📰 What's Making News

Jordan Chiles Sets Sights on L.A. 2028 — Her Third Olympics

Vancouver's own Jordan Chiles isn't done yet. The Olympic gold medalist announced Wednesday that she's officially training for the 2028 Los Angeles Games, which would mark her third trip to the Olympic stage. Chiles has been one of the most visible gymnasts in the country since her breakout in Tokyo, and the fact that she still calls Vancouver home makes every routine feel a little more personal for Clark County fans. Keep an eye on this one — L.A. is less than two years away. Read more from The Columbian.

Nine Seasons, One Legacy: Brett Henry Retires at Evergreen

Brett Henry has stepped down as Evergreen High School's boys basketball coach after nine seasons leading the Plainsmen. Henry's tenure shaped the program through multiple graduating classes, and his departure leaves big shoes to fill on the sideline. No word yet on a successor, but Evergreen families are already reflecting on what Henry meant to the program and to the young men who played for him. Read more from The Columbian.

Battle Ground Schools Face $14M Budget Gap, Tap Reserves

Battle Ground Public Schools approved a $227 million budget for the 2026–27 school year, but it comes with a significant caveat: a $14 million shortfall the district plans to cover with fund balance reserves. It's the first full year without levy funding, and rising costs in areas like special education, insurance, and fuel are squeezing the budget further. Superintendent Michelle Scott and board members including Cade Barker and Jessica Cole acknowledged the challenge while emphasizing that reserves exist for exactly this kind of moment. Read more from Clark County Today.

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💬 Community Buzz

The community discussion board was quiet today — nothing worth buzzing about just yet. We'll be back with the good stuff tomorrow!

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⚡ Quick Bites

Roots Restaurant Closes in Camas After 23-Year Run

One of Clark County's pioneering fine-dining spots, Roots Restaurant and Bar, served its final meal Tuesday after more than two decades in Camas. The restaurant helped put the local dining scene on the map when it opened in 2003. Full story here.

Goodwill Opens New Store in Ridgefield

Goodwill Industries is the latest retailer to plant a flag in fast-growing Ridgefield, joining a wave of new shops and development in the city. Read more from The Columbian.

Rain-Delayed Camas Car Show Rescheduled for Sept. 12

Only the second rainout in 19 years forced organizers to move the annual Camas Car Show to Saturday, September 12, from 2 to 7 p.m. in downtown Camas. Expect the usual lineup of classic and custom cars and trucks filling the historic streets. Details on Reddit.

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📅 Mark Your Calendar

Thursday, September 3

• Enhance Fitness Classes — Free evidence-based exercise classes for adults 60 and older, tailored to all ability levels. No pre-registration required; first-timers should arrive early. 8:30 AM at various locations around Clark County. More info
• Mount Adams Mystery Backcountry Trip — WTA Backcountry Response Team — Sign up for a surprise trail project adventure in the Indian Heaven Wilderness. Could be logout, bridge work, or treadwork — perfect for adventurous spirits. 8:30 AM, camp mileage no more than 5 miles. More info
• Communicating Through Supply Chain Disruption — Workshop led by Kayla Anderson, Founder and CEO of Riparian Media. Learn social listening strategies and leave with drafted response language you can use right away. 9:00 AM. More info
• Native Plant Tending and Traditional Cultural and Ecological Knowledge — Join the Confluence Project NW, Lower Columbia Estuary Partnership, local Indigenous partners, and the US Forest Service at the Sandy River Delta for land tending and traditional ecological knowledge work. 9:30 AM at Thousand Acres Road. More info
• East Vancouver Farmers Market — Browse more than 50 small businesses offering farm, food, and artisan products at this beloved seasonal market. 10:00 AM–2:00 PM at Columbia Tech Center, 17701 SE Mill Plain Blvd, Vancouver. More info
• Providence Academy Tours — Explore the stunning historic Providence Academy with free tours available 10:00 AM–2:00 PM at Suite 103, Providence Academy, Vancouver. More info
• Go with the Flow: Wastewater Treatment Plant Tour — A free 90-minute walking tour of Vancouver's Marine Park facility. Learn what happens to every flush and rinse. Suitable for ages 8 and older. 10:00 AM at the Water Resources Education Center, Vancouver. More info
• Marshall House Tours — Tour this beautifully preserved Queen Anne home with stained glass, decorative woodwork, military memorabilia, and period furnishings. Free. 10:00 AM at the Marshall House, Vancouver. More info
• Advanced Competitive Bridge Bidding — Six-week class for beginning and intermediate players, instructed by Michael Walker, a Ruby Life Master. 10:00 AM at Vancouver Bridge Club, 6503 E. Mill Plain Blvd. $10–$50. More info
• Card Making Club at Craft Warehouse — Free monthly card-making gathering for all skill levels. Discover new paper crafting products and get creative with fellow enthusiasts. 1:00 PM at Craft Warehouse, Vancouver. More info
• Reading Dragons Kickoff — Pick up a reading tracker, receive a mystery card pack, and enter for a chance to win a prize at the Camas Public Library's all-ages kickoff. Free. 3:00–4:00 PM at Camas Public Library. More info
• Teen Hangout at Vancouver Community Library — Games, crafts, chatting, and free snacks for ages 13–19, courtesy of the Friends of Vancouver Community Library. 4:30–6:30 PM. More info
• Wintler Beach Clean-Up — Join Riparian Media and the City of Vancouver for a volunteer beach clean-up at Wintler Park. RSVP so organizers can bring enough supplies. 6:00–8:00 PM. More info
• Bird Language: Learning to Read the Landscape Through Birds — An immersive virtual class with naturalist Rey Snyder exploring how to interpret what birds are saying about their surroundings. 6:00 PM. More info
• Family Bingo at Kalama Harbor Lodge — Free, all-ages bingo night at McMenamins Kalama Harbor Lodge. Doors at 6:00 PM, bingo at 7:00 PM. Win fun prizes — including an overnight stay for the blackout round. More info
• Line Dancing at Ashwood Taps and Trucks — Join instructor Kat Nichols for a beginner-friendly line dancing night. $10 to dance, open to all ages. 7:00–9:00 PM at Ashwood Taps and Trucks, Washougal. More info
• Fort Vancouver Rose Society September In-House Rose Show — Enjoy the annual in-house rose show plus a "Wings and Roses" chicken wing supper. Open to the public. 7:00 PM at St. Luke's-San Lucas Episcopal Church, Vancouver. More info
• Clark County Historical Museum: "Brewing and Distilling in the Pacific Northwest" — Speaker Sam Busick explores the complicated history of alcohol in the Pacific Northwest, from Fort Vancouver to the modern brewing boom. $5. 7:00 PM at Clark County Historical Museum, Vancouver. More info

Friday, September 4

• Backpacking Fundamentals: Mount Hood with Opal Creek Center — A three-day beginner backpacking expedition through old-growth forest, meadows, and trout-filled lakes. Build backcountry skills like water filtration, route finding, and gear packing. 8:30 AM departure. More info
• The Portland Maize and Pumpkin Patch — Almost 2 miles of corn maze pathways on Sauvie Island. Open 10:00 AM–5:00 PM Fridays through Mondays in September. More info
• Playgroup — A drop-in play session for ages 9 months to 6 years at Firstenburg Community Center, Vancouver. Kids explore while parents socialize. 10:00 AM. $7–$9. More info
• Fall Watercolor Workshops — Kathryn Garcia-Stackpole of Kathryn By Design teaches florals, apples, and pumpkins. Beginners welcome. All materials included. 10:30 AM–12:30 PM at Vancouver Arts Hub. $125. More info
• 60+ Senior Community Meal Program — Free lunch for low-income seniors age 60 and older, served 12:00–1:00 PM at Calvary Chapel Vancouver, 6503 E. Mill Plain Blvd. Sponsored by the 5&2 Food Pantry. More info
• NAMI Art Group — Join the National Alliance on Mental Illness of Southwest Washington for a creative session. 1:00–3:00 PM at the NAMI office, 4201 NE 66th Ave., Suite 105, Vancouver. Free. More info
• Alderbrook Park Cruise-In — Friday night fun with disc golf, train rides, mini golf, bounce houses, a pool, and more. Gates open at 4:00 PM, ends at 8:00 PM. Alderbrook Park, Brush Prairie. $5–$10. More info
• Discover Downtown Ridgefield — Ridgefield Main Street's First Friday experience with late-night shopping, dining, and strolling. Free to attend; VIP packages also available. 4:00–8:00 PM in Downtown Ridgefield. More info
• First Friday Art Walk — Downtown Vancouver's galleries and art-centric businesses open their doors. Most locations open 5:00–8:00 PM. Free. More info
• Celebrate Art First Friday in Camas — Art shows, demos, hands-on experiences including quilling, basket weaving, pottery, and more for all ages. Plus after-hours shopping and dining. 5:00–8:00 PM in Downtown Camas. Free. More info
• Between Page and Panel — The Camas Public Library's Second Story Gallery opens an exhibit of original artwork by 15 local children's book illustrators. Opening reception 5:00–8:00 PM. On view through Oct. 17. Free. More info
• Aurora Gallery presents "Around Vancouver" — Celebrating 23 years, Aurora Gallery showcases local artists depicting recognizable Vancouver scenes, plus Cortney Firstenburg's first exhibit. Reception 5:00–8:00 PM at 1004 Main St., Vancouver. Free. More info
• Attic Gallery September Exhibit: Curator's Choice — Paintings and sculptures selected by gallery owners, with live music, wine, and light refreshments. Reception 5:00–8:00 PM at 419 NE Cedar St., Camas. Free. More info
• Into the Crater Hike with the Mt. St. Helens Institute — A bucket-list adventure into the crater of an active volcano with expert geologists and mountain guides. 5:00 PM. More info
• MSHI GeoGirls Art Display — See what young women discovered and created at the free geology and technology camp at Mount St. Helens. 5:00 PM at 210 W Evergreen Blvd, Suite 300, Vancouver. More info
• Community Dragon Boat Paddle — Try dragon boat paddling for free at the Ridgefield Public Boat Launch. Ages 14 and older, no experience needed, equipment provided. 5:30 PM. More info
• Clay Trinket Workshop — Make your own trinkets from air-dried clay at Dandelion Teahouse and Apothecary, 109 W. Seventh St., Vancouver. All materials supplied; tea menu available. 5:30–7:30 PM. Suggested $5 donation. More info
• Family Fun Night in Salmon Creek — Games, light snacks, and laughter at the Salmon Creek Grange. Free for all; children must be accompanied by an adult. 6:00 PM. More info
• Good Times and Wine at English Estate Winery — Live music from Shirley Van Paepeghem plus food from Venue 1903. Free admission. 6:00–8:00 PM at 17806 SE First St., Vancouver. More info
• First Friday Open Sculpting at Kilnfolk — Bring your own inspiration or choose from beginner-friendly projects. No experience needed; your piece will be fired and glazed. 6:30–8:00 PM at Kilnfolk Clay Studio, Vancouver. $50. More info
• Haunted Walking Tours — Guides lead groups through downtown Vancouver sharing tales of lingering spirits, mysterious happenings, and forgotten tragedies. 7:00 PM at Clark County Historical Museum. $15–$20. More info
• Live Music on the Patio at Farrar's Bistro — Enjoy food, cocktails, and local wine with live performances on the pet-friendly patio. 7:00 PM at 12514 NW 36th Ave., Vancouver. More info
• Scottish Dance Party — An evening of easy dancing at Columbia Dance, 1700 Broadway, Vancouver. No partner or experience needed; all dances taught and called. 7:30–9:00 PM. $5. More info
• Candlelight: Coldplay and Imagine Dragons — A tribute concert performed by candlelight at The Old Church Concert Hall, Portland. 8:30 PM. $49.50–$81.50. More info

Saturday, September 5

• Summit Climb on Mt. St. Helens — A single-day guided scramble to the summit with professional mountain guides. Designed for novice hikers and experienced mountaineers alike. 6:00 AM. More info
• Downtown Vancouver Farmers Market — The flagship year-round market at Esther Short Park with local produce, food, and artisan goods. 9:00 AM–3:00 PM. More info
• Ridgefield Multicultural Festival — A free celebration of the many cultures in Ridgefield featuring music, dance, food, traditional dress, crafts, games, and stories. 9:00 AM–3:00 PM at Overlook Park, Ridgefield. More info
• Heritage Choir Fall Street Fair — Live music, handmade crafts, artisan goods, food vendors, and family fun supporting the Heritage Choir program. 9:00 AM at Heritage High School, Vancouver. More info
• Salmon Creek Trail Parkrun — A free, friendly weekly 5K. Walk, jog, run, volunteer, or spectate. All ages and abilities welcome, dogs too. 9:00 AM at Klineline Pond and Salmon Creek Regional Park. More info
• Curiosity Kids: Design and Discover — Hands-on engineering challenges for ages 3–5 and their families at OMSI, Portland. 9:00–10:00 AM. More info
• Candle Making Workshop — Create your own natural soy wax candle with plant-based essential oils, herbs, and flowers at Kindred Vancouver, 2213 Main St. Sessions at 9:00 AM and 11:00 AM. $28. More info
• NWTA "Good Dirt!" Mountain Bike Event — The last Good Dirt! of the season hits Cascade Locks with green, blue, and black trails and scenic Columbia River Gorge views. Groups for all levels. 9:00 AM. More info
• Assisted Bridge: Lesson and Play — Free bridge lesson and assisted play at Vancouver Bridge Club, 6503 E. Mill Plain Blvd. 9:15–10:30 AM. More info
• Open Saturday at Pearson Field Education Center — Hands-on STEAM education through aviation with flight simulators, a vertical wind table, and historic airplane displays. Free for all ages. 10:00 AM–3:00 PM. More info
• Pop-Up History Museum: Meeting History in Ridgefield — Explore Ridgefield's founding, untold stories of Japanese farmers during WWII, and the organizations shaping the community today. Last day! Free. 10:00 AM at The Greely Building, Ridgefield. More info
• Flora of Battle Ground Lake Hike — Washington State Parks aide Easton Lane leads a one-mile informative plant hike. Free; Discover Pass required to park. 10:00–11:30 AM at Battle Ground Lake State Park. More info
• Matcha Set Workshop at Kilnfolk — Create a ceramic matcha bowl and whisk holder while sipping matcha from Short and Sweet. No experience needed. 10:00 AM–12:00 PM at Kilnfolk Clay Studio, Vancouver. $85. More info
• WNPS Plant Hike in the Gorge — Join Steve Clark of the Washington Native Plant Society to look for rare native plants on a gentle 1.5-mile uphill hike near Carson, WA. 11:00 AM at the Wind River Arboretum. More info
• End of Summer Fun at Tesla Vancouver — Games, activities, prizes, treats, vehicle exploration, and a dunk tank. Accepting unused school supply donations. Free. 11:00 AM–2:00 PM at Tesla Vancouver. More info
• La Center Historical Museum — Free admission at this volunteer-run museum. Open 12:00–4:00 PM on the first and third Saturdays. La Center. More info
• Bi-Zi Farms Sunflower Festival — Take photos among beautiful sunflowers, enjoy hayrides, and visit farm animals. Every paid entry includes one cut sunflower. 12:00–8:00 PM at Bi-Zi Farms, Vancouver. $12. More info
• On the Move: Incredible Animal Journeys — Drop-in program for ages 5–12 exploring migrations of birds, butterflies, dragonflies, and more. Free; no registration required. 1:00–2:00 PM at the Water Resources Education Center, Vancouver. More info
• Chinese Storytelling and Crafting — Storyteller Kenny Chen brings traditional Chinese stories to life, followed by a family craft. Free. 2:00–3:30 PM at Cascade Park Community Library, Vancouver. More info
• Mushroom Hunting for Beginners — A free Fort Vancouver Regional Library workshop covering skills and tools for accurate mushroom identification. No registration required. 2:00 PM. More info
• Concert on the Patio at Bookish — Family Rhythms hosts a free family concert with covers the whole family will love, on the lakeside patio at Bookish in Camas. 5:00 PM. More info
• Candlelight: The Lord of the Rings — A string quartet tribute to the film trilogy's unforgettable score, performed by candlelight. 6:30 PM at The Old Church Concert Hall, Portland. $44.50–$78. More info
• VanCity Saturday Social Dance and Beginners Lesson — A 45-minute lesson at 7:00 PM followed by social dancing until 10:00 PM. No partner or experience needed. VanCity Ballroom, Hazel Dell. $10. More info
• Saturday Karaoke Night at Pour Choices Pub — Let your inner entertainer shine at 1919 Main Street, Vancouver. 8:30 PM. More info

Sunday, September 6

• Timberline Daydream Mountain Bike Event — Three timed downhill runs with lift service at Timberline. OBRA membership required. Registration opens 6:30 AM, racing at 8:00 AM. $70 adults, $35 juniors. More info
• Kids Throw Free at Firehouse Axes — Up to two kids ages 10–17 throw free with each paying adult. Closed-toe shoes required (or rent their crocs). Reservations recommended. 11:00 AM at Firehouse Axes, Vancouver. More info
• Autumn Pumpkins Workshop — Craft ceramic pumpkins using the pinch pot method at Kilnfolk Clay Studio, Vancouver. Family-friendly for ages 5 and up. No experience needed. 3:30–5:00 PM. $55. More info
• Richie Jen: Miracle Concert 2026 — One of Mandopop's most beloved stars brings his "Miracle" world tour to The Cowlitz Ballroom, Ridgefield. 8:00 PM. More info

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