Another one of those infernal, alternate-weekend traffic jams on the bridges is scheduled for 9 p.m. Friday through 5 a.m. Monday (http://www.oregon.gov/ODOT/HWY/REGION1/GlennJackson/). Although southbound congestion a couple of weeks ago was much lighter than northbound traffic backups earlier this summer (likely, we submit, because Clark County motorists are better informed and better prepared than Oregonians), there still is cause for concern as you plan your weekend.
As much as we value friendships with the wonderful people across the Columbia River, our advice is to venture north instead of south this weekend. Two special events in north Clark County — one a new feature, the other traditional — prompt this recommendation.
Honor American veterans
Through 5 p.m. Sunday, La Center is hosting the American Veterans Traveling Tribute, including an 80 percent scale replica of the Vietnam Veterans Memorial, at Holley Park, 1000 E. Fourth St. The exhibit is open 24 hours and is free. (Donations can be dropped off at City Hall, 214 E. Fourth St. in La Center.)
This is a traveling exhibit, but it already has served as a unifying force in the La Center community. About 200 volunteers are helping staff the exhibit, and a community committee has worked many hours to spread awareness, build patriotism and make sure America’s military veterans receive the full honor they deserve. The La Center Lions Club and Clark County Fire and Rescue are among the sponsors. Special events — including presentation of wreaths, candlelight vigils, pancake breakfasts and other ceremonies — are scheduled each day.
What makes this display so special is that it’s open 24/7. For many people, a daytime visit will be convenient and meaningful. For others, though, a quiet time is preferred. “There’s a lot of vets that can only come out at night to do this — the solemnness, they don’t want to be around the crowds. It’s a special time,” said Tim Hopkin, La Center police chief, Vietnam veteran and event organizer.
For more information: http://www.LaCenterhonorsvets.info.
It’s fair time!
On the other side of Interstate 5, the Clark County Fair begins its 10-day run on Friday, and it’s not too soon to start praying, wishing and hoping for good weather.
Last year, for the first time in more than a decade, the fair’s amusement rides were temporarily closed three times because of rain. The continually wet weather was believed to be the main culprit in an 8 percent drop from the previous year in fair attendance.
The Clark County Fair is more than just the premier annual event for local and area residents. Fair officials call it the largest single-location event in the Vancouver-Portland area. Part of the reason for that popularity is the opportunity to celebrate our county’s rich agricultural heritage. But another part is the chance to let your hair down, go crazy on the rides, laugh and suspend your dinner-table etiquette and nutritional concerns as you wolf down the fair fare, some best described as “comfort food,” some a little more weird.
If you’re looking for a special motivation this year, be advised that there’s more free entertainment than ever at the grandstand. Also featured are two themed exhibits, one showing lions, tigers and reptiles, another portraying an alien invasion of a small town. For more information: http://www.clarkcofair.com.
Yes, there are ample reasons to visit Oregon on other weekends, but this weekend? Think about the bridge traffic, then think about your chance to learn more about and honor veterans, then think about the opportunity to engage in the most fun-filled event of the year in Clark County.
