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Salmonberry timber sale AURORA BIGGERS chronicle2@countrymedia.net
In St. Helens, timber is a valuable commodity for the city and the sale of the city-owned timber plots bring in cash to sustain and boost community and economic development. Following a successful Milton Creek Watershed timber sale in February, St. Helens has awarded a bid to sell more timber this year. The St. Helens City Council approved preparing a Douglas fir timber sale of around 92 acres in the Salmonberry property. The Salmonberry property is a sustainably managed tree farm off Pittsburg Road and the cut represents approximately 3.8% of the 2,500 acre property. The city received four bids on the timber price and approved the sale to the highest bidder on May 2.
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Columbia County remained at High Risk as of June 14, under the state’s COVID-19 health and safety category because the county’s vaccination rate remains low, but Oregon is close, at 67.9% as of June 14, to reaching the 70% vaccination rate established to reopen the state’s economy. Gov. Kate Brown announced June 11, that fewer than 100,000 more vaccines are needed to reach the 70% threshold by June 21. That is the date Brown set to fully reopen the state’s economy and discontinue most restrictions and requirements, such as wearing face coverings and following social distancing. “Thanks to the vaccine, our case rate and hospitalizations continue to decline,” Brown said. At least 2.3 million Oregonians had received at least one dose of the vaccine, as of June 11, according to Brown. “We are so close to reopening our economy,” she said.
Climbing prices During the last timber sale, Brent Keller, associate at the citycontracted forest management firm Mason, Bruce & Girard, told city councilors the price for timber is higher now than it has been in the past. “Prices right now are well above the five-year average,” Keller said, and that prices were at an all-time high last summer. If the city chooses to sell 50 acres of timber, he said there could be $625,000 in income. A 2020 timber sale, which spanned 66 acres, netted just under $1.4 million in income. Mills in the small log market are paying competitive timber prices, Keller said, largely due to the strong housing market. Small logs are typically produced into dimension lumber that is used in the construction industry. Most of St. Helens timber is small Douglas fir saw logs. The city councilors and Mayor Rick Scholl agreed that it would be good for the city to take advantage of the competitive market and sell off the city’s excess timber plots. “We have so many big projects going on, and the market seems right,” Scholl said. “I’m not saying cut all the timber and not all the watershed, we’re talking a small fraction of the watershed. He recommended two cuts of about 100 acres, and I would like to go with what he recommended knowing we have projects in mind.” History The Salmonberry plot is an extension of the city’s plan to sell 100 acre plots, and the bids represent the predicted market. As a recovery timber sale, the buyer will be responsible for the total amount of dollars, which is obtained by multiplying the bid price per thousand board feet by the volume recovered, according to the bid announcement. The highest and winning bid was from Interfor US Timber Inc, a
Aurora Biggers / The Chronicle
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‘We’ve been plagued over the last two months by outbreaks at schools — we had over a dozen outbreaks at almost every school in the county, and that has really pushed our numbers up,” Michael Paul explained during the Columbia County Board of Commissioners meeting June 9. “As school comes to a close, and our overall infection rate in the state and the region has declined, I hope that very soon, we’ll move down from high risk.” Another way for the county to move out of high risk, according to Paul, is for the county to reach 65% of the population being vaccinated—with residents 16 years-old and older having one dose of the COVID-19 vaccine. “We’re making progress. We’re growing at about 1%, but we still have a little ways to go,” Paul said. To reach the 65% mark, 20,000 residents will need to be vaccinated with at least one dose by that June 21 re-opening date. “The good news is that if the state reaches the 70% threshold, then the entire sate restrictions will be lifted,” Paul said. “I don’t want us to be left behind, and then be a pocket or a harbor for the coronavirus.
Library open, expands programs
Aurora Biggers / The Chronicle
The St. Helens Library underwent remodels inside in 2020, updating the library’s interior with fresh coats of paint and new fixtures. The outside retains its Gaudí-esque character. AURORA BIGGERS chronicle2@countrymedia.net
The St. Helens library is bucking the curve for most libraries these days. While many libraries were forced to close during the pandemic, and in general are waning from lack of interest and support, the St. Helens library is open and expanding its programs. Challenges
Columbia County’s challenges
Graduate Tyler Roady yells victoriously after receiving his diploma during the SHHS drive-through graduation at the Columbia County Courthouse in St. Helens, on June 11. See more photos at thechronicleonline.com.
For the past year, the St. Helens Library has been offering drive-up window service for patrons looking for a bookish fix. “I think it’s been a real lifeline for people who had to isolate at home,” said Library Director Margaret Jeffries. Per state and county guidelines, inside the library was closed for most of the past year as well, but the library recently re-opened for limited browsing. Currently, the library is open during business hours for 35 people to browse at a time. Each room has its own capacity
labeled as well. Still, the return to a physical library experience is a welcome one, said Jeffries. “There are so many people who are glad to have a chance to browse the books.” But books aren’t the only resource the library offers. The library offers computer services, a space for clubs and groups to gather, online databases, and the occasional guest speaker. “Libraries are, in many cases, a very central part of the community because they offer a place for people to gather. You wind up being not just a source for knowledge and entertainment but a source for engagement. It’s an extension of our ability to take information that we have and synthesize that for people,” Jeffries explained. “It’s a productive thing because we get to learn from each other. I’m looking forward to the day when we can get back to doing more of that.” The library made its annual presentation to the city council in May, presented by the library’s board chair Melisa Gaelrun-Maggi. Maggi explained that the library provided
much more to the community than a room with books. The library also hosts Nature Buddies, a nature activity program for kids, hosts a genealogy conference (which will run for two days in mid-September), and recently renovated one of the rooms into a Library of Things—a STEM geared portion of the library.
Dramatic shift
Community engagement
State Epidemiologist Dr. Dean Sidelinger said that cases in the state are directly in line with the increase in vaccinations. “Daily cases, COVID-19 related hospitalizations and the percentage of people testing positive continue to decline,” Sidelinger said. Over the past week, 1,725 new COVID cases were announced in the state, the lowest number since September. Hospitalizations were down 24% and only 20 new deaths linked to the virus were reported. “The landscape of the virus has shifted dramatically,” Sidelinger said. “The virus is overwhelmingly impacting those who are not vaccinated when those who are vaccinated are safe. Virtually every person infected right now is not fully vaccinated.” Sidelinger said the vaccines are all proven safe and effective, and the best way to beat COVID-19 is to get the vaccine. “In order to decisively defeat
The city councilors praised the library for its efforts to engage the community. “The library didn’t close while others have. It continues to be a powerful incentive for people to come live in our community and invest in our community,” Councilor Birkle said. Councilor President Morten agreed. “What I really appreciate is the cultural hub that the library represents. It’s a wonderful icon for our community and it reaches out to so many aspects of our culture and does that very well.” In addition to offering a drive-up See LIBRARY Page A9
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Everyday Hero Award presented JEREMY C. RUARK jruark@countrymedia.net
Members of the St. Helens Kiwanis Club have presented the club’s Everyday Hero Award to Josh Poling and his staff at St. Helens Market Fresh. Poling and his staff were selected for their efforts during the COVID-19 crisis and their participation in the 2020 Holiday Hope meals program. The Kiwanis Holiday Hope program distributes food baskets to needy families in Columbia County in conjunction with Toy N Joy. COVID-19 restrictions made 2020 particularly difficult according to Kiwanis president Jay Tappan, who said Poling stepped in and coordinated distribution
of the baskets to selected families. Poling is General Manager of Kirby Co., which operates several Market Fresh Stores in Oregon and Washington. Scott Simpson is manager of the St. Helens store. “This (award) goes to everyone because they all helped,” Poling said after receiving the award. “The staff did phenomenal.” The Kiwanis conducted the Everyday Hero Award presentation Monday, June 14. “The St. Helens Kiwanis has restarted the award because we wanted to acknowledge members of our community whose contributions go unrewarded and sometimes unacknowledged,” Kiwanis member
Don Patterson said. Poling and his staff were selected for their efforts during the COVID-19 crisis and their participation in the 2020 Holiday Hope meals program. The Kiwanis Holiday Hope program distributes food baskets to needy families in Columbia County in conjunction with Toy N Joy. COVID-19 restrictions made 2020 particularly difficult, according to Kiwanis President Jay Tappan, who said Poling stepped in and coordinated distribution of the baskets to selected families. St. Helens Kiwanis conducts several fundraising events throughout the year to fund community benefits, such as Holiday Hope.
Courtesy photo
Josh Poling, left, receives the Everyday Hero Award from St. Helens Kiwanis Club President Jay Tappan.
Elks celebrate the American Flag
Aurora Biggers / The Chronicle
The St. Helens Elks Lodge Exalted Ruler Dan Biden reads about the history of Flag Day. AURORA BIGGERS chronicle2@countrymedia.net
The St. Helens Elks Lodge brought their annual tribute to Flag Day inside for a community celebration. Flag Day, June 14, is a celebration of the United States of America’s national flag. The recognition began officially on May 30, 1916, when President Woodrow Wilson issued a presidential proclamation that established a national Flag Day on June 14. Many Americans cele-
brate Flag Day by displaying the Red, White and Blue in front of homes and businesses. The day commemorates the adoption of the Stars and Stripes as the official flag of the United States. A part of the annual celebration, includes ceremony’s performed by local Elks Lodge and Veterans of Foreign Affairs (VFW) chapters. At the St. Helens Elks Lodge Flag Day ceremony, Elks Lodge members gave speeches, including District Vice President David Backlund, Ray Murphy, Exalted
Aurora Biggers / The Chronicle
Attendees donned American and patriotic themed clothes and waved miniature flags, provided by the Elks Lodge.
Ruler Dan Biden, and Chaplain Jennifer Carpenter. The Lodge didn’t hold a Flag Day event in 2020, due to COVID-19 concerns. Though the event usually draws county commissioners, local Fire Departments, and Columbia County residents, no county commissioners or Fire Department representatives were present. The ceremony, held Monday, focused on the history of the American Flag and honoring soldiers from different branches, including asking attendees to sing patriotic songs, pray, and say the
the Elks Lodge disagrees with this view, he said, giving an impassioned speech about the flag’s symbolism of freedom and peace while placed in countries like Korea or Vietnam (referring to the respective wars in both countries, which involved U.S. troops and U.S. involve-
Pledge of Allegiance. Backlund spoke out against views of the flag that consider the flag—and practices that go along with the symbol—imperialistic and nationalistic. “Obviously, I don’t think that,” he told attendees. Historically, there have been split views of the flag and specifically of its presence in U.S. military occupied countries outside of the U.S. Conscientious objectors and pacifists have long denied practices such as saying the pledge of allegiance to the flag. However, Backlund and
$88,259.15 donated to local schools STAFF REPORT chroniclenews@countrymedia.net
InRoads Credit Union has donated $88,259.15 to Scappoose, St. Helens and Rainier High Schools for the coming school year as part of the agency’s Team Up for Schools program. Created by InRoads Credit Union, Team Up for Schools encourages members to use a special, creditunion issued high-schoolthemed debit card for all of their shopping. When they do, the credit union contributes 5¢ for every transaction. The program raised $15,185.10 more for local schools this year over last for an increase of over 20%. InRoads Credit Union President/CEO Brooke Van Vleet has presented donations to each of the three participating school boards and thanked members for their participation in the program. “The Team Up for Schools program has become one of our favorite fundraisers at InRoads,” Van Vleet said. “Our members have helped us raise over
Courtesy photo
InRoads Credit Union President/CEO Brooke Van Vleet, right, and Marketing Coordinator Annette Pixley, left, present $32,026.95 to Scappoose High School Principal Jim Jones, second from left, and Scappoose School District Superintendent Tim Porter, third from left.
$234,000 for local high schools over the past four years. We look forward to continuing the program next year and beyond.” This year, St. Helens High School received
St. Helens School District Surplus Sale Saturday, June 19, 2021 - 8:00 am - 2:00 pm St. Helens High School 2375 Gable Road, St. Helens, OR The St. Helens School District will conduct a warehouse sale on Saturday, June 19 to dispose of district equipment declared as surplus. Items include furniture and equipment and are sold on a first-come, first-serve basis. Items are sold as-is on-site without representations or warranties. The buyer is responsible for moving items prior to the conclusion of the sale. Cash or Cashier Checks only.
Due to social distancing requirements, access to sale may be limited to a certain number of individuals to conform to State guidelines. Facial coverings are required. Columbia County’s trusted local news source
Aurora Biggers / The Chronicle
Local American Heritage Girls demonstrate the evolution of the American flag.
$46,309.60, Scappoose High School received $32,026.95, and Rainier High School received $9,922.60. More information about the Team Up for Schools program can be found online
at inroadscu.org/teamup. InRoads Credit Union (inroadscu.org) Columbia, Clatsop, Cowlitz, Multnomah, and Washington Counties.
ST. HELENS LIQUOR STORE JOIN US FOR A WHISKEY TASTING Hours Mon.- Fri. 10 am 7 pm, Sat. 10 am - 6 pm 420 Columbia Blvd. 503.397.1733
Friday, June 18th 4 pm - 7 pm
ment). Following the celebration, the Lodge provided hotdogs, chips, and sodas to attendees. An optional donation was encouraged. For more information about the Elks Lodge and Flag Day call 503-397-1999.
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Wednesday, June 16, 2021
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Sheriff seeking additional funding, deputies deputy burnout.”
AURORA BIGGERS chronicle2@countrymedia.net
Police Academy, and typically we don’t have to do the four months field training evaluation process program with them,” Pixley explained during the commissioners meeting on Wednesday, June 9. By hiring lateral officers, the Sheriff’s Office would save money on their hires and expedite the process to getting the officers on their own in the field, Pixley said.
24/7 coverage goal
Columbia County Sheriff Brian Pixley is hoping to get his department to 24/7 coverage—a feat only the St. Helens Police Department has accomplished within the county. History In November, Pixley first brought his proposal to the Columbia County Board of Commissioners. “The Sheriff’s Office has been chronically underfunded and understaffed for several, several years. And it’s time that we need to make this change. We need to work together to make this change,” Pixley told the commissioners. “For the residents, what this low funding means is slow response times, even in the most urgent situations, (and) spotty patrol coverage,” Pixley explained. “For the county, this contributes to higher liability for the county, and severe
Within the county, the sheriff’s department is second in highest coverage only to St. Helens, where the department is seeking competitive coverage and rates with the Portland Metro area. During his presentation, Pixley cited the department’s calls for service stats, saying the department averages 1,510 annual calls for service per deputy—nearly double the calls per service received in local city departments. Pixley said he is hoping to get clearance to hire four more deputies, which would bring the Sheriff’s Office from 17.5 hours of coverage a day to 21 or 22 hours of coverage a day. If he hires two deputies in the future, in addition to the four he is proposing to hire now, the Sheriff’s Office would be able to provide 24/7 coverage, Pixley said. Pixley plans to fund the new hires through five year
Safety concerns
Jeremy C. Ruark / The Chronicle
Sheriff Brian Pixley said to ensure 24/7 coverage in the county he needs eight new deputies.
intergovernmental agreements (IGAs) with the Port of Columbia County and Vernonia that would have the two entities paying part of the cost for the deputies. The IGAs are only drafts currently and neither Port of Columbia County or Vernonia have agreed to the IGAs as of yet.
To make the transition swift for the new hires, Pixley plans to hire one new recruit and two to three laterals (already sworn officers and graduates of the police academy). “If we were able to hire a lateral, we would not have to send them to the 16 week
Pixley stressed that increasing the Sheriff’s Office’s coverage is important because there is a large gap in public safety between the county’s cities and unincorporated areas. The Sheriff’s Office covers unincorporated Columbia County and the cities of Clatskanie and Prescott, which is equal to 97.5% of the county’s land but holds less than half of the county’s population. Though the Sheriff’s Office has the equivalent of more than 55 full-time employees, only 12 of those employees are
deputies that work on patrol, according to Pixley. “I understand it is unrealistic to ask for the 26 additional patrol staff this fiscal year, or even over the next couple of years,” Pixley wrote in a prior letter to county commissioners. “Instead, I propose the county add funding to equal two deputies per year until we are at a safer and more sustainable level.” The commissioners are reviewing the sheriff’s request. Following the Wednesday work session, Pixley told The Chronicle eight additional deputies would cost between $710,984 and $1,005,256 per year, plus the one-time costs associated with fully outfitting the new deputies. Pixley said funding would come from the Columbia County general fund and by collaborating with community partners to provide additional funding. Follow this developing story at thechronicleonline.com and in the Wednesday print editions of The Chronicle.
Police Reports The police blotter relates to the public record of incidents as reported by law enforcement agencies. All individuals arrested or charged with a crime are presumed innocent until proven guilty. Information printed is preliminary and subject to change. For specific details about cases listed, contact the appropriate law enforcement agency. Scappoose Police June 9 • Following the report of a traffic complaint, a 47-year-old male, from St. Helens, was taken into custody for DUII. It was reported that the driver almost hit a guard rail and was swerving between the lines of the road while driving on Highway 30. Police conducted the traffic stop near Crown Zellerbach Rd. and from their investigation it was determined that the individual was driving while intoxicated. The man was transported to jail where he was booked and released. June 10 • Police responded to the report of a criminal mischief in progress in the 52000 block of SW 1st St. It was reported that a subject had broken the window of a vehicle and taken items from the inside. Following the investigation, a 37-year old male, from St. Helens, was cited and released for Criminal Mischief II and Unlawful Entry into a Motor Vehicle. He was transported to his residence in St. Helens. • Police were dispatched to the report of a theft at Fred Meyer. It was reported that the suspect was in custody of the loss prevention employees and was cooperating. Following the investigation, a 47-year old female, from Scappoose, was cited and released for Theft II.
owner of the vehicle and had it entered as stolen. The vehicle was later located on SW Old Portland Rpad near SW Dutch Canyon Road. The owner of the vehicle was notified and the vehicle was turned over to them. This case is pending suspect information and identification from the security camera at the location. June 13 • Police responded to the report of a hazard located in the 56000 block of Columbia River Hwy. It was reported that a female was walking in the slow lane of travel near the location. Our officer, knowing there was no other law enforcement officers in the area, headed that way to help. The female was given a ride to her home in Scappoose. Before she was dropped off, it was determined that she had a felony warrant out of Columbia County Circuit Court for UUMV. The female was then taken into custody and transported to the jail without further incident. Oregon State Police June 11 • At about 2:26 p.m. OSP received a report of a deer that was shot at a private residence. The reporting person stated that the neighbor had shot the deer while it was on their property. Troopers responded and located blood in the area that was consistent with the RP’s report. The neighbor was interviewed, he stated that he used an unloaded pellet gun to scare the deer, but denied shooting the deer. Troopers conducted a more thorough search of the property and located a deceased doe blacktail deer. Additional evidence was recovered that further linked the neighbor to the Unlawful Take.
was turned in as found property.
• At about 11 p.m. Troopers were dispatched to Sauvie Island for multiple people fishing on NW Sauvie Island Road near mile post 8.5. Troopers conducted an investigation and all five individuals were interviewed and information was obtained for later follow-up by fish and wildlife troopers.
June 5
June 12
• A distraught and distracted driver admitted to glancing at their cell phone following an argument. The vehicle they were operating drifted off the roadway striking a light pole. The light pole fell causing damage to a parked truck. The driver was cited for careless driving. • A 46-year-old male from of
Kelso was taken into custody on an outstanding warrant.
in as found property. Please call to identify: 503-556-3644.
June 6
June 7
• A 35-year-old male transient was taken into custody on an outstanding warrant. • An officer responded to a neighborhood disturbance involving several parties. The persons were separated and peace was restored. • Two cells phones were turned
• A juvenile was reported as missing. The teen was located and returned to their guardian. See the Columbia County Sheriff’s reports with this blotter at thechronicleonline.com. The St. Helens Police reports were not immediately available.
• At approximately 8:50 a.m. the Oregon State Police responded to a single-vehicle, non-injury crash on Highway 30 near milepost 41. Unit #1, a red GMC Sonoma, was headed eastbound crashed into the embankment on the eastbound shoulder. No property damage reported. Rainier Fire Department responded. Vehicle was towed by Drakes Towing. Driver has not been identified Rainier Police May 29 • A vehicle struck and knocked down a crosswalk sign. The suspect driver fled the area. • A citizen reported that the tires on their vehicle were slashed. • Officers responded to a family disturbance. Peace was restored. May 31 • Some sweet tooth bandits broke into The Snack Shack at the Little League Field. Damages to the building outweighed the stolen loot. • Trespassers were reportedly entering a church. • An officer responded to a disturbance involving spouses. The couple agreed to separate for the night and peace was restored. June 1
June 14
• At 11:54 a.m. OSP received a report from a railroad worker in the Clatskanie area who located an injured juvenile bald eagle June 12 near the tracks. The railroad worker was able to get the • Police took a report of a stolen eagle into his truck and met the vehicle in the 51000 block of trooper. The eagle appeared to Columbia River Highway. The have an injured wing and was victim reported that the vehicle transported to The Audubon that they were3x2D drivingCuts:Layout had been Society in Portland for3:28 examina11-16-11 1 6/22/12 PM stolen when they had run into tion. 11-16-11 3x2D Cuts:Layout 1 6/22/12 3:28 PM Page 1 the store. Police talked to the
• An officer responded to a moped vs. pickup crash on Highway 30 near West 5th Street. The moped operator was transported with non-life- threatening injuries. No citations were issued. June 2 • Several items were taken from
Page 1 parked at the marina. a vehicle • A marijuana smoking device
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Garden Plots: Soil test your garden CHIP BUBL Chronicle Guest Article
Every home gardener should have a “real” soil test done at least once. By real, I mean one sent off to a legitimate laboratory that is set up to handle farm and garden samples. A test will generally cost $40-50. Many gardeners have home test kits, but accuracy is often marginal. To get a representative sample, collect a small scoop of soil to a depth of 6” from 10-15 places in the garden. Put all the scoops together in a bucket and mix them up. One cup of soil from the mix is drawn to be tested. If you have recently fertilized or added wood ashes to your garden, you may want to wait. And don’t sample from an area where a burn pile or some other “unusual” use of that garden area took place. What can you learn from the test? First, you will learn how acidic your soil is. This is indicated by the pH of the soil. A neutral pH is 7.0. Most vegetables thrive in a soil pH range of 6.0 to 7. A more acidic soil can affect the plant-availability of key nutrients, especially phosphorus, potassium, and
magnesium. In addition, an acid soil can affect root growth in some acid sensitive plants. Acidity can be corrected by adding lime to the soil in the prescribed amounts. 100 pounds of lime per 1000 square feet of garden space applied once every three years will keep acidity in check and calcium concentration in your soil up to snuff. But, some plants like blueberries and rhododendrons prefer highly acid conditions and you might need to make particular growing areas more acidic. This is usually done by adding sulfur to the soil. Second, you will see if there are any nutrient deficiencies or excesses of some of the major elements. If you sample in the winter or early spring, you will notice that there isn’t much nitrogen or sulfur in the soil. Both elements are highly leachable and with a normal (unlike this year) 40+ inches of rain, off they go. Herbaceous and woody perennials aren’t so dramatically affected since they can store both nitrogen and sulfur to a certain
degree. Crops like vegetables and some annual flowers will need nitrogen and sulfur added every year. In fact, the most common nutrient deficiency I see in vegetable gardens is a lack of nitrogen. Plants are stunted and are a more yellow-green color than the desired deep green. This is very easy to see on corn, somewhat less clear on other crops. Nitrogen deficiencies can be fairly quick (in a couple of weeks) with “conventional” nitrogen fertilizers but more complicated and
slower with organic fertilizers. From your soil testing company, you will get a set of recommendations based on your test results. The test will allow you to tailor your fertilizer use (whether you use organic or conventional materials) to your garden. Information on how to take a soil sample and where to send it is available from our publications A List of Analytical Laboratories in Oregon catalog.extension. oregonstate.edu/em8677/ html and How to Take a Soil
Sample catalog.extension. oregonstate.edu/ec628. What a soil test can’t tell you Often, plant problems are not soil nutrient issues at all but may be the result of disease, insects, moles and voles, weather, and/or soil drainage in varying combinations. For example, a fatal root disease of arborvitae is accelerated by poor winter soil drainage. Rhododendrons, which get the same root dis-
ease, love high rainfall but also need oxygen rich, high organic matter soil media around their roots. In many of our clay-rich soils (which drain slowly) planting rhododendrons too deep is certain death. The situation is made worse if the topsoil had been stripped from the site before home construction and you mainly have very dense sub-soil clay for your landscape and garden areas. Planting rhodies on a wide soil berm enriched with organic matter and covered with an organic mulch
improves aeration while still holding adequate moisture around the roots. This allows them do well in an otherwise unforgiving soil. If you get a soil test, there is one hint about the relative amounts of sand, silt, and clay in your soil. Look at the pH number and then look at the SMP Buffer pH number. The bigger the difference, the better drained your soil is. The smaller the change, the more clay there is in the soil. An exception to this indicator are the highly organic soils that you can find in the Clatskanie dike areas. You can do your own soil content assay by putting a cup of soil in a mason jar, shake it vigorously, and then let it sit for 48 hours. Sand will settle first, then silt, then clay and organic matter. You can measure the layers and arrive at a percentage of sand, silt, clay and organic matter in your soil.
State University Extension office in St. Helens at 503 397-3462 or at chip.bubl@ oregonstate.edu. Free newsletter The Oregon State University Extension office in Columbia County publishes a monthly newsletter on gardening and farming topics (called County Living) written/edited by yours truly. All you need to do is ask for it and it will be mailed or emailed to you. Call 503397-3462 to be put on the list. Alternatively, you can find it on the web at extension.oregonstate.edu/columbia/ and click on newsletters. Many Extension publications available online Are you putting up salsa, saving seeds, or thinking about planting grapes? OSU has a large number of its publications available for free download. Just go to catalog.extension.oregonstate.edu. Click on publications and start exploring. The Extension Service offers its programs and materials equally to all people. Contact information for the Extension office
Have questions? If you have questions on any of these topics or other home garden and/ or farm questions, please contact Chip Bubl, Oregon
Oregon State University Extension Service – Columbia County • Address: 505 N. Columbia River Highway St. Helens, OR 97051 • Phone: 503-397-3462 • Email: chip.bubl@ oregonstate.edu
Voices of the Community One billion people We keep being told, in articles that appear on the Internet, that the birth rates of industrial nations are trending toward zero growth. However, after reaching an estimated seven billion people during October, 2011, the planet will have added another billion people to its body of inhabitants before the next year is out. (See the World Population Clock at the Worldometers web site.) That is an additional one billion people in under twelve years. If that is the case, then the rate of growth of another billion inhabitants every twelveand-a-half years, since 1986, is increasing in speed - and not slowing down yet. Someone, somewhere, is derelict in their responsibility to bring this monster under control. Defund the United Nations population studies sector. A Mayan woman with
10 children, who resides in Guatemala, is letting those of her children who want to flee poverty there travel to America, while she remains behind. I have to agree with the late Pope John Paul II that there is a need for parental responsibility. The violence witnessed on this planet is often to be linked to this causation of the unsustainable increase in mankind. My guess is that John Paul II understood that parental responsibility trumped his church’s ban on artificial birth control, yet was shackled by an irrational conservative arm of the Catholic Church. What harm has been wrought by that arm. David Doerr Rainier
Take a hard look On June 16th the city is scheduled to review a price
increase from Hudson Garbage. I appreciate the service Hudson has provided over the years. They have never missed a service, replaced a broken garbage can without question, and have always communicated delays due to snow on the ground. During the discussion of increased prices, I encourage the city leaders to take a hard look at the services needed in our community, specifically the need for curb side glass recycling. Taking glass to Hudson is not possible for everyone. For those living is small homes or in apartments, storing glass containers may not be ideal, and for many the hassle is not worth it and glass goes in the garbage. As the city continues to grow and more families make Columbia County home, we need to take a hard look at how we can reduce our impact to the planet. Nicolle Prehn St. Helens
Let us know what YOU think EMAIL YOUR LETTERS TO: CHRONICLENEWS@COUNTRYMEDIA.NET
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reserve the right to exclude lists of people, organizations and businesses. Letters received after noon on Friday may not be in time for the following Wednesday’s paper. To verify authenticity, all letters must be signed and include your address and daytime phone number. We won’t print your street address or phone number (just your city of residence). Submissions may be emailed to chroniclenews@countrymedia.net, sent via mail, or dropped off at the office. Letters policy: This newspaper’s letters to the editor are limited to a maximum of 250 words and will be edited for grammar,
spelling and blatant inaccuracies. Unsubstantiated or irresponsible allegations, or personal attacks on any individual, will not be published. Letters containing details presented as facts rather than opinions must include their sources. Writers are limited to one published letter per month. All submissions must include the author’s full name, local street address and telephone number (only the name and city of residence will be published). By submitting a letter, writers also grant permission for them to be posted online. Opinions expressed on this page are the writer’s alone and do not represent the opinion of the newspaper or its parent company, Country Media, Inc.
Wednesday, June 16, 2021
A5
www.thechronicleonline.com
Declaring Juneteenth Day as a state holiday STAFF REPORT chroniclenews@countrymedia.net
Oregon is moving closer to marking June 19 as Juneteenth Day, an official state holiday. The Oregon Senate has passed House Bill 2168, legislation establishing the official state holiday every June 19 beginning in 2022. The holiday will serve to honor the freedom of enslaved people in the United States, acknowledge Oregon’s racist roots and celebrate the contributions of Black Americans in the face of inequity and systemic oppression.
“The Emancipation Proclamation news arrived in waves to the enslaved Black women and men of my family,” Sen. Lew Frederick, a Portland Democrat who carried House Bill 2168. “Family stories say, ‘joy was the first emotion, and next skepticism’. However, hope stood at the center of a possible future for my family and so many families. That hope continues to this day. So does the skepticism. The two can dance together, and in that dance, we can progress, and we can amplify hope.” On June 19, 1865, Union General Gordon Granger rode
into Galveston, Texas and issued General Order Number 3, which required the immediate freedom of more than 250,000 enslaved African Americans in Texas. Union troops marched throughout Galveston to spread the word that all slaves were free. Juneteenth is also known as Emancipation Day, Jubilee Day and Freedom Day. In Oregon, the Peoples family are well known for their efforts to ensure Juneteenth is observed. “Miss Clara Peoples is foundational to Oregon, her family is the reason we have unofficially observed this
holiday and the Peoples have remained central in framing the expectation of a more equitable tomorrow,” Frederick said. “Juneteenth is not the date all slaves were freed. Juneteenth is not the date that Black Americans, or Black Oregonians, were guaranteed comfort, relief or safety,” Frederick said. “Also, Juneteenth was a step forward and a marker of hope, one we must continue to build upon. This official holiday will recognize that the people of Oregon, despite our past, can take the veil of ignorance away, and each year choose to have hope
– on Juneteenth and every day thereafter.” Frederick said with House Bill 2168, Oregonians can learn from another time. “We can change the future now, in real time,” he said. “We can work towards equality – even without a declaration or official holiday. We must. Celebrating Juneteenth will help each of us remember all that we can and must do to ensure a more just future.” House Bill 2168 passed the Oregon Senate unanimously, it was scheduled next to be reviewed the House of Representatives.
Metro Creative Connection / The Chronicle
Pandemic health and safety requirements, such as wearing face coverings at most locations, will be discontinued once Oregon reaches 70% vaccination of adults.
COVID-19 From Page A1
the virus and avoid a future outbreak, we must get more people vaccinated,” he said. “There’s no substitute for the vaccine.” Sidelinger said modeling in Oregon continues to show decreasing cases, hospitalizations and deaths. On the current trend, cases will fall to around 100 a day with only five new hospitalizations. Brown echoed that sentiment, saying those who have taken the vaccine deserve praise. More work to do “We still have more work to do to ensure all Oregonians are safe from COVID-19,” Brown said. “Thank you to everyone who’s gotten the vaccine. Thank you to all Oregonians who are making it easier for their employees to get vaccinated. Thank you to everyone who’s taken the time to drive a family member or friend to an appointment or had a conversation with a friend who’s had a question about vaccines. All these efforts contribute to our success as a state.” Brown also reminded Oregon residents that getting the vaccine is free, and every Oregonian who gets at least one dose will be eligible to win $1 million. On June 25, the state will announce winners of the vaccine awards, with one person winning $1 million and one person from every county winning $10,000. Brown said one of her big worries right now is coming changes to the eviction moratorium in the state. A new state law does not allow Brown to extend the moratorium, which ends June 30. “This means renters must pay their July rent or the landlord can evict them for nonpayment,” Brown said. “To the thousands of Oregonians who lost jobs or fell behind on their rent during the pandemic, please apply today for rental assistance to pay your July rent. Under current law, you cannot be evicted until next year for rent owed from April 2020 to June 2021. Rental assistance programs can help you with past rent.” Brown encouraged those struggling with rent to apply at oregonrentalassistance.org to get a share of the federal money sent to the state to help just those people. Brown also called on landlords in the state to give renters time to pay, especially if they have applied for rental assistance. “We have made it through the pandemic by watching out for one another,” Brown said. “We have seen Oregon’s spirit time and again.” Sidelinger closed the meeting by again encouraging residents to get vaccinated. He emphasized the vaccine is safe and effective. The key to defeating COVID is simple, the vaccines. “We are finally gaining the upper hand against the virus,” Sidelinger said. For more information about vaccinations, contact Columbia County Public Health at 503-397-7247.
www.thechronicleonline.com
A6
Classifieds
Wednesday, June 16, 2021
Listings are updated daily at thechronicleonline.com
105
301
502
502
502
702
690
804
Cleaning Services
Health & Nutrition
Help Wanted
Help Wanted
Help Wanted
Garage Sales
Wanted Autos
Apts Unfurnished
Cans and Bottles If you have cans and bottles that you would like to get rid of call Steve the Can Man at 971-813-9257. Will pick up.
Alcoholics Anonymous Info-line, (503) 366-0667 www.pdxaa.org
LOOKING FOR A GREAT PART-TIME JOB? Become a School Bus Driver for Durham School Services. No Experience necessary. Paid training. Competitive wages. Paid Holidays. Medical, Dental, Vision & 401K Stop by and complete an application or online at: www. Durhamschoolser vices.com/careers Job Code :201181 We’re loctated at: 540 Milton Way, St. Helens, Or. 503-397-9072
maintenance schedule and record keeping. Skills required for this position are, but not limited to; Strong excel and Word, data entry, attention to detail, customer service and the ability to work independently. The position is available approximately July 1. Please send your resume to: Rainier Cemetery District, PO Box 307, Clatskanie, OR 97016. You can also email your resume to warren.cyndi@ yahoo.com. If you have any questions, please contact Cyndi at 208-249-7144. Resumes will be accepted until 3:00pm on Monday, June 21, 2021.
The City of St. Helens is hiring PART-TIME SUMMER WORKERS Multiple Temporary Positions. See website for details www.sthelens oregon.gov/jobs. $15.00 per hour. Open until filled. Equal Opportunity Employer.
Garage Sale at 55998 Columbia River Hwy, Warren, OR 97053. 6/17, 6/18 & 6/19 from 94. No earlies. Canning jars, household goods, collectibles, tools, , clothing (large4XL), some car parts and more.
Garage sale This Friday and Saturday (6/18 and 19) from 10-4 at 56595 Cascade View Drive in Warren (up Berg Rd). Car parts, household goods, glassware, snowboards, bike helmets and bike.
1 bedroom apartment in Scappoose Rent $1080/month. Garbage included. References requested. For application please email ohmequity service@gmail. com or call with questions to 503-369-5087.
Paul’s Tree Service Inc. No bush too small, no tree to tall- Call Paul! Specialized in danger trees, take downs, storm clean-up. Time to prune- pruning Lace Leafed Maples & ornamental shrubberies, chipping, senior or veterans discount, free estimates. CCB# 217173 Lic., Bonded & Insured. 503-440-0723 or 503-543-8274 Walts Seasonal outdoor market Tues - Sat 106pm, Sun 10- 4pm, closed Mon. Fresh Produce, Local Flowers, Pies, Baked goods, Salsas, Jams, Garden Baskets and more. Located in big tents next to Wayne Martin Flooring in St. Helens.
312
Events
Train show The Longview, Kelso & Rainier Model RR Club is hosting a Train Show and Swap Meet on Sept. 11 in the SW corner of the 3 Rivers Mall (I-5, exit 39) in Kelso from 10-3 p.m. $5 admission, kids under 12 are free. 200 vendor booths, including on site food vendors. On site model RR open w/ both HO & O gage trains running.
502
Help Wanted
Communicable Disease Intervention Specialist Columbia County, OR EOE Deadline 6/29/2021 Apply at ColumbiaCounty OR.gov
Parks Maintenance Worker 1 Columbia County, OR EOE Deadline 6/25/2021 Apply at ColumbiaCounty OR.gov Part-Time Office Manager The Rainier Cemetery District is looking for a PartTime Office Manager (approximately 25-30 hours per week). Must be at least 21 years of age and able to pass a background check. Duties are, but not limited to; answering phones, meeting with the public, manage
The City of St. Helens is hiring for RECREATION PROGRAM SPECIALISTS Temporary Fulltime openings. See website for details: w w w. s t h e l e n s oregon.gov/jobs. Open until filled. Equal opportunity employer.
612
Pick-Ups
For sale Aluminum canopy for Ranger sized pick up. Good shape. 503-3975165, ask for Ron.
Garage Sale at 1621 Tualatin St., St. Helens. Fri 6/18 & Sat 6/19 from 9-4. Come take a look at all there is to see.
The Chronicle
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690
Wanted Autos
Ca$h 4 Car$
$Drake’s Towing is now paying TOP Cash$ 4 Junk Cars!!! We buy junk/broken cars, trucks, vans, heavy equip. Top $$ paid to $100-$400. We are LOCAL, serving Columbia County. Same day service.
503-438-6099
ASPHALT PAVING Offering Quality Asphalt Paving Services to Columbia County and surrounding areas.
FREE Estimates
VIEW OUR CURRENT RENTAL PROPERTIES AT:
www.therentalcenter.net
River City & Rentals Northwest 503-543-4440 Phone
503-543-7929 Fax
Kristie Flanagan, Licensed Property Manager 51891 Old Portland Road, Suite “A”, Scappoose OR 97056 (next to the scappoose totem pole)
COMMERCIAL • RESIDENTIAL • INDUSTRIAL Driveways • Roadways • Subdivisions • Parking Lots • City, County, State Specification Products
Call Jim today at
(503) 509-8657
Quality Workmanship At Affordable Prices
Columbia County
BUSINESS & SERVICE DIRECTORY
www.thechronicleonline.com
Waterman Garage Doors
CALL TODAY! UP TO 75% OFF!
CCB#204858
SALES, SERVICE INSTALLATION
Scott Waterman Owner
503.819.6715
Make your home your sanctuary.
BLINDS & DRAPES Blinds 4 You Direct
St. Helens, OR 97051
YOUR AD HERE
Blinds, tile, draperies, countertops, flooring and more • FREE Measuring • FREE Consultation • FREE In Home Service
Advertise your business in the Business & Service Directory. Call 503-397-0116 for more information
blinds4youdirect.com (971) 719-7119
Get your ad in the paper and reach out to potential customers. Call 503-397-0116 to place your ad in the newspaper and online.
Local news, every day, online. Keep up to date on local stories, events, and ads by visiting thechronicleonline.com.
The Chronicle 503-397-0116 1805 Columbia Blvd. St. Helens, OR 97051 Columbia County’s trusted local news source
• Tile flooring repair • Repair services available • Best Prices
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Wednesday, June 16, 2021
A7
Public Notices PROTECTING YOUR RIGHT TO KNOW
CH21-1726
IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE STATE OF OREGON FOR THE COUNTY OF COLUMBIA PROBATE DEPARTMENT In the Matter of the Estate of LESLIE RAY CLARK, Deceased. CASE NO: 21PB03754 NOTICE TO INTERESTED PERSONS NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that TAMERA CLARK has been appointed Personal Representative in the referenced matter. All persons having claims against the
Estate are required to present them, with proper vouchers, within four (4) months after the date of first publication of this Notice. Any/all claims should be provided to the Personal Representative, in care of FRANK C. ROTE, III, Attorney at Law, 1692 NE Lynda Lane, Suite C, Grants Pass, Oregon 97256,
541-479-2678, or such claims may be barred. All persons whose rights may be affected by the proceedings may obtain additional information from the records of the Court or from FRANK C. ROTE, III, Attorney for the Personal Representative. Frank C. Rote, III, OSBN 893898.
CH21-1729
IN THE CIRUIT COURT OF THE STATE OF OREGON FOR THE COUNTY OF COLUMBIA In the Matter of the Estate of: GREGORY LEE ALLEN, Deceased. CASE NO. 21PB03488 NOTICE TO INTERESTED PERSONS NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that Ryan J. Allen has been appointed personal representative. All persons having claims against the
estate are required to present them, with vouchers attached, to Ryan J. Allen, 3200 5th Street, Columbia City, Oregon 97018, personal representative of the Estate of GREGORY LEE ALLEN, within four months after the date of first publication of this notice, or the claims may be barred. All
persons whose rights may be affected by the proceedings may obtain additional information from the records of the court, the personal representative, or the lawyer for the personal representative, David B. Herr, 33608 E. Columbia Avenue, Suite 110, Scappoose, Oregon 97056.
CH21-1735
CH21-1736
BEFORE THE BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS FOR COLUMBIA COUNTY, OREGON
City Council Public Forum
St. Helens Riverwalk Project Wednesday, June 16, 2021, 6:00 PM
The City Council of St. Helens, Oregon, will hold a Public Forum on June 16, 2021, at 6:00 p.m. The purpose of this Public Forum is to review the Riverfront Redevelopment: 1st Street / Strand Street Alignment Alternatives. The meeting will be held electronically via Zoom and will also broadcast live on the City’s YouTube channel. An agenda with meeting details will be available on the City’s website at www.sthelensoregon.gov/meetings after June 11.
Free): 1-866-899-4679 Access Code: 357-054-141 New to GoToMeeting? Get the app now and be ready when your first meeting starts: https://global. gotomeeting. com/install/870493693 2. The purpose of the hearing is to consider amendments to the Columbia County Zoning Ordinance, Section 1100, to comply with the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP). 3. The proposed amendments will become available for viewing at least seven days prior to the hearing. 4. The proposed amendments, staff report, applicable criteria, application, and comments on this matter submitted to the Board will be available for inspection at: https://www.columbiacountyor.gov/departments/BoardofCommissionersOffice/ Hearings or copies of these
CH21-1724
CH21-1591
NOTICE OF BOARD MEETING The Greater St. Helens Aquatic District board meeting will be held on June 21, 2021 at 5:00 pm at Eisenschmidt Pool, 1070 Eisen-
In the Matter of Amending the Columbia County Zoning Ordinance, Section 1100, Flood Hazard Overlay Zone, to comply with the National Flood Insurance Program Regulations NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING (PUBLTCATTON) TO ALL INTERESTED PERSONS 1. Notice is hereby given that the Board of County Commissioners will hold a public hearing on this matter on June 30, 2021, Wednesday, at or after 10:00 a.m., in a virtually public meeting, held from the Columbia County Courthouse, located at 230 Strand Street, St. Helens, Oregon. Interested parties may attend the virtual meeting room by: Joining from a computer, tablet or smartphone at: https:// global. gotomeeting.com/ join/357054141 Joining by phone at: United States (Toll
schmidt Lane, St. Helens. Due to COVID restrictions, please call 503-397-2283 prior to attending the meeting.
NOTICE OF WORKSHOP June 24th, 2021 fair board Workshop at 6:30PM in the pavilion at 58892 Saulser Road St. Helens, OR 97051.
Virtual call-in Number: 1 866 899 4679 access code: 597922-085.
materials may be obtained at a reasonable cost upon request at the Board of County Commissioners’ Office, Room 338, 230 Strand Street, St. Helens, Oregon 97051. Additional information about the proposed amendments may be obtained from Jacyn Normine at (503) 397-4322 ext. 8400. 5. Comments may be submitted to Board of County Commissioners’ Office, Room 338, 230 Strand Street, St. Helens, Oregon 97051 or by email to Jacyn Normine jacyn.normine@columbiacountyor.gov prior to the hearing. 6. Failure to raise an issue or failure to provide statements or evidence sufficient to afford the Board an opportunity to respond to the issue precludes appeal to LUBA based on that issue. 7. Failure of the applicant to raise constitutional or other
issues relating to proposed conditions of approval with sufficient specificity to allow the Board to respond to the issue precludes an action for damages in circuit court. 8. Columbia County does not discriminate on the basis of disability, and will provide reasonable accommodations in accordance with the County’s ADA Policy. To request accommodations or to review the County’s ADA Policy, please contact the Board of Commissioners office at (503) 397-4322. 9. The hearing will be held according to the procedures established in the Columbia County Zoning Ordinance. DATED this 3rd day of June 2021. BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS FOR COLUMBIA COUNTY, OREGON By Jacyn Normine, Board Office Administrator
Public Notice deadline is Fridays by noon. Late submissions are not guaranteed to make it into the paper.
Crossword Puzzle
STATEPOINT CROSSWORD THEME: U.S. PRESIDENTS ACROSS
1. Newton’s first name 6. Part of smog 9. Hissy fit 13. Human trunk 14. Form of “to be” 15. Illegal booze 16. Editorial changes 17. Crematorium jar 18. #56 Down, alt. sp. 19. *One of six Presidents named James 21. *First President previously divorced 23. Civil War’s Johnny 24. Manage without help 25. Military procedures 28. Cone-shaped quarters 30. MLB bench 35. Cowboy’s necktie 37. A whole lot 39. *Whig, e.g. 40. Resembling wings 41. Nightly necessity 43. Experience emotion 44. Large ray 46. Glacier’s deposit 47. “Watch out!” on a golf course 48. Traditional sock pattern 50. Reduced Instruction Set Computer 52. Knight’s title 53. Bypass 55. Foot digit 57. *President Chester ____
60. *He signed legislation to create Medicare 64. Fauna, Merryweather and ____, fairy godmothers 65. Expert 67. Convex molding 68. Bumpkins 69. CafÈ alternative 70. Car ways 71. Trans-Siberian Railroad city 72. Piercing part 73. Slightly drunk
DOWN
1. Any thing 2. *Trump had button on desk to order his favorite one 3. Desertlike 4. Up and about 5. Coddle 6. Half-man, half-goat 7. Legendary NHLer 8. Tragedy, or comedy, or satire 9. Cheap form of payment? 10. Before Scotia 11. Clickable picture 12. Olden day “your” 15. Be in charge, two words 20. Newspaper notices 22. What all of #70 Across do
24. Painting or poetry 25. *He beat McCain and Romney 26. Kind of cap 27. Colloquialisms 29. *First “dark horse” 31. Gamecock’s spur 32. Dessert sandwiches 33. Wombs 34. *#29 Down predecessor 36. Creative 38. 18-wheeler 42. Green pasta sauce 45. Big Island greetings 49. Australian flightless bird 51. Group of people, often in research 54. Extremely angry 56. Concluding stanza in poetry 57. *G. W. Bush to Yale, e.g. 58. Schneider and Lowe, e.g. 59. Major bike maker 60. Audience’s rejection 61. Sold in bars 62. Auto pioneer 63. Like a busybody 64. Back, to a pendulum 66. Latin dance three-step move, once
Solution to crossword in next week’s issue of The Chronicle. Columbia County’s trusted local news source
A8
Wednesday, June 16, 2021
www.thechronicleonline.com
Pyramid scheme alert recruit new investors – no goods or services are being sold • No written agreements and the promoters boast about high earnings of a few people
Courtesy photo
The Death Row gifting club was first spotted in operating in Oregon in 2020. It advertised on social media and in online forums as a community wealth share group. More than 20 Oregonians lost their initial $1,400 investments. STAFF REPORT chroniclenews@countrymedia.net
The pyramid scheme has a new look and the Oregon Division of Financial Regulation is warning consumers to steer clear. Gifting clubs, such as Death Row, are illegal pyramid schemes that are scamming several Oregonians, according to a division release. The Death Row gifting club, not associated with Death Row Records, was operating in Oregon last year. It advertised on social media and in online forums as a community wealth share group. More than 20 Oregonians lost their initial $1,400 investments. The Death Row gifting scheme promised financial returns of at least $9,000. The division was alerted to the scheme when an Oregonian reported not receiving anything in return for their $1,400 investment. The investment was not registered with the division and no one was licensed to sell investments in Death Row. Victims invested their money using a cloud-based payment platform and communicated with others about the investment during online forums for the Death Row
program. The division is still investigating the Death Row gift club. Anyone who has information about the scheme or was a victim of it are asked to contact the Division of Financial Regulation Advocacy team at 888-877-4894 (toll-free). “If someone invites you to join a gifting club, just say no to their high-pressure tactics and stories of high earnings,” Oregon Division of Financial Regulation Administrator TK Keen said. “The simple reality is that only a few people profit from these schemes at the expense of everyone else who ultimately lose their investments.” Gifting club schemes are similar to pyramid schemes because no new money is created. Members of the scheme encourage friends, family, and co-workers to give gifts of cash to higher ranking members. The only way for a person to recover the initial investment is to bring new members into the scheme. The division’s tips to spot an illegal gifting scheme • Promises of cash, gifts, or electronic payments via mail, email, or social media • The primary focus is to
Oregonians are encouraged to contact the Division of Financial Regulation’s consumer advocacy team if they spot a gifting scheme or believe they are a victim of one. Advocates can be reached at 888-877-4894 (toll-free), email dfr.financialserviceshelp@oregon. gov, or by visiting dfr.oregon. gov. The division warns • Do not become a victim of an illegal gifting scheme • Be skeptical about investment opportunities • Avoid giving your personal information to strangers • And remember – if it seems too good to be true, it probably is For more information about investments and protecting yourself from investment fraud, visit the division’s avoid investment fraud page. About DCBS The Department of Consumer and Business Services is Oregon’s largest business regulatory and consumer protection agency. For more information, visit www.dcbs. oregon.gov. About Oregon DFR The Division of Financial Regulation is part of the Department of Consumer and Business Services, Oregon’s largest business regulatory and consumer protection agency. Visit www.dcbs. oregon.gov and dfr.oregon. gov/Pages/index.aspx
Metro Creative Connection / The Chronicle
Columbia County will share in more than $19 million in emergency federal housing funds through the American Rescue Plan Act.
Columbia County to receive a share of $19m for housing STAFF REPORT chroniclenews@countrymedia.net
U.S. Senators Ron Wyden and Jeff Merkley have announced that 28 counties, including Columbia County, and two cities in Oregon will receive more than $19 million in emergency housing vouchers through the American Rescue Plan Act. Columbia County’s share of the funding comes through the Northwest Housing Authority, which is slated to receive $752,652. “Every single Oregonian deserves an affordable and accessible place to call home,” Wyden said. “The economic fallout from the global pandemic has worsened a statewide housing shortage and affordability crisis. These vouchers give
local housing authorities critical tools to provide Oregonians with the stability they need to build a life where they can thrive.” “It’s impossible to thrive without a safe and affordable roof over your head,” Merkley said. “I’ve been pushing for strong responses to meet the housing crisis so many are families are facing, and that have become even more dire during the pandemic, and these grants are a good piece of the solution. I will continue to do all I can to secure the resources we need to weather this pandemic and make sure all of Oregon’s families have a home they can afford.” The emergency housing vouchers are provided to assist individuals and families who are recently homeless, at
risk of homelessness, experiencing long-term homelessness, or fleeing (or attempting to flee) intimate partner violence, sexual assault, stalking, or human trafficking, according to a release from Merkley and Wyden. The American Rescue Plan Act that Wyden and Merkley both voted to support this year allocated emergency housing vouchers to public housing authorities on the basis of population, need, and geographic diversity. U.S. Department of Housing & Urban Development (HUD) issued vouchers to 626 public housing authorities, for a grand total of $1.14 billion in grants. See the Oregon recipients list attached to this story at thechronicleonline.com.
Windermere’s Community Service Day
Garbage rate increase proposal JEREMY C. RUARK jruark@countrymedia.net
During its regular afternoon work session Wednesday, June 16, the St. Helens City Council is set to review a rate increase from Hudson Garbage. In a letter from Hudson Garbage to St. Helens City Administrator John Walsh, Hudson’s District Manager Josh Brown outlined the request. “With so much uncertainty a year ago, we chose not to request a rate adjustment,” Brown stated in the letter. “After two years, we not only face an increase in the County disposal-tipping fee, but also significant wage
pressure and increases in costs throughout our supply chain.” Brown said Columbia County has approved a 2.6% rate increase at the Columbia County Transfer Station, effective July 1. “We are requesting an overall increase of 2.6% to encompass the disposal increase and the rising wage and operation costs,” Brown said.
See the breakdown of the rate increase attached to this story at thechronicleonline. com. The city council is also set to receive new timeline details of the city’s effort to build a public safety facility, which would replace the existing St. Helens Police station. The multi-million dollar project has stirred community discussion over a proposed utility fee to help fund the project. At 6 p.m. the council was scheduled to hear from consultants concerning the city’s riverfront development and alignment alternatives for S. 1st and Strand Streets. Follow developments at thechronicleonline.com.
Search and rescue missions rising STAFF REPORT chroniclenews@countrymedia.net
The number of search and rescue missions in Oregon has steadily increased since the COVID-19 pandemic began, according to the Oregon Office of Emergency Management (OEM). Oregon Search and Rescue Coordinator Scott Lucas said the search and rescue teams, particularly in rural counties, have seen a significant increase in rescue missions, including those requiring advanced search and rescue equipment. “I can’t stress enough how important it is for people to make a plan before heading out to explore the outdoors,” Lucas aid. “Know your limits and make sure to carry the proper equipment and supplies – even if you’re only planning to be out for a few hours.” In Wallowa County alone, there were two search and rescue missions in 2017, while 2020 saw 40 missions in the same area during the pandemic. According to Lucas, they are also seeing an upsurge in inexperienced people visiting more remote areas. With more and more people seeking solace or adventure in the outdoors, popular parks and outdoor recreation areas are becoming overcrowded, leading some to venture into less populated but unfamiliar terrain.
Courtesy photo
A rescue above Shale Lake in Linn County in Aug 2020.
“We are seeing rescues in remote areas where folks are heading out based on recommendations they find online or from a friend, but they aren’t prepared for the reality of the landscape,” Lucas said. “Oregon is beautiful but can be dangerous, especially for those who are new to outdoor recreation.” More missions are requiring mountain rescues and air assets rather than volunteer teams, because people are more often putting themselves in life-threating situations, according to Lucas. Many of these rescues could have been avoided with proper planning and realistic expectations. Knowing the best route, weather conditions, fire restrictions, and bringing extra supplies like water and snacks can make all the difference.
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Lucas said due to impacts from last year’s historic wildfire season and ongoing recovery operations, there are additional hazards to consider; people should be careful and steer clear of closed areas. There are many resources to help people know before they go. Oregon’s Natural and Cultural Resources Recovery Task Force has a recreation site status map to help the public plan by checking the status of popular recreation areas. Additionally, upto-date road conditions can be found at TripCheck.com or by calling 5-1-1. To help reduce the risk of wildfires, the public should know and follow local fire restrictions. Lucas and OEM is urging the public to stay safe with advance planning and preparation before their next outdoor adventure. OEM’s Search and Rescue Program supports the broad spectrum of search and rescue operations throughout the state. That mission includes coordinating activities of state and federal agencies involved in search and rescue, including the Oregon State Sheriffs’ Association and other partners, and providing on-scene search and rescue efforts when requested. There is no charge for search and rescue calls. In case of emergencies, dial 9-1-1; most Oregon counties also accept texts to 9-1-1.
Courtesy photo
Windermere St. Helens Real Estate brokers shopping for supplies to donate to theTurning Point Community Service Center/Clatskanie Area Food Pantry. From left to right is Turning Point Director Kelly Miller, Windermere Real Estate represenatives George Hafeman and Michelle Langdon. JEREMY C. RUARK jruark@countrymedia.net
Food panties in Clatskanie, Rainier and St. Helens are using new donations to help serve local families. Windermere St. Helens Real Estate has donated $187 in supplies plus a $100 donation for emergency supplies to the Clatskanie Area Food Pantry. Windermere has also donated $100 to the Columbia Pacific Food Bank as part of the company’s 37th annual Community Service Day, June 11. Windermere’s St. Helens designated broker George Hafeman Jr. said Windermere’s Annual Community
Service Day was established in 1984. “Every year on a Friday in June, brokers, managers, owners, and staff from Windermere’s 300 offices across the Western United States take the day off from selling houses to devote their workday to making positive changes in the neighborhoods they serve,” he said, adding that Community Service Day projects range from restocking food pantries and making donations for emergency supplies as Windermere St. Helens Real Estate did for the Turning Point Community Service Center/ Clatskanie Area Food Bank in 2021.
Windermere agents have also helped clean up Fairview Cemetery in Scappoose and restocked the Columbia Pacific Food Bank in St. Helens. “We’re involved in helping the community because these are our neighbors,” Hafeman Jr. said. “It’s a pretty simple thing that makes a great impact for the less fortunate in our communities. Vulnerable people in our community continue to be severely impacted by the pandemic and helping to ensure they have food and essential supplies to take care of themselves is just one of the ways we can step up and help.”
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Wednesday, June 16, 2021
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Obituaries Duane “Big D” Lee Ezzell Dec. 9, 1962 ~ May 23, 2021
Aurora Biggers / The Chronicle
The library is consistently receiving new batches of books, according to Library Director Margaret Jeffries.
Aurora Biggers / The Chronicle
The library added safety screens to the computers, so that residents can return to utilizing the library’s technology resources, without high risk of contracting or spreading COVID-19.
LIBRARY From Page A1
window, Jefferies said the library’s social media became a powerful tool for them. “It’s a wonderful opportunity for us to market the services we have that people may not be aware of,” Jefferies said. In particular, she credited the youth librarian Gretchen Kolderup who made weekly videos with book reading for kids. “Those are resources that people can go back to again and again,” Jefferies explained. Other fun posts, like a photo of a neighborhood cat that frequently sleeps on
top of the library, were also boosts to the library’s online engagement, with the cat post receiving over 11,000 interactions online. Now that the state is preparing to open back up fully, Jefferies said the library is ready to expand what they have already been doing. “We added these to the computers, so that the community can come back in and use them,” she said, pointing at new COVID-19-friendly protective screens that now surround the computers. The library is also preparing for their summer reading programs for youth and adults, and readying the auditorium and reading rooms for conferences, speakers, and
events that the library already has slated for the summer and fall. “We’re just wearing lots of hats,” Jefferies said. “I don’t think we’re doing anything different from other libraries. I think libraries in general have expanded the ways that they reach their communities.” To be expected in the fall, the community can look out for the opening of the ‘Library of Things,’ a genealogy conference in the fall, and Storytime in the park. For more information, call the library at 503-3974544 and leave a message or email at shpl@ci.st-helens. or.us.
Metro Creative Connection / The Chronicle
The city hopes the Salmonberry timber will yield more than $1.8M though there are expenses related to management and reforestation not calculated.
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national lumber and timber producer. They placed a bid of $653.36—each bid is considered to be the dollars per 1,000 feet of Timber. In comparison, the other two bids considered in the final vote were from Pelham Cutting Inc at $576 and Stimson Lumber at $573.02. The lower bids are a discrepancy of approximately $150,000 (when multiplying the bid by the total feet of lumber) from the Interfor bid, City Administrator John Walsh told the council. “Right now, the market is really strange with a glut of lumber and shortage of timber, and Interfor … has the horsepower to move that kind of timber, the other smaller, more local players just don’t have that resource,” Walsh said. “We’ve been really strategic about when we sell timber to try to hit the tops of the market,
and this is really a good number.” It’s not the highest bid that the city has voted on in the past, but “it’s still a really good price,” according to Walsh. The bid is lower than a timber sale the city made in 2018 but higher than the last sale in February. By June 3, all of the estimated total value of timber to be cut from the contracted area must be paid by Interfor to the city. According to Walsh, the Salmonberry timber should yield more than $1.8M though there are expenses related to management and reforestation not calculated. The timber revenues are held in the City’s Community Development Fund which supports community and economic development projects. These projects, said Walsh, include activities to further the Riverfront Redevelopment Project and local job creation efforts at the St. Helens Industrial Business Park among other investments.
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It is with great sadness we are announcing that Duane Ezzell passed away May 23, 2021, from Pancreatic Cancer. Duane was born in Vancouver, Washington on Dec. 9, 1962, to his father Bill Ezzell and his mother Barbara Ezzell. Duane moved with his family to St. Helens, Oregon in the 5th grade. It was while in St. Helens that his sister Jill remembers him excelling in all things “shop class” related: wood shop, metal shop and automotive shop. In high school, he bought a distinctive cherry red VW Baja Bug that was the pride and joy of his teenage years. He became an expert in dismantling cars and putting them back together again. His love and expertise with the Baja Bug continued into his adulthood where he worked on pit crews for friends in the Baja 1000 Off-Road Motorsport Races along with Score San Felipe 250 for several years, and even went to a race just a month prior to his passing. Being a part Motorsport Racing was more than a hobby for Duane, they were a family, and Mexico was his home away from home! Duane lived and loved large; he had the biggest heart of anyone we have known. You would be hard pressed to find someone who did not absolutely love “Big D” within minutes of meeting him. He was always up for a good outdoor adventure, wherever it took him! Duane enjoyed snowmobil-
ing, skiing in the mountains, driving 4x4 on the beach or in the desert, rafting the whitewater, or just boating on the river. It did not really matter as long as he had good friends to share it with. Duane loved a good party and wherever the party was, rest assured Big D was in the middle of it, and the last to leave. Above all he loved God and family. Duane was always there! Every Christmas gathering, Easter, wedding, birthday, graduation, funeral, any, and every family get together, no matter when or where, he made it a priority. Which as his brother Jeff said, “I am just now realizing the empty void that is going to be left in our next gathering.” Duane was always willing to lend a hand. He enjoyed his involvement and membership with his local Elks. He was a pillar in the boating community and a member of the St. Helens Yacht Club. He was always involved with the Fireworks
for the 4th of July along with several other community functions. He was the kindest man you would ever meet. Duane was only married once to Ronda Sigler in the late 1980’s. He took an active role parenting Brandi Kneeland and Brandon Lasich who became the true pride and joy of his life. He cherished his grandchildren and all the adventures that they had over the years boating, fishing, and camping. He continued that role until the day he died. Duane was an incredible father and papa to his grandkids. He loved them whole heartedly. Duane is survived by his beloved children, Brandi Kneeland (husband Matt), and Brandon; four grandchildren, Jordan, Dylan, Araina, and Lexi; siblings, Jim Ezzell (wife Tecia), Jeff Ezzell (wife Sarai), and Jill “Ezzell” Bennett (husband Ed). A celebration of life will be held at 1 p.m. on June 26, 2021 in St. Helens at The Elks Lodge. In lieu of flowers we are asking if you would instead share any memories or stories, you may have had with Duane. If you would like to share pictures or memories, please email them to duaneezzellmemorial@gmail.com. We will be sharing some at the memorial. Duane would want us to remember all the good times. We will all miss his laugh, amazing smile, and so much more! Please sign our online guestbook at www.columbiafh.com.
Pat Ann Hughson
May 20, 1941 ~ June 8, 2021 Pat Ann Hughson (Sibley) 80, of Clatskanie, Oregon, died Tuesday, June 8th at 5:01 a.m. with her husband Richard and daughter Lesley at her side. Pat was born on May 20, 1941, to Ralph & Carmalita Cummings in Sheridan, Oregon. She then went to live with Leslie & Rena Sibley at age three, after Carmalita’s death. She was legally adopted by the Sibley’s at age nine. Also surviving Pat are son Christopher and wife Suzanne of Avondale, Pennsylvania; grandchildren, Conner, Keaton, Alexandra and Richard; Lesley’s husband Jim; sisters, Helen Anderson & Marion Carpine; and several nieces and nephews with whom she had remained close. Pat was raised by the Sibley’s in St. Helens, Oregon where she graduated from St. Helens High School in 1959. She attended one year at Pacific Lutheran University and returned to St. Helens to
work at Dean’s Market and the St. Helens Hospital. Pat and Richard were married July 10, 1965. They moved to Clatskanie from St. Helens in 1967 and she began working at Crown Zellerbach and Wauna Mill until the birth of her daughter in 1969. Upon settling in Clatskanie, Pat became involved in several community organizations until her death. Her contributions to the community were numerous and included being a founding member of Faith
Lutheran Church, participation in Friends of the Library, Past President of the Clatskanie Garden Club, Rainy Days Quilters, and service to several other local organizations. Pat enjoyed the Oregon coast, traveling in the US and abroad, baking great pies, spending quality time with family and friends and was a 1970’s legend when it came to Jell-O desserts. A memorial service will be held at 2 p.m. on Thursday, June 24, 2021 at Clatskanie City Park. Cremation has taken place and she now rests at Columbia Memorial Gardens in Scappoose, Oregon. Donations can be made in Pat’s memory to Lutheran World Relief, www.lwr.org or the American Cancer Society www.cancer.org. She was loved by many and will be missed greatly. Please sign our online guestbook at www.columbiafh.com.
Crossword Solution This crossword solution is for the June 9, 2021 crossword puzzle.
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Wednesday, June 16, 2021
Plymouth High senior gets surprise graduation
Kelli Nicholson / The Chronicle
Plymouth High School senior, Derek Simpson, during his surprise graduation June 10. KELLI NICHOLSON chroniclenews@countrymedia.net
Although the graduation for Plymouth High School is scheduled for Wednesday, June 16, a special surprise graduation
for senior Derek Simpson was conducted June 10, where he was surrounded by school staff, family, and classmates. Derek was set to leave for boot camp at Marine Corp Recruit Depot
(MCRD) San Diego on Monday, June 14, and would not be able to attend the scheduled high school graduation at Plymouth. With his parent’s consent, Derek enlisted to be a Marine after he turned 17.
Derek Simpson receives his diploma while his parents look on.
As he enters the Marines, he hopes to be a combat mechanic. He has been in the program for a year and a half and his recruiter, Staff Sgt. Colby Wieduwilt, said Derek has a bright future ahead of him.
Plymouth High School, located at 474 N. 16th Street in St. Helens, has been serving its community for the past 23 years. Originally designed like a credit recovery program, the school’s website said the
Kelli Nicholson / The Chronicle
school has evolved into a direct classroom instruction facility. With incorporation of the Discovery Program, Plymouth made a profound change in its school climate focusing on social-emotional learning and academics.
Barley, Rask named Outstanding seniors
Hillary Barley
Columbia County Christian School Graduates Courtesy photo
The 2021 Columbia County Christian School (CCCS) 8th Grade Graduates are Jaiden Bradford - attended CCCS 7th and 8th grade. Ellen Nairn - attended CCCS 2nd grade through 8th grade. Madeline Richman - attended CCCS from 3rd grade through 8th grade. Abby Scholl - attended CCCS from kindergarten through 8th grade.
Courtesy photo
STAFF REPORT chroniclenews@countrymedia.net
Hillary Barley and Maverick Rask are the winners of this year’s St. Helens Sports Booster Club’s Most Outstanding Senior Award.
Maverick Rask
Courtesy photo
Barley ran cross country, played basketball, and competed in track and field for the Lions. “Hilary was the only senior on our team, so she took on an even greater leadership role, often providing guid-
ance for not just our girls’ team, but our boys’ team as well,” SHHS Cross County Coach Naomi Reedy said. “One of her kindest gestures was writing notes of encouragement for her teammates before one of our final meets.” Rask played football, baseball, and wrestled for SHHS. “Maverick leads by example and is a very hard worker,” SHHS Football Coach Cory Young said. “He never complains and is always willing to do whatever the team needs. He’s willing to switch positions if necessary, willing to block so others can get the glory.” Both student-athletes will receive a $1,500 scholarship from the St. Helens Sports Booster Club.
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COVID COMMUNITY OUTREACH TESTING OHSU IS OFFERING COVID TESTING AT NO COST TO YOU!
Grange Scholarship Courtesy photo
The Deer Island Grange announces the 2021 Don Coin Walrod Memorial Scholarship recipient is Emma Hahn from Vernonia High School. The scholarship is for $1,000 and is awarded to a Columbia County High School senior majoring in agriculture, animal science, forestry, or education. Emma will be attending Eastern Oregon University in the fall where she will major in Biology and Rangeland Sciences. Scholarship applications for 2022 will be available from Columbia County High School counselors by November 1, 2021.
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Are you a veteran?
You may be entitled to benefits for serving your country.
Contact your Veteran Service Officer • 503-366-6580 Call CAT at (503)397-3511 to find out if you qualify. Rental and energy assistance applications are available at 125 N. 17th St., St. Helens, OR. Also available on our website at www.CAT-TEAM.org
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Location: Columbia County Fairgrounds located at 58892 Saulser Road St. Helens, OR Dates: Wednesdays Time: 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. Sign up: www.ohsu.edu/COVIDVans
SIGN UP TO GET YOUR TEST AT THIS LOCATION How do I get tested? - Go to URL to sign up for your timeslot. - Please carefully follow registration and scheduling instructions. What else do I need to know? - This is an outdoor testing event, so please dress for the weather. - Testing is for those older than 2 months. - If you tested positive before and do NOT have symptoms, you must wait 90+ days before getting another test. - COVID vaccine will not be provided at these events.
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