After 73 years, it looks like the Molines’ marriage is going to work out.
Their daughter, Debbie, relates the incredible story of how Ron and Jeane Moline happened to get hitched back in 1950. Their anniversary is December 10.
“They met in high school,” she says. “Mom was a freshman. Dad was a senior. Dad lived down the street from Mom here in Goldendale. They saw each other a couple times in high school. When she was a sophomore and he’d already graduated, he still lived down the street. He came and asked her for a date. They went to a movie, a Western, and it was 15 cents each. It was very expensive at that time. Here’s the thing: my grandfather bartered everything. They didn’t have money, so he would say, ‘I’ll give you 10 chickens for whatever.’ That kind of thing. So they went to the Western movie.
“Dad asked Grandpa [Jeane’s
dad] if he could marry mom. And his reply was, ‘If you can feed her, you can have her.’ Because they didn’t have money at that time. So they married in Yakima on December 10 in 1950. And Grandpa had to go with, because Mom was only 16 and Dad was 18. He had to go to give permission. And—well— Grandpa was a moonshiner. My brother, Randy, and I, we sipped the jars, and my gosh, it was like gasoline. It was about to kill us, but we lived through it. So on the way to the wedding in Yakima, Grandpa said, ‘I’ve gotta make a little detour, go over to my buddy’s house and drop off his moonshine.’ He
LOU
MARZELES EDITOR
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.
• Fentanyl is cheap, usually less than 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.
~ ~ ~ Simon, Rene, and Bob Simon’s fiancee, Rene, broke off
their engagement two weeks before the scheduled wedding.
“Why?” Simon wanted to know.
“You use too much,” Rene explained caustically. “You’re on the stuff all the time.”
“You’re crazy. I don’t use all the time every day.”
“The only time you don’t is when you don’t have the cash to buy more.”
The conversation went around and around, but in the end the engagement was off. Rene would not have a man who was constantly buzzing on fentanyl, his drug of choice.
So instead she married Simon’s dealer, Bob.
~ ~
~
“I’m a businessman,” Bob was fond of saying. “I don’t use. I can’t if I want to stay in business.”
Bob contended that if he were as high as his customers, and as frequently, he wouldn’t be able to keep track of his inventory and money. He smoked a lot of pot— no big deal, since that’s legal in Washington. “But I can’t touch the heavy stuff,” he often told Rene. She admired his resolve and professionalism in business, at least the way Bob painted the picture.
“I’m service-oriented,” Bob liked to say. “I see a need, I fill it. I step up to help people get what they want. I do it well. I keep good records, not like most dealers who are just plain sloppy.”
Before Rene broke off her and Simon’s nuptials, Simon told Bob that he and Rene were getting married. “Hey, that’s great, man,” Bob told Simon. But he told Rene a different story.
~ ~ ~
“Simon’s a good man,” Rene said to Bob when he asked her about the imminent wedding.
“Problem is that he uses a lot, and I don’t like that it’s mostly fentan-
came back, and they ran outta gas coming back from Yakima on their wedding day because Grandpa had to go do his thing and didn’t have enough money for gas. Dad had to hike and find a farmer, and he said, ‘I just got married,’ and he gave them gas to get home.
“Dad worked for Ort Olsson at the gas station as an attendant, which is where CarQuest is now. Mom worked at the hospital as a nursing assistant, but at that time, they did everything. They assisted in surgeries and took care of patients—not like it is today. They helped in baby deliveries, surgeries, all that back in the day. Things have changed.
“Then they moved to Vancouver where Dad attended college and became an accountant. Then they moved back to Goldendale. He worked for Ort again until he got on his feet enough to start his own business. His business was on Main Street. It was Ron’s
Business Service, which was taxes and accounting. He worked for 55-plus years before retiring. Mom was his office manager, assistant, and receptionist. She did everything. Plus she was raising her children. They had five kids: Rhonda, Randy, Debbie—me—Dyana, and Scott. All those kids had nine grandkids, 16 great-grandchildren, and one great-greatgrandchild. Wow. Since Dy and I haven’t had any kids, I include numerous grand dogs and cats.
“Over the years, they traveled with their best friends, John and Maryanne Miller. The places they traveled were Germany, Australia, Fiji, New Zealand, Panama Canal, Mexico, and numerous places in the United States. They still live in Goldendale as a loving couple with awesome family and friends.”
Those, of course, include the entire Goldendale community, which wishes the Molines a heartfelt, spectacularly Happy Anniversary.
LOU MARZELES EDITOR
Exactly one month ago today, Jonathan Hatfield became the new CEO of Klickitat Valley Health (KVH). Not bad for a man whose college degree was in Biblical Studies.
Hatfield’s dad was a Baptist preacher in Oklahoma. Hatfield went to Heartland Baptist Bible College in Oklahoma City and graduated in 2004.
“I grew up in Tulsa,” Hatfield recounts. His college was in Hurricane Alley, probably the last place someone from Goldendale would want to live. Hatfield wasn’t from Goldendale, but his future wife—whom he met at college—was. And she did not want to stay in a hurricane zone. She came back to Goldendale, and in 2005 Hatfield followed.
He was just going to stay for a short time, maybe six months, check things out. “I was a kid in love,” he recalls. “I moved up here not having a job, just had a little bit of savings, just out of college.” He was 25.
Six months later, he was engaged to the girl who wouldn’t stay in Oklahoma. Six months after that, they were married.
RODGER NICHOLS FOR THE SENTINEL
Goldendale water and sewer rates, which haven’t increased since 2020, are going up with the new year, following the passage of an ordinance raising the rates at the Goldendale city council meeting Monday night.
The monthly water base meter charge for someone with a 3/4inch pipe service will go from $37.60 a month to $41.36 a month, starting in January. That’s a 10 percent increase. The ordinance also adds another 10 percent increase in 2025, a 5 percent increase in 2026, and a 3.5 percent increase in 2027 and every year thereafter.
Sewer rates will take a bigger hit. The monthly charge for someone with a 3/4-inch pipe service will go from $46.50 to $55.80 a month, a 20 percent increase, also starting in January. The ordinance adds another 17 percent in both 2025 and 2026, and 9 percent increases in 2027 and 2028.
Though the council held public hearings on this and two other issues at Monday’s meeting, there was no comment from any members of the public. Only two
Needing a job, he took one as night janitor at KVH. He had a small apartment and did some youth group work for a church in town. He’d come in to KVH at three in the morning and sweep, mop, and buff the floors. He worked his way up to changing light bulbs and ballasts and a little plant and facilities work.
One day he was asked if he knew anything about information technology. “I have a computer,” he answered. He was introduced to a person from Skyline Hospital in White Salmon who was doing some work for KVH at the time.
“There was not much in the way of technology in the organization at the time,” Hatfield says. The guy from Skyline offered to train him if he was interested.
“So I started a kind of apprenticeship with him. They moved me into the IT space. He put me through a couple of certification courses.”
After about a year and a half working that way, he was on his own. Then the KVH CFO said, “Let’s just expand the program,” Hatfield says, “and so that’s what we did. So that’s how I got into healthcare,” meaning IT services related to that field. “I started in
people attended in person and one online.
The other two hearings involved the second reading of the city’s 2024 budget, which was approved, and an ordinance correcting conflicting language between the Goldendale Municipal Code and the Goldendale Water Comprehensive Plan on new requests to hook up to city water.
City Administrator Pat Munyan explained it this way:
“The city ordinance says any application outside city limits has to come to the city council for authorization,” he said. “But then you have your water comp plan, which has been adopted by the city council as well. That language reads that anytime it’s in the service area, the city, under Washington State’s law, has what’s called a ‘duty to serve,’ whether it’s part of the city limits or not part of the city limits.”
Councilors also approved an updated agreement for dispatch services with the county’s 9-1-1 dispatch center. The two-year agreement includes a three percent cost of living increase each year. And the council approved a memorandum of understanding
the IT department. I just fell in love with it.”
You’re following this trajectory correctly: freshly minted college graduate with a degree in Biblical Studies to janitor to IT apprentice to IT healthcare. But we’re just warming up. Hatfield explains the path this way: it’s servant leadership. “You’re serving your community in one regard or another,” he states. “My dad was really big on servant leadership. We did courses in our church on servant leadership and how our
involving retention bonuses that was negotiated two years ago with the police union but was not formalized at the time. The agreement promised a $3,000 endof-the-year bonus to police force members who were working on January 1 and stayed the whole year, as small towns have difficulty hiring and retaining police.
Police Chief Mike Smith urged councilors to approve the agreement so that officers who worked this year would receive it, saying the department had lost officers for the failure to pay the retention bonus last year.
“Two years ago, when we did our contract when Larry Bellamy was here, it should have been done then,” he said. “It was agreed upon then, it was changed, and I have had employees leave my department because this has not been done. They’re not asking for the moon. I believe it’s fair. They’re still being gypped a whole year’s worth of retention pay because of the lack of this not being done.” The council passed the motion, with Councilor Loren Meagher abstaining because he thought the matter should be discussed
In
The following individuals were arrested and lodged at the Klickitat County Jail from November 1 through November 20, 2023. The arresting agencies include Klickitat County Sheriff’s Office (KCSO), Goldendale Police Department (GPD), Bingen White Salmon Police Department (BWSPD), Department of Corrections (DOC), and Washington State Patrol (WSP).
There are three different courtrooms in Klickitat County. Superior Court, located at the Klickitat County Courthouse in Goldendale; East District Court, which also handles the cases for Goldendale Municipal Court located in the Klickitat County Courthouse; and West District Court is located in White Salmon at the Pioneer Center. This court also handles cases for Bingen Municipal Court and White Salmon Municipal Court.
This list is continued from last week.
Scotty Johnson, arrested by GPD on January 24, 2023, and booked on Violation No Contact Order, Residential Burglary, Assault 3 and Resisting Arrest. On March 3, 2023, KCSO booked Mr. Johnson on an additional Assault
Klickitat County Jail
3 charge. Johnson remains in custody pending trial. Joseph Jones was arrested by GPD on February 22, 2023, and booked on Burglary 2nd degree, Criminal Trespass 1st degree and Theft in the 3rd degree. Mr. Jones is currently being held on $25,000 bail and is awaiting trial.
Daniel Lasley, arrested in East District Court on September 11, 2023, and booked on DWLS 1 and Operating Vehicle without Ignition Interlock. Lasley had two separate cases with the same charges. He has been sentenced to 364 days with 0 suspended in each case.
Keeno Lindsay, arrested by GPD for a Protection Order Violation on September 3, 2023. Bail was set at $5,000 for this charge in East District Court. On September 14, 2023, this charge was dismissed. On September 5, 2023, the Klickitat County Prosecutor filed a Violation of a domestic violence protection order, a sexual assault protection order, and a stalking protection order in Superior Court. Bail is set at $75,000, and he is awaiting trial.
Valente Lopez was arrested on November 9, 2023, by KCSO on a DOC Warrant. A DOC hearing is pending. Jesse Loy was arrested in
East District Court on November 13, 2023. He is being held on $5,000 bail for Probation Violations.
Kevin Mason was arrested by KCSO on January 14, 2023, and booked on Residential Burglary, Criminal Trespass 2nd Degree, and Resisting arrest. Mason is currently awaiting trial.
Rodney McGraw, transported to KCSO on a Superior Court Warrant for Kidnapping 2nd degree and Unlawful Imprisonment. McGraw is currently awaiting trial with bail set at $100,000.
Ryan McGraw, arrested by GPD and booked on two counts of Burglary 1st degree and 2 counts of Malicious Mischief 1st Degree on August 29, 2023. Bail is set at $50,000, and he is awaiting trial.
John Raczykowski, transported from Jefferson County Oregon to KCSO Jail by KCSO on a Superior Court warrant for two counts of Murder in the 1st Degree. Mr. Raczykowski is awaiting sentencing on this matter following a plea agreement.
Kyle Seward, transported from Clackamas County Oregon, by KCSO on a Superior Court Warrant for Theft in the Second Degree and Trafficking in Stolen Property
Second Degree. Bail is set at $7,500, and he is awaiting trial.
Alan Spino, WSP arrested and booked Mr. Spino on October 15 for Unlawful Possession of a Firearm First Degree, DUI, Operating Vehicle without Ignition Interlock, and DWLS 3rd. Bail is currently $10,000, and he is awaiting trial.
Lawrence Wahpat, arrested and booked by KCSO on a West District Court warrant for Malicious Mishief 3rd and Possession of a Dangerous Weapon. He was also booked for a new Burlary 2nd degree charge in Superior Court. Bail is set for $5,100 in his West District matter, and bail was set at $10,000 for his Superior Court matter. He is awaiting trial in both courts.
Nicholas Worley, transported from Yakima County to KCSO Jail on October 9, 2023, for Fail to Appear on a DUI, DWLS 1st and Operating a Vehicle without Ignition Interlock warrant issued from East District Court. There were also 11 Probation Violations included in this matter. On October 26th, Worley entered a guilty plea and was sentenced to 180 days in jail.
A skeleton found in White Salmon in September has been positively identified through dental records.
On September 28, a White Salmon resident discovered skeletonized human remains in a wooded area near the 200 block of Bates Road, White Salmon. A scene investigation was conducted by the Klickitat County Sheriff’s Office (KCSO) and the Washington State Patrol Crime Scene Response Team. The human remains were transported to the Clark County Medical Examiner’s Office for examination by a forensic pathologist.
On October 3, Sondra Lentz contacted the Klickitat County Prosecutor/Coroner’s Office and informed them that her son, Gary A. Zosel, 41, had disappeared in December 2021 and at the time had been living in the Snowden area of Klickitat County. KCSO Detective Sergeant Erik Anderson contacted Lentz for a follow-up interview. Lentz informed Anderson she last heard from her son via text message on December 18, 2021, at about 6:18 a.m. with what was a
routine message. She added she normally heard from him every couple of days, but she did not hear from him after he texted her that day.
The Klickitat County Prosecutor’s Office was able to obtain dental charts and X-rays of Zosel. These records were sent to the Clark County Medical Examiner’s Office for evaluation by a forensic odontologist.
On November 29, Anderson was notified that the remains were positively identified as Gary A. Zosel.
The identification was made through the assistance of the Klickitat County Coroner’s Office, forensic pathologist Dr. Martha Burt of the Clark County Medical Examiner’s Office, forensic anthropologist Dr. Andrew Seidel of the King County Medical Examiner’s office, and forensic odontologist Dr. Kyle Tanaka, a consultant with the Washington State Patrol Missing/Unidentified Persons Unit.
The KCSO requests anyone who has information about Zosel’s disappearance and/or death to contact Anderson at (509) 773-4455
G OLDENDALE ’ S A TTIC
Answer to last week´s Mystery Picture
This week’s Goldendale’s Attic Mystery Picture
Here’s what we do know: the seven people in this picture have something to do with 4-H. Befitting a 4-H thingy (not to get too technical), these are all young people. Had to be
fairly recent because we didn’t colorize this picture; this is how it ran. But we’re darned if we have a clue who these people are, when this picture was taken, why, or where.
Do you know? 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@golden
dalesentinel.com), or give us a call (509-773-3777), or drop in at the office—and remember, you’re welcome to come in and take a look at the original photograph.
L OOKING BACK
December 4, 1913 – 110 Years Ago
Dr. F. Collins spent Thanksgiving Day in Seattle, at the express invitation of relatives who, very likely, realized the wisdom of having a doctor handy to cope with the aftereffects of too much turkey. We suspect however that the opportunity of seeing the teams of the University of Washington and the Washington State College engage in their annual football battle had a great deal more to do with the Doctor’s acceptance of the invitation than did any altruistic motives.
December 2, 1926 – 97 Years Ago
High water in the Little Klickitat caused by a heavy downpour of rain that fell all of Sunday night took out a portion of the dam at the flour mill west of town Monday morning. The part taken out was about 30 feet long and 20 feet in depth located on the north side of the pond. It was constructed of loose rock and dirt, and the water getting a start through, soon made a wide gap. The flour mill is being operated by D.A. Silver & Sons, who have recently put the mill in shape for the manufacture of flour, feeds, etc., and now have their products on the market. The hole in the dam shut off their waterpower. The pond is also necessary for the operation of the sawmill at the upper end, which was operated last summer, and which the Daly Bros. intend to run next spring.
December 2, 1943 – 80 Years Ago
“Who’s that knocking at our door?” was a question asked many times Sunday and Monday by Mr. and Mrs. Ernest Seibold. Hearing what they believed to be a knock at the front door, the Seibolds answered the door many times during the two days. It was fi rst believed that the “knock” was coming from some practical joker. Every time they answered the door, the noise would stop. Finally, Mrs. Seibold discovered that the “knock” was being made by a woodpecker that had become trapped in a porch pillar, making its entry through the top. With a saw and hammer, she cut away enough of the pillar to free the bird. Ernest says his wife can do a swell job of tearing things up.
December 5, 1953 – 70 Years Ago
Goldendale third graders describe their Thanksgiving Day:
On Thanksgiving Day, we had lots of things to eat. We had turkey and dressing and potatoes and gravy, too. Two of my uncles and aunts were there. Four of my cousins were there too. Their names Crystal and Craig [Schuster], and Mark and Allan [Doubravsky]. My brother (Rusty) was there, too. I ate all I could hold. Then my uncle let me ride over to his house with him. Mother and father came after me and visited for a while. Then we had to go home. I said good-bye to my grandmother and Grandfather. Sandra Ann Brack
We went to our Grandma’s and Grandpa’s for Thanksgiving. We had turkey, tomatoes, and olives. We had marshmallows with a little flag pushed in it. We had a nice time. Barby Byars.
I went down to my grandmother’s and grandfather’s house for Thanksgiving. We had ice cream and turkey for dinner. We had pickles and pumpkin pie and fruit and lettuce. We had potatoes and cranberries, and we ate olives. Irene Creighton.
December 5, 1963 – 60 Years Ago
HI Way Supermarket [Holcomb’s] this week is celebrating its second anniversary in Goldendale with a special sale. HI Way Super is managed by Ed Uecker, a Centerville resident for many years, who formerly managed the Goldendale Feed Bag Market and before that employed in several locations as a meat cutter. HI Way employs a staff of 11 persons including after-school help and supports an annual payroll of approximately $47,000. Its owners are Paul and Bob Flaman of The Dalles, owners and operators of the East Hill and Hilltop Markets in that city.
—Richard Lefever Klickitat County Historical Society
This picture appears to be early to mid ’90s and quite possibly had something to do with the hospital (KVH) because all of the adults worked or volunteered there. No one was able to put a name to the young man with the bike, but we have (almost) everyone else. They are, left to right, Pat Scarola, Jane
and
We also had an update from Max Maurer on last week’s answers. In the picture of mostly ladies sitting around a table, he believes the lady in the center, sitting at the back side of the table facing the camera, is Joanne (Huckfeldt) Bridgefarmer.
Points to ponder:
Optometrist: “Read the bottom line.”
Patient: “Copyright 2007. Made in China.”
I longed for the pitter-patter of
This little pig went to market 28 times Friday at WinkGoldendale Saleyard, and in so doing raised $57 for the March of Dimes. The pig was bought and turned back 28 times before winding up as the property of Max Maurer. Max wasn’t there to state his preference—the weaner piggy was bought for him, on a bid of $9.50, highest of the day, by Leonard Larsen. The bids ranged from $1 to $5 in the comic prelude to the regular livestock sale, with Maestro Frank Wink conducting. After every deal, the old ringmaster squinted hard at the buyer and said: “Wann keep ’im or sell ’im?” Frank kept right on the buyers’ signals. Some said they started to wipe their noses and bought a pig. The Sentinel cameraman nearly made a deal by resetting the lens on the camera. That Frank can really pick up a hand signal.
Successful buyers of the polio piggy, with a gay red ribbon around his neck, were Toppenish saleyard, R. E. Ray, John Fahlen-
kamp, H. and H. Packing Co., H. V. Carlson, May Proctor, L.E. Larsen, Ted Everett, B. Ehle, O. P. Kreps, Gail Bolton, Henry Culver, Frank Wink, V. Morrison, Ken Kuhnhausen, Dan Lefever, Bill Anderson, Glenn Clausen, John Cochran, Dick McClure, Carl Kloker, John Tobin, Mrs. W. C. Nelson, Charles Wilson, Guy Thompson, Bill Hall, Charles Hastings, and fi nally Maurer.
A good turnout had lunch at the saleyard, with the proceeds donated to charity by the ladies of Pleasant Valley Grange. The March of Dimes, the Heart Fund and the Cancer Fund shared the take. In 1958, the sales ring, opened in November 1957, grossed over $1 million, for a weekly average of over $20,000. With milder weather, lively weekly auctions are expected at the ring. Cattle volumes have been good, and the yard has been attracting sheep and hog buyers and sellers as well.
Cook, Ron Ingraham,
Merlin Taylor.
OpiniOn
Organizing and reorganizing the board
Each year at their December meeting, the Goldendale School Board reorganizes their leadership. This means that any newly elected board members are sworn in and the board nominates and elects a board chairperson and vice chairperson.
The oath of office is given to newly elected or appointed board members. At the December 11, 2023, GSD Board meeting, the oath of office will be administered to Chris Twohy, Betty Richards, and Deborah Heart. The oath states that the board member will support the Constitution of the United States and the State of Washington and will faithfully perform the duties of a board member.
Guest Column Ellen
Perconti, GSD Superintendent
The Board’s policy indicates that the board chair presides at all meetings, signs all required papers, and conducts meetings according to board policy. The board chair facilitates board meetings using Robert’s Rules of Order, which provides a standard way to facilitate discussions and group decision-making. And the board chair has the responsibility of managing the board’s meetings and conversations so there is clarity regarding the issue at hand and so that the agenda is treated in an efficient and effective manner. The board chair is a full participant in all aspects of the board. This means that the board chair can make motions, vote, and participate in the discussion at meetings.
The board chair often is the spokesperson of the board. They are authorized to report and discuss actions and decisions that have been made by the board. The board chair works closely with the superintendent in planning meetings and ensuring that all board members are informed of communication and upcoming items.
Once the board chair has been voted in, the board will nominate and elect a vice chair. The vice chair is available to perform the duties of the chair in their absence.
Goldendale School District is fortunate to have dedicated board members who take their responsibilities seriously and are willing to learn, grow, and lead together. Their governance mindset ensures that they lead cohesively, finding avenues to respectfully face differences and difficulties. They work collaboratively to be a team focused on serving all students.
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
Emails: news@goldendalesentinel.com
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Editorial: Lou Marzeles, Editor & Publisher Business and office staff: Owned by Tartan Publications, Inc.
Leslie Geatches, President, Financial management, Special Section production, Ad Design
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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.
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 from the community
Don’t underestimate him
The political establishment does not support Semi Bird because it is part of the problem that has taken a toll on the state’s ability to limit out-of-control taxes and overregulation and is linked to special interests because of political donations. Semi Bird is a threat to their way of doing business in Olympia. One thing they don’t understand is Semi had to battle his whole life just being raised in the poor part
of Oakland, one of the roughest areas in the country. Every day was a challenge to keep from ending up being a statistic. But his mom instilled values in him that kept him from becoming a victim of the ghetto. Leaving high school to join the Marines was another challenge. The Marines didn’t care about your age; you were a Marine and were expected to act like one. During his time in the service, he went on to get an education and never stopped preparing himself for making a bet-
Guidelines for Letters
ter future. Semi built his
cessful business and a mandate as
member of the school board. All this is to say Semi is no stranger to doing battle for what is right. So I say to the Establishment: do not underestimate the power of the Bird. To find out more go to: birdforgovernor.com
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Delmer Eldred Goldendale
We
will miss you, Kay
Last week many of us here in Glenwood lost a dear friend. I’m going to use this column to share my own memories of Kay KayserThompson. Although Kay was a resident of Goldendale, not Glenwood, she was well-known and loved by many here. I first met her when I traveled from Alaska to meet our nephew Ron Whitmire’s fiancée, Luann Kayser, and attend their rehearsal dinner and wedding. I was introduced to and sat with Luann’s mom, Kay, at the rehearsal dinner and, although I already have several sisters, I added another sister that night.
I remember commenting on the incredibly delicious foods served at the rehearsal dinner and learned that she had prepared them all. Kay was kind, thoughtful, gracious, fun, and devoted to her family. It was good to see that our nephew Ron wasn’t gaining a mother-inlaw, he was gaining a mom who accepted and loved him wholeheartedly as one of her children. And because of Ron, Kay also accepted Glenn and me and our kids into her family, and we are all so much richer for it.
Over the years, we lived in various places for our careers, so visits with Ron and Luann, their children McKayla and Myles, and Kay were precious and few. When we retired and moved back to Glenwood, one of the best parts was that we had more opportunities to spend time with Kay and our Whitmire family.
I remember one afternoon when I told her we were
coming over for McKayla’s soccer game. She insisted we also come for the team dinner at her house that evening. It was just one of many team dinners Kay served to sports teams in Goldendale over the years. Often when we stopped by her house, she was in her rocking chair with a baby in her arms. She was “Grandma Kay” to so many kids in Goldendale over the decades. For a while, she lived near the high school, and several of the high school kids would stop by on the way to school for a hearty, delicious breakfast prepared by Grandma Kay. When there was someone in her community struggling with illness, or someone who was elderly and had no family close by, Kay was the one who helped them, cooked them meals, took them where they needed to go, and made sure their needs were met. She was always helping with some fundraiser or another. I wonder how many pies she baked over the years for the Goldendale Grange fundraisers. She was everpresent at the Klickitat County Fair, usually overseeing the still life or the baked goods/sewing departments. For me, now, it’s hard to imagine a county fair, or even a world, without Kay. She touched so many lives, so many hearts during her lifetime. Goldendale was so lucky to have her. When our nephew Ron passed quite suddenly several years ago, Kay was the solid rock taking care of everyone, just being there to do what was needed in her kind, gentle way. We’ll miss her more than words can express, but we can honor her memory by jumping in when there is a need and treating others as graciously and kindly as Kay always did.
canceled due to snowy road conditions. They were scheduled to play Stevenson on Tuesday, December 5, here in Glenwood. I’ll share those results later. They’ll play in Condon on Tuesday, December 12. Good luck, Klickwood.
We are keeping her kids Ronda and Gary, Jay, and Luann, Chris Ballard, her grandchildren JayLynn, Courtney, McKayla, Myles, her great-grandchildren, her many, many friends, and all the kids who considered her their grandma, in our hearts because we know theirs are broken right now. Kay, may you rest in peace. Your legacy lives on, dear, remarkable lady. Our three Glenwood basketball girls, Jayla Avila, Emma Patterson, and Hazel Fujita, and their Trout Lake Mustangs girls team, along with the Mustangs boys teams, competed in the Ione Tournament last Friday and Saturday. What a great weekend for them. Both Mustangs teams took first place. Congratulations, Mustangs. Way to kick off your season, and I know it’s going to be an exciting and amazing one for you all. This weekend, December 7 through 9, they’ll travel to Umatilla for the Columbia River Clash. Good luck to our Glenwood girls and the Trout Lake Mustangs teams. The Klickwood boys high school team’s game with Columbia High School last Friday, December 1, was
Last week our Glenwood Eagles middle school boys (plus one girl) team lost a tough game against Centerville on Monday but won their game on Thursday at Lyle. That night at Lyle they were back to only five players, so the Eagles got no rest. They played well and hard and never gave up to get that win. We should all be very proud of the spunk and determination of our Glenwood Eagles team and Coach KyAnn. They were scheduled to play Klickitat here at home on Monday, December 4, and Trout Lake, also here, on the 7th. Game time is 5:30 p.m. I’ll share news of those games next week.
If you haven’t yet received the December Glenwood School Newsletter, here’s a heads up that the Christmas concert will take place at 6 p.m. on December 12 and the annual Glenwood School Christmas dinner will be held on December 15, beginning at 10 a.m. If you haven’t made reservations for the dinner, you can call Mrs. Troh at the school office to do so. School will be dismissed for the Christmas break after the dinner.
Santa is stopping in Lyle
Do you hear the distant tinkling of bells? Jingle bells? Yes! It’s Jolly Old St. Nick! He’s making his journey from the North Pole to Lyle and wants all the boys and girls to come to the Lyle Activity Center to meet him and whisper their fondest wishes in hopes of finding them under their Christmas Tree. It’s happening on Saturday, December 9, from 6 to 8 PM. The Lyle Community Council and the Lyle Fire Department are sponsoring his visit and will have cookies and hot cocoa for everyone—yep, even the parents. A short, lighted fire truck caravan will cruise the streets announcing Santa’s arrival, so get all bundled up and join the others to make sure of your place in line and make Santa feel really welcome.
You can start that day off with another joy, and that’s a warm welcome and a hot meal at the Lions
First Saturday Breakfast at the Lions Club. December is a time of joy, not only of receiving, but the opposite: of giving. One naturally thinks of joy in receiving, but there is a far greater gift one can give, and that is of oneself—your donations not only of money but your time, to charities, the next-door neighbor, a visit to a foster home or adult family living facility. Seek out where your interests lie and step up. The greatest gift you will be giving is to yourself.
On November 11 Grangers and community members came together to celebrate the Columbia Grange 87’s 134th birthday of being the oldest Grange in Washington continuously
operating in its original building, here in Lyle. A pie auction of 17 pies, provided by volunteers, raised $1,080! Since the 1990s our Grange has struggled. Many granges have been lost to fire, repossession by their county for non-payment of taxes, and abandonment. A few folks have sought to hang in there. Thanks to Juliet Poullion who held a massive garage sale to pay back taxes and regain our nonprofit status in the 2010s. We also give thanks for Dick Keyes who almost single-handedly repainted and restored much of the outside of the building. We are also grateful for our long-time neighbors, Mike and Lu Vorce, who help keep an eye on the place and share their well with us. Our future vision is to revive the Junior Grange programs to bring in a new generation to help them learn the value of life and community in our rural setting. Columbia Grange 87 is located off Old Highway 8 near the Canyon Road turnoff. Once again, thanks to our wonderful caring community!
Lyle Schools and MUGS Coffee Shop at 120 W Steuben St. in Bingen are partnered to bring some extra joy to Lyle School families in need during the holiday. Anyone can go to MUGS and pick a tag from the beautiful Christmas Tree. Any tag that starts with the letter L is a Lyle student and will have the gender, age, gift ideas, and size of clothing. You don’t have to get every item on the tag. Some folks share the wishes with family members or a group!
Gifts should be wrapped, labeled with the tag code, and returned to the café by December 20. While there, enjoy a cup of coffee or a pastry, and thank MUGS for supporting our students year after year. Sign-ups to receive a Christmas Food Box from the Lyle Lions has been extended to December 6. Please let Joan know at (509) 365-2872. Speak clearly and leave your name and number and how many adults and children in the household. This is for residents of the Lyle School District. Remember, pick-up is Saturday, December 16, at the Lyle Lions Community Center from 9 a.m. to noon. Thanks in advance to the Dallesport Fire Department that will be
gathering non-perishables soon for this project.
The Sheriff’s Office wants everyone to pay close attention when we have snowy roads and advises: “The roads are slick! Please slow down and remember, 4-wheel drive might be good in the snow, but stopping distance is usually the problem. Allow extra room between you and the vehicle in front of you.”
Roads are not only slick, guys, but sometimes there are dreadful rock slides. Each road has been closed even for just a little while these past few days, and it’s always mindful to keep a close eye out for them.
Submit your news to Mildred E. Lykens, (509) 365-2273 or lykensme41@ gmail.com.
The Klickitat County Republicans will hold the Republican precinct caucuses on Saturday, January 13, at 10 a.m. The Precinct Caucuses occur every four years in order to elect delegates and alternates to the county convention and to discuss issues pertinent to the Republican platform for Klickitat County.
According to Lisa Evans, Chairwoman of the Klickitat County Republicans and Vice Chairwoman for the Washington State GOP, “This next election cycle is critical. We have very diverse candidates for both the governor’s race and for U.S. president. It is vital that we hear from the grassroots voters in person on who they would like to see leading our state and nation for the next four years. The whole state of Washington will be holding Precinct Caucuses at the exact same date and time. In Klickitat County, our focus is community, conversations, and carrying our voice to the state.”
The eligibility for who can attend the Klickitat County Republican Caucus is any registered voter who is willing to state by
signing a registration form and a precinct caucus participation form that the person considers him or herself to be a Republican and will not participate in the 2024 caucus or convention of any other party.
The locations of the caucus are precinct-dependent. A voter may check with the county auditor’s office if they are unsure of their precinct.
Voters from the Aldercreek, Centerville, Columbus, Pine Forest, Roosevelt, Woodland, Orchard Heights, Alderdale, and Goldendale 1, 2, and 3 precincts will meet at the Goldendale Grange located at 340 Darland Drive in Goldendale.
Voters from East Klickitat, Lyle, North Dalles, West Klickitat, Wishram, Appleton, East Lyle, River, and High Prairie will meet at the High Prairie Community Center at 701 Struck Road in Lyle. The westside Precincts of Fruit Valley, Glenwood, Husum, Mountain Brook, North Fruit Valley, Trout Lake, Bingen, White Salmon, and North White Salmon will meet at the Pioneer Center at 501 NE Washington Street in White Salmon.
Robert Anthony “Tony” Evans
Born April 2, 1971, died October 28, 2023. Tony was born in Portland, Oregon. His parents are Robert and Ruby Evans. He attended and graduated from Jefferson High School before moving on to pursue his career in Janitorial Management.
After moving to Goldendale, he continued his career at Oregon Veterans Home, The light of Tony’s life was being a father. Although he was quiet and reserved, he enjoyed being around his loved ones. Tony also loved to eat; his favorite food was toast made any way! He loved music; some of his favorites were the Beastie Boys and ’80s rap. He loved
spending time with his dog, Diesel, and his cat, Explore. He is survived by his only child, Emilee Evans; his mother, Ruby Evans: his siblings, Dana Evans, Martin Demott, and Tami Vialpando; several nieces and nephews; and many friends.
His Celebration of Life was held on December 2, 2023, at the Masonic Lodge, 210 S. Columbus, in Goldendale.
Tony would like to be remembered as a man who loved to chill, laugh, and kick back!
We would like to thank Columbia Hills Memorial Chapel for their guidance in our unfortunate life event.
Michael Brand Henslee
Michael Brand Henslee passed away December 1, 2023, at home in Goldendale. Michael was born July 10, 1948, and was 75 years of age at the time of passing. A full obituary will run later.
Leon George Ward
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.
• Zumba Classes – Soul 2 Soul Health Center 5:30 –6:30 p.m.
Sunday
• 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 509-493-1533.
• The Coalition for Preventing Abuse in Klickitat County (CPAKC) 4 p.m. every 2nd Monday via Zoom. 509-7733776 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 information, 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
• 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.
• Narcotics Anonymous, 5 – 6 p.m. weekly at the United Methodist Church, 109 E Broadway Goldendale.
• 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
• 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 cook-
Leon George Ward, age 87, passed away on Tuesday, November 21, 2023, at his home in Goldendale. Leon was born April 14, 1936, on the family farm in Centerville on Stringstreet Road. He was the son of Ralph Cecil and Vernita Wanda (Bowman) Ward. He graduated from Goldendale High School in 1955 and married Laura Elma Murray on September 30, 1956.
Leon worked hard his whole life to support his family. He worked at Gary’s TV, managed the Best Western Motel and Dinty’s Motor Inn in Biggs
Junction, and worked at Columbia Aluminum Plant and Linda’s Restaurant. Leon loved to fish and was very active in the Model Railroad Club with Ed Weddle. He loved sports and loved to watch his grandchildren play. He loved to make wood projects, and you were blessed to receive any of his crafted items. Leon was a 5th-degree member of the Centerville Grange No. 81. He was loved by all who knew him and will be
greatly missed. Leon was preceded in death by his parents; brother Ronald Ward; sister Nondis Scherer; daughter Shelly Ward; and his bride, Laura Ward. He is survived by his children, Sherrie (Richard) Boe, Gregory Ward, Shannon (John) Maul, Glenn (Tammy) Ward; seven grandchildren; seven great-grandchildren; and sisters Jane (Jody) Granum and Wanda Arnold.
A memorial service will be held at 1 p.m. on Saturday, December 16, 2023, at the American Legion, 108 N. Grant, Goldendale, Washington, reception to follow. Interment took place on Wednesday, November 29, 2023, at IOOF Mountainview Cemetery in Goldendale, Washington. Arrangements are under the direction of Columbia Hills Memorial Chapel, 300 W. Broadway Street (PO Box 134), Goldendale, Washington 98620, (509) 772-2636. Visit www. gardnerFH.com to share a story or leave a note for family.
Community Events
ing classes. 509-281-0288 or email cassidy@wagap.org
• Let’s Play Chess! – 1st & 3rd Wednesday afternoon from 3 – 5 p.m. beginning in May. Goldendale Library.
• Snowden Community 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 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 (308 Klickitat). Meetings also available via Zoom https:// lylewa.com/about-us Thursday
• EPIC Game Night – every Thursday from 6 – 8 p.m. at the EPIC youth center. Children under 10 must be accompanied by an adult.
• 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 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 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 509-2612815
• 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.
• 3rd Saturday Dinners –Bavarian Deli 5 – 7 p.m. Local Beef brisket $25
December 7, 2023, December Business After Hours: 6 – 7:30 p.m. 903 E Broadway at the Chamber office. Looking to network with other business owners and entrepreneurs? Now is your chance! Join us for the December Business After hours at the Chamber office! This event is FREE to GGACC Members. Light refreshments will be provided. Attendees are encouraged to bring their business cards and information to display at the office during this event. Contact Teja Finch 509-773-3400.
December 9, 2023, Decorate and Delight: 2 – 4 p.m. at 103 E Main Street at the Windermere office. Join us for cookie and ornament decorating and hot cocoa for the whole family!
December 9, 16, and 23, 2023, Believe in the Magic of Christmas: 3 – 5 p.m. 15 Marett Way at Goldendale Reindeer. Santa and Mrs. Claus are coming to Goldendale Reindeer! Come join us on the farm for a cozy evening of country Christmas activities. The farm will be decorated for Christmas! Warm fire pits, festive music, family lawn games, and photo opportunities abound. Wave to the reindeer and turkeys, browse our Christmas trees and gift barn, then sip a cup of hot cider around the fire. S’mores will be available for purchase. Each child will receive a magical gift from Santa. Visit https://fareharbor.com/embeds/ book/goldendalereindeer/items/ to learn more and purchase tickets.
December 9, 2023, Goldendale Farmers’ Market Holiday Bazaar: 9 a.m. – 3 p.m. 228 E Darland at the Goldendale Grange Hall. Explore unique gifts & handcrafted items at the Farmers’ Market Bazaar! Indulge in delicious treats like fresh baked cookies & pies. It’s the perfect place to find holiday gifts & join in the festive mood.
December 9, 2023, A Gingerbread Village: 5 – 7 p.m. 514 S Columbus Ave at Field of Stars Boutique and Monkeyshines Art Gallery. this event is sure to be a hit for all ages. The quaint and cozy setting of the gingerbread village will transport you into a winter wonderland, complete with sparkling lights and the sweet smell and gingerbread fub. And with hot cocoa, cider, cookies, and more, this is the
perfect opportunity to gather with friends and family and enjoy some Christmas cheer. Visit our gingerbread village and have your picture taken with the gingerbread maiden. Bring your friends, family, and loved ones for an evening of holiday cheer, crafts, treats, and more. And let’s spread some joy and support our local businesses this holiday season. See you there!
December 9, 2023, Candy Cane Lane Christmas Parade: 5 p.m. following the normal parade route. Come join us in Goldendale, Washington on Saturday, December 9th for an unforgettable evening of festive fun at the Candy Cane Lane Parade and festivities. The holiday spirit will be in full swing as we kick off the weekend with the judging of the best decorated homes and businesses on Thursday, December 7th. Keep your lights on from 6-10pm to be eligible for the top prize! On Saturday, December 9th, the parade lineup will begin at 3pm on Schuster Street by the Primary School. The parade will feature a variety of decorated floats, marching bands, and equestrian groups all competing for the coveted title of “Best in Parade.” At 4:30 pm, the Grand Marshall will light the Community Christmas Tree on the courthouse lawn, adding even more magic to the festivities. The Candy Cane Lane Parade officially kicks off at 5pm. This is an event not to be missed—so mark your calendars and join us for a wonderful evening of holiday cheer in Goldendale. After the lively and colorful parade, the community will gather at The Lodge for a heartwarming hometown event. As the winter chill sets in, warm up with delicious hot chocolate, books for kids, and hot soup The Lodge will also be hosting an awards ceremony for the Best Decorated Homes and Businesses, adding to the festive atmosphere. Guests can also enjoy the musical talents of Dr. James Ogden and have the opportunity to take pictures with Santa, making it a memorable experience for both young and old. This post-parade celebration is the perfect way to continue spreading cheer and joy in our community, bringing everyone together in the spirit of the holiday season. Don’t miss out on this fun and cozy event at The Lodge.
December 15, 2023, Christmas Concert: 7 p.m., Camplan Room, Goldendale Community Library, annual music event by Lou Marzeles and Leslie Geatches.
O BITUARIES
Allan Wimberly Schulz
Allan Wimberly Schulz was born in Chehalis, Washington on January 16, 1940, the son of Margaret (Smithson) and Jack Schulz. He grew up in West Seattle then moved to Puyallup and graduated from Puyallup High School in 1958.
He went to work at Boeing out of high school as a hydraulic plumber. In February 1959 Allan enlisted in the United States Navy where he was an air traffic controller on the USS Ticonderoga carrier ship until 1963. He returned to Puyallup after his service and married “the Girl Next Door,” a friend and the love of his life, Cheryl Lynn Wunch. They married on September 7, 1963, in Puyallup where they settled. Allan worked in the trucking industry for a number of years before fulfilling a dream of buying his own truck. Allan ended his working career as a mechanic for Sealand in Tacoma where he also served as the Shop Steward for the Teamsters union. Allan retired in 2001. He enjoyed classic cars and
garage time with his 1931 Ford. In 2010, Allan moved to Goldendale after losing wife Cheryl after 46 years of marriage. He enjoyed the community, classic cars, and freedom on the open road. Allan went peacefully on November 17, 2023, surrounded by his family at his home in Goldendale. He was 83 years old and survived by his sons James Schulz, David (Gail) Shulz; his daughter Lynette (Brian) Enstad; his grandchildren, Dylon, Morgan, Ethan (Emily), and Dean (Haily); and great grandchildren Terrence, Kennedy, and Della. Allan was preceded in death by his wife Cheryl, brother John, and his parents.
Allan’s family will be holding a private memorial.
Arrangements are under the direction of Columbia Hills Memorial Chapel, 300 W. Broadway Street (Post Office Box 134), Goldendale, Washington 98620, (509) 772-2636. Visit www. gardnerFH.com to share a story or leave a note for family.
Alex Chipman
October 1, 1992 - October 9, 2023
Alex was born in Olympia, Washington, to Glen and Carollynn (Brownfield) Chipman. He was brother to Brandon (Caletta,) Britney, Bryan, Tiffany (Nolan), Kayla, Tanner, and best friend baby brother, Patrick. He was uncle to Xavier, Hunter, Porter, and Asher. He was a grandson, nephew, cousin, friend.
Alex spent the majority of this life in the community
of Goldendale. Alex had a brilliant mind and a gentle soul. He had a desire to change the way people view Autism and mental health issues. He was a warrior to his family, fighting every day. Rest well. Soar with the eagles. Alex is deeply loved and will be greatly missed.
Burial services were held graveside at Herland Forest on October 13, 2023.
More obituaries on page A6.
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
Peggy Hunter Storkel went to be with her Lord and Savior on November 2, 2023, in Kent, Washington. Peggy was formally named Margaret Ona Hunter by her parents, Ralph and Ethel Hunter, at her birth on March 29, 1927. She lived in Goldendale all her 96 years except for one year while attending Linfield College in McMinnville, Oregon. She grew up on a rural Goldendale farm and went to Spring Creek School for grades 1 through 8. In her high school years, she attended Goldendale High School, where she met Loren Storkel, whom she married in June 1945. They
Mary Elizabeth Gosney was born November 22, 1931, to Henry Richard Cross and Ina Mae Beissel. She went to live with her Heavenly Father and Best Friend, the Lord Jesus Christ on November 28, 2023. She met her other best friend, Ray I. Gosney while attending CPS (College of Puget Sound) in Tacoma, Washington, while getting her teaching degree. They were married on June 21st, 1953, in Coupeville, Washington. They were married for 69 years. For one year they lived in Tacoma where she taught school while Ray finished his BA degree in theology. Mary was a rancher’s wife and did a lot to support Ray’s endeavors to raise alfalfa, wheat, cattle, and
Mary Rose Counts (Trull), 79, passed away on November 23, 2023, at her home in Goldendale. She was born on February 10, 1944, to James Trull and Veva Starit in Yakima, Washington. Veva died shortly after childbirth. James then married Lola House (Trull). They raised Mary Rose and her brother Jim Trull in Granger, Washington.
Mary Rose was a dedicated wife, mother, and grandmother. Mary Rose loved her children and
Peggy Hunter Storkel
were happily married for 57 years. She lived 68 years in her house on W. Darland, which now has new owners. Peggy was truly a Proverbs 31 woman: a wonderful wife, mother, homemaker, and Christian. God was the center and the motivation for everything she did. She was a woman of excellence and industriousness. Over her long life, she practiced the gift of hospitality often, being a marvelous cook. She was skilled in many areas, which included baking and designing wedding
cakes, baking pies for the local Dairy Bar eatery, and cooking for the Goldendale Elementary School. In partnership with her sisterin-law Maryanne Gibbs, they opened Goldendale’s first Christian bookstore naming it “The Lighthouse.” She also operated a successful homebased rubber stamp business. Peggy consistently served as a women’s leader in her church and Women’s Aglow; she regularly financially supported a number of charitable ministries, and prayed daily for her family,
Mary Elizabeth Gosney
their three daughters. She was a substitute teacher for the Goldendale, Centerville, and Roosevelt school districts. She was able to teach most of two different school years when the assigned teacher had other issues and could not finish their terms.
She was a member of the Goldendale United Methodist Church for many years and a member of the Rebekah (Odd Fellows) lodge. Ray and Mary were very active in community service projects, including helping to organize Red Cross blood drives in Goldendale.
Mary wanted to be able
to use the wheat that they grew. Ray found an old grain mill that they used for a while. But you had to run the wheat through seven times to make it fine enough to bake with.
So, Mary researched and became a distributor for Bosch and Magic Mill products. She taught classes on baking bread and sold those machines to those who also wanted to bake their own bread. She also baked homemade bread to sell at local bazaars and said that one of the local doctors always came early so he could be sure to buy a loaf.
Ray and Mary moved to Yakima in 2021 to be close
Mary Rose Counts
grandchildren more than anything. She and Mike rarely missed a football, volleyball, basketball, softball game, or track meet. She continued to follow her great-grandchildren in their sports as well. Mary Rose also enjoyed her time with her brother and his family. She treasured her beach trips with her granddaughters, Alex and Crysta, and nieces, Jayle and Jena. She also loved her and Mike’s trips with her brother and sister-inlaw and cousins.
Church Directory
GRACE BRETHREN
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.
friends, and church. She was an inspiring example of diligence and faithfulness in every area of her life. Peggy is survived by her sister, Lavona Fraychineaud; her children Kenneth Storkel, Ron Storkel, and Twila Davis; along with in-laws, nieces and nephews, grandchildren, greatgrandchildren, and greatgreat-grandchildren.
A memorial celebration service is planned for December 16, 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. at New Life Assembly of God in Goldendale, 1602 S. Columbus Ave. The community is invited.
to their daughter. Mary was preceded in death by her husband, Ray, her parents; Henry and Ina Cross; and daughter Inez (Mark) Crawford. She is survived by daughters Jacqueline (Charley) Chapman and Colleen (Antonio) Bucio; five grandchildren; and seven great-grandchildren. The family would like to thank all the caregivers at Highgate House for their excellent care and support as well as the Yakima Hospice team. A graveside service will be held on Saturday, December 9, 2023, at 11 a.m. at the Goldendale IOOF Cemetery, weather permitting. Arrangements are under the direction of Columbia Hills Memorial Chapel.
Mary Rose will be laid to rest between her late husband, Mike Counts, Sr., and her late son, Mike Counts Jr.
A memorial was held Saturday, December 2, 2023, at 2 p.m. at the Columbia Hills Funeral Home with a reception at 3 p.m. at the Goldendale Golf Club.
In her spare time, Mary Rose enjoyed reading, quilting, and gardening. She will be remembered for her sweet and loving personality.Mary Rose leaves behind her son and daughter-in-law, Matt and Sam Counts; her granddaughters, Alex Casimiro (Jose Casimiro) and Crysta Counts; her great-grandchildren Evalyn, Emmitt, and Cruz Casimiro; her brother and sister-in-law David and Lynn Counts; and several cousins, nieces, and nephews. She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Mike Counts; her son Mike Counts Jr.; her brother Jim Trull Sr.; and her parents.
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.
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
NON-DENOMINATIONAL
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."
purpose is to serve other people. It was ingrained in me: see a need, take the lead. So when I got here, I’m just looking for holes to fill—you need a night janitor, I’ll take it. You need an IT guy, I’ll take it. Some of my skill sets seem to align with some other areas. They moved me into HIPAA privacy, which is really an ethical and compliance area where we got to safeguard patient information, and we need to respect and value the trust they’re placing in us. I would investigate those from the IT perspective. I had access to the log, so I could see what people were doing. And then I’d have the conversations and investigate that. And they said, ‘Hey, you’re not too bad at that—what do you think about taking on compliance?’
“Then Jeff Teal, our compliance officer at the time and longtime KVH employee, started our behavioral health depart-
FENTANYL from page A1
yl. That stuff can kill you easy.”
“You just have to be real careful,” Bob responded. “But you don’t use at all, do you?”
“Me? I like my highs mellow and safe.”
“Grass?”
“I like the usual harder stuff—ya know, heroin, cocaine. But I’m not gonna die young.”
“So what’s the big deal with Simon, then? He’s a lot older, isn’t he?”
“He’s 38. I’m 22. But he’s good. He makes me laugh.”
Bob took a couple of aqua-blue fentanyl tablets and stuck them in his nose. “Hey, I can make you laugh, too.” And Rene did. She laughed even harder when, a few minutes later, Bob sold those same tablets and a couple dozen more to a customer. Then Bob opened a writing app on his phone, and recorded the transaction. “I gotta get restocked pretty soon,” he said. Rene was impressed.
Bob conducted most of his business in parking lots, usually high-traffic ones like at grocery stores. While he found the lots at big box stores could also be productive, there was too much traffic at those, which made him nervous. He didn’t like larger crowds; he preferred being able to track the people in his view, and if there were too many, he felt like he was losing control of his environment. A few months back, when it was just about impossible to get arrested for what he was doing, he could go up to any likely prospect and openly invite them to buy. Plus he had his regulars who knew where to find him most often. Life was good.
He told Rene one day he’d cleared $240,000 in the previous month. “It was a little slow,” he said. “Then you got all those taxes to pay.” He kept a straight face as Rene’s mouth dropped.
“What? You pay taxes?” Bob finally laughed. “No, I’m kidding.”
Rene felt more drawn to Bob. One night they were alone in the parking lot after a store had closed.
“Well, I’m finished with work for today,” Bob said.
“Hey, you know, I’m closer to your age, just 34. I make
CITY from page A1
ment. He mentored me for a couple years into the compliance world and just slowly handed off our compliance program and our compliance plan. And then Leslie [Hiebert, former CEO] approached me right around that time. She said, ‘The board wants me to do succession planning. There’s this big push in the Association of Washington Public Hospital Districts, and we really need to do succession planning for CEOs. I think you could do this.’ And I said, ‘Okay. That’s intriguing.’”
Hiebert and Hatfield had built a strong comradery and mutual trust. In 2009 and 2010, a regulatory mandate came down for electronic medical record systems. Hatfield was tapped to guide the hospital from paper to electronic tracking. That got heavily embedded in every part of the organization.
“When you’re implementing an EMR [Electronic
a lot of money, and I don’t use the heavy stuff. You should dump Simon and marry me.”
Medical Records] system, you’re, registering patients electronically,” Hatfield says. “You learn a lot of the workflows, a lot of the processes in the business office and patient financial services because the bills are getting submitted out of this. You learn the clinical side, because this is where we’re documenting. You learn about health information management, medical records, and what is a legal medical record, all those things. I really had an opportunity to expand my knowledge of healthcare operations through that.”
In all these steps, Hatfield was increasingly in contact with senior leadership in the hospital, eventually invited to their table to get more exposed to their administrative elements. He took on more departments. “I formed the informatics department. That’s a group of clinicians, most of them RNs, who work in the background of the systems
to create the electronic workflows. They would go between the tech team and the clinical teams—they were RNs who were tech savvy. And then they would train staff on how to use the electronic medical record systems.”
The hospital then put him into health information management, the medical records department. He was overseeing multiple departments. With the hospital board’s approval, Hiebert formalized a five-year succession plan to transition to Hatfield.
That was three years ago.
“Then earlier this year, Leslie came to me and said, ‘Hey, that timeline’s going to be accelerated.’” Hiebert left her position as CEO in October.
The board made some careful but quick decisions about how to handle the transition. In the end, they approved Hatfield as the new CEO. He has to complete his MBA, and
he’s within four classes of that. In the meantime, he’s focused on the outside of the hospital—its community relations—as much as on the internal processes.
“We want to be engaged in the community to meet the healthcare needs of the community,” Hatfield says. He points to the hospital’s direct employment contracts with emergency department (ED) physicians that afford a higher grade of accountability. New medical professionals continue to join the staff.
Hatfield wants to hear community concerns. “We want complaints to go to the manager of that department,” he states. “You can report them to our quality director, let us investigate them, and then let us report back what we found, what we did to fix it. Or if there’s a misunderstanding, help us. Allow us an opportunity to communicate it. We seek candid feedback.” The hospital became highly respon-
sive to repeated complaints about its billing procedures; with electronic processing now implemented, complaints have plummeted and positive results have risen.
He speaks to the recent bonds that failed to secure the 60 percent of votes required to pass. “But the voting public, the folks who participate in those votes consistently have been over 50 percent. It was 59 percent at one point, 57 percent I think the last time. Those voters said, ‘I will take money out of my pocket and give it to you to support what you’re doing.’ That’s not just satisfaction, right? That’s not just support, that’s support beyond, ‘Yes, I’m pleased with my hospital.’ We look at satisfaction ratings, we do surveys. We’re mandated to have third party surveys, and we look at those, and we consistently have really good reviews.”
Rene was touched but then considered: “I thought Simon was your friend.”
“My customers are not my friends,” Bob said. “I’m friendly with everybody. But I don’t really have friends. You could be my friend. We’d be great together.”
It all made sense to Rene. The next day she dropped the news to Simon.
It was time to restock, something Bob did regularly from the bigger fish in the fentanyl food chain. Bob drove over to where Chuck and Yoyo—his bigger fish— sometimes did business.
“Chuck’s Asian,” Rene explained. “Yoyo’s a mongrel. Bob thought it was
to know your face, and you might ask questions. They don’t like questions.”
Rene was moved by Bob’s concern for her.
Soon after this, they got married. Then, just a month later, Bob disappeared. Rene rebounded to Simon.
“What happened to him?” Simon asked through a cloud of fentanyl smoke.
“I don’t know,” Rene replied. “Chuck and Yoyo came down to our place when I was out to restock him again last week. Right after, Bob called to tell me they were really upset
about something, but he wouldn’t say what was going on. He just said they were like that sometimes, but it always blew over. Then I just never heard anything more from him, and I can’t reach him. His cell says his voicemail is full.”
Simon wanted to set a new date for a wedding with Rene. She was hesitant and asked for some time to think it over. Frustrated with him for drifting into yet another fentanyl stupor, she left to do some shopping.
She never got to respond
to Simon’s proposal. She returned a few hours later to find him dead. It was determined he’d died from a fentanyl overdose about an hour after Rene left. This noxious narcotic knows no bias. Continued overuse of fentanyl sooner or later leads to addiction, as it does with all opioids, including heroin, despite Rene’s belief that it, and cocaine, were “safe.” Misuse of opioids never is. As lesser evils than fentanyl, the only upside of the older standbys of cocaine and heroin is that they may kill less quickly.
strange that Chuck was the Asian; he thought his name shoulda been Yoyo.” Bob admitted later to Rene that he was not very good at matching up nationalities and names.
Chuck and Yoyo really didn’t need a house. Most often they plied their trade out of their modified SUV, back seats removed to allow more space. They used the house occasionally but generally preferred to stay mobile.
“Can I come with you?” Rene had asked just before Bob left.
“Can’t do it,” Bob answered. “They don’t need
Lou Marzeles
SAVE A LIFE BUT AT A COST: The Narcan machine in the lobby of Klickitat Valley Health. It dispenses free Narcan bottles. Narcan will save the life of a person overdosing, but the sudden drop from a fentanyl high will throw them into instant and horrifically painful withdrawal.
E xtra
The Washington Outdoors Report: Outdoors roundup
John Kruse For The SenTinel
METHOW WILDLIFE AREA AND WENATCHEE FOOTHILLS CLOSURE
A good portion of the Methow Wildlife Area will be closed to public access from December 15th through March 31. This area is an important habitat for a large herd of mule deer and covers nearly 35,000 acres.
The wildlife area is divided into seven units and five of them (Texas Creek, Golden Doe, Big Buck, Methow, and Rendezvous) will be closed.
Brandon Taylor, the Washington State Wildlife Area Manager, explains, “Human disturbance in winter range can result in deer unnecessarily expending vital energy reserves, which can directly affect survival and reproduction.”
The Methow Trail system, a popular cross-country skiing venue, will not be impacted by this closure.
This same rationale explains the annual winter closure of the Wenatchee Foothills trail system west of Wenatchee. According to Chelan County PUD, which
operates the Home Water Wildlife Preserve in the Sage Hills, the Sage Hills and Horse Lake Reserve trails will be closed from December 1st until early April. Mule deer migrate into this area beginning in December with their numbers peaking in March. Some trails in the Wenatchee area will remain open. This includes the trail to Saddle Rock, the Castlerock trail, the Jacobson Preserve, and of course, the Apple Capitol Loop trail.
RCO GRANTS
AWARDED TO PARKS
Washington State’s Recreation and Conservation Office announced it is giving out 4.7 million dollars in grants for 53 projects in 28 counties. The funds are being used to address maintenance backlogs in local parks. In our reading area, the following grants are being awarded:
CHELAN COUNTY
The Chelan Parks and Recreation Department has been awarded a $100,000 grant to seal cracks, repair some areas, recoat, and stripe parking lots in three of Chelan’s most significant parks: Don Morse Park,
the adjacent Lakeshore Marina (together comprising Chelan’s public waterfront), and Lake Chelan Golf Course.
The Manson Parks and Recreation District will receive a grant for $100,000 to repair the gravel parking lot in Singleton Park, a tenacre, day-use park that primarily offers sports courts and fields.
KLICKITAT COUNTY
A $43,000 grant is going to the Klickitat County Public Works Department. They will use this grant to buy materials and repair deteriorating structures in Trout Lake Park. The county will repair the roof on the gazebo; replace some siding, weatherize, and paint the restroom; patch potholes in the park’s main driveway and resurface some parking stalls; repair and paint the wood picnic tables; and replace worn cedar boards on the play structure. The work will extend the life of the facilities.
STEVENS COUNTY
$100,000 has been awarded to the City of Chewelah which will use this grant to restore the main entrance to Everett Jenne Park, which
experiences high traffic because of its location off U.S. Route 395. The park has an outdoor amphitheater that seats three hundred people, recreational vehicle facilities, and a farmers market. The park hosts festivals and other gatherings that draw fifty thousand visitors a year.
Next to the highway is a concrete plaza entrance that was cracked and replaced with gravel that now is uneven, unstable, and overgrown with weeds, and does not provide the desired barrier-free access. The city will remove the gravel and other barriers, pour concrete to create an entrance, replace the benches with accessible furnishings, and replace garbage cans. The city also will add chips to the playground and a retaining system to keep them in place.
Stevens County will receive a $100,000 grant to fix up Hunters Park. Hunters Park, which is in a low-income community, gets little use because of a lack of restrooms and seating areas. The county will replace the restroom roof and toilet and fix a leaky
pipe and the wood deck damaged by the leak. The county also will upgrade the electrical outlets, which are not to code and unable to hold a power load, install signs, trim trees around the building to allow access to walkways, replace park benches and picnic tables, fertilize and reseed a large grassy field, repair a hole in the kiosk building, and replace rotted fencing.
BRIAN VARRELMAN
PASSES
Brian Varrelman, a longtime guide and outfitter, died at the age of 71 on November 10. Brian was a rancher and outfitter who owned the Whistlin’ Pine Ranch and Sawtooth Outfitters at Alta Lake near Pateros. I had the opportunity to meet Brian 15 years ago when I was just starting out as the host of Northwestern Outdoors Radio and writing a guidebook called “Great Places Washington.” Brian was the past president of the Washington Outfitter and Guides Association and as the owner of Sawtooth Outfitters took clients on multi-day hunting trips for deer, bear, bighorn sheep, and mountain goats
in the Sawtooth and Pasayten Wilderness Areas in the late summer and early fall. In the spring and summer, he operated the ranch that boasted a number of campsites and several rustic cabins that fronted Alta Lake. Many campers went there for trout fishing, but the wildlife watching in the area is good too. Brian invited me up to the ranch one summer day back in 2008 to join him and a couple of clients for a four-hour horseback ride. The ride was amazing with some epic views but the thing I remember most was when the lead horse stirred up a ground nest of hornets and the rest of us had to gallop through the swarm of angry bees as fast as we could to avoid getting stung too much!
It’s definitely a ride I’ll never forget, and Brian was a true cowboy and outdoorsman I’ll never forget either. RIP.
John Kruse – www.northwesternoutdoors.com and www.americaoutdoorsradio. com.
Santa is coming to Goldendale Superior Court log
Santa is at the top of the list for Family Holiday Night on Saturday, December 16, from 6 to 8 p.m. at the Goldendale Grange Hall. The free event is open to all and will include ornament and cookie decorating and making a marshmallow snowman.
December’s Santa event and other family fun activities have been organized by the Coalition for Preventing Abuse in Klickitat County (CPAKC) and the Washington Gorge Action Programs (WAGAP) Housing office in Goldendale this year.
“We began this series of fun activities in July,” said Sunday Sutton, coordinator for CPAKC. “We wanted to offer more things for parents to do with their children in a family-friendly environment that encourages positive interactions.”
Nights for Bingo, games, painting, and movies have been some of the offerings. The group also held a community breakfast in September and had a night
with fall festivities, which included costumes, spooky games, and free pumpkins.
“These types of activities serve as a way for individuals, youth, and families to connect with one another,” Sutton said. “We want them to have opportunities to bond in a safe space.”
Additional partners have included the Fort Vancouver Regional Library and the Ross Foundation, along with individual community members who have helped to fund activities. Goldendale Market Fresh also helped to keep participants happy by providing free pumpkins during the fall festivities. Recent additions to the donor team are Amerigroup and Goldendale Pharmacy.
“We are so appreciative of our donors,” Sutton said. “Their participation is vital to the continuation of these events.”
When asked what got this series started, Sutton responded that there is a lot of research and science behind the importance
of community connections. It is a protective factor in helping youth make healthy decisions. Bonding with family is another protective factor in reducing youth risks. Community connection is also a protective factor for adults. “We all want to feel connected and accepted,” she said. “It’s really about heart,” she said. “We want all families to have opportunities to connect. Individuals who care enough to be there can make a big positive impact on the lives of children and their parents.”
Sutton hopes CPAKC and WAGAP can continue the monthly tradition with a little help from their Goldendale neighbors. “It takes a village,” she said as she offered her thanks to all the event volunteers. Anyone interested in donating or volunteering to be part of the family fun series can contact CPAKC at (509) 281-2330 or email sunday@ wagap.org.
Below is a summary of resolutions from the Superior Court criminal docket for the month of November 2023, provided by Klickitat County Prosecuting Attorney David R. Quesnel. Superior Court criminal dockets are generally the first and third Mondays of the month.
• State of Washington v. Jimmy K. Dawson, No. 19-1-00120-20, defendant pleaded guilty to Burglary 2nd Degree, RCW 9A.52.030, and Bail Jumping, RCW 9A.76.170, date of offense 11/21/19, and was sentenced to 4 months in jail.
• State of Washington v. Lance A. Stores, No. 22-100051-20, defendant was found guilty after a jury trial of Child Molestation
1sr Degree, RCW 9A.44.083, date of offense 6/01/22, and sentencing is set for 12/18/23.
• State of Washington v. Mary Kate Koskiniemi, No. 23-1-00005-20, defendant pleaded guilty to Assault of a Child in the Second Degree - DV, RCW 9A.36.130, date of offense 1/11/23, and on 11/20/23 was sentenced to 36 months DOC supervision under a Mental Health Sentencing Alternative, RCW 9.94A.695.
• State of Washington v. Alan J. Spino, No. 23-100047-20, defendant pleaded guilty to Unlawful Possession of Firearm 2nd Degree, RCW 9.41.040, and DUI, RCW 46.61.502, date of offenses 10/15/23, and was sentenced to 2 months in jail.
• State of Washington v. John M. Black, No. 23-100054-20, defendant pleaded guilty to felony Domestic Violence No Contact Order violation, RCW 7.105.405(5), and Possession of Methamphetamine, RCW 69.50.4013, date of offense 10/26/23, and was sentenced to 22 months in prison.
• State of Washington v. Murphy Admire, No. 23-100037-20, defendant was found guilty after a jury trial of felony violation of DV No Contact Order, RCW 7.105.450(5), and Resisting Arrest, RCW 9A.76.040, date of offenses 8/07/23, and on 11/20/23 was sentenced to 60 months in prison.
This Holiday Season...
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Local businesses and restaurants need your support more than ever this holiday season. And they’ve come up with creative ways for you to shop safely through delivery, pickup and online.
Find all the information you need to make the most of your holidays in your local newspaper. In print and online you’ll find the best shopping deals, ideas on what to do with your family and the latest news to help you celebrate safely this season.
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Check It Out
checkingout The LastColdPlace:AFieldSeasonStudyingPenguinsinAntarctica by NairadeGracia or TheWhiteDarkness byDavidGrannwillletyou experiencewhatitsliketoobservepenguinsandtrekaloneacross
(Family Features) Creating memorable moments and special meals with friends and family during the holiday season doesnt have to be overwhelming While these festivities are often a favorite moment each year, the planning and preparation can be a bear for hosts To help take some stressout of hostingduties start with what you likely already have onhand, like eggs This year simplify holiday gatherings by leaning into underappreciated ingredientsthat can make all kinds of recipes a cinch After all,lesstime stressing over planning shopping and prepping means more time to make memories that last a lifetime Whenit’stime for acelebration eggs are at the heart of many favorite recipes They are an invaluable ingredient to hosts delivering convenience and inspiration for hors d’oeuvres baked treats, traditional dishes perfectfor entertaining andmore Eggskeepbakedfavorites(and festivities) from falling flat In only 10 minutes prep time and with a few simple ingredients, you can make crowd-pleasing recipes like these Popovers with Cranberry Butter from best-selling author and international social media chef ShereenPavlides
Start by whisking the star of the show eggs with flour salt andmilktoasilky-smoothtexture
Cover and refrigerate the thin batter for 6 hours or overnight thenbakeinapopover pan(ortry amuffinpan) to warm eggy flaky perfection Then combine softened butter and cranberry sauce with a pinch
of salt before spreading on the melt-in-your-mouth popovers
For an extra special touch, consider whipping up homemade cranberrysauceratherthanusing astore-bought version
Whether it’s served as an appetizer or light dessert, this savory-with-a-touch-of-sweet recipe can become part of your family’s most cherished traditions,madepossiblebyeggs
Remember all it takes is the egg carton already in the refrigerator tobethe hostor hostesswiththe most-est” and make memories withthose whomatter most Don’t rule out the egg as a key ingredient for creating new experiences memories and traditions this holiday season Discover more benefits and recipes that go beyond eggspectations at IncredibleEgg org/invaluableegg
Popovers with Cranberry Butter Recipe courtesy of Shereen Pavlides (@CookingwithShereen) on behalf of the American Egg Board
To make popovers: In large bowl, whisk flour, salt, milk and eggs until silky smooth Add oil and whisk to combine Transfer to pourable pitcher cover and refrigerate at least 6 hours or overnight
Heat oven to 375 F
Place 6-cup popover pan in oven10 minutes
Remove pan and spray with nonstick cooking spray Stir batter divide and pour into cups filling each 3/4 full
Bake until puffed high and cookedthrough,45-50minutes
To make cranberry butter: In mediumbowl,mixbutter,cranberry sauceandsaltuntilwellcombined
Remove popovers from oven andserve withcranberry butter
NONFICTION
ForeignBodies:Pandemics Vaccines andtheHealth of Nations bySimonSchama AManofTwoFaces AMemoir a History aMemorial by VietThanh
My Facebook feed reminded me that exactly12yearsago Iwasconsideringbuying palazzopants I found this astonishing because just that dayIhadbeenlookingatpalazzopants, andI hadnotmentionedit to Facebook or anyone else, except my husband, Peter Peter did not evenknow whatpalazzopants are Youknow,theyhavereallywidelegs, Itold
him Isnt that what you justbought?
I honestly wonder if Peter notices anything atall ThepantsIjustboughtareharempants Theyhaveelastic aroundtheankles Theyare 100%cotton,andtheyaregreenandblueand have pockets They are fun to wear and very comfortable buttheyarecertainlynotpalazzo pants
Palazzopantshavebigbellsatthebottom
Andthey areusually slippery “Slippery?”
Yeah Kindof “Whatever” I could tell no useful wardrobe advice was goingtocomefromPeter ButImustadd inall fairness,healwaysdutifullytellsmeIlookfine in whatever I wear I did not buy palazzo pants 12 years ago Apparently I considered it but I remember I did not do it And I guess, after that first palazzo pant flirtation I thought the subject was closed, and I was simply not a palazzo pant wearer
But I have heard that the periodical cicada hatches every 17 years and wreaks havoc on the fruit trees and when I was young I saw a forest tent caterpillar outbreak, where every bit of green was devoured by nasty wormsthatappear every 10to16years Inow suspect that the urge to buy palazzo pants is somethingsimilar Itsbest tobeprepared
Once I was reminded of my close brush
with a palazzo pants purchase in the past I did what any sensible person would do I postedmydilemmaonFacebook telling folks that I was, once again, considering it My friends immediately weighedin “Resist that urge Carrie! Stay strong!” my friend fromcollege,Jennifer,wrote I think we need more baggy pants wrote Chris who is a man and like my husband obviouslyhadnoideawhatpalazzopantsare A couple of friends said “Go for it!” But I hadthe impression they would have saidthat if Id suggested shaving my head, getting a navel piercing or joining a cult These are good friends to have but not always the best sourceof objective advice Iwentbacktothestoretolookatthepalazzo pants in question I tried to imagine where I would wearthese pants andnothingcameto mind I could imagine them swishing around my ankles I would wear platform shoes and enormous hoop earrings I imagined the person I would be, wearing palazzo pants, anda wholenew worldopenedupbeforeme A worldthat inactual fact didnot exist Inthe end better senseprevailed I did not buy palazzo pants I left them hanging in the store where I am sure they will bepurchasedby someone much younger and hipper who already owns a lot of hoop earrings ButInow feelprepared I fully expect another attack of palazzo pants to hit I’ll be in my 70s when the next outbreak arrives and Ill be ready This time I suspect I will buy palazzo pants and I will probably not stop at a single pair By thetime Ihit80, 1may wearnothingbutpalazzopants Andthatsnotabadthingtolookforwardto check CarrieClassonAuthor on Facebook or visit CarrieClasson com
Did you know that Polar Bears are the largest of all the bears in the world? They are so big that they are the size of a small car. They live in the arctic and can swim for miles so they are classified as a marine mammal. Let’s take a look at these amazing animals that live in the arctic areas of the United States, Russia, Canada, Norway and Greenland. There are many different names for the polar bear. Some people call it the sea bear, ice bear or white bear. The Inuit people who are indigenous to the northern polar region call it Nanuk. Nanuk means the strongest of all bears and it deserves respect.
You would never guess that this giant began life weighing 1-2 pounds. That is the size of an adult squirrel! In two to three months the cubs already weigh 25-30 pounds. Most Polar bear moms have two babies at a time. These twins will live with their mom for the next two years learning to hunt and survive in some very harsh conditions. Within five years the cubs have become full grown adults. A male Polar Bear will weigh up to 1,200 pounds and a female will weigh up to 700 pounds. The largest Polar Bear recorded was 2,209 pounds and stood 12 feet tall. In order to help these giants walk on snow and paddle in the water an adult bear’s feet get as large as one foot wide.
What exactly does an animal the size of a car eat? They are carnivores. Unlike other bears who eat many different things, polar bears pretty much just eat meat. Their favorite foods are seals, walrus and anything else it can catch. They don’t even mind eating what is left of a whale that has washed on shore. An adult bear needs 12,000 calories a day to survive compared to a human adult that needs 2,000.
Polar bears are the kings of adaptation. Adaptation is the change made over time to help an animal survive. Polar Bears have many features that make it perfect for living in the arctic. We talked about the size of their feet but the pads on the bottoms of the feet are like rubber with little knobs called papillae. These keep the bears from slipping on ice. Another adaptation is their fur, which by the way is not white. They have a double layer of fur that helps keep them warm and dry. The clear hollow hairs help the bears take on the color of their surroundings. That’s why we think they are white. They are surrounded by snow and ice and it helps camouflage the bear. Their skin is another adaptation. It is black and that helps it absorb sunlight and stay warm. Polar bears also have a thick layer of fat called blubber. The blubber keeps them warm in freezing weather and in the cold water.
lar Polar ears Bears
Canada is the home to more than half of the polar bears in the world. Right in the middle of the polar bear range is a town called Churchill. Churchill is called the polar bear capital of the world. Many people actually plan vacations to Churchill so they can see the bears. A ride in a Tundra Buggy could get you face to face with one. Although many bears migrate through Churchill the native population knows how to live with the giant animals. Only two people have died there because of bear attacks since 1968.
Polar bears are listed as threatened under the Endangered Species Act. One thing that has caused the decline in population is pollution which reaches the bears through the food chain. From plants to fish, fish to seals, seals to bears. The pollution affects the health of the bears and their ability to survive. Another threat to the bears is global warming and the reduction of polar ice. What did the Polar Bear say when it saw a seal on a bike?
Meals on Wheels!
WAGAP Equity efforts grow
Tamara Kaufman For The SenTinel
One step at a time, that is how Washington Gorge Action Programs (WAGAP) is ensuring a deliberate and thorough approach to its dedicated Equity and Inclusion program.
Sasha Bentley is leading the charge as the new Equity and Inclusion director. She is working from the inside out, starting with bringing people together in an equitable and safe work environment. And the team wants to extend these principles to clients and the community. She is not alone. Prior to bringing Bentley into the role, the board of directors included Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion as part of the 2022 Five-year Strategic Plan and formed a DEI statement that pledges “to continue to provide a diverse, equitable, and inclusive environment dedicated to strengthening our community by inspir -
The grand marshal for this year’s Candy Cane Lane Parade this Saturday is Goldendale Mayor Mike Canon. Mayor Canon was appointed by Mayor Clint Baze to complete the remaining time of Baze’s term as mayor in September 2015. Mayor Mike was then elected to an additional two terms as mayor of the City of Goldendale.
ing hope and helping people help themselves.”
The overall goals include providing training, resources, and support; identifying, and eliminating barriers; fostering a culture of inclusivity and respect; and implementing strategies and initiatives to promote diversity and representation across all levels of the organization.
It starts with an equity audit and review, which leads to developing and implementing policies, procedures, and practices that promote equity and inclusion. This rolls into training programs as teams collaborate and will, over time, adjust the program for continuous improvement.
“We envision providing training opportunities and practical ways for individuals and organizations to put their newfound knowledge into action,” Bentley said. She is starting with board members and program directors and supporting
internal and program equity work.
One focus area has been supporting partnerships with native community organizations such as the Gorge Native American Collaborative. The WAGAP team helps to bring services to In-Lieu and Treaty Fishing Access Sites, such as holiday meal delivery and honoring Indigenous Heritage Month each November. Working together with regional partners like The Next Door, Inc., the team also makes programs like Energy Assistance more accessible.
Outreach to a wider variety of community members has been increasing over the past year. Staff have been participating in more resource fairs and cultural events, helping to build a wider network along with programs such as the Mobile Food Bank that help to reach even more rural community members.
The second year of cel-
ebrating Hispanic Heritage Month with the El Grito event in White Salmon brought more than 500 people to the park to enjoy music, food, games, and friendship.
One way Bentley is bringing team members together to be even more inclusive is to create activities that help them understand each other’s programs. During a recent staff day, they held an internal resource fair and did some role-playing to help employees visualize how clients go through the WAGAP system.
Along the way, a DEI library is being developed, and the team is planning collaborative training with groups like CultureSeed, which will be holding a follow-up training for the community next year surrounding trauma-informed care.
Expressing an ideal employee experience is part of the internal audit that staff have been working on. Bentley wants to go beyond
a simple checklist of how things are going now and help mold a better future for team members. She has held internal open houses, interviews, and roundtables to find common themes.
The effort has identified some priorities and introduced new dynamics and workgroups. Employees can participate in an evaluation team, a recruitment panel, a new tech working group, and a policy review committee. This is all part of enhancing collaboration in
a more inclusive way.
“The commitment and visionary leadership of the executive staff and board of directors are essential to this work,” Bentley said. “WAGAP’s investment in the Equity and Inclusion program is instrumental in driving positive change within our organization and our community.” Funding for these initiatives comes from various sources, such as the Inatai Foundation and Community Service Block Grants.
He and his wife retired to Goldendale in late 2004. He served six years as director of economic development for Klickitat County before retiring for a second time. His final and last retirement begins January 1, 2024. He is looking forward to gardening, traveling, and bird watching (hobbies of a sort) with his wife, Kathleen. The Canons have four children and five grandchildren, all living on the West Coast. Mike says serving as mayor of Goldendale has been a genuine honor and pleasure. He and Kathy are looking forward to enjoying life in Goldendale for years to come.
Mayor Canon wishes the wonderful folks of Goldendale a very Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!
Special Holiday Pricing to Celebrate the Season
FULL TREE: The Goldendale Soroptimist’s Mitten Tree at The Sentinel office has grown heavy with Christmas generosity. There’s still time to get your gifts there before they’re distributed.
