Clark County Today News

Ridgefield Police Department joins the Pink Patch Project for an eighth year, with officers wearing pink shoulder patches during Breast Cancer Awareness Month and $10 public patches benefiting Pink Lemonade Project. Patches go on sale Oct. 2 at RPD, City Hall, and select local businesses, with only 300 available. https://www.clarkcountytoday.com/news/ridgefield-police-department-launches-2025-pink-patch-campaign/ #Ridgefield #PinkPatchProject #BreastCancerAwareness #PinkLemonadeProject #Police #Community #Washington #PublicSafety

Clark County and partner cities released a Draft Environmental Impact Statement for the Growth Plan Update under SEPA, with public comment accepted through Nov. 30, 2025. https://www.clarkcountytoday.com/news/county-releases-draft-environmental-impact-statement-for-growth-plan-update/ #ClarkCounty #DEIS #SEPA #GrowthManagementAct #ComprehensivePlan #CommunityPlanning #PublicComment

Lars Larson challenges Sen. Jeff Merkley’s comments about federal limits on military use inside the U.S., arguing Title 10 permits deploying the National Guard to execute federal laws and pointing to historic precedents. https://www.clarkcountytoday.com/opinion/opinion-one-senate-lawmaker-lies-about-the-law-regarding-the-national-guard/ #Opinion #NationalGuard #Title10 #JeffMerkley #Portland #ICE #Oregon #TheNorthwestNonsense

Doug Dahl examines how Washington law can hold people accountable as accomplices to traffic violations. From street racing to hitchhiking and even urging a driver to speed, Dahl considers how actions and words can influence road safety. https://www.clarkcountytoday.com/opinion/opinion-accomplice-to-a-traffic-violation/ #Opinion #TrafficSafety #WashingtonLaw #Transportation #AccompliceLiability

The Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife has launched a public survey to guide three-year hunting season planning for 2027–2029. Residents can provide input on species, permits, access, and management through Oct. 31. https://www.clarkcountytoday.com/sports/wdfw-opens-public-feedback-survey-to-begin-three-year-hunting-season-planning/ #WDFW #WashingtonState #Hunting #WildlifeManagement #Sportsmen #GameSpecies #PublicFeedback

Eric Lynch responds to criticism of Washington’s voting system, arguing the state’s mail-in elections are secure, audits confirm accuracy, and proposed citizenship-document rules would disenfranchise legal voters. https://www.clarkcountytoday.com/opinion/letter-washingtons-system-works-and-we-should-protect-it/ #Opinion #Elections #WashingtonState #VotingRights #ElectionIntegrity #MailInVoting #VoterSuppression

Clark County Public Health has lifted the danger advisory at Vancouver Lake after harmful algal blooms dissipated and toxin levels returned to safe levels. The department warns blooms could return and continues monitoring. https://www.clarkcountytoday.com/news/public-health-lifts-danger-advisory-at-vancouver-lake/ #VancouverLake #ClarkCounty #PublicHealth #WaterSafety #AlgalBlooms #Cyanotoxins

Isaiah “Big Red” Mattison is at the heart of Woodland High School, both on the football field and in the stands supporting classmates. The senior lineman led the Beavers in a big 17-14 win over Columbia River, showing leadership that extends beyond the gridiron. Coach Glen Flanagan praises him as the perfect representative of Woodland. https://www.clarkcountytoday.com/sports/high-school-football-big-red-isaiah-mattison-is-that-guy-in-woodland/ #Woodland #HighSchoolFootball #IsaiahMattison #BigRed #2AGSHL #WoodlandBeavers #CommunitySupport

Columbia Credit Union has launched assistance programs for members affected by the government shutdown, including a 0% APR Short-Term Government Shutdown Loan and a Loan Skip-Payment Program. The credit union says these efforts are part of its mission to provide stability and community-based financial wellness during uncertain times. https://www.clarkcountytoday.com/news/columbia-credit-union-offers-government-shutdown-assistance/ #ClarkCounty #GovernmentShutdown #ColumbiaCreditUnion #FinancialAssistance #CommunitySupport #BusinessNews

Grassroots group Save Vancouver Streets is fundraising to pay for an appeal after losing a court case against the City of Vancouver. The group wants voters to decide before the city removes lanes of vehicle traffic under its Complete Streets program. Supporters are aiming to raise $20,000 by the end of October, with appeal arguments due in November. https://www.clarkcountytoday.com/news/save-vancouver-streets-raising-money-to-pay-for-appeal/ #Vancouver #SaveVancouverStreets #CompleteStreets #Traffic #CitizenInitiative #CommunityAction

Heidi St. John reflects on the life and legacy of Charlie Kirk, praising his efforts to reach young people and defend traditional American values. She calls on conservatives to step into politics, civic duty, and cultural influence, urging action ahead of an Oct. 14 Vancouver event hosted by Firmly Planted Action, Club America, and TPUSA Faith. https://www.clarkcountytoday.com/opinion/opinion-charlie-kirk-was-doing-what-desperately-needed-to-be-done/ #Opinion #HeidiStJohn #CharlieKirk #TPUSAFaith #CivicEngagement #AmericanValues #ClarkCounty #PoliticalActivism

Elizabeth New (Hovde) of the Washington Policy Center argues against undoing reforms in H.R. 1 as part of the government shutdown standoff. She says the shutdown is unfair to taxpayers and workers, and that reforms such as Medicaid work requirements, eligibility checks, and ending temporary COVID-era subsidies are needed for real cost containment. https://www.clarkcountytoday.com/opinion/opinion-stop-the-temper-tantrum-keep-needed-health-reforms/ #Opinion #WashingtonState #ElizabethNewHovde #HealthCareReform #GovernmentShutdown #Medicaid #Obamacare #PolicyDebate

Vancouver’s Old Apple Tree Festival returns Oct. 4 at Old Apple Tree Park, part of Fort Vancouver. This free community event runs from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. and features music, cider pressing, walking tours, and cuttings from the historic tree, believed to be the oldest apple tree in the Pacific Northwest. https://www.clarkcountytoday.com/news/vancouvers-old-apple-tree-festival-returns-oct-4-at-fort-vancouver/ #Vancouver #OldAppleTreeFestival #FortVancouver #HeritageTree #CommunityEvent #LiveMusic #EnvironmentalStewardship

Nancy Churchill’s column “The Cover-Up” critiques how media outlets and institutions protect narratives instead of truth, especially when children are involved. She highlights the role of unions, OSPI policy, and parental rights battles in Washington, urging accountability and honest reporting. https://www.clarkcountytoday.com/opinion/opinion-the-cover-up-why-newsrooms-protect-narrative-over-children/ #Opinion #WashingtonState #NancyChurchill #DangerousRhetoric #ParentalRights #EducationPolicy #MediaBias

RedDoor Gallery in Camas invites the public to a special First Friday event on Oct. 3, featuring new works by George Throop, plein-air art from the recent Camas event, and a pumpkin contest with awards. Guests can enjoy complimentary refreshments during the evening reception from 5-8 p.m. https://www.clarkcountytoday.com/news/reddoor-gallery-unveils-latest-works-by-george-throop-first-friday-october-3/ #Camas #RedDoorGallery #GeorgeThroop #ArtExhibit #FirstFriday #LocalArtists #CommunityEvent

Clark County Fire Marshal Donna Goddard announced that outdoor debris burning and recreational fires in unincorporated Clark County are no longer under a ban, thanks to recent rain and cooler weather. The Vancouver Fire Department also lifted its recreational burn ban. Residents are reminded permits are still required for yard debris and land clearing. https://www.clarkcountytoday.com/news/county-fire-marshal-lifts-outdoor-burn-ban/ #Vancouver #ClarkCounty #BurnBan #WildfireSafety #OutdoorBurning #CommunityUpdate

With hours left before midnight, the Senate failed to pass stopgap funding bills, pushing the U.S. toward a federal shutdown. The standoff centers on health care tax credits, budget authority disputes, and looming mass layoffs, with unions filing suit against the Trump administration. https://www.clarkcountytoday.com/news/midnight-federal-shutdown-edges-closer-as-us-senate-fails-to-agree-on-spending-bills/ #GovernmentShutdown #Congress #Senate #Healthcare #FederalWorkers #Budget #WashingtonStateStandard

New taxes take effect in Washington on Oct. 1 under the 2025-27 budget, including sales tax expansion, higher B&O rates, and transportation fee increases. Lawmakers and businesses warn of confusion, compliance burdens, and costs being passed to consumers, while proponents say the changes are needed to close a budget shortfall. https://www.clarkcountytoday.com/opinion/oct-1-brings-new-taxes-for-washington-businesses-and-consumers/ #Washington #Taxes #SmallBusiness #Comcast #SalesTax #BONewTax #Transportation #TheCenterSquare

Mark Harmsworth of the Washington Policy Center warns that Senate Bill 5814 will devastate small businesses, expanding sales taxes on services, raising costs, and fueling inflation while leaving entrepreneurs scrambling. He calls for repeal of the law and reform of Washington’s tax system. https://www.clarkcountytoday.com/opinion/opinion-washingtons-new-sales-tax-onslaught-devastates-small-businesses/ #Washington #SmallBusiness #SalesTax #SB5814 #WashingtonPolicyCenter #TaxReform #Opinion #MarkHarmsworth

Clark County and the city of Vancouver are urging residents to dispose of fallen leaves properly this fall to prevent clogged drains and road hazards. Residents can use curbside bins, backyard composting, or the free Fall Leaf Coupon program, available Oct. 1–Dec. 31 at designated drop-off sites. https://www.clarkcountytoday.com/news/clark-county-residents-encouraged-to-dispose-of-fallen-leaves-properly-2/ #ClarkCounty #Vancouver #FallLeaves #Recycling #Composting #PublicWorks #RoadSafety #LeafCoupon

Ridgefield’s Birdfest and Bluegrass Festival returns Oct. 4 with a full day of family-friendly fun. Visitors can enjoy bluegrass music, children’s markets, vendors, dragon boat paddles, and wildlife tours at the Ridgefield National Wildlife Refuge. https://www.clarkcountytoday.com/people/entertainment/ridgefield-to-host-annual-birdfest-and-bluegrass-festival-on-saturday-oct-4/ #Ridgefield #Birdfest #Bluegrass #Community #Wildlife #FamilyEvents #SandhillCranes #Ospreys

Let’s Go Washington has launched an attack tracker after escalating reports of harassment, theft, and voter suppression targeting signature gatherers statewide. Founder Brian Heywood says officials must act as hundreds of signatures have already been destroyed or stolen. https://www.clarkcountytoday.com/news/lgw-releases-attack-tracker-after-more-cases-against-signature-gatherers/ #Washington #LGW #SignatureGathering #VoterSuppression #Democracy #InitiativeProcess #PetitionRights #BrianHeywood

Clark County will begin accepting applications Oct. 1 for 2026 Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) and HOME funds, with nearly $2.9 million expected for housing, public services, and neighborhood improvements. Eligible applicants include nonprofits, developers, and local governments. https://www.clarkcountytoday.com/news/applications-for-2026-clark-county-cdbg-home-funds-available-starting-oct-1/ #ClarkCounty #CDBG #HOMEfunds #AffordableHousing #HUD #CommunityDevelopment #PublicServices #Nonprofits

Clark County’s Composter Recycler program is offering free in-person workshops this fall covering composting, recycling, green cleaning, food waste prevention, and sustainable holiday tips. Families are welcome at the weekly sessions in Vancouver. https://www.clarkcountytoday.com/news/free-in-person-workshops-begin-in-october-to-teach-residents-about-composting-and-sustainable-living/ #ClarkCounty #Composting #Recycling #Sustainability #GreenLiving #PublicWorks #Workshops #CommunityEvents

Negotiations at the White House ended without a deal as funding nears expiration, with Democrats citing health care cost concerns and Republicans backing a temporary bill; federal workers face furloughs if no agreement is reached. https://www.clarkcountytoday.com/news/were-headed-to-a-shutdown-white-house-meeting-ends-with-no-deal-as-deadline-nears/ #GovernmentShutdown #Congress #Healthcare #Budget #Medicaid #Senate #House #WashingtonStateStandard

Todd Myers of the Washington Policy Center critiques Gov. Bob Ferguson’s new “Your Washington” initiative, arguing it must meet deadlines, set meaningful metrics, and enforce accountability to avoid the failures of Results Washington. https://www.clarkcountytoday.com/opinion/opinion-gov-ferguson-promises-to-make-the-state-more-responsive-heres-how-he-can-make-that-happen/ #Opinion #WashingtonState #GovBobFerguson #GovernmentReform #YourWashington #Policy #Accountability #Bureaucracy #Columns

Oregon is suing to block President Trump’s order deploying 200 National Guard members to Portland. Gov. Tina Kotek, Attorney General Dan Rayfield, and the Oregon DOJ argue the federal move is unconstitutional and unnecessary as protests outside ICE facilities remain mostly peaceful. https://www.clarkcountytoday.com/news/oregon-sues-to-block-trump-from-sending-national-guard-to-portland/ #Oregon #Portland #Trump #NationalGuard #TinaKotek #PeteHegseth #DanRayfield #ICE #Protests #Politics

Joe Cortright contends that the I-5 Bridge replacement is repeating the mistakes of the failed Columbia River Crossing by ignoring Coast Guard clearance rules. With delays mounting and permits not yet filed, he warns the project could lose billions in federal funding if pushed into 2027. https://www.clarkcountytoday.com/opinion/opinion-a-bridge-too-short-again/ #Opinion #I5Bridge #Transportation #ColumbiaRiver #IBR #Infrastructure #CoastGuard #FederalGrants #PacificNorthwest #Politics

Alysha Evelyn Chandra, a career prosecutor and Army National Guard officer, has launched her campaign for Clark County prosecutor. She highlights her experience with tough cases, support for victims, and commitment to accountability, transparency, and rehabilitation. https://www.clarkcountytoday.com/news/alysha-evelyn-chandra-launches-campaign-for-clark-county-prosecutor/ #ClarkCounty #Politics #Elections #AlyshaChandra #Prosecutor #PublicSafety #VictimsRights #JusticeSystem #LawEnforcement #Accountability

Lars Larson argues in his column that Oregon Gov. Tina Kotek’s refusal of federal help during Portland riots mirrors Orval Faubus’s historic defiance of federal law. He blasts her handling of ICE attacks and National Guard deployment. https://www.clarkcountytoday.com/opinion/opinion-tina-kotek-goes-orval-faubus-on-us/ #Opinion #LarsLarson #TinaKotek #Portland #Antifa #ICE #NationalGuard #FederalLaw #PacificNorthwest #Politics

In this letter to the editor, Ridgefield physician R. Myles Dickason calls on Rep. Marie Gluesenkamp-Perez to reject foreign lobbying money and reconsider support for funding conflicts overseas. He urges prioritizing Southwest Washington’s schools, jobs, and infrastructure. https://www.clarkcountytoday.com/opinion/letter-our-southwest-washington-tax-dollars-are-being-used-to-fund-the-starvation-of-children/ #Opinion #LetterToTheEditor #ClarkCounty #Ridgefield #GluesenkampPerez #AIPAC #Israel #Gaza #HumanitarianCrisis #SouthwestWashington

Washington’s Nuclear Caucus visited Idaho National Laboratory to see firsthand how advanced fuels and small modular reactors could help meet the state’s growing energy demand. With pressure from AI data centers, electric vehicles, and heating needs, nuclear power may become a key piece of Washington’s clean energy strategy. https://www.clarkcountytoday.com/news/nuclear-caucus-visits-idaho-national-lab-to-explore-energy-solutions-for-washington-state/ #Washington #Energy #Politics #Nuclear #CleanEnergy #AI #ElectricVehicles #JohnLey #SmallModularReactors #NetZeroGoals

Camas resident Anna Miller breaks down what a government shutdown actually means, noting which essential workers continue, which benefits keep flowing, and where agencies may pause or delay services. https://www.clarkcountytoday.com/opinion/letter-henny-penny-the-sky-will-not-fall/ #Opinion #LetterToTheEditor #GovernmentShutdown #FederalEmployees #SocialSecurity #Medicare #SNAP #WIC #Camas #ClarkCounty

Paul Valencia shares his perspective after 211 straight Friday nights of high school football, writing that while scores matter, it’s the stories of players, coaches, and fans that define the experience. https://www.clarkcountytoday.com/opinion/opinion-the-stories-of-the-people-who-experience-the-games-are-the-best-stories/ #Opinion #Sports #Vancouver #HighSchoolFootball #ClarkCounty #PaulValencia #FridayNightLights #StudentAthletes #Coaches #Fans

Economist Joe Cortright argues the I-5 Bridge replacement project is in deep jeopardy as federal approvals stall, Coast Guard objections grow, and billions in grant funding face expiration deadlines. He says rising costs and political roadblocks could derail the project entirely. https://www.clarkcountytoday.com/opinion/opinion-federal-funding-for-i-5-bridge-replacement-project-in-jeopardy/ #Opinion #Transportation #I5Bridge #FederalFunding #JoeCortright #ColumbiaRiverCrossing #TrumpAdministration #CoastGuard #USDOT #MEGAgrant

The Columbia Theater Arts Foundation is bringing Pay What You Will theater to Clark County, launching with The Sound of Music Oct. 16–19 at Washburn Performing Arts Center. Led by Michael McCormic Jr., Dean Waters, and Ellie Tauscher, the nonprofit hopes to make the arts accessible for all ages. https://www.clarkcountytoday.com/people/columbia-theater-arts-foundation-to-produce-productions-at-the-perfect-price/ #ClarkCounty #Vancouver #Washougal #CommunityTheater #ColumbiaTheaterArtsFoundation #TheSoundOfMusic #PayWhatYouWill #NonprofitArts #MichaelMcCormicJr #DeanWaters #EllieTauscher

Lars Larson argues that President Trump has now set his sights on Portland after years of unrest, lawless protests near ICE offices, and shrinking city revenues. The opinion column highlights Trump’s warnings and the mayor’s defiance. https://www.clarkcountytoday.com/opinion/opinion-president-trump-to-the-rose-city-youre-next/ #Opinion #Columns #PacificNorthwest #LarsLarson #DonaldTrump #Portland #Antifa #SanctuaryCity #ICE #Riots

🎙️ Podcast DescriptionPacifiCorp announced that the Swift Forest Camp boat ramp will close Sept. 30 through May 2026 as part of reservoir management to maintain water levels downstream of Merwin Dam. Other ramps, including Speelyai Park and Cresap Park, will also see temporary closures, while Yale Park will remain open. https://www.clarkcountytoday.com/news/swift-forest-camp-boat-ramp-to-close-until-may-2026/ #ClarkCounty #Ariel #LewisRiver #MerwinDam #SwiftForestCamp #BoatRamp #PacifiCorp #Reservoir #News #WaterLevels

A major water main break forced the closure of NE 134th Street in Salmon Creek as crews and firefighters worked to stop flooding and redirect traffic. Provided by Clark County Fire District 6. https://www.clarkcountytoday.com/news/major-water-pipe-burst-closes-road-in-clark-county/ #ClarkCounty #News #Traffic #RoadClosure #WaterMainBreak #SalmonCreek #ClarkPublicUtilities #FireDistrict6

Brush Prairie resident Bob Mattila shares a letter to the editor reflecting on the parable of the Good Samaritan, urging compassion, mercy, and love for neighbors as described in scripture. https://www.clarkcountytoday.com/opinion/letter-be-a-good-samaritan/ #Opinion #LetterToTheEditor #ClarkCounty #BrushPrairie #Faith #Bible #Scripture #GoodSamaritan #Compassion #Mercy

This week’s Clark County Today poll asks if lawmakers should consider ending the I-5 Bridge replacement project. With costs possibly hitting $10 billion and delays stretching construction into the 2030s, some call it a boondoggle while others say replacement is essential for safety. Vote now and share your opinion. https://www.clarkcountytoday.com/opinion/poll-should-lawmakers-consider-ending-the-i-5-bridge-replacement-project-altogether/ #PacificNorthwest #I5Bridge #IBR #Transportation #Poll #Boondoggle #TaxpayerConcerns #Opinion

Ken Vance draws parallels between the chaos of Animal House and the troubled Interstate Bridge replacement project. With rising costs, delays, and unanswered questions, he argues the program is heading down the same costly path as the failed Columbia River Crossing. https://www.clarkcountytoday.com/opinion/opinion-remain-calm-all-is-well/ #ClarkCounty #IBR #I5Bridge #Transportation #KenVance #ProjectDelays #LightRail #Opinion

Lars Larson raises questions about media silence surrounding a lawsuit against Sen. Ron Wyden, alleging his children harassed a gay employee who later died by suicide. Larson argues the story reflects political double standards in the Pacific Northwest. https://www.clarkcountytoday.com/opinion/opinion-the-story-about-united-states-senator-ron-wyden/ #PacificNorthwest #RonWyden #LarsLarson #OregonPolitics #MediaCoverage #DoubleStandards #Opinion

The North Clark Historical Museum in Amboy will honor early pioneers with a special exhibit on Sept. 27. The event includes a 2 p.m. presentation, blacksmith demonstrations, antique engine displays, and a quilt raffle to support the museum. https://www.clarkcountytoday.com/news/north-clark-historical-museum-to-hold-exhibit-on-early-pioneers-on-saturday-sept-27/ #Amboy #NorthClarkHistoricalMuseum #PioneerHistory #ChelatchiePrairie #Yacolt #CommunityEvents #Blacksmith #AntiqueEngines #QuiltRaffle

Washington drivers may see some relief at the pump this fall. AAA reports the average gas price is $4.598 per gallon, down from last week, with analysts citing seasonal fuel changes, supply boosts, and potential 30–50 cent declines by Thanksgiving. Taxes and Washington’s carbon program remain major cost factors. https://www.clarkcountytoday.com/news/washington-state-drivers-could-see-some-relief-at-the-gas-pump-this-fall/ #WashingtonState #GasPrices #AAA #GasBuddy #CarbonTax #FuelCosts #Transportation #ClimateCommitmentAct #PowerTheFuture

Gov. Bob Ferguson and AG Nick Brown are opposing a federal proposal to repeal the Roadless Rule, which protects 2 million acres of Washington forest from logging and roadbuilding. They warn rescission could harm endangered species, recreational economies, and water quality, while timber groups back the change. https://www.clarkcountytoday.com/news/wa-governor-and-ag-oppose-repeal-of-federal-forest-protections/ #WashingtonState #RoadlessRule #ForestProtections #BobFerguson #NickBrown #EnvironmentalPolicy #TimberIndustry #PublicLands

Mark Harmsworth of the Washington Policy Center says Washington’s $903 million revenue shortfall is the result of reckless spending and tax hikes. He calls for reversing course by cutting spending, repealing punitive taxes, and restoring fiscal discipline. https://www.clarkcountytoday.com/opinion/opinion-how-the-legislature-dug-washington-into-a-fiscal-hole/ #Washington #StateBudget #TaxHikes #FiscalPolicy #WashingtonPolicyCenter #MarkHarmsworth #RevenueForecast #Opinion

Bill Bruch argues that conservative signature gatherers in Washington have been harassed and threatened while collecting signatures for initiatives on parental rights and girls’ sports. He says these actions silence voters and violate constitutional rights. https://www.clarkcountytoday.com/opinion/opinion-leftists-again-targeting-conservative-signature-gatherers-in-washington-state/ #Opinion #WashingtonState #Petitions #ParentalRights #GirlsSports #Initiatives #PoliticalHarassment #ElectionIntegrity

DEA agents seized 50,208 counterfeit M30 pills in Centralia that tested positive for carfentanil, a synthetic opioid 100 times more potent than fentanyl. The seizure highlights the deadly threat fueling the opioid epidemic in Washington state and beyond. https://www.clarkcountytoday.com/news/thousands-of-counterfeit-m30-pills-containing-carfentanil-seized-in-centralia/ #WashingtonState #Centralia #DEA #Carfentanil #OpioidEpidemic #OverdoseCrisis #SyntheticOpioids #PublicSafety

The Clark County Board of Health approved a resolution committing to improve access to pregnancy-related care for Medicaid clients. The plan addresses inequities in prenatal care, maternal health outcomes, and support for Medicaid families in Clark County. https://www.clarkcountytoday.com/news/board-of-health-declares-commitment-to-improving-access-to-pregnancy-related-care-for-medicaid-clients/ #ClarkCounty #PrenatalCare #Medicaid #MaternalHealth #BoardofHealth #CommunityHealth #PublicHealth