📰 What's Making News

Xin Ding Dumpling House Takes Over Old Shari's Near Vancouver Mall

If you've been craving hand-folded dumplings and Sichuan heat without crossing the river, your wait is over. Leon Liu and Mindy Chong just opened the third location of Xin Ding Dumpling House in the former Shari's restaurant near Vancouver Mall — and it's their first spot on this side of the Columbia. The couple launched the original in Portland's Chinatown in 2023, followed by a Sellwood location, but Clark County marks a whole new chapter. Consider this your weekend dinner plan sorted. Read more from The Columbian.

84,000-Square-Foot Retail Building Proposed for Ridgefield

Ridgefield keeps growing, and the latest proposal is a big one. MAJ Development Corp. has pitched an 84,000-square-foot retail building — potentially grocery-store-sized — along with a 136-unit housing complex near Pioneer Street. The plans also include coffee kiosks, a car wash, fueling stations, and a drive-thru bank, all clustered around Discovery Drive and Southeast Sixth Way. The project is still in the pre-application conference stage, so there's a long road ahead, but it signals serious commercial investment in one of Clark County's fastest-growing cities. Read more from Clark County Today.

Latest Health Inspection Scores: How Did Your Favorite Spot Do?

Clark County Public Health just released restaurant inspection scores for August 3 through 15, and it's worth a peek before your next meal out. In the county's scoring system, lower is better — a perfect score is 0, and any establishment hitting 100 or more points gets shut down. Whether you're checking up on your go-to lunch counter or just satisfying your curiosity, the full list is public. You can also call Clark County Public Health at 564-397-8428 for details. See the scores at The Columbian.

State Issues Alert on Threats to Water, Sewage Systems

Washington's Department of Ecology is warning cities and agencies statewide — including those here in Clark County — about a nationwide threat targeting public drinking-water and sewage-treatment systems. Details are still emerging, but the alert urges utilities to review their security protocols immediately. It's a good reminder that the infrastructure we rely on every day requires constant vigilance behind the scenes. Read more from The Columbian.

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⚡ Quick Bites

WWII-Era Vessel Hauled From Columbia River After 4 Years Underwater

Salvage crews near Longview are pulling a 110-foot wooden boat, originally built in 1942, off the bottom of the Columbia River this week. The derelict vessel sank near Willow Grove Park four years ago, and removal requires a crane, barge, and commercial dive teams working together. Read more

Private Equity Snaps Up Southwest Washington Roofing Companies

If you've searched for a roofer lately, you've seen how crowded the market is — and now private equity firms are moving in on local roofing businesses across Clark County and the Portland metro area. The Columbian digs into what that consolidation means for homeowners and the trades. Read more

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📅 Mark Your Calendar

Saturday, August 22

• Summit Climb on Mt. St. Helens – 6:00 AM. Embark on a single-day non-technical scramble to the summit with professional mountain guides and certified volunteer climbing stewards — designed for novice hikers and experienced mountaineers alike. More info
• Soroptimist International of Clark County Fundraising Sale – 8:00 AM–4:00 PM at 4704 Rolling Meadows Drive, Washougal. Everything is 50 percent off today! Find furniture, home décor, collectibles and household items. Proceeds support scholarships and career resources for women. More info
• Celebrate National Junior Ranger Day at All NPS Sites – 8:00 AM. No matter your age, you're invited to explore, learn, and protect U.S. National Parks — including Fort Vancouver National Historic Site right here in town. More info
• Downtown Vancouver Farmers Market – 9:00 AM–3:00 PM at Esther Short Park (8th & Esther St.). Our flagship year-round farmers market in the heart of downtown Vancouver. More info
• Curiosity Kids: Sasquatch Science Team at OMSI – 9:00 AM at OMSI, Portland. Curious kids ages 3–5 and their families use their five senses to explore Sasquatch and the environment in this bilingual STEAM program. More info
• Salmon Creek Trail Parkrun – 9:00 AM at 800 NE 117th St., Vancouver. A free, friendly weekly 5K — walk, jog, run, volunteer, or spectate. Dogs welcome. First-timer orientation at 8:50 AM. Register at parkrun.us for your barcode. More info
• Cedars North W58 Fly-In and Car Show – 9:00 AM–4:00 PM at Cedars North Airpark, Battle Ground. Classic cars, exotic vehicles, motorcycles, airplanes, and helicopters in a family-friendly setting. Free admission. More info
• Wander Clark County: Historic Old Town Ridgefield – Early Tour – 9:00 AM at Overlook Park, Ridgefield. Step into Ridgefield's past exploring landmarks like the Ridgefield Hardware Store, Union Ridge Presbyterian Church, and the historic Liberty Theater. $10. More info
• Willamette RiverFest – 9:00 AM at River House Beach, Eugene. A road trip–worthy day along the Willamette with a Paddle Parade, paddlecraft demos, river competitions, and guided rafting trips. More info
• Frenchman's Bar Beach Cleanup – 9:00 AM at 9612 NW Lower River Road. Join Clark County Public Works for a litter pickup at Frenchman's Bar Regional Park. All tools provided — just wear closed-toe shoes and dress for the weather. More info
• Sunflower Maze Kickoff Weekend at Topaz Farm – 9:00 AM on Sauvie Island, Oregon. All 14 acres of sunflowers are blooming at once this year — and the maze is free to visit. The next two weeks are peak time, so don't wait! More info
• Assisted Bridge: Lesson and Play – 9:15–10:30 AM at Vancouver Bridge Club, 6503 E. Mill Plain Blvd. Free bridge lesson followed by assisted play. More info
• TITANIC: The Artifact Exhibition at OMSI – 9:30 AM at OMSI, Portland. Step back to April 1912 and explore more than 100 authentic artifacts recovered from the wreck site. More info
• Open Saturday at Pearson Field Education Center – 10:00 AM–3:00 PM in Vancouver. Explore flight simulators, a vertical wind table, and historic airplanes. Free admission, all ages. More info
• Junior Ranger Day at Fort Vancouver – 10:00 AM at Fort Vancouver National Historic Site. Families can pick up a Junior Ranger scavenger hunt and explore the reconstructed Hudson's Bay Company fort. Free–$10. More info
• Pop-Up History Museum: Meeting History in Ridgefield – 10:00 AM at The Greely Building, Ridgefield. Explore Ridgefield's founding, community organizations, and little-known stories as part of the nation's 250th anniversary commemoration. Free. More info
• Hidden Journey of Wastewater – 10:00 AM–12:30 PM at the Water Resources Education Center, Vancouver. Tour the Marine Park Wastewater Treatment Plant, then take a nature walk to the Columbia River. Ages 8 and up. Free. More info
• The Stuff of Legends at AQUA Gallery – 10:00 AM–3:00 PM at 403 Quayside Place, Vancouver Waterfront. Featuring Abby Ketcham's expressive stuffies and Carson Legree's vibrant mythological paintings. Free. More info
• 78th Street Heritage Farm Walking Tour – 10:00 AM in Hazel Dell. WSU Extension Master Gardener docents lead a tour of this historic 79-acre "poor farm" turned demonstration garden, listed on the Washington Historic Register. More info
• Adopt-A-Park at LeRoy Haagen Community Park – 10:00 AM. Help remove ivy and non-native plants from the park's natural area. Training, tools, gloves, water, and snacks provided. Family-friendly and great for teens. More info
• Wander Clark County: Historic Old Town Ridgefield – Late Tour – 11:00 AM at Overlook Park, Ridgefield. Same wonderful walking tour, later start. $10. More info
• Family Pocket Monsters: Ruby and Sapphire Celebration – 11:00 AM at La Center Community Library. Pokémon fans can hop into the Hoenn league, earn badges through activities, and explore with their Pokédex. Free. More info
• Vancouver Wine & Jazz Festival – 11:00 AM–10:00 PM at Esther Short Park. Internationally acclaimed jazz, blues, gospel, and pop musicians plus Northwest wines, fine art, and food. Kids under 12 free with a paid adult. $35–$40 at the gate. More info
• The Reser Presents: Musical Playground – 11:00 AM–2:00 PM at The Reser Center for the Arts, Beaverton. A free, interactive event for families with kids ages 10 and under to explore instruments from around the world. No ticket needed. More info
• Play Bridge (0–150 Points) – 11:00 AM at Vancouver Bridge Club, 6503 E. Mill Plain Blvd. $10. More info
• Ring-Making Workshop at Craft Collective – 11:00 AM–3:00 PM at 21506 NE 83rd St., Vancouver. Instructor Shelby Evans of Modeco Jewelry teaches metalsmithing basics — sizing, filing, soldering, shaping, stone-setting, and finishing. You'll leave with a sterling silver and 14K gold ring with a small diamond. $210. More info
• Free Lunch at East Woods Presbyterian Church – 11:00 AM–1:00 PM. A free community meal on the fourth Saturday of every month. More info
• Trusts 101 Seminar with Attorney Karen Webber – 11:00 AM at Pettis Webber Pacific P.S., 1500 D St., Vancouver (also available online). Learn everything you need to know to protect your assets. Free, RSVP required — call 360-216-4007. More info
• Community Lake Day with Adventures Without Limits – 11:00 AM at Hagg Lake, Sain Creek Pavilion. A road trip–worthy summer gathering celebrating adaptive and inclusive recreation with good food, live music, and kayaking. Registration required. More info
• Longview Rotary's SquirrelFest 2026 – 11:00 AM in Longview. The West Coast's nuttiest celebration features squirrel bridge tours, kids' activities, and more near Lake Sacagawea. More info
• Art & Nature in the Park – 11:00 AM–2:00 PM in Vancouver. Free art and nature activities presented by Fourth Plain Forward and community partners. More info
• Camas Art & Wine Walk – 3:00–7:00 PM in Downtown Camas. Stroll tree-lined streets sampling Southwest Washington and Oregon wines, discover local art, enjoy bites from nearby eateries, and pop into boutique shops. More info
• Brewing Bridges Collaboration Festival – 3:00–8:00 PM at Heathen Estate Winery, 9400 NE 134th St., Vancouver. Sample one-of-a-kind brews from 30 breweries plus food trucks, a vendor market, and live music. $49 (includes unlimited tastings and a commemorative glass); VIP $64. More info
• Tween & Teen Video Game Night – 4:00–6:00 PM at Ridgefield Community Library. Test your skills on Nintendo Switch, enjoy snacks, and make new friends. No registration required. Free. More info
• "Hooked on Nature" Invasive Species Cook-Off – 4:00 PM at Columbia Springs. Local chefs transform invasive species into creative dishes — sample entries and vote for your favorite while celebrating Columbia Springs' 25th anniversary. More info
• Hooked on Nature Fundraiser – 4:30–8:00 PM at Columbia Springs, 12208 SE Evergreen Hwy. Dinner, two drinks, a silent auction, and the Invasive Species Cook-Off. $115. More info
• Live Music: North City Juke at Windy Hills Winery – 5:00–8:00 PM in Ridgefield. Local band plays under the tent. No cover, all ages. Drinks and food from Steakburger mobile available for purchase. More info
• Muse – The Wow! Signal Tour – 7:00 PM at Cascades Amphitheater, Ridgefield. Muse brings their summer North American tour supporting their 10th studio album. $35. More info
• Music Bingo PDX: 80s Hits! – 7:00 PM at McMenamins Kalama Harbor Lodge. Your host DJ plays clips of totally awesome 80s songs — match them on your bingo card. $5. More info
• VanCity Saturday Social Dance & Beginners Lesson – 7:00 PM at VanCity Ballroom, 9212 NE Hwy 99, Hazel Dell. A 45-minute lesson followed by social dancing until 10 PM. No partner needed. $10. More info
• Live Music on the Patio at Farrar's Bistro – 7:00 PM at 12514 NW 36th Ave., Vancouver. Enjoy food, cocktails, and local wine with live performances on the pet-friendly patio. More info
• Somethin' Fishy's Going On at Battle Ground Lake – 7:00–8:00 PM at Battle Ground Lake State Park. Fish hatchery specialist Adam Sullivan shares the life and times of Battle Ground Lake's rainbow trout. Bring folding chairs. Free (Discover Pass required for parking). More info
• Candlelight: Tribute to Taylor Swift – 8:30 PM at The Old Church Concert Hall, Portland. A multi-sensory concert under the gentle glow of candlelight. $42.50–$66. More info
• Saturday Karaoke Night at Pour Choices Pub – 8:30 PM at 1919 Main St., Vancouver. Let your inner entertainer shine — come solo or bring friends. More info

Sunday, August 23

• Free Outdoor Fitness Bootcamp – 9:00 AM. Meet at Northwest Personal Training, 1011 Broadway, Vancouver, before heading to scenic locations for a full-body cardio and muscle workout. All fitness levels welcome. Fill out a waiver at nwpersonaltraining.com before class. More info
• Community Cuts at Saving Grace Church – 10:00 AM–4:00 PM in Battle Ground. Free haircuts by licensed stylists and barbers for all ages, plus a free community meal with hamburgers, hot dogs, and more. More info
• Tween & Teen Creative Crafts: Map Masterpieces – 1:00 PM at Vancouver Community Library. Ages 9–19 learn cartography basics and create maps of real or imagined places. Free. More info
• Changing Hearts Foundation Backpack Giveaway – 2:00 PM at Bagley Community Park, 4607 Plomondon St., Vancouver. Free backpacks loaded with school supplies, plus bounce houses, face painting, barbecue, raffles, and free haircuts. More info
• Ceramic Coaster Workshop at Kilnfolk Clay Studio – 3:00–5:30 PM at 108 W. Sixth St., Vancouver. Create a set of four ceramic coasters and a matching holder using hand-building techniques. $65. Register at kilnfolkclay.com. More info

Monday, August 24

• Audiobook Walking Club – 9:30 AM. Bring your audiobook and meet at a different outdoor location each month for a 60-minute walk plus optional social time. Hosted by Camas Public Library. Free. More info
• Storytime in the Park – 10:30–11:00 AM. Join Camas Library staff at a different Camas park each week for a family storytime outdoors. Bring a blanket! All ages. Free. More info
• Tiny Toppings Storytime at Eight Cow Creamery – 11:00 AM in Ridgefield. Story time with the little ones at Copper Bell Bookshop — every participant gets a coupon for a free kids' ice cream scoop with purchase. More info
• Downtown Vancouver Rotary Lunch Meeting – 12:00 PM at the AC Marriott on the Vancouver Waterfront. Community members welcome. Free. More info
• Line Dancing at Cascade Park Community Library – 1:30–3:30 PM. Lace up whatever shoes you've got and learn line dances for fun and exercise. Free. More info
• Bigfoot Adventure on the Portland Spirit – 2:00 PM from Caruthers Landing Dock, Portland. An 80-mile round-trip high-speed jetboat tour to Multnomah Falls with exclusive Bigfoot narration by Cliff Barackman of "Finding Bigfoot." $64–$72. More info
• Adaptive Bicycling Summer Series – 6:00–8:00 PM at Portland International Raceway. Everyone welcome — bring your own bike or try one of theirs. Helmets required. More info
• Running Wild: Return to the River – Special 3D Screening – 6:30 PM at OMSI, Portland. A stunning film about the life of Pacific salmon, with an introduction by Wild Salmon Center CEO Guido Rahr. Pay what you can ($0–$15). More info
• Cosmic Watercolor Splatter Coasters Workshop – 6:30 PM at Vancouver Arts Hub, 1007 E. Mill Plain Blvd. Susan Soltau of Dragon Half Art teaches wet-on-wet blending and splatter techniques to create nebula-like coasters. No experience needed. $35. More info
• Monday Trivia Night at Pour Choices Pub – 6:30 PM at 1919 Main St., Vancouver. Grab your smartest friends and compete for bragging rights, hosted by Don Elliott. More info

Tuesday, August 25

• Federal Public Lands Fee-Free Day – 7:00 AM. In honor of the National Park Service's 110th birthday, entrance fees are waived at federal public lands across the country. A perfect day to explore! More info
• Enhance Fitness Classes – 8:30 AM at various locations around Clark County. Free, evidence-based exercise classes for adults 60 and older, tailored to each person's ability. No pre-registration required. More info
• Sherlock Holmes Mystery at Three Creeks Community Library – 10:00 AM–12:00 PM. Test your detective skills with a Holmesian-style mystery — play solo or in a small group. Free. More info
• Chipper's Preschool Rides at Oaks Park – 10:00 AM–12:30 PM at Oaks Park, Portland. Little ones ages 6 and under enjoy kiddie and family rides, then visit Chipper the Squirrel during snack and story time. $13.50 per child; one adult rides free. More info
• AFC Urgent Care Grand Opening in Minnehaha – 10:00 AM at 6713 NE 63rd St., Suite C102, Vancouver. Tour the new clinic, meet the team, and enjoy coffee, cookies, and giveaways at the ribbon cutting. More info
• Teen & Adult DIY Cat Castles – 4:00 PM at Battle Ground Community Library. Build a custom cardboard castle for your cat (or other small pet). All supplies provided. Ages 13+. Free. More info
• Tween & Teen Tabletop Role-Playing Game – 4:30–6:30 PM at various FVRL library locations. Ages 9–19 can create a character and play Dungeons & Dragons 5E or Pathfinder 1E. Free. More info
• Pints and Pottery at Brothers Cascadia – 5:00 PM at Brothers Cascadia Evergreen Pub, 108 W. Evergreen Blvd., Vancouver. Make a bowl, mug, plate, or vase with Kilnfolk Clay Studio staff — demo at 5:15 PM. $32 includes all materials. Beer and food sold separately. More info
• Shut Up and Write! Writers Group – 5:15–6:45 PM at Vancouver Arts Hub, 1007 E. Mill Plain Blvd. All experience levels welcome for dedicated writing time — no readings or critiques. Free. More info
• Spanish Conversation Group – 5:30–6:30 PM at Camas Public Library. A relaxed group for beginning Spanish speakers. No registration required. Free. More info
• Women's Mountain Bike Clinics – 5:30 PM. NW Trail Sisters and Brave Endeavors offer two clinics — a steeps fundamentals session at Rocky Point and a jump clinic at Gateway Green in Portland. Check links for registration and details. More info

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