This Week at The Dalles Library: July 21, 2025
Pizza, video games, ice cream, music, magic, art, and even a little boot-scootin’ — this week at The Dalles Public Library is packed with fun and inspiration for all ages. Whether you’re diving into a book discussion, crafting something unique, or dancing in the park, the library has something to make your summer shine.
UPDATE, July 20, 10 AM: Burdoin Fire Destroys Homes, Forces Lyle Evacuations as Blaze Grows to 8,500 Acres
Firefighters worked through the night to protect homes, build fire lines and battle spot fires, particularly on the eastern edge of the blaze, where the fire jumped the Klickitat River and advanced on Lyle. More than 250 structures remain threatened, officials said, with at least 37 primary structures damaged and 14 destroyed so far.
Thoughts from the Tractor Seat: The Tariff Trap — When Tough Talk Costs Us the Farm
They say tariffs are about fairness. They call them leverage. They tell us to "hold the line" for the good of the nation. But when you’re the one standing in the line of fire, all that tough talk starts to sound a little hollow.
TD Council awards $600k contract for planning, design of Federal St. Plaza
Council voted to award a $619,212 professional services contract to Portland-based landscape architecture and urban design firm Walker Macy, LLC for planning and design of the long-anticipated Federal Street Plaza project.
CCCNews Podcast: Double Mountain Founder Shares Craft Brewing Journey, Philosophy on Beer and Pizza
From aerospace engineer to craft brewing pioneer, Matt Swihart’s path to founding Double Mountain Brewery was anything but ordinary. In a recent appearance on the CCC News Podcast, Swihart shared his story of how passion, persistence, and a touch of rebellion shaped one of Hood River’s most beloved breweries and pubs.
Lawrence Brothers Lead The Dalles Swim Team to Strong Summer Showing
The Dalles Swim Team has been making a splash this summer, enjoying sunny weather and heating up the competition in the pool.
Sheriff: Funding shortfalls slash public safety services in Hood River County
Cuts will impact parole and probation services, marine patrols, mental health programs for first responders, search and rescue operations, and emergency management.
WAGAP Thrift Store closes permanently
It is the end of an era for Second Hand Rose, the community thrift store in Bingen operated by Washington Gorge Action Programs (WAGAP). The store, which was already undergoing a remodel to downsize, has officially received notice from the WAGAP Board of Directors, which voted unanimously in June to permanently close the space.
Gorge Giggin’ Guide Highlights July 16-22
Check out the CCCNews events guide calendar for the gorge-wide comprehensive listing.
Urban Renewal: $31 M Basalt Commons intends to break ground within 6 months, needs $1.7 M grant extension
Developer is just weeks away from securing funding to construct the 116-apartment Basalt Commons on the former Griffith Motors site. Shovels could dig in as early as the end of the year.
Horses, Heat, and Heart: Ride the West Returns to The Dalles
This past weekend, Laurie Branch, her very capable teen helpers, and some awesome horses spent three very hot, grueling days and nights at Fort Dalles Riders Club in order to bring an amazing experience to nine brave young campers.
This Week at The Dalles Library: July 14, 2025
Ready to power up your summer? From a Legend of Zelda scavenger hunt to snowball fights in July, live magic at the park, Pac-Man tag, line dancing, and even free movies, The Dalles Public Library is brimming with creative, playful, and family-friendly events. Don’t miss your chance to learn, laugh, and connect with your community — one unforgettable experience at a time.
USDA Offers Aid to Farmers With Crop Losses due to fire, drought in ‘23 & ‘24
Fed creates new $16 billion fund for Local farmers and ranchers impacted by wildfires, drought and other natural disasters in 2023 and 2024. You can now apply for federal assistance through the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Supplemental Disaster Relief Program.
School Board to hold exec. Session in first meeting with four new board members
In their first official meeting, new North Wasco County School District Board Members are set to have an executive session to consider the dismissal or disciplining of, or to hear complaints or charges brought against, a public officer, employee, staff member or individual agent who does not request an open hearing.
Column: Rigid OHA rules kill local behavioral health housing & treatment facilities
People are dying on our streets. They are dying in our communities. This is not hyperbole; it is the grim reality of OHA’s continued failure to support common-sense, community-driven solutions like the Columbia Gorge Resolution Center. While we work to build solutions from the ground up, OHA’s rigid and legally questionable policies actively stand in our way.
South Wasco Alliance Launches Jobs Creation and Workforce Planning Initiative to Address Local Service Gaps
The South Wasco Alliance has launched a new jobs creation and workforce planning project aimed at identifying and supporting critical service roles across South Wasco County. The initiative is funded through a Community Economic Development Planning (CEDP) grant from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services.
Intersection of 12th & Thompson Closes July 14 for ADA and Roadwork Improvements
Starting July 14th, the intersection of 12th & Thompson will be closed for demolition and ADA construction. The intersection will be closed during working hours and reopened during the night. Closures are expected to be periodic as the phases of work commence.
Returning Home Safely After the Rowena Fire - Resources Available from State and Local Partners
As residents return to areas impacted by the Rowena Fire, safety remains a top priority. The Oregon Department of Emergency Management (OEM), Oregon Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ), and Wasco County strongly recommend that property owners not perform cleanup themselves because of the serious toxic hazard threats posed by burned homes and outbuildings.
The Dalles Art Center Announces Call for Artists, Instructors, and Vendors for Upcoming Hispanic Heritage Exhibit
This fall, The Dalles Art Center (TDAC) will come alive with color, rhythm, and flavor during its upcoming Hispanic Heritage Exhibit, an immersive, five-week celebration of Latino/a/e/x culture through visual arts, music, dance, food, and storytelling.
Rotary Clubs gain ‘hero status’ in humanitarian efforts
Rotary clubs in the Mid-Columbia were just elevated to hero status for helping people around the world through funding disaster relief efforts in war-torn countries or those ravaged by natural disasters.