TWST Blog

Maupin is the last stop on our Central Columbia Gorge TWST of Wasco and Sherman Counties.  About an hour  south of The Dalles, located along both sides of the Deschutes River on Highway 197, this community of 490 residents strong has reinvented itself over the last few years.  Except for a sign that welcomed you to Maupin there was little to notice about this town until the community launched a ‘Main Street’ revitalization project. The town’s folk along with their dynamic Mayor, Denny Ross, created a street fitting for the community that promotes itself as the headquarters for outdoor recreation (white water rafting, wild trout and Steelhead fishing).  Today, this Main Street beckons travelers to visit the shops, pick up needed supplies at the grocery store, grab a bite to eat, or treat the family to ice cream cones.  On this day there we no fewer than forty vehicles lining the street! 

This revitalization has brought 17 new jobs to Maupin.  That would be the equivalent to 20,196 jobs in Portland, and they are advertising for a Chamber of Commerce Assistant Coordinator!
 
The ten folks who came to our meeting represented every aspect of the town.  The Mayor was laser-focused on projects laid out in Maupin’s strategic plan. We had folks representing volunteer fire and rescue for Maupin, Tygh, and South Wasco County.  Parks and Recreation and conservation groups represented their programs. And numerous social services were around the table – agencies serving elders, low-income families, Head Start, health services, theater, arts, and education.  The folks here definitely wear multiple hats.  They kept me so busy I forgot to get a photo.
 
I did remember to pick up the camera while having lunch with Deanna McDowell and Louise Sargent, board president and director of White River Health & Living Canyon Rim Manor.  We enjoyed a scrumptious lunch of sweet potato fries and lamb gyro.  The lamb meat is locally sourced from nearby Imperial River Ranch.
 

Okay that is it for now.  See you next time!