📰 What's Making News

Ridgefield's $50 Million Rec Center Dream Inches Closer

A new feasibility report says the city of Ridgefield can realistically raise up to $50 million for its long-planned community and recreation center. That's a big number for a fast-growing city that's been talking about this project for years — and it finally puts a concrete figure on what's possible. If you've been watching Ridgefield's transformation from small town to one of Clark County's hottest zip codes, this is the kind of investment that signals a community building for the long haul. Full story from The Columbian.

Clark County Auto License Office Closed Until July 7

Heads up if you need to handle anything in person at Clark County Auto License on Franklin Street: the office is closed for renovations and won't reopen until Tuesday, July 7. Online and email services are still available, and you can also visit subagent locations around the county for in-person transactions. Worth bookmarking if you've got tabs, titles, or renewals on your to-do list this week. Details at Clark County Today.

Ham Radio Operators Invite You to Field Day in Camas

The Clark County Amateur Radio Club is hosting its annual Field Day event in Camas, and the public is welcome to come see what amateur radio is all about. It might sound old-school, but ham radio remains one of the most reliable ways to communicate when disasters knock out cell towers, landlines, and internet. The club sets up portable stations and makes as many contacts as possible in a 24-hour window — part competition, part community service demo. It's a genuinely fun, nerdy, neighbor-meets-neighbor kind of outing. Read more at The Columbian.

JT Summers Powers Raptors Past Bend, 9-3

The Ridgefield Raptors snapped a two-game skid Wednesday night with a convincing 9-3 win over the Bend Elks. JT Summers set the tone early with a two-run home run in the first inning, and the offense never looked back. Summer-league baseball at the Ridgefield Outdoor Recreation Complex is one of Clark County's best-kept secrets — affordable, family-friendly, and the kind of evening where you actually put your phone down. Recap from The Columbian.

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💬 Community Buzz

Grays Harbor County Fair Returns July 29 With Funnel Cakes, 4-H, Live Music

Planning a summer road trip? The 2026 Grays Harbor County Fair runs July 29 through August 1 at the Grays Harbor Fairgrounds in Elma — about a two-and-a-half-hour drive from Vancouver and a solid excuse for an overnight getaway. The lineup promises 4-H livestock shows, carnival rides, live bands, kids' activities, and yes, a mosh pit (you read that right). Funnel cake alone might be worth the drive, but the full fair experience makes it a genuine summer highlight for families willing to venture beyond Clark County. Get the full details at ClarkCoTalk.

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⚡ Quick Bites

I-5 to I-205 Ramp Closes This Weekend for Paving

Heads up if you're heading south: the ramp from southbound I-5 to southbound I-205 at Exit 7 shuts down Friday night through Sunday morning while crews from Kerr Contractors tackle paving work. Plan an alternate route — WSDOT has full detour details here.

Camas Schools Tap Helen Leedom for Student Services Role

Helen Leedom starts July 1 as the Camas School District's new assistant director of student services, bringing school psychology and special education leadership experience from prior roles at Evergreen Public Schools and Corbett School District. Read more about her background.

Free Rock Painting Nights Could Come to Vancouver Libraries

The Gentle Strength Project — known for its community mental health events for men — is gauging interest in rock painting nights open to other folks, likely at a Vancouver library in July and August. If that sounds like your kind of weeknight, chime in on the Reddit thread.

Micah Nori Named Blazers Head Coach

Portland Trail Blazers fans in the 'Couv have a new name to learn: Micah Nori, who says the team will "play hard, smart, and together." He'd been a runner-up for multiple NBA head coaching jobs before Portland gave him the top spot. Here's the full story.

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📅 Mark Your Calendar

Friday, June 26

• Big Smoke BBQ, Brew & Music Festival – Kick off a three-day celebration of BBQ, live music, and craft vendors featuring The Fretliners and special guest Chris Couch. June 26–28 at Haydu Park, Kalama. More info
• PCTA Trail Work Project @ Mt. Adams – William's Mine – 8:00 AM. Join the Mount Hood Chapter for a crosscut logout and brushing project on the Pacific Crest Trail. Registration required; max 12 volunteers. More info
• PCTA Trail Work Project @ Mt. Adams – Grand Meadows – 8:00 AM. Another PCT crosscut logout opportunity starting where the trail crosses Road 88 and heading north. Registration required; max 12 volunteers. More info
• Tigard Festival of Balloons (Road Trip) – 8:00 AM. Hot air balloon morning launches, the spectacular NW Natural Night Glow at sunset, live entertainment, and family fun across three days in Tigard, OR. More info
• 2026 Cascadia Dirt Cup – Mountain Bike Racing – 8:00 AM. Round 3 of the Cascadia Dirt Cup at Yacolt Burn featuring trails like Thrillium and Cold Creek. More info
• Enhance Fitness Classes – 8:30 AM. Free group exercise for adults 60+ at Bethel Lutheran Church in Brush Prairie. Sessions at 8:30 AM and 10:00 AM on Wednesdays and Fridays. More info
• SW WA Victory Garden Work Party – 9:00 AM. Spend your Friday morning volunteering with Urban Abundance at the SWWA Victory Garden — great people, fresh air, and a good cause. More info
• Beginner Surf Open Surf – Women Only (Road Trip) – 9:00 AM–12:00 PM. Free open surf session at Short Sands Beach near Oswald West State Park. Bring your own board and wetsuit. Hosted by Babes on Waves. More info
• Ridgefield Learn to Kayak Tour – 9:00 AM. Paddle the Columbia River Water Trail near Ridgefield National Wildlife Refuge with Alder Creek Kayak & Canoe. All experience levels welcome. Ridgefield Waterfront Park. More info
• Adult & Teen Craft and Chat – 10:00 AM–12:00 PM. Bring your current craft project for a no-stakes session at La Center Community Library. Ages 13+. Free. More info
• Marshall House Tour – 10:00 AM–2:00 PM. Free 30-minute guided tours of the historic Marshall House in Vancouver. Book your time online. More info
• Summer Craft & Play with Drip Drop Art Studio – 10:00 AM. Maker Station fun for kids 5+ with recyclables, pom poms, wood items, and more at Drip Drop Art Studio in Vancouver. $18. More info
• Drip Drop Art Craft & Play – 10:00 AM. Sensory bins and art projects for ages 1–5 (plus Maker Station add-on for ages 5+) at Drip Drop Art Studio in Vancouver. $24. More info
• Marshall Park CHAMPS Playground Cleanup – 10:00 AM–12:00 PM. Volunteer to spruce up the inclusive CHAMPS playground at Marshall Park. Advance registration required. More info
• 60+ Senior Community Meal Program – 12:00 PM–1:00 PM. Free lunch for low-income seniors age 60+ at Calvary Chapel Vancouver, sponsored by the 5&2 Food Pantry. More info
• NAMI Art Group – 1:00–3:00 PM. Free weekly art group at the NAMI Southwest Washington office in Vancouver. More info
• Pairs and Spares Seniors at Vancouver Station – 1:00 PM. Seniors group meets for lunch at Vancouver Station Food Carts, 1817 SE 164th Ave. More info
• Washougal Community Market – 2:00–6:00 PM. Small businesses, artisans, authors, musicians, bakers, and food vendors at Reflection Plaza in Washougal. Free admission. More info
• Teen DIY: Clay Diffuser Discs – 2:00–3:30 PM. Teens in grades 6–12 create essential oil diffusers using air-dry clay at Camas Public Library. Free; registration required. More info
• Family Adventure Camp at Mt. St. Helens – 3:00 PM. Explore the volcanic landscape with the whole family — scenic trails, art, and hands-on experiences at the Mount St. Helens Science and Learning Center. $275. More info
• Kids Create – 3:30–4:30 PM. Drop-in creative projects for ages 5–9 at Washougal Community Library. Free. More info
• Tween Hangout at Vancouver Community Library – 4:00–5:30 PM. Games, crafts, chatting, and snacks for ages 9–12. Free. More info
• Alderbrook Park Cruise-In – 4:00–8:00 PM. Classic cars, disc golf, train rides, mini golf, bounce houses, pool, and more at Alderbrook Park in Brush Prairie. $5–$10. More info
• Free Hollywood Bowl Watch Party at Alderbrook Park – Gates open at 4:00 PM; watch party at 7:00 PM. Free community screening of The Tabernacle Choir's Songs of Hope Benefit Concert from the Hollywood Bowl. Enjoy park attractions beforehand. Brush Prairie. More info
• ZooNights at Oregon Zoo – 5:00 PM. Live music, food carts, keeper chats, animal encounters, elephant ears, and local beer and wine for adults. $13–$26. More info
• Community Dragon Boat Paddle – 5:30 PM. Free dragon boat paddling for ages 14+ at Ridgefield Public Boat Launch. No experience needed; equipment provided. More info
• Historic Trust Summer Concert Series: Michael John – 5:30–8:30 PM. Yacht rock entertainer Michael John performs on the lawn at the O.O. Howard House in Vancouver. Free; food trucks and beer garden on site. Bring chairs or blankets. More info
• Schoolhouse Rock Live! Jr. – 6:00 PM. Metropolitan Performing Arts' Broadway Jr. class presents the beloved musical at 6403 E Mill Plain Blvd, Vancouver. $10–$18. More info
• English Country Line Dancing – 6:30 PM. All experience levels welcome at Fern Prairie Grange in Camas. Every dance is walked through first. $5 per person or $10 per family. More info
• Ridgefield Raptors Baseball – 6:30 PM. Catch Clark County's hometown team at the Ridgefield Outdoor Recreation Complex. More info
• Northwest Personal Training: Active Longevity – 6:45–7:45 PM. Doctor of Physical Therapy Trent Corey shares keys to active longevity at 1011 Broadway, Vancouver. Free. More info
• Live Music on the Patio at Farrar's Bistro – 7:00 PM. Enjoy food, cocktails, local wine, and live performances on the pet-friendly patio at 12514 NW 36th Ave, Vancouver. More info
• Sunset Kayak Paddle – 7:00 PM. A three-hour guided evening paddle with Alder Creek Kayak & Canoe — watch the sunset from the Columbia River and enjoy beach snacks. Ridgefield Waterfront Park. Reservations required. More info
• The Bridges of Madison County – 7:30 PM. Tony Award–winning musical at Magenta Theater in Vancouver. $32. More info
• Pour Choices Pub Summer Concert Series: Braveheart – 7:30 PM. Live music at 1919 Main Street, Vancouver. More info
• Official Vancouver Fan Zone Watch Party – 8:00 PM. FIFA World Cup 26 watch party at Big Al's in Vancouver — massive screens, stadium energy, and community spirit. More info

Saturday, June 27

• Harper's Playground Day of Play – Free celebration of community, inclusion, and play at the CHAMPS playground at Marshall Park, Vancouver. Activities, music, food carts, and games for all. More info
• Mt. St. Helens Summit Climb with MSHI – 6:00 AM. Single-day guided scramble to the summit with professional mountain guides. Designed for novice hikers and experienced mountaineers alike. More info
• 2026 Northwest Book Fair & Media Fest – 9:00 AM. Free, family-friendly festival at Clark College featuring 100+ Pacific Northwest authors, indie publishers, media creators, workshops, live music, and artisan vendors. More info
• Downtown Vancouver Farmers Market – 9:00 AM–3:00 PM. The flagship market next to Esther Short Park in the heart of downtown Vancouver. More info
• Curiosity Kids: Become a Nature Detective – 9:00 AM at OMSI, Portland. Hands-on STEAM challenges for ages 3–5 and their families. $22.50–$30.50. More info
• Free Play at Family Festival – 9:00 AM. Free admission to Topaz Farm in Portland — music, bingo, farm activities, and fun for 2,000+ kids and grown-ups. More info
• Wander Clark County: Historic Downtown Vancouver – Early Tour – 9:00 AM–10:00 AM. Walking tour with CCHM exploring Main Street landmarks including the Evergreen Hotel, Kiggins Theatre, and more. $10 (free for members). More info
• Salmon Creek Trail parkrun – 9:00 AM. Free, fun, friendly weekly 5k at Salmon Creek Greenway Trail in Vancouver. Walk, jog, or run. Register online before your first visit. More info
• Stewardship Saturday at Columbia Springs – 9:00 AM–12:00 PM. Volunteer for invasive species removal, trail maintenance, and site improvements at Columbia Springs in Vancouver. Free. More info
• Great American Campout – 9:00 AM. Part of the National Wildlife Federation's celebration of camping and nature — whether at a national park or your own backyard. More info
• LeRoy Haagen Adopt-A-Park Event – 9:00 AM. Family-friendly stewardship activities with City of Vancouver staff. More info
• Blandford Canyon Trail Work Party with WTA – 9:00 AM. Beginner-friendly half-day trail work right in Vancouver at the Blandford Drive Greenway. More info
• Fairy Fest at Hoyt Arboretum (Road Trip) – 9:30 AM–12:30 PM. Free family celebration at Steven's Pavilion with nature play, face painting, and imagination-driven activities. Portland. More info
• Assisted Bridge: Lesson and Play – 9:15 AM. Free bridge lesson and assisted play at Vancouver Bridge Club, 6503 E Mill Plain Blvd. More info
• Fourth Plain Festival Day – 10:00 AM–1:00 PM at River City Church, then 2:00–4:00 PM Skate Jam at Swift Skate Park. Free family-friendly event with nonprofits, resources, and community connections. More info
• Open Saturday at Pearson Field Education Center – 10:00 AM–3:00 PM. Free STEAM aviation education — flight simulators, historic airplanes, and hands-on exploration in Vancouver. More info
• Angel Ocasio's Comedy, Magic and Stuff – 10:00 AM at the Three Creeks Community Library. Free family show with silly antics, magic, juggling, and audience participation. More info
• Craft Day at the Artillery Barracks – 10:00 AM. Free hands-on crafts for all ages including basketry, origami, and puppet making. Presented by the Historic Trust in Vancouver. More info
• 78th St. Heritage Farm Walking Tours – 10:00 AM. Free guided tour of the 79-acre historic farm in Hazel Dell with Master Gardener docents. More info
• Berry Bowls Workshop at Kilnfolk Clay Studio – 10:00–11:30 AM. Make a ceramic berry bowl in this beginner-friendly class. Ages 8+. $55. 108 W Sixth St, Vancouver. More info
• Mt. St. Helens Stewardship Days with MSHI – 10:00 AM–4:00 PM. Free invasive species removal plus an optional guided Hummocks Trail hike. Ages 10+; registration required. More info
• Summer Native Art Market – 11:00 AM–3:00 PM. More than 20 local Indigenous artists and vendors at Clark County Historical Museum, 1511 Main St, Vancouver. Free. More info
• Learn to Granny Square Crochet – 11:00 AM–1:00 PM. Beginner workshop at Kindred Vancouver, 2213 Main St. All materials included. $45–$60. More info
• Korean War Veterans Remembrance Ceremony – 11:00 AM–12:00 PM at the VA Medical Center, 1601 E Fourth Plain Blvd, Vancouver. Free. More info
• Wander Clark County: Historic Downtown Vancouver – Late Tour – 11:00 AM–12:00 PM. Same great walking tour, later start. $10 (free for CCHM members). More info
• Intro to Bokashi Composting – 11:00 AM at Nature's Haven Nursery, 6403 NE 277th Ave, Camas. Learn this simple, mess-free composting method with Jennifer "Bokashi Jen" Posivak. More info
• Summer Treats at Cedar Creek Grist Mill – Strawberry Shortcake Day – 12:00 PM–4:00 PM. Free whole wheat shortcake topped with ripe local strawberries at the historic water-powered mill in Woodland. More info
• Summer Promenade at Fort Vancouver – 1:00–3:00 PM. A lively parade of 100 years of historic fashion (1845–1945) on the Parade Ground and along Evergreen Boulevard. Free. More info
• William Scofield Gallery: Fiber Plus Opening – 1:00 PM. One-year anniversary celebration and opening of a juried fiber and textile art exhibition running through Aug. 30. Free. Vancouver. More info
• OMSI Wild Weather at FVRL – 2:00 PM. OMSI shares the magic of weather — learn how to track weather and stay safe. Free. More info
• Camas Car Show – 2:00–7:00 PM. Classic and custom cars fill beautiful downtown Camas for the 19th annual show. Free for spectators, with raffles and a dance performance at 5:00 PM. More info
• Tween & Teen Video Game Night – 4:00–6:00 PM. Nintendo Switch gaming, snacks, and socializing at Ridgefield Community Library. Free; no registration required. More info
• As You Like It – 6:00 PM. Metropolitan Performing Arts' 8th annual summer Shakespeare touring show opens at 6403 E Mill Plain Blvd, Vancouver. Free. Musical performances before the show. More info
• Saturdays in the Park: Chasing Ebenezer – 6:00–8:00 PM. World folk-rock at Sternwheeler Park in La Center. Free. More info
• VanCity Ballroom Saturday Social Dance – 7:00 PM. A 45-minute beginner lesson followed by social dancing of all styles until 10:00 PM. No partner needed. $10. Hazel Dell. More info
• Pour Choices Pub Karaoke: 80's Rock Night – 8:30 PM. Belt out arena anthems and power ballads at 1919 Main Street, Vancouver. Dress in your best '80s rock look. More info

Sunday, June 28

• Lincoln City Kite Festival (Road Trip) – 8:00 AM. Huge colorful kites take flight at Chinook Winds Casino Resort in Lincoln City, OR. Free family fun. More info
• Free Outdoor Fitness Bootcamp – 9:00 AM. Full-body workout at scenic Vancouver locations with Northwest Personal Training, 1011 Broadway. All fitness levels welcome. Free. More info
• Mt. St. Helens Eruption Hike with MSHI Geologist – 9:00 AM. Guided nature hike through the hummocks created by the 1980 eruption, then up the Boundary Trail for panoramic views. More info
• Kids Crochet at Hook & Needle – 10:00–11:00 AM. Beginner crochet for ages 10+ at 621 Broadway, Vancouver. Kids create bookmarks and learn foundational stitches. Supplies included. $45. More info
• Edible Plant Walk at Nature's Haven Natives – 10:00 AM. Free guided tour of edible native plants at the nursery in Camas. Registration required. More info
• Adaptive Bike Clinic at Portland Sunday Parkways – 11:00 AM–1:30 PM clinic; 1:30–2:30 PM group ride. Try handcycles, tandems, and tricycles. Free. More info

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