SHC531

Wednesday, May 31, 2023

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Streets, Utilities Extension Project moving ahead

WILL LOHRE Country Media, Inc.

The construction on First Street after the Cowlitz intersection to the riverfront property in the historic Riverfront District in downtown St. Helens is expected to be completed in June, according to the city of St. Helens Communications Officer Crystal King.

“This section is anticipated to be complete in approximately one month. The contractor will then begin work in another area once this section is complete,” King said.

The construction is part of the city’s Streets and Utilities Extension Project, which aims to improve key streets and intersections in the city’s historic Riverfront District and ex tend utilities onto the city’s 24-acre Riverfront Property.

“The Streets and Utilities Exten sion Project will improve the safety of existing intersections, create inviting pedestrian connections in the Riverfront District, and increase parking in the area,” the city’s website states.

Otak, Inc. is the city’s project engineer, Mayer/Reed, Inc. is the city’s landscape architect for the project, according to the city’s website, and the construction contractor is Moore Excavation, Inc.

The project was launched in 2021 to help provide a foundation for public amenities and private development on the Riverfront Property. With First Street being closed beyond the Cowlitz intersection, some parking for the downtown area has been unavailable. The city has

designated temporary parking lots to meet the need while the project is completed.

Upcoming projects

In addition to its work on the Streets and Utilities Extension Project, the city has other projects scheduled for this summer.

One of the projects will be site prep for Riverwalk Project Phase I. While the city is not anticipating

beginning construction until early fall, blackberry mitigation work will be conducted along the riverbank in preparation for the project.

King also detailed work the city will be doing as part of the Columbia Boulevard Sidewalk Project and another project near McBride Elementary School.

“Columbia Boulevard Sidewalk Project- Starting July 2023. Construction of new sidewalks along Columbia Boulevard from Gable

Road to Sykes Road to build on the previous improvements made along Gable Road by the St. Helens High School,” King said. “In addition to sidewalks, a new Rapid Flashing Beacon will be installed near McBride Elementary School. The project is being funded by a Safe Routes to School Grant, Columbia County funds, and the City’s Street Funds.”

In a previous update, The Chronicle outlined specific details about

other major waterfront projects.

Columbia View Park Amphitheater

Under Phase I of the Riverwalk Project, the city entered an agreement with Mayer/Reed in March of 2021. Mayer/Reed is a Portlandbased landscape architecture firm, and under the 2021 agreement, the council tasked that firm with providing the following services:

• To prepare full plans, specifications, estimates, permitting, and bid assistance for the Riverwalk Project Phase I and the Columbia View Park Amphitheater.

• Prepare plans, specifications, and estimates for Riverwalk Project Phase II at 30 percent design.

• Bid assistance and construction management services for Riverwalk Project Phase I and Columbia View Park Amphitheater.

An amendment to the agreement was decided in the March 15 regular council session to confirm that the new stage placement is correct in Columbia View Park as part of the Riverwalk Project Phase I work. The estimated cost for the additional services was $7,150. Mayer/Reed recently provided the council with the rendering which will be used to create an updated visual image of what the new stage would look like in its proposed location, according to King said.

See RIVERFRONT Page A9

‘Simple’ assignment gains world attention Who We Are

JEREMY C. RUARK Country Media, Inc.

What a local teacher has done is gaining worldwide attention.

St. Helens Middle School Band Director Travis Freshner has composed music for the school students called, “Tantrum.”

The music has been performed by schools in Oregon and southwest Washington and is gaining worldwide attention. Kjos Music, one of the world’s leading publishers of band music, has decided to publish “Tantrum” worldwide.

“In addition, J.W. Pepper, the distributor who everyone buys almost all of their band music from, has selected it to be part of their “Editor’s Choice” collection, which is used to signify what they see as being the best of new pieces to come out this year from any publisher,” Lisa Scholl of the St. Helens Band Patrons said. “St. Helens Middle School Band is printed at the top of every page.”

The Chronicle has reached out to Travis Freshner to gain insight into this music project.

The Chronicle: Why did

you compose Tantrum and what does it mean to you and to your students?

Travis Freshner: Tantrum began as a simple extension of a project I was doing with my classes. I often do simple creativity and composition assignments with my students, just to introduce them to the idea of creating something musical of their own. Then I decided that if I was going to ask them to try something new, it was only fair for me to try something new, too. So, while they were given a smaller and simpler project, I gave myself the challenge of writing something on a larger scale for them, which eventually turned into Tantrum.

The piece was inspired by my observations as a young father; not just of my own son’s behavior, but also by the behaviors I saw from other kids when dealing with the hardships and frustrations of toddlerhood. Throughout the piece, I tried to capture the different stages or phases of a full-blown meltdown tantrum.

See FRESHNER Page A9

Senate Republicans willing to return the last day of session

Opinion ..................... A4

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Community Calendar A4

Obituaries ................. A5

Classified Ads ......... A6

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Crossword ............... A8

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Vol. 141, No. 23

Wednesday with a list of stalled education bills. They include proposals that would provide electronic notification to parents

during emergencies, help students who face sexual harassment and put $140 million into literacy programs, one of Gov. Tina Kotek’s priorities.

Democratic lawmakers want the impasse to end before the last day of the session. Senate President Rob Wagner, D-Lake Oswego, on Tuesday told reporters the absentee senators need to return to debate and vote on all the bills.

It’s unclear what would happen if Republicans and Democrats do not reach a deal to get the Senate back to work. Kotek was in the state Capitol on Monday, meeting separately with Republican and Democrat senators about the walkout and held more meetings on Tuesday with House Republican and Democratic representatives.

“Everybody has a valid perspective, and my job is to figure out if there’s a pathway to resolve this,” Kotek told reporters on

Will Lohre / Country Media, Inc.

Signs marking the construction have been erected on First Street in St. Helens.

BEN BOTKIN

Courtesy photo

Travis Freshner conducting/directing the St. Helens Middle School music program students.

Swaying to the music helps tourism surge

The St. Helens signature fall event, the Spirit of Halloweentown and the summer 13 Nights concerts are helping to boost local and state tourism.

According to Travel Oregon, the state’s travel economy reached new highs across most categories in 2022, powering local communities and connections across the state.

By the numbers impact

Travel serves as a catalyst for a productive economy while supporting the success of other industries. Statewide, the Oregon tourism industry experienced an increase in direct travel spending by 26.5% year-over-year, from $10.9 billion to $13.9 billion.

The latest economic impact report released by Travel Oregon highlights that the state and regional tourism industry saw continued demand for overnight accommodations, which led to large gains in visitor spending. This increased spending, coupled with inflation and a tight labor market, contributed to an increase in employee earnings as well, with both having a cumulative effect

on increased tax revenue that benefits local communities. travel jobs were created in Oregon in 2022; overall, the industry is comprised of 117,360 direct jobs, growing by 16.3% year-over-year. The tax revenue analysis found that taxes from travel activity increased by 24.1%, or $181 million, compared to 2021, according to Travel Oregon. Taxes collected by local governments rose by 21.2%, or $45 million, while state taxes increased by the same percentage, or $66 million. Travel earnings — the amount of money earned by

Oregon CEO Todd Davidson said. “Together, Travel Oregon and the state’s seven regions are dedicated to driving positive economic impacts for the people and communities that call Oregon home while nurturing destinations throughout the state, stewarding the natural environment, and celebrating the diversity of Oregon’s communities and

The Kiwanis Club of St. Helens Community Parade

Saturday, June 17, 2023

Registration: 9:00 – 11:00 am

Theme: “The Wisdom of Columbia County”

Judging: 11:00 am

DO NOT THROW CANDY FROM YOUR VEHICLE.

Parade Starts: 12:00 pm

If you plan on distributing candy during the parade, please have someone walk along beside your vehicle and either hand them out or toss them gently under-handed. Kids will chase candy even crossing in front of vehicles, direct your gentle toss of candy away from parade vehicles.

RULES APPLICABLE TO ALL MOUNTED ANIMAL ENTRIES

1. No stallions allowed in the parade.

2. Each entry, either single or group, is required to provide their own “pooper scooper” to follow each horse entry in the parade. The “pooper scoopers” are encouraged to register as parade entrant and become eligible for an award in their own categor y.

3. Any rider who is experiencing difficulty in controlling their horse is required to immediately dismount until the issue is resolved between horse and rider. If safety and control are reestablished, the rider is permitted to remount and continue in the parade. If not, the rider is required to remove the horse from the parade.

4. A handler is required to walk along horseback riders under the age of 13. There may be a ratio of one handler per three entries and no more.

5. Any parade official or those acting under instruction of the parade committee may evict/ eliminate a rider from the parade at any time if any of the above rules are not followed. The rider must dismount and walk the animal in a controlled manner or must leave the parade route.

Special Events Liability Checklist for Parade Event

1). Parade Marching Bands and Walking Groups need to have water, provide assistance to their members.

2). All parade group entries need to have basic first aid kits accessible.

3). Parade Standards to be enforced are:

• No Firearms, No Smoking, No Alcohol

• No Water Balloons or Sprayed Water on Community Watching the Parade

• No Exposed Wheels on Float Trailers

4). Unregistered Parade entries and unable to comply with parade rule will be removed.

5). In the event of any high risk motorized demonstration that participants may want to exhibit, that will require permission, signed waivers of liability.

NOTE: Your signature on Registration will confirm you have read and will comply will Rules and Liability Checklist. Be Safe! Have Fun! Thank You for Participating!

cultures. Our collective efforts are creating a stronger, more equitable, and futureready Oregon economy where all visitors feel safe, respected and inspired as they travel throughout our beautiful state.”

The Oregon Coast enjoyed significant economic gains in 2022,” according to Travel Oregon. Visitor spending increased by 24% to $2.4 billion. Employment climbed 16.4% from 2021 to 2022 to employ 25,290 workers. Earnings increased by 24% to reach a total of $874.5 million while tax revenue jumped 14.7% from $101 million in 2021 to $116 million in 2022.

“It’s our privilege to welcome travelers to experience all the magic the Oregon Coast has to offer,” Oregon Coast Visitors Association (OCVA) Executive Director Marcus Hinz said. “Our goal is that the tourism industry

helps support and strengthen coastal communities. Visitor spending contributes to economic development, and visitor stewardship preserves and protects coastal ecosystems and natural resources. Through proactive destination management strategies, travel and tourism can help the Oregon Coast truly become a coastal utopia for all.” Travel is an economic powerhouse that drives the opportunity to uplift communities up and down the Oregon Coast, according to the release from OCVA, which works with coastal communities to align partnerships, destination development projects, and destination marketing with the vision of creating “a coastal utopia for all.”

The free 13 Nights concert series begins June 1 with performances Thursday evenings at the WAUNA Credit

See the lineup with this story at thechronicleonline. com.

Fast Fact Taxes from travel activity increased by 24.1%, or $181 million, compared to 2021. Taxes collected by local governments rose by 21.2%, or $45 million, while state taxes increased by the same percentage, or $66 million. Travel earnings — the amount of money earned by employees— also increased by 23.9% for a total of $821 million during 2022.

Fire agencies urge campfire safety

During Wildfire Aware ness Month, Clatsop County is partnering with Clatsop County Fire Defense Board and local and state fire pre vention agencies in remind ing people to safely main tain and put out campfires.

“People come from across the world to enjoy the beauty of the Pacific Northwest and our county,” Clatsop County Emergency Management Director. Jus tin Gibbs said. “To protect people’s lives and this beau tiful space, we encourage people to use an abundance of caution before building a campfire during wildfire season.”

State agencies involved in the Wildfire Awareness Month campaign are the Bureau of Land Management, Oregon State Parks and the Oregon Departments of Agriculture, For estry and State Lands.

The Clatsop County Fire Defense Board and local fire services recommend seven campfire safety tips to help you reduce the risk of starting a wildfire:

• Know before you go. Check out current conditions

• Clear around the campfire site and circle the pit with rocks

• Keep your campfire small

• Attend your fire at all times

• Burn wood only

• Always have water and a shovel on siteBefore call-

ing it a night or leaving for home, make sure it’s DEAD out

Find out about campfire restrictions at the Oregon State Parks website.

Union Stage at 265 Strand Street in St. Helens.

Jeremy C. Ruark / Country Media, Inc.

The City of St. Helens 13 Nights concert series attracts locals and visitors to the Columbia River waterfront each summer.

Jeremy C. Ruark / Country Media, Inc.

Blues singers Curtis Salgado and Alan Hager open the St. Helens 13 Nights concert series in 2022 with a June performance.

Metro Creative Connection

The majority of forest fires are started by humans who leave their fires unattended, according to fire officials.

New gym to open in Scappoose

WILL LOHRE Country Media, Inc.

For fitness fanatics in Scappoose, St. Helens, and traversing Highway 30, a new gym is opening at 51581 Columbia River Highway in Scappoose. Peak Performance will open its Scappoose location on June 1. Peak Performance is a Portland area gym, athletic club & fitness center with two locations in Portland, and the Scappoose gym will be its third installment.

Ryan Marsh owns Peak Performance, and the Scappoose location arose from Marsh noticing the vacant Sears building off Highway 30 when he drove up to visit his parent in St. Helens.

“Basically, my parents live in St. Helens. So, every weekend, every other weekend, periodically, we’d go out there for barbecues, and we just kept seeing the same place sitting empty for years, and so I finally just

went online to see who had it listed, and reached out,”

Marsh said.

Marsh was drawn to the location because it’s central to the area and was the “perfect size to serve this community.” Marsh’s goal with Peak Performance is to offer “premiere functional fitness.” The large space offers a full range of free weights, machines that isolate muscle groups, various squat racks, lifting platforms, and more than 40 cardio machines.

In addition to giving members a full array of exercise options, Marsh also wants the facility and its amenities to give the customers the best quality they can. Peak Performance offers a locker room with showers and a sauna for its members. The facility also offers classes that are open to members, with the cost being included in the membership. Group and personal trainers are also available, with an extra cost for those individu-

alized services.

“We want people to use the facilities, use the locker rooms, and feel like they’re at a spa when they’re using those facilities, so it’s even elevated from their experience at home,” Marsh said.

Family Business

Opening a gym in Columbia County has a personal for Marsh as well. Brad Marsh, Ryan’s father, used to own Columbia River Athletic Club in Columbia City. Ryan Marsh wanted to bring a gym to the region to “revitalize” the relationship with the community. Getting the project together has taken a lot of work for Marsh and his family. While the original plan was to open the facility in October 2022, there were many steps that needed to be taken to secure the applications and change of use permits. Marsh said that working through a lot of the permitting process and

working with engineers to maximize the facility’s utility has been complex.

One of the special things about this new project has been the involvement of Marsh’s family in getting the building to its opening. Ryan Marsh got emotional as he spoke about the way his family came together around the project.

“I’m a contractor, my oldest brother’s a contractor, my dad’s a contractor. All separate licenses. But I was thinking the other day, every single one of my seven brothers, it’s overwhelming because everyone’s kind of stepped in to help and be part of building it out,” Marsh said. “That’s really special to me, to have every single one of my brothers be part of the development of the space, and have touched and built it.”

Building a community

Marsh’s process has been

grueling, and he said he’s been thankful for the support.

Marsh has been working on dialing in all the facility’s components so that it’s ready for day one of opening. Marsh said they have overbuilt the facility with the hope of growing into it in the months and years after opening.

Marsh said Columbia County is a growing community, and he hopes this gym will grow as the County does in the coming years. Marsh also thinks the gym’s proximity to Highway 30 will also get people through the door. But most importantly, Marsh hopes the gym will bring value to the community, and the gym members are ultimately the essential piece.

“There’s 30,000 people that commute down Highway 30 every single day. We’re looking to service a broad region of people,” Marsh said. “The gym doesn’t make it a gym; it’s the members

that make it a gym. And that’s just how it evolves because you can start to see a community form, and that’s what we hope out of each of our gyms, is that there’s a strong sense of community, a strong sense of camaraderie of people who want to build and work out together.”

With opening around the corner, Marsh wanted the community to be aware of some promos that the gym has in conjunction with its opening. The first 250 people to sign up will get a “founding member” tee shirt and those first 250 people will also be entered into a raffle for an electric bicycle.

Memberships are $55 a month if you buy a yearly pass and $69 a month if you are paying on a month-bymonth basis. Membership gives full access to all amenities and equipment.

For more information, visit https://peakperformancepdx.com/services/.

Boating safety: Pay attention, be prepared

JEREMY C. RUARK

Country Media, Inc.

As summer arrives, people are flocking to local waterways and the Pacific Ocean to enjoy Oregon’s incredible boating opportunities.

Regardless of what’s calling you to the water and the type of boat you’re in, be aware of your surroundings, be prepared, and make good decisions, the Oregon Marine Board advises, adding that rivers and the Pacific Ocean, even the surf zone, are the most inherently dangerous.

It’s important to always scout ahead, mind the tide, decide on the safest route, and expect the unexpected, the Oregon Marine Board states on its website, adding that most accidents and fatalities are due to falling overboard, collisions, and operator error/misjudgment, and reckless behavior.

“Inexperience and solo operation continue to be a growing trend of boating fatalities in Oregon,” Oregon Marine Board Boating Safety

Program manager Brian Paulsen said. “Planning ahead, boating with others, always keeping a sharp lookout, and wearing a properly fitted life jacket for your boating activity should be at the top of all boaters’ focus.

The Oregon State Marine Board advises boaters to plan ahead and check out the Marine Board’s interactive boating access map. The map displays public boat ramps and local rules for boat operations.

Also, check the weather forecast, water levels, and tides. See if there are any reported obstructions and have the right gear for your boating activity. Boaters can also check the Marine Board’s website to find out what equipment is required based on the size and type of boat.

The Marine Board reminds boaters:

• Boat Sober. Abstain from consuming marijuana, drugs, or alcohol, which impair judgment, reaction time, and coordination and

cause dehydration. Boating demands sharp situational awareness.

• All children 12 and under are required to wear a life jacket when underway on all boats (motorized and nonmotorized). All boaters on Class III whitewater rivers are required to wear a life jacket.

• Be courteous to other boaters and share the waterway. Stage your gear in the parking lot or staging area regardless of your boat type. This makes launching faster and everyone around you happier.

• In Oregon, all boaters must take a boating safety course and carry a boating safety education card when operating a powerboat greater than 10 horsepower. Paddlers of non-motorized boats 10’ and longer are required to purchase a waterway access permit.

The Marine Board also offers a free, online Paddling Course for boaters new to the activity.

The Oregon State Marine

Local airport to see $160,000

Board contracts with 32 county sheriff’s offices and the Oregon State Police to enforce boating laws and help patrol Oregon’s wa-

terways. The Marine Board provides state-of-the-art, hands-on training for marine law enforcement and provides equipment, gear, and

funding for patrol boats. For more information about safe boating in Oregon, visit Boat.Oregon.gov.

JEREMY C. RUARK

Country Media, Inc.

The Scappoose Airport will receive $160,000 from the federal Airport Improvement Program (AIP).

The AIP grant program funds airport infrastructure projects like runways, taxiways, airport signage, airport lighting, and airport markings in an effort to strengthen our nation’s aviation infrastructure. These awards will go toward pavement, runway, and taxiway improvements, and safety area construction.

Oregon’s U.S. Senators Jeff Merkley and Ron Wyden announced that the Federal Aviation Adminis-

tration (FAA) is awarding six airports across the state, include Scappoose, nearly $3.5 million under the AIP.

“Oregonians across the state and industries rely on air travel for many reasons, whether it’s for recreation, support for firefighting, or to transport goods,” Merkley said. “This federal funding will help ensure Oregon’s regional airports are able to ensure safe travels for Oregonians and visitors alike as they fly throughout the state.”

“These federal investments in the safety and efficiency of rural Oregon airports generate good-paying jobs and help to protect communities needing reli-

able air options for fighting wildfires, delivering medicines, providing emergency transport and more,” Wyden said. “I’m gratified these funds are en route to our state and will keep battling for similar infrastructure resources throughout Oregon.”

The awards coming to Oregon

• Scappoose $160,000

• Madras Municipal: $955,040

• Florence Municipal: $921,947

• Southwest Oregon Regional: $500,000

• La Grande/Union County: $450,000

• Prineville: $450,000

Courtesy from the Port of Columbia County These awards will go toward pavement, runway, and taxiway improvements, and safety area construction.

Will Lohre / Country Media, Inc.

Peak Performance owner Ryan Marsh wants to offer a premium gym to residents of Columbia County.

Will Lohre / Country Media, Inc.

Peak Performance offers a variety of exercising opportunities, from free weights to cardio machines.

News and Views

Moving forward together to benefit generations in our community

PAUL VOGEL CASEY GARRETT BETSY JOHNSON

Chronicle Guest Article

As individual people and representatives of organizations that work closely with the PCC/OMIC Training Center in Scappoose, recent and current events really require that we address them and offer our perspectives for public consideration.

• PCC/OMIC and OMIC R&D are two different, but complimentary institutions. Two important things here: For the public, the missions and the functions of PCC and OMIC R&D complement each other and are creating very good things around advanced and additive manufacturing – and training -- in our community – for the state, the nation and for the world. For state and federal funders, note that the two institutions, while closely complementary, are complete structurally

separate.

• We work with PCC/ OMIC Training Center practically on a daily basis, connecting employers and citizens with training programs, career upskilling, and community resources. It’s a huge advantage of having this specially focused PCC training facility in our county – which we worked very hard for a long time to get.

• Our experience with the team at PCC/OMIC Training Center is that they have an exceptional team in place. They are investing time, commitment and resources engaging in our community. Here’s just a small sample of what they’re doing.

• They have set up programs and equipment like the Fab Lab that anyone in the community can access.

• They’re collaborating on pre-apprenticeship programs with the Carpenters.

• They’re customizing training and certification programs for local employers.

• They’re engaging high school students and high school training programs, career fairs with NWESD, and other measures to help provide very good options to our kids.

• They’re working with soon-to-be-displaced workers at the Cascades plant that is shutting down.

• And, importantly, they work with WorkSource, NWOregon Workforce Board, and others on programs specifically for underserved populations, veterans, and, and this is important – formerly incarcerated individuals working hard to get their lives back on track and re-join the community, society, and the economy to support themselves and their families.

• Why that last one is important is because one of PCC/OMIC’s best, most effective and productive team members has a prison record. Yes, we know about it, and if you didn’t before – you now know about too. PCC knows. PCC also

Voices of the community

Open Letter to CRFR Chairman Feige

CRFR Chairman Feige

Rules for public comment 33.1 E

Please respond to the following:

1. How did CRFR obtain the employment application of Joel Medina?

2. What “Grooming” has CRFR performed with Chief Medina during the hiring/ employment process as alluded to by him during a board meeting?

3. What is the present relationship between CRFR, Pink Buzz Media and Jeanette Sanchez?

4. Where can the meeting minutes of CRFR Civil Service Commission be obtained?

5. To Director Hudson re: Spotlight 4/14/23, 4/18/23,

4/21/23 and 23CV14480.

A. What action has been taken relating to employees – being yelled at, intimidation, numerous job threats, personal attacks, derogatory comments, aggression, and lack of communication.

B. Has any action been initiated concerning alleged rude, crude, pointed and vulgar public discussions between Chiefs Medina, Smythe, Sanchez, Ms. Lehrner and Mr. Lehrner as stated in 23CV14480, pg. 25 #118, #119 and #120 dated 4/7/23 and similar action/ behavior notification to Director Niles referencing 12/27/2021 by a citizen? You stated you considered the duration of these actions of your staff were “not sustained for a long period of time so they would not be acted upon.” Would 16 months be long enough to be considered “sustained” and “acted upon”?

Will any action be taken on these issues or will they be allowed to continue until the Circuit Court Case is resolved and until more Firefighters/Medics and staff resign?

Charles

Custer St. Helens

Having a tantrum

The government should show up to work or not be paid. Just like the rest of us. And having a tantrum instead of their job does not say they showed up. Work is what they are supposed to do. Together.

Peggy Simmons Aumsville

knows, like us, that he’s shown a great talent for the industry outreach position he holds – much like the apparently great job he was doing before -- before he really screwed up. He got convicted, he served his time, he repaid all the funds, and now he’s actually helping others like him and many more – in a role extremely well suited to his work experience and the PCC Training Center.

We’re making great progress together, so let’s all focus on going forward and keep that progress moving.

• Do we love how all this has come out? No, we don’t; it’s unfortunate. There are so many like Rand working in our county who also prefer for their background not to become social media

conversation. Forget social media, just go talk to Rand. He’ll acknowledge it all while looking you straight in the eye, and you’ll also likely get a good sense for why he’s so good at his job at the Training Center.

• Do we love how this has been handled by PCC? No, we do not. We also understand it’s a large institution with a lot of facilities, a lot of employees, a lot of issues to deal with and a lot on its plate. Tough to be as agile as you might. That’s why we’re stepping up and forward as local community members – because getting PCC to build the Training Center out here in our community was a big deal. Now that it’s open, the Training Center is fulfilling its promise to serve our community – and enhance the OMIC R&D advanced and additive manufacturing footprint in which the state has invested. Feel free to ask Craig Campbell at OMIC R&D about his views on this, too.

• The PCC team that is

being assembled is a good one. They work together well, they’re getting out into our communities, they’re connecting with people, schools, employers, and other stakeholders. They’re educating and training, helping people improve their skills, their career path, and their lives. They’re doing their job. We support that and their mission.

We’re making great progress together, so let’s all focus on going forward and keep that progress moving.

Betsy Johnson is former state representative and state senator representing Columbia County for more than two decades. She also is a business owner and serves in multiple community leadership roles, including the Board of the Columbia Economic Team. Casey Garrett is a Columbia County Commissioner. Paul Vogel is the Executive Director of the Columbia Economic Team.

community eVents

June 10 Daybreakers Kiwanis Annual Secure Shred Day 10 a.m. - 2 p.m. behind State Farm on Sykes Road and Highway 30 in St. Helens. $5 per file box donation.

June 17 St. Helens Kiwanis Community Parade 9 a.m. Check-in and Registration. New Location at Lifempowered, 105 Port Ave. St. Helens, OR 97051. Staging on Milton Way. Judging at 11 a.m. Parade starts at noon. Information contact: Lisa Lewis 503-407-7916 or Judy Thompson 503-397-6056 st.helenskiwanisparade@ gmail.com

Ongoing Events

Tuesdays

Baby Storytime 10:30 a.m. - Join Mx. Aryn in the St. Helens Library Children’s Room for stories, songs, dancing, and more — all designed to help develop young children’s literacy skills. For ages 6 months to 2 years. Storytimes are free and you do not need a Library card to attend. For more information, call the library at 503-397-4544.

Wednesdays

Thursdays

Preschool Storytime

10:30 a.m. - Join Mx. Aryn in the St. Helens Library Children’s Room for stories, songs, dancing, a craft, and more — all designed to help develop young children’s literacy skills. For ages 3 to 5 years old. Storytimes are free and you do not need a Library card to attend. For more information, call the library at 503-397-4544.

Fridays

2 p.m. - 4 p.m. Tea and Sweets in the cottage at Caples House, 1925 1st Street in Columbia City. Cost is $5. 503-397-5390.

Fridays - Sunday

1 p.m. - 5 p.m. - Caples House Museum Tours, 1925 1st Street in Columbia City.$5. Stop by and see what has changed. 503-397-5390.

Lower Columbia River Watershed Council

Daniel Grant at 714-7689327 or check the Resonate Facebook page.

Columbian Toastmasters Promoting positive learning and leadership through public speaking. Anyone is welcome to visit! Lunch meetings at Warren Country Inn, 56575 Columbia River Hwy, Warren, OR 97053 from 12 p.m.-1 p.m. every Thursday. Call 503-3690329 for more information.

Overcomers Outreach Meetings are held every Saturday at 9 a.m. at Creekside Baptist Church, 51681 SW Old Portland Road in Scappoose. Call Fred 971-7576389.

Celebrate Recovery

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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 address 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.

Toddler Storytime 10:30 a.m. - Join Mx. Aryn in the St. Helens Library Children’s Room for stories, songs, dancing, a craft, and more — all designed to help develop young children’s literacy skills. For ages 2 to 3 years old. Storytimes are free and you do not need a Library card to attend. For more information, call the library at 503-397-4544.

Lower Columbia Watershed Council meets the second Monday of the month at 6:30 p.m. in the Clatskanie PUD building. Zoom links are also available. Visit the council’s website for agenda postings and Zoom at www. lowercolumbiariver.org/ events-page.

Resonate Recovery Meets at 7 p.m. to 8 p.m.

Wednesday - Sundays. This is a Bible based, Christcentered spiritual recovery meeting for those struggling with addictions and compulsive behavior at 220 S. 1st Street in St. Helens. Everyone is loved and welcomed. For more information call Debbie at 503-560-0521,

For anyone struggling with addiction, hurts, habits, and hang-ups. Doors open at 6:30 p.m. for coffee, snacks, and fellowship. The meeting starts at 7 p.m. The first Monday of each month at 6 p.m. the doors open for a free dinner. Yankton Community Fellowship, 33579 Pittsburg Road in St. Helens. 503-396-7091. Childcare is available. www. yanktoncommunityfellowship.com.

Watch Spring on Fridays 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. Have tea and a sweet in Caples’ Cottage, 1925 1st Street in Columbia City. Cost is $5. 503-397-5390.

To list an event in the Community Calendar, email details with a phone number that may be published for anyone that might have questions, to jruark@countrymedia.net or chronicleclassifieds@countrymedia. net, or call 503-397-0116.

crossWord solution

Solution for the May 24, 2023 crossword puzzle

Oregon files lawsuit in robocall case

You may have received them late at night or while at work, robocalls have become a consistent issue in Columbia County, across the state and the nation.

Now, Oregon is taking action against one company that Attorney General Ellen Rosenblum said initiated billions of illegal robocalls.

Rosenblum has sued Michael D. Lansky, LLC, which does business under the name Avid Telecom, its owner Michael Lansky, and its vice president Stacey S. Reeves, for allegedly initiating and facilitating billions of illegal robocalls to millions of people and violating the Telephone Consumer Protection Act, the Telemarketing Sales Rule, and other federal and state telemarketing and consumer laws.

What the lawsuit claims

Avid Telecom sent or transmitted more than 7.5 billion calls to telephone numbers on the National Do Not Call Registry, according to a release from Rosenblum.

“Robocalls are annoying, intrusive — and they are also downright dangerous,” Rosenblum said. “We are glad to be part of this lawsuit as this issue affects every one of us— particularly older Oregonians who are more likely to be preyed upon by scammers and predatory businesses that engage in robocalling.”

The legal action arises from the bipartisan nationwide Anti-Robocall Multistate Litigation Task Force of 51 attorneys general.

Struggling with laundry expenses?

Laundry with Love can help by providing quarters, laundry soap and more. We will be at the Royal Quick Clean laundromat, 1835 St. Helens St., Saturday June 3 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Pamela Gail Curnutt (Hunt) was born an only child in Portland, Oregon on Nov. 1, 1943, to Donald Eugene and Verna Marie Hunt. She was raised on a dairy farm in Nehalem, Oregon next door to her cousin Janie Lommen-Hagwell, whom she cherished and who was also an only child. She passed away with her husband by her side on May 7, 2023. She was a graduate of OSU and PSU, earning a Master’s in counseling. She taught home economics at Scappoose High School, and in Tillamook. She was an AAUW member and taught

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The task force is investigat ing and taking legal action against those responsible for routing significant volumes of illegal robocall traffic into and across the United States. The Federal Trade Commission and the Social Security Administration’s Office of the Inspector Gen eral provided investigative assistance in this matter.

Avid Telecom is a Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) service provider that sells data, phone numbers, dialing software, and/or expertise to help its custom ers make mass robocalls. It also serves as an intermedi ate provider and allegedly facilitated or helped route illegal robocalls across the country.

Robocalls are annoying, intrusive — and they are also downright dangerous.

~ Ellen Rosenblum, Oregon Attorney General

Between December 2018 and January 2023, Avid sent or attempted to transmit more than 24.5 billion calls. More than 90 percent of those calls lasted less than just 15 seconds, which indicates they were likely robocalls. Further, Avid helped make hundreds of millions of calls using spoofed or invalid caller ID numbers, including more than 8.4 million calls that appeared to be coming from government and law enforcement agencies, as well as private companies.

Avid Telecom allegedly sent or transmitted scam

calls about Social Security Administration scams, Medicare scams, auto warranty scams, Amazon scams, DirecTV scams, credit card interest rate reduction scams, and employment scams. Examples of some of these scam calls are available to listen to here and here.

New legislation

This suit is not the only action to crack down on robocallers being taken by Attorney General Rosenblum’s office. The Oregon Department of Justice is supporting legislation sponsored by Representative Paul Holvey (D-Eugene) to help combat illegal robocalls that originate outside the United States. The Attorney General is urging the Oregon Senate to pass House Bill 2759, which the Oregon House passed in April. HB

obituAries

Pamela Gail Curnutt (Hunt)

Nov. 1, 1943 ~ May 7, 2023

WIC classes. She helped run her husband’s optometry clinic in Saint Helens. She was active in 4H and taught

2759 will amend Oregon’s anti-robocall statutes so that telemarketing companies who carry traffic they know (or consciously avoid knowing) is illegal are liable for those calls to the same extent as if they originated the call themselves.

“Currently it is illegal under Oregon law to call someone on the do-notcall list or to make scam robocalls,” Rosenblum said. “But because so many of these calls come from overseas it can be nearly impossible to hold the call originators accountable under Oregon’s current statute. HB 2759 will help close that legal gap.”

To learn more about how to report robocalls and what you can do about them, check out the Oregon DOJ’s new information sheet, “Tired of Robocalls?”

cooking classes and judged county and state fairs. She was awarded Saint Helens Businesswoman of the year and co-created a catering company called Fresh and Fabulous with Leslie Ramsdell. Her life was vibrant and bursting with true friendships, travel, and service. She will be remembered for her bright laughter, zest for life, work ethic, and heart of gold. She married Dr. George William Curnutt, the love of her life, in 1965. They enjoyed 58 years of marriage, full of laughter, and devotion. She adored her family and was thrilled to

Raymond J. Buckno, Jr.

1946 ~ 2023

Raymond J. Buckno, Jr., known to his friends as “Ray,” passed away peacefully on Wednesday, May 17, with his wife (Sunghe) by his side. He was 77 years old.

Ray was born in Trenton, New Jersey, in March of 1946. He grew up in a large family with seven siblings: Mary, Joanne, George, Marge, Christie, Burnie, and Fran. After attending high school, Ray joined the U.S. Marine Corps and served with a rank of Admiral’s Orderly on the USS Newport News. His passion and enthusiasm for the Marines remained a constant throughout his life.

Donna M. Goodwin was born April 29, 1930 to Carl Melvin and Lida E. Lungberg in Nisland, South Dakota. She died, surrounded by family, on May 23, 2023 from complications of a stroke. As a young child Donna and her family moved here and settled in the Yankton area, she attended Yankton school. On March 4, 1955 Donna married William E. Goodwin, they resided in

service, Ray began his civilian career with the New Jersey Power and Light Company as part of the “tower gangs.” He thor-

St. Helens where Donna was a stay-at-home mom to their two sons. Family was everything to Donna.

Donna enjoyed camping, gardening, going to the casino and going to the beach to go crabbing. She was a member of Ladies of the Elks Lodge #1999 for many years.

Donna is survived by her two sons, Bill of Rainier and Richard (Madeline) of St. Helens; brother

oughly enjoyed working at extreme heights that would greatly intimidate most others. After relocating to Oregon in 1978, Ray found a new home for his talents at Portland General Electric (PGE) where he served as a Lineman for the next 25 years.

Ray was blessed to be the father of two daughters, Dawn and Niki, who brought the delightful enjoyment of two grandchildren (Robin and Zak) into his life.

To know Ray is to know of his deep love for the Marines as well as for outdoor sports. He would routinely fill his free time with hunt-

Robert “Buzz” Lungberg of Puyallup, Washington; six grandchildren; one great grandchild; and numerous nieces and nephews.

A graveside service will be held at 11 a.m. on June 1, 2023 at Bethany Memo rial Cemetery in Warren, Oregon with a reception to follow. Pastor Steve Berry officiating. Please sign our online guestbook at www. columbiafh.com.

have four grandchildren. She is survived by her husband Dr. George William Curnutt (Bill); daughters, Melinda (Mindi) Coats and Dr. Jill Rubano; sons-in-law, James Coats Jr. and Dr. Chris Rubano; and four special grandchildren, Mia Gail and James Coats III and Sophia Pamela and Brennen George Rubano.

Special thanks to friends and family and the St. Helens community for their love and unwavering support. A service will be held at 1 p.m. on June 30, 2023 at Warren Community Fellowship.

ing and fishing. He shared his appreciation for the great outdoors by volunteering with a fishing derby for handicapped children, held annually in Washington state. Serving others in the country, whether through the Marines or charity, brought Ray a great amount of joy.

Ray’s spirit and passion will be missed by all who knew him.

Semper Fi.

A graveside service with Military Honors at Willamette National Cemetery is being coordinated for July. Please refer to www. columbiafh.com for updated details.

Donna Marie Goodwin April 29, 1930 ~ May 23, 2023

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Community Yard Sale Join Christ Episcopal Church in St. Helens for a community yard sale on July 8. Sell your goods at a safe place. We will do all the promotion & provide tables (for 15% fee). Deadline to reserve a table is June 24. Contact carol.craig19@ yahoo.com or call 971.221.4640.

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CH23-1361

In the Matter of the Rate

Adjustments for Solid Waste Curbside Collection Services

In Unincorporated Columbia County. NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING PUBLICATION 1. The Board of County Commissioners will hold a hybrid public hearing on Wednesday, June 14, 2023, at or after 10:00 a.m. from the Commissioners Meeting Room, Room 310, at the County Courthouse, 230 Strand Street, St. Helens, OR. To join the meeting virtually please log into https://global.gotomeeting.com/join/357054141

United States (Toll Free): 1 866 899 4679 Access Code: 357-054-141 2. The purpose of this hearing is to consider proposed rate adjustments for curbside garbage and recycling services for residents and businesses in rural Columbia County (i.e., outside city limits), effective July 1, 2023. The Columbia County Solid Waste Advisory Committee is recommending that the Board adopt a rate increase of 7.5% rate increase for rural Clatskanie, rural St. Helens, and rural Rainier. These areas are serviced by Waste Connec-

tions, dba Hudson Garbage Service; And a 5.1% rate increase rural Scappoose and rural Vernonia. These areas are serviced by Waste Management. Staff recommends that the Board set the proposed rate adjustments over for review at a public hearing on June 14, 2023, after provision of required public notice with the rate increases to go into effect on July 1, 2023. 3. This is a public hearing. Interested parties may appear and be heard. Columbia County does not discriminate based on disability and will provide

reasonable accommodations in accordance with the County’s ADA Policy. To request accommodations or to review the County’s’ ADA Policy, please contact the Board of Commissioners’ Office at 503-397-4322. 4. The hearing will be held according to the procedures established in the Columbia County Solid Waste Ordinance. 5.

For additional information regarding the proposed rate adjustments, please contact Michael Russell, Public Works Director, at 503-3975090 Michael.Russell@

Public Notices PROTECTING YOUR RIGHT TO KNOW

CH23-1351

TS No. OR07000002-23-1 APN 13559 | 0201- 13559 TO No 230006303-OR-MSI TRUSTEE’S NOTICE OF SALE

the Office of the Recorder of Columbia County, Oregon to-wit: APN: 13559 | 020113559 LOT 15 AND THE SOUTH 3 FEET OF LOT 14, BLOCK 2, COLUMBIA PARK, IN THE CITY OF ST. HELENS, COLUMBIA COUNTY, OREGON. Commonly known as: 374 N 5TH ST, ST HELENS, OR 97051 Both the Beneficiary, U.S. Bank National Association, and the Trustee, Nathan F. Smith, Esq., OSB #120112, have elected to sell the said real property to satisfy the obligations secured by said Trust Deed and notice has been recorded pursuant to Section 86.752(3) of Oregon Revised Statutes. The default for which the foreclosure is made is the Grantor’s failure to pay: Failed to pay payments which became due Monthly Payment(s): 4 Monthly Payment(s) from 06/01/2019

to 09/30/2019 at

from

from

Monthly Payment(s) from 03/01/2023 to 04/28/2023 at $1,030.23 Monthly Late Charge(s): $141.10 By this reason of said default the Beneficiary has declared all obligations secured by said Trust Deed immediately due and payable, said sums being the following, to- wit: The sum of $113,044.11 together with interest thereon at the rate of 5.00000% per annum from May 1, 2019 until paid; plus all accrued late charges thereon; and all Trustee’s fees, foreclosure costs and any sums advanced by the Beneficiary pursuant to the terms of said Trust Deed.

Wherefore, notice is hereby given that, the undersigned Trustee will on September 5, 2023 at the hour of 01:00 PM, Standard of Time, as established by Section 187.110, Oregon Revised Statues, Front Entrance, Columbia County Courthouse, 230 Strand Street, St. Helens, OR 97051 County of Columbia, sell at public auction to the highest bidder for cash the interest in the said described real property which the Grantor had or had power to convey at the time of the execution by him of the said Trust Deed, together with any interest which the Grantor or his successors in interest acquired after the execution of said Trust Deed, to satisfy the foregoing obligations thereby secured and the costs and expenses of sale, including a reasonable charge by the Trustee. Notice is further given that any person named in Section 86.778 of Oregon Revised

CH23-1359

CH23-1353

A public meeting of the Budget Committee of the Columbia River Fire & Rescue, Columbia County, State of Oregon, where deliberation of the Budget Committee will take place to discuss the budget for the fiscal year July 1, 2023, to June 30, 2024, will be held at 58611 McNulty Way, St. Helens OR 97051. The meeting will take place on June 14, 2023, at 7:00 p.m.

If needed, a second meeting will take place on June 15, 2023, at 7:00 p.m., should the Budget Committee need additional time to approve the budget. The purpose of this meeting is to receive the budget message and

budget document, as well as providing members of the public opportunity to ask questions or comment on the budget document. This is a public meeting where deliberation of the Budget Committee will take place. Any person may appear at the meeting and discuss the proposed programs with the Budget Committee. A copy of the budget document and a link for the upcoming meeting will be made available for review on the District’s website https:// www.crfr.com/administrative no later than June 13, 2023. The budget meeting will be a hybrid meeting, with the option to attend in person or

via Microsoft Teams. Should you wish to speak during the public hearing portion of the meeting, you may sign up by completing the form on the District’s webpage at crfr.com or calling 48 hours prior to the meeting. Written comments may be provided in advance of the meeting by sending an email to lehnerk@crfr.com If you desire to participate in the public hearing and are unable to provide written comments at least 48 hours in advance of the public hearing, please contact Kate Lehner, 270 Columbia Blvd, St Helens, OR 97051 (Phone No. 503-397- 2990) prior to the scheduled meeting time.

Statutes has the right to have the foreclosure proceeding dismissed and the Trust Deed reinstated by payment to the Beneficiary of the entire amount then due (other than such portion of said principal as would not then be due had no default occurred), together with the costs, Trustee’s or attorney’s fees and curing any other default complained of in the Notice of Default by tendering the performance required under the obligation or Trust Deed, at any time prior to five days before the date last set for sale. Without limiting the Trustee’s disclaimer of representations or warranties, Oregon law requires the Trustee to state in this notice that some residential property sold at a Trustee’s sale may have been used in manufacturing methamphetamines, the chemical components of which are known to be toxic. Prospective purchasers of residential property should

be aware of this potential danger before deciding to place a bid for this property at the Trustee’s sale. In construing this notice, the masculine gender includes the feminine and the neuter, the singular includes plural, the word “Grantor” includes any successor in interest to the Grantor as well as any other persons owing an obligation, the performance of which is secured by said Trust Deed, the words “Trustee” and “Beneficiary” includes their respective successors in interest, if any.

Dated: April 27, 2023 By: Nathan F. Smith, Esq., OSB #120112 Successor Trustee Malcolm & Cisneros, A Law Corporation Attention: Nathan F. Smith, Esq., OSB #120112 c/o TRUSTEE CORPS 17100 Gillette Ave, Irvine, CA 92614 949- 252-8300 Order Number 91521, Pub

Dates: 5/17/2023, 5/24/2023, 5/31/2023, 6/7/2023, CHRONICLE

CH23-1358 McNulty Water PUD Board meeting will be held June 6, 2023, at 7pm. Located at 34240 Millard Road, Warren, Oregon 97053.

District's webstite for meeting login details. The purpose of this meeting is to discuss the budget for the fiscal year beginning July 1, 2023 as approved by the NWRESD Budget  Committee.  A summary of the budget is presented below. A copy of the budget may be inspected or obtained at NWRESD Regional Office, 5825 NE Ray Circle, Hillsboro OR   between the hours of 8:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m., or online at nwresd.org. This budget is for anannual budget period.  This budget was  prepared on a basis of accounting that is the  same as the preceding year.

FORM ED‐1 Telephone: (503)614‐1253 Actual Amount Adopted Budget Approved Budget Last Year 2021‐2022 This Year 2022‐2023 Next Year 2023‐2024 $32,449,686 $22,411,195 $29,017,509 13,538,299 13,406,000 14,098,401 40,721,911 44,802,087 53,688,111 1,072,123 941,921 0 71,342,086 89,263,222 93,357,417 13,158,324 21,566,827 18,298,422 48,589,875 50,367,946 53,184,002 0 0 15,070,000 $220,872,304 $242,759,198 $276,713,862 $40,799,856 $54,709,337 $59,028,011 Other Associated Payroll Costs 22,740,478 35,568,049 35,994,754 36,967,768 44,646,112 46,232,666 5,030,486 9,690,430 11,940,030 817,205 2,551,759 20,410,723 Other Objects (except debt service & interfund transfers) 28,382,969 38,783,924 40,707,708 1,735,820 638,000 2,388,000 48,589,875 50,367,946 53,184,002 0 1,461,271 1,244,500 Unappropriated Ending Fund Balance & Reserves 0 4,342,370 5,583,468 $185,064,457 $242,759,198 $276,713,862 $57,426,265 $80,502,850 $87,426,390 395.27 482.85 473.83 52,467,413 69,608,490 73,505,309 203.00 254.51 281.43 3000 Enterprise & Community Service 1,449,549 2,633,047 2,856,706 13.75 13.75 16.75 4000 Facility Acquisition & Construction 0 958,729 16,314,500 000 24,491,303 32,246,495 34,210,987 640,052 638,000 2,388,000 48,589,875 50,367,946 53,184,002 0 1,461,271 1,244,500 0 4,342,370 5,583,468 $185,064,457 $242,759,198 $276,713,862 612.02 751.11 772.01 Rate or Amount Imposed Rate or Amount Imposed  Permanent Rate Levy      (Rate Limit $0.1538 per $1,000) 0.1538 0.1538 0.1538  Levy For General Obligation Bonds LONG TERM DEBT General Obligation Bonds Other Bonds Other Borrowings      Total   If more space is needed to complete any section of this form, insert lines (rows) on this sheet.  You may delete blank lines Estimated  Debt Outstanding  Not Incurred on July 1 Estimated Debt Authorized, But   on July 1 $13,670,000 $796,770 $13,670,000 $796,770      FTE      FTE      FTE     Total Requirements     Total  FTE  Local Option Levy 5000 Other Uses      5100 Debt Service*      5200 Interfund Transfers* 6000 Contingency      * not included in total 5000 Other Uses.  To be appropriated separately from other 5000 expenditures. 2022.2023hascontinuedtochallengeeducatorsbeyondwhatwecouldhaveimaginedonlyafewyearsago.Districtsarenowrecoveringfromtheglobalpandemicincludingadaptingtorapidandfrequentchangesto

CH23-1355

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE STATE OF OREGON FOR THE COUNTY OF COLUMBIA PROBATE DEPARTMENT CASE NO. 23PB02365

NOTICE TO INTERESTED PERSONS

In the matter of the Estate of Robert Eugene Snider, deceased. Notice is hereby given that Jeffrey A. Kotka has been appointed as the personal representative of the above Estate. All persons having claims against the Estate are required to present them to the undersigned personal representative in care of the undersigned at-

torney at: 9400 SW Barnes Road, Suite 300, Portland, OR 97225, within four months after the date of first publication of this notice, as stated below, or such claims may be barred. All persons whose rights may be affected by the proceedings in this Estate may obtain additional information from the records of the Court, the personal

representative or the attorney for the personal representative. Dated and first published: May 24, 2023. Jeffrey A. Kotka, Personal Representative. Tammi M. Caress, OSB# 112962, Tasha Lyn Cosimo, OSB# 116120, Caress Law, PC, Attorneys for Personal Representative, 9400 SW Barnes Road, Suite 300, Portland, OR 97225.

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

The

PCC Training Center’s Fab Lab opens

The Portland Community College (PCC) OMIC Training Center’s Fab Lab is up and operating.

Community members and other dignitaries celebrated during a Grand Opening of the new lab, at 34001NE Wagner Court in Scappoose, Friday, May 12.

Attendees heard opening remarks from PCC OMIC Training Center

Director Patty Hawkins and Fab Lab Coordinator Sarah Burns. The Columbia Economic Team Executive

Director Paul Vogel shared his vision and enthusiasm for the growth of Columbia County in partnership with community driven spaces such as the Fab Lab.

Throughout the day, more than 100 community members visited the Fab

Lab, to experience demonstrations showing 3D printing, laser cutting and VR Equipment. Visitors also were able to make their own t-shirt, use the button maker, make a leaf print, and solder their own jitterbug toy.

The Fab Lab is a community focused center for learning and teaching about Science, Technology,

Advanced Manufacturing, Art and Design through hands-on activity. There will be STEAM events for kids, open community hours, themed workshops and trainings for specific equipment and software.

For more information, email sarah.burns@pcc. edu.

Breakthrough in computer chip energy efficiency

Chronicle Guest Article

Researchers at Oregon State University and Baylor University have made a breakthrough toward reducing the energy consumption of the photonic chips used in data centers and supercomputers.

The findings are important because a data center can consume up to 50 times more energy per square foot of floor space than a typical office building, according to the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE).

Data center

A data center houses an organization’s information technology operations and equipment; it stores, processes and disseminates data and applications. Data centers account for roughly 2% of all electricity use in the United States, the DOE says.

According to the U.S. In-

ternational Trade Commission, the number of data centers has risen rapidly as data demand has soared. In the United States, home to many firms that produce and consume vast amounts of data including

Facebook, Amazon, Microsoft and Google, there are more than 2,600 data centers. The advance by John Conley of the OSU College of Engineering, former Oregon State colleague Alan Wang,

now of Baylor, and OSU graduate students Wei-Che Hsu, Ben Kupp and Nabila Nujhat involves a new, ultraenergy-efficient method to compensate for temperature variations that degrade photonic chips. Such chips “will form the high-speed communication backbone of future data centers and supercomputers,” Conley said.

The circuitry in photonic chips uses photons – particles of light – rather than the electrons that course through conventional computer chips. Moving at the speed of light, photons enable the extremely rapid, energy-efficient transmission of data.

Reduce the energy

The issue with photonic chips is that up until now, significant energy has been required to keep their temperature stable and performance high. The team led by Wang,

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however, has shown that it’s possible to reduce the energy needed for temperature control by a factor of more than 1 million.

“Alan is an expert in photonic materials and devices and my area of expertise is atomic layer deposition and electronic devices,” Conley said. “We were able to make working prototypes that show temperature can be controlled via gate voltage, which means using virtually no electric current.”

Presently, Wang said, the photonics industry exclusively relies on components known as “thermal heaters” to fine tune the working wavelengths of high-speed, electro-optic devices and optimize their performance. These thermal heaters consume several milliwatts of electricity per device.

“That might not sound like much considering that a typical LED lightbulb uses 6 to 10 watts,” Wang said.

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“However, multiply those several milliwatts by millions of devices and they add up quickly, so that approach faces challenges as systems scale up and become bigger and more powerful.”

“Our method is much more acceptable for the planet,” Conley added. “It will one day allow data centers to keep getting faster and more powerful while using less energy so that we can access ever more powerful applications driven by machine learning, such as ChatGPT, without feeling guilty.”

The research was supported by Intel, NASA and the National Science Foundation and was published in Nature Scientific Reports.

Steve Lundeberg is a researcher and writer for Oregon State University Relations and Marketing. He may be reached at steve.lundeberg@ oregonstate.edu

15. Rattled on 20. Writer Asimov

Like icee

Not an original

*Call to Polo

Opposite of adore

Triangular road sign

*Capture it!

Speech defect

Drink like a cat (2 words) 33. Chilled (2 words)

*Balloon filler

U.K. art gallery

Place for a house plant

Get an F

Serape, alt. sp.

Jet follower

Water-heating appa-

1. Knee-related acronym

2. Make pretty (2 words)

3. Mushroom spore sacs

4. Shawn Mendes’ 2016 hit 5. Parts of a play

6. Secular 7. Commercial break clips 8. Fast food option 9. Looking for aliens org. 10. Get bacon?

11. H.S. math class 12. All Nippon Airways,

Bulwark

Hundred Acre Wood creator

Wing motion

Exude

STEVE LUNDEBERG

Courtesy from OSU

The circuitry in photonic chips uses photons – particles of light –rather than the electrons that course through conventional computer chips. Moving at the speed of light, photons enable the extremely rapid, energy-efficient transmission of data.

FRESHNER

From Page A1

The Chronicle: What do you hope the students take away from this music and from their experience in your class?

Freshner: One of my goals has always been to show kids that they are capable of so much more than they realize, whether it be in music or in life. Our society often sets the bar so low and I am here to show them that it doesn’t have to be that way. With highquality instruction in wellstructured learning environments, there is no limit to what they can accomplish.

The Chronicle: Briefly,

RIVERFRONT

From Page A1

“We want to ensure that the location meets the needs of our growing community,” she said.

The scope of work in the Mayer/Reed agreement from March 15 includes the following:

• Visiting the site and staking stage location based on 90% design plans.

• Taking site photography to be used as a basis for a “before” and “after” rendering, with a focus on the change to the stage location relative to the amphitheater seating.

• Creating a 3D site model that includes the stage, dance floor, berm, and Riverwalk railing. Align the model with site photos to show the proposed design in perspective.

• Photorendering a model with material colors and textures. The rendering style will match renderings created for Dec. 2021 Riverwalk public open house.

“The design was created to accommodate a larger audience, include a hard surface dance floor and storage structure for equipment, and retain views of the river,” King

what is your teaching background?

Freshner: This is my 15th year of teaching and my 5th year here at St. Helens Middle School. I

said. “The intimacy provided by the two-seat walls for small events balances with the need for additional capacity during large events.”

After reviewing the new design, the project will move into final construction docu ments in anticipation of bid ding on the project this spring, with construction to begin after the 2023 13 Nights on the River concert series concludes.

Gate Project

The City Council also has approved an agreement with Lower Columbia Engineering, LLC, to design a gateway arch feature at South 1st Street and St. Helens Street.

“No date is set yet to review proposed designs, but the proposal will be reviewed during a public meeting, and community feedback will be taken as part of the design process,” King said. “Through the design process, the city will engage with a stakeholder group for design feedback from a wide range of commu nity members.”

Construction of the gateway feature is part of the Streets and Utilities Extension Project which includes improvements to the South 1st Street and St. Helens Street intersection, including underground electrical utilities

have taught band at the elementary, middle, and high school levels as well as community college, where I also taught music composition and trumpet.

I also work as a music arranger, where I have written music for groups all across the country as well as for The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon, The New York Philharmonic, and the World Indoor Track and Field Championships.

Travis is married to Noelle Freshner, who is the Band, Leadership and Activities Director at St. Helens High School.

Who We Are is a frequent feature in The Chronicle, highlighting those in our community who are making a positive difference.

SESSION

From Page A1

Tuesday. “And I’m not sure yet, but I’ll be thinking about it.”

Meanwhile, Senate Minority Leader Tim Knopp, R-Bend, said Republicans were willing to return the final day of the session “to address the issues most important to Oregonians –homelessness, affordable housing, public safety, cost of living, job creation, and fully-funded education.”

“We are not interested in facilitating an agenda that is unlawful, uncompromising and unconstitutional,” Knopp said in a statement. “This has not changed.”

Republicans object to a few bills they want killed. These include House Bill

2002, a bill expanding abortion rights and access to transgender health care, and House Bill 2005, which deals with firearms and raises the minimum age for most gun purchases from 18 to 21 years old and allows local agencies to ban firearms in government-owned property. Knopp’s statement came out as Wagner was on the Senate floor.

“We’re here to do the people’s work,” Wagner told reporters afterwards. “All the bills should be considered. This is our democracy. People need to show up to the floor, and if they object to legislation, then come tell the voters, tell your citizens, tell your constituents. Really, the place to have that debate is on the floor.”

Wagner said Democrats

have no interest

Ten senators now have at least 10 unexcused absences, the threshold that makes them ineligible to serve another term of office under a constitutional amendment voters passed in 2022. If the walkout continues to June 25 and the session ends, Kotek could call lawmakers back in a special session to pass a budget.

The current budget ends June 30, but state agencies can continue operating without any disruptions through Sept. 15 because of a continuing resolution that keeps the current levels of funding in place if a budget isn’t set yet.

Senior reporter Julia Shumway contributed to this report.

Waterfront information session

“Waterfront redevelopment is a key focus of the city to support future economic growth, provide cohesive connection between city districts,

The City of St. Helens is hosting a waterfront project information session from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. Tuesday, June 6, at Wild Currant Catering, 201 S. 1st Street, St. Helens. The meeting is intended for businesses and residents in the project area to hear an update

City staff will give a brief presentation on the project, and there will be an opportunity for attendees to ask questions.

Topics will include the summer construction schedule, detours and traffic plans, parking in the Riverfront District,

Questions about the meeting can be sent to the city’s project team at waterfront@ sthelensoregon.gov. Follow the projects at thechronicleonline.com and in the Wednesday print editions of The Chronicle.

SINGING EAGLES OF MODOC OF MEDICINE CREEK

Courtesy from the City of St. Helens

This flyover shows the proposed St. Helens waterfront redevelopment site.

St. Helens Softball season in the books

WILL LOHRE Country Media, Inc.

The St. Helens softball season is over after a year full of successes and, ultimately, a tough loss in the state playoffs to Crook County.

For Head Coach Miranda Little, this season is the start of an exciting chapter for St. Helens softball’s future.

“We definitely surprised some people this year, and that definitely feels great,” Little said. “Winning league the first year being in a new league is amazing, and I see nothing but up in the years to come.”

The Lions won the 4A-1 Cowapa League in its first year since making the switch from the 5A-1 Northwest Oregon Conference. Their overall record within their league this year was an impressive 9-3, and the season was not short of highlights.

“Beating Scappoose will

always be a highlight for us because of the rivalry,” Little said. “But, I do think that getting that first-place seed, and having a home playoff game for the first time in at least eight years was a pretty major highlight. We were also given the opportunity to play on the Western Oregon softball field this year, and it was a

fun trip for the athletes and coaches!”

Tough goodbyes

As with any season’s end, there are always tough goodbyes. For the Lions, it will mean saying farewell to the seniors Ellie Austin- 3B, Cydney Brandt- LF, Ruby Nelson- C, and Cassidy

Parr- 2B. Little said that those would be big shoes to fill, not only with their on-field play but also their leadership within the team. Little said that this season was full of adjustments. Trying to find the right positions for players to excel in was one of her main focuses throughout the year. With the old guard leaving

and new faces coming in, next year will bring similar challenges.

“Every year, the team is different. You have different athletes that bring different strengths to the program,” Little said. “Just because an athlete was a starter in a certain position one year, it does not mean that that position will be the best position for them the next year. As a coach, you have to play the team you have, not the team you had.”

For Little and the Lions, the season was a success, even despite the tough 10-4 loss to Crook County on May 23. Little has come away with a lot of new ideas and strategies to help the team continue to rise in the coming seasons.

Hope for the future

With another year in the 4A division coming up, the team will only continue to get more comfortable with its new competition and

structure. Little said her hope is that this year’s playoff run is just a precursor for deeper state playoff runs in the future.

“This season was incredible. We changed the way that the program was run, and it was everything that we needed for this group of athletes. It took a few weeks to get things figured out, but it ended up working in our favor,” Little said. “Next year, we will be more ready with these new ideas and ready to go even further. Obviously, we would have wanted to still be playing and getting to continue our push in the state tournament this year but finishing somewhere between 9 and 16 in the state is awesome for our first year in the 4A.”

See St. Helens High School sports results at osaa.org and follow our feature coverage at thechronicleonline.com and in the Wednesday print editions of the Chronicle.

Columbia County Home & Garden Show 2023

Best of Columbia County

Courtesy photo from Miranda Little Little and her team celebrate winning the Cowapa League title.

Jon Campbell / Country Media, Inc.

Almost 190 pounds of non-perishable food were collected at the Columbia County Home & Garden Show and donated to the Columbia Pacific Food Bank.

Kelli Nicholson / Country Media, Inc.

Young Living Essential Oils representatives selling scented essential oils and other products at the Home & Garden Show.

James Yang / Country Media, Inc. Vendors pose at the Fat Dog Farms booth at the Home & Garden Show.