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FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 12, 2021
VOL. 130, NO. 27 Serving the Lower Columbia Region since 1891
The reimagination of Humps ZOE GOTTLIEB chronicle2@countrymedia.net
The Chief has learned that the sale of the former Humps Restaurant is in the works and the building could be transformed into a mixed-use location. The structure, located in the middle of the city, is nestled on the banks of the Clatskanie River. The building offers a 12,000-squarefoot interior in a two-story building which includes a basement. ARK Real Estate, Inc. Principal Broker Jenny Erhardt said the sale of the Humps property is pending, and the new owners are expected to work on the new building by the end of the year. The potential buyers of the property had not been identified at press time, but they are already envisioning what to do with the property located at 50 Columbia River Highway, according to Erhardt. “There will be retail and wholesale operations taking place in the building and potentially even recreational activities,” Erhardt said. The former restaurant has been sitting idle since Dec. 2018, attracting speculation from passersby as to what the future of the property holds. On July 17, The Chief ran a poll asking readers how they would like to see the former Humps Restaurant transformed. The majority of readers favored the idea of the property becoming a craft brewery.
Jeremy C. Ruark / The Chief
Humps has been a focal point of Clatskanie dating all the way back to the 60s.
In an article published by The Chief in the summer of 2019, Clatskanie Chamber of Commerce President Monica Seidl said Humps had been the center of discussion as an economic trigger for the city. “There has been hope that it may become a brew pub at some point,” she said. “That a large company would come in and reopen it so that it could become an iconic location on the way to the coast.”
“Humps should be a great thing if we can find an owner,” Clatskanie Mayor Bob Brajcich said in the 2019 article. “If you’ve got a cold beer and a good sandwich, that’s about all it takes.” Clatskanie City Manager Greg Hinkelman told The Chief in 2020 that he would like to see the building continue to be used as a restaurant, with the Humps name attached. “It was a historical landmark
in Clatskanie and a destination,” Hinkelman said. “I would like to see that happen again for the city. It doesn’t have to be a traditional restaurant, a brew pub or something like that. I would like to see the building occupied and used as a restaurant, because that’s what it’s been for 50-60 years.” The beloved fixture of Clatskanie closed on Aug. 27, 2017, in response to a combination of diminishing business and costly
overhead, according General Manager Jeremiah Cameron. Cameron is the son of owners Rob and Brenda Cameron, who reopened Humps in 2014 after previous owners shut it down in 2011. In 2020, Humps was listed for sale at $850,000. The specific 2021 sale details are pending. Follow this developing story at thechiefnews.com and in the Friday print editions of The Chief.
City bids farewell to ‘public nuisance’
The fire-damaged home before demolition. ZOE GOTTLIEB chronicle2@countrymedia.net
The City of Rainier has a contract with Servpro to conduct the demolition of what city officials have called a “public nuisance” structure at 516 East E Street. The former home burned down in 2019 due to what was reported as an electrical fire. No one had lived in the building for several months at the time of the fire. Last spring, city
Jeremy C. Ruark / The Chief
Courtesy photo from Scott Jorgersen
Demolition of the structure took place last week.
officials began to take action following neighbors’ complaints about the condition and safety hazards of the remains of the burnt structure. Rainier City Administrator Scott Jorgensen said the demolition work began last week. Jorgensen said the area had to undergo environmental testing before any work could be done and the process of obtaining demolition permits was exhaustive. “It was a process in and of itself, because typically, property owners
are the ones requesting demolition, but in this case, it’s the city acting as other party demolishing the home that it doesn’t own,” he said. “We’ve had to provide documentation that we’ve gone through all these processes.” Owner’s responsibility Chapter 15.15 of Rainier Municipal Code delegates the responsibility of issuing liens to the city council, stating that the council
Zoe Gottlieb /The Chief
Remains of the demolished home will be trucked away.
is responsible for determining demolition costs and assessing them against the property value. Jorgensen said that the future owner will incur demolition costs payed out by the city. “(The) property will remain under its current ownership,” Jorgersen said. “It’s up to that owner to decide what if anything they would wish to do with it in the future. But the second ownership changes hands, whoever purchases the property is going to have to pay the city
in order to clear that lien.” Rainier City Council will revisit the matter of the burnt building when they officially issue a lien on the property in December. “The next step is that council’s December meeting,” Jorgensen said. “I’m going to have to put together a resolution that our city attorneys will use to get the lien on the property to the city to recover the costs incurred through the demolition. And I think we can also add a 20% administrative fee on there.”
$1.2 billion for Oregon transportation projects JEREMY C. RUARK jruark@countrymedia.net
Oregon Department of Transportation (ODOT) has said it will receive over $1 billion in additional transportation funding as part of the federal infrastructure package, according to Oregon Transportation Commission Chair Bob Van Brocklin.
Obituaries ................. A3 Inside Look .............. A4 Calendar ................... A5 Crossword .............. A5 Classified Ads ......... A6 Legals ....................... A6 Readers Choice ...... A7 Veterans Day ...... A8-10
“Congress completed work on the largest infrastructure finance bill in history,” Van Brocklin said. “Once signed by the president, the $1.2 billion bill will allow ODOT to address a number of major challenges in our state.” President Biden is scheduled to sign the historic legislation next week at the White House. The money will go toward projects around the state that will benefit drivers, transit riders, cyclists and pedestrians, help maintain roads and bridges, and address climate change, according to Van Brocklin. “We’re still analyzing the legislation to determine exactly how much
funding ODOT will receive and where it will spend the money,” Van Brocklin said. “Many projects are ready for construction, and others are in the final stages of planning, so we should be able to move quickly.” Columbia County funding City leaders in Columbia County are hopeful the region will see a fair share of the $1.2 billion. Rainier City Administrator Scott Jorgersen said improvements along Highway 30 should be a priority. “Somehow the plans for Highway 30 improvements became less and less of a priority (over the years),” he
said. “The city would hope that those improvements would again become a priority for ODOT.” The city has launched a feasibility study of Fox Creek flooding that could help lead to the Highway 30 improvements, according to Jorgersen. “Once we complete the study it may include suggestions on what improvements could be made for Highway 30,” he said. “Maybe a culvert replacement is part of that. Maybe a bridge. We won’t know for sure until that feasibility study is done.” See FUNDING Page A7
Metro Creative Connection / The Chief
Rainier, Clatskanie and other Columbia County city leaders are hopeful the region will receive a fair share of new federal transportation funding.
ColumbiaCountyOR.Gov/Vaccine | 503-397-7247
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Rainier moves to control landslides L ZOE GOTTLIEB chronicle2@countrymedia.net
The city of Rainier is implementing a new system to solve its latest landslide problem. Rainier City Council has awarded a bid to Advanced Excavating Specialists, LLC, a Longview, WA firm to perform emergency slide repair for the city. The specific landslide site currently requiring the city’s attention is along First Street. The affected area is near the intersection of West First and Hillard Streets. According to Rainier City Administrator Scott Jorgensen, in recent months the landslides became a public safety hazard, requiring intervention from the city. “This has been an ongo-
ing issue and due to the geography of Rainier, this area is very prone to landslides,” he said. “In this case, it was happening over off of First Street, and it got to the point where we had to essentially decommission the road and close it to vehicle traffic.” That slide area of First Street is not likely to open back up for vehicle use, according to Jorgensen. “What we didn’t want to do was spend a whole lot of money to continue making that road accessible for vehicles (when) there are other access points residents of that area can use,” he said. Jorgensen said the resulting damage to neighboring properties is also of key concern. “The big issue is the potential effects on neighbors,”
Zoe Gottlieb / The Chief
The affected landslide area has been closed off near the intersection of West First and Hillard Streets.
he said. “If you have more slippage and you continue having slippage, then it rolls downhill to affect their properties. We don’t want
that happening. We also don’t want our sewer line that runs under there to be compromised or damaged.” Jorgensen said that the
hit by climate change due to structural racism and systemic disparities are not left behind.
and around the country, according to Bonamici. “We have experienced devastating and deadly consequences from more frequent and severe extreme weather events, wildfires, drought, and ocean acidification; it is past time for action,” Bonamici said. “My colleagues and I are traveling to Glasgow at a pivotal moment.” Bonamici said she was optimistic that U.S. Congress can make the investments needed to address the climate crisis by passing the Build Back Better Act and reducing emissions, reaching America’s clean energy targets, and protecting frontline communities. “Failure is not an option, and we have science, public opinion, and momentum on our side,” Bonamici said.
city has so far taken precautions to make sure excavation efforts would not cause any further damage. “We had a geotechnical
report done which is common around here,” he said. “Anytime you have to you’re doing any earth work or moving any earth around on your property, you first have to do a geotechnical report to make sure that what you’re doing doesn’t impact your neighbors. We had that done, and we had a bid to do some work to shore up the sewer line and to prevent further slippage.” The landslide prevention plan will employ a number of safeguards, such as a manmade embankment, a brand-new culvert, and an inlet to divert runoff. Jorgensen said he expects the project to be done “sooner rather than later.” The bid document states S that the total cost of the proj- c ect will amount to $123,000.
Oregon leaders attend climate conference STAFF REPORT chiefnews@countrymedia.net
Gov. Kate Brown and a congressional delegation that includes Oregon Congresswoman Suzanne Bonamici traveled to Glasgow, Scotland for the 26th United Nations Climate Change Conference of the Parties. During the conference this week, Brown planned to discuss the impacts of climate change on Oregonians, as well as to highlight the actions Oregon has taken to reduce carbon emissions, transition to clean energy, and ensure that Oregonians disproportionately impacted by climate change are not left behind. Other U.S. governors were scheduled to join Brown to highlight the state-level actions that can
be taken around the world to address the climate crisis. “I have been Governor since 2015, and it was about that time that Oregon took a front row seat to climate change,” Brown said. “Nearly every year the extreme weather has been worse than the last. We are a warning for the rest of the world. “We must continue to move urgently and with focus—and we can tackle climate change and grow our economy at the same time. These goals are not mutually exclusive. Oregon is a shining example of how it can be done. “What is clear is we cannot leave behind our historically underserved communities. In Oregon, we have worked to ensure that our communities hardest
Failure is not an option. ~ Oregon Congresswoman Suzanne Bonamici
“Future generations will judge us not on the fact of climate change, but on what we have done to tackle it. The time is now, we can’t afford to wait.” In the two years since the last UN Climate Change Conference, climate change has become an even more undeniable part of the daily lives in Northwest Oregon
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b a Metro Creative Connection / The ChiefD Oregon Gov. Kate Brown and Oregon Congresswoman Suzanne Bon-i amici expressed concerns at the conference about the impact of globalfi a warming and the need to quickly find solutions. O s
Rail safety, mobility community meeting Invest in better long-range planning.
Develop better traffic forecasting for 20-and 30-year planning horizons so appropriate infrastructure investments can be made early on. Plan for the economy of the future and the future of freight transportation. Investigate the development of commuter rail from Columbia County into Portland. Build a pedestrian bridge in Scappoose. A pedestrian bridge in Scappoose was identified as critical by most stakeholders. The bridge should be located at High School Way and extend over both the railroad crossing and U.S. Highway 30 connecting to the west side of the highway. This Rail Safety and Mobility Study will be the focus of a community meeting Nov. 16. JEREMY C. RUARK jruark@countrymedia.net
Railroad crossing delays and safety impact all communities, businesses, residents, and visitors across Columbia County, a new study states. The Port of Columbia County has scheduled a virtual community question and answer session at 7 p.m. Tuesday, Nov. 16, to discuss the Columbia County Rail and Safety Mobility Study. The session will be held online through Zoom with phone in options. Zoom meeting details • Join Zoom Meeting at https://us02web.zoom. us/j/89153811055 • Dial by your location +1 253 215 8782 • Meeting ID: 891 5381 1055 Background
community), the PWR operates nearly 49 public atgrade crossings in Columbia County. The Port of Columbia County and its partners, City of Scappoose, City of St. Helens, City of Columbia City, City of Clatskanie, Columbia County, Columbia Economic Team, Teevin Bros., Global Partners, and NEXT Renewable Fuels, have commissioned a study to conduct an evaluation of the existing conditions of the at-grade crossings within the Columbia County rail corridor from both the roadway and railroad perspectives. The Port and its partners seek to build on prior studies to develop a list of top priority crossings and improvement concepts that can be funded for future design and construction. The study provides stakeholder and community outreach to help facilitate acceptance and endorsement of the top-tier priority at-grade crossings and to guide funding decisions by the Port or its partners across Columbia County.
Columbia County has grown and developed alongside the existing Portland & Western Railroad (PWR) rail line, which lies between and generally parallel to Priority improvements, Highway 30 and the Columpotential solutions. bia River throughout much of the 55-mile length of the During the preparation County. From Dike Street of the port’s report, stakein Scappoose to Woodson Road in Westport (west of the holders offered a wide array of potential solutions for Clatsop/Columbia County specific crossings and system line near this Clatsop County Columbia County’s trusted local news source
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improvements. The following are a few of the suggested solutions. See the full list with this story at thechiefnews. com. Help make acquiring rail crossing permits easier, less costly, and less time-consuming. Work with the railroad and other agencies to install a local or regional contact in the Pacific Standard Time Zone to assist in the rail crossing permit acquisition process. Develop a new siding in the unincorporated county outside of city limits. A new siding or yard will eliminate the need to use the undesirable sidings or yard in Columbia City, Scappoose, and most importantly St. Helens. Discontinuing use of the St. Helens yard would alleviate most of the issues with the Gable Road crossing. Longer trains would no longer block the crossing when stopped, and trains would be able to move more quickly through St. Helens, decreasing waiting time at crossings. Locating a new yard or siding in the county away from residents in the cities will reduce conflict as a result of noise, fires, mechanical works, and odor related to fuel or commodities.
Build at least one gradeseparated crossing in both Scappoose and St. Helens. Grade-separated crossings were widely discussed by all the stakeholders as necessary for long-term viability of the railroad in the community. An underpass was suggested at Columbia Avenue in
Scappoose. Other crossings identified by stakeholders as top priority for potential grade separation are Crown Zellerbach Road, High School Way, and Maple Street in Scappoose, and Gable Road in St. Helens. Install better freight route and directional signage. Multiple stakeholders advised that large freight trucks are frequently using less than ideal routes (like Old Portland Road in St. Helens) because their GPS or smartphone is directing the drivers without the understanding of difficulties on the ground. Install more crossing gates and lights in rural locations.
Complete a safety audit for rural crossings. Install gates and lights on Graham Road in Prescott. It is home to an aging population. Address the congestion related to school buses around the High School Way and Maple Street crossings in Scappoose. This was mentioned by stakeholders as one of the most urgent needs. This would address the stopping of school
m a o C buses at the tracks, not neces- w sarily pedestrian crossings v (stakeholders prefer a pedes- D trian bridge for those move- A ments). i Lead in community-first programs.
Investigate the establishment of a quiet zone around the schools in Scappoose. Multiple stakeholders exB pressed concern over the l consistent disruption to students and their academic t a success. Train noise in the middle school was described 1 as “deafening.” Initiate a public education i campaign on “How to be Good( Neighbors with the Railroad.” O This would include multime- l dia education on the value of h the railroad to the community H and how to live with and cross 1 h the railroad tracks safely. Hold the railroad account- t able for cleanup of commod- s ity spills and environmental O C degradation where they are responsible. S O What’s next? h The estimated cost of ( the rail safety and mobility S improvements and the funding a options are pending, according c to the port’s report. l
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Leisure, hospitality leading job growth
Metro Creative Connection / The Chief
Oregon’s leisure and hospitality industry is projected to see the fastest and largest number of jobs. STAFF REPORT chiefnews@countrymedia.net
Leisure and hospitality jobs in Clatskanie, Rainier, Columbia County and across the state are leading a surge in job growth. Oregon’s total employment is projected to grow by 317,600 jobs between 2020
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and 2030, according to new projections from the Oregon Employment Department (OED). The projections point to historically high job growth between 2020 and 2030 and accounts for recovery from low employment levels in 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic and its associated
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recession. In addition, many job openings are expected due to the need to replace workers who leave their occupations. In 2020, there were 1,998,400 jobs in Oregon. The projected 16% increase in employment between 2020 and 2030 includes privatesector gains of 283,500 jobs, growth of 25,700 jobs in government, and an additional 8,300 self-employed Oregonians. Beyond gains associated with the economic recovery from the COVID-19 recession and anticipated economic growth, another 2,197,200 job openings will be created by 2030 to replace workers who retire, leave the labor force for other reasons, or make a major occupational change. Together, the number of job openings due to economic recovery, job growth, and replacements will total 2,514,800. All sectors in Oregon are expected to add jobs by 2030. Leisure and hospitality is projected to increase the fastest
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bituaries •
Anna Schlaeg
Aug. 4, 1947 ~ Nov. 2, 2021
Anna Schlaeg, age 74, passed away peacefully on Tues., Nov. 2, 2021, at the Prairie View Healthcare Center in Woonsocket, after battling a long illness. Anna Ethel Davey was born Aug. 4, 1947, to Richard and Helen (Roberson) Davey, in Longview, Washington. She was the eldest of lfive children. She grew up across the river in Clatskanie, Oregon and graduated high school in 1966. In the 1980’s, Anna moved to Chloride, Arizona, and worked various jobs, one being the Assistant Fire Chief. She also was the first woman to work for the Nevada Highway Department. Due to her failing health, Anna moved to South Dakota in 2018, to be close to family.
One of Anna’s many passions were her horses. She enjoyed riding in parades and won many awards. Anna also loved studying about the great southwest. She loved watching NASCAR, especially when Dale Earnhardt, Jr. was racing. She was an
avid collector of Breyer horses and cat figurines. Anna was Roy Rogers’ biggest fan, and even met him once. Anna is survived by her two sisters, Minno Goodyear of Huron, South Dakota and Maggi Wright of Hurricane, Utah; three daughters, Kim, Karla and Jerri Ann; six grandchildren; one greatgrandson; as well as three nieces and three nephews. Anna was preceded in death by her parents; and two brothers, Rich and Joe Davey. A private burial will take place in Longview, Washington, at a later date. Arrangements are with the Kuhler Funeral Home, Huron, South Dakota. Visit www.kuhlerfuneralhome. com
Brian Booth
May 18, 1981 ~ Nov. 1, 2021
On Mon., Nov. 1, 2021 Brian James Booth, of Salem, Oregon, loving father of three children, passed away at the age of 40. Brian was born on May 18, 1981 in Longview, Washington to Mike and Shirley (Porter) Booth of Clatskanie, Oregon. Brian spent all of his life growing up in Clatskanie, he graduated from Clatskanie High School with the class of 1999. While in high school he lettered in football, wrestling and baseball. After high school he attended Western Oregon University studying Criminal Justice. He worked at the Oregon State Hospital in Salem, Oregon. Brian was raising his children, a son Tucker (14) and two daughters, Sawyer (10) and Evelyn (6), all of Salem, Oregon. These children were the light of his life. Brian loved to cook especially having his friends and
family over for a barbeque. He was a dedicated family man, spending his time doing activities with the kids and coaching them. He loved to go river rafting, camping and hunting. Brian was one of kind. He was loved by many because he enjoyed life and made those around him happy. Brian was preceded in death by his maternal grand-
parents, Kenneth and Louise Porter; paternal grandparents, Allen and Olive Booth; and an uncle Donald Porter. He is survived by his children, Tucker, Sawyer and Evelyn of Salem, Oregon; parents, Mike and Shirley Booth of Clatskanie, Oregon; sister Tracy Davila of Salem, Oregon; brother Cory (Linette) Booth of Osage Beach, Missouri; 10 nieces and nephews; 17 great nieces and nephews; and six aunts and uncles. Brian requested a celebration of life with no service. The celebration of life will be held from 2 p.m. – 4 p.m. on Nov. 14, 2021 at the Legion Hall on 5th Street in Clatskanie. For those who wish to donate, a trust fund will be setup for the children at the Wauna Federal Credit Union. Cards can be mailed to the family at 150 Bellflower Road, Clatskanie, Oregon 97016.
Shirley Curtis (Griffith) Nov. 16, 1944 ~ Oct. 6, 2021
Shirley Curtis (Griffith) of Longview passed on Oct. 6, 2021 at the Woodland Care Center. She was born Nov. 16, 1944 to Woodrow and Erple Griffith. She graduated R.A. Long High School in 1963. She married in 1964 and became a loving mother to twins I 1965. The family moved to Clatskanie, Oregon in 1972. While in Clatskanie she worked as a bartender, cafe owner/opera-
tor and school bus driver. She belonged to the Longview Women’s Club and Fire Bells. She moved back to Longview for a few years before being placed in the Woodland Care Center. Shirley loved raising and riding horses, spending time with friends and family and obtained her AS degree in Culinary Arts. Shirley is survived by her son Don Curtis (Doris) of Longview; granddaughter
Paula Curtis of Longview; and sister Darlene Kuehn (Gary) of Watsonville, California. She is preceded in death by her parents, Woodrow and Erple Griffith; brother Danny Ray Griffith; and son Ron Curtis. Graveside services will be held at 1 p.m. on Sat., Nov. 13, 2021 at Bunker Hill Cemetery with a potluck reception to follow at Steele Chapel.
Robert Ele
Jan. 13, 1963 ~ Nov. 4, 2021
Robert Ele, 58, of Longview, Washington passed away Nov. 4, 2021 in Vancouver, Washington.
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and add the largest number of jobs. The projected gain of 73,800 jobs (46% growth) in leisure and hospitality is mainly driven by the recovery from the pandemic, as restaurants, hotels, and arts, cultural, and recreational establishments are expected to see increased demand as in-person and recreational activities resume. Because of the loss of jobs in leisure and hospitality in 2020, many of the fastestgrowing occupations are associated with jobs in this industry. In fact, 10 of the top 20 fastest-growing occupations are in leisure and hospitality. They include cooks, chefs, bartenders, waiters and waitresses, fast food workers, exercise trainers and fitness instructors, and amusement and recreation attendants. The private health care and social assistance sector is projected to add the secondlargest number of jobs, with 51,000 jobs (19% growth) over the 10-year period. This growth is attributed to the aging of the state’s population,
longer life expectancies, and continued population growth. Nurse practitioners, physician assistants, and massage therapists are among the fastest-growing occupations statewide. A broad variety of career opportunities will be available across all sectors, as well as all job types. Onethird of all job openings will require education or training beyond high school at the typical entry-level education. To meet more competitive education requirements, more than half of job openings require at least some training beyond high school. Occupations with the most job openings, typically requiring a high school diploma or less, include fast food workers, retail salespersons, cashiers, stockers, and order fillers. Those requiring a postsecondary certification or associate’s degree include truck drivers, bookkeepers, and medical and nursing assistants. Occupations with the most total openings requiring at least a bachelor’s degree
vary from general and operations managers to registered nurses, software developers, and accountants. All areas of Oregon expect to see job opportunities due to both economic recovery and growth, and to replace workers leaving the labor force in the coming years. The two regions projected to grow at the fastest rates are Central Oregon (18%) and the Portland area (17%). Northwest Oregon is projected to grow at the same rate as Oregon statewide – 16%. All other areas are projected to have slower growth. More information about the 2020-2030 industry and occupational projections for Oregon and sub-state areas can be found at www.qualityinfo.org/projections. Fast Fact Ten of the top 20 fastest-growing occupations are in leisure and hospitality.
$129 million assisting families in need Applications in review
ZOE GOTTLIEB chronicle2@countrymedia.net
Oregon Housing and Community Services (OHCS) is granting $120 million in rental assistance to families in need. According to OHCS, 18,203 applicants received a total of $119.9 million in federal emergency rental assistance, up from $110.5 million and 16,877 applicants last week. In the past week, close to 700 applications have been processed, exceeding the agency’s 500-application target. OHCS accomplishments • Paid $119,942,913 to landlords and tenants to help 18,203 Oregon households, over $20 million in the past two weeks.
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Tenants applying to the Oregon Emergency Rental Assistance Program (OERAP) can receive help with bills to ensure they stay stably housed while qualifying for additional eviction protections.
• Processed and obligated an additional $35.8 million in funds for 3,963 households. • Received more than $343.2 million in funding requests via applications. • Received more than 44,861 completed applications.
OHCS says that 18,630 applications are currently under review, with the agency tracking when a tenant completes an application and the number of applicants that have not been paid outside of the 60day window. According to OHCS, the 60-/90-day window of protection begins when a tenant shows proof they applied for the program. Tenants applying to the Oregon Emergency Rental Assistance Program (OERAP) can receive help with bills to ensure they stay stably housed while qualifying for additional eviction protections. For more information about rental or landlord assistance, call OHCS at 503-986-2000.
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New port director looks ahead JEREMY C. RUARK jruark@countrymedia.net
Sean Clark knows he has a challenging role as the new Port of Columbia County Executive Director following his appointment in October by the five-member port board. Clark had been acting as interim executive director since the resignation of Douglas Hayes. Hayes resigned in late September and has been the focus of a port and police investigation of ‘possible misuse’ of port funds. In a one-on-one interview with the Chief, we asked if Clark felt the port has suffered an image challenge following Hayes resignation and the port and police investigation into the possible misuse of port funds. “I don’t think we have anything bad associated with the port and I don’t believe people think poorly of us, necessarily,” he said. “I am just going to continue on with what we have been doing trying to foster economic opportunities and bring some jobs.” Clark said the port has added controls following the investigation. “As part of our process we have auditing and financial controls in place so nothing like this will happen again,” he said.
Priorities Clark said he has a list of main priorities as executive director. “We have a vacant hanger building at the Scappoose Airpark that we actually built for a tenant that ended up not surviving the COVID issue, so we have that building available,’ He said. “We have our new business development and real estate manager on board and part of her duties will be getting that building filled and working on landing other new prospects.” Clark is also focusing on the McNulty Creek Industrial Park in St. Helens. He said the port is working with a Portland firm that is expanding its operations and could possibly locate at the industrial park. “We eventually plan a campus of light industrial buildings there,” he said. “The businesses would have to fit with the character of the county. We are not going to just take the first thing that comes along. It has to be a good fit for the port.” The port is currently marketing approximately 40 acres at the McNulty Creek Industrial Park. Clark said despite the COVID-19 pandemic, the port continues to work through Business Oregon and social media options to
Sean Clark
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seek opportunities to expand operations and jobs at the port properties. “A lot of times its tire kickers,” he said. “We have been using Zoom (electronic video connections) with prospect tenants.” As international travel begins to loosen with the easing of pandemic restrictions, Clark said he is hopeful the port’s new business development manager will participate in trade shows and other events to lure businesses from the Pacific Rim. “Having the worldwide web is definitely helping people to find us,” he said. Clark is also hopeful that the port’s improvements at the Scappoose Bay Marina will continue, which
includes updating the boat launch and separating the kayaks and motorboats. “Kayaking has increased in popularity so much because it is such a nice area down there,” he said. “We’ve seen a lot of kayak traffic.” Clark is also keeping a close watch on Port Westward, where the port generates 40% of its revenue. “We are waiting for the results of the appeal on the county commission’s approval of the rezone,” he said. “So we will continue to navigate that process. Once that is resolved we hope to develop land out there.” Development of the NEXT operations at Port Westward is also important for the county and the region, Clark said. “We are actively working with NEXT as they go through the permitting process,” he said. “The public process is huge and NEXT has been really good in having public sessions. The public engagement is really the touch point.” Clark said his biggest challenge is to help keep the port’s momentum going forward, working with the port’s partners and strengthening his staff, which would include the new development-real estate manager and possibly a project manager. According to Clark, past
port issues have been limited to development and recruiting. “Getting the staff right will hopefully help resolve those issues,” he said. History Clark is no stranger to the Port of Columbia County. After his family moved from the Portland area, he grew up in Goble and his father worked at the Beaver generating plant. During the summers, Clark would help his dad cut firewood on the property and work on the docks. Following his days in high school, Clark became a utility worker at the plant during the summer before he went off to college. He also worked two summers in forestry in the area. “Everything came full circle when I came back to work in 2014 as Port Westward terminal manager,” Clark said. In 2016 he became the port’s North County Terminal Operations Manager. In May of this year, he was appointed additional duties as the port’s deputy executive director. Clark was appointed as executive director by the Port of Columbia County Board in late October. Clark brings more than 12 years of port experience
and an extensive background in logistics and maritime management to his new position. Prior to joining the Port of Columbia County, he was the harbor master and facility security officer at the Port of Kalama in Washington. Clark said one of the key rewards as executive director will be retaining people who want to live and work in Columbia County. “I fully intend to make sure the port is here for our 100-year anniversary and that the port will continue with everything in place and continues to succeed,” he said. “That is the important thing. Economic development is what we do.” Clark’s starting salary is set at $131,000 a year and to be reviewed in six months, according to port records. For more information, contact the Port of Columbia County at 503-397-2888. Port Mission Maximize public resources and private investment to create jobs, provide infrastructure, and maintain and improve the economic vitality of Columbia County and its communities.
Local scouts seeking food for families
Clatskanie Cub Scouts show off donations they collected during a previous food drive. ZOE GOTTLIEB chronicle2@countrymedia.net
Clatskanie Cub Scout Troop #241 is encouraging the spirit of giving through their annual “Scouting For Food” program. The troop’s committee chair Teresa Johnson said Saturday, Nov. 13, The Scouts are aiming to repeat the success of last year’s food drive, in which over 1,500 pounds collected for Turning Point, the local food bank. “This year, we’re hoping to match our goal,” she said. “We are still in COVID. People are still trying to survive with unemployment and all of that. But I’m not really going to speculate because we could have another amazing year, and that’s what we’re hoping for.” Johnson said a few years back, the food drive gained traction like never before after the event was promoted heavily by parents. “We had a couple of really low years for scouting for food where we were only getting about 700 to 800 pounds,” Johnson said. “Two years ago, it was really touching, because a lot of our parents started reaching out to a lot of other community members, they started reaching out to a lot of other people and we actually hit our highest round ever two years ago.” According to Johnson, the food drive comes at a time of “high need.” The Scouts will be posted Editorial policy Opinions expressed on this page are independent of The Chief views and are solely those of the writers expressing them.
at both doors of the Safeway, 401 Columbia River Highway in Clatskanie, taking donations from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 13. “When people come up to go into Safeway, we ask them if they would be willing to help us help Turning Point, and if they can look at the list and see if there’s some items that they’re willing to pick up,” Johnson said. “Then when they go into do the regular grocery shopping, they also pick up items and put them in baskets for us.” The donations allow Turning Point, a community services center in Clatskanie, to assemble food boxes for families in need. “We just do this food drive to help (Turning Point) cut their costs on the food boxes, that way they can take the money that they have and put it to other places,” Johnson said. Turning Point offers local families in need with a range of services, including food, energy payments, transportation, housing assistance, Oregon Department of Human Services (DHS) applications, and prescription assistance. The Scouts will be accepting nonperishable donations. The pantry is seeking fruit, vegetables, milk, potatoes and Thanksgiving foods. Cub Scouts of America Johnson said working as chair for Troop 241 is an Letters policy This newspaper’s letters to the editor are limited to a maximum of 250 words and will be edited for grammar, spelling and blatant inaccuracies. Unsubstantiated or ir-
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unpaid position, but for her, the rewards are intrinsic. “I love the Boy Scouts of America. It’s been great working with everybody. It’s been great working as a team. I believe it teaches amazing values and life skills to both boys and girls,” Johnson said. “I think that (the) scouts have taken a lot of changes over the years. But I have seen that a lot of those changes have actually made things better.” One of the service projects Johnson said she remembers in detail was the Memorial Day cleanup of Stewart Creek Cemetery. “That was all my cubbies that did that,” she said. “I have kids out there from the ages of 5 to 11 with their parents, scrubbing tombstones, and we scrubbed all of the tombstones in the cemetery so that way, it was all cleaned up for everybody that wanted to go up and see their family member.” The Cub Scouts were formed in 1985 by the greater St. Louis area council and have an extensive history of serving the community.
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USFWS revising critical habitat
U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is finalizing a revised designation of critical habitat under the Endangered Species Act (ESA) for the northern spotted owl. “After a thorough review of scientific and commercial information and evaluation of public comments received on the proposed rule, we are withdrawing the January 15, 2021 rule which would have excluded 3.4 million acres of designated critical habitat through section 4(b) (2) of the ESA,” the USFWS states in a release. “This final rule excludes 204,294 racres of the 9.6 million acres of critical habitat, which is approximately 2% of the 2012 northern spotted owl designation.” This action will help conserve and recover spotted owls by identifying habitat needed for recovery of northern spotted owls in the long-term, according to the release. Additionally, active management of forests and invasive barred owl populations to make forest ecosystems healthier and more resilient to disease, insect outbreaks and the effects of climate change, such as increased frequency of adroughts and catastrophic wildfires, will be vital. “The importance of maintaining high quality habitats for northern spotted owls cannot be overstated in light of the challenges we’re facing with climate change and increasing competition
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Courtesy from the USFWS
The action will help conserve and recover spotted owls by identifying habitat needed for recovery of northern spotted owls in the long-term, according to the USFWS.
from the invasive barred owl,” USFWS’s Regional Director for the ColumbiaPacific Northwest Robyn Thorson said. “This designation provides a healthy and resilient landscape for the spotted owl and other native Northwest wildlife while still supporting sustainable timber harvest.” This exclusion includes 184,133 acres of Bureau of Land Management-administered lands allocated for timber harvest in 15 Oregon counties. Their revised Resource Management Plans for western Oregon incorporate key aspects of the Northern Spotted Owl Recovery Plan that will continue to
help conserve and improve habitat for the owl over time on these lands. Additionally, approximately 20,000 acres of Indian lands are included in the exclusion. These are lands recently transferred under the Western Oregon Tribal Fairness Act to the Confederated Tribes of the Coos, Lower Umpqua and Siuslaw Indians and the Cow Creek Band of Umpqua Tribe of Indians. The northern spotted owl is protected as a threatened species under the ESA, and a critical habitat designation identifies those areas that are essential to recovery of the species. The USFWS found that the 3.4 million acres excluded in the January 15, 2021, revised designation would have left too little habitat to conserve the species, ultimately resulting in the extinction of the northern spotted owl. Critical habitat does not provide additional protections for a species on nonfederal lands unless proposed activities involve federal funding or permitting. Critical habitat designations also do not affect land ownership or establish a refuge, reserve, preserve or other conservation area, nor does it allow the government or public to access private lands, according to USFWS.
Metro Creative Connection / The Chief
Drug prices play a major role in health care decisions of Oregonians and the cost of prescription drugs have steadily increased in the past 10 years.
Prescription drug survey The Oregon Department of Consumer and Business Services (DCBS) is asking for the public’s help before its third annual public hearing on prescription drug prices. The department set up a brief survey – http://dcbspage. org/RxStories – for consumers to ask questions and share their stories about rising prescription drug prices. Drug prices play a major role in health care decisions of Oregonians and the cost of prescription drugs have steadily increased in the past 10 years, according to the
state agency. The department wants to know what questions you have about the increase in prescription drugs and how has it affected you and your family. The hearing is scheduled for 1 to 3 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 8. The Prescription Drug Price Transparency Act (ORS 646A.689) directed Oregon DCBS to establish a transparency program to accept reports and disclose certain information from prescription drug manufacturers, health insurance carriers, and consum-
Nov. 13-14 Holiday Bazaar Look for over 25 local artists andcraftspeopletowillhelpyou prepare for the holidays at the From 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday and Sunday at the Caples House Holiday Bazaar. See a wide variety of gift items at one place, including framed nature photography,NativeAmerican art and regalia, quilts, jewelry, ceramics,driedgourds,baskets, leather bags, glassware, metal art, candles, soaps, toys, and so much more. Free admittance. Snacks and lunch for sale in
the Tea Cottage. Silent auction with stuffed Thanksgiving and Christmasbaskets.CaplesHouse Museum is located at 1925 First StreetinColumbiaCity.Formore information,call503-397-5390or email CaplesHouse@comcast. net.
The final rule is available online at: https://www. federalregister.gov/publicinspection/current.
Dec. 6 Holiday Concert A holiday concert featuring MichaelAllenHarrisonisscheduled for 6 p.m. at the Columbia City Community Hall, 1850 Second St. in Columbia City. Tickets are $20 per person and may be purchased at Columbia City Hall, 1840 Second St. in ColumbiaCity.Seatingislimited. Masks must will be required at alltimes.Allproceedswillbenefit the Columbia City Community
Library. For more details, call 503-397-4010. Don Coin Walrod Scholarship TheDeerIslandGrangeisnow accepting applications for the Don Coin Walrod Scholarship. The scholarship is created for aColumbiaCountyhighschool senior.Applicantsmayattenda tradeschool,communitycollege, oruniversityoftheirchoice,but mustmajorinagriculture,education,forestry,oranimalscience. Applicationsareavailablefrom each of the Columbia County highschoolcounselorofficesand must be post marked by April 1, 2022. Mail applications to: Don CoinWalrodScholarship,64556 Columbia River Highway, Deer Island, Oregon 97054.
For more information about the program and details about how to participate in the virtual hearing go to dfr. oregon.gov/drugtransparency.
Winterizing your pet
•C ommunit y E vents • •
Nov. 13 Food Drive Local Boys Scouts collecting nonperishablefoodfrom9a.m.to 2p.m.attheClatskanieSafeway, 401 Columbia River Highway.
ers on drug prices. The goal of the program, which is part of the Division of Financial Regulation, is to provide accountability for prescription drug pricing through the notice and disclosure of specific drug costs and price information from pharmaceutical manufacturers, health insurers, and consumers.
Metro Creative Connection / The Chief
Pet owners are encouraged to take steps now to keep the animals safe this fall and winter.
Winter is a time we should pay close attention to the safety of our pets. The Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office has issued the following safety tips to follow: With the change in weather, it’s a good time to monitor your pet’s food intake. Pets who live outdoors should be fed a bit more in the winter because they need the extra calories to stay warm. Indoor pets typically receive less exercise during cold weather and may require fewer calories. Oregon law requires
all companion animals be provided shelter from the elements. They also should have fresh water put out a couple of times a day, or consider a special bowl that prevents the water from freezing. In severe weather, allow your pet in your house or garage. If your pet goes outdoors, be aware of the temperature. Pets can get frostbite very easily on the ears, tail, and paws. When walking your dog in freezing conditions, check the paws to make sure that
ice is not building up between the toes and that salt or gravel from the roads is not irritating the skin. If your dog is a swimmer, keep them on a leash around open water or unstable ice. Hypothermia can set in quickly and your dog may be unable to get out of the water. Before you start your car, ensure no kittens have decided to nap in a warm spot by honking the horn or banging on the hood. If you are decorating for the holidays, keep ornaments out of the reach of your pets. Remember that poinsettias, holly, mistletoe, and other plants can be toxic if ingested. Ingesting anti-freeze can be fatal for your dog or cat. It has a sweet taste and even a tiny amount can cause severe kidney damage and even death. You can use a pet-safe antifreeze--look for brands containing propylene glycol instead of ethylene glycol. If you spill anti-freeze, soak it up immediately. (Clay kitty litter works well and discard the litter once the anti-freeze has been absorbed.) For more information and tips, visit www.lincolncountysheriff.net.
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F
CC21-1543
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NOTICE OF GENERAL MEETING CLATSKANIE PEOPLE’S UTILITY The Clatskanie Farmstatistics from 2021 commost votes will become the ers Market will host the pared to previous years and 2022 Board. An application DISTRICT MEETING NOTICE Annual General Meeting discussion about the future for the Board of Directors on Thursday, December 9, 2021 starting at 6:30 PM. It will be held at the Blue Nutria: 80 NE Art Steele St., Clatskanie, OR 97016. All vendors and the public are invited. Agenda items will include but are not limited to: a short board meeting that will include approving minutes from the last meeting and the treasurer’s report; Market
of the Clatskanie Farmers Market. It is important that all vendors and members of the community attend this meeting if you are interested in giving input about the Market’s future. We will also have an election for the 2022 Board of Directors (BOD). The minimum number of board members is five, the maximum is nine. The nine people getting the
is now available on our website (clatskaniefarmersmarket.com). We will accept applications through December 6, 2021. Please mail applications for the Board of Directors to: Clatskanie Farmers Market, PO Box 1501, Clatskanie, OR 97016. Attn: BOD application Or email the BOD application to: clatskaniefarmersmarket@gmail.com.
CC21-1525
IN THE MATTER OF STATE OF OREGON CIRCUIT COURT FOR COLUMBIA COUNTY (PROBATE DEPT) KIRK W. FRASER, DECEASED;
Estate personal representatives are Scott and Vance Fraser, PO Box 611, Clatskanie OR 97016. TO INTERESTED PERSONS: Those having claims against
the estate are required to present them, with vouchers, within four months after first notice date of 10-29-2021, to the above representatives, or they may be barred. All
persons whose rights may be affected by the proceeding can obtain additional information from court records, the personal representatives, or their attorney.
CC21-1537
NOTICE OF PUBLIC MEETING CLATSOP COUNTY COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE NORTHEAST PLANNING AREA CITIZEN ADVISORY COMMITTEE NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the Clatsop County Comprehensive Plan Update Northeast Planning Area Citizen Advisory Committee will hold a public meeting at 4:00 PM on Thursday, November 18, 2021, via GoTo Meeting. The committee will be discussing the Northeast Community Plan. Topics of discussion may include other Goals and policies related to the Northeast planning area. To join the meeting: Please join from your computer,
tablet or smartphone. https:// global.gotomeeting.com/ join/241020789 You can also dial in using your phone. United States (Toll Free): 1 877 309 2073 United States: +1 (571) 317-3129 Access Code: 241-020-789 New to GoToMeeting? Get the app now and be ready when your first meeting starts: https://www.co.clatsop.or.us/ calendar An agenda will be posted seven days prior to the hearing at: https://www. co.clatsop.or.us/calendar. All documents are available
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NOTICE OF MEETING The regular meeting of the Clatskanie Park & Recreation District will be held on Thursday, November 18, 2021, at 6:00pm at 555 SW Bryant St. Clatskanie, OR, Port of Columbia County
Offices (the Old Middle School). Items on the agenda include but are not limited to: General Park maintenance and pool operation update(s). Board Chair. Andrew Mustola
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for inspection at the Clatsop County Planning Division at 800 Exchange St, Suite 100, during normal business hours (M-F 7:30 a.m.-4 p.m.) at no cost. Paper copies may also be obtained at reasonable cost. The full agenda packet is posted at: https://www.co.clatsop. or.us/calendar. If you have questions about this matter or need more information, please contact the Planning Division at (503) 325-8611 or at comdev@co.clatsop. or.us.
The Clatskanie People’s Utility District Board of Directors has scheduled the next regular Board meeting for Wednesday, November 17, 2021 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 workshop and/or meeting, pursuant to: ORS 192.660 (2) (f) information or records that
are exempt by law from public inspection. AGENDA CLATSKANIE PEOPLE’S UTILITY DISTRICT BOARD WORKSHOP on Wednesday, November 17, 2021 at 5:30 P.M. I. LOKI ASSESSMENT PRESENTATION: Paul Dockery and Brian Taylor II. STAFF REPORTS UPDATE CLATSKANIE PEOPLE’S UTILITY DISTRICT REGULAR BOARD MEETING on Wednesday, November 17, 2021 at 6:00 P.M. I. PUBLIC COMMENTS
II. CONSENT AGENDA · Minutes of Board Workshop, October 20, 2021 · Minutes of Regular Board Meeting, October 20, 2021 · Review payment of bills for October 2021 III. ACTION ITEMS · Resolution 21-06 Clatskanie PUD 2022 Budget · Resolution 21-07 CoBank Authorized Signatories Update IV. DISCUSSION / INFORMATIONAL ITEMS · Board Comments & Calendar V. EXECUTIVE SESSION VI. ADJOURNMENT
NOTICE OF PUBLIC SALE CC21-1532
Notice is hereby given that Columbia NW Self Storage located at 75764 Heath Rd. Rainier, OR 97048. Will sell to satisfy lien of the owner, by public sale via on-line auc-
tion @ storageauctions.com. The following storage units, F11 Dana McDonald misc. boxes and Furniture. C15 Domenika Galpern misc. bags of clothing, boxes. F34 Kari
Hollander large totes, boxes and safe. Auction dates are set for 11/5/21 thru 11/19//21. Bidder must comply with storageauctions. com rules of sale stated on the website.
CC21-1540
NOTICE OF PUBLIC MEETING CLATSOP COUNTY COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE JOINT PLANNING COMMISSION / COUNTYWIDE CITIZEN ADVISORY COMMITTEE MEETING
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the Clatsop County Planning Commission and Comprehensive Plan Update Countywide Citizen Advisory Committee will hold a public meeting at 9:00 AM on Tuesday, November 23, 2021, via GoTo Meeting. The committee will be discussing Statewide Planning Goal 6 – Air, Water, and Land Resources Quality; Statewide Planning Goal 8 – Recreational Needs; and Statewide Planning Goal 13 – En-
ergy Conservation. Other Goals and policies related to these goals may also be discussed. To join the meeting from your computer, tablet or smartphone. https:// global.gotomeeting.com/ join/836196197 You can also dial in using your phone. United States (Toll Free): 1 866 899 4679 United States: +1 (669) 224-3317 Access Code: 836-196-197 An agenda will be posted seven days prior to the hearing at: https://www.co.clatsop.or.us/ calendar. All documents are
available for inspection at the Clatsop County Planning Division at 800 Exchange St, Suite 100, during normal business hours (M-F 7:30 a.m.-4 p.m.) at no cost. Paper copies may also be obtained at reasonable cost. The full agenda packet is posted at: https://www. co.clatsop.or.us/calendar. If you have questions about this matter or need more information, please contact the Planning Division at (503) 325-8611 or at comdev @ co.clatsop.or.us.
Friday, November 12, 2021
FUNDING From Page A1
Another area of transportation safety concern is Veterans Way near Rainier City Park. “At that location there are multiple lanes of Highway 30 in both directions,” Jorgensen said. “It is extremely dangerous for pedestrians to cross and dangerous for drivers as well because of the fast traffic. It is an area the city council has been concerned about for some time.” Jorgensen said he is hopes once the Fox Creek study is done, the city can
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www.thechiefnews.com meet with ODOT in sessions facilitated by state Sen. Betsy Johnson. “We want to make sure things get done,” he said. “Even if we aren’t on the first priority list to receive a portion of the new federal funds, this could free up other money for projects in Rainier.” According to Jorgensen, the Oregon Legislature fairly divided the recent funding from the federal American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA). “The legislature did a good job in getting the ARPA funds evenly distributed across the state. I would hope that they take the same approach with this new federal
funding,” Jorgensen said. Clatskanie City Manager Greg Hinkelman said he’ll consider the city’s options about additional funding from ODOT. “I have no requests into ODOT for any project funding other that the alreadyawarded grant for improvements to Tichenor Street,” Hinkelman said. “If ODOT sends out a request for projects, I will sit down with my public works director and figure out what, if anything, we want to do.” Van Brocklin said the Oregon Transportation Commission (OTC) and ODOT will direct the funds, combined with state funding
from the Oregon Legislature to “make real progress” on Oregon’s transportation priorities. A portion of the $1.2 billion will be allocated over the next five years for highway and bridge construction and maintenance, safety improvements, mass transit investments, bicycle and pedestrian facilities, electric vehicle charging stations, and efforts to reduce carbon emissions from transportation sources, according to Van Brocklin. “These resources will help us address congestion, which is increasing in our urban areas as the state’s population continues to
grow; freight mobility, earthquake recovery preparedness, passenger rail, and other elements of the comprehensive mobility system we seek to create,” Van Brocklin said. “All of this work will focus on improving our economy, our environment, and the quality of life of all Oregonians. Working together, we can attain this vision.” In anticipation of this major new commitment at the federal level, beginning in 2020, OTC and ODOT began working on a number of changes to create a modern transportation system that prioritizes equity, climate, safety, and the delivery of reliable transportation options
to serve the diverse need of citizens and businesses across the state, according to Van Brocklin. “These early efforts position us to quickly invest the federal funds we receive and additional funds we will seek from new and continuing federal grant programs authorized by the bill Congress passed last weekend,” he said. “The Oregon Transportation Commission and ODOT are deeply grateful for the hard work of our federal delegation to make this historic legislation a reality. We look forward to putting these new resources to work to build a better future for the people of Oregon.”
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‘Thread in the Rope,’ Veteran recalls service ZOE GOTTLIEB chronicle2@countrymedia.net
Three-war veteran Warren resident Gordon Driscoll has been all over the world, seen extreme poverty, witnessed the deaths of friends, and to this day, he still thinks the best of humanity. Driscoll’s background Driscoll was born in the former home of American West artist Charles Russell in Great Falls, MT. He was raised six miles west of Goble with his parents and two sisters, squeezed together in a three-room shack, as he described the home. Driscoll grew up in the midst of the Great Depression — an era of food and financial insecurity. He said that despite their troubles, the people around him lead happy lives. “We didn’t know any different,” he said. “That’s the way life was.” At times, Driscoll said, schoolkids had such little funds that they took to selling strawberries and blackberries to buy school supplies. “I threw a few at the girls,” he added with a laugh. In his generation, people were generally more apprecia-
tive of what they had, according to Driscoll. “If something falls on your lap, you’ll never appreciate that, but if you have to get out there and work, you’ll appreciate it. You take care of it. Maybe I’m wrong, but that’s the way we’re taught,” he said. After his elementary years, Driscoll attended Beaver Homes Grange School and later, Rainier High School. He was 14 when World War II (WWII) broke out, and at 16 he began working for Swan Island Shipyard, an area where T2 tankers were developed for the war effort. “We looked like Kentucky racehorses,” he said, recalling the boom in productivity at the onset of WWII. Driscoll volunteered for his first B-29 mission before joining the U.S. Merchant Marines which, according to him, had the most casualties than any other military branch during the war. He was what he calls a “scrub boy” for a time and played the role of peacekeeper among his fellow troops. “I saved three people’s lives,” he said. “The first one was going to jump out the porthole. He drank too much.” According to Driscoll, the soldier was out the porthole at
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Zoe Gottlieb / The Chief
Gordon Driscoll shows off a photo of himself in uniform in his younger years. Driscoll spent 25 years of life in service to the U.S. Military.
nighttime and went right into the ocean. “All I could see was two legs and his butt sticking out,” Driscoll said. “I grabbed him, and I pulled on the leg. There was another fella in there, Lug Lug. And I said ‘Lug Lug!
Grab him! You got to help me.’ We put him to bed. The next day I told him, and he said, ‘Gordon, I don’t remember a thing.’” Following his stint with the U.S. Merchant Marines, he joined the U.S. Army and
completed his basic training at Camp Roberts before serving in the Korean War. His deployment lasted two years. “It was close combat back then,” he said, describing the war environment. “You learned to either kill or get killed.” Driscoll served in the military for 25 years total, and for seven-and-a-half of them, he was deployed at sea on 23 different ships, making stops in Japan, Los Angeles, Tahiti and New Zealand, among many others. Despite his long history of service, Driscoll said he has never killed anybody. Driscoll considers himself fortunate to have traveled the world, and also to have experienced such a wide array of cultures. The Chief asked Driscoll why he enlisted in the military service. “I certainly don’t go blabbing about service and all that,” he said. “I just knew it was my job.” Takeaways from the war
The dangers of war didn’t do much to deter Driscoll from enlisting, he said, citing an example. “When you drive down the road, you’re only three or four
m n a s “ D a g t b w p
r m n t feet from eternity. I just felt h like it was my job,” he said. c Despite having witnessed t the atrocities of war, includingi the death of one of his dear w friends, Driscoll said he main- s tains his optimistic perspec- a m tive on humanity. “There’s so many people W in this world that are good d people,” he said. “Most Americans are good people.” e Driscoll said he gained a s multicultural perspective fromi his war travels and that per- t spective changed his outlook y a on life. “(War) had changed me, a I don’t think a whole lot but c my world traveling – all the o people I’ve met, the hunger, the difference in environment W where we grew up, (made) t me believe that going through c tough times makes a better o t personality.” l Driscoll also said he c worries about our future, given the current state of our a e country. “During the war, we all s held hands. We had victory l gardens. It was safe,” he said. p “(Now) it is so divided.” On Nov. 14, 2009, Con- W gress recognized Driscoll witht a certificate of honor to com- h memorate his years of service.d h “I’m no hero,” he said. “I’m just a little thread in the r o rope.” w
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Reflect and take stock KELLY FITZPATRICK Chief Guest Column
For me, like many of my fellow veterans, Oregonians and Americans, it is a time to reflect and take stock. One year ago, we “gathered” for a Veterans Day unlike any before it, in a virtual environment that gave us some flexibilities that we never had before, but we had to forego the warmth of being with other people. Now, as we cautiously return to an environment more closely resembling normalcy, it’s appropriate to take stock of all that we have to celebrate. We as a country have much to be thankful for, and much of it is thanks to our veterans who fought for freedom and stood guard over our peace, and to our fallen heroes who made the ultimate sacrifice. We remember our World War II veterans, the sadly dwindling “Greatest Generation,” who have much still teach us about the importance of self-sacrifice to a greater cause. Some 80 years ago, these brave men and women left their homes and families to answer the call — not only for their own country, but the world. We honor our Korean War veterans, who fought in the “Forgotten War,” which came so soon after the Second World War that it is often overlooked. In a foreign land, they endured freezing conditions and disease in addition to an unrelenting enemy, often against impossible odds, and made a lasting contribution to world peace and prosperity. We thank our Vietnam War veterans, who, regrethtably, did not receive the heroes’ welcome that they .deserved upon returning home from battle, and this remains a painful stain on our national memory that we must work hard to erase.
Courtesy photo
Kelly Fitzpatrick is the director of the OregonVeterans Affairs Department
Yet, these remarkable men and women refused to turn their backs on their fellow veterans. Vowing that another generation of service members would never face what they had to endure, many of them remain engaged in serving their fellow veterans. We remember our veterans who represent the peacetime era, serving under the near-constant specter of the Cold War and prepared to confront any enemy that might threaten national security around the globe. Many of them engaged in so-called “small wars” in Grenada, or other military operations in farflung nations such as Bosnia, Somalia and a host of
other nations on the African continent. And, we honor our veterans of the conflicts of the Middle East and Afghanistan. Many of these veterans entered the Armed Forces in the wake of the terrible attack on September 11, 2001, and fought and sacrificed to ensure that the United States would not experience similar attacks. Thankfulness, gratitude, honor and remembrance: This is the duty and responsibility of all Americans who have not worn the uniform — and it is these principles that are embodied in the more than 75-year tradition of Veterans Day. Originally known as Armistice Day, the occa-
sion celebrated the Allied victory in World War II. It was motivated by a simple, two-word phrase from the heart of our country: “Thank you.” Gratitude is a simple yet powerful thing. It has a way of humbling us, bettering us and reminding us of what’s most important. We have much to be thankful for: The freedoms and way of life that we have long enjoyed, the peace that has been secured for our children and grandchildren — it is our veterans and service members we have to thank for that: Brave men and women who answered the call, ready to face the fire and, if necessary, pay the ultimate price on our behalf. That’s my message this Veterans Day, and every day, to all who wore the uniform, regardless of branch, era, rank, duties, race, ethnicity, gender identity or sexual orientation, religion, creed or ability: Thank you for your service. Please consider joining me and ODVA for our Oregon Statewide Veterans Day Ceremony, which will take place at 2 p.m. Nov. 10 — the day before Veterans Day — at Oregon State Capitol Park, directly across from the front entrance of the Capitol Building. The event will take place in person and outdoors, with social distancing and mask requirements in place. It will also be livestreamed on ODVA’s Facebook page at facebook.com/odvavet. Kelly Fitzpatrick is the director of the Oregon Department of Veterans’ Affairs and Governor Kate Brown’s policy advisor on veterans’ issues. She is a retired Army officer. Her military awards and decorations include multiple awards of the Meritorious Service Medal, the Southwest Asia Service Medal and the Army Parachutist Badge.
Courtesy from Hometown Heroes of Columbia County
Hometown Heroes have placed these small flags at Clatskanie City Park in honor of local veterans.
Hometown Heroes honors veterans DOUG WALKER Chief Guest Article
A small but heartfelt Thank You to Veterans Past, Present and Future began to appear at Veteran’s Parks all over Columbia County. The Hometown Heroes of Columbia County found this way to not only thank but to also honor all those who have signed a contract with the American people to defend our country and our unique way of life from all enemies foreign and domestic. Whether serving at home or on foreign soil
these patriots have been, and are, willing to give their all for our greater good. Fewer than 1% of our population have agreed to put their life on the line so that the other 99% can enjoy doing what we do. For around 250 years our service men and women sacrifice so the rest don’t have to. Our Thank You message extends to those who, at some time in the future, will don the uniform and sign that contract. God Bless All Veterans and God Bless America. Doug Walker represents the Columbia County Hometown Heroes.
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Friday, November 12, 2021
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We said we’d never forget, will we? JOSEPH REAGAN Chief Guest Column
On November 11, 1918, Ralph Lindsey wrote from his hospital bed in France “Armistice signed at 11 o’clock. Grand celebration all over France. War is at last over and I am still alive!” Later in life if you asked him about the scars on his chest he would simply respond with a shrug and say, “I zigged when I should have zagged.” Ralph was my Great Grandfather, and now, nearly 103 years after he wrote those words our nation once again finds ourselves celebrating the contributions of our Veterans during a period where their sacrifices may be less visible than they have during the past 20 years of war. After returning from WW1, like many others from his unit, he found tremendous success, he took over the family business, and raised a family. His friends H.A. Durkee and Fred Mower, both former Infantrymen, started a small company based on a unique marshmallow confection. Another from his unit, Walter Brennan, is one of only three men to win three academy awards, his distinct voice the result of the same gas attack that wounded my Great Grandfather. Take a moment to look at Brennan’s accomplishments – IMDb lists nearly 250 film credits and called him “In many ways the most successful and familiar character actor of American sound films.” To be clear, the end of the United States’ involvement in the Afghan war doesn’t mean our Service Members are serving without risk. Our military
will continue to execute missions across the globe in support of our national security, some of those more sensitive missions, may never be known to us. That aside, superficially this Veterans Day will be much like years past with parades, speeches, and free meal deals in honor of the nearly 19 million Veterans living in our communities. Unfortunately, for many Veterans – especially those who served in combat – may see this acknowledgement as at best, shallow and at worst, patronizing. Even before the fall of Kabul, many Veterans complained that while they believed Americans were genuinely grateful for their service, few cared enough to actually learn about the sacrifices our all-volunteer military makes on their behalf. This civil-military divide is not only impacting the military’s ability to recruit new troops, but also our Veterans’ ability to find meaningful post-service careers. A few years ago, I was traveling from a conference in D.C. in uniform, I was seated next to a young man who was wearing a sweatshirt from a very prestigious college in the D.C. area. He was clearly bright, affable, and I was enjoying our preflight conversation when he turned to me and said, “so you’re in the military, did you not get a chance to graduate high school?” This is just one of the many, many cringeworthy stories demonstrating the real-life challenges of this civil-military divide. This divide is even more pronounced in Congress where in the 1970s, nearly 80% of the members of Congress had served in the U.S. Mili-
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tary; today, less than 20% of the 117th Congress have ever worn a uniform. When my Great Grandfather, and Grandfather returned from WW1 and WW2, respectively, they entered a job market that was saturated with fellow Veterans, who understood them and the value they bring to our communities as did our elected representatives. A congressional study in the late 80s looked at the return on investment on Veterans programs (e.g., the GI Bill) found that for every dollar spent on Veterans’ benefits, nearly $7 came back to the community through some form of economic output. Having worked with numerous Veterans’ groups since leaving active duty I can tell you, this figure is an understatement. The truth about our Veterans since the end of the draft in the 70s has become increasingly diverse as individuals saw (and continue to see) the military as a way to achieve economic mobility. They are smart, driven, resilient, and entrepreneurial – words that most Americans like my seat mate – don’t always associate with a Veteran. After WW2 nearly 50% of Veterans owned their own business, like my Great Grandfather; and most Veterans outperform their non-military peers in the long run. There is still work to do, while many Veterans thrive in their post-service years others struggle. Veterans continue to be over-represented in the homeless population, court system, substance misuse disorders, and suicide deaths. These are hard problems, but they are solvable ones. For the past 20 years Americans
have claimed we support our troops, but how we choose to treat our Veterans over the next few years will be the measure of whether we meant it or not. As a nation we put an impossible burden on a small group of men and women who volunteered to serve – fully knowing the hazards of their chosen profession. If we are truly a grateful their service, we will invest in those individuals who have invested so much in our freedoms. Each generation of Veterans have shown time and time again, that when they thrive, our communities, and our nation thrives as well.
About Joseph Reagan
Joseph Reagan is the Director of Military and Veterans Outreach for national nonprofit Wreaths Across America. He has over 10 years’ experience working with leaders within Government, nonprofit, and Fortune 500 companies to develop sustainable strategies supporting National Security, and Veterans Health. He served eight years on active duty as an officer in the U.S. Army including two tours to Afghanistan with the 10th Mountain Division. He is a graduate of Norwich University, the oldest private military college in the country.
About Wreaths Across America
Wreaths Across America is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization founded to continue and expand the annual wreath-laying ceremony at Arlington National Cemetery begun by Maine businessman Morrill Worcester in 1992. The organization’s mission – Remember, Honor, Teach – is carried out in part each year by coordinating wreath-laying ceremonies in December at Arlington, as well as thousands of veterans’ cemeteries and other locations in all 50 states and beyond.