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FRIDAY, MARCH 18, 2022

VOL. 130, NO. 45

The real story behind the Humps sale Serving the Lower Columbia Region since 1891

ZOE GOTTLIEB chronicle2@countrymedia.net

Editor’s note: Due to a miscommunication The Chief reported in its March 11 edition that a pending sale of the former Humps building had collapsed and there was an unconfirmed report of a new sale. In fact, the original sale was still pending as of March 11. We are happy to set the record straight and present this update.

Clatskanie residents can now release the collective breath they’ve been holding since Humps was first up for sale in 2018, after learning that the centerpiece family restaurant is officially off the market.

The property sold for $575,000 to James Cooke, owner of The Family Stones Estates LLC, ARK Real Estate agent Jenny Erhardt shared with The Chief in a March 15 update.

According to Erhardt, the community can expect remodeling to begin “very soon.”

In a recent Facebook post, Cooke announced his intentions to allow many different businesses to take up residence in the building, including a brick-and-mortar shop, a showroom, a lapidary workshop, paddleboard and kayak rentals, a

tattoo parlor, and a snack, juice, and sandwich bar.

“Its main focus will be a rock and crystal shop,” Cooke wrote in an email to The Chief.

A brief history

The two-story, 12,000 squarefoot structure nestled on the banks of the Clatskanie River along Highway 30, once was a bustling family restaurant and hallmark of the city.

Humps first appeared on the market in December 2018, after former general manager Jeremiah Cameron sealed the doors the previous year, citing struggles with overhead challenges and diminishing business returns.

In a December 2020 edition of The Chief, City Manager Greg Hinkelman said he would like to see the building continue to be used as a restaurant, with the Humps name attached.

“It was a historical landmark in Clatskanie and a destination,” Hinkelman said. “I would like to see that happen again for the city.

It doesn’t have to be a traditional restaurant, a brewpub, or something like that. I would like to see the building occupied and used as a restaurant because that’s what it’s been for 50-60 years.”

Clatskanie Mayor Bob Brajcich and Clatskanie Chamber of

Chief photo

This photo from Aug. 2017 shows the Humps Restaurant just before it closed.

Commerce President Monica Seidl expressed similar hopes for the building’s future. Each said that the property would be an economic

trigger for Clatskanie, drawing locals and tourists to the downtown.

low the development at the Humps site. Look for updates at thechiefnews.com and in the Friday print versions of The Chief.

Easter Egg hunts back in full force ZOE GOTTLIEB chronicle2@countrymedia.net

As more people shed their winter clothes heading into spring, Columbia County event organizers are detailing plans to bring back a highly-coveted Easter tradition.

Clatskanie Kiwanis Club will host their Annual Easter Egg Hunt, which was canceled in 2020 due to the pandemic, for three separate age groups ages 2-5, 6-8, and 9 and up at the Clatskanie High School Field at 10 a.m. April 16.

Rainier Eagles #4022, a local branch of a national charity, will hold its version of the event, the City Wide Easter Egg Hunt, also at 10 a.m. April 16.

In St. Helens, organizers have revamped the mecca of all Easter events in Columbia County.

In 2018, mEGGa Egg Hunt attracted around 3,500 participants to the Columbia County Fairgrounds.

Coordinating the event involves “a lot of logistics,” according to mEGGa Egg Hunt Board of Directors Presi-

dent Heather Epperly.

Pre-COVID, the 22-year-old egg hunting extravaganza featured a petting zoo, face painting, and pony rides, among a wide range of other kid-friendly activities. This year, organizers have had to scale back the spectacle.

“This year, of course, we’re kind of pulled back a little bit,” Epperly said. “We’re hoping next year that we can bring back the face painting and the food booths and some of the other stuff that go along with our events.

But this year, we’re just kind of happy to have a hunt.”

Epperly outlined some of the specific challenges she and her board faced in coordinating the egg hunt for April 16, 2022.

“Going up to it, we were trying to decide what route we were going to go, whether we were going to have a full time or do a drive-thru event like we had done previously,” she said.

“We were trying to decide what was available to us. By the time that it became obvious that the restrictions were starting to lift, we just didn’t

Chief photo

Last year’s traditional mEGGa Egg Hunt at the Columbia County Fairgrounds was conducted as a drive-thru event due to the pandemic.

have enough time,” she said.

According to Epperly, most of the preparation for the mEGGa Hunt happens “six months to a year” in advance. Although COVID-19 regulations have since loosened, organizers

The Chief will continue to fol-

had to prepare for every contingency and lost the necessary time to put on a larger display characteristic of mEGGa events.

“It was really kind of difficult this year, trying to figure out what we could and couldn’t do,” Epperly said.

According to Epperly, organizers had to cut back the time allotted for egg hunting this year, with the event running from 10 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. instead of the usual 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.

However, families can expect to see a wide selection of childrens’ activities brought back this year, such as the coloring contest, scavenger hunt, and prize coin hunt.

“We’re going to place little pictures of bunnies around the fairgrounds for the kids to find, and they’ll have a little sheet that they can mark off (when) they(‘ve) found the different ones,” Epperly said. “Then they turn that sheet in, and we’re going to do a random drawing for winners.”

The Chief asked Epperly why she believes mEGGa has become a deeply ingrained tradition in Colum-

bia County.

“Evelyn Hansen is the mastermind who came up with the event, and this is our 22nd year that this event has been going on,” she said. “She spearheaded it for a long time by herself.

Her main thing was she wanted to have an event that was free that families could come and do,” acknowledging, “It grew over time.”

Epperly said she is new to the event, having joined the board of directors in 2018, but “Once you start doing it, (mEGGa) kind of sucks you in.”

All inclusive Epperly said one of her goals in the coming years is to make mEGGa more inclusive for kids with special needs.

Debbie Ritthaler, special education volunteer and co-organizer of mEGGa, is in charge of the special needs field areas of the mEGGa hunt.

Ritthaler said she and her

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See EASTER Page A3

Patients, staff cope with healthcare delays ZOE GOTTLIEB chronicle2@countrymedia.net

As the national and statewide focus shifts away from COVID-19, hospitals across Oregon and the United States are scrambling to prepare for a new challenge.

Crippling staffing shortages, long appointment wait times, and missed screenings are among the many difficulties compounding the stress of healthcare workers and patients even as COVID-19 concerns decline.

According to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services’ First Quarter of Fiscal Year 2022 report, Oregon’s healthcare systems are serv-

Obituaries ................. A3 Opinions ................... A4 Clatskanie Grows .... A4 Classified Ads ......... A5 Legals ....................... A5 Community Events A6 Sports.........................A6

ing approximately 62% of healthcare needs compared to previous years.

“We estimate it will take at least six months to catch up,” Oregon Health and Science University (OHSU) Senior Media Relations Specialist Franny White said.

Between July and January 2022, OHSU reported performing 1,000 fewer surgical procedures than in 2019, resulting in a backlog that could cause a massive ripple effect in the delivery of critical care.

The ripple effect could include late-stage cancer diagnoses, resulting in less favorable outcomes in cancer treatment down the road, according to the National Cancer Institute (NCI).

NCI modeling indicates 10,000 excess deaths will occur from breast and colorectal cancer between 2020 and 2030, a roughly 1% increase from pre-pandemic rates.

Because some cancers grow slowly, the impact of the pandemic on overall cancer deaths will be unclear for many years, Chief of the Statistical Research and Applications Branch for Cancer Control and Population

Sciences Eric Feuer, Ph.D., said.

Regional health clinics

Without a hospital to manage the flood of patients, more and more OHSU Scappoose patients are using Facebook as an outlet to vent their frustration with long waits for healthcare services.

“Is anyone else having challenges with excessive wait times to get an appointment with your established provider at the OHSU Scappoose family clinic?” one Facebook post reads.

The post shot up in popularity, with 92 comments from other users and many reporting similar experiences.

“I took a nasty fall in October and they (OHSU) told me that I couldn’t be seen till the 22nd of December,” one user wrote.

“They said call back in 2 weeks and we will try to schedule you for

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See HEALTHCARE Page A6

Backlogged Metro Creative Connection Hospitals have had to adjust how they serve patients due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

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Friday, March 18, 2022

‘Deadly’ fake pills trigger public health warning STAFF REPORT chiefnews@countrymedia.net

The deaths of two teenagers in Portland from a suspected overdose of fentanyl has prompted the Oregon Poison Control Center at Oregon Health and Sciences University to issue a public health warning about counterfeit, contaminated opioids in Oregon.

Danger These pills may be laced with fentanyl which can be deadly, according to the center. Fentanyl is up to 50 times more potent than heroin.

It is odorless, tasteless and colorless.

According to the warning, warning pills meant to mimic oxycodone tablets may contain illicitly manufactured fentanyl or other harmful contaminants. These counterfeit pills may be difficult to distinguish from legitimate prescription drugs and are

especially dangerous because of their unknown contents.

Fentanyl, a synthetic opioid that is 50 to 100 times stronger than morphine, is used by doctors to treat severe pain. Fentanyl is pressed into pills that are stamped with “M30,” “E7” or other markers to mimic real oxycodone tablets.

Unlike prescription pills, the amount of fentanyl may vary from pill to pill — and the amount in a single pill can be deadly for some people. In addition to fentanyl, these pills may contain a variety of other medicines, including fentanyl analogs, sedatives and anesthetics that may cause overdose. The presence of fentanyl in fake pills is impossible to detect unless it is tested, according to the center alert.

Prevent opioid overdoses Only consume pills and other drugs that have been obtained from a pharmacy and have been prescribed

to you. These prescriptions should be taken exactly as prescribed by your doctor. It is not safe to consume someone else’s prescription drugs, or anything purchased online or on the streets. Pills from these non-prescribed sources may be counterfeit and contain dangerous ingredients like fentanyl.

The center also recommends active communication — talk with your teens about the risks of substance use. Discuss the risks associated with consuming drugs purchased off the internet, from social media sites or from anyone who is not their health care provider. Look for changes in their behavior, including irregular eating or sleeping patterns, loss of interest in usual activities, or signs of depression or anxiety.

People who use illicit drugs, or whose loved ones use illicit drugs, should take precautions against overdoses, including carrying multiple doses of naloxone,

the opioid reversal drug. Naloxone is available at pharmacies in Oregon without a prescription.

Signs that someone is experiencing an opioid overdose include: • Small, constricted “pinpoint” pupils • Pale, bluish skin • Vomiting or foaming at the mouth • Slow, shallow breathing or, they may appear sleepy or lose consciousness.

Call 9-1-1 right away if someone is unconscious, not breathing or if naloxone has been given. Medical experts at the Oregon Poison Center can help if you or a loved one is experiencing unwanted symptoms after taking pills or using illicit substances.

If you or a loved one is experiencing a poison emergency, call the Oregon Poison Center at 1-800222-1222. A trained health care provider is available

Photo courtesy from Multnomah County

Fentanyl is pressed into pills that are stamped with “M30,” “E7” or other markers to mimic real oxycodone tablets.

24 hours a day, seven days a week. The call is free and confidential. Poison prevention education and other

poison safety resources are available at https://www. ohsu.edu/oregon-poisoncenter.

‘RISE’: State’s pandemic resilience phase launches STAFF REPORT chiefnews@countrymedia.net

Now that the state’s mask requirements have been lifted due to rapidly declining COVID-19 cases and hospitalizations, the Oregon Health Authority (OHA) is kicking off the recovery phase of its pandemic response, with a focus on building community resilience and supporting local decision-making.

OHA has launched RISE: Resilience in Support of Equity, available at Oregon. gov/OregonRise, the state’s pandemic recovery plan.

The plan outlines near-term priorities Oregon will pursue to monitor COVID-19, shield people at the highest risk, reinvigorate communities and repair the state’s social fabric as public health interventions fall away over the coming months.

RISE is a five-point plan aimed at saving lives by strengthening the resilience of people, schools and communities so they can protect themselves from COVID-19. Its goals are to: • Protect communities most harmed by COVID-19, including distributing vaccines, tests and masks to people at risk in priority communities through partnerships with more than 175 local nonprofits, health clinics and other community groups.

• Protect people most vulnerable to COVID-19, including tracking disease spread through wastewater

sampling in more than 40 communities, and maintaining a baseline capacity of vaccines, treatments, testing supplies and laboratory capabilities.

• Expand access to vital health care and support a thriving workforce, including maintaining or expanding health coverage to as many as 350,000 people, and distributing $200 million in workforce development grants.

• Keep schools open for students, staff and families, and help students recover instructional time, including developing a communicable disease management plan to help schools open safely, manage COVID-19 outbreaks and support students’ mental health.

• Restore social cohesion by listening to and supporting the priorities of local communities and sharing steps people can take to protect themselves and others, including offering listening sessions and seeking input on how the state can support communities in building health resilience.

“The pandemic has become like a wildfire we’ve contained but not extinguished, and which therefore continues to pose a risk,” OHA Director Patrick Allen said. “RISE is a plan for managing that wildfire in a way that leverages the ability of communities to fight it at the local level, with support from Oregon’s public health system.”

The plan recognizes the accomplishments of

health issues.

• Partner with more than 175 community-based organizations that have long-standing, trusted relationships with priority communities to provide health and social services to save lives and livelihoods.

• Organize hundreds of grassroots, community-specific vaccination and testing clinics.

• Combat misinformation and disinformation, raising awareness and providing health information through culturally responsive outreach in 12 languages.

Metro Creative Connection

Oregon’s high vaccination rate helped force COVID-19 infections to drop 94% since the peak of the Omicron surge and hospitalizations to drop to pre-Omicron levels, according to the OHA.

residents and communities to help Oregon reach a relatively steady state in the pandemic: More than 8 in 10 people followed sciencebased health recommendations, such as getting vaccinated or wearing a mask indoors in public or limiting in-person gatherings, helping force COVID-19 infections to drop 94% since the peak of the Omicron surge and hospitalizations to drop to pre-Omicron levels, according to the OHA. Oregon now ranks second lowest in the country for COVID-19 cases per 100,000 people; seventh lowest for deaths; a third lower than the per-capita average for hospitalizations; 18th highest in percent-

age of fully vaccinated residents; and 10th highest in percentage of eligible residents who received a booster dose.

But the plan also paints a sobering picture of the health inequities resurfaced during the pandemic, and the historical and intergenerational trauma and systemic discrimination driving them, according to the OHA: COVID-19 infection rates are nearly twice as high for Oregon’s tribal communities and communities of color than for white communities; death rates more than twice as high among these groups than for whites, particularly in tribal and Pacific Islander communities; higher rates of infec-

tion and severe outcomes for older adults and those with disabilities.

In response, Oregon has pursued a multi-pronged strategy to support communities hardest hit by the pandemic and eliminate the health inequities the pandemic has worsened. This strategy includes:

will come from the city’s sewer funds.

failure occurred in January after debris contaminated the clarifier causing a gasket/seal to be compromised.

The plant is reaching the end of its service life and the city is currently in the process of contracting for the engineering

and design of a new plant.

Until the new plant is built, the city continues to make repairs and perform maintenance on the plant to keep it running, according to Hinkelman.

To determine the cause of the latest failure, Hinkelman said the city has

• Ensure equity at the heart of the state’s response, including collaborating with communities to apply an equity framework to policy and operational decisions throughout the pandemic.

• Work closely with local and tribal governmental public health agencies in responding to COVID-19 and other important public

A critical tool RISE will use to accomplish this is Healthier Together Oregon, the state’s health improvement plan. Healthier Together Oregon is a community-driven, statewide health improvement plan designed to mobilize local solutions that address social factors affecting community health, such as access to housing, livingwage jobs, quality education and affordable healthcare.

Through Heathier Together Oregon, community-generated priorities and strategies will inform the way health officials invest resources in coming months and beyond.

“Healthier Together Oregon is how we will eliminate health inequity,” Allen said. “Its vision is that our state will be a place where everyone in Oregon can achieve health and wellbeing throughout their lives, long after the COVID-19 pandemic is in our rear-view mirror.”

Diver to investigate sewer plant failure An ongoing problem

Chief photo

This photo depicts the wastewater treatment facility in Clatskanie.

JEREMY C. RUARK jruark@countrymedia.net ZOE GOTTLIEB chronicle2@countrymedia.net

Clatskanie is commissioning a diver to determine the root cause of the latest sewer plant failure in Clatskanie.

According to Clatskanie City Manager Greg Hinkelman, Clatskanie had contracted with a company to send a diver into the waste-

water at the facility Thursday, March 17, to inspect the clarifier seal designed to contain effluent during the sewage treatment process.

Engineers were scheduled to come to the wastewater treatment facility the previous day to see whether the screens for the headworks mechanism, which is supposed to remove debris, have failed.

The project’s cost was not finalized by press time. Hinkelman said the cost of the dive and repairs to the plant

Columbia County’s trusted local news source

“We don’t know the cause yet but we are investigating,” Hinkelman said in an earlier interview with The Chief.

As a result of the failure, the plant is unable to properly treat the water causing the E.coli levels being discharged into the Clatskanie River to be above permitted levels, Hinkelman said in a release.

Until the failure is resolved, the city, in cooperation with Columbia County, has closed boat ramps at the Beaver Boat ramp site and the Clatskanie City Park until further notice.

The city also encourages people to stay out of the Clatskanie River and not conduct any water activities until the repairs are complete.

The Oregon Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) is aware of the latest plant failure, according to Hinkelman, and has been advising the city.

“We will let the public know when the E.coli levels have returned to normal once the repair to the plant has been completed,” Hinkelman said.

History The last wastewater plant

contracted with a specialty commercial vendor to conduct the failure diagnosis which will be conducted the week of March 14-18.

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

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Friday, March 18, 2022

Council lays groundwork for spring projects The scope of work is wide for Rainier city officials heading into spring, with plans to update Rainier parks, ordinances, and the urban growth boundary.

in the community. It’s something that I’m personally very proud of, and this just takes it to the next level.”

The third and final bridge building phase of the project is covered by an $80,000 grant from Cowlitz/Wahkiakum Council of Governments.

Parks projects

City ordinances

Rainier Public Works Director Sue Lawrence’s goals include finalizing work on the Riverfront Trail, installing a new gazebo in the city park, and improving city hall, water, and wastewater treatment systems.

In August, The Chief reported that volunteers and Rainier city staff members stripped the bridge in anticipation of the third phase of the Riverfront Trail development.

“We’re going to be taking that bridge and using it to connect the riverfront trail to the park,” Rainier City Administrator Scott Jorgensen explained of the project.

Phase three will involve buttressing on either side of Fox Creek. “(The bridge) has been a community goal for a long time,” Jorgensen said. “The riverfront trail as it exists now through the second phase has gone over (well)

According to Jorgensen, Rainier City Council will address the issues surrounding city ordinances at a public hearing sometime in May. “Code enforcement’s been a big thing because there’s no teeth in our ordinances,” he said. “I took an ordinance from St. Helens that sets forth the process and penalties.”

Jorgensen also added that code enforcement for RVs and trailer use, which The Chief reported on back in February, still poses a challenge in Rainier.

ZOE GOTTLIEB chronicle2@countrymedia.net

•

Urban expansion Rainier sits on 250 acres of uninhabitable land, Jorgensen said, and city officials are deliberating over a land swap which might provide more reliable land for propping up housing.

Back in February, Jor-

Courtesy photo from Scott Jorgensen

This shows the Rainier Riverfront Trail Bridge before the community work project to ready the structure for Phase 3 of the trail project, which is a key element of the city’s overall goals.

gensen provided written and oral testimony to the House Housing Committee in support of a bill that would allow Rainier to adjust the urban growth boundary.

“The city’s urban growth boundary was drawn in the 1980s,” Jorgensen said.

“We’re only allowed to develop on cliffs. So, there are definite geographic challenges, and that’s why I wanted to be able to move it to more flat land.”

Master plan and federal funding Rainier Parks and Recre-

ation Committee is looking to secure funds for more family-friendly amenities outside the city’s budget.

Following the results of a communitywide survey, a splash pad, dog park, and putting green were a few such examples highlighted by the council.

“We think we might have enough money in the current fiscal year budget to fund a park master plan,” Jorgensen said.

Jorgensen and Lawrence discussed the projects during the Rainier City Council’s goal setting session earlier this month.

Courtesy photo from Scott Jorgensen

The Rainier Riverfront Bridge following the community renovation project.

•O bituaries • • Delores Brown

April 15, 1941 ~ March 7, 2022

Delores Brown was born on April 15, 1941 in Lewistown, Montana to Albert and Sylvia Grube. She graduated from Moore High School in 1959.

She married Abraham Brown on Oct. 3, 1959 and moved to the local area in

1959. Delores was a home maker who loved the outdoors as well as raising multiple different types of birds.

She was an animal lover of all kinds.

She was preceded in death by her brother Richard in 2010.

She is survived by her husband Abe at home; and two nieces in North Carolina, Christina (Leonard) and Laura.

A service was held at 5 p.m. on Thurs., March 17, 2022 at Groulx Family Mortuary.

Donald Andre Baisley

Jan. 24, 1937 ~ March 1, 2022

Donald Andre Baisley, age 85, passed away March 1, 2022. Donald was born on Jan. 24, 1937 in Astoria, Oregon, along with his twin sister Dorothy Anne, to Martin and Emma Baisley.

He grew up in Taylorville, Oregon and graduated from Clatskanie High School in 1954.

He was a dedicated employee to Burroughs Corporation, now Unisys, for 40 years in Portland, Oregon, San Jose, California, Eugene, Oregon, Detroit, Michigan and Plymouth Landing, Pennsylvania where he retired in 1996. Donald enjoyed music, reading and playing cards.

Donald is survived by his wife Mary Lou (Miller) of

66 years; children, Deborah Elizabeth Baisley of Colorado, Karen Susanne (Mark) Hoover of Monroe and Christie Annette (Adriano) Paciocco of South Lyon; grandchildren, Marisa

Andrea (Patrick Qarana) Paciocco, Tania Maria (Jeannot Farah) Paciocco, Eric James (Amanda) Hoover, Jaclyn Susanne (Robert Moelich) Hoover, Gabriele Roberto (Anna Maria) Paciocco, and Michael Thomas Hoover; and great grandchildren, Annalia Annette Qarana, Liam James Hoover, Gabriella Evon Qarana, Salvatore Patrick Qarana, Cristiano Jeannot Farah, Olivia Danielle Hoover, Gemma Maria Farrah, Mayla Susanne Moelich and Kenna Lou Moelich.

He is preceded in death by his parents and sister Mary.

A memorial service was held on March 7, 2022 at Phillips Funeral Home in South Lyon, Michigan.

Warren Edward Dines

March 30, 1943 ~ March 10, 2022

Warren Edward Dines, formerly of Clatskanie and St. Helens, died March 10, 2022 at a Beaverton Hospital.

Warren was born March 30, 1943, in Portland to Houston and Katherine Dines. He was raised and attended school in Caldwell, Idaho, graduating in 1961.

He served in the Navy from 1962-1966. After the Navy he worked at the Wauna Mill until retiring in 1999.

He and Etta were married March 16, 1965, in Portland.

They raised their three children, Lonny, Guy, and Amy in Clatskanie. Warren was proceeded in death by Etta

on August 15, 1997.

Survivors include Laura Parrish, his partner of 22 years, at home; her daughters, Heather and Linda Parrish, of Portland; daughter Amy Nelson of Scappoose; two sons, Guy Dines and Lonny Dines, both of Clatskanie; three sisters, Karen McLaughlin of Green Valley, Arizona; Janet Rash of Oceanside, California; and Cheryl Faris of Spokane, Washington; two brothers, Dennis Dines of Homedale, Idaho, and Ron Dines of Caldwell, Idaho; five granddaughters, Katelyn Dines, of Clatskanie; Ashlyn Hocking, of Portland; Shelby Kran-

yak, of Bend; Jocelyn Dines, of Portland; and Isabella Nelson, of Scappoose; two grandsons, Wade Nelson, of Culver, and Gus Nelson, of Klamath Falls; five greatgranddaughters; and two great-grandsons.

A viewing will be held from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m., Fri., March 18, 2022 at Groulx Family Mortuary, 25381 Wonderly Road, Rainier, Oregon, followed by a graveside service at 12:30 p.m. at Murray Hill Cemetery, 90 SW Hall Road, Clatskanie, Oregon. Memorials are suggested to the Columbia Pacific Food Bank in St. Helens, cpfoodbank.org.

EASTER

fulfill various duties, including greeting and saying goodbye to guests at the fairgrounds, as well as supervising the egg hunting grounds.

Epperly said finding volunteers has been challenging.

“We get a lot of people that want to put the candy out. A lot of people just want to show up the day of and put candy in the fields,” she said. “Finding volunteers is probably the hardest part of all of it.”

Each year mEGGa Egg Hunt is supported by a consistent network of sponsors, Epperly said, allowing children and families to attend free of charge.

Epperly said the egg hunt

is an opportunity for working parents to “have a fun time and not have to worry.”

“Lots of times parents are on a budget and they will avoid events if they think, ‘oh, my kids are going to ask to go on that ride and we can’t afford to do that.’ This kind of thing makes sure that they come and that they feel comfortable. They don’t have to worry.”

The mEGGa Egg Hunt will take place at the Columbia County Fairgrounds, located on 58892 Saulser Road in St. Helens.

From Page A1 husband gain a lot of satisfaction from watching kids with different abilities join in on the fun.

“It’s just awesome to see them be able to participate and be able to do with the other kids are doing but in a protected environment for them,” she said.

Volunteers needed Epperly said she needs around 15 volunteers for this year’s mEGGa Egg Hunt to

For more information, call 971-312-4743.

The Chief

Read the news online at www.thechiefnews.com Columbia County’s trusted local news source

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•

Friday, March 18, 2022

•V iewpoints • •

Remember farmers and ranchers ANNE MARIE MOSS Chief Guest Column

In recognition of National Ag Day, March 22, the Oregon Farm Bureau invites readers to remember the importance of farmers and ranchers to their daily lives.

Because of the productivity, efficiency, and reliability of agriculture producers, many of us don’t have to give a second thought to where our food comes from.

As long as the grocery store shelves are stocked, the origin of food is the furthest thing from our minds.

So, who are Oregon’s farmers and ranchers?

There are 67,595 farmers and ranchers in Oregon, according to the latest U.S. Census of Agriculture. Their average age is 57.9 years and 44% are women. Despite representing less than 2% of the state population, these families contribute enormously to Oregon’s econo-

my, landscape, and quality of life.

While inflation has driven up the cost of food, Oregon’s farmers and ranchers are not getting richer. After accounting for input costs, ag producers receive an average of only 8 cents out of every dollar spent on food at home and away from home. The rest goes for costs beyond the farm gate: wages and materials for production, processing, marketing, transportation, and distribution.

Price-takers As “price-takers, not price-makers,” most farmers and ranchers also have no control of the price they get for their products. A farmer is not like a shoe retailer who can simply increase a price tag in a store to offset increased supply costs.

These are businesses that sell their goods through domestic or international commodity

•

markets, which determine the product’s price. Some farmers don’t know until months after delivery what they’ll get for their harvest.

Another factor that distinguishes agriculture from other industries is the fact that 97% of Oregon farms and ranches are family owned and operated. What other sector can boast that level of family ownership?

The Oregon Century Farm & Ranch Program has recognized 1,247 farms as remaining operational and in the same family for at least 100 years, and it has bestowed 47 farms with a Sesquicentennial award for reaching the 150-year mark.

Few jobs involve wearing so many hats. Besides tending to their crops and animals, farmers and ranchers are businessowners, marketers, agronomists, climate scientists, mechanics, breeding specialists, pest experts, purchasing officers,

market forecasters, water administrators, accountants, human resources leads, risk analysts, and 24/7/365 optimists at the same time.

Most farmers can’t afford to hire consultants to do these things for them; they simply figure them out and do it themselves.

Innovators

Farmers are also innovators. For a sector that’s based on the most basic of components – soil, water, sunlight – farmers and ranchers are frequently early adaptors to technology. They’re continually looking to produce more with less: less water, less fertilizer, fewer pesticides, less fuel. This means using drones to check field health, smartphone-controlled irrigation systems, GPS-driven tractors, or sophisticated sprayers that control chemicals down to the droplet.

And whether a farm is or-

ganic, conventional, biotech, no-tech, or a combination thereof, ag producers have more that unites them than divides them.

One commonality is an unshakeable respect for, and love of, the land. When your livelihood directly depends upon healthy soil and ample water, you do what it takes to preserve it. To squander natural resources or harm the environment would make no sense, especially when you live where you work. It also would be against the law.

Another binding trait is an immense pride in their product. While there are innumerable state and federal laws that ensure food safety, no one cares more about the quality of the end product than does the family who raised it. This goes for nonedible crops, too, like nursery products, hay, grass seed, and Christmas trees.

The unparalleled commitment to quality has elevated

the international status of Oregon agriculture, and consumers around the world seek out Oregon-grown blueberries, wheat, and grass-straw.

Love of lifestyle

A third shared value is love of the lifestyle. Talk with farmers and ranchers about what they like most about their jobs and you’ll hear “being your own boss,” “being outdoors,” “growing something from nothing,” and “every day is different.”

This year March 22 is National Ag Day, but we at Oregon Farm Bureau urge you to remember and thank farmers and ranchers all year long.

Anne Marie Moss is the communications director at the Oregon Farm Bureau.

She may be reached at annemarie@oregonfb.org or at 503-399-1701.

•C latskanie G rows • •

Clatskanie Grows: March gardening notes CHIP BUBL Chief Guest Column

One slug may mean 800 more: A single slug may lay as many as 800 eggs in their two to three years of life. The two slugs that do garden damage are not native but then, I guess most of our vegetables aren’t either. Anyway, control starts now.

Slugs are actively breeding. Baits with iron compounds are considered safer for birds and pets and work reasonably well. The metaldehyde baits are quite pet toxic (mostly a dog issue since some dogs will eat almost anything) but if you don’t have pets, they are very effective. You can also chop slugs if you lay down boards or other cover for them at night and remove the boards (revealing the slugs) in the morning, with your hoe handy. This can be quite an efficient control tactic if practiced regularly and the “boards of death” are spread around your vegetable garden.

We are about two weeks from the average date (March 28) of our last killing (28) frost: This is the time to plant beets, broccoli, Brussels sprouts, cabbage, carrots, cauliflower, celery, chard, kohlrabi, parsnips, early potatoes, and turnips.

However, rain is likely to persist for several weeks. So, this planting advice is fine for raised beds, but it isn’t the right time to till soil. Digging soppy wet soil is no fun for

you and not good for the soil.

If you can cover parts of your garden with clear plastic, it will warm the soil and keep it drier. It might be enough to allow you to prepare soil in those covered areas earlier.

By the way, did you know parsnip seeds can take 28 days or more to germinate?

The warmer the soil, the happier they are. All vegetable seeds respond well to warmed soils. We still have some row covers left that help keep the seedlings warmer after emergence. Call us for information at 503-397-3462. At the end of the month, you could plant early tomato transplants. Or you could buy your tomatoes at the Spring Fair.

Why don’t apricots do well here? Apricots are early bloomers. Nearly seven out of ten years, frost kills the blooms. When that doesn’t happen, you get the ultimate prize, a delicious tree-ripened apricot. But there is another reason to pass on apricots here. They are very susceptible to bacterial canker which, once it infects the tree will kill the tree. It is almost impossible to prevent or to effectively treat. Best location for an apricot would be in full sun with excellent air circulation. That combined with lots of luck could give you apricots every three years or so.

Events Local bee group meetings From 1 p.m. to 3 p.m.

Saturday, March 19 at Chief

Concomly Park in Scappoose under the gazebo, Carolyn Breece from Oregon State University Honeybee Diseases Lab will present a workshop. It is free but preregister is required. Register at columbiacountyoregonbeekeepers@gmail.com.

Saturday, April 2, the Bee Group will host a fullday Bee Class from 9 a.m. to noon indoors and in the afternoon with beehives at the Extension office in St. Helens, 505 N. Columbia River Highway. Cost is $50 which will also give you a year membership in the group. Use the same email above to get more information and to

register.

On Thursday, April 7, at 6 p.m. there will be a free Zoom event with Paul Stromberg, President of Portland Metro Beekeepers.

He will talk on queen rearing for backyard beekeepers and as a sideline commercial beekeepers. To get the Zoom link, email columbiacountyoregonbeekeepers@gmail. com.

Foraging wild foods presentation

This program by Chip Bubl, OSU/Columbia County Extension Agent, was held on March 16, at 6:30 p.m. at the Scappoose Library. It also was streamed on Zoom. For information on the Zoom link email staff@scapooselibrary.org.

Scappoose Bay Watershed Council Native Plant Sale April 9 Join the Watershed Council at their Spring Native Plant Sale from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday, April 9, at the SBWC nursery, located behind

Clatskanie Grows

Scappoose High School.

Look for signs, go east on SE High School Way and turn into the parking lot between the high school and the school ball field areas. This is their semi-annual event to get you ready for spring and summer planting. They have lots of new plants at great prices, all native to our area. Staff and volunteers are available to

help choose plants suggest gardening ideas and provide information on establishing and maintaining native vegetation. For more information see https://www.scappoosebay-wc. org/native-plant-nursery.

The Columbia County Home and Garden Show The Columbia County Home and Garden show returns after two years. It will at the Columbia County Fairgrounds, 58892 Saulser Road in St. Helens April 23 and 24. See more information at thechronicleonline.com/2022_ columbia_county_oregon_ home_and_garden_show and watch for more details soon.

The Columbia County Master Gardener’s Spring Fair Will also return after two years. It will be from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday, April 30.

There will be 3,000 tomato plants, peppers, and gardenrelated items by other vendors.

It will be at the Columbia County Fairgrounds since St. Helens High School is undergoing major renovations.

Important notes The OSU Extension Office is now fully open.

Donate produce and/or money to the food bank, senior centers, or community meals programs. It is greatly appreciated.

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

Have questions?

If you have questions on any of these topics or other home garden and/ or farm questions, please contact Chip Bubl, Oregon State University Extension office in St. Helens at 503397-3462 or at chip.bubl@ oregonstate.edu. The office is open from 8 a.m.-5 p.m.

Monday through Friday.

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

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

Are you putting up salsa, saving seeds, or thinking about planting grapes? OSU has a large number of its publications available for free download. Just go to https://catalog.extension. oregonstate.edu. Click on publications and start exploring.

Contact information Oregon State University Extension Service - Columbia County, 505 N. Columbia River Highway, St. Helens, OR 97051, 503-397-3462.

The Chief

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

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

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

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

Weekly Online Poll What are you most excited to see at the former Humps building?

Rock and gem shop Kayak and paddleboard rentals Tattoo parlor Snack/sandwich/juice bar

Last Week’s Results Are the increasingly higher gasoline prices making you alter your driving habits?

69% Yes

31% No

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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 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.

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.

Friday, March 18, 2022

Marketplace

A5

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

Just call 503-397-0116

Listings are updated daily at www.thechiefnews.com

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Events

Call to artists!

Spring into Art May 14, 5-8 P.M. Entries accepted May 14, 9-11 A.M. at St. Helen’s Community Center.

See website for details: Columbiaartsguild.com or call 503-369-1081.

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Events

PippinDoc, Clatskanie’s Veterinarian Our next Dog & Cat Vaccination Clinic is Thursday, March 24th, 9:00 to 11:30 am, and then 1:30 to 3:30 pm at Johnson Feed Store.

905 NE Van St, In Clatskanie. Follow us on Facebook.

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Help Wanted

Pool Manager Clatskanie Park & Recreation District is hiring a Pool Manager Clatskanie Park & Recreation District is

502

502

502

502

Help Wanted

Help Wanted

Help Wanted

Help Wanted

Help Wanted

now accepting applications and resumes for a Pool Manager. Responsibilities: Train, manage and evaluate approximately 20 lifeguards; beginning in February and continuing into September. Plan, organize and schedule programs offered at our seasonal outdoor pool.

Be responsible for scheduling adequate staff for the safety, supervision, cleanliness, water chemistry and mechanical operation of the pool for youth and families in our District.

Maintain pool and employee records.

Perform such other duties as assigned by the District Manager and/or Board of Directors from time to time.

Knowledge and Skills: Strong administrative skills, recreational aquatic programming skills, leadership and managerial skills, pool maintenance and water chemistry skills

and good public relation skills are a must. Thorough knowledge of policies, procedures and equipment used in daily outdoor pool operations helpful. Work with pool related chemicals and be familiar with State and Federal regulations regarding outdoor pool operations.

Experience and Training: Experience preferred. Or the willingness to work within an agreed upon time frame between applicant and Board of Directors to obtain the required and suggested certifications for the position; First-Aid, CPR, AED certifications, Lifeguard Instructor and Training, Water Safety Instructor and CPO (Certified Pool Operator) certifications. You can request an application by phone at 208-249-7144 or by email at warren. cyndi@yahoo.com Applications and

resumes can be returned by mail to: Clatskanie Park & Recreation District, PO Box 737, Clatskanie OR 97016 or by email to warren. cyndi@yahoo.com.

If you have any questions, please contact Cyndi Warren, 208-249-7144.

Applications with resumes will be accepted until 5:00pm on Thursday, March 31, 2022

sociation is currently seeking a maintenance contractor to operate Quincy Water System.

Contractor must be able to obtain and maintain ‘Small Water Operator’ certification with the state of Oregon and adhere to DHS-OHA Small Water System manual and all state regulations for small water systems. Email for details: cmalisch@ q u i n c y w a t e r. o r g Interviews/system tours will be conducted during the month of March/ April.

letter, resume and application. Applications accepted through April 4, 2022 and can be dropped off at City Hall, emailed to sblodgett@city ofrainier.com, or mailed to City of Rainier, PO Box 100, Rainier, OR 97048, Attn: Office Manager

Columbia 9-1-1 Communications District (C911CD) is conducting a hiring process for fulltime Dispatchers (Communications Specialists). Additional information and job description can be found on our website at www.columbia911. com/careers or by calling 503366-6978. Online applications will be accepted until 11:45pm on March 31st, 2022.

Maintenance contractor Quincy Water As-

Utility Billing Clerk The City of Rainier is accepting applications for the full-time position of Utility Billing Clerk.

Salary DOE plus benefits. Applications and job description can be obtained at www. cityofrainier.com or at City Hall, 106 West B St., Rainier, OR. Submit cover

860

Storage

CLATSKANIE Mini Storage

TFT construction Inc. has multiple openings we are looking to fill. We offer competitive pay, Health insurance and 401K. Please stop by the office at 53990 West Lane Road in Scappoose, or email your resume to jason@tftconstruction.net.

Asphalt Paving Division: Laborers, Asphalt Raker, Roller Operator Excavation Division: General Laborers, Heavy Equipment operators, Pipe – Layers, Pipe – Laborers Trucking Division: Dump Truck Drivers – Truck & Pup and Super solos https://tftconstruction.net

Hoarder’s Paradise!

20 sizes, Inexpensive RV Storage, Carports, Hand trucks, Locks, Fully-lined, Insulated, Condensation free, all units lit. On-site Manager

503 728-2051 503 369-6503 Visa/MC/Amex

Public Notices

PROTECTING YOUR RIGHT TO KNOW

CC22-1596

WE’RE HIRING!

Head Start Needs YOU! Community Action Team Head Start is hiring in Columbia County!!

We provide: • Medical, dental, vision and life insurance benefits • Personal and sick leave • Balanced work schedules • A culturally respectful work environment We have career opportunities for a Teacher, Assistant Teacher, Cook, and Custodian.

Contact JoAnne Dodge at 503-397-4114, jdodge@nworheadstart.org; or Dawn Crawford at 503-556-3736, dcrawford@nworheadstart.org

CC22-1593

OF PUBLIC HEARING SCHOOL DISTRICT ACCEPTING NOTICE Pursuant to ORS tions, advice, objections or disabilities requiring special 477.250, notice is hereby remonstrance’s to the proarrangements should contact COMMITTEE APPLICATIONS given that a public hearing posed budget for the Forest Renae Shippey, at 503-359The Clatskanie School District 6J Board of Directors is accepting applications from patrons interested in serving on the budget committee. Two-two year positions (expiring 6/30/24) and one-one year positions (expiring 6/30/23) are available.

You can pick up an application form at the Clatskanie School District Office, 660

Bryant Dr, or online at csd. k12.or.us. Please return applications to the District Office by 3:30 pm on April 14, 2022. The budget committee meeting dates are May 9, May 23, and June 13 (if necessary). Selected candidates must be qualified voters of the district. Officers, agents, or employees of the district are not eligible. Applications

may be submitted to Shannon Emerson, Clatskanie School District 6J, PO Box 678, Clatskanie OR 97016 or email semerson@csd.k12. or.us. Questions regarding services required in terms of time and responsibility may be directed to Shannon Emerson at 503-728-0587, ext. 2003, or to any board member.

will be held at the Oregon Department of Forestry, Forest Grove District Office, 801 Gales Creek Road, in Forest Grove, Oregon, on Monday, April 4, 2022, at 3:00 pm, to receive from any interested persons sugges-

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

7424 or 503-530-0271, or by email at renae.shippey@ odf.oregon.gov at least two working days in advance of the scheduled hearing. OREGON DEPARTMENT OF FORESTRY, CAL MUKUMOTO, STATE FORESTER

The Public Notice deadline is Wednesdays by noon.

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

STATEPOINT CROSSWORD THEME: WHO AM I? ACROSS

1. Campus military org.

5. Pilgrimage to Mecca 8. 1968 hit “Harper Valley ____” 11. Turkish honorific 12. *I captained the Millennium Falcon in “Star Wars” 13. Inlet in Greenland 15. Map out 16. Pharaoh’s symbol 17. Austin Powers and Shrek to Mike Myers 18. *I developed the theory of relativity 20. Sailor’s hail 21. Lyric poem 22. Solar System center 23. Portable stairs 26. *I am Sgt. George Baker’s inept comic strip character 30. Mine deposit 31. Shape 34. Fairy tale cannibal 35. Feline sneakers 37. Lawyer group 38. *I have a coiled shell and eyes on stalks 39. Very dark black 40. Free from obstruction 42. ____ Aviv 43. Most buffoonish 45. Rest or hydration for common cold, e.g 47. Hot springs resort

48. “...he found a crooked sixpence upon a crooked ____” 50. Japanese stringed instrument 52. *I am a runaway slave, an abolitionist, and a bestselling author 55. Email destination 56. Jasmine of “Aladdin,” e.g.

57. Food fish 59. Silly 60. Self-cleaning appliance 61. Ad staple 62. O in IOU 63. P in m.p.g.

64. Affirmative, colloquially

DOWN

1. Do like Drake 2. Eye up and down 3. Bangkok native 4. Like preserved peaches, sometimes 5. Sharpened 6. Like Huck Finn’s dad, e.g.

7. *Some people call me the Rocket Man 8. *I starred as Pam in the “Meet the Parents” movies 9. *I used to host a sports show with Mike Golic 10. Commercials 12. Buddhist’s enlightenment 13. Sham 14. *I am a WWE Champion,

an actor, and my nickname is geology-related 19. Vision correctors, colloquially 22. Greek letters on campus 23. *My rÈsumÈ includes Fly Girl and “American Idol” judge 24. CuraÁao neighbor 25. Evil one 26. Fence board 27. Popular gemstone 28. Shed tears 29. *I am an American who became Princess of Monaco 32. Harangue 33. Network with an eye 36. *My TV role became synonymous with a hair style 38. Perform at the bee 40. Canada’s neighbor 41. Beginning 44. Strong adhesive 46. Contemptibly small 48. Dry white Italian wine 49. Radio receiver 50. Dr. Seuss: “The more that you read, the more things you will ____” 51. Piercing woodwind 52. Water quantity 53. Loafer, e.g 54. Adventure story 55. United Nations labor agency 58. Homer’s catchword

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

A6

www.thechiefnews.com

Friday, March 18, 2022

Spring Whale Watching: A ton of fun

Courtesy from the OPRD

People seeking a good view of the whale migration are encouraged to find safe locations along the shoreline.

JEREMY C. RUARK jruark@countrymedia.net

The spring whale migration is underway this month along the Oregon Coast.

Some 25,000 gray whales will pass by the shores from late March to June on their way to cool Alaskan waters.

Many will be accompanied by their calves, born during the winter in the warm lagoons off the coast of Baja, Mexico.

According to the Or-

A gray whale rises out of the ocean along the Oregon Coast.

egon Parks and Recreation Department’s communication representative Chris Havel, people are fascinated by the large, wild animals for good reason.

“People are clever and good at inventing and building ways to survive and thrive, and wildlife like whales do the same thing through sheer awesome power,” he said. “There’s still some mystery about their lives and seeing them in action is a thrill. Seeing them

in real life is also a reminder of how we affect all marine life and have a responsibility to eliminate pollution and be careful stewards of the planet’s resources.”

Havel said people are naturally attracted to the whales’ beauty, mystery, and power.

“But we also appreciate being reminded of our place in these natural systems,” and it makes us all feel part of the family,” he said.

Designated whale

watching sites offer the best chances of spotting whales because of their locations, usually slightly elevated above the ocean and in areas where whales are more easily seen.

Havel urges anyone seeking a good location to view to the migration, to do so cautiously.

CMHS baseball team?

The Chief: What schools do you see as the most competitive in your league and why those schools?

along the way. We believe if we do the little things rights, the wins and losses take care of themselves.

• Take care to stay well back of cliff edges. There are fences in some places, and respect them, but not ev-

erywhere. Be your own best safety coach and be careful.

After rain and wind storms, cliff edges are unstable and can give way without warning.

• Check the weather and bring the right clothing to stay warm and dry.

Trained volunteers will not be on site and the Spring Whale Week hosted

by OPRD and volunteers is canceled for 2022.

Although the Whale

Courtesy from the OPRD

Watch Center in Depoe Bay remains closed, OPRD is bringing back the popular whale watching livestream on the Oregon State Parks YouTube channel. The livestreams are scheduled daily from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

March 21-25. The Whale Watch Center will reopen to visitors in late spring 2022.

Learn more about the whale migration at https:// stateparks.oregon.gov and following the links.

CMHS Baseball Team set for new season JEREMY C. RUARK jruark@countrymedia.net

The Clatskanie Middle/ High School (CMHS) Baseball Team opens its new season March 21, on the road against North Bend at the Umpqua Valley Christian High School Tournament.

In the following conversation, CMHS Baseball Head Coach Ryan Tompkins gives us insight into how the spring sport is taking shape for his team.

The Chief: Going into this new season at this point what do you see as the likely strengths and the likely weaknesses of the

•

Ryan Tompkins: Last year was a shortened season and it was following the 2020 season that was cancelled completely. We were a young team last year that made great improvement over the course of the season. We look forward to continuing to improve with the experiences we have gained.

Tompkins: I think we have several very competitive teams in our league.

Rainier and Warrenton have consistently been good over the last few years.

The Chief: How did the CMHS baseball team fair last season?

The Chief: What do you hope the baseball team members take away from this season, both in sports and in life-lessons?

Tompkins: Last year we finished in third place in league, we won three of the last six games of the year.

Tompkins: We strive to compete every day. Our goal is to work hard, improve and encourage one another

Our goal is to work hard, improve and encourage one another along the way. ~ Ryan Tompkins, CMHS Baseball

Metro Creative Connection

The CMHS Baseball Team has 19 games scheduled for the new season.

• Follow the CMHS team’s game results at osaa.org.

•C rossword S olutions • •

Solution for the March 11, 2021 crossword puzzle

•C ommunity E vents • •

COVID-19 Testing Update: The COVID-19 testing site at the Columbia County Rider Transit Center at 1155 Deer Island Road in St. Helens is now open daily from 8 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Monday through Thursday until March 31.

Schedule an appointment online at cur.tv/sthelens or by calling 888-702-0942 (Curative) or 503-397-7247 (Public Health).

March 22 CRPUD Meeting The monthly Columbia River PUD (CRPUD) Board meeting is sched-

HEALTHCARE From Page A1 May,” said another.

“OHSU is working as quickly and efficiently as possible to meet demand, but two years of the COVID-19 pandemic have stretched health systems thin,” White told The Chief. “OHSU appreciates your patience as we work hard to meet the community’s health needs while also maintaining a high standard of care.”

“I think there’s a huge amount of pent-up demand to seek care; there are definitely some people who’ve delayed some of their care,” OHSU Center for Women’s Health Director and physician Dr. Johanna Warren said, in an interview with KPTV News.

“The message that I try to tell my patients is, we absolutely care about getting you in. We may not be able to answer the phones as fast as you (us) need to. We want to hear from you and we want you to advocate for yourself to escalate if you are actually not getting what you need from our healthcare system and things are getting more urgent, let us know.”

In St. Helens, Legacy Health Site Medical Director

uled for 6 p.m. at the CRPUD Community Room, 64001 Columbia River Highway in Deer Island. For more information, call 503-397-1844.

March 30 Music at Birkenfeld Clatskanie Arts Commission presents Sundae + Mr. Goessl at 3 p.m. at the Birkenfeld Theatre in the Clatskanie Cultural Center, 75 S. Nehalem in Clatskanie. Ticket prices are Adults $15, Seniors (60+) and Students $10, Children 12 and under $8.

Tickets are available online at clatskaniearts.org or by Dr. Roxana Abbott said her team has managed to keep up so far with the inflow of patients.

“Honestly, I’ve been really impressed with how we’ve kept up with things,” she said. “There have been short periods of pauses where we try to move to more virtual visits for a few weeks or maybe a month. But otherwise, we’ve been plowing through.”

Abbott said patients can expect to wait “one to three days” to be seen by their primary care physician, and operations are running “smoothly,” though she contends people have generally put on about 10 to 15 pounds “across the board” since the pandemic began, putting them at risk for hypertension, diabetes, and certain cancers. Abbott also noted a disturbing rise in mental health cases.

“Depression, anxiety, isolation, you know, alcohol addiction has really taken a spike,” she said, adding, “We’re really working closely with our community mental health teams and our clinic team members who help with mental health to try to help folks.”

The Chief will follow up with Community Health Center of Clatskanie in a future article.

Columbia County’s trusted local news source

calling Elsa at 503-7283403 (leave message).

Tickets are also available at the door the day of the performance. The box office opens at 2:30 p.m. Tickets may also be purchased for the Karen Carpenter Tribute Band, performing at 3 p.m. Sunday, April 3 and for pianist Sarah Hagen, performing at 3 p.m. Sunday, May 22.

April 1 Sheriff’s Sale The Columbia County Sheriff’s Sale is scheduled for 10 a.m. in the lobby of the Columbia County Justice Facility at 901 Port Ave. in St. Helens. CountyA concerning trend In June 2020, the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) estimated 41% of U.S. adults either delayed or avoided medical care over coronavirus concerns, resulting in a disproportionate impact on vulnerable populations.

Another study conducted

by National Public Radio, the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation, and the Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health found that 20% of U.S. households reported at least one family member lacking healthcare access during the pandemic. Over half (57%) reported adverse health outcomes resulting from the delays.

In April 2020, there were 69,540 emergency department visits recorded in Oregon, according to the Oregon Health Authority (OHA). By June 2021, that number shot up to 117,870.

OHA’s Policy & Analytics Division Communication Officer Philip Schmidt noted the volumes in Oregon’s emergency departments are “not an unusually high number,” and the 117,000 emergency visits in June “more closely represents a typical month when compared to previous, non-CO-

owned, tax-foreclosed properties will be sold to the highest bidder by oral auction. Additional details can be found by visiting https://www.columbiacountyor.gov/surplus-property.

May 14 Arts Guild Event The Columbia Arts Guild invites the community to an elegant evening of fire art, music, appetizers and conversation from 5 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. at the St. Helens Community Center, 2625 Gable Road in St. Helens. Paintings by local artists will be available for purchase. For more details call 503-396-0875.

VID years.”

Schmidt also attributed the lower than usual numbers for emergency department visits in April to a “wide range of reasons,” the clearest of which are pandemic-related shutdowns.

What now?

While there are no hospitals in Columbia County, OHSU and Legacy Health operate clinics in St. Helens and Scappoose.

OHSU Primary Care Clinic is on 51377 SW Old Portland Road in Scappoose, and Legacy Health Group is on 475 S Columbia River Highway in St. Helens.

For those patients worried about anything from an unusual heart murmur to a routine cancer screening, Abbott advises them to take the first step and call.

“It’s always good to encourage people, pandemic or no pandemic, to please come in and get your regular care, because we absolutely do save lives,” Abbott said.

“We can screen you for things that we can prevent from you getting sick and dying. We can play a huge role in keeping people healthy out here, which we’re so proud to do.”

Building Bridges to Self Sufficiency

Community Action Team

Are you a veteran?

You may be entitled to benefits for serving your country.

Contact your Veteran Service Officer • 503-366-6580 Call CAT at (503)397-3511 to find out if you qualify. Rental and energy assistance applications are available at 125 N. 17th St., St. Helens, OR. Also available on our website at www.CAT-TEAM.org

Shooting Sports & Blade Expo

(Formerly - Rose City Show/Wes Knodel Gun Shows)

Sat. Mar. 26, 9-5, Sun. Mar. 27, 9-3

Portland Expo Center, 2060 N. Marine Dr. Portland, OR General: $12.00, Children 12 & under FREE with Adult Parking: $12.00 Daily or $24.00 for weekend This is one of the largest exhibitions of shooting sports related brands and products.

Tactical Ordnance Gun Show Sat. Apr. 2, 9-5, Sun. Apr. 3, 9-3 Columbia County Fairgrounds 58892 Saulser Rd., St. Helens, OR General: $8.00, Children under 12: Free Free Parking NO MASKS REQUIRED AT EITHER SHOW

Questions OR to be a Vendor, Contact - Julie Zielke @ 253-381-6686 Email: tacticalordnanceshow@gmail.com