With a population of 16,000, The Dalles can claim more roses per person in our rose garden than “the city of roses,” Portland, Oregon.

For the first time ever this spring, I bought a pair of rose bushes for our yard. My husband enjoys his view of the roses from his man cave. They serve as a reminder that I will care as lovingly for him as I do them.

This Week at The Dalles Library: Oct. 20, 2025

As the shutdown drags on and inflation lingers near 3%, Oregonians from The Dalles to Hood River joined the nationwide “No Kings” protests, denouncing creeping authoritarianism, stalled relief, and the widening cost burden facing working families.

Educators, industry leaders, and community partners from across the Columbia Gorge came together at Hood River Valley High School (HRVHS) for the second Career and Technical Education (CTE) Regional Advisory Committee meeting.

Visit Hood River has awarded $26,800 in matching funds to three local organizations through its annual Community Investment Grant Program. Designed to support small businesses and promote long-term economic vitality in the greater Hood River area, the program provides matching grants to projects that enhance, promote, and sustain Hood River as a vibrant destination, contributing to the community's growth and well-being.

Imagine trying to button a shirt while your hands don’t quite do what you tell them to. Voices echo. Lights blur. Simple directions slip away. For millions living with dementia, that’s everyday life.

Local residents in the Columbia River Gorge will join “millions” of Americans nationwide in a coordinated day of nonviolent protest for the second No Kings Day of Action on Saturday, Oct. 18.

Protests are planned for The Dalles, Hood River, White Salmon, Stevenson, Hermiston, and Pendleton.

Horizon Christian School will host the Higher Education Fair 2025 on Friday, Oct. 17, from 4 to 7 p.m. in the school’s gymnasium at 700 Pacific Ave. The free community event will connect students and families from across the Columbia Gorge with more than 20 universities, community colleges, trade schools, and military branches.

The 2024 Annual Report for Washington Gorge Action Programs (WAGAP) is now available to the public following approval by the board of directors during a recent meeting. The Community Action Agency has served Skamania and Klickitat counties since 1966, supporting low-income families to improve their quality of life.

There were webs, cider, and plenty of giggles at The Dalles Public Library on Tuesday afternoon as kids and parents came together for “Cider & Spiders,” a fall-themed craft and storytime that celebrated all things creepy-crawly.

Big changes are coming to The Dalles. Join city officials Oct. 30 at City Hall to learn about the new Federal Street Plaza, First Street upgrades, and major sewer and stormwater improvements on West 10th Street.

The Dalles Art Center (TDAC) is excited to announce a new Artist-in-Residence program at Colonel Wright Elementary School, featuring celebrated watercolor artist Elizabeth Zimmerman.

With the federal shutdown halting employment data releases, Oregon economists are operating without their key monthly report. The absence leaves policymakers and businesses unable to gauge current job trends, wages, or the state’s economic trajectory.

With the continued forecast of cool, wet weather, local Fire Districts, Wasco County, and the Oregon Department of Forestry (ODF) have agreed to lift the seasonal burn ban on October 17th at 12:01 a.m.

The City of White Salmon has opened applications for its 2026 Lodging Tax Grant Program, offering funding for events, facilities, and promotions that attract visitors and boost tourism. Applications are due Nov. 14 by 5 p.m.

The Dalles City Council approved long-awaited updates to its public-nuisance law, adding safeguards and victim protections while hearing emotional testimony from nonprofits. Bread and Blessings organizer Teresa Yragui-Zeman urged the city not to “blame nonprofits for the actions of adults.”

The intersection of East 12th and Thompson will close Oct. 15–17 as Crestline crews re-grade and pave. The $1.9M project upgrades drainage, sidewalks, and access at no cost to nearby homeowners.

All The Best is here in this week’s Giggin’ Guide - Get Out There! Hey, Broomriders! Witches Walk and Parade is this Saturday, Oct. 18 in The Dalles. Cast a spell. Raise some hell.

The library transforms into a hub of autumn magic this week, with hands-on crafts, storytelling, and community fun inspired by the season. Hatch your own “mini water monsters,” craft a witch’s broom, sip cider while making spider art, or gather for Sleepy Hollow movie nights and ghostly art projects.