Authorities are searching for a The Dalles man accused of sexually abusing a young child after he failed to appear for sentencing this week in Wasco County Circuit Court.

The Dalles Budget Committee wrapped up its review of the proposed 2026-27 budget Tuesday, focusing on police modernization efforts and a proposed $2.75 million emergency reserve before voting to advance the budget to City Council.

More than 30 Colonel Wright Elementary students performed community marimba concerts across The Dalles this week, continuing a tradition built through years of local support.

On Thursday, May 21, 2026, the City of The Dalles Public Works contractor will cut and remove trees near Brewery Grade.

The Dalles Budget Committee spent Monday night wrestling with declining street revenues, a looming $75 million-plus water treatment plant replacement and the long-term costs of maintaining city systems as officials warned difficult funding decisions are approaching.

Disposal of the sediment to the Wasco County Landfill, “is not only environmentally and socially the worst option, but also financially. The cost of this is potentially 6 billion dollars, with seventy percent of that cost being in transportation… that is a six billion dollar investment in fossil fuel burning.”

Early-season fire restrictions are now in place on portions of Central Oregon rivers and recreation areas as dry conditions raise wildfire concerns heading into summer.

North Central Public Health District is bringing a new lead-detecting device to the Wasco County Children’s Fair, giving families a chance to test household items for hidden contamination.

A four-day bluegrass campout in Shaniko aims to do more than fill the town with music — organizers hope it sparks a long-term rural arts movement across Central and Eastern Oregon.

The Columbia Gorge Humane Society is proud to announce the successful completion of its 2025 spay and neuter assistance program, providing 172 free surgeries for dogs and cats belonging to low-income families throughout The Dalles through July 1, 2026.

On Monday, May 18, 2026, the City of The Dalles Public Works will repave the section of Old Dufur Rd. impacted by recent new utility service installation projects.

The North Wasco County Education Foundation (NWCEF) is proud to announce the recipients of its Spring 2026 Classroom Mini-Grant awards.

The City of The Dalles has declared a state of emergency under Ordinance No. 25-1412 following Wasco County’s order banning fireworks due to fire-related safety concerns. As a result, the use of all fireworks is now prohibited within City limits.

This week The Gorge Giggin’ Guide is bringing you Diversity - whether it’s the Community Celebrations of Maupin Daze or a chance to catch Authentic Irish Music - The Gorge is an Equal Opportunity List of Gigs you Need to Experience! Get Out There!

The need for trusted, culturally responsive services has never been greater. Many individuals and families turn to The Next Door during some of the most challenging moments of their lives, searching for guidance, support, and hope.  

The Dalles Public Library has a full slate of May programs for children, teens, adults, and families, including crafts, book clubs, STEAM activities, performances, and virtual author events.

CCCNews staffers Josh Albert and Aaron Girdham trade stories about journalism, music, hiking, coffee and movies in a relaxed behind-the-scenes podcast introducing the people behind the reporting.

This Saturday, May 9th, community members across the Columbia Gorge have an easy opportunity to make a meaningful difference: leave a bag of nonperishable food near their mailbox, and their letter carrier will do the rest.

On Tuesday, May 5, 10:24 p.m., Oregon State Police responded to a vehicle versus pedestrian fatal crash on Highway 97 near milepost 61.5 in Wasco County.

Adventist Health Columbia Gorge’s move toward Critical Access Hospital status comes as rural hospitals across Oregon and the nation face mounting financial pressure, staffing shortages and uncertainty over future Medicaid funding.