August 7, 2026

NEW BUSINESS SPOTLIGHT

DAYTON BOOKS AND GIFTS


We are thrilled to welcome a new adventure to downtown Dayton! Dayton Books and Gifts offers a curated selection of new and used books, regional titles, and specialty teas. The store is located at 232 E. Main Street or via phone at 509-704-1261. You can also visit their website by clicking HERE. Get ready to find your next favorite book and fun gift at Dayton Books and Gifts.


Dayton Books and Gifts will have a soft opening on Monday August 10th. Please stop in and give them a hearty welcome to Dayton!

HAPPENINGS

Swim the Snake 2026


Get ready for the ultimate open-water challenge! Swim the Snake is back, bringing together swimmers and paddlers of all levels for an unforgettable race across the Snake River. Whether you're aiming for a personal best or just in it for the thrill, this is your chance to conquer the currents! 


Join us at the Starbuck / Lyons Ferry Marina KOA & Lyons Ferry State Park for an epic in-person swimming and/or paddling event by kayak or paddle board Saturday August 8th.


Make sure and visit the Snake River Grill for lunch after the event. They have a great menu with some great eats and treats!


For more information, click HERE!

COMING to DAYTON!

Lewis & Clark 2026 Military Vehicle

Preservation Association Convoy (LC’26)


Historic Military Vehicles Bring “History in Motion” to Communities Along the Lewis & Clark Route. The Lewis & Clark 2026 Military Vehicle Preservation Association Convoy (LC’26) is a multi‑state journey of historic military vehicles traveling from Bismarck, North Dakota, to Fort Stevens, Oregon. Owned and restored by members of the Military Vehicle Preservation Association (MVPA), approximately 50 historic military vehicles will convoy across five states, covering 2,100 miles over 21 days.


The convoy will make a stop in Dayton on Monday August 10th at approximately 11am. You are invited to come out and preview these restored military vehicles at the Columbia County Courthouse.


MVPA cross‑country convoys bring the theme “History in Motion” to life. For generations, military vehicles have supported service members and ensured mission success. Today, these same vehicles serve as moving historical exhibits, connecting the public with the stories, technology, and people behind America’s military history.


The purpose of the LC’26 Convoy is educational and commemorative. Through planned public displays, ceremonies, parades, and viewing opportunities when scheduled, communities along the route will have opportunities to see historic military vehicles up close and engage directly with the individuals who preserve and operate them. 


A central focus of MVPA convoys is honoring veterans. The vehicles often serve as a bridge between past and present, helping veterans reconnect with their service experiences while creating opportunities to share their stories. MVPA members value every opportunity to say thank you—and to listen to firsthand accounts of history in motion.


Historical Context: Lewis & Clark

The original Lewis & Clark Expedition of 1805–1806 was a defining journey in American history, establishing lasting geographic and cultural connections across the western United States. The LC’26 Convoy follows key portions of this historic route. 


About the Military Vehicle Preservation Association (MVPA)

The Military Vehicle Preservation Association is an international nonprofit organization for military vehicle enthusiasts, historians, preservationists and collectors interested in the acquisition, restoration, preservation, safe operation and public education of historic military transport. 


Quick Facts

When: July 26 – August 15, 2026

Convoy length: 21 days, 2,100 miles, 5 states, averaging 100 miles per day

Route: Bismarck, ND to Fort Stevens, OR – Military History Connection: Fort Mandan, ND to Fort Clatsop, OR

Vehicles: Approximately 50 historic military vehicles from WWII to the present

Participants: MVPA members who collect, restore and preserve historic military vehicles Theme: History in Motion

Public Access: Public viewing opportunities vary by location   

Columbia County Fair 2026


Let’s see what you’ve got, Columbia County! From your best garden vegetables and homemade goodies to your finest artwork, crafts, flowers, and more, bring your talents to the Columbia County Fair in Dayton and “luau” your best work into the competition!


Join us for Barnyard Luau at the Columbia County Fairgrounds September 11, 12, & 13. If you want to enter your exhibits in the Fair, the Fair Premium book is your complete "How To" guide with instructions, details and deadlines for participation. Premium books can be picked up at the Columbia County Extension Office located at 139 E. Main Street (Monday-Thursday) or at the Dayton Chronicle located at 163 E. Main Steet, Dayton.