EnglishSpanish
CCC Logo 1_4 Rainbow No1.png

Welcome, friends.

Columbia Community Connection was established in 2020 as a local, honest and digital news source providing meaningful stories and articles. CCC News’ primary goal is to inform and elevate all the residents and businesses of the Mid-Columbia Region. A rising tide lifts all boats, hop in!

All the Entertainment You Could Ask For And Then Some: The Loop Ninja Performs at Bargeway July 28

All the Entertainment You Could Ask For And Then Some: The Loop Ninja Performs at Bargeway July 28

Bargeway Pub & Catering’s Entertainment Weekly

By Jim Drake

The Dalles, OR, July 25, 2023— The Gorge is the spot to be in terms of entertainment this week! And as usual, Bargeway Pub & Catering is the spot to be to hear live music over the weekend! This weekend’s line-up of musicians includes local favorites Jeff Carrell, Reddy Black Trio, and Jamie Nasario as well as the one, the only, Loop Ninja AKA Tony Smiley.

Jamie Nasario

Wednesday 6:30 p.m., Jamie Nasario 

Thursday, 6:30 p.m. Jeff Carrell

Friday, 7:00 p.m. Tony Smiley- The Loop Ninja
”This musical savant loops his way through a unique genre of music that you won’t find anywhere else. All with a witty, engaging, and energetic stage presence. His cosmic dance of electric melodies range from rock, hip hop, reggae, tribal fusion, 80's and everything in between, with a dash of Mongolian throat singing and beat-boxing have earned the loop ninja a cult like following that repeatedly embarks on his musical journey.” - TonySmiley.net

Saturday 1:00 p.m. Jeff Carrell 

Saturday 7:00 p.m. Street Value

Sunday 1:00 p.m. Jeff Carrel

Sunday 6:00 p.m. Reddy Black Trio

Hood River County Fair 2023

Morgan Evans

Steers, Swine and Summertime is the theme for the Hood River County Fair July 26-29, featuring exhibits, carnival rides, pony rides, OMSI activities, Godfrey the Magician, Wildlife Wendy and Tropical Birds, Sea Lion Splash, and a Mechanical Bull. Music on the Main Stage includes:

Friday, July 28, Los Morros del Norte and Dueto Voces del Rancho (7:30 p.m.)

Saturday, July 29, Country music from Morgan Evans with opening band Roll On (Alabama tribute) (7:15 p.m.)

Note: General Admission tickets and Concert Tickets required for concert admission. General Admission Tickets, Fair Ride Tickets and Concert Tickets available at:

https://www.hoodriverfairgrounds.com/p/tickets--deals?fbclid=IwAR2i4bJFzybVdm3CCiY4QxMCRZUC_K6ovYUnnPZeq_fLO7qegzJWwMogjXc

About the Artist

“Australian-born country phenom Morgan Evans is striking a chord with fans with the release of his new single “Over For You.” Evans debuted the deeply personal track, lauded by Billboard as “absolutely one of [his] best releases to date,” during his headlining set at Australia’s CMC Rocks QLD Festival, in front of a sold out 25,000 fans. Clips of the emotional performance amassed hundreds of thousands of views, as well as thousands of comments filled with shared stories of heartbreak, all within just a few days, prompting its immediate release to country radio. The vulnerable song follows Evans’ latest EP, The Country And The Coast Side A, where he set aside his signature loop pedal to collaborate with a band of musicians for the first time in his U.S. career. The EP builds outward and upward from the foundation Evans created with his debut album “Things That We Drink.”

Pacific Crest Trail Days 2023

Pacific Crest Trail Days returns to Cascade Locks Friday and Saturday, Aug. 18-19, with an Outdoor Gear Expo and Marketplace with over 100 exhibiting sponsors. Free daily admission, and paid camping spots available. More information at:

https://www.facebook.com/pctdays

Shaniko Days Festival 2023

Shaniko Days Festival returns Friday, Saturday and Sunday, Aug. 4, 5, and 6.

Friday Entertainment

Idaho Fiddlers.

Music by Craig Nichols.

Wampus Cats

Saturday Entertainment

Parade (10 a.m.)

Free Chili Feed (Noon) Sponsored by South Wasco County Alliance

Gunfighters

Music from Phoenix (Duo)

John Bowerman - Poet

Demonstrations, Vendors, Arts - Craft, Petting Zoo, Raffles & More!

Saturday Night Dance Concert with Countrified, 7 p.m.

Sunday Relax and enjoy the music and vendors!

Shaniko RV & tent Space Available -

Call 971-804-0305 for reservations.

Fill out a survey from South Wasco County Alliance and receive a Chili meal, and $5 voucher

Dufur Threshing Bee 2023

The Dufur Threshing Bee is back! The 2nd weekend of August, the town turns out with this vibrant small-town festival celebrating 175 years of local wheat farming. Threshing Bee includes incredible living-history demonstrations, a classic small-town parade, a tractor pull competition, craft fair, and antique car show. Visitors tour the old one room schoolhouse, log cabin, cookhouse and blacksmith shop, and as the day cools down on Saturday, we gather on the grounds of the Balch for a hometown steak dinner and live music. Jump to the comments for more details!

2023 Dufur Threshing Bee Schedule

Saturday, Aug. 12

6-11 a.m. Dufur Christian Church Country Breakfast Dufur City Park

9 a.m. – 4 p.m. Museum Opens

Schreiber Cabin, Endersby One Room Schoolhouse , Metzentine Building Exhibits, Quilt Show

Horse Drawn Equipment on display w/narration

Blacksmith Shop – w/narration

9 a.m. Festival Grounds Open

Petting Zoo & Old-Fashioned Games

Local Artisan Booths, Food Vendors

Steam Engine Display

10 a.m. Hometown Tractor Parade

11 a.m. – 2 p.m. Field Demonstrations

Harvesting, threshing, binding and grinding on the Threshing Bee Grounds

1 p.m. Tractor Pull

4 p.m. – 7 p.m. Hometown dinner & music Saturday, Aug. 12 at the Balch Hotel.

8 p.m. Movie in the Park

Sunday, August 13

7 a.m. – 11 a.m. Dufur Christian Church Country Breakfast Dufur City Park

8 a.m. – 3 p.m. Vintage car show at the Dufur City Park

9 a.m. Local Artisan & Vendor booths open

9 a.m. Dufur Christian Church Service

10 a.m. – 2 p.m. Transportation from Threshing Bee grounds to Car Show

10:30 a.m. – 12 p.m. Threshing and Ploughing demonstrations

Hare Ball at Bargeway Pub

Join The Dalles locals Al Hare and Brewer's Grade Band for an evening of music, drink and formal dress on Friday, Aug. 4, at 7 p.m. Let's have a party in The Dalles’ Bargeway Pub's newly remodeled event center. Note: This is Brewer's Grade Band's only performance in The Dalles in 2023, so you don't want to miss it!

Ice Cream Socials at History Museum of Hood River County

Old-fashioned Ice Cream Socials are scheduled at the History Museum of Hood River County. Expect Ice Cream and lawn games like Hoop Trundling, hopscotch, and more. Artisans will be on hand for fiber arts demonstrations on the July 25 event.

Tuesday, July 25, 4-6 p.m.

Tuesday, Aug. 22, 4-6 p.m.

2023 Harvest Fest tickets on sale now

The Hood River Valley Harvest Fest returns to the Gorge Oct. 13-15. Presented by Toyota, Harvest Fest features live music, kids activities, produce, fine arts, crafts, and everything else fall related at the Hood River Event Site. Tickets are on sale now at: bit.ly/Harvest2023

Live Music at The Ruins

The Ruins in Hood River presents live music featuring touring NW acts and local bands. Doors open 5:30 p.m. Show starts at 6 p.m. Admission is $3 before/$8 after 7 p.m.

Family Worship Center

Thursday, July 27, Family Worship Center w/ Alex Dunn

“Family Worship Center specializes in a strain of redemptive, 1970s-styled rock n’ roll that recalls the Rolling Stones, Leon Russell, The Band, and Delaney & Bonnie. The Family’s upcoming offering—it’s first long player “Kicked Out Of The Garden,” features a core band of devoted musicians, and was produced by Portland go-to producer Cameron Spies (Spoon Benders, Shivas) who specializes in what he calls “mid-fi.” “Kicked Out Of The Garden” was tracked in Portland with additional recording done in Philadelphia and Ukraine."

Tuesday, Aug. 1, The Quick & Easy Boys w/ James Low

“The Quick & Easy Boys is a music band that plays songs and and says "Yeah Bud" sometimes. James Low writes real nice songs and sings like an Eastern Oregon angel.”

Movies at Granada Theater

The Granada Theater in The Dalles presents the 1952 classic “Singin’ in the Rain,” on Friday and Saturday, July 28-29. Doors open 5:30 p.m. and showtime at 6 p.m. RSVP Dinner available.

Live Music at Double Mountain

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

Friday, July 28, Quattlebalm, 7:30 p.m.

Live Music at Zim’s

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

Friday, July 28, Peppa Jam, 7-9:30 p.m.

Saturday, July 29, Arthur Buezo, 7-9:30 p.m.

Music, Clubs meet at TD Library

The Dalles Library hosts a wide range of activities including:

Tuesday, July 25, Magician Jay Frasier - Kids Show, 10:30 a.m.

Tuesday, July 25, Sci-Fi Book Club, 5 p.m.

Wednesday, July 26, Teen Underground Radio, 3:30 p.m.

Friday, July 28, Teen Graphic Novel Book Club, 3:30 p.m.

Live music at Working Hands

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

David Larsen

Friday, July 28, David Larsen (Jazz), 7:30 p.m.

Saturday, July 29, Cary Novotny (Acoustic), 7:30 p.m.

Sunday, July 30, Open Mic hosted by Tim Decker, 6 p.m.

Sunshine Mill Drive-In Movies

Sunshine Mill in The Dalles presents Drive-in movies on the Big Outdoor Screen. Movies start at 9 p.m. and tickets per carload are available online:

Friday, July 28, Fast and Furious

Buy Ticket

Saturday, July 29, Dazed and Confused

Buy Ticket

Live Music at Trout Lake Hall

Trout Lake Hall in Trout Lake, Washington is bringing live music back to the Historic building’s stage.

Thursday, July 27, Open Mic Night with Lincoln Crockett, 5 p.m. (Free event)

Friday-Saturday, July 28-29, TK & The Holy Know-Nothings' 2-Day Weekend Event With Michael Hurley & Many More (Ticketed Event)

Portland’s Psychedelic Doom Boogie Group Throws 2 Day Music Festival. Festival and Day Passes Available. All Ages Show.

FRIDAY

5 p.m. TK & Friends Welcome Set

5:45 p.m. Willy Tea Taylor

7 p.m. Michael Hurley - Solo

8:15 p.m. TK & The Holy Know-Nothings

SATURDAY

3 p.m. Hell Nancy

3:45 p.m. Marisa Anderson

5 p.m. Jay Cobb Anderson

5:45 p.m. Michael Hurley Band

7:15 p.m. Dean Johnson

8:30 p.m. TK & The Holy Know-Nothings

Thursday, Aug. 3, Brad Parsons (Solo) (Free event), 6 p.m.

Singer-Songwriter/Multi-Instrumentalist from Astoria

More information and tickets at: https://www.troutlakehall.com/

Live music at Hood River’s Farmers’ Market

The Hood River Farmers’ Market happens every Saturday from May to November, downtown Hood River in the parking lot on Columbia Street. Enjoy live music from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. with local and regional artists.

Sam Humans

Saturday, July 29, Sam Humans

Saturday, Aug. 5, Olson Family Music

Saturday, Aug. 12, Ben Bonham

Saturday, Aug. 19, Pure Fund Band

Saturday, Aug. 26, Kyle Glenn

Little Music City Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony

Bargeway Pub in The Dalles hosts the Third Annual Little Music City Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony on Sunday, July 30, at 3 p.m., celebrating the music of Les Vaughn (1943-2021). The public is invited to celebrate Les Vaughn’s legacy, and share your stories of this memorable local musician.

About the Honoree

For decades, Les was a pivotal figure in live music performance throughout the Mid-Columbia area. As a singer, songwriter, and prolific performer, he had a tremendous impact on hundreds of other players.

Columbia Gorge Bluegrass Festival 2023

The Columbia Gorge Bluegrass Festival returns to Stevenson, Wash., July 27-30 with a full lineup of bluegrass bands, camping, workshops, barn dances and more. Full event and day passes available at

http://new.columbiagorgebluegrass.net/

Festival Schedule

THURSDAY

7 p.m. JAMMER’S JAMBOREE

FRIDAY

3 p.m. JOSH COLE BAND

4 p.m. JOHN & STEVE REISCHMAN

5 p.m. ANNIE STANINEC WITH WHISKEY DEAF

6 p.m. DINNER

7 p.m. ROCK RIDGE

8 p.m. JACOB JOLLIFF

9 p.m. JOHN REISCHMAN

10 p.m. SQUARE DANCE WITH STEPH NOLL (Free event)

SATURDAY

10 a.m. INSTRUMENT WORKSHOPS (TBD)

2 p.m.: CHICKS KIDS

3 p.m. PATRICK CONNELL & THE RADIO PONIES

4 p.m. ROCKRIDGE

5 p.m. COLIN O’BRIEN

6 p.m. DINNER

7 p.m. JOHN REISCHMAN BAND

8 p.m. ANNIE STANINEC WITH WHISKEY DEAF

9 p.m. JACOB JOLLIFF

10 p.m. COUNTRY DANCE “HI STEPPIN’BAND” (Free event)

SUNDAY

10 a.m. BILL JOLLIFF AND GUEST

Artist Talk at The Dalles Art Center

Join The Dalles Art Center on Friday, July 28, at 7 p.m., for a conversation with Myrna Anderson & Charlene Rivers, the landscape painters in the Geometry & Whimsy exhibit. They will share their thoughts on their approaches and what inspires them to create work.

https://www.thedallesartcenter.org/events/artist-talk-geometry-whimsy

‘Big Read’ at White Salmon Library

White Salmon Library presents a summer Big Read selection with “A Very Typical Family,” by Sierra Godfrey. This title is available as an e-book or audiobook through July 27, at https://fortvancouver.overdrive.com/

Capturing life and pain with poetic ease and plain honesty is what the emerging Americana sensation does well. Brit writes and sings about what she lives, what she knows. Real Me, her debut album being released November 20, is a self-reflective, 10-song LP telling of a journey to self-awareness. The aptly titled album has a unique vulnerability that is both empathetic and empowering.

Live Music at Solera Brewery

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

Monday, July 31, Justin Harris (Acoustic Country & Rock), 6 p.m.

Live Music at Clocktower Ales

Clocktower Ales in The Dalles brings live local music to the stage.

Thursday, July 27, Open Mic with Cary Novotny, 7 p.m.

Live Music at Everybody’s Brewing

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

Monday, July 24, Hwy 14 Duo (Rock, Blues), 6-8 p.m.

Monday, July 31, Nick Orr (Acoustic Loops), 6-8 p.m.

Free Summer Concert Series at Balch Hotel

The Balch Hotel in Dufur is hosting a series of six outdoor concerts this summer on its scenic, mountain-view grounds. Expect to hear the sounds of Delta blues, melodic folk, and rootsy Americana July through September. There is no cover charge for guests dining or staying at the hotel, though the hoteliers will collect optional pay-what-you-will donations to support the series and musicians. Shows are 5:30 - 7:30 p.m. Bring your own chairs and blankets.

Balch Concert Schedule

The Balch Hotel in Dufur announces concert schedule.

Saturday, July 29, Arthur C. Lee (Blues/Folk)

Friday, Aug. 11, Tevis Hodge Jr. (Southern Blues)

Saturday, Aug. 19, Kendall Lujan (Indie-folk)

Saturday, Aug. 26, Rose Gerber (Alt-Country)

Friday, Sept. 8, Hayley Lynn (Indie-pop)

Friday, Sept. 22, Robert Meade (Americana)

Next Door Benefit at Syncline Winery

A fund-raising event for the non-profit group The Next Door is scheduled for Saturday, July 29, at Syncline Winery in Lyle, Wash., starting at 5 p.m., with music from Amber Skies (Amber Nelson, George Bentz, Mark Daly).

Blockbuster Movie Nights at Hood River Library

Join the Hood River County Library for a showing of favorite Blockbuster movie sequels Fridays in July and August, at 5 p.m. Most movies are best for Teens and Adults, snacks provided.

July 28 - Muppet Treasure Island (G - all ages)

Aug 4 - Spider-Man 2 (PG-13)

Aug 11 - Star Trek II: The Wrath of Khan (PG)

Aug 18 - Jurassic Park: The Lost World (PG-13)

Aug 25 - Paddington 2 (G - All ages)

‘Bob: A Life in Five Acts’ at Bingen Theater

Big Britches Productions presents “Bob: A Life in Five Acts,” at the Bingen Theater, beginning on Friday, Aug. 11. Performances continue Aug. 12, 13, 18, 19, 20, 25 and 26.

Tickets available at: https://www.bigbritches.org/bob-a-life-in-five-acts-tickets

About the Play

Bob: A Life in Five Acts chronicles the highly unusual life of Bob and his lifelong quest to become a “Great Man.” Born and abandoned in the bathroom of a fast food restaurant, Bob energetically embarks on an epic journey across America and encounters inspiring generosity, crushing hardships, blissful happiness, stunning coincidences, wrong turns, lucky breaks, true love and heartbreaking loss. Along the way, Bob meets a myriad of fellow countrymen all struggling to find their own place in the hullaballoo of it all. Will Bob’s real life ever be able to live up to his dream? BOB is a comedic exploration of American mythology and values, the treacherous pursuit of happiness, and discovering what it means to be truly “great."

Written by Peter Sinn Nachtrieb. Directed by Joe Garoutte. This production contains adult subject matter and situations appropriate for those 13 and older. Show contains some language and sexual themes. Run Time: Approx. 2 hours

Live Music at Jacob Williams Winery

Jacob Williams Winery brings local and regional music to the stage at its tasting room in Lyle, Wash.

Saturday, July 22, Robert Meade (Americana), 1-4 p.m.

Saturday, July 29, Ryan Durgan, (Acoustic), 1-4 p.m.

Kathryn Claire at Historic Herbring House

Folk musicians Kathryn Claire and Margot Merah perform in the Courtyard at the Herbring House in The Dalles on Wednesday, July 26, at 7 p.m. Contact Victor Johnson at victor@victorjohnson.com for tickets and more information.

Printmaker display at 301 Gallery

301 Gallery in Hood River presents works by Tom Callos, printmaker, on display in July. The show features art prints of political activists, philosophers, academics, authors, and more.

Families in the Park at Jackson Park

Families in the Park Concerts return to Jackson Park in Hood River on Thursdays in August. Music starts at 7 p.m.

Thursday, Aug. 3, Hit Machine (Classic rock)

Thursday, Aug. 10, Taken by the Sky (Fleetwood Mac Tribute)

Thursday, Aug. 17, Jennifer Batten and Full Steam

Thursday, Aug. 24, Cloverdayle (Original country-rock)

Thursday, Aug. 31, Foreverland (Michael Jackson Tribute)

Live Music at Route 30

Route 30 Bottles and Brew in The Dalles hosts weekly live music events, trivia nights and more.

Monday Night: Musician Mondays

Tuesday Night: Band Jam for House Band Practice (7 p.m.)

Wednesday Night: Useless Knowledge Trivia Night (6:30 p.m.)

Thursday Night: Thirsty Thursday with House Band (7 p.m.)

Friday Night: Karaoke Night (7 p.m.)

Saturday, July 29, Comedy Show (Ticketed event)

Cascadia Campout Art, Music Festival

According to reports “Cascadia Campout is an intentional gathering in the Pacific Northwest with a purpose to honor the land, deepen connection, and share diverse forms of expression.” The three-day campout features 20 Indie Bands, art, workshops and more. Friday, Saturday and Sunday, July 28-30, at 41 Cougar Creek Rd, in Skamania, Washington. Tickets available at: https://www.cascadiacampout.org/event-details/cascadia-campout-2023

Live music at Grateful Vineyard

Grateful Vineyard’s (Mt. Hood) Rock in the Vines Music Series is on Sunday afternoons from 3-5 p.m. All ages are welcome, friendly dogs on leashes too. No cover charge.

Sunday, July 30 - Megan Alder & the Woods

Live Music at Stave and Stone

Stave and Stone’s Winery at the Vineyard (3827 Fletcher Drive, Hood River) brings live music to the stage on Sundays from 3-5 p.m.

Sunday, July 30, Chic Preston Trio (Roots, Jazz)

Diamonds & Denim Dance Party

Diamonds & Denim - A Dance Party to Benefit The Dalles Art Center is happening on Saturday, Sept. 16. Tickets go on sale Friday, July 7. Get your best Denim & Diamonds outfits ready for a night of dancing, socializing and supporting the local art community. The evening will feature Host and Auctioneer Archer Mayo, Line Dancing with Kat and wine from The Pines 1852. Tickets at:

https://www.thedallesartcenter.org/events/diamonds-denim-a-dance-party-to-benefit-the-dalles-art-center

Live Music at Thunder Island

Thunder Island Brewing in Cascade Locks presents live music, trivia nights and more, including the Sunset Live Music Series.

Wednesday, July 26, Megan Alder Duo, 6-9 p.m.

Live music at Tabby’s Hole in One

Live Music at Tabby’s Hole in One

Tabby’s Hole in One Clubhouse at the Hood River Golf Course presents live music with local and regional bands.

Wednesday, July 26, The Good Notes, 6 p.m.

The Good Notes

Live Music at The Pines

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

Julie Yanko

Thursday, July 27, Happy Hour with Julie Yänko, 4-6 p.m.

Friday, July 28, The Surf Lords, 6-9 p.m.

Music & Magicians in the Park

The Dalles Public Library and Northern Wasco County Parks and Rec have partnered to bring Music and Magicians in the Park, to be held Wednesdays in The Dalles City Park, at 6 p.m. The program runs through August 2.

Heather Pearl

Wednesday, July 26, features the amazing Heather Pearl. She will entertain with juggling, magic and physical comedy. You'll find yourself laughing before the show even starts.

Wednesday, Aug. 2, features the Magical Mr. M; his show is an interactive program, inspiring children to explore fun and thrilling adventures in reading.

‘Summer Reading Nights at the Library’ feature music and more

The Hood River County Library presents “Nights at the Library” with special music and presentations throughout the summer:

Wednesday, July 26, Messy Field Day, Crafts and Outdoor Fun, 5:30 p.m.

Wednesday, Aug. 2, Dragon Theater Puppet Show, 5:30 p.m.

Wednesday, Aug. 9, Red Yarn, Interactive Music, 5:30 p.m.

Wednesday, Aug. 16, Reptile Man Returns, 5:30 p.m.

‘Lavender Daze’ events at Hood River Lavender Farm

The Hood River Lavender Farm (3823 Fletcher Driver, Hood River) is hosting live music in July, celebrating Lavender Daze. Family-Friendly, free admission. Music is 1-3 p.m.

Saturday, July 29, Alonzo Garbanzo (Singer-songwriter)

Arlington Show N Shine

The Arlington Show N Shine returns Saturday, July 29. Registration starts at 9 a.m., Judging at Noon, Awards Ceremony at 2:30 p.m. $10 per car. Enjoy a Hula Hoop Contest, Cornhole games, Duck Races and the Pop Artisan Market.

Live Music at Mosier Company

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

Thursday, July 27, County Line, 6-8 p.m.

Friday, July 28, Wasco Brothers, 6-8 p.m.

Sunday, July 30, Spruce, 6-8 p.m.




Fire Fundraiser to Support Milepost 87 Fire Victims Kicks off July 29

Fire Fundraiser to Support Milepost 87 Fire Victims Kicks off July 29

Big Jim's Drive-In Revives Local Legend: The Ranch

Big Jim's Drive-In Revives Local Legend: The Ranch

\ EnglishSpanish