Columbia Community Connection was established in 2020 as a local, honest and digital news source providing meaningful stories and articles. CCC News’ primary goal is to inform and elevate all the residents and businesses of the Mid-Columbia Region. A rising tide lifts all boats, hop in!
Do you have a little time to spare each week to help spark the joy of reading for kids in The Dalles? Children's literacy nonprofit SMART Reading has a high need for volunteer Readers and volunteer Site Coordinators at Chenowith, Colonel Wright, and Dry Hollow Elementary Schools.
Crews took advantage of a break in fire activity brought on by cool, wet weather to continue work on contingency lines across the area south of the fire. Fire activity is expected to increase in the next few days as hot and dry conditions return to the area. Forest visitors are reminded to stay out of closure areas to allow crews to safely prepare protective barriers to the surrounding forest and local communities.
For nearly 25 years, Jan Pearo has been on a journey to support her community, making her the longest-running employee at Washington Gorge Action Programs (WAGAP). In January 2000, Pearo began helping people in Skamania and Klickitat counties. She had recently moved to Stevenson, Washington, from Portland, Oregon.
Kiwanis Programs August 2024
Yesterday, all crews ended their shifts and were demobilized. Some resources went home to rest while many were reassigned to different fires. All roads are open and there are no evacuation warnings. The fire is 100% contained as of Tuesday, July 30, 2024, at 6:00 PM and turned back over to the local jurisdictions.
Today, efforts to manage the fire will transition back to local agencies. Line crews and equipment will start being released. Many resources will be reassigned to support other fires in the area, while others will return to their home units.
The Microwave Tower Fire, burning 5 miles west of Mosier, has grown to 1,306 acres with 53% containment. The fire, which started on July 22, 2024, is believed to be human-caused and is still under investigation. The fire is burning in brush, timber, and grass.
The Central Cascades Interagency Management Team assumed command of the Whisky Creek Fire on Monday, July 29, 2024. Precipitation occurred over the fire area yesterday, moderating fire behavior. Cloud cover will diminish today over the fire as onshore flow continues, and warmer temperatures begin to develop over the region.
Project to create a welcoming environment at The Annex, while joining in the rich mural tradition in downtown The Dalles. MCCAC looks to families and emerging artists to inspire people to collectively reimagine spaces that serve as the heart of their community.
Mid-Columbia Economic Development District (MCEDD) is seeking interested candidates for openings on the MCEDD Board of Directors, particularly those involved with Agriculture, or the Food and Beverage Industry.
A passion for helping others, and seeing the life-changing work done in both the public health and non-profit sectors guided the career path of recently retired North Central Public Health District Director Shellie Campbell.
Rivermark and Advantis credit unions have been cleared for a merger expected in late 2024 or early 2025. The combined organization will have nearly 180,000 members and manage $3.3 billion in assets, making it the third-largest credit union in Oregon with 19 branches, mostly in the Portland metro area.
Serrato of Serrato Construction said he was taking care of the cleanup as much of the old restaurant was dismantled and placed in the east parking lot during the recent remodel. Pho Sai Gon, a Vietnamese restaurant is set to open at the location shortly.
The Microwave Tower Fire expanded into another 400 acres as it burned during the weekend, burning down cliffs to Interstate 84 on Sunday.
The Whiskey Creek Fire expanded minimally over the weekend but no containment has been reported as forestry mulchers have been brought in to chip up fuel sources as firefighters continue to build lines around the blaze.
“Yesterday, crews concluded their last evening of night shift patrol. Crews monitored the fire lines watching for anything smoking or smoldering. Pine Creek had some smoke, but it was well interior of the fire with the fire edge still holding strong,” reported Hannah Cleverly with the SE Washington Inter-Agency Team.
Incumbents Dan Richardson and Rod Runyon are running unopposed - so far - in their bid to be elected to another term on The Dalles City Council. And no one has yet to file for Long’s open seat. Those wanting to run for city office have until Aug. 27 at 5 p.m. to file their candidacy.
When the temperature dropped from 105 to 85 degrees the other day, I did a little gardening. I got tired and really sweaty. It's too hot to do anything outside. We should be resting, not working. My best models of how to rest are cats. They lounge around, confident we are working to provide their shelter and food. They don't even read a book or watch Netflix
Discovery Center partners with Forest Service on a birthday bash for Smokey the Bear who turns 80 on Aug. 9. We'll have fun activities, storytime with Forest Service rangers, fire engines spraying hoses, scavenger hunts, a bear education station, and even a chance to hug Smokey, and more. Enjoy cool, refreshing slices of watermelon throughout the party, and don't miss the cake-cutting at noon, with cake for everyone to enjoy! All are welcome, and admission is completely free!
FarmStand held its ribbon-cutting event yesterday, marking the official opening of its location in The Dalles. The event featured several vendors inside the store, offering a variety of complimentary items such as wine, cheeses, bread, and cookies.
