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FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 3, 2023
VOL. 132, NO. 26 Serving the Lower Columbia Region since 1891
Big Guy’s Nightmare on Nehalem a success WILL LOHRE Country Media, Inc.
In its first year, the Nightmare on Nehalem event presented by Big Guy in Clatskanie was a dream come true, as hundreds of kids flocked to the trick-or-treating event hosted on Halloween. As part of the fun, Big Guy hosted the trick-or-treat event in their parking lot and a Halloween costume party for adults at the bar on Oct. 28. Both components were a success, and the turnout symbolized a strong foundation to build off of in future years. For the kids Vicki Davis, owner of Big Guy and organizer of the event, said that close to 600 kids came to the Big Guy parking lot to trick-or-treat at the assorted tables, which were attended by a variety of local businesses and organizations. As part of the festivities, Davis and the restaurant gave out free corndogs, and Davis estimated that they gave out about 300 corndogs, with not every kid taking one. Some of the vendors who set up booths were the Rainier Eagles, Clatskanie Kiwanis, Wauna Federal Credit Union, House Valley Venue, Cryptid Cookie, the Clatskanie Fire Department, the Columbia County Sheriff’s Posse, and RainbowMarx Art, among others. One small setback for the event was that not all of the vendors who committed to setting up booths showed up. Despite that, the event was well attended, and Davis was happy with Nightmare on Nehalem Street overall. “I was a little bit disappointed; we had commitment for 25 vendors, and 14 showed up. So I need to find a way next year to secure the commitment,” Davis said. “We did have 14
Courtesy photo from Vicki Davis
The Nightmare on Nehalem Street featured 14 vendors and about 600 kids showed up, according to organizer Vicki Davis.
booths, we had music, we had lots of fun. I’ve been getting non-stop compliments from people sent to my page, thanking me and asking if we’re going to do it again. I think it was a huge success.” Even though there was a bit of disappointment about those who did not show up, the vendors who did were engaged and made the event a good time. Davis said that each booth was decked out in their own decorations, and the folks attending the booths were dressed to their spooky best in costumes. With all the kids who participated, it was hard to keep candy in stock for the entirety of the event, which lasted from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. “Several booths ran out of candy, then other booths gave them candy, a couple people went to the store and brought candy,” Davis said. “It was a big turnout, it was a lot of fun.” One adjustment Davis wants to make, in addition to securing the ven-
dors, is starting the event earlier. With all the kids who were trick-or-treating downtown following the children’s parade, Davis said starting earlier may help get even more kids out. For the adults While Big Guy wanted to make sure to offer a big family-friendly event for the community on Halloween, they also had something for the adults in Clatskanie. Big Guy hosted a costume party on Oct. 28 that saw the community come out in full force in the Halloween spirit. “We packed the house. I don’t think we could have had anymore people here than we had,” Davis said. “I think we had about 175 people here. Over 100 of them in costumes; the amount of adults that dressed up was unbelievable.” The party featured a photo booth, a raffle, and they collected cans to be donated to Turning Point. Davis said they collected about 125 cans of
Courtesy photo from Vicki Davis
Big Guy owner and organizer Vicki Davis with her booth during the event on Halloween.
food but emphasized that they will be continuing to collect cans for Turning Point through the holidays. The raffle, in which people could get tickets for purchasing items at the bar, was a smashing success. Davis said they had over 800 raffle tickets in the “bucket,” and they gave out 82 prizes to winners. The event also had a costume contest component, which they gave ten prizes and trophies for. The winners were announced at midnight. The last call was at 1:45 a.m., and the bar was busy the entire night. Davis said that there wasn’t a particular highlight from the event but that the whole night was special. “The amount of people that dressed up. I think last year, our first Halloween party that I did, probably had about 40 people in costume. This year we had like 100 people in costume. The amount of participation just wowed me for sure.” Going forward, Davis encouraged the community to follow Big Guy on
Facebook to stay up to date on events they have going on. One exciting promotion Big Guy has going for the month of November is a raffle for an invite to the VIP Holiday Party they will host. To enter, customers put their names on the back of a receipt and enter the receipt into a raffle to a party that is closed to the public. “Thanksgiving we draw 25 names, all of those people get to bring a plus-1. My staff all gets to bring a plus-1, and I bring in guest employees. We host a party for about 60 people, and last year it was a very fun big event. We did a gift exchange, lots of prizes, and all the food and drinks were complimentary. It was a lot of fun,” Davis said. Davis hopes to continue offering events for the people of Clatskanie. Davis emphasized that Big Guy is here for the families and told the community to “follow us, watch us, and see what we’re doing.”
Columbia County shop local for the holidays WILL LOHRE Country Media, Inc.
In an effort to increase local spending, Keep It Local Columbia County and the Columbia Economic Team are bringing back the Keep It Local for the Holidays drive program. The holiday campaign will run from Nov. 17 until Jan. 7 and encourages the people of Columbia County to spend their dollars on the home front. Sierra Trass is the Director of Keep It Local, and she said the campaign helps address the need for supporting local businesses. “73 percent of people that live in Columbia County work outside of Columbia County. It has huge implications to our local economy because if you think about it, three out of four people, every day, leave to go work, so that’s a lot of local spending not happening here,” Trass said. “We’re trying to encourage people to support their local businesses in the community
because this is where they live.” Grassroots beginnings
Trass said Keep It Local Columbia County started out as a grassroots movement to help people find and support local businesses. The Columbia Economic Team took over the program to provide more financial backing to the organization, according to Trass. The holiday campaign started out in 2016 as a grassroots program in Clatskanie that the Clatskanie Chamber of Commerce used to head. Before the pandemic, the campaign drove $96,000 of local spending, according to Trass. When Trass took over the program in 2021, she made efforts to market and recruit businesses to the program and has seen huge increases in local spending during the campaign as a result. “My first year was 2021, and
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Local spending campaign has seen exponential growth in the past two years.
Courtesy photo from Sierra Trass
Craft in Clatskanie at the Little Red Truck LAUREY WHITE Chief Guest Article
Kristin Strafford and Krystine Rose, owners of the Little Red Truck
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Design Company, a new business in Clatskanie, have been friends for more than 25 years. And for a great part of that time, they have shared a vision of what they would like to create in a business – an arts and crafts store that would encompass nearly every type of craft. And it all started with a little red truck. Both completely enamored with vintage trucks, particularly red ones, the idea of a shop was borne out of that fondness. It didn’t hurt that Rose had been gifted a vintage red pickup from her grandfather. “I drove it to Rainier High School every day,” Rose said. “And I loved every minute of it. My new dream is to acquire a 1955 International, and park it in front of the store.” As the years progressed the dream shape shifted into, in their words, something more sophisticated. Stafford’s mom owned a craft shop in Rainier for many years. Sadly, she passed away in 2022. Both ladies had worked in the store for her – truly a labor of love. When they knew it was time to close her beloved mother’s store, the ladies took the brakes off their dream and hit the accelerator. “At first, we were going to do it online,” Rose said. “But then things shifted again. We decided brick and mortar was the way to go, and we
Kristin Stafford (left) and Krystine Rose (right) cut the ribbon for the grand opening of their new business.
called our realtor.” Within a few days they had decided on Clatskanie. And quickly they found the perfect site. The duo sum up their company as warm, creative and inviting, adding that Little Red Truck is a brand that thrives on the spirit of the community and family. “Our audience is a diverse mix of makers, DIY enthusiasts, and those who appreciate the beauty of handmade goods,” Stafford and Rose said. “Our style is friendly, like a chat over
coffee with an old friend. We love to share stories about our products, the people who make them and the customers who love them.” “We love the community aspect of Clatskanie,” Stafford said. “And everybody has been so welcoming.” The store is located at 275 E. Columbia River Hwy. They offer curbside pickup, in-store pickup and in-store shopping. The store is packed full of goodies, just ready to pop into someone’s hands for a
Courtesy photo
winter of crafting while the rains come down. The store will feature classes in all types of arts and crafts and DIY efforts. Eventually they may add helpful classes such as how to refinish furniture and woodworking. “We have been friends for so many years, and we are the perfect business partners,” Stafford said. “We took art classes together for six years and have been together for many ups and downs of our lives. We can’t wait to meet our new customers!”
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Breaking the Cycle’ of Domestic Violence STAFF REPORT Country Media, Inc.
Oregon needs an integrated, over-arching strategy to best combat domestic violence, according to the Oregon Audits Division. The division has released an advisory report assessing Oregon’s role in addressing this issue and offering suggestions for improvement.[1] The report’s issuance is timely: October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month.
health care, and more. She said best practices require addressing domestic violence with an integrated approach. Memmott said services to prevent domestic violence in the first place are critical. It is equally important victims and survivors are able to protect themselves from abuse that has already occurred by quickly and easily accessing the wide-ranging services that are available. However, multiple barriers stand in the way of access. What the review found
Domestic violence is pervasive, immensely harmful, and often fatal. ~ Kip Memmott, Oregon Audits Director
Definition Domestic violence is behavior that one partner uses to control the other, according to the audit. It can include physical, sexual, and emotional abuse, as well as threats and economic control. Nationwide, 1 in 3 women, and 1 in 4 men, have been physically abused by an intimate partner. In Oregon, over a third of adults experience domestic violence in their lifetimes. “Domestic violence is pervasive, immensely harmful, and often fatal,” Oregon Audits Director Kip Memmott said. “This is an area where state government can do more to help. As auditors, we are uniquely positioned to provide state leaders with information and offer potential solutions on critical issues of public health and safety.” Because domestic violence seeps into every aspect of a victim’s life, Memmott said services to help must be similarly wide-ranging: emergency housing, assistance navigating the legal system, childcare, mental
Victims and survivors face multiple barriers to accessing community services and navigating the justice system. Systemic social welfare issues, such as the lack of available housing or access to services like childcare, mental health care, and legal assistance often translate to urgent unmet needs for domestic violence victims. Oregon advocates report fragmented and underresourced social services and complex criminal and civil justice systems contribute to access issues. Domestic violence service providers face high administrative burdens, staffing issues, and challenges expanding equitable outreach, prevention, and intervention services. Oregon lacks a centralized, statewide response to domestic violence and does not strategically address risks through statewide data-informed prevention, mitigation, or intervention-related action. Oregon could do more to coordinate strategies, share data, and effect change across otherwise siloed agency and organizational responses. Oregon’s role in addressing domestic violence, according to Memmott, is largely administrative and financial. State agencies pass through federal funds, including funding from the Violence Against Women Act and the Victims of Crime
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•C rossword S olutions • •
Solution for the Oct. 27, 2023 crossword puzzle
Courtesy photo
Domestic violence is behavior that one partner uses to control the other, according to the audit. It can include physical, sexual, and emotional abuse, as well as threats and economic control.
Act, and administer grants like the Oregon Domestic Violence and Sexual Violence Services Fund, aimed at community-based organizations providing these critical services. But the reliance on grants comes with substantial challenges, the audit summary states. According to advocates, direct funding to victims is often most helpful, but those types of grants are limited. Rigid grant requirements, including dictating what the money can be spent on and reporting on outcomes, can stifle efforts of resource-strapped organizations. For example, federally funded temporary domestic violence assistance grants, a primary source of direct victim funding, only provide up to $1,200 over a 90-day period. They are also only available for individuals who qualify for the federal Temporary Assistance for Needy Families program and who are either taking care of a minor child or currently pregnant. The grant was originally intended to help pay emergency rent, but the amount hasn’t increased since 1997, making it insufficient to cover most current rent payments. Because addressing domestic violence requires an integrated approach, Oregon
needs a similar over-arching strategy to be successful, Memmott said. Currently, many state agencies have roles to play. Unfortunately, there is no single state agency or entity responsible for coordinating a comprehensive statewide response or measuring the overall impact of ongoing efforts, she states. Suggested solutions Auditors have offered some suggested solutions.
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• Policymakers in the state should consider developing a statewide strategy to centralize resources and gather data. • Legislators could add stability by making flexible state funds permanent budget items, including adjusting them for inflation, rather than addressing needs through one-time funding. Fast Facts Nationwide, 1 in 3 women, and 1 in 4 men, have been physically abused by an intimate partner. In Oregon, over a third of adults experience domestic violence in their lifetimes.
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Astoria, two other ports to share $36,489,508 15% + 10% + 0% A FREE ESTIMATE OFF
STAFF REPORT Country Media, Inc.
Three Oregon ports, including Astoria, will share $36,489,508 in federal investments. Oregon’s U.S. Senators Jeff Merkley and Ron Wyden, along with U.S. Representatives Suzanne Bonamici and Val Hoyle, announced the funding Nov. 1 for Astoria, Coquille Indian Tribe’s Ko’Kwel Wharf, and Newport. “Ports play a crucial role in keeping the economies of Oregon and the entire Pacific Northwest running smoothly—transporting goods, people, and services throughout our region—and we rely on them to export our amazing, homegrown products around the world,” Merkley said. “This funding will provide crucial support to Astoria, the Coquille Indian Tribe, and Newport to improve existing infrastructure, increase storage capabilities, and bolster security while improving operational capacity for these critical ports.” “Oregon’s ports produce jobs and act as economic linchpins for their communities as well as the entire state economy,” Wyden said. “I’m glad these three ports have secured these significant federal infrastructure investments to ensure they can keep exporting our state’s world-renowned products as well as generating economic opportunities for Newport, Astoria, the Coquille Indian Tribe and beyond.” “Pier 2 West in Astoria is crucial to the region’s economy, but the structure has been deteriorating over the years,” Bonamici said. “I’m thrilled that the Port of Astoria will receive close to $25.3 million from USDOT to make overdue repairs to this essential infrastructure.” “I’m thrilled that the Port of Newport will be receiving this important grant to upgrade its port infrastructure,” Hoyle said. “This is exactly the type of support that the federal government should be providing to Oregon’s ports, which are essential for local jobs and businesses on the Oregon coast. I will continue to strongly sup-
port investment in Oregon’s coastal communities.” This past spring, Merkley, Wyden and Bonamici sent a letter to U.S. Maritime Administration urging their support for the Port of Astoria’s rehabilitation project application as well as a letter of support from Merkley and Wyden for the Newport operational capacity project application. The federal investments come from the Fiscal Year 2023 Port Infrastructure Development Program. “The Port of Astoria is extremely grateful to be a recipient of Port Infrastructure Development Program funding through MARAD for the rehabilitation of Pier 2 on the Astoria waterfront,” Port of Astoria Executive Director Will Isom said. “The seafood processing cluster on Pier 2 is vital to the Port, the City of Astoria and the entire region. Federal investment into this infrastructure was critical for its future and will help provide a safe, economically viable pier for generations to come!”
These enhancements make the Port more attractive to prospective customers and support economic opportunity in Lincoln County. ~ Paula Miranda, Port of Newport Executive Director
“The Port of Newport greatly appreciates the support of our Federal Legislators and the Maritime Administration for this investment in our International Terminal,” Port of Newport Executive Director Paula Miranda said. “We are also grateful for our state legislators, stakeholders and community for years of investment in our terminal. This will allow us to expand our operational capacity through the purchase of equipment and the improvement of a nine-acre parcel
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The federal investments come from the Fiscal Year 2023 Port Infrastructure Development Program.
for lay-down purposes. These enhancements make the Port more attractive to prospective customers and support economic opportunity in Lincoln County.” “The Coquille Indian Tribe is proud to take part in the nationwide effort to rebuild our port infrastructure. With this funding, our Tribal One team will continue their work to rebuild Ko’Kwel Wharf as a productive and reliable economic resource that will help secure the future of the Coquille Tribe and our North Bend community and become a valuable member of the nation’s maritime industry,” Coquille Indian Tribe Chair Brenda Meade said. The Oregon projects funding and descriptions $25,315,758 to Port of Astoria: This project funds the rehabilitation of the Port of Astoria’s Pier 2 West – the region’s hub for seafood processing and maritime commerce – which is in critical need of repairs and rehabilitation. Project elements include: 1) A new steel bulkhead wall with a 75-year lifespan and that will include a new fendering system, 50 ton double bitt bollards, and a cast-in-place concrete bullrail. 2) Removal of the old timber dock. 3) Backfill. 4) Underpinning of the Pier 2 warehouse. 5) Warehouse building concrete slab repairs. 6) New concrete pavement on the pier surface. 7) Construction of a
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stormwater drainage system. 8) Replacement of a water line and fire hydrants adjacent to the warehouse for fire protection of Pier 2. $3,444,100 to Port of Newport: This project and funding will support the Port of Newport in the grading of nine acres of land adjacent to the port’s existing Newport International Terminal to create additional laydown and storage space; fence three acres of land for increased security; and purchase two loaders to load, unload and move cargo within and around the port, especially breakbulk cargo, which the port’s current cargo handling equipment is not well suited to safely and efficiently handle. These improvements to the Newport International Terminal enable the Port of Newport to continue to support the economic development and prosperity of the Oregon Coast. $7,729,650 to Coquille Indian Tribe: This project funds the following three components: 1) Repairs of the dock face along Lot 2 of Ko’Kwel Wharf that will bring the entire dock area up to safe operating standards and open opportunities for new uses of the terminal and wharf facility. 2) Bring 800-amp service and a shore power outlet box to the wharf to reduce or eliminate the need for idling diesel engines. 3) Support development phase activities leading to the construction of a 600’-700’ extension of the Ko’Kwel Wharf dock.
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InRoads Credit Union expanding to Hillsboro STAFF REPORT Country Media, Inc.
For the first time, InRoads Credit Union will expand its physical presence into Washington County, with a new branch location recently selected in Hillsboro, Oregon. Located in the Orenco Station district at 6175 NE Cornell Rd., a tentative open date for the 2,400-square-foot space has been set for summer of 2024. Actively seeking to hire bilingual staff (Spanish and English) to staff the branch, InRoads is working to meet the growing needs of the community. Moreover, its responsive community
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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. For specific details about cases listed, contact the appropriate law enforcement agency. Rainier Police Department
InRoads’ commitment to community engagement is already taking shape as the team connects locally with Hillsboro schools and organizations. For example, InRoads is working on introducing programs that have shown success in other schools, like its Financial Reality Fair, an event during which high school students are given a persona and must make real-life spending decisions with a monthly budget. “We are eager to join the Hillsboro community,” said Cox. “When we open our doors, we’ll be celebrating with special offers as well as hosting community events that make financial wellness more approachable
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• An officer responded to a parking complaint. The vehicle operator was given a warning for failing to display the handicap placard. • A concerned citizen reported seeing a man leaning over the bridge. No one was at the location upon officer arrival. October 15 • An officer was called to a disturbance. Peace was restored. • A caller reported a suspicious man that was throwing trash on the ground. No one in the area matched the description of the man. October 16 • An officer conducted a welfare check on a citizen. They were found to be okay.
October 14 • Several cell phones were turned in as found property.
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involvement combined with a wide range of services — including personal and business banking, small business loans, mortgages, financial planning and more — will contribute to the advancement of the area. “By extending our virtual presence into a physical one, we’ll be able to better serve our current members as well as form relationships with new consumers and small business owners,” President/ CEO of InRoads Credit Union Nathan Cox said. “Our goal is to help folks along their financial journey, which is the approach we’ve had with our members in Columbia County for the last 85 years.”
and communal.” About InRoads Credit Union Proud to be a not-forprofit, community-focused, member-owned financial cooperative, InRoads Credit Union was established in 1938 and holds over $360 million in assets. Membership is open to anyone who lives, works, attends school, volunteers, or worships in Columbia, Clatsop, Cowlitz, Multnomah and Washington Counties, along with immediate family who are existing InRoads members. In addition to the incoming Hillsboro location, InRoads has locations in Scappoose, St. Helens and Rainier.
Courtesy photo from InRoads Credit Union The new InRoads location in Hillsboro will be located at 6175 NE Cornell Rd.
Bonamici town halls converted to telephone town hall
• An officer was dispatched to a motor vehicle accident. No one was in the area upon arrival. • A caller was concerned about the welfare of a disabled motorist. The subject was working on their vehicle. October 19 • A caller was concerned about a person that appeared to be passed out in a vehicle. An officer contacted the individual who advised they were homeless and sleeping in their car. October 21 • A resident called as a person parked their vehicle, blocking the caller’s driveway. The owner of the vehicle was given a warning and they moved their car.
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Jeremy C. Ruark / Country Media, Inc.
Oregon Congresswoman Suzanne Bonamici answers questions from the audience at an 2019 town hall in Clatskanie. STAFF REPORT Country Media, Inc.
Congresswoman Suzanne Bonamici (OR-01) announced on Oct. 31 that she will hold a telephone town hall meeting on Monday, Nov. 6, at 6 p.m. PT. The U.S. House of Representatives has changed its schedule and representa-
tives will now need to be in Washington, D.C. on dates that conflict with previously scheduled in-person town hall meetings. The meetings are canceled for Portland on Nov. 6, St. Helens on Nov. 7, and Hillsboro on Nov. 9. Because Rep. Bonamici will be in Washington, D.C., on those dates, she is offering an opportunity for constitu-
ents to participate in a town hall meeting by telephone. Anyone interested in participating in the telephone town hall meeting can sign up to receive a call https:// bonamici.house.gov/live. The telephone town hall meeting will also be livestreamed https://bonamici.house.gov/ live.
Peggy Congleton Hawkins Dec. 30, 1929 ~ Sept. 29, 2023 Peggy Congleton Hawkins, 93, passed on Sept. 29, 2023 with her daughters, Barbara Faulk (Raymond) and Linda Borgstrom at her side. She met the love of her life, Harold Ray Hawkins, at a dance. They were married six weeks later. Their marriage lasted 68 years. Ray passed away in 2014 at the age of 90. She is survived by her two daughters; three
grandchildren; 17 greatgrandchildren; and seven great-great-grandchildren. The family moved to Clatskanie in 1967, making many friends over the years. They enjoyed fishing and hunting. Peggy always had a flower and vegetable gardens and loved to cook and bake. Peggy is interred with Ray at Willamette National Cemetery with a lovely view of Mt. Hood.
Richard J. White
Nov. 29, 1938 ~ Aug. 29, 2023 Richard White died Tues., Aug. 29, 2023 at home after a yearlong battle with cancer. His wife was by his side. Rick was born in San Diego, California and later moved to Portland. Rick was a 1956 graduate of Jefferson High. He was a member of Local 16 Sheet Metal and retired in 2004. Rick loved racing his 70’ Cuda at PIR in the early 1970’s. Rick is survived by his wife of 49 years Jackie (Crape); his children from owned businesses. SPENDING locally Trass said the campaign
From Page A1 $391,000 in local spending. Last year was $559,000 in local spending,” Trass said. “It’s my new record.” Wonderland Cards Keep It Local keeps track of the spending with “Wonderland Cards,” which are similar to stamp cards for shopping locally. The card has 20 squares worth $10. If shoppers complete 20 squares, that’s the equivalent of $200 of local spending. When cards are completed, shoppers can drop off their Wonderland Cards at various businesses. At the end of the campaign, Trass “meticulously” goes through all the cards and adds up the totals. When people have filled out their full card filled out, they can turn it in and start putting spending towards their next card. For the purpose of the campaign, Trass said that they try to make sure that the spending is centered on
supports some home businesses as well. “Locally owned is my general rule of thumb, it’s always a grey line defining what’s local, but you know it when you see it,” Trass said. As if supporting local businesses is not enough of an incentive, turning in completed Wonderland Cards enters people into a raffle. The biggest prize is a $1,500 cash prize. Trass said there are more than 20 other prizes that include gift cards to local restaurants, gift baskets, and other items donated by local businesses. This year, the campaign will look a little different as Keep It Local integrates the Find It Local Columbia County app. “The app has the ability to do passports and trails, so we’re going to try it out for the first time over the holidays. What that will look like is we’re going to hide a bigfoot with a Santa hat in businesses that participate across the county,” Trass said. “People will go looking for bigfoot, and once
his prior marriage, Angela Jones (Kenny), Rhonda White, and Richard D. White (Che Che); grandchildren, Thomas and Sarah; brother Craig Satalick (Brenda); niece Jenene; and nephew Jeremy. Rick was preceded in death by his daughter Lori White in 2011; his parents; and brother Donny. At his request there will be no service. Any donations may be made to the Oregon Humane Society. people find 12 bigfoots, it has a code with each bigfoot that they can put into the mobile app.” People can take their app with the codes to any of the Wonderland Card drop-off locations, and they will receive a free ornament and a chance to win $500. Another new component is a coupon booklet that they are selling for $15. The booklet has deals from the participating businesses, and the coupons are good from Nov. 17 until the end of February. Trass said the booklet will have hundreds of dollars of value. Some of the sponsors that make the event possible are platinum sponsor Wauna Credit Union, Richardson’s Furniture, Sass at Home, Dahlgrens Builder Supply, Crooked Creek Brewery, InRoads Credit Union, Clatskanie PUD, and Columbia River PUD. For businesses interested in participating, the deadline is Friday, Nov. 3. Those interested in participating should contact Sierra Trass at sierra@ columbiacountyoregon.com.
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•N ews and V iews • •
This could be a good mushroom year CHIP BUBL
Clatskanie Grows Chief Guest Column
Western Oregon is known for its incredibly diverse mushroom species. One scientist once estimated that we have over 850 species. Few other locations come close. Most of the show is in the fall where cool weather and good soil moisture make for flourishing fungi. Last year, we came into fall with no rain from mid-June until late October. As a result, the mushroom show was hit hard. The recent rain events combined with some warmth bode well for mushrooms.
The most popular fall mushroom is the chanterelle. Orange chanterelles are most common but there is a white version as well. They are generally found in mixed conifer forests of Douglas fir and/or cedar with Oregon grape and sword ferns as part of the understory. I have had better luck in the Oregon grape locations but others say that it doesn’t matter. There are many other species including truffles (https://extension.oregonstate.edu/catalog/pub/em9369-oregon-native-edibletruffles) , the king bolete (prefers oddly the highest elevations or the beach), the wood blewit, and right now, the oyster mushroom on dying alder trees. You will need a good mushroom book (the best pocket book is still All the Rain Promises and More by David Arora) or better yet, a good book and good friend that knows their mushrooms.
Metro Creative Connection
intentions, varieties planted (with dates), observations, and results. Finally, many gardeners don’t realize the potential for raising “small fruits” in the garden. Gooseberries, currents, blueberries, lingonberries and the trailing blackberries like Marion and Logan berries produce lots of fruit in modest space. There are two great retail nurseries in the northwest that specialize in tree fruits, small fruits and all manner of exotic fruit. You should visit their web sites to see their catalogs: One Green World www.onegreenworld.com and Raintree Nursery www. raintreenursery.com Time to transplant Gardeners often discover that the place they planted a tree, shrub, or herbaceous perennial isn’t the perfect location. Roses that are mildly prone to black spot might improve greatly if given more sun. Anyway, most of our plants that lose their leaves have already done so and are dormant. Evergreens like rhododendrons or needled evergreens are also dormant. The ground isn’t sopping wet yet, either. So this is the perfect time to move them if you have been thinking about it. Shallow-rooted plants like rhodies and blueberries are relatively easy to pry up. Other woody plants take more digging and root cutting to get a “root ball” that can be lifted. Those root balls get heavy and some trees are simply not possible to move without proper equipment. Have a hole ready, cover the roots with soil, place several inches of mulch around the area and water deeply. You are done. Using manure in the garden
Plan your garden This month is an ideal time to make notes, resolutions, and plans for next year’s garden. The mistakes of the past year (for me, too many tomatoes, some early direct seed failures with green beans, and not enough winter greens, etc.) should be countered with a plan that both corrects the errors of the past and allows room for new experiments. The notes, resolutions, and plans don’t have to be extensive. A garden notebook is very useful as a permanent record of your
Cow, sheep, goat, llama, alpaca, or horse manure is a great addition to any garden. It improves soil structure and supplies valuable minerals. However, there is a concern is possible transmission of disease organisms, especially the human pathogenic O57 strain of the bacteria E. coli. This strain is mostly in cow manure. Research shows that manure worked into a field in the fall and planted the following spring would not be at risk for disease. One approach is to work manure into the garden (along with some lime if you haven’t limed lately)
in the fall before the rains start and either plant a cover crop or cover with a nonmanure mulch like leaves or black plastic to preserve surface soil tilth. If you cover the bed with plastic, make sure the manure stays moist enough over the winter to compost. Periodically remove and replace the cover for some rain. Manure can still be applied to the garden surface if the ground isn’t too soft and can be left uncovered. I remain very concerned about the use of manure tea during the growing season or fresh manure applied directly to crops due to the human pathogen risks. Wellcomposted manure should be fine at any time. Important notes • Donate extra garden produce and/or money to the food bank, senior centers, or community meals programs. It always is greatly appreciated. • The Extension Service offers its programs and materials equally to all people. The OSU Extension Office is fully open from 8 a.m. - 5 p.m. Have questions? If you have questions on any of these topics or other home garden and/ or farm questions, please contact Chip Bubl, Oregon State University Extension office in St. Helens at 503397-3462 or at chip.bubl@ oregonstate.edu. The office is open from 8 a.m. - 5 p.m. Monday through Friday. 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 http:// extension.oregonstate.edu/ columbia/ and click on newsletters.
Will Lohre Editor
•C ommunity E vents • •
November 4 Fall Bazaar The Rainier Oregon Historical Museum will have two sales tables at the Rainier Senior Center bazaar to be held on Saturday, November 4, from 9 to 3. The museum will be offering baked goods, crafts and museum momentoes for sale. Anyone wishing to contribute baked goods for sale should bring them to the museum sales tables between 8 and 9 on Nov. 4, Saturday morning. Membership applications will be available for those wishing to join the museum, renew, or extend their membership. We are looking forward to seeing you there! November 7 Free Diabetes Testing 9:30 a.m. - 1 p.m. in Community Room at Columbia Pacific Food Bank, 1421 Columbia Blvd., St. Helens. Diabetes is a global epidemic - Get tested for free. Sponsored by St. Helens Lions Club of Lions Clubs International in cooperation with Columbia Health Services. Up to 30 tests available.
Oregon State University Extension Service 505 N Columbia River Highway St. Helens 503-397-3462
Jeremy C. Ruark Regional Executive Editor
November 12 Oregon Symphonic Band performance honoring veterans 3 p.m. at the Donavon Wooley PAC at Clatskanie Middle/ High School. Veterans, band students and children admitted free. Tickets available at clatskaniearts.org. Ongoing Clatskanie Senior Center lunches Clatskanie Senior Center Lunches now served Monday, Wednesday, and Friday at noon at the Castle Cafe, 620 SW Tichenor. Call 503-7283608 for reservations. Use ground floor entrance to the left of front stairs. Good parking in back off of SW Bryant Street. Castle Tours available by appointment, includes Clatskanie Historical Society museum. Call Debbie at 503338-8268. Caples Evening Programs The cost for this evening and all our Fireside Chats will be only $5. Caples will be offering a different program the third Tuesday of each month at 7 p.m. at 1925 First Street in Columbia City. For more information, call 503-397-5390.
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The Rainier Public Library is open from 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays, 10:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. on Fridays and 10:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. on Saturdays. It will be closed Sundays and Mondays. Avamere at St. Helens hosts a Virtual Dementia Support Group – 3rd Wednesday of each month from 2 p.m. to 3 p.m. For more details, contact Jenny Hicks/Avamere at St. Helens at 503-366-8070.
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41.7% Yes 58.3% No
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The Rainier Oregon Historical Museum (ROHM) is open from noon - 4 p.m. Saturday (except major holidays weekends). ROHM is located inside Rainier City Hall at 106 W B Street. For more information, call 360-751-7039.
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Lower Columbia River Watershed Council Lower Columbia Watershed Council meets the second Monday of the month at 6:30 p.m. in the Clatskanie PUD building. Zoom links are also available. Visit the council’s website for agenda postings and Zoom at www.lowercolumbiariver.org/events-page.
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will host its next Dog & Cat Vaccination Clinic on Tuesday November 7 from 9:00-11:00 AM and 1:30- 3:30 PM at the Johnson Feed Store. 905 NE Van St. in Clatskanie. See www. pippindoc.com for more details.
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•C rossword P uzzle • • STATEPOINT CROSSWORD THEME: FAMOUS SCIENTISTS ACROSS
1. Dylan lyric, “There was music in the ____ at night and revolution in the air” 6. *Many scientists have this 9. Alpha Centauri B, e.g. 13. Measured in kilowatthours, on electric bill 14. Ring of flowers 15. TV’s “____ Blinders” 16. Make believe 17. Public promotions 18. Appropriate for Halloween 19. *F unit of capacitance named in whose honor? 21. *Marine biologist and “Silent Spring” author 23. L.A. baller 24. Not on a rolling stone? 25. Value added reseller 28. New Zealand fruit 30. Option at a hot dog stand, adj. 35. One’s final notice 37. Without, in French 39. Time being 40. Toy construction set brand 41. Turning token taker 43. Jewish month 44. Jab on field of play 46. A ride up ski hill 47. Short for Milton 48. *A unit of electric current named in whose honor? 50. Home to Zion National
Park 52. Wood-shaping tool 53. Morays, pl. 55. One little piggy 57. *A telescope was named in his honor 60. *Primatologist and world’s foremost expert on chimpanzees 64. Popular snorkeler’s attraction 65. Have a cold 67. Sphere in Las Vegas, e.g. 68. Pond buildup 69. To and ____ 70. Gives off 71. Goes with a rod 72. Small dog’s bark 73. Tears down
DOWN
1. Take into custody 2. On a deck? 3. So-so 4. a.k.a. tent caterpillar or lappet moth 5. Maurice of “Where the Wild Things Are” 6. Eugene O’Neill’s creation 7. He had 8. Popular 70s genre 9. Witnesses 10. Hawaiian tuber 11. Similar 12. Kind of bourbon 15. P in POI 20. Out of whack
22. Cleopatra’s killer, according to legend 24. Not a full size bus 25. *V unit of electric potential named in whose honor? 26. Crosswise, on deck 27. Build temporarily (2 words) 29. *W unit of power named in whose honor? 31. Type of rich soil 32. Most populous country 33. Burn with water 34. *Synonymous with unit of frequency and a car rental company 36. Muscle quality 38. Floor plank 42. Muse of love poetry 45. The ____makers of “Pitch Perfect” 49. #53 Across, sing. 51. Vacuum cleaner, in U.K. 54. Like kale or spinach 56. Swelling of human organs 57. Golfer’s destination 58. Desires 59. Ancient Semitic deity 60. Lump of stuff 61. Black tropical cuckoos 62. Guitar forerunner 63. Is it really more? 64. *Carl Benz invented the first practical modern one in the 1880s 66. Retirement plan, acr.
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Volleyball wrap, football playoff preview WILL LOHRE Country Media, Inc.
Clatskanie Middle/High School had two programs qualify for the state playoffs this year. While the volleyball team’s season has come to an end, the Tigers football team still has a chance to make some noise in the postseason. Let’s take a look back on the season the volleyball team enjoyed and look ahead to what the first-round matchup between Clatskanie and Lowell may have in store. Football playoff preview After a slow 0-3 start to the season, the Tigers finished the season in style, beating Vernonia/Jewell 49-6 to cap off a six-game winning streak. After losing their two preseason games and taking a league loss to league champions Gaston in week 3, the team went unbeaten in their remaining league games en route to a 6-1 league record. The Tigers’ results were good enough to net them a secondplace finish in 2A-SD1 Special District 1. In their first-round game, the Tigers will travel to Lowell to face off with the #3 overall-ranked Lowell Devils on Nov. 3. Lowell had an impressive season, going 8-1 for the year and finishing atop 2A-SD2 Special District 2. The Devils’
The Clatskanie Tigers will look to advance past the first round in their game Nov. 3.
only loss of the season was in a non-league game against the top-ranked team in the state, Weston-McEwen/Griswold, on Sept. 23. Lowell boasts a highscoring offense, and the team scored more than 40 points in every game this season other than their loss to Weston-McEwen/Griswold. In their eight wins, Lowell has beaten opponents by an average of about 43 points. Coming in as the 14-seed in the tournament, Clatskanie will hope to harness the momentum of their recent run to complete an upset win. While the offense hasn’t put up eyepopping numbers like Lowell, the Tigers will hope their
defensive intensity can throw the Devils off their game and give them an opportunity to pounce on mistakes. Whatever the result, this year has shown strong improvement for Head Coach Sean Gorley and his team. Last year, Clatskanie entered the playoffs as the last seed with a 3-6 overall record. With more wins coming into the postseason and an above .500 record, the Lions will hope to carry their improvement into the first round and beyond. Volleyball wrap The Clatskanie Varsity Volleyball team was knocked out of the first round of the
Courtesy photo
state playoffs against Santiam on Oct. 28. Santiam beat the Tigers 3-0, by scores of 2325, 16-25, 20-25. It was a close-fought battle, and the loss came down to some unfortunate mistakes, according to Head Coach Amanda Baker. “Some of the best defense and serve receive I have seen from these girls all year. And we were connecting on offense as well. Unfortunately, we could not overcome the unforced errors,” Baker said following the loss. The usual suspects played well for the Tigers, with Natalie Baker leading the charge with ten kills, six stuff blocks, 12 digs, and a perfect 3.0 serve-receive passing.
Lacey Willis added five kills, 11 digs, and nearly as perfect serve-receive passing as Baker with a 2.4 average; she also added an ace and had one of the highest serving percentages on the team today at 92%. McKinsey Doyle, libero, had 11 digs and contributed greatly on serve receive as well. Despite the tough loss, Baker is walking away from the season with a positive mindset, reinforced by the growth the team exhibited this year. “We made so much growth this season; we are walking away hungry for more,” Baker said. “As far as changes for next year, hopefully, everyone will be returning, now with a bit of high school experience under their belt.” The team improved markedly from last year. While the Tigers made the playoffs and lost in the first round last season, they finished the season with an 8-9 overall record and made the tournament as the 22nd-ranked 2A team. This season, their 15-9 overall record and 9th OSAA 2A ranking show an improvement from last year. The success wouldn’t have been possible without the contributions from the whole team, but also the stand-out individuals within the program. Clatskanie’s team fea-
tured multiple athletes who received All-League honors. Natalie Baker was named to the 1st team. Joey Sizemore and Lacey Willis were 2nd team, and McKinsey Doyle received an honorable mention. While the team gave it their all on the court this season, Baker also noted that the team also show their passion off the court in the way they give back. “They show great pride in their school and all activities they are involved in,” Baker said. “An example: at the beginning of our season, someone casually mentioned they thought the girls’ locker room was a bit out of date with its ugly yellow lockers, and within a few days, girls were volunteering their time and had them all repainted. They are just a special group of girls who are willing to put in the work to get what they want.” The Tigers are hungry going into next season, and while Baker wishes they could have extended the season one more week, she’s happy with another season of growth and improvement for the future. “This is a great group of girls who will continue their athletic and academic endeavors, making a positive impact in the school,” Baker said.
Columbia Pacific Food Bank at work
County.” Marquardt said that Columbia Pacific Food Bank may be located in St. Helens, but they distribute food to Scappoose, Rainier, Clatskanie, Vernonia, and other food pantries and partner agencies around Columbia County. Some of the items that Marquardt is hoping will be donated are shelf-stable products. Examples of these would be canned goods or pasta. The food bank will also accept produce and meat, but there are some limitations. “When we put together our emergency food boxes for our clients, the majority of the items in those boxes are shelf-stable goods. We can accept meat, but it has to be USDA certified,” Marquardt said. “We also accept fresh produce. Please bring your produce to the food bank because we have that free produce area that is open to the public, and people will come and take those. I would say shelf-stable products, fresh produce, depending on the time of the year, and then meat in that order.” The collection barrel for the drive will be at the Columbia Pacific Food Bank, and as TexCo Cleaning collects items to be donated, they will bring them to the donation site.
County Food drive for the holidays WILL LOHRE Country Media, Inc.
A local cleaning company is partnering with the Columbia Pacific Food Bank to give back to the community this holiday season. Scappoose based TexCo Cleaning is offering a special deal if people donate five cans of food to the Columbia Pacific Food Bank for a Thanksgiving food drive. “We partnered with the Columbia County food bank; that way we are giving back to those who are struggling right now with the inflation rates, with the unemployment rates, with recent businesses closing in Columbia County,” TexCo co-owner James Lee said. “There’s a need out here that isn’t being helped by the Portland metro area.” Chrissy Marquardt, who is the Marketing and Events Manager for Columbia Pacific Food Bank, said that partnerships like this are critical as they see more people come through the door looking for resources. This coincides with a decrease in food being supplied to the food bank at a regional and national level. “It is a great way to give back to the community. Of course, the dollars can go far, but actual food, especially during the holidays, as more
people are going to come in the door, it’s a wonderful partnership,” Marquardt said. “Plus, it’s a chance to promote and support a local business as well.” The drive will last from Nov. 1 until Nov. 20. The special deal is that after paying the minimum rate of $175 for cleaning, TexCo Cleaning will waive the cost of cleaning additional rooms with a donation of canned goods. “So if they donate five canned goods or food products or whatever they would like, then we will clean secondary areas for free, which is normally a $45 value,” Lee said. The fee is to support travel to the house and the standard cleaning fee. People often will pay for treatments or additional rooms, but with a donation, the additional fee will be waived. Lee is part owner of TexCo Cleaning, but his fulltime job is as a firefighter in Hillsboro. Though his business partner handles the carpet cleaning full-time, Lee said he has formed strong relationships within the community that have inspired him to give back. “We wanted to make sure that we were giving back and supporting the community that supports us,” Lee said.
Courtesy photo from Chrissy Marquardt
Chrissy Marquardt, Marketing & Events Director at Columbia Pacific Food Bank with a donation barrel during a past food drive.
Lee said that this effort is part of trying to maintain the small-town community culture that exists throughout Columbia County. Lee said that giving back in smaller communities feels more personal. Lee wanted to make sure that people know that their customer base is not limited to Columbia County. They
are letting all their customers in Multnomah County, Washington County, and others know about the deal. “Even those customers that are not in the Columbia County food bank area can donate, participate in the program, and then we will donate it all back to the Columbia County food bank,” Lee said.
Marquardt said that TexCo Cleaning reached out to the food bank, and she appreciated their proactive approach. Marquardt noted that sometimes, organizations will host food drives and show up with large quantities of food without communicating that they are doing it. While the food bank always appreciates the donations, Marquardt said that a “heads up” is appreciated for planning purposes so the food bank can accurately keep an inventory of what they have in stock and what food products they need. Marquardt said during regular business hours, on average, the food bank serves between 30 and 50 clients per day. During their evening hours, which are once a week on Wednesdays, the food bank serves anywhere from 10 to 20 families. “Probably anywhere from between 600 to 1,000 families per month that pass through our doors. Sometimes, those are repeat customers, sometimes those are brand new clients,” Marquardt said. “The food bank, just statistically speaking, we distribute anywhere between 12 to 18 tons of food per week throughout Columbia
Columbia County HUB looking for young entrepreneur
Holiday Bazaar Holiday Bazaar and Bake Sale November 10 and 11, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. St. Helens Community Bible Church 35031 Millard Road
Plymouth Presbyterian Church Annual Bazaar Saturday, November 18 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. 2615 Sykes Road, St. Helens
49th Annual Arts & Crafts Faire “Celebrate Traditions” Christ Episcopal Church Nov. 11 from 9-4 at 35350 E. Division Road.
SUBMITTED BY COLUMBIA COUNTY HUB
Columbia County Helping Undo Boundaries (HUB), a local nonprofit geared towards providing youth enrichment services, is eager to announce an exciting program geared towards opening a new business in Columbia County in 2024. This program will launch in Spring of 2024 and will offer a young person between the ages of 16-26 with start up costs to launch their own dream. This summer, board members; Amanda Normine, Gretchen Witt, and Alaina Schumann met together multiple times with the culmination of their efforts being program that offers a financial training course which will wrap up with a Shark Tank / Voice type competition where $12,500 in start-up funds will be awarded to the winner. This program will launch in the Spring of 2024 offering classes, both in person and online, to the general public of Columbia County. These classes will focus on topics such as financial planning, marketing, small business basics, and a round table with current business owners. Once the classes
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Courtesy photo from Amanda Normine
CCHUB Board members Amanda Normine, Gretchen Witt, and Alaina Schumann.
wrap up, in early Summer, those who completed the program (and who are age qualified) will have an opportunity to submit a business plan for consideration as a contestant. At that point all business plans will be reviewed by a panel of judges and the top five will be selected to compete in a contest that will take the community by storm throughout next
summer. The contest will include each contestant being teamed up with a local business owner (there is the Voice part) where they will tackle the contest as a team. Contestants will also be given set marketing budgets and will be required to compete in a very fair financial playing field where they highlight their products and services across the community. As a final part of the
program a large community event will be held where the public can vote for their favorite idea and then the top three will compete in a Shark Tank type contest which will take place in the Fall. The winner of that contest will be selected by a panel of judges who come from the local business and banking community. The Columbia County H.U.B. board is currently hard at work raising funds for this program and at this time half of the budget has been raised, and two large fundraisers are currently in full swing. One fundraiser is a raffle which is being offered in partnership with the Vault and the other is a Shop Small event that will be held at Wild Currant Catering on Small Business Saturday in November. A huge thank you to Columbia River PUD as they are the premier sponsor and awarded this their business development grant in August of this year. Aside from fundraising, the board is also actively recruiting mentors, volunteers, and speakers. If you are interested, please reach out to Amanda Normine at amanda@ normine-lombard.com or message the Columbia County HUB Facebook page.