📰 What's Making News

Seton Catholic Baseball Rolls Into 1A State Semis

What a day for the Seton Catholic Cougars. Kolten Gesser pitched a complete-game two-hitter and Graham Dumas went 2-for-2 with a triple and three RBIs as Seton Catholic beat Rochester 9-2 at Whitworth University in Spokane on Saturday, punching their ticket to the 1A state semifinals. If you've been following this squad all spring, you know the bats have been alive — and the pitching just keeps showing up when it matters. Full recap from The Columbian.

Columbia River's Rapids Charge Into Boys Soccer Final Four

Columbia River's boys soccer team posted a 2-0 shutout on Saturday to advance to their sixth state semifinal since 2018 — and this Rapids squad (18-2-1) doesn't look like they're slowing down. They'll face either Squalicum of Bellingham or Hockinson in next Friday's semifinal in Federal Way. That's a whole lot of winning soccer happening right here in Clark County. Read more about the win.

Lucas Walburn Wraps Stellar Tennis Career With State Runner-Up Finish

Columbia River senior Lucas Walburn capped his high school tennis career with a second-place finish at the state tournament in Seattle on Saturday. A second state title wasn't in the cards this time, but Walburn described his prep career as "second to none" — and it's hard to argue with that kind of run. Vancouver should be proud of this one. See the full story.

Seton Catholic Softball Falls in 1A Title Game, Leaves With Heads High

The Seton Catholic softball team came into this season wanting to get tougher — and they proved it all the way to the 1A state championship game on Saturday. Montesano took the title with an 8-0 win, but don't let the final score fool you: this Cougars squad earned every bit of that stage. Making a state title game is no small feat, and this team showed the grit they set out to build. Read The Columbian's recap.

Your Weekend Weeding Problem, Solved With Mulch

If you spent part of this gorgeous weekend yanking weeds from your flower beds and questioning your life choices, Allen from The Columbian's gardening column has your back. His latest piece breaks down exactly how mulch and bark dust can dramatically cut your weeding time — and when to apply them for the best results this season. It's the kind of practical, dirt-under-your-fingernails advice that actually saves you hours. Get the tips here.

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⚡ Quick Bites

Seton Catholic's Maggie Kender Strikes Out 14, Punches Ticket to State Title Game

Seton Catholic rallied for four runs in the fourth inning to beat Cedar Park Christian 6-2 in Saturday's Class 1A state softball semifinal at Columbia Playfields. Pitcher Maggie Kender dominated on the mound with 14 strikeouts, sending the Cougars to the championship game. Full story from The Columbian.

WSU Vancouver Faces 15% Budget Cut in Fiscal Year 2027

Washington State University Vancouver will absorb a 15 percent budget reduction next fiscal year as part of an $11.7 million cut spread across WSU's six campuses. The details of how the Vancouver campus will adjust are still taking shape. Read more from The Columbian.

Al & Ernie's Bakery Draws Crowds to Downtown Battle Ground

A new feature story explores how Al & Ernie's Bakery has quickly become a gathering spot in downtown Battle Ground, pulling in families, young adults, and business folks alike. The piece digs into the intersection of community, commerce, and faith fueling the town's growth. Read the full story from The Columbian.

CRESA Shares Disaster-Prep Tips Every Clark County Household Needs

Vancouver resident Donna Ellis, 70, knows firsthand what disaster chaos feels like — and CRESA (Clark Regional Emergency Services Agency) is using stories like hers to encourage local families to build emergency kits and plans now. Get the tips from The Columbian.

Two Bison Calves Arrive at Northwest Trek Wildlife Park

Northwest Trek Wildlife Park near Eatonville welcomed two American bison calves born within a week of each other — a perfect excuse for a day trip this holiday weekend. See more from The Columbian.

Walk-Off Grand Slam Wins Mark Morris the 2A State Softball Crown

Shyanne Sellers crushed a grand slam in the bottom of the seventh inning Saturday to lift Mark Morris to a 9-5 win over W.F. West and the Class 2A state championship. It doesn't get more dramatic than a walk-off slam for the title. Full recap from The Columbian.

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📅 Mark Your Calendar

Sunday, May 24

• Ridgefield Bachelor Island Circumnavigation Kayak Tour – 9:00 AM at Ridgefield. A 10-mile paddle around Bachelor Island on the Columbia River Water Trail with Alder Creek's Ridgefield team. Expect birds, wildlife, and stunning waterway scenery. More info
• Downtown Vancouver Market – 10:00 AM at 8th & Esther St., Vancouver. Our year-round flagship farmers market next to Esther Short Park — Sunday hours run 10 AM to 3 PM through October. More info
• NWCT Presents: Mad Hatters Tea Party – 10:00 AM at The Judy, Portland. An interactive extravaganza of music, magic, and tea — costumes and tea-party attire encouraged! Best for ages 4 and up. $20–$25. More info
• Classic 7 MX Series Event – 10:00 AM at Washougal MX Park, Washougal. A full day of motocross racing action. Sunday-only general admission is $20/person. More info
• NW Trail Sisters' Women's Beginner Ride – 10:00 AM at Gateway Green, Portland. A chill, guided mountain bike ride for beginners — ride at your own pace, learn from others, and maybe find a new riding buddy. More info
• Northwest Children's Theater Presents: Into the Woods – 11:00 AM at Northwest Children's Theater, Portland. NWCT's Youth Company performs the beloved Sondheim musical full of fairy-tale twists, humor, and heart. $10–$15. More info
• Metropolitan Performing Arts Presents: Footloose – 2:00 PM at Metropolitan Performing Arts, Vancouver. The heartfelt story of Ren taking on a small-town dancing ban — right here in Vancouver. $30. More info
• Milagro Presents: Brown Face – 2:00 PM at Milagro Theatre, Portland. A world premiere by Carissa Atallah. Every performance opens with a 15-minute open-mic slam prologue. Suitable for ages 13+. $22–$30. More info
• The Music of John Williams – 2:00 PM at Arlene Schnitzer Concert Hall, Portland. The Oregon Symphony performs fan-favorite scores from Jurassic Park, E.T., Harry Potter, and more. $35–$145. More info
• Columbia Dance Spring Performance – 2:00 PM at Skyview Concert Hall, Vancouver. Columbia Dance students take the stage for their spring showcase — the 2 PM show features the studio's youngest dancers (approx. 1 hour). $15. More info
• Columbia Dance Spring Showcase (5 PM show) – 5:00 PM at Skyview Concert Hall, Vancouver. The evening performance features intermediate and advanced students in classical ballet, jazz, and modern pieces (approx. 90 minutes). $15–$20. More info
• Garden Gnomes Workshop – 3:30 PM at Kilnfolk Clay Studio, Vancouver. Create a ceramic gnome using the pinch pot method — add hair, hats, flowers, mushrooms, and button noses. Ages 8+. $65. More info
• Healthy Kids Run Series – Spring 2026 – 4:00 PM at Pacific Community Park, Vancouver. A five-week running series for kids ages 2–14 with divisions from 50-yard dashes to longer distances. Trophies for top finishers and medals for all on week five. More info
• Stars on Ice – 4:00 PM at Veterans Memorial Coliseum, Portland. Olympic champion Alysa Liu headlines alongside Madison Chock & Evan Bates and Ilia Malinin in the 2026 Stifel Stars on Ice tour. $79. More info

Monday, May 25

• Federal Public Lands Fee Free Day – Memorial Day – All day. No entrance fees at federal public lands nationwide in honor of Memorial Day. A perfect excuse to explore! More info
• CMAC Memorial Day Event – 9:30 AM at Fort Vancouver Parade Grounds, Vancouver. Flag raising at 9:30 AM, ceremony at 10 AM. Hot dogs and snacks follow. A community day of remembrance and appreciation. Free. More info
• Audiobook Walking Club – 9:30 AM, hosted by Camas Public Library. Bring your own audiobook and join a 60-minute walk at a different outdoor location each month, followed by optional social time. Free. More info
• Memorial Day Remembrance Ceremony at Fort Vancouver – 9:30 AM at Fort Vancouver Parade Grounds, Vancouver. Presented by the Community Military Appreciation Committee in partnership with the National Park Service, the city of Vancouver, and The Historic Trust. Free. More info
• Tiny Toppings Storytime and Ice Cream in Ridgefield – 11:00 AM. Storytime at Copperbell Bookstore followed by ice cream at Eight Cow Creamery — buy a scoop and get a free kid scoop! Perfect for pre-K littles. More info
• Memorial Day – American Legion Smith-Reynolds Family – 11:00 AM at American Legion Smith-Reynolds Post 14, Vancouver. Music, taps, a wreath-laying, and participation from Troop #320. Cookies, coffee, and punch served. The public is invited. Free. More info
• Ridgefield Art Association Monthly Meeting – 5:00 PM at the TMI Building, 101 Mill St., Ridgefield. Everyone is welcome. Free. More info

Tuesday, May 26

• Southwest Washington Watercolor Society Spring Exhibit – 10:00 AM at The Arts Centered, Vancouver. Featuring the work of over 40 regional artists, judged by award-winning watercolorist Tess Myers. More info
• Pairs and Spares Seniors at Red Robin – 12:00 PM at Red Robin, Vancouver Mall Drive, Vancouver. A social lunch outing for seniors. More info
• Shut Up & Write! Writers Group – 5:15 PM at Vancouver Arts Hub, Vancouver. Co-working for writers of all experience levels — focused writing time followed by optional chat. Free. 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. This presentation offers clues and historical context for researchers in African American genealogy. Members and guests welcome. Free. More info

Wednesday, May 27

• TOPS 1056 – 8:15 AM at Fourth Plain Nazarene Church, Vancouver. Weigh-in from 8:15–9:15 AM, meeting from 9:30–10:30 AM. More info
• Enhance Fitness Classes – 8:30 AM and 10:00 AM at Bethel Lutheran Church, Brush Prairie. Evidence-based group exercise for adults 60+ hosted by the Area Agency on Aging and Disabilities of SW Washington. More info
• Free Financial Planning Day – 9:00 AM–6:00 PM at Johnson Bixby, Vancouver. Complimentary one-on-one 30-minute sessions with a certified financial planner — in person or on Zoom. Free. More info
• Marshall House Tours – 10:00 AM–2:00 PM at Marshall House, Fort Vancouver National Historic Site, Vancouver. Free tours featuring period furnishings, military memorabilia, and General George C. Marshall's study. More info
• Providence Academy Tours – 10:00 AM–2:00 PM at Providence Academy, Vancouver. Walk-in or reserve a tour of this historic building. Free. More info
• Wednesday Wanders – 10:00 AM at the Water Resources Education Center, Vancouver. A guided nature walk exploring Columbia River ecosystems and adjacent wetlands. Great for families with kids ages 6+. Registration required. Free. 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. Free. More info
• Pairs and Spares Seniors at Makoto Japanese Buffet – 11:30 AM at Makoto Japanese Buffet, Vancouver. A social lunch outing for seniors. 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 sing-alongs from noon to 2 PM. Free. More info
• Contemplative Prayer – 12:20 PM at St. Paul Lutheran Church, Vancouver. A quiet midday service with contemplative 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 this free, open-to-anyone song circle. More info
• NEW Silver Trails Community Walk – 2:00 PM at Orchards Park, Vancouver. The Parks Foundation of Clark County, Community in Motion, and Vancouver Parks launch this new walking program for adults 65+ — 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, technology, engineering, and math activities for ages 5–12. Free. More info
• Seeds to Salmon Educator Curriculum Workshop – Part 1 – 4:30 PM. For WA State certificated educators — earn 5 STEM Clock Hours through this free two-session workshop from the Lower Columbia Fish Enhancement Group. More info
• Live Music at The Grant House – 5:00 PM at The Grant House (Willful Wine), 1101 Officers Row, Vancouver. Solo musicians perform 5–7 PM every Wednesday. Free. More info
• Fort Vancouver Kiwanis – 5:30 PM at Brothers Cascadia Evergreen Pub, Vancouver. The fourth-Wednesday evening meeting features a presentation by a local speaker. More info
• Poetry Street PNW – 6:00 PM at Camas Public Library, Camas. An open-mic night where every voice is heard — read your original or favorite work and enjoy monthly featured poets. All ages welcome. Free. More info
• Swing Dancing at The Valiant Ballroom – 6:00 PM at The Valiant Ballroom, Vancouver. Beginner lesson at 7 PM, intermediate at 6 PM, social dance 8–9:30 PM. Singles, partners, and groups all welcome. $5–$10. More info

Thursday, May 28

• Advanced Competitive Bridge Bidding – 10:00 AM at Vancouver Bridge Club, Vancouver. Instructed by Michael Walker, a Ruby Life Master. $10–$50. More info
• Vancouver Quilt Club – 11:00 AM and 6:00 PM at Craft Warehouse, Hazel Dell. See new fabrics, notions, and quilting books — bring a current project and swap inspiration. All skill levels welcome. Free. More info
• General Federation of Women's Clubs Meeting – 2:00 PM at Prince of Peace Lutheran Church, Battle Ground. Social time, a presentation by Dustin Waliezer from Fire District 3, plus community service project updates. More info
• Preschool Flower Shop – 3:00 PM at Camas Public Library, Camas. Little ones 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. Build with LEGO bricks, blocks, boxes, and more — for ages 5–12. Free. More info
• National Burger Day Celebration – 4:00 PM at Bless Your Heart Burgers, Vancouver. A free classic single burger for everyone from 4–9 PM, plus merch giveaways, a DJ, and raffle prizes. Free. More info
• Library Trivia Nights – 5:00 PM at Vancouver Community Library. Play solo or on a team, enjoy refreshments, and make new friends. Family-friendly. Free. More info
• Oak Gall Ink Making Workshop – 5:00 PM at 105 E. Jewett Blvd., White Salmon. Local artist Molly Holmlund leads a hands-on workshop making ink from oak galls and other natural ingredients as part of the White Salmon Wildflower Festival. $50, ages 12+. More info
• Understory: NW Film Festival – 5:30 PM doors, 6:30 PM show at Kiggins Theatre, Vancouver. Cascade Forest Conservancy hosts a night of films celebrating adventure, conservation, and our connection to the natural world. Featuring 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, Ridgefield. Cheer on Clark County's hometown baseball team! More info
• Line Dancing Lessons – 7:00 PM at Ashwood Taps and Trucks, Washougal. Line dancing with instructor Kat Nichols — beginners welcome, all ages. $10. More info

Friday, May 29

• Homeschool Open House at Pomeroy Farm – 9:00 AM at Pomeroy Farm, Yacolt. The theme is "Children's Work & Play on a Pre-Electric Farm" for grades 2–5. Groups under 20 welcome; arrive between 9 AM and noon. $8. More info
• Ridgefield – Learn to Kayak Tour – 9:00 AM at Ridgefield Waterfront Park. Paddle the winding waterways of the Columbia River Water Trail near the Ridgefield National Wildlife Refuge with Alder Creek Kayak & Canoe. More info
• Volunteer Clean-Up at Countryside Park – 10:00 AM at Countryside Park, Vancouver. Pick up litter and remove invasive plants — training, gloves, tools, water, and snacks provided. Free. More info
• Flora & Fauna Friday at Countryside Park – 10:00 AM at Countryside Park, Vancouver. A work party from the City of Vancouver's Volunteer Programs and Naturespaces — hands-on service supporting local ecosystems. More info
• 2026 Columbia Credit Union Tour of Homes: New & Remodeled – 11:00 AM at various locations. Tour beautifully finished projects by Clark County's top builders and remodelers, ask questions, and see the latest trends. More info
• Paint, Sip and Celebrate the Stars and Stripes – 11:00 AM at Founders Coffee and Mercantile, Battle Ground. A July 4-themed watercolor painting experience with picnic boxes and Firecracker Fizz sparkling lemonade. $60 includes Emily Lex's Americana watercolor book. 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 to 1 PM. More info
• Tween & Teen Tabletop Role-Playing Game Adventure – 4:30 PM at Ridgefield Community Library, Ridgefield. Create a character and play Pathfinder 1E with other players ages 9–19. Free. More info
• Family and Friends Friday Climb – 5:00 PM at Firstenburg Community Center, Vancouver. An hour and 45 minutes of unlimited climbing for ages 4+ — multiple difficulty levels, no experience necessary, all equipment provided. $33–$41. More info
• Community Dragon Boat Paddle – 5:30 PM at Ridgefield Public Boat Launch, Ridgefield. Try dragon boat paddling for free — no experience needed, equipment provided. Ages 14+. More info
• Journey Theater Presents: Seussical – 7:00 PM at Manor Church, Battle Ground. The Cat in the Hat narrates Horton's double quest to save the Whos and guard an abandoned egg in this colorful musical for young audiences. $16–$18. More info
• God of Carnage by Starbird Theatre – 7:30 PM at The Sherman Auditorium, Vancouver. A Tony Award-winning dark comedy by Yasmina Reza, directed by Jay Hash and starring Mary Reischmann, David Yake, Julia Archer, and Nathan Wright. 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 painter, and more — all proceeds support free and low-cost mental health services for new and expecting families. More info
• Veterans' Trail Work Party at Whistle Punk – 8:30 AM. A WTA work party tailored for veterans and service members — build camaraderie while maintaining hiking trails. More info
• 3rd Annual Coyote-palooza! – 8:30 AM in Portland. A family- and pet-friendly event featuring booths on coyote biology, hands-on activities for adults and kids, and tips for keeping pets safe. More info
• Hockinson Fun Days – 9:00 AM at Hockinson Community Center, Brush Prairie. A hometown parade, carnival, vendor bazaar, and Fire District 3's pancake breakfast — festivities run until 3:30 PM. Free. More info
• Move With MADD Vancouver – 9:00 AM at Frenchman's Bar Park, Vancouver. A walk/run fundraiser to support safer roads, featuring a ceremony and community celebration. $35. More info
• Stewardship Saturday at Columbia Springs – 9:00 AM at Columbia Springs, Vancouver. Remove invasive species, maintain trails, and improve site accessibility. Tools, gloves, and guidance provided. More info
• Secret Spaces Tour: Post Hospital – 9:00 AM. The Historic Trust brings back Secret Spaces Tours for Preservation Month — step inside the 1903 Post Hospital and see original structural features, including one of the nation's first purpose-built x-ray rooms. $35. More info
• Girls on the Run End of Season 5K – 9:00 AM in Portland. A celebratory 5K for all Girls on the Run program participants — volunteers welcome too. More info
• Portland Rose Festival – 9:00 AM in Portland. The beloved annual tradition kicks off — head across the river and soak in the festivities. More info
• Weave a Willow Market Basket – 9:00 AM in Ridgefield. A two-day class with Ridgefield artist Robin Brady — learn traditional European stake-and-strand basketry using locally grown willows. More info
• Seeds to Salmon Educator Curriculum Workshop – Part 2 – 9:00 AM. The second session for WA State educators earning 5 STEM Clock Hours. More info
• Birds and Blooms of Burnt Bridge Creek – 9:30 AM along Burnt Bridge Creek, Vancouver. City staff lead a springtime walk to identify flowering native plants and listen for migrating songbirds. For adults and families with youth ages 8+. Registration required. More info
• Bookmark Contest Celebration – 10:00 AM at Three Creeks Community Library, Vancouver (also at 3 PM). Reveal branch winners, grab a new bookmark, 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 at Pearson Field Education Center, Vancouver. Flight simulators, a vertical wind table, historic airplanes, and hands-on STEAM exploration. Free. More info
• 2026 Multicultural Resource Fair – 10:00 AM in Vancouver. Performances, cultural demonstrations, and connections with nonprofit organizations and community partners. More info
• Hiking Clinic – NW Association of Blind Athletes – 12:00 PM. A hiking clinic for athletes who are blind or visually impaired — all ages and ability levels welcome. More info
• Cedar Creek Grist Mill Bread Day – 1:00 PM at Cedar Creek Grist Mill, Woodland. Watch volunteers work this historic water-powered mill, enjoy fresh-milled flour demonstrations, and take home some good eats. 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 her handler JW Jones for the launch of their beautifully illustrated true story — perfect for children of all ages. More info

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