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Toilet paper donation

County to share $28 million

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FRIDAY, APRIL 24, 2020

The Chief

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VOL. 128, NO. 50

Serving the Lower Columbia Region since 1891

Reopening Draft Plan Brown releases reopening framework

Fair, Rodeo suspended

JEREMY C. RUARK jruark@countrymedia.net

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With the release this week of Gov. Brown’s Reopening Oregon Draft Plan, Columbia County Commissioner Margaret Magruder said the plan provides a framework to move forward.

“It offers guidelines and flexibility,” Magruder said. “One size does not fit all in Oregon.”

Magruder said different regions of the state have very different needs and will experience varied impacts as reopening is initiated.

The Oregon Health Authority reported no new COVID-19 deaths in Oregon as of April 22, but on April 23, reported five new deaths, bringing the statewide total to 83 and the total number of cases to 2,127.

As of April 22, Columbia County Health reported a total of 14 COVID-19 cases, no deaths, 496 people have tested negative and nine people have recovered. Magruder said there had been no new COVID-19 cases reported in Columbia County in the past 10 days.

Magruder said the numbers are good news and the county’s public health director is providing science based guidance as to how Columbia County will successfully proceed with reopening.

“As reopening occurs, folks will need to take precautions, practice social distancing and make wise decisions so we do not experience new cases,” Magruder said. “This will be a process in readjusting our course as the circumstances require.”

Brown’s press secretary Liz (Craig) Merah told The Chief that the governor’s draft presentation has been shared widely—with legislators, local county officials, stakeholders, the Associated Press, and other reporters who asked to see a copy.

“We are holding a series of meetings to seek input on the draft plan from business owners, practitioners, and other stakeholders,” Merah said.

“We are emphasizing that this is a draft that is subject to change and for which we are still seeking input, and should not be misconstrued as a final document.”

Merah said that Brown and her administration have been thinking about how to reopen Oregon’s communities and economies since we began enacting social distancing measures “We have been in touch with state and local elected officials, public health experts, and the Governor’s Medical Advisory Panel since then to discuss how to accomplish that goal,” Merah said. “Reopening Oregon is See BROWN Page A3

Contact The Chief Phone: 503-728-3350 chiefnews@ countrymedia.net

Obituaries............A3 Viewpoints...........A4

Chief photo

The Columbia County Fair and Rodeo, normally held in July, is now suspended due to the COVID-19 pandemic, according to a county fair representative. Fair and rodeo planning for this summer’s events at the fairgrounds in St. Helens are continuing, the representative said, pending development with the state’s reopening framework. Follow developments at thechiefnews.com and in the Friday print editions of The Chief.

Changes at City Hall JEREMY C. RUARK jruark@countrymedia.net

A transition is taking place at Clatskanie City Hall.

Long-time Clatskanie Public Works Director Dave True is preparing to retire at the end of this month.

“There has not been a day that I regretted.” ~ Dave True, retiring city public works director

Seely and family, approached the port for 493 acres, all of which overlaps Bailey’s 489 acres, in order to expand their mint farm operations.

The land area comes after Greenwood Resources sold their properties, a large chunk of which went to the Port.

“There has not bee a day that I regretted,” True told The Chief.

True was first appointed as the city’s public works director in 1993. He left in 2002 for year to work with the Oregon Department of Transportation (ODOT) and returned as public works director for the city from 2003 to 2012.

Completing another stint with ODOT from 2012 to 2017, True came back for a third time as Clatskanie Public Works Director.

“It wasn’t all administration,” True said. “I worked with the city crew reading meters and fixing

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Photo courtesy of Seely Mint

Mike Seely and family stand in a field on their mint farm. Seely Mint and Columbia River Ranch were competing for the same land parcel.

Columbia River Ranch renews grazing rights on lease CHRISTINE MENGES chronicle2@countrymedia.net

The Port of Columbia County has approved a new agricultural lease for Columbia River Ranch.

The ranch, owned and operated by Gary Bailey, is located in Clatskanie, where Bailey raises cattle without antibiotics or growth hormones. Bailey

originally leased the land from Greenwood Resources for grazing rights, which sold all of their land, including a parcel to the Port last December.

When the Port bought the land, ownership changed.

The land area in the lease is 489 acres, to be used for cattle grazing.

At the same time, Seely Mint, owned and operated by Mike

See RANCH Page A7

See CITY Page A7

BRANDEE DUDZIC County Commissioner

Position 1

NEIGHBOR • VETERAN • MOTHER Paid for by Brandee Dudzic for Columbia County Commissioner

Brandee2020.com

Poll........................A4 Opinions...............A5 Market Place........A6 Public Notices......A6 Police Blotters.....A8

JUSTICE WITH INTEGRITY COLUMBIA COUNTY CIRCUIT COURT JUDGE DISTRICT 19, POSITION 3 Endorsed by: The Honorable Judge Cathleen B. Callahan, Circuit Court Judge of Columbia County • Stephen D. Petersen, attorney in Rainier • Agnes M. Petersen, attorney in St. Helens • David B. Herr, attorney in Scappoose

Paid for by Clarke 4 Judge

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Friday, April 24, 2020

Traffic crash claims Rainier woman STAFF REPORT chiefnews@countrymedia.net

A Rainier woman has died in a traffic crash along Highway 30.

At approximately 5:30 p.m. Wednesday, April 15, Rainier Police and other local law enforcement agencies responded to a traffic crash in the 500 block of East Highway 30.

Investigators said according to witnesses and those involved in the crash,

Viola Ranch, 88, of Rainier, was driving a silver Lincoln MK7, which made a u-turn in front of another vehicle that was traveling eastbound on Highway 30.

The driver of the vehicle traveling east was unable to stop before hitting the Lincoln MK7. As first responders arrived at the crash scene, Ranch was transported to the hospital by ambulance where she later succumbed to her injuries.

The occupants of the other vehicle had minor

injuries and were not transported by ambulance, according to investigators.

Authorities did not identified the driver or occupants of the vehicle that hit the Lincoln.

An Oregon State Police traffic reconstructionist responded and performed an investigation into the crash, which is the procedure in such motor vehicle accidents.

Highway 30 was closed for nearly two hours during the crash investigation.

Courtesy photo

Law enforcement officials are advising of scammers looking to steal the money you might receive from the federal government’s COVID-19 stimulus payments.

Stimulus check scams

Photo courtesy of Columbia County

Commissioner Henry Heimulller, volunteers, and Cascades Tissue Group employees point at their first truck full of toilet paper after an hour of loading boxes at the warehouse in Scappoose. The product will go to the Community Action Team, food banks, senior centers and other social service organizations that can distribute it to those in need.

300 cases of toilet paper donated to county agencies STAFF REPORT chiefnews@countrymedia.net

The Cascades Tissue Group in Scappoose is making a special needed donation to Columbia County.

With toilet paper in high demand and sometimes difficult to find during the COVID-19 pandemic, Columbia County has reached out to the Cascades Tissue Group for help supplying local organizations and citizens in need, according to a release from the Columbia County Board of Commissioners.

“On Friday, we got a call back from the local plant manager, Brian Dietz, and said they’d really like to help us out and offered to give us 300 cases of toilet paper to distribute to those folks,” Columbia County Commissioner Henry Heimuller said.

It took a group of volunteers, with help from the work crew, two trips to unload the full supply at the Columbia County Fairgrounds, according to the County release. The product will go to the Community Action Team, food banks, senior centers and other social service organi-

zations that can distribute it to those in need.

“Everybody’s trying to make this work and do things for others and help our own neighbors out a little bit,” Heimuller said.

“So, special thanks to our business partners and certainly to Cascades Tissue in Scappoose.”

Cascade Tissue operates a $64 million paper products manufacturing facility in Scappoose.

If you’ve been unable to find toilet paper, call the Columbia County Board of Commissioners Office at 503-397-4322.

The following stimulus check fraud advisory has been issued by the Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office.

We know there’s been a flood of information and updates about the government’s economic impact payments, or so-called stimulus checks, lately. But quickly and safely moving massive amounts of money into the hands of those who need it is a big job with a lot of moving parts.

We also know that the more you know about the process, the less likely you’re going to be tripped up by calls, text messages, or emails from scammers trying to steal your money or personal information.

Here’s what you need to know about the stimulus payments and how to avoid scams related to these payments.

Who will get money?

Adult U.S. residents that meet established income limits are eligible to receive money from the government.

This includes: Taxpayers – people who filed a federal tax return for 2018 or 2019.Retirees – people who get Social Security, Railroad, or other retirement benefits.

Beneficiaries – people who get public benefits like SSDI, disability, or veterans’ benefits.

Non-filers – people who do not have to file a federal tax return, including people who made no income or made less than $12,200 (or $24,400 for married couples).

What to do Most people don’t have to do anything to get their money because the IRS will use the same payment method – direct deposit, Direct Express debit card, or paper check – used to send you your tax refund, Social Security, retirement, or other government benefits money.

If the IRS doesn’t have your direct deposit information, you can go to the “Get My Payment” feature at irs. gov/coronavirus and let them know where to send your direct deposit.

If you don’t usually file a tax return, go to irs.gov/coronavirus to access the “Nonfiler” portal and to figure out what, if anything, you have to do to claim your money.

To check on the status of your payment, you can now use the “Get My Payment” feature at irs.gov/coronavirus.

Avoiding Coronavirus stimulus payment scams Scammers are using these stimulus payments to try to rip people off. They might

try to get you to pay a fee to get your stimulus payment.

Or they might try to convince you to give them your Social Security number, bank account, or government benefits debit card account number.

Here are steps to take to avoid a Coronavirus stimulus payment scam: • Only use irs.gov/coronavirus to submit information to the IRS – and never in response to a call, text, or email.

• The IRS won’t contact you by phone, email, text message, or social media with information about your stimulus payment, or to ask you for your Social Security number, bank account, or government benefits debit card account number. Anyone who does is a scammer phishing for your information.

• You don’t have to pay to get your stimulus money.

• The IRS won’t tell you to deposit your stimulus check then send them money back because they paid you more than they owed you.

That’s a fake check scam.

Report scams to the Federal Trade Commission at ftc.gov/complaint. To keep up with the latest scams, sign up for the FTC’s consumer alerts. **Information from https://www.consumer.ftc. gov.

COVID-19 Columbia County Heroes: Every Child Columbia County

Qualified.

Experienced.

Paid for by Committee to Retain Judge Grant

Retain Judge Jenefer Grant Columbia County’s trusted local news source

United Way of Columbia County is excited to feature agencies, individuals and programs who are taking a lead in meeting the basic needs of our neighbors during COVID-19. Today, United Way of Columbia County is highlighting a program that serves vulnerable children and supports families impacted by foster care through relationships and partnerships—Every Child Columbia County.

Every Child Oregon is a statewide movement that mobilizes communities to wrap around foster families, relative caregivers and birth families with encouragement and support as a way to both preserve families and help sustain and retain families who are standing in the gap through foster care.

Each county’s Every Child movement is backed by a local non-profit which provides funding, staffing and direction. In Columbia County, Every Child’s backbone organization is Riverside Community Outreach (RCO).

During COVID-19, foster families, like many in Columbia County, are feeling additional strain due to loss or reduction of household income and school-age children being in the home for extra hours. Every Child has been busier than ever meeting the needs of families by providing tangible needs such as groceries, educational resources, bedding, baby supplies, and extra activities to entertain children. Thanks to Every Child, help for foster families is just a phone call away!

Abby Olson, Every Child Columbia County Executive Director says, “Now, more than ever, it is important to wrap around foster children and foster families that continue to support them. We want to make sure families have the resources they need in order to continue to provide safe, loving homes for children in foster care.”

To learn more about how you can support families impacted by foster care in Columbia County during COVID-19, visit www.riversidecommunityoutreach.org.

United Way fights for the health, education, and financial stability of every person in Columbia County.

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Friday, April 24, 2020

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•O bituaries • • Keith A. Sutfin

Jan. 9, 1931 ~ April 10, 2020 Keith Allen Sutfin was born in Clatskanie, Oregon to Jack and Margaret (Anundi) Sutfin.

He grew up in Westport, Oregon and graduated from Westport High School where he excelled in sports. After high school he served in the U.S. Air Force, Strategic Air Command for four years during the Korean War. While stationed near Riverside, California he met his wife, Shirley Walling and they were married for 62 years before her passing in 2017. Keith attended Linfield College where he earned his teaching degree.

His first teaching position was in Perrydale, Oregon where he made many lifelong friends. He spent most of his career teaching and coaching

sports at Knappa and Westport, Oregon schools.

Keith was a member of the Westport Community Church and he served on the Clatskanie PUD Board of Directors for many years. He spent his retirement years logging the

family property, gardening and raising cattle. He enjoyed owning and operating the Kerry West Marina up until his final days.

He is preceded in death by his wife Shirley; parents; and sister Delvera Smith.

Survivors include sons, Matt Sutfin (Irene) in Rainier and Allen Sutfin (Darcy) in Westport; daughter Andrea Bacon (Tim) in Longview, Washington; three grandchildren, Alissa Sutfin, Erik Sutfin (Kellie) and Chad Sutfin (Chelsea); two greatgrandchildren and one on the way; and special friend Jane Philipps in Corvallis, Oregon.

Per his request, cremation has taken place. Internment and service will take place on a later date.

Michael Glenn Byrum

Aug. 20, 1957 ~ April 15, 2020 Michael Glenn Byrum 62, of Clatskanie, Oregon, passed away on April 15, 2020 at his home in Clatskanie.

Courtesy of Gov. Brown’s office

Read Gov. Brown’s Reopening Oregon Framework Draft Plan at thechiefnews.com.

BROWN From Page A1 not a process that will happen overnight or statewide all at once, and we recognize that some areas of the state will take longer to reopen than others. However, there are clear differences between the COVID-19 case numbers in urban and rural Oregon counties –– for example, a number of counties in eastern Oregon have no cases or very few cases currently.

Merah said Brown recognizes the “incredible sacrifices that Oregonians have made to comply with social distancing measures,” and credits their early action to comply with those measures in part for the relatively low infection numbers the state is now seeing.

Timelines for reopening communities will be driven by solid data on the spread of COVID-19, county by county as appropriate, and as each region is able to meet criteria set forth for a safe reopening, according the Brown’s draft.

“Given current data trends, we would expect that the first counties that could be eligible to begin the process of reopening will be in rural Oregon—but only if we can ensure those counties have adequate testing capacity, sufficient supplies of personal protective equipment, and the public health staff for contact tracing,” Merah said.

On Thursday, April 23, Brown announced that she is lifting her order delaying nonurgent procedures for health care providers.

Brown said the order will be lifted as long as the health care providers can demonstrate they have met new requirements for COVID-19 safety and preparedness.

Hospitals, surgical centers, medical offices, and dental offices that meet those requirements will be able to resume non-urgent procedures on May 1.

“As anyone waiting for an elective surgery knows, ‘non-urgent’ does not mean ‘minor,’” Brown said. “This is incredibly important medical care that we would not have told providers to delay if the threat of COVID-19 had not made it necessary.”

In a statement released Thursday morning, April 23, Brown also thanked Oregonians for the sacrifices she said they have made during this crisis to ensure that our health care workers have the personal protective equipment they need to treat COVID-19 patients.

“Lifting this order will allow our health care system to get up and running again, with appropriate safeguards in place, so that Oregonians can get health care treatment without delay,” Brown said.

Also on April 23, Oregon’s Legislative Emergency Board was scheduled to allocate more than $30 million in emergency funding to sup-

port Oregonians in need of relief due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

According to State Rep. Brad Witt, the funds will be used to support workers and small businesses, provide housing assistance to vulnerable Oregonians and increase federal spending limits to access relief in the CARES Act. The Emergency Board Funding will include: • $12 million for rental assistance and safe shelter alternatives for those who have either lost income due to COVID-19, or are at risk of infection or health problems due to inadequate shelter or housing.

• $10 million for the Oregon Worker Relief Fund to benefit workers who are ineligible for traditional unemployment insurance.

• $10 million for Small Business Assistance, funds will establish a program for businesses impacted by the coronavirus who have no more than 25 employees. This allocation includes $5 million from the E-Board, matched with $5 million in federal funding.

The Emergency Board is composed of members from the Oregon Senate and the Oregon House and has power to allocate state general fund resources.

See the full Reopening Framework Draft Plan at thechiefnews.com. Reporter Christine Menges contributed to this article.

Request for Comments Request for Comments Columbia Pacific Bio-Refinery Columbia Pacific Bio-Refinery 81200 Kallunki 81200 Kallunki Road Road Clatskanie, OR Clatskanie, OR

The Department of Environmental Quality is

The Department of Environmental Quality is inviting written comments on an air quality inviting written comments on an air quality permit renewal. The Standard ACDP is for permit renewal.

Standard ACDP isduring for its regulatingThe emissions generated regulating emissions generated during its operations. operations.

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In the midst of today’s challenges, we are here for you.

We also offer no contact virtual sales appointments as well, please feel free to give us a call St. Helens 503-397-3003.

Courtesy photo

Columbia County Commissioner Margaret Magruder said the timber funds support public safety, public health and other vital county services and are also utilized for fire management programs.

County to share $28 million JEREMY C. RUARK jruark@countrymedia.net

Columbia County will receive a share of $28 million as a part of the Secure Rural Schools (SRS) and Community Self-Determination Act extension.

U.S. Secretary of the Interior David Bernhardt said the funding will go directly to the counties, supporting investments in education, infrastructure, public safety, health services and other critical expenditures made by these jurisdictions.

Columbia County Commissioner Margaret Magruder said Columbia County’s share of the funding is $500,364.64.

“These funds support public safety, public health and other vital county services,” she said. “They are also utilized for fire management programs, like Fire Wise, which addresses wildfire protection. Columbia County welcomes these resources, especially during this time of economic uncertainty.”

According to Magdruger, the funds come from timber harvest on Bureau of Land Management through a program established in 1937 directing 50% of the proceeds of harvest to go directly to the 18 Oregon Counties where the land is located.

“We have a multiple-use and sustained yield mandate to manage public lands for

the benefit of the American the United States, including people,” Bernhardt said. the 18 counties containing “The Trump Administration O&C Lands, according to a is committed to increasing formula set by Congress. timber production to support “Having helped create economic growth and forest the Secure Rural Schools health. This program is one program about two decades way we are being a good ago, and having led the neighbor and supporting House effort to fund it over Western communities.” the last several sessions of “The Bureau of Land Congress, I’m glad it conManagement (BLM) adtinues to provide help to our ministers the Secure Rural rural counties and our public Schools Program along with schools,” U.S. Rep. Greg the U.S. Forest Service, and Walden (OR-02) said. “I’ve our two agencies manage worked closely with House most of the federal lands Leadership and the Trump in western Oregon,” BLM Administration to ensure that Deputy Director for Policy this program is fully funded. and Programs William Perry Getting these payments out Pendley said. “We’re comthe door is especially impormitted to supporting local tant during this pandemic.” communities in these 18 Walden said while the counties through this vital funding is needed, “what we program, and by facilitatreally need is to reform foring sustainable development est management policies, so of timber and other natural we can reduce the size and resources from public lands.” severity of wildfires and proThe BLM manages the duce good paying jobs and SRS program in Oregon and tax revenues in our forest California Railroad Revested counties. I look forward to Lands, known as the O&C continuing to work with my Lands, in concert with the colleagues in Congress and U.S. Forest Service. The the Trump Administration to O&C Lands lie in a checkachieve that goal.” erboard pattern through 18 “Receipt of the SRS counties of western Oregon.

2019 payment to the O&C The lands contain more and Coos Bay Wagon Road than 2.4 million acres of for- Counties is very welcome ests with a diversity of plant funding for counties strugand animal species, recregling financially with the ation areas, mining claims, COVID-19 national emergrazing lands, cultural and gency,” Douglas County historical resources, scenic Oregon Commissioner Tim areas, wild and scenic rivers Freeman said. “The SRS and wilderness. payment also highlights the SRS payments are made need for predictable local ETERSEN LARKE LLC ETERSEN LARKE LLC to over 700 counties across government funding.”

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(503) 556-4120 556-4120 (503) Port helping small businesses STAFF REPORT chiefnews@countrymedia.net

The Port of Columbia County is stepping in to help small businesses in the county navigate the process for state and federal relief funds.

The Port has contracted with Mark Ellsworth, an experienced financial counselor and business consultant.

Ellsworth will assist small businesses throughout the county by identifying which government resources are available and guiding

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“I look forward to working with the businesses in Columbia County and assisting them in making their way through these unusual them through the administra- times,” Ellsworth said.

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The port has hired “The port saw the A need in A tt tt oo rrEllsworth nn ee yy ss on a three-month the community for this type contract, with an option to of assistance and we believe 556-4120 (503) 556-4120 (503) extend an additional thirty providing this resource days, starting on Monday, fits in with our mission of April 20.

This serviceDeath is Accidents •Personal Injury •Wrongful Death Accidents •Personal Injury fostering local economic op- open to•Wrongful any small business portunities to create and sus- within Columbia County, tain jobs,” Port ofNo Columbia No Fee Until Until Recovery Fee Recovery and is not limited to those County executive director within the port district.

O r e go n & W a sh in gto O r erealgo n & W a sh in gto nn Doug Hayes said. “We ize a lot of businesses within Local businesses seeking FREE INITIAL CONSULTATION FREE INITIAL the county do not have this CONSULTATION assistance are encouraged to type of advocate available contact Ellsworth by phone to them, and the port wants at 503-369-4827, or email to provide them with this at, ellsworth@portofcolumservice.” biacounty.org.

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Friday, April 24, 2020

•V iewpoints • •

An ‘independent bunch’ BOB BRAJCICH Chief Guest Column

They say we are living in uncertain times. One thing we are certain on, is that the coronavirus is a terrible thing.

It has pushed our health care system to the brink and raised havoc with our economy. We must wait for testing, a treatment, and a vaccine.

The only tool we have to help is social distancing.

The good news is that Oregon is doing a good job of this. Clatskanie is doing a great job. Maybe it is because we are an independent bunch, who likes being outdoors alone. Maybe it’s because we think that 10 people is a crowd that is just to big to be around anytime.

To protect our health care workers, our store clerks, and gasoline attendants we must keep up the good work. Stay

home as much as we can.

Stay six feet apart when we have to go out, and wash our hands and keep our hands off our face.

One thing that can help is wearing a mask, covering our face. I know this is not something we are used to doing. Some of us will feel that it makes it look like we are overreacting, but each of these steps are meant to protect ourselves and other people.

These steps are also a great way of showing your neighbor and the store clerks that you care about their safety.

I would like to thank the city council for reacting fast to the changes we made to cover this virus.

I would thank our city manager Greg Hinkelman for putting a policy in place that keeps staff and crew safe and the City up and running.

The young people of Clatskanie have done a great

job of taking the COVID-19 pandemic seriously. The basketball court and skate park are empty. Unfortunately, our students’ education has been disrupted by COVID-19 and there are no spring sports.

I would like to thank students, parents, teachers, staff, bus drivers and the Clatskanie School District for taking on Social Distance Learning.

A great concern is our local small businesses. They have served us well and now they are going to need us more than ever. SHOP LOCAL. We have ‘Taco Tuesday’. Maybe we can now have ‘Take-Out Thursday.’

Keep up the good work.

Stay safe, stay healthy and stay apart.

We will get together for the Fourth.

Bob Brajcich is the Mayor of Clatskanie. He may be reached by calling Clatskanie City Hall at, 503-728-2622.

More than $30 million planned for COVID-19 relief BRAD WITT Chief Guest Column

Oregon’s Legislative Emergency Board was expected to meet April 23, to allocate more than $30 million in emergency funding to support Oregonians in need of relief due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

The funds will be used to support workers and small businesses, provide housing assistance to vulnerable Oregonians and increase federal spending limits to access relief in the CARES Act. The Emergency Board Funding will include: • $12 million for rental assistance and safe shelter alternatives for those who have either lost income due to COVID-19, or are at risk of infection or health problems due to inadequate shelter or housing.

• $10 million for the Oregon Worker Relief Fund to benefit workers who are ineligible for traditional unemployment insurance.

• $10 million for Small Business Assistance, funds will establish a program for businesses impacted by the coronavirus who have no more than 25 employees. This allocation includes $5 million from the E-Board, matched with $5 million in federal funding.

The E-Board was scheduled to conduct a virtual meeting Thursday, April 23, to take up these allocations and others.

Stay Home Order The Governor’s Stay Home, Save Lives executive order has led to successfully controlling the virus and Oregon has one of the

lower infection rates in the country. Oregonians have sacrificed a great deal, including economic security, to keep our frontline workers safe and to flatten the curve so our healthcare system is not overwhelmed.

Now is the time to plan for a methodical restart of our economy. The Governor is working with various advisory panels to determine the best way to lift restrictions, while still keeping the virus at bay, and preventing another surge in infections.

She cautions that when we do reopen, until there is a vaccine or treatment, we will need to do things differently, like fewer tables in restaurants, maintaining social distancing, and folks wearing facemasks.

There is no definite timeline for lifting restrictions as of yet. I am optimistic,

however, that rural areas such as ours will be among those to reopen the soonest, based on risk. My office has a daily briefing with the Oregon Health Authority and the Governor’s office.

Our state epidemiologist is following the numbers closely and has said that his recommendation to begin reopening will only come when the following protocols are in place: • Decline in cases and deaths for a 2 - 3 week period.

• Adequate PPE to re-open hospitals, protect frontline workers and testers.

• Adequate tests - 15K per week • Public Health contact teams in place to trace infection outbreaks • Quarantine/isolation plans for those testing positive

Things are changing rapidly, but the Governor is expected to release a more detailed draft next week which will combine her criteria with President Trump’s recommendations. By May 4, the Governor could have a firm plan for reopening parts of Oregon’s economy, probably in rural areas where there are no, or few coronavirus cases.

I support opening businesses in those communities and counties, as long as a 6 foot distance can be maintained and the workforce can be tested to make sure individuals aren’t unknowingly exposing their coworkers.

Those counties would need to have adequate hospital bed capacity in case of a surge in coronavirus infections, as well as sufficient personal protective equipment to protect frontline workers.

Monitoring your comments As is the case with many public spaces, the Capitol Building remains closed to the public, but we monitor our email and phone daily, and we are working to assist constituents. If you need help or have an issue or concern regarding a state agency, contact my office and we’ll see what can be done.

Please take care of yourself and each other. Be Safe.

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

Rainier School District: Distance learning challenges MICHAEL CARTER Chief Guest Column

With the challenges COVID-19 has presented, we know this is a difficult time for everyone, but together we can make it through. The Rainier School District is providing the following services to ensure our students and community are cared for: • Free daycare (Cougar Care) for first responders, emergency workers, health care professionals, and essential personnel • Free breakfast and lunch along set bus routes, with an additional five pick-up locations • Distance learning for all via Google Classroom and/or paper packets • Mental health support for students and families • Special Education services and support • Senior activities

Cougar Care Cougar Care is free for children of our community’s first responders, emergency workers, health care professionals, and essential personnel during the COVID-19 crisis. Cougar Care is located at Hudson Park Elementary and operates from 6 a.m.-8 p.m., Monday-Friday. Currently, we are serving 18 children in the emergency childcare program. Cougar Care will operate through June 9, 2020.

Meals/student deliveries Our Nutrition Services department has been working tirelessly to ensure children ages 1-18 are provided with breakfast and lunch daily.

Meals are delivered daily via bus routes. Delivery of tech packs (Chromebooks) and paper instructional packets are coordinated with the

meal deliveries. Student and family needs are frequently changing, and Rainier School District is committed to responding to the needs of everyone in a timely and supportive manner.

Distance learning for all Rainier School District offices and schools closed on Monday, March 16. While our schools are closed, learning has continued from home. Distance learning was implemented on April 6th across the district, where students and staff continue virtual learning from home.

Computers are delivered to all families and students upon request.

Rainier School implemented Google Classroom for virtual learning. Fortunately, most Rainer students are well-versed with Google Classroom, (which is where

The Chief

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Because of space limitations, shorter letters have a better chance of being printed. We may edit your letter for style, grammar and clarity, although we do as little editing as possible. If you don’t want your letter printed under those conditions, just let us know. Thank-you letters are limited to a general thanks and summary of an issue or action. We reserve the right to exclude lists of people, organizations and businesses. Letters received after noon on Friday may not be in time for the following Wednesday’s paper. To verify authenticity, all letters must be signed and include your address and daytime phone number. We won’t print your street address or phone number (just your city of residence). Submissions may be emailed to chiefnews@countrymedia.net, sent via mail, or dropped off at the office.

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links to multiple resources for students and staff are housed). Teachers are posting the assignments to their Google Classroom on a regular basis. Students communicate with their teachers through this platform, as well. Many teachers utilize the Google Meet feature to provide opportunities for live interaction during the week.

Google Classroom allows for two-way communication.

Assignments are posted on Google Classroom by each teacher. If students and parents opt-out of online learning, instructional packets are issued instead.

Mental health services We know many of our families are experiencing challenges and hardships during this unprecedented time.

Our teachers and Mental Health team are working tire-

lessly to personally connect with families virtually on a regular basis. Teachers are able to connect with students and families via live virtual meetings through the Google Meet and Google Classroom platforms. In addition, phone calls and emails are being utilized to also connect with families.

Special education services and support Rainier School District is providing Specially Designed Instruction, which aligns with Oregon Department of Education guidance regarding Distance Learning for All. Case managers are acting as a point of contact for Special Education students and prioritizing parent preference, student need, and family support. Each case manager is providing support focused on care, community,

and continuity of learning.

Senior activities Rainier School District is working on a plan to ensure our seniors get to have a graduation ceremony to recognize their accomplishments and hard work. Every Friday night until June 12, at 8:20 p.m., the football stadium lights are illuminated to honor the class of 2020, and we are adding something new each week.

As we go through these challenging times I am reminded of the words of Rikki Rogers, “strength doesn’t come from what you can do.

It comes from overcoming the things you once thought you couldn’t do.”

Michael Carter is the Rainier School District Superintendent. He may be reached at 503-556-3777.

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Letters Policy The Chief welcomes letters of 250 words or fewer. Letters are subject to editing for length, clarity or grammar. They should be concise, to the point and original. Letters dealing with disputes or containing criticism of private individuals or businesses will not be published. All letters must be signed (unless emailed) and include the author’s full name, address and daytime telephone number (for verification purposes only).

Letters will be published at the editor’s discretion. Letters also may be published on our website.

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.

Guest Commentary We welcome all variety of community viewpoints in the newspaper. These longer, guest opinions might be columns written by newsmakers, public officials or organization representatives. Or you might just have interesting thoughts to share and a penchant for writing. If you’d like to submit a guest column for publication, contact us at (503) 728-3350 or chiefnews@ countrymedia.net.

All columns are subject to editing for style, grammar and clarity.

However, views expressed in guest columns are independent and do not represent those of The Chief, its staff or Country Media, Inc. Editorial Policy Opinions expressed on this page are independent of The Chief views and are solely those of the writers expressing them.

www.thechiefnews.com

Friday, April 24, 2020

• Global warming

•V oices

I support Grant

When the COVID 19 pandemic ends, I hope the public, media and politicians pay as much attention to global warming as they did to the pandemic.

Why? Because global warming is going to kill many more people than the pandemic will.

Stanley Erickson Portland

Re-elect Judge Grant I am supporting the reelection of Jennifer Grant as Circuit Court Judge.

During the past six years as a member of the Columbia County Citizens Review Board for the Oregon Judicial Department, I have observed Judge Grant to be thoughtful, fair, and appropriate in her decisions.

It is important that we maintain consistency and experience on the bench throughout these difficult times. Please join me this May in casting your vote to re-elect Judge Jennifer Grant.

Nancy Bubl Warren

I am a lifelong Columbia County resident.

I have personally known Judge Jenefer Grant since she was a practicing lawyer, 14 years ago. She is bright, level headed, caring, yet strong.

Most important to me though, is her humanity.

I sat in her court room a couple of times. I saw people come before her that were out of their element. Judge Grant could have been all business, brusque, to the point, no feelings. Yet she was kind. She was patient. She put them at ease. She was fair.

I was impressed.

I strongly recommend re-electing Jenefer Grant as Circuit Court Judge. I want an intelligent and caring human being as a judge in our county.

Chuck McCartney St. Helens

of

T he C ommunity • •

In researching judge candidates for the May 2020 election in Columbia County, I found a Spotlight article on the incumbent, Judge Grant, from 2019. I was stunned. As an employment lawyer, I am appalled that Judge Grant was found to have been untruthful during an investigation.

Judges are held to a high ethical standard for good reason. Due to the investigative findings, I support Michael Clarke for Columbia County Circuit Court Judge.

I don’t know Michael Clarke well, but I am very glad he is running in this race. He has both criminal and civil litigation experience, which will serve him well on the bench.

I am promoting him to my friends in the community and I urge you to do the same.

Please help me vote for a change to our local Columbia County judges.

Krista Le Roux Portland

Michael Clarke Mike Clarke for Circuit for Judge Court Judge I live in Columbia City and practice law in Columbia County and throughout the state. My practice area is employment law.

I have represented small business owners and employees, including state employees.

I also appear before judges throughout the state.

A5

I’m endorsing Mike Clarke for his campaign to become judge in Columbia county.

For nearly a decade I have poured blood sweat and tears into my business. Three weeks back, Governor Brown forced our closure to aid subsiding the pandemic. This is my families only source of income.

The decisions I had to make were huge and ever changing by the minute; I was in quicksand. I reached out to Mike Clarke. The mixed emotions of uncertainty as I picked up that phone was nauseating.

If you’ve ever faced a mound of bills without income, you know exactly what I am talking about.

Truthfully, I contacted him only in regards to understanding all of the legal jargon, but thankfully Mike is not just a lawyer. Mike listened to me, not just my problem, but to me. The entire time I talked to him I knew he was a small business owner, a father, son, husband, brother; He wasn’t just some lawyer, but my partner in my time of crisis.

He treated my crisis as his own. Before ending our talk he advised me to let him focus on the legal while I focus only on my husband and kids for just one day. That is a good man. I am a mother of three, business owner and doctor; Mike is the only choice for judge.

Dharmini Pathmanathan Portland

Alex Tardif for Columbia County Commissioner It’s probably human nature, but we often pay attention to

our elected officials only when there is an election.

Sometimes that means we are ready to replace the incumbent with anyone. Or we may support the person already in office.

In the case of Alex Tardif, we want to keep him where he is. He has a track record of making informed financial choices for Columbia County.

In this time of uncertainty, we will need more than ever a strong financial steward of our tax dollars.

With the economic downturn, it is more important than ever that we retain Alex. He is the commissioner with the financial background to weather the next four years.

This is not the time to try someone who is unproven and inexperienced in the finances of our county.

Cathy Pitkin Warren

Grant for Circuit Court Judge When it comes to electing a Circuit Court Judge I’d look for someone who will bring personal and professional assets that are the greatest benefit to the community.

I believe that Judge Jenefer Stenzel Grant has done that.

As a police officer in the community for over 27 years

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there has been plenty of opportunity for me to disagree with the decisions of our judiciary.

It comes with the territory. But I’ve known Judge Grant for over twenty years. I know that she always welcomes a hearty debate and is always going to be respectful and unbiased.

She listens, evaluates facts and makes careful, thoughtful decisions. To me this demonstrates her informed perspective and balanced judgment.

These are all qualities that should be considered in a Circuit Court Judge. She has a generous and empathetic heart with concern for people whose life experiences are different from her own.

For a position like Circuit Court Judge, I think this matters. As a member of the Columbia County Drug Court Team I watched over and over again as Judge Grant met with defendants who were navigating the criminal justice system while struggling with their horrible addictions. She treated each one of them with respect and kindness, but expected their accountability. She weighed her decision making process against the probable outcomes and the results were generally very positive.

The decision on who should be a Circuit Court Judge is an important one. I hope that you will give Judge Jenefer Grant your consideration.

Terry Moss Silverton

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As a small business with less than five employees we are respecting the CDC recommendations and limiting person to person contact.

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Columbia County’s trusted local news source

A6

www.thechiefnews.com

Friday, April 24, 2020

Marketplace

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

Just call 503.728.3350

Listings are updated daily at www.thechiefnews.com 150

502

Misc Services

502

Help Wanted

502

Help Wanted

Help Wanted

Paul’s Tree 9-1-1 EMPLOYMENT ation will be given Service Inc. COMMUNICATIOPPORTUNITY to candidates who No bush too small, ONS SPECIALIST Summer Youth are 18 years of age no tree too tall - Call Columbia 9-1-1 Employment - City or older with a valid Paul! Specialized Communications of Clatskanie, OR. Oregon driver’s in danger trees, District (C911CD) The City is seek- license.

Employtake downs, is conducting a ing applications for ment application storm clean-up. hiring process to temporary, part- is required and Time to prune establish an eli- time, youth sum- may be obtained - pruning Lace gibility list for full- mer employment. by calling City Hall Leafed Maples time Dispatchers Work will be super- (503) 728-2622 & ornamental (Communications vised by the Public to arrange getting s h r u b b e r i e s , Specialists). Ap- Works Department Clear an application This Page or chipping, senior or ply online at www. and includes but is download one this notice if public comment will be taken at this meeting.

A Usediscount, veterans columbia911.com/ not limited to vari- at www.cityofclats free estimates. careers. Additional ous manual labor kanie.com.

The NOTICE OF BUDGET CCB# 217173 Lic., information can be COMMITTEE tasks to MEETING maintain deadline for appliBonded & Insured. found on our web- rights-of way and cation is 5:00 pm, 503-440-0723 or of by calling city facilities.

Ad- Wednesday, May A public meeting of the or Budgetsite Committee the ______________________________ State of Oregon, to , _______________________, (County) 503-543-8274.

503-369-6978. (District name) ditional consider13, 2020. EOE.

502

HELP WANTED Rainier Liquor Store Part time work any and all shifts Evenings and Weekends Dependable – Self Started Honesty a must (pass background check) Able to do heavy lifting, bending, stooping Retail experience preferred Only persons wanting to work long term please apply Apply in person at the Rainier Liquor Store

discuss the budget for the fiscal year July 1, 20_____ to June 30, 20_____, will be held at ________________________________________

Place your ad in The Chief. Email Amy at atrull@countrymedia.net.

✁

(Location)

860

Help Wanted

a.m.

p.m. _____________________________________. The meeting will take place on__________________________at __________________________.

950

Storage

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I buy houses and land in any condition.

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(Date)

(Address)

Public Notices

The purpose of the meeting is to receive the budget message and to receive comment from the public on the budget.

This is a public meeting where deliberation of the Budget Committee will take place. Any person may appear at the meeting and discuss the proposed programs with the Budget Committee.

A copy of the budget document may be inspected or obtained on or after __________________________at ______________________________, (Location)

(Date)

a.m. a.m. p.m. p.m. and ________________________________. between the hours of ______________________________

PROTECTING YOUR RIGHT TO KNOW

CC20-1187

CC20-1211

✁

150-504-073-1 (Rev. 10-01-19)

B

Notice of Budget Committee meeting

Use this notice if public comment will be taken at a later meeting.

NOTICE OF BUDGET COMMITTEE MEETING Columbia Columbia SWCD A public meeting of the Budget Committee of the ____________________________ State of Oregon, , _________________________, (District name)

(County)

21 , will be held at ___________________________________________.

20 to June 30, 20_____ 35285 Millard Rd. St. Helens, OR on the budget for the fiscal year July 1, 20_____ (Location)

a.m. p.m.

5:00 05/06/2020 The meeting will take place on ________________________________ at ____________________.

(Date)

The purpose of the meeting is to receive the budget message. This is a public meeting where deliberation of the Budget Committee will take place.

An additional, separate meeting of the Budget Committee will be held to take public comment. Any person may appear at the meeting and discuss the proposed programs with the Budget Committee. The meeting for public comment will be on

✁

a.m. p.m. held at___________________________________________________ 06/17/2020 35285 Millard Rd. St. Helens, OR 6:30 ________________________________ at ___________________________, (Date)

(Location)

05/07/2020 A copy of the budget document may be inspected or obtained on or after __________________________________________________ a.m.

(Date)

a.m.

p.m. and __________________________. p.m.

4:30 8:30 35285 Millard Rd. St. Helens, OR at ____________________________________________, between the hours of ______________________ (Location)

150-504-073-1 (Rev. 10-01-19)

CC20-1216

NOTICE OF BUDGET COMMITTEE MEETING A public meeting of the Budget Committee of the Clatskanie RFPD, Columbia County, State of Oregon, to discuss the budget for the fiscal year July 1, 2020 to June 30, 2021, will be held at Port of Columbia County Offices, 555 SW Bryant St., Clatskanie, OR. The meeting will take place via Public Notice deadline for The Chief: Wednesdays by noon.

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

Is

GoTo Meeting on May 13, 2020 at 6:00 p.m. If allowed, this meeting will be held in person so please check the District’s website for updates.

The purpose of the meeting is to receive the budget message and to receive comment from the public on the budget. This is a public meeting where deliberation of the Budget

Committee will take place.

Any person may appear at the meeting and discuss the proposed programs with the Budget Committee. A copy of the budget document may be inspected or obtained on or after May 11, 2020 at 365 S Nehalem Street, between the hours of 10:00 a.m. and 2:00 p.m.

CC20-1213

NOTICE OF REGULAR BOARD MEETING The Rainier School Board will hold a Regular Board meeting on Monday, April 27, 2020 at 6:30 p.m. Please visit our website for the

livestream link and Public Comments form. Public comments must be submitted by noon on Friday, April 24 to be considered.

A public meeting of the Columbia County 4-H and Extension Service District, Columbia County, State of Oregon to discuss the budget for the fiscal year July 1, 2020 to June 30, 2021 will be held on Wednesday, May 13th, 2020 at 10:30am at the Courthouse, 230 Strand Street, St. Helens, Oregon. The purpose of the meeting is to receive the budget message and to

receive comment from the public on the budget. This is a public meeting where deliberation of the Budget Committee will take place.

Any person may attend to ask questions or comment on the budget document.

A copy of the budget document may be inspected or obtained on or after May 6th, 2020 at https:// extension.oregonstate.edu/ columbia or email Chip.

Bubl@oregonstate.edu or call 503-397-3462 and leave a message to have a copy sent. Notice: If the Pandemic precautions are still in place on May 13th, 2020, the meeting will be conducted digitally via Zoom video conference and by phone or by other electronic means. Information about the hearing process will be placed on the Extension Service website above.

CC20-1207

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE STATE OF OREGON FOR THE COUNTY OF COLUMBIA

Probate Department In the Matter of the Estate of ROBERT ALFRED KEARSLEY, Deceased. No. 20PB01973 NOTICE TO INTERESTED PERSONS NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the undersigned has been appointed personal representative of this estate.

All persons having claims

against the estate are required to present their claims, with vouchers attached, within four months after the date of first publication of this notice to the personal representative at P. O. Box 459, Rainier, OR 97048, or the claims may be barred. All persons whose rights may be affected by the proceedings may obtain

additional information from the records of the Court, the personal representative or the attorney for the personal representative. Dated and first published April 17, 2020. Durell R. Kearsley, Personal Representative.

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

CC20-1217

IMPORTANT MESSAGE REGARDING MUNICIPAL COURT Rainier Municipal Court is currently scheduled for May 20, 2020. Due to the Covid-19 Pandemic, and mandatory social distancing, Judge Phillips will be conducting this scheduled court date by phone.

Court will be scheduled in segments throughout the day and you will be given a designated time to appear. A letter will be mailed to each defendant at the address on

the citation, with the time of their phone appointment. It is the responsibility of the defendant to notify City Hall with a phone number they can be reached at for their scheduled court appointment.

This phone number is required by May 6, 2020, unless the officer wrote down your correct number when you were given your citation.

Please verify this number on your citation. NOTE: If

you do not give us a correct phone number, and we are unable to reach you at the time the court has designated for you, then it will be considered a Fail to Appear, you will be found guilty, and you will be charged all fines and fees appropriate to your case as directed by the court.

Rainier Municipal Court can be reached at 503-556-4027 or by calling City Hall at 503-556-7301.

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Friday, April 24, 2020

A7

Oregon’s jobless claims During the week of April 12 to April 18, the Oregon Employment Department received 36,700 initial claims for unemployment benefits.

Since public health measures began the week starting March 15, Oregon has received about 333,700 initial claims for unemployment insurance.

Helping Oregonians

Courtesy photo

Earth Day is a celebration of efforts to protect the environment.

Earth Day 2020 STAFF REPORT chiefnews@countrymedia.net

Earth Day is typically a time for communities to come together to celebrate the environment.

According to earthday.org, the day marks the anniversary of the birth of the modern environmental movement in 1970.

This year, social distancing prevented community tree plantings and neighborhood cleanups on Earth Day, April 22.

Waste Management recycling education and outreach manager Hanna Scholes said there are other ways to care for the planet and each other in recognition of Earth Day. “Toilet paper, disinfectant wipes, paper towels and tissues have been flying off store shelves as we spend more hours at home to stay healthy and safe due to COVID-19,” Scholes said.

“Waste Management is calling on everyone in Scappoose, Vernonia and across Columbia County to Recycle Right during this time when recyclables are needed more than ever.”

Scholes said recycling is vitally important to our environment, and it has come to play a critical role in certain manufacturing supply chains.

“During the pandemic, recycling cardboard and paper is critically important because manufacturers need these materials to make new tissue and towels as well as packaging and boxes for groceries and medical supplies,” Scholes said. “Think of it as a COVID-19 Call to Action and a way to recognize Earth Day at the same time.”

Here’s what you need to know: Recycle Clean, Dry, Loose • Cardboard (without inside packing materials) • Paper products including newspapers, junk mail, office/ school paper • Paperboard, such as cereal and cracker boxes • Plastic bottles and jugs • Steel, tin and aluminum cans Throw Away • Plastic, latex and cloth disposable gloves, disposable masks • Liquid soap and hand sanitizer bottles that contain residue • Disinfectant wipes • Facial tissues, napkins and paper towels • Disposable plates, cups and cutlery • Takeout containers

• Leftover food and liquids • Plastic bags and plastic film wrap • Hoses, cords, polystyrene foam and other packaging For more Recycle Right tips from Waste Management, visit wm.com/recycleright.

To view recycling guides for Scappoose, Vernonia and across Columbia County, visit wmnorthwest.com and choose your community from the drop-down list.

About Waste Management Waste Management is the leading provider of recycling and environmental services in the North America. In Oregon, the company provides innovative sustainability solutions, from clean air trucks powered renewable natural gas to waste reduction programs that turn food scraps into compost for healthy gardens.

Waste Management uses waste to generate renewable energy, providing enough electricity to power 15,000 homes in Oregon and Washington and more than one million homes across North America.

For more information, visit to wmnorthwest.com, or wm.com.

With our deepest thanks and admiration,

Congratulations to Dave True on your retirement!

20 years of dedicated service to the City and it’s citizens.

The Employment Department continues processing initial and ongoing unemployment benefits claims at a record pace, resulting in $119 million in benefits paid to Oregonians during the week of April 12 to April 18. The agency continues expanding capacity for taking claims, with 520 employees now dedicated to taking unemployment claims, and additional contact center facility planning underway.

Employment Department efforts also continue toward launching the Pandemic Unemployment Assistance (PUA) program. Once open, the PUA program will provide the selfemployed, contract workers, and gig workers not already eligible, along with those not usually eligible due to too few hours or earnings, and those who were going to start work

but could not, with benefits never before available. Programming, testing, and staff training for the PUA program are in progress. Upon successful testing, the Employment Department expects to open the program for applications by the end of April.

Additional information, program updates, and metrics related to the Employment Department’s ongoing response to the unprecedented need for unemployment benefits can be found on the interactive dashboard of the agency’s COVID-19 page.

Initial Claims The Employment Department has detailed information for 31,700 of the initial claims processed during the week of April 12 to April 18.

The greatest number of initial claims continued to come from the leisure and hospitality sector (8,000), which includes hotels and restaurants. This reflects ongoing impacts of public health and safety measures related to the COVID-19 pandemic. Since the week of March 15 to March 21, there have been about 60,800 initial claims filed from leisure and hospitality.

Other sectors with the

largest initial claims totals for the past five weeks include health care and social assistance (30,900) and retail trade (24,300). Every sector of the economy has seen increased claims activity though. Initial claims totaled 16,500 in professional and business services, and 18,200 in manufacturing since the week of March 15 to March 21.

Multnomah (6,800), Washington (4,000), and Lane (2,900) counties had the largest number of claims during the week of April 12 to April 18. These three counties have consistently had the largest number of initial claims in recent weeks. More initial claims data by industry and area can be found on the QualityInfo. org COVID-19 page.

To file an online claim for unemployment benefits, go to Oregon.gov/employ or call 1-877-FILE-4-UI. For help finding jobs and training resources, contact your local WorkSource Oregon center or go to WorkSourceOregon.org. Equal Opportunity program — auxiliary aids and services available upon request to individuals with disabilities.

Contact: (503) 947-1794. For people who are deaf or hard of hearing, call 711 Telecommunications Relay Services.

CITY From Page A1

leaks. The one thing I like about this job is that it allows me to get out and do the hands on work and work with the crew.

True said he was 39-years-old when he started with the City of Clatskanie and now he is 66.

“I was able to raise my family in Clatskanke,” he said. “It is a real nice small town. Close to things. We were able to achieve our goals and public works is important because we take care of people’s water. It is rewarding to a lot more of the hands on work in a small town compared to a large city.”

Looking over his years of service to the city, True said he and his public works team accomplished over the years.

“We replaced pretty much all of the older water distribution system,” he said. “We updated that from a manual system to an automated system at the plant, so its now operated more computerized.”

True said the updated city water system now allows public works to easily adjust chemical flow and water conditions.

“What we have accomplished over the years has been a team effort,” True said. “I have always been lucky because I have always had really good people to work with. Also, the city council has been very supportive.”

True said perhaps his most memorable time as public works director was the flood of 1996.

“It was pretty devastating to the community,” he said. “Our watershed took a hammering but we got in business in a relatively short period of time.”

Jeremy C. Ruark / The Chief

Dave True is preparing to retire from his position as Clatskanie Public Works Director.

True said he’ll miss the day-today routine with the city.

“I will miss the folks I have worked with for the past 40-plus years,” he said.

“But it will be nice to do something else.”

True said he plans to stay in Clatskanie with his wife, who he said already has a honey-do list waiting for him as he retires at the end of this month.

True’s wife is a former Clatskanie School District employee and had managed the city pool for a time before becoming what True calls the “Granny Day Care.”

“She takes care of our two grand daughters,” he said.

True’s older daughter and son-in-law are teachers with the Clatskanie School District. His second daughter is an airline flight attend and works out of the area.

Clatskanie City Manager Greg Hinkelman said True has been a valuable part of

the city administration.

“Dave has been a delight to work with over the last several years and I have relied heavily on his knowledge and expertise during those years,” Hinkelman said. “He has been a great contributor to the community and has always looked out for the wellbeing of the city and the employees who worked for him. He viewed everything from the lens of what is best for the city. I will miss our daily interactions. The city and broader community are grateful beneficiaries of his service. “ The city has hired Harpiar Gandhi as the new public works director. He began work on March 9 shadowing True. Gandhi comes from British Columbia with 20 years of public sector experience.

True’s advice to Gandi is simple.

“Work with the crew and be receptive to the public,” he said.

RANCH

see how they make their products and have a tour of their farm on a wagon ride covered in peppermint.

“You’d smell like peppermint for the next week,” Seely said.

“We want to clean it up, turn some if it into peppermint/spearmint farming, improved pasture and cattle, and do that as quickly as possible,” Seely said later.

Seely estimated the entire operation could create as many as 300 jobs.

“We think it could be a really, really big deal,” Seely said.

While Columbia River Ranch was chosen for the 489 acres, Seely Mint is still in talks with the Port for a separate parcel of 256 acres.

“The port believes that we can assist both farmers,” Public Relations Representative for the Port Gina Sisco said.

The port made its decision April 22.

From Page A1

According to Port documents, Bailey reached out to the Port when this was happening to see if he could continue his cattle grazing permits, previously held with Greenwood, on the entire tree-farmed land.

Bailey had been the tenant on the land for 10 years, prior to the port buying the parcel, Bailey said.

Before the port made their decision, Mike and son, Warren Seely presented their reasoning for obtaining 493 acres for the expansion of their mint farm operation, which would have been used for what Seely termed their “valueadded” side: the chocolates and their tea line.

Seely said he is interested in starting up an agrotourism business, where people can come and

Columbia County’s trusted local news source

A8

www.thechiefnews.com

Friday, April 24, 2020

Daughtry retiring as CCET Director JEREMY C. RUARK jruark@countrymedia.net

Columbia County Economic Team (CCET) executive director Chuck Daughtry will retire at the end of this month and move to Arizona. He has served as CCET executive director since July of 2013.

Daughtry said his decision to retire is “mostly personal.”

“There have been lots of changes in my life recently,” he said. “It’s just time for me to attend to other responsibilities and leave this very difficult job to younger people who have better organization skills and more energy.”

Daughtry cited a number of accomplishments that are benefiting the county during his time in office, including, local communities’ revenue growth through recapturing more of the enterprise zone incentive, the recruitment of Cascade Tissues and the expansion at Rightline Equipment.

During Daughtry’s time at CCET executive director, the county experienced the establishment of the Oregon Manufacturing Innovation Center next to Scappoose Industrial Airpark, growth

in the energy sector at Port Westward, development of the “Keep It Local” campaign, and launching of the Columbia County Tourism Initiative.

“With Ed Freeman’s 600 acres coming online at the airport, Daughtry said, “we now have the most desirable industrial property in the whole Vancouver Hillsboro Portland metropolitan area.

Columbia County economic future is incredibly secure.”

As the CCET executor director, Daughtry said he encountered several challenges.

“In business recruitment and retention failure is the name of the game,” he said. “The loss of Armstrong was devastating for our community with the loss of jobs and revenues to the City. It’s a great site and we have a few active leads but nothing has popped. The loss of Photo Solutions in Vernonia was very emotional after a tremendous effort and not being able to get Northwest Innovation Works.”

Daughtry said his biggest regret is not shifting CCET’s revenue streams from public funds to private funds.

“Some people are too myopic and need to focus more effort on collaboration

Rainier Police April 11 Joshua Murray, 45, of

Longview, was cited and released on suspicion of shoplifting the week prior.

April 12 Officers checked on an alarm at a business. The building was cleared and secured.

April 13 Shannon House, 51, of Kelso, was taken into custody for reckless driving after she drove into oncoming traffic, causing other vehicles to dodge her vehicle and

in various areas of business development and government agencies.

“We were fortunate that Paul was available at this critical time,” Blumberg said. “CCET will be vital in connecting Columbia County businesses to the resources that will help them through the difficulties caused by the coronavirus pandemic. Paul is the right person for the job.”

“It was important to find someone with local ties and Paul has worked extensively in Columbia County,” Columbia County Commissioner and CCET board member Henry Heimuller said “He is very familiar with the landscape. This is a crucial time for local business, especially with the South Columbia County Chamber staff transitions.

CCET is our connection to Business Oregon and other resources that will enable us to weather the hard times and move into the future.”

According to its mission, CCET provides services that support the creation, growth, and retention of Columbia County businesses. CCET also oversees the enterprise zone program, the ‘’Keep It Local” campaign, and the Columbia County Tourism Initiative.

the wife to the hospital and took responsibility for taking care of the man.

alarm at city hall. The building was found to be secure and the alarm was reset.

April 14 Mason Ketterman, 25, of Rainier, was taken into protective custody after assaulting a family member.

An officer got a call regarding an alarm at a local business.

The alarm had apparently been set to test mode.

April 18 George Hughes III, 49, of Rainier, was taken into custody and lodged at the jail on an outstanding warrant.

peroni pirates remain at large.

Vandals at the marina caused a couple of thousand dollars in damage by setting fires in the bathrooms. If you have information regarding this case or the theft at the snack shack, please contact Sgt. Manning at 503-397-1521.

Courtesy photo

Columbia County Economic Team executive director Chuck Daughtry is preparing to retire at the end of this month.

“Columbia County’s economic future is incredibly secure.” ~ Chuck Daughtry, CCET Director and building good working relationships,” he said.

“More listening and less talking. I need that in my life too.”

Daughtry said meeting extraordinary people, such as Robert Blumberg, and to see Columbia County’s

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

the Warren Country Inn, Marks on the Channel, the Wild Currant, Colvins, the Interstate Cafe, Flowers & Fluff, Dockside, the Brown Butter Bakery and Vernon’s Blue Cafe,” he said. “All these local eateries need our support.”

Daughtry said finishing his career in economic development in Columbia County, “has been extremely rewarding. It’s been an exciting time to be here,” he said and he give his advice for the person the board selects as his permanent replacement.

“Don’t gossip.” He said.

“It’ll ruin relationships.”

“Chuck has done great work for CCET and we wish him well in his retirement,” CCET Board President Robert Blumberg said.

Paul Vogel has been appointed as interim CCET executive director and is working with Daughtry through the end of the month. Vogel is expected to serve for 60-90 days while a search committee appointed by the CCET board fills the full-time position.

Blumberg said Vogel comes to CCET with years of experience as a communications consultant, energy executive and business strategist, and with connections

beauty spots, like Beaver Falls, Scappoose Bay, Vernonia, Birkenfeld, and Clatskanie, have been a few of the rewards of his job as executive director.

“I got to eat some incredible food at Hob Nob, the Cornerstone Cafe,

•B lotters • •

ultimately crashing into the curb rendering her vehicle inoperable.

Officers were dispatched to a disturbance. A man had apparently been making statements that he was going to jump into the river and kill himself. When he took off running, his wife chased after him and fell into a hole and sustained a leg injury. The man told officers he was not suicidal, but he was drunk and had been making stupid statements. Relatives transported

April 15 An officer responded to an

April 19 Unknown subjects broke into the snack shack at the Little League field, caused damage to the building, and stole some meat sticks. The pep-

April 20 Several items were taken from a vehicle parked on East E Street. The thief also broke the ignition in the vehicle.

PPE for care homes STAFF REPORT chiefnews@countrymedia.net

The Oregon National Guard is distributing approximately 395,000 pieces of personal protective equipment (PPE) to all long-term care facilities across Oregon, including those in Columbia County.

The rapid distribution of masks, gloves, and face shields is aimed to immediately supplement efforts by the Department of Human Services and the Oregon Health Authority to support facilities by helping prevent the spread of COVID-19 to residents and staff.

Gov. Kate Brown said the staff of Oregon’s longterm care facilities are on the front lines of Oregon’s fight against COVID-19, and she is committed to protecting their health and safety.

“This critical equipment will help protect both them, and the residents of these

facilities, who are among the most at-risk Oregonians for exposure and infection,” Brown said. “Thank you to our tireless National Guard members for making this rapid distribution of personal protective equipment possible. We continue to prioritize securing more PPE, including working with local manufacturers and the federal government to procure additional resources.”

“We continue to prioritize securing more PPE.” ~ Kate Brown, Oregon Governor The shipments of PPE to Oregon’s long-term care facilities include approximately 177,000 surgical masks, 127,000 gloves, 55,000 N95 masks, 33,000 face shields, and 2,500 gowns.

“Long-term care providers across the state have

been in dire need of personal protective equipment to ensure that our caregivers can follow best practices for infection, prevention, and containment,” Marquis Companies clinical services vice president April Diaz said. “We are grateful to all those involved in acquiring these much needed resources for Oregon’s long-term care facilities.”

“Long-term care workers are on the front lines of this crisis, but just like every other year, they are under supported,” SEIU 503 executive director Melissa Unger said. “Prioritizing PPE for these facilities will save lives and protect the front-line workers who are putting their health at risk to support Oregon’s seniors and people with disabilities.”

Members of the Oregon National Guard began deliveries of the personal protective equipment Saturday, April 18.

Clatskanie PUD Employees & Board Directors Personally Donate $11,400 to Local Food Banks

The Clatskanie PUD staff and board participated in an internal fundraiser to help the two local food banks, Turning Point in Clatskanie and HOPE in Rainier. They personally donated $11,400 which will be divided equally between the two organizations.

This is the largest fundraiser they have ever achieved with 100% participation of the employees and board directors, that more than doubled their highest amount from previous food bank fundraisers.

The employees and board directors wanted to find a way to give back in a big way to support the communities they serve. The Clatskanie PUD staff and board really stepped up to make the food drive a success, and help those in need during this challenging time!

495 E Columbia River Highway Clatskanie, OR | 503-728-2163 www.clatskaniepud.com | www.facebook.com/clatskaniepud Columbia County’s trusted local news source