News

State Rep. Peter Abbarno, R-Centralia, toured the Cowlitz County Public Utility District (PUD) methane capture project on Thursday.

Abbarno helped secure $4.9 million in this year's supplemental capital budget for Cowlitz County PUD to develop a renewable landfill gas-to-electricity project in partnership with Cowlitz County Public Works Department, according to a news release from Abbarno. 

The project's six internal combustion engines will process landfill methane gas, producing approximately 8 megawatts of electricity for the benefit of Cowlitz PUD's customers.

"This project could help generate clean energy for generations," said Abbarno, ranking member on the House Capital Budget Committee. "This is a win-win for affordable energy, the environment and our local economy. I appreciate the opportunity to tour the project and see our state dollars at work for the benefit of our local communities."

The project will take landfill methane gas — currently being flared into the atmosphere — and convert the heat into renewable electricity.

"Washington must continue to diversify its energy portfolio," added Abbarno, also a member of the House Environment and Energy Committee. "This project is innovative, efficient, and will create greater energy security and reliability in southwest Washington."

In addition to state funds, financing of the project will include federal Inflation Reduction Act tax credits and contributions from Cowlitz County and the PUD.

Reenactors fired a cannon and offered a look at the past during a Living History American Revolution reenactment event at the Veterans Memorial Museum in Chehalis on Saturday, April 27.

The Spirit of ‘76 Living History Association provided the Revolutionary War encampment outside the Veterans Memorial Museum in Chehalis on Saturday and Sunday.

“All ages are invited to observe demonstrations inspired by life in 1776 and to learn of the history, culture and experiences of those who served during the Revolutionary War,” the association wrote prior to the event.

Learn more about the association at https://spiritof76livinghistoryassociation.org/. 

Owners Jeannie Gluck and Laura Duthie opened their new bar, 86’d on Tower, on Saturday, April 27.

86’d on Tower opened at 328 A N. Tower Ave. in downtown Centralia.

“Saddle Bum and Urban Farmgirl Market are introducing 86’d on Tower!” the business wrote in a social media post. “We are a hole-in-the-wall tavern excited to bring you the best in local beer and ciders and our wine selection is amazing! We have a total occupancy of 15 including our outside seating so please get patient and if there is a line go shop and come back. We will be open today until we are slow or run out of alcohol.”

Follow the bar on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61558754426040