Goldendale Sentinel February 11, 2026

Headlines & History since 1879

Nine decades of FFA:

RichaRd LefeveR

foR The SenTineL

Nine decades ago, Agriculture Education and the FFA program became part of the Goldendale School District curriculum.

It was spring, 1936. Frank Stevens, a recent graduate of the University of Idaho College of Agriculture, was in search of a teaching job when Goldendale School District Superintendent Paul Johnson hired him as the first agriculture instructor. Funds to fully support the new program weren’t readily available following the Depression. The school board was only able to provide Mr. Stevens a small classroom in the basement of the old three-story brick high school on Academy Street. Instruction that first semester included the construction of the classroom furnishings, including student desks, the teacher’s desk, storage racks, and magazine racks. The entire school knew when Agriculture classes were in session by the constant hammering and a mist of sawdust that filtered through the entire school.

Only two agriculture courses could be offered during the first year—Beginning and Advanced Agriculture, both classroom courses. In the second year, shop classes became part of the curriculum when the school board elected to build a new wing on the

northeast corner of the old brick school. The new shop was established on the first floor of the addition, featuring a large shop door oriented to the east for working on large agricultural equipment. Due to ongoing local financial constraints after the Depression, funding for the construction of the shop complex was secured through a federal grant provided under the SmithHughes Vocational Education Act of 1917. For reference purposes, the former brick high school building in Goldendale bore a strong resemblance to the current school building in Centerville, though it was considerably larger. Both schools were built in 1919.

Students enrolled in Agriculture courses in 1936 included: Adian Fuhrman, Lawrence Schroder, Henry Schroder, Harold Hill, Archie Esteb, Lyle Helfer, Bob Imrie,

The picture was taken in front of what is now the school district administration office looking north. At right: the old

Part I. The first 30 years

Charles Kayser, Robert Walker, Sheldon Dugger, Junior Brokaw, Elmer (Dan) Roe, Vernon Divers, Gerald Hamilton, Jack Trumbo, Gene Cooper, John Hatfield, Bill Yeley, Dwight Dingmon, Clifford Brack, Ray Brack, Charles Hoctor, Lawerence Rutledge, Harold Prothero, Brain Babcock, Milburn Nordwell, and Donald Miller. Many of these names are still familiar names 90 years later. Mr. Stevens taught agriculture for five years before leaving in 1941 to teach Ag at Highland High School in Cowiche, Washington. Chuck Gronewald moved to Goldendale in the fall of 1941 from Prescott, Washington, where he taught Agriculture for two years following his graduation from Washington State University. He taught vocational agriculture at Goldendale for 29

years, retiring in 1970.

Several of Chuck’s first-year students also remain prominent in the community, including Charles Lenoir, Walt Smith, Charles Swan, Laine Walker, Ray Gosney Jr. Irvin Hunter, Jack Davenport, Elvis Clary, Bud Mesecher, Ben Owens, Leo Swan, Ed Van Aelst, Emmett Hoctor, Ray McKinney, Ivan and Vernon Weltzin, Bill Sarsfield, Loren Storkel, George Durant, and Don Hoctor. Girls were not allowed into the program until the late 1960s. A significant change to the agriculture program occurred in 1956 when Mr. and Mrs. William F. Hornibrook generously donated a 190-foot by 356-foot parcel of land to the Goldendale School District for the purpose of establishing a modern agricultural facility. The new complex, located south of what is now the middle school, was designed to include two classrooms, an agricultural shop, a wood shop, and a machine shed. This former agricultural facility is presently utilized as the school district administration building.

When the Hornibrooks made their land donation to the school district, they were also promoting the Hornibrook and Hawthorn housing subdivisions east of what is now the middle school. In 1956 that school was referred to as the school on Collins Street. Only sev-

This time last year: top stories

On our front page this time last year was a tidbit about an attempt to generate tourism in Klickitat County by “creating” a new creature: One of the most intriguing items came towards the end of the afternoon regular session, when commissioners heard updates from Goldendale and Mt. Adams Chamber of Commerce Executive Directors Teja Finch and Tammara Tippel, respectively. Tippel said one of the biggest things going on in the west county is a tourism initiative based on the paranormal.

“Margie’s Outdoor Store is the hub for that,” she said. “They really turned this into a serious marketing strategy. In 2018, Scot-

County acquires staff in hiring exceptions

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foR The SenTineL

The Klickitat County hiring freeze melted a little last week.

Commissioners approved three exemptions brought forward by County Administrator Robb Van Cleave at their February 3 meeting. One, he explained, was for a payroll position in the auditor’s office, and two were for dispatch. At an earlier meeting, commissioners discussed the dispatch staff shortage and the resulting stress the remaining dispatchers, who are stretched thin, to cover heavy overtime hours needed to supply roundthe-clock protection.

“The basis of the contract is we get two full-time dispatchers for eight months, or four dispatchers for four months, based on the hours,” Van Cleave said. “We may have to go to the four dispatchers for four months, and if things don’t get better, we may have to come back and extend the contract for another four months.”

Commissioners get an update on activities in Olympia every other week when the legislature is in session. February 3 was one of those times.

Potts & Associates lobbyist Zak Kennedy has a refreshing candor about the process:

“It’s looking pretty ugly out there right now,” he said, “in terms of where the money’s going to go, and where to get the money. Of course, the governor did the road show, and told everybody, ‘We’re going to get you funded this year. We’re going to get this thing done.’ I’m sure that they’re really appreciating his commitment to fund everything, but I don’t

land Tourism determined the Loch Ness Monster was dragging in 54 million dollars a year just because of the Loch Ness Monster mystery.” People involved with the promotion have gone to the lengths of making up—or discovering, take your pick—a new cryptid. A cryptid is a creature that is said to exist but has not been proven to, like Bigfoot or the Loch Ness Monster. Their entry for the newest member of the cryptid family is the Klickitat Ape-Cat, a black panther-like beast standing six feet tall at the shoulders and is said to haunt the Columbia River Gorge. Come hunt for them, tourists, promoters say— and bring your money.

State sees drop in insurance coverage

About 19,000 fewer Washingtonians enrolled in health insurance through the state’s online marketplace amid the loss of federal subsidies. The decline didn’t appear to be as precipitous as feared. State officials had predicted 80,000 people would forgo coverage if Congress didn’t extend the enhanced premium tax credits for those purchasing the policies. But officials fear the drop could get steeper in the coming months as enrollees fail to pay premiums.

During open enrollment, which ran from Nov. 1 to Jan. 15, more than 290,000 residents signed up for insurance through the Washington Health Benefit Exchange. That’s compared to 309,000 during this period the previous year. The exchange is generally used by people who do not have access to health insurance through their jobs or from government programs, like Medicaid.

Exchange CEO Ingrid Ulrey said the drop in coverage “could’ve been much worse,” but cautioned it’s still a “pretty significant dip from last year.”

“We’re starting from a lower

peak and we’re going to go down further than we have in the past,” Ulrey added. “People are going to see their bills and just say ‘I can’t do this.’”

The federal government was shut down for over a month last fall as Democrats demanded the extension of the tax credits that expired at the end of 2025 and Republicans refused.

“Republicans made tax breaks for billionaires permanent and cut health care to do it. Now, we are only just beginning to see the fallout of that decision,” U.S. Sen. Patty Murray, D-Wash., said in a statement, referring to tax cuts

Republicans included last year in their “big, beautiful bill.” Nationally, about 1.2 million fewer Americans signed up for marketplace coverage than in the previous year. These insurance policies are available under the Affordable Care Act.

Those who choose to go without insurance are more likely to be healthy, likely fueling premium hikes for those who remain insured, as the insurance pool would be less healthy overall and more risky for insurers.

State officials say Washington’s efforts, including Cascade Care

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WaShingTon STaTe STandaRd

The Legislature’s biggest tax bill of the year had its first hearing last Friday. For about 90 minutes, supporters and opponents of the proposed 9.9% tax on personal income over $1 million a year packed into Hearing Room 4 at the J.A. Cherberg Building and had their say. The tax is expected to generate about $3.4 billion the first full fiscal year it’s in effect — a sum just under 10% of the state’s current annual operating budget. Testimony exposed the chasm between those who think the bill will make the tax code fairer and those who think it will drive wealthy individuals and businesses out of the state.

“I am someone who would pay the millionaire tax, and I’m here in support,” said Jed Fowler, president of HD Fowler, a family-owned company that sells waterworks equipment. “I’m willing to pay this tax. I should pay this tax. Others like me should pay this tax.” Brian Heywood, the hedge fund manager turned initiative bank-roller and conservative provocateur, delivered a counterpoint.

“This income tax would hit me personally. But, like many in my position, I’ve got options. I can change my domi-

KVH expands Wellness Days screenings

Klickitat Valley Health (KVH) is expanding Wellness Days, a self-pay health screening program designed to improve access to preventive services for community members. Previously offered once a year in the fall, Wellness Days screenings are now available year-round.

To get started, community members may walk in for lab draws Monday through Friday from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m., or they may bring a completed Wellness Days menu to Patient Access. KVH staff will route their information and selected screenings to the appropriate departments. Participants choose the tests

they want from the published menu and pay out of pocket at the time of service.

In addition to basic laboratory testing, Wellness Days include expanded screening options that are not always easy to access in rural communities. These services include outpatient home sleep studies for individuals who may be at risk for sleep apnea, coronary artery calcium CT scoring to assess heart disease risk, and vascular ultrasound screening to evaluate blood flow and circulation.

Laboratory screening options include cholesterol, blood sugar, thyroid test -

ing, prostate screening, and vitamin D levels. Together, these services are intended to provide a broader picture of overall health and help participants identify potential risks early.

Some services offered through Wellness Days require eligibility screening and advance scheduling. Respiratory and diagnostic imaging tests are often not available the same day. Community members who indicate interest in these screenings will be contacted by representatives from KVH’s outpatient respiratory therapy or diagnostic imaging departments to review eli-

Fatal accident on 97

A fatal three-vehicle collision on State Route 97 just outside Goldendale claimed one life and injured another early Sunday morning last week, according to the Washington State Patrol.

The crash occurred on February 2 at approximately 7:30 a.m. near Milepost 11 on Highway 97. Washington State Patrol responded to reports of a collision involving two semi-trucks and a passenger vehicle, later identified as a Mercedes Sprinter van. Only three people were involved in the incident.

According to authorities, the driver of the Sprinter van was pronounced dead at the scene. One other individual was injured and transported to Klickitat Valley Hospital, while the remaining driver was not injured.

Dakota Russell, public information officer for Klickitat County and surrounding areas, provided details of the incident in a statement to The Sentinel. “We had one vehicle traveling southbound on 97 at Milepost 11,” Russell said. “Vehicle two was traveling northbound on 97 at Milepost 11. Vehicle one crossed the center line and

collided with vehicle two, with both vehicles coming to a rest on opposite shoulders. Then vehicle three just failed to stop and drove through the debris from the collision.”

According to a Washington State Patrol (WSP) report, the first vehicle was a Mercedes Sprinter van traveling southbound. The second vehicle was a 2024 Volvo VNR semi-truck hauling a trailer and traveling northbound. Investigators determined that when the Sprinter crossed the center line, it resulted in a head-on collision with the semi.

The impact caused both vehicles to leave the roadway. Each came to rest on opposite shoulders of the highway. Both vehicles sustained extensive damage and were declared totaled.

The driver of the Mercedes Sprinter van was identified as Oleksandr Orlov, 42. He was pronounced dead at the scene. Russell confirmed that next of kin had been notified.

The driver of the Volvo semi-truck was injured in the collision and transported by emergency medical personnel to Klickitat Valley Hospital. The extent of the driver’s injuries and current condition were not immedi-

ately available. A third vehicle, a white 2019 Freightliner semi-truck, was also involved after the initial collision. According to Russell, the Freightliner failed to stop in time and drove through debris left in the roadway from the earlier crash. The driver of that vehicle did not suffer any noticeable injuries.

While the Freightliner was not totaled, the truck sustained visible damage.

Asked whether drugs or alcohol were suspected as contributing factors, Russell said that information was incomplete.

“It is unknown on the two surviving parties,” Russell said. “As far as the driver that was pronounced

gibility and, if appropriate, schedule testing at a later date.

Additional services, such as massage therapy and toenail care, also require scheduling. Patients who express interest in these services will be contacted directly by the department providing the service to arrange an appointment.

All services offered through Wellness Days are screening services only. They are not diagnostic, are not intended to replace care from a medical provider and should not be used for emergency or urgent medical needs. Anyone experiencing

deceased, it is also unknown. We won’t know until the toxicology screen results come back, which usually takes several months.”

WSP officers arrived at the scene at approximately 8:15 a.m. The highway was closed for several hours as emergency responders worked the scene and investigators documented evidence.

Traffic on State Route 97 was rerouted while the roadway remained closed. The road reopened at approximately 1:07 p.m., once the vehicles were removed and the scene was cleared.

Authorities have not determined whether weather conditions played a role in the crash. The investigation remains ongoing.

symptoms or a medical emergency should seek immediate care through appropriate emergency services.

Patients who receive Wellness Days screenings and use providers outside of KVH are responsible for sharing their screening results with their external providers. For patients who receive ongoing care at KVH, screening results will be available to their KVH providers through the medical record. Test results will be released through the patient portal and will not be mailed or communicated by phone. Participants are responsible for reviewing their results

and arranging any needed follow-up care.

“Wellness Days are one way KVH supports healthy living by increasing access to preventive screening services close to home,” said Erin Wooley, chief clinical officer. “These screenings can help people take an informed first step, but they are not a substitute for medical care when someone is sick or injured.”

Community members can find additional information, a full menu of available services, and current pricing on the KVH website at: kvhealth.net.

The City of Goldendale is accepting applications for low income senior citizen water/sewer discounts now thru April 15th. If you received this discount during the last year, your application needs to be renewed.

If you feel you qualify, please contact: City Hall 1103 S Columbus Ave, Goldendale, WA 509.773.3771

G oldendale ’ s a ttic

This week’s Goldendale’s Attic Mystery Picture

A band photo, and they were on a playing field— you can see a goal post and cheerleaders. Each band member has a big “G” on the front, so we’re surmising this is Goldendale. Any idea who these people are? We don’t. All we know is this picture ran in The Sentinel

sometime, lost in the annals of yesteryear. If you know anything about it, please send us an email (info@ goldendalesentinel.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

February 3, 1906 – 120 Years Ago

Roosevelt threatens to become a lively little town. The survey of the new town site of Roosevelt, on the north bank railroad line, has just been completed by Surveyor Arthur Richardson. The location lies on deed land owned by T. B. Montgomery, a prominent sheepman of Klickitat County, and county treasurer. The tract comprises 12 acres divided into 55 blocks each 300 feet square. Many investors were on the ground January 31st, the buyers being principally from Goldendale. About 50 lots have been sold, the prices ranging from $25 to $100. Among the buildings contemplated for early erection is a large merchandise store to be built by Sam Waters, George Stackhouse, L. F. Duncan. One saloon building is to be built at once, and it is understood a second structure for the same purpose will soon follow. A post office and a stage line are to be installed at an early date.

February 4, 1926 – 100 Years Ago

The Spedis Station east of Granddalles on the SP&S railway, has been changed to Spearfish. Reports from railroad circles are to the effect that the name of Fallbridge will be changed to Wishram on March 1.

February 14, 1946 – 80 Years Ago

Mayor Harold Wolverton announced Tuesday that he had purchased the Enderby building on West Main from Chester Enderby, who has been operating a repair shop in the building for the past several years. The building will house the Spickerman Ford Garage until they are able to obtain possession of the former Ledbetter building on West Broadway. It is reported that Enderby had disposed of his equipment to the Spickerman brothers and that the building would be occupied by them as soon as possible. Dick Spickerman said he would probably use the building as a used car agency following their move to the other quarters. Mr. Enderby made no announcement regarding his future plans.

February 5, 1970 – 55 Years Ago

Delivering The Sentinel to Bickleton is a challenging affair; At this point we must explain that if travel is broadening, nobody gets a broader paper than our Bickleton subscribers. Part of our news comes to us from Bickleton by mail. After that, we get it set up and the page layouts pasted up. We take them over to The Dalles where they are photographed, plates made, and the paper run off on their press. We load them into a station wagon just before 5 p.m. and race back to Goldendale, where we put names on paper. The bundles go into the mail bags, and we try to get them into the post office before the last mail truck leaves just before 6 p.m. It hauls them high speed to Portland, where with good luck they make it onto the night train that races them back up the Columbia Gorge through Roosevelt without stopping and on to Pasco, where they lie panting in the post office until an early morning truck rushes them back to Roosevelt and dumps them at the door of the post office. By then the star route carrier has had a good night’s sleep, and he throws them into his car for the final leg of the journey, up the “up” road to Bickleton. Of course, a few go to people on ranches close to Roosevelt, but on “Star Route Bickleton” there are some who don’t get their paper until late afternoon, on the “down trip”, which is the star route carrier’s return journey. The Sentinel travels 500 miles to reach some east county subscribers.

February 5, 1976 – 50 Years Ago

Wishram girl among youngest “libbers”: She’s probably the youngest women’s libber in the country, but little Jill Annette Garrett has already asserted her rights, although she is only 4 days old. A short time ago, the Wishram basketball team hosted a baby shower for the expectant parents, Mr. and Mrs. Bob Garrett, presenting them with a basketball. The ball, autographed by all the members of the team, was for the “expected” new team mascot. But when that personage arrived at The Dalles Hospital Jan. 27 as an 8 lb.-11 oz girl, Rebekah Firth, another teacher at Wishram, righted the team’s error by hurriedly purchasing a volleyball and presenting it to the little miss. The little girl, a first child, is also welcomed by grandparents Mr. and Mrs. William Garrett, and Mr. and Mrs. Eddie Gabbert, Wishram.

— Richard Lefever Klickitat County Historical Society

Points to ponder:

How many telemarketers does it take to change a light bulb? Only one, but that’s if you act now and have your credit card ready.

How many folk musicians does it take to change a light bulb? Two, one to screw it in and one to complain that it’s electrified.

How many bureaucrats does it take to change a light bulb? Two, one to assure us that everything possible is being done to effect the change while the other one screws the bulb into a water faucet.

How many hospital administrators does it take to screw in a light bulb? That depends on if the bulb has health insurance.

Picture

You can learn a lot about

OpiniOn

The second Friday in January is often referred to as “Quitter’s Day,” the point when many New Year’s resolutions have already been abandoned. Goldendale School District’s strategic plan calls for students to set goals, reflect on their progress, take ownership, and accept feedback. So if many adults struggle to sustain goals for even a few weeks, how do we intentionally support students in developing these skills over time? In our schools, goal setting is treated as a process rather than a single event. Students learn to identify meaningful goals, break them into manageable steps, and check in regularly on their progress. Reflection plays a key role in this work. When students pause to consider what is working and what needs adjustment, they begin to understand that growth develops over time through effort and attention.

Achievement, then, becomes more than a final outcome. It reflects persistence, problem-solving, and the willingness to continue working through challenges. Students are encouraged to revisit goals, refine strategies, and keep moving forward, even when progress feels slow.

Guest Column

Ellen Perconti, GSD Superintendent

Feedback is an essential part of that journey. Across classrooms, students practice listening to feedback, asking questions, and applying suggestions to improve their work. These experiences help students see feedback as a tool for learning—one that supports improvement and builds confidence over time.

Students need repeated opportunities to struggle productively—to try, reflect, and try again. When a student doesn’t meet a goal, the most important question isn’t “Why didn’t you do it?” but “What did you learn, and what’s your next step?” This shift helps students see feedback not as criticism, but as information they can use.

Taking ownership of learning is closely connected to these skills. When students understand the role their choices play in their progress, they begin to see themselves as active learners. They learn when to seek help, how to adjust their approach, and how to stay engaged with their goals.

Adults reinforce this learning every day. Students notice how teachers, families, and community members approach challenges, respond to feedback, and persist through setbacks. Modeling reflection, flexibility, and perseverance sends a clear message that learning continues well beyond the classroom.

“Quitter’s Day” offers a helpful reminder that goal setting is challenging—and that persistence is learned through practice and support. By focusing on goal setting, reflection, feedback, and ownership, In the Goldendale School District, our goal isn’t to create students who never struggle. It’s to support learners who know how to keep going when they do.

THE GOLDENDALE SENTINEL

Official newspaper of Klickitat County, Washington

Established 1879 • Published every Wednesday from offices at 117 W. Main Street • Goldendale, WA 98620 • Telephone: (509) 773-3777

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(Display advertising information and inquiries)

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Payables@goldendalesentinel.com

Receivables@goldendalesentinel.com

Events @goldendalesentinel.com (Events and activities)

Editorial: Lou Marzeles, Editor & Publisher

Business and office staff: Owned by Tartan Publications, Inc.

Leslie Geatches, President, Financial management, Special Section production, Ad Design Naomi James, Bookkeeping

Letters from the community

The difference two letters make

Four stalwart women on the Fort Vancouver Regional Library Board stood for rational thought within that taxpayer supported organization. Liberals predictably are distressed that the term “equity access” was struck from the district’s mission statement.

The words “equity” and “access” have become hard-left political terms that enable such things as mainlining harrowing sexual materials directed at children in the library.

Word meanings, terms, and language are too often corrupted by the left. Original words are kept but their meanings are changed to the opposite. This includes diversity and inclusion and a treasure chest brimming with other politicized words and terms that essentially become anti-words in practice.

Burn-out has got to go

Equality is reframed to its opposite, equity. Switching word meaning is valued by progressives. The sole advantage is to favor rights but according to group identity.

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

get to its counterfeit version to favor themselves.

Mike Goodpaster Goldendale

An answered prayer

The January 26 board meeting of the Fort Vancouver Regional Library system was an answer to many prayers for those of us who value a commonsense approach to the way material that is harmful to children is housed and displayed in our library system.

for three hours.

True equality, conversely, values the rights and duties of all individuals rather than collective rights found in equity.

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.

In practice, equity is just one in a menu of words that says one thing but means opposite.

It favors some people over others while pretending to champion them all.

It must follow that if progressives favor some, there must be other people and groups who are on the outside. This is real shape of equity.

Don’t expect people who seek advantages for their personal advantages gained through devices such as equity to suddenly realize that they are discriminatory.

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.

Or that their idea of equity might or should accept that others have a right to a different perspective than themselves.

In the case of the four FVRL officials, they again made a rational decision, as they perhaps know how political equity has been reframed to favor the left.

True equality escapes the Democrat. It doesn’t fit their narrow political worldview that demands bias. Nor is the idea that a simple majority can or should prevail in all situations.

Those who favor equity over equality should be able to discuss the stark difference between the two. Again, this is why they use the term equity over equality and also inclusion, rather than the more truthful term—exclusion.

The board voted 4 to 3 to adopt a strategic plan which includes the wording the “freedom to read, learn and explore ideas” while respecting “the role of parents and caregivers in guiding their children.” This was an alternative to the option that included the words “equity for all” and “intellectual freedom for all,” which is code speak for allowing children access to all content without restrictions. Under this language, many people were pushing for the reintroduction of programs such as “drag queen story hour” as an example of “equity.” Under the guise of “equity,” things that many of us have worked hard to change at our local library could be easily brought back. These include the displaying of sexually explicit graphic novels in the children’s and teen sections, the entire children’s section being turned into a rainbow land in the month of June, the ability for adults without children to hang out in the children’s section, and violent shoot-’em-up video games being played on computer screens by kids 20 feet from the toddler section.

Ken McKune Goldendale

C

The library should be a safe place for all people to come, a place where content is not banned but is stored in its proper sections and where political and sexual agendas can be researched and explored by individuals without exposing the rest of us to it by force through the use of displays of certain kinds of books.

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.”

sheriff in each county. There have been several bills that have placed state restrictions on immigration enforcement, also preventing state law enforcement from supporting the capture and housing of illegal criminals. They are pushing for reducing prison time for sex offenders and for no registration and supervision requirements. These are people who sexually abuse children. Because they were caught in a sting operation just means this time they were caught before they could do any damage. So far, many legislators are pursuing for tax and fee increases in Washington State. Right now, the median household income is $95,000 per year, making it almost impossible for the average person to live here. All the legislation that is being pushed looks like we are a test state for the Democratic Socialist Party of America.

It is time to start electing different people and give the Republicans a chance to put conservative polices in play. If you want to make Washington more livable, you have a chance in the 2026 and 2028 elections.

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.

Dan Hartford Lyle

Betrayal

If you voted for Donald Trump, it is likely that you did not vote for him to take $10 billion of taxpayer dollars and give it to himself. But that’s exactly what he’s doing. He claims that a contractor who released his tax returns without authorization caused him a loss of $10 billion, a precise and tidy sum, thank you very much. So, he’s suing the government for this arbitrary $10 billion figure, and he’s made it known he’ll order government administrators to hand him the dough.

Ken Margraf Goldendale

I am thankful for all the work that our board member, Olga Hodges, and the local library staff have done to create a safe place here in Goldendale for people of all ages.

Sarah Johnson Goldendale

“For No Reason At All” I particularly found offensive.

As with the FVRL decision, liberals are often amazed when others do not simply rubber-stamp their ideas.

Democrats can’t wrap their heads around true equality, so they simply removed two letters in that word to

Vote red

You have a choice: what kind of state do you want to live in?

We have seen the ambitious legislation that would take control of county law enforcement and turn it over to the Governor’s Criminal Justice Commission, which is staffed with unelected officials who would basically decide who would be the

Guidelines for Letters

That money comes from the government’s general fund—your and my taxpayer dollars. When we pay up to the IRS, part of that money is going to Donald Trump. This is the same Donald Trump whose fortune has increased by $1.4 billion in the first year of his second term. If you voted for Trump, it is likely that a lot of what that man is doing to enrich himself and horde power isn’t what you were hoping for. If you look at what he’s done with clear eyes, you see that he’s more focused on enriching himself, accumulating power, and having his name blazoned across every building and airport he can.

He has betrayed us all.

Letters to the editor should be original and comment on an issue. Deadline for letters is noon Monday for the same week’s paper.

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O BITUA RY

Jacquelene “Jackie” A. Spaulding

Jacquelene

“Jackie” A. Spaulding passed away on January 27, 2026, at her home in Goldendale. She was born November 24, 1930, and was 95 years of age at her death. She is survived by her daughters Donita Budler, Lynn Carman, and Vicki Presely; and son Steven Spaulding. Rest in Peace, Momma. You will be missed.

Lorrie Fox For The SenTinel

What’s the buzz all about in Klickitat? It’s coming from Main Street, where The Hive has opened at 105 Main Street, blending Argentine-inspired food, a full bar, and a welcoming space for locals of all ages.

The Hive is owned by Matthew Leffler, a Wahkiacus resident with 12 years of experience in the restaurant and bar industry. After spending several years away, he said he wanted to open a business closer to home and “share the amazing food culture I grew up with in Argentina, where I spent 26 years.

“I wanted to create job opportunities close to home,” Leffler said. “When I came across this location, I saw its potential and began renovating it in May 2025.”

The building retains its retro 1970s chic, while the interior provides a relaxed atmosphere that fosters a sense of community. A living room–style area at the back features board games and a Nintendo 64 for kids to play at no cost. On the bar side, patrons can enjoy a free pool table, darts, and televisions showing live sporting events.

“It’s about creating a place where people want to spend time,” Leffler said. “Whether that’s families, friends, or folks just stopping in after work.”

The Hive’s menu reflects

Leffler’s two-plus decades in Argentina. Current offerings include empanadas, pizza, a Criolla salad, and flan. A house burger is expected to debut in March, followed later by milanesas, a popular Argentine comfort dish. Leffler said that while the restaurant is starting small, they plan to source more local ingredients as the business grows. For Leffler, the 1970s charm of the building and

the people he works with are among the best parts of running The Hive. Klickitat sits along State Route 142, which serves as the town’s Main Street and connects it with Lyle to the west and Goldendale to the east. The route follows the Klickitat River through scenic canyons and forested hillsides, passing the Klickitat State Wildlife Area and the Klickitat Trail. Visitors can also locate the restau-

rant by searching “The Hive Klickitat” in their preferred map app.

The Hive is open Thursday through Sunday from 1 to 11 p.m., with the kitchen closing at 9 p.m. As The Hive settles into the community, Leffler hopes it becomes more than just a place to eat—a gathering spot where good food, games, and conversation come together in small-town Klickitat.

Whether

E xtra

Wolves head to Districts

AliciA HAtfield

For The Sentinel

Last week playoff games were held to get into districts.

The Wolves faced a tough challenge at home on Monday against Burbank, ultimately falling 77-69 despite a valiant effort that showcased impressive individual performances. The loss moved the Wolves to 17-5 on the season, but there were plenty of bright spots to build on from this competitive matchup.

The game got off to a back-and-forth start with early lead changes, but Burbank seized control midway through the first quarter with a devastating 12-point scoring run that put them ahead 15-5. The Wolves showed great resilience by closing the gap to just four points at halftime, 27-23, thanks to strong performances from the Hatfield brothers. Grant Hatfield battled inside all game long, finishing with 18 points on 6-of-14 shooting while adding 5-of-7 from the free-throw line, while Brody Hatfield matched his brother’s 18-point output with

FFA from page A1

en homes in 1956 existed east of the school and south of the hospital. As new homes in these subdivisions were built, they created both a teaching experience and a money-making opportunity for the FFA program. Owners of these new homes asked the ag boys to prepare the soil and plant grass for lawns. One of the first and biggest projects taken on by the boys was planting grass around the new hospital in the early 1950s. When food rationing was implemented at the beginning of World War II, Chuck and his boys saw this as an opportunity. They bought baby chicks, fed them until they reached 4 pounds, and turned them into fresh fryers. Each year the FFA would raise from 300 to over 1,000 fryers. In the early years when the chicken processing took place in the basement of the old brick school, chicken feathers would fly, and a few of them got tracked around the school building, creating ruffled feathers of a different kind.

After processing the birds, the boys would go door to door around town selling them as fresh fryers. This was before plastic bags and freezers were in every home. The boys carried these freshly butchered fryers by bare hand to each house in town. Today, it is difficult to envision someone opening their door to a group of boys attempting to sell unwrapped, unrefrigerated chickens carried in their bare hands.

During its first three decades, Goldendale FFA pro -

INSURANCE

from page A1

Savings for people who make up to 250% of the federal poverty line, helped mitigate the loss of the federal subsidies. More than 118,000 Washington Healthplanfinder customers are receiving this state premium assistance this year, up from 115,000 last year, according to the data released Friday.

But the state says this assistance won’t be sustainable beyond this year, especially as other federal health policy changes take effect.

“We’re in jeopardy for 2027, ’28, and ’29 and beyond,” Ulrey said. “The hill that we’re climbing is only getting steeper.”

Rural counties were hit hardest by the loss of federal tax credits.

Premiums for individual insurance bought on the Washington Health Benefit Exchange rose an average of 21%, due in part to the loss of the enhanced tax credits, which started during the COVID pandemic. This increase was in line with similar hikes nationwide.

Enrollees losing their enhanced tax credits could see monthly premiums double or triple. Or worse.

stellar three-point shooting, connecting on 4-of-7 attempts from beyond the arc. The third quarter proved challenging as Burbank opened with another strong run, but the Wolves never stopped fighting. Seth Wilder was incredibly efficient throughout the contest, shooting an outstanding 75% from the field (6-of-8) to finish with 12 points. The fourth quarter belonged to Alias Butterfly, who provided a spectacular shooting display by going a perfect 4-for-4 from three-point range, finishing with 12 points on flawless shooting. Andrew Wilder also contributed solid minutes with 7 points on efficient 3-of-4 shooting. While the final score didn’t go their way, the Wolves demonstrated the kind of offensive firepower and determination that makes them such a formidable team. With multiple players stepping up and showing they can score in different ways, this talented group has all the tools needed for continued success as they bounce back from this hardfought contest.

duced two State FFA officers: Art Schuster in 1937 and Ken Gronewald in the early 1960s. During the 20th anniversary of the Washington State FFA program in 1956, two Goldendale members, Harvey Thompson and Wayne Clausen, took part as members of the first State FFA Band. Gladwin Bellamy, Marvin Norris, and Merwyn Eshelman were American Farmers before 1960. Merwyn Eshelman was awarded both the Star State Farmer and the Western Region Star farmer award. The chapter had at least ten State Farmers during this period. The Goldendale livestock judging team—composed of Ted Bellamy, Roscoe Imrie, and Neil Van Alest—placed first at the 1949 Pacific International Livestock show in Portland, Oregon. It was the largest judging contest in the Northwest. The Honorary Chapter Farmer degree was presented to local businessmen, parents, or supporters who significantly assisted the FFA program. By 1956 the Honorary recipients were Ray Enyeart, Martin Forry, Al Shupe, Dr. Roy Hostetler, Orison “Doc” Murdock, Harold Fariello, Paul Thompson, and Doug Ledbetter.

Over its 90-year history, the Goldendale FFA program has cultivated a significant number of skilled farmers, ranchers, and business leaders. With current instructors Josh and Randi Kreig providing leadership, the program is poised to maintain this legacy as the centennial mark approaches.

Low-income lawfully present immigrants, like refugees and asylees, saw their average monthly premiums jump from $25 last year to nearly $500, Ulrey said. The “big, beautiful bill” prohibits these noncitizens from accessing federal financial assistance for marketplace coverage.

About three-quarters of all enrollees on the exchange last year qualified for the federal tax credits, helping them decrease annual premiums by an average of $1,330. For seniors, those savings jumped to more than $1,900 annually.

Final enrollment figures are expected in the spring.

This loss led to a Wednesday loser out game against La Salle where they delivered an impressive 82-71 victory over La Salle at home, improving their outstanding record to 18-4. This dominant performance showcased the team’s offensive firepower and resilience, with multiple players stepping up to contribute to the convincing 11-point win. Grant Hatfield #20 put on an absolute clinic, erupting for a spectacular 41 points on incredibly efficient shooting. He connected on 8 of 11 threepointers (73%) and knocked down 10 of 15 field goals overall, while also converting 13 of 15 free throws. Hatfield set the tone early with backto-back three-pointers to open the game, then ignited a personal 9-point scoring streak in the first quarter that helped the Wolves build a commanding 25-14 lead. His hot shooting from beyond the arc continued throughout the game, providing crucial baskets whenever La Salle threatened to close the gap. Seth Wilder #35 provided excellent complementary scoring with 20 points on

COUNTY from page A1

efficient 9-of-12 shooting from the field. Wilder was particularly effective in the fourth quarter, scoring 11 points during the final frame to help seal the victory. The supporting cast also made key contributions, with Chris Mckune #24 adding 6 points including a momentum-shifting threepointer early in the third quarter, while Alias Butterfly #12 and Brody Hatfield #1 each chipped in 4 points. Despite La Salle’s efforts to stay competitive with several scoring runs, including an 8-point streak late in the second quarter that cut the lead to just four points, the Wolves maintained their composure and control throughout. The team’s balanced attack and clutch free-throw shooting down the stretch demonstrated their maturity and skill, making this a memorable home victory that should give them tremendous confidence moving forward.

Lastly, the Timberwolves had to play another loser out game, this time against Cle Elum, to stay in the playoffs to be able to head to districts. The Wolves delivered an

impressive 62-40 road victory, improving their outstanding record to 18-3. Despite falling behind 3-0 early, the team showed tremendous resilience and completely dominated the game once they found their rhythm, outscoring their opponents by 22 points in a commanding performance away from home.

After Cle elum jumped out to a quick 7-4 lead in the first quarter, the Wolves responded with characteristic determination. Seth Wilder sparked the comeback with a crucial threepoint play, tying the game 7-7 and then giving the Wolves their first lead at 9-7. The team never looked back from there, closing the first quarter with an 11-7 advantage. The second quarter belonged entirely to the Wolves, as they exploded for 16 points while holding Cle elum to just 6, taking a commanding 27-13 halftime lead behind Seth Wilder’s dominant 8-point quarter. Seth Wilder was absolutely unstoppable throughout the contest, finishing with a game-high 25 points on

Bill Frantz.

an incredible 12-14 shooting performance (86%) from the field, adding a perfect 1-1 from the free-throw line. Grant Hatfield provided excellent support with 14 points, contributing 4-11 field goals and a solid 5-7 effort from the charity stripe, including a clutch three-pointer in the third quarter. Caden Fahlencamp had an efficient night with 8 points, shooting an outstanding 3-4 from the field and 2-3 from beyond the arc, while Chris Mckune chipped in 4 points on 2-3 shooting.

The Wolves maintained their large lead throughout the second half, extending it to as much as 26 points while giving valuable playing time to their entire roster. The team’s balanced scoring attack, stellar shooting percentage, and unselfish play resulted in a thoroughly dominant performance that showcased the depth and talent that has made them so successful this season.

Now they are heading to Districts which will be held in Wenatchee, where they will play on February 13.

Several of the bills under consideration in Olympia would constrain the power of locally elected sheriffs and control who would be allowed to run. Sheriff Bob Songer denounced the constitutionality of those bills and warned they would eliminate the county’s posse and K-9 programs, which provide significant value and cost savings to the county. He said the posse saved the county more than $500,000 for what would otherwise be paid labor.

In response, he came up with his own proposal, explained in a recent Sentinel editorial: “All elected officials in the State of Washington,” he wrote, “which would include the governor, the state attorney general, and other elected officials, county elected officials, and city elected officials, should be required to go through a background investigation, polygraph (lie detector testing), psychological testing, and illegal drug testing. If individuals pass all these

TAX from page A1 think it’s a reality.”

cile. I could move my business. I can restructure my income to avoid it,” he told the committee. Heywood, like some others, had his testimony clipped short as lawmakers enforced a oneminute time limit. But he did claim to know of at least 50 couples in the process of shifting their residency out of Washington.

The remarks from Heywood and Fowler reflect one of the great unknowns about the proposal.

Will the 30,000 or so people expected to pay the tax leave the state, or find accounting workarounds, to avoid it?

Opponents of the tax say the answer is a no-brainer and that they will. Supporters dismiss the concern as overblown and argue that people will stay put because Washington is a great place to live. Even looking at other states for a comparison is difficult, given the layers of tax policy in play. Washington’s estate tax, its oddball business and

tests, they would be allowed to file for elective office.”

Those are all proposed requirements for a sheriff’s office position.

News was mixed from other departments. Public Works Director Jeff Hunter said that when giving grants for roadwork, government agencies would hold a final payment, called the retainage, until after a project’s completion. He cited three specific, recent projects (2024 annual striping, Courtney Road, and Bickelton Area Paver) where retainage was held for six to 10 months after the county submitted the notice of completion.

“This is making it very tough for smaller outfits,” he said. “They can’t wait that long for their payment.”

He said the department had already seen a decline in the number of smaller businesses bidding on jobs, reducing competition.

On the positive side, Van Cleave said, the jail had secured more income and reduced expenses, crediting Corrections Administrator

occupation tax, and the tax on capital gains could all affect decisions made by those subject to a tax on income.

Will voters have a say?

Senate Majority Leader Jamie Pedersen, D-Seattle, sponsor of Senate Bill 6346, said he fully expects voters will get a chance to weigh in on the income tax. The way the bill is currently written, there is only one path that will allow for this: an initiative. Sending such a measure to the ballot will require nearly 400,000 signatures in support. A “necessity clause” written into the bill prevents a referendum, which would have a lower bar.

Rob McKenna, Washington’s former Republican attorney general, popped up yesterday at the hearing, testifying remotely that if legislators want a progres -

“Inmate housing contracts for Goldendale, White, Salmon and Bingen have been drafted, approved by the [prosecuting attorney] and sent out,” he said. “When implemented, these contracts will generate an additional $99,000 in revenue.”

Additionally, he said food service at the jail averages 99 meals per day, a total of 36,135 per year, based on current census. The estimated cost for a year from Aramark, the current food provider, is $289,000. Klickitat Valley Health’s estimate was roughly $218,000.

“We just were notified that the Washington DOC Correctional Industries say they can start preparing and serving our meals in March,” he said. “The initial estimate is about $10 a day, so the cost would be $121,900, saving over $160,000.” Those interested in the long-running controversy over the future of the Dallesport Waste Water Treatment Plant may find it interesting

sive income tax, they should send the idea to voters as a proposed constitutional amendment. But approving a constitutional amendment would take Republican votes to reach the required supermajority threshold with the current makeup of the Legislature, a non-starter for Democrats.

Does Heywood dislike the tax enough to activate his political committee, Let’s Go Washington, to back an initiative? “I am absolutely looking at it,” Heywood said Friday.

Deal or no deal?

There’s a theory floating around Olympia that big businesses won’t try to blow up the income tax if lawmakers don’t whack them with any new levies. Pedersen said last week there is no such deal.

But speculation continues,

to note that under the consent agenda, the county is giving $180,000 of this year’s $250,000 landfill gas payment to Klickitat PUD for a control system upgrade at that Dallesport plant. Other items approved under the consent agenda include:

• Agreement between WA AOC and KCJD for the BECCA Program

• Agreement between WA AOC and KCJD for the CASA / VGAL Program

• Agreement between the City of White Salmon and Klickitat County for District Court Services

• DCYF Program Agreement for Juvenile Court block grant

• Agreement with Dispatch on Demand

• Agreement with Aqua Terra Cultural Resources Consultant for on-call Archaeological/Historical Investigation Services

• Supplemental Agreement #6 with Sargent Engineers, Inc., for on-call Structural Engineering Services

now fueled in part by the bill’s rollback of a tax surcharge on businesses with over $250 million in annual revenue. Ending that surcharge early would relieve businesses of around $550 million in tax liability, money counted on last year to help balance the state’s budget. The Bellevue Chamber of Commerce has come out against the bill, outlining their reasons in a four-page brief. Other statements from the business community have been mushier but tend to flag concerns about growth in state government spending and signs of a slowdown in Washington’s economy.

Microsoft President Brad Smith said this week the company is engaged in discussions about the income tax but is not endorsing or opposing the proposal.

IN THE SUPERIOR COURT OF THE STATE OF WASHINGTON

IN AND FOR THE COUNTY OF KLICKITAT

Case No.: 25-2-00127-20 SUMMONS BY PUBLICATION

CONNIE J. HOLCOMB (AKA

CONNIE JEANNE HOLCOMB AND FKA CONNIE J. WILSON), SUCCESSOR TRUSTEE (OR ANY OTHER SUCCESSOR TRUSTEE) OF THE MARY M. HOLCOMB TRUST UNDER AGREEMENT DATED AUGUST 18, 1982, AS AMENDED & CONNIE J. HOLCOMB (FKA

CONNIE J. WILSON), SUCCESSOR TRUSTEE (OR ANY OTHER SUCESSOR TRUSTEE) OF THE REXFORD D. HOLCOMB CREDIT SHELTER BY-PASS TRUST UNDER AGREEMENT DATED AUGUST 18, 1982, AS AMENDED Plaintiffs, vs. THE ESTATE OF HOMER

GOULET AND THE ESTATE OF ADELE S. GOULET, AS HUSBAND AND WIFE; THE ESTATE OF GARRET GOULET, AS THE HEIR OR DEVISEE OF THE ESTATE OF HOMER GOULET AND THE ESTATE OF ADELE S. GOULET; THE ESTATE OF PHILLIP GOULET, AND JANE DOE PHILLIP GOULET AND THEIR MARITAL COMMUNITY COMPRISED THEREOF, AS THE HEIRS OR DEVISEES OF THE ESTATE OF HOMER GOULET AND THE ESTATE OF ADELE S. GOULET; HEIDI GOULET, INDIVIDUALLY AND ON BEHALF OF ANY MARITAL COMMUNITY, AS THE HEIR OR DEVISEE OF THE ESTATE OF HOMER GOULET AND THE ESTATE OF ADELE S. GOULET; GREG GOULET AKA JEANPAUL GOULET INDIVIDUALLY AND ON BEHALF OF ANY MARITAL COMMUNITY, AS THE HEIR OR DEVISEE OF THE ESTATE OF HOMER GOULET AND THE ESTATE OF ADELE S. GOULET; DEE ANN GOULET, INDIVIDUALLY AND ON BEHALF OF ANY MARITAL COMMUNITY, AS THE SURVIVING SPOUSE OF GARRET GOULET AS THE HEIR OR DEVISEE OF THE ESTATE OF HOMER GOULET AND THE ESTATE OF ADELE S. GOULET; KIM PULEO INDIVIDUALLY AND ON BEHALF OF ANY MARITAL COMMUNITY, AS THE HEIR OR DEVISEE OF THE ESTATE OF HOMER GOULET AND THE ESTATE OF ADELE S. GOULET; THE ESTATE OF DAVID GOULET, AS THE HEIR OR DEVISEE OF THE ESTATE OF HOMER GOULET AND THE ESTATE OF ADELE S. GOULET; KATHERINE GOULET, INDIVIDUALLY AND ON BEHALF OF ANY MARITAL COMMUNITY, AS THE SURVIVING SPOUSE OF DAVID GOULET AS THE HEIR OR DEVISEE OF THE ESTATE OF HOMER GOULET AND THE ESTATE OF ADELE S. GOULET; NICOS GOULET INDIVIDUALLY AND ON BEHALF OF ANY MARITAL COMMUNITY, AS THE HEIR OR DEVISEE OF THE ESTATE OF HOMER

GOULET AND THE ESTATE OF ADELE S. GOULET. VIVIAN GOULET INDIVIDUALLY AND ON BEHALF OF ANY MARITAL COMMUNITY, AS THE HEIR OR DEVISEE OF THE ESTATE OF HOMER GOULET AND THE ESTATE OF ADELE S. GOULET.

CAMERON PHILLIP GOULET INDIVIDUALLY AND ON BEHALF OF ANY MARITAL COMMUNITY, AS THE HEIR OR DEVISEE OF THE ESTATE OF HOMER GOULET AND THE ESTATE OF ADELE S. GOULET. JUSTIN DAVID GOULET, AKA JUSTIN BONIFACE INDIVIDUALLY AND ON BEHALF OF ANY MARITAL COMMUNITY, AS THE HEIR OR DEVISEE OF THE ESTATE OF HOMER

GOULET AND THE ESTATE OF ADELE S. GOULET. BRANDON GOULET INDIVIDUALLY AND ON BEHALF OF ANY MARITAL COMMUNITY, AS THE HEIR OR DEVISEE OF THE ESTATE OF HOMER GOULET AND THE ESTATE OF ADELE S. GOULET. THE ESTATE OF SAMUEL RAYMOND KERR, AKA RAY KERR AND THE ESTATE OF CATHERINE CONSTANCE

N otices

VAN DE WIELE KERR, AKA

CATHERINE C. KERR, AS HUSBAND AND WIFE, ESTATE OF ROGER KERR AND JANE DOE ROGER KERR AND THEIR MARITAL COMMUNITY COMPROSED THEREOF, AS THE HEIRS OR DEVISEES OF THE ESTATE OF RAY KERR AND THE ESTATE OF CATHERINE C. KERR; ESTATE OF CHARLENE KERR WEATHERS AND JOHN DOE CHARLENE WEATHERS AND THEIR MARITAL COMMUNITY COMPRISED THEREOF, AS THE HEIR OR DEVISEE OF THE ESTATE OF RAY KERR AND THE ESTATE OF CATHERINE C. KERR; GARY WEATHERS, INDIVIDUALLY AND ON BEHALF OF ANY MARITAL COMMUNITY, AS THE HEIR OR DEVISEE OF THE ESTATE OF RAY KERR AND THE ESTATE OF CATHERINE C. KERR ; BRIAN T. WEATHERS INDIVIDUALLY AND ON BEHALF OF ANY MARITAL COMMUNITY, AS THE HEIR OR DEVISEE OF THE ESTATE OF RAY KERR AND THE ESTATE OF CATHERINE C. KERR; CARLA GENZ INDIVIDUALLY AND ON BEHALF OF ANY MARITAL COMMUNITY, AS THE HEIR OR DEVISEE OF THE ESTATE OF RAY KERR AND THE ESTATE OF CATHERINE C. KERR; GREGORY KENNETH WEATHERS INDIVIDUALLY AND ON BEHALF OF ANY MARITAL COMMUNITY, AS THE HEIR OR DEVISEE OF THE ESTATE OF RAY KERR AND THE ESTATE OF CATHERINE C. KERR; LISA BALLINGER INDIVIDUALLY AND ON BEHALF OF ANY MARITAL COMMUNITY, AS THE HEIR OR DEVISEE OF THE ESTATE OF RAY KERR AND THE ESTATE OF CATHERINE C. KERR KENNETH WEATHERS INDIVIDUALLY AND ON BEHALF OF ANY MARITAL COMMUNITY, AS THE HEIR OR DEVISEE OF THE ESTATE OF RAY KERR AND THE ESTATE OF CATHERINE C. KERR THE UNKNOWN HEIRS AND DEVISEESS OF THE ESTATE OF HOMER GOULET AND THE ESTATE OF ADELE S. GOULET, AS HUSBAND AND WIFE; THE ESTATE OF GARRET GOULET; THE ESTATE OF PHILLIP GOULET; AND THE ESTATE OF DAVID GOULET; THE UNKNOWN HEIRS AND DEVISEES OF THE ESTATE OF RAY KERR AND THE ESTATE OF CATHERINE C. KERR, AS HUSBAND AND WIFE; THE ESTATE OF ROGER KERR; AND THE ESTATE OF CHARLENE KERR WEATHERS; ALL OTHER PERSONS OR PARTIES UNKNOWN CLAIMING ANY RIGHT, TITLE, ESTATE, LIEN, OR INTEREST IN THE REAL ESTATE DESCRIBED IN THE AMENDED AND RESTATED COMPLAINT

Defendants

The State of Washington to the said: OTHER HEIRS AND DEVISEES OF HOMER GOULET, DECEASED; OTHER HEIRS AND DEVISEES OF ADELE S. GOULET, DECEASED; OTHER HEIRS AND DEVISEES OF GARRET GOULET, DECEASED; OTHER HEIRS AND DEVISEES OF PHILLIP GOULET, DECEASED; OTHER HEIRS AND DEVISEES OF DAVID GOULET, DECEASED; OTHER HEIRS AND DEVISEES OF RAY KERR, aka, SAMUEL RAYMOND KERR, DECEASED; OTHER HEIRS AND DEVISEES OF CATHERINE C. KERR, aka CATHERINE CONSTANCE VAN DE WIELE KERR; DECEASED; OTHER HEIRS AND DEVISEES OF ROGER KERR, DECEASED; OTHER HEIRS AND DEVISEES OF CHARLENE KERR WEATHERS, DECEASED; OTHER PERSONS OR PARTIES UNKNOWN CLAIMING ANY RIGHT TITLE, ESTATE, LIEN, OR INTEREST IN THE REAL ESTATE DESCRIBED IN THE AMENDED AND RESTATED COMPLAINT FILED OF RECORD. HEIRS AND DEVISEES OF ALL OTHER PERSONS OR PARTIES UNKNOWN CLAIMING ANY RIGHT TITLE, ESTATE, LIEN, OR INTEREST

This Just In....

• Request for Statement of Qualifications: Architectural, Engineering, and Land Surveying Services - City of Goldendale Summons by Publication: Christopher WirgesDavies Myers Sandri, PC

IN THE REAL ESTATE DESCRIBED IN THE AMENDED AND RESTATED COMPLAINT FILED OF RECORD. You are hereby summoned to appear within sixty days after the date of the first publication of this summons to wit, within sixty days after the 26 day of November, 2025, and defend the above entitled action in the above entitled court, and answer the Amended and Restated Complaint of Connie J. Holcomb (aka Connie Jeanne Holcomb and fka Connie J. Wilson), Successor Trustee (or any other Successor Trustee) of the Mary M. Holcomb Trust, under Agreement dated August 18, 1982, as amended, and Connie J. Holcomb (fka Connie J. Wilson) Successor Trustee (or any other successor Trustee) of the Rexford D. Holcomb Credit Shelter By-Pass Trust under Agreement dated August 18, 1982, as amended (“Plaintiffs”) and serve a copy of your answer upon the undersigned attorneys for Plaintiffs at their offices below stated; and in case of your failure to so do, judgment will be rendered against you according to the demand of the Amended and Restated Complaint, which has been filed with the clerk of said court. Plaintiff is seeking (1) a judgment declaring that a Sale Agreement dated December 10, 1975, recorded in Klickitat County, Washington under Auditor File Number 155081, and Volume 173 Page 32, collectively from the sellers Homer Goulet, Adele S. Goulet, Ray Kerr, and Catherine C. Kerr, to, Plaintiffs’ predecessors, the buyers Edward L. Uecker, Pearl D. Uecker, Delvin C. Woody, and Laura Woody is fully satisfied and said Sale Agreement as invalid to encumber the subject real property, (2) a decree quieting title to the subject real property free from any claim of Homer Goulet, Adele S. Goulet, Ray Kerr, Catherine C. Kerr, and their known and unknown heirs, successors, and assigns in Plaintiffs, as the successor in interest to the buyers of the Sale Agreement pursuant to a fulfillment deed from Edward L. Uecker, Pearl D. Uecker, Delvin C. Woody, and Laura Woody to Plaintiffs’ predecessor, Rexford Dale and Mary Marie Holcomb, recorded in Klickitat County Washington under Auditor File Number 214071 and in Volume 254, Page 877-878; and (3) any other relief as deemed proper by the Court.

Plaintiffs’ attorneys:

Paine Hamblen, P.S.

Attn: Tricia D. Usab# 38547

717 W. Sprague Avenue, Suite 1200

Spokane, WA 99201

DATED this 6th day of January 2026.

PAINE HAMBLEN, P.S.

/s/ Tricia D. Usab

Tricia D. Usab, WSBA # 38547

Attorneys for Plaintiff 717 W. Sprague Avenue, Suite 1200 Spokane, WA 99201

4934-7438-8839, v. 4 (0302, 0401, 0501, 0601, 0701, 0801)

IN THE SUPERIOR COURT OF THE STATE OF WASHINGTON FOR THE COUNTY OF KLICKITAT

STEVE JOHNSTON, a single person, and LYLE PROPERTIES, INC., a Washington chartered corporation Plaintiffs v. UNKNOWN HEIRS, SUC-

CESSORS AND/OR ASSIGNS OF JEANIE DAVIDSON, DECEASED, AND ALL PERSONS OR PARTIES CLAIMING ANY RIGHT, TITLE, ESTATE, LIEN OR INTEREST IN THE REAL PROPERTY AT 515 JOHNSTON AVE., LYLE WASHINGTON, 98635, COUNTY OF KLICKITAT, PARCEL NO. 03-12-3454-010500 Defendants Case No.: 25-2-00291-20 SUMMONS THE STATE OF WASHINGTON to the said HEIRS, SUCCESSORS AND/OR

ASSIGNS OF JEANIE DAVIDSON, DECEASED, AND ALL PERSONS OR PARTIES CLAIMING ANY RIGHT, TITLE, ESTATE, LIEN OR INTEREST IN THE REAL PROPERTY AT 515 JOHNSTON AVE., LYLE WASHINGTON, 98635, COUNTY OF KLICKITAT, PARCEL NO. 03-12-3454-010500

You are hereby summoned to appear within sixty days after the date of the first publication of this summons, to wit, within sixty days after the 14th day of January, 2026 and defend the above entitled action in the above entitled court, and answer the complaint of the Plaintiffs Steve Johnson, and Lyle Properties, Inc., and serve a copy of your answer upon the undersigned attorney for plaintiffs, at his office below stated; and in care of your failure to do so, judgment will be rendered against you according to the demand of the complaint, which has been filed with the clerk of said court, seeking to quiet title to the said real property at 515 Johnston Ave, Lyle W 98635, Klickitat County Parcel No. 03-12-3454-010500, and establish plaintiffs’ sole ownership of said property. Dated this 12th day of January 2026 . SHAW LAW GROUP /s/ David D. Shaw

David D. Shaw, WSB No. 25959 P.O. Box 12050 Portland, OR 97212 503.221.4260 (tel); 503.221.4267 (fax) david@shaw-law.net

Attorney for Plaintiff (0208, 0303, 0402, 0502, 0602, 0702)

IN THE SUPERIOR COURT OF THE STATE OF WASHINGTON IN AND FOR KLICKITAT COUNTY FREEDOM MORTGAGE CORPORATION, Plaintiff, vs. STEVEN D. CHARD, widower of Marilyn J. Chard; ALL UNKNOWN HEIRS AND DEVISEES OF MARILYN J. CHARD, deceased; SECRETARY OF VETERANS AFFAIRS, AN OFFICER OF THE UNITD STATES; and OCCUPANTS OF THE PREMISES, Defendants. CASE NO.: 25-2-00123-20 SUMMONS FOR PUBLICATION (60 DAYS) TO THE DEFENDANTS ALL UNKNOWN HEIRS AND DEVISEES OF MARILYN J. CHARD, DECEASED:

You are hereby summoned to appear within sixty days after the date of the first publication of this summons, to wit, within sixty days after the 21st day of January, 2026, and defend the above entitled action in the above entitled court, and answer the complaint of the plaintiff FREEDOM MORTGAGE CORPORATION and serve a copy of your answer upon the undersigned attorneys for plaintiff, ZBS Law, LLP, at their office below stated; and in case of your failure so to do, judgment will be rendered against you according to the demand of the complaint, which has been filed with the clerk of said court. This is a Complaint for Judicial Foreclosure of Deed of Trust.

DATED: January 13, 2026

ZBS LAW, LLP

By:/s/ Tom B. Pierce

Tom B. Pierce, WSBA# 26730

Attorney for Plaintiff ZBS Law, LLP 11335 NE 122nd Way, Suite 105

Kirkland, WA 98034

Ph. 206-209-0375

Fax 206-260-8870 (0307, 0403, 0503, 0603, 0703, 0802)

PUBLIC NOTICE Small Works Roster and Vendor List

Klickitat County Rural 7 Fire & Rescue For 2026

Klickitat County Rural 7 Fire & Rescue is updating its Small Works Roster and Vendor List for the year 2026. Contractors and suppliers who would like to be included, can pick up applications from Klickitat County Rural 7 Fire & Rescue at

327 W Brooks St, Goldendale, WA 98620, on our website at klickitatcountyrural7fireandrescue.org or can request an application to be emailed or faxed by calling 509-773-4246 or emailing rural7@rural7. com. Completed applications can be placed in our drop box, returned by email or faxed to 509-495-1590. (0510, 0604)

REQUEST FOR QUALIFICATIONS

PROFESSIONAL CONSULTING SERVICES for

Centerville School District

Submittal Deadline: February 18, 2026, at 3:00 pm

Centerville School District is requesting SOQ’s from interested parties capable of providing professional consulting services related to geotechnical engineering, environmental/hazardous material consulting, SEPA Consultant, Cultural Resource Consultant, Building Envelope, Survey and special inspections and testing, for an upcoming Rural Modernization Grant Project. Download the complete RFQ at https://www.centervilleschool.org. (0511, 0605)

SUPERIOR COURT OF WASHINGTON FOR CLARK COUNTY IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF

DONNIE R. HUNT, Deceased. Case No. 26-4-00111-06

PROBATE NOTICE TO CREDITORS

RCW 11.40.020, .030 Bobby L. Hunt has been appointed as personal representative (“personal representative”) of this estate. Any person having a claim against the decedent must, before the time the claim would be barred by any otherwise applicable statute of limitations, present the claim in the manner as provided in RCW 11.40.070 by serving on or mailing to the personal representative or the personal representative’s attorney at the address stated below a copy of the claim and filing the original of the claim with the court in which the probate proceedings were commenced. The claim must be presented within the later of: (1) 30 days after the personal representative served or mailed the notice to the creditor as provided under RCW 11.40.020(1)(c); or (2) four months after the date of first publication of the notice. If the claim is not presented within this time frame, the claim is forever barred, except as otherwise provided in RCW 11.40.051 and RCW 11.40.060. This bar is effective as to claims against both the decedent’s probate and nonprobate assets.

Date of First Publication: January 30, 2026

Personal Representative: Bobby L. Hunt Attorney for the Personal Representative: Jakob O. Seegmuller Address for Mailing c/o NW Legacy Law, P.S. or Service: 1003 Officers Row Vancouver, WA 98661 Court of probate proceeding: Clark County Superior Court Cause number: 26-4-00111-06 Jakob O. Seegmuller, WSBA No. 53860

Attorney for Personal Representative NW Legacy Law, P.S. 1003 Officers Row Vancouver, WA 98661 (0512, 0606, 0704)

SHERIFF’S PUBLIC NOTICE OF SALE OF REAL PROPERTY IN THE SUPERIOR COURT OF THE STATE OF WASHINGTON IN AND FOR THE COUNTY OF KLICKITAT.

SHERIFF’S PUBLIC NOTICE OF SALE OF REAL PROPERTY. LAKEVIEW LOAN SERVICING, LLC Plaintiff v. JASON GATES ERWIN, SARA ANNE ERWIN; THE WASHINGTON STATE HOUSING FINANCE COMMISSION, SECRETARY OF HOUSING AND URBAN DEVELOPMENT, OCCUPANTS OF THE PROPERTY OF 609 5th Ave, Dallesport, Washington 98617, Defendants, No. 25-2-00096-20. TO: Jason Gates Erwin, Sara Anne Erwin, The Washington State Housing Finance Commission, Secretary of Housing and Urban Development, 609 5th Ave, Dallesport, Washington 98617. The Superior

Court of Klickitat County has directed the undersigned Sheriff of Klickitat County to sell the properties legally described as follows to satisfy a judgment in the above entitled action: Property Description: Street address: 609 5th Ave, Dallesport, Washington 98617. Legal Description: LOT 5 AND THE SOUTHEASTERLY HALF OF LOT 6, BLOCK 1, DALLESPORT ACCORDING TO THE PLAT THEREOF, RECORDED JUNE 4, 1946 IN BLOCK 3, PAGE 19, AUDITORS FILE NO. 31814, KLICKITAT COUNTY PLAT RECORDS, IN THE COUNTY OF KLICKITAT AND STATE OF WASHNGTON. Assessor’s Property Tax Parcel/Account Number: 02133360010500. The sale of the above described properties is to take place: TIME: 10:00 A.M. DATE: March 4, 2026, PLACE: Klickitat County Courthouse. The Judgment Debtor can avoid the sale by paying the judgment amount of $355,448.98, together with interest, costs and fees, before the sale date. For the exact amount, contact the Sheriff’s office at the address stated below.

KLICKITAT COUNTY SHERIFF, 205 S Columbus, Room 108, Goldendale, WA 98620, 509-7734455. (0513, 0607, 0705, 0803)

REQUEST FOR STATEMENT OF QUALIFICATION (RSQ)

City of Goldendale Request for Qualification Data to Furnish Architectural, Engineering, and Land Surveying Services

The City of Goldendale is soliciting statements of qualifications and performance information from engineers and consulting/professional firms interested in providing professional services for the 2018 calendar year, pursuant to Chapter 39.80 RCW. The City anticipates requiring services for the following types of projects: 1) Street reconstruction, 2) Water pipeline replacement, 3) Environmental Compliance, 4) Architectural services, 5) Land Surveying services, 6) Wastewater plant operation and maintenance 7) Sanitary and storm sewer replacement, 8) Facilities plans for any of the above items, 9) SCADA improvements and consulting services, and 10) outside funding application preparation for various agencies, including but not limited to, Community Development Block Grant, ARRA funding, Transportation Improvement Board, Department of Transportation, Transportation Enhancement Program through the Federal Surface Transportation Program, Recreation Conservation Office, Department of Ecology, Department of Health, and Public Works Board.

The following criteria will be used to evaluate firms: Amount of specialized experience in type of work required (20), availability and capacity of the firm to accomplish the work in the required time frame (20), qualifications of personnel that will actually be working on the project (20), firm’s past experience with federally funded projects (especially CDBG and USDA/ RD projects) (20), geographical proximity of the firm to the project location (10), and professional reputation and references (10). Firms desiring consideration shall submit a complete qualifications package and any other pertinent data to further assist the selection committee in evaluating the firm’s qualification to: City of Goldendale Attn. Doug Frantum, Public Works Director, 1103 South Columbus Avenue, Goldendale, WA 98620. Qualification packages should be submitted to arrive no later than 5:00 pm on February 27, 2026. The most highly rated firm(s) will be selected for negotiation of the professional service contract for one or more types of projects. These projects may be funded or partially funded through the Washington State Community Development Block Grant Program with federal funds provided by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development. As a result, cost plus percentage of construction cost contracts may not be allowed and a number of state and federal equal op-

portunity action requirements may apply to the selection process and conduct of the project. The City of Goldendale is an equal opportunity and affirmative action employer. Minority and women owned firms are encouraged to submit

statements of qualification. (0608, 0706) IN THE SUPERIOR COURT OF THE STATE OF WASHINGTON FOR THE COUNTY OF KLICKITAT, Troy Bryan,

c lassifieds

RC CARS, 1 electric 1 fuel powered, + extras $100 each OBO 509-773-5494

FISHING REELS 3 unused, make an offer 509-773-5494

CHROME RIMS. Ford 6 lug. $100 or B/O. 509-773-5227.

SLIDE-IN STOVE. Samsung double oven, propane/gas. $250 or B/O. 509-773-5227.

2 SOAPSTONE rocks for carving $25 each 509-2612115

HARLEY DAVIDSON vest and chaps, LIKE NEW $125 for the set 509-261-2115 MOTOR HOIST – 2 ton $125 509-393-6230

QUART CANNING JARS –2 dozen @ $12/dozen 509773-5666

PROPANE TORCHES, 4, 2 with hoses, & 1 oxy-propane torch with many accouterments $75

STIHL 18” MS290 chainsaw with Oregon skiptooth chain $300 907-252-1593 Announcements & Notices

ATTENTION READERS: Readers respond to ads at their own risk. If in doubt about a particular offer, check with the Better Business Protection Agency @ 503-3784320 before investing any money. This publication assumes no liability over advertisers.

Classified Deadlines:

MONDAY 9AM Mid-Week Editions: Loans IT’S ILLEGAL for companies doing business by phone to promise you a loan and ask you to pay for it before they deliver.

Delivered

mattchiles@

509-250-3755.

PUPPIES To Forever

due to relocating: 1 Male, 1 Female, Preferably email me first at: stephaniechristensen59@gmail. com before Text (352) 5332411.

$500 OR LESS RECLINER, new in box. Yaheetech black recliner, comfortable and sturdy. $130 509-773-3245 6 DRAWER DESK used, blue pine desk, 58” long. Needs refinished. Free 541490-4787 ROCK AND ROCK EQUIPMENT: 2 saws (18” & 24”) several tons

A public service message from the Federal Trade Commission and Columbia Gorge News. Support Groups GRIEF SUPPORT Establishing a Grief Support Group. Please call Natasha 702-755-0778 RECOVERING COUPLES ANONYMOUS Meets 2nd & 4th Sundays at 10am. 216 Cascade St., Suite 26 Hood River

HAVEN: Weekly counseling groups for victims of domestic/teen dating violence or sexual assault. Biweekly educational classes given in Spanish and English for domestic violence. Call Haven, 541-296-1662.

ALCOHOLICS ANONYMOUS meetings please go to gorgeaa.org.

DO YOU HAVE HURTS, HABITS, HANG-UPS? Attend CELEBRATE RECOVERY, a faith-based 12 step program, every Thursday night at Hood River Alliance Church 2650 W. Montello (Off Rand Road) Dinner provided at 5:45pm and large group meeting at 6:30pm For more info. call 541-386-2812

PARKINSON’S Support Group: 1st Thursday of every month, 10:45am11:45am in the Deschutes Room at Waters Edge, 551 Lone Pine Blvd., 2nd Floor. For more information, please contact Chad @ 541-3400142.

AL ANON FAMILY GROUPS (Support for family and friends of alcoholics) meets Mondays at noon Pathways to Recovery Riverside Community Church 317 State St. Ruth Wells Room Tuesdays at 7pm St. Mark’s 11th & Eugene Hood River

TOPS OR #443 meets Thursday mornings, 8:30- 10 am. @ Zion Lutheran Church, use elevator entrance only. 10th and Union St., The Dalles, OR.

TOPS

Plaintiff, vs. No. 26-2-00028-20

Christopher Wirges, Defendant. The State of Washington to the said Christopher Wirges: You are hereby summoned to appear within sixty days after the date of the first publication

Support Group every 2nd Monday of the month at the Oregon Veterans Home, 10:30am - 11:30am 541-296-7190 for info.

MAC Lung Disease Support Group: for details, please call 541-483-2253 or 541805-5068.

TOPS - Taking Off Pounds Sensibly meets upstairs at Columbia Bank in White Salmon at 10am on Tuesdays. Join us at 90 NE Tohomish St., White Salmon, WA 98672. No meetings during severe weather. 541980-0251.

NARCOTICS Anonymous: Goldendale United Methodist Church, 109 E Broadway, Thursdays @ 7pm.

AL-ANON in The Dalles: The Dalles Serenity meeting every Monday at 7pm @ Gateway Presbyterian Church, 1111 Dry Hollow. For more info, call 541-2962677.

24 HOUR AA HOTLINE and meeting information: District 14. 1-833-423-3683

RIVERVIEW Al-Anon Family Group in The Dalles: Episcopal Church of St. Paul, 1805 Minnesota, Taylor Hall. Meets every Thursday, 12:30-1:30pm. This meeting is free and open to anyone in the community who is interested in attending.

NA MEETINGS Every Wednesday. 6:30 - 7:30 at the Casa Guadalupe House, 1603 Belmont, Hood River, Oregon.

Alcoholicos Anonimos Reuniones

Jueves 7:30 pm to 8:30 pm St. Paul Episcopal Church 1805 Minnesota St. The Dalles, OR 97058

NAMI|Oregon National Alliance on Mental Illness

NAMI is the largest education, support and advocacy organization on mental health in the nation. The Mission of NAMI Oregon is to improve the quality of life of persons with mental illness and of their famillies through support, education and advocacy.

Under NAMI Oregon sponsorship, NAMI-Gorge providees a monthly support group meeting for caregivers, friends, and family members of persons with mental illness.

Monthly NAMI Gorge inperson meetings are being conducted the first Thursday of every month from 6 to 7:30pm at the Gloria Center at 2505 W. 7th Street, The Dalles. For information on local NAMI Resources, please contact Barbara Telfer: at 541-980-7264 or by email: booklovinbarbarian@ gmail.com.

For other NAMI information or resources: NAMI Oregon Support Line 1-800-3436264.

AA in WAMIC (open): Tuesdays @ 7pm, NEW LOCATION! Molly B’s @ 57740 Main St., Tygh Valley, Oregon.

Survivors of S uicide Loss Support Group Meets in person at Columbia Gorge Community College, Hood River campus, across from Rosauers, on the second Tuesday of each month from 5:30-6:30pm. Support group participants have all lost someone to suicide and strive to help each other with their grief journeys and advocate for suicide prevention. Contact Brent and Shawnee at bsemmons@ hrecn.net or 541-806-2790.

STROKE

SURVIVORS

SUPPORT GROUP Mid Columbia Senior Center 1112 W 9th Street The Dalles 3rd Thursday of the month 1:30pm-3pm Questions, 541-980-8633

YOUNG Parents Support Group: ages 15-21, Tuesdays @ 7pm, call Tess @ 541-298-5104.

Volunteers Gorge Youth Mentoring (G.Y.M.)

a program of The Next Door, is seeking a positive, adult role model for a 12-year-old girl in The Dalles, who enjoys arts and crafts, animals, and going for walks. She

of this summons, to wit, within sixty days after the 11th day of February 2026, and defend the above entitled action in the above entitled court, and answer the complaint of the plaintiff Troy Bryan, and serve a copy of your answer upon the undersigned attor-

has been waiting to spend a couple days a month with a mentor who could get her out of the house and expose her to more outdoor activities. For more information on how to get involved with G.Y.M., please call Kateel at 541-399-0259.

Gorge Youth Mentoring (G.Y.M.)

a program of The Next Door, is seeking a positive, adult role model for a 7-year-old boy in The Dalles, who is outgoing, talkative, and fun. He enjoys playing basketball, riding bikes, and building things with Legos. He has been waiting to spend a couple days a month with a mentor who could expose him to more outdoor activities and help expand his reading skills. For more information on how to get involved with G.Y.M., please call Kateel at 541-399-0259.

MENTORS WANTED

Would you enjoy building a meaningful friendship with a child or teen? If so, become a mentor! Gorge Youth Mentoring, a program of The Next Door, provides children and teens with community based, one-on-one mentoring relationships with adult volunteers. Right now, 18 youth ages 6 to 21 are waiting to make a new friend. Mentors and youth plan their own activities based on their own schedules, meeting at least twice a month, for one year or more. For more information, visit www.nextdoorinc.org/gym or email gym@nextdoorinc.org

$500 or Less

$500 OR LESS Ads run 1 Week FREE!

• Private Party Only

• No Commercial Ads

• Items $500 or less

• 5 Lines Free

• Includes print & online

Excludes: Food, produce, hay, animals, firewood, fuel, automobiles and garage sales.

TIRES. Like new set of 4 265/60/18 Bridgestone Blizzak winter tires. 95% tread. Bought new for $900, asking $475. 541-340-1766.

WANT to sell something in the Budget Classifieds section? If you’re selling ONE item for $500 for less, we’ll place your five-line ad for free for one week! See the $500 or Less Box for exclusions. Call our newspaper to place your ad: Columbia Gorge News 541-386-1234

MOVING Boxes from Home Depot. 25 small (12”x10”x16”), 27 medium (15”x16”x20” and 11 large (15”x16”x26”). $1 each. 310980-0055.

JACOB Doll Antique Upright Piano. Needs to be cleaned and tuned. Free. You Haul. 541-806-0859.

Miscellaneous

MOVING Boxes from Home Depot. 25 small (12”x10”x16”), 27 medium (15”x16”x20”and 11 large (15”x16”x26”). = $1 each. 310-980-0055.

Sporting Goods

NOTICE

Certain laws and restrictions, as well as registration requirements, apply to the sale of firearms. For more information, contact the Seattle Field Division of the Department of Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms at 206204-3205. This field division is responsible for Washington, Idaho, Oregon, Alaska and Hawaii. You may also go to www.atf.gov for FAQs and information.

Dogs PUPPIES. Happy & healthy, born 11/7/25. 2 males, 1 female. Beautiful mid-sized Australian Shepard/ Collie Mix. Photos available. 541399-3113.

Auctions SILENT AUCTION

Dufur Mini Storage & Laundromat Silent Auction Stark # Unit 59 February 6 at 11am 50 NE Aikin Street, Dufur OR Garage/Yard Sales Advertise

ney for plaintiff Troy Bryan, at their office below stated; and in case of your failure so to do, judgment will be rendered against you according to the demand of the complaint, which has been filed with the clerk of said court. The object of the action is to quiet title to

541-386-1234

ColumbiaGorgeNews.com Click Classifieds Estate Sales ESTATE SALE

Cars

real property

Andrew J. Myers

Plaintiff’s Attorney. Davies Myers Sandri, PC PO Box 417, Hood River, OR Hood River County, Oregon. (0609, 0707, 0804, 0901, 1001, 1101)

This Calendar of Events listing is FREE! Email your event to events@goldendalesentinel.com or call 509-773-3777.

Are you in need of an eyecatching 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 roughly 22,000 unique hits on our website each month, this is a great way to reach even more people.

February 14, 2026 Queen Trynity Flores’s Coronation:

6 p.m. at the Bickleton School, 3626 Bickleton Hwy. Join us on Saturday, February 14th for 2026 Alder Creek Pioneer Rodeo Queen Trynity’s Coronation! We’ll have a silent auction, and dinner/ticket information will be announced soon.

It’s going to be a night to celebrate — we hope to see you there!

February 14, Mardi Gras Parade and Dance Party: 7-11 p.m. at The Bingen Theater, 210 Oak Streete Bingen. Get your heart on! Join Funkship and Samba Hood Rio for the Valentine’s Day edition of our annual Mardi Gras Parade and Costume Dance Party! Doors at 7, join the parade at 7:30 then stay for the dance party!

February 15, Galentine’s Wine & Chocolate Pairing: 1 - 5 p.m. at the Maryhill Winery, 9774 Hwy 14 Goldendale. Celebrate friendship, great wine, and exceptional chocolate at our Galentine’s Event in Goldendale. Enjoy a guided wine and chocolate pairing featuring Maryhill’s award winning wines and custom bonbons from Alexander’s Artisan Choco -

Community Events

lates. Expect hand-crafted heart shaped chocolates, wine infused creations, and a relaxed afternoon of flavor and fun. Regular food menu also available. Members $30 | Non members $40. Book your spot today! 21+ to purchase and participate.

February 18, Growing Minds Connection Collective Open House: 12 - 3 p.m. at the United Methodist Church in Goldendale. Coe check out our homeschool co-op! register at gmconnectioncollective@ gmail.com

February 19 Chamber Membership 101: An introduction to Membership & Benefits: 11:30 a.m. at the Chamber Office 903 E Broadway in Goldendale. Chamber Member 101 is an introductory, informative session designed for new members, prospective members, and businesses considering Chamber involvement. No registration needed, just show up.

February 19, Tools for Recovery: 1 - 3 p.m. at the Goldendale Public Library on Burgen Street. Learn how a community health worker can

support you and your family as we discuss the three pillars of recover. Contact Lindsay

the Storm: 7 p.m. at the Bingen Theater on Oak Street in Bingen. After the Storm

& 5:30 p.m.

From a shipwreck caused by a mighty storm, a magical aerial adventure begins. Using playful movement and imaginative theater, performers swing, climb, and soar through a sea-shaped world where silks transform into waves, masts, and hidden paths. Along the way, they meet curious creatures and unexpected helpers, discovering bravery, resilience, and the strength within themselves. This unforgettable journey is an adventure you won’t want to miss.

February 21, 2026 Glenwood Ketchum Kalf Rodeo Queen Coronation: 5 p.m. at the American Legion off of Broadway. Please join us in celebrating our 2026 Queen Taryn Miller. Enjoy a delicious dinner out on by the Goldendale American Legion, and bid on some great auction items to support Taryn! Dinner is at 6, tickets are $25 each.

Fair & Rodeo Queen program! Time onlies 9am-10:30am, pee wee’s start at 11am with the open immediately following

$50 open entry fee

$10 pee wee entry fee 10 & under

$10 office fee

Time Onlies 3/$10 or $5 eac.

Questions: call Amanda Chambers

509-366-0509

March 14 The Enchanted Garden Workshop: 3 - 6 p.m. at Field of Stars Boutique, 4 Bickleton Hwy in Goldendale. Seed Swap & Essential Oil Garden Workshop. Join us for a magical afternoon of growth and creativity! Swap seeds with fellow plant lovers, then discover how to harness the power of essential oils to nourish your garden, attract pollinators, and create your own fragrant outdoor oasis. Bring your green thumb and curiosity—leave with new plants, new knowledge, and a little extra garden magic.

Dzikowski 509-772-2693 or ldzikowski@kvhealth.net

February 21 & 22, After

4900 to check an inspector’s certification.

Notice to Contractors Washington State Law (RCW 18.27.100) requires that all advertisements for construction-related services include the contractor’s current Department of Labor and Industries registration number in the advertisement.

or check L & I’s Internet site at www. wa.gov Construction

OREGON Construction Contractors Law requires that all those who advertise remodeling, repair, or construction services be registered with the Construction Contractors Board. Registration means contractors have bonds and insurance on the job site. For your protection, be sure any contractors you hire are registered. Contact the Construction Contractors Board in Salem at 503-378-4621. To verify a contractor’s CCB license through the CCB Consumer Website, visit: hirealicensedcontractor.com Landscaping Dennis’ Lawn Maintenance Lawn mowing, hedge trimming, pruning, rototilling, hauling, bark dust, brick walls, river rock and snow removal. Call today! 541-993-0090 541-417-6903 Bonded and Insured (Hudson Insurance)

CHAPIN

Landscaping on the Cutting Edge All Season Clean Ups & Maintenance Flowerbeds and pathway design, mowing and edging, trimming/pruning trees & shrubs. Also retaining walls, decks, fences and blackberry & ivy removal. Call Lopez 360-998-7326 lopezrosalio35@gmail. com

CORTES Yard Service & Construction, LLC Yard Maintenance, Excavation, Drainage Work, Retaining Walls, Blocks, Pavers, Stonework, Fencing,

Saturday, February 21, 7 p.m. Sunday, February 22, 2 p.m.

March 14, Barrel Racing Fundraiser: 9 a.m. at the Klickitat County Fairgrounds. This is a fundraiser race for the Klickitat County

March 15, Craft Party: 2:30 - 4:30 at Sage Coffee Shop & Bakery in Klickitat. Join us for a Craft Party! Theme TBD April 3, The Lost Photos of the Columbia Gorge (1914 - 1930) 7 p.m. at The Bingen Theater, 210 N Oak Street in Bingen. A special presentation of newly restored historical photographs of the Columbia River Gorge, Celilo Falls, and surrounding regions. Photographer I. R. Robison captured these images on glass plate negatives between 1914 and the 1930s. Many depict places that no longer exist—a rare visual record of the Pacific Northwest during dramatic change. $10 advance / $15 door. In partnership with Gorge Heritage Museum. RESERVED SEATING! https://www.bigbritches.org/the-lost-photos-ofthe-columbia-gorge

same reliable, nationwide coverage as the largest carriers. No long-term contract, no hidden fees and activation is free. All plans feature unlimited talk and text, starting at just $20/month. For more information, call 1-833462-1801

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Check It Out

Beth Wood, Collection Librarian Fort Vancouver Regional Library District

Contact Beth Wood with questions about this column: 360-906-4996 or bwood@fvrl.org

Dinner and a Movie

It’s the awards season for movies; the Golden Globes have been distributed, and the Academy Award nominations are released. This year, as in the past, I mentioned to my husband that we hadn’t seen any of the nominated films. He reminded me

So, I have a curated list for your at-home pleasure: cookbooks and DVDs. Voilà! Dinner and a movie night, just in time for Valentine’s Day. Pick your category and head over to the library.

Leftovers: “The Everlasting Meal Cookbook” by Tamar Adler (2023). This A-Z resource has plenty of ideas for using leftovers in creative ways. Pair it with Do-Overs: “Groundhog Day” (1993) with Bill Murray, or “Meet Cute” (2022) with Kaley Cuoco. Both films feature time loops, similar to seeing those same foods in your fridge. Italian food: “Breaking the Rules: A Fresh Take on Italian Classics” by Joe Sasto (2025). Chef Sasto presents traditional dishes, but shows ways to change up traditional Italian fare. Pair it with last years’ Oscar contender, “Conclave” or “The Talented Mr. Ripley” (1999) for some drama and Italian scenery to go with your pasta. Comfort food: “Modern Comfort Food” by Ina Garten (2020). These are traditional favorites livened up by the Barefoot Contessa. Pair them with “Pleasantville” (2011) or “Back to the Future” (2009) for a trip to the 1950s - the heyday of American comfort food.  Mmm, chocolate: “Chocolat: Parisian Desserts and Other Delights” by Aleksandra Crapanzano (2025). User-friendly recipes accompany a visual feast of illustrations. Lick the batter off your fingers while watching “Chocolat” (2001) or “Like Water for Chocolate” (2021). Soup: “Taste of Home Soups & Breads” (2025) has over 200 recipes shared by home cooks on America’s #1 food/lifestyle brand. Pair it with some soup comedy: “Bridget Jones’s Diary”

(2001) or “Young Frankenstein” (2006 ed.). It’s still great soup weather!

Southern cooking: “Recipes From the American South” by Michael W. Twitty (2025) includes essays on the cultural origins of many Southern specialties. Pair it with “Fried Green Tomatoes” (1991) or “My Cousin Vinny” (1992), both of which reference iconic Southern foods.

Pie, of course: “Pie Camp” by Kate McDermott (2020), a Washingtonian who will teach you mad pie skills. Pair your new talents with “Waitress” (2007) or “Waitress: The Musical” (2023), about a waitress and expert pie-maker.

Celebrity chefs: “Martha: The Cookbook” by Martha Stewart (2024) celebrates her 100th book with 100 treasured recipes. Pair it with a film that features cooking themes - “Julie & Julia” (2009), or “Last Holiday” (2017).

Beth Wood is a senior collection development librarian for Fort Vancouver Regional Libraries. Email her at readingforfun@fvrl.org.

New at the Library

FICTION

“Stolen in Death” by J. D. Robb

Save time, tackle dinner with quick, convenient recipes

(Family Features) If hectic weeknights leave you feeling like time is constantly slipping away, saving a few extra minutes in the kitchen can begin with alternative cooking methods and easy recipes without all the fuss. Rather than waiting for the oven to preheat, you can tackle family dinners by stir-frying and air-frying your way to delicious meals. For a fast and flavorful dinner, this Simple Chicken Stir-Fry is packed with tender chicken, crisp veggies and savory soy sauce to hit the spot without calling for takeout. It delivers on both taste and ease with the addition of Minute Sticky Rice Cups. Ready in 1 minute, they provide a perfect sticky texture to complement bold flavors. In just 15 minutes, you’ll plate a delicious recipe that’s sure to become a weeknight staple.

Endless customization is another benefit of stir-frying, allowing you to swap out chicken for shrimp or tofu while mixing and matching your loved ones’ favorite veggies. Drizzle it with sauces like teriyaki or sriracha for an added flavor boost, serve with spring rolls or wontons for extra crunch or pair with a fresh cucumber salad or steamed edamame for light, refreshing contrast. Delivering the same set-it-andforget-it convenience of baking but typically with a shorter preheating wait, air-frying is another solution for creating tasty family meals while taking back precious time. Loaded with rice, vegetables and melted cheese, these Air Fryer Veggie Rice Bites make for an easy, cheesy snack or light meatless meal. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep, they’re ready in less than 10 minutes with Minute

Butter & Sea Salt Jasmine Rice Cups

serving as a rich and savory base that complements the mixed veggies and ooey-gooey cheddar. Don’t forget, you can take them to the next level with flavorful dipping sauces like: Ranch dressing: A classic choice that adds a creamy, herby flavor. Barbecue sauce: Adds a sweet and smoky touch.

Sriracha mayo: This spicy, tangy dip is a great match for those who like a bit of heat.

Honey mustard: A sweet and tangy combination that’s complementary to the mix of flavors. Garlic aioli: Rich and garlicky to enhance overall taste.

To find more fast, family-friendly meal ideas, visit MinuteRice.com.

Simple Chicken Stir-Fry

Prep time: 5 minutes

Cook time: 10 minutes

Servings: 2-4

• 2 Minute Sticky Rice Cups

2 tablespoons sesame oil

1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into thin strips

• 1 cup mixed vegetables

• 3 tablespoons soy sauce

• 2 green onions, chopped

• 1 tablespoon sesame seeds

(optional)

Heat rice according to package directions.

In large skillet or wok over medium-high heat, heat sesame oil. Add chicken and saute 6 minutes until chicken is evenly browned and cooked through. Add mixed vegetables to skillet and stir-fry 4 minutes, or until tender but still crisp.

Add cooked sticky rice to skillet.

Pour in soy sauce and mix thoroughly, ensuring rice is evenly coated and

heated through.

Remove from heat, stir in chopped green onions; garnish with sesame seeds, if desired; and serve hot.

Tips: Chicken can be substituted for shrimp or tofu. Frozen vegetables can be used in place of fresh; cook 5 minutes, or until cooked through.

Air Fryer Veggie Rice Bites

Prep time: 5 minutes

Cook time: 9 minutes

Servings: 1-2

• 1 Minute Butter & Sea Salt

Jasmine Rice Cup

• 1/4 cup frozen mixed vegetables, thawed

1 egg

• 1/4 cup cheddar cheese, shredded

• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

1/8 teaspoon salt

• barbecue sauce or ranch dressing

(optional)

Preheat air fryer to 390 F. Heat rice according to package directions. In blender, roughly chop vegetables.

In bowl, combine vegetables, egg, cheddar cheese, garlic powder and salt. Freeze 5 minutes to slightly firm up.

Divide rice mixture into four portions and hand form into mounds.

Air-fry 8 minutes, or until golden brown. Serve with barbecue sauce or ranch dressing for dipping, if desired.

“Isles of the Emberdark” by Brandon Sanderson “The Devil’s Daughter” by Danielle Steel

NONFICTION

“The Love Language That Matters Most” by Gary D. Chapman

“Beyond Infidelity: How to Turn the End of Your Relationship Into the Beginning of Your Life” by Lauren LaRusso

“The Pain Brokers: How Con Men, Call Centers and Rogue Doctors Fuel America’s Lawsuit Factory” by Elizabeth Chamblee Burch

CHILDREN

“Haircut Day With Dad” by Monica Mikai

“How to Hatch: A Gosling’s Guide to Breaking Free” by Sara Holly Ackerman “Alice With a Why” by Anna James This is just a small sampling of the many new titles added each week to the Fort Vancouver Regional Library District collection. Visit the district’s 15 locations, our website at www.fvrl.org, or call (360) 906-5000 to reserve titles or find additional listings.

I woke up late at night and saw the falling snow.

In the middle of the night, the weather had changed. Snow began to fall. Large flakes hovered and floated in front of the streetlights as they fell, and soon the ground was coated.

Normally, I would be in Mexico by now. But with my book coming out, we stayed a bit longer. And now I’m glad we did, because two nights ago, my Uncle Andy died. He was 94.

Yesterday, I went with my mother and father, my aunt, my sister and four cousins to meet with the funeral director. He was surprised. He had to scout up more chairs. That’s when we told him my Uncle Les would also be joining us by phone. This winter was a tough season for Andy.

First, he had to move from the family farmhouse, where he spent the last 77 years of his life, to an assisted living apartment. Andy did not want to move. He wanted to stay at the farm. He wanted to die at the farm. He consented to leaving only after his wife, Bea, who will soon turn 94 herself, was diagnosed with terminal cancer. Andy always thought he would die before Bea. But now it was looking as if Bea would go before him—something he never imagined— and they both had to leave the old farmhouse to move into this new, small space. Bea was released from the hospital, and my cousins decorated the new apartment with furniture and pictures from the farmhouse to make them feel at home. Andy complained more or less nonstop about the changes. And he joked. Andy always told jokes, even when he was grumpy. But neither Andy nor Bea spent much time in that little apartment. Bea quickly grew worse. She had some

small strokes, and she became confused. She started wandering the hallways, and the folks at the home said she’d need to move downstairs to memory care. This meant Andy would also move into a new apartment just a few doors down from Bea.

“I have to move again?” he asked, astonished. He had still not fully settled into the new apartment.

My mother explained that, if he did so, he could be close to Bea.

“But I like this place!” Andy said. This was news to everyone. Plans were made to move him the next day, but that night, he took a bad fall. He was taken to the hospital. He had broken two vertebrae in his neck. They didn’t recommend surgery at 94. In the middle of the night, he died in his sleep.

“I don’t think he wanted to go through all that,” my mom said. “Not without Bea.”

“He ended up dying first, like he thought he would,” I said.

So yesterday, we had a mini family reunion in the funeral director’s office. Then my mother and her sister and a cousin went to tell Bea that her husband had died. My mother said she thought Bea understood—at least for a moment.

“How old was he?” Bea asked. Then she asked about the weather. Then she asked again.

I was thinking about all of this, watching the snow fall in the middle of the night. Sometimes, when I’m in Mexico, I miss the changing of the seasons. This year, I am here as witness. There’s nothing I can do, nothing I can change. But somehow being here to observe the change is good. It makes the changes real. And it reminds me of how very short the days are. To see photos,check out CarrieClassonAuthor on Facebook or visit CarrieClasson.com.

Imagine, you have ridden the chairlift up and now you are standing on top of a snowy mountain, looking down as people speed down the hill before you. Adrenaline is pumping, your heart is thumping, the cold air is on your face and you have butterflies in your stomach. You’re at the top, ready to zoom downhill following those in front of you. The thrill of sliding, swooshing, and having a blast on snow is what skiing and snowboarding is all about. Both sports take balance and courage and the two are the most popular winter sports.

Skiing & Snowboarding

Downhill skiing and cross-country skiing may both use skis, but they feel like totally different adventures. Downhill skiing is all about speed and excitement— you ride a ski lift up a mountain and then zoom down steep slopes, making sharp turns as gravity pulls you along. It feels a bit like a roller coaster on snow. Cross-country skiing, on the other hand, is more like hiking or running on skis. Skiers glide across flatter land, gentle hills, and forest trails using their own strength to move forward. There are no ski lifts, just lots of steady motion and endurance. Downhill skiing is fast and thrilling, while cross-country skiing is calm, challenging, and great for exploring nature—one is a rush, the other is a journey.

Snow skiing is older than snowboarding. Skiers use two long skis with metal edges and lightweight metaal poles. Archaeologists have found evidence of skiing from thousands of years ago. Long ago, prehistoric people in places like Scandinavia and China used skis to travel across deep snow to hunt and explore. At one time skiing was the only way to travel during the winter. Over time, inventions made travel easier. Skiing became part of the very first Winter Olympic Games in 1924. While skiing is thrilling, it can also be dangerous. Skiers can fall at high speeds, hit icy patches, or collide with other skiers. Today, most downhill skiers wear helmets to protect themselves from head injury.

Snowboarding is the younger cousin of skiing and started in the 1960s, when people mixed ideas from surfing and skateboarding and brought those ideas to the snow. In fact the first commercially sold snowboards were called Snurfers, a mix of the words snow and surfer. At first, many ski resorts did not allow snowboarding because the athletes were seen as reckless and they caused a lot of accidents. Snowboarding first appeared in the Olympics in 1998, in Nagano, Japan, after twenty years of trying for acceptance. One of the most well known snowboarders in the world is Shaun White, who became famous for his big air in the half-pipe, and three Olympic gold medals. Shaun has red hair and earned the nickname “The Flying Tomato.” At the X games in 2021 Shaun caught 21 feet of air.

choose?