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ZOE GOTTLIEB chronicle2@countrymedia.net
ZOE GOTTLIEB chronicle2@countrymedia.net
swim season in spring instead of winter proved to be a challenging shift for both the St. Helens Swim Team and their competitors. “It was different,” Orr said. “We were able to swim against Hillsboro High School — They have an outdoor pool and we knew that most likely (would work) best (for) social distancing. Swimming backstroke when you’re looking into the sun is pretty hard for kids from Oregon.” Orr stated when it comes to facing challenges, her swimmers are incredibly resilient. The athletes, a witty, sarcastic, rambunctious group of high schoolers at their essence, have continued to put forth their best effort and exceed expectations, much to the astonishment of their coach. They are also becoming community leaders. In August, four St. Helens High School swimmers volunteered to
Oregonians can now mark off their calendars in preparation for the end of the statewide indoor mask mandate. Oregon will remove general mask requirements for indoor public places and schools no later than March 31, state health officials announced today. The decision to impose mask requirements will then be left up to businesses to decide. The Oregon Health Authority’s (OHA) announcement follows news of stabilizing Omicron cases and overall COVID-19 cases plummeting by 40% over the past week across the state. By late March, public health officials predict there will be 400 or fewer Oregonians hospitalized with COVID-19, a figure that hearkens back to the days before the rapid spread of the highly contagious Omicron variant. Additionally, state health data indicates COVID-19 hospitalizations have not topped the 1,178 high point of the Delta surge, despite projections that Omicron hospitalizations could double the number of patients hospitalized, according to Oregon Health and Science University (OHSU). State health officials say Oregon needs to keep mask requirements in place for now as COVID-19 hospitalizations crest and Oregon’s health care system strains to treat high numbers of severely ill patients. Current models show hospitalizations peaking at 1,169 and then declining throughout February and March as infections slow, according to the OHA. However, health officials cautioned that the state’s emergence from the Omicron surge depends on Oregonians sustaining effective prevention measures in the coming weeks. State Epidemiologist Dr. Dean Sidelinger said, “We’re likely to see as many cases on the way down from the Omicron peak as we saw on the way up. That means we need to keep taking steps to prevent more hospitalizations and deaths.” “The way Oregon handled Omicron is almost as good as you’re going to see,” Director of the OHSU Office of Advanced Analytics Dr. Peter Graven, Ph.D., said. “Oregon pushed out booster shots, Oregonians modified their behavior early, before Omicron fully arrived here, and we kept our masking rates relatively high compared with other states.” “Because of that, our surge was way lower than other places on a per-capita basis.” State health officials said they would consider lifting the general indoor mask requirement earlier than March 31, if hospitalizations decline to the levels projected by the end of March sooner than expected. Over the coming weeks, state health officials said they will work with the Oregon Department of Education (ODE) to ensure schools can continue operating safely and keep students in class once the school mask requirements are lifted. The end-of-march date will also give schools the time to pivot in their COVID-19 mitigation strategies, according to the OHA. The state’s indoor mask mandate was first instituted shortly after the COVID-19 outbreak in 2020, followed by a brief remittance period in June. Oregon Gov. Kate Brown’s Office reinstated the mandate on Aug. 27, 2021 which was scheduled to remain in place until Feb. 8, 2022. In the meantime, health experts strongly recommend high-risk individuals continue wearing masks in indoor public settings after mask requirements are lifted, including
After much deliberation, the City of St. Helens has agreed to fund a fireworks display this year. The council announced last year that the city would seek a nonprofit or another group to take over responsibility for managing the annual event and the city would provide a one-time funding incentive of approximately $20,000 for the effort. During the Wednesday, Feb. 2 regular work session meeting of the St. Helens City Council, Mayor Rick Scholl outlined his concerns over the cost of putting together fireworks, adding that in previous years, organizers have had to pull money out of their own pockets to run the event. According to Scholl, Scappoose resident and Spirit of Christmas Parade Organizer Angela Wayman had volunteered to take on the organization of this year’s fireworks. St. Helens Event Coordinator Tina Curry, also present at the meeting, offered her assistance. Wayman said she submitted a proposal on Jan. 18 and awaits a response from the city council. “I haven’t heard back anything yet, so any proposed plans can’t get started without the go-ahead from the city,” Wayman told The Chronicle. “I did, however, do extended research talking with locals old and new about this celebration, what works and doesn’t work, and what they would like to see going forward. I think it’s really important to have that kind of
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St. Helens residents, Shirley and Doug Walker share a kiss on their wedding day July 19, 1965. The couple share their story in The Chronicle’s special presentation, The Valentine Edition on A10.
Head First: Diving into Districts ZOE GOTTLIEB chronicle2@countrymedia.net
Jeremy C. Ruark / The Chronicle
Firefighters worked to put out the fire on South 9th Street in St. Helens.
Fire scare STAFF REPORT chroniclenews@countrymedia.net
Columbia River Fire & Rescue responded to a structure fire on South 9th Street in St. Helens early Tuesday morning, Feb. 8. As firefighters arrived, they spotted fire and smoke engulfing a camper parked in front of the house on the street. The fire spread to the adjacent house before it was contained. The camper was heavily damaged. Residents of nearby homes were evacuated. No injuries were reported. Details about the cause of the fire were unavailable at press time. Special Report .............. A3
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Performance nerves were nowhere to be found among the chattering swimmers at the Eisenschmidt Pool on Tuesday, Feb. 1 as if the upcoming Northwest Oregon Conference (NWOC) Districts meet was a distant afterthought, rather than a high-stakes competition just weeks away. Despite the easygoing nature of the St. Helens High School swimmers, Head Swim Coach Chelsie Orr said her team is laser-focused on success, both in the pool and in their academic lives. “They’re just really hard workers,” she said. “A lot of them have jobs in addition to school, after-school activities, and so they balance it all. They’re here working hard when they have a lot of other things on their plate as high school student(s), and they still give their 100%, even when they have a lot going on.” The St. Helens Swim Team had their final swim meet of the season at the pool on 1070 Eisenschmidt Lane in St. Helens Thursday, Feb. 3, their last chance to brush up on strokes and race times before entering Districts on Feb. 11 and 12. During Districts, the team will have the chance to compete with swimmers from across the region. Those who place first in the individual or relay competitions will automatically qualify for a spot in the state championships, where swimmers will go head-to-head with some of the top performers in the state. Orr said technical mastery is a strength her team brings to the competition, and she is currently concentrating on elevating their skills in freestyle, particularly freestyle sprints. When asked about the competition, Orr said she chooses not to focus too heavily on that.
Zoe Gottlieb / The Chronicle
A St. Helens High School swimmer prepares to enter the water.
“We don’t focus on any specific team,” Orr told The Chronicle. “Individually, we just kind of look at it as a whole and focus on being the best we can be, and that will give us the best chance of results.” Orr said her team has had to do quite a bit of bouncing back, after facing a string of cancellations last year. “Last year was quite an emotional roller coaster for our whole team,” Orr said, recounting the events of last season. “We started kind of a preseason workout, optional workouts in late fall, thinking that our season was going to start in January. After a few days of that, we were shut down again, and then our season was moved to May and June. It was a short season with no guarantee of his districts and with no possibility in the state.” “It was pretty devastating to my three senior boys who had been swimming since middle schoolers on the club team, and were extremely talented athletes,” Orr added. Additionally, kicking off the
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Leaking rail car triggers hazmat response
Zoe Gottlieb / The Chronicle
First responders from numerous agencies responded to the scene.
JEREMY C. RUARK jruark@countrymedia.net
A leaking railroad car triggered a hazardous material response from area fire districts, law enforcement, the Oregon Department of Transportation (ODOT), Oregon Department of Environmental Quality and the railroad company.
The incident unfolded shortly after 11 a.m. Thursday, Feb. 3, on the railroad tracks that are adjacent to Highway 30 just north of Scappoose. “The railroad crews noticed the leak and stopped the train at Slavens Road,” Scappoose Fire District Division Chief Miguel Bautista said. There were 108 rail cars
Zoe Gottlieb / The Chronicle
Zoe Gottlieb / The Chronicle
First responders monitored the leak after a bucket was placed beneath the rail car to catch the diesel fuel.
A Scappoose Fire District rig was used to close off a portion of Highway 30 at the leak site as a safety precaution.
on the train at the time of the incident. Bautista said the leak involved diesel fuel. “It is a flammable liquid, not as volatile as other fuels, but it still needs to be mitigated,” Bautista said. “As we arrived we assessed the spill and approximately 50 gallons had leaked out of the rail car.” As the regional hazardous materials team, Portland
are equipped with foam in case a fire erupted. Railroad crews were able to attach a waxed seal to stop the leak. The Highway 30 lane closed during the incident was reopened at approximately 1:30 p.m. “Lucky it didn’t turn into a bigger incident than it was,” Bautista said. The rail car will be sent to an undisclosed location
Fire & Rescue also responded to the scene of the leak. Oregon State Police and the ODOT closed about a 300-foot section of the outside westbound lane of Highway 30 at the leak site as a safety precaution. No nearby homes or businesses were evacuated during the incident. Bautista said the Scappoose Fire District engines
for repair. The cause of the rail car leak was still under investigation as of Tuesday afternoon. “This is something that we are prepared for and in fact this week we had actually gone over our annual hazardous materials response refresher,” Bautista said. “Everyone on our team is hazmat operation certified.”
Brown delivers final State of the State
Courtesy photo from Go. Kate Brown’s Office
“I stand here today at a pivotal moment for Oregon,” Gov. Kate Brown said during her final State of the State address. JEREMY C. RUARK jruark@countrymedia.net
During a passionate electronic address to the Oregon Legislature, Gov. Kate Brown said her legislative priorities for the short February session include helping working families by expanding workforce opportunities, affordable housing and child care. Brown will leave office at the end of the year due to the state’s term limits. She has served as governor since Feb. 2015. “I stand here today at a pivotal moment for Oregon,” Brown said. “Since I took office seven years ago, the world has fundamentally changed. Oregon has undoubtedly faced some of the most challenging times in our state’s history. However, even with all we’ve lost, we can see a path forward.” During her final State of the State address on Thursday, Feb. 3, Brown said the COVID-19 pandemic has
been devastating, but Oregon’s economy is strong. “In my last year as Governor, I view every day, every moment, as one more opportunity to focus on the big and bold work we still have to do for Oregon’s working families,” she said. Brown outlined her $200 million Future Ready Oregon platform as a three-part effort
dedicated to building a strong Oregon workforce by providing access to child care, “so that parents that work can go to work knowing that their kids are cared for,” she said. Brown said her plan will surge an immediate $92 million to programs currently working, such as Constructing Hope, which helps Oregonians get back on their feet with no-cost construction training and career advancement. Innovation will be boosted through flexible grants to community-based organizations and industries supporting technical and health care training, she said. Brown’s plan includes $100 million to expand child care access and an additional $400 million investment in affordable housing. According to Brown, in Oregon on any given night there more than 15,000 people who remain without a home and more than half of those people are living unsheltered. “In every tent you see – in a city park, under a highway overpass, along a river – is a person – a person who deserves a warm, safe, dry place to call home,” she said. Brown also said the state
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Tactical Ordnance Gun Show Columbia County Fairgrounds, Pavilion Bld. 58892 Saulser Rd, St. Helens, OR Saturday Feb. 12, 9am - 5pm Sunday, Feb. 13, 9am - 3pm Door Prizes, Raffle, Ammo, Brass, Reloading Equipment, Outdoor Supplies, Knives, Custom T-Shirts & Sweatshirts, Optics, Parts, Air Rifles, and of course... FIREARMS! We are a ‘Family Friendly Event’ welcoming all ages to our shows! Admission $8. Children 12 and under, free with Accompanying Adult.
Questions: Please Call Our Show Manager, Julie: 253-381-6686 Columbia County’s trusted local news source
must address the intersection of housing and health needs. “Expanding access to behavioral health services and substance use disorder prevention, treatment, and recovery is critical,” she said. While she is encouraged by the advancements Oregon has made to address climate change, more must be done the governor said. “Climate change is a hammer hitting us in the
head,” she said. “We must act now, decisively, to lower carbon emissions, transition to clean energy sources, and ensure a just transition for our historically-underserved communities.” Brown ended her speech with a passionate plea to those that will follow. “Find the opportunity, even in times of crisis. Especially, in times of crisis,” she said. “That’s how we
continue on this journey of transformational change for Oregon. That’s how we pursue justice. That’s how we heal divides and collaborate in ways that serve our state. That’s how we honor this beautiful place we call home.” Read the full State of the State address attached to this story at thechronicleonline. com.
Position: Dental Hygienist Position Summary:
In our practice, our hygienists are often the first place our patients receive compassionate and necessary healthcare. Our hygienists do not simply clean teeth; they are instrumental in achieving optimal health.
About Us and Who We Want to Join Our Team:
Healthy Smiles of Scappoose is a fixture of the local community. We have been serving patients for over 50 years throughout the area. Our patients know us, and we know them. We are recognized as the go-to family dental practice because of our loyal team and our commitment to health. Due to growth and expansion, as well as retirement of one of our long-term employees, we are looking for a hygienist to join our cohesive team. This is a full-time position (4 days/week, ~32 hours/week) working Monday through Thursday. We have long-term employees at our practice. The newest hire has been here for 3 years. Some of our employees have worked for us for decades. This demonstrates our commitment to our employees. This is not just “a job” but rather a livelihood. We are committed to employee appreciation, kindness, understanding, and a positive mindset. Our overriding goal is to first find a person who will enjoy being a member of our team, both as part of the organization as a whole and specifically with our incredible team of dental professionals. Characteristics that we are looking for include: • Team collaborative outlook, • Patient-centric and solutions/problem solving approach, • Fun-natured and a sense of humor, • Good communication skills (written and verbal), • Self-motivated attitude, • A desire to make a difference We are committed to each employee’s success. As such, we invest time, energy, and money in onboarding and training to ensure competency and confidence with the type and kind of patients we serve. This, combined with your qualifications, represents a winning formula for long-term professional success.
Additional Information:
Our practice offers a relaxed work environment, places a high value on work/life balance, and located in Scappoose. This position offers an excellent benefit package that includes: PTO, paid holidays, medical insurance, dental services for you and your immediate family, and a retirement plan. Starting salary will depend on experience and qualifications. If you believe this opportunity represents a fit for you, please send a cover letter and an up-to-date resume to: jessica@healthysmilesofscappoose.com
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Wednesday, February 9, 2022
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Special Report Homelessness in Columbia County
Eighty-fire organizations received funding awards, including 29 non-profits.
Metro Creative Connection
$500,000 in pandemic recovery grants Metro Creative Connection
City officials and law enforcement in Columbia County are seeking solutions to prevent the homeless issues that are challenging Portland, Salem and Eugene. ZOE GOTTLIEB chronicle2@countrymedia.net
Tents, sleeping bags, and shopping carts litter the sidewalks of downtown Portland, drawing attention to the homelessness crisis with everything but neon signs. In Columbia County, homelessness is much more of an understated problem. Police response While Columbia County Sheriff’s Office (CCSO) Sheriff Brian Pixley maintained that homeless encampments are not a new problem, he noted “somewhat of an increase” in homeless encampments cropping up around Columbia County. More encampments translate to more trespassing, illegal dumping, and mental health calls, Pixley said. In Pixley’s view, many of these encampments come in the form of abandoned boats along the Multnomah Channel and Columbia River, which CCSO Lt. Shaun McQuiddy reported as putting a significant strain on resources for the sheriff’s office back in November. “Each of these abandoned boats can cost between $10,000 and $30,000 to remove from the water and dispose of,” Pixley said. “We are typically able to recoup most of the cost of the removal through our partnership with the Oregon State Marine Board, but those funds run out quickly every year.” Dispersing the encampments presents a challenge due to resource constraints, according to Pixley, and he said the CCSO is only
charged with responding to criminal complaints. City perspective City of St. Helens Public Information Officer Crystal King emphasized the humanitarian, rather than punitive approach the city takes when it comes to the homeless. “The City of St. Helens and local law enforcement are primarily focused on safety and the welfare of the community in cases of individuals soliciting money,” she said. “We work with Community Action Team and other organizations to provide resources for those experiencing houselessness.” King said the city does not allow camping in rights of ways due to safety concerns but permits camping on Sand Island. The search for solutions As the homeless population in Columbia County grows, social service gaps are becoming more apparent. “The county, in general, does not have the resources to help the homeless population,” Pixley said. According to a report from ECONorthwest, an economic research firm commissioned by Oregon Community Foundation, Oregon has a disproportionate amount of homeless at a rate of 2.6%, in comparison with 1.3% of the U.S. population. While Portland has the highest concentration of homeless shelters at 11, such a shelter has yet to be established anywhere in Columbia County. “The only long-term solution would be to increase
services such as increased mental health, shelter and social services,” Pixley said. County and statewide Homelessness is a pervasive problem in Rainier, with transients sleeping out of boats and in RV cars, according to Rainier City Administrator Scott Jorgensen. “The citizens are obviously concerned,” he said. “We’ve gotten a number of comments about the highway homeless (and) tents on the Riverfront and city limits.” In a Dec. 6 city council session, city councilors updated the city’s Moorage Space Lease Agreement prohibiting overnight camping and sleeping on docked boats, after receiving numerous complaints from boat owners. “We’ve gotten complaints from some of them about people camping and sleeping on their boats,” Jorgensen said. Oregon’s housing insecurity challenges were exacerbated by the pandemic, media reports show. With statewide shutdowns and business restrictions resulting in lost jobs, the Oregon State Legislature announced the agency would be extending its moratorium on evictions for renters until June 30, 2021, which was originally set to expire Dec. 31 due to the state’s ongoing concerns. The pandemic also brought to light some of the unforeseen circumstances surrounding homelessness. “It’s not always a byproduct of them doing something wrong,” O’Connell said. “Sometimes things happen to people.”
STAFF REPORT chroniclenews@countrymedia.net
Columbia County has distributed $500,000 in grants to businesses and nonprofit organizations to assist with recovery and resilience in response to economic impacts from the COVID-19 pandemic. Columbia County, in partnership with the Columbia Economic Team (CET), has completed distribution of the grants, funded by the federal Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act, received by the county when it was identified as high-risk last summer. In September, the county chose to contract with CET again to administer the grant application and disbursement process. The commissioners directed CET and county staff to concentrate on making the program more accessible to non-profit organizations that were ineligible for most of the $1.9 million in grants CET distributed last year. As a direct result of modified program guidelines and application criteria, a
major marketing push, and targeted communications, nearly double the number of non-profit organizations applied for and received grants this year. Including these latest 2021 grants, nearly $2.5 million in small business and organizational grants has been administered by CET in 2020 and 2021, nearly $1.5 million from the Board of Commissioners. The CET processed a total of 102 applications, many of which were submitted by new applicants. In addition to helping eligible organizations successfully complete the application process, CET spent numerous hours working with the county’s Board, Counsel, and Finance Department to ensure that the available funds were distributed by the December 31 deadline. Of the 85 organizations that received funding awards: 56 are small businesses, 40 of which are womenowned companies, and 29 are non-profits. Non-profits received a total of $271,950 and $222,950 was distributed to small business recipients. The allocations were based on “human” resources: em-
ployee or volunteer counts for businesses and non-profits, respectively. CET Executive Director Paul Vogel reported completion of the grant process to the Columbia County Board of Commissioners, stating that the economic impacts of the pandemic have affected everyone. “Non-profits, however, have been hit with a triple- and maybe quadruple- whammy,” Vogel said. “The necessary lockdowns, restrictions, and distancing affected them too, donations and funding from financially struggling supporters took a hit, the economic impacts caused a dramatic increase in the need for their services, and in large part they weren’t eligible for most COVIDrelated grants.” Vogel also thanked the commissioners for their focus on the community’s non-profits. “These organizations, their services, and their place in our communities are vital,” Vogel said. “The Commissioners’ very intentional effort to assist them generated significant response and produced substantial results.”
Estate plans let you control your legacy When you hear “estate planning,” what do you think of? For many people, these words evoke images of immense wealth. But estate planning isn’t just for the wealthy – it’s for everyone. And it’s about more than preserving wealth – it’s about putting you in control of your own legacy. But how can you achieve this worthy goal? You can start by identifying your estate planning objectives. Here are some of the most common ones: • Controlling movement of assets to beneficiaries – During and after your lifetime, you will want to ensure your loved ones receive what you want them to have, and when. Through documents such as a will and a living trust, and techniques involving life insurance and using proper beneficiary designations, you – not the courts – will control the movement of your assets to the desired recipients. • Naming someone to make decisions for you if you become incapacitated – Naturally, you hope to stay in good physical and mental shape throughout your life and remain capable of making your own financial and
health care decisions. But the future is not ours to see, so, to protect your interests and those of your loved ones, you may want to consider creating arrangements such as a power of attorney, health care directive and a living will. In this way, you’ll still be able to control the key choices that may lie ahead. • Providing for minor children or dependents – If you have young children or other dependents, you’ll want to be sure they’ll be looked after if you aren’t around. In your estate plans, you can name a guardian for them. You can also use various estate planning tools, such as life insurance, beneficiary designations and the establishment of a trust to provide the necessary financial resources for your loved ones. • Supporting charitable organizations – Leaving something behind for your family is obviously an enormous part of your legacy – but it may also be important to you to provide support for charitable groups whose work you’ve admired. Of course, you can contribute to these organizations while you’re alive, but through strategies such as donor-advised funds and charitable remainder trusts, you can include these groups in your estate plans. • Managing taxes efficiently – If you’re likely to have a
large estate, your heirs may need to be concerned with income and estate taxes. To help control these taxes, you can take a number of steps, such as making outright gifts to your family during your lifetime, establishing an irrevocable life insurance trust, creating a family limited partnership and making charitable donations. All the estate-planning strategies and techniques mentioned here can be complex – so, to implement them, you’ll need to work with an estate planning attorney and a tax professional. You may also want to include your financial advisor, who can help ensure your estate planning objectives align with your important financial goals, such as living comfortably in retirement and providing for your children’s or grandchildren’s education. By identifying your objectives and working with your professional team, you can create an effective estate plan – and help yourself maintain control of your legacy. This article was written by Edward Jones for use by Topher Mood, your Edward Jones financial advisor at (503) 397-1125. Edward Jones, Member SIPC
Topher Mood, AAMS® - Financial Advisor 2504 Sykes Rd, St. Helens, OR 97051 • (503) 397-1125 www.edwardjones.com/topher-mood
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Viewpoints
Oregon Legislature facing tight timelines BRAD WITT Chronicle Guest Column
The 2022 Legislative Session is now underway. Representative Dan Rayfield was elected last week as the new Speaker of the Oregon House of Representatives. This leadership change begins a new era, as former Speaker Tina Kotek, the longest serving Speaker in state history, resigned from the Legislature to focus on her campaign for Governor. Speaker Rayfield has served in the House of Representatives since 2015 representing the Corvallis and Philomath communities as part of House District 15. During his time in the House, he has shown his abilities as a successful negotiator finding bipartisan solutions to complex issues. I was pleased to support him as Speaker of
the House and am looking forward to working with him as we move forward. Timelines Legislative sessions held in even-numbered years are constitutionally mandated to be limited to five weeks. Which means things will move quickly between now and the ending date of March 7, 2022. Each Representative and Senator was able to introduce a maximum of 2 bills this session, and each committee 3 bills. As of last week, there are over 250 proposed measures that will be under consideration. In order to be approved, a bill must go through the committee process and be approved by a floor vote in both the House and Senate chamber. Timelines are tight, and we will be very busy over the next five
weeks. This session I am serving on four committees: • House Committee on Agriculture, Land Use, and Water • House Committee on Behavioral Health • House Committee on Business and Labor • House Committee on Economic Recovery and Prosperity Each of these committees address a variety of topics. For example, the Agriculture, Land Use and Water Committee will begin by discussing bills relating to reporting on a framework for preventing, monitoring and responding to zoonotic (animal to human) diseases such as rabies, West Nile virus, Lyme disease and others. We will also be considering legislation establishing licensing for
persons using pesticides. The Behavioral Health Committee meeting agendas are packed and will include discussion of grants for behavioral health treatment providers, and modification of targeted financial incentives in the field of behavioral health. In addition, that committee will take up bills that specify the evaluation that must be conducted when a person is taken to a hospital or non-medical facility due to mental illness or in need of treatment. Another measure we are looking at would permit parents or guardians to admit a child for certain mental, emotional, behavioral health or substance use disorder for treatment. Business and Labor issues include requiring registration of businesses that collect, store or transfer personal data, amend worker compensation laws relating
to beneficiaries, and adding types of cancers to those already eligible for coverage for volunteer firefighters. The Committee on Economic Recovery and Prosperity is working on internet broadband expansion issues, system development charge reporting, marijuana and hemp licensing, and kratom safety. Hectic pace Oregon lawmakers will continue to work at a hectic pace in the weeks to come as we work through these and many other issues of importance to Oregonians. Due to the Covid-19 health protection restrictions, committee work is being done remotely, the Capitol building is open, but masks are required for entry and while you are in the building. Another change in Capitol
access procedures, is that everyone must pass through a metal detector when entering. Stay engaged If you have concerns or comments about proposed legislation, state issue or agency, please contact my office. It is my privilege to represent you in the House of the Representatives, and I look forward to hearing from you as we undertake this important work together. Rep. Brad Witt serves House District 31. He may be reached at: • Email: Rep.BradWitt@ oregonlegislature.gov • Telephone: 503-9861431 • 900 Court St. NE, H-382, Salem, OR, 97301 • Website: www.oregonlegislature.gov/witt
Community Calendar COVID-19 Testing The Columbia County Public Health Department is hosting a convenient testing site at the Columbia County Rider Transit Center located at 1155 Deer Island Road in St. Helens from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Monday through Thursday until March 31.The testing site uses shallow, selfcollected nasal PCR tests with no out-of-pocket cost to those being tested. Test results will be delivered in approximately 1-2 days from the time the sample is received at the lab.To schedule an appointment, go online to cur.tv/sthelens. Residents without internet access can call 888-702-0942 or public health at 503-397-7247 for assistance scheduling an appointment. Feb. 11 - 12 Quilt Show Bethany Lutheran Church’s 41st annual Quilt Show is from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Friday, and from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday at 34721 Church Road in
Warren. Call Chris Mollenhour at 503-888-7540 for more information. Feb. 15 CRPUD Board Meeting The monthly Columbia River PUD Board meeting begins at 6 p.m. in the CRPUD Community Room, 64001 Columbia River Highway in Deer Island. For more information, call 503-3971844. Library Board Meeting Cancelled The St. Helens Library Board has cancelled its regular meeting scheduled for Feb. 15. The next regular meeting is scheduled for 7:15 p.m. March 14, via Zoom. The agenda and Zoom details will be available on the City’s website prior to the meeting. Feb. 26 Volunteer Opportunity, Workshop Join the Scappoose Bay Wa-
tershed Council and the Lower Columbia Estuary Partnership from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. at Veterans Park to plant native trees and shrubs along the bank of South Scappoose Creek to create healthy habitat for salmon. A workshop to make willow and dogwood cuttings for restoration projects will also be conducted. To participate in the cutting workshop, please arrive at 8:45 a.m. at Veterans Park, located at 52590 Captain Roger Kucera Way in Scappoose. Current health guidelines at the time will be followed and may include face coverings and social distancing. New volunteers are required to fill out a waiver at the event. Children and teenagers under 18 will need a parent signature and supervision. Registration is required for this event. For more information, contact Emily Martin at emily@scappoosebay-wc.org or call 503-2985440.
Voices of the Community NEXT Energy predictions I predict if NEXT ENERGY is allowed to move
forward the following will be the result: 1. NEXT ENERGY will be Clatskanie’s Enron. 2. NEXT ENERGY chairman Christopher Efird
will be Clatskanie’s Bernie Madoff. Russell Spaulding Clatskanie
Don Coin Walrod Scholarship The Deer Island Grange is now accepting applications for the Don Coin Walrod Scholarship. The scholarship is created for a Columbia County high school senior. Applicants may attend a trade school, community college, or university of their choice, but must major in agriculture, education, forestry, or animal science. Applications are available from each of the Columbia County high school counselor offices and must be post marked by April 1, 2022. Mail applications to: Don Coin Walrod Scholarship, 64556 Columbia River Highway, Deer Island, Oregon 97054. Ongoing events Lower Columbia River Watershed Council The council meets at 7 p.m. every other second Tuesday. Meetings are currently held
electronically by Zoom. For more information, contact Council Coordinator Allan Whiting at E-mail: allan@ whitingenv.com, or call 503789-9240 Visit the council’s website for agenda postings and Zoom info: Events Page — LOWER COLUMBIA RIVER WATERSHED COUNCIL. Virtual Dementia Support Group Avamere at St. Helens hosts a Virtual Dementia Support Group meets from 2 to 3 p.m. the third Wednesday of each month. For more details, contact Jenny Hicks/Avamere at St. Helens at 503-366-8070. Resonate Recovery meetings Meet from 7 to 8 p.m. Wednesday - Sundays. This is a Bible based, Christ-centered spiritual recovery meeting for those struggling with addictions and compulsive behavior at 220 S.
1st St., St. Helens. Everyone is loved and welcomed. For more information, contact Bert at 503-475-3586, Debbie at 503-560-0521, Bill Bradley at 503-410-6273 or check the “Resonate” Facebook page. Columbian Toastmasters Promoting positive learning and leadership through public speaking. Anyone is welcome! Meeting virtually via Zoom from 12-1PM every Thursday. Zoom meeting: https://zoom. us/j/8222962563. Webpage: https://6421.toastmastersclubs.org. Soc Media: https:// www.facebook.com/ColumbianToastmasters. Phone: 503-369-0329 To list an event in the Community Calendar, email details with a phone number that may be published for anyone that might have questions, to chronicleclassifieds@countrymedia.net, or call 503-397-0116.
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Wednesday, February 9, 2022
A5
Obituaries Kelly Bledsoe
Carol Wilburn-Huston
Sept. 2, 1952 ~ Jan. 24, 2022
Kelly Bledsoe passed away on Jan. 24, 2022 after a long battle with cancer at the age of 69. Born in St. Helens, Oregon in 1952, he is preceded in death by his father Jim and brother Kurt. He is survived by his wife Sally; mother Janice; siblings, Mike, Jamie, Lisa and Axel; four sons; and four grandchildren.
He graduated from Rainier High School in 1970 and attended Portland State University. He crab fished in Alaska for six years, then worked for Familian NW, then Fergusson in Longview, Washington. Kelly was a loving husband and father, a casual hunter, fisherman, horseman, and old car guy. He loved to travel the world. His last trip combined old cars and travel in Australia. He was also a staunch supporter of wrestling. In addition to coaching Rainier Youth Wrestling for many years, he was a two-time state wrestling champion at RHS and a three-time NCAA qualifier in wrestling at PSU. A memorial service has not been scheduled. It will be held outdoors later this year. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Rainier Youth Wrestling or the Carcinoid Cancer Foundation in his honor.
Evelyn J. Lampman
July 24, 1943 ~ Dec. 2, 2021
Evelyn Lampman passed away Thurs., Dec 2. 2021 due to COVID complications.
She was born July 24, 1943 to Al and Mary Sparks. Evelyn has been a long-time resident of rural St. Helens. She was preceded in death by both her parents; two sisters; her brother; and her husband. Evelyn is survived by all eight of her children, Paul, Mary, Lynn, Debbie, Mike, Tammy, Larry, and James; and numerous grandchildren and great-grandchildren. A celebration of life will be held at the Oregon Trail Lanes in St. Helens from noon - 2 p.m. on Sat., March 5, 2022. All are welcome to attend. Come bowl a game in memory of Evie.
Shirley Jeanette Folwick March 12, 1939 ~ Jan. 25, 2022
Shirley Jeanette Folwick, 82, passed peacefully in her sleep at her home in St. Helens, Oregon on Jan. 25, 2022. Shirley was born to Shirley Belle Gack and Martin G. Gack on March 12, 1939, in Badoura, Minnesota. There, she grew up on a farm and loved riding her horse while yodeling for the cows to come home. She graduated from Akeley High School in 1957. She ventured to Oregon in 1962 after her marriage to Paul Folwick earlier that year. They settled in after finding property in Hillsboro, Oregon. As their young family grew,
she worked as a homemaker and tended to their large fruit/ vegetable farm. Her time was filled with house chores, taking care of her children, managing farm work, as well as perfecting her remarkable baking and cooking skills. Her limited free time was absorbed by her love of sewing. As her children became independent, she took on working for the Hillsboro School District in various schools from 1988 to 2000. She transitioned to employment at Fred Meyers, eventually retiring from there in 2000. Throughout her life, Shirley was dedicated to God and her Lutheran faith. She is survived by her four children, Marty, Kathy, Paul, and Shirley; several grandchildren; as well as great grandchildren. A funeral service will be held at 11 a.m. on Feb. 12, 2022 at Columbia Funeral Home in St. Helens, Oregon. There will be a graveside to follow. Please sign our online guestbook at www.columbiafh.com.
March 31, 1949 ~ Jan. 18, 2022
Carol Wilburn-Huston passed away peacefully at her home in Aloha on Tues., Jan. 18, 2022. Carol was born and grew up in St. Helens. She attended St. Helens High School, graduating with the class of 1967. Following high school, she attended Portland Community College, studying business, married, and had a daughter. She was an avid amateur astronomer and was an early and long-time member of the Rose City Astronomers, serving as
its president for several years. She received the
organization’s Galileo Service Award in 2003. She co-authored the book, Observing the Herschel 2, which was published by the Astronomical League and received the Omega Centauri Award from the Texas Star Party for encouraging deep sky observing. Hawaii became her second home after an initial visit in the early eighties. A two week visit to Kaanapali became an annual thing. She studied Hawaiian history and culture and learned to speak the language.
She worked for both Pacific Gas and Electric and Pacific Power as a business results analyst during her professional career, retiring in 2014. She was preceded in death by her daughter Sonney; granddaughter Ashley; and her father Roy. She is survived by her husband Doug Huston; grandchildren, Heather, David, and Robert; two great-grandchildren, Alex and Charlotte; mother Charlotte Wilburn; brother Neil Wilburn; and numerous friends.
Joyce Ann Heller
Aug. 14, 1931 ~ Jan. 27, 2022 Joyce passed away peacefully on Jan. 27, 2022 in St. Helens, Oregon. She was born on Aug. 14, 1931 in St. Helens, the daughter of ‘Heinie’ and Hilma Heumann. As a child, she lived above Heinie’s Bakery and learned how to decorate wedding cakes and bake donuts twice as good as Krispy Kreme’s. She helped deliver thousands of loaves of bread to her dad’s loyal customers in greater Columbia County. Her only sister Mary drove the truck and wrote the receipts while Joyce delivered the bread with her signature smile, charm and graciousness—hallmarks for which she would be remembered the rest of her life. Joyce graduated from St. Helens High School and attended Oregon State University, where she was a proud member of Pi Beta Phi Sorority. She maintained lifelong friendships with her beloved Pi Phi sisters, with whom she met annually for 70 years. Joyce met the love of her life, Don Heller, at the age of 21, on a blind date. After dating less than three months, Don was drafted into the Army during the Korean War. Before he left, Don asked Joyce if she would spend the rest of her life with him. Without hesitation, she said, “Yes!” Joyce and Don spent less than two weeks planning their wedding and they mar-
ried on Dec. 7, 1952. Don and Joyce moved first to Camp Roberts, California, then Castle Air Force Base in Merced, California where Don was based. While Don served in the army, Joyce went to work for the local bakery. She gave birth to her first son, John, while in California. The family moved to Scappoose, Oregon, where Joyce returned to work at Heinie’s Bakery. Shortly after, she gave birth to son, Jeff. Joyce expanded her work responsibilities to include product demonstrations for Mayflower Dairy at local grocery stores. Joyce’s friendly smile and natural persuasiveness served her well as extra truckloads of Mayflower product had to be delivered to the stores that hosted her demonstrations. When the family moved to St. Helens, Joyce worked in
the administrative department at St. Helens Hospital for 12 years. During this time, she gave birth to her third son, Rob. In St. Helens, Joyce discovered the joy of real estate brokerage. It became her life’s passion and work for over 40 years. Many of those years, she was named Realtor of the Year in Columbia County as well as becoming one of the nation’s top 1% producers…an especially remarkable feat considering the small population of South Columbia County. Joyce’s secret to success was simple: treat every client with warmth, kindness, empathy and respect. Columbia County was the benefactor of Joyce’s real estate success. She championed the county’s first condo project, promoted and facilitated businesses moving into the area, and oversaw the planning and building of many quality subdivisions, including her beloved River Club Estates on the shores of the Columbia River where she called home for the past 28 years. Joyce loved shopping, baking, her beloved P.E.O. sisterhood of 69 years, having beautiful nails and coiffed hair, lobster or Dungeness crab with a good Chardonnay, and hosting the traditional family Thanksgiving week at her Lincoln City beach home. Because of her
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infamous driving style, Joyce knew every Columbia County Police officer on a first name basis, which usually led to selling them a home! Joyce especially cherished spending extended periods of time on her beloved island of Maui, which she did for 40+ years. Joyce was gracious, inspired confidence and encouraged all. She made every person she met feel ‘special’ by finding, then focusing on something positive she found in that person. Joyce leaves behind Don, her beloved husband of 69 years; sons John (Trish), Jeff (Bev), and Rob (Tina); seven grandchildren, Susan, Leslie, Heidi, Anna, Darren, Kelsey, Miranda, and previously deceased David; plus seven great-grandchildren. The family wish to thank caregivers Pam West, Luvi Hlavinka, and Karen Leibe for their loving help and support during the recent years. In lieu of flowers donations can be made in Joyce’s name to the Heinie Heumann Memorial Scholarship, P.O. Box 1608, St. Helens, Oregon 97051 or the David Heller Foundation at, www.davidhellerfoundation.org. ‘Aloha Oe’ dear Joyce! Until we meet again. An informal celebration of Joyce’s life will be held at noon on April 2, 2022 at Sunshine Pizza, 2124 Columbia Blvd. in St. Helens.
May 15, 1970 ~ Jan. 11, 2022
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Timothy “Kirk” Martin, 51, of Wasilla, Alaska passed away on Tues., Jan. 11, 2022, at PeaceHealth St. John Medical Center in Longview, Washington. Kirk was born on May 15, 1970, in Portland, Oregon to Don and Paula Martin. After graduating from Days Creek High School in 1988, he began his career in the timber industry; a career he continued to explore on Chipshis life. and offCedar throughout Additionally, used his inGardenheMulch tellect and gifted dexterity to excel as&a Hemlock certified mas Fir Cedar Chips ter mechanic. He worked Bark Mulch hard, Garden so that Dust he could play even harder. He was an FirTrailmix & Hemlock adventurous outdoorsman Bark Dust who loved hunt and fish, Soil toBlends but most important was his •Trailmix Fir passion forShavings gold prospect-
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ing. His generosity, warmth, kindness, wit, and wisdom will leave a huge vacuum to all that shared time with him. He will be greatly missed. Kirk is survived by his loving wife Penny of
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Wasilla, Alaska; children, Ashley Martin of Eugene, Oregon, Sierra Martin of Corvallis, Oregon, Maelynn Martin of Turner, Oregon, Jimmy Keene of Wasilla, Alaska, Torry Keene of Wasilla, Alaska, Kristin Keene of Wasilla, Alaska; grandson Emmett Martin; three brothers, Gary Martin of Spokane, Washington, Drew (Darcy) Martin of Big Lake, Alaska, and Joram (Kim) Martin of Okeechobee, Florida; two sisters, Tamara (Clint) Boe of Reed Point, Montana and Tishri (Douglas) Wiest of Big Timber, Montana; and numerous beloved nieces, nephews, and cousins. He also leaves behind many close friends and adventure buddies. A special
thank you to Fritz Gunn and his entire family for their companionship and love over the last 40+ years. Kirk was predeceased by his father Don Martin and his mother Paula Martin. “I have the same hope in God as these men themselves have, that there will be a resurrection of both the righteous and the wicked.” Acts 24:15; one of Kirk’s favorite scriptures. Memorial Service: to be held on Zoom at 2 p.m. (Alaska time) on Feb. 12, 2022 https://us02web.zoom. us/j/84001168561. Passcode: 4727945; Officiating: Lance VanWyk. Visitation: from 3 p.m. – 8 p.m. on Sat., Feb. 12, 2022 at the Martin family home in Wasilla, Alaska.
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Events
Help Wanted
Annual ASTORIA AUTOMOTIVE SWAP MEET
First Lutheran Church in St. Helens looking for a piano player for Sunday morning service. For more information, contact church office at 503-397-0090. Email: 1stlutheransh@ comcast.net
Vendors Wanted!
Clatsop Fairgrounds Saturday, March 12TH 8 A.M. - 2 P.M. Call Fred (503) 440-9481 or Dorothy (503) 468-0006
Immediate Opening Shipping/Receiving/Sewing Part time 6-Noon, M-Th.
502
502
Help Wanted
Help Wanted
Apply in person only. 33550 SE Santosh St. Scappoose, OR 97056
Milo at 503-7917113 to set up an interview.
Estimator for St. Helens Auto Body Immediate opening. Call 503-3979720.
Wanted Autos
Local Carwash Looking for the right person to work at the local carwash. This would be a perfect job for a retired individual or student. Please call
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2022 CLASS LINER SPECIAL
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River City & Rentals Northwest 503-543-4440 Phone
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We buy junk/broken cars, trucks, vans, heavy equip. Top $$ paid to $100-$400. We are LOCAL, serving Columbia County. Same day service.
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Get your ad in the paper and reach out to potential customers. Call 503-397-0116 to place a classified liner today! Its only $14 for 14 lines in print and online.
Public Notices CH22-1030
NOTICE OF COLUMBIA RIVER PUD BOARD MEETING Columbia River PUD Board Vacancy At the January 18, 2022 Board meeting, the Board of Directors of Columbia River People’s Utility District (CRPUD) declared a vacancy for the position of Director of Subdivision Four beginning February 1, 2022.
The Board of Directors is inviting eligible candidates to submit letters of interest and/or resumes to fill the aforementioned vacancy. This is normally an elected office; the term of this appointment will run through December 31, 2022. The position will then be up
for election at the November 2022 general election to serve a two-year term beginning January 2023. ORS 261.405(3) provides that candidates must be an elector; must reside within the subdivision which they are running for; and must have resided in the district
continuously for two years immediately preceding the date of election/appointment. Subdivision Four consists of two Precincts, St Helens One (Precinct 21) and St Helens Four (Precinct 24). Those meeting the above requirements are invited to visit our website
at www.crpud.net/boardvacancy to access the Interest Form to submit a letter of interest and/or resume. All application materials should be addressed to the Board and must be submitted electronically no later than 5:30 p.m., Wednesday, March 9, 2022. Anyone request-
CH22-1027
BEFORE THE BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS FOR COLUMBIA COUNTY, OREGON In the Matter of Amending the Columbia County Zoning Ordinance to Comply with New Rules for Template Dwellings and Family Forest Dwellings in the Primary Forest Zone (File No. TA2201). NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING (PUBLICATION). 1. The Board of County Commissioners will hold a public hearing on Wednesday, February 23, 2022, at or after
MANDATE
From Page A1 people who are:
• Unvaccinated • Immunocompromised • At high risk of COVID-19 hospitalizations, including those with underlying health conditions and those 65 and older • Living with people at high risk Permanent rule filed
CH22-1031
NOTICE OF MEETING
10:00 a.m. virtually from the Columbia County Courthouse, located in St. Helens, OR. 2. The purpose of the hearing is to consider amendments to the Columbia County Zoning Ordinance to comply with HB 2225, which provides new rules for template dwellings in the Primary Forest zone and HB 2469, which provides new rules for family forest dwellings. 3. The proposed
amendments will be available for viewing not less than one week before the hearing at www.columbiacountyor. gov/hearings or copies may be obtained from the Board of Commissioners Office at a reasonable cost. 4. All interested parties may appear and be heard virtually by: Computer, tablet or smartphone: https://global.gotomeeting.com/join/357054141
New to GoToMeeting? Get the app now and be ready when the meeting starts: https://global.gotomeeting. com/install/870493693 Phone: United States (toll free): 1-866-899-4678 Access Code: 357-054-141 5. The location of the hearing is accessible to the disabled. lf you are in need of any special accommodations to attend or participate at this hearing, please call
Jan. 20 hearing attracted more than 300 attendees and lasted for six-and-a-half hours, with more than 100 Oregonians testifying against the adoption of a permanent rule. State health officials claimed the filing was the only way the OHA could extend the current temporary mask rule past its expiration date, or until mask rules would no longer be needed to reduce transmission of COVID-19, saving lives and preventing the Omicron crisis from further overwhelming Oregon’s health care system.
to implement the project by Feb. 22. OHA Lead Communications Officer Jonathan Modie explained the project would be an electronic means for people in Oregon to share their vaccination status with businesses that ask for proof of vaccination status and added that the decision to sign up will be “voluntary.” According to Modie, the OHA is still in the building phase of the technological tool, with an anticipated rollout date in late March. In response to the question of how the public might receive such a technology, Modie replied, “we believe people will be supportive, especially if it makes it easier to access the businesses and public places they enjoy.” Access to digital vaccine records will be free for anyone who signs up for the service and has received their COVID-19 vaccine in Oregon.
A small group of protesters staged a rally in front of Scappoose High School on Tuesday, Feb. 8, to mark the expiration date of the state’s indoor mask mandate. The mandate has been continued until at least March 31.
On Monday, Feb. 7, at Digital Vaccine Records 12:29 p.m. the OHA filed a Project new permanent rule with the Oregon Secretary of State to On Nov. 17, 2021, Orrequire people to wear masks egon’s House Interim Special while indoors in public places. Committee heard a presentaThe new rule replaces a temporary rule that expires on tion from the OHA on the Feb. 8, according to the OHA. proposal of a digital vaccine Before the filing, the OHA records project. According to the preseninvited public testimony at a tation, the OHA will make a public hearing on a proposed go/no go decision on whether permanent mask rule. The Columbia County’s trusted local news source
the Board of County Commissioners Office at (503) 397-4322 at least two days in advance. 6. The hearing will be held according to the procedures in the Columbia County Zoning Ordinance. Dated this 27th day of January, 2022. BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS FOR COLUMBIA COUNTY, OREGON By Henry Heimuller, Chair.
ing more information may email Board Secretary Heidi Ralls at hralls@crpud.org. It is anticipated the candidate selected would be appointed by CRPUD’s Board of Directors at the March 22, 2022, Regular Meeting. By: Michael J. Sykes, General Manager
McNulty Water PUD Board Meeting will be held February 15, 2022, at 7pm in person at 34240 Millard Road, Warren Oregon. If you would like to attend this meeting, please call Shannon at 503-397-1301.
Jeremy C. Ruark / The Chronicle
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Wednesday, February 9, 2022
A7
OSHA proposes new climate change protections STAFF REPORT chroniclenews@countrymedia.net
Oregon Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) is proposing rules that would strengthen protections for Oregon workers against health and safety hazards linked to the impacts of climate change: extreme heat and wildfire smoke. The rules would provide the strongest such protections in the nation. The proposed heat illness prevention rule encompasses a variety of protective measures, including access to shade and cool water, work/rest schedules, information and training, and other preventive actions and plans. The proposed wildfire smoke rule includes an array of exposure assessments and controls, and training and communication steps. Both rule proposals encompass protective measures for workers who rely on employer-provided housing, including as part of farm operations. Development of the rule proposals – which build on temporary emergency rules adopted in summer 2021 – included extensive input and review by rule advisory committees, and employer and labor stakeholders. The rule development process also featured worker and community stakeholder listening sessions. “These rulemaking efforts demonstrate our commitment to bolstering Oregon’s ability to protect workers – especially vulnerable workers who work outdoors – from extraordinary hazards that have been worsened by climate change,” Oregon Department of Consumer and Business Services (ODCBS) Director Andrew Stolfi said. “The dangers of extreme heat and wildfire smoke are not going away. That is why we must continue to build up our safeguards against them.”
Be engaged Oregon OSHA is seeking public input on the proposed rules in a variety of ways through midMarch. The proposed heat rule will have three virtual public hearings at 6 p.m. Wednesday, Feb. 23; 6 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 24; and 10 a.m. Friday, Feb. 25. The proposed wildfire smoke rule will have three virtual public hearings at 6 p.m. Wednesday, March 2; 6 p.m. Thursday, March 3; and 10 a.m. Friday, March 4. See specific public comment opportunities with this story at thechronicleonline. com. “We welcome public input on these rule proposals, which are intended to increase protections for workers while creating greater clarity, practicality, and predictability for employers as they move forward,” Oregon OSHA Interim Administrator Lou Savage said. “These proposals reflect Oregon OSHA’s longstanding mission to advance safety and health for all Oregon workers.” The division anticipates adopting the rules in April 2022, ahead of the grow and wildfire seasons. The rulemaking efforts are part of Oregon’s larger and ongoing work – initiated by Oregon Gov. Kate Brown – to mitigate the impacts of climate change. Workers have a right to a safe and healthy workplace, according to a ODCBS release. That includes the right to raise concerns free from retaliation and to file a complaint with Oregon OSHA, which advances safety for all Oregon workers through enforcement, consultation, technical, and public education and training services. The Ombuds Office for Oregon Workers, an independent advocate, offers workers help in understanding their rights within workplace safety and health rules, and their rights within the workers’ com-
• Designation of one or more employees and equipment to call for emergency services. • Implementation of a heat illness prevention work/rest schedule that is adjusted for effective protection. • Written plans and procedures to gradually adapt employees to working in the heat. Known as acclimatization, this preventive measure would include such considerations as personal and environmental risk factors, and workers’ activity levels. • A written heat-illness prevention plan that spells out what will be done to protect employees and is made available to employees. • Annual training and information for all employees and supervisors in a language that is readily understood. Metro Creative Connection
The proposed wildfire smoke rule includes an array of exposure assessments and controls, and training and communication steps.
pensation system. The ODCBS Multicultural Communications Program provides outreach to communities with limited English proficiency. That outreach includes information about on-the-job safety and health. The program includes a toll-free phone number for Spanish-speaking Oregonians: 800-8438086. Oregon OSHA encourages careful readings of the heat and wildfire smoke rule proposals. The following are summaries of each rule proposal: Proposed heat illness prevention rule The heat illness prevention rule would apply to any workplace – outdoors and indoors – where heat dangers are caused by the weather and where the heat index equals or exceeds 80 degrees Fahrenheit. It would exempt, for example,
incidental heat exposures where an employee is not required to perform work for more than 15 minutes in any 60-minute period. The requirements for employers would include: • Sufficient shade that is immediately and readily available to employees. • An adequate supply of cool drinking water – immediately and readily available to employees – with plenty of opportunities to stay hydrated. When the heat index equals or exceeds 90 degrees Fahrenheit – and work schedules and controls such as air conditioning do not reduce worker exposure below that level – then employers must engage in certain practices, including: • Effective communication that puts workers in contact with supervisors as needed.
Proposed protection from wildfire smoke rule The wildfire smoke rule applies to employers whose employees are – or will be – exposed to wildfire smoke where the ambient air concentration for fine particulate matter (also known as PM2.5) equals or exceeds an Air Quality Index (AQI) 101, which is unhealthy for sensitive groups. Sensitive groups include people with lung and heart problems; children younger than 18 and adults older than 65; pregnant women; and people with diabetes. Exemptions include, for example, enclosed buildings in which the air is filtered by a mechanical ventilation system and the employer ensures certain exterior openings are closed, except when it is necessary to briefly enter or exit. The requirements for employers would include: • Determining and monitoring employee exposure
at the start of each shift, using certain methods, to gauge the appropriate exposure controls. • Providing annual training and information for all employees who may be exposed to wildfire smoke. • Developing and implementing a system to communicate wildfire smoke hazards before exposure occurs. • Using engineering or administrative controls to reduce employee exposure to less than an AQI of 101. Engineering controls include enclosed buildings or vehicles where the air can be adequately filtered. Administrative controls include relocating work to another outdoor location with better air quality or changing work schedules. • Providing employees filtering facepiece respirators – approved by the National Institute for Occupational Safety & Health (NIOSH) – for voluntary use when exposure equals or exceeds an AQI 101. Such respirators include what is commonly known as an N95. • Ensuring employees wear NIOSH-approved filtering facepiece respirators when exposure is at or above AQI 251. For respirators used exclusively for wildfire smoke, employers may implement the Wildfire Smoke Respiratory Protection Program – as outlined in the rule proposal’s appendix, instead of conducting medical evaluations and fit-testing under the Respiratory Protection Standard. • Ensuring employees wear NIOSH-approved filtering facepiece respirators when exposure is at or above AQI 501. For respirators used exclusively for wildfire smoke concentrations at or above this level, employers must implement a complete respiratory protection program in line with the Respiratory Protection Standard.
Crossword Solution SPORTS Solution for the Feb. 2, 2021 crossword puzzle
From Page A1
assist a summer camp program geared towards middle schoolers, which Orr said was a gratifying experience. “They were not just mentors to the seventh and eighth graders, but they were their coaches and their teachers and their leaders,” she said. “Being a high school swimmer is not just about being successful yourself and being the best athlete you can be. On my team, I believe it’s also about being the best person that you can.” When they aren’t perfecting their strokes or participating in high-speed relays, the high school athletes like to let loose and have a good time. Towards the end of practice, one swimmer suggested a game of hot potato, to which his teammates answered with a resounding “yes.” The team members commenced passing around a waterproof speaker, laughing and joking with one another, managing to keep their heads above the water as music played in the background. When the speaker failed to produce any sound, one swimmer kept the momentum going by belting out his cover version of a popular song, followed by a chorus of snorts and giggles. At times, the swimmers’ antics even had Orr cracking up as she sought technical help with sound. Orr said she developed a passion for swimming at the age of nine and coached later on as a high schooler, eventually leading a team of 200 swimmers. When life got in the way, Orr still looked back fondly on her coaching experience, and a move to St. Helens brought her a fresh start. “This is a job that doesn’t feel like work to me,” Orr said. Season closeout The St. Helens Swim Team swam against four schools on Thursday: Putnam, Liberty, Hillsboro, and Scappoose. The girls beat Putnam and lost to Liberty, Hillsboro, and Scappoose.
Courtesy photo
The St. Helens swim team posed for a photo. Pictured left to right: Katie Pletsch, Molly Wheeldon, Andrew Pletsch, Adam Hudspeth, Allison Cobabe, Maja Kemper, Rebekah Robinson, Lucca Sebadelhe, and Spencer Lyons.
In a statement to St. Helens High School Athletic Director Dante Gouge, Orr clarified the girls were down in numbers, resulting in their loss to Scappoose. “These Lions will have no trouble with them at Districts. (They) rose to the occasion and left everything in the pool,” she said. Noteworthy swims include Sophomore Maggie Prevish’s time of 27.98 for the 50 freestyle, taking first of all five teams, and Senior Molly Wheeldon’s time of 1:03.01, taking second of all teams in the 100 Freestyle, as well as first overall in the 100 Backstroke with a 1:11.33. Andrew Pletsch took third overall in the 50 Freestyle with a 26.82 and the 100 Breaststroke with a 1:18.14. Orr recognized Sophomore novice swimmer Tyler Trabucco for stepping in to swim in the longer races (the 200 and 500 Freestyle) and secure additional points for the team. “(The) Boys had some tough losses, but this small team of all novice swimmers except one swam their hearts out,” Orr said. Overall, the girls took first place in the 400 Freestyle Relay involving Swimmers Katie Pletsch, Molly Wheeldon, Maggie Prevish, and Ellie Nairn, beating out the other teams by 37 seconds. The NWOC Districts meet will be held at Parkrose High School, Friday through Saturday, Feb. 11 and 12 at 9:00 a.m. Participating high schools will include Hillsboro, La
Salle Prep, Liberty, Milwaukie/Milwaukie Academy of the Arts, Parkrose, Putnam, Scappoose, St. Helens, and Wilsonville. Follow this developing story at thechronicleonline. com and in Wednesday print editions of The Chronicle. St. Helens High School Wrestling Girls The District tournament was a resounding success for the St. Helens High School Girls Wrestling Team, with all ten female wrestlers contributing to the overall score and many of the female athletes achieving first, second, and third place titles. Coach Paul Connelly said the top three girls in each weight class go to state. Six of those girls who qualified — Kate Leonard, Ashley Willis, Terese Korpela, Jezarel Ortiz, and Cambria Fund — are on his team. Connelly said the girls “gave everything they had” in this year’s tournament and took on some tough competitors, particularly Hillsboro and Scappoose’s all-female wrestling teams. “This year has been especially great for me because the girls work so hard in practice and wrestle so hard in matches,” Connelly said. “The St. Helens Girls Wrestling Team is full of girls that not only work hard, but they are also great kids. It is a real pleasure to coach girls that care so much about the sport and their fellow teammates.”
Connelly also recognized Captain Terese Korpela and Assistant Coach Hannah Barber for their leadership in guiding a successful season. Boys Coming into the District tournament this Saturday, St. Helens Boys Wrestling Coach Greg Gadbois is similarly on the lookout for the Scappoose and Hillsboro teams, the boys’ fiercest competition yet. With strength in “numbers and experience,” Gadbois said the volume of wrestlers this year (46 boys) paradoxically presented a challenge since approximately half of his team was required to sit out of the competition. “With so many kids, we were not able to get them the number of quality matches you would normally get during a typical year,” Gadbois said. Despite size constraints, the boys completed an undefeated dual meet season, both in and out of league, according to Gadbois. Gadbois gave his glowing praise to the wrestlers, telling The Chronicle he loves seeing the kids “accomplish so much.” “Each one is unique and personal and just as special,” he said. “You are extremely proud of the men they’ve become.” In a future edition, The Chronicle will feature a story about the St. Helens High School Boys and Girls Basketball Teams.
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A8
Wednesday, February 9, 2022
Super Bowl fans urged to be safe, responsible JEREMY C. RUARK jruark@countrymedia.net
The Los Angeles Rams and Cincinnati Bengals will go head-to-head in Super Bowl LVI Sunday, Feb. 13. As fans gather in Columbia County and across the nation to watch the popular National Football League game, law enforcement will be watching for impaired drivers going to and from the sport event gatherings. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) theme for this game is ‘Fans don’t let Fans Drive Drunk.’ The effort is designed to help keep impaired drivers from getting behind the wheel, suggesting to be safe and responsible, fans give up their keys to a sober designated driver before they begin drinking alcoholic beverages during the game. In most states, drivers are considered alcohol-impaired if they have a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of .08 or higher. Drunk driving can be deadly; and even small amounts of alcohol can impair judgement to make driving unsafe, according to the latest figures available from NHTSA. By the numbers According to Dec. 2021
FIREWORKS From Page A1
feedback in helping any event be successful.” Wayman affirmed the importance of the tradition to the St. Helens community. “This is a nationwide holiday that celebrates what America is all about,” she said. “I couldn’t just watch the event in St. Helens slip away knowing the importance it is to many.” Responding to Wayman’s proposal, Scholl opined during the meeting that the division of responsibilities might complicate the fireworks event planning. “I just see a struggle of power,” Scholl said. “That’s all. More conflict, more drama. I’m going to let you as a council decide.” The council ultimately agreed to take on the expense, and city councilors will confirm with Western Fireworks that a show is still happening this year, according to St. Helens Communications Officer Crystal King. At the meeting, city councilors expressed a desire to receive a more detailed
report from the Oregon Department of Transportation published by The Chronicle, every two minutes, someone is injured by a drunk driver and every 51 minutes someone is killed by a drunk driver. In 2019, Oregon experienced 2,336 substanceinvolved crashes in which 318 people died and 334 people sustained life-alerting injuries. From 2018- 2019, substance-involved fatalities increased 1%, of note is for the first time since 2014 drug only fatalities saw a decrease 17%, alcohol only involved fatalities (fatality is one person rather than one crash) saw a 5% increase and fatalities involving either alcohol or drugs decreased 9%. Poly-substance fatalities, which have increased every year since 2014, saw a 30% increase from 2017-2018. In Oregon, overall substance involved crashes increased 1% from 20172018. Fatal and serious injuries (people) as a result of substance-involved crashes increased 6%. From 2017-2018, substance involved crashes that resulted in a fatal or serious injury increased from 15% to 17% and of note, substance involved fatal and serious injury crashes account for
25% of all fatal and serious injury crashes. Marijuana affects psychomotor skills and cognitive functions critical to driving including vigilance, drowsiness, time and distance perception, reaction time, divided attention, lane tracking, coordination, and balance. After alcohol, marijuana is the drug most often found in the blood of drivers involved in crashes. Tests for detecting marijuana in drivers measure the level of delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), marijuana’s mindaltering ingredient, in the blood. But the role that marijuana plays in crashes is often unclear. THC can be detected in body fluids for days or even weeks after use, and it is often combined with alcohol. The vehicle crash risk associated with marijuana in combination with alcohol, cocaine, or benzodiazepines appears to be greater than that for each drug by itself. Opioids can cause drowsiness and can impair cognitive function. Along with marijuana, prescription drugs are also commonly linked to drugged driving crashes. In 2016, 19.7% of drivers who drove while under the influence tested positive for some type of opioid.
Penalties for DUII in Oregon The average cost for a firsttime DUII in Oregon is $4,500; however, it can be as much as $10,000 and even more if someone is injured or killed. In the State of Oregon, Driving Under the Influence of Intoxicants (DUII) is either a Class A misdemeanor or a Class C Felony. Misdemeanor DUII is punishable by a maximum sentence of one year in jail and a fine of $6,250. Felony DUII is punishable by a maximum sentence of five years in prison and a fine of $125,000. In Oregon, If convicted of felony DUII, your driving privileges will be revoked for life. In addition to the charge of DUII, additional charges may be filed against the violating driver including Reckless Driving, Recklessly Endangering Another Person, Criminal Mischief, and other charges. Violations such as Careless Driving, Violation of the Basic Rule, Failure to Obey a Traffic Control Device, Failure to Drive Within Lane, and other violations are punishable by a fine only and very rarely a license suspension. If someone is injured or killed by an impaired driver that driver may also face manslaughter and assault charges.
proposal from Wayman to evaluate her event proposal, according to King. The fireworks display contract is estimated to cost between $17,000 and $20,000 and does not cover other Fourth of July activities. King added that the councilors are still discussing how volunteers and community organizers can participate in other Independence Day-related events and the feasibility of holding fireworks displays in the future. Tourism audit approved City councilors also signed a contract for a financial audit of tourism revenue and expenditures, to be performed by Merina+Co, a Tualatin-based company. The proposal to perform financial audits for tourism came from the Tourism Committee Report recommendations issued Dec. 29, after city councilors questioned whether tourism spending was fully transparent. In the Dec. 29 Special Session, Councilor Jessica Chilton pointed out that tourism expenses went down from $500,000 in previous years to under $200,000 for the 2021-
Courtesy of the City of St. Helens
St. Helens City Councilors have pledged to fund the city’s Independence Day fireworks show this year.
22 years. In answer, City of St. Helens Finance Director Michael Brown replied during the meeting that tourism began receiving ticket revenue within the last two years, the amount of which was not directly reported to the city. Brown also reportedly had concerns about an expense amount of approximately $315,000 which he said was unaccounted for, according to the council minutes.
Curry explained that she agreed to pay expenses directly out of ticket sales, instead of having checks go back and forth. She also said she doesn’t have a way to send the receipts electronically because it includes confidential contracts for entertainment and vendors. The proposal for a new events contract recommended that ticket revenue goes to the city to record accurate
Car over embankment Jeremy C. Ruark / The Chronicle
A female driver appeared to have escaped serious injury after her car veered off Highway 30 and crashed over an embankment just north of Rainier Feb. 1. The vehicle came to rest upright in a small creek. The woman was helped out of the vehicle and remained at the scene during the investigation. According to Oregon State Police, the woman was traveling too fast and unable to navigate a turn. She was cited for failing to drive within the lane.
revenues and expenses. Based on the recommendations, the city and E2C agreed to do a third-party financial audit of the last years of tourism revenues and expenses and rework significant portions of Curry’s contract to increase transparency in funds allocation. The city entered into a personal services contract with E2C Productions, directed by Curry, for consulting and managing city events in 2019, which included a $120,000 annual compensation. Curry has led many of the city’s major events, including Spirit of Halloweentown, Christmas Tree Lighting, Fourth of July Festivities, and 13 Nights on the River. Margaret Jeffries recognized Also, during the meeting, the council commended retiring St. Helens Library Director Margaret Jeffries, who achieved the admiration of the St. Helens community for her dedication to reinvigorating the library’s many programs. “It has just been a complete privilege and pleasure,”
Jeffries said, addressing the council. “Certainly not something the library did alone. (There was) an awful lot of support to provide those unique services and programs.” Despite praise for her accomplishments, Jeffries maintained her humility throughout the speech, issuing many thanks to different departments, agencies, and organizations in the collaborative effort of enhancing the library’s offerings and expanding its programs. Each councilor was allowed to address Jeffries directly and express their gratitude for her service to the St. Helens library. To conclude the commendation, Scholl hugged Jeffries and presented her with a bouquet. “I want to give you a hug,” Scholl said. “Don’t go too far.” Jeffries was hired by the city in July 2009 as a part-time St. Helens Public Library Technician, and subsequently promoted to library director in July 2010 following the resignation of the previous director. Jeffries retired as city library director at the end of January.
Crossword Puzzle
STATEPOINT CROSSWORD THEME: Kings and Queens ACROSS
1. Outback birds 5. Pilgrimage to Mecca 8. Well, to Sofia Loren 12. Impose a tax 13. No way! 14. Malicious burning 15. ____ over 16. Radiant light 17. Ran easily 18. *”The King of Staten Island” star Pete 20. Goyim, alt. sp. 21. Mork from Ork, e.g. 22. Common furniture wood 23. “Der Ring des Nibelungen” composer 26. Petroleum product (2 words) 30. Shakespearean fuss 31. Loan shark 34. Village People hit 35. City in France 37. Street, in Paris 38. Show in progress (2 words) 39. Tiny purse 40. Was almost out of gas, e.g. (2 words) 42. *First H in HRH 43. Type of bag 45. Unguarded 47. Brick and mortar carrier
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48. Resize a dress, e.g. 50. “For ____ the Bell Tolls” 52. *Netflix royal drama (2 words) 55. Bridal veil fabric 56. One who hoes 57. Not far 59. Orderly arrangement 60. Drunkard, slangily 61. Stare 62. Country club pegs 63. Drivers’ licenses, e.g. 64. *2019 movie “Queen & ____”
DOWN
1. Not Moose or Shriner 2. Fitting reward 3. Iris holder 4. Forest spirit 5. Gingerbread sculpture 6. Kitchen garb 7. *Billie ____ King 8. *Queens neighbor 9. ESPN trophy 10. Denials 11. December 31st, e.g. 13. Lowest points 14. Plural of alga 19. Intestinal obstruction 22. Opposite of their 23. *Prince Charles’ domain 24. Temples’ innermost sanctuaries
25. Not stay in (2 words) 26. Perceive by touch 27. *The NBA’s Kansas City____ Kings (1972-75) 28. More unfriendly 29. *Late “Live” King of CNN 32. Russia’s mountain range 33. Seek a seat 36. *The last “king” of Russia 38. Proprietor 40. *The ___ Queen, regal chess character in “Through the Looking Glass” 41. Public disapproval 44. Cozy and comfortable 46. Two of these do not make a right 48. Near the wind 49. Potato soup partner, pl. 50. “She ____ a Yellow Ribbon” 51. Add to payroll 52. Native of Thailand 53. Lash mark 54. Member of National Socialist German Workers’ Party 55. Giant pot 58. “Shiny Happy People” band
Solution to crossword in next week’s issue of The Chronicle.
www.thechronicleonline.com
Wednesday, February 9, 2022
A9
Building dreams, one house at a time
Courtesy photo
Andrea Hulin and her children stand proud in the framing of their new home on South 8th Street in St. Helens. JEREMY C. RUARK jruark@countrymedia.net
It’s an annual project called ‘Walls Up.’ But over the past two years, the COVID-19 pandemic has forced Columbia County Habitat for Humanity to cancel the volunteer home building. The ‘Walls Up’ refers to constructing a new home for families that qualify for the nonprofit group’s assistance. Such a ‘Walls Up’ project occurred on Saturday, Feb. 5 on South 8th Street in St. Helens. To gain insight into such community efforts, The Chronicle reached out to Columbia County Habitat for Humanity’s (CCHFH) Executive Director Jennifer Anderson. The Chronicle: What impact has the pandemic had on your group’s efforts over the past two years? Jennifer Anderson: The pandemic impacted our organization in many ways. Initially, we closed the Restore completely for several months. Reopening fully did not happen for another six months because we felt we needed to quarantine the donations for a period of
time. Many of our ReStore volunteers are seniors and some of them did not want to volunteer anymore for fear of being exposed to COVID. We really struggled to have enough volunteers to keep the store running. On the construction side, we were not able to have large groups of volunteers, there were sharp increases in the price of lumber and supply chain issues, especially with appliances. Some of these issues continue especially on the construction side. I want to thank Paul and Wela at Columbia Economic Team who really worked overtime to get information and resources out to struggling businesses and nonprofits. The Chronicle: What is the vision of the project on South 8th Street in St. Helens and why that location? Anderson: We build wherever we can buy inexpensive land. The home we are building as well as the last two homes are on a distressed property we acquired from an estate. I love that we are taking a property that was an eyesore and a problem for the neighborhood and providing stable affordable homes for hardworking people that
really appreciate the opportunity. The Chronicle: When did the CCHFH start, why and how many projects has the group completed? Anderson: CCHFH was formed in 1999 as a grass roots organization by folks from Scappoose, St. Helens, Columbia City, Rainier, Clatskanie and Vernonia that were inspired by the housing model of using volunteers and community support to help people in need. We sent an application to Habitat for Humanity International and were approved. CCHFH is independently incorporated and is not funded by the International organization. We are working on our 12th home and have completed 37 critical home repairs which include exterior home repairs and ramps. The Chronicle: Specifically describe the work that the local chapter conducts? Anderson: CCHFH is managed individually with guidance from Habitat for Humanity International. We process all applications, assist with loan origination and down payment
Courtesy photo
The South 8th Street Habitat for Humanity Volunteers.
assistance, raise funds and recruit volunteers, acquire land and build or work with low income homeowners to make their homes safe and accessible. We also recently incorporated the Oregon Individual Development Account (IDA) into our services. Low income families and individuals can set up savings accounts for home purchases or repairs that are matched by the State of Oregon. On the ReStore side we take in donated home furnishings and building materials which diverts approximately 180 tons of material from the landfill annually. We recycle metal and sell reprocessed paint. We offer opportunities for community service, basic job training skills and a place for seniors to connect. Our volunteers are fantastic. We could not run the store without them and they are so friendly to customers and each other. I love the sense of community. The Chronicle: How do you select the families to be connected to the housing projects? Anderson: We build for people with household
income between 35 and 60 percent of the median income. The families we select need to be able to pay an affordable mortgage, have decent credit and low debt. Some families have tried buying homes previously, but never qualify for enough. Habitat for Humanity makes it possible. Once we have a qualified pool of applicants, we select the family with the most need. Each family is required to contribute 400 hours of sweat equity which includes financial education. It is a lot of work, but very rewarding to the families willing to take on the challenge. The Chronicle: How are the projects funded? Anderson: About half our funds come from the ReStore. Individual donors, churches, grants and the proceeds from affordable mortgages help fill in the gap. Donated building materials and help from the City on fees are always appreciated. The Chronicle: What do you take away from these projects? Anderson: Throughout this process we really get
to know the families. It is inspiring to hear about their struggles and watch them succeed! The transformation is amazing. Housing is such a basic need that having stable, affordable housing allows people to pursue other goals whether it be saving for retirement or pursuing higher education. New homeowner Andrea Hulin also shared her insight with The Chronicle into what the volunteer project means to her family. “It means new beginnings, a fresh start,” Hulin said. “A place for the kids and I to call home. Having this opportunity means the world to us. Getting chosen as the partner family for habitat, has opened doors, I don’t know if I would’ve been able to open without their help and support. We’re so blessed to be chosen, and excited to start a new chapter of our lives. Building our own home is so much fun, and the people I have met through habitat are amazing. Oscar, Lucy and I are ready for this next adventure.” For more information about Columbia County Habitat for Humanity, visit info@habitatcolumbiacounty.org.
Rhythm in your soul.
Let’s keep you healthy.
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AD-1565 ©2022
We know you’d rather be hitting the high notes than seeing a doctor, but should you need care — routine, urgent, or specialty — we’re here, ready to keep you singing, your way.
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A10
Wednesday, February 9, 2022
The Valentine Edition Messages of Love
Shopping Local
Messages of love A-, Ha ppy Valent (LAFA) ine sweet s Day thin Love, - g! L
Events
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To my favorite husband Happy Valentine’s from your last wife!
ur love and o y , y n o h t An ns strengthe g in d n a t s under Henry, you d n a e n u J me. To d home. n a t h g li y are m I love you! ckman Shelby He Heather, thank you for being a wonderful wife, mom and grandmother. You make our family better every day! Dave
e ere her w u o y Wished day my love, to with us y we miss you d .. and dad and Robert. a th Saman I.P Todd R.
Julie yo u ar everyth e my ing I love yo . u Love, Pa . ul Byron- you are my knight in shining armor! Love, Betty
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Pick up a Oregon Lottery or Powerball ticket Enjoy slots in our lottery room
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Community Economic Development Grant Designed to promote economic development and enhance livability in our community. Grant amounts of up to $5,000 available. Apply by Feb. 28 at crpud.net/grant.
www.thechronicleonline.com
Wednesday, February 9, 2022
A11
To last a lifetime Looking back on decades of love ZOE GOTTLIEB chronicle2@countrymedia.net
On the evening of March 13, 1965, at a bar in Ventura, California, Shirley Paden was out to have a good time. What she didn’t know was she was about to have the dance of her life. “She was dancing, and right after the dance, we hit it off,” husband Doug Walker said. “That was the beginning of it.” Doug said he instantly knew Shirley was the one. “I didn’t say much about it for another one or two dates,” he said. “It took me quite a while to convince her.” “My buddy, he thought I was nuts,” he added. Shirley, too, was hard to convince. “When he first asked me to marry him, I said ‘no, get lost,” she said. Shirley admitted this was a test, and by sending him away, he could determine whether there was a doubt in his mind that he wanted to marry her. Doug returned a month later, steadfast in his love for her. The couple wed in July. Eighteen days later, he shipped off to Vietnam. With a chasm of geographic distance to separate them, Doug said he made Shirley promise to write to him every day. And she did. The Chronicle asked the pair they like most about each other. “Beautiful, intelligent, as caring as a person could be. I just loved her right off the bat,” Doug said.
Zoe Gottlieb / The Chronicle
Shirley and Doug Walker pose for a photo in front of the Chronicle’s office.
Doug and Shirley explained the magic that keeps them together after 56 years of marriage. “I think actually to me, it’s everything he does,” Shirley said. “We have deep mutual respect, personally and emotionally,” Doug answered. Though the couple hasn’t been without the occasional spat, they have continuously stuck by each other’s side, with the encouragement of their respective families. Doug brought in a picture to The Chronicle of the two of them on their wedding day: he in his military uniform, she in her white gown, her hair done in white ringlet curls, a picture of Marilyn Monroe. “She was a very gor-
geous bride,” he said, glancing over at her. “Still is.” Joe and Dena Nelson For St. Helens residents Dena and Joe Nelson, the foundation for a 60-year marriage started with a chance encounter and a game of pinochle. Dena and Joe were both 20 years old in 1962, living in Tacoma and taking courses at the University of Puget Sound when they met through mutual friends. “We met essentially in the student union building during dinner,” Joe said. “He asked me for a coffee date, and there was an art display going on the campus,” Dena added, reminiscing on the moment that
Zoe Gottlieb / The Chronicle
The Nelsons of St. Helens say respect, patience, and laughter are the secrets to an enduring marriage.
changed her life forever. “I love art, and he wanted to go to the art show. He was the first feller I had dated who was really honest and liked art.” “We sat down to have coffee afterward, and I felt at home,” Dena said. Joe told The Chronicle it took a cascade of moments, rather than a single moment, to realize Dena was “the one.” “The moment?” Joe said. “Well, I think my moment(s) were before then because she used to tease me all the time. I wanted to go out with her but she went out with somebody else so I was really jealous. “Finally, I asked for a date, so it was like ‘Ok. We
can do this.’ So we did. We pretty much stayed together after that.” Joe said his and Dena’s differences are part of the glue that draws them together, but more importantly, “I like her. I not only love her, I like her too.” Joe achieved his Master’s degree, but Dena had taken a hiatus from her education after she and Joe wed. Despite their whirlwind romance, Dena returned to school ten years later to finish her Social Science degree and took a job as an event planner, setting up trade shows and conventions. In 1972, Joe took a job opening at a lab, and the Nelsons moved to Columbia County.
Dena, a city girl at heart, had a tough time with the transition at first, but one way or another, she stuck around, and they raised their two children - both boys - in St. Helens. Those two boys went on to have children of their own, also boys. The couple has since welcomed one great-grandchild and three step-grandkids, into the family fold. Joe and Dena Nelson are now 79 years old and retired. They tolerate each other’s quirks - Dena is a late sleeper, according to Joe, and Dena swears by the fact that no one can break Joe’s concentration when he’s focused - as well as celebrate each other’s strengths. More importantly, Joe uplifts Dena when she needs it, and she returns the favor. When it was discovered Dena had brain tumors, without hesitation, Joe took over the household chores and continued to care for Dena. “We’re a team,” Joe said, which Dena affirmed. “I think that’s one of the philosophies that makes a long-lasting marriage, is your teamwork,” she said. The pair have done a lot of traveling together and made memories over the years, but for Dena and Joe, two specific memories come to mind. “Sitting on a lanai in Hawaii and having breakfast as the sun comes up,” Joe said. “There’s so many,” Dena answered. “I think my best memory was waking up the morning after we were married, and we were together. It was such a comfort.”
The history of Valentine’s Day STAFF REPORT chroniclenews@countrymedia.net
Valentine’s Day is a day set aside to show your love through greetings, gifts and flowers. It has been suggested that the holiday has origins in the Roman festival of Lupercalia, held in midFebruary, according to the Britannica, an online website. The festival, which celebrated the coming of spring, included fertility rites and the pairing off of women with men by lottery. At the end of the 5th century, Pope Gelasius I forbid the
celebration of Lupercalia and is sometimes attributed with replacing it with St. Valentine’s Day, but the true origin of the holiday is vague at best. Valentine’s Day did not come to be celebrated as a day of romance until about the 14th century. Valentine’s Day is celebrated on Monday, February 14, 2022. The Britannica account states that formal messages, or valentines, appeared in the 1500s, and by the late 1700s commercially printed cards were being used. The first commercial valentines in the United States were printed in the mid-1800s.
Valentines commonly depict Cupid, the Roman god of love, along with hearts, traditionally the seat of emotion. Because it was thought that the avian mating season begins in mid-February, birds also became a symbol of the day. Traditional gifts include candy and flowers, particularly red roses, a symbol of beauty and love. The day is popular in the United States as well as in Britain, Canada, and Australia, and it is also celebrated in other countries, including Argentina, France, Mexico, and South Korea. In the Philippines it is the most common wedding anniver-
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sary, and mass weddings of hundreds of couples are not uncommon on that date. The holiday has expanded to expressions of affection among relatives and friends. Many schoolchildren exchange valentines with one another on this day. The most popular flowers for Valentine’s Day are long-stemmed red roses, followed by carnations and Valentine’s Lilies. The most popular candies for Valentine’s Day are conversation hearts, followed by chocolate. In Oregon, the most popular Valentine’s Day candy are M&Ms, according to Explore Food & Wine.
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Join us for our Galentine’s Day Event Saturday February 12th 10am to 3pm
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Wednesday, February 9, 2022