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Serving Columbia County since 1881

The Chronicle and The Chief to become one weekly newspaper FRANK PEREA II Publisher The Columbia County Chronicle & Chief

Two of Columbia County’s storied community newspapers are joining together to provide one countywide weekly publication.

Beginning next week, The St. Helens Chronicle and The Clatskanie Chief will publish as one newspaper each Wednesday.

This is a strategy that Oregonbased Country Media considers a sustainable path forward for your hometown newspaper.

The Chronicle and The Chief have a rich tradition of covering St. Helens, Clatskanie and other cities across Columbia County.

For over 100 years, they have been reporting and documenting the local news. This upcoming change will help The Chronicle and The Chief continue to inform

and educate about community events, county government, economics, schools, sports and regional issues every week.

I believe the Columbia County Chronicle & Chief must be an involved and active community business. We do this by participating with local area organizations and nonprofits, serving on boards and committees, and providing sponsorships. Understanding and capturing the diverse interests within Columbia County and advocating for good government are things we do not take lightly.

My philosophy is that a hometown newspaper should promote its community while informing and educating its readers on locally relevant issues. Our county’s businesses need your support.

We’re one of those local businesses, and we hope you’ll continue to support your hometown Columbia County Chronicle & Chief.

We appreciate your readership!

Year in Review 2023 2023 has had its highs and lows; through it all, The Chronicle has remained steadfast in our mission to deliver meaningful stories in the community and throughout Columbia County.

This Year In Review special presentation is filled with stories that featured on the front page and garnered reader interest online. After careful review, the stories selected by The Chronicle

staff for this edition reflect just some of the stories that shaped the year 2023 for St. Helens and Columbia County.

While the news landscape may be shifting in the coming

year, Country Media is committed to following impactful local stories and we are dedicated to bringing you the best news coverage we can.

The Chronicle will continue

to diligently report the important issues of the community while shining a spotlight on the people and organizations that are devoted to making positive impacts within Columbia County.

Fentanyl use, dealing, overdoses spiking in Oregon WILL LOHRE Country Media, Inc. Originally published in The Chronicle Vol. 141, Jan. 25, 2023

Columbia County Sheriff concerned Oregon is facing an overdose crisis.

According to Oregon Health Authority (OHA), unintentional and undetermined drug overdose deaths in Oregon more than doubled between 2019 and 2021.

Illicitly manufactured Fentanyl (IMF) is at the heart of this crisis and has now surpassed methamphetamine as the most frequent drug involved in overdose deaths.

An issue briefing from the OHA to the Oregon Governor’s Office revealed staggering statistics on the crisis.

“Fentanyl overdose deaths increased nearly 600% between 2019 and 2021, from 71 to 509, respectively. In 2021, more than half (54.6%) of overdose deaths involved more than one drug and/ or alcohol,” the report said.

What is Fentanyl Fentanyl is a synthetic opioid that is 50 times stronger than Year in Review A1-3, 5, 7-9

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heroin, and 100 times stronger than morphine, according to the CDC website. Doctors prescribe pharmaceutical fentanyl to treat severe pain, especially after surgery and for advanced-stage cancer. Its illicit form is often added to other drugs to make them more potent, cheaper to make, and more addictive.

“To process the drugs in a pill form takes minimal effort,” Oregon State Police media relations representative Captain Kyle Kennedy said. “Equally, the inability of users to obtain prescription medications with Narcotic Analgesic properties, such as OxyContin, etc., has increased the demand.”

Fentanyl is often used in conjunction with other stimulants and substances. It also is commonly consumed by mistake, with the user believing they are using a different substance, according to the CDC website.

“Powdered fentanyl looks just like many other drugs. It is commonly mixed with drugs like heroin, cocaine, and methamphetamine and made into pills that are made to resemble other prescription opioids. Fentanyl-laced drugs are extremely dangerous, and many people may be unaware that their drugs are laced with fentanyl,” the CDC states.

Where is it coming from?

IMF is typically made in Mexico and trafficked to the United States, where illegal drug markets distribute it more widely.

Kennedy detailed how the drug is imported and distributed.

“Most of the fentanyl we seize comes from the southwest border of the United States, originating in Mexico,” Kennedy said. “Once the fentanyl is smuggled into the US, our investigations, along with other Law enforcement agencies, have determined it is stored in “stash houses” in southern California, Arizona, and Texas before being shipped to its final destination throughout the United States. In Oregon, common traffic corridors utilized are Interstates 5 and 84, as well as Highway 97.”

Columbia County Sheriff Brian Pixley reported that there has been a “significant” rise in

Courtesy from Lincoln City Police

Law enforcement agents are finding powered fentanyl in drug investigations across the state.

both dealing and fentanyl use countywide. The county has also had deaths due to the drug. Pixley also gave reasons why the drug is becoming more common.

“We are seeing a sharp spike in fentanyl being used in the production of fake oxy pills and as an additive to other illegal substances,” Pixley said. “I believe this is becoming more common because of its potency. Users do not need to use an much fentanyl to get [and] maintain their high. It is also relatively cheap.”

Who’s at risk?

According to the OHA, overdose deaths involving fentanyl increased from 227 in 2019-2020 to 509 deaths in 2020-2021.

Unfortunately, the OHA could not provide data on the use of the drug overall. However, the OHA, OSP, and Sheriff Pixley all agreed that fentanyl dealing and use have increased. OHA data showed an increase in fentanyl seized from

690 dosage units (counterfeit pills) in 2018 to more than 2 million so far in 2022.

“Drug overdose deaths are highest among middle-aged people, males, Black individuals, American Indian/Alaska Native people, and people experiencing houselessness,” according to the OHA issue briefing.

Authorities are attempting educational outreach to battle the increase in use and overdoses.

OHA emphasized that people should know that even small doses of fentanyl can be fatal.

They also urged people who use opioids, or are close to those who do, to carry naloxone. Also known as Narcan, naloxone is an “easyto-use, life-saving drug.” It can reverse the effects of an overdose if administered in time.

What is the state doing to help?

Oregon is utilizing a variety of ways to address the grow-

ing crisis of opioids within its borders. OHA has implemented two legislative initiatives addressing substance use disorders and overdoses: Ballot Measure 110 (the Drug Addiction Treatment and Recovery Act), passed in 2019, and 2022 House Bill 4098 (Opioid Settlement Prevention, Treatment and Recovery Board).

Measure 110 makes screening, health assessment, treatment, and recovery services for drug addiction available “to all those who need and want access to those services.” House Bill 4098 is a settlement between the State of Oregon and four companies that manufacture and distribute opioids. Starting in 2022, $325 million will be awarded to Oregon over 18 years through the settlement. Per the OHA website, these funds can be used for “a wide variety of opioid prevention, treatment, and recovery strategies.”

The OHA has also invested $1.35 billion from the 2021-2023 biennium to address behavioral health system transformation. In 2020, the OHA also put forward a four-year improvement plan called Healthier Together Oregon, which acts as a “blueprint for Oregon’s public health system modernization.”

In their briefing to the Governor’s Office, the OHA outlined the following tactics to address the complex systemic transformation Oregon needs to address drug use and overdoses: 1. Leadership from the Oregon Governor’s Office to implement a cross-agency, multi-sector governance structure to further align and leverage prevention, harm reduction, treatment, and recovery strategic plans, initiatives, and key strategies.

2. Integrated harm reduction approaches across the SUD continuum of prevention, care, treatment, and recovery and increased culturally specific resources and services.

3. Community-level prevention interventions that address intergenerational substance use and root causes of factors that contribute to substance use and overdose, including racism, stigma, and the many forms of trauma.

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Wednesday, December 27, 2023

Year in Review 2023

Rep. Suzanne Bonamici tours Riverfront District WILL LOHRE Country Media, Inc. Originally published in The Chronicle Vol. 141, Aug. 23, 2023

Congresswoman Suzanne Bonamici visited downtown St. Helens to meet with city officials to observe the progress on the various projects underway in the historic Riverfront District.

On a hot morning Aug. 15, Bonamici surveyed the developing site of the future riverwalk and Columbia View Park and toured the areas under construction as part of the Streets and Utilities Extension Project.

“It’s been a few years since I’ve been here, and it’s wonderful to see the vision but also the progress that’s being made; I look forward to following the process as it continues to grow,” Bonamici said.

Mayor Rick Scholl, County Commissioner Kellie Jo Smith, City Administrator John Walsh, Public Works Director Mouhamad Zaher, Columbia Economic Team Executive Director Paul Vo-

gel, and others accompanied Bonamici and her staff on the tour and answered questions about the projects.

“It meant a lot. St. Helens has a got a lot going on. We’re dumping $15 million into this project right now, and to have Congresswoman Suzanne Bonamici out here to see that is a good thing,” Scholl said.

“I love championing our city when we have so much going on and show them the vision of what it’s going to be.”

The redevelopment of the Riverfront District has been more than a decade in the making. The Streets and Utilities Extension Project is part of the city’s efforts to redevelop 275 acres of waterfront property along the Columbia River.

The properties that make up the Waterfront Redevelopment Project are:

• The 24-acre former Boise Veneer Mill site.

• The 204-acre former Boise paper mill site.

• The city’s 50-acre wastewater treatment plant property.

The purchase of the mill

Will Lohre / Country Media, Inc.

Mayor Rick Scholl, Congresswoman Suzanne Bonamici, Public Works Director Mouhamad Zaher, and City Administrator John Walsh stand in the construction zone at the intersection of St. Helens Street and S 1st Street.

properties in 2015 set the stage for a large-scale reimagining of what the riverfront could offer to residents and visitors of St. Helens. “[Creating] two miles of connected active waterfront is by far the most transformative project we have in process. Any community would welcome the opportunities that we have here, with an old mill site that went out and an opportunity to expand their core,” John Walsh said.

“We’ve worked for more than a decade pretty active on it.”

The Streets and Utilities Extension Project aims to improve key streets and intersections in the city’s historic Riverfront District and extend utilities onto the city’s 24-acre Riverfront Property.

During the tour, Bonamici got a first-hand look at some of the exciting developments.

The tour began with city officials showing Bonamici Columbia View Park and

explaining the exciting plans for its revitalization through Phase One of the St. Helens Riverwalk Project is anticipated to break ground in the Fall of 2023.

The first phase will include the expansion of Columbia View Park, the construction of approximately 300 feet of riverwalk with a viewing overlook of the Columbia River and pedestrian seating, a new amphitheater stage, and a new playground. Scholl said components of Phase One could be ready to be enjoyed in 2025.

“Phase One is going to be absolutely a gem,” said Scholl.

Next, the group surveyed the construction at the intersections of St. Helens Street and Cowlitz Street along S. First Street. Both are components of the Streets and Utilities Project. City officials hope the intersection of St. Helens and S. First Street will feature a gate into the Riverfront District, which is still in the design process.

Bonamici pointed to the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act as a potential source

of funding for undertakings like the Waterfront Redevelopment Project.

“We’re going to be looking for opportunities to help because when we passed the big infrastructure bill, that’s designed to really build out, not just roads and bridges, but grids, ports, jetties, it’s just a broader definition of infrastructure,” Bonamici said.

When asked what Bonamici is hearing from her constituents in Columbia County, Bonamici said that affordable housing, affordable child care, and getting federal funding to local communities.

Bonamici said visiting the communities she represents means a lot to her.

“I don’t make my decisions just sitting in Washington, D.C. When I connect with the people who are affected by the decisions and hear their ideas, their questions, their stories, their concerns, then I take those, and I go to D.C. with those ideas and thoughts and questions in mind,” Bonamici said. “That’s what representation is about. We can’t do our job without hearing from the people we represent.”

CRFR Board votes to terminate Fire Chief Joel Medina WILL LOHRE Country Media, Inc.

Joel Medina has been fired from his position as Fire Chief of Columbia River Fire & Rescue (CRFR) effective immediately, following a vote by the CRFR Board of Directors at a regular session Aug. 8.

The meeting began with a surprise addition to the agenda, which included a motion to terminate Medina with immediate effect. After much discussion, the three new board members, Ryan Welby, Austin Zimbrick, and Rick Fletcher, voted to immediately remove Medina from his position.

Board Director Gary Hudson voted against removing Medina, and Board President Kelly Niles abstained from voting. With a 3-1 majority, the motion carried. Niles stated that he abstained from voting because he favored putting Medina on administrative leave.

For Welby, Zimbrick, and Fletcher, the Aug. 8 meeting was only their second meeting, and they were elected in May after campaigning with the backing of the local firefighters union. Niles read the motion to terminate Medina.

“Whereas the board has been confronted with misconduct that does not warrant counseling and which warrants immediate discharge per cause,” Niles said.

Within the motion, it was stated that Medina had committed acts of fraud,

misappropriation of funds, failure to comply with legal requirements, and discourteous treatment of subordinates, volunteers, and citizens, among other reasons.

“Therefore, it is hereby resolved that Joel Medina is discharged from his duties as the fire chief, and his employment under Columbia River Fire and Rescue is terminated for cause effective immediately,” Niles said.

Upon the passing of the resolution, Medina left the board meeting, and the board appointed Division Chief Michael Gorsuch as interim Fire Chief. The Chronicle reached out to Medina for comment, and he responded, “No comment.”

Director Hudson expressed concern over the action of terminating Medina.

When the topic of placing Medina on administrative leave was broached at an emergency meeting Apr. 28.

Akin Blitz, an attorney for CRFR, said that he did not believe placing Medina on leave was necessary, and the board agreed, with the exception of Niles.

When the results of the May Special Election were announced, former board president Hans Feige said that he was concerned the new board members would serve the union and expressed a desire for the board to let Medina retain his position until the findings of the investigation into district finances were revealed.

Courtesy photo from Columbia River Fire & Rescue

Columbia River Fire & Rescue hired Joel Medina in December of 2020.

Hudson raised concerns about the board’s preparedness to take the measure and pointed to the fact that they came prepared to appoint an interim fire chief as potential evidence of collusion prior to the meeting, which could be a violation of public meeting laws.

“If you guys think this doesn’t look like collusion, that you’ve come prepared like this, it’s kind of embarrassing,” Hudson said.

“Another nail, but not for me, for the district, and for you all.”

Hudson said that any of the board members who voted to take this action could be liable if Medina chooses to bring litigation against the district regarding his termination.

Background Medina’s termination follows months of controversy within the fire district.

At a board meeting on Jul. 11, Zimbrick, Welby, and Fletcher were sworn in as the three new members of the district’s board and, among the proceedings, elected to continue the forensic audit that was ordered on Apr. 28.

Prior to the forensic audit being ordered, a civil lawsuit was filed against the CRFR and Chief Joel Medina on Apr. 7 by former employees Anika Todd and Jennifer Motherway, alleging sexual harassment, wrongful termination, retaliation, and a hostile work environment. A third employee, Monica Cade, joined the lawsuit on Apr. 28. The local union also filed a unanimous vote of no confidence against Medina Apr. 11.

A second, amended Vote of No Confidence from the union was filed Aug. 7. The second Vote of No Confidence expressed concerns

over Division Chief Jimmy Sanchez, Deputy Chief Eric Smythe, and Board Director Gary Hudson.

“The Union felt that since the previous board took little to no action regarding the previous No Confidence Vote(NCV), we felt that we first needed to raise the issue with the new board. Union President Aaron Schrotzberger said.

“Second, we felt that there is a need to expose the issues that have been created by other administrators that Medina is in charge of. The Board of Directors needs to know what Joel Medina isn’t telling them and the ongoing failures of his subordinates. All the while, he is painting the picture to the board that he is making things better.”

Schrotzberger said that Hudson was included in the second Vote of No Confidence because of “continuous poor leadership at his level.”

“Gary Hudson’s performance as a Board member does not reflect the professionalism and competency that we as professional firefighters expect,” Schrotzberger said. “The ‘bar’ that he has set and performs to, is also all that he expects his subordinate(Joel Medina) to perform to, and the union doesn’t wish to work under those sub-par standards.”

The amended Vote of No Confidence cited Sanchez and Smythe for lack of “proficiency, qualifications, and their unprofessional behavior.” Several

accusations were leveled at Smythe and Sanchez regarding their treatment of employees, as well as their failure to uphold professional obligations. The Chronicle reached out to the district for a response to the allegations.

In response to each of the allegations the district was questioned on, they denied wrongdoing or would not comment due to the ongoing arbitration regarding the contract dispute between the union and the Board of Directors.

During the Aug. 8 meeting, Hudson raised concerns that the decision to terminate Medina was being based on allegations rather than proven wrongdoing. Hudson said that this measure could result in financial consequences for the district.

Niles was not named in the second Vote of No Confidence, and Schrotzberger said this was because Niles had shown a willingness to place Medina on leave and investigate the accusations of the first Vote of No Confidence. Niles acknowledged the potential risks and said this decision was a difficult one for him.

“I struggled with this for a long time because I’ve been part of this board for the last six years. Some of the things that Director Hudson has said tonight are accurate; he’s not wrong,” Niles said. “There are various consequences for our actions either way, and they’re not going to be pretty.”

St. Helens set for silver screen, again WILL LOHRE Country Media, Inc. Originally published in The Chronicle Vol. 141, June, 21, 2023

The historic Riverfront District in St. Helens will feature on the silver screen again, adding to the rich history of St. Helens as a cinematic setting.

A Massachusetts based production, Test Screening the Movie, LLC took over part of downtown on June 9 and 10. While not much is known about the details of this movie at this time, we do know how and why St. Helens was chosen as the filming location.

Choosing St. Helens When a production company wants to film in Oregon, one of its first calls is to the Oregon Film and Video Office. When production companies reach out to Oregon Film, they generally know what type of town or location they are looking for.

“They either send us a script and, or a breakdown of the locations needed and oftentimes will attach reference photos and descriptions.

Based on what they are looking for, we will create a location package for them from

the thousands of locations that we have in our location database, which is constantly evolving,” Strategic Initiatives & Community Project Strategist for Oregon Film and Video Office Jane Ridley said. “There is often added research and information to send on potential locations that may not be listed in our database.”

Oregon Film is a semistate agency that exists to attract production to the state. Their mission is to promote the development of the film, television, commercial, and interactive industry in Oregon and to enhance the industry’s revenues, profile, and reputation within Oregon and among the industry internationally, according to Ridley.

When Test Screening the Movie, LLC reached out to the Oregon Film and Video Office; they had specific ideas surrounding locations and towns they wanted to film at. St. Helens was one of the suggested filming locations for several reasons.

“They were going for a small-town feel and had specific locations that pertained to the movie that might have been a good fit,” Ridley said.

“St. Helens has been “film friendly” in the past and is best known for Halloween-

town, and Twilight, among others.”

Upon deciding to use St. Helens as its filming location, Test Screening the Movie, LLC applied for a Special Use Permit with the city to film in the Riverfront District. City departments reviewed the permit, and staff worked with the company to ensure traffic control requirements were met and to help identify parking options, according to St. Helens Communications Officer Crystal King.

On June 8, the production company began preparing South First Street for its set. By the time the movie started shooting on June 9, the Riverfront District was transformed into a scene straight out of the ‘80s, with retro cars up and down the block and retro-styled storefront designs surrounding the Columbia Theater.

While it was a drizzly day, the cast, crew, and production workers went through their shoots despite the weather, observed by curious downtown goers and business owners.

Benefits of the Big Screen The timeline by which this film will be completed is unclear, but the benefits of

ing; it is an exciting sector to embrace.

Will Lohre / Country Media, Inc.

Production crew keeping the talent and filming technology dry with umbrellas and plastic wrap during the movie shoot.

having a movie set in a small town can be substantial.

These are the three primary ways, according to Ridley: 1. Filming provides economic benefits and development to a town location by utilizing services, stores, paying for parking fees, permit fees, etc. Sometimes it can even provide jobs. Often a production will leave a location better than when they found it by making improvements that were necessary

for production. Occasionally they may donate items, such as set pieces, or props, etc., to local schools and the like.

2. It galvanizes pride in the community - there is nothing quite like seeing your hometown playing a part on the big or little screen.

3. Exposure always provides the potential to attract new visitors. “Film Tourism” is a very fast-growing sector and can reach beyond the confines of traditional RDM or DMO tourism advertis-

When asked about the economic value of allowing films to shoot in St. Helens, King’s response for the City echoed Ridley’s answers.

King said that such projects are a good way to increase tourism and visibility.

“Depending on how well a film does, being a filming location brings recognition to St. Helens and can create a tourism draw for people who want to visit popular movie filming locations,” King said.

“We have seen this happen in St. Helens with Halloweentown and Twilight. Local businesses may also see a benefit from the production company shopping or dining at businesses while they are in the area.”

St. Helens signature event, The Spirit of Halloweentown, is held each fall, as the town leans into its spooky side during an event that draws people from around the country to tap into the Halloween spirit.

The event began after St. Helens was featured in the Disney Channel Halloween classic Halloweentown in 1998. This year the Spirit of Halloweentown will last from September 16 - October 31.

Wednesday, December 27, 2023

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Year in Review 2023

Middle school wrestling team takes second at State

Courtesy photo from Donnie Brummer

St. Helens Middle School Girls Wrestling Team from left to right, Jadyn Pense, Addison Andrehsen, Annaliese Steele, Izabella McColm, Rebel Peau, Nora Dame, Nova Woolworth, Leah Yarbor. Coaches left to right: Cole Dicarlo, Donnie Brummer, Jeff Andrehsen, Michael Zacharias.

WILL LOHRE Country Media, Inc. Originally published in The Chronicle Vol. 141, June 14, 2023

While this spring has featured many successes for St. Helens High School sports, athletic excellence has extended to St. Helens Middle School as well.

The St. Helens Middle School Girls Wrestling Team was crowned district champions for their third season running and achieved its second consecutive finish as the secondbest team in the state. The team wrapped up its season with the state tournament in April, and coach Donnie Brummer was ecstatic with their finish.

“It was a grueling tournament. All of our girls

wrestled with heart and showed the advancement they made this season,” Brummer said. “How we ended the season versus how we started was truly spectacular.”

While wrestling is an individual sport, teams as a whole score points based on how their wrestlers finish.

With many of its wrestlers performing well across the different weight classes, St. Helens secured a secondplace finish off those strong performances.

The team consisted of: Nora Dame 90 lb Izabella McColm 102 lb Addison Andrehsen 110 lb Kayla Caven 115 lb Rebel Peau 115 lb Annaliese Steele 125 lb Nova Woolworth 125 lb Karley Siemienczuk 140

lb

Leah Yarbor 160 lb Jadyn Pense 160 lb Vivianna Scott 220 lb

Stand out performances Across the divisions, St. Helens had some fantastic performances. Scott won 1st place in the 220 lb division and was the state champion.

Dame and Steele finished 2nd place in the 90 lb and 125 lb competitions, respectively. Pense finished 3rd in the 160 lb class, and Peau and Woolworth finished 5th and 6th in their respective brackets.

Scott’s road to becoming state champion was especially unique because she had never played sports before joining the team this year. When asked about standout performers at state,

State champion Vivianna Scott atop the podium.

Brummer said that each of the team’s finalists led the way for the team.

“New to our program was Annaliese Steele, making the state finals after a grueling tournament. Nora Dame made the finals and was winning all season long. She is one of our veterans and leaders,” Brummer said. “Vivianna Scott was brand new to sports in general and was the most improved wrestler on our team. Going from never playing a sport to a state title in 1 season is very unique. We may never see it again.”

Next year Andrehsen, Pense, Steele, and Yarbor will make the leap to high school and bolster the ranks of an already strong St. Helens High School wrestling program.

While the finalists

performed well and were instrumental to the program’s success, Brummer also said that other members of the team stepped up in the season’s final stages.

“Jadyn Pense was a standout and leader all year long. There are some kids that go out there and win week after week. She is one of those girls. She won many matches against male wrestlers throughout the season,” Brummer said.

“Nova Woolworth battled through an intense injury at the end of the season. She refused to not be there for her team at the state tournament. She managed to finish 6th. Rebel Peau, a 6th-grade phenomenon, managed to secure 5th place, which is the highest finish by a 6th grader I’ve seen by a male or female.”

Courtesy photo from Donnie Brummer

Takeaways beyond the mats While clearly, there were many triumphs for St. Helens Middle School wrestling this year competitively, the takeaways from the sport go beyond the competition itself. Brummer and the other coaches try and help their athletes learn lessons that will help them in their everyday lives.

“Wrestling teaches so much about life. We hope all of our girls learn about perseverance, hard work, and what we are able to achieve if we put in the blood, sweat, and tears,” Brummer said.

With some of its strongest competitors returning for next year, St. Helens Middle School promises to be competitive beyond this historic season.

Scappoose High School captures State title WILL LOHRE Country Media, Inc. Originally published in The Chronicle Vol. 141, June 14, 2023

Scappoose High School Baseball has won the 4 A 2023 OSAA/OnPoint Community Credit Union 4A Baseball State Championship, defeating Pendleton 12-2 in dominant fashion.

Scappoose ran through the state bracket, winning confidently at each step, but while the final scores showed wide margins, Head Coach Cameron Webb said that they had to come back to win in three of their four games.

Going into the season, Webb and his program had ideas of what they could accomplish, but for a team that hadn’t won before, Webb felt that getting the team to believe in themselves was one of his priorities.

“We were talking early this season, you know, about that our goal should be a state championship.

When a team’s never been there before, you kind of

Courtesy photo from Josi Welter

Scappoose High School Baseball captured the 4 A state title, defeating Pendleton 12-2 on June 3.

have to paint the picture for them of what that would look like and why that’s possible,” Webb said. “The kids were in on that from the start. They committed to that, and they were a really hard-working group.”

For Webb and his team, one of the mantras for their

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team was focusing on process over results. The team focused on bringing positive energy and not allowing situations to affect their team’s morale. Whether they were down 2-0 or winning by a bunch, Scappoose strove for consistency.

“Every day, we were

bringing a positive attitude.

We had a bunch of practices in the pouring rain, in the mud, and we were always running out there like, ‘Perfect weather, great day for baseball,’ and that was contagious for the team,” Webb said. “They bring that genuine positive energy to it, and then they put in enough work where they believe in themselves.”

Super seniors While the team overall is pretty young, one of the keys to its success was its seniors’ leadership. Wyatt Anicker, Matthew Gross, Trey Fuller, and Chase Olsen each stepped up to the plate this season. Fuller, Olsen, and Anicker are also great players who have captured all-league honors each of the last three seasons.

“I knew it was going to be sad saying goodbye to these seniors. For me as a coach, I’ve been coaching Scappoose for five years, so I have been working with those guys since they were in 8th grade, and I’ve really been able to watch them grow up,” Webb said.

“It was pretty nice to be able to say bye to them after a win. Yeah, they’re going out, but they accomplished this pinnacle goal that we’ve been working toward for five years.”

Olson will be moving on to play college baseball at Centralia College, while Fuller and Anicker are still in the recruiting process to try and play at the next level. Gross will go to train to be a helicopter pilot in the army.

Rising to the occasion While the seniors led the way it was the young members of the team who stepped up in the championship run. Sophomores Joe Fagan, Max Nowlin, and Quinn Olson shone in the finals, especially at the plate. Junior Grayson Grover was named MVP of the final for his contributions on the mound.

“Our star performances were from a lot of younger guys,” Webb said. “A lot of our core group are coming back.”

For next year, Webb has high hopes about what the team can achieve off the back of this year’s success. Having seen what it took to win a championship this year, Webb and his team know what can be achieved. Webb said that it’s time to work harder than ever before and that it’s not the time to get complacent.

In addition to their tremendous team success, Scappoose had several players recognized with in-

dividual awards. Fagan was named Player of the Year for the Cowapa League and awarded First Team All-State in 4 A as a sophomore. Fuller was named Second Team All-State as an outfielder. Olson and Anicker were each named to the 4 A Third Team All-State, and Anicker was recognized as Co-Pitcher of the Year for the Cowapa League. Though they got a lot of recognition, Webb feels that the team could have had even more representation.

“We had such a deep team this year, like 1-9, and really 1-13; we had so many capable, accomplished players that really we feel like more of our guys could have received honors,” Webb said. “It’s just another reason why the focus is on winning the state championship. The awards and honors are kind of political, and you never know what you’re going to get. Well, if we go and win the title, no one can debate that.”

Going forward, Scappoose will look to hold itself to the high bar it has set, and its young team promises to give them another chance at a state championship. With a culture of commitment to a team goal, Scappoose has all the tools it needs to try and defend its title.

Columbia County’s trusted local news source

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News and Views

Maximizing financial opportunities in 2024 JULIA CARLSON Financial Freedom Chronicle Guest Article

As we embark on a new year, there are a few notable changes that you may find beneficial.

The U.S. government has announced new retirement account contribution limits, a new 529 rollover into an IRA option, and Social Security cost-of-living increases. Below is a brief overview of those changes.

401(k) plans and other defined contribution plans The employee contribution limit for 401(k) plans, 403(b) plans, most 457 plans, and the Thrift Savings Plan (TSP) is increasing to $23,000 in 2024, up from $22,500 in 2023. The catch-up contribution limit for participants aged 50 and older remains unchanged at an additional $7,500 for the year.

Individual retirement accounts (IRAs) The contribution limit for IRAs is increasing to $7,000 in 2024, up from $6,500 in 2023. The catchup contribution limit for IRA participants aged 50 and older remains unchanged at $1,000 for a total of $8,000 for 2024.

Other retirement account contribution limits The following retirement account contribution limits are also increasing for 2024:

• SIMPLE IRA employee contribution limit: $16,000 (up from $15,500 in 2023).

The catch-up contribution allows employees aged 50 and older an additional $3,500 for the year, or $19,500 for 2024.

• SEP IRA employer contribution limit: Up to 25% of compensation with a maximum of $69,000 for 2024.

If you are saving for retirement, these changes provide an opportunity to increase your contributions to reach your savings goals.

To adjust your contributions, you will need to contact your plan administrator or your employer.

529 rollover to roth IRA This is a new provision that allows you to rollover up to $35,000 of unused funds from a 529 plan to a Roth IRA for the beneficiary of the 529 plan.

To be eligible, the 529 plan must have been open for at least 15 years and the funds being rolled over must have been in the 529 plan for at least five years.

The annual rollover limit is the lesser of the annual Roth IRA contribution limit ($6,000 for 2023) and the amount of unused funds in the 529 plan. There is a lifetime rollover limit of $35,000 per beneficiary.

Social Security increases The cost-of-living adjustment (COLA) for Social Security benefits will be 3.2 percent starting January

2024. This means that Social Security recipients will see a 3.2 percent increase in their monthly benefits next year.

Recipients will not need to apply for the increase as it will be automatically adjusted.

Final thoughts As you navigate the financial landscape in the new year, consult with your financial and tax professionals to assess your circumstances and develop a personalized financial plan that aligns with your goals and risk tolerance. By staying informed and making proactive decisions, you can more effectively manage your finances while working toward a brighter financial future.

Information in this column is for general purposes only and not intended as investment, tax, or legal advice. Please consult the appropriate professionals for specific information regarding your individual situation prior to making any financial decision.

Email me your questions at info@financialfreedomwmg.com or call/text 458-7774458. You can also post your question on our Facebook page: https://www.facebook. com/FinancialFreedomWealthManagementGroup or find us on Instagram @ financialfreedomwmg.

Julia Carlson is a registered representative with, and securities and advisory services offered through LPL Financial, a registered investment advisor, member FINRA/SIPC.

Voices of the Community Thank you Scappoose Share & Care wishes to thank everyone throughout our community who helped with the 2023 program.

During a difficult economic period, our community once again pulled together and provided food, clothing, healthcare items and toys to nearly 160 families in need.

Local businesses, churches and the library sponsored giving trees at their locations.

In addition to wonderful giving trees, private individuals, groups, and businesses also sponsored a few applicants and provided them with household items, food, clothing, toys, and experiences beyond what Share and Care can do each year.

A highlight of our year is decorating the Scappoose Fire District Fire Boat and parading Santa along our waterfront! Our annual participation with the Christmas Ships and their various gatherings along the route brought in bags of toys and cash donations.

Please remember that families in need don’t just need help during the holidays, they need help all year long.

Please consider making a food or cash donation to your local food bank. St. Vincent DePaul Foodbank is located at 51555 SW Old Portland Rd, Scappoose, OR 97056.

You may drop off food on Tuesdays or Thursdays from 1-3 PM or call 503-5437495x15 for more information.

Linda di Pietro Scappoose Share and Care

Response to Mr. Custer This letter is in response to Mr. Chuck Custer’s letter A Good Old Boys Club, published in The Chronicle on December 20.

We currently have a contractor working on boring through hard basalt rock in St. Helens, and then installing conduit. This will enable us to remove the overhead power lines in this heavily treed area and install underground power lines in their place.

The boring process uses water to remove rock and dirt from the ground. This combination of rock, dirt,

and water – the naturally occurring materials that Mr. Custer referred to as ‘sludge’ – is being piled on the site temporarily. Once the boring is completed, the contractor will safely and responsibly remove these materials.

The contractor is legally parking equipment in the area temporarily. By parking on site and piling up rock and dirt to be removed all at once, the contractor is helping this project stay on schedule.

Once the contractor’s work is complete, we will convert the overhead power lines to underground lines.

This will benefit customers in the area twofold: It will help prevent power outages caused by winter storms and help mitigate the threat of wildfire.

We have worked closely with the City of St. Helens on this project to ensure we are complying with all regulations. We will continue to work quickly and responsibly to complete this project, thereby improving the safety and reliability of our electric distribution system.

Happy holidays!

Michael Sykes General Manager, Columbia River PUD

The Chronicle Frank Perea Publisher

Will Lohre Editor

Jeremy C. Ruark Executive Regional Editor

Community Events Dec. 27 Blood Drive at Columbia City Community Hall Noon - 5:30 p.m. at Columbia City Community Hall, 1850 Second St., Columbia City, OR 97018. To schedule your appointment or for more information, please call 1-800-RED-CROSS or visit www.redcrossblood. org. Sponsor code: ColumbiaCC. Dec. 31 Open Mic and Talent Show at St. Helens Moose Lodge 4 p.m. - 7 p.m. at the St. Helens Moose Lodge, 57317 Old Portland Rd., Warren, OR. This is a free event and open to the public. Come ready to perform (5 minute stage time). If you would like to participate or have questions, please call Eddie Querner at 503-442-8307.

Please don’t call after 7 p.m. and leave a message if needed.

Ongoing Events Fridays 2 p.m. - 4 p.m. Caples House offers Tea and Sweets: a bottomless cup of tea with a homemade dessert. Cost is $5. In The Cottage, 1925 First Street in Columbia City. Call 503-3975390 for more details.

Fridays - Sunday 1 p.m. - 5 p.m. - Caples House Museum Tours, 1925

1st Street in Columbia City.

Cost is $5. Stop by and see what has changed. For more information, call 503-3975390.

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

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

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

For more information call Debbie at 503-560-0521, Daniel Grant at 714-7689327 or check the Resonate Facebook page.

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

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

Celebrate Recovery 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.

Tea and Sweet on Fridays 2 p.m.- 4 p.m. Have tea and a sweet in Caples’ Cottage, 1925 1st Street in Columbia City. Cost is $5. 503-3975390.

Storytime on Mondays 11 a.m. at the Columbia City Library, 2000 Second St. in Columbia City. For questions call, 503-366-8020.

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.

Weekly Online Poll

Last Week’s Results

Did you get everything you wanted for Christmas?

Would you like to see a white Christmas this year?

64.7% Yes 35.3% No

Yes

No

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

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Crossword Solution

Year in Review 2023

Solution for the Dec. 20, 2023 crossword puzzle

‘Simple’ assignment gains world attention JEREMY C. RUARK Country Media, Inc. Originally published in The Chronicle Vol. 141, May 31, 2023

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What a local teacher has done is gaining worldwide attention.

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

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

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

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

The Chronicle: Why did you compose Tantrum and what does it mean to you and to your students?

Travis Freshner: Tantrum began as a simple extension of a project I was doing with my classes. I often do simple creativity

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

and composition assignments with my students, just to introduce them to the idea of creating something musical of their own. Then I decided that if I was going to ask them to try something new, it was only fair for me to try something new, too.

So, while they were given a smaller and simpler project, I gave myself the challenge of writing something on a larger scale for them, which eventually turned into Tantrum.

The piece was inspired by my observations as a young father; not just of my own son’s behavior, but also by the behaviors I saw from other kids when dealing with the hardships and frustrations of toddlerhood.

Throughout the piece, I tried to capture the different stages or phases of a fullblown meltdown tantrum.

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

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

The Chronicle: Briefly, what is your teaching background?

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

Courtesy photo

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

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

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

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

Candlelight Vigil for Sarah Zuber

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Crowd gathers beneath a rainbow at Rainier City Park for the candlelight vigil for Sarah Zuber.

WILL LOHRE Country Media, Inc. Originally published in The Chronicle Vol. 141, March 15, 2023

A candlelight vigil hosted by the Zuber family and the Justice For Sarah Zuber group was held at Ranier City Park at 6 p.m. Monday, March 13. More than 50 people were in attendance for the event. Though it had been a rainy day, the sun broke through the clouds, and a rainbow appeared as the group gathered for a statement from Sarah Zuber’s parents, Randy and Rebecca Zuber.

“In difficult times, we have a tendency to revert into one’s own self. To pull away from our loved ones, our friends, family. To hide, to withdraw, to seek to be alone, often we don’t know who to turn to even though there are people all around us. Maybe it is trust, or oftentimes it is that we just don’t have the energy to seek someone out,” Rebecca Zuber said. “It has been four years today, and yet it was yesterday in the heart of those closest to her.

When Sarah was killed, our family was shattered.

Our family was shattered in

slow motion; we didn’t even realize the depths of that brokenness until recently.”

On March 13, 2019, Sarah Zuber’s body was found by her sister Katie Zuber, on the side of Neer City Road in Rainier, less than 400 feet from her home. After an investigation by a major crimes team, Oregon State Medical Examiner Rebecca Millius ruled that the death was accidental and caused by “combined deterious effects of acute ethanol (beverage alcohol) intoxication and hypothermia due to exposure.”

In a letter issued to Columbia County media outlets in October of 2022, Rebecca Zuber outlined that the family had reservations about the findings of the investigation and how the investigation was handled.

“From the beginning, Sarah’s suspicious death investigation was handled incompetently,” the letter read. “Because no trained special investigative crime team is available in Columbia County, Sarah’s case suffered a plethora of mishaps, missed opportunities, miscommunication, half-completed interviews and lost evidence.”

The Justice For Sarah

Zuber Facebook page, a page created to bring awareness to the ongoing plight of the family, now has around 2,000 followers.

Now, four years later, because of public interest, the case has been reopened by the Columbia County District Attorney. District Attorney Jeff Auxier stated to the Chronicle in early February that he believes the original outcome of the case was correct, but that the investigation has been reopened and turned over to the Oregon Department of Justice (DOJ).

“Based on recent requests from the public, I have reopened the investigation and have turned over the investigative materials to the Oregon Department of Justice so they can independently review the case,” Auxier said. “We are currently waiting to hear whether they agree with our conclusion, or whether they have recommendations for us in terms of additional investigative steps we could take. If they think we missed something during the first investigation, we will promptly conduct any follow-up they recommend.”

Auxier said that having

Will Lohre / Country Media, Inc.

a group of independent and experienced attorneys and investigators review the case was the best way to start reopening the investigation.

With the DOJ investigation underway, Auxier hopes that will bring the four years of disquiet for the family to an end. In her address to the gathering at the vigil, Rebecca Zuber thanked those who have continued to help the family in their time of need.

“In 2019, we were too withdrawn to notice all the ways the community loved on us. And again now, we have a new movement to draw out answers and closure to this very personal, yet public tragedy. Today, we want to say thank you.

Two small words for such a huge emotion,” Rebecca Zuber said. “Many are gathered tonight, and thousands more online who have spent hundreds of volunteer hours and given personal testimony, opinions, specific tips, and information regarding Sarah’s investigation. This in itself is a major testimony of what happens when a community gathers together around a family in mourning and a daughter whose young life was taken.”

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Public Notices CH23-1489

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING (Remote Access Available) Date: January 10, 2024 File # CU 23-11 & DR 21-03 MOD Owner: Port of Columbia County/NEXT Renewable Fuels, Inc. Applicant: NEXT Renewable Fuels, Inc. Map/Taxlots: 842200-00100, 8422-00-00200, 8422-00-01100, 8421-0000700, 8416-00-00200, 8416-00-00300, 8422-0000300, 8423-B0-00700, and 8423-B0-00800 Site Address: 81009 Kallunki Road, Clatskanie, OR 97016 Zone: RIPD – Resource Industrial Planned Development & Primary Agriculture – PA-80 Size: ~125 Acres NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that NEXT Renewable Fuels, Inc., has submitted an application, for a Modification of Prior Approval for a previously approved Site Design Review and Variance (DR 21-03/V 21-05). If approved, the proposal would relocate the rail tracks, tree buffer, and storm facilities northward from the Primary Agriculture (PA-80) zone into the Rural Industrial Planned Development (RIPD) zone.

The rail tracks, tree buffer

and storm facilities were previously approved as part of a separate application (CU 21-04), but that application was appealed and reversed by the Oregon Land Use Board of Appeals. The application proposes moving the rail tracks, tree buffer and storm facilities entirely onto land zoned RIPD. The properties total approximately 109 acres and are located at 81009 Kallunki Road. In addition to the Modification of Prior Approval, the applicant has submitted an application for a Conditional Use Permit for a proposed railroad branchline in the Primary Agriculture (PA80) zone, intended to serve the previously approved renewable diesel production facility. The application proposes a limited rail connection between the renewable diesel production facility and the existing Portland & Western Railroad tracks. The two affected tax lots include 8423-B0-00700 and 8423B0-00800 and total approximately 15.9 acres. SAID PUBLIC HEARING will be

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held before the Columbia County Board of Commissioners on Wednesday, January 10th, 2024, starting at or after 10:00am. This meeting will be hybrid in nature, allowing participants to log into a digital GoTo-Meeting (link provided below) or attend in person at 230 Strand Street, Room 310, St. Helens, OR 97051. https://global.gotomeeting. com/join/357054141 United States (Toll Free): 1 866 899 4679 Access Code: 357054-141 Interested parties may appear and be heard. If you have any questions or concerns regarding access to the meeting or need accommodation, please call Jacyn Normine in the Board of Commissioner’s office at (503) 397-4322. The criteria to be used in deciding the request will be found in the following: Columbia County Zoning Ordinance Section 200 General Provisions Section 300 Primary Agriculture, Section 680 Resource Industrial-Planned Development, Section 1100 Flood Hazard Overlay, Section

1120 Sensitive Bird Habitat Overlay, Section 1130 Historic Overlay, Section 1170 Riparian Corridors, Wetlands, Water Quality, and Fish and Wild-life Habitat Protection Overlay Zone, Section 1180 Wetland Area Overlay, Section 1185 Natural Area Overlay, Section 1190 Big Game Habitat Overlay, Section 1300 Signs, Section 1400 Off-Street Parking and Loading, Section 1450 Transportation Impact Analysis, Section 1550 Site De-sign Review, Section 1603 Quasijudicial Public Hearings, as well as Columbia County Stormwater and Erosion Control Ordinance Section I(B) Applicability. A copy of the staff report will be available for inspection at no cost at least one week prior to the public hearing. Copies of these materials will be provided at a reasonable cost upon request. All application materials will also be available for inspection in person or on the Columbia County Board of Commissioner’s webpage at: https://www.

columbiacountyor.gov/departments/BoardofCommissionersOffice/Hearings You received this notice because you own property located near the property that is the subject of this notice.

Columbia County is required only to notify the applicant, owner, owners of record of property of adjacent properties per the most recent property tax assessment roll, and other persons identified.

You may want to share this notice with others in your neighborhood as some may not be aware of the proposal.

Notice to mortgagee, lien holder, vendor or seller: ORS Chapter 215 requires that if you receive this notice, it must be promptly forwarded to the purchaser.

Failure to raise an issue in a hearing, in person or by writing, or failure to provide statements or evidence sufficient to afford the Approval Authority an opportunity to respond to the issue precludes raising the issue in an appeal to the Land Use Board of Appeals. Additional information about this

application may be obtained by calling Hayden Richardson at (503) 397-1501.

Written materials may be submitted prior to the public hearing. Those submitting written materials are encouraged to submit their materials prior to the date of the public hearing. Please submit written materials to Planning@ColumbiaCountyOR.gov You can also send written materials via US Mail to: Columbia County Land Development Services Attn: Planning 230 Strand Street St. Helens, OR 97051 The hearing will be held according to the procedures established in the Columbia County Zoning Ordinance, including CCZO Section 1603, and in accordance with ORS 197.797. Under state law, the failure to raise an issue at the hearing, in person or by letter, or the failure to provide statements or evidence sufficient to afford the decision-maker an opportunity to respond to the issue, precludes the ability to appeal the decision based on that issue.

Wednesday, December 27, 2023

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Public Notices CH23-1493

NOTICE OF BUDGET ORIENTATION WORKSHOP IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE STATE OF City of St. Helens Notice of Budget Orientation Workshop Fiscal Year 2024-2025 Budget Committee Meeting The City of St. Helens Budget Committee will meet on Thursday, January 11, 2024, beginning at 6 p.m. The purpose of the meeting is to provide Budget Committee training and review ex-pectations and processes. The Committee and City staff will review

information regarding the current FY2023-24 budget and challenges, however, there will be no deliberations on the development of the proposed FY2024-25 budget. The budget calendar for FY2024-25 can be found on the City of St. Helens website: www. sthelensoregon.gov/finance.

The meeting will be held via Zoom and in-person in the Council Chambers at

City Hall, 265 Strand Street, Plaza Entrance, St. Helens, Oregon. Zoom details will be available on the agenda which will be posted on the City’s website by January 5, 2024, at 5:00 p.m. The Council Chambers facility is handicap accessible. If you need special accommodation, please contact City Hall at (503) 397-6272, at least 48 hours before the meeting.

OREGON FOR THE COUNTY OF COLUMBIA Probate Department In the Matter of the Estate of: Marietta Vivian Smets, Deceased. No. 23PB10234 NOTICE TO INTERESTED PERSONS Notice is hereby given that John S. Smets has been appointed personal representative of this estate.

All persons having claims against the estate are hereby required to present their

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

the personal representative, or the attorney for the personal representative. Dated and first published: December 27, 2023. MARK A. GORDON, P.C. /s/ Mark A. Gordon, Esq., Mark A. Gordon, OSB No 81242 Attorney for Personal Representative, 1677 St. Helens Street, St. Helens, Oregon 97051, 503-397-9066, mark@ markgordonpc.com.

CH23-1496

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE STATE OF NOTICE OF MEETING The CC Rider Transit or smartphone. https://meet.

Advisory Committee will be You OREGON FOR THE COUNTY OF COLUMBIA holding a hybrid meeting on goto.com/295482661 can also dial in using your In the Matter of the Estate of MARCELLINE ROHDE, Deceased. No. 23PB10259 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 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 20, 2023. LUKE ADAM HECKA-THORN Personal Representative c/o Lucas & Associates, LLC Attorneys at Law P.O. Box 519 Rainier, OR 97048, Phone 503-556-3741, FAX 503-556-0708, Lucasatty@ yahoo.com.

CH23-1494

NOTICE OF PUBLIC LIEN SALE PUBLIC LIEN SALE U-STORE SELF STORAGE Auction to be held online at Storageauctions. com. Auction will run from 1/9/2024 10:00 am & end

on 1/19/2024 10:00 am. Unclaimed storage lockers to be sold by competitive bidding.

1st Location St. Helens 445 Port Ave, Suite D, Robert C Gilbert RV139, Tyler Jones

M-033, Rhonda Kelly R-144, O-027 Robert Miley R-127, Jon Wagner R-045, Shelly Wiley R-023. 2nd Location: Scappoose 53567 Columbia River Hwy. Richard Burdett

F008, Ana Gonzalez D017, CY62 Michael Oswald Y103. GOODS OF EVERY DESCRIPTION SOLD BY STORAGE LOT. Cash and Credit Cards.

January 16, 2024, at 4:00PM at 1155 Deer Island Rd, St. Helens, Oregon 97051.

Please join my meeting from your computer, tablet

phone. Access Code: 295482-661, United States (Toll Free): 1 877 309 2073 United States: +1 (646) 749-3129 The public is welcome.

CH23-1492

NOTICE OF MEETING McNulty Water PUD will be holding their Board meeting January 9, 2023, at 7pm. The meeting will be located at 34240 Millard Road, Warren Oregon

97053. If you would like the January 9, 2023, Agenda, or the link for Zoom to attend the meeting please contact me at 503-397-1301.

Public Notice deadline is Fridays by noon Late submissions are not guaranteed to make it into the paper.

Year in Review 2023

Big Halloween Parade says goodbye WILL LOHRE Country Media, Inc. Originally published in The Chronicle Vol. 141, Oct. 18, 2023

It appears that the 2023 Big Halloween Parade could be the last.

Organizers said on Facebook that they were saddened to announce that due to a lack of traffic control and support, they can no longer “make the event safe enough” for the community to continue.

Due to the event’s growth in recent years, keeping the parade safe has become too difficult for the organizers and parade board members Heather Epperly, Jenn Buehler, and Betsy Stephens to handle.

The Chronicle spoke with board members Epperly and Buehler about why the event is coming to an end.

“We love this parade. We started changing it to a night parade in 2018; we love it.

We loved being a part of it, we loved helping the community come together. It’s not a decision that we make lightly,” Buehler said. “We have struggled the last two years to try and make this event safe for our community.

With the advertising promoted by others, the event has more than doubled in attendance with the larger crowds, a need for certified traffic control and authority figures has grown exponentially.”

Buehler said that with the

large crowd, the last two years have seen spectators encroach on the parade route. Buehler said that even with the addition of private security this year, parade-goers have cut in front of oncoming traffic, something Buehler described as pretty terrifying.

Regarding volunteers, Epperly and Buehler said they thought they had enough for this year’s event, but challenges with traffic control began to crop up. One example was the reliance on the St. Helens Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) to help control the roadways for the parade.

“CERT has always been a huge help for us in the past, but unfortunately, this year, CERT was overwhelmed with parking, and we were unaware that they weren’t able to get out of that parking situation to do our street closures,” Epperly said. “So we had high-traffic spectator areas that were left completely unattended with no CERT control or anything there. Our community volunteers stepped up to help as best they could, but they have no real power as far as spectators are concerned.”

One important note is that while safety was a concern, no injuries or incidents were reported during the parade.

Buehler emphasized that the lack of authority figures, such as law enforcement officers, made it difficult to manage the large crowds.

Courtesy photos from Jenni Bandov

Barriers to the parade Buehler, Stevens, and Epperly have voluntarily organized the parade since 2018. Each year, the parade was presented by Epperly’s insurance agency, American Family Insurance.

“Our three board members are the original founders of the Big Halloween Parade, and we are still the driving people behind the parade,” Epperly said. “We’ve reached out and

tried to get other people in the community to participate on our board, to be part of our committee, but... It looks good on Facebook; a lot of people say, ‘Oh yeah, I’ll be there, I’ll do it.” But when they actually have the meetings, nobody shows.”

Buehler said they held two meetings for volunteers this year and that about 200 people said they were interested in going to the meetings, but when the day of the meetings

arrived, “nobody showed.”

When asked whether anything could change to keep the parade going under their leadership, Epperly said that a lot would have to change for them to continue.

“Our biggest concern is safety for the spectators, the particpants, the community members. We would require more authoritative personnel.

For us to do that with a thirdparty vendor is just financially unfeasible,” Epperly said. “ We would have to have our local agencies be more involved in it and have more communication with our local agencies.”

Epperly also said that she feels the parade has outgrown the infrastructure of St. Helens.

Epperly said that infrastructure is lacking to address the parking and traffic caused by the influx of people.

Another component is the expense of the parade. Epperly said that she doesn’t think many people realize the parade is privately funded and the cost of the parade is “huge.” Even with sponsors, the financial weight is heavy.

“We go out, and we ask for sponsors every year. We got some great sponsors this year that really helped us out, but it’s a drop in the bucket compared to what it actually costs,” Epperly said. “There’s a lot of things that would have to come forward for us to consider moving forward with another parade.”

The funding for the parade

that isn’t sponsored is paid for

by Epperly and her agency and the “board members’ pockets,” and that doesn’t even include the amount of time it takes to put on a parade like this.

Going forward If another party were to take up the parade baton, Epperly said they would be open to discussion, but they haven’t crossed that bridge yet because their decision is still so recent.

Part of the reason they announced the cessation of the parade now is because, in past years, they began planning the next Big Halloween Parade as soon as the previous event ended.

When asked whether the cross-promotion of the parade in conjunction with Halloweentown was a burden for the parade organizers, Epperly wasn’t ready to say that.

“I don’t know that I would say it’s a burden, but I do believe that the city has made of the parade did grow it faster than what we would have wanted to see,” Epperly said.

Going forward, something Epperly and Buehler emphasized was that they love the community, and they hope that people appreciate the time and effort they put in to bring the event to the community over the past five years.

“It’s a lot of hard work. We were very proud of what the parade came to be, unfortunately, the safety aspect is more important,” Buehler said.

Stans Refrigeration celebrates 50 years WILL LOHRE Country Media, Inc. Originally published in The Chronicle Vol. 141, Nov. 8, 2023

A lot has changed in St. Helens throughout the last 50 years, but one constant has been Stan’s Refrigeration & Air Conditioning, Inc., which just celebrated a half-century in business.

Stanley Rohloff has owned and operated Stan’s Refrigeration since 1973. He even built the building that houses the headquarters for the operation at 58481 Old Portland Road in about 1979. There are four employees at the business.

Something that he’s enjoyed over the years is the people and providing great service.

“I enjoy people. You know, treat them right. Then they keep coming back or tell their friends. We never advertised too much,” Rohloff said.

“I built this, got new stuff, hired more people. It just kind of grew. Treated people good and delivered things to

them. We have free delivery; we don’t charge. You gotta be friendly with them, treat them right.”

Rohloff started the business when he was 38 when he began, and in January, he will turn 89. Despite his age, Rohloff still comes in and works in the shop every day. Before owning his own business, Rohloff worked 18 years for Thermo King in Minnesota and specialized in refrigerator repair.

Rohloff’s sister lived in St. Helens, and he started his business when he moved to St. Helens.

“My sister and brother-inlaw were here, and they kind of spread the word a little bit.

I was busy from day one,” Rohloff said. “We kept growing and growing and hiring people.”

Rohloff said that in the 50 years he’s been in St. Helens, business has been steady. In the early days, Rohloff focused on refrigeration, but he was also capable of repairing appliances, which became an

Will Lohre / Country Media, Inc.

Stan Rohloff started Stan’s Refrigeration & Air Conditioning Inc. in 1973, more than 50 years ago.

important piece of the services he provided.

Of course, having been in St. Helens for half a century, Rohloff has seen the town change a lot over the years.

“50 years ago, the town was a lot different. It was just the core town,” Rohloff said.

“You got off the highway a

block, and there was nothing.”

Rohloff said all their work and products are guaranteed, and they want to make sure that if people buy from Stan’s, those products can be relied upon.

While Rohloff wants to ensure that they are offering the best products, one of the

challenges he’s had recently is the lack of a refrigerator repairman who can carry out house calls to do maintenance.

It has been difficult to find refrigerator repair people who are entering the local market, as most enter the commercial market to make more money, according to Rohloff.

In the meantime, Rohloff said they can still provide the maintenance people need if they are willing to bring their appliances to the shop.

Rohloff hopes that they will be able to get a new refrigerator repair person in soon to address these difficulties.

While Rohloff is almost 90, he has already made plans to pass the business on to long-time employee Steve Gibbs. Gibbs has worked at Stan’s Refrigeration for 27 years, and Gibbs has been “doing it all” in the day-today operations of the business. Rohloff said that Gibbs has been an excellent employee who was ready to make an extra effort for customers “day or night.”

With 50 years on the books and no end in sight, Rohloff said that though the refrigeration repair is their “only holdup,” they are committed to serving the community.

“We’re here for them, and we’re doing the best we can right now,” Rohloff said.

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Year in Review 2023

Scappoose woman killed, suspect in custody WILL LOHRE Country Media, Inc.

A woman was stabbed and killed in Scappoose Dec. 19, and the suspect related to the murder is in custody, according to the Columbia County Sheriff’s Office (CCSO).

The incident took place in the afternoon and led to schools in the area being put on lockdown protocols.

A manhunt resulted in the arrest of 40-year-old Derek Welter of Scappoose.

The victim has been identified as 34-year-old Rhiannon Amelia Meyer of Scappoose.

The crime was reported by the mother of Meyer, who said the stabbing took place at a residence on SW 4th in Scappoose.

Scappoose Police and the Columbia County Sheriff’s Department responded to the call and found Meyer

lying unresponsive on the front porch. The suspect was no longer on the scene.

Responding officers performed CPR on Meyer until medics arrived. The medics pronounced Meyer dead at the scene.

Officers gathered a description of the vehicle the suspect was driving when he fled the scene, and began a search of the surrounding areas. The vehicle was described as a “large dark colored 2005 Chevy Silverado Pickup. The truck may have wooden sideboards and a dirt bike in the back.”

Investigators then began searching areas that Welter frequented, according to CCSO. “Shortly after 6 p.m., an Oregon State Trooper (OSP) located a vehicle driving in the area of Gunners Lake Main-line that matched the suspect vehicle. The OSP Trooper

waited for additional units to arrive and they attempted to stop the vehicle as it was driving towards them.

The suspect vehicle then quickly began reversing away from investigators attempting to flee, but the vehicle backed into the end of the road and could not go any further,” a CCSO news release said.

Welter is “known to carry firearms,” the sheriff’s office said, so OSP SWAT was activated, and other deputies and officers began setting up a perimeter around the vehicle.

Just after 9 p.m., OSP SWAT arrived on the scene and began pushing toward the suspect vehicle. At around 11:30 p.m., the OSP SWAT made contact with the vehicle and arrested the occupant at gunpoint.

“The driver was identified as the suspect in the murder, Derek Welter.

Courtesy photo

A photo taken by a resident of the area of SW 4th Street where the incident occurred.

Welter was taken into custody at 11:35 p.m. without further incident. Welter was transported and lodged in the Columbia County Jail on the charges of Murder II, Assault I and Unlawful Use of a Weapon. This investigation is ongoing,” the CCSO said.

The CCSO thanked the Scappoose Police Department, Oregon State Police, St. Helens Police Department, Washington County Sheriff’s Office, and the Scappoose Fire Department for their assistance in responding to the incident.

“Through the collabo-

Derek Welter.

Courtesy photo

ration and dedication of multiple agencies, we were able to keep the community safe and bring a peaceful resolution to this situation,” Columbia County Sheriff Brian Pixley said. “Our thoughts and prayers go out to the family and friends of Rhiannon Meyer.”

$2.1M in illegally grown marijuana seized JEREMY C. RUARK Country Media, Inc. Originally published in The Chronicle Vol. 141, March 10, 2023

Columbia County Sheriff’s deputies have confiscated 6,611 marijuana plants and 133.5 pounds of processed marijuana with a street value of approximately $2,181,011, in the agency’s latest enforcement.

Search and seizure In a release, the CCSO said the operation was conducted on March 1, with deputies serving search warrants for illegal marijuana grows in Clatskanie, Deer Island and Scappoose.

During the service of these search warrants, CCSO deputies also recovered over $69,000 in cash.

Specific details about the addresses of the searches and of the suspects have yet to be released following the enforcement operation.

Columbia County Sheriff Brian Pixley told The Chief that all suspects were referred to the Columbia County District Attorney’s

Office for charges.

Specific details were also not immediately available about what led to the search and seizure operations.

“These are the first of many search warrants that our Street Crimes team will serve over the next few years,” Pixley said. “We appreciate the participation of our partner agencies, including the Scappoose Police Department, Yamhill County Sheriff’s Office, the Oregon State Police, and the Federal Bureau of Investigation.”

The Illegal Marijuana Market Grant, awarded to CCSO in 2022, funded this latest investigation.

Background In July 2022, The Chief reported that the CCSO was seeking new manpower to establish an illegal marijuana enforcement team.

In that published story, Pixley told The Chief his agency was seeking three enforcement deputies and three corrections deputies.

“We recently received a $940,000 grant from the Criminal Justice Commis-

Courtesy from the CCSO

Courtesy from the CCSO

A total of over $69,000 was confiscated during the enforcement operation.

The CCSO released this photo of one of the grow rooms found during the search operation.

sion (CJC) to put together an illegal marijuana enforcement team,” Pixley said. “So, we are hiring to back fill spaces for this team and also for an open position.”

“The first is the human trafficking component,” he said. “Often times these illegal grows are tied to organized crime from either a Mexican or Chinese cartel.

As such, they often will use “indentured servants” to work these grows to pay off some form of debt owed to the cartel. In my opinion, this is the biggest reason for our team.”

Pixley said the location of the illegal marijuana

grows is his second concern.

“The fact they grow in rural areas across Oregon, then ship the marijuana to the East Coast where they can sell the marijuana on the streets,” he said.

In 2021, the CCSO worked with the United States Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) and Oregon State Police (OSP) wrapping up a year-long investigation culminated in

26 search warrants served across the state of Oregon and one in Texas over a two-day period.

As a result of the search warrants, Pixley said the following was recovered statewide:

very large working fire.”

As firefighters arrived at the scene, they found the residence 75% involved. As the firefighters began the fire attack, they were alerted that victims were still in a back bedroom.

“There was a family that lived in the house, and then the grandparents lived in a trailer that was also on site. They’re the ones that initially called 911,” Greenup said. “I think the grandfather was out trying to gain access to the structure, to try to get the family members out, when the first arriving engine pulled up.”

Unable to enter the structure through normal entry points, firefighters broke a

window in the bedroom and removed two people and a pet. While they were able to get two of the victims out of the house, one could not be retrieved from the building.

Life-saving measures for the two victims were attempted by medics from Columbia River Fire & Rescue (CRFR) and American Medical Response (AMR) but to no avail.

The family dog and three victims all perished, but the identities of the victims have not been released at this time.

The cause of the fire is still under investigation, with investigators paying visits to the site through the early part of the week. Investigators are yet to determine the area of the

house where the fire started.

The fire is under investigation by members from the Columbia County Fire Investigation Team, Oregon State Police, and Oregon State Fire Marshal’s office.

Responding agencies included CRFR responded with a Battalion Chief, medic, and engine. Portland Fire & Rescue responded with a Battalion Chief, engine, and water tender. Oregon Department of Forestry responded with a Chief Officer and engine.

AMR, Columbia 911 Communications District (CCOM), Columbia County Sheriff’s Office, and Multnomah County Sheriff’s Office aided in the response.

Public safety concerns Pixley said this specialized enforcement team has been needed for quite some time and the concern is twofold.

• 32,999 total marijuana plants • 1504 lbs. of bulk marijuana • 23 firearms • $353,000 in cash

Three dead in Scappoose house fire WILL LOHRE Country Media, Inc. Originally published in The Chronicle Vol. 141, Aug. 8, 2023

Three people have died in a house fire in the 26000 block of NW St. Helens Road in Scappoose, according to Scappoose Fire.

At approximately 3:30 a.m. Aug., 6, Scappoose Fire responded to a residential fire in an unincorporated part of Scappoose.

Cade Greenup is a Division Chief with Scappoose Fire, and was the Incident Commander at the scene of the fire.

“For a residential fire, our

Courtesy photo from Scappoose Fire

Investigators on site were still searching for the cause of the deadly fire at press time.

initial response, as usual, out of the first main station is an engine and a water tender, and then it follows up as other

folks come into the station with more units,” Greenup said. “Obviously, when they got to the scene, they found a

Cascades Tissue to close St. Helens plant WILL LOHRE Country Media, Inc. Originally published in The Chronicle Vol. 141, Aug. 16, 2023

Cascade Tissue Group has announced it will fully shut down operations in St. Helens, a development that comes in the wake of the closure of its plant in Scappoose.

On Aug. 10, Cascades announced the full closure of its St. Helens plant, which will affect 75 employees, according to a release on the Cascades website. The end of operations will be effective at the beginning of October.

“Today’s announcement further simplifies the company’s operational platform by concentrating the majority of its tissue product operating activities at core, geographically well-positioned sites that offer opportunities for future development,” the release said.

Cascades initially announced a partial closure of its St. Helens operations in April in conjunction with its announcement that the Scappoose plant would be closing starting in July.

While the company had hoped to maintain operating one of its two machines at the St. Helens location, market conditions and a significant decline in demand in this region for brown recycled products specifically manufactured at the facility compromised the long-term financial viability of the plant, according to Cascades’ Vice President and Communications Representative Hugo D’Amours.

The company also dealt with fluctuating production costs in the lead-up to the announcement.

“In the last weeks, we were also forced to take some downtime to compensate for the lack of orders. Our

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hope of keeping the facility profitable has unfortunately vanished,” D’Amours said.

“On top of this, in regard to Scappoose and despite our efforts, we have not found an interested buyer that could have converted the production of St. Helens. Considering our production is not integrated with the rest of Cascades and considering we don’t believe we can make this facility profitable anymore, we took the decision to close it.”

The annual capacity of the machine in St. Helens is 50,000 short tons of brown 100% recycled tissue paper.

These tons are not integrated into the Cascades network, so the closure will have no impact on the company’s other operations, according to the release.

For those who are impacted by the closure, D’Amours said Cascades would be working with the 75 employees and

have started to work with the Union to organize the closure and support employees.

Transitioning

Paul Vogel of the Columbia Economic Team (CET) said that the announcement of the St. Helens machine closure was “unwelcome,” but not entirely surprising.

“We’ve progressively talked with their executive leadership, and this move reflects the marketplace and its impact on the ability to find a new operator for the Scappoose plant they closed in July, as well as declining demand for their product from the St. Helens facility,” Vogel said. “The economics aren’t there, apparently, so Cascades will now turn to Option B, which is selling its property in Scappoose and negotiating a departure from its lease with the City of St. Helens.”

The Quebec-based company spent $64 million on the 284,000-square-foot Scappoose facility, which is located on a former ranch on West Lane. The plant was completed in 2017.

While Vogel hoped Cascades would find a new buyer who could take over the plant with a smooth transition and continued operations, the facility will ultimately need to be repurposed under a new owner. Finding a new operator for the plant was a point of uncertainty, and Vogel said that the recent full closure in St. Helens gives a roadmap of what is to come.

“There will be a high quality, essentially “new” manufacturing building and land available in Scappoose, for which there already is demand. And the city of St. Helens will have new options open for how it wants to re-work or redevelop its industrial park,” Vogel said.

“None of us like to see the impact to family wage jobs or the families themselves.

And one never likes to see a company close its operations.

Obviously, Cascades feels this hit on its company, as well.”

Vogel said that Cascades is working with the CET’s workforce partners to assist former Scappoose employees and those already impacted in St. Helens by reductions.

“Columbia Economic Team will continue to work with Cascades and its representatives in marketing their assets, our workforce partners to assist displaced employees – and then also to develop training and other programs for prospective new buyers and investors, and with our state and local partners to recruit new or expansion investment to bring quality, family wage jobs into our communities to fill this gap,” Vogel said.

Wednesday, December 27, 2023

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Year in Review 2023

Whoville coming to Scappoose WILL LOHRE Country Media, Inc. Originally published in The Chronicle Vol. 141, Nov. 29, 2023

To spark the holiday spirit, the Scappoose Historical Society has transformed the historic Watts House into a scene straight out of Dr. Suess’ How the Grinch Stole Christmas.

Starting with a grand opening on Dec. 2, the Scappoose Historical Society will offer tours of the Watts House, which has been fully decked out in the spirit of Whoville. People can tour the home from 6 p.m. - 9 p.m. Coffee, hot chocolate, and goodies are available for purchase.

The Watts House is off Highway 30 in Scappoose at 52432 SE First Street.

Whoville in Scappoose Each room of the 1900sera home is filled with Grinch and Whoville-themed decorations, with much of the work done by volunteers and Scappoose Historical Society President Janet Williams. Williams said that the inspiration for the mashup between the Watts House and Whoville is an effort to bring more families to the house.

“Every year, the Watts house is decorated beautifully for Christmas. They have tours, and the tours have been attended, but I would say not heavily attended,” Williams said.

“Wanda Bauer and myself cooked up this idea to bring

in more kids and families.

Because kids come to it a couple years, see it once, and they’re bored. So we wanted to make it fun and free for everybody.”

One of the reasons it felt like a good fit was that the book “How the Grinch Stole Christmas” was written in 1957, and that fit with the timeframe when the Watts family lived in the house.

Williams also hopes a trip to the Watts House will spark children’s interest in history.

According to Williams, the event is made possible through sponsors and a $5,000 grant from the PUD. Williams has worked with local craftspeople and artists to bring the spirit of Whoville to the Watts House. One such contribution is several portraits of Whos that adorn the wall, which a local artist has painted.

Converting the house has been a labor of love.

Williams said she and Bauer have been working on the project for a year. Between October and November, Williams said she couldn’t even count the hours she’s put in.

Williams wants the event to bring people to the Watts House and give the community a sense of togetherness around the historical landmark.

“There’s people who have been born in this town that have never been in this house. We’ve started to try and have functions and try to get people to come in,” Williams said. “Because it’s meant, just like it was when it was built in 1902, it’s like

a community center. [It’s] like a hub; do fun things here for families and people.”

Holiday Lights and Sights contest The grand opening also coincides with the kick-off of the Scappoose Holiday Lights and Sights decorating contest. The Lights and Sights contest is something that Williams and the Historical Society started last year to try to engage the community in the holiday spirit.

Participation in the competition has grown since last year. Williams said that after having 12 participants last year, 27 houses signed up around Scappoose will be competing to be the most festively decorated home.

The contest is free to enter, and votes on the best decorations will be accepted until Dec. 31.

“The response that we got from people last year was overwhelmingly good. They [would say], ‘I loved driving around with my family and voting as a family; it was so much fun,’” Williams said.

“I just thought it was really a good community project.”

Cash prizes will be awarded to the houses receiving the most votes. This year’s prizes are $500 for 1st prize, $400 for second, $300 for third, $200 for fourth, $100 for fifth, and $50 for honorable mention.

Grand opening and more As part of the ongoing event, tours of the converted Whoville House will be of-

Will Lohre / Country Media, Inc.

Janet Williams, with the Grinch, in one of the Whoville-afied bedrooms of the Watts House.

fered throughout December.

At the grand opening Dec. 2, the ShoeString Community players will be performing as Whoville citizens to bring the house to life.

Tours will be available on weekends 5 p.m. - 8 p.m. and Wednesdays 3 p.m. - 7 p.m. There will also be two special events that Williams is excited about.

On Dec. 9, from 5 p.m.

- 8 p.m., the Grinch will be making an appearance at the Watts House. Kids will have a chance to meet and take photos with the Grinch.

The other special event is a Whoville costume contest on Dec. 16 from 5 p.m.

There’s no need to sign up; participants are encouraged to come down in costume, tour the house, and see who’s the best Who.

“Show up in your Whoville hair and costume, and you’ll get a number and a photo release form,” Williams said. “We’ll have them come through the house, we’ll take a picture, and then we’ll vote and have prizes and gift certificates for them.”

Though the event is free, there will be an opportunity to donate at the end of the tour. Proceeds will go directly to the Scappoose Historical Society. These funds will be used to help pay for the Historical Society’s projects, like the development of a newly reimagined museum in the Watts House basement.

Proceeds will also be used to address some of the projects that need to be done at the house.

There will also be two

barrels to collect donations for the food bank if people want to make donations of canned or nonperishable foods.

Williams said that if all goes well this year, they hope to make the Whoville Watts House takeover an annual event. Throughout the process, Williams said that the community has rallied around the event. She expressed gratitude to the close-knit feel of the community for helping bring her idea to life.

“Even though our community has grown so much, it still has that small-town feel. So many people, I have asked for things, and they have stepped up,” Williams said. “There’s been so many people I can’t even name them all.”

2023 Readers’ Choice Awards PRESENTED BY

The Chronicle &

The Chief

Best of Columbia County You’ve voted! Here are Columbia County’s favorite local businesses and services

Restaurant

1st: Plymouth Pub 2nd: Cornerstone Café 3rd: Chef Courts

Breakfast

1st: Kozy Korner 2nd: Cornerstone Café 3rd: Warren Country Inn

Lunch

1st: Plymouth Pub 2nd: Bertucci’s 3rd: Chef Courts

Dinner

1st: Plymouth Pub 2nd: Chef Courts 3rd: Ixtapa

Food Cart

1st: Kimbo spice 28 2nd: Chef Courts 3rd: Patriot Burger

Bar/Tavern

1st: Pastime Tavern 2nd: Johnny’s Bar & Grill 3rd: Pour House

Best Salon

1st: Scandalous Hair Design 2nd: Shear Perfection 3rd: Rock-It Salon

Corner Groceries & Sundries 1st: Sherlock’s Grocery 2nd: Nelsons’ Neighborhood Market and Deli 3rd: Red Apple Market

Lawn & Landscaping

1st: Ramos’ Yard Maintenance 2nd: Alonzo Yard Maintenance 3rd: EZ Mow

Best Pet Grooming 1st: K9 Grooming 2nd: Pet Palace 3rd: PAWSitive Critter Care

Financial Planning

1st: Edward Jones Topher Mood 2nd: Sommers Financial Management 3rd: County Financial Sheryl Teuscher

Insurance Agency

1st: Heather Epperly Agency Inc American Family Insurance 2nd: Counrty Financial Sheryl Teuscher 3rd: State Farm

Auto Service / Mechanic Shop 1st: Eaton’s Tire & Auto Repair LLC 2nd: David’s automotive 3rd: Emmert Motors

Cannabis Dispensary

Coffee Shop / Cart

Veterinary Clinic

Educator

1st: Javalation 2nd: Dutch Bros 3rd: Fresh Start Espresso

1st: Gnome Grown 2nd: Sweet Relief 3rd: Today’s Herbal Choice 1st: Midway Veterinary Hospital 2nd: Columbia Veterinary Clinic 3rd: Valley Veterinary Clinic

Accounting Service

1st: Daniel R. Garrison, CPA 2nd: Liberty Bookkeeping & Tax 3rd: Windy Ridge Accounting & Tax Service

Barber Shop

1st: Danny’s Barber Shop 2nd: Sandy’s Barber Shop 3rd: Hwy 30 Barbers

Retail Shop

1st: Harrington’s Clothing 2nd: Richardson’s Furniture 3rd: 2Cs Vendor Mall

Nonprofit

(teachers name and school) 1st: Tiffany Kriek, Otto Petersen Elementary 2nd: Kari Stewart, McBride Elementary 3rd: Matt Lokken, St. Helens High School

Real Estate Office

1st: Top Notch Thrift Store 2nd: Amani Center 3rd: Columbia Pacific Food Bank

1st: Ark Real Estate 2nd: Keller Williams 3rd: Berkshire Hathaway

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www.thechronicleonline.com

DON’T DRINK AND DRIVE

Wednesday, December 27, 2023

Driving under the influence

Rethinking Drinking STAFF REPORT Country Media, Inc.

At a time when many people in Oregon are celebrating the holiday season with friends, coworkers, and loved ones, the Oregon Health Authority (OHA) is launching Rethink the Drink’s new winter advertising campaign to change the conversation about alcohol.

Campaign focus The campaign emphasizes the need for people to come together and support one another to be healthy and care for communities. That includes creating healthy environments that support people in their efforts to drink less alcohol.

The campaign reveals how common alcohol has become in community settings and asks people to consider ways they can best support their friends and loved ones – and their entire community – to be healthy.

Rethink the Drink, in-

formed by significant community and partner engagement, aims to decrease alcohol consumption and related harms in Oregon.

Elements of this winter campaign include a website; statewide TV, radio, digital and print advertisements; and Facebook and Instagram pages. Oregon is the only state in the country to initiate a public health campaign of this scale to reach adults 21 and older.

By the numbers While younger people in Oregon are drinking less, binge drinking and heavy drinking among adults are on the rise, and are responsible for an estimated 1 in 5 deaths among those ages 20-49.

Overall, excessive alcohol use is the third leading cause of preventable death and disease in Oregon.

“During December and the holiday season, many people and communities come together at celebrations or events where alco-

hol may be present,” OHA Deputy State Health Officer and Epidemiologist Tom Jeanne said. “We’re trying to start a new conversation to help dial down the pressure around alcohol and help create more supportive community spaces for everyone.”

According to Jeanne, the new OHA campaign and messaging explore how alcohol has crept into so many settings of our daily lives, whether that’s at the hair salon, a child’s birthday party, or a baby shower.

“Even in moments when people are trying to improve their health, such as a 5k run or during a hike in the woods, many of us find ourselves drinking more,” Jeanne said. “This campaign is about caring for one another and for our communities so that we can all be healthy and feel supported.”

What the OHA data shows Based on evaluation data from RMC Research for its first campaign in summer 2022, Rethink the Drink achieved its goals and exceeded expectations for the campaign. People in Oregon who saw the campaign: • Had more conversations about their own drinking, friends’ and families’ drinking, and what excessive drinking is.

• Thought more about their drinking habits.

• Were more likely to plan on cutting back their drinking than those who did not see the campaign.

People living in Oregon may be drinking excessively without realizing it The share of Oregon adults who drink excessively is larger than most people realize – more than 1 in 5, according to the OHA. Most people in this group are not affected by alcoholism or an alcohol use disorder. However, by drinking excessively, people increase their odds of developing an alcohol use disorder later in life.

OHA uses the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) definition of excessive alcohol use, which includes both heavy drinking and binge drinking: • Heavy drinking, which can lead to chronic diseases and other problems over time, is eight or more drinks per week for women or 15 or more drinks per week for men.

• Binge drinking is consuming four or more drinks on one occasion for women or five or more drinks on one occasion for men.

For more information about differences among genders for what’s considered excessive drinking, visit https://www.rethinkthedrink. com/what-is-excessivedrinking.

The unjust harms of excessive drinking Certain populations experience more unjust stressors and disadvantages due to racism, discrimination, and historical disinvestment in these communities, which has led to higher rates of alcohol-related harms, the OHA states. These include Black and Indigenous communities, as well as people with lower incomes and less education.

The OHA also finds

excessive drinking causes health harms that include increased risks for cancer, liver failure, heart disease and depression. Beyond the health harms to the individual, excessive drinking affects the entire community, costing Oregon $4.8 billion per year from lost earnings for workers and revenue for businesses, health care expenses, criminal justice costs and car crashes.

“We all have a role to play in building healthy communities and addressing alcohol and substance use in our state,” Oregon’s Alcohol and Drug Policy Commission (OADP) Director Annaliese Dolph said.

The OADP Strategic Plan calls for raising awareness of harm associated with alcohol misuse, especially using prevention techniques.

“This is exactly what the Rethink the Drink campaign helps accomplish,” Dolph said. “This is an example of state agencies working together with the Commission to carry out the Commission’s task of increasing the efficiency and effectiveness of substance use services.”

According to Dolph, preventing misuse across the lifespan includes having honest conversations to help people to think about the alcohol they are consuming, and decrease family and community norms permissive of misuse.

“This can increase the perception of harm from misuse and address the health harms faced by historically marginalized communities,” Dolph said.

Rethink the Drink is not telling people to stop drinking, Jeanne said.

“The campaign is asking people to pause for a moment, learn about the harms caused by excessive drinking, and think about the way alcohol is prevalent

in their lives and communities<” Jeanne said. “While the alcohol industry provides thousands of jobs for people in Oregon, and producers in our state make some of the world’s finest beers, wines and spirits, excessive drinking carries heavy costs for all Oregonians, whether they drink or not.”

If you or someone you care about is suffering from alcohol dependence or an alcohol use disorder, free confidential resources and support are available online or by calling or 1-800-923435.

About Rethink the Drink Rethink the Drink is an initiative of OHA’s Public Health Division with a goal to build healthier communities by decreasing excessive drinking and the harm it causes to individuals, families and communities.

Recognizing the value of Oregon’s beer, wine and alcohol producers and businesses to the state’s economy, culture and identity, Rethink the Drink is not asking people not to drink.

The campaign aims to raise awareness of the effects of excessive alcohol use. While people of all education and income levels drink excessively, certain populations experience higher rates of alcohol-related diseases. These include Black and Indigenous communities, as well as people with lower incomes and less education.

Certain populations experience higher rates of alcohol-related disease due to discrimination and historical disinvestment in these communities that has contributed to fewer resources and support. Rethink the Drink is committed to OHA’s larger goal to end health inequities in our state by 2030.

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