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‘Spring ahead’ Sunday

Clatskanie student sports recognized Page A8

FRIDAY, MARCH 6, 2020

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The Chief

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VOL. 128, NO. 43

Serving the Lower Columbia Region since 1891

Looking for solutions

Coronavirus Strikes Oregon

Jeremy C. Ruark / The Chief

Community members attending the town hall wrote down their concerns about school safety on these yellow pieces of paper which were posted on boards around the room.See more photos at thechiefnews.com.

JEREMY C. RUARK jruark@countrymedia.net

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Community members attending a school safety town hall meeting Thursday night at Clatskanie Middle/ High School expressed their emotions, frustrations and concerns.

Approximately 60 parents, grandparents, teachers, school board members, city officials and law enforcement officials joined the community discussion during the town hall organized by Clatskanie School District Superintendent Cathy Hurowitz.

“It was a very positive group of people here willing to support the school and the work that we need to do to develop a safety plan,” Hurowitz said. “They are willing to listen and listen to each other to start the work that we need to do.”

The town hall follows three separate school threats, two at the middle/ high school and one at Clatskanie Elementary School in the past three weeks. The threats forced a lockout and lockdown at the middle/high school and a lockout at the elementary school.

The threats were hand written on bathroom walls at the two schools. As of Late Thursday, Feb. 27 no suspects had been identified. Authorities have not released the specific language of what was written, but Clatskanie Middle/High School Principal Jim Helmen said they were threats against students.

Clatskanie Mayor Bob Brajcich told those gathered at the town hall that the City of Clatskanie is developing funds that could pay for a full time law enforcement officer dedicated to Clatskanie daily, Monday through Friday, through the contract the City currently has with the Columbia County Sheriff’s Office.

“So during the school days we would have an officer in town,” Brajcich said. “That officer would get to know the kids, the businesses and the community.”

Brajcich said the cost for the additional deputy would be approximately

Columbia County response

Oregon cases

CHRISTINE MENGES chronicle2@countrymedia.net

JEREMY C. RUARK jruark@countrymedia.net

The Chief checked in with Columbia County Public Health Administrator Michael Paul to find out what steps the county is taking to monitor the coronavirus and handle a coronavirus outbreak should one occur.

JEREMY C. RUARK jruark@countrymedia.net

School officials in Columbia County are taking preventive steps to ensure student and staff safety in light of the coronavirus presumptive cases that have been reported by the Oregon Health Authority.

Paul: What we’re doing, we work in partnership with the Oregon Health Authority, we’re also part of the public health multi-agency coordination group, as part of that multi-agency group, we’re all coordinating, making sure clinics,

Oregon’s U.S. Senators Jeff Merkley and Ron Wyden, and U.S. Representatives Peter DeFazio, Suzanne Bonamici, and Earl Blumenauer, announced late Wednesday $500,000 in CDC funding for the State of Oregon to help fight the coronavirus.

Oregon health officials have identified a third presumptive positive case of COVID-19 among state residents. The third case is an adult Oregon resident from Umatilla County who is hospitalized in Walla Walla, Wash.

On Monday, March 2, state and local health officials moved quickly to contact people who may have been in close contact with the individual who tested

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The Chief: What is Columbia County doing now to address or monitor Coronavirus?

See COUNTY Page A5

See CASES Page A5

Clatskanie Schools Clatskanie School District Superintendent Cathy Hurowitz said her district has received and is following advisories from the Oregon Health Authority, Columbia County Health and the Oregon Department of Education (ODE) concerning the coronavirus.

“We are coordinating with the Incident Management Team at the Oregon See SCHOOL Page A3

Preparing for weather emergencies

See TOWN HALL Page A7

Opinions...............A4 Out and About.....A5 Market Place........A6 Public Notices......A6 Obituaries............A7 Church News.......A7 Police Blotters.....A8 Sports...................A8

Schools take action

Photo Columbia County Emergency Management

Members of various cities and county agencies gathered to discuss emergency preparedness at a meeting hosted by Columbia County and FEMA on Tuesday, March 3.

CHRISTINE MENGES chronicle2@countrymedia.net

The alert reads, “At 9 p.m., on Sunday, Feb. 23, an Ice Storm Warning is issued and will be in effect through 1 p.m. on Monday, Feb. 24, 2020.”

Emergency agencies, along with county and city officials, used that alert in a scenario for a tabletop exercise to help better prepare Columbia County for sure an emergency weather event.

Columbia County Emergency Management, in conjunction with the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), held the day-long tabletop discussion on Tuesday, March 3, about the capabilities of Columbia County to withstand a variety of threats and hazards related to severe weather storms. Because the event was hosted through FEMA, it came at no cost to Columbia County.

Multiple county agencies participated in the exercise, including the Columbia River and Clatskanie PUDs, multiple Columbia County school districts, Columbia 9-1-1

Communications District, Legacy Health Clinic St. Helens, OHSU Family Medicine Clinic Scappoose, Community Action Team and others.

Columbia County Deputy Director of Emergency Management Shaun Brown came up with the idea. He said he wanted to do an exercise like this because of his background with the Oregon National Guard’s 102nd Civil Support Team (CST).

“Columbia County has never done something like this before, and we needed to,” Brown said. “I have a lot of experience with these types of exercises, so I believe in them.”

During his time with the National Guard CST, Brown said he would take part in full-scale exercises on a monthly basis. He said doing so would help multiple parties better communicate with each other in the event of an emergency.

The March 3 tabletop discussion, part of what is officially called the National Exercise Program, was the first part of a three-part program, taking place over the course of two years, that

helps communities increase their readiness in the event of a largescale emergency.

During the meeting, FEMA representatives presented a scenario that unfolded in an hour-by-hour timeframe. In the scenario, there was an intense snowstorm that hit the county, then ice, then thawing, which led to flooding. The multiple county agencies discussed what they would do to respond to the emergency.

“We all just shared out ideas and things that we would be doing. We all took turns talking about what would be going on in our areas” Clatskanie PUD Customer Relations and Services Manager Sarah Johnson said.

For the Clatskanie PUD, that means restoring power, which means being out on the roads. But being out on the roads involves coordination.

“Someone has to clear the roads for us to be able to get there to help them restore power, someone has to be there to clear roads as we’re getting to our customers,” Johnson said.

Doing so involves coordina-

tion with ODOT and with the county road department, as well as emergency responders, according to Johnson. While going over what to do in the event of an emergency was beneficial, it was the collaboration with other agencies that was most helpful, Johnson said.

“We’ve been through several ice storms and snow storms, and we feel confident in how we would respond. It was nice having different agencies in the same room to talk about how we would coordinate with each other, that was the biggest value for us,” Johnson said.

One such scenario that requires coordination is if the power goes out, which will be especially harmful to local health clinics, like Legacy Health Clinic in St. Helens or OHSU Family Medical Clinic in Scappoose, both of which do not have a backup generator.

“Their plan is to call EMTs and have them transport a generator,” Columbia County Commissioner Alex Tardif said.

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See WEATHER Page A7

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www.thechiefnews.com

Friday, March 6, 2020

Supermoon March 9 “Full Crow Moon,” with crows cawing, signaling the beginning of spring and “Full Sap Moon,” signaling the flow of sugar maple tree sap, according to the website, House Beautiful.

The Old Farmers Almanac lists Full Moons for 2020:

Jeremy C Ruark / The Chief

Native Americans named the full moons to track seasons, according to the Old Farmers Almanac.

STAFF REPORT chiefnews@countrymedia.net

You might see your neighbors or friends looking up on Monday, March 9. They likely would be looking for the next supermoon, which is set to appear in the sky at 10:48 a.m.

According to the Old Farmers Almanac, a supermoon appears larger than a typical full moon due to it being closer to Earth. Native Americans often named the full moons to track seasons.

The March full moon has been named “Full Warm Moon,” because earthworms appear as a sign of spring,

• Full Worm Moon will occur on March 9 • Full Pink Moon on April 7 • Full Flower Moon on May 7 • Full Strawberry Moon on June 5 • Full Buck Moon on July 5 • Full Sturgeon Moon on Aug. 3 • Full Corn Moon on Sept. 2 • Full Harvest Moon on Oct. 1 • Full Hunters Moon on Oct. 31 • Full Beaver Moon on Nov. 30 • Full Cold Moon on Dec. 29 If you snap a photo of the supermoon over Columbia County, send it to jruark@ countrymedia.net and we will share your photo with our viewers.

Log yard equipment fire

Photo courtesy of Columbia River Fire & Rescue

Crews responding to the blaze spotted the flames and smoke as they left their fire station in Rainier.

STAFF REPORT chiefnews@countrymedia.net

Fire crews rushed to the Teevin Brothers log yard in the 29000 block of Dike Road Monday evening to a report of a fire.

According to Columbia River Fire & Rescue, at 6:41 p.m. firefighters from Rainier were dispatched to a report of equipment on fire next to the railroad tracks at the log yard. The first engine crew leaving

the Rainier station could see flames as they turned onto Highway 30 heading towards the blaze.

On arrival, the fire crew found a Cat 325D log loader with flames and smoke pouring from the engine compartment. Fire crews used a hose line to extinguish the blaze.

CRFR officials said the fire was difficult for crews to extinguish due to the amount of diesel fuel and hydraulic oil in the large piece of equipment that con-

tinued to reignite on the hot metal. The machine was not in use at the time of the fire but had been used that day for daily operations.

No one was hurt during the incident, according to investigators.

An engine, water tender, rescue and chief responded with eight career and volunteer firefighters. Crews were on scene for about 90 minutes.

The cause of the fire was under investigation at press time.

Oregon wildfires: What’s next?

STAFF REPORT chiefnews@countrymedia.net

The Oregon State Fire Marshal’s Office has released its final report focusing on needs of the Oregon fire service to address the challenges from wildfires in the wildland urban interface (WUI).

The report release follows meetings in 16 communities throughout 2019 on a Listening and Understanding Tour.

The outreach focused on communities near and in wildland areas at elevated fire risk and engaged more than 250 individuals involved in the prevention, mitigation, and response to fire in the WUI. “Currently, our Oregon fire service has identified gaps that need to be filled to address the new reality of wildfire threatening communities, people, and property,” State Fire Marshal Jim Walker said. “Our frontline responders to wildland fire called for addressing needs in personnel, resources, and funding. Addressing these needs would support Oregon’s larger strategy of confronting the growing challenge of wildfire.”

The OSFM heard from fire chiefs and firefighters, tribal partners, community leaders, forestry, emergency management, and others during its Listening and Understanding Tour.

Overall, the participants called for a stronger statewide approach as well as specific tools, messaging, technology, data, and risk mapping ability that would allow local agencies to share

a common goal and have a clear path moving forward as a unified front.

During the tour, the OSFM heard that some fire agencies and areas had the personnel and funding capacity to provide outreach campaigns, but others were limited in their approach or focused solely on response.

Findings from the tour pointed to the implementation of statewide strategy to address the threat of wildland fire and minimize the disparities in the information shared and the level of prevention and mitigation work being done by the structural fire service.

Columbia County’s trusted local news source

As a result of the tour, the OSFM has proposed to address the needs identified by the fire service through creating a statewide strategy for prevention, education, and planning at the community level.

Provisions for such positions were initially proposed in legislation during the 2020 Legislative session.

The Governor’s Fire Service Policy Council, the Oregon Fire Chiefs Association, and the Oregon Fire Marshals Association have endorsed this report.

View the full report attached to this story at thechiefnews.com.

‘Spring ahead’ Sunday STAFF REPORT chiefnews@countrymedia.net

Most of us will lose an hour of sleep this Sunday morning while we gain more daylight.

Daylight Saving Time begins at 2 a.m. Sunday, March 8. On Saturday night,

set your clocks forward one hour to “spring ahead.”

Daylight Saving Time (DST) is the practice of moving the clocks forward one hour from Standard Time during the summer months, and changing them back again in the fall, according to the Old Farmers Almanac.

The general idea is that by

doing so, it allows us all to make better use of natural daylight.

The Old Farmers Almanac says Daylight Saving Time ends at 2 a.m. Sunday, November 1. On the Saturday night before that Sunday, set your clocks back one hour to “fall back” to Standard Time.

www.thechiefnews.com

Friday, March 6, 2020

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Unemployment, tight job market Oregon’s unemployment rate declined to 3.3 percent in January, the lowest on comparable records dating back to 1976, according to the Oregon Employment Department.

The December unemployment rate was revised downward to 3.4 percent. The U.S. unemployment rate was 3.6 percent in January.

Annual revisions to the labor force data show that Oregon’s unemployment rate steadily declined throughout last year, from 4.2 percent in January and February 2019 to the low point for the year of 3.4 percent during each of the last three months of 2019.

The revisions indicate an even tighter labor market than originally estimated, with Oregon’s unemployment rate solidly in the three-percent range for the first time since comparable records began in 1976.

Total nonfarm payroll em-

ployment declined by 1,800 jobs in January, following a gain of 800 jobs in December.

Two major industries added more than 1,000 jobs in January: health care and social assistance (+1,600 jobs) and government (+1,200).

Conversely, three industries cut jobs substantially: professional and business services (-2,900 jobs), construction (-1,400), and manufacturing (3,200’1,200).

Oregon’s nonfarm payroll employment increased by 16,900 jobs, or 0.9 percent, over the year since January 2019. This growth continued the state’s deceleration over the past several years, as annual job gains had been tracking between 1.3 percent and 2.0 percent over the prior year and half.

In the past 12 months, transportation, warehousing, and utilities grew at the fastest rate of the major industries, expanding by 2,500 jobs or

SCHOOLS

being taken, the St. Helens tions, the advisory reads.

School District’s community “Intensity and pace of relations specialist Stacey cleaning will be adjusted as Mendoza replied, “The Orneeded. egon Health Authority in colStaff who are ill should laboration with the Columbia stay home and communicate County Health Department with their supervisor. As is providing us with informa- with any infectious distion and guidance regarding ease, students experiencing coronavirus.” symptoms of illness should Mendoza also sent us a remain home from school copy of the Oregon Health and parents/guardians are Authority’s Coronavirus encouraged to seek guidFact Sheet, which we had ance from their healthcare previously received from provider. For more informathe OHA and placed with tion about the symptoms to our stories about the virus at watch for. thechiefnews.com.

We are working closely On Monday, March 2, with public health officials Mendenzo sent the Chief the to determine next steps following advisory that has should the illness spread to been issued to parents in the our area. If public health district. officials recommend school “The St. Helens School closures, we will announce District is committed to those through FlashAlert, keeping students, staff, and Email, Facebook, our webcommunity safe. The recent site, and our APP. news over the weekend of The novel (new) coroOregon’s first presumptive navirus started spreading case of the novel coronavirus in Wuhan, China, so there (COVID-19) is concerning, have been media reports yet it is important to remain about discrimination against grounded in facts while takAsians and Asian-Ameriing reasonable precautions to cans. Bullying of students safeguard our community. based on race, color, naWhile the spread of novel tional origin, or disability is coronavirus is troubling, we unacceptable in our school must remind ourselves that district.” fear, rumors, and stigma do nothing to stop the further Scappoose Schools spread of the disease. Viruses do not discriminate.

An advisory about the Facts and science, proven coronavirus has been posted public health measures and on the Scappoose School common-sense precautions District’s webpage reading: in our personal lives are the “We are closely monitorbest measures we can take to ing the coronavirus outprotect our community. break. We are working with The best source of inforthe Oregon Department of mation is the Oregon Health Education and public health Authority. Their site also has officials to coordinate a links to the CDC and other response. We have shared resources. Oregon Health resources for our staff, famiAuthority officials continue lies and partners below. to recommend people in OrIf public health officials egon take everyday precaurecommend school closures, tions to prevent the spread of we will announce those many respiratory illnesses, through FlashAlert.” including COVID-19 and With the announcemnt, influenza.”

Scappoose School District’s The advisory includes Meetwebpage also displays an your friends and relax recommendations from theat this Oregon Health Authority classic neighborhood Centers for Disease Control advisory about avoiding the watering hole! to stay healthy (posted atMeet your virus. friends and relax thechiefnews.com) and tells The Oregon Department at this classic neighborhood parents that the district iswatering of Education hole! issued an adviworking closely with staff to sory last week to districts in keep the schools clean and the state about the coronastudents healthy. virus and what preventive “We will be creating steps should be taken at the additional hand sanitizschools.

See that advi11 Beers on Tap • Cocktails & Wine OREGON LOTTERY • Shuffleboard •Chief’s Pool ing stations throughout sory and follow Meetouryour friends andThe relax buildings and will at be using continuing coverage of the this classic neighborhood cleaning supplies compliant coronavirus at thechiefnews. watering hole! on Tap • Cocktails & Wine with CDC recommenda- 11 Beerscom.

From Page A1 Health Authority as well as a Regional Joint Information Center,” Hurowitz said. “Our school nurse is heading up our planning.”

On Monday, March 2, Hurowitz sent out a letter to families regarding the virus as well as a letter to school district staff.

“We are monitoring the situation and getting daily updates from the ODE and the Health department,” she said. “We will follow recommendations as they come in.”

Rainier Schools Rainier School District Superintendent Michael Carter issued advisories last week about coronavirus health prevention and on Monday, March 2, Carter sent out the following: “In addition to our normal, complex cleaning, we have added concentrated disinfection protocols. This includes extra disinfection protocols to all table tops, counters, handrails, door knobs, and other commonuse surfaces in areas that have heavy use (ie classrooms and common spaces).

I have authorized the custodians extra time, and they will be spending a couple of extra hours after school until this health situation changes.

We already have done some special cleaning this morning prior to school.

Please follow all the personal hygiene protocols that I sent you this weekend to ensure that we are not spreading germs: Wash your hands frequently, no hand shakes, use elbow-coughing protocols, allow for extra personal space, and if you are not feeling well, do not come to work. I had to follow my own advice today and stay home.

It is important that we all work together to ensure that our students and staff are as safe as humanly possible.

This is a team effort, and we must all stay vigilant in our efforts.”

St. Helens Schools

3.6 percent. Information also expanded rapidly, adding 1,200 jobs, or 3.5 percent, since January 2019. Software publishers added 700 jobs in that time, accounting for the bulk of gains in the information industry.

Two major industries had January employment levels that were essentially the same as January 2019. Construction (+100 jobs, or 0.1%) is still near a record-high jobs count, but has stopped expanding at the rapid growth pace it experienced in 2013 through 2018.

Similarly, professional and business services (+200 jobs, or 0.1%), which accounts for more than one out of eight nonfarm jobs, has slowed its gains over the past two years.

Meanwhile, three industries shed jobs since January 2019: manufacturing (-3,200 jobs, or -1.6%), retail trade (-800 jobs, or -0.4%), and mining and logging (-600 jobs, or -8.3%).

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Suicide in Oregon Community forum March 11 STAFF REPORT chiefnews@countrymedia.net

A community forum to discuss causes and prevention of suicide will be held from 5:30 to 7 p.m. March 11 at the St. Helens Public Library.

Columbia Health Services is coordinating the community forum.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has released data showing that suicide was the leading cause of death among Oregon youth ages 10 to 24 in 2018, up from the second leading cause of death in 2017.

The CDC reports that Oregon is now ranked 11th highest in the nation for youth suicide death rates, up from 17th in 2017.

In a release, the Oregon Health Authority said the change in rank is due to multiple factors, including a rise in the suicide rate as well as a drop in the rate of unintentional injury deaths, the former leading cause.

The unintentional injury category includes overdose deaths and motor vehicle accidents. While the suicide rate has increased, the unintentional injury rate decreased from 2017 to 2018.

“Suicide continues to be a concerning problem in Oregon across all age groups, including youth, as this new data confirms,” Oregon Health Authority chief medical officer Dana Hargunani said. “We continue to prioritize work across Oregon to support young people in schools, at home and in our communities. Fortunately, we are able to apply best practices that work to prevent suicide, and there are many ways you can get involved.”

The 2018 CDC data is included in the 2019 Youth Suicide Intervention and Prevention Plan annual report, which was released to the Legislature this week.

Advocates and state agency staff have been working to address this growing issue and together requested

dedicated funding for suicide prevention in 2019.

Governor Kate Brown included more than $6 million for suicide prevention in her budget for the 20192021 biennium, marking the first time this work has been funded by the state. The funding is being used to: • Fully fund Oregon’s 24/7 Suicide Prevention Lifeline.

• Create statewide access to proven suicide prevention programming.

• Provide funding to Oregon tribes for suicide prevention.

• Address higher risk groups (LGTBQ youth, veterans, people with lived experience).

• Support school districts to create and implement suicide prevention plans.

• Fund youth peer-to-peer crisis intervention, outreach and youth development through the Oregon YouthLine.

• Add capacity to support suicide prevention programs at the Oregon Health Authority.

Additionally, the Oregon Department of Education and the Oregon Health Authority are collaborating to implement Senate Bill 52 - also known as Adi’s Act - which requires school districts to have a suicide prevention, intervention and postvention response plan by the start of the 2020-2021 school year.

The two agencies are also working together to support school safety, including suicide prevention, which is outlined in the Student Success Act. What can I do?

Join in the efforts. Creating a suicide-safe Oregon is everyone’s work. There are many projects underway in communities across Oregon.

Individual level • Be a trusted adult. Research shows that even one caring adult in a youth’s life is protective against suicide.

• Get trained to recognize signs of suicide. Encourage your workplace, your friends, your faith community to get trained with you.

Community level School districts are working on their suicide prevention, intervention and postvention plan, as directed

by Senate Bill 52. If your school district needs support or resources, staff can contact Lines for Life or call 503575-3759.

Statewide level • Join the Alliance to Prevent Suicide’s work.

• Attend the statewide conference on suicide prevention scheduled for fall 2020. Sign up to receive information about the conference or learn more at the Oregon Suicide Prevention website.

• Join American Foundation for Suicide Prevention Oregon Chapter.

• Join your regional suicide prevention coalition.

For more information If you or someone you know is experiencing a mental health crisis, please know that help is available.

• Call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline run by Lines For Life at 800-2738255, or text ‘273TALK’ to 839863.

• En español: 888-6289454.

• TTY: 800-799-4TTY (4889).

• Youthline is a teen-toteen crisis and help line.

Teens are available to help daily, 4 to 10 p.m. Pacific Time (off-hour calls answered by Lines for Life).

Call 877-968-8491, or text teen2teen to 839863 or chat at http://www.oregonyouthline.org/.

See Crisis Services by Oregon County and a list of crisis lines on OHA’s website.

Good times ROLL at the

Cap and trade at the Oregon Legislature c i r o t Good is times H climate change bill triggered a trade had the majority of STAFF REPORT ROLL at the Republican walkout from the session last week. However, according to media reports, The stalemate over cap and Republican Sen. Tim Knopp trade continues to slow the and Rep. Cheri Helt continued bill passing process this week to attend floor sessions this at the Oregon Legislature in week.

Good times Salem.

The Chief’s online poll ROLL atbetween the LIVE ENTERTAINMENT The division asking if voters should make Music & Magic • Fridays & Saturdays Democrats and Republicans the decision about cap and Cold Beer • gas Micro-Brews • Good Food over the greenhouse

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those voting agreeing that voters should have the final say.

The Oregon Legislature is scheduled to end the 35-day session Sunday, March 8.

Read more about the cap and trade debate and follow late developments about the session at thechiefnews.com.

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Friday, March 6, 2020

•V iewpoints • •

Slow going at the Oregon Legislature BRAD WITT Chief Guest Column

Things are still pretty quiet here in the Capitol as the walk-out continues, and we are unable to move any legislation through the House or Senate Chambers.

Work is wrapping up in committees, and if additional lawmakers return before the March 8 Legislative Assembly deadline we will have legislation ready for consideration in both Chambers.

Coronavirus This week the Coronavirus (COVID-19) is on everyone’s mind. The Pacific Northwest has been hit hard, with the only 9 deaths in the United States occurring in the State of Washington.

Most of those cases were linked to one nursing home in Kirkland, WA and were elderly residents with underlying health issues.

The Center for Disease Control has now confirmed one case in Oregon, but other test results are pending, and Federal Health officials are working closely with the Oregon Health Authority Coronavirus Response Team to aggressively contain the outbreak.

Symptoms of the virus are fever, cough and difficulty breathing. Dozens of people have been tested in Oregon for the COVID-19 virus, and so far, only three have come back positive. Testing is now being done on those people who have traveled to an affected country, have been in contact with someone who has been exposed to the virus and individuals who

are already hospitalized with respiratory illness.

Internationally, a major study of nearly 45,000 Chinese patients found that 81 percent suffered no symptoms or only “mild” symptoms, described as a really bad case of the flu that can be treated at home. About 14 percent of cases were severe, and 5 percent critical.

The greatest concern is for elderly people and also those with pre-existing health conditions.

State, federal and local officials are working together to prevent the spread of the Coronavirus in Oregon by: • Learning more about the COVID-19, including steps needed to prevent, treat and contain it.

• Monitoring people who may have been exposed, making sure they are seen by medical professionals, and encouraging them to stay isolated from others.

• Coordinating with local and tribal public health officials, hospitals and health system to prepare and identify needed supplies, equipment and facility.

• Communicating information daily about COVID-19 on testing, cases under investigation and monitoring.

An informed public is the best defense against the spread of this virus. You can reduce your risk of getting COVID-19 by: • Covering your coughs and sneezes with a tissue, then discarding the tissue, and washing your hands.

• Wash hands often with soap and water or an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.

• Avoid close contact with people who are sick.

• Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth with unwashed hands.

• Clean and disinfect surfaces people often touch.

Take care of your overall health. Staying current on your vaccinations, including the flu vaccine, eating well and exercise all help keep your body resilient.

If you feel sick or develop a cough or fever, stay home from work or school.

Contact your health provider before going in for testing or treatment.

As I mentioned, the Oregon Health Authority is working to keep people informed about this disease, and I would encourage you to visit their COVID-19 web page WWW.oregon.gov/ oha for the latest updates.

You can also follow OHA on Facebook and Twitter.

Please be safe and do the simple things, like washing hands frequently, that protect us during the cold and flu season.

While legislation is currently not moving in either Chamber, my office is here to assist my constituents. If you need help on a state issue or have a concern regarding a state agency, contact my office and we will see what can be done.

Rep. Brad Witt serves House District 31. He may be reach at: • Email: Rep.BradWitt@ oregonlegislature.gov • Telephone: 503-9861431 • Capitol Building: 900 Court St NE, H-382, Salem, OR, 97301 • Website: http://www. oregonlegislature.gov/witt

Weekly Online Poll

Last Week’s Results

What are you doing to avoid coronavirus?

Should voters make the decision about cap and trade?

Limiting my time at public places

Changing my travel plans Washing my hands more frequently

In response to the global outbreak of the Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) and the recent announcement of presumed cases here in Oregon, I want to provide some information to help keep you and your loved ones safe and healthy.

I’m working in Congress on a bill to get robust funding for our state agencies and local health care providers so they have the resources they need to combat and contain the coronavirus. I expect the House and Senate to pass this promptly so we can send the funding where it is needed as soon as possible.

You can sign up for updates and get the most current information on the situation in Oregon from the Oregon Health Authority website. For general information, you can also call 211.

More information and helpful links can be found on the coronavirus page on my website.

Tips to stay healthy Members of our community should continue going about their daily lives while

taking simple precautions like those outlined below to reduce the risk of getting COVID-19.

We are still learning more about how the coronavirus is transmitted, but according to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) most cases are likely to be the result of close contact – within six feet of someone with an infection – or through coughs and sneezes.

The CDC recommends the following: • Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially after going to the bathroom; before eating; and after blowing your nose, coughing, or sneezing.

• If soap and water are not readily available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol.

Always wash hands with soap and water if hands are visibly dirty.

• Avoid close contact with people who are sick.

• Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth.

• Stay home when you are sick.

• Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue, then throw the tissue in the trash.

• March 7 • Columbia Pacific Food Bank Hunger Run 5K/10K Event: 9 a.m. at 1421 Columbia Blvd., St. Helens. Calling all walkers and runners. Sign up to walk or run and help Columbia Pacific Food Bank fund improvements to our future building.

March 11 • Suicide Community Forum: 5:30 p.m. - 7:00 p.m. at the St. Helens Library, 375 S 18th St. in St. Helens.

• Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces using a regular household cleaning spray or wipe.

The CDC does not recommend the use of a facemask for protection against COVID-19 and other respiratory diseases.

If you believe you may have COVID-19, the CDC and Oregon Health Authority recommend contacting your health care provider to determine whether you should come in for examination and testing. Anyone exhibiting symptoms for the coronavirus – or even more common varieties of the flu – should stay home except to receive medical care.

More details about what you should do if you believe you are sick can be found at: https://www.cdc.gov/ coronavirus/2019-ncov/ about/steps-when-sick.html Keeping Calm and Coming Together In addition to taking basic health precautions, it is equally important that we stay calm and get information from trusted sources like the CDC and Oregon Health Authority. Counterproductive rumors and misinformation are already circulating on social media, and we all have

5% No

See how your opinion compares.

Vote online at thechiefnews.com

Bonamici: Stay safe, stay healthy SUZANNE BONAMICI (D) Chief Guest Column

95% Yes

a duty to stop their spread.

Unfortunately, since the outbreak of this disease we have seen a surge of discriminatory rhetoric and violent attacks against Asian Americans across the country. In a public health crisis it is important that we come together as a community and stay true to our Oregon values.

Stereotypes and racist falsehoods have no place in our community. It is also important to note that no group is more or less likely than another to get sick because of their race, ethnicity, or nationality – as the Oregon Health Authority states, “the coronavirus does not discriminate.”

I am actively monitoring the situation in Oregon and will continue to do everything I can to make sure we have the resources we need to protect our communities.

Please contact my Oregon office at 503-469-6010 with any questions.

Thank you.

Suzanne Bonamici serves as a U.S. Representative for Oregon’s 1st Congressional District. She may be reached through her Beaverton office at 503-469-6010.

V oices of T he C ommunity Remove dams from the Lower Snake River During my 20 years as a member of the Lower Columbia River Watershed Council from its inception until 2015, I was painfully aware that the earnest efforts of all the councils in the region to reverse the salmon’s slide toward extinction were insufficient to save these magnificent fish.

I was heartened last month to hear a politician finally say what scientists have known for years: Removing the four dams on the Lower Snake River is key to any serious effort to prevent the extinction

of Snake River salmon and Southern Resident orcas.

I’d like to thank Governor Kate Brown for publicly supporting the removal of the four dams.

We have an historic opportunity to remove these dams and bring back our fish.

And studies show that we can replace the power these dams make without resorting to dirty fossil fuels or breaking the bank. Leadership from Governor Brown, and other elected officials in the Pacific Northwest, will be necessary in the coming months to craft workable solutions for our region.

Darrel Whipple Rainier

Letters Policy The Chief welcomes letters of 250 words or fewer. Letters are subject to editing for length, clarity or grammar. They should be concise, to the point and original. Letters dealing with disputes or containing criticism of private individuals or businesses will not be published.

All letters must be signed (unless emailed) and include the author’s full name, address and daytime telephone number (for verification purposes only). Letters will be published at the editor’s discretion.

Letters also may be published on our website.

Send Letters To: chiefnews@countrymedia.net

•C ommunity C alendar • •

• Columbia County Democratic Central Committee Commissioners Candidate Forum: 7 p.m. at the Kozy Korner, 371 Columbia Blvd., St. Helens.

March 13 • Columbia County Job Fair: 9 a.m. – 1 p.m. at Columbia River Four Square Church, 555 Commons Dr. St. Helens.

April 4 - 13 • 44th Annual Spring Art Show: Call to Artists - The Columbian

Artists Association presents the 44th Annual Spring Art Show at the Red Lion Inn, Kelso, Washington.

This event is open to artists in 2-D and 3-D medial. All work will be juried at entry. Prospectus available at: columbianartists. org. For questions, contact Eileen Thompson at 206-949-9811 or webster9821@comcast.net.

April 14 • Columbia County Local Emergency Planning Committee Meeting: 1 p.m. - 2 p.m. at 58611

The Chief

McNulty Way, St. Helens.

April 18 • Home and Garden Show: 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. at the Columbia County Fairgrounds, 58892 Saulser Rd., St. Helens, OR 97051. Come by and enjoy the Master Gardeners presentations, hear music from the St. Helens Public Library Ukulele Orchestra and see many other vendors. Get your free tickets at The Chronicle, InRoads, Clatskanie PUD and Don’s Rental. $3 admission at the door.

The Chief (USPS 116-360) is published weekly by Country Media, Inc. 148 N. Nehalem St., P.O. Box 8 Clatskanie, Oregon 97016 Periodicals postage paid at Clatskanie, OR 97016

April 19 • Home and Garden Show: 11 a.m. – 3 p.m. at the Columbia County Fairgrounds, 58892 Saulser Rd., St. Helens, OR 97051. Come by and enjoy the Master Gardeners presentations and see many other vendors. Get your free tickets at The Chronicle, InRoads, Clatskanie PUD and Don’s Rental. $3 admission at the door.

April 25 • 10th Annual Rainier Revisited: 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. at Beaver

POSTMASTER: Send address changes to The Chief PO Box 8 Clatskanie, OR 97016

Homes Grange, 31105 Beaver Homes Rd., Rainier. A living history reenactment of Rainier and Northwest History. Step back in time to the year 1853. Hosted by the Rainier Jr./Sr. High School History Club- A chapter of the National History Club. Admission is donation based or a can of food for HOPE (local food bank). For more information contact a club member or, Rainier J./Sr. High School history club advisor Andrew Demko, or email andrew_demko@ rsd.k12.or.us

SUBSCRIPTION RATES: One Year Columbia County & Eastern Clatsop County: $52/year One Year Out of County: $72 $3 senior discount for yearly sub

Contact Us • Phone: (503) 728-3350 • Fax: (503) 308-6791 • Email: www.thechiefnews.com • Editorial Email: chiefnews@countrymedia.net • Advertising Email: atrull@countrymedia.net

Columbia County’s trusted local news source

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Friday, March 6, 2020

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Bluegrass benefit for the Castle

Courtesy photo

The Bloomer Family.

The Clatskanie Arts Commission will present bluegrass music and more at 3 p.m. Sunday, March 15, in a fundraiser for the Clatskanie Senior Citizens’ Castle Capital Improvement Project.

The Fern Hill Bluegrass Band will perform with the Bloomer Family at the Birkenfeld Theatre Cultural

Center, 75 S. Nehalem in Clatskanie.

Tickets for adults are $10. For seniors and students, $8 and for children and under $6. Tickets are available online at clatskaniearts.org or by leaving a message at 503-728-3403.

Opening the afternoon performance will be the Bloomer Family will open

the performance. The Bloomer Family bluegrass band serves up good oldfashioned American music.

The trio is comprised of mother Cindy on bass, son Dillon on banjo, and daughter Melody on guitar. They reside in the Nehalem Valley in the little town of Mist.

Following intermission enjoy the music of the Fern

CASES

evening and on Saturday respectively. Those two presumptive cases are in Washington County.

The Oregon Health Authority’s latest Oregon coronavirus numbers as of Wednesday, March 4 are provisional and change frequently, but here are the current totals: • 115 are still under monitoring • 238 have either completed monitoring or were determined to have no risk • Samples for 13 patients await results • Samples for 45 patients have tested negative for COVID-19 Samples for three patients have tested positive and 2 are still awaiting confirmation from Centers for Disease Control (CDC).

to prevent the spread of many respiratory illnesses, including COVID-19 and influenza: • Cover your coughs and sneezes with a tissue and then throw the tissue in the trash.

• Wash your hands often with soap and water for 20 seconds. If soap and water are not readily available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol.

• Avoid close contact with people who are sick.

• Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth with unwashed hands.

• Clean and disinfect surfaces that are often touched.

Take care of your health overall. Staying current on your vaccinations, including flu vaccine, eating well and exercising all help your body stay resilient.

Consult CDC’s travel website for any travel advisories and steps to protect yourself if you plan to travel outside of the US. Most people with COVID-19 have mild symptoms. If you are feeling sick with mild symptoms and do not need to see medical care, stay home while you recover.

If you are sick and plan to seek care, please call before going in for care so arrangements can be made to prevent exposing others.

For urgent medical needs, call 911.

From Page A1 as a presumptive positive case. The third case is not linked to travel to a part of the world with known cases of COVID-19. It is considered a case of community transmission.

Preliminary reports indicate the Oregon resident attended a youth basketball game at a gymnasium at Weston Middle School, 205 E. Wallace St. in Weston, Ore., on Saturday, Feb. 29.

Under federal Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) guidelines, other spectators who may have been in a closed environment with the individual would be considered “low-risk” exposures.

Athena-Weston School District officials have closed the gym and will conduct a deep cleaning out of an abundance of caution. The gym is physically detached from the rest of the school.

Health officials do not consider the separate school building to pose any risk of exposure.

The test on the sample was performed by Washington’s public health laboratory. The case was one of Oregon’s pending cases.

Oregon health officials have updated their case and testing reports on OHA’s COVID-19 web page.

Oregon and Washington health experts are working to determine if there are other locations where the individual may have interacted with other people in recent days, after symptoms of COVID-19 first appeared. People who may have attended Saturday’s basketball game can call the following numbers if they have questions.

• Oregon residents can call 211.

Washington residents: • Washington State Department of Health: 800525-0127, press # • Walla Walla County: 509-524-2647 This third Oregon presumptive coronavirus case follows two other presumptive cases reported by state health officials late Friday

Governor’s statement “My thoughts are with the Oregonians who have contracted this virus, as well as their families,” Oregon Gov. Brown said in a release.

“The developments of the last 48 hours in Oregon and across the globe are concerning, and we are taking this extremely seriously.”

Brown said that state and local health professionals are working around the clock to identify, treat, and contain each case of the disease.

“My commitment to Oregonians is that our state agencies will be as accurate, transparent, and swift as possible in conveying the information we have to the public, especially when new cases of the coronavirus are identified,” Brown said. “Oregonians have a history of bringing out the best in each other in uncertain times. By staying calm and, yes, by doing the same simple things that protect us during cold and flu season – washing our hands, properly covering our coughs and sneezes, and staying home from school or work if we’re feeling sick we can help keep ourselves and our loved ones healthy and safe.”

Prevention OHA continues to recommend all people in Oregon take everyday precautions

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For more information, contact: • OHA Emerging Respiratory Disease page: www. healthoregon.org/coronavirus • Washington Department of Health: https://www.doh. wa.gov/Emergencies/Coronavirus • CDC COVID-19 page: https://www.cdc.gov/ coronavirus/2019-ncov/index.html • CDC travel notice: https://wwwnc.cdc.gov/ travel/notices • WHO page: https:// www.who.int/westernpacific/ emergencies/novel-coronavirus Follow the developments of the coronavirus in Oregon at thechiefnews.com.

Courtesy photo

The Fern Hill Bluegrass Band.

Hill Bluegrass Band. Guitarist and lead singer Paul Smith from Rainier, fronts the band. Mike Eisler adds the rolling flow of the banjo.

Father and son team Rollie and Brett Champe trade between mandolin and bass and sing in the “high lonesome” tradition. Rounding out the sound is Stew Dodge on fiddle. Vocally the group

performs everything from solos to quartets.

A free open jam will be conducted in the ballroom of the Cultural Center from 1:30-2:30 before the concert. Doors open at 1 p.m.

A stew feed of beef stew, garlic bread and dessert will be available from 5 to 7 p.m. as a benefit for the Clatskanie Senior Citizens’

Castle Capital Improvement Project. Tickets for the dinner are $10 per person payable by cash or check at the door.

For more information about the bluegrass concert, contact Elsa Wooley at 503338-9770. Read more about the Castle Improvement Project at thechiefnews.com.

Job Fair March 13

Organizers of the 2020 Columbia County Job Fair are alerting job seekers and others about the event scheduled from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Friday, March 13, at Columbia River Four Square Church, 555 Commons Drive, in St. Helens.

Many local businesses such as Cardinal Services of St Helens, Worksource Oregon, Pacific Stainless, Berry Global, Avamere and Oregon Health Insurance Marketplace are sponsor-

ing and participating in the upcoming Job Fair, according to a release from Keep It Local Columbia County director Natasha Parvey.

Job seekers will be able to meet both local and regional employers so they should come dressed for success with multiple copies of their resume. Mock interviews and resume tips will be available at the event.

Follow the Facebook event to stay up-to-date with other local and regional

businesses joining the Job Fair. #keepitlocalcc #hirelocal #columbiacountyoregon #careers #jobs #hiring #employers #mockinterviews #resumetips Blog link https:// keepitlocalcc.com/job-seekers-join-us-at-the-2020-jobfair/ Facebook Event Link https://www.facebook.com/ events/2598235796924033/

COUNTY

care in case they’re sick.

On the other hand, we don’t want to spread rumors that can cause harm and increase fear. We want people to remember that a person’s ethnicity or country of origin is not a risk factor for coronavirus.

severe enough, and we don’t have a hospital in Columbia County. If we identified a case, we’d follow the investigative guidelines, which are guidelines for how to follow up, how to prevent further person-to-person transmission. We’d trace that person’s history while they were potentially contagious, who they’d come in contact with, etc., and then we’d start asking those people if they’re sick or have symptoms and we’d monitor them. If they were sick or had symptoms, they’d get a test.

If a person’s symptoms are severe enough to require hospitalization, that’s not really our role, our role is the investigative part.

From Page A1 schools, hospitals, everyone’s receiving consistent messages, they know what we’re doing, we know what they’re doing.

We work 24/7 all the time keeping infectious diseases from spreading, including on coronavirus. This is just another work load for us.

There’s a lot of unknown facts. Cases appeared without a known source of exposure, so we’re taking it seriously. We’ve activated our department emergency operations center, we have not declared a state of emergency and we’re not at that point. We activated the center to monitor what’s going on statewide, and to provide all of the information that all of our county needs We’re just trying to check in with all of our partners, schools, health care clinics, facilities, fire and EMS, businesses, and just making sure that we can answer their questions. We want everyone to take steps to prevent illness and protect others.

The Chief: What else is Columbia County doing?

Paul: We’re also just emphasizing within Columbia County and sending messages to employers to talk with their employees about their sick leave policy and their telecommuting policies and ask employees to get child-

TREE SALE – (RAIN OR SHINE)

WHEN: Saturday, March 14, 2020 at 8:30 am - 1:30 pm WHERE: Lawrence Oil (Pacific Pride) Hwy 30, St. Helens, OR

Columbia County Small Woodlands Association 22 different species of deciduous & conifer trees and shrubs available. Douglas fir, western red cedar, coast redwood, giant dogwood, purple lilac, katsura, and 16 others.

1,000s of seedlings available.

Prices range from $1.50 to $6. Cash and checks only.

Come early for best selection. Questions: (503) 708-9066 Proceeds support best management forestry practices in Columbia County

The Chief: What is the situation in Oregon right now?

For more information, contact Parvey keepitlocalcc@gmail.com, or call 850-377-7867.

Paul: Oregon has three positive cases that the Oregon State Public Health lab has tested and found to be positive, and then sent to the Center for Disease Control (CDC) for confirmation.

There are two in Clackamas County, one in Washington County, and one in Umatilla County.

All of the public health The Chief: What advice agencies in the state are hav- do you want to give to ing to respondETERSEN in some way, Columbia County residents ETERSEN LARKE LLC LARKE LLC even if they don’t have a right now?

AA tt tt oo rr nn ee yy ss case. Every time we receive info that we need to monitor Paul: Don’t post infor(503) 556-4120 (503) a person, we’ve been doing 556-4120 mation if you’re not sure if that, and following the state it’s true. Educate yourself investigative Columbia guidelines, so County’s about what it is, how severe Columbia County’s Premier Premier that takes work and we’re a it is, and what are the sympPersonal Injury Attorneys Personal small department to begin Injury toms. Attorneys ceentakes nse sedd in in OOrreego gonnIf Waash sh ingto gtonyou’ve n LLi icit && you W in with. So certainly, think been more people than we have in exposed to someone with our communicable disease coronavirus, notify us. If team that we may have to your symptoms are severe use people in our departenough, call your doctor ment that aren’t typically ahead of time, don’t just always on investigations. show up, and cover your That’s what it means when cough. Currently the risk to we activate our operations the general public is low, center, we’re at basically a and there is a small number ETERSEN LARKE LLC ETERSEN LARKE LLC level 3 which means a moni- of cases, relatively speaktoring phase. We’re staffing AA tt tt oo rring, nn eesoyytoss minimize spread, it, we’re monitoring it, we’re public health is working. surveilling.

Testing will become (503) 556-4120 556-4120 (503) more available, there’s more The Chief: If you got info on •Wrongful the Oregon Health Accidents •Personal •Personal Injury Injury •Wrongful Death wordAccidents of a coronavirus case Authority website onDeath how to in Columbia County, how prevent getting coronavirus, No Fee Fee Until Until Recovery No Recovery would you respond? available at: https://www. oregon.gov/oha/pages/index. gonn && W Waash shin ingto gtonn OOrreego Paul: It would depend aspx. on how we received the FREE INITIAL INITIAL CONSULTATION CONSULTATION FREE case. There are cases, but Follow late breaking dethere are people that have tails about the coronavirus been traveling, and their in Oregon at thechiefnews. symptoms might not be com.

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Assistant Pool Manger Clatskanie Park & Recreation District, Clatskanie Swimming Pool is now accepting applications for an Assistant Pool Manager position Requirements: High School Diploma or equivalent, Minimum one (1) year pool management, swimming instruction and lifeguarding experience; two (2) years of experience preferred, General management preferred, Ability to obtain National Swimming Pool Foundation certifications for Certified Pool Operator within three (3) months of hire date, Ability to obtain Lifeguard, First Aid, CPR certification within three (3) months of hire date, Knowledge of swimming pool maintenance and operation. This is a permanent position; with a full-time schedule June 15 to August 31 and occasional hours September 1 to

June 14. You can pick up an application at 365 S Nehelem St., Clatskanie, OR. Any questions, please contact Cyndi Warren, 503728-2038.

Applications will not be accepted after 3:00 pm on Thursday, March 31, 2020.

S. Nehalem St. and Clatskanie Elementary School office. Required: At least 2 years Lifeguard/CPR/AED experience.

WSI certified desirable.

Any questions, please contact Cyndi Warren, 503728-2038 OR Becki Horness, 503-3082363. Applications will not be accepted after 3:00 p.m. on Thursday, March 19, 2020.

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Announcements

The City of Rainier is seeking volunteers to serve on’ City of Rainier Budget Committee’ and ‘REDCO Budget Committee’. Applications can be picked up at Rainier City Hall.

Applications due by March 20th, 2020.

VENDORS WANTED 2020 Home & Garden brought to you by InRoads Credit Union and presented by The Chronicle and Don’s Rental.

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Vendors Wanted Clatsop Fairgrounds Saturday March 14th 8AM - 2PM Contact Fred 503-440-9481 or Dorothy 503-468-0006

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Jail Commander Columbia County, OR EOE Deadline 3/16/2020 Apply at ColumbiaCounty OR.gov Support Services Clerk Columbia County, OR EOE Deadline 3/13/2020 Apply at Columbia CountyOR.gov HEAD LIFEGUARD Clatskanie Park & Recreation District is now accepting applications for Head Lifeguard positions. You can obtain and turn in the application at the following locations: Clatskanie Middle/High School Office, Dennis R. Conner, CPA, 365

LIFEGUARD Clatskanie Park & Recreation District is now accepting applications for Lifeguard positions. You can obtain and turn in the application at the following locations: Clatskanie Middle/High School Office, Dennis R. Conner, CPA, 365 S. Nehalem St. and Clatskanie Elementary School office.

Required: Applicant must meet the requirement of being 15 years of age by the last day of the Lifeguard Training/

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Public Notices CC20-1179

NOTICE OF RECEIPT OF BALLOT TITLE Filed in the Office of County Clerk 2/27/2020 NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that an amended ballot title for a measure to be referred by the Columbia County Board of Commissioners has been filed with the Columbia County Clerk on February 27, 2020. A measure election will be held within the boundaries of Columbia County on May 19, 2020. The election will be conducted by mail.

The ballot title caption is: Renewal of Columbia County Jail Operating Levy. Caption Renewal of Columbia County Jail Operating Levy Question Shall Columbia County renew a levy of $0.5797/$1000.00 of assessed value for four years beginning in FY2022 for Jail Operations? This measure renews current local option taxes. Summary In 2014, voters approved a three year levy for all Jail operations.

In 2017, voters approved a four year renewal levy for all Jail operations which will expire in 2020. The three primary funding sources for the Jail are the County’s General Fund, Federal bed rentals, and the existing Jail Operating Levy. Since the 2014 levy passed, the County General Funds support for the Jail has remained consistent. Federal bed rental revenue has also remained stable but is not a guaranteed

CC20-1182

NOTICE OF BOARD VACANCY Northwest Regional Education Service District is seeking candidates interested in filling two elected board positions.

School boards in each zone will vote for an ESD board member by June 30, 2020.

The newly elected board member will take office July

1, 2020, and the term will end June 30, 2024. The positions are based on the following school district residency zones: Zone 1: Gaston, Sherwood, and TigardTualatin School Districts Zone 3: Hillsboro School District Candidates may

apply online at www.nwresd. org under Board of Directors Elections. The deadline for filing is no later than March 31, 2020 at 11:59 p.m.

Questions may be directed to the Northwest Regional ESD Superintendent’s Office at 503- 614-1401.

revenue source. The County cannot fully fund operation of the Jail without renewal of the Levy. Prior to the 2014 Levy, the County was required to reduce Jail beds for local inmates to 25, and anticipated a full closure of the Jail without the Levy.

The operating Levy currently supports a total of 100 local beds, and funding for the constitutionally required food, clothing, management, and health care for inmates.

Renewal of the Levy will pay for continued operation for the Jail through FY 20242025. The estimated money raised will be $3,179,844 in FY 2021-2022, $3,282,306 in FY 2022-2023, $3,388,069 in FY 20232024, and $3,497,240 in FY 2024-2025, for an estimated total Levy of $13,347,459.

Any elector of the proposed district may file a petition for review of this ballot title in the Columbia County Circuit

Court no later than 5:00 p.m.

March 9nd, 2020 (which is the 7th business day after receipt). The challenger must notify the Columbia County Clerk’s Office in writing not later than 5:00 p.m. on the next business day following the day the petition for review is filed (ORS 250.195). This notice is published pursuant to ORS 250.175(5) by Elizabeth E. Huser, Columbia County Clerk

CC20-1184

NOTICE OF ANNUAL MEETING OF THE LANDOWNERS OF THE BEAVER DRAINAGE IMPROVEMENT COMPANY, INC. Notice is hereby given that the annual meeting for the Landowners and Board Members of the Beaver Drainage Improvement Company, Columbia County, Oregon, will be held Monday, March 16, 2020,

at 5:00 p.m. in the Port of Columbia County’s Business Center located at 555 SW Bryant St in Clatskanie, OR. Notice is further given that all proxies must be in writing and signed by the owner.

The meeting is to elect a

director, adopt a budget and any other business that comes before the landowners.

Dated this 28th day of February 2020. Warren Seely, President Beaver Drainage Improvement Company, Inc. Board of Directors

CC20-1180

NOTICE OF RECEIPT OF BALLOT TITLE Filed in the Office of County Clerk 2/27/2020 NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that a ballot title for a measure to be referred by Rainier Cemetery District has been filed with the Columbia County Clerk on February 27th, 2020. A measure election will be held within the boundaries of Columbia County on May 19th, 2020. The

election will be conducted by mail. The ballot title caption is: Five-Year Local Option Tax for Cemetery Operations. Caption FiveYear Local Option Tax for Cemetery Operations Question Shall the Rainier Cemetery District impose $0.05 per $1,000 of assessed value for five years for operations beginning in 2020-2021? This measure

may cause property taxes to increase more than three (3) percent. Summary The Rainier Cemetery District will use the tax revenue from this measure to operate the district at an increased level of service. Without the additional revenue the district will be unable to replace equipment and hire additional part-time staff needed for the daily

operation of the district’s twelve cemeteries. The proposed rate will raise approximately $75,166 in 2020-2021, $81,180 in 2021-2022, $87,674 in 2022-2023, $94,688 in 2023- 2024 and $102,264 in 2024-2025 for a total of $440,972. The estimated tax cost for this measure is an ESTIMATE ONLY based on the best information

available from the county assessor at the time of the estimate and may not reflect the impact of early payment discounts, compression and the collection rate. Any elector of the district may file a petition for review of this ballot title in the Columbia County Circuit Court no later than 5:00 p.m. Monday, March 9th, 2020 (which is the 7th

business day after receipt).

The challenger must notify the Columbia County Clerk’s Office in writing not later than 5:00 p.m. on the next business day following the day the petition for review is filed (ORS 255.155). This notice is published pursuant to ORS 255.145(5) by Elizabeth E. Huser, Columbia County Clerk.

CC20-1173

CC20-1183

NOTICE OF REGULAR MEETING NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING The Clatskanie City Council will meet for a regular meeting on Wednesday, March 11th 2020 @ 7:00 PM in the Clatskanie City Hall Council Chambers, (2nd floor), 75 S. Nehalem St. Agenda items include, but

are not limited to: Approval of the minutes of the February 5th, 2020 regular meeting: a presentation

by Habitat for Humanity; a presentation of the FY 2018-19 Audit; a resolution allowing expenditures from the Scout Lake fund;

a resolution allowing a transfer from the Timber Fund; and the first reading of an Ordinance defining the categories of personal services contracts. An updated agenda will be available at City Hall by March 6th , 2020

CC20-1177

Clatskanie Park & Recreation District NOTICE OF REGULAR BOARD MEETING The regular meeting of the Clatskanie Park & Recreation District will be held on Thursday, March 19, 2020 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

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are not limited to: General park maintenance and pool operations. Board Chair, Andrew Mustola

Pursuant to ORS 477.250, notice is hereby given that a public hearing will be held at the Forest Grove District Office, 801 Gales Creek Road, in Forest Grove, Oregon, on Thursday, April 2, 2020, at 3:00 pm, to receive from any interested persons suggestions, advice, objections or

remonstrance’s to the proposed budget for the forest protection district.

A copy of the tentative budget for the Forest Protection District may be inspected during normal working hours. To ensure the broadest range of services to individuals with disabilities, persons with

CC20-1181

NOTICE OF SALE Rainier Storage Place, LLC will hold a sale at 29098 Dike Rd., Rainier OR 97048 of the contents of the following storage

units belonging to: 8x40 storage containers Jack Miller CY53 at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, March 21st, 2020.

disabilities requiring special arrangements should contact Renae Shippey, at 503-3597424 or renae.shippey@ oregon.gov at least two working days in advance of the scheduled hearing.

OREGON DEPARTMENT OF FORESTRY, PETER DAUGHERTY, STATE FORESTER CC20-1185

BOARD MEETING The Rainier School Board will hold a Regular Board meeting on Monday, March 9, 2020 at 6:30 p.m. in the Rainier School District Board Room, 28168 Old Rainier Rd.

www.thechiefnews.com

Friday, March 6, 2020

A7

•

•O bituaries • • John Fredrick Girt

March 8, 1939 ~ Feb. 22, 2020

Jeremy C. Rurak / The Chief

Columbia County Sheriff’s Office Chief Deputy Ryan Murphy talks with community members during the school safety town hall.See more photos at thechiefnews.com

John Fredrick Girt was born March 8, 1939 in Longview, Washington to Richard Everett and Mary Audrey (Lowe) Girt. He passed away Saturday, February 22, 2020, at the age of 80, at the family home in Onalaska, Washington, after a brief battle with cancer.

He married Christina Merle Dixon in her parents’ Clatskanie, Oregon home on September 15, 1963. John earned his bachelor’s degree in Forest Engineering from Oregon State University, while also serving in the Marine Corp Reserves. He owned and operated Girt Logging Co. and later Girt Enterprise with his son, Mike. John also farmed in Cle Elum and later in Onalaska, raising cattle and making hay.

John enjoyed spending time with his family, and spent hours playing pinochle with them. He also

loved watching his children, grandchildren and greatgranddaughter play sports.

John was a fan of Pac 12 college sports and NFL football.

Another favorite pastime was digging razor clams with his family.

John was preceded in death by his loving wife of 40 years, Christina; and his parents.

He is lovingly remembered by his children,

Marla (Chuck) Miller, Mike (Janelle) Girt, and Marcie (Erik) De Koker; grandchildren, Chris (Kat) Kaut, Trisha (Hank) Robinson, Tyler Kaut, Justin Kaut, Emily Girt, Riley Girt and fiancée, Chyanne, Madison Girt, Jana Girt, Hazel (Anthony) Hackett, Josie (Julian) Rodriguez, Tucker De Koker, and Tanner De Koker and fiancée, Erika; great-grandchildren, Hayden, Savannah and Hudson Kaut, Cecil Robinson, Maci Girt, and Adalynn Hackett; siblings, Jean Sidman and Jim (Dee Dee) Girt; and his special friend, Dee Dee Riffe.

The memorial service will begin at 11 a.m. on Saturday, March 14, at Sticklin Funeral Chapel, 1437 S Gold Street, Centralia. In lieu of flowers, John’s family requests that donations be made to the Centralia College Foundation Scholarship Fund, the Providence Cancer Center, or a charity of the giver’s choice.

Karin Sue (Harms) Dyer Jan. 18, 1948 ~ Feb. 22, 2020

Jeremy C. Rurak / The Chief

Clatskanie Middle/High School Principal Jim Helmen, standing left, and Clatskanie Mayor Bob Brajcich, in white sweater with glasses, listen to community members discussing school security concerns during the town hall.

TOWN HALL From Page A1 $50,000 annually and would be paid for through the city’s general fund.

Several people attending the town hall suggested the school district hire a police resource officer who could be in the school. Those attending the town hall wrote their concerns about school safety on yellow pieces of paper and posted the notes on boards surrounding the commons.

Hurowitz said she’ll incorporate the concerns into the developing school safety plan.

Hurowitz urged those attending the meeting to participate in committees and discussion groups in the weeks ahead to help the school district develop an overall facilities plan that would include security and safety.

“We won’t get to the solution tonight,” she told the

WEATHER From Page A1 Even transporting a backup generator can pose problems, however.

“If the roads are shut down, there’s no medical transport, or if they’re all out on scene, they don’t have a backup generator. The conversation allowed us to go around and say, ‘here’s the situation: what would

gathering. “This is not the end. This is the beginning. We are going to walk away from this town hall with the beginning of a plan.”

Investigators said they were continuing to interview students and school staff to find the suspect or suspects responsible for the school threats.

“Our next step is to determine what type of support we can offer students who might be doing these threats,” Clatskanie Middle/High School Principal Jim Helmen said. “Is it a mental health issue? Are they trying to gain attention?

Do we need to try to improve our cultural strategy? I think peer pressure will help us stop this thought kids having conversation with kids about behavior in school and about not disrupting education.”

Helmen said the school has put in place another of steps to help reach all the students about school safety, including having a motivational speaker present positive

student behaviors and cultural at the schools, an school-wide assembly to talk with students about supporting one another and building positive student character.

“We are making sure kids have avenues to get whatever support they need,” Helman said. “More importantly we are talking about connecting with each other positively and having high expectations with each other, academically and socially.”

Helmen said the school has also launched mental health groups to reach out to any student who might need additional support who might have difficult home lives and other personal issues. The middle/ high school is also using a mental health therapist in the student outreach.

“All of this is to let kids know that they are not alone,” Helmen said.

your agency do?’ It allowed individuals to ask other questions, like, ‘have you thought about this or that?’ It allowed us to collectively help build stronger plans,” Tardif said.

Another problem brought up during the meeting is the difficulty of communication during a county-wide disaster. County representatives briefed county commissioners on such a situation at a meeting the next day.

Columbia County Emergency Management Director Steve Pegram said the topog-

raphy of the county does not lend itself well to good communications for both cell and radio, so to combat that, the county has a few ham radio stations coordinated together, or orange go boxes sprinkled throughout the county where they can stand one up.

Satellite communication devices would not be a good alternative, Pegram noted, because few people have workable satellite communications available to them.

If they do, satellite communications devices are not

Read more about school safety in our community at thechiefnews.com.

Clatskanie resident Karin Sue (Harms) Dyer fell asleep in death Feb. 22, 2020 in Longview, Washington at Community Home Health & Hospice after a brave battle with chronic health issues.

Karin was born in Longview, Washington on Jan. 18, 1948. She was the first of two daughters born to “Dutch” and Susan Harms.

Karin grew up in Clatskanie and graduated June of 1966 from Clatskanie High School.

Two weeks later, on June 18, 1966, she married the love of her life, Jonathan Dyer. After moving from Clatskanie for a couple of years, she and Jon returned with their young children to raise their family on five of the 160 acres Karin grew up on.

Karin was a devoted and loving wife, mother, grandmother, daughter, sister and friend. She adored spending time with her family, especially at Disneyland. She was an avid student and teacher of the Bible and enjoyed talking

Donna Massey

Jan. 30, 1948 ~ Feb. 26, 2020 Donna R. Massey 72 of Rainier, Oregon, passed away on February 26, 2020 at Peace Health St. Johns Medical Center in Longview, Washington.

A celebration of life and potluck will be held at 12 p.m. on Sat., March 7, 2020 at ILWU Longshore Hall, 617 14th Ave., Longview, Washington.

about the hope held out of a peaceful life in a paradise earth. She was known for her loving and giving nature, beautiful smile and her infectious laugh.

Karin was preceded in death by her father Dutch Harms.

Karin is survived by her mother Susan Harms; sister Jerri Grover; husband Jonathan Dyer; children Dawn (Rodney) Smith, Beth (Andrew) McDonald, and Dillon Dyer; 13 adored grandchildren; and one precious greatgrandchild.

A memorial service will be held at 2 p.m. on Sat., March 14, 2020 at the Scappoose Kingdom Hall of Jehovah’s Witness on Paradise Lane in Scappoose, Oregon.

Rick Katzberg Aug. 10, 1956 ~ Feb. 21, 2020

Rick Katzberg, a former resident of Clatskanie, passed away on Feb. 21, 2020. A celebration of life will be announced at a later time.

Donna Drennan

Sharon “Sharri” Ann Poorman

Jan. 10, 1949 ~ Feb. 29, 2020

Sharon “Sharri” Ann Poorman 69, of Rainier, Oregon, passed away on March 3, 2020 in Rainier, Oregon.

Donna Drennan 71, of Warrenton, Oregon, passed away on February 29, 2020 in Astoria, Oregon.

user-friendly and are very expensive.

“The county’s going to take the lead in a disaster,” Pegram said. “the jurisdictions here don’t have [satellite communications]. So we would use it to contact our partners at the state and federal level.”

Also discussed at the meeting was the possibility of using schools as places for mass sheltering and the need to get more climate-controlled storage for sensitive materials.

“The benefit of such exercises allows the county folks to hear what the different jurisdictions do, or would plan to do, in in this type of emergency,” Clatskanie City Manager Greg Hinkelman, who attended the drill, said. “It also allowed us to learn from other non-county agencies such as Red Cross, Oregon Department of Forestry and others as to what they might do.

Hinkelman said such exercises also allow each participant to meet and to get

to know other decision makers of various organizations in the county.

“It is always a good thing to participate in different levels of exercises as it keeps disaster response and preparedness fresh in those of us who have to respond to such things,” Hinkelman said.

The county will participate in two more exercises in the National Exercise Program. The next drill is tentatively scheduled for October 1.

First United Methodist Church 560 Columbia Blvd., 503-397-0061 Pastor Jared Maddox Plymouth Presbyterian Church 2615 Sykes Rd., 503-397-0062 Pastor David Hutchinson St. Frederic Catholic Church 175 S. 13th St., 503-397-0148 Father Nicolaus Marandu The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints 2755 Sykes Road, St. Helens St. Helens 1st Ward Bishop Kent Dery 971-225-8727 St. Helens 2nd Ward Bishop Paul Erickson 971-8134000 Scappoose Ward Bishop Lorin Fielding 503-987-2179 Sunset Park Community Church 174 Sunset Blvd, St Helens Pastor Aaron Hiller St. Helens Church of Christ 295 S. 18th St., St. Helens Pastor Ivan Bissell 503-366-0967

SCAPPOOSE

Oct. 7, 1950 ~ March 3, 2020

•Area Churches••

• CLATSKANIE

Clatskanie Baptist Church 415 South Nehalem St., 503-728-2304 Senior Pastor Kirk Bennett Clatskanie Presbyterian Church 215 South Nehalem Street Clatskanie, OR 97016 Phone: 503-728-2300 Clatskanie Presbyterian Church is a community of Christian faith that expresses a relationship with God, and the Holy Spirit for everyone individually and collectively.

Pastor: Erik Huget Old Testament: Proverbs 2:1-11 New Testament: John 3:1-17 Reading for today: “Meeting Jesus again for the first time” by Marcus Borg Sermon title: “In the presence of the Lord” Adult bible study at 9:15 a.m. on Sunday in the Fireside Room Sunday morning worship at 10:30 a.m. in the Sanctuary Mayger-Downing Community Church

80071 Life Lane, 503-728-2305 Pastor John Thomas St. John the Baptist Catholic Church 100 SW High Street 503-556-5641 Great Vow Zen Monastery 79640 Quincy-Mayger Road, Clatskanie, Oregon 97016 Sunday Morning Program 10am 503-728-0654 Faith Lutheran Church 1010 5th Street, Clatskanie, Oregon 97016. 503-728-4604 Pastor - Mary Anthony

RAINIER

Alston’s Corner Assembly of God 25272 Alston Rd. 503-556-1961 Pastor Steve Berry Nativity Of The Blessed Virgin 204 C St., E Rainier 503-556-5641 Rainier Assembly of God 74950 Rock Crest St., 503-556-8211 Pastor Jeff McCraken

Rainier Community Church of God 321 W C St., Rainier, 503-556-5661 Rainier United Methodist Church Corner of 1st & ‘C’ St., 503-556-3440 Pastor Michele Holloway Riverside Community Church 305 West C Street, Rainier 503-556-1216; Pastor Paul Rice Columbia Bible Church 10:30 a.m. Sunday 407 East Second St. Rainier, OR 97016 Robert Klukas 360-501-4060 Heritage Bible Church, Rainier Senior Center, 48 W 7th St., Rainier, Oregon 97048

ST. HELENS

Ascension Evangelical Lutheran Church 1911 Columbia Blvd., 503-312-1072 Pastor Burkhardt Calvary Lutheran Church 58251 Division Rd., St. Helens

503-397-1739 Pastor: Mark Dennis Columbia River Foursquare Church 555 Commons Drive, St. Helens 503-397-0069 Senior Pastor Mike Cooke Christ Episcopal Church 35350 E. Division Rd., St. Helens 503-397-1033 Rev. Jaime Sanders Columbia Christian Center 235 S 15th St., 503-366-8028 Pastor Terry Luttrell St. Helens Community Bible Church 35031 Millard Rd., St. Helens Pastor Max Snook www.sthelensbiblechurch.org Christian Church 185 S. 12th St., St. Helens 503-397-2151 Pastor Justin Bruner First Lutheran Church 360 Wyeth St. 503-397-0090 Interim Pastor Randy Sinn

Grace Lutheran Church 51737 Columbia River Hwy., Scappoose 503-543-6555 Joshua Wiley Scappoose Foursquare Church 33404 SW JP West, Scappoose 503-543-5069 Pastor Daniel Schmoll St. Wenceslaus Catholic Church 51555 SW Old Port Rd., Scappoose 503-543-2110, Chuck Wood

WARREN

Bethany Lutheran Church 34721 Church Rd., Warren 503-397-2050, Ingrid Aderhold Grace Baptist Church 58690 Ross Rd., Warren 503-397-0405 Pastor Dean Christensen Warren Baptist Church 56799 Columbia River Highway, 503-397-1005 Pastor Randy Thomas Warren Community Fellowship 56523 Columbia River Highway, 503-397-4387, Pastor Cary Wacker

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A8

www.thechiefnews.com

Friday, March 6, 2020

Clatskanie student sports recognized JEREMY C. RUARK jruark@countrymedia.net

It has been a challenging and a rewarding season for Clatskanie Middle/High School winter sports teams.

Lasting through all the tough competition, the Lady Lions varsity girls basketball team reached the second round of the OSAA / OnPoint Community Credit Union 3A Basketball Championships on Thursday, March 4. The game was held right after The Chief went to print, but you can see results online at thechiefnews.com and read more in the March 13 print edition of The Chief.

Clatskanie Middle/High School athletic director Ryan Tompkins gives us his insight into what the winter sports program has accomplished for the students, staff and for the community.

The Chief: Overall, what is your assessment of the winter team sports programs?

Tompkins: We are excited about our winter sports teams.

Basketball has always been a big draw in this town. Any given evening or weekend, the gyms in our district are booked solid with kids playing basketball. We had great participation on the boys side, with a Varsity, Junior Varsity and C Team this year. Our girls are coming off the State Championship last year and have continue their excellence thus far. We are excited about the direction of our wrestling program as well. Zach Davis took over last year and his coaching staff has invested a ton of hard work into our wrestlers. We competed in the toughest District in the State and had a ton of success. Our youth wrestling program continues to blossom. “The Barn” (Old MS Gym) is packed with Youth, Middle School and HS Wrestlers. A ton of kudos go out to the sheer volume of volunteer coaches that go out of their way to support the youth in this town and providing the opportunities that these kids have available to them.

The Chief: If any of the teams make it to State, what would be your advice to the players and the coaches?

Tompkins: Trent Berntsen and Austin Han both qualified for state wrestling. They spent

•

time practicing in preparation for the 12-man tournament this year. We are excited for them and the coaching staff who participated at state in the Portland Coliseum on February 28 and 29.

Our girls have qualified for the state playoffs and they will got the opportunity to return to Coos Bay. From the handful of years that I’ve been involved in our athletic programs, the one piece of advice is to not take anything for granted. Any chance you have to compete at the state tournament is a great opportunity and there’s no guarantee that you will get to make it there again. Stick with what got you there and be excited to compete against the best.

The Chief: Win or lose this season, what do you hope the students take away from their participation in the winter sports?

Tompkins: Student-athlete’s in our building are held to the highest standards of anyone in our student body. The have to be in attendance all day, they have to be passing their classes and be on track to graduate, they spend hours out of school balancing homework/practice/ games. The commitment, dedication and personal sacrifice that a 14-18 year old goes through in order to represent our school on the court/mats is admirable. Win or lose, the lessons and memories of working so hard with your teammates and coaches towards a common goal lasts a lifetime. If it was all about winning or losing, we wouldn’t want to be involved.

Twenty years from now these kids will remember the bus trips, the time spent with friends and the lessons gathered by coaches, not weather they place 2nd or 4th place in the league.

The Chief: Any changes (new coaches, etc) that we should look for in next winter’s teams?

Tompkins: We are very pleased with the efforts of our winter coaches. Between John Blodgett, Zach Davis and Kim Rogers we only have five years of varsity coaching experience between them. Many people may not realize the amount of work that it takes to run a varsity program. The investment of time and resources

•B lotters • •

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.

Rainier Police February 23 • A man described as twitchy with messy hair and a handle bar mustache had been repeatedly causing problems at a local establishment. He was formally trespassed.

• An officer checked on two reportedly suspicious looking men at the car wash. They checked out okay.

February 24 • An employee reported that a male subject that had been trespassed returned. Officers were unable to locate the subject at or near the location.

• Tanner Hart, 23, of Rainier, was taken into custody and lodged at the jail on an outstanding Cowlitz County warrant.

February 26 • A pickup parked on West F Street was reported as stolen.

• A citizen was driving and spotted their child’s bicycle in a field. The reporting party stated the bike was stolen the night before, but had not yet been reported. The child and bicycle were reunited.

February 27 • A caller reported witnessing a fight.

The victim said the suspects were claiming ‘to be getting a debt’ and were pulling the victim’s hair. All parties were separated and the suspects left the scene prior to officer arrival.

• A motorist struck a pedestrian in the parking lot of the post office. The pedestrian was transported with nonlife threatening injuries.

February 28 • A woman reported that her wallet and cell phone were taken while she was playing video poker.

February 29 • A local business reported that an unknown subject attempted to pass a counterfeit $100 bill. The employee was able to detect the bill was a forgery and the business was not victimized.

• A resident reported that someone broke into their home and stole cloth-

ing, jewelry and other miscellaneous items Oregon State Police March 2 • At around 1249 hrs, I was dispatched to Collins Beach on Sauvie Island on the report there was a male standing alongside NW Reeder Rd exposing himself to people as they drove by. The female complainant stated she was driving behind a vehicle which suddenly stopped and parked at Collins Beach #2. The male driver quickly got out of the vehicle ran across the road and as soon as the woman drove by he pulled his shorts down to his knees exposing himself.

The woman said this same thing occurred a couple weeks ago with the same male. When I contacted the man, he admitted to exposing himself to the woman because it arouses him. The man stated he goes out to the island 2-3 times a week and does not even go down to the beach right now as it has been to cold. The man stands near the road and waits for people to drive by and then he exposes himself to get aroused. The man was arrested and lodged in the Columbia County Jail on charges of Public Indecency.

March 2 • At about 2:16 p.m. the Oregon State Police responded to a single vehicle crash on Hwy 30 near MP 49.5 blocking the highway eastbound. Unit #1 (Black Escalade) was towing Unit #1A (double axel flatbed trailer with a full size Chevy van) and lost control going downhill. Unit #1 crashed into the center concrete divider and vehicle being towed partial came off Unit #1A. Hwy 30 eastbound was blocked for about 30 minutes. Unit #1A had no brakes and was overloaded for Unit #1 to tow. There were no injuries and Driver #1 had called Bob’s Towing to respond. Driver #1 was cited for Careless Driving.

March 2 • At about 4:01 p.m. the Oregon State Police and Columbia County Sheriff Office responded to Hwy 30 near MP 25 to the report of a male running out into traffic. After speaking with the 911 caller there was probable cause to arrest the male for Disorderly Conduct.

Hwy 30 eastbound was shut down briefly to take the male into custody safely. The male was transported to the Columbia County Jail where he was lodged.

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by these coaches shouldn’t go unnoticed. The time away from family, their personal money used to buy kids meals and equipment, the countless hours of work in the off-season to help each kids achieve their potential is truly sacrificial.

My personal belief that if every member in our community, at some time in their adult lives, served in public office and as a youth coach there would be great bit more understanding that we could all have for one another.

Follow Clatskanie Middle/ High School sports online at osaa.org, thechiefnews,com and in the Friday print editions of The Chief.

The 2020 Clatskanie Middle/High School varsity girls basketball team.

Photo courtesy of Ryan Tompkins