New Team Takes Command of Grasshopper Fire near Mt. Hood as Low Humidity Challenges Crews
The Grasshopper Fire remains at 76% containment and 93,744 acres as a new management team takes command amid hot, dry conditions and stubbornly low humidity.
19-Year-Old Arrested in The Dalles after 16-mile pursuit that topped 100-Mph
A 19-year-old Vancouver man was arrested after allegedly fleeing police at more than 100 mph, blacking out his BMW’s headlights before spike strips ended the pursuit.
Grasshopper Fire holds at 76% containment as crews strengthen southwest perimeter
Crews used cables and other logging equipment to remove trees from steep, dangerous terrain and build a new fire line while aircraft dropped water and retardant to slow the fire.
Mixing and Maxxing: Shopping reviews on new TJ Maxx
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.
Grasshopper Fire Reaches 76% Containment as Crews Continue Mop-Up, Highway 35 Work
With containment at 76%, crews are making progress on the Grasshopper Fire, but hot, dry conditions, shifting winds and possible thunderstorms remain concerns.
Wrong-Way Driver on I-84 Arrested After Nearly Hitting Two Vehicles near Celilo Park
A third alleged wrong-way driver has been reported on Interstate 84 in the Columbia Gorge in recent months after Oregon State Police stopped a 33-year-old Pasco man with a 0.22% BAC near The Dalles.
Wasco and Sherman County Students Earn NewSun Energy Climate and Agriculture Scholarships
NewSun Energy awarded eight Wasco and Sherman county students scholarships for their work exploring agriculture, conservation, climate resilience and the future of rural communities.
Grasshopper Fire reaches 66% containment as evacuations ease, Pine Hollow reopens
In just six days, Grasshopper Fire containment has surged from 20% to 66%, while favorable weather, lifted evacuations and Pine Hollow Reservoir’s reopening signal firefighters are gaining control.
The Tool Belt Generation: Gen Z Finds a Future in Work That Takes Hands and a Mind
Young Gorge workers are choosing skilled trades where mechanical aptitude, problem-solving and physical dexterity remain valuable — and difficult for AI and automation to replace.
The Dalles Lions Club Presents $30,000 for Federal Street Plaza Splash Pad Project
Continuing a century-long tradition of investing in projects that strengthen community life, The Dalles Lions Club Charitable Trust recently presented a $30,000 contribution toward the Federal Street Plaza splash pad project.
Grasshopper Fire jumps to 61% containment as crews secure more of 92,408-acre blaze
Grasshopper Fire containment jumped from 49% to 61% Wednesday as crews secured more of the 92,408-acre blaze, with the southern perimeter now in patrol status and heat detections declining around homes.
Wasco County moves $15 million endowment plan forward; second hearing set for Sept. 2
Wasco County commissioners advanced a $15 million endowment plan, saying finances remain strong as Google data centers move onto tax rolls. Public comment continues through Sept. 2.
Finding the Sweet Spot: Backpack Candy Sales Fuel Dream of Bringing People Together Around Food, Music and Dancing
She never really stopped hustling. Now Liz Guzman is chasing a bigger dream — finding the sweet spot where Mexican and Anglo neighbors come together over great food, drinks, live music and a dance floor.
Grasshopper Fire reaches 49% containment as crews brace for Red Flag winds
Grasshopper Fire containment reached 49% Tuesday as crews reported major progress on the northeast flank, but winds gusting up to 30 mph could test eastern fire lines during Red Flag conditions.
Wind-driven grass fire burns near Google data center construction site in The Dalles
A wind-driven grass fire raced through dry vegetation near Google's newest data center construction site Tuesday, prompting a significant firefighting response east of The Dalles.
This Week at The Dalles Library: Aug. 18, 2026
The Dalles Public Library has a packed week Aug. 17-22, with yoga, crafts, outdoor skills, movies, summer reading fun and an author talk with Jane Kirkpatrick.
Gorge Giggin’ Guide - Aug. 18 - 24
This week The Gorge Giggin’ Guide is all about The Music, The Music, and More Music! All of Your Favorite Venues are on the Ball with Gigs catering to Everyone! Have Fun and Get Out There!
Google tax deals pour millions into Wasco County; commissioners eye $15 million endowment for windfall
Google tax deals are pouring millions into Wasco County. Now commissioners are considering locking away up to $15 million to build a permanent financial endowment.
Grasshopper Fire containment jumps to 47% as crews gain ground on the northeast flank
Containment on the 90,667-acre Grasshopper Fire jumped to 47% Monday as firefighters secured large portions of the northeastern perimeter, though warmer, drier and windier conditions could test lines Tuesday.
Portion of Union Street next to Lewis & Clark Park Closure starts on Monday Aug. 17
A portion of Union Street in downtown The Dalles will close to vehicle and pedestrian traffic for two weeks as construction continues on the First Street Streetscape Project.