There’s a new tourist attraction in the works for Klickitat County. By a two to one vote at their February 24 meeting, Klickitat County commissioners voted to allow local businessman Ty Ross to put a giant American flag on a 200-foot flagpole on the lawn in front of the county courthouse in Goldendale. A number of people crowded into the commission meeting room to testify about the project. Most were strongly in favor of the project; a few raised questions. Here’s a sampler of the testimony:
Andy Kallanin: “I’m running for county commissioner, and when I’m elected this November and I take office next year, I would donate my first month’s paycheck to the maintenance fund of this flag and a portion of my salary for the rest of the term.”
Theresa Babler: “I’m against this. That does not mean I’m not patriotic. I was held at gun point in Russia when I was 16 years old. I came out of that being probably one of the most patriotic people that there are. That flag that’s out there on the courthouse lawn now is very patriotic to me. It doesn’t need to be 200 feet tall and however big for me to be patriotic.”
Susan Marlowe: “I’m a retired teacher, so I went right to the kids. We had 13 votes yes, and two
votes no. One no was, ‘What if it gets struck by lightning?’ And the other one was, ‘What if the wind blows it over?’ The 13 opinions for the flag were the flag would represent us loving America. And this is out of the mouths of babes.”
Andrew Smith: “I did talk to some old timers here. When that old courthouse was taken down, it sounds like they just buried everything, and it’s unsafe. Who knows what’s buried down in there? So I don’t know if anybody did any preliminary scanning of the ground to see where they’re at, but I was told it’s highly dangerous down there. So maybe we can move the flagpole to the high school here in Goldendale.”
Klickitat County Sheriff Bob Songer: “It’s paid for, it’s not out of the budget. A man and his wife stepped up to pay for this and put aside a fund to pay for it. You’ve got the American Legion who’s willing to jump in [with support]. There is no God-given reason why you should not vote for this.”
What likely tipped it into acceptance was a pledge of continued support by the Ross Foundation. Riley Ross read a statement that said in part: “We are proud to formally commit that the Ross Foundation will assume responsibility for all ongoing maintenance costs associated with the flagpole, including structural upkeep, lighting, and flag replacement. Our in-
Brooks planting trees in fire scars
lorrie
The path of the 2011 Monastery Fire is still visible as it cuts left through the Brooks group camp area just past the entrance to Brooks Memorial State Park when driving south on Highway 97. The fire burned approximately 75 acres, primarily affecting the park’s group camp and retreat center, which had been shaded by mature trees.
Fifteen years later, park staff are preparing to plant about 1,200 trees across a seven-acre stretch marked by grasses, forbs (herbaceous plants other than grasses), and lingering gray patches of recovery.
Leading the effort is Washington State Park Ranger Aaron Ricker, who says currently about six Washington State Parks staff members are available to do the planting. At an estimated 10 to 15 trees per person per hour, it would take at least 80 hours to get them all in the ground.
“One of the challenges we’re facing is accomplishing this planting project in a timely manner. That’s why we’re asking for help from the community,” Ricker said. “Many hands make light work.”
The plan itself has been months in the making. A Washington State Parks natural resource specialist developed and refined it, adjusting species, volume, and
coverage to give the project its best chance of success. Yet competition for resources is already underway in the area. Some plant life has returned since the fire, but much of the ground remains open and vulnerable.
The intent is to stick with tree varieties indigenous to the area. Most of the trees will be bare-root Ponderosa pine, with some Douglas maple and quaking aspen, and more mature trees will be planted closer to the group camp to provide shade in the near future.
“We’re trying to reestablish the native flora and improve the recreational enjoyment of the area,” Ricker said.
The new trees will eventually fill space, provide safer habitat for deer and gray squirrels, serve as a sound break from highway traffic, and gradually restore the visual character of the park.
Still, recovery won’t be immediate. “We want to see an immediate return on our investment,” Ricker acknowledged. “But that’s just not the way nature works. We have to be patient and learn to enjoy the process.”
There are no guarantees in forest work, he noted. Even with natural irrigation in the area and plans to build additional infrastructure to help young trees get established, staff anticipate as much as a 50 percent mortality rate. Of the 1,200 trees planted, perhaps 600 may survive long
Brock Warrener
For The SenTinel
February 19 and 20, the center of the high school sports world in Washington was located at the Tacoma Dome as the Washington high school wrestling state championships—Mat Classic XXXVII—took place. The Goldendale High School Wrestling team brought 12 players to represent their hometown, coaches, and parents in an attempt to achieve their own mat dreams and get to climb to the top step of the podium as a state champion. It was a dream Mathew Gray demonstrated to his community and teammates the past two years. This year he was a spectator as his brother, Jacob Gray, and teammates got to compete to see if Goldendale would bring home another championship. Goldendale wrestling has quietly become the envy of many wrestling programs in Washington. Chris Williams, alumni of Goldendale High School, took over as the head coach at GHS seven years ago. This year marked the fourth consecutive year Goldendale has finished as a top ten team in state. His assistant coaches are James Barnes, Chris Visser, and Bill Campbell. He is supported by his wife Rachele who is the ultimate Mat Mom and works tirelessly behind the scenes supporting everything from communications to painting the bus heading to
state. Chris credits that without Rachele, none of this would be possible. Together they started Goldendale Grapplers, the youth wrestling program, nine years ago. Many of the original Grapplers medaled at this year’s Mat Classic. Two players of those original Grapplers were junior Rydell Myers and sophomore Olivia Myers who were the next Goldendale wrestlers to compete in the state championship matches. The Myers brother and sister worked their way through their brackets, creating one of the most intense moments of the whole weekend. They stepped onto their respective mats at the exact same time for their semifinal championship bouts. Lucky for their family, their mats were adjacent to each other in a dome filled with 24 wrestling mats. Their mom, Brandy Myers, recalls being on the edge of her seat squeezing the poor fan’s shoulders in front of her, not sure where to look—left, then right, right and then left, depending on the position the kids were in. “It was wild, it was wild! It was one of those lifetime moments and I wasn’t going to miss a moment,” Brandy said.
Fortunately for the blood pressure of her family watching, Olivia Myers did what she does best and achieved a pin with 7 seconds remaining in the first round, something she has done to her teammates and boys and
girls around the state the past seven years of her life. Upon finishing the match Olivia, dropped to her knees, crying happy tears knowing her dream was one match away from a 110lb State Championship. Rydell’s match would go the distance, a full three rounds of two minutes each. Myers was in control the whole match and built up a sizeable lead. However, there is never a match where any lead is safe. He stayed in the moment and finished his opponent by points, 14-3, earning the opportunity to compete for the 132lb title.
Other Goldendale wrestlers to make their way to the semifinal championship were junior Aidan Minne at 150 lbs and sophomore Max Wirshup at 190 lbs. Minne was matched up against the defending state champion from Tonasket, while Wirshup took on an athlete from Kittitas who became the state champion later that night. Minne battled valiantly but lost the semifinal and wound up taking 6th place, improving from his 8th place finish in 2025. Wirshup would also lose his semifinal but through grit and determination would end the night with a 3rd place medal around his neck.
Senior Brielle Starr was back at the Mat Classic after her exciting 2nd place finish in 2025. The tournament didn’t quite turn out the way she had envisioned
alicia haTField For The SenTinel
The Timberwolves delivered an outstanding road performance recently, defeating Bridgeport 69-61 to improve their impressive record to 20-3 in a loser outgame. Playing away from home at Bridgeport, the team showed tremendous resilience and clutch shooting when it mattered most, using balanced scoring and timely three-point shooting to secure the victory.
The game featured multiple momentum swings and lead changes, with both teams trading runs throughout the contest. After Seth Wilder got the Wolves off to a quick start with 10 first-quarter points, Bridgeport responded with scoring streaks of 8 points in the first quarter and 9 points early in the second. The Wolves found themselves trailing 29-28 at halftime, but the third quarter belonged to their sharp-shooting guards. Caden Fahlencamp sparked a crucial turnaround with back-to-back three-pointers, contributing 8 points in the quarter as the Wolves took a 45-41 lead
into the final period. The fourth quarter was a thrilling back-and-forth battle with seven lead changes and two ties. With the game knotted at 59-59 late in the contest, the Wolves’ veteran leadership shined through. Seth Wilder put them ahead with a clutch basket, then Brody Hatfield took over with three consecutive three-pointers in the final minutes, scoring 6 straight points to give the Wolves breathing room at 67-59. Seth Wilder led all scorers with an efficient 20-point performance, shooting an outstanding 69% from the field (9-13) and
perfect from the free-throw line (2-2). Brody Hatfield provided the game-winning heroics with 17 points, including five three-pointers on 62% shooting from beyond the arc. Caden Fahlencamp added 11 crucial points on excellent 67% field goal shooting, hitting 3 of 5 threepoint attempts. Grant Hatfield chipped in 9 points and was perfect from the free-throw line (3-3),
Fire victims will find rebuilding easier
RodgeR Nichols
For The SenTinel
Good news for victims of the Rowena and Burdoin fires. The Secretary of Agriculture has signed off on changes the Gorge Commission made to the Management Plan for the National Scenic Area, which will make rebuilding easier. Though the Secretary has the ultimate responsibility for concurring with the changes, in practice, the decision has been delegated through the Chief of the Forest Service to the Regional Forester for Region 6, who supervises Oregon and Washington forests and grasslands.
Current Region 6 Forester Jacqueline Buchanan
transmitted the letter of approval to Gorge Commission Executive Director Krystyna Wolniakowski on February 24. It concludes: “As a result of our review of the Amendment, I concur with the Columbia River Gorge Commission that the Amendment is consistent with the Act. The Amendment is consistent with the purposes of the Act and with the standards of Section 6(d) of the Act. The Amendment supports the recovery of the Gorge after disaster through the clarification of review standards and expanded allowances for reconstruction.”
People who have lost their homes will be able to put up a shed to store tools during rebuilding, will have 10
years to rebuild with expedited review instead of two, and will be able to park an RV on the property to stay in during the rebuilding process. Here’s how Gorge Commission attorney Jeff Litwak described the process on the Oregon side to a meeting of the Gorge Commission Rules Committee February 25.
“Wasco County is doing essentially a self-issued checklist type permit,” he said. “So you would go into Wasco County, get the form, fill out the form, and you would give it to the county planner. The county planner would essentially look at the form and then sign off on it. That is, in Oregon law, what we call a ministerial permit. It doesn’t require
State changes rural definition
ANNikA hAueR
WaShingTon STaTe Journal
Cowlitz County may fall under rural designation again under a proposed bill that changes the population thresholds and redefines what a rural county is.
Since 1999, Washington has designated a county as “rural” if it has a population density of 100 people or less per square mile.
In 2025, Cowlitz County surpassed that threshold, removing its rural designation.
Just under 30 of Washington’s 39 counties are designated “rural,” allowing
those counties to be eligible for certain economic grants and redevelopment grants. In these counties, the distance between homes and grocery stores, hospitals, and other houses causes a need for additional infrastructure funding, Sen. Jeff Wilson, R-Longview, the main sponsor of the bill, said.
Counties smaller than 225 square miles—San Juan County and Island County—are rural as well, despite having more than 100 people per square mile. Wilson’s bill would make counties with no city greater than 45,000 persons
rural, even if the person per square mile exceeds 100. A prior version of this bill would have made 75,000 the city cap.
Cowlitz County is the only county whose status would change, with Longview’s population at roughly 38,000, even though the county has a population density that exceeds 100 residents per square mile.
Walla Walla County is one of the closest counties that could need the changed designation in the coming decades, with a density of about 47 people per square mile and Walla Walla, a city of roughly 33,000.
discretion and notice before you issue the decision. It doesn’t even require any notice after the decision.”
Since Klickitat County has never enacted its own version of the Management Plan into its ordinances, residents who live in the Scenic Area portion of the county get approvals directly from the Gorge Commission office in White Salmon.
Litwak said Washington residents won’t need to prepare a lengthy application to put an RV on their property, but there will be some minimal paperwork.
“If a landowner comes into the office and says, I’d like to use an RV on my property, we would say, ‘That’s fine,’” he said.
“That’s all the information we need because we’ll know where their property is already. We’re going to issue them two documents—a letter and a site plan.
“The letter will say this is approved. It will include all the property information and all the terms under which the temporary use would be permitted. Things like you need to use the existing access onto the property to place your temporary use. It can’t require any grading, you have to stay out of buffer zones, those kinds of standards.
We’re going to ask the landowner to give us a signature as an acknowledgment that they understand all the conditions of the temporary
use, which would include taking it off when they no longer need it.”
The site plan will be prepared by the Commission staff and will show on what parts of the parcel they can place a storage shed and an RV.
In the two previous Management Plan changes over the 40-year history of the Scenic Area, residents had to wait for the Secretary’s approval until their county enacted matching changes in their own Scenic Area ordinances. This one was approved with the understanding that the changes would be implemented in all the counties immediately with local matching ordinances to follow.
Joseph Fred Holly
Fred passed away at the age of 94 years old on February 4, 2026. He was born to Charles E. Holly and Mary Alderman Holly on July 15, 1931.
Fred was very active in rodeo his whole life and continued participating as long as his body would allow. He was very proud of the many buckles and saddles that he won over the many years. He was also proud of his work with the County and especially proud of the work with the
County Landfill, which he was instrumental in getting started from the beginning to completion. Dad retired from the landfill as the site supervisor.
Fred is survived by his wife, Marian to whom he was married for 71 years. He is also survived by five daughters, Debra (Emmett) Miller, Lisa
(Milt) Patterson, Lori Holly, Renea (Bill) Campbell and Sharra (Tom) White; 11 grandchildren; and 18 Great grandchildren . He was preceded in death by his par-ents, Charles E. and Mary Holly, and brothers Edward and Daniel Holly. At his request, there will be no service.
O BITUA RIES
G oldendale ’ s a ttic
This week’s Goldendale’s Attic Mystery Picture
Let’s see, who in the world could these people be? Despite this picture being more than 30 years old, one of them doesn’t
look much different than he does today, if we’re right about who it is. But you tell us. All we know is this picture ran in The Sentinel
sometime, lost in the annals of yesteryear. If you know anything about it, please send us an email (info@goldendalesentinel.com), or
give us a call (509-773-3777), or drop in at the office—and remember, you’re welcome to come in and take a look at the original photograph.
L ooking Back
February 29, 1908 – 118 Years Ago
The North Bank Railroad connected the rails near Carson on Feb. 21, and the last spike uniting Vancouver and Pasco was driven. This completed the laying of rails for 221 miles down the Columbia River. Important as the occasion was, there were no ceremonies. Trains carrying passengers and freight will not run over the road until March 15, when North Bank officials have notified the Interstate Commerce Commission and postal authorities that the road will be ready for operation.
March 3, 1966 – 60 Years Ago
Mutton Heads 4-H Club by Margaret Brokaw: We met at the courthouse with sack lunches Saturday. We then proceeded to Don Holwegner Ranch on the Satus Pass Highway. We first saw the FFA boy’s projects and then saw the ewes with single lambs. We were able to see three lambs being born. The Holwegners have had good luck and have no bummers because they have graphed all the bummer lambs onto to ewes that didn’t have lambs that lived. We saw the pens where the lambs and ewes are taken right after they are born. The feeding operation is still done by horse and wagon, since there is so little farm machinery. They have about 1,900 ewes and 30 rams. The ewes are all Hampshire Columbia crossbreds. They buy new rams every year.
March 4, 1976 – 50 Years Ago
Richard Lefever, vocational agriculture teacher at Auburn High School, had the very pleasant experience of appearing on KING television of Seattle with 5 of the chapter’s FFA officers. It was an interview type of program explaining the FFA program in observance of National FFA week.
March 3, 1976 – 50 Years
Sharp-eyed readers of The Sentinel this week are likely to find their paper full of irritating errors in spelling, punctuation, and so forth. We must confess that the errors are not entirely caused by human failing this week. Our electronic typesetting equipment seems to have decided to overhaul the English language by substituting $ for vowels, the letter “i” for spaces, and numerous other things as well.
February 27, 1986 – 40 Years Ago
Devotees claim that a few sessions at an “electric beach” helps get them ready for big time vacation sun, clears their complexion or even chases away the winter blahs. Whatever the benefits, one more electric tanning bed has been installed in Goldendale, bringing the total to two. Nam Sun Whitner at the Beauty Nook on Main Street has offered an “Ever-tan” tanning bed to her customers since 1984. The newest installation, a Wolf Systems Unit, is new at the Hair Affair. Peggy Davenport at the Hair Affair explained the tanning unit’s local appeal. It’s a booming thing in the big cities, little old Goldendale, and it takes a little while to catch on. But people are asking about it.
— Richard Lefever Klickitat County Historical Society
PIONEERS’ REUNION IS WELL ATTENDED
June 15, 1922
The first annual meeting of the Central Klickitat County Pioneers’ Association held at the city park last Saturday proved to be an interesting gathering. A representative attendance was present from different parts of the valley, and there were many present who formerly lived in Klickitat and who came from some distance to renew acquaintances and contemplate the memories of early days spent in the valley. The way is now paved for a bigger and better reunion next year. The program rendered in the city park, commencing at 10:30, was not elaborate, but was well selected and entirely fitting for the occasion. Music was furnished by the I. O. O. F. band, and selections of vocal music were rendered also. The speech of the day, given by J. T. Rorick of The Dalles, occupied the main part of the program. The committee, in choosing him to make the address, did well, for he is a good speaker, is a pioneer himself, and well acquainted with the history of the county, and with the pioneers of the valley.
The recitations rendered by Violet Hornibrook and Elnora McKillip, as well as the vocal music furnished by the male quartet, and the vocal solos by Mrs. Chas. Hill were appropriate and enjoyed by the audience.
It is interesting to note the pioneers who were present and enrolled, who were pioneers for 50 years or more. There are more who could qualify, no doubt, who were not present. The following old-timers enrolled: Mrs. J. P. Graham, R. W. Fenton, Frank Fenton, Mrs. M. E. Wing, Mrs. S. Locy, Mrs. S. A. Bunnell, Wm. Morehead, Mrs. Clara Pike, Chas. Newell, Mrs. Thomas Burgen, Mrs. Jos. Stultz, Mrs. J. H. Hill, Mrs.
Answer to last week’s Mystery Picture
Robert Ferguson, Mrs. Mary Masters, Francis Miller and W. C. Burgen.
One interesting feature of the program was the paper prepared and read by Mrs. M. M. Warner, the historian of the association. Interesting historical facts were set forth.
The following is the history:
“Although the territory now known as Klickitat county seems to have been equal in the favorableness of its situation to the Oregon country across the Columbia river, no permanent settlers came into it for a number of years.
“In 1856 the government commenced the construction of a military road across the Simcoe range to Fort Simcoe on the Yakima reservation, and during the summer of that year a small fortification was erected on Spring Creek seven miles northwest of Goldendale, and garrisoned with a troop of United States cavalry. This little fort, know as the Blockhouse, was a log structure surrounded by an eight foot stockade, which was built on what is now known as the Frank Saxton place, but the building has been moved to the city park in recent years.
“Most of the early settlers came from the Willamette valley, to which they had come across the plains at an earlier date. Any settlement in the county previous to 1859 is scarcely worthy of note.
“Some time previous to the Indian war, probably as early as 1852, Erastus S. Joslyn, just out from Massachusetts, crossed the Columbia river at a point opposite the mouth of Hood river, and settled on a place later known as the Judge Byrkett farm. This place is thought to be the oldest ranch in the county, with the possible exception of the Curtiss farm at Grand
Dalles.
“Egbert French, who kept a store above Goldendale, now known as the J. H. Coffield farm, had a place at the mouth of the Klickitat, and J. H. Alexander, in after years, lived above Goldendale. Both French and Alexander had squaw wives.
“F. Mortimer Thorp and Chas. Splawn settled in this county in 1858. In the spring of 1859, Amos Stark came to the valley and built a log house. Mr. Stark is now living on the Snipes place west of Goldendale. During that year, Willis Jenkins and family moved to the county, settling near Blockhouse. The same year, Lewis S. Parrott and his son-in-law, J. J. Golden, came. The Tartar family also came with them from the Willamette valley. Mr. Golden preceded the party into the valley, arriving with a large herd of cattle. July 9, 1859, they settled on the swale. Mr. Golden afterward moved to Columbus, where he took the contract to deliver one thousand cords of wood to the boat landing, the chief industry of the county.
“A little later John W. Burgen and his brother Thomas came. In 1860, John Burgen settled on the Columbus road. Here the following year, Newton, brother of W C. Burgen, was born, being the first white child born in Klickitat county. About fifteen families passed the winter 1859-60 in the county.
“The territorial government insisted that the settlers must organize and pay taxes. As early as December, 1859, it passed an act setting off Klickitat as a separate county and naming officers for the new organization, and by this act, Klickitat was spelled with a “C” until 1869.
“The settlers gave little thought to county affairs.
The government at Olympia could appoint county officers, but could not compel them to qualify, which they refused to do.
“The county seat was temporarily located on the land claim of Alfred Allen at Rockland, and the following were the first officers appointed: Alfred Allen, Robert Tartar and Jacob Halstead were appointed commissioners: Willis Jenkins, probate judge; James Clark, sheriff; James Whitney, auditor; Edwin Grant, assessor; Wm. Murphy treasurer; and John Nelson, justice of the peace.
“The first county election was held in 1860, the county being divided in three precincts, Rockland, Goldendale and Blockhouse; but these officers did not qualify.
“The summer of 1861 was unusual. Heavy frosts occurred in some parts of the valley every month in the year. The winter of 1861 and 1862 was very severe. Cold weather came early. Snow fell on the hills the 10th of October. The first of January came a snow and sleet, followed by lightning
and heavy thunder. This is the only time on record, when heavy thunder accompanied a winter storm in this locality. This was a very cold winter, the thermometer ranging from 14 to 30 degrees below zero for six weeks. Fully threefourths of the stock in the county perished.
“The first saw mill was erected by a company in 1860.
“Up to 1872, there was not a town in all the county. J. L. Henderson had laid out a town and built a store where the military road crossed the Little Klickitat, but the town never materialized. September 5, 1871, J. J. Golden bought from L. J. Kimberland the site of the present town of Goldendale and the following year he platted a townsite and gave it the name of Goldendale. That year Thomas Johnson built a house in the new town, the front of which he used as a store. There was then no other store in the county, although several had been opened previous to this time.
As the location of the county seat at Rockland was only temporary, it was decided by the commissioners on May 8, 1872, that the question of permanently locating the county seat be submitted to the voters of the county at the next regular election to be held November 8th, 1872. From the first, Goldendale being in the agricultural section of the county, was considered to represent the farming interests of the district, and was strongly opposed by the stockmen. The cattlemen were sufficiently strong to defeat it, although by a narrow margin. The vote stood 77 for Goldendale and 78 for Rockland.
“A start had been made in wheat raising. People had also given some attention to fruit culture, though up to this time, there were but few, if any bearing orchards. The first orchard of any importance was planted in 1870, and fruit raising soon became an important industry in the new county.
“In 1878 Messrs. Chapman, Marble and Nelson built at Goldendale, what was known as the Klickitat Flour Mill. Almost simultaneously Thomas Johnson built the Goldendale Mills, which recently burned.
“At the general election in November, 1878, about fivesixths of the votes were cast for Goldendale as the county seat. This is from personal knowledge, as the writer moved to Klickitat county in October, 1878, my father taking a homestead in what is known as the Harland country. In February, the following year, the commissioners ordered the sheriff to move the county property to the site chosen for the county seat by the ballots of the people, where the county offices and records have ever since remained.
“Several of the old-timers have passed away during the last year. Among them was Mrs. J. J. Golden.”
This was too easy, apparently, especially since it was a relatively recent picture compared to most we run. This is the wedding picture of Gordon and Tina Walsh.
OpiniOn
The
senior scams and how to avoid them
Dear Savvy Senior,
My adult kids keep warning me about scams, but it’s hard to know which calls and messages are dangerous. What scams are most commonly aimed at seniors right now?
--Almost 80
Dear Almost,
Your kids’ concerns are well founded. Financial fraud is a massive and growing problem for older Americans. In fact, financial fraud cost older adults an estimated $81.5 billion in 2024, according to the Federal Trade Commission—a staggering figure that reflects both reported losses and the many scams that go unreported.
While many scams today target people of all ages, older adults are often singled out or disproportionately affected. From urgent phone calls and alarming emails to online romance schemes and fake investment opportunities, criminals use every trick in the book to pressure seniors into handing over money or personal information.
Senior, Jim Miller
Knowing the most common scams is the first line of defense. Here’s a list of scams seniors should watch for:
Imposter and government scams: Fraudsters pretend to be from Social Security, Medicare, the IRS, the police, banks, or utility companies. They claim there’s a problem requiring immediate payment or personal information and may threaten arrest or loss of benefits.
Tech support scams: Calls, emails, or pop-ups warn your computer has a virus. The scammer offers to “fix” it but instead steals money, personal data, or access to your device.
Grandparent or family emergency scams: Callers pose as a relative—often a grandchild—in distress and urgently request money. Some can even mimic a loved one’s voice.
Investment and cryptocurrency scams: Offers for “too good to be true” investments, including crypto or high-yield retirement schemes, often promise big returns but lead to large financial losses.
Romance scams: Scammers build fake online relationships on social media, dating sites and other interactive platforms, then invent emergencies or investment opportunities to get money. Seniors have lost millions to these schemes.
Medicare scams: Calls or texts claim to be from Medicare, asking you to verify your number, offering special plans, or warning of fraud. Medicare will not contact you this way.
Sweepstakes and lottery scams: You’re told you’ve won a prize but must pay fees or taxes first. Real lotteries never require payment.
Charity scams: Scammers call or email, asking for donations to fake charities, often after disasters. Always verify before giving.
Phishing and online fraud: Emails, texts, and pop-ups that look like they’re from banks, Amazon, or
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 (News, editorial, Letters)
Obits@goldendalesentinel.com (Obituaries)
Classifieds @goldendalesentinel.com (Classified ads and inquiries)
Ads @goldendalesentinel.com
(Display advertising information and inquiries)
Legals @goldendalesentinel.com (Legal and public notices)
Payables@goldendalesentinel.com
Receivables@goldendalesentinel.com
Events @goldendalesentinel.com (Events and activities)
Editorial: Lou Marzeles, Editor & Publisher
Business and office staff:
Owned by Tartan Publications, Inc.
Leslie Geatches, President, Financial management, Special Section production, Ad Design Naomi James, Bookkeeping
PayPal try to steal passwords, account numbers, or trick you into clicking harmful links. Employment scams: Seniors seeking part-time work or ways to supplement their retirement should watch out for fake job offers on LinkedIn, indeed, and other online job sites. Scammers may promise easy income or work-from-home opportunities but ask for upfront fees, personal information, or involve illegal tasks like package reshipping. Always verify employers and never pay to apply.
How to protect yourself
Awareness and caution are your best defense. Slow down when a call, email, or text pressures you to act immediately. Scammers want you to react quickly. Hang up, don’t click links, and verify requests by calling the organization directly or checking with a trusted family member.
Never send money using gift cards, wire transfers, or cryptocurrency. Legitimate organizations never ask this way. Stay updated with AARP’s Fraud Watch Network (aarp.org/fraudwatchnetwork) or the Federal Trade Commission (consumer.ftc.gov).
Protect your accounts by setting up bank alerts, checking credit reports, and using strong, unique passwords. Some seniors find it helpful to have a trusted family member or financial ally review unusual activity. Report suspicious calls, messages, or offers at reportfraud.ftc.gov.
Being informed, cautious, and deliberate can greatly reduce your risk of fraud – giving you and your family peace of mind.
Send your questions or comments to questions@savvysenior.org, or to Savvy Senior, P.O. Box 5443, Norman, OK 73070.
Burn-out has got to go
The Festival of Wheels gave it another try this year. It seems the attendance has dwindled to much lower levels than when the event was new, 10 years ago. There are a lot of competing car shows this time of year, so it doesn’t surprise me . This year Goldendale Motorsports Association and ABATE brought back the burn-out, which was tried several times in the past with questionable benefits to the town. This year someone had the brilliant idea to use the old skateboard park as a place to stage the return of the burnout. It was held on the concrete slab, a tempting medium for anyone inclined to bum rubber. Rednecks of many degrees, punk kids or maybe the little old lady from Pasadena. I personally was left with a bad taste in my mouth and lungs. Even though I made it a point to stay away from the burn-out and was at my home where I thought I would escape the noise and smoke, when the toxic cloud rose from the park and drifted over the Little Klickitat River Park (the swimming pool) on to the kids and families at the pool and on to me while I was sitting on my property. We were contaminated by the toxins in the smoke, and my eyes and throat were imitated, and my lungs filled with carbon monoxide and other cancer causing toxic compounds
for three hours.
I think the city of Goldendale needs to rethink supporting burnouts in our park. Next year don’t issue a permit to any group that wants to burn-out. There are places in the county where it could be held, just not in the city please. I hate toxic smoke, and you should too.
On Sept 4 I will be asking the mayor and his administration to make an ordinance forbidding anyone from reckless unsafe burnouts in any ones neighborhood or any street in the Goldendale city limits. I would appreciate some support from like-minded citizens at the council meeting. Let them know how you feel.
Ken McKune Goldendale
C
I recently received an updated “Terms for Business and Deposit Account Agreement” from Columbia Bank. I am not in the habit of reading the fine print but for some reason this time I did. I came across an “added” line that I found very concerning. Again, this line is both for personal and business accounts. It reads: “We may refuse to open and account and may close your account at any time for any reason or for no reason at all.”
“For No Reason At All” I particularly found offensive.
I contacted the bank for an explanation. The answer was essentially that “we wouldn’t do that.” Then why is it in your documents, I asked. The answer was to send me up the chain of command. The second person gave the same answer as the first and then was to have me contacted by some-one higher up. That person has not contacted me after more than a week so I am following through on what I told the bank contacts I was going to do—write a letter to the editor to be sure local folks are aware of how Columbia Bank is choosing to deal with its account holders. My concern is that a comment as broad as this opens the door for abuse. I have had no difficulties with our local branch and am sorry that the headquarters has decided to take such a hard line. It ap-pears I will need to look for a bank that does not behave in this manner.
Ken Margraf Goldendale
Guidelines for Letters
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.)
Savvy
H ometown
She’s accepted to eight colleges What’s in the Sky
Here’s some Glenwood Grange news that was also submitted to the Grange News in Olympia, but I’d like to share it here.
Glenwood Grange No. 94 met on Sunday, February 22, welcoming special guests from the Washington State Grange. In attendance were Washington State Officer Tom Cullen, State Steward, and Lucille Bevis, former Washington State Deputy Director of Klickitat County.
The meeting featured an informative presentation on the constitution and bylaws of both the Washington State Grange and the National Grange.
Glenwood Grange President Linda Williams also shared a brief history of the local Grange, originally written in 1988 by Juanita Rolph. The historical account was both humorous and insightful, offering members a meaningful look at the organization’s past.
A special highlight of the meeting was the presentation of a 50-year membership certificate to Larry Williams. The certificate was awarded by State Steward Tom Cullen in recognition of Larry’s long-standing dedication and service to the Grange. Following the meeting, members and guests enjoyed food and fellowship together.
I am very pleased to
share some news about our Glenwood High School Senior Giana Jackson. Giana has been outstanding in her academics and leadership through all her years at GHS. She currently serves as Associated Student Body president, and we always see her volunteering wherever needed at school functions. At this time of year when college acceptance notices are being received by the students, it’s always great to be able to report the colleges that want our awesome students.
This year, Giana is going to have a tough choice, as she has been accepted to eight different universities. Those great schools who want our Giana are Kentucky, Oregon, Eastern Oregon, Washington State, Gonzaga, Oregon State, Louisville, and Western Washington. Some of those acceptances also came with scholarship offers. She has a lot to think about, for sure, but we are very proud of our Glenwood senior and know she will continue to soar at whatever university she selects, just as she has done here at GHS.
Our Glenwood/ Klickitat (Klickwood) boys team competed against Crosspoint Christian in the first round of the OSAA State Tournament on Tuesday, February 24, in
Klamath Falls. The game didn’t end as we all hoped, so Klickwood’s basketball season is over. In the hearts of many of us, though, they’re still winners and we are very proud of them. I do need to correct an error from last week. Owen Spino was selected for Big Sky All League Second Team at the end of the District tournament recently.
A Glenwood girl Emma Patterson and her Trout Lake Mustangs team experienced that same disappointment the following evening against Powers. but what an amazing season they had, too. Emma was named to Big Sky All League First Team for the outstanding playing she displayed all season. I know this last year for her at Trout Lake doesn’t mean her basketball career is over. We look forward to hearing of her future accomplishments in both college and basketball.
Next for our high school students, it’s on to track season. Practice for the Klickwood team began March 2 under the leadership of coaches Aaron Oldenberg and Abbie Eldred. They have a busy season ahead with some days of long travel, but they are dedicated to this sport. Have a great track season, Eagles.
Jim White For the Sentinel
Welcome to March!
Our third month of the year brings us a total Lunar Eclipse, the vernal equinox, and a nice pairing of the Moon and Jupiter. Hopefully the clouds will part at the right time for viewing some of these events.
Spring begins on March 20 this year. On that date, day length and night will be about equal. Earth’s axis of rotation will be parallel to the Sun, and the Sun will be directly overhead on the equator. Autumn will begin for the southern hemisphere, where the date is known as the autumnal equinox.
The lunar eclipse occurred in the early morning hours of March 3. The eclipse technically started at about 12:45 a.m., but totality, when the Moon is fully within Earth’s shadow, did not begin until about 3 a.m. It peaked at about 3:30 a.m. and ended at about 4 a.m.
I hope you got up early to see it. The Moon was high in the southwest, in the constellation Leo. The Goldendale Observatory was open for the event, from 1 a.m. to 6 a.m. Hopefully Adminstrator Troy Carpenter was able to get some good shots of this special event.
Two planets are prominent in March skies. Bright Venus will be visible, low in the west, after sunset. On March 7,
Saturn will be located just to the left of Venus. Both are bright enough that they should be easily visible, but a pair of binoculars may help to get a better view. Saturn will soon disappear behind the Sun, and will return to the evening sky in the fall.
Jupiter rides high in the southwestern sky, in the constellation Gemini. The gas giant will be brighter than anything in the evening sky, except the Moon and Venus. On March 25 the first quarter Moon will be just to the right of Jupiter, which should make for a nice sight. New Moon will be on March 18.
This month you must indulge me as I reminisce a bit. This is the 250th “What’s in the Sky” column I have written, so a bit of a milestone. It all started in May of 2006, when I approached the White Salmon Enterprise with the idea of a monthly column about the night sky. Elaine and Sverre Bakke were all for it, and kudos to them both for their
support. After a few years The Dalles Chronicle and Goldendale Sentinel picked it up, and it continued when the Gorge Papers merged into the current Columbia Gorge News The late Mark Gibson was very supportive, as have been Trisha Walker with the Gorge News and Lou Marzeles with The Sentinel. It has been a totally volunteer effort and certainly has been rewarding. One of the best compliments I recall was one evening in Glenwood, years ago. I had some telescopes out for community members. One young man was looking up at the stars, and he reached into his pocket and pulled out a piece of paper. It was my latest column, which he had cut out from the paper. He was not aware that I was the one who wrote it. Things like that make it all worthwhile. On to the next 250!
Goldendale CTE students showcase skills
maggie gutierrez ghS FFa PreSident
Goldendale High School celebrated CTE (Career and Technical Education) Month with its annual community open house on February 26. A total of 167 people showed up to see what students have been working on in their CTE classes. Visitors walked through more than 65 stations where students showed off projects from woodshop, culinary arts, psychology, agriscience, metal shop, and business.
Many of the students running stations are involved in CTSOs like FFA, FBLA, SkillsUSA, and FCCLA. They were able to talk about the realworld skills they’re learning and how their classes connect to
future careers. The open house gave families, local businesses, and community members a chance to see what’s
happening in Goldendale’s CTE programs and how students are learning through hands-on projects every day.
Contributed
OPEN HOUSE: Goldendale High students observed Career and Technical Education Month at an open house last month.
O BITUA RIES
Ben Jay Parrish, 79, was born September 6, 1946, and passed away February 16, 2026, leaving a legacy of faith, love, hard work, service, and unforgettable memories.
Ben was born in Walla Walla, Washington, to Carlton Parrish and Marie Hulser. He moved to High Prairie during the summer between seventh and eighth grade. Farm life shaped him in every way. By age 10, he was driving tractor, milking cows, feeding livestock, cutting hay, and running equipment— learning early that responsibility wasn’t optional but a way of life.
In 1964, at the end of his senior year, Ben began dating his one true love, Barbara (Barb) Keith. He worked all summer at Montgomery Ranch outside Pendleton, Oregon, to buy her
Nancy May Kreider Barron died on February 8, 2026, in Portland, Oregon. She is survived by Sara Wu of Goldendale, her long-term significant other; her daughter Mikail Barron of Felton, California; and her brother John Kreider of Gouveneur, New York. Her sons Terry and Greg Barron preceded her in death. She was born on September 6, 1939, on a farm with horses and border collies near Springfield, Missouri, to Rex Phillip Kreider and Helen Theresa Buskett Kreider. After graduating with a degree in psychology from Drury College, Nancy was awarded a Fulbright Scholarship to study in Tübingen, Germany. She returned to the United States and earned a PhD from the University of Missouri. Nancy
a ring. They married June 5, 1965—60 years, 9 months, and 11 days together. Their daughter, Michelle, was born May 4, 1969, followed by their son, Christopher, April 16, 1971. Ben loved the outdoors. Deer and elk hunting were lifelong passions, and many favorite memories were made in the field with his dad, Carl, friends, and his children.
Ben’s humor was legendary and his humor followed him into the hunting field. On one trip, Ben blew a coyote call loudly and continuously, unaware coyotes were circling behind him. His son and a dear friend stayed silent as the tension built. When Ben
Nancy Barron
worked at the Missouri State Hospital until she moved to Portland in 1981 to be near big trees. Nancy’s forte was social psychology working for the Multnomah County Mental Health Department. She also had a part-time private practice and taught a class at Portland State University on Self-Image and Body Size. As an advocate for large women, she started a health group for them, Ample Opportunity, whose motto was, “A good life is the best revenge”. This group fed her love of the outdoors through hiking, canoeing, and rafting. She gave classes in belly dancing, which she had learned when recovering from back surgery. Nancy was an avid knitter as well as candle maker. Many of her family friends have
Ben Jay Parrish
realized what was happening, he nearly swallowed the call. He didn’t just tell jokes—he created moments that left everyone laughing long after.
If you visited Ben and Barb Parrish, you likely played cards. Seven, Hand and Foot, Pond Scum, Dominoes, and Rummy were staples, and laughter was guaranteed.
Ben was a hard worker and preferred the trades over college. After working for SP&S Railroad, he began driving concrete trucks at 21. Through grit and determination, he founded Parrish Concrete Pumping, running it for 19 years before retiring in 2006.
benefited from her endeavors. She very much enjoyed eating and cooking Indian food. She always enjoyed traveling and took up scuba diving in warm seas around the world. In 2003 she retired and moved into the woods in Goldendale to be with Sara. There, Nancy was very involved with the Friends of the Goldendale Library, acting as President for six years. She edited the Friends books Blue Light to Pucker Huddle and The Stories Told by the Early Pioneers of Klickitat Valley. Since age two, Nancy thought she would be a writer. As a member of a writers’ group, she produced many stories and haikus. She also initiated a song circle and started writing her own songs. Her lovely smile and sharp mind touched all who knew her. She will continue to be an inspiration to many lives. If you wish to honor Nancy, please make a donation to your favorite charity.
Debra Lynne Packer
Debra Lynne Packer, 67, of Goldendale, passed away peacefully at her home on Wednesday, December 24, 2025, surrounded by her loving family. Debra was born on December 19, 1958, in Montgomery, Alabama, to Jan and Bill Rishling. As the daughter of a military father, Debra moved frequently throughout her childhood, living in Japan and California before her family eventually settled at Hauser Lake, Idaho, where she grew up. During her high school years, she babysat for many families in the Hauser Lake community, a reflection of her nurturing spirit from an early age.
Debra graduated as a
legal secretary from Lewis and Clark Community College in 1979 and went on to work briefly in that role. She married her first husband, Jesse Bly Jr., who tragically passed away just two years into their marriage. Though their time together was brief, Debra remained close to his family, maintaining a loving and lasting relationship with them throughout her life. Debra later married her second husband, Michael Packer, and together they shared three wonderful children. As a devoted and attentive mother, Debra poured her heart into raising her family. She was deeply involved in her children’s lives—attending school events, supporting
fundraisers, volunteering her time, and serving as a dedicated member of the PTA. Her home was always open, and she was lovingly known as the “Mom” of the neighborhood, caring for every child who crossed her doorstep as if they were her own. She is survived by her siblings, Denise Baysinger and Dana Rishling; her three children, Jeremy Packer (Kristi), Jessica Packer (Ben), and Joshua Packer; and her beloved grandchildren, Riley Mead (13), Avery Packer (11), Lily Mead (8), Kaleb Packer (5), and Skyler Packer (3). She is also survived by many nieces, nephews, and extended family members, all of whom she loved very much.
Debra’s kindness, devotion to family, and generous heart will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing her.
He cherished being a grandfather and loved teaching target practice and riding the ATV. When asked about his greatest accomplishment, he said, “My wife of 60+ years, two wonderful children, six grandchildren, and great grandchildren.”
Ben is survived by his beloved wife, Barb; daughter Michelle Gallagher (Troy); son Christopher Parrish (Karla); grandchildren Seth Gallagher (Joanna), Megan Summerlin (Rob), Keith Gallagher (Laura), Lynnea Bussey (Andy), and Coleman and Theron Parrish; five, almost six, great grandchildren. He is also survived by siblings Gwen Smith and Greg Caudle and was preceded in death by siblings Tom, Henry, and John Parrish, Carla White, and Sherrie Barringer.
Ben will be remembered as a man of faith, humor, service, and unwavering devotion to his family.
Ben will be deeply missed. But his Lord is saying, “Well done, my good and faithful servant.”
There was a Celebration of Life for Ben on Saturday, February 26, 2026, at the High Prairie Community Center in Lyle.
E xtra
FFA visits the Capitol
GaGe Halm GMS FFA Reporter
On Friday, February 20, 15
Goldendale FFA members spent the day at the Washington State Capitol, gaining firsthand experience with how state government works.
The group was accompanied by their FFA advisor, Randi Krieg, CTE Para-Professional EJ Ontiveros, and parent Angie Moore, who supported students throughout the visit.
The day began with a walk across the Capitol campus alongside lobbyist Jesse Taylor, who explained the role lobbyists play in helping citi-
FLAG from page A1
tention is to ensure that this landmark remains first class in appearance and condition for generations to come without placing financial burden on the county or its taxpayers.”
Proponents are hoping to have the project completed in time for the 250th anniversary of the United States on the Fourth of July.
In the morning workshop session, Public Works reported that construction of the college training facility airport hangar has been delayed by the federal government shutdown. Work will not begin until April and construction won’t be completed until November.
“We notified the school,” said County Engineer Seth Scarola. “They were disappointed but understood.”
And County Administrator Robb Van Cleave reported
STATE from page A1
starting the year. She finished with a 6th place medal at 125 lbs; however her wrestling career may not be over. She has been offered a four-year college athletic scholarship to continue her dreams.
Brock Armstrong, a senior who finished 2nd place in state in 2024 and 2025, never had the opportunity to finish on the top step of the podium. He ended his career at districts when his health unexpectedly forced him out of competition. Brock earned over 100 wins in his career for Goldendale and became the best teammate he could by cheering and encouraging his fellow athletes on as a spectator.
Jacob Gray, 138 lb sophomore, entered the tournament with aspirations of exceeding what his brother Mathew was able to accomplish at the Tacoma Dome as a sophomore, with a 5th place finish. First day of the tournament created an incredibly tough uphill battle for Jacob,
WOLVES from page A1
against quality competition.
Saturday was another loser out game, this time against Warden.
The Wolves faced a tough challenge on the road against Warden, falling just short in a thrilling 53-50 contest that saw multiple lead changes and clutch performances throughout. Despite the narrow defeat, the Wolves showed tremendous heart and resilience, battling back from significant deficits multiple times to keep their strong 20-5 record intact. The game featured exceptional individual efforts and team chemistry that had fans on the edge of their seats until the final buzzer.
Warden jumped out to an early advantage and built a commanding 33-22 halftime
zens share their ideas with lawmakers. Students then met with Rep. David Steube and Sen. Paul Harris, where they discussed their leadership and service projects and asked questions about the legislative process. For many members, it was their first time speaking directly with elected officials, offering a meaningful look at how government decisions are made.
The group also toured the Legislative Building and the Temple of Justice, taking in the history and architecture of both spaces. GMS FFA Vice President Aubrey Rhoades shared her impres-
that Aramark has agreed to dissolve its contract to provide food for inmates at the county.
“Washington Department of Corrections will conduct a site visit on March 3 to discuss them providing food to our facility at a much reduced cost,” he said and added praise for Jail Administrator Bill Frantz for his continued work on the subject.
And Public Health Director Erinn Quinn reported her department continues to monitor measles cases. “There’ve been 26 cases in the state,” she said. “We’ve had four suspect cases. None of them were positive. However, we did a very quick and rudimentary cost analysis. It costs about $1,200 for one suspect case for the work that we’re required to do. A true case, I would expect very conservatively, would either
finishing 1-1. This meant that if Jacob lost any of his next three matches, he would exit the tournament without a medal. One match at a time, Gray went to work, finishing each of his next three matches with his opponents shoulders pinned against the mat. He made his way to the 3rd place match with two exciting wins by points, 3-0 and 6-2. Jacob ran out of magic in his 6th match of the final day and finished in 4th place.
Logan Smith, 175 lb junior, started his season in January, nearly two months late after a football injury brought into question if he would be able to compete. Logan started out slowly, working and trusting his training. Working his technique and trusting his process, Smith was on the podium for the first time in his state career as 5th place. Goldendale’s only other medalist was Ruby “Mozzy” Visser, 140 lb freshman. Visser put on a very impres-
lead, including a dominant stretch where they scored seven straight points to extend their margin. However, the Wolves refused to fold, with Brody Hatfield leading a spirited third-quarter comeback effort. Brody was spectacular throughout the night, finishing with 16 points on an efficient 7-11 shooting performance, including a perfect free throw and key baskets when his team needed them most. His seven points in the third quarter helped cut the deficit to just five points heading into the final frame.
The fourth quarter delivered pure drama as both teams traded haymakers down the stretch. Grant Hatfield stepped up in clutch time, matching Brody’s
sion of the visit, saying, “The Capitol buildings were very pretty, and I learned so much about our government.”
Later in the day, students attended a work session where they listened to a report from the Environmental Justice Council. Hearing real discussions about statewide issues helped connect what they learn in class to real-world decision-making.
“Overall, the visit gave us a meaningful look at leadership and the importance of understanding how government functions,” said Shelby Zakit, GHS Greenhand vice president.
triple or quadruple that price to my department and the requirements that we have to do by the state. So understanding that when we talk about measles and the burden on public health—that’s something that could very quickly impact my budget this year.”
Under the consent agenda, commissioners approved:
• An amendment to the Management Agreement for the Columbia Gorge Regional Airport
• A change order request for Cayenta Enterprise Resource Planning
• Supplemental Agreement #2 with Bell Design Company for on-call surveying services
• A memorandum of Agreement with Washington State University Extension for Extension-related programs and available Klicki-
sive showing at her debut state tournament. With a 4-2 record in the tournament, she finished on the podium in 4th place.
Wrestlers who did not medal but deserve honorable mention are: Caden Sullivan, senior 165lb, Aaron Lucatero, junior 157lb, Kaden Williams, freshman 132lb, and Tally Larcome, sophomore 135lb. These wrestlers represented their community with grace and made their coaches and parents proud.
Saturday evening brought the championship matches. Wrestlers lined up next to their opponents and ceremoniously brought out to the entire stadium with a light show and Metallica’s Enter Sandman blaring over the speakers. Olivia and Rydell prepared themselves for the championship with all eyes on them. They faced familiar foes they had wrestled twice the previous two weeks. For Olivia it was a freshman from Royal City, Sophia Garza. For
16-point output with a wellrounded performance that included 6-13 field goals and an impressive 3-6 from threepoint range. His deep threepointer tied the game 42-42, and he later gave the Wolves a 47-45 lead with another crucial basket. The lead changed hands multiple times in the final minutes, with Grant’s final two-pointer putting the Wolves ahead 50-49 before Warden managed to score the game’s final four points. While the final result wasn’t what the Wolves hoped for, this game showcased their character and fighting spirit. Alias Butterfly contributed 10 points despite shooting struggles, including a clutch three-pointer that tied the game 45-45 in the fourth quarter. Seth Wilder
tat County funds for 2026
• Authorization to advertise for a van/bus Driver in Senior Services
• Notice to contractors to advertise for the 2026 Annual Striping Program, RN 642-26
• Contracts and Contract Bonds – Bundle Preventive Maintenance, Deck and Expansion Joint Repair CRP 376, BHOS-2020(052) and CRP 377, BHS-Z920(004) Contract No. TA-7808 & TA-7806
• An addendum to the behavioral health contract— Cramer
• A Health Department request for hosting approval the 2026 Fund 125 Project List
Rydell it was senior Andrew Flores from Granger. They both lost in the championship. However, the Goldendale fans were proud of their achievements and knew their dreams were still awaiting achievement. They will both be upper classmen leaders next year for the wrestling program that has the promise of outdoing what they accomplished this year.
There is a creed Coach Williams has installed into his young athletes since the beginning of the Grappler Club and repeated at each practice: “I am thankful for the opportunity to wrestle. I am aggressive and relentless. I have no fear of losing or making mistakes. And I will never ever give up.”
Next year they will prove their creed true. Even though they may have come up short this year, they will never ever give up hope of getting crowned the best wrestler in the state.
and Andrew Wilder both made important contributions off the bench, with Seth adding 4 points and Andrew chipping in a key basket. The Wolves proved they can compete with anyone and will undoubtedly use this experience to fuel their continued success this season.
This season ended with Brody Hatfield and Seth Wilder being voted 1st team all league, Grant Hatfield voted 2nd team all league, and Alias Butterfly as honorable mention. The team was also honored with the Coach of the Year award to Chris Siebert.
What a ride! Can’t wait for next year.
FFA team places in Ag Sales and First Year Member contests
Congratulations to the Goldendale FFA Agricultural Sales team on earning 3rd place overall, including: Emma Gorrod, Bella Wright, Isaiah Dzikowski, and Eddy Aguilar. A special shoutout to Emma Gorrod, who finished as the 5th high individual, and Bella Wright, who placed 6th high individual.
The Goldendale High School FirstYear Member team—Zoe Taylor, Paige Scott, Kenzie King, and Ebenezer Ayalew—earned
BROOKS from page A1
term. Over time, the shift from open scar and muted browns to the deepening green of a young healthy forest will be unmistakable, Ricker explained. This spring, visitors will mostly see flagged seedlings and notices marking the project area. Larger trees will be planted along the eastern edge of the group camp, but most of the work will not be immediately noticeable since it is away from main trails. Park staff asked visitors to respect the area by staying out of newly planted sections and giving fragile roots a chance to take hold.
“As for ensuring this improves the habitat and ecosystem, by using species native to the area, nature will determine and define it for us,” he emphasized. “We just want to give it a boost in its recovery to what it once was and then protect it as
4th place out of 13 teams. Our GHS BBQ team— Isaac Garcia, Tristyn
Judges
and
all of whom generously donated their time.
best we can.”
For Ricker, forest rehabilitation is an act of faith. “My favorite part of forest rehabilitation is having faith in that it works. The foresters of the past probably didn’t see the fruition of all their replanting work,” he said. “I don’t expect to see the results of mine. But I can have faith that generations after me will be able to enjoy the efforts I make today.” Volunteers interested in helping with the replanting are encouraged to bring water, gloves, sturdy shoes or boots, and narrow planting shovels if they have them. Planting days are scheduled from 9 a.m. to noon and 1 to 4 p.m., March 31 through April 2. Volunteers will meet at the Brooks Group Camp on the east side of Highway 97. Those interested can RSVP by emailing Brooks.memorial@parks. wa.gov.
Tobin, and Logan Smith—cooked dinner for over 100 participants.
were Lori Anderson, Blake Lesko, Danae Dunlap, Rachel Fahlenkamp, Heather Gallagher, Will Bowdish, Nancy Kusky, Betty Richards, Lucille Bevis,
Angela Kruger,
Contributed
SEEING HOW IT WORKS: Goldendale FFA members were recently at the state Capitol. Contributed
WELL DONE: The Goldendale FFA Ag Sales team won 3rd overall place.
•
•
•
•
•
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
Armchair Traveler: Iceland
It’s time for another mini-vacation, and this month we’re exploring Iceland. Iceland is nicknamed the Land of Fire and Ice, because it contains both volcanoes and glaciers. Home to over 100 volcanoes, Iceland also contains the largest glacier in Europe. An island in the North Atlantic Ocean, its nearest neighbor is Scotland, 500 miles away, and it is roughly the size of Kentucky. Prior to human settlement, the only land mammal living in Iceland was the Arctic fox.
Two events in recent history have contributed to an upswing in tourism: a major volcanic eruption in 2010, followed in 2011 by the filming of the HBO series Game of Thrones in Iceland. Winter is coming. The library has travel books about Iceland from Rick Steves, Lonely Planet, and Fodor’s, among others. For more nonfiction about Iceland, try one of these:
• “Innsaei: Heal, Revive, and Reset with the Icelandic Art of Intuition” by Hrund Gunnsteinsdótti (2024)
• “Iceland’s Ring Road: Road Trips” by Lonely Planet (2022)
• “Looking for the Hidden Folk: How Iceland’s Elves Can Save the Earth” by Nancy Marie Brown (2022)
• “How Iceland Changed the World: The Big History of a Small Island” by Egill Bjarnason (2021)
• “The Museum of Whales You Will Never See” by A. Kendra Greene (2020)
• “The Secret Lives of Glaciers” by M. Jackson (2019)
• “The Nordic Baking Book” by Magnus Nilsson (2018)
• “Quick Icelandic Knits” by Gunn Birgirsdottir (2014)
• “Nordic Knitting Traditions” by Susan Anderson-Freed (2012)
• “Volcano: Iceland’s Inferno and Earth’s Most Active Volcanoes” by Ellen J. Prager (2010)
Beat the winter blues with a childhood classic
About Icelandic people
• “Woman, Captain, Rebel: The Extraordinary True Story of a Daring Icelandic Sea Captain” by Margaret Willson (2023)
• “The Far Traveler: Voyages of a Viking Woman” by Nancy Marie Brown (2008)
Icelandic author Halldór Laxness won a Nobel Prize for Literature in 1955 for “Independent People”. Another of Laxness’ books and books by other Icelandic authors are listed here:
• “Under the Glacier” by Halldór Laxness (2005)
• “The Quiet Mother” by Arnaldur Indriðason (2025)
• “The Shadow District” by Arnaldur Indriðason (2017)
• “Moonstone: The Boy Who Never Was” by Sjón (2016)
• “Miss Iceland” by Auður A. Ólafsdóttir (2020)
Icelandic mythology and sagas
• “Egil’s Saga” translated by Bernard Scudder (2004)
• “The Prose Edda” translated by Jesse L. Byock (2005)
Beth Wood is a senior collection development librarian for Fort Vancouver Regional Libraries. Email her at readingforfun@fvrl.org.
New at the Library
FICTION
“The Tavern at the End of History” by Morris Collins
“The Midnight Carousel” by Fiza Saeed McLynn
“When I Kill You” by B. A. Paris NONFICTION
“Bonded by Evolution: The New Science of Love and Connection” by Paul W. Eastwick
“Frog: And Other Essays” by Anne Fadiman
“Cocina Puerto Rico: Recipes from My Abuela’s Kitchen to Yours” by Mia Castro CHILDREN
“What a Small Cat Needs” by Natalia Shaloshvili
“Dog Origami” by Zoey Schrader
“Some of Us Are Brave” by Saadia Faruqi This is just a small sampling of the many new titles added each week to the Fort Vancouver Regional Library District collection. Visit the district’s 15 locations, our website at www.fvrl.org, or call (360) 906-5000 to reserve titles or find additional listings.
I’ve always known I was lucky when it came to family. I saw classmates who had impossible siblings, and I knew my curly-headed younger sister was a catch. I knew people who really hated spending time with their parents, and I always had fun with mine— and I still do.
I grew up with 36 cousins, 34 of whom were on my mother’s side. It was a lot easier to keep track of my father’s side of the family, but I always felt somehow rich, having so many cousins spread over so much of the country. When I married, I acquired another family, a boisterous Catholic family who laughed and drank and cussed more than my own. I immediately loved my mother-in-law who stayed up well past midnight with me, discussing big ideas, and my father-in-law who would listen in for a few minutes, shake his head and say, “I’m going to bed!” When I divorced, one of the hardest things to accept was that I was going to lose this family I had been given in marriage, a family I had grown steadily closer to for more than 22 years. But that turned out not to be the case.
I was reminded of how fortunate I was. My husband, Peter, went hiking with Jason and, as usual, met some friends on the way.
“Was it awkward, introducing Jason to friends?” I asked.
“No, he just introduced himself as your former brother-in-law,” Peter said. It was not a big deal—not to Peter, not to Jason, not to anyone.
But it is a big deal.
It is a very big deal for me to still have a strong relationship with these people I love, after the loss of a marriage changed the landscape. I have lost some good friends in the past, and I still feel those losses. To lose an entire family would be terrible. And I have not.
We did not spend much time together. I was busy with a writers’ conference and had less time than I would have liked. But when we were together, we shared funny stories of things we had done years ago, stories of things we are doing today, and stories from our childhoods, before we even knew one another. Of course, my ex-husband was woven into many of these stories, but so were people who had died—Mandy’s wonderful husband, my father- and motherin-law. Circumstances constantly change. But love survives.
taste. Cook, stirring, until pasta is tender and liquid thickens, 9-12 minutes. In small bowl, whisk remaining evaporated milk, cornstarch and dry mustard. Stir into skillet. Continue simmering until slightly thickened, about 1 minute. Remove skillet from heat. Stir in cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses in batches, adding water to adjust consistency. Stir in butter then season with salt and pepper, to taste.
I’ve now been divorced and remarried for many years, and those former in-laws are still my family. It was their choice, of course, and possibly not an easy one—to remain close to a former daughter-in-law or sisterin-law. But my former mother-in-law, who has since passed, set the tone and let me know I’d always have a place in her heart, and her children followed suit. And I know I am enormously lucky.
Last week, I got to spend time with a couple of them. My former brother- and sisterin-law, Jason and Mandy, came to visit and celebrate their birthdays, and once again,
More than ever, I realize how lucky I am when it comes to family. And I also realize how little biology or legalities have to do with what makes a family. We need people in our lives who know our stories from the past and are interested in our stories today. We need people who share our old jokes that other people won’t ever fully understand. We need people who can accept us, along with the changes that are always a part of life—and remain family.
To see photos,check out CarrieClassonAuthor on Facebook or visit CarrieClasson.com.
Porcupines!
a walking hairbrush. Oh no, this rodent is a survival expert wrapped in thousands of tiny spears! A slow-moving, tree-climbing, bark-chewing bundle of spikes that survives by being calm, clever, and very well armed. The porcupine may not be the fastest animal in the forest, but when you’re covered in 30,000 quills, you don’t really need to be. That’s a portable security system!
Let’s talk about species. Did you know there are about 30 different kinds of porcupines around the world? In North America, the big star is the North American porcupine . This is a chunky tree-climber with a face that looks like it forgot where it left its sandwich. Over in Africa, you’ll find the impressive African crested porcupine, which is one of the largest rodents on Earth, packing 10-inch quills! Different species live in different parts of the world, but they all share one incredible feature and that is their quills.
A porcupine’s quills are actually modified hairs made of keratin which is the same material as your fingernails. Despite what people think, the quills don’t fly through the air, but they detach easily when touched. If something brushes against a porcupine, that animal may walk away with some very uncomfortable, barbed souvenirs. These barbs make it much harder to pull the quills out. Porcupines don’t like drama so they take a defensive posture and warn the other animals with hisses, and chattering teeth. A threatened porcupine will also raise its quills straight up to make itself look bigger and meaner than it really is. It is saying, “back away bruh, you’re making a bad decision.” The porcupine may look calm and cuddly from a distance, but those quills are serious business. Nature didn’t mess around when designing that defense system.
Academy
Extra teaching materials right here on our website
What’s a porcupine’s favorite kind of art?
Porcupines live across North and South America, parts of Africa, and even southern Asia. They’re not picky about where they live; they just need food and a safe place to rest. Porcupines slow down during winter to conserve energy but they don’t really hibernate. They are also strict vegetarians. Eating leaves, twigs, bark, berries, and plants. Porcupines are mostly quiet, slowmoving, and surprisingly gentle. They usually only have one baby at a time and baby porcupines are called Porcupettes.
aren’t just spiky woodland wanderers, they are masters of survival. They are one of the most respected animals in the wild. They teach us that strength does not always roar. You can move slowly, climb carefully, choose peace, but still be fierce. Who knew rodents can teach humans life lessons?
