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Wednesday, October 28, 2020

Election voices of the community 2020

Readers’ Choice Awards

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Serving Columbia County since 1881

Lions plant painted rocks Photo courtesy of the Lincoln County School District

While some Oregon school districts have resumed limited in-person instruction, Columbia County school districts are continuing remote learning due to the increasing COVID-19 cases.

In-person classes still distant JEREMY C. RUARK jruark@countrymedia.net

School districts in Columbia County are preparing inperson classroom instruction plans, but those plans will not be put into place as soon as district officials had hoped. The St. Helens School District has not yet set a specific date to resume in-person instruction. St. Helens School District Superintendent Scot Stockwell sent a letter to parents late Thursday, Oct. 22, stating, “When we are able to design a plan that can safely staff and support limited in‐person Instruction for our most at risk students we will notify eligible students and families. “We are hopeful this can be the first phase to returning to school, yet we know it will take significant work as a community to bring our numbers down to allow in‐person instruction for all students.” Distance learning will continue until state required metrics are met to safely resume in-class room instruction, according to district officials. Scappose School District Superintendent Tim Porter sent a letter to parents on Tuesday, Oct. 20, suggesting that his district will likely not resume in-person instruction until January. “Our ability to fully open classrooms is dependent on health metrics in Columbia, Washington, and Multnomah Counties specifically, which in turn are dependent on our community following good practices, including the wearing of face coverings, Porter said. “We are likely months away from re-opening our school buildings in a broad manner, even for a hybrid/cohort model of learning.” See the St. Helens and Scapppose superintendents’ letters attached to this story at thechronicleonline.com.

See CLASSES Page A11

Daylight Savings Fall back: Nov. 1 Viewpoint: ..................A4 Letters: .....................A4-5 Calendar : ...................A5 Obituaries: ..................A6 TV Guide: ...................A7 Classified Ads: ............A8 Legals: ..........................A9 Garden Plots: ..............A9 Vol. 138, No. 44

Courtesy photo

The rock painters clockwise, starting at front, are Kathy Syrstad, Rosemary Jeffrey, Niki Kirsch, Jean Kirsch and Sue Mueller. JEREMY C. RUARK jruark@countrymedia.net

Although the COVID-19 pandemic has made meetings and activities more difficult, the St. Helens Lions Club members said they have

found ways to safely continue serving the community. The club’s latest project is painting and distributing colorful small rocks around the community. Lions Club members gather outside to work safely

A tray full of the Lions Club painted rocks.

on the painting rocks project seeking an eye-catching designs. On the back of the rocks, an encouraging message is added and selected rocks got an additional “surprise” included. A small sticker has encouraging

words on the back. The rocks are being placed in St. Helens’ City Parks and public areas for anyone passing by to enjoy, according to Lions Club member Kathy Syrstad. “Some of the rocks have

Courtesy photo

already been retrieved by the public,” Syrstad said. “We will periodically add more rocks.” As winter sets in, Syrstad

See ROCKS Page A8

Fairgrounds faces financial challenges MONIQUE MERRILL chronicle2@countrymedia.net

It’s been a long year of canceled events and reimagined celebrations, and the Columbia County Fair Board has felt the impact. “We are financially struggling,” said Julie Pelletier, vice president of the Columbia County Fairgrounds Fair Board and vendor coordinator.

She said the fairgrounds projected a $40,000 loss in revenue over the weeks that the fairgrounds sheltered wildfire evacuees in September. The grounds are on Saulser Road in St. Helens. “The loss was due to the fairgrounds not being available to incur any revenue during the emergency shelter situation,” she said. The most significant finan-

cial disruption, however, came from the cancelation of the annual fair and rodeo, which brought in over $90,000 in revenue in 2019. It’s the largest event hosted on the grounds, and brings thousands of visitors each year. Other events were reimagined, like the annual Chronicle photo

Tents were set up at the Columbia County Fairgrounds in St. Helens in September to house evacuees from regional wildfires.

See FAIR Page A3

JUSTICE WITH INTEGRITY COLUMBIA COUNTY CIRCUIT COURT JUDGE DISTRICT 19, POSITION 3 Endorsed by: The Honorable Judge Cathleen B. Callahan, Circuit Court Judge of Columbia County • Stephen D. Petersen, attorney in Rainier • Agnes M. Petersen, attorney in St. Helens • David B. Herr, attorney in Scappoose • Mary Anne Anderson, attorney in St. Helens Paid for by Clarke 4 Judge

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Voter turnout early, high

New COVID cases STAFF REPORT chroniclenews@countrymedia.net

Seven new cases of COVID-19 were reported in Columbia County on Monday, Oct. 26, according to the Oregon Health Authority (OHA). The day’s report ensures that the county is another week behind opening schools under the current metrics, which require Columbia County to report five or less new cases per week for three weeks. The county’s total number of cases reported since the onset of the pandemic is 266. Of those 266, eight are considered currently infectious as of data from Thurs-

day, Oct. 22, which means it’s been 10 or less days since the onset of symptoms. As of Thursday, Oct. 22, there have been 14 COVID-19 hospitalizations reported since the pandemic began, according to the Columbia County Public Health Department. Data from the county health department isolates cases within different zip codes. Within the county, St. Helens has reported by the highest total number of cases since the pandemic began, with 72 reported. Comparing the number of cases to the size of the community, however, Rainier has been hit the hardest, despite having reported 49 total cases since the onset of the

JEREMY C. RUARK jruark@countrymedia.net

pandemic. On Friday, Oct. 23, the OHA announced the highest single day number of new cases statewide since the start of the pandemic at 550. Three of those cases were in Columbia County. The OHA is urging Oregonians to rethink Halloween celebrations this year, amidst another spike in cases around the state.

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We heard our customers talking about their need for hay, and now we’ve got some! It took us forever to find a supplier. We looked and looked and looked, but finally found a guy out in Idaho. They’re USDA certified, so that means the USDA comes out and looks at their fields and then they have to cut it within ten days. So, we’ve got compressed bails of alfalfa, timothy, and hay. They’re pre-wrapped and they call these things “Grab and Go.” If you find yourself thinking, “Crap, I forgot to get hay for my animals but my truck is in the shop and I don’t want to get alfalfa all over my minivan,” then this is the stuff for you. It won’t shed all over your nice car if that’s what you happen to have that day. We’ve also got some chopped straw, and we do still have those little bunny bags of timothy, as well. Right now, I only have about two pallets on the ground here, but my storage

Wednesday, October 28, 2020

Voter turnout for the Nov. 3 General Election is at a higher level compared to the election of 2016, according to Columbia County Election Supervisor Don Clack. As of Friday, Oct. 23, 35.84% of voters in the county had submitted their ballots, 11 days ahead of the election. In 2016, only 18.72% of voters in the county had turned in their ballots, 11 days prior to the election. Statewide, 39.8% of voters have submitted their ballots as of Oct. 23. As to why ballots are coming in earlier and at a higher rate, Clack said there is high public interest. “This election has whipped up serious hype and people are being cautious in ensuring their vote is heard,” he said. In overseeing the election process, Clack said there would be several indicators of a safe and secure election. “They could include among others, registration integrity, reliable ballot delivery and return, accurate results, timely results, voter engagement, confidence and trust in the system,” he said. Voters are encouraged to use area drop off boxes to ensure their ballot arrives by election night, 8 p.m. Nov. 3. Columbia County voters

can drop off ballots up to 8 p.m. Nov. 3 at these drop sites: Clatskanie Library, 11 Lillich St., Clatskanie; Rainier City Hall, 106 B St. West, Rainier; Vernonia Public Library, 701 Weed Ave., Vernonia; Columbia County Courthouse, 230 Strand St., St. Helens; and at the Scappoose City Hall, 33568 E. Columbia Ave., Scappoose. Voters with questions or concerns about voting security can call the Attorney General’s Voter Protection Hotline at 971-673-4111. Staff at the Oregon Department of Justice review the

messages and return most calls within 24 hours on weekdays. “Voting by mail in Oregon is easy, secure and resistant to fraud,” Attorney General Ellen Rosenblum said. “That said, there are reports of misinformation around this year’s election, and voters may have urgent questions. I want Oregonians to know they can call our hotline and get a pretty quick call back.” Follow election coverage at thechronicleonline.com and in the Wednesday print editions of The Chronicle.

Jeremy C. Ruark / The Chronicle

There are a number of ballot drop off boxes located in communities around Columbia County.

$125,452 grant for food bank STAFF REPORT chroniclenews@countrymedia.net

projects and grants must be food, replace utility storage completed by the end of the carts, purchase additional year. food, replace a forklift and Demand for food aspurchase a refrigerated sistance has increased by truck. 25% since the onset of the The food bank distributes pandemic, according to to outlets across the county, CPFB’s request for funding. including Turning Point In the first several weeks Community Center Food the increase was 75% above Pantry, Head Start, the Clatsusual, but it leveled out over kanie Senior Center, Stone time. Due to the increase Soup Garden, H.O.P.E. of in demand, the food bank Rainier food pantry and the rented a storage unit to school summer meal prostore additional food for the gram, among many others. roughly 19 tons of food they The Columbia County delivered per week. Board of Commissioners educational seminars orthegive us a cal The money will be used approved grant request to rent another unit to store during its Oct. 21 meeting.

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Columbia County has approved the Columbia Pacific Food Bank’s (CPFB) request for $125,452 in funding as part of the county’s available money from the CARES Act. The county had origilbs., guestimating. nally committed to fundPoint being, if you all ing the purchase of a large keep telling us what you refrigerator/freezer for the want and need, (it might take organization to use in its new us a minute) but we’ll find building, however it wasn’t a way to make it happen. certain if the project would So, tell your friends - “Hey!Attend be completed before one of ourthe Dahlgren’s has hay!” end of the year. CARES Act

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building has the rest of it. We brought in 22 pallets all at once, so we’re definitely stocked! Of course, we’ve got the big bails of grass hay, still. Those are all local grass hay. I think they weigh about 60

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Wednesday, October 28, 2020

County woman faces sex abuse charges STAFF REPORT chroniclenews@countrymedia.net

Photo courtesy of Scappoose Rural Fire District

A Clatskanie area foster mother faces a grand jury indictment of sex abuse, according to the Columbia County Sheriff’s Office (CCSO). Brandy Hagen, 29, is indicted on 11 counts of sex abuse 2 and one count of initiating a false report. The investigation has been ongoing by the Columbia County Sheriff’s Office deputies for about three weeks, after a foster child disclosed

the inappropriate relationship, according a CCSO Facebook post. The relationship was ongoing for an estimated two months. Charges are pending in other jurisdictions in Oregon and Washington related to the Columbia County investigation. Hagan was taken into custody on Oct. 16, 2020 and transported to the Columbia County Jail on $31,500 bail. According to jail records, Hagen posted bail on Oct. 16. She is scheduled for a court arraignment at 10:45 a.m. Nov. 16.

Photo courtesy of CCSO

Brandy Hagen

Two people escaped from this late night fire in Scappoose Oct. 19.

2 occupants escape fire STAFF REPORT chroniclenews@countrymedia.net

Scappoose Rural Fire District reports two occupants of a single wide trailer escaped after the structure caught fire. Firefighters arrived at the scene of the blaze shortly after 10:30 p.m. Monday night, Oct. 19, at 32909 James Street along the Scappoose

FAIR

Vernonia Highway. The fire was declared under control in 45 minutes, but investigators said the trailer was a total loss. The cause of the blaze had not been determined as of Monday Oct. 26. Fire officials said the challenges to suppression operations were gathering crowds and power lines that kept coming down. “As a reminder, even

though it may seem exciting to watch, we remind the public to stay in their homes or leave the area for their own safety,” Scappoose Fire officials said in a Facebook post. The Red Cross assisted the occupants. Columbia River PUD, Columbia River Fire & Rescue and Scappoose Police assisted at the fire scene.

From Page A1

plant sale hosted by the fair. The sale was held over the weekend in July that the fair and rodeo were originally scheduled on. The proceeds went toward the upkeep of the fairgrounds and brought in $24,000. Usually the sale brings in around $34,000, Fair Board President Jamie Carr previously told the Chronicle. In addition to the plant sale, the fairgrounds hosted a drive-in concert in August. The fair board had scheduled another drive-in concert for September, but the spread of wildfires across the state changed those plans as they opened the grounds to shelter evacuees. Now, the fair board is trying to keep financially afloat and bring money in while observing COVID-19 safety guidelines. “It’s very difficult to host any type of fundraising, due to COVID,” Pelletier said. “With limited amount of people that can attend, we worry about breaking even financially; we can’t afford to lose any money.” The best way to support the fairgrounds is to use them, she said. The fairgrounds are available for rentals, though COVID-19 guidelines still must be observed. “It is very hard to keep the grounds operating financially under our current situation with relying on events and rentals to keep the budget in the green,” Pelletier said. “We suffered a huge loss not being able to have the fair.” Instead of focusing on a large, weeklong event to bring in funding for the year, the fair board must shift toward a year-long, revolving-door rental model to keep the grounds in the green, and Pelletier is open to other ideas. “If the public has any ideas for events or anything, really, please let us know,” she said. “What do you want, as a community, that we can provide?” Donation complication One source of recent funding to the fair board came

Photo courtesy of Columbia County

The Columbia County Fairgrounds was opened up to house evacuees and livestock displaced by regional wildfires.

in the form of a $15,000 donation from the Friends of the Fair nonprofit, but the fair board is uncertain about whether they can accept it or not. The nonprofit was awarded a grant from Business Oregon’s emergency small business grants and the county matched the grant, which was administered by the Columbia-Pacific Economic Development District. At the Columbia County Board of Commissioners meeting Wednesday, Oct. 21, that particular allocation of money was under discussion. Funding for the grant matches comes from the county’s share of Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act funding and in order to be reimbursed for spending used under the CARES Act, governments must follow certain rules on how funding can be used. “If they’re simply giving the fair board the $15,000 without any strings attached, it could be considered a replacement for lost revenues, which isn’t a legible expenditure, so there’s a possibility we couldn’t see reimbursement for that 15,000,” said Tiffany Johnson, assistant county counsel. The business grants were awarded based on the number of employees at each business. The nonprofit was listed as having between 11-15 employees, which accounted for the money it received and also made it the highest award given in that particular program. However, the nonprofit is run by volunteers and

not employees. Now, the county is unsure whether that money will be reimbursed because CARES Act funding is not intended to cover lost revenue, which the award could be viewed as since it does not have any employees— and therefore no wages to supplement. Johnson said that had the Friends of the Fair used the money to help with next year’s rodeo, or buying equipment, it could be viewed as operating costs, but an outright donation isn’t allowable. “It is a concern to us, we gave this money with the intent to help our business community,” Commissioner Alex Tardif said. “The largest grant was given to a nonprofit with 11 employees who don’t exist.” The county can choose to either rescind the award and put the money towards something else that would be covered under the CARES Act, or it can give the nonprofit $15,000 from another fund. The fair board will be discussing the donation at its next meeting in November. “The reimbursement of it is of interest to us,” Commissioner Margaret Magruder said. “If those funds are not reimbursed, it leaves us with a hole— or an opportunity, depending on how you look at it.”

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Wednesday, October 28, 2020

Viewpoints Time to review your Medicare coverage SEEMA VERMA Chronicle Guest Column

Medicare’s annual Open Enrollment season is underway, and I want to encourage all people with Medicare to review their current health and prescription drug coverage. Medicare Advantage plan premiums have fallen to historic lows, dropping an average of 34% over the last three years. Many plans are offering a new insulin benefit that limits the maximum cost to $35 for a 30-day supply. By shopping around, you may be able to save money and find a plan that better meets your needs. Open Enrollment runs through Dec. 7 each year. This is the time when you can change your Medicare health or drug coverage for the following year. You can switch to Original Medicare, or join or change a Medicare Advantage plan or Part D prescription drug plan. Any new coverage you select takes effect Jan. 1, 2021. Our updated Medicare Plan Finder (www.Medicare. gov/plan-compare) can help you compare the prices and benefits of Medicare Advantage plans, Original Medicare, Medicare drug plans, and Medigap policies. This mobilefriendly tool works on smart phones, tablets, and desktop computers. For beneficiaries who have created an account, we’ve personalized Plan Finder to generate a personal drug history so that prescription information will be auto-populated from personal Medicare claims history with accurate brand, dosage, and frequency information. But anyone can browse options without creating an account. Many Medicare drug plans and Medicare Advantage plans that include drug coverage are participating in a new insulin savings initiative. These plans now offer 30 days of insulin for $35 or less – an average

savings of $446-per-year on out-of-pocket costs. To find a plan with lower-cost insulin, look for “Insulin Savings” on Medicare Plan Finder. There are important differences between Original Medicare and Medicare Advantage. Here’s a brief summary: Original Medicare With Original Medicare, you can go to any doctor or hospital that accepts Medicare, anywhere in the U.S. In most cases, you don’t need a referral to see a specialist. For services covered under Medicare Part B, you usually pay 20% of the Medicare-approved amount after you meet your deductible. You also pay a monthly premium for Part B. If you choose to join a Part D drug plan, you’ll pay an additional monthly premium. There’s no yearly limit on what you pay out-of-pocket, unless you have supplemental coverage, such as Medicare Supplement Insurance, also known as Medigap. Medigap can help pay your remaining out-of-pocket costs (like your 20% coinsurance). Or you can use coverage from a former employer or union, or Medicaid. Original Medicare covers most medically necessary services and supplies in hospitals, doctors’ offices, and other health care settings. It doesn’t cover some benefits, including vision and most dental care. In most cases, you don’t have to get a service or item approved ahead of time for Original Medicare to cover it. Medicare Advantage Medicare Advantage Plans are offered by private insurers that provide your Medicare Part A and B benefits, in many cases through a managed network, similar to an HMO. In many cases, you’ll need to use doctors and other providers in the plan’s network and service area to get the low-

est out-of-pocket costs. HMO model plans won’t cover providers outside the plan’s network and service area unless certain exceptions apply, such as emergency services. You may need to get a referral to see a specialist, even if the specialist is in your plan’s network. Out-of-pocket costs for Medicare Advantage vary, and plans may have lower out-of-pocket costs for certain services. You may have to pay a monthly plan premium in addition to your monthly Part B premium. Some plans may have a $0 premium or may help pay all or part of your Part B premiums. Plans have a yearly limit on what you pay out-of-pocket for services covered under Medicare Part A and Part B. Once you reach your plan’s limit, you pay nothing for services covered by Part A and Part B for the rest of the year. Plans must cover all medically necessary services that Original Medicare covers. Most plans offer extra benefits that Original Medicare doesn’t cover, such as some vision, hearing, dental, benefits, as well as adult day health services, caregiver support, in-home support, and homebased palliative care. In some cases, you have to get a service or item approved ahead of time for the plan to cover it. If you’d like free, personalized counseling on what Medicare options are right for you, call the nonprofit State Health Insurance and Assistance Program, or SHIP. To find the SHIP program in your state, go to https:// www.shiptacenter.org or call 1-800-MEDICARE (1-800633-4227).

Vote online at thechronicleonline.com

Seema Verma is the administrator for Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). The CMS is part of the United States Department of Health and Human Services.

Clarification: The Oregon Department of Education (ODE) has clarified its release about on-time graduation rates published in the Oct. 21 edition of The Chronicle. The graduation rates for 2019-20 have not been released yet. The rate in the profiles is for the 2018-19 year. It doesn’t state that in the column heading of the media file we sent, but it is stated on the profiles themselves which are now available on the ODE website. See the St. Helens update as an example with this story at thechronicleonline.com. The ODE apologizes for the confusion. The graduation rate for the Class of 2020 will be released in January. We are happy to set the record straight.

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Voices of the Community Support for Dudzic In 2016 Columbia County decided to vote conservative. At a time that was relatively calm by today’s standards, up and down the ballot in Columbia County, Republicans won the support of voters not looking to upset the status quo. However, 2020 is not like 2016. Oregon is now facing multiple crises all at once: a health emergency, an economic fallout, environmental destruction and racial unrest. Although national politics receive the majority of news coverage, local politics are just as important, if not more. And on Nov. 3 I hope you exercise your franchise, and I hope that you vote for Brandee Dudzic for Columbia County Commissioner. When I first met Brandee over the summer, I knew immediately that she was the fighter and leader we need in our community. Brandee calls herself a neighbor, veteran and mother, but she is so much more. After we began talking, her passion, empathy, intelligence and honesty immediately shone through. Walking away from that conversation, I was confident that with her unique experiences, genuine leadership, and relentless determination, she will represent our community honorably as we face such difficult times.

To all the other young adults out there, the ones that historically do not vote, it is time to make our voices heard. Senator Mark Hatfield, who long represented our state before I was even born, once said, “Our problem is not the lack of knowing; it is the lack of doing.”

Clarke deserves Brad cares the vote about us

I’ve been a supporter of Brandee Dudzic for Columbia County Commissioner since the primaries, and here’s why: I know what poor leadership, mismanagement, and a toxic work environment can do to a county. As a county employee, I watched so many folks lose the love they had for their jobs, grow frustrated with how they were treated, and even leave their jobs like I did. I know that Brandee is the type of leader that we need in this county. Brandee has had the courage to fight against structures and systems that don’t benefit working folks. She works tirelessly to increase accessibility to services and local government. She will prioritize the needs of real people first, not her own interests or the interests of large corporations.

Watching the stream of people returning their ballots to the courthouse is an uplifting sight. Voting is the opportunity to make necessary change. It is time for a change. Voters in Columbia County possess common sense and can determine fact from spin. Michael T. Clarke possesses the qualities of integrity, compassion, accountability, respect and excellence in his service to others. Michael is an involved member of the community and will continue to build relationships in a positive manner. Communication with the County Commissioners, colleagues, employees and community partners needs to come from a place of integrity and respect with a commitment to understanding that the community expects us to be professional. It is often difficult to change the status quo but Columbia County deserves the best. Michael has acted with respect and integrity professionally and personally at all times. He is intelligent, energetic, a successful business owner, a proud member of the community, and most importantly, will be a role model for professionalism.

Lori Baker St Helens

Cathleen B. Callahan Hillsboro

Robert Backus Warren

Vote for Dudzic

The Chronicle

I am a local business owner and I will be voting for State Representative Brad Witt. I appreciate that Brad takes a personal interest in the lives of his constituents and supports local businesses like mine. It’s been a challenging year, and it’s comforting to know that I have a representative in Salem who really get what it takes to be effective for us at home. When thousands of Oregonians were let down by the Employment Department, it was Brad who stood up and called for an investigation. It’s Brad who is drafting a bill to give businesses an avenue for pandemic interruption insurance. And, it’s Brad who I will be voting to reelect as state representative. Carol Cross St. Helens

Dudzic shares my values With a local elections coming up, I think it’s important to do your research on each candidate to find who shares your values best, and when it comes to Columbia County Commissioner, Position 1, mine was Brandee

Dudzic. She understands very real issues going on in the county and in the country and she will work tirelessly to fix them. Her pro-worker and pro-environment policies have earned her numerous endorsements from local farms and shops, local unions and even nationwide climate and veteran organizations such as the Sunrise Movement, Sierra Club, and Vets for the People. Brandee is also a veteran, and as a vet she has founded Repatriate Our Patriots, a group that helps deported veterans come back to their homes in the U.S. I believe no other candidate for County Commissioner, Position 1, cares as much about their county and the people in it as Brandee Dudzic. Ross Cahill St. Helens

Follow the money Something I’ve noticed everyone agrees on is that big money in campaign finance is bad. There is a way to combat big money in politics: Do your research. Instead of voting for the familiar face you’ve become accustomed to seeing on political signs, or an ‘R’ or ‘D’ next to their name, check

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out the candidates. Take for example our race for judge of the Circuit Court, 19th District, Position 3. Michael Clarke, clearly has an extensive campaign budget with street signs and a snappy Facebook page. Meanwhile the incumbent, Jenefer Grant does not. Clarke won the primary by less than 1%, despite having relatively little trial experience for someone running to be a judge. Sure, he’s a local guy. But is he the guy just because he speaks platitudes like, things aren’t right, and, we can do better? Jenefer Grant has been an attorney since 1992. She began practicing law in Columbia County in 1996 and has been serving as our judge since 2007 (almost as long as Clarke has been an attorney), developing relationships with county stakeholders like the sheriff’s office, and the juvenile department, working to settle cases to avoid costly and drawn-out trials, and, has endorsements from people who really know what it’s all about. So who’s the best for the job? Money in politics works. Our only defense is to make educated decisions ourselves. Vote with your brain, not your gut, bearing in mind the contents of each. H. Weston Drumheller Warren SUBSCRIPTION RATES: 1 month in/out county: $8 One year in county: $60 One year out of county: $80 $3 senior discount for yearly sub

CONTACT US • Phone: (503) 397-0116 • Fax: (503) 397-4093 • Website: www.thechronicleonline.com • Editorial: chroniclenews@countrymedia.net Advertising: atrull@countrymedia.net or chronicleclassifieds@countrymedia.net • FOLLOW US • facebook.com/sthelenschronicle or twitter.com/shchronicle 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 1 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.

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Wednesday, October 28, 2020

Voices of the Community Continued Dudzic brings value to county position I am writing to encourage folks to vote for Brandee Dudzic for Columbia County Commissioner, Position 1. I am a retired 911 operator and I know what it takes to make a community safe. Brandee’s passion for investing in our youth and most vulnerable community members will pay huge dividends. I was so touched when Brandee opened up the law library for unsheltered folks on a snowy night before the warming shelter had opened. We need more elected officials that lead with empathy and compassion. Brandee has given to her community and her country as well, serving in the National Guard as an army field medic. They learn how to help others under some of the most grueling circumstances possible, putting their lives at risk to save others. She has learned to sacrifice for the greater good. But Brandee is more than just a good and kind person, she is highly intelligent and extremely hard working. Any person who can work full time, while obtaining her master’s degree and raising three kids has the

multitasking skills needed to be successful in government. Brandee’s degrees are in social science and conflict resolution. I can’t think of any better expertise to have as an elected official than the study of relationships and resolving conflict. I hope you will join me in voting for Brandee Dudzic for County Commissioner, Position 1. Georgiana Gordon St. Helens

Dudzic cares for community

Rebekah Mathers St. Helens

I am writing to encourage everybody to vote for Brandee Dudzic for Columbia County Commissioner, Position 1. With all the news about the poor leadership, toxic work environment and culture of secrecy in our county, I think we are all ready for a change. It’s pretty telling that the union for the employees of the Columbia County Courthouse chose to endorse Brandee, even though her opponent’s office is in the courthouse. This is also the union that represents the employees of the road department, another department that has been affected by mismanagement within the

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county. AFSME Local 697 has endorsed Brandee Dudzic for County Commissioner because they trust that she will have the safety and wellbeing of county employees in mind when making policy. Brandee is the fresh face we need here in Columbia County. She is not beholden to anyone but her constituents— she doesn’t take gas, coal, oil or timber money. If you want an elected official that actually cares about you and your family, elect Brandee Dudzic for County Commissioner.

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Clarke is ready to be judge I knew Mike Clarke before he started his law firm. I would sit with Mike and discuss his goals and legal career, and I would make suggestions about which areas of law he should specialize in, knowing these were the easier types of cases to open and close. Instead of taking my suggestions, Mike chose to practice in the areas of law that would allow him to have a clear conscious and make a positive difference while helping people navigate their own lives. Mike and I would speak on occasion about legal matters and things that angered me about these situations. I would express my desire to punish the wrong doers, but Mike always kept calm and would steer me from my vindictive thoughts and direct me to finding solutions, trying to help me see what is right/fair. I know Mike did a great deal of soul searching before deciding to run for this position. Would he tank his career by running against an incumbent in such a small community? Does it make sense to leave behind a business that took so much time, effort and heart to build? I know he started his campaign so he could make a bigger difference for his community, a community he grew up in, that he is now raising his own children in. When he explained his decision, he was quite clear: Law is about safeguarding the people and

community he loves the most. Vote for Clarke. Bradley Melville Scappoose

Cemeteries need support As most are aware, mail-in ballots will soon be delivered to residents in Oregon for the election on Nov. 3. On the ballot for patrons of the Rainier/Clatskanie Cemetery District will be Measure 5-283 which is a request to add a nickle per thousand to support the Cemetery District. For some unknown reason, this additional important financial support has failed in the past. It is important to support the Cemetery District with a yes vote. Why? The fence at the Hudson Cemetery has been subject to hit and run drivers who leave the scene. This has happened five times this year and only one driver stopped and had insurance. The fence remains unrepaired, not to mention unsightly, until funds are available next year to reconstruct the damaged white fence. The levy will support upkeep, maintenance, exhaustive labor, and some necessary equipment replacement, as well as, usual and ordinary bills and expenditures for all 12 local cemeteries covering over 39 acres with over 13,000 grave sites occupied and unoccupied. Is this too much to ask to keep the grounds well groomed and presentable? As an example, it would cost a resident about $15.00 additional per year in a $300,000 residence for the five year levy. Let’s support our local cemeteries, staff (of one), and volunteers. Vote yes on Measure 5-283 by Nov. 3. Paul and Judy Nys Rainier

I stand with county employees I worked for Columbia County for 16 years. I left the county a couple of years be-

fore Casey Garrett was hired so I didn’t have interactions with him through my county employment. I have had interactions with him through parks meetings. I want to defend those county employees that have been made out to be disgruntled, not putting much effort in their work, or “entitled.” I worked with those employees of facility maintenance and they were always responsive to the needs of the county, they did excellent work, and they got along well with all other employees and the public. If you needed something fixed or changed, the job got done. In the Parks Department, Lori Baker was an excellent employee and she was on top of getting and keeping the parks in great shape. If there was a maintenance issue with any of the parks, she would make sure that work order was taken care of and the issue was repaired. I enjoyed working with all of the county employees, they were all dedicated to doing a good job. Since Casey Garrett has taken over parks, I’ve noticed in the last couple of years that deterioration at the parks, maintenance isn’t being done and the public is being put in harm’s way. Restrooms aren’t being cleaned daily, work orders have sat for a year. It saddened me to hear that the county employees were being discredited by Garrett. I wanted to stand with the county employees. Gloria Rice St. Helens

Witt invests in our community I am voting to reelect Brad Witt for State Representative. There is no comparison between the candidates; Brad has the experience, the education and the empathy to do the job. He teaches civic involvement to children and teens in Columbia County by being both a role model and a human being truly interested in keeping youth programs like 4-H alive. He values the country lifestyle. Year after year I have seen Brad at the Columbia County Fair walking the barns, talking to

the 4-H kids, and spending money at the auction. I personally remember Brad Witt taking the time to ask me about my 4-H dairy goat project and I have seen him support 4-Her’s by purchasing their animals at the Columbia County Fair auction. Brad is a staunch supporter of 4-H. He understands how life-changing this program can be for our youth because he was a 4-H member himself. Brad understands that being a representative is like having a 4-H project. It’s more than flag-waving — it’s hard work and requires dedication. I hope you’ll join me in supporting our most dedicated representative: Brad Witt. Chava Wollin St. Helens

Our cemeteries I am imploring voters living within the Rainier Cemetery District (Clatskanie, Rainier and all area in between) to vote YES on the minuscule increase they are currently seeking. $0.05/$1,000 equals $12.50 per year on a home assessed at $250,000. Twelve cemeteries for one man to maintain, with deteriorating equipment, is unfathomable to me, let alone the fact that this one individual also has to keep the burial records and complete all paperwork required in the burying of our dead. This tax rate has not been increased for decades and I would guess that we have some of the cheapest plot prices in the state. The Rainier Cemetery District Board of Directors has been incredibly frugal and efficient through the years, but continuing to fulfill the needs of our communities, as well as the laws required of them by the state on such little revenue is pretty much impossible. When no one is willing to lead such a hopeless mission, or work in such demanding conditions, what do we do then? A nickel per $1,000 of value is little to ask to fix this situation. Please join me in voting YES on the cemetery tax rate increase. Kathy Engel Clatskanie

Community Calendar

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• 1 p.m. - 4 p.m. Halloween Drive-Through Boo Trick-orTreat from your vehicle at the St. Helens Recreation Center, 1810 Old Portland Rd. in St. Helens. Pre-registration is required. This family-friendly experience is designed to allow you to celebrate al the booths, tricks and treats of Halloween from the comfort and safety of your car. The event is free but pre-registration is required. Visit this link to register: https://sthelens.maxgalaxy.net/

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Home.aspx. For more information, call 503-366-8208. • 5 p.m. - 7 p.m. Ghoulish Grab ‘n Go at the Columbia County Sheriff’s Office located at 901 Port Ave in St. Helens on Halloween. Celebrate a safe Halloween this year and come by to grab some candy. For more information, call 503-366-4611. 5 p.m. - 7 p.m. Scappoose Police Department DriveThru Trick-or-Treating at the Scappoose Police Department, 33568 E Columbia Ave, Scappoose. Police said they will take precautions to keep everyone safe. For more details, call 503543-3114. Nov. 10 • 5:30 p.m. Scappoose Bay Marine Park Advisory Committee meeting at the Port of Columbia County, 100 E St. in Columbia City. Call 503-397-2888

for more information. On Going Events • The Spirit of Halloweentown. Old Town District in St. Helens. See the entire event schedule and locations at www. discovercolumbiacounty.com, www.spiritofhalloweentown. com and www.instagram.com/ spiritofhalloweentown/ • Lotus Collection Operators of the Lan Su Chinese Garden in Portland invite the public to see the largest lotus collection in the Pacific Northwest. Known as “he hua” in Mandarin, the lotus is a symbol of purity in Chinese culture and the most popular summer bloom in southern China. Lan Su Chinese Garden is one from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily and is located at 239 NW Everett Street in Portland. For more details, visit www. lansugarden.org.

Wednesdays and Sundays • 7 p.m. - 8 p.m. Resonate Recovery 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. To list an event in the Community Calendar, email details with a phone number that may be published for anyone that might have questions, to chronicleclassifieds@ countrymedia.net, or call 503-397-0116.

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Seeking Planning Commission Applicants The City of St. Helens is currently recruiting for applicants for the Planning Commission. The Planning Commission is an advisory board to the City Council. It is also a quasi-judicial decision-making body. Primarily, the Commission focuses on land use, zoning, and development regulations inside the city limits of St. Helens and within the Urban Growth Area. The Commission generally meets on the second Tuesday of each month at 7 p.m. The length of the meeting varies depending on the subject matter to be reviewed and discussed. If you are interested in volunteering for this very important Commission, please go to the City’s website at www.sthelensoregon.gov, click on How do I? and then select Find Forms to download a Boards & Commissions Application. Or you may call City Recorder Kathy Payne at 503.366.8217 to have a form mailed or emailed to you.

The deadline to submit an application is Friday, November 20, 2020. Columbia County’s trusted local news source

www.thechronicleonline.com

Wednesday, October 28, 2020

Obituaries Albert “Bruce” Cave

Donna Lee Holz

Nov. 1, 1934 ~ Oct. 24, 2020 Bruce was born on Nov. 1, 1934 in Snyder, Texas. He was the second of thirteen children. He and his family moved to the Yankton area and he attended school in St. Helens. He has always loved sports, hunting, fishing and all things outdoors. He also served in the U.S. National Guard. He retired from the Boise Cascade Mill after 43 years. He enjoyed gardening and selling firewood right up until the end. He was very active in the Creekside Baptist Church. He is survived by his sons, Larry, Tim and Ken Cave; daughters, Dani Cave Weltsch and Cisi MacDonald; nine brothers and sisters; nine grandchildren; 16 great grandchildren; and one greatgreat grandchild.

There will be a graveside service at 2 p.m. on Nov. 9, 2020 at Bethany Memorial

Feb. 19, 1934 ~ Oct. 8, 2020

Cemetery in Warren, Oregon behind the Bethany Lutheran Church.

Donna Jean Cherry

Dec. 30, 1943 ~ Oct. 12, 2020 Well mom, Alzheimer’s took you away from us on Oct. 12, 2020. It robbed all of us many years of laughing, joking and just having a good time with you. As the tears run down my face writing this, I am not only sad and heartbroken, I am angry about it too. I know you would not want me to live this way so I will try to get past it by telling everyone how you lived your life and would want us to live ours. You were born on Dec. 30, 1943 in Chicago, Illinois. As a child, I hear you were a happy, spontaneous, adventurous girl who loved to read and were a good storyteller who would entertain everyone at the Sunday family dinners. You were quite the seamstress too and created many outfits to wear. You loved to sing in choir and were proficient at the flute and piano which you played throughout high school and college. You were so wonderful, four sisters followed. Poor grandpa, what did he do to deserve that?! You taught them how to ride their bikes, how to dress up in grandma’s clothes, and your quiet and calming demeanor helped with the stresses of being in such a large family. In 1957, you all moved to Washington state. The family bounced around a bit, but finally ended up in Yakima, Washington. You went to St. Paul’s Elementary, and graduated from Central Catholic High School. In the early 1960’s, grandpa and grandma started a successful pizza place called Pizza Pete/ Mr. C’s, where you worked too. You also went to Yakima Valley College during this time and got a two-year degree. Also working at the pizza place was this hand-

some delivery driver who swept you off your feet. In 1966 you married dad in Yakima on a Saturday, moved to Scappoose, Oregon the next day, and he started working at Boise Cascade in St. Helens on that Monday. Whew, talk about a whirlwind change in your life eh? You then had three children: Chad in 1967, Pat in 1969, and Teresa in 1972. We were everything to you. You always wanted the best for us, and you did anything you could to make sure we were happy, content, and safe. You were such a good cook too, and your pies were to die for. Oh, how I miss your meals! You also were a devout Catholic and you took us to St. Fredericks every Sunday throughout our childhood years, and tried to instill in us to be thoughtful, kind, and unselfish. We put you through a lot as we were growing up; I am not sure how you put up with us. This is the last time I get to say this, “Thanks for bringing us into this world and not taking us out of it when you sometimes felt like it, we appreciate it”. As us kids got into our teens, you went back to school to become an LPN.

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You worked at a hospital in Longview and a few other places for several years, eventually retiring from that to do a little traveling. You even went to Jerusalem to serve the people as a nurse a couple of times until it got too dangerous. We were impressed that you would put your life in jeopardy for others you did not know. You loved to go hiking around the Northwest, and we had some good ones together. You always had to tell us to slow down and enjoy the hike, this isn’t some race we had to win. When you got Alzheimer’s, it slowed you down a bit, but it didn’t break your spirit. At the memory facility you were quite the hit when the music started playing. You would get up, start singing and try to get the other residents to get up and dance. You were even successful sometimes! You were quite the comedian there too: always telling jokes and making funny motor noises as you cruised around the place. The staff loved you there. I cannot believe you’re gone. I miss you terribly mom, and I know everyone else does too. Thanks for being so good to us while you were here. You are irreplaceable to us. You are survived by your four sisters, Gail McKenzie, Alane deVilla, Liane Koester, and Renee Peck; your three children and Donald Cherry; two grandchildren, Kyi Wright and Ashlee McCoy; and many nieces and nephews. We will miss you very much and I hope we can all live like you did—as a kind, honest, positive, and compassionate person who put herself before others. Goodbye Mom.

Donna Lee Holz 86, of St. Helens, Oregon, passed away on Oct. 8, 2020. She was born on Feb. 19, 1934 in Jefferson City, Missouri to the late Valetia and Floyd Carter. Donna graduated from St. Helens High School. She was an excellent student, artistic and had a beautiful singing voice. On May 3, 1952, Donna married Leonard Holz. Together they had three daughters, Shirley Holz-(Ralph) Lundeen, Leona (Michael) Culp and Laura Wellons. After retirement Donna and Leonard loved to travel in the travel trailer across the U.S. and Canada. Her husband Leonard preceded her in death in 2007. Donna created beauty throughout her lifetime. She loved to garden, growing beautiful flowers and vegetables. Donna created exquisite crocheted bedspreads and piecework, and enjoyed sewing, quilting, knitting and painting. Her soprano voice soared in choir, in Sweet Adelines performances and in church.

Donna’s baking was also memorable. Her daughters’ friends all remember fresh from the oven cinnamon rolls and homemade cookies after school. Donna is survived by her daughters; two sisters, Louise Uttinger and Sheila Hutton; four grandchildren, Jeremy Harris, Melissa Lawson, Elizabeth Culp and Sophia Wellons; and one great grandson Ryan Harris. Our family wants to thank Rose Linn Care Center staff in West Linn, Oregon for their wonderful loving care of Donna. They treated her

with such dignity and respect for all of the time she resided there. Also, our thanks to Hospice Care of the Northwest for helping make Donna’s transition to her next journey comfortable and for supporting our family at such a sad time. Due to the ongoing pandemic, a private graveside service will be held at Bethany Lutheran Cemetery in Warren, Oregon. Pastor Ingrid Aderhold will be officiating. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Donna’s name to the Columbia Pacific Food Bank in St. Helens.

Nona “Cookie” Lucas

Feb. 15, 1951 ~ Oct. 15, 2020 Nona “Cookie” Lucas of Scappoose, Oregon passed away on Oct. 15, 2020 in a Hospice Care facility in Longview, Washington at the age of 69. She was born Feb. 15, 1951 in Portland, Oregon. Nona graduated from Roosevelt High School. She was a Scappoose resident for over 30 years. Nona worked as a driver for Knapton Tug and Barge for several years before taking a courier position for Kaiser Permanente where she delivered important medical information for over 18 years. She transferred to medical records before she finally retired. Her favorite hobby was fishing. Taught by her dad

and her uncle, she was always looking to get her line wet. She was an avid fisherman who would fish whenever she could for most of the year. Her favorite fishing was for sturgeon on the Columbia

River. With rod in hand and a blanket for warmth, she would reel in sturgeon most days she fished. Nona is survived by her husband Gene Lucas of Scappoose, Oregon; sons, Scott Higgs of Rockaway Beach, Oregon and Ivan Higgs of Scappoose, Oregon; four step kids, Jody, Carey, Ray and Jake; nine grandchildren; and one great grandchild. A viewing will be held from 4 p.m. – 6 p.m. on Oct. 26, 2020 at Columbia Funeral Home. A graveside service being held at 1:30 p.m. on Oct. 27, 2020 at Columbia Memorial Gardens in Scappoose, Oregon. Please sign our online guestbook at www. columbiafh.com.

Teresa Holmes

Feb. 14, 1956 ~ Oct. 10, 2020 Teresa Holmes, loving daughter, sister, wife, mother, aunt and grandmother, passed away Oct. 10, 2020 at the age of 64. She was born Feb. 14, 1956 and is preceded in death by her parents, Sam and Donna Finney. Teresa had a love for life and family like you read about in novels. She loved to hike, camp, fish and go hunting with her husband Dan and their son Lee and his family. She was always there, no matter what, for her family and friends. She loved her job working the kitchen at St. Helens School District. She

Simple Direct Cremation $795 Simple Direct Burial $995 Church Funeral $2,965

enjoyed seeing all the kids that passed through her line daily, some to just say hi.

Teresa is survived by her husband of 45 years Dan; son Lee and his wife Natasha; three grandchildren, Audrey, Ava and Ethan; sisters, Janice and Sharon; brothers, Thomas and David; and numerous nieces and nephews. Services will be held at 11 a.m. on Nov. 14, 2020 at Branches Church in Scappoose, Oregon. In lieu of flowers we ask that you hug your children, grandchildren and family. Take a walk in the woods or on the beach and remember Teresa.

Portland 832 NE Broadway Portland, OR 97232 Phone: 503 783-3393

Discounted price, caskets, urns & other memorial items.

215 S 1st Street St. Helens • 503-410-5280 • www.2csvendormall.com

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