FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 14, 2020
Clatskanie pool to be renovated
Rainier High Basketball
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Page A7
looks to the playoffs
The Chief
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VOL. 128, NO. 40
Serving the Lower Columbia Region since 1891
High school lockdown
Jeremy C. Ruark /The Chief
Clatskanie Middle/High School Principal Jim Helmen gives security directions to an arriving Columbia County Sheriff’s deputy during the lockdown.
Jeremy C. Ruark /The Chief
Jeremy C. Ruark /The Chief
Moments after seeing evidence of the threat, Clatskanie Middle/ High School Principal Jim Helmen announces the lockdown over the schools intercom system.
Columbia County Sheriff’s deputies arrive at the school and begin setting up security.
that the threat was to harm students but he would not elaborate on the specific wording of the threat. The lockdown followed a similar, but less intense, lockout on Tuesday after a similar written threat was discovered at the school. Helmen said his main frustration during the lockdown
high school, echoed Helmen’s concern about law enforcement. “We need to have law enforcement here,” she said. “Had there been deputies here sooner, we probably would not have had to release the students. We could have done a lockout, like we did on Tuesday.”
Second security action in 2 days JEREMY C. RUARK jruark@countrymedia.net
Tensions and fear escalated for a second day this week at Clatskanie Middle/ High School following two separate threats written on a school bathroom wall. The more intense security
action took place on Wednesday, Feb. 12, when Principal Jim Helmen was shown a photo taken by a school staff member of the latest threat. Moments after seeing the photo, Helmen went to the school’s intercom system and announced that the school was in immediate lockdown. Helmen told The Chief
was the response time of law enforcement. “The response time on Tuesday was incredible, within five minutes, but in this lockdown the response time was 45 minutes,” Helmen said. Clatskanie School Superintendent Cathy Hurowitz, whose office is located in the
Helmen said the lockdown was triggered because of the response of law enforcement. Helmen said it was unclear at that moment of discovery of the latest threat how soon deputies would arrive on campus.
See LOCKDOWN Page A2
Cap and Trade debate: Heightened fear JEREMY C. RUARK jruark@countrymedia.net
As the Oregon Legislature takes up a renewed version of the Cap and Trade legislation, those concerned about the environmental proposal to reduce green house gas emissions are voicing their opinions at rallies at the state capitol building in Salem. Others are testifying as legislative committees review the latest version of the Cap and Trade legislation. In rural areas of Columbia County, such as Clatskanie, there is heightened fear about the impact of the Cap and Trade legislation. “My concern with Cap and Trade is what effect it will have on industry and more locally, the timber and timber products and paper industry,”
Clatskanie City Manager Greg Hinkelman said. The new environmental regulations would restrict industrial competition and the ability to operate costeffectively, and that, Hinkelman said, would mean those businesses will leave and there will be a cascade effect. “Local utilities will be affected, most likely resulting in higher rates, and there will be an impact on the secondary businesses such as restaurants, stores and other small businesses,” he said. “Cap legislation, should it be enacted, forcing industry to close, would propel us into an instant economic depression that would be catastrophic for the town and area. If we have no jobs, people will leave and the town will die.”
Columbia County Impact
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The Clatskanie Chamber of Commerce also issued an alert to area businesses concerning the Cap and Trade legislation. “We need you to take a stand against harmful legisla-
tion that raises taxes and costs and kills local jobs,” the alert states. The Chamber is urging members to contact their lawmakers concerning Senate Bill
1530 on Cap and Trade. Former Clatskanie Mayor Diane Pohl worries that the Cap and Trade legislation would force closure of the Wauna Mill and would touch everyone in the community. “Everything you purchase that has to be trucked to stores and outlets will cost more because of the cost of distribution,” she said. “This will cause hardships for our most vulnerable in our communities. This is the kind of destruction and hardship rural Oregon will face if this ill-written and ill-researched legislation passes.” According to Pohl, science does not support such drastic measures. “And to fast track this during the 31-day session is madness,” she said. “There is
no emergency, yet they added the emergency clause so voters can’t refer it to a vote.” But the Portland-based group Renew Oregon argues that time is of essence. “We are working to transition away from dirty, polluting energy to a clean, energyefficient economy,” according to the group’s online mission statement. Renew Oregon and other supporters of the Cap and Trade legislation said the new version of the bill includes a geographic rollout that would protect rural communities from higher gasoline prices. Oregon Gov. Brown said the climate policy bill is needed now. See LEGISLATION Page A5
Masonic Lodge to host pancake breakfast CHRISTINE MENGES chronicle2@countrymedia.net
This Sunday, Feb. 16, the Clatskanie Masonic Lodge will host its annual Presi-
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dents’ Day Pancake Breakfast, a tradition that dates back to the 1980s, Clatskanie City Manager Greg Hinkelman estimates. The breakfast is open to all members of the community and will be held from 8 a.m. to 11 a.m. on Sunday, Feb. 16 at the Clatskanie Masonic Lodge at 87 Southeast 2nd Street in Clatskanie. However, Hinkelman said members of the community can feel free to show up at 7:30 a.m. Proceeds from the breakfast benefit two main programs of the Masonic Lodge: the Bikes for Books program at Clatskanie Elementary School and the 4.0 Luncheon for Clatskanie Middle/High School students. The Bikes for Books program is relatively common throughout the state of Oregon, Hinkelman said. It involves elementary school students reading books and getting placed into a raffle depending on the number of books they read. At the end of the school year, the Ma-
sons draw four names; two boys and two girls, who each receive a bike. The drawing is done sometime around the end of May or the beginning of June each year. Bikes in the program run around $300 to $350 apiece, according to Hinkelman. The 4.0 Luncheon is an award for those who make a 4.0 gradepoint average, or A’s in all their classes, at Clatskanie Middle/High School. Members of the Masonic Lodge will cook a lunch for members of the honors society and the students also receive a recognition certificate. The date for the luncheon this year is up in the air, but it is usually done around March or April, Hinkelman said. Funds raised at the pancake breakfast can vary, with past breakfasts raising anywhere from $50 to $400, Hinkelman said. While there is no specific goal for funds raised this year, Hinkelman said he just hopes they can raise as much as possible to support the two programs. The reason the break-
fast is being held during Presidents’ Day Weekend is because America’s most famous Mason in Masonic history was George Washington, the first President of the United Sates. Hinkelman said he would like to have a good crowd turn up to the breakfast. “I would love to have 50 to 100 people show up,” Hinkelman said. “That would be awesome.” Those who show up can expect to be treated to a pancake breakfast with an optional blueberry topping, scrambled eggs, sausages, orange juice, coffee and tea. “It’s a very simple breakfast, but doggone it, it’s good,” Hinkelman said. He is optimistic about people showing up, too. “When people know about it, and it’s benefitting our kids, they’ll show up,” he said. The breakfast cost is $8 for adults, $5 for children ages six through 12, and free for children under the age of six. Tickets will only be sold at the door for cash only.
Courtesy photo
The Clatskanie Masonic Lodge annual Presidents’ Day Pancake Breakfast is a tradition that dates back to the 1980s.
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Friday, February 14, 2020
Clatskanie pool to be renovated system, which would require little to no maintenance. While the renovations and upgrades will cost money, there is a sign that it might not be too burdensome.
CHRISTINE MENGES chronicle2@countrymedia.net
The 60-year-old pool in Clatskanie is ready for major renovations. The renovation, which will cost about $630,000, will be funded by the city’s Scout Lake Funds, a fund which is composed of revenue generated from logging the property around Scout Lake, the interest of which funds recreational and youth projects. “I can’t think of a better thing for the youth than the swimming pool,” Mayor Bob Bracjich said about the pool receiving funds from Scout Lake. Improvements When the project is done, everything will be new except for the existing building where reception, locker rooms and restrooms are located, according to Cyndi Warren, member of the Clatskanie Park and Recreation District, which manages the Clatskanie Pool. The new pool will have a stainless-steel gutter system, which will require little to no maintenance, according to Warren, saving the pool maintenance costs in the long run. Regular maintenance, like replacing tiles in the pool costs the Park and Recreation District about $1,500 to $4,000 each summer, Warren
Cost savings
Jeremy C. Ruark / The Chief
The Clatskanie Pool in the summer of 2019, when it was closed for repairs. The pool will soon undergo major renovations.
said. The new pool would ing that started it all was a not have tiles that need to be leak that was discovered in replaced. the fall of 2018, Warren said. The existing pool will be To fix it, the pool contracthe same size, but there will tor had to replace 60-yearbe no more wading pool and old pipes with PVC pipes, a splash pad will take its something Warren dubbed a place, eliminating the need “quick bandaid fix” for the for lifeguards in that area. overall problem. friends There will be an updated Meet your “When they didand that,relax they at this classic neighborhood energy-efficient mechanical had to cap off the continuous watering room, serving both the regupipinghole! that included the wadMeet your friends relax lar pool and the splash pad ing pool in order and to operate classic neighborhood area. The new mechanicalat thisthe swimming pool. Wading room will boast a new boiler, poolshole! and splash pads have watering replacing the 60-year-old to have their own operating boiler currently in place. system,” Warren said. The Clatskanie Pool did Why the renovations not have separate operating 11 Beers on Tap • Cocktails Wine systems for the&wading pool OREGON LOTTERY • Shuffleboard • Pool Meet friends andpool, relax Deciding to revamp theyourand the regular due to pool was the resultat of athis few classic havingneighborhood been grandfathered watering hole! different findings. The findwhen the pool 11 Beers in on because Tap • Cocktails & Wine
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LOCKDOWN From Page A1 “We could not determine specifically when we could have law enforcement on site,” he said. Columbia County Sheriff Brian Pixley told The Chief the 45-minute wait time was a combination of different events. “The first is that the Clatskanie deputy did not come on duty until 2 p.m. and this call came out at around 12:45 p.m.” Pixley said. “Once we arrive on scene, the first thing we do is check the perimeter of the building to ensure the scene is safe, then contact school officials. Our main issue is the safety of the kids and the school staff.” Pixley said the county is short of needed deputies for the increasing calls his office is receiving. Besides continuing his active recruiting for more deputies, Pixley said he’ll return to the county budget committee this spring with a request for more funding to meet the law enforcement demand in the county. Hurowitz and Helmen said the Tuesday incident was less intense because deputies had arrived quickly after school officials alerted the Sheriff’s Office to the school threat. “We had to have the lockdown because we did not have law enforcement here in a timely manner,” Hurowitz said. “When law enforcement arrives they are very well trained, they are very supportive and that provides that extra element of security that we need to make sure students and our community knows that everyone is safe,” Helmen said. The Wednesday lockdown was lifted, according to Helmen, once deputies arrived and began coordinating security efforts and the students were released. “It was necessary to release the students because it’s a pattern of behavior and the deputies felt that needed to do a full investigation,” Helmen said. As the investigation continued on Wednesday, deputies and school staff searched student backpacks and other belongings that were ordered left at the school as the students were released. The search by deputies was an effort to find anything, such as weapons or evidence, that might lead to the person responsible for the threats, according to Hurowitz. “We have a few names we are looking and the two incidents occurred in the same location,” Helmen said. “It’s the same style of writing, but we are making any guesses as to why it is occurring. We are taking every precaution so that we can determine whatever support we can provide the individual that is creating
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Jeremy C. Ruark /The Chief
A Columbia County Sheriff’s deputy stands in the front hallway of the school as students are released during Play the lockdown. Sandwiches
Something that could potentially alleviate funding problems is the fact that because they will be installing an energy efficient heating and filtration system, the pool will be looking at an Oregon energy credit, something the pool contractor, Anderson Poolworks recommended, Warren said. “The pool contractor feels like this is something we could recoup the entire cost of that particular part of the project,” Warren said. The energy credit program could recoup as much as $130,000, according to Warren. Other than regular maintenance, like replacing certain tiles every summer, the pool has not undergone any major renovations since it was first built 60 years ago, Warren said. The pool was resurfaced in 2009 for $50,000, and pool resurfacing must be done about once every 10 years, meaning the pool would be due for another resurfacing anyway.
was first established separate operating systems were not a requirement. Once modifications were made, the pool was considered to be no longer grandfathered in, and separate operating systems would have to be made for both pools, according to WarGood times ren. At that point, pool staff ROLL at the decided to do away with the wading pool and get a splash Good times pad, because they had heard ROLL at the it was getting harder to get licensed through the department of health. At the same time the pipes were being replaced and the pool was empty, they noticed some weak spots in the pool’s Timeline Good flooring. Thetimes contractor at the at the LIVE ENTERTAINMENT timeROLL recommended installSome renovations will Music & Magic • Fridays & Saturdays ing a stainless steel gutter begin immediately, with the
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bulk of the work being done before the pool opens in midJune, according to Warren. The pool will also have other improvements which will be ongoing, and the completion date is still to be determined. The mechanical room upgrades will be done before the pool opens in June, but other improvements, like getting a new gutter system and resurfacing hinge on when the new gutter system arrives. Because the pool is a custom size, the stainless-steel gutter system will have to be custom made, which might mean it will not come in until early fall, at which point it would be installed until after the pool has closed, Warren said. Whether or not the stainless-steel gutter system arrives soon will not impact the opening of the pool at the scheduled time in mid-June. Warren said the pool has also received a generous donation of $25,000 toward the project, received from a community donor who wishes to remain anonymous. “We would encourage any donations, any help anybody would want to put toward this project, and we will also look for any companies to offer in-kind help if they feel compelled to,” Warren said. Those interested in making donations to help fund the pool renovations should contact Cyndi Warren at warren.cyndi@yahoo.com.
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Forest management pact ‘historic agreement’ Governor Kate Brown has announced what is being called a “historic agreement” between representatives from the state’s forest industry and major environmental groups to chart a collaborative course toward meaningful, science-based forest management in Oregon. The agreement takes a significant step toward a new era of cooperation, leaving behind the conflicts of the past, according to a release from Gov. Brown’s office. “This pact proves that when we work together with a willingness to compromise, we can create a better future in Oregon,” Brown said. “Oregonians want healthy forests and fish, a vibrant forest sector, and prosperous rural communities. These are not mutually exclusive goals. The conversations that brought forth this agreement, coupled with sound science, will bring certainty for everyone involved while protecting Oregon’s environment and endangered species.” The signed memorandum of understanding (MOU) addresses three key issues. • Drive a process for Oregon to update its timber practices: For the first time, Oregon will strive for the endorsement of federal wildlife
Courtesy photo
The agreement takes a significant step toward a new era of cooperation, leaving behind the conflicts of the past, according to a release from Gov. Brown’s office.
agencies, signifying that the state’s forest practices are protective of threatened and endangered species, including Oregon’s iconic salmon. Through this process, the state will seek a Habitat Conservation Plan, allowing Oregonians to continue their long tradition of working in the woods while honoring natural habitats. • Support passage of new legislation for the 2020 session on aerial spraying of pesticides: A state-of-the-art system will build confidence
with forest neighbors, who will be eligible to receive real-time notification that aerial spraying will occur. This first of its kind system will expand protected spray buffers around drinking water, homes and schools. • Expand forest stream buffers in the Rogue-Siskiyou region: New legislation will also expand forest stream buffers along salmon, steelhead, and bull trout streams, aligning forest practices in the area with those of the rest of western
Oregon. With this MOU, both sides have agreed that all forestry-related initiative petitions and related litigation will be dropped after the passage of the legislation this session. This MOU is shared recognition of the diverse benefits Oregon’s forests provide, and the need for more meaningful dialogue around forest issues across the state, according to Greg Miller, long-time timber industry executive and repre-
sentative of the coalition of forest companies. Miller said Oregon is one of the best places in the world to grow and harvest trees sustainably. “We lead the nation in wood products manufacturing, and we are proud of our record of environmental stewardship,” Miller said. “Now as we move forward into a new era of cooperation and transparency, forest policy should continue to rely on the best available science. The 60,000 Oregon
families who work in the forest sector — indeed all Oregonians — expect that level of rigor and thoughtfulness when it comes to forest management. With this MOU, we are hopeful that we have found a pathway forward that meets those expectations and sets Oregon up for the most comprehensive, forward-thinking forest policy in the nation,” Miller said. Bob Van Dyk, Oregon policy director at the Wild Salmon Center, said the agreement is a critical step toward modernizing Oregon’s forest rules. “Oregonians are rightfully proud of our forests and what they provide, including some of the best salmon runs in the Lower 48 and drinking water for most of the state,” Van Dyk said. “It’s our collective duty to make sure that a healthy timber industry doesn’t come at the expense of fish, wildlife, and public health.” “This agreement is a genuine show of good faith from both sides. There’s still much work to be done for our communities and the healthy environment on which we all depend. There is a long road ahead, but this agreement is a big first step in the right direction.”
Search for missing man
Photos courtesy of CCSH
Have you seen Curt Golson, or this pickup truck? If so, call the Columbia Count Sheriff’s Office at 503-397-1521. STAFF REPORT chiefnews@countrymedia.net
The Columbia County Sheriff’s Office has launched a search for a missing Vernonia man. Deputies were told that Curt Golson had left his house in a black 2007 Chevrolet Silverado with Oregon license plate 006 DEH. The truck had a black and white camper on it. According to investiga-
tors, Golson has not contacted anyone since Jan. 25. CCSO Deputies and search and rescue crews have been searching the Apiary Road area in an effort to locate Golson and his truck. As of Thursday, Feb. 13, Golson was still missing. Authorities are asking anyone who might have any information, or contacts with Golson, to call the Columbia County Sheriff’s Office at 503397-1521.
Local law enforcement agents complete training STAFF REPORT chiefnews@countrymedia.net
Columbia County Sheriff’s Office Deputy Sheriff Kyle Beam and Rainier Police Department Officer Douglas Wheeler are part of the 395th Basic Police Class that is scheduled to graduate on Friday, Feb. 14. According to the Oregon Department of Public Safety Standards and Training, the 37 members of the 395th Basic Police class have completed a 16-week basis police training course, which including survival skills, firearms, emergency vehicle operations, ethics, cultural diversity, problem solving, community policing, elder abuse, drug recognition, and dozens of other subjects.
The Basic Police Class 395 will graduate at 11 a.m. Friday, Feb. 14 at the Oregon Public Safety Academy, 4190 Aumsville Highway SE in Salem. A reception immediately follows the graduation. Keizer Police Chief John Teague will be the graduation speaker. The public is invited to the graduation.
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Cap and Trade leakage NIKOLE YOUNG Chief Guest Column
Cap and Trade has been on my radar since last year. I learned how mental health resources were carved out of the bill and how a $10-million increase in welfare benefits wasn’t enough to offset Oregon’s unemployment. Negatives came in droves. All I could think was, “Oregonians will plummet to the bottom of the Maslow pyramid.” I’ve been at the bottom of that pyramid. I’ve worked assembling football helmets by hand. I lost 20lbs in three months because I couldn’t afford food. My only means of transportation, a secondhand moped, was stolen. I slowly worked my way up the pyramid. I started work in a warehouse and eventually afforded online college. I credit a specific group of people for helping me along my way. They are the working-class people I’ve been privileged with knowing. Coworkers at the helmet facility gave me furniture. Co-workers at the warehouse taught me the mechanics of my first car. So many impactful moments happened that I’m writing a book about it. I’m humbled by how dignified each person treated me. The warehouse I worked in was at a power plant. Professionals from the utility’s headquarters visited the power plant and treated these people, who extended to me the warmest welcome, like garbage. I was treated like garbage. I know there exist good and bad in every social class. My rebuttal to anyone who tells me that I wear rose-colored glasses is this: How is it okay for UC
Berkeley professor Jackson Kernion to call rural Americans “bad people”? How is it okay for Senator Peter Courtney to unilaterally declare Oregon’s working-class ways of life dead? How is it okay for Oregon legislators to label the intended destruction of bluecollar jobs “leakage”? It will be a matter of time before Georgia Pacific moves production elsewhere and sells or shuts down the Wauna Mill if Cap and Trade passes. Not only will this dislocate over 1,000 residents, we’ll lose a valuable power-generating resource. The Wauna Mill’s steam produces energy for the Clatskanie PUD through a cogeneration agreement. I can’t imagine any alternatives other than the PUD purchasing power at a higher price and passing that expense onto us or the PUD completely disbanding if the Wauna Mill closes. There is really only one option for the PUD to either purchase power from or relinquish its customer base to; Portland General Electric. With the portfolio that PGE boasts, it makes sense for the PUC to allow PGE expansion into our territory. This is the problem I have with that: lip service. I know that PGE’s CEO is a board member for Oregon’s Global Warming Commission. I know that same CEO is an advocate for the cap-and-trade bill. I also know that PGE declares a “Clean Energy Future” while its CEO makes deals with legislators to receive free carbon credits that can be sold for profit. The hypocrisy of these actions concerns me; the disregard for genuine climate action because company CEOs will increase profits while they pollute and make us destitute. My
community will lose not just by the loss of jobs due to the Wauna Mill shutting down, but also due to the skyrocketing power bills we will pay if Cap and Trade passes. It will kill small business, our schools, and us. Profitable alternatives to Cap and Trade exist. I’m a proponent for nuclear power. There’s a lot of misinformation about it. Our Navy’s submarines operate with nuclear reactors. This specific energy solution would clean up emissions, put thousands of Oregonians into lucrative work, and produce more megawatts than coal. One problem (of many) with existing renewable options (wind and solar) is that we consume power at all hours of the day. Renewable power generators peak and are useless the rest of the time. This is why power companies consolidate hydroelectric generation into their “renewables” portfolios, to make it look like more renewable power exists than what actually does. My other suggestion is to let Oregonians vote on climate legislation. I’m not an uneducated country bumpkin. Neither are the community members I stand beside. We are hardworking Oregonians whose taxes pay for the lights inside our state’s capitol. Let us decide, have a voice, and steer our state. We the people.
The Chief
Nikole Young, a Clatskanie resident, is not employed by or a spokesperson for Georgia Pacific, Clatskanie PUD, or Portland General Electric. Young said her opinions are formed through publicly-available information. Join the conversation. The Chief welcomes all sides of this issue.
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Tackling Cap and Trade BRAD WITT Chief Guest Column
Many Legislative proposals have been introduced this short session, but one that has captured much attention is SB 1530 commonly referred to as the Cap and Trade bill, a plan to reduce Oregon’s greenhouse emissions. SB 1530 is similar to the Cap and Trade bill that was introduced in 2019 (HB 2020) and relates to reducing greenhouse gas emission in the transportation, manufacturing and utilities sectors. Large polluters would need to obtain credits for each ton of gas they emit, and there would be an overall statewide cap on emissions reducing over time. I believe that we need to deal with climate change, and arrest the spectrum of greenhouse gas emission, to ensure that the earth remains inhabitable for us and every
other living species. However, I think SB 1530 is a flawed model, and while there are many other Oregon jurisdictions who have a higher carbon output, portions of House District 31 would be treated adversely. That’s why many of my constituents joined the Timber Unity rally last Thursday at the Capitol. We have the opportunity to get this legislation right, but perhaps not during a short five-week session. Government works when we have buy-in from those who are governed. Finding legislative consensus is not simple, but it is achievable when we listen and incorporate the needs of all our stakeholders. Clean air, clean water and carbon reduction are achievable goals, but we need to work together and not just penalize those rural Oregonians who are working hard to maintain a good standard of living. The legislative process includes amending legislation to get
it right, and I have ideas that would improve this bill by working across party lines to build consensus. I will continue to advocate for changes that make carbon reduction implementation fair across the state. Oregon has tackled many difficult challenges and I am confident that we can find a workable solution that neither singles out rural Oregon in general, or my district in particular, for unequal or adverse treatment. Bills are moving Given the time frame of the short session, bills are moving through the legislative process. On Tuesday on the House Floor, I was proud to jointly carry HB 4052 with Rep. Sherrie Sprenger, R-Scio. HB 4052 is a bill from my House Natural Resources Committee and was unanimously approved by House members. This legislation amends residency require-
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ments for wildlife license, tag and permit application. In order to claim residency, a person must have resided in Oregon at least six months before applying for tags, licenses or permits. Merely owning property or paying property taxes, while claiming residency in another state or country will not qualify. This measure will provide Oregon State Police and prosecutors another tool to deal with individuals arrested for wildlife poaching who have claimed out-of-state residency. HB 4052 now moves to the Senate for consideration. Another bill approved this week by the House, was HB 4140, legislation to help educators and students deal with concussions and brain injuries. I was happy to join Rep. Courtney Neron, D-Wilsonville in sponsoring this legislation which will direct the Department of Education to develop a form and protocols to deal with student learning after con-
The Chief (USPS 116-360) is published weekly by Country Media, Inc. 148 N. Nehalem St., P.O. Box 8 Clatskanie, Oregon 97016 Periodicals postage paid at Clatskanie, OR 97016
cussions and brain injuries. In 2009, lawmakers approved a bill dealing with sports related concussions and brain injuries and its impact on their athletic participation. HB 4140 takes it further, seeking to provide ways to help educators, students, parents, and guardians assist learning for students who have suffered a brain injury. Quarterly revenue forecast On Wednesday, state economists delivered their quarterly revenue forecast which shows an $183.4 million increase in the general fund and lottery resources over December’s predictions. These increases are driven by higher-thanestimated personal income and estate tax collections. Oregon’s economy is strong, we continue to see high employment rates. We need to continue to look ahead and seek equity in our economic growth for all Oregonians.
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Be engaged In order to best represent the people of House District 31, I’d like to hear from you as measures are taken up for consideration. It is my privilege to represent your interests, so if you have an issue or concern regarding a state agency, please contact my office. If you are planning to come to Salem this month and would like to meet with me, please call in advance so we can schedule an appointment. I always enjoy seeing constituents when they visit the Capitol. Rep. Brad Witt serves House District 31. He may be reach at: • Email: Rep.BradWitt@ oregonlegislature.gov • Telephone: 503-986-1431 • Capitol Building: 900 Court St NE, H-382, Salem, OR, 97301 • Website: http://www. oregonlegislature.gov/witt
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importance of your non-profit or club. I want to help your non-profit and club stay viable and be sustainable, so they can continue to do good for our community. I need your help to do this. Please email me your club or non-profit name, contact person, email and phone number and when your board meets so I can get the information to them in a timely matter. My goal is to publish this special section in the last week of February in both The Chronicle (2/26) and Chief (2/28) This is a paid advertorial. The ad deadline is Thursday, February 20th. I have discounted and created different levels in the hopes that we can capture your nonprofit and club.
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Thank you all in making it a great success The Valentines Day Bake Sale. To benefit Andrea Larson’s daughter, River. Thank you all for the baked goods. From Calvin Olson, Barb Ripplinger, Christy Davis, Jennifer White, Teresa George, Debbie Bernsten, Jack & Melinda White, Joe Neal, Courtney Rutt, & Kendra Poor. Thank you to all my helpers, Karla Straw, Courtney Rutt, Jennifer Karvonen, Ginger Harris and Donna Lopardi. Thank you all that participated with your donations. The money earned will be going toward River’s college education.
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public inspection. AGENDA CLATSKANIE PEOPLE’S UTILITY DISTRICT BOARD WORKSHOP on Wednesday, February 19, 2020 at 5:30 P.M. I. GUEST SPEAKER: Scott Wilson, Bonneville Power Administration Account Executive II. PRESENTATION: Resource Acquisition and Disposition Report, Arin Guillory Financial Analyst III. POLICY REVIEW: New Policy 112 IV. STAFF REPORTS CLATSKANIE PEOPLE’S UTILITY
DISTRICT REGULAR BOARD MEETING on Wednesday, February 19, 2020 at 7:00 P.M. I. PUBLIC COMMENTS II. CONSENT AGENDA · Minutes of Board Workshop, January 15, 2019 · Minutes of Regular Board Meeting, January 15, 2019 · Review payment of bills for January 2019 III. ACTION ITEMS · None IV. DISCUSSION / INFORMATIONAL ITEMS · Board Comments & Calendar V. EXECUTIVE SESSION VI. ADJOURNMENT
LEGISLATION
see” approach to the Cap and Trade debate. The City’s Government Affairs and Project Support Specialist Rachael Barry said it’s too soon to forecast any negative impact to St. Helens, but she said the bill, as presented, has wide-ranging impacts. “It changes our statewide emissions reduction goals and the oversight structure for measuring and achieving these targets,” Barry said. “St. Helens is not a regulated entity under the bill definitions as we are not a utility, do not generate power, and in the course of providing public services, we do not engage in emissionsintensive trade-exposed processes.” Barry said the City would have “more to say” when a final bill is enacted by the legislature. “The League of Oregon Cities has been a part of the conversation around greenhouse gas reduction and we will continue to work with cities across the state to set and meet reasonable reduction targets,” Barry said. According to Jim McCauley, Oregon League of Cities Legislative Director, which represents all 241 cities in Oregon adopted principles in 2019 on carbon to help guide the
League’s position on specific aspects of the Cap and Trade policy discussion, including transportation fuels and public contracting provisions. “Our primary focus has been on the fuel-related costs and impacts to public contracting on local governments across Oregon and its potential impact on a $5.3 billion transportation investment package passed during the 2017 session,” McCauley said. On Monday, Feb. 10, Timber Unity, an Oregon timber industry support group, announced an alternative fourpoint plan that includes: • Developing and executing a right-of-way carbon sink plan to reduce carbon emissions at the source. • Reducing road miles through public procurement and asset management • Investing in recycling infrastructure • Accelerating depreciation on fleet and business upgrades while holding small business harmless See the entire Timber Unity plan and a link to the Cap and Trade legislation attached to this story at thechiefnews.com. We’ve also provided updates in the Friday print editions of The Chief.
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The Clatskanie People’s Utility District Board of Directors has scheduled the next regular Board meeting for Wednesday, February 19, 2020 at 7:00 pm in the community room of the District’s administration building located at 495 E Columbia River Highway, Clatskanie. A Board Workshop will be held at 5:30 pm. An executive session may be called at the workshop and/or meeting, pursuant to: ORS 192.660 (2) (f) information or records that are exempt by law from
February 20 • ProActive Coaching: ProActive Coaching is a highly regarded organization that works to improve the experience for coaches, student-athletes and their parents at all amateur and professional levels. This is a free event for all coaches, student-athletes and parents.
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“We know that, if left unchecked, climate change will have devastating effects on all that we hold dear,” Brown told the City Club of Portland in late January. “Doing nothing is not an option. I am committed to crafting climate policy that protects our environment and also grows our economy. In Oregon, we can do both.” In St. Helens, South County Chamber of Commerce Executive Director Chrissy Marquardt said they are keeping a close watch with what happens with Cap and Trade at the Oregon Legislature. “The Oregon State Chamber of Commerce has issued a statement against Cap and Trade because it would impact small businesses due to the tax on fuel emissions,” she said. The South Columbia County Chamber offers legislative updates to its members through the Chamber’s newsletter. To sign up for the newsletter, visit southcolumbiacountychamber.org, or go to the Chamber’s Facebook page. St. Helens city officials said they are taking a “wait and
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•Area Churches••
• CLATSKANIE
Clatskanie Baptist Church 415 South Nehalem St., 503-728-2304 Senior Pastor Kirk Bennett Clatskanie Presbyterian Church 215 South Nehalem Street Clatskanie, OR 97016 Phone: 503-728-2300 Clatskanie Presbyterian Church is a community of Christian faith that expresses a relationship with God, and the Holy Spirit for everyone individually and collectively. Sunday Feb. 16, 2020 Pastor: Erik Huget Old testament reading: Psalm 119: 1-8 New testament reading: 1st Corinthians 3: 1-9 Sermon title: No Seed, No Growth Adult Bible Study is on Sunday at 9:15 a.m. in the Fireside room Mayger-Downing Community Church 80071 Life Lane, 503-728-2305 Pastor John Thomas St. John the Baptist Catholic Church 100 SW High Street 503-556-5641 Great Vow Zen Monastery 79640 Quincy-Mayger Road, Clatskanie, Oregon 97016 Sunday Morning Program 10am 503-728-0654 Faith Lutheran Church 1010 5th Street, Clatskanie, Oregon 97016. 503-728-4604 Pastor - Mary Anthony
RAINIER
Alston’s Corner Assembly of God 25272 Alston Rd. 503-556-1961 Pastor Steve Berry Nativity Of The Blessed Virgin 204 C St., E Rainier 503-556-5641 Rainier Assembly of God 74950 Rock Crest St., 503-556-8211 Pastor Jeff McCraken Rainier Community Church of God 321 W C St., Rainier, 503-556-5661 Rainier United Methodist Church Corner of 1st & ‘C’ St., 503-556-3440 Pastor Michele Holloway Riverside Community Church 305 West C Street, Rainier
503-556-1216; Pastor Paul Rice Columbia Bible Church 10:30 a.m. Sunday 407 East Second St. Rainier, OR 97016 Robert Klukas 360-501-4060 Heritage Bible Church, Rainier Senior Center, 48 W 7th St., Rainier, Oregon 97048
ST. HELENS
Ascension Evangelical Lutheran Church 1911 Columbia Blvd., 503-312-1072 Pastor Burkhardt Calvary Lutheran Church 58251 Division Rd., St. Helens 503-397-1739 Pastor: Mark Dennis Columbia River Foursquare Church 555 Commons Drive, St. Helens 503-397-0069 Senior Pastor Mike Cooke Christ Episcopal Church 35350 E. Division Rd., St. Helens 503-397-1033 Rev. Jaime Sanders Columbia Christian Center 235 S 15th St., 503-366-8028 Pastor Terry Luttrell St. Helens Community Bible Church 35031 Millard Rd., St. Helens Pastor Max Snook www.sthelensbiblechurch.org Christian Church 185 S. 12th St., St. Helens 503-397-2151 Pastor Justin Bruner First Lutheran Church 360 Wyeth St. 503-397-0090 Interim Pastor Randy Sinn First United Methodist Church 560 Columbia Blvd., 503-397-0061 Pastor Jared Maddox Plymouth Presbyterian Church 2615 Sykes Rd., 503-397-0062 Pastor David Hutchinson St. Frederic Catholic Church 175 S. 13th St., 503-397-0148 Father Nicolaus Marandu The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints 2755 Sykes Road, St. Helens St. Helens 1st Ward Bishop Kent Dery 971-225-8727 St. Helens 2nd Ward Bishop Paul Erickson 971-813-
4000 Scappoose Ward Bishop Lorin Fielding 503-987-2179 Sunset Park Community Church 174 Sunset Blvd, St Helens Pastor Aaron Hiller St. Helens Church of Christ 295 S. 18th St., St. Helens Pastor Ivan Bissell 503-366-0967
SCAPPOOSE
Grace Lutheran Church 51737 Columbia River Hwy., Scappoose 503-543-6555 Joshua Wiley Scappoose Foursquare Church 33404 SW JP West, Scappoose 503-543-5069 Pastor Daniel Schmoll St. Wenceslaus Catholic Church 51555 SW Old Port Rd., Scappoose 503-543-2110 Chuck Wood
WARREN
Bethany Lutheran Church 34721 Church Rd., Warren 503-397-2050, Ingrid Aderhold Grace Baptist Church 58690 Ross Rd., Warren 503-397-0405 Pastor Dean Christensen Warren Baptist Church 56799 Columbia River Highway, 503-397-1005 Pastor Randy Thomas Warren Community Fellowship 56523 Columbia River Highway, 503-397-4387 Pastor Cary Wacker
VERNONIA
Nehalem Valley Bible Church 500 North St., 503-429-5378 Pastor Gary Taylor Vernonia Christian Church 410 North St. 503-429-6522 Pastor Sam Hough St. Mary’s Catholic Church 960 Missouri Ave., 503-429-8841 Father Dale Waddil, Father Luan Tran
GOBLE
Cornerstone Baptist Church 70024 Goble Rd. 360-562-6201 Pastor Fred Mathews
•C ommunity C alendar • •
Please see below for this special schedule of events: Session 1: 3:30 p.m. – 4:30 p.m. This is a free event for all coaches and student-athletes. Topic: Choices to Reach Potential. Have standards, not rules. The clearer behavioral standards are defined, the better chance athletes will rise to them.
In order for individual athletes and teams to reach their potential they must have clearly identified expectations for team behaviors. This presentation clearly defines the following characteristics in athletic, age appropriate terms; Discipline, Teachable Spirit, Mental Toughness, Accountability,
Integrity, Selflessness, Pride and Humility. Dinner: 4:30 p.m. - 5:30 p.m. (food available in the CMHS commons). Session 2: 5:30 p.m. – 6:30 p.m. for all parents, coaches and community. Topic: Role of Parents in Athletics. A straightforward message from athletes to their parents
about how adults can help their athletic performance, create good memories and demonstrate respect from the perspective of young people. Before, during and after competition will be addressed. February 22 • Eagles Spaghetti Dinner: 6
p.m. Spaghetti Dinner to benefit the Rainier Senior Center will be held at 109 W A Street in Rainier. March 13 • Columbia County Job Fair: 9 a.m. – 1 p.m. at Columbia River Four Square Church, 555 Commons Dr. St. Helens.
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Friday, February 14, 2020
•O bituaries • • Tamre Reece
Leonard A. Scott
April 5, 1959 ~ Feb. 1, 2020
April 9, 1932 ~ Feb. 3, 2020 Leonard A. Scott was born April 9, 1932 in a float house in Carrolls, Washington to Owen and Jessie (Reither) Scott. He went to the 1st grade in Carrolls and then moved to Mist, Oregon, finishing grade and high school in Clatskanie, Oregon, where he graduated in1950. He enlisted in the Navy when the Korean war broke out and went to boot camp in San Diego. He graduated on his 19th birthday. He served on the U.S. Monrovia APA 31 serving a tour of duty in the Mediterranean and Caribbean. He was honorably discharged in November 1954. Leonard worked in the lumber industry until retiring in 1994. In 1956 he married Judy Washburn. They had two daughters, Lori and Shari, in Astoria, Oregon. They then moved to Wrangell, Alaska in 1961 where Susan, Sandra and Steven were born. They returned to Longview, Washington and
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then Alston Mayger Road in Rainier, Oregon for 28 years, and then downtown Rainier. Leonard studied the bible and became one of Jehovah’s Witnesses in February 1972. Leonard loved talking to and studying the bible with people. He loved spending time with his children and grandchildren. He loved playing golf and camping at Lake Mayfield. Every chance he got, he headed to the Oregon and Washington coasts with their dogs, Casey, Samo
and Mickie. After retiring, Leonard and Judy traveled on several cruises and trips to various places in the U.S. Leonard has five children, Lori Pond (husband Bill) of Portland, Oregon, Shari Hamilton (husband Chip) of Rainier, Oregon, Susan Thomson (husband Dave) of Troutdale, Oregon and Steve Scott (wife Kim) of Lake Wylie, South Carolina and Sandra Walke (deceased); 10 grandchildren, Stephanie Howard, Scott Pond, Ashley Howard, Amanda Londo, Brooks Hamilton, Steven Hamilton, Casey Walke, Staisha Walkie, Mikayla Scott and Garrett Scott; five greatgrandchildren, Brooklyn Howard, Olivia Londo, Presley Hamilton, Brendon Hamilton, and Jace Hamilton; and one sibling Phyllis Erickson (deceased). A memorial will be held at 2 p.m. on Feb. 15, 2020 at the Mt. Solo Kingdom Hall of Jehovah’s Witnesses in Longview, Washington.
•C ommunity E vents • •
Mondays: • Oregon Hunters Association Columbia County Chapter membership meetings are held the second Monday of each month at the Kozy Korner Restaurant in St. Helens. Meetings start at 7 p.m. or come early at 6:30 p.m. for some good food and visiting. • Community Action Team Board of Directors meetings take place on the fourth Monday of every month unless the meeting would fall on a holiday, from 2 – 4 p.m. in the CAT boardroom, 125 N. 17th St., St. Helens. • The American Legion Post 68 meets the second Monday of the month at 7 p.m. at the Legion Hall, 930 SE 5th St., Clatskanie. Tuesdays: • The VFW meets on the second Tuesday of the month at 7 p.m. at 960 SW 5th St., Clatskanie. • The Columbia County Law Library will be holding Court Forms Clinics every Tuesday from 4 p.m. – 8 p.m. (weather permitting). Get help filling our court forms commonly used in the Columbia County courthouse. The forms are free and the clinic is free. Sign up is required and is available at the courthouse Mon. – Fri. from 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. or at the Law Library Tuesdays and Thursdays from 11 a.m. – 3 p.m. 270 S. First St., St. Helens. Questions: 503-3965344 or ccll@columbiacll.org or davis12000@aol.com. Wednesdays: • Rotary Club of Columbia County – St. Helens meeting is held at the Warren Country Inn at 12 p.m. For more information, call 503-3972341.
Saturdays: • NAMI Columbia County Support Group, National Alliance on Mental Illness, meets on the second Saturday of every month from 12 p.m. – 2 p.m. at the Elks Veterans Bunker, 125 S. 13th St., St Helens, Oregon. For more information, contact Judy Thompson 503-3976056 or contact NAMI Oregon at 503-230-8009. • The Rainier Historical Museum is open every Saturday from 12 p.m. – 4 p.m. It is located inside Rainier City Hall. Please enter the side entrance and take the elevator to the 3rd floor.
• Columbia SWCD meets the third Wednesday of each month at 7 p.m., 35285 Millard Rd., St. Helens. December’s meeting will be held at 6 p.m. • Lawyer in the Law Library is a series of talks about common legal problems. Meeting are on the second Wednesday of each month from 6 p.m. – 8 p.m. A lawyer will provide basic information and answer your questions about the topic of the evening. Columbia County Law Library, 270 S. First St., St. Helens. Call 503-396-5344 with questions. • Port of Columbia County Board of Commissioners hold meetings at 8:30 a.m. on the second and fourth Wednesday of the month at the Port of Columbia County office, 100 E St., Columbia City.
Tamre D. Reece, 60, passed away on Feb. 1, 2020 in Columbia City, Oregon. She was born April 5, 1959 in Gardner, Kansas at the Reece Hospital, early on a Sunday morning, to Dorothy and Robert Reece. She was the second of three daughters. The family moved to Forest Grove, Oregon later that year when Tamre was just a few months old. Tamre graduated with the class of 1977 from Forest Grove High School. Tamre was a mother of five children that she was extremely proud of; Nana to six grand-darlings; a daughter, a sister, Aunt D; and a friend and caretaker to many. From the age of 15 she knew her calling was to care for the elderly; from CNA, CMA to licensed care provider; finally owning her own care facility was a dream come true. Tamre had many hobbies. She could paint, draw, write poetry, crochet, sew, ride horses, swim and played the piano beautifully. She was known to out-fish whoever accompanied her on her fishing
adventures. She enjoyed the outdoors, swimming or just to be near the water sunbathing and listening to tunes. She had a sense of humor unlike any other and loved to crack jokes and make you laugh. Tamre loved her family, her friends, her dogs, her horse and the Lord fiercely with all her heart. Tamre is survived by her children, April Reece Davis of Forest Grove, Oregon, Brandy Reece Pate and her husband Josh of Hillsboro, Oregon, Jescah Chapman, Bryce Ott, Chelsea Kuhn and her husband
Clayton all of Scappoose, Oregon; six grand-darlings, Caleb, Keely, Hayzen, Henry, Mila, Alivia and another grandson due in May; mother Dorothy Reece of Forest Grove, Oregon; sister Renee Gould and her husband Kevin of Hillsboro, Oregon; sister Tia Grotjohn and her husband Ken of Clatskanie, Oregon; five nephews; one niece; several aunts, uncles and cousins; and her first husband Richard Garcia (April and Brandy’s father). She is preceded in death by her father Robert S. Reece and her former husband Darryn Ott (Jescah, Bryce and Chelsea’s father). In lieu of flowers please send a donation in her memory to either Columbia River Fire & Rescue or Warren Community Fellowship. A celebration of life will be held from 1 p.m. – 3 p.m. on Saturday, March 7, 2020 at Warren Community Fellowship, 565 Columbia River Highway, Warren, OR 97053. Please sign our online guestbook at www.columbiafh.com.
Rainier Chamber hands out awards JEREMY C. RUARK jruark@countrymedia.net
The Rainier Chamber of Commerce has recognized individuals and businesses with its annual awards presentation. During the event, hosted at ACT Development, at 103 West C. St. in Rainier, Sightline Equipment received the 2019 Rainier Chamber of Commerce Business of the Year Award. Cardinal Services received the Chamber’s New Member of the Year Award. Mike Avent of ACT Development was presented with the Community Contribution Award. The 2019 Achievement Award of the Year was presented
to Rainier Mayor Jerry Cole. Natasha Parvey, of Keep It Local of Columbia County, received Chamber Advocate of the Year Award. Chamber President Meagan Fawcett, of Columbia Pacific Food Bank Business Development, shared 2020 goals for continued growth of the Rainier Chamber and Port of Columbia County Executive Director Doug Hayes and Columbia County Economic Team Executive Director Chuck Daughtry discussed business development in Columbia County. Daughtry said Columbia County’s business opportunities include available land, OMIC, location to
Portland, and affordable electricity. The threats to development include lack of existing industrial buildings, affordable housing, shovel ready sites, water and transportation. “Provided that the business cycle continues to be robust, we expect our local economy to continue to grow due to our proximity to Portland, skilled workforce and existing industrial base,” Daughtry said. “OMIC will spur growth throughout the region. Port Westward is critical to our economic future. Projects like Next Energy and NW Innovation works will augment existing investment from PGE and Global Partners.”
Thursdays: • The Veterans breakfast is held the first Thursday of the month at 10 a.m. at the Legion Hall, 930 SE 5th St., Clatskanie. • The regular monthly Rainier Chamber of Commerce meeting is held on the second Thursday of every month at 12 p.m. at the United Methodist Church. Lunch is provided for a suggested $6 donation. Fridays: • Veteran’s Breakfast at the Village Inn in the Banquet Room the first Friday of every month. Doors open at 7 a.m. and the meeting starts at 8 a.m. Guest speakers will discuss topics that are important to local Veterans and their families. All veterans are welcome to attend.
February 22, 2020 11-4 pm Fashion Show 2 pm Free Admission
Meriweather Place 1070 Columbia Blvd St. Helens OR, 97051
WASHINGTON’S WASHINGTON’S BIRTHDAY BREAKFAST BIRTHDAY BREAKFAST Sunday, Feb. 16, 7:30 - 11 a.m.
Sunday, Feb. 15, 7:30-11 a.m. Clatskanie Masonic Lodge -
Clatskanie SE 2nd andMasonic ConyersLodge streets SE 2nd and Conyers streets
Sponsors:
Wedding Cakes Event Planner Photography Accessories Officiant Catering
Flowers Music Giveways Samples & more
Presented by Dianna’s Formal Affair Information: 503-397-3026 Columbiacountybridalexpo
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BREAKFAST BREAKFASTINCLUDES: INCLUDES: PANCAKES, , SAUSAGE, EGGS, EGGS, PANCAKESSAUSAGE, BLUEBERRIES, COFFEE AND JUICE OFFEE AND JUICE BLUEBERRIES, C
Adults 12) $312) $5 Adults$5 $8••Children Children(under (under
PROCEEDS TO SUPPORT LOCAL YOUTH PROJECTS PROCEEDS TO SUPPORT LOCAL YOUTH PROJECTS
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Rainier High Basketball looks to the playoffs LUKE E. ROTH For The Chief
As the playoffs approach at Rainier Junior/Senior High School, the boys basketball and wrestling teams find themselves in prime position to compete in their respective state tournaments. The girls basketball team members find themselves on the outside looking in. Boys basketball The Columbian boys are enjoying their first ever 8-0 start to league play. With a record of 14-7, ranked #15 in the state, as the regular season league champions, Rainier boys basketball would reach back to back state playoff appearances for the first time since they did in 2001 and 2002. This will also be their first league title since 2012. An X-factor along this run for the Columbians is senior guard Connor Rea. Averaging 20.6 points per game, Rea has taken a lot of games over down the stretch. “Our 8-0 start has been great, everyone has been playing well and we’re really starting to play our best basketball heading into playoff time,” Rea said. “I don’t worry too much about stats, I just try to let the game come to me and everything else will fall into place. All in all, our team confidence is at an all time high, and we think we’ll be a tough out for anyone come playoff time.” “This is my 3rd year at Rainier,” Coach Logan Nelson said. “This would mean everything to us. We put in a lot of work daily. 2012 was the last time Rainier won league. “We are on a mission to change that day in and day out,” Nelson said. PROJECTION The Rainier boys will win the Coastal Range League, and get the 8 seed going into the state tournament. This will result in them hosting a first round playoff game, and with a win sending them to Coos Bay, and the elite 8 for the first time in over a decade. Girls Basketball While the Lady Columbians have been plagued by off and on injuries all season,
a recent strong display over #1 Clatskanie provides them with some hope. The addition of junior guard Reese Schimmel who’s back off of an ankle injury will provide Rainier with a spark as the league playoffs come around. As it stands, Rainier would have to win three league playoff games in one week to make the playoffs for the first time since 2018. Currently at #28 with a record of 6-16, they’re ranked 5th in league.
The Rainier High School varsity boys basketball team.
Photo Courtesy of Luke E. Roth
PROJECTION The Lady Columbians have a legitimate chance to finish 3rd in league. They’d have to beat Warrenton and Taft before facing 3rd ranked Willamina or #1 Clatskanie with a state berth on the line. A victory over one of those two highly ranked sides would be very hard to come by. Wrestling The Columbians have been dominant over the last decade in wrestling, and almost always have an athlete place on the state stage. As a team the Columbians are #10 in the state, and have a few wrestlers ranked in their own respective weight classes: • Class 106 Freshman Hunter Hendricks, ranked #6 • Class 126 Sophomore Logan Chapman, ranked #5 • Class 145 Sophomore Gavin Fortelney, ranked #13. • Class 152 Senior Brandon Isaacson, ranked #3, with a record of 20-3. • Class 160 Senior David Katon, ranked #1, with a record of 20-5. • Class 182 Junior Korbin Howell, ranked #4, with a record of 16-5. David Katon, placed 2nd at the state meet last season and Isaacson, 3rd. PROJECTION With five wrestlers ranked in the top 5 or higher, the chances to bring home a state title is very high for the Columbians. Katon currently sits as the favorite, and for the other ranked wrestlers, they all look to be very confident, and not an easy individual to beat come state meet time. Follow the Rainier High sports teams at osaa.org, online at thechiefnews,com, and in the Friday print editions of The Chief.
Athletically Speaking:
Friday, February 14 • 4:30 p.m. JV Girls Basketball vs. Taft • 4:30 p.m. JV Boys Basketball vs. Taft in Upper Gym
Tuesday, February 18 • 4 p.m. MS Girls Basketball vs. Ilwaco Wednesday February 19 • 4 p.m. MS Wrestling Meet @Rainier
Saturday, February 15 • 10 a.m. HS District Wrestling @Amity HS Monday February 17 HS Boys @Girls Basketball League Playoffs: 5@4 (2/17), winner 5/4@3 (2/18), winner 5/4/3@2 (2/20), winner 5/4/3/2vs1 @McMinnville HS (2/22)
Thursday, February 20 • ProActive Coaching: featuring Rob Miller in the CMHS Auditorium: 3:30-4:30 for All Students/ Coaches “Choices to Reach Potential” 4:305:30 Dinner available in the CMHS commons 5:30-6:30 for all Parents/ Coaches/Community “Role of Parents in Athletics.”
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• 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. Rainier Police Department Jan. 28 • Two mirrors were reportedly stolen from a business. • Two suspicious males were reported going through a truck. Nothing of value was reported as missing. • Officers were dispatched to a report of a domestic disturbance. When officers arrived they found family members who were packing their belongings and denied any sort of disagreement. Jan. 30 • A report was made of a lost
Labradoodle. The dog found its way home after a mini outdoor adventure. • A concerned citizen called in a woman they were worried was ‘out of it’ and had been walking through traffic. The woman was located and given a courtesy transport to a residence. Feb. 1 • A motorist was pulled over for a traffic violation and was found to have an outstanding Clatsop County warrant. William Bagely, 56, of Kelso, was taken into custody and lodged at the jail on the warrant and additionally cited for DWS and driving uninsured. • A local business reported an unwanted subject at their location. The person was formally trespassed from the establishment. • A driver reported that they were the victim of a hit and run. Both parties came to the police department and an of-
Friday, February 14, 2020
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ficer assisted them exchange information. • An officer was called to a residence where the resident advised an unwanted person was there. After the parties spoke, the caller decided to allow the other person to stay.
Feb. 4 • Douglas Simonsen, 58, of Rainier, was taken into custody and lodged at the jail for violation of a conditional release agreement.
Feb. 2 • An officer responded to a complaint of a barking dog. While investigating the complaint, it was also noted that the sea lions were barking at the marina.
Feb. 7 • Troopers responded to a traffic complaint on HWY 30 near MP 17. The RP stated two vehicles were swerving in and out of traffic at a high rate of speed. Troopers were able to stop and contact both involved vehicles and perform and investigation. Troopers were unable to obtain probable cause that a crime had occurred and both drivers were released with a warning
Feb. 3 • An employee called to report that a man in their lobby appeared to be high on drugs as he was yelling and punching the air. After making contact with the individual, it was discovered that he had an outstanding Washington State Department of Corrections warrant. Blake Silsbee, 26, address unknown, was taken into custody and lodged at the jail.
Oregon State Police
Feb. 8 • At 9 a.m. Oregon State Police assisted ODOT with an abandoned RV that was dilapidated near milepost 34 on Highway 30.
Feb. 9 • At approximately 1:45 p.m. Oregon State Police stopped a vehicle on Hwy 30 near MP 39 for failing to drive within the lane. The driver and passengers all displayed signs of impairment. The two passengers were not wearing safety belts. The male passenger provided a false name and it was determined he had a felony warrant for escape from Department of Corrections-Washington State. The male passenger was taken into custody. Columbia County Sheriff’s DeputyNarcotics K-9 was deployed and alerted on the vehicle multiple times. Fentanyl patches, methamphetamine, suspected heroin and miscellaneous drug paraphilia was located. The driver and rear passenger were taken into custody on drug charges. All were transported to the Columbia County Jail. All three were booked and released on the drug charges and the male passenger was lodged on the outstanding
warrant. The vehicle was towed by Grumpy’s Towing. Feb. 10 • At about 12:42 p.m. the Oregon State Police stopped a vehicle on Millard Road after it made a dangerous left turn. The driver appeared to be trying to conceal something as soon as the emergency lights were activated and was slow to stop. The driver was immediately detained. Cover arrived on scene and small container with suspect methamphetamine was located where the driver was reaching. The driver was arrested and transported to the Columbia County Jail. The driver’s Probation Officer also placed a detainer on the driver for violation of all laws once we were at the jail. The driver was also issued citations for DWSviolation, Driving Uninsured and Dangerous Left Turn. The vehicle was towed by Drake’s as incident to arrest and hazard.
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