New library director
At the fair Page A6
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FRIDAY, JULY 23, 2021
VOL. 130, NO. 11 Serving the Lower Columbia Region since 1891
School districts prepare for new year ahead our buildings, require hand washing or hand sanitizer and maintaining a distance of three feet between desks/ chairs.” she said.
JEREMY C. RUARK jruark@countrymedia.net
Clatskanie and Rainier School District officials are preparing to welcome students to the new school year ahead with hopes of returning to a more normal education environment following the COVID-19 pandemic disruptions and challenges. “The path is clear for students to return to full time, in-person instruction next year,” Oregon Department of Education (ODE) Director Colt Gill said. The ODE has announced the Ready Schools, Safe Learners Resiliency Framework for the 2021-22 School Year June 25. The Resiliency Framework helps school districts prepare their staff and campuses for the next academic year. “Working together, we can harness this opportunity to rekindle joy and learning in the classrooms, auditoriums, and playgrounds across Oregon,” Gill said. “Oregon schools are ready to once again be vibrant places for learners, staff, and their families.” As Oregon enters the next chapter of the COVID-19 pandemic, the Resiliency Framework shifts public school districts to a more traditional, local decision-making model, so that communities can make the health and safety decisions that serve students best, according to the ODE. Clatskanie School District Superintendent Cathy Hurowitz said the school board discussed
Rainier School District
Metro Creative Connection / The Chief
As children return to the new school year, Clatskanie and Rainier School Districts are planning for more back to normal learning in September, while still following state and federal health and safety guidelines.
school safety at its July 12 regular public meeting. “The new guidance from the ODE and the OHA is recommendation only,” she said. “It was decided that Clatskanie School District will not require masks for fully vaccinated. We strongly recommend that unvaccinated individuals continue to wear a mask for their own safety but it is not a mandate. It will be up to the student’s family to decide the mask issue.” Hurowitz said school districts across the state were notified on July
9 that school busses fall under public transportation laws. “Students who ride the bus as well as bus drivers are required to wear a mask on the bus,” she said. “This is a federal law that supersedes state guidance.” Hurowitz said the district plans to offer in person instruction to the majority of students. “We are also continuing with our academy/alternative program and we will offer an online option for those families who want to continue to home school,” Hurowitz said.
The Clatskanie district also saw a loss of students due to the pandemic. “We are down about 80 students due to COVID-19,” Hurowitz said. “Some families moved away and some could not do online instruction and learning. We are expecting most of those students to return this year and are prepared to support them.” Hurowitz said the district will be following the health and safety recommendations provided by the Oregon Health Authority and the Oregon Department of Education. “We will continue to sanitize
In Rainier, Superintendent Joseph Hattrick said Rainier School District is still in the initial planning phase for the next school year this fall. “Parents should know that as we begin our planning, we are planning a return to normal,” Hattrick said. “Students will be at school five-days per week with a 1 p.m. dismissal on Wednesdays. We are still exploring the requirements around distance learning as an option and I will be seeking input from parents to determine if virtual learning options are preferred for their families.” Hattrick did not provide specific numbers of students that had left the district for one reason or the other during the pandemic. “As I understand it, districts across the country lost students and I expect as we return to in-person learning, those students will return,” he said. Hattrick said the Rainier schools would also continue to follow health and safety practices. “I think it will continue to be a best-practice to do contact tracing,” he said “In the same way we have always had visitor logs and attendance, we need to know who is on our campus. Additionally, it is our See SCHOOL Page A5
Oregon’s dangerous wildfire season
Courtesy photo from the Oregon State Fire Marshal
The Bootleg Fire in Southern Oregon has burned across nearly 400,000 acres. It is one of Oregon’s largest fires ever. HILARY DORSEY
headlightheraldreporter@countrymedia.net
“We must be prepared. Each and every one of us,” Gov. Kate Brown said during a media briefing concerning Oregon’s wildfires. As of this week, there were currently nine wildfires, consuming over 450,000 acres, burning across Oregon. The largest, at nearly 400,00 acres is the Bootleg Fire in Southern Oregon. That fire began July 7 northwest of Klamath Falls and has destroyed 21 homes and several other buildings, according to fire officials. The Bootleg Fire is now one of Oregon’s largest ever wildfires. Teams from Utah and California have partnered with Oregon to respond to the Bootleg Fire in the Fremont-Winema National Forest in Lakeview. Fire officials said the wildfire, which is believed to have
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been triggered by lighting, was over 30 percent contained by Wednesday morning. “The weather conditions – windy and dry with lightning – are truly problematic,” Brown said during the media briefing Tuesday, July 20. “It’s shaping up to be another difficult wildfire season.” There are extensive drought conditions throughout the state, with 19 counties in drought emergencies, according to Oregon fire officials.
“The remainder of the season continues to look above normal dry and above normal temperatures,” Grafe said. “This is not going to return to normal anytime soon.” The Elbow Creek Fire began July 15 and has grown over 16,000 acres and is 15 percent contained, Grafe said. The fire is in the Grande Ronde River drainage near Mud Springs. A fire fighting task force from Columbia County joined other firefighters at that location this week. Previously the Columbia County team had been assisting at the Grandview Fire, reported July 11, located near Sisters. That wildfire was close to full containment this week at approximately 6,032 acres. “Being prepared is one of the best ways you can help frontline firefighters do theirs jobs,” Brown said. “Make a plan with your family, sign up for local alerts at oralert. gov so you’re aware of fires in your community.” Fire officials in Columbia County continued to urge everyone to be aware, to be cautious and to be prepared due to the heightened wildfire dangers. The following emergency preparation recommendations can be found at Ready.gov. Recognize Warnings and Alerts
It’s shaping up to be another difficult wildfire season. ~ Kate Brown, Oregon Governor
Drought impact Department of Forestry Fire Chief Doug Grafe said the drought conditions across Oregon are driving the fire potential. “Ninety percent of the state is in exceptional, extreme or severe drought conditions,” Grafe said. The heat dome in late June – with 100 plus degrees – propelled the state into early fire conditions. There have been 580 fires to date.
Have several ways to receive alerts. Download the FEMA app and receive real-time alerts from the National Weather Service for up to five locations nationwide. Sign up for community alerts in your area and be aware of the Emergency Alert System (EAS) and Wireless Emergency Alert (WEA)- which requires no-sign up. Make an emergency plan and review your evacuation zone Make sure everyone in your household knows and understands what to do if you need to quickly evacuate. See WILDFIRE Page A4
Jeremy C. Ruark / The Chief
A child enjoys the water during open swim at the Clatskanie Pool.
Back in the water! JEREMY C. RUARK jruark@countrymedia.net
“I am overcome with emotion,” Clatskanie Parks and Recreation District Administrator Cyndi Warren said as she stood at the side of the Clatskanie Pool. A $600,000 renovation project began in February at the pool, at 346 NE 5th Street. The renovations are now complete. “It’s been an amazing transformation,” Warren said. “I am so excited for the kids, the lifeguards and everybody to experience the pool this summer.” Built in 1958, the Clatskanie Pool is 90-feet long, 60-feet wide, and holds approximately 135,000 gallons of water, but over the years it has aged and significant repairs were needed. 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 has been replaced with a splash pad and multiple pool piping issues including failures, potential failures and existing leaks were addressed. The splash pad offers areas for pool patrons to pass though a series of water sprays. Certified lifeguards are stationed at the pool during operations of both the splash pad and
the pool itself. Swim lessons are also offered, as well as lap sessions, open swims, synchronized swimming and swim exercising. Prices to swim at the pool have also been adjusted this summer. “We went to one price, a $5 entry fee for everyone and we did modify and lower our summer passes because it is a shorter summer swim season,” Warren said. “Lessons are $26 for two weeks worth of lessons and we thought that was a reasonable price, so we didn’t change that.” For more details about the prices and the pool schedule, call the Clatskanie Pool at 503-728-2757. “It looks great,” Clatskanie resident John Vesik said as he walked out onto the pool deck with his three granddaughters. “Things are clean and I want to see how the little splash pad works. I have a 2-year-old here, so she’ll have fun.” 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.
Phone: 503-397-0116 Fax: 503-397-4093 chiefnews@countrymedia.net 1805 Columbia Blvd., St. Helens, OR 97051
ColumbiaCountyOR.Gov/Vaccine | 503-397-7247
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Friday, July 23, 2021
Library District gets new director
Maryanne Hirning is the new Clatskanie Library District Director. JEREMY C. RUARK jruark@countrymedia.net
Maryanne Hirning began her new position as the new Clatskanie Library District Director June 1. The Chief had a chance to visit with Hirning to talk about her insight into her job, her goals and the challenges ahead. The Chief: Briefly give us the background that you bring to this position. Maryanne Hirning: In 2018 I received my Masters in Library and Information Science from the University of Washington. I spent one year at Rainier Jr./Sr. High School as their school librarian and fell in love with the community that develops in small towns. I then spent three years as a librarian at Lower Columbia College. Working in a small academic library really allowed me to grow my skill-set in a number of areas, and as much as I loved my coworkers and the college in general, I felt ready to take on the next challenge. When the director position at Clatskanie came to my attention, I knew it would be the perfect fit. Every day of the last seven weeks has further solidified that this is exactly where I need to be; every day is equal parts ex-
hilarating and exhausting. I’m married to Ted, who is an assistant principal at St. Helens High School. We have two boys. Our oldest son is an officer in the National Guard, currently deployed in Poland, and our youngest son is starting his junior year at Washington State University in Pullman. Ted has already been put to work helping me paint a few interior library walls, and there is no doubt our boys will pitch in whenever they are available. The Chief: As the Library Director at the Clatskanie Public Library, what are your top goals and how are you working to reach those goals? Hirning: I think I have two main overarching goals. One is the fairly boring, but necessary, nuts and bolts goal: create a solid foundation of internal systems that serves the library for years to come. This entails working with the elected Board of Directors to create a new employee handbook, new job descriptions, creating and implementing policies and procedures for all aspects of the day to day running of the library, and most importantly creating a five year strategic plan. The second is the fun goal: getting to know the community, finding out what their needs are, and finding ways to meet those needs.
Jeremy C. Ruark / The Chief
The library has a dedicated group of users, but we have the potential to grow that group tremendously. The State Library of Oregon offers so many amazing resources that are underutilized currently by our library. There are so many folks in this state that want to provide resources and funding for worthy projects and partnerships, as well that we need to tap into. The Chief: What do you see as the challenges facing the Clatskanie Library District and how are you working to overcome those challenges? Hirning: I think the challenge we face here is the challenge many libraries face, and it often boils down to marketing. Librarians need to communicate to their community what a modern library can offer them. We need to show our value more concretely. We need to be cheerleaders in the community. Libraries are places full of innovation, but we aren’t always great about getting that information out to people. Far too few people are aware of the myriad of resources that are available to them, for free. Physical books are awesome; I’m a voracious reader and I love to put books in hands, but I can also help you use a database to write a college paper, help you
format a resume, or walk you through the Libby app so you can listen to an audiobook on your commute to work. There are so many ways we can help connect people to the information or resources they need more quickly than they can on their own. I’m going to overcome this challenge by building relationships and partnerships in the community. Tweaking the website, creating a more attractive library catalog, and expanding our social networking presence are all in the works. I want everything associated with the library to be as user-friendly as possible.
Hirning: We are open for business as usual. We currently are in our summer hours: • 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday • 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Thursday and Friday • 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday
appreciation event in September, as well as a full calendar of events this fall, including participating in the Columbia County Reads events. Hirning replaces Naomi Fisher who left the position earlier this year. Fisher had replaced Elizabeth Kruse, who served as the director for more than 30 years.
We are continuing to offer the pick-up window for those patrons who love the ease and convenience, too. We are planning a patron
The Clatskanie Public Library is located at 11 Lillich Street in Clatskanie. You can reach the library by calling 503-728-3732.
The Chief: What is it about being a librarian that you enjoy? Hirning: Literally everything. I love people and few things bring me more happiness than being able to connect people to the resources they need. A day well spent for me is one in which I’ve learned something new and I’ve helped someone. The Chief: What is the current staff makeup at the library, full and part employees and volunteers? Hirning: We have three part-time workers who have done extraordinary work during the last tumultuous 16 months. I could not be more pleased with the tremendous talent that resides within these individuals. Each team member brings a particular skill set that is necessary for the library to run successfully. We have a robust Friends of the Library group that volunteers so much of their time and talent to the library. I can’t wait to see people flock to the Friend’s Book Sale July 29th - July 31st. I’m also so fortunate to have a Board of Directors that is invested and involved. The Chief: What are the current hours of operation at the Clatskanie Public Library and are there any pandemicrelated restrictions?
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Jurassic Empire Schedule Weekdays, July 29-30 | 3 pm-4 pm | 4 pm-6 pm | 6 pm-8 pm | The exhibit starts at 3 pm on Thursday and Friday *2 hour time slot increments*
Weekend, July 3,1 Aug 1 10 am-12 pm | 12 pm-2 pm | 2 pm-4 pm | 4 pm-6 pm | 6 pm-8 pm | *2 hour time slot increments* Attend anytime within the time slot selection. If you choose the 6 pm- 8 pm time slot, please make sure you come in before 7:30pm. The whole drive-thru takes anywhere from 20 minutes to more than 1 hour depending on how many cars show up at any given hour. If you order the optional Dino Pack online you will receive it after we check you in at the gate. Order tickets here: jurassicempire.ticketspice.com/columbia-county-fairgrounds WEEKDAY Per Vehicle With 1-7 Passengers General Admission. Drive-Thru Tour of the Dino Exhibit. Price is per vehicle, not per person: $49.00 WEEKDAY Per Vehicle With 8-14 Passengers General Admission. Drive-Thru Tour of the Dino Exhibit. Price is per vehicle, not per person: $80.00
58892 Saulser Rd, St. Helens, OR 97051
SLICKER WILL BE PLAYING AUGUST 21ST STARTING AT 8 PM-11PM! BEER GARDENS AND FOOD VENDOR ON SITE!! Purchase tickets here: www.columbiacountyfairgrounds.com/p/purchase-tickets Price: 17 & Under $20, 18 and Up $25
58892 Saulser Rd, St. Helens, OR 97051
Columbia County Fairgrounds presents
Cale
Moon
Price: 17 & Under $20, 18 and Up $25
Cale Moon with a opener of Catherine Loyer. August 7th starting at 8PM!! BEER GARDENS AND FOOD VENDOR ON SITE! Purchase tickets here:
www.columbiacountyfairgrounds.com/p/purchase-tickets 58892 Saulser Rd, St Helens, OR 97051
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LOVE LODE REUNION will be playing August 20th starting at 8 PM-11PM! BEER GARDENS AND FOOD VENDOR ON SITE! Purchase tickets here: www.columbiacountyfairgrounds.com/ events/2020/love-lode-reunion-band 17 & Under $20, 18 and Up $25 58892 Saulser Rd, St. Helens, OR 97051
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Friday, July 23, 2021
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Library fostering teen reading JEREMY C. RUARK jruark@countrymedia.net
The Clatskanie Library has become well known for offering a robust pre-school Story Time program and annual Summer Reading Program for youth up to 12-years-old, according to Becky White with the Clatskanie Library District. Three years ago, White, mentor of the book clubs for youth and teens at the library, decided that she needed to find ways to expand programming to reach more of the library district’s teens. In 2018, White’s youth book club hosted a Summer Reading Program themed teen movie night, which grew into an outdoor movie and full moon campout in the library’s park in 2019. Although 2020 brought inperson gatherings to a halt, White was able to secure grant funding from the State Library of Oregon and the Columbia County Cultural Coalition, which was previously tagged for live performances, to host eight weeks of programming specifically for teenagers, in addition to its usual youth Summer Reading Program. According to White, the momentum of teen programs has sometimes been surprisingly slow to build in an area that lacks a lot of activities for teenagers, but she said she has noticed more kids are beginning to take advantage of the library’s offerings and that “hands down, kids prefer hands-on activities.” This year, after twelve months of online activities, White said she was determined to find safe ways to bring live activities back to the library. “Because planning starts months in advance, we had to plan a mix of in-person and
Jeremy C. Ruark / The Chief
The Clatskanie Library District is located at 11 Lillich Street and can be reached at 503-728-3732.
online activities that children could engage in safely with their own families throughout the week,” she said. The library test drove the concept last spring by offering a Story Book Trail in the park and a program called “Clatskanie Reads.” in which different community members read children’s stories on the Library’s Facebook page. “Engagement in activities that families could do together on their own time was high, and the Story Book Trail was such a hit that we hosted another during the Summer Reading Program,” White said. But with summer grant funds once again focused on programming for younger kids, White said she needed to look for other ways to continue reaching teenagers. This spring she wrote and was awarded two different grants tagged specifically for teens. With a Grant for “Distance Learning of Art & Culture” from the Columbia County Cultural Coalition, sponsored by the Friends of the Clatskanie Library, the library was able to offer a virtual painting party led by local artist Jessica Fentner. Participants received a kit containing easels, paints,
brushes, palettes, and books about acrylic painting, to keep. The party was hosted using Zoom. Fentner, who was visiting a Van Gogh exhibit in Las Vegas, taught from the Mandalay Bay Hotel using a design inspired by the impressionist exhibit and the hotel’s shark week display. White said the public can see the work of Clatskanie’s talented teens by visiting the library where the work is on display through the first week of August. White also wrote and was awarded by the State Library of Oregon, a $3,000 Teen Services Grant. The grant will be used to purchase enough book club books for 10-15 teens for twelve months and to form a Teen Advisory Group that will help to update the young adult collection and develop teen programming at the library. Traditionally, the Friends of the Library purchase books that up to 20 book club members ranging from second to twelfth grade get to keep. “Receiving this grant is very exciting because it will allow us to increase membership in both the elementary and middle-high school groups,” White said. “Our existing teen book club
members have been meeting regularly this summer to help choose the reading list for 2021-22, but we definitely have room for more members.” White said the teen advisory group is an amazing opportunity for youth to have a voice in the activities that they want to see at their library. Early brainstorming sessions have raised ideas about ways to connect teens to the library using social media, forming an Oregon Battle of the Books Team, field trips to Powell’s City of Books in Portland, inviting authors to talk at the library and more. Youth in grades 7-12, including home school students, who are interested in becoming members of the advisory council can contact the library for more information. The Clatskanie Library is located at 11 Lillich Street in Clatskanie. To reach the library, call 503-728-3732.
•
•O bituaries • • Keith Krotzer
May 8, 1974 ~ July 2, 2021 Keith died fishing at Gnat Creek outside Westport, Oregon on July 2, 2021. He leaves behind his mother Darolyn; step-father Dusty; father Kenneth; stepmother Diana; six brothers; seven sisters-in-law; nine nieces; 12 nephews; two grandmothers; one grandfather; plus numerous friends. He was an avid outdoorsman enjoying Jesus’ creation. He will be greatly missed. Donations can be made in his honor to the Clatskanie Festival.
Douglas L. Brown
Nov. 17, 1942 ~ Dec. 9, 2020 Douglas Brown, from Clatskanie, Oregon, passed away on Dec. 9, 2020. A memorial will be held at 1 p.m. on Aug. 6, 2021 at Murray Hill Cemetery with light refreshments to follow at the Clatskanie City Park.
Annual Buck-A-Book $ALE!
Biggest Sale EVER with proceeds going to fund Children’s programs at the Library
Thursday & Friday, July 29 and July 30 10 a.m. to 5 p.m
FREE LEMONADE!
Buck-A-Box or Bag Closeout $ALE! Saturday, July 31, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.
CLATSKANIE LIBRARY,
POOL
11 Lillich Street • 503 728-3732
From Page A1 Following a limited summer season due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the pool closed in September 2020. Warren said the future of the Clatskanie Pool likely will not include covering the facility, even though over the years it has been a community discussion. But the cost would be prohibitive she said. “For the most part, the feedback is that people love our outdoor pool and not having it year round,” Warren said. ‘We get people who come all the way from Astoria and from Longview, communities that have their own covered pools, who tell us they like the charm of our outdoor pool.” Warren added that the
Jeremy C. Ruark / The Chief
These two youngsters were the first in the pool as open swim began Wednesday, July 21 at the Clatskanie Pool.
Clatskanie Pool is operated as a community service. “There is no money to be made,” she said. “Whatever we take in goes right back to operations and maintenance of the pool.” The Clatskanie Parks and Recreation District has hired Charity Lickfold as the new pool manager. Warren said they hope to keep the pool open, at least on a limited bases in evenings and weekends through September, weather
and staff permitting. The challenge has been getting certified lifeguards for the pool, Warren said. “Right now we only have 11 certified lifeguards and we need 18 to 20,” she said. Warren said they are working to find and train the needed lifeguards. The cost of the pool renovations are funded through the city’s Scout Lake Funds, a special timber revenue collection set aside by the City of Clatskanie.
Clatskanie Swimming Pool Schedule 2021 503-728-2757, csp@cni.net
Monday – Thursday (Tots, Basic 1, 2, 3 = 30 min.; Adv. = 45 min.) 6:00 – 7:00AM: Lap Swim 7:00 – 8:00AM: Water Exercise 8:00 – 8:45AM: Synchronized Swimming 8:45 – 9:30AM: Swim Lessons Advanced Levels 4, 5, 6 9:30 – 10:00AM: Swim Lessons Tots & Basic Levels 1, 2, 3 10:15 – 10:45AM: Swim Lessons Tots & Basic Levels 1, 2, 3 10:45 – 11:15AM: Swim Lessons Tots & Basic Levels 1, 2, 3 11:15 – 11:45AM: Swim Lessons Water Babies, Tots 11:45 – 12:30PM: Pool Closed (Lunch/Cleaning/Prepare), Office Hours Only 12:30 – 3:30PM: Open Swim (Main Pool & Splashpad) 3:45 – 4:15PM: Swim Lessons Tots & Basic Levels 1, 2, 3 4:15 – 4:45PM: Swim Lessons Tots & Basic Levels 1, 2, 3 5:00 – 5:30PM: Swim Lessons Tots & Basic Levels 1, 2, 3 5:30 – 6:15PM: Advanced Levels 4, 5, 6 6:30 – 9:00PM: Open Swim Fridays
6:00 – 7:00AM: Lap Swim 7:00 – 8:00AM: Water Exercise 8:00 – 9:00AM: Synchronized Swimming 9:00 – 10:30AM: Staff In-service (Splash pad and Pool closed to the public) 10:45 – 12:15PM: Open Swim 1st Friday of Lessons (July 16 and 30, August 13) 10:45 – 12:15PM: Family Fun Day the 2nd Friday of Lessons (July 23, August 6 and 20) 12:15 – 1:00PM: Closed for cleaning 1:00 – 4:00PM: Open Swim (Main Pool & Splashpad) 4:00 – 5:30PM: Open Swim 1st Friday of Lessons (July 23, August 6 and 20) 4:00 – 5:30PM: Family Fun Day the 2nd Friday of Lessons (July 30, August 13 and 27) 5:30 – 6:00PM: Closed for cleaning 6:00 – 9:00PM: Open Swim At this time, the pool will NOT be open on Saturday and Sunday, with the exception of pool rentals.
Swim Lesson Sessions – Monday through Friday (2 weeks) Session 2: August 2nd to August 13th Registration opens Monday, July 26th Session 3: August 16th to 27th Registration opens Monday, August 9th NOTE: Registration opens one week prior to first day of session. No exceptions. You may call or email to register. Please be patient as we are a small staff doing our absolute best! NOTE: With prior notice, this schedule is subject to change.
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• 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. Oregon State Police July 2 • At 8:10 a.m. Oregon State Police conducted an offensive littering investigation on the westbound shoulder of Highway 30 at milepost 9.5. During the investigation, two subjects were identified as owners of the trash. Both owners had recently been evicted from an apartment complex in Scappoose. ODOT was notified for removal of the debris and an attempt will be made to locate the suspects. July 2 • At 2:22 p.m. Oregon State Police responded to a suspicious person call on Highway 30 at the Alston Mayger Scales near milepost 53. A caller reported a shirtless male piling sticks and paper together to start a fire. When OSP arrived the suspect fled on foot to the east side of the scales and
began throwing trash around. Witnesses were interviewed and it was discovered the suspect was standing in the westbound lane of Highway 30 and throwing trash across the highway. The suspect eventually jumped into a large section of blackberry bushes. The suspect was eventually taken into custody and evaluated by medics. While being evaluated, the suspect intentionally swallowed a plastic part of a water bottle. The suspect was cited and released to the medics for transport to an area hospital. July 3 • At 7:43 p.m. A trooper conducted a traffic stop on a vehicle speeding on Highway 30 near milepost 13. The driver of the vehicle had an outstanding warrant in Columbia County. The driver was cited and released for the warrant and warned for the traffic infraction. He was given a courtesy ride to his residence. The warrant was located by Northern Command Center. July 5 • At 6:16 p.m. OSP was dispatched to a three-vehicle crash in the area of Highway 30 near milepost 43 in Columbia County. Unit #1 was travelling westbound on Highway 30 when it crossed over into the eastbound lane striking Unit #2 and then Unit #3 who were both headed eastbound. The driver of #1 stated he may have fallen asleep as he was headed home from work. The
• • Rainier All Class Picnic 11 a.m. Sunday, July 25, at Hudson-Parcher Park, 75503 Larson Road, one mile northwest of Rainier. Pot luck at noon. The Rainier Oregon
Friday, July 23, 2021
•B lotter • •
driver of #1 and rear passenger of #3 were transported from the scene by ambulance to St. John Hospital in Longview, WA for evaluation. All three vehicles were removed from the scene by Drake’s Towing July 12 • At 9:43 am. OSP received a report from a landowner in the Rainier area regarding an injured red-tailed hawk on his property. The hawk appeared to have an injured wing and was unable to fly. The hawk was captured and transported to the Audubon Society for evaluation. • At 10:08 a.m. OSP responded to a two-vehicle, injury crash on Highway 30 near milepost 25. Investigation revealed Unit 2 was traveling westbound in the “B” lane when the driver slowed for a posted speed limit change. Unit 1 was following Unit 2, and the driver looked down and didn’t see Unit 2 slowing. Unit 1 crashed into the rear of Unit 2. Driver of Unit 2 transported by ambulance to the hospital for a head injury. Unit 1 driven from the scene; Unit 2 secured. Driver of Unit 1 warned. July 14 • At 3:57 p.m. OSP recovered a wallet and shorts from ODFW staff on Sauvie Island. The items were turned in by a good sanitarian who found them along Reeder Rd. near Walton Beach. The items were secured as safe keeping at the St. Helens worksite.
July 15 • At 5:31 p.m. OSP received a report of a vehicle stolen from the area of Highway 30 and Oregon 127 near milepost 13. The registered owner had left the vehicle at the location due to a flat tire. The owner returned some time later to find the vehicle gone. The owner assumed the vehicle had been towed by law enforcement but after checking with several agencies and learning it wasn’t entered into LEDS decided sign it as stolen. July 17 • At 11:55 a.m. Troopers responded to a multi-vehicle unknown-injury crash on Highway 30 near Tarbell Road. Troopers conducted an investigation and observed indicators of impairment on the at fault driver. The driver consented to performing voluntary field sobriety tests and was subsequently arrested for DUII and reckless driving. The driver refused consent for a blood draw and a warrant was obtained. Two vials of blood were later seized as evidence and the driver was booked and released on the above charges. The vehicle was towed by Grumpy’s Towing St. Helens Police June 28 • Police responded to a death investigation at the 300 block of S. 7th Street. • Police arrested a 25-year-old male in the 400 block of 1st
Street on several charges, including a warrant, intimidate/ criminal threat, kidnapping, resisting arrest, and escape. July 1 • Police arrested a 40-yearold male near 1st and Cowlitz Streets on a misdemeanor warrant. • Police arrested a 65-yearold male on a violation of a restraining order near the 500 block of S. Columbia River Highway. July 2 • Police arrested a 46-year-old male near the 2000 block of Gable Road on a warrant. • Police arrested a 24-yearold male on several charges, including assault on public safety officers, resisting arrest, escape 3 and detainer near the 500 block of S. 9th St. July 3 • Police arrested a 45-year-old individual on a warrant near S. First Street and Plaza Square.
the 1600 block of Old Portland Road. July 13 • Police arrested a 32-year-old individual for tampering with physical evidence and cited for drug offenses near 2200 Gable Road. • Police cited and released a 27-year-old male near Sunset Blvd. on multiple warrants. July 14 • Police arrested a 38-yearold male for driving under the influence of intoxicants near Columbia Blvd. Scappoose Police July 15 • While assisting and outside agency on near the intersection of Columbia River Highway and Johnson’s Landing Road, a two-vehicle accident occurred nearby. No injuries were reported and no citations were issued.
July 6 • Police took a report of a stolen vehicle in the block of 53000 Helens Way. • Police responded to a vehicle crash near the 2300 block of Columbia Blvd. • Police responded to a death investigation in the area of 2100 Oregon St.
July 17 • Police were dispatched to the report of a domestic in the 52000 block of SE 3rd Street. Following the investigation, A 37-year-old male from Clackamas was taken into custody for Assault IVDV, Harassment DV and Criminal Mischief II. The male was transported to the jail where he was lodged on his charges.
July 11 • Police arrested a 41-year-old individual on a warrant, probation violation, menacing near
The Rainier Police log and the logs from the Columbia County Sheriff were not available at press time.
•C ommunity E vents • •
Historical Museum will supply plates, utensils, coffee & water. It is suggested that you bring a pot luck dish and a folding chair. The Rainier Museum will pay for the parking
and supply a port-a-potty close to the picnic site. A donation jar will be at the sign-in table to help pay for expenses. For more details, call 360-7517039.
• Class Reunions Aug. 20-21 Clatskanie Class of 1966, together with classes 1965 and 1967, is celebrating their 55th reunion Aug, 20 and 21. Casual get together at 4 p.m. Aug. 20
at Colvins. Aug. 21 dinner at the Clatskaine Cultural Center, including live music, 4 to 10 pm. $55 per person. Please send your check and dinner choice (chicken, salmon, flank steak) to
Linda Ward 22424, Swedetown Road, Clatskanie 97016. For more info call Jack Minzey at 503-477-3631, or Cindy Wolf,at 360-673-2823.
WILDFIRE From Page A1
• You may have to evacuate quickly due to a wildfire. Learn your evacuation routes, practice with household, pets, and identify where you will go. • If you must evacuate to a public shelter, try to bring items that can help protect you and others in the shelter from COVID-19, such as hand sanitizer, cleaning materials, and two masks per person. Children under 2 years old and people who have trouble breathing should not wear masks. • Follow the instructions from local authorities. They will provide the latest recommendations based on the threat to your community and appropriate safety measures.
Weekly Online Poll Are you worried that the COVID-19 variant virus and those not seeking immunizations will lead to new face mask and social distancing requirements?
Yes
No
Last Week’s Results What do you think should be located at the former Humps Restaurant? 57% Craft brewery
20% Fast food restaurant 23% Specialized shops
Vote online at thechiefnews.com •
•C rossword S olutions • •
Solution for the July 116, 2021 crossword puzzle
Review important documents, gather supplies • Make sure your insurance policies and personal documents like ID are up to date. • Make copies and keep them in a secure password protected digital space. Have enough supplies for your household, include medication, disinfectant supplies, masks, pet supplies in your go bag or car trunk. Being prepared allows you to address smaller medical issues at home, alleviating the burden on urgent care centers
The Chief
Courtesy photo from the Oregon State Fire Marshal
Oregon fire officials believe the Bootleg Fire was caused by Lightning.
and hospitals. Strengthen you home • Use fire-resistant materials to build, renovate or make repairs. • Find an outdoor water source with a hose that can reach any area of your property. • Create a fire-resistant zone that is free of leaves, debris or flammable materials for at least 30 feet from
The Chief (USPS 116-360) is published weekly by Country Media, Inc. 1805 Columbia Blvd, St. Helens, OR 97051
your home. • Designate a room that can be closed off from outside air. Close all doors and windows. Set up a portable air cleaner to keep indoor pollution levels low when smoky conditions exist. See more preparation recommendations and what you need to know when returning home after being evacuated by wildfires at, https://wildfire.oregon.gov.
POSTMASTER: Send address changes to The Chief PO Box 1153, St. Helens, OR 97051
SUBSCRIPTION RATES: 1 month in county: $8 1 month out of county: $10 One year in county: $60 One year out of county: $80
Contact Us • Phone: (503) 397-0116 • Fax: (503) 397-4093 • Website: www.thechiefnews.com Editorial Email: chiefnews@countrymedia.net • Advertising Email: atrull@countrymedia.net
Editorial policy Opinions expressed on this page are independent of The Chief views and are solely those of the writers expressing them. Guest commentary We welcome all variety of community viewpoints in the newspaper. These longer, guest opinions might be columns written by newsmakers, public officials or organization representatives. Or you might just have interesting thoughts to share and a penchant for writing. If you’d like to submit a guest
column for publication, contact us at (503) 397-0116 or chiefnews@countrymedia.net. All columns are subject to editing for style, grammar and clarity. However, views expressed in guest columns are independent and do not represent those of The Chief, its staff or Country Media, Inc. 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. Letters policy This newspaper’s letters to the editor are limited to a maximum of 250 words and will be edited for grammar, spelling and blatant inaccuracies. Unsubstantiated or irresponsible allegations, or personal attacks on any individual,
will not be published. Letters containing details presented as facts rather than opinions must include their sources. Writers are limited to one published letter per month. All submissions must include the author’s full name, local street address and telephone number (only the name and city of residence will be published). By submitting a letter, writers also grant permission for them to be posted online. Opinions expressed on this page are the writer’s alone and do not represent the opinion of the newspaper or its parent company, Country Media, Inc.
www.thechiefnews.com
Friday, July 23, 2021
A5
Marketplace
It’s easy to place a classified ad in The Chief.
Just call 503.397.0116
Listings are updated daily at www.thechiefnews.com 150
502
502
502
738
Misc Services
Help Wanted
Help Wanted
Help Wanted
Livestock/Supplies
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
IMMEDIATE OPENING: St. Helens Chronicle and Clatskanie Chief, has an opening for a general assignment reporter in Columbia County. Primarily responsible for writing day-to-day news stories for the two weekly newspapers and accompanying websites. Reports to the publisher. The successful applicant will produce content featuring local businesses, government, schools, and community events. Country Media, Inc. offers highly competitive newsroom wages and a variety of employee benefits, including group health insurance; paid holidays, vacation and sick leave; mileage reimbursement;
and others. Send resume and cover letter to jruark@ countrymedia.net.
@ warren.cyndi@ yahoo or texting 208-249-7144. Required: Applicant must meet the requirement of being 15 years of age by the last day of the Lifeguard Training/Certification Course. Training will be provided. Any questions, please contact Cyndi Warren, 208-249-7144. Applications will not be accepted after 3:00pm on Wednesday, July 28, 2021.
Livestock Cash paid for unwanted horses, livestock and equipment. Call 503-601-9768.
312
Events
Clatskanie High School classes of 1955 and 1956 reunions are meeting at Colvin’s in Clatskanie on September 18th, 2021 starting at 1 pm. For information call Dale Hooper 503-728-3887 or Stan Erickson 503735-1454.
SCHOOL From Page A1
plan to the extent possible that masks be optional for staff and students. I expect some students will return wearing masks and that is completely acceptable and we are happy if any student chooses to use that safety measure.” The ODE Ready Schools, Safe Learners Resiliency Framework reflects Governor Kate Brown’s announcement June 25 of her order lifting all remaining COVID-19 health and safety restrictions issued under Oregon emergency statutes, including the executive order for K-12 schools. The key Resiliency Framework pillars are: • Oregon public schools will be returning to full-time,
Northwest Regional ESD is currently hiring full time Instructional Assistants and Speech Language Pathologists in Columbia County. Work in Early Childhood Special Education classrooms with children age 3-5. Several open positions (inc. bilingual). Apply at NWRESD.org; job 2136, 2137, 2138. LIFEGUARD Clatskanie Park & Recreation District will be accepting applications for approximately 4 Lifeguard positions. You can obtain and turn in the application by contacting Cyndi Warren
in-person instruction next school year. • A focus on connecting and relationship building as staff and students move back into full-time, in-person instruction. • Pre-pandemic instructional time requirements will be reinstituted. • School districts and charter schools may continue to offer online programs for students at their discretion. The Department will engage in an inclusive process to update Oregon’s remote learning quality standards over the next school year. • The vast majority of health and safety protocols, including face coverings and physical distancing in Ready Schools, Safe Learners guidance, which are currently mandatory, will move to advisory next academic year. The switch to advisory means school districts,
•
702
Garage Sales
Huge tack and misc sale Sat, July 24 from 10-5. Nikula Rd., Winlock, Wa. Pony mini cart, lots of saddles, blankets, bridles and more, including furniture, and metalbrook type cobb size cart.
public charter schools and private schools will have the option to implement, as appropriate, relevant advisory guidance from the federal Centers for Disease Control and the Oregon Health Authority, and may require face coverings, physical distancing and other measures. • Key measures that remain required include: Maintaining a communicable disease plan, maintaining an isolation space in schools and submitting a plan for operation. On July 22, the Oregon Department of Education released updates to its back to school guidelines. See those updates with this story at thechiefnews.com. Look for more Back to School stories in the Friday print editions of The Chief and online at thechiefnews. com.
860
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The Chief
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www.thechiefnews.com • 503-397-0116
Public Notices CC21-1492
IN THE CIRUCIT COURT OF THE STATE OF OREGON FOR THE COUNTY OF COLUMBIA Probate Department In the Matter of the Estate of JOYCE ANN RYAN, Deceased. No. 21PB03656 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 4589, 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 of the attorney for the personal representative. Dated and first published July 16, 2021. JoAnna R. Thompson, Personal Representative. STEPHEN D. PETERSEN, L.L.C., Attorney at Law, P.O. Box 459, Rainier, OR 97048.
CC21-1494
NOTICE OF REGULAR MEETING The Clatskanie Planning Commission will meet for a regular meeting on Wednesday, July 28th, 2021 at 7:00 p.m. in the Council Chambers at City Hall, upstairs in the Clatskanie Cultural Center.
Agenda items include, but are not limited to the following: Approval of the minutes of the May 26th 2021 regular meeting; a Public Hearing will be held to review a request for a annexation
into the City, with property location across the street from 1350 S. Conyers Creek Road, Clatskanie, Lot 7N4W17BB-02000. An updated agenda will be available at City Hall by July 23rd, 2021.
CC21-1491
NOTICE OF STORAGE AUCTION Riverside Self Storage is hereby holding an auction located at 917 W B St
Rainier OR 97048 on July 31, 2021 at 10am. We will be auctioning units held by
Lindsay Nyvall, Eric Jones and Christina Fischer.
•C rossword P uzzle • • STATEPOINT CROSSWORD THEME: LEGENDARY ATHLETES ACROSS
1. *Baseball’s “The Say Hey Kid” 5. TV tube in days of yore 8. Proof of age, pl. 11. Medicinal succulent 12. Toward shelter, nautically 13. White heron 15. Poet ____ Angelou 16. Where a bib is tied 17. Taste like grapes 18. *First African American to play in MLB 20. Chap or fella 21. Do like Etna 22. Auction set 23. Property defacer 26. Italian vermouth brand 30. 2nd largest bird in world 31. Informal wear 34. “The Man Who ____ Too Much” 35. Relating to Scandinavia 37. Chicken ____ ____ king 38. Nearsited one 39. Bear in the sky 40. The largest Asian antelope 42. *Dolphin great ____ Marino 43. Reusable painting pattern 45. Stands out
47. Cotillion V.I.P. 48. Deli item 50. Cain’s brother 52. *a.k.a. The Great Bambino 55. Oyster gem 56. Dwarf buffalo 57. Algonquian people 59. Body trunk 60. Hay spot 61. *”Battle of the Sexes” champion 62. A in FANBOYS 63. Altitude, for short 64. “Comme ci, comme Áa”
DOWN
1. Mom in Scotland 2. Wing-shaped 3. Walk-the-dog toy 4. Bottom of the ocean 5. Fastener 6. Move a plant 7. *Pele or Bob Feller when they debuted 8. Armenia’s neighbor 9. Cabinet div. 10. Dirty dwelling 12. Declares invalid 13. Encourage, two words 14. *NHL’s “The Great One” 19. Very angry 22. Type of English course,
for short 23. Where women are from? 24. “To death” in France 25. Florence Nightingale, e.g. 26. Mountain goat terrain 27. Opposite of cathode 28. Himalayan country 29. *Track and field star of 1936 Olympics 32. Frozen rain 33. “____ at ease” 36. *He simultaneously played in MLB and NFL 38. Ginger beer in a cocktail, e.g. 40. Pen point 41. Sea in the Mediterranean 44. Yo-Yo Ma’s instrument 46. Talks like a chicken 48. Overfamiliar from overuse 49. Terminate, as in mission 50. Same as eon 51. Shakespeare, a.k.a. ____ of Avon 52. “Ali ____ and the 40 Thieves” 53. *Tinker, Evers and Chance, e.g. 54. Egg-layers 55. Parent volunteer organization 58. Id’s partner
Solution to crossword in next week’s issue of The Chief. Columbia County’s trusted local news source
www.thechiefnews.com
A6
County fair wraps up Planning is already underway for the 2022 Columbia County Fair and Rodeo. The fair wrapped up its 2021 five day run of events, displays and family fun
on Sunday, July 18 in St. Helens. Fair operators said they expect to surpass attendance and profits from the 2019 Fair and Rodeo. The 2020
Friday, July 23, 2021
My Fair Lady Court
events were cancelled due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Specific attendance figures for the 2021 Columbia County Fair and Rodeo were pending.
Courtesy photo
Visitors spent time on the popular carnival rides at the county fair.
Kids and adults enjoyed the swings.
Jeremy C. Ruark / The Chief
The 2021 My Fair Lady Court is now in place after each member was named during a July 14 ceremony at the Columbia County Fair. Lynn Shaw-Hayes was crowned queen at the 32nd annual My Fair Lady Pageant. All the ladies were selected based on their outstanding service to their communities. Pictured left to right is the My Fair Lady Court, Princess Roberta Leuer (St. Helens), Princess Renee Swartz (Clatskanie), Queen Lynn Shaw-Hayes (Vernonia), Princess Rosemary Scandale (Rainier), and Princess Alice Long (Scappoose). The pageant takes place on the first day of the Columbia County Fair and honors senior women for their volunteer work in the community.
Kelli Nicholson / The Chief
Kelli Nicholson / The Chief
A horse and rider scamper across the dirt track during the popular junior rodeo at the county fair.
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