📰 What's Making News

September Is Prime Time for Spring Bulbs — Here's How to Plan

If your spring garden feels a little underwhelming, now's the moment to fix that. The Columbian's longtime gardening columnist Allen offers a timely guide to integrating fall-planted bulbs into your landscape design for maximum early-spring color. Rather than scattering bulbs randomly, Allen walks through strategies for weaving tulips, daffodils, and crocuses into your existing beds so they look intentional, not like afterthoughts. With our Clark County soil finally cooling down, this is the window to get your order in and your plan sketched out before October planting time arrives.

Washougal Falls 22-14 as Rochester's Rodgers Dominates on the Ground

Washougal's football squad ran into a freight train named Maddox Rodgers on Friday night. The Rochester running back racked up 194 rushing yards and three touchdowns to power a 22-14 non-league win over the Panthers. Washougal's Deacon Nichols provided a bright spot with a 30-yard touchdown grab from quarterback Matteo DiGiacomo to knot things at 6-6 in the first quarter, but Rodgers' second scoring run put Rochester ahead for good. The Panthers will look to regroup as league play approaches.

Clark County K-12 Vaccination Rates Tick Up, Still Trail Statewide Mark

Vaccination rates among Clark County's K-12 students edged higher last school year, a step in the right direction after years of lagging behind. Still, the county remains below the state average, according to new data from Clark County Public Health. The numbers span districts including Vancouver Public Schools and Battle Ground Public Schools. With a new school year underway, families who need to update their children's immunization records can check with their pediatrician or local pharmacy for back-to-school appointments.

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⚡ Quick Bites

First Snow Dusts Mount St. Helens, Season's Turning Point

Webcam footage Thursday caught the first snow of the season blanketing the high country around Mount St. Helens — a not-so-subtle reminder that summer's curtain call is underway. Time to savor those last warm weekends. Read more

Camas Debuts New Doc Harris Stadium Field to Rave Reviews

Friday night's season opener drew a packed crowd to Camas for the first game on Doc Harris Stadium's brand-new turf. Chiawana spoiled the party with a 28-7 win, but fans and players praised the upgraded field and the return of beloved Kong game-day traditions. Read more

Kenroy Brown's Late TD Run Lifts Skyview Past Glacier Peak, 31-25

Skyview's Kenroy Brown punched in a 6-yard touchdown with just 2:05 on the clock Friday to seal a 31-25 road win over Glacier Peak in Snohomish. A gutsy finish to start the Storm's season. Read more

Chase Moore Hauls in Three TDs for Union Despite Loss

Union receiver Chase Moore put on a show Friday with three touchdown catches in a 58-28 non-league loss at Hermiston. The Titans couldn't contain Hermiston QB Braden Medelez, who accounted for seven total touchdowns. Read more

Girls in Aviation Day Coming to Vancouver — Open to All Kids

Mark your calendar: Girls in Aviation Day 2026 is a free event welcoming all kids, not just girls, for a hands-on look at aviation careers. Details are still emerging, so check the listing for updates on dates and location. Read more

Clark County Sidewalk Gaps Leave Residents Navigating Barriers

A new Columbian deep dive profiles residents like Lilly Longshore, for whom a cracked or missing sidewalk isn't a minor annoyance — it's a real obstacle. The piece examines where Clark County's pedestrian infrastructure falls short and what's being done about it. Read more

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📅 Mark Your Calendar

Sunday, September 6

• Downtown Vancouver Market — 10:00 AM at 8th & Esther St., Vancouver. The flagship farmers market returns for its Sunday hours, running through October. Browse local vendors next to beautiful Esther Short Park. More info
• Native Habitat Garden Tour in Felida — 10:00 AM–3:00 PM at 10918 NW 27th Ct., Vancouver. Steve, a Vancouver Bee Project volunteer, has planted more than 500 native plants in his yard over the past year. Come see late-summer biodiversity and seasonal blooms up close. More info
• The Portland Maize & Pumpkin Patch — 10:00 AM–5:00 PM on Sauvie Island, Portland. Almost two miles of pathways through the corn, plus the pumpkin patch. Allow at least 45 minutes to solve the maze. More info
• Kids Throw Free at Firehouse Axes — 11:00 AM at Firehouse Axes, Vancouver. Up to two kids ages 10–17 throw for free with each paying adult. Reservations recommended — bring closed-toe shoes or rent their Crocs. More info
• Bi-Zi Farms Sunflower Festival — 12:00–8:00 PM at Bi-Zi Farms, Vancouver. Every paid entry ($12) includes one cut sunflower, a free hayride, photo ops, and visits with adorable farm animals. Additional flowers available at the exit gate. More info
• Autumn Pumpkins Workshop at Kilnfolk Clay Studio — 3:30–5:00 PM at 108 W. Sixth St., Vancouver. Craft ceramic pumpkins using the pinch pot method — no experience necessary. Family-friendly for ages 5 and up. $55 per person. More info
• Richie Jen: Miracle Concert 2026 — 8:00 PM at The Cowlitz Ballroom, Ridgefield. The beloved Mandopop star brings his "Miracle" tour to Clark County. More info

Monday, September 7

• Clark County Parks & Nature — Fee Free Day: Labor Day — Starting at 7:00 AM. Enjoy free access to Clark County regional parks all day. A perfect time to reserve a picnic shelter and gather friends and family. More info
• 40 et 8 Labor Day Car Show: Custom, Classy and Classic — 10:00 AM–3:00 PM at 2809 NE 78th St., Vancouver. Vehicles of all makes and models, music, raffles, vendors, food, drinks, prizes, and trophies. Free for spectators; $20 vehicle registration at the gate. More info
• SWWDSC Our Community Walk Abouts — 10:00 AM at Stewart Glen Trailhead off Fruit Valley Road. The SW Washington Down Syndrome Community invites families, self-advocates, caregivers, siblings, and supporters for a relaxed, family-friendly walk. More info
• Clark County Genealogical Society Research Book Club — 12:00–1:30 PM, online. September's book is The Family Tree Problem Solver by Marsha Hoffman Rising. Members and non-members welcome. More info
• Bigfoot Adventure on the Portland Spirit — 2:00 PM from Caruthers Landing Dock, Portland. An 80-mile roundtrip jetboat tour to Multnomah Falls with exclusive Bigfoot narration by Cliff Barackman of "Finding Bigfoot." $64–$72. 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 to create nebula-like patterns. No experience needed; all supplies provided. $35. More info

Tuesday, September 8

• Enhance Fitness Classes — 8:30 AM at various locations around Clark County. Free evidence-based exercise classes for adults 60 and older, tailored from seated to full mobility. No pre-registration required. More info
• Playgroup at Firstenburg Community Center — 10:00 AM at Firstenburg Community Center, Vancouver. A safe indoor space for kids ages 9 months–6 years to run, climb, and explore while parents meet and socialize. $7–$9. More info
• Take Your Genealogy Search Beyond with Free Research Guides — 10:00–11:30 AM at Clark County Genealogical Society, 3205 NE 52nd St., Vancouver. Discover resources beyond Ancestry and MyHeritage. $20. More info
• Camas Public Library Food Drive — All month long at Camas Public Library. Donations benefit Camas School District's Family-Community Resource Center. Special need for lunchbox snacks, canned fruit, and pantry staples. More info
• I Got You Poo Ribbon Cutting — 10:00 AM at Esther Short Park's Salmon Run Bell Tower. Meet the team behind this veteran-owned Vancouver pet waste removal business at their official ribbon cutting. More info
• Tween & Teen Tabletop Role-Playing Game — 4:30 PM at various FVRL library locations. Ages 9–19 can create a character and play Dungeons & Dragons — experienced players and newcomers welcome. Free. More info
• Shut Up and Write! Writers Group — 5:15–6:45 PM at Vancouver Arts Hub, 1007 E. Mill Plain Blvd., Vancouver. A weekly gathering for writers of all levels with dedicated writing time — no readings or critiques. Free. More info
• Spanish Conversation Group — 5:30–6:30 PM at Camas Public Library. Geared toward beginning adult Spanish speakers. No registration required. Free. More info

Wednesday, September 9

• Build Garden Boxes for the Community Pollinator Garden — 9:00–11:30 AM at Curtin Springs Wildlife Habitat. Help build garden boxes for the community pollinator garden. Open to volunteers aged 13+. Wear closed-toe shoes and dress for the weather. More info
• Reclaimed Creations Exhibit at OMSI — 9:30 AM at OMSI, Portland. Artist Sayaka Ganz transforms discarded plastic objects into soaring animals and rushing waves. On view through September 30. More info
• Providence Academy Tours — 10:00 AM–2:00 PM at Providence Academy, Vancouver. Tour the stunning 1873 building constructed by Mother Joseph of the Sacred Heart. Free, by reservation. More info
• Wearable Art: Artists Talk and Runway Show — 1:00–2:00 PM at Art at the Cave Gallery, 108 E. Evergreen Blvd., Vancouver. Sixty hand-crafted garments by 25 local artists plus work from eight jewelers. Free. More info
• Serving Up Civic Engagement: Boards and Commissions Open House — 2:30 PM at Cascade Park Community Library, Vancouver. Chat with current City commissioners over sandwiches and learn about volunteer board opportunities. More info
• Camas Farmers Market — 3:00–7:00 PM in Downtown Camas (temporary location on Birch Street between 3rd and 4th Avenues). Local farm, food, and artisan vendors every Wednesday. More info
• Teen & Adult Magic the Gathering Social Club — 4:00–6:00 PM at Cascade Park & Vancouver Community Libraries. Open game play — decks provided or bring your own. Free. More info
• Kids & Tweens Create: Origami — 4:00 PM. Drop in for creative origami projects 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 session for beginners and experienced 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
• Disabled American Veterans Monthly Meeting — 6:30–8:00 PM at 40 et 8, 2809 NE 78th St., Vancouver. Free. More info
• Moving a Loved One into Memory Care — 6:30–7:30 PM at Camas Public Library. Tami Calais guides attendees through helpful questions to determine if it's the right time to transition. Free; register at camaspl.org. More info

Thursday, September 10

• East Vancouver Farmers Market — 10:00 AM–2:00 PM at Columbia Tech Center, 17701 SE Mill Plain Blvd., Vancouver. Over 50 small businesses with farm, food, and artisan products. Free parking. More info
• Marshall House Tours — 10:00 AM at Marshall House, Vancouver. Tour this stunning Queen Anne home where General George C. Marshall lived from 1936–1938, featuring stained glass, decorative woodwork, and military memorabilia. Free. More info
• GRO Parade of Homes — 10:00 AM–7:00 PM in the Emerald Grove community of Salmon Creek. Eight custom homes featuring contemporary architecture, smart home tech, and energy-efficient innovation. $20 admission. More info
• Advanced Competitive Bridge Bidding — 10:00 AM at Vancouver Bridge Club, 6503 E. Mill Plain Blvd., Vancouver. A class for beginning and intermediate players instructed by Ruby Life Master Michael Walker. $10–$50. More info
• Soil Health & Cover Crops Workshop — 11:00 AM with the Clark County Conservation District. See a rainfall simulator demo and take home fall cover crop seed to try on your own property. Free. More info
• Menchie's Hazel Dell Fundraiser for Naydenov XCEL Booster Club — 3:00 PM. Grab frozen yogurt at Menchie's in Hazel Dell and support local gymnasts' competition expenses. More info
• Preschool Shape Detective — 3:30–4:30 PM at Camas Public Library. Preschoolers ages 3–5 use shape finders as magnifying glasses to explore the library. Free; register at CamasPL.org. More info
• Grand Opening: Exit 16 Sips & Scoops — 4:00 PM at 305 NW Pacific Highway, La Center. Celebrate this new hometown spot for food, craft beverages, and handcrafted ice cream — including alcohol-infused flavors for adults. More info
• Teen Hangout at Vancouver Community Library — 4:30–6:30 PM. Games, crafts, chatting, and snacks for ages 13–19. Free. More info
• "Take Learning Outside" Kick-Off Event for Educators — 4:30 PM at 28908 NW Main Ave., Ridgefield. Free event for educators to earn STEM clock hours while connecting with outdoor teaching partners. More info
• Composting: Find the System That Works for You — 4:30 PM. A free workshop from the Clark County Composter Recycler program covering indoor and outdoor composting options. More info
• Scarecrow Making Workshop at Pomeroy Farm — 5:30–7:30 PM at 20902 NE Lucia Falls Rd., Yacolt. Learn the art of scarecrow making with longtime "Pumpkin Lane" expert Martha Todd and take your creation home. $35. More info
• Backpacking 101: Adventure by Bicycle — 6:00 PM on Main St., Vancouver. A free workshop from Wild Camp Goods with local cyclist Jasmine "Tater Tot" Baker on bikepacking basics. More info
• Vancouver Sons and Daughters of Italy Meeting — 6:00 PM at Family of Christ Lutheran Church, 3500 NW 129th St., Vancouver. Dinner included. Free. More info
• Southwest Washington Woodturners Monthly Meeting — 7:00–9:00 PM at Friends of the Carpenter, 1600 W. 20th St., Vancouver. Open to experienced and novice woodturners. Free. More info
• Ghost Town Poetry Open Mic Featuring Adrienne Awen — 7:00 PM at Art at the Cave, 108 E. Evergreen Blvd., Vancouver. Awen weaves harp melodies, vocals, and effects into her music. $5 suggested donation. More info

Friday, September 11

• Patriot Day Ceremony — 9:00 AM at Downtown Vancouver Waterfront Park. A solemn community tribute honoring the memory of September 11, 2001. Free. More info
• Adult & Teen Craft & Chat at La Center Community Library — 10:00 AM–12:00 PM. Bring your knitting, crochet, cross-stitch, or any fiber arts project and make connections. Ages 13+. Free. More info
• GRO Parade of Homes — 10:00 AM–7:00 PM in Salmon Creek. Eight custom homes showcasing high-end, innovative design. $20 admission. More info
• Book Swap at Kindred Vancouver — 10:00 AM–4:00 PM at 2213 Main St., Vancouver. Bring clean, gently used books and take home as many new-to-you reads as you like — no trade required. Free. More info
• Canopy Time at Plas Newydd Farm — 10:00 AM in Ridgefield. A nature walk exploring seasonal rhythms, migratory birds, and native plants. Part nature journaling, part phenological recording. More info
• Fall Watercolor Workshops — 10:30 AM–12:30 PM at Vancouver Arts Hub, 1007 E. Mill Plain Blvd. Kathryn Garcia-Stackpole teaches florals, apples, and pumpkins. Beginners welcome. $125 includes all materials. More info
• 60+ Senior Community Meal Program — 12:00–1:00 PM at Calvary Chapel Vancouver, 6503 E. Mill Plain Blvd. Free lunch for low-income seniors age 60+. More info
• Home School Rides at Oaks Park — 12:00 PM at Oaks Amusement Park, Portland. Unlimited ride bracelets for the annual home school event. $21.50. More info
• Blood Drive at Magenta Theater — 12:00–5:00 PM at 1108 Main St., Vancouver. Donors receive a $5 discount on tickets for Dracula: A Comedy of Terrors plus a free Hello Kitty item. Sign up at redcrossblood.org. More info
• Rose City Comic Con — 1:00 PM at Oregon Convention Center, Portland. A fun, family-friendly three-day celebration of comics, pop culture, cosplay, and more. More info
• Base Camp at Mount St. Helens — 3:00 PM at the Science and Learning Center above Coldwater Lake. Camp on the north side of the volcano, enjoy guided hikes, dinner, and views of the blast zone. $275. More info
• Alderbrook Park Cruise-In — 4:00–8:00 PM at Alderbrook Park, Brush Prairie. Cruise-in plus disc golf, train rides, mini golf, bounce houses, pool, and more. $5–$10 admission. More info
• Ridgefield Dragon Boat Paddles — 5:30 PM at Ridgefield. Free community paddling — no experience needed, equipment provided. Ages 14+. More info
• Haunted History Walking Tour — 7:00 PM at Clark County Historical Museum, Vancouver. Guides lead you through tales of what haunts the buildings and streets of downtown Vancouver. $20. More info
• The Weeds: Trio of Innovative Original Irish Melodies — 7:30 PM at Old Liberty Theater, Ridgefield. Family trio blending traditional Irish melodies with original compositions on fiddle, mandolin, banjo, Celtic harp, and more. $22. More info

Saturday, September 12

• VAS BirdBlitz 2026 on iNaturalist — Starting at 6:00 AM. Team up with Vancouver Audubon Society to find and document birds across Clark, Skamania, and Klickitat counties. Upload photos and recordings to iNaturalist. More info
• Summit Climb on Mt. St. Helens — 6:00 AM. A single-day non-technical scramble to the summit with professional guides — designed for both novice hikers and experienced mountaineers. More info
• Salmon Creek Trail Parkrun — 9:00 AM at 800 NE 117th St., Vancouver. A free, fun, and friendly weekly 5k community event. Walk, jog, run, volunteer, or spectate. More info
• Litter Pickup at Frenchman's Bar Regional Park — 9:00–11:30 AM. Join Clark County Public Works to help clean up the park. Wear closed-toe shoes, bring water and a snack. More info
• Uptown Vancouver Community Cleanup — 9:00 AM at Kindred Vancouver, 2213 Main St. Grab gloves and picker-uppers, help clean up the neighborhood, and keep Uptown beautiful. More info
• Curiosity Kids: Sasquatch Science Team at OMSI — 9:00–10:00 AM at OMSI, Portland. Curious kids and families use their five senses to explore the natural world through Sasquatch-themed science. More info
• Vancouver Peace & Justice Fair — 9:00 AM at Esther Short Park, Vancouver. Local organizations, performers, artists, and community groups showcase their work. 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, and historic airplanes on display. Free for all ages. More info
• Dandelion Wish Fair — 10:00 AM at Dandelion Teahouse & Apothecary, Vancouver. The final summer makers market featuring local vendors with skincare, plants, jewelry, quilts, and more. More info
• 2026 Catio Tour — 10:00 AM in SE Portland. Peek into creative outdoor cat spaces, from simple enclosures to standout backyard showpieces. $15. More info
• Bird Stories of Plas Newydd Farm Writing Workshop — 10:00 AM in Ridgefield. Writer Kate Gray leads a workshop inspired by the farm's feathered friends. No writing experience necessary. Coffee and snacks provided. More info
• Nature Days at Columbia Springs: Fire, Fungi & Other Community Builders — 10:00 AM. A free exploration of the natural world with hands-on activities and presentations. All ages welcome. More info
• OMSI Public Star Party: Autumn Night Sky — 8:00 PM at Stub Stewart State Park, Buxton, OR. View planets, the moon, stars, and celestial sights through telescopes of all sizes with OMSI and Rose City Astronomers. Free (parking $10/vehicle). More info

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