Stay Chill using the Grill & other Cool Hacks

From Energy Trust of Oregon:

With the summer season starting, it’s a great time for Oregonians to take some small steps to keep their home cool and their energy bills cooler. And, with temperatures heating up and more than three-fourths of Oregon already in some stage of drought these low- and no-cost cooling and water-saving tips are sure to provide some much-needed relief.

With temperatures expected to hit 116 degrees Fahrenheit on Monday in The Dalles and 111 in Hood River, here are some cool tricks for the season.

1. Power down heat-generating devices

• Home appliances, electronics and incandescent light bulbs create heat when on. Power down and consider upgrading to LED lights, which operate more efficiently and don’t give off excess heat.

• Skip the oven and use the microwave, stovetop, or grill outside. Not that you need an excuse to have a barbeque!

2. Get strategic with your windows

• Less light = less heat. Close windows, blinds, shades and curtains to keep heat outside. Light-colored window coverings also help reflect heat away.

• Close windows and window coverings in hot weather during the day to keep hot air out. Open windows at night or early morning to let cool air in.

• Consider planting trees or tall shrubs to filter sunlight before it enters your home.

3. Join the fan club

• In with the cold and out with the hot! Place a fan in the window to keep air moving and help you feel cool by pulling cool air in and drawing warm air out. Try using a box or window-mounted fan on the shady side of your home to draw in cool air. A second fan on the opposite side of the room or house can blow hot air out.

• A ceiling fan can help circulate cool air from your air conditioning, allowing you to raise the thermostat setting and still stay comfortable. If you buy a new ceiling fan, choose an ENERGY STAR®️ qualified model (available as a light/fan combination).

4. Keep hot air out and cool air in

• Sealing air leaks and insulating your home can reduce cooling and heating costs while making your home more comfortable all year long.

• Add caulk or weatherstripping around drafty doors and windows and seal holes or cracks hidden in attics, basements and crawlspaces with caulk, spray foam or weatherstripping.

• Add insulation, but seal air leaks first. Leaks make insulation less effective.

5. Make the most of air conditioning!

• When no one is home, set the air conditioner or heat pump thermostat a few degrees higher than normal. When you are home set the thermostat to help you feel cooler without using too much energy.

• Check the system air filter regularly and change it when it looks dirty. A dirty filter makes the system work less efficiently and reduces airflow.

• Make sure all vents and registers are well-sealed where they meet floors, walls and ceilings.

6. Stay water-wise

• Install water-saving showerheads and faucet aerators.

• Wash and rinse laundry with cold water and only run full loads whenever possible.

• Use the water-saving setting on your dishwasher and scrape food residue off plates instead of using water to rinse.

In addition to these simple suggestions, there are many other ways to reduce energy use and save money year-round. Visit Energy Trust’s website for more no-cost and low-cost energy-saving tips.

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Small Biz, Big Heart: Five Element Acupuncture reopens its doors

Rachel Moore-Beitler and Five Element Acupuncture is reopening on the Heights in Hood River.

Rachel Moore-Beitler is the Gorge’s only Five Element Acupuncturist.

After a year out of the office doing outdoor house calls for clients, she is heading back to the treatment room next week on the Heights in Hood River.

Five Element acupuncture is unique because the needles are gently inserted and then removed right away, making for interactive sessions.

Rachel started her private practice in 2016 and has delighted in offering compassionate care to a variety of clients over the years.

“Each treatment is different because everyone’s stress shows up so differently. I love caring for caregivers because I believe we all win when we lift each other up.”

You can find out more on her website at www.rachel5element.com

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Center Market Grand Opening on Saturday Offers Free Food, Drink & Raffle in East TD

Joson Singh has opened a second Center Market in The Dalles. The new mid-sized grocery store with hot deli and made-to-order items such as burgers and sandwiches is at 1615 E. 12th Street - just west of Dry Hollow Road.

Joson Singh of The Dalles has opened his second Center Market at 1615 E. 12th Street, The Dalles after months of remodeling the former office space just west of Dry Hollow Road.

It is not the first time a grocery store has been located in this block. For years Dehart’s ran a successful grocery store in what is now MCMC Family Medicine.  

To celebrate months of hard work, Singh said they will be holding a grand opening on Saturday, April 3rd from 6 a.m . to 9 p.m. The new mid-sized grocery store and hot deli will be offering free coffee, soda and food items throughout the day. There will also be a raffle. 

The store began a soft opening on Wednesday, March 3, as they are putting together several new food and beverage offerings at the store within a menu of cook-to-order sandwiches. 

The new store features fresh fruit and a juice bar.

For example, the store will feature fresh-squeezed juices such as apple and orange, fresh cold sandwiches, burgers and fries, and wraps. 

And it’s not your usual fare. For example, you can order a Marsala Chicken Burger or a pastrami sandwich.  (See menu items in photos at bottom of story.)

“We’re trying some new things,” Singh said, of the deli and juice bar.

A ton of work has gone into the building, and it has fresh finishes throughout.  

Standard favorites such as a quick bite to eat from the hot deii is also offered at the new store.

The remodel started back in November, but contractors were able to quickly bring the project to fruition.

The New Center Market also features many of the original items that have made their Walnut Street location so popular in West The Dalles. The store features a large beer case featuring a good variety of craft beers as well as macros. There is also 12-feet of linear floor space dedicated to a variety of wines. And the familiar hot deli with to-go items such as corndogs and burritos is also being offered. 

And of course, there are groceries and household items such as shampoo and razors. 

This is Singh’s third store in The Dalles. In addition to operating Center Market on Walnut Street, he also has the Sasquatch Smoke Shop & Vape Supply at 802 Chenowith St.

A well stocked beer case with micros and macros is a standard feature at Center Market.

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Free Hiring and Training Webinar for Small Businesses

4 Proven Steps for Attracting, Training, and Retaining Quality Staff Who Accelerate the Growth of Your Business

Samantha Irwin of Kaizen Coaching & Consulting can help you transform your hiring process.

By Samanth Irwin

Hiring. Is that a four-letter word to you? This 90-minute webinar teaches four steps to help transform and improve your hiring and training process. No more wasting time, resources, and money in your hiring and training process. You CAN feel empowered, energized, and excited about creating a team that is invested and contributes to your business success!  

In this webinar you’ll learn

1. Mindset: The mindset shift that needs to happen in order to reduce your stress around hiring
   

2. Attracting: The characteristics and qualities of the people you want to attract, where these people are, and what they want
   

3. Bait: How you can easily use your existing tools to add a few easy steps that will make sure the most highly qualified and interested people are sitting in front of you for an interview
   

4. Training: The key differentiator that needs to be trained in order to really equip staff to become engaged and excited contributors to your business growth

The webinar is on Feb. 17th and 19th, registration required.

For details about what will be covered visit: https://kaizen.zone/masterclassregistration/

Or email Samantha@Kaizen.Zone Samantha is a local business coach and consultant, former owner and developer of the Historic Balch Hotel.  She helps small businesses to scale and is passionate about the power of employee training!

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6 Ways to Celebrate Love Locally This Valentine's Day!

Looking for a way to celebrate a wintery Valentine’s Day this year? Here are some ways you can show your community, yourself, and your partner some love this Valentine's Day. 

6. Win a Free Boudoir Photo Shoot 

View fullsize

An intimate portrait taken by Joy Reyneke Photography

Joy Reyneke enjoys seeing her clients feel beautiful in their own skin.

Get treated to a magazine style photoshoot experience!

Enjoy the ultimate self-love and beauty experience and enter to win a free boudoir photo shoot from local award winning photographer Joy Reyneke!

Her ability to relate with and direct clients allows her to create the most authentic and incredible images you’ve ever seen.  

“This is my way of spreading love and giving back to the community this Valentine’s Day,” said Joy Reyneke. “I think sometimes we can get so caught up in the whole you have to have a partner on V-Day or you’re nobody mentality- I know I did when I was younger and single. So I really wanted to give something back to the single people on Valentine's Day this year.”

A stunning portrait from Joy Reyneke. View more examples of Joy’s work here.

“A boudoir photo shoot is a great way to show yourself and your body some self-love. Plus it’s a lot of fun! We do costuming, hair, make-up, and post photo editing- the whole shebang so that our clients get the full body positive glamour experience.” 

About Joy Reyneke Photography

Joy Reyneke is a magazine style photographer for the everyday person. She has been a portrait photographer for over 15 years. Her award-winning work, acclaimed style, and service-focused approach have quickly distinguished Joy as the go-to gal for clients who want extraordinary images. 

How to Enter to Win

How to Enter to win a fabulous $1250 boudoir photography shoot GIVE-AWAY for a lucky SINGLE woman or man.

1. Comment on Joy’s Giveaway Post on FB and say why you think you deserve an amazing photoshoot experience. What do you love about yourself?
2. LIKE Joy Reyneke’s FB page if you haven't already.
3. SHARE with a Friend
4. The most IMPORTANT go to my website and fill out my Contact form, and copy and paste in your message of self love. Link.

Rules are pretty simple.
You must be over 21 years.
And the shoot is for only one person.
The shoot will take place at 421 E 2nd Street, The Dalles OR.
The shoot will take place before April 15, 2021.

Cost: FREE ($1250 value)

5. Stay Present, Build Intimacy, and Reclaim Desire with Couples Counseling

Making your partner a delicious breakfast can be a great way to show them that you care about their well being.

This Valentine’s Day Give the gift of staying present, building intimacy, and reclaiming desire in your relationship. 

Present Tense Relating works with couples to make the relationship work for EVERYONE involved.

Whether you’re going through a hard time or just want to do a check-in on your relationship goals Jonathon Chiaravalle, MA, LPC at Present Tense Relating is a licensed professional counselor with a listening ear and all the answers you need. 

“We provide non-denominational counseling and specialize in relationships, sexuality, trauma care, depression, and anxiety. ” said Jonathon Chiaravalle. 

Relationships are fulfilling yet challenging. 

And Valentine’s Day can bring a lot of pressure and sometimes create confrontation in relationships. 

“I teach relationship skills, help couples process emotions and have a style of "Caring Confrontation" to make their relationships the most successful they can be. I help and encourage my clients to develop tools and skills for success in their life and relationships.”

“Relationships can be difficult. Let’s start working together to make them better.” said Jonathon Chiaravalle. “And For a fun Valentine's Day activity go to 5LoveLanguages.com to take the quiz and learn more about yourself and your partner!”

Schedule a free 15 minute consultation today by calling (541) 705-7045. 

About Jonathan Chiaravalle

Jonathon Chiaravalle, MA, LPC is a Licensed Professional Counselor at Present Tense Relating in The Dalles. He has studied relationships and sexuality for over a decade and who’s worked in the field of human services since 1988. He works with straight and LGBT+ couples and clients to help them improve their lives and achieve their relationship goals. 

Please check out PresentTenseRelating.com to learn more.

4. Treat Yourself to 5 Star Fine Dining at Home

Baldwin Saloon’s Valentine’s Day Meal Kit. Choose from Slow Roasted Cod or Pork Tenderloin.

Get ready to deliver a fine dining experience in your own home that takes only minutes to prepare. 

Baldwin Saloon is back at it again with not one but TWO NEW Take-Home Meal Kits specially made for a delicious and nutritious Valentine’s Day. 

This is the perfect option for even the most cooking-phobic person who wants to do something truly unique and nourishing this Valentine’s Day. 

Valentine’s Day Meal Kit #1

Enjoy Slow Roasted Cod with sauce piquant, confit potatoes, mustard onions and perfectly creamy Truffled Cauliflower Soup, with roasted cauliflower, cream, and black truffles. Followed by a very special dessert of Red Velvet Cake with dark chocolate glaze and strawberry coulis that will have you feeling the romance in every one of your tastebuds. 

Cost: $38

Not into fish?

Get Valentine’s Day Meal Kit #2

Enjoy delicious Pork Tenderloin with roasted brussels sprouts and apples, delightful almost sinful bacon carrot jam, and chimichurri. The tenderloin pair perfectly with Truffled Cauliflower Soup, with roasted cauliflower, cream, and black truffles. Followed by a very special dessert of Red Velvet Cake with dark chocolate glaze and strawberry coulis that will have you feeling the romance in every one of your tastebuds.

Each Take-Home Meal Kit comes with simple instructions that are so easy to follow it’s almost ridiculous. Follow them to the ‘T’ to impress your partner, your friends, and your loved ones with savory and sweet fresh-from-the-farm foods, gorgeous plating, and flavor combinations you didn’t even know you needed.

Cost $38

Order Here to pick-up your meal kit on Saturday February 13th.

Not sure what they like to eat? Get them a gift card!

Or learn more about their upcoming Madri Gras Special and more at Entreez.com. 

About Baldwin Saloon

The Baldwin Saloon has a long history of satisfying tastebuds in The Dalles, stretching back to the original Baldwin Brothers who originally established the saloon in 1876. To learn more read CCC News article about the new owners and check out CCCNew’s review on the Baldwin Saloons Meal Kits to see for yourself just how easy it really is to have fresh five-star food-FAST. 

3. Dress Up and Stress Down with Acupuncture and Swarovksi Crystal Ear Bling! Auriculotherapy

An ear that has been treated to a special auriculotherapy treatment!

Dressing up can add a special feeling to any experience.

Get your glow on for days and give your ears a sparkly boost on this special date of healing and relaxation.

Treat yourself and loved ones to the healing powers of acupuncture and auriculotherapy with a special Valentine’s date for one (or two) at Cascade Acupuncture Center

Purchase Your Package Experience today or learn more here.

Love Yourself Acupuncture and Auriculotherapy for One or 

Valentine’s Day Acupuncture for Two

Give the gift of health to yourself and loved ones. Relax and heal the body, mind and spirit with Cascade Acupuncture’s very special Valentine’s Package for singles, couples and BFF’s. 

Enjoy ease as experienced professionals utilize a simple technique to place sparkling Swarovski ear seeds onto special pressure points of each ear. The non-invasive application lasts for days to calm your anxieties and invite relaxation. 

After a great session of healing and relaxation, taking home a gift bag of delectable non-GMO chocolates - to share or not to share - will be your only question!!

Purchase Your Package Experience today or learn more here.

Cost: $ 37.50 - $75

Give a gift certificate that gives back to the community.

For every $25 gift certificate purchased, Cascade Acupuncture Center will donate 20 items to the local food bank.  

For every $50 or more gift certificates, Cascade Acupuncture Center will donate 40 items to the local food bank and the purchaser will receive a Free Happy Hour acupuncture treatment!

Schedule your special healing experience today at CascadeAcupuncture.org or by calling 387-HEAL.

About Cascade Acupuncture

Cascade Acupuncture Center is based in The Dalles and Hood River. Their health care approach is based in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), which is an ancient medical system that has been practiced for more than five thousand years. TCM is a holistic medical model that always addresses both the physical and emotional areas of health imbalances at the same time. TCM includes Acupuncture, Chinese Medical Pulse Diagnosis, and Chinese Herbal Medicine and has the unique capacity to effectively diagnose and cure illness without the possible side effects of many other medications and procedures. 

2. Give the Gift of Migraine Relief 

Daith piercings may help with migraine relief! To learn more about Daith piercings and what to expect by checking out this helpful information from Heathline.com.

Does Valentine’s Day gifting feel like a real headache? 

Give the gift of a migraine relieving piercing!

Msfitz in The Dalles is home to professional piercers that are waiting to get you or your loved one the migraine relief they need this Valentine’s Day. 

This is a perfect gift for the person who’s tried everything to get migraine relief and is ready to embrace alternative treatment options and get some shiny new jewelry in the process.

If your significant other has been hinting about jewelry or wanting a new piercing this is an easy way to impress them by nailing both categories at once. 

Migraine relieving piercings are called ‘Daith’ piercings and are a fun way to decorate your ears and benefit your health! 

To learn more about Daith piercings and what to expect by checking out this helpful information from Heathline.com.

Not interested in piercings? 

Msfitz has an incredible range of other miscellaneous items like jewelry, vapes, kratom, lamps, toys, movies and more!

About MsFitz

Msfitz is an established head shop that supplies vape, kratom, and piercings to The Dalles, OR. They also have an incredible supply of miscellaneous items such as lamps, toys, movies and more!

1. Wine & Dine Your Valentine and Enjoy a View of the Columbia River

Celebrate the love and romance in your life by pairing cozy fireside wine with love (and s'mores)!

Pair s’mores and your favorite wines with your Valentine!

Whether you’re celebrating Galentine’s Day, Valentine’s Day or something else- no gift pairs quite as classily with a romantically set table on a winter afternoon like locally grown wine from a boutique winery, with humble roots; and high end flavor that is uncanningly fearless, wild and free spirited as the land on which it grows and the wolves that grace it’s bottle. 

Join Tierra de Lobos at their winery in The Dalles on Saturday Feb 13th at 1:00 PM and Sunday Feb 14th at 12:00 PM for a celebration on their covered outdoor patio, illuminated by the firelight of cozy firepits, for an intimate (and social distancing safe) winter winery experience. 

Enjoy a lovingly curated charcuterie board, bottle of wine, and s'mores at your private table with the person or person(s) you most want to spend time with.

Tickets are $39 per couple or pair and tables are available by reservation ONLY. Tickets are almost sold out but are available now at TierradeLobos.com.

Reserve your wine and dine experience today while supplies last!

Come Dressed for Winter!

For Your Protection Tierra de Lobos has also provided the following covid-19 Guidelines for those who attend. Be sure to dress according to the weather and bring a blanket and you’ll have a great time!

Cheers to you Valentine!

Give the Gift of Luxury Wine Club Membership

Enjoy local wine when where and with whom you want with a special wine club membership from Tierra de Lobos. 

Two tiers of membership are available:

Valiente Club

Wolves are fearless creatures. Regardless of the situation, they don't let anyone intimidate them. If you are highly courageous and stay unique to yourself, then you are truly a wolf. This club is for those wolves that don't let anyone tell them what to drink, because you get to choose your own wines.

• 6 Bottles 3x/Year (member chooses wines)

• 20% OFF Wine

• 30% OFF Case Purchase

• 20% OFF Tasting Room Rental

• Free tastings for member + 3 guests (4 total)

• $25 Sign-Up Fee includes 2 Logo Glasses

Silvestre Club

Wolves are wild and free-spirited. If you live your life on your own terms without letting others interfere, then you are one of us. This club is for those that are happy and able to adapt to whatever life throws at them and know they'll enjoy anything that comes from Tierra De Lobos.

• 4 Bottles 3x/Year (winery chooses wine, customer may substitute 1 wine)

• $70 Billed Automatically Every Pick-Up Month (March, July & October)

• 20% OFF Wine

• Free tastings for member + 1 guest (2 total)

• $25 Sign-Up Fee Includes 2 Logo Glasses

Pick-up months are: March, July & October.
Both options include:

• Exclusive invitation to members-only events and pick-up parties.

• Access to members-only wines.

Visit Tierra de Lobos at their tasting room in The Dalles OR to sign up or learn more and contact them here. 

Need a good last minute gift? 

Treat your Valentine to a hot glass of mulled wine! Tierra de Lobos mulled wine package for $23 comes with everything you need to make a fresh batch at home! Love is in the glass.

Get a Mulled Wine Kit to take home! or Give Your Special Someone a Tierra de Lobos Gift Card and get 15% off your gift card purchase when you set the gift card amount at $20 or more.

About Tierra De Lobos

Tierra De Lobos Winery is a small operation from Dallesport Washington with a tasting room in The Dalles Oregon. Their winery is a 500sqf converted garage and is operated by 2 wolves, Adolfo and Gabino, who aim to make wines as purely as possible with minimal intervention or additives and to treat the land with respect and refrain from using any chemicals or fungicides in their vineyard. In appreciation for all the love and support they receive from our customers all around Oregon and Washington, they also donate a portion of their net sales to different non-profit organizations on a monthly basis.


Interested in having your event or special advertised with CCC News?
Give us a call or email Tiffany Carr at tiffany@columbiacommunityconnection.com

Miller goes 2.7 million miles without a ticket

Dennis Miller, a driver for Hattenhauer Distributing Co., hit his 25-year mark on Wednesday. He’s also tucked away 2.7 million miles trucking during that time, ensuring that we can too.

He just keeps truckin’ on

By Tom Peterson

The Grateful Dead emblem on the grill of the Hattenhaur’s Kenworth semitruck gives you a little insight into Dennis Miller.

He’s a Deadhead with a caring eye toward other drivers. He’s also a bit of a perfectionist, like a Jerry Garcia solo.

On Wednesday, Miller hit his 25-year anniversary with Hattenhauer Distribution Co. in The Dalles.

He’s 50.

That’s half of his life behind the wheel - 10,000 gallons of gasoline behind his back most of the time. 

2.7 million miles. No tickets. No accidents.

Before he started at 4 p.m. on Wednesday,  Alex Hattenhauer, Tanna Elliott and Rob Rush met Miller with a Big Green Egg barbeque; they were celebrating his landmark. 

Rob Rush, Alex Hattenhauer, Dennis Miller and Tanna Elliott pose next to the tractor-trailer that Miller spec’d out for hauling fuel to local gas stations. The group congratulated Miller on 25 years and 2.7 million miles without an accident or a ticket on Wednesday.

“You’ll have to have the whole crew over,” Alex said, ribbing Miller for some smoked meats. Nothing like a gift that keeps on giving.

“It has gone really fast,” Miller said of his time on the job. “Thanks for putting up with the mistakes over the years.”

“They’ve been few and far between,” Alex said.

Earlier in the day, Alex said he had a lot of compassion for what Miller does.

“What he does in the industry is pretty remarkable. He is safe and responsible and takes good care of the equipment. He has respect for people on the road, and he’s a good team player. I hope he keeps driving for us for another 10 or 15 years.

Miller helped Hattenhauer Distributing hit this half million mile safety Award.

“Drivers like Dennis are hard to find,” he said. “His services fly under the radar. He works nights and gets all this stuff done under the cover of darkness. When people fuel up their car, they don’t even know he’s been there. Fuel just magically comes out of the nozzle. It makes everybody’s life easier. There is a lot of logistics and hard work that goes into getting that fuel to the consumers. That’s what Dennis does.”

We may not all realize it, but a fuel tanker at capacity is around 100,000 pounds, and the load is not stable in its chemistry or in its container. Gasoline is volatile - meaning it evaporates easily creating vapor that is heavy and floats to the ground, and highly flammable. That’s why handlers are deadly serious about removing possible sparks or other forms of ignition. 

It’s hazardous work. And it takes a steady hand to keep the liquid stable in its tank while slowing down, speeding up, or taking corners.

To that end, Miller has been remarkable. 

It’s a feat that comes with some respect.

Hattenhauers gave Miller the responsibility of ordering the latest Kenworth after he put 1.2 million on his last truck.

Jerry Garcia is still blowing Miller’s mind and the Steal your Face emblem is front and center on the Kenworth he drives.

“This is my dream truck,” he said on Wednesday. It’s tailor-made. All the controls are on the steering wheel, and it’s enabled with Bluetooth. That’s so Miller can keep his eyes on the road without distraction.

It has a tuck-and-roll interior, and 11,250 gallons of gasoline hauling capacity- 9,800 in diesel. That’s because diesel weighs more.

Miller is on the road 12 to 13 hours most days, 100,000 plus miles a year.

Last night he was running into Northwest Portland to pick up a load of fuel to deliver to a Pacific Pride station in Clackamas. Then two more round trips from Portland to The Dalles to fill stations here in town.

And what about those seven Grateful Dead stickers on the rig?

“That band got me through a lot of miles,” Miller said. His Dead recordings are, of course, live shows, and he falls heavily to Scarlet Begonias and They Love Each Other.

Things were a bit different 25 years ago

“When I started here I was just a kid; they were all farm boys and log truckers,” Miller said of the drivers in 1996.

“I showed up in my VW Bug, and they all just looked at me, like, ‘who is this guy’,” he said. “I was living out of my VW bus at the time.”

Jim Hunt was Hattenhauer’s driver and fleet manager then.

“He was hard-nosed,” Miller said, noting he would travel with and train drivers. “He was all business. I always wanted to please him. One time I had to pick him up, and we were driving along, and I made a little buzz noise when I shifted, not a grind, a buzz.” 

Hunt woke up at the sound and eyed Miller.

Miller caught the attention of other drivers in 1996.

“He’s my ghost rider,” Miller said. “I always imagine him riding in the seat next to me. It makes me smooth and as good as I can be.”

Miller is driving in all seasons and situations in the Gorge. He recently had a beer bottle thrown at his rig on the upper deck of the Freemont Bridge in Portland when street racers took it over and stopped traffic.

Distracted drivers, ice, rain are all lurking to foul the no-accident record or worse. In December, Hattenhauer’s Roger Rose had to muddle his semi through the landslide near Ainsworth Park on I-84.  

“I have seen some horrible stuff,” Miller said. “In Memory of Ritchie” is written on the door of Miller’s semi. 

It refers to Ritchie Malcolm a driver who died on SR 14 when his fuel tanker hit a rock and rolled over. He was only 44. 

Miller shook his head.

He has seen some incredible acts of humanity as well.

In February of 2019, he and other drivers were stuck in an 18-hour shutdown on I-84 near Cascade Locks. 

Miller started helping other people chain up and offered drivers gas to fill their tanks, according to a KGW news story.

“It was important to me that everybody stayed warm and here I've got big fuel tanks that run my motor," Miller said in the story. "So I wasn't in danger of running out, so yeah, just keep everybody warm and happy and make the best out of it.”

Miller also captured photos of a couple from Cascade Locks handing out water and food to trapped drivers. The story went viral when he posted it to Facebook. 

Miller said he loved the job.  

“I’m so thankful the Hattenhauer’s took a chance on me,” Miller said. “So many things can go wrong. But they have stuck by me. That is why I am so dedicated to this family and this community.”

And The Hattenhauers may get their wish.

“Retire?” he said. 

“I’ve got three kids in college.” 

Side Notes:

Miller has two sons and a daughter, Chad, Zachary, and Alex. And his dedication to the Dead only seems to be growing. His home is covered, I mean covered, in concert posters. It’s good his partner Marty Hiser has a frame shop.  

Below is a little bonus track - a song that keeps Miller rolling.

Local Hemp Company Plants 250 Trees for Forest Fire Recovery

According to AmericanForest.Org 250 trees can provide the yearly oxygen supply for 125 people.

Sammy’s Woodland Smokes, an LGBTQ owned, smokable CBD hemp company located in The Dalles, OR has planted 250 TREES to restore forests in Oregon, Washington, and California, including those devastated by wildfire.

Pictured: Cole Goodwin, Executive Director of Sammy’s Woodland Smokes and Sammy Dog hanging out at The Dalles Skate Park. Sammy Dog is the inspiration behind Sammy’s Woodland Smokes. Goodwin said Sammy’s love of adventuring in the woods and her hip problems which have been dramatically improved through supplements, including the use of CBD inspired the creation of Sammy’s Woodland Smokes. “Sammy Dog inspires us to live a healthier lifestyle (including being nicotine free) and live close to the land,” said Goodwin.

The trees were planted through Sammy’s Woodland’s tree planting partnership with One Tree Planted, a non-profit organization focused on global reforestation, which brought in donations to plant over 10 million trees in 2020, nearly tripling the number of trees it planted in 2019. 

“We did our first tree planting for forest fire recovery in September and this month we have contributed the funds to plant 200 more trees in Oregon,” said Cole Goodwin, Executive Director and part business owner of Sammy’s Woodland. 

Every pack of Sammy’s sold contributes to reforestation efforts right here in the Pacific Northwest. 

“We couldn’t have planted these trees without the support of our customers and the efforts of One Tree Planted. We want to say thank you to One Tree Planted and to everyone who has supported us and our mission to provide an environmentally friendly, fast-acting CBD alternative to nicotine smoking products,” said Goodwin.

Contributed Photo. Sammy’s Woodland Smokes is hard at work smoking hemp and planting trees.

“250 trees might seem small compared to some big companies that are planting much more than that, but it still makes a big impact on the local level.” 250 mature trees can provide the yearly oxygen supply for 125 people.

“Our brand puts an emphasis on sustainability; we source our hemp from Oregon farmers, the filters in our smokes are 100% biodegradable, and a portion of proceeds from every pack sold go towards planting trees for healthy forests. We’ve made it a priority as a business to not only minimize and offset our carbon footprint, but to also give something back.”

Why Plant Trees?

Analysis shows that over 500,000 acres of Oregon forest cover has disappeared since 2000. That’s an area six times larger than the city of Portland and equal to more than half of Oregon’s designated state forests. 

Contributed photo. Oregon is home to many beautiful and iconic trees like Douglas Fir, Oregon White Oak, Ponderosa Pine, Western Red Ceder, Pacific Willow, Oregon Ash, Western Hemlock, Black Cottonwood and Big Leaf Maple.

“Deforestation is a big environmental, social, economic, and public health problem,” said Goodwin. “Trees help clean the air we breathe, filter the water we drink, and provide habitat to over 80% of the world's terrestrial biodiversity. They also provide jobs to over 1.6 billion people worldwide, absorb harmful carbon from the atmosphere, and are key ingredients in 25% of all medicines. In short: we need trees, and if everyone can do their part to plant even a few trees every year, we will be on track to large scale reforestation.”

“We love the outdoors, especially our native forests here in Oregon and Washington, which have seen some really tough fire seasons over the last five years,” said Goodwin.

“We’re proud to be doing our part to make our home states beautiful and keep our forests healthy. These forests are an invaluable asset to our communities and to our planet. And we’re very proud to be partnered with an organization that aids in local and global reforestation efforts.”

“The earth is our home. We’re proud to make taking care of it a priority.”

About Sammy’s Woodland Smokes
Sammy’s Woodland was formed in October of 2020 and started sales in April of 2020. However, starting a smokable CBD hemp company right at the start of the COVID-19 pandemic has had its challenges. 

Pictured: Shipping out customer’s orders and product samples to stores. SHOP NOW to order.

“It’s been a tough road for us - starting a smokable CBD hemp company right at the start of the COVID-19 pandemic was definitely not part of the plan. We shut down in March because we just weren’t sure whether it was going to work. But we decided to keep going for it. We believe in our product and in our mission and it’s kept us going. So, in May we resumed sales and have kept on hustling every day since. We still have literally no idea what an open market even looks like as a small business. We’ve never operated in a non-pandemic impacted market. But the industry is growing, and we’ve managed to keep smiling and keep our heads above water... Which is pretty good for a business that’s still in its first nine months of sales,” adds Goodwin. “We definitely expect to see more growth both in the number of trees we plant and in profits when we get out this pandemic.”

Interested in selling Sammy’s in your store? Learn more and order HERE.

Sammy’s are made with love.

“Sammy’s are made with love. We handpicked everything for this product. We chose the exact batch of hemp, which is grown here in Oregon. The papers, which are chemical-additive free, and the filters are biodegradable and don’t look like your average filter. People like that they can just throw their filters in their compost,” said Goodwin.

“We’re really pleased with the sales we’ve had and the feedback we’ve received. Overall it’s been really positive and has enabled us to plant trees right here in Oregon and Washington,” said Goodwin. “A lot of people say our product has helped them quit smoking and vaping nicotine which is amazing- I mean, just even the idea that we can compete with such an addictive product is wild. Others have told us that they like our product because CBD topicals and tinctures don’t work for them but smoking our product does. Smoking hemp allows CBD to enter the bloodstream almost instantly so it’s very fast-acting.”

Sammy’s won’t get you high.

Sammy’s Woodland Smokes won’t get you high as they contain hemp that is high in CBD but contains negligible amounts of THC, which is the compound found in marijuana that results in a ‘high’. 

“People really like that they can smoke it and not get high. Our product has less than 0.16% THC in it which is the lowest I’ve seen in U.S. smokable CBD products. People also like that our smokes completely natural hemp and chemical additive free,” said Goodwin.

Sammy’s Woodland Dreams Big

“Our goal is to plant 1 Billion Trees,” Goodwin laughed. “I don’t know; it’s quite a lot, really, but 250 is a good start. What can I say? We want to have a positive impact on our community and the world, so we might as well dream big.”

Buy Sammy’s Locally at

Steamtrain Glass in The Dalles
Pype’s Palace in Hood River

Or Online at
SammysWoodland.com

…

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Tax season open; get your money fast, but do it right

Tax season is upon us and Bruce and Brenda Derryberry of Books by Bren are available to make it quick and painless, offering both tax services and bookkeeping services. Brenda is certified to prepare taxes in all 50 US states.
Brenda Derryberry, EA , LTC / Oregon License # 33986C

As thousands are now receiving their W-2s from employers, the rush to get tax refunds is on, said Brenda Derryberry of Books by Bren. 

Derryberry, an enrolled agent with the IRS, and operating from a home office in The Dalles, said there are several options for receiving your refund.  We are offering appointments by ZOOM and pick-up service, as well as features such as DocuSign, in light of COVID. 

It’s your money. It’s time to get it back.

They have options for folks who do not have the cash to pay for the filing - payment can be taken out of the refund.  “It all depends on what a client wants,” she said.

Derryberry has been providing expedient income tax preparation and bookkeeping services with a personal touch since 2010. Having more than 10 years of experience in the industry, Brenda and Bruce have the knowledge and skills necessary to help the clients fulfill their tax-related obligations in a more efficient and less stressful way.

 Brenda is also a QuickBooks Certified ProAdvisor. “We provide bookkeeping services designed to make sure that your transactions are recorded properly and accurately, providing a smooth and stressless tax filing experience,” Brenda said. The service is cloud-based and customized to meet your needs.

 “Brenda's work is thorough and complete. She has never taken a shortcut and puts in
whatever amount of time is needed to make sure my taxes are filed correctly and with the largest refund possible. She's available to answer my questions year-round and she never makes me feel like I'm inconveniencing her. She has excellent customer service! I highly recommend Books by Bren” said Nicole Peterson.

 “I know the owner personally and can say with the utmost confidence that you are getting quality, reliable service when you work with Books by Bren. Don't settle for 2nd best, make the right choice and make an appointment today” said David Malakowski. 

Book your appointment at booksbybren.com
Phone: (541) 506-9153
Email: booksbybren@gmail.com

Let's all stay warm this winter

Snug as a bug in a rug with a little heat from the PUD’s Roundup program.

Northern Wasco County PUD just made it easier to help your neighbor. 

Our local power provider has created a Roundup program that easily lets you donate a few cents at a time to folks needing help with their power bill.

For example, if your total bill is $55.35, the utility would round up your bill to $56.00, with the extra $.65 cents being deposited into the Neighbor to Neighbor fund.

So why would you do that?

Because our neighbors could use a little financial help from time to time, especially during the winter when heating bills run higher. 

 This is not a welfare program.

It is for emergency situations and disbursed on a case-by-case basis - one donation per eligible household up to $125 in 12 months.

Eligibility is established according to federally defined poverty levels and verification of eligibility is determined by our local Mid-Columbia Community Action Council / Community Action Partnership (CAP) office at 312 E 4th St. in The Dalles.

How you can participate

You can enroll in Roundup two ways:

• Call our Customer Service Representatives, who can walk you through what is needed and email you the form to complete. Call 541-296-2226

• Or click here on the Donation Form, complete it, and mail it to our office or email it to customerservice@nwascopud.org  

Roundup is to address public-spirited needs in our community and offer financial aid to local individuals and families in need. Your donation will touch the lives of neighbors and strangers alike and help strengthen our bond as a community.

All contributions are tax-deductible.

Here is what the form looks like. Simple enough. Click here on the Donation Form, complete it, and mail it to the PUD office or email it to customerservice@nwascopud.org .

…

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Don’t just sell, succeed with a winning career

Sales are always easier with a great product and service to back it up. Ray Schultens Nissan has been able to offer the best vehicles and has been winning service awards for years. Schultens is looking for a career-minded sales consultant that wants to move up in the world. Employees at this company have advanced to the top levels of management. You could be next.

Sales Consultant - $45,000 - $60,000 a year

Ray Schultens Nissan is looking for a career-minded and self-motivated person that wants to move up in the world. We have employees that have advanced to the top levels of management in our company. Give us two years, and we will train you to further your career even if you choose a different path in life. 

This is a management training program. 

Sales Experience is not necessary - Schultens will train the right candidate. 

You are the right person if these things matter to you:

• Career growth

• Working in your community

• Pay Stability

What are the other benefits?

• Bonus programs worth thousands in addition to commissions on vehicle sales

• Matching 401K,

• Medical,

• Dental

• Vision

• Annual Bonus

• Employee pricing

• Closed Sundays and major holidays

• You work with Fun People

How To Apply

Driver’s License required and bilingual a plus! 

You can email your resume to Nissan Sales Manager David Scott at scott_d@schultensmotors.com or Sales Manager Austin Woolsey at woolsey_a@schultensmotors.com 

Please call David or Austin with questions at (541) 296-6191.

Ray Schultens Motors
2600 W. Sixth St., The Dalles

Wamic Family Riding high on Wheels of Hope

Mallory Morrow, at center holding flowers, was given a 2014 Ford Focus on Thursday through Wheels of Hope. She had been without a vehicle for two years. Her mother, Tia Morrow, standing at her right, nominated her for the car. Mallory lives in Wamic and now, with the vehicle, hopes to move to The Dalles where she can easily reach groceries and other needed supplies as well as childcare. Ray Schultens Motors and Bicoastal Media employees were there today to present her with the vehicle. She had no clue she was going to receive it, she said.

Mallory Morrow of Wamic thought it a bit strange when her mom called on Thursday and said she and her two young boys should come to The Dalles and spend the night and shop for Thanksgiving.

The 27-year-old had no idea. 

Her mom, Tia Morrow, is driven, she said, noting she usually gets what she wants. 

Mallory Morrow at the second she learned she was being given a Ford Focus.

So, Tia threw a little errand in the middle of the shopping today, Thursday, Nov. 12.

“She said she needed to pick up some car parts” at Ray Schultens Motors, Mallory said.

When they showed up at Schultens at 3:10 p.m. on Thursday, a group made up of Schultens Employees and  Bicoastal Media was waiting for her with flowers and a 2014 Ford Focus SE.

Mallory in her Ford Focus.

“This is Crazy,” Mallory said after she was given the keys to the vehicle in the Wheels of Hope giveaway sponsored by 22 local businesses.

Tia nominated her daughter for the vehicle, noting she was raising her boys, Marco, 4, and Makhail, 2, in Wamic - 45 miles from The Dalles.

For two years, Mallory has been borrowing cars from friends and family to do shopping or asking others to pick up groceries or prescriptions for her. 

In her nomination form, Tia said Mallory was falling short on hope and praying for a miracle.

She got one on Thursday. 

“We think it is very important to give back to the community,” said Sales Manager Austin Woolsey with Ray Schultens Motors. “There are a lot of families out there that could use a hand. And if we can contribute to improving somebody’s life, we need to do that. It’s nice to give a vehicle away to someone in the local community.”

Mallory said the independence of the vehicle was huge - noting she could now come to The Dalles where she would look for housing and find childcare. She was born and raised in The Dalles and graduated high school in 2012.

“This is a huge blessing, yeah completely,” she said.

Randy Haines from the KCFM 93.5 morning show interviews Mallory Morrow after she was given the vehicle.

The radio stations of Bicoastal Media, Gills Point S Tire and Auto, Ray Schultens Motors, Washington Gorge Action Program and Columbia Veterinary Hospital teamed up to help the Morrow family.  

Bicoastal Sales Manager Bill Nielsen said 24 nominations were made for this year’s Wheels of Hope. 

A panel of judges made up of representatives from Bicoastal, sponsors, and representatives of human service agencies selected Mallory.

This is the sixth year of Wheels of Hope. And it is six years of helping Gorge families. 

Wheels of Hope is also supported by Maupin’s Stoves and Spas, The Dalles Fruit Company, A Kidz Dental Zone, Crestline Construction, NW Natural, Gorge Granite Works, One Community Health, Jones Trucking and Implement, Mid Columbia Mobile Propane, Casa El Mirador, Downey Sleep Center, Google, Hood River Cherry Company, Holly Gove EXP Realty, The Dalles Holiday Inn Express, Bustos & Hernandez Construction and Infinite Graphix.

Jared Langford of State Farm Insurance in Hood River wrote Mallory her policy as well, and then dropped off a $100 cash gift for Mallory, Marco and Makhail.  

The Wildlife Superheroes of Rowena

Western Grey Squirrel that was orphaned, it has since rehabilitated and been released.

Sponsored by David Rodgers at Seal Kote Plus Inc. 

By Haley Mast

Juvenile American kestrel who has rehabilitated and been released.

Rowena wildlife clinic has been dedicated to helping injured animals for 20 years. Nestled in Rowena, this non-profit clinic is ready to assist and help native animals of the Columbia River Gorge. Injured animals brought to Rowena are gracefully cared for and released back into their natural habitat after being cared for. 

 “Wildlife rehabilitation is the recognition that our animal neighbors deserve our care. Each benevolent interaction encourages us to tread lightly in our landscape, to change our habits, making it easier for all species to share the planet” words from Rowena Wildlife Clinic.  

Ash Harris is a wildlife rehabilitator and has worked with the Rowena clinic for a year now. 

“We see about 200 injured animals a year,” said Harris. 

Rowena accepts native animals to the Gorge. They take in raptors, songbirds, waterfowls, some mammals, and occasionally stray-domesticated animals if found injured or sick. 

The Eagles 

There are currently two eagles healing at Rowena, a bald eagle, and a golden eagle. Both of them were found this last summer, 2020. 

The bald eagle was found caught tangled in fishing nets. It sustained injuries that cut down into its flesh, said Harris.  The bald eagle healed relatively quickly and the clinic will soon work with the Department of Fish and Wildlife to release it back into the wild. 

 The golden eagle is a juvenile female bird who was found by farmers in a field in Dufur. The farmers contacted Rowena Wildlife with concerns about the bird allowing them to walk up to it while it was showing other strange behavior. Harris said once the bird was brought into the clinic there were instant signs of poisoning, specifically lead. 

Photo credited to Calley Lovett. Golden Eagle who is under rehabilitative care.

“She had 6 times the amount of lead in her blood than the normal measurement,” said Harris. 

Harris said it is under the assumption that the golden eagle got poisoned from lead bullets. Rather than getting shot, she believes the animal ingested lead from other animal carcasses or bullet fragments on the ground or in the food the eagle ate.  

The young bird was treated with medication to eliminate her excessive lead levels found in her blood. Harris said it took  several weeks before healing progression was noticed. 

How you can help

Rowena Wildlife Clinic is a non-profit organization. Even with a mostly volunteer staff, the clinic incurs considerable costs each month. There's food, medicine, surgical and diagnostic equipment for the animals, and a constant need for building and cage repairs. Donating to the clinic means you are helping with the care of these animals while supporting the clinic that makes it happen. Donations can be made through their website; RowenaWildlifeClinic.org.

Fox kit who has rehabilitated and been released

Good work, great pay in Sales at Ray Schultens Motors

Join the winning sales team at Ray Schultens Motors. Well trained sales staff who commit to knowing their vehicles and customers are well compensated and enjoy a long list of benefits. Wheels of Hope is just one of the many ways Schutlens gives back to the community.

Ray Schultens Motors is looking for a career-minded self-starter with a desire to succeed in an exciting and successful selling environment.

Are you fun? 
Do you like working with people, working hard, and finding solutions? 

Then this is the job for you. 

Training is top priority at Ray Schultens Motors. So, maybe this is where you get your start in sales and find your stride. No experience necessary, but it’s a plus for those bringing a year or more in demonstrable sales and or customer service. Being bilingual in Spanish and English is also very beneficial in sales.

What’s it pay?

That’s up to you. Compensation is based on commission ranging from $4,500 to more than $10k a month, depending on your ability to commit to customers, find solutions and please clients.

What are the other benefits?

• Bonus programs worth thousands in addition to commissions on vehicle sales

• Matching 401K, Medical, Dental, & Vision

• Life Insurance

• Annual Bonus

• Employee pricing on vehicles

• Employee pricing on parts and service

• Closed Sundays and major holidays

• You work with Fun People

How To Apply
A winning candidate must have insurance, a valid driver’s license and be able to pass a drug screen. 

You can email your resume to Sales Manager Austin Woolsey at woolsey_a@schultensmotors.com 

Please call Austin with questions at 1-888-481-3601

Ray Schultens Motors 
2600 W. Sixth St., The Dalles

Camp's Plumbing grows with eye on service, hard work

By Tom Peterson

Pat and Cyndi Camp of The Dalles understand hard work and service.

It is the thread that runs through their endeavors since starting Camp’s Plumbing in 2005.

Pat and Cyndi Camp of Camp’s Plumbing LLC have assembled a larger crew to provide plumbing services throughout the Gorge. The couple have built the business based on customer service, quick return phone calls and treating others as they would like to be treated.

Both grew up in homes where their parents owned their businesses.

Pat’s father was a contractor, and Cyndi’s dad leased carpet cleaning equipment.

“We’re second generation in the service industry,” Cyndi said.   

So they realize they are only as good as their last job or conversation.

That sense of pride has led them to their success. The company, based in The Dalles and serving the greater Mid-Columbia region, is now in its 15th year and employs five - Brent Cramblett, Levi Phelps, Jamia Long, Kia Long & Jake Buell. Cyndi and Pat take the total to seven.

That’s why you can find them on their phones at 7:30 or 8:30 p.m. calling customers back.

“You have to earn your trust with clients. You can’t make everybody happy in the service world, but it’s something we strive for,” Cyndi said.

There is no answering service with this business. You talk to either Pat or Cyndi when you call Camp’s.

They offer service and repair for any plumbing issue that you have.

Communities they serve include The Dalles, Mosier, Hood River, Odell, Parkdale, Mt. Hood, Cascade Locks, Bonneville, Stevenson, Carson, Underwood, White Salmon, Bingen, Lyle, Goldendale, Rufus, Arlington and Boardman.

The company is licensed and bonded in both Oregon and Washington -  OR # 177235, WA # CAMPSPL938Q9. Learn more by calling (541) 298-2267 or visit their website at https://www.campsplumbing.com/

Pat is from White Salmon and Cyndi moved to Underwood in 1994. They began their plumbing endeavors in Troutdale before making the move back to the Gorge.

Pat started plumbing new construction homes and worked his way into custom builds such as Stave and Stone Winery in Hood River.

“We are now into our second year of full service,” Cyndi said, noting that’s when they began adding employees to meet the demand in the area.  

Employees are abiding by all of the COVID-19 guidelines, using masks, gloves and social distancing. And they are also practicing the golden rule - they treat others as they would like to be treated.

“They are kind and courteous,” Cyndi said. “We have clients call us back and request the same employee because they did such a good job of working with them.”

That recipe of good work and good attitude is propelling the business. 

Camp’s Plumbing LLC’s from left, Jake Buell, Jamia Long, Brent Cramblett, Levi Phelps, Kia Long owner Pat Camp.

“It’s kind of scary getting bigger,” Cyndi said. “But we have good employees and a good system.”

It’s not too much different than when they started - business equals risk.

They started the business five months after they were married with a little pushing from Cyndi’s father. 

“If you don’t try, you don’t know,” Cyndi said.

They are still getting the job done. 

Pat and Cyndi have two daughters, Rylee, 12, and Heather, 10. And the family likes a little entertainment mixed in with the hard work. Pat is the lead singer for the band Suckerpunch. 

Cyndi also does bookkeeping for other businesses and has a sweet little sideline, Cupcakes by Cyndi. She can make them anyway you like - including vegan, keto, nut-free and non-gluten recipes. 

Services offered by Camp’s Plumbing

• Service & Repair

• Backflow testing

• Gas piping

• Water heater install and repair

• Drain cleaning

• Water service and tie in

• Sewer service and tie in

• New construction

• Commercial

• Remodels

• Ejection pump

• Camera for drain, waste, and water lines

TD Grads get boost from Columbia Gorge Toyota

The steady hand of Ruth Pullen brought the letters of Mauricio Carrera to life on the sign.

Emboldened in yellow and crimson with the fierce head of a Riverhawk, it said: “Congratulations! Mauricio Carrera Class of 2020 The Dalles High School”.

And in the lower hand corner? Columbia Gorge Toyota.

Parents, teachers and community leaders came together on Tuesday night at Columbia Gorge Toyota in The Dalles to put their own personal touch on high school graduation slated for Saturday at Sorosis Park.

Using massive Sharpie pens Pullen and eight others clearly wrote the names of every graduating senior on the special signs Columbia Gorge Toyota recently printed.

That’s no small feat. There were more than 190 names to be written. And penmanship counted.

“Ending our senior year and graduating through this rough time is not what anyone expected, so I think it’s great that the community is helping celebrate us seniors,” said TDHS graduating senior Anna Singhurst. “They’re doing the most they can to make everything feel normal, and I can say we are all very blessed for this.” 

The signs will be displayed at graduation to represent each senior as the ceremony will involve social distancing between classmates as well as attendees.

It’s not the usual hubbub of an Amaton Field ceremony, but endeavors such as Columbia Gorge Toyota’s to purchase and create the signs are a testament to the support this class is receiving. 

“I think it’s awesome,” said Venus Allison, mother to Singhurst. “I love how our community comes together.” 

She pointed to the seniors who were lighting up on Columbia Gorge Toyota’s digital sign. She also applauded the banners of each student hanging from light poles in downtown The Dalles. “There are all these little perks to make them feel special,” she said of the cumulative efforts of the community to embrace the graduating class. 

“It started with honoring graduates on our reader board,” said Columbia Gorge Toyota’s Rachel Carter. “And it just grew from there. I was sad they were not having a ceremony where they could stand together, so the signs will be there to represent each student.”

On Monday, June 15, Columbia Gorge Toyota will place every sign along the front of their property at 1900 W. Sixth St. for the entire community to be proud of.

Seniors can check in with the dealership to retrieve their signs and like their Columbia Gorge Facebook page to be entered in a drawing to receive a free car detail, Carter said.

The dealership can also be reached at 541-296-2271.

Teachers, parents and Columbia Gorge Toyota’s Rachel Carter, center in green, came together on Tuesday evening to create signs for TDHS graduating seniors. Columbia Gorge Toyota came bought the signs after it was clear that social distancing guidelines would be needed for classmates as well as attendees at the graduation, slated for Saturday at Sorosis Park. Carter said the signs would represent the students during the delivery of diplomas.

Ruth Pullen uses her best penmanship for TDHS graduating senior Mauricio Carrera. Pullen’s daughter, Sophia, will also be graduating on Saturday. They plan to have a small family gathering after the ceremony.

TDHS senior graduate signs will adorn the front property of Columbia Gorge Toyota, 1900 W. Sixth St., The Dalles, starting on Monday, June 15, a show of pride for the community.