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Cost-of-Service Study Results

Rising Costs of Goods and Services Impact the PUD’s Ability to Supply Reliable Electricity By Justin Brock Where the Columbia River takes a distinctive curve lies the community of The Dalles, often described as “the bend in the river” or “the hub of the Gorge.” Residents of The Dalles, along with others throughout Wasco County, […]

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No Man Is an Island

But Some of Them Come Close By Rodger Nichols The official name on government maps is 18 Mile Island, but for more than a century, the land has been known to mid-Columbia residents as Chicken Charlie’s Island. The official name derives from its location 18 nautical miles west of Big Eddy and the historic narrows […]

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Heavy Metal

College Skill Center Offers State-of-the-Art Training Story and photos by Rodger Nichols Robert Wells-Clark is the director of technology and trades at Columbia Gorge Community College in The Dalles. Every day, he works with machines that were the very stuff of science fiction and fantasy in his youth. The college’s skill center is home to […]

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Stay Warm; Use Space Heaters Wisely

Stay Warm; Use Space Heaters Wisely As winter’s icy grip tightens, many turn to space heaters for a quick burst of warmth. These appliances can be lifesavers but pose potential safety hazards if not used properly. To ensure a cozy and fire-free season, follow these essential space heater safety tips. Location, Location, Location Maintain a […]

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Starry, Starry Night

Goldendale Observatory Celebrates 50 Years By Rodger Nichols The Mid-Columbia has a unique attraction in its backyard that is often overlooked in its list of wonders: the Goldendale Observatory. The observatory boasts 1 of the largest telescopes available for public viewing in the nation. It also has an interesting backstory. In 1963, 4 members of […]

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Consider Supporting the Neighbor to Neighbor Program

By Rodger Nichols While the holiday season is full of joy, it also comes with chilly weather. With the cold comes higher heating bills, which can be a struggle on top of the other many demands of the season. For decades, Northern Wasco County PUD has encouraged its customers to be part of the solution […]

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Bridging the Digital Divide in Rural Oregon

Take Q-Life’s Survey For Equitable Internet Access In Wasco County By Rodger Nichols 1 of the hallmarks of a public electric utility is that it works cooperatively with other agencies and entities—cities, counties, port districts, parks departments, school districts and community colleges. 1 of these partners—QualityLife Intergovernmental Agency—needs PUD customers’ help. Known informally as Q-Life, […]

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Working For a Bright Future

World-Traveler Brings His Talents to The Dalles By Rodger Nichols Matthew Klebes was hired as city manager of The Dalles last year. At 36, he was the youngest person to hold the office since the city was founded in 1857. He brings a wealth of experience to the job, including having seen a good part […]

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Good Insect, Bad Insect

Local Extension Office Helps Differentiate Between Native & Invasive Species By Rodger Nichols Invasive species have been a problem since travel across oceans became possible. Some arrived as stowaways. Others were purposely introduced by well-meaning people but resulted in unexpected consequences, such as rabbits and cane toads in Australia, giant African snails in Florida and […]

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Get Ready for Summer

Be prepared to help plants through heat and dry weather As the warmer weather returns, it’s time to evaluate your garden for the upcoming summer. Oregon State University Extension Service experts offer tips for preparing for heat and drought. Water Landscape Strategically Water early in the morning when temperatures are lower. Rather than a little […]