Bargeway's bringing the beat and fresh air; Bat Boy & Gigs run amok gorge-wide — Columbia Community Connection News Mid-Columbia Region

Bargeway Pub & Catering’s Entertainment Weekly

By Jim Drake at gorgeentertainment@gmail.com

Blossoms are in the Air, and that means Spring is in Full Swing! The Gorge has Endless Amounts of Music, Festivals, Art, Books and more, so Get Some Gigs on the Calendar and Get Out There! All the best in Music, Arts and 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

The Dalles Premier Outdoor Venue keeps it rolling this week with another great lineup of music, food and fun.

Al Hare plays the Bargeway tonight, April 11. Ad some Tacos and Tequila and feliz.

Al Hare takes the stage tonight, Thursday, April 11, for Tequila & Taco Thursday to play some classics as the tequila flows and tables fill with tacos. Choose from tacos or burritos with a choice of chorizo, tequila lime, shrimp Birria, or pork. House margaritas are $8 and tequila shots $5. That’s a real beauty, a Mexican Cutie.

Music This Week:

Thursday, April 11 - Al Hare, 6:30 p.m., Tacos and Tequila

Friday, April 12 - Dave Tallman, 6:30 p.m.

Saturday, April 13 - Jeff Minnick, 6:30 p.m.

Sunday, April 14 - Dave Tallman, 5 p.m.

And don’t forget to mark your calendars for the Bargeway Bash. The Pub is coming up on its 5th anniversary, and it is going to be a three-day music fest featuring two stages 20 bands and enough suds to sink a submarine. Mark your calendars for the kick-off on May 17.

In the meantime, enjoy another great week of food and entertainment with the following lineup at The Dalles Premier Outdoor Venue.

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, April 12, Elisabeth Ames & the Countrypolitans, Honky Tonk Dance evening, 6 p.m. Doors / 7 p.m. Show, All Ages

Defying standard categorization, Elisabeth Ames & the Countrypolitans consistently demonstrate their easy command of a variety of American music styles: Country, rock and pop. Tight songwriting, addictive melodies and unconventional arrangements are the hallmarks of Elisabeth’s sound. Themes of love, loss and rebirth tell the story.

Saturday, April 13, Jenny Don't & the Spurs / Western Edition, High energy country from Portland, $15 Advance // $18 Day Of Show, 6 p.m. Doors / 7 p.m. Show, All Ages

Since their inception in 2012, the Spurs have kept a relentless schedule of recording, playing locally, and touring. After nearly 500 live appearances in almost a dozen countries, and with a slew of albums and singles to their name, Jenny Don’t and The Spurs are just getting warmed up.

Sunday, April 14, Song Share hosted by Kyle Glenn, A gathering of songwriters to share works in progress, Free event, 1-3 p.m., All Ages

Songwriters of all skill levels are invited for a casual gathering to share a song or two they would like feedback on from the group. Bring your instrument of choice, there will also be a guitar to borrow. Bonus points if you bring copies of your lyrics for folks to read! Kyle will facilitate the sharing and feedback flow to provide a supportive environment.

Columbia Gorge Wine Festival

The Columbia Gorge Wine Festival is coming up Saturday, May 4, at the Hood River Fairgrounds. Discover unique flavors from 16 of the area's most well-regarded wine makers. This all-ages event (under 21 enter free) will also feature food, artists and entertainment. Overnight RV parking available. Proceeds benefit the Hood River County Education Foundation's mission of supporting the students and teachers in our area.

Tickets and more information at: https://hrcef.org/wine-fest/

Bat Boy: The Musical at Columbia Center for the Arts

Columbia Gorge Orchestra Association’s Stages presents “Bat Boy: The Musical,” scheduled for eight performances in May at the Columbia Center for the Arts in Hood River.

Performances:

Friday, May 3, 7:30 p.m.

Saturday, May 4, 7:30 p.m.

Sunday, May 5, 2 p.m.

Friday, May 10, 7:30 p.m.

Saturday, May 11, 7:30 p.m.

Sunday, May 12, 2:00 p.m.

Friday, May 17, 7:30 p.m.

Saturday, May 18, 7:30 p.m.

Tickets available at: https://app.arts-people.com/index.php?show=224430

Content Warning: This performance contains some violence and references to sexual assault. Rated PG-13

About the event

While many musicals are known for having memorable songs, there’s more to a musical than catchy tunes. Stories, for instance. Most of the great musicals have plots and characters that are as engaging as the music and lyrics. The plots come from many sources, including movies, novels, biographies and plays. In the case of Bat Boy: The Musical, the story is ripped from the headlines of a supermarket tabloid. CGOA Stages’ latest production opens May 3rd at the Columbia Center for the Arts and, in the words of director Ashly Will, it’s both “ridiculous and touching.”

Bat Boy: The Musical is based on a Weekly World News story from 1992 about a half-boy, half-bat found living in a cave. Many people will remember the eye-catching tabloid image of the wide-eyed, sharp-fanged creature. The musical, premiered in 1997, expanded and invented the story of the bat boy, who learns to speak and wants to be accepted by mainstream society. In other words, the story goes from being a tabloid-selling headline to a narrative with many themes, including hypocrisy, acceptance, forgiveness, racism, revenge and scapegoating.

If that sounds way too heavy for a simple rock musical with a ridiculous premise, audiences should be rest assured that the messages are tucked safely away inside infectious pop music, traditional Broadway-style tunes, comedy and at least as much laughter as the occasional tear. Like the tabloid headline that inspired it, Bat Boy: The Musical embraces the weird, whacky and colorfully exaggerated characters and situations.

CGOA Stages’ production of Bat Boy: The Musical is the latest show in a long-running series of musicals that has included Pirates of Penzance, Spamalot, The Last Five Years, Fun Home, Mamma Mia, Chicago, West Side Story, Rent and Little Shop of Horrors. The show is directed by veteran actor and director Ashly Will, who recently directed The Rocky Horror Show for Big Britches at the Bingen Theatre. The cast is made up of familiar local actors and quite a few new faces joining Stages for the first time.

Bat Boy: The Musical is being staged at the Columbia Center for the Arts, whose theatre has long been the home for outstanding musicals and other performing arts events. Bat Boy: The Musical is the first CGOA Stages production at CCA, and is the result of an exciting new partnership. Speaking of partnerships, the musical is being funded in part by season sponsor Columbia Gorge Toyota and Honda, as well as hundreds of CGOA members, donors and sponsors.

Kalos at The Ruins

The Ruins in Hood River presents Irish band Kalos on Sunday, April 21, 6 p.m. Indoor show, advance tickets available at:

https://www.tickettomato.com/event/8561/

About the band

Ryan McKasson, Eric McDonald and Jeremiah McLane are masters of tradition who purposefully explore the dark corners floating on its edges. Their individual artistry is enhanced when together. In short, the sum creates a greater whole. The result is an alluring complexity, full of spontaneous musicality. Pulling from parallel strands of influence, they set the standard for traditional repertoire with an underlying drive and pulse charged with rhythmic electricity, culminating in a swirling level of intensity. An air of mystery and adventure pervades a sound compelling enough to transcend boundaries and appeal to music lovers of all stripes.

‘Crow Talk’ launch party at Ruins

The Ruins in Hood River hosts a book release party for Eileen Garvin’s “Crow Talk,” on Tuesday, April 30, from 6-9 p.m. Indoor venue, free admission.

About the event

Come join the fun for a night of celebration at The Ruins for the book launch of “Crow Talk,” a new novel from national bestselling author Eileen Garvin (The Music of Bees). Garvin will be in conversation with Michelle Nijhuis, author of “Beloved Beasts,” the Hood River County Reads selection for 2024. Columbia Gorge Crepes will be on hand and the Red Robe Revival band will open with a set of live music.

‘Bagdad’ at Granada Theater

The Granada Theater in The Dalles presents the 1949 classic movie “Bagdad,” Friday April 12, doors open at 5:30 p.m, 6 p.m. show. Dinner available. Tickets and more info at: Granadatheatrethedalles.com

Family Day at Columbia Center for the Arts

Arts in Education of the Gorge & Columbia Center for the Arts present CREATING TOGETHER: FAMILY DAY on Saturday, April 13, 10 a.m. - 6:30 p.m. at the Columbia Center for the Arts in Hood River. This all-day, free, all-ages event promises a Spring Time Wonderland of family-friendly performers and activities made possible by support from The Roundhouse Foundation, Oregon Community Foundation, and Pacific Power Foundation.

About the event

IN THE GALLERY

10 a.m. - 4 p.m. | Spring Time Wonderland

Come create an enormous cardboard wonderland celebrating all the brilliance of Spring with the guidance of AEIG teaching artists. Stay for 6 minutes or 6 hours to help bring the cardboard world to life!

In the Columbia Center for the Arts Theatre, we'll have a full day of family programming including music by Mo Phillips, storytelling by Jefferson Greene, and an improv comedy set by Kickstand Comedy.

IN THE THEATRE

10:30 - 11:30 a.m. | Fun Time Maker Mo Phillips

Mo Phillips is a teaching artist and a fun time maker in Portland, Oregon. He writes and records songs, makes odd ball videos, produces choose-your-own-adventure musicals, all in Mo-Fi. Mo-Fi is a way of making art centered on joy and exploration, primarily of inexpensive apps that do silly stuff.

3-4 p.m. | Storyteller Jefferson Greene

Jefferson Greene (Warm Springs) is a traditional artist and advocate for the Warm Springs native language. Greene began learning Warm Springs traditions as a child from his grandmother, Sasawaipum, who taught him to sing, dance, and tell traditional stories.

5 - 6:30 p.m. | Kickstand Comedy Improv Theater (Ages 13+)

Curated live comedy with a focus on quality, community, and unique voices.

Kickstand Comedy is a nonprofit theater that strives to provide programming and educational outreach that helps people laugh, connect, and create together. Kickstand Comedy Website

‘Battle of the Bugs’ Sense of Place lecture April 17

Mt. Adams Institute returns with a new Sense of Place lecture by Entomologist Maggie Freeman that explores how insects impact the Gorge with “Battle of the Bugs,” Wednesday, April 17, 7 p.m. at the Columbia Center for the Arts in Hood River. Expect to learn about Cherry-x Disease, marmorated stink bugs and how the Samurai Wasp is being used to “stem the tide of future spotted wing drosophila populations.” Local 4-H Bug Club members will be on-hand in the lobby before the show to share their insect collections.

Tickets at: https://givebutter.com/9O0XwC

Oregon Ballet Theatre: OBT2 Tour

Experience a selection of iconic ballet pieces from OBT's second company on Saturday, April 20, 2 p.m. and 7 p.m., at the Columbia Center for the Arts in Hood River. Tickets available at:

https://www.columbiaarts.org/event-details/oregon-ballet-theatre-obt2-spring-tour-2024-04-20-14-00-1

About the event

The dynamic and vibrant young dancers of OBT2 share their artistry, ability, professionalism, and innovation of Oregon Ballet Theatre with the statewide audience, serving as a cultural ambassador for the performing arts from the state of Oregon. OBT2 has performed in a wide variety of performing arts centers, college campuses, and outdoor festivals. This year’s tour features work by Ben Stevenson, Shannon Alvis, and Dominic Walsh.

Thunder Island Community Night

Thunder Island Brewing in Cascade Locks hosts Community Night with the Columbia Gorge Pride Alliance on Wednesday, April 17, from 5-9 p.m. Proceeds from beverages benefit local non-profit agencies.

‘Wild About Nature,’ on display at White Salmon Library

Pastel artist Randye Jensen’s work is on display at the White Salmon Library gallery through the month of April, celebrating the 11th annual “Wild About Nature” exhibit.

Live Music at Working Hands

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

Saturday, April 13, Andrew Haun, 7:30-9 p.m.

Sunday, April 14, Open Mic, 6:30 p.m.

Friday, April 19, Axel Eff, 7:30-9 p.m.

Saturday, April 20, The Rezurectors, 7:30-9 p.m.

Sunday, April 21, Open Mic, 6:30 p.m.

Friday, April 26, Hwy 14, 7:30-9 p.m.

Saturday, April 27, Jesse Miles & The Wanderers, 7:30-9 p.m.

Sunday, April 28, Open Mic, 6:30 p.m.

Saturday, May 4, A Town Called Home, 7:30-9 p.m.

Live Music at Solera Brewery

Solera Brewery in Parkdale brings local and regional music to the stage.

Friday, April 12, Blue Jay Blue, 6 p.m. “A West Seattle based songwriter mixing rock and death folk with traditional flavors. A genuinely unique music experience.”

Live Music at Phelps Creek Vineyard

Phelps Creek Vineyard in Hood River presents live music in the tasting room with local and regional bands.

Thursday, April 11, All Jazz Considered, 5-7 p.m.

Thursday, April 18, All Jazz Considered, 5-7 p.m.

Sunday, April 21, Lesley & Rebecca, 4-6 p.m.

Thursday, April 25, All Jazz Considered, 5-7 p.m.

Feast of Words at Hood River County Library

Save the Date: The Hood River County Library Foundation’s 11th annual Feast of Words is happening on Saturday, May 4, 5:30-8 p.m.

Feast of Words supports the Library Foundation and the event brings an evening of fun, local food, wine, beer, a live auction and a chance for a Golden Ticket raffle to get your pick of the live auction items. Live music from Pavement Ends. Tickets and donation options available at:

https://event.auctria.com/f5ac3c36-9bdc-46a0-b3f1-42c9835e956d/

Voci presents ‘Shared Humanity’

The Voci Community Choir presents a “moving, exciting and varied program of choral music celebrating the common elements of the human experience.” The concert is Friday, April 26, at 7 p.m. and Sunday, April 28, at 2 p.m. at Hood River Valley Christian Church.

Cherry Festival Comedy Night at Civic Auditorium

D&D Comedy presents Cherry Festival Comedy Night featuring Carmen Lagala at The Dalles Civic Auditorium on Friday, April 19, at 7:30 p.m.

Carmen Lagala is a New York City based stand-up comedian who made her network television debut in 2018 on The Late Show with Stephen Colbert.

Originally from Vermont, Carmen endears audiences with her small-town charm, delivering jokes that are smart, dark, dirty and playful. Carmen was featured in the 2018 New York Comedy Festival for stand-up, sketch, a roast, and her own show “Puppets Present” which was a Time Out New York pick for “Best Shows to See”. She’s performed in several other festivals including Brooklyn Comedy Festival, Bridgetown, Rogue Island, and the Women in Comedy Festival.

Tickets are $20 in advance, available at thedallescivic.com. Group tickets are also available while supplies last. Tickets at the door will be $5 more. Note: Due to mature content, this is an 18 and over show.

Live Music at Double Mountain

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

Thursday, April 11, Blue Jay Blue (Rock-folk), 6:30 p.m.

Friday, April 12, Hank Topless and Forest Grove Outlaws (Honkytonk), 7:30 p.m.

Thursday, April 18, Leon Majcen (Folk), 6:30 p.m.

Friday, April 19, Jay Si Proof (Indie Funk), 7:30 p.m.

Thursday, April 25, Dumpster Joe (Old-time Jugband), 6:30 p.m.

Saturday, April 27, Leadbetter & Moore (Rock), 7:30 p.m.

The Garden Show at The Dalles Art Center

The Dalles Art Center presents The Garden Show exhibit, April 18 through May 23. Featuring artists of the greater Cascadia area whose work answers the question: How does nature show up in our everyday lives through a garden? Opening Night Party, Thursday, April 18, 5 - 7 pm.

About The Event

The Dalles Art Center & TDAC Landscaping Committee and The Beautification Committee of The City of The Dalles present an exhibit and multi-week schedule of programs around the concept that the beauty of nature can be found in the garden.

The exhibit at TDAC will showcase regional Cascadia artists who are creating work in response to the prompt: How does nature show up in our everyday lives through a garden? Historically, gardens have been designed to tame the wild with the use of landscaping tools and chemicals. In more recent years, aligned with the effort to create pollinator/bird/animal-friendly green spaces has helped to increase the use of native plants and to reduce the use of chemicals. In this exhibit, artists are reckoning with the concepts of traditional and non-traditional standards of beauty as they explore the wild in our everyday lives. Pieces must depict a garden/green space or be made to be placed in a garden. All mediums will be represented: paintings, drawings, prints, sculptures, ceramic art and textile/fabric arts.

Clubs meet at TD Library

Bookclubs and more meet at The Dalles Library:

Clubs meet at TD Library

Bookclubs and more meet at The Dalles Library:

Tuesday, April 9, Online Author event with Diane Foley, 11 a.m.

https://libraryc.org/wascocountylibrary/44780/register

Wednesday, April 10, Adventure Readers Book Club, 3 p.m.

Wednesday, April 11, Fantasy Book Club, 6 p.m.

Monday, April 15, Wildfire Safety Class, 5:30 p.m.

Saturday, April 20, LEGO Master Class with Kelly Bartlett, noon

Live Music at The Pines

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

Thursday, April 11, Bob Connolly, 4 p.m.

Friday, April 12, The Growlerz, 6 p.m.

Saturday, April 13, Wine Club Release Party, 3-5 p.m.

Sunday, April 14, TBA

Monday, April 15, Open Mic Night, 5-8 p.m.

Thursday, April 18, Billy Mickelson, 4 p.m.

Friday, April 19, County Line, 6 p.m.

Sunday, April 21, Dan Boller, 3 p.m.

Thursday, April 25, Brigid’s Crossing Duo, 4 p.m.

Friday, April 26, Big River Blues Band, 6 p.m.

Sunday, April 28, TBA

Thursday, May 2, John Bunzow, 4 p.m.

Live Music at 64oz Taphouse
64oz Taphouse in Hood River presents live music onstage from local and regional musicians.

Wednesday, April 17, Lisa Mann with JT Thomas, 7 p.m.

Live Music at Mosier Company

Mosier Company in Mosier brings live local and regional music to the stage.

Sunday, April 14, Jeff Minnick, 6-8 p.m.

Sunday, April 28, Special all day event with Montana’s The Dead & Down, 4-9 p.m.

Mid Columbia Senior Center

April Music Schedule: Mondays, Tuesdays and Thursdays (no music April 18) at 11 a.m.

‘Taking Shape” at 301 Gallery

Featuring artwork constructed from Fiber, Ceramics, and Felt, “Taking Shape” is on display at the 301 Gallery in Hood River through April.

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.

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/

‘Roll On’ at Granada theater

The Granada Theater in The Dalles presents Alabama Tribute Band “Roll On,” on Saturday, April 13. “Roll On - A tribute to Alabama was born of appreciation and love for the timeless music of the country legends. They bring the tight harmonies, infectious energy, and excellent musicianship that is the hallmark of the Alabama sound.”

Tickets available at: https://aftontickets.com/event/buyticket/38jy44nj71

April 27, Taken By the Sky (Fleetwood Mac Tribute)

Taken By The Sky - Fleetwood Mac tribute captures audiences with their authentic performance of the iconic band at the height of their career, representing the music known & loved by millions. The 6-piece from Portland, OR has taken flight with their gorgeous harmonies, unmistakable musicianship and captivating stage show.

https://aftontickets.com/event/buyticket/7pj6mmgxr0

April 28, Geoff Tate (Former Queensrÿche Vocalist)

https://checkout.square.site/buy/XRNHLSPAARQKCZTKLAUGEMRG

May 3, Riders in the Sky (Award-winning Western music)

https://granadatheatrethedalles.com/events-and-buy-tickets/5-3-riders-in-the-sky/

Live Music at Kickstand Coffee

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

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 Zim’s

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

Tuesday, April 9, Reddy Black Trio, 7-9 p.m.

Friday, April 12, Big River Blues Band, 7-9:30 p.m.

Saturday, April 13, Exit 84, 7-9:30 p.m.

Tuesday, April 16, Reddy Black Trio, 7-9 p.m.

Friday, April 19, Gunshy, 7-9:30 p.m.

Saturday, April 20, Rich and Blonde, 7-9:30 p.m.

Tuesday, April 23, Reddy Black Trio, 7-9 p.m.

Friday, April 26, Peppa Jam, 7-9:30 p.m.

Saturday, April 27, Dave Tallman, 7-9:30 p.m.

Tuesday, April 30, Reddy Black Trio, 7-9 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.

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:

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, May 1

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.

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.

Saturday, April 20, Up In Smoke! With LOKI and mr_odd, 8 p.m.

Up In Smoke! A 4/20 celebration with an EDM twist! House, Techno, Electro, and Drum & Bass Remixes of classic stoner jams featuring the music of Rick James, Luniz, The Fugees, Bob Marley and more alongside a selection of electronic hits. 21+ only.

Saturday, April 27, Sundiver w/ Bisti, 7:30 p.m.

Doors 7:30 p.m., 21+ only, Tickets: $7 ADV // $10 DOOR

undergroundmusicatation.simpletix.com

Friday, May 3, Greenneck Daredevils, Band of Comerados, 7:30 p.m. tickets $15 adv/ $20 door. Local heroes Greenneck Daredevils are teaming up with jamgrass superstars Band of Comerados for what promises to be a co-bill for the ages. 21+ only, $15 ADV // $20 DOOR

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!

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 April 1 and April 15.

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.

Line Dance at Mid Columbia Senior Center

‘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