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Deadly heat wave
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FRIDAY, JULY 2, 2021
VOL. 130, NO. 8 Serving the Lower Columbia Region since 1891
Oregon, Columbia County reopens JEREMY C. RUARK jruark@countrymedia.net AURORA BIGGERS chronicle2@countrymedia.net
As Gov. Kate Brown’s executive order reopening the state’s economy took effect Wednesday, June 30, most businesses and public offices began to return to normalcy. “We are encouraging people to carefully reengage,” Clatskanie Chamber of Commerce Director Monica Seidl said. “We are hopeful for businesses to get back to work and be able to hire employees.” Seidl said the chamber is asking customers to be patient with businesses that are short staffed and doing what they can to navigate that situation.
We are encouraging people to carefully reengage. ~ Monica Seidl, Clatskanie Chamber of Commerce
“It has been a long year and a half, but I think this is a step in the right direction,” she said of the reopening. “Those who wanted to be vaccinated are, and those who have not been vaccinated have been given the opportunity. We all have different belief systems and need to respect everyone’s freedom. It is after-all our Independence Week. We should
Metro Creative Connection / The Chief
As Oregon emerges from the pandemic, businesses and government officials contacted by The Chief expressed cautious optimism.
all be celebrating our country and the right we have to be free.” At Bundy’s Cafe and Drive-In along Highway 30, the owner’s son, Tom Howe said, “I’m not sure about that yet” - when asked if they were changing policies. Howe said Bundy’s employees
were still wearing masks while on duty as of Wednesday afternoon, June 30. The Chief reached out to Clatskanie city officials for comments about the reopening, but had not received responses by press time.
Rainier already moving ahead In Rainier, City Administrator Scott Jorgensen said the Rainier City Hall reopened to the public several weeks ago, on March 1. “That was due to the county’s risk level being lowered at that
point from Extreme to High,” Jorgensen said. “Also, the city had received COVID-related grant funding to pay for a touchless entry system and safety and security enhancements to limit any potential exposure for employees and the public. Those improvements were completed in late February, so we felt it was appropriate to reopen and that it could be done safely at that time.” Jorgensen said the city council meetings were held via Zoom for a few months, but the city resumed traditional in-person meetings around in late spring, with social distancing and masks being worn by all. “It’s always been the city’s policy to adhere to the public health guidelines put forth by state regulators,” he said. “The widespread distribution of the vaccine and the wearing of masks gave those regulators enough confidence to move forward with lifting restrictions. Jorgensen said city employees are welcome to continue wearing face coverings if they wish, but the city has not imposed any restrictions beyond what state officials implemented. If the state is no longer requiring masks to be worn, Jorgensen said the city will not be requiring its employees to do so. “The public has endured much discomfort and inconvenience over the last year for the sake of limiting the spread of the virus,” he said. “Business owners have been strained by capacity limits See REOPEN Page A5
New city mural planned AURORA BIGGERS chronicle2@countrymedia.net
Courtesy photo from the Port of Columbia County
The NEXT Renewable Fuels biofuels plant will utilize this dock at Port Westward in Clatskanie.
What’s next for NEXT? JEREMY C. RUARK jruark@countrymedia.net
The Port of Columbia County has scheduled two community open houses to provide an update concerning development of a $1.6 billion renewable diesel production facility at Port Westward. The open house from 6 to 8 p.m. July 8, will be conducted at the Clatskanie Cultural Center, 75 S. Nehalem Street in Clatskanie and a second meeting will be held July 14 in St. Helens to update the progress of the NEXT Renewable Fuels bio-refinery project. Port Executive Director Doug Hayes told The Chief in an earlier published interview, that when complete, the NEXT Re-
Obituaries ................. A3 Clatskanie Grows .... A4 Classified Ads ......... A5 Crossword ................ A6 July 4th Events ..... A7-8
newable facility will have capacity to produce approximately 50,000 barrels a day of renewable diesel fuel. “Renewable diesel is different than other biofuels because it is a fully replaceable product to current diesel fuel and based on initial production, the net emissions savings will be equal to removing 1 million vehicles from the road,” Hayes said. “The facility will position Oregon — and Port Westward — as a leader in advanced biofuels production.” Hayes said more than 800 jobs will be created during the construction phase and more than 200 full time, highly paid and skilled jobs will be created once the facility is operating. NEXT had been navigating through the permitting process, working toward 2022, for the construction of the facility that was targeted to open in 2024. NEXT Renewable Fuels, Inc. Executive Chairman Chris Efrid said the project is on track and moving forward after some delays
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In April, Columbia County artist Jeremy Furnish announced plans for a new mural in Clatskanie, inspired by the literary works of Raymond Carver — a great American short story writer and poet who was born in Clatskanie in 1938. The design is now complete, and Furnish said the mural will be finished by the end of the summer. The mural is set to cover the south facing wall of Clatskanie’s former hospital, located on North Nehalem St. in downtown Clatskanie, visible from Highway 30. In 2020, Furnish issued a submission contest for local artists when he painted his first mural in Clatskanie, “Homeward Bound,” on the Clatskanie Hazen Hardware Building, featuring a group of Chinook salmon swimming upstream to spawn. The submission winner, Mark Kenny, is a Seaside resident, and said his design represents “community and the purpose of continuing on one’s offspring.” This year, Furnish issued a “Call to Artists / Request for Design Proposals,” asking student, emerging, and professional artists living in the Lower Columbia Region for his second mural—a design submissions inspired by the literary works of Carver. “Understanding that I’m not the only one who strives for creative freedom,” Furnish said, “I wanted to share opportunities with the creative folks of the community.” The deadline for the current submissions was May 16, and Furnish said a blind panel (the judges were not given the names or extraneous information about the artists who submitted designs) of five judges selected the submission winners. Seaside resident Dylan Eckland’s submission was selected as first place by the judges, Furnish said, and will
Courtesy photo
Mural submission winner Dylan Eckland based his concept on Raymond Carver’s naturalistic poetry and the natural setting of Clatskanie near Beaver Falls. This conceptual photo shows how the mural will look on the side of the building on Nehalem Street.
be the concept used for the mural. A tattoo artist who runs a private shop in Seaside, Eckland said mural art was a natural outflowing of his creative pursuits. “I grew up doing a lot of art in my free time, and I actually never went to college for art, just my normal high school art classes,” Eckland explained. While in college, Eckland continued his artistic interests on the side but later decided to go back to school to become a tattoo artist. “Personally, I’m thrilled with the level of community support, the efforts and quality of the submissions that we received, and the time and dedication of the jury to make the difficult decisions.” Eckland’s mural submission features a portrait of Raymond Carver alongside Beaver Falls and a quote from Carver’s poem Where Water Comes Together With Other Water: “I’ll take all the time I please this afternoon before leaving my place
alongside this river.” “I didn’t want to use anything too dark,” Eckland explained. “I wanted to use something that had nature in it, since we have a lot of nature out here, as we do in the northwest. [The quote] seemed very fitting, and the poem just kind of stood out to me.” As the first place winner, Eckland will receive a cash prize of $1,500, which he plans to use with his family to pay the mortgage on their home. The second and third places, Audrey Christo and Mark Kenny, will receive honorarium cash prizes of $300 and $200, respectively. “[Winning] means a lot, I do tattoos every day, but this is my first public art thing. I’ve never had any of my art slung across the side of the building where people are going to walk past it every day, so it means a lot,” Eckland said of his win.
Phone: 503-397-0116 Fax: 503-397-4093 chiefnews@countrymedia.net 1805 Columbia Blvd., St. Helens, OR 97051
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It’s a wrap: Legislature adjourns JEREMY C. RUARK jruark@countrymedia.net
The Oregon State Legislature adjourned its 2021 session at 5:37 p.m. Saturday, June 26. “Oregon has never had a session like this,” Senate President Peter Courtney (DSalem) said. “The state was on fire. People were out of work. Families were struggling. We were in the middle of a pandemic... but we came in and did the people’s work. We balanced our budget and made big investments in our communities. There were some bitter fights but in the end, we represented the people well.” House Speaker Tina Kotek pointed out that action was taken during the session against one House member. “We didn’t let partisan politics derail the session,” Kotek said. “In fact, House members came together in a 59-1 vote earlier this month to expel a member who had endangered Capitol staff when he intentionally allowed violent protesters into the building last December,” Kotek said. “Despite the
occasional tension or disagreement, legislators figured out how to work together to deliver for their communities and the state as a whole. We can all take pride in that.” Kotek said members began the 2021 session with clear goals: increase the state’s supply of affordable housing, support Oregonians experiencing homelessness, prevent evictions and foreclosures, and reduce housing disparities for communities of color. By the end of session, the Legislature approved a combined $765 million dollars for affordable housing and permanent supportive housing, down payment assistance, homeless services, tenant support, and more,” Kotek said. “While the work we’ve done has provided more stability for Oregonians, we’ll need to maintain a crisis mindset going forward as we continue to work to solve the state’s housing crisis.” Rep. Brad Witt, who was reprimanded by legislators during the session for inappropriate remarkers to a fellow legislator, said one of the key highlights of the 2021 session has been work
officials play an important role, especially in our smaller rural cities, because cities cannot always afford to hire a full-time trained and certified building official,” Witt said. “Some communities have relied on these contracted building officials for more than 40 years.” The legislation was sent to Gov. Brown for her signature. K-12 schools
Courtesy photo
The Oregon Legislature ended the 2021 regular session Saturday evening, June 26.
on legislation suggested by Clatskanie City Manager Greg Hinkelman. Witt said the legislation is a critical element relating to contracting services for inspection and enforcement of building codes. In his newsletter, Witt explained that SB 866 explicitly authorizing the use of third party contract building officials in jurisdictions currently using contracted building officials. “Third party contract
Lawmakers approved a state school fund budget that will invest a record $9.3 billion in K-12 schools this year, according to Courtney. Housing and homelessness Legislators continued efforts to increase Oregon’s supply of affordable housing and keep families affected by the pandemic in their homes, including a bill to encourage the development of affordable housing by expanding areas where affordable housing can be built and removing barriers faced by developers, cities, and nonprofits. The legislature also approved a $160 million
Deadly historic heat wave JEREMY C. RUARK jruark@countrymedia.net
The Oregon State Medical Examiners Office has received reports of 69 deaths that preliminary investigation suggests may be associated with the Pacific Northwest heatwave June 25 through June 28. The deaths include one in Columbia County. This number may change in either direction as more information or reports are received from each county medical examiner’s office. The state medical examiners office stresses that the numbers are preliminary numbers as some investigations are still in progress and final causes of death have not yet been determined. The following is the current breakdown by county of heat related deaths. • Multnomah – 51 • Marion – 9 • Washington – 5 • Clackamas – 2 • Columbia – 1 • Umatilla -1
Metro Creative Connection / The Chief
The State Medical Examiners Office reports at least 69 deaths related to the historic heat wave in Oregon, include one death in Columbia County.
The deaths follow three straight days of record breaking temperatures including Monday’s 116 degrees in Portland, 118 in The Dalles and 117 in
parts of Columbia County. The intense heat prompted local officials to establish community cooling centers in Rainier, St. Helens and Scappoose to offer air
conditioned locations with bottled water for those who needed relief. Several area businesses were forced to adjust operating hours, some even closed due to the intense heat impact on their air conditioning and other operating systems. National Weather Service Meteorologist Kranz said a strong upper level high pressure system in place over the Pacific Northwest, nighttime temperatures remaining warm and the hot air sinking and not rising caused the excessive heat. A layer of marine air flowing in from the Pacific Ocean brought cooling relief to the region with temperatures falling into the upper 90s by Tuesday. Kranz said more heat waves should be expected in the region through the summer and into early fall. “Chances are very low we’ll see temperatures this hot again,” he said. “I hope not. We won’t know for sure, so we’ll have to wait and see.”
SNAP offering power outage relief • Calling (800) 699-9075 • Email: SSP.StatewideWorkshare@dhsoha.state.or.us
STAFF REPORT chiefnews@countrymedia.net
Oregonians who lost food purchased with Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits due to power outages caused during the excessive heat wave are encouraged to apply for replacement benefits with the Oregon Department of Human Services (ODHS). SNAP households who lost or disposed of food that was unsafe to eat due to power outages can request SNAP replacement benefits. Replacement benefits also may be available to SNAP households
SNAP is a federal program that provides food assistance to approximately 1 million eligible, low-incomefamiliesandindividuals in Oregon, including many older adults and people with disabilities.
who lost food due to home damage. Replacement benefits must be requested within 10 calendar days of the food loss by:
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Once approved, replacement benefits are added to the households existing Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT) card. Resources to help meet basic needs • Find a food pantry: foodfinder.oregonfoodbank.org • Learn about government programs and community resources for older adults and people with disabilities: Aging and Disability Resource Connection of Oregon at 1-855-
673-2372 or www.adrcoforegon.org. • Dial 2-1-1, or text your zip code to 898-211, www.211info.org Oregonians in need can apply for benefits, including SNAP, child care, cash assistance and Medicaid. Learn more at benefits.oregon.gov. For local resources in your area, such as food or shelter, please call 2-1-1 or reach out to the state’s Aging and Disability Resource Connection (ADRC) at 1-855-OREADRC or 1-855-673-2372.
housing package for affordable housing in cities around Oregon and gave temporary relief to Oregonians struggling to make rent or mortgage payments due to the pandemic. Senate Bill 2009 allowed for an extension of the mortgage foreclosure moratorium until at least September 30, providing foreclosure relief to mortgage holders who do not have a federally backed mortgage. Senate Bill 278 protects tenants waiting on rental assistance from being evicted after the eviction moratorium expires on June 30 and increases relief provided to landlords through the Landlord Compensation Fund. The 2021-23 legislatively approved budget sent over $35 million toward shelters, temporary housing for survivors of domestic and sexual violence, and resources for Oregonians who are homeless or at risk of becoming homeless. Health care In addition to fully funding the Oregon Health
Plan, lawmakers approved measures to change how healthcare is delivered in the state, including passing a historic $450 million behavioral health package. Wildfire and water resources
The legislature approved a $500 million wildfire package to expand wildfire prevention and mitigation efforts, rebuild fire-affected communities, and provide relief to wildfire survivors who have lost everything. This year’s budget also included $460 million package to invest in water and sewer infrastructure. Gov. Kate Brown said the 2021 session marked a turning point for Oregon. “We are better positioned to address the key challenges facing Oregonians: the public health and economic impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic, wildfire recovery and preparedness, and taking steps to end systemic racism and address racial disparities in Oregon,” Brown said.
Car crashes
into post office Courtesy photo from Tiffany Haole
Rainier Police report the outside of the Rainier Post Office suffered this damage at about 5:44 p.m. Sunday, June 27, after a motorist was attempting to drive closer to the curb. The driver hit the gas pedal too hard, according to police, causing the vehicle to jump the curb and hit the building near the entryway. “Fortunately, no one was injured and no citations were issued,” Rainier Police Department Clerk Susan Sullivan said. The Chief reached out for comment from the United States Postal Service about the scale of damage done to the building and the cost of repairs. We had not received a response by press time.
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The first city mural, “Homeward Bound” on the Clatskanie Hazen Hardware Building, features a group of Chinook salmon swimming upstream to spawn.
MURAL
work, has lived in Clatskanie for nearly twelve years, he said, and he hopes to continue creating a new mural each year. “I came here initially to be at peace with my family, to live among the trees, with dirt under my feet,” Furnish said. “Here I can find inspiration in my surroundings every day. That feels like a gift.”
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The mural will be painted in a collective effort by local artists and volunteers from across the region, said Furnish. Furnish, also founder of the Clatskanie Artists Net-
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With the support of the city, Furnish is aiming to “inspire economic growth, or at least a level of sustainability for artists and business owners alike in Clatskanie,” through his murals. And though the project is in its infancy, Furnish said there is “a master plan” that will eventually include sculptural art in the heart of Clatskanie.
See the design proposal submission winners at clatskaniearts.org/mural-project. Mural design questions should be sent to clatskaniemuralproject@gmail.com. The Chief will check in from time to time to show you photos of the mural project and follow-up when it is completed.
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Oregon State University, and was a lifelong Beaver Believer, but graduated from U of O with a business degree. Bob met Barbara Grant in college and they married in 1964, and eventually moved to Newberg where they were beloved members of the community for more than 45 years. Bob honorably served his country in the Army National Guard of Oregon. He also worked for 40 years as a sales rep in the paper industry and was a Portland Football Officials Association referee for over 30 years. He enjoyed fishing and woodworking. Bob is survived by chil-
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dren, Scot (Kristi) and Duste; grandchildren, Elyzabeth, David, Grant, Avery and Layne; sister-in-law Margaret; and five nieces and nephews and their families. He was preceded in death by wife Barbara; parents, Robert Sr. and Yannina “Jerry;” and brother-in-law Erich. A service will be held at 11 a.m. on Sat., July 17, 2021 at the First United Methodist Church in Newberg.
Keith Wilson
Feb. 13, 1931 ~ June 23, 2021
On June 23, 2021, the man lovingly called Popper joined his beloved wife of 70 years in heaven. Keith Randolph Wilson was born on a Friday on the 13th of February in 1932 in Miles City, Montana to Dola and Blanche Wilson. Keith was never without a dog at his side and a horse to ride as a child. When he was thirteen, he decided that he was going to ride to the Calgary stampede four hundred miles away. He saddled up his horse, loaded his pack horse and off he went. His Dad made him check in with ranchers along the way. When he was in the sixth grade, he met the love of his life who later became his wife of seventy years, Geraldine (Bergerson) Wilson. They were married on a Friday on the 13th of August. Keith always said that Friday the 13th was the best day on the calendar. Keith loved his country. He joined the Navy in the Seabees division in 1948. Later he transitioned to the reserves and at the time of his retirement in 1984 he held the rank of Chief Petty Officer, UTC (SB). Keith worked for the family business in Miles City until 1959 when he moved his
family to Bozeman, Montana to study at Montana State University. Keith and Geri worked together as partners to raise their family, putting Keith through college and building a new home. The handprints of their four children are still on the well cover to this date. After graduation, Keith worked for the Boys Scouts of America. In 1967, Keith and Geri moved their family to Clatskanie, Oregon. Geri was tired of Montana winters and without telling Keith, sent his application for a teaching job in Oregon. Keith was the Industrial Arts teacher for Clatskanie High School for twentyfive years. He was the Boys Scout Troop leader for Troop 241 for nine years. He beamed with pride when both of his sons and grandson achieved Eagle rank. Keith loved geology and the adventure of rockhounding. He and Geri joined Southwest Washington Mineralogical Society in 1973. Rockhounding became part of the Wilson family adventures. To this date, family members are always looking downward for a pretty rock to polish. Keith taught himself how to design and
cast jewelry from the rocks he found. Through the years, he blessed his family and friends with his creations. Keith and Geri in retirement, made Ajo, Arizona their winter home where he organized a group of men to fix roofs and homes for the Seniors who lived there. All the gang asked for payment was really good cookies to eat as they worked. Popper (Keith) was a man who loved people and adventures. He explored the ruins of Machu Picchu, whitewater rafted down most of the rivers in Oregon, Washington and Idaho running his own raft. At the age of 62, he with his family whitewater rafted the Colorado river. Popper never met a stranger. The family farm would have a mix of family, friends, and new friends on any given weekend as family gatherings occurred. Popper taught us all to love, to live with integrity and embrace the moment with strength and grit. The world has lost a great man, father, teacher, leader and friend. Keith is survived by four children, Rose (Wilson) and Dwain Zimmerman of Mesa, Arizona, Patrick and Betsy Wilson of Redmond, Washington, Clarence and Carolyn Wilson of Longview, Washington, and Martie (Wilson) and John Moore of Chicago, Illinois. He was blessed with nine grandchildren, 21 (soon to be 22) great grandchildren, and two great-great grandchildren. A celebration of his life will be held at 1 p.m. on Sept. 3, 2021 at Faith Family Christian Center, in Longview, Washington. Please join us as we celebrate this amazing man called Popper.
Lisa D. Smith
Nov. 25, 1964 ~ March 30, 2021 Lisa Smith passed away on March 30, 2021 in Clatskanie, Oregon. A celebration of life will be held at 11 a.m. on Aug. 28, 2021 at Riverside Community Church, 305 W 3rd St., Rainier, Oregon.
Logan Reeves
March 19, 1978 ~ June 28, 2021 Logan Reeves passed away on June 28, 2021 in Westport, Oregon. Memorial information to be announced in a future edition of the Chief. Columbia County’s trusted local news source
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Friday, July 2, 2021
Clatskanie grows: Vegetables, other crops in extreme heat
CHIP BUBL Chief Guest Column
High temperatures are common in August but in June? In any case, these extreme temperatures test our watering skills. If you are seeding vegetables, it is a challenge to keep the soil surface evenly moist to support germination. Light surface mulches help, as do the use of soaker hoses or drip systems turned on frequently. Overhead irrigated seeds planted in un-mulched clay soils tended to have a hard time pushing through the soil crusts that form. Crusts develop from the physical impact of water droplets combined with sun baking clay in the soil. If you cover your seeds with potting mix instead of soil, it will generally help germination. Oddly, very high temperatures push some seeds into a prolonged dormancy. I had that experience some years
ago when I tried to seed a cover crop in hot (though not as hot as this) weather. Nothing germinated at all until the following year. In the vegetable garden, many crops are in crucial growth stages. All vegetables that produce bulbs, flowers, fruit, or seed as the edible part (i.e. beans, squash, tomatoes, peppers, corn, broccoli, onions etc.) experience their highest demand as that edible portion is maturing. Even and ample water is a must. Soil moisture evaporates through plant leaves (which is most of the water taken from the soil as the crop canopy matures) and directly from the soil. Normal evapotranspiration averages for vegetables in July/August are about 1.50 inches per week (or about .22”/day). But on very hot days the transpiration rates exceeds .30”/day or about 2.25 inches per week. The chart shows the water demand for winter squash (butternuts,
acorns, Hubbard, etc.) and summer squash (zucchini, patty pans, etc.). The difference between the rainfall received and the crop demand at any point in time is what you have to provide once most of the soil moisture reserves have been used. And basically, we got no significant rainfall in the last two weeks of June and generally almost nothing in July and August. We are entered into this important growth time of our crops with a water-year (October 2020–September 2021) rain deficit of about nine inches. This will also affect some plants we might not normally water like wellestablished fruit trees. There are a lot of crops that flower but don’t produce the desired vegetable if it is too hot. Beans are very sensitive to 92°+ weather and will often drop a lot of flowers until cooler weather returns. Tomatoes are a little more complicated. Some sail through this kind of weather. Other varieties are more like green beans with a drop-off
in fruit set. Squash and peppers are generally fine. All this assumes the plants are adequately watered. If not, all bets on fruit set are off. Lettuce turns bitter quickly in extreme heat (if it survives at all). The only benefit from this heat is that the slugs have
been driven into hiding. They look for cracks in the soil or anything they can wiggle under to keep them from drying out.
Clatskanie Grows
Other garden topics Garlic should be ready to harvest. Dig and then dry the bulbs with the tops on in a shady, well-ventilated place. They should be ready for storage after a month. They can be eaten anytime. The heat wave this week hastened berry maturity and at the same time sunburned some raspberries, blackberries, and even blueberries. The heat also affected developing apples and possibly damaged the trunks of some young trees. The worst damage is typically on
the southwest side of a tree or berry bush since it gets direct sun at the hottest time of the day. Maintain a good watering schedule on all new woody landscape and garden plants throughout the rest of this summer. You can plant cabbage family, leeks, beans, and other crops for late summer/ fall eating once this extreme heat subsides. Corn planting is still possible though I would use the shortest season corn and hope for an long summer and fall. Poor carrot and parsnip crops (stunted, misshapen, etc.) are usually due to one of the following: failure to thin such that no carrot plant gets enough light to make a good root; rocky or heavy clay soils which cause root distortion and forking; inconsistent watering; and too much nitrogen. Some people have reported hearing cicadas (after all the publicity about them back east) but didn’t know we had them. We do, upwards of 30 species in the PNW, but they aren’t the mass brood emerging types. Male and female cicadas make a very sustained, highpitched sounds to find each other.
397-3462 or at chip.bubl@ oregonstate.edu.
Have questions?
Oregon State University Extension Service – Columbia County Address: 505 N. Columbia River Highway St. Helens, OR 97051 Phone: 503-397-3462 Email: chip.bubl@oregonstate.edu
If you have questions on any of these topics or other home garden and/ or farm questions, please contact Chip Bubl, Oregon State University Extension office in St. Helens at 503-
Free newsletter The Oregon State University Extension office in Columbia County publishes a monthly newsletter on gardening and farming topics (called County Living) written/edited by yours truly. All you need to do is ask for it and it will be mailed or emailed to you. Call 503397-3462 to be put on the list. Alternatively, you can find it on the web at extension.oregonstate.edu/columbia and click on newsletters. Many Extension publications available online Are you putting up salsa, saving seeds, or thinking about planting grapes? OSU has a large number of its publications available for free download. Just go to catalog.extension.oregonstate.edu. Click on publications and start exploring. The Extension Service offers its programs and materials equally to all people. Contact information for the Extension office
‘Severe’ blood shortage
Courtesy photo from the American Red Cross
Each Red Cross blood drive and donation center follows the highest standards of safety and infection control, and additional precautions to ensure the health of all those in attendance, according to the Red Cross. STAFF REPORT chiefnews@countrymedia.net
The American Red Cross continues to experience a severe blood shortage that is negatively affecting blood product availability across the country. Currently, the Red Cross is working around the clock to provide blood products to hospitals responding to an unusually high number of traumas and emergency room visits, as well as overdoses and resulting transplants. As a result of the blood shortage, some hospitals are being forced to slow the pace of elective surgeries until the blood supply stabilizes, delaying crucial patient care. Blood and platelet donors are needed now to help ensure hospital shelves are stocked with blood products
over the Fourth of July holiday and beyond. Donors of all blood types – especially type O – are urged to make an appointment to give now and help ensure hospital shelves are stocked with blood products over the Fourth of July holiday and beyond. A blood drive will be held from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. July 14 at the Columbia County Sheriff’s Office at 901 Port Avenue in St. Helens. While summer is traditionally a time when blood donations decline, this year is particularly challenging as many Americans receive their vaccinations and resume summer activities after more than a year of limited interactions and travel, leading to lower donor turnout. The need for blood doesn’t take a holiday break
− patients still depend on lifesaving transfusions, according to Red Cross administrators. As a thank you, all those who come to give July 1-6 will receive a Red Cross embroidered hat by mail, while supplies last, and, donors who come to give July 7-31 will receive a $10 Amazon. com Gift Card by email, plus a chance to win gas for a year, a $5,000 value. Donors are needed now to prevent further delays to patient care. Schedule an appointment to give blood now by using the Red Cross Blood Donor App, visiting RedCrossBlood. org, calling 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767) or enabling the Blood Donor Skill on any Alexa Echo device.
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Friday, July 2, 2021
A5
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CC21-1488
NOTICE OF COUNCIL MEETING The Clatskanie City Council will meet on Wednesday, July 7th, 2021 at 7:00 p.m. in the ballroom of the Clatskanie Cultural Center, 75 South Nehalem St. (2nd floor). Agenda items include, but are not
limited to: approval of the minutes of the June 2nd and June 16th 2021 meetings, a public hearing on the results of bids for the Belair paving project, a resolution establishing new sewer rates, a resolution au-
thorizing a fund transfer for a pool renovation change order and a resolution to adopt the Hazard Mitigation Plan. An updated agenda will be available at City Hall by Friday July 3rd, 2021.
CC21-1485
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN Notice is hereby given that the undersigned intends to sell the personal property described below to enforce a lien imposed on said property under the Oregon Self-Service Storage Facilities Act: a sizable number of items, some in good condition, filling a 5x8 foot storage room. The
undersigned will sell at public sale by competitive bidding on the 30th day of July 2021 at 11:00 a.m. on the premises where said property has been stored and that is located at 80 N.W. 4th Str. Clatskanie, Oregon in Columbia County. The unit number is 86 leased by Kim Furfaro.
Purchases must be paid for in cash only at the time of sale. All items must be sold as is, where is and must be removed on the day of the sale. Sale is subject to cancellation in the event of settlement between owner and obligated party. Dated this day of June 23, 2021. John Lillich.
CC21-1470
TS No. OR05000043-20-1 APN 24852 TO No 200506562-OR-MSO TRUSTEE’S NOTICE OF SALE Reference is made to that certain Trust Deed made by, BEVERLY ANN MITCHELL AND SYKES MITCHELL, WIFE AND HUSBAND as Grantor to FIDELITY NATIONAL TITLE INS CO as Trustee, in favor of WELLS FARGO BANK, N.A. as Beneficiary dated as of December 15, 2008 and recorded on December 19, 2008 as Instrument No. 2008-011283 and the beneficial interest was assigned to Nationstar Mortgage LLC DBA Champion Mortgage Company and recorded September 20, 2017 as Instrument Number 2017-008688 of official records in the Office of the Recorder of Columbia County, Oregon to-wit: APN: 24852 PARCEL 1:BEGINNING AT A POINT THAT IS NORTH 86° 39` WEST 1563.8 FEET FROM THE EAST QUARTER CORNER OF SECTION 10,TOWNSHIP 5 NORTH, RANGE 4 WEST,WILLAMETTE MERIDIAN, COLUMBIA COUNTY,OREGON, SAID POINT BEING ON THE EAST AND WEST CENTERLINE OF SAID SECTION 10;THENCE NORTH 86° 39` WEST, ALONG THE EAST AND WEST CENTERLINE OF SAID SECTION 10,115 FEET;THENCE SOUTH
3° 21` WEST 325 FEET, MORE OR LESS, TO THE CENTER OF THE NEHALEM RIVER;THENCE EASTERLY, ALONG THE CENTER OF SAID NEHALEM RIVER TO A POINT THAT IS SOUTH 3° 21` WEST FROM THE POINT OF BEGINNING;THENCE NORTH 3° 21`EAST TO THE POINT OF BEGINNING.PARCEL 2:BEGINNING AT A POINT THAT IS NORTH 86° 39` WEST 1,563.8 FEET FROM THE EAST QUARTER CORNER OF SECTION 10,TOWNSHIP 5 NORTH,RANGE 4 WEST,WILLAMETTE MERIDIAN,COLUMBIA COUNTY,OREGON,SAID POINT BEING ON THE EAST AND WEST CENTERLINE OF SAID SECTION 10;THENCE NORTH 86° 39` WEST, ALONG THE EAST AND WEST CENTERLINE OF SAID SECTION 10,115 FEET TO THE TRUE POINT OF BEGINNING;THENCE NORTH 86° 39` WEST, ALONG THE EAST AND WEST CENTERLINE OF SAID SECTION 10, 115 FEET; THENCE SOUTH 3° 21` WEST 325 FEET, MORE OR LESS, TO THE CENTER OF THE NEHALEM RIVER; THENCE EASTERLY, ALONG THE
CENTER OF SAID CENTER OF SAID NEHALEM RIVER TO A POINT THAT IS SOUTH 3° 21` WEST FROM THE TRUE POINT OF BEGINNING;THENCE NORTH 3° 21` EAST TO THE TRUE POINT OF BEGINNING.PARCEL 3:A NON-EXCLUSIVE EASEMENT FOR INGRESS AND EGRESS,DESCRIBED AS FOLLOWS:BEGINNING AT A POINT THAT IS NORTH 86° 39` WEST 1333.8 FEET FROM THE EAST QUARTER CORNER OF SECTION 10, TOWNSHIP 5 NORTH, RANGE 4 WEST,WILLAMETTE MERIDIAN, COLUMBIA COUNTY, OREGON, SAID POINT BEING ON THE EAST AND WEST CENTERLINE OF SAID SECTION 10;THENCE NORTH 86° 39` WEST 230 FEET;THENCE SOUTH 3° 21` WEST 15 FEET;THENCE SOUTH 86° 39` EAST 230 FEET;THENCE NORTH 3° 21` EAST 15 FEET TO THE POINT OF BEGINNING. Commonly known as: 64505 NEHALEM HWY N, VERNONIA, OR 97064 Both the Beneficiary, Nationstar Mortgage LLC DBA Champion Mortgage Company, and the Trustee, Nathan F. Smith, Esq., OSB #120112,
have elected to sell the said real property to satisfy the obligations secured by said Trust Deed and notice has been recorded pursuant to Section 86.735(3) of Oregon Revised Statutes. The default for which the foreclosure is made is the Grantor’s failure to pay: Failed to pay the principal balance which became all due and payable based upon the move-out by all mortgagors from the property, ceasing to use the property as the principal residence, pursuant to paragraph 7 (B))(I) under the Note, and pursuant to paragraph 9(B)(I) of the Deed of Trust. By this reason of said default the Beneficiary has declared all obligations secured by said Trust Deed immediately due and payable, said sums being the following, to-wit: The sum of $282,699.18 together with interest thereon from April 19, 2020 until paid; and all Trustee’s fees, foreclosure costs and any sums advanced by the Beneficiary pursuant to the terms of said Trust Deed. Wherefore, notice is hereby given that, the undersigned Trustee will on October 4, 2021 at the hour of 12:00 PM, Standard of Time, as established by Section 187.110, Oregon Revised Statues, at the west entrance to the Columbia County
Courthouse, 230 Strand St., Saint Helens, OR 97051 County of Columbia, sell at public auction to the highest bidder for cash the interest in the said described real property which the Grantor had or had power to convey at the time of the execution by him of the said Trust Deed, together with any interest which the Grantor or his successors in interest acquired after the execution of said Trust Deed, to satisfy the foregoing obligations thereby secured and the costs and expenses of sale, including a reasonable charge by the Trustee. Notice is further given that any person named in Section 86.753 of Oregon Revised Statutes has the right to have the foreclosure proceeding dismissed and the Trust Deed reinstated by payment to the Beneficiary of the entire amount then due (other than such portion of said principal as would not then be due had no default occurred), together with the costs, Trustee’s or attorney’s fees and curing any other default complained of in the Notice of Default by tendering the performance required under the obligation or Trust Deed, at any time prior to five days before the date last set for sale. Without limiting the Trustee’s disclaimer of
representations or warranties, Oregon law requires the Trustee to state in this notice that some residential property sold at a Trustee’s sale may have been used in manufacturing methamphetamines, the chemical components of which are known to be toxic. Prospective purchasers of residential property should be aware of this potential danger before deciding to place a bid for this property at the Trustee’s sale. In construing this notice, the masculine gender includes the feminine and the neuter, the singular includes plural, the word “Grantor” includes any successor in interest to the Grantor as well as any other persons owing an obligation, the performance of which is secured by said Trust Deed, the words “Trustee” and “Beneficiary” includes their respective successors in interest, if any. Dated: May 20, 2021 By: Nathan F. Smith, Esq., OSB #120112 Successor Trustee Malcolm & Cisneros, A Law Corporation Attention: Nathan F. Smith, Esq., OSB #120112 c/o TRUSTEE CORPS 17100 Gillette Ave, Irvine, CA 92614 949-252-8300 Order Number 74888, Pub Dates: 6/11/2021, 6/18/2021, 6/25/2021, 7/2/2021, THE CLATSKANIE CHIEF
The Public Notice deadline is Wednesdays by noon. Late submissions are not guaranteed to make it into the paper.
REOPEN From Page A1
and other restrictions on their operations, employees were put out of work and most gatherings were prohibited. We’re pleased that our businesses will be able to serve their customers and that workers can return to their jobs. The vitality of our small businesses is critical to the city. We stood with them during this difficult time and applaud their patience in adhering to the state’s public health guidelines.” Jorgensen said the popular city celebration, Rainier Days is scheduled for July 9-11 and the city welcomes the opportunity to have residents and visitors to the community enjoy that annual event. Rainier, like other cities in the state declared a State of Emergency as the COVID-19 pandemic spread across Oregon in March 2020. Jorgensen said as of June 30, that declaration
remained in place. “The emergency declaration is certainly something that the council can look into at its July 12 meeting,” he said. “The agenda isn’t yet finalized, but will be early next week.” At the Rainier Grocery Outlet, owner James Day said the store will keep protective screens around cashier stations as a continued health an safety measure. “Customers and staff don’t have to wear masks or social distance,” Day said. Columbia County officials announced on the county’s Facebook page on Wednesday, that requirements for county employees and the public concerning wearing masks, social distancing, and limited capacity in county facilities are also lifted. “These lifted restrictions do not apply to specialized settings like healthcare, public transportation, correctional facilities and certain other congregate settings where enhanced COVID-19 precautions will remain necessary,”
the post reads. “All County departments with public-facing functions shall continue to implement procedures for setting and managing service by phone, online, or by appointment, when necessary. CC Rider and the Columbia County Jail shall continue to comply with all Federal and State guidance related to public transportation and congregate care facilities.” Governor thanks Oregonians Governor Brown said the reopening is a celebration of Oregon’s strength, resilience, and collaboration. “We celebrate brighter days ahead. And, today we celebrate that Oregon is 100% open for business,” Brown said during a speech at the at reopening celebration of Providence Park in Portland Wednesday afternoon. “I look forward to seeing Oregon’s restaurants and mainstreet businesses flourish as vibrant community cornerstones.,” Brown said. “We
are all excited to celebrate the July 4th holiday weekend with family and friends. And I smile at the thought of our children going back to the classroom, five days a week this fall.” Brown said the reopening of Oregon’s economy is a historic moment for the state. However, while we enter a new chapter today, our work is far from over,” she said. “We will be relentless in our efforts to finish the job, closing our equity gaps, and reaching every Oregonian with information and vaccines. That means we need to continue this education effort, person to person, neighbor to neighbor. We remain fiercely committed in our efforts to build a more just and equitable, and a safer and stronger Oregon.” OSHA lifts restrictions The Oregon Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has removed the facial covering and physical distancing requirements of its COVID-19 rule for
all workplaces, with certain exceptions, including health care, public transit, and airports. The move by the division is part of a formal process involving initial amendments to the existing requirements of its COVID-19 rule for all workplaces. It also encompasses similar changes that will be made to another COVID-19 rule addressing housing provided by employers, including as part of agricultural operations. The lifting of the facial covering and distancing requirements are consistent with previous public announcements about the reopening of Oregon, including by Gov. Kate Brown and the Oregon Health Authority. However, that does not mean that all of Oregon OSHA’s COVID-19 requirements are going away immediately, agency officials said. For the rule addressing all workplaces, examples of measures that will remain in place longer include optimization of ventilation, notification of a positive case in the
workplace, and proper steps to take if an employee must quarantine. While the facial covering and distancing provisions are removed from the rule addressing employer-provided housing, the rule’s measures - including placement of beds and air purifiers - remain in place. The changes implemented by Oregon OSHA do not preclude businesses from choosing to put their own facial covering and distancing measures in place, as long as they do so according to public health guidelines and keeping in mind accommodations for people with disabilities. Oregon OSHA extended its requirements for all workplaces, which took effect May 4, to maintain riskreducing safety measures for workers against the coronavirus. The requirements were developed – and, in several cases, adjusted – based on extensive public input, comments, and technical and stakeholder review.
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A6
Friday, July 2, 2021
All League Teams announced Kami Harrison-Clatskanie Jamie Knox-Rainier Delaney DortenlandyRainer Kendall Crape-Rainer Hailey Weaver-Taft Claire Tolan-Taft Madison Diehl-Willamina Amaryssa Mooney-Willamina Amelia Mooney-Willamina
STAFF REPORT chiefnews@countrymedia.net
Local high school softball and baseball athletes are honored in the 2021 Coastal Range All League Teams. The following are the 2021 All League High School Softball and Baseball Teams.
Honorable mentions
Coastal Range League Softball Team 2021 League Season Co-Champions – Clatskanie State Champions – Clatskanie Most Valuable Player – Olivia Sprague-Clatskanie Pitcher of the Year – Kyla Cook-Rainier Coach of the Year – Kevin Sprague-Clatskanie Sportsmanship – Warrenton First team Shelby Blodgett-Clatskanie Alexis Smith-Clatskanie
NEXT
From Page A1
related to the COVID-19 and other management changes for the project. “We have our permits in with the major state and federal agencies,” he said. “We are in the final stages of the site plan and area plan to support the actual facility development. We have also completed the logistical study for the feedstock receipt and shipment of the final product (renewable diesel).” Efrid said through the process the development has faced issues. “Our investment now is likely to be $2 billion,” he said. “So far, most issues have not been ‘challenges’ but more that we are learning and listening to different perspectives from community members and leaders who bring experience from other projects or provide valued input on how our project may impact issues that are important locally, such as transportation.” Efrid said NEXT’s approach is to listen and work together to identify
Cloee McLeod-Clatskanie Paige Taylor-Clatskanie Liz Coulter-Taft Katrina Graham-Willamina 2021 Coastal Range All League Baseball First team Courtesy photo from Sarah Blodgett
The Clatskanie Middle/High School Softball Team with their State Championship trophy and in the background, the scoreboard shows the final game results. Clatskanie 9, Rainier 1.
Olivia Sprague-Clatskanie Kylie Thomas-Clatskanie Kyla Cook-Rainier Reese Schimmel-Rainier Alexis Crape-Rainier
Lacey Makinson-Rainier Nat Gates-Taft Addie Gates-Taft Avyree Miethe-Warrenton Laney DeLoe-Willamina
common solutions that help address any concerns and to maximize the benefit for the people of Columbia County. “We are fortunate to have strong partners at the Port and throughout the county who not only recognize the job creation and economic opportunity, but who also recognize how significant this project is to advancing clean fuel and putting Columbia County on the map as a leader in the production of renewable diesel for the entire West Coast,” he said. Efrid acknowledged that the project development, construction and logistical details are currently front of mind for the people who live in the region. “I feel confident we can move this project forward in a way that is aligned with the values of Columbia County and provide longterm, responsible economic development opportunities for the people who live and work here.” he said. “I am looking forward to focusing the next phase of conversation to the opportunity renewable diesel provides as a full drop-in replacement to current fossil-fuel based diesel.”
According to Efrid, renewable diesel is in high demand and will become in even higher demand and “Port Westward is a perfect location that will allow for us to be a national leader in production and distribution to help reduce emissions up and down the entire West Coast,” he said. NEXT plans to continue its public outreach, holding additional opportunities for public engagement and input.
•
For more information, visit www.nextrenewables. com, or email questions to info@nextrenewables.com or natasha@NEXTrenewables.com. Follow developments here online and in the Friday print editions of The Chief. NEXT Open Houses 6-8 p.m. July 8 Clatskanie Cultural Center 75 S. Nehalem St. Clatskanie 5:30-7:30 July 14 The Roof 31 Cowlitz St. St. Helens 503-397-2888
Second team Kaity Sizemore-Clatskanie Kalani Ausmus-Clatskanie Megan McClure-Clatskanie
Braden Marcum-Rainier Duane Falls-Warrenton Dylon Atwood-Warrenton Korbin Howell-Rainier Austin Stout-Rainier Kenney Tripp-Rainier Fco Ramos-Taft Ethan Caldwell-Warrenton
Darius Smith-Taft Topher Mcdonnell-Clatskanie Jake Breeden-Rainier Josh Earls-Warrenton Second team Hordie Bodden-BoddenWarrenton Dominik Bryant-Willamina Logan Chapman-Rainier Barron Delameter-Taft Nic George-Rainier Kaden Hindman-Taft Dawson Little-Warrenton Bobby McEwen-Willamina Kyle Souther-Rainier Nathan Streibeck-Warrenton Mike Ulness-Warrenton Jordyn Ward-Clatskanie Honorable mentions Ayden Boursaw-Clatskanie Josh Ellis-Rainier Corey Greenlaw-Willamina Ryan Hoagland-Warrenton Gavin Koceja-Taft Isaiah Top-Clatskanie Drue Tuck-Willamina
Gasoline prices take sharp rise JEREMY C. RUARK jruark@countrymedia.net
Prices at the pumps are on the rise with two significant increases over the past week in Columbia County, inching up by about 15 cents a gallon. In St. Helens, prices were as high as $3.67 a gallon for unleaded regular and three to five cents higher in outlying areas, such as Rainier and Clatskanie, as of Thursday morning, July 1. Gas prices are at their highest level of the year and still climbing leading up to the Independence Day holiday weekend, according to the latest American Automobile Associate price survey. Road trippers will pay the highest pump prices for the holiday in seven years. For the week, the national average for regular gains four cents to $3.11 a gallon. The Oregon average shoots up a dime to $3.59. While it is typical to see gas prices rise ahead of a holiday, especially during the peak summer driving season, pump price increases as of late have been noticeable, the AAA reports. The
national average has climbed seven cents and the Oregon average 16 cents in the last month. The rising pump prices are the result of three factors: confidence in worldwide vaccination rollout, global oil demand spikes, and the easing of travel restrictions leading to optimism for leisure travel. “Drivers can expect little relief at the pumps following the 4th of July holiday.” AAA Oregon/Idaho Public Affairs Director Marie Dodds said. “With crude oil prices likely to continue climbing, gas prices are most likely to see increases through the end of summer.” Demand for gasoline in the U.S. continues to trend higher while stocks are declining. California is the most expensive state for the 23rd week in a row with Hawaii, Washington, Nevada, and Oregon round out the top five. Alaska is seventh. Arizona is 18th. Oregon is fifth for the 17th week in a row. All seven states in the West Coast region are among the 26 states in the country, along with D.C., that have
averages above $3 a gallon. States in the West Coast region are seeing relatively large increases in pump prices this week. Washington (+10 cents) and Oregon (+10 cents) have the largest weekly increases in the region. Arizona (+1 cent) has the smallest week-over-week increase. According to AAA, the travel volume for the 4th of July holiday is back up to pre-pandemic levels with more than 47.7 million including 597,000 Oregonians taking a trip. This will be the second-highest Independence Day travel volume on record, trailing only 2019. More than 91% of Independence Day travelers will drive to their destinations as road trips continue to dominate this summer. In all, 43.6 million Americans will go by car including 512,000 Oregonians, the highest on record for the holiday. On June 27, the Oregon Office of State Fire Marshal suspended regulations that prohibit the self-serve of gasoline at retail gasoline service stations until Tuesday evening, June 29, due to the excessive heat wave.
•C rossword P uzzle • • STATEPOINT CROSSWORD THEME: THE 4TH OF JULY ACROSS
1. Steps to the river, in India 5. Hot springs resort 8. Meal in a shell 12. Driver’s misbehavior? 13. *Grilling technique 14. Medal of Honor descriptor 15. Cracked open 16. What Knave of Hearts stole from Queen of Hearts, sing. 17. Raise one’s rank 18. *July 4th pyrotechnic display 20. Hubble Space Telescope operator, acr. 21. Chip dip 22. i topper 23. *Main Street tradition on the 4th 26. Superlative of fumy 30. Ribonucleic acid 31. Store as fodder 34. Moonfish 35. Rose oil 37. Number cruncher 38. Fairytale garden dweller 39. Indian Lilac tree 40. Extinct type of zebra 42. Steampunk decoration 43. Did 2 + 2 (2 words) 45. Crocheted blanket 47. Swedish shag rug
48. Ancient port city in Israel 50. Smiley face 52. *First President to hold July 4th celebration at the White House 56. Snoop Dogg’s “Gin and ____” 57. Medicinal succulent 58. Hit the bottle 59. Earthenware pots 60. View from a highspeed train? 61. Observer 62. “Glengarry ____ Ross” 63. G, in solfa 64. “The Fountainhead” author
DOWN
1. Former tennis pro Steffi 2. One who’s made the pilgrimage to Mecca 3. Petri dish filler 4. Mother of Calcutta 5. Roebuck’s partner 6. a.k.a. anorak 7. A in B.A. 8. *”No ____ without representation” 9. Unfortunately, exclamation 10. *Drink to wash down burgers and hot dogs? 11. Table scrap
Solution to crossword in next week’s issue of The Chief. Columbia County’s trusted local news source
13. Steal, past participle 14. What haters spew? 19. Crane or heron 22. Expecting woman’s date 23. Life force in Sanskrit 24. Chipped in 25. What Motion Picture Association of America did 26. *Most popular July 4th decoration 27. Notable period 28. Polynesian island country 29. Feudal lord 32. Fish a.k.a. porgy 33. Beer acronym 36. *Lee Greenwood’s “Proud to Be an ____” 38. Blooper 40. Sine ____ non 41. Old-timer 44. Force units 46. Wedding tossable 48. Jiggly dessert 49. Run _____ of the law 50. Type of sea bird 51. Agitate 52. Kickboxing moves 53. Miso bean 54. U.S. ____ in golf or tennis 55. Egghead 56. Leisurely run
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Friday, July 2, 2021
A7
Happy Independence Day Celebrating Clatskanie Businesses JUNE 4TH TO JULY 4TH
The Clatskanie Chamber of Commerce and Heritage Days Committee invite you to join us in supporting local businesses with special deals from June 4th – July 4th!
Check out these special offers: • Bundy’s: Free Dessert (kids under 13 baby cone and adults a special sundae) with meal purchase on orders of four or more • Clatskanie Builders Supply: Featured special kits for purchase including Marshmallow Gun, Herb Garden Kit, and Industrial Shelf Kit • Clatskanie River Inn: Four Swim Passes for $10 • Clatskanie Tan: $10 off a Monthly Red Light or Tanning Package • Colvins: Family Taco Package 12 pork tacos for $20 or Adult Special 6 pork tacos and 2 margaritas for $20 • Conestoga: 4 Cheese Burgers and French Fry family meal for $25 • Flowers N Fluff: Free Bag of Chips with sandwich purchase • Jo’s Country Market: Fruit and Veggie Box for $30
, y a d h t r i B y p p a H
! a c i r e m A
Independence Day Holiday 2021 Events Rainier Rainier Days No Independence Day events are scheduled in Rainier, but Rainier Days will run July 9, 10 and 11. There will be a firework display for that event, as well as concerts, a parade, and a fair — complete with vendors and rides. For more information, visit rainierdaysinthepark.com
The Clatskanie Chamber of Commerce and Heritage Days Committee have teamed up to support local business in lieu of our normal Heritage Days celebration. Visit any participating business (just ask if the business participates when visiting) to get a Drawing Entry Card and your first signature on the card, then visit 7 more participating Clatskanie businesses for signatures. When all 8 boxes have been completed, turn your card in at Wauna Credit Union or Clatskanie PUD and start your venture all over again! No purchase necessary. Cards must be turned in by 5 pm on Tuesday, July 6th for the prize drawing.
Prizes:
Grand Prize Package: Traeger Grill from Clatskanie Rural Fire District along with Seasonings and Sauces from Clatskanie Parks and Recreation District Pool Party – Clatskanie Parks & Recreation District Emergency Prep Kit – Clatskanie PUD 1 Night Free Stay – Clatskanie River Inn Cora Bee’s Skincare Basket – Megan Evenson Gift Basket – Farmhouse Coffee
St. Helens Freedom Bells Ring Beginning at 1:30 p.m. in the Courthouse Plaza, several groups will hold a flag raising ceremony with a national anthem recitation and speakers. The annual bell ringing ceremony will take place at 2 p.m. There will be a band and Highway 30 Cruisers Car Club show from 2-3 p.m. For more information, visit discovercolumbia.com or call 503-397-6056.
$50 Gift Card – Fultano’s Pizza Hair Cut & Product Package – Megan Hicks The Hair Place Pedicure Gift Package – Kendra Poor The Hair Place $100 Gift Card – Hidden Treasures Within Gift Basket – Johnson Feed Spa Basket – Mann Mortgage $25 Gift Card – Scotty’s Antiques and Thrift $15 Gift Card – Singing Dog Jewelry Basket of Summer Fun – Umpqua Bank Gift Basket – Wauna Credit Union
The City of St. Helens is hosting Hit Machine on the Wauna Credit Union Stage in Columbia View Park at 7 p.m. There will be food and other vendors set up on Strand Street. A fireworks show will take place at approximately 10 p.m. from Sand Island. The St. Helens waterfront property will be open for ticketed tailgating. For more information, visit discovercolumbiacounty.com or email tina@e2cproductions.com
The more cards you complete and turn in, the better your chances are to win these graciously donated prizes from our local businesses!
KUBOTA STANDARD L SERIES #1 SELLING COMPACT TRACTOR BRAND FOR OVER A DECADE.*
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watkinstractor.com
Located on Rock Quarry Way. off of Hwy. 30 just North of Tide Cr. Rd. 503-397-5180•customerservicetca@gmail.com
From general property chores to serious landscaping and food plot management, Kubota Standard L Series compact tractors are a must-have! Value-packed with powerful engineering and comfort-enhancing design, it’s perfect for property owners.
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4th 100 Port Ave St. Helens, OR 97051 503-397-1012
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*EDA Data 2008-2018 YTD, under 40 HP tractors financed. Optional equipment may be shown.
Have great July 4th from your friends at Plymouth Pub
© Kubota Tractor Corporation, 2018
of July
www.clatskaniepud.com 503 728-2163 • 495 E. Columbia River Hwy.
298 S. 1st Street St. Helens, Oregon • 503-396-5108
ST. HELENS LIQUOR STORE 420 Columbia Blvd. • 503.397.1733
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A8
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Friday, July 2, 2021
Local fire agencies urge caution with fireworks
Courtesy photo
Fire agencies caution that wildfires will move fast and can force people from entire communities. STAFF REPORT chiefnews@countrymedia.net
Even though the historic record breaking temperatures are cooling, fire agencies across Columbia County continue to stress current hot and dry conditions have significantly heightened the wildfire danger. Columbia River Fire & Rescue (CRFR) has issued a caution advisory about the use of fireworks. “If you plan to use fireworks during the approaching holiday, please make sure you are aware of the areas affected by local restrictions,” the advisory states. “Please keep in mind that although you may not be in a restricted area, it does not mean that the danger of using fireworks or having open flames does not exist.” The Oregon Department of Forestry has already banned all fireworks outside of city limits for this area. The CRFR’s advisory also states that officials may
seize illegal fireworks and charge offenders with a class B misdemeanor, which could result in a fine of up to $2,500 per violation and a civil penalty of up to $500. Those who misuse fireworks or allow fireworks to cause damage are liable and may be required to pay fire suppression costs or other damage. Parents are also liable for fireworks damage caused by their children. The Humane Society of the United States advises owners to keep their pets away from fireworks, ask a vet for assistance if their pets are scared by fireworks, protect pets from heatstroke and get them a collar and identification tag. Even indoor pets should have tags in case they try to escape the noise of fireworks, according to the nonprofit. The Oregon State Fire Marshal’s Office has a website to use as a resource as well: www.oregon.gov/osp/ programs/sfm/Pages/Fireworks.aspx.
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