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Wednesday, December 4, 2013

2/21/12

See our complete winter sports preview. Pages B1-B6

3:24 PM

TODAY’S WEATHER sunny Highs to 33 Page A15 Lows to 18

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The Chronicle

$1.00 Vol. 131, No. 49 22 Pages

www.thechronicleonline.com

Today’s the day for Cover Oregon applications

like Christmas!

BY SHARI PHIEL news@thechronicleonline.com

For those wanting insurance through the Affordable Care Act effective Jan. 1, 2014, time is quickly running out. The deadline to get an application mailed, faxed or submitted online to Cover Oregon, the health care exchange for the state, is Wednesday, Dec 4. Applications submitted after that date won’t be effective until Feb. 1, 2014 or later. For local agencies like Insurance Services Northwest, a Hagan Hamilton company, the looming deadline has meant a recent increase in the workload. “Our office will have extended hours available by appointment to assist our community in getting the applications submitted by next Wednesday,” said Rachel Brunkhorst, one of several agents at ISNW assisting individuals and businesses with their Cover Oregon applications. “We have a lot of appointments booked for Wednesday,” she added, noting it takes between 30 minutes to an hour for each application. Brunkhorst says that while the push is on to get individual applications in, the pressure on businesses and business owners providing insurance coverage to their employees has been reduced. “The president made a change to the [Affordable Care] Act so that insurance plans that were going away don’t have to expire in 2014,” said Brunkhorst. Previously, insurance carriers were required to eliminate their existing coverage plans and adopt the bronze, silver and gold plans outlined in the act. “Now those previous insurance plans will continue through 2014,” Brunkhorst noted. If you’re waiting until the last minute to complete your application, you may want to rethink that idea. Brunkhorst said she and some of her fellow agents noticed the Cover See COVER, Page A4

INSIDE Classified Ads . . . . . . . A9 Legal Notices . . . . . A9-11 Obituaries . . . . . . . . . . . A6 Opinions . . . . . . . . . . . . A5 Out & About . . . . . . . . A7 Records . . . . . . . . . . . . . A2 Sports . . . . . . . . . . A14-15 TV Guide . . . . . . . . . . . A8 Weather . . . . . . . . . . . A15

SHARI PHIEL / The Chronicle

Santa Claus (Al Belanger) stops to greet children waiting to see him at Monday night’s tree lighting ceremony in Heritage Park in Scappoose. Tours of the Grants Watts Pioneer Museum begin Dec. 6. For more information, see page A7.

Denver investment firm seeks control of Ambre Energy BY SHARI PHIEL news@thechronicleonline.com

Ambre Energy investors will vote this week on proposals that could give controlling interest of the company – and its two proposed coal export terminals in the Pacific Northwest – to Denver-based private equity firm Resource Capital Funds. The vote will take place on Wednesday, Dec. 4. “It’s something that’s been on their financials for a while,” said Ambre spokesperson Liz Fuller, of Gard Communications. Ambre Energy’s pro-

posed Morrow Pacific Project would bring coal via rail to Port Morrow in Boardman. There the coal would be offload to barges and sent up the Columbia River to Port Westward in Clatskanie. There the coal would be transferred to larger, ocean-going vessels bound for Asian markets. The coal company has said the project is expected to create 50-80 full-time family wage jobs, hundreds of construction jobs and require and investment of $150 million that would bring more than $800,000 in tax revenues to the county. Opponents to the project believe the risks associated

with bringing coal into the county far outweigh the projected benefits. According to a statement issued by Ambre, the first of the proposals would allow Resource Capital Funds to increase its stake in the company from 19.9 percent to 26.5 percent, subject to approval by the company’s shareholders at their annual general meeting on Dec. 4. “Additionally, those shareholders will be asked to allow RCF in the future to convert its loan to further equity in Ambre, as an alternative to repayment of the loan, up to a maximum total stake of 55 percent,” said the statement.

The precise stake that RCF would attain by converting its loan would depend on the timing of the conversion and what further shares had been issued to other investors. Fuller said Ambre doesn’t expect the vote to have any impact on Port Westward. “It’s not, from our perspective, going to have any impact on any aspect of the Morrow Pacific project. In fact, it signifies a deepening investment by RCF, this major stakeholder of Ambre’s,” said Fuller. “But really, there will be no changes. In its statement, Ambre See AMBRE, Page A4

Making time for play is hard work BY SHARI PHIEL news@thechronicleonline.com

ST HELENS — McBride Elementary School needs a new playground. But like other schools in the district, there just isn’t any money in the budget for the $150,000 needed to replace the aging structure. But the parents students at McBride aren’t letting that get in their way. “The school and the parent teacher organization have been talking about, and have known about this playground for years being a concern,” said parent Tim Mosterdyke. “They started getting really serious about pursuing it last year.” Mosterdyke presentED plans for a new playground, one that even includes a zip line, to the St. Helens School Board last September. The group is hoping to pay for the new play structure through grants and fundraising efforts. The proposed playground includes costs to remove the existing structure, just over $90,000

SHARI PHIEL / The Chronicle

The playground structures at McBridge Elementary are in desperate need of replacement. Parents, teachers and staff are working hard to make it happen.

for the purchase of the new structure, which is designed for 5-9 year olds, $1,000 for disposal of the existing structure, $18,600 for a new play structure designed for 9-12 year olds and $33,600 for ADA-compliant rubber mulch for both structures. The new, state-of-the-art

facility is about more than just having fun. As was mentioned at the school board meeting, recent studies have shown that recess can actually help make children smarter. The studies show that when recess is delayed, children pay less and less attention. In fact, a

major study in “Pediatrics” found that children with more than 15 minutes of recess a day were far better behaved in class than children who had shorter recess breaks or none at all. The McBride PTO will See MCBRIDE, Page A4

Scappoose robbery suspect nabbed while committing another bank job

SCAPPOOSE — A suspect in the recent Scappoose bank robbery is now in custody after being arrested following a similar robbery in Wood Village. Travis David Johnson, 20, is be- Travis D. Johnson ing held at the Multnomah County Jail without bail after being charged with the both robberies. Another man, Ryan Joseph Beisley, 29, was also charged with robbery in connecRyan J. Beisley tion with the Wood Village case. At just before 3 p.m. on Nov. 22, officers from the Scappoose Police Department responded to a report of a robbery at the Chase Bank inside Fred Meyer grocery store at 51501 Columbia River Highway. The only description given at the time was that the robber was a white male and was last seen fleeing on foot. Official said the robber made off with about $1,700. Police arrived on scene within two minutes of the alarm activation and began searching the area for the suspect. Officers from the nearby St. Helens Police Department, including a K-9 officer, and deputies from the Columbia County Sheriff’s Office were called in to help, as was another K-9 unit from the Tigard Police department. Three hours later, police received a call regarding an See SUSPECT, Page A4

For Record www.thechronicleonline.com

Wednesday, December 4, 2013

the

Police Reports St. Helens Police Department Nov. 5 – Heather Robinson, 25, was arrested for theft and possession of methamphetamine following a shoplift incident at Wal-Mart. Nov. 20 – A male juvenile was referred to the juvenile department for unlawful possession of marijuana within 100 feet of a school. Nov. 20 – A male juvenile was referred to the juvenile department for theft following a shoplift incident at Safeway. Nov. 22 – Brenda Flori crashed her vehicle into the Ace Hardware building. Nov. 22 – A female adult

threatened suicide to get a ride to the hospital. Nov. 23 – A female juvenile ran away from home and made suicide threats to police. Nov. 23 – Scot E. Higgins, 52, was arrested for driving under the influence of alcohol and cited for possession of less than an ounce of marijuana. Nov. 24 – A child welfare check was conducted following a report of possible abuse. Nov. 25 – Police responded to a motor vehicle accident on Highway 30 near Gable Road. Nov. 25 – Police responded to a verbal domestic dispute on Shore Drive.

Fire Reports

Nov. 25 – Michael Baldino, 66, was arrested on a St. Helens Municipal Court order for sex abuse and harassment. Nov. 26 – Joseph Lewis Welsh, 34, was arrested for two counts of contempt of court after a violation of a release agreement. Nov. 26 – Nicholas R. Smith, 33, was cited for driving while suspended. His vehicle was impounded. Nov. 26 – Ryan D. Neveu, 26, was arrested on an outstanding St. Helens Municipal Court warrant. Nov. 27 – A 10-year-old female juvenile made a sex abuse complaint that a 7-yearold male sexually abused her.

Columbia County Sheriff’s Office

Columbia River Fire & Rescue

Nov. 22 – CCSO conducted a marine response on the Columbia River. Nov. 22 – Threats were reported in the 72000 block of Neely Street. Nov. 22 – A theft was reported in the 32000 block of Scappoose Vernonia Highway. Nov. 22 – Harassment was reported in the 32000 block of Boomer Loop. Nov. 22 – CCSO assisted the Scappoose Police Department with a bank robbery in See POLICE, Page A3

Nov. 25 – Units assisted an invalid in the 700 block of McBride Street. Nov. 25 – Units were dispatched to the 700 block of West Street. Nov. 27 – Personnel assisted an invalid in the 200 block of N. 17th Street. Nov. 27 – CRF&R assisted with a police matter on Columbia Blvd. and N. 16th Street. Nov. 28 – Units were dispatched to the 200 block of St. Helens Street. The call was cancelled while they were en route. Nov. 28 – Personnel

responded to an unauthorized burn in the 58000 block of Louie Court. Nov. 29 – Units responded to a fire in a flue in the 500 block of S. 15th Street. that resulted from a wood stove fire. Nov. 30 – Personnel were dispatched to the 300 block of S. Fourth Street. The call was cancelled while they were en route. Dec. 1 – Units assisted with a police matter in the 75000 block of Fernhill Road. Dec. 1 – Personnel responded to a non-injury vehicle accident on N. Vernonia Road and MacArthur Street. See FIRE, Page A3

Governor Kitzhaber lends support to drive sober month

Oregon Gov. John Kitzhaber proclaimed December as “3D Month” in recognition of Drinking and Drugged Driving Awareness Month, a statewide effort aimed at reducing impaired driving during the holidays and into the new year. While most drivers know that even one drink before getting behind the wheel can affect performance, many are unaware that prescription drugs and over-the-counter medicines can also impair driving. “Drunk driving has traditionally received most of the attention but we’re seeing more and more instances of impaired driving caused by illegal drugs as well as prescription and over the counter medications,” said Impaired Driving Program Manager Dan Estes with the Oregon Department of Transportation. “Just because something is prescribed by a doctor or purchased legally like cold medicine doesn’t mean that it can’t cause a

serious impairment or won’t earn someone a DUI arrest if they choose to drive impaired. It’s not about the substance; it’s really about the impairment.” Key messages, running both statewide and around the country, encourage motorists to “Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over.” Another one is “Buzzed driving is drunk driving,” which draws attention to the fact that you don’t have to be legally drunk – or even drinking alcohol – to be impaired. Estes encourages drivers to talk with their doctors or pharmacists about medicines to find out if they can cause drowsiness or other impairments. To make a real impact on safety this holiday season, Estes encourages personal responsibility. “When it comes right down to it, the choice to

drive impaired is up to the individual,” he said. “When a person makes the right choice in the very beginning, before they ever get behind the wheel, that’s the most effective way to prevent impaired driving, before it ever starts.” Throughout December, extra law enforcement will be working around the clock

to encourage safe driving practices. ODOT’s partners in the effort include Oregon State Police, Oregon State Sheriff’s Association, and Oregon Association Chiefs of Police, and other safety advocates. In 2012 in Oregon, 37 percent of crashes in which someone died involved an impaired driver. Over the

past decade in the state, more than 2,000 individuals were killed and over 10,000 people were injured by drinking and drugged drivers. The financial cost of those losses is more than $9 billion, but that’s minimal compared to the pain of losing a loved one. If you are planning to host or attend a holiday gettogether this season, here are a few safety tips: Have designated drivers. Plan to have sober drivers at your party who can help get folks home safely. Volunteer to be a sober driver at someone else’s party. Plan to stay overnight. Make pre-arrangements to stay overnight at your friend’s home or in a hotel room where you won’t have to drive if you have been drinking. Monitor car keys. Collect your guests’ car keys at the beginning of your event.

Then, talk with your guests before they leave about the best transportation options for them. Be ready with a cab fare fund. Having available cash to pay cab fare for your guests if they need it reduces the stress on you. If you can’t afford to pay for it yourself, ask your guests to pitch in a few bucks on your invitation. And keep phone numbers handy. Have plenty of soft drinks, juices and other nonalcoholic beverages available for those guests who choose not to drink. For tips on helping young people avoid dangerous situations involving drugs, drinking and driving, or to learn about other programs aimed at reducing impaired driving, go to nhtsa.gov/ Impaired. Everyone is encouraged to report impaired drivers to 9-1-1 or Oregon State Police at 1-800-24DRUNK (800243-7865).

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www.thechronicleonline.com

Wednesday, December 4, 2013

Police Reports From PAGE A2 the 51000 block of Columbia River Highway. (See page A1 for full story) Nov. 23 – Deputies responded to a traffic accident on Pittsburg and E. Kappler roads. Nov. 23 – A vehicle was reported stolen from the 70000 block of Columbia River Highway. Nov. 23 – Criminal mischief was reported at Canaan Road and Merrill Creek Road. Nov. 23 – Deputies responded to a traffic accident resulting in injury at Pittsburg and S. Canaan roads. Nov. 24 – A burglary was reported in the 32000 block of Bellcrest Road. Nov. 24 – Deputies conducted a marine call on the Columbia River. Nov. 24 – A person threatened suicide in the 33000 block of Shamrock Lane. Nov. 24 – Deputies responded to a 9-1-1 hang-up in the 31000 block of Brooks Road. Nov. 25 – Fraudulent activity was reported in the 79000 block of Charity Lane. Nov. 25 – Arson was reported in the 50000 block of Columbia River Highway. Nov. 25 – Deputies responded to a non-injury traffic accident at Clear Creek and

Timber roads. Nov. 25 – An adult was reported missing from the 34000 block of Bryan Road. Nov. 25 – It was reported an assault had just occurred in the 17000 block of Clatskanie District Road. Nov. 25 – A theft was reported from the 34000 block of Bachelor Flat Road. Nov. 25 – Criminal mischief was reported in the 23000 block of Beaver Falls Road. Nov. 26 – Deputies conducted a marine response in the 19000 block of Mallory Park Road. Nov. 26 – Theft was reported in the 57000 block of N. Morse Road. Nov. 26 – The violation of a restraining order was reported in the 50000 block of Columbia River Highway. Nov. 26 – CCSO assisted the Fargo, N.D., Police Department with a situation in the 78000 block of Point Adams Road. Nov. 26 – Deputies responded to a 9-1-1 hang-up in the 32000 block of Amyette Drive. Nov. 27 – Criminal mischief was reported in the 50000 block of Cowens Road. Nov. 27 – It was reported there was an intoxicated subject on Highway 30 near E. Division Road. Nov. 27 – A burglary was

Fire Reports reported in the 61000 block of Robinette Road. Nov. 27 – Deputies responded to a non-injury traffic accident at Quincy Mayger Road and Kallunki Road. Nov. 27 – Theft was reported in the 26000 block of Old Rainier Road. Nov. 27 – An assault was reported in the 17000 block of Clatskanie District Road. Nov. 28 – CCSO assisted ODOT with a situation on Highway 30 at E. Division Road. Nov. 28 – Deputies responded to a 9-1-1 hang-up in the 69000 block of Walker Road. Nov. 28 – Fraudulent activity was reported in the 65000 block of Meissner Road. Nov. 28 – It was reported there was an open door in the 75000 block of Larson Road. Nov. 28 – An assault was reported on Apiary Road. Scappoose Police Department Nov. 19 – Police responded to an audible alarm in the 33000 block of SE June Lane. Nov. 22 – Police transported a dog that was found in the 33000 block of SE Davona Drive to the Columbia County Animal Shelter. Nov. 22 – Police took a report of sex abuse in the 52000 block of SW Fourth Street.

Nov. 23 – A female juvenile is being referred to the Columbia County Juvenile Department for being a minor in possession of alcohol and a curfew violation. Nov. 23 – Following an investigation in the 33000 block of SW Sycamore Street, a male subject was transported to Good Samaritan Hospital on a mental hold. Nov. 24 – Police assisted DHS in the 51000 block of SW Rembrandt Drive on a welfare check. Nov. 24 – Police responded to an audible alarm at Goodwill. Nov. 28 – Police arrested Janaya Bjornstrom, 26, outside the Wigwam Tavern for disorderly conduct II. She was booked and lodged into the Columbia County Jail. Nov. 28 – Police responded to the 34000 block of E. Columbia Ave. on a report of domestic violence. Following an investigation, police arrested Wesley Cotton, 34, for assault IV, menacing, and harassment. He was booked and lodged into the Columbia County Jail. Nov. 29 – Police responded to an audible alarm at Fultano’s Pizza. Nov. 29 – Police impounded a vehicle that was abandoned in the 52000 block of SE Relish Lane.

From PAGE A2 Dec. 1 – Medical alarms activated in the 700 block of McBride Street and the 36000 block of Pittsburg Road. There were no medical problems at either location. Dec. 1 – CRF&R conducted a good-intent call at Columbia River Highway and Church Road. Dec. 2 – Units responded to a non-injury vehicle accident at Pittsburg and Robinette roads. Scappoose Fire District Nov. 25 – Dec. 2 – Scappoose Fire provided nine medical transports to hospitals and eight medical assessments without transport. Nov. 26 – Personnel responded to a false alarm on Brock Candle Drive. Nov. 27 – Personnel pro-

SHEDCO launches St. Helens channel

St. Helens has a new YouTube channel called “We are St. Helens.” The channel will have five series and will focus on all things St. Helens. The series are: · Business Insider – this series promotes local businesses through interviews and visual showcases of the product or services they offer. · Out and About – the goal of this series is to entice residents from the surrounding communities to come to St. Helens by providing information about upcoming (and previous) events. For about the upcoming · Discover Our Roots meeting or the TSP update, – this series will offer educacontact City Planner Brian tional videos promoting the Varricchione via email at briunique history of St. Helens. anvarricchione@ci.scappoose. · Hearts of the Comor.us or by calling 503-543munity – this series will 1 12-04-13 3x12 Extra Sectionals:Layout 1 12/2/13 12:30 PM Page 7184.

Scappoose hosts transportation system plan open house Dec. 4 SCAPPOOSE — The City of Scappoose is updating its Transportation System Plan (TSP) to help identify opportunities to improve the current transportation system and forecast what it may look like through 2035. The TSP is a tool for reflecting community values and balancing the needs of those walking, bicycling, and driving. Members of the public are invited to attend a community open house on the topic: This will be a drop-in event with no formal presentation.

The open house will provide an opportunity to discuss the project with the advisory committee members, city staff, and the consultant team; to review preliminary findings; and to provide input on needed transportation improvements. This will be the first of three open

houses anticipated for the TSP update process. Stop by any time during the open house to participate. The public may also visit the project web site at scappoosetsp.com to learn more about the process and to post comments online.

IF YOU GO:

WHEN: Wednesday, Dec. 4 TIME: 5:30 – 7:30 p.m. WHERE: Scappoose City Hall council chambers ADDRESS: 33568 E. Columbia Avenue

Warren Grange in Partnership with the Columbia County Fair Board, presents the

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represent all of the various non-profit and service organizations within the community. · Urban Unplugged – the aim of this series is to highlight all of the various outdoor amenities and activities available to visitors. Videos will be uploaded to YouTube twice a month. Videos will be uploaded during the second and fourth week of each month. Make sure to subscribe to the channel to get updates for when new videos are posted or “Like” SHEDCO’s Facebook page. The YouTube channel link is: http://www.youtube.com/ user/wearesthelens. Don't forget to watch the first introductory video, which was posted last week.

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vided public assistance on SE Westlake Drive. Nov. 27 – Units provided public assistance on NE Crown Court. Nov. 27 – Units provided public assistance on SE Fredrick Street. Nov. 28 – Personnel sent a medical unit to E. Columbia Ave. to assist law enforcement. Law enforcement cancelled the call prior to Scappoose Fire’s arrival. Nov. 29 – Personnel provided public assistance on SW Creekview Place. Nov. 30 – Units provided public assistance on SE Westlake Drive. Dec. 1 – Units provided public assistance on SE Westlake Drive for two separate instances. Dec. 1 – Personnel provided public assistance on KoKo Street.

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Wednesday, December 4, 2013

AMBRE: still confident despite woes COVER: community Energy said the “challenges associated with creating a new U.S. coal export business are routinely and continually addressed in the most constructive and effective way.” As a result, the company says it is well positioned to achieve its goal of becoming a significant U.S. coal export business as quickly as possible. But Ambre hasn’t been without its share of troubles

lately. The company already owes RCF $110 million and the private equity firm was the only outside investor the company has been able to attract this past year. The company’s ability to create a profitable export venture has been called into question. Ambre collected only $6.6 million in worldwide revenues over the past seven years while racking up more than $120 million in losses on its balance sheets. Ambre has also had its share of legal woes. The

company was sued by its own mining partner, Cloud Peak Energy, in a U.S. District Court when Ambre engaged in what Cloud Peak called “various self-dealing transactions” since acquiring a half-share in the Decker Mine in November 2011. Last December, Ambre agreed to purchase the remaining 50 percent interest of the mine to settle the litigation. In August, the two companies announced they had voluntarily dismissed the lawsuit even though “Ambre

Energy’s purchase of Cloud Peak Energy’s 50 percent interest in the Decker Mine in Montana is not expected to be completed for the foreseeable future.” Will the two proposal before Ambre’s investors make RCF a majority owner in the company if approved? Ambre’s response to that question was, “We value and appreciate their commitment to Ambre Energy with their continued financial support as well as their strategic input.”

MCBRIDE: holiday fundraisers just one step From PAGE A1

hold a Holiday Bazaar in the school cafeteria on Saturday, Dec. 7. There will be different vendors as well as face painting, holiday pictures and popcorn. “McBride families and staff have been working very hard to make our fundraisers as successful as possible. We just did a wreath fundraiser that brought in almost $500,” said PTO President Angie Oehlert. “Lindsay Luttrell, one if our third grade teach-

ers, spearheaded a rummage sale this past weekend that gave us another almost $600. The rummage sale was mostly donations from the McBride staff who also gave their time to help set up the night before. Principal Karla Thompson gave up her entire Saturday to help run the event. “ Those aren’t the only fundraisers the PTO group has lined up for the holidays. They have also partnered with the Columbia Theatre in Olde Towne. The theater will be selling tickets for Dec.

14 and Dec. 15 showing of “The Polar Express,” shown in 3-D, with showings at 4:30 p.m. Tickets are $6 each and will include the movie, cookie and hot chocolate, and a raffle ticket. The raffle will take place Sunday after the movie and ticket holders will not need to be present to win. The groups fundraising efforts have certainly attracted community partners as well. “Yo Cream Frozen Yogurt and Dutch Bros. Coffee have also generously agreed to help

us as well by letting us sell gift cards and giving us 20 percent of the sales to put towards our playground,” said Oehlert. “We have a huge amount of money that needs to be raised and with our amazing families and community we are planning on getting something by next summer.” For more information about any of the fundraisers, email Oehlert at antono@comcast. net or visit their website at sthelens.k12.or.us, and click on Parent Information.

SUSPECT: possible connection to Portland robberies From PAGE A1

abandoned Honda civic on Dutch Canyon near Raymond Creek Road. Officers responded to the location immediately and determined the Honda to be a stolen vehicle believed to be related to this case. A perimeter was set up and the search for the suspect resumed. Then, a half hour later, clothing matching the description of items worn by the suspect during the robbery was found by the St. Helens

K-9 unit about a quarter mile south of where the stolen car was found. Investigators with the Scappoose Police Department, Gresham Police Department, Clackamas County Sheriff’s Office, Portland Police Bureau, and the Washington County Sheriff’s Office worked together to share information and develop a possible suspect. Just a few days later, detectives were continuing their investigation when two suspects allegedly entered another

Fred Meyer store, this one at 22855 Northeast Park Lane in Wood Village, and robbed that bank location. That robbery occurred on Nov. 26. Police said the suspects attempted to escape capture but were taken into custody by the robbery detectives. Both Johnson and Beisley were arrested and booked into the Multnomah County Jail on a U.S. Marshal’s hold. Johnson is a suspect in a string of bank robberies that occurred in Portland over the three day period between Saturday, Nov.

16 and Monday, Nov. 18. Like the Scappoose robbery, the Portland robberies were committed by a male wielding a note rather than a weapon. Formal federal bank robbery charges are pending.

Scappoose Library waives fines for Share and Care

Once again the Scappoose Public Library will be accepting Food for Fines during the entire month of December. For every non-perishable food item donated, the library will waive $1 worth of fines. There is no cap to the amount waived. Unfortunately, charges for lost items cannot be waived. Share and Care, sponsored by Kiwanis Club and Scappoose Fire District, has placed a collection barrel at the library until Dec. 20. Items donated after the 20th will go to the Scappoose Food Bank. Suggested donations include: canned vegetables, canned and dried fruit, canned soup, ramen, peanut butter, cereals, rice, and beans.

partners ready to help From PAGE A1 Oregon website was already experiencing some delays with the increased volume seen earlier in the week. As of Dec. 2, Cover Oregon said it had enrolled about 3,500 people in health care plans and had another 54,000 applications to process. There are actually several ways to get your application in. Go online to CoverOregon.com to get an application. Along with submitting it online, you can print it out and mail or fax it to Cover Oregon. You can also call 1-855-CoverOR (1-855268-3767) to request an application but it may be too late for that option for many people. While the website may be the easiest route for those used to do all their shopping online, you don’t have to submit your application online. There are certified insurance agents like those at ISNW or community partners available to assist you at no cost. Find a searchable list of partners in your area at CoverOregon.com. The Public Health Foundation of Columbia County is one of those community partners. The agency will be offering assistance at its St. Helens location and some of its school-based health centers

in other communities. For more information, call 503-397-4651.

Other upcoming deadlines: Dec. 15: Those purchasing individual insurance will need to have selected a plan and completed enrollment in order to have coverage in place Jan. 1. Not worried about a break in coverage? Then you have until March 31 to sign up. Dec. 31: If you have signed up for coverage, you must pay your insurance provider by Dec. 31 or your policy will not take effect. Jan. 1: The new insurance policies are in effect. However, if you didn’t sign up in time, if you’re not happy with the plan you chose or you want to see if you’re eligible for a tax credit, you can still enroll and change your plan up through March 31. March 31: Open enrollment ends. If you have a life-changing event – such as getting married or divorced, having a baby, losing a job – your tax credit eligibility may change. You can apply to Cover Oregon for the tax credit.

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An Evening with Santa! Presented by:

The Scappoose Historical Society Santa will be back at the Watts House Pioneer Museum for a very special night for children ages 3-8 years old. Santa will read “The Night Before Christmas” then spend one-on-one time with the Little Ones to hear all their Christmas Wishes. Santa will give a small gift and candy cane to each child!

CHOOSE YOUR VISIT OPTION:

SATURDAY DECEMBER 21, 2013

AFTERNOON VISIT 3-5pm • EVENING VISIT 6- 8pm

ice u J & s e i Cook served wi l be

Tickets are $10.00 per child • Cookies and juice will be served

Child must be accompanied by an adult. Space is limited to the first 16 children per session to register* No charge for infants who accompany. Santa’s proceeds going to the Rainier Food Bank at his request other proceeds to Scappoose Historical Society for this event.

For Information and tickets please call Barb Hayden at 503-987-1191 Or email: Barb@scappoosehistoricalsociety.vpweb.com *Do to limited space we ask that a maximum of four adults accompany children.

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Opinion www.thechronicleonline.com

Wednesday, December 4, 2013

Letters To the Republic On Wednesday, Nov. 20, the repeal of the bureaucratic GBJ policy that was contrary to state law OR 166.370, was discussed once again at the St. Helens School District board meeting. There was a lot of passion on both sides of the issue, but a lot of emotion and made up facts from some who opposed the repeal. One teacher went on a rant about how if the board was concerned about “Constitutional rights,” he should get all of his. One example he gave was his right to free speech; he should be able to cuss in class. What he may not know is that there is no such thing as Constitutional rights. Our rights are inherent and inalienable and come from nature and God. Liberty is freedom with morals and cussing in class doesn’t sound very moral. Your rights can’t intrude on others’ rights. The Constitution limits government, tells them what they can’t touch and puts checks in place, it doesn’t give you rights. One teacher spewed that our country is a Democratic republic as he announced that he was a “Kool-Aid drinker,” and a liberal that would never change. Lenin called them useful

Speedbump

idiots. Here is a lesson for him. The word Democracy comes from two Greek words, Demos (people) and Kratien (to rule), which equals majority rule. Republic comes from the Latin words Res (thing) and Publica (public), which equals the public thing, the law. We are a Republic, under the rule of law. Our founders hated Democracies; as they are short lived and a transformation from a Republic to an oligarchy. The word Democracy is not in the Declaration of Independence, the U.S. Constitution or any state constitution in our great republic. Look it up, but you will notice that Article 4, Section 4 of the Constitution says that every state will be guaranteed a republican form of government. In closing, I would like to say that we prepare for fires at school and have not had a single child die in a school fire in over 50 years. Isn’t it a good idea to let teachers train, get licensed and carry a concealed weapon if they choose, no matter how small the chance of a school attack. It’s common sense, state law, their inherent right and I believe their duty as a citizen. As for the “Kool-Aid drinker”, he should try tea; it tastes better and increases your I.Q.

by Dave Coverly

Chris Brumbles, Deer Island Look up Those are not contrails or clouds. Look up! Our skies no longer look normal. Our skies are being sprayed with chemicals folks and “We The People” must stop it. They spray every day on the hour from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m. They will claim it is for global warming but that is a hoax. They will tell you they are contrails but those disappear instantly but these linger in the air and they are called chemtrails. They form odd shapes and lines. Research chemtrails and geo-engineering and then make some noise to your elected officials. The federal government is doing it and your tax dollars are paying for it without your permission or knowledge. I have been documenting this with photos and video for over seven months now but it has been going on for decades. Its up to you and I to stop this and its happening all over the country and world. The media lies and covers up for those who are doing the spraying and we must tell everyone we know so we can stop it. Ask the local weathermen to explain. They won’t. Please be one who is

awake and aware and help others to do the same. I will be working to get a state initiative to a public vote to

ban poisons in our air, water and food supplies. Please help if you can. Look for details at a later date.

Thanks and look up, then get others to look up, too. Norma Stevens, St. Helens

difficulty getting political leaders on board. “A fear has set in that if they vote for the bill they won’t get reelected. It’s that plain, it’s that simple,” said Diane Feinstein on CBS’s “Face the Nation.” Seeing this outrages many, especially those who feel very strongly that change has to happen to control gun use in this country. “I think there is a hammerlock on Congress by the gun owners and gun people, and it doesn’t matter… The gun used at the LAX was the same model as the gun used in the 2012 Aurora, Colora-

do movie-theater shooting,” Feinstein added. The rifle may be the same but the shooter wasn’t, meaning that the gun isn’t what killed or wounded those people, it was the man behind it. Many Americans share the view that resolutions to problems have to be one way or the other, rather than incorporate both perspectives. According to an April 2013 CNN article, “The leading Senate negotiations on gun control legislation favor expanding background checks.”

The first step to making civilians more comfortable is not removing gun use, but controlling those who have access to rifles via thorough background checks and mandatory gun handling safety courses. The article goes on to say, “Democratic negotiators are hopeful that a deal on background checks can win enough Republican support.” Through the support of our two largest branches of government, those opposing the idea of Americans owning guns will get partial to what they are wishing, and gun owners will be able

to keep their weapons after passing a background check. With this topic it sparks a fire in countless amounts of citizens; leaving it rather difficult to gratify all of them, someone is bound to be unhappy or even enraged. Congress and the Senate should take this matter into the consideration of both sides of the spectrum, and put together a bill that not only puts the best interest of Americans first, but also gratifies the thoughts and opinions of the people. You will never be able to please both sides, but that doesn’t mean you can’t try.

Viewpoints BY MORGAN MACINNIS Scappoose High School

For years there has been an ongoing battle over the decision that needs to be made about gun control. Just like every other dispute, both sides have some very good arguments to this conflict. Laws on gun control range from complete repeal to Americans having full control over these weapons. Many of our country’s major leaders would agree that what the American people think has influenced many of the decisions they have

made. While others claim that is exactly what their job entails, taking the feelings and opinions of the American people into consideration and making laws that put Americans’ best interests first, keep in mind what a majority of America is wishing for. Studies have shown that on average 34 percent of American households contain guns, and an average of 19 percent know how to operate one accurately. Many states have started proposing laws to maintain what has been said to be unruly gunplay, but are having

Building Tiny – Joe Mauck – High School Building Construction There is a growing trend to go green. The St. Helen’s high school Building Construction department is at the educational head of this movement. They might be the only high school in the nation to be building tiny houses. It’s educational, it covers the whole process of building a house, it saves money, and it makes students think about what is really necessary for their habitation. From framing to roofing with electrical and plumbing installed, they’ve got it covered. Want to see? Watch their latest video online! http://www.sthelens.k12.or.us/Page/3762

As the year goes on we will have teachers write short blurbs once a month about what is going on in their classrooms, with their students and about their work. Enjoy.

In Ms. Speiser’s Classroom at the Middle School Students recently finished reading “Ender’s Game” by Orson Scott Card. Thanks to generous donations through Donors Choose, each student gets to keep a copy of the book. Students were excited to finish the book before the movie came out, and most students agree that the book was tons better than the movie! The book brought up many of real word questions about the moral responsibility of governments and the validity of the ends jus-

In Mrs. Alexander’s Classroom – Lewis and Clark In my class, students are working diligently to understand the concept of multiplication as well as master their basic multiplication facts. We learned about multiplying equal groups with Skittles. And then we ate our work! Who knew math could be so tasty! We are learning how to use sensory details in our writing to create vivid images in the reader’s minds. Our Thanksgiving poems evoke the colors of autumn, the sounds of laughter, and the smell of roasted turkey. We also love great books, and have just finished reading Poppy by Avi. Poppy, the deer mouse, took us on a breathtaking adventure through Dimwood Forest. We were inspired by her courage and determination when confronting her bully, Mr. Ocax.

SISSY (F) Sissy is a tiny tiny little thing at about 2 years old. She is super thin and we are working on getting some weight on her. She is blind in one eye (an apparent injury as a baby) and has compensated for it very well. We believe that she may have some limited sight from it. Sissy is adjusting very well to being in a home environment, but will need time and patience in her continued recovery. She has a super affectionate personality and would love to hang out on a lap all day. She has gotten past her hand fears and will come to be picked up. You will find our adoption application linked on our Available page at http://DisplacedPetsRescue.com

Columbia Humane Society

THIS WEEK’S FEATURED PET

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tifying the means, so there were many heated debates. Watching seventh-graders make connections between China’s one child policy, Nagasaki and Hiroshima, and a science fiction novel has been wonderful and interesting. The students are moving toward writing position papers next month, and the conversations continue to be insightful.

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Contact Us • Phone: (503) 397-0116 • Fax: (503) 397-4093 • www.thechronicleonline.com • Follow Us • facebook.com/sthelenschronicle or twitter.com/shchronicle Editorial: news@thechronicleonline.com or sports@thechronicleonline.com • Advertising: advertising@thechronicleonline.com or classified@thechronicleonline.com Write to Us We want to hear from you and encourage you to write letters to the editor. Because of space limitations, shorter letters have a better chance of being printed. We may edit your letter for style, grammar and clarity, although we do as little editing as possible. If you don’t want your letter printed under those conditions, just let us know. Thank-you letters are limited to a general thanks and summary of an issue or action. We reserve the right to exclude lists of people, organizations and businesses. Letters received after noon on Friday may not be in time for the following Wednesday’s paper. To verify authenticity, all letters must be signed and include your address

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Guest Commentary We welcome all variety of community viewpoints in the newspaper. These longer, guest opinions might be columns written by newsmakers, public officials or organization representatives. Or you might just have interesting thoughts to share and a penchant for writing. If you’d like to submit a guest column for publication, contact us at (503) 397-0116 or news@thechronicleonline.com.

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In search of the perfect Christmas tree

Obituaries Robert (R.J.) Brown Bob was born in Freeport, Illinois in 1927. He moved to Oregon following his service in the U.S. Army and married Helen Schroetke in 1948, settling in Portland to raise their seven children. Bob went to work for PGE in 1947 and over the years worked as a lineman, commercial sales rep, lighting consultant, and retired as Director of Safety in 1985. After Robert (R.J.) Brown retiring, he continued his work as a safety consultant in Honolulu. Always active in the community, Bob was a past board member of the Portland Jaycees, a UGN loaned executive and an executive board member of Oregon United Appeal. He was active in the parent associations of St. Clare’s School in Portland and Serra Catholic in Salem and was a former president of the North Salem Lions Club and the Portland Junior Miss Pageant. For the last several years Bob was a resident of St. Helens where he pursued his passion for Northwest history, devoting much of his time to the Columbia County Historical Society

Wednesday, December 4, 2013

and managing the St. Helens Museum. Bob is survived by his seven children, seven grandchildren and three great-grandchildren. A private graveside service was held at Mt. Calvary Catholic Cemetery.

BY DENISE RUTTAN denise.ruttan@oregonstate.edu

Choosing the perfect Christmas tree is often a very personal experience. Perhaps the green branches of the well-loved Douglasfir or Noble fir delight you. But if you want to give the star of your living room a different look this winter, Oregon State University Extension Service Christmas tree specialist Chal Landgren suggests Nordmann and Turkish firs – two closely related species with similar characteristics. Both species arrived in Oregon from Turkey and Russia in the 1960s. To this day, Douglas and Noble firs still make up 95 percent of Oregon’s Christmas tree market, according to Landgren. But he has seen more farms growing Nordmann and Turkish firs in recent years. Your best bet to find them is at a choose-and-cut Christmas tree farm, he said. “The benefits for the grower are that they are not as prone to the insect and disease problems that affect other species,” said Landgren, a horticulture professor in OSU’s College of Agricultural Sciences. “For the consumer, these firs have characteristics that are more like Noble firs. They have heavy branches for ornaments and their needles stay on for a long time rather than falling onto the carpet,

Randall Dean Kraft Randall Dean Kraft was born on March 4, 1951, to Harriet Kraft (Smith) and Albert Kraft. Randy was the third of five children. Randy rafted the Grand Canyon along with many other rivers, he rode his motorcycle across the United States and was an avid golfer, Randall Dean Kraft fisherman and bowler. There will be a gathering at Oregon Trail Lanes on Dec. 8 at 1 p.m. Randy leaves behind a daughter and son, his siblings, many other family members and friends. He will be greatly missed. Birds of Love. Darrel Thomas Dixon Darrel Thomas Dixon, 84, formerly of St. Helens, died in his home on Nov. 27 from cancer. Memorial service will be at 2 p.m. on Saturday, Dec. 7, at Church of God Seventh Day in Harrisburg, Ore.

with the provision that they’re kept in water.” More than 130,000 Nordmann firs worth $2.1 million were sold in Oregon in 2010, according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture. Another species Landgren recommends is the Grand fir. It has a pleasant fir scent, he said, but it tends to be more perishable unless kept in water than other species. He also suggests Fraser fir, a pretty tree native to North Carolina that looks like a Noble with smaller needles that stay on the tree for a long time. To find specific tree species at Oregon farms, Landgren recommends searching the Pacific Northwest Christmas Tree Association’s online directory at nwchristmastrees.org/find-your-perfect-christmas-tree. Landgren offered the following suggestions for keeping your dream tree at its best during the holidays: At the farm, pick out a tree that looks fresh and healthy, with needles that snap like a carrot. Shake the tree a few times to get rid of old needles. When you bring the tree home, cut a quarter-inch slice off the base of the tree to allow it to take up water in the stand. Choose a stand that can hold a quart of water for every inch of the stem diameter. Place the tree in water if you are storing it prior to

Photo by Lynn Ketchum

The Nordmann fir is the third most popular Christmas tree grown in Oregon. Douglas and Noble firs make up 95 percent of Oregon’s Christmas tree market

putting it up in your living room. Check the water level daily. Trees will be very thirsty in the first few days inside a heated home. If you keep your house warm, the tree can dry out quickly. Don’t put additives in the water. You may have heard rumors that vodka, bleach, aspirin, sugar and

any number of substances can preserve a tree; this is a myth. Some additives can actually cause the tree to shed needles or dry out faster. It just needs clean, cold water, Landgren said. For more information, see the website for OSU’s Christmas tree program at http://bit.ly/OSU_ChristmasTreeProgram.

Nob Hill Nature Park: the 2013 year in review BY CAROLINE SKINNER Submitted to The Chronicle

Nob Hill Nature Park is a small, oak-woodland and natural area in St Helens. The Friends of Nob Hill Nature Park, which is an all-volunteer group, serve as park stewards. Once again, we are thankful to all those who have helped us this year. We had a good turnout at both of our semi-annual work parties, held on the first Saturday in April and November. At the April work party, we enjoyed help from Scappoose Cub Scout Troop 294. After touring the park, we did some planting in the lower section, and handpulled blackberry that had re-sprouted. Since that time, we’ve had a strong resurgence of Pacific ninebark in an area that was formerly choked with blackberry. We also saw spring trillium and

fawn lily in bloom. It was a great year for larkspur (delphinium nutalii). In June, we had Jason Clinch come out from Native Plant Society of Oregon. He inventoried the electric blue larkspur as part of that group’s Rare Plant Watch program. We saw other wildflowers, too, including white prairie star and bright yellow western buttercup. We also harvested some dry camas seed and replanted it in other parts of the park, in hopes of improving our dwindling camas areas. In both March and July, we had help from the county corrections work crew to cut back some heavy blackberries, creating a new, open area ready for more native plants. Through Scappoose Bay Watershed Council (SBWC), we also hired a restoration work crew to sweep the park to spot treat for other blackberry re-sprouts.

In November, a group of eight hardy volunteers came out, despite the forecast for cold, hard rain. Thanks to Chas McCoy of SBWC, we had 25 native plants to put into our newly cleared area of the park near South Fourth Street, behind the big fir tree. Fortunately, we only had a few rain showers and some autumn sun too. We used mulch to help retain moisture and suppress weeds at the base of each new plant. Some of those plantings include Indian plum, thimbleberry, Mahonia, vine maple, elderberry and madrone. We also planted a dozen wild iris, or iris tenax, donated by Joan Rainey. The next day, we went back and screened some of the new plants with chicken wire to protect them from deer. Part of the group also pulled ivy from along this area’s edge. Each work party has a big impact on the

park’s health. It is slowly returning to a more natural state as we continue to battle invasive, non-native plants. Oak woodlands like Nob Hill were once common throughout the Willamette Valley, covering up to two million acres. Today it is considered a rare and valuable habitat, so we are fortunate to have this special place in St Helens. We thank SBWC and the City of St Helens Parks Department for ongoing support of Nob Hill Nature Park. To visit, take Gable Road at Wal-Mart in St. Helens. Go toward the river. Bear right on Plymouth Street and go until you see the wastewater treatment plant on your right. There is plenty of easy parking at the water treatment plant across from the park’s main entrance. We hope to see you at our next work party, on Saturday, April 5, 2014 or in the park this winter.

Courtesy photo

Volunteer Jeff Booth lends a helping hand at a Friends of Nob Hill work party.

Annual Christmas Ship Party at Caples House Knapp Center 1925 First Street | Columbia City, OR 97018

At 6:00 we will gather for cookies and hot chocolate. After the ships pass, we will gather again for Christmas Carols. C11917

Free event!

Donations gladly accepted.

This space donated by Columbia Funeral Home • Serving Columbia County since the early 1900’s • 503-397-1154

Santa’s mailbox ready for letters Have a letter for Santa? Santa’s helpers are ready to make sure it gets it all the way to the North Pole by Christmas. Just drop it in Santa’s mail box, located inside Scappoose City Hall

from now through Wednesday, Dec. 18. City Hall hours are 8 a.m. until 5 p.m., Monday through Friday and is located at 33568 East Columbia Ave.

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reduce-reuse-recycle SUNDAY, DECEMBER 8TH, 1 PM In addition to lighting candles, the ceremony will include special music provided by members of the St. Helens High School Choir, words of comfort and a keepsake ornament.

Our commitment to the families we serve does not end with the funeral.

We sincerely hope you will be able to join us, and that this will be a time of peace and comfort.

Out&About www.thechronicleonline.com

Wednesday, December 4, 2013

Christmas tours of the Watts House Museum begin Dec. 6 The Grant Watts Pioneer Museum is decked out in beautiful Christmas themes, with every room decorated and unique trees in many of the rooms. The museum tours are hosted by the Scappoose Historical Society, which also decorated the main floor. Upstairs rooms have been “adopted” and decorated by Columbia River PUD, Friends of the Scappoose Library. Meadowpark Assisted Living, Columbia County Dairy Women and Shea Jewell. Tours will be offered on Friday, Saturday and Sunday evenings beginning Dec. 6 and will run through Dec. 23. The tours won’t be offered on Dec. 21, due to a special “Evening with Santa” program. There’s no admission charged for the tours. Stop by and enjoy some Christ-

Holiday BAZAARS

mas cookies and hot cider. The gift shop is stocked with apparel, jewelry and Christmas items. Group tours are also available on other evenings. Call Barb at 503961-5621 for more information.

An evening with Santa Children ages 2 through 8 can come spend the evening (or afternoon) with Santa on Dec. 21 as he spends the time reading a classic holiday story and listening to Christmas wishes. Two session times are being offered. The first is from 3–5 p.m. and the second is from 6–8 p.m. Space is limited to 15 children per session. Tickets are $10 per child and there is no charge for infants. Santa will read the “Night Before Christmas” then spend one-on-one

time with the little ones. Each child will receive a small gift and candy cane. Cookies and juice will be available in the kitchen. Souvenier pictures will be taken of the children in the foyer in front of the tree for each parents’ scrapbook. Tickets are on sale now.

Sat. Dec 7 St. Frederic Catholic Church Holiday Luncheon & Bazaar “All Things Italian” 9 a.m. – 2 p.m. Buccini Hall 165 S. 14th St., St. Helens $2 - Coffee and biscotti 9 a.m. – 11 a.m. $6 - luncheon 11 a.m. – 2 p.m. wreaths, crafts, jams/ jellies, surprise gifts and much more.

For more information or to get a ticket, call Barb at 503-961-5621. Due to overwhelming attendance, the museum is asking that children be accompanied by no more than four adults so that everyone can have the opportunity to get up front for pictures of the children with Santa.

Avamere 2400 Gable Road St. Helens Holiday Bazaar 9 a.m. – 4 p.m. St. Helens Moose Holiday Bazaar St. Helens Moose Lodge 57317 Old Portland Road Warren 9 a.m. – 3 p.m. Moose Café will be open from 11 a.m. - 2 p.m. For Vendor information Call Scott Schulte 503-369-2611

Public Meetings Wednesday, Dec. 4 7 a.m. – Columbia County Traffic Safety Commission meets at America’s Best Value Inn. 10 a.m. – Columbia County Board of Commissioners holds its regular board meeting and its regular staff meeting at 1 p.m., in the commissioners’ meeting room at the Columbia County Courthouse. 1 p.m. – City of St. Helens City Council work session in city

council chambers. 5:30 p.m. – City of Scappoose hosts an open house on Transportation System Plan update in council chambers at Scappoose City Hall, 33568 E. Columbia Ave., in Scappoose. 7 p.m. – City of St. Helens City Council regular session in city council chambers. Thursday, Dec. 5 9 a.m. – Columbia 9-1-1 Communications board of direc-

tors’ meeting. Monday, Dec. 9 10 a.m. – The regular meeting of the Northwest Oregon Housing Authority (NOHA) will be held at the NOHA office, 147 S. Main Ave., Warrenton, OR. For agenda items, call NOHA at (5030 861-0119, Ex. 112. 6 p.m. – Fairgrounds board meeting to be held in the 4-H building. 7 p.m. – City of St. Helens Li-

brary Board meets in city council chambers. Tuesday, Dec. 10 7 p.m. – City of St. Helens Planning Commission meets in city council chambers. Wednesday, Dec. 11 8:30 a.m. – Port of St. Helens board of commissioners meets in the port office commissioners meeting room, in Columbia City.

Sat. Dec. 14 Holiday Bazaar To benefit Columbia County Toy & Joy Columbia City Community Hall (1850 Second St., Columbia City) 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. Come and enjoy a wonderful holiday bazaar

Community Calendar Wednesday, Dec. 4 · Scappoose Public Library presents story time for ages 0–5 at 10:30 a.m. The theme and craft is snow. · The Columbia River Piecemakers Quilt Guild meets at 6:30 p.m. at the Grace Lutheran Church, 51737 Columbia River Highway, in Scappoose. Guest quilters are welcome to join. Thursday, Dec. 5 · Scappoose Public Library Teen Advisory Board meets at 6 p.m. Application required, join us to discuss future library programs and events over pizza and refreshments, for

grades 6–12. Friday, Dec. 6 · Scappoose Public Library teen movie: “Will Ferrell, Anna Friel and Danny McBride end up in a world full of dinosaurs in this comedy adventure.” Snacks and refreshments are provided, free, no registration, for grades 6–12. Saturday, Dec. 7 · Breakfast with Santa! 7:30a.m.–12:30 p.m. Scappoose Senior Center, 33342 Meadow Dr., Scappoose. Enjoy a Pancake Breakfast, silent auction and caroling. Tickets $6, under 6 yrs old $3. Sponsored by Girl Scouts.

Columbia Theatre

· Willapa Hills Audubon Society – 1:30 p.m. – 3:30 p.m. Long Beach Grange, 5715 Sandridge Road, Long Beach, Wash. New birders, experienced birders and families are all welcome to come and learn about birding organizations in Pacific County by visiting booths by Willapa Hills and Grays Harbor Audubon Societies, Shoalwater Birders, and Friends of Willapa National Wildlife Refuge. There will also be two 20-minute presentations on Citizen Science opportunities with COASST at 2 p.m. and 3 p.m. · St. Helens Christmas tree lighting and Christmas ship parade starts with the tree light-

ing at 5:30 p.m., followed by the Christmas ships at 6 p.m. Participating downtown businesses will be handing out free movie passes to the Columbia Theatre and a raffle for prizes from Dockside, Klondike and the Columbia Theatre. Make sure to say hello to Mr. and Mrs. Santa Claus. Tree lighting will be in the downtown plaza. Christmas ships will leave from and return to the St. Helens City Docks. Wednesday, Dec. 11 · Scappoose Public Library presents story time for ages 0–5 at 10:30 a.m. The theme and craft is penguins.

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Showtimes www.ScappooseCinema7.com G State of the Art Digital Cinema

December 15 Holiday Bazaar To benefit Columbia County Toy & Joy Columbia City Community Hall (1850 Second St., Columbia City) 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. Come and enjoy a wonderful holiday bazaar with fabulous homemade and baked goods. Find that “hard to find” gift for that someone special. Don’t miss out on your picture with Santa he will be visiting from 11 a.m. – 2 p.m. A $2 donation is requested but not required. Pre-register a booth space before December 1st Contact Tricia 503-4384106. Spaces $30 & $45

All are welcome to join in. Music scores will be available. Please bring canned food donation for Columbia Pacific Food Bank.

• Sat., Dec. 21, 7:30 pm. Columbia Chorale’s “Winter Songs” concert.

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website www.thecolumbiatheatre.com sign up for our newsletter on Facebook or the website

Cubs Corner Child Care And Little Lions Day School Are putting on the St. Helens High School Art & Craft Fair St. Helens High School Commons 8 a.m. – 4 p.m. Proceeds will go to Cubs Corner Childcare.

• Thurs., Dec. 19, 7 pm, “Sing-along Messiah.”

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with fabulous homemade and baked goods. Find that “hard to find” gift for that someone special Pre-register a booth space before December 1st Contact Tricia 503-4384106. Spaces $30 & $45

COLUMBIA CHORALE of Oregon EVENTS

Honest service, Fair Price

OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK 503-397-9791 212 South First Street, St. Helens

EVENTS location *United First Methodist Church, 560 Columbia Blvd, St. Helens, Oregon

Free Admission - Donations Accepted For more information, please contact ccosinging@gmail.com , or (503) 366-3800

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WEDNESDAY EVENING KATU KOIN DISC KGW KOPB KPTV ESPN DISN KPDX TBS

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KATU News at 6 (N) KOIN Local 6 at 6 (N) CBS Evening News

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KATU News at 6 (N)

Family Guy

Seinfeld “The Dog”

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^ KATU News at 6 (N) & KOIN Local 6 at 6 (N) CBS Evening News _ Bering Sea Gold News ( NewsChannel 8 Nightly Business Rpt. * Journeys in Africa , 6 O’Clock News (N) Timbers in 30 C NBA Basketball: Nuggets at Celtics I Good Luck Charlie Jessie

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Seinfeld

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Family Guy

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Family Guy “Bigfat”

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Jeopardy! (N) Wheel of Fortune (N) Last Man Standing (:31) The Neighbors Entertainment ’Night Extra (N) Frosty the Snowman Yes, Virginia

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Grey’s Anatomy “Man on the Moon” (N)

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Scandal “YOLO” (N)

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Shark Tank (N) (DVS) NCIS: Los Angeles Hetty goes on a trip.

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