A high-society soirée turned into a night of suspense Wednesday, Feb. 19, as The Dalles-Wasco County Library hosted its Art Deco-inspired murder mystery, Death by Chocolate. 

The Dalles City Council adopted the Housing Production Strategy (HPS) at its January 27, 2025, meeting, marking a significant step toward addressing housing needs and affordability challenges.

Washington Gorge Action Programs (WAGAP) has launched a comprehensive new initiative offering support and resources to strengthen communication, collaboration, and connections within the community.

The National Center for American Indian Enterprise Development has announced the 2025 Native American 40 Under 40 honorees, recognizing individuals who have demonstrated leadership, initiative, and dedication to their communities.

The Dalles Civic Auditorium Children’s Theatre presents “Aladdin Jr.” March 1 & 8 at 7 p.m. and March 2 & 9 at 2 p.m. Aladdin JR. brings to life the beloved 1992 Disney film and the 2014 Broadway adaptation. It showcases over 30 talented students ages 8-13, from Oregon and Washington in an epic stage production that will surely leave spectators mesmerized.

In the heart of Wasco County, a remarkable partnership between the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife (ODFW) and local ranchers is transforming the aftermath of devastating wildfires into an inspiring story of resilience, collaboration, and innovation. Together, they are spearheading a cutting-edge drone-based reseeding effort aimed at restoring critical habitats and enhancing the landscape for wildlife and agriculture alike.

Co-owners Chuck and Debra Gomez have restored the art deco theater into a performing arts venue.  A band appearing on the evening of Feb. 22 necessitated the earlier starting time for the history program.

Yesterday, Feb. 14, a Blue Toyota Prius eluded the Oregon State Police in The Dalles. The vehicle fled east on I-84. At about 1530 hours, the Sherman County Sheriff’s Office located the vehicle in Biggs Junction.

Oregon State Police were jammed on Thursday, Feb. 13 as snowy and icy conditions sent them on a run of 13 motor vehicle accidents including a double car fire and two wrecks where people had to be cut out of their vehicles. 

This gravestone above lies behind the Columbia Gorge Community College sign on the Scenic Drive curve at the college's entrance in The Dalles.  It lies outside the upper boundary of Pioneer Cemetery.

But why?

Columbia Gorge Community College (CGCC) is proud to announce that Emilie Sanchez-Lopez, Equitable Funding Support Navigator, has been honored with the prestigious Rising Star Award at the 2025 Student Success and Retention Conference in Portland.

We take it outdoors in the wilds of downtown retail in The Dalles this week with Skookum Outfitter’s Allison Turner as we get the lowdown on upcoming events from TD Main Street’s Cynthia Kortge and a debrief on that delicious Chocolate Crawl and a quick kibosh on the rumor that Rite Aid is closing.

Four Rivers Early Learning Hub, in partnership with Books for Kids Columbia Gorge, proudly announces the allocation of $7000 in early literacy grant funding to local programs serving young children.

The City of The Dalles is excited to invite students to participate in the annual “If I Were Mayor” contest, an incredible opportunity for young voices to be heard and make an impact in their community. This contest encourages students to showcase their ideas on leadership, local government, and how they would improve the City for future generations.

Downtown The Dalles was buzzing with energy Friday night as chocolate lovers indulged in the annual Chocolate Crawl, the first First Friday event of the year hosted by The Dalles Main Street. 

Mid-Columbia Community Action Council (MCCAC), the region’s leading homeless services provider, announced that Leslie Naramore will join the organization as Interim Executive Director. Leslie begins her new role after more than seven years serving as the Executive Director of the MCCAC’s counterpart in Klickitat and Skamania Counties, Washington Gorge Action Programs (WAGAP).

Columbia Gorge Community College (CGCC) is making waves in the manufacturing world with its Advanced Manufacturing and Fabrication program. On a snowy February Friday, the college took delivery of a cutting-edge Mazak Optiplex 3015 2.5kW CO₂ Laser, further enhancing its ability to support local industries in prototyping and manufacturing.

Question of the Week: Who Are you Rooting For in the Super Bowl?

The Dalles Main Street is excited to announce the first First Friday of the new year, our annual Chocolate Crawl, set to take place Friday, February 7th from 4-7 pm in historic downtown The Dalles. This event is full of sweet treats for all of the special people in your lives as a variety of shops offer extended hours, discount deals, and delicious food and beverages just in time for Valentine’s Day. This year the Chocolate Crawl will feature all of your favorite locations!

The Dalles' Last Stop Saloon transformed into an artistic haven as it hosted "Paint Nite," led by local artist Denae' Manion.