SHC1221

Life in Columbia County

Police seek 4 individuals in theft investigation

St. Helens Police are seeking public help in finding four suspects involved in a grab-and-dash theft from the St. Helens Walmart.

St. Helens Police Department (SHPD) officers responded to the report of a theft in progress at the St. Helens Walmart at 2295 Gable Road at at approximately 10:55 p.m. Monday Dec. 12.

Two male and two female suspects left the store with three shopping carts filled with stolen merchandise, according to SHPD.

One of the male suspects was seen on security footage pushing an employee out of his way when the suspects were confronted by staff as they left the store. The suspects fled the scene prior to police arrival in a blue Chevy Suburban towing a trailer. An area check was conducted, but police were unable to locate the vehicle.

If you have any information about this incident or know the identity of the suspects, you are asked to contact the St. Helens Police Department at 503-397-1521.

Highway 30 landslide illustrates Oregon danger

JEREMY C. RUARK Country Media, Inc.

Work continues this week at the site of a massive landslide along Highway 30 just north of Clatskanie.

“We expect to keep scaling rock into the holidays, and getting more lanes open is the goal, but we don’t have an estimated date for that,” Oregon Department of Transportation (ODOT) representative David House said. “There is so much work that it will continue even after lanes are open to traffic.”

The event

The highway has been open to a single flagged lane since early December following a massive landslide.

The slide started at approximately 10:30 p.m. Tuesday, Nov. 29, about 100 feet above the roadway, according to House. It was about 110-feet wide and sent at least 1,800 cubic yards of mostly rock onto the highway.

Long-term fix

House added that in general, there is no permanent way to prevent landslides.

“Western Oregon is geologically active – it’s always on the move, gradually eroding toward the ocean, which moves the land and causes erosion and occasional landslides,” he said. “We adapt the highways as the land moves, and the work we do buys more time between events.”

Geologists with the Oregon Department of Geology and Mineral and Industries (DOGAMI) caution

“This

WILL LOHRE Country Media, Inc.

It’s been over a year since Ricky and Kate Linares opened their St. Helens Grocery Outlet in August 2021, and they are proud to report that the business has been going strong.

“Everything’s going amazing,” Kate Linares said. “And I feel like the community has really taken to us and we’ve really taken to them.”

“We feel like we’ve hit the sweet spot where we live, too, because we live here in St. Helens in town, and our neighborhood is great,” Ricky Linares added. “Just the community in general, kind of like to Kate’s point, it’s been really cool, and we see so many regulars every day, too, so that’s been a really nice highlight.”

Grocery Outlet is a larger corporate chain; however, their franchises are locally owned and operated, and the Grocery Outlet in St. Helens is the Linares family business. The 12,000-square-foot Grocery Outlet employs 20 workers and offers a variety of items and brands at affordable rates.

Ricky Linares has a retail and grocery background, and he and Kate underwent extensive training

from Grocery Outlet to prepare to run the business. However, the first year has offered its fair share of challenges, especially as the pan demic persists.

“So,

part of the road has long had landslide warning signs.”

Still going strong at Grocery Outlet more than a year in

“It was difficult, honestly, to put doing it. But to do it in crazy times

Courtesy from SHPD Video surveillance captured what police say is the suspect vehicle. See more photos with this story at thechronicleonline.com.

Kelli Nicholson / Country Media

A striking and colorful sunrise from the shoreline of the Columbia River at St. Helens early Friday morning, Dec. 16, captured by Chronicle team member Kelli Nicholson. Look carefully to see the soaring bird in the center of the photo. Look for more Life in Columbia County photos at thechronicleonline.com.

Large road equipment has been brought to the site to move the debris from the roadway. Specially trained crews propelled down the side of the steep cliff to help remove rocks, trees and other debris

to stabilize the hillside. The landslide was likely due to rain and strong winds on trees with roots deep in rocky hillside.

section of US Highway 30 crosses an area where land-

slides have long been part of the geology, often triggered by heavy rainfall,” ODOT stated earlier.

this

Courtesy from ODOT

The massive slide occurred Nov. 29 just north of Clatskanie along Highway 30.

There is so much work that it will continue even after lanes are open to traffic.

~ David House, ODOT

nares said. “You would

Jeremy C. Ruark / Country Media, Inc.

Ricky and Kate Linares, center, their children, South Columbia County Chamber of Commerce representatives and others open the new St. Helens Grocery Outlet with a ribbon cutting ceremony Aug. 12, 2021

The American Automobile Association (AAA) projects 112.7 million Americans, 33.8% of the population, will travel for the Christmas and New Year holidays.

This is up 3.3% from 2021 and closing in on prepandemic numbers. About 1.6 million Oregonians will pack their sleighs for a holiday trip.

2022 is expected to be the third-busiest year for holiday travel since AAA began tracking in 2000, only trailing 2019 and 2018.

Bend, Lincoln City, Newport and the Medford area are among the top 10 regional holiday destinations, according to the AAA. While about 90% of travelers will drive to their holiday destinations, air travel is seeing a jump this year, up 14% compared to 2021. The holiday travel period is defined as Friday, December. 23 through Monday, January 2.

“With Christmas Day and New Year’s Day falling on Sundays, many are taking long weekends to celebrate the holidays,” AAA Oregon/ Idaho Senior Vice President of Travel Doreen Loofburrow said. “And with hybrid work schedules, we’re seeing more flexibility with the days people are traveling because they can work remotely at their destinations.”

“Despite roller coaster gas prices and a bumpy year for flights, people are ready to wrap up the year with a holiday trip,” AAA Oregon/ Idho Public Affairs Director Marie Dodds said. “This will be one of the busiest times for holiday travel in the last two decades. Travelers should expect busy roads and crowded airports this holiday season.”

Most will travel by car

AAA projects nearly 102 million Americans (90.4% of travelers) will drive to their holiday destination. This is up 2% compared to 2021. Travel by car this year is on par with 2018 but shy of 2019 when 108 million Americans drove out of town for the holidays, the highest year on record.

In Oregon, roughly 1.4 million will drive.

Air travel increases despite higher ticket prices

Holiday air travel will rise by 14% this year with nearly 7.2 million Americans flying to their holiday destinations. AAA expects the number of people taking holiday flights this year will come close to matching 2019 when 7.3

million Americans traveled by air.

Approximately 151,000 Oregonians will travel by air.

In all, 6.4% of holiday travelers will fly to their destinations.

Air travel costs more this holiday season. AAA finds that the average lowest airfare during the week of Christmas is 6% more than last year coming in at $163 for major U.S. destinations.

Those wanting to book last-minute travel may find good fares, but availability will be limited.

O’Hare, Newark Liberty, LaGuardia, Denver, and JFK.

If you really need to be at your destination on a certain day, book flights a day or two early so that you have a buffer.

Download the airline’s app on your phone and set it up for push notifications so that you’ll be notified about departure and arrival information as well as any flight changes, delays or cancellations. FlightAware and other sites let you track your incoming flight so you can find other options if that flight is late or cancelled.

Get to the airport early – at least two hours before domestic flights and three hours before international flights. The increase in travelers along with potential staffing shortages can make for long wait times to get through security.

Travel by bus, train and cruise rebound

Travel by other modes, including buses, trains, and cruises, will rise to nearly 3.7 million, an increase of 23% from 2021. This is nearly 94% of the volume in 2019. In all, about 3.2% of all travelers will go by these modes.

Roughly 47,000 Oregonians will travel by these modes this year.

AAA has advice for air travelers:

Book the first flight of the day or early morning flights if you can. They are less likely to be cancelled or delayed.

Try not to book tight connecting flights – you’ll want enough time to change flights in case your originating flight is late.

If possible, avoid airports for connecting flights where winter weather can lead to delays, including Chicago

If you need to park at the airport, book a parking spot in advance or at least check on availability before you go. Better yet, take transit, use a ride sharing service, or get a ride from a friend to the airport.

Carry your bags on your flight instead of checking them. If you do need to check bags, bring medications, a change of clothes, comfortable shoes, and any other necessary items in your carry on bag. Make sure your bags have name tags, and also put your name and contact info inside each bag.

Bring a refillable water bottle and snacks since some airports and flights still have reduced meal and beverage service. Many airlines allow you to pre-order food up to 24 hours before your flight. The TSA allows solid foods through screening but liquids or gels (such as yogurt) must comply with the 3-1-1 liquids rule.

Consider signing up for TSA PreCheck, Global Entry and/or CLEAR to expedite the security screening process. Do make sure the airports you use

offer CLEAR as it’s not available at all airports.

If your flight is canceled by the airline or there are significant delays, they will try to accommodate you on a later flight; however, you are entitled to a full refund under federal law.

Gas prices similar to last year

Those who hit the road for the holidays will find gas prices within about 20 cents a gallon of last year’s prices.

The current (as of Dec. 14) national average for regular unleaded is $3.21 and the Oregon average is $3.93. Find current prices at https://gasprices.aaa.com.

Peak traffic expected Dec. 23, 27, 28 and Jan. 2

Travelers can expect the busiest roads on Dec. 23, 27 and 28 and on Jan. 2. Delays will be the longest in the afternoons and evenings, especially in urban areas, as travelers mix with commuters. Some metro areas across the U.S. could see more than double the delays versus typical drive times, and larger urban areas could experience three times the normal delays.

“Knowing the busiest drive times can help you avoid the stress of being stuck in stop-and-go traffic,” Dodds said.

Top holiday destinations

These are the trending destinations for domestic and international travel for members of AAA Oregon/ Idaho based on bookings by our AAA travel agents and at AAA.com.

• Maui, HI

• Anaheim, CA

• Oahu, HI

• Las Vegas, NV

• Phoenix, AZ

• Cabo San Lucas, Mexico

• San Diego, CA

• Orlando, FL

• Fort Lauderdale, FL

• Cancun, Mexico

These are the top regional destinations for members of AAA Oregon/Idaho based on bookings by our AAA travel agents and on AAA.com.

• Bend, OR

• Seattle, WA

• Lincoln City, OR

• Medford/Ashland/Central Point, OR

• Redding, CA

• San Francisco, CA

• Boise, ID

• Sacramento, CA

• Newport, OR • Salt Lake City, UT

Take a hike to celebrate 2023

The

eagle, elk or winter birds are possible.

• Meet at 10 a.m. at the main parking lot next to the museum.

• The trail is dirt, gravel and sand.

1.

Information about the hike at Fort Stevens State Park is below:

• This is a 45-minute hike at the Historic Military Site and on the Jetty Trail.

Views of the Columbia River and passing cargo ships, plus an occasional

• Leashed dogs are welcome.

• Dress in layers with rain gear and gloves, wear sturdy shoes and bring water and snacks, as well as a camera or binoculars for wildlife viewing.

• For more information, call 503-861-3170.

The $5 day-use parking fee is waived that day for all state parks that require a parking permit and are open.

Share photos of First Day Hikes via social media by using the hashtag #ORfirstdayhikes.

First Day Hikes is a national initiative to welcome the coming year in the outdoors, promote exercise and encourage connecting with nature. The Oregon Parks and Recreation Department has participated since 2012.

“This will be one of the busiest times for holiday travel in the last two decades.”

~ Marie Dodds, AAA

Metro Creative Connection

Four areas in Oregon are among the top 10 regional destinations for travelers this Christmas and New Year’s holidays.

Oregon Parks and Recreation Department (OPRD) is partnering with America’s State Parks for free guided First Day Hikes in state parks on New Year’s Day, Sunday, Jan.

Whale Watching Week returns to the Oregon Coast

doing for more than 40 years now, and we’re really glad to be able to bring it back in person,” he said.

For the first time since 2019, Oregon State Parks will host Whale Watch Week in person along the Oregon Coast Dec. 28 – Jan. 1.

Previous Whale Watching events were cancelled during the pandemic.

Every year thousands of Gray whales migrate south through Oregon’s waters at the end of December, and Oregon Parks and Recreation Department (OPRD) invites visitors to the coast to see their journey.

Trained volunteers will be stationed at most of the 17 sites to help visitors spot whales, share information and answer questions from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. daily. The sites are some of the best places to watch for whales on the Oregon Coast.

“We really enjoy getting folks out to the coast for Whale Watch Week,” said Park Ranger Peter McBride.

“It’s something that Oregon State Parks has been

A map of volunteerstaffed sites is available online on the official event webpage: https:// oregonstateparks.org/index. cfm?do=thingstodo.dsp_ whaleWatching.

An estimated 19,000 Gray whales are expected to swim past Oregon’s shores over the next several weeks as part of their annual migration south to the warm calving lagoons near Baja, Mexico. The end of December is the peak time for their migration; roughly 30 whales pass by per hour.

In a previous interview with Country Media, OPRD spokesman Chris Havel said people are fascinated by the whales for good reason.

“People are clever and good at inventing and building ways to survive and thrive, and wildlife, like whales, do the same thing through sheer awesome power,” he said. “There’s still some mystery about

their lives, and seeing them in action is a thrill. Seeing them in real life is also a reminder of how we affect all marine life, and have a responsibility to eliminate pollution and be careful stewards of the planet’s resources.”

Havel adds that people are naturally attracted to the

whales’ beauty, mystery, and power.

“But we also appreciate being reminded of our place in these natural systems,” and it makes us all feel part of the family,” he said.

The Whale Watching Center in Depoe Bay will be open 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Wednesday through Sunday.

Visitors to the center can enjoy interactive whale exhibits and take in the panoramic ocean views. Binoculars are provided. Rangers from Oregon State Parks will also be on hand to answer questions about the whales.

The Whale Watching Center in Depoe Bay will be open 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Wednesday through Sunday. Visitors to the center can enjoy interactive whale exhibits and take in the panoramic ocean views. Binoculars are provided. Rangers from Oregon State Parks will also be on hand to answer questions about the whales.

All Whale Watch Week visitors are encouraged to dress for the weather, to bring binoculars and to follow beach safety guidelines such as remaining out of fenced areas, knowing the tide schedule and keeping an eye on the surf at all times. Go to https://visittheoregoncoast.com/beach-safety/ for a list of safety tips.

The OPRD urges beach visitors to take additional precautions along the

shoreline due to the winter conditions.

• Take care to stay well back of cliff edges. There are fences in some places, and respect them, but not everywhere. Be your own best safety coach and be careful. After rain and windstorms, cliff edges are unstable and can give way without warning.

• Check the weather and bring the right clothing to stay warm and dry.

For more information about coast parks and campgrounds, visit oregonstateparks.org.

Fast Fact

New ruling continues Ballot Measure 114 pause

STAFF REPORT Country Media, Inc.

There is now another pause on Oregon’s controversial Ballot Measure 114.

Harney County Circuit Court Judge Robert S. Raschio has ruled that the measure’s prohibition of the purchase and carrying of magazines holding 10-rounds or more of ammunition

“unduly frustrate the right to bear arms” under Oregon’s Constitution, according to a report by Oregon Public Broadcasting (OPB).

“Based upon the preliminary evidence, the result of BM 114 would be a near absolute prohibition on handguns and many other firearms with their magazines,” Raschio wrote, unconvinced by the state’s expert witnesses who testified the opposite was

true, the OPB report states. Raschio last week extended the temporary restraining order on permit-topurchase in Ballot Measure 114. The state had agreed to delay the permit-to-purchase portion of the law until Feb. 8 because of a lack of certified law enforcement to oversee the in-person gun handling training class that would be required.

The voter-approved

measure was to take effect Thursday, Dec. 8. It would limit magazine capacity and requires permits to purchase firearms.

The measure has triggered a surge in gun sales across the state.

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

Oregon to receive $698M in pollution lawsuit

Oregon Attorney General Ellen Rosenblum today announced a historic $698 million settlement with the Monsanto Company (Monsanto) for their role in polluting Oregon with PCBs (polychlorinated biphenyls) for the past 90 + years.

Monsanto was the only manufacturer, seller, and distributor of PCBs. PCBs are toxic compounds formerly used in coolants, electrical equipment (such as fluorescent lighting fixtures), and devices, as well as hydraulic oils. They were also previously used in products,

including paint, caulking, and copy paper.

“This is a huge win for our state,” Rosenblum said. “PCBs are still present throughout Oregon — especially in our landfills and riverbeds — and they are exceedingly difficult to remove, because they ‘bioaccumulate’ in fish and wildlife. Cleaning up our state from this horrific environmental degradation will be as costly and timeconsuming as it sounds, but this settlement means we now will have resources to help tackle this problem.”

Monsanto is owned by Bayer AG, a massive German pharmaceutical and biotechnology company.

Today’s settlement stems from a lawsuit filed by Attorney General Rosenblum against Monsanto in 2018.

The complaint in the case alleged Monsanto was aware as early as 1937 of the highly toxic nature of PCBs. Even with that knowledge, Oregon asserted, Monsanto continued to produce and promote the compounds for decades — until they were finally banned in 1977. The lawsuit asked for damages

for the extensive harm to Oregon from PCB contamination, as well as clean-up costs.

“Monsanto’s toxic legacy unfortunately lives on in our lands, rivers and other waterways – and poses ongoing risks to the health of our people and our environment,” Rosenblum said. “This is all the more reason why this settlement is so vitally important. Oregon and Oregonians will be the better for it.”

The Oregon Department of Justice (DOJ), which AG Rosenblum leads, will be

working with the Oregon Legislature, Oregon Governor, and state agencies to put the funds to use for statewide remediation and clean-up.

“This settlement is a major step in beginning to reverse the harmful effects of PCBs on Oregon’s environment,” Oregon Gov. Kate Brown said. “I’d like to thank the DOJ staff and attorneys who worked diligently to get us to this point. While it will take some time, I am pleased we can now move forward toward a healthier Oregon.”

Columbia County’s trusted local

An estimated 19,000 Gray whales are expected to swim past Oregon’s shores over the next several weeks as part of their annual migration south to the warm calving lagoons near Baja, Mexico.

JEREMY C. RUARK Country Media, Inc.

Courtesy photo from the OPRD

A whale emerges out of the ocean into the air along the Oregon shoreline.

Courtesy photo from the OPRD

The annual event attracts many alongside the shoreline hoping to capture a good view of the migration.

Courtesy from the OPRD

The OPRD suggests looking for the spray to find the migrating whales off the shoreline

Courtesy from the OPRD

Trained volunteers will be stationed at most of the 17 sites to help visitors spot whales, share information and answer questions from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. daily.

Jeremy C. Ruark / Country Media, Inc.

Gun sales have soared since the passage of Ballot Measure 114.

Courtesy photo

The Oregon Department of Justice will be working with the Oregon Legislature, Oregon Governor, and state agencies to put the funds to use for statewide remediation and clean-up.

Warmest wishes on this holiday season from your friends at Hagan Hamilton

Oregon Christmas trees celebrate the holiday, create jobs

stalls.

BRIAN ROONEY Chronicle Guest Column

Oregonians will shop on the internet, bake cookies, and buy or cut a Christmas tree grown in their home state.

In fact, across the U.S. and Mexico, people will be purchasing a tree grown in Oregon, helping to create jobs.

An ancient tradition

According to Encyclopedia Britannica, the use of evergreen trees, wreaths and garlands to symbolize eternal life was a custom of the ancient Egyptians, Chinese, and Hebrews.

Tree worship was common among pagan Europeans such as the Vikings and Saxons and survived their conversion to Christianity in the Scandinavian tradition of decorating the house and barn with evergreens at the New Year and of setting up a tree for the birds at Christmas

tree is often traced to the “tree of paradise” used in a medieval European play about Adam and Eve given on December 24. These trees were decorated with apples to represent forbidden fruit and wafers that represent redemption.

By the renaissance, the apples were replaced by red balls and the wafers were replaced by various cookies. Lights in the form of candles were added in 16th century Germany. The Christmas tree tradition in the U.S. is attributed to early German immigrants.

An important commodity in Oregon

Oregon is the number one Christmas tree producing state in the nation, according to data from the Oregon

(54%) or Douglas fir (32%).

About 92% of Pacific Northwest Christmas trees were exported out of the region with 45% headed to California and 16% headed to Mexico. The balance were sent to other regions of the U.S, especially the Southwest states.

Employment

A lot of work goes into getting Oregon Christmas trees to market as fresh and green as possible. It starts with growing the trees, which will take at least six years for a tree to reach six feet tall, depending on the species. Then there are wholesale sales followed by a tight harvest window. Harvest is usually done with a chain saw for wholesale trees.

Fresh cut trees are shaken,

Community EvEnts

December 22 Vaccination

Event

Columbia Health Services (CHS)/Oregon WIC to host a COVID and Flu Vaccination Event from 1-3 p.m. across the street from the St. Helens Post Office, 1560 Columbia Boulevard in St. Helens. Families can call CHS at 800-244-4870 to schedule immunization needed before the school exclusion Feb. 15.

Ongoing Events

Lower Columbia River Watershed Council Meets at 7 p.m. every other second Tuesday. Meetings are currently held electronically by Zoom. For more information, contact Council Coordinator Allan Whiting at E-mail: allan@whitingenv. com, or call 503-789-9240 Visit the council’s website for agenda postings and Zoom at www.lowercolumbiariver.org/events-page.

Resonate Recovery Meets at 7 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. Free childcare available. For more information call Debbie at 503-560-0521 or check the Resonate Facebook page.

Columbian Toastmasters Promoting positive learning and leadership through public speaking. Anyone is welcome! Meeting virtually via Zoom from 12 p.m.-1 p.m. every Thursday. Call 503-369-0329 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

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

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.

employment in Oregon’s Christmas tree industry is difficult since the production and selling are included in several broad industries with other commodities. These include the following:

Nursery and tree production – comprises companies engaged in nursery stock, shrubbery, bulbs, and woody trees with a growth and harvest cycle of 10 years or less.

Other miscellaneous nondurable goods merchant wholesalers – comprises companies involved in merchant wholesale distribution of nondurable goods from agricultural products to pet supplies to textile bags.

Other direct selling establishments – comprises establishments engaged in nonstore retail sales by means such as in-house sales, truck or wagon sales, and portable

Since Christmas tree growers are required to have a license from the Oregon Department of Agriculture, we can get a rough idea of the magnitude of the industry. There were 335 licensed Christmas tree growers in Oregon in 2022, cultivating roughly 45,000 acres.

We can look at an annual trend of payroll employment in Christmas tree growing by matching company names from ODA licenses with records from the Oregon Employment Department’s Unemployment Insurance program. A search produced 54 matches.

In 2021, payroll employment at these companies held steady in the spring and summer and then spiked with the harvest in November at little less than 900 workers. Annual average payroll employment was 424 with a total payroll of $16.9 million. Due to the seasonal nature of employment, annual average pay is relatively low at $39,764.

Obviously, many growers are sole proprietors or family farms that have little or no payroll employment and are not required to report to the UI program. Many of the growers tend the trees and then hire temporary workers for the harvest or contract out the harvest. With more than 280 growers not included in the payroll employment companies above, it is likely that hundreds, if not thousands more are employed growing Christmas trees over the year. So, while you are decorating your tree, baking cookies or enjoying an eggnog this holiday season, remember the thousands of workers that hustle to get that Oregon Christmas tree to you as fresh and green as possible.

Brian Rooney is an Oregon Employment Department Regional Economist in Douglas and Lane counties. He may be reached at brian.t.rooney@employ. oregon.gov or at 541-3599546.

Write to us: We want to hear from you and encourage you to write letters to the editor. Because of space limitations, shorter letters have a better chance of being printed. We may edit your letter for style, grammar and clarity, although we do as little editing as possible. If you don’t want your letter printed under those conditions, just let us know. Thank-you letters are limited to a general thanks and summary of

an issue or action. We reserve the right to exclude lists of people, organizations and businesses. Letters received after noon on Friday may not be in time for the following Wednesday’s paper.

To verify authenticity, all letters must be signed and include your address and daytime phone number. We won’t print your street address or phone number (just your city of residence). Submissions may be emailed to chroniclenews@countrymedia.net, sent via mail, or dropped off at the office.

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

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

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

Kelli Nicholson Office Manager

James Yang Creative Director

Jon Lowrance Driver

Metro Creative Connection

Residents across Oregon follow a tradition of cutting their own Christmas tree for the holiday.

Courtesy from the Oregon Employment Department

Alcoholics Anonymous Info-line, (503) 366-0667 www.pdxaa.org

502 Help Wanted

Pool Manager

Clatskanie Park & Recreation District is now accepting applications and resumes for a Pool Manager. Responsibilities: Train, manage and evaluate approximately 20 lifeguards; beginning in February and continuing into September. Plan, organize and schedule programs offered at our seasonal outdoor pool. Be responsible for scheduling ad-

equate staff for the safety, supervision, cleanliness, water chemistry and mechanical operation of the pool for youth and families in our District. Maintain pool and employee records. Perform such other duties as assigned by the District Manager and/or Board of Directors from time to time. Knowledge and Skills: Strong administrative skills, recreational aquatic programming skills, leadership and managerial skills, pool maintenance and water chemistry skills and good public relation skills are a must. Thorough knowledge

of policies, procedures and equipment used in daily outdoor pool operations helpful. Work with pool related chemicals and be familiar with State and Federal regulations regarding outdoor pool operations. Experience and Training: Experience preferred. Or the willingness to work within an agreed upon time frame between applicant and Board of Directors to obtain the required and suggested certifications for the position; FirstAid, CPR, AED certifications, Lifeguard Instructor and Training, Water Safety Instructor

and CPO (Certified Pool Operator) certifications. You can request an application by phone at 503- 728-2757, by email at csp@ cni.net or on our website www.clatskanie- parksandrecrea- tion.com. Applications and resumes can be returned by mail to: Clatskanie Park & Recreation District, PO Box 737, Clatskanie OR 97016 or by email to csp@cni.net. If you have any questions, please leave message at 503728-2757. Applications with resumes will be accepted through January 31, 2023.

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

Full Time Dental Assistant St. Helens Dental Care is looking for a Full Time Dental Assistant to join our team. Qualified applicants must have their X-Ray and EFDA license. Applicants must be willing to work Monday through Friday. We are a stateof-the-art practice and offer a positive working environment. Please drop off your resume

in person Monday through Wednesday to our office at 575 S. Columbia River Hwy. in St. Helens, Oregon 97051.

Sweeper Truck Driver

To the local retired, night owl’s, and those with extra time who want a simple income: Help keep our local lots clean by driving sweeper truck routes at night! We offer a set and predictable schedule, consistent income, and a relaxed and independent job with nothing to worry about! All that we ask for is an insurable driving

record, a minimum age of 25, consistency and attention. Please send your information to anoasphalt@gmail.com and we will follow up.

700

Misc/Trade

Bargain Corner

FREE good condition, electric recliner chair, fits smaller adult, color is blue/ grey. For sale: Commercial pipe ladder for $150. Fiber glass, two sections, plus or minus 20 feet, working length 30-36 feet. Please leave a message at 503429-0115.

For Rent 65 years old or older. Manufactured home. 2 bed, 1 bath. Large addition. $920/- month. No smoking. No pets. $15 rental application fee. 32678 Scappoose Vernonia Hwy. One mile from Hwy 30. 503543-2250 or 503396-9212.

a job?

Public Notices

PROTECTING YOUR RIGHT TO KNOW

CH22-1229

NOTICE TO INTERESTED PERSONS In the Matter of the Estate of Sharon Haan, Deceased.

Notice is hereby given that Barbara Shriver has been appointed personal

CH22-1232

representative. All persons having a claim against the estate are required to present them, to the undersigned personal representative in care of the undersigned attorney at:

1915 NE Stucki Avenue, Suite 400, Hillsboro, OR 97006, within four months after the date of first publication of this notice, or the claims may be barred. All persons whose rights may

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

In the Matter of the Estate of MARY L. SCOTT, Deceased. No. 22PB09699

NOTICE TO INTERESTED PERSONS NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the undersigned has been appointed personal representative. All persons having claims against the estate are required to present them, with vouchers attached, to

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the undersigned personal representative at the address below, within four months after the date of first publication of this notice, or the claims may be barred. All persons whose rights may be affected by the proceedings may obtain additional information from the records of the court, the personal representative, or

the attorneys for the personal representative. Dated and first published December 14, 2022. NANCY J. THOMAS Personal Representative c/o Lucas & Associates, LLC, Attorneys at Law, P.O. Box 519, Rainier, OR 97048. Phone 503-5563741, FAX 503-556-0708, Lucasatty@yahoo.com.

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

Probate Department In the Matter of the Estate of WILLIAM WESLEY COY, Deceased. Case No. 22PB10380 NOTICE TO INTERESTED PERSONS

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the undersigned has been appointed personal representative of this estate. All persons

Holiday Deadline

having claims against the estate are required to present their claims, with vouchers attached, within four months after the date of the first publication of this notice to the personal representative at 52490 SE 2nd Street, Suite 100, Scappoose, OR 97056, or the claims may be barred. All

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PUBLIC NOTICE

persons whose rights may be affected by the proceedings may obtain additional information from the records of the Court, the personal representative, or the attorney for the personal representative. DATED and first published December 21, 2022. Michael R. Coy, Personal Representative.

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BOARD MEETING

McNulty Water PUD Board meeting will be held January 3, 2023, at 7pm. Located at 34240 Millard Road, Warren, Oregon 97053.

be affected by the proceedings may obtain additional information from the records of the Court, the personal representative, or the attorney for the personal representative. Dated and

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first published: December 14, 2022. Personal Representative: Barbara Shriver, 1550 3rd Street, Columbia City, OR 97018, 503-8873756 At-torney, for the Personal Representative:

Chris Burnett, OSB No. 992311, Burnett Law, P.C., 1915 NE Stucki Avenue, Suite 400, Hillsboro, OR 97006, Phone: 503-3524272, chris@burnettlawpc. com.

PUBLIC NOTICE OF A HEARING FOR A STREET VACATION

A public hearing before the St. Helens City Council will be held at 6:30 PM on Wednesday, January 4, 2022 in the St. Helens City Council Chambers in City Hall located at 265 Strand Street, St. Helens, OR 97051. The purpose of this hearing is to receive public input as to the proposed vacation (i.e. giving up a public interest) of the east 40’ of the North 9th Street right-of-way abutting Lots 5, 6, 7, and 8 of Block 76 of the St. Helens Subdivision, City of St. Helens, Columbia County, Oregon. A

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petition to vacate was filed by Murphy Family Trust and Kylie Bellar on November 7, 2022. A map of the proposed vacation and affected areas is available for review at City Hall. All written comments should be submitted to the city at least seven days prior to the hearing but can be accepted any time before or at the hearing. Testimony is welcome at the hearing. Zoom will also be available to participate. Virtual access information to join the hearing will be available on the applicable agenda.

Agendas and the staff report for this can be found on the City’s website: https:// www.sthelensoregon.gov/ meetings within the week prior to the public hearing. Questions about this vacation can be directed to the City Planning Department at 503-397-6272. The meeting location is accessible to persons with disabilities. A request for an interpreter for the hearing impaired or for other accommodations for persons with disabilities should be made at least 48 hours before the meeting to City Hall at 503-397-6272.

Request for Proposals # S-C00055-00005196

Design/Build Pole Barn and Reroofing of Existing Barns. Notice is hereby given that Columbia County by and through its General Services Department intends to Contract for the design and building of a Pole Barn and the reroofing of up to 4 Barn’s. All work is to be performed on the Columbia

County Fairgrounds. The Request for Proposal documents are available at the County’s website at https:// www.columbiacountyor.gov/ bids and on Oregon Buys at https://oregonbuys.gov/bso/ view/login/login.xhtml. It is the Proposers responsibility to check the website or Oregon Buys frequently to

be aware of any addenda. Proposals will be accepted at the following address until 4:00 PM January 13, 2023.

Columbia County General Services, C/O Columbia County Board of Commissioners’ Office, 230 Strand St, St Helens, Oregon 97051, ATTN: Riley Baker, Director of General Services.

Oregon’s 17 death row inmates’ sentences commuted to life in prison

REPORT

Using her executive clemency powers, Gov. Kate Brown has commuted the sentences of the 17 individ uals on Oregon’s death row to life imprisonment without the possibility of parole.

“I have long believed that justice is not advanced by taking a life, and the state should not be in the business of executing peo ple—even if a terrible crime placed them in prison.

day between one thing or another and definitely extremes and whatnot, but at the end of the day, we were there still open for folks.”

The Linares moved to Oregon in 2018 and received their grocery store ownership training in Klamath Falls. They moved to St. Helens with their two kids just before opening their store in 2021. Their kids, Stella and Ricky Jr., are enrolled in Columbia County Christian School and adjusting well after being homeschooled by Kate Linares.

While they see themselves as providing a necessity to the community through their store, they also give back to the local community whenever possible.

“You really get to see how you touch people’s

lives; we still donate to the food bank, to the senior center, you know, several times a week, if anything.” Ricky Linares said.

“We’re definitely part of the community, and we try and look out for everyone that we can,” Kate Linares added.

Within the store, Ricky often handles the hands-on duties of running the store, doing orders, training the staff, and maintaining quality standards on the floor. Kate manages more behind-thescenes work with marketing, financials, and community connections.

“So, most days, if you didn’t know who I was, you would think I was just another employee, and in my mind, I really am,” Ricky Linares said.

Maintaining the store is a team effort, and the Linares count the employees as extended family. That goes beyond the workplace; this

year, the Linares hosted the store’s holiday party at their own house.

“We’re definitely a team, all of us. It’s not just Ricky and I, and we have a team. No, we’re all part of the same team working toward the same goal,” Kate Linares said.

In the future, the Linares are focusing on making their processes more efficient and continuing to embed themselves in their new home.

“We don’t really have any particular goals set. We kind of just want to keep on engraining ourselves in the community and keep on growing as a company, a store, and as people, really!” Kate Linares said.

You can find Grocery Outlet in St. Helens at 205 Brayden St.

For more information, the St. Helens Grocery Outlet may be reached by calling 503-410-5533.

“Since taking office in 2015, I have continued Oregon’s moratorium on executions because the death penalty is both dysfunctional and immoral. Today I am commuting Oregon’s death row so that we will no longer have anyone serving a sentence of death and facing execution in this state. This is a value that many

Oregonians share. “Unlike previous commutations I’ve granted to individuals who have demonstrated extraordinary growth and rehabilitation, this commutation is not based on any rehabilitative efforts by the individuals on

death row. Instead, it reflects the recognition that the death penalty is immoral. It is an irreversible punishment that does not allow for correction; is wasteful of taxpayer dollars; does not make communities safer; and cannot be and never has been administered fairly and equitably. My action today is consistent with the near abolition of the death penalty that has been achieved through SB 1013.

“I also recognize the pain and uncertainty victims experience as they wait for decades while individuals sit on death row—especially in states with moratoriums on executions—without resolution. My hope is that this commutation will bring us a significant step closer to finality in these cases.”

Read Brown’s full order with this story at thechronicleonline.com.

State agency launching disparity study

The Oregon Department of Administrative Services (DAS) has commissioned a disparity study to assess whether any barriers exist for small businesses, veteranowned businesses, person of color (POC)-owned businesses, or woman-owned businesses that make it more difficult for them to compete for or perform state work.

The disparity study will:

• Measure the participation of those businesses in State work

• Estimate the availability of those businesses for State work

• Assess whether any disparities exist between utilization and participation

• Assess marketplace con-

ditions for those businesses

Be engaged

There will be many opportunities for the public to participate directly in the study. Look for information about how you can participate in the following ways:

• Attend a community

stakeholder session (December 2022)

• Participate in a business survey (December 2022 –April 2023)

• Participate in an in-depth interview (December 2022 –March 2023)

• Participate in a focus group (April 2023)

• Submit written comments or questions (throughout)

• Attend a final presentation (September 2023)

To learn more, visit: https://oregon.gov/das/ pages/disparity-study.aspx or contact Oregondisparity@ bbcresearch.com.

The DAS has commissioned BBC Research & Consulting (BBC) to conduct the study.

In the Circuit Court of the State of Oregon for the County of Columbia, Probate Department. Case No. 22PB09609

Ison Transportation and Roger Ison are no longer responsible/affiliated with Clay Jonak with Aksarben Maritime as of Dec. 7, 2022.

Jeremy C. Ruark / Country Media, Inc.

This

of the St. Helens Grocery Outlet facing Highway 30.

Courtesy photo

Metro Creative Connection

Gov. Brown’s executive clemency order took effect Dec. 14.

STAFF

Country Media, Inc.

obituariEs

Parnell Hovland

Oct.

Parnell Hovland, 93, of Columbia City, Oregon, passed away on Dec. 14, 2022. Parnell was born in Portland, North Dakota to Homer and Anna Hovland on Oct. 21, 1929, in his grandparents’ home.

In his youth, the family moved to Hatton, North Dakota and he graduated from Hatton High School in 1946. At age eighteen, he joined the Army and served in Japan as a Message Center Clerk. Parnell married Elsie Stavens on Sept. 8, 1950. They moved to Neche, North Dakota where Parnell worked as a railroad clerk. He then purchased and operated the hometown Garbage Service in Mayville, North Dakota.

The family moved to St. Helens, Oregon in 1963 where he worked for the local plywood mill. As an

21, 1929 ~ Dec. 14, 2022

and wood carvings. He loved to “tinker” and was an excellent mechanic, farmer, and could fix just about anything.

Our beloved patriarch is survived by his wife Elsie of 72 years; two daughters, Linda (Ken) Thomas, and Patrice Hovland; grandchildren, Jennifer (Ben) Rich, Kari (Ernie) Smith, and Paul (Kate) Thomas; and six great grandchildren.

Oregon adds 8,500 jobs, unemployment rate up slightly

STAFF REPORT Country Media, Inc.

Oregon’s unemployment rate rose to 4.4% in November from 4.1% in October, according ro the Oregon Employment Department.

vice until he eased into retire ment in the late 1990’s.

Parnell’s hobbies included just about anything related to woodworking. He was a master craftsman that built clocks, tables, toys, airplanes,

Shirley Anne Kallio

There is no memorial service scheduled at this time. Special thanks to Parnell’s caregivers at Safe and Sound Adult Foster Home, and Community Home Health & Hospice (CHHH). Any remembrance could be in the form of donation to the Alzheimer’s Association, https://act.alz.org > donate, or CHHH Hospice at https:// www.chhh.org/how-you-canhelp/donate-now/.

Nov. 12, 1940 ~ Nov. 4, 2022

Shirley Anne (Birch) Kallio passed away peacefully in her sleep on Friday, Nov. 4, 2022, at the age of 80

Shirley was born on Nov. 12, 1940, in Lebanon, Oregon, to Raymond and Ruth Birch. She was the second of three children.

She graduated from Clatskanie Union High School in 1959 and married Eino Kallio in September 1959.

From

that landslides are most common in the following areas:

• Canyon bottoms, stream channels, channel outlets

• Steep slopes and bases of steep hillsides

• Areas where slopes of hills have been altered by excavated or steepened or recently burned

• Places where slides or

She was predeceased by her husband, her parents and her siblings, David Birch and Marietta Cooper.

Shirley leaves behind her daughter Debra (and Charles) Forward; son Robert (and Sue) Kallio; six grandchildren; eight great grandchildren; and numerous nieces, nephews and cousins.

No services are planned at this time.

debris flows have occurred in the past

Storms that have caused landslides in the past and are of concern create unstable soils, according to DOGAMI. The soils can’t drain fast enough, and the combination of too much water too fast, steep slopes, and weak geology all contribute to the potential for landslides.

DOGAMI geologist Bill Burns told County Media in a published interview in 2021, that certain types of landslides,

notably debris flows, can move rapidly (10s of miles per hour).

“These types of landslides tend to start in the upper portions of a drainage and can accelerate and grow as they flow down the channel,” Burns said. “When they reach the mouth of the channel they tend to fan out and inundate the areas at the mouth of the channel.”

“Unfortunately, the channel outlets are sometimes where people and infrastructure are located. These types of areas are the most concerning. People that live or are travel-

The unemployment rate increased 0.9 percentage point over the past four months from its recent low of 3.5% in May, June, and July. The last time Oregon’s unemployment rate was 4.4% or more was in October 2021 when the rate was 4.4%. In contrast, the U.S. unemployment rate has remained below 4%, as it was 3.7% in both October and November of 2022.

Job gains

In Oregon, nonfarm payroll employment rose by 8,500 jobs in November, following a gain of 5,500 jobs in October. The gains in November were largest in government (+2,900 jobs); health care and social assistance (+1,400); wholesale trade (+1,100); and leisure and hospitality (+1,000). None of the major industries cut a substantial number of jobs in November.

Sector growth

All major sectors of government grew. Federal government added 900 jobs in November, with several firms adding jobs when they normally would be shedding

ing in these areas should be extra cautious and be prepared to evacuate. These types of landslides are common in postfire areas. The combination of the potential long distance from where they start to where they end up and the speed they move is why they are of extra concern and can be life threatening.”

Since the 2020 Labor Day fires, DOGAMI’s landslide team has focused on the potential post-fire debris flow hazard using a large multiyear, multiagency FEMA grant to work

seasonal jobs heading into the winter slow period. State government added 300 jobs, continuing its slow growth this year. Local government added 1,700 jobs, but remained 2,400 jobs below November 2019, prior to the pandemic recession.

Oregon’s private sector added 5,600 jobs in November, reaching another alltime high of 1,688,400. This was 16,700 jobs, or 1.0%, above the pre-recession peak in February 2020.

Health care and social assistance continued its steady and rapid advances this year, adding 1,400 jobs in November, which was close to its average gain of 1,200 jobs per month

on understanding the post-fire debris flow risk and identify areas of risk throughout many of these recent fires in western Oregon. The end goal of these projects, Burns said, is to use science to understand the post-fire debris flow landslide risk and collaborate with the communities in these wildfire areas to reduce the landslide risk.

House said that overall, no matter where you travel, the advice to motorists is to prepare for winter travel conditions and expect delays

this year. Social assistance grew the most, adding 5,100 jobs (+7.8%) in the past 12 months. Ambulatory health care services (+4,500 jobs, or 4.8%) and nursing and residential care facilities (+2,100 jobs, or 4.3%) also have expanded rapidly since November 2021.

Leisure and hospitality is still substantially below its pre-pandemic peak. But its revised gain of 2,000 jobs in October, coupled with its gain of 1,000 in November, put the industry back on its recent upward trajectory. Over the past 12 months it added 15,700 jobs, accounting for nearly a quarter of Oregon’s private-sector job gains during that time.

and longer travel times especially with holiday traffic and severe weather on the way later this week.

House urges travelers to always check TripCheck.com just before you leave for your journey to find out the latest highway conditions.

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

Columbia County’s trusted local news source

Metro Creative Connection

There were 94,294 unemployed and 2,091,702 employed in Oregon in November.

2 County cities to receive affordable housing funds

all Oregon families have a warm, safe, affordable and stable place to call home.”

Community and Shelter Assistance (CASA) in Oregon will receive $200,000 from the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) to provide ongoing management of long-term affordable housing in communities all over the state, including Clatskanie and Rainier.

Oregon U.S. Senators Ron Wyden and Jeff Merkley announced funding Wednesday, Dec. 14.

“As we enter the coldest months of the year, I’m gratified to see federal dollars go to keeping roofs overhead for Oregonians in communities throughout the state,” Wyden said. “While building more long-term affordable housing remains an ongoing challenge, CASA is providing crucial services to maintain and expand the long-term affordable housing we already have. I will continue to fight so that in the wealthiest, strongest nation on earth,

“Everyone should be able to afford a safe place to call home, and as we are faced with a housing affordability crisis, it is crucial that we support efforts expanding access to housing options,” Merkley said. “This funding, going to CASA of Oregon to support housing cooperatives across the state, will ensure Oregonians have greater access to affordable and reliable housing options.”

CASA, located in Sherwood, will use the Rural Development grant dollars from USDA along with $96,500 it raised to provide assistance to the following communities as they develop long-term, affordable housing options.

• Clatskanie

• Rainier

• Warrenton

• Gold Beach

• Leaburg

• Boardman

• McMinnville

• Idleyld

• Dexter

• Cottage Grove

• Redmond • Winston • Estacada

• Madras

• Welches

• Newport

CASA provides ongoing technical assistance to housing cooperatives to ensure long term viability as affordable housing options.

“We are grateful for these much-needed resources that will allow us to find long-term solutions to the housing crisis that too many Oregonians—especially those living in rural areas face,” CASA’s Manufactured Housing and Cooperative Development Center Director Rose Ojeda said. “We look forward to working with our local partners to develop programs tailored to their unique needs that create more sustainable, healthy, and just communities.”

St. Helens building local entrepreneurial ecosystems

SUBMITTED BY THE CITY OF ST. HELENS

Over the next five years, local leaders in St. Helens will join a cohort of rural communities across the state who are committed to supporting strong entrepreneurial growth and “bottom up” economic development using the Growing Rural Oregon (GRO) framework.

With targeted coaching and funding for a local GRO Coordinator, the leadership team in St. Helens will be equipped to identify growth and investment opportunities, leverage best practices, and connect to new ideas, resources, and industry

leaders. They will also have the benefit of learning from and networking with peers in GRO’s inaugural cohort: John Day, Independence, and Klamath Falls.

GRO recognizes that every rural community has entrepreneurial talent, but not every community has an entrepreneurial “ecosystem” with the resources and supports necessary for rural entrepreneurs to become established and achieve success. GRO’s flexible framework serves all kinds of communities – those that are brand new in their efforts to support entrepreneurship, those that have systems in place, and those that have done this work for a long time.

“We always meet communities where they are,”

The Ford Family Foundation Community Economic Development Director Kathleen Flanagan said. “When you take a grassroots approach and focus on entrepreneurship, you build better diversified and more stable economies that are much more adaptive and prepared

for change.”

Rapid change has been the experience of St. Helens, where post-COVID start-up and spin-off businesses are booming, a new Small Business Development Center and a Main Streets organization have both opened, and the City has launched redevelopment of its business district and waterfront.

“The inclusion of St. Helens in the GRO initiative is a very fortunate convergence,” Columbia Economic Team Executive Director Paul Vogel said. “In a rural county, when one community is strengthened and elevated, every community is strengthened and elevated.”

“With this support, we

can leverage local assets and grow local talent,” St. Helens City Administrator John Walsh said.

Partnership is critical to GRO’s success. GRO utilizes a framework developed in close collaboration with e2 Entrepreneurial Ecosystems, a leader in rural economic development with more than 30 years of experience in the field. The e2 framework has been field tested for nearly two decades by NetWork Kansas and dozens of other communities across the U.S. The initiative is housed within Oregon’s Economic Development Districts and managed by Central Oregon Intergovernmental Council (COIC).

To learn more about Growing Rural Oregon, its partners, and the communities involved, visit www. growingruraloregon.org.

About The Ford Family Foundation

The Ford Family Foundation was established in 1957 by Kenneth W. and Hallie E. Ford. Its mission is “successful citizens and vital rural communities” in Oregon and Siskiyou County, California. The Foundation is located in Roseburg, Oregon, with a Scholarship office in Eugene.

See more information at www.tfff.org

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Clatskanie and Rainier will receive a share of the $200,000 in federal affordable housing funds.

Courtesy photo