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FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 24, 2021
VOL. 130, NO. 20 Serving the Lower Columbia Region since 1891
Port Westward rezone approved JEREMY C. RUARK jruark@countrymedia.net
The Columbia County Board of Commissioners has approved the Port of Columbia County’s application to rezone 837 acres at Port Westward from Primary Agriculture to Resource Industrial Planned Development. The approval came at the county commissioners regular public meeting Wednesday, Sept. 22. The decision follows deliberations on the rezone efforts during the board of commissioner’s July meeting. The Columbia County Board of Commissioners previously approved the rezone application in 2014 and 2018. In its 2018 ruling, Oregon Land Use Board of Appeals (LUBA) remanded the application back to Columbia County for additional information on one point, asking for further analysis that the five allowed uses for the rezone property can be reasonably compatible with neighboring farms. “We are pleased that the Columbia County Commissioners continue to agree with the Port’s assessment that responsible industrial and agricultural uses can exist together as good neighbors as they have historically,” Columbia County Port Executive Director Doug Hayes said. “The Port has effectively answered the question of compatibility and now looks forward to moving in a positive direction for economic development in north Columbia County.” Port Westward is a deep-water port with existing dock facilities and direct access to the 43-foot
federal navigation channel in the Columbia River. The 837-acre expansion area at Port Westward will address the need, both at the local and state level, for industrial land. Prior to the rezone, there was no developable acreage at Port Westward that was not encumbered with wetlands, conservation easements, existing rural industrial facilities, transmission lines, or long-term leases. In its application the Port identified the deep-water port at Port Westward as the “unique resource” justifying the rezone, as specifically allowed in Oregon Administrative Rules. As a result, any business wanting to locate on the rezone property must be significantly dependent on the river port. The Port further limited the rezone property to five allowable uses: • Forestry and Wood Products processing, production, storage, and transportation • Dry Bulk Commodities transfer, storage, production, and processing • Liquid Bulk Commodities processing, storage, and transportation • Natural Gas and derivative products, processing, storage, and transportation • Breakbulk storage, transportation, and processing “It’s worth noting that LUBA
Courtesy photo from the Port of Columbia County
See PORT Page A6
Port Westward is a deepwater port with existing dock facilities and direct access to the 43-foot navigation channel in the Columbia River.
COVID-19 impact at local schools JEREMY C. RUARK jruark@countrymedia.net
Metro Creative Connection / The Chief
The Clatskanie School District reports two staff members and 10 students are quarantined.
COVID-19 cases among children in Oregon have been climbing over the past several weeks. Health officials have said the virus is not as severe in children as it is in adults. Clatskanie School District Superintendent Cathy Hurowitz said two staff members and 10 students are currently quarantined. “We are asking families to not send their students to school if they are having any COVID symptoms or if students do not feel well,” she said. “Most of our staff are vaccinated and we strongly recommend that students 12 and
older and eligible family members get vaccinated.” Hurowitz said in the event of an exposure, vaccinated staff or students do not have to quarantine if they are not showing symptoms. “We have the ability to do rapid testing for staff and students if they are showing symptoms,” she said. “The Health Center at Clatskanie Middle/High School is also able to test for COVID as well as provide vaccines on Tuesdays and Thursdays for anyone in the community.” The district has multiple levels of mitigation in the school buildings, from hand washing to desk barriers, and distancing. “All staff and students wear
masks except when eating,” she said. “We have lunch outdoors for the elementary students and at Clatskanie Middle/High School there are barriers set up on the lunch tables. All of our efforts are to keep staff and students safe.” The quarantined Clatskanie district students are receiving their school work from teachers through CANVAS or Google Classroom. According to Hurowitz, the Columbia County Health Department has been very responsive and collaborative during the pandemic. “They, like many state agencies, are understaffed,” Hurowitz said.
Rainier School District Since the beginning of the school year Rainier School District has had 18 positive cases among staff and students, according to Rainier School Superintendent Joseph Hattrick. “Any time we receive word that there is a positive case in our school community, we work directly with public health to determine who may have been exposed,” he said. “As a result, this year approximately 160 students and staff have been required to quarantine. When determining See COVID-19 Page A5
Job Recruiting: Searching for the right person JEREMY C. RUARK jruark@countrymedia.net
“We are starting again from scratch,” Rainier City Administrator Scott Jorgensen said as the city launches a third effort to hire a new police officer. Rainier is currently served by a police chief, sergeant and two patrol officers. The search for the third officer began in after May 10-year veteran officer Nolan Borders announced that he would retire June 1 of this year.
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“We began to look for a lateral police officer that can hit the ground running,” Jorgersen said. “With a new recruit, they have to go through the police academy and that takes time and money.” Jorgensen said during the first recruiting effort the city did not receive any applications. “We reopened the recruiting effort and we were willing to accept new recruits,” Jorgersen said. The city received approximately 12 applications for the police officer position and it set up a physical and written testing process. Jorgersen defined the physical portion of the testing as “rigorous by design.” “No candidates have been able to make it through the testing process,” he said. The challenges That meant that the recruiting process had to be started once again. Further challenging the effort
is the current political climate surrounding law enforcement. “Given the political climate of the last few years it has been increasingly difficult for police agencies to recruit and retain police officers,” Jorgersen said, adding that competition is also a key factor. “Many other agencies are also hiring,” he said. “The sheriffs office, St. Helens, Scappoose. It is extremely competitive right now for any city that is looking for police officers.” According to Jorgersen, other cities are adding hiring bonuses, assistance for house payments, and they are boosting pay to attract and retain officers. “Cities like Rainier simply cant afford to do that,” he said. “At the same time the officers we do have, have been here for a long time and they are very vested in See POLICE Page A3
Jeremy C. Ruark / The Chief
The City of Rainier is struggling in efforts to hire a new police officer.
Phone: 503-397-0116 Fax: 503-397-4093 chiefnews@countrymedia.net 1805 Columbia Blvd., St. Helens, OR 97051
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Friday, September 24, 2021
Wildfire threat remains, despite rainfall JEREMY C. RUARK jruark@countrymedia.net
Fire agencies across the region are easing some outdoor burn restrictions, following heavy rain showers that flowed across Columbia County and other parts of Oregon Friday, Sept. 17 and ending on Sunday, Sept. 19. It was the first significant rain seen in the area in several weeks but Columbia River Fire & Rescue Chief Joel Medina said the weekend showers are not enough to ease the local wildfire danger. “We have had days, weeks, months of incredibility dry weather,” he said. “One or two days of rain is not going to make up for all the time of incredibility hot, dry weather that we have had. We have a lot of conditions that still promote danger for fire and fire spread.” Because of the danger, Medina said the burn ban in Columbia County remains in place. The ban on outdoor burning was issued this summer by area fire agencies due to the prolonged drought and hot conditions. Medina said decisions to leave the burn ban depend on several conditions. “We could have another
day of rain, but the heat can come right back and dry up the little rain that we are having,” he said. “We need to see consistency (of rain), that consistency develops into a pattern, that pattern will allow us to have the data needed to make a good decision about lifting the fire ban. Rain totals According to meteorologist David Bishop at the National Service (NWS) in Portland, the most rain fell in St. Helens at 3.03 inches of rain from 8:30 a.m. Sept. 17 to Monday morning, Sept. 20. Columbia City and Scappoose received approximately 2.6 inches of rain. In north Columbia County, near Vernonia at the NWS recording station, 2.4 inches of was recorded. Columbia Country received light showers on Wednesday this week. There is a chance of rain Monday and Tuesday, but clearing and mild conditions are likely through most of the rest of next week, according to the NWS. Landslide danger Oregon Department of Transportation Public
Information Representative Lou Torres said ODOT continues to monitor the area for landslide issues. According to Torres, along most Oregon Coast Range and coastal highways there is always the chance of landslides occurring after heavy and prolonged rainfall. “However, that is not necessarily our main worry since the ground is very dry and will likely be able to absorb much of the initial rainfall,” Torres said. “If a steady and heavy rain continues for several days, then we will be more concerned with landslides. But travelers should always be on the look out for rock and landslides on U.S. Highway 30 and other roads when we start getting into rainy season. They can happen at any time.” ODOT and city and county public works crews across the region are now gearing up for fall and winter conditions to be ready to clear debris from roads and street gutters. Last winter, the crews were busy clearing several inches of snow that fell across Columbia County, challenging drivers and pedestrians.
Courtesy photo
Heavy rain over the past weekend help ease the statewide wildfire danger, but Columbia County fIre agencies continued the outdoor burn ban this week due to the continued wildfire threat.
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on the product in the OLCC cannabis tracking system to prevent further sales from OLCC licensed retailers. The Oregon Liquor and The recall affects this Cannabis Commission has issued a mandatory recall for specific product produced on May 14, 2021. The OLCC a product labeled as a hemp estimates approximately 500 tincture. units have been sold starting The OLCC said the June 19, 2021 and about 200 product can get consumers units remain in the invento“high” because it contains ries of OLCC retailers and undisclosed levels of THC. those items are required to Consumers using this be quarantined. mislabeled product may Customers who have become unexpectedly impurchased this product can paired. either return it to the OLCC The recall is for an item licensed retailer they purlabeled as a hemp CBD chased it from or destroy the tincture produced by Cura product. CS, LLC, and sold under its Consumers with healthSelect brand. The specific related concerns about this batch of this product Select ETERSENrecalled LARKE LLC ETERSEN LARKE LLC product should CBD Drops “Broad Speccontact the Oregon Poison trum” unflavored 1000 AAMG tt tt oo rr nn ee yy ss Center at 800-222-1222, or CBD was only available for their medical provider. (503) 556-4120 556-4120 (503) purchase through OLCC If consumers have other licensed retailers. product related complaints The OLCCColumbia has notified County’s Premier Columbia related toPremier this recall they cannabis retailers about the County’s should notify the OLCC at recall, and Personal has put a hold Injury Personal Injury Attorneys Attorneys STAFF REPORT chiefnews@countrymedia.net
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Efforts move ahead for CC Rider sustainability STAFF REPORT chiefnews@countrymedia.net
Columbia County Commissioners have approved a contract revision with MTR Western, LLC, the company that operates the CC Rider bus fleet. The revision completes the final component of the CC Rider Transit Program restructuring and setting the stage for service sustainability for the foreseeable future, according to a release from Columbia County. The contract revision reflects a rate adjustment that is a result of the service reduc-
tions implemented earlier this year and is retroactive to July 1, 2021. “The economy of scale comes into play. It costs a fixed amount to run the transit operation and even though the County has cut routes due to the pandemic causing a decrease in ridership, fixed costs remain the same,” Commissioner Henry Heimuller said. “The hourly rate had to be adjusted to compensate for that. That rate will be renegotiated as routes are added back. Again, the economy of scale.” When ridership on transit routes plummeted as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic,
the county opted to focus on CC Rider’s most utilized services, the St. Helens to Portland commuter route and Dial-A-Ride, and suspend service to extremely low ridership routes. The Dial-a-Ride program provides an important service for many residents of Columbia County by allowing them full freedom of mobility to travel within the County, according to Columbia County Transit Director John Dreeszen. “Dial-a-Ride is a valuable door-to-door transportation service for Columbia County veterans, seniors, people with
disabilities, and those who can’t use standard fixedroute transit,” Dreeszen said. “With Dial-a-Ride, they can more easily travel to medical appointments, meetings, running errands, or even buying groceries.” Columbia County Rider transit services are primarily grant-funded and provide lower-cost transportation than other popular alternatives available to county residents. Columbia County and CC Rider are committed to serving the County’s needs to the best of our ability with the resources that are currently available.
Jeremy C. Ruark / The Chief
The contract revision reflects a rate adjustment that is a result of the service reductions implemented earlier this year and is retroactive to July 1, 2021.
Ivermectin misuse sends 5 to hospital STAFF REPORT chiefnews@countrymedia.net
Five Oregonians have been hospitalized because they consumed a potent antiparasitic drug despite there being no clinical data supporting its use for COVID-19, according to Oregon Health & Science University (OHSU). The Oregon Poison Center strongly recommends the public only use scientifically proven and FDA-approved methods to combat the novel coronavirus. The Oregon Poison Center has managed 25 cases involving Oregonians intentionally misusing ivermectin to treat or prevent COVID-19 between Aug. 1 and Sept. 14. Five of those cases involved hospitalization, and two people were so severely ill that they had to be admitted to an intensive care unit. Although the Oregon Poison Center also serves Alaska and Guam, the vast majority of ivermectin cases it has managed this year have come from Oregon, according to OHSU. “COVID-19 is a devastating disease and can be very frightening, but the public does not need to use - nor should it use unproven and potentially dangerous drugs to fight it,”
POLICE From Page A1
the community and we want to keep it that way. So from our prospective, it is wroth taking the extra time to find someone who is a good fit for the department and the community.” The pay range for a new police officer in Rainier depends on experience. The staring salary for an entry level recruit police officer at Rainier is $4,302 per month. Lateral police officers start at a higher salary, again depending on experience. The top pay range is $5,491 per month. The city also offers offer benefits, including paid holidays, health care insurance and different incentives for certifications. The police office’s duties include responsibility and emphasis on community police. “That is very important to the city council, city staff and
Metro Creative Connection / The Chief
The Oregon Poison Center has managed 25 cases involving Oregonians intentionally misusing ivermectin to treat or prevent COVID-19 between Aug. 1 and Sept. 14.
Medical Director of the Oregon Poison Center Robert Hendrickson said. Hendrickson said that health care providers can help COVID patients by prescribing treatments that are already carefully tested and approved. “And vaccination, in combination with masking, physical distancing, frequent hand-washing and other measures, continues to be the best way to avoid getting infected,” he said. The Oregon Poison Center’s recent cases involved a variety of symptoms, including mental confusion, balance issues, low blood pressure and seizure. The patients were in their 20s through their 80s, our citizens,” Jorgersen said. “Community policing is all about having a regular presence and responding to calls. It is very important to us to be responsive. Our police are a very important community resource.” Jorgersen said the city has not set a deadline to find a new police officer. “We will keep advertising and recruiting until we find the right person,” he said. Clatskanie law enforcement Due to city budget limitations, the Clatskanie City Council closed its city police department and in 2016 Clatskanie contracted with the Columbia County Sheriff’s Office (CCSO) for law enforcement services. “I believe the policing contract between the city of Clatskanie and CCSO has been a tremendous partnership,” Columbia County Sheriff Brian Pixley said. “We have increased the policing activities within
although most were older than 60. The cases were fairly evenly split between both men and women, and between people attempting to either prevent or treat COVID-19. Some cases involved individuals obtaining a prescription for either human or veterinary forms of the drug. Both the Food and Drug Administration and Merck, which makes ivermectin for human use, have announced there is no scientific data that supports its use for COVID-19. Neither the FDA nor the National Institutes of Health have endorsed its use for COVID-19, and OHSU doesn’t recommend any use of ivermectin for COVID-19. Initial lab research indicated ivermectin might be able to treat COVID-19, but when tested in human trials, ivermectin did not decrease symptoms or cure the disease. Ivermectin is approved to treat some parasites in people and some animals. Those who experience COVID-19 symptoms or are exposed to COVID-19 are encouraged to contact their primary care provider for assistance, and to only go to an emergency department if they are experiencing severe symptoms and need emergency medical assistance. Oregonians who don’t have a primary care pro-
vider or have COVID-19 questions can call the OHSU COVID-19 Connected Care Center hotline: 833-6478222. Those who take ivermectin for COVID-19 and have symptoms or questions can also call the Oregon Poi-
son Center: 800-222-1222. If you or a loved one is experiencing a poison emergency, call the Oregon Poison Center at 800-2221222. A trained health care provider is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
The call is free and confidential. Poison prevention education and other poison safety resources are available at https://www.ohsu.edu/ oregon-poison-center.
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the city and are saving them money. It also increases our community relationships within Columbia County.” City leaders, including Clatskanie City Manager Greg Hinkelman and Clatskanie Mayor Bob Bracjich, also praised the law enforcement contract with CCSO. In July 2020, the city and CCSO enhanced the contact by adding a fulltime deputy to be stationed at Clatskanie. Read the history of the law enforcement transition in Clatskanie in a series of articles posted at thechiefnews.com. Pixley said his agency is open to serving other communities, such as Rainier for example, if that city deemed such efforts necessary. “The Columbia County Sheriff’s Office would welcome policing contracts with any cities within Columbia County,” Pixley said. “Often times we can offer more coverage at a reduced cost to the city.”
Clatskanie Arts Commission presents
Rock Violinist Aaron Meyer with his 5-piece band Saturday, October 2, 2021 7:30 p.m. Birkenfeld Theatre in the Clatskanie Cultural Center 75 S. Nehalem, Clatskanie, OR Tickets: Adults $20, Seniors 60+ and Students $18, Children 12 and under $16. Available at clatskaniearts.org, at the door the night of the concert. You may also reserve tickets by calling Elsa at 503.728.3403. Masks required by State mandate
Aaron Meyer, Concert Rock Violinist, will perform familiar songs and classical pieces twith the added excitement of his virtuosic rock band featuring Jeramy Burchett on drums, Christian Kinyon on guitar, Jean-Pierre Garau on keyboard and Dave Captein on bass. His performance in Clatskanie includes: The Barber of Seville, Bohemian Rapsody, Eleanor Rigby, Sultans of Swing, Lawrence of Arabia, Let it Be, Mozart’s Marriage of Figaro, and more.
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Friday, September 24, 2021
•V iewpoints • •
New Year, new way, fresh start GRACE TALLMAN CADENCE DOAN Chief Guest Column
This school year certainly feels different than any year before. Looking ahead, we are excited for the opportunity to change traditions and make memories in different ways. Though we know it may be even more work than what we are used to, the leadership class is excited for these new opportunities. We have many ideas on how we can create an enjoyable school environment and
it starts with making sure our students feel both connected and recognized. The beautiful thing about finally being back together again is that you can see just how much the students missed it. After a time when so many of us felt disconnected, it is now even more important for us to use our leadership roles as a positive example. As students ourselves, we have struggled with staying motivated these past two years. Especially when we were fully remote learning. For us though, just getting to be back in the building again
After a time when so many of us felt disconnected, it is now even more important for us to use our leadership roles as a positive example. really boosted our motivation. “To be able to connect with my fellow peers and teachers through something other than a computer screen was really all I needed,” says ASB President, Grace Tall-
man. The biggest challenge will be keeping this same level of motivation among students. As the school year goes on we tend to lose the excitement that we had at the beginning of the year. We hope to implement a new idea this year called connection weeks to help solve this problem. The idea of giving students a relaxing week where they have time to really connect with and get to know their peers better is something that was brought to our attention at a recent leadership training. These events would take place at
the time of the year when students need it most. For example, it would give them a reason to look forward to rather than dread the week after Winter Break or the week before Finals Week. We feel that by providing students something like this we can help to encourage positive mental health, while also improving school spirit. Now, more than ever, is a time for us to use our leadership roles for the betterment of our school. ASB VicePresident, Cadence Doan, hopes “that we are able to create an environment where
everyone feels welcome and safe, and that coming into the building continues to be something people look forward to throughout the year.” Despite the circumstances, we hope to make this school year one that all students will remember for years to come. Grace Tallman is the ASB President at Clatskanie Middle/High School. Cadence Doan is the ASB Vice President at Clatskanie Middle/High School. Both are seniors. Clatskanie Middle/ High School may be reached at 503-728-2146.
Mental health takes center stage in Oregon’s schools B BRACE BULLOCK Chief Guest Column
The conversation around mental health has taken center stage, with Selena Gomez, Simone Biles, Michael Phelps, and Pac12 football players emphasizing the need to pay attention to warning signs of depression, anxiety, and chronic stress, and reminding us that it’s OK to ask for help. Mental health is central to our quality of life. It is also a cornerstone of education. Prioritizing mental health is essential to make sure that students can learn, and teachers can teach. One of the best ways to foster mental health is
through building healthy relationships. That is why the Oregon Department of Education (ODE) launched the Care and Connection Campaign; to encourage schools throughout the state to create time and space each day for students and staff to nurture social bonds, and to foster welcoming, inclusive communities. Decades of research shows that caring for and connecting with others positively impacts brain development, enhances learning, and bolsters stress resilience. This means that making time and space for reflection and connection is fundamental to learning, growth and development
particularly in times of challenge and uncertainty. School districts across the state can promote student mental health by dedicating time each day to activities that build care, connection and community, and allowing staff and students the opportunity to make meaning of their experiences. Many of Oregon’s schools have already started the new year with welcoming banners and celebrations, with some literally rolling out red carpets or bringing in the marching band. Staff across the state are using “getting to know you” exercises, and greeting students at the classroom
door each day. They’re using art, music, movement, nature, and fun games like building towers out of dried spaghetti and marshmallows as opportunities for students to express themselves and get to know each other before diving into books and learning. These types of activities and trust building exercises are particularly important and meaningful now, as many students spent much of last year apart from their peers and trusted adults outside their home. There are many students, families and staff for whom returning to in-person school may be particularly stressful, such as those in communities
disproportionately impacted by COVID-19, or who have personally been impacted by illness or loss. These include members of tribes here in Oregon and Indigenous, Black, Latinx, Asian, and Pacific Islander communities, LGBTQ students, and those experiencing a disability, navigating poverty, and many in Oregon’s rural communities. We must make sure all students, families and staff are recognized for their strength, and receive the support they need throughout the year. The best part about building communities of care and connection is that it doesn’t have to stop with the
first weeks of school. Once students, families and staff begin to incorporate care and connection activities into school and home life, these actions can become a daily practice that builds strong, trusting bonds. Together we can build healthy, welcoming, and strong communities across Oregon, and give students, families and staff the tools they need to meet the challenges of today, and pave the way for a strong tomorrow. B Grace Bullock, PhD. is the Senior Mental Health Officer at the Oregon Department of Education. She may be reached at Grace. Bullock@ode.state.or.us
Thank you, Sheriff Pixley BRAD VANEK Chief Guest Column
It seems Sheriff Pixley is getting bashed for standing up for our civil liberties. Politics and subsequent overreaching government that can destroy our freedom at the whisk of a pen, should always have reasonable debate to challenge its often authoritarian, political stances. This virus has been politicized from the very onset and the so-called science for the effectiveness of masks has never been authenticated by any fact-based studies. But the case for the opposite seems to have more teeth and is largely unreported. Why? Are we just satisfied with
appearing physically safe or secure or should we advance our thinking to allow “all” science into the debate? So, we get this mandate from both elected officials and appointed ones that are powerfully disguised as concern for the health and wellbeing of the people. CDC guidelines have been all over the map and thus have lost credibility. So, not backed by any specific scientific details, they are issuing blanket assumptions that are not working are we to keep shutting down our society, in turn arresting law-abiding citizens, by pursuing a very rough guesstimate of how to eradicate rather than live with this virus. Is there a “cure” for the common cold? It seems that Sheriff
Pixley is prioritizing the needs of Columbia County residents by concentrating on crime, drug laboratories, domestic abuse/disputes, tangible/immediate emergencies, etc. Public safety goes well beyond enforcing a mandate that generally has the weight of people’s livelihoods as a huge side effect. Reason and common sense go a long way towards securing our freedom and liberties. Ever reaching authoritarian mandates will destroy a free society. Thank you, Sheriff Pixley for getting our constitutionally granted liberties at the forefront of this discussion. Brad Vanek is a Rainier resident.
Open letter to Governor Brown ANTHONY SORACE Chief Guest Column
Dear Governor Brown, I am writing you today because I was dismayed by the letter sent to you by Sheriff Brian Pixley on August 19th. Please know that, despite the claims in the letter, it does not represent the views of the residents of Columbia County as a whole. Many of us — and certainly I, personally — are grateful for your efforts to protect our community. We recognize the incredibly difficult job you’ve been given, and while nobody is happy about the need for ongoing restrictions, we thank you for acting with integrity in making the difficult choices. Together, our public health professionals, researchers, doctors, nurses, and other medical professionals have given us the tools we need to beat this pandemic. We have vaccines which are highly effective, including against the Delta variant, and remarkably safe. We know that, unfortunately, the vaccines alone are not enough against this more contagious variant, but that combined with wearing a mask and
simple limits on gatherings, we can end this threat. But doing so relies on everyone doing their part. That includes all of us, individually, doing what we can; it also includes our elected officials and public servants helping to protect us, especially those in our community who’re unable to protect themselves. While we agree the Sheriff is responsible for protecting our community in various ways, his letter felt like an abdication of that responsibility. Protecting our community must include helping to protect us from a pandemic which has taken the lives of 673,637 Americans, 3,569 Oregonians, and 37 residents of our county — a number which includes a member of my family — and subjected many more to grave, often ongoing, illness. Since the Sheriff’s letter, we all hoped he’d reconsider his professional and moral obligations, as well as the needs of our county. While I believe he owes our community an explanation, it is encouraging to see that he has, at least, softened his position and he and his staff have been helping to enforce the mask mandate, at least in
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limited cases. We encourage Sheriff Pixley to talk with our excellent County Public Health Department or the many dedicated physicians who work here to better understand the risks we face and how best to manage them. We’re grateful that we have competent and thoughtful leadership at the state level, working to protect us all; we know that not every state has that advantage, and results speak for themselves. But we know that we’re by no means out of the woods. Beating this pandemic, and the Delta variant in particular, depends on everyone doing their civic duty to help protect their family, their neighbors, and their community by getting vaccinated if they’re able and wearing masks when appropriate. Governor, our thanks go out to you, the folks at Oregon Health Authority, and the many others who continue to work so hard to get us through this as quickly as possible. Anthony Sorace Chair, Columbia County Democrats Central Committee
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Weekly Online Poll Should employers be required to terminate employees who refuse to follow the government’s mask and vaccine mandates?
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•V oices
Open Letter to Columbia County Commissioners As a native Clatskanie resident, I feel you, my alleged representatives have sold out our small-town businesses, farmers, loggers, fishermen and women and children to outside influences. I was thrilled to read Columbia County Sheriff Brian Pixley’s letter to Kate Brown supporting our civil rights as free individuals. “We the people” as individuals will stand together to defend our United States Constitution and Bill of Rights. Read them. Thank you for my freedom to speak my truth.
of the
C ommunity • •
In fearless truth and love, your neighbor, Sandra Moilanen Clatskanie
Commends Sheriff Pixley It is with dismay that I have read so many negative comments in the newspapers regarding the recent letter written by Sheriff Pixley to Gov. Brown. And I wonder if there were positive letters that were simply ignored or were there no positive letters at all. I am also amazed that the content and the intent of the sheriff’s letter was misunderstood or was it just ignored? The sheriff did not say that you should not wear a mask around others. It did not say that you should not
get the vaccine shot. It simply said that since he has sworn to uphold the Constitution he would not enforce the unconstitutional mandates that Gov. Brown was trying to jam down everyone’s throat. He was stating that the citizens of Columbia County should have the ability to make their own decision regarding their own health. That’s how it works in a constitutional republic. I am not an anti-vaxxer. I am not an anti-masker. I have chosen to get vaccinated and I will wear a mask when I choose to. Not because Kate Brown tells me to. I commend Sheriff Pixley for vowing to protect my (and your) constitutional right to make my own health decisions. Doug Walker St. Helens
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Friday, September 24, 2021
A5
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SUBSTITUTE SCHOOL BUS DRIVERS NEEDED Pay starting at $17.12 per hour, paid in-house training to get Class B CDL, great hours, weekends off, paid holidays and great benefits. For more information, call (503)7282422 or fill out an application on the Clatskanie School District school website www.csd.k12. or.us.AA/EOE
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Public Notices PROTECTING YOUR RIGHT TO KNOW
CC21-1512
CC21-1513
SEEKING REQUEST FOR QUALIFICATIONS IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE STATE OF OREGON FOR THE COUNTY OF COLUMBIA (RFO) FOR GRANT ADMINISTRATOR 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.
The Public Notice deadline is Wednesdays by noon. Late submissions are not guaranteed to make it into the paper.
COVID-19 From Page A1
potential exposure, Public health looks at proximity, adherence to mask wearing, indoor or outdoor, type of exposure, vaccination status, along with other factors. Hattrick said the district have been informing parents of the mandates and in a letter that he was planning to send out to parents this week, Hattrict said he recognizes that the pandemic has become “overly politicized.” In the letter, Hattrick asks parents and families to: • Treat your child’s school, teacher, administrator, and others with grace and understanding as we are simply doing what is necessary to limit the impact of COVID-19 on our community. • Please keep yourself or child(ren) home if any symptoms are present. • Please wear a mask when around others. • Talk to your doctor about the vaccine and contact the Rainier Health Clinic or our district nurse if you are interested in receiving a vaccination. Rainier has been providing a vaccine clinic through the health clinic on campus every Thursday for those interested. Hattrick said Columbia County Public Health has been consistent in providing the Rainier School District the support it needs. “What school districts and public health are going through is challenging but through teamwork between agencies we have been able to do what is necessary,” he said. “I believe one thing the pandemic is showing us is that COVID doesn’t discriminate and it is important that when students, staff, families, or community contract COVID or need to quarantine, there should be no blame or judgement. I have been incredibly appreciative of those families who have kept the district
informed of positive cases and symptoms so we can continue to work to keep our community safe.” Hattrick said this is a challenging time. “My hope is that the community will continue to work together to ensure we all remain safe and navigate this pandemic together,” he said. Across the country Weekly COVID-19–associated hospitalization rates among children and adolescents rose nearly fivefold during late June–midAugust 2021, coinciding with increased circulation of the highly transmissible SARS-CoV-2 Delta variant, according to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). The proportions of hospitalized children and adolescents with severe disease were similar before and during the period of Delta predominance. Hospitalization rates were 10 times higher among unvaccinated than among fully vaccinated adolescents. According to the CDC, the fillowing are the symptoms of COVID-19 among children that parents should watch for: • Fever • Fatigue • Headache • Myalgia • Cough • Nasal congestion or rhinorrhea • New loss of taste or smell • Sore throat • Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing • Abdominal pain • Diarrhea • Nausea or vomiting • Poor appetite or poor feeding Vaccinations for children Children in Columba County, across Oregon and the United States may soon be able to receive COVID-19 vaccinations. According to a report in the American Academy of Pediatrics, children account
for more than one in five new COVID-19 cases. As of September 16, over 5.5 million children have tested positive for COVID-19 since the onset of the pandemic. Nearly 226,000 cases were added the past week, the third highest number of child cases in a week since the pandemic began, the American Academy of Pediatrics reports. Oregon health officials have been closely monitoring the cases of COVID-19 in youth in the state and have said the virus is less severe in children. Pfizer-BioNTech announced this week that its coronavirus vaccine is safe and effective for children aged 5 to 11 years. The companies have applied to the Federal Food and Drug Administration for emergency use authorization. The use of the drug for children could be available within 30 days. COVID case report statewide The Oregon Health Authority (OHA) reported 26 new COVID-19 related deaths on Sept. 22 and 29 deaths in Oregon Sept. 21, including two new deaths in Columbia County, raising the state’s death toll to 3,649. Oregon’s 3,602nd COVID-19 related death is a 47-year-old man from Columbia County who tested positive on Sept. 10 and died on Sept. 14. Location of death and presence of underlying conditions are being confirmed. Oregon’s 3,603rd COVID-19 related death is an 80-year-old man from Columbia County who tested positive on Sept. 1 and died on Sept. 11 at PeaceHealth St. John Medical Center in Longview. Presence of underlying conditions is being confirmed. The OHA reported 2,312 new confirmed and presumptive cases of COVID-19, including 33 in Columbia County, Wednesday, Sept. 22, bringing the state total to 317,107.
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.
•O bituaries • • Donna Neer
Feb. 3, 1935 ~ Aug. 27, 2021 Donna Neer, beloved wife and mother, passed on Aug. 27, 2021 at Evergreen Memory care in Eugene, Oregon. She was born on Feb. 3, 1935 in Havre, Montana to Bernice Charpentier and George Moore. She grew up in Lewiston, Idaho and graduated from Lewiston High School in 1954. Donna was married to Ronald Neer on Nov. 7, 1955. They had a daughter and two sons and moved to Clatskanie, Oregon in 1966. From 1967-1978 Donna and Ron owned and operated the Westport Motel. She was an avid crafter,
keeping herself busy with ceramics, needlepoint, painting, Square Dancing and her love of fishing. Donna and Ron spent their
retirement years in Wellton, Arizona. Donna is survived by her husband Ron of Eugene, Oregon; three children, Rhonda Ryder of Texas, Keith Neer of Texas, and Steven Neer of Eugene, Oregon; 10 grandchildren; and 31 greatgrandchildren. Interment will be at Hudson Cemetery in Rainier, Oregon. A luncheon to celebrate Donna’s life will be held at 1 p.m. on Sat., Oct. 16, 2021 at Grant’s in the Monticello Hotel in Longview, Washington. Family and friends are invited to attend.
William “Bill” Carl Patterson July 29, 1944 ~ July 5, 2021
William “Bill” Carl Patterson, age 77, of Rainier, Oregon passed away at Canterbury Inn on July 5, 2021 after a long battle of Alzheimer’s. Bill was born in Vancouver, Washington on July 29, 1944 to Carl and Doris Patterson. He went to school in Rainier and Clatskanie. At the age of 17 he joined the Navy to serve his country. Bill married Carol Self in 1963, and had three children, Dorothy, Kenny, and Mark. He divorced Carol in 1977, and married Jan Gunter in February 1978. With this marriage he gained three children, Johnny, Yvonne, and Dotty. Bill and Jan were happily married for 42 years. As a teen Bill worked in Clatskanie, doing a variety of jobs: haying, milking cows, and taking care of other animals on many farms before joining the Navy. After the Navy, he worked at the International Paper and retired from Longview Fibre.
Bill is survived by his children, Johnny (Lisa) Hill, Yvonne Hill, Dorothy (Mark) Brezeale, Ken (Karen) Patterson, Mark (Laura) Patterson, Dotty (Steve) Prescott; sisterin-law Betty Beardsley and her husband John; 13 grandchildren; and 13 great grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his wife Jan Patterson; parents, Doris and Carl Patterson; sister Dena Veldink; and best friend Lenord Melland of many
years whom Bill fondly called Paco. Bill loved going deer and elk hunting, camping in Eastern Oregon, riding ATV’s and anything adventurous. He enjoyed spending time with his family out on the boat for fun and fishing. One of his favorite pastimes was clam digging. He joked with his work crew while having coffee on Tuesdays for many years. Bill loved joking with his family and loved life! There will be a celebration of life at 2 p.m. on Friday, Oct. 1, 2021 at Alston’s Corner Assembly of God, 25272 Alston Road, Rainier, Oregon 97048. We will have a potluck following the service. Family would appreciate it if you would wear a mask for health and safety. We also will be celebrating the passing of Bill’s wife Jan, who passed on Nov. 5, 2019 and we were unable to have a service due to COVID restrictions.
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A6
• 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 Sept. 17 • Just before 2 p.m. Oregon State Police conducted a traffic stop on a Honda Civic for a lane violation. During the course of the traffic stop it was determined the driver was suspended, uninsured and the driver had an open container of alcohol. The driver was not impaired to a noticeable and perceptible degree. The vehicle was towed by Grumpys as a hazard and was blocking access to a residence Sept. 18 • At approximately 12:03 p.m. Oregon State Police assisted the Scappoose Police Department with a DUII crash on Scappoose-Vernonia Highway off of Highway 30. The Oregon State Police provided traffic control until power lines were repaired. OSP also provided coverage in Scappoose while their officer had to follow the driver to the hospital in Portland. Sept. 19 • At approximately 1:20 p.m.
PORT
From Page A1 has never denied the Port’s rezone application,” Hayes said. “The application was remanded by LUBA, which means they sent it back for additional information, analysis, and consideration at the local level. This is a common process for significant land use decisions.” While there has been support for the rezone based on its economic opportunities, there has also been opposition based on concerns about farm land erosion and environmental issues such as flooding and pollution. Environmental watchdog
OSP Troopers were advised of a group of vehicles driving recklessly on Highway 30 near milepost 36. Associated vehicles were located and stopped by OSP and St. Helens PD in the St. Helens and Warren Oregon area. All parties were interviewed and the investigation is ongoing. Sept. 10 • At about 10:35 a.m. The Oregon State Police assisted the Scappoose Police Department with a traffic crash turned fight in progress in the area of NE 2nd Street and Crown Zellerbach Road in Scappoose, Oregon. OSP assisted by interviewing witnesses to the traffic crash and physical confrontation that ensued. SPD arrested the suspect for DUII, Reckless Driving, Reckless Endangering and Disorderly Conduct 2. Sept. 11 • At about 3:26 p.m. OSP Troopers responded to assist Columbia City Police with an intoxicated driver. The driver was displaying indicators of impairment and was asked to perform sobriety tests. The driver later denied consent to compete testing and was subsequently arrested for DUII. The driver was transported to the Columbia County Jail. A search warrant was obtained and two vials of blood was seized as evidence. The driver was cited and released for DUII. The vehicle was driven from the scene by the driver’s wife. Rainier Police Sept. 1 • A caller reported witnessing
•B lotter • •
a man beating on a car and the woman throwing belongings out of the car. Neither person was there when officers arrived. • A woman was upset stating that a business was going to kick her out. Peace was able to be restored. Sept. 2 • Officers assisted two former roommates that were having a dispute. Peace was restored. Sept. 3 • A backpack was turned in as found property. Sept. 6 • A helmet and cell phone were stolen from a motorcycle parked on East A Street. • A counterfeit twenty dollar bill was passed at a local establishment by an unknown person. • A vehicle was reported as stolen from the marina parking lot. Sept. 9 • A 39-year-old Rainier resident was taken into custody on an outstanding warrant. • Officers responded to a single vehicle non-injury accident near the fire department. St. Helens Police Sept. 3 • Police investigated an attempted theft from the ATM in the 200 block of Strand Street. Sept. 4 • Police arrested a 33-yearold male near 20th Street for unlawful use of a weapon, menacing-aggravated physical
Columbia Riverkeeper’s Conservation Director Dan Serres said in a published interview in The Chief in July following the commissioners deliberations about the rezone, that his group will appeal the commissioner’s decision to the Oregon Land Use Board of Appeals. In a conversation following the commissioners approval Sept. 22, The Chief gains further insight from Hayes about the next steps with the rezoning.
fect. If no appeals are made to the Land Use Board of Appeals (LUBA) the rezone will be completed and official, changing the property adjacent to the current Port Westward Industrial Park from Primary Agriculture 80 zone to the Resource Industrial Planned Development (RIPD) zone.
The Chief: What now will be the next steps for development with this project?
Hayes: Rural industrial uses would be possible through a conditional use process, only if they are substantially dependent on the river port and are one of the five allowed uses. See above.
Hayes: There is now a 21-day appeal period before the approval goes into ef-
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Friday, September 24, 2021
The Chief: What industries, businesses will best fit in this development effort and why?
or weapon, residential burglary I, criminal mischief, theft II, and criminal trespass. • Police took a report of larceny of a bicycle in the 700 block of Matzen Street. Sept. 6 • Police arrested a 54-yearold male in the 2100 block of Gable Road for a warrant. • Police responded to a missing person call in the 1600 block of Old Portland Road. • Police arrested a 28-year-old individual for misdemeanor stalking. • Police cited and released a 42-year-old female near Columbia Boulevard for DWS/ DWR misdemeanor. • Police arrested a 57-year-old individual in the 200 block of Crouse Way on aggravated assault-weapons. Sept. 7 • Police responded to a report of larceny-other in the 2000 block of Gable Road. • Police arrested a 28-yearold male in the 500 block of E Street for violation of a release agreement. • Police investigated a burglary near the 300 block of 10th Street. Sept. 8 • Police arrested a 35-year-old individual on a detainer at the 900 block of Port Avenue. Sept. 10 • Police arrested a 24-yearold male on DUII-Drugs and reckless driving near Columbia River Highway. Sept. 12 • Police arrested a 25-year-old The Chief: What businesses/industries have applied or are expected to apply for development at the site? Hayes: The Port still has an Option to Lease Agreement with NW Innovation Works (NWIW) for the rezone property, which they have given no indication that they are pursuing. According to their statement to the Port, NWIW has temporized all business activity in the Pacific Northwest, including closing their Kalama office. The Port continues to field many calls from interested parties in the acreage at Port Westward, but no meaningful discussions will take place until the land is
individual on DUII-Alcohol at the 30000 block of Ruby Court. Sept. 13 • Police arrested a 53-yearold male in the 2000 block of Oregon Street on a warrant. Sept. 14 • Police responded to the theft of a catalytic converter at the 900 block of Oregon Street. Scappoose Police Sept. 9 • Police responded to the report of a theft in the 52000 block of NE 1st Street. The victim reported that an unknown suspect broke into the toolbox in her vehicle and stole an assortment of tools. This case is suspended due to a lack of leads. • Police were dispatched to the report of a damaged vehicle near the intersection of W Lane Rd. and NE Porter Lane. It was reported that one of the tires on the vehicle had been cut in the side wall. This case is suspended due to a lack of leads. • Police took report of a minor motor vehicle accident in the 33000 block of SW Adam Court. It was reported the driver hit a parked car and caused minor damage to both vehicles. No injuries were reported and no citations were issued. Sept. 10 • Police were dispatched to a DUII crash near the intersection of Crown Zellerbach Road. and NE 2nd Street. Following the investigation, A 52-yearold male from Scappoose was taken into custody for Recklessly Endangering Another x properly zoned. When land is appropriately zoned and available, the Port will be marketing the property and open to discussions with developers. The Chief: What does the Port see as the monetary value of this new development to Columbia County? Hayes: Because there is no new development approved, we cannot put any hard numbers to this. But using the existing industry operations currently sited at Port Westward and the NEXT Renewable Fuels project as examples, any development will require a large capital investment and generate high wage jobs.
3, Disorderly Conduct II, Reckless Driving and DUII. He was transported and lodged in jail. Sept. 11 • Police responded to the report of a theft at Fred Meyer. It was reported that the suspect was in the loss prevention office. Following the investigation, A 29 year-old Scappoose resident was cited and released on the charge of Theft II. Sept. 15 • Police were dispatched to the report of a trespasser in the 51000 block of SW Old Portland Road. It was reported that a subject was sleeping near the fence line of the property. Following the investigation, A 41-year-old houseless man was cited and released for Trespass II. Sept. 17 • While attempting to make a traffic stop, a vehicle fled the scene from police. Following a short pursuit,the vehicle crashed near the intersection of Siercks Road and Pisgah Home Road. Following the investigation, a 40-year-old St. Helens man was taken into custody on two outstanding felony warrants and additional charges of Reckless Driving, Eluding a Police Officer and DWS-Misdemeanor. The man was transported to jail where he was lodged on his charges. His passenger in the vehicle reported no injuries due to the crash and was released at the scene. The Columbia County Sheriff’s logs were not available at press time. The Chief: How many acres are involved in this development? Hayes: Just to be clear, there are no development plans, this is rezoning only. The rezone is for 837 acres, some of which will be used for development and some of which will be used for buffer areas by current Port agricultural tenants. The specific number of acres involved in the rural industrial development will depend on the type of projects that get approved. Read a series of reports about the Port Westward rezoning debate at thechiefnews.com and follow new developments in the Friday print editions of The Chief.
•C rossword P uzzle • • STATEPOINT CROSSWORD THEME: WORLD SERIES ACROSS
1. Locker room infection? 6. Vow at #41 Across 9. Smoke plus fog 13. Veranda in Honolulu 14. Salmon on a bagel 15. Hindu religious teacher 16. To the left, on a boat 17. Hula dancer’s necklace 18. Cheryl Strayed on the Pacific Crest Trail, e.g. 19. *Winningest World Series team 21. *Infield shape 23. Acronym, abbr. 24. Make or break, e.g. 25. Repellent brand 28. Minimal distortion 30. Loathes 35. Make children 37. Low-____ diet 39. Cry of the Alps 40. Swarm like bees 41. Location of #6 Across vow 43. Tiny piece 44. Lack of intestinal movement 46. Siren’s song 47. Buffalo lake 48. Makes sense, 2 words 50. “Aid and ____” 52. “Game, ____, match”
53. Like time with Bill Maher 55. Road, in Rome 57. *Current baseball champions 61. *Won in NLCS or ALCS 65. Mode of communication 66. “____ Now or Never” 68. Styluses 69. *____ Martin, 5-time World Series champion 70. Bad-mouth 71. Upright in position 72. Let it stand, to proofreader 73. Is, in Paris 74. Rodeo rope
DOWN
1. Kill 2. Spanish appetizer 3. Any minute, arch. 4. Winter cover 5. Of advanced technology, colloquially 6. Bad wishes 7. Buck’s partner 8. Nitrous ____, a.k.a. laughing gas 9. Sink or this? 10. Type of shark 11. Damien’s prediction 12. To put a girdle on
15. Showing signs of wear and tear 20. Writer ____ Jong 22. Retirement plan acronym 24. Like a Zoom session 25. Port of old Rome 26. *____ of dreams? 27. Let out of jail 29. *____ Classic 31. *Runner’s destination 32. Frankincense and myrrh, but not gold 33. Adjust, as laces 34. Between rain and snow 36. Outback birds 38. Prickle on a wire 42. “Super” Christopher 45. Definitely 49. p in mpg 51. Glittery decoration 54. Digression 56. Bone hollows 57. Young female socialites, for short 58. Fail to mention 59. Earnhardt of racing fame 60. Coating of aurum 61. Attention-getting sound 62. Pirates’ affirmatives 63. *ALCS counterpart 64. *Nickname of Red Sox manager who won two World Series 67. “____ the season ...”
Solution to crossword in next week’s issue of The Chief Columbia County’s trusted local news source
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Friday, September 24, 2021
A7
Classmates of 1951 share memories STAFF REPORT chiefnews@countrymedia.net
Classmates from Clatskanie High School class of 1951 are looking ahead to their next reunion. Doug Hoffman has shared the following information about the classmates most recent gathering. The alumni of Clatskanie High School Class of 1951 met Sept. 5, at Fultano’s Pizza for their 70th class reunion. For more than three hours, the five octogenarians shared stories, photographs, laughs, and memories. Yearbooks made the rounds, as did schoolyard tales told about one another. Sue (Schwegler) Engbret-
son of Hermiston, contacted the ten remaining classmates of the twenty-eight, and along with her husband, Ron Engbretson (class of 1948) found that three other graduates were able to join them. Howard Hurst brought his wife Joy up from Arizona, and was told by Pat (Hagerup) Smith that, “He was the rascal that dipped my braid in the inkwell!” Lorna (Burns) Hamil reminded all that it was ‘She Who Controlled the Flashlight’ at the cinema and would shine it on her friend when Sue and Ron were “getting too smoochie” in the back row. The group agreed to meet for their 75th in five short years.
Pictured are 1951 classmates Howard Hurst, Lorna (Burns) Hamil, Sue (Schwegler) Engbretson and Pat (Hagerup) Smith.
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Courtesy photo
•W ho W e A re • •
Who We Are: Nothing will hold him back DIANA BOSETTI pilotnews@countrymedia.net
Traversing the 402-mile Oregon Coast Trail, dubbed OCT by seasoned hikers, involves disconnected and sometimes unsafe routes that require the navigation of tidal flows in order to proceed. Add to that a diagnosis of cystic fibrosis - a condition that mimics breathing through a straw - and 25-year-old Colton Cosby’s ambition might best be described as not a challenge, but rather a struggle. Not that Cosby, or “CJ” as short for Colton James Cosby, saw it that way. He completed the trail solo on September 20, carrying a portable nebulizer in his 30-pound backpack in case he needed supplemental mist to open his airways. Ironically, when asked what was most challenging about the expedition, Cosby’s response was downright common - “My feet hurt,” he said. The entire venture took 29 days to complete, or as Cosby described it: four miles per hour; 26 nights of pitching a tent; one night in a hiker hut; one night in a Motel 6 (to shower and wash some clothes), and some unfortunate
road walking along the 101 where 10% of the trail isn’t rooted in nature. “That’s when my feet would hurt,” said Cosby, who at a stature of 210 pounds talked about the trek with a boyish nature. “But I needed to do this first. I plan to do the Ice Age Trail in May or June of next year, and that’s 1,200 miles over the entire state of Wisconsin.” A quick Google search pegs the Oregon Coast Trail at 362 miles. But that doesn’t account for the road walking that Cosby said he had to trudge between established walking paths and camp sites - hence the extra and arduous 40 miles that Cosby said he wished the Oregon state park system would invest funds towards, in the interest of not only his feet, but the safety of those who tackle the trail. Used to obstacles Cosby, who lives in Douglas County and finished his trek at the Oregon/California border in Curry County, is used to obstacles, however, and isn’t easily deterred. Near the age of 5, Cosby had not yet begun to speak. His adoptive parents learned sign language
to connect with the active toddler, and his dad said he’s been adapting to his son’s unique obstacles and ambitions ever since. “CJ can be hard to keep up with,” said David Cosby, who works in the logging industry as a security and fire watcher in the field for Dancer Logging. Inc. “Even more so when trying to keep up with his mind, because he has so many hopes and ambitions of things he wants to do with his life.” The junior Cosby said his ultimate goal is to cross the Pacific Crest Trail, a behemoth 2,650-mile jaunt that begins at the small town of Campo at the Mexican border and reaches north to Manning Park in British Columbia. Cosby hopes to master this and other trails while pursuing a degree in documentary filming between excursions. This could also mean a lot of travel time for Cosby’s dad, who walks with him during day trips on local trails but opts to travel from a distance in his 32-foot travel trailer during the longer hauls. It’s obvious the duo is close. Cosby finished the Oregon Coast Trail on September 19, but decided to spend the night at Crissey State Park so that he and his dad could walk
the last mile together, ceremoniously touching the state park sign with the palm of their hands. While Cosby noted he has the support of his dad, he is also inspired by another: Nick Talbot, a County Durham, England-based climber who also has cystic fibrosis. Talbot was the first man with cystic fibrosis to summit weatherfickle Mt. Everest - on his third attempt. On his second attempt, he suffered cracked ribs and hypothermia after an 8.7 magnitude earthquake caused an avalanche that killed many climbers, including his friend and Google Executive Dan Fredinburg. Climbers close knit The climbing community, though vast, is nonetheless close knit. Talbot responded to a request for comment from the Curry Coastal Pilot about Cosby’s achievement. “First of all, a big congratulations to Colton,” Talbot said. “402 miles is impressive for anyone to do, let alone someone with CF (cystic fibrosis). He must have overcome so much to achieve this. I’m happy that my Everest challenge has encouraged Colton to
continue treatments. Sometimes, you have to develop special techniques to deal with CF to achieve your goal.” What’s next?
Courtesy photo
Colton Cosby overcame more than just tough weather and rough terrain when he completed the 402-mile Oregon Coast Trail last week.
push impressive new boundaries, and I hope all CFers get to live their best life and push their own personal boundaries whatever they may be.” “That has made my day,” responded Cosby, who was eating his first post-hike, homecooked breakfast when notified of Talbot’s words. Talbot echoed Cosby’s drive to keep pushing forward. “I was inspired to climb by the desire to push boundaries and raise profile and money for CF charities around the world,” he said. “It’s really tough having challenging goals with CF because it is so much harder to become as fit as other people, deal with lower lung capacity and potential infections and
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Are you interested in earning $2400-$3600 / month while opening your heart and home to a child in need? If you are compassionate, caring, patient, and have good judgment and understanding, this may be a great opportunity to supplement your income while making a difference to a child in your community.
Community Services Inc. (CSI) is looking for Host Home providers to offer a stable, safe and loving home to a child with intellectual and/or developmental disabilities. Host homes are similar to foster homes but we offer: • Initial and ongoing training and coaching, • Relief support, • 24hr on-call phone support and guidance, and • Supplemental in-home support from CSI direct support professionals.
GENERAL REQUIREMENTS TO BECOME A HOST HOME PROVIDER:
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Be at least 21 years old.
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Have a home (own or lease) in the Portland, Oregon Metro area.
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Have a reliable vehicle, proof of insurance and an Oregon drivers license.
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Must be able to pass a criminal background check
If you think this is right for you and/or want more information, please contact
Andrea Kaluna at akaluna@cs-inc.org or apply on our website:
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If you know of someone, an agency or business, or a group, that is making a positive difference in our community and would like to see them featured in Who We Are, email details to jruark@countrymedia.net.
•C ommunity E vents • •
Sept. 25 Class Reunion • Clatskanie High School Class of 1981 will celebrate its 40 year reunion from 5 to 8 p.m. at the Clatskanie City Park. Fore more information, visit the Facebook page Clatskanie High School Class of 1981 or text Deni (Stram) Youngblood at 503-3083680. Oct. 2 Performing Arts Series • Concert rock violinist Aaron Meyer to perform at 7:30 p.m. at the Birkenfeld Theatre in the Clatskanie Cultural Center, 75 S. Nehalem Street in Clatskanie as part of the Clatskanie Arts Commission (CAC). Ticket at adults $20, seniors 60+ and students $18, children 12 and under $16. Tickets may be purchased online at clatskaniearts. org or at the door the night of the concert. Tickets may also be reserved by calling Elsa, at 503-728-3403. CAC will follow state mandates and require all attending to wear masks. Check
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As for his next excursion? Cosby conceded he will need to give up his penchant for junk food, opting instead for a highprotein and nutrient rich diet. “This time I was able to complete the trip with a basic outline that was loosely planned,” he said. “But the next time I will need to eat healthier in order to meet the 10-20 miles of walking a day.” The senior Cosby, perhaps still recuperating from the month prior, was more inclined to reflect on the day’s one-mile walk to the finish line. “It was a very emotional time. He’s got a disease,” David Cosby said. “He’s gonna die with it sooner or later, we just don’t know when. Until then, he wants to get as much out of life as possible.”
the CAC website, clatskaniearts. org for any updates concerning COVID restrictions. Oct. 4-17 Get There Challenge • The event is designed to build skills, stay active, and make Oregon a better place. The ninth annual Get There Challenge participants can take actions to unlock a variety of experience, knowledge, and skill-building achievements. Anyone age 18 or older who lives and/or works in Oregon can join the Get There Challenge at any time by visiting GetThereOregon.org. Oct. 9 Fall Native Plant Sale • The Scappoose Bay Watershed Council presents the annual sale from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. behind Scappoose High School, 33700 SE High School Way in Scappoose. Proceeds help local restoration projects. For more information, visit www. scappoosebay-wc.org.
•C rossword S olutions • •
Solution for the Sept. 17, 2021 crossword puzzle
This is a wonderful opportunity to improve your financial situation, positively impact a child's life and use your heart, home, and skills to make a difference.
Columbia County’s trusted local news source
www.thechiefnews.com
A8
Friday, September 24, 2021
THANK YOU
Turning Point and HOPE of Rainier would like to thank everyone that helped us make our first joint fundraiser a success beyond any expectation we could have thought possible. To all the sponsors, donors, businesses, volunteers, employees, board members, and community members – we THANK YOU! This was a great way for the two food pantries to come together and create the best experience for all and raise the money needed so that we can continue serving our communities. We could not have done it without each and every one of you. We would like to thank the following specifically: • Mayor Jerry Cole and the City of Rainier for allowing us the use of the Rainier City Park for our event • Cornerstone for catering the delicious meal • Eagles for providing the bar • Phoenix for the great music Thank you again for coming and supporting us so that we can continue to support those in need. Kelly Miller Director – Turning Point and HOPE of Rainier
Thank you to our sponsors and volunteers Platinum Sponsors Global Partners Fibre Federal Credit Union Kynsi Construction Rightline Equipment Samuel S. Johnson Foundation Teevin Brothers
Gold Sponsors Clatskanie PUD (2) Clatskanie River Inn Flowers ‘N Fluff Guardian Management
InRoads Credit Union Jim & Jane Sawyer Luigi’s Pizza Mike Arthur NEXT Energy Group Ol’Pastime Tavern Rainier Chamber of Commerce Rainier Masonic Lodge #24 Rivers Edge RV Park Wauna Credit Union
Volunteers Jared Kuiper-Auctioneer Marc and Julie Farmer
Brian and Meagan Fawcett Susan Sherman Amy Trull Sarah Johnson Arin Guillroy Brandy McGladrey BreAnna Grissom Brenda Kee Claudia Alvarez Edwin Snider Emily Soule FashiaSkjelstad Gary Patrick Gary Rice Graham Steele Joan Blennerhassett
Josh Finke Kerry Noel LeAnn Cole Lisa Soule Mark Overbay Michelle Patrick Natasha Allen Patti Younts Rosemary Scandale Roy Sprunger Sherrie Frost Shirley Pryor Tess Poat Theresa Bentley Toni Davidson Tonya Higgins
Turning Point Community Service Center To assist members of our community with a helping hand
HOPE Chest Thrift Store: located at 107 E. 1st St.
Hours: Mon Wed Fri from 10 - 4 • www.hopeofrainier.com
Monetary donations welcomed: P.O. Box 448 Rainier, OR Food Bank hours: Mon & Wed from 12 - 4
Columbia County’s trusted local news source
Food boxes: Mon Tue & Thur from 11 a.m. - 2:30 p.m. Thrift Store: Mon Tue & Thur from 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. 220 E. Columbia River Hwy • PO Box 773, Clatskanie, OR 97016 turning3point@gmail.com • www.clatskanieturningpoint.org Phone: 503-728-3126 • Fax: 503-728-5182