Honoring Veterans
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FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 10, 2023
VOL. 132, NO. 27 Serving the Lower Columbia Region since 1891
American Legion hosts annual Veterans Day dinner WILL LOHRE Country Media, Inc. To honor veterans, the American Legion Post #68 in Clatskanie will host its annual Veterans Day dinner this Saturday. The dinner will be hosted at the Legion Hall, and American Legion Commander for Clatskanie Jerry Simmons spoke with the Chief about the event and what he expects it will look like this year.
Sometimes we were at war, sometimes we weren’t, but we were all serving this nation. And it is important to recognize all veterans, those from the past who have passed away ever since this nation was formed ~ Jerry Simmons, Clatskanie American Legion Commander
“We have a Veterans Day dinner, and we do it on Veterans Day, Nov. 11. We start at six o’clock. The Auxiliary is fixing the dinner, as they typically have done in the past,” Simmons said. “We have it for the veterans and their families.” Attendance at the event has seen between 60 and 120 people show up for the dinner. The 60-person figure was a low number due to COVID-19, but Simmons said that about 75-85 people typically attend. The dinner will include a guest
speaker appearance from former Department Commander for the State of Oregon, Don Weber. Honoring veterans Simmons said that events like these are essential because it’s necessary to recognize the service that veterans have provided the United States. “Less than ten percent of this nation are veterans. It’s important, I think, and I think all veterans feel the same way, to recognize the service that we went through,” Simmons said. “Sometimes we were at war, sometimes we weren’t, but we were all serving this nation. And it is important to recognize all veterans, those from the past who have passed away ever since this nation was formed.” While less than ten percent of the nation may not be veterans, Simmons said that both Columbia County and Clatskanie have a high percentage of veterans. “How many [veterans] we have here in Clatskanie, I don’t know, but there’s an awful lot of us,” Simmons said. The dinner at the Legion Hall offers a valuable opportunity for the veterans to come together and “communicate with one another.” Simmons said that he can see what events like this mean based on the turnout he sees at the veterans’ breakfasts on the first Thursday of each month. About 30-40 people show up for that breakfast each month. The value of coming together partly stems from the comfort of being around those with a shared experience. The relationship
Kelli Nicholson / Country Media, Inc.
The Clatskanie Veterans Memorial.
between veterans is something Simmons described as a “bond.” “If you’re not a veteran, you don’t understand it. It’s something that we all went through. Some of us were in war; some were not. But we all served, and we all have that in common,” Simmons said. “We can talk about our experiences to one another; we can understand that. Whereas, if we talk about some of the things that we went through with a civilian, somebody who was never in the service, it doesn’t resonate.” Simmons said he doesn’t have another way to describe the bond other than that veterans feel “comfortable” around others with similar experiences. The dinner this Veterans Day will offer a chance to come together and honor the service of veterans past and present.
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Clatskanie American Legion Hall will host their annual Veterans Day dinner this week. At the front of the hall there will be a small table, set as a reminder of military personnel who are Missing in Action or Prisoners of War.
Clatskanie City Council welcomes new member WILL LOHRE Country Media, Inc.
Following a 4-3 Clatskanie City Council vote, Russell Finney-Leggroan was selected as the council’s newest member. Finney-Leggroan was welcomed to the council during their most recent meeting on Nov. 1 and will fill the vacancy after Jim Helmen resigned in September. “We received two letters of interest. One is from local citizen Bob Emminger, and the second is from Russell. Both gentlemen appeared before the City Council last night and gave a brief pitch as to why they wanted to serve,” City Manager Greg Hinkelman on Nov. 2. “The sitting councilors were allowed to ask questions, of which a couple did. A vote then took place with a 3-3 tie. Legal counsel then instructed the mayor
to make the decision, which he chose Russell.” Hinkelman said that all the councilors “were appreciative of both candidates and also expressed that it was a tough decision.” Finney-Leggroan will see out the remainder of Helmen’s term, which is slated to end Dec. 31, 2026. About Finney-Leggroan The Chief reached out to Finney-Leggroan about his appointment to the council. FinneyLeggroan said he was interested in the position because he has regularly attended council meetings and believes he can make a difference on the council. “I care about the community. The thing is, I didn’t realize how much I cared about the community until I started going to those
Courtesy photo from Finney-Leggroan
New Clatskanie City Council member Russell Finney-Leggroan.
city council meetings, and realized how many of the things about the community there were to re-
ally talk about,” Finney-Leggroan said. “You know, how money’s spent, what improvements were made around town, things that are on other residents’ minds.” Finney-Leggroan said he is a “good listener,” and his extensive banking career has helped him work with people and numbers, and he is also a detail-oriented person. With those qualifications in mind, Finney-Leggroan said that being on the council would be a good way to focus more on the community. A non-native to Clatskanie, Finney-Leggroan bought a house and moved to Clatskanie from Portland in 2021. While he said he hadn’t considered living in Clatskanie due to his work, when he found the house that he settled in, he fell in love with the house and area. Finney-Leggroan said that part
of what made him feel at home in the area was the welcome he received from his new neighbors. The warm reception gave FinneyLeggroan a renewed appreciation for the close-knit environment of a small town. “I lived in Estacada when I was growing up. So I was used to a small town. So I knew what small town love was like, but I had no idea that Clatskanie would be so warm and welcoming as Estacada was when I was growing up,” Finney-Leggroan said. “Clatskanie felt like a big neighborhood. It felt like a suburb without a city.” Another aspect that made Finney-Leggroan feel at home was the connections he built
See COUNCIL Page A3
Rainier calls for repeal of Measure 110 WILL LOHRE Country Media, Inc.
At its meeting Nov. 6, the Rainier City Council voted unanimously to approve Resolution 11-23-01.
Crossword ................ A2 Police Blotter .......... A3 Obituaries ................. A3 News and Views ...... A4 Community CalendarA4 Classified Ads ......... A5 Legals ....................... A5 Veterans Day .......... A6-8
Contact The Chief Phone: 503-397-0116 Fax: 503-397-4093 chiefnews@countrymedia.net 1805 Columbia Blvd., St. Helens, OR 97051
The resolution proclaims the city’s call for the repeal of the provisions enacted pursuant to Measure 110. The resolution states that while Measure 110 was enacted to reduce crime, improve public safety, and save lives, it has had the “opposite effect.” The resolution states that Measure 110 has contributed to an increase in overdose deaths, criminal activity, public nuisance, and diminished quality of life for Oregon residents. The Chief spoke with Mayor Jerry Cole about what led to the council approving the resolution. “It’s not a specific pinpoint incident. It’s more of an incidents over time since Measure 110 went into effect. It’s a build-up,” Cole said. Dubbed the “Drug Decriminalization and Addiction Treatment Initiative,” Measure 110 was passed by Oregon voters in the November 2020 general election. Cole said that the resolution isn’t indicative of Rainier being unwilling to support those struggling with addiction. “It doesn’t mean that we don’t have compassion for people who are addicted to drugs. We want them to get help,” Cole said. “We want the funding there for them to get help, but allowing drug use in the public, making drug use a $100 fine with really no penalties to go get help, frankly, isn’t working. “Everybody seems to have some issues with houseless people
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The Council passed the resolution at their meeting on Nov. 6.
and people who are using drugs; people have issues with that,” Cole continued. “They also have issues with the lack of mental health help, and all Measure 110 is doing by allowing drug usage is pouring gasoline on a fire, and we want that fixed.” Many local governments around Oregon have passed resolutions calling for the Oregon Legislature to repeal or amend the measure due to its impacts on public health, safety, and welfare, according to a
City of Rainier statement. Those municipalities include Clackamas, Polk, Marion, and Douglas counties and the City of Medford. Other cities and counties are expected to pass similar resolutions before the Oregon Legislature convenes early next year for its short session, the statement said. The Chief reached out to Clatskanie City Manager Greg Hinkelman to see if the council in Clatskanie had considered taking similar action.
“I have had no discussions with the Mayor on this issue,” Hinkelman said. “I know none of us are fans. I need to discuss whether to have this on the December council agenda or not.” Cole explained why the Rainier City Council decided to put the resolution into effect ahead of the short session. “The short session is coming up in Salem. So we’re trying to get our message out there that our representatives in Salem need to do something about this,” Cole said. “Basically, what I was hoping for is, sometimes you gotta pave the way, and hopefully, some other entities and municipalities and organizations will join us in this fight to either repeal Measure 110 or amend it and make it better.” Rainier’s resolution was inspired by a discussion that took place Oct. 10 during the quarterly city and county dinner, at which multiple Columbia County leaders expressed concerns about the measure and its consequences. Cole emphasized that Rainier wants to find solutions to the issues presented by Measure 110 rather than just voicing dissent. “We’re open to helping fix this problem. We’re more than open to be on any committees or whatever may be appointed to help fix it,” Cole said. “We’re looking for solutions, not just complaining about stuff.”
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Colvin’s hosts signing event for D1 baseball prospect WILL LOHRE Country Media, Inc.
One of the Pacific Northwest’s top baseball prospects is headed to Oregon State and officially signed among friends and family at Colvin’s Pub and Grill in Clatskanie. Zach Swanson is a senior in high school at Toutle Lake High School in Washington and is set to pitch for the Beavers in 2024. Boasting a fastball that can hit 95 miles per hour and a mean slider, Swanson is also drawing the attention of professional scouts. In an interview with the Chief, Swanson described what the momentous occasion of officially signing on Nov. 8 meant to him and what he hopes to accomplish in the coming years. “It’s a big day. My morning started off with all the coaches texting me, saying, ‘Today’s the big day,’” Swanson said. “Being a Beaver is something special; it’s been in my family for a long time. My dad being best friends with Pat Casey, head coach when they won three National Championships, I would get down there from ages 6 to 12, and we’d go every weekend and watch the Beavs play.” Swanson said there were a lot of Pac-12 schools who were interested in signing him, but the decision ultimately came down to Stanford and Oregon State. The schools made him offers when he was in just 8th grade, and he committed to Oregon State on Christmas Eve of that year. “There’s been no regrets, and ever since then, I knew that Oregon State was the right place for me,” Swanson said. “It’s a special place; you have to be there to really feel the environment, but I’m super excited to be down there, be a Beaver, and wear orange and black.”
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Holiday Bazaar
Will Lohre / Country Media, Inc.
Zach Swanson, along side his father, Eric, addresses the gathered friends and family after signing the official commitment to OSU.
As far as the pros go, Swanson is listed as a top 50 MLB prospect on prospectslive.com and futurestarsseries.com. Given his ranking as a prospect, Colvin is already planning on hosting an event for the MLB Draft next July. When draft day comes around, it will bring about a whole different decision. “I think the right approach is regardless of if I get drafted in a spot that I’m going to take the money, I’m going to one of the best programs in the nation for baseball,” Swanson said. “This is not a losing situation either way; it’s going to be a tough decision.” “I think every kid’s goal, especially in college baseball, they want to get drafted professionally and be able to make a career out of it, and that’s a big goal for me,” Swanson continued. “I gotta lot to learn, especially as a young pitcher, but if the money’s right, that will definitely be something I consider. I guess you could
say the worst-case scenario is going to Oregon State, but by no means is that a bad scenario at all.” A two-sport athlete in basketball and baseball, Swanson said that one of his biggest strengths as an athlete is his competitiveness. “I don’t think you’ll find a guy on any team, whether that be basketball, baseball, or whatever it is,” Swanson said. “It doesn’t matter the scenario. I’m always willing to play up to the moment or do anything for a win. I hate losing. It’s the one thing I hate.” The next steps for Swanson will be strength and conditioning as he prepares for his final high school season and going into the draft and next college season. Clatskanie connection While Swanson is from Washington, his aunt Jenny Swanson is married to Kim Rogers, who owns Colvin’s. Rogers and his wife made the space available for both
the signing party and when draft day rolls around this coming summer. The signing event featured a brief address to the gathered friends and family, followed by a dinner of ribs, mac n’ cheese, and salad. Plenty of proud family and friends cheered as Zach signed his NIL commitment papers. Eric Swanson, Zach’s father and brother to Jenny, cut the picture of a proud father during the evening and spoke about what the support meant to him and his son. “Well, obviously, with my sister living here, and Kim being here with the restaurant, that’s pretty special that they could put this together for us,” Eric Swanson said. “This room has, he’s got former players, current players that he played with growing up. He’s got coaches, youth coaches that he started with growing up. Family, friends, they’ve always been there for us and supported us.”
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
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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 Report October 22 • Callers reported finding a firearm under the bridge at the
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city park. The reporting party advised they did not touch the gun and left it where they found it. An officer responded to retrieve the weapon, only to discover that it was a broken, plastic toy gun. October 23 • An officer talked to a vehicle owner after receiving a parking complaint. The owner agreed to move the vehicle. • A vehicle previously tagged as abandoned was removed from city property. • A concerned citizen called to report that a child was sitting on a bench with their suitcase in tow. An officer responded to the location and found that a parent was nearby watching, waiting
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for the child to ‘cool down’. • A battery was stolen from a parked vehicle.
Snack Shack. The man was given a warning and agreed not to use the services any more.
October 24 • A juvenile was reported as a runaway. The child later returned home.
October 26 • A caller reported that a vehicle backed into his vehicle in a parking lot and took off. The case is under investigation.
October 25 • A local business reported that a man was very upset because they would not allow his dog into the establishment. The man was advised that the business had the right not to allow his dog in, and that furthermore, the business was for members, which he was not a part of. • A caller reported that a man was using electricity at the
One dead, one injured in highway crash
October 27 • A caller reported that people were dumping things near a dumpster on East A Street. The dumped bag contained the cremains of three individuals and photographs. October 28 • Officers responded to two separate alarm calls. Both were accidentally set off.
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• A resident reported that a subject had attempted to break into their vehicle. The suspect was not successful and the reporting party did not wish to pursue charges. October 29 • An employee reported that a suspicious person, who had been warned to leave the property, was refusing to come out of the port-a-potty. An officer responded to the premises and peace was restored.
Upon arrival, no one was at the scene. Additional callers advised they saw a person flee the area. The owner of the vehicle denied knowing who was operating the vehicle, but agreed to call for a tow. • A 43-year-old male subject of Centralia, was taken into custody and lodged at the jail for violating a court issued no contact order. • A vehicle that had been reported as stolen from Portland was recovered in Rainier.
October 30 • Reports of a single vehicle accident into a concrete barrier, blocking the west bound lanes of Highway 30, prompted the response from officers.
October 31 • An officer responded to a two-vehicle accident with minor injuries on Fern Hill Road. One of the drivers was issued a citation for driving uninsured.
•O bituaries • • Eric Brandon Bowles
June 16, 1982 ~ Oct. 27, 2023
The fatal crash impacted Highway 6 for five hours. STAFF REPORT Country Media, Inc.
Oregon State Police (OSP) report a Rainier man has died in a traffic crash in Tillamook County. According to OSP, at approximately 7:08 a.m. Friday, Nov. 3. troopers responded to a log truck versus passenger car crash on Highway 6, near mile-
post 12. The preliminary investigation indicated a loaded Kenworth log truck, operated by 67-year-old Michael Julius Woodward of North Plains, was traveling eastbound when a westbound Toyota Prius, operated by 30-year-old Tyler James Street of Rainier, crossed the center line and struck the log truck head-on.
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Street was declared deceased at the scene. Woodward suffered minor injuries. The highway was impacted for approximately five hours during the on-scene investigation. The Tillamook County Sheriff’s Office, Tillamook Fire, and the Oregon Department of Transportation assisted OSP at the scene of the crash.
Annual Kiwanis Gala a success
Kiwanis gala attendees enjoying dinner BY LAUREY WHITE Chief Guest Article
The Clatskanie American Legion Hall was transformed into a sea of red, white, and blue Saturday, Nov. 4, as the Kiwanis hosted their big event of the year. The evening was a rousing success, according to Sandy Davis, secretary of the Kiwanis club and organizer for the event. “We served more than a hundred dinners and raised more than 20,000 dollars,” Davis said. These dollars will go to worthwhile causes, such as
COUNCIL From Page A1 through going to the Clatskanie Farmers Market during the summer. One of the issues that Finney-Leggroan thought he could help with was the issue of the sewer plant. “That’s a big thing for communities. And I thought well, that must be a lot of work for somebody, and it sounds like they’re talking about money and talking about details. I was a loan underwriter as part of my
Eric Brandon Bowles was born on June 16, 1980 and died unexpectedly on Oct. 27, 2023. Eric recently completed certification as a TIG Welder and had accepted a new job just days before his passing. Most of his adult life Eric worked as a roofer, specializing in commercial roofing, and for a while he had his own roofing business in Rockaway, Oregon. Eric treasured family and was a very sentimental man. He loved camping and tubing with his family. Eric also enjoyed games of all kinds, excelling at almost everything from chess, basketball, pong, cards, and video games. Eric was extremely social and loved being around people, especially when they were also singing karaoke. In addition, Eric was an excellent
cook. His special dish was chicken tetrazzini, and he would make multiple pans to share with family, friends, and co-workers. Eric was a quick learner, and never hesitated to ask for help in learning the meaning of a new word or help in understanding a new concept.
His absence leaves a large hole in the lives of his family and friends. He is survived by his partner, Stephenie Welles of Corvallis, Oregon; children, Hope Bowles Cyr of Tucson, Arizona, Jude Byrd of Toledo, Washington, and Autumn Bowles of Corvallis, Oregon; parents, Ron and Tammy Bowles of Rainier; Oregon; sisters, Chelly Perez-Lopez of Portland, Oregon and Jessica Bowles of Longview, Washington; paternal grandparents; and numerous aunts, uncles and cousins. A celebration of life will be held for Eric at 11 a.m. on Nov. 11, 2023 at the Alston Corner Assembly of God Church. The service will be officiated Rev. Steve Berry. A reception in the church rec room will follow the service.
Vicky Holmgren
Jan. 14, 1950 ~ Oct. 19, 2023
Vicky Holmgren, a resident of Clatskanie for many years, passed away on Oct. 19, 2023.
Courtesy photo from Laurey White
scholarships for students to further their education. The Kiwanis club has been in Clatskanie for 95 years, and is still alive and well. “The pandemic halted meetings for a year, but everyone still paid their dues,” Davis said. “Twenty-one people showed up at our first meeting.” Pastor Derek Richman led the festivities and kept things moving. After dinner, the auction commenced. Mark Kuhns was the auctioneer, and there were plenty of items on which to bid. The CMHS wood shop
carved a wooden bear and a five-foot-long foyer table for the auction. Other items included a diamond necklace from Diamond Showcase, two nights at the Embarcadero Hotel in Newport, Oregon, and an Emeril Lagasse French door air fryer and convection oven. One lucky bidder won a trip for two to go sturgeon fishing on the Columbia River with local fishing aficionado Bob Emminger. “We could not have done this without our great community,” Davis said, emphasizing how the Clatskanie area always chips in for worthwhile causes.
banking career, and loan underwriting is risk management,” Finney-Leggroan said. “I’ve got a career in numbers and risk management, and I’ve done some administrative jobs, so I thought I could be of some help.” Finney-Leggroan said he’s never thought of himself as a politician, but he decided to submit a letter of interest, and “everything fell into place.” A believer in fate, Finney-Leggroan said it felt like he found his place. One piece of that feeling of belonging in Clatskanie is
that the Jolmas, a historic Clatskanie family, built the home he moved into. One thing Finney-Leggroan wanted to emphasize to the people of Clatskanie is that he’s willing to listen to residents about any topic, and is “very reasonable.” “I just want people to know that I’m approachable. I’m always willing to hear what someone’s point of view is,” Finney-Leggroan said. “I have small town experience in Estacada, and I know what it’s like to live in a small town. So, I just want to be able to help as best I can.”
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Veterans Day 2023 DR. NAKEIA COUNCIL DANIELS Interim Director, Oregon Department of Veterans’ Affairs Chief Guest Column
Today, we gather as communities across Oregon, a diverse tapestry of backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives, to honor the heroes of this nation—our veterans. On this Veterans Day, we pause to express our deepest gratitude to those who have stood on the front lines, whether on foreign shores or on home soil, to protect the freedoms and values we hold dear. Each year, our nation sets aside Veterans Day to remember all the men and women who have defended our liberty through their honorable military service. American cities big and small celebrate with ceremonies across the nation to honor their service and sacrifice. The value that we as Oregonians and Americans place on honoring and showing gratitude toward those who have served and sacrificed is profound. Seventy five percent of today’s veterans in Oregon fought and served during wartime in significant and historical battlegrounds such as — Normandy, Iwo Jima, Inchon, Vietnam, Kuwait, Bagdad, and Kabul, to name a few. They served bravely to preserve the fragile democracy and freedoms afforded to our nation, and thankfully, most returned home to continue to build their lives among families, friends and loved ones. Still a quarter of Oregon’s veterans remind us that even when the United States is in a time of peace, the men and women of our military remain committed, trained and ready - continuing to preserve our democracy. Today, we gather to honor and thank veterans of all eras of military service for their sacrifice to this nation. Together we are the fabric of our nation, committing to an ideal that this land is free because of the brave. Regrettably, throughout history, some of our nation’s military policies have been discriminatory, denying certain service members the full enjoyment of the individual freedoms cherished by all Americans. Despite this discrimination, these courageous individuals exhibited unwavering commitment to defending liberty and were resolute in their dedication to preserving freedom, both at home and abroad. Upon returning from these campaigns, the majority of all veterans sought nothing more than the opportunity to resume their
Courtesy photo
Nakeia Council Daniels
lives, content in the knowledge that they had fulfilled their duties with unwavering dedication and integrity. Those who have experienced the harsh realities of close combat understand that war, any war, represents the failure of diplomacy. This failure compels free nations to take up arms, defending their freedom and that of their neighbors against those who seek to oppress them and extinguish any hope of individual liberty and freedom. The relatively brief history of the United States has shown that while we are a nation that seeks peace, when we are called to engage in conflict, we do so with remarkable courage and skill, rivaling the valor and determination of any military force in history. When the fighting is done and these men and women return home, they do so as Veterans of the United States Armed Forces. It is a title worn proudly by those who did their duty in service to this nation. The benefits extended to these veterans by a grateful nation is a matter of national public policy and should never be taken for granted. It is the duty of each generation of veterans to preserve the benefits we have earned and to ensure those benefits for the next generation of American men and women who have earned the honorable title of veteran. Veterans Day was founded on the day of the Armistice of World War I. It was on the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month in 1918 that the guns of war fell silent, marking the end of what was then believed to be the “war to end all wars.” A ceaseless commitment to peace and understanding among nations was born. While the world has witnessed the passage of time and the emergence of new challenges, the essence of Veterans Day remains unchanged. It is a day to celebrate and honor America’s veterans for their unwavering patriotism, love of
country, and their willingness to serve and sacrifice for the greater good. However, it is crucial that we don’t limit our tribute to mere words and ceremonies. Our commitment to veterans extends far beyond the boundaries of a single day. It is not enough to merely say “thank you.” Rather, it is the fulfillment of our duty to ensure that every veteran receives the care and support they have rightfully earned. They are not asking for handouts; they are seeking the welldeserved support that comes from a grateful nation. Taking care of our veterans also means taking care of those who care for them. While veterans wear the uniform, their families also serve. It is our duty to support these families and recognize their sacrifices. Today, I encourage every Oregonian to take a moment of silence to reflect on the sacrifices of our veterans and their families and especially those service members who did not return home. Let us take a moment to honor and pay respect to those who gave their lives in service to this country, in service of freedom, and in service of a more peaceful world. We remember their sacrifice, their valor, and their grace. For while we visit monuments of stone, we must never forget that each of the names forever etched in granite — those known and unknown — represent a precious, valiant life. Our veterans, regardless of their life’s journey, continue to dedicate themselves to building a stronger and more perfect nation. That commitment, to a greater cause, is what makes America exceptional. We celebrate not only the history of our veterans but also their unwavering dedication to our nation’s founding ideals. Our veterans represent the very best of our country, and this day reminds us to strive to be better as individuals, as a community, and as a nation. As long as we remember — their sacrifices and service are not in vain. God bless our service members, veterans, their families, and God bless the United States of America.
Will Lohre Editor
•C ommunity E vents • •
To list an event in the Community Calendar, email details with a phone number that may be published, to chronicleclassifieds@ countrymedia.net, or call 503-397-0116. November 10 Veterans Day Breakfast 8:30 a.m. - 9:30 a.m. in the Clatskanie Middle/High School Commons. Hosted by the CMHS National Honor Society November 11 Veterans Day event at Rainier Oregon Historical Museum Noon - 4 p.m. at 106 W. B St. inside Rainier City Hall on the 3rd. Floor. Over 100 Rainier veteran photos will be on display, military uniforms, memorabilia and slide show of Rainier Veterans. Come join us for this special event honoring our local veterans. Rainier Veteran DVD’s will also be available for sale for only $5.00. November 12 Oregon Symphonic Band performance honoring veterans 3 p.m. at the Donavon Wooley PAC at Clatskanie Middle/
Jeremy C. Ruark Regional Executive Editor
High School. Veterans, band students and children admitted free. Tickets available at clatskaniearts.org. Free admission for Veterans and students. 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 503728-3608 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 503-3388268. 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.
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. 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. 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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NOTICE OF MONTHLY CLATSKANIE PEOPLE’S UTILITY DISTRICT MEETING NOTICE The Clatskanie People’s shop and/or meeting, pursu- TEGIC PLAN REVIEW Board Executive Session Utility District Board of ant to: ORS 192.660 (2) (f) III. STAFF REPORTS Meeting, October 18, 2023 BOARD MEETING Directors has scheduled the information or records that UPDATE CLATSKANIE · Review payment of bills The Board of Directors for Clatskanie School District 6J will hold their monthly Board meeting, Tuesday, November 14, 2023 @ 6:30 p.m. at the Clatskanie Elementary Library, 815 Nehalem or via Zoom. In addition there will be an in person board work session @ 5:30 p.m.
Please see our website at www.csd.k12.or.us for a zoom link for the regular board meeting. The agenda includes but is not limited to: Superintendent and Principal’s reports, financial report, policy updates and the consent agenda. The public is encouraged to attend.
next regular Board meeting for Wednesday, November 15, 2023 at 6:00 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 work-
are exempt from disclosure by law, including written advice from an attorney. AGENDA CLATSKANIE PEOPLE’S UTILITY DISTRICT BOARD WORKSHOP Wednesday, November 15, 2023 5:30 P.M. I. 2024 DRAFT BUDGET PRESENTATION: Derek Huhta, Controller II. STRA-
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NOTICE OF REGULAR MEETING The Clatskanie Planning Commission will meet for a regular meeting on Wednesday, November 15th, 2023 at 7:00 p.m. in the Council Chambers at City Hall, upstairs in the Clatskanie Cultural Center. Agenda items include but are not limited to the following: Approval of the minutes of the August
23rd, 2023, regular meeting; a Public Hearing will be held to review a request for a variance of rear setbacks for 20 SE Conyers Street. An updated agenda will be available at City Hall by Nov. 9th, 2023. Please go to the city website, www.cityofclatskanie.com to access the link to attend the meeting on Zoom.
for September & October 2023 III. ACTION ITEMS · Policy Review: 106 Lighting Policy · Appoint OPUDA Voting Delegate & Alternate IV. DISCUSSION / INFORMATIONAL ITEMS · Board Comments & Calendar V. EXECUTIVE SESSION VI. ADJOURNMENT
CC23-1860
NOTICE OF MEETING The Clatskanie School District 6J Policy Committee will be hosting a meeting Thursday, November 16, 2023 from 1:00 - 3:00 p.m. at the district office, 660 SW Bryant St., Clatskanie, OR. You may
also join via zoom link, which can be found on the Clatskanie School District website csd.k12.or.us. The agenda for the meeting can also be found there. The public is encouraged to attend.
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Veterans Day Honoring our heroes on Nov. 11
Clatskanie
Columbia City
Rainier
Scappoose
St. Helens
Vernonia
Courtesy photos from Doug Walker
Hometown Heroes of Columbia County The Hometown Heroes of Columbia County (HTHCC) has placed a “Thank you veterans” sign at 6 local Veterans Memorials in Columbia County.
There are signs in St. Helens, Scappoose, Rainier, Columbia City, Vernonia and Clatskanie. HTHCC is a volunteer group operating out of the Columbia County
Sheriff’s Office. “The primary mission of the Hometown Heroes is to support and honor our deployed troops wherever they may be,” HTHCC’s
Doug Walker said. “We also support the local National Guard unit when not deployed by helping with their Christmas party and a family picnic during the
summer.” This marks the third year the Hometown Heroes has made this gesture of gratitude to the veterans of the county, past, present
and future. The signs will stay up through Veteran’s Day weekend reminding everyone to Thank a Vet.
Oregon Symphonic Band plays tribute to service members SUBMITTED BY THE CLATSKANIE ARTS COMMISSION
The Clatskanie Arts Commission (CAC), as part of fits 34th performing arts series, is pleased to present the Oregon Symphonic Band in concert on Sunday, November 12, at 3 p.m. in the Donavon Wooley PAC at Clatskanie Middle/ High School. Oregon’s Premier Symphonic Band (OSB) will be honoring our veterans with selections such as Washington Post, American Salute, Battle Cry for Freedom, Black Granite, National Emblem, God Bless America/America the Beautiful, Star Spangled Spectacular and, of course, the Armed Forces Medley.
This 60+ symphonic band, under the direction of Michael Burche-Pesses, has performed throughout the United States and been honored with many awards. Not only will this performance honor our veterans, but it will also give band students an opportunity to see that performing music may be part of their lives well beyond their school years. The OSB performers will be an inspiration to all young musicians. This will be a wonderful afternoon of music performed in the newly renovated PAC. Tickets are $15 for adults, $13 for seniors and free admission to music students, music teachers, children and especially our
veterans. Tickets may be purchased online at clatskaniearts.org or at the door on the day of the concert. CAC is also excited to announce its 34th annual Performing Arts Series: • Sunday, December 3: Old Fashioned Christmas with the Fireside Social Orchestra • Sunday, February 18: 3 Leg Torso • Sunday, March 10: Skamokawa Swamp Opera • Friday, April 26: New Zealand Singer Will Martin Visit clatskaniearts.org for a preview of these performances. Please contact Elsa at 503-728-3403 for more information.
Courtesy photo
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Kenneth Schreiber’s wild distraction: The raid on the Philippine POW camp Cabanatuan ever told me was ‘out east of town.’ Joe’s father-in-law was Johnny Johnson who owned the property prior to Joe and Hilda. Johnny Johnson created the ‘Johnson Fir.’ Joe donated one to the city, and it was planted in front of and to the east of Rainier City Hall. I remember a conversation Carl Nys and I had about the Johnson Fir,” Duane commented. Kenneth continued his military service after World War II serving in Korea and Vietnam and rose to the rank of Lt. Col in the US Air Force. He passed away in 1994. (1) The concrete pedestal that Chris saw was for the Yeon and Pelton’s railroad incline engine that was used to lower trains cars full of logs down to be the Rinearson’s slough where they were dumped and formed into log rafts.
COMPILED BY MIKE CLARK Chief Guest Article On the night of January 30th, 1945, a lone P-61 Black Widow flew over the Cabanatuan POW camp in the Philippines. Its sole mission was to put on an air show that would capture the attention of the Japanese guards below. The plane “Hard To Get” was piloted by Captain Kenneth Schreiber and radar specialist 1st Lieutenant Bonnie Rucks, from the 547th Night Fighter Squadron. They had received an unusual request to fly over the prison camp and distract the guards long enough for the combined forces of United States Army Rangers, Alamo Scouts, and Filipino guerillas to creep across open terrain surrounding the camp and rescue the 500 allied POWs held captive there. Forty-five minutes before the raid, Schreiber and Rucks flew over the camp and began their convincing performance of a severely crippled plane on the verge of a crash. The guards were caught by surprise as they watched the P-61 circle above with the engines sputtering and backfiring loudly. This effect was caused by Schreiber’s skill of manipulating the ignition to cut the power to the engines and then restart them. They waggled their wings and then scraped over the nearby tree-covered ridgeline with only 30 feet of
Courtesy photo from the ROHM
Kenneth Schreiber, 1937 Rainier High School graduate.
clearance, only to reappear again to take another pass. Finally, they disappeared over the horizon with the Japanese transfixed, waiting for the sound of an explosion. The spectacle caused the Japanese to be completely unaware of the planned raid on Cabanatuan, allowing it to be a massive success for the Allied forces. Kenneth Schreiber was from Rainier, graduating from Rainier High school in 1937. He had a sister Dorothy, who graduated in 1942 and married Bob Bernard that year on September 3 in the Hudson Community Church. Their parents were Joseph and Hilda Schreiber, and they had lived on the property that is now owned by the John Stennick family (at the end of Oliva Dr. off of Wonderly Road). Chris Smith grew up next door to them and remembered,
Courtesy photo from the ROHM
From left to right, Crew Chief Technical Sergeant John Crough, radar specialist 1st Lt. Bonnie Rucks, Pilot Lt. Ken Schreiber and Col. Johnson.
“In my early teens I worked for them in their orchard, mowing yard and anything a teenage boy could do. In my late teens and early 20’s, I cut their firewood and filled the basement of the house with it for winter. Joe taught me a lot about the logging history of the area. He showed me where the steam donkey sat that lowered the rail cars loaded with logs from the Hudson and surrounding areas.” (1). It was Duane Bernard’s uncle Bob who married
Dorothy, and he remembers attending their wedding. “I worked side by side with Joe in the early and mid ‘50s at the cheese plant in Rainier. Rainier Creamery, later on Standard Dairy, also sold bottled milk and ice cream. Plus, they owned the lockers there, but that’s another story. Joe and I, and a few others from the Creamery, used to deer hunt together in the, then recent, Tillamook Burn. I bought a gun from Joe that I still have, and I treasure it.
nuclear-powered aircraft carrier’s speed, endurance, agility and the combat capability of its air wing. “Sailors are truly the most valuable asset on USS Abraham Lincoln,” said Capt. Pete Riebe, commanding officer of Abraham Lincoln. “The crew has been working hard preparing the ship for deployment since I took command and I can’t wait to take the team to sea so that I can see these warfighters in action.” This year commemorates 50 years of women flying in the U.S. Navy. In 1973, the first eight women began flight school in Pensacola. One year later six of them, known as “The First Six,” earned their “Wings of Gold.” Over the past 50 years, the Navy has expanded its roles for women to lead and serve globally, and today women aviators project power from the sea in every type of Navy, Marine Corps and Coast Guard aircraft. According to Navy
officials, our Nation and our Navy is stronger because of their service. With 90 percent of global commerce traveling by sea and access to the internet relying on the security of undersea fiber optic cables, Navy officials continue to emphasize that the prosperity of the United States is directly linked to trained sailors and a strong Navy. As a member of the Navy, Loosli is part of a world-class organization focused on maintaining maritime dominance, strengthening partnerships, increasing competitive warfighting capabilities and sustaining combat-ready forces in support of the National Defense Strategy. “The Navy is a powerhouse of diverse individuals who unify on the front lines of defense to keep our adversaries at bay,” said Loosli. Loosli has many opportunities to achieve accomplishments during military service. “My proudest moment in the Navy was getting pinned with my Surface Warfare qualification pin,” said Loosli. “I’m also really proud of being promoted to the rank of petty officer.” As Loosli and other sailors continue to perform missions, they take pride in serving their country in the United States Navy. “Serving in the Navy means I’m working in a diverse community to better
Probably the most interesting thing that I remember about Joe is the fact that he related to me that he helped to build the old original Columbia River Highway out east of Rainier. He said he drove a horse-pulling a fresno. A fresno was a small scraper used to scrape up and then haul dirt or rock. It had to be dumped manually. I often wonder if he had a hand in building the portion of that road by Little Jack Falls where ROHM is involved currently. All he
References: a. The Fascinating P-61 Black Widow: Fighter, Hunter, and Decoy - World War Wings, b. Mr James “Big Jim” Truman, the official Historian of the 547th Night Fighter Squadron, c. Rescuing the Most Doomed American Soldiers of WW2 - The Great Raid YouTube d. Ghost Soldiers, The Epic Account of World War II’s Greatest Rescue Mission by Hampton Sides, pages 248 & 249 e. https:// arsof-history.org/articles/ v14n2_cabanatuan_page_1. html
Scappoose native serves aboard U.S. Navy floating airport LT. CMDR. CHRIS DONLON, NAVY OFFICE OF COMMUNITY OUTREACH Chief Guest Article
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Petty Officer 3rd Class Tazman Loosli, a native of Scappoose, Oregon, is one of more than 5,000 sailors serving aboard the self-contained mobile airport, USS Abraham Lincoln. Equipped with a full flight deck and more than 60 aircraft including attack fighter jets and helicopters, aircraft carriers are one of the largest warships in the world. Loosli, a 2020 Scappoose High School graduate, joined the Navy three years ago. “I joined the Navy for a fresh start coming out of high school,” said Loosli. “I wanted to get myself on my feet.” Skills and values learned in the Navy are similar to those found in Scappoose.
“Some of the most important lessons I brought with me to the service are that hard work pays off, discipline is key and that respect is earned, not given,” said Loosli. Aircraft carriers are the centerpiece of America’s Naval forces. For more than 100 years, they have projected power, sustained sea control, bolstered deterrence, provided humanitarian assistance and disaster relief, and maintained enduring commitments worldwide. According to Navy officials, aircraft carriers are versatile and have unique mission capabilities that make them a more strategic asset for the Navy than fixed-site bases. They are often the first response in a global crisis because of their ability to operate freely in international waters anywhere on the world’s ocean. In addition, no other weapon system can deploy and operate forward with a full-sized,
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myself and others,” said Loosli. Loosli is grateful to others for helping make a Navy career possible. “I want to thank Tyler Kendall, Siera Kendall, Jaraco Richardson and Gary
Loosli for being my motivation and pushing me to join,” said Loosli. “My advice to my shipmates is that the Navy is what you make of it,” added Loosli. “My advice to everyone is never forget to smile.”
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