Your voice: April 8, 2026

• reduce to 45% below 1990 levels by 2035, and

• reduce to 80% below 1990 levels by 2050.

Oregon is now seriously off-track to meet these targets, thanks in part to data center operations in the state. How to help Oregon get back on track? A few ideas:

1) We can stop trying to woo corporate entities with economic incentives such as tax breaks for bringing their businesses to Oregon. While this has been a long-standing practice in many places, there is now considerable research showing that this practice creates a net loss for the state/city/county shelling out its financial and natural resources.

What does this have to do with Oregon’s climate goals? PLENTY. Business development and administration that support those goals require money, whether funding energy efficiency and/or low carbon commitments, or launching new entities that bolster climate friendly practices. Where to find that money? Stop giving it away in the first place.

2) We can expect/force entities such as data centers that are carbon-intensive and/or are giant consumers of our natural resources to INNOVATE in order to work in our state and our communities without ruining them. Expecting/forcing innovation (aka expecting the business to solve its own challenges rather than externalizing them) has been critical in addressing other environmental crises. We don’t have to stand around with our hands in our pockets wondering what to do here. The state can and should tell the entity what is allowed, and the entity can either innovate to meet the requirements or take their high-carbon, resource-gobbling enterprise elsewhere. Before your knee jerks about the business going elsewhere (OH NO!!), consider that in its current form, we might be better off without it.

If you have suggestions to make about how to get Oregon back on track with its climate goals, you can email them to OCAC@energy.oregon.gov by 5 p.m. on April 10.

Bonnie New

Hood River 

Vote Gambee

I’m writing in support of Lisa Gambee for Wasco County Commissioner.

During her time as Wasco County Clerk, Lisa developed a deep understanding of how county government works. Just as important, she made herself available to anyone with questions about county processes and spent whatever time was needed helping people understand how elections operate. Whether someone arrived with a simple question or a complicated concern, Lisa met them with patience, clarity, and respect. She understands that trust in government is built one conversation at a time.

At a time when many residents feel uncertain about how decisions are made, Lisa’s approach stands out. She didn’t just talk about transparency — she practiced it. She opened the door, answered the phone, and made sure people left feeling informed and confident that their government was acting with integrity.

That is the kind of leadership we need on the Wasco County Commission. As a former county commissioner, I believe Lisa will bring the same steady dedication to the commission that she demonstrated as Wasco County clerk. I will be casting my ballot for her on Election Day. I hope you will, too.

Bill Lennox

The Dalles

Telling odds

Roughly 28 women have accused the “Coward and Thief” of sexual assault. Thorough and rigorous investigations by the National Institutes of Health and others indicate the percentage of false accusations ranges between 2-8%. Remembering high school algebra II, this is the same problem as choosing beans from a jar, yellow being valid accusations and blue being false accusations. Our real situation is that we have 28 unassociated accusers, thus random and unconnected. Assume three of the 28 are making false accusations, and that’s only 10.7%. The probability of randomly choosing a valid accuser is 89.3%. In two choices, the chances of choosing at least one valid accuser are 92.6%. In three choices, the chances of choosing at least one valid accuser are 97.2%. More than three accusers, the chances of at least one valid accuser are 100%. This alone is evidence beyond a reasonable doubt.

Add to that, Trump publicly confessed to sexual assault on Oct. 7, 2016, on an Access Hollywood bus. In May 2023, a federal jury found he assaulted E. Jean Caroll. The Department of Justice will not release the FBI files of the 13-year-old victim’s evidence of rape. Hence, we can confidently say beyond a reasonable doubt that the “Coward and Thief” is a sexual predator.

The Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCOPA) signed by the United States, China, France, Russia, Germany, and Iran limited Iran to just 300 Kg of 3.67% enriched uranium, and full access and inspection by the International Atomic Energy Agency, which insured at least 12 months would pass before Iran could produce a bomb if they withdrew from the agreement. In May 2018, Trump withdrew unilaterally. Iran at once began enrichment of 7000 Kg to the 60% level. Further, Iran had no motivation to constrain their surrogate terrorist. Oct. 7, 2023, Hezbollah attacked Israel through their defensive wall — shows what a wall is worth! The “Coward and Thief” enabled the Iranian nuclear adventure, participated in joint air attacks, started a full-blown Middle East war, and disrupted the world energy market without even congressional knowledge. His disastrous impulses would disrupt a nocturnal ejaculation!

Terry Armentrout

The Dalles

Support pool

When I moved to Hood River to be near family more than 20 years ago, I was struck by the natural beauty of this place. What I’ve come to value just as deeply are the opportunities our community provides to stay healthy, connected, and safe.

Water safety is close to my heart. I grew up beside a lake, yet never learned to swim as a child. I nearly drowned twice. When I finally learned as an adult, the fear didn’t disappear — it never does. That’s why I’m so grateful every child in our valley has the chance to learn to swim at our pool. Swimming saves lives.

Beyond the pool, walking the Indian Creek Trail, taking Community Ed classes, recovering in the therapy pool, and joining aqua aerobics have all kept me healthy and rooted in this community. These programs and spaces don’t sustain themselves. It’s tempting to assume the beauty of this place — and the opportunities it offers — will simply continue. They won’t without our support.

If you believe these resources are essential to our valley’s well-being, I hope you’ll join me in voting YES on the Parks & Rec levy and bond in May.

Ruth Tsu

Hood River

No Ferguson

This past Saturday, our community gathered in Goldendale for the “No King Ferguson - Save Washington State” Rally — and the turnout was great. From age 17-93, residents stood together, peacefully and proudly, to voice concerns about the direction of our state and the growing sense that every day, tax‑paying citizens are being ignored. The energy was strong, the message was clear, and the community support has been overwhelmingly positive.

Many Washingtonians believe that state leadership has moved in a direction that feels heavy‑handed, and they worry about policies that expand government power while limiting individual freedoms. For those who share these concerns, speaking up is not an act of hostility — it is an act of civic responsibility.

For those who believe a milder approach is all that’s needed, history tells a different story. There has never been a moment in this country’s past when quiet compliance created meaningful change. Every major turning point — from our fight for independence, to the abolition movement, to civil rights — was driven by citizens who were willing to stand up, speak out, and refuse to be ignored. Progress has always come from people who were brave enough to challenge the status quo, not those who handed out hugs and hoped it would fix itself.

What we saw on Saturday was the beginning of that same spirit rising again. People from all walks of life showed up because they believe our beautiful state is worth defending! Join the rebellion — save Washington state.

Erin Hartford

Lyle

Keep protesting

Can you imagine being a person so vilified, so disliked and so despised that you create in your own warped mind the title “Trump Derangement Syndrome” to pigeonhole the millions and millions who take time off work or out of their busy days to protest your very existence? I applaud those brave souls who attended the “No Kings” protests. The people must continue to non-violently protest this grifting pedophile until Congress does its job to remove him from office. As one sign declared, the world’s most selfish man and the president of the United States should not be the same person.

David Michalek

Hood River

See play

I am writing to encourage Columbia Gorge News readers to go see the musical “Ordinary Days,” which has two final viewings at Columbia Center for the Arts on April 10-11. I attended the performance never having heard of the show before and not knowing what to expect. When I saw the dress rehearsal today, I was impressed at how heartfelt, insightful, funny, and emotional the show was.

Against a strikingly simple cityscape set, “Ordinary Days” follows the lives of four young adults living in 2006 New York City. Claire (Cady Ronning) and Jason (Caden Tubbs) have been together for a year. Jason is moving into Claire’s apartment, but somehow, she still feels distant. Deb (Siva Dassel) is working on her grad school dissertation and trying to figure out some important questions (Does she want to be in this city? Does she even like Virgina Woolf?). And Warren (Mack Yasui) is trying to find someone who will really see him amid the bustle of the crowds.

The story’s interweaving characters were brought to life by the very talented teen and young adult actors and singers in director Tay Camille Lynne’s amazing cast! All the singers in the show had strong, impressive voices and narrated their stories with great expressiveness and consideration. Buy tickets at ColumbiaArts.org. You will laugh! You will cry! You will see a cute little dog!

Ivy Collins

Hood River

Yes for pool

Vote YES for pool and community rec programs.

As a kid, I loved going to the pool! And now, as a mom of two preschoolers, I feel a sense of responsibility to help protect the places that make Hood River such a good place to raise kids.

Water safety is a top priority for us. Growing up here means growing up around rivers, lakes and wind. I want my kids — and every child in Hood River — to have access to safe, reliable swim lessons.

But the pool is also pure joy. It’s one of the few dependable rainy‑season activities for young families, a place where kids can move, laugh, and learn no matter the weather. And it’s used by every age group: babies in parent‑tot classes, teens on swim team, adults doing laps, and older residents staying active.

That’s why I’m voting YES on the pool bond on May 19. Our community deserves a safe, year‑round pool that supports health, safety, and connection across generations.

Jodie Gates

Hood River

Sanders for D52

When I first met Hank Sanders over a drink at Farmstand, his passion and energy immediately stood out. He talks fast, leans in when he’s listening, and asks thoughtful, informed questions that make you pause and think, “Wait ... did he really read the minutes from the last three county commission meetings?”

For many of us, these are scary times. America is at war abroad, while here at home, families are being squeezed by rising costs and targeted by policies that harm our neighbors and ignore the realities of our communities.

That’s why the three most important attributes for our next representative are passion, energy, and experience.

Hank brings all three.

His passion is undeniable! He’s a familiar face speaking at rallies, as secretary of Hood River County Democrats, and meeting at Dog River or The Riv with any number of community leaders.

His energy is clear and contagious! Whether you live in downtown Hood River or are the lone house at the end of a two-mile driveway near ZigZag, he has knocked on your door, taken the time to listen, and asked what matters most to you.

And when it comes to experience, Hank has been in the room where it happens. Hank has worked in Salem during a session that passed historic policies that protect our community from Trump: restrictions on ICE wearing masks, restrictions on the sale of public lands, and decoupling our finances from the federal government. He knows how to protect our families from federal overreach.

Hank is part of a new generation of thoughtful, committed activists who are standing up for our community to protect us and to carve a better future for decades to come. I’m proud to support Hank Sanders for State Representative. Vote Hank.

Leti Valle Moretti

Hood River County Commissioner, District 1

Hood River

Vote Brady

When I moved to The Dalles nine years ago, Phil Brady was the first person I met. That introduction turned into a friendship built on working together — on school campaigns, on arts initiatives, and on the kind of community projects that don’t get done unless people roll up their sleeves and show up. Phil has always been one of those people.

As someone who works in real estate, I see firsthand what housing pressure looks like in Wasco County. Families are struggling to find homes they can afford, and workers can’t stay in a community where there’s nowhere to live. Phil understands this — not just as a policy matter, but as a human one. As chairman of the Columbia Gorge Housing Authority, he has helped move forward 130 units of affordable housing in Hood River and another 76 units coming to The Dalles. That is real progress, and it didn’t happen by accident. It happened because Phil does the patient, unglamorous work of bringing the right people together and following through.

That ability to bring people together is what sets Phil apart. I’ve watched him navigate disagreements, earn trust across different communities, and keep his focus on what matters. He listens before he talks, and he treats everyone — regardless of background or opinion — with genuine respect. In a time when so much of public life seems designed to divide us, that quality is rare and it is valuable.

Wasco County has real challenges ahead. We also have a real opportunity. Phil Brady has the experience, the relationships, and the character to make the most of both. I’m proud to support him for re-election, and I hope you’ll join me.

Philip Mascher

The Dalles

Another one

I recently read that a person named Chris Beck has thrown his hat into the ring for Oregon’s 2nd Congressional District. I did some searching and found he is only a recent resident of our district but speaks publicly about living in Portland! His recent address is in Phoenix, Oregon, south of Medford. My question is, “Do we really need a Portland politician with no clue about the needs of rural folks and our concerns?” I saw that a Redditor in Medford caught Mr. Beck’s key website photo, which was labeled as Jacksonville, Oregon, when in fact it was an AI image with cars parked on the wrong side of the street — a pedestrian speed bump was missing — with buildings and lamp posts wrong. He seems to be relying on OLD political credentials from the 1990s. This district is far too important to have a man from Portland, possibly out of touch with the needs of our district, trying to ignite his “out of touch” and potentially misleading (as in the AI photo) career. We need representation from someone FROM our district.

Jan Lowry

The Dalles

 Editor’s note: According to Beck’s federal election filing, his home address is listed as Phoenix, and his campaign has a P.O. box in Portland. Based on his LinkedIn profile, Beck has spent the last several years working abroad, but he worked as an assistant to Gov. John Kitzhaber, a committee staffer for the state Senate Agriculture and Natural Resources Committee and then was elected to Oregon’s House of Representatives in 1997. Columbia Gorge News could not confirm whether the photo referenced was in fact AI.

Not a king

To the “No Kings” protesters: Regardless of how good it makes you feel to participate in the world’s largest group therapy session, the “No Kings” label is about as far from reality as it gets.

Elections have consequences, and the voters spoke clearly in 2024. Trump was ELECTED by a MAJORITY of Americans to do EXACTLY WHAT HE IS DOING! That’s not what a “king” does. A “king” would do whatever he (or his handlers) wanted to do without regard for the wants or needs of the people ... you know, what Biden did. The fact YOU don’t like Trump’s policies (or demeanor) does not change the fact he is doing what he PROMISED to do. That’s how elections are supposed to work, even if they frequently don’t.

The bottom line is he unapologetically puts America first, is enforcing immigration law, against sanctuary for migrant criminals, against birthright citizenship, for voter ID, against men in women’s private spaces and sports, for prosecutors and judges who enforce the law, against “gender affirming” chemical and surgical mutilation of children, for Israel, against Hamas, for crime victims over criminals, for supporting/funding law enforcement, against DEI and CRT racism, for leaving abortion law with the states, against gay literature in school libraries, for a re-militarized military, against expensive inefficient “green” energy, for domestic energy production, against job-killing regulations, for bringing manufacturing back to America, against drug runners, and for destroying Iran’s ability to threaten the world with nuclear weapons.

The fact that YOU are on the wrong side of those issues, and unhappy about that, does not mean Trump is a “King.” Quite the opposite. Donald J. Trump will be your duly elected PRESIDENT until Jan. 20, 2029. Get over it.

Steve Hudson

The Dalles

Real cost

What does living under a Republican administration, with its policies and authoritarian actions affecting everyday people, really do to American society? When you start adding things up, it becomes apparent that their way of running the country is hurting us — the great majority of the U.S. — and only benefiting the rich and certain corporations.

A few examples: cutting funds and tax credits, leaving millions of Americans without affordable health insurance; reducing SNAP/food stamps, affecting seniors and children; illegal tariffs that have raised prices on many products and contributed to inflation, as well as interrupted markets for American farmers; VA mental health staff reduction for vets in need; fewer Forest Service staff to be able to manage and fight wildfires; and stripping away IRA tax incentives for solar and clean energy. We pay for the wealthy tax cuts Republicans passed.

Now, Republicans want the SAVE Act on the basis of alleged fraud when all states have shown repeatedly that there is none and that voting registration is carefully monitored. One of SAVE Act’s provisions of having to show a passport or birth certificate to register prevents millions of eligible Americans from voting.

Also disturbing is finding that DHS has posted this message with a picture on social media: “The peace of a nation no longer besieged by the Third World,” followed by “America after 100 million deportations,” with the image of a beach and ocean with tree and car parked. This is a federal department that seems to be advocating for the removal of all non-white people in the U.S., citizens and immigrants alike.

It’s time to truthfully ask ourselves, “What kind of government do we have if this is how we, the people, are treated?” It appears this Republican government is far from what our founding fathers created 250 years ago and put into the Constitution, as they warned against an authoritarian or king-like leader undermining liberty and freedoms.

We threw off an oppressive regime then; it’s in our hands to do it again by organizing and voting for who really serves the interests of us, the people.

Steven Woolpert

White Salmon

Support Gambee

To our neighbors and fellow Wasco County residents,

As residents of Wasco County for almost 50 years, and through our many decades of serving on various local boards, we’ve gained a firsthand understanding of the complexities of our county. We strongly support Lisa Gambee for Wasco County Commissioner.

A proven entity we can trust: In politics, promises are easy. With Lisa, we don’t have to guess how she will lead because she has already served us as our county clerk for almost 10 years. The clerk’s office requires absolute accuracy, transparency, and fairness — and Lisa mastered that role. Because she has been in the trenches of our county government, she makes decisions grounded in experience, NOT in politics. She understands exactly how the “system” affects our daily lives and where improvement is possible.

Focusing on a resilient future: Lisa is interested in addressing the real needs of our communities, not just the latest “trendy” project. She is dedicated to making Wasco County more resilient. Whether you live in The Dalles, Pine Grove, or somewhere in between, Lisa has been there, and she has listened. Having a residence in Tygh Valley for 28 years, she has a lived perspective on our rural areas and knows that practical solutions matter more than flashy headlines.

A calm, honest voice: Lisa is remarkably calm and collected. She handles high-pressure situations with a level-headedness that invites collaboration rather than conflict. She is honest, straightforward, and listens more than she talks. She will hear our voices and our needs.

The bottom line: Lisa Gambee doesn’t need a “learning curve.” She’s already earned the trust of the citizens she served. Based on our own experience in local leadership, we know a steady hand when we see one. Lisa is the real deal — experienced, local, and honest. We hope you’ll join us in voting for her. 

Dennis and Mary Beechler

Tygh Valley

Impressed by ‘Ordinary Days’

I had the pleasure of watching a dress rehearsal for the production of “Ordinary Days,” which opened last weekend ago at the Columbia Center for the Arts, and WOW. We are so fortunate to have a wonderful theater here in the Gorge, but this production is really something special and worth seeing. The show itself revolves around a group of four people living in New York City, but in a larger sense, it’s a moving tribute to human relationships — the kind that life gives us, from love to unexpected friendships. So, it’s a fun show that ranges from the serious (even weepy) to the really funny. What really impressed me, though, was the caliber of the performances, all teens and young adults with a talent and professionalism that rivals anything you might see elsewhere. The main cast of four manage beautifully to carry a narrative entirely in song (and with beautiful voices) that translates emotions so convincingly that I found myself transfixed by their characters and experiences as I watched. It was clear that they and everyone connected with the production put their hearts into it. The show is so clearly well directed (including the musical direction), and the four main cast and extras move seamlessly with each other for the hour and a half they perform. I encourage everyone to go see it and support this amazing group of young people!

Jennifer Munroe

Hood River

For Osborn

BREAKING: You have the power to help flip House District 52 from red to blue. David Osborn is a fighter for working people and strong communities. His accomplishments and endorsements are a mile long (osbornfororegon.com). If you vote for David Osborn on May 19, he will win the election on Nov. 3, and that will be a win for every Oregonian.

Suzanne Steffen

Mosier

‘More than a facility’

Over the past year, I’ve found myself spending more time at our local pool than I ever expected.

What began as a simple routine, swimming laps, has become something much more meaningful in my life.

There’s a rhythm to the place: early mornings, familiar faces, the sound of water, the discipline of showing up. It’s one of the few spaces where people of all ages share the same environment, each for their own reasons, but together nonetheless.

I’ve watched young swimmers build confidence, high school athletes push their limits, and longtime regulars show up with consistency. That kind of shared space is rare, and it matters.

For me, it’s grounding. Time in the water has a way of clearing things out, physically and mentally. It’s simple, but it stays with you.

In a place like Hood River, where water is such a defining part of our landscape, having a space where people can safely learn, train, recover, and connect feels essential.

Over time, I’ve come to see the pool as more than a facility; it reflects who we are. I’m voting YES on the pool bond in May, and I hope you’ll join me.

Carl Blakeslee

Hood River

Sanders endorsed

As I was proud to represent Hood River and the other mountain communities for over a decade in the Oregon Senate, I am equally proud to endorse Hank Sanders for House District 52. I always told folks this was the most beautiful district in Oregon, and the people living there take great pride in their community. They deserve their representative in the Oregon House to share in that pride and commitment, and I am convinced Hank does as well. Hank has learned the value of listening more than talking and getting to the heart of issues, traits he honed as a journalist for both the Chicago Tribune and New York Times before returning to his home state of Oregon. Having grown up in a rural community himself in Gaston, Hank understands the needs of rural communities. His work as legislative staff in the Oregon Senate this past session has helped him understand the process first hand, and how to get things done. I believe he will serve all of the residents in the district with energy and commitment, giving the Gorge the voice in Salem it deserves.

Rick Metsger

Salem

‘Blown away’ by play

I had the wonderful opportunity to sit in on a preview of “Ordinary Days,” which will begin showing at CCA Friday, April 3, and recommending that you go see it is one of the easiest things I have ever done. I am grateful that we live in an area with such a love for the performing arts, but I am still constantly blown away by the talent on display. These young adults and kids have absolutely nailed the show, and their productions will be a new staple of live entertainment in the Gorge for as long as they continue to strive for the excellence that was on display during their preview rehearsal.

I look forward to seeing them again during their opening night preview, hopefully with a full house that can laugh, cheer, and cry as the story of two lovers and two unlikely friends navigate their relationships with New York City as their backdrop.

Justin Danner

Hood River

Mayor for Gambee

I am supporting Lisa Gambee to become our Wasco County Commissioner. She is familiar with South Wasco County issues, which is appreciated. She lives in Tygh Valley, she is in South Wasco County and understands the issues we face: aging infrastructure, limited resources and increasing demands on local leaders and volunteers.

She has attended Maupin City Council meetings to learn about the issue our community faces. She is a member of our garden club.

She believes that communities need steady leadership and support from the Wasco County Commissioners.

As county clerk, she strengthened public trust, worked collaboratively and ensured people had the tools they needed to participate in civic life.

Most importantly, Lisa listens. She knows the best ideas come from the people doing the work: volunteers, small business owners, growers, ranchers, parents and neighbors.

This is why I’m voting for Lisa — because she is a leader who listens. I encourage my neighbors to vote for Lisa as well.

Carol Beatty

Mayor of Maupin

Maupin

‘Fantastic show’

Concerning the local production of “Ordinary Days”:

The design, direction, and vocals have made “Ordinary Days” extraordinary. A fantastic show has been developed here, and it is well worth your time.

Support your local community and have a blast while doing so. I know I did.

Marcos Galvez

Mount Hood Parkdale

‘Little wars’

The other day, the war with Iran being much on my mind, after gurgling aloud a bubble of thoughts, I surfaced, submarine fashion, to recharge my batteries and, not entirely coincidentally, to gasp the following question to my wife: “What do you think?”

What I had shared aloud was more or less the following:

In 1981, the world of war-gaming saw the release of Larry Bond’s rules for a table-top miniatures game that won the H.G. Wells award for excellence in game design. Gentlemen of my age may recall passing a rainy afternoon spent attempting, with a box of metal soldiers known as “Britains,” to force the Khyber Pass that lay between a father’s favorite armchair and ottoman. “Little Wars,” written by H.G. Wells in 1913, is a marvelous book, complete with rules to guide the young at heart in campaigning, militarily, far and wide, which is to say within the well-reasoned confines of a family living room. But I digress.

Bond knew a little something about warfare, having served as a naval officer on a destroyer. In 1989, his rules and scenarios found their way into a computer version of “Harpoon” and thence into the halls of Annapolis and the Naval War College, where it was used as a training model.

The commercial version of the game lacks little for realism, which no doubt accounts for the close collaboration between Bond and Tom Clancy while the latter was writing his well-known “The Hunt for Red October” and “Red Storm Rising.”

“Harpoon” includes dozens of scenarios, 15 or 20 of which address the problem of the Strait of Hormuz, scenarios with names like “Flash Point,” “Retribution,” “Escalation,” “Sons of Islam,” “David and Goliath,” and “The Great Satan.”

Thus, my incomprehension as I uttered aloud: “Why, in the name of all that is holy, did the president not listen to the Joint Chiefs?”

“Because,” my wife answered, “he is an unruly little boy who plays games. When the game does not go his way, he quits, leaving others to cope with his absence.”

Robert White

Mt. Hood-Parkdale

Family first

I might have lost material things that can’t be replaced, but you can’t replace family.

While in the military, I almost lost my life in my river detachment in Ben Luc, South Vietnam, Operation Giant Sling Shot.

I gave love and support to my one son and three daughters, including my late wife. My home and other material items might be gone, but love for my family is NOT.

Trump wouldn’t give up his money or material things because that’s power to him.

I read about and saw what they do in other communist countries, but not in AMERICA, until Trump showed up! Trump will NOT take my country or freedom from me! Only money, and very little!

P.S. Tell somebody to tell Trump to shut up and sit down!

Steven Cochenour

The Dalles

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