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FRIDAY, MARCH 26, 2021

VOL. 129, NO. 46 Serving the Lower Columbia Region since 1891

Pit murder case: ‘Justice system failed’

River’s Edge groundbreaking

Families reaction

JEREMY C. RUARK jruark@countrymedia.net

“Because of this new law, my brother’s murderer and the man who assaulted these others was sentenced only in juvenile court, due to the fact he was 2.5 months shy of his 18th birthday,” Kristin Schumacher said. “As it was explained to us, because he is being charged as a juvenile now, the max sentence is till his 25th birthday. However, if the detention facility deems that he is rehabilitated, they can decide to let him out whenever they see fit. He can be out in a year.” According to the Oregon Youth Authority (OYA), if the youth remains in the juvenile system, they would still be held accountable and face penalties, just with differences in where the youth can be placed while in OYA custody, and a difference in how long they can stay in custody. A sentencing hearing date of March 29 is set for Snook, who remains in the OYA custody. According to Nordstrom, Snook is pleading to manslaughter, assault 2, and three counts of assault 3 and DUI. “This is outrageous, Robert is dead and my daughter will never walk normal again,” Nordstrom said. This law was made with only the juveniles in mind, with no thought of the victims and their families. This new law is supposed to fairer, help reduce victimization and increase positive outcome. This law basically is saying if you commit murder and your under

“This has been one long nightmare with continuous slaps in the face,” Dena Nordstrom tells The Chief in responding to the current court outcome involving murder and a Rainier teen charged in the case. Nordstrom’s daughter suffered serious injuries in the incident. The incident The juvenile, Kyle Snook, faced murder charges after he allegedly drove through a gathering at the Hunt Creek rock pit in Clatsop County, killing one person and injuring others. On July 25, at approximately 4 a.m. Clatsop County deputies were called to the rock pit, east of Nicolai Mountain off Highway 30, for a report of a hit and run. Deputies investigating the incident learned that a large gathering had occurred at the rock pit and Snook left the area after allegedly driving his vehicle through a crowd of people. Three people in the crowd received serious injuries from being hit by the vehicle. Robert Betschart, of Rainier, died as a result of his injuries, according to the Clatsop County Sheriff’s Office. Snook was later arrested in Rainier by members of the Clatsop County Major Crimes Team. Snook faced charges of murder in the second degree, manslaughter in the first degree, five counts of felony vehicular assault and driving under the influence of

Metro Creative Connections / The Chief

The Oregon District Attorneys Association wants the state legislature to approve clarifications in the way Oregon’s criminal justice system prosecutes violent crimes committed by juveniles.

intoxicants. Snook was held at the Cowlitz Detention Facility because Clatsop County does not have a juvenile detention center.

We are wanting justice. We are wanting more accountability, ~ Dena Nordstrom, Kristin Schumacher

Clatsop County District Attorney Ron Brown had requested that the case be moved to adult court. But following a hearing in mid February, Clatsop County Judge Dawn McIntosh denied the motion. Brown also expressed disappointment about the current sentencing law involving juveniles

and the judge’s order not to move the murder case to adult court. “We fought like hell to get him remanded to adult court,” Brown told The Chief. The law has totally changed the lay of the land. This is not our choice. This is the way it is. I feel so bad for the victims.” Under Oregon’s Measure 11 law, Brown said prosecutors were able to indict juveniles directly into adult court but under a state legislative approved wavier juveniles who commit such violent acts of crimes and who remain in juvenile court custody are likely not to receive the harsher sentencing that they might if they were convicted in adult court. “As it stands, he (Snook) has less then a seven year sentence and they can parole him,” Brown said. “He’s basically done with the system at age 25.”

Courtesy photo

The River’s Edge RV Park is just off Highway 30 at Swedetown Road and will be nestled along the Clatskanie River. JEREMY C. RUARK jruark@countrymedia.net

A groundbreaking ceremony for River’s Edge RV Resort and Camping is scheduled for 10:30 a.m. Saturday April 3, at the site located at 1309 Swedetown Road in Clatskanie. The owners said the project will be a key economic builder for Clatskanie promising to boost tourism. “This project will bring tourism to town and not just through town,” River’s Edge owner Pattie Rathbone told the Chief in a published interview in mid February. Rathbone said RV parks across the nation are of limited supply even as the RV industry is booming. “For many, RV’ing has become an alternative lifestyle,” she said. “RV parks also provide needed housing for traveling workforces. The anticipated occupancy of the finished park will inject significant revenue sources into the city.” In the following conversation, The Chief gets new insight about River’s Edge from the company’s representative Jonna Forbes.

See MURDER Page A5

County moves to Moderate Risk

The Chief: How many RV spaces and camping spaces will be available at the park?

Metro Creative Connection / The Chief

Columbia County moves to Moderate Risk classification on March 26, meaning less pandemic-related restrictions. JEREMY C. RUARK jruark@countrymedia.net

Pandemic-related restrictions will ease Friday, March 26 in Columbia County as the county moves from High to Moderate Risk under the state’s COVID-19 health and safety classifications. Governor Kate Brown announced Tuesday, March 23, updates to county risk levels under the state’s public health framework to reduce transmission and protect Oregonians from COVID-19. The framework uses four different risk levels for counties based

Crossword ................ A3 Obituaries ................. A3 Clatskanie Grows .... A4 Viewpoints ................ A4 Letters ....................... A4 Classified Ads .......... A5 Legals ........................ A5

on COVID-19 spread—Extreme Risk, High Risk, Moderate Risk, and Lower Risk—and assigns health and safety measures for each level. Under the Moderate Risk classification, indoor dining, recreation and entertainment can allow for 50%capacity or a limit of 100 people, whichever number is smaller. Stores and malls can increase their capacity of shoppers to 75%. Curbside pickup is still encouraged. Indoor church services may increase to 50% capacity of 150 people, whichever is smaller. Limits to indoor gatherings increase to eight and outdoor gatherings are limited to 10 people. Brown said the majority of Or-

egon’s counties this week continue at Lower and Moderate Risk. “As we work to open up vaccine eligibility to all Oregonians by May 1, we are seeing the light at the end of the tunnel get a little brighter,” Brown said. “But, we still have more work to do to reach the level of community-wide protection we need. I encourage all Oregonians to keep wearing your masks, maintain physical distance, stay home when sick, and get your vaccine when it’s available to you.” In Rainier, Mayor Jerry Cole said the county’s classification to Moderate is a positive signal. “I believe this movement from

high to moderate shows that people in our communities are staying vigilant,” he said. “There is no doubt this helps our local businesses.” As the city of Rainier and the county attempts to move forward, Cole said we all need to stay the course. “It’s important to stay strong as we can finally see some light at the end of the tunnel,” Cole said. “I strongly advise people to get their vaccinations and continue to practice social distancing while we move out of the pandemic.” According to Rainier City Administrator Scott Jorgensen, businesses in Rainier and throughout Oregon have been patient over the last year as their activities have been restricted. “This should be welcome news that will allow them to operate safely and in greater capacity, Jorgensen said. “Hopefully, more activities can resume as vaccine distributions become more widespread and readily available.” Brown and the Oregon Health Authority (OHA) announced earlier a two-week caution period is now being used in monitoring the pandemic. The caution period applies to counties facing backward movement. Beginning this week and continuing until further notice, counties that reduced their COVID-19 spread

Jonna Forbes: We will be somewhere between 90 and 96 pads with a few of the pads being double pedestal for high occupancy events.

The Chief: What will be the charges for RV spaces and for camping spaces at the park and what will that provide? Forbes: We are working through those details, but we will base rates on the market. We are looking into Good Sam memberships along with others to make sure we can offer great, competitive rates for the avid RV’er. The Chief: Following the groundbreaking, what specific work needs to be done to open the park? Forbes: Groundbreaking includes site grading and construction prep. Then the installation of the infrastructure begins, including water, sewer, power, the streets and pads and the clubhouse. We are also doing an off-site water improvement for the city. There is lots to do bringing this park to life. The Chief: When do you hope the park will officially open? Forbes: We are hoping to be able to accommodate guests sometime in October.

See COVID-19 Page A5

See RV RESORT Page A6

10th Annual 2021 Columbia County

Business

Guide The 2021 Columbia County Business guide is a full color, glossy magazine that showcases local business and highlights current news events. It is the go-to reference for visitors, newcomers, residents, and potential customers of Columbia County. The Chronicle

The Chief

PUBLICATION DATES: CHRONICLE: JUNE 23, CHIEF: JUNE 25 AD DEADLINE: JUNE 9

For space reservation, contact Amy: 503-397-0116 or atrull@countrymedia.net

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Friday, March 26, 2021

Social distancing at local schools: ODE issues new guidelines JEREMY C. RUARK jruark@countrymedia.net

The Oregon Health Authority (OHA) and the Oregon Department of Education (ODE) have shifted the state’s social distancing guidelines for schools allowing three-feet of physical distancing under certain conditions, including county COVID-19 case rate levels for students in middle and high school. The two state agencies issued the recommendation Monday, March 22, saying after careful consideration the shift applies to all public and private schools and aligns Oregon’s Ready Schools, Safe Learners guidance with recent studies and new guidance from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Local decision The ODE said the new physical distancing allowance is a local decision. Schools may maintain 6 feet and, under certain conditions, must maintain 6 feet - such as when students from different classrooms are passing in hallways between periods, or when students are eating. These changes may take place over the next several weeks in some of Oregon schools as every school district will need time to plan and adjust to these new requirements, according to the ODE. Clatskanie School District School Superintendent Cathy Hurowitz said that currently Clatskanie Elementary School is operating grades K-6 five days a week from 8 a.m. to noon. Clatskanie Middle/High School is operating in-person with students grades 7-12 from 10 a.m. until 2 p.m. four days

a week. “We have our protocols in place and we are going to maintain our 6-feet social distancing at both schools,” she said. “We have no plans to disrupt our system that is working and change to 3-feet of social distancing at this time. Student and staff safety is our number one concern and we will stay the course until the end of the year. I appreciate the change and the new guidelines will certainly be considered as we plan and look at building capacity for the upcoming school year.” Rainier School District Superintendent Joseph Hattrick said the school social distancing update from the CDC is welcome news. “There have been instances in the recent past where ODE has not aligned their guidance with the CDC,” Hattrick said. “Therefore, we will continue to do what we have been doing. If and when we receive updated guidance from ODE, we will review and consider what is best for our district.” St. Helens School District Superintendent Scot Stockwell said the new ODE school distancing guidelines would not have much impact on the district’s return to in-person instruction. “It will allow us more flexibility for sure and we will review our reopening school blueprints to see where we might be able to take advantage of the loosening of restrictions,” Stockwell said. “It is good news and points toward growing confidence that with about a quarter left in this school year, it is becoming more and more likely for us to return to full time in-person instruction for the 2021-22 school year.”

CDC recommendation

Metro Creative Connections / The Chief

Not all Columbia County School Districts are embracing the new state school social distancing guidelines. Clatskanie and Rainier School superintendents say they will continue to follow the health and safety procedures their districts have developed to best protect students, teachers, staff and school visitors.

Governor, ODE director reaction Oregon Gov. Kate Brown said she joins students, parents, and educators across Oregon in welcoming the news that months of scientific research clearly demonstrates the risk of COVID-19 transmission is low in schools. “As with so many aspects of our lives this year, schools will not be able to return to normal overnight, as districts will need time to work with parents, educators, and staff to create plans at the local level to implement this updated guidance,” Brown said. “But, as we continue to vaccinate more Oregonians every day and work together to drive down COVID-19 transmission in our communities, students and staff will have expanded opportunities and flexibility for in-person learning under this new guidance, as we work towards fully reopening all our schools in the fall.” ODE Director Colt Gill said the shift will take time to digest, partner with staff, and integrate in many schools and districts.

“I know our educators have spent countless hours over the last year stretching to implement different learning models and safety protocols,” Gill said. “It is my hope you maintain your spring break as a short time for renewal and come together after the break to plan together on how best to incorporate these changes.” Gill added that given the new and important progression in the science and standards, as set by the CDC, for schools during COVID-19; some schools and districts may wish to consider new models for hybrid and new opportunities for fully onsite instructional models. “I strongly encourage school districts and schools to take the time they need to collaborate across school administrators, teachers and staff to convene school planning teams to review the new requirements and recommendations and to consider updating your school’s Operational Blueprint to reflect any changes you will make under the new guidance,” Gill said.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) updated K–12 school guidance March 19 to reflect the latest science on physical distance between students in classrooms. CDC now recommends that, with universal masking, students should maintain a distance of at least 3-feet in classroom settings. The CDC updated operational strategy: • In elementary schools, CDC recommends all students remain at least 3-feet apart in classrooms where mask use is universal — regardless of whether community transmission is low, moderate, substantial, or high. • In middle and high schools, CDC also recommends students should be at least 3-feet apart in classrooms where mask use is universal and in communities where transmission is low, moderate, or substantial. • Middle school students and high school students should be at least 6 feet apart in communities where transmission is high, if cohorting is not possible. Cohorting is when groups of students are kept together with the same peers and staff throughout the school day to reduce the risk for spread throughout the school. The CDC said the recommendation is because COVID-19 transmission dynamics are different in older students – that is, they are more likely to be exposed to SARS-CoV-2 and spread it than younger children. Three studies, published in the Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report (MMWR),

also address spread of SARSCoV-2 in schools. Taken together, these studies build on evidence that physical distancing of at least 3-feet between students can safely be adopted in classroom settings where mask use is universal and other prevention measures are taken. “CDC is committed to leading with science and updating our guidance as new evidence emerges,” CDC Director Rochelle P. Walensky said. “Safe in-person instruction gives our kids access to critical social and mental health services that prepare them for the future, in addition to the education they need to succeed. These updated recommendations provide the evidence-based roadmap to help schools reopen safely, and remain open, for in-person instruction.” These updated recommendations are specific to students. The CDC continues to recommend at least 6 feet of distance: • Between adults in the school building and between adults and students. • In common areas, such as school lobbies and auditoriums. • When masks can’t be worn, such as when eating. • During activities when increased exhalation occurs, such as singing, shouting, band practice, sports, or exercise. These activities should be moved outdoors or to large, well-ventilated spaces whenever possible. • In community settings outside of the classroom. For more information, visit the CDC COVID website at cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019ncov/index.html.

Oregon speeds up state vaccination timeline ZACK DEMARS worldnews3@countrymedia.net

In a quick about-face from just a week earlier, Oregon health officials announced Friday, March 19, they would be meeting President Joe Biden’s May 1 deadline to open COVID-19 vaccine eligibility to all adults. “My team is in touch with the White House for more specifics about when vaccine shipments to states will increase,” said Governor Kate Brown in a press conference. “We have always attempted to align our vaccination timelines with available federal supplies. And so far, it’s been really encouraging to see so many Oregonians eager to get the vaccine when it’s their turn.” The news came informally

earlier in the week, when Oregon Health Authority Director Patrick Allen told Oregon Public Broadcasting the agency had determined the president’s timeline was an order, not just an optimistic suggestion. Just a week prior, Allen and other state officials were hesitant to embrace the president’s timeline, concerned about whether or not vaccine supply would be available to meet it. “The answer is yes, if the federal government comes through at the levels of vaccines we’ve projected based on the national numbers the administration has released,” Allen said. “We know it will take a couple of weeks to get through the surge. But we can keep pace.”

The quicker pace — the state had originally been on track to open eligibility to all adults July 1 — means the rest of the state’s vaccination timeline is also moving up. But Allen said Friday the new timeline will result in some “traffic jams” when large classes of people become eligible for the vaccine. “However, I want to be crystal clear. Not every Oregonian will have a vaccination appointment waiting for them,” the director said. “It’ll take a few weeks for supply to catch up to demand.” Still, health officials laid out a new timeline for making Oregonians eligible to get in line for the vaccine. On March 22, vaccinations were opened slightly: Counties that attest to

largely completing the vaccination of residents 65 and older may begin vaccinating the next eligible groups. Vaccinations may also begin for migrant and seasonal farmworkers in counties where they are currently already working. Starting March 29, the following groups will be eligible: • All adults 45-64 with underlying health conditions • Migrant and seasonal

farm workers • Seafood and agricultural workers • Food processing workers • People living in lowincome senior housing, senior congregate and independent living • Individuals experiencing homelessness • People currently displaced by wildfires • Wildland firefighters • Pregnant people 16 and older Starting April 19, the state

will open eligibility to: • Frontline workers as defined by the CDC • Multigenerational household members • Adults 16-44 with underlying health conditions And on May 1, the state will open vaccine eligibility to anyone 16 and older, according to OHA. A complete list of eligibility guidelines will be available on the state’s website at covidvaccine.oregon.gov.

On feed and expanding our inventory for horses, cows, and goats LAKEN GORTLER Sponsored content

Let’s talk a little about feed. We actually did really good last year - we sold a little over 500 tons, which is a big jump from the year before. That’s all-encompassing, of course, but I definitely sell a lot more pig and horse feed than the others. But chicken feed is up there, too. Personally, I’ve always fed Purina. My horses seem to like it and do well on it, and I’ve never had to switch them or worry if they’re eating anything iffy. There are some feeds I’ve noticed that their blend isn’t always the same, and some of them don’t store it well before it travels. With Purina, if I’ve ever had a mold problem, they’re right on it getting it fixed. We also have Triple Crown now, and I have a lot of different Senior feeds. We’ve been expanding more into supplements, and I have a whole horse section that was just redone recently. That’s all inside now instead of in the feed shed. We’re also trying to branch out with things like goat dewormer and other essentials like halters, hoof picks, and brushes.

10th Annual 2021 Columbia County

Business

Most of the time, if you talk to me, I can get something in on special order. So, if there’s something that you’d like to find here at Dahlgren’s that will make it easier for you, just let me know and we’ll see if we

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Guide PUBLICATION DATES: CHRONICLE: JUNE 23, CHIEF: JUNE 25 AD DEADLINE: JUNE 9 The 2021 Columbia County Business guide is a full color, glossy magazine that showcases local business and highlights current news events. It is the go-to reference for visitors, newcomers, residents, and potential customers of Columbia County. The Chronicle

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For space reservation, contact Amy: 503-397-0116 or atrull@countrymedia.net

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Friday, March 26, 2021

•

•C rossword P uzzle • •

STATEPOINT CROSSWORD THEME: THE 1960s ACROSS

1. *Kennedy and Ruby 6. Credit card acr. 9. Just in case 13. Yemeni’s neighbor 14. Scheduled to arrive 15. *First full-disk image of it was taken in 1966 16. Alleviated 17. Wildfire remains 18. One born to Japanese immigrants 19. *“Catch-22” author 21. *Oscar-winning leading lady of “Mary Poppins” 23. Green or black beverage 24. Piercing woodwind 25. Mom in U. K. 28. ____ and drab 30. Good-for-nothing 35. *TV’s Batman, ____ West 37. Figure skater’s jump 39. Make happy 40. Hitchhiker’s quest 41. *“Wilt the ____” of pro basketball 43. Femur, e.g. 44. Cut it out 46. Away from port 47. Largest organ of human body 48. Like anti-cruelty society

50. Same as #42 Down 52. Even, to a poet 53. Roaster’s spot 55. *It’s the loneliest number 57. *Sam Walton’s company 61. *Haircut popularized by the Beatles 64. Relating to axis 65. PC brain 67. *Sting Ray and Mustang, e.g. 69. Threshing hand tool 70. *“On ____ Majesty’s Secret Service” 71. Dostoyevsky’s novel, with The 72. Seaside bird 73. Tibetan ox 74. Condemn

DOWN

1. *Hasbro’s G. I. 2. Same as ayah 3. Four six-packs 4. Genuflected 5. Sashayed 6. Month of Purim 7. Abscess contents 8. Repair 9. Bear’s den 10. Gaelic tongue 11. Meat and potato dish 12. Not that 15. Take to one’s heart

20. ____ Grey and James ____ Jones 22. Noggin or dome 24. #24 Across players 25. *____ on Washington 26. Farewell in Paris 27. Address to a woman 29. Just a little 31. Young socialites, for short 32. Call forth 33. *Barbara Eden starred as one 34. *First American astronaut to orbit the Earth 36. Table in Spanish 38. Type of bargain 42. Best not mentioned 45. Ultimate goal 49. Slightly pointed on a Hobbit 51. Pro bono 54. Scratchy’s nemesis 56. Chopin piece 57. Drift 58. Rod for a hot rod 59. One with pants on fire? 60. Street in Anytown, USA 61. Darkness or gloom 62. Relating to ear 63. Poverty-stricken 66. Cause of Princess’ downfall 68. Pig’s home

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

Grandparent scam alert STAFF REPORT chiefnews@countrymedia.net

The Oregon Bankers Association (OBA) is advising banks and the public of the latest fraud attempt now circulating in Oregon. The Oregon Department of Justice (DOJ) has reason to believe that a group of scammers are setting their sights on Oregon to perpetrate grandparent scams, according to release from the OBA. Officials describe the grandparent scams as specifically targeting older adults convincing them to hand over cash at their front door, thinking they’re helping a loved one who is in danger. “Scammers pose as panicked grandchildren in trouble, calling or sending messages urging you to wire money immediately,” DOJ officials state in the OBA release. “They’ll say they need cash to help with an emergency – like paying a hospital bill or needing

•

to leave a foreign country. They pull at your heartstrings so they can trick you into sending money before you realize it’s a scam.” The Oregon DOJ offers the following recommendations to avoid becoming a victim of a grandparent or family emergency scam. If someone calls or sends a message claiming to be a grandchild, other family member or friend desperate for money: • Resist the urge to act immediately – no matter how dramatic the story is. • Verify the caller’s identity. Ask questions that a stranger couldn’t possibly answer. Call a phone number for your family member or friend that you know to be genuine. Check the story out with someone else in your family or circle of friends, even if you’ve been told to keep it a secret. • Don’t send cash, gift cards, or money transfers – once the scammer gets the money, it’s gone.

• Never open your door for anyone you don’t know. • Call the police immediately if you have reason to believe you’ve fallen victim to this scam or any other scam. If you have fallen victim to a scam like the grandparent scam, file a complaint online at www.oregonconsumer.gov or call the Oregon Attorney General’s Consumer Hotline at 1-877877-9392 and ask that a complaint form be mailed to you. About the Oregon Bankers Association Established in 1905, the Oregon Bankers Association is Oregon’s only full-service trade association representing FDIC-insured state and national banks and trust companies doing business in Oregon. More information is available at www.oregonbankers.com.

•O bituaries • • PETERSEN ETERSEN CLARKE LARKELLC LLC P C Joyce Ryan

AA19, tt tt oo rr nn ee yy ss May 30, 1939 ~ March 2021 (503) 556-4120 556-4120 (503) ack) Bonser.

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She is survived by her

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Jerald Canning 80, of Rainier, Oregon, passed away March 22, 2021 in Rainier, Oregon.

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Friday, March 26, 2021

Clatskanie Grows: Strawberries forever CHIP BUBL Chief Guest Column

Scappoose Bay Watershed Council’s Native Plant Sale Saturday, April 10 Join the Watershed Council at their Spring Native Plant Sale Saturday, April 10, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the SBWC nursery, located behind 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 chose plants suggest gardening ideas and provide information on establishing and maintaining native vegetation. For more information see www.scappoosebay-wc. org/nursery-sales. This event allows for pre-purchase by April 3 and pick-up the day of the sale. There will be limited walk-in to the nursery on the sale day itself. We are in this together, get vaccinated There are a lot more options to get the COVID-19 vaccination locally. As your age and/or group makes you vaccine eligible, get your shots scheduled. Most local pharmacies are offering the vaccine now, so it is not as difficult as before. The more unvaccinated community members we have, the higher

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our local infection rate will be and the longer it will take to get back to normal activity. In addition, with high COVID-19 circulation, there is more chance of a mutation that may be more transmissible, more medically serious for younger people, and/ or more deadly. This is not political, it is biology, pure and simple. Strawberries forever

One famous plant biologist once said that western Oregon had the perfect mix of changing day-length, temperatures, and rainfall to make the perfect tasting strawberry. We used to have many strawberry farms in Columbia County. That has changed over time but strawberries are still very popular with home gardeners. Strawberries are fairly easy to grow. The plot should be reasonably well drained. They do well in raised beds but that isn’t necessary. You should work a modest amount of compost and fertilizer into the soil before planting. After planting, you need to protect

the strawberry plants from slugs, weeds, and deer. You have a choice of “long-day” or June bearing varieties like Hood, Shucksan, Benton, and the like. These varieties give a heavy June-early July crop but nothing during the rest of the summer. Their fruiting is triggered when the day-length reaches a certain critical minimum. These have been the

mainstay varieties grown commercially in Oregon and many consider them to have the best flavor. The concentrated fruiting means that you get your jam making and freezing out of the way fairly quickly. Benton seems very root disease resistant, yields well, and tastes great with one caveat. You have to see if the berry you are about to pick is red on both sides. If it is still yellow on the underside, it isn’t going to taste as good as it would if you waited a day. That can slow picking a bit, but it is worth it. Hood strawberries are wonderful, but the plants usually succumb to

•V iewpoints • •

COVID impact, bill backlog BRAD WITT Chief Guest Article

On Tuesday the Oregon House floor session was adjourned following the confirmation of a colleague who has tested positive for COVID-19, and who had been present during the March 15 and 16 floor sessions. On the advice of Marion County Public Health officials, legislators and staff who are showing no symptoms are being asked to self-quarantine for 10 days, and those displaying symptoms are to be tested and quarantine for two weeks. We are continuing to conduct our remote committee work as scheduled. The earliest we can resume floor sessions is Monday March 29. We had been scheduled for morning and evening floor sessions for most of the week to try and make headway on the consideration and passage of dozens of bills. Legislation backlog The passage of bills in the House Chamber is taking additional time this session, creating a backlog of mostly uncontroversial bills. Bills can be read by title only if Representatives agree, or they must be read in their entirety. Currently every bill up for a floor vote is being read in its entirety. One bill up for consideration is HB 2111 which changes the name of the Oregon Liquor Control Commission to the Oregon Liquor and Cannabis Commission to reflect the additional duties of the OLCC. Given it is 170 pages in length, it will take approximately 10 hours for the clerk to read this one bill aloud. This could take several floor sessions to accomplish.

When Oregon voters approved annual legislative sessions, they established time limits. The length of the odd-year session is 160 days, and the 2021 session will end no later than 11:59 p.m. on June 28, 2021. Every bill that has not been approved by both chambers by that time will be dead. While the Governor can call the legislature back in for Special Sessions, any legislation that was not approved, will have to be reintroduced and begin the legislative process anew. Food Box bill One of my bills that is waiting to be read on the House Floor is HB 2693, the “Food Box” bill, which deals with apprenticeship training facilities. This past year, Local 290 Plumbers and Steamfitters wanted to work with another non-profit on food distribution for families struggling due to the pandemic. Attorneys determined that participation in the food drive and distribution would require a temporary lease of part of the training facility. That lease would cause the loss of their Oregon Property Tax exemption, and so the community assistance program had to be cancelled. HB 2693 will offer relief from these rules so non-profits can work together to help the community. Hopefully, I will be carrying this bill on the House Floor next week. Support for substitute teachers I’ve signed on as a chief sponsor for HB 3130 to support Oregon Substitute Teachers. HB 3130 provides that certain substitute teachers are considered employees

of school districts and are eligible for retirement benefits and health benefit plans. This would only apply to a small percentage of substitute teachers who work 600 hours per school year in order to qualify. Substitute teachers perform their jobs on school property, during school hours and under the direction and supervision of the school principal. Those who would qualify, work nearly every day and are essential to the cohesive operation of our public schools. There was overwhelming testimony in support of HB 3130 from individual substitute teachers, the Oregon Substitute Teachers Association, Licensed Substitute Teachers and Tax Fairness Oregon. A public hearing was held this week in Oregon House Committee on Business and Labor and a Work Session is scheduled for March 29th on the bill.

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covers continually over the strawberries beds except when they were being picked and somehow, they got pollinated. The farmer didn’t understand it nor do I, but it worked. If you try this, no guarantees but let me know the results. You will have to bait slugs. “Day-neutral” varieties like Seascape, Albion, and Tristar fruit over the entire summer. These are great for fresh eating. Seascape and Albion have become the mainstays of the fresh market strawberries found after June at farmers markets. Albion makes very large fruit but if the summer isn’t warm

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•V oices

The problems of hate and anger I served ten years in the military, four and a half years in security with the Department of Defense Police, and two years in retail sporting goods selling guns, reloading supplies, hunting licenses and tags. Here are some absolute facts. Guns can not load

397-3462 or at chip.bubl@ oregonstate.edu.

Have questions?

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

If you have questions on any of these topics or other home garden and/ or farm questions, please contact Chip Bubl, Oregon State University Extension office in St. Helens at 503-

of the

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 503-397-3462 to be put on the list. Alternatively, you can find it on the web at extension.oregonstate.edu/columbia and click on newsletters. Many Extension publications available online Are you putting up salsa, saving seeds, or thinking about planting grapes? OSU has a large number of its publications available for free download. Just go to catalog. extension.oregonstate.edu. Click on publications and start exploring. The Extension Service offers its programs and materials equally to all people. Contact information for the Extension office

C ommunity • •

themselves. Guns can not aim themselves. Guns can not pull their own triggers. Therefore, guns can not kill. People get angry, mad, depressed, and may become fearful for their lives. These are the things that drive people to murder, not the objects they use in their crime. What are causing these social stressors have been discussed over the ages to no avail. Politicians just use them to stir up more hate and discontent to sell their lies

and corrupt politics. The military teaches to kill with #2 pencils, 16 penny nails, and even a #2 phillip screwdrivers yet citizens can still buy these basics things at their local WalMart and Ace hardware stores. Restricting or eliminating guns won’t get rid of the problems of hate and anger, but only endanger those who want to live in peace. Joe Turner Columbia City

As always, please remember that I can best serve your interests when I hear from you. If you have a comment or concern about pending legislation, please reach out to my office. Due to COVID-19 restrictions, the Capitol building remains closed, so email is probably the best way to have your opinions recorded. If I can help you navigate an issue or problem with a state agency, please don’t hesitate to contact me. Rep. Brad Witt serves House District 31. He may be reached at: • Email: Rep.BradWitt@ oregonlegislature.gov • Telephone: 503-986-1431 • 900 Court St. NE, H-382, Salem, OR, 97301 • Website: www.oregonlegislature.gov/witt

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

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Clatskanie Grows

enough, it doesn’t have the best flavor. Seascape yields decently and has fine flavor for a non-June-bearing variety. When the June-bearing strawberry harvest is done, the strawberry beds should be cleaned out. All weeds and the old foliage should be removed. If your ground is flat, a lawnmower set high can take off the foliage (the weeds should be pulled first) without damaging the crown. Any dead plants should be removed entirely. In late July, apply a complete fertilizer (1/3 cup of 16-16-16 or its organic equivalent per ten feet of row) on the bed and water it in. Don’t fertilize in the spring. These rules don’t apply to ever-bearing strawberries, which are fed lightly on more constant intervals during active growth and production. Runners should be removed and/or used to replace gaps in rows. For more information, see these excellent OSU publications Growing Strawberries in Your Home Garden catalog.extension. oregonstate.edu/ec1307 and Growing Strawberries on the Coast catalog. extension.oregonstate.edu/ em9178/html.

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a virus you can’t prevent (aphid moved) so the plants rarely give you more than two full crops. There is a chance you could prevent aphid infection with row covers but the challenge would be to get the flowers pollinated so that the berry would form. A sign saying “only bees allowed” probably wouldn’t work. But I did visit one farm that had row

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CC21-1403

CC21-1400

NOTICE OF ANNUAL MEETING OF THE IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE STATE OF LANDOWNERS OF THE CLATSKANIE OREGON FOR THE COUNTY OF COLUMBIA Department In present their claims, with tional information from the DRAINAGE IMPROVEMENT COMPANY, INC. the Probate Matter of the Estate of vouchers attached, within records of the Court, the Notice is hereby given that the annual meeting for the landowners and Board of Directors of the Clatskanie Drainage Improvement Company, Columbia County, Oregon, will be held Tuesday, April 06, 2021, at 11:30

a.m. at the Port of Columbia County’s Office located at 555 SW Bryant Street 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 22nd day of March, 2021. Sean P. Clark, President, Clatskanie Drainage Improvement Company, Inc., Board of Directors.

CC21-1399

REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS: PORT OF COLUMBIA COUNTY MOWING SERVICES The Port of Columbia County is seeking proposals for Mowing and Yard Services at various Port facilities. Interested contractors may obtain the RFP

documents from the Port’s website, www.portofcolumbiacounty.org; from the Port Office located at 100 E. Street, Columbia City, from 8:00 to 5:00pm; or via e-

mail at house@portofcolumbiacounty.org. Submissions must be received by 5:00 on Tuesday, April 6, 2021. For questions, please call 503397-2888.

INVITATION TO BID: CC21-1396

Abandoned property of Jennifer Giberson and All Others. For Sale, a 1980 EDINB, Serial #ABC7SC7480R, Home ID #120275. The mobile home is located at 1315

Swedetown Road, Space #22, Clatskanie, OR in Swedetown Village. This will be a private sale with a minimum bid of $8,000.00. Bids accepted until April 2, 2021. Send/submit

bids to 18150 SW Boones Ferry Road, Portland, OR 97224, Attn: Sarah Smith. Please call Christina at: 503597-8822 for appointment to see home.

have the active life she wanted because of her injuries, the emotional and psychological toil it has taken on the victims families will never go away. Our justice system has failed for Robert who can not speak for himself and all the other victims out there this new measure has impacted. I just hope that no other family has to go through this nightmare.” Nordstrom said she and Kristin Schumacher, the sister of Robert Betschart, want to raise awareness so that the current juvenile offender sentencing law can be rewritten fairly for both victims and juvenile offenders. “We are wanting justice. We are wanting more accountability,” Nordstrom said.

in 2019, Senate Bill 1008 made sweeping changes to the way Oregon’s criminal justice system prosecutes violent crimes committed by juveniles. The ODAA is supporting Senate Bill 215, which the association says makes needed clarifications to the “wavier” process and ensures victims and their families have the information about their cases:

LILLIAN HAZEL PALM, Deceased. No. 21PB01186 NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the undersigned has been appointed personal representative of this estate. All persons having claims against the estate are required to

four months after the date of first publication of this notice to the personal representative at P.O. Box 459, Rainier, OR 97048, or the claims may be barred. All persons whose rights may be affected by the proceedings may obtain addi-

personal representative or the attorney for the personal representative. Dated and first published March 26, 2021. Aaron Palm, Personal Representative. STEPHEN D. PETERSEN, L.L.C., Attorney at Law, P.O. Box 459, Rainier, OR 97048.

CC21-1397

NOTICE OF PUBLIC SALE OF PROPERTY Notice is hereby given that Columbia NW Self Storage located at 75764 Heath Rd. Rainier, OR 97048. Will sell to satisfy lien of the owner, by public

sale via on-line auction @ storageauctions.com. The following storage units, unit # C10 Alisha Cameron, misc items. Unit # C13 Maynard & Tamra Houle, misc items.

Unit # F8 Greg Poorman, misc items. Auction dates 04/01/21 - 04/15/21. Bidder must comply with storageauctions.com rules of sale stated on the website.

CC21-1398

NOTICE OF ANNUAL MEETING OF THE LANDOWNERS OF THE CLATSOP #15 DRAINAGE IMPROVEMENT COMPANY, INC. Notice is hereby given that the annual meeting for the landowners and Board Members of the Clatsop #15 Drainage Improvement Company, Columbia and Clatsop County, Oregon, will be held Tuesday March

30, 2021, at 4:00 p.m. at the Poplar Tree Nursery Office located at 91151 Old Mill Town Rd in Westport, 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 16th day of March, 2021. Kathy Haiby, Secretary/Treasurer, Clatsop #15 Drainage Improvement Company, Inc. Board of Directors.

CC21-1402

NOTICE OF MEETING

The Rainier School Board will hold its regular board meeting Monday, March 29 at 6:30 p.m. Please see District website for details

MURDER From Page A1

18 its OK because you don’t know any better.” Nordstrom describes the juvenile justice system as “a giant pendulum swinging either hard right or left” and Oregon lawmakers need to find a middle ground. “If you commit murder/ manslaughter you should be judged by a jury not a judge, you get no waiver or remand hearing, you should have to stay in OYA until you turn 25, with no stepping down,” she said. “This law should have been brought before the voters, not Kate Brown.” Nordstrom said the case should be a wake up call for everyone. “No one wins in this case,” she said. “A young man is dead, (Robert Betschart), Kalee Nordstrom will never

Law adjustment proposed The Oregon District Attorneys Association (ODAA) is lobbying for state legislation to adjust the sentencing law. According to the ODAA,

• Ensures victims are protected and that waiver is possible when the facts warrant it. • Ensures case information is made available to victims while protecting the privacy of the juvenile-defendant. The ODAA has issued a full statement concerning the need to adjust the way the criminal justice system prosecutes violent crimes committed by juveniles. Read that full statement attached to this story at thechiefnews.com.

Musical performances rescheduled Due to the COVID-19 restrictions still in place for Columbia County, the Clatskanie Arts Commission (CAC) has rescheduled its two final performances for this season, the Karen Carpenter Tribute and pianist Sarah Hagan. These performances will be rescheduled for the 2021-22 season with Sarah

COVID-19

From Page A1

enough to move down in risk level in the previous twoweek period, but see their numbers go back up in the next two-week period, will be given a two-week caution period to bring COVID-19 case rates back down again. The caution period will

Hagan’s performance on May 22, 2022. All previously purchased tickets will be honored for these performances as well as other performances that were canceled and will be rescheduled for next season as well. “CAC knows this uncertainty has been difficult on not only the performers and

our venue but also our loyal audience members and business sponsors,” CAC said in a release. “Your patience is greatly appreciated. CAC looks forward to seeing all of you when we can open our doors for live performances once again.” For more information, visit www.clatskaniearts.org

allow counties to refocus two weeks. The first week’s efforts to drive back down data will provide a “warning creeping case numbers, and week” to prepare counties for give local businesses addipotential risk level changes. tional certainty on their plans The next assignment of for operating, according to risk levels will be announced the OHA. If, at the end of April 6 and take effect April the caution period, case rate 9. data still puts the county at a higher risk level, the county Follow Columbia will move to that level. County’s COVID-19 panThe OHA will examine demic developments daily and publish county data at thechiefnews.com with weekly. County risk levels in-depth reports in the Friday will be reassigned every print editions of The Chief. Columbia County’s trusted local news source

www.thechiefnews.com

Governor’s economic recovery plan

Tulips Sale April 2-3 After a break in tradition last year because of the pandemic, members of Clatskanie’s Chapter T P.E.O. will once again sell bouquets of farm-fresh tulips on Easter weekend. The colorful bouquets, at $6 each, will be available in front of Hi-School Pharmacy and Farmhouse Coffee in the Evergreen Shopping Center in Clatskanie from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Friday, April 2, and from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Saturday, April 3. Proceeds from the sale benefit scholarships for women. The Clatskanie chapter of the philanthropic education organization has successfully sponsored many local women for P.E.O. scholarships. Current recipients include Katherine Jolma, who just received her nursing degree. from Oregon Health Sciences University; Sierra Bechdoldt

RV RESORT From Page A1

The Chief: What is the best contact information we might publish for anyone interested in more information about River’s Edge RV Resort and Camping Park? Forbes: Please contact Jon-

Friday, March 26, 2021

JEREMY C. RUARK jruark@countrymedia.net

Courtesy photo from Debra Hazen

Proceeds from the tulip sales benefit scholarships for women.

and Aleisha Wilson-Yaakola at Oregon State University; Hannah Reeves and Madeline Moravec, studying at Portland State University, and Kaitlyn Sizemore, who will begin her post-secondary

studies at Clatsop Community College next fall. For more information about the Clatskanie chapter, contact Deborah Hazen at 503-338-8268 or email to dshazen13@gmail.com.

na Forbes, jonnaforbes555@ comcast.net

excited to take the project to the next level. We want to be a valuable asset to the community, be involved in community events and help make Clatskanie a destination. We appreciate the support of the city leaders and just look forward to getting started.

The Chief: Feel free to add any other comments you might have. Forbes: We look forward to getting started in this phase of the project and completing this dream. We’ve been working with the Rathbone’s for a number of years and are very 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

City reaction Clatskanie City Manager Greg Hinkelman said in a Chief article published in February that the new RV Park will be a key economic boost to the city. “It will be big-time aid to the local economy,” he said. “People filling the park will want to eat at local restaurants and shop at local businesses.” The city has taken steps to make sure such a project would fit the livability of the community, according to Hinkelman. “We have an RV park ordinance, so we would not have to worry about a transient population,” he said. “The ordinance puts time limits on the length of stay. There are provisions that would allow extended stays for workers to come it.”

Governor Kate Brown has released a 10-Point Economic Recovery Plan for Oregon that she said builds on the work of local economic development districts across the state to help Oregon families and businesses. The plan provides a framework for economic recovery related to COVID-19 and wildfires, with a specific focus on strategically supporting Black, Indigenous, and People of Color communities, according to a release from Brown’s office. Brown also outlined her principles for the use of federal American Rescue Plan (ARP) resources, to guide state agencies and local governments in making investments that will maximize immediate benefits for Oregonians in an equitable way. Oregon expects to receive approximately $6.4 billion through the ARP. The money will be shared by cities, and counties across the state, such as Clatskanie, Rainier and Columbia County. “We have the opportunity now to lift up Oregon families and businesses, by immediately investing state and federal resources to help them recover from the devastating economic impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic,” Brown said. “We must do so by creating a more just and equitable Oregon, helping the communities that have been disproportionately impacted by the pandemic and wildfires. By rooting our recovery efforts in equity, we can support economic growth for Oregon’s Black, Indigenous, Latino, Latina, Latinx, Asian, Pacific Islander, Native American, and Tribal communities.” What the plan means for Columbia County Columbia County Economic Team (CCET) Executive Director Paul Vogel said the CCET was able to provide input to Brown’s plan prior to public release of

the document. “Particularly regarding the importance of focusing on these three elements: rural, local and investment,” Vogel said. “So we’re pleased that those things that are so important to our county and communities are not just in the plan, they’re central to the plan.” Vogel say the governor’s plan establishes priorities and direction, and how the plan is implement now becomes critical. He agrees with Brown’s statement that it will be critical to lean on known strategies that will maximize the state’s investment. “Both the current cultural environment and the Governor call for us to reimagine and retool priorities; that doesn’t mean reinvent the wheel,” Vogel said. “Building resilience means strengthening and correcting weaknesses, not just starting over – which would not be the acting smart the Governor emphasizes in her accompanying Investment Criteria Principles.” According to Vogel, investing, by definition, is to generate a quantifiable and positive return. “Make certain quantifiable is included in the Governor’s principle of accountability,” he said. The Governor’s plan is important for its emphasis on investment, existing local organizations and strategies, and calling out rural Oregon - as priorities, Vogel stated, adding that staying disciplined to those and other principles will determine the plan’s success, and becoming a recovered, stronger Oregon. “We’re very pleased for our neighbors, communities and businesses in Columbia County who figure prominently in the Governor’s plan,” Vogel said. “We all need to work very closely together to make sure we figure just as prominently in guiding, and making, the investments that will fill the weaknesses and gaps the pandemic exposed, and build a stronger, more balanced, and more prosperous economy – right here.”

The Governor applies these action principles for equitable and rapid economic recovery in her 10-Point Plan: • Investing in Oregon’s hardest hit workers (those currently unemployed or underemployed) • Reinvesting in innovative housing • Supporting resilient rural communities • Supporting Oregon’s workforce (those currently employed but struggling) • Creating opportunities for Oregonians (workforce development) • Getting small business back on its feet • Investing in Oregon’s infrastructure • Oregonians investing in Oregon • Safely reopening Oregon’s economy • Innovation in manufacturing Joth Ricci, the CEO and President of Dutch Bros and Chair of the Oregon Business Plan Steering Committee, said Oregon businesses have worked throughout the pandemic to do their part to stop the spread of COVID-19. “We are pleased with the direction Governor Brown is taking with this plan to immediately invest state and federal resources towards shared prosperity and a robust recovery,” Ricci said. “Oregon businesses need both short-term relief and long-term investments like those in the Governor’s plan to help get our state back on its feet and thriving.” Community Chamber Coalition of Oregon Co-Chair Jan Mason said she supports Brown’s priority in grounding and leading with racial equity and justice. “Without prioritizing equity we can not have social and racial justice,” Mason said. “We simply cannot achieve economic justice and prosperity without these priorities.” Read the full plan with this story at thechiefnews. com.

CLATSKANIE BULKY WASTE

COVID COMMUNITY OUTREACH TESTING OHSU IS OFFERING COVID TESTING AT NO COST TO YOU!

CLEANUP DAY & Portable Toilet Service

Proudly serving Columbia County since 1970

Saturday, April 10, 2021, 8 am – Noon Clatskanie City Park

ACCEPTED ITEMS for the following fees: Bulky items, such as televisions, dishwashers, stoves, water heaters, washers and dryers, microwaves, furniture, car batteries, scrap metal, computers, printers and monitors, etc.

$10* per car, pickup or utility trailer load Cash Only Location: Columbia County Fairgrounds located at 58892 Saulser Road St. Helens, OR Dates: Wednesdays Time: 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. Sign up: www.ohsu.edu/COVIDVans

SIGN UP TO GET YOUR TEST AT THIS LOCATION How do I get tested? - Go to URL to sign up for your timeslot. - Please carefully follow registration and scheduling instructions. What else do I need to know? - This is an outdoor testing event, so please dress for the weather. - Testing is for those older than 2 months. - If you tested positive before and do NOT have symptoms, you must wait 90+ days before getting another test. - COVID vaccine will not be provided at these events.

*Freon containing appliances, including: refrigerators, freezers and air conditioners, will be accepted for $15 each. Car and pickup tires, off the rims, will be taken for $1 each. Additional monetary donations will be accepted for disposal costs.

Free Shred Truck Service 9 am – Noon