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‘A’ Street Improvements

Life in Clatskanie

nearly finished! Page A2

FRIDAY, MAY 15, 2020

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The Chief

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VOL. 129, NO. 1

Serving the Lower Columbia Region since 1891

Reopening Columbia County

Jeremy C. Ruark / The Chief

A family looks down the Columbia River on Sunday, May 10. More and more people ventured outside over the past weekend following Governor Brown’s announcement on May 7 that Oregon will begin to reopen following the COVID-19 pandemic. Columbia County’s reopening application has been approved.

JEREMY C. RUARK jruark@countrymedia.net

Slow start to New Normal

C

olumbia County has qualified for Phase I of Gov.

Brown’s Reopening Framework.

In announcing the approval of what counties qualified, Oregon Gov. Brown said each application from the counties was given a detailed review by state officials including the Oregon Health Authority.

Brown said 28 of the 33 applications, including Columbia County have been approved following the COVID-19 pandemic outbreak in March.

In allowing the reopening, Brown said that if there is a spike in COVID-19 cases in individual

communities, the state could reestablish its strict health safety guidelines.

“In each of these counties, we will continue to monitor testing rates and effectiveness of contact tracing, isolation of new cases and hospitalization rates,” Brown

said.

Under Brown’s Reopening Framework, some counties will be eligible to begin the limited reopening of additional business

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See COUNTY Page A4

Fairs, festivals canceled, modified CHRISTINE MENGES chronicle2@countrymedia.net

Jeremy C. Ruark / The Chief

An employee at the Clatskanie Fultano’s checks a pizza. The restaurant has been only open for take out since the COVID-19 pandemic hit this spring.

Clatskanie businesses prepare to reopen CHRISTINE MENGES chronicle2@countrymedia.net

Businesses in Clatskanie, still reeling from the pandemic, are anxious to reopen and are taking measures to begin Phase I of the state’s reopening.

Since the pandemic in March, Farmhouse Coffee in Clatskanie has been doing pretty well, according to owner Deanna Robins.

“We have a lot of support, so we’re very thankful,” she said.

“We don’t have the inside open, but we’re staying good with the drive-through still. We have food

support from the town.”

For sit-down restaurants, the story is a little bit different.

Fultano’s Pizza, owned by Toby Harris, has two locations – one in Scappoose and one in Clatskanie. Scappoose has full service and a dining room, and the Clatskanie location is counter service, and has relied on pickup and delivery since its beginning days.

Harris said the Scappoose location has been hit a little bit harder during the pandemic, running at about 60 percent of its usual service.

“We’re not down as much in

Clatskanie,” he said. “It was already geared more toward delivery and pickup. So there’s already a larger portion of our business in Clatskanie that was pickup and delivery. We’re down but we’re doing great.”

According to Harris, all of Fultano’s employees have been able to continue working, although hours have been reduced. Some of that has been enabled through the natural turnover of employees, Harris said. When employees have

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See BUSINESSES Page A9

Governor Kate Brown’s social distancing order is still in place and has forced local fairs and festivals in Clatskanie and Rainer to either be canceled or severely modified.

Under the state’s social distancing order, large gatherings, including live sporting events with audiences, concerts, festivals, and conventions will not be allowed or should be severely modified at least through September.

Clatskanie City Festival, in its fifth year this year, will still be going on, but many of its activities will be significantly modified, according to organizer Lori Sherman.

Clatskanie Heritage Days Clatskanie Heritage Days, which has been going on since the late 1950s, and is one of the community’s most popular annual traditional events is canceled due to COVID-19.

“It was decided for the safety of our community and in adherence of COVID-19 restrictions in place, all activities for the 2020 Clatskanie Heritage Days event scheduled for July 4th (and otherwise) have been

canceled,” according to the Clatskanie Chamber of Commerce.

Clatskanie City Manager Greg Hinkelman said it was disappointing to have to cancel Heritage Days, but still necessary.

“It’s too bad because it’s been a Clatskanie tradition for decades and decades,” Hinkelman said. “And you have to weigh the public safety aspect of it with the tradition aspect of it. I think it was a prudent decision. It’s something the community always looks forward to, and we won’t be able to have anything of that scale this year.”

Debi Smiley, who leads the committee that does Heritage Days, said the decision was not an easy one to make.

“It was a unified decision for the safety of our community,” she said.

“It was the right decision to make at this time.”

Fireworks, restroom facilities, vendor insurance, and more require advance reservations. Because the length of Oregon’s stay-at-home order is not certain, preemptive planning is not possible, the Chamber wrote in a release issued Friday, May 8.

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Elections...............A3 Opinions...............A4 Obituaries............A5 Market Place........A6 Public Notices....A6-7 Clastskanie Grows A7

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, May 15, 2020

‘A’ Street improvements nearly finished!

JEREMY C. RUARK jruark@countrymedia.net

Rainier’s $12.2 million ‘A’ Street improvement project is on time and on budget to be completed by the end of July, according to the Oregon Department of Transportation (ODOT).

The railroad tracks along the street were replaced from July through October 2019 and the road improvement project started in October of last year, according to ODOT spokesman Lou Torres.

“For the road improvement portion of the project, we are constructing the project in 2-3 block segments,” Torres said. “At this point, the north side (river side) of the tracks is complete through base lift. This includes storm sewers, sidewalks, curbs, luminaire poles, and asphalt paving through base lift. On the south side, we have completed storm sewers, sidewalks, curbs, asphalt paving and base lift from W. 2nd St. to E. 2nd St. and the electrical subcontractor is currently installing luminaire poles.”

The railroad contractor returned this week and is installing the new crossing signals at W. 2nd, E. 1st, and E. 3rd Streets. Torres said that work is anticipated to be completed by the end of this month.

The road improvement contractor Thompson Brothers Excavating (TBE), is currently installing a cured-in-place lining on the sanitary sewers and that work is anticipated to be completed early next week.

“Once the sanitary sewer

work is completed, TBE will install the storm sewer from E. 2nd to E. 6th (south side) followed by curb, base paving, and sidewalks,” Torres said. This is projected to be completed by late June.”

Torres said the top lift of asphalt pavement will be placed after everything else is complete. TBE will pave A street in three days – paving one side of the street each day, then paving side road connections on the third day.

“We have encountered many things during construction, but TBE has done a good job of adapting and has kept the project moving forward,” Torres said. “The major challenges have been unanticipated utility conflicts, underground oil tanks, surprise voids and vaults under the existing sidewalk, and maintaining access for businesses and residents.”

According to Torres, the City of Rainier has added paving improvements on three side streets, and also installed a new waterline on the north side of the tracks to eliminate service crossings under the RR. “The business owners, residents, and business patrons have been very patient with the inevitable disruptions that have resulted from construction,” Torres said. “The City of Rainier’s Public Works Department has also been heavily involved and has played a critical role in addressing and resolving issues as they arose.

We really appreciate the City and everyone’s help and cooperation.”

The ‘A’ Street Improvement

Waterway fatalities rising

JEREMY C. RUARK jruark@countrymedia.net

The Columbia River flows past Clatskanie, Rainier and St. Helens drawing many for water recreation, but there are dangers on the popular waterway and others across the state.

There have been six boating fatalities on Oregon’s waterways during COVID-19 this spring.

The Oregon Marine Board reports that all of the fatalities have two things in common: not wearing life jackets, and cold water.

The Oregon State Marine Board is urging boaters headed to the water during the first warm weekend of the year - especially people in canoes, kayaks, and on standup paddleboards, to dress for the water temperature, not the air temperature. The water is cold.

Oregon Marine Board Boating Safety Program Manager Randy Henry said the spring water fatalities are concerning.

“People are anxious to get out and have fun, but water is serious business,” Henry said. “If you go boating, wear your life jacket, buckle it up, and make sure it’s a snug fit.

Always dress appropriately, and if you’re paddling, dress for the water. A dunking this time of year can be deadly.”

Boating fatalities breakdown The Oregon Marine Board reports four of the six victims were not wearing life jackets. Three were recreating in paddlecraft (kayaks and a canoe), two were in motorboats and one was on a paddle board.

All of the victims fell overboard unexpectedly into cold water, which is trending unlike what the Marine Board has seen in past years, according to Henry.

This season, many people new to paddling or people who haven’t paddled in a while are strongly encouraged to take a free, online Paddling Course to learn about self-rescue, how to re-board your paddlecraft, important equipment/requirements and other safety skills to develop, according to Henry.

“Start out on calm, flat water, and slowly progress to other waterbodies as skills develop,” Henry said. “There are also paddling clubs in many communities as well as online forums with local safety information.”

The Oregon Marine Board also has received many reports of debris and obstructions this spring, so all paddlers and motorboaters should be especially cautious, keeping a sharp lookout on all waterways and starting out slow.

Visit the Oregon Marine Board’s waterway obstruction page to learn where obstructions have been reported and recommendations on how to avoid them.

Many obstructions cannot be immediately cleared.

The open/closed status of boating access changes frequently. The Oregon Marine Board’s interactive Boat Oregon Map is a resource for finding facility contact information to help boaters with their planning and preparation. Remember to respect any closures, stay local, be self-contained, boat with members of your immediate household, and maintain physical distance for your own safety and for those around you.

For more Paddle Smart boating safety tips from the Marine Board and the U.S. Coast Guard, visit https:// www.oregon.gov/osmb/info/ Documents/News-Releases/ Media%20Kit/PaddleSmart. pdf.

Columbia County’s trusted local news source

Project is designed to improve safety along the main street of the City of Rainier, where previously the rail line had bisected the community without any safety barriers.

The specific project improvements • “Daylighting” the rail tracks, moving and realigning them to expose the tracks and eliminate the asphalt road covering of the tracks • Upgrading city utilities • Installing curbing to maintain separation between vehicles and rail tracks • Adding new crossing gates at the intersection of the railway and the road The project has been in the

works for approximately 13 years.

“Including the new A Street Plaza and upgraded utilities, the total cost of the project is $12.2 million with funding coming from nine different sources including a Connect Oregon grant and PNWR required match, ODOT’s Rail and Public Transit Division, Oregon Legislatively approved Regional Solutions funds, Business Oregon and City of Rainier,” Torres said.

Follow the completion of the ‘A’ Street improvement project at thechiefnews.com and in the Friday print editions of The Chief.

Courtesy photo from ODOT

The 12. 2 million ‘A’ Street improvement project in Rainier is expected to be completed by the end of July.

www.thechiefnews.com

Friday, May 15, 2020

A3

Election 2020: Circuit Court Judge race CHRISTINE MENGES chronicle2@countrymedia.net

In the May 19 Primary Election, Columbia County voters will cast their ballots for Columbia County Circuit Court, District 19, Position 3.

The Chief reached out to the three candidates with three specific questions.

Jenefer Grant, incumbent

Courtesy photo

The Chief: What skills do you offer as a circuit court judge?

Jenefer Grant: After more than twelve years on the bench, my judicial skills are well developed. I have become adept at managing jury trials, and have the clear presence of mind needed to avoid mistrials and the expense of retrial. This requires confidence, familiarity with the rules of evidence and jury instructions, good time management, and making sure jurors are able to see and hear the proceedings, among other skills.

One of the most important and challenging aspects of my work is handling juvenile dependency cases. In these situations, children are in the temporary custody of the state, either placed in foster care or with a parent under a safety plan. These cases involve multiple parties and their attorneys, and are governed by complex state and federal law. The decisions I make in juvenile court cases affect entire families, sometimes for generations.

Understanding how to work with the various community partners to make and implement a supportive plan for these families is a skill I have developed over nearly 25 years, first as an attorney

representing children and parents in dependency cases, and continuously, since I became a judge in 2007.

Also very important in our court is the ability to help litigants resolve their disputes without the stress and expense of contested hearings and trials. Our busy docket could not accommodate every case going to trial, so it is essential to help parties settle as many cases as possible.

This is particularly important in family law matters and criminal trials, as it can be devastating for a child or victim to testify against family members. In these instances, I work to help all parties engineer just and equitable outcomes without contested trials. This requires excellent listening skills, a very good understanding of the legal framework in domestic relations and criminal law, and the ability to suggest solutions both sides can see as beneficial. I am proud of my reputation as a good settlement judge.

Another important skill is a familiarity with the social services available both locally and in surrounding areas.

Referrals to appropriate agencies are often necessary for people with mental health challenges, addictions, violent behavior, parenting deficits, and other problems which bring them to court.

The availability of these services changes constantly and having a good grasp of them helps me respond more effectively in the courtroom.

In a relatively small county like ours, judges have to be generalists capable of handling all types of legal disputes and it’s essential to be intellectually nimble. I still encounter legal questions I have not seen before, and knowing how to research and analyze them efficiently is part of effective judging.

The Chief: What do you see as the main challenge you would face as a judge?

Grant: The biggest challenge currently is, and will continue to be, providing prompt and fair resolutions to people’s cases with limited court resources. The financial impact of the pandemic is likely to further restrict our funding, so we will need to be even more creative regarding how to help people access court services and conclude

their legal matters. I will continue to work diligently by hearing matters in court, conducting case management and settlement conferences in chambers, and processing written motions and requests.

I am also on a statewide committee, to which I was appointed by Chief Justice Martha Walters, working to improve our service to self represented litigants in family law cases. Only around 20% of people filing divorce or child custody cases are now able to afford lawyers.

The Chief: What rewards would you take away from this position?

Grant: The rewards of this position have been enormous. More than anything, I like to solve problems and help people. This position has enabled me to do that important work every day. I have been a part of the community here for almost a quarter century, and the opportunity to make people’s lives here better has been the most fulfilling career I can imagine.

I am very grateful for having been able to serve the people of Columbia County.

Michael Clarke

Courtesy photo

The Chief: What skills do you offer as a circuit court judge?

Michael Clarke: As a lawyer, I’m trained and experienced to analyze the law and apply it to the facts in a way that’s best for my client.

A judge uses similar skills, but is impartial and listens to the parties, asks questions, and makes a decision that ensures the law is applied to the facts appropriately. Beyond a lawyer’s skillset, the biggest skill a judge must have is the

ability to listen with a loving heart and an open mind to the unique problems people have. This ability creates a connection to allow the judge to truly understand a person’s problems and ultimately help resolve the problems.

I am a great listener, open minded, and always willing to learn from people and their experiences. I can relate to all walks of life and compassionately consider the problems each person faces.

I have proven these skills as evidenced by my success in my business. The State does not give me clients or pay my rent. I have to attract, retain, and keep clients happy to bring in more clients and earn the money to pay my rent, my employees, and contribute to our economy. As an attorney in private practice, I have only my people skills, problem solving skills, and my name in the community to earn a living and raise my family. Without my ability to talk with, relate to, understand, and communicate with everyday people, I would have been out of business years ago.

The Chief: What do you see as the main challenge you would face as a judge?

Clarke: I expect every day as a judge will be a challenge.

But with experience, the challenges will become less difficult to overcome. Every judge starts at the bottom. Judge Grant came from a background of criminal defense for state provided clients, but can competently make decisions in civil matters.

Judge Callahan came from a background in civil matters, but competently makes decisions in criminal cases. I will follow the same path as all our judges in this county. I’ll learn what I need to know and rely upon my 15 years legal experience in the law. I feel lucky that I have been able to work in most areas of the law; my experience will be a practical asset to rely upon while learning to become the best judge I can be for this county.

I know that even after years of experience on the bench there will be challenges that arise, but I also know there will be help along the way. I have good relationships with current and retired judges in our county. Judge Grove is a wealth of informa-

tion and I look forward to working with him and Judge Callahan to provide the best judicial services in the state for the people of our county.

The Chief: What rewards would you take away from this position?

Clarke: I am expecting this position to be exciting, exhilarating, terrifying, and satisfying. This is how private practice has been for me, and I wouldn’t expect anything less from the job of being judge. The difference is that a judge has a direct and immediate impact on people. Every day a judge’s interactions with people affect so many lives. I am looking forward to that daily interaction where I really can improve someone’s life, or at least put them on a path that will improve lives.

The title “judge” yields tremendous power and an automatic voice in our county.

I believe this voice should be used to improve the judiciary and its role in helping the people of our community. My goal is a career where I can point to an improved judicial system that helps more people of this county through increased efficiencies and better accessibility. My goal is to create a long lasting benefit to our community where I can be proud to have helped make the changes this community needs.

James D. Huffman

Courtesy photo

The Chief did not receive any responses from Huffman before press time, despite numerous contact attempts.

Below is information from the Columbia County Voter’s Pamphlet.

James D. Huffman was a Deputy District Attorney in Columbia County from

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1976-1980. He has been an attorney in private practice in St. Helens from 1980 to the present day. He received a B.S. in Business-Finance from Portland State University in 1970 and a J.D. from the Northwestern School of Law, Lewis and Clark College in 1975. He served two years as Research Editor for the Lewis and Clark Environmental Law Review.

Huffman also has prior governmental experience, first serving as a student intern for Clackamas County District Attorney in 1974. He then served as Deputy District Attorney for the Columbia County District Attorney from 1976 – 1980. He was the Chairman and Board Member of the Scappoose Park and Recreation District in the 1980s and 1990s. He served as a city councilor for the city of Scappoose for four years in the late 1990s. He was a member of the Law Enforcement Advisory Committee of the St. Helens School District.

“I moved to Scappoose on July 4, 1976, with my wife Marilyn and raised three children here. All three are now in professional careers. Marilyn made a career in Scappoose as a grade school teacher,” Huffman said.

Huffman also wrote that he has written successful initiative petitions to benefit Columbia County citizens, such as the Scappoose Pool measure.

“I chose law as a career to fight for justice. As an attorney in private practice, I have been a prodigious volunteer for indigent legal aid clientele and was one of the founding lawyers of Columbia County Legal Aid, which is still in operation. I looked forward to jury trials, and learned much from them in 44 years of trial work, both as a prosecutor and defense attorney. I have seen many judges come and go and know a good one from a bad one. I want to assure every litigant that above all, I will apply the law fairly to both sides of every case, and will apply common sense rather than legal technicalities to all decisions I will make as a judge.”

Follow election results at the Columbia County Elections website and read reaction at thechiefnews.com and in the Friday print editions of The Chief.

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•

Friday, May 15, 2020

•V iewpoints • •

Your Community Newspaper JEREMY C. RUARK jruark@countrymedia.net

The Chief office has now been consolidated with our partner publication, The Chronicle, at 1805 Columbia Blvd. in St. Helens.

This consolidation allows us to combine resources and staff offering a much stronger media operation.

While we have closed the Chief office in Clatskanie, our commitment as your community newspaper isn’t based on brick and mortar.

We have been telling the stories of this community and its people since 1891 and we will continue to do so.

You’ll continue to be able to find out what’s happening in our community in our weekly print editions and daily online at thechiefnews. com.

The online Chief is updated consistently everyday with local, state and national news and information that is directly related to our community. No other media is devoting such time and energy to Clatskanie and Rainier.

In both print and online, we pledge to report not only

the hard and breaking news, but to seek the personal stories of those making a positive difference in our community. We will continue to closely follow activities at our local schools, with features about students, teachers and school staff.

We’ll follow local senior citizens’ and veterans’ activities and concerns. We will continue to closely monitor local government operations, business, the economy, and provide features about arts and entertainment.

And yes, our Life in Clatskanie photo essays will also be featured both in print and online.

We will continue to offer a variety of online and print platforms to strengthen and grow local businesses. That includes our consistent special publications and inserts, which provide additional unique advertising opportunities reaching a widespread audience.

But the reality of COVID-19 and the virus impact is a key element of the future.

Business closures intended to prevent the spread of the coronavirus have dramatically reduced our

advertising revenues. These local businesses rely on newspapers to connect them to potential customers. We in turn rely on their advertising dollars. While we all hope to emerge from this situation soon, there’s no way to predict the duration or severity of the pandemic on the economy.

It’s in times of crises that newspapers are proven most vital. To combat the constant barrage of rumors and hearsay surrounding the virus, newspapers provide accurate information critical to our communities. Our news staff is fully committed to this mission.

Feel free to continue to submit your Letters to the Editor, obituaries, advertisement requests, questions and concerns to The Chief at 503-397-0116. Write us at P.O. Box 1153, St. Helens, OR 97051. The Chief email is thechiefnews.com.

For advertising, contact Amy Trull, at atrull@countrymedia.net.

To reach Publisher/ Executive Editor Jeremy C. Ruark, email jruark@ countrymedia.net.

Thank you for your continued trust and support.

Columbia County’s challenge ALEX TARDIF Chief Guest Column

The Board of Columbia County Commissioners has participated in daily calls regionally, locally, and at the state level with the Governor, related to COVID-19.

We have been working hard to find a safe solution to slowly re-open our county, and we are there.

On Monday, May 11, the Columbia County Board of Commissioners unanimously voted to pass resolution 42-2020. This resolution approved the County’s framework for reopening under the Governor’s criteria for Phase I. That framework was then sent on to the These last couple of months have been challenging times. We, as a society, have been faced with a situation unlike any we have encountered in the past, and yet in some ways similar.

It has felt like we are at war ... and many have been reminded of those terrible events that past generations encountered when life as they knew it completely changed.

This pandemic has caused some of us to pause while others have had to go into overdrive. Some of us are well rested and ready to embrace “normal,” whatever

that might look like now, while others are exhausted and longing for a vacation.

Everyone’s situation looks different, but the common denominator is that both of those dreams are a ways off, and those dreams are about us.

The State and Columbia County have followed strict social distancing measures to flatten the curve and protect ourselves and each other, and especially our community’s most venerable population from this.

We have maintained a low number of cases. We have accomplished our goal. Now the time has come to open back up ... but cautiously.

Soon, we will reopen our communities, but what does Phase I mean? What does “reopen” actually look like?

On paper, it means that restaurants and bars can open to limited reduced customers and must comply with social distancing measures.

It means that we can gather with friends, six feet apart, in groups of no more than 25. (It means I can finally get my hair cut, assuming my barber can meet the state requirements.)

In reality, it will mean we have to continue to work together to social-distance and protect each other from the invisible enemy that is COVID-19. Today was a

big win, well-earned after weeks of hard work ...but it’s just the beginning. There are more phases to come.

We must keep the transmission rate down in order for this to continue to work.

We must walk before we can run, even though some are all ready to sprint to the beaches. (Don’t go to the beach.)

The Board of County Commissioners will continue to facilitate the crucial conversations we’ve been having with the Governor, our regional partners, community members and County team members to lead Columbia County forward, while keeping us safe and well.

We will continue to do our best to remember that we are all stressed out and to meet each other with grace and compassion and carry on with a level head.

We must take care of each other and be kind to one other. We will continue to support and lead our community, we will carry on together, as one, as US. Be well, Alex Alex Tardif is the chair of the Columbia County Board of Commissioners. Tariff and the board members may be reached at 503-3974322.

Weekly Online Poll

Last Week’s Results

As Oregon reopens, will you continue:

Do you approve of Governor Kate Brown’s phased in reopening Oregon Plan?

Social distancing

Wear a face mask Frequently wash your hands None of the above

45% Yes

55% No

Vote online at thechiefnews.com

The Chief

COUNTY From Page A1 sectors beginning as early as May 15 if they have demonstrated they have met all prerequisites for reopening.

• Show a decline in COVID-19 or have fewer than five hospitalizations • Have sufficient COVID-19 testing and contact tracing capability • Establish plans for the isolation and quarantine of new cases • Have the hospital capacity to handle any surge in COVID-19 cases • Have enough personal protective equipment for health care workers In Phase I, counties can begin the limited reopening of the following sectors under specific safety guidelines: • Restaurants and bars for sit-down service • Personal care and services businesses, including barbers and salons • In-person gatherings of up to 25 people See the state’s reopening guidelines attached to this story at thechiefnews.com.

Counties must remain in Phase I for at least 21 days before becoming eligible to advance to Phase I. If counties begin to see significant increases in COVID-19 cases or community spread, the Oregon Health Authority will work with local public health officials to evaluate what actions should be taken.

Significant growth in COVID-19 spread could necessitate a county moving back from Phase I to stayhome status.

“This is Phase I and it has a lot of criteria to meet from the state,” Columbia County Commissioner chair Alex Tardif said. “This is not a wide open free-forall, it’s a slower process to see where it goes. If things don’t go well, we make adjustments. We all have to work together to get to Phase II.” Tardif said steps are being taken by Columbia County during the reopening process to ensure the safety and protection of

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residents and business operations.

“My expectation would be that we follow the criteria set out before us to ensure that we’re all maintaining social distancing and staying healthy,” he said.

Columbia County release The Columbia County COVID-19 Reopening Framework Plan (Resolution 42-2020) was officially approved by the State of Oregon on Wednesday, May 13 and the county can begin Phase I of reopening beginning on Friday, May 15.

In Phase I, Columbia County can begin the limited reopening of the following sectors under specific guidelines and encouraged social distancing: • Restaurants and bars for sit-down service: Requirements include six feet of social distancing; a limit of groups in number to 10 or fewer; food and drink consumption must end by 10 p.m.; and workers are required to wear masks.

For more information about the reopening requirements for restaurants and bars, visit: https://sharedsystems.dhsoha.state.or.us/ DHSForms/Served/le2342B. pdf • Personal service providers (such as barbers, salons, and massage therapists): Requirements include social distancing; appointment-only; and a personal protective equipment and customer list.

For more information about the reopening requirements for personal service providers, visit: https:// sharedsystems.dhsoha.state. or.us/DHSForms/Served/ le2342F.pdf • Shopping centers and malls: Requirements include arranging common area settings to maintain six feet of social distancing; determining maximum occupancy to maintain best social distancing practices; and posting signs to discourage groups from congregating.

For more information about the reopening requirements of shopping centers and malls, visit: https:// sharedsystems.dhsoha.state. or.us/DHSForms/Served/

POSTMASTER: Send address changes to The Chief PO Box 1153, St. Helens, OR 97053

le2342G.pdf • Gyms and fitness centers: Requirements include a maximum gathering limit; social distancing; and sanitation. Additional guidance is forthcoming from the State.

• In-person gatherings: Up to 25 people, travel restrictions still apply “I want to be clear that reopening does not come without risks,” Governor Kate Brown stated in her approval letter. “With every restriction lifted we know transmission of the virus has the potential to increase.

The contact tracing, testing and personal protective equipment requirements that were part of the conditions for reopening will be essential to mitigate the transmission increase.”

The responsibility to adhere to these reopening guidelines will remain with the business owners.

The County urges all local business owners to consider the safety of their customers and their part in the ongoing battle to keep transmission rates low. After 21 days of compliance in Phase I, Columbia County may be allowed to move into Phase II, which will further loosen restrictions.

Moving forward, the Board of Columbia County Commissioners has enlisted the Department of Public Health and Department of Emergency Management to continue to work through the response to COVID-19 and are actively looking towards our community’s recovery from this pandemic.

“Our goal is simple,” Della Graham, Resilience and Community Preparedness Coordinator said.

“We want to ensure that all geographic areas of Columbia County are given a voice and the same opportunities to recover.”

For more information about economic relief and resources, visit https:// www.columbiacountyor.gov/ departments/PublicHealth/ EconomicRelief.

For more information about the State’s reopening plan, visit https://govstatus. egov.com/or-covid-19.

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

Contact Us • Phone: (503) 397-0116 • Fax: (503) 397-4093 • Website: www.thechiefnews.com Editorial Email: chiefnews@countrymedia.net • Advertising Email: atrull@countrymedia.net

Write to Us We want to hear from you and encourage you to write letters to the editor. 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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Send Letters To: The Chief Attn: News Editor PO Box 1153, St. Helens, OR 97051 Email Letters To: chiefnews@countrymedia.net 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.

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, May 15, 2020

•

•O bituaries • •

A5

Tribute to frontline workers

Leanne Holum

Oct. 6, 1981 ~ April 29, 2020 Leanne Marie Holum was welcomed into the world on Oct. 6, 1981 by her parents, Curt and Susan Holum of Clatskanie, Oregon. On April 29, 2020 at the age of 38, she was taken from us by a senseless act of violence.

Leanne was an animal lover and always had a dog by her side. She loved horses and was inspired to join the 4H as a youth. Leanne graduated from Clatskanie High School in 2000 and then soon after, set out on an adventure throughout Oregon and California before settling in Arizona.

Leanne had a huge heart. Her family was very important to her and she treated her friends like family. Her two beautiful girls with Mark Bais, Saiya and Makayla, brought love and pride into her heart as she

loved being their mother.

Leanne was strong, funny, beautiful, loud and obnoxious. She never shied away from voicing her opinion nor from excitement. Just six months before her death she was planning to get a degree in counseling to be able help others.

Her family wants her to

know how much she was loved and how much she will be missed. Her family will ensure that her children grow up knowing how much love Leanne held for them.

We are so sad that this is how her story ends.

Leanne leaves behind both of her parents, Susan Holum of Clatskanie, Oregon and Curt Holum of Arizon; daughters, Saiya and Makayla of Phoenix Arizona; and many aunts, uncles, cousins and friends.

Memorial arrangements have been postponed and will be announced as soon as the world allows. In lieu of flowers please reach out to those around you, lend a helping hand and always be kind, just as Leanne would have wanted.

A celebration of life will be announced at a later time.

Peggy Wallace

Photo courtesy of Oregon Air National Guard

Dec. 27, 1933 ~ May 11, 2020 Peggy Wallace 86, of Rainier, Oregon passed away May 11, 2020 in Rainier.

The flyovers are designed as a salute to Oregonians on the forefront of the COVID-19 pandemic and lift morale during a time of severe health and economic impacts, according to the Oregon Air National Guard.

The Oregon Air National Guard will conduct its second multiple F-15 Eagle flyovers over hospitals and other locations throughout Oregon on Friday, May 15.

The first flyover occurred on Friday, May 8.

The flyover locations include the Portland metro area, Willamette Valley, North Oregon Coast and Central Oregon.

The flyovers are designed as a salute to Oregonians on the forefront of the COVID-19 pandemic and lift morale during a time of severe health and economic impacts, according to the Oregon Air National Guard.

The tribute is scheduled to be conducted by Oregon’s 173rd Fighter Wing, based in Klamath Falls and the 142nd Wing, based in Portland.

“This is a joint effort to demonstrate support and give thanks to healthcare workers, first responders, and other essential workers on the frontline of the COVID-19 response; the goal is to unite all Oregonians during this time,” Oregon Military Department public affairs

The Clatskanie and Rainier Chambers are

meeting via Zoom and we invite our businesses to join.

For more details follow us on Facebook.

Facebook Page: www.facebook.com/ClatskanieChamber Website: www.clatskaniechamber.com Heritages Days Facebook Page: www.facebook.com/clatskanieheritagedays Here is Clatskanie Chamber contact: Info.clatskaniechamber@gmail.com

Facebook Page: www.facebook.com/rainierORchamberofcommerce Website: www.rainierchamberofcommerce.com

Sponsored By The Chief in support of the Chamber of Commerce and small businesses

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.

director Stephen Bomar said.

“This effort also demonstrates the full capabilities of our Oregon National Guard Citizen Soldiers and Airmen. Whether on the ground delivering needed Personal Protective Equipment throughout Oregon or in the skies protecting the Pacific Northwest, the Guard is in this together with Oregonians.”

Anyone living in and around these hospitals should see and hear the jets. People are encouraged to view the flights from the safety of their own homes and practice physical distancing.

“We are honored to pay tribute to everyone who has served on the frontlines during this pandemic,” Commander of the Oregon Air National Guard Brig. General Donna Prigmore said. “This is a small way of showing our gratitude for the big sacrifices that our healthcare workers, emergency responders, and so many others have made. We thank all of you.”

All flyover plans have been coordinated as a part of OPERATION: AMERICAN RESOLVE to salute those at the forefront of the COVID-19 response and will be done in conjunction with regularly scheduled training.

Pilots must perform a minimum number of flight hours to maintain proficiency.

These flyovers will incur no additional cost to taxpayers and are done in lieu of regularly scheduled training.

The Air Force Salutes flyover plan also includes flyovers from the United States Air Force Thunderbirds demonstration team, which are scheduled to fly over the Pacific Northwest in late May. All passes are approximately 1,500 feet above ground level at approximately 400 mph airspeed.

Flights could be canceled or times changed due to inclement weather or operational contingencies.

Anyone who gets video or photos of the F-15s flying overhead is encouraged to post on social media using the hashtags: #AirForceSalutes, #AFFlyover, #FlyoverFriday, #Inthistogether.

About the Pilots Pilots from the 173rd Fighter Wing and the 142nd Wing train for a variety of mission skill sets in order to maintain combat readiness for the defense of the state and nation. Additionally, the 142nd Wing provides around-the-clock Aerospace Control Alert for the defense of the homeland, while the 173rd FW is home to the sole F-15C pilot training facility for the United States Air Force. Both units also respond to state and national emergencies as directed by the Governor of Oregon.

The Oregon Air National Guard has been an integral part of the nation’s air defense since 1941.

Recreational salmon, steelhead fishing The departments of fish and wildlife from Oregon and Washington today set four more days of recreational salmon and steelhead fishing on the Columbia River.

The fisheries will take place Friday, May 15 through Sunday, May 17 and on Wednesday, May 20.

Downstream of Bonneville Dam, the open area is from the Warrior Rock/ Bachelor Island line upstream to Beacon Rock (boat and bank), and bank angling only from Beacon Rock to the Bonneville Dam deadline. The bag limit is two adult salmonids (Chinook, sockeye, or steelhead) per day, but only one may be a Chinook.

Retained Chinook and steelhead must be hatchery fish and all sockeye are considered adults.

Upstream of Bonneville Dam, bank angling is allowed upstream to

the Tower Island powerlines, while both boat and bank angling is open from Tower Island upstream to the Oregon/Washington border. The bag limit is two adult hatchery salmonids (Chinook or steelhead only) per day, but only one may be a Chinook.

Anglers are reminded that retention of adult spring Chinook remains closed downstream of Warrior Rock, but retention of hatchery steelhead, sockeye, and jack Chinook is scheduled to open on May 16 from the Tongue Point/ Rocky Point line upstream to the I-5 Bridge. Shad angling and retention opens throughout the lower Columbia downstream of Bonneville Dam on May 16.

The fishery managers made a plea to anglers to stay close to home, observe social-distancing, and maintain sanitary conditions.

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A6

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Friday, May 15, 2020

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Public Notices

CC20-1224

CC20-1215

NOTICE OF BUDGET COMMITTEE MEETING Rainier Cemetery District MEETING NOTICE A public meeting of the Budget Committee of the Clatskanie Park & Recreation, 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, Oregon. The

meeting will take place on May 21, 2020 at 6:00 p.m.

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 18, 2020 at 365 S Nehalem St., between the hours of 10:00 a.m. and 2:00 p.m. All social distancing rules in place at the time of the meeting will be strictly followed.

CC20-1226

NOTICE OF BUDGET COMMITTEE MEETING A public meeting of the Port of Columbia County Budget Committee, to discuss the budget for the fiscal year July 1, 2020 to June 30, 2021, will be held in the Port of Columbia County Office Boardroom, 100 E Street, Columbia City, Oregon. The meeting will be an electronic Zoom meeting taking place on Wednesday, May 20, 2019 at 8:30 am. https://us02web.

zoom.us/j/88458576466.

Meeting ID: 884 5857 6466 Password: 016909. Call in 1-669-9009128 – same ID & Passcode as above. 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 call in to 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 13, 2020 at the Port Office, 100 E Street, Columbia City, Oregon, between the hours of 8:00 am and 5:00 p.m. The budget document will also be available on our website (on or after May 13, 2020) at www.portofcolumbiacounty. org.

The regular meeting of the Rainier Cemetery District will be held on Wednesday, May 20, 2020, at 5:30pm at the Rainier Cemetery Office, 24952 Alston Rd, Rainier,

OR. (Immediately following the budget committee meeting) Items on the agenda include, but are not limited to: Monthly updates on cemetery operations. ALL

SOCIAL DISTANCING RULES IN PLACE AT THE TIME OF THE MEETING WILL BE STRICTLY FOLLOWED. Janice Carstensen, Board Chairman

CC20-1232

CLATSKANIE PEOPLE’S UTILITY DISTRICT MEETING NOTICE The Clatskanie People’s Utility District Board of Directors has scheduled the next regular Board meeting for Wednesday, May 20, 2020 at 5:30 pm in the community room of the District’s administration building located at 495 E Columbia River Highway, Clatskanie. A Board Workshop will not be held this month. An executive session may be called at the workshop and/or meeting, pursuant to: ORS 192.660

(2) (f) information or records that are exempt by law from public inspection.

AGENDA CLATSKANIE PEOPLE’S UTILITY DISTRICT REGULAR BOARD MEETING on Wednesday, May 20, 2020 at 5:30 P.M. I. PUBLIC COMMENTS II. CONSENT AGENDA · Minutes of Regular Board Meeting, April 15, 2020 · Review payment of bills for April 2020 III. PRESENTATION AND STAFF REPORTS

UPDATE · Presentation: PTP to NT Transmission Conversion Proposal, Arin Guillory Financial Analyst · Staff Reports Update IV. POLICY REVIEW · #109 Public Records Request, #110 Consumer Identity Theft Protections Policy, and #218 Conflict of Interest V. ACTION ITEMS · None VI. DISCUSSION / INFORMATIONAL ITEMS · Board Comments & Calendar VII. EXECUTIVE SESSION VIII. ADJOURNMENT

CC20-1233

NOTICE TO CONTRACTORS Sealed bids for the City of Clatskanie, SW Howard Drive Pavement Overlay, will be received by the City of Clatskanie until 3:00 PM, Wednesday, May 27, 2020.

Bids shall be addressed to Mr. Greg Hinkelman, City Manager, 75 South Nehalem Street, P.O. Box 9, Clatskanie, OR 97016.

At 3:00 PM. Bids will be opened and read aloud in the City Hall Council Chambers, Clatskanie, OR. The project consists generally of selected

areas of asphalt grinding and repair and pavement overlay on SW Howard Drive for the City of Clatskanie, in Columbia County, Oregon.

Plans and specifications are available for review at the City of Clatskanie’s administrative offices, located at 75 South Nehalem Street, Clatskanie, Oregon 97016, telephone number: (503) 728-2622. No bids shall be considered unless the Bidder is registered with the Construction Contractors

Board as required by ORS 671.530. To be considered, bids must follow bidding instructions including but not limited to completion of bidding forms provided, and accompanied by a 10% bid security in favor of the City of Clatskanie. Each bidder must indicate in the space provided on the Bid Proposal whether they are a Resident or Non-Resident Bidder, pursuant to ORS 270.029. The successful bidder will be required to

possess a current Clatskanie City Business License before finalizing the Contract Agreement with the City.

No bid shall be received or considered unless the bid contains a statement by the Bidder that the provisions of ORS 279.350 and Oregon Prevailing Wage Rates will be complied with if the amount of the bid equals or exceeds $50,000. Oregon prevailing wage rates, published by the Oregon Bureau of

Labor and Industries, are available on-line at www. oregon.gov/BOLI. Within two (2) working hours after the date and time of the bid opening, the bidder shall submit to the City of Clatskanie a disclosure of the first tier subcontractors, pursuant to ORS 279C.370.

Failure to submit the first-tier subcontractor list will constitute a nonresponsive bid. If there is no first-tier subcontractors mark “NONE” on the

submittal. The City of Clatskanie reserves the right to reject any or all bids not in compliance with all prescribed bidding procedures and requirements, may reject for good cause any and all bids upon a finding of the agency it is in the public interest to do so, and may waive all informalities. No bidder may withdraw or modify his bid prior to the lapse of thirty (30) days after the bid opening.

CC20-1201

TS No. OR01000008-19-1 APN 24452/ 5N4W23-BC-00900 TO No 8758606 TRUSTEE’S NOTICE OF SALE

Reference is made to that certain Trust Deed made by Richard D Taylor, a single man as Grantor, to Kelly D Sutherland, Attorney at Law as Trustee, in favor of Westar Funding, Inc. as Beneficiary, dated as of October 23, 2007 and recorded October 26, 2007 as Instrument No. 2007-013552 and Extension Agreement October 31, 2016 covering the following described real property situated in the above-mentioned county and state, to wit: APN: 24452/ 5N4W23-BC-00900 TRACTS 15, 16, 19 AND 20, FIRST SUBDIVISION OF PITTSBURGH, IN THE COUNTY OF COLUMBIA AND STATE OF OREGON; EXCEPTING THEREFROM ALL MINERALS AS RESERVED BY INSTRUMENT MARCH 25, 1946 IN BOOK 89, PAGE 78, DEED RECORDS OF COLUMBIA COUNTY, OREGON. Together with all buildings, improvements, and tenements now or hereafter erected on the property, and all heretofore or hereafter vacated alleys

and streets abutting the property, and all easements, rights, appurtenances, rents (subject however to the assignment of rents to lender herein), royalties, mineral, oil and gas rights and profits, water, water rights, and water stock appurtenant to the building, all materials, appliances and goods of every nature whatsoever now or hereafter located in, or on, or used or intended to be used in connection with the property, including, but not limited to, those for the purposes of supplying or distributing heating, cooling, electricity, gas, water, air, and light; and all elevators, and related machinery and equipment, fire prevention and extinguishing apparatus, security and access control apparatus, plumbing, bath tubs, water heaters, water closets, sinks, ranges, stoves, refrigerators, dishwashers, disposals, washers, dryers, awnings, storm windows, storm doors, screens, blinds, shades, curtains and curtain rods, mirrors, cabinets, paneling, rugs, attached floor coverings, furniture,

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pictures, antennas, trees and plants; all of which, including replacements and additions thereto, shall be deemed to be and remain a part of the real property covered by this instrument; and all of the foregoing, together with said property are herein referred to as the “property” Commonly known as: 62419 Nehalem Hwy N, Vernonia, OR 97064 Both the Beneficiary, Dennis L Swanson and Carolyn A Swanson, and the Trustee, Nathan F. Smith, Esq., have elected to sell the said real property to satisfy the obligations secured by said Trust Deed and notice has been recorded pursuant to Section 86.735(3) of Oregon Revised Statutes. The default for which the foreclosure is made is the Grantor’s failure to pay: Delinquent Payments: 11 monthly payment(s) from May 1, 2019 at $666.25 $7,328.75 Total Late Charge(s) $2,403.32 Extension Fee $924.25 Foreclosure Fee/Cost(s) $2,011.00 TOTAL REQUIRED TO REINSTATE: $12,667.32 By

this reason of said default the Beneficiary has declared all obligations secured by said Trust Deed immediately due and payable, said sums being the following, to-wit: The sum of $50,000.00 together with interest thereon at the rate of 15.99000% per annum from May 1, 2019 until paid; plus all accrued late charges thereon; and all Trustee’s fees, foreclosure costs and any sums advanced by the Beneficiary pursuant to the terms of said Trust Deed. Wherefore, notice is hereby given that, the undersigned Trustee will on August 27, 2020 at the hour of 12:00 PM, Standard of Time, as established by Section 187.110, Oregon Revised Statues, at the west entrance to the Columbia County Courthouse, 230 Strand St., Saint Helens, OR 97051 County of Columbia, sell at public auction to the highest bidder for cash the interest in the said described real property which the Grantor had or had power to convey at the time of the execution by him of the said Trust Deed, together

with any interest which the Grantor or his successors in interest acquired after the execution of said Trust Deed, to satisfy the foregoing obligations thereby secured and the costs and expenses of sale, including a reasonable charge by the Trustee. Notice is further given that any person named in Section 86.753 of Oregon Revised Statutes has the right to have the foreclosure proceeding dismissed and the Trust Deed reinstated by payment to the Beneficiary of the entire amount then due (other than such portion of said principal as would not then be due had no default occurred), together with the costs, Trustee’s or attorney’s fees and curing any other default complained of in the Notice of Default by tendering the performance required under the obligation or Trust Deed, at any time prior to five days before the date last set for sale. Without limiting the Trustee’s disclaimer of representations or warranties, Oregon law requires the Trustee to state in this notice that some

residential property sold at a Trustee’s sale may have been used in manufacturing methamphetamines, the chemical components of which are known to be toxic.

Prospective purchasers of residential property should be aware of this potential danger before deciding to place a bid for this property at the Trustee’s sale. In construing this notice, the masculine gender includes the feminine and the neuter, the singular includes plural, the word “Grantor” includes any successor in interest to the Grantor as well as any other persons owing an obligation, the performance of which is secured by said Trust Deed, the words “Trustee” and “Beneficiary” includes their respective successors in interest, if any.

Dated: MARCH 30, 2020 By: Nathan F. Smith, Esq., OSB #120112 c/o Special Default Services, Inc. 17100 Gillette Ave, Irvine, CA 92614 (949) 225-5945Order Number 71605, Pub Dates: 05/08/2020, 05/15/2020, 05/22/2020, 05/29/2020, THE CLATSKANIE CHIEF

www.thechiefnews.com

Friday, May 15, 2020

Public Notices CC20-1225

Clatskanie Grows: corn chatter and root-bound transplants CHIP BUBL Chief Guest Column

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, May 26, 2020 at 4:00 p.m. at

GreenWood Resource’s 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 11th day of May, 2020.

Kathy Haiby, Secretary/ Treasurer, Clatsop #15 Drainage Improvement Company, Inc. Board of Directors

CC20-1223

Clatskanie Park & Recreation District NOTICE OF REGULAR BOARD MEETING The regular meeting of the Clatskanie Park & Recreation District will be held on Thursday, May 21, 2020 at approximately 7:00PM (IMMEDIATELY FOLLOWING THE BUDGET

COMMITTEE MEETING) at 555 SW Bryant St, Clatskanie, OR, Port of Columbia County Offices (the Old Middle School). Items on the agenda include, but are not limited to: General park maintenance

CC20-1230

NOTICE OF CANCELLATION May 16 Cleanup Day & Hazardous Waste Collections Day Cancelled.

Due to the COVID-19 outbreak, the City of Rainier Cleanup Day & Columbia

County Hazardous Waste Collection Event scheduled for May 16, 2020 has been cancelled. If possible, the event will be re-scheduled later this year.

and pool operations. Board Chair, Andrew Mustola. ALL SOCIAL DISTANCING RULES IN PLACE AT THE TIME OF THE MEETING WILL BE STRICTLY FOLLOWED.

The Chief’s Public Notice deadline is Wednesdays by noon. said. “So it’s just one skip.”

The Clatskanie Chamber of Commerce asks residents to spend money normally reserved for event-related purchases on local business.

Enjoy take-out, gift cards, and a safe re-opening.

Clatskanie City Festival

Chief photo

Clatskanie’s annual Heritage Days has been canceled as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic.

FESTIVALS From Page A1

“Due to slowed business in the Clatskanie area and the inability to mingle inside many partnering establishments, it has been extremely difficult to fundraise and finance the 2020 event,” the release stated.

“Raised funds from donations, bark dust sales, and business partnerships will be saved for next year’s 2021 Clatskanie Heritage Days.”

“We’re disappointed but we’re also excited that we are going to be able to continue it, because I have promises from all the entities that we are going to continue next year,” Smiley

The Clatskanie City Festival, which will take place from July 31 to Aug. 2 and will be celebrating its fifth year this year, is unlike many other festivals in the area with an alreadyestablished history.

The festival has never had rides or a ferris wheel, going instead for activities like a cake-walk, lawn mower races, a light parade, a movie in the park, food and craft vendors.

Sherman said most of those events are still going to happen, with modifications that allow for social distancing.

The organizers of the Clatskanie City Festival will be meeting in a week and a half to discuss their

to look at the roots before you buy. This isn’t so practical on larger plants.

the initial fertilizer has been somewhat used up. You did use sufficient fertilizer, either organic or synthetic, in the beginning, didn’t you?

Corralling moles

Corn chatter

Is it possible to fence out moles? My sense is that it is possible but not at all easy.

Dig-ging a three-foot trench and putting tight mesh stainless steel fabric into it won’t stop moles from crawling above ground and past the fence. And leaving a six-inch metal lip would be an accident waiting to happen, unless the lip was tied into a deer fence.

For individual wooden-sided raised beds, it is possible to attach ¼ inch stainless steel netting onto the underside of the frame.

This has helped several gardeners to reduce their mole activity to the paths in between (or far under) the beds. This will also keep voles out as well. I have seen costs of ~$70 for a 48” by 25 foot roll.

Several gardeners have installed tall (10-12 inches high) wooden-sided raised beds on a 10-12 inch deep layer of 1-2 inch crushed rock and felt that it effectively deterred moles.

Best advice: Develop your inner “garden protector” instincts and learn to trap those interesting but vexing rascals. For more information on mole trapping see http://ipm.ucanr. edu/PMG/PESTNOTES/ pn74115.html.

Corn and tomatoes are favorite garden crops in this area. We all get anxious and want to get those plants in the ground, often before the weather really has cooperated.

This

The OSU Extension office is closed to face-to-face public contact but you can still reach us.

Rainier Days

However, the fair is an opportunity for some fundraising to occur, as the upcoming senior class at Rainier Junior/ Senior High School usually makes up to $5,000 through hamburger sales, according to Cole.

“We feel like we’re letting them down,” Cole said. “It wasn’t really a choice that we wanted to make, but we had to.”

The Rainier Days parade is still on, which has always been an activity for Rainier Days. However, it will be much more modified, according to Cole.

Rather than having the route go down A Street, the main street in town, where a big crowd gathers each year, the route will instead go through residential areas, where people can safely observe while social distancing, Cole said. The exact route is yet to be determined.

“We’re looking at some other things as well,” Cole said. “We’re not ready to announce any of that stuff right now.”

Root-bound transplants

CC20-1231

A7

Our unpredictable spring weather is a nightmare for nurseries that grow bedding plants. They have to be ready to provide plants if we get a warm April but also be able to hold them until the weather improves finally in mid-May. Avoid buying bedding plants or woody plants that show signs of wilting. I know one person who won’t by a container with a woody plant if the container feels light. That is a sign that it may have been underwatered. Those plants will be set back and may not perform as expected.

Root-bound plants are a little more complicated. The advice on herbaceous perennials and annuals has been to look at the roots and if they are circling, cut them to force new outward growth.

This is not good advice. Evidence is that annuals flowers and vegetables) and herbaceous perennials will root out into the surrounding soil without being cut. In fact, cutting seems to make the process worse. Remember this applies only to bedding plants, not woody plants.

Woody plants with serious circling larger roots must be unwound or the plant will not aggressively develop a strong root system in the surrounding soil. The circling by itself can lead to root growth that can ultimately strangle the plant. Strategic root cutting may be necessary with these plants. That said, it best not to buy them.

You can pull plants out of one or two gallon containers options, according to Sherman.

“We can probably do the light parade,” Sherman said.

“We can social distance and do that. We’re thinking we can do the music, we can mark where they sit. We haven’t quite said we’re absolutely done.”

There are a few elements of the fair that are unlikely to happen, like having food vendors.

However, Sherman said she thinks they will still be able to serve free food from the food shack, something that usually happens during the festival. The snack shack at the city park usually offers free food like hot dogs, popcorn, nachos and ice cream to festivalgoers.

Events like the lawnmower race, glow-in-thedark rock hunt, 5K race, and cake-walk could all potentially happen while keeping social distancing in place, Sherman said.

For now, the festival organizers are taking a wait-and-see approach.

All of us (faculty and staff) will still be working (mostly out of the office), answering phone calls left on our answering machines, email messages (chip. bubl@oregonstate.edu), writing newspaper columns and newsletters, and working to develop programs that can reach you online.

We are really committed to helping our communities Clatskanie in any way we can, esGrows pecially in our areas of subject matter expertise (farming, gardening, forestry, food, food safety, and nutrition, healthy decisionyear might making, and youth educabe a year to gamble on tion) and any other way we early planting. Many garden can enrich your life and/or soils are ready to be tilled. make you safer in these chalBe-fore planting, add four lenging times. Please do not pounds of actual nitrogen hesitate to contact us. And (organic or synthetic) per please, take all steps neces1000 square feet of garden sary to ensure that you and (that is the equivalent of 40 your loved ones are safe. pounds of a fertilizer where the first number is “10,” like Free online OSU vegetable 10-20-20). gardening class The supersweet corn varieties that are now most • https://workspace.orcommonly grown need very egonstate.edu/course/masterwarm soil at planting. They gardener-series-vegetableare more prone to fungal and gardening insect attack if they sit in cool soils. It may be helpful Free online beginning to till up an area and cover OSU/Food Bank vegetable it with clear or black plastic gardening class (“Seed to for several days to increase Supper”) the temperature. Clear plas• https://www.oregontic will give you more heat foodbank.org/our-work/progain but will also stimulate grams/education/gardening. the weed seeds. Black plastic gives less heat but also Free newsletter knocks out that first flush of weeds if it is kept on there The Oregon State Unifor 8-10 days. You can leave versity Extension office in the clear plastic on until you Columbia County publishes can just see the tips of the a monthly newsletter on corn emerging. Then you gardening and farming topcan cover the planting with a ics (called County Living) row cover to speed seedling writ-ten/edited by yours growth. It will also protect truly. All you need to do the crop from hungry crows. is ask for it and it will be Corn spacing is a perenmailed or emailed to you. nial topic of conversation.

Call 503 397-3462 to be put I see lots of corn that is on the list. Alternatively, jammed too close together to you can find it on the web at produce well. People can’t http://extension.oregonstate. bring themselves to thin edu/columbia/ and click on seedlings. The take-home newsletters. message is that you should end up with a corn plant Many Extension about every 8-10” if you publications available have 30” between rows. If online you have a wider row spacing (say 36”), you may be Are you putting up salsa, able to narrow the “in-row” saving seeds, or thinking spacing down to 6”. But about planting grapes? OSU don’t try to avoid thinhas a large number of its ning by planting less corn. publications available for Insects, diseases, or crows free download. Just go to can knock a lot of plants out https://catalog.extension. and then you have wasted all oregonstate.edu. Click on that precious growing time. publications and start explorPlant enough and then go out ing. and thin.

The Extension Service ofCorn that is thinned can fers its programs and materibe transplanted into some als equally to all people. adjacent rows. Those transplants will mature about 2-3 Contact information for weeks later, just as the first the Extension office. Oregon planting is slowing down.

State University Extension A final note, don’t forget Service – Columbia County. to give your corn a shot of Address: 505 N. Columbia nitrogen when the plants get River Highway St. Helens, up about knee-high. This OR 97051. Phone: 503 397is called side-dressing. It 3462. Email: chip.bubl@ will boost your crop after oregonstate.edu.

Rainier Mayor Jerry Cole, also co-chair of the board that runs Rainier Days in the Park, said the cancellation of the event has been disappointing.

“The last three months the organizers were moving forward as if we were having the event,” Cole said. “Had all the entertainment booked out. But we just can’t move forward. It’s similar to what Clatskanie Heritage Days is going through. We’re not unique in any way. It’s devastating for everybody.”

Rainier Days in the Park is an annual event for Rainier residents and also draws participation from around the area. The festival typically has live entertainment, fireworks, food and craft vendors, as well as traditional festival activities, like a ferris wheel and rides. Now, none of those are going to happen.

The event is usually self-funded, and proceeds made from sponsorships and vendor sales usually go back into funding the fair itself.

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The Chronicle

Friday, May 15, 2020

The Chief

9th Annual

2020 Columbia County

Business Guide Publication dates: Chronicle: June 24, Chief: June 26 Ad Deadline: June 11 This full color, glossy magazine showcases your business and is the premier local source. As a go-to reference to the area’s business community for visitors, newcomers, residents and potential customers.

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

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A9

Fair & Rodeo canceled

Courtesy photo

Chief photo

The Columbia County Fair Board has officially canceled this summers fair and rodeo due to the COVID-19 pandemic and the state’s social distancing orders.

STAFF REPORT chiefnews@countrymedia.net

Columbia County Fair & Rodeo officials have made the final decision. This summers fair and rodeo are officially canceled.

The Chief first reported on May 1, that county fair officials were attempting to decide if the event, which draws thousands to St. Helens each summer, would be held due to the COVID-19 pandemic and the state’s social distancing orders.

In announcing her Phase I Reopening Framework on May 7, Gov. Kate Brown said that large gatherings such as conventions, festivals, and major concerts and live audience sport-

BUSINESSES From Page A1 left, Harris has not hired to replace them.

Harris said even with the cut back in business, customers have really shown up to support the restaurant.

“We’ve been appreciating our customers, they’ve been tipping exponentially more than they normally do,” he said. “We can see a huge increase in tips.”

Harris said he has been taking advantage of the slower business by refurbishing both locations – each site has gotten an

ing events will need to be cancelled at least through September. Restarting events of this size will require a reliable treatment or prevention, like a vaccine, which is many months off.

Further guidance on large events will be provided in the coming months.

Shortly after Brown’s announcement, Oregon State Fair officials canceled that large event that takes place each summer in Salem.

The Columbia County Fair Board announced on its Facebook page its decision to formally cancel this summers local event.

“During Phase I, only gatherings of 25 or less is allowed, and Phase II might only allow up to as many as 100 people,” the post reads.

However, there is still a chance for other events around the fair to continue.

“The Board is actively exploring ideas for smaller events throughout the summer and fall that would allow the community to still enjoy the fairgrounds and offer families fun and exciting activities to enjoy together - albeit in smaller groups to keep in line with the state mandates for responsible social distancing,” the release states.

Rodeo Queen Jessica Lincoln will retain her title until the next queen is crowned.

upgraded parking lot and a fresh coat of paint on the inside. The Fultano’s at Clatskanie is also slated to get an upgraded salad bar with healthier options and refrigerated sections that are easier to sanitize.

All in all, Harris said he is ready to reopen as soon as possible, even if the Clatskanie location might be a bit short-staffed.

“We have put together a playbook.” Harris said. “I call it our Corona playbook.

It’s six or seven pages long of policies we’re putting in place.”

Those policies include, social distancing measures,

sanitizing procedures and still remaining credit-card only with no signatures on cards.

As for revenue lost during the pandemic, Harris has no exact figures, but his general idea is that it has been about a 40 percent loss from the gross.

Making up for lost revenue will not be the primary concern once the restaurant does open back up, Harris said.

“Primarily, the importance I see is moving slowly and making sure we do things right, then doing what we can to make up for lost revenue,” Harris said.

For more information, contact the Columbia County Fair at 503-3974231.

The Oregon State Fair is held at the state fairgrounds in Salem each summer and offers carnival rides, 4-H exhibits and showings as well as a host of other events and displays.

Oregon State Fair canceled 4-H members, crafters, and others across Columbia County will not be attending the Oregon State Fair this summer due to the popular event’s cancellation.

The Oregon State Fair Council confirms the 2020 Oregon State Fair is officially canceled. The decision follows Oregon Governor Kate Brown’s announcement about the state Reopening Oregon framework.

The Fair was originally scheduled to run August 28 through September 7.

Brown underscored large gatherings, including live sporting events with audi-

ences, concerts, festivals, and conventions will not be able to return until there is a reliable treatment or prevention, such as a vaccine. The Oregon Health Authority advised that any large gathering, at least through September, should either be canceled or significantly modified.

“The safety of our fairgoers, exhibitors, competitors, performers, sponsors, vendors, contractors, volunteers and staff has always been — and will always be our top priority,” Director and CEO of the Oregon State Fair & Expo Center Mike Paluszak said. “We are saddened by the news, but support our state leaders in their efforts to keep all Oregonians safe in the wake of COVID-19.”

The Oregon State Fair is a tradition for thousands of families across the region, and the Oregon State Fair Council had hoped to continue that tradition in 2020.

The organization’s leadership is meeting over the next few weeks to see if there are any alternative options to consider in lieu of the original event. Management is also working on a strategy to reopen fairground facilities when appropriate and look forward to welcoming guests back for the 2021 Oregon State Fair, scheduled for August 27 through September 6 of next year.

Colvin’s in Clatskanie owner Kim Rogers said the support of the town is really what has been pulling the restaurant through.

“Last month, we did much better than I ever thought we could have,” Rogers said. “It turned out pretty good.”

Colvin’s sales dropped by 50 percent last month, which Rogers said was not that bad taking into consideration that there was no liquor or beer being sold.

Rogers is also in the process of bringing back the restaurant’s servers.

That has been challenging, Rogers said, because those

former employees were laid off when the pandemic hit and are now collecting unemployment benefits and Colvin’s has reduced hours of operations.

“So a lot of them are refusing to come back,” Rogers said. “We have roughly 10 employees. I have probably seven back to work.

And when we open up, we’re going to need a few more people just because of the restrictions.”

Those restrictions include sanitizing the many surfaces in the restaurant, including normal restaurant items like tables, chairs and condiment baskets, but

also the lottery machines in Colvin’s.

Roger’s said he is spacing the lottery machines to meet the state’ guidelines and Colvin’s will be ready to reopen on Monday, May 17.

Overall, Rogers said he is thankful for the support from the community.

“I want to reiterate the happiness and gratitude I have for the community,” he said. “It’s been really phenomenal.”

STAFF REPORT chiefnews@countrymedia.net

For more information, call the Oregon State Fair at 971701-6573.

Follow this developing story at thechiefnews.com and in the Friday print editions of The Chief.

ALEX TARDIF

County Commissioner

BRANDEE DUDZIC County Commissioner

Position 1

NEIGHBOR • VETERAN • MOTHER

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Tardif!

I believe in healthy communities, affordable housing, family wage jobs and financial sustainability for Columbia County.

I AM RUNNING FOR RE-ELECTION BECAUSE I BELIEVE IN OUR COMMUNITY Since being elected in 2016, I have enjoyed working vigorously and have continuously advocated for transparency and accountability within government.

Re-elect Alex Tardif Your County Commissioner Alex4countycommissioner@gmail.com

RESPONSIBLE • TRANSPARENT• ACCOUNTABLE Paid for by Brandee Dudzic for Columbia County Commissioner

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Friday, May 15, 2020

Life in Clatskanie 2020

A deer enjoys a snack along the path to Clatskanie Middle/High School.

Jeremy C. Ruark / The Chief

Local wildlife on an afternoon walk in Clatskanie.

Jeremy C. Ruark / The Chief

Even though the path to Clatskanie Middle/High School is currently not being used by students due to the COVID-19 pandemic, it is still a favorite spot for local wildlife. While students aren’t able to attend in-person classes, the state’s Distance Learning program is continuing, helping students keep up with their school assignments from home. Send us your Life in Clatskanie photos and we will share them with our readers. Email your Life photos to jruark@countrymedia.net.

Ballots due JEREMY C. RUARK jruark@countrymedia.net

If you haven’t already mailed your May Primary Ballot, election officials say you’ll need to drop off your ballot instead of mailing it to ensure it reaches the county election headquarters by the 8 p.m. May 19 voting deadline.

There are several ballot drop off sites throughout Columbia County, including the Columbia County Courthouse, 230 Strand Street in Street Helens, Scappoose City Hall, 33568 Columbia Ave. Clatskanie Library, 11 Lillich Street, Rainier City Hall, 106 B Street, the Vernonia Public Library, 701 Weed Avenue and the Mist Birkenfeld RFPD, 12525

Highway 202.

The May Primary in Columbia County includes a bond measure to renovate St. Helens High School, a renewal of the Columbia County Jail levy, a five year levy to support the Rainier Cemetery District, a five year replacement levy for the Vernonia Rural Fire Protection District.

Candidate races include County Commissioner Position 1 and Position 3, and Circuit Court Judge District 19 Position 3.

Read more the about the county candidates and issues at the chiefnews.com.

Follow the election results at columbiacountyor. gov/departments/Elections.

Read reaction at thechiefnews.com and in the Friday print editions of The Chief.

COLUMBIA COUNTY NEEDS CHAMPIONS WHO WILL STAND UP FOR

WORKING FAMILIES

That’s why Timber Unity PAC is proud to endorse candidates for the Oregon Legislature and Columbia County Commission who are committed to working to get Oregon back on track.

Now more than ever, we need elected leaders who will bring solutions to create jobs and who will solidly represent their constituents against special interests seeking to shutter our natural resource economy.

CASEY GARRETT

MARGARET MAGRUDER

BRIAN STOUT

COLUMBIA COUNTY COMMISSIONER POSITION 3

COLUMBIA COUNTY COMMISSIONER POSITION 1

STATE REP DISTRICT 31

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BY 8:00PM ON MAY 19TH, YOUR BALLOT MUST BE RECEIVED IN ORDER TO MAKE YOUR VOICE HEARD

VOTE LIKE YOUR JOB DEPENDS ON IT! JOIN TIMBER UNITY IN STANDING UP FOR WORKING FAMILIES IN COLUMBIA COUNTY Paid for by Timber Unity PAC • www.timberunity.com

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