Today The Sentinel continues a multipart series of first-hand accounts from fentanyl users. The information is compiled from a variety of sources, all of whom spoke on condition of anonymity either directly with The Sentinel or through an intermediary. To protect their privacy, names and details that could be used to identify the sources have been altered, though the information about how their experiences unfold is accurate.
Here is a brief recap of key information from previous stories in this series:
• A dose of fentanyl small enough to cover the tip of a pencil can cause death
• The fentanyl high is brief, typically lasting two to three hours
• It takes progressively more fentanyl to get high as the body quickly develops resistance to the drug
• As users increase their fentanyl quantities, the risk of lethal overdose increases
• Withdrawal from fentanyl occurs almost as soon as the high
wears off
• Withdrawal can be physically and emotionally unbearable, leading users to immediately seek additional doses to avoid the pain
• Narcan will save a life in the event of an overdose, but it also instantly initiates painful withdrawal—moreover, according to some user accounts, it doesn’t always work with only one application
• Fentanyl is cheap, usually about the cost of a candy bar— until the addiction has taken root
• A steady supply of fentanyl— enough to forestall withdrawal upon the cessation of the high— ends up costing large amounts of money ~
If you’re not familiar with the TV series “The Walking Dead,” here’s a quick summary: it’s set in Goldendale between the hours of 11:30 p.m. and 6 a.m. and features stories of mindless zombies on drugs being preyed upon by vampire sellers. Like most zombies, these move sluggishly and with one-track thinking; in this case, it’s to get another high. Like all vampires, the sellers make a wanton living by draining the life
out of their victims.
Of course, there is such a TV show, and, of course, it’s not really about Goldendale. It’s a horror series about a zombie apocalypse that ran from 2010 to 2022. But the people who dwell in the literal and figurative darkness of Goldendale at night sometimes refer to its many nocturnal drug denizens as the walking dead. We’ll use that term in this story not to denigrate those who traverse that world but as a symbol of how that world can seem and how few citizens outside of that culture are aware of what goes on.
“It’s an entirely different world,” states Remmy, father of a chronic fentanyl user. His son, whom we’ll call Gordon, is handicapped but nonetheless has been on Goldendale streets by night using and buying. Gordon may be slowly coming back to the light and has shared much information with his father about the nighttime underground.
“People in the day don’t have a clue what life is like in town at night,” Remmy continues. “They can’t imagine the activity, the kind of money that changes
City distributes Lodging Tax funds
RODGER NICHOLS FOR THE SENTINEL
The Goldendale City Council held its last meeting of the year last Monday and covered a half-dozen measures on the agenda in less than 90 minutes. Councilors approved an agreement between the City of Goldendale and Klickitat County on the city’s contribution to the East District Court and agreed that the Klickitat County Emergency Ham Radio service could relocate its antenna to the city watershed property.
The big money item of the evening was the awarding of a contract on the Waste Water Treatment Plant upgrade project. The bid, at $3,278,043.73 from Tapani Construction of Battle Ground, was low enough that the city was able to include two optional packages to the project and still be more than a half million dollars below the engineer’s estimate of $3,791,839.98.
There was more good fiscal news, as Councilor Dave Jones announced that Cypress Creek Renewables, whose application to build a large solar panel farm near Goldendale is pending review by the Energy Facilities Siting Council, is donating $10,000 to the high school swim team, another $10,000 to install solar lighting on the exercise area near the pool, and $30,000 to help fund inclusive and handicapped accessible playground equipment for city parks.
County near top in life expectancy
Life expectancy in the United States has generally been on the rise, with rare exceptions for certain segments of the population. Between 1960 and 2019, the life expectancy of Americans rose by roughly a decade to the age of 79. Greater longevity can be attributed to improved health care such as diagnostic and medical advancements, as well as shifting lifestyle choices including healthier diets and a reduction in rates of smoking and alcohol consumption.
While no one single factor determines the overall health of an entire community, certain socioeconomic and environmental factors such as access to health care, clean air, clean water, and affordable housing, contribute significantly to the general health and wellbeing of the entire population.
Using 2022 County Health Rankings & Roadmaps from the University of Wisconsin Population Health Institute, the website Stacker identified counties with the longest life expectancy in Washington. Life expectancy measures the average number of years from birth a person can expect to live and is calculated based on the number of deaths in a given time period and the average number of people at risk of dying during that period. Counties with unreliable or insufficient data were excluded from the analysis. Mortality data came from the National
The city will also save some money on animal control. The individual who has been doing the job on a part-time temporary basis no longer wants to continue, and councilors will consolidate those duties with those of the position of building inspector and code enforcement. Current Building Inspector Mike Hussey will get an additional $12,000 a year to add those duties, saving the city more than $24,000 a year. The area of biggest concern for the public involves the award of Lodging Tax money to local nonprofits for events to draw visitors to town. As usual, there were requests for more funds than the city had available to distribute. Requests totaled $67,800, but the maximum amount available to the Lodging Tax Committee to award this year was $50,000. Members of the committee said they only awarded $43,800 in order to keep a reserve for unexpected circumstances or perhaps an opportunity for a new event.
Here’s how the funding was divided: The Brighter Goldendale Christmas Committee and Abate of Washington each asked for $15,000 and the committee suggested $7,000 each instead. The Goldendale Pride Event asked for $3,000, and the committee recommended $2,000. The committee approved a full $1,800 request from the Golden-
The Dalles Dam invites
During the month of thepublictoits14thannual January, The Dalles Dam EagleWatcheventonJanu- VisitorCenterwillbeopen ary20from10am to3pm every Tuesday through US ArmyCorpsofEngi- Friday, 9 a m to 2 pm neers park rangers and (subject to weather) Staff partnersfromtheUS For- wm be on-site to answer est Service, Rowena Wild- questions, help people use life Clinic, The Columbia spotting scopes and teach Gorge Discovery Center & basic bird identification Museum and Perch Wildlife Education willanswer questionsaboutbaldeagles and present live demonstrations of other raptor species
Thiseventisfreeandthe siteisaccessibletovisitors with disabilities Visitors
tips Additionally Seufert Park, whichisadjacent to the visitor center, is open dailyfromdawntilldusk
The Dalles Dam Visitor Centerisroughly104miles from downtown Portland
as the bird flies To get to thevisitorcenter,take1-84 are encouraged to bring spottingscopes,binoculars, to exit 87, then go east on andcameras Activitieswill BretClodfelterWay For more information,
ately
bebothindoorandoutdoor so please dress appropri- please contact The Dalles Lock and Dam Ranger If youcantmakeit,bet- Office at 541-506-8475 or ter luck nest time! (Just visitwwwnwpusacearmy mil/Eagle-Watch
FY24Organic TransitionInitiative batchingperiodnow open
The US Department face many technical and (EQIP) NRCS will help Higher payment rates are producers adopt the new available for underserved
TransitionInitiative
The Organic Transition financial assistance (FA) supports conservation Initiative is a USDA and technical assistance practices required for initiative that provides (TA)tofarmerschoosingto organiccertification
financialassistance(FA)and
of Agriculture’s Natural marketchallenges Resources Conservation including beginning, veteran, and limited resource farmers andranchers To apply, and for more information on EQIP contact your local NRCS Field Office You can also
The Organic Transition organic management producers Service in Washington Initiative provides funding standard, which allows socially disadvantaged, (NRCS-WA)isnowaccepting to support producers flexibility for producers applicationsfortheOrganic transitioning to organic to get the assistance and production by providing support they need It
implement a new organic technical assistance (TA) managementstandard for conservation practices
Eligibleproducersinclude farmers, ranchers, forest The Organic Transition landowners, and other getmoreinformationabout that support organic Initiative furthers USDA’s producers beginning or in the Organic Transition production While NRCS objective of developing theprocessof transitioning Initiativeatfarmersgov/ accepts applications year- diversefood systems while to organic certification round, eligibleapplications encouraging climate-smart receivedbyJanuary19 2024 agriculture by focusing will be batched and then funds on transitioning rankedforconsiderationof producers to organic production This initiative
Before crops can be dedicates financial and certified organic, farmers technical assistance to a must carefully manage new organic management their land without using standard prohibited inputs like NRCS is dedicating synthetic pesticides for fundingtoassist producers 36 months During this with a new organic transition period and management standard during thefirst years after under the Environmental certification,farmers often QualityIncentivesProgram
G OLDENDALE ’ S A TTIC
This week’s Goldendale’s Attic Mystery Picture
If you needed dehydrated alfalfa meal back in the day, this looks like where you’d go to get it. (We must confess that some—okay, one—on the Sentinel staff didn’t even
realize alfalfa could be dehydrated. Does that mean you just add water?) So who are these guys? What was the occasion? Where and when was the picture taken? Beats us.
All we know is that this picture ran in The Sentinel sometime, lost in the annals of yesteryear. If you know anything about it, please drop us an email (info@goldendalesentinel.
com), or give us a call (509773-3777), or drop in at the office—and remember, you’re welcome to come in and take a look at the original photograph.
Last week’s Goldendale’s Attic Mystery Picture was of a well-known couple, Art and Harriet Wickman, and their son Jeff. Though many people could identify them, only Larry Hoctor was able to put a timeframe on it, saying
Points to ponder:
December 18, 1913 – 110 years Ago
Edison Wax records are now sold cheap at the Book and Music Store on Main Street. Two-minute records are 25 cents each, and four-minute are 35 cents each. With a thin sheet of ice on the pavement on these brisk mornings, quite a few contortionists have been developed who never realized their talents along that line. Some of the horses fear the slippery places and walk along very gingerly.
December 17, 1953 – 70 Years Ago
Small Farm on a good road for sale, 80 acres, half in good alfalfa. Some irrigation rights. Lots of water. Excellent small home. Barn, machine shed, cellar, chicken house, and other outbuildings. Neat as a pin, $8,800. Some day you will kick yourself if you don’t snap this up. It is the best buy of the year. Larsen Real Estate.
December 24, 1953 – 70 Years Ago
Opened to public travel after an impressive dedication service last Friday, the new four million dollar The Dalles bridge serves as an important link between Klickitat County and Oregon. Built in nine months, the bridge represents years of planning and groundwork. It was dedicated to W.S. Nelson, manager of The Dalles Chamber of Commerce for 35 years.
December 24, 1953 – 70 years Ago
Dear Santa: How are you, Santa Clause? Will you please bring me some guns for Christmas? Hope you are well. Have a very Merry Christmas. David Counts.
Dear Santa: I hope you will bring me a set of tools and a gun, a pair of tennis shoes, an airplane and a pair of overalls. Terrance Atkins.
Dear Santa: I love you – Please bring me a bike with back wheels on it. I love you, Santa Claus. Ginny Ledbetter. P.S. Please bring my Daddy a new shirt and Mommy a new skirt. Thank You.
November 24, 1983 – 40 Years Ago
Debbie Erland joins Jean Granum in the front seat of Goldendale Fire Departments antique fi re engine for a fi re truck birthday ride through the streets of Goldendale courtesy of Goldendale volunteer fi reman Keith Silen. The birthday-ride gimmick is part of a fundraising effort to collect monies for the refurbishing of the department’s old fi re engine as well as for purchasing a trailer for hauling the old engine around to community functions in Klickitat County. Debbie and Jean were fortunate enough to be companion riders on the fi rst of such rides as their birthdays fall on the same day.
December 16, 1993 – 30 Years Ago
This week the Little Red Hen, a health food store owned and operated by Shirley Montanye, in downtown Goldendale, celebrates being open for business for 20 years. Montanye started her business, called M & M Enterprises, out of her home in 1973 with three cans of storage food and a business license. She ground wheat into flour and baked it into bread and sold flour mills. She changed the name of her business to Little Red Hen in 1974 because her business reminded her of the story of the Little Red Hen. Who would make bread and along every step of the process would say, “Then, I’ll do it myself.” She moved her business to Highway 97 in 1978 and moved to her present location at 107 W. Main Street in 1992.
—Richard Lefever Klickitat County Historical Society
Plan to save Maryhill church voiced – May 29, 1969
Part One.
The following story, written by a daughter of one of its builders, tells the history of the beautiful little white church that so long has attracted the admiration of visitors to the town of Maryhill. Also included are little bits of history of the settlement, originally called Columbus, which has always been important to Goldendale and the central part of Klickitat County. Mrs. Lois Henderson Plotts’ story reads as follows: There may be some remaining churches in the State of Washington older than the one at Maryhill, but none more beautiful than that one once was. All who have passed through the community, who appreciate perfection in symmetry and proportion, and all the children who grew up in its vicinity, regard the old building as an esthetic and historical treasure which should be cherished and preserved. We, in the West, have need to guard with diligence the remaining investments which our pioneering forefathers left to us.
Many of us older men and women, who lived around Maryhill when we were children, remember the days when he little white church housed a large and active congregation; when the tones of the silver bell could be heard far across the river and for miles up among the hills, as it called the righteous to services. Three times it rang every Sunday; for Sunday School and regular church in the mornings, for Young People’s meeting in the evenings. At midweek there were prayer services and frequently weeklong revival meetings. On special days we always had programs when the adults, some of whom had really fine voices, sang and the
children, dressed in their best, spoke recitations or enumerated the books in the Bible.
The building itself, located picturesquely where the road from the hills enters the fl at land and facing the river, with its tall belfry tower and spire shining in the sun, was an inspiration to us and the very center of community life. So it had been to several generations of devout, devoted self-sacrificing men and women before us.
Now the old building stands in a terrible state of disrepair; its windows all broken, its roofl ine sagging, its lovely bell and beautiful hand-carved pews gone; its belfry tower open to the rain and the home of countless pigeons whose droppings cover the vestibule several inches deep. A few years ago a man even came to town with an order to burn the structure lest its sagging rafters or bell tower fall and someone be injured. However, Irwin Robison was able to dissuade the man from his intention so the order was not carried out.
All of this neglect and desuetude came about through no fault of the people now living in Maryhill, but rather through an unfortunate series of mistakes and misunderstandings, and in spite of continued efforts by the residents to regain ownership.
The history of the church, its rise and fall, is tied in so closely with the rise and fall of prosperity in the community, that only highlights may be recounted here.
The site of the town, fi rst named “Columbus”, was platted around 1860 by two men who owned all the land down on the flat: Amos Stark and George Hickenbottom. Blocks and streets were laid out and the streets named.
this is what Jeff looked like when they graduated in 1978. We believe the location is the Catholic Church, and the plaque behind them is for the Knights of Columbus. The occasion remains a mystery, however.
The Zen master said to the hot dog vendor, “Make me one with everything.” So the hot dog vendor fi xes a hot dog with the works and hands it to the Zen master, who pays with a $20 bill. The hot dog vendor takes the bill, puts it in his cash drawer, and closes the drawer. “Where’s my change?” asks the Zen master. And the hot dog vendor replies, “Change must come from within.”
The old “History of Klickitat, Kittitas and Yakima Counties” state that in 1862 Columbus was the only town in the county “which could lay claim to any business enterprise. It had a store, a butchershop, a blacksmith shop, a hotel and several other small businesses.”
The Hickenbottoms and other religious leaders in that early community were strong Methodists so it seems strange that the small denomination of First Day Advent Christians could gain a foothold and remain the dominant church in the community. It came about in this way. In the year 1872 Amos Stark succeeded in persuading 11 of his relatives to join him in the land he had come to love. They were his brother, Benjamin, his sister Lucy Ann Henderson with her husband Joseph and their six children, and his half-sister Ellen Stark. Back in the rich lands of Johnson County, Indiana, they had all been converted from their family faith of Presbyterianism by ministers who preached the imminent coming of Christ and called themselves First Day Adventists. The Starks were a strong-minded and determined lot. No sooner had they arrived than they set out to save the souls of their neighbors, of the new settlers and of the Indians who periodically lived in teepees on the banks of the river. Of course a rivalry arose immediately between the Methodists and the Adventists.
The Methodists were fi rst to erect a church building. It stood on the south side of Main Street in the western end of town beyond the old store. The Adventists for 15 years could only hold services in their homes or in the open groves. It was not until 1888 that the congregation, with the help of other Adventist groups over in the (Yakima) valley, grew strong enough to begin plans for their own house of worship. Amos Stark donated the four lots on which the church was to be build, and it was said, hauled all the lumber from a mill back of Goldendale. Each trip took two days and there were many trips. Who developed the plans for the church is not known, though perhaps it was Dr. Chapman. Whoever it was, the simplicity of the design bespeaks artistry. The carpenters who built
the church were Benjamin Stark, Amos Stark, Joseph Henderson and a Mr. Hope, also Dr. William Chapman. Dr. Chapman, a medical doctor, was also the fi rst pastor. The church was built in October 1888 and the date put on the window by W. L. Sanders. The pews were built by hand by Ben Stark and the fancy scroll work was cut out by Dr. Chapman who also did some of the carpentry on the pulpit. The building was put up by donations and the carpenters donated their labor.
The fi rst bell was too small and was sent back and the bell which was installed was said to contain silver which perhaps gave it its clarion tone. Though the people of Columbus and the surrounding area were all poor in worldly goods they were rich in happiness and virtue and the town continued to grow. The peak of its prosperity was reached as the SP&S Railroad was being built down the very center of town. I remember that during that period we had the post office, three general stores, a hotel and two restaurants, several office buildings for the railroad officials, three teachers for our school, the two churches, a ferry to Biggs, making many trips by day and night, two saloons and even a house of ill-repute. Soon we had a new depot which became a congregating place for the young people on Sundays when it was “train time”.
After a few years, when the railroad was completed, came Samuel Hill, “The Great Road Builder”, to buy out all the farmers on the hills from the present Maryhill Museum eastward to where the shellrock of Juniper Mountain reaches out to meet the edge of the bluffs. Though Mr. Hill expended many thousands of dollars in our area on his various projects, his coming was the beginning of the deterioration of our community. So many families moved away in the summer of 1909 that our school dropped from 54 pupils in June to 20 in September. It was through Mr. Hill’s influence that the town’s name was changed from Columbus to Maryhill. For the next eight years Mr. Hill’s activities and the people he brought with him to live in or to visit the Meadow Lark Inn, were the center of interest of the local residents.
To be continued.
OpiniOn
Getting to know EMS services in the county
Klickitat County EMS District No. 1, or KCEMS1, is your ambulance service in Klickitat County. We are represented by the International Association of Fire Fighters or IAFF, local 5172. Here in Klickitat County, we have 18 full-time employees when fully staffed and several part-time paramedics and EMTs. We operate three ambulances throughout the county 24 hours per day, 365 days a year. We also have a fourth ambulance that is currently being staffed when possible and utilized to fill in when needed. We serve a population of approximately 23,000 residents with a seasonal surge in the spring and summer months, over approximately 1,900 square miles excluding Bickleton and Alderdale. We have an administrative board that consists of five Directors, who volunteer their time, and a fulltime, paid Chief of Operations and finance administrator.
Historically, up until 2014, the two county hospitals managed and operated the ambulance services in Klickitat County. Due to the high cost and challenges of running and maintaining an ambulance service, the hospitals decided to have the county take over this responsibility.
In 2014 our EMS district was formed by the county commissioners and funded by the voters of Klickitat County. KCEMS1, now a separate agency, independent of the two hospitals, provides EMS services to the citizens and visitors of Klickitat County.
KCEMS1 is the primary provider of Advanced Life Support ambulance services in Klickitat County. We work closely with the volunteer fire departments, air ambulance services, search and rescue volunteers, and law enforcement agencies when responding to medical emergencies and we provide rehabilitation services to firefighters at active house fires. We provide transfer services (Inter-facility transfers) for patients from our local hospitals to hospitals that provide a higher level of care. When possible, we attend school sporting events, rodeos, and other community events needing ambulance coverage. In addition, KCEMS1 provides ongoing training to the county’s local EMS volunteers and offers CPR classes.
There are three EMS stations, located in Goldendale, Dallesport, and White Salmon. Each station covers a set area of the district. However, when one ambulance responds to a call or takes an Inter-facility transfer, the other ambulances may move their location to best serve the district as a whole. You will often see us posting for coverage at the SR97 and SR14 junction, in Lyle, at the Avery viewpoint, or at other locations that provide the best response times to emergencies. We also have partnerships with agencies in Hood River County, Skamania County, and Wasco County for additional Advanced Life Support services.
We are grateful for the tremendous community
THE GOLDENDALE SENTINEL
Official newspaper of Klickitat County, Washington
Established 1879 • Published every Wednesday from offices at 117 W. Main Street • Goldendale, WA 98620 • Telephone: (509) 773-3777
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Editorial:
Lou Marzeles, Editor & Publisher
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Owned by Tartan Publications, Inc.
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support we have received over all these years of transition and look forward to serving in the years to come.
Burn-out has got to go
The Festival of Wheels gave it another try this year. It seems the attendance has dwindled to much lower levels than when the event was new, 10 years ago. There are a lot of competing car shows this time of year, so it doesn’t surprise me . This year Goldendale Motorsports Association and ABATE brought back the burn-out, which was tried several times in the past with questionable benefits to the town. This year someone had the brilliant idea to use the old skateboard park as a place to stage the return of the burnout. It was held on the concrete slab, a tempting medium for anyone inclined to bum rubber. Rednecks of many degrees, punk kids or maybe the little old lady from Pasadena. I personally was left with a bad taste in my mouth and lungs. Even though I made it a point to stay away from the burn-out and was at my home where I thought I would escape the noise and smoke, when the toxic cloud rose from the park and drifted over the Little Klickitat River Park (the swimming pool) on to the kids and families at the pool and on to me while I was sitting on my property. We were contaminated by the toxins in the smoke, and my eyes and throat were imitated, and my lungs filled with carbon monoxide and other cancer causing toxic compounds
for three hours.
I think the city of Goldendale needs to rethink supporting burnouts in our park. Next year don’t issue a permit to any group that wants to burn-out. There are places in the county where it could be held, just not in the city please. I hate toxic smoke, and you should too.
On Sept 4 I will be asking the mayor and his administration to make an ordinance forbidding anyone from reckless unsafe burnouts in any ones neighborhood or any street in the Goldendale city limits. I would appreciate some support from like-minded citizens at the council meeting. Let them know how you feel.
Ken McKune Goldendale
C
I recently received an updated “Terms for Business and Deposit Account Agreement” from Columbia Bank. I am not in the habit of reading the fine print but for some reason this time I did. I came across an “added” line that I found very concerning. Again, this line is both for personal and business accounts. It reads: “We may refuse to open and account and may close your account at any time for any reason or for no reason at all.”
“For No Reason At All” I particularly found offensive.
Guidelines for Letters
I contacted the bank for an explanation. The answer was essentially that “we wouldn’t do that.” Then why is it in your documents, I asked. The answer was to send me up the chain of command. The second person gave the same answer as the first and then was to have me contacted by some-one higher up. That person has not contacted me after more than a week so I am following through on what I told the bank contacts I was going to do—write a letter to the editor to be sure local folks are aware of how Columbia Bank is choosing to deal with its account holders.
My concern is that a comment as broad as this opens the door for abuse. I have had no difficulties with our local branch and am sorry that the headquarters has decided to take such a hard line. It ap-pears I will need to look for a bank that does not behave in this manner.
Ken Margraf Goldendale
Letters to the editor should be original and comment on an issue. Deadline for letters is noon Monday for the same week’s paper.
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People on Christmas break back in town
The lack of news this week tells me everyone is busy enjoying their families and their time off from school. All is peaceful in Glenwood. On December 19, the Klickwood boys basketball team hosted Thorp in the Glenwood gym. The games were fast-paced and exciting. Klickwood won both the JV and the Varsity games in front of a full audience. Way to go, Klickwood. Keep it up. Meanwhile, The Trout Lake Mustangs girls with our three Glenwood players on the team are still on a great winning streak. As of last week, the Trout Lake girls were ranked 6th in the state (Oregon) in the 1A division. Way to go, Mustangs. At halftime of the varsity game that night, we were all entertained by the peewee basketball team. It was very evident that coach Dakota Jones, with assistance from Jake Eldred, has been teaching these little kids some good basketball skills and strategy. It was fun
to watch those little kids, kindergarten through 4th grade, playing hard. Who cares who won? It was all about getting out there and having fun. Thank you, Dakota and Jake, for giving your time to these little kids.
I have really been enjoying visits with some of our 2023 Glenwood graduates while they’re home on Christmas break.
Landon Sanchey attends Central Washington University. Landon likes his classes a lot and is making a lot of friends. Ally McFall is home from Washington State University–Pullman and also had very positive things to share about her college experience so far. Landon and Ally were Glenwood’s co-valedictorians at graduation, and they’re both continuing to make their families and all of us in their hometown proud with their excellent grades. I know we’ll hear more big news about those two in the near future.
Emilly Molyneaux has been living and working in Idaho. She previously lived there and likes being back where she has a lot of friends. While visiting here, Emily joined Ally as two Glenwood alumni who got up to sing with all the kids at the school Christmas dinner. It was a lot of fun to see them up there.
James Griffin, the sole member of the Glenwood class of 2022, is home on leave from the army. James has trained as an airborne combat medic. He did a stint as a medic at West Point in the summer when the cadets were doing some heavy training. Now he’s stationed at Ft. Bragg, NC with the 82nd Airborne. His family and all his friends are really enjoying his visit before he heads back to his post on January 2. Thank you for your service, James. You are a credit to your family and a great example to other young people for going after the education and training you want while serving your country.
Parents of the Santa Pictures: they are finally done, and you should have received a phone call from Glenda Lovejoy who graciously volunteered to get the photos to the parents with the directions as to where and when to pick them up. This is the message she left on Facebook: “Hi Everyone, I’ve called everyone on the pictures list that was made on Santa Night at the Lyle Activity Center. There is one picture without contact information attached. If you have not yet received a call or gotten a message from me but are expecting a picture of your child with Lyle’s Santa, please call me or text me at (541) 705-5782, and hopefully we can get it all figured out.”
So, parents, the ball is in your court now. Those photos are just waiting for you to pick up. Just think how they will add to the joy in years to come as your child thumbs through the family album.
I understand that the Celebration Center Church in Lyle is responsible for the beautiful backdrop for those photos, and I must say they were great. Best set we’ve ever had and I can tell you for a fact because I was one of the people responsible for getting it started many years ago. Although in the past couple of years my health has kept me from taking the actual photos, my daughter has stepped in and helped when she could. The saying “It takes a village” is true, and I’m here to attest to that. Many hands have worked tirelessly to bring sweet memories to our
village children, as well as the photos to treasure for years to come. The emergency vehicles that have always made sure Santa arrived on time, and the moms who baked cookies and those who set the tables and made the hot cocoa, and probably people I’ve inadvertently left out— yes, it takes a village. And Lyle has so many volunteer residents who furnish everything that creates it. While we are on the subject of Santa, a concerned parent posted this message: “Tell your kids to check their attitude about Santa. They don’t have to believe, but they also don’t have to be the kid who goes to school and tries to destroy other kids’ Christmas magic!”
Of course she was applauded by other parents with the same feelings. Santa is a childhood sacred that should not be destroyed purposely, especially by older bullies.
Mid Columbia Fire Prevention Cooperative has a heartfelt warning about one of those traditions that make the holidays a little more festive for some people. “Candles have a glowing role during the holiday season. They also have a fiery attitude. Don’t let you or your home get burned in their warm glow. Give them plenty of space when they are lit, and don’t forget to make sure they are out before leaving the house or going to bed.” And may I add: pets can add to the danger by knocking them over or bumping things that fall into them. I know I’m paranoid, but I do not have open fl ame in my
home. I’ve had a house burn to the ground floor once, and although it was deemed caused by weather-worn wiring rubbing the roof, I’ve had a fear of fi re ever since.
Patty Elkins, our liaison at the Lyle Fire & Rescue District No. 4 sends a message: All we want for Christmas is that every resident has a well-placed blue address sign! (Help us fi nd you in an emergency.) It’s $20 for a double-sided blue address sign. We make these in-house. We deliver in Lyle Fire District No. 4, or you can pick up. Message us on Facebook, or call us at (509) 365-2500 and leave a message.
The Port of Hood River is happy to continue the toll-free holiday tradition with expanded hours this year. Crossings of the Hood-River White Salmon Interstate Bridge will be toll-free starting at 10 p.m. on December 23 through 6 a.m. December 26. I wonder if they could stretch that into the New Year’s Day?
Submit your news to Mildred E. Lykens, (509) 3652273 or lykensme41@gmail. com.
This Calendar of Events listing is free. Are you in need of an eye-catching display ad to highlight your event? Email us at ads@GoldendaleSentinel.com. Our friendly, helpful staff would love to help you find an advertising package that works for your needs and fits your budget! We offer online ads as well—with about 14,000 unique hits on our website a month, this is a great way to reach even more people.
• Makers Market at The Missing Corner (ON HOLD until further notice) – 1256 Hwy 141 BZ Corner. Every third Sunday from 12 –5 p.m. Contact themissingcorner@gmail.com for more information (will return in April 16, 2023)
• Trout Lake Market
– 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. Trout Lake Grange Hall 2390 Washington 141. 1st Sunday of the month, seasonally through September.
Monday
• Popup Café – 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. lunch and support group at the Masonic Lodge on Columbus until further notice. Café is open weekly on Monday and Wednesday.
• Programs for Peaceful Living Domestic Violence Victim support group via zoom Mondays 10 a.m. 509773-6100 or 509-4931533.
• The Coalition for Preventing Abuse in Klickitat County (CPAKC) 4 p.m. every 2nd Monday via Zoom. 509-773-3776 or CPAKC on Facebook.
• Goldendale City Council meetings 6 p.m. 1103 S Columbus 1st and 3rd Monday of every month except on holidays.
• Book Discussion Group meets every third Monday at 11 a.m. – Goldendale Library
• One on One Tech Help 1st Monday of the month 10 a.m. – 1 p.m. at the Goldendale Library, call to set up an appointment 509-773-4487
• Goldendale School Board Work Session: 2nd Monday of the month at the Primary School Library.
• Goldendale School Board Meeting: 4th Monday of the month at the High School Cafeteria.
Tuesday
• Board of County Commissioners meeting every Tuesday Klickitat County Courthouse, 205 S Columbus Goldendale. Visit https://www.klickitatcounty. org/643/Board-of-CountyCommissioners for informa-
Community Events
• KC Fair Board Meetings 1st Tuesday of the month is a Workshop, 3rd Tuesday of the month is a Board Meeting.
• White Salmon Farmers Market, 4 – 7 p.m. every week seasonally at Rheingarten Park.
• Soroptimist International of Goldendale, 5:30 pm the second and fourth Tuesday of the month. Dedicated to helping women and youth in our community and worldwide. All welcome. Contact Betty 509-250-3746 Wednesday
Council Meetings – 1st Wednesday of the month at 6:30 at the Cherry Lane Fire Station
• Kiwanis 7 a.m. Simcoe Café 1st and 3rd Wednesday of the month.
• Beginning Quilt class 10 a.m. – 12 p.m. call 3C’s Fabric to sign up 509-261-2815
• Pinochle at the Centerville Grange – 1st and 3rd Wednesday of every Month at 1:00 p.m. 228 Centerville
(308 Klickitat). Meetings also available via Zoom https:// lylewa.com/about-us
Thursday
• Drinking Democratically – 3rd Thursday of the month 6 – 7:30 p.m. at Ayutlas in Goldendale
• New Parent Support Group – 10 a.m. weekly 120 W. Stuben at Mugs Café in Bingen. Join us for community support at our weekly meeting at Mugs Cafe in Bingen. We meet in the back room. Children are welcome & encouraged. There is a
school, 12–2 p.m. Dallesport Community Center, 3-5 p.m. Lyle Lions Club. 3rd Thursday of the month: 9-11 a.m. Trout Lake Baptist Church, 12-2 p.m. BZ Corner Community Building. Call 509493-2662 ext 208 for more information.
• Narcotics Anonymous, 7 - 8 p.m. weekly at the United Methodist Church, 109 E Broadway Goldendale Friday
• Bingo – 2nd & 4th Friday of the month, Mt Adams Elks Lodge 124 NE Church Ave, White Salmon. Doors open at 5:30, Bingo at 6 and the Salmon Run Grill is open from 5:30 – 7:30
• Farmers Market, High Prairie: 701 Struck Road, Lyle (between Centerville & Lyle), the 1st and 3rd Friday of the month 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. May – September. Vendors, please contact Josh Harrison, phone: (509)281-0971, email: josh7harrison@gmail. com
• Beginning Quilt Class 5:30 p.m. – 7:30 p.m. call 3C’s Fabric to sign up 509-261-2815
• Knitting and Stitching Circle – 10 a.m. –12 p.m. White Salmon Community Library
• GamerNoon for teens 3 – 5 p.m. at the Goldendale Library. Come play tabletop and board games in the teen area.
• Crafternoons at the Library – every 4th Friday 2:30 – 4 p.m. for ages 7-10 all ages welcome at the Goldendale Library Saturday
• Lyle Lions Pancake Breakfast 1st Saturday of every month 7 a.m. -10 a.m. Omelets and ham and eggs cooked to order. Endless Pancakes. Location: Lyle Lions Community Center 5th & State Street (Hwy 14).
• Columbia Grange meets the 2nd Saturday of every month.
• Goldendale Aglow Lighthouse meets from 2 - 4 p.m. at the Senior Center 3rd Saturday of every month –, 115 E. Main St. Goldendale
tion, agenda, and link for Zoom meeting.
• TOPS Club Inc – Taking Pounds off Sensibly 10 a.m. American Legion. Questions? Sally/ojala@gmail.com
• Goldendale Junior Community Chamber 7 p.m. 2nd Tuesday of every month at Umpqua Bank. Call 509-2500625
• Goldendale Photo Club 2nd Tuesday of Every month 105 West Main 6 p.m. Jeanne Morgan 10-5 M-F at 509-7722717
• Learn and Play! – 2 – 3 p.m. every 4th Wednesday of the month at the Goldendale Library. Fun and learning for you and your little ones!
• Free Youth Cooking Classes: 4-6 p.m. every other Wednesday, beginning Sept. 20th, 2023 – June 2024 at The Harbor 125 W. Main St. Goldendale. Children 13+, come join us at the Youth Drop-In Center for free cooking classes. 509-281-0288 or email cassidy@wagap.org
• Snowden Community
Hwy
• Trivia at the American Legion – every week 6:30 p.m.
• Family Storytime at 10:30 – 11:30 a.m., Goldendale Library
• Popup Café – 10 a.m. –2 p.m. lunch and support group at the Masonic Lodge on Columbus until further notice. Café is open weekly on Monday and Wednesday.
• Lyle Community Council Meetings are the 2nd Wednesday of the month at 6:30, Lyle Activity Center
small play area to keep little hands busy. We’d love to see you there!
• Bingo - Goldendale American Legion Thursdays - card packets go on sale 6:30 p.m. game starts 7 p.m. Food available
• Bingo - High Prairie Community Center, 2nd Thursday of every month, doors open at 6, starts at 6:30. Questions contact Sharon 509-310-9172
• WAGAP Mobile Food Bank – 1st Thursday of the month: 9-11 a.m. Wishram
• 3rd Saturday Dinners –Bavarian Deli 5 – 7 p.m. Local Beef brisket $25
• Family Storytimes 10:30 – 11:30 a.m. 1st Saturday of the month @ the Goldendale Library
Community Events January 20, 2024, Free Community Breakfast: 8 – 10 a.m. at the Goldendale Grange Hall. Biscuits & Gravy, scrambled eggs, and fruit. Come with the family to enjoy a great community breakfast!
Ruby (St. Lawrence) Merritt
Ruby passed away on December 5, 2023, in Portland, Oregon. Ruby was the daughter of William and Etta (Munro) St. Lawrence, a pioneer Klickitat County family. She was born October 5, 1923, in Goldendale and raised on her parents’ farm in the rural community of High Prairie, between the small towns of Lyle and Centerville. She graduated from Lyle High School, Central Washington State College, and the University of Oregon with a MA in Education. She taught school in Battle Ground, Washington, and the Eugene and Portland, Oregon, school districts.
She married Morris Merritt of Portland on August 10, 1947, after he completed Army service during World War II. A homemaker after
1951, she moved with her husband to Fort Sam Houston, Texas, and Baltimore, Maryland, when he was recalled to active duty during the Korean War. Following his fi nal completion of military service, they returned to Portland and later lived in Kennewick, Boise, and Tacoma. They moved back to Portland in 1985 for retirement.
Ruby is survived by two children, daughter Marcie, and son Ron. Ruby was predeceased by her parents and her husband Morris. She was recently interred next to her husband in the St. Lawrence family plot at the Mountain View Cemetery in Goldendale in a private ceremony attended by generations of relatives and family friends with Pastor Kevin Gerchak officiating.
What’s in the Sky
JIM WHITE FOR THE SENTINEL
Welcome to 2024!
Since our winter months are typically short on clear skies, this month I will focus on a repeat of a column I wrote in 2008, regarding the New Year’s Eve dropping of the ball in New York’s Times Square. Have you ever wondered why they herald in the New Year watching a large ball slide down a pole atop a building?
The answer, you might say, is in the stars.
Back to School Bash
Back to School Bash
is coming August 3, & we’re getting ready!
Before the advent of modern technology, the stars provided a way to estimate where you were during sea travel. On the wide, flat ocean, how did sailors know where they were? Knowing how far north or south you were located was relatively easy, particularly in the northern hemisphere. If Polaris, the North Star, was 45 degrees above the horizon, you were at latitude of 45 degrees. If your home port was Lisbon, Portugal, the ship’s navigator knew its latitude was a bit over 38 degrees. Just sail north (or south) until Polaris was 38 degrees above the horizon, and head east on the Atlantic. “Dead reckoning,” rough estimates of location based on time at sea, speed, and other factors were used to estimate east and west coordinates and longitude. But east-west coordinates were definitely an estimate and not very accurate
This Bash is a blast and ALL FREE with food, games, face painting, inflatable bouncy houses, school supplies, and vendor booths. Preparations begin in January.
Goldendale Nazarene Church is grateful to partner with generous community sponsors, both businesses and individuals, who make this fun-filled and much-needed event possible. Donations are tax-deductible.
Call (509) 773-4216 with questions or to find out how you can get involved. Thank you for your continuing support!
Church of the Nazarene, PO Box 1500, Goldendale
The stars could be of help with estimating longitude
There’ s no better exercise!
as well. If a particular star was due south in Lisbon on a particular date, at say 11 p.m., and that same star was 20 degrees east from overhead at your current location in the Atlantic at 11 p.m., you were 20 degrees west of Lisbon. With this information, you could estimate the distance. An instrument called the sextant was developed in the 1700s that accurately measured the angle of a particular star in the night sky. But an accurate clock was essential as well. The more accurate a clock, the more precisely you could estimate your location. It was important enough that England established a prize for development of an accurate clock. A fascinating book, Longitude, covers
that 18th-century effort.
Even accurate clocks, however, needed to be adjusted frequently. Remember, at this time they were all mechanical. On land, clocks could easily be kept accurate. They were set by using known transit times of the sun and stars at their location. But how could you get that accurate time from the port to the ship in the harbor? Remember, no radios or other means of instant communication! A visual sign was key. Time balls, large balls on a tall mast located somewhere in a harbor, were utilized. Ships, when anchored in seaports, would synchronize their timepieces with clocks ashore. Sailors on ships would watch for the time ball to be hoisted up
the pole, usually five minutes before the hour, and synchronize their clocks when the ball dropped.
The New York Time Ball in Times Square was never used as a nautical time ball–it came about in the early 1900s when radio communications phased out the use of time balls. A few time balls still exist, however.
One place where the tradition is carried on is at the U.S. Naval Observatory in Washington D.C., where a time ball descends from a flagpole at noon each day. So there you have it. The time ball in our New Year celebration is a reminder of an age when accurate timekeeping, and an accurate knowledge of the night sky, were critical to worldwide navigation.
BAPTIST
Columbus Avenue Baptist, S.B.C. 815 N Columbus, Goldendale, 509.773.4471; Pastor David Beseler, Sun School 9:45am, Sun Worship 11am, Sun Bible Study 6pm, Prayer Meeting Mon 6pm, Youth & Children's groups Wed 6pm; ColumbusABC.org, YouTube, FaceBook, ColumbusABC@embarqmail.com.
CATHOLIC - Holy Trinity Catholic 307 Schuster, Goldendale; Father William Byron, 509.773.4516. Sat Eve Mass 5:30pm; Sun Mass 9am & 10:30am. Eve of Holy Days 7pm; Holy Days 9am. Daily Mass Mon-Fri 9am CCD Classes Wed 2:15-3:30pm, K thru grade 6; Wed 7-8:30pm grades 7-12. Confessions every other Saturday noon -1pm
Community Grace Brethren 1180 S Roosevelt, Goldendale. Pastor Aaron Wirick. 509.773.3388. Sun Svc 10:30am in person. Wed: AWANA 2pm GoldendaleGrace.com. Watch us on Facebook Live: Facebook.com/GoldendaleGrace "Learning - Living - Loving JESUS."
LUTHERAN
Christ the King Lutheran S Columbus & Simcoe Dr, Goldendale; Pastor David Daugs. 773-5750. Worship services 10am Everyone welcome.
METHODIST - United Methodist Columbus & Broadway, Goldendale; Pastor Kendra Behn-Smith; 509.773.4461. Service times: Worship 9:00am; Adult classes 10:45am; Fall & Winter All are welcome. Call the church for regularly scheduled events.
NAZARENE - Church of the Nazarene 124 W Allyn, Goldendale; Pastor Earnie Winn and Pastor Greta Sines. 509.773.4216; Sunday worship 10:45 ; Sunday School all ages 9:30 ; goldendalenaz@gmail.com.
NEW LIFE ASSEMBLY of GOD 1602 S Columbus, Goldendale; Pastor Kevin Gerchak, 509.773.4650; Sun. School 9:30 ; Morning Worship Service 10:30am; Family Night on Wed. 7pm with programs for ages 3 years through adult. NON-DENOMINATIONAL
RIVER of LIFE CHURCH of GOD 2023 Pipeline Rd, Goldendale; Pastors Rod & Cathy Smith, 509-773-3185, Sunday Worship 10:30am; Wednesday Bible Study 7pm RiverofLife222.org
SEVENTH-DAY ADVENTIST
1/2 mile east on Bickleton Hwy. Sabbath School Sat. 9:30am; Worship Service 11am; Pastor Michael Smith; 509.773.4381
Centerville Community Church 508 Dalles Mountain Road, Centerville, WA 98613; 509-637-3068; Pastor Patti McKern; pastorpatti53@gmail.com; Sunday Worship Celebration 10am "Find refreshment for your soul and friends for your journey."
“A Gospel-Centered Church.”
Father’s House Fellowship
207 S Klickitat Ave, 509.773.4719. Basic Bible Fellowship 9:30am; Worship 10:30am; Tue. 6:30pm Freedom Now Meeting.
HOW IT STARTED: The tradition of the ball in Times Square dropping to mark the
is explained.
hands, the near deaths that happen every night.”
For Gordon and his acquaintances, many nights begin with a visit to a trap house. That’s the term for a place where a seller plies his or her trade. “They call it a trap house,” Remmy says, “because once you’re in, it feels like a trap.” The appellation does not dissuade buyers from visiting. If you’re injured, you go to a hospital. If you need drugs, you go to a trap house. That’s how it works in town. What’s amazing is that Gordon has provided a wealth of names and locations of Goldendale trap houses to local law enforcement. The Sentinel has been given copies of the lists he created; some names would shock—or perhaps not—a lot of people in town. Remmy says law enforcement has not taken action against any of the names even when they were told specific days and times when drug transactions would be taking place. Goldendale Police Chief Mike Smith and Klickitat County Sheriffi Bob Songer tell The Sentinel they have no record of such reports but that they likely would not have been able to act because of lack of probable cause that would stand up in court. Among those in the Goldendale underground, everyone knows each other. They’re neighbors in a dark
CITY from page A1
dale Kiwanis to put on a Golf For Kids tournament. And the Goldendale Chamber of Commerce requested $33,000 and the committee suggested $26,000.
Though most requests were not fully funded, Councilor Filiberto Ontiveros reminded everyone that the money awarded from the lodging tax was only intended to help offset some of the costs, not to fully fund each event.
Councilors approved the measure on an unusual 4
COUNTY from page A1 years (0.6 more than the statewide average)
- Health outcomes statewide rank: No. 20 --- Length of life rank: No. 26 --- Quality of life rank: No. 14 No. 9. Jefferson County - Average life expectancy: 80.9 years (0.7 more than the statewide average)
- Health outcomes statewide rank: No. 12 --- Length of life rank: No. 28 --- Quality of life rank:
3
8. Whatcom County
- Average life expectancy: 81 years (0.8 more than the statewide average)
- Health outcomes statewide rank: No. 7
--- Length of life rank: No. 7
--- Quality of life rank: No. 9 No. 7. Kittitas County
- Average life expectancy:
81.3 years (1.1 more than the statewide average)
- Health outcomes statewide rank: No. 14
world. They tell each other horror stories—“Did you hear about Ruth? She killed herself a few weeks ago.” “Dave went under [overdosed] and got a Narcan up his nose, but it didn’t take; they had to hit him three times with it.” “Sally’s three months pregnant and still using.” If there were a Facebook page for the drug underground, it would be filled with pictures of gaunt faces and comments of bleak and dangerous lifestyles. The walking dead start prowling around 11:30. They aren’t drawn to the lights and noises of Main Street’s busy bars; that’s an entirely different subculture, though there are some barflies known to join the dead after last call. When it’s cold, as it is these days, many of the dead meet on street corners and mingle briefly before jumping into cars or the homes of acquaintances to warm up and prepare for a trap house trip. Trap house transactions tend to be high-alert places wary of strangers or a potential law enforcement drive-by, though they say there hasn’t been a raid on a house in years. Part of the reason for that was the state’s relaxing of enforcement against drug possession, a move Remmy and most in law enforcement call moronic. Current legislation does put some teeth back into the laws.
Once the vampires (as
to 2 to 1 vote. Councilors Loren Meagher and Steve Johnston were the no-votes, and although Meagher did not offer a reason, Johnston said he did not want to support the Goldendale Pride event, saying that it was a culturally divisive issue that had been weaponized.
Councilor Andy Halm, who abstained because he is involved with the Goldendale Pride organizing group, said he and a lot of other people were offended by the comment. It was the last council
--- Length of life rank: No. 5
--- Quality of life rank: No. 22 No. 6. Island County
- Average life expectancy: 81.4 years (1.2 more than the statewide average)
- Health outcomes
statewide rank: No. 3
--- Length of life rank: No. 10
--- Quality of life rank: No. 4 No. 5. Klickitat County
- Average life expectancy: 81.5 years (1.3 more than the statewide average)
- Health outcomes
statewide rank: No. 25
--- Length of life rank: No. 18
--- Quality of life rank: No. 30 No. 4. King County
- Average life expectancy: 82.3 years (2.1 more than the statewide average)
- Health outcomes
statewide rank: No. 2
--- Length of life rank: No. 3
--- Quality of life rank: No. 2
users’ families often call them) have completed their sales, Gordon and the other dead are quick to utilize their purchases. The aim is to start another high as soon as one recedes—otherwise the pain of withdrawal, which happens almost the instant a high ends, is utterly unbearable. Already cognitively constrained by drug haze, they try to calculate how much fentanyl to take without dying. They’ve heard the talk of how easy it is to overdose and die on fentanyl; some discount it as “propaganda” against drugs. For those who take it seriously, they walk the razor-thin line between what it takes to get high again—it’s always a little more because the body builds up resistance— and what it takes to die. It’s Russian roulette with small blue pills.
Come dawn, the vampires retreat to their coffins to wait for dark again. Gordon makes his way home as do the others lucky enough to have roofs over their heads. The remainder melts into homelessness. All hope what they acquired during the night will suffice to sustain them through the day.
The days and nights slip into a blur of semi-consciousness. For the dead, fentanyl and its myriad drug companions form the backdrop of a continually listless, frail existence.
meeting for Councilor Filiberto Ontiveros and Mayor Mike Canon, who did not seek re-election last month.
The mayor closed by praising the quality of the city employees.
“It’s not a question of them doing the job,” he said.
“They do it, and they do it well. This city is working like a clock, and, mind you, I worked in Switzerland, and so I know how clocks work.”
The council’s next meeting will be on January 2.
No. 3. Douglas County
- Average life expectancy: 82.4 years (2.2 more than the statewide average)
- Health outcomes
statewide rank: No. 4
--- Length of life rank: No. 2
--- Quality of life rank: No. 18 No. 2. Skamania County
- Average life expectancy: 82.6 years (2.4 more than the statewide average)
- Health outcomes
statewide rank: No. 21
--- Length of life rank: No. 24
--- Quality of life rank: No. 20
No. 1. San Juan County
- Average life expectancy: 86.3 years (6.1 more than the statewide average)
- Health outcomes
statewide rank: No. 1
--- Length of life rank: No. 1
—Courtesy creativecommons.org/ licenses
John Kruse
For The SenTinel
Instead of sleeping in on New Year’s Day or nursing a New Year’s Eve hangover, head to a participating state park for a First Day Hike or other outdoors event. According to Washington State Parks, “First Day Hikes is a national initiative led by America’s State Parks, encouraging people to get outdoors on New Year’s Day. Last year, nearly 55,000 people hiked over 133,000 miles during these free events throughout the nation.”
On January 1 of 2024, a number of parks throughout the Evergreen State will be hosting First Day hikes and events. Here’s a rundown of what’s being offered at several parks in central and eastern Washington:
MOUNT SPOKANE STATE PARK – MOUNT
SPOKANE SUMMIT
SNOWSHOE HIKE
Guided by park staff and volunteers from the Friends of Mt. Spokane, participants will snowshoe past the Bald Knob Picnic Shelter to the historic Vista House located at 5,833 feet—the highest point of Mt. Spokane. If weather permits, participants will have views of the Cabinet Mountains in Montana, Selkirk Crest in North Idaho, and nearby lakes. Snacks will be provided at the trailhead. Participants can also purchase hot drinks and snacks at the Vista House. Maximum group size is 30. The event starts at 9 a.m. and runs until 1 p.m. This is a strenuous 3.5-mile hike and may not be suitable for begin-
Adar Israel especially enjoys being a Soroptimist this time of year when it comes time to distribute all the bounty from the Mitten Tree they place at The Goldendale Sentinel each year. There was an abundance of hats and gloves plus some scarves, slippers, and even some cool socks given by the generous people of our community. The Sentinel staff believes this is the most they have seen donated in all the years they have been here. “It was fun going through them and dividing them up for the different locations
ners. Dogs are not allowed. Please register through Eventbrite under the event name “First Day HikeMount Spokane Summit Snowshoe”. Daily SnoPark Permit ($25) or Seasonal Sno-Park Permit ($50) is required and can be purchased at the Mount Spokane State Park office/ kiosk or online at https:// parks.state.wa.us/130/Winter-recreation.
MOUNT SPOKANE STATE PARK – SMITH GAP WARMING HUT
SNOWSHOE HIKE
This easy 2.6-mile hike is a good choice for beginners and for snowshoers who want to bring their leashed dogs along. Participants will snowshoe west along the Lower Kit Carson Loop Road to Smith Gap and the warming hut which was completed in 2014. Along the way, participants will traverse through a beautiful old-growth cedar-hemlock forest and pass several stream crossings.
Snacks will be provided at the trailhead. Maximum group size is 30. Please register through Eventbrite under the event name “First Day Hike - Smith Gap Warming Hut Snowshoe”. Daily Sno-Park Permit ($25) or Seasonal Sno-Park Permit ($50) is required and can be purchased at the Mount Spokane State Park office/ kiosk or online at https:// parks.state.wa.us/130/Winter-recreation.
LAKE WENATCHE STATE PARK – FIRST DAY GUIDED SNOWSHOE HIKE - Join a park ranger between 11 AM and 2 PM for an easy guided snowshoe hike at the park. You’ll cover up to 2.5 miles altogether, and leashed
they were to be dropped off at,” states Adar. “This is one of my favorite things to do during the season.”
The list was more extensive this year because of the abundance of donations. It included Goldendale Middle School, Goldendale Head Start, Centerville School, Father’s House Fellowship, The Giving Tree at Pat’s Place, Wishram School, and Wishram Head Start. She said Wishram Head Start was extremely happy to get the warm gifts because they are not involved in any program that does this. The Sorop -
dogs are allowed to join you too. Bring your own snowshoes or call the park at (509) 763-3101 to reserve a free pair of snowshoes to use. Checking with Park Ranger Paul Thomas, not only will there be a guided hike on New Years Day, but also throughout January and February on Sundays between 11 a.m. until 1:30 p.m. Meet at the North Park Reservation Booth.
MARYHILL STATE PARK – POLAR PLUNGE 2024 – Klickitat County Parks and Recreation will be hosting their annual Polar Plunge on the 1st. Show up at 9:30 a.m., go to the participants meeting at 9:55, and plunge into the cold waters of the Columbia River for a brisk and refreshing way to kick off the New Year!
STEAMBOAT ROCK STATE PARK – FIRST DAY 5K – walk or run five kilometers (3.1 miles) on New Year’s Day at this scenic state park bordering Banks Lake. The course is flat, runs through the park, and leashed pets are welcome.
According to park staff, “There will be two active participants to lead the walk/jog including, Park Ranger, Alexander George, and Senior Park Aide Windy
timists also called Goldendale Primary School and New Hope Farms, but they declined this year, having enough already.
Because of the giving hearts of the Soroptimists and the generosity of the community, there will be a lot more warm heads and hands this winter and even some warmer feet.
If you happen to have something to donate to this cozy ministry of winter warmth but missed bringing it in, just tuck it away in a closet and bring it down to The Sentinel next year in early December.
Bolger. It will start in day use, go through two campground loops, and head to the turnaround point at the entrance booth. From here you will then go through the remaining campground loops on the way back to the starting line. Afterward at 11 a.m. there will be an interpretive presentation in a nearby cabin from Interpretive Specialist David McWalter.”
Several other parks throughout the state will be hosting first day hikes as well as horseback rides, polar plunges, paddles, dog walks and more. Check out the entire list of New Year’s Day events at https://parks. wa.gov/find-activities/ event-calendar.
Better still, New Year’s Day is a free day to visit any state park in the Evergreen State, no Discover Pass is required for day use visitors, making a trip to a Washington State Park on January 1 all the more appealing. Happy New Year!
John Kruse – www.northwesternoutdoors.com and www.americaoutdoorsradio.com.
How New Year Celebrations Began
The first known record of New Year’s celebrations began about 2000 B.C. in Mesopotamia. This occurred at the time of the vernal equinox, which is toward the end of March. Babylonians would have a religious festival named Akitu taken from the Sumerian term for barley. They’d perform various rituals, which would last for 11 days. Besides celebrating the New Year, Atiku also marked the time that Marduk, Babylonian’s sky god, defeated Tiamat, the evil sea goddess. Meanwhile, the New Year for Persians, Egyptians, and Phoenicians would start in the fall equinox. Greeks used to celebrate the New Year during the winter solstice.
March 1 as the New Year
In the early Roman calendar, there were 10 months or 304 days only. Then, it was March 1 that marked the New Year. So, the ninth through twelfth months or September through December that we often hear was first called seventh through tenth months.
January 1 as the New Year
The origin of January 1 marking the New Year dates back to 46 B.C., when Julius Caesar developed the solar-based Julian calendar. This was after the old lunar-based Roman calendar became ineffective.
Another reason behind making January 1 the start of the New Year was to honor Janus — the Roman god of beginnings who had two faces. This means that he could go back to the past and move forward to the future.
To celebrate the occasion, ancient people would offer sacrifices to the god of beginnings, add laurel branches to their homes as decorations, and exchange gifts. However, the New Year celebrations were paganistic. So, January 1 was removed as the start of the year. December 25, the day Jesus was born, was then considered the beginning of the New Year. March 25, the Feast of the Annunciation, was also used as a replacement for January 1.
Gregorian Calendar
NYE in the Gregorian calendar occurs on December 31. In late 1582, Pope Gregory XIII implemented this calendar in Rome. Minimal changes were applied to the Julian calendar introduced by Julius Caesar. As the lunar cycle calendar became a solar year calendar, some days had to be removed as well. So, days after October 4, 1582, were changed to October 15. You can only imagine what people born on October 5 to 14 felt!
While the Catholic church first followed the Gregorian calendar, other European countries, like Germany, Denmark, Russia, and Scotland, slowly adopted it. Today, the Gregorian calendar is also the one used in different countries.
New Year’s Eve: Different Celebrations and Traditions
You can’t say goodbye to 2023 and welcome another year without celebrating New Year’s Eve. Various countries have their own traditions and celebrations, but there are also common ways to celebrate this special occasion.
Eating Good Luck Food
One of the highlights of New Year’s Eve is the different kinds of food to be shared with family and friends. However, as we’re anticipating a better year, we also love to pick those that have meanings and let us bring good luck, like the following examples:
12
Grapes at Midnight
A popular tradition in Spain includes eating 12 grapes on New Year’s Eve — that’s one grape at each stroke of the clock at midnight. These grapes represent the 12 months, and you have to eat all of them to enjoy a lucky year. Otherwise, the upcoming year might be harsh to you. So, you better chew all of them before the clock stops chiming!
Cakes
In Greece, Mexico, the Netherlands, and other countries, round cakes symbolize the circle of life. Others would put some trinkets or coins inside the cake. Then, if you’re lucky to get it, you’re expected to experience good luck in the coming year.
Legumes Legumes look like old Roman coins and symbolize financial prosperity. That is why Italians have lentils, and Americans add black-eyed peas to their dishes on New Year’s Eve.
Noodles
Long noodles are thought to give you a longer and healthier life. You’re supposed to eat them while making sure they don’t break in half. Meanwhile, in Japan, people eat soba noodles on NYE to symbolize their journey from the old year to the new one. This also means leaving behind their regrets in the last year.
Wearing the Right Underwear A few countries, particularly in Latin
America, have this superstition that you can manifest success and prosperity if you choose the right color of underwear. For instance, if you want to have fortune in love and relationships, wear red underwear on NYE. Meanwhile, yellow underwear could bring you luck, money, and happiness.
Sharing a Midnight Kiss
Another popular New Year’s Eve tradition is the midnight kiss—with your partner or even a new friend. Wondering how this part of the history of New Year’s Eve started? It’s thought to be from Saturnalia, a pagan festival in ancient Rome, which involved a lot of singing, dancing, drinking, socializing, sharing gifts, and kissing! In German and English folklore, a midnight kiss is a great way to start the New Year as it would help you bring good luck. Also, it’s believed that the person you kissed contributes to the fate of your year. So, you might want to pick your partner carefully.
Making New Year’s Resolutions
From achieving a healthier body, spending more time with family, and pursuing goals and aspirations, to loving ourselves more, we’re fond of creating New Year’s resolutions. However, did you know that this tradition started about four millennia ago? Babylonians would make promises to the gods to ask for a better year. Then, Romans would also offer sacrifices and promise Janus to show good deeds. These include returning farm tools that they borrowed from others and settling their debts. Meanwhile, Christians treat the occasion as a time to learn from their shortcomings in the past year and focus on ways to become better for the upcoming year. While the spiritual side of New Year’s resolutions is largely gone, creating New Year’s resolutions has been centered on personal development.
Throwing Fireworks Ringing in the New Year also involves throwing fireworks or using different types of noisemakers. If you want to know when or where the firework tradition began, we have to go back to the seventh century A.D. in China. Fireworks were meant to scare off evil spirits. They’re also known to bring prosperity and good luck. Even different designs and colors correspond to various types of luck, including fertility, love, and
health.
Keeping Doors and Windows Open
It may be cold on New Year’s Eve, so keeping your doors and windows open might not be a good idea. However, in the Philippines, doing this at midnight helps you get rid of the negative energy from last year and attract good energy for the upcoming year.
Hanging Onions on Your Door
This sounds like another bad idea as your home might not look or smell great during New Year’s Eve. However, in Greece, this practice means growth and rebirth. Parents would then ask their children to put the onions on their heads to draw good luck for the year to come.
Throwing Water Out the Window
Another practice believed to ward off evil spirits is throwing water out the window on NYE. This is especially popular in Latin America. The tradition also symbolizes renewal, making it a good way to say goodbye to the old year and start a new one.
Wearing White Clothing
In Brazil, a beach getaway is a common way to celebrate New Year. However, people there also love to wear white outfits during New Year’s Eve to experience good luck and peace for next year.
Singing Auld Lang Syne
If you’ve been to some New Year’s Eve party, you must have heard people singing the Scottish song “Auld Lang Syne.” In the English language, it means “old long since” or “for the sake of old times.” Want to know more about the origin of this popular song? In 1788, Robert Burns wrote this poem in the Scots language. However, it was inspired by a Scottish folk song.
Even if you don’t know or understand the lyrics, you’ll still enjoy it, with everyone forming a circle, singing, and holding each other’s hands. While “Auld Lang Syne” is about old friends and memories, it’s also a perfect song to bid farewell to an old year and welcome a new one.
Having a Toast
One of the most popular ways to welcome the upcoming year is to make a champagne toast. It originates from Christians’ tradition of drinking wine in the Eucharist symbolizing the blood of Christ.
In the Champagne region in France, wine started becoming present during baptisms.
Thus, it was slowly being used in any religious gatherings. Ancient people would also raise their glass and drink to health and honor. Now, individuals from different parts of the world would make that toast to ring in the New Year.
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Establish a self-careroutine
While you’re still working toward being fully awake, a routinethatlets youdiveintodaily preparations on autopilot can be helpful Making time to take care of yourself can give you greater confidence to tackle the day so find a pattern that fits and run with it Aside from basic hygiene, take time to moisturize your skin and apply sunscreen Also build in time to focus on your mental health whether you make some notes in a gratitude journal or meditateto managestress
Eat ahealthy breakfast
Countless studies support the benefits of eating a nutritious breakfast Its good for your metabolism and digestive health It also gives your body the fuel it needs to help you push through theday You’relikely tothink faster and be a more effective problemsolver whenyourbodyhasproper nourishment Eating early in the dayalsoaffects yourmood;you’re
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Year End Ambitions
going On the shortest days of the year I like to doalittle recalibration Itake alook at what I hadhopedto do and waysin which I want to change my thinking Some years I have had major changes in the works going back to schoolor startinganew career Other years my biggest ambition has been to finish off the last of the Christmas cookies before the years end in case they have an end-of-theyear expiration date and pose a danger to those with aless robust constitution This year is somewherebetweenthetwo
Part of becoming older and a bit more at peace with myself is looking at the new year a little differently Instead of a series of challenges to overcome and changes to enact, I look at the new year with a renewed sense of wonder Instead of looking at new mountains Id like to conquer, I like to spend alittle time questioningthe things I do every day without thinking and how those things couldbebetter Someareprofound Mostare
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Aurora Aurora
What is the connection between the words Arctic, Antarctic, Solar Winds and Magnetosphere? What do they mean and what out of this world phenomenon do they create? What is an aurora? Where can it be seen? As long as life on Earth has existed, auroras have caused fear, wonder and fascination. The beautiful dancing lights are the focus of indigenous people in both the southern and northern hemispheres. Legends have been passed from generation to generation trying to explain them. This week, we are going to
until 1899 when a
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that measured the magnetic field near the North Pole. He found that the stronger the magnetic field was, the brighter the aurora became. Many people tried to disprove Birkeland’s theory, but 60 years later, in 1963, the United States Navy proved him right. They launched a satellite into the ionosphere that had a magnetometer on board. Scientists on the ground studied the data and proved the magnetic currents, or
currents, really do exist.
The Northern Lights and the Southern Lights both have scientific names. They are the Aurora Borealis and the Aurora Australis. These lights begin their dance in the regions of the North and South Poles. They can be seen for hundreds of miles. Auroras happen at any time during a day. Their light is not very bright, so most of the time they can not be seen when the sun is out. The lights in the southern hemisphere are shades of red and orange. Most of the myths and stories told by the Aboriginal people from Australia relate the lights to fire. In the northern hemisphere, most of the stories are about life and death. Their name comes from the Roman goddess Aurora who was the goddess of dawn who brought light to the sky.
The Earth has a protective magnetic field around it. This is also called a geomagnetic field. The area around the earth is called the magnetosphere. The sun puts out solar winds that carry charged particles. Most of the time the magnetosphere protects us from those particles. Sometimes particles slip past the magnetosphere. The particles are like a speeding truck that crashes into our atmosphere. As the crash happens, light is released. The amount and different kinds of atmospheric gasses is what causes the different colors. High levels of oxygen cause green lights. High levels of nitrogen turn the lights into beautiful blues and purples.
scientist explained for the first time what an aurora was and how it was created.
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We Hope you had a Joyous Christmas. May the New Year Bring you Peace.
It is our geat honor to serve you through this (our 144th!) holiday season.
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