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Honoring veterans

Election 2022

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FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 4, 2022

VOL. 131, NO. 26 Serving the Lower Columbia Region since 1891

Clatskanie Community Choir returns, first concert Nov. 18

Courtesy photo from Jamie Erwin

The Clatskanie Community Choir.

and holds a degree in music education from Humboldt State University. Erwin was integral in bringing the Clatskanie Community Choir back together. “The choir had not been together for approximately 15 years,” Erwin said. “I thought it was time to regroup, so I put a call out on Facebook. Forty people responded, ranging in age from 19 to 70.” Accompanying the choir is pianist Gwen Larson. “It is great to have Gwen, and we have been practicing with the choir since August,” Erwin said. According to local resident Elsa Wooley, the

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There is good news for lovers of song: The Clatskanie Community Choir is once again active and will be performing its first concert November 18. The concert will be held at the Birkenfeld Theatre in the Clatskanie Cultural Center, located at 75 S. Nehalem St. The concert will start at 7 p.m. and admission is free with donations accepted. The choir director, Jaime Erwin, who is also the music and drama teacher at Clatskanie Middle High School, has been around music her entire life. She is an accomplished multi-instrumentalist

history of the Community Choir is a long one. “It started out as the Choralaires in the 1960s under the direction of Rusty Carver,” Wooley said, and was revised in later years by Clatskanie Middle High School teacher Bob Emminger.” The songs the choir will present are eclectic – everything from sacred to pop, according to Erwin. The songs are “Seasons of Love,” “Simple Gifts,” “Kyrie,” and “Tuimbe.” Another song, “No Time,” will be sung with the students. Choir member Scott Falconer said he initially joined because men were needed in the new choir formation.

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“I have always sung at church, even during COVID (virtually). It is really fun and helps me to develop my voice,” he said. The high schoolers who will sing at the performance said they also love what being part of the choir has done for them. “Mrs. Erwin is great and encourages us to work independently,” student Even Bergman said. “That really helps to develop confidence. And of course, it is always great to meet new friends.” “She is one of the best teachers I have ever had,” student Sommer Burnard said. “Choir is one of my favorite things to do. I have always been involved in per-

forming arts and singing is a great way to connect with people. It gives me a chance to express myself.” Choir member Lori Sherman said she feels honored to be a member of the choir. “I feel privileged to be a part of such an amazing group of people with such talented instructors,” Sherman said. “Jaime Erwin and Gwen Larson are a joy to work with and I love their style of teaching… they really make it fun. The Clatskanie Community Choir has brought me new friendships and has brought me back together with old friends. It has given me an avenue to do what I love and that is to sing. I hope to see

my family and friends on November 18 to come listen to the choir.” The choir recorded a version of the concert which will be shown on YouTube and is dedicated to our local veterans. The veteran’s photos will be shown as the choir sings. “It will be in a YouTube link that has not been set up yet,” Erwin said. “It will soon be shared on Facebook and through the school’s blackboard account. One can also search CMHS Veterans Day 2022 on YouTube.” For more information, contact Jamie Erwin at 503728-2146.

•W inter O utlook • •

Bundle up and take your umbrella The changes will impact timber harvesting on more than 10 million acres of private and non-federal forests.

State approves timber harvest changes

responds to the climate change crisis, while also providing some stability for the communities and economies that rely on the forest products indus-

STAFF REPORT Country Media, Inc.

The Oregon Board of Forestry has approved more than 100 changes to the Forest Practices Act. The rule changes are a result of the mediated and groundbreaking Private Forest Accord (PFA) that brought together representatives from conservation groups and the timber industry. The changes will impact timber harvest activities on more than 10 million acres of private and non-federal forests in the state. “The rules we adopted are just one of a great many changes coming from the Private Forest Accord that will advance how Oregon protects its natural resources and

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defining model for weather forecasters. This would be the third consecutive year for our weather to be influenced by El Niño. Weather experts said that influence is directly related to climate change. The NWS outlook suggests that the La Niña impact will likely continue through mid-winter. NWS Climate Prediction Center (CPC) outlooks:

JEREMY C. RUARK jruark@countrymedia.net

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Courtesy from the NWS

The National Weather Service has issued this map illustrating the winter weather outlook for Oregon and the nation.

The National Weather Service’s (NWS) latest winter outlook shows a 75% chance of La Niña December through February for Columbia County and the rest of the state. El Niño and the Southern Oscillation, commonly referred to as ENSO, is a periodic fluctuation in sea surface temperature (SST) and the overlying atmosphere across the equatorial Pacific Ocean. It is a

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Election 2022 ........... A2 Obituaries ................. A3 Clatskanie Grows ... A4 Community Events . A4 Classified Ads ......... A5 Legals ....................... A5

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LUBA rules against NEXT rail yard plan STAFF REPORT Country Media, Inc.

The Oregon Land Use Board of Appeals (LUBA) has overturned Columbia County’s approval for the Houston-based NEXT Renewables LLC proposed 400car rail yard for the diesel refinery at Port Westward. LUBA reversed the county’s decision because the rail yard is not allowed on farm land, according to a release by Columbia Riverkeeper, 1000 Friends of Oregon, and farmers at Port Westward. Local farmers, conservation groups, and neighbors oppose the refinery and rail yard. “LUBA’s decision exposes a major flaw in NEXT’s proposed refinery— the unmistakable impact of a large rail yard on neighbors and water resources,” Columbia Riverkeeper Conservation Director Dan Serres said. “Without this approval, NEXT cannot build the refinery and rail yard, and major state and federal permits remain undecided as

well. This is a major setback for the proposed refinery and rail yard, which pose a major threat to the health of the community and clean water in the Lower Columbia River.” “The decision is a recognition of the importance of Oregon’s land use laws—to protect our irreplaceable farm lands, especially in the face of a changing climate,” 1000 Friends of Oregon Deputy Director Mary Kyle McCurdy said. “LUBA got this right. Our farm—which has been here for generations—our business, and our community would be negatively impacted by the rail yard and the refinery,” Port Westward mint farmer Mike Seely said. “NEXT came to town promising the moon, including very little use of rail for training in feedstock, like seed oil, from the middle of the continent. Our community saw right through NEXT’s bait-and-switch—adding a 400-car rail yard to the project. We are glad that LUBA saw through it, too.”

Local farmers, clean water advocates, and uprail communities concerned about long trains bisecting Columbia County cities and towns remain adamant that the Port Westward area is better suited to agriculture, forestry, and fisheries than a major new refinery that would produce diesel from fracked gas and unknown feedstocks, according to the release. The proposed refinery and rail yard would be located among farms, residences, and close to a Buddhist monastery. State and federal agencies have yet to make final decisions on the project, and the Army Corps of Engineers is expected to release a draft environmental impact statement in early 2023. Read the LUBA decision, issued Oct. 27, at https:// www.oregon.gov/luba/Docs/ Opinions/2022/10-22/22039. pdf.

Oregon conducts a Vote By Mail General Election Tuesday, November 8. The following has been prepared to help voters with details about that election process. • General Election Day is Tuesday, November 8, 2022 • Last day for new Oregon voters to register to vote for the November 8 General Election was Tuesday, October 18. • Oregon is Vote-ByMail. • You do not need to request an absentee ballot unless you will not be at your home address between October 10 and November 8. • Ballots were mailed to all local active registered voters beginning October 19. If you have not received a ballot by October 28, call the County Clerk’s Office. • Voted ballots are due in the County Clerk’s Office or in an official ballot drop box by 8 p.m. Election Day, November 8. • Be sure to sign your golden envelope in order for your ballot to be counted.

We verify that every signature is valid before counting your ballot. • Vote early. You do not have to wait until Election Day to vote. • If you are concerned with mailing your ballot back through the postage paid envelope with the Postal Service or if you wait until the last week before the Election to vote, use an official ballot drop box: • Voter pamphlets from the Secretary of State were mailed on October 19. If you have questions or concerns, call the County Clerk’s Office at 503-3973796 for an official answer. Do not believe everything you see or hear. Ask the local office in charge. You can also refer to the county and state election websitesfor information or election results at the following: Columbia County Elections • columbiacountyor.gov/ departments/Elections

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

Four C Notes to perform The Clatskanie Arts Commission presents the Four C Notes premier tribute to Frankie Valli and The Four Seasons at 7:30 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 13. This concert will be held at Birkenfeld Theatre 75 S. Nehalem Street in Clatskanie. Created by John Michael Coppola, best known for his appearance in Chicago’s long-running production of the Broadway smash hit Jersey Boys, The Four C Notes are the Midwest’s only tribute dedicated to recreating the music of Frankie Valli and The Four Seasons. The tribute features all of your favorite hits, including: • “Sherry” • “Big Girls Don’t Cry” • “Walk Like A Man” • “Workin’ My Way Back To You, (Babe)” • “Can’t Take My Eyes Off Of You” • “Let’s Hang On” and many, many, more with a few surprises thrown in. Four guys, vintage dance

Courtesy photo

The Four C Notes.

moves, and Mr. Coppola’s legacy with the Frankie Valli and Four Seasons catalog give The Four C Notes an authenticity to their performance that similar tribute groups simply cannot match anywhere. Tickets may be ordered online at clatskaniearts. org, or by reserving them by calling Elsa at 503-7283403. Cost • Adults - $25 • Seniors 60+ and Students - $23 • Children 12 and under $20

The series You are invited to join ther performances as part of CAC’s 33rd Performing Arts Series: • Sunday, Dec. 4, 3 p.m. Never Come Down • Saturday, Feb. 18, 7:30 p.m. The Wardens • Sunday, March 12, 3 p.m. Pianist John Nilsen • Sunday, April 23, 3 p.m. Oregon Symphonic Band To learn more about these groups and to order tickets, visit clatskaniearts. org.

Spring forward, fall back this weekend

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Daylight Saving Time ends at 2 a.m. this Sunday, Nov. 6. That’s when we “fall back” one hour. Daylight Saving Time (DST) is the practice of mov-

ing the clocks forward one hour from Standard Time during the summer months and changing them back again in the fall,” according to the Farmers Almanac. “The general idea is that this allows us all to make better use of natural daylight: moving the clocks forward one hour in the spring grants

us more daylight during summer evenings, while moving clocks back one hour in the fall grants us more daylight during winter mornings, “the Farmers Almanac website states. Daylight Saving Time always begins on the second Sunday in March and ends on the first Sunday in November. To remember which way to set their clocks, folks often use the expression, “spring forward, fall back,” according to the Farmers Almanac.

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Oregon Secretary of State’s webpage State of Oregon • sos.oregon.gov/votingelections/Pages/default.aspx Columbia County ballot drop site locations These are the drop sites used in a countywide election. For smaller, local elections, drop site locations will vary. Columbia County Courthouse 230 Strand St., St. Helens Scappoose City Hall 33568 E. Columbia Ave. Clatskanie Library 11 Lillich St., Clatskanie Rainier City Hall 106 B St. West, Rainier Vernonia Public Library 701 Weed Ave, Vernonia Mist-Birkenfeld RFPD (inside office) 12525 Oregon Highway 202, Mist

Friday, November 4, 2022

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Enrollment opens for health care coverage STAFF REPORT Country Media, Inc.

The annual open enrollment period for health coverage in Oregon is now open. Open enrollment is the only time when anyone who is not offered coverage from a job or a public program like the Oregon Health Plan or Medicare can enroll in health coverage through the Oregon Health Insurance Marketplace, often with financial help, according to a release from the Oregon Health Authority (OHA). What to know for this open enrollment • Eligibility rules have changed this year, making health coverage more affordable for thousands

of Oregonians. Previously, people offered health coverage through a spouse or parent’s employer could not access financial help if the least expensive plan offered to only the employee was considered affordable. New rules allow people who previously were ineligible for financial help through the Marketplace if that coverage is considered unaffordable to the enrollee. • Nearly 80 percent of Oregonians who applied for financial help qualified in 2022. The average amount of financial help received was $483 per month. • Oregonians have choices when it comes to choosing their health plan. All Oregonians have at least four insurance companies and 26 plans to choose from.

OregonHealthCare.gov offers a quick and easy-touse window-shopping tool where users can preview what plans and savings are available to them. The tool also allows users to see which plans cover their prescription drugs and are networked with their preferred doctors or hospitals. A new tool available at OregonHealthCare.gov can help you figure out if job-based coverage is considered affordable. Bottom line Metro Creative Connection

• Free local help is available throughout the state. Licensed insurance agents and trained community groups can be found at OregonHealthCare.gov/GetHelp.

Sorting through health coverage options can be confusing, but Oregonians should know that there are tools, according to the release.

Oregonians who do not currently have health coverage available are being urged to start at OregonHealthCare.gov. There they can see if health coverage offered from a job is con-

sidered affordable, preview plans and savings, and find an expert to guide them through the process. What is the Oregon Health Marketplace? The Oregon Health Insurance Marketplace is described as a location of state government that assists people to get health insurance when they do not have job-based coverage and do not qualify for the Oregon Health Plan or another program. The Marketplace is the state-level partner to HealthCare.gov. The open enrollment period opened Nov. 1. For more information, go to OregonHealthCare. gov.

$69M for 430,000 Oregon SNAP households STAFF REPORT Country Media, Inc.

Most Columbia County residents and those across the state who receive Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits will receive emergency allotments in November. In November, approximately 430,000 SNAP households will receive approximately $69 million in extra food benefits in addition to their regular SNAP benefits. The federal government has approved emergency

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allotments every month since March 2020. This gives SNAP recipients additional support during the COVID-19 pandemic. These emergency benefits are a temporary support that Oregon can provide because of the federal COVID-19 public health emergency. Because the federal government approved these emergency benefits for November, Oregon will also be able to issue them in December. However, the emergency benefits are expected to end when the federal public health emergency ends.

•C rossword S olutions • •

Solution for the Oct. 28, 2022 crossword puzzle

“We know that many rely on these additional emergency food benefits to get enough healthy food for themselves and their families,” Oregon Department of Human Services (ODHS), Self-Sufficiency Programs Interim Director Jana McLellan said. “We also know that many Oregonians are still struggling to meet their basic needs and we encourage them to contact our partners at 211, the Oregon Food Bank and their local Community Action Agency for support during this difficult time.” Current SNAP households will receive emergency allotments on Nov. 11. Emergency allotments will be issued Nov. 30 or Dec. 2 for households who did not receive benefits in the first monthly issuance. SNAP recipients do not have to take any action to receive these supplemental benefits as they will be issued directly on their EBT cards.

More information about emergency allotments is available at https://www. oregon.gov/dhs/ASSISTANCE/FOOD-BENEFITS/ Pages/Emergency-Allotments.aspx. Questions about your SNAP benefits should be directed to the ONE Customer Service Center at 1-800699-9075. If your household receives SNAP and your income or the number of people in your household has changed, it could impact your benefits. It is important to make sure ODHS has the most up-todate information. How to report any changes to your income or household: • Online at: ONE.Oregon.gov • By mail at: ONE Customer Service Center, PO Box 14015, Salem, OR 97309 • By fax at: 503-3785628

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SNAP is a federal program that provides food assistance to approximately 1 million eligible low-income families and individuals in Oregon, including many older adults and people with disabilities.

• By phone at: 1-800-6999075 or TTY 711 Resources to help meet basic needs • Find a food pantry: foodfinder.oregonfoodbank. org • Learn about government programs and community resources for older adults and people with disabilities: Aging and Disability Resource

Connection of Oregon at 1-855-673-2372 or www. adrcoforegon.org • Dial 2-1-1, or text your zip code to 898-211, www.211info.org • Find local resources and support by contacting your local Community Action Agency: www.caporegon. org/find-services/ • Oregon Department of Human Services COVID-19 help center

•O bituaries • • Guy Brown

March 30, 1939 ~ Oct. 26, 2022 Guy Brown was born in Nevada City, California, on March 30, 1939, to Laura (Holt) and Ralph Brown. He passed away Oct. 26, 2022, at the age of 83. After an argument with the landlord resulting in the shooting death of his father Ralph at the age of 4, while living in Vancouver, Washington, he moved to Rainier, Oregon, with his mother, baby brother Billy (who passed away suddenly at the age of 3) and older sister Shirley. At the age of seven, he started delivering the newspaper to help support his mother and sister. In the eigth grade he quit delivering newspapers to play school sports. (During the newspaper delivery he opted to put half of his earnings in a savings account that saved enough to pay off their family home). He attended Rainier Schools, where he was an outstanding athlete in basketball and

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baseball. He joined the Air Force from 1957 to 1960. He talked often about the love of flying and traveling, On Oct. 27, 1966, he married Audrey Howard. They were married for 46 years until her passing in 2012. He lived in the same home for 56 years. He worked at Fibre for 40 years, retiring in 2000. In 1997, his half-sister Sybil Stime came to visit Oregon from Minnesota to meet him and Shirley for the first time. Sybil was 78 years old. That was the start of a beautiful relationship between them that continued until her passing in November 2020. Sadly, eight months later, his sister Shirley Murphy passed

away in July 2021. In March 2021, he was diagnosed with cancer, where he completed several rounds of chemo. Many weeks of radiation treatment without one complaint of the effects. In September of 2022, he stopped his treatment, saying it is what it is. Got to make the best of it. He did as he wished and lived the rest of his life his way on his terms. He enjoyed many hobbies. Hunting, fishing, and his favorite was playing golf with his friends. He had several holes in one. Shortly after the passing of Audrey, his vision became very impaired due to a hereditary eye disease which forced him to quit driving and playing golf. He was very active, often exercising on his machine at home or walking his dog, Dixie, who he spoiled and loved. Dixie was overweight and reached a point that she was no longer able to jump up onto the couch to her spot next to him, so he developed a routine of bending over and picking her up, placing her on her spot on the couch, making sure she was covered with her blanket before he sat next to her. Dixie was his sidekick for over 17 years until she passed in 2018.

His golfing buddies, once a week, faithfully would drive to Rainier to pick him up for a cold beer at the Pastime. He enjoyed the Seattle Mariner and Oregon Duck games. His favorite was keeping track of pro golfing. His sense of humor was the best. He was kind and generous. He was an exemplary example of a Dad. He loved his grandchildren and greatgrandchildren. (Also known as Grandpa Putt Putt or Grandpa Grape). He was a great friend, brother, brother-in-law and uncle. He is survived by his children, Trina, Jeffrey, Terri, and Johnathan; 10 grandchildren, Randall, Lisa, Ty, Owen, Elizabeth, Jeanette, Scott, Zamanda, Robert and Jessica; 14 great-grandchildren; and several nieces and nephews. He is preceded by his wife; parents; brother; sisters; and niece Vicky Conrath. Celebration of life will be in March 2023. Memorial Contributions may be made to Community Home Health and Hospice. He will be deeply missed and loved forever. Grief is the last act of love we have to give to those we love. Where there is deep grief, there is GREAT love.

Donna Sue Hendershot Nov. 13, 1936 ~ Oct. 30, 2022

Sunday, Nov. 13, 2022, 7:30 p.m. Tickets: Adult $25, Senior/Student $23, Child $20 Birkenfeld Theater Clatskanie Cultural Center 75 S. Nehalem St Clatskanie, OR

Donna Sue Hendershot, 85, of Rainier, Oregon, went to be with her Lord on Oct. 30, 2022 in Longview, Washington. Donna was born in Muncie, Indiana, to Guy and Gladys Hyde. While working at a department store and going to college, she met Clinton Hendershot, who was in the Navy. Later the two married and had three children, Jerry, Debra, and David. After Clinton was out of the Navy, they settled down in Rainier, Oregon, where they purchased a small farm and raised horses. Donna enjoyed watching

her children and grandchildren grow up and participate in horse events and even helped as an announcer.

She loved to have friends and family over for a home cooked meal and is going to be greatly missed. Donna is survived by her sister Dorathy; sons, Jerry and David; grandchildren, Brittanie, Logan, Jordan, Amber, Rylee, and Chance; as well as many great grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her husband Clinton; daughter Debra; sister Helen; and both her parents. A graveside memorial service will be held for her at 1 p.m. on Nov. 8, 2022 at Hudson Cemetery in Rainier, Oregon.

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•C latskanie G rows • •

Tree frogs appear suddenly following rainstorm CHIP BUBL Clatskanie Grows Chief Guest Column

five months. The frogs are Pacific tree frogs and can be brown, green, or mixed brown and green colored. They can even change color from brown to green and back. I did have one report of an earlier outbreak in Warren during the last week of August. These frogs are very beneficial and part of our natural landscape. Box elder and stink bugs return

Courtesy illustration from Pacific Horticulture.org

Lots of little tree frogs appear suddenly. A number of residents had an abundance of 1-inch frogs show up a little more than two weeks ago, right after the first real rain since midJune. They were attracted to house lighting that brought insects that became frog meals. Frogs were all over the extension office early in the morning of Oct. 22, when we had a Master Gardener training. They largely disappeared during the day but have reappeared in lesser numbers since then. I am still trying to find out exactly what caused all this frog activity. It is possible that the long cool, wet spring may have extended breeding. Then, with the rough conditions of no rain and very warm temperatures once we hit late June, perhaps the tadpoles delayed metamorphosis into frogs, which they can put off for

For several years, we haven’t had large populations of either of these two bugs looking for warmth in the winter. They are both back and, if we get any sunny days you may still see them basking on your exterior walls. They like to wiggle into your house where it is warmer, using small gaps in window edges and door frames to get into your house and attic. This is a very poor life choice since most don’t find their way back out once spring comes. Wall voids often have huge volumes of dead insects that thought this was a good idea.

Careful caulking will slow if not completely stop them. Stink bug numbers had gone way down, both on farms where they

• November 8 Annual Veterans Breakfast 8 a.m. to 10 a.m. at Scappoose High School (SHS), 33700 SE High School Way in Scappoose. Food and live music by the SHS Band and Choir to be featured. RSVP requested to khagen@scappoose.k12.or.us or call SHS at 971-200-8005. November 12-13 The Caples House Museum hosts its annual Holiday Bazaar from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at 1925 1st Street on grounds overlooking the Columbia River in Columbia City. For more information, call 503397-5390, or email CaplesHouse@comcast.net November 12 Arts & Crafts Faire The 48th Annual Arts & Crafts Faire will be held from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Christ Episcopal Church, 35350 E. Division

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damage crops like apples, pears, tomatoes, peppers, and grapes, and around homes. The best explanation is that the numbers of a tiny predator wasp grew to the point that they set the invasive stink bug population back. Box elder bug (a native insect) numbers go up and down with no real pattern from one year to the next. They feed in maple trees during the summer and do no harm to the trees. Other insects or insect-like things that may wander in from the outside include millipedes and centipedes, seed bugs, multi-colored lady beetles, and carpet beetles.

right time to remove any dead limbs since they are harder to see when all the leaves are gone. Those limbs serve no purpose and can cause damage in a windstorm. If you plan to remove some limbs back to the trunk or another branch, you can do that now as well. Roses are generally “high-pruned” to about knee high and, if you like, pruned harder next spring. Old canes of raspberries and the blackberry types should be removed now, and the new canes tied to the trellis. Local events

volunteer workday from 9 a.m. to noon and/or from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 5. Come help pull ivy and add native plants along the Fifth Street Right of Way trail and at Nob Hill. Nob Hill Nature Park is an oak woodland overlooking the Columbia River. Dress for the weather, including rain gear if needed, which is likely. This work party takes place rain or shine. Please bring gloves, tools, water and snack items if possible; we’ll provide some water and snacks too. Meet at the kiosk across from city’s water treatment plant at 451 Plymouth St., in St. Helens. All are welcome. Pre-registration is requested by Friday, November 4, by calling Scappoose Bay Watershed Council at 503-397-7904. Or e-mail to: info@scappoosebay-wc. org (http://scappoosebaywc.org). For day of event, call 503-349-8586. They look forward to seeing you. Food preservation You can get up-to–date and accurate answers to your food preservation questions by calling our office at 503-397-3462 and ask to speak to Jenny Rudolph.

Fall pruning

Nob Hill Nature Work Party

Important notes

Most pruning is done in the winter when the trees and shrubs are completely dormant. But this is the

Scappoose Bay Watershed Council and Friends of Nob Hill Nature Park invite you to join our semi-annual

• The OSU Extension Office is fully open from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. • Donate extra garden produce and/or money to

the food bank, senior centers, or community meals programs. It is greatly appreciated. • The Extension Service offers its programs and materials equally to all people. 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 503-3973462 or at chip.bubl@oregonstate.edu. The office is open from 8 a.m. to 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 http://extension. oregonstate.edu/columbia/ and click on newsletters. Contract resources Oregon State University Extension Service – Columbia County 505 N. Columbia River Highway St. Helens, OR 97051 503-397-3462

•C ommunity E vents • •

Rd., off Hwy 30, in St. Helens. This faire features unique handcrafted items and a bake table with cookies, pies, breads and more.

December 3 Sunset Park Community Church Annual Bazaar Bazaar will be held from 9 a.m. – 3 p.m. at 174 Sunset Blvd. in St. Helens.

November 12 Autumn Bazaar hosted by Mizpah OES The Autumn Bazaar will be held from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Columbia County Shrine Center, 315 N. 18th St. in St. Helens.

December 3 and 4 Columbia City Elementary PTO Holiday Bazaar The Holiday Bazaar will be held from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Columbia City Elementary School, 2000 Second St. in Columbia City. Stop by for holiday décor and gifts.

November 12 and 13 Caples House Museum Holiday Bazaar The Caples House Museum Holiday Bazaar will be held from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at 1925 First St. in Columbia City. November 19 St. Helens Senior Center Christmas Bazaar The St. Helens Christmas Bazaar will be held from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. at 375 S. 15th St., in St. Helens.

December 5 Holiday Concert 6 p.m. Michael Allen Harrison Holiday Concert at Columbia City Community Hall, 1850 Second St. in Columbia City. Doors open at 5:30 p.m. Proceeds from this event will go to Michael’s Snowman Foundation. Tickets are $20 and will be sold at Columbia City Hall, 1840 Second St. Food and beverages will be sold at this event.

December 10 St. Helens Band Patrons Lions Holiday Bazaar The bazaar will be held from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the St. Helens High School Commons. December 17 Spirit of Christmas in Scappoose The Christmas market will be open from 9:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. in the Scappoose annex gym. Santa and the Grinch will be there throughout the day. December 17 and 18 Holiday Bazaar for Columbia River Fire and Rescue Scholarship Fund The Holiday Bazaar, put on by the Columbia River Fire & Rescue Volunteer Association, will be held from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Columbia County Fairgrounds Pavilion, 58892 Saulser Rd. in St. Helens. Door prizes on Saturday and a visit from the Grinch from noon to 2 p.m. on Sunday.

Ongoing events Caples Evening Programs The cost for this evening and all our Fireside Chats will be only $5. Caples will be offering a different program the third Tuesday of each month at 7 p.m. at 1925 First Street in Columbia City. For more information, call 503-397-5390. Lower Columbia River Watershed Council Meets at 7 p.m. every other second Tuesday. Meetings are currently held electronically by Zoom. For more information, contact Council Coordinator Allan Whiting at E-mail: allan@ whitingenv.com, or call 503789-9240. Visit the council’s website for agenda postings and Zoom at www.lowercolumbiariver.org/events-page. The Rainier Oregon Historical Museum (ROHM) is open from noon to 4 p.m. Saturday

(except major holidays weekends). ROHM is located inside Rainier City Hall at 106 W B Street. For more information, call 360-751-7039. The Rainier Public Library is open from 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays, 10:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. on Fridays and 10:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. on Saturdays. It will be closed Sundays and Mondays. Avamere at St. Helens hosts a Virtual Dementia Support Group – 3rd Wednesday of each month from 2 to 3 p.m. For more details, contact Jenny Hicks/Avamere at St. Helens at 503-366-8070. To list an event in the Community Calendar, email details with a phone number that may be published, to chronicleclassifieds@countrymedia.net, or call 503-397-0116.

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: chiefnews@countrymedia.net ADVERTISE WITH US: Advertising Email: chronicleads@countrymedia.net Classified email: chronicleclassifieds@countrymedia.net Joe Warren Publisher

Jeremy C. Ruark Regional Executive Editor

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ing details presented as facts rather than opinions must include their sources. Writers are limited to one published letter per month. All submissions must include the author’s full name, local street address and telephone number (only the name and city of residence will be published). By submitting a letter, writers also grant permission for them to be posted online. Opinions expressed on this page are the writer’s alone and do not represent the opinion of the newspaper or its parent com-

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pany, Country Media, Inc. Obituaries Obituaries received after noon on Wednesday may not be in time for that Friday’s paper. Obituaries may be emailed to chiefnews@countrymedia.net, sent via mail, or dropped off at the office. We also accept obituaries written by funeral homes. Include the address and daytime phone number of the person who submitted the obituary, so we can verify information as necessary.

Marketplace

Friday, November 4, 2022

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Misc Services

ATTENTION LAND OWNERS We buy CEDAR and NOBLE boughs. What we pay depends on the quality of your trees. We do all the work and won’t damage your trees. For more information contact Jorge Martinez (360) 751-7723

Need a job? check the classifieds online at www.thechiefnews.com to find your perfect job offer

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Garage Sales

CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER Columbia 9-1-1 Communications District (C911CD) is conducting a hiring process or a Chief Financial Officer. Apply online at www.col u m b i a 9 11 . c o m / careers. Additional information can be found on our website or by calling 503-366-6978.

Corrections Lieutenant Columbia County, OR EOE Deadline: 12/5/2022 Apply at ColumbiaCounty OR.gov.

11/24/2022. Apply at ColumbiaCounty OR.gov.

Lunch counter. 75942 Larson Rd, Rainier.

702

rage sale and vintage sale at the Clark County Fairgrounds and event center. 17402 NE Delfel Road, Richfield Washington, off I-5, exit 9, 15 minutes north of Portland. General admission: 8 a.m. 5 p.m., adults: $7, early bird admission: 7 a.m., $20. Kids under 12: free. w w w. n w g s a l e s . com or call 360907-5919.

600 Indoor Garage and vintage sales on Nov. 5th. Northwest largest ga-

FALL SALE Beaver Valley Grange Nov 10 & 11; 10 AM-4 PM Rummage, Bazaar, Baked Goods,

Community Health Nurse Columbia County, OR EOE Deadline: Open Until Filled. Apply at Columbia CountyOR.gov.

PORT OF COLUMBIA COUNTY The Port is hiring for the following positions: Finance Manager, Property Manager. To learn more and apply, please visit our website www.portof columbiacounty .org/job. EOE Support Services Clerk Columbia County, OR EOE Deadline

624

Auto Parts

For sale Leer Canopy fits 2018 Chevrolet with a 6 ft, 6 in. box. White in color, front slider, flip up side windows with locks. $800 OBO. Text or voicemail to 360-431-4260. Garage Sales

706

860

Storage

CLATSKANIE Mini Storage

Estate Sales

ONE DAY ONLY! Shop Sale on Sat. 11/5 from 9 am - 4pm. 3 12’x10’ commercial shelving units, quality tools, vintage dolls, Ashley spinning wheels, lots of collectables, motorcycle items, outdoor items, still unpacking. 67651 McCoy Rd. in Rainier. 4 miles off Hwy 30 and Nicoli. Signs out.

Got Cedar and Noble trees? If so, we want your boughs! Paying 17 cents per pound. We do all the work, with over 20 years of experience. Call Crystal at 360-957-2578 or Ricardo 360-751-1045

Hoarder’s Paradise! 20 sizes, Inexpensive RV Storage, Carports, Hand trucks, Locks, Fully-lined, Insulated, Condensation free, all units lit. On-site Manager

503 728-2051 503 369-6503 Visa/MC/Amex

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Public Notices

CC22-1694

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE STATE OF OREGON FOR THE COUNTY OF COLUMBIA Probate Department In the Matter of the Estate of RANDALL LEE LILYA, Deceased. No. PB07382 NOTICE TO INTERESTED PERSONS NOTICE

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

required to present their claims, with vouchers attached, within four months after the date of first publication of this notice to the personal represen-

tative 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 addi-

tional information from the records of the Court, the personal representative or the attorney for the personal representative. Dated and first published October

21, 2022. Amanda Lilya Personal Representative. STEPHEN D. PETERSEN, L.L.C. Attorney at Law P. O. Box 459 Rainier, OR 97048.

WINTER

than normal December, January and February

• Wetter than normal Fall 2022 • Equal chances of wetter, drier or near normal precipitation December, January and February • Greater chance for slightly cooler temperatures

The NWS outline shows equatorial SSTs are below average across most of the Pacific Ocean, which would favor wetter and cooler than normal conditions for the Pacific Northwest this winter. The NWS November outlook favors a greater

chance of above normal precipitation with equal chances for above, near or below normal temperatures. The outlook for December through February shows a greater chance for above normal precipitation and a greater chance of below normal temperatures. The Oregon Drought Monitor shows moderate drought along the Oregon

Coastline with abnormally dry to moderate drought inland and extreme drought in eastern and southeast Oregon. The NWS longrange drought forecast shows conditions improving or even ending across much of Oregon and Washington through December. Forecasters said it’s too early to tell if Clatskanie, Rainier and other parts of

Columbia County will see snowfall this winter, but they said it’s always best to be prepared. Three weather elements, cold offshore flows, an air mass in place and moisture from the Pacific, rarely come together often, according to the NWS, but when that does happen it increases the chance of snow at lower elevations

in Columbia County and across the state. The NWS said under La Niña, winter temperatures in the lower elevations of the Pacific Northwest can range from the mid 40s to low 50s-day side and from the 20s to 30s overnight.

From Page A1

•

Jeremy C. Ruark may be reached at jruark@countrymedia.net.

•C rossword P uzzle • • STATEPOINT CROSSWORD THEME: ANIMAL WORLD ACROSS

1. Canned meat 5. Like low relief 8. First prime number 11. Itty bit 12. Deity, in Sanskrit 13. Adams of “Summer Of ‘69” fame 15. Wild plum in gin fizz 16. *Type of mountain goat 17. *Nest for an eagle 18. *Plant and animal lover 20. *Dapple animal mark 21. *Conform, according to Darwin 22. Battleship game success 23. Summer shoe 26. Famous Roman historian 30. Don McLean: “A long, long time ____...” 31. Diaphragm spasm 34. Reluctant 35. Whatchamacallit 37. “Days of ____ Lives” soap opera 38. Like Halloween 39. On a deck, perhaps 40. Assembly of all members 42. Card with single pip

43. Hindered 45. Unfortunate outcome 47. Business master 48. Soil for cultivation 50. Highlands hillside 52. *Host’s unwelcome guest 55. Dough 56. Biblical birthright seller 57. Volcanic rock 59. Rainbow-producing device 60. *Badger’s den 61. Newspaper piece 62. Hair controller 63. Miner’s bounty 64. *Deer group

DOWN

1. Sib 2. Horseback rider’s ball game 3. Minute bit 4. Dionysus’ follower 5. Yardbird’s jazz style 6. Deflect 7. Original home of the Saxons 8. Pro’s opposite 9. Hang around 10. Bit of binary code 12. Festival of Lights 13. Fundamental

14. *Snake or lizard 19. Montana’s neighbor 22. Accident 23. Long stories 24. To take in and feed livestock for payment 25. Like Curious George 26. Zig or zag 27. Synagogue scroll 28. Carthage’s ancient neighbor 29. *First animal clone 32. *____-blooded, like a snake 33. Prompter’s line 36. *Orca and elephant, but not crow or fish 38. Gives off 40. Princess tester? 41. Two dots above a letter 44. Letter-shaped girder 46. Civil War battle 48. Policeman’s shocker 49. About to explode 50. Not the life of the party 51. Agitate 52. 100 centavos in Mexico 53. Measuring roll 54. “Happily ____ after” 55. Frugal driver’s acronym 58. Put together

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

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Friday, November 4, 2022

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Sea lion disease outbreak can spread to dogs, humans BREEANA LAUGHLIN Country Media, Inc.

If you are planning a getaway to the Oregon Coast, the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife (ODFW) has issued an advisory about a spreading sea lion disease. The outbreak is giving people and their pets yet another reason to steer clear of marine mammals while they walk along the beach. The ODFW reported an increase in the number of stranded sea lions along the entire Oregon Coast – from Brookings to Astoria. Many of these sick and deceased sea lions have suffered from leptospirosis – a disease that can be passed along to animals and people. The Oregon Marine Mammal Stranding Network documented over 150 sick or dead sea lions along the Oregon Coast since the current outbreak began in late July 2022. Necropsies on seven sea lions confirmed all tested positive for leptospirosis. Meghan Durham, a representative for Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife said leptospirosis is

a naturally occurring bacteria that causes disease in sea lions and other wildlife. “It can happen in small numbers every year, and sometimes you get larger sporadic outbreaks of the disease,” Durham said. Although the outbreak is happening in numbers larger than usual, Durham said there isn’t any reason to believe it will impact the larger population of sea lions in Oregon. There are no rescue and rehabilitation options for sick or injured seals and sea lions in Oregon. The state policy is to minimize disturbance from people and to let nature take its course, according to the Oregon Marine Mammal Stranding Network. “There are currently no efforts to treat the sea lions (for leptospirosis) because it is something that occurs naturally,” Durham said. She said to her knowledge there is no correlation between climate change or other ocean health issues that is currently contributing to the current disease outbreak. But because leptospirosis is a zoonotic disease—meaning that people can get in-

Courtesy photo

The ODFW has reported an increase in the number of stranded sea lions along the entire Oregon Coast – from Brookings to Astoria. Many of these sick and deceased sea lions have suffered from leptospirosis – a disease that can be passed along to animals and people.

fected from animals and vice versa – wildlife officials are encouraging dog and horse owners to discuss the merits of vaccination for leptospirosis with their veterinarian. Brookings, Oregon veterinarian technician assistant Robi Chance says the leptospirosis vaccine is common and recommended for dogs in areas along the Oregon Coast. Leptospirosis

is a disease that is not only carried by sea lions but other wildlife such as deer and raccoons. Chance, who has been in the veterinary field for 30 years, said she encourages pet owners to keep their pets contained at the beach. “There’s a lot of things that they can get into on the beach that makes them sick,” she said.

There are a few possible ways dogs can contract leptospirosis, including if they “roll” in deceased animals with the disease, bite or ingest parts of animals with the disease, or by drinking water that is contaminated with urine from a diseased animal. The veterinarians’ recommendation to contain their animals goes along with ODFW and Oregon Parks and Recreation guidelines to leash their dogs and keep at least 150 feet away from live or dead sea lions. Close encounters with people can be harmful and continued disturbances may cause stress, including causing mothers to abandon their pups. Brookings resident Bob Oneida said he was a recent witness to a sick and dying sea lion on the Southern Oregon Coast. “It had crawled up onto the beach but was laying sideways to the ocean. The tide was coming in and the waves were washing over it a little further each time. Finally the waves started going over its head. It picked its nose up high enough to get out of the water, but as

soon as the wave receded it dropped its head to the sand,” Oneida said. “It was having a lot of trouble. Its breathing was very labored,” Oneida said. Oneida said several people were there watching the sea lion with him at Sporthaven Beach, including one with a dog – and the dog approached the sea lion. Leptospirosis can be serious and fatal to dogs. Infection of the liver or kidneys can be fatal for animals if the infection progresses, causing severe damage to these organs. Veterinarian technician Chance says it is best to vaccinate dogs because if they do get the disease it can be difficult and expensive to treat. It is also rare but possible that dogs with leptospirosis can transmit the disease to their owners. Sick or injured seals, sea lions, whales or dolphins can be reported to 1-800-4527888. For more information on wildlife diseases, contact ODFW’s wildlife health hotline at 1-866-968-2600.

State Capitol ceremony to honor veterans STAFF REPORT Country Media, Inc.

The Oregon Department of Veterans’ Affairs (ODVA) will honor all veterans of the U.S. Armed Forces during its statewide Veterans Day Ceremony this year in view of the Oregon State Capitol Building. The event will feature remarks by federal, state and local dignitaries and ceremonial elements including color guard, national anthem, wreath presentation and the play-

TIMBER From Page A1

try,” Oregon Board of Forestry Chair Jim Kelly said. “This agreement captures the spirit of cooperation and negotiation we have in this state, where we move past our differences to find solutions.” The goal of the PFA and the Forest Practices Act rule changes is to provide longterm certainty to industry while providing enhanced protection to critical aquatic species. “The timber industry is vital to many rural Oregon communities,” Kelly said. “This agreement balances these critical social and economic components with the need to better protect critical forest habitat, which is also incredibly beneficial for Oregonians,” said Kelly. The Oregon Department of Forestry (ODF) worked closely with the PFA authors to write the new rules that cover several key areas including: • New and wider stream buffers to protect stream habitat that supports salmon, steelhead, bull trout, and amphibians. • New design standards and requirements to inventory, maintain and manage forest roads, with an emphasis on replacing culverts on fishbearing streams. • Steep slopes to have more trees retained to improve slope stability and reduce sediment that can impact fish habitat. • Enhanced monitoring to better evaluate rule compliance. • A new adaptive management program to advise the Board of Forestry on future rule adjustments. In addition to rule changes, recent legislation also funded the creation of a small forestland owner assistance office, established tax credits to small landowners, started the development of a habitat conservation plan for aquatic species and made investments in training and outreach. The Oregon Board of Forestry made the rule changes at a special meeting Oct. 26. For more information about the Forest Practices Act and Private Forest Accord visit ODF’s PFA website.

ing of “Taps.” This year’s event will be held at 11 a.m., Thursday, Nov. 10 — the day before Veterans Day. The event will be hosted at the Oregon State Capitol Park located on Court Street Northeast in downtown Salem — directly in front of the Oregon State Capitol Building. While the celebration will honor Oregon veterans of all eras, there will be special recognition of Oregon’s Korean War generation. ODVA is honored to welcome Consul General Eunji Seo of the Consulate

of the Republic of Korea in Seattle who will serve as one of the event’s keynote speakers. The event is open to the public and uncovered seating will be provided for attendees. Accessible pathways and seating areas for those needing accommodations will also be provided. Attendees are reminded to plan accordingly for Oregon weather. For those unable to attend, the event will also be livestreamed on ODVA’s Facebook page at https:// www.facebook.com/odvavet.

Courtesy photo

This year’s event will be held at 11 a.m., Thursday, Nov. 10—the day before Veterans Day—at the Oregon State Capitol Park located on Court Street Northeast directly in front of the Oregon State Capitol Building in Salem.

R EC YC L E CO MP U T E R S, T V S, P A INTS , OIL S, & M OR E AT T H E C O L U MB I A C O U NT Y TRA NSF ER S TATIO N 1 6 01 Ra il ro ad A v e, S t. Hel ens Open Mon da y - S atu rda y, 8 a. m. - 5 p.m.

The following items are accepted for recycling at no charge. Place in designated bins. Commingled Recyclables Bin: same items as your curbside cart Cartons: milk and juice Newspaper Paper: brown paper bags, magazines and catalogs, scrap paper, cereal boxes, junk mail Plastic Jugs, Bottles, & Tubs: no styrofoam, take out containers, or bags Metal: aluminum, steel, tin cans Cardboard Bin: all corrugated cardboard – flattened Glass Bin: Only bottles and jars. NO WINDOW GLASS, dishware, cookware, porcelain or ceramics Metal Bin Scrap Metal Appliances: Metal dishwashers, water heaters, clothes dryers, clothes washers, stoves only. Appliances with refrigerant will be charged a fee for refrigerant recycling, see scale house. Electronics Recycling Area: computers, monitors, printers, TV’s – place into designated boxes Motor Oil Bin by the electronics recycling area: leave container on the shelf by the oil bin Cooking Oil Bin by the electronics recycling area: pour cooking oil into bin Architectural Paint: go across scales, alert scale house staff, drive to paint recycling area. Staff will unload. Interior and exterior architectural paint: For more information on acceptable paint products: http://productcare.org/Oregon-collection-sites.

The following items are accepted for recycling for a fee during normal operations Antifreeze Fluorescent Tubes Appliances with Refrigerant: refrigerators, freezers, A/C units Car Batteries Tires

FREE DISPOSAL of Medical Sharps in sealed OSHA approved container BRING containers to the SCALE HOUSE, containers must be sealed Consider participating in the sharps exchange container program: https://www.columbiacountyor.gov/departments/SolidWaste/medical-waste-and-sharps

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The Columbia County transfer station DOES NOT ACCEPT: Radioactive Materials Vechicles Asbestos Questions? For garbage/recycling, contact the Transfer Station Information Line at (503) 397-9811 For hazardous waste, contact the Columbia County Solid Waste Coordinator at (503) 397-7259