📰 What's Making News

Fireworks Stands Open Sunday as Clark County Gears Up for the 250th

America's semiquincentennial is shaping up to be a big one in Clark County — and local fireworks purveyors are expecting brisk sales to match. Stands across the county open Sunday, giving you a full week to stock up before the Fourth. Fire agencies are already bracing for an especially enthusiastic celebration this year, so expect to see extra preparedness messaging in the days ahead. Whether you go all-in on the backyard show or keep it to sparklers, it's going to be a lively one. Read more from The Columbian.

Fishermen Pull Person From Columbia River Before Fire Boat Arrives

Quick-thinking citizen fishermen on the Columbia River became rescuers this week when they pulled a person from the water before Vancouver Fire Department's Fire Boat 1 could reach the scene. Engineer Paramedic Casey Holmes and crews from Vancouver Fire responded alongside AMR and the Multnomah County Sheriff's Office. The rescue is a sharp reminder that cold-water conditions on the Columbia persist well into summer, even when air temperatures climb. If you're heading out on the water, life jackets remain the simplest thing between a good day and a bad one. Full story at Clark County Today.

31 Feet vs. 6.71: The 1948 Flood That Reshaped Vancouver's Riverfront

Here's a number to sit with: on June 13, 1948, the Columbia River crested at 31 feet at Vancouver during the second-worst recorded flood in the river's history — and the most damaging. This year, on the same date, the river measured just 6.71 feet. The 1948 flood saw the Columbia running at twice its normal rate, devastating communities along its banks and permanently changing how the region thinks about flood infrastructure. It's a fascinating piece of Clark County history worth revisiting. Read the full history at The Columbian.

Ridgefield Waterfront Plan Draws Pushback Over Density Concerns

The Port of Ridgefield's proposed waterfront development along Lake River has residents rallying — some literally wearing matching T-shirts that read "The community has spoken." Opponents say the project is too dense for the cherished waterfront area, and the debate is drawing attention across the growing city. Ridgefield has been one of Clark County's fastest-changing communities, and how the waterfront develops will shape the town's character for decades. If you have ties to Ridgefield, this one's worth following closely. More details from The Columbian.

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⚡ Quick Bites

Honestly, today's news feed was a quiet one for Vancouver proper — most of what crossed our desk was national filler or regional stories without a local hook. Rather than pad this section with fluff, we're keeping it tight and useful. We'll be back tomorrow with more to share.

The Columbian's Business Briefing Spotlights Local Movers

The Columbian published its June 27 Business Briefing — worth a scan if you like keeping tabs on promotions, new hires, and people making moves in Clark County's business scene.

Allen Wilson's Latest Gardening Column Hits Close to Home

Clark County's own Allen Wilson is back with a new installment of his popular Columbian column, this time drawing life lessons from the garden. If you're already out watering this weekend, it's a quick, feel-good read between trips to the hose.

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📅 Mark Your Calendar

Sunday, June 28

• Big Smoke BBQ, Brew, Music Festival — All day (June 26–28). Savor the finest BBQ, live music, and craft vendors in the heart of the Pacific Northwest. Haydu Park, Kalama. More info
• Mt. St. Helens Summit Climb with MSHI — 6:00 AM. A single-day non-technical scramble to the summit with professional mountain guides and certified volunteer climbing stewards, designed for both novice hikers and experienced mountaineers. More info
• Road Trip: Lincoln City Kite Festival — 8:00 AM. Head to Chinook Winds Casino Resort in Lincoln City, OR, to watch huge colorful kites take flight — giant octopuses, breaching whales, and fast Rokkaku kites dancing through the air. More info
• Free Outdoor Fitness Bootcamps — 9:00 AM. Northwest Personal Training hosts a free full-body muscle and cardio workout at scenic Vancouver locations. All fitness levels welcome. Meet at 1011 Broadway, Vancouver. Fill out a waiver at nwpersonaltraining.com before class. More info
• Mt. St. Helens Special Eruption Hike with MSHI Geologist — 9:00 AM. Explore the hummocks created by the May 18, 1980, eruption on a guided nature hike through the incredible geological and biological landscape. More info
• Ridgefield Learn to Kayak Tour — 9:00 AM. Join Alder Creek Kayak & Canoe and paddle through the winding Columbia River Water Trail near the Ridgefield National Wildlife Refuge. Ridgefield Waterfront Park. More info
• Downtown Vancouver Market — 10:00 AM–3:00 PM. Our flagship year-round farmers market at 8th & Esther St., next to beautiful Esther Short Park. More info
• Kids Crochet at Hook & Needle — 10:00 AM. Becka of Radiant Beans teaches a one-hour beginner crochet class for ages 10+ at Hook and Needle, 621 Broadway, Vancouver. Students will make bookmarks. Supplies included. $45. More info
• Edible Plant Walks at Nature's Haven Natives — 10:00 AM. Join Allie at Nature's Haven Nursery in Camas for a tour of edible native plants, then shop the nursery to take home your favorites. Free; registration required. More info
• Adaptive Bike Clinic — 11:00 AM. Try adaptive cycling at Portland Sunday Parkways! Learn about and demo handcycles, tandems, and tricycles, then join a group ride at 1:30 PM. Helmets mandatory. More info
• Jardin De Las Maravillas (Garden of Wonders) — 12:00 PM and 5:00 PM. Ballet Folklorico Academia Gabriela presents a magical celebration of Folklórico dance journeying through the vibrant regions of Mexico. The Reser Center for the Arts, Beaverton. $29.50–$34.50. More info
• Ridgefield Raptors Baseball Home Game — 1:00 PM. Watch Clark County's hometown baseball team at the Ridgefield Outdoor Recreation Complex. More info
• Lavender Wreath Making Class — 1:00 PM–4:00 PM. Emily from Ridgefield Lavender Farm teaches you how to create your own fresh lavender wreath at Windy Hills Winery, Ridgefield. All ages welcome; food and drink available for purchase. Contact ridgefieldlavender@gmail.com for tickets. More info
• Water Safety Day at Kazoodles Toy Store — 1:00 PM. Learn about water safety in lakes, rivers, and streams, plus get a free visit to the Kazoodles Creator Station. Kazoodles Toys, Vancouver. Free. More info
• The Bridges of Madison County — 2:00 PM. The Tony Award-winning musical based on the best-selling novel, featuring a sweeping score by Jason Robert Brown. Magenta Theater, Vancouver. $32. More info
• Board Game Social Club — 2:30 PM–5:00 PM. Drop in to enjoy a variety of board games — play an old favorite or learn something new. Vancouver Community Library. Free. More info
• As You Like It — 6:00 PM. MPA's Community Theater presents their 8th annual summer Shakespeare touring show. Come at 5 PM for the 17th annual season announcement party. 6403 E Mill Plain Blvd, Vancouver. Free. More info

Monday, June 29

• Early Learners Play to Learn — 10:00 AM–11:00 AM. Fun hands-on activities and early literacy tips for ages 0–5 and their caregivers. Battle Ground Community Library. Free. More info
• The Great Summer Dash at Vancouver Mall — 10:00 AM. Complete fun challenges, earn points, and enter for chances to win prizes all summer long (June 15–Aug. 14). Vancouver Mall. More info
• Community Harvest Volunteer Day — 10:00 AM. Join Latinos Unidos y Floreciendo for a weekly volunteer gathering rooted in stewardship, shared labor, and food access. More info
• Storytime in the Park — 10:30 AM–11:00 AM. Join the Camas Library at Dorothy Fox Park (2023 NW 23rd Ave.) for a family storytime outdoors. Bring a blanket! All ages. Free. More info
• Downtown Vancouver Rotary Lunch Meeting — 12:00 PM–1:00 PM. Community members are welcome at the weekly lunch meeting at AC Marriott on the Vancouver waterfront. Free. More info
• Line Dancing — 1:30 PM–3:30 PM. Get your dancing shoes on and learn line dances for fun and exercise. Cascade Park Community Library. Free. More info
• Early Learners Music and Movement — 2:30 PM–3:30 PM. Songs, rhymes, rhythm, and dance for ages 0–5 and their caregivers. Vancouver Community Library. Free. More info
• Washougal's America250 Kickoff — 4:00 PM. Free snow cones, postcards, music, historical documents, and giveaways at Reflection Plaza, 1703 Main St., Washougal. More info
• United States Trivia — 5:30 PM–7:30 PM. Celebrate the nation's 250th anniversary by testing your knowledge of American history, pop culture, presidents, and pivotal moments. Camas Public Library. Free. Register at camaspl.org/USA250. More info
• Road Trip: Adaptive Bicycling Summer Series — 6:00 PM–8:00 PM. Adaptive Sports Northwest's summer cycling series at Portland International Raceway. Bring your own bike or try a demo. Helmets required. More info
• WA-DFW Online Crabbing Workshop — 6:00 PM–7:00 PM. Learn about 2026 crab seasons, regulations, gear setup, best bait, and techniques from the Northwest Straits Foundation and WDFW. More info
• Monday Trivia Night at Pour Choices Pub — 6:30 PM. Gather your team and put your knowledge to the test, hosted by the always entertaining Don Elliott. 1919 Main St., Vancouver. More info
• The Strawberry Moon — 7:56 PM. Look up! The first full moon of summer rises tonight. More info

Tuesday, June 30

• Angel Ocasio's Comedy, Magic and Stuff — 9:30 AM. Comedian Angel Ocasio combines silly antics, magic, juggling, and audience participation for a fun and wacky show. Various FVRL Library Locations. Free. More info
• Blurock Beach Cleanup — 10:00 AM. Join Clark County Public Works volunteers for a litter cleanup at Blurock Landing. All tools provided. Wear closed-toe shoes. More info
• Recycling 101: Learn the Basics — 12:00 PM. Get all the details about our regional garbage and recycling system. Hybrid option to attend online or in-person. Free. More info
• Pairs and Spares Seniors at Red Robin — 1:00 PM. Join Pairs and Spares Seniors for a social lunch at Red Robin, 8311 N.E. Vancouver Mall Drive. Call 360-892-8944 for info. More info
• Clay Worry Stones at Camas Public Library — 2:00 PM–3:00 PM. Kids in K–5th grade create pocket worry stones out of foam clay. Registration required. Free. More info
• Science Heroes: Digging It! — 2:00 PM. A hands-on, high-energy STEM show packed with audience interaction and wow moments. Various FVRL Library Locations. Free. More info
• Tie Dye Shirt Kids Camp Make & Take at Craft Warehouse — 11:00 AM–2:00 PM. Kids create their own colorful tie-dye T-shirt. Shirts, bands, and dye provided. Craft Warehouse, Vancouver. $10. More info
• Summer Vendor Open House at Black Pearl on the Columbia — 2:00 PM–9:00 PM. Tour this 12,600-square-foot riverfront venue in Washougal, meet event professionals, and enjoy views of the Columbia River and Mt. Hood. Free. More info
• Teen & Tween Tabletop RPG: Dungeon Master Workshop — 3:00 PM–4:00 PM. Learn to be an effective Game Master from a lead game master with over 40 years of experience. Ages 9–19. Three Creeks Community Library. Free. More info
• Teen Escape Room — 4:00 PM–6:00 PM. Navigate an underwater adventure, find clever clues, and solve puzzles before time runs out. Cascade Park Community Library. Free. More info
• Tween & Teen Tabletop Role-Playing Game — 4:30 PM–6:30 PM. Create a character and take on challenges playing Dungeons & Dragons 5E and Pathfinder 1E. Ages 9–19. Various FVRL Library Locations. Free. More info
• Shut Up and Write! Writers Group — 5:15 PM–6:45 PM. A weekly group for writers of all experience levels featuring dedicated writing time — no readings or critiques. Vancouver Arts Hub. Free. More info
• Spanish Conversation Group — 5:30 PM–6:30 PM. Practice your beginning Spanish skills in a casual group setting. Camas Public Library. Free; no registration required. More info
• Beginner Crochet Bookmark Workshop at Craft Collective — 6:00 PM. Learn foundational crochet skills and create handmade bookmarks with Becka of Radiant Beans. Craft Collective, Vancouver. $60. More info
• 78th St. Heritage Farm Walking Tours — 6:00 PM. Free guided tours of the 79-acre historic farm in Hazel Dell. Learn about its history, horticulture education, and community enrichment. 1919 N.E. 78th St., Vancouver. More info
• 3D Impressionism: Sculpting Motion from Plastic at OMSI — 6:30 PM. Go behind the scenes of OMSI's latest exhibition with sculptor Sayaka Ganz, who transforms discarded objects into soaring animal sculptures. Meet and greet at 5 PM. OMSI, Portland. More info

Wednesday, July 1

• Camas Library Storywalk at Dorothy Fox Park — 8:00 AM. Follow the path to read "So Tortoise Dug" by Emmy Kastner — an interactive way to enjoy reading and the outdoors. Camas. More info
• Enhance Fitness Classes — 8:30 AM and 10:00 AM. Evidence-based group exercise for older adults (age 60+). Bethel Lutheran Church, Brush Prairie. More info
• Reclaimed Creations Exhibit at OMSI — Opens 9:30 AM. Sculptor Sayaka Ganz transforms thousands of discarded plastic objects into soaring animals and rushing waves. On view July 1–Sept. 30. OMSI, Portland. More info
• Providence Academy Tours — 10:00 AM–2:00 PM. Tour the beautiful historic Providence Academy in downtown Vancouver. Free. More info
• Creature Teachers — 10:00 AM. Meet cool reptiles and creepy crawlies and learn about the wild, weird, and wonderful world of animals. La Center Community Library. Free. More info
• Marshall House Tours — 10:00 AM–2:00 PM. Free tours of the historic Marshall House on Officers Row, featuring period furnishings, military memorabilia, and General George C. Marshall's study. Fort Vancouver. More info
• High School Art Exhibit at Camas Public Library — 10:00 AM. The Second Story Gallery hosts its annual exhibition of artwork from Camas School District high school art students. All day through Aug. 1. Free. More info
• Where's Waldo? at Autumn Leaf Books — 10:00 AM. Pick up a passport from Autumn Leaf Books in Downtown Camas and search for Waldo hidden in up to 25 local businesses throughout July. Completed passports earn prizes! Free. More info
• Reading in the Wild — 10:00 AM. A free outdoor reading series for families with kids ages 3–6, featuring stories and nature activities in the native plant garden. Water Resources Education Center, Vancouver. More info
• Official Vancouver Fan Zone Watch Party — 1:00 PM. Cheer on your favorite FIFA World Cup 26 teams on massive screens at Big Al's, Vancouver's official SeattleFWC26 Fan Zone. Big Al's, Vancouver. More info
• Minions & Monsters Opening Day Event at OMSI — 2:00 PM (also 4:15 PM and 6:00 PM). Movie snacks, a beverage, and door prizes included with your ticket, plus a pass for free future museum admission. OMSI, Portland. $15–$20. More info
• Camas Farmers Market — 3:00 PM–7:00 PM. Find your favorite local farms, food, and artisans at the new temporary location on Birch Street in the heart of Downtown Camas. More info
• Kids & Tweens Create — 4:00 PM–5:00 PM. Drop in for creative and interactive projects for ages 5–12. Washougal Community Library. Free. More info
• Teen & Adult Magic the Gathering Social Club — 4:00 PM–6:00 PM. Open game play with decks provided or bring your own. Cascade Park Community Library. Free. More info
• Kids Read to a Dog — 4:00 PM–5:00 PM. Build reading skills and confidence by reading aloud to a certified therapy dog. Ages 5–9. Cascade Park Community Library. Free. More info
• Teen Magic the Gathering Social Club — 4:00 PM–6:00 PM. Open game play for ages 13–19. Decks provided or bring your own. Vancouver Community Library. Free. More info
• Kids & Tweens STEM Lab — 4:00 PM–5:30 PM. Hands-on science, technology, engineering, and math activities for ages 5–12. Vancouver Community Library. Free. More info
• Community Dragon Boat Paddle — 5:30 PM. Try this fun, team-oriented sport at Ridgefield Public Boat Launch. No experience needed; equipment provided. Ages 14+. Free. More info
• Weekly Swing Dancing at the Valiant Ballroom — 6:00 PM. East Coast and Lindy Hop style lessons and social dance. Intermediate lesson at 6 PM, beginner at 7 PM, social dance 8–9:30 PM. $5–$10. More info
• Wild Wednesdays at the Oregon Zoo — 6:00 PM–9:00 PM. Adults-only (21+) evening at the zoo with themed cocktails, live entertainment, keeper chats, and animal encounters. Oregon Zoo, Portland. More info
• Northwest Youth Music Games at McKenzie Stadium — 6:00 PM. Drum Corps International brings the world's most elite marching ensembles to McKenzie Stadium, Vancouver. $25–$60. More info

Thursday, July 2

• Longview Go 4th Festival — 9:00 AM–9:00 PM. Vendor marketplace, food vendors, Cardboard Boat Regatta, Kids Fest, timber show, and more at Lake Sacajawea Park, Longview. Free. More info
• East Vancouver Farmers Market — 10:00 AM–2:00 PM. Over 50 small businesses offering farm, food, and artisan products. Columbia Tech Center, 17701 SE Mill Plain Blvd, Vancouver. More info
• Go With the Flow: Wastewater Treatment Plant Tour — 10:00 AM–11:30 AM. See what happens to all the water that goes down your drains. Ages 8+. Closed-toe shoes required. Water Resources Education Center, Vancouver. Free. More info
• America 250 Flag Raising — 11:00 AM. The Fort Vancouver Chapter of Daughters of the American Revolution and Sons of the American Revolution host a Garrison Flag Raising at Fort Vancouver National Historic Site. Free. More info
• Crown Park Reopening Celebration — 11:00 AM–4:00 PM. The City of Camas throws a community party with food, games, a Cowlitz Tribe blessing, a Bike Rodeo with Camas Bikes, and more as part of the America 250 Celebration. More info
• Kites for Youth 2026 — 12:00 PM. A free community event by Odyssey World International Education Services. Bring the kids outdoors to fly kites and watch imaginations soar. More info
• Card-Making Club at Craft Warehouse — 1:00 PM. See new paper crafting products, try out the latest tools and techniques, and make your own cards. Craft Warehouse, Hazel Dell. Free. More info
• Discover The Culinary Collective — Ribbon Cutting at 4:00 PM. Welcome Vancouver's only dedicated kitchen store, offering exceptional kitchenware, cooking experiences, and unique gifts. 1012 Washington Street, Vancouver. 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, 10 mph pace, flat terrain. Bring a bike in good working order. More info
• Macro Photography Online Workshop — 6:00 PM. Wildlife photographer Brian Magnier discusses gear, camera settings, and techniques for stunning close-up photography. Hosted by Bird Alliance of Oregon. More info
• Drawing Wildflowers from Photographs — 6:30 PM. Learn to draw beautiful wildflowers with colored pencils in this online class with Crystal Shin, hosted by the Washington Native Plant Society. More info
• Descendants of a Revolution: Discovering Revolutionary War Ancestors — 7:00 PM. An evening exploring genealogy, family history, and the legacy of the American Revolution with presenters from the DAR and SAR. Fort Vancouver Visitor Center. $5. More info

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