Think about what freedoms you cherish and which ones we don't care about. Maybe, in the future, instead of lighting fireworks we'll get a bang out of dinner parties and street dances. Rather than the sounds of a war zone, we'll hear music. Let's start with 'Give Peace  A Chance.'

Aerial attacks are being made on the Larch Creek Fire burning near Friend. Plumes of smoke can currently be seen south of The Dalles from Dry Hollow Road.

Bargeway Pub gets misty with its outdoor cooling and crazy chill talent as they welcome Olivia Harms to Waterfront Wednesday. She’s equal parts Texas, Bakersfield, and Nashville country. This guide breaks the funmometer this week as gigs heat up around the Gorge.

As temperatures soared to a scorching 113 degrees, making it one of the hottest days of the year, residents flocked to the splash pit at Aquatics - Northern Wasco County Parks & Recreation to cool off.

Water treatment chemical purchase increases as city plans for increased water use as Google data centers are being constructed at a rapid pace.

Locals took the plunge on this trivia contest that asked where the old pool is located in The Dalles High School. And we have a winner and some epic history on TDHS. Pools usually cool things off, but this one is a real burner.

His Patriotic Jeep had judges seeing red, white and win! 

Many a student have gone looking for the abandoned pool. But where is it located in the current high school at 220 E. 10th Street in The Dalles? Send your answer to tom@cccnews.com by Sunday, July 7 at 6:43 p.m. Those providing correct answers will be entered into a raffle for a $25 gift certificate to Shannon’s Ice Cream.

Free cooling kits are available at all WAGAP offices in Stevenson, Bingen, and Goldendale. They are also available at Second Hand Rose WAGAP’s community thrift store in Bingen.

Heat is especially dangerous for those already experiencing health problems or for those who are houseless and experiencing severe exposure to this current heat wave which is anticipated to top 100 degrees for the next several days. Cooling shelters are available.

The Dalles Fourth of July Parade in pictures 2024

American Flags and running shoes had locals up and at ‘em this morning in The Dalles as we celebrate the birth of our country. The day is loaded with music, a parade, a corn hole tournament, and, of course, fireworks at 10 p.m. brought to us by the Fort Dalles Fourth volunteers.

On July 13, from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., they will exhibit their work at Yvonne’s Art Studio, 3735 Klindt Drive in The Dalles.  They will be working on location and invite others to join them in creating in their media of choice.

Ellen Woods Potter brings a background in both philanthropy and business in the Gorge as she takes over for Sally Johnson who was instrumental in leading the Art Center back into a strong financial position. Before her recent hiring at the Art Center, Potter was Co-owner and General Manager at Working Hands Fermentation in Hood River where she managed staff and coordinated events.

Hood River will host its annual 4th of July festivities, starting with a parade at 10 a.m., organized by the Hood River Lions Club. Fireworks will follow at 10 p.m. on the Hood River Waterfront.

Join The Dalles community on Thursday, July 4, for a full day of festivities celebrating Independence Day. Start your morning with the Rocket Run along the scenic Columbia River, followed by a free community breakfast and yoga session. Enjoy the charm of the Hometown USA Parade, a concert in City Park, and a lively block party. Cap off the evening with a spectacular fireworks display over the Columbia River. Don’t miss out on this day filled with fun, fitness, and patriotic pride!

Hand count expected later this month in race that is currently split by just 60 votes.

After months of dedicated work, Farm Stand, a community market and farm-to-table café, opened its doors today. The new establishment is committed to providing fresh, organic, and locally sourced food to the community.

Bargeway lights up Huckleberry Road this Fourth of July week; you might also audition for Steel Magnolias and become a famous actor, and Skyraker is in the Gorge as part of a triple rock bill at the Bingen Theater. It’s gonna be a Blast! Plus this week’s entertainment column has a new look!