📰 What's Making News

Fort Vancouver Honors the Fallen for 21st Straight Year

Monday morning at the Fort Vancouver Barracks Parade Grounds, hundreds gathered for Vancouver's annual Memorial Day Remembrance Ceremony — now in its 21st year. Keynote speaker Ron Powers called it "a sacred day of remembrance," and the ceremony featured a dove release, a rifle salute, a flyover, and a performance by the Vancouver Community Concert Band. The Community Military Appreciation Committee, the National Park Service, and the Historic Trust coordinated the event, with Mayor Anne McEnerny-Ogle and veteran leader Marv Serhan among those paying tribute. If you missed it, both The Columbian and Clark County Today have full coverage worth a quiet read.

L&L Hawaiian Barbecue Brings Island Plates to Orchards

Craving a proper Hawaiian mixed plate without booking a flight? L&L Hawaiian Barbecue just opened in Vancouver, serving up traditional island-style comfort food — think loco moco, kalua pork, and chicken katsu over rice with a scoop of macaroni salad. The chain has a cult following across the West Coast and its arrival gives Vancouver one more reason to skip the bridge for dinner. The Columbian has the full story on the new spot.

WSU Finds High Hantavirus Rates in Palouse Mice

A new Washington State University study found that more than a quarter of mice trapped across the Palouse showed signs of previous hantavirus infection — unusually high levels that caught researchers' attention. Hantavirus spreads to humans through contact with infected rodent droppings, urine, or saliva, so the findings are a timely reminder to take precautions when cleaning out sheds, garages, or anywhere mice like to set up shop. The study was conducted in the Spokane and eastern Washington region, but the basics of rodent-proofing apply everywhere. Read the full findings at The Columbian.

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⚡ Quick Bites

Portland Timbers Fire Coach Phil Neville After Rough 2026 Start

The Timbers and head coach Phil Neville parted ways Monday after a disappointing opening to the MLS season — his third in charge. No replacement has been named yet, but it's worth watching for anyone who crosses the river for matches at Providence Park. Read more from The Columbian.

Jim Henson's Creature Shop Now Welcomes Visitors in New York

The legendary puppet studio behind the Muppets and Sesame Street characters has opened its doors for public tours inside a cavernous New York City warehouse. If a family trip east is on your summer radar, this one's worth bookmarking. Full story here.

7-Eleven Visionary Toshifumi Suzuki Dies at 93

Toshifumi Suzuki, the Japanese businessman who turned 7-Eleven into a global convenience-store empire, passed away at 93. Next time you grab a Slurpee at Mill Plain or Fourth Plain, you can thank his "conbini" model. Read the story.

Hong Kong's Century-Old Bun Festival Draws Record Crowds

Cheung Chau island hosted throngs of revelers for Hong Kong's iconic bun festival, a tradition rooted in prayers for peace and blessings that dates back more than a hundred years. See the celebration.

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📅 Mark Your Calendar

Tuesday, May 26

• Southwest Washington Watercolor Society Spring Exhibit – 10:00 AM at The Arts Centered, Vancouver. Over 40 regional artists showcasing their best watercolor work, judged by award-winning artist Tess Myers. More info
• Pairs and Spares Seniors at Red Robin – 12:00 PM at Red Robin Vancouver Mall, Vancouver. Join the group for a casual lunch outing. Call 360-892-8944 for details. More info
• Shut Up & Write! Writers Group – 5:15 PM at Vancouver Arts Hub, Vancouver. Free co-working session for writers of all levels — show up, get your writing done, and meet fellow wordsmiths afterward. More info
• Vancouver Wildlife League Monthly Meeting – 6:00 PM at Smith-Reynolds American Legion Post 14, Vancouver. Daron Hauswald, Chris White, and Amy Eliot will explain new volunteer registration for Washington State Fish and Wildlife. Last chance to register for the league's annual dinner on June 5. Free and open to the public. More info
• Clark County Genealogical Society Meeting: Finding African Ancestors – 7:00 PM at Clark County Genealogical Society and Library, Vancouver. A free presentation offering clues and historical context for researchers in African American genealogy. Members and guests welcome. More info

Wednesday, May 27

• TOPS WA 1056 – 8:15 AM at Fourth Plain Church of the Nazarene, Vancouver. Weekly weigh-in and support meeting for those on a wellness journey. More info
• Enhance Fitness Classes – 8:30 AM at Bethel Lutheran Church, Brush Prairie. Evidence-based group exercise for older adults (60+) to stay active and healthy. A second session runs 10:00–11:00 AM. More info
• Free Financial Planning Day – 9:00 AM–6:00 PM at Johnson Bixby, 275 W. Third St., Suite 600, Vancouver. Complimentary 30-minute one-on-one sessions with a certified financial planner — in person or on Zoom. More info
• Marshall House Tours – 10:00 AM–2:00 PM at Marshall House, Fort Vancouver National Historic Site, Vancouver. Free tours of the historic Officers Row home featuring period furnishings 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. Free tours by reservation or for small walk-in groups. More info
• Wednesday Wanders – 10:00 AM at the Water Resources Education Center, Vancouver. A free guided nature walk exploring Columbia River ecosystems and wetlands — great for families with kids 6+. Registration required. More info
• Community Storytime in the Park – 10:30 AM at Rheingarten Park, White Salmon. Stories, songs, and fun activities for ages 0–5 and their caregivers. More info
• Pairs and Spares Seniors at Makoto Japanese Buffet – 11:30 AM at Makoto Japanese Buffet, 1119 S.E. 163rd Pl., Vancouver. Call 360-892-8944 for details. More info
• Sing-alongs with Coyote Moon Band – 12:00 PM at Firstenburg Community Center, Vancouver. Vocalist Yvonne Mancini and guitarists Jim Moody and Cliff Butler lead a free, feel-good afternoon of sing-alongs. More info
• Contemplative Prayer – 12:20 PM at St. Paul Lutheran Church, Vancouver. A brief midday pause with quiet music, 12:20–12:45 PM. Free. More info
• Music Therapy Song Circle – 1:00 PM at Family of Christ Lutheran Church, Vancouver (Felida). Licensed music therapist Kelly Aloia leads a free, open-to-all song circle. More info
• NEW Silver Trails Community Walk – 2:00 PM, launching from Orchards Park, Vancouver. A brand-new walking program for adults 65+ from Parks Foundation of Clark County, Community in Motion, and Vancouver Parks. Easy 1–2 mile walks through beautiful local parks all summer long. More info
• Kids & Tweens STEM Lab – 4:00 PM at Washougal Community Library, Washougal. Hands-on science, tech, engineering, and math fun for ages 5–12. Free. More info
• Seeds to Salmon Educator Curriculum Workshop (Part 1) – 4:30 PM. Free workshop for WA State certificated educators from the Lower Columbia Fish Enhancement Group. Earn 5 STEM Clock Hours (attendance at both Part 1 and Part 2 on May 30 required). More info
• Live Music at The Grant House – 5:00 PM at The Grant House, Officers Row, Vancouver. Willful Wine presents solo musicians from 5–7 PM. Free. More info
• Fort Vancouver Kiwanis – 5:30 PM at Brothers Cascadia Brewing Evergreen Pub, Vancouver. Fourth-Wednesday evening meeting featuring a local speaker. More info
• Poetry Street PNW – 6:00 PM at Camas Public Library, Camas. An open mic where every voice is heard — read your original or favorite work and enjoy monthly featured poets. All ages, free. More info
• 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

Thursday, May 28

• Advanced Competitive Bridge Bidding – 10:00 AM at Vancouver Bridge Club, Vancouver. Class for beginning and intermediate players with Ruby Life Master instructor Michael Walker. $10–$50. More info
• Vancouver Quilt Club – 11:00 AM (and again at 6:00 PM) at Craft Warehouse, Hazel Dell. See new fabrics, notions, and quilting books — bring a current project and swap inspiration. Free. More info
• General Federation of Women's Clubs Meeting – 2:00 PM at Prince of Peace Lutheran Church, Battle Ground. Enjoy social time plus a presentation by Dustin Waliezer from Fire District 3. More info
• Preschool Flower Shop – 3:00 PM at Camas Public Library, Camas. Preschoolers sort colorful flowers, take customer orders, and arrange bouquets in this hands-on dramatic play experience. Free. More info
• Kids & Tweens Build It – 3:30 PM at Vancouver Community Library, Vancouver. LEGO bricks, blocks, boxes, and more for ages 5–12. Free. More info
• National Burger Day Celebration at Bless Your Heart Burgers – 4:00 PM at 7910 E. Mill Plain Blvd., Vancouver. Free classic single burger for everyone, plus merchandise giveaways, an on-site DJ, and raffle prizes from 4–9 PM. More info
• Library Trivia Nights – 5:00 PM at Vancouver Community Library, Columbia Room. Play solo or with a team, enjoy refreshments, and make new friends. Family-friendly and free. More info
• Oak Gall Ink Making Workshop – 5:00 PM at 105 E. Jewett Blvd., White Salmon. Local artist Molly Holmlund demonstrates making ink from oak galls and other natural ingredients. $50, ages 12+. More info
• Understory: NW Film Festival – 5:30 PM doors, 6:30 PM showtime at Kiggins Theatre, Vancouver. Cascade Forest Conservancy presents films celebrating adventure, conservation, and our connection to the natural world — including The Grand Salmon, Speaking Eep!, The Lost Fish, and Living Legacies. $22–$30. More info
• Salmon Creek Flyfishers Club Meeting – 6:00 PM at American Legion Post 176, Vancouver. Learn about tying flies and fishing. Food available for purchase. More info
• Ridgefield Raptors Baseball Home Game – 6:30 PM at Ridgefield Outdoor Recreation Complex. Cheer on Clark County's hometown team! More info
• Line Dancing Lessons – 7:00 PM at Ashwood Taps and Trucks, Washougal. Instructor Kat Nichols leads East Coast and line dance styles — beginners welcome, all ages. $10. More info

Friday, May 29

• Homeschool Open House at Pomeroy Farm – 9:00 AM–12:00 PM in Yacolt. Families and small groups (under 20 students) explore "Children's Work & Play on a Pre-Electric Farm" for grades 2–5. $8. More info
• Learn to Kayak Tour in Ridgefield – 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
• Volunteer Clean-Up at Countryside Park – 10:00 AM–12:00 PM at 15204 N.E. Seventh St., Vancouver. Pick up litter and remove invasive plants. Training, gloves, tools, water, and snacks provided. Free. More info
• 2026 Columbia Credit Union Tour of Homes: New & Remodeled – 11:00 AM at various locations. Tour finished projects from Clark County's top builders and remodelers, ask questions, and discover trends. More info
• Paint, Sip and Celebrate the Stars and Stripes – 11:00 AM at Founders Coffee and Mercantile, Battle Ground. A watercolor painting experience with picnic boxes and sparkling lemonade. $60, registration required. More info
• 60+ Senior Community Meal Program – 12:00 PM at Calvary Chapel Vancouver. Free lunch for low-income seniors age 60+, served noon–1:00 PM. More info
• Pairs and Spares Seniors at Cameo Cafe – 12:00 PM at Cameo Cafe, 7703 N.E. 72nd Ave., Vancouver. Call 360-892-8944 for details. More info
• NAMI Art Group – 1:00 PM at NAMI Southwest Washington, 4201 N.E. 66th Ave., Suite 105, Vancouver. A free weekly art session. More info
• Alderbrook Park Cruise-In – 4:00 PM–8:00 PM at Alderbrook Park, Brush Prairie. Classic cars plus disc golf, train rides, mini golf, bounce houses, pool, and more included with admission. $5–$10. More info
• Tween & Teen Tabletop Role-Playing Game Adventure – 4:30 PM at Ridgefield Community Library. Play Pathfinder 1E for ages 9–19 — no experience needed. Free. More info
• Family and Friends Friday Climb – 5:00 PM at Firstenburg Community Center, Vancouver. Ages 4+ can tackle multiple climbing difficulty levels — no experience necessary, all equipment provided. $33 resident/$41 non-resident. More info
• Collaborative Art at Rebecca Anstine Gallery – 5:00 PM reception at the sixth floor of the Clark County Public Service Center, Vancouver. Featuring two collaborative exhibits by Vancouver School of Arts and Academics students and art teacher Crystal Zelle. Free. More info
• Community Dragon Boat Paddle – 5:30 PM at Ridgefield Public Boat Launch. Free, no experience needed, equipment provided. Ages 14+. More info
• Inspire Vancouver Information Sessions – 5:30 PM at Vancouver Arts Hub, Vancouver. Learn about the new grant program investing $6 million a year in public arts, culture, heritage, and science. Free. More info
• Cake, Canvas and Coffee – 5:30 PM at Founders Coffee and Mercantile, Battle Ground. Decorate a cake canvas with frosting, sprinkles, and instructor guidance. $50, registration required. More info
• Catalyst Spring Musical Revue – 6:00 PM at The Judy, Portland. Northwest Children's Theatre's youth company performs Broadway's greatest hits. $5. More info
• Hockinson Fun Days – 6:00 PM bingo for prizes at Hockinson High School (events continue May 30 with a pancake breakfast, parade, bazaar, and carnival). Free. More info
• Fort Vancouver Antique Equipment Association Monthly Meeting – 6:00 PM at Old Town Burgers and Breakfast, Battle Ground. For anyone who loves vintage power farm equipment, stuck pistons, and rusty bolts. Free. More info
• Evergreen Dance Center Presents: Coppelia – 6:30 PM at Columbia Theatre, Longview. The timeless ballet classic performed live. $18–$25. More info
• Jesus and Friends: An Evening of Acoustic Christian Music – 6:30 PM at St. Paul Lutheran Church, Vancouver. Modern Christian music on acoustic instruments. Free, donations encouraged. More info
• Journey Theater Presents Seussical – 7:00 PM at Manor Church, Battle Ground. The Cat in the Hat, Horton, and the whole Seuss gang come to life on stage. $16–$18. More info
• Drunken Shakespeare – 7:00 PM at Tap Union Freehouse, Vancouver. A 21+ fundraiser for Metropolitan Performing Arts' free summer production of As You Like It. Craft brews, bites, and the Bard. Suggested donation $25. More info
• God of Carnage by Starbird Theatre – 7:30 PM at Sherman Auditorium, Vancouver. A Tony Award-winning dark comedy about two couples whose civilized conversation hilariously unravels. $23–$25. More info
• [title of show] by Clark College Theatre – 7:30 PM at Clark College Decker Theater, Vancouver. A love letter to musical theatre and the joy of collaboration. Free–$12. More info

Saturday, May 30

• Our Time to Shine Family Festival – 8:00 AM at WSU Vancouver. Seedling Psychological Services hosts a 5K fun run, 1K kids trot, resource fair, bounce house, face painting, and more. More info
• Veterans' Trail Work Party at Whistle Punk – 8:30 AM. A trail maintenance outing tailored for veterans and service members from all branches — build camaraderie and enjoy the outdoors. More info
• Coyote-palooza! – 8:30 AM in Portland. A family- and pet-friendly day of discovery about one of nature's most adaptable creatures, with hands-on activities and expert booths. More info
• Downtown Vancouver Farmers Market – 9:00 AM–3:00 PM at Esther Short Park, Vancouver. Our flagship year-round market with local produce, food, crafts, and community vibes. More info
• Stewardship Saturday at Columbia Springs – 9:00 AM–12:00 PM at Columbia Springs, Vancouver. Volunteer to remove invasive species, maintain trails, and improve the site. Tools and gloves provided. More info
• Secret Spaces Tour: Post Hospital – 9:00 AM. The Historic Trust brings back its popular Preservation Month tours — step inside the 1903 Post Hospital and explore original structural features. $35. More info
• Portland Rose Festival – 9:00 AM in Portland. The iconic regional celebration returns. More info
• Weave a Willow Market Basket – 9:00 AM in Ridgefield. A two-day class with Ridgefield artist Robin Brady using cultivated and wild willows grown locally. More info
• Seeds to Salmon Educator Curriculum Workshop (Part 2) – 9:00 AM–12:00 PM. The second required session for WA State educators earning 5 free STEM Clock Hours. More info
• Birds and Blooms of Burnt Bridge Creek – 9:30 AM. Join City of Vancouver staff for a springtime walk identifying native plants and listening for migrating songbirds. For adults and families with kids 8+. Registration required. More info
• Bookmark Contest Celebration – 10:00 AM at Three Creeks Community Library, Vancouver. Reveal the branch winners, pick up new bookmarks, and enjoy refreshments from the Cascade Park Friends of the Library. Free. More info
• Open Saturday at Pearson Field Education Center – 10:00 AM–3:00 PM, Vancouver. Free STEAM education through aviation — flight simulators, a vertical wind table, and historic airplanes on display. More info
• Mural Installation in Washougal – 10:00 AM at Two Rivers Heritage Museum. Dedication of a striking 24x8-foot historic mural by local artist Travis London depicting early life in Camas and Washougal. Free. More info
• 2026 Multicultural Resource Fair – 10:00 AM. Music, dance, cultural demonstrations, and connections with local nonprofits and community organizations. More info
• Northwest Children's Theater Presents: You'll See – 11:00 AM at Northwest Children's Theater, Portland. James Joyce's epic Ulysses brought to life for ages 8+ with live performance, paper design, and an original score. $15–$20. More info
• NAMI Walks – 12:00 PM at Marine Park, Vancouver. The community's biggest mental health fundraising walk — come join the joy and show that Mental Health is for All. More info
• Chelatchie Prairie Railroad Summer Train Rides – 12:00 PM departing from Yacolt. Ride through the tunnel, across the East Fork of the Lewis River, and stop at Moulton Station to visit Yacolt Falls. $18–$24. More info
• Hiking Clinic – NW Association of Blind Athletes – 12:00 PM. Programming for athletes of all ages and ability levels who are blind or visually impaired. More info
• Fort Vancouver Rose Society's 71st Annual Rose Show – 1:00 PM–4:00 PM at Clark County Event Center, Ridgefield. Free admission to see stunning rose displays, photography entries, a Garden Market with local vendors, and on-site rose care experts. More info
• Bread Day at Cedar Creek Grist Mill – 1:00 PM in Woodland. Taste fresh bread made from flour milled on-site at this historic water-powered mill. More info
• Sidewalk Chalk Day with British Swim School – 1:00 PM at LeRoy Haagen Memorial Park, Vancouver. They provide the chalk, you provide the creativity. Free. More info
• Celebrating 121 Years at Oaks Park – 1:00 PM at Oaks Park, Portland. Unlimited ride wristbands for $19.05 online, plus beer tasting, free cake and balloons, and the unveiling of the updated Willamette Willy game. More info
• NPS Book Launch: "Ellie May and the Midnight Search" – 1:00 PM at Fort Vancouver. Meet search and rescue hound Ellie May and handler JW Jones at the launch of their children's book — a true story beautifully illustrated for all ages. More info
• The Very Hungry Caterpillar – Broadway Mini's Showcase – 1:30 PM at 6403 E. Mill Plain Blvd., Vancouver. Watch 3–6-year-olds sing, dance, and act their way through the beloved story. Free. More info
• Blueprint Arts Presents: Dreamers of Dreams – 2:00 PM at Rose City Park United Methodist Church, Portland. Sapphire Wind Symphony performs — pay what you want (including free!). More info

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