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Who We Are

Memorial Day 2021 INSIDE

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2021

Presented by

The Chronicle & The Chief

$1.50

FRIDAY, MAY 28, 2021

VOL. 130, NO. 3 Serving the Lower Columbia Region since 1891

We are the champions!

CMHS Softball Team takes State 3A Title

Courtesy photo from Sarah Blodgett

The Clatskanie Middle/High School Softball Team with their State Championship trophy.

JEREMY C. RUARK jruark@countrymedia.net

The Clatskanie Middle/High School Softball team has ended an amazing season, with an overall record of 15 wins and one loss.

The team went on to capture the Final Four 3A State Tournament title.

In the following conversation, The Chief reviews the season with head coach Kevin Sprague.

The Chief: What do you believe led to such an amazing season for your team?

Kevin Sprague: This seasons success was built on the same core

principles we have held for the last four years. Make the game simple and be fundamentally sound and consistent. I believe that when you build on those basic skill sets and principles and consistently preach them the kids will eventually come to understand them and you know that has happened when you hear it repeated between them and their

teammates. When this happens they can relax and just play.

I have seen to many good teams trip over themselves trying to make low percentage plays on the ball or on a runner an turn singles into much bigger plays and it can snowball. This is not to say we were perfect, but we were better for longer and more often than

the other teams.

The Chief: Were there moments during this season in which you had to help the team player through a particular struggle, situation, to keep them on track? ­­­­ See CHAMPS Page A8

Pool renovations slowed by sluggish supply chain JEREMY C. RUARK jruark@countrymedia.net

Supply chain delays triggered by the COVID-19 pandemic have slowed the $600,000 renovations at the Clatskanie Pool.

“This is chronically challenging for everything,” Clatskanie City Manager Greg Hinkelman said.

“The supply chain for everything is slow due to the pandemic.”

Hinkelman said essential ele-

ments for the renovation, including a new gutter system, are part of the supplies needed. The original completion date for the pool project was scheduled for Memorial Day. “Our new target date is now July 4at least that is our hope,” Hinkelman said. “And we are hoping the delays will not add to the cost of the overall project.”

Built in 1958, the Clatskanie Pool is 90-feet long, 60-feet wide, and holds approximately 125,000

gallons of water.

The renovations include resurfacing the deck, resurfacing and repainting the pool, replacing of the old tile gutter system with a stainless steel gutter system. The wading pool also will be replaced with a splash pad and crews will investigate multiple pool piping issues including current failures, Jeremy C. Ruark / The Chief

­­­­ See POOL Page A4

The $600,000 city pool renovations began in March after the pool was drained. The pool is 90-feet long, 60-feet wide, and holds approximately 125,000 gallons of water.

Community Garden bursting for summer AURORA BIGGERS chronicle2@countrymedia.net

In Clatskanie, the Farmer’s Market is taking big steps to renovate the community garden. Under the auspices of the Market, former OSU Extension Service Master Gardener Brandon Schilling is using his agricultural knowledge to give Clatskanie Community Garden a chance to truly serve the community.

“I gave the space a complete remodel … removing raised beds, decreasing the square footage of grass, importing wood chips to build soil fertility, importing compost, and utilizing free black plastic from the Aurora Biggers / The Chief

­­­­ See GARDEN Page A4

Who We Are ............. A2

Blotters ..................... A4 Obituaries ................. A4 Letters ....................... A4 Classified Ads .......... A5

Legals .................... A5-6 Crossword ................ A6

Sports ........................ A8

Pink Snapdragon flowers bloom in the Clatskanie Community Garden, located across from the city library on Lillich Street.

Aurora Biggers / The Chief

The community garden is small (50 by 50 feet) but ready to burst with plant life.

10th Annual 2021 Columbia County

Business

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

The Chronicle

The Chief

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

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

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Friday, May 28, 2021

•W ho W e A re • •

OSP: Not just law enforcement

Courtesy photo from OSP

These ducklings are two of the batch rescued by OSP Fish and Wildlife Troopers in Tillamook County.

JEREMY C. RUARK jruark@countrymedia.net

Oregon State Police (OSP) Troopers at the St. Helens office received a strange delivery May 18.

A resident discovered a fledgling Barn Owl that had fallen from its nest and injured its wing. Not knowing who else to take the bird

to, the resident delivered the injured owl to OSP office.

Troopers quickly contacted the Portland Audubon Society office to get the little owl to immediate care and hopefully on to a speedy recovery.

If the Portland Audubon Society team can rehabilitate the owl, they will do everything they can to get it

Courtesy photo from OSP

Courtesy photo from OSP

This injured Barn Owl was discovered by a St. Helens resident and brought to the OSP office in St. Helens.

OSP Sgt. Jim Andrews shows off the captured alligator.

released back into the wild, According to OSP Facebook post.

In Tillamook County, OSP Troopers conducted another animal rescue.

A hand full of baby ducks became orphaned when their mother was struck as it was trying to cross Highway 101 in Tillamook County.

OSP Fish and Wildlife

erinarian received a unusual presentation after Eugene Police officers discovered an alligator during an unrelated investigation.

Eugene Police and OSP Fish and Wildlife Division troopers captured the 4-footlong alligator and brought it to the Oregon Department of Agriculture to be relocated to an authorized educational

Troopers Miller and Reeder were able to wrangle the little ducklings all to safety.

The Wildlife Center of the North Coast was able to take in the ducklings where they will be raised until they are old enough to be released back into the wild.

In Lane County, the Oregon Department of Agriculture’s state vet-

facility.

Read more Who We Are articles at thechronicleonline.com. If you know of someone, an agency or business, or a group, that is making a positive difference in our community and would like to see them featured in Who We Are, email details to jruark@countrymedia.net.

Report shows Oregon’s Child Care ‘deserts’ MOLLY ROSBACH Chief Guest Article

A new report from Oregon State University shows that as of March 2020, all 36 counties in Oregon qualify as child care “deserts” for infants and toddlers — meaning that there are at least three children under the age of 2 for every available child care slot in the county.

Baseline report Researchers say the report, based on data collected prior to COVID-19, will serve as a useful baseline to highlight how the pandemic has exacerbated the challenges facing Oregon families with small children.

“This report confirmed what families understand: There’s not enough child care, period, but there’s really a crisis when it comes to infant and toddler slots,” said Megan Pratt, an assistant professor of practice in OSU’s College of Public Health and Human Sciences and lead author of the report, published this week. Michaella Sektnan at OSU was her co-author.

The report builds on Pratt’s 2019 comprehensive look at Oregon child care, which showed a similar landscape: All 36 counties were child care deserts for the 0-2 age group, while 25 counties were deserts for kids ages 3-5.

The biennial reports are funded via the state’s Early Learning Division as part of the Oregon Child Care Research Partnership with the purpose of informing state policymakers on the current status of Oregon’s child care supply, particularly the dearth of options for infants and toddlers and the role played by publicly funded programs in filling those gaps, especially in rural areas.

By the numbers The new report found that while the state’s total amount of state-licensed child care increased by 588 slots from 2018-2020, and the estimated number of children

under the age of 5 declined by about 13,000 statewide, Oregon’s child care supply remains limited. Twenty-five of Oregon’s 36 counties are also deserts for preschool kids ages 3-5, and for infants and toddlers ages 0-2, half of Oregon’s counties qualify as “extreme” deserts, with, at most, one child care slot for every 10 children in that age group.

The numbers show public investment plays a key role in expanding the child care supply in Oregon. Between 2018 and 2020, increased state funding led to an additional 817 publicly funded child care slots across the state, part of the overall growth.

Publicly funded slots now account for 19% of Oregon’s total child care supply.

“This report highlights why Oregon needs to continue to invest in child care and focus on strategies that build our supply of affordable, high-quality child care and ensure our existing programs are supported,” Oregon’s Early Learning Division Systems Acting Director Alyssa Chatterjee said. “Many families are struggling to access high-quality child care, and we can’t wait to address the issue.”

The report culled data from various sources, including regulatory databases for licensing information on child care providers throughout the state, and Oregon’s Early Learning Division, which administers public programs such as Head Start, Preschool Promise and Baby Promise.

Researchers looked at data from March 2020, right before the pandemic hit, and found a continued decline in the number of small, homebased child care provider slots. This decline has largely driven the overall loss of child care slots, as large child care centers cannot fully make up for the lack of home-based slots.

said, with many families seeking out home settings for more culturally responsive care for their children.

But providers often struggle financially.

“It’s really hard to make it work business-wise, because providers do not make very much money for what they’re doing,” Pratt said. “It’s hard to get new people to come into the field and say ‘I want to be a small, home-based provider.’”

Pratt said the new report is a good jumping-off point for bigger questions and deeper analysis, as the existence of child care slots is only one hurdle many families face.

“Child care slots can exist, but not be accessible for a whole host of reasons.

When other research asks what those barriers are, the primary one is affordability,” she said.

Other barriers to access include a child care center’s hours of operation, which might not align with parents working night or weekend shifts; language and cultural compatibility; and finding care that meets the needs of children with delays or disabilities.

Critical role

Molly Rosbach works at the OSU Department of Marketing and Research.

She may be reached at molly. rosbach@oregonstate.edu.

Home-based providers play a critical role in Oregon’s child care supply, Pratt

What’s next Oregon is working to expand access and availability of child care, with legislation like the Student Success Act directing more funding to early learning, and programs like Preschool Promise, which provide child care and education for kids at or below 200% of the federal poverty level.

“While this report shows we still have a long way to go, I am encouraged that the critical role of child care is receiving more attention than before,” Chatterjee said.

“There’s wide recognition that child care is something we all need to address together.”

10th Annual 2021 Columbia County

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

The Chronicle

The Chief

For space reservation, contact Amy: 503-397-0116 or atrull@countrymedia.net Columbia County’s trusted local news source

Metro Creative Connection / The Chief

The new report found that while the state’s total amount of state-licensed child care increased by 588 slots from 2018-2020, and the estimated number of children under the age of 5 declined by about 13,000 statewide, Oregon’s child care supply remains limited.

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

Location: Columbia County Fairgrounds located at 58892 Saulser Road St. Helens, OR Dates: Wednesdays Time: 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.

Sign up: www.ohsu.edu/COVIDVans

SIGN UP TO GET YOUR TEST AT THIS LOCATION How do I get tested?

- Go to URL to sign up for your timeslot.

- Please carefully follow registration and scheduling instructions.

What else do I need to know?

- This is an outdoor testing event, so please dress for the weather.

- Testing is for those older than 2 months.

- If you tested positive before and do NOT have symptoms, you must wait 90+ days before getting another test.

- COVID vaccine will not be provided at these events.

Friday, May 28, 2021

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www.thechiefnews.com

County’s next steps to move out of High Risk JEREMY C. RUARK jruark@countrymedia.net

As Oregon moves closer to reaching the 70% vaccination rate that will allow COVID-19 restrictions to be lifted, state health officials are monitoring key factors.

The Oregon Health Authority’s (OHA) COVID-19 Weekly Report is one of the main factors under review.

The latest report released Wednesday, May 26, shows decreases in daily cases, hospitalizations and deaths from the previous week.

• OHA reported 3,090 new daily cases of COVID-19 during the week of Monday, May 17, through Sunday, May 23. That represents a 25% decrease from the previous week.

• New COVID-19 related hospitalizations fell to 224, down from 265 last week and the lowest figure in five weeks.

• Reported COVID-19 related deaths fell to 34, down from 57 last week.

• There were 107,233 tests for COVID-19 for the week of May 16 through May 22 — a 4% increase from last week. The percentage of positive tests fell from 6.4% to 5.4%.

• People 70 years of age and older have accounted for 38% of COVID-19 related hospitalizations and 75% of COVID-19 related deaths.

• The COVID-19 Weekly Outbreak Report shows 32 active COVID-19 outbreaks in senior living communities

As of May 12, 18,360 Columbia County residents had received at least one dose of the COVID-19 vaccine.

Paul said there are currently several providers offering vaccination appointments in Columbia County, including primary care offices, schoolbased health centers, pharmacies and fire districts.

and congregate living settings, with three or more confirmed cases and one or more COVID-19 related deaths.

Columbia County’s classification

While Columbia County’s COVID-19 cases have slowly decreased over the past week, the county remains in the state’s High Risk classification.

The High Risk classification includes restrictions on indoor restaurant dining, fitness centers and gyms, indoor theaters, concert halls, museums, faith institutions, funeral homes, and retail stores.

Columbia County Public Health Director Michael Paul told The Chief that for the county to move out of risk classifications and allow restrictions to be lifted, more residents need to be vaccinated.

Under the state’s heath and safety plan to lift the pandemic restrictions, counties must reach 65% of the county population 16 or older with a first vaccine dose and submit a complete plan to the Oregon Health Authority which details how the county will close the equity gaps in its vaccination rates.

Paul said Columbia County Health is finalizing its equity plan and according to data from the OHA, slightly more than 20,000 Columbia County residents have received at least one COVID-19 dose.

“This is almost 50% of the eligible residents who

The unvaccinated

Metro Creative Connection / The Chief

More Columbia County residents need to be vaccinated before the county is allowed to move our of the state’s High Risk classification and see health and safety restrictions lifted.

are age 16 or older,” he said.

“However, the county will not move to low risk this week because the state has set a benchmark of 65%, and the county has not yet submitted a vaccine equity plan. The good news is that our case count continues to decline, based on data for the most recent weekly monitoring period between May 9 and May 22.”

In an interview with The Chief last week, Paul said there are 43,366 residents age 16 or older, according to data provided by Portland State University and 28,000 residents would need to be vaccinated to reach a vaccination rate of 65% of individuals (age 16 or older).

According to Paul, the largest demographics of remaining unvaccinated residents are under age 65.

“They are busier and could be taking care of a household and balancing employment so they need appointments to be accessible and convenient,” he said.

“Younger residents heard a different message about risk over the last year so they may be slower to make an appointment. They may not rush to a vaccination site if they don’t have an underlying health condition.”

Paul said there also are

still residents with health issues or disabilities or who face language barriers, which can make getting inoculated against COVID-19 seem overwhelming.

“They may not have a primary care home, or they may have a transportation barrier or some other barrier to overcome,” he said.

Paul added that the county health department continues to look at data that isn’t associated with a political boundary, including factors such as income, disability status, race and ethnicity.

“I would not deny that there are residents who would say they probably or definitely will not get vaccinated, but I am optimistic about getting 65% of our eligible residents vaccinated,” he said.

For more information about COVID-19 vaccinations, call Columbia County Public Health at 503-3977247.

Next steps Paul said he is reviewing additional vaccination details from the health department’s community partners and once he has developed the county’s required state equity plan it will be reviewed by the Columbia County Commissioners before it is submitted to the state. That could happen next week, according to Paul.

Cash available for local businesses STAFF REPORT chiefnews@countrymedia.net

Business Oregon has opened the final portion of a program to provide grants for small businesses to help with commercial rent and operational costs in the face of the COVID-19 pandemic.

The Oregon Legislative Emergency Board allocated approximately $100 million for the program to help small businesses impacted by the pandemic and the restrictions it necessitated. Following two rounds of distribution of Commercial Rent Relief assistance grants, approximately $28 million remains to be distributed in this final round through the Operational Cost Assistance Grant.

The Operational Cost Assistance Grant is designed for businesses with 100 or fewer employees in industries that were particularly affected by the pandemic, including those that: • Offer the consumption of food and or drink on premises.

• Provide specified indoor physical exercise, recreational or family entertainment.

• Provide specified personal services.

Restaurants, bars, gyms, brewpubs, theaters, bowling centers, and salons are some of the more common examples of eligible businesses. Full details of the program, including eligible industries, is available on Business Oregon’s website and in application materials.

Applicants must have faced financial hardship due to the COVID-19 pandemic in

Metro Creative Connection / The Chief

The Oregon Legislative Emergency Board allocated approximately $100 million for the program to help small businesses impacted by the pandemic and the restrictions it necessitated.

Oregon.

Applications for the Operational Cost Assistance Grant will be accepted from May 26 through June 6.

The application process is not first-come, first-served.

Awards will be selected after a random lottery process of all complete and eligible applications received. Applicants are encouraged to take time with the application form to make sure all information is correct.

Missing or incorrect information, particularly simple contact information such as email and phone numbers delays processing significantly.

Businesses that previously received assistance grants through the State of Oregon Commercial Rent Relief Program for the same location are eligible to receive this new grant, as long as the award amount through the Commercial Rent Relief Program was less than $100,000. Total combined awards from either program will not exceed $100,000 for a single applicant.

The first two rounds of

the Commercial Rent Relief Grant has processed payments to help more than 2,400 small businesses throughout Oregon.

There are still some applicants that have either not responded to follow-up communications from Business Oregon, or that provided incomplete or incorrect information. Applicants that have not heard from Business Oregon are encouraged to contact Business Oregon via email or phone at 833-6040880.

This is the seventh COVID-specific program Business Oregon has implemented to help businesses navigate the impacts of the pandemic. One of those programs — the emergency small business grant — helped about 7,400 small businesses with $43 million in grants to help offset revenue impacts from COVID-19.

More program information, eligibility details and the application link are available on Business Oregon’s website, www.oregon4biz.com, or call 503-986-0123.

Columbia County’s trusted local news source

www.thechiefnews.com

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Friday, May 28, 2021

•B lotter • •

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.

For specific details about cases listed, contact the appropriate law enforcement agency.

Rainier Police May 2 • Officers responded to an alarm at a business. The premises was found to be secure.

May 3 • An officer was called to a report of a disturbance. A mother and her son were having a heated argument in their car.

The parties were separated and peace was restored.

May 4 • A juvenile was reported as a runaway. The child was located and returned to their guardian.

May 5 • Some booze bandits stole several bottles of sacramental wine from a church. It is suspected that the thieves were disappointed when they discovered they did not have alcohol, but grape juice instead.

May 6 • $30 was taken from a cash drawer at a local business. The case is pending investigation.

May 7 • A package was turned in as found property. The owner was located and the property returned.

May 8 • A pocketknife was turned in as found property.

May 11 • An officer responded to a two-vehicle, non-injury motor vehicle crash on the bridge. No citations were issued.

May 13 • A black bag with miscellaneous items was turned in as found property.

May 16 • A motorist hit a vehicle parked on West A Street. The vehicle was later identified, but the driver remains unknown.

Oregon Sate Police May 19 • At about 9:30 a.m. Oregon State Police received a driving complaint about a vehicle eastbound on Highway 30 from milepost 86 unable to maintain its lane or speed. At about 9:49 a.m. OSP located the vehicle in the West Port Mini Mart parking lot. The vehicle was stopped eastbound on Highway 30 near milepost 67 for traffic violations.

The driver displayed signs of drug use and impairment upon contact. There was also drug paraphernalia in plain sight. The driver submitted to standard field sobriety tests and was impaired to a noticeable and perceptible degree. The driver also had extraditable warrant out of Washington State Department of Corrections. The driver invoked his rights. A search warrant was authored and obtained. Vena Care NW phlebotomist arrived at the jail. Blood was not able to be obtained but urine was obtained.

Vehicle was towed by Grumpy’s Towing.

May 20 • At about 9:51 a.m. Oregon State Police assisted a Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife Officer by establishing residency status of a sportsman who is suspected of false application of past hunting and fishing licenses in Washington.

The trooper spoke to the suspect by phone and verified that the suspect moved from Washington to Oregon in 2018.

May 21 • At about 11:45 a.m. Oregon State Police received a driving complaint about a vehicle unable to maintain its lane and hitting a highway marker westbound on Highway 30 from milepost 59. The vehicle stopped at Clatskanie Market. OSP located the vehicle and after it left the market, a trooper stopped the vehicle for traffic violations.

The driver displayed signs of controlled substance impairment upon contact. The driver consented to standard field sobriety tests and was arrested. The passenger was taken into custody on an outstanding warrant for his arrest. Both individuals were transported to the Columbia County Jail.

May 22 • At about 7:20 p.m. OSP Fish and Wildlife troopers were conducting a sting at the Gilbert River on Sauvie Island attempting to identify sturgeon poachers. As one of the troopers was watching the end of the road hole, he watched a man reel in a small sturgeon, hand the

Aurora Biggers / The Chief

Jerusalem artichoke blooms alongside pink snapdragons.

GARDEN

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local lumber yard to kill the grass and weed seeds in the top inches of soil,” Schilling said. “This garden is going to be a no-till, no-fertilizer space with demonstrations on ‘season extension,’ using low-tunnels and ‘white thread weeding.’”

Unique gardening White thread weeding, he said, is a unique gardening technique (one which is on an upward trend toward “hot gardening tips”) that eliminates weeds and “turns weeding into Zen sand garden raking.”

At the core of the garden is not only beautification for the community but also an opportunity for Clatskanie residents to get a master class in gardening, said Schilling.

Community members are welcome to join him in the garden every day, once a month, or whenever they feel inclined.

Schilling joined the Farmer’s Market’s board this year and volunteered to take on managing the community garden—putting to use the skills he also gained while being mentored by the at-one-time World Organic Farm Consultant for the United Nations at

Southern Oregon University. “[A]nyone who shows up [to the garden] will get a university-level educational opportunity to understand how small scale farmers are grossing up to $100,000 and acre … it’s real, it’s chemical free, and it’s all possible if you simply pay attention to nature’s cycles,” he added.

He volunteers on most days in the garden, often alongside his girlfriend Jasmine Lillich and various Farmer’s Market and community members.

Personal goal

“Though the garden is ripe with nourishing experiences, it also sounds like it tends to be a lot of extra work to fit into already busy lives. Part of my goal is to show how it can be less of a physical/ time commitment,” Schilling said.

The garden, which has been under the purview of different board members for many years, is a zero-budget project for the Market. “We all sort of all pitch in as we can with the hopes that fundraising will go well this year,” he explained. “It’s a lot of upfront investment, but will be very worth it.”

And his enthusiasm for the garden and the earth shows—“It’s healthier for us humans and for the planet.

Putting your hands in clean, chemical-free soil is one of the Columbia County’s trusted local news source

rod to his girlfriend, and then proceeded down the bank to where the fish was and shot it a couple times with a BB gun. The man then had his girlfriend take some photos of him with the sturgeon and then put a rope on it and hid it in the brush. Another trooper then contacted the couple and was able to get the man to admit what he had done. The 27-inch sturgeon was seized and the man was issued a criminal citation for take/possession of white sturgeon and the woman was cited for aiding in a wildlife offense • At about 8:35 p.m. OSP troopers conducted a traffic stop on a white RV for a lighting violation.

The driver had an outstanding warrant out of Linn County. The driver was cited and released with a court date to appear.

May 24 • At approximately 8:26 OSP troopers responded to a multivehicle non-injury traffic crash on Highway 30 near milepost 17.5. Troopers found that an unknown older two-tone Ford truck had run another vehicle off the roadway and fled the scene.

The other vehicle struck a tree and the driver had minor injuries.

The vehicle was later removed by the owner.

May 26 • At about 9:26 a.m. Oregon State Police responded to a trespassing complaint by Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife in the Pulinski Wildlife area. A male hiker was camping in a restricted area and was contacted by a trooper. The male advised he was hiking to Mt. Hood and camping at different spots along the way. The male was verbally warned for trespassing on both wildlife property and accessing the area via railroad property.

The subject was very cooperative and left the area.

• At about 2:25 p.m. Oregon State Police received information on a road-rage / disturbance in the area of Highway 30 near milepost 50. A driver operating a black Dodge pick-up had stopped, blocking Highway 30 eastbound and engaged in a physical confrontation with the victim before leaving the scene.

A trooper located the suspect vehicle on Highway 30 at milepost 30 and conducted a traffic stop.

During the stop, probable cause was established for disorderly conduct II and harassment. The driver was taken into custody on the charges and transported to the Columbia County Jail. The vehicle was towed by Drakes Towing. The case is still under investigation for additional charges of reckless driving and reckless endangering. best things we can do to boost our immune system. [N]ot to mention it promotes oxytocin production (the “feel-good”. hormone)...and we could all use a bit extra oxytocin these days.”

Nestled in the small 50 by 50 foot garden, visitors can find blooming pink snapdragons alongside slowly ripening Rabbiteye blueberries, Irish potato gems trapped under layers of soil, bursting arugula, and Jerusalem artichoke thistle. Soon raspberries, pumpkins, tomatoes, strawberries, thyme, and borage will erupt from the earth in time for peak summer and fall enjoyment. Along the edge, bright starflowers and tansy dot the garden (weeds which are “welcome in the garden because everything can serve a purpose,” said Schilling) and bare rows of untapped soil await Schilling’s next project.

“The ultimate goal is to have the garden be a container for leftover plant starts that our local farmers have,” Schilling said. “Essentially everything will be by donations, so it tends to be a little bit of everything.”

With the garden, comes a new mode for local food, according to Schilling. “The future of food is local, clean, and life-giving, not life-depleting (like most home gardeners will tell you) … growing food can be a side hobby that helps cut living expenses, increases your health (because the food is fresh and picked when ripe), and promotes friendship, community, and well-being.”

The Clatskanie Community Garden is located on Lillich Street adjacent to Copes Park and across the street from the city library.

For more information, contact Schilling at brand. schilling@gmail.com or call 541-613-4200.

Weekly Online Poll

Last Week’s Results

What are your summer vacation plans?

Should businesses require unmasked customers to show proof of COVID-19 vaccinations before entering?

Staycation enjoying Columbia County Visiting the coast, Central Oregon and/or the mountains

40% Yes

Out of state travel

60% No

Vote online at thechiefnews.com •

•V oices

Votes need to be applauded The voters in the Rainier/ Clatskanie Cemetery District need to be applauded and congratulated for recognizing the importance of passing the recent operational and maintenance levy for the 12 cemeteries in the District.

In fact, it was crucial.

Now, after the fourth attempt, the District can move forward with the small additional funding to address needed repairs, provide adequate staffing for routine functions, replace old equipment, etc.

This writer wishes to recognize cousin, Carol

•

of the

C ommunity • •

Girt – Warren, who mailed to us an initial contribution for the levy and kick started the work of several others in publicizing the District’s request. Upon request, a number of local residents responded with timely and necessary donations.

When placing the roadside signs before the election, my wife and I were met with enthusiasm and supportive property owners. One in particular individual in Goble placed the sign in a prominent location and added two small American flags on the top corner of the sign. What a pleasant surprise and meaningful gesture.

Again, thanks for supporting the staff and volun-

teers in the Rainier/Clatskanie Cemetery District.

Paul and Judy Nys Rainier

Way to go seniors!

Congratulations to all five Clatskanie Middle/High School Track and Field seniors that placed at State.

Blake Brockway, pole vault, Cedric Heath discus, Josh Quevido, long jump and discus, Lilly Boothe, pole vault, Natalie Katon, shot put and javelin.

Jim Morgan Clatskanie

•O bituaries • • Maynard James Houle Dec. 1, 1952 ~ May 16, 2021

Maynard James Houle, lifelong resident of Clatskanie, passed away May 16, 2021 at Hospice in Longview, Washington with his sons by his side.

Maynard was born in North Dakota to Florence Houle and was proud of his Chippewa Heritage. They later moved to Oregon and lived in Clatskanie where he was raised by mom and stepfather Bill Kola.

He attended CHS and was involved in wrestling and

graduated in 1971. He was deployed in 1971 where he served in the Army as an Armorer/Unit Supply Specialist and received an honorable discharge.

Maynard worked various jobs, including farm labor and masonry. In 1980 he began working in the gas and oil exploration field until he retired several years ago.

He enjoyed being with friends and played in the local pool league for many years.

On Dec. 6, 1987, he married Tammy Bernash and together they raised Tony Bernash and had three sons, Kenny, Randy and Michael.

He is survived by all; brother Jerry; and sister Rosemary.

He was preceded in death by his mother Florence; stepfather Bill; and half-brother Roy Osbourne.

A graveside service with Honor Guard will be held at 2:30 p.m. on May 28, 2021 at Murray Hill Cemetery in Clatskanie, Oregon.

Cynde Hodges

June 12, 1956 ~ May 18, 2021 Cynde Hodges 64, of Clatskanie, Oregon, passed away in Longview, Washington on May 18, 2021.

POOL

From Page A1 potential failures and existing leaks.

The Clatskanie Pool draws thousands each summer for community and family swims, swimming lessons, aerobics, senior

exercising, synchronized swim team performances and other programs. The pool also offers full and part time employment opportunities and training for student lifeguards.

Following a limited summer season due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the pool closed in September 2020.

The cost of renovations are

to be paid for through the city’s Scout Lake Funds, a special timber revenue collection set aside by the city.

The Clatskanie Pool is located at 346 N.E. 5th Street in Clatskanie.

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

The Chief

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

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

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

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Friday, May 28, 2021

A5

Marketplace

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Listings are updated daily at www.thechiefnews.com 150

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Paul’s Tree Service Inc. No bush too small, no tree to tall- Call Paul! Specialized in danger trees, take downs, storm clean-up.

Time to prune- pruning Lace Leafed Maples & ornamental shrubberies, chipping, senior or veterans discount, free estimates.

CCB# 217173 Lic., Bonded & Insured.

503-440-0723 or 503-543-8274

PORT OF COLUMBIA COUNTY The Port is hiring!

Opportunities include Administrative Assistant, Executive Assistant and Public Facilities Representative: a fun outdoor customer service and light maintenance seasonal part time position.

Check our website for up-to-date information on job openings at the Port. www.portofc o l u m b i a c o u n t y. org/jobs.

ASPHALT PAVING

Storage

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Visa/MC/Amex

Public Notices PROTECTING YOUR RIGHT TO KNOW

CC21-1445

TS No. OR01000008-19-2 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, 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: Tax Account Number: 24452 Property ID# 5N4W23-C-00900 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: 1. Payoff- Maturity Date January 1, 2020 Principal Balance $50,000.00 Accrued Interest $24,760.27 Unpaid & Accrued Late Charges $2,835.05 Unpaid Charges $38,761.95 Foreclosure Fee/ Cost(s) $6,174.84 TOTAL REQUIRED TO PAYOFF : $122,532.11 By this reason of said default the Beneficiary

CC21-1451 FORM LB-1

NOTICE OF BUDGET HEARING

Contact: Joe Kaczenski

Telephone: (503)755-2710

FINANCIAL SUMMARY - RESOURCES TOTAL OF ALL FUNDS Actual Amount 2019-2020 659,148.71 Beginning Fund Balance/Net Working Capital 80,391.45 Fees, Licenses, Permits, Fines, Assessments & Other Service Charges Federal, State & all Other Grants, Gifts, Allocations & Donations 82,159.15 Revenue from Bonds and Other Debt 0.00 Interfund Transfers / Internal Service Reimbursements 50,000.00 All Other Resources Except Current Year Property Taxes 58,109.96 Current Year Property Taxes Estimated to be Received 470,647.24 Total Resources 1,400,456.51

Email: Joek@mistbirkenfeldrfpd.org Adopted Budget This Year 2020-2021 972,645 44,600 63,000 0 150,000 38,500 499,000 1,767,745

FINANCIAL SUMMARY - REQUIREMENTS BY OBJECT CLASSIFICATION Personnel Services 462,663.32 Materials and Services 162,173.57 Capital Outlay 124,416.36 Debt Service 0.00 Interfund Transfers 50,000.00 Contingencies 184,695.00 Special Payments 0.00 Unappropriated Ending Balance and Reserved for Future Expenditure 4,000.00 Total Requirements 987,948.25

Approved Budget Next Year 2021-2022 703,988 47,600 65,000 0 0 33,500 559,389 1,409,477

591,000 211,050 627,000 0 150,000 184,695 0 4,000 1,767,745

609,740 227,850 431,248 0 0 136,639 0 4,000 1,409,477

FINANCIAL SUMMARY - REQUIREMENTS AND FULL-TIME EQUIVALENT EMPLOYEES (FTE) BY ORGANIZATIONAL UNIT OR PROGRAM * Name of Organizational Unit or Program FTE for that unit or program Name Fire Service 350,754 460,000 FTE 4 4.95 5.00 Name FTE Not Allocated to Organizational Unit or Program FTE Total Requirements 350,754 460,000 4.95 5 Total FTE

479,000 4

479,000 4

STATEMENT OF CHANGES IN ACTIVITIES and SOURCES OF FINANCING * Funding was used in 20/21 for equipment & apparatus upgrades. Money was removed from contingency, by resolution, to fund COVID-19 vaccination clinics and to pay for assessment on property owned at Fishhawk Reserve & Community.

Permanent Rate Levy (rate limit $2.0875 per $1,000) Local Option Levy Levy For General Obligation Bonds

PROPERTY TAX LEVIES Rate or Amount Imposed 2019-2020 2.0875 0 0

Rate or Amount Imposed This Year 2020-2021 2.0875 0 0

Rate or Amount Approved Next Year 202021-2022 2.0875 0 0

STATEMENT OF INDEBTEDNESS Estimated Debt Outstanding Estimated Debt Authorized, But Not Incurred on July 1 on July 1. $0 $0 General Obligation Bonds $0 $0 Other Bonds $0 $0 Other Borrowings Total $0 $0 * If more space is needed to complete any section of this form, insert lines (rows) on this sheet. You may delete blank lines.

150-504-073-2 (Rev. 11-18)

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 manufactur-

ing 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 April 22, 2021: By: Nathan F. Smith, Esq., OSB #120112 Successor Trustee Malcolm & Cisneros, A Law Corporation Attention: Nathan F. Smith, Esq., OSB #120112 c/o Special Default Services, Inc. 17100 Gillette Ave, Irvine, CA 92614 (949) 225-5945 Order Number 74648, Pub Dates: 5/14/2021, 5/21/2021, 5/28/2021, 6/4/2021, THE CLATSKANIE CHIEF

CC21-1458

A public meeting of the Board of Directors will be held on June 15, 2021 at 7 pm at the the Mist-Birkenfeld RFPD Main Station located at 12525 Hwy 202, Mist, OR 97016 or call1-415-762-9988 Passcode: 289020. The purpose of this meeting is to discuss the budget for the fiscal year beginning July 1, 2021 as approved by the Mist-Birkenfeld Rural Fire Protection District Budget Committee. A summary of the budget is presented below. A copy of the budget may be inspected or obtained at Main Station, between the hours of 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. or online at https://www.mistbirkenfeldrfpd.org/board-members. This budget is for an annual budget period. This budget was prepared on a basis of accounting that is the same as the preceding year.

LONG TERM DEBT

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 September 08, 2021 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

NOTICE OF PUBLIC SALE Notice of Public Sale on June 18th at 9am of Contents of Storage Unit# 24 of Diane Benson located at Quincy Storage LLC, located at 78390 Quincy Mayger Rd,

Clatskanie, Oregon. If owner of contents does not pay in full by 9am on June 8th contents of unit will be sold at Public Sale according to ORS 87.689 Notice of Fore-

closure and Sale. Please note we reserve the right to refuse any or all offers. This sale is Cash only. You must register prior to sale to take part in sale of unit contents.

CC21-1467

NOTICE OF CITY COUNCIL MEETING The Clatskanie City Council will meet on Wednesday, June 2nd, 2021 at 7:00 p.m. in the City Council Chambers, 75 South Nehalem St. (Clatskanie Cultural Center, 2nd floor). Agenda items include, but are not limited to: approval of the min-

utes of the May 5th, 2021 regular meeting; a presentation from Hudson Garbage; Public Hearing on a resolution to loan money to the General Fund; a resolution extending workers compensation to volunteers; a resolution authorizing funds to be used in the financial

management of the City; a Public Hearing on receiving State Shared Revenue; and a resolution adopting the 2020-2021 fiscal year budget, making appropriations and imposing the City Tax. An updated agenda will be available at City Hall by May 28, 2021.

CC21-1464

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE STATE OF OREGON FOR THE COUNTY OF COLUMBIA Probate Department In the Matter of the Estate of JAMES EDWARD ROBINSON, Deceased. No. 21PB03913 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 May 28, 2021. Cory P. Robinson, Personal Representative.

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

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Public Notices

CC21-1463

CC21-1462

CC21-1459

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE STATE OF OREGON FOR THE COUNTY OF COLUMBIA Probate Department In the Matter of the Estate of PATRICK JOHN GUERRICAGOITIA, Deceased.

No. 21PB00796 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 resent 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 May 21, 2021.

Darcy Rae Guerricagoitia, Personal Representative.

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

CC21-1465

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE STATE OF OREGON FOR THE COUNTY OF COLUMBIA Probate Department In the Matter of the Estate of RICHARD EARL ROBERTSON, Deceased. Case No. 21PB03379 NOTICE TO INTERESETED

PERSONS NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the undersigned has been appointed personal representative. All persons having claims against the estate are

required to present them, with vouchers attached, to the undersigned personal representative at Roberta M. Greene, 77484 Erickson Dike Road, Clatskanie,

OR 97016, within four months after the date of first publication of this notice, 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 lawyer for the personal representative, John

P. Salisbury, 560 NE F. St., Suite A, No. 251, Grants Pass, OR 97526. Dated and first published on May 28, 2021. Roberta M. Greene, Personal Representative.

Public Notice deadline is Wednesdays by noon. Late submissions may not make it into the paper.

•

•C rossword P uzzle • • STATEPOINT CROSSWORD THEME: 1970s LYRICS ACROSS

1. *Carole King: “But you’re ____ ____ away” 6. “I Thee ____” 9. Ring practice 13. Hacienda brick 14. *Billy Joel: “I love you just the way you ____” 15. What speakers do 16. Leg of lamb 17. Styling goo 18. Spooky 19. *Rod Stewart: “Oh, Maggie, I couldn’t have tried ____ ____” 21. *Stevie Wonder: “Very superstitious, writing’s on ____ ____” 23. Type of constrictor 24. Can of worms 25. *”____ Cola, what a beautiful drink” 28. Capital of Peru 30. *Carly Simon: “I had some dreams, they were ____ in my coffee” 35. Bad luck precursor 37. Swing seat, possibly 39. Macaroni shape 40. Capital on the Baltic Sea 41. Figure with vertex and rays 43. Venetian magistrate 44. Not fitting 46. Sealed with a handshake 47. Wise man 48. Annotator and commentator 50. Facts and figures 52. Bambino

53. Chinese monetary unit 55. International Labor Organization 57. *The Knack: “M M M My ____” 61. *Sister Sledge: “We are family, get up everybody ____ ____” 65. Last European colony in China 66. Pastrami’s partner 68. Sheik’s bevy 69. Movie premiere, e.g.

70. Gunk 71. Ancient assembly area 72. Used to be wild?

73. Attila, e.g.

74. Part of mortise joint

DOWN

1. Long story 2. War god in Norse mythology 3. Same as fogey 4. J. Robert Oppenheimer’s project 5. Reorganize or modify 6. $7.25/hour, e.g.

7. Old fashioned ‘before’ 8. Nile’s mouth 9. Boatload 10. What paralegal and parachute have in common 11. Seed covering 12. Angler’s spool 15. Punch buggy car 20. Indian cuisine yogurt staple 22. Drunkard’s sound?

24. Enter uninvited (2 words)

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

Columbia County’s trusted local news source

25. *Bruce Springsteen: “Tramps like us, baby we were born ____ ____” 26. ____ acid 27. “And Seth.... ____ Enos” 29. *Eric Clapton: “Darling, won’t you ease my worried ____” 31. Oldsmobile founder 32. Lusitania’s destroyer 33. Grown-up pupper, in social media 34. *ABBA: “Dancing queen, young and ____, only seventeen” 36. Back of the neck 38. Dashing style 42. Spritelike 45. Test (2 words) 49. *Terry Jacks: “We had seasons in the ____” 51. One tritely familiar 54. Frustration, in print 56. Missouri River tributary 57. Old World duck 58. *Creedence Clearwater Revival: “____ you ever seen the rain?”

59. They’re hidden up a sleeve?

60. Goes with rave 61. Eon, alt. sp.

62. *Black Sabbath: “I am ____ man” 63. Infamous Roman emperor 64. J. Edgar Hoover’s man 67. *Queen: “Scaramouch, Scaramouch, will ___ do the Fandango”

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Friday, May 28, 2021

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$33 million in cocaine seized STAFF REPORT chiefnews@countrymedia.net

Chief Photo

The fence at Woodbine Cemetery in Rainier has been hit several times by speeding vehicles. The repairs needed are part of the expenses facing the Rainier Cemetery District.

Cemetery District gains needed funding JEREMY C. RUARK jruark@countrymedia.net

You’ll likely see repairs and cleanup at area cemeteries in the weeks and months ahead.

The needed work follows voter approved of a five-year local option tax for operations of the Rainier Cemetery District, which operates 13 area cemeteries.

The permanent tax rate for the district was set at $0.07 per $1,000 of assessed property value back in the 1950s and has not been raised since, despite three recent attempts by the district to do so. In the past five years the district has proposed three separate measures to increase funding but voters in the district have not approved any of them. The last effort failed in the Nov. 3 election. It asked for a $0.05 per $1,000 assessed property value increase.

Approximately half of the district’s budget is from property tax funds, around $67,000 a year. The other half is generated from sales and service income.

But during the May 18 Special District Election, voters had a change of heart and approved the latest funding measure.

In a statement following the election, the Rainier Cemetery District Board issued its appreciation.

“The Rainier Cemetery District wants to extend a very warm thank you to the 1,156 voters that said yes to the request for a five year, tax levy,” the statement reads.

“We also need to thank all of the community members that live outside the district boundaries (and therefore cannot vote for the levy) who helped spread the word of the

importance of this additional funding. Your efforts are so appreciated.”

According to the District statement, five cents per $1,000 of property value was a very small increase considering the increases over the past 100 years in all the costs of maintaining 37 acres of cemetery property.

“And the district boundaries have never been changed in that time to include the thousands of additional residents now living in the surrounding area,” the statement reads.

The statement said that least half of the occupied graves were bought 100+ years ago. A plot of eight graves could be purchased for $25 at that time. Obviously, the District statement declared, that price wasn’t going to take care of the graves, so a cemetery district was created to tax citizens for that expense. Those eight graves have been maintained for the past 100 years on the tax income from the voters living within the district boundaries.

District officials said many necessary projects have been delayed for years due to the lack of additional funding, including new equipment, repair and improvements to cemetery property, much of which has been damaged by the public, new signage, and additional help for more maintenance of all cemeteries.

“It was hard losing our sexton, but if one reviews the district’s financial information, which is always available on the district website, it is clear we could no longer afford the expense of a full time employee,” the District statement reads. “That will not change.”

In an effort to move forward, the Rainer Cemetery District plans to have two part time employees, one for the inside work and one for the outside work. District officials said it was not possible for the sexton to perform all the duties required alone, particularly during mowing season, which generated public criticism of the care of the cemeteries.

The Rainier Cemetery District conducts board meetings on the third Monday each month. The public is invited to join the meetings.

The meetings are conducted at the District office at 24952 Alston Road in Rainier.

Rainier Cemetery District • Hundson at Larson Rd. Rainier • Green Mountain at Larson Rd. Rainier • Neer City at Terry Rd. Near Goble • Kobel at Whitney Rd. Near Goble • Knights of Pythias (Rainer Cemetery) at Neer City Rd. Rainier • Apiary at Fern Hill Rd. Rainier • Murray Hill at Hall Rd. Clatskanie • Maplewood at Conyers St. Clatskanie • Cedar Hill (Bryant) at Wood Lane Clatskanie • Mayger-Downing at Quincy-Mayger Rd. Mayger • Stewart Creek at Shepard Rd. Quincy • A Place To Lay Your Pets To Rest at Larson Rd.Rainier

Oregon job gains, losses ment grew by 2,200 in April, following monthly gains averaging 14,000 in the prior three months. Monthly Oregon’s unemployment gains were concentrated in rate remained at 6.0% in ETERSEN LARKE LLC ETERSEN LARKE government (+2,300LLC jobs) April, the same as in March. and leisure and hospitality A t t o r n e y s A t t o r n e y s The rate declined slightly (+2,000). Monthly declines in January, February, and (503) 556-4120 (503) 556-4120 March before holding steady were largest in manufacturing (-900 jobs), transporin April, according to the tation, warehousing, and Oregon Employment DepartColumbia County’s County’s Premier Columbia Premier utilities (-800), and retail ment. trade (-800).

Personal Injury Attorneys Attorneys Personal Throughout the middle Injury April, nonLi icceennse sedd in in OOrreego gonn In Waash shin inOregon’s gtonn && W gto and end of 2020, LOregon’s farm payroll employment unemployment rate dropped totaled 1,855,600, a drop of sharply, and is now down 117,400 jobs, or 6% from considerably from its recent the pre-recession peak in high point of 13.2% in April February 2020. Oregon’s 2020. The U.S. unemployemployment dropped to a ment rate rose to 6.1% in low of 1,687,500 by April April, from 6.0% in March.

2020. Since then, Oregon “Although Oregon’s has recovered 168,100 jobs, unemploymentETERSEN rate hit a or 59% of the jobs lost ETERSEN LARKE LLC LARKE LLC stand-still in April, underlybetween February and April AA tt tt oo rr2020. nn ee yy ss ing labor force dynamics continue shifting,” Oregon Employment totals for (503) 556-4120 (503) Employment Economist Gail556-4120 recent months were revised Krumenauer said. “April upward, indicating somemarked the first month since Injury Accidents •Personal Injury •Wrongful Death what higher jobs totals in Accidents •Personal •Wrongful Death the pandemic recession Oregon in late 2020 and started that those experiencearly this year.

No Fee Fee Until Recovery ing permanent jobNo losses Until Recovery Total nonfarm employwere the largest groupOOrof was reego gonn && W Wment shin ingto gtonn revised upward by aash laid off Oregonians. Longapproximately 13,000 jobs FREE INITIAL INITIAL CONSULTATION term unemployment has also CONSULTATION FREE per month for December reached its highest point in 2020 through March 2021. nine years.”

Upward revisions were In Oregon, hiring slowed most pronounced in leisure as nonfarm payroll employand hospitality (+6,000 STAFF REPORT chiefnews@countrymedia.net

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jobs), health care and social assistance (+3,000), and retail trade (+1,900). These gains were partially offset by downward revisions that were most pronounced in professional and business services (-2,000 jobs).

The Oregon Employment Department reports 2,028,180 employed and 144,716 unemployed in April 2021 compared to 1,767,698 employed and 267,428 unemployed in April 2020.

The Coast Guard Cutter Steadfast has returned to Astoria after completing a 10,000-mile, 49-day counter-narcotics patrol in the Eastern Pacific Ocean and netting $33 million dollars in cocaine.

The cutter served as an on-scene law enforcement asset in support of U.S. Southern Command’s Joint Interagency Task Force South and Coast Guard District 11, with primary missions of drug and migrant interdiction, search and rescue, and international relations.

While patrolling international waters of the Eastern Pacific Ocean, Steadfast intercepted a vessel suspected of smuggling illicit narcotics.

The interdiction resulted in the seizure of over 2,400 pounds of cocaine worth an estimated $33 million, and the detainment of three suspected traffickers.

Coast Guard cutters operating in the Eastern Pacific push U.S. borders over 1,500 miles offshore, which is critical to confronting drug cartels and enhancing national security.

Steadfast completed biennial Aviation Standardization Training near the coast of Southern California with a Coast Guard MH-65 helicopter. This training is designed to increase the operational proficiency of the ship and helicopter crews.

“This patrol reinforced the maxim that people, not platforms, are the most important key to operational

Courtesy photo by U.S. Coast Guard Ens. Grace Hodges

The crew of the U.S. Coast Guard Cutter Steadfast seized more than 2,400 pounds of cocaine with an estimated value of $33 million while patrolling in international waters.

success,” U.S. Coast Guard Stadfast Commander Craig Allen said. “Despite encountering some significant equipment and logistics challenges, the Steadfast crew rose to the occasion time and again and achieved remarkable results.”

Allen said his team is fortunate to sail with several members filling key positions from other Coast Guard units, including USCGC Waesche, Maritime Safety and Security Teams LA/LB and San Francisco, Sector Field Office Southwest Maine, and Coast Guard Headquarters.

“All were superb additions to the Steadfast team,” Allen said. “Additionally, we had the opportunity to work with a fellow Pacific Northwest 210’ cutter, CGC Active, who helped us out on

multiple occasions with timesensitive logistics support.”

To ensure the safety of Steadfast’s crew during the COVID-19 global pandemic, the crew conducted pre-deployment COVID-19 testing, followed by a seven-day monitoring period. Throughout their patrol, Steadfast’s crew maintained strict health precautions during all interactions with the public, including wearing N95 masks at all times and undergoing intensive health screenings prior to each boarding.

Steadfast is a 53-yearold Reliance Class 210-foot medium endurance cutter that has been homeported in Astoria since 1994. Steadfast’s primary missions include search and rescue, counterdrug, migration interdiction and homeland security operations.

Let’s talk prices and Memorial Day deals!

LAKEN GORTLER Sponsored content

I can’t believe it’s already the middle of May, can you?

All segments of our business are really busy, and unfortunately, the prices reflect that.

As most of you have probably seen or heard, (or maybe read about in this newspaper) the price of building materials is high. We’re hoping we might see a bit of a respite soon, and we expect it to be about 120 days out if that helps you to plan your projects. The prices won’t drop in huge amounts, but it will relent a little bit - at least, that’s the best guess we’ve got.

However, our Farm & Ranch business is doing very well. We’ve got one of the largest selections of farm gates, feeders, and water troughs in the state of Oregon. Yes, there have been some supply issues, but we’ve got a pretty good supply on hand right now. The price of feed is up a little bit, too, but still very profitable.

We’d also like to mention that if you pick up a ton of feed or more, we’ll deliver it for a small fee.

Which brings us to our upcoming Memorial Day

Sale! For a limited time only, we have ready-built cedar garden boxes which vary in price from $39-$89. On Memorial Day, we’ll be dropping the price by 15 percent, and you can get your seeds for planting at half off! Not only that, but we’re dropping our price on barbeque pellets

by a dollar, down to $5.99.

And, as if Eric wasn’t crazy enough, he’s dropping a dime off our already stubbornly low price on propane - you can pick some up for $1.89.

Stop by and see us! We’ll help you kick this summer off right!

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Friday, May 28, 2021

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New sports season, new challenges JEREMY C. RUARK jruark@countrymedia.net

Clatskanie Middle/High School athletes and coaches endured 2020 and this year with set backs and challenges triggered by the COVID-19 pandemic, but over the past few months the teams have come back strong.

With the state’s health and safety limitations, the regular sports seasons have been adjusted and abbreviated. The following is a conversation with Clatskanie Middle/High School Athletic Director Ryan Tompkins to gain insight into the remaining sports season as the students wrap up 2021.

The Chief: What limitations are the teams facing with this season?

Ryan Tompkins: We

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Sprague: There are always those situations during games and seasons but I do not want to expand into anything personal.

The Chief: What players on this team were the leaders and how did they help motivate the team?

Sprague: This years senior class of Kalani Ausmus, Shelby Blodgett, Kami Harrison, Kaity Sizemore, Alexis Smith and Olivia Sprague were tremendous leaders and they are a very accomplished group and that can be intimidating to younger players.

That core group each in someway helped mentor the younger players but their biggest leadership skill was probably unknown to them.

For young players to see older more accomplished players go about their work and see them make mistakes in practice and games and not breakdown or act as if it is the end of the world but just get up and do it again better than the last time.

To see them manage their emotions and then still succeed eventually frees up the younger player to just play and get better.

You pair up that with an unyielding want to be better and win, this years Senior class in my opinion, will be the gold standard which all future years will be measured against.

The Chief: What will the players and the coaches gain from this season that will help them throughout their lives?

Sprague: Well it is and has been my goal as a “Coach” to use softball as a tool.

Sure the immediate goal in front of you is to win softball games and if you do that consistently enough you will win titles but really you

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are excited to be playing, but there’s never been a busier time. Kids have a lot going on with the end of the school year, summer jobs and graduation. There is a dip in participating for Season 4, compared to the other seasons as schedule conflicts are prevalent. Regardless, we are excited to be offering the opportunity, that just a few weeks ago, seemed pretty bleak.

The Chief: What limitations (at this point) are the spectators facing?

Tompkins: Under high risk, our occupancy limits are 10% of the occupancy or 50, whichever is greater.

Under high risk, spectators will be very limited. We may have an opportunity to permit one or two guests, but that will be determined by the metrics and will change from school-toschool.

are hoping to instill basic successful habits that can be applied to any situation.

So, not just this season, but I hope all the seasons, helped them understand that success comes from consistently giving your best effort and that each day you give your best effort will result in some improvement. But more importantly is the understanding that it will not always be evident everyday that you have gotten better but you have to believe and have strong faith in yourself that thru the ups and downs of day to day life that you are on the right path.

The Chief: Feel free to add any other comments you might have.

Sprague: I want to thank the parents and all of Clatskanie for their support this year and a special Thank You to the best coaching staff you could possibly have. Jake Sizemore, Nick Smith, Teauna Hughes and McKenzie Garlock you all have contributed immeasurably to the success of this years team.

I also want to send my congratulations to Rainier for a great season, I have the utmost respect for Jim Knox, Lyle Keller, Eric Schimmel and Martha Halloran and their ability to produce high quality softball teams year in and year out.

Clatskanie won the 3A OSAA State Softball Champions in 2019 after defeating Dayton 10-5 in a thrilling matchup at the University of Oregon in Eugene. That year, Clatskanie enter the state final game with an undefeated season.

Clatskanie’s 2020 softball season was cancelled due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

As the 2021 adjusted and abbreviated season opened in late April Sprague said, “We are looking forward to getting going and putting the disappointment of not playing last season behind us.”

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The Chief: What is your hope that the kids take away from this abbreviated season and the lessons that they might take with them in life?

Tompkins: Ultimately the experiences of getting to play and the memories that you gain in HS, are irreplaceable. Something as simple as a bus ride with your friends, is an experience that I feel is worth all of the effort for us to offer for the students of Clatskanie.

See the results of Clatskanie Middle/High School sports competition at the osaa.org.

Chief photo

The Clatskanie Middle/High School Girls Basketball Team in action in Brookings during state playoffs in 2020. Clatskanie went on to capture the 3A State Title.