New Weekend Shuttle Offers Connection to Hood River, White Salmon and Bingen Flavor, Fun, and Farmer's Markets
From pool dips to sips of wine: CAT’s new weekend shuttle offers a chance for fun-filled exploration of neighboring communities. But if you're planning to take advantage of this service, you'll need to act quickly – it ends September 6th!
From pool dips to sips of wine: CAT’s new weekend shuttle offers a chance for fun-filled exploration of neighboring communities.
Photo Credit: Cole Goodwin
Sponsored Content
By Cole Goodwin
White Salmon, WA, August 15, 2023– Since July, residents and tourists alike have been enjoying a seasonal weekend shuttle connecting Hood River, Oregon, White Salmon, Washington and Bingen, Washington. Run by Columbia Area Transit, (CAT) the weekend shuttle offers an economical and environmentally friendly way to travel between the two communities. But if you're planning to take advantage of this service, you'll need to act quickly – it ends September 6th.
The shuttle aims to boost local tourism and encourage economic activity by providing a direct link between two of the Columbia Gorge region's most vibrant towns and showcases the best of what they have to offer.
White Salmon Farmer’s Market has plenty to offer! Photo Credit: Emily Reed
Farmers markets, a popular destination for locals and visitors alike, are made even more accessible by the bus route. Shoppers can easily visit markets on both sides of the river, exploring a wider selection of locally grown fresh produce and artisanal goods while soaking in the lively atmosphere.
For White Salmon residents who live within the city limits, the bus route offers a hassle-free way to reach the Hood River Pool and use their free pool passes become even more valuable as residents can easily cool off during the summer heat without worrying about transportation.
The bus service promotes responsible and sustainable travel choices, too. Passengers can enjoy the scenic ride along the river without the stress of driving and parking. This is especially appealing for those visiting White Salmon’s new wine bar, Soca. By taking the bus, wine lovers can sample to their heart's content and still get home safely.
For those looking for non-alcoholic fun, White Salmon's newly opened Nativ Cafe, which serves artisan coffee, pastries, and soothing kava is at the top of the list of destinations.
Inside Nativ Cafe. Photo Credit: Cole Goodwin
Or if you’re looking to beat the heat with a sweet treat, Cool Beans, the town's new ice cream shop, tempts you with homemade ice cream sandwiches and locally roasted espresso.
Photo Credit: Cole Goodwin
Other attractions include Bingen's newly opened Gogi Grill, which serves up delicious Korean barbecue and the all time local favorite Beneventi’s Pizza.
For those looking for handmade artisan jewelry, incense, art, and some crystals for their collection Moon Mountain Highway has it all.
Riders can also take their dog on the bus to the Bingen Waterfront park for a romp on the waterfront, or enjoy a plunge into The Society Hotels indoor saltwater soaking pool, outdoor hot pool, cold plunge pool, or cedar sauna.
Also on the must see list is Margie’s Outdoor Store, lauded as “the most unusual store in the gorge” this is an ideal place to file a paranormal report and get a feel for paranormal activity in the area.
The new shuttle hopes to benefit everyone involved: locals gain better access to amenities, tourists have more convenient transport options, and businesses can increase their visibility.
“We’re very excited about connecting White Salmon/Bingen and Hood River by reducing transportation barriers on summer weekends. We look forward to continuing our partnership with MATS and the Cities of Bingen and White Salmon to provide this service!” said Amy Schlappi, Executive Director of Columbia Area Transit.
With only a month left in the summer season, now is the time to take advantage of this unique bus route. Whether you're a resident or a visitor, hop on the bus and explore the distinctive charms of Hood River and White Salmon before the weekend shuttle ends!
Check out the weekend shuttle schedule, stops, and nearby attractions at: https://www.ridecatbus.org/white-salmon/.
Photo Credit: Emily Reed
Need to travel between Hood River and White Salmon during the week?
Mt. Adams Transportation Services has you covered!
For their most current schedule and map visit:
https://gorgetranslink.com/transit-agencies/mt-adams-transportation-services/.
“Our routes will continue to run on weekdays throughout the year,” said Sharon Carter, Director of Mt Adams Transportation Services. “It’s a great way to get across the bridge, with or without your bike. And a great way to avoid parking issues, gas prices or the bridge toll.”
Looking to Ride Year Round?
To purchase an unlimited-ride annual GOrge Pass for fixed routes on CAT, The Link, MATS, & Skamania transportation visit: https://gorgepass.com/. The pass is good for a year from purchase. The pass costs $40 for adults and $20 for kids under the age of 17.
Tickets are going fast for “Little Shop of Horrors” at the Bingen Theater
The Columbia Gorge Orchestra Association is proud to present the musical sensation “Little Shop of Horrors,” directed by Joe Garoutte, with music direction by Dan Kenealy. Based on a cult sci-fi film from 1960, this “strange and unusual” musical is filled with fun and unforgettable tunes. It opens at the Bingen Theater (210 Oak St.) in Bingen, WA, on April 28.
Sponsored Content
by Columbia Gorge Orchestra Association
The Columbia Gorge Orchestra Association is proud to present the musical sensation “Little Shop of Horrors,” directed by Joe Garoutte, with music direction by Dan Kenealy. Based on a cult sci-fi film from 1960, this “strange and unusual” musical is filled with fun and unforgettable tunes. It opens at the Bingen Theater in Bingen, WA, on April 28, and runs three weekends, through May 13. Tickets are still available, but you should plan ahead and buy tickets soon before they sell out.
The Columbia Gorge Orchestra Association is a non-profit organization dedicated to promoting and presenting musical performances of the highest quality in the Columbia River Gorge region. With a commitment to artistic excellence and education, the Association brings the joy of music to audiences of all ages.
“Little Shop of Horrors” tells the story of Seymour, a down-on-his-luck florist, who raises a mysterious, possibly extraterrestrial, blood-thirsty plant that promises him fame, fortune and love…but at a cost. With infectious music by Alan Menken and lyrics by Howard Ashman, this beloved musical is sure to entertain audiences of all ages. The musical was made into a smash hit movie in 1986, directed by Frank Oz, with a cameo by Steve Martin as a sadistic dentist. A staple of school, community and professional theatres, “Little Shop of Horrors” was recently revived off Broadway, starring “Hamilton’s” Jonathan Groff.
Joe Garoutte and Dan Kenealy, the directorial team that brought you last year’s sold-out production of RENT, guide the talented cast of actors as they bring this dark comedy to life in a whole new way. The show promises to be a feast for the eyes and ears, filled with powerful vocals and a catchy pop score. While there’s more than a nod to the dark warnings that lie within, there’s also plenty of laughs to lull you just enough to become plant food if you’re not careful.
As always with CGOA Stages’ productions, “Little Shop of Horrors” features a cast of both familiar faces and talented newcomers.
Don't miss your chance to see “Little Shop of Horrors” at The Bingen Theater. Get your tickets now for a night of unforgettable entertainment. “Little Shop of Horrors” is rated PG.
“Little Shop of Horrors”' opens Friday, April 28 at 7 p.m.. Additional shows are April 29 and May 6, 11, 12, 13 at 7 p.m, and April 30 and May 7 at 2 p.m. Tickets are $30 for adults ($20 for CGOA members), $10 for youth ages 10-17, and $5 for kids under 10. Tickets are available at gorgeorchestra.org.
For information about all CGOA events, visit gorgeorchestra.org, or check out gorgeorchestra on Facebook and Instagram.
Support Local News
Stay up to date on local entertainment by supporting local news!
Entertainment: Cody Ricks Fundraiser on tap at Eagles/Elks in TD
A fundraiser for TD’s Cody Ricks who has undergone surgery and chemotherapy for cancer is on tap at The Dalles Eagles/Elks on Saturday, Jan. 21. The Ruby Friedman Orchestra plays Trout Lake Hall the same night. Comedian Sean Jordan will headline at the Bingen Theater on Friday, Jan. 20. Read the most complete entertainment listing for the Mid-Columbia Gorge here.
This Week in Gorge Entertainment
By Jim Drake
Cody Ricks fundraiser at TD Eagles on Sat., Jan. 21
Cody Ricks
The Dalles Eagles/Elks host a fundraiser event for Cody Ricks on Saturday, Jan. 21, to help with medical expenses. Sign up for a Doubles Cornhole Tournament, starting at Noon. Fundraising efforts continue with a Rib Night Special Dinner from 5-7 p.m. Ricks, an Apprentice Lineman, has undergone surgery and chemotherapy treatments since September. To learn more about Cody’s situation, click here.
Last Stop Saloon celebrates
Saturday, Jan. 21, Last Stop Saloon celebrates Cheers to 4 Years from 7-10 p.m. with live music, a sled and snowboard raffle, and more.
Friday, Jan 20, Jeff Carrell, 7 p.m.
Last Stop Saloon in The Dalles features live music with local favorites and NW regional bands.
Pink Martini plays HR Education Fundraiser
Pink Martini
Portland pop-jazz phenoms Pink Martini play the Hood River Middle School Auditorium on Saturday, April 22, at 7:30 p.m. The show is a benefit for the Hood River County Education Foundation. Main floor and balcony seating options available based on donation level. “Pink Martini was founded by bandleader Thomas M. Lauderdale in 1994 to provide beautiful and inclusive performances at fundraisers and galas for progressive causes, with a style inspired by Latin, big band, classical, and the Golden Age of Hollywood.”
Tickets available at:
Marbach photos celebrate 100 Years of State Parks
Photographs by Local photographer Peter Marbach celebrate “A Century of Wonder: 100 Years of Oregon State Parks,” on Saturday, Jan. 28, at 2 p.m. at the Hood River County Library.
“For 100 years, Oregon State Parks have provided spaces for recreation and enjoyment in various natural environments across the state. In celebration of the centennial of the state parks system, the Oregon Historical Society commissioned photographer Peter Marbach to document the beauty and geographic diversity that can be found throughout Oregon’s natural spaces. This talk will highlight a selection of Marbach’s contemporary photographs, showing numerous ways that Oregon State Parks have preserved natural and historic sites for Oregonians and visitors to appreciate for many years to come.”
Trivia Night at Double Mountain
Double Mountain Brewery in Hood River welcomes local and regional acts to the stage:
Wednesday, Jan. 18, Humpday Trivia with hosts Nikki and Whitney (aka Whikki). Sign-ups start at 6 p.m., and trivia begins at 6:30 p.m. No cover charge.
Eagle Watch Jan. 21
The Dalles Dam Visitor Center presents the 13th annual Eagle Watch on Saturday, Jan. 21, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. This is a free, family-fun event with easy access to viewing areas.
‘Great Gatsby’ awards show Jan. 19
The Dalles Chamber of Commerce presents the Distinguished Citizens Awards show on Thursday, Jan. 19, at the Fort Dalles Readiness Center. Doors open at 5:30 p.m. “Expect a 1920's themed gala: show off your best Great Gatsby impression, your Peaky Blinders wardrobe, your 3-piece suit, your sequins, furs, and Deco bling and celebrate the outstanding folks who make living here so special.” Tickets can be purchased at:
https://mms.thedalleschamber.com/mem.../evr/reg_event.php...
Growlerzz at Mt. Hood Meadows
See the “best jam band in the Gorge,” The Growlerzz, at Mt. Hood Meadows in the Vertical Room on Saturday, Jan. 21, from 2:30-5:30 p.m. Growlerzz is: Scott Denis, Mike Turley, Mike Rockwell, Steve Alford, and Paul Huffman.
Live music at Tabby’s Hole in One
Tabby’s Hole in One Clubhouse at the Hood River Golf Course presents live music with local and regional bands.
Wednesday, Jan. 18, Open Mic with Kerry Williams, 5-7:30 p.m.
Saturday, Jan. 21, Willy & Nelson Band, 7-10 p.m.
Saturday, Jan. 28, Growlerzz Band, 7-10 p.m.
Art Class at TD Library
Learn how to make a Silver Clay Leaf Pendant on Wednesday, Jan. 18, at 5:30 p.m. at The Dalles Library. If you want to bring a specific leaf, small leaves with a lot of texture work the best.
Teen Beach Party at HR Library
On Saturday, Jan. 21, kids ages 11-20 can attend the Teen Beach Party at the Hood River County Library. Expect beach games, snacks and a beach themed movie. The fun starts at 11 a.m.
‘Earth Portrait’ project at White Salmon Library
The White Salmon Library is featuring a collection of images by White Salmon artist Cyndi Strid in an exhibition titled, The Earth Portrait Project: "All Hands on Earth." On display now through Jan. 31.
‘Nerve Damage’ headlines punk-rock show
The River City Saloon in Hood River hosts a Punk Rock event on Friday, Jan. 27, with headline band Nerve Damage, onstage with a new album “Justice.” Also on the bill: Worms PDX (Artcore Punk), Los Mal Hablados (Latin Skacore) and Hired Hounds (Punk Rock). Music starts at 8 p.m., 21+, $5 cover.
Listen to Nerve Damage here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tccVYin1Ly4
Stephanie Schneiderman Trio at TD Art Gallery
Stephanie Schneiderman Trio
The Stephanie Schneiderman Trio brings an evening of folk, Americana and trip hop to The Dalles Art Center on Saturday, Jan. 28, starting at 7 p.m. “Schneiderman is one of the Pacific Northwest's most diverse and celebrated singer-songwriters, combining elements of folk, Americana, trip hop, and pop—into a beautifully dark and deeply introspective sound that is as fresh as it is compelling, Her acoustic trio features Jenny Conlee (Decemberists) on accordion and Keith Brush (Blue Cranes) on upright bass who lend their melodic, indie-rock sensibilities to her songs to create a magnetic live performance that old and new fans will revere.
Tickets at: https://www.thedallesartcenter.org/events/stephanie-schneiderman-trio
Live Music at Zim’s
Zim’s Brau Haus in The Dalles presents live local music.
Tuesday, Jan. 17, The Reddy Black Trio, 7 p.m.
Friday, Jan. 20, Rich & Blonde, 7 p.m.
Saturday, Jan. 21, Gunshy, 7 p.m.
Live music at Working Hands
Working Hands Fermentation in Hood River presents live music, trivia nights and more.
Friday, Jan. 20, Red Robe Revival (Orecana Bliscograss), 7:30 p.m.
Saturday, Jan. 21, Tyler John Hartman (pictured) & Christina Cortez-Bannick (Folk/Singer-songwriter), 7:30 p.m.
Sunday, Jan. 22, Open Mic hosted by Tim Decker, 6 p.m.
Live Music at Trout Lake Hall
Trout Lake Hall in Trout Lake, Washington is bringing live music back to the Historic building’s stage.
Saturday, Jan. 21, Ruby Friedman Orchestra, 7 p.m. (Free Show)
“The electrifying singer-songwriter Ruby Friedman has drawn acclaim with her bravura, stops-out club performances at Portland venues like Alberta Rose Theatre, Mississippi Studios, and LaurelThirst Public House.” Her music has appeared on programs for Disney+, PBS, Netflix, and FX. She has twice appeared at the New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival, and has toured with rock ’n’ roll legend Brian Wilson and Oscar-winning actor-musician Jeff Bridges.
Music and Movies at Mid Columbia Senior Center
The Mid-Columbia Senior Center in The Dalles presents the Movie of the Week Schedule for Fridays in January. Movies start 12:45 p.m.
Jan. 20: Father Goose (Cary Grant & Leslie Caron)
Pillow Talk with Doris Day and Rock Hudson
Jan. 27: Pillow Talk (Doris Day & Rock Hudson)
Mid-Columbia Senior Center
January Music Schedule; Music starts at 11 a.m.
Tuesday, Jan. 17, Jim Gordon
Wednesday, Jan. 18, Homeschool Group Skits
Thursday, Jan. 19, Tom Graff
Tuesday, Jan. 24, George Forya
Wednesday, Jan. 25, Billy Taylor
Thursday, Jan. 26, Tom Graff
Tuesday, Jan. 31, Jim Gordon
Scrabble Tournament at White Salmon Library
Scrabble enthusiasts are invited to participate in this fun and lightly competitive tournament on Thursday, 19, from 2-4:30 p.m. at the White Salmon Library. Two-player teams can sign up at www.fvrl.librarymarket.com/events. If you don't have a teammate, sign up anyway and they’ll pair you up.
Live Music at The Pines
The Pines Tasting Room in Hood River brings live music to the stage on Fridays from 6-9 p.m. with musical artists from around The Gorge.
Friday, Jan. 20, Ravin’ (Blues)
Friday, Jan. 27, Richard & Tova TIllinghast (Folk)
Chamber Music at HR Valley Christian
The Columbia Gorge Orchestra Association presents “Chamber Music in the Afternoon” at HR Valley Christian Church in Hood River on Sunday, Jan. 22, starting at 1:30 p.m. Expect “relaxing, intimate and inspiring soloists and small groups.” Programs will include string quartets, solo cello with piano, duets and a special appearance by the Riverside Community Church Chancel Choir performing Eric Whitacre’s “Sing Gently,” accompanied by a string quartet. Free admission/donation at the door.
The Dalles Art Center announces 2023 Exhibitions
The Dalles Art Center has announced its 2023 Exhibition lineup, starting with February’s “Bringing Out Our Best: Member Exhibition,” billed as “an exhibition of TDAC's artist members from the Gorge and the region.” The show will be juried by Yvonne Pepin-Wakefield. Don’t miss the Opening Reception on Thursday, Feb. 2, at 5:30 p.m.
Author Talks hosted by The Dalles Library
Virtual Author Talks is a series of author interviews hosted by The Dalles Library and the Library Speakers Consortium. Sign up to join in these informative online seminars with Notable and Best Selling authors.
Next session: Tuesday, Jan. 17, at 11 a.m. with Dana K. White, author of “Organizing for the Rest of Us.”
https://libraryc.org/wascocountylibrary/21883
Tuesday, Jan. 31, 11 a.m. with Randall Munroe, author of “What If 2.”
https://libraryc.org/wascocountylibrary/22090
Thursday, Feb. 9, at 4 p.m., with Lana Harper, author of “Back in a Spell.”
Kivett Bednar at 64oz. Taphouse
On Wednesday, Jan. 18, Hood River’s 64oz Taphouse welcomes guitarist Blues-artist-producer Kivett Bednar. “Bring your dancing shoes for a grooving dancing good time.” Music starts at 7 p.m.
Sean Jordan Comedy at Bingen Theater
The Sean Jordan Comedy show makes a stop at the Bingen Theater on Friday, Jan. 20, featuring Sean Jordan, Dianna Potter and Thomas Lundy. Jordan has been named Portland’s Funniest Person by Willamette Week Magazine, has written for Comedy Central, and was named one of the “Comics to Watch” by Splitsider Magazine. Tickets at:
https://www.eventbrite.com/e/comedy-at-the-bingen-tickets-490695241677?aff=erelexpmlt
Live music at Solera
Glitterfox
On Tuesday, Jan. 17, Solera Brewery in Parkdale welcomes live music with Glitterfox. Glitterfox is an indie Americana project named one of Portland’s “Best New Bands” by Willamette Week in 2022. Music starts around 6 p.m. Minors are welcome until 8 p.m.
Jazz at Hood River Hotel
The Hood River Hotel in Hood River presents Jazz in the Lobby from local and regional players on Saturday nights, 7:30 - 10 p.m.
Big Britches presents ‘Ripcord’
The 2023 live theater season for Big Britches Productions kicks off on Friday, Jan. 27, with “Ripcord.” Critics say David Lindsay-Abaire’s “Ripcord” is “an entertaining story of two elderly women thrown together by a comic cosmic force, possessed of a wicked sense of humor.” Directed by Joe Garoutte. Performances at The Bingen Theater, Bingen, Wash. Performances continue Jan. 28, 29, Feb. 3, 4, 5, 10 and 11. Tickets and Season Passes on sale at:
https://www.bigbritches.org/season-tickets
Live Music Mondays at Everybody’s Brewing
Live Music Mondays at Everybody’s Brewing in White Salmon showcases the best in local and regional bands. Music is 6-8 p.m.
Jan. 23, Forrest VanTuyl (Acoustic Country-Folk)
Jan. 30, Al Hare (Guitarist, Singer-songwriter)
LOR Watch Party at HR Library
The Lord of the Rings Watch Parties are scheduled to start on Friday, Jan. 13, at 4 p.m. at the Hood River Library. The Trilogy continues on Jan. 20 and Jan. 27.
