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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!

Pedal to the Metal: Bargeway Drives into Waterfront Wednesday for Toy Donation

Pedal to the Metal: Bargeway Drives into Waterfront Wednesday for Toy Donation

Bargeway Pub & Catering’s Entertainment Weekly

Put that cart in Drive and don’t let up til the stuffed toys be spillin’ over.

Eli Howard goes acoustic tonight, Nov. 29, for Waterfront Wednesday at the Bargeway Pub in The Dalles. He will anchor a toy drive with heartfelt songs and some nice fretwork.

By Jim Drake at gorgeentertainment@gmail.com

You better watch out.

You better not cry.

You better not pout

I’m telling you why.

Eli Howard is coming to town.

And he’s playing to fill that toy pack as Bargeway Pub puts one on for the kids as they host a Toy Drive for Waterfront Wednesday at the Dalles Premier Venue next to the Columbia River.

People attending the free show tonight are encouraged to bring a present that will bring smiles to local boys and girls on Christmas morning after the big man puts a finger to his nose and sucks back up the chimney.

And that’s just the start of another great week of entertainment and good vibes. Check out the lineup:

Jeff Carrell

Wednesday, Nov. 29 - Eli Howard Toy Drive, 6 p.m.

Thursday, Nov. 30 - Jeff Carrell, 6 p.m.

Friday, Dec. 1 - Alanzo Garbonzo, 6 p.m.

Rhonda Funk plays on Saturday, Dec. 2

Saturday, Dec. 2 - Singer Songwriter Rhonda Funk of Nashville, 6 p.m.

Sunday, Dec. 3, - NFL Ticket

Monday, Dec. 4 - NFL Monday Night Football.



Gorge Speakeasy at Ruins

Gorge Speakeasy is The Premier Storytelling Event in the Gorge. An evening of storytelling returns on Wednesday, Dec. 6, from 6-9 p.m. at The Ruins in Hood River. Learn more, sign up for email updates or volunteer to share a story at: itsangiemarie.com/gorgespeakeasy

About the Event

Community members take the stage to share stories centered around a theme of the month. You can sign up to share a story, or just sit back and listen. Admission is by donation of any size; proceeds are donated to a local nonprofit each month to keep our community strong through the joy of sharing stories.

Yak Attack w/ Swindler at Ruins

The Ruins in Hood River presents Yak Attack with Swindler on Saturday, Dec. 9, 7 p.m. Indoor show, tickets available at: https://www.tickettomato.com/event/8346

About the event

Yak Attack is a live electronica power trio from Portland, Oregon. Founded in 2013, the band has experienced steady growth over the past few years and has been building buzz on the strength of its live shows and the instant connection its music makes with new listeners. The group's music is best described as "organic electronica", using skillful playing, live loops, and tightly constructed songs combined with raw improvisation to build high-energy and uplifting music from scratch, where every note is played and recorded live.

Swindler produces a fresh and original sound that integrates funk, jazz, and psychedelic rock into a masterful sonic tapestry. Their innovative approach makes each live experience compelling and unique. The band continues to expand an already rapidly growing fanbase with each show. Funk-based grooves, tight melodic arrangements, and strong instrumental improvisation all create a vibe that brings the dance floor alive.

Live Music at Grateful Vineyard

Grateful Vineyard in Mt. Hood presents the Rock in the Vines Music Series. All ages are welcome, friendly dogs on leashes too. No cover charge.

Saturday, Dec. 2, Ben Tell, 4-6 p.m.

Sunday, Dec. 10, Chic Preston and Friends, 3-5 p.m.

‘Dishonored Lady’ at Granada Theater

It’s classic 1947 film noir crime with Dishonored Lady, Saturday, Dec. 2, at The Granada Theater in The Dalles. Doors open 5:30 p.m. Show at 6 p.m.

Starring Hedy Lamarr and Dennis O'Keefe. Madeleine Damien is the fashion editor of a slick Manhattan magazine called Boulevard. Men are attracted to her, including boss Victor Kranish, wealthy advertiser Felix Courtland and former assistant, Jack Garet, who now works for Courtland and is blackmailing her about events from her past.

Tickets at:

https://granadatheatrethedalles.com/events-and-buy-tickets/12-2-movie-dinner/

Live Music at Zim’s

Zim’s Brau Haus in The Dalles presents live local music.

The Big River Blues Band

Friday, Dec. 1, The Big River Blues Band, 7-9:30 p.m.

Saturday, Dec. 2, Bret Lucich Show, 7-9:30 p.m.

Community Night at Thunder Island

Thunder Island Brewing in Cascade Locks presents Community Night, Wednesday, Dec. 6, from 5-9 p.m., benefitting the Gorge Canoe Club. Thunder Island will donate $1 of every beverage sold between 5 and 9 p.m. to a featured non-profit organization.

Clubs meet at TD Library

Bookclubs and more meet at The Dalles Library:

Friday, Dec. 1, Teens Zines Mini Magazines, 3 p.m.

Saturday, Dec. 2, Angel Ocasio, music and stories, 11 a.m.

Tuesday, Dec. 5, Adult Writing Group, 5:30 p.m.

Dancing with the Gorge Stars 2024

Dancing with the Gorge Stars returns Friday, Jan. 12, at 7 p.m., at The Dalles High School. Six local Gorge "stars" will compete for your votes at this mid-winter fundraiser for Mid Columbia Community Concert Association.

About The Event

Mid-Columbia Community Concert Association is proud to bring back, by popular demand, the 10th annual Dancing With The Gorge Stars competition. Six local Gorge "stars" will compete for your votes at this mid-winter fundraiser for MCCCA. Like the reality TV dance show, our contestants learn a dance routine prior to show time. But in this show, the competitors are our friends and neighbors from the Gorge area. Paired with a professional dancer from the Utah Ballroom Dance Co., they have one week to learn and perfect their routines before performing on stage before a live audience. Video highlights of the rehearsals are shown during the event to showcase how far each contestant has come in just one week.

An entertaining judging-panel of three locals score each couple after their individual performance. During intermission the audience cast their votes which are combined with the judges scores and tallied to determine who wins the beautiful mirror ball trophy. The second half of the show is a spectacular performance of the Utah Ballroom Dance Co. with a professional showcase featuring a variety of highly choreographed and technical dancing.

Tickets at:

https://www.midcolumbiacommunityconcerts.org/events/dancing-with-the-gorge-stars-2024

Live Music at Trout Lake Hall

Trout Lake Hall in Trout Lake, Washington is bringing live music back to the Historic building’s stage.

Songwriters in the Round

Friday, Dec. 1, Songwriters in the Round - Beard and Banjo, Lincoln Crockett, Garett Brennan, and Savannah Clancy, Free Show, 6 p.m. Doors / 7 p.m. Show All Ages

Spend the evening with us as four songwriters, Beard and Banjo, Lincoln Crockett, Garett Brennan, and Savannah Clancy take to the stage to share their songs and the stories behind them.

Saturday, Dec. 2, Lewi Longmire & The Left Coast Roasters, Rock Roots Americana, $10 Advance // $12 Day Of Show, 6 p.m. Doors / 7 p.m. Show, All Ages

Lewi Longmire & The Left Coast Roasters

Lewi Longmire has built a reputation as Portland's multi-instrumentalist "go to guy." In the years since relocating to Portland from Albuquerque, New Mexico, he's been included on shows and recordings by many of the Northwest's finest bands and songwriters.

Sunday, Dec. 3, Open Mic Night with Lincoln Crockett, Free Show, All Ages, Doors at 5 p.m., Sign up by 5:30 p.m., Open Mic 5:30-7:30 p.m.

Join us in bringing the good times to the Hall every month! Historic room, great sound, supportive audience. Early and fun. Upright piano available.

Bring your songs or come to listen. We hear sung and instrumental originals and covers by rockers, campfire folkies, bluegrass pickers, blues hounds, country stalwarts, even had spoken word poetry that went over gangbusters. Music knows no bounds and over its 100+ years this room has heard it all.

More information and tickets at: https://www.troutlakehall.com/

Holiday Gathering at 301 Gallery

Join the artists at 301 Gallery in Hood River for a Holiday Gathering on Friday, Dec. 1, from 5-7 p.m. Music by The Good Notes Trio and libations by Crush Cider.

Winter Fashion Show at HR Elks

Glowbal Events presents the Winter Fashion Show at the Elks Lodge in Hood River on Saturday, Dec. 9, starting at 7 p.m.

Tickets available at:

https://www.eventbrite.com/e/winter-fashion-show-tickets-745680449297?aff=oddtdtcreator&fbclid=IwAR2XhhBBtzU2JQj3mL4EtDxbzXlNbSGN4e7zqNuOjW6l38BrXpi0BZ6KWUw

About the event

Join Glowbal Events for a dazzling evening of style, talent, and holiday cheer at the First annual Winter Fashion Show, showcasing the freshest fashions and entertainment. Immerse yourself in the vibrant world of art as talented artists create masterpieces right before your eyes. Witness their creativity come to life. Art will be raffled off at the end of the night.

Browse the intimate selection of last-minute holiday gifts available for purchase, at our mini holiday market. Prepare to be enchanted by captivating performances from talented local dancers, Ariel artists and entertainers. Every ticket comes with a chance to win door prize goodies from our generous sponsors. Dress to impress in your festive holiday fashion. A portion of the proceeds will go Meadow Wood Speech and Hearing Camp for kids.

Voci Community Choir presents Holiday Pops

Voci Community Choir is thrilled to announce their upcoming choir concert, "Holiday Pops and More,” on Friday, Dec. 8 (7 p.m.) and Sunday, Dec. 10 (2 p.m.), at Hood River Valley Christian Church in Hood River.

This evening of choral music promises to captivate audiences with a diverse selection of songs spanning various eras and genres.

Tickets can be purchased at www.gorgeorchestra.org or at the venue on the day of the event.

About the event

Now under the artistic direction of Dan Kenealy, Voci has been celebrated for its vocal artistry and commitment to creating unforgettable musical experiences. "Holiday Pops and More" is poised to continue this tradition by taking attendees on a remarkable journey through various holiday favorites, exploring the rich tapestry of human expression through song.

This concert will feature a repertoire that includes:

- Audience singalong selections including favorites such as Deck the Halls, My Favorite Things (from the Sound of Music), and It Came Upon a Midnight Clear

- Contemporary Choral works by composers such as Frank Ticheli

- World music selections

- Vocal pop selections inspired by artists such as Kelly Clarkson and the Jonas Brothers

Gorge Makerspace Fundraiser Event

Gorge Makerspace in White Salmon is celebrating a Festival of Making on Saturday, Dec. 2 with an afternoon of shop tours, artist maker showcases, silent auctions, craft events and more. Hot drinks and tasty bites provided. Admission to this Gorge Makerspace Fundraising event is a suggested donation of $10.

3-5 p.m. - Gift making stations for the whole family: make a holiday gift for your loved ones.

5-7 p.m. - Maker showcase: artist demos, tours of the space, silent auction.

Author Kirkpatrick in online discussion

Author Jane Kirkpatrick is joining the White Salmon Library by Zoom on Saturday, Dec. 2, to talk about the importance of stories along with a discussion of her stories and how the women she's written about connect us. Jane Kirkpatrick is an award-winning author of 40 titles, most based on the lives of historical women. Her works have sold nearly 2 million copies and been translated into German, Finnish, Dutch and Chinese. She lives in Redmond, OR with her husband Jerry and Cavalier King Charles Spaniel Rupert. Sign up at https://fvrl.librarymarket.com/tea-author-jane-kirkpatrick

Live music at Dufur Valley Tavern

Dufur Valley Tavern presents live music and more.

Saturday, Dec. 2, Rich & Blonde, 7-9 p.m.

Saturday, Dec. 9, Dry Canyon Stampede, 7-9 p.m.

Saturday, Dec. 16, Tom Letson, 7-9 p.m.

Saturday, Dec. 23, Bob Connolly, 7-9 p.m.

Jacob Marley's Christmas Carol at Bingen Theater

Big Britches Productions presents a playful and tongue-in-cheek twist on Charles Dickens' classic tale with Jacob Marley's Christmas Carol, at the Bingen Theater. Shows are Dec. 1, 2, 8, 9, 15 and 16 (7:30 p.m.) and Dec. 3 and 10 (2 p.m.)

Tickets available at: https://www.bigbritches.org/jacob-marleys-christmas-carol-tickets

About the play

Jacob Marley is dead, as we all know. What we don't know is that in his death, he has 24 hours to do the impossible: redeem Ebenezer Scrooge, the one man alive who is worse than he. Otherwise, Jacob Marley will be condemned to eternal torment, wearing the very real chains in death that he metaphorically forged in life. Guided by a mischievous imp called a Bogle, Jacob Marley sets out to redeem his former partner... and may just find redemption himself. Written by Tom Mula, Directed by Joe Garoutte.

Jacob Marley's Christmas Carol is family-friendly - audience age is recommended at 7 and up. There are moments of intensity that may be unsettling to sensitive and/or smaller children. Run Time Approx. 1 hr 45 min.

CGOA Jazz Collective Big Band at Granada

Mark your calendars for Friday, Dec. 1, at The Granada Theater in The Dalles as the Columbia Gorge Orchestra Association’s Jazz Collective Big Band promises to deliver an electrifying performance that showcases the best of holiday-themed swing and dance music.

The Jazz Collective Big Band Holiday Dance starts at 8 p.m. Tickets are available at www.gorgeorchestra.org. A limited number of $5 tickets are available at the door for holders of SNAP or QUEST cards.

About the event

The vibrant energy of jazz and swing is set to fill the historic Granada Theatre, as the acclaimed Jazz Collective Big Band takes the stage for an unforgettable evening of holiday big band classics. Composed of seasoned musicians, music educators and experts in the genre, the music will transport the audience for an entertaining and rhythm-filled evening.

Directed by Michael Paul, the band’s repertoire spans from the swing era of the 1930s and 1940s to the golden age of big band swing through modern jazz., characterized by sophisticated arrangements and energetic rhythms. Adding to the excitement, the band will infuse the night with a touch of holiday cheer. The timeless tradition of dancing to swing music will be happily incorporated into the performance.

Peter Pan auditions at Civic Nov. 28-29

The Dalles Civic Auditorium Children’s Theatre is hosting open auditions for the spring performance of “Peter Pan.” Auditions will take place on Tuesday and Wednesday, Nov. 28 and 29, 4-6 p.m. for amateur actors aged 8-13 at The Dalles Civic Auditorium.

Interested children should be prepared to tell us about themselves, give a short monologue (1-2 mins), sing a short song (no music, one verse), answer a question from a panel, and echo back a few musical notes. All cast members will be chosen from auditions. This is a 12 week program with rehearsals beginning in January, and performances scheduled March 1,2,9 and 10. Rehearsals will be held every Sunday from 1-4 p.m. and Tuesday and Thursdays from 4-6 p.m.

No experience is necessary, but you must like having fun, working hard, singing, dancing, acting, and meeting a bunch of new friends. The cost for the entire program is $100 per kid. Scholarships are available (sibling discount). Our children’s theatre is an equal opportunity program, and we encourage children with developmental or learning differences to audition. Theatre ignites children’s creativity and imagination. Magic happens when kids do theatre!

For additional information or to register your child, please contact Director Gail Farris at 360-880-6642.

Ellen Taylor Painting Workshop

The Hood River County Library presents an Ellen Taylor Painting Workshop on Saturday, Dec. 2, starting at 11 a.m. Sign up is required:

https://hoodriverlibrary.as.me/schedule/0525b24d/appointment/54959282/calendar/5146566?categories%5B%5D=Adult+Programs

About the artist

Ellen Taylor has expressed that her art “…comes from visions, feelings, life, death, turmoil, new birth, and illness, relationships, and the history of life." The perfect balance comes from finding the time to articulate, create, and balance all, or, some of this, into her busy life. Ellen lives on the Umatilla Indian Reservation. She is from the Cayuse, Umatilla, Walla Walla, Nez Perce, and Ojibwa Tribes.

Live music at Working Hands

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

Hayley Lynn

Thursday, Nov. 30, Harry Potter Trivia Night, 7 p.m.

Saturday, Dec. 9, Brenna Larson, 7:30 p.m.

Friday, Dec. 1, Hayley Lynn, 7:30-9:30 p.m.

Saturday, Dec. 2, Kyle Glenn, 7:30-9:30 p.m.

Sunday, Dec. 3, Open Mic, 6 p.m.

Live Music at Jacob Williams Winery

Jacob Williams Winery brings local and regional music to the stage at its tasting room in Lyle, Wash.

Celebrating Thanksgiving Weekend with special tasting events and live music.

Saturday, Nov. 25, Kerry Williams, 1-4 p.m.

Sunday, Nov. 26, Megan Alder, 1-4 p.m.

Live Music at The Pines

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

Johnny Franco

Friday, Dec. 1, County Line, 6-9 p.m.

Friday, Dec. 8, The Growlerz, 6-9 p.m.

Friday, Dec. 15, Johnny Franco, 6-9 p.m.

Friday, Dec. 22, Ugly Sweater Holiday Party featuring Brigid’s Crossing, 6-9 p.m.  Grab your ugliest sweater and brightest holiday spirit and head to The Pines for a festive evening of fun featuring live music by the amazing Brigid’s Crossing. There will be prizes given to the Best–er–Worst ensemble. And Happy Hour pricing offered for anyone who dresses up. 

Aaron Meyer Rock the Holidays Concert returns

The12th annual Rock the Holidays Concert with Aaron Meyer returns to Hood River on Sunday, Dec. 10, in the Gorge Room at the Best Western Plus Hood River Inn. Proceeds benefit United Way of the Columbia Gorge.

There will be a kids concert at 1 p.m. and the main concert starts at 4 p.m. Tickets at Waucoma Bookstore, at the door, or at: https://uwcg.ejoinme.org/MyEvents/12thAnnualAaronMeyerHolidayConcertBenefittingUnitedWayoftheColumbiaGorge/TicketSales/tabid/1397480/Default.aspx

Washington State Zine Contest underway

The Washington State Zine Contest is now open for submissions. You must be a Washington resident and entries must be postmarked by March 29, 2024. Prizes will be awarded to a winner in each age/grade group: pre 4th grade, grades 4-6, 7-9, 10-12 and adults of all ages. Follow the link to read the submission guidelines and to fill out the entry form. https://www.washingtoncenterforthebook.org/ws

Maupin Holiday Festival: Merry & Bright 2023

Maupin presents a Holiday Festival: Merry & Bright on Sunday, Dec. 3, from 1-5 p.m. at the Southern Wasco County Library.


Gather family and friends and join the community for the Maupin Holiday Festival: Merry & Bright 2023. During the event, kids and families can make holiday crafts at the Library. Santa will arrive at 2:30 p.m., and kids can visit and take pictures in the North Pole.

Buy a cup of hot chocolate or mulled wine on the patio and receive a free commemorative mug. Nonprofits, businesses, sports teams, or groups of friends can join the lamppost decorating contest for a chance to win $250. There will also be carols, Christmas music, and warming stations in the park. The event culminates with the traditional Christmas Tree lighting ceremony at 5 p.m. We hope you'll join the community for this festive event. Thanks to Wasco Electric Co-op for brightening our holiday season with their sponsorship of this event. For more information, contact City Hall at 541-395-2698 or cityhall@cityofmaupin.org

Kathryn Claire at UCC Church

Kathryn Claire’s seasonal winter show comes to The Dalles UCC Church on Saturday, Dec. 2, at 7 p.m. Claire, along with musicians Don Henson and Sid Ditson bring original music celebrating the winter season - critics say the music is “stunning, joyful and heartfelt.” Tickets are $20 available at

victorjohnson@victorjohnson.com

About the Artists

Winter Songs is a show inspired by the season with music to honor the shortest days and longest nights. Weaving together songs, instrumentals, traditional and original music and a few covers, Kathryn Claire invites the audience to join together in celebration of the season. Kathryn Claire has been doing a seasonal winter show since 2013 working with a variety of artists. In 2018, Don Henson joined her for Winter Songs on piano and percussion before incorporating Sid Ditson on violin and viola in 2019. The blend of this trio is stunning and their energy together is joyful and heartfelt. Having taken the past two years off due to the pandemic, Kathryn, Sid and Don reunited last year and released an EP featuring music Kathryn wrote specifically for the show along with a single “Dark of December”. This trio is thrilled to be playing the UCC Church this year for their first show in this lovely space.

‘Illumination’ at 301 Gallery

The November show at 301 Gallery in Hood River focuses on art for gift giving with an Illumination theme, promising art to “bring light to the winter dark, and can resonate over years, such as ceramics and jewelry to painting and photography for the holiday season.

Happy Hour Comedy at HR Elks

The Hood River Elks presents Happy Hour Comedy Open Mic, every Wednesday at 8 p.m. “Comedy is the best medicine! Come get your dose. Get out of your comfort zone and get on the Mic, or just support your friends and your ab muscles by laughing at our jokes.”

Hapa Hillbillies at Hood Crest Winery

Hood Crest Winery in Hood River welcomes The Hapa Hillbillies every Monday night from 5-7 p.m. Come dance the night away with blues and more.

Heritage Quilt exhibit at History Museum of Hood River County

The History Museum of Hood River County presents a Heritage Quilt exhibit opening on Wednesday, Oct. 18, from 6-9 p.m. In this final exhibition of the 2023 season, come experience the stories told by Hood River County's heritage quilts and learn about the care of antique quilts with a Hidden History lecture hosted by our Executive Director, Anna Goodwin. Admission is free with suggested donation.

About the event

No two quilts are the same. As handmade works of art, each piece is completely unique on the surface. But beyond that, the originality expands, growing to include the person who made the quilt, how they made it, why they made it, and the journey it has traveled as it passed from generation to generation. Exhibit runs through Dec. 30.

Team Trivia Night at The Ruins

The Ruins in Hood River announces a new Team Trivia night on most Wednesday nights (check schedule below), at 6:30 p.m. Teams up to six people can play and solo players are encouraged to attend and join up. Hosted by Julie Hatfield, Team Trivia Night will feature high-quality audio and video projection systems. There will be cash prizes for the best teams and prizes for the worst answer. $5 cover charge.

Mark your Calendar for these Upcoming Team Trivia Night sessions:

Nov. 15, Nov. 22, Nov. 29

Writing Group meets at HR Library

The Hood River Writing Group meets every Wednesday at 3 pm at the Hood River Library. It’s creative writing together - join with fellow writers to work on your craft through prompts and share the results. Facilitated by Patty Kaplan.

Live Music at Last Stop Saloon

Last Stop Saloon in The Dalles presents live local and regional music for the month of September.

Every Monday, Al Hare, 7 p.m.

Every Tuesday, Dave Tallman, 7 p.m.

Every Wednesday, Tyson Huckins, 7 p.m.

Line Dances at Mid Columbia Senior Center

The Mid Columbia Senior Center in The Dalles offers Line Dance Classes Thursday, 1 p.m. starting Sept. 7, $2 donation

Games at Mid Columbia Senior Center

The Mid Columbia Senior Center in The Dalles offers a variety of fun game options this fall:

Mondays at 1 p.m. Hand and Foot Canasta

Mondays at 6 p.m. Poker

Tuesday at 12:30 p.m. Dominoes

Wednesdays at 12:30 p.m. Wii Bowling

Thursdays at 1 p.m. Mahjong

Fridays at 1 p.m. Mahjong

Fridays at 6 p.m. Pinochle

NEW: LINE DANCE CLASSES ADDED: THURSDAYS AT 1 P.M. STARTING SEPT. 7. $2 DONATION.

Live Music at Route 30

Route 30 Bottles and Brew in The Dalles hosts weekly live music events, trivia nights and more.

Monday Night: Musician Mondays

Tuesday Night: Band Jam for House Band Practice (7 p.m.)

Wednesday Night: Useless Knowledge Trivia Night (6:30 p.m.)

Thursday Night: Thirsty Thursday with House Band (7 p.m.)

Friday Night: Karaoke Night (7 p.m.)




New Wine Bistro offers confluence of intoxicating flavors and natural wonder in Lyle

New Wine Bistro offers confluence of intoxicating flavors and natural wonder in Lyle

Coats for Kids: Donate New or Like-New Outerwear for Local Youth

Coats for Kids: Donate New or Like-New Outerwear for Local Youth

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