By Tom Peterson

The Dalles, Ore., Feb. 22, 2026 — The Dalles City Council on Monday will consider adopting a long-range employment land strategy as city planners report a shortage of large industrial sites needed to support future employers.

The City’s updated analysis projects The Dalles could add approximately 2,800 jobs over the next 20 years and estimates between about 46 and 147 acres of employment land will be needed to accommodate that growth. While the City has about 205 acres of buildable employment land remaining within its Urban Growth Boundary, officials say most of the larger parcels needed for major industrial or technology employers have already been developed.

Much of that development has occurred over the past two decades at the Port of The Dalles. According to Wasco County property records, Google and its affiliated entity Design LLC own approximately 175 acres of industrial land at the Port, where the company has constructed multiple data center facilities. Those projects were approved by local governments beginning in the early 2000s, when officials sought to attract new economic investment following the closure of the region’s aluminum smelter.

As a result, city planners report that while smaller industrial parcels remain available, no sites currently exist in the 30- to 60-acre or 60- to 100-acre range typically required for large industrial developments.

The aluminum smelter that previously operated at the Port of The Dalles employed approximately 500 workers at its peak, according to local historical records. Today, Google’s data center operations employ roughly 200 people locally. City planners note that modern data centers require significantly fewer employees than traditional manufacturing, even as they occupy large industrial sites.

CCCNews covered this point during negotations for two new data centers in the Port of The Dalles back in October 2021 in this story.

From that story:

Economist David Swensen differs in opinion when it comes to the overall benefit to a community for offering huge property tax breaks for companies building data centers. 

He watched it and studied it in West Des Moines, Iowa.

He said of the proposed $1.2 billion Google is willing to spend, a small fraction would go to benefit the community.

He said they should not be given tax breaks unless they produce a lot of high-paying jobs.

Swensen is an award-winning community economics research specialist at Iowa State University and has a Masters’ Degree in Urban and Regional planning. He’s studied data plants in The Dalles.

“These companies come in with a huge number for investment, but it is a red herring,” he said. “The amount of increase it produces in the economy is not in relation to the geographic footprint they create. The leverage they exert over the community is disproportionate to the contribution they commit.”

The City’s industrial land supply is further limited by geographic and regulatory constraints. The Dalles’ Urban Growth Boundary, established under Oregon land-use law and influenced by protections under the Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area Act, restricts outward expansion and makes industrial land a finite resource.

City officials say adopting the updated employment land analysis will incorporate current land supply, employment projections and development patterns into the City’s Comprehensive Plan. The analysis, required by the state, does not approve new development or change zoning but provides the planning framework used to guide future economic development and land-use decisions.

Strategic plan

Councilors will also consider adopting the City’s first formal three-year Strategic Plan, covering 2026 through 2028.

The plan identifies five primary focus areas: economic development, housing, historic preservation, tourism and downtown vitality, and transportation improvements. City officials say the shift from annual goal setting to a multi-year strategic plan is intended to provide greater continuity in decision-making and align long-term priorities across city departments.

The plan was developed through strategic workshops involving City Council and staff, along with employee surveys and consultant facilitation. While adoption does not authorize immediate spending, it will guide future budget decisions, infrastructure investments and policy priorities.

Next Door Inc. grant

In a separate agenda item, councilors will review a proposal to provide up to $19,000 in grant funding to The Next Door Inc. to support counseling services for children and families experiencing impacts related to federal immigration enforcement activity.

The funding would come from existing City Manager budget authority and is intended to provide services for families who do not qualify for Oregon Health Plan coverage.

City staff have also taken additional steps following the council’s January resolution addressing community concerns, including publishing informational materials, translating city forms into Spanish and coordinating with local service providers.

Sewer repairs, airport contract

Council members are also expected to approve a $412,995 contract with Vortex Services LLC to rehabilitate sections of the city’s sanitary sewer system using trenchless cured-in-place pipe lining technology. The project was budgeted at $600,000, with the selected bid coming in $187,005 under budget.

Councilors will also consider extending the City’s airport management agreement for up to one year at a cost of $153,900, allowing continued airport operations while officials evaluate longer-term management options.

Mayor Richard Mays has also recommended reappointing Donna Lawrence and Forust Ercole to the Urban Renewal Budget Committee.

Executive session

Following the public meeting, councilors will enter executive session to conduct labor negotiations discussions as permitted under Oregon law.

The Dalles City Council will meet Monday, Feb. 23, at 5:30 p.m. at City Hall, 313 Court St.

Click here to read the agenda and background information.

Agenda references: Employment Opportunities Analysis (Ord. 26-1425); Strategic Plan adoption; Resolution 26-002 grant update; Contract No. 2025-016 sewer lining project.

The Dalles, Ore., Feb. 22, 2026 — From LEGO pizza night to Bluey visits and book clubs, The Dalles Public Library offers free February events for all ages, including crafts, classes and games.

Monday, Feb. 23

Maker Monday: DIY Book Light, teens at 3:30 p.m., adults at 5:30 p.m. The Dalles Public Library makerspace. Free. Teens and adults will create a DIY book lamp using paper crafting and conductive tape to build a working light.

Tuesday, Feb. 24

Wellness To-Go Kits for Teens, 4 p.m. The Dalles Public Library. Free. Teens can pick up a kit filled with tools and tips to support mental and physical health. Available while supplies last.

Sci-Fi Book Club: “Recursion” by Blake Crouch, 5–6 p.m. The Dalles Public Library meeting room. Free. Open to adults. Join fellow science fiction readers for discussion. Books are available at the front desk, and light refreshments will be provided.

Wednesday, Feb. 25

Wiggles & Giggles — Special Visit with Bluey and Bingo, 10:30 a.m. The Dalles Public Library. Free. Open to children. Enjoy Bluey-themed games, snacks and photo opportunities.

Mah Jongg Class, 3 p.m. and 5:30 p.m. The Dalles Public Library. Free. Open to teens and adults. Registration required. Corliss Marsh will teach the basics of Mah Jongg in celebration of the Chinese New Year.

Minecraft Club, 3–5 p.m. The Dalles Public Library. Free. Open to tweens and teens. Registration required. Participants will play Minecraft together on the library’s devices and complete challenges.

Thursday, Feb. 26

Family LEGO Pizza Night, 5:30 p.m. The Dalles Public Library. Free. Open to all ages. Enjoy pizza while building creative LEGO projects in a relaxed, family-friendly environment.

Friday, Feb. 27

Fun Fridays, 3:30 p.m. The Dalles Public Library. Free. Open to teens. Weekly activities include crafts, games, trivia and snacks.

Shakespeare Class: Much Ado About … What, Exactly?, 4–6 p.m. The Dalles Public Library. Free. Open to teens and adults. Registration required. This ongoing class explores Shakespearean language, performance and “Much Ado About Nothing.”

The Tea Nook, 5–5:45 p.m. The Dalles Public Library. Free. Open to adults. Explore teas from around the world, learn tea facts and enjoy refreshments in a social setting.

Saturday, Feb. 28

Dr. Seuss Birthday Party, 1–3 p.m. The Dalles Public Library. Free. Open to all ages. Celebrate Dr. Seuss with themed activities, snacks and costumes.

By Tom Peterson

The Dalles, Ore., Feb. 21, 2026 — A baby grand piano built in 1915 and carried through generations of one Oregon family has found a new home inside Old St. Peter’s Landmark in The Dalles, where its music will once again be heard starting on St. Patrick’s Day.

The five-foot-four-inch Lehr baby grand was delivered Jan. 8 to Old St. Peter’s Landmark Preservation, the nonprofit that maintains the historic church and oversees its use for concerts, weddings and community celebrations. The donation connects more than a century of personal and musical history with one of The Dalles’ most recognizable landmarks.

For Lynne Allen, a docent at the landmark and retired oncology nurse practitioner, the decision to gift the piano was rooted in both memory and purpose.

“A musical instrument needs to be played,” Lynne said. “The music from it needs to be shared.”

The piano had been part of Lynne’s family since the early 1900s. It was originally played by her aunt, Ava Steiger, a Baker City musician who studied classical piano and traveled to New York in pursuit of becoming a concert pianist.

“She played beautifully,” Lynne said. “When I was in junior high … one of the sisters at St. Francis school in Baker said, ‘Oh, are you related to Ava Steiger?’ … ‘She played so wonderfully.’”

Over the decades, the piano moved with the family, eventually making its way from Baker City to the Tri-Cities and then to Lynne’s home in The Dalles when she relocated in 2014 to work at Mid-Columbia Medical Center.

In recent years, however, it had fallen silent.

“I felt very sad that no one’s been playing it for a long time,” Lynne said.

When Lynne began volunteering at Old St. Peter’s Landmark, the idea of donating the piano slowly took shape.

“I love St. Peter’s,” she said. “I thought, ‘Wait, I have this baby grand piano.’ It could get played down there and people will enjoy it.”

Linda Miller, president of the Old St. Peter’s Landmark Preservation Board, immediately recognized the instrument’s value. Linda herself took piano lessons as a child on a baby grand inside St. Mary’s Academy in The Dalles in the late 1950s.

“Well, I didn’t want to get rid of it,” Lynne said. “I just wanted it to have a better home.”

Moving the piano into the historic structure required careful coordination.

Alan Eagy, treasurer of the Old St. Peter’s Landmark Preservation Board, said Lester Moving Company handled the delicate task of maneuvering the baby grand piano up a long ramp, through the entrance, and into the main seating area of the historic church. After placing the donated piano upstairs, the crew then removed an older piano from the main floor and carefully carried it down two flights of stairs into the basement.

Alan said watching the movers handle both instruments in the tight, historic space required skill and precision.

“Everybody said you got to get Lester’s,” Alan said. “They did such a wonderful job.”

“It was a great addition,” Alan added. “The next step, we’re going to get it tuned.”

Once restored, the piano is expected to serve both performers and visitors. Old St. Peter’s Landmark hosts concerts throughout the year and already has nine weddings scheduled in 2026 — five more than last year. Volunteers say the instrument will provide a warm and welcoming presence for ceremonies and community events.

“It might be some nice light warm-up music as people are entering,” Alan said.

The piano will make its public debut during the upcoming “St. Pat’s at St. Pete’s” concert featuring the Cascade Singers, part of a long-standing tradition at the landmark.

For Lynne, the donation ensures the instrument will continue doing what it was meant to do — bring people together.

“Music is universal,” she said. “Music is connecting. I think we need everything we can have to connect to one another.”

By Tom Peterson

The Dalles, Ore., Feb. 20, 2026 — Wasco County Circuit Court Judge Janet Stauffer sentenced a Portland man convicted at trial of the home-invasion robbery, beating and kidnap of Donald “Donny” Lewis in 2021 to nearly two decades in prison.

Jason McCollum, 50, stood as Stauffer handed down 19 years and 7 months after District Attorney Kara Davis argued the man “had a lack of remorse” and deserved a longer sentence, requesting consecutive sentences for first-degree assault and first-degree kidnapping.

Davis played phone and video calls taken from NORCOR jail this week where McCollum spoke with friends. In the phone calls, McCollum could be heard in a nostalgic conversation about a past crime where one man was killed and another was hit in the head with the claw side of a hammer.

As the call was played, McCollum clenched his right hand, held it with his left and rested his chin on them, his eyes slowly blinking.

The video phone call between McCollum captured him stating that he frequented a Chinese restaurant and bar in downtown The Dalles while on release during his recent trial, spending hundreds of dollars on drinks and gambling with family.

Davis argued that McCollum felt no remorse while his victim, who was bound with zip ties during his beating, still struggles daily from the beating he took during the robbery. McCollum also showed disregard for the law by entering a bar when he was prohibited from doing so in his post-prison supervision from other crimes.

She also pointed out that home invasion robberies are rare, and the Portland men who perpetrated the crime targeted Lewis specifically due to him being elderly.

“This was an extremely horrific crime in our community,” she said, then requested a 230 month sentence.

His defense attorney, Per Olsen, said the calls were a display of old friends who came from a life of drug addiction and crime but were also on their way to recovery and were being supportive of each other as they worked to better their lives.

Olsen pointed out that McCollum had graduated drug treatment in 2016, he had recently been moved to a halfway house, found a job, got his driver’s license and intended to get his commercial driver’s license.

“He’s caught between two worlds,” Olsen said. He asked the judge to give McCollum consecutive sentences and access to drug treatment, education and work programs, which would have kept his prison time to a decade.

Last month Olsen said that he planned to appeal the case as McCollum maintained his innocence at trial, even though his associate Christopher Allan Jaha fingered him at trial.

Stauffer, as was evidenced by her later comments, did not buy it.

Lewis, who still suffers from loose teeth and a floating bone that blurs his vision due to the beating to his face the night of the robbery, chose not to give a victim impact statement.

But his friend David Wilson, an imposing taller man with a long beard, did.

“I saw Donny right after the incident. We didn’t know if he was going to live.”

Wilson said he had known Lewis 35 years and met with him regularly at Mama Jane’s in The Dalles.

“I’ve seen him change. It’s hard for him to express himself. It’s impacted all of his friends.”

Wilson then pointed at McCollum with a finger and said:

“Everyone in this town would like to have 5 minutes with him. Anybody that would kick an old man in the head is a sick son of a… I would like to take care of him.”

Judge Stauffer in her sentencing told McCollum that he had left Lewis “for dead.” She then said she had decided to run consecutive sentences, stating that they had committed a second separate crime when they left Lewis in his home alone, bleeding and bound, with no one aware of his condition.

“It could have been days before he was discovered,” she said, later adding that McCollum was aware of Lewis’s age, an aggravating factor that opened the door to additional time behind bars.

“I did read the letters from family and the report on sobriety,” she said. “But I doubt that after reviewing the video and jail calls.”

She then had McCollum stand in front of the 22 people in the courtroom and gave the scruffy man dressed in orange NORCOR scrubs 235 months in prison with no chance of early release and or access to programs.

She also ordered him to pay restitution of $150, 436 — $150,000 in money stolen from Lewis and $436 for medical bills and repayment to the victim’s compensation fund.

Stauffer left the courtroom and Wasco County Sheriff’s deputies moved near the jury box where McCollum laid his hands on the rail, surrendering.

Manacles were secured to his ankles and wrists as Lewis and his supporters, McCollum’s family, and The Dalles Police Chief Tom Worthy watched in silence while deputies led him from the courtroom to jail.

Read CCNews’ story on opening statements here.

Read CCCNew’s story about trial days two and three here.

Read CCCNew’s finding of guilty here.

By Joshuah Albert

The Dalles, Ore. Feb. 20, 2026 — The Wasco County Wolf Depredation Compensation Committee will meet Monday evening to review livestock losses, consider funding applications, and continue its work supporting local ranchers affected by wolf activity.

The committee is scheduled to meet at 7 p.m. Monday, Feb. 23, in the Kramer Conference Room at 401 E. Third St., with virtual participation also available. Agenda items include reviewing reported wolf depredation from December 2025, approving business members, and discussing funding requests and future meeting dates.

The committee oversees Wasco County’s participation in Oregon’s Wolf Depredation Compensation and Financial Assistance County Block Grant Program, a statewide effort created in 2011 to address financial losses suffered by livestock producers due to wolf attacks. The program was established by House Bill 3560 and is administered through the Oregon Department of Agriculture.

At the local level, the Wasco County committee reviews compensation claims from ranchers who lose livestock to confirmed or probable wolf depredation. The committee helps distribute state and federal grant funds to reimburse producers for losses and to support prevention efforts designed to reduce future attacks.

Those prevention measures can include installing protective fencing, funding range riders to monitor livestock, removing carcasses that attract wolves and deploying deterrent devices such as flashing lights and alarm systems. State guidelines require counties to spend at least 30% of program funds on prevention strategies to reduce conflicts before they occur.

The committee itself is made up of a diverse group of stakeholders, including a county commissioner, livestock producers, business representatives and individuals representing wolf conservation interests. This structure is intended to balance economic concerns with wildlife management goals while ensuring decisions reflect local conditions.

Compensation is provided after incidents are investigated and confirmed or classified as probable wolf depredation by the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife. Counties establish compensation rates based on fair market value.

Wasco County is one of 18 counties participating in the program, reflecting the continued presence of wolves across Eastern Oregon and the need for local oversight and support.

By reviewing claims, distributing funds and promoting prevention, the Wasco County Wolf Depredation Compensation Committee serves as a critical link between ranchers, wildlife officials and the broader community.

By Nancy Turner with edits by Tom Peterson

The Dalles, Ore., Feb. 20, 2026 — Two free adult education courses exploring literature and art will begin in March at the Mid-Columbia Senior Center, offering local residents opportunities to expand their cultural knowledge and creative thinking.

“Exploring the Short Story: Irish and American Literature” and “Random Art” are part of an ongoing series of classes led by instructor Kerry Cobb, an arts and education enthusiast who specializes in literature, art history and cultural studies. The classes are open to the public, and all materials are provided at no cost.

The literature course meets at 10 a.m. on the second Friday of each month in the Deschutes Room and compares short stories from Ireland and the United States under shared themes. Participants read two stories each month — one from each country — and discuss how culture, landscape and history influence storytelling.

The “Random Art” series meets monthly and explores a wide range of artistic genres, movements and artists, helping participants expand their understanding of visual culture and creativity. Both classes are free and open to learners of all experience levels.

The “Random Art” class meets at 10 a.m. on the second Tuesday of each month. The first six sessions include “Rothko & Hockney” on March 10, “The Spectacular Art of Caravaggio” on April 14, “What Makes a Masterpiece?” on May 12, “Spanish Painters You Should Know” on June 9, “The Art of Painting Women” on July 14, and “Early American Artists” on Aug. 11.

All classes are held at the Mid-Columbia Senior Center. Interested participants can sign up at the front desk.

Enriching the Lives of Elders

A testimonial by Nancy Turner

During the past year I traveled all over Ireland without leaving The Dalles. No hiking over dramatic Irish landscapes, no touring historic sites, or listening to music in pubs. Not that I wouldn’t mind doing so, but I saved myself the expense and challenges of travel simply by attending a class at the Mid-Columbia Senior Center. What I’m telling you here isn’t a travel log. It’s a testimonial. 

In 2024 Kerry Cobb offered a free, year long course on Irish short stories. My attention span could handle short stories. Kerry provided copies of stories printed on real paper, not just a Hyperlink to a URL. The class met once a month for an hour, Friday mornings. I assumed my fellow classmates were retired. Everything was copasetic. 

Kerry provided clear, in-depth guidance to understand and enjoy stories written by such famous writers as Jennifer C. Cornell, Michael McLavery and Sean O’Faoláin, and many more. She knows her stuff. Her love of Ireland and literature is contangeous. 

Irish and American short stories often overlap in craft, but they tend to feel different because they grow out of different histories, different landscapes and ideas about the self. Irish stories have an intimate and unavoidable relationship with a village, a town, pub or farm. The landscape carries emotional and historical weight. Characters are pressured by family expectations, church, class, and local reputation. The stories often rely on understatement, irony and silence. 

This is in contrast to American stories in which the setting can be vast, mobile or symbolic, such as highways, suburbs, frontiers, cites. American characters often have the option – real or imagined – of leaving. There’s an emphasis on space, movement, or reinvention. 

Without leaving my sugawn, (an Irish chair made from wood with a straw rope seat), I learned about Irish history, it’s unique cultural norms, and gained insight into the heartfelt experiences of Irish individuals. 

Kerry Cobb is an arts and education enthusiast active in the adult education programs at the Mid-Columbia Senior Center. She offers engaging classes on literature, art history, and cultures. Her classes are especially geared for older learners. 

From The Wasco County Master Gardener:

By Chrissy Zaugg

Maupin, Ore., Feb. 20, 2026 — The Wasco County Master Gardeners, in collaboration with the Maupin Chamber of Commerce and the Maupin Dig & Hoe Garden Club, are thrilled to announce the return of the 4th Annual Garden Expo. Community members, gardening enthusiasts, and curious newcomers are invited to join the event in Maupin on Saturday, March 14th.

Event Highlights:

• Free Seed Giveaway: Attendees can select from hundreds of varieties of free seeds, a perennial highlight of the expo.

• Ask-a-Master-Gardener: Master Gardeners will be spread throughout the venue, ready to provide personalized advice on your toughest gardening questions, samples, and challenges.

• Local Vendors: Local vendors will be present, offering a selection of plants and seeds. Additionally, the Master Gardeners will have houseplants available by donation.

• Free Swag Bags: The first 100 attendees will receive a swag bag filled with gardening goodies.

• Networking Opportunities: Connect with fellow gardeners and learn more about the Wasco County Master Gardener program, as well as local gardening clubs and initiatives.

Event Details

Date: Saturday, March 14th
Location: Maupin Civic Center, 507 Grant Ave, Maupin, OR 97037
Time: 11:00 AM to 2:00 PM
Admission: Free!

This annual expo serves as a vibrant hub for horticultural knowledge, sustainable gardening practices, and community connection, offering a wealth of resources for both seasoned and novice gardeners in the Columbia Gorge region.

By Tom Peterson

The Dalles, Ore., Feb. 19, 2026 — Mother Nature is blessing the current contract season as projects in The Dalles are starting blossom with the advent of sunny skies and signed contracts.

Work on two portions of First Street with major utility upgrades a full street renovation between Union and Laughlin streets are underway.

And contractors are also digging in at Lewis & Clark Festival Park with a sculpture fountain upgrade that aims to plug the fountain that has been plagued by vandalism in past years. The liner of the fountain has been cut in years past which causes the pool to leak down.

J.J. Castro Construction were using pick axes and jack hammers as they reset the drainage and filtration system at the fountain this afternoon as the ready the site for a lined full concrete pool that will once again host the Lewis, Clark and Sacagawea pushing a dugout upstream - a sculpture created by local artist Jeff Stewart.

Castro said he expected the work would take about a month, noting the nice weather was helping to move the project along.

Further upriver on First Street Ajax Northwest Construction has brought in equipment and an office on Federal and First street as they prepare to start the streetscape project.

It will begin with some archeological exploration in days to come with some digging of test plots as some of the areas containing historic rock walls have a higher probability of holding significant artifacts.

The Dalles City Council in November awarded a $4.07 million contract to Ajax for the long-planned First Street Streetscape project, a major reconstruction effort aimed at stabilizing deteriorating infrastructure and revitalizing the historic downtown corridor.

Blue Skies may be Deceiving

The Dalles will see increasing cloud cover Friday with a high near 43 degrees and calm winds, before a chance of snow develops late Friday night as temperatures drop to around 31 degrees, according to the National Weather Service. Light snow accumulation of less than a half inch is possible by early Saturday morning. Conditions will transition Saturday to a mix of rain and snow before becoming all rain by the afternoon, with a high again near 43 degrees and light east winds. Rain chances continue into Saturday night and increase Sunday, when temperatures warm slightly with a high near 49 degrees and a 70% chance of rain.

From The City of Hood River:

By Jackie Vanderpuye

Hood River, Ore., Feb. 19, 2026 — Following an extensive search process, the City of Hood River has selected Michael (Josh) Rogers as its new Fire Chief. The search was initiated when Chief Leonard Damian announced his retirement after more than nine years with the City of Hood River Fire Department.

Rogers brings proven leadership experience and a deep understanding of EMS and fire operations to his new position. He began his fire service career as a firefighter/paramedic in Hapeville, Georgia, and later continued his career with the City of Dallas, Oregon, where he has served since 2022. In both departments, he progressed through increasing levels of responsibility, including the ranks of Lieutenant, Captain, Shift Commander, and most recently, serving as the Deputy Fire Chief in the City of Dallas. His experience with establishing procedures, mentorship and training, budget reviews, working with healthcare partners, and emergency management position him well to lead the City of Hood River Fire Department.

Rogers was born and raised in Atlanta, Georgia, where growing up in a large, dynamic city shaped his appreciation for community, teamwork, and public service. He spent much of his early career in Atlanta, where he met his wife, Andrea, and the two lived for a decade before relocating to the Pacific Northwest to be closer to her family. While the move marked a significant change, Rogers has embraced the region and now proudly calls the Pacific Northwest home. Outside of his professional responsibilities, he enjoys spending time outdoors, hiking, visiting the coast, and following his favorite sports team, the Atlanta Braves.

“Our City is fortunate to welcome a dedicated and experienced fire service leader,” said City Manager Abigail Elder. “Josh understands the challenges and strengths of a modern fire and EMS agency and brings a collaborative approach to serving our community. We look forward to his work with City staff, local area fire departments, and regional partners as we continue our commitment to high-quality emergency fire and medical services.”

Rogers received his Bachelors of Science in Fire Administration from Columbia Southern University in Orange Beach, Alabama, holds a Pro Board accredited Fire Officer IV certification, and earned his Executive Fire Officer certificate from the National Fire Academy.

Hood River, Ore., Feb. 19, 2026 — Visit Hood River announces the return of Hood River Winter PrideFest, March 13–14, marking the third year of this signature celebration honoring Hood River’s LGBTQ+ community and welcoming visitors from near and far. Rooted in the region’s winter adventure culture and creative spirit, the weekend delivers an inclusive lineup of events with welcoming experiences for all.

To celebrate, Visit Hood River, the Columbia Gorge Pride Alliance, local businesses, and community partners curate a dynamic weekend of programming, special events, and lodging offers, making Winter PrideFest a must-attend Pacific Northwest winter tradition.

“Winter PrideFest has become a signature celebration of our local and visiting LGBTQ+ community, reflecting Visit Hood River’s continued commitment to inclusivity and creating a welcoming destination for all,” said Katie Kadlub, CEO of Visit Hood River. “With a dynamic lineup of events featuring music, drag, community gatherings, and the welcoming doors of our shops, tasting rooms, pubs, and restaurants, everyone is invited to fully immerse themselves in a weekend centered on connection and celebration.” 

 Winter PrideFest highlights include:

 Friday, March 13:

Ashleigh Flynn & The Riveters w/special guest Slutashia, and DJ Chelsea Starr

The Ruins

(6 - 10 p.m. | Ticket Link)

To kick off the electric weekend, West Coast–based Americana rock ’n’ roll band Ashleigh Flynn & The Riveters take the stage, joined by special guest Slutashia, returning to bring the house down with her signature drag-rap performance. The night wraps with a high-energy dance party with DJ Chelsea Starr.

Saturday, March 14:

Winter PrideFest Diva Drag Brunch

Hood River Hotel – Emerald Room

(Doors at 11 a.m. | Show noon - 2 p.m. | Ages 21+ | Ticket link; food and alcohol not included)

Enjoy a colorful and spirited Diva Drag Brunch from Justin Buckles Productions, featuring an all-star cast for one of the biggest and best Drag Brunch experiences in the Pacific Northwest. The show includes drag, burlesque, acrobatics, live singing, and more.

 Après Ski Pride Party

Lightwell Hotel – Rooftop Bar

(3 - 6 p.m. | Ages 21+)

Celebrate Winter PrideFest at Rooftop at Lightwell. After a day on the mountain or adventuring in the Gorge, head to Hood River’s only rooftop bar for craft cocktails, live entertainment, and a technicolor sunset. 

 Winter PrideFest Drag Bingo

Hood River Hotel – Emerald Room

(Doors at 6 p.m. | Bingo 7 - 9 p.m. | Ages 21+ | Ticket link)

Dubbed “not your grandma’s bingo,” Riley Burrows hosts an evening of games, laughter, and electrifying drag performances.

 In addition to Pride-focused programming, visitors can enjoy a wide range of winter experiences throughout Hood River. From exploring the scenic Little John Sno-Park to hiking to the stunning Tamanawas Falls, countless winter recreation opportunities are just a short drive from town. Mt. Hood Meadows is easily accessible via the Columbia Area Transit (CAT) Gorge-to-Mountain Express shuttle.

To warm up and unwind, Nordica Haus offers a modern, mobile Nordic sauna experience with climate-controlled changing and gathering spaces designed for comfort and connection.

Food and drink experiences range from iconic breweries like Full Sail Brewing Co. and pFriem Family Brewers to farm-to-table dining throughout the region. The local arts and culture scene offers cozy indoor options, including the History Museum of Hood River County, the Columbia Center for the Arts, and local galleries featuring rotating exhibits and public art.

 Tickets and attendance to Winter Pridefest events are available for individual purchase at visithoodriver.com/event/2026-annual-winter-pridefest/. Local lodging specials are also available at visithoodriver.com/stay/.

 A portion of the proceeds from all Hood River Winter PrideFest events will continue to advance the goals and programs of the Columbia Gorge Pride Alliance, a group of volunteers, organizations, and businesses that work to create a city where lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, intersex, and asexual plus people thrive as healthy and equal members of society. It strives and advocates for respect, equity, justice, and building a safe, peaceful, culturally rich community for LGBTQIA+ people and allies.

For more information about Hood River, visit visithoodriver.com.

For more information on Columbia Gorge Pride Alliance, visit the organization’s Facebook page.

 About Visit Hood River:

Located at the crossroads of the spectacular Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area and the magnificent Cascade Range and just an hour from Portland, Hood River offers outdoor recreation, dramatic vistas, historic landmarks, bountiful fruit, and fantastic food, wine, beer, and cider. With accommodations ranging from luxury hotels to historic B&Bs, Hood River is a four-season destination for families, outdoor enthusiasts, weddings, corporate events, and more. A perennial favorite among travel tastemakers, the destination was most recently named a 2025 Sunset Travel Awards “Top Tastings” winner, following honors as a Best Adventure & Explorations Town (2023) and Nature Lovers Destination (2022) by Sunset. It was also recognized as a Top 10 Wine Destination by Wine Enthusiast (2017) and Best Adventure Town in the West by Sunset (2015). Visit Hood River supports economic development, community development, and destination marketing for Hood River, Cascade Locks, Mosier, Odell, Parkdale, Pine Grove, and Mount Hood. For more information, call 800-366-3530 or visit visithoodriver.com.

The Dalles, Ore., Feb. 17, 2026 — The Dalles Urban Renewal Agency on Tuesday night extended its funding agreements with TD3rd LLC for the Basalt Commons development, preserving up to $1.73 million in urban renewal support for the $31 million mixed-use housing and commercial project planned at 523 E. Third St.

The decision, made during the agency’s regular Feb. 17 meeting, moves the expiration date of the agreements to Aug. 19, 2026. The extension gives developer Mary Hanlon additional time to finalize financing, secure permits and begin construction on the five-story building, which is planned to include 116 apartments, ground-floor commercial space and structured parking.

The project would replace the former Griffith Motors site with one of the largest private residential developments planned in downtown The Dalles in decades.

Hanlon remained hopeful of getting the project underway in her letter to the agency.

“Within three months, we should hear from several third-party entities whose approval we need to proceed,” Hanlon wrote. “Within three months after that, all necessary paperwork, contracts and permits should have been achieved. With this, we could start construction.”

Urban renewal participation includes two major funding components previously approved by the agency: up to $1 million to cover system development charges for the housing units and a separate $730,000 direct equity contribution designed to help close a financing gap caused by rising interest rates, inflation and construction cost increases.

The system development charge funding is paid directly to public agencies on behalf of the project, while the $730,000 contribution provides gap financing intended to make the project financially feasible.

The extension approved Tuesday represents the latest in a series of amendments to the original urban renewal agreement, which was first approved to support redevelopment of the long-vacant downtown parcel. The amendments have primarily focused on extending deadlines and maintaining funding commitments while the developer worked through rising construction costs, financing challenges and third-party approval requirements that have affected multifamily housing projects nationwide.

Wasco County may also play a critical role in advancing the project. The County Commission is currently considering Basalt Commons property and financing but has not yet taken formal action. If approved, county participation could inject several million additional dollars into the project to help close remaining funding gaps, with the expectation that public investment would be repaid over time as the development becomes operational.

Hanlon also emphasized the importance of urban renewal participation in making the project possible.

“We sincerely appreciate your partnership in this essential new construction project in downtown The Dalles,” she wrote. “The project is not viable without the URA participation. We believe that your patience will be rewarded as we are confident that this project will fully perform as anticipated and provide much needed vibrancy and energy to the historic downtown.”

Urban renewal officials said the extension does not increase the previously approved funding amounts but preserves the agency’s commitment while the project moves through its final financing and approval stages.

The Columbia Gateway (The Dalles) Urban Renewal Agency uses tax increment financing to support redevelopment projects intended to stimulate private investment, increase housing supply and revitalize downtown.

By Tom Peterson / photos courtesy The Dalles Police Department

The Dalles, Ore., Feb. 16, 2026 — Two Oregon State Police troopers suffered serious injuries Monday morning when an unloaded log truck reportedly failed to stop at the top of the Interstate 84 Exit 87 off-ramp and struck their Fish and Wildlife pickup sending it into a spin, authorities said.

The impact that caved in the passenger side of the pickup, sent twisted and broken rubble skidding all over the overpass bridge, sending local police and emergency responders scrambling.

The crash occurred at about 7:30 a.m. at the intersection of Highway 197 and Bret Clodfelter Way near the OSP Office. The intersection is a critical junction connecting Interstate 84 traffic to The Dalles Bridge and Highway 197.

According to The Dalles Police Chief Tom Worthy, the log truck was exiting westbound Interstate 84 when it failed to stop at the stop sign and collided with the northbound Oregon State Police pickup occupied by two troopers and their police dog, Scout.

The force of the collision was severe enough to spin the vehicles around.

“It whipped them (OSP pickup) around and then caught the other end of the second semi… it took a lot of force to turn it around,” Worthy said.

After striking the police vehicle, the log truck continued through the intersection and collided with a southbound commercial box trailer, Worthy said.

Both injured troopers, assigned to the Oregon State Police Bend Area Command, were transported to Portland-area trauma centers with significant injuries.

The severity of the crash required a large-scale response that stretched The Dalles Police Department’s staffing, Worthy said. Nearly all available officers were committed to securing the scene, managing traffic and assisting with the investigation, while additional personnel were called in on overtime to handle routine calls elsewhere in the city.

Lt. Jason Calloway of Oregon State Police said the crash was emotionally difficult for responding personnel but confirmed both troopers are recovering.

“They are stable and on the road to recovery, and that is good,” Calloway said. “It was a very intense scene and a lot of damage to vehicles.”

The troopers had been assisting with Fish and Wildlife enforcement related to the Columbia River sturgeon fishing opener, part of seasonal patrol efforts that require troopers to travel statewide.

Only 89 Fish and Wildlife troopers serve the entire state of Oregon, Worthy said, requiring specialized units to deploy where enforcement is needed.

Scout, the Fish and Wildlife police dog involved in the crash, was evaluated by a veterinarian and was not injured, authorities said.

The driver of the log truck was treated and released with non-serious injuries. The driver of the second commercial vehicle was not injured, police said.

The crash prompted closure of Highway 197 and Bret Clodfelter Way for most of the day Monday, as investigators examined the scene and cleared debris. Traffic was diverted through alternate routes including Hood River, Biggs Junction and Highway 30.

Because Oregon State Police personnel were involved in the crash, The Dalles Police Department is leading the investigation, with assistance from Oregon State Police collision reconstruction specialists and commercial vehicle inspectors.

Worthy said the investigation will include inspection of the involved vehicles and review of commercial driver logs and mechanical systems.

The crash carried a personal impact, Worthy said.

One of the injured troopers was someone Worthy had trained alongside as a cadet at Cove Palisades in the mid-1990s, when the two also lived together at the Culver fire hall. Worthy said he immediately recognized the trooper’s name when notified of the crash.

“He’s a good buddy — I know him well, and I know his family,” Worthy said. “I was shocked when I found out it was him.”

The crash remains under investigation.

“No citations — no enforcement taken at this time,” Worthy said. “It is ongoing, and anything during the investigation that warrants enforcement, we will take that if we need to.”

Multiple agencies responded to the crash, including Oregon State Police, The Dalles Police Department, Wasco County Sheriff’s Office, Oregon Department of Transportation and Mid-Columbia Fire and Rescue.

Anyone with information about the wreck is asked to contact The Dalles Police Department at 541-296-2613 and reference case number D26-0261.

Vehicle crashes are one of the most persistent dangers facing law enforcement officers, largely because of the sheer amount of time officers spend on the road. Motor vehicle incidents are the leading cause of on-duty death for law enforcement officers, according to federal safety research, according to the National Library of Medicine. Between 2019 and 2023, more than 230 officers nationwide died accidentally in the line of duty, with 57% killed in vehicle crashes and another 30% struck by vehicles, according to a story by the Associated Press. Officers routinely drive thousands of miles annually responding to calls, conducting patrols and assisting motorists, exposing them to constant traffic risk even outside of enforcement situations.

The Dalles, Ore., Feb. 17, 2026 — The Dalles Public Library will host a mix of creative workshops, games, and family-friendly events with programs for children, teens, and adults throughout the week.

Tuesday, Feb. 17
Little Learners Lab Kids in STEAM Kids 11:15 AM
In this hands-on, play-based program, preschoolers are invited to build structures, make discoveries, ask big questions, and embrace the joy of a little mess. Together, through different STEAM activities, children will grow in curiosity, creativity, and confidence!

Tuesday, Feb. 17
Pokémon GO! Club 4:00-5:30
Registration Required
Join other Pokémon enthusiasts on a walk through downtown The Dalles. We'll form a party and complete challenges, walk to hatch eggs, follow routes, and use our teamwork to take down 5-star raid bosses!

Wednesday, Feb. 18
Adult Art Club: Free Create, 1 p.m. Bring a project or use library supplies in a relaxed creative space to share feedback and ideas. Adults.

Wednesday, Feb. 18
New Release Movie Matinee: Join Us for a "Wicked Good" 4:00 PM
Join us every month on the third Wednesday for a family-friendly movie matinee of a new release! Snacks are provided and everyone is welcome.

Thursday, Feb. 19
Family Craft Night 6:00 PM
Join us for some family fun in February as we make paper lanterns to celebrate the Lunar New Year!

Friday, Feb. 20
Fun Fridays, 3:30 p.m. Weekly rotating activities including crafts, games and trivia. Teens.

Friday, Feb. 20
Winter 2026: Olympic Games 5:00 PM
Join us on Friday in the main part of the library for some quick games to honor the Winter Olympics. 30 min games that will test you- Get ready! "Faster, Higher, Stronger - Together"

Friday, Feb. 20
Sound Meditation with Sam 4:30-5:30 PM
Join us for a unique and peaceful experience as we celebrate the power of sound and stillness. In this serene library setting, you'll be gently led through a meditative journey designed to promote mental clarity, emotional healing, and deep relaxation. Whether you're new to sound baths or a seasoned meditator, this session offers a tranquil space to unwind, reflect, and rejuvenate.

Saturday, Feb. 21
Embroidery with Steph Evans Steph's Choice
10:00 AM
Join us in person. The embroidery project will be Steph's Choice!

Saturday, Feb. 21
Nerf War!! 5:30 PM
Registration Required- Ages 10 to 18
Run through the library, snipe friends (or foes!) from the balcony, or go stealth mode and hide among the stacks. Nerf guns at the ready- pizza is included!

Monday, Feb. 23
Dream Study Group: Gifts from Our Subconscious, 5–7:30 p.m. Registration required. Join Nancy Turner, M.Ed., for an exploration of dreams as metaphorical messages offering insight and personal guidance. Adults.

Monday, Feb. 23
Maker Monday - DIY Book Light
Teens 3:30 - Adults 5:3О
This magical DIY Book Lamp combines paper crafting and paper circuits using conductive tape to create a truly fascinating light.

The Dalles, Ore., Feb. 17, 2026 — The Action Council or MCCAC plays a central role in the region’s housing stability system, operating shelter beds, transitional housing units and utility assistance programs that help prevent evictions, reduce homelessness and connect vulnerable residents with housing and behavioral health services.

It was founded in 1965 and currently provides housing stabilization, utility assistance, shelter and resource connection services to low-income residents across the Mid-Columbia region. The agency currently employs 39 staff members, including nine seasonal employees who work at the Hood River Shelter during winter months.

Energy Assistance

Many residents are familiar with MCCAC through its Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program and Utilities Assistance Program, which help households pay utility bills or purchase bulk fuels to avoid shut-offs. The programs serve thousands of households each year.

Growing Demand and New Gloria Center

Over the past three years, MCCAC said it has expanded its services and infrastructure to meet growing demand.

The Gloria Center in The Dalles serves as MCCAC’s main office and service hub. Located at 2505 W. Seventh St., the center houses MCCAC offices and several partner agencies, including Mid-Columbia Center for Living, Nch’i Wana Housing, Oregon Human Development Corporation, Oregon Department of Human Services and the Columbia Gorge Health Council.

Services provided at The Gloria Center include housing stabilization assistance such as eviction prevention and rental support, utility assistance, veterans services, basic needs supplies and resource referrals. The center also serves as an emergency shelter during severe weather events and natural disasters.

Bread and Blessings operates a hot meal program at The Gloria Center Monday through Friday from 9 to 10 a.m.

MCCAC also operates a monthly drop-in resource center at the facility on the last Friday of each month from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. The drop-in center provides showers, meals, laundry services, basic supplies and connections to services without requiring documentation typically needed for other programs.

Hood River Shelter

In Hood River, MCCAC operates the Hood River Shelter, which provides overnight shelter, meals, hygiene services and housing support from mid-November through March each year. The shelter has operated since 2009 and became part of MCCAC in 2023 through a merger with Hood River Shelter Services. The City of Hood River provides annual funding to support shelter operations.

The Annex Transitional Housing in The Dalles

MCCAC also operates The Annex in The Dalles, a transitional housing program that provides housing and supportive services to individuals and families experiencing homelessness. The facility opened in 2023 after MCCAC purchased and renovated the former Oregon Motor Motel using funding from Oregon’s Project Turnkey program.

The Annex includes separate housing areas for families and individual adults. The average length of stay is approximately four months. Twenty-one units in the adult housing section are currently being converted into permanent supportive housing, while family units will continue to provide transitional housing.

During severe weather events, MCCAC opens emergency shelter space at The Gloria Center. The agency said operating seasonal shelter requires dedicated staffing, including full-time and part-time employees and overnight security.

What’s Next in the series

Additional informational releases in the series will highlight MCCAC’s Supportive Services for Veterans program, its emergency response efforts and its role in regional housing coordination.

Contact information and hours

MCCAC’s The Gloria Center, 2505 W. Seventh St., The Dalles, is open Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., closed from noon to 1 p.m.

MCCAC’s Hood River office, 606 State St., Suite 1B, Hood River, is open Monday through Thursday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., closed from noon to 1 p.m.

Email: Info@mccac.com
Phone: 541-298-5131
Website: www.mccac.com

Tuesday, Feb. 17

‘Songwriters on Songwriting’ at Volcanic Bottle Shoppe

Volcanic Bottle Shoppe in Hood River brings local and regional music to the stage. Join Volcanic for some stories and songs with local musicians, talking about their songwriting process and inspiration - including members of Groove Cabin, Freehugger and more! 7 p.m.

Mardi Gras at Everybody's Brewing

Celebrate Mardi Gras at Everybody’s Brewing in White Salmon on Tuesday, February 17! We’ll be open all day, featuring New Orleans and Louisiana–inspired food specials from 4 p.m. to close, plus live Zydeco music from Funkship Lifeboat from 6–8 p.m. Guests are encouraged to bring their beads and dress in purple, green, and gold to get into the Mardi Gras spirit. This festive, family-friendly celebration is free, open to all ages, and open to the public. Come enjoy great beer, lively music, and classic Mardi Gras flavors in the heart of the Columbia Gorge.

Little Music City was founded in The Dalles, Oregon by a group of individuals passionate about music and their community. www.littlemusiccity.com/

Tuesday, February 17

7:00 PM Reddy Black Trio at Zim’s Sports Bar & Grill

Wednesday, Feb. 18

Lightwell Hotel in Hood River hosts live music in the lobby and other community events.

Live Music with The Lobbyists, 6:30 - 8:30 p.m.⁠

Community Night at Thunder Island Brewing in Cascade Locks

Feral Cat Benefit

Celebrate the organizations that bond our communities. We will donate $1 of every beverage sold between 5 p.m. and close to a featured non-profit organization. This week's Community Night will be benefiting a local non-profit, Feral Cat Coalition of Oregon! They are a spay/neuter program for cats offering services for feral and outdoor stray cats in Oregon and SW Washington.

FCCO is celebrating their 150,000th cat with a raffle! Find out more info on the raffle here: www.feralcats.com/raffle.

Live Music at Tabby’s Hole in One

Tabby’s Hole in One Clubhouse at the Hood River Golf Course presents live music with local and regional bands.

Wednesday, Feb. 18, Open Mic with Kerry Williams, 6-8 p.m.

64 oz. Taphouse in Hood River brings live music to the stage.

Get ready for rip rockin, jump jivin, boot shakin tunes from the Jake Blair Band! You definitely will not be disappointed! 7 p.m.

Thursday, Feb. 19

Cooper Spur Alpine Team Benefit Concert

Music with Tony Smiley

A fundraiser for Cooper Spur Alpine Team!

6-9 p.m. at The Ruins in Hood River

Doors at 5:30 p.m. Indoor venue. All-ages.

Tickets are $15 in advance (click here,) or $20 at the door.

Tony Smiley has captured audiences with the raw rhythms of all live looping. This musical savant loops his way through a unique genre of music that you won’t find anywhere else—all with a witty, engaging, and energetic stage presence.

Double Mountain Brewery in Hood River brings local and regional music to the stage.

Live Music featuring Eric Leadbetter, 6:30 - 8:30 p.m.

 Eric's original music is very unique, with echoes of the golden ages of rock.

Little Music City was founded in The Dalles, Oregon by a group of individuals passionate about music and their community. www.littlemusiccity.com/

Thursday, February 19

6:00 PM Al Hare at Bargeway Pub

7:00 PM Jeff Minnick at Last Stop Saloon

Friday, Feb. 20

An Evening With Garcia Birthday Band

(Grateful Dead Tribute)

**Night 1 of 2**

Fri, Feb 20

The Ruins in Hood River, 6-9 p.m.

Doors at 5:30 p.m. Indoor venue. All-ages. The first of two nights with GBB!

Tickets are $20 in advance (click here,) or $25 at the door.

Garcia Birthday Band, based in Portland, Oregon, isn't your mother's Grateful Dead cover band. Playing for over 20 years, GBB has evolved into something far deeper than the sum of its parts. The beating heart of the Pacific Northwest's GD community, the band's ever-expanding fanbase is an experience for limitless potential and improvisation. Garcia Birthday Band is a cornerstone of the modern Grateful Dead universe, and their fans have come to expect the unexpected as the norm.

Live Music at The Pines in Hood River 

Friday, Feb. 20, The Growlerzz Allstarzz, 6-9 p.m.

Saturday, Feb. 21

The Trout Lake Hall in Trout Lake, Washington brings live music and community events to its historic venue. www.troutlakehall.com/

LOW BAR CHORALE

$15 Advance // $20 Day Of Show
6 p.m. Doors / 7 p.m. Show
All Ages

You show up at a bar or music venue. You grab a drink and within minutes you’re singing the hell out of your favorite rock song with a hundred other folks and - wait for it - a live band of nationally known musicians. In three-part harmony, no less! Wait, what just happened? Welcome to the Low Bar Chorale and what we all not-so-secretly wish singing could be.

We’re drop-in only: no auditions, rehearsals or commitments ever. We sing rock, alt-indie and pop music like Bowie, Lady Gaga, Yacht Rock, or Michael Kiwanuka. We’ve got an incredible band, and we’ve performed with some amazing acts - Built To Spill, Portugal. The Man, Storm Large, and others. The best thing is that ANYONE CAN DO THIS. No prior musical experience required. Just show up with your love of music and an open mind, and we guarantee you’ll sound great. So if this sounds like something you’d love, what are you waiting for?

Little Music City was founded in The Dalles, Oregon by a group of individuals passionate about music and their community. www.littlemusiccity.com/

Saturday, February 21

6:00 PM Jeff Carrell at Bargeway Pub

7:00 PM Miller & Sasser at Zim’s Sports Bar & Grill

8:00 PM Dave Tallman at Last Stop Saloon

Working Hands Fermentation in Hood River presents live music, trivia nights and more.

Saturday, Feb. 21, Music with James Rossi: One of our taproom favorites to come play. Come check him out! 7:30 p.m.

Always a free show on our stage!

Sunday, Feb. 22

Phelps Creek Vineyard in Hood River presents live music in the tasting room with local and regional bands.

Welcoming back trio,  Willie and Nelson Music, 5-7 p.m.

Working Hands Fermentation in Hood River 

Sunday, Feb. 22, Open Mic, 7-9:30 p.m. (all ages welcome)

Monday, Feb. 23

Everybody’s Brewing in White Salmon 

Monday, Feb. 23, Matt Mitchell (Salty Americana), 6-8 p.m.

Thanks for Reading! If you enjoyed Gorge Giggin’ Guide Highlights please check out our Local Calendar for a deeper dive into what’s happening in The Gorge! You can even Upload your own event - Subscribe to Stay in the Know!

They happen in places with drought, war, or political instability not here. Not in a country where grocery stores restock overnight and strawberries show up in January.

That assumption feels reasonable.

It’s also incomplete.

Because in modern America, food insecurity doesn’t begin with empty fields. It begins quietly often with something like a food processing plant closing.

When Del Monte Foods announced it would close its last remaining California cannery, the story barely registered outside agricultural circles. To most shoppers, nothing changed. Cans still sit on shelves. The labels look familiar.

But something important disappeared: domestic processing capacity for fruits and vegetables grown in the United States.

That may sound technical.

It isn’t.

Between orchards and grocery aisles sit canneries, packing houses, cold storage facilities, and transportation networks. These are the invisible systems that keep shelves full. When one of them disappears, the system becomes thinner.

Some fruits grown for canning — like cling peaches — don’t have a fresh market. They are planted specifically because a processor has committed to buying them. These orchards are long-term investments. Trees can produce for 20 years, and it can take nearly a decade for a grower to recover the initial planting costs.

If a cannery closes, the trees don’t pivot to something else. Growers either scramble for short-term buyers or pull the orchard out entirely.

That’s not just a farm problem. That’s domestic capacity quietly leaving the system.

And we’ve already seen what fragility looks like.

During the baby formula shortage, shelves went empty nationwide because production was concentrated in too few facilities. When one major plant shut down, there wasn’t enough backup capacity to absorb the loss.

During avian influenza outbreaks, egg prices spiked sharply. Production had consolidated into fewer, larger operations, leaving little redundancy when disease hit.

In both cases, food didn’t disappear because America forgot how to produce it. It disappeared because there wasn’t enough margin in the system to handle disruption.

That’s what fragility looks like.

Food companies across sectors meat, vegetables, beverages, packaged goods have been consolidating operations into fewer, larger plants. Some production has shifted overseas.

Some has simply been centralized domestically. Companies call it efficiency. In many cases, it is.

But efficiency and resilience are not the same thing.

Efficiency reduces redundancy. Resilience depends on it.

One reason consumers don’t notice these shifts is that brands survive. A familiar label on a can doesn’t necessarily mean the food was processed domestically or that the infrastructure supporting U.S. growers remains intact. Production today is global and flexible. Brands can shift sourcing more easily than physical facilities can be rebuilt.

When domestic plants close, shelves can still look full — but the country becomes more dependent on long supply chains, international shipping, and global stability.

That works well — until something goes wrong.

The likely outcome of continued consolidation and capacity loss is not famine. It’s something subtler:

Fewer domestic processing options;

Greater reliance on imports;

Longer supply chains;

Faster price spikes during disruptions;

And slower recovery when facilities fail.

In other words, food that appears abundant — but is structurally thinner.

Most of the time, that difference is invisible.

Until it isn’t.

Resilience in food systems doesn’t mean rejecting trade or turning inward. It means balance.

It means maintaining regional processing facilities close to production. It means avoiding dependence on single plants for entire product categories. It means recognizing that domestic capacity is infrastructure, not excess.

We don’t treat power plants, water systems, or bridges as optional. Food processing infrastructure deserves similar attention.

Because once capacity disappears, rebuilding it is slow, expensive, and uncertain.

A full grocery shelf proves that today’s supply chain is functioning. It does not prove that tomorrow’s will.

Food security in modern America doesn’t vanish overnight. It erodes gradually through plant closures, consolidation, and the quiet loss of capacity most people never see.

When a cannery closes, it may look like just another business story.

It isn’t.

It’s a signal.

Food security in modern America doesn’t vanish overnight. It erodes gradually — through plant closures, consolidation, and the quiet loss of capacity most people never see.

As Oregon and Washington debate environmental, labor, water, and trade policies, the conversation should include a simple question: do our decisions strengthen the region’s ability to grow and process its own food, or make us more dependent on someone else’s system? That answer will matter most when the next disruption arrives.

From the seat of a tractor, you learn that what looks solid from a distance can be thinning underneath and it’s always wiser to notice the cracks before the ground gives way.

Our good friend Gretchen Kimsey brings us greetings from St. Paul’s Episcopal Church here in The Dalles.

She also said the church is going to flip Tuesday, Feb. 17, on its ear and even add some syrup to the celebration.

The Church is holding Shrove Tuesday Pancake Feed. But not in the morning. Volunteers will be serving pancakes for dinner in a fundraiser set for 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. at the church’s lower level at 1805 Minnesota St.

Local Pancake gourmands can donate an amount of their choosing, Kimsey said, noting that’s the butter that will help The Dalles put food on the table for others. Here’s how.

Proceeds from the feed will benefit the local Food Bank, which serves more than 6,000 people per month.

Investment will bring fiber internet to over 900 homes and businesses in Wasco County 

The Dalles, Ore., Feb. 12, 2026 — QLife Network has been awarded a $15.2 million federal grant to expand high-speed fiber internet service to 924 homes and businesses in Northern Wasco County.

For residents in rural pockets west and southwest of The Dalles — where internet speeds can lag or service can be unreliable — the investment means faster connections for remote work, online classes, telehealth appointments and farm operations that increasingly depend on digital tools. For small businesses, it could mean the difference between competing online or falling behind.

The funding comes through the federal Broadband Equity, Access and Deployment program, known as BEAD, and is part of Oregon’s newly approved final proposal authorized by the National Telecommunications and Information Administration. QLife is one of 19 awardees selected statewide to help expand broadband to areas lacking reliable service.

Under the grant, QLife will install more than 30 miles of fiber broadband over the next four years, beginning in rural and unincorporated areas near Chenoweth Creek, Cherry Heights and Browns Creek. The expansion will also reach upland areas between The Dalles and Mosier, along with select homes and businesses along the Columbia River east of The Dalles.

The total project investment is approximately $20 million, including a required local match of about $5 million. The funding will cover engineering, permitting, materials, construction and final deployment. The project is expected to support about 20 jobs.

“This is a defining moment for our community,” said Liz Lance, executive director of QLife Network. “For too long, rural families, farms, and small businesses have been left behind without reliable high-speed internet. This investment allows us to deliver the high-speed internet access they have long deserved.”

The BEAD program, funded through the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, represents the largest broadband investment in Oregon’s history. Statewide, the initiative is expected to connect more than 104,000 unserved and underserved households, healthcare facilities and businesses across 36 counties and seven tribal communities.

“This project strengthens the foundation of our local economy,” said Lee Weinstein, QLife board president. “Reliable broadband supports students, small businesses, healthcare providers and public safety. This investment positions Wasco County for long-term opportunity.”

QLife officials said the organization will provide updates as the project moves through contracting, permitting and construction planning, with additional information to be shared as deployment timelines and service availability are finalized.

QLife Network, founded in 2001, operates a public high-speed fiber optic network serving residents, businesses, schools and public agencies throughout the Mid-Columbia region. More information is available at qlife.net.

By Tom Peterson

The Dalles, Ore., Feb. 12, 2026 — A 38-year-old houseless man was found deceased Wednesday afternoon near the Interstate 84 westbound on-ramp at Exit 82, north of Home Depot, according to The Dalles Police Department.

Caleb Massengale was discovered around 2:44 p.m. on Feb. 11 by individuals walking in the area, who checked on him and determined he was deceased before contacting authorities, said The Dalles Police Sgt. Douglas Kramer.

Massengale was often seen in the downtown core wearing camouflage face paint, and was somewhat well known with some downtown businesses.

Officers responded to Milepost 82 and are handling the death investigation in coordination with Dr. Christopher Van Tilburg, Wasco County Medical Examiner. Kramer said there were no immediate indications of foul play.

An official cause of death has not been determined. Toxicology results are pending through the medical examiner’s office.

Kramer said Massengale had a history of drug use and had multiple prior contacts with local law enforcement over the years.

“We’ve tried to give him assistance for multiple years,” Kramer said.

The investigation remains ongoing. Additional information may be forthcomeing if released pending the results of the medical examiner’s report.

Wednesday, Feb. 11

Thunder Island Brewing in Cascade Locks presents live music, trivia nights and more.

Be My Valentine Night Market - Wednesday, February 11, from 5-8 p.m. in the Tent featuring local artists and live music from Aram Arslanian!

Shop local art including knits, baked goods, candles, cards, jewelry, clothing, reclaimed art, prints, paintings, hats and so much more!

Aram will be on stage from 5:30-7:30pm!
- Unforgettable 20th century classics as well as a handful from the 21st! Accompanying his rich tenor on both guitar and piano, he enhances the warm and familial atmosphere that you have created for your guests. Some of the artists he emulates are Elton John, Jackson Browne, Tom Petty, Springsteen, Police, Steve Miller, Beatles and MANY more!

The River Room (downstairs) bar will be open with a Foosball tournament happening. Come enjoy our full menu and delicious brews while shopping and catch some live music for a nice evening in our beer garden tent!

Hood River Brewing Co. in Hood River features live music onstage at the taproom from local and regional acts.

Wednesday, Feb. 11, Open Stage, 5:30-8 p.m.

The Secret Salsa Society is your place for Salsa Dancing in the Gorge! Join the weekly dance at a fun, local venue. Expect to hear Salsa, Bachata, Merengue, Cha Cha Cha, Timba, Cumbia, and more. Suggested donation $3 per person. All Ages event and Beginners are welcome! Beginner lessons at 6:30 p.m.

• Wednesday, Feb. 11, Crush Cider Cafe (Hood River), 7-9 p.m.

Thursday, Feb. 12

Love Stinks: An Anti-Valentine's Party for the Gorge

Sick of Valentine's Day crap? Join us for a hilarious, interactive night with stories, games, comedy, Love Stinks open mic and more.

Tired of heart-shaped everything? Us too.

Join us the Thursday before Valentine's Day for a funny yet cathartic celebration of romantic disasters, dating app nightmares, and the beautiful chaos of being single (or wishing you were).

Featuring local favorite comedic storytellers and hosted by the infamous GALgorithm from the Gorge Dating Show.

Click here for ticket.

Little Music City was founded in The Dalles, Oregon by a group of individuals passionate about music and their community. www.littlemusiccity.com/

Thursday, February 12

6:00 PM Jeff Carrell at Bargeway Pub

7:00 PM Jeff Minnick at Last Stop Saloon

Double Mountain Brewery in Hood River brings local and regional music to the stage.

February 12, Live Music featuring Gardentender, 6:30 pm - 8:30 pm

Join us in Hood River for live music by Gardentender. Gardentender is the songwriting duo of  Kyle Glenn and  LINOY- partners in life and music.

Friday, Feb. 13

The Trout Lake Hall in Trout Lake, Washington brings live music and community events to its historic venue. www.troutlakehall.com/

Best Intentions Dance Band 

Friday, February 13

$12 Advance // $15 Day Of Show
6pm Doors / 7pm Show
All Ages

BARN BURNER shows are all about the dancing! No matter who might be on the stage, you are guaranteed to groove.

BEST INTENTIONS

The Best Intentions is a Portland, Oregon-based American roots music dance-band specializing in traditional honkytonk, western swing, and roots rock & roll, but can occasionally be seen dipping its toes into other sub-genres of American music as well. Made up of longtime members of the NW music community, the band features Bret Ervin (Countryside Ride, Barndoor Slammers) on vocals and guitar; Jesse Cunningham (Countryside Ride, Western Supply Co.) on vocals, pedal-steel guitar, and lead guitar; Christine McAllister (Bees in a Bottle, The Good Long Whiles) on vocals and electric bass; and Kevin, the “Shuffle-King,” Major (Countryside Ride, Jackson County Kills, The County Champs) on drums.

Live Music at The Pines

The Pines Tasting Room in Hood River hosts live music featuring local and regional musicians.

Friday, Feb. 13, Big River Blues, 6-9 p.m.

Valentine's Dance at Mid-Columbia Senior Center

1112 W 9th St, The Dalles

$5 per person. Doors open at 5:30 p.m.; dancing starts at 6! Join us for a night of fun with door prizes, finger food, a no-host bar, and great live music!

Poetry Open Mic: Voices of the Elements

Friday, Feb 13, 7-9 p.m.

The Dalles Art Center

Experience an evening of poetry, community, and creative expression at TDAC’s first-ever Poetry Open Mic, hosted by local poet Laurel Kirby. Inspired by our current exhibition, Elemental: Earth, Air, Water, Fire, Spirit, this gathering invites writers of all ages and experience levels to share original work connected to the natural forces that shape our world, or pieces that speak directly to their inner spirit. Poets are welcome to read several pieces, depending on poem length and the number of participants. Listeners are warmly encouraged to attend and enjoy the many voices and perspectives within our community. Participation, whether as a poet or a listener, is free of charge. We hope you’ll join us in experiencing the artistry of written and spoken word!

The Gorge Dating Show

Friday, Feb 13, 7-9 p.m.

The Ruins in Hood River

A Live Audience Game Show Solving the Gorge Dating Problem

Tickets: Advance - $20 | Door - $25. Tickets available here: www.tickettomato.com/event/9811

18+ | Indoor show. | Pets are not allowed. Doors at 6pm.

Come watch (or apply to participate in) a live game show around dating in the Gorge!

The Gorge Dating Show is a weird-but-fun event series for romantics, realists, “I’m in love with my kayak” people, and everyone in between. Whether you’re looking for sparks, sidekicks, or just a good story to tell, we’re here to make meeting people a little less awkward and a lot more fun for everyone involved.

Saturday, Feb. 14

Funkship - Get your Heart on!

February 14, 7 p.m. at The Bingen Theater

The Bingen's Resident Band

Funkship

Get your Heart on!

Annual Mardi Gras Parade and Costume Dance Party

Doors open at 7 p.m.
Parade begins at 7:30 p.m.

Stay after for the dance party and keep the celebration going.

Costumes encouraged. Love in the air, funk in your feet, and samba in your soul. Come celebrate and dance the night away!

www.bigbritches.org/funkship---get-your-heart-on-tickets

Granada Theater The Dalles

Valentine's Day

Saturday, FEBRUARY 14
Murder Mystery Dinner Theatre -
Audience Interactive Whodunit
DEATH OF A GANGSTER
Dinner 6:30 p.m.
Show 7:30 p.m.

Tickets:

granadatheatrethedalles.com/events-and-buy-tickets/2-14-murder-mystery-theatre/

The Trout Lake Hall in Trout Lake, Washington brings live music and community events to its historic venue. www.troutlakehall.com/

SPARROW SMITH & THE RESONANT ROGUES

Saturday, February 14

$15 Advance // $20 Day Of Show
6pm Doors / 7pm Show
All Ages

Celebrate Valentine’s Day with a little Louisiana flair! Join us for a fun and approachable Cajun Two-Step lesson — perfect for absolute beginners and anyone looking to refresh the basics. We’ll cover basic footwork, connection, and how to turn with ease, so you can dance comfortably with anyone on the floor.

Already have some dance experience? We’ve got bonus tips to elevate your frame, styling, and musicality to match the groove of the band.

Then stick around and kick up your heels to live music from Sparrow Smith & the Resonant Rouges. Sparrow is a beloved multi-instrumentalist from Marshall, NC. Known for her evocative songwriting and vibrant stage presence, she blends Appalachian old-time, Cajun, Zydeco, swing, Cumbia, and Balkan music into a sound that’s as danceable as it is eclectic. Expect banjo, accordion, and bold style in every note.

Dance class is included with admission, but totally optional.

Sunday, Feb. 15

Open Mic at Working Hands

Working Hands Fermentation in Hood River presents live music, trivia nights and more.

Sunday, Feb. 15, Open Mic, 7-9:30 p.m.

A great event for all, performing or witnessing.

(all ages welcome)

Little Music City was founded in The Dalles, Oregon by a group of individuals passionate about music and their community. www.littlemusiccity.com/

Sunday, February 15

7:00 PM Rich & Blonde at Last Stop Saloon

Phelps Creek Vineyard in Hood River presents live music in the tasting room with local and regional bands.

Sunday, February 15, Lesley & Friends Music, 5-7 p.m.

Monday, Feb. 16

Little Music City was founded in The Dalles, Oregon by a group of individuals passionate about music and their community. www.littlemusiccity.com/

Monday, February 16

7:00 PM Al Hare at Last Stop Saloon

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