Lightning-Sparked Fire Complexes Continue to Grow Across Mid-Columbia; New Evacuation Orders Issued
Wildfires sparked by last week's lightning storm continue to burn across the Mid-Columbia, with new evacuation notices issued Sunday in Wasco and Gilliam counties as firefighters battle several large fire complexes.
The Dalles City Council to Consider Annexation, Q-Life Telecommunications Franchise
The Dalles City Council is scheduled to consider two special ordinances at its July 27 meeting, including the annexation of property within the city's urban growth boundary and the approval of a non-exclusive telecommunications franchise for Q-Life Intergovernmental Agency. The proposed ordinances will be available for public review in the council agenda packet beginning July 20, and members of the public may register to testify before the meeting.
What's Happening this Week at The Dalles Library, July 20, 2026
The Dalles Public Library has a full week of family-friendly activities, crafts, games and performances scheduled July 19–25, along with opportunities for children and teens to get involved through hands-on learning and creative programs.
Reminder: Fog Seal Work to Bring Temporary Street Closures Across The Dalles Beginning July 20
The City of The Dalles will apply fog seal to streets treated with chip seal last month, requiring temporary daytime closures on dozens of streets July 20-22.
The Dalles Beautification & Tree Committee Announces July 2026 Beautification Award Winner
The City of The Dalles Beautification & Tree Committee is pleased to recognize Judy and Ray Smitke as recipients of the July Beautification Award for their outstanding garden at 2311 Radio Way.
Early Morning Fire Along Highway 197 Under Investigation
An early morning vegetation fire along Highway 197 is under investigation after reports that individuals were shooting fireworks into dry grass, according to Mid-Columbia Fire & Rescue.
Regional Wildfires Continue to Threaten Communities Across Mid-Columbia
Multiple wildfires continued burning across Gilliam, Sherman and Wasco counties Friday morning, prompting evacuations, destroying homes and drawing firefighting resources from across the Mid-Columbia
Hood River Man Accused of Ramming Vehicles on I-84, Arrested for DUII
An allegedly impaired Hood River man was arrested Thursday after Oregon State Police say he rammed multiple vehicles while driving eastbound on Interstate 84 from Mosier before being stopped in The Dalles.
Wasco County Appoints Rodger Nichols to Board of Commissioners
The Wasco County Board of Commissioners appointed Rodger Nichols to fill the seat vacated by Phil Brady, citing his experience, public service and commitment to serve.
Antlions: Good Garden Guys in Disguise
Once upon a time I would’ve freaked when I saw this creepy-looking winged creature in my backyard. It looked like an elongated ant, with wings. I thought it was flying ant or a termite and was sorting out how to kill it before my wood siding became its next meal. Fortunately, I didn’t. They’re one of the good guys.
The Dalles Lions Club Celebrates 100 Years of Service with Community Picnic and Family Fun Day
The Dalles Lions Club celebrated its Centennial Anniversary by hosting a free community hot dog lunch and family fun day at the Sorosis Park Lions Picnic Shelter. Despite windy conditions, more than 200 community members gathered on a beautiful summer day to celebrate 100 years of Lions service in The Dalles.
Gorge Giggin’ Guide - July 14-20
Summer is Here and the Time is Right for Another Gorge Giggin’ Guide! An Allman Brothers Tribute? We’ve Got That! A Host of Touring Bands and Musicians! Yup, Right Here! Need your Favorite Local Shows? You’re in the Right Place! The Gorge Giggin’ Guide is the Place to Be! Check out The Guide and Get Out There!
Reminder – E 3 rd St. Water Service Replacement
On Monday July 13, 2026, the City of The Dalles Public Works will begin work on the 700 block of E 3rd St to replace a water service line.
Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services Finalizes Adventist Health Columbia Gorge’s Critical Access Hospital status
The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services has finalized Adventist Health Columbia Gorge’s change to be a Critical Access Hospital.
This Week at The Dalles Library: July 12, 2026
The Dalles Public Library has scheduled a full week of programs July 13-18, including Medicare education, family entertainment, author talks, crafts, dance, yoga and LibraryCon.
Columbia Gorge CASA Renews Commitment to Wasco County Amid Growing Need for Child Advocates
As the number of children entering foster care continues to rise in Wasco County, Columbia Gorge CASA is expanding its local presence through a new satellite office in The Dalles and the addition of seven newly trained volunteer advocates.
Fog Seal Work to Bring Temporary Street Closures Across The Dalles Beginning July 20
The City of The Dalles will apply fog seal to streets treated with chip seal last month, requiring temporary daytime closures on dozens of streets July 20-22.
Applications Open for the 2026 Tree Grant Program
The City of The Dalles Beautification and Tree Committee is pleased to announce the fourth year of its Residential Tree Grant Program. Applications are now open and will be accepted through August 1, 2026.
Community College Launches Early Childhood Education and Additive Manufacturing Programs
Columbia Gorge Community College is expanding opportunities for local residents with two new academic programs designed to meet urgent workforce needs in the Columbia Gorge: an Initial Early Childhood Education certificate, offered in both English and Spanish, and an Additive Manufacturing Processes certificate in the college’s Advanced Manufacturing and Fabrication program.
Alleged drunken driver arraigned and released after head-on crash on Interstate 84 near The Dalles
A 22-year-old The Dalles man accused of driving the wrong way on Interstate 84 while nearly twice the legal alcohol limit has been indicted by a Wasco County grand jury after a head-on crash that seriously injured three people. He was released from jail on Tuesday.
