The judging for the Best Decorated Homes and Businesses will be Thursday December 11. Turn on your lights as dark approaches and leave them on until after 10 p.m.
On December 13 the Candy Lane Christmas Parade will again be going down the streets of Goldendale at 5 p.m. It all starts with line-up at 3 p.m. at the Goldendale Primary School.
The Christmas tree on the Courthouse lawn will be lit at 4:30 p.m. by the four Grand Marshalls. The Goldendale High School Band will be performing prior to the lighting So come to the Courthouse lawn for this entertainment prior to the start of the parade.
Remember to come see Santa after the parade at the old Masonic Lodge and enjoy soup, cookies, and hot chocolate. At this time awards will be presented to the Best Decorated Houses and Businesses and the top three parade participants.
This year’s Grand Marshalls are dedicated to celebrating volunteerism and embody the spirit of dedication and community service:
Michelle Mulrony has served as a volunteer with the Klickitat County Department of Emergency Management for over five years. She was the public information officer during Covid. She also served during Emergency Operations Center activation during the 2023 Newell Road, 2024 Big Horn, 2024 Williams Mine, and the 2025 Burdoin fires. She often shows up to help prior to the call going out to others.
Jane Lee was born and raised in Pennsylvania and moved to California in 1963. In 1972 she married Robert Lee, a native of Goldendale, and they began working on their cattle ranch. Jane has served as bank board member of the Klickitat Valley Bank and Columbia Bank and past president of the Washington State CattleWomen and the Klickitat County/Women. Jane has served as a volunteer fire fighter for Rural 7 since 1972 and a Fire Commissioner for the Klickitat County Fire Protection Districts since 1997. Jane is still an active fire fighter and Search and Rescue volunteer since 2008.
Brian K. Paul came from a U.S. Navy family and is actively engaged with the Klickitat County Sheriff’s Posse Scout Program. He provides logistics and manages all inventory related to their programs including community-oriented police and departmental support. He serves as a honorary member of the Goldendale Chamber of Commerce as well as secretary for the KVH Foundation board.
John Halm has this to say: “I’m deeply humbled to serve as one of this year’s Grand Marshalls for the Candy Cane Lane Parade, representing the dedicated first responders of Klickitat County. My journey in the fire service began in 1984 with the Goldendale Fire Department, following in the footsteps of my father, who began serving in 1969. Throughout my career, I have been honored to serve as assistant chief and fire chief, and in my early years I was certified to teach firefighting classes across several outlying districts. I also spent many years serving our community as an EMT with Rescue 7 and Klickitat Valley Health. From 2008 to 2012, I served with Rural 7 Fire District before returning to the Goldendale City Fire Department, where I remain an active volunteer today. Service runs deep in our family. All three of my sons have served with the Goldendale City Fire Department, and my youngest, Noah, has proudly served as Chief since 2013. My daughter-inlaw and my grandson have also
TIS THE SEASON
Shredded cheese recalled in county TIS THE SEASON
RODGER NICHOLS FOR THE SENTINEL
Klickitat County Commission-
ers had a long day of it December 2, starting at 8:30 a.m. The packed agenda kept them at it until 4 p.m. with a scant hour for lunch. That was followed up with a public hearing on the six-year master road plan that evening in White Salmon.
Much of the action was focused on the 2026 budget, presented by Budget Manager Heather Gallagher.
“This year’s budget for all funds is $69,622,772,” she told commissioners. “That is a 5 percent reduction from the current 2025 amended budget, which also includes the third supplemental, which we just approved on November 25.”
One positive note is that the projected increase in insurance coverage for the county, which had been estimated at 35 percent, came through at just 7.5 percent. That is still higher than inflation but a lot easier to deal with.
She also noted the budget adds three new staff positions before a planned hiring freeze goes into effect January 1.
“One is a probation case manager, to be shared with the cities,” she said. “The jail is to get a control board operator and then there’s a position in the Sheriff’s Office.”
That means that Sheriff Bob Songer is going to get the funds he’s been requesting for staff positions. When County Administrator Robb Van Cleave assured him that the budget contains funding for 14 deputies, three sergeants, and a fourth administration staff position. Songer responded, “Thank you, thank you, thank you.”
Commissioners also discussed the situation arising from the sudden resignation of Klickitat County Prosecuting Attorney David Quesnel, who announced his resignation the day before Thanksgiving, effective Decem-
A major recall of shredded cheese products is underway after Great Lakes Cheese Co. announced that more than 260,000 cases of cheese shipped nationwide may contain metal fragments, according to a report by King 5 TV in Seattle. Stores in Klickitat County are affected. Many of them carry some of the cheese brands being recalled. The recall stretches across 31 states and Puerto Rico and includes many well-known store brands, such as Walmart’s Great Value, Target’s Good & Gather, Happy Farms by Aldi, Food Club, and Always Save.
According to King 5, the contamination involves raw materials supplied to the manufacturer and is categorized by the FDA as a “downstream recall.” Affected products include mozzarella, Italian-style blends, pizza blends, and other shredded cheeses in packages ranging from 8 ounces to 32 ounces. Consumers are urged to check their refrigerators and look closely at batch numbers and sell-by dates, which vary by brand but generally fall between January and March of 2026. The recall was first initiated in October and was elevated to a Class II FDA recall on Dec. 1. Class II recalls are issued when a product may cause temporary or medically reversible health issues, with a lower likelihood of serious harm. Nonetheless, metal fragments can present choking
Klickitat County Search and Rescue seeking volunteers
Melissa Uhles
For The SenTinel
Klickitat County’s Search and Rescue (SAR) teaches a Basic Skills Academy every other year, and one is being held in January. SAR hopes to enroll new volunteers.
The Academy teaches the core competencies necessary to support the regular missions they perform. Successfully passing the Academy ensures an individual is field ready.
Skills covered include search tactics, navigation, survival, communications, lost person behavior, and more.
The Academy is held one evening a week starting January 13 and one Saturday a month, culminating in an overnight skills test in April.
Benefits to volunteering include learning to be more self-sufficient, making friends, giving back to the
community, saving lives, and being a part of something bigger than yourself.
For those interested in joining SAR, volunteers need to be over the age of 16 and must first attend three functions (general meetings and/or training). They will also be required to pass a background check and then get voted in.
Vice President of Klickitat County SAR Michael Carter said after that is accomplished, the volunteer may then begin training. Following successful completion of the Academy, the volunteer is then qualified to support both missions within Klickitat County and mutual aid missions in other counties.
Asked how often volunteers are called upon to be in the field, Carter said, “On an average year, [Klickitat County] SAR is called out for around 18 missions. This is usually around 12 missions within Klickitat County and
Yakama Nation to BPA: restore salmon funds
The Confederated Tribes and Bands of the Yakama Nation are calling on the Bonneville Power Administration (BPA) to reverse its decision to withhold more than $50 million in Columbia Basin Fish Accord funds, warning that the action threatens critical salmon recovery work and undermines longstanding federal environmental commitments. BPA had previously assured the Tribe that unspent funds from the 17-year partnership would remain available to Yakama Nation after the Accords expired to support habitat and hatchery projects across the Basin.
BPA has asserted that Yakama Nation’s support for an unopposed procedural motion to lift a litigation stay in National Wildlife Federa-
tion v. National Marine Fisheries Service (NWF v. NMFS) was an “adverse litigation action” that violated the fish accords. The Yakama Nation stated it strongly disputes BPA’s interpretation and has asked the BPA Administrator to restore the Tribe’s access to withheld sccord funds.
This year, the federal government withdrew from two major regional salmon recovery partnerships— the RCBA and the Columbia Basin Fish Accords. Although the terms of the Accords obligated BPA to negotiate successor agreements, BPA unilaterally decided to allow the Accords to expire on September 30, 2025, without replacements.
the rest on mutual aid missions in other counties (primarily Skamania but also Yakima and others). This year, we have been called out for over 20 missions.”
Carter provided the following examples of scenarios that have utilized the resources and volunteers of Klickitat County Search and Rescue.
One day an automobile accident down a steep embankment required assistance from SAR’s technical rope team. They set up a secured anchor and rope system to safely lower a litter (a stretcher designed to be used where there are obstacles that impair movement) and volunteers down
the steep embankment. They addressed the patients’ first aid needs. The ropes team then hauled the litter, subject, and litter attendants up to the road where the subject was transferred to a waiting ambulance. In another situation, a hunter had gone missing and spent the night out without contact. Working with Skamania County, the SAR team, including a K9, worked various search areas based on the subject’s last known position. After a few hours of searching, the subject was located. The person was uninjured and able to walk, allowing the team to quickly assist the individual back to the road
and to their vehicle. There was another instance where fire department personnel needed an assist. SAR helped extricate a subject trapped under boulders by once again using their technical rope team. The subject was eventually transferred a short distance to an ambulance. Sometimes another county needs some extra help, too. That was the case with a subject who had a broken ankle and was rescued at the top of Dog Mountain in Skamania County.
“I want to make sure it is known that we are interested in volunteers with all levels of experience and abilities,” Carter said. “With our
training program, we will teach what we need. Plus, as far as capabilities, we have mission tasks for folks who are able to hike many miles off-trail through a thick forest, as well as tasks for folks who stay at our command post working radio communications, mapping, and other support.”
For those who are interested in joining the SAR volunteer team, January academy sign-ups and more information can be found at www.klickitatsar.org/Volunteer.
Ron & Jean Moline 75th(Diamond)Anniversary
GOLDENDALES ATTIC
A couple of cute kids behind them Who are Sentinel
cutting the proverbial these kids? Where was in the
rug Which isn’t really thistaken? When? Why?
a rug, ’cause this is out- We can’t wait for you to
side somewhere Theres tell us! All we know is send
Anewangleatthecourthousethisweekwasthelockingoutofthejurydeliberatingacasethisweek Normally the juryislocked in When theyleft theCourthousefor dinner someoneslammed thedoor to the jury room and thelock had beensetfrominside Thefiredepartment, sheriff,and highway patrolwerecalled,andtheir combinedeffortsgainedentrancethroughasecondstorywindow
December8, 1955-70 YearsAgo
HassingMotorsofGoldendaleWednesdaypurchasedthepartsandequipmentoftheGarnerEquipmentCompany and has been awarded the John Deerefarm equipment franchisefor the Goldendale Area The Garner firmhashadthefranchiseheresince1951 PartsandmachinesfromtheGarnerbuildingonEastDStreet will betransferredtoHassingsplantonColumbusAve duringthenexttwoweeks BesidestheJohnDeeredealershiptheHassingCompanyisdealerforAllis-ChalmersfarmequipmentandStudebakertrucks Theyoperatea publicweighingscale
Richard Lefever Klickitat County Historical Society
Once a sailor, always a sailor, describes Jake Tol, 60-year-old Holland born seaman, whofor the past 25 yearshaslivedquietlyatLyle reminiscingoverthedayshe spent roving the seven seas asanA B intheDutchand Britishmerchantmarine
During the past week an exhibitofthesemodelships someofthemmountedinside bottles in the time honored manner of theseaand some mounted inside elaborately carved pine frames and painted glass covers, have been on display in The Sentinel office WentAroundWorld
The ships exhibited by Tolwerecarvedoutentirely by hand The frames of the threeornateshipmountings shown in The Sentinel window were carved by Tol with an ordinary pocket knifefrompinewood
Born on a small Dutch farm near Rotterdam Holland, Tol, like so many ofthehardymenofhisrace,
wenttoseaasaboyof15 By thetimehewas17Tolwasan able-bodiedseamanandwas ontheBritishbark Nibsdale boundaroundtheworld HasKeepsake Sailing ships traveled slowly in those days in the early1890s,andTol’sshipdid notagainreachthehomeport of Glasgow for three years During the trip around the globeTol’sshiproundedCape of Good Hope, touchedCape Town, Madagascar, several points in India, the East Indies,Australia,Chile,went around the Horn and back to Scotland Fifteen dollars a month was sailor’s pay in those days and considered goodatthat,Tolrecalls Asakeepsakeofthattrip, Tolhasasmallmodelofthe ship Nibsdale under full salemounted insidea small whiskey bottle This ship modelwasmadebyTolmore than 40 years ago while he wasboundroundtheworld Today Tol operates the Holland cafe in Lyle and in his spare time carves ships, mounts them inside bottleswhoseopeningsseem altogether too smallfor the model sailing ships inside them,andspinsyarnsabout thesea
OpiniOn
On December 1, the Goldendale School Board hosted a listening session that brought together nearly 30 community members, staff, and student family members. These sessions are an important part of how we engage with our community, providing opportunities for the district to share information and, most importantly, for us to hear directly from those we serve. This month’s discussion focused on enrollment, funding, and the impacts these challenges have on staffing and facilities.
Participants expressed a deep investment in our community and our schools—many are multi-generation families, alumni, current employees, coaches, and business owners. People shared a strong desire to stay informed, listen to different perspectives, and support students. Alongside this commitment, they also voiced concerns about how the district will tackle and communicate the challenges.
When asked about their greatest hopes for Goldendale School District, several themes rose to the surface:
• High-quality, basics-focused instruction, especially in math, reading, and foundational skills.
Guest Column Ellen Perconti, GSD Superintendent
• Students who feel they matter, are connected, and graduate prepared for success.
• Expanded STEM and career-focused opportunities and stronger connections with the broader community.
• Growth—in both enrollment and community perception.
• Strengthened programs that build community pride.
Many participants shared personal ties to Goldendale schools—having graduated from GHS themselves or having children enrolled today—and expressed how strongly they want GSD to be a source of strength for the entire community.
Like many districts across Washington, Goldendale is experiencing declining enrollment. With statewide birth rates projected to continue falling, it is essential for us to plan carefully and proactively. Over the next several months, the Board and I will be working closely together to understand the realities of Washington’s school-funding model and to make decisions that protect high-quality learning for every student. Our students remind us every day why this work matters. They share that they come to school because of their friends and their teachers—and they use “teachers” to include every adult who supports them. They appreciate the staff who take extra time to explain, who check in when something seems off, and who show that they care about their learning and about them as people.
As we move into the months ahead, we will listen, learn, advocate, and ensure that Goldendale schools continue to be a place where students feel known, supported, and prepared for their future. And where everyone contributes every day.
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
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
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
I recently received an updated “Terms for Business and Deposit Account Agreement” from Columbia Bank. I am not in the habit of reading the fine print but for some reason this time I did. I came across an “added” line that I found very concerning. Again, this line is both for personal and business accounts. It reads: “We may refuse to open and account and may close your account at any time for any reason or for no reason at all.”
“For No Reason At All” I particularly found offensive.
I contacted the bank for an explanation. The answer was essentially that “we wouldn’t do that.” Then why is it in your documents, I asked. The answer was to send me up the chain of command. The second person gave the same answer as the first and then was to have me contacted by some-one higher up. That person has not contacted me after more than a week so I am following through on what I told the bank contacts I was going to do—write a letter to the editor to be sure local folks are aware of how Columbia Bank is choosing to deal with its account holders. My concern is that a comment as broad as this opens the door for abuse. I have had no difficulties with our local branch and am sorry that the headquarters has decided to take such a hard line. It ap-pears I will need to look for a bank that does not behave in this manner.
Ken Margraf Goldendale
Letters from the community
It’s all supply and demand
This is America. We are a society built on capitalism. Capitalism at its foundation is based on supply and demand. We have a drug problem in America? It’s basically just capitalism. Supply and demand.
We’ve been fighting this war on drugs my entire adult life. I’m 75, and America is no closer to solving the drug problem than the day it started. Today America has chosen to kill the supposed supplier. I guarantee you this won’t work. By
the very nature of capitalism, the demand will be met by supply. The only way to get rid of the supply is to stop the demand.
People in America demand drugs because America is a broken country. Our schools no longer teach, and young people can’t buy a house. A living wage isn’t offered to young people. They can’t live the American Dream, so they take drugs so they can at least have a dream. I want this to stop. I want all people to have a job that can provide for a family. I don’t care if it’s just
Guidelines for Letters
taking a rake to the forests paid for by the government. People deserve a dream in America. If government can’t give them that dream, they’ll find it in drugs. We have the money to do this. What do you think one fifth of the American military costs? Spend the money wisely, and give people jobs with a living wage. Stop the nonsense. Tax the rich. Provide jobs.
Thomas Wilson 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.)
H OMETOWN
Looking a lot like Christmas
Here we are almost to mid-December already. So many events have occurred, including the Glenwood Community Christmas Tree Lighting the evening of December 6. The Glenwood General Store served hot cocoa to all who attended and it was a very festive night. The Glenwood Station hosted a Christmas movie afternoon for local children. I see lots of people really getting into the spirit of the Glenwood Community Christmas Lights contest. Glenwood’s little uptown area looks so bright and festive at both the Glenwood Station and Glenwood General Store.
I have some great news to share that will leave you with feelings of appreciation and thankfulness. A few years ago, one of our good Glenwood citizens, Kris Nowak, took over placing and care of the flags along Glenwood’s Main Street, after many years of Todd French volunteering his time and effort to the project. Kris began accepting donations to purchase new flags to replace many that were getting quite worn. Kris recently shared this news, and I wanted to share it with everyone in this Christmas season of giving and sharing.
Kris said, “Today I got a text from Claude at the General Store saying that someone left a box of American Flags. Inside the box were seven brand new Allegiance Flags. Not only do we get generous donations from local community, but this donation was from a gentleman from Clark County. He passes through our town on his way from Clark County to his other place in Goldendale. When I called to thank him, he said he just wanted us to have some fresh flags. With the cash donations
I’ve already received, I can now order the remaining flags for a fresh look this spring. I’m also making new flag poles that will last a lot longer than the ones currently hanging. This is truly a great town, with great people. Thank you, everyone.” And we all say, thank you very much, Kris. You are very appreciated for what you do for our community. And thank you, Todd, for doing that great service for so many years. With our school district
levy measure coming up for a vote in February, I wanted to share this important information. Our county auditor said several ballots for the November 4 election didn’t get counted because they were postmarked a couple days after the election. She said the problem is voters may be putting their ballots in the local post offices on election day, but they don’t get postmarked locally. Everything goes all the way to Portland, then gets postmarked, sorted, and sent back to the addresses for which it was meant.
So it’s usually about two days just to get that postmark.
Please keep in mind for future votes that if you wish to put your ballot in the outgoing mail of your local post office, it will be two days later before it gets a postmark. She urges voters to get their ballots in earlier or put them in a drop box. Every community has one and it’s a more secure way to know your ballot will get to its destination by the deadline.
I’m including this important message from Glenwood School Superintendent/Principal Bob Rogers one more time because there is a response deadline for those wishing to do a write up for the voter pamphlet. Glenwood School District is seeking applications from persons interested in being appointed to committees to write the for or against statements for the Klickitat County
Local Voters’ Pamphlet related to the District’s upcoming Replacement Educational Programs and Operations Levy ballot measure to be considered at the February 10, 2026, election. The deadline has been extended, so any registered voter in the Glenwood community who is interested should send their name, address, phone number and which position they represent to Robert Rogers, Superintendent, Glenwood School District, PO Box 12, Glenwood, WA 98619 or via email to bob.rogers@ glenwoodsd.org by December 11 or directly to the Klickitat County elections office by 5 p.m. on December 12. Here are reminders of other December events: The Christmas concert will take place in the school gym on Tuesday, December16, at 6 p.m. That’s always a very enjoyable program with students in preschool through elementary.
Jenna Blake, a Klickitat high school 2017 graduate,
again this year is asking for support from the area communities to help with the annual Christmas toy drive. If you can, please help Jenna make Christmas a little more joyful this year by donating new, unwrapped gifts, coats, shoes, hats, gloves, and other items for children aged 19. Jenna began this annual drive in 2014 and continues it year after year. Thank you for your caring heart, Jenna, and thank you to all who can help. There will be a collection box at the Glenwood school until December17.
The Glenwood school Christmas dinner will take place December 19 beginning at 10:30 a.m. The homecoming court will be announced, and Mr. D. will lead the elementary students in providing some great music. The cost for adults is $5.16. It’s not too late to reserve a dinner. Please contact Mrs. Troh in the school office by December 15 to reserve your dinner(s). This is always a very fun, festive dinner before the students and staff head into the Christmas break.
FFA members build holiday cow in hands-on project
GAGE HALM GMS FFA REPORTER
Fifty FFA members rolled up their sleeves this holiday season to take part in a unique wood construction project. Students worked together to sand, stain, and fasten parts that came together to form a wooden cow. The workshop was organized by Goldendale FFA advisors Randi and Josh Krieg, along with Goldendale SkillsUSA advisor Blake Lesko. The effort was further supported by Mr. Lesko’s Construction students and Mr. Krieg’s Advanced Agriculture students, who prepared the materials in
advance. Robert Thompson also lent his expertise, guiding students through the fastening process.
Beyond building a holiday cow, the project’s larger goal was to encourage students to enroll in woodscourses and spark interest in constructionrelated careers. “I learned about how to stain properly and how nice it makes the wood look. This made me want to do more with woodworking,” shared Amy Gorrod, GMS FFA member.
The project highlighted teamwork, craftsmanship, and holiday spirit while showcasing the dedication of students, advisors, and mentors alike.
‘TIS THE SEASON: The Glenwood General Store decked out for Christmas.
place at the District
FFA competition in Ellensburg on December 1. The team consisting of Maggie Gutierrez, Hayden Sheridan, and Anna Hauge, has qualified to compete at State in May.
Shirley Ann Johnson and Melvin Earnest Johnson
Shirley Ann Johnson, October 10, 1926 – November 20, 2025. Born in Boise, Idaho, to Hjelmar and Celia (Johnson) Branden.
Melvin Ernest Johnson August 13, 1924 – July 27, 2022. Born in The Dalles, Oregon, to Earnest and May (Hockmar) Johnson. Shirley graduated from school in Caldwell, Idaho, in 1944 and moved to The Dalles with her family. Melvin graduated from high school in The Dalles. He briefly attended Oregon State University before enlisting in the Navy on August 5, 1943. During World War II, he served in the Patrol Bombing Squadron as a radioman on the flight crew of a B-24 bomber until April 27, 1946. Shirley and Melvin were married on July 5, 1947, in The Dalles. Melvin worked as an X-ray technician at The Dalles hospital. They moved to Goldendale in
1950. Mel took a position at Klickitat Valley Health (KVH). Melvin once said that when he started at KVH, he was an assistant administrator, X-ray tech, part time ambulance driver, and part time janitor. He became a fulltime administrator in 1951, retiring in 1988. During his time at KVH he was also the administrator of the Simcoe Manor Nursing Home and president of the Washington State Hospital Association. He spent time in New York city getting his certification to be a consultant to other Washington state hospitals to acquire state funding. Mel was also on the board of trustees for the Maryhill Museum. Mel and Shirley had many interests. Shirley was a very dedicated homemaker and mother of three active boys. She enjoyed playing bridge and, always, the friendship of her bridge
club members. She also enjoyed golfi ng and snow skiing. In her younger years you could fi nd her and her five sisters competing in swim competitions at the Caldwell swimming pool. It was very important for Shirley to pass on the tradition of baking Norwegian rye bread, which her family still enjoys eating today. Mel was always active with horses and very much enjoyed teaching his boys and their children how to handle and ride horses. He spent many days helping area ranchers gather and work cattle, something he very much enjoyed.
For many years you could fi nd him at the contestant gate during the Klickitat County Fair and Rodeo.
Mel and Shirley were long-time members of the Goldendale Country Club. They both enjoyed boating and water skiing. For summer vacations they always gave us boys the option of Disneyland or Priest Lake, and for 50 years we never went to Disneyland. During
their time at Priest Lake, Mel and Shirley enjoyed teaching friends and family how to water ski behind their beloved 1963 Tollycraft boat. Now it has come full circle, and their greatgrandchildren are learning to ski behind the same boat—what a tradition!
Shirley was preceded in death by her parents, three brothers, five sisters, and her son Gregory Lynn Johnson. Mel was preceded in death by his parents, one sister, one brother, and son Gregory Lynn Johnson.
Mel and Shirley are survived by sons Michael (Judy) Johnson and Kevin (Nancy) Johnson; eight grandchildren; 17 great-grandchildren; and numerous nieces and nephews.
After 75 years of marriage, Mel and Shirley’s wished that their notices of passing and their memorials be at the same time. A memorial is planned for March 2026. You both will be dearly missed.
September 27, 1960 –November 25, 2025
Brian was born in Vancouver, Washington, to John A. and Charlene McDowell.
Brian attended school in Vancouver and Goldendale. He enlisted in the U.S. Air Force. While serving in Spain, he met Maria Del Mar Madrigal. They married and had two children, Alex (deceased) and Tatiana. In 2000 Brian married Keri Chambers who had one son, Brian (deceased), and they had two children, John Ross and Brittany. Brian was employed as a foreman for Double Duce
On December 4, 2025, Lawrence “Buster” Jacob Warrener passed away peacefully at home in Centerville at the age of 78.
Construction Company in Billings, Montana, where he resided until his death. Brian is survived by his mother, Charlene McDowell; three children, Tatiana Madrigal McDowell, John Ross McDowell, and Brittany McDowell; three
March 7, 1973 – December 4, 2025
Jonathan “John” Franklin Sullivan, 52, of Goldendale, Washington, passed away suddenly on December 4, 2025, from a heart attack.
John was born in The Dalles, Oregon, on March 7, 1973, to Mary Ellen Sullivan and Norman Franklin Sullivan. He was raised in Rufus, Oregon, until the early 1990s when the family moved to Goldendale. He made Goldendale his permanent home, building a life deeply rooted in community, friendship, and family.
John is survived by his brothers, Don Sullivan and Bill Sullivan. He joins in heaven his beloved sister, Sherri Sullivan, and his
Jonathan Franklin Sullivan John (Brian) McDowell
parents, Mary and Norman. In 1994, John met the love of his life, Brandie. They quickly fell in love and were married on December 7, 1995, sharing over 30 years side by side. Together they devoted themselves to raising their five children: Sherri Sullivan, Megan Sullivan, Stephanie Sullivan, Tiffany Sullivan, and Syd Sullivan. John often joked that he “couldn’t have sons,” but he proudly welcomed three bonus sons-in-law—Robert (Bert) Cook, Reed Bostick, and Mathew Ketchum. His six grandchildren were the light of his life, and he cher-
ished every moment spent with them.
A true jack of all trades, John held many jobs in his younger years before fi nding his second home at CarQuest, where he worked for the last 25 years. Five years ago, he became partowner of the business. He poured his heart, time, and talent into the store, shaping it into what the community knows and loves today. For John, CarQuest was more than a workplace—it was a second family. He greeted everyone with a smile, and laughter was always close behind. John loved spending time
with his dogs, working on cars, riding his Harley, and enjoying good times with friends and family. He loved a great party surrounded by his favorite people. Anyone who knew John knew his generous spirit— he never met a stranger, welcomed everyone, and opened his home to those who needed a place to feel loved and accepted.
John was deeply loved by so many. His warmth, humor, and big heart touched countless lives. He will be forever missed and forever remembered.
A service honoring John’s life will be held on Saturday, December 13th, at the Nazarene Church in Goldendale, Washington. Rest easy, John. You will forever be in our hearts.
Buster was born on September 29, 1947, in Vancouver, Washington, to Roland and Bernice (Brown) Warrener. Buster spent his early years growing up in Amboy, Washington, with his two brothers and three sisters. When not in school, Buster often said that he learned his strong work ethic by starting his first job at a local dairy farm at age 6. The Warrener family moved to Goldendale, and Buster attended Goldendale High School where he met the love of his life, Brooke. After graduation, Brooke and Buster were married on December 19, 1965, and they moved to Yakima to start their life together. After they both decided that city life wasn’t for them, they returned to Centerville where Buster drove a logging truck, and they took over the Mattson family farm. Brooke and Buster lived in Centerville for the next 58 years.
Over the years Buster worked as a commercial driver and in 1991 started working with Ty Ross as they opened the Roosevelt
A memorial service is planned for this summer.
Landfill. Buster went on to spend two decades driving to Roosevelt daily before retiring as the trucking operations manager. Retirement wasn’t for Buster, and he spent his remaining years at Cranston Farms in Moro, Oregon. Buster worked with many people he was honored to call friends. Buster is preceded in death by his wife Brooke and his parents Roland and Bernice and sister-in-law Diane. He is survived by his children: son Matt (Khristine) of Lake of the Ozarks, Missouri; daughter Amy (James) of Spokane, Washington; and son Brock (Mariah) of Centerville.
Buster’s family included brother Jim (Jayne) of Joseph, Oregon; sister Jeanne of Merida, Yucatan; brother Bill (d. Diane) of Stanwood, Washington; sister Mary (Dan) of Selah, Washington; and sister Ruth (Rod) of Selah, Washington. He was a proud grandfather to seven grandchildren and four great-grandchildren and was “Uncle Buster” to many nieces and nephews. Graveside service will be held on Sunday, December 14, at noon at the Centerville Cemetery, with a reception following at the Centerville Grange Hall.
grandchildren, Elaina, Delila, and Forest; one brother, Blake McDowell (Autumn); four sisters, Deby McDowell, Dianne Marvel (Ken), Leisa McDowell, and Tara McDowell (Andrew); and many more family members and friends.
4-H Happenings
Patricia Shamek For The SenTinel
Spotlight member: This week we are featuring Taryn Miller who has been a member of the HorseN-Around 4-H Club for 9 years and is a sophomore at Goldendale High School.
4-H has been a big part of her life. At the young age of five, Taryn became a member of 4-H where she was introduced to the positive benefits of community service by assisting 4-H leaders at meetings and clinics. As the years passed, she has become active in several community service projects and exemplifies leadership by helping younger members and adults accomplish their goals.
Taryn demonstrates how 4-H can affect every aspect of your life. She says, “4-H is a family tradition and a way of life.” Through her time in 4-H, she has developed a belief that anything
can become a project in 4-H, even if it is a self-determined project. One of her examples is her love of ballet. A member of the Touch of Class ballet studio, she documents her love for ballet in a project. This allows her to keep track of the skills she is learning and helps her set goals she wants to work towards in her ballet lessons.
Taryn’s more traditional projects include raising and breeding miniature Hereford cattle, sewing, knitting, crocheting, cooking, (baking, food preservation, and general food preparation), leadership, arts and crafts, horses, and veterinary science. Her horses are her major project as she does performance (English, Western, and Dressage), Western games, and judging. She has taken her cows, horses, still life, judging, and impromptu speaking to competitions at the Washington State
Fair in Puyallup for the past few years. Her community service includes assisting with the Spring Horse Camp, Youth Summer Horse Camp, Still Life Camp, and Adult Horse Camp. This year she even had the opportunity to assist in lining up the Veterans Day Parade. If there is an opportunity to assist someone, Taryn is the first to volunteer. Besides her community service, Taryn demonstrates her leadership by taking time to assist younger members with their projects, assisting with the planning of various camps and clinics. Taryn will even interrupt her learning at the clinics and camps if she sees someone who needs help.
In addition to 4-H, she is involved in WASHET (Washington State High School Equestrian Team) with her horse, Niki. As a member of the Goldendale High School WAHSET Team,
Taryn participates in Hunt seat Equitation (English), cattle classes (sorting and roping), and reining with her amazing horse. If Taryn asks, Niki will try anything for her. They are an amazing team.
In 2026, Taryn will also be representing Glenwood as the Ketchum Kalf Rodeo Queen. She looks forward to being able to use her leadership and public speaking skills in fulfilling her duties as the rodeo queen.
Upcoming events include a cooking/canning clinic on January 17 at the Goldendale Grange from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Pre-register for this clinic so we can have adequate supplies available for your participation.
On January 31 from 9 a.m. to noon there will be a sewing clinic at the Goldendale Grange with a project for all levels of sewers. Again, pre-register so we have adequate supplies available for all.
New Library of Things available through FVRL
meliSSa UhleS For The SenTinel
There is something new to check out at the Goldendale Community Library. The Fort Vancouver Regional Library (FVRL) offers the Library of Things, allowing residents to borrow tools, musical instruments, recreational equipment, and more. Beginning on November 17, these non-book items became available for patrons to check out.
When I perused the catalog myself, examples of “things” I found were a ukulele, a telescope, cake pans, a GoPro camera, and wooden blocks for kids. There are many more items to put on hold via their website and pick up at the library when they come in. FVRL anticipates adding more items in the future.
First, patrons will need
CHEESE from page A1
risks or cause injuries to the mouth, throat, or digestive tract.
The recalled cheese was distributed across a wide swath of the country, including Washington, Oregon, California, Idaho, and other Western states, as well as much of the South, Midwest, East Coast, and Puerto Rico.
Shoppers who purchased any of the affected products should avoid consuming them and may return them to the place of purchase for a refund.
A complete list of recalled cheeses—including batch numbers and sell-by dates— appears below for readers’ reference.
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ber 14. He still had a year to go in his term of office, and commissioners decided to advertise for an interim prosecuting attorney, with applications to close on the 19th and an appointment made the following Tuesday. One of the changes coming in the new year is the merger of several departments. County Administrator Van Cleave told commissioners: “We’ll be announcing later this week that I’ll be promoting Scott Edelman to the director of the new combined building/ planning/economic development/code compliance department, which has yet to be named. He will start that new role on the first of January. I look forward to working with Scott. He’s got a lot of experience in this area, and we’re going to rely on him a lot.”
The morning session included a special childcare workshop that brought in representatives of a number of local and regional agencies and Washington 17th District Senator Paul Har-
to put a hold on their item because they are stored in a central location and delivered to each library when a hold is placed. Once the hold is ready, cardholders will receive a pickup notice and can collect their items at most FVRLibraries locations. Items are available for a three-week checkout period at no cost.
In a statement FVRL said, “The Library of Things represents what libraries do best, providing equal access to resources, whether someone wants to try pickleball, needs a drill for a weekend project, or wants to explore a new hobby like sewing, we’re expanding what it means to have access–and making it easier to learn, create and try something new.”
Curious how it was funded? The Library Foundation invested $15,000 in
List of recalled shredded cheeses (FDA recall data)
• Happy Farms by Aldi –Italian Style 12-oz cheese blend; batches 0008922982, 0008926344; sell-by 2/22/26, 2/23/26
• Brookshire’s – Italian 6-Cheese Blend; batch 1500562884; sell-by 2/14/26
• Cache Valley Creamery –Italian Style Blend; batch
ris. The event was largely in response to persistent advocacy by local citizen Gabrielle Gilbert, whose longtime vow is to end Klickitat County as what she calls “a childcare desert.”
A number of suggestions came from participants. One noted that Whatcom County has a Healthy Children Fund, established by a tax levy, that has been highly successful. Some cited financial barriers to starting up new businesses, including the “prevailing wage” requirement for new construction, which greatly increases the cost. Even more so is WAC 51-50-0429, which now requires new construction with parking to include electric vehicle charging infrastructure. Even new private homes must be “EV ready,” meaning having an appropriate electrical supply and designated parking spot.
Another suggestion was to ask local governments for waivers on system development and sewer and water hookup charges for new childcare construc-
2025 to help build the initial collection. The Foundation has also committed additional funding in 2026 to grow and refine offerings in response to community feedback.
Music, crafting, hobbies, home projects, baking, learning, tech, and creative gear are some of the categories of items that can currently be found in the
• Great Value – Pizza Style Blend; several batches; sell-by 2/14/26–2/20/26
• Freedom’s Choice – Pizza Blend Fine-Cut 32-oz;
tion, which can run into the thousands. And some testified that certain licensing and operating rules are so oppressive that many people who might want to start day care facilities back away.
The fact that the state of New Mexico has universal free childcare thanks to endowments funded by revenues on oil and gas extraction and surplus federal COVID funds had some participants suggesting that the county look for similar revenues from wind and solar power farms.
Commissioners held public hearings adopting the 2026 budget and setting the property tax levies, and the six-year transportation master plan. Public meetings included one short plat and two boundary line adjustments.
One item was pulled from the consent agenda, a proposed alternate work schedule for an assistant planner in the planning department. Commissioners did approve:
• A public meeting for
FVRL catalog.
According to their press release, FVRLibraries welcomes patron suggestions for future additions to the collection and is accepting donations of new or likenew items that support creativity, learning, or everyday projects.
For more information, visit www.fvrl.org/libraryof-things.
batch 0008922161; sell-by 2/22/26
• Good & Gather (Target)
– Mozzarella/Provolone and Mozzarella/Parmesan blends; multiple batches; sell-by midMarch 2026
• Great Value – Mozzarella/ Provolone blends; several batches; sell-by 2/7/26–2/20/26
For a full breakdown of each batch identifier, readers may consult the FDA’s recall database or return their product to the retailer for verification.
approval of short plat, SPL 2025-04, Pyle.
• A public meeting for approval of boundary line adjustment, BLA2025-02, Eichner.
• Approval of Boundary Line Adjustment, BLA 2025-10, KLM Developing LLC.
• Certification of tax levies of taxing districts within or coextensive with Klickitat County to the Klickitat County Assessor.
• A public meeting for approval of short plat, SPL 2024-18, Sanders.
• A professional services contract with Teresa D Johnson CPA, Inc.
• A public meeting for approval of short plat, SPL 24-08, Abeyta.
• A public meeting for approval of short plat, SPL 2025-08, AJM Investments.
• Klickitat County Health Department Medicaid administrative claiming agreement.
• Advertising for the CGRA Business Park Training Facility Project.
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joined the ranks, carrying our family’s commitment to community forward. While this recognition is a tremendous honor, I accept it on behalf of all first respond-
ers. We have an incredible team dedicated to serving Klickitat County, and I’m grateful to stand alongside them.”
IN THE SUPERIOR COURT OF THE STATE OF WASHINGTON FOR THE COUNTY OF KLICKITAT
PETER MIRAMON and ELIZABETH MIRAMON, husband and wife, Plaintiffs, v. HEIRS AND DEVISEES OF JAMES R. THOMPSON, DECEASED; and ALL PERSONS OR PARTIES UNKNOWN CLAIMING ANY RIGHT, TITLE, ESTATE, LIEN, OR INTEREST IN THE REAL ESTATE DESCRIBED IN THE COMPLAINT, Defendants. Case No. 25-2-00245-20
SUMMONS
The State of Washington to the said Heirs And Devisees of James R. Thompson, Deceased; And All Persons Or Parties Unknown Claiming Any Right, Title, Estate, Lien, Or Interest In The Real Estate Described In The Complaint:
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 5th day of November, 2025, and defend the above entitled action in the above entitled court, and answer the complaint of the Plaintiffs, and serve a copy of your answer upon the undersigned attorney for Plaintiff, at his office below stated; and in case of your failure so to do, judgment will be rendered against you according to the demand of the Complaint, which has been filed with the clerk of said Court.
The object of this action is for adverse possession of and to quiet title in real estate to Plaintiffs in Klickitat County, described as:
That certain strip of land bounded on the Southwest by the Northeast boundary of Lot 2, City of White Salmon Short Plat No. WS-SP-1988-6-15, filed in Book 2 of Short Plats, page 15, records of Klickitat County; on the Northwest by the Northwesterly boundary of said Lot 2, extended; on the Southeast by the Southeasterly boundary of said Lot 2, extended; and on the Northeast by the Southerly boundary line of the right of way of Grandview Boulevard; All in the County of Klickitat, State of Washington. Dated this 5th day of November 2025 Jordan Ramis Learon John Bird, WSBA #53249 Attorney for Plaintiffs (4509, 4603, 4701, 4801, 4901, 5001)
SHERIFF’S PUBLIC NOTICE OF SALE OF REAL PROPERTY IN THE SUPERIOR COURT OF THE STATE OF WASHINGTON IN AND FOR THE COUNTY OF KLICKITAT. SHERIFF’S PUBLIC NOTICE OF SALE OF REAL PROPERTY. UMPAQUA BANK, SUCCESSOR BY MERGER TO STERLING SAVING BANK Plaintiff v. DOE 1 AND DOE 2 WHO ARE UNKNOWN HEIRS AND DEVISEES OF DOUGLAS R. JOHNSON; Defendants, No. 23-2-00287-20. TO: Doe 1 and Doe 2 who are unknown heirs and devisees of Douglas R. Johnson, 1235 Hwy 142, Lyle, WA 98635. The Superior Court of Klickitat County has directed the undersigned Sheriff of Klickitat County to sell the properties legally described as follows to satisfy a judgment in the above entitled action: Property Description: Street address: 1235 Hwy 142, Lyle WA 98635. Legal Description: In the County of Klickitat, State of Washington LOT 3, BLOCK 1, STEARNS TRACTS, VOLUME 3 OF PLATS, PAGE 41, RECORDS OF KLICKITAT COUNTY, WASHINGTON. TOGETHER WITH THE RIGHT TO USE WATER FOR DOMESTIC PURPOSES FROM THE PIPELINE PRESENTLY ON THE SAID PREMISES. Assessor’s Property Tax Parcel/Account Number: 4-13-2251-0103/00. The sale of the above described properties is to take place: TIME: 10:00 A.M.
DATE: December 26, 2025
PLACE: Klickitat County Courthouse. The Judgment Debtor can avoid the sale by paying the judgment amount of $45,200.04, together with interest, costs and fees, before the sale date. For the exact amount, contact the Sheriff’s office at the address stated below. KLICKITAT COUNTY SHERIFF, 205 S Columbus,
ESTATE OF FREDRICK B. HEIN, Deceased. No. 25-400063-20
PROBATE NOTICE TO CREDITORS
The Personal Representative 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 provided in RCW 11.40.070 by serving on or mailing to the personal representative or the personal representative’s attorney at the address stated below a copy of the claim and filing the original of the claim with the court in which the probate proceedings were commenced. The claim must be presented within the later of: (1) Thirty days after the personal representative served or mailed the notice to the creditor as provided under RCW 11.40.020(1)(c); or (2) four months after the date of first publication of the notice. If the claim is not presented within this time frame, the claim is forever barred, except as otherwise provided in RCW 11.40.051 and 11.40.060. This bar is effective as to claims against both the decedent’s probate assets and nonprobate assets.
Date of first publication November 25, 2025
Personal Representative: JEAN H. ROBERTSON
Attorney for Personal Representative: KRISTIN LILLQUIST REEDER, WSBA #29491
Address for Mailing Service: 2370 130th Avenue NE, Suite #103 Bellevue, WA 98005 (425) 861-1109
Court of probate proceedings and cause number: 25-400063-20 Klickitat County Superior Court (4812, 4908, 5003)
SUPERIOR COURT OF WASHINGTON FOR CLARK COUNTY IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF DIANE V. CAZALET, Deceased. Case No. 25-4-01477-06
PROBATE NOTICE TO CREDITORS
RCW 11.40.020, .030
William S. Stallings III has been appointed as personal representative (“personal representative”) of this estate. Any person having a claim against the decedent must, before the time the claim would be barred by any otherwise applicable statute of limitations, present the claim in the manner as provided in RCW 11.40.070 by serving on or mailing to the personal representative or the personal representative’s attorney at the address stated below a copy of the claim and filing the original of the claim with the court in which the probate proceedings were commenced. The claim must be presented within the later of: (1) 30 days after the personal representative served or mailed the notice to the creditor as provided under RCW 11.40.020(1)(c); or (2) four months after the date of first publication of the notice. If the claim is not presented within this time frame, the claim is forever barred, except as otherwise provided in RCW 11.40.051 and RCW 11.40.060. This bar is effective as to claims against both the decedent’s probate and nonprobate assets.
Date of First Publication: November 26, 2025
Personal Representative: William S. Stallings III
Attorney for the Personal Representative: Jakob O. Seegmuller Address for Mailing or Service: c/o NW Legacy Law, P.S. 1003 Officers Row Vancouver, WA 98661
Court of probate proceeding: Clark County Superior Court Cause number: 25-4-0147706
Jakob O. Seegmuller, WSBA No. 53860
Attorney for Personal Representative NW Legacy Law, P.S.
This Just In....
Klickitat County Mitigated Determination of NonSignificance: SEPA 2025-20. Applicant: Des & Sheryl Verley - Klickitat County Planning Department
• Notice to Creditors: Gary C Clouse - Asher Law Legal Notice: Notice of Vacancy Klickitat County Prosecuting Attorney - Klickitat County Commissioner’s Office
• Summary of Ordinance: 1550 Adopting Uniform Rates and Charges for the Goldendale Municipal Airport Services - City of Goldendale
1003 Officers Row Vancouver, WA 98661 (4816, 4911, 5004)
NOTICE TO CONTRACTORS
Sealed bids for the CGRA Business Park Training Facility Project, will be received by the Board of County Commissioners at the reception desk located in the Klickitat County Public Works Department, 115 West Court Street, Room 302, Goldendale Washington. Mailing address 115 West Court Street, Mail Stop 303 Goldendale Washington 98620 until 1:15 p.m. on January 6, 2026 for performing the work described below. Sealed bids received will be opened at the Commissioner’s Chambers and publicly read aloud on Tuesday, January 6, 2026 at 1:30 p.m. or shortly thereafter. Bids received after 1:15 p.m. January 6, 2026 will not be considered. The county reserves the right to reject any and all bids, and to waive informalities that are not, in the opinion of the County Commissioners, material. Bid envelopes shall be appropriately marked on the outside “Bid opening 1:30 p.m. January 6, 2026 CGRA Business Park Training Facility Project”.
This contract provides for the construction of a 10,000 s.f. Training Facility and lot 17 site development. Specific work includes, but not limited to concrete foundation, building construction, excavation, utilities, base/top course, HMA roadway, all in accordance with the Plans, Contract Provisions and the Standard Specifications Bid proposals shall be accompanied by a bid proposal deposit in cash, certified check, cashier’s check or surety bond in the amount equal to five percent (5%) of the amount in the bid proposal. Should the successful bidder fail to enter into such contract and furnish satisfactory performance bond within the time stated in the specifications, the bid proposal deposit shall be forfeited to Klickitat County. Approximate project cost is estimated to be between $2,300,000 and $3,500,000. The Klickitat County Public Works Department, in accordance with the provisions of Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 (78 Stat. 252, 42 US.C. §§ 2000d to 2000d-4) and the Regulations, hereby notifies all bidders that it will affirmatively ensure that any contract entered into pursuant to this advertisement, disadvantaged business enterprises will be afforded full and fair opportunity to submit bids in response to this invitation and will not be discriminated against on the grounds of race, color, or national origin in consideration for an award.
Obtaining Bid Documents: Free of charge: Plans, Specifications, addenda, bidders list, and plan holders list for the project are available though the Klickitat County’s on-line plan room. Free of charge access is provided to Prime Contractors, Subcontractors and Venders by going to http:// bxwa.com and clicking on: Posted Projects; Public Works; Klickitat County; and Projects Bidding. Bidders are encouraged to “Register” in order to receive automatic email notification of future addenda and to place themselves on the self registered “Bidders List.” This on-line plan room provides Bidders with fully usable online documents; with the ability to: download, print to your own printer, order full / partial plan sets from numerous reprographic sources (on-line print order form), and a free on-line digitizer / take-off tool. Contact Builders Exchange of Washington at 425-258-1303 should you require assistance. Dated this 2nd Day of December, 2025.
BOARD OF COUNTY
COMMISSIONERS
Klickitat County, Washington Ron Ihrig, Chairman
Todd Andrews, Commissioner Lori Zoller, Commissioner ATTEST:
LeeAnn Burgin Clerk of the Board Klickitat County, Washington (4912, 5005, 5101, 5201, 5301)
NOTICE OF OPEN HOUSE for the Snowden Road Scoping Project
The project is located on Snowden Road in the (Locke Hill Vicinity), MP 3.50 to 4.38. Klickitat County will be holding an informal open house for citizens to learn more about this project and provide input on future project options in this vicinity. There will be no formal presentations. Visitors may drop by anytime between 6:00 p.m. and 7:00 p.m. and view available materials, ask questions and provide comment.
Wednesday December 17, 2025 Pioneer Center (White Salmon Room)
501 NE Washington Street White Salmon, WA Questions? Need Special Accommodations? Please call the Klickitat County Public Works Department at 1-800-5838074 or (509) 773-4616
Title VI Statement
It is Klickitat County’s policy to assure that no person shall, on the grounds of race, color, national origin, as provided by Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, be excluded from participation in, be denied benefits of, or be otherwise discriminated against under any of its programs and activities. Any person who believes his/her Title VI protection has been violated, may file a complaint with Klickitat County’s Human Resources Department. For additional information regarding Title VI complaint procedures and/ or information regarding our non-discrimination obligations, please contact Klickitat County’s Title VI Coordinator at (509) 773-7171 or by email at: titlevi@klickitatcounty.org. Aviso a personas con dominio limitado del idioma inglés: Si usted tiene alguna dificultad en entender el idioma inglés, puede, sin costo alguno, solicitar asistencia lingüística con respecto a esta información llamando al (509) 773-4616, o envíe un mensaje de correo electrónico a: titlevi@klickitatcounty.org (4913, 5006)
PUBLIC NOTIFICATION
The Klickitat County Lodging Tax Advisory Committee meeting is scheduled for Monday, December 15, 2025, at 10:00 A.M. at the County Services Building, 115 W. Court Street, Room 100, Goldendale, WA. You may also join the meeting virtually via Google Meet: meet.google.com/ncs-usrmiyx. For additional information, please call (509) 773-7060. (4914, 5007)
IN THE SUPERIOR COURT OF THE STATE OF WASHINGTON
IN AND FOR THE COUNTY OF KLICKITAT KLICKITAT COUNTY, WASHINGTON, Plaintiff, vs. CERTAIN REAL PROPERTIES IN KLICKITAT COUNTY WITH DELINQUENT PROPERTY TAXES AND ASSESSMENTS FOR 2022 AND EARLIER YEARS, AND THE OWNERS THEREOF AND PERSONS INTERESTED THEREIN, Defendants. Case No. 25-2-00233-20 NOTICE AND SUMMONS IN TAX FORECLOSURE FROM: THE STATE OF WASHINGTON AND COUNTY OF KLICKITAT
TO: WHOM IT MAY CONCERN, INCLUDING EACH OWNER OF AND ALL OTHER PERSONS, KNOWN AND UNKNOWN, WITH INTERESTS IN THE PROPERTIES DESCRIBED BELOW
This is to notify you of legal action begun by Klickitat County against certain real properties and against all persons, known or unknown, having or claiming any interest in those real properties, described below and situated in Klickitat County, Washington. Known defendants are named in Exhibit A, attached and incorporated by reference, and listed with 23 each parcel in which they are known or believed to have an interest.
YOU ARE ALL notified that Klickitat County, the plaintiff, is the owner and holder of the Combined General Certificate of Delinquency in book form, issued to Klickitat County by the Klickitat County Treasurer according to applicable law, on the 3rd day of October 2025, for the delinquent truces and applicable assessments on those parcels for which the truces and 5 assessments remain due and unpaid for more than three (3) years prior to the issuance of the certificate, together with interest, penalties, and costs (including title search). The Combined General Certificate of Delinquency Number 25-2-00233-20 has been issued for nonexempt properties and truces and assessments for which no previous certificates of delinquency have been issued or which, having been once issued, remain outstanding.
YOU ARE FURTHER NOTIFIED that the parcel number, description, and location (including street address, where applicable) of each respective property included in the Combined General Certificate of Delinquency; the names, if known, of the parcel owner or owners as they appear upon the true rolls in the Office of the Treasurer, or, if unknown, so stated; the names of the holders of liens and other interests identified in title searches performed according to applicable law; and the respective amount for which the Certificate was issued as to each property, with interest from date of delinquency through December 31, 2025, 18 plus penalties and costs to such date as required by law, are set out in Exhibit A.
The first six digits of the true parcel number denote Township, Range and Section. The first set of two digits indicate Township, the second set of two digits indicate Range, and the third set of two digits indicate Section. The several sums set forth bear interest at the rate prescribed by law, from the date of the Combined General Certificate of Delinquency, October 3, 2025.
EACH OF YOU, as owners of, claimants to, or holders of interests in the real properties described, are summoned to:
(1) Appear within thirty days after the date of the publication of this notice and summons (within thirty days after December 4, 2025, exclusive of the first day of publication), and defend this action, and serve a copy of your appearance or answer on the undersigned attorney for the plaintiff, at the office address indicated below; or (2) Pay the certificate amount indicated above, plus any additional interest, penalties, and costs then due. You may redeem your property by payment of the delinquent taxes, assessments, interest, penalties and costs. However, pursuant to RCW 84.64.070, there is no right of redemption after the close of business (5:00 p.m.) on the day before the sale date. A date of May 12, 2026, beginning at the hour of 8:00 a.m. has been planned for the sale, which will be conducted through the website www.bid4assets.com/ klickitat. This sale date is subject to change; however, prior to sale, notice shall be published for two weeks in the local newspaper. However, prior to sale, notice shall be posted for ten successive days in three public places in Klickitat County, one of which shall be the Klickitat County Treasurer’s office. YOU ARE FURTHER NOTIFIED that if you neither appear and defend, as above described, nor redeem, as above described, this will constitute default, and judgment will be rendered against your property without notice, foreclosing the lien of taxes, interest, penalties, and costs shown above together with intervening interest, penalties, and costs, and ordering the sale of each lot,
tract, or parcel of the property for the satisfaction of the sums charged and found against it, as provided by law and as requested in plaintiff’s complaint now on file in this court and cause. If you wish to seek the advice of an attorney, you should do so promptly so that your written response, if any, may be served timely. This Notice and Summons is issued pursuant to RCW 84.64.050. Dated this 1st day of December, 2025. KLICKITAT COUNTY, a duly organized and existing County of the State of Washington, Plaintiff, By: Greg Gallagher
County Commissioner Rebecca Cranston WSBA #48192
Deputy Prosecuting Attorney Attorney for Plaintiff 205 S. Columbus, MS-CH-18 Goldendale, WA 98620 (509) 773-5838
EXHIBIT “A” Interest 12-31-2025
3 NAME: James Shelton Esther Shelton Floyd Bartmess Jr Address: 501 E Broadway Goldendale, WA 98620 PARCEL #: 04-16-21210003/00 SITUS: 501 E Broadway Goldendale, WA 98620
10 NAME: Hossom Family Farms LLC Address: 2708 Pine St Napa, CA 94558 PARCEL #: 03-12-15000008/00 Situs: Unknown Situs address Acres: 32.99
Legal: NWSE LYING WEST OF CO RD LESS R/W 15-3-12 Lienholders: Klickitat County Treasurer
205 S Columbus RM 201 Goldendale WA 98620 Value: 15,030 Year Principal, Interest, Penalty, Costs, Total 2022 27.83, 11.71, .00, 620.00, 659.86 2023 28.41, 9.50, .72, 38.63 2024 28.40, 5.59, .76, 34.75 2025 28.39, 2.24, .76, 31.39 Minimum Bid 764.63
31 NAME: James F Bergquist Address: PO BOX 630, MILTON, WA 98354 PARCEL #: 03-21-17520052/00 Situs: Unknown Situs Address, Roosevelt, WA Acres: .46
Legal: LOT 52 W ROOSEVELT ADD P97-02 PHASE 1; 17-321
Lienholders: Klickitat County Treasurer
205 S Columbus RM 201 Goldendale, WA 98620 Value: 22,010 Year Principal, Interest, Penalty, Costs, Total 2022 164.12, 74.14, .00, 620.00, 858.26 2023 160.45, 53.27, 17.09, 230.81 2024 161.41, 32.99, 17.20, 211.60 2025 160.03, 12.90, 17.05, 189.98 Minimum Bid 1,490.65
32 NAME: Delbert Wheeler Jennifer Wheeler Address: PO BOX 237 NORTH, WHITE SWAN, WA 98952 PARCEL #: 06-12-10550303/00 Situs: N Bunnell St, Glenwood, WA 98619 Acres: 0.00 Legal: S 33.33 FT OF LOTS 3-5; LOTS 6-8 BLK 3 GLENWOOD; 10-6-12
Lienholders: Klickitat County Treasurer 205 S Columbus RM
KLICKITAT COUNTY MITIGATED DETERMINATION OF NON-SIGNIFICANCE
Notice is hereby given that Klickitat County issued a Mitigated Determination of Nonsignificance (MDNS) on December 4, 2025 under SEPA Rules (Chapter 197-11 WAC) and the Klickitat County Environmental Ordinance Number 121084, as amended, for the following proposals: SEPA 2025-20. Applicant: Des & Sheryl Verley. A Short Plat application requesting to subdivide 51 acres into four lots. The proposed short plat is located in the NE section of, Section 18, T4N, R11E, W.M. Klickitat County, WA (HusumBZ vicinity) on tax parcel 0411-1825-0301/00. 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 avail-
able at the Klickitat County Planning Department during normal business hours. Comments on the above project is due by 5:00 pm December 26, 2025. Appeals on the above environmental review will be accepted until 5:00 pm January 2, 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. (5009) 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
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BIKE
bike trainer, Deuter MT-04, use your won bike $40 503515-5665 FIREWOOD free (rounds) for anyone in need. Columbus Avenue Baptist Church crew will load for you. Please call Ric Stone at 509-250-1332 for details and appointment.
FRESHLY CUT and limbed pine logs, FREE, on Box Canyon Rd 509-773-4497
RECLINER in good shape
$50 509-773-4497
P225/60R17 TIRES, legal tread $10/ea 509-261-2758
RC CARS, 1 electric 1 fuel powered, + extras $100 each OBO 509-773-5494
FISHING REELS 3 unused, make an offer 509-7735494
CHROME RIMS. Ford 6 lug. $100 or B/O. 509-773-5227.
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. Loans
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
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.
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
AA in WAMIC (open): Tuesdays @ 7pm, NEW LOCATION! Molly B’s @ 57740 Main St., Tygh Valley, Oregon.
NA MEETINGS Every Wednesday. 6:30 - 7:30 at the Casa Guadalupe House, 1603 Belmont, Hood River, Oregon.
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.
TOPS OR #942 meets at Gateway Presbyterian Church, The Dalles, Thursdays, 5:30-6:30pm.
MAC Lung Disease Support Group: for details, please call 541-483-2253 or 541805-5068.
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.
PARKINSON’S Support Group: 1st Thursday of every month, 10:45am11:45am in the Deschutes Room at Waters Edge, 551 Lone Pine Blvd., 2nd Floor. For more information, please contact Chad @ 541-340-0142.
ALCOHOLICS ANONYMOUS meetings please go to gorgeaa.org.
DO YOU HAVE HURTS, HABITS, HANG-UPS?
Attend CELEBRATE RECOVERY, a faith-based 12 step program, every Thursday night at Hood River Alliance Church 2650 W. Montello (Off Rand Road) Dinner provided at 5:45pm
non-probate assets.
Date of First Publication: December 10, 2025.
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 (5010, 5103, 5202)
LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF VACANCY
The Klickitat County Board of Commissioners announced the recent resignation of Prosecuting Attorney David Quesnel, effective December 14, 2025. In accordance with RCW 36.27, the Board is seeking qualified applicants to serve as Klickitat County Prosecuting Attorney. This in-
and large group meeting at 6:30pm For more info. call 541-386-2812
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.
AA in MAUPIN (open), Maupin Community Church, 490 5th St., Thursdays @ 7pm.
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
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.
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.
AL-ANON in The Dalles: The Dalles Serenity meeting every Monday at 7pm @ Gateway Presbyterian Church, 1111 Dry Hollow. For more info, call 541-296-2677.
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
DEMENTIA
Support Group every 2nd Monday of the month at the Oregon Veterans Home, 10:30am - 11:30am 541-296-7190 for info.
YOUNG Parents Support Group: ages 15-21, Tuesdays @ 7pm, call Tess @ 541-298-5104.
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.
GRIEF SUPPORT Establishing a Grief Support Group. Please call Natasha 702-755-0778
Volunteers
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
terim appointment will fill the remainder of the current term through December 31, 2026. Eligibility Requirements as outlined by RCW 36.27.0101: Applicant must be a qualified elector of Klickitat County, Washington and must be admitted as an attorney and counselor of the courts of the State of Washington. Application requirements must include Letter of Interest, Resume, and proof of membership in the Washington State Bar Association. The application deadline is December 19, 2025 at 5:00 PM. Interviews will be conducted by the Klickitat County Board of Commissioners and will be held Tuesday, December 23, 2025. Please submit your complete application package no later than 5:00 PM on Friday, December 19, 2025. Applications may be submitted by email to BoCC@KlickitatCounty.org or delivered to the Klickitat County Board of Commissioners Office, Attn: Board Clerk, County Services Building, 115
W Court Street, Room 201, Goldendale, Washington. Questions may be directed to (509) 773-4612 or BoCC@ KlickitatCounty.org (5011, 5104)
CITY OF GOLDENDALE
SUMMARY OF ORDINANCE NO. 1550
On December 1, 2025 the City Council of the City of Goldendale, Washington passed Ordinance No. 1550. A summary of the content of said ordinance provides as follows: AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF GOLDENDALE, WASHINGTON ADOPTING UNIFORM RATES AND CHARGES FOR GOLDENDALE MUNICIPAL AIRPORT SERVICES The full text of this ordinance is on file at City Hall and the full text of the ordinance will be mailed upon request. Dated: December 1, 2025 Shelly Enderby Clerk-Treasurer (5012)
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.
$500 or Less
STUDDED Tires on Toyota Tacoma Rims. 245/7516 Wintercat. $50/set. Call or text Paul, 541-350-8747.
$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.
JACOB Doll Antique Upright Piano. Needs to be cleaned and tuned. Free. You Haul. 541-806-0859.
FOOD Dehydrator, 9 shelves. $15. 541-3541748.
JACOB Doll Antique Upright Piano. Needs to be cleaned and tuned. Free. You Haul. 541-806-0859.
LOVESEAT with Hida-ABed. Brown and tan fabric. $25. 541-354-1748
STUDDED Snow Tires on Wheels. 70SR15 & 75SR15. Come off of a 2019 Jeep Grand Cherokee. $250. 509-281-3040.
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
Christmas ELLETT’S U-CUT TREE FARM Nov 28 to Dec 21 Wednesday thru Sunday 9am-4:30pm 3715 Browns Creek Road The Dalles 541-993-6063
LOCALLY GROWN NORDMAN & CONCOLOR FIR CHRISTMAS TREES
School board meeting notes
Alex Gorrod attends meetings of the Goldendale School Board and shares his notes with The Sentinel. These are not official minutes of the meetings. I was able to attend the Goldendale School District Board Meeting on Monday, November 24, 2025. Here are some of the highlights. This is my summary, and I do my best to include what is said (without my own bias), though it is most often my summation rather than direct quotes. Check out the full agenda online at: https:// meetings.boardbook.org/Public/ Agenda/780?meeting=716333.
1. Tia Hoctor (GMS Assistant Girls Wrestling Coach) and Ashley Bryan (GHS Assistant Girls Basket-ball Coach) were hired.
2. Lane Siebert, Sam Wilder, and John Rolfe (GHS Boys Basketball); Robbie Hinckley and Mike Hus-sey (GHS Girls Basketball); and Rachele Williams, Trina Visser, and Larry Pangle (GHS Wrestling) were all approved as volunteer coaches.
3. Resignations were accepted from Ana Villafana (Bilingual Para), Lacey Barrett (GMS Assistant Girls Basketball Coach), and T.J. Wilder (GHS Head Football Coach).
4. Mr. Schlenker reported that the general fund was at $1,947,146 in October (down from $2,033,959 in September and slightly down from October 2024, $1,960,444).
5. Mr. Schlenker also reported on enrollment. FTE stands for Full Time Equivalent, every FTE pro-vides $10,000 in funding. GPS had a 282.51 FTE (last year it was 305.4). GMS had a 245.15 FTE (Last year it was 255.99). GHS
had a 282.22 FTE (last year it was 304.17). The total is 809.88 (last year it was 855.56). Online had a 2433.03 FTE (Last year it was 2160.67). He also stated that GPS is down around 75 FTE and GMS is down around 52 FTE since just before Covid.
6. Mr. Schlenker also gave an update on the new stadium. The Football field has been completed and is signed off on. The bathroom/concessions will be brought in around December 9th. The track and bleachers should be installed around March or April. The track hit an issue with the sub-grade. A water truck was left on during the night and because of this accidental occurrence it came to light that the subcontractor that was putting in the subgrade had done it improperly by not putting in a fabric and using the incorrect size of crushed rock. If this had not been found then there would have been issues with the track due to drainage. The company is trying to de-cide if they will redo the entire subgrade process or inject a cement mixture to resolve the issue. The district is also trying to make sure they get an additional extended warranty due to this eror.
7. Dr. Perconti (Superintendent) went through the fall Data Dig. The next one will be in February. The entire overview can be found online on the agenda. The first two portions focused on Math and ELA standards. They asked teachers to base their opinion off of “professional judgement” and “evidence collected” (think test scores and daily work) if students
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PUBLISHER’S
NOTICE All real estate advertised herein is subject to the Federal Fair Housing Act, which makes it illegal to advertiser any preference, limitation or discrimination based on race, color, religion, sec, handicap, familial state or 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: 1-800927-9275.
were on track to meet grade level standards or not. For math the result was 54% (399 out of 737) of students below standard and not expected to meet it by the end of the year. This is broken down by grade level in the report. In comparison, last fall the number was 44% (287 out of 647). The report then talked about how they are looking at trying to bring those students up to standard. For ELA (English Language Arts) the result was 51% (395 out of 768) of students below standard and not ex-pected to meet it by the end of the year. The report also talked about ways they are hoping to improve this area. The next portion discussed discipline issues over the first 2 months of school (8/2710/31). It broke down categories of discipline into: Short Term Suspension, In School Consequence, and Emergency Removal. It then broke it down for each school over the past 3 years during this 2 month time period. 2023 had 53 reported disciplines doled out, 2024 had 38, and 2025 had 108. Dr. Perconti stated that these numbers may not reflect reality as not all inci-dents are being reported, thus the numbers are meaningless to help understand how much disci-pline incidents have grown, stagnated, or decreased over the past 3 years. If the numbers are trusted then the increase in incidents has doubled over the last 2 years. The final portion of the report was about the November 14th professional learning day. It was reported that 19 certified and paras from GPS, 9 from GMS, and 9 of GHS attended this training.
8. Ms. Hedges (Principal at GPS) reported that they have 285 students. 92% have missed less than 7 days and 71% have missed less than 4 days. They have 98% participation in Parent/Teacher con-ferences. They held a Veteran’s Day assembly which was well received. She talked about some of their strategies concerning how to improve in areas addressed in the Data Dig.
9. Ms. Lummio (Principal at GMS) reported that they have 92% participation in Family Conferences and that those that went felt they got a lot out of the new format. They have seen an increase in daily attendance this month. She spoke to some of their strategies concerning how they are try-ing to improve in the discipline portion of the Data Dig.
10. Ms. Reddinger (Principal at GHS) reported that they had an assembly that honored a recent graduate who helped a motorist who was in a dangerous situation. This graduate works for Les Schwab and the person he helped works for the Cle Elum school district and sent a letter of thanks to GSD for helping produce someone that would act in this way. She also stated they have 87% Conference participation.
11. Ms. Swanson (Vice Principal at GHS/Activities Director) reported that FFA had a Thanksgiving dinner with over 80 in attendance. Winter sports have started with 31 boys and 23 girls in bas-ketball and 16 boys and 9 girls in wrestling. She was asked about other activities (drama, band, etc…) but had no information on those activities.
12. Izzy Doll-Torres (Student Representative) reported that the Veteran’s day assembly and lunch-eon was well received. FCCLA is currently doing Back Pack for Kids (which supplies food for home) and is making around 282 a week. They are also about to have a cookie fundraiser. FFA was recognized as a 3 star program which means they are the top 3% of FFAs in the nation. The GHS bands will have their Christmas concert on December 8th at 6:30pm. This will also include a silent auction to raise money for band trips. We Scare Hunger was able to bring in 363 cans of food for the local food bank. And the Prevention Club will be going to a training in Vancouver in early December. Ms. Doll-Torres then raised concerns that she had or other students had expressed to her. She stated that, though she understood the pros of having each student forced to join a club, she also saw negatives about this and felt it was something that needed to be looked at further and possibly changed. She did say that the TACoS group at GHS was already talking about this issue. She also said she felt some teachers were only teaching for a paycheck rather than wanting to educate students. This was due to some statements that she and other students have heard from those teachers during class time. She talked about consequences for rule violations that were not the same across the board, which created a very confusing situation for her and other students about whether those rules actually mattered.
furry friends are welcome here, with plenty of space for them to explore. Dog bathing room with key card access is available.
• Convenience: With easy access to major highways and public transportation, commuting has never been easier. EV chargers available. Special Offer: For a limited time, take advantage of our special move-in promotion! Contact our leasing office for more details. Why Choose Fox Ridge? At Fox Ridge Apartments, you’re not just finding an apartment, you’re discovering your new home. Our community is part of Carla Properties, Ltd., a name synonymous with quality housing in the Portland metro area. We’re committed to providing our residents with a living experience that exceeds expectations. Ready to Make the Move? Don’t miss out on this opportunity to make Fox Ridge Apartments your new home. Visit
Manufactured Homes for Rent THE DALLES - 10’ x 50’ Mobile Home on Cherry Heights Road. 2 bedrooms, 1 bath. $800 all inclusive. Credit background check required. 541-980-0805. Rentals Wanted NEED TO RENT APARTMENT
Wanted to rent in The Dalles only. One bedroom unfurnished, uncarpeted apt, ground floor. One cat. Willing to pay non-refundable pet deposit and pet rent. Spouse lives at Oregon Veterans Home. Good credit. References available. Tommee Carlisle, 928-499-9023 (VM or text). Open Houses Welcome to 355 Tamarack, Goldendale!!
Offered at $485,000
This 3 Bed, 2 Bath, 1714 sq ft, single-level, custom home on five park-like acres offers distinctive craftsmanship, and at night, this landscape becomes a sanctuary for stargazers. The home’s peaceful atmosphere and stunning setting make it a natural fit for vacation rental or guest use. With thoughtful, quality updates throughout, this delightful home is move-in ready for the next chapter waiting to unfold! Check Out Our Upcoming Open House: Saturday, November 22, from 12pm-3pm
Or call your favorite Realtor to schedule a showing today!! For More Info: Call/Text Jenifer Watson or Gil Martinez RE/MAX @ 509-945-0890. Help Wanted CONTROL BOARD OPERATOR
Department of Corrections –Goldendale, WA. Full-Time, 40 hours a week - Non-Exempt – Salary set by Union, $21.25/Hr. Open until filled. Visit www.klickitatcounty. gov for details contact HR Dept. 509-773-7171. A Klickitat County application must be on file to be considered for employment.
MARKETING SALES
REPRESENTATIVE Columbia Gorge News is seeking a sales and marketing representative for the news media territory. Sales experience preferred. Candidate should have the ability to meet multiple deadlines, communicate clearly and effectively, be outgoing and have the ability to want to work with a variety of customers. Small businesses are the heart of our clients, and the job will require travel to businesses throughout The Gorge area. Office and remote work available. Weekly newspaper sales, niche print publications and online website are many of the products to market. Pay will be hourly during 60-day training and work towards salary and commissions. PTO/retirement match. Health insurance not currently available. Full or part time offered. Contact publisher, ChelseaM@GorgeNews.com to apply.
LOOKING for a new job? Browse employment ads from throughout the Gorge on our classified websites: thedalleschronicle.com hoodrivernews.com whitesalmonenterprise. com
THE TICKET to a dream job might be a scam. Please be cautious! High-Paying Postal Jobs! No Experience Required! Don’t pay for information about jobs with the Postal Service or Federal Government. Call the Federal Trade Commission toll free @ 1-877-FTC-HELP, or visit www.ftc.gov to learn more. A public service message from Teh Dalles Chronicle and the FTC.
NOW HIRING FOSTER PARENTS!
The Next Door, Inc. (TNDI) is hiring full-time foster parents to work with youth, ages 6-18. Applicants must live in Hood River or Wasco Counties. TNDI provides 24-hour support, free training, paid days-off and up to $1800 tax-free/month, for each youth. Bonus also offered for completion of certification! Contact 541308-2207 or visit www.nextdoorinc.org/fosterparent to apply.
COLUMBIA
GORGE NEW IS HIRING AN OUTSIDE MARKETING REPRESENTATIVE
Outside Marketing Representative: Columbia Gorge News is hiring a marketing advisor to service businesses in the area. This position is outside sales for the weekly newspaper in print and online plus niche publications. You must live in the Columbia River Gorge to perform this job. If you are outgoing and like to talk through ideas, this position is for you. The candidate will work from both home and the office. They will need reliable internet, computer, and a smart phone. A vehicle and valid driver’s license with insurance is a must. The candidate will work one on one with small businesses in our community to help them find ways to effectively market their business. The sales position will allow the person hired to work their own schedule to fit the needs of the customers. Weekly sales meetings and trainings required. Must have the ability to multi-task and be selfmotivated. The ability to handle basic excel or word documents, perform math calculations and the willingness to communicate well with customers in person and over the phone are needed. Sales experience a plus but will train the right candidate. This position is mainly MonFri but is somewhat flexible with part-time or full-time hours. Hourly, mileage, plus commissions. Email resume and references to: ChelseaM@GorgeNews.com Columbia Gorge News P.O. Box 390, Hood River, OR 97031. If you have questions, leave a message: 541-386-1234 Ext. 100.
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 need to drive-in all-weather conditions. Ability to easily lift 25lbs required. Minimum wage, part time. To inquire send job history and references to: ChelseaM@Gorgenews.com or call 541-386-1234 ext. 100. Address: Columbia Gorge News, 1812 Belmont Ave., Hood River, OR 97031.
Air Conditioning & Heating Business & Service Directory 4 Weeks Up to 10 Lines Print and Online Only $45 $5 per additional line. Contact your local newspaper or place your ad online using our fact and easy online entry system. hoodrivernews.com 541-386-1234 thedallechronicle.com 541-296-2141 whitesalmonenterprise. com 509-493-2112
NOTICE Oregon Construction Contractors Law (ORS 701) requires that all businesses that advertise remodeling, repair, home improvements or new construction be registered with the Construction Contractors Board. Registration means contractors have a bond and insurance. Home inspection businesses also must be certified which means the inspector has passed a test and must comply with standard of practice and behavior. For
Construction OREGON Construction Contractors Law requires that all those who advertise remodeling, repair, or construction services be registered with the Construction Contractors Board. Registration means contractors have bonds and insurance on the job site. For your protection, be sure any contractors you hire are registered. Contact the Construction Contractors Board in Salem at 503-378-4621. To verify a contractor’s CCB license through the CCB Consumer Website, visit: hirealicensedcontractor.com
Landscaping
CHAPIN
Landscaping on the Cutting Edge All Season Clean Ups & Maintenance Flowerbeds and pathway design, mowing and edging, trimming/pruning trees & shrubs. Also retaining walls, decks, fences and blackberry & ivy removal. Call Lopez 360-998-7326 lopezrosalio35@gmail. com
Contact Beth Wood with questions about this column: 360-906-4996 or bwood@fvrl.org
The Gift of Books Christmas is coming! In the long tradition of this holiday season, gifts are exchanged with friends and family to share our generosity when we are able, and to show our caring. Some families share only handmade or home-cooked gifts. Some families recycle, or upcycle, or do a white elephant swap. Some draw names, so that each person is only responsible for gifting to one other person, thus preventing bankrupting entire generations; in other families, presents are
give
and some give
or
to
consumables -
• If you’re a hopeless romantic who loves drama, a slow build, a happy ending, and magic - like, spells and stuff: “Wooing the Witch Queen” by Stephanie Burgis (2025)
• If you’re facing aging or loss, or you need a roadmap on how to do so: “Making the Best of What’s Left: When We’re Too Old to Get the Chairs Reupholstered” by Judith Viorst (2025)
• If you love action-packed sci- with snarky dialogue and lots of twists and turns: “Full Speed to a Crash Landing” by Beth Revis (2024)
• If you enjoy books about high stakes real-world games, where the contestants build relationships and learn things about themselves: “The Wishing Game” by Meg Shaffer (2023)
from soup to nuts, as it were. And librarians? Well, we give books. We really can’t help ourselves. It may even be in the ne print (yep, a librarian joke). Best book lists are everywhere right now - all the major newspapers and media outlets have them. I invite and encourage you to look over the bounty that has been published in 2025. I’d like to offer you some books that might be meaningful to a particular someone on your list, books that have made a difference to me. I hope you nd one that you would like to read or gift this season.
• If you crave a heart-pounding mystery with action and a
winter setting that will make you turn up the heat: “Winter Study” by Nevada Barr (2008) - an Anna Pigeon mystery
• If you like real case studies about unusual disorders that you never heard of before: “The Man Who Mistook His Wife for a Hat” by Oliver Sacks (reprint 2021)
• If you like hilarious memoirs about families that are way crazier than yours: “Let’s Pretend This Never Happened” by Jenny Lawson (2013)
• If you love stories about good dogs, but don’t read them often because you can’t take it if the dog dies at the end: “Lessons from Lucy” by Dave Barry (2019)
• If you like historical mysteries with witty banter and welldeveloped characters: “The Right Sort of Man” by Allison Montclair (2019) - a Sparks & Bainbridge mystery
• If you like nontraditional fairy tales with descriptive language and relatable characters: “Nettle & Bone” by T. King sher (2022)
• If you like page-turning techno-thrillers: “Prey” by Michael Crichton (2002) Merry reading - or gifting!
Beth Wood is a senior collection development librarian for Fort Vancouver Regional Libraries.Email her at readingforfun@fvrl.org.
Make homemade pizza the centerpiece of holiday parties
(Family Features) During a season of turkey dinners and festive cocktails, those rich holiday staples may start feeling heavy. When it’s time to reset with a lighter, delicious homemade dinner, try a seasonally appropriate pizza as a simple solution for returning to routine. In fact, regardless of season, pizza remains one of the most popular food choices in the country. According to Current’s “Pizza Wars” survey, which explored preferences and habits among 6,500 respondents in America’s most populous metropolitan areas, the average respondent ordered nearly five pizzas per month. With New Yorkstyle rating as the top preference and pepperoni as the favorite topping, the survey found Americans would have to be paid an average of more than $14 million to give up pizza for life. Additionally, 45% of respondents identified undercooked pizza dough as the worst “pizza crime.” To help avoid that fate, experienced pizzaioli and everyday home cooks alike are turning more often to electric pizza ovens, which deliver restaurant-quality pies without gas or open flames. Energy efficient with capabilities for both indoor and outdoor use, they’re a versatile solution for apartment dwellers and those crafting homemade pizzas any time of year. Building on a mission to reimagine cooking with electric technology that’s smarter, cleaner and more sustainable, the Current Model P Smart Oven Pizza reaches 850 F, perfect for Neapolitanstyle pizzas ready in just 2 minutes, such as this Truffle Mushroom Pizza that’s an ideal fit for complementing all those heavy holiday meals with a lighter weeknight bite. Its design combined with a cordierite 12-inch cooking stone ensures uniform heat for authentic, crispy crusts with multiple cooking modes, giving you the versatility to cook any way you like.
Controlling through a smartphone app offers digital temperature monitoring along with chef-curated recipes or a “pizza build calculator,” which takes the guesswork out of pizza-making – you can personalize a 12-inch pizza with your chosen amount of sauce, cheese, toppings and even dough thickness, and the app will compute a customized time and temperature for perfect cooking.
A thoughtful gift for foodies and gadget fanatics alike, you can bring the joy of pizza to the holiday season with these topping ideas and celebration inspiration: Bring comfort to winter with toppings like sausage, roasted squash, mushrooms, caramelized onions and smoked gouda.
Take advantage of leftovers from holiday gatherings with a pizza that includes brie, cranberry drizzle, roasted turkey and spiced butternut squash.
For a sweet treat, top with hazelnut spread and marshmallows – perfect for capping off holiday parties.
To get loved ones involved, host a pizza party swap where friends and family create pies with favorite seasonal toppings.
Host a DIY pizza bar allowing guests to personalize their own pizza creations, a delicious way to wind down the festivities.
To find more pizza-infused holiday inspiration, visit CurrentBackyard.com.
Truffle Mushroom Pizza Recipe courtesy of Chef Trimmell Hawkins, Current Cream Sauce:
• Oil or butter, for sauteeing
• 1/4 cup onions, small diced
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1/2 cup mushrooms (such as baby portobello, button or shiitake), minced
• 1 tablespoon picked thyme
• 2 cups heavy cream
• 2 tablespoons cornstarch
• 4 tablespoons water
• 2 tablespoons truffle oil
• salt, to taste
• pepper, to taste
Pizza:
• 1 pizza dough
• grated or fresh mozzarella cheese
• mushrooms
• spinach (optional)
• cooked sausage (optional)
To make cream sauce: In saucepan over medium heat, add oil or butter.
Saute onions until translucent then add garlic and mushrooms. Cook until mushrooms release moisture and begin to caramelize.
Stir in picked thyme and cook 1 minute to release oils.
Add heavy cream and bring to gentle simmer. Let it reduce slightly, 5-7 minutes. In small bowl, mix cornstarch and water to make slurry. Slowly whisk into simmering cream sauce until it reaches desired consistency. Remove from heat and stir in truffle oil.
Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
To prepare pizza: Preheat Current
Model P Smart Pizza Oven to 850 F.
While oven heats up, roll dough out to 8-12 inches and add desired amount of cream sauce.
Top with mozzarella, mushrooms, spinach and sausage, as desired. Once oven is hot, cook pizza 2 minutes until bubbly.
New at the Library
FICTION
“When the Fire ies Dance” by Aisha Hassan
“The Mating Game” by Lana Ferguson
“House of Day, House of Night” by Olga Tokarzcuk
NONFICTION
“Next of Kin” by Gabrielle Hamilton
“Dear New York” by Brandon Stanton
“Celebrate: Joyful Baking All Year Round” by Paul Hollywood
CHILDREN
“The Highly Sensitive Rabbit” by Judith Orloff
“World Kitchen Celebrations” by Abigail Wheatley
“The Taylors” by Jen Calonita 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 nd additional listings.
I hate getting sick. Maybe being in Mexico while I’m sick is marginally better than being sick back at home in the U.S. because it is warm here, and I can sit out in the sunshine like a big, grumpy gecko and soak up the sun. I can put on my dark gecko sunglasses and take my scaly old self onto the roof where there are chairs that overlook the city. I can drink fresh-squeezed orange juice, and, when I finish it, some kind person will ask me if I want another one.
“Yes! I want another one!” I want to say. “I want as many of these as it takes until I don’t feel like a gecko anymore!”
I don’t say that. I usually stop at one orange juice because that’s the equivalent of about four oranges, which ought to be enough to frighten off any virus. Although with me they seem especially stubborn. And I know why.
My colds are stubborn because I get them through stubbornness.
I almost always get sick after I’m pushing, pushing, pushing myself to finish something, and, as soon as it appears I have made it, my body says, “OK! I did that for you. Now it’s my turn!” And I am laid low.
I have done this all my adult life. Every major project, every sustained effort, whether it was finals in school or a season of theater or a particularly demanding presentation or, in this case, getting the first draft of a book shipped to my agent (thank you very much, body!), leads me to spend a few days afterward coughing and blowing my nose with a sore throat and a gecko-like attitude.
(I’m not even sure why I’m picking on geckos. For all I know, they are cheerful creatures. But they look irritated and
unattractive, which is how I feel, so I’m sticking with it.)
I have never solved this conundrum. I am honestly unaware that I am pushing myself past my limits. I monitor how much sleep I get, I exercise moderately, I eat healthy things. I do nothing that should cause alarms to go off and warn me I am transforming into a gecko in mere days.
After the project is completed, I feel a rush of euphoria, and I have brilliant ideas I think I should start immediately. I have this feeling, “Well, if I can do that, I can do anything!” Cue the sore throat.
Usually within hours, my glands will swell, and I’ll have trouble swallowing. By the next day, I have to breathe through my mouth, and I’m going through boxes of tissues. You know the drill. There is nothing unique or interesting about my transformation into a gecko. I never become severely ill. I never get anything requiring medical assistance. I just get the most boring variety of knock-me-onmy-butt illness known, and I have to deal with it for a few days—days that last exactly as long as they are going to, no matter how much fresh-squeezed orange juice I drink. And I don’t have a solution. I wish I could end by saying, “Then one day, I discovered what my problem was! All I needed to do was…”
Because if I figured that out, I would share it with everyone. Instead, my best advice to gecko self is: Find a warm spot. Sleep as much as possible. Be extra nice to people. And remember there is nothing so special about me that I don’t deserve to be a gecko from time to time. To see photos,check out CarrieClassonAuthor on Facebook or visit CarrieClasson.com.
Gecko Time
Imagine standing on a wide, quiet plain, named the Plains of San Agustin in New Mexico where the Earth stretches so far in every direction that the sky seems impossibly enormous. A place far from noisy cities, buzzing power lines, and anything else that might disturb the subtle signals from the stars. Mountains shield the area like natural walls, blocking unwanted signals from phones, cars, and satellites. The thin, dry air helps scientists hear the universe speak. This is where the United States has built one of the most remarkable scientific instruments, known as the Very Large Array, or VLA for short.
Very Large Array
by Bertrand Fichou
The VLA is made up of 27 gigantic radio antennas. From a distance, the antennas appear to be tiny white specks dotting the landscape, but as you get closer you realize how enormous they are. Each one is as tall as a 10-story building and as wide as a basketball court, which is about 82 feet across. They sit on railroad tracks arranged in. Pattern like a huge “Y”. These antennas can be rolled along the tracks to tune their sensitivity. At times they are clustered close together and at other times they are spread out over 13 miles.
When humans look at the night sky, we mostly see light waves. What we don’t see are the radio waves that stars, planets, galaxies, and even strange, mysterious objects send out. By listening to these invisible signals, scientists are able to study how stars are born, how galaxies spin and change over time, what black holes are doing in distant regions of space, and even some faint leftovers from the Big Bang. These waves carry ancient stories, traveling for millions or billions of years, helping us learn where we come from and how life became possible on Earth.
The VLA starred in the movie “Contact”, based on Carl Sagan’s novel. In the film, the antennas listen for messages from alien civilizations. With a place this mysterious, conspiracy theories are inevitable. Some people have claimed that the VLA is secretly talking to aliens, the antennas can control the weather or scientists are hiding proof of strange signals. People question what the government is really doing. Is the VLA simply a beautiful scientific tool? Is it really a giant ear listening to the cosmos, one gentle radio wave at a time.
In this quiet stretch of desert, the VLA reminds us that even in a world of noise and hurry, we are capable of extraordinary curiosity. A fantastic place where scientists have built instruments that reach across light-years. A place where we can listen to the echoes of the universe’s birth. We can stand in the sunlight of a New Mexico morning and know that above us, far beyond the beautiful blue sky, space is humming with stories we are still learning to hear.
