Clark County History: Columbia River freezes over By Martin Middlewood for The Columbian
Published: January 24, 2021, 6:00am
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4 Photos Clarence Murray made the iced-over river a landing strip for an American Eagle, 90 horsepower biplane on Jan. 31, 1930. Celebrating their landing, a photographer captured Murray, right, and his son, Glenn, standing on the frozen Columbia River. This was the last time the river froze over. (Columbian files) Photo Gallery
The Columbia River froze at Vancouver on Jan. 26, 1847, according to the Farmers’ Almanac. That winter was among the coldest and corralled the HBMS Modeste in ice. Taking advantage of the time to play, the ship’s and Hudson’s Bay officers crafted makeshift curling stones and turned to a friendly game. The ship’s officers won.
Energy Adviser: Take steps to prevent electrical fires By Clark Public Utilities
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Electricity is so central in our lives that it’s easy to forget just how dangerous it can be.
Every year, about 51,000 home fires are caused by electrical issues, according to the Electrical Safety Foundation International. Nearly a third of those fires occur between November and February, reports the National Fire Protection Association.
Electrical fires might be one of the greatest threats facing the average house. Modern home designs and construction materials, which have increased comfort and efficiency, have also greatly reduced the amount of time a person has to safely escape a house fire. According to Underwriters Laboratories, a person had up to 17 minutes to escape a house fire 30 years ago; today they have three minutes or less.
Energy Adviser: Many ways to give, receive energy aid The Columbian
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In Clark County, households across our communities continue to struggle to make ends meet as they endure ongoing financial hardships brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic.
Understanding the difficulties many in the community are facing, Clark Public Utilities continues to offer financial assistance to customers in need.
“Our customer service representatives speak to people who’ve lost their jobs, or still have their jobs, but had their hours cut, and are facing some very tough choices at home,” said Clark Public Utilities Community Care Manager Chiharu Russell. “Knowing the pandemic would have serious financial consequences, the utility enacted an emergency community response early in the pandemic so we could help customers get the assistance they needed quickly.”