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FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 5, 2021
VOL. 130, NO. 26 Serving the Lower Columbia Region since 1891
Children approved for COVID-19 vaccinations JEREMY C. RUARK jruark@countrymedia.net ZOE GOTTLIEB chronicle2@countrymedia.net
The Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 vaccine is safe and effective for youth 5 to 11 years of age. That is the finding from the Western States Scientific Safety Review Workgroup following its review of the federal process of the vaccine. The Oregon Health Authority (OHA) began informing health care providers Wednesday, Nov. 3, that vaccinations for 5 to 11-year-olds can begin in Oregon. “This is great news for Oregon children, parents, and families,” Oregon Gov. Kate Brown said. “Vaccination is the best tool we have to protect ourselves and our loved ones. With the review by leading doctors, pediatricians, and health experts, Oregon parents and children can be confident in the safety and effectiveness of the Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine for 5 to 11-year-olds.” Brown said it is completely normal for parents and children to have questions about vaccines. “I urge you to reach out to your family doctor, health care provider, or pharmacist and get your questions answered today,” she said. “We are excited to be able to start immunizing school-age children against COVID-19, which should bring relief to many parents and guardians, and those who work in education and child care,” OHA Director Patrick Allen said. “We hope vaccinating kids will help our communities continue to build population immunity that will protect our children, help keep them
Metro Creative Connection / The Chief
The Food and Drug Administration authorized the vaccine for 5 through 11-year-olds on Oct. 26 after a Vaccines and Related Biological Products Advisory Committee review that found it’s safe and effective for this age group.
in school and ultimately bring this pandemic to an end.” The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) authorized the vaccine for 5 through 11-year-olds on Oct. 26 after a Vaccines and Related Biological Products Advisory Committee review that found it safe and effective for this age group. The federal government has a standard allocation system across all states. Roughly 120,000 initial, pre-order doses are coming to Oregon and have been ordered by vaccination providers. With delivery anticipated this week through Nov. 8, the supply will go to approximately 350 provider sites across the state, guided by state goals to protect children and end health disparities among communities of color. Vaccines will also arrive in Or-
egon within days after the anticipated go-live for vaccinating children ages 5 through 11. Every county has sites receiving pre-order shipments, and every enrolled provider that filed a request for doses was offered the vaccine. In addition, 60,000 doses were offered to pharmacy chains by the federal government. Those were allocated via a federal process with orders going to 87 pharmacy sites in the state. OHA estimates the 180,000 total Pfizer doses are likely a four to six-week supply of vaccines. The state has been informed it will have access to tens of thousands of doses to order for shipment on Nov. 9, again on Nov. 18 and thereafter on a periodic basis. Allen said it may take a few days before the COVID-19 pediatric
vaccine will be widely available. “We strongly recommend you contact your healthcare provider, community health center, clinic or local pharmacy before bringing your child in to be vaccinated,” Allen said. OHA is also working with the Oregon Department of Education (ODE), local public health authorities, the health care industry, community-based organizations and additional vaccine providers to make doses readily available at public and private schools, child care facilities, community sites and other locations easily accessible to families and education providers. “Your child should be able to be vaccinated within the next few weeks,” Allen said. “It is extremely important that all eligible children have equitable access to the vaccine
and we appreciate your patience as we go through this process.” Clatskanie School District Superintendent Cathy Hurowitz said the district currently has no plans to mandate the vaccine for our students. “We strongly encourage vaccinations,” she said. “We believe the vaccine is safe.” Hurowitz said the district has vaccines available every Tuesday and Thursday at its Student Based Health Clinic (SBHC) behind Clatskanie Middle/High School. “Anyone can get the COVID vaccine or any vaccine that is needed,” she said. “We are working with our county health services and health department and will be supporting vaccine clinics.” As of late Wednesday, Nov. 3, Hurowitz said the school district had not received a vaccine directive from OHA or the ODE. The Western States Scientific Safety Review Workgroup thoroughly reviewed safety data for the vaccine, including the absence of any severe adverse events among vaccine recipients in the clinical trial. Reactions were mild and similar to those seen in adolescents and adults and with other vaccines routinely recommended for children and were less common at ages 5-11 years than at 16-25 years. Washington, Oregon, and Nevada joined California’s COVID-19 Scientific Safety Review Workgroup in October. The workgroup, made up of nationally-acclaimed scientists with expertise in immunization and public health, has concurrently and independently reviewed the FDA’s actions related to COVID-19 vaccines. It will continue to evaluate other COVID-19 vaccines as they go through the federal process.
$500,000 for local businesses, nonprofits STAFF REPORT chiefnews@countrymedia.net
The Columbia County Board of Commissioners (CCBC) is making nearly $500,000 available for direct grants to small businesses and especially nonprofit organizations. Grant applications will be available beginning Wednesday, Nov. 3. The application period closes Friday, Nov. 26, but applicants are strongly encouraged to apply immediately. Grant awards will be announced by Dec. 31. Applicants are strongly encouraged to apply immediately. All applications will be registered and reviewed in order they are received, and successful awards will be made on a “first-in/first-served” basis until the funds are depleted. Successful applicants will be noti-
fied by award letter, followed by a check from Columbia Economic Team (CET) within a few days. The CCBC has made a concerted effort to make this new grant program simple and accessible, especially for nonprofit organizations that may have had difficulty qualifying for grants in 2020, according to a release from CET. Applicants are asked to provide their number of employees and/or volunteers for classification and evaluation purposes and nonprofits will be evaluated by the size of their annual operating budget, among other relevant criteria. Only one application may be made per business, and documentation will be required. Minimum eligibility requirements are:
• The business or organization is headquartered in Oregon and has its primary physical location principal operations in Oregon. • If required by Oregon law to be registered with the Oregon Secretary of State to do business in Oregon, the business or organization is registered. • The business is either a for-profit or an entity tax-exempt under section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code. • The business or organization incurred necessary expenditures or experienced a loss of revenue due to the COVID-19 public health emergency during the period of between March 1, 2020 and Nov. 30, 2021, as compared against the same period of time in 2019. See GRANT Page A4
Metro Creative Connection / The Chief
Businesses that have previously received Emergency Small Business Grant funds or CARES (PPP and EIDLA) are eligible to apply, so are businesses or organizations that have previously received emergency grants in 2020 and 2021.
Clatskanie Senior Center making a difference JEREMY C. RUARK jruark@countrymedia.net
Editor’s Note: In the Oct. 29 edition, The Chief reported that the Clatskanie Senior Center’s meals were continuing to be prepared
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at the Rainier Senior Center. In fact, the meals are prepared at the Clatskanie Senior Center. We are happy to set the record straight and present the following update about the center. For Joy Green and her volunteer team, it’s a passion of caring. Green is the director of the Clatskanie Senior Center’s dining room located downstairs in the Thomas J. Flippin House, locally known as The Castle, a 7,000 square foot mansion at 620 SW Tichenor Street in Clatskanie. Monday, Wednesday and Friday her small team cooks hot meals and prepares frozen meals for Tuesday and Thursday deliveries to the center’s 20 clients in the community through the center’s Home Delivered Meals Program.
Jeremy C. Ruark / The Chief
Meals for the Clatskanie Senior Center’s Home Delivered Meals Program are prepared at the remodeled kitchen in the center.
“We are cooking here,” Green said. “We are making a difference.” The center’s dining room has been closed due to the pandemic. “There are so many restrictions from the state allowing us to have
very few people in here and where you can sit,” she said. “We have to report everything. It’s been a nightmare.” Closing the dining room also limits the revenues brought into the center.
Currently the center has approximately 35 members. Joy said not having the open dining limits the usual social activity of the center’s members and community visitors. “Then again, some of them wouldn’t come because of the COVID,” she said. “We are hoping when we do open that we can get people to help us do other functions,” she said. Center activities in the past include card games and other functions. Joy said she is hopeful that when all the renovations at the Castle are completed, that will also bring in new members and donations as well. “We are looking for people to
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School district gains mental health services ZOE GOTTLIEB chronicle2@countrymedia.net
Columbia Health Services is expanding its Student Based Health Center (SBHC) program to include Clatskanie School District. According to Columbia Health Services (CHS) Director Sherrie Ford, the school district allocated a portion of its funds to the center in an effort to increase the scope of services. “The school district has asked us to provide more mental health services than have been provided in the past. But we didn’t require from them a report as to why they think that’s necessary,” Ford said. CHS is a non-profit in
the public health sector and operates SBHCs in various schools across Columbia County, according to its website. Ford said that the clinics have been a presence in schools across Columbia County since 2009, and CHS has previously partnered with Columbia County Mental Health (CCMH), and Columbia Pacific Coordinated Care Organization to discuss ways to bring affordable mental health resources to students. The center specializes in psychiatric care for both common and uncommon mental health disorders seen among adolescents and youth. “We have licensed mental health professionals who are working in the school-based health centers to provide care within their scope, which may mean
depression and anxiety, relationship issues, maybe thoughts of suicide or selfharm. Stressors, whether common or otherwise, challenges with nutritionrelated behaviors like eating disorders,” she said. “And then there are also behavioral things. If a classroom teacher or school counselor is noticing some behavioral issues or concerns, they may engage with the family, and recommend the schoolbased health centers mental health provider.” Data from Oregon Health Authority (OHA) shows that statewide, SBHC utilization rose 24% from 2014-15 to 2017-18, with almost one in five children identifying SBHC as their primary health resource as of 2018. Oregon law states that teens ages 14 and older can receive mental health treatment without parental consent, Ford said.
What we want to communicate to families is that we’re here for you. ~ Sherrie Ford, Director of Columbia Health Services
“School-based health centers are really meant to be a place for patients to invite a clinician into their team of people who can help them. We are really focused on the student’s goals, partnered with our best medical practice, per all of the providers’ licenses,” she said. “What we want to communicate to families is that we’re here for you. If you’re not sure if our services are the right match for you, we just encourage folks to call and ask how we
can support your family.” Amber Bathon, a licensed professional counselor, provides services through SBHC to kids within Clatskanie School District. She said that people are reluctant to seek help with their mental health, drawing from her 20 years of experience in the mental health field. “I think we’re so new in the process that we haven’t had a lot of experience with that yet. So, we’re really just getting that up and going,” Bathon said. “But I can say in my experience as a mental health therapist, that that is absolutely true. There’s still a stigma around receiving services. And part of bringing us into the school-based health centers and into the school communities is to help break down some of those walls.” Funding comes from the Oregon Health Authorities’ (OHA) Mental Health
Expansion Grant, Ford said, and that funding is for school-based health centers to add mental health care that may not be funded otherwise. Ford said this grant allows the center to fill in the gaps where a patients’ insurance doesn’t cover the whole cost of care, making it so no family has to pay out-of-pocket expenses. The center is located at 471 SW Belair Dr. on the Clatskanie Middle/High School Campus and mental health services are available to students from 8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. on Mondays, Tuesdays, and Thursdays. The center can be reached at (503) 728-5181. Students are asked to bring proof of health insurance and fill out forms. More information about health insurance and required forms is available online at columbia-health.org.
Youth share ‘lived-experience of homelessness’
Courtesy photo
The report offers recommendations to state lawmakers for youthspecific housing interventions, housing and services.
The Corporation for Supportive Housing (CSH) and Oregon Department of Human Services (ODHS) today announced the results of a statewide analysis that exam-
ined the need and pipeline for housing and services for youth experiencing or at risk of experiencing homelessness. Unique in the study was
a comprehensive effort to recruit and engage youth across the state with livedexperience of homelessness to inform and design housing and services programs that may receive state funding. The report offers recommendations to state lawmakers for youth-specific housing interventions, housing and services. The project was born from the 2020 session of the Oregon State Legislature after a proposed bill requested a study to understand better the level of appropriations required to address housing and service gaps statewide for young people. Presenters at the Statewide Symposium on Youth Experiencing Homelessness Programming (YEHP) shared the report titled, “Oregon Statewide Homeless Youth Needs Assessment.” “We appreciate the work that CSH has done to engage with community partners across the state, as well as with youth and young adults who have experienced, or are currently experiencing, housing instability and homelessness,” ODHS, Self-Sufficiency Program Director Dan Haun said. “ODHS will use the results and recommendations from
the statewide assessment to inform our ongoing efforts towards supporting youth in our Oregon communities.” “We applaud ODHS for their leadership and collaboration throughout this project. The project serves as a model for other states on how to engage the voices of youth with lived experience when designing housing and service programs that better utilize public resources to address the reality of youth homelessness,” Mountain West at CSH Director Annie Bacci said. “We are excited that this assessment will inform new appropriations from the 2021 legislative session.” The needs assessment required a comprehensive system modeling process that 1) outlined the “optimal” housing and services array across
five regions to estimate the statewide level of need; 2) completed a statewide financial model outlining the costs of identified housing and services needs from the regional system-modeling; and 3) provided a summary report and recommendations on the findings of the needs assessment. CSH worked with ODHS to recruit critical stakeholders from state systems in juvenile justice, child welfare, education, healthcare and homeless system partners. They also conducted an intensive effort to recruit and engage youth. CSH then segmented the youth into groups under 18 and 18-24 to address the needs specific to each age group. CSH arranged to compensate the youth for their time and expertise.
“We led each regional team through a process of mapping out an ideal system for ensuring youth had the lowest barriers to safe and affordable housing and the services they would need to thrive,” Bacci said. “We are most excited that these youth leaders are still engaged and have begun the process of forming a statewide youth advisory board that will work with leaders to design supportive housing and services.” The report, attached with this story at thechiefnews.com, is available on the ODHS Runaway and Homeless Youth website or can be viewed by visiting the direct link: https://www. oregon.gov/dhs/CHILDREN/Homeless-Youth/ Documents/CSH-YHNeeds.pdf.
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Metro Creative Connection / The Chief
Clocks are to be turned back one hour at 2 a.m. Sunday, Nov. 7.
This Sunday, Nov. 7 at 2 a.m. is the traditional return to Standard Time. Most areas of the United States, including Oregon, will “fall back” as we set our clocks back one hour ending Daylight Saving Time. The return of Standard Time comes as the sun will rise a bit earlier and we’ll be able to “gain” one hour of sleep, according to the Farmer’s Almanac. Daylight Saving Time started March 14, when we “spring ahead” and set our clocks ahead by one hour in an effort to save energy.
HIDDEN FIGURES VIRTUAL BOOK DISCUSSION
Join us at 7 PM, November 3 on Zoom for an allages discussion of our 2021 Columbia County Reads book "Hidden Figures" What are your thoughts about the themes of the book? How can you apply them to your life? Register at: https://tinyurl.com/fhz7jb4
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Historic forest protection agreement STAFF REPORT chiefnews@countrymedia.net
The parties agreed on a framework for:
Gov. Kate Brown has announced that nearly 10 months of negotiations between private forestry representatives, small forestland owners, conservation leaders, and fishing organizations has resulted in a historic proposal for new protections for sensitive species on over 10 million acres of forestland in Oregon. The proposal seeks to meet the federal standards for a statewide Habitat Conservation Plan. The changes to the Forest Practices Act agreed to by the parties will be brought before the Oregon Legislature. The historic agreement is a perfect example of the Oregon Way – coming together at the table to find common ground, to the mutual benefit of us all, according to Brown. “Together, this agreement will help to ensure that Oregon continues to have healthy forests, fish, and wildlife, as well as economic growth for our forest industry and rural communities, for generations to come,” Brown said. “I would like to thank everyone involved for their role in making this agreement a reality.”
• Riparian buffers for streams, rivers, and bodies of water. • Steep slopes protection to minimize erosion and protect habitat. • An approach moving forward to improve forest roads. • A path forward to make adjustments and adaptation to forest practices in the future. In February of 2020, Brown brokered an agreement between numerous conservation and fishing groups and timber and forest products entities to abandon a costly and divisive ballot initiative fight in exchange for proactive legislation supporting collaboratively developed changes to forest practices. The agreement, called the Private Forest Accord, led to bipartisan legislation that passed with overwhelming majorities in June 2020. The legislation codified the historic agreement, funded the negotiating process now underway, and enacted a set of significant reforms to the Forest Practices Act, some of which went into effect Jan. 1. The new laws addressed
Metro Creative Connection / The Chief
Legislation will be brought forward to the Oregon Legislature to solidify the Private Forest Accords in statute.
aerial applications of pesticides on forestland within 300 ft. of homes, schools and drinking water, and created a new, first-in-the-nation realtime neighbor notification and reporting requirement. “This is truly an exciting time to be a part of the Oregon forest sector,” Forest Companies Coalition Representative David Bechtold said. “We’re extremely proud to have started a process for more constructive engagement on forest policy issues. This is a new era that will produce
the best outcomes for Oregon’s private forests and the communities that depend on them to provide clean water, recreation, renewable wood products and year-round, family-wage jobs.” “We are thrilled to join the Governor and timber industry counterparts on a new path for Oregon’s forests and for our organizations,” Oregon Policy Director at Wild Salmon Center Bob Van Dyk said. “The measures provide significant new protections for our fisheries, for cold clean water, and
for the people who rely on these resources.” On Jan. 12, the parties began a series of meetings in which they discussed proposed changes to forest practices, pursuing a statewide Habitat Conservation Plan from federal agencies for threatened and endangered species, which would provide more regulatory certainty for landowners and long-term conservation benefits to designated wildlife species. The parties worked intensively throughout the year towards formalizing an agreement to bring before the Oregon Legislature. Brown’s office worked with signatories to identify the negotiating teams and appointed experienced mediator Peter Koehler. With the assistance of Peter Harkema from Oregon Consensus and the Governor’s Office, the parties worked tirelessly toward a deal, according to a release from Brown’s office. The conservation and fishing side representatives are Bob Van Dyk (Wild Salmon Center), Sean Stevens (Oregon Wild), Chrysten Lambert (Trout Unlimited), Bob Sallinger (Portland Audubon), Joseph Vaile (Klamath Sis-
kiyou Wildlands Center), and Dr. Kelly Burnett (Aquatic Scientist). Also joining in the agreement are the Beyond Toxics, Cascadia Wildlands, Northwest Guides and Anglers, the Oregon League of Conservation Voters, the Oregon Stream Protection Coalition, The Pacific Coast Federation of Fishermen’s Associations, Rogue Riverkeeper, and Umpqua Watersheds. For the timber sector the representatives are Adrian Miller (Rayonier), Diane Meyers (Weyerhaeuser), Cameron Krauss (Seneca Sawmill Company), Heath Curtiss (Hampton Lumber), Eric Geyer (Roseburg Forest Products), and Jim James (Oregon Small Woodlands Association). Also joining in the agreement are Hancock Natural Resource Group, Lone Rock Resources, Greenwood Resources, Campbell Global, Starker Forests, and Port Blakely. Legislation will be brought forward to the Oregon Legislature to solidify the Private Forest Accords in statute. The state will bring forward the proposal for consideration by NOAA Fisheries and the US Fish and Wildlife Service as a Habitat Conservation Plan.
OSP investigating 2 unlawful takes in Columbia County Oregon State Police (OSP) are seeking the public’s help in solving two unlawful takes. On Oct. 23, OSP responded to the report of a bull elk shot near Mist. The bull was located near Lane Creek Mainline off of the Columbia River Mainline near milepost 21. The location is on a Weyerhaeuser drive-in permit area in Columbia County. Four quarters of meat were taken but the rest was left to waste. The unlawful take happened between October 22, 2021, and the morning of October 23, 2021. OSP investigators are requesting public assistance
with information about the waste. Any person with information related to this incident is encouraged to call the OSP TIP (Turn-In-Poachers) Reward line at 1-800452-7888 or by cell at *OSP (*677) or send an email tip to TIP@osp.oregon.gov. Reference case # SP21300901. Unlawful take 2 On Oct. 28, OSP responded to a report of a bull elk shot near Fernhill Road and Cook Road in Columbia County. The bull was shot on private property and left to waste in a field approximately fifty yards from Fernhill Road. Multiple
neighbors reported hearing a gunshot around 2:30 a.m. on the same day. The OSP is requesting public assistance with information about this waste. Any person with information related to this incident is encouraged to call the OSP TIP (Turn-In-Poachers) Reward line at 1-800-452-7888 or by cell at *OSP (*677) or send an email tip to TIP@ osp.oregon.gov. Reference case # SP21305132. How to report a wildlife and/or habitat law violation or suspicious activity TIP Hotline: 1-800-4527888 or *OSP (677) TIP
E-Mail: TIP@state.or.us. The Oregon Hunters Association TIP reward offers preference points or cash rewards for information leading to an arrest or issuance of a citation for the unlawful take/possession or waste of Bighorn Sheep, Rocky Mountain Goat, Moose, Elk, Deer, Antelope, Bear, Cougar, Wolf, Upland Birds, Waterfowl, Furbearers, Game Fish and Shellfish. Cash rewards can also be awarded for turning in people who destroy habitat, illegally obtain licenses/ tags, and for the unlawful lending/borrowing of big game tags.
Courtesy from OSP
OSP investigators said the unlawful take near Mist happened between Oct. 22 and the morning of Oct. 23.
Water main break
ATTENTION Columbia County Photographers
The Chronicle and The Chief are publishing the 2022 Columbia County Calendar and we want to showcase your photography! Only 14 photos will be chosen. Submit your photo to chronicleclassifieds@countrymedia.net for consideration. Please include name and phone number. If selected, you will receive five free calendars along with recognition on the calendar page.
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Deadline to submit your photography is Nov. 10, 2021 Submitted photos must be 3.5 mb or larger, 300 ppi., in .jpg format, and be able to fit into a 10.5 x 8 space. Photos that do not meet these requirements may be rejected or replaced.
Website: thechronicleonline.com • thechiefnews.com Phone: (503) 397-0116 Email: chronicleclassifieds@countrymedia.net
Jeremy C. Ruark / The Chief
A temporary patch has been placed along this roadway following the water main break. JEREMY C. RUARK jruark@countrymedia.net
A water main break sent water gushing onto to a local road and affected service for about 30 city residents. “We had a water main break on Oct. 23 on Legion Lane,” Clatskanie City Manager Greg Hinkelman said. “The break was significant in that we lost about
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200,000 gallons of water and it washed out the road.” Hinkelman said one resident called the city saying he could see the water gushing onto the street from the break. Other nearby residents also called stating they had low water pressure. About 30 customers were impacted by the incident. “The water was shutoff for about two hours while a city public works crew repaired the line with an extra
•C rossword S olutions • •
Solution for the October 29, 2021 crossword puzzle
pipe,” Hinkelman said. “We issued a phone call to residents affected to boil water for 24 hours. Whenever you open a water line there is a chance of contamination and we have the residents boil for about 24 hours.” Hinkelman took a funding proposed to the Clatskanie City Council Wednesday night, Nov. 3, to get approval to permanently fix the water main break. “We need fix the road by having the asphalt removed, the base fixed, and then repaved,” he said. “The cost of the project will be about $25,000.” Hinkelman said funding will come from savings made following the Bel Air paving project. “When we budgeted for the Bel Air repave, we budgeted $225,000 based on an estimate given to us at the time we put the budget (FY 2021-22) together,” he said. “This $225,000 was budgeted into the street fund. When we actually did the project, it came in a little under $194,000, which is $31,000 under the $225,000 we budgeted for. Given we have a savings of $31,000 that was allocated to the street fund and not spent, we have the money to cover the cost of the Legion Lane repair.” The long-term work to repair the water main break was continued this week.
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•V iewpoints • •
LJSA a critical piece of legislation ZACHARY RICHNER Chief Guest Column
I was disheartened to read in last week’s opinion page that Matt Walsh, CEO of Observer Media Group, opposes the Local Journalism Sustainability Act. Before I explain why the LJSA is a critical piece of legislation, allow me to provide some background on the LJSA and to make some factual corrections to Walsh’s column. The LJSA is a standalone piece of legislation with tremendous bipartisan support — from Rep. Ro Khanna and Rep. Val Demings on the left to Rep. Lee Zeldin and Rep. Vern Buchanan on the right. As Walsh noted, the LJSA proposes three tax credits: one
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Businesses that have previously received Emergency Small business Grant funds or CARES (PPP and EIDLA) are eligible to apply, so are business or organizations that have previously received emergency grants in 2020 and 2021. The following businesses are ineligible to apply for or receive funding under the Program: • Passive real estate holding companies and entities
for local journalism organizations, one for citizens and one for small businesses. The draft of Congress’ reconciliation bill, however, only includes one of these three tax credits: the credit for local journalism organizations. This tax credit provides a 50% credit in year one and a 30% credit in years two through five against the first $50,000 of a local journalist’s salary. It is not an automatic $25,000 credit per journalist. Walsh also asks: “Why not credits for small retailers? Restaurateurs? Small grocers? Construction companies?” What a great idea, Matt. To provide some support to the small businesses that are the engine of our local economies during an unprecedented global pandemic. Luckily, that’s
exactly what the LJSA’s tax credit for small businesses does. It provides a tax credit to small businesses to market themselves and spur local commerce. Importantly, as Walsh correctly implies, the national media and local media are very different beasts. The former seems to be as much about entertainment as anything else, whereas the latter provides communities with the objective reporting and information needed to function. In other words, local news organizations provide truth. That’s why a recent Poynter poll found that Americans trust local news more than any other media channel by far. And for good reason. There is now empirical data showing that communities
without a source of local news experience increased political polarization, increased public corruption, increased cost of municipal borrowing and increased toxic environmental emissions. These communities also experience decreased voter turnout, decreased civic engagement, and decreased transparency and accountability of elected officials and business leaders. I was also disappointed to see Walsh call local news organizations a “special interest.” Nothing could be further from reality. In fact, it is the role of local news organizations to keep special interests in check, and local news organizations do a damn good job of it. Just last month, for instance, the Observer
broke a story about illegal land development, leading to the director of the building department’s resignation. There are countless more examples like this. Local news is all about getting as close to the truth as possible on the issues that affect the daily lives of you and your neighbors. Yet, sadly, one-quarter of all newsrooms have shuttered since 2004, and 60% of U.S. counties now have zero or only one source of local news. If this trend continues, the consequences to our local communities and to our democracy writ large will be devastating. The LJSA would provide the temporary support to local news organizations that is needed to reverse this trend. The LJSA’s clear-cut eligibility stan-
dards mean there is no ability for government officials to weaponize this legislation, and perceived “rightleaning” and “left-leaning” local media outlets will benefit equally. The biggest beneficiaries, however, will be our great nation’s citizens through the preservation of our democracy. Matt Walsh believes that Milton Friedman is the answer for everything. News flash: Profit might respond to free-market libertarianism, but truth does not. Enact the Local Journalism Sustainability Act today.
holding passive investments. • Non-profit entities that do not have federal 501(c)(3) status. • Businesses that experience a decline in revenues for reasons other than those caused by the COVID-19 pandemic (e.g. seasonal or cyclical businesses cycles). • Businesses that are delinquent on federal, state or local taxes that were due on or before the date of application. • Businesses that do not comply with all federal, state and local laws and regulations. • Businesses that have closed and do not intend to reopen.
Due date for grant applications is Nov. 26. Don’t wait, apply today. If applications exceed the money available, grant awards will be made on a first in/first served basis. Completed grant applications must be submitted by email to grants@columbiacountyoregon.com or hardcopies delivered to CET, PO Box 1653, St. Helens, Oregon 97051 no later than 11:59 p.m. on Friday Nov. 26, 2021.
businesses that drive countywide collaboration to retain and grow our businesses, and also recruit new companies that will feed a balanced economy. By necessity, CET has been at ground-level during the pandemic and recovery: focusing on small business with daily news and resource posts; small business website and assistance; collaborations throughout the county; accessing grant, material, and loan funds for small business; providing low-cost PPE, and more. With regional and state partners, CET is actively recruiting businesses that even
now are looking to use this historic disruption to make even more change by expanding or relocating, positioning their company for the new and forever-altered future in a new place that we’re fortunate to already call home.
nity assets, support economic development, and ensure economic vitality for businesses and organizations throughout Columbia County, Oregon. Keep It Local Columbia County’s goal is to help citizens find the true value in a successful range of local businesses and to promote shopping locally whenever possible in order to sustain healthy and economically balanced communities.
Jeremy C. Ruark / The Chief
The senior center’s dining room is closed for in-dining due to the COVID-19 pandemic restrictions but the prepared meals for clients are assembled for delivery in the room.
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become center sponsors,” she said. “People sponsoring a client or giving donations to support the meals program and the expenses of the center.” Anyone interested in donating or becoming a center sponsor may call 503-7283608 for more information. Improvements A $500,000 renovation project at The Castle included upgrades at the senior center. Green said the work included upgrades to the center’s bathrooms and improvements to the center’s kitchen. “All new countertops, drawers, more storage space,
more counter space,” she said. “It is really easier to work in. It’s much nicer.” Green also acknowledges donations from the Columbia Pacific Food Bank, the St. Helens-based main distributor of food to local pantries in Columbia County. “Through huge grants, they have been able to supply more food,” Green said. “They send me a list of the things they have, and I send it back to them with what we need. We have been very lucky to have that.” Green said the senior center isn’t just for seniors. “You don’t have to be a senior to come here,” Green said. “A lot of people don’t realize that.” When the pandemic restrictions are eased, or lifted people can come for lunch and for other functions at the center, Green said. “So, we are more than just seniors,” she said.
About the Columbia Economic Team (CET) The CET is comprised of local governments and private The center uses eight drivers for the meal deliveries and four volunteers at the center, including Green. “I am here, but I also do the grocery shopping and go over the menus,” she said. Green’s husband became a driver at the center about 12 years ago and currently coordinates the drivers today. Her husband’s connection years ago bought her to the center to help. “I would come in on my vacation and have lunch and I just started working with the other people,” she said. According to Green, the center and its volunteers make an important social connection to the seniors and center visitors. She said the meal deliveries are an important way for the volunteers to help socialize with the clients. “A lot of our people don’t have family who we deliver to, and even now with the COVID we have had to pull back,” she said. “We are supposed to put the meals at the door and say hi to them, but we can’t go inside and set up.” That limits needed social interaction with the seniors, Green said, adding that families and others need to step up and help with socializing for the inbound seniors. To find out specifics about qualifying for the meal delivery, contact the Community Action Team’s Marge Tuomi at 503-201-5710.
The Chief
About “Keep It Local” Columbia County Keep It Local Columbia County is a CET program driven community leaders, business owners, and community organizations that have come together to spearhead to promote our local businesses as commu-
Zachary Richner is an American tax payer and concerned citizen. This guest column was first published Oct. 29 by the Observer Media Group.
For more information, contact the Columbia Economic Team at 503-805-5139 or paulvogel@columbiacountyoregon.com.
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Friday, November 5, 2021
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•O bituaries • •
Dayton Ray Thorp
Mary Martin
Feb. 17, 1948 ~ Oct. 21, 2021 A loving husband, father and brother, Dayton Ray Thorp of Rainier, Oregon suddenly and unexpectedly passed on to God on Oct. 21, 2021, at his home in Rainier, Oregon, at the age of 73. He was born on Feb. 17, 1948 in Portland, Oregon to Barbara (Peters) and Chet Thorp of St. Helens, Oregon. Dayton attended St. Frederic Catholic school and graduated from St. Helens High School in 1967. From there he earned his associates from PCC in automotive, aviation airframe and power plant mechanic. He moved to Central Point, Oregon and started working for Erickson Aircrane, assembling and rebuilding Sikorsky Skycrane helicopters, which he loved and was great at what he did. Here he and his wife Mary McCulloch started a family and had three children. After his divorce, Dayton moved back North to Warren, Oregon where he met the love of his life Beverly Clark, got married in 1989, and raised their children. There he took a job with the St. Helens School District as head custodian. During retirement, and after the passing of his wife Beverly, he moved to Rainier, Oregon, to stay near all of his kids and grandkids as they were the joy of his life. Dayton had a lot of things he was
interested in. He liked: snow, Christmas lights, chocolate, and antique Ford trucks. But he loved: family, going to Mount Hood with Bev, family camping, family vacations to Sunriver, Alaska cruises with Bev, watching his grandkids grow up and attending every one of their sport games, and going out of his way to help others. People in the community talk about and remember him as always being the first to help out in a time of need. He was such a thoughtful, selfless, giving person, and an amazing role model. His great smile and optimistic view of things helped others, especially during their times of distress. He was a hard worker who put others before himself and was always there to rely on even when you didn’t know. He was an amazing father and will be so
very missed. Dayton was involved with St. Wenceslaus Catholic Church, the Knights of Columbus, the American Truck Historical Society that he loved, the Rainier Senior Center, and was a Boy Scout troop leader when his sons were younger. Dayton was preceded in death by his wife of 22 years, Beverly; and his parents, Barbara and Chet, whom he is now reunited with in heaven. Dayton is survived by his three sisters, JoAn, Sue and Mary; three children, Jolena, Joseph and Jesse; nine grandchildren, Hope, Trinity, Evan, Owen, Thea, Ethan, Kaylee, Wyatt and Brynlee; new great grandchild, Leilah Heflin; as well as many cousins, nieces and nephews, and friends. He will be interred in the memorial wall at Columbia Memorial Gardens in Warren, Oregon next to his wife Beverly. A funeral service will be held at 11 a.m. on Sat., Nov. 13, 2021, at Saint Wenceslaus Catholic Church in Scappoose, Oregon. A reception will follow in the parish hall at noon. Any flowers or donations can be dropped off at Columbia Funeral Home in St. Helens. Please sign our online guestbook at www.columbiafh.com.
Jack Allen Miller
Aug. 16, 1967 ~ Oct. 22, 2021 Jack Allen Miller, a longtime resident of Clatskanie, Oregon passed away on Oct. 22, 2021. He was born August 16,1967 in Las Vegas, Nevada. Jack was a brother, father, uncle, and friend to many. Jack is survived by his brothers, Darrell Miller of McMinnville, Oregon and Dale Miller of Las Vegas, Nevada; sister Avonne Fish of Las Vegas, Nevada; brother Bobby Pickle of Texas;
and Rea Ann and Ariel of Lake Havasu, Arizona. Jack is preceded in death by his father Marvin Miller of Clatskanie, Oregon and Betty Holderness of New Meadows, Idaho. Jack loved to hunt and fish, especially loved to go fishing. The fish will be much safer now. :) Jack was funny and loved by so many, he will be dearly missed. RIP my brother. Celebration of Life TBD.
George LeRoy Guisinger Aug. 1, 1930 ~ Oct. 29, 2021
George LeRoy Guisinger , 91 of Rainier, passed away October 29, 2021 at home. A service will be held at 2 p.m. on Sun., Nov. 7, 2021 at Alston Corner Assembly of God Church.
•
July 8, 1930 ~ Oct. 24, 2021 Mary Elizabeth Peters Martin, age 91, of Clatskanie Oregon, passed away peacefully on Oct. 24, 2021, with her family by her side. She was born on July 8, 1930, in South Bend, Indiana, the fifth of six children. After graduating from high school, she moved to San Diego, California where she worked for the public school system. Mary loved nature and travel and while living in San Diego spent most of her free time traveling, hiking, backpacking, and skiing with her friends. One hiking adventure was of particular significance. Mary was a Sierra Club trip leader guiding a hike up Telescope Peak in Death Valley and it was during this trip she met her future husband, Vaughn, who was a participant in the hiking group. They were later married on January 26, 1965. Mary loved animals and was a mom to many wonderful family dogs during her lifetime. She also loved spending time in the kitchen preparing delicious food and there was always a fabulous meal awaiting
her family whether coming home from work, school, or outdoor adventures. She supported the local community volunteering with social services and assisting in school classrooms. Mary was a devout Catholic and was very active in her local parish, St. John the Baptist Catholic Church, throughout the years. Later in life, she traveled extensively with her husband including a road trip across Canada, a trip to Churchill, Manitoba to see polar bears, a three-month adventure to Australia and New Zealand, and many other domestic trips within the United States. Mary devoted her life to her fam-
ily, loving them unconditionally and sacrificing everything for them. Her family is eternally grateful and indebted to her. They love and miss her deeply but are comforted knowing that she now rests in peace with her savior Lord Jesus Christ. Mary, beloved wife, mother, grandmother, aunt, and friend will be deeply missed by all who were blessed to know her. Mary is survived by her husband of 56 years, Vaughn; children, Alexis Martin (Joe), Keith Martin, and Ann Martin (George); granddaughter Julianna; her special dog Luna; and many nieces and nephews. She is preceded in death by her parents, Steve and Anna Peters; and all her five siblings. A memorial Mass will be held at 11 a.m. on Jan. 15, 2022 at St. John the Baptist Catholic Church, SW High Street, Clatskanie, Oregon. In lieu of flowers please make donations in Mary’s memory to Longview Community Home Health and Hospice (www.chhh. org) or Medical Teams International (www.medicalteams.org).
Patricia Leila Jones
Nov. 27, 1938 ~ Oct. 27, 2021 Patricia Leila Jones, age 82, of Clatskanie, Oregon went home to be with the Lord, on Oct. 27, 2021. Patricia (Pat) was born on Nov. 27, 1938 in Camas, Washington to Jay Clarence and Lucretia Heriford. Pat graduated from Camas High School and attended Clark Junior College in Vancouver, Washington for two years prior to marrying John Jones in 1959. Although they resided in both Washington and Oregon, they spent over 50 years together in Alaska. She learned to hunt and commercial fish with her family. Among the things she enjoyed were cooking, baking, reading, sewing, quilting, crocheting, playing the piano and
opening her heart and home to others. She was an active member Assembly of God churches wherever she lived. Patricia is survived by her husband John Jones of Clatskanie, Oregon; daughters, Shelly (Scott) Mensch of North Pole, Alaska and Julie Jones of DuPont, Washington; grandchildren, Amber Mensch and Curtis Mensch of North Pole,
Alaska, Chantel (Clay) Dabney of Vail, Arizona, and Parker and Sofia Jones of DuPont, Washington; great-grandchildren, Cameron, Carson and Carleigh Dabney of Vail, Arizona; sister Virgina (Marvin) Abbott of Clatskanie, Oregon; brother James (Mieko) Heriford of Ridgefield, Washington; and numerous cousins, nieces and nephews.
•C rossword P uzzle • • STATEPOINT CROSSWORD THEME: BASKETBALL ACROSS
1. Repeating word on South Pacific map 5. Bro’s sibling 8. Dashboard abbr. 11. Fusses 12. *Basketball slam 13. Go “Boo!” 15. Boisterous play 16. Upper hand 17. Part of mortise joint 18. *Unopposed attempt to score (2 words) 20. “The Famous Five” children’s writer Blyton 21. *Basketball player Bojan Bogdanovic or Drazen Petrovic 22. “Mares eat ____” or “does eat ____,” sing. 23. One who covers in silver, e.g. 26. Figure 30. Be ill 31. Part of “panther” 34. Capital of Latvia 35. Like helium 37. Quilting party 38. Analyze 39. Dehydrated 40. Litter of piglets 42. Down Under bird
43. a.k.a. aardvark 45. Provincial governor in ancient Persia 47. Argo propeller 48. Subway in Paris 50. Conclusion starter 52. *Made basket (2 words) 56. Not a soul 57. Like animal near extinction 58. Greek sandwich 59. Bandages 60. Arabian bigwig 61. Answer to “Shall we?” 62. Bar offering 63. *It sends a basketball game to overtime 64. Highland tongue
DOWN
1. Vomit 2. Sensory input 3. It wasn’t built in a day 4. Characteristic to consider 5. Traditional scarf/headdress 6. Brick of precious metal 7. Place at an angle 8. Indian princess 9. Circus trainer’s poker 10. ‘80s band “____ At Work” 12. Remove antlers 13. Titanic propeller
14. *Shaquille O’Neal and Wilt Chamberlain, e.g. 19. Halloween option 22. Not their 23. 1/100th of a rupee 24. Wrinkle-prone natural fabric 25. Warning 26. ____-do-well 27. Part of a stair 28. Old World lizard 29. *Fast-break ____ 32. Skier’s aid 33. Part of H.M.S. 36. *Reward after missed shot 38. *Larry O’Brien NBA Championship Trophy, e.g. 40. Away’s partner 41. Stable worker 44. Relieves 46. On/off type of switch 48. *____ Hurricanes 49. Creepy 50. Work very hard 51. Use a whetstone 52. Worry without necessity 53. Deed hearing 54. A in A&E Network 55. *The Phoenix Suns did it in the 2021 NBA Finals 56. *Professional basketball league
Solution to crossword in next week’s issue of The Chief. Columbia County’s trusted local news source
A6
CC21-1531
NOTICE OF PUBLIC MEETING CLATSOP COUNTY COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE SOUTHWEST COASTAL PLANNING AREA CITIZEN ADVISORY COMMITTEE NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the Clatsop County Comprehensive Plan Update Southwest Coastal Planning Area Citizen Advisory Committee will hold a public meeting at 10:00 AM on Wednesday, November 10, 2021, via GoTo Meeting. This will be the fourth in a series of five meetings in which committee will discuss the Southwest Coastal Community Plan, as part of the ongoing Clatsop County Comprehensive Plan up-
date. To join the meeting from a computer, tablet or smartphone: https:// global.gotomeeting.com/ join/890202445 You can also dial in using your phone: United States (Toll Free): 1 866 899 4679 United States: +1 (571) 317-3117 Access Code: 890-202-445 An agenda will be posted seven days prior to the hearing at: https://www.co.clatsop. or.us/southwestcoastalcac/ meeting/southwest-coastal-
CC21-1525
advisory-committee-2. All documents are available for inspection at the Clatsop County Planning Division at 800 Exchange St, Suite 100, during normal business hours (M-F 7:30 a.m.-4 p.m.) at no cost. Paper copies may also be obtained at reasonable cost. If you have questions about this matter or need more information, please contact the Planning Division at (503) 325-8611 or at comdev@co.clatsop.or.us.
CC21-1538
NOTICE OF PUBLIC MEETING CLATSOP COUNTY COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE ELSIE-JEWELL / SEASIDE RURAL PLANNING AREA CITIZEN ADVISORY COMMITTEE NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the Clatsop County Comprehensive Plan Update Elsie-Jewell / Seaside Rural Planning Area Citizen Advisory Committee will hold a public meeting at 2:00PM on Friday, November 12, 2021, via GoTo Meeting. The Committee will discuss the Elsie-Jewell and Seaside Rural community plans. Other Goals and policies related to the Elsie-Jewell and Seaside Rural planning areas may
CC21-1532
TO INTERESTED PERSONS NOTICE OF PUBLIC SALE In the matter of State of present them, with vouchers, Oregon Circuit Court for Columbia County (Probate Dept) Kirk W. Fraser, deceased; Estate personal representatives are Scott and Vance Fraser, PO Box 611, Clatskanie OR 97016. TO INTERESTED PERSONS: Those having claims against the estate are required to
within four months after first notice date of 10-29-2021, to the above representatives, or they may be barred. All persons whose rights may be affected by the proceeding can obtain additional information from court records, the personal representatives, or their attorney.
Notice is hereby given that Columbia NW Self Storage located at 75764 Heath Rd. Rainier, OR 97048. Will sell to satisfy lien of the owner, by public sale via on-line auction @ storageauctions.com. The following storage units, F11 Dana McDonald misc.
CC21-1530
NOTICE OF SEEKING CANDIDATES Northwest Regional Education Service District is seeking candidates interested in filling the remaining term of the appointed board position: Business. The five elected members of the NWRESD Board will interview and vote for
an appointed ESD board member on December 14, 2021. The newly elected board member will take office immediately upon appointment and their term will end June 30, 2023. Candidates may apply online at www.nwresd.org
under Board of Directors Elections. The deadline for filing is no later than November 29, 2021 at 11:59 p.m. Questions may be directed to the Northwest Regional ESD Board Secretary at 503-614-1401 or lslyh@nwresd.org.
CC21-1535
CLATSOP COUNTY COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE CLATSOP PLAINS PLANNING AREA CITIZEN ADVISORY COMMITTEE NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the Clatsop County Comprehensive Plan Update Clatsop Plains Planning Area Citizen Advisory Committee will hold a public meeting at 2:00 PM on Wednesday, November 10, 2021, via GoTo Meeting. The committee will be discussing the Clatsop Plains Community Plan. Topics of discussion may include other Goals and policies related to the Clatsop Plains planning area. To join the meeting from your computer, tablet or smartphone.
Friday, November 5, 2021
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https://global.gotomeeting.com/join/789458365 You can also dial in using your phone. United States (Toll Free): 1 866 899 4679 United States: +1 (669) 224-3319 Access Code: 789-458-365 An agenda will be posted seven days prior to the hearing at: https://www. co.clatsop.or.us/landuse/ meeting/clatsop-plainsadvisory-committee-10. All documents are available for inspection at the Clatsop County Planning Division
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at 800 Exchange St, Suite 100, during normal business hours (M-F 7:30 a.m.-4 p.m.) at no cost. Paper copies may also be obtained at reasonable cost. The full agenda packet is posted at: https:// www.co.clatsop.or.us/landuse/meeting/clatsop-plainsadvisory-committee-10. If you have questions about this matter or need more information, please contact the Planning Division at (503) 325-8611 or at comdev@ co.clatsop.or.us.
boxes and Furniture. C15 Domenika Galpern misc. bags of clothing, boxes. F34 Kari Hollander large totes, boxes and safe. Auction dates are set for 11/5/21 thru 11/19//21. Bidder must comply with storageauctions.com rules of sale stated on the website.
also be discussed. To join the meeting from your computer, tablet or smartphone. https://global.gotomeeting.com/join/552752757 You can also dial in using your phone. United States (Toll Free): 1 877 309 2073 United States: +1 (646) 7493129 Access Code: 552752-757 An agenda will be posted seven days prior to the hearing at: https://www. co.clatsop.or.us/calendar. All documents are available for inspection at the Clatsop
County Planning Division at 800 Exchange St, Suite 100, during normal business hours (M-F 7:30 a.m.-4 p.m.) at no cost. Paper copies may also be obtained at reasonable cost. The full agenda packet is posted at: https://www.co.clatsop. or.us/calendar. If you have questions about this matter or need more information, please contact the Planning Division at (503) 325-8611 or at comdev@co.clatsop. or.us.
CC21-1542
NOTICE OF MEETING The Board of Directors for Clatskanie School District 6J will hold a Board meeting, Monday, November 8, 2021, 6:30 p.m. via Zoom. Please see our website at www.csd.k12. or.us on the main page for
directions to join the meeting. The agenda includes but is not limited to: Superintendent and Principal’s reports, financial report, policy updates and the consent agenda. The public is encouraged to attend.
CC21-1527
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the Clatsop County Planning Commission will hold its regular meeting at 10:00 a.m. on Tuesday, November 9, 2021, via GoTo Meeting to consider the following: 1. Amendments to the Clatsop County Comprehensive Plan, revising Goal 5: Open Spaces, Scenic and Historic Areas, and Natural Resources 2. Ordinance 21-05: Subdivision and Partition Plat Procedural Revisions and County Road Standards Revisions To join the meeting: https://global.gotomeeting.com/join/717331381 You can also dial in using your phone. United States (Toll Free): 1-877-568-4106
United States: +1 (312)757-3129 Access Code: 717-331-381 An agenda will be posted seven days prior to the hearing at: https:// www.co.clatsop.or.us/calendar. Those wishing to provide testimony on public hearings or provide oral communication at the designated time must register in advance by calling 503-3258611 or email comdev@ co.clatsop.or.us. Once registered, you will be notified when it is your opportunity to speak for a three-minute presentation. The public may also submit comments via email to be read to the Planning Commission at the designated time. Please
CC21-1534
NOTICE OF REGULAR MEETING The regular meeting of the Rainier Cemetery District will be held on Monday, November 15, 2021 at 5:00pm at the Rainier Cemetery Office, 24952 Alston
Rd, Rainier, OR. Items on the agenda include but are not limited to: Monthly updates on cemetery operations. Janice Carstensen Board Chairman
send submissions to comdev@co.clatsop.or.us. All documents will be available for inspection by appointment at the Clatsop County Planning Division at 800 Exchange St, Suite 100, during normal business hours (M-F 7:30 a.m.-4 p.m.) at no cost. Paper copies may also be obtained at reasonable cost. The full agenda packet will be posted seven days prior to the hearing at: https://www.co.clatsop. or.us/calendar. If you have questions about this matter or need more information, please contact the Planning Division at (503) 325-8611 or at comdev@co.clatsop. or.us.
Public Notice deadline is Wednesdays by noon. Late submissions may not make it into the paper.
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Friday, November 5, 2021
A7
Smoke impact on Oregon’s grapes and wine industry
Courtesy from OSU
The grape and wine industry contributes $220 billion to the U.S. economy, and wine grapes are the highest value fruit crop in the country, according to WineAmerica, a group that represents the wine industry in Washington, D.C. SEAN NEALON News Guard Guest Article
Oregon State University researchers and a team of West Coast university collaborators will use a $7.65 million grant to study the impact of smoke exposure on grapes. Researchers said the project will provide critical knowledge to grape growers and winery owners severely impacted by widespread wildfire smoke in recent years. Oregon State researchers will work with scientists at Washington State University and the University of California, Davis, on the fouryear project, which is funded by the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s National Institute of Food and Agriculture. “Smoke events are only likely to increase, and last
year made it clear we need to be better prepared,” said Elizabeth Tomasino, associate professor of enology at Oregon State and lead researcher on the grant. “This research will go a long way in providing tools that will allow the grape and wine industries to quickly make decisions that significantly impact their economic livelihoods.” The grape and wine industry contributes $220 billion to the U.S. economy, and wine grapes are the highest value fruit crop in the country, according to WineAmerica, a group that represents the wine industry in Washington, D.C. Wildfires are a significant threat to these industries because persistent exposure to smoke compromises the quality and value of wine grapes and adversely affects
wines. That threat is particularly pronounced on the West Coast of the United States, where California, Oregon and Washington are three of the nation’s top four wineproducing states. An economic analysis of the 2020 wildfires estimated losses up to $3.7 billion, a number that will be felt into 2023 because many wineries have decided to not produce wine from 2020 grapes due to the severity of impacts from wildfires. In the wake of the challenging 2020 vintage, the grape and wine industry on the West Coast want to better understand how smoke density and composition impact grapes, grape vines, wine composition and sensory perception of the wine in a glass. The research team is calling this a “smoke to glass” understanding.
Courtesy from OSU
The researchers have processed more than 600 grape samples and 800 wine samples from Oregon growers and used gas chromatography mass spectrometers to analyze the types and levels of smoke compounds in them.
How the grant will help • Develop new technologies and establish low-cost sensors and sensor networks for real-time risk assessment in the vineyard. • Assess the impact of smoke exposure on the health of grapes and grapevines. • Develop grape coatings to reduce or eliminate uptake of smoke components into grapes. • Optimize a rapid smallbatch fermentation method to predict what a wine impacted by smoke will taste like when fermented on a commercial scale. • Determine sensory quality thresholds of smoke compounds in wine. • Link environmental, chemical and sensory data to create predictive modeling of smoke risk to grape and wine quality.
• Create an integrated outreach component to communicate the research findings and their use and enable industry to benefit from them. • The grant builds on other recent smoke taint research efforts at Oregon State. Last fall, researchers, including Tomasino and other members of the Oregon Wine Research Institute, which is housed at Oregon State, quickly mobilized to process more than 600 grape samples and 800 wine samples from Oregon growers and used gas chromatography mass spectrometers to analyze the types and levels of smoke compounds in them. In June, the Oregon Legislature approved $2.6 million to fund an Oregon State testing lab to assess the impact of wildfire smoke on
wine grapes, orchard fruit and other crops. The work planned with the new grant builds on previous research by the same team made possible by funding from the American Vineyard Foundation, Northwest Center for Small Fruits Research and the USDA’s National Institute of Food and Agriculture. Other Oregon State researchers involved with the new project are: Alec Levin, James Sterns, Yanyun Zhao and James Osborne, all of whom are part of the College of Agricultural Sciences or Oregon State University Extension Service. Sean Nealon is a news editor at Oregon State University’s University Relations and Marketing Department. He may be reached at sean. nealon@oregonstate.edu.
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This fall and winter, season continues to coincide ETERSEN LARKE LLC ETERSEN LARKE LLC Columbia County residents with ongoing concerns reand Oregonians in forested lated to COVID-19, the ODF AA tt tt oo rr nn ee yy ss areas may see smoke from a said. Smoke may worsen number of controlled burns –556-4120 symptoms for people coping (503) 556-4120 (503) known as prescribed burns. with compromised health or Forest landowners use lung function due to COColumbia County’s Premier Premier prescribed fireColumbia to eliminate County’s VID-19. However, thanks to woody fuelsPersonal that build up the wide availability of vacPersonal Injury Attorneys Injury Attorneys on their land fromLLiforest cines that are highly effective icceennse sedd in in OOrreego gonn && W Waash shin ingto gtonn thinning and after timber in preventing severe illness harvests. and death from COVID-19 More than a million acres infections, Oregon Health burned in the Labor Day Authority (OHA) believes it wildfires of 2020 in Oregon, is appropriate at this point in with more than 800,000 more the pandemic to move foracres this year, according to ward with controlled burns the Oregon Department of as regulated by ODF smoke Forestry (ODF). Much of management rules. that was in prime forestlands. The updated smoke ETERSEN LARKE LLC ETERSEN LARKE LLC Landowners have been trying management rules minimize AA tt tt oo rrsmoke nn ee yyfrom ss entering certain to salvage their investments by harvesting whatever populated cities and areas (503) 556-4120 dead or dying trees (503) are large 556-4120 known as Smoke Sensitive enough and not badly burned Receptor Areas (SSRAs) and enough to still be marketable. encourage proactive commuAccidents •Personal Injury Injury •Wrongful Death Accidents •Personal •Wrongful Death In some cases, the harvest nication. volume exceeds the average To protect Oregonians, No Fee Fee Until Until Recovery Recovery annual harvest by No a wide trained professionals, monimargin. This results inOOarreego tor burns to ensure gonn && W W shcontrolled ingto gtonn aash in larger amount of slash or that fires are lit when fire unmarketableFREE felled INITIAL snags danger is low and weather FREE INITIAL CONSULTATION CONSULTATION needing to be burned to clear conditions are favorable for land for replanting and to protecting SSRAs communireduce wildfire risk. ties from smoke, according to This year’s fall burning the ODF.
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The Oregon Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) and partner agencies monitor smoke levels and air quality across the state. DEQ’s Air Quality Index provides current air quality conditions categorized as good, moderate, unhealthy for sensitive groups, unhealthy, very unhealthy and hazardous. Sign up for text or email alerts about air pollution. View current air quality conditions online or by searching for OregonAir on your smart phone. ODF has developed a Statewide Communication Framework for helping Oregonians: • Understand why we burn • Health risks of smoke • Ways to avoid smoke • Where burning is taking place each day • Where smoke is impacting communities
To protect Oregonians, trained professionals, monitor controlled burns to ensure that fires are lit when fire danger is low and weather conditions are favorable for protecting communities from smoke.
This communication plan is updated annually, distributed to partners and is posted to the ODF website here: https://www.oregon. gov/odf/board/Documents/ smac/20211026-statewidesmoke-communicationsframework.pdf. In addition to the Statewide Communication Framework, ODF and DEQ recommend communities that are SSRAs and have experienced repeated smoke incidents and/or intrusions in the
past collaboratively develop a community response plan and program. DEQ received special legislative funding to assist with the development and implementation of community response plans. DEQ, with support from the agency’s partners, is seeking proposals from local governments to develop comprehensive community response plans for smoke. DEQ will award approximately $300,000 for community response plan develop-
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ment and the identification of potential mitigation strategies that could be deployed to protect the public and most vulnerable from prescribed fire smoke. Projects must be conducted within the timeframe of Jan. 1, 2022 through March 30, 2023. DEQ expects to award multiple contracts and will consider grant requests up to $40,000. For grant requirements and additional information, please review the Smoke Management
- Community Response Plan Development Projects Request for Proposals. For more information, visit: • ODF - https://www. oregon.gov/odf/Fire/pages/ Burn.aspx • DEQ - https://www. oregon.gov/deq/aq/Pages/ Burning.aspx • OHA COVID-19 website - https://govstatus.egov. com/OR-OHA-COVID-19
HIDDEN FIGURES OF OUR OWN
COLUMBIA COUNTY FRIENDS OF NRA 2021 EVENT A Fun Evening with Games, Auctions, and Raffles Raising Money for the Shooting Sports! Single Tickets: $50, Couples: $100, Tables: $400 Tickets May be Purchased Online at www.friendsofnra.org/eventtickets/Events
Join the Columbia County Museum Association and St. Helens resident Kathleen Ward to learn about some of the hidden figures in our own community, including Kathleen's mother who purchased and successfully ran the St. Helens Sentinel-Mist newspaper during the Great Depression.
7PM November 4, 2021 Columbia Center Auditorium in St. Helens In person and broadcast on Zoom
SATURDAY, Nov 6th, 2021 5:00 PM
Clatskanie American Legion, 930 NE 5th St. Clatskanie, OR. 97016 For questions CONTACT: Robert Keyser Phone:(360)957-4160 Email: cbs@Clatskanie.com
@FriendsofNRAHQ
@FriendsofNRA
@FriendsofNRA Columbia County’s trusted local news source
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Friday, November 5, 2021
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APPLY TODAY COVID
Small Business and Non-Profit
GRANTS
New money from Columbia County Brought to you by: Columbia County & CET
Apply here today: smallbizhub.columbiacountyoregon.com “COVID Small business & Non-Profit Grants”
Act Now! Deadline November 26 • CARES Act (PPP & EIDL) recipients ARE ELIGIBLE • Previous Non-Profit grant recipients ARE ELIGIBLE • Apply at: smallbizhub.columbiacountyoregon.com