The new TJ Maxx is providing The Dalles with a major retail clothing chain, drawing shoppers from across the Gorge and adding another regional destination to the local economy. Charles Rankin of The Dalles said TJ Maxx brings needed retail variety, reduces trips elsewhere and makes shopping easier locally.

Bentz says tariffs and unstable markets are battering Eastern Oregon farmers as wheat prices stagnate and oversupplied cherry crops collapse.