Whenever we consider a change in our lives, even a positive one, we encounter the paradox of transformation. On one hand, we are on familiar ground. It may not be the best, but it’s what we’re used to. When we think of making a change, we run the risk of losing our stable ground. We tend to settle for what is familiar. Why rock the boat?

There was a live nativity scene in Sorosis Park this weekend, with lively music and even hot chili being served. This year marks their 46th year hosting this fundraiser, but it will be the 3rd year using live actors. This production was hosted by The Last Days of Jesus Inc., there were also many Churches that helped with the event.

January brings the peak season for bald eagle migration in the Columbia Gorge. This January there will be two events celebrating the bald eagle migration: Wings Over the Columbia Gorge, a free webinar featuring eagle experts on January 4th followed by the 14th annual Eagle Watch at The Dalles Dam on January 20th, featuring live raptor demonstrations, eagle watching, and educational activities.

The Hood River Christmas Project will kicked off a week of volunteering and giving back today. Volunteers filled the community room at Hood River Fairgrounds from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. today, December 11, 2023 to participate in the program which is celebrating its 100th year of giving back to Hood River County.

This past weekend, Dufur transformed into a winter wonderland as the Frontloading Hometown Christmas swept through the town, leaving behind a trail of magic and festive joy. From the Dufur Market to the Balch Hotel, the entire community came alive with a myriad of Christmas-themed events, making it an unforgettable experience for locals and visitors alike.

The Friends of White Salmon Library hosted a holiday quilt reception and open house at White Salmon Library from 2 to 4 p.m. on Saturday Dec. 9. 

Underriner Ford and Nissan of The Dalles was filled with tears and laughter on Wednesday as the Mott family gratefully received the gift of free gently used Ford Edge, with a trunk full of Christmas presents, including a $250 gas card.

The Col. Wright Troubadours, a dynamic group of twelve spirited 4th graders from Colonel Wright Elementary School, took The Dalles Library by storm today, filling the air with the joyous melodies of Christmas. This stop marks just one of their captivating 16 performances on a festive tour that spans the heart of The Dalles.

Mid-Columbia Fire and Rescue held their 36th Annual Everyone Loves a Firefighter drive-through food drive otherwise known as Project ELFF on Tuesday, Dec. 5 between 5 p.m. and 9 p.m.

Two of Santa’s reindeer in training, Cookie and Elf made an appearance at Coastal Farm and Ranch last night to the delight of families who came to see the reindeer and enjoy some free cookies and hot chocolate.

On December 7th at 11:00 a.m. PST, one local family from the Columbia Gorge will receive the gift of transportation thanks to The United Way of the Columbia Gorge’s partner Underriner Ford and Nissan of The Dalles.

Students from Hood River, The Dalles, and WyEast middle schools secured spots to the state championship at the Stuff the Turkey VEX IQ Robotics Tournament in The Dalles the weekend of November 18. These teams will qualify for the chance to showcase their skills at the Oregon State VEX IQ Robotics Championship in Sandy, Oregon, on Saturday, February 24th.

In this special episode, we join Josh and Tom, on guitar, as we read to you "Twas the Night Before Christmas," jumpstarting your holiday spirit. We at CCCNews hope you have a wonderful Christmas.

On Thanksgiving Day (Nov. 23, 2023) Oregon State Police troopers responded to the Love’s Truck Stop in Klamath Falls for the report of a suspicious vehicle in the parking lot. A U-Haul truck had been abandoned in the parking lot for approximately two days. When the troopers arrived, they could hear barking from the back of the enclosed truck. 

Santa is at the top of the list for Family Holiday Night on Saturday, December 16, 2023, from 6:00 - 8:00 p.m. at the Goldendale Grange Hall. The free event is open to all and will include ornament and cookie decorating and making a marshmallow snowman.

The Dalles Worship Choir is in its 19th season of Christmas concerts.  Founded and under the direction of Shawn Lutz (local private music instructor) in 2004.  This ecumenical choir has approximately 44 members this season from six different churches.

The Dalles Chamber, in collaboration with Columbia Gorge Small Business Development Center (SBDC) and Blossomly Cultura, is thrilled to announce a special listening session titled "Turning Dreams into Goals," specifically aimed at supporting Latino-based businesses, both new and established. This event is scheduled for December 6th, 2023, at 6 PM, taking place at the Gorge Wine Library.

The Starlight Parade illuminated the streets of our charming town last night, ushering in the holiday spirit with a dazzling display of Christmas floats. The community came together to celebrate the festive season, and the parade was a radiant testament to the creativity and enthusiasm of local participants.

Capt Mo Donahue Revier stepped down after leading the squadron since June 2020, and 1st Lt Katie Walker took command of the Gorge Composite.  On Oct 3, C/Lt Col Isaac Walker, after over two years of leadership, passed command of the cadets to C/2nd Lt Zachary Luhan.

Abstract artists wrought from the isolation and uncertainty of the early days of the COVID pandemic continue their path of creativity and are sharing their works with the public at the Hood River Library this month at 502 State Street.