Bargeway Brunching set for Easter Sunday; Gorge Giggin' Guide filled with good eggs — Columbia Community Connection News Mid-Columbia Region

Bargeway Pub & Catering’s Entertainment Weekly

By Jim Drake at gorgeentertainment@gmail.com

Everyone says Easter is Early this Year, but we know the Easter Bunny is bringing on the Entertainment Even Earlier - making for a Bountiful Basket of Music, Arts and Entertainment to keep you busy for weeks on end! Keep reading on - because all the best in Gorge Entertainment is Right Here!

While you’re here, check out Columbia Community Connection’s Local Calendar and daily news coverage.

Want to get your event onboard? Send the details to Entertainment Guru Jim Drake at gorgeentertainment@gmail.com and make it a Great Show! ‘Cause they can’t go if they don’t know.

Bargeway Pub Easter Brunch, 10 a.m. - 2 p.m.

Old Peter Rabbit is putting on his bib for the Bargeway Easter Brunch set for Sunday, March 31, at The Dalles Premier Outdoor Venue. The weatherman is calling for sunny skies and temps in the 60s as Steve, Stacey and the gang fill the Easter baskets with great food and drinks.

Options include Steak and eggs, Banana Foster French Toast, Huevos Rancheros, cocktails, mocktails, and Eggs Benedict three ways - classic, vegan and smoked salmon.

That should get you hopping down the bunny trail.

And in the usual fashion, the celebration always starts early at the Bargeway with a kick-off on Thursday with the following lineup.

Alonzo Garbanzo hits the Bargeway stage on Friday, March 29 at 6:30 p.m

Thursday, March 28 - Tacos and Tequila Thursday with Jeff Minnick, 6: p.m.

Friday, March 29 - Alonzo Garbanzo, 6:30 p.m.

Saturday, March 30 - Rich and Blonde, 6:30 p.m.

Sunday, March 31 - Easter Brunch from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Al Hare plays at 5 p.m.

News You Can Use

‘Doonesbury’ Lampooned Space Program

With all the excitement of astronaut Jeff Williams coming to town last week, it was easy to forget that a long-running comic strip, “Doonesbury,” devoted a few weeks to the U.S. Space Program, namely the Skylab project. But believe me, I didn’t remember either, because that happened back in the early 70s, and I just found a stash of old books the other day. The comic strip, if you don’t know, written from G. B. Trudeau’s Canadian point of view, was so based on world politics and pop culture that newspapers would run the comic on editorial pages. But after reading “comics” that mention “Space Accord,” which really meant astronauts and cosmonauts working together in partnership, I couldn’t help but think it eerily coincided with William’s presentation on March 21. Also of note for March 21: Space-X launched a supply ship to the ISS, which Williams helped build. Cue the Twilight Zone Music!

https://columbiacommunityconnection.com/the-dalles/astronaut-col-jeffery-williams-landing-in-hood-river-march-21

‘Muppet Treasure Island’ is Best ‘Treasure Island?’

I have to admit, when I found out the classic story “Treasure Island,” was going to be the focus of a library read-a-thon, my first question was: Will you have a showing of Muppet Treasure Island to celebrate? Happy to report: Yes. Put March 29 on your schedule. Possibly the Best of all the Muppet Movies (Muppets in Space is up there, though) Muppet Treasure Island still delights, and the absolute funniest moment has to be when Rizzo the Rat sets up a system of selling Cruise Ship Tickets.

Wasn’t I Just Talking About…..

Chess, yes I guess the stars are aligning because if you want to sign up for Chess Classes (the kind of class I desperately need) The Dalles Library is the Place to Be - a weekly series starting April 6 and registration is required.

https://www.wascocountylibrary.com/event/weekly-chess-lessons-learn-expert-5229

Live Music at Trout Lake Hall

Trout Lake Hall in Trout Lake, Washington is bringing live music back to the Historic building’s stage. More information and tickets at: https://www.troutlakehall.com/

Friday, March 29, Vonnie Kyle / Karyn Ann, Alt Americana vocal powerhouses team up for an awesome double bill, $10 Advance // $12 Day Of Show, 6 p.m. Doors / 7p.m. Show, All Ages

Vonnie Kyle is an alternative rock artist based in Portland, OR. She has released five records, the most recent of which was her first full-length album, the 2022 pop-rock LP Imperfect Parts. Her music has been described as “a masterful blend of indie rock and folk-tinged storytelling.” Guitar Girl Magazine has stated that Kyle’s sound “blends alt-pop, alt-rock, and folk-rock with her expressive voice, producing luscious sonic concoctions.” Kyle spent the majority of her music career in Minneapolis before eventually relocating to Portland, where she is currently working on her next record.

Once described as a “combination of Patty Griffin grit and Amy Winehouse grace” by American Songwriter, Portland-based Soul/Americana singer-songwriter Karyn Ann has been charming audiences across the US for nearly a decade. Her powerful vocals and thoughtful songwriting weave together themes of nature and personal experience into a narrative that highlights the many facets of universal human emotions.

Saturday, March 30, Jessica Renee & her all-star band featuring Aarun Carter National Fiddle Champion, $10 Advance // $10 Day Of Show, 6 p.m. Doors / 7p.m. Show, All Ages

Jessica Renee (Countryside Ride, Chicken Shit Gamblers) grew up in southwest Washington where she spent her childhood riding horses, daydreaming and playing in the mud. Her musical career began in her early 20’s when she started playing the upright bass with the honky tonk band Countryside Ride. These formative years playing classic country standards are apparent in her new record, “Someday”, where songs range from the barroom to the bucolic. Also obvious is the influence of folk music which she honed in while writing and recording “Bandida” with Sally Peters in the Rosie’s Ghost band.

Civic Auditorium Spring Vendor Fair Applications Available

The Dalles Civic Auditorium is currently accepting applications for the Spring Market Fair, Saturday, April 20, from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., at The Dalles Civic Auditorium (323 E. Fourth Street). Local vendors and Farmers Market participants are encouraged to apply. Our location gives you access to the crowds of people in town for the Northwest Cherry Festival while giving you a comfortable indoor space to sell your goods.
Applications can be obtained online at www.thedallescivic.com, by emailing tdcivicauditorium@gmail.com, or in person at the Civic Auditorium office, located at 323 East Fourth Street. Questions can be directed to Tiffany Hardin, Event Coordinator at 541-298-8533.

‘The Birds’ at Granada Theater

The Granada Theater in The Dalles presents the classic Alfred Hitchcock movie “The Birds,” Friday and Saturday, March 29-30, doors open at 5:30 p.m. Dinner available. Tickets and more info at: Granadatheatrethedalles.com

Granada Theater Cover Me - a Tribute Series

Granada Theater in The Dalles announces a Huge Lineup of touring cover bands, and we mean HUGE. At least Nine Shows are scheduled: We’re talking all of your favorite Heavy Metal, Classic Rock, Country, or Early Seattle Sound bands - they all are part of the Tribute Series and they’ll be making a stop at The Granada Theater in the coming months, stay tuned!

https://granadatheatrethedalles.com/events-and-buy-tickets/granada-tribute-series-march-may/

Saturday, April 6, Nevermind (Nirvana Tribute), and Fighting Foos (Foo Fighters Tribute)

Nevermind - Nirvana tribute is a Seattle-based band hailing from the SODO district. They strive to reproduce the raw-nerve, punk-influenced grunge ethos that made Nirvana the most compelling live and recorded band of their generation, and man...do they deliver!

Fighting Foos - Foo Fighters tribute is a Portland-based group that plays the music with the energy and aesthetic it deserves. No half measures, only to respect and honor rock & roll’s greatest flag wavers of the modern day.

Tickets available at: https://aftontickets.com/event/buyticket/g3xlllzx60

Clubs meet at TD Library

Bookclubs and more meet at The Dalles Library:

Tuesday, March 26, Sci-Fi Book Club, 5 p.m.

Wednesday, March 27, Treasure Planet Movie Party, 2:30 p.m.

Thursday, March 28, Pirate and His Pet Puppet Show, 2 p.m.

Friday, March 29, Fun Friday with Muppet Treasure Island, 2 p.m.

Saturday, March 30, Make Beach Glass Earrings, 3 p.m.

Easter Egg Hunt at Gorges Beer in Cascade Locks

Come join the fun for a family-friendly Easter Egg Hunt at Gorges Beer in Cascade Locks on Saturday, March 30. Mimosas available for the parents!

10 a.m. - Ages 0-5

10:30 a.m. - Ages 6-10

11 a.m. - Ages 11+

Live Music at Kickstand Coffee

Kickstand Coffee in Hood River brings Live Music Wednesdays and more to the local scene.

Wednesday, March 27, Shane Lebsack, 6-8 p.m.

Wednesday, April 3, Yotes, 6-8 p.m.

Wednesday, April 10, Mary Ryan & Co., 6-8 p.m.

Wednesday, April 17, Andy Schmidt, 6-8 p.m.

Big Britches Acting Class with Sharon Laughlin

Big Britches Productions presents an acting class with Sharon Laughlin starting on Saturday, April 6, continuing April 7, 13 and 14 at The Bingen Theater. Tickets available at: https://www.bigbritches.org/acting-with-sharon-tickets?fbclid=IwAR3r3sYOLU8EkwRBEEK-51MEUFsmZ6XEcvp3BVS8RDshpvQoVSwbhFcKMVQ

About the Event

Sharon Laughlin is a professional actress who has acted on Broadway, Off-Broadway, and many regional theaters, including Portland Center Stage. The Delsarte method of acting, pioneered by François Delsarte in the 19th century, revolutionized theatrical performance by emphasizing the connection between physical expression and emotional authenticity.

Thunder Island Brewing Trivia Night

Thunder Island Brewing in Cascade Locks hosts Trivia Nights with Scott Anderson. “Gather your smartest pals, form a team up to six people, and compete for glory and fantastic prizes. From pop culture to history, we've got questions to challenge every trivia enthusiast. So rally your crew, come early to snag a table, and let's make memories over cold brews and hot competition.”

Thursday, April 11, 6-8 p.m.

Thursday, May 9, 6-8 p.m.

Thursday, June 13, 6-8 p.m.

‘Giants of Jazz’ concert at HRVHS

Join the Columbia Gorge Orchestra Association’s Jazz Collective Big Band for a thrilling concert of music and classic jazz by some of America's best composers and arrangers. Friday, April 19, at 7 p.m. and Sunday, April 21, at 2 p.m., at the Hood River Valley High School Bowe Theatre. Tickets available at: https://app.arts-people.com/index.php?show=195720

Live Music at Everybody’s Brewing

Everybody’s Brewing in White Salmon brings local and regional music to the stage.

Monday, March 25, Ben Larsen, (Singer-songwriter), 6-8 p.m.

Live Music at Zim’s

Zim’s Brau Haus in The Dalles presents live local music.

Tuesday, March 26, Reddy Black Trio, 7-9 p.m.

Friday, March 29, Big River Blues Band, 7-9:30 p.m.

Saturday, March 30, Jager Bumz, 7-9:30 p.m.

Mid-Columbia Community Concert Association Presents

Sail On -The Beach Boys Tribute

at The Dalles Civic Auditorium

Mid-Columbia Community Concert Association is pleased to present Sail On, Wednesday, April 10, at The Dalles Civic Auditorium. Doors open at 6 p.m. with the Civic’s Club 22 providing food and drinks for purchase. The show begins at 7 p.m.
Sail On performs over 80 shows a year and is the most booked Beach Boys Tribute Band in the world! The band plays all of the Beach Boys’ classic hits, plus some treasures from the band’s brilliant extended catalog. The Nashville-based band of five performers brings The Beach Boys concert experience to life.

Sail On will offer The Beach Boys concert experience to The Dalles! You won’t want to miss the familiar music, the beachy energy, and cosmic talent! Come enjoy the night of musical harmonies and California surf culture of the 60’s. Check them out at http://www.sailonsounds.com/.

Tickets to the concert are available at Klindt’s Booksellers, Lines of Designs, online at www.mccca.info, or at the door.

The Dalles Eagles Swap Meet

The Dalles Eagles/Elks and Mid Columbia Car Club presents a Swap Meet on Saturday, April 27, 8 a.m. - 3 p.m. The event will feature food, music, raffle prizes and a beer garden. For vendor stall information call 541-993-3146.

‘Funny Five’ Comedy show at Bingen Theater

The Bingen Theater presents the Funny Five Comedy show on Thursday, March 28, Doors at 7 p.m., Show at 7:30 p.m.

Tickets available at:

https://www.eventbrite.com/e/dd-comedy-and-big-britches-production-present-film-the-funny-five-tickets-800585551937?aff=ebdssbdestsearch

About the event

The Bingen Theater always has a great audience for Comedy Nights, which is why the theater is a perfect venue for comedians to get professional tapes of their sets. Be part of the audience when Five of Portland's funniest comedians film their standup comedy sets at the Bingen Theater.

Performers include:

IMANI DENAE--Geniuses of Comedy 2023 and House of Hyjinx Comedy Competition 2021

BRENT LOWREY --Winner of the Seattle International Comedy Competition 2024

MANDY SIMONSON--Residencies at East Austin's & NYC’s Broadway Comedy Clubs

DIANNA POTTER-- Portland Mercury's Undisputable Geniuses of Comedy 2024

ADAM PASI--Portland's Funniest Person 2019

‘Illuminated Cello’ at Bingen Theater

“Illuminated Cello,” featuring cellist Chrissy Lancaster and audio-visual artist John Hardham is at The Bingen Theater for one night only: Friday, March 29, at 7:30 p.m. Tickets available at:

https://www.bigbritches.org/cello-tickets

About the event

Illuminated Cello is a unique audio-visual live performance that features internationally renowned musician Chrissy Lancaster and the Lightwave Lightshow by John Hardham. “Illuminated Cello,” a Winter Light Festival, is an “amazing display of sound and light.” Proceeds from this event will help support the Performing Arts Initiative in 2024.

Chrissy Lancaster is an electro-acoustic cellist and composer. He has composed over 50 full-length works for concert, dance, theater and film. While his formal training has been in the classical genre, his raw personal approach to music combines pop music, technology and innovation. Chrissy takes the nuances of the entire instrument, twisting the wooden cello body into drum sounds and isolating the quiet tones of the strings into complex emotions. As he plays, Chrissy uses sampling devices and layers the sound of his own cello, playing and altering as he riffs spontaneously, all while playing with a custom pink bow.

John Hardham is a long-time videographer and lightshow artist whose roots in the art form date back to the late 1960's and tours with bands like the Jefferson Airplane, Quicksilver Messenger Service and the Grateful Dead. His work with the “Heavy Water Lightshow” in planetariums across North America and Europe during the 1970's and early 1980's is legendary..

In 2020, shut in and frustrated by the pandemic, John felt a strong need to return to his roots as a light artist. After a number of live shows at the Bingen Theatre performing with the rock group Funkship Columbia, John saw Chrissy Lancaster perform as part of a CGOA performance in The Dalles. “I was blown away by Chrissy's improvisational style and radical sounds.”

The chemistry between these two artists is just now starting to bloom! A special guest video appearance by contemporary dancer Nika Kermani of NK Studios is integrated into the visual performance.

Team Trivia Night at The Ruins

The Ruins in Hood River announces a new Team Trivia night and the next session is on Wednesday, March 13, at 6:30 p.m. Teams up to six people can play and solo players are encouraged to attend and join up. Hosted by Julie Hatfield, Team Trivia Night will feature high quality audio and video projection systems. There will be cash prizes for the best teams, and prizes for the worst answer. $5 cover charge.

Upcoming Team Trivia Night sessions:

March 27

April 10

April 17

Gorge Speakeasy at Ruins

Gorge Speakeasy is The Premier Storytelling Event in the Gorge. An evening of storytelling returns to The Ruins in Hood River.

Join Gorge Speakeasy for an evening of storytelling in Hood River that strengthens the community! Community members take the stage to share stories centered around a theme of the month. You can sign up to share a story, or just sit back and listen. Admission is by donation of any size; we donate proceeds to a local nonprofit each month to keep our community strong through the joy of sharing stories. With suggested themes ranging from “Adventure” to “Taboo,” anonymous mini-stories submitted by the audience, and local wine and cider flowing all night, this event is a can’t-miss, and every month is different! Learn more, sign up for email updates or volunteer to share a story at: itsangiemarie.com/gorgespeakeasy

Gorge Speakeasy Events

Wednesday, April 3

Wednesday, May 1

Tony Furtado Trio at The Ruins

The Tony Furtado Trio, featuring Luke Price & Simon Chrisman is at The Ruins in Hood River on Thursday, March 28, 6 p.m.

Tickets available at: https://www.tickettomato.com/event/8474

About the band

Tony Furtado is an evocative and soulful singer, a wide-ranging songwriter and a virtuoso multi-instrumentalist adept on banjo, cello-banjo, slide guitar and baritone ukulele who mixes and matches sounds and styles with the ﬂair of a master chef (he’s also an accomplished sculptor, but that’s another story). Tony Furtado took up the banjo at age 12, inspired by the Beverly Hillbillies television show and a sixth-grade music report. He ﬁrst attracted national attention in 1987, when he won the National Bluegrass Banjo Championship in Winﬁeld, Kansas.

Beginning with “Swamped” in 1990, he recorded six critically acclaimed albums, collaborating with such master musicians as Alison Krauss, Jerry Douglas, Tim O’Brien, Stuart Duncan, Kelly Joe Phelps and Mike Marshall. During this period, Tony also performed and recorded with the band SugarBeat and the Rounder Banjo Extravaganza with Tony Trischka and Tom Adams.

Tony has performed throughout the world at top venues and appeared at such prestigious music festivals as the Telluride Bluegrass Festival, High Sierra Music Festival, Jazz Aspen, Kerrville Folk Festival, Strawberry Music Festival, Winnipeg Folk Festival, Sisters Folk Festival, San Jose Jazz Festival and countless others.

Live Music at Double Mountain

Double Mountain Brewery in Hood River brings local and regional music to the stage.

Wednesdays, Humpday Trivia with Whikki, sign-up 5:30 p.m.

Friday, March 29, Chris Riedl Trio, 7:30 p.m.

Angel Ocasio Comedy Hour at HR Libraries

Prepare for a laughter-filled experience at the library over spring break with Angel Ocasio on Wednesday, March 27, at a Hood River Library location near you. Ocasio’s kids of all-ages show is “bilingual, high-energy, and VERY funny one-man variety show that combines physical comedy, jokes, juggling, object balancing, comedy magic, and impromptu comedy situations.”

Catch him at:

Cascade Locks 12-1 p.m.,

Parkdale 3-4 p.m.

Hood River 5:30-6:30 p.m.

Live music at Working Hands

Working Hands Fermentation in Hood River presents live music, trivia nights and more.

Sundays, Open Mic, 6 p.m.

Thursdays, Team Trivia, 6:30 p.m.

Friday, March 29, Megan Alder, 7:30 p.m.

Saturday, March 30, Angelic Noise, 7:30 p.m.

Live Music at The Pines

The Pines Tasting Room in Hood River hosts live music featuring local and regional musicians.

Thursday, March 28, Chic Preston & Dave Captein, 4 p.m.

Friday, March 29, Chasing Ebenezer, 6 p.m.

Rose Szapszewicz Monotypes at The Dalles Art Center

Artist Rose Szapszewicz exhibits work at The Dalles Art Center in March 2024. “The beauty of the Columbia River Gorge was like a siren for Rose Szapszewicz. Under its influence, her work, be it monotypes or sketches of nature, is best be described as energy caught on paper. The images of the landscape she lives in are absorbed into her being and expressed in the work.”

About The Event

These one-of-a-kind monotypes are created with large rollers moving over paint applied to a metal plate. Rose works spontaneously, adding elements from nature to the process like flora, or water and from chemistry such as alcohol that create special effects in each print. The plate is run through a press several times until she is satisfied with the result. The nature of the surprise thrills her as she sees the colors and textures emerge on their own.

Hood River Reads ‘Beloved Beasts’

The Hood River County Library announces the Hood River Reads 2024 selection: “Beloved Beasts: Fighting for Life in an Age of Extinction,” by author and White Salmon resident Michelle Nijhuis. The Kickoff and Book Distribution is Saturday, March 2, at Hood River, Parkdale and Cascade Locks locations. “Beloved Beasts” has won awards from the Sierra Club, Chicago Tribune, Smithsonian Magazine and Booklist.

Hood River Reads Schedule 2024

Saturday, March 2, Kickoff and Book Distribution

Saturday, March 9, Wildlife Photography with Linda Steider, 2 p.m.

Wednesday, March 13, “American Buffalo” lecture with Michelle Nijhuis and Ken Burns’ documentary clips, 6 p.m.

Saturday, March 16, “All Gorge Creatures Great and Small,” 2-4 p.m.

Wednesday, April 10, HR Library Book Club discusses Beloved Beasts, 12:30 p.m.

Saturday, April 6, Where the Wild Things Are Field Trip, 10 a.m. - 2 p.m.

Saturday, April 13, Writing Workshop with Michelle Nijhuis, 10 a.m. - noon

Saturday, April 13, Making Animal Masks with Lacey Spray, 1-4 p.m.

Sunday, April 14, Finale Presentation by Michelle Nijhuis, 2 p.m.

About the Book

“In the late nineteenth century, humans came to a devastating realization: their rapidly industrializing and globalizing societies were driving scores of animal species to extinction. “Beloved Beasts: Fighting for Life in an Age of Extinction” tells the story of the movement to protect and conserve forms of life from early battles to save charismatic species such as the American Bison and Bald Eagle to today’s global effort to defend life on a larger scale.

HR Elks Gatsby Gala & Casino Night

Hood River Elks Lodge Members and Guests are invited to the Gatsby themed celebration and Casino Royale on Saturday, March 30, doors open 5 p.m. Come in your best Gatsby era speakeasy finery!

Tickets available at: tinyurl.com/yt9y553y

Button Bridge Comedy Jamboree April 18-20

Hood River is hosting the Button Bridge Comedy Jamboree at multiple venues April 18-20. The Button Bridge Comedy Jamboree will feature stand up comedians Brent Lowrey, Jon Bennett, Sam Tallent, Monica Nevi and Zak Toscani, as well as a story-telling event. The Button Bridge Comedy Jamboree is a 501c-3 nonprofit, and all proceeds generated will go toward scholarships for graduating high school students in the area.

Tickets available at:

https://www.eventbrite.com/o/60447288693...

Live Music at Underground Music Station

The Underground Music Station in Hood River is bringing local and regional acts to the stage.

Friday, March 29, Bisti with NO2F (No One To Follow) and Exchange, 7 p.m., Free show - All Ages Event

Saturday, April 6, Bad Romance Spring Dance with Funky Cranium & The Groove Cabin, 8 p.m., 21+, $10 ADV // $12 DOOR

Tickets: undergroundmusicstation.simpletix.com

Hard-Pressed Cider Fest returns April 27

The ninth annual Hood River Hard-Pressed Cider Fest returns on Saturday, April 27 - this year the signature cider event is being held at the Port of Hood River Event Site. The festival features the best in local ciders, music, art and more. And the festival is going Green with an option to bring your own cider mug!

For more information or to purchase tickets to the Hood River Hard-Pressed Cider Fest, visit https://www.hoodriverciderfest.com/.

About the Festival

The ninth annual Hood River Cider Fest returns April 27.

As spring unfolds in the Hood River Valley, the blossoming fruit orchards herald the return of the celebrated Hood River Hard-Pressed Cider Fest. Now in its ninth year, this beloved annual event invites seasoned and novice cider enthusiasts to come together and sample ciders from Columbia River Gorge and Pacific Northwest hard cider makers. With more than thirty participating cideries and over sixty ciders on tap, this family-friendly event is a quintessential celebration of spring in Hood River.

In 2023, Cider Fest shifted venues to the Port of Hood River Event Site, an idyllic waterfront location offering unparalleled views of the Columbia River and panoramic vistas of the Columbia River Gorge. This year, the event expands its footprint even further, providing beachfront access to the Columbia River and the option for attendees to bring their own glass, contributing to an immersive and sustainable Hood River experience.

"In an effort to reduce waste, the Hood River Cider Fest event no longer requires a commemorative glass for participation in the cider tasting," said event director Lee Perry with TrueWest Presents. "Commemorative glasses are available for pre-order purchase, and plastic cups for those who do not wish to purchase one, but we encourage attendees to contribute to reducing the event’s carbon footprint by bringing their own jars, mugs, or steins—all are allowed."

Beyond cider sampling, the day-long event boasts artisan food, art vendors, music, and a designated children’s play area. Various ticket options are available, including a $10 entry-only ticket or a Tasting Package ticket, which includes entry and 12 tasting tokens for $30 if purchased in advance. Attendees under the age of 21 receive free admission to the event. The festival’s expanded footprint provides free parking and ample room to roam.

"Cider Fest provides everyone the opportunity to explore and uncover new favorite ciders and cideries in an atmosphere filled with fun, festivity, and abundance," said Katie Kadlub, CEO of Visit Hood River. "It’s also the ideal excuse for a weekend getaway and to immerse yourself in the beauty of spring in the Hood River Valley, see the fruit orchards as they burst into bloom when the entire valley hums with the excitement of the season."

Jazz by the Fireplace at Hood River Hotel

The Hood River Hotel presents Jazz by the Fireplace with local musicians every Saturday, from 7:30-10 p.m. Enjoy music and dancing in the lobby!

Reverie Road at St. Peter’s Landmark

Four-piece all-star Celtic folk band Reverie Road plays the historic St. Peter’s Landmark Church in The Dalles on Friday, April 5, at 7 p.m. All Ages Show. Tickets available at:

https://www.tickettomato.com/event/8503/landmark-concerts-presents-reverie-road?fbclid=IwAR3un0ZlI5uDKSy-vzrdVct_L3MWMz4mWEsBdYU6w6quG189nD7AtgZ3IVc

About the Band

“Reverie Road is a fresh, eclectic celtic combination, featuring fiddler Winifred Horan and accordionist John Williams (founding Solas members) alongside former Gaelic Storm fiddler Katie Grennan and Jazz and Raga pianist Utsav Lal (Young Steinway Artist).

This powerful combination is made up of four of today's leading traditional and virtuosic folk artists who have captured the hearts of international audiences from studios to stages over the last three decades.

Firmly grounded in their collective Irish roots, Reverie Road embraces humor with musical insight and natural abilities. Original textural adventures weave the roots of Irish musical traditions with new departures and curated gems including distilled airs, continental waltzes, and upbeat reels and jigs.

The band chemistry of two accomplished classically-trained fiddlers who share a common history as award winning Irish dancers along with two instrumentalists who have sought to redefine traditional accompaniment and rhythm sections amount to a compelling concert experience that will lift audiences' hearts and have them on their feet.”

Cover Me - a Tribute Series

Granada Theater in The Dalles announces a Huge Lineup of touring cover bands, and we mean HUGE. At least Nine Shows are scheduled: We’re talking all of your favorite Heavy Metal, Classic Rock, Country, or Early Seattle Sound bands - they all are part of the Tribute Series and they’ll be making a stop at The Granada Theater in the coming months, stay tuned!

https://granadatheatrethedalles.com/events-and-buy-tickets/granada-tribute-series-march-may/

And what about Afroman hitting TD like a blunt on Aug. 3? - He’ll be at the Granada. Is it because he got high? $65 bucks cash money. Tickets on sale now.

Advance tickets on sale for R.A.P. Ferreira at Ruins

The Ruins in Hood River presents R.A.P. Ferreira with Psalm One and DJ Mexi on Saturday, April 6, at 7:30 p.m. Indoor show.

Tickets available at:

www.tickettomato.com/event/8475

About the show

R.A.P. Ferreira (fka milo) (aka scallops hotel) is an mc, producer and theorist working in the Black arts tradition commonly categorized as rap. Having founded the label ruby yacht in 2015 and since releasing all of his music through this channel, Ferreira has earned a sizable following within independent hip hop by rigorous, constant touring and an elevated, explorational style of performance. He is known for an uncompromised, utopic flow that speaks directly to the root of the listener.

By 2018, the young artist galvanized his presence in the American rap scene with the opening of Soulfolks Records & Tapes in Biddeford, Maine (now located in Nashville). He currently makes his home in Nashville, Tennessee where he continues to helm the Ruby Yacht while studying to become a blues guitar legend and a farmer.

Cristalle Bowen, (aka Psalm One), has been consistently recognized as one of independent hip hop’s most forward thinkers. A prolific recording, touring and mentoring artist, Psalm has been featured in publications from Forbes to Rolling Stone.

Since 2006 she has commanded festival and venue stages all over the United States and Europe, sharing bills with everyone from Tyler, the Creator to Gucci Mane to Wu-Tang Clan.

More than an entertainer, Psalm is a scholar, teacher and is very active in her community, serving as treasurer on the board of a disaster relief organization. Psalm has been an exciting artist to watch for more than a decade — a champion for women and lgbtqai+ artists.

Her debut memoir, HER WORD IS BOND: NAVIGATING HIP HOP AND RELATIONSHIPS IN A CULTURE OF MISOGYNY (published in June 2022 by Haymarket Books) is a “unique and honest” rollercoaster of a read, straight from the hip of a woman who blazed a few trails of her own as an independent hip hop artist.

Open Mic Night at The Pines

The Pines Tasting Room in Hood River announces a new Open Mic Night starting on Monday, Feb. 19, from 5-7 p.m. The stage will feature a House Band with Bill, Lisa, and Malcolm. “Grab your guitar and head down to the Tasting Room to jam with your musician friends.”

Make plans for Feb. 19, March 4, March 18, and April 1.

Foosball Tourney Thunder Island

Thunder Island Brewing in Cascade Locks presents a Foosball Tourney on the first and third Wednesday of the month, 6-9 p.m. February through May. Come show off your skills and join in on the foosball fun in the River Room.

March 6, March 20, April 3

April 17, May 1, May 15

Hood River Library Book Club

Join the Hood River Library Book Club on the second Wednesday of the month at 12:30 p.m. in the Hood River Library Meeting Room. Discussion groups are held monthly throughout, and all are welcome to attend. Books are chosen month-to-month. Meetings are hybrid, so folks are welcome both in-person and online. https://hoodriverlibrary.org/book-club/

2024 Meetings/Selections

1-10 Lessons in Chemistry (Bonnie Garmus)

2-14 The Lemon Tree: An Arab, A Jew, and the Heart of the Middle East (Sandy Tolman)

3-13 Horse (Geraldine Brooks)

4-10 Hood River Reads Selection

5-8 The House in the Cerulean Sea (T.J. Klune)

6-12 A Wolf Called Romeo (Nick Jans)

7-10 Onlookers: Stories (Ann Beattie)

8-14 Killers of the Flower Moon: The Osage Murders and the Birth of the FBI (David Grann)

9-11 The Personal Librarian (Marie Benedict/Victoria Christopher Murray)

10-9 Facing the Mountain (Daniel James Brown)

11-13 Maame (Jessica Brooks)

12-11 The Best Strangers in the World (Ari Shapiro)

Cascade Locks Monthly Book Club

The Cascade Locks Book Club meets every fourth Thursday of the month at the Cascade Locks Library from 5:15-7 p.m. It will be patron lead and free for all to join.

301 Gallery announces 2024 Art Show Schedule

301 Gallery in Hood River announces its 2024 art show schedule with Gorge artists and other special events. The gallery is open every day 11 a.m. - 5 p.m.

301 Gallery Art Show Schedule 2024

March: Art Quilts

Line Dance at Mid Columbia Senior Center

Mid Columbia Senior Center March update

Tuesdays in March at MCSC

Tai-Chi - 1 p.m. in the basement

Painting for Joy - 2 p.m., in the basement

Line Dance class - 3 p.m. in the dining room

‘Art History’ classes at Mid Columbia Senior Center

The Mid Columbia Senior Center in The Dalles presents “A Little History of Art,” an art class with artist Kerry Cobb. Classes begin Tuesday, Jan. 9, at 10 a.m. in the Deschutes Room and continue Tuesdays Feb. 13, Mar. 12, April 9, May 14, June 11, and July 9. To register, please call the center or sign up at the front desk. This class is based on the Charlotte Mullins book “A Little History of Art” and is available to purchase online or at local booksellers. You do not need to read the book to attend and enjoy the class.

Dionne Warwick in concert April 13

Boeing and The Hood River County Education Foundation present: Dionne Warwick on Saturday, April 13, in a fundraising concert at the Hood River Middle School. All ages show. Tickets on sale Jan. 5 at:

https://www.tickettomato.com/event/8389/boeing-and-hrcef-present-mdash-dionne-warwick-main-floor

About the artist

While Dionne was performing background with the Drifters’ in 1962, Warwick’s voice and star presence were noticed by the song’s composer, Burt Bacharach. Dionne was signed to Bacharach’s and David’s production company, which in turn was signed to Scepter Records. In November of 1962, Scepter Records released her first solo single, “Don’t Make Me Over.” It reached #21 on the top 40. Warrick’s name was misspelled on the label, and then she started using her new spelling, “Warwick”, both professionally and personally. Her next hit single was “Anyone Who Had a Heart, followed by “Walk on By” in 1964 that solidified her career.

Warwick weathered the British Invasion better than most American artists with hits of “Walk on By,” and “Do You Know the Way to San Jose.” Warwick was named the bestselling female vocalist in 1964. In 1965, she recorded “Thunderball” which became the theme song for the James Bond film Thunderball.

Dionne is one of the Kennedy Center Honorees in 2023 recognizing her decades of contributions to music and humanity. Dionne has won six Grammy Awards and been nominated a total of fifteen times. She has been inducted into the Grammy Hall of Fame and has been honored with the Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award, Songwriters Hall of Fame, Living Legend Award, just to name a few. She is one of the top five most recorded female artists of all time. She is also the aunt of legendary singer Whitney Houston.

Writing Group meets at HR Library

The Hood River Writing Group meets every Wednesday at 3 pm at the Hood River Library. It’s creative writing together - join with fellow writers to work on your craft through prompts and share the results. Facilitated by Patty Kaplan.

Live Music at Route 30