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FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 10, 2021

VOL. 130, NO. 18 Serving the Lower Columbia Region since 1891

COVID slowing, still ‘very dangerous, unpredictable’ JEREMY C. RUARK jruark@countrymedia.net

Oregon health officials are confirming that the latest modeling shows COVID-19 cases are slowing.

“But we can’t rest on our laurels,” Oregon Epidemiologist Dr. Dean Sidelinger said. “This is not an on-off fix. It’s a dimmer fix.

We need to be prepared if COVID reemerges. Whether it’s the current Delta variant or future variants that may not even be known yet. They could come back with a vengeance.”

What’s next?

Sidelinger, commented during a Tuesday, Sept. 7 news briefing with Gov. Kate Brown, and said while the new modeling offers some encouragement, some people are taking less precautions and he stressed that the unvaccinated need to be vaccinated and wearing face coverings in public buildings and outside when among crowds will be key to slowing the pandemic in the weeks ahead.

“This is a crisis that is largely being driven by people that are not vaccinated against COVID-19,” Slidelinger said. “The decisions we make over the next few weeks will determine if we plunge further into this crisis.”

Gov. Kate Brown said because more Oregonians are masking up and continuing to get vaccinated, the projected length of the latest surge has been cut. However, she said, there are still challenging times ahead.

“And we must remain vigilant,” Brown said. “Every action you take impacts how this plays out. Every time you mask up you’re helping our doctors and nurses do their jobs.

Metro Creative Connection / The Chief

The latest modeling shows COVID-19 cases in Oregon are slowing, but Gov. Brown and state health officials caution that the latest surges are largely among those who are not vaccinated.

Every time you mask up, you’re helping our kids return to school more safely. And every time you mask up you’re helping keep our businesses and communities open.”

Brown said COVID-19 is still “very dangerous and unpredictable,” and that new federal research confirms that the COVID-19 vaccines are safe and effective.

Oregon Department of Education (ODE) Colt Gill told reporters the pandemic health and safety protocols now in place will help ensure in-person learning will continue through the entire school year.

“The protocols we have in place with the state’s guidance of masking and vaccinations we really do a lot to make sure COVID doesn’t start in our schools,” he said, adding that everyone has a responsibility to help keep kids in school by getting vaccinated, wearing masks and limiting large gatherings.

ODE advisory For families with children heading back to the classroom, Gill said the ODE has released the following five straightforward

back-to-school tips: • Make a plan to vaccinate all eligible household members • Wear a face covering in public and in carpools • Limit gatherings with other households • Move any social activities outside • Make a plan in case your child needs to miss school

in effect statewide Sept. 7 – Oct. 1, unless otherwise updated: 1) All eligible youth and adults who come in contact with schoolage children should vaccinate to reduce spread in the school community.

2) Families with school-age children and educators should limit gatherings and non-essential activities with people from other households to the extent possible. If you are visiting people from another household, you should wear a mask, maintain a physical distance of 6 feet, and keep activities outdoors as much as possible.

3) To the extent possible, schools and other organizations should reduce extracurricular activities and consider holding activities, such as meals, recess, physical education classes, music and choir, outdoors to maximize physical distancing.

Likewise, if schools and other organizations proceed with extracurricular activities, they should consider holding them outdoors and implementing additional precautions like face coverings and physical distancing.

4) Schools should hold beginning of the year family events (open houses, meet the teacher nights, etc.) online, rather than in-person.

If events are held in-person, ensure all participants wear masks, hold the events outside, and maintain physical distancing of 6 feet to the degree possible.

5) Families should check your school’s website or ODE’s Ready Schools, Safe Learners website to review your school’s Safe Return to In-Person Instruction and Continuity of Services Plan.

Oregon Health Authority (OHA) and ODE have issued the following School Health Advisory, to remain ­­­­

See COVID-19 Page A6

Riding with the Marine Patrol JEREMY C. RUARK jruark@countrymedia.net

Courtesy photo

Sourdough and Armstrong have performed in Clatskanie during the Clatskanie Arts Commission’s musical series. The series is resuming following last year’s cancellations and rescheduling.

Local performing arts tradition returns JEREMY C. RUARK jruark@countrymedia.net

The Clatskanie Arts Commission’s (CAC) Performing Arts series is returning with a host of musical events planned following last year’s cancellation and rescheduling due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

The series kicked off on Labor Day with a free concert with the North Coast Big Band sponsored at Clatskanie City Park by Donna Garlock.

The Fernhill Bluegrass

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Band with the Bloomer Family is set to perform at 3 p.m. Sunday Sept. 19 followed by five other concerts. All of the concerts are being held at the Birkenfeld Theatre in the Clatskanie Cultural Center, 75 S. Nehalem Street in Clatskanie. See the scheduled attached.

Trying 18 months “The past 18 months have been trying for not only performers but also venues such as ours which were required to close their doors during the COVID pandemic,” A Clatskanie Arts Commission founding member and the current secretary/treasurer Elsa Wooley said. “When things improved in early spring/summer, 2021and we were allowed to open our doors once again, we decided to take a leap of faith and book our 32nd season. All of our ticket holders were ­­­­ See EVENTS Page A6

With continued warm, clear weather in the forecast ahead for the region, the Columbia County Sheriff’s Office Marine Patrol deputies are busy along the Columbia River.

The Chief was invited to ride along with the deputies as they conducted a recent Columbia River patrol.

Deputies noted a surge of boaters during the pandemic and once health and safety restrictions were lifted that surge has been steady over the past year.

“Our marine deputies are seeing a definite increase of boating activity,” Lt. Shaun McQuiddy said, adding that the most common violations made by boaters include safety equipment, navigational, and registration type violations.

“If a boater is cited, the fines it can range from $110 to $440 or in case of a criminal charge, such as Boating Under the Influence, the fine amount that could be imposed is up to $5,000,” he said.

But McQuiddy added that the marine patrol’s primary function is education.

“We talk with thousands of people on the water throughout the year promoting safety and we also can teach classes about water and boater safety to kids and interested boating groups,” he said.

McQuiddy emphasizes that boaters need to be prepared for the dangerous areas of the Columbia River. He said during the summer, one of the most dangerous areas are the densely populated areas near Sauvie Island and Sand Island.

“In these densely populated areas, operators need to be on alert and cautious as they are operating boats in close proximity to others,” he said. “Most importantly, boaters need to know and be aware of the waterways and the hazards that may be there. As a boater you need to

Jeremy C. Ruark/ The Chief

Columbia County Sheriff Brian Pixley watches as the marine patrol passes a nearby tug along the Columbia River.

know how the tide affects the water, know the current, and other known hazards above and below the water.”

Just by a deputy being on the river every day, it saves someone’s life. ~ Brian Pixley, Columbia County Sheriff

The Columbia County Marine Patrol is funded though the Oregon Marine Board.

Columbia County received $217,469 for the current fiscal year (2021-2022) and for the next fiscal year as well (2022-2023), according to Oregon Marine Board Boating Safety Manager / Boating Law Administrator Randy Henry, who

said the funding is dedicated to marine law enforcement and related activities, such as program administration.

“In our annual contract with Columbia County, they agree to patrol 12 specific waterways within the county and to enforce recreational boating laws on these waterways,” Henry said. “They also assist in hazard mitigation (trees across rivers), abandoned and derelict vessels, maintaining their patrol boats, conducting communication and education, responding to and investigating marine incidents (accidents), inspect boats, and inspect boat rental companies.”

Henry said the state funds specifically pay for personnel and many training-related costs, boat maintenance and some equipment.

Oregon’s funding is entirely provided by recreational boaters – the ­­­­

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

ColumbiaCountyOR.Gov/Vaccine | 503-397-7247

See PATROL Page A6

www.thechiefnews.com

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Friday, September 10, 2021

First day of school Sept. 13 JEREMY C. RUARK jruark@countrymedia.net

It is back to class for Clatskanie School District students.

“We are planning to start classes on Monday, September 13th,” Clatskanie School District Superintendent Cathy Hurowitz said. “Our numbers of COVID cases have taken a slight dip.”

The first week of school was scheduled to begin Aug. 30, but the COVID-19 pandemic and its impact on students and school staff forced classes to be postponed.

“Due to an unprecedented number of COVID positive cases in our students and staff we are going to postpone school until September 13th and possibly the 20th depending on what is happening in our community,” Hurowitz wrote in a message

Metro Creative Connection / The Chief

Children will be back in the classroom for the start of the new school year at the Clatskanie Public School District Monday, Sept. 13.

to the district staff, school board and area families following the decision to postpone the start of the new school year.

Hurowitz did not have a number of how many students and staff had contracted COVID-19 in a published interview in the Sept. 3 edition

of The Chief, although she said some were quarantine, but none had been hospitalized.

“Our number one concern

is for the health and safety of students and staff,” she said.

Schools in Oregon are required to follow a mask mandate for students. The Clatskanie Schools and the Rainier School District have put into place health and safety protocols to help ensure the safety of all students, staff and school visitors, according to officials in the two school districts.

Schools are already using the Ready Schools, Safe Learners Resiliency Framework to reduce the spread of COVID-19 in school settings.

Because schools are controlled settings, with layered mitigation safety protocols in place, the risk of COVID-19 transmission can be lower than in the general community in settings without such protocols in place, according to the Oregon Department of Education (ODE).

This new school year, the Oregon Health Authority (OHA) and ODE will issue School Health Advisories to identify additional steps families, schools, and communities can take to help keep our children safely learning in our schools.

These advisories may be regional or statewide.

The School Health Advisories may name actions that individuals, families and communities can take to reduce the spread of COVID-19 and help schools stay open. They may be issued in response to either an increased risk by adding mitigation efforts or a reduced risk by rescinding previous School Health Advisories.

See the first such advisory in the story concerning the COVID-19 cases on page A1 of this edition.

$338,463 for earthquake planning STAFF REPORT chiefnews@countrymedia.net

Oregon is in line to receive $338,463 to support development of a comprehensive logistics and supply chain management plan in the event of a Cascadia Subduction Zone (CSZ) earthquake.

The federal grant has been announced by Oregon’s congressional democrats. The funds are being allocated through the Federal Emergency Management Agency’s (FEMA) FY2021 Regional Catastrophic Preparedness Grant Program.

Oregon’s greatest threat of earthquakes and tsunamis is from the Cascadia Subduction Zone, according to geologists. Stretching from northern California up into British Columbia, the Cascadia Subduction Zone “slips” roughly every 300 years causing major earthquakes. The last known major earthquake was in 1700 and evidence suggests it was a magnitude 8.7 to a 9.2.

Experts agree that Oregon is due for another major earthquake. Some forecasts suggest there is a ten to twenty percent chance of

Courtesy from the USGS

This map shows the Pacific Ocean basin and surrounding “Ring of Fire” subduction zones, where the tectonic plates collide, creating volcanoes, earthquakes, tsunamis, and mountainous landslide-prone terrain.

A closer look at the Cascadia Subduction Zone along the Pacific Coastline.

a magnitude 9 quake on the CSZ in the next fifty years, while others predict a twenty-five to forty percent chance of a major quake on the south end of the CSZ in the next fifty years.

“If a major earthquake hits along the Cascadia Subduction Zone, thousands could be killed and Oregon would suffer billions in economic damages,” Oregon U.S. Rep. DeFazio said.

DeFazio chairs the House Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure, which has jurisdiction over FEMA. “This funding will allow

the Cascadia Subduction Zone that could also touch off a destructive tsunami slamming the coast.”

“Oregon’s preparedness for a Cascadia Subduction Zone earthquake is critical to the stability of our infrastructure and the safety of our communities,” Oregon U.S. Sen. Jeff Merkley said. “I am pleased that this FEMA grant will go toward a comprehensive plan to protect Oregonians across the state, and ensure that we have the resources to manage any potential disaster and its aftermath.”

“The pandemic, the

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the state to better prepare for a major earthquake and tsunami and develop a strategy to support supply chain management in the event of disaster,” DeFazio said.

“The alarm that scientists are sounding about a potentially devastating earthquake hitting our state at some point demands a response that includes robust preparation to protect Oregonians and our communities,” Oregon U.S. Sen. Ron Wyden said. “I’m gratified that Oregon is receiving these FEMA funds to help with that needed preparation for a major quake along

wildfires, and the extreme weather events over the last year prove the value of being as prepared as possible for catastrophic events,” Oregon U.S. Congresswoman Suzanne Bonamici said. “We must be ready for a potential Cascadia Subduction Zone earthquake and related tsunami, so I’m grateful that Oregon was selected to receive this significant funding to help plan and prepare for a natural disaster that could strike at any time.”

The project funding will focus primarily on the threats and vulnerabilities

Courtesy photo

associated with a Cascadia Subduction Zone earthquake and tsunami, and the associated needs of socially vulnerable communities.

The grants are highly competitive, according to a release from the democrats.

Oregon is one of 15 state and local governments to be selected among 22 eligible applications.

To learn how you can best prepare for an earthquake or any natural disaster, visit www.ready. gov/earthquakes and see a series of related articles at thechiefnews.com.

•C rossword P uzzle • • STATEPOINT CROSSWORD THEME: TV COUPLES ACROSS

1. Sweeney Todd’s weapon 6. It’s in the hole?

9. Plural of #6 Across 13. Soft palate dangler 14. Each one for himself?

15. Red Cross supply 16. Short skirts 17. Flightless bird 18. Wavelike patterned silk 19. *Philip Banks’ wife 21. *Dre Johnson’s wife on “Black-ish” and occasional site around rain storm 23. 31st of the month, e.g.

24. E-mailed 25. Digital audio workstation 28. Essence of idea 30. Mouth infection 35. Fusses 37. Burden or load 39. Official language of Lesotho 40. Choose politically 41. Sashay 43. Thailand, formerly 44. All worked up 46. One assigned menial work 47. Rancher’s unit 48. Blue jeans 50. Famous Scottish lake 52. A cause of inflation 53. Number one 55. Israel Kamakawiwo’ole’s guitar

57. *Stars Hollow Luke’s love interest 61. *Louise Jefferson’s husband 64. Like a solitaire player 65. Government Printing Office 67. Home to BYU 69. Request to Geico 70. Calendar mo.

71. Gladdened 72. 36 inches 73. *Jake and ____ of “Brooklyn Nine-Nine” 74. Rub off

DOWN

1. Cuba Libre ingredient 2. Tel ____, Israel 3. Pueblo tribesman 4. Good will branch 5. Leveling to the ground 6. Congregation’s echo 7. *Mitch’s husband in “Modern Family” 8. Accustom 9. Long, long time 10. Baby container 11. German currency 12. Old World duck 15. The ____, an English rock band from the ‘80s 20. Goodbye to amiga 22. Marching insect 24. Classroom attendee 25. *Patrick’s fiance on “Schitt’s Creek”

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

Columbia County’s trusted local news source

26. Dig, so to speak 27. King of the gods in Wagner’s “Das Rheingold” 29. Barber shop sound 31. Civil Rights icon 32. Ancient city in Africa 33. *Javen’s companion on “Temptation Island” or Lamb Chops’ puppeteer 34. *Marge Simpson’s husband 36. Search for Extraterrestrial Intelligence 38. Kind of gin 42. Follow as a consequence 45. Bald Eagle to Americans, e.g.

49. Old Man’s turf, according to Hemingway 51. Capital of the Republic of Macedonia 54. Fraternity letter 56. Trial’s partner 57. Like a doily 58. Paella pot 59. Big cat sound 60. Blyton or Bagnold 61. Like a bloody horror movie 62. Romantic painter Francisco ____ 63. December 24 and 31, e.g.

66. *Jim’s co-worker and wife on “The Office” 68. Type of poem

www.thechiefnews.com

Friday, September 10, 2021

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•B

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 Aug. 31 • At approximately 11:42 a.m. OSP Troopers responded to a disturbance near milepost 27 on Highway 30. A private paving company was blocking the eastbound slow lane in the Oregon Department of Transportation (ODOT) construction zone and a verbal altercation took place between the company, ODOT and the construction company at the ODOT construction zone. Parties were separated and interviewed. The investigation is ongoing.

Sept. 1 • At about 8:06 a.m. while investigating a large scale marijuana drug traffic organization (DTO), detectives discovered another presumed grow location. This location appears to be part of a separate DTO. No detective available to investigate.

Sept. 3 • At about 9:47 am. OSP troopers were dispatched to an overturned log truck on Highway 202 near milepost 42.

An investigation determined that Unit #1 (maroon Kenworth) failed to drive within the single lane of travel in a corner which caused the log hauler to overturn. Unit #2 (black Volkswagen) crashed into the logs on the highway. No injuries were reported and both vehicles were driven from the scene Sept. 5 • At about 5:50 p.m. OSP was dispatched to the parking

Wildfire triggers quick response

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lotter •

area for Walton Beach #8 on Sauvie Island regarding a woman who was walking in the road and appeared to be on drugs. When the woman was contacted, she was only wearing a sweatshirt for a dress and did not have any shoes on. The woman appeared to be suffering from mental health issues and could not say where she lived or provide any telephone numbers for family members or friends. A group of people stated they found the woman earlier in the day walking along Highway 30 near Linnton and were concerned for her and gave her a ride to the beach, but now did not know what to do with her and did not want to leave her out there alone.

The woman did provide her name and date of birth but no other information. Medics responded to the scene and convinced the woman to go with them to Emanuel Hospital for evaluation.

Sept. 7 • At about 10:22 p.m. OSP troopers responded to a single vehicle injury crash on Highway 30 near milepost 18. A black Jeep had drove down a 15-foot embankment and was occupied by a female driver and three children. The driver was displaying indicators of impairment and had admitted to alcohol consumption. All occupants were transported to Emanual Hospital in Portland.

The driver was unable to safely perform sobriety tests but consented to a blood draw.

Two vials of blood were seized as evidence and the driver was issued a criminal citation for DUII. The Jeep was towed

by Drakes’ Towing.

Rainier Police

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Corolla hit a motorcyclist that reportedly ran a red light. The person riding the motorcycle was limping and got into an SUV and left the scene. Officers have not been able to reach the person believed to be operating the motorcycle to check on their welfare.

Aug. 29 • A 45-year-old St. Helens individual was cited to appear in Multnomah County Court on an outstanding warrant.

Aug. 30 • An officer responded to a two-vehicle accident on the Lewis and Clark Bridge. One party was transported with minor injuries. No citations were issued.

St. Helens Police Aug. 14 • Police arrested a 22-yearold male near Shore Drive on a probation violation.

Aug. 23 • Police arrested a 43-yearold male in the 700 block of Columbia River Highway on a stalking misdemeanor, vandalism of a vehicle and disorderly conduct.

Aug. 24 • Police arrested a 40-yearold male near Columbia Boulevard and Pine Street for DUII and reckless driving.

• Police responded to a sex crime call in the 30000 block of Roberts Lane.

Aug. 29 • Police arrested a 23-yearold male in the 400 block of Vernonia Road for charges of sodomy.

Aug. 25 • A red Toyota pickup was stolen from its parking spot on East A Street.

Aug. 31 • Police responded to a theft investigation near the 400 block of 2nd Street.

Aug. 27 • A caller reported a hit and run accident on Highway 30 near Rockcrest. A Toyota

The Scappoose Police and Columbia County Sheriff’s reports were not immediately available.

Race for Oregon Governor

Courtesy photo from CRFR

Columbia River Fire & Rescue (CRFR) crews battle a brush fire in St. Helens that threatened area homes and businesses.

JEREMY C. RUARK jruark@countrymedia.net

Two wildfires in Columbia County this week illustrates the current fire danger, according to local fire agencies.

At 8:33 p.m. on Wednesday, Sept. 8 Columbia River Fire & Rescue (CRFR) crews responded to a brush fire that was close to an acre in size directly behind El Tapatio on Columbia Boulevard in St. Helens.

“The fire was blazing with flames going up into the cable/power lines and took approximately an hour for firefighters to get the fire under control,” CRFR’s Jennifer Motherway said.

“The fire threatened close to 10 homes as well as an RV, numerous families in the surrounding homes were evacuated during the incident.”

Motherway said the fire was also extremely close to both Richardson’s Furniture and El Tapatio Restaurant, local community businesses.

Firefighters remained at the scene throughout the night to mop up and continue to manage hot spots and ensure the safety of the community.

“There was one minor injury related to smoke that medics were able to care for on scene,” Motherway said.

“The investigation into the cause of the fire is being handled by our fire marshal, no details are available at this time, as we will continue to investigate during daylight hours.”

CRFR was assisted on scene by Oregon Department of Forestry, Scappoose

Courtesy photo from CRFR

Fire crews from Columbia River Fire & Rescue and the Oregon Department of Forestry work to put out the wildfire in steep terrain near Deer Island.

Fire, St. Helens Police and Columbia River PUD. CRFR Chief Joel Medina credits the mutual response for the effective and quick suppression efforts of the brush fire.

“I would like to extend my sincere gratitude to St. Helens Police, Oregon Department of Forestry and Scappoose Fire in mitigating this situation,” Medina said.

“This is just a glimmering example of the collaborative effort that is put together among the districts and supporting agencies in our county to ensure the safety and well being of our citizens.”

Deer Island wildfire Smoke drifting over a wooded area in Columbia County caused multiple calls to the area’s 9-1-1 dispatch center Monday afternoon, Sept. 9.

Columbia River Fire & Rescue crews were dispatched to the smoke in the area call near Anliker Road

and Meissner Road in Deer Island.

After significant searching CRFR crews, along with a crew from the Oregon Department of Forestry, found and began to extinguish the fire. The size of the fire was approximately 1-2 acres located in steep terrain towards the east end of Meissner Road.

The details and cause of the fire were under investigation at press time.

Fire officials urge everyone to remember that the fire danger is still high and no outdoor burning is permitted in Columbia County.

The officials warn that even tossing a cigarette or parking your vehicle in tall grass can lead to wildfires that will spread fast due to the extreme dry conditions and afternoon winds.

Escaped fires of any kind resulting in property damage or requiring suppression efforts from a fire agency, may result in fines and individual financial responsibility for damages caused.

Jeremy C. Ruark / The Chief

Sandy Mayor Stan Pulliam makes a point during his gubernatorial exploratory visit to St. Helens last May. JEREMY C. RUARK jruark@countrymedia.net

The field of candidates is filling for Oregon’s next gubernatorial election Nov. 8, 2222.

“I’m in,” Pulliam announced Tuesday afternoon, Sept. 7 on his Facebook page. “I am running for governor of Oregon.”

Pulliam, a republican, brought his gubernatorial exploratory campaign to Co-

sell in buy and ieds sif the clas

lumbia County last May with a visit to St. Helens.

Salem businessman and veteran Air Force officer Jim Huggins announced his candidacy for the republican nomination for governor Sept. 8 on Lars Larson’s radio show.

Oregon House Speaker and democrat Tina Kotek announced last week that she is mounting a campaign for governor.

Incumbent Democratic

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Gov. Kate Brown cannot seek re-election in 2022 due to term limits. Brown took office following the resignation of John Kitzhaber in Feb. 2015 and she was subsequently elected governor in a special election in 2016, then re-elected for a full term in 2018.

Look for candidate preview stories at thechiefnews. com and in upcoming Friday print editions of The Chief.

•C rossword S olutions • •

Solution for the September 3, 2021 crossword puzzle

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The chief at 503-397-0116 to place your ad today!

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Friday, September 10, 2021

•C latskanie G rows • •

Clatskanie Grows: Winding down the garden CHIP BUBL Chief Guest Column

What you do with the vegetable garden space that is done producing and is this a good time to make new beds for next year’s planting?

I would first remove anything that in the garden that is diseased. Second, our soils need lime and lime takes about six months to fully react with the soil and make it less acidic, so fall is a great time to apply it. Add limestone to the vegetable garden at the rate of 10 pounds per 100 square feet and either rototill the soil and remaining plant debris or lightly turn it with a spading fork.

This is enough to last four or five years. If the area you are liming hasn’t been watered recently, you may need to water it for several hours and then till the next day to make it an easier process.

Then the big question: should you plant a fall through winter cover crop or not? Some gardeners prefer to cover the soil surface with leaves, compost, cornstalks

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or other types of organic matter alone or in combination. The mulch layer should be thick enough (3-4 inches) to slow weed growth. The mulch can also be covered with a tarp or black plastic for additional weed control and to lower the soil moisture saturation through winter. Small vegetable farmers have adopted winter tarping for weed control. It is a technique we use at the Master Gardeners demonstration garden at the fairgrounds and it has worked well for us.

The advantage of the mulch and tarp system is that you can work the garden earlier next spring for early vegetables. One disadvantage is that you don’t have living plants and their roots active in the soil over winter. The other concern is that you may create a nice habitat for field mice (“voles”). They will tend to scatter when you remove the tarp and start actively planting the area. But that isn’t guaranteed.

Cover crops have a long history in farming and gardening. In western

Oregon, we traditionally use a combination of a winter grain (oats, wheat, or rye) in combination with some legumes (hairy vetch, Crimson clover, Austrian winter peas, etc.). Increasingly, farmers and gardeners are lowering or eliminating the grain and sticking with only legumes.

The cover crop can be seeded anytime up to the end of October. A good stand will smother weeds. The cover crop root systems will

open up the soil and the entire plant will capture soluble nitrogen that will release back into the garden next summer as it decomposes.

Your early vegetable crops will need some additional nitrogen-containing fertilizer before the nitrogen from the cover crop is available.

Cover crops can produce a lot of plant biomass. It is not uncommon to get stands of 3 feet tall or more by next May, especially if grains are part of the seed mix. This can be a challenge to work into the soil and it will take 3-4 weeks after the crop is tilled in for it to decompose enough for

•V iewpoints • •

Legislative redistricting, record kicker BRAD WITT Chief Guest Column

Much is happening in the state right now, and I’d like to bring your attention to some important information.

Redistricting Every 10 years the United States Census is taken to determine population growth or decline, and where people are currently living. This information is used to determine how to redraw electoral lines to reflect population shifts and changes in demographics. In Oregon the state legislature will redraw the electoral lines using Census data and input from public testimony.

Redistricting is important to ensure fair and equal representation in government and to allocate resources. How a district is drawn will impact how a community’s voice is heard and represented in our government.

The Oregon Committees on Redistricting was to release draft maps on Sept. 3 during a committee hearing. These maps are not final, but will be used during the public hearings to give feedback and input to the Committees’ members.

Public hearings concerning the redistricting began Monday and continue through Sept. 13. Due to COVID-19, all hearings will be virtual.

Here is the remaining schedule: Friday, Sept. 10 • 8 a.m. - 11 a.m. (residents of Congressional District 2) • 1 p.m. - 4 p.m. (residents of Congressional District 3) • 5:30 p.m. - 8:30 p.m. (residents of Congressional District 4) Monday, Sept. 13 • 8 a.m. - 11 a.m. (residents of Congressional District 5) • 1 p.m. - 4 p.m. (statewide: open to residents of any district) • 5:30 p.m. - 8:30 p.m. (statewide: open to residents of any district) If you would like information on signing up to testify, go to this link: bit.ly/TestifySignUp. Record breaking tax licker State economists have released Oregon’s quarterly Economic and Revenue Fore-

cast. Oregon taxpayers will get a record $1.9 billion taken off their personal income taxes next year under the personal income tax kicker.

This means that for the median household, with earnings between $35,000 to $40,000, the estimated savings is $420.

For the average taxpayer with household income of $67,000 the savings will amount to $850. The top 1% of Oregon income earners, who bring in more than $442,700 annually could receive average kicker rebates of $16,880. And for the highest income earners, there could be a kicker worth $100,000.

The tax relief comes at a time when Oregonians are feeling the impacts of the pandemic, drought conditions and wildfires. It signals that Oregon’s economy remains strong and puts us on a path for rapid economic recovery.

Oregon COVID-19 infections, hospitalizations at all-time high As we head to the beginning of the school year we are seeing a serious surge in COVID-19 infections due to the highly contagious Delta variant.

In Oregon, the Delta variant is now tied to 90% of new cases. According to the Center for Disease Control (CDC) and the Oregon Health Authority (OHA) the Delta variant is more contagious and may cause up to twice as many infections as previous strains.

The pandemic has now reached the highest levels ever experienced in Oregon, and as a result, at this time, there are only 43 ICU beds left in the entire state. This means that people suffering serious injury or illness, may not be able to access the live-saving medical care they need.

In response to the dramatic increase in COVID-19 infections, and to keep our children safe and schools open, the Governor recently announced vaccination and masking mandates. Healthcare workers, K-12 educators, school staff and school volunteers will be required to be fully vaccinated

by October 18 or six weeks after full FDA approval of the vaccines. As a further safety measure, the Governor is requiring that educators, students and school staff wear masks at schools. In a school setting, because children under 12 are

still not eligible for vaccination, masks are a critical mitigation measure to help prevent the spread of COVID-19.

Making sure all adults around students are fully vaccinated adds another layer of protection for students. The goal is to ensure our children, as well as our teachers and school staff, are able to safely return to in-person learning this fall, five days per week.

The surge in COVID-19 cases is overwhelming Oregon’s health care system. In response, the Governor has deployed the National Guard and nurse strike teams, established temporary decompression units to free up bed space, and has formed a Hospital Crisis Prevention and response group to problem solve in real time during this ongoing hospital crisis.

Vaccines are the best tool we have to protect ourselves and our communities from COVID-19 and the Delta variant. Talk to your doctor or healthcare provider to get the information you need to make an informed decision. According to OHA and the CDC, all authorized vaccines are effective and work very well to protect you from getting very sick or dying from COVID-19. Everyone in Oregon age 12 and older is eligible to receive the vaccine, but it is your choice. If you would like to schedule an appointment for a vaccination you can follow this link: COVID-19 Vaccine in Oregon Stay in touch Even when I am not in Salem, I’m still working with constituents, community leaders and other elected officials on matters that impact our lives. We check our messages daily, so if you have a concern, comment or need help regarding a state issue or agency, please contact my office. I am honored to represent you in the Oregon House of Representatives, and look forward to hearing from you.

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

planting seeds. Some gardeners mow or weed whack the cover crop in late March and again in early May before tilling. This generally makes the process more manageable. Nevertheless, in a wet spring, the whole process can slow planting in comparison to the mulching technique. It is best suited to areas that will have hot season crops (corn, snap beans, squash, tomatoes, and peppers)

Clatskanie Grows

planted in them.

It is less useful for onions, potatoes, spinach, lettuce, peas, etc. that can go in earlier.

I learned an interesting approach to cover crops from a friend. He plants spinach seed (which he has saved from his garden) and he reports that most of it grows and a significant portion survives most winters to produce a nice crop of spinach next spring. A farmer I know has seeded some of the more cold-hardy peas (Cascade is one variety) and often gets peas the next spring. Either spinach or peas should be seeded soon for best results.

•

•V oices

Columbia County needs a new sheriff The office of Sheriff of Columbia County has limited powers and authority.

This is also the time to start new garden beds to plant into next spring. If the area is covered in grass, it has to be removed. You could rototill the grass. But unless you cover the new tilled bed with some cardboard and a thick 4-5 inch layer of mulch, and possibly black plastic as well, grass will return. You can do the same mulch layer without rototilling and get generally good results. Another option is to remove the sod and pile it in a corner to compost over the winter. Cover the area with compost or plant winter cover crops directly into it. The final option is to treat the sod with a non-residual herbicide and after the grass dies, cover the area with compost and/ or possibly black plastic.

Shrubs, small trees, and herbaceous perennials can be moved/transplanted into already prepared beds as it gets cooler and the deciduous species begin to lose their leaves.

If you have any questions about making new beds or managing them over winter, contact me.

Important notes The OSU Extension Office is fully reopened.

Wearing a mask inside is still required.

Plant an extra for the food bank, senior centers, or community meals programs. Cash do-nations to buy food are also greatly appreciated.

The Extension Service offers its programs and materials equally to all people.

of the

Have questions?

If you have questions on any of these topics or other home garden and/or farm questions, please contact Chip Bubl, Oregon State University Extension office in St. Helens at 503-397-3462 or at chip.bubl@oregonstate.edu.

The office is open from 8 a.m.-5 p.m. Monday through Friday.

Free newsletter The Oregon State University Extension office in Columbia County publishes a monthly newsletter on gardening and farming topics (called County Living) written/edited by yours truly.

All you need to do is ask for it and it will be mailed or emailed to you. Call 503 397-3462 to be put on the list.

Alternatively, you can find it on the web at extension. oregonstate.edu/columbia/ and click on newsletters.

Many Extension publications available online Are you putting up salsa, saving seeds, or thinking about planting grapes? OSU has a large number of its publications available for free download. Just go to catalog. extension.oregonstate.edu.

Click on publications and start exploring.

Oregon State University Extension Service – Columbia County 505 N. Columbia River Highway St. Helens, OR 97051 503-397-3462

C ommunity • •

Such do not include the decision-making power to determine whether or not our governor’s mandates are constitutional or not. A sheriff cannot elevate his authority to act like our Supreme Court.

The example Sheriff Pixley is setting for our

population in just deciding a governor’s mandate is not enforceable is detrimental to an organized society.

Columbia County needs a new sheriff.

Stanley E. Erickson Portland

Weekly Online Poll

Last Week’s Results

Are you going to attend a local high school sporting event this fall?

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The Chief

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

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

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

Friday, September 10, 2021

A5

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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 CARL LEE PELLHAM, Deceased. No. 21PB06909 NOTICE TO INTERESETED 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 Sept. 10, 2021. William C. Pellham, 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 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 CC21-1514

CC21-1515

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.

CLATSKANIE PEOPLE’S UTILITY NOTICE OF NOTICE OF MEETING MEETING The regular meeting of Offices (the Old Middle DISTRICT MEETING NOTICE the Clatskanie Park & RecSchool). Items on the agenda The Board of DirecThe Clatskanie People’s Utility District Board of Directors has scheduled the next regular Board meeting for Wednesday, September 15, 2021 at 6:00 pm in the community room of the District’s administration building located at 495 E Columbia River Highway, Clatskanie. A Board Workshop will be held at 5:30 pm. An executive session may be called at the workshop and/or meeting, pursuant to: ORS 192.660 (2) (f) information or records that are exempt by law from public inspection. AGENDA

CLATSKANIE PEOPLE’S UTILITY DISTRICT BOARD WORKSHOP on Wednesday, September 15, 2021 at 5:30 P.M. I. RATE CHANGE SUMMARY PRESENTATION & PUBLIC HEARING: Paul Dockery Public Comment – Regarding Rate Increase Presentation/ Proposal II. STAFF REPORTS UPDATE CLATSKANIE PEOPLE’S UTILITY DISTRICT REGULAR BOARD MEETING on Wednesday, September 15, 2021 at 6:00 P.M. I. PUBLIC COMMENTS II. CONSENT

AGENDA · Minutes of Board Workshop, August 18, 2021 · Minutes of Regular Board Meeting, August 18, 2021 · Review payment of bills for August 2021 III. ACTION ITEMS · Policy Review: 106 Lighting Policy · Resolution 21-04 Adoption of Updated Rate Schedules · Resolution 21-05 Western Resource Adequacy Program Participation IV. DISCUSSION / INFORMATIONAL ITEMS · Board Comments & Calendar V. EXECUTIVE SESSION VI. ADJOURNMENT

tors for Clatskanie School District 6J will hold a Board meeting, Monday, September 13, 2021, 6:30 p.m. via Zoom and in person at the Old Middle School Gym, 660 SW Bryant St. Please see our website at www.csd. k12.or.us on the main page for directions to join the zoom meeting. The agenda includes but is not limited to: Superintendent and Principal’s reports, financial report, and the consent agenda.

Please see our website for an official agenda. The public is encouraged to attend.

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reation District will be held on Thursday, September 16, 2021 at 6:00 p.m. at 555 SW Bryant St., Clatskanie, OR, Port of Columbia County

include but are not limited to: General Park maintenance and pool operation update(s).

Board Chari, Andrew Mustola.

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NOTICE OF MEETING The regular meeting of the Rainier Cemetery District will be held on Monday, September 20, 2021 at 5:00 p.m. at the Rainier Cemetery Office, 24952 Alston Rd.,

Rainier, OR. Items on the agenda include but are not limited to: Monthly updates on cemetery operations.

Janice Carstensen, Board Chairman.

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CITY SEEKING REQUEST FOR QUALIFICATIONS The City of Clatskanie is seeking a Request for Qualifications (RFQ) for a Grant Administrator to manage the financials and reporting requirements of a $720,000

Community Block Development Grant to conduct the Engineering and Environmental assessment phase for a new Waste-water Treatment Plant. Submissions are

due at City Hall by close of business, September 30th 2021. Please go to the City’s website at www. cityofclatskanie.com for a copy of the RFQ.

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A6

Friday, September 10, 2021

Record level of scam complaints received STAFF REPORT chiefnews@countrymedia.net

The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) has received a record number of complaints about Economic Impact Payment scams in June and July 2021.

This number of scam complaints has not been seen in more than a decade, according to a release from the federal agency.

“In today’s world, the protection of our personal information is tied to our well-being,” IRS Criminal Investigation (IRS:CI) Special Agent in Charge Bret Kressin said. “As threats against our personal information continue to rise, so must our vigilance in protecting that information. IRS:CI continues to safeguard this information from those who wish to steal it, but we need your help in being wary of po-

tential scams and reporting them.”

“Victims lose billions each year to fraud schemes,” Acting U.S. Attorney Scott Erik Asphaug said. “At a time when many in our country continue to experience the economic effects of the COVID-19 pandemic, criminals are taking advantage of government programs aimed at helping those in need. If you learn that a friend or family member has been targeted and is contemplating sending money to someone they do not know, please intercede. If the offer sounds fraudulent or too good to be true, it probably is.”

Phishing scams attempt to mirror legitimate IRS communications with the goal of convincing unsuspecting taxpayers to enter personal information or submit a payment. This information is then exploited by scammers.

Recent scam reports include: • Text messages stating that a taxpayer is eligible for a “stimulus payment” and they must click on a link to complete the necessary information to claim it.

• Phishing emails claiming the IRS has calculated a taxpayer’s “fiscal activity” and they are eligible for an Economic Impact payment in a specific amount.

Although criminals are constantly changing their tactics, taxpayers can help protect themselves by acting as the first line of defense.

The best way to avoid falling victim to a scam is knowing how the IRS communicates with taxpayers, the agency said. The IRS does not send unsolicited texts or emails. The IRS does not threaten individuals with jail or lawsuits, nor does it demand tax payments on gift cards or via cryptocurrency.

Taxpayers should be on the lookout for grammatical, capitalization and spelling errors in emails and texts, which serve as fraud indica-

Courtesy image

Phishing scams, such as this IRS impersonation email, attempt to mirror legitimate IRS communications with the goal of convincing unsuspecting taxpayers to enter personal information or submit a payment. This information is then exploited by scammers.

tors. Taxpayers should also exercise caution when clicking shortened URLs, which can lead to fraudulent web pages.

Taxpayers who receive unsolicited emails or social media attempts to gather information that appear to be from either the IRS or an organization closely linked to the IRS, should forward the message to phishing@irs.gov.

Taxpayers are encouraged not to engage potential scammers online or on the phone.

Taxpayers can report fraud or theft of their Economic Impact Payments to the Treasury Inspector General for Tax Administration (TIGTA). Reports can be made online at TIPS.TIGTA. GOV. If you suspect you are a victim of identity theft as a

result of a scam, visit the Taxpayer Guide to Identity Theft to know what steps to take.

To learn more about COVID-19 scams and other financial schemes, visit IRS. gov. Official IRS information about COVID-19 and Economic Impact Payments can be found on the Coronavirus Tax Relief page, which is updated frequently.

Rainier city councilor resigns JEREMY C. RUARK jruark@countrymedia.net

Rainier City Councilor Brenda Tschida has resigned her position because she is moving out of state, according to Rainier City Administrator Scott Jorgensen.

“I am officially giving you my resignation notice as I will be moving out of state. This notice is effective immediately,” Tschida’s resignation reads.

Jorgensen said he and Rainier Mayor Jerry Cole received the resignation letter

COVID-19

From Page A1

‘This isn’t about you’ At the end of the media briefing, Brown made a statement directed at all Oregonians.

“This isn’t about you,” Brown said. “This is about the kids under 12 that can’t get vaccinated. This is about your friend or your

EVENTS

From Page A1

so gracious and held their unused tickets for canceled performances, so we decided our first obligation was to them and those performers to rebook them.”

Wooley said the commission is pleased to have the Fern Hill Bluegrass Band with the Bloomer Family, Sundae and Mr. Goessl, the Karen Carpenter Tribute Band and pianist Sarah Hagan returning. Also added to the performing lineup is violinist, Aaron Meyer, and his band, and Men of Worth with friends.

“We realize that COVID, and especially the variants, are not going away and we plan to follow the guidelines set up by the State of Oregon,” Wooley said. “We want everyone to be safe and to keep venues such as ours open so, as of today, we are requiring masks to be worn by all in attendance. We will socially distance as best as we can.”

Wooley said the commission is asking anyone that may be ill, have been exposed to COVID, or have been asked to self-quarantine, not to attend these performances.

“As guidelines change so shall we,” she said. “Please check our website, clatskaniearts.org for the latest restrictions. If you have tickets from previously canceled performances, we will honor them this season.”

History

by email Sunday, Sept. 5.

Tschida was appointed by the Rainier City Council November 2 to replace James Bradfield, a longtime councilor who had also moved out of town.

Jorgensen said applications are currently being sought to fill the city council vacancy left by Tschida’s departure. The term expires in January 2023. Applicants for the volunteer position must currently reside, and have been a resident for at least one year, within the city limits. neighbor who is struggling with cancer and for whatever reason cannot receive a vaccine right now. This is for our entire community.

It is also about health care workers that have been working day and night for weeks, for months now to keep Oregonians alive. They need us to keep wearing our masks.”

Latest cases On Sept. 7, The OHA “With the theme “88 in 88”, the piano teachers, along with local supporters of the arts, not only raised enough to purchase that piano but to start a performing arts series, she said. “The first series celebrated the piano with each performance. Then it became time to broaden the offerings and present a wide variety of musical experiences to our audiences. This has remained the goal of CAC as it begins its 32nd Performing Arts Series.”

According to Wooley, the community has always been very supportive of all phases of the arts, and has had many young men and women become successful musicians, artists, actors, and writers who use their artistic talents in creative and productive ways.

Even though this area is considered “culturally deprived” because of its rural location, Wooley said the Clatskanie Arts Commission is proud that it has been able to bring world-class performances at affordable prices to be supported and enjoyed by our audiences.

“CAC has supported other areas of art – art shows, writing contests, and Missoula Children Theatre workshops and it is excited to be involved with the mural project presently taking place in Clatskanie,” she said.

The CAC Board, over the years, has been an eclectic group of community people from Clatskanie, Rainier and St. Helens, who have the goal of bringing the best possible, most varied artists to perform here, according to Wooley.

“In most years we attend the Arts NW Booking Conference where performers show us their best 12-minute acts,” she said. “We take into consideration not only their talent but their stage presence and personalities. We have been very fortunate to have

The Clatskanie Arts Commission began in 1988 by local piano teachers who wanted to raise enough money to purchase a grand piano for use by their students, according to Wooley.

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Councilors are expected to attend one regular meeting per month, which typically takes place on the first Monday at 6 p.m. Other meetings may also be scheduled, as needed, Jorgensen said.

Those interested in applying may pick up an application Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. at Rainier City Hall, 106 West “B” Street or call 503-556-7301.

The application deadline is September 27. The Rainier City Council will appoint the new member at its October 4 meeting. reported 54 new COVID-19 related deaths in Oregon, raising the state’s death toll to 3,326. The OHA also reported 5,821 new confirmed and presumptive cases of COVID-19, rising the state total to 289,649.

The totals reflect data reported by local health officials over four days, between Sept. 3 and Sept. 6.

COVID-19 vaccinations are free and available at most pharmacies and health centers. the support of local businesses and individuals who help subsidize the artistic fees for these performers, so we are able to keep our prices very affordable.”

For many years all CAC performances were held at the Clatskanie Middle/High School.

“When the restoration of the IOOF Hall began, we were fortunate to partner with the Clatskanie Foundation in the restoring and designing of the Birkenfeld Theatre which is now our home,” Wooley said.

Performing Arts Series 3 p.m. Sept. 19 Fernhill Bluegrass Band with the Bloomer Family 7:30 p.m. Oct. 2 Violinist Aaron Meyer 3 p.m. Dec. 12 Men of Worth’s Holiday Show 3 p.m. March 20 Sundae & Mr. Goessl 3 p.m. April 3 Karen Carpenter Tribute Band 3 p.m. May 22 Pianist Sarah Hagan Birkenfeld Theatre Clatskanie Cultural Center 75 S. Nehalem St. 503-728-3403 For ticket information and more details about the Clatskanie Arts Commission Performing Arts series, call 503-728-3403.

Jeremy C. Ruark / The Chief

The Columbia County Sheriff’s Marine Patrol uses several water crafts including this 29-foot aluminum boat to patrol the Columbia River.

PATROL

From Page A1

Marine Board gets no general fund tax dollars. Funds come from boat registration and titling, motorboat fuel tax, and federal dollars distributed by the US Coast Guard.

“Columbia County has some unique issues to which we pay special attention,” Henry said. “Multnomah Channel has a mix of floating homes, marinas and boat use that don’t always work well together. We need boaters to be careful of their boat’s wake so they’re not causing problems at marinas and floating homes. Slow down, observe slow-no-wake zones, and do activities that create larger wakes as far from these facilities as you can.”

Sheriff’s insight Columbia County Sheriff Brian Pixley said the collaboration between the Oregon Marine Board and his deputies is critical to life and safety on the Columbia River.

“Just by a deputy being on the river every day, it saves someones life,” Pixley said.

“We are out here doing safety inspections and compliance

checks to make sure people are boating safely because out here there is really zero margin on error. If you fall into the river there is really a good chance that getting hurt or dying.”

Pixley said there are common mistakes that can lead to trouble for boaters.

“Alcohol consumption is one and also people are in too much of a hurry,” he said. “They don’t have a lookout when they are out in their boats, they are playing, putting on their water skies and they are just not paying attention.”

Pixley said anyone venturing out along the Columbia River and other waterways in the county needs to make sure they have the required safety gear and equipment and the needed permits.

“It’s also important that they pay attention when they are operating on the river,” Pixley said. “It’s OK to have fun but it is important to stay safe for yourself and everyone else.”

The Columbia River can be very dangerous during fall fishing, according to Pixley.

“The boats will actually be stretched across the river and through the commercial shipping channel.

“I have had to cut

people’s anchor lines to pull them out of the way of the commercial ships probably seconds before their anchor balls are pulled down by the ship,” Pixley said. “Every year that is surprising to me because they will recognize the danger and stay out of the shipping channel but they just want to catch a fish. And that is very dangerous.”

Pixley said the ships can run aground if they are forced out of the shipping channels.

“That could cause serious ecological damage and damage to their vessel,” he said.

According to Henry, when the tides, commercial shipping and fishing seasons line up well, it can lead to very dangerous interaction between large freighters and small boats.

“Anchoring in the channel is a violation of state and federal law and we work with the US Coast Guard, Columbia County and Oregon State Police each year to assess risk and conduct enforcement operations,” Henry said. “I would recommend that boaters avoid anchoring up in the channel this year as we will be citing. The last thing we want is to see a recreational boat get run over, or a freighter to run aground and cause an environmental catastrophe.”

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Friday, September 10, 2021

A7

SPORTS SCHEDULES

FALL SPORTS SCHEDULES CLATSKANIE MIDDLE/HIGH SCHOOL FOOTBALL Aug. 27 Sept. 3 Sept. 10 Sept. 17 Sept. 24 Oct. 1 Oct. 8 Oct. 15 Oct. 22 Oct. 29

6 7 7 7 7 7 7 7 7 7

p.m. p.m. p.m. p.m. p.m. p.m. p.m. p.m. p.m. p.m.

At Astoria (North Coast Jamboree) Vs. Dayton At Nestucca At Willamina Vs. Knappa At Warrenton At Yamhill-Carlton Vs. Corbett At Rainier Vs. Blanchet Catholic

CLATSKANIE MIDDLE/HIGH SCHOOL GIRLS SOCCER Sept. 7 Sept. 14 Sept. 21 Sept. 23 Sept. 28 Sept. 30 Oct. 5 Oct. 7 Oct. 11 Oct. 14 Oct. 19 Oct. 21 Oct. 26

6 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

4 p.m.

4:15 p.m.

6 p.m.

5 p.m.

6 p.m.

6 p.m.

6 p.m.

6 p.m.

4:15 p.m.

4:15 p.m.

4:15 p.m.

Vs. Ilwaco High School (at Clatskanie City Park)

At Corbett At Castle Rock High School (WA) Vs. Tillamook at Clatskaine City Park Vs. Seaside at Clatskanie City Park At Astoria (at CMH field)

Vs. Banks / Vernonia (at Clatskanie City Park)

At Valley Catholic At Tillamook At Seaside (Broadway Field) Vs. Astoria (at Clatskanie City Park) At Banks / Vernonia (Sunset Park) Vs. Valley Catholic (at Clatskanie Park)

Best of luck athletes!

135 N Nehalem Clatskanie • 503-728-4122 • versieats.com/menu-colvins-clatskanie

Good luck this season

City of Clatskanie

75 S. Nehalem Street, Clatskanie, 503-728-2622

CLATSKANIE MIDDLE/HIGH SCHOOL VOLLEYBALL Aug. 28 Aug. 28

TBD

9 a.m.

Vs. Seaside (Warrenton Tournament at Warrenton High School) At Warrenton (Warrenton Tournament at Warrenton High School)

Aug. 28

5:30 p.m.

At Jewell (Warrenton Tournament at Warrenton High School)

Sept. 9

6:30 p.m.

Vs. Seaside

5:30 p.m.

At Kennedy

6:30 p.m.

At Dayton

Sept. 21

5:30 p.m.

Vs. Willamina

Sept. 30

5:30 p.m.

Vs. Warrenton

5:30 p.m.

At Willamina

Sept. 1

Sept. 16 Sept. 18 Sept. 23 Oct. 5 Oct. 7 Oct. 9

10 a.m.

At Oregon Episcopal

5:30 p.m.

At Rainier

5:30 p.m.

At Taft

9 a.m.

At Seaside (Seaside Tournament at Seaside High School)

Oct. 12

5:30 p.m.

Vs. Rainier

Oct. 21

5:30 p.m.

Vs. Taft

Oct. 19

5:30 p.m.

At Warrenton

CLATSKANIE MIDDLE/HIGH SCHOOL BOYS CROSS COUNTRY Oct. 6

4 p.m.

Trojan Relays at Trojan Recreation Park

CLATSKANIE MIDDLE/HIGH SCHOOL GIRLS CROSS COUNTRY No meets were scheduled at press time

GOOD LUCK ATHLETES 503-728-2163 • www.clatskaniepud.com 495 E Columbia River Highway Clatskanie, OR

Deer Island Store

Your Community Store

Have a great season!

64561 Columbia River Hwy, Deer Island 503-397-6862

Play hard and have fun!

Located on Rock Quarry Rd. off of Hwy. 30 just North of Tide Cr. Rd.•503-397-5180•customerservicetca@gmail.com

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A8

Friday, September 10, 2021

SPORTS SCHEDULES

FALL SPORTS SCHEDULES RAINIER JR/SR HIGH SCHOOL FOOTBALL

Sept. 3 Sept. 10 Sept. 17 Sept. 24 Oct. 1 Oct. 7 Oct. 15 Oct. 22 Oct. 29

7 7 7 7 7 7 7 7 7

p.m. p.m. p.m. p.m. p.m. p.m. p.m. p.m. p.m.

At Salem Academy At Scio Vs. Amity At Banks Vs. Yamhill-Carlton At Blanchet Catholic At Warrenton Vs. Clatskanie At Corbett

RAINIER JR/SR HIGH SCHOOL VOLLEYBALL Aug. 26 Aug. 31 Sept. 2 Sept. 13 Sept. 16 Sept. 18 Sept. 18 Sept. 21 Sept. 23 Sept. 28 Sept. 30 Oct. 7 Oct. 9 Oct. 12 Oct. 14 Oct. 16 Oct. 16 Oct. 19

6 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

6 p.m.

6 p.m.

6 p.m.

2 p.m.

4 p.m.

5:30 p.m.

5:30 p.m.

5:30 p.m.

5:30 p.m.

5:30 p.m.

10 a.m.

5:30 p.m.

5:30 p.m.

3 p.m.

5 p.m.

5:30 p.m.

At Oregon Episcopal

At Riverdale Vs. Seaside At Gladstone Vs. Amity Vs. Pleasant Hill (@ Dayton High School) At Dayton Vs. Warrenton Vs. Clatskanie At Willamina Vs. Taft At Warrenton

TBD (Seaside Tournament - Seaside High School)

At Clatskanie Vs. Willamina At Toledo (Dayton High School) At Dayton At Taft

RAINIER JR/SR HIGH SCHOOL GIRLS SOCCER Sept. 7

6 p.m.

Sept. 14 4:30 p.m.

At Corbett

Sept. 21

At Castle Rock High School (WA)

4 p.m.

Sept. 23 4:15 p.m.

Vs. Tillamook at Clatskaine City Park

Sept. 28

6 p.m.

Vs. Seaside at Clatskanie City Park

Sept. 30

5 p.m.

At Astoria

Oct. 5

6 p.m.

Vs. Banks / Vernonia (at Clatskanie City Park)

Oct. 7

6 p.m.

At Valley Catholic

Oct. 11

6 p.m.

At Tillamook

Oct. 14

6 p.m.

At Seaside (Broadway Field)

Oct. 19

4:15 p.m.

Vs. Astoria

Oct. 21

4:15 p.m.

At Banks / Vernonia (Sunset Park)

Oct. 26

4:15 p.m.

Vs. Valley Catholic

RAINIER JR/SR HIGH SCHOOL BOYS CROSS COUNTRY TBD

Sept. 4 Sept. 8

TBD

Sept. 25

Three Course Challenge at Camp Rilea in Warrenton

Oct. 6

4 p.m.

Oct. 9

TBD

Trojan Relays at Trojan Recreation Park Rainier XC Invitational at Rainier

RAINIER JR/SR HIGH SCHOOL GIRLS CROSS COUNTY Sept. 4

TBD

The Ultimook Race at Hydrangea Ranch in Tillamook

Sept. 25

TBD

Three Course Challenge at Camp Rilea in Warrenton

Oct. 9

TBD

Rainier XC Invitational at Rainier

SCAPPOOSE

Selling used appliances

115 Est A Street - Rainier, OR 97048 Mon-Sat 9:30 to 5:30 - 503-556-3005

The Ultimook Race at Hydrangea Ranch in Tillamook

3:30 p.m. 3A District 1 Preview at Horizon Christian in Tualatin

RAINIER APPLIANCE GOOD LUCK THIS SEASON

Vs. Ilwaco high School (at Clatskanie City Park)

Sand & Gravel Co.

Have a great season!

P.O. Box AF • 33485 E. Crown Zellerbach Rd. Scappoose, OR 97056 • Phone: (503) 543-8821 Email: scappoosesg@gmail.com • Website: www.scappoosesandandgravel.com • FAX: (503) 543-7997

Lawrence Oil Company Est 1958

GO LIONS! 845 N. Hwy 30 / P.O. Box 449, St. Helens • 503-397-0076

Meet your local Agents Bonnie Laica

Bonnie Laica has spent the last 28 years assisting folks in Columbia, Cowlitz, and Clatsop counties with their personal insurance. She is excited to be a part of the Hagan Hamilton team in St. Helens and looks forward to engaging with the community. Helping people find solutions to their Medicare, Home, and Auto insurance purchasing decisions, and all their personal insurance needs. bonnie@haganhamilton.com, 971-225-3257 or 503-397-0123

David Wasylenko

David Wasylenko is a long time resident of Columbia County Oregon and takes pride in being active and involved in the local community. He has 13 years of experience in the insurance industry, which he will use to find the right product to protect your business, home, car, or even your life! He is excited to be a part of the St. Helens Hagan Hamilton team and looks forward to serving your needs. davidw@haganhamilton.com, 503-987-0164 or 971-757-0461

(503) 397-0123 1620 | Columbia Blvd, St Helens, OR 97051 | haganhamilton.com

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- Family owned and operated since 1977 A FULL SERVICE WATER TREATMENT AND WATER PUMP COMPANY. One call does it all! 503.397.1744 • http://mcmullenwater.com

GOOD LUCK FALL ATHLETES!

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www.thechiefnews.com

Friday, September 10, 2021

A9

SPORTS SCHEDULES

FALL SPORTS SCHEDULES ST. HELENS HIGH SCHOOL FOOTBALL 6 7 7 7 7 7 7 7 7 7

Aug. 27 Sept. 3 Sept. 10 Sept. 17 Sept. 24 Oct. 1 Oct. 8 Oct. 15 Oct. 22 Oct. 29

p.m. p.m. p.m. p.m. p.m. p.m. p.m. p.m. p.m. p.m.

Jamboree at Astoria At La Salle Prep Vs. The Dalles At Hillsboro Vs. Canby At Forest Grove At North Salem Vs. Wilsonville Vs. McKay At Scappoose

ST. HELENS HIGH SCHOOL GIRLS SOCCER Aug. 31 Sept. 1 Sept. 9 Sept. 14 Sept. 21 Sept. 28 Oct. 6 Oct. 12 Oct. 14 Oct. 19 Oct. 21 Oct. 26 Oct. 28

7 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

6:30 p.m.

6 p.m.

6:30 p.m.

7 p.m.

7 p.m.

7 p.m.

6:30 p.m.

6:30 p.m.

6:30 p.m.

7 p.m.

6:30 p.m.

Vs. Glencoe At Hood River Valley At Astoria Vs. Seaside At Banks / Vernonia At Century At Putnam

At Milwaukie / Milwaukie Acad. of the Arts

Vs. La Salle Prep Vs. Parkrose Vs. Hillsboro At Wilsonville Vs. Scappoose

ST. HELENS HIGH SCHOOL GIRLS CROSS COUNTRY Aug. 26 Sept. 22 Oct. 6

4:15 p.m.

TBA 4 p.m.

Canby Invitational at Mollala State Park NWOC St. Helens Hosts at McCormick Park Trojan Relays at Trojan Recreation Park

Vehicle Wash Program

LOCAL OR

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Earn $300 for your team or nonprofit group crpud.net/wash

Sept. 2

6:30 p.m.

Vs. Hood River Valley

Sept. 9

6:30 p.m.

Vs. Astoria

Sept. 14

6 p.m.

At Seaside

Sept. 16

6:30 p.m.

Vs. Tillamook

Sept. 23

6:30 p.m.

Vs. Banks

Sept. 27

6:30 p.m.

Vs. Barlow

Oct. 6

6:30 p.m.

Vs. Putnam

Oct. 12

6:30 p.m.

Vs. Milwaukie / Milwaukie Acad. of the Arts

Oct. 14

4:30 p.m.

At La Salle Prep

Oct. 19

4 p.m.

At Parkrose

Oct. 21

4:30 p.m.

At Hillsboro

Oct. 26

6:30 p.m.

Vs. Wilsonville

Oct. 28

4:15 p.m.

At Scappoose

ST. HELENS HIGH SCHOOL VOLLEYBALL Sept. 16

7 p.m.

At Parkrose

Sept. 21

6:45 p.m.

At Hillsboro

Sept. 23

6:45 p.m.

Vs. Wilsonville

Sept. 27

6:45 p.m.

At Scappoose

Sept. 29

6:45 p.m.

At Putnam

Oct. 4

6:45 p.m.

At Milwaukie / Milwaukie Acad. of the Arts

Oct. 6

6:45 p.m.

Vs. La Salle Prep

Oct. 12

6:45 p.m.

Vs. Parkrose

Oct. 19

6:45 p.m.

Vs. Hillsboro

Oct. 21

6:45 p.m.

At Wilsonville

Oct. 25

6:45 p.m.

Vs. Scappoose

ST. HELENS HIGH SCHOOL BOYS CROSS COUNTRY Sept. 22 Oct. 6

3:30 p.m.

4 p.m.

NWOC St. Helens Hosts at McCormick Park Trojan Relays at Trojan Recreational Park

Good luck Athletes

I

TS

NO

ST. HELENS HIGH SCHOOL BOYS SOCCER

N P ROF

08-18-16 3x5 Best Seat:Layout 1 8/16/16 1:24 PM Page 1

Dianna’s Formal Affair

1811 Columbia Blvd. St. Helens, OR www.diannasformalaffair.com • 503-397-3026

Oregon Trail Lanes Junior League - Saturdays at 9:30 am Everyone makes the team, and you’ll never get rained out! Learn a lifelong sport that you can enjoy alone or with friends for years to come! A fun, competitive team sport where everyone gets to play.

Certified coaches - Optional Tournaments - Scholarships

get the best seat in the house at

good luck local athletes “where columbia county has bought with confidence since 1959” 2015 columbia blvd., st. helens, oregon 503.397.1329 www.richardsonsfurniture.com

Session 1 Sept 11th - Dec 18th

Grand Prix Tournament Dec 18th

Session 2 Jan 8th - March 19th

Adult/Junior Tournament March 19th

Session 3 April 2nd - May 21st

City Tournament June 4th

$9.00 per week Earn a $50 pro-shop credit with every 10 weeks bowled!

Email OregonTrailLanes@gmail.com or call (503) 397-1011 to sign up.

Columbia County’s trusted local news source

www.thechiefnews.com

A10

SPORTS SCHEDULES SCAPPOOSE HIGH SCHOOL BOYS SOCCER

Aug. 26 Aug. 31 Sept. 2 Sept. 7 Sept. 14 Sept. 16 Sept. 21 Sept. 23 Oct. 7 Oct. 12 Oct. 14 Oct. 19 Oct. 21 Oct. 26

6 p.m 4:15 p.m.

4:15 p.m.

7 p.m.

7 p.m.

4:15 p.m.

4:15 p.m.

6 p.m.

4:15 p.m.

7 p.m.

4:15 p.m.

4:15 p.m.

7 p.m.

7 p.m.

Sept. 2 Sept. 7 Sept. 9 Sept. 14 Sept. 16 Sept. 21 Sept. 23 Oct. 6 Oct. 12 Oct. 14 Oct. 19 Oct. 21 Oct. 26 Oct. 28

7 p.m.

4:15 p.m.

7 p.m.

4:15 p.m.

7 p.m.

6 p.m.

4:15 p.m.

4:15 p.m.

4:15 p.m.

7 p.m.

7 p.m.

4:15 p.m.

4:15 p.m.

6:30 p.m.

At Roosevelt Vs. The Dalles / Dufur (at Chinook Field) At Silverton Vs. Tigard (at Chinook Field) At Central At Springfield Vs. Glencoe (at Chinook Field)

Vs. Milwaukie / Milwaukie Acad. of the Arts (at Chinook Field)

Vs. Hillsboro (at Chinook Field)

At Putnam At La Salle Prep Vs. Wilsonville (at Chinook Field) Vs. Parkrose (at Chinook Field) At St. Helens

SCAPPOOSE HIGH SCHOOL GIRLS CROSS COUNTRY Sept. 22

TBA

SCAPPOOSE HIGH SCHOOL FOOTBALL

At Forest Grove Vs. Banks (at Chinnok Field) Vs. Dallas (at Chinook Field) At McNary At Forest Grove Vs.Roosevelt (at Chinook Field) Vs. Benson (at Chinook Field) At Astoria (at Hal Snow Field in Warrenton) Vs. Valley Catholic (at Chinook Field) At Hillsboro Vs. Putnam (at Chinook Field) Vs. La Salle Prep (at Chinook Field) At Wilsonville At Parkrose

SCAPPOOSE HIGH SCHOOL GIRLS SOCCER

NWOC St. Helens Hosts at McCormick Park

Friday, September 10, 2021

Sept. 4

7 p.m.

Vs. Parkrose

Sept. 10

7 p.m.

At Hood River Valley

Sept. 18

TBA

Sept. 24

7 p.m.

Vs. Wilsonville

Oct. 1

7 p.m.

At Hillsboro

Oct. 8

7 p.m.

At McKay

Oct. 15

7 p.m.

Vs. Canby

Oct. 22

7 p.m.

At North Salem

Oct. 29

7 p.m.

Vs. St. Helens

At Forest Grove

SCAPPOOSE HIGH SCHOOL VOLLEYBALL Sept. 7

6:45 p.m.

At Milwaukie / Milwaukie Acad. of the Arts

Sept. 9

6:45 p.m.

At Hillsboro

Sept. 14

6:45 p.m.

Vs. Putnam

Sept. 16

6:45 p.m.

Vs. La Salle Prep

Sept. 21

6:45 p.m.

At Wilsonville

Sept. 23

7 p.m.

Sept. 27

6:45 p.m.

Vs. St. Helens

Sept. 29

6:45 p.m.

Vs. Milwaukie / Milwaukie Acad. of the Arts

Oct. 4

6:45 p.m.

Vs. Hillsboro

Oct. 6

6:45 p.m.

At Putnam

Oct. 12

6:45 p.m.

At La Salle Prep

Oct. 19

6:45 p.m.

Vs. Wilsonville

Oct. 21

6:45 p.m.

Vs. Parkrose

Oct. 25

6:45 p.m.

At St. Helens

At Parkrose

SCAPPOOSE HIGH SCHOOL BOYS CROSS COUNTRY Sept. 22 Oct. 6

3:30 p.m.

4 p.m.

NWOC St. Helens Hosts at McCormick Park Trojan Relays at Trojan Recreation Park

Lower Columbia FireMed What is FireMed? FireMed is an annual membership that covers any deductible or other portion of an ambulance bill not covered by your insurance.

What does it cost?

Only $50 per year for your entire household!* Do I have to have medical insurance to join?

No! Membership is open to everyone in the service area.

One small fee.

365 Days of Coverage.

Your entire family* (household members only).

Emergency transports to all local area hospitals.

Coverage extends throughout most of Oregon.

Contact Your Local Fire District to Enroll Today!

CRFR and Clatskanie Residents call 503-397-2990 Mist Birkenfeld Residents call 503-755-2710

IMPORTANT INFORMATION BROUGHT TO YOU BY YOUR LOCAL FIRE DISTRICT Columbia County’s trusted local news source