Stories by Monika Spykerman

Columbian staff writer

Community Resource Fair planned for Aug. 7 in Ridgefield

July 26, 2024, 5:55am Business

WorkSource and FVRLibraries will co-host a Community Resource Fair from 4:30 to 6:30 p.m. Aug. 7 to showcase local resources for employment, education and health care. Read story

Pacific Power crews are using drones to monitor equipment and facilities to prevent forest fires.

Drones deployed to help prevent wildfires in Southwest Washington

July 25, 2024, 6:36pm Clark County News

Pacific Power is using drones this summer to inspect equipment and facilities in Washington, Oregon and California in the hopes of preventing forest fires. Read story

People stroll among classic cars Friday, during one of Alderbrook Park’s regular Friday night cruise-ins.

Clark County car enthusiasts are stocking this summer with cruise-ins and shows

July 25, 2024, 6:05am Clark County Life Updated 1 day ago

Car shows and cruise-ins have been a staple of Clark County summers since the 1950s, when high school students began “cruising the gut” down Vancouver’s Main Street, showing off their sweet rides. Read story

The Cedar Creek Grist Mill holds a series of sampling events every year. Blueberry Pancake Day is a chance for visitors to check out the historic mill and taste food made as it was in the late 1800s, with fresh ground flour and local berries.

Try this: 4 Days of Aloha, Camas Days Hometown Festival, Blueberry Pancake Day

July 25, 2024, 6:05am Clark County Life

Five things to do this week Read story

Perfect for potlucks or get-togethers, this chilled, layered Chocolate Bliss is a little bit messy and a lot delicious.

Follow your (chocolate) bliss: Can you really have too many cool, creamy desserts in the summertime?

July 24, 2024, 6:05am Clark County Life

When I was in high school, our family spent a week with my mother’s side of the family on my great-aunt Marilyn’s cotton farm in Wichita Falls, Texas. One night, Marilyn and my great-uncle Wendel hosted a big family potluck. Everyone brought something. There were the usual suspects: fried chicken… Read story

Presto pesto: Peas, spinach and basil mix with pasta for simple supper

Blend peas, spinach, basil, garlic and lemon juice into this punchy summer pesto.

Many years ago I attended a “knitters and natters” knitting circle at a friend’s house. It was a lively group of creative, clever and accomplished women. We’d bring a potluck dinner and the host would make cocktails. The cocktails did not help with the knitting, but they sure helped with… Read story

Vancouver’s close-up: Film showcase puts spotlight on city, local filmmakers

Silver Keys Media produced the film “The Matahari Agency: Seeds of Deception.” (Contributed photos)

Vancouver USA might not be known for its thriving film industry, but our corner of Southwest Washington is making its mark on the silver screen. The work of several local production companies will be highlighted at the first Vancouver Film Showcase, 7 p.m. Thursday at the Kiggins Theatre. Read story