Reducing dependence on public assistance is a primary goal of many of the Mid-Columbia Housing Authority programs. The agency supports low-income Gorge individuals and families in affording reliable, safe housing through federal and state funding, and rental assistance is supplemented by the Bridges to Health Pathways and Family Self-Sufficiency (FSS) teams, which help them become independent.

The City of The Dalles Public Works Department will work on a pavement preservation project on the W 6 th Street Bridge on Tuesday, April 14, 2026, weather permitting.

Columbia Gorge Community College invites community members of all ages and fitness levels to lace up their shoes for the Northwest Cherry Festival Fun Run, returning to The Dalles this spring. The family-friendly event is part of the annual Northwest Cherry Festival celebration.

The Dalles Public Library is offering a mix of ongoing and one-time programs in April, including puzzles, crafts, workshops, movies, gaming, and book discussions for children, teens, and adults. From a monthlong puzzle program to teen finance, family crafts, and author talks, The Dalles Public Library has a full slate of events in mid-April.

A regional wildfire preparedness workshop aimed at helping residents better protect their homes and property will be held April 30 in Maupin as part of a three-part Fire-Adapted Wasco workshop series.

A local actor is offering a behind-the-scenes look at one of The Dalles’ most recognizable Easter traditions, sharing what it takes to portray Jesus in the annual “Last Days of Jesus” play.

North Wasco County School District leaders highlighted rising graduation rates, expanding academic programs, and strong student growth during a recent CCCNews podcast, offering a snapshot of progress and ongoing challenges across local schools.

The Rowena Fire of 2025 destroyed over 100 buildings, including more than 50 homes, in and around The Dalles and Rowena. Impacted residents have been spearheading the long-term recovery, and the veteran-led volunteer disaster response organization Team Rubicon has joined the effort.

The Dalles Area Chamber of Commerce is excited to announce that presale carnival wristbands are now available for the 45th Northwest Cherry Festival, giving attendees the opportunity to save while planning for a full weekend of fun along the Columbia River.

In April, The Dalles crowns King Bing and Queen Ann. Most people understand the king. Bing still fills grocery shelves across America. Deep red. Firm. Sweet. Photogenic. But the queen deserves her celebration too.

The Beautification & Tree Committee proudly honors Marta and Wayne von Borstel with the April Beautification Award for their outstanding garden at 1603 Morton.

The City of The Dalles Public Works Department will be flushing fire hydrants throughout the city over the next few weeks, weather permitting.

The City of The Dalles Public Works Department will work on a pavement preservation project on the W 6 th Street Bridge on Tuesday, April 14, 2026, weather permitting.

The Dalles Public Library continues its “Wild Robot” programming alongside workshops, music, science talks and youth activities, offering a full week of hands-on learning, creativity and family-friendly events.

Wasco County commissioner candidate Mike Urness said expanding land availability, strengthening wildfire coordination and exercising caution with public spending will be critical as the county plans for long-term growth.

Urness, who is running for Position No. 3 in the May 19 primary election, shared his views during a recent CCCNews podcast interview, outlining priorities that include housing supply, rural fire response and infrastructure investment.

Wasco County commissioner candidate Lisa Gambee said the county must focus on transparency, infrastructure and long-term planning as it navigates growth driven by new revenue and development.

Gambee, who is running for Position No. 1 in the May 19 primary election, outlined her priorities during a recent CCCNews podcast interview, pointing to housing affordability, wildfire preparedness and responsible use of public funds.

On March 19, 2026, nearly 60 educators, industry leaders, and community partners gathered at Columbia Gorge Community College (CGCC) for the third Regional Career Technical Education (CTE) Advisory Committee meeting. The event marked continued momentum in aligning education and industry to expand meaningful career-connected learning opportunities for students across the Columbia Gorge.

Wasco County commissioner candidate Dick Schaffeld said the county must rethink how it spends public dollars, arguing for a more balanced approach that benefits the entire region rather than select projects or communities.

Schaffeld, who is running for Position No. 3 in the May 19 primary election, shared his views during a recent CCCNews podcast interview, where he addressed housing, wildfire preparedness, economic development and the county’s growing revenue from data centers.

Wasco County commissioner candidate John Grant said he would prioritize tax relief, business-friendly policies, and housing development as the county manages growth and new revenue tied to data center expansion.

The Dalles Public Library offers a full week of hands-on programs, performances and family events, including crafts, dance, storytime and a community-wide “Wild Robot” theme.