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Wednesday, March 23, 2022

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Serving Columbia County since 1881

County launches hospital feasibility study “Several states are considering reforms,” Paul said. “I do believe the time is right to have those tough conversations. Our local governments need to weigh the secondary effects, both positive and negative. It’s very clear that healthcare systems and hospitals play an important role in local economies and are often the largest employers in the communities they serve. Hospitals are known as anchor institutions because of their significance to community and economic development.”

Following the published article with Paul in October 2021, the Chronicle conducted an online poll asking readers if they believe it is time to build a hospital in Columbia County. In the responses published in The Chronicle’s Nov. 3 edition, 76% said yes, 24% said no.

JEREMY C. RUARK jruark@countrymedia.net

Columbia County is moving forward with a hospital feasibility study.

A request for proposals from contractors to conduct the study was published in The Chronicle March 9.

The significant need for a hospital located within the county has been highlighted during the COVID-19 pandemic, according to Columbia County Public Information Officer Mark Pacheco.

“County residents need to travel to a neighboring county or out of state to access emergency medical care or visit hospitalized friends and family.” Pacheco said.

History In October 2021, The Chronicle published an interview with Columbia County Public Health Director Michael Paul asking a series of questions about the need for a hospital in the county.

Paul explained that several decades ago the Oregon State Legislature established a health planning program within the Oregon Heath Authority, and it directed the Oregon Health Authority to adopt rules specifying criteria and procedures for making decisions as to the need for new healthcare facilities, including hospitals. The primary goal of the program is to assure that health services are adequately distributed around the state, without unnecessary duplication of services or excessive costs to patients.

“In 2009, the Oregon Health

The next steps

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Columbia County is launching a hospital feasibility study to determine if such a medical center should be built.

Authority denied an application submitted by Columbia Health District to build a 12-bed hospital in St. Helens,” Paul said.

In the 2021 article, The Chronicle also asked Paul if he thought the time is right for Columbia County to open discussions about citing a hospital in the county, and if so, why?

Paul said that periodically evaluating access to all levels of care is an important governmental

function, whether it leads to the development of a hospital or not.

“As we move into the rescue and recovery phase of COVID, it’s important for local and state agencies to undertake a critical review of our systems and evaluate continuity and availability of care,” Paul said. “Health equity is a key component of public health modernization; it means that everyone has a fair and just opportunity to be as healthy as possible. In this

“The growing number of students led to the demand for more space, which leads to conversations and drawings of the options to modify the current school design. That, in turn, lead to the vision of remodeling and construction of a brandnew school building and parking lot, as well as refurbishing the current gymnasium.”

taking eight months to one year to complete.

“We will be using the playground area to expand, so the classrooms will be way bigger than we have (with) more classrooms,” Aguilar explained. “We’ll (also) have the resource room that teachers’ lounge will be in, and we will have the conference room, resource center, and a lobby.”

Phase two will involve refurbishing the old gymnasium and adding a music/language arts center, and the contractor will build a brand-new gym in the third and

context, it means that hospitals should be located strategically so that specific communities are not suffering worse health outcomes than other communities because of the location of hospitals.”

According to Paul, the pandemic has also brought additional scrutiny to certificate of need laws and some experts argue these laws actually limit access to healthcare services because they favor large, established health systems.

To explore the viability of a county hospital, the Columbia County Board of Commissioners needs to examine the data provided by a hospital feasibility study, according to Pacheco.

“A feasibility study is a multi-phase project that can be a significant undertaking,” Pacheco said. “The first step is to complete a market and financial feasibility study to see if the project can move forward. With favorable results, the Board of Commissioners can look into other factors such as the type of hospital, possible locations, cost, and funding.”

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See HOSPITAL Page A6

$6.3 million upgrade for local school ZOE GOTTLIEB chronicle2@countrymedia.net

Scappoose Adventist School (SAS) is soon to receive a multimillion-dollar makeover.

With Principal Girlie Aguilar at the helm, SAS’s campus will undergo a design change to accommodate a growing number of enrollments.

“Principal Girlie Aguilar has been extremely creative and successfully figured out how to accommodate the swelling numbers of families in the local community who want to give their children an excellent Christian education,” School Registrar Nancy Reed said.

Phased project The project will be split into three phases and cost $6.3 million.

Aguilar said two contractors, RLS Architects and Portland/Vancouver-based Shearer Construction, will oversee the multimilliondollar expansion, with phase one

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Courtesy photo

See SCHOOL Page A6

This is a conceptual drawing of the floorplan for the new $6.3 million Scappoose Adventist School.

Easter egg hunts back in full force ZOE GOTTLIEB chronicle2@countrymedia.net

As more people shed their winter clothes heading into spring, Columbia County event organizers are detailing plans to bring back a highly-coveted Easter tradition.

In St. Helens, organizers have revamped the mecca of all Easter events in Columbia County.

In 2018, mEGGa Egg Hunt attracted around 3,500 participants to

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the Columbia County Fairgrounds.

Coordinating the event involves “a lot of logistics,” according to mEGGa Egg Hunt Board of Directors President Heather Epperly.

Pre-COVID, the 22-year-old egg hunting extravaganza featured a petting zoo, face painting, and pony rides, among a wide range of other kid-friendly activities. This year, organizers have had to scale back the spectacle.

“This year, of course, we’re kind of pulled back a little bit,” Epperly said. “We’re hoping next year that we can bring back the face painting and the food booths and some of the other stuff that go along with our events. But this year, we’re just kind of happy to have a hunt.”

Epperly outlined some of the specific challenges she and her board faced in coordinating the egg hunt for April 16, 2022.

“Going up to it, we were trying to decide what route we were going to go, whether we were going to have a

Chronicle photo

Last year’s traditional mEGGa Egg Hunt at the Columbia County Fairgrounds was conducted as a drive-thru event due to the pandemic.

full time or do a drive-thru event like we had done previously,” she said.

“We were trying to decide what was available to us. By the time that it became obvious that the restrictions

were starting to lift, we just didn’t have enough time,” she said.

According to Epperly, most of the preparation for the mEGGa Hunt happens “six months to a year” in ad-

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vance. Although COVID-19 regulations have since loosened, organizers had to prepare for every contingency and lost the necessary time to put on a larger display characteristic of mEGGa events.

“It was really kind of difficult this year, trying to figure out what we could and couldn’t do,” Epperly said.

According to Epperly, organizers had to cut back the time allotted for egg hunting this year, with the event running from 10 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. instead of the usual 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.

However, families can expect to see a wide selection of childrens’ activities brought back this year, such as the coloring contest, scavenger hunt, and prize coin hunt.

“We’re going to place little pictures of bunnies around the fairgrounds for the kids to find, and they’ll have a little sheet that they can mark off (when) they(‘ve) found

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Wednesday, March 23, 2022

Late-season rise in flu cases JEREMY C. RUARK jruark@countrymedia.net

This month’s lifting of state mask requirements put in place during the COVID-19 pandemic is prompting many Oregonians to remove their face coverings.

Oregon health officials say it’s a good time to urge people about the importance of getting vaccinated against another circulating virus: influenza.

Oregon is seeing a late-season rise in flu cases – flu season generally peaks around late January or February – as mask requirements for public indoor spaces and schools fall away, making it easier to spread the virus from person to person, according to Oregon Health Authority (OHA) communicable disease experts.

“The 2020-2021 flu season was virtually nonexistent as public health restrictions, such as stayhome orders, mask requirements, and limits on indoor and outdoor gatherings, kept flu cases down at record-low

levels,” OHA’s Public Health Division Medical Director for Communicable Diseases and Immunizations Paul Cieslak, M.D. said. “Now we’re seeing more cases at a time when the season is usually coming to a close.”

During the week of March 6 to March 12, Oregon reported that 3.1% of influenza tests were positive, compared with 2.5% the week of Feb. 27 to March 5, 1.6% the week of Feb. 20 to Feb. 26, and .6% the week of Feb. 6 to Feb. 12. During the same week of the 2020-2021 season, a scant .1% of flu tests were positive. The vast majority of flu cases have been influenza A. Cieslak emphasizes that it’s still not too late to get a flu vaccine, and getting it now, as indoor and outdoor gatherings become more common, can help reverse the surge. Getting vaccinated can also reduce the severity of flu illness even if you get infected.

Anyone ages six months and older should get the flu vaccine, particularly young children, older adults and

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Influenza, also known as flu, is a contagious respiratory illness caused by influenza viruses, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

those who have chronic conditions such as cardiovascular disease or metabolic diseases such as diabetes.

Pregnant women should get vaccinated since children younger than six months can’t get the flu vaccine.

When a pregnant woman gets the vaccine, it means she not only avoids serious complications during pregnancy, but she also transmits,

through the placenta, precious flu antibodies for her unborn child.

The Flu vaccine will not protect against COVID-19.

That’s why it’s important to get the flu vaccine and the COVID-19 vaccine, both of which are available from healthcare providers, local health departments and many pharmacies in Oregon.

The flu vaccine is free or

low cost with most health insurance plans. To find a flu vaccine clinic, visit www.flu. oregon.gov and use OHA’s flu vaccine locator tool.

Getting vaccinated is the best way to prevent the flu, according to health officials.

Additional ways Oregonians can help prevent the spread of flu include:

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). The flu can cause mild to severe illness, and at times can lead to death.

Flu signs and symptoms usually come on suddenly, the CDC states. People who are sick with flu often feel some or all of these symptoms:

• Staying home from work or school when you are sick and limit contact with others.

• Covering your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze.

• Washing hands frequently with soap and water; use an alcohol-based hand rub if soap and water are not available.

• Avoiding touching your eyes, nose and mouth.

• Cleaning and disinfecting surfaces and objects that may have flu germs on them.

• Avoiding getting coughed and sneezed on.

• Fever or feeling feverish/chills • Cough • Sore throat • Runny or stuffy nose • Muscle or body aches • Headaches • Fatigue (tiredness)

Influenza, also known as flu, is a contagious respiratory illness caused by influenza viruses, according to the

Some people may have vomiting and diarrhea, though this is more common in children than adults.

It’s important to note that not everyone with flu will have a fever.

For more information, visit OHA’s flu prevention page. Also, visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s FluView page for updates on influenza activity around the country.

Preparing for the worst, hoping for the best JEREMY C. RUARK jruark@countrymedia.net

Despite the frequent rain over the past few weeks and more on the way, local fire agencies are urging everyone to prepare for what could be an intense summer and fall wildfire season.

According to the U.S. Drought Monitor, as of Feb. 22, 74% of the Pacific Northwest is in drought, with 19% in extreme or exceptional drought. The continued drying conditions will intensify the wildland fire threat in much of the state and that has fire districts in Columbia County already preparing for the worst and hoping for the best.

The fire agencies are urging property owners to start taking safety steps now to best prepare for the wildfire season ahead.

In the following conversation with The Chronicle, Columbia River Fire & Rescue (CRFR) Division Chief of Operations Eric Smythe provides us with the latest insight.

The Chronicle: Given the latest drought forecasting and concerns outlined by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), what concerns does CRFR have at this point as we move closer to the summer and fall wildland fire season?

Eric Smythe: CRFR recognizes the changes that are affecting our fire seasons. In the past we normally did not see any natural cover/wildfires in our district until late May or early June. Over the last several years we have seen fires in March and April.

This is outside the normal fire season, so we are adjusting our responses and equipment staffing to meet the earlier starts to our wildland fire season.

As a district, we work closely with our community partners such as Oregon Department of Forestry (ODF) and the other fire resources to meet the challenges presented by natural cover fires in the urban interface boundaries. Urban interface is where human population meets the natural forest. This interaction creates the potential for fires directly affecting our populace.

The Chronicle: What is most concerning to CRFR about wildland fire behavior and what makes such behavior so dangerous in extreme wildfires?

Smythe: Seasonal fires have become more erratic and potentially dangerous over the last decade. Fire districts are witnessing larger, more aggressive fires that are prone to rapid spread. The rapid spread

exceeds the local fire resources and requires local, state, and federal resources to mitigate these fires. The issue for most fire districts is that mobilization of additional resources takes time, and time equates to more acreage destroyed and threats to human habitation.

Citizens and property owners/renters can assist their local fire districts by maintaining a safe clearance around structures, dwellings, and homes.

Owners/renters can remove items that will contribute to rapid fire spread such as garbage, brush piles, wood piles, discarded vehicles, and discarded materials that would allow to a fire to grow rapidly.

CRFR had a fire in the City of St. Helens last year off of Columbia Boulevard that grew rapidly due to a large wood pile, dead plant material, and heavy brush near the homes. That fire threatened dozens of homes and businesses from a relatively small area of brush, less than two acres.

If we as property owners reduce potential materials that are near their home or business, this may allow for faster mitigation of a fire and limit its spread.

The Chronicle: When and how will CRFR start its wildland fire protection training?

Smythe: CRFR conducts pre-fire season training at the beginning of every calendar year and it progresses through

the spring. Fire district members are required to attend annual training and take courses designed to enhance their knowledge in wildland fire mitigation. CRFR has multiple fire apparatus designed to attack fires quickly and at its source before it grows beyond local resource control. Our fire apparatus are off-road capable, carrying firefighters, tools, equipment, and water to the scene anywhere in our district.

A reminder that our staffed fire stations utilize cross-staff training for both ambulances and fire apparatus. Our members can transport a patient to a hospital or respond a fire apparatus to a fire. CRFR constantly monitors our call volume, personnel needs, and response models in order to facilitate the needs of our stakeholders.

The Chronicle: Does CRFR offer property audits, with a representative coming to a property and actually showing specific fire safety steps needed?

Smythe: If a member of the community requests a visit from our fire marshal, it can be arranged. The ODF, and Columbia City also offer a review of a property if requested by the owner.

See a variety of ways to prepare your home and property for the wildfire season ahead with this story at thechronicelonline. com.

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Fire agencies in Columbia County and across the state are already preparing for the summer and fall wildfire season.

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Wednesday, March 23, 2022

PCC president finalists go public munity College, Higher Educational Research and Development Institute, National Asian Pacific Islander Council, Seattle Metropolitan Chamber of Commerce, King County Workforce Development Council, King County United Way, Washington Technology University, and more.

STAFF REPORT chroniclenews@countrymedia.net

The four finalists for Portland Community College’s (PCC) president were to meet and greet the public during a series of community forums this week.

The four, Adrien Bennings, Naydeen GonzalezDe Jesus, Craig Herndon and Shouan Pan, were selected from a group of eight semi-finalists after college officials reviewed more than 40 applicants from around the country.

The next president will be PCC’s eighth since the college was founded in 1961. The announcement of PCC’s next president is anticipated to take place in April. The new president will replace Mark Mitsui, who is retiring from PCC at the end of this academic year, in June.

Each of the four candidates were scheduled to participate in open forums as part of their visits. The forums were scheduled to be in person and simultaneously live-streamed Monday through Thursday, March 21 through 24.

The following is taken from the full background information released by PCC about each of the finalists.

See the full background with

About Portland Community College Courtesy photos from PCC Shouan Pan

Naydeen Gonzalez-De Jesus

Craig Herndon

Adrien Bennings

this story at thechronicelonline.com.

tion, with roles in student support, academic affairs, and extensive community college leadership for workforce development, advocacy and administration. Since 2018, he has served as the senior vice chancellor for administration, finance and technology for the Virginia Community College System (VCCS), which fulfills the education and workforce development needs for nearly 250,000 people at 23 community colleges on 40 campuses throughout the commonwealth.

she oversees a multi-campus institution within a threecounty service area. She is also the president of the Kellogg Community College Foundation and serves as a voting member of the foundation board. In this role, she leads the foundation’s strategic planning and fundraising activities, advocating for equity, diversity, and inclusion.

Bennings has taught courses in human resource development, academic development and retention and small business development. She has held progressively higher-level positions in higher education for more than 15 years.

Naydeen Gonzalez-De Jesus Gonzalez-De Jesus is the executive vice president of student success at Milwaukee Area Technical College (MATC) in Wisconsin.

During her tenure at MATC, she has ensured collaborative strategic implementation of initiatives to improve student support and the college’s commitment to the guided pathways framework, which brings together academics and student services.

Craig Herndon Herndon has more than 20 years of professional experience in higher educa-

Adrien Bennings Bennings is the president of Kellogg Community College, one of 28 community colleges in the state of Michigan. In this capacity,

Shouan Pan Pan has served as chan-

cellor of Seattle Colleges since 2016 and has 30 years of experience promoting student, institutional and community success. Previous administrative roles include president of Mesa Community College; provost of Broward College-South Campus (Pembroke Pines, Florida); executive dean of instruction and student services at Florida State College in Jacksonville; dean of student life at the Community College of Philadelphia; and assistant professor of educational psychology and recruitment and retention administrator at Northern Arizona University.

He is actively engaged at local, state, and national levels, serving on the board of directors of the League of Innovation in the Com-

Portland Community College is the largest postsecondary institution in Oregon and provides training, degree and certificate completion, and lifelong learning to more than 50,000 full- and part-time students in Multnomah, Washington, Yamhill, Clackamas, and Columbia counties.

PCC has four comprehensive campuses, eight education centers or areas served, and approximately 200 community locations in the Portland metropolitan area. The PCC district encompasses a 1,500-squaremile area in northwest Oregon and offers two-year degrees, one-year certificate programs, short-term training, alternative education, pre-college courses and lifelong learning.

Visit PCC news on the web at http://news.pcc.edu.

Oregon Outdoors:

‘Know Before You Go’ STAFF REPORT chroniclenews@countrymedia.net

Springtime in Oregon offers beautiful scenery to explore, but the Office of Emergency Management (OEM) cautions it can also be dangerous.

Camping, hiking, boating and other recreation adventures can result in Search and Rescue (SAR) operations to find and assist those who have become lost or injured. OEM encourages spring breakers and outdoor enthusiasts to “Know Before You Go” to keep themselves and their loved ones safe with advanced planning and preparation.

“On average, more than 1,000 SAR missions are conducted each year in Oregon, and over the last decade, 99% of people needing SAR assistance lived outside the county where they were rescued,” State SAR Coordinator Scott Lucas said. “Lack of preparedness is often the common denominator. People should know their physical limits and plan for activities that won’t exceed their experience to avoid becoming a search and rescue statistic.”

Whether traveling for a few hours or a week, having a plan will help explorers be prepared for any Oregon adventure. Before heading out, OEM recommends the following best practices: • Look up the destination and get familiar with the area.

• Check weather conditions.

• Download maps to a cell phone or print them in case there is no cell service.

• Check Tripcheck.com or call 511 for road conditions.

• Enable Wireless Emergency Alerts (WEA) on cell phones.

• Check Oregon’s Recreation Site Status Map before traveling to confirm the destination is open.

• Bring clothing layers and footwear appropriate for the weather and terrain.

• Pack the proper equipment and extra food, water and supplies.

• Have an emergency kit and cell phone charger in the vehicle.

• Travel with a companion.

• Share travel plans with someone, including the destination and estimated return.

“We want everyone, including Oregonians and visitors, to get outside and discover all our state has to offer,” Oregon Office of Outdoor Recreation Director Cailin O’Brien-Feeney said.

Courtesy photo

A Corvallis Mountain Rescue member pauses during a rescue and recovery mission on Mt. Jefferson at the Warm Springs Reservation.

Courtesy photo

A Search and Rescue team conducts a mission in Benton County in 2016.

Courtesy photo

Marine law enforcement officials conduct a swift water practice mission near Willamette Falls.

“We also want them to do so safely. Recent COVID-19 restrictions and wildfire damage have led people to explore unfamiliar terrain when recreating. We encourage people to be prepared for their next adventure so they can minimize their impact on the communities they visit.”

Spring sunshine sends many travelers to Oregon’s beaches, lakes and rivers where the water is still cold — usually around 50 degrees.

Anyone near the water should always wear a life jacket; check the Oregon State Marine Board (OSMB)’s map of life jacket loaner stations to borrow for the day if you don’t have your own. Life jackets greatly reduce the risk of drowning due to cold water shock.

“Boating on Oregon’s

waterways is thrilling and fun, but it also takes skill and know-how because conditions can change quickly,” OSMB Public Information Officer Ashley Massey said.

“Being prepared with the right equipment and checking for any reported obstructions will go a long way to making sure you have a safe and enjoyable experience.”

Oregon’s SAR program supports the broad spectrum of search and rescue operations throughout the state, including coordinating activities of state and federal agencies involved in search and rescue and providing on-scene search and rescue efforts when requested. There is no charge for SAR calls. In case of emergencies, dial 9-11; most Oregon counties also accept texts to 9-1-1.

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Opinion

Wednesday, March 23, 2022

Viewpoints

Honoring farmers and ranchers ANNE MARIE MOSS Chronicle Guest Column

The Oregon Farm Bureau invites readers to remember the importance of farmers and ranchers to their daily lives.

Because of the productivity, efficiency, and reliability of agriculture producers, many of us don’t have to give a second thought to where our food comes from.

As long as the grocery store shelves are stocked, the origin of food is the furthest thing from our minds.

So, who are Oregon’s farmers and ranchers?

There are 67,595 farmers and ranchers in Oregon, according to the latest U.S. Census of Agriculture. Their average age is 57.9 years and 44% are women. Despite representing less than 2% of the state population, these families contribute enormously to Oregon’s economy, landscape, and quality of life.

While inflation has driven up the cost of food, Oregon’s farmers and ranchers are not getting richer. After accounting for input costs, ag producers receive an average of only 8 cents out of every dollar spent on food at home and away from home. The rest goes for costs beyond the farm gate: wages and materials for production, processing, marketing, transportation, and distribution.

Price-takers As “price-takers, not price-makers,” most farmers and ranchers also have no control of the price they get for their products. A farmer is not like a shoe retailer who can simply increase a price tag in a store to offset increased supply costs. These are businesses that sell their goods through domestic or international commodity markets, which determine the product’s price. Some farm-

ers don’t know until months after delivery what they’ll get for their harvest.

Another factor that distinguishes agriculture from other industries is the fact that 97% of Oregon farms and ranches are family owned and operated. What other sector can boast that level of family ownership?

The Oregon Century Farm & Ranch Program has recognized 1,247 farms as remaining operational and in the same family for at least 100 years, and it has bestowed 47 farms with a Sesquicentennial award for reaching the 150-year mark.

Few jobs involve wearing so many hats. Besides tending to their crops and animals, farmers and ranchers are businessowners, marketers, agronomists, climate scientists, mechanics, breeding specialists, pest experts, purchasing officers, market forecasters, water administrators, accountants,

Community Calendar COVID-19 Testing The COVID-19 testing site at the Columbia County Rider Transit Center at 1155 Deer Island Road in St. Helens is open daily from 8 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Monday through Thursday until March 31.

Schedule an appointment online at cur.tv/sthelens or by calling 888-702-0942 (Curative) or 503-397-7247 (Public Health).

March 24 Garden Club Meeting The Scappoose Garden Club meeting opens at 11 a.m. for social time with a special program at 11:30 a.m. at 51555 SW Old Portland Road in St. Wenceslaus Catholic Church Parish Hall. The special program will discuss Air Plants by a guest speaker.

Anyone is welcome to attend.

For more information email Scappose garden club @ gmail.com.

April 1 Sheriff’s Sale The Columbia County Sheriff’s Sale is scheduled for 10 a.m. in the lobby of the Columbia County Justice Facility at 901 Port Ave. in St. Helens. County-owned, taxforeclosed properties will be sold to the highest bidder by oral auction. Additional details can be found by visiting https://www.columbiacountyor.gov/surplus-property.

April 2 Shred Day 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the InRoads Administration Building located at 1720 St. Helens Street in St. Helens.

InRoads Credit Union will help protect your credit and identity with a fast and free shred day event. Bring your sensitive mail and other papers that need to be shredded, up to two boxes or bags of paper per vehicle, to Shred Day and we’ll chop it up into itsy-bitsy pieces for free. For more information, contact InRoads at 503-397-2376.

April 2 Nob Hill Nature Park Work A volunteer work party will assemble at at Nob Hill Nature Park from 9 a.m to noon and 1 to 4 p.m. The work includes weeding, mulching and ivy removal and replanting. Dress for the weather, including rain gear if needed. Please bring gloves, tools, water and snack items. Masks and social distancing are appreciated.

This work party takes place rain or shine. Meet at the city’s wastewater treatment plant, 451 Plymouth Street, in St Helens. All are welcome.

Pre-registration is requested

by Friday, April 1 by calling Scappoose Bay Watershed Council at 503-397-7904. Or e-mail to: info@scappoosebay-wc.org. For day of event, call 503-349-8586.

April 22 Earth Day 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. in Scappoose. For details, see the City of Scappoose Facebook page.

May 14 Arts Guild Event The Columbia Arts Guild invites the community to an elegant evening of fire art, music, appetizers and conversation from 5 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. at the St. Helens Community Center, 2625 Gable Road in St. Helens.

Paintings by local artists will be available for purchase. For more information call 503396-0875.

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 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 503-789-9240 Visit the council’s website for agenda postings and Zoom at www.lowercolumbiariver.org/ events-page.

Resonate Recovery Meets at 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.

POSTMASTER: Send address changes to The Chronicle PO Box 1153 St. Helens, OR 97051-8153

Innovators Farmers are also innovators. For a sector that’s based on the most basic of components – soil, water, sunlight – farmers and ranchers are frequently early adaptors to technology. They’re continually looking to produce more with less: less water, less fertilizer, fewer pesticides, less fuel. This means using drones to check field health, smartphone-controlled irrigation systems, GPS-driven tractors, or sophisticated sprayers that control chemicals down to the droplet.

And whether a farm is organic, conventional, biotech, no-tech, or a combination

thereof, ag producers have more that unites them than divides them.

One commonality is an unshakeable respect for, and love of, the land. When your livelihood directly depends upon healthy soil and ample water, you do what it takes to preserve it. To squander natural resources or harm the environment would make no sense, especially when you live where you work. It also would be against the law.

Another binding trait is an immense pride in their product. While there are innumerable state and federal laws that ensure food safety, no one cares more about the quality of the end product than does the family who raised it. This goes for nonedible crops, too, like nursery products, hay, grass seed, and Christmas trees.

The unparalleled commitment to quality has elevated the international status of Oregon agriculture, and

consumers around the world seek out Oregon-grown blueberries, wheat, and grassstraw.

Love of lifestyle A third shared value is love of the lifestyle. Talk with farmers and ranchers about what they like most about their jobs and you’ll hear “being your own boss,” “being outdoors,” “growing something from nothing,” and “every day is different.”

This year, farmers and ranchers were celebrated March 22, designated as National Ag Day, but we at Oregon Farm Bureau urge you to remember and thank farmers and ranchers all year long.

Anne Marie Moss is the communications director at the Oregon Farm Bureau.

She may be reached at annemarie@oregonfb.org or at 503-399-1701.

Voices of the Community Diplomacy over war With a war raging in Ukraine, it’s heartening that the Iran nuclear deal (JCPOA) talks are winding down with a hopeful return to the deal that was established in 2015 by a diverse group of international diplomats.

Trump’s “maximum pressure” approach has been a disastrous non-starter, as Iran resumed enriching uranium and is closer to a nuclear weapon now than it ever was.

A new deal will show that the U.S. is serious about restoring our credibility on the global stage and committed to solving foreign policy challenges through diplomacy—not war.

I am thankful that Sens.

Jeff Merkley and Ron Wyden, and Rep. Suzanne Bonamici supported the deal in 2015 and I’ve urged them to support the JCPOA renewal.

Despite complex pathways to peace in the region, this one is a no-brainer that will help reduce the threat of

nuclear war now and in the future.

Alison Weeks Scappoose

What about our country?

For three weeks now the American public has been inundated with the Russian/ Ukrainian war by its public media outlets. It is extremely depressing to witness a larger county destroy a smaller country but what about our own country?

Our bridges did not get bombed during World War II but now are collapsing because of age and poor maintenance. Our roads and bridges which were designed for freight trucks carrying 50,000 pounds and daily traffic of 75,000 vehicles are now carrying 179,000 vehicles daily and 53 foot trailers with 80,000 pounds.

Complete communities are designed around the mobility of privately owned

vehicles used for commuting, yet today there is not enough parking for those that commute. Corporations continue to build their facilities in larger cities with limited parking. We may not have refugees, but how many of our fellow citizens are living under blue tarps?

One sobering thought. An average Russian missile has six nuclear warheads. Just one missile could eliminate Portland, Beaverton, Salem, Eugene, and Bend Metro areas plus destroy the Bonneville Dam which may collapse the Columbia Gorge. Within a 15 minute interval Oregon would lose 60% of its medical care facilities, 60% of its electrical generation, and 80% of its progressive liberal political base.

It is an election year.

Should we be focusing on things that are out of our control or those that directly affect our citizens? It’s too easy to get distracted and take our eyes off the big picture.

Joe Turner Columbia City

Columbian Toastmasters Promoting positive learning and leadership through public speaking. Anyone is welcome!

Meeting virtually via Zoom from 12-1 p.m. every Thursday. Zoom meeting: https:// zoom.us/j/8222962563.

Webpage: https://6421. toastmastersclubs.org. Social 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, to chronicleclassifieds@countrymedia. net, or call 503-397-0116.

The Chronicle The Chronicle (USPS 610-380) is published weekly by Country Media, Inc. 1805 S. Columbia Blvd., P.O. Box 1153 St. Helens, Oregon 97051 Periodicals postage paid at St. Helens, OR 97051

human resources leads, risk analysts, and 24/7/365 optimists at the same time.

Most farmers can’t afford to hire consultants to do these things for them; they simply figure them out and do it themselves.

SUBSCRIPTION RATES: One month in county: $8 One month out of county: $10 One year in county: $60 One year out of county: $80

CONTACT US • Phone: (503) 397-0116 • Fax: (503) 397-4093 Website: www.thechronicleonline.com • Editorial: chroniclenews@countrymedia.net ADVERTISE WITH US: Display ads: chronicleads@countrymedia.net Classified ads: chronicleclassifieds@countrymedia.net FOLLOW US • facebook.com/sthelenschronicle or twitter.com/shchronicle

Weekly Online Poll

Last Week’s Results

What is your favorite spring activity?

Did you delay any medical appointments due to the pandemic?

Taking walks or hikes Seeing the cherry blossoms Planting a garden Playing sports

60% Yes

40% No

Vote online at thechronicleonline.com Editorial policy: Opinions expressed on this page are independent of The Chronicle views and are solely those of the writers expressing them.

Letters policy: This newspaper’s letters to the editor are limited to a maximum of 250 words and will be edited for grammar, spelling and

blatant inaccuracies. Unsubstantiated or irresponsible allegations, or personal attacks on any individual, will not be published. Letters containing details presented as facts rather than opinions must include their sources. Writers are limited to one published letter per month.

All submissions must include the author’s full name, local street ad-

dress and telephone number (only the name and city of residence will be published). By submitting a letter, writers also grant permission for them to be posted online. Opinions expressed on this page are the writer’s alone and do not represent the opinion of the newspaper or its parent company, Country Media, Inc.

A5

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Wednesday, March 23, 2022

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Frank E. Lohrke

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Scappoose

Frank Edwin Lohrke, 72, of Scappoose, died March 2, 2022, at home with family.

Frank was born May 9, 1949, in St. Helens to Louie and Corrine Lohrke (Heikkila).

He was raised on the Coos River and had a childhood with freedom reminiscent of Huckleberry Finn’s. His days were spent hunting, fishing, camping, and floating home-built rafts up and down the river. His mother’s bed sheets were not safe when he needed a sail. He accessed a favorite fishing hole by outrunning an ornery bull and jumping to safety through a fence.

Frank joined the Army at 17 and served as a Combat Engineer in postwar Korea and wartime Vietnam. He earned the rank of Specialist Five and served valiantly earning two Army Commendation medals for his actions during enemy engagement.

He returned to civilian life in Coos Bay and soon joined the Union of Operating Engineers, Local 701, where he became a heavy equipment operator on several important northwest construction

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projects, including construction of Interstate 205 and expanding Portland’s light rail. He began working at the Scappoose Lone Star rock plant in 1988. However, the company busted the union in 1992. Frank refused to work for a nonunion outfit, so he began commuting long distances again until he retired in 2011. Frank was known for his hard work and ability to precisely handle all sorts of heavy equipment in difficult situations.

In 1971 Frank met Rosemary Molony of Scappoose, and they were married in

1973. Frank and Rosemary built a rural home outside of Scappoose in 1979, where he raised his family and lived the rest of his life.

Frank was always dependable, ready for a good laugh from a joke or story and was a good friend who went out of his way to help others, whether he knew them or not. He enjoyed an annual deer hunting trip from the time he was a child and was known to leave an occasional job if it stood between him and hunting with his father, brothers, family, and friends. Frank

spent most summers cutting firewood and enjoyed drives in the woods and trips around the dike. He was a devoted husband, father, and grandfather and is sorely missed by all who knew him.

Frank is survived by his wife Rosemary; son Jesse (Elizabeth) of Springfield; daughter Angela of Scappoose; brothers, Louie and Jack Lohrke (Julie) of Coos Bay, Serena Rice; grandchildren, Alexander and Allison Smith, and Fletcher Lohrke; nephews, Jacob and Joshua Lohrke; many cousins, including Frank Lohrke, Edith Young (Hammond), Jane Johnson, Sandi Wilson (Burgess), and Clarinda Clark; and brothers-in-law Dave and Dan Molony.

Frank is preceded in death by his parents; parentsin-law, George and Martha Molony; nephew George Molony; cousins, Bob and Mark Burgess, Ed and Vernon Hammond, and Linda Lovell.

A celebration of life will be held at 1 p.m. on Fri., March 25, 2022 at Columbia Funeral Home in St. Helens.

Phillip Michael Jauron

C11071

Sept. 10, 1946 ~ Feb. 17, 2022

C11071

Phillip Michael Jauron, aged 75, passed away at his home in Hillsboro, Oregon on Feb. 17, 2022.

He was born one of seven children to Mary Jauron nee McGilvra and Raymond Jauron on Sept. 10, 1946.

He was raised in St. Helens, Oregon and attended St. Helens High School, class of 1964. He was drafted into Vietnam, serving his country proudly as a young man.

Upon returning from Vietnam Phil married Claudia McCall in 1968.

Together they had three children: Wessley Wayne Jauron, Donna Anita Jauron and Jeanne Desire Jauron.

They divorced in 1976.

Phil married Joy Johnson in July 1979, they had two children: Pia Oline Jauron and Kajra Rose Jauron.

Phil worked in the Industrial Pump industry

most of his adult life. There is not a pump big or small in the western United States that he did not know.

Phil was loved and adored by many. Always having a fun story to tell and loving to “drop in” for a visit with friends and family whenever possible.

His is survived by his children, Pia Jauron, (her children: Cora, Hazel, Warren, Gretchen and George), Jeanne Jauron (her children, Zachary, Xander, Brody and Victoria), Donna Jauron (her children, Brennan, Ethan his wife Grace, Hannah and Wyatt also great granddaughter Elyannah) and Wess Jauron (his children, Adam and Brennan);

younger sister Trisha Jauron; and wife Joy Johnson.

His daughter Kajra Rose Jauron preceded him in death, as did five of his siblings, Bill, Francis, Larry, Caroline and Paul.

Phil’s children loved him most of all, for them the world seems a smaller place with him gone.

Please come and celebrate Phil’s life with us and his children, Wess, Donna, Jeanne and Pia. His children wish to invite you to celebrate his life from 11 a.m. – 1 p.m. on April 9, 2022 at the Yankton Grange, 33935 Pittsburgh Rd., St. Helens, OR. Located right next to the Yankton Grade School.

Robert Dennis Edwards Feb. 1, 1928 ~ Feb. 25, 2022

Robert Dennis “Dan” Edwards, 94, a lifelong resident of the St. Helens area, passed away peacefully at home on Feb. 25, 2022.

Robert Dennis Edwards was born Feb. 1, 1928, in Portland, Oregon, the fourth of six children born to John and Martha (Johnston) Edwards. Known as Dan from childhood, he was raised on the outskirts of St. Helens in McNulty and attended the McNulty School and Scappoose High School.

Dan met Charity Grace “Cheri” Cade at the local skating rink, and they were married on March 26, 1946 in Hillsboro. Together they raised their two children, Sharon Elmira and Robert

Dennis Edwards Jr., in St. Helens. They joined the First United Methodist Church.

Dan began working at the Fir-Tex plant at the age of 16 and after nine years began working at the Paper Mill

where he worked until retirement.

He enjoyed fishing, locksmithing, old cars and car shows, going to casinos in Reno and other places, and time spent at Ocean Park, Washington. Following Cheri’s passing in 1997 he shared a special friendship with sister-in-law Phyllis and they enjoyed many cruises together and looked after one another at home. He also enjoyed time spent with his large family.

Dan spent the last two years with Sharon and Ernie and passed away at their home on Feb. 25, 2022 at the age of 94. He is survived by his companion Phyllis Cade; daughter and son-

in-law, Sharon and Ernie Zimbrick of St. Helens; eight grandchildren; 16 greatgrandchildren; 10 greatgreat-grandchildren; brother Ray Edwards of St. Helens; sister Ora Roby of Tacoma, Washington; and numerous nieces, nephews and friends.

He was preceded in death by his wife of 51 years; son Rob Edwards; his parents; brother Johnny Edwards; sister Meta Urie; and greatgrandson Keenan Foster Williams. A viewing was held from 2 p.m. – 5 p.m. on Fri., March 4, 2022 at Columbia Funeral Home. A graveside service was held on at 1 p.m. on Sat., March 5, 2022 at Bethany Memorial Cemetery in Warren.

Police Reports The police blotter relates to the public record of incidents as reported by law enforcement agencies.

For specific details about cases listed, contact the appropriate law enforcement agency.

All individuals arrested or charged with a crime are presumed innocent until proven guilty. Information printed is preliminary and subject to change.

St. Helens Police March 7 • Police arrested a 38-year-old male on aggravated assault, burglary-business, trespassing

and obstructing government administration at the 400 block of 18th Street.

March 8 • A 51-year-old man was arrested on DUI-alcohol near West Street and 13th Street.

March 9 • Police responded to a theft call at the 2000 block of Gable Road.

• Police responded to a burglary of a business near the 5000 block of Columbia River Highway.

• Police responded to a burglary of a business at 1600 block of Rail Road Ave. March 10 • Police responded to a burglary at the 50000 block of Old Portland Road.

March 11 • Officers arrested a subject near Columbia River Highway and Bennet Road on DUIalcohol.

March 12 • Police responded to a fire in the 400 block of Port Avenue.

March 14 • Police responded to an elder abuse call in the 700 block of Columba Boulevard.

March 15 • Officers arrested a 37-yearold subject in the 50000 block of Columbia River Highway for DUII-alcohol.

March 16 • Police responded to a drug offense at the 100 block of N 18th Street.

Columbia County’s trusted local news source

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Wednesday, March 23, 2022

Classifieds Listings are updated daily at thechronicleonline.com

150

502

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Misc Services

Help Wanted

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Cans and Bottles If you have cans and bottles that you would like to get rid of call Steve the Can Man at 971-813-9257.

Will pick up.

www.columbia911. com/careers or by calling 503366-6978. Online applications will be accepted until 11:45pm on March 31st, 2022.

hour.

Deadline: 4/8/22 Equal Opportunity Employer.

tagonal game table, Curio cabinet, household goods.

No early birds.

HELP WANTED

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Dental Hygienist Healthy Smiles of Scappoose is hiring a Dental Hygienist. See the full job description in our color advertisement on A9.

To apply, please send a cover letter and an up-to-date resume to: jessica @healthysmilesofscappoose.com

Car wash Looking for help at the local Carwash in St Helens and Scappoose. Would be a perfect job for a retired individual or student. Please call 503-791-7113 to set up an interview.

Lost & Found

Found chain saw Contact SHPD to identify, 503-397-3333.

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Dispatchers Columbia 9-1-1 Communications District (C911CD) is conducting a hiring process for fulltime Dispatchers (Communications Specialists). Additional information and job description can be found on our website at

Immediate Opening Shipping/ Receiving/ Sewing

Part time 6-Noon, M-Th. Apply in person only. 33550 SE Santosh St. Scappoose, OR 97056

Looking for help at the local Fast Lube and Oil in Scappoose We are a locally owned family business and we are growing. Looking to hire all positions.

Please call 503791-7113 to set up an interview.

The City of St. Helens is hiring Seasonal Parks Maintenance Worker Temporary position. See website for details. www. sthelensoregon. gov. $14.00 per

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Administrative Assistant/Bookkeeper for St. Frederic Catholic Church 18 hours per week.

Knowledge of Quickbooks necessary. English language skills essential with Spanish skills language helpful.

Send resume to: pdahlin@archdpdx. org. or call 503-397-0148, ext. 6.

Please stop by the office at 53990 West Lane Road in Scappoose, or email your resume to jason@tftconstruction.net.

Asphalt Paving Division: Laborers, Asphalt Raker, Roller Operator Excavation Division: General Laborers, Heavy Equipment operators, Pipe – Layers, Pipe – Laborers Trucking Division: Dump Truck Drivers – Truck & Pup and Super solos

CALL SALEM 971-600-4327

Classified Ads Deadline:

Mondays by noon.

Late submissions may not make the paper.

Need a job? check the classifieds online at www.thechronicleonline.com to find your perfect job offer

Head Start Needs YOU! Community Action Team Head Start is hiring in Columbia County!!

Local county news online Keep up to date on local stories, events, ads, and counci news by visiting thechronicleonline.com.

VIEW OUR CURRENT RENTAL PROPERTIES AT:

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503-397-0116 thechronicleonline.com 1805 Columbia Blvd.

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TFT construction Inc. has multiple openings we are looking to fill. We offer competitive pay, Health insurance and 401K.

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We provide: • Medical, dental, vision and life insurance benefits • Personal and sick leave • Balanced work schedules • A culturally respectful work environment We have career opportunities for a Teacher, Assistant Teacher, Cook, and Custodian.

Contact JoAnne Dodge at 503-397-4114, jdodge@nworheadstart.org; or Dawn Crawford at 503-556-3736, dcrawford@nworheadstart.org

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HOSPITAL From Page A1

Pacheco added that county residents will receive updates at weekly Columbia County Board of Commissioner meetings, through traditional and

SCHOOL From Page A1 final phase of the project.

Aguilar said reworking the school’s design arose out of necessity.

“When I started here four years ago, we only had 35 students,” Aguilar said.

“The following year, we had 28, and the third year during COVID, we had 52 students.

(Now) we are at 78. So, we are using our cafeteria as our classroom.”

Aguilar said that her primary motivator for the project was to have all K-8 students housed in the same building.

“We have one class in the church building,” Aguilar said. “I feel like they are so far away from everyone.

So (we will be) demolishing everything we have on that side and then building a new classroom.”

social media updates, and from the Columbia County website concerning the hospital study.

“Community feedback is welcomed during public meetings and via phone or email.,” Pacheco said.

“Regular town hall meetings will be scheduled, providing community input opportuni-

ties if the project gets positive forward movement.”

The Chronicle also reached out to Columbia County Commissioner Margaret Maguder asking the following question.

Given what we understand was a failed effort to establish a hospital district in Columbia County a

Advertise your garage sale in the paper and online for only $10 for up to 14 lines!

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few years ago and public concerns about millions of dollars allegedly “unaccounted for,” how will you help county residents and businesses operators understand how the county will carefully manage this latest effort in a transparent approach?

“The Board of Commis-

sioners is currently gathering information to see if there is a pathway to siting a hospital within Columbia County,” Marguder said.

“The feasibility study is a very preliminary step in the overall process of securing a hospital for our county.

If the process does move forward, the Board will take

the appropriate steps to ensure that the community is involved, has oversight, and is provided with transparency.”

Follow this developing story at thechronicleonline. com and in the Wednesday print editions of The Chronicle.

Capital campaign The school needs $1.3 million in cash to launch phase one and has secured about 20% of the funding, according to Aguilar.

“Once we have the money, we will start right away,” she said. “It takes a while to get the building permit. We will have all the architects and engineers come together. So, it might take a while.”

Construction for the project could begin by the summer, Aguilar said, if everything goes accordingly to plan.

“They (the contractor) said that the first phase will take eight months to build,” she said, conjecturing, “(If) we are building in that timespan, we will have another eight months.

It could be a three or fouryear project.”

SAS holds fundraisers such as Jogathon in May for school improvement proj-

Jeremy C. Ruark / The Chronicle

Zoe Gottlieb / The Chronicle

The Scappoose Adventist School is at 54825 Columbia River Highway.

This shows the playground of the Scappoose Adventist School.

ects, but Aguilar said most contributions come from private donors who choose to remain anonymous.

Aguilar emphasized that what separates Scappoose Adventist School from other institutions is its aim to support one-onone instruction with a more balanced 20-to-1 student-to-

not have a space for that.”

Scappoose Adventist School (SAS), situated on 54825 Columbia River Highway in Scappoose, has served the local community since 1935, providing quality Christian education to the children of Columbia County, according to the school’s website, which

teacher ratio.

“We are hoping to get more donors to help invest in the future of our children,” Aguilar said. “Not all kids thrive in a bigger classroom. They needed a smaller-scale classroom, so we want to provide that to our community. But if we don’t start building, we will

also states that SAS offers hands-on, developmentally appropriate programs for preschool through eighthgrade students.

Donations to SAS are tax-deductible. For more information or to donate, visit www.sasonline.org, or call 503-543-6939.

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Wednesday, March 23, 2022

Public Notices

PROTECTING YOUR RIGHT TO KNOW

CH22-1056

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING Monday April 4, 2022 NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that Wayne Mayo on behalf of Clark & Judie Tenney has submitted an application for a Variance. The request is to reduce the setback from 30 feet to 15 feet.

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the application for Brianna Dickerson-Scrivner to site a second dwelling on the property, for the care of a relative, has been appealed to the planning commission. NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that Cascade Kelly Holding LLC has submitted an application for a Design Review for Bioethanol production, fuels transloading, fuels storage, vacant, vehicle circulation and storm water management. SAID PUBLIC HEARING will be held before the Columbia County Planning Commission on

Monday, April 4, 2022 starting at 6:30 p.m. During the COVID-19 global pandemic, the Columbia County Planning Commission will be hosting their public hearing via online webinar. Please use the links below if you wish to participate in the public meeting. April Planning Commission Meeting Mon, Apr 4, 2022 6:30 PM - 9:00 PM (PDT) Please join my meeting from your computer, tablet or smartphone. https:// meet.goto.com/738737013 You can also dial in using your phone. United States (Toll Free): 1 866 899 4679 United States: +1 (571) 317-3116 Access Code: 738737-013 Get the app now and be ready when your first meeting starts: https://meet. goto.com/install If you have any questions or concerns

regarding access to the meeting or need accommodation, please call the Land Development Services office at (503) 397-1501. The criteria to be used in deciding the request will be found in some or all of the following documents and laws, as revised from time to time: Oregon Revised Statutes ORS 197.763; Oregon Administrative Rules; Columbia County Comprehensive Plan; Columbia County Zoning Ordinance.

The specific criteria applicable to this request is listed and evaluated in the staff report. A copy of the application, all documents and evidence relied upon by the applicant, and the staff report are available for inspection at no cost and will be provided at reasonable cost, at the Land Development Services

office, at least 7 days prior to the Planning Commission hearing. Written comments on the issue can be submitted via email to Planning@ columbiacountyor.gov or you can send comments via U.S. Mail to Columbia County, Department of Land Development Services, 230 Strand Street, St. Helens, OR 97051.

If additional documents or evidence are provided in support of the application, prior to or during the hearing, any party shall be entitled to a continuance of the hearing to allow review of the new evidence. If a participant requests a continuance before the conclusion of the evidentiary hearing, the record shall remain open for at least seven days after the hearing.

At each hearing, the applicant has the burden of presenting

substantial evidence showing that the application meets all of the applicable criteria.

Following presentation of the staff report, the applicant and other persons in favor of the application will be allowed to address the commission, explaining how the evidence submitted meets the applicable criteria. Following the applicant’s presentation, any person in opposition to the application may present evidence and argument against the application. The applicant will then have the opportunity to rebut any evidence or arguments presented in opposition. After the presentation of evidence and arguments, the public hearing record will be either left open or closed by the Planning Commission. The Commission will then make a tenta-

tive decision to be followed by approval of a written order and a statement of findings and conclusions supporting the decision, which will be mailed to all parties at a later date. The Commission may, at its discretion, continue the hearing from time to time at the request of the parties or on its own motion as necessary to afford substantial justice and comply with the law. Additional information about this application may be obtained from the Planning Division of the Land Development Services Department, at (503) 397-1501 or you can go to the County website www.columbiacountyor.gov/ departments/LandDevelopment/Planning. March 23, 2022 THE PLANNING COMMISSION Shawn Stewart, Co-Chairman

CH22-1592

In the Matter of Directing the Sale of Real Property Acquired by Columbia County NOTICE OF SALE BY AUCTION OF COUNTY-OWNED REAL PROPERTY Clear Page Clear Page

Pursuant to Order No. the required minimum price. buyers should review all sale Form adopted by the Notice of Budget Committee Meeting 6-2022, The specific terms and condiinformation carefully. The Form Notice ofOregon Budget Committee Department of Revenue Meeting OR-LB-NBC Board of County Commistions for the sale (the “Terms sale Terms and Conditions Oregon Department of Revenue OR-LB-NBC sioners for Columbia County and Conditions”), along must be accepted by anyone Use this noticeI ifwill public comment will be taken sale at thisinformation, meeting.

A on March 2, 2022, with other bidding on a property. Sale A Use this notice if public comment will be taken at this meeting. offer certain real propincluding tax maps, Assessor staff will be available from 9 erty acquired Columbia information summaries and, _______________________, a.m. to 9:45 a.m. atOregon, the sale A public meetingby of the Budget Committee of the ______________________________ State of to (District name) (County) A public for meeting the Budget Committee of the ______________________________ State of Oregon, County saleof on Friday earnest money agreement , _______________________, location to receive signedto (District name) (County) April 1,the 2022, at July 1, 20_____ forms,to June can 30, be20_____, viewed at held theat ________________________________________ Terms and Condition accepdiscuss budgetbeginning for the fiscal year will be (Location) discuss the budget for lobby the fiscal of year July 1, 20_____ June 30, 20_____, will be held at ________________________________________ 10:00 a.m. in the Boardto of Commissioners tance forms.

Key Terms and a.m.

(Location) a.m. the_____________________________________.

Columbia County Justice TheOffice, Columbia County Condition of the sale include, p.m. meeting will take place on__________________________at __________________________. p.m.The (Address) _____________________________________.

The meeting will take place Facility located at 901 Port Courthouse, 230on__________________________at Strand (Date) but are__________________________. not limited to: 1.

(Address) (Date) Ave, in St. Helens, Oregon.

St. Room 338, St. Helens, Properties will be offered The purpose of the meeting is to receive the budget message and to receive comment from the public on the budget.

The purpose the meeting isgeneral to receive the budget message to receive comment from thethrough public on the budget.

Exhibit “A”of provides Oregon, orand electronically oral auction in the This is a public meeting where deliberation of the Budget Committee will take place. Any person may appear at the meeting and discuss information about thethe propat Budget https://www.columbialisted Exhibit “A”, Thisproposed is a publicprograms meeting where deliberation of the Committee will take place. Any person order may appear at theon meeting and discuss the with Budget Committee. the proposed programs the Budget Committee. erties or groups ofwith propercountyor.gov/departments/ with no certainty as to the the budget documentbeing may be inspected or obtained on or after __________________________at ______________________________, tiesAA copy (theof “Properties”) BoardofCommissionersOftiming of a property-specific (Location) (Date) copy of the budget document may be inspected or obtained on or after __________________________at ______________________________, (Location) will be (Date) offered at the sale, including fice/surplus-property a link a.m. a.m.sale. 2. Properties a.m. a.m. p.m. p.m. between the hours of ______________________________ and ________________________________. location, the County Assesto the County’s Surplus sold to the highest qualified p.m. and ________________________________. p.m. between the hours of ______________________________ sor’s real market values, and Property page. Prospective bidder for cash in accor-

dance with a non-negotiable earnest money agreement that will be required for each sale. 3. All Properties offered for sale by the Sheriff will be sold AS-IS without covenants or warranties of any kind, subject to any municipal liens, easements and encumbrances of record.

Conveyance will be by standard County quitclaim deed, which can be viewed at the County offices or online as provided above. The quitclaim deed will contain specific reservation to the County that should be reviewed carefully by prospective buyers. 4. Apparent High

Bidders must deposit 15% of the minimum bid amount on the day of the sale, with the remainder due by April 21, 2022, or as otherwise specified in the applicable earnest money agreement. Deposits must be submitted in the form of cash, money order or cashier’s check. 5. No elected or appointed County office or employee, their family members, or intermediaries may purchase from the County, directly or indirectly through this auction.

6. In the event that there is a conflict between anything in this notice and the Terms and Conditions, the Terms

and Conditions will prevail.

Pre-sale questions should be directed to Jacyn Normine, County Board of Commissioners Office & Lands Administrator at jacyn. normine@ columbiacountyor.gov. Land use or code violation questions related to the Properties should be directed to: Land Development Services at 503-3971501 for Properties outside of city limits or to applicable city planning departments for Properties located within city limits. Dated this 3rd day of March, 2022. By: Brian E. Pixley, Columbia County Sheriff

150-504-063 (Rev. 11-19-21) 150-504-063 (Rev. 11-19-21)

CH22-1053

CH22-1055

Form Form OR-LB-NBC OR-LB-NBC

B B

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE STATE OF OREGON FOR THE COUNTY OF COLUMBIA

Notice of Budget Committee Meeting Notice ofOregon Budget Committee Department of Revenue Meeting Oregon Department of Revenue

Use this notice if public comment will be taken at a later meeting.

Use this notice if public comment will be taken at a later meeting.

Columbia Columbia SWCD A public meeting of the Budget Committee of the ____________________________ State of Oregon, , _________________________, Columbia Columbia SWCD (District name) (County) A public meeting of the Budget Committee of the ____________________________ State of Oregon, , _________________________, (District name)

(County)

23 , will be held at ___________________________________________.

22 to June 30, 20_____ 35285 Millard Road, St. Helens 97051 on the budget for the fiscal year July 1, 20_____ 23 , will be held at ___________________________________________.

22 to June 30, 20_____ 35285 Millard Road, St. Helens 97051 (Location) on the budget for the fiscal year July 1, 20_____ (Location)

a.m. a.m.

5:00 April 07, 2022 p.m.

The meeting will take place on ________________________________ at ____________________.

5:00 April (Date) 07, 2022 p.m.

The meeting will take place on ________________________________ at ____________________.

(Date)

The purpose of the meeting is to receive the budget message. This is a public meeting where deliberation of the Budget Committee The take purpose of the meeting is to receive the budget message. This is a public meeting where deliberation of the Budget Committee will place. will take place.

An additional, separate meeting of the Budget Committee will be held to take public comment. Any person may appear at An additional, separate of the Budget Committee be held to take public comment.

Any person may will appear at the meeting and discussmeeting the proposed programs with the will Budget Committee.

The meeting for public comment be on the meeting and discuss the proposed programs with the Budget Committee. The meeting for public comment will be on a.m. a.m.

p.m. held at___________________________________________________ May 18, 2022 35285 Millard Road, St, Helens 97051 4:00 ________________________________ at ___________________________, p.m. held at___________________________________________________ May(Date) 18, 2022 35285 Millard Road, St, Helens 97051 4:00 (Location) ________________________________ at ___________________________, (Date)

(Location)

April 08, 2022 A copy of the budget document may be inspected or obtained on or after __________________________________________________ April (Date) 08, 2022 A copy of the budget document may be inspected or obtained on or after __________________________________________________ a.m. a.m.

(Date)

a.m. a.m.

p.m. and __________________________. p.m.

4:30 8:30 35285 Millard Road, St. Helens 97051 at ____________________________________________, between the hours of ______________________ p.m. and __________________________. p.m.

4:30 8:30 35285 Millard Road, St. Helens 97051 (Location) at ____________________________________________, between the hours of ______________________ (Location)

150-504-063 (Rev. 11-19-21) 150-504-063 (Rev. 11-19-21)

CH22-1050

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING Pursuant to ORS 477.250, notice is hereby given that a public hearing will be held at the Oregon Department of Forestry, Forest Grove District Office, 801 Gales Creek Road, in Forest Grove, Oregon, on Monday, April 4, 2022, at 3:00 pm, to receive from any interested persons sugges-

tions, advice, objections or remonstrance’s to the proposed budget for the Forest Protection District. A copy of the tentative budget for the Forest Protection District may be inspected during normal working hours. To ensure the broadest range of services to individuals with disabilities, persons with

EASTER

Epperly said she is new to the event, having joined the board of directors in 2018, but, “Once you start doing it, (mEGGa) kind of sucks you in.”

From Page A1 the different ones,” Epperly said. “Then they turn that sheet in, and we’re going to do a random drawing for winners.”

The Chronicle asked Epperly why she believes mEGGa has become a deeply ingrained tradition in Columbia County.

“Evelyn Hansen is the mastermind who came up with the event, and this is our 22nd year that this event has been going on,” she said. “She spearheaded it for a long time by herself. Her main thing was she wanted to have an event that was free that families could come and do,” acknowledging, “It grew over time.”

disabilities requiring special arrangements should contact Renae Shippey, at 503-3597424 or 503-530-0271, or by email at renae.shippey@ odf.oregon.gov at least two working days in advance of the scheduled hearing. OREGON DEPARTMENT OF FORESTRY, CAL MUKUMOTO, STATE FORESTER

Probate Department In the Matter of the Estate of John Raymond Joy, Deceased. No. 22PB01921 NOTICE TO INTERESTED PERSONS Notice is hereby given that Nancy E. Harris has been appointed personal representative of this estate. All persons having claims against the estate are hereby required

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE STATE OF OREGON FOR THE COUTY OF COLUMBIA NINETEENTH JUDICIAL DISTRICT In the Matter of the Estate of KAREN J. WOLF, Deceased. No. 22PB01281 NOTICE TO INTERESTED PERSONS NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the undersigned has been appointed personal representative. All persons having claims against the estate are required to present them,

Epperly needs around 15 volunteers for this year’s

be affected by the proceedings may obtain additional information from the records of the Court, the personal representative, or the lawyers for the personal representative, Amanda G. Proujan. Dated and first published on March 16, 2022. Amanda G. Proujan, Personal Representative.

Late submissions are not guaranteed to make it into the paper.

Courtesy photo

Volunteers needed

with vouchers attached, to the undersigned personal representative at Law Office of Amanda G. Proujan, PLLC, 1315 14th Avenue, Longview, WA 98632, within four months after the date of first publication of this notice, or the claims will be barred. All persons whose rights may

The Public Notice deadline is Fridays by noon.

The traditional mEGGa Egg Hunt has attracted thousands of people to the Columbia County Fairgrounds in St. Helens each Easter season.

be able to do with the other kids are doing but in a protected environment for them,” she said.

additional information from the records of the court, the personal representative, or the attorney for the personal representative. Dated and first published: March 23, 2022. MARK A. GORDON, P.C., OSB No. 812424 Attorney for Personal Representative, 1677 St. Helens Street, St. Helens, Oregon 97051, 503-397-9066.

CH22-1052

All-inclusive Epperly said one of her goals in the coming years is to make mEGGa more inclusive for kids with special needs.

Debbie Ritthaler, special education volunteer and coorganizer of mEGGa, is in charge of the special needs field areas of the mEGGa hunt.

Ritthaler said she and her husband gain a lot of satisfaction from watching kids with different abilities join in on the fun.

“It’s just awesome to see them be able to participate and

to present their claims, with proper vouchers, within four (4) months after the date of first publication of this Notice, as stated below, to the personal representative at 1677 St. Helens Street, St. Helens, Oregon 97051 or the claims may be barred. All persons whose rights are affected by the proceedings may obtain

mEGGa Egg Hunt to fulfill various duties, including greeting and saying goodbye to guests at the fairgrounds, as well as supervising the egg hunting grounds.

She said finding volunteers has been challenging.

“We get a lot of people that

want to put the candy out. A lot of people just want to show up the day of and put candy in the fields,” she said. “Finding volunteers is probably the hardest part of all of it.”

Each year mEGGa Egg Hunt is supported by a consistent network of sponsors, Epperly said, allowing children and families to attend free of charge.

According to Epperly, the egg hunt is an opportunity for working parents to “have a fun time and not have to worry.”

“Lots of times parents are on a budget and they will avoid events if they think, ‘Oh, my kids are going to ask to go on that ride and we can’t afford to do that.’ This kind of thing makes sure that they come and that they feel comfortable,” she said. “They don’t have to worry.”

Other hunt locations Clatskanie Kiwanis Club will host their Annual Easter Egg Hunt, which was canceled in 2020 due to the pandemic, for three separate age groups ages 2-5, 6-8, and 9 and up at the Clatskanie High School Field at 10 a.m.

April 16.

Rainier Eagles #4022, a local branch of a national charity, will hold its version of the event, the City Wide Easter Egg Hunt, also at 10 a.m. April 16.

The mEGGa Egg Hunt will take place at the Columbia County Fairgrounds, located on 58892 Saulser Road in St. Helens.

For more information, call 971-312-4743.

Columbia County’s trusted local news source

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Wednesday, March 23, 2022

Job vacancies in Northwest Oregon ERIK KNODER Chronicle Guest Article

Northwest Oregon had approximately 7,311 job vacancies in the private sector on an average day in 2021.

This was an increase from an average of 2,255 vacancies in 2020. The industry with the most vacancies was leisure and hospitality; it had an average of 1,957 job vacancies on any given day.

These estimates for job vacancies came from a survey of 1,500 private-sector employers with two or more employees in Northwest Oregon during the year.

Point-in-time surveys The 7,311 vacancies are estimated from point-in-time surveys. The survey is mailed

to employers each quarter and respondents are asked about vacancies they have at that time. The responses from the four quarterly surveys were combined to make an estimate of the average number of vacancies during the year.

To put the average of 1,957 vacancies in leisure and hospitality in more context, the industry in Northwest Oregon had an estimated average annual employment of 14,780 in 2021. So, the industry was employing roughly a little less than 90% of the number of people that it would have preferred in 2021.

Additionally, the Census Bureau estimates that 4,226 people were hired in the industry in 2021, an average of nearly 12 hires per day.

Two other large industries in Northwest Oregon were also near the top of the

Metro Creative Connection

The 2021 vacancy survey reinforces other research showing Northwest Oregon job seekers can benefit by getting additional education and training.

list for having the most job vacancies. Healthcare, social assistance, and retail trade took the number two and

three positions. Healthcare and social assistance averaged 1,908 openings throughout 2021. Retail trade averaged

Avian influenza advisory

postsecondary training showed the importance of getting some education or training beyond high school.

The average wage for vacancies requiring postsecondary training was $23.52 per hour, nearly all were permanent positions, and 81% were for full-time jobs.

The reinforcement

The 2021 vacancy survey reinforces other research that shows that Northwest Oregon job seekers can benefit by getting additional education and training at local community colleges, Jobs Corps Centers, and apprenticeships.

Erik Knoder is a regional economist with the Oregon Employment Department. He may be reached at 541-3515595.

Background

STAFF REPORT chroniclenews@countrymedia.net

The World Organization for Animal Health has confirmed a bald eagle found dead in British Columbia, Canada tested positive for the highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) Eurasian strain H5N1.

The designation of low or highly pathogenic avian influenza refers to the potential for these viruses to kill chickens. The detection is the first in North America’s Pacific Flyway, since 2015. HPAI is a highly contagious, deadly disease in domestic poultry.

According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control (CDC) and Prevention, HPAI detections do not present an immediate public health concern. No human cases of these avian influenza viruses have been detected in the United States.

“The best protection for birds are owners who practice effective biosecurity,” Oregon Department of Agriculture (ODA) State Veterinarian Dr. Ryan Scholz said. “We must be vigilant and strict with our biosecurity practices especially for backyard flocks, as well as educated on when and how to report potential avian influenza deaths. Our preparation could reduce the risk of infection among poultry and prevent or limit the impact of HPAI introduction in Oregon.”

The British Columbia detection occurred March 2.

Earlier this year, the United

1,005 openings. These industries are among the largest in Northwest Oregon, so it’s no surprise that they had the most job vacancies in 2021.

The survey also revealed that the occupations with the most vacancies were maids and housekeepers (mostly in lodging); personal care aides; retail salespersons; and cashiers. Most job vacancies were for relatively lowpaying positions. Despite the tight labor market employers were offering less than $15 per hour for 38% of all vacancies. Only 6% of vacancies were offering $25 per hour or more.

Nearly 75% of job vacancies had either no educational requirement at all or required only a high school diploma.

These vacancies also tended to offer lower pay.

Vacancies that required

Courtesy from the USDA

The detection is the first in North America’s Pacific Flyway, since 2015.

HPAI is a highly contagious, deadly disease in domestic poultry.

States Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) confirmed HPAI in wild waterfowl in the Atlantic Flyway, on the east coast. USDA APHIS has also confirmed HPAI infections in 16 states including both backyard and commercial flocks with new detections announced every week.

ODA is working closely with USDA APHIS, other federal partners, neighboring states, and commercial poultry producers to prevent the introduction of HPAI into Oregon’s poultry flocks. ODA is asking for the public’s help in detecting HPAI in backyard flocks.

Tracking cases is critical. ODA asks bird owners

to report unusual increases in illness or death rates in their flocks. If you find a sick or dead bird, don’t touch it, report it.

• Email: npip@oda.oregon. gov • Call: 1-800-347-7028 If you find a dead or sick wild bird, please report to the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife by calling 1-866968-2600.

For more information about HPAI, symptoms, biosecurity and how you can protect your flock please visit ODA’s avian influenza webpage in English at https://oda.direct/AI and in Spanish at https://oda. direct/IA.

According to the USDA’s website, Avian influenza is caused by influenza Type A virus (influenza A). Avianorigin influenza viruses are broadly categorized based on a combination of two groups of proteins on the surface of the influenza A virus: hemagglutinin or “H” proteins, of which there are 16 (H1-H16), and neuraminidase or “N” proteins, of which there are 9 (N1-N9).

Many different combinations of “H” and “N” proteins are possible. Each combination is considered a different subtype, and related viruses within a subtype may be referred to as a lineage. Avian influenza viruses are classified as either “low pathogenic” or “highly pathogenic” based on their genetic features and the severity of the disease they cause in poultry.

Most viruses are of low pathogenicity, meaning that they causes no signs or only minor clinical signs of infection in poultry.

Fast Fact

HPAI detections do not present an immediate public health concern.

No human cases of these avian influenza viruses have been detected in the United States, According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control (CDC) and Prevention.

Metro Creative Connection

The one-time payment will be sent by July 31, 2022.

$600 assistance payments STAFF REPORT chroniclenews@countrymedia.net

The Oregon Legislature’s approved House Bill 4157 will provide a one-time $600 payment to Oregon households who received an Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) on their 2020 tax filing.

The one-time payment will be sent by July 31, 2022.

If you filed a 2020 Oregon tax return by December 31, 2021 and received an Oregon EITC, no action is required on your part, and you will automatically receive your payment by direct deposit or check. The payments are not taxable for Oregon and will not be applied to state and federal debt owed by eligible households.

Taxpayers who were eligible for EITC in 2020 but

did not claim it on their return can amend their 2020 federal and Oregon returns by April 15, 2022 to claim the EITC and still be eligible for the one-time assistance payment.

Taxpayers who miss this deadline, and did not receive an Oregon EITC, will not receive a payment.

For more information on the one-time assistance payments and amended returns, visit the Oregon Revenue Department’s One Time Assistance Payment webpage.

You can visit www. oregon.gov/dor to get forms, check the status of your tax refund, or make payments.

Call 503-378-4988 or 800356-4222 (toll-free) or email questions.dor@oregon.gov for additional assistance. For TTY (hearing- or speechimpaired), we accept all relay calls.

Crossword Puzzle

STATEPOINT CROSSWORD THEME: GARDENING ACROSS

1. Betting probability 5. Once headed by J. Edgar Hoover 8. Formally surrender 12. Gravy holder 13. Nile dweller, for short 14. More certain 15. Tiny bit 16. a.k.a. Bruce Banner 17. One who plies one’s trade 18. *”Days to ____,” on a seed packet 20. Big-ticket ____ 21. Apartments, e.g.

22. *Plumerias are often used in this Hawaiian greeting 23. Scrooge’s visitors 26. Digging into 30. What Carl Lewis did 31. Bestow 34. Month before Nisan 35. Dress with a flare 37. Choler 38. On a store tag 39. Central points 40. Paul Reubens’ Herman 42. Mother lode stuff 43. African bloodsucking pests 45. Salty dogs 47. Current tense of #30 Across

48. Retches 50. Bovine cries 52. *Like an aggressive weed 55. Frustration, in a comic book 56. *Holds a plant stem to a support 57. Type of hot sandwich 59. One born to Japanese immigrants 60. Urban legends, e.g.

61. Check out 62. Shakespeare’s “at another time” 63. “The ____ Who Loved Me” 64. *Flower’s location after a garden?

DOWN

1. Kimono closer 2. Banish to Hades 3. Crunched numbers 4. Facebook’s update feature 5. *Seed plant’s harvest 6. *Goes to seed 7. Rotten and stinky 8. *Plant variety 9. Famous canal 10. Hold as a conviction 11. Make a blunder 13. Church service oil 14. Salesman’s speech, e.g.

19. Loosen laces 22. Tennis do-over 23. *Splice, to a gardener 24. Nimbi on ikons 25. In the cooler (2 words) 26. Former Saint Brees 27. “Pulling my leg,” e.g.

28. Mother-of-pearl 29. *Kind of thumb 32. Pizzeria output, pl.

33. “____ you kidding?”

36. *N in N-P-K 38. Sneaked glances 40. Slammer 41. “The Shawshank Redemption” theme 44. Served raw 46. Isaac of science fiction 48. This Dogg can rap 49. What Elton John tickles, sing.

50. Street in Anytown, USA 51. Guesstimate phrase (two words) 52. Bodily disorders 53. Lope de ____, Spanish playwright 54. Building extensions 55. Nurses’ org.

58. ____ time in golf

Solution to crossword in next week’s issue of The Chronicle.

Columbia County’s trusted local news source

A9

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Wednesday, March 23, 2022

Student of the Month announced

Dylan Kneeland

The Columbia County Rotary Club and Columbia City Elementary School are pleased to honor fifth grader Dylan Kneeland as the March Rotary Student of the Month.

According to a release

Courtesy photo from Stacey Mendoza

from the St. Helens School District, Dylan possesses natural leadership skills and has a heart of gold.

“He continuously encourages his peers, teammates, family, and friends while striving to accomplish his

own personal goals,” the release states. “Dylan’s humble nature and self-confidence speak volumes to his integrity and sense of responsibility at home and school. He is honest, hardworking, and sets an example for others.”

Although Dylan has not decided on his career path, he said he knows that he loves animals and would enjoy learning more about the variety of occupations that work with animals.

“Dylan embodies our motto, ‘WE ARE CREW’ @ Columbia City Elementary,” the release reads. “Thank you, Dylan, for your positive contribution to our community, and congratulations on this well-deserved award.

Congratulations, Dylan!”

The Student of the Month is a partnership between the Columbia County Rotary Club and Columbia City Elementary School to recognize student achievement.

Position: Dental Hygienist

Courtesy photo

Local Marine completes service

Corporal Jonathan E. West, son of John and Pam West of Scappoose, has successfully completed his six-year obligation in the United States Marine Corps (USMC). West is a graduate of Scappoose High School Class of 2016. He was sworn into the USMC March 15, 2016. West finished his obligation with the rank of Corporal, earning the following awards, Expert Marksmen both rifle and pistol, National Defense Service Medal, Reserve Good Conduct Medal, and Navy Achievement Medal. West was honorably released to inactive status effective March 15, 2022.

West receives his military service certification from Capt. Adam E. Currey (right).

Tire-Less Teacher recognized St. Helens Middle School Instructional Assistant Jane Spofford has been honored as the latest Tire-Less Teacher.

According to a release from the St. Helens School District, Spofford is a dedicated employee of the St. Helens School District.

Throughout the years, she has served in many schools in the district.

“She has a good rapport with students and works hard to meet the needs of those she serves,” the release reads. “In addition to being an amazing and supportive staff member, Jane is creative, innovative, and has a gift for teaching.”

According to the school district release, one of Stafford’s passions is to serve others through giving, whether through a community-building activity or giving surprise gifts to those who may need some cheer.

“Jane has been a valued asset in every building she

Courtesy photo

St. Helens Middle School Instructional Assistant Jane Spofford, right, with Principal Cris Gwilliam.

has served,” the release states.

The Tire-Less Teacher Award is a partnership

between the St. Helens School District and the St. Helens Les Schwab Tire Center.

Hydropower provides many benefits in changing energy environment MICHAEL J. SYKES Sponsored content

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

When you flip a switch, the light comes on. By now, that instant access to electricity is something most of us take for granted. But do you know where that electricity comes from?

Here in Columbia County, about 85% of the electricity you use comes from clean, renewable hydropower. An additional 11% is nuclear power, meaning at least 96% of the power you use is carbon-free.

A lack of carbon emissions is one of the many benefits of hydropower. Another is hydropower’s incredible reliability.

Many other renewable resources aren’t often associated with reliability because their generation is reliant on Mother Nature. Hydropower, on the other hand, is dependable and predictable.

The water cycle constantly replenishes the fuel source.

For us, that fuel source is the Columbia River Basin, which receives significant runoff from snowmelt in the mountains.

This helps hydropower serve our power needs 24 hours a day, seven days a week, 52 weeks a year. Hydropower is the only renewable resource that excels at producing such a high and continuous electrical output.

Hydropower also works well with other renewable resources. Operators can control how much hydropower is sent onto the grid by choosing how much water to allow through the water intakes in the dam. So when the grid has an abundance of wind and solar power on sunny, windy days, operators can reduce the amount of hydropower going

onto the grid.

Conversely, when it’s dark and still outside, operators can increase the water running through dams to make up for a lack of other renewable resources.

Because hydropower plants are nimble enough to ramp their production up or down within minutes – or even seconds – these changes can be implemented quickly.

That helps address one of the biggest challenges of electrical systems: Energy must be consumed as soon as it’s produced.

It can’t be stored and saved for later.

Hydropower offers the next best thing. Storage reservoirs behind dams can store up to 30% of an average year’s runoff. These reservoirs are essentially giant batteries. They store energy – or in this case, water – when it’s not needed.

When there’s more demand for power, more water is released

from the reservoir to provide that needed energy.

Hydropower operators use these reservoirs to plan ahead for seasonal changes. Typically, operators in the Columbia Basin fill reservoirs during the wetter months to be prepared for drier conditions.

As more and more coal plants are retired and coal power is removed from the grid to meet clean energy standards, access to carbon-free hydropower is becoming even more important. Fortunately, we can continue to rely on hydropower to make sure the light keeps coming on when we flip that switch.

Michael J. Sykes General Manager, Columbia River PUD

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OR

Tactical Ordnance Gun Show Sat. Apr. 2, 9-5, Sun. Apr. 3, 9-3 Columbia County Fairgrounds 58892 Saulser Rd., St. Helens, OR General: $8.00, Children under 12: Free Free Parking

*APR-Annual Percentage Rate. The 2.49% APR is offered for qualifying motorcycle, ATV (including quads) and watercraft loans. Other rates and terms also available. Qualifying loans also include 90-Days No Payments (loan interest will continue to accrue). Some restrictions may apply. Rates & terms offered based on applicant’s credit worthiness and term of loan. Affordable financing also available for boats, campers, trailers, and motorhomes. Rates and terms are subject to change without notice. Membership with Wauna CU required. Federally insured by NCUA.

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Questions OR to be a Vendor, Contact - Julie Zielke @ 253-381-6686 Email: tacticalordnanceshow@gmail.com

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Wednesday, March 23, 2022

Boys tee off to a positive start MIKE WEBER Chronicle Guest Article

The St. Helens High School Lions boys golf team is off to a successful start in the Class 5A season, taking third place in the eight-team The Dalles Invitational Tournament at The Dalles Country Club.

The Lions, guided by assistant Coach Clark Lawrence, shot a four-player total of 400 to finish just behind the runner up La Grande High Tigers at 373 at the nine-hold event March 18. The Dalles Riverhawks won with a score of 368.

St. Helens junior Garrett Smith took home a secondplace medal with a score of 84, finishing just two strokes behind first place medalist Joe Codding of The Dalles, at 82.

Mo Cereghino of Molalla was third at 85.

“We weren’t really sure what to expect coming in and in past years, they’ve had some good teams there,” said Lawrence, whose dad Dave is the Lions head coach. “We’re happy with the results. A lot of the guys walked away knowing there’s some stuff that they have to work on. Overall, it

was a good tournament for us.

Garrett was concerned about all the different holes that he messed up on the front nine and he kind of had a rough time. We were a little surprised after seeing what he had on the front (46). He turned things around though and he played the way we expect him to on the back nine.”

Smith had two birdies and he shot a score of 38 on the back nine, which was the lowest nine-hole score of all of the 42 total golfers in the event.

Codding shot a 39 on the front nine.

St. Helens junior Tyler Tolles shot a 98, junior Thatcher Lyman shot 106 and Logan Johnston shot 112. Senior Mason Keely, in his first year on the Lions golf team, was playing in his first-ever tournament and he had a noncounting score of 122. The top four scores are counted in team scoring.

“Garrett hits pretty consistently in the high 70s and he can have good days where he shoots lower than that too,” Lawrence said. “It shows his character pretty well and he’ll do whatever he can to get better. After the front nine, he was really focused in on

Courtesy photo from Mike Weber

Courtesy photo from Mike Weber

SHHS junior Tyler Tolles putts on the green at The Dalles Country Club Mar. 18.

SHHS senior Mason Keely swings his club on a tee shot to drive the ball towards the putting green during competition in The Dalles.

what he wanted to do on the back. That front nine helped him a lot actually. While he didn’t play well, it helped him get focused again. When we play these other courses in our Northwest Oregon Conference matches, he’ll be ready and really locked in.”

Other team scores had the Madras High White Buffaloes

Creek Golf Course in Oregon City. St. Helens qualified for the Class 5A state tournament last year and the Lions quartet of golfers is hoping to achieve that goal again this year. Last year’s tourney was unofficial since it wasn’t sanctioned by the OSAA because of COVID-19 pandemic restrictions.

Since the 2020 season was

fourth (414), followed by the Pendleton High Buckaroos (437), the Hood River Valley High Eagles (445). The Goldendale High Timberwolves took seventh at 458 and the Seaside High Seagulls took eighth at 480.

The Lions will compete in their next tournament Mar. 28. on the 18-hole, par 72 Stone

canceled because of the pandemic, this year marks the first officially sanctioned OSAA state tourney since 2019. The Intermountain Conference/ NWOC Regional Tourney will be held May 9-10 at Heron Lakes Golf Club in Portland.

The state tournament is May 16-17 at Trysting Tree Golf Club in Corvallis.

Local martial arts students at State STAFF REPORT chroniclenews@countrymedia.net

Students from the St. Helens Pacific Northwest Martial Arts Academy have returned from state competition held in Portland.

The Academy took five students ages 10-16 to the state competition hosted by the U.S.A. Taekwondo Olympic Committee.

Sawyer Heinze from Scappoose placed Silver in Sparring. Cario Lubinsky from St. Helens placed Gold in Sparring and Gold in Forms. Molly Anderson from St. Helens placed Silver in Sparring and Bronze in Forms. Meuy Saechao from

Courtesy photo

This photo shows medals awarded during the state martial arts competition in Portland.

St. Helens placed Gold in Sparring and Silver in Forms and Kayla Caven from St. Helens placed Silver in Sparring and Silver in Forms.

The event drew over 300 competitors with schools from Oregon, Washington, Alaska,

Idaho and Montana. The competition was conducted March 20 at Warner Pacific College in Portland.

The Pacific Northwest Martial Arts Academy is located at 431 Columbia Boulevard in St. Helens.

Courtesy photo

Pictured in first row left to right are competitors Sawyer Heinze, Cario Lubinsky, Molly Anderson, Kayla and Meuy Saechao. In the back row are Academy officials Mike Carlson, Grandmaster James Lewis, Master Mary Carlson and Master Allen.

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