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FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 3, 2021

VOL. 130, NO. 17 Serving the Lower Columbia Region since 1891

Back to school postponed

Jeremy C. Ruark / The Chief

Shields have been placed around desks and large television screens installed at Clatskanie Middle/High School classrooms as part of the health and safety efforts. JEREMY C. RUARK jruark@countrymedia.net

This week, classes were to have been in session for the start of the new school year in the Clatskanie School District but due to the COVID-19 pandemic, classes are postponed until Sept. 13 and possibly longer. “Due to an unprecedented number of COVID positive cases in our students and staff we are going to postpone school until September 13 and possibly the 20 depending on what is happening in our community,” Clatskanie School Superintendent Cathy Hurowitz writes in a message to the district staff, school board and area families. Hurowitz did not immediately

have a number of the students and staff who have the COVID-19 virus. “Some are in quarantine and no one is hospitalized at this time,” she told The Chief, adding that said the district is reviewing options to safely open the schools and also provide additional learning opportunities other than in-person instruction. “Our number one concern is for the health and safety of students and staff,” she said. Hurowitz has also sent out a list of options for student learning during the postponement. See that list with this story at thechiefnews.com. Health and safety steps Hurowitz said the district expects $1.5 million in federal funding support for pandemic health and safety

Jeremy C. Ruark / The Chief

A plexiglass screen has been placed along this desk at the front office of Clatskanie Elementary School. it is similar to the shields placed in classrooms as a health and safety measure.

efforts at the schools. “We have purchased 800 Chromebooks for students so far,” she said. “We have also purchased large television screens that can project up for in-class instruction and if we have kids learning from home.” A percentage of the funding is to support unfinished learning, according to Hurowitz. “We have three years to spend it, so we have hired two elementary teachers so that we can ensure that our classes are small and to get the foundation learning that the students need,” she said. Two additional custodians and additional sanitizing equipment to sanitize classrooms and the school buildings have also been purchased by the district.

Rainier School District Rainier School District Superintendent Joseph Hattrick said his district is receiving $1.8 million, which can be used to address learning loss as well as to address needs arising from the pandemic. In July, the Rainier School District Board approved a complete technology upgrade which includes Chromebooks, televisions, telephones, and other necessary equipment. “The Chromebooks will bring our district to a one-to-one ratio for high school and two students to everyone Chromebook at the elementary level,” Hattrick said. “Other technology will provide flexibility in teaching methods to ensure all students have access to high quality instruction.”

A new virtual learning platform is being established to provide learning options for Rainier students this school year, according to Hattrick. Additional staffing has also been approved to ensure those students who elect the virtual option will have staff support for feedback and grading. “As with last year, we will continue to purchase PPE, cleaning and sanitation supplies, and other necessary health/safety items to ensure a safe return to in-person learning,” Hattrick said. The Rainier School District is also sending out an enrollment survey for those families interested in remaining virtual for this school year. Follow this developing story at thechiefnews.com and in the Friday print editions of The Chief.

Vaccination mandates not likely here

Metro Creative Connection / The Chief

In tight labor markets, employers tend to layer help wanted signs with other efforts such as referral incentives, signing bonuses, posting with online job boards, and working with recruiters outside of their immediate geographical area.

This drive-through COVID-19 vaccination clinic was conducted in June at Clatskanie City Park. JEREMY C. RUARK jruark@countrymedia.net

The City of Portland and Multnomah County are mandating that their public employees be vaccinated to help slow the surges of the COVID-19 pandemic. In the City of Portland’s case, employees can be fired for refusing, according to media reports.

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Would such a vaccination mandate be the next step for the City of Clatskanie and the City of Rainier? Clatskanie City Manager Greg Hinkelman said no. “All but one city employee is vaccinated, and I think the one will be getting his soon,” Hinkelman said and added that Clatskanie continues to encourage people to follow the issued mandates and recommendations. “Get a vaccine,” he said. Rainier City Administrator Scott Jorgensen said his city is not considering such a vaccination mandate. “Staff has not been directed by council to implement such policies,” Jorgensen said. “The city was awarded grant funds to make improvements to city hall that limit the physical interactions be-

Jeremy C. Ruark / The Chief

tween staff and the general public. Citizens should continue to wear masks, engage in social distancing and limit their contact with others if they are sick.” The Columbia County Board of Commissioners have not publicly discussed whether such a vaccination mandate for county employees is necessary. “Columbia County strongly encourages its residents to get vaccinated but has no plans to mandate County employee vaccinations,” Columbia County Public Information Officer Mark Pacheco told The Chief. “Columbia County Commissioners are vigilantly watching the case counts and are determined to keep our community ­­­­ See MANDATE Page A3

Recruiting and retention in a tight labor market GAIL KRUMENAUER Chief Guest Article

Oregon’s economy is continuing to recover and change rapidly. At 16 months past the initial pandemic recession downturn, Oregon regained nearly two out of three jobs lost in spring 2020. In the first six months of 2021, Oregon employers added about the same number of jobs as in the 22 months leading up to the pandemic. For reference- at 16 months into the Great Recession, there had been no recovery at all. The job losses were still mounting. The speed and shape of this economic recovery looks different and has been happening much faster than what we’ve seen in the past.

While many businesses have done a lot of hiring, many others have reported difficulty adding as many workers as they’d like so far in 2021. Their difficulty is made up of two general parts: competition with other employers due to widespread hiring, and a relatively low supply of available workers. Both Oregon and the U.S. saw a record level of job openings in recent months. In Oregon, private businesses reported 98,000 job vacancies at any given time between April and June. That’s nearly 50% higher than ever reported in the eight-year history of the Oregon Job Vacancy Survey. Spring 2021 hiring ­­­­

Phone: 503-397-0116 Fax: 503-397-4093 chiefnews@countrymedia.net 1805 Columbia Blvd., St. Helens, OR 97051

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Friday, September 3, 2021

$167 million for Oregon children Needy Families (TANF) program will receive PEBT food assistance for the summer of 2021. There is no need to apply. If your child has not applied and been approved for free or reduced price meals at school, you can still receive P-EBT food assistance for the summer if you apply online at the Oregon Department of Education website by Sept. 4.

STAFF REPORT chiefnews@countrymedia.net

Oregon has received approval from the federal government to expand the Pandemic EBT (P-EBT) program and provide an additional $167 million in food assistance to approximately 430,000 children in Oregon. Pandemic Electronic Benefit Transfer (P-EBT) is part of the U.S. government response to the COVID-19 pandemic. Current recipients of P-EBT benefits for the 2020 - 2021 school year will automatically receive an additional $389 per child in food assistance that will be received as two payments in September and October. There is no need to apply. Oregon was previously approved to provide approximately $424 million in food benefits to children in Oregon. Combined with the summer expansion of the program, Oregon will provide approximately $591 million in food assistance to children from July through October 2021.

There are two ways children receive benefits

Metro Creative Connection / The Chief

P-EBT provides food benefits to families whose children were eligible for free or reduced priced meals at school or daycare, but did not have access to these free meals because of COVID-19 closures.

P-EBT provides food benefits to families whose children were eligible for free or reduced priced meals at school or daycare, but did not have access to these free meals because of COVID-19 closures.

Eligibility for additional P-EBT food assistance Students eligible to receive P-EBT benefits for the 2020 - 2021 school year will receive additional P-EBT food assistance for

the summer of 2021. There is no need to apply. Children age six or younger whose families participate in the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) or Temporary Assistance for

• If the child’s household currently participates in SNAP or TANF, their P-EBT benefits will be deposited into the household’s EBT account. • Children who already have a P-EBT card will continue to receive food assistance on their current card. • Children new to the P-EBT program whose household does not participate in SNAP or TANF will receive a P-EBT card in the mail at the address on file with their school.

P-EBT cards look different than the Oregon Trail EBT cards issued to SNAP households. Visit pebt.oregon.gov for more information about the P-EBT program. P-EBT does not replace any child nutrition program already offered and families are encouraged to continue to participate in meal programs in their communities. P-EBT is separate from SNAP benefits including emergency allotments that are also being issued due to the impact of COVID-19. Resources to help meet basic needs • Find a food pantry: foodfinder.oregonfoodbank. org • Learn about government programs and community resources for older adults and people with disabilities: Aging and Disability Resource Connection of Oregon at 1-855-673-2372 or www.adrcoforegon.org • Dial 2-1-1, or text your zip code to 898211 (TXT211), www.211info.org

Team suffers loss in alleged crime JEREMY C. RUARK jruark@countrymedia.net

Supporters of the Clatskanie Little League Baseball Team are seeking public help in identifying the suspect or suspects that allegedly broke into the team’s storage shed and got away with all of the team’s sporting gear. The information about the incident first appeared on Facebook Friday night, Aug. 27, stating that the Little League’s storage shed above the snack shack at Jones Field was broken into. “We were robbed, again,” the post reads. “This time instead of stealing our hot dog machine, breaking our microwave, stealing our

sound system they decided to take all of the gear that our baseball players use. Whoever you are, congratulations you just stole from the kids of our community. This is beyond frustrating on so many levels.” As law enforcement searches for the person or persons responsible for the theft, the Facebook post appeals to Clatskanie residents to help by becoming members of the Clatskanie Little League Board of Directors. Currently the board needs a president, secretary, and a snack shack coordinator. “If we don’t get volunteers to fill these positions by November, we will not be able to have a season,” the Facebook post reads. “This

isn’t a scare tactic, it’s just a fact. Our kids deserve baseball. They deserve people stepping up and helping them enjoy a pastime many of us enjoyed during our childhood.” A meeting of the current Clatskanie Little League Board members is scheduled for 6 p.m., Sept. 14 at Clatskanie City Hall, 75 S. Nehalem Street in Clatskanie. Interested members of the public and those wishing to serve on the board are invited to attend. Anyone who might have information about the theft of the Little League’s gear is asked to contact the Columbia County Sheriff’s Office at 503-366-4611.

• 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

ment where she was transported to the Columbia County Jail. She exhibited signs of impairment and performed SFST’s under Rohrs. She refused a breath test and a warrant was obtained. She later provided blood as well as breath samples indicating .24% BAC. She was lodged on Harassment and Attempted Assault II with a weapon and cited and booked for DUII. Aug. 14 • At about 2:27 a.m. OSP responded to a crash on Highway 30 near milepost 38.5. The reporting party located the vehicle over some jersey barriers and fully engulfed in flames with no driver or occupant around. Investigation at the scene revealed the Dodge pickup was traveling westbound when it struck the end of the jersey barrier after leaving the eastbound lane of travel. The vehicle sustained heavy damage as it traveled several hundred feet, coming to rest down an embankment. The driver or any occupant likely suffered injuries but were unable to locate. Additional followup to occur.

Aug. 13 • A citizen reported being flagged down by an lethargic man asking for police help at Collins Beach on the Sauvie island Wildlife Area. A Trooper responded and located the reporting citizen and a man lying in the gravel. The man claimed to have been on the beach for several days with nothing to eat or drink and was suffering from heat stroke and dehydration. AMR responded and transported the individual to Emmanual hospital. His truck was secured at the scene. • At 12:54 p.m. A retail business owner in Columbia County was interviewed by the Oregon State Aug. 27 Police regarding bait purchases • At about 8:20 p.m. OSP he made in May 2021. He Troopers responded to Highypurchased bait shrimp from a way 30 at Wikstrom Road on Commercial Shellfish Harvester a report of a non-injury, two that did not possess the proper vehicle collision. Unit #1 (red wholesale license. The business Dodge) attempted to turn left owner was warned and eduonto Wikstrom Rd from WB Hwy cated to avoid future violations. 30 and failed to yield the right • At 1:33 p.m. OSP came upon of way to Unit #2 (white Ford) what appeared to be a domestic traveling EB on Hwy 30. Unit #2 occurring along the eastbound collided head-on into the passhoulder of Highway 30 near senger side of Unit #1. Unit #1 milepost 24. Subsequent inwas driven from the scene. Unit vestigation revealed a husband #2 was not driveable and towed and wife were involved in a fight from the scene. inside their vehicle as it traveled westbound on Highway 30. Aug. 28 The husband sustained minor • At about 4:57 p.m. OSP injuries as a result. It was deterreceived a report from an ODFW mined there was a no contact fish checker at the Rainier Boat order between the pair with the Ramp along the Columbia River husband listed as the protected regarding a fisherman who had party. Additionally, the husband come in with a native coho and wife had earlier been driving salmon. The man stated he did separate vehicles when the wife not realize it had an adipose fin drove into the back of the veand that it was a coho. The man hicle operated by the husband. was issued a citation for take/ Wife was arrested for Harasspossession of non-adipose fin Columbia County’s trusted local news source

Metro Creative Connection / The Chief

The Clatskanie Little League Baseball Team suffered a setback after an alleged theft of the teams equipment.

•B lotter • •

clipped coho salmon and the fish was seized for donation. Scappoose Police Aug. 9 • Police were dispatched to the report of a suspicious person in the 33000 block of SW Havlik Drive. Following the investigation, a 35-year-old Portland man was taken into custody for Criminal Mischief III and Disorderly Conduct II and was transported and lodged in the jail. Aug. 12 • Police were dispatched to a suspicious circumstance in the 34000 N. Honeyman Road. A 39-year-old Scappoose man was later arrested for an outstanding misdemeanor warrant. He was cited and released. Aug. 14 • Police were dispatched to a non-injury accident in the 52000 block of Columbia River Highway. It was reported that the driver was possibly intoxicated. Following the investigation, a 53-year-old St. Helens woman was taken into custody for DUII– Drugs. She was transported to and lodged in jail. Aug. 15 • Police took a report of a possible theft and a break in of a vehicle parked in the 51000 block of SE 2nd Street. The victim reported that while parked in the area, an unknown suspect broke into their car and rummaged through. This case is suspended due to lack of suspect information.

in the Scappoose area. This case is pending further investigation and suspect information. • Police investigated the report of a domestic in the 51000 block of SW Rembrandt Street. Following the investigation, A 41-year-old Scappoose resident was taken into custody for Assault IV–DV. She was transported to and lodged in jail. Aug. 19 • Police responded to a noninjury motor vehicle accident near the intersection of Columbia River Highway and SE High School Way. No citations were issued. The vehicles and all parties involved cleared the scene after exchanging information. Aug. 20 • Following the report of a disturbance in the 52000 block of NE 1st Street, 61-year-old male from Kelso was taken into custody for an outstanding warrant

out of Clatsop County Circuit Court. The male was cited and released on his warrant. Aug. 24 • Police took a report of a vehicle being broken into in the Fred Meyer parking lot. It was reported that the vehicles window was smashed and items were stolen from the inside. This case is pending further investigation and suspect identification. Aug. 25 • Police were dispatched to the report of a domestic in the 52000 block of NE 1st Street. Following the investigation, a 54-year -old male resident of Scappoose was taken into custody for Harassment–DV and was transported to and lodged in jail. • Police responded to the report of a stolen vehicle in the 52000 block of Columbia River

Highway. The victim reported that her vehicle was stolen in front of her. She stated that she saw an unknown suspect drive away in the vehicle. The victim also stated that she owned the vehicle and no one had permission to drive it. This case is pending further investigation and suspect identification. Aug. 27 • Police were dispatched to the report of a vehicle being broken into in the 33000 block of SE High School Way. The victim reported that sometime during the evening, an unknown person broke the rear passenger window of their vehicle and stolen items from the inside of the car. This case is pending further investigation. The St. Helens Police, Rainier Police and Columbia County Sheriff’s reports were unavailable at press time.

At Clatskanie City Park

Aug. 16 • Police were dispatched to the report of a theft of a catalytic converter in the area of West Lane Road and NE Porter Lane. This case is suspended due to lack of suspect information. Aug. 17 • Police took a report of a fraud that occurred in the 52000 block of Columbia River Highway. The victim reported that his vehicle was broken into in Portland, however his debit card was used

All attending must wear masks and please bring your own chairs. CLATSKANIE ARTS COMMISSION FUNDRAISER Brought to you by a generous donation from Donna Garlock

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$1.9 Billion in kicker refund credits JEREMY C. RUARK jruark@countrymedia.net

Oregon taxpayers are in line to receive a $1.9 billion kicker refund credit in the coming months. The kicker occurs if actual state revenues exceed forecasted revenues by 2 percent or more over the twoyear budget cycle. The excess, including the 2 percent trigger amount, is returned to taxpayers through a credit on their following year’s tax return, according to the Oregon Revenue Department. The following is the summary of the Oregon Revenue Forecast presented to state lawmakers Wednesday, Aug. 25. “The economic outlook remains bright. “Strong household incomes, boosted considerably by federal aid during the pandemic, are the underlying driver. Consumers have no shortage of firepower if they want to and feel safe enough to spend. “The key to the outlook remains translating this firepower into actual consumer spending, particularly in the hard-hit service industries. Firms today are trying to staff up as quickly as possible to meet this increasing demand. The actual number of jobs created this year will be the largest on record in Oregon. The state’s labor market is now expected to regain all of its lost jobs by next summer, or one quarter sooner than in the previous forecast. While these dynamics remain intact, the risks are weighted toward the downside. “Growth in a supplyconstrained economy is

challenging. Firms are struggling with supply chains and a tight labor market. Wages are rising quickly to attract and retain workers. Prices are increasing as demand continues to outstrip supply. On top of this the current Delta wave of the pandemic complicates the immediate term outlook. What matters most economically are shutdowns. A modest pullback in consumer spending in a few categories will not lead to mass layoffs. “If anything, any slowing in spending today will likely turn into stronger gains in coming quarters. This cycle is different. The current recovery will be faster, more complete, and more inclusive than recent experiences coming out of the tech and housing bubbles. As some of the pandemic-specific challenges fade, the underlying economy is on solid footing due to the strength of corporate and household balance sheets. In September of odd-numbered years, the revenue forecast closes out the biennium than ended on June 30th. “At this time, the close of session forecast is calculated by folding any tax law changes made during the legislative session into the May 2021 outlook. This sets the bar for Oregon’s balanced budget requirement and its unique kicker law. Changes to tax law were relatively small in the 2021 session, with a net revenue impact of -$3.6 million to General Fund resources in the 202123 budget period. “The September forecast also reveals where revenues landed in the prior budget period. In a typical year, there are few surprises, since

Metro Creative Connection / The Chief

The median taxpayer can expect to receive a credit of $420, while the average is estimated to be $850, according to the latest state revenue forecast summary.

tax collections are relatively small during the early summer. This year was different. Due to a delayed tax filing deadline, much uncertainty remained following the May forecast. When the forecast was developed, the peak tax season had just begun. “By the end of the fiscal year, the 2021 tax season turned out to be a very big one. Collections of personal income taxes, corporate income taxes, lottery sales and the new Corporate Activity Tax all surged. Recent withholdings of personal income taxes are up 17% relative to last year. Payments during the tax season were strong as well, led by collections from high-income taxpayers. A $1.9 billion personal income tax kicker credit is slated for tax year 2021. “The median taxpayer can expect to receive a credit

of $420, while the average is estimated to be $850. The strong revenue growth seen during the 2019-21 biennium put a cap on a decade of unprecedented expansion in Oregon’s General Fund revenues. “Over the past decade, General Fund revenues have almost doubled from around $12 billion per year to around $24 billion. Over the decade as a whole, kicker payments amounted to $2.6 billion, reducing cumulative General Fund resources by 2.6 percent. Last biennium, kicker payments took away half of the General Fund growth. Looking forward, the current $1.9 billion kicker reduces 2021-23 revenues as well.” Reaction Governor Kate Brown said the revenue forecast is another sign that Oregon’s economy is healthy, strong, and on the path for a rapid recovery. “This is welcome news at a time that Oregonians continue to face immense challenges: from wildfire recovery to extreme drought to our worst surge of cases and hospitalizations during the COVID-19 pandemic,” Brown said. “And we must never lose sight of the fact that, because of historic, structural inequities, the impacts of the pandemic and the natural disasters of the past year and a half have disproportionately impacted Black, Indigenous, Latino, Latina, Latinx, Asian, Pacific Islander, and Tribal communities the hardest. Brown said her priority will be to continue to address

the challenges facing Oregon families, including what she called the disparities resulting from systemic racism, with a particular focus on ensuring Oregon’s hospitals and health care workers have the resources they need to continue to provide patients with life-saving care. Senate President Peter Courtney said the revenue forecast shows that the state’s economy remains strong. “We have more money to invest in pandemic relief, childcare and housing,” Courtney said. “We’re still in a crisis.” The Legislature will help out Oregonians who’ve hurt the most. I look forward to doing this as fast as we can.” “The stable outlook of today’s revenue forecast is welcome news coming off a legislative session where we invested strongly in programs to help Oregonians impacted by the pandemic, wildfires, the housing crisis and other challenges,” Oregon House Speaker Tina Kotek said. “We need to maintain this momentum to build a better future for everyone.” Kotek said the state’s stable forecast is also a reminder that Oregon’s economic recovery is linked to the state’s ability to control the COVID-19 virus. “Our hospital systems are on the verge of collapse in this moment. With 1,000 Oregonians hospitalized due to COVID-19, there is still too much suffering across the state,” Kotek said. “We will maintain our economic recovery if we all commit to protecting each other from the Delta variant.” Oregon Senate Republi-

cans also released a statement saying the revenue forecast confirmed that Oregon taxpayers will receive a $1.9 billion kicker and the corporate kicker will send an additional $850 million to K-12 schools. The state budget will also have an ending fund balance of $699 million. “It’s clear that Democrats raided $15 million from the kicker for no good reason,” the Oregon Senate Republican release states. “Unprecedented deficit stimulus spending by the federal government and Oregonians stepping up to support businesses during the Governor’s shutdowns has given the state excess money.” The Oregon Senate Republicans said the legislature now has money to invest in COVID and wildfire response and recovery and preparing for upcoming unknown expenses in the next biennium. “Most importantly, our kids need to be in school fulltime to get caught up after a year of learning loss,” the Oregon Senate Republicans stated. “This money can help our kids recover.” Background The Oregon Economic Forecast provides information to planners and policy makers in state agencies and private organizations for use in their decision making processes. The Oregon Revenue Forecast opens the revenue forecasting process to public review. It is the basis for much of the budgeting in state government. The forecast reports are issued four times a year: March, June, September, and December.

Rabies infected bat found in Clatskanie STAFF REPORT chiefnews@countrymedia.net

A bat found in Clatskanie has tested positive for rabies, according to Columbia County Public Health and Oregon Health officials, who had the bat tested at Oregon State University’s Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory. A local resident found the bat during the day on Wednesday, Aug. 4. Approximately 8% of the bats found every year in Oregon test positive for rabies. According to health officials, eight of the rabies-infected bats have been found this year across Oregon. “People can take two precautions to protect themselves and their pets from bats and rabies,” Oregon Health Authority’s Dr. Emilio DeBess said. “Never handle bats, and make sure your cats and dogs are up to date on their rabies vaccines.” DeBess said bats often carry rabies. “If you find a bat during the daylight hours, it is probably not healthy and should be avoided,” he said.

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healthy.” Columbia County Commissioners, the Public Health Department, and local partners have taken various actions to address the spread of the COVID-19 virus, according to Pacheco. The range of actions include: • Instituting building safety measures such as installing clear acrylic partitions and encouraging social distancing. • Several County departments have moved to an appointment-driven service model. • Complying with the state-wide mask mandate. • Maintaining active communications with health care professionals. • Establishing vaccination and testing sites. • Administering a program to provide vaccinations at places of business. • Providing home visit vaccinations and transportation to testing and vaccination sites for those who require it. • Managing contact tracing programs.

What you need to know about rabies The following information comes from Columbia County Public Health and the Oregon Health Authority. Rabies is a viral disease of mammals that attacks an infected animal’s nervous system. Rabies symptoms in wildlife, particularly foxes and raccoons, include lethargy, walking in circles, loss of muscular coordination, convulsions, irritability or aggressiveness, disorientation, excessive drooling of saliva, and showing no fear of humans. While bats play a valuable role in nature, health officials urge people to stay away from bats and not handle them. Sick bats may be seen flopping around on the ground or otherwise acting unusual. If you find a sick bat or other sick wildlife on your property, take children and pets indoors and do not handle the bats without protection. Use a disposable container with a lid to scoop the animal into the containers and dispose of it in the trash. If a bat has had contact with a • Performing extensive awareness outreach in the form of social media, billboards, print, and radio; as well as attending many public events and festivals to provide information and vaccinations. • Operating the VaxMobile, an SUV wrapped with vaccination advertising, which is used for county business and in local parades. • Providing access to quarantine living for those who need it. • Ensuring continued outreach to the Columbia County community. “The priorities of the Columbia County Board of Commissioners continue to be maintaining a positive line of communication with the community, protecting public health and economic security, and providing reliable access to vaccinations and current information,” Pacheco said. “We ask that everyone be safe, treat each other with civility and respect, and make responsible decisions as we continue to navigate through the pandemic.” State and local health officials said the steady, sharp rise in COVID-19 cases are primarily among those people who have not been vaccinated.

human or an animal, call your local health department for guidance. Typically, animals acquire rabies by eating or coming in contact with a rabid bat. Very few bats in Oregon have rabies and rabies in other wildlife is even rarer. However, if you know your pet has encountered a bat or been bitten by a wild animal, contact your veterinarian immediately. Public Heath recommends: • Vaccinate your pets (dogs and cats) against rabies. • Watch wildlife from a distance. Don’t approach or attempt to handle wild animals. • Do not feed wild animals. • Keep garbage in secure containers and away from wildlife. • Feed pets indoors. • Seal openings in attics, basements, porches, sheds, barns, and screen chimneys that might provide access to bats and other wildlife. For more information, call Columbia County Public Health at 503-397-7247. By the numbers The Oregon Health Authority (OHA) COVID-19 Weekly Report, released Sept. 1, shows continued increases in daily cases, hospitalizations and deaths. OHA reported 16,252 new cases of COVID-19 during the week of Monday, Aug. 23 through Sunday, Aug. 29. That represents a 10% increase over the previous week and the eighth consecutive week of increases. There were 1,000 new COVID-19 hospitalizations, up from 601 last week. That also marked the eighth consecutive week of increases. There were 119 reported COVID-19 related deaths, up from 87 reported the previous week and the highest weekly death toll since January 2021. There were 160,605 tests for COVID-19 for the week of Aug. 22 through Aug. 28. The percentage of positive tests increased to 12.4%. Free COVID-19 vaccinations are available at most pharmacies and health care clinics. Follow new developments at thechiefnews.com and in the Friday print versions of The Chief. Columbia County’s trusted local news source

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A shot in the arm for small business BRETT WESNER Chief Guest Column

A little-noticed initiative by Sen. Maria Cantwell, D-WA, Sen. Ron Wyden, D-OR and five other senators would boost local jobs, accelerate sales and improve economies. The Local Journalism Sustainability Act, S. 2434, is designed to help local news media support their newsgathering missions. One provision goes far beyond offering aid to community newspapers, local news websites and other news- gatherers. It would help small businesses to dig out of the economic doldrums by supporting their advertising costs in local news outlets, which in turn will help publishers and broadcasters to hire journalists. This provision would permit small businesses to claim a tax credit for a portion of their advertising purchases up to $5,000 a year. Credits would remain, but in declining amounts, for five years. The legislation, originally introduced in similar form by Reps. Ann Kirkpatrick, D-AZ, and Dan Newhouse, R- WA, would also help subscribers by providing

them with a refundable tax credit up to $250 a year. It provides financial support for hiring as well, assisting news organizations with journalists’ salaries. It is the advertising tax credit that is the unsung hero of this legislation. Like a pebble tossed into the pond of local economies, it will show the ripple effect of benefits in local jobs, enhanced spending, revenues to run local governments and a boost to get American small businesses back in the game after a very tough couple of years. Every dollar of advertising spending generates $8.77 in sales, according to a 2010 study by IHS Global Insight, a firm that periodically measures advertising’s impact on economies. Advertising is directly responsible for about 20 percent of the American economy by directly generating jobs in media sales, creation of materials and collateral work but it does far more by juicing activity in other businesses. No surprise to anyone on Main Street: after the 2008 recession small businesses cut way back on their advertising campaigns,

• A privilege to attend Last Saturday evening I had the opportunity to attend the HOPE & Turning Point community picnic and benefit auction – my first such event since joining Columbia Economic Team, due to COVID. I was able to see and meet many people I know only from Zooms, and they were making great things happen in person. The sincere commitment by everyone involved for supporting these organizations…and by extension… neighbors in need throughout the Clatskanie and Rainier communities, was overwhelming to me. Over many years I’ve been involved in some social service benefit auctions much larger than this one, but the Community Picnic stands head and shoulders above those for the warm community feel and the selfless generosity of everyone there. I was proud that a number of my own Board and organization members were

dropping from their normal 3-5 percent annual increases to a stunning 6 percent cut in 2009. It is too soon to know what the COVID-19 pandemic has done to this spending, but it would be no great revelation to learn that the cuts equaled or exceeded those following the Great Recession. Expense cuts are what businesses do to stay afloat. But when they are ready to climb back into the cockpit for a new takeoff, the spending needs to accelerate rapidly. Cash-strapped businesses may be in no position to fuel their journey though. That is why a little boost in the form of the Cantwell tax credit would be so timely. If the economy behaves as it usually does after economic retraction, the new spending will generate more sales and the public coffers will refill. The bill’s benefits end after five years but the growth it generates will pay off for decades.

Paul Vogel Executive Director Columbia Economic Team

I limit my activities Over 26,000 vehicles per day commute from or pass thru Columbia County on each work day of which 73% exceed the basic rule, speeding, and 36% have burnt out

Do you believe wearing a face covering and getting a vaccine will help slow the COVID-19 pandemic surges?

Yes

Brett Wesner is chair of the National Newspaper Association, a community newspaper organization and President of Wesner Publications, Cordell, OK.

•V oices

present, right in the thick of bidding and fundraising, not the least of which is Clatskanie PUD, whose staff team was the engine for much of the night --- and as volunteer board members for both HOPE and Turning Point day in and day out. But they were also surrounding by so many community members and companies really determined to make the evening a success – and ensure that the communities can help feed and assist those in need. A great evening, a great purpose, vital work, and a privilege to attend. Sincerely,

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of the

lights, bald or improper tires, fail to stop at stop signs or yellow lights and talk on cell phones while holding them in their hands. And in addition, there are occasional accidents, robberies and shoplifting keeping our local city, county and state law enforcement officers on their toes. Much to the dismay of many of those who wrote their disapproval of Sheriff Pixley’s open letter to Governor Brown, COVID mandates are administrative rules administered under the authority of OSHA. They allow business owners and employees to refuse service and or access to places of business to those who are not vaccinated or who are not wearing a mask. If these individuals become violent or spit on the owners/employers then they may call for law enforcement for assistance in which these individuals can be charged with criminal trespass or civil disturbance. Having had numerous surgeries, it is extremely difficult for me to breathe with a mask on so I limit my activities to meet Governor Brown’s man-

No

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C ommunity • •

dates; and yes it is upsetting to see unmasked people acting carefree and enjoying life but it is a free country, or was. Joseph Turner Columbia City

No wonder my head aches I read that our sheriff is announcing which declarations and laws he is not going to enforce. Apparently, he has not noticed that in Columbia County the number of Covid cases and deaths is escalating astronomically, coincidentally increasing in other areas of the country where vaccination rates are abysmally low. Many of us have assumed a degree of responsibility for everyone which seems prudent and wise. The sheriff chooses to ignore the old adage – an ounce of prevention. Surely the law enforcement agency of Oregon must become involved and investigate this grievous abdication of responsibility. The egregious action must be challenged and the sheriff cited

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

for malfeasance or relieved from duty (before the next election). Then in a subsequent article, it is revealed that one of our Columbia County Commissioners has a similar skeptical view when Tillamook and Josephine Counties have requested refrigerated trucks to hold bodies since the mortuaries are overwhelmed. Although the rate of vaccinations is only 53% in Josephine County, the Commissioners, there, are not promoting the vaccine, unlike Tillamook. Furthermore, this writer appreciates the enlightened position of the other two Columbia County Commissioners, Magruder and Heimuller. Paul Nys Rainier

Deeply disappointed In regards to Sheriff Pixley’s letter to Gov. Brown refusing to enforce public health mandates, I’d like to remind him of the Oregon Sheriff’s Code of Ethics

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which requires him to “...develop self-restraint and be constantly mindful of the welfare of others.” and “... be exemplary in obeying the laws of the land and the regulations of my office.” Unfortunately, Sheriff Pixley has shown that he is willing to abandon the greater good of the community in favor of his personal biases. He is not a medical or public health expert yet he professes to speak on behalf of the citizens of Columbia County when it comes to mask and vaccine mandates and he is certainly not qualified to do so. These are not difficult measures for the majority of us to follow and many, many of us are more than willing to do what it takes to protect the health of the larger community. I am deeply disappointed in Sheriff Pixley’s leadership and as a committed voter in this county I will be looking forward to the next opportunity to vote for a new sheriff. Tonia Peckover Scappoose

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Editorial policy Opinions expressed on this page are independent of The Chief views and are solely those of the writers expressing them. 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.

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

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Friday, September 3, 2021

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IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE STATE OF IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE STATE OF OREGON FOR THE COUNTY OF COLUMBIA OREGON FOR THE COUNTY OF COLUMBIA Probate Department In the Matter of the Estate of MARY LUCY SANDAHL, Deceased. No. 21PB06699 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 September 3, 2021. Stephanie Cox, Personal Representative. STEPHEN D. PETERSEN, L.L.C. Attorney at Law, P.O. Box 459, Rainier, OR 97048.

Probate Department In the Matter of the Estate of VIRGIL DON WRIDGE, JR., Deceased. No. 21PB06119 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 August 20, 2021. Ronald Steven Wridge, Personal Representative. STEPHEN D. PETERSEN, L.L.C. Attorney at Law, P.O. Box 459, Rainier, OR 97048.

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Friday, September 3, 2021

Middle/High School sports following ‘strict’ policies Saturday Sept. 4 • High School Cross Country at the Ultimook Race Start 10 a.m. Monday Sept. 6 • First Middle School Sports Practices 4:15 p.m. - 5:45 p.m. Cross Country (CMHS Track), Football (CMHS Baseball Field), and Volleyball (CMHS Upper Gym)

Jeremy C. Ruark / The Chief

Conditioning and stretching are part of the basics during the Clatskanie Middle/High School varsity football team’s drills as seen in this photo from the team’s abbreviated season last spring. STAFF REPORT chiefnews@countrymedia.net

Although the Clatskanie School District has postponed its first day of school until Sept. 13, due to increased COVID cases in students and staff, the district’s current high school athletic programs, games and practice schedules will continue during this school postponement. “We will strictly adhere to all of the Oregon Health Authority (OHA) and Oregon School Activities Association (OSAA) health and safety guidelines.” Clatskanie Middle/High School (CMHS) Athletic Director Ryan

Tompkins said. “We will be postponing middle sports first practices until Monday September 6.” Tompkins released the following current safety protocols in place (subject to change) for athletic programs within the Clatskanie School District: • Student/athletes must wear masks while not actively practicing/competing in their sport. • Coaches, spectators and sideline personnel are required to wear a mask at all times. • Masks must be worn at all times while riding on buses/district transportation. • Masks are not required

while actively eating/drinking (please social distance to ensure the safety of others). • All spectators must sign in for contact tracing while attending CMHS events. • Please stay home if you are symptomatic or have been recently exposed to COVID. • There are no occupancy restrictions for home contests, but we ask that spectators socially distance themselves from other spectators that are not part of their household/family.

Tuesday Sept. 7 • High School Girls Soccer vs. Ilwaco: 6 p.m. @ Clatskanie City Park Wednesday Sept. 8 • High School Cross Country at the Horizon Christian 4 p.m. Thursday Sept. 9 • High School Volleyball vs. Seaside 5 p.m. (JV) 6:30 p.m. (V) Friday Sept. 10 • High School Football vs. Taft 7 p.m.

Clatskanie School District sports schedule

Saturday Sept. 11 • High School Cross Country at Teevin Ranch 10 a.m.

Friday Sept. 3 • High School Football vs. Dayton 7 p.m.

For more information, call Clatskanie Middle/High School at 503-728-2146.

LABOR From Page A1

demand was reported in all sectors of Oregon’s economy, and across more than 240 different types of occupations. That record hiring demand also comes at a time when there’s a relatively low available workforce. Oregon’s unemployment rate was 5.6% in June. That’s relatively low by historical standards; the long-run unemployment rate has been 6.8% in Oregon. There are also still many people, not counted among the unemployed, with barriers keeping them from going back to work or taking a job. There were 32,500 Oregonians between April and June who indicated a COVIDrelated issue prevented them from looking for work. That could include people with their own underlying health conditions, or those parents without child care options or unable to work until fully inperson school returns. While this trend improved from about 65,800 in fall 2020, the recent rise of the COVID-19 Delta variant creates ongoing concerns. Taken together, the strong hiring, relatively low unemployment, and barriers keeping some workers on the sidelines has created a tight labor market. Employers have responded to tight labor market conditions in a number of ways.

Benefits and perks Not every employer can raise wages. Some have found other ways to recruit and retain talent. The labor market was also tight prior to the pandemic. In 2018, the Employment Department surveyed private employers to ask about the benefits they offered employees. Three out of five offered health benefits, and half offered retirement benefits. One out of 10 of employers offering health insurance, and one out of five offering retirement benefits, cited worker hiring and retention advantages related to those offerings. Half of Oregon’s private firms offered paid holidays, and half offered paid vacation days. One-third offered at least one of the follow-

•O bituaries • • Paul John Pellham

Feb. 5, 1949 ~ Aug. 3, 2021 Paul John Pellham, age 72, of Rainier, was called home on Tuesday, August 3, 2021 surrounded by family. He was born on Feb. 5, 1949, to Salvatora and Therman Pellham of Rainier, Oregon. He married Jackie Keene in 1969, divorced in 1972 and later married Nancy Blunk in 1973, divorced in 1997. He served in the Army 1968 to 1974 during the Vietnam War. Paul is survived by his children, John Pellham, Karen (Ken) Patterson, Jamie (Michelle) Pellham and Justin (Shelia) Pellham; brothers, Donald, Frank, Allen, James, and Mark; sisters, Doris Ann, Rose Mary and Elizabeth; 15 grandchildren; 13 great grandchildren; and numerous nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his father Therman; mother Salvatora; brothers, Therman Jr., and Richard; and sisters, Margaret and Rose Marie.

Paul graduated from Rainier in 1967. He loved cooking, being outdoors, gardening, working in his flower beds and trips to the beach. He also enjoyed spending time with his family. He was a member of the Rainier Eagles. A celebration of life will be held at 11 a.m. on Sept. 11, 2021 at the Alston Corner Assembly of God, 25272 Alston Rd., Rainier, OR 97048, with a potluck to follow.

Philip Dean Katon

Oct. 11, 1979 ~ Aug. 28, 2021 Philip Dean Katon, a resident of Clatskanie, Oregon, passed away on Aug. 28, 2021. His celebration of life will be held at 2 p.m. on Sept. 12, 2021 on the Clatskanie High School football field, located at the end of SW Canyon Rd. in Clatskanie. There will be time for people to speak if they wish or you can provide a printed statement to the pastor before the service and he will read it aloud for you. Anyone wishing to send memorial flowers can send ETERSEN LARKELLC LLC ETERSEN LARKE them to the football field on the day of the service by AA1tt tt oo rr nn ee yy ss p.m.

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Wages For one, employers have raised wages. Real (or inflation-adjusted) average starting wages rose by more than 2% in Oregon over the past year. Businesses have raised their wages for existing workers too. Real average hourly earnings for all workers also rose by more than 2% compared to the prerecession level in February 2020.

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Community Action Team

Relaxing experience requirements When the labor market has been tight in recent years, some employers have loosened their previous work experience requirements. In spring 2021, about half (53%) of all job vacancies required previous work experience. Nearly 19,000 of the 98,000 job openings this spring required less than one year of prior experience. The largest number of these job openings requiring less than one year of experience were for restaurant servers, retail sales staff, nursing assistants, restaurant cooks, and food prep workers. When it doesn’t pose a safety risk, and employers are able to, loosening previous experience requirements can increase the number of people who qualify for their job openings.

Are you a veteran?

You may be entitled to benefits for serving your country.

Contact your Veteran Service Officer • 503-366-6580 Call CAT at (503)397-3511 to find out if you qualify. Rental and energy assistance applications are available at 125 N. 17th St., St. Helens, OR. Also available on our website at www.CAT-TEAM.org

Recruitment intensity In tight labor markets, employers tend to layer help wanted signs with other efforts such as referral incentives, signing bonuses, posting with online job boards, and working with recruiters outside of their immediate geographical area. This includes listing job openings with WorkSource Oregon, where tens of thousands of workers have been registering

in the job matching system. Any layering employers can do with their hiring and retention strategies can help them find and keep more workers in a tight labor market. Gail Krumenauer is an economist with the Oregon Employment Department. She may be reached at 800262-3912 ext 71268, or at gail.k.krumenauer@oregon. gov.

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