2026-32 Parks and Nature, and Lands Capital Improvement Plan — your chance to weigh in on trails, green spaces, and park upgrades before the plan is finalized. Read more

Seussical Opens May 29 at Battle Ground's Manor Church

Journey Theater brings six performances of Seussical to Manor Church in Battle Ground, running May 29 through June 6. The nonprofit youth theater production features local young performers bringing Horton, the Cat in the Hat, and Gertrude McFuzz to life. Read more

Memorial Day Drive? Here Are the Hours to Avoid

With the long weekend ahead, Washington transportation officials have mapped out the best and worst times to hit the road. If you're heading out of town, a little planning could save you serious windshield time. Read more

Trail Blazers Cut Staff Under New Owner's Restructuring

The Portland Trail Blazers have laid off employees as new owner Tom Dundon moves to cut costs across the organization — a shake-up worth watching for fans on this side of the river. Read more

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📅 Mark Your Calendar

Thursday, May 21

• Cook Hill Loop Hike with Mazamas – 7:00 AM. Join the Mazamas for a spectacular Gorge hike on Cook Hill, just east of Dog Mountain — expect solitude, abundant wildflower species, and old road beds through public land without the crowds. More info
• 78th St. Road Cleanup with Clark County Public Works – 9:30 AM at 4000 NE 78th Street, Vancouver. Grab your closed-toe shoes and join the volunteer crew for a litter cleanup along NE 78th Street. Tools, gloves, and snacks provided. More info
• Advanced Competitive Bridge Bidding – 10:00 AM at Vancouver Bridge Club. Michael Walker, a Ruby Life Master and accredited instructor, leads this class covering opening bids, slam bidding, takeout doubles, and more. $10–$50. More info
• Clark County Community Development Learning Lab – 11:00 AM at the Public Service Center, Vancouver. A new topic each month — from building permits to land use review — with expert staff and time for Q&A. Free. More info
• Pairs and Spares Seniors at Golden Corral – 2:00 PM at Golden Corral, 11801 NE Fourth Plain Blvd., Vancouver. A social gathering for seniors — come hungry and ready to mingle. More info
• Art Student Annual at Archer Gallery – 3:00 PM at Clark College's Archer Gallery, Vancouver. More than 100 works of photography, metal arts, computer imagery, and painting created by Clark College students. Free and on view through June 18. More info
• Kids & Tweens Build It – 3:30 PM at Vancouver Community Library. Ages 5–12 can spark their imagination with LEGO bricks, blocks, boxes, and other fun materials. Free. More info
• Level Upkes Launch and Ribbon Cutting – 4:00 PM at Greater Vancouver Chamber, 1111 Main Street, Vancouver. Celebrate the official launch of Level Upkes with a ribbon-cutting ceremony marking the next chapter in how they serve growing businesses. More info
• For Educators: Take Learning Outside — Schoolyard Stewardship – 4:30 PM at 2210 Olympia Way, Longview. Learn strategies for turning school gardens into hubs of learning, connection, and community stewardship. More info
• Winemakers Celebration with Humane Society for Southwest Washington – 6:00 PM at The Cove Restaurant, Vancouver. An elegant evening featuring plant-based and meat options paired with wines curated by Luke Bradford of COR Cellars. $150. More info
• "Our Mr. Matsura" Documentary Screening and Talk – 6:00 PM at Old Liberty Theater, Ridgefield. The Clark County Historical Museum presents the story of Frank Matsura, a Japanese-born photographer who chronicled life in early 1900s Okanogan County, followed by a discussion with Emmy Award–winning filmmaker Beth Harrington. $5. More info
• Open Mic Night at Dovetail Cellars – 6:00 PM at Dovetail Cellars, 404 E. Evergreen Blvd., Vancouver. Jeff Keddie hosts a supportive lineup of songwriters and small groups, broadcast live on KXRW. Sign-ups start at 5:30 PM. Free. More info
• "Hike the State 2026" — WTA's Online Summer Kick-Off – 6:00 PM online. Washington Trails Association staff share 10+ hike recommendations and tips to plan your summer hiking season. Free. More info
• The Circle: An Immersive 360° Experience – 7:00 PM at OMSI's Kendall Planetarium, Portland. A 45-minute cinematic odyssey blending psychedelic soundscapes and surrealist imagery inside the dome. Shows at 7:00, 8:15, and 9:30 PM. $31.50. More info

Friday, May 22

• 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 and healthy. More info
• Volunteer Clean-Up at Downs Neighborhood Park – 10:00 AM at 3217 NE 62nd Ave., Vancouver. Help pick up litter and pull invasive plants — gloves, tools, water, and snacks provided. Free. More info
• 60+ Senior Community Meal Program – 12:00 PM at Calvary Chapel Vancouver, 6503 E. Mill Plain Blvd. Free lunch for low-income seniors age 60+ served from noon to 1:00 PM, sponsored by the 5&2 Food Pantry. More info
• NAMI Art Group – 1:00 PM at NAMI Southwest Washington, 4201 NE 66th Ave., Suite 105, Vancouver. A weekly creative gathering hosted by the National Alliance on Mental Illness. Free. More info
• Preschool Dancing Caterpillars – 3:00 PM at Camas Public Library. Little ones use paper and straws to craft a dancing caterpillar — all materials provided. Free; register at CamasPL.org. More info
• Friday Night Cruise-in at Alderbrook Park – 4:00 PM at 24414 NE Westerholm Road, Brush Prairie. Cars, trucks, and motorcycles roll in every Friday through September 11 — plus disc golf, train rides, mini golf, bounce houses, and the pool. $5–$10. More info
• Tween & Teen Tabletop Role-Playing Game Adventure – 4:30 PM at Ridgefield Community Library. Ages 9–19 can create a character and dive into Pathfinder 1E with a team of fellow players. 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
• Pasifika & Asian American Community Science Night at OMSI – 6:00 PM at OMSI, Portland. Museum exploring, science demos, vendor tables, and cultural entertainment celebrating the local Pasifika and Asian American community. $8–$17. More info
• English Country Line Dancing – 6:30 PM at Fern Prairie Grange, Camas. All ages and experience levels welcome — they walk you through every dance. $5 per person or $10 per family. More info
• Metropolitan Performing Arts Presents: Footloose – 7:00 PM at Metropolitan Performing Arts, Vancouver. The beloved musical about a newcomer who shakes up a small town's ban on dancing. $30. More info
• Union Theatre Players Presents: Eurydice – 7:00 PM at Union High School, Camas. A modern reimagining of the classic myth through the eyes of its heroine, with contemporary characters and breathtaking visual effects. $8–$12. More info
• Enspire Arts Presents: Stories and Song – 7:00 PM at Fuel Medical, 314 NE Birch St., Camas. Singer/songwriter Owen Kortz and visual artist Jennifer Neal lead an evening of soulful music and journal decorating. Suggested donation $15. More info
• Milagro Presents: Brown Face – 7:30 PM at Milagro Theatre, Portland. A world premiere by Carissa Atallah — every performance opens with a 15-minute open-mic slam prologue. Ages 13+. $22–$30. More info
• Ekklesia Theatre Presents: Every Brilliant Thing – 7:30 PM. A funny, heartfelt story about finding hope through small moments and human connection, featuring audience participation. $15. More info

Saturday, May 23

• Vancouver Audubon Young Birders at WSU Vancouver – 7:30 AM at WSU Vancouver (meet at the Grey Lot). A guided two-mile walk on easy trails through the campus natural areas — binoculars provided if you need them. Free. More info
• Bird Walk at Ridgefield NWR with Backyard Bird Shop – 8:00 AM at Ridgefield National Wildlife Refuge. Join guide Elaine for a 2–3 hour birding walk — advance reservations required by calling 503-445-2699, press 5. More info
• Downtown Vancouver Farmers Market – 9:00 AM–3:00 PM at Esther Short Park, 8th & Esther St., Vancouver. Our flagship year-round market with the best local produce, artisan goods, and community vibes. More info
• Wildflowers & Watersheds Festival (Road Trip) – 9:00 AM at Columbia Gorge Discovery Center. Guided wildflower walks, a hands-on stream table, pollinator activities, yoga, and more. Free admission all day! More info
• Thrillium Mt. Bike Trail Maintenance Work Party – 9:00 AM at Larch Mountain trailhead, Yacolt Burn State Forest. Help the Southwest Chapter of Evergreen Mountain Bike Alliance maintain trail tread and improve water management. Bring water and lunch. More info
• Ridgefield Learn to Kayak Tour – 9:00 AM at Ridgefield Waterfront Park. Alder Creek Kayak & Canoe guides you through the Columbia River Water Trail near the Ridgefield National Wildlife Refuge. More info
• Cosmology, Ecology & Spirituality Retreat – 9:00 AM in Ridgefield. Portland poet Jeff Howard leads a unique day retreat exploring the intersection of science, ecology, and spirituality. More info
• Assisted Bridge: Lesson and Play – 9:15 AM at Vancouver Bridge Club. A free bridge lesson followed by play with assistance available. More info
• TITANIC: The Artifact Exhibition at OMSI – 9:30 AM at OMSI, Portland. Step back to April 1912 and explore more than 100 authentic artifacts recovered from the wreck site. More info
• Classic 7 MX Series Event – 10:00 AM at Washougal MX Park. Gates open at 6:00 AM with racing all day — spectator admission $20–$40. More info
• Open Saturday at Pearson Field Education Center – 10:00 AM–3:00 PM at Pearson Field, Vancouver. Flight simulators, a vertical wind table, historic airplanes, and hands-on STEAM learning for all ages. Free. More info
• Community Planting Day – 10:00 AM–2:00 PM at 78th Street Heritage Farm, Vancouver. Latinos Unidos y Floreciendo invites all ages to plant crops, care for beds, and help prepare for a productive growing season. Free. More info
• Black History Fashion Show – 10:00 AM at Generations Church, 14313 NE 20th Ave., Vancouver. Please Don't Die Black Men (PDDBM) presents a student fashion show, West African hair and cultural history exhibits, and a community celebration of creativity and Black excellence. $40–$80; free for Clark County students. More info
• NWCT Presents: Mad Hatter's Tea Party – 10:00 AM at The Judy, Portland. An interactive extravaganza filled with music, magic, and a touch of madness — tea and treats included. Ages 4+. Costumes encouraged! $20–$25. More info
• LeRoy Haagen Adopt-a-Park Volunteer Clean-Up – 10:00 AM at LeRoy Haagen Memorial Community Park, Vancouver. Help remove ivy and invasive plants and spread mulch — gloves, tools, water, and snacks provided. Free. More info
• KATvisions Doll Show – 10:00 AM–3:00 PM at American Legion Smith-Reynolds Post #14, Vancouver. Browse vendor tables of collectible dolls, toys, and bears, plus have items identified and evaluated. Free admission. More info
• Highway 14 Wildflower Project Volunteer Day – 10:00 AM near Camas/Washougal. Help the East County Citizens' Alliance maintain 8,000 square feet of native wildflowers at the "Gateway to the Gorge" by weeding, trimming, and beating back blackberries. More info
• Spring Geology Hike to Larch Mountain Crater – 10:00 AM. Friends of the Columbia Gorge guide Jayson Moorman leads a moderate 6-mile hike through old-growth forest ablaze with spring colors. Registration required. More info
• Art Exhibiting Workshop – 11:00 AM at Vancouver Arts Hub. Sharon Svec leads a free workshop on preparing artwork and artist statements for exhibition opportunities, including the Vancouver Arts and Music Festival. More info
• Bookmark Contest Celebration – 11:00 AM at Ridgefield Community Library. Celebrate the branch winners and see if one grabbed a district-wide top spot — plus first pick of fantastic new bookmarks. Refreshments by Ridgefield Friends of the Library. Free. More info
• NW Children's Theater Presents: Into the Woods – 11:00 AM at Northwest Children's Theater, Portland. NWCT's youth company performs the iconic Sondheim musical full of humor, heart, and fairy tale twists. $10–$15. More info
• Play Bridge (0–150 Points) – 11:00 AM at Vancouver Bridge Club. $10. More info
• Beginner Art Class with Pamela Gunn – 1:00 PM at Fort Vancouver Visitor Center. Learn fundamental drawing techniques and shade with graphite in this still-life focused class for ages 10+. $20. More info
• Live Music at Windy Hills Winery — Cellar Rats – 2:00 PM at Windy Hills Winery, Ridgefield. Celebrate the winery's 9th anniversary with live tunes under the tent — bring your dancing shoes! All ages, no cover. More info
• Columbia Dance Spring Showcase – 2:00 PM and 5:00 PM at Skyview Concert Hall, Vancouver. Columbia Dance students hit the stage in classical ballet, jazz, and modern pieces. $15–$20. More info
• Pairs and Spares Seniors at Waterfront Taphouse – 3:00 PM at Waterfront Taphouse, 801 Waterfront Way (2nd floor), Vancouver. Happy hour socializing for seniors. More info
• NWCT Presents: Camp Granada – 6:00 PM at The Judy, Portland. Kids Co. campers audition, rehearse, and create lovable chaos leading up to the big Camp Granada Talent Show. $10. More info
• Ridgefield Raptors Baseball – 6:30 PM at Ridgefield Outdoor Recreation Complex. Cheer on Clark County's hometown team as the 2026 season kicks off! More info
• Candlelight: 90s Unplugged – 6:30 PM at The Old Church Concert Hall, Portland. Your favorite '90s hits performed live under the gentle glow of candlelight. 60 minutes. $46.50–$71.50. More info
• VanCity's Saturday Social Dance and Beginners Lesson – 7:00 PM at VanCity Ballroom, 9212 NE Highway 99, Hazel Dell. A 45-minute lesson followed by social dancing of all styles until 10 PM — no partner needed. $10. More info
• The Music of John Williams — Oregon Symphony – 7:30 PM at Arlene Schnitzer Concert Hall, Portland. Hear fan-favorite scores from Jurassic Park, E.T., Harry Potter, and more performed live. $35–$145. More info

Sunday, May 24

• Ridgefield Bachelor Island Circumnavigation Kayak Tour – 9:00 AM. Paddle 10 miles around Bachelor Island with Alder Creek's Ridgefield team, winding through the Columbia River Water Trail with birds and wildlife all around. More info
• NW Trail Sisters' Women's Beginner Ride (Road Trip) – 10:00 AM at Gateway Green, Portland. A chill, guided ride around the trails — ride at your own pace and maybe find a new riding buddy. More info
• Garden Gnomes Workshop at Kilnfolk Clay Studio – 3:30 PM at 108 W. Sixth St., Vancouver. Ages 8+ create a ceramic gnome using the pinch pot method, complete with hats, flowers, and button noses. $65. More info

Monday, May 25

• Federal Public Lands Fee-Free Day — Memorial Day – 7:00 AM. No entrance fees at federal public lands across the country today — a perfect reason to explore the Gorge, Gifford Pinchot, or your favorite national site. More info
• Audiobook Walking Club – 9:30 AM with Camas Public Library. Bring your own audiobook and meet at a new outdoor location each month for a 60-minute walk plus optional social time. Free. More info
• Memorial Day Commemoration – 11:00 AM at American Legion Post 14, 4607 NE Saint James Road, Vancouver. Scouts from Troop #320 join American Legion family members for music, taps, a memorial program, and a wreath-laying to honor the fallen. Cookies, coffee, and punch provided. Free. More info

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