📰 What's Making News

Washougal Lumber Co. Closes Its Doors After 117 Years

One of Washougal's oldest businesses is calling it quits. Washougal Lumber Co., which has been a fixture in the community for more than a century, is shutting down for good. The closure marks the end of a family business that predates statehood-era memories for many East County families. If you've ever built a deck, framed a shed, or grabbed supplies for a weekend project out that way, chances are you've walked those aisles. Read the full story at The Columbian.

Free Summer Meals for Kids Start Next Week Across Clark County

Starting next week, multiple organizations across Clark County will offer free meals for children 18 and under throughout the summer. Programs are tied to Vancouver Public Schools, Evergreen Public Schools, Battle Ground Public Schools, and local nonprofits, so there are pickup spots spread across the county. No paperwork, no income check — just show up. It's one of the most practical resources available to families during the long break, and worth bookmarking even if you just want to share it with a neighbor. Find locations and details at The Columbian.

16 Firefighters Battle Timber Blaze on Remote Columbia River Peninsula

Vancouver Fire Department deployed 16 firefighters — including marine units aboard Fire Boat 1 — to tackle a lumber pile fire on a hard-to-reach peninsula along the Columbia River near Marine Park. The remote location made access a real challenge, requiring both land-based crews and waterside response. Crews successfully contained the blaze before it could spread into surrounding vegetation. It's a good reminder that summer fire season is officially here, even inside city limits. Clark County Today has the details.

Hazel Dell Dad Builds Family-Friendly Taproom, Asks Parents What They Want

A Hazel Dell dad who couldn't find enough spots to take his family launched his own beverage company and taproom — and now he's crowdsourcing ideas from the community. He posted on the Vancouver WA subreddit asking parents one straightforward question: what would make a taproom a "yes" instead of a "no" when the kids are in tow? The thread is full of genuinely useful suggestions, from better food menus to designated kid zones. If you've got opinions on what family-friendly nightlife should look like in Vancouver, this is your chance to shape something local from the ground up. Join the conversation on Reddit.

Raptors' Four-Game Streak Snapped in Bend

The Ridgefield Raptors dropped the opener of their road series against the Bend Elks, falling 9-2 on Monday night. The loss ends a four-game winning streak that had the West Coast League squad riding high heading into the trip. Bend jumped out early and never let up, keeping Ridgefield's bats quiet most of the evening. The Raptors will look to bounce back as the series continues this week. Full recap at The Columbian.

Forward this to one Vancouver friend today — it's how we grow.
Did someone forward you this? Subscribe to this newsletter.

⚡ Quick Bites

Lyle Student Calista Christiansen Heads to National Civics Bee

Calista Christiansen of Lyle won the National Civics Bee Washington state finals and will represent the state at the national championship in Washington, D.C., this fall. Southwest Washington showing up on the big stage. Read more from The Columbian.

Trail Blazers Tap Micah Nori as New Head Coach

The Portland Trail Blazers hired Minnesota Timberwolves assistant Micah Nori as their next head coach. For the many Blazers fans on this side of the river, a new era officially begins. Full story here.

Cole Young's Hometown Homer Lifts Mariners Over Pirates, 3-2

Seattle Mariners infielder Cole Young, a Pittsburgh native, crushed a two-run home run in the seventh inning during his first big-league game in his hometown to clinch a 3-2 win over the Pirates. See the recap.

Bed Bath & Beyond Returns to Washington in Bellevue

The once-shuttered retailer Bed Bath & Beyond reopened its first Washington state location in Bellevue. No word yet on Clark County plans, but the brand is officially back in the Pacific Northwest. Details from The Columbian.

Know a fellow Vancouverite who'd enjoy this? Send them a copy.
Did someone forward you this? Subscribe to this newsletter.

📅 Mark Your Calendar

Wednesday, June 24

• Free Financial Planning Day – 9:00 AM at Johnson Bixby, Vancouver. Get a complimentary 30-minute one-on-one session with a certified financial planner — questions about budgeting, debt, education savings, and more are all fair game. Book a Zoom or in-person slot. More info
• Marshall House Tours – 10:00 AM–2:00 PM at Fort Vancouver National Historic Site, Vancouver. Walk through the beautifully restored Marshall House on Officers Row, featuring period furnishings, military memorabilia, and General George C. Marshall's study. Free; reserve ahead or walk in. More info
• Providence Academy Tours – 10:00 AM–2:00 PM at Providence Academy, Vancouver. Explore one of Vancouver's most iconic historic buildings with a free tour — reservations or small walk-in groups welcome. More info
• Reading in the Wild – 10:00 AM at the Water Resources Education Center, Vancouver. A free outdoor reading series for families with kids ages 3–6. Listen to a story under the trees, then let the little ones explore the native plant garden with hands-on nature play. More info
• Pairs and Spares Seniors Lunch at Makoto Japanese Buffet – 11:30 AM at Makoto Japanese Buffet, 1119 S.E. 163rd Pl., Vancouver. A social lunch gathering for seniors. Call 360-892-8944 for details. More info
• "Little Yellow Journal" Tour stops in Portland – 11:30 AM. Nature Sacred's traveling exhibit celebrates 30 years of those small yellow waterproof journals found along trails and benches — filled with honest, anonymous reflections from visitors. A lovely road-trip outing. More info
• Official Vancouver Fan Zone Watch Party – 12:00 PM at Big Al's, Vancouver. Vancouver, WA is an Official Fan Zone of the FIFA World Cup 26! The Greater Vancouver Chamber, Visit Vancouver WA, and Big Al's are hosting watch parties on massive screens with stadium energy. More info
• HOPE Dementia Support: "Meet Me at the Wildlife Refuge" – 1:30–3:30 PM at Ridgefield National Wildlife Refuge. Enjoy naturalist-led activities to explore nature and spot local wildlife. Free; register on Eventbrite or call 360-513-5754. More info
• Silver Trails Community Walk – 2:00 PM. Parks Foundation of Clark County, Community in Motion, and Vancouver Parks launch this new walking program for adults 65+ featuring easy 1–2 mile walks through beautiful local parks and trails. More info
• Camas Farmers Market – 3:00–7:00 PM in Downtown Camas (temporary location on Birch Street between 3rd and 4th Avenues). Fresh produce, artisan goods, and a celebration of the region's agricultural bounty every Wednesday. More info
• Kids and Tweens STEM Lab – 4:00 PM at Washougal Community Library. Hands-on science, technology, engineering, and math activities for ages 5–12. Free. More info
• Teen and Adult Magic the Gathering Social Club – 4:00–6:00 PM at Cascade Park Community Library, Vancouver. Open game play — decks provided or bring your own. Free. More info
• Teen Magic the Gathering Social Club – 4:00–6:00 PM at Vancouver Community Library. Open play for ages 13–19 — decks provided courtesy of MagiKids.org. Free. More info
• Angel Ocasio's Comedy, Magic and Stuff – 4:30–5:30 PM at Vancouver Community Library. Comedian Angel Ocasio brings silly antics, magic, juggling, and audience participation for a wacky, family-friendly show. Free. More info
• Community Dragon Boat Paddle – 5:30 PM at the Ridgefield Public Boat Launch. Try dragon boat paddling for free — no experience needed, equipment provided. Ages 14+. Runs through October 3. More info
• Women's Advanced Mountain Bike Training – 5:30 PM at Rocky Point (road trip). NW Trails Sisters hosts clinics on riding steeps — braking, body position, and confidence-building led by Brave Endeavors. More info
• Poetry Street PNW Open Mic – 6:00 PM at Camas Public Library (Totem Pole Room). Read your original or favorite work and enjoy monthly featured poets. All ages welcome. Doors at 6:15, readings 6:30–7:45. Free. More info
• Weekly Swing Dancing at The Valiant Ballroom – 6:00 PM at 109 W. Ninth St., Vancouver. Intermediate lesson at 6, beginner lesson at 7, social dance 8–9:30 PM. Singles, partners, and groups welcome. $5–$10. More info
• Nexus Nights at Contrarian's Game Cafe – 6:00 PM at Contrarian's Game Cafe, Vancouver. Three rounds of Swiss-format constructed play for the Riftbound card game — prizes for all participants. More info
• Youth Nature Photography Awards with Vancouver Audubon Society – 6:00 PM at 600 NE 136th Ave., Vancouver. The award ceremony for the 2026 Youth Nature Photo Contest, co-sponsored by VAS and HD Aluminum Prints. Celebrate young photographers capturing urban and wild nature. More info

Thursday, June 25

• PCTA Trail Work Project at Mt. Adams – William's Mine – 8:00 AM in Gifford Pinchot National Forest. Join the Pacific Crest Trail Association's Mount Hood Chapter for crosscut logout, brushing, and drainage work on the PCT. Max 12 volunteers; registration required. More info
• PCTA Trail Work Project at Mt. Adams – Grand Meadows – 8:00 AM in Gifford Pinchot National Forest. A second PCT crew focusing on crosscut logout heading north toward the William's Mine Trailhead. Registration required. More info
• On the Road Tour: Plants and Community, Best Friends Forever – 8:30 AM–4:30 PM, starting at 78th Street Heritage Farm, Vancouver. WSU Extension Master Gardeners lead a bus tour visiting the Heritage Farm, Mabry Corrections Center Garden, Clark Public Utilities native plant gardens, and more. $35. More info
• East Vancouver Farmers Market – 10:00 AM–2:00 PM at Columbia Tech Center, 17701 SE Mill Plain Blvd., Vancouver. Over 50 small businesses offering farm, food, and artisan products. Free parking. More info
• Adopt-A-Park Event at LeRoy Haagen Memorial Park – 10:00 AM, Vancouver. Help beautify the park's natural area by removing invasive plants and spreading mulch. Training, gloves, tools, water, and snacks provided. Family-friendly and great for teens. Free; advance registration required. More info
• Vancouver Lake Community Paddle Trip in the Big Canoes – 10:00 AM at Vancouver Lake. Glide in 29-foot, 14-passenger canoes with the Lower Columbia Estuary Partnership and Vancouver's Water Center. Spot shorebirds, look for beaver activity, and learn about the Columbia River ecosystem. Free. More info
• Advanced Competitive Bridge Bidding – 10:00 AM at Vancouver Bridge Club, 6503 E. Mill Plain Blvd. Michael Walker, Ruby Life Master, teaches opening bids, slam bidding, takeout doubles, and more. $10–$50. More info
• Vancouver Quilt Club – 11:00 AM (and again at 6:00 PM) at Craft Warehouse, 9307 N.E. Fifth Ave., Hazel Dell. See new fabrics, notions, and quilting books — bring a current project and swap inspiration. All skill levels. Free. More info
• St. Francis Circle Annual Luncheon for the Humane Society of SW Washington – 11:30 AM at the Red Cross Building, Vancouver. Current members and anyone considering adding HSSW to their estate plan are welcome to enjoy food and updates on the lifesaving work for pets and families. More info
• Ribbon-Cutting for Sovereign at ilani – 12:00 PM at ilani Casino Resort, 1 Cowlitz Way, Ridgefield. Celebrate the opening of Sovereign, the new Cowlitz Indian Tribe-owned steak, chops, and seafood restaurant replacing the former Michael Jordan's Steak House. Dishes inspired by native ingredients and regional traditions. Free. More info
• Hike with Pacific Peaks Mountain Top Fitness – 3:30–4:30 PM at Lacamas Lake Lodge, Camas. An adaptive fitness program for those with neurodevelopmental differences — group warm-up, a walk along the Heritage Trail, stretching, and shoutouts. Registration and fee required. More info
• DIY Pet Rocks at Camas Public Library – 4:00–5:15 PM. Kids in 1st–5th grade can decorate rocks with paint, accessories, and personality, then take home their new one-of-a-kind companion. Free; registration required. More info
• Teen Hangout – 4:30–6:30 PM at Vancouver Community Library. Games, crafts, chatting, and snacks (courtesy of Friends of Vancouver Community Library) for ages 13–19. Free. More info
• Road Cycling 101 – 5:30 PM. Vancouver Bicycling Club ride leader Charla Burke leads fun Thursday-night group rides exploring trails, neighborhoods, and parks. 5–10 miles at 10 mph on flat terrain — all levels welcome. More info
• Salmon Creek Flyfishers Club Meeting – 6:00 PM at American Legion Post 176, 14011 N.E. 20th Ave., Vancouver. Learn about tying flies and fishing; food available for purchase. More info
• Drawing Wildflowers from Photographs (Online) – 6:30 PM. Washington Native Plant Society hosts botanical artist Crystal Shin for a colored-pencil workshop. Draw beautiful wildflowers from photos and develop your observation skills. More info
• Line Dancing Lessons at Ashwood Taps and Trucks – 7:00–9:00 PM, Washougal. Kat Nichols leads lessons for all ages and skill levels — beginners welcome. $10. More info
• FIFA World Cup Watch Party at Kalama Harbor Lodge – 7:00 PM at Kalama Harbor Lodge, Cove Bar. Catch the action on the big screen with beer, burgers, and tots. All ages welcome. Free. More info
• K-POP Demon Hunters Trivia at Firehouse Axes – 7:00–9:00 PM at Firehouse Axes, Vancouver. Celebrate the one-year anniversary of K-POP Demon Hunters with themed trivia, costumes encouraged, and themed drinks. Sign up online. More info
• Jerry Seinfeld Live – 7:00 PM at the Arlene Schnitzer Concert Hall, Portland. America's premier comedian performs his newest stand-up routine. Tickets from $86.55. More info
• The Bridges of Madison County – 7:30 PM at Magenta Theater, Vancouver. The Tony Award-winning musical based on the best-selling novel — a sweeping romance about the roads we travel and the doors we open. Through June 28. $32. More info

Friday, June 26

• Big Smoke BBQ, Brew, and Music Festival – Haydu Park, Kalama. A three-day festival (June 26–28) featuring top BBQ, live music, and craft vendors. Friday's pre-smoke kick-off concert (21+) features The Fretliners and special guest Chris Couch. More info
• PCTA Trail Work Project at Mt. Adams – Grand Meadows – 8:00 AM in Gifford Pinchot National Forest. Crosscut logout and brushing on the PCT. Max 12 volunteers; registration required. More info
• Tigard Festival of Balloons (Road Trip) – 8:00 AM in Tigard, OR. A three-day celebration with morning hot-air balloon launches, the spectacular NW Natural Night Glow at sunset, live entertainment, and family fun. More info
• Cascadia Dirt Cup Mountain Bike Racing – 8:00 AM at Yacolt Burn. Round 3 of the 2026 series hits some of the PNW's most underrated trails — from white-knuckling Thrillium to the miles-long Cold Creek run. More info
• SW WA Victory Garden Work Party – 9:00 AM. Join Urban Abundance's Friday morning garden shift at the SWWA Victory Garden — good people doing good things outdoors for a great cause. More info
• Beginner Surf Open Surf – Women Only (Road Trip) – 9:00 AM–12:00 PM at Short Sands Beach near Oswald West State Park. Free open surf hosted by Babes on Waves — bring your own board and wetsuit. More info
• Ridgefield Learn to Kayak Tour – 9:00 AM at Ridgefield Waterfront Park. Paddle the winding Columbia River Water Trail near the Ridgefield National Wildlife Refuge with Alder Creek Kayak and Canoe. Spot birds and wildlife along routes once traveled by Native American tribes and Lewis and Clark. More info
• Adult and Teen Craft and Chat – 10:00 AM–12:00 PM at La Center Community Library. Bring your current craft project for a relaxed, no-stakes session. Ages 13+. Free. More info
• Marshall House Tour – 10:00 AM–2:00 PM at Marshall House, Vancouver. Free 30-minute tours of this beautifully restored Officers Row landmark. Reserve a time or walk in. More info
• Summer Craft and Play at Drip Drop Art Studio – 10:00 AM at Drip Drop Art Studio, Vancouver. Art projects and sensory bins for little ones, plus a Maker Station for kids 5+. $18–$24. More info
• Marshall Park CHAMPS Playground Cleanup – 10:00 AM–12:00 PM at Marshall Park, 1069 E. McLoughlin Blvd., Vancouver. Help care for the accessible and inclusive CHAMPS playground — litter cleanup and beautification. Advance registration required. More info
• 60+ Senior Community Meal – 12:00–1:00 PM at Calvary Chapel Vancouver, 6503 E. Mill Plain Blvd. Free lunch for low-income seniors age 60+, sponsored by the 5&2 Food Pantry. More info
• NAMI Art Group – 1:00–3:00 PM at NAMI Southwest Washington, 4201 N.E. 66th Ave., Suite 105, Vancouver. A creative outlet every Friday. Free. More info
• Pairs and Spares Seniors at Vancouver Station Food Carts – 1:00 PM at 1817 S.E. 164th Ave., Vancouver. A social lunch gathering for seniors. Call 360-892-8944 for details. More info
• Washougal Community Market – 2:00–6:00 PM at Reflection Plaza, 1703 Main St., Washougal. Small businesses, artisans, authors, musicians, bakers, and food vendors — plus live music every week. Free. More info
• Teen DIY: Clay Diffuser Discs – 2:00–3:30 PM at Camas Public Library. Teens in grades 6–12 create essential oil diffusers using air-dry clay. All materials provided. Free; register at camaspl.org/claydiscs. More info
• Family Adventure Camp at Mt. St. Helens – 3:00 PM at the Mount St. Helens Science and Learning Center, Toutle. A multi-day family experience with scenic trails, hands-on activities, art, and volcanic landscape exploration. $275. More info
• Kids Create – 3:30–4:30 PM at Washougal Community Library. Drop-in creative projects for ages 5–9 — stretch your imagination and try new artistic skills. 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 at Alderbrook Park, Brush Prairie. Classic cars plus disc golf, train rides, mini golf, bounce houses, a pool, and more. $5–$10 admission. More info
• Free Hollywood Bowl Watch Party at Alderbrook Park – Gates at 4:00 PM, broadcast at 7:00 PM, Brush Prairie. Watch The Tabernacle Choir at Temple Square's Songs of Hope Benefit Concert from the Hollywood Bowl on a big screen — enjoy the park's pool, pedal boats, and more while you wait. Free. More info
• ZooNights at the Oregon Zoo – 5:00 PM, Portland. Summer Friday evenings with live music, food carts, keeper chats, animal encounters, elephant ears, and local beer and wine for adults. $13–$26. More info
• Historic Trust Summer Concert Series: Michael John – 5:30–8:30 PM on the lawn at the O.O. Howard House, 750 Anderson St., Vancouver. Yacht rock artist Michael John performs. Bring lawn chairs or blankets; food trucks and beer garden on site. Free. More info
• Dragon Boat Paddle in Ridgefield – 5:30 PM at Ridgefield Waterfront. Free community paddling — no experience needed, equipment provided. Ages 14+. More info
• Schoolhouse Rock Live! Jr. at Metropolitan Performing Arts – 6:00 PM at 6403 E. Mill Plain Blvd., Vancouver. The Emmy Award-winning cartoon series comes to life on stage in this energetic Broadway Jr. musical. $10–$18. More info
• English Country Line Dancing – 6:30 PM at Fern Prairie Grange, Camas. Fun for all ages and experience levels — every dance is walked through first. $5 per person or $10 per family. More info
• Ridgefield Raptors Baseball – 6:30 PM at the Ridgefield Outdoor Recreation Complex. Cheer on Clark County's hometown team under the lights. More info
• Northwest Personal Training: Active Longevity – 6:45–7:45 PM at 1011 Broadway, Vancouver. Doctor of Physical Therapy Trent Corey shares keys to active longevity — heavy lifting, mindfulness, and targeted movement. Free. More info
• Live Music on the Patio at Farrar's Bistro – 7:00 PM at 12514 N.W. 36th Ave., Vancouver. Enjoy food, cocktails, local wine, and live music on the pet-friendly patio every Friday and Saturday through September. More info
• Sunset Kayak Paddle – 7:00 PM at Ridgefield Waterfront Park. Alder Creek Kayak and Canoe leads a three-hour guided evening paddle north to the Columbia River to watch the sunset and share snacks on the beach. All skill levels; reservations required. More info
• Pour Choices Pub Summer Concert Series: Braveheart – 7:30 PM at 1919 Main Street, Vancouver. Live music, great drinks, and a fantastic Friday night vibe. More info

Know someone who'd love a daily Vancouver dispatch? Forward this their way.
Did someone forward you this? Subscribe to this newsletter.