Washington teachers earn the highest adjusted salaries in the country, but some critics say student achievement is not keeping pace. Vicki Murray of the Washington Policy Center argues for performance-based pay as test scores remain low statewide. https://clarkcountytoday.com/news/high-pay-low-test-scores-wa-teachers-earn-most-when-adjusted-for-cost-of-living/ #TeacherPay #EducationSpending #WashingtonSchools #StudentOutcomes #WPC #VickiMurray #NCTQ #WAed #PublicEducation

The 25th annual Merwin Day of Fishing welcomed over 300 kids with disabilities to enjoy a supportive, fun-filled day at the Merwin Fish Hatchery near Woodland. Hosted by Pacific Power and the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife, the event included fishing, a barbecue, and plenty of smiles. https://clarkcountytoday.com/youth/families-celebrate-25-years-of-inclusive-fishing-at-merwin-day-of-fishing/ #MerwinFishingDay #InclusiveOutdoors #WDFW #PacificPower #WoodlandWA #YouthEvents #FishingWithKids #DisabilityInclusion #CommunitySupport

Paul Valencia reflects on why In-n-Out Burger fans are lining up for more than just a burger. From the Ridgefield location’s nearing debut to Vancouver’s construction, this column dives into memories, fan culture, and the loyalty that runs deep. https://clarkcountytoday.com/opinion/opinion-in-n-out-burger-is-so-much-more-than-fast-food-for-so-many-of-us/ #InNOutBurger #RidgefieldWA #VancouverWA #BurgerFans #PaulValencia #SteveMathis #FoodCulture #RestaurantOpening #FastFoodObsession #1STINO

Stephen Lloyd Randol, a Navy veteran and longtime Clark County resident, passed away on June 15, 2025. He leaves behind a legacy of service, family, and faith. His life will be honored at Northcrest Community Church on July 26. https://clarkcountytoday.com/people/obituary-stephen-lloyd-randol-1945-2025/ #Obituary #ClarkCounty #Veteran #StephenRandol #USNavy #NorthcrestChurch #VancouverWA #PinochlePlayer #FamilyMan

Mark Harmsworth of the Washington Policy Center critiques Washington’s latest budget update, highlighting that revenue growth stems from new taxes rather than economic strength. He urges lawmakers to pursue fiscal discipline and structural reform over short-term fixes. https://clarkcountytoday.com/opinion/opinion-washingtons-june-2025-budget-revisions-revenue-up-spending-up-more/ #WashingtonPolicyCenter #WAbudget #SmallBusiness #TaxReform #Opinion #EconomicForecast #BandOtax #StateSpending #MarkHarmsworth

Washougal fourth graders used science and math lessons to build birdhouses with the help of high school and middle school mentors. Supported by a local grant, the project encourages real-world learning and community collaboration. https://clarkcountytoday.com/youth/washougal-fourth-graders-take-flight-with-hands-on-birdhouse-project/ #WashougalSchools #BirdhouseProject #STEMeducation #YouthLearning #CommunitySupport #StudentMentorship #HandsOnLearning #ScienceInAction

Doug Dahl explores the rules for pedestrians at signal-controlled intersections and clarifies how walk signals and countdowns differ from standard traffic lights. His column encourages safer behavior for both drivers and walkers. https://clarkcountytoday.com/opinion/opinion-pedestrian-control-signals/ #Opinion #PedestrianSafety #TrafficLaws #DougDahl #TheWiseDrive #Crosswalks #WashingtonState #WalkSignal

Bob Zak shares his concerns about the imbalance of power in Clark County’s Charter, echoing other contributors' critiques. He also supports John Ley’s preference for C-TRAN over light rail and warns about low ridership and funding. https://clarkcountytoday.com/opinion/letter-how-can-five-part-time-legislators-without-research-support-or-reliable-access-to-information-serve-as-an-effective-check-on-six-full-time-elected-executives/ #Opinion #ClarkCountyCharter #JohnJay #JohnLey #LightRail #CTRAN #ClarkCountyWA #LetterToTheEditor

A new agreement between the Cowlitz Indian Tribe and Columbia River Mental Health Services will transition key behavioral health services into the Tribe’s care system, preserving access for thousands of patients. https://clarkcountytoday.com/news/cowlitz-indian-tribe-and-columbia-river-mental-health-services-announce-letter-of-intent-to-protect-behavioral-health-services/ #CowlitzIndianTribe #BehavioralHealth #CRMHS #ClarkCountyWA #MentalHealthCare #NativeHealthcare #ColumbiaRiver #NorthStarClinic

Clark County voters should expect ballots in the mail starting July 15 for the August 5 Primary and Special Election. Registration and replacement ballot deadlines vary — full details are at clarkvotes.org. https://clarkcountytoday.com/news/primary-and-special-election-important-information/ #ClarkCountyWA #Elections #PrimaryElection #VoteWA #VoterInfo #SpecialElection #ClarkVotes