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Trump rally

Pandemic vaccines

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Friday, January 8, 2021

Vol. 129, No. 35

Serving the Lower Columbia Region since 1891

Landslide disrupts highway

Courtesy photos from ODOT

Debris from the hillside slid down and covered a portion of Highway 30 east of Astoria. The road was opened to one lane for traffic on Jan. 5.

JEREMY C. RUARK jruark@countrymedia.net

Highway 30 just east of Astoria reopened to one lane on Jan. 5 following a rock and mud slide that closed the busy route early Monday morning, Jan. 4.

“The cause is excessive rainfall the past few days and saturated soils,” Oregon Department of Transportation (ODOT) spokesman Lou Torres said. “We have many places on state highways along the coast, in the coast range and in the Cascades where we can get landslides, mudslides, ecial Report Sp

2021

rockfalls, etc. After all, this is Oregon where we get lots of rainfall that falls on steep slopes.”

Torres said motorists need to pay attention when driving along Highway 30 and other routes in landslide areas.

“The message is that this is winter in Oregon,” he said. “Keep both hands on the steering wheel, mind on driving and eliminate distractions. Be prepared for winter driving conditions which can mean dealing with wet and icy roads, snow, high water and possibly rock and mud slides.”

Torres added that road closures during the winter are a fact of life

in the region and can’t be totally prevented.

“Always leave plenty of travel time, check TripCheck.com before you go and expect delays,” Torres said.

The Oregon Department of Geology and Mineral Industries (DOGAMI) said the landslides can be caused by several factors, including the type of geology, the slope and water. Rainwater buildup following frequents storms can lead to a landslide.

According to a DOGAMI executive summary report about landslides and debris flows, the events are common in the Oregon Coast Range due

to the combination of high precipitation, steep slopes, and landslideprone geologic units. Cutting through the northern Coast Range, the U.S. Highway 30 (Oregon State Highway 92) corridor is prone to slope instability.

DOGAMI lists the following for precautions and safety.

People, structures and roads located below steep slopes in canyons and near the mouths of canyons may be at serious risk. Dangerous places can include: • Canyon bottoms, stream channels, and areas of rock and soil accumulation at the outlets of canyons.

• Bases of steep hillsides.

• Road cuts or other areas where slopes of hills have been excavated or over-steepened.

• Places where slides or debris flows have occurred in the past.

According to DOGAMI’s A Homeowners Guide to Landslides, a landslide is the downward slope movement of rock, soil or debris.

Debris flow, earth flow, rock fall, mudflow, mudslide, and slump are also terms for landslide. ­­­­ See LANDSLIDE Page A4

A LOOK AHEAD

T h e C hief

County perspective: Magruder maps 2021 MONIQUE MERRILL chronicle2@countrymedia.net

Editor’s Note:

Courtesy photo from Columbia County

Columbia County Commissioners Casey Garrett, left, new chair Margaret Magruder, center and Henry Heimuller at the swearing in ceremony.

This is the second in a series of special reports you’ll read only here online and in the Wednesday print editions of The Chronicle in the weeks ahead providing insight from members of our community into what we might expect in 2021.

The following report focuses on a viewpoint from Columbia County.

On the first county commission

meeting of the year Wednesday, Jan. 6, Margaret Magruder was voted the new chair of the commission.

She was reelected to serve a second term in November and is joined on the council by Henry Heimuller and Casey Garrett.

Magruder said she is hopeful that 2021 will bring a return to normalcy to the lives of county residents.

“Hopefully the coming year will see COVID-19 cases diminish and a successful vaccination program implemented so citizens can get back to work, restaurants gyms, bowling alleys and other types of

closed businesses can open and students can get back to school,” she said.

The county public health department is busy coordinating vaccination and testing programs for the COVID-19 pandemic, she said.

The effect of the pandemic and associated restrictions and safety guidelines have disrupted the normal procedures for county business.

“The social distancing requirements of the pandemic made us ­­­­ See 2021 Page A2

Briarcliff Pool’s future remains uncertain JEREMY C. RUARK jruark@countrymedia.net

Plans to reopen the Briarcliff Pool are on hold pending the ability to fund the facility, according to Rainier School Interim Superin-

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Contact The Chief Phone: 503-397-0116 Fax: 503-397-4093 chiefnews@countrymedia.net 1805 Columbia Blvd., St. Helens, OR 97051

tendent Joesph Hattrick.

“I want to reopen it,” he said.

“It’s just a matter of time and figuring out what kind of creative financing options we can come up with.”

The challenge Hattrick acknowledges that the challenge is finding the estimated $180,000 cost of maintaining and operating the pool, which is housed on the campus of Rainier Jr./Sr. High School.

“I have received pressure from both sides of this,” he said. “Some community members want to close the pool, but the majority want to keep it and see it reopen.”

The pool closed in March due to the pandemic.

“I was disappointed when I started as interim superintendent that the pool was not being used and was closed,” Hattrick said.

“It had not been budgeted for the school year. I still believe the pool is a huge service to our community.”

The Briarcliff Pool was constructed in 1978 following community concerns about swim safety for area children.

An effort by some community members to raise funds to reopen the pool to allow the school district’s swim team to practice was launched in 2019. A longterm goal of the community group was to take over operations and management of the pool from the school district.

Hattrick said that effort was

said.

According to Hattrick, the pandemic continues to cloud the future of the Briarcliff Pool.

“As soon as we are about to open up athletics again, open up in-person instruction at some level, I’d like our school swim team to have the same options, but we have to figure out even a bandaid solution how students can participate.”

Hattrick said his priorities are still the same.

“It’s my understanding the pool was brought to the community because of pretty big need, so by no means do I want to take that away,” he said. “It is still a huge service to the community and I want to figure out how we can reopen it.”

Next step Courtesy photo from Friends of Rainier Pool

The Briarcliff Pool remains closed due to financial challenges and the pandemic.

sidetracked by the pandemic.

“That is not something that is currently happening,” he said.

District budget impact Hattrick said one of his goals as he assembles a proposed new district budget is to keep close tabs on the school finances and opening up the pool for a select few still would incur a great cost.

“I am really trying to avoid not-budgeted expenses and the pool would fall within that cat-

egory,” he said.

That’s why the creative financing solutions are important to the pool’s future, Hattrick said. In that effort he is reaching out for community partnerships and seeking different funding sources, such as grants.

“I am trying to figure out creatively where it is not going to be a cost that will take funds away from education, but it can be an additional service, rather than take away from those dollars that should go into the classrooms,” he

Hattrick said he is asking for community patience as the district navigates what he hopes to be the end of the pandemic and all of the restrictions.

“As we develop plans and opportunities, I will message the community and let them know either how they can take part in some of the solutions, or give them frequent updates in the direction we are going,” he said.

Follow developments of this story at thechiefnews.com and in the Friday print editions of The Chief.

www.thechiefnews.com

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Wednesday, January 8, 2021

OHA boosts vaccination efforts MAX KIRKENDALL

newsguardeditor@countrymedia.net

MONIQUE MERRILL

chronicle2@countrymedia.net

Health officials detailed the plans on how they plan to meet Gov. Kate Brown’s goal to meet the benchmark of administering 12,000 COVID-19 vaccinations in Oregon over a two-week period.

Brown said, Jan. 4, the 12,000 doses a day goal will “put (Oregon) on track to deploy every vaccine we have in our hands.”

“This is an all-hands-ondeck effort, and I have directed OHA (Oregon Health Authority) to partner as widely as possible to ensure we are using all available resources to ramp up Oregon’s vaccinations rapidly,” Brown said.

OHA Director Pat Allen spoke with members of the media Jan. 5 along with OHA’s Chief Medical Officer Dr. Dana Hargunani.

Allen said Oregon currently ranks 36th in the United States in vaccine distribution with 1.2% of the population receiving the first dose of the COVID-19 vaccine.

“These COVID-19 vaccines have proven to be safe and they are the most reliable tool we have to stop the spread of this virus,” Hargunani said.

Allen said getting vaccinations done as quickly as possible is a top priority for OHA because Oregon is considered vulnerable to the virus as far fewer people have contracted it compared to other states in the U.S. Last week, Oregon re-

ceived 34,000 doses of Pfizer vaccine last week and over 24,000 doses of the Moderna vaccine. Over 51,000 doses have been administered, which has accounted for about 1 in 4 doses administered that Oregon received. In Columbia County, 354 people had been vaccinated as of Wednesday.

As of Wednesday, 595 people in Oregon have had both doses and are considered fully immune, four of which were in Columbia County.

With OHA’s five step plan, Allen believes Oregon is on pace to reach the 12,000 doses administered per day by next week.

Hargunani detailed the plan that includes expanding partnerships and administration sites. The five steps include: • Speeding Phase 1a (administering vaccines to health care workers and long-term care facilities) by staging.

• Expanding federal pharmacy partnerships to reach more nursing home residents and staff members.

• Giving Phase 1a workers the ability to get vaccinated at a local pharmacy.

• Leveraging all Public Health agencies to help with administering vaccines.

• Supporting innovated partnerships.

Hargunani said the COVID-19 has proven to be a little more difficult to distribute compared to the flu shot. Some issues OHA has had to overcome include: Adapting to distribution during a pandemic, which provides challenges like finding a controlled, safe space for administration; the Pfizer vaccine requires ultra cold

Courtesy photo from the Oregon Health Sciences University

Last week, Oregon received 34,000 doses of Pfizer vaccine last week and over 24,000 doses of the Moderna vaccine. Over 51,000 doses have been administered, which has accounted for about 1 in 4 doses administered that Oregon received.

storage.

OHA is currently working to get more of this storing units in more hospitals; and Oregon does not have enough doses for everyone right now, which has caused the need to prioritize who gets access to it first.

To overcome some of these challenges OHA is hoping to rely on partnerships with local agencies. One of these new partnerships was announced by Joe Ness, chief operations officer of OHSU Healthcare.

Ness said OHSU is currently OHSU administering about 1,000 doses of the vaccine per day and are expecting to expand next week thanks to a partnership with SEIU 503, Oregon’s Public Services and Care Provider Union. The partnership will focuses on getting vaccines to long-term care facilities.

“We are a community of healers and we care deeply about our most vulnerable

populations,” Ness said.

Melissa Unger, board member of SEIU 503, stressed the importance of getting vaccine doses to longterm care facilities because they have been susceptible to the virus and care facility workers are also often overlooked. Unger said they are “excited to collaborate to expand vaccine distribution to more frontline workers.”

Within Columbia County At The Amber, a senior living facility in Clatskanie, Executive Director Wanda Harris said she expects the vaccine to be available to residents and staff toward the end of this month.

Vaccinations will be mandatory for staff members, but residents will have the option depending on their health and consultation with family members and doctors, she said.

Harris will also be receiv-

ing the vaccine first, and said the arrival of vaccines at the center will be welcomed.

“This is a sigh of relief for us, knowing our residents will be safe,” she said.

Visitors have not been allowed in the building since March of 2020.

“Family and friends of these folks have not been allowed to be a part of their lives for a very long time,” she said. “This is really good news.”

The isolation has been difficult residents at the center, she said. Communal dining is no longer an option and group activities have been canceled.

“It’s been heartbreaking, especially around the holidays,” Harris said. “People haven’t been able to have family come in. That just wasn’t possible.”

The toll has also been felt by the staff at the center, who have had to make sacrifices to ensure the health of them-

selves and those they care for, she said.

“As health care providers we have to minimize personal exposure and take extra efforts to make sure we’re healthy,” Harris said.

“We’re not going into places that have the virus, avoiding people who might be exposed somewhere else.”

Sanitation and cleaning efforts have been ramped up as well, and Harris said she is thankful that no cases have been reported at the facility. Now, the next step to ensuring safety of residents and staff is just a few weeks away.

“Having this light at the end of the tunnel has been good for people mentally as well,” she said.

COVID-19 cases Over 50 new cases of COVID-19 were reported over the weekend, along with one new death. The county’s total case count was 903 as of Wednesday, and the death toll was 15, according to information from the OHA. December saw the highest number of both COVID-19 cases and COVID-19 deaths.

There were 317 new cases of COVID-19 in December, and nine deaths.

Across the state, daily case numbers have fallen slightly, but cases in Columbia County have stayed largely consistent. Hospitalizations across the state have also fallen slightly, with 102 COVID-19 patients in intensive care units as of Monday.

The state total number of cases was 120,233 as of Wednesday and the death toll was 1,558.

Violence marks distant pro-Trump rallies courage protecting all elected officials from criminals bent on destroying democracy.

And I very much look forward to resuming the urgent work for our country, as soon as possible.”

As the demonstration ended, national media reported four people died, 14 police officers were injured and there were 69 arrests.

Congress retuned to the capitol building late Wednesday night to confirm Joe Biden as the winner of the U.S. presidency.

Columbia County demonstration Jeremy C. Ruark / The Chief

President Trump supporters wave and hold flags as traffic passes by the Columbia County rally held in St. Helens.

JEREMY C. RUARK jruark@countrymedia.net

As local supporters gathered in Columbia County to voice their support for President Donald Trump on Wednesday, other supporters stormed the U.S. Capitol in Washington, D.C., breaching police security and temporarily delayed the certification of the Electoral College votes.

Just before the violence took place, President Trump spoke to supporters in a rally near the capitol building. As the supporters moved from that rally to the capitol building dozens forced their way into the capitol building.

The chaos and disturbance played out over live televised media reports Wednesday afternoon. Striking photos show officers and security guards with guns

2021 From Page A1 even more aware of the need to expand our working space for the safety and convenience of our employees and the public,” Magruder said.

That awareness led the county to lease the John Gumm School building to house the public health department and create a new meeting space for the Board of Commission and other committee meetings. The meeting space will allow for improved audio and visual functions as well as updated virtual meeting tools, she said.

The need for reliable

drawn as the crowd moves into the chambers.

Congress members were evacuated. According to reports, one woman was shot and later died as the events unfolded inside the capitol.

President-Elect Biden called for President Trump to “step up” and stop the disturbance. Trump later issued a video statement asking people taking part in the disturbance to go home in peace.

Oregon Congressman Peter DeFazio released the following statement concerning the disturbance.

“This is their attempt to invalidate the election. We’re looking at an attempted coup being egged on by a minority of the Republican party and Donald Trump.”

Oregon U.S. Sen. Ron Wyden issued a statement about the riot at the U.S. Capitol.

“What’s happening today in our nation’s Capitol is a direct assault on democracy, a riot by insurrectionists that caps off four years of Donald Trump fanning the flames of fanaticism. Every Republican lawmaker who supported his efforts to overturn a legitimate election shares responsibility for the violence at the heart of our democracy.

“All Americans must be able to elect House and Senate members safe in the knowledge that their views will be represented in civil debate here in Congress without mob rule ever squelching that discussion.

“As a steadfast defender of the First Amendment, I will always support peaceful protest even if I disagree with the views that are expressed. This is far from peaceful protest. But I thank the Capitol Police for their

broadband service has become clear over 2020 when schools starting online learning and people began to work from home. She said the county had intended to make progress on addressing the broadband needs following a broadband study in 2018-19 but the project was stalled.

“My personal home connection does not allow me to successfully participate in virtual meetings from my home computer, so I am well aware of the need,” Magruder said.

The county is working with Clatsop and Tillamook counties and the ColumbiaPacific Economic Development District to pave a path forward to address the broadband needs for residents in the area, she said.

Over the last year, three department heads at the county have retired or moved to different positions and the county is in the process of interviewing candidates to fill the positions, she said.

Filling those positions is one of the immediate projects ahead for the commissioners, another is resuming a road project that the pandemic disrupted.

“There are a number of roads in the county that we discovered had not been dedicated to the county, however they have been used and maintained as county roads since their creation,” she said. The majority of the roads are on the drainage district levees and the next step for the project will require obtaining easements

Columbia County’s trusted local news source

In Columbia County, a small group of Trump supporters gathered along Highway 30 at the Safeway shopping center in St. Helens holding American flags and waving at passing vehicles.

The rally was held during the noon hour Wednesday.

St. Helens resident Brenda Flori said she attended the local rally to protest the United States government.

“I am protesting the rigged election and to support President Trump and the American values that created this great country,” she said.

No federal courts have upheld any allegations of election interference.

St. Helens Police said no arrests were made during the Columbia County rally.

Salem chaos In Salem, two people were arrested Wednesday and police declared an unlawful assembly during a pro-Trump rally at the and surveys, she said.

The CZ Trail project and other improvements to county parks will be addressed as well, she said. Also ahead is a review of the county’s strategic plan, which staff has been developing and refining over the past three years.

“These efforts have been on hold this year, however we will renew these discussions to further define our priorities,” she said. “Service, engagement, connection and innovation are the guiding principles of our plan.”

Magruder’s individual priorities include economic development, highest and best use of natural resources, she said.

Magruder lives in Clatskanie and is a lifelong resident of Columbia County.

state capitol building. Late Wednesday evening, State Police issued the following statement: “Oregon State Police (OSP) have heard rumors that armed groups were considering taking over and/or occupy the State Capitols.

Oregon State Police fully support peoples first amendment rights of freedom of speech and to gather peacefully. OSP will not tolerate criminal activities and you will be arrested if you en-

gage in any of these acts.

The security of the capitol is our priority, if you are considering any unlawful activities at the Oregon State Capitol or surrounding areas, please reconsider. The safety of our community members, Capitol occupants, and police officers is paramount.

If you are aware of anyone that intends to engage in these criminal acts, please report them to your local law enforcement or to the Oregon State Police immediately.”

Phone and Internet Discounts Available to CenturyLink Customers The Oregon Public Utility Commission designated CenturyLink as an Eligible Telecommunications Carrier within its service area for universal service purposes. CenturyLink’s basic local service rates for residential voice lines are $21.00 per month and business services are $33.00$37.00 per month. Specific rates will be provided upon request.

CenturyLink participates in a government benefit program (Lifeline) to make residential telephone or broadband service more affordable to eligible low-income individuals and families. Eligible customers are those that meet eligibility standards as defined by the FCC and state commissions.

Residents who live on federally recognized Tribal Lands may qualify for additional Tribal benefits if they participate in certain additional federal eligibility programs. The Lifeline discount is available for only one telephone or qualifying broadband service per household, which can be either a wireline or wireless service. Broadband speeds must be 25 Mbps download and 3 Mbps upload or faster to qualify.

A household is defined for the purposes of the Lifeline program as any individual or group of individuals who live together at the same address and share income and expenses. Lifeline service is not transferable, and only eligible consumers may enroll in the program. Consumers who willfully make false statements in order to obtain Lifeline telephone or broadband service can be punished by fine or imprisonment and can be barred from the program.

If you live in a CenturyLink service area, please call 1-888-833-9522 or visit centurylink.com/ lifeline with questions or to request an application for the Lifeline program.

www.thechiefnews.com

Wednesday, January 8, 2021

• The police blotter relates to the public record of incidents as reported by law enforcement agencies. All individuals arrested or charged with a crime are presumed innocent until proven guilty.

Information printed is preliminary and subject to change.

Oregon State Police Dec. 2 • A hunting party on the Sauvie Island Wildlife Area reported seeing another hunter shoot a swan. There is no open swan season in Oregon. A Fish and Wildlife trooper located the suspect, who had believed he had shot a snow goose and admitted he did not have his Northwest Goose certification. The certification includes passing a test on waterfowl identification.

The hunter was cited for unlawful take of a prohibited species and the swan was seized.

Dec. 3 • Troopers responded to a single-vehicle, non-injury crash on Highway 47 around 6:30 p.m. near milepost 55. The vehicle lost control and hit a guard rail then rolled into a ditch. The driver was given a courtesy transport home and the vehicle was towed.

Dec. 4 • Troopers were dispatched to a traffic complaint involving a Ford Mustang passing vehicles in the center lane and speeding on Highway 30 near milepost 17.5. Scappoose Police located and stopped the vehicle and the driver admitted to passing in the center lane and that his driving was reckless in nature.

He was cited and released for reckless driving.

• Troopers responded to a twovehicle injury crash on Highway 30 near Canaan Road. A crash investigation found that a red Honda Accord was driving at a high rate of speed, failed to stop for a stop sign and crashed head on into a gray Honda CRV. Both drivers were cleared by medics with minor injuries and both vehicles were towed.

• Oregon State Police conducted a traffic stop on a white Pontiac in the parking lot of the Road Runner gas station in Scappoose. The driver was suspended misdemeanor level and failed to install an ignition interlock device. He was arrested and transported to the Columbia County Jail and the vehicle was towed.

Dec. 7 • The Oregon State Police responded to a driving complaint eastbound on Highway 30 from milepost 36. A 9111 caller reported a dangerous vehicle speeding and nearly causing a head on crash. Troopers stopped the vehicle on Columbia Boulevard for traffic violations. The driver appeared to have been using marijuana recently and had a concealed loaded handgun in the drivers door and a fictitious license.

The driver was arrested and transported to Columbia County Jail to undertake a blood draw.

He was cited and released for also being in possession of a fictitious driver’s license and minor in possession of marijuana. The vehicle was towed.

Dec. 9 • Troopers stopped a red Toyota for failing to drive in its lane and speeding in Highway 30 near milepost 64. The driver consented to performing standardized field sobriety tests and subsequently arrested for driving under the influence of intoxicants . The driver refused a breath sample but consented to a blood draw and was booked and released from the Columbia County jail.

Dec. 11 • Troopers were dispatched to a hit and run traffic crash on Highway 30 near milepost 51. The suspect vehicle fled the scene and crossed the Longview Bridge into Washington. The victim vehicle sustained minor damage and the reporting party provided a vehicle description and license.

Dec. 12 • Oregon State Police assisted the Columbia County Sheriff’s Office on an assault call that occurred on Fisher Lane in Warren. The victim was collecting cans from a garbage can near public right of way when he was assaulted. He was not injured and did not press

•B lotter • •

charges.

• Oregon State Police took a theft report from an impounded motor vehicle that was impounded by Oregon State Police.

Columbia County Sheriff’s Office were not available at press time.

Dec. 13 • Troopers responded to a single vehicle off the roadway into the ditch on Highway 30 near milepost 67. Upon arrival it was a non-reportable crash and AAA arrived on scene and pulled the vehicle out of the ditch.

Dec. 10 • An officer assisted a disabled motorist on the Rainier Hill.

• A 23-year-old from Longview was taken into custody for suspicion of DUII. • Officers responded to a twovehicle accident on Highway 30 near East Fourth. All occupants of both vehicles were transported with non-life-threatening injuries.

Dec. 14 • Oregon State Police stopped a vehicle eastbound on Highway 30 near milepost 30 for traveling 102 miles per hour in a 50 mile per hour zone and other traffic violations around 10 p.m. Upon contact the driver had indicators of impairment and consented to a sobriety test. The driver was arrested and transported to the Columbia County Jail. The driver’s blood alcohol concentration was 0.00%. The vehicle was towed.

• The Oregon State Police responded to a single vehicle crash at milepost 47 on Highway 47. The vehicle identified as a commercial box van slid off the road causing property damage. No injuries were reported and the vehicle was towed.

• The Oregon State Police responded to a single vehicle rollover eastbound on Highway 30 near milepost 48.5 (Rainier Hill). Upon contact the driver displayed signs of impairment and consented to a sobriety test. The driver was arrested and transported to the Columbia County Jail. The driver’s blood alcohol concentration was 0.00%. The vehicle was towed.

Dec. 29 • The Oregon State Police responded to a two-vehicle crash on Highway 30 and Church Road. The first vehicle entered the highway from Church Road and was struck by the second vehicle. The second vehicle was headed east on Highway 30. Both drivers were transported to the hospital. Passengers from the second vehicle sustained minor injuries. Both vehicles were towed from the scene.

• The Oregon State Police stopped a vehicle westbound on Highway 30 near milepost 31 for traffic violations. The minor driver was in possession of marijuana. The marijuana was seized and citations were issued.

Dec. 31 • An off-duty police officer witnessed a black car swerving and nearly striking two vehicles with varying speeds and called in the complaint. Oregon State Police responded to the traffic complaint and stopped the vehicle on Highway 30 near milepost 23. The driver showed signs of impairment upon contact and consented to a voluntary field sobriety test where the driver continued to show signs of impairment. The driver, a 73-year-old from Columbia City, was arrested for driving under the influence of intoxicants and reckless driving.

• Troopers responded to a single vehicle, non-injury crash on Highway 30 near milepost 49.5.

A 24-year-old from Longview lost control of his vehicle and struck the guardrail and center concrete median causing major front end damage. The driver was uninjured and the vehicle was towed.

Jan. 2 • A citizen reported a found shotgun near the Sauvie Island Wildlife Area’s North Unit parking lot. The shotgun appeared to be forgotten on a bumper when a duck hunter left the parking lot. The owner of the shotgun reported that he had lost it; contact was made, ownership verified and the gun was returned to the owner.

Jan. 3 • A property owner in Rainier reported hearing shots fired while a herd of elk were on his property. An investigation revealed that a 50-year-old Rainier man on an adjacent property had shot a cow elk without a tag close to the property boundaries. Followup was conducted and the suspect was found to be cutting up the illegal animal at his residence. The elk and his rifle were seized and he was cited for unlawful take of an antlerless elk.

• The law enforcement reports from St. Helens Police and the

A3

Rainier Police Department

Dec. 11 • A citizen was concerned about the welfare of a person living in a vehicle. An officer checked on her and she was just fine.

• Officers responded to a verbal disturbance near the liquor store. Peace was restored.

Dec. 12 • A caller reported a suspicious person who had been sleeping near a car port. An officer was able to locate and identify the person; it was confirmed that the individual had active warrants. After being advised that he was being detained, the officer was assisting the subject in removing his backpack.

Once the backpack was off, the subject took off running, leaving the officer holding the bag.

Officers searched the area but were unable to find the man.

The suspect is known to law enforcement.

• Police responded to the was transported to and lodged report of a possible domestic in jail. occurring in the City Hall parking lot. Following the investiga- Dec. 20 tion, a 40-year-old Vancouver • Police took a report of an man was cited and released unknown suspect entered the for harassment and possesvictim’s unlocked vehicle and sion of meth. took the victims work phone.

• Police were dispatched to the This occurred in the 33000 report of a possible DUII in the block of SE Davona Drive. parking lot of Otto Petersen Elementary School. After the Dec. 21 investigation, a 62-year-old • Police took a report of an St. Helens woman was cited unknown suspect entered the and released for driving under victim’s unlocked vehicle but the influence of intoxicants did not take anything. This and possession of a controlled occurred in the 51000 block of substance.

SE Fourth Street.

• Police responded to a non• Police took a report of an injury motor vehicle accident unknown suspect who entered 51000 of SE Second Street. the victim’s unlocked vehicle No citations were issued and but did not take anything. This the drivers exchanged informa- occurred in the 33000 block of tion.

NW Onna Way. • Police were dispatched to the report of a theft in progress at Dec. 23 Fred Meyer, with the suspect • Police were dispatched to in custody of Fred Meyer a non-injury motor vehicle Loss Prevention Employees. accident at the intersection of Following the investigation, a E Columbia Ave. and Highway 25-year-old from Cathlamet, 30. It was reported that a veWash., was taken into custody hicle had hit the railroad light for theft II and an outstanding and crossing arm. Following 01-06-21 Clearance:Layout 1/4/21 12:50the PM driver Page of 1 warrant out3x15D of St.Jan Helens.

She the 1investigation,

a semi-truck was issued a citation for careless driving.

Dec. 24 • Police responded to a noninjury motor vehicle accident involving two cars. It was reported that one driver stated that his vehicle began to slide on the frosty road causing his car to hit a parked car on SW Old Portland Road. The driver was cited for careless driving and the scene was cleared.

Dec. 25 • Police, along with the St. Helens Police Department and the Columbia County Sheriff’s Office, assisted a citizen who was in a mental health crisis.

The subject was eventually transported to a Portland area hospital to get the help they needed.

• Police responded to the report of a theft in the 33000 block of Crown Zellerbach Road. It was reported that a storage unit was broken into and a safe was stolen.

This case is pending further investigation and suspect information.

Dec. 13 • A 29-year-old from Longview, was taken into custody for suspicion of DUII. Dec. 14 • Officers responded to a false alarm at the credit union.

Dec. 16 • A citizen reported that an unknown person picked up his wallet after he accidentally dropped it in the parking lot of Dollar General.

• An officer went to check on the welfare of a local resident.

The individual was fine and said they would contact the concerned party.

Dec. 18 • Several items that were found near the river front were turned in as found property.

• A caller reported observing two young girls walking across the bridge and was concerned that they appeared to be scared. An officer contacted the duo, mother and daughter, who were just walking to the Deli Store.

Dec. 19 • A resident reported that she had two flags from her yard that were taken.

Dec. 21 • A battery was stolen from a vehicle parked on West C Street.

• Tires were slashed on a vehicle that was parked near the Deli Store and More.

• Officers responded to a business alarm. An employee set it off accidentally.

Scappoose Police Department Dec. 11 • Police took a report of a report of a community mailbox that was broken into. This community mailbox has 21 individual mailboxes. This case is pending further suspect information.

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Dec. 14 • Police responded to a noninjury motor vehicle crash that occurred on Highway 30.

Both drivers pulled over to the Scappoose High School parking lot to exchange information. One driver was cited for driving uninsured and the scene was cleared.

Dec. 15 • Police recovered a stolen vehicle in the Fred Meyer parking lot. The owner of the vehicle as contacted and they took possession of the vehicle.

Dec. 18 • Police were dispatched to a driving complaint. It was reported that the vehicle was passing in the center lane and cutting in and out of traffic.

Following the investigation, the driver, a 26-year-old St. Helens man, was issued a citation for following too closely and cited and released for reckless driving.

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Clatskanie Grows: Sink bugs, wheat-less Mondays CHIP BUBL Chief Guest Column

Where did the stink bugs go?

In 2017 and 2018, most of Columbia County was awash in stink bugs. The brown marmorated stink bug first showed up in the Portland metro area in 2008 and expanded its range and population into most of western Oregon within a few years. They were also a serious agricultural pest affecting apples, pears, wine grapes, tomatoes, peppers, hazelnuts and other crops.

They were most obvious when they tried to get into your house in the fall along with box elder bugs. Most of them, like the box elder bugs, don’t get out alive but that is another story. Then in the past summer and fall, their numbers crashed. Reports from the Willamette Valley noted far fewer stink bugs in crops with the possible exception of the Eugene area.

What happened? There are several theories, not mutually exclusive. I visited with one entomologist who thought cool weather in May and early June followed by a very cold October slowed

down their metamorphic cycle which reduced their crop presence and prevented a second generation from maturing. It is that second generation that looks for the coziness of your home.

A second theory is that predators, both foreign and domestic, may be finding them quite tasty. There is good evidence that spiders, the predatory spined stink bug, some beetles, wasps, birds, ants, and even fungal disease are eliminating marmorated stink bugs. But probably the most aggressive predator is the teeny Samurai wasp that lays its eggs in stink bug eggs. This provides a great meal for the developing wasp larva. While not native to the United States, it appears to have traveled from the Orient on ships in the same way marmorated stink bugs got here and was first spotted in Vancouver, Washington. It is now successfully established in western Oregon. Had it not gotten here on its own, there were plans to introduce it from Asia as a bio-control.

Odds are that both weather and predatory biology played a role. We have known that there is an ebb and flow of box elder bugs from year to year. Perhaps marmorated stink bugs will show a cyclic population pattern. But because they cause serious crop loss, there is a lot more energy focused on their life in Oregon and how to best reduce that damage.

Wartime and OSC(U) Extension

Massive and sophisticated collection and transportation systems have to evolve to get the food to the frontlines.

WWI required that foodstuffs be transported across an ocean. The US government created policies that essentially gave them wartime authority over all food movement and sales.

Herbert Hoover was put in charge of the Food Administration.

People were asked to conserve and eat all

their food (clean plates only).

There were wheatless Mondays and porkless Tuesdays. Children signed this pledge: “At the table I will not leave a scrap of food on my plate and I’ll not eat between meals but for suppertime I will wait.”

During the First World War, novel foods came into common usage including

As Napoleon noted, an army rides on its stomach.

War creates a tremendous demand on food resources.

Community remembers Chief Painter Friends, family and community members honored former Rainier Police Chief Ralph Painter with a virtual candlelight memorial on Tuesday, the 10th anniversary of his death. Painter was shot and killed Jan. 5, 2011, while on duty in Rainier.

Painter’s widow Amy posted a Facebook message encouraging people to take part in the candlelight event.

“This is the 10th anniversary of missing our hero,” she wrote. “We really wanted to do something special but with COVID restrictions that isn’t possible, so let’s do it virtually. Please light a candle or do something in remembrance of Ralph.”

Painter said her husband had a love for the community.

“His daily schedule would be to drive around town and talk to people,” she said. “He made a difference in their lives just by the things he said to them. It was how he loved life. He passed that one to others without even knowing it.”

Rainier Mayor Jerry Cole said Painter brightened the community.

“He was really involved and he always had a positive

LANDSLIDE From Page A1 Landslides can take human life. However, even a few inches of slope movement can disrupt septic, sewer and water lines and crack foundations severely damaging or destroying your home, according to the guide.

If you live on or near a steep slope, the guide encourages you to look for warning signs of landslides by evaluating your property for signs of landslide movement. Many, but not all, signs of landslide activity are listed below. A high score may indicate the presence of a landslide.

impact in our community,” Cole said. “While he was the police chief, he was Ralph to us.”

Cole said over the years, community members have remembered Painter on the anniversary by switching on a blue porch light at their homes. Blue is the color used to honor police officers.

Cole said he planned to synchronize his house Christmas lights on the night of Jan. 5 to the song “Spirit in the Sky,” which had been played at Painter’s funeral.

“We always do the porch lights to honor Ralph,” Cole said. “This time I wanted to step that up a bit with the music.”

Cole said he planned to broadcast the song over and over again the night of Jan. 5 on a low radio frequency at 88.5 FM so that people Inside Your Home: • Cracks in walls • Nails popping out of walls • Bulging walls • Separation of chimney from walls • Creaking/popping noises • Light switches coming out of walls • Doors/windows hard to shut • Twisted beams • Cracks in floors • Water seeping into basement Outside Your Home: age

• Changes in surface drain-

• Bulges in retaining walls or tilting of walls

Columbia County’s trusted local news source

driving by could hear the music tribute on their vehicle radios.

“I consider Ralph my friend and I am doing my best to uphold his memory,” Cole said.

Painter said her family appreciates the support from the community.

“I want to thank the community for remembering him 10 years later.” she said.

“It feels like there is more participation than in the past.

We truly appreciate the community support.”

Each summer, the family holds a memorial run at the Rainier Jr./Sr. High School track in honor of Painter.

This past summer’s run was held virtually due to the pandemic. Painter said she is hopeful the run can be held in-person next summer.

Donations for the run help support scholarships for local students continuing their education. Painter said they have raised approximately $40,000 since the run was first held in 2011. Ralph Painter was an avid runner and Amy said the run was established to mark his love for running.

Donations to support the memorial run can be made at ralphpainterrun@gmail.com.

• Cracks developing in the soil • Pistol-butted or bent trees • Broken water, utility, or sewer lines • Cracks in sidewalks or foundation • Stretched or leaning utility lines The guide also recommends actions property owners can take to reduce the chances of landslides, which include: • Draining water from surface runoff, downspouts, and driveways well away from slopes.

• Planting native ground cover on slopes.

• Consulting with a professional before significantly altering existing slopes uphill or downslope of your home.

sugarless candy, dogfish, and horsemeat steaks. “Liberty” gardens were encouraged and even President Wilson grazed sheep on the White house lawns. There were some great posters put out in support of these food management efforts which are available online.

WWII brought the Victory gardens. People in rural and urban areas worked the soil to raise food for their families, friends, and

Clatskanie Grows

neighbors.

Victory gardening enabled more food to be shipped to troops around the world. Empty lots, school fields, flower gardens, and back yards were cultivated. For an investment of $1.30 in seeds, $1.50 for fertilizer and 7-8 hours/week tending the garden, a family could have fresh vegetables for 5-6 months. LIFE magazine estimated that by 1943, 6 million Americans were planting Victory gardens.

Public schools had victory gardens. By 1945, 20 million Victory gardens were producing 40% of all American vegetables.

Records in the Columbia County Extension office for the WWII years, offer lots of evidence of war efforts:

•

Victory gardens and home canning were widely encouraged, though I could find no specific numbers.

Housewives could send tin cans with candy, fruitcakes, and the like, to GIs overseas.

This processing was done at the Extension office for the sum of 3 cents per can and was overseen by Mrs. Eric Zatterberg. Women’s roles also changed dramatically reported Maude Causwell, Extension Home Economist of the time.

The WWII era Columbia County Extension agent had many roles including: • Increase food production by utilizing the best tools and growing techniques. Encourage Victory gardens. Encourage reuse, and recycling.

• A special agent (Ken Asburry) was hired to manage farm labor. He was in charge of allocating farm workers to the most important activities be it haying, fruit or vegetable harvest, tilling or planting throughout the county.

• Finally, the County Agricultural agent was responsible for staffing an aircraft surveillance facility in Yankton that looked much like a forest fire watchtower.

Have questions?

If you have questions on

any of these topics or other home garden and/or farm questions, please contact Chip Bubl, Oregon State University Extension office in St. Helens at 503-397-3462 or at chip.bubl@oregonstate.edu.

Free newsletter The Oregon State University Extension office in Columbia County publishes a monthly newsletter on gardening and farming topics (called County Living) written/edited by yours truly.

All you need to do is ask for it and it will be mailed or emailed to you. Call 503397-3462 to be put on the list. Alternatively, you can find it on the web at extension.oregonstate.edu/columbia and click on newslet-ters.

Many Extension publications available online Are you putting up salsa, saving seeds, or thinking about planting grapes? OSU has a large number of its publications available for free download. Just go to catalog. extension.oregonstate.edu.

Click on publications and start exploring.

The Extension Service offers its programs and materials equally to all people.

Contact information for the Extension office Oregon State University Extension Service – Columbia County Address: 505 N. Columbia River Highway St. Helens, OR 97051 Phone: 503 397-3462 Email: chip.bubl@oregonstate.edu

•O bituaries • • Charles Eugene Elliott Aug. 1, 1933 ~ Dec. 24, 2020

Charles Eugene Elliott, 87, passed away Dec. 24, 2020 at Community Home Health and Hospice. His parents were Harold and Hazel Elliott.

He graduated from Battleground High School in 1950 and served in the Air Force from 1952-1956 at Stewart AFB in Newburgh, NY. He married Diana Rosalie Sylvester June 23, 1958. They moved to Rainier, Oregon in 1964. He went to work as a Teamster on construction of the Wauna Mill. He then worked at the mill until his retirement in 1995.

After Diana retired in 1996, they went to Alaska for three months. They lived on Erickson Dike road for 46 years where they had a small

dairy and raised calves and llamas for many years. They made many memories with family and grandchildren who loved visiting the farm.

For the past 20 years they have lived in the Mayger

area.

Chuck was a kind and gentle man who loved spending time with family and friends. He will be greatly missed by those who knew and loved him.

He is survived by his wife Diana Elliott; four children, Deana, Vern and Wayne Elliott, and Lori Jaquez; seven grandchildren; four great grandchildren; sister-in-law Sharon Sylvester; and nieces and nephews.

He is preceded in death by his parents, Harold and Hazel Elliott; brother and sister-in-law, Jack and Eileen Elliott; brother-in-law Gary Sylvester; and niece Anita Elliott.

At his wish there will be no service.

Lillian Palm

March 17, 1939 ~ Dec. 26, 2020

Lillian Hazel Palm, a lifelong resident of the Clatskanie area on Palm Hill Road, passed away Saturday, December 26th, at the age of 81.

She was born in Clatskanie on March 17, 1939 to parents John Adolph Palm and Wieno Hazel Matilla, Lillian spent her early years working on the family farm with her five brothers. Upon graduating from Clatskanie High School in 1957 Lillian started her professional career in Portland working in banking. Lillian returned to Clatskanie in the early 80’s to assist in the care of her Mother Wieno. Lillian spent her later life maintaining the family homestead on Palm Hill Road, gardening, hunting, and taking care of wayward

animals.

A service will be held at noon on Jan. 9, 2021 at Groulx Family Mortuary with Pastor Berry of the Assembly of God Church officiating. Masks are required and social distancing will be observed. Viewing is

from 9 a.m. – noon. Interment following in Murray Hill Cemetery, Clatskanie.

In lieu of flowers the family suggests making a donation to your local Meals on Wheels program or any other senior support service in your area.

Wednesday, January 8, 2021

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Knowledge and Skills: Strong administrative skills, recreational aquatic programming skills, leadership and managerial skills, pool maintenance and water chemistry skills and good public relation skills are a must. Thorough knowledge of policies, procedures and equipment used in daily outdoor pool operations helpful. Work with pool related chemicals and be familiar with State and Federal regulations regarding outdoor pool operations.

Experience and Training: Experience pre-

ferred. Or the willingness to work within an agreed upon time frame between applicant and Board of Directors to obtain the required and suggested certifications for the position; First-Aid, CPR, AED certifications, Lifeguard Instructor and Training, Water Safety Instructor and CPO (Certified Pool Operator) certifications. You can pick an application at: 365 S Nehalem St, Clatskanie OR (offices of Dennis R. Conner, CPA) Or you can request an application by phone at 503728-2038 or by email at cyndi@ dconnercpa.com.

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Public Notices PROTECTING YOUR RIGHT TO KNOW

CC20-1352

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE STATE OF OREGON FOR THE COUNTY OF COLUMBIA Probate Department In the Matter of the Estate of NEVA JUNE WIESSENFLUH, Deceased. No. 20PB08310 NOTICE TO INTERESTED PERSONS. NOTICE IS HERERBY GIVEN that the undersigned has been appointed personal representative of this estate.

All persons having claims

against the estate are required to present their claims, with vouchers attached, within four months after the date of first publication of this notice to the personal representative at P.O. Box 459, Rainier, OR 97048, 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 attorney for the personal representative. Dated and first published December 25, 2020. Steven Weissenfluh, Personal Representative.

STEPHEN D. PETERSEN, L.L.C. Attorney at Law, P.O. Box 459, Rainier, OR 97048.

CC20-1354

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE STATE OF OREGON FOR THE COUNTY OF COLUMBIA Probate Department In the Matter of the Estate of MAXINE MASSEY, Deceased. No. 20PB08073 NOTICE TO INTERESTED PERSONS NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the undersigned has been appointed personal representative of this estate. All persons having claims against

the estate are required to present their claims, with vouchers attached, within four months after the date of first publication of this notice to the personal representative at P. O. Box 459, Rainier, OR 97048, 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 attorney for the personal representative. Dated and first published January 1, 2021.

Homer W. Massey, Personal Representative. STEPHEN D. PETERSEN, L.L.C Attorney at Law, P.O. Box 459, Rainier, OR 97048.

CC21-1359

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE STATE OF OREGON FOR THE COUNTY OF COLUMBIA Probate Department In the Matter of the Estate of DARLENE T. REA, Deceased. No. 20PB08820 NOTICE TO INTERESTED PERSONS. NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the undersigned has been appointed personal representative of this estate. All persons having claims against

the estate are required to present their claims, with vouchers attached, within four months after the date of first publication of this notice to the personal representative at P.O. Box 459, Rainier, OR 97048, 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 attorney for the personal representative. Dated and first published January 8, 2021. Kerry D. Rea, Personal Representative, STEPHEN D. PETERSEN, L.L.C., Attorney at Law, P.O. Box 459, Rainier, OR 97048.

CC20-1356

NOTICE OF WORKSHOP A workshop of the Clatskanie Rural Fire Protection District board of directors will be held on, Wednesday, January 13, 2021 at 6:00pm (before the regular monthly meeting)

via GoToMeeting unless the Stay At Home Order restrictions have been lifted, then the meeting will be held at 555 SW Bryant St, Clatskanie, OR, Port of Columbia County Offices (the

Old Middle School); the purpose of this workshop will be to discuss updates on the District’s stations.

No public comment and no action will be taken at this workshop.

CC20-1355

NOTICE OF MEETING The regular meeting of the Clatskanie Rural Fire Protection District board of directors will be held on, Wednesday, January 13, 2021 at 7:00 via GoToMeeting unless the Stay At Home Order restrictions

have been lifted, then the meeting will be held at 555 SW Bryant St, Clatskanie, OR, Port of Columbia County Offices (the Old Middle School). ANY AND ALL SOCIAL DISTANCING

CC21-1360

CC21-1362

NOTICE OF BOARD MEETING The Board of Directors for Clatskanie School District 6J will hold a Board meeting, Monday, January 11, 2021, 6:30 p.m. via Zoom. Please see our website at www.csd.k12.or.us on the main page for directions

RULESIN PLACE AT THE TIME OF THE MEETING WILL BE APPLIED. Items on the agenda, but not limited to: Updates on daily Fire and EMS operations. Board President, Robert Keyser

to join the meeting. The agenda includes but is not limited to: Superintendent and Principal’s reports, Budget update, financial report and the consent agenda.

The public is encouraged to attend.

CC20-1357

NOTICE OF MEETING The Rainier School Board will hold a special board meeting virtually Monday, January 11 at 6:30 p.m. Live Stream available on the district website.

CC21-1361

NOTICE OF MEETING NOTICE OF The regular meeting of the Rainier Cemetery District will be held on Monday, January 18, 2021 at 5:00pm at the Rainier Cemetery Office, 24952 Alston Rd, Rainier, OR. Items on the agenda include, but are not

limited to: Monthly updates on cemetery operations. ALL SOCIAL DISTANCING RULES IN PLACE AT THE TIME OF THE MEETING WILL BE STRICTLY FOLLOWED. Janice Carstensen, Board Chairman

The Public Notice deadline is Wednesdays by noon.

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

MONTHLY MEETING

The Clatskanie Library District Board of Directors will hold a regular monthly meeting at 7:00 pm on Tuesday, January 12, 2021 virtually via GoToMeeting.

The virtual meeting link and agenda will be posted on the library’s website events calendar. Items on the agenda include but are not limited to the following: approval financials and library activity updates.

LET US KNOW WHAT YOU THINK. EMAIL YOUR LETTERS TO: CHIEFNEWS@COUNTRYMEDIA.NET Columbia County’s trusted local news source

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Wednesday, January 8, 2021

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What the GDP means for Columbia County ERIK KNODER Chronicle Guest Article

Editor’s note: Real estate sales are a key economic indicator in Columbia County.

In the following report, Oregon Employment Regional Economist Erik Knoder outlines how real estate sales have helped move the county ahead.

Northwest Oregon’s recovery from the Great Recession was uneven.

Employment grew faster in Benton and Clatsop counties and lagged in Columbia and Lincoln counties. Tillamook County’s employment growth was in between these two groups.

The change in gross domestic product of the counties seems to have followed roughly the same general pattern for four counties, but GDP for Tillamook County is estimated to have grown much faster than any of the other counties.

The Bureau of Economic Analysis (BEA) makes estimates of county-level gross domestic product. Gross Domestic Product (GDP) is the value of goods and services produced in an area.

Columbia County

during the recovery from the Great Recession. Its GDP growth was 4.3% from 2018 to 2019 as its economy continued more normal growth before the pandemic.

Clatsop County’s GDP grew by $762 million over the 10 years, which yielded total inflation-adjusted growth of 24.7% over that period. The county’s growth from 2018 to 2019 came primarily from its private-sector service industries.

Clatsop County’s real estate industry provided the most to the county’s GDP growth followed by health care and manufacturing.

Clatsop County had the largest net change (+$76.4 million) in GDP of the five counties in Northwest Oregon from 2018 to 2019.

Columbia County have had more modest GDP growth during the recovery from the Great Recession.

Columbia County’s GDP fell in the years after the Great Recession before rebounding strongly in 2015. It increased 4.7% in 2019, but has grown by only 15.1% in real terms since 2009. Services, especially real estate, powered its GDP growth, and the goodsproducing industries actually declined slightly from 2018 to 2019.

Benton County The BEA’s estimates show that Benton County’s GDP grew by nearly $1.3 billion dollars from 2009 through 2019. After adjusting for inflation this resulted in real growth of just over 18%.

Benton County’s employment passed its pre-recession high in 2012, so was on a strong growth path for years until the pandemic. Benton County provided 41% of the region’s $12.1 billion GDP in 2019.

Despite a large public sector Benton County’s recent GDP growth came from the private sector. The government’s contribution to GDP

Lincoln County

Metro Creative Connection / The Chief

Services, especially real estate, in Columbia County powered the GDP growth, and the goods-producing industries actually declined slightly from 2018 to 2019.

actually fell slightly. The county’s GDP grew by 1.5% from 2018 to 2019. Manufacturing was the single-largest contributor to growth, followed by real estate.

Structure Fire

Clatsop County’s employment also passed its pre-recession high in 2012 and had solid GDP growth

Courtesy photo from CRFR

Tillamook County Tillamook County has the smallest GDP in the region, but it has led the pack for GDP growth (33.6%) since 2009. Its GDP grew by 6.4% in 2019.

Most of Tillamook County’s GDP growth in 2019 came from real estate, with additional growth from natural resources. Health care and government also contributed a share to GDP growth. Manufacturing was nearly unchanged over the year. Although the county has the smallest GDP in the Northwest region, its growth led to it producing the second-largest absolute gain (+$69.4 million) in GDP among the five counties.

Pretty impressive.

Erik Knoder is a regional economist with the Oregon Employment Department. He may be reached at 541-3515595.

Police release sketch of child STAFF REPORT chroniclenews@countrymedia.net

Firefighters from Columbia River Fire & Rescue (CRFR) and Clatskanie Fire work to extinguish this shop fire on private property on Old Rainier Road Friday night, Jan. 1. No injuries were reported. The cause and estimated amount of damage was not immediately available.

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Clatsop County

Lincoln County also saw more modest GDP growth during the recovery from the Great Recession. Lincoln County’s GDP fell six out of seven years from 2006 through 2013. In inflationadjusted terms it took until 2016 for the county’s GDP to surpass the level it first reached in 2006. GDP has grown since then, including a gain of 3.8% in 2019.

Lincoln County’s growth was mostly provided by service industries with real estate being the leading contributor to growth by far and retail trade also contributing.

Manufacturing and the other goods-producing industries had weak growth in 2019.

Oregon State Police (OSP) have released new details in the agency’s investigation of the human remains of a child discovered in rural Lincoln County on Dec. 10.

OSP released what the agency called an approximation sketch of the child on Monday. Detectives are seeking the public’s assistance in identifying the remains of the child.

On Dec. 10, investigators were summoned to the H.B. Van Duzer Forest State Scenic Corridor in Otis for a death investigation. At the location, investigators found the remains of a female child in a heav-

Sketch courtesy of OSP

Investigators are hopeful someone can recognize this sketch of a child whose remains were found in early December in rural Lincoln County.

ily wooded area. Due to the terrain OSP detectives were assisted by Lincoln County search and rescue members.

The Oregon State Medical Examiner’s Office estimates the deceased’s age to be 6.5 to 10 years old. She is approximately 3’10” to 4’6” tall, and had long hair that is dark brown or black. Her race or ethnic origin has yet to be determined, and DNA analysis is not complete, OSP said.

Due to the condition of the remains, investigators believe the child had likely been deceased for at least 30 days before she was discovered.

Detectives have not released details about the cause or the manner of the child’s death.

If you have any information that might help investigators in identifying this child, please call 800-442-0776 or *OSP (*677).