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FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 11, 2022

VOL. 130, NO. 40 Serving the Lower Columbia Region since 1891

Just 1 year ago!

Chief photo

Several inches of snow accumulated across Columbia County one year ago this week, challenging drivers along Highway 30. The National Weather Service is forecasting sunbreaks, showers and temperatures in the 50’s during the days, the upper 30’s at night through this next week in the region.

County approves bio fuels plant land permits JEREMY C. RUARK jruark@countrymedia.net

The Columbia County Board of Commissioners has unanimously approved local land use permits for NEXT Renewable Fuels’ $2 billion clean fuels project.

The action came during the Columbia County Board of Commissioner’s regular meeting Wednesday, Feb. 9 in St. Helens.

The permit approval allows NEXT to build a renewable diesel facility at Port Westward that company officials said will reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 7 million tons each year and significantly reduce toxic emissions from vehicles that disproportionately impact high density urban environments.

“We are ecstatic that the Board of Commissioners approved our permits,” NEXT Chairman and CEO Chris Efird said. “With these

key local permits, we move another step closer to construction. We are grateful for the outpouring of supportive comments from local community leaders and environmental experts.”

The Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife (ODFW) also stated its approval of the project.

“The department believes this proposed renewable energy project is sited appropriately, and it is consistent with the department’s climate goals,” ODFW Regional Wildlife Conservation Biologist Susan Barnes said.

NEXT officials said the renewable diesel facility would be a cornerstone investment in making Oregon’s clean fuel goals a reality.

“Renewable diesel is 60-80 percent cleaner than traditional petroleum diesel and because it is chemically identical to petroleum diesel, it can be used in current diesel fleets without any vehicle modifications,” NEXT said in a

release. “Renewable diesel is made by converting recycled organic material, like cooking oil, into fuel and it costs the same at the pump.”

Clatskanie City Manager Greg Hinkelman said The NEXT project will meet a rapidly growing demand for clean, renewable fuels in the United States and will benefit the local community.

“The City of Clatskanie will benefit greatly from (the plant) locating near our community,” Hinkelman said. “Our residents will find new work. Our taxing districts will get a new source of sustainable funding. Our local environment will thrive.”

Estimates provided by NEXT show the facility would generate more than $16 million in annual tax revenue to Columbia County.

Tax revenues could be used for public safety, libraries, veterans’ programs or other county services.

The facility will create more than 3,500 green jobs during construc-

Courtesy photo

The $2 billion NEXT Renewable Fuels plant is proposed for Port Westward at Clatskanie.

tion and more than 240 permanent green jobs during operation. An independent study anticipates that the majority of work will be filled

by Oregonians, according to Efird, who emphasized a corporate focus on hiring locally first.

“NEXT has committed to restoring more than 450 acres of wetlands,” Clatskanie School District ­­­­ See NEXT Page A4

Masks off no later than March 31

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March 31 is the expected end date of the state’s indoor mask mandate.

ZOE GOTTLIEB chronicle2@countrymedia.net

Oregonians can now mark off their calendars in preparation for the end of the statewide indoor

Obituaries ................. A4 Police Blotters...........A4 Classified Ads ......... A5 Legals ....................... A5 Valentine Edition .. A6-7

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

mask mandate.

Oregon will remove general mask requirements for indoor public places and schools no later than March 31, state health officials announced Monday. The decision to impose mask requirements will then be left up to businesses to decide.

The Oregon Health Authority’s (OHA) announcement follows news of stabilizing Omicron cases and overall COVID-19 cases plummeting by 40% over the past week across the state.

By late March, public health officials predict there will be 400 or fewer Oregonians hospitalized with COVID-19, a figure that hearkens back to the days before the rapid spread of the highly contagious Omicron variant.

Additionally, state health data indicates COVID-19 hospitalizations have not topped the 1,178 high point of the Delta surge, despite projections that Omicron hospitalizations could double the number of patients hospitalized, according to Oregon Health and Science University (OHSU).

State health officials say Oregon needs to keep mask requirements in place for now as COVID-19 hospitalizations crest and Oregon’s health care system strains to treat high numbers of severely ill patients.

Current models show hospitalizations peaking at 1,169 and then declining throughout February and March as infections slow, according to the OHA. However, health officials cautioned that the state’s emergence from the Omicron surge depends on Oregonians sustaining effective prevention measures in the coming weeks.

State Epidemiologist Dr. Dean Sidelinger said, “We’re likely to see as many cases on the way down from the Omicron peak as we saw on the way up. That means we need to keep taking steps to prevent more hospitalizations and deaths.”

“The way Oregon handled Omicron is almost as good as you’re going to see,” Director of the OHSU Office of Advanced Analytics Dr. Peter Graven, Ph.D., said.

“Oregon pushed out booster shots, Oregonians modified their behavior ­­­­ See MANDATE Page A3

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Both Gov. Kate Brown and Oregon Senate Republican Leader Tim Knopp are calling for the state to use the excess revenue to make critical investments.

Revenue forecast shows Oregon kicker now at $964 million JEREMY C. RUARK jruark@countrymedia.net

The latest Oregon Revenue forecast signals a promising economic outlook.

The current forecast projects a Personal Income Tax Kicker credit of $964 million and a Corporate Kicker of $634 million.

The kicker tax credit goes into effect when the actual state revenue exceeds the forecasted revenue by at least 2%. An amount is then returned to the taxpayers through a credit on their tax returns.

Overall, gross General Fund revenues have doubled since the Great Recession and took a big step up after the pandemic hit. Revenue growth has continued, even as large kicker credits have been paid out, according to the forecast summary released Wednesday morning, Feb. 9, by the Oregon Department of Administrative Services.

“Today, households are flush with cash and rising wealth,” the summary reads. “Consumers have the ability ­­­­

ColumbiaCountyOR.Gov/Vaccine | 503-397-7247

See REVENUE Page A4

www.thechiefnews.com

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Friday, February 11, 2022

Building dreams, one house at a time

Courtesy photo

Andrea Hulin and her children stand proud in the framing of their new home on South 8th Street in St. Helens.

JEREMY C. RUARK jruark@countrymedia.net

It’s an annual Columbia County project called ‘Walls Up.’ But over the past two years, the COVID-19 pandemic has forced Columbia County Habitat for Humanity to cancel the volunteer home building. The ‘Walls Up’ refers to constructing a new home for families that qualify for the nonprofit group’s assistance.

Such a ‘Walls Up’ project occurred on Saturday, Feb. 5 on South 8th Street in St. Helens.

To gain insight into such community efforts, The Chief reached out to Columbia County Habitat for Humanity’s (CCHFH) Executive Director Jennifer Anderson.

The Chief: What impact has the pandemic had on your group’s efforts over the past two years?

Jennifer Anderson: The pandemic impacted our organization in many ways.

Initially, we closed the Restore completely for several months. Reopening fully did not happen for another six months because we felt we needed to quarantine the

donations for a period of time. Many of our ReStore volunteers are seniors and some of them did not want to volunteer anymore for fear of being exposed to COVID. We really struggled to have enough volunteers to keep the store running. On the construction side, we were not able to have large groups of volunteers, there were sharp increases in the price of lumber and supply chain issues, especially with appliances. Some of these issues continue especially on the construction side. I want to thank Paul and Wela at Columbia Economic Team who really worked overtime to get information and resources out to struggling businesses and nonprofits.

The Chief: What is the vision of the project on South 8th Street in St. Helens and why that location?

Anderson: We build wherever we can buy inexpensive land. The home we are building as well as the last two homes are on a distressed property we acquired from an estate. I love that we are taking a property that was an eyesore and a problem for the neighborhood and providing stable afford-

able homes for hardworking people that really appreciate the opportunity.

The Chief: When did the CCHFH start, why and how many projects has the group completed?

Anderson: CCHFH was formed in 1999 as a grass roots organization by folks from Scappoose, St. Helens, Columbia City, Rainier, Clatskanie and Vernonia that were inspired by the housing model of using volunteers and community support to help people in need. We sent an application to Habitat for Humanity International and were approved. CCHFH is independently incorporated and is not funded by the International organization.

We are working on our 12th home and have completed 37 critical home repairs which include exterior home repairs and ramps.

The Chief: Specifically describe the work that the local chapter conducts.

Anderson: CCHFH is managed individually with guidance from Habitat for Humanity International.

We process all applications, assist with loan origina-

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The South 8th Street Habitat for Humanity volunteers.

tion and down payment assistance, raise funds and recruit volunteers, acquire land and build or work with low income homeowners to make their homes safe and accessible. We also recently incorporated the Oregon Individual Development Account (IDA) into our services. Low income families and individuals can set up savings accounts for home purchases or repairs that are matched by the State of Oregon.

On the ReStore side we take in donated home furnishings and building materials which diverts approximately 180 tons of material from the landfill annually.

We recycle metal and sell reprocessed paint. We offer opportunities for community service, basic job training skills and a place for seniors to connect. Our volunteers are fantastic. We could not run the store without them and they are so friendly to customers and each other. I love the sense of community.

The Chief: How do you select the families to be connected to the housing projects?

Anderson: We build for people with household

income between 35 and 60 percent of the median income. The families we select need to be able to pay an affordable mortgage, have decent credit and low debt.

Some families have tried buying homes previously, but never qualify for enough.

Habitat for Humanity makes it possible. Once we have a qualified pool of applicants, we select the family with the most need. Each family is required to contribute 400 hours of sweat equity which includes financial education.

It is a lot of work, but very rewarding to the families willing to take on the challenge.

The Chief: How are the projects funded?

Anderson: About half our funds come from the ReStore. Individual donors, churches, grants and the proceeds from affordable mortgages help fill in the gap.

Donated building materials and help from the City on fees are always appreciated.

The Chief: What do you take away from these projects?

Anderson: Throughout this process we really get

to know the families. It is inspiring to hear about their struggles and watch them succeed! The transformation is amazing. Housing is such a basic need that having stable, affordable housing allows people to pursue other goals whether it be saving for retirement or pursuing higher education.

New homeowner Andrea Hulin also shared her insight with The Chief into what the volunteer project means to her family.

“It means new beginnings, a fresh start,” Hulin said. “A place for the kids and I to call home. Having this opportunity means the world to us. Getting chosen as the partner family for habitat, has opened doors, I don’t know if I would’ve been able to open without their help and support. We’re so blessed to be chosen, and excited to start a new chapter of our lives. Building our own home is so much fun, and the people I have met through habitat are amazing.

Oscar, Lucy and I are ready for this next adventure.”

For more information about Columbia County Habitat for Humanity, visit info@habitatcolumbiacounty.org.

Brown delivers final State of the State JEREMY C. RUARK jruark@countrymedia.net

organizations and industries supporting technical and health care training, she said.

Brown’s plan includes $100 million to expand child care access and an additional $400 million investment in affordable housing.

According to Brown, in Oregon on any given night there more than 15,000 people who remain without a home and more than half of those people are living unsheltered.

“In every tent you see – in a city park, under a highway overpass, along a river – is a person – a person who deserves a warm, safe, dry place to call home,” she said.

Brown also said the state must address the intersection of housing and health needs.

“Expanding access to behavioral health services and substance use disorder prevention, treatment, and recovery is critical,” she said.

While she is encouraged by the advancements Oregon

has made to address climate change, more must be done the governor said.

“Climate change is a hammer hitting us in the head,” she said. “We must act now, decisively, to lower carbon emissions, transition to clean energy sources, and ensure a just transition for our historically-underserved communities.”

Brown ended her speech with a passionate plea to those that will follow.

“Find the opportunity, even in times of crisis. Especially, in times of crisis,” she said. “That’s how we continue on this journey of transformational change for Oregon. That’s how we pursue justice. That’s how we heal divides and collaborate in ways that serve our state. That’s how we honor this beautiful place we call home.”

During a passionate electronic address to the Oregon Legislature, Gov. Kate Brown said her legislative priorities for the short February session include helping working families by expanding workforce opportunities, affordable housing and child care.

Brown will leave office at the end of the year due to the state’s term limits. She has served as governor since Feb. 2015.

“I stand here today at a pivotal moment for Oregon,” Brown said. “Since I took office seven years ago, the world has fundamentally changed. Oregon has undoubtedly faced some of the most challenging times in our state’s history. However, even with all we’ve lost, we can see a path forward.”

Read the full State of the During her final State of State address attached to this the State address on Thursstory at thechiefnews.com. day, Feb. 3, Brown said the COVID-19 pandemic has been devastating, but Or• rossword olutions • egon’s economy is strong.

“In my last year as Governor, I view every day, Solution for the Feb. 4, 2021 crossword puzzle every moment, as one more opportunity to focus on the big and bold work we still have to do for Oregon’s working families,” she said.

Brown outlined her $200 million Future Ready Oregon platform as a three-part effort dedicated to building a strong Oregon workforce by providing access to child care, “so that parents that work can go to work knowing that their kids are cared for,” she said.

Brown said her plan will surge an immediate $92 million to programs currently working, such as Constructing Hope, which helps Oregonians get back on their feet with no-cost construction training and career advancement. Innovation will be boosted through flexible grants to community-based Columbia County’s trusted local news source

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Courtesy photo from Gov. Kate Brown’s Office

“I stand here today at a pivotal moment for Oregon,” Gov. Kate Brown said during her final State of the State address.

Tactical Ordnance Gun Show Columbia County Fairgrounds, Pavilion Bld. 58892 Saulser Rd, St. Helens, OR Saturday Feb. 12, 9am - 5pm Sunday, Feb. 13, 9am - 3pm Door Prizes, Raffle, Ammo, Brass, Reloading Equipment, Outdoor Supplies, Knives, Custom T-Shirts & Sweatshirts, Optics, Parts, Air Rifles, and of course... FIREARMS! We are a ‘Family Friendly Event’ welcoming all ages to our shows! Admission $8. Children 12 and under, free with Accompanying Adult.

Questions: Please Call Our Show Manager, Julie: 253-381-6686

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Friday, February 11, 2022

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Recovery grants total $500k

Metro Creative Connection

Eighty-five organizations received funding awards, including 29 nonprofits.

STAFF REPORT chiefnews@countrymedia.net

Columbia County has distributed $500,000 in grants to businesses and nonprofit organizations to assist with recovery and resilience in response to economic impacts from the COVID-19 pandemic.

Columbia County, in partnership with the Columbia Economic Team (CET), has completed distribution of the grants, funded by the federal Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act, received by the county when it was identified as highrisk last summer.

In September, the county chose to contract with CET again to administer the grant application and disbursement process. The commissioners directed CET and county staff to concentrate on making the program more accessible to

MANDATE From Page A1

early, before Omicron fully arrived here, and we kept our masking rates relatively high compared with other states.”

“Because of that, our surge was way lower than other places on a per-capita basis.”

State health officials said they would consider lifting the general indoor mask requirement earlier than March 31, if hospitalizations decline to the levels projected by the end of March sooner than expected.

School masking State health officials said they will work with the Oregon Department of Education (ODE) over the coming weeks to ensure schools can continue operating safely and keep students in class once the school mask requirements are lifted.

The end-of-march date will also give schools the time to pivot in their COVID-19 mitigation strategies, according to the OHA. Clatskanie School Superintendent Cathy Hurowitz said the OHA’s announcement provides the district the opportunity to begin preparing the schools for the transition to optional mask use by students and staff.

“Our Board of Directors, before the mask mandates were enacted, agreed to a mask optional policy,” she said. “Based on previous Board action and the information released by the OHA, pending no further countylevel mandates from the local public health authority, we will move forward considering an optional mask rule effective March 31, 2022.”

Hurowitz said the Clatskanie School District will work closely with Columbia County Public Health (CCPH) as the state moves forward.

“As we work through this next chapter student and staff safety will be a priority,” she said.

Hurowitz said the district’s next steps include: • District administration team to discuss options • Meeting with both heads of classified and certified associations to discuss and develop an implementation plan.

• Ask families for their input regarding a mask optional policy.

• Planning for safety with the school nurse and Columbia County Health director.

The Clatskanie School Board is expected to review the mask policies at its March public meeting.

nonprofit organizations that were ineligible for most of the $1.9 million in grants CET distributed last year.

As a direct result of modified program guidelines and application criteria, a major marketing push, and targeted communications, nearly double the number of nonprofit organizations applied for and received grants this year.

Including these latest 2021 grants, nearly $2.5 million in small business and organizational grants has been administered by Columbia Economic Team in 2020 and 2021, nearly $1.5 million from the Board of Commissioners.

The CET processed a total of 102 applications, many of which were submitted by new applicants. In addition to helping eligible organizations successfully complete the application process, CET spent numerous hours working with the county’s Board, Counsel, The Chief also reached out to the Rainier School District Superintendent Joseph Hattrick to gain insight into the school district’s mask policy moving forward.

“While the announcement from the state was very exciting, there is much still left to plan,” he said. “There are many factors that will impact the district’s ability to no longer require masks because of the implications this may have on transportation, staffing, and quarantines. While the district is eager to return to normal, we will be working with our county health department and others at the state level to solve some of the challenges that we will encounter.”

During the Monday, Feb. 7 school board meeting, Hattrick identified some of the underlying problems with blanket policies aimed at lifting mask requirements in an address to his fellow board members.

“I hate to be the bearer of bad news, but it’s not as simple as it looks,” he said.

According to Hattrick, there are several components the district must consider in removing requirements for facial coverings in classrooms.

One such consideration, Hattrick stressed, is the potential for lifting mask requirements to incidentally reveal the identities of school district employees who obtained religious or medical exemptions to the COVID-19 vaccine.

Another cause for concern is the level of vaccination among students, and how changing guidance could result in “far more quarantines, contact tracing, and isolation,” he said.

While other K-12 schools were quick to adopt test-tostay programs in response to guidance from the OHA and the Oregon Department of Education (ODE), Hattrick previously remarked that such an adaptation would be unfeasible for the school district, due to low vaccination rates and mask noncompliance.

“They (OHA) give us just enough hope,” Hattrick said.

“But that puts school districts in the line of fire.”

The state’s indoor mask mandate was first instituted shortly after the COVID-19 outbreak in 2020, followed by a brief remittance period in June. Oregon Gov. Kate Brown’s Office reinstated the mandate on Aug. 27, 2021 which was scheduled to remain in place until Feb. 8, 2022.

In the meantime, health experts strongly recommend high-risk individuals continue wearing masks in indoor public settings after mask requirements are lifted, including people who are:

and Finance Department to ensure that the available funds were distributed by the December 31 deadline.

Of the 85 organizations that received funding awards: 56 are small businesses, 40 of which are women-owned companies, and 29 are nonprofits.

Nonprofits received a total of $271,950 and $222,950 was distributed to small business recipients. The allocations were based on “human” resources: employee or volunteer counts for businesses and nonprofits, respectively.

CET Executive Director Paul Vogel reported completion of the grant process to the Columbia County Board of Commissioners, stating that the economic impacts of the pandemic have affected everyone.

“Nonprofits, however, have been hit with a triple- and maybe quadruple- whammy,” Vogel said. “The necessary lockdowns, restrictions, and distancing affected them too, donations and funding from financially struggling supporters took a hit, the economic impacts caused a dramatic increase in the need for their services, and in large part they weren’t eligible for most COVID-related grants.”

Vogel also thanked the commissioners for their focus on the community’s nonprofits.

“These organizations, their services, and their place in our communities are vital,” Vogel said. “The Commissioners’ very intentional effort to assist them generated significant response and produced substantial results.”

• Unvaccinated • Immunocompromised • At high risk of COVID-19 hospitalizations, including those with underlying health conditions and those 65 and older • Living with people at high risk

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According to the grant requirements households facing service disconnection are eligible for a crisis payment.

‘A fundamental’ Rainier to provide low-income water assistance ZOE GOTTLIEB chronicle2@countrymedia.net

Low-income water assistance is now available to every Rainier household after city councilors approved a vendor agreement between Community Action Team (CAT) and Oregon Housing and Community Services (OHCS).

During the Monday, Feb. 7 Rainier City Council meeting, Council President Mike Kreger moved to approve the agreement between the city and CAT for water bill assistance, which was adopted unanimously by the council.

The Low-Income Household Water Assistance Program (LIHWAP), a federal grant, provides funding to subgrantees and local Community Action Agencies to assist low-income households with water and wastewater bills.

The grant funding program was implemented on Oct. 4, 2021 and provides utility bill relief to households across Oregon.

Columbia County residents who make 60% or less of the state’s median income are eligible for a one-time crisis payment between $100 and $1,000, according to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services.

Income, household size, household drinking water burden, and household wastewater burden are all factors OHCS, the grant recipient, considers in allocating relief funds.

A statement of need for the grant program reads in part as follows.

“Access to safe and affordable drinking water and wastewater services is a fundamental element of health, safety, and well-being for households across Oregon,”

the grant implementation plan states. “Yet water affordability is a significant and growing concern in communities across the state, (which) can be related to multiple adverse household impacts in terms of service disconnections and lien sales, leading to home foreclosures and evictions.”

“Oregon is in a dire drought and low-income households are disproportionately impacted by this.”

Applicants who rent, whose water/wastewater utility costs are included in rent or who pay those costs directly to their landlord, will be required to obtain a landlord/management authorization to access the utility account directly, according to the document.

See the required form with this story at thechiefnews.com.

Permanent rule filed On Monday, Feb. 7, at 12:29 p.m. the OHA filed a new permanent rule with the Oregon Secretary of State to require people to wear masks while indoors in public places. The new rule replaces a temporary rule that expires on Feb. 8, according to the OHA. Before the filing, the OHA invited public testimony at a public hearing on a proposed permanent mask rule. The Jan. 20 hearing attracted more than 300 attendees and lasted for sixand-a-half hours, with more than 100 Oregonians testifying against the adoption of a permanent rule.

State health officials claimed the filing was the only way the OHA could extend the current temporary mask rule past its expiration date, or until mask rules would no longer be needed to reduce transmission of COVID-19, saving lives and preventing the Omicron crisis from further overwhelming Oregon’s health care system.

Digital Vaccine Records Project On Nov. 17, 2021, Oregon’s House Interim Special Committee heard a presentation from the OHA on the proposal of a digital vaccine records project.

According to the presentation, the OHA will make a go/no go decision on whether to implement the project by Feb. 22.

OHA Lead Communications Officer Jonathan Modie explained the project would be an electronic means for people in Oregon to share their vaccination status with businesses that ask for proof of vaccination status and added that the decision to sign up will be “voluntary.”

According to Modie, the OHA is still in the building phase of the technological tool, with an anticipated rollout date in late March.

In response to the question of how the public might receive such a technology, Modie replied, “we believe people will be supportive, especially if it makes it easier to access the businesses and public places they enjoy.”

Access to digital vaccine records will be free for anyone who signs up for the service and has received their COVID-19 vaccine in Oregon.

Columbia County’s trusted local news source

www.thechiefnews.com

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Friday, February 11, 2022

•B lotter • •

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.

For specific details about cases listed, contact the appropriate law enforcement agency.

Rainier Police Jan. 1 • A vehicle was vandalized, and a car seat was stolen from inside.

Jan. 2 • A citizen reported that an unknown subject hit their parked vehicle, causing substantial damage.

• A player was feeling lucky after winning some money on

REVENUE From Page A1

and are showing the willingness to pay higher prices for goods and services. Business can pass along production cost increases as a result, maintaining or even increasing profit margins.”

According to the summary, the biggest economic challenge remains the supply side of the economy.

“Supply chains are not broken but are overloaded due to strong consumer demand.

Given that labor runs through everything, it is the single biggest constraint on the economy today. Labor supply is increasing. Oregon added a record number of jobs last year. However the labor market is very tight and expected to remain so,” the summary states, adding that the biggest risk to the outlook remains persistently high inflation.

“Our latest state revenue projections present an opportunity to make investments that spur a strong economic recovery and support working families, especially those who have been hardest hit by the pandemic, wildfires, and the unprecedented challenges Oregonians have faced in the last two years,” Oregon Gov. Kate Brown said.

“This is a pivotal moment for Oregon. We have a windfall of one-time resources this year, and we have the opportunity to make big investments—and to do the big and bold work to help our working families and businesses thrive. We cannot miss this moment.

“While I am pleased to see

NEXT

From Page A1 Superintendent Cathy Hurowitz said. “Not only will Columbia County get a clean fuels facility and green jobs, but we will also get a thriving wetland that enhances our local ecosystem.”

The Clatskanie School District is coordinating with NEXT to create an environmental science curriculum for local students.

a video lottery machine. The gambler cashed in their ticket and attempted to leave the establishment. A man, unknown to the victim, attempted to rob him with what appeared to be a taser. The victim was able to safely escape with his winnings intact.

• A woman stole a carton of cigarettes from a local business.

Jan. 8 • Several items were stolen from a vehicle parked at a job site.

• A concerned citizen called in regarding a driver that was passing vehicles in a no passing zone. An officer located the car and performed a routine traffic stop. The driver had an outstanding warrant, which was subsequently resolved.

Jan. 4 • A large blue duffel bag was turned in as found property.

Jan. 11 • An officer responded to a neighborhood disturbance.

Peace was restored.

Jan. 5 • A local business reported a chain link fence surrounding their property had been cut and several strands of copper wire had been removed from the building.

• A compressor was damaged when an unknown subject cut the copper wire from it.

Jan. 13 • Officers assisted on a civil disturbance. The parties were able to reach a mutually agreeable resolution.

Jan. 14 • Keys were stolen from a local business.

Jan. 7 • A stolen boat was recovered at the marina.

Jan. 19 • Several vehicles in town were vandalized.

growth in wages for Oregonians, there is more work we need to do to grow, develop, and support our workforce.

Now is the time to make critical investments in housing, child care, workers, and businesses to help jumpstart growth and keep our economy moving.

“And as we work to help Oregon families succeed, with these additional resources at the midpoint of session, we also have an opportunity to ensure that every Oregonian feels safe in their community.

I will continue to work with legislators to address community safety, and I encourage members of both parties to bring forward their ideas for evidence-based community violence prevention and intervention. When we invest in and create opportunities for Oregonians and their families, we create safer, healthier communities.”

local law enforcement with general public safety needs and to combat illegal marijuana grows. The Governor continues to double down on letting criminals out of prison, while several bills are working through the legislature that will make our communities more dangerous. We must invest in public safety. With the excess revenue, Republicans will also pursue a $50 million appropriation to fund forest thinning operations around the state.

“Decades of forest mismanagement has left our forests overstocked ready to explode with a single spark. We must act in a bold way to ensure Oregonians are protected from devastating wildfire. We must also be responsible with this money. We need to reserve more funds for the next downturn. We also need to look seriously at giving Oregonians a tax break. The government has buckets of money, but inflation is pinching the pockets of working Oregonians. As Democrats introduce bills to increase taxes, Republicans are looking at ways to cut them.”

The Oregon Economic Forecast provides information to planners and policy makers in state agencies and private organizations for use in their decision-making processes, according to a statement on the Oregon Department of Administrative Services website.

The forecast is the basis for much of the budgeting in state government. The forecast reports are issued four times a year: March, June, September, and December.

Republican response Oregon Senate Republican Leader Tim Knopp (RBend) released the following statement about the revenue forecast.

“Oregon’s Office of Economic Analysis reported that tax revenues coming into state government are higher than previously projected. The state has over $900 million in extra revenue. In the meantime, rising crime rates are impacting Oregonians across the state, from shootings and theft in the Metro area to illegal marijuana growth in Southern Oregon.

“With the excess revenue, Senate Republicans are pushing to spend $60 million on Oregon State Police to help The program would be tied to wetland restoration and provide students with both in-classroom and hands-on learning opportunities.

During the public review process for the land use permits, opponents of the plant expressed fears that biodiesel fuel production would be detrimental to surrounding wildlife, properties, and agriculture.

The President of Beaver Drainage District Warren Seely called the mitigation site “a massive host site for

Read the entire Oregon Revenue Forecast with this story at thechiefnews.com. agriculturally damaging weeds and pests,” and lodged concerns over the drainage of 650,000 gallons of wastewater the NEXT plant would produce.

The plant project was launched in 2016 and applications started in 2019 for official review. NEXT officials will now continue through the state and federal public permitting processes.

If the project is approved, NEXT officials expect the plant construction to be completed by 2024.

The Chief

Jeremy C. Ruark Publisher - Executive Editor

Zoe Gottlieb General Assignment Reporter

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•

•O bituaries • • Kelly Bledsoe

Sept. 2, 1952 ~ Jan. 24, 2022 Kelly Bledsoe passed away on Jan. 24, 2022 after a long battle with cancer at the age of 69.

Born in St. Helens, Oregon in 1952, he is preceded in death by his father Jim and brother Kurt.

He is survived by his wife Sally; mother Janice; siblings, Mike, Jamie, Lisa and Axel; four sons; and four grandchildren.

He graduated from Rainier High School in 1970 and attended Portland State University. He crab fished in Alaska for six years, then worked for Familian NW, then Fergusson in Longview,

horseman, and old car guy.

He loved to travel the world.

His last trip combined old cars and travel in Australia. He was also a staunch supporter of wrestling. In addition to coaching Rainier Youth Wrestling for many years, he was a two-time state wrestling champion at RHS and a three-time NCAA qualifier in wrestling at PSU. A memorial service has not been scheduled. It will be held outdoors later this year.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Rainier Youth Wrestling or the Carcinoid Cancer Foundation in his honor.

Washington. Kelly was a loving husband and father, a casual hunter, fisherman,

Ruth Soderstrom

Dec. 2, 1924 ~ Jan. 31, 2022 Ruth was born in Aurora, Oregon to John and Lillian (Moriarity) La Fountaine on Dec. 2, 1924. She graduated from Clatskanie High School in 1942. She was married to Clarence Soderstrom until he passed away in 1999.

Ruth had son’s, Ron (Barbie) of Scappoose, Oregon and John (Lynn`e) Svenson of Clatskanie, Oregon from a previous marriage, then with Clarence she had son Gary (Sandy) Soderstrom of Clatskanie Oregon; daughter Marie Greenwalt of Happy Valley, Oregon; daughter Susan Shaw of Albuquerque New Mexico. She has a sister Delores Jarvi of Keyport, Washington. Ruth had 15 grandchildren; 37 great grandchildren; four great great grandchildren; numerous nieces and nephews; and extended family.

Ruth was part of TOPS and KOPS, as well as Royal Neighbors. Ruth mainly

The Chief (USPS 116-360) is published weekly by Country Media, Inc. 1805 Columbia Blvd, St. Helens, OR 97051

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worked on the family farm except for a few years where she worked at Lipman Wolfe and Humps restaurant.

Ruth was preceded in death by her mother Lillian in 1963, father John in 1971, and husband Clarence in 1999. She lived in Clatskanie a majority of her life except for a short period when she lived in Manzanita from 1988-2006.

POSTMASTER: Send address changes to The Chief PO Box 1153, St. Helens, OR 97051 James Yang Creative Director

Ruth dearly loved her family and was very proud of all of them. She was good natured, fun loving, hardworking, smart, had an amazing memory, and was independent. She loved playing cards, dominoes, doing word search puzzles, reading, listening to country music especially George Strait, as well as loved watching sports; especially Mariners, Seahawks and Blazers. Ruth was loved by many and will be missed.

A funeral will be held at 11 a.m. on Wed., Feb. 16, 2022 at Groulx Family Mortuary, 25381 Wonderly Road, Rainier, OR 97048, followed by a short social with coffee and cookies. Then placement at Maplewood Cemetery in Clatskanie that afternoon at 1 p.m. The family would like any donations to be made to the Alzheimer’s Association in Ruth’s name: act.alz.org/ donate.

SUBSCRIPTION RATES: 1 month in county: $8 1 month out of county: $10 One year in county: $60 One year out of county: $80 Jon Lowrance Driver

CONTACT US • Phone: (503) 397-0116 • Fax: (503) 397-4093 • Website: www.thechiefnews.com Editorial: chiefnews@countrymedia.net ADVERTISE WITH US: Advertising Email: chronicleads@countrymedia.net • Classified email: chronicleclassifieds@countrymedia.net Editorial policy Opinions expressed on this page are independent of The Chief views and are solely those of the writers expressing them.

Letters policy This newspaper’s letters to the editor are limited to a maximum of 250 words and will be edited for grammar, spelling and blatant inaccuracies. Unsubstantiated or irresponsible allegations, or personal attacks on any individual, will not be published. Letters containing details presented as facts rather than opinions must include their sources. Writers are limited to one published letter per month. All submissions must include the author’s full name, local street address and telephone number (only the name and city of residence

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will be published). By submitting a letter, writers also grant permission for them to be posted online. Opinions expressed on this page are the writer’s alone and do not represent the opinion of the newspaper or its parent company, Country Media, Inc.

countrymedia.net. All columns are subject to editing for style, grammar and clarity. However, views expressed in guest columns are independent and do not represent those of The Chief, its staff or Country Media, Inc.

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 chiefnews@

Obituaries Obituaries received after noon on Wednesday may not be in time for that Friday’s paper. Obituaries may be emailed to chiefnews@ countrymedia.net, sent via mail, or dropped off at the office. We also accept obituaries written by funeral homes. Include the address and daytime phone number of the person who submitted the obituary, so we can verify information as necessary.

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Friday, February 11, 2022

A5

Marketplace

It’s easy to place a classified ad in The Chief

Just call 503-397-0116

Listings are updated daily at www.thechiefnews.com 502

Help Wanted

Annual ASTORIA AUTOMOTIVE SWAP MEET

Vendors Wanted!

Clatsop Fairgrounds Saturday, March 12TH 8 A.M. - 2 P.M. Call Fred (503) 440-9481 or Dorothy (503) 468-0006

502

Help Wanted

Head Lifeguard Clatskanie Park & Recreation District is accepting applications for the position of Head Lifeguard.

Required: At least 2 years Lifeguard/

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Help Wanted

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CPR/AED experience. WSI certified desirable. You can request an application by phone at 503-728-2757, by email at csp@cni. net or stop by the pool office when open (hours will be posted on door). Applications can be returned by mail to: Clatskanie Park & Recreation District, PO Box 737, Clatskanie OR 97016 or by email to csp@ cni.net or in person at the pool office when open (hours will be posted on door). If you have any questions, please contact Charity Lickfold at 503-728-2757 or Cyndi Warren, 208249-7144. Applications will be accepted until 5:00pm on Wednesday, March 16, 2022.

Assistant Pool Manager Clatskanie Park & Recreation District is now accepting applications for an Assistant Pool Manager. Responsibilities: Beginning in February/March and continuing through September assist the Pool Manager with training, managing and evaluating approximately 20 lifeguards. In addition, this position helps in planning, organizing, scheduling and teaching programs offered at our seasonal outdoor pool. Knowledge and Skills: Experience in pool management, supervising employees, administration, leadership and good public relation skills is highly desirable.

Knowledge in

pool maintenance, water chemistry testing and related is helpful. Experience and Training: Experience preferred or the willingness to work within an agreed upon time frame between the applicant, Pool Manager and District Manager to obtain the required and suggested certifications for the position; First-Aid, CPR, AED certifications, Lifeguard and Lifeguard Instructor and Training, Water Safety Instructor and CPO (Certified Pool Operator) certifications. You can request an application and a copy of the full job description by phone at 503-728-2757, by email at csp@cni. net or stopping by the pool office

when open (hours will be posted on door). Applications can be returned by mail to: Clatskanie Park & Recreation District, PO Box 737, Clatskanie OR 97016 or by email to csp@cni. net or in person at the pool office when open (hours will be posted on door). If you have any questions, please contact Cyndi Warren, 208249-7144. Applications will be accepted until 3:00pm on Monday, March 14, 2022.

years of age by the last day of the Lifeguard Training/ Certification Course.

Training dates to be provided. You can request an application by phone at 503-728-2757, by email at csp@cni. net or stop by the pool office when open (hours will be posted on door).

Applications can be returned by mail to: Clatskanie Park & Recreation District, PO Box 737, Clatskanie OR 97016 or by email to csp@cni.net or in person at the pool office when open (hours will be posted on door).

If you have any questions, please contact Charity Lickfold at 503728-2757 or Cyndi Warren, 208249-7144. Applica-

tions will be accepted until 5:00pm on Wednesday, March 16, 2022.

com/careers and search job number 2022-0001866. An equal opportunity employer/disability/ veteran.

Lifeguard Clatskanie Park & Recreation District is now accepting applications for the position of Lifeguard. Required: Applicants must meet the requirement of being 15

Hiring Classroom Assistants to support our Day Treatment Center, Quest Academy, in Longview,WA. 32 hrs/wk, school year. $20.68/hr. www.esd112.org/ takeroot U.S. Bank is seeking a client relationship consultant banker with customer service and sales experience in Clatskanie, Oregon. In this role, you’ll build relationships with customers, address their banking needs and recommend financial solutions based on their unique goals.

Apply at usbank.

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Public Notices CC22-1576

CC22-1575

CC22-1574

NOTICE OF BOARD MEETING NOTICE OF MEETING NOTICE OF The Clatskanie People’s Utility District Board of Directors has scheduled the next regular Board meeting for Wednesday, February 16, 2022 at 6:00 pm in the community room of the District’s administration building located at 495 E Columbia River Highway, Clatskanie. A Board Workshop will be held at 5:30 pm.

An executive session may be called at the workshop and/or meeting, pursuant to: ORS 192.660 (2) (f) information or records that are exempt by law from public inspection. AGENDA

CLATSKANIE PEOPLE’S UTILITY DISTRICT BOARD WORKSHOP on Wednesday, February 16, 2022 at 5:30 P.M. I. BOARD TRAINING & WHA INSURANCE REPORT: Jeff Griffin, WHA Insurance Agency II. POLICY REVIEW: Policy 112 Distribution Facility Overload Policy and Policy 305 Contract Law III. STAFF REPORTS UPDATE. CLATSKANIE PEOPLE’S UTILITY DISTRICT REGULAR BOARD MEETING on Wednesday, February 16, 2022 at 6:00 P.M. I. PUBLIC COM-

•

MENTS II. CONSENT AGENDA· Minutes of Board Workshop, January 19, 2021 · Minutes of Regular Board Meeting, January 19, 2021 · Review payment of bills for January 2021 III. ACTION ITEMS · Policy Review: EH 301 Employee Benefits and EH 381 Wellness Program · Board as Acting Contract Review Board: Accept Vegetation Management RFP Results IV. DISCUSSION / INFORMATIONAL ITEMS · Board Comments & Calendar V. EXECUTIVE SESSION VI. ADJOURNMENT

The regular meeting of the Clatskanie Park & Recreation District will be held on Thursday, February 17, 2022, at 6:00pm at 555 SW Bryant St, Clatskanie, OR, Port of Columbia

County Offices (the Old Middle School). Items on the agenda include but are not limited to: General Park maintenance and pool operation update(s). Board Chair, Andrew Mustola.

CC22-1573

NOTICE OF MEETING The regular meeting of the Rainier Cemetery District will be held on Monday, February 21, 2022 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. Janice Carstensen, Board Chairman.

MEETING

The Board of Directors for Clatskanie School District 6J will hold a Board meeting, Monday, February 14, 2022 @ 6:30 p.m. via Zoom. Please see our website at www.csd.k12. or.us on the main page for directions to join the meeting. The agenda includes but is not limited to: Superintendent and Principal’s reports, financial report, policy updates and the consent agenda. The public is encouraged to attend.

•C rossword P uzzle • • STATEPOINT CROSSWORD THEME: Kings and Queens ACROSS

1. Outback birds 5. Pilgrimage to Mecca 8. Well, to Sofia Loren 12. Impose a tax 13. No way!

14. Malicious burning 15. ____ over 16. Radiant light 17. Ran easily 18. *”The King of Staten Island” star Pete 20. Goyim, alt. sp.

21. Mork from Ork, e.g.

22. Common furniture wood 23. “Der Ring des Nibelungen” composer 26. Petroleum product (2 words) 30. Shakespearean fuss 31. Loan shark 34. Village People hit 35. City in France 37. Street, in Paris 38. Show in progress (2 words) 39. Tiny purse 40. Was almost out of gas, e.g. (2 words) 42. *First H in HRH 43. Type of bag 45. Unguarded 47. Brick and mortar carrier

48. Resize a dress, e.g.

50. “For ____ the Bell Tolls” 52. *Netflix royal drama (2 words) 55. Bridal veil fabric 56. One who hoes 57. Not far 59. Orderly arrangement 60. Drunkard, slangily 61. Stare 62. Country club pegs 63. Drivers’ licenses, e.g.

64. *2019 movie “Queen & ____”

DOWN

1. Not Moose or Shriner 2. Fitting reward 3. Iris holder 4. Forest spirit 5. Gingerbread sculpture 6. Kitchen garb 7. *Billie ____ King 8. *Queens neighbor 9. ESPN trophy 10. Denials 11. December 31st, e.g.

13. Lowest points 14. Plural of alga 19. Intestinal obstruction 22. Opposite of their 23. *Prince Charles’ domain 24. Temples’ innermost sanctuaries

25. Not stay in (2 words) 26. Perceive by touch 27. *The NBA’s Kansas City____ Kings (1972-75) 28. More unfriendly 29. *Late “Live” King of CNN 32. Russia’s mountain range 33. Seek a seat 36. *The last “king” of Russia 38. Proprietor 40. *The ___ Queen, regal chess character in “Through the Looking Glass” 41. Public disapproval 44. Cozy and comfortable 46. Two of these do not make a right 48. Near the wind 49. Potato soup partner, pl.

50. “She ____ a Yellow Ribbon” 51. Add to payroll 52. Native of Thailand 53. Lash mark 54. Member of National Socialist German Workers’ Party 55. Giant pot 58. “Shiny Happy People” band

Solution to crossword in next week’s issue of The Chief.

www.thechiefnews.com

A6

Friday, February 11, 2022

The Valentine Edition Messages of Love

Shopping Local

Messages of love A-, Ha ppy Valent (LAFA) ine sweet s Day thin Love, - g!

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Events

drie, u u A d o n ron a you get y ! a A r Dea how old lentine’s atter be my Va m o N lways ve, Mom a l l i w Lo

To my favorite husband Happy Valentine’s from your last wife!

ur love and o y , y n o h t An ns strengthe g in d n a t s under Henry, you d n a e n u J me. To d home. n a t h g li y are m I love you! ckman Shelby He Heather, thank you for being a wonderful wife, mom and grandmother. You make our family better every day!

Dave

e ere her w u o y Wished day my love, to with us y we miss you d .. and dad and Robert. a th Saman I.P Todd R.

Julie yo u ar everyth e my ing I love yo . u Love, Pa . ul Byron- you are my knight in shining armor!

Love, Betty

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www.thechiefnews.com

Friday, February 11, 2022

A7

To last a lifetime Looking back on decades of love ZOE GOTTLIEB chronicle2@countrymedia.net

On the evening of March 13, 1965, at a bar in Ventura, California, Shirley Paden was out to have a good time.

What she didn’t know was she was about to have the dance of her life.

“She was dancing, and right after the dance, we hit it off,” husband Doug Walker said. “That was the beginning of it.”

Doug said he instantly knew Shirley was the one.

“I didn’t say much about it for another one or two dates,” he said. “It took me quite a while to convince her.”

“My buddy, he thought I was nuts,” he added.

Shirley, too, was hard to convince.

“When he first asked me to marry him, I said ‘no, get lost,” she said.

Shirley admitted this was a test, and by sending him away, he could determine whether there was a doubt in his mind that he wanted to marry her.

Doug returned a month later, steadfast in his love for her. The couple wed in July. Eighteen days later, he shipped off to Vietnam.

With a chasm of geographic distance to separate them, Doug said he made Shirley promise to write to him every day. And she did.

The Chief asked the pair they like most about each other.

“Beautiful, intelligent, as caring as a person could be.

I just loved her right off the bat,” Doug said.

Zoe Gottlieb / The Chief

Shirley and Doug Walker pose for a photo in front of the Chief’s office.

Doug and Shirley explained the magic that keeps them together after 56 years of marriage.

“I think actually to me, it’s everything he does,” Shirley said.

“We have deep mutual respect, personally and emotionally,” Doug answered.

Though the couple hasn’t been without the occasional spat, they have continuously stuck by each other’s side, with the encouragement of their respective families.

Doug brought in a picture to The Chief of the two of them on their wedding day: he in his military uniform, she in her white gown, her hair done in white ringlet curls, a picture of Marilyn Monroe.

“She was a very gor-

geous bride,” he said, glancing over at her. “Still is.”

Joe and Dena Nelson For Columbia County residents Dena and Joe Nelson, the foundation for a 60-year marriage started with a chance encounter and a game of pinochle.

Dena and Joe were both 20 years old in 1962, living in Tacoma and taking courses at the University of Puget Sound when they met through mutual friends.

“We met essentially in the student union building during dinner,” Joe said.

“He asked me for a coffee date, and there was an art display going on the campus,” Dena added, reminiscing on the moment

Zoe Gottlieb / The Chief

The Nelsons say respect, patience, and laughter are the secrets to an enduring marriage.

that changed her life forever.

“I love art, and he wanted to go to the art show. He was the first feller I had dated who was really honest and liked art.”

“We sat down to have coffee afterward, and I felt at home,” Dena said.

Joe told The Chief it took a cascade of moments, rather than a single moment, to realize Dena was “the one.”

“The moment?” Joe said.

“Well, I think my moment(s) were before then because she used to tease me all the time. I wanted to go out with her but she went out with somebody else so I was really jealous.

“Finally, I asked for a date, so it was like ‘Ok. We can do this.’ So we did. We

pretty much stayed together after that.”

Joe said his and Dena’s differences are part of the glue that draws them together, but more importantly, “I like her. I not only love her, I like her too.”

Joe achieved his Master’s degree, but Dena had taken a hiatus from her education after she and Joe wed. Despite their whirlwind romance, Dena returned to school ten years later to finish her Social Science degree and took a job as an event planner, setting up trade shows and conventions.

In 1972, Joe took a job opening at a lab, and the Nelsons moved to Columbia County.

Dena, a city girl at heart,

had a tough time with the transition at first, but one way or another, she stuck around, and they raised their two children - both boys - in St. Helens.

Those two boys went on to have children of their own, also boys. The couple has since welcomed one great-grandchild and three step-grandkids, into the family fold.

Joe and Dena Nelson are now 79 years old and retired.

They tolerate each other’s quirks - Dena is a late sleeper, according to Joe, and Dena swears by the fact that no one can break Joe’s concentration when he’s focused - as well as celebrate each other’s strengths.

More importantly, Joe uplifts Dena when she needs it, and she returns the favor.

When it was discovered Dena had brain tumors, without hesitation, Joe took over the household chores and continued to care for Dena.

“We’re a team,” Joe said, which Dena affirmed.

“I think that’s one of the philosophies that makes a long-lasting marriage, is your teamwork,” she said.

The pair have done a lot of traveling together and made memories over the years, but for Dena and Joe, two specific memories come to mind.

“Sitting on a lanai in Hawaii and having breakfast as the sun comes up,” Joe said.

“There’s so many,” Dena answered. “I think my best memory was waking up the morning after we were married, and we were together.

It was such a comfort.”

The history of Valentine’s Day STAFF REPORT chiefnews@countrymedia.net

Valentine’s Day is a day set aside to show your love through greetings, gifts and flowers.

It has been suggested that the holiday has origins in the Roman festival of Lupercalia, held in midFebruary, according to the Britannica, an online website.

The festival, which celebrated the coming of spring, included fertility rites and the pairing off of women with men by lottery. At the end of the 5th century, Pope Gelasius I forbid the

celebration of Lupercalia and is sometimes attributed with replacing it with St. Valentine’s Day, but the true origin of the holiday is vague at best. Valentine’s Day did not come to be celebrated as a day of romance until about the 14th century.

Valentine’s Day is celebrated on Monday, February 14, 2022.

The Britannica account states that formal messages, or valentines, appeared in the 1500s, and by the late 1700s commercially printed cards were being used. The first commercial valentines in the United States were printed in the mid-1800s.

Valentines commonly depict Cupid, the Roman god of love, along with hearts, traditionally the seat of emotion. Because it was thought that the avian mating season begins in mid-February, birds also became a symbol of the day. Traditional gifts include candy and flowers, particularly red roses, a symbol of beauty and love.

The day is popular in the United States as well as in Britain, Canada, and Australia, and it is also celebrated in other countries, including Argentina, France, Mexico, and South Korea. In the Philippines it is the most common wedding anniver-

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sary, and mass weddings of hundreds of couples are not uncommon on that date.

The holiday has expanded to expressions of affection among relatives and friends.

Many schoolchildren exchange valentines with one another on this day.

The most popular flowers for Valentine’s Day are long-stemmed red roses, followed by carnations and Valentine’s Lilies. The most popular candies for Valentine’s Day are conversation hearts, followed by chocolate. In Oregon, the most popular Valentine’s Day candy are M&Ms, according to Explore Food & Wine.

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A8

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Friday, February 11, 2022