Free commentary: Based upon our roles promoting the strength of the military and protecting U.S. national security, we are concerned that several states that have previously objected to the Administration’s domestic National Guard operations have recently deployed troops to Washington, D.C. We applaud your prudence in keeping the Oregon National Guard out of our capital at this time.

Free commentary: According to the USDA Forest Service, Hood River County is among the Oregon communities identified as having higher wildfire risk. 

Free commentary:  Two hundred and fifty years ago, a group of courageous individuals signed a declaration that would forever change the course of human history. They boldly asserted that all people are created equal and endowed with unalienable rights to life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness.

Free commentary: If the American flag had her own anthem, no offense to the “Star- Spangled Banner,” I think she’d choose “Stand By Me.”

Free commentary: When I was a kid, I read a short story about a boy whose grade-school class was collecting money to help the “poor.” He told his parents, and they gave him an envelope the next morning — told him not to open it.

Free commentary: Here is a proposal for creating an organized method of protecting the integrity of elections in Wasco County and elsewhere.

Free news: The conversation will be on June 25 from 6-7:30 p.m. in the meeting room at the Hood River Library, 502 State St. Light snacks and refreshments will be provided. All are welcome.

NOTE: Free news: Grange members, prospective members, and friends of the Grange are welcome to attend this program. If you’re interested and not yet a member, email info@rockfordgrange.net for an invite and details.

Ever wondered about our letters policy? Read it here in full.

Free commentary: The Columbia River Gorge is one of the most beautiful places in the country, but it is also uniquely vulnerable.