Goldendale Sentinel January 21, 2024

Headlines & History since 1879

County to hire more dispatchers

RodgeR Nichols

FoR The seNTiNel

Klickitat County will hire two fully trained emergency management dispatchers on a temporary basis to ease the burden on a crew that is critically shortstaffed. Another department merger is in the works, and the county gets pushback on an earlier merger plan. That’s all part of the January 13 Klickitat County Commission morning workshop and afternoon official section.

Oversight concerns shadow City incubator project

loRRie Fox

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An investigation by The Sentinel into the City of Goldendale’s 2023 Incubator Building Project found reporting and compliance inconsistencies related to state labor-law requirements. The $1,036,800 project was funded through a Washington State Department of Commerce grant, placing the City in a dual role as both the grantee of state funds and the awarding agency responsible for contract oversight. Documentation and verification responsibilities

Under Washington public works procedures, which include municipalities, the awarding agency is responsible for ensuring subcontractors have approved Statements of Intent to Pay Prevailing Wages and Affidavits of Wages Paid on file before final payments and project closeout.

According to information shared with The Sentinel this month by a Department of Labor & Industries (L&I) representative, records associated with the project showed several unresolved items, including but not limited to:

• One subcontractor without certified payroll records on file

• A second subcontractor without an approved Intent or Affidavit and no certified payroll records

• A third subcontractor with duplicate filings that had not been resolved

The L&I representative said they rely largely on the awarding agency and prime contractor to ensure subcontractor compliance, noting L&I has limited ability to independently monitor filings. Information obtained in a public records request shows the physical project was accepted as complete on August 1, 2023, and L&I released its hold on retainage in October 2023. Retainage is a portion of grant funds directed to be withheld by L&I until all documentation required for compliance is indicated as complete. It is uncertain why retainage was released when some documentation was not completed in compliance.

Owner-operator filings

A central issue reviewed by The Sentinel involves Finn Ridge Tile and Flooring, Inc., which appears in L&I’s records associated with the project but is not listed on

the City’s Notice of Completion. When asked about the absence of filings, City Administrator Sandy Wells said, “There is no statement of intent because it’s owner operated, so prevailing wage isn’t a factor,” meaning addressing prevailing wage by the subcontractor, in this case, was presumed not to be requisite and, therefore, did not require documentation filing.

But guidance published by L&I and the Municipal Research and Services Center (MRSC) states that, while qualifying owner-operators may be exempt from paying prevailing wages to themselves, they are still required to file Statements of Intent and Affidavits, (and certified payroll) to document their participation on a public-works project. MRSC guidance explains that even when an owner performs all work personally, the forms must still be filed and may be marked “owner-operator.”

City records

Wells said subcontractors were scheduled and coordinated work through the general contractor, Kaban Homes, Inc., and that their work was not coordinated directly with the City. Asked whether

Rebuilding restrictions eased for fire disaster

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FoR The seNTiNel

There was good news for victims of the Rowena and Burdoin fires in the National Scenic Area.

On January 13, the Columbia River Gorge Commission unanimously passed an amendment to the Management Plan specifically designed to ease restrictions on rebuilding following a disaster.

There have been larger fires in the Gorge since the National Scenic Area Act of 1986 but none approaching the destruction of homes and property like the twin fires of the summer of 2025.

This was the Gorge Commission’s first significant update to the replacement provisions, and by the time it came to a vote, it had been 212 days since the start of the Rowena Fire and 192 days from the start of the Burdoin fire.

The Commission staff initially planned for the Gorge Commission to vote on the plan amendment in November, but tribal consultation, which the National Scenic Area Act requires, took longer than expected. Still, the Commission held hearings in November and December to move the Plan Amendment along.

The Gorge Commission staff acted quickly after adopting the Plan Amendment. The next day, the Commission staff drafted a final order; the Chair signed it and sent it to the Secretary of Agriculture for concurrence. Also, for the first time, the Gorge Commission authorized the counties to directly apply the Plan Amendment while they are enacting their own matching ordinances, which normally takes a year or longer. and the changes will take effect. What changes did the Gorge

Commission make? If a homeowner wants to rebuild in the same footprint as the lost residence, they can get an expedited review and not have to do a cultural resources survey. Those who are rebuilding in the General Management Area will also be allowed to use the expedited review process if they make minor changes that expand or adjust the footprint, size, and height. Those adjustments are more specific, but in most cases give landowners more flexibility. Some GMA landowners may also need to have a cultural resources review. Those in the Special Management Areas can use the same adjustments, but all applications will still have some cultural resources review. During the hearings, the Forest Service promised they will be moved to the top of the list for the

Despite a hiring freeze, the county will be contracting for two fully qualified emergency services dispatchers to alleviate the burden on a highly overworked staff.

County Administrator Robb Van Cleave noted the county is required to have two dispatchers on duty 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, and to do it properly requires 10 people. Currently there are only five.

“To put that kind of load on five people, we’re going to burn out folks,” he said. “We’ve already had to adjust vacation schedules, and we’re to the point where if we lose one more, it would be extremely critical. It’s a stressful environment.”

The $137,000 contract buys the county 1,773 hours of coverage for two fully trained dispatchers. Any hours not used up in the first four months will carry over to the next period if necessary. The county also had an un -

budgeted $7,800 to renew a fleet management software contract that was expiring imminently. The software had justified its cost when a person claimed they were in an accident involving a county vehicle, and the software proved that no county vehicles were present anywhere near the scene of the alleged accident. Van Cleave also floated the idea of moving civil service responsibilities from the clerk’s office to Human Resources. That would allow a proposed halftime HR position to be funded for a full-time position. But an earlier decision to move Emergency Management into the Public Works Department drew criticism from the undersheriff and volunteer fire chiefs.county. Sarah Hancock, Chief of High Prairie Fire District No. 14, presented an open letter signed by 12 of the 17 fire chiefs in the county, which read in part:

“This change was announced after the decision had already been made, without convening the Emergency Management Executive Board, and without meaningful dialogue with emergency response partners... Emergency management is not a clerical function that can be reassigned without consequence... Reassigning this mission to a department whose primary work is not public safety creates immediate risk…The one and a half week transition is not a responsible timeline.”

The state Republican Party says Gov. Bob Ferguson does not understand the nature of the affordability crisis in Washington. The governor proposes more taxes and government regulation while the GOP believes the opposite would help more.

earning over one million. He

cluding

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This time last year, the following was our top news story: A Washington state law aimed at protecting immigrant rights faces potential challenges with the new presidential administration, according to a story reported on KUOW by Gustavo Sagrero Alvarez. The state’s sanctuary law, the Keep Washington Working Act, limits the ways local law enforcement can collaborate with federal immigration authorities. However, some counties in the state appear inclined to support federal deportation efforts.

Klickitat County Sheriff Bob Songer voiced his willingness to cooperate with federal immigration authorities in a video posted to his department’s social media page on Dec. 11. “I don’t care if this is a blue state, a sanctuary state… they have an obligation,” Songer said, referring to government agencies he believes should align with federal deportation plans under President Donald Trump.

The Keep Washington Working Act, enacted in 2019, prohibits local law enforcement from inquiring about immigration status or detaining individuals for federal immigration agents. Nonetheless, it allows for cooperation in specific cases, such as dismantling human trafficking or drug rings, or addressing individuals in state prisons. Trump’s administration has signaled plans for mass deportations, prioritizing individuals who have committed crimes. Sheriff Songer, however, expressed openness to targeting people who entered the country illegally or overstayed their visas—offenses that can escalate to federal crimes if repeated. A Department of Homeland Security report estimates approximately 340,000 Washington residents lack legal immigration status.

“This sheriff is not going to refuse to help ICE—we will be there with ICE to do the job,” Songer declared in his video.

A gentleman was in our office last week vehemently decrying The Sentinel’s political tone. “You’re always saying terrible things about Republicans,” he said. That’s a curious statement, since The Sentinel has never said anything terrible about Republicans. I didn’t get the chance to talk with him, but I have to presume he was talking about some of the letters we run. Since we get a lot of letters from the west end of the county–the liberal reservation, as some call it–then, yes, we’ve certainly run letters that take sharp issue with right-wing politics and President Trump specifically.

But that’s the letter writers’ comments. Not The Sentinel’s.

Lou Marzeles, Editor

So why do we run them? So long as letters meet our guidelines (published every week on this page), we run letters from readers irrespective of their viewpoint and whether or not they match those of anyone on our staff. We don’t always agree with letters we run. But we run them because that’s what newspapers do in their letters section. Why else would you have a letters section?

If people are irritated that we run opinions highly critical of their political persuasion, then they should write opinions supporting their viewpoints. We would run them, and on the few occasions when we get letters reflecting the political right, we have run them. We just don’t get many. Around here, the right doesn’t write.

That’s fine. But don’t complain that The Sentinel doesn’t run letters reflecting both political flavors if it only gets letters from one. And don’t conflate The Sentinel’s presumptive political views with those of letter writers. They speak solely for themselves.

We’re aware there are some on the far right who are convinced The Sentinel is a left-wing rag. That is really strange, speaking personally as someone who has voted Republican far more often than not. But I vote by the candidate, not by the party. And I know left-wingers who feel The Sentinel leans too far to the right. It’s all relative perception, and I’m not trying to convince anyone of this newspaper’s perspective. I’m just explaining why so many letters supporting liberal opinions run in these pages—it’s not that we favor any particular viewpoint.

Don’t believe us? Test it out: send in letters supporting President Trump and conversative politics. As long as they aren’t rants, we will run them.

And, interestingly, immediately after writing this editorial, I discovered the letter seen to the right—a letter in support of the Republican Party and placed it to run this week. It’s the first such letter we’ve received in ages. Maybe it’s a sign.

THE GOLDENDALE SENTINEL

Official newspaper of Klickitat County, Washington

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

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Editorial:

Lou Marzeles, Editor & Publisher

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

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

Burn-out has got to go

The Festival of Wheels gave it another try this year. It seems the attendance has dwindled to much lower levels than when the event was new, 10 years ago. There are a lot of competing car shows this time of year, so it doesn’t surprise me . This year Goldendale Motorsports Association and ABATE brought back the burn-out, which was tried several times in the past with questionable benefits to the town. This year someone had the brilliant idea to use the old skateboard park as a place to stage the return of the burnout. It was held on the concrete slab, a tempting medium for anyone inclined to bum rubber. Rednecks of many degrees, punk kids or maybe the little old lady from Pasadena. I personally was left with a bad taste in my mouth and lungs. Even though I made it a point to stay away from the burn-out and was at my home where I thought I would escape the noise and smoke, when the toxic cloud rose from the park and drifted over the Little Klickitat River Park (the swimming pool) on to the kids and families at the pool and on to me while I was sitting on my property. We were contaminated by the toxins in the smoke, and my eyes and throat were imitated, and my lungs filled with carbon monoxide and other cancer causing toxic compounds

for three hours.

I think the city of Goldendale needs to rethink supporting burnouts in our park. Next year don’t issue a permit to any group that wants to burn-out. There are places in the county where it could be held, just not in the city please. I hate toxic smoke, and you should too.

Choose the right party

Let’s take a reality check on what is happening in Washington State. We have seen the highest tax increase in history. With most of the state being rural, that means a lot of people have 10 to 50 miles, or even farther in some cases, to get to their jobs. The recent tax increase amounts to over 59 cents for a gallon of gas. Then, there are all the other tax increases that have been imposed on Washingtonians since 2019. Thanks to the legislative pile of increased taxes and unnecessary regulations, we have become one of the costliest states in America for families and employers alike.

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.

Washington State back on track as the gem of the West in the 2026 and 2028 elections, you have a chance— and the party that is for individual freedom and reducing taxes has the most prosperous agenda for the state. That party just happens to be the Republican Party. Still, you have to vet the candidates and get the best. With the right people, we can revive Washington.

Ken McKune Goldendale

C

There is only one way to fix this, and that is to change Olympia. The ruling majority has not worked to improve the quality of life for the hard-working taxpayer or preserve the incentive for start-up businesses that have, in the past, made Washington an economic powerhouse. But the Democrat majority has an addiction to tax increases, which it uses heavily to grow government and expand government overreach. This is why, if you want to put

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.

Letters from the community

sess them?

We have to make sure the ones who are approving materials for libraries are morally responsible to see that the library remains dedicated to having a designated place where children can go and explore, learn, and grow with a wide ageappropriate range of materials, such as picture books, early readers, chapter books, educational toys, multimedia resources, and access to digital content.

Erin Hartford Lyle, Washington

Protect the vulnerable

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.”

My concern is that a comment as broad as this opens the door for abuse. I have had no difficulties with our local branch and am sorry that the headquarters has decided to take such a hard line. It ap-pears I will need to look for a bank that does not behave in this manner.

Ken Margraf Goldendale

Watching out for the most vulnerable depends on providing protection and resources to ensure their safety and well-being.

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

It is dangerous to try to put health information in the same context as explicit sexual content. The books in question are taking young children to places they shouldn’t be. It’s confusing, bewildering, and traumatizing. Why would anyone on the library board be against placing sexually explicit books in a place where children cannot possibly pos-

Guidelines for Letters

You just have to wonder why people criticize those who want more oversight on the placement of material. I for one am just thankful we have some who are watching, making sure that the children’s space is being monitored. Let’s let children be children, allowing them the freedom to imagine and enjoy their childhood without the pressures of presenting material that takes away their innocence. It is important to nurture the precious time of childhood.

Delmer Eldred Goldendale

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

Requests to keep letters exactly as written when published cannot be honored. All letters are subject to editing for grammar, spelling, clarity, and/or brevity.

There is a suggested length limit of about 300 words.

Unsigned letters (including anonymity requests), letters with fictitious signatures, letters with multiple signatures, or letters to public officials are not accepted.

Please keep the tone of letters free of rants, wild speculation, unsubstantiated claims, or pointedly personal comments. Letters that go overboard in these directions will be refused publication.

Writers must include name, city/town of residence, and phone number for verification purposes. (Street address is not required, only city or town.)

Happy Anniversary

I want to give a big shout out to a pair of Glenwood high school sweethearts. Bubs and Marlene Murray recently celebrated their 66th anniversary. They were surrounded by family as they celebrated another special day. Congratulations, Bubs and Marlene.

Although our Klickwood boys lost their basketball game against Horizon Christian last Friday, they should hold their heads high. Horizon Christian’s boys’ team is one of the topranked teams in the league and state-wide. Most teams have been losing to them by large margins, but our Klickwood team stayed strong and came so close. The final score was 69 to 65 in Horizon Christian’s favor, but we are so proud of Klickwood for playing hard and demonstrating that they are definitely a force to be reckoned with in the 1-A Big Sky League.

On Saturday, Klickwood traveled to Thorp, where they came out victorious by a score of 63 to 43. Way to go, Klickwood. They played a home game in Klickitat against Condon on Tuesday. They’ll play in Lyle on Friday the 23rd and back in Klickitat on Saturday

H ometown Ferguson calls state “bold, with heart and spirit”

the 24th. That Saturday game starts at 3:30 in the afternoon. If you can, show up and support our strong Klickwood team. Show them how proud we all are of them.

Klickwood doesn’t have a girls team this basketball season, so it’s fun to watch the Trout Lake Mustangs with Glenwood kid Emma Patterson staying strong all season. Dufur is the top-ranked team in the 1-A Big Sky and, I think, is undefeated. The Trout Lake girls held Dufur to just 10 points in the first half of their game Friday night and 33 points for the entire game. Dufur is also a team that has usually won its games this season with large margins. In the end, they did win, but it was an edge-ofyour-seat game all the way through, with the final score 33-26. Close and exciting and we’re proud of our Emma for her outstanding playing for the Mustangs this season. Just for fun, one of our awesome Glenwood High School students will take a turn writing the Glenwood news for next week. If you have news to share, please get it to English teacher Heidi Wilson by Friday.

Cassie DiamonD Washington state Journal

In his State of the State address, Gov. Bob Ferguson called for an investment in transportation infrastructure and housing, a fairer tax system, and the ability of Washington to rise to meet the obstacles it faces.

On Tuesday, January 13, Ferguson emphasized the role history plays in Washington’s current situation.

“It seems to me that history works in different ways, and historic events for a state come in two forms: historical events that happen to us and the history that we create,” Ferguson said.

In particular, the governor pointed to the recent historic flooding in December 2025 as a major challenge faced by Washingtonians. However, he also called attention to how the government responded by providing disaster relief and infrastructure repairs.

“Government gets its share of criticism, but it’s only fair to stop and notice when government delivers,” Ferguson said. “We

hauer Washington state Journal

were not passive observers of a historic event, quite the opposite.”

Ferguson highlighted the ways in which “the state of our state remains strong,” pointing to Washington’s economy, space-industry manufacturing, and cleanenergy investments, among other areas.

Still, he acknowledged there are areas where Washington must improve and said his proposed budget is focused on making those necessary improvements.

Ferguson explained how he proposed a “historic” investment of more than $1 billion into the maintenance and preservation of Washington’s bridges, an investment of $164 million to pave hundreds of miles of Washington roads this summer, and an investment of $1 billion to build three additional ferries.

Ferguson also stressed his proposed investment of $244 million into housing, which he said would help build and protect thousands of affordable housing units, make it easier for first-time buyers to enter the market and accelerate house building.

Washington also faces many external challenges, according to the governor. He specifically noted the use of masks and unmarked cars by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents to detain residents across the country and state as one of these challenges.

“It’s horrific. It’s unjust, and it needs to stop now,” Ferguson said.

Ferguson expressed his support for SB 5855, a bill that would prohibit law enforcement from wearing masks while interacting with the public. The bill would allow for certain exceptions, such as the use of masks or other devices to protect against exposure to hazardous environmental conditions.

The governor once again reaffirmed his support for a “truly historical” millionaire’s tax as a way to address Washington’s regressive tax system. According to Ferguson, such a tax would only tax residents who earn more than $1 million in income in a year, and would not include assets.

Ferguson said the state

must take the revenue earned from this tax and put it “back into the pockets of Washingtonians.” He listed expanding the eligibility of the Working Families Tax Credit program, lowering taxes on small-business owners, and investing more money into K-12 schools as examples of how this revenue should be used.

The governor highlighted specific proposals he thinks should be passed by the Legislature this session. This included a bill that would expand eligibility for free early learning programs to military families, a bill that would make it easier for pre-made modular housing to meet building standards, and a bill that would ensure local fire departments have access to aviation resources to fight wildfires, among others.

“Let’s give inspiration to future generations that we took up the challenge and provided a foundation for success,” Ferguson said.

“Washingtonians are not mere bystanders to history. We are bold, and with heart and spirit we forge our destiny and make history.”

Child fatalities and nearfatalities increased by about 75% between 2020 and 2024— from 28 cases to 49 cases— and what to do about it took top priority at the Capitol last Wednesday.

Keeping Kids Safe, an organization of foster parents that started amid concerns with HB 1227’s impact, organized a rally at the Capitol Wednesday that blamed the Keeping Families Together Act (HB 1227), which came into effect in 2023, for the rise in critical cases. HB 1227’s sponsor, Rep. Lillian Ortiz-Self, D-Mukilteo, introduced a new bill on the same day. She says the new bill would address the rise in fentanyl use, which she blamed for the rise in childhood fatality and injuries.

Tristan Fujita, foster parent and co-founder and vice president of Keeping Kids Safe, said, “We started seeing situations where children were found in incredibly abusive situations.

“There had been several calls to CPS,” she said, referring to Child Protection Services. “We couldn’t do anything because it didn’t meet the threshold.”

HB 1227 intended to safely reduce the number of children in foster care and pre-

vent government overreach into homes by setting the threshold that there had to be “imminent physical harm” for a child to be removed from their home.

The bill cites that removal of children from their families, even temporarily, is traumatizing for a lifetime. It also cites that Black and Indigenous children are disproportionately removed from their families.

The law states that “the existence of community or family poverty, isolation, single parenthood, age of the parent, crowded or inadequate housing, substance abuse, prenatal drug or alcohol exposure, mental illness, disability or special needs of the parent or child, or nonconforming social behavior does not by itself constitute imminent physical harm.”

Shauna Lowery, who attended the rally, is a social worker with the Department of Children, Youth, and Families (DCYF) in Spokane and vice chair of the Washington Federation of State Employees. Families have been referred to DCYF “time and time and time again,” she said. But CPS has been unable to do anything except provide services that are voluntary so parents and guardians can refuse them.

“There’s nothing else we can do,” Lowery said.

Ortiz-Self and DCYF attribute the critical case rise to fentanyl—over 50% of critical cases in 2025 were opioid-related. In 2024, HB 6109 was passed to amend that courts can “give great weight” to the lethality of drugs like fentanyl when considering to remove a child from a home.

HB 1227 called for family support rather than child removal. Among these supports has been distributing Narcan, which reverses a fentanyl overdose, as well as lock boxes for users to put drugs into, away from children. Rally organizers said this is not enough.

“Are we going to just keep Narcaning people, or can we do something that’s a little bit more permanent?” Fujita said. “Getting people the help they need so they can safely parent their kids.”

Organizers cited a funding problem, but said HB 1227’s threshold criteria holds back DCYF workers from removing kids from harmful situations whether there is adequate funding or not.

“Our members with our union are going out into these homes and knowing that there’s nothing they can do to keep this child safe,” Lowery said. “It’s keeping us up at night. It is really affecting our mental health because then these

kids die, and then we are the ones that are being put on trial…the media is blaming us, when it’s not us.”

Ortiz-Self’s new bill HB 2497 was first read in the House on Wednesday, which she hopes addresses the specific concerns that the data is showing about fentanyl. It states that if there is “reasonable concern” for a child’s safety (a lower standard than the “imminent physical harm”), the courts can immediately order child care, addressing medical concerns, and removing the child temporarily from home, Ortiz-Self said. That list will be workshopped throughout this legislative session.

“We’ve got to be careful when we do government overreach,” Ortiz-Self said.

“When you go into someone’s house and say, ‘you no longer can have your child,’ we’ve got to be able to prove that.”

Other bills seeking to address the rise in fatalities include HB 1092 from Rep. Travis Couture, R-Allyn, which would change the word “imminent” to “serious.” And HB 2511 from Rep. Tom Dent, R-Moses Lake, that allows “physical imminent harm” to include the presence of illicit drugs.

CITY from page A1

the City had invoices, subcontractor agreements, or daily logs related to Finn Ridge, Wells said, “There are no documents with the city,” explaining that the City pays only the prime contractor, who then pays subcontractors.

Record discrepancies and compliance implications

According to L&I, Finn Ridge initially filed an Intent exceeding $5,000 that was returned for corrections related to required training.

An L&I representative said the training was later completed, but the Intent was not resubmitted for approval and remained incomplete in the subcontractor’s online portal. L&I staff described the subcontractor as not being “legally on the job” for filing purposes because the required documents were never finalized.

Late last month, a Finn Ridge representative told The Sentinel it did perform work on the Incubator Building, highlighting a gap between work performed and documentation on file,

COUNTY from page A1

Undersheriff Carmen Knopes decried what she characterized as a lack of transparency. “Have some meetings, talk to all of us who are directly impacted,” she said. “That hasn’t been done.

Commissioners also held a bid opening for a maintenance contract that drew seven responses. The public works department will check the bidder’s qualifications and return with their recommendation.

Under the consent agenda, commissioners approved:

• A service agreement to update the jury management system with Tyler Technology Software

which has potential consequences under state law and grant rules.

Compliance is critical because releasing payments without verification can expose the City to audit findings or grant compliance issues. Contractors and subcontractors on public works projects are required to file prevailing wage documents, and failing to do so can result in $500 fines per violation, liens against bonds or retainage for unpaid wages, and/or temporary bans from bidding on future public works contracts.

For the City as a grantee, failing to meet Commerce grant requirements can trigger withholding of grant funds, suspension or termination of the grant, repayment of grant money with interest, refunds of disbursed funds, liability for administrative costs or damages, ineligibility for future grants, and increased audit scrutiny.

• A 3-year contract with Mountaindale Maintenance for janitorial services

GOP from page A1

economy to flourish and let us get ahead of the affordability challenge.”

Ferguson stated that the millionaires tax is the best way to reverse Washington’s current regressive tax system, but Republicans believe Ferguson uses this reasoning to justify any new taxes.

Beyond taxes, Republicans raised concerns about budget management, opposing the use of Washington’s rainy day fund to address shortfalls. They cited past withdrawals from the fund and what they described as long-term spending growth and misaligned budget priorities, including an increase in state government middle management.

On transportation and housing, Republican leaders said they agree with the governor that both areas require

• A contract with Granite Construction Co. for Snowden Road overlay.

• A 2-year contract with Pray Electric and Construction LLC for on-call electrical services

• An agreement with WAGAP for a community development block grant

• An interlocal agreement with the City of Bingen for district court services for West District Court

• A preventive maintenance agreement for Wood Gulch bridge

• A resolution concerning Designated Crisis Responders

• A resolution reappointing members to the Klickitat Lead Entity Technical Committee

significant attention but disagree on how solutions should be funded.

The transportation budget is in poor condition, Braun said, calling for shifting existing operating revenue, such as sales tax from car and truck sales, into transportation rather than raising new taxes.

Republicans also argued that the housing crisis cannot be solved through public investment alone, emphasizing the need for private-sector involvement and regulatory reform.

Republican leaders also addressed Ferguson’s condemnation of Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), calling immigration enforcement a federal issue that should not be handled through state legislation. They criticized what they

Hatfield breaks scoring record

AliciA HAtfield For The SenTinel

What a night!

Breaking a scoring record is something truly special. So many athletes put on a uniform, step onto the court, and give it everything they have, but very few ever reach a moment like this. It’s not just about the points on the scoreboard—it’s about the hours in the gym, the early mornings, the late nights, the setbacks, and the determination to keep getting better.

Records like this don’t happen by accident. They’re earned through discipline, trust in teammates, and a love for the game. Watching a record fall is a reminder of just how hard it is to reach that level and how incredible it is when someone finally does. Moments like these don’t come often, and they deserve to be celebrated.

And Grant Hatfield, No. 20, did just that by scoring 48 points, breaking the last record that stood for over a couple decades.  He shot 86%

• A series of resolutions reappointing Commissioner Lori Zoller to various boards and committees, including the Landfill Gas Improvement Committee, the Columbia Gorge Regional Airport Board, and to the Southwest Washington Agency on Aging and Disabilities Council of Government Board for 2026, with Senior Service Director Sharon Carter as an alternate

• Resolutions appointing Commissioner Todd Andrews to various boards and committees, including the Workforce Development Council and the MidColumbia Economic Development District Board for 2026

described as inconsistent messaging from state leadership, saying it creates confusion for law-enforcement agencies tasked with balancing state and federal responsibilities.

Republicans argued that recent attacks on lawenforcement officers help explain why some federal agents wear masks, pushing back on Ferguson’s support for legislation requiring agents to display identifying information.

Despite sharp disagreements, Braun said there is some limited common ground, including the use of existing Climate Commitment Act revenue to fund the Working Families Tax Credit and support transportation and wildfire prevention efforts.

in the field and 100% from the line and was 8 for 10 for 3s.

The Wolves delivered a dominant 104-25 victory over Highland at home, improving their impressive record to 14-3. This commanding performance showcased the team’s depth and exceptional shooting ability as they controlled the game from opening tip to the final buzzer.

Grant put on an absolutely spectacular show, erupting for 48 points on nearly perfect shooting - connecting on 18 of 20 field goals (90%), including an impressive 8 of 10 three-pointers (80%), and a flawless 4-for-4 from the freethrow line. Hatfield caught fire early, scoring 14 points in the first quarter alone, and continued his hot streak throughout the game with multiple scoring runs, including back-to-back three-pointers in both the first and third quarters. His consistency was remarkable as he led the team in scoring in both the first and third quarters with 14 and 18 points respectively.

The Wolves established

dominance immediately, jumping out to a 5-0 lead and never looking back. After Highland briefly cut the deficit to 5-3, the Wolves responded with authority, extending their lead to 33-9 by the end of the first quarter. Caden Fahlencamp, No. 5, provided excellent support, contributing 19 points on efficient 6-of-10 shooting while adding two three-pointers and going 5-for-6 from the free-throw line. He was particularly effective in the second quarter, leading the

team with 11 points during that stretch. Seth Wilder, No. 35, and Andrew Wilder, No. 15, also made significant contributions to the balanced offensive attack. Seth finished with 17 points on 7-of-10

Siebert Meats - The Meating Place opens in Goldendale

Lorrie Fox

For the sentinel

After months of careful renovation, the historic building at 112 S. Columbus Avenue in Goldendale has reopened as Siebert Meats –The Meating Place, a familyowned and operated retail meat and smoke shop offering locally sourced cuts of beef and pork.

The building has worn many hats over the decades, from Jerry’s Stop N Go to, more recently, Café Genevieve’s. When the Siebert family purchased the property in the spring of 2025, it was clear major repairs would be needed to bring the long-vacant space back to life. With the help of family, friends, and many willing hands, the Sieberts transformed the space into an 1800s saloon-style shop that reflects Goldendale’s early character, from century-old

barn wood lining the walls and locally milled blue pine, to historic memorabilia that nods to the building’s past. The meat shop celebrated its grand opening on January 8, 2026.

The Sentinel recently spoke with Kristi Siebert via email.

Sentinel: What motivated you to open a meat market at this location in Goldendale?

Kristi: [During the upgrade to our custom shop in 2025], the perfect location and perfect building presented itself for a convenient retail shop in town. The time was right, and God was in control, so we jumped on the opportunity… We wanted to honor the building and our town while offering farm-fresh, ranch-totable, born and raised, USDAprocessed meat and products.

Sentinel: What experience do you or your staff have in meat processing?

Kristi: In 2019, Logan Siebert, head butcher and

owner of Siebert Custom Slaughter and Meats, opened the custom shop. From there, I—Kristi—and his dad, Chris, came on as full-time employees, and together we have run and operated the butcher shop.

Sentinel: Where is your meat sourced from, and what types of meat products do you offer?

Kristi: At this time, we offer grass-fed, grain-finished beef and pork, and hopefully soon lamb, all locally sourced within 100 miles of Klickitat County. We smoke all our bacon, hams, turkeys, brats, summer sausage, pepperoni, jerky, and more in-house.

Sentinel: Where is your meat processed?

Kristi: We completed a full upgrade to our custom shop in 2025, making it a USDA federally inspected facility.

Sentinel: Do you work with other local or regional farmers?

Kristi: We have been given

many opportunities to work with ranchers and farmers processing beef, pork, and lamb. They truly are the heart of our business. We plan to expand partnerships with more local producers to increase variety and selection… It was always my passion to educate and offer our ranching rural community good quality raised and processed beef, pork, lamb locally grown from the many ranchers throughout Klickitat and surrounding counties to local consumers.

Sentinel: What are your hours of operation?

Kristi: Our current hours are Thursday through Saturday, 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. On any given day, customers can find smoked brisket, pulled pork sandwiches, smoked mac and cheese, smoked tri-tip, ribs, and more.

The family extends a special thank you to Ben Aguilar Perez for the detailed finish work, Morgan Gamble

for the blue pine, and to everyone who helped make The Meating Place a reality. “We look forward to serving the community that serves us,” the Siebert family said.

Hours: Thursday–Saturday, 11 a.m. to 7 p.m.

Location: 112 S. Columbus Avenue, Goldendale, Washington

Email: Siebertkristi@ gmail.com

Fewer people buy health coverage as premiums spike

Nada HassaNeiN Washington state standard

Nationwide, the number of people buying health plans on Obamacare insurance marketplaces is down by about 833,000 compared with a year ago, according to federal data released this week.

Many states are reporting fewer new enrollees, more people dropping their coverage, and more people choosing cheaper and less generous health insurance plans with higher deductibles.

Across most states, Thursday was the last day to enroll for plans that start in February. But nine states and Washington, D.C., have deadlines later this month, so the numbers could change.

There are 21 states with state-run health insurance marketplaces, and the rest use the federal website.

The vast majority of states have seen declines in enrollment so far, compared with around this time last year.

Preliminary data released Monday by the federal Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services shows 22.8 million enrollees, down from a record total of 24.3 million last year.

Premiums have surged as a result of the expiration of enhanced federal subsidies first made available by the American Rescue Plan Act in 2021 and later extended through the end of 2025 by the Inflation Reduction Act. The availability of the subsidies spurred a sharp increase in the number of people buying health plans on the marketplaces. In 2020, 11.4 million people were enrolled in marketplaces through Obamacare, formally known as the Affordable Care Act. More than double that amount enrolled last year.

Congress failed to reach an agreement on extending the subsidies before the end of last year and still hasn’t reached one. As a result, premiums were expected to increase this year by 114% on average—from $888 last year to about $1,904, according to estimates made in September by health policy research organization KFF.

The higher costs appear to be driving many people to forgo insurance or opt for cheaper, less generous plans this year, health officials and analysts say. Several states with state-based marketplaces—including Georgia, Illinois, Minnesota, New York, Vermont, Virginia and Washington—are reporting fewer enrollments this year in comparison with enrollments through early January 2025, according to early data. Other states, such as California, are reporting fewer new enrollees.

“It’s important to consider that this is preliminary data, so this represents people who have signed up and selected the plan—but they probably haven’t received their first premium bill,” said Elizabeth Lukanen, executive director of the health policy research organization State

Health Access Data Assistance Center at the University of Minnesota. “Once that happens, I think there’s concern—and it seems very possible—that people may decide to drop coverage. So, the decline could get bigger. “On the other hand, open enrollment hasn’t closed, so you have two things sort of competing. It seems pretty likely that there will be a decline,” she said. If the downward trend continues, the nation could see the first decline in enrollment since 2020, Lukanen said, adding that a full picture of income levels and demographics of people who have dropped coverage won’t be clear until the summer.

In Pennsylvania, data updated through Tuesday shows more than 15,000 previously enrolled adults between the ages of 55 and 64 have dropped coverage entirely— the most of any age bracket.

Pennsylvania’s state-based exchange, Pennie, has seen about 15% fewer new enrollments compared with last year. The state is also reporting 1,000 residents dropping coverage per day during open enrollment — with the most coverage losses among people with incomes 150% to 200% of the poverty level. These could include families of two adults and two children with an income between $48,225 and $64,300.

The state is seeing an “unprecedented” number of previously enrolled people dropping coverage, said Devon Trolley, executive director of the Pennsylvania Health Insurance Exchange Authority.

California is reporting 31% fewer new enrollees this year compared with last year, and more than a third of new enrollees are choosing bronze plans—the lowest, least generous coverage tier—up from less than a quarter at this time last year.

In Minnesota, data as of Dec. 3 shows more than half of active enrollees are opting to keep their coverage tier. But of those changing plans, more than a third—37%—are going to cheaper plans. The

state notes a full picture won’t be available until March.

Meanwhile, some states are seeing roughly the same number of enrollees or more. Texas, for example, is reporting about 4.1 million people enrolling this year compared with 4 million last year.

Charles Miller, health and economic mobility policy director at Texas 2036, a policy research nonprofit, said it’s unclear why enrollments are up, but pointed to some clues.

“Texas had a uniquely large population of uninsured individuals eligible for free and inexpensive plans that hadn’t enrolled previously … [and] has more affordable bronze and gold plans than many states,” he said.

He attributes that to a bipartisan state law, enacted in 2021, that had the effect of increasing subsidies for those plans, Miller said.

Nevada is seeing fewer enrollees overall. But compared with this time last year, the state is seeing 29% more people who are actively shopping the website to explore plans, said Katie Charleson, communications officer at the Nevada Health Authority Division of Consumer Health Services.

The state introduced a new public option, according to the Nevada Current, and health officials told lawmakers last week that about 1 in 5 active shoppers are opting for that plan.

In addition to the expiration of the subsidies, the cost of coverage has risen because of other factors, according to insurers. They say they’ve had to raise premiums because of rising prescription drug costs, inflation and workforce challenges, such as provider shortages.

But the enhanced premium tax credits were aimed at buffering those year-toyear changes for Americans with lower incomes, said Trolley, adding that the tax credit structure “helps make sure that [enrollees] don’t see those really larger drops that happen from time to time, sort of from

those market forces.”

“When there are broader rate increases of … the total cost of the coverage, the tax credits are structured so that people who get a tax credit don’t feel a lot of that increase. They’re sort of sheltered from it on a year to year basis,” Trolley said.

“The tax credit is tied to someone’s income and limits what they pay as part of their income, not necessarily tied to the cost of the coverage.”

She added that she’s also heard from some residents who say they are waiting to enroll in a plan to see if Congress takes action.

“People are leaving the

ACA marketplace because the trade-offs have just become harder to justify,” Lukanen said. “What worries me is that when the coverage becomes unaffordable, it isn’t that people suddenly stop needing care. They just lose the protection that insurance offers, and those health care costs don’t go away.”

If people are going to the doctor and they don’t have insurance, these costs are then just shifted.

Lukanen added that if more people forgo coverage, health care services may end up costing the nation more overall.

“If people are going to the

doctor and they don’t have insurance, these costs are then just shifted. They’re shifted to hospitals, ultimately to the community and the taxpayer.”

Trolley echoed that, saying she’s concerned about the overall burden on providers in rural counties, which are seeing the highest drops in Obamacare coverage in Pennsylvania.

“Any increase in the uninsured rate is going to further strain providers that are in rural areas, especially — further strain their financial situation,” she said. “We are very concerned about that in Pennsylvania.”

PUBLIC NOTICE

IN THE SUPERIOR COURT OF THE STATE OF WASHINGTON IN AND FOR THE COUNTY OF KING

In re The Estate of Gary C. Clouse, Deceased No. 25-4-06389-2 SEA NOTICE TO CREDITORS (RCW 11.40.030)

The Person named below has been appointed as 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 its attorney at the address stated below a copy of the claim and filing the original of the claim with the court. The claim must be presented within the later of: (a) Thirty days after the personal representative served or mailed the notice to the creditor as provided under RCW 11.40.020(3); 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 will be forever barred, except as otherwise provided in RCW 11.40.051 and 11.40.060. This bar is effective as to claims against both the decedent’s probate and non-probate assets. Date of First Publication:

January 7, 2026.

Personal Representative: SHANNA MICHELLE (CLOUSE) PEEK

Attorney for Personal Representative: Sophie Delane Asher

Address for Mailing or Service: 1833 N. 105th St., Suite 101, Seattle, WA 98133

/s/ SOPHIE DELANE ASHER

SOPHIE DELANE ASHER

Attorney for SHANNA MICHELLE (CLOUSE) PEEK, Personal Representative (0107, 0203, 0301)

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

N otices

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 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

This Just In....

• Summons by Publication: The Estate of Homer and Adele Goulet - Paine Hamblen, P.S

• Notice of Public Hearing: CUP 2025-03 White Salmon Valley Pool Metro Park and Recreation DistrictKlickitat County Planning Department

Notice of Election: February 10, 2026 - Klickitat

County Auditor

Summons for Publication: Steven D, Chard - Elite Posting and Publication

Klickitat County Mitigated Determination of NonSignificance: SEPA2025-25 Circle T EnterprisesKlickitat County Planning Department

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 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

PUBLIC NOTICE

2026 Call For Salmon Habitat Project Applications

The Salmon Recovery Funding Board awards grant funds to protect and restore salmon habitat in Washington State. Applicants must submit proposals to their local Lead Entity for evaluation before the Salmon Recovery Funding Board considers a project for funding. For projects located in Water Resources Inventory Areas 29b, 30, and 31, the designated Lead Entity is the Klickitat County Lead Entity.

#1, Centerville School District #215, Trout Lake School District #400, Glenwood School District #401, Klickitat School District #402, White Salmon School District #405-17 and Lyle School District #406 in Klickitat County. The election will be conducted by mail ballot.

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 (0207, 0302, 0401, 0501, 0601, 0701)

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, 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

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)

Eligible Applicants: Cities, Counties, State Agencies, Private Landowners, Native American Tribes, Non-Profit Organizations, Conservation Districts, Special Purpose Districts, and Regional Fisheries Enhancement Groups. Eligible Projects Types: Acquisition, Restoration, Planning, and Combination Projects (i.e. Acquisition and Restoration) of high priority within the designated Lead Entity area, with all project types having their own specificities and allowable sub-project types, such as Riparian, Design, etc. Additionally, Riparian projects funded through the Climate Commitment Act that fit the qualities of the above project types will also be eligible for funding. For more information on allowable projects please consult either the Klickitat County Natural Resources Department, or the Washington State Recreation and Conservation Office. Complete applications are due to the Klickitat Lead Entity no later than April 10, 2026. Additional requirements also apply. To apply for, or seek additional information, please contact: Klickitat County Natural Resources Department Email: keatonc@klickitatcounty.org Phone: 509-773-2410

For more information about the Klickitat Lead Entity, please visit our website at: https:// www.klickitatcounty.gov/243/ Salmon-Habitat-Recovery (0211, 0304)

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the Klickitat County Board of Adjustment will hold a public hearing on February 2, 2026 at 7:00 pm The purpose of said hearing is to hear all interested parties who wish to testify for or against the following proposal: Conditional Use Permit Application No. CUP 2025-03. Applicant: White Salmon Valley Pool Metro Park and Recreation District. Proposal for the construction of a new public swimming pool facility on 1.4 acre portion of School District #405 property. The facility will include an outdoor 8-lane swimming pool, a bathhouse complex, and office space. The proposed project is located within a portion of Section 13, T3N, R10, W.M., Klickitat County, WA (White Salmon vicinity near the middle and high schools) on tax parcel 03101309120100.

The Board of Adjustment may approve, deny, approve with conditions, table, or continue the matters to a set time and place. Participation in person: The meeting will be held at the Klickitat County Services Building, 115 West Court St, Room 200, Goldendale, WA 98620.

• Participation in this meeting will also be offered virtually via zoom: to join the meeting: Use this link https://us06web.zoom.us/j/8 2025402891?pwd=sbcbDJ BjPHO207mu3OemTJBn2N sNb2.1

• Or call: 929-205-6099 or 253-215-8782 and use the Meeting ID: 820 2540 2891 Passcode: 767406

If you have questions regarding the land use proposal, submitting comments or attending a virtual hearing, please contact the Planning Department at (509) 773-5703 or email loria@klickitatcounty.org BY ORDER of the Klickitat County Board of Adjustment dated this 9th day of January 2026.

/s/ Neil Kayser, Chairman Scott Edelman, Planning Director (0305)

NOTICE OF ELECTION

Notice is hereby given that a Special Election will be held in Klickitat County, Washington, February 10, 2026, in all precincts within Cemetery District

Voter registration forms are available at post offices, libraries, or at the Auditor’s Office. Registrations and updates may also be submitted online at votewa.gov. The last day to register to vote, transfer or update an existing registration by mail or online is February 2, 2026. The last day to register to vote or update your voter registration in person is February 10, 2026 in the Klickitat County Auditor’s Office, 205 S. Columbus Ave. Room 203.

On or before January 23, 2026, the Auditor’s Office will mail, or cause to be mailed, to each qualified voter, within the county, a ballot. Ballots returned by mail must be postmarked by February 10, 2026. No postage is required if mailed within the United States. Ballots returned inperson to our office or dropped into a designated drop box must be returned by 8:00 P.M. on February 10, 2026. Replacement ballots may be obtained from the Auditor’s Office or by visiting votewa.gov. The Auditor’s Office shall provide the availability of registration and voting aids, assistance to elderly and disabled persons, and procedures for voting by mail. Contact the Auditor’s Office if you need assistance with a mail ballot. The Accessible Voting Unit is equipped with audio and visual technology which allows voters with limited vision, hearing, or physical disabilities to vote more independently. This unit is available in the Auditor’s Office beginning January 23, 2026, through February 9, 2026, during regular business hours Monday through Friday from 8:30 A.M. to noon. and 1:00 P.M.to 5:00 P.M. On Election Day, February 10, 2026, the Accessible Voting Unit is available from 8:30 A.M. to noon and 1:00 P.M. to 8:00 P.M. If you need an accessibility accommodation, please contact the Auditor’s Office at (509) 773-4001, (800) 5838050 or by emailing voting@ klickitatcounty.org, no later than five working days prior to the date service is needed. The statewide random compliance signature check in conjunction with the Secretary of State’s Office will take place at 9:00 A.M on February 13, 2026 in the Auditor’s Office. The canvassing board will hold a public meeting at 8:30 A.M., pursuant to RCW 29A.60, February 17, 2026, to examine returns and at 8:30 A.M., February 20, 2026, to certify the cumulative results, precinct results and a reconciliation report of the votes cast. These meetings will be held in the Klickitat County Services Building located at 115 W. Court St., Goldendale, WA 98620 in the Mt. St. Helens Conference Room on the third floor. For google meets login information, visit our website at: http://www.klickitatcounty. gov/1136/ElectionsVoter-Registration and select the Current Election tab. Additional information may be obtained by phone (509) 7734001 or (800) 583-8050 and by visiting www.klickitatcounty. gov/1136/ElectionsVoter-Registration. Dated this 15th day of January, 2026. Heather Jobe, Klickitat County Auditor and Ex Officio Supervisor of Elections (0306) 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

c lassifieds

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. 509-7735227.

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 IN SEARCH OF old-style ground drive manure spreader, working or repairable 509-439-1158

ENCYCLOPEDIA Full set of 1966 World Book Encyclopedias $100 509-773-5666 leave a message BLUE FIG ROLLING SEWING MACHINE CART, purple, 24” x 12” x 20” big enough for two machines $130 509-261-2038

RIMS (4) stock 16” 5 lug $75 Rims 509-342-6923 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.

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

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.

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

TOPS OR #942 meets at Gateway Presbyterian Church, The Dalles, Thursdays, 5:30-6:30pm.

AA in MAUPIN (open), Maupin Community Church, 490 5th St., Thursdays @ 7pm.

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 @ 541340-0142.

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)

KLICKITAT COUNTY MITIGATED DETERMINATION OF NON-SIGNIFICANCE Notice is hereby given that

RECOVERING

COUPLES ANONYMOUS Meets 2nd & 4th Sundays at 10am. 216 Cascade St., Suite 26 Hood River

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

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

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

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

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

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

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.

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.

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

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

ALCOHOLICS ANONYMOUS meetings please go to gorgeaa.org.

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.

Survivors of Suicide 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.

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

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.

DEMENTIA 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.

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 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

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

WOOD Stove. Attractive with brass framed window and stove pipe & chimney sweep accessories. 1/3 cord of wood also included. $350. 541-386-3363

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 one of our newspapers to play your ad: Hood River News

541-386-1234 The Dalles Chronicle

541-296-2141 White Salmon Enterprise 509-493-2112

COUCH. Medium-sized couch with hide-a-bed. Brown and tan fabric. $45. 541-354-1748.

FOOD Dehydrator, 9 shelves. $15. 541-354-1748. $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.

Furniture

COUCH. Medium-sized couch with hide-a-bed. Brown and tan fabric. $45. 541-354-1748. Heating & Air Conditioning WOOD Stove. Attractive with brass framed window and stove pipe & chimney sweep accessories. 1/3 cord of wood also included. $350. 541-386-3363 Miscellaneous FOOD Dehydrator, 9 shelves. $15. 541-354-1748.

Klickitat County issued a Mitigated Determination of Non-significance (MDNS) on January 15, 2026 under SEPA Rules (Chapter 197-11 WAC) and the Klickitat County Environmental Ordinance Number 121084, as amended, for the following proposal: SEPA 2025-25. Applicant: Circle T Enterprise. A Short Plat application requesting to subdivide 154 acres into four lots. The proposed short plat is located in a portion of Section

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.

Cats

TABBY NEEDS A GOOD HOME

Free to a good home, beautiful neutered female tabby. About 4 years old. Uses cat door to independently go in/ outside. Was trained initially to a litter box. She’s a great mouser. We’re in a position where we need to find her a new home. 509-493-4567.

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 Your

27, T2N, R13E, W.M. Klickitat County, WA (Dallesport vicinity) on tax parcel 02-13-27000008/00. After review of the completed environmental checklist and other information on file the Klickitat County Responsible Official has determined that this proposal will not have probable significant adverse impacts on the environment. Copies of the MDNS are available at the Klickitat County Planning Department during

normal business hours. Comments on the above project is due by 5:00 pm February 5, 2026. Appeals on the above environmental review will be accepted until 5:00 pm February 12, 2026. Appeals must be made to the Board and filed with the Klickitat County Auditor’s office. Appeals shall not be deemed complete without payment of the applicable appeal fees payable to Klickitat County Planning Department. (0308)

national origin, or an intention to make any such preferences, limitations or discriminations. Familial state includes children under the age of 18 living with parents or legal custodians, pregnant women & people securing custody of children under 19. This newspaper will not knowingly accept any adverting for real estate which is in violation of the law. All persons are hereby informed that all dwellings advertised are available on an equal opportunity basis. To complain of discrimination call HUD toll-free at 1-800669-9777, TTY/TDD:

Help Wanted UNDERWOOD CONSERVATION

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.

January 24, Family Movie Night: 6 p.m. at The Lodge, 219 S Columbus. Join us for interactive Family Fun nght, bring your blankets and pillows!, there will be gift bags, popcorn, and drinks. Questions call 509-2812330. Sponsored by CPAKC, Ft Vancounver Regional Libraries, and WAGAP.

January 24, Growing through the Seasons: Garden Planning: 10 - 11:30 a.m. at the Goldendale Community Library. Join us for our second annual Growing Through the Seasons series with Paulette Lefever-Holbrook as she talks about preparing for and planning a garden.

February6, Art for the Heart: 6 - 9 p.m at the Goldendale Grange Hall on East Darland. Get heart smart while making art! Keynote speaker Joel Rhyner, PC-C Cardiology. Tickets are $30

February 7, Galentines Soiree: 3 - 7 p.m. at the Field of Starq Boutique, 4 Bickleton Hwy Goldendale. An Open-House Self-Care Celebration

Community Events

Grab your besties (or come solo and make new soul sisters) and join us for a cozy, creative Galentine’s Day Soirée—an open-house style celebration centered around self-love, creativity, and connection. Admission: $5 Your ticket includes entry to the event plus food and drinks to enjoy while you mingle, create, and relax. Create Your Own SelfCare Magic Throughout the day, you’ll have access to 10 self-care stations, where you can make and customize items that nourish your body, mind, and spirit. Each item is priced à la carte, so you can choose exactly what calls to you. Hands-On Craft Experiences (À La Carte): Beauty Mirror Craft –decorate and personalize your own mirror. Custom Smudge Stick or Selenite Wand –intuitively choose and create. Flower Candles – decorate a pair of taper candles with gorgeous pressed flowers This is a come-and-go, open house—stay as long as you like, explore at your own pace, sip something yummy, and soak in the loving Galentine’s energy. Whether you’re celebrating friendship, self-love, or just craving a creative night out, this soirée is all about honoring you.

February 7, Winter Book Sale: 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. at the Goldendale Community Library. Join us for a pop up book sale to celebrate reopening the Basement Bookstore. If you’d like to volunteer or donate books call

TUESDAY DELIVERY DRIVER • Approximately 6 hour shift from 7am-1pm • Company Van Provided Local newspaper delivery driver needed on Tuesdays. Job is to pick up delivery in Hood River early morning and take to post offices and then deliver to all newsstands and stores in The Dalles. Company van provided. The delivery driver oversees weekly delivery of the newspaper and keeping newsstands in clean and good working conditions. Must have clean driving record with valid local driver’s license. Requires the

Betty 509-250-3746

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

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

2026 Alder Creek Pioneer Rodeo Queen Trynity’s Coronation! We’ll have a silent auction, and dinner/ticket information will be announced soon.

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!

February15, Galentine’s Wine & Chocolate Pairing: 15 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 Chocolates. Expect handcrafted 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, 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 Dzikowski 509-772-2693 or ldzikowski@kvhealth.net

February 21 & 22, After the Storm: 7 p.m. at the Bingen Theater on Oak Street in Bingen. After the Storm

Saturday, February 21, 7 p.m.

Sunday, February 22, 2 p.m. & 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.

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

ETC

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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

That Body in the Lobby In cheaper hotels and motels, the room at the far end of the hall next to the stairwell is sometimes called the “murder room” - the assumption being that if a crime were to be committed, that room would be the most likely place. The reality is that most crimes in hotels are property crimes, so you are statistically safer than you would be in many other places, but mystery authors do like to have their amateur detectives falling over bodies at both posh hotels and quaint country inns.

The reviews for all of the following lodgings would start with “Tripped over a corpse, would not recommend.” Before you book your next retreat, let’s look at a list of places where you probably don’t want to stay:

• “At Bertram’s Hotel” by Agatha Christie (1965)Bertram’s Hotel in London

• “Murder at the Mayfair Hotel” by C. J. Archer (2020)The Mayfair Hotel, a luxury hotel in London, 1899

• “The Maid” by Nita Prose (2022) - The Regency Grand Hotel, unnamed city, probably present-day North America

• “Moonflower Murders” by Anthony Horowitz (2020)The Polydorus Hotel on a small Greek island, and the Farlingaye Hall on the Suffolk (east) coast of England. Two hotels for the price of one!

• “The Hotel Neversink” by Adam O’Fallon Price (2019)The Hotel Neversink in the Catskill Mountains, New York And some series that take place in inns and B&Bs:

• Pennsylvania Dutch mysteries by Tamar Myer - set in the PennDutch Inn in Pennsylvania

• Gray Whale Inn mysteries by Karen MacInerney - set in Gray Whale Inn off the coast of Maine on a fictional island

• The League of Literary Ladies mysteries by Kylie Logan - one character owns the Bea & Bees Inn on an island in Lake Erie

Easy bites for the big game

(Family Features) Whether you’re

tailgating with friends or hosting a watch party at home, every football fan needs a game plan to crunch, dip and cheer their way through opening kickoff, halftime and right down to the final play of the game. Some of the best game day grub is hearty and savory, but adding layers of flavor and texture can take recipes to the next level. For example, these Burger Bowls feature all the classic ingredients of a great burger, just without the bun. A tasty option for gluten-free guests or those who are cutting carbs, the bowls are made with Dandy Iceberg Lettuce from Duda Farm Fresh Foods, which boasts a legacy of quality, innovation and consistency in fresh produce cultivation since 1926.

Pulled pork, another tailgating treasure, gets an instant upgrade with the crunch of a fresh coleslaw topper and zesty pickled celery and jalapenos on the side. The winning play is to use crisp, fresh celery for the best flavors and a satisfying crunch with every bite. Since celery is 95% water and high in fiber, it leaves fans feeling comfortably full and ready to root for their favorite team.

This season, keep your snacks fresh and healthy while winning prizes like product coupons and gift cards to stock up for the next game through the Dip It to Win It Sweepstakes. Visit dudafresh.com to learn more and find additional game day recipes.

Pulled Pork Sandwiches with Pickled Celery and Jalapenos Recipe courtesy of The Adventure Bite

Prep time: 10 minutes

Cook time: 10 hours

Servings: 9-10 • 4 1/2

1/2

1/2

fresh cracked black pepper

• fresh sandwich buns

• Dandy Celery, cut and pickled

• jalapenos coleslaw (optional)

• potato salad (optional) • baked beans (optional) Place pork in slow cooker. Mix barbecue sauce, garlic and pepper. Pour over pork shoulder. Cook on low 8 1/2-10 hours or high 6-7 hours. Shred meat and serve on buns with pickled celery and jalapenos. Top with coleslaw, if desired. Serve with potato salad or baked beans, if desired. Burger Bowls Recipe courtesy of Casa de Crews

Prep time: 10 minutes

Cook time: 10 minutes

Servings: 4

Burger Bowls:

• 2 cups French fries, homemade or frozen

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• 1 small yellow onion, diced

• 1 pound ground beef or ground turkey

1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce

1 teaspoon garlic powder

• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika

• 1/2 teaspoon salt

• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

• Dandy Iceberg Lettuce, shredded

• 2-3 Roma tomatoes, diced

• pickle chips or spears, chopped cheddar cheese, shredded Burger Sauce:

• 1/3 cup mayonnaise

• 2 tablespoons ketchup

• The Pennyfoot Hotel mysteries by Kate Kingsbury - set in the Pennyfoot Hotel by the seaside in Edwardian England

• Book Lover’s B&B mysteries by Victoria Gilbert - set in Chapters B&B in Beaufort, North Carolina

• Redwood Cove mysteries by Janet Finsilver - set in Redwood Cove B&B in coastal northern California

• Cajun Country mysteries and Golden Motel mysteries by Ellen Byron - set in the Crozat Plantation B&B in Louisiana and the Golden Motel-of-the-Mountains in California’s Sierra Nevada mountains, respectively

• Book Retreat mysteries by Ellery Adams - set in the resort of Storyton Hall in rural western Virginia

• Bed and Breakfast mysteries by Mary Daheim - set in the Hillside Manor Inn on Queen Anne Hill in Seattle, Washington

• Island Sisters mysteries by Hannah DennisonTregarrick Rock Hotel in the Isles of Scilly off the coast of Cornwall Beth Wood is a senior collection development librarian for Fort Vancouver Regional Libraries. Email her at readingforfun@fvrl.org.

• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard or yellow mustard

• 1 tablespoon pickle juice

• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce

• 1 teaspoon onion powder

1 teaspoon garlic powder

• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika

To make burger bowls: Cook French fries according to package directions.

In medium skillet over medium-high heat, heat olive oil. Add onion and saute until translucent, 5-7 minutes. Add ground beef to skillet, breaking up meat with spatula. Add Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, paprika, salt and pepper; brown until cooked through. Drain and discard excess liquid and grease.

To make burger sauce: In jar, mix mayonnaise, ketchup, mustard, pickle juice, Worcestershire sauce, onion powder, garlic powder and paprika well to combine.

Assemble bowls with layer of shredded lettuce, 3-4 ounces ground beef, diced tomatoes, pickles, cheddar cheese and 1/2 cup fries. Drizzle with burger sauce and mix well.

Tip: Burger sauce can be made in advance and stored in refrigerator in jar with airtight lid.

NONFICTION

CHILDREN

For the most part, I congratulate myself on being relatively competent at managing technology. I don’t have an overwhelming fear of learning new apps or platforms and have even caught myself feeling a little smug when others profess terror at the prospect of updating their website or mastering a new program.

All smugness disappeared this week.

I got caught in a technology black hole over a $20 bill. I owed a company $20 for forwarding my email to me. This is something that should have taken less than a minute to resolve. Three days later, I was still battling.

The company was based in India. I won’t bore you with the details of why it was based in India or how this company was chosen (I had plenty of opportunity to question the choice over the last three days), but it has provided excellent service, and I had had no reason to believe it wasn’t a good choice. Until this week.

I couldn’t log in to my account. That was the only problem. They did not have my phone number on record, and the only other means of verifying my account involved changing information in the directory of my website, and I knew—before I even tried—I was in over my head.

(I realize there are tech-savvy folks reading this right now and saying, “How hard could that be?” and I’m sure they are right; it was probably much easier than I imagined, but that does not mean it was not far more difficult than I could manage.)

So I wrote an email. The response I received provided an entirely new set of instructions for how to verify the account. I wrote back asking for clarification. A different tech person replied with an answer that appeared to bear no relation to

the question I had asked. I wrote back with more questions; they dutifully provided replies. Every email was signed by a different employee of this very large tech company in India. Every letter was exceedingly polite—and made not one bit of sense.

I parsed the letters carefully. I read them aloud. I looked for similar phrases as if I were looking for clues to find a buried treasure—although in this case, my treasure was the privilege of paying them $20 and not having my email shut off.

Twenty emails later (this is not an exaggeration), I began to despair. I realized I had accomplished almost nothing in the last two days other than write emails to India. I had visions of an endless line of Indian technicians—stretching as far as the eye could see—ready to write pleasant replies to a witless woman in the U.S.

As I exhausted the patience of one technician, another would step into his place, producing an infinite supply of unfailingly polite and utterly incomprehensible technical jargon.

I caved. I hired someone on Fiverr from Bangladesh to serve as an intermediary. With my permission, he took over my computer, figured out how to get into my account, arranged a Zoom call with the company and—after a scheduled Zoom call and yet one more phone conversation—I was able to pay the $20.

“I don’t suppose I could pay for more than a year?” I asked at the end of the final phone call.

“No, but this will take you all the way to the end of 2026!” the exceedingly cheerful company spokesman told me.

I have many wonderful expectations for 2026, but I am already working up a little dread for the year’s end.

To see photos, check out CarrieClassonAuthor on Facebook or visit CarrieClasson.com.

Have you ever dreamed of standing in a place where the mountains scrape the sky, bears roam freely, and the night sky glows with dancing lights? If so, Alaska might be calling your name. Alaska is a place that feels like a giant adventure waiting to happen. It is the largest state in the United States. It is so big that you could fit many other states inside it. Just think of it, the state of Rhode Island could fit in it 425 times! Alaska’s huge size makes it feel wild and mysterious, like nature is telling its own story.

Alaska wasn’t always part of the U. S. It was bought from Russia for $7.2 million, and it didn’t become a state until 1959. Can you imagine paying 7.2 million dollars for that much land? Today some people pay that much for a house. Gold was soon discovered and people rushed to the north to get rich.

The animals of Alaska are some of the most exciting in the world. Huge brown bears, moose and caribou travel across the state. In the ocean, whales leap from the water, and seals rest on floating ice. Polar bears wander the ice fields looking for the seals in a quest to find food. Seeing these animals in the wild is like a living nature movie but the movie doesn’t end with the animals. If you listen carefully you might hear the cracking and popping sounds that glaciers make as they move toward the sea. If you want to climb the highest mountain in North America, head to Denali National Park where the mountain the park is named after, stands 20,310 feet above sea level. Or, if you are really adventurous you might want to try out Alaska’s official sport, dog sledding, which is called mushing by the native Alaskans.

Did you know that Alaska was attacked during World War II? In 1942, Japanese forces bombed Dutch Harbor killing 43 Americans. They took over and controlled two Alaskan islands, Kiska and Attu. Every single resident on the island of Attu was taken to Japan and held in prisoner of war camps. The Japanese were on the islands for about a year before Canadian and U.S forces took back the land and chased the invaders back into the Pacific Ocean. It was not until August of 1945 that the Attu captives were released.

Alaska’s seasons are very different from most places in the United States. Part of this state is in the Arctic circle and it is closer to the North Pole than any other state. In the summer, parts of Alaska have very long days. In the far north, the sun does not set at all for weeks. During the Winter it is cold, snowy, and dark. You may not see the sun for weeks and the temperature can get as low as -80 degrees Fahrenheit.