Local businesses restricted again Serving the Lower Columbia Region since 1891
violation is a Class C misdemeanor, which can carry a fine of up to $1,250 and 30 days in jail. “We have not previously chosen to engage law enforcement, but at this point in time unfortunately we have no other choice,” she said.
MONIQUE MERRILL chronicle2@countrymedia.net
Local businesses are again under restrictions following Gov. Kate Brown’s announcement of a two-week freeze across the state to control the spread of COVID-19. On Wednesday, Nov. 18, the state entered a two-week freeze on social gatherings and certain business operations to curb the spread of the disease. The freeze is intended to reduce transmission of the virus and prevent more people from needing hospital services, which are at or nearing capacity in metropolitan areas, Brown said. “This isn’t just about COVID-19 patients,” Brown said. “The next time you need urgent care, the last thing you want to hear is the ambulance has nowhere to go.” What it means The key differences between this freeze and the stay-at-home order issued in March are that parks and playgrounds will remain open, personal services (like physical therapy and medical spas) will remain open under strict guidelines and schools that continue to meet the metrics required to open will be allowed to stay open. Businesses • Work-from-home to the greatest extent possible • Restaurants and bars are
Reaction
Kelli Nicholson / The Chief
Colvins Pub & Grill in Clatskanie is again restricted to takeout and delivery only under the Oregon freeze.
delivery and take-out only • Grocery stores and pharmacies are limited to 75% capacity and should encourage curbside pick up • Retail stores and malls (both indoor and outdoor) are limited to 75% capacity and should encourage curbside pick up Social gatherings • Limited to no more than six people total, from no more than two households (indoor and outdoor gatherings)
• Faith-based organizations are limited to 25 people indoors or 50 people outdoors • No indoor visitation in longterm care facilities Must close • Gyms and fitness centers • Indoor recreation facilities, museums, indoor and outdoor entertainment activities • Sports courts, indoor and outdoor pools, gardens • Aquariums, zoos, venues that host or facilitate indoor or
outdoor events The two-week period includes Thanksgiving, and people are asked to modify their Thanksgiving plans to follow the new restrictions, which permit gatherings of only six people from two households total, Brown said. In a departure from earlier restrictions, Brown said she has instructed the Oregon State Police to collaborate with local law police departments to enforce the gathering limitations. She said it is up to the officers’ discretion, but a
Jon Martin, owner of both the Clatskanie and St. Helens Anytime Fitness locations, said he was disappointed to hear of the shutdown, but not surprised. The two-week freeze requires gyms to close completely, much like the earlier restrictions. “We were hoping it did not have to come to this, but we are understanding and supportive of this decision,” Martin said. Since the last shutdown, the clubs have had about a 30% decrease in both usage and revenue, he said. During the first forced closure, the Paycheck Protection Program helped keep employees working and landlords were able to provide rent relief, this time it’s less certain what relief will be available. “The clubs will survive the next two weeks but a prolonged shutdown without government intervention will be difficult for us,” Martin said. Martin froze members bills during the first closure, but will
Revenue forecast shows encouragement According to Brown, wildfires that burned over 4,000 homes and structures in communities across Oregon in September have caused the state to face significant costs in the work to remove debris and rebuild wildfire-impacted communities. Brown said Oregon cannot recover from the fires alone and that the state will need substantial federal support.
JEREMY C. RUARK jruark@countrymedia.net
While the COVID-19 pandemic has caused deep economic impacts across the state, the latest Oregon Revenue Forecast is suggesting an improving outlook. “Corporate excise tax collections, lottery sales and taxes on investment forms of income have shown the strongest recoveries, according to the Oregon Revenue Forecast executive summary. “While those sources stand out, all major forms of revenue have bounced back, including laborrelated income taxes.” Gov. Kate Brown said the forecast projects relatively stable state revenues. “While this provides some sense of relief in uncertain times, we know that the sacrifices Oregon’s businesses are making right now to prevent the rapid community spread of COVID-19 will not be reflected until the next revenue forecast is released in January,” Brown said. “We continue to face uncertainty about Oregon’s economy moving forward.”
Brown added Oregon—like so many other states across the country—needs another round of federal stimulus money. “This is a worldwide public health crisis, and it demands a coordinated, national response,” she said. “And we simply cannot wait until Congress convenes in January. Our workers who are facing unemployment and the discontinuation of federal benefits
programs at the end of the year— and employers who have had to close businesses for the betterment of public health—need help. And they need it right now.” Brown said she is calling on Congress to put aside their partisan differences and deliver on a coronavirus relief package, including another round of Federal Pandemic Unemployment Compensation and an extension of the Pandemic
Unemployment Assistance program and the Pandemic Emergency Unemployment Compensation program. “There is no time to waste,” Brown said. “We urgently need congressional action to provide direct help to local governments, businesses, and families so that we can all continue to provide critical services to Oregonians during this crisis.”
“I remain committed to exploring additional state-level solutions to assist Oregonians and Oregon’s businesses, especially those that have been hard hit by the pandemic, including the hospitality industry, small businesses, and women, Black, Indigenous, People
Just in time: Eagles donate 386 pounds of food JEREMY C. RUARK jruark@countrymedia.net
The local Eagles have wrapped up a community food drive collecting 386 pounds of donations that have been delivered to HOPE of Rainier, the local food bank. The Chief checked in with
the food pantry’s director Kelly Miller to find out the significance of the donation. The Chief: What does this donation mean to the food pantry’s efforts to help those in need?
Kelly Miller: This donation means everything to our clients and to HOPE’s efforts in helping our families not go hungry. Especially when so many families are hurting financially. The Chief: Right now, what are the most sought-after food items that can be donated to the local food pantry? Miller: HOPE of Rainier is seeking the following items shelf-stable milk, peanut butter, chili, canned vegetables and fruit, tuna and canned chicken, as well as items to go into our Holiday Christmas food boxes such as pie filling, cranberries, olives, sugar, flour, yams, gravy packets, canned milk and chicken broth. The Chief: Due to the stateordered freeze, how are you accepting the food donations, or, are you only taking monetary donations?
This is a portion of the food items for HOPE of Rainer donated by the Eagles.
Miller: Due to the current state orders, we are still accepting donations, but ask every donor to wear masks upon arrival. If this is not feasible for any reason, you may donate monetarily directly to the food pantry by mailing a check to PO Box 448, Rainier, OR 97048, or you may also donate through our website at www. hopeofrainier.net.
Courtesy photo
The Chief: How many clients is HOPE of Rainier currently assisting and specifically who is seeking the food assistance now? Is that up or down compared to this time last year, how much?
about 15%. We are extremely grateful to all the community donors who think of us at HOPE of Rainier - please know that each and every one of you are greatly appreciated.
Miller: Currently we are serving roughly 110 families a month, totaling an average of 300 people. These numbers are up from last year by
The HOPE of Rainier Food Pantry is located at 404 E. A Street in Rainier and can be reached at 503-556-0701.
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Migration: Who’s coming, who’s going?
ties supply many of OSU’s students and that is reflected in the in-migration data; Washington, Clackamas, and Multnomah were all major sources of migrants. Migration from Benton County was more typical; most people moved to nearby counties and metro areas. Adjacent Linn County was the top destination by a wide margin. About 1,760 people moved there in an average year. Nearly 9,400 people in total moved from Benton County annually from 2014 through 2018.
ERIK KNODER Chief Guest Article
Fewer people seemed to move to Northwest Oregon in 2019 compared with one year before. Population estimates from Portland State University indicate net in-migration of about 2,177 people to our region in 2019. This was down from 2,652 in 2018, and it mirrors the drop in net in migration that happened statewide. However, people are still moving in and out of Northwest Oregon. Where are these people are coming from and where are they going? The U.S. Census Bureau provides some answers for the years that Northwest Oregon was recovering from the Great Recession.
Photo courtesy of Metro Creative Connections
Columbia County’s estimated annual in-migration from 2014 through 2018 was about 4,645. About 46% came from outside of Oregon.
Columbia County Migration Columbia County’s estimated annual in-migration from 2014 through 2018 was about 4,645. About 46% came from outside of Oregon. Washington and Multnomah counties each supplied more immigrants than any other single place. This is not surprising considering the large number of Columbia County residents who commute to jobs in those two counties. Cowlitz and Clark counties in Washington are across the Columbia River and are part of Columbia County’s commute shed and important sources of migrants. Parts of Columbia County function as bedroom communities for the metro job market. Metro workers move to Columbia County to find affordable homes and more relaxed, small-town lifestyles. The distribution of people leaving Columbia County was dominated by people moving to surrounding counties. Clatsop, Multnomah, and Cowlitz counties were top destinations. Clatsop County Migration About 3,840 people per year moved into Clatsop County from 2014 through 2018. Roughly 54% of these people came from outside of Oregon, which is not too surprising considering Astoria’s appeal as a retirement destination. But most of the largest source counties were in nearby metro counties or in neighboring Washington State. Columbia and Washington counties were the top sources for people moving into Clatsop County. Nearby counties were popular destinations for people leaving Clatsop County, top destinations were two Portland metro area counties – Washington and Multnomah counties. Roughly two-thirds of people who left Clatsop County also left the state.
Lincoln County Migration
Tillamook County Migration
Lincoln County had about 4,031 in migrants on average per year for the years 2014 through 2018, with 47% coming from out of state. Although Multnomah County was by far the largest single source, Lincoln County had a good variety of in-migration sources. Lincoln County attracted people from up and down the western U.S.: Washington, Texas, and California contributed a significant number of migrants to Lincoln County. About 3,252 people left the county annually from 2014 through 2018. About 35% of the out-migrants moved out of Oregon. Portland and nearby metro areas were common destinations, as were nearby states.
Tillamook County has a smaller population than the other counties in Northwest Oregon, and its migration is correspondingly smaller. Total in-migration was about 1,537 on average per year from 2014 through 2018. About 63% of those Tillamook County immigrants came from other counties within Oregon and 37 percent came from other states or countries. Nearby counties contributed most to the county’s in-migration. Multnomah and Washington counties in Oregon, and nearby Clark County in Washington were the top three sources for migrants. Tillamook County had the highest share of migrants coming from within the state
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out of all the Northwest Oregon counties. The distribution of people leaving Tillamook County was also directed mainly to other Oregon counties; only 30% of people leaving moved out of state. The most popular destination was Clackamas County, but other Portland metro counties and adjacent Clatsop County were popular as well as some out-of-state counties. From 2014 through 2018 an estimated 1,247 people left Tillamook County each year. Benton County Migration As the biggest county in Northwest Oregon, and home to Oregon State University, it is no surprise
that Benton leads in migration. About 12,500 people per year on average moved into the county from 2014 through 2018. Somewhat more surprising to many people may be that Asia was the third-largest single source of immigrants to the county. It would not be a surprise to Oregon State University administrators who know that 3,461 foreign students were enrolled in fall of 2019, with 1,390 of them from mainland China. About 800 people per year sacrificed their loyalty to the University of Oregon Ducks and moved from Lane County to their rival’s turf – home of the Beavers (Go Beavs!). Portland metro coun
A Little Salt Migration estimates at the county level should be taken with a grain of salt. For many county-to-county estimates the margin of error is slightly larger than the estimate. This can lead to some questionable estimates, especially for the out-ofstate counties. It would be quite surprising if 272 people moved every year from Lincoln County to DeKalb County, Missouri as the estimates report. It is more probable that a group or family moved one year and they all got included in the sample, and skewed the results, especially since the margin of error on this particular estimate is 282. Still, the results generally show that adjacent counties and nearby metro areas are most important when examining migration patterns. One clear value of the migration data is that it serves as a reminder of how mobile our society is. And more specifically, how mobile our workforce is. See more the migration graphs for Clatsop, Benton, Lincoln and Tillamook Counties with this story at thechiefnews.com. Erik Knoder is a regional economist with the Oregon Employment Department. He may be reached at 541351-5595.
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Friday, November 20, 2020
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•I n T he C ounty • • Gift of Oregon campaign launched STAFF REPORT chiefnews@countrymedia.net
Photo courtesy of Metro Creative Connections
The $55 million in Coronavirus Relief Funds will be allocated to counties, with each county receiving a base of $500,000 plus a per capita allocation of the remainder of the funds.
$55 million for business relief STAFF REPORT chiefnews@countrymedia.net
Columbia county businesses struggling through the pandemic may now qualify for $55 million in additional state financial support. Gov. Kate Brown said the state will commit the funds to be allocated to counties to distribute to businesses that have been financially impacted, with a priority for the hospitality industry, businesses impacted by the freeze, small businesses, and women, Black, Indigenous, People of Color, and Tribalowned businesses. “Our iconic main street businesses have sacrificed too much already in this
pandemic,” Brown said. “While we have invested over $100 million in Oregon businesses so far, we must find additional resources to deploy quickly to help businesses that are suffering, particularly our small businesses and those owned by Black, Indigenous, Latino, Latina, Latinx, Asian, Pacific Islander, Native American, and Tribal members. I know that this is not enough. I remain committed to fighting for additional resources at the federal level, including a reauthorization of the important features of the CARES Act, like the Payroll Protection Program and an extension of unemployment insurance benefits.” The $55 million in Coro-
navirus Relief Funds will be allocated to counties, with each county receiving a base of $500,000 plus a per capita allocation of the remainder of the funds. The counties will be responsible for deciding how businesses apply to receive funds and communicating the application process to businesses. The Governor’s Office anticipates that funds will be distributed to counties within the next several weeks. Businesses who are interested in applying should contact their county for more information. Follow daily pandemic updates at thechiefnews.com with i-depth reports in the Friday print editions of The Chief.
Share the Warmth campaign
A statewide effort could help strengthen Columbia County’s ongoing Shop Local efforts. Gov. Kate Brown has announced the launch of the “Give the Gift of Oregon” campaign as part of a comprehensive effort to support local businesses. Shopping local is more important than ever due to the significant economic hardships that COVID-19 has created for Oregon businesses across the state, Brown said in a release. Oregonians do their part individually to contain the spread of the virus, businesses are implementing necessary health and safety measures to protect customers and employees so they can get back to business and stay open. “Oregon’s businesses are the backbone of our communities and our economy, and I am encouraging all Oregonians to shop locally this holiday season,” Brown said. “Strengthening our economy starts here at home. One way Oregonians can help is to spend locally to keep dollars with our homegrown businesses that are run by our neighbors, family, and friends. Many local retailers are offering online, curbside pickup, and ‘take-out’ shopping options, making it easy for Oregonians to shop safely.” Travel Oregon and Business Oregon, the state’s tourism and economic development agencies, are collaborating to carry out this consumer campaign, which runs from Nov. 18 through Dec. 31. The project aims to inspire Oregonians to keep it local and support their favorite businesses as they check off holiday gift lists. There are many ways to shop
Jeremy C. Ruark / The Chief
The project aims to inspire Oregonians to keep it local and support their favorite businesses as they check off holiday gift lists.
locally online, and through safe retail operations. Travel Oregon is also appealing to Oregonians to help offset a nearly 60% reduction in direct travel spending, including shopping and restaurant business, that has affected the entire state. Oregonians will be able to find featured businesses across the state, along with gift ideas on traveloregon. com/giftoforegon. The campaign also highlights the Oregon Wine Board’s The Giving Season efforts, as well as the Built Oregon Marketplace, an online platform that provides consumers with an opportunity to discover products from Oregon makers. “Oregon’s local businesses are the bedrock of the state’s tourism economy – boutique Oregon accommodations, restaurants, coffee shops, breweries, wineries, attractions, tour operators, and retail shops that promote and sell Oregon-made products comprise the fabric of tourism in Oregon,” Travel Oregon CEO Todd Davidson said. “COVID-19 continues to have a devastating impact on these businesses and, now more than ever, they
need support. We encourage Oregonians to shop local this holiday season and to share hope by giving the gift of Oregon.” “The spending power of all of us this season can make a big difference,” Business Oregon Director Chris Cummings said. “We continue to push out as many resources as we can, through funds from the CARES Act and our existing programs, and this promotion is just another way we can help. This also provides a great opportunity to discover incredible local products throughout Oregon.” There are many “buy local” campaigns happening throughout Oregon, and this statewide promotion will highlight many of these during the season on social media with the #GivetheGiftofOregon hashtag. Oregonians are encouraged to share their support on social media by sharing their purchases or favorite local businesses and using the hashtag. Oregon businesses and communities can learn more about participating in the campaign by visiting Travel Oregon’s website: industry.traveloregon.com.
Photo courtesy of Metro Creative Connections
Share the Warmth is an annual tradition that has benefited local neighborhoods through donations of coats, blankets, and other items for nearly two decades.
Donations encouraged Just in time for winter, real estate brokers in Clatskanie and throughout Oregon and Southwest Washington are gearing up for Windermere Real Estate’s annual Share the Warmth campaign. Now through Dec. 21, Windermere brokers are hosting a virtual fundraiser to help local charities purchase winter necessities for community members in need. In the Clatskanie area, the donations will benefit the Community Action Team. Share the Warmth is an annual tradition that has benefited local neighborhoods through donations of coats, blankets, and other items for nearly two decades. Though the COVID-19 pandemic and recent wildfires have restricted physical collec-
tion of donations, this new virtual adaptation is needed now more than ever. To make a donation to the Community Action Team, visit the Share the Warmth website at www. helpsharethewarmth.com to view the list of all participating Windermere offices and their local beneficiaries. “Vulnerable people in our communities continue to be severely impacted by the pandemic and recent wildfires. Helping to ensure our neighbors have the necessities they need to stay warm this winter is just one way we can step up and help,” Windermere Services Company in Oregon and SW Washington President Scott Mitchelson said. “Though the campaign looks different this year, we know that our communities will continue to come together to take care of each other in times of crisis.”
About Windermere Real Estate Windermere Real Estate is the largest regional real estate company in the Western U.S. with over 300 offices and 6,500 agents serving communities in Arizona, California, Colorado, Hawaii, Idaho, Montana, Nevada, Oregon, Utah, Washington, and Mexico. Last year, Windermere closed 77,000 home sales for more than $36.7 billion in dollar volume. The Windermere family has a heritage of serving its neighbors via the Windermere Foundation which funds services for low-income and homeless families. Since 1989, the Windermere Foundation has contributed more than $42 million towards improving lives in the communities where they live and work. For more information, visit windermere. com.
Pacific Northwest Martial Arts Academy Homeless: Cold Weather Drive All Proceeds Directly Benefit Property & Casualty Services Your Local Independent Insurance Agency
503-397-0714 Call us for ALL of your insurance needs! Auto • SR-22’s • Home Renters • Business Trucking • Bonds Worker’s Comp
Drop off donations Saturday, November 21st from 9:30-noon at “The Olde School” John Gumm 251 St. Helens Street For more information phone: 503-369-0657 www.pnwmaa.com Facebook: Pacific Northwest Martial Arts Academy
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•V oices
In support of rezoning The Columbia County Economic Team (CCET) board of directors unanimously supports the Port of Columbia County’s application for rezoning 837 acres at Port Westward (PW) and urges the Columbia County Board of Commissioners (BOC) to approve rezoning from “Primary Agricultural” to “Resource Industrial Planned Development.” The application process has been long and thorough. It is now down to one issue: Land Use Compatibility. Legally, the BOC must consider only that issue, regardless of any distracting arguments offered by outside parties which
REVENUE From Page A1 of Color, and Tribal-owned and operated businesses,” Brown said. “I also remain committed to making prudent financial decisions and to position our state to manage unforeseen economic challenges that may come our way.” Reaction Oregon House Speaker Tina Kotek is calling for Brown to declare a catastrophic disaster and convene a special session. “The COVID-19 pandemic is raging like never before in Oregon,” Kotek said. “Our economic recovery is fully dependent on getting this virus under control. As the state’s budget situation has stabilized and since Congress is unlikely to pass another relief package this year, I urge the governor to declare a catastrophic disaster, so the legislature can convene a remote special session in December.” Kotek said a portion of the state’s reserves should be used as soon as possible to help struggling Oregonians and small businesses through the winter months. She is suggesting that the state spend $100 million to keep Oregonians housed and stabilize the rental market as the pandemic continues into 2021. House Republican Leader Christine Drazan said the revenue forecast shows that the state economy is stable. “But this is not a reflection of reality for most Oregonians who have been impacted by these shutdowns,” Drazan said. “The most recent ‘freeze’ will hurt Oregonians and business owners, and make an already tenuous recovery even harder for families. Now more than ever we must protect jobs, support business growth, manage our reserves and control spending to ensure a longterm recovery for all of Oregon.” Rainier Mayor Jerry Cole said the revenue forecast is encouraging. “The anticipation of a positive recovery is great news for the City of Rainier, it’s business and citizens,” Cole said. “Oregonians are strong and I have no doubts in a positive outcome as we move forward.” Rainier City Administrator Scott Jorgensen said he is hopeful that the next economic recovery is driven by pent-up consumer demand for products and services. “It’s important that our policymakers be mindful that small businesses and
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have repeatedly challenged, unsuccessfully, this application. The only remaining issue is compatibility with neighboring agriculture. It has been demonstrated that the rezone is compatible: • The port worked with interested parties and signed agricultural leases on the land. • The port implemented plans for large agricultural buffers around future industries. • The original agricultural opponent, an adjacent farmer, has dropped his opposition and is one of the port’s agricultural lessees. • Limitations on the type of industries to be located on the property have been approved.
CCET has a uniquely relevant perspective. In the past four months alone, our county has been eliminated from three projects because we didn’t have this land available. These were multi-hundred-million-dollar agricultural/food processing investments, representing over 200 jobs. These lost projects would have been not only compatible, but completely complementary. The PW rezoning proposal has met all the tests. It will be compatible with neighboring agriculture. PW re-zoning will bring badly needed family-wage jobs and revenue for our public service districts.
workers are able to make it through this time until the public health crisis is at a point of reasonable containment, he said. “Businesses are adapting the best they can to the changing conditions and circumstances. Government agencies, including the City of Rainier, have also had to make adjustments in how staff interacts with the public. But we will get through this together.” The following is the Executive Summary of the Oregon Revenue Forecast prepared by the Oregon Department of Administrative Services.
Fund revenue collections have been surprisingly healthy since the recession began. Total spending and income have been propped by the first round of federal fiscal aid. Also, the fact that high-income households have been relatively spared so far has supported tax collections. Corporate excise tax collections, lottery sales and taxes on investment forms of income have shown the strongest recoveries. While those sources stand out, all major forms of revenue have bounced back, including labor-related income taxes. In fact, given the extraordinary growth, a personal income tax kicker for the current biennium is not out of the question, although it would take a big April 2021 tax season to get there. Oregon’s budget process for the next biennium is getting started next month with the release of the Governor’s Recommended Budget. Oregon’s primary revenue sources are expected to grow by a 5% during the 2021-23 budget period. The losses of jobs and business income due to the recession have yet to completely flow through to tax collections. Such growth is quite modest from an historical perspective, and not sufficient to keep up with the rising cost of providing public services. Should the baseline outlook come to pass, state resources will have remained roughly unchanged for three budget periods, while Oregon’s population and prices will have continued to grow. It is not unheard of for Oregon’s tax revenues to remain flat for several years. The 1991 recession and recovery provides the most recent example. That said, the typical recession in Oregon has brought with it a much larger swing in revenue collections. Significant risk to the revenue outlook remains. While the revenue outlook is uncertain, Oregon is in a better position than in the past to manage this risk. Encouragingly, Oregon has saved a larger amount of reserve funds than ever before. Automatic deposits into Oregon’s Rainy Day Fund and Education Stability Fund throughout the long expansion have added up. Oregon’s budget writers have never had access to significant reserve funds during past recessions. Although today’s reserves will not cover all of the likely shortfall caused by a recession, they are large enough to ease much of the pain.
Executive Summary While the economic recovery continues, the virus remains in control. Expectations were already that growth would slow noticeably over the colder, wetter months ahead. The latest surge in COVID cases all but ensures it. Businesses and consumers are likely to pull back out of fear of the virus, and more restrictive public health policies are being implemented such that the health care system does not breach capacity. When the weak labor market and spreading virus is combined with months of federal inaction regarding both the pandemic and the economy, it brings the recovery to its most challenging point yet. Even so, expectations remain that the economic expansion will endure. The recovery will be faster overall than in past severe recessions. This is due to a key assumption regarding a widely available medical treatment by next fall. After that, economic growth should accelerate. Schools will reopen, workers will return to the office in greater numbers, and travel and tourism will pick up. With the end of the pandemic likely in sight, the key macroeconomic risk remains minimizing the amount of permanent damage done the economy in the meantime. As such, additional federal aid to support small businesses and the laid off workers who face dim job prospects until the pandemic is over will ensure the recovery is faster, and disparities do not widen. Oregon’s economy is expected to return to health by mid-2023. Oregon’s primary revenue sources have tracked very closely with expectations since the previous forecast was released. Even so, a considerable amount of uncertainty remains due to the virus and government policy responses. Despite the uncertainty, General
Robert Blumberg St. Helens
Read the full Oregon Revenue Forecast with this story at thechiefnews.com.
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A lethal dose of unaccountability ERIC FRUITS Chief Guest Column
Oregon voters recently approved a ballot measure that decriminalizes possession of small amounts of “hard” drugs, including heroin, cocaine, LSD and methamphetamine. Supporters see the measure as a big step toward ending the failed 50-year “War on Drugs.” Opponents fear the measure will lead to widespread and rampant drug abuse and turn the state into a destination for narco-tourism. While drug decriminalization made news headlines, the media missed the fact that Measure 110 is a head-on attack on our democratic institutions. The measure creates a new bureaucratic agency to be known as the “Oversight and Accountability Council.” Despite its name, the council has neither accountability nor oversight. The council is appointed by an unelected bureaucrat, answers to no one, and is guaranteed funding outside the legislative budget process. In other words, with Measure 110, Oregon voters just created an agency that doesn’t have to answer to voters or elected officials. The Oversight and Accountability Council awards grants to government agencies and community-based nonprofits who will create “Addiction Recovery Centers.” These centers will address the acute and ongoing needs of drug users, provide “intensive” case management, and link drug users to care. All of these services are
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to be provided free-of-charge to drug users. Put simply, Measure 110 asserts a right to free health care for those with substance abuse issues. The council also awards grants to government agencies and nonprofits to provide housing and peer support to people with substance use disorder. Not only does the council award the grants, but it also writes the rules governing the grants, establishes the requirements for the Addiction Recovery Centers, and oversees their implementation. This Oversight and Accountability Council has enormous authority and will be handling at least $57 million a year, in addition to an undefined amount related to state savings from reduced arrests and convictions. The 17-member council will be “established” by the director of the Oregon Health Authority, an unelected agency head appointed by the governor. Each member serves a four-year term. Measure 110 does not specify any conditions under which a council member can be removed and provides no process for removing a member. While the governor can be voted out and the Oregon Health Authority director can be fired, Oversight and Accountability Council members face no risk of removal. In this way the council is accountable to no one. Funding for the Oversight and Accountability Council and its grants will come from the state’s marijuana tax. The measure specifies that this will be at least $57
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million the first year that the measure is in effect, 2021. The measure also provides for yearly increases in line with inflation or increases in marijuana tax revenues, whichever is larger. With a dedicated and guaranteed source of funding, Measure 110 bypasses the legislative budget process. While schools, universities, police, and transportation must go to the legislature for most of their funding, the Oversight and Accountability Council sits comfortably on a steadily increasing revenue stream. Measure 110 won by a wide margin, because the headlines promised it would decriminalize drug possession. With no organized opposition and press that cheered it on, the nefarious details of the measure never got their own headlines. As a result, Oregon voters approved the creation of a huge new bureaucracy that is unaccountable to voters and elected officials and disconnected from the same budget pressures faced by nearly every other state agency. The Washington Post tells us “democracy dies in darkness.” It also dies from voter approval of misleading ballot measures. Eric Fruits, Ph.D. is Vice President of Research at Cascade Policy Institute, Oregon’s free market public policy research organization. He served on the City Club of Portland’s research committee on substance use disorder in Oregon. He can be reached at eric@cascadepolicy.org.
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In-person classes still distant MONIQUE MERRILL chronicle2@countrymedia.net
It might be a while before in-person instruction can resume at county schools. Even with loosened metrics required to bring back inperson learning, schools in Columbia County are unable to reopen due to a spike of COVID-19 cases in the county. Clatskanie Elementary School was gearing up to resume in-person classes for kindergarten to third grade students, but delayed bringing those students back to the building when the statewide two-week freeze was announced on Friday, Nov. 13. In a statement posted on the school’s Facebook, Superintendent Cathy Hurowitz said the school would respect the freeze and revisit the decision on Dec. 2, when the two-week period is up. “We are very saddened by this change in course,” Hurowitz wrote. “We know that students and families have been looking forward to returning to school soon. We will continue to plan for this return and encourage everyone to follow the governor’s guidance so that we can facilitate this return as soon as it is allowable.” The decision to postpone in-person learning was announced the Friday before classes were to resume on Monday, Nov. 16. Clatskanie Elemen-
tary School Principal Kara Burghardt said the decision was not made lightly, and that staff had been working hard to prepare to reopen the building. “They have put hours of thinking and planning into making the students return safe and secure. They also put in a full day’s work everyday planning lessons with engaging activities and connecting with students and their families,” Burghardt said. “When we are given the go-ahead to open, we will. Unfortunately, that was taken out of our hands.” While Rainier School District never announced a specific date to bring back students for in-person learning, Superintendent Joseph Hattrick released a letter on Nov. 15 informing families that efforts to bring students back had been delayed as well. He said that the district had immediately begun planning to bring students back to school when the state announced its revised metrics needed for in-person learning. Not long after the announcement about revised metrics was made, however, the case rates in the county began to climb, he said. “Since the announcement on Oct. 30, Columbia County has seen a steady increase in rates impacting our county and we have also seen our highest one-day case rate all year,” Hattrick said. There were 11 new
to make it our goal to get students on campus as soon as we can,” Hattrick said. “In the meantime, some small groups of students may be invited to participate in limited in-person instruction based on academic need.” Scappoose and St. Helens school districts released a joint statement informing families that decisions about reopening for in-person classes will be delayed until Jan. 4. Both districts bring in a substantial number of staff from outside counties and the districts must factor in the other counties’ metrics into their reopening plans. The metrics Photo courtesy of Metro Creative Connections
The COVID-19 pandemic continues to force delay of in-person instruction at local schools.
daily cases reported on Saturday, Nov. 14— the highest new daily count reported in the county since the pandemic began. The previous daily record was eight. “Our beliefs about the importance of Rainier students learning on campus has not changed. We will finalize the planning for hybrid and limited in-person instruction this week, but we will continue to provide comprehensive distance learning while we monitor COVID-19 case rates in our county,” he said. “Rather than to predict when we will be able to provide hybrid instruction, we will
continue to communicate with families, staff and our community and as soon we have a window to reopen.” The delay in reopening comes from the district no longer meeting the metrics required by the Department of Education to transition to hybrid learning, not the state-issued freeze, Hattrick said. The freeze does not apply to schools, which are permitted to continue operating as long as they meet the metrics. “I know the delay of hybrid instruction may come as disappointing news but I assure you, we will continue
In order to transition to hybrid and on-site learning for elementary schools, counties must meet certain metrics. For counties with populations greater than 30,000 residents, there must be between 50 to 100 new cases reported per 100,000 people over a 14-day period, and a test positivity rate of between 5% to 8%. To transition to on-site or hybrid learning for all schools, large counties must report less than 50 new cases per 100,000 people in a 14day period and a test positivity rate of less than 5%. Columbia County has just over 50,000 residents, so there must be fewer than about 54 new cases reported over 14 days.
Local public health officials are advised to work with school districts on reopening plans to make sure the metrics are met. Districts that bring in more than 10% of students or staff from multiple counties must consider the case rate and test positivity rate of those counties, which is why Clatskanie was further along in reopening plans than Scappoose and St. Helens which both draw more people from Multnomah and Washington counties. In the 14-day period from Oct. 25 to Nov. 7, the county reported 52 new cases which gave it a case rate of 98.6 per 100,000 residents and reported a test positivity rate of 5.1%. By contrast, the 14-day period from Nov. 1 to Nov. 14 saw a spike of cases in the county, with 73 new cases reported. The spike gave the county a case rate of 138.4 per 100,000 people and a test positivity rate of 8.9%. The metrics continue to be watched by the school districts and local health officials. To keep case rates down, officials and district leaders urge residents to limit social gatherings, keep physical distance, wear masks and wash their hands. Follow the latest developments about the in-class instruction at thechiefnews. com and in the Friday print editions of The Chief.
County operations by appointment only STAFF REPORT chiefnews@countrymedia.net
Columbia County facilities will be closed to the public, except for by appointment, under the governor’s two-week freeze to slow the spread of COVID-19. There was a four-week period from Oct. 26 to Nov. 16 when the courthouse annex was open to the public without appointments for tax and elections business, but county facilities will revert back to staying closed to the public.
Department heads have been instructed to have as many employees work from home as possible to reduce the spread of COVID-19. “We’re doing everything we can to keep employees safe and the public safe but still serve our citizens,” said Margaret Marguder, Columbia County commissioner. Many of the county’s forms are available online, and in-person needs can be arranged by appointment, she said. Under the executive order regarding the freeze, businesses are restricted from working in offices unless
absolutely necessary. The executive order does not apply to offices and buildings owned or occupied by local governments. The Columbia County Board of Commissioners met Tuesday to discuss what the plan would be if the state-issued two-week freeze affected local governments as well. At that time the executive order regarding the freeze had not been released, but the commissioners and department heads agreed that they were already operating as remotely as possible and the freeze would not significantly change protocol.
Jeremy C. Ruark / The Chief
The Columbia County Courthouse is located at 230 Strand Street in St. Helens. For services information, call 888-397-7210.
Oregon, Apple settle ‘throttling’ lawsuit STAFF REPORT chiefnews@countrymedia.net
Oregon has reached a $113 million settlement with Apple, Inc over “throttling.” Attorney General Rosenblum, along with a coalition of over 30 other attorneys general, announced the settlement Wednesday, Nov. 18, regarding Apple’s 2016 decision to intentionally slow down the performance of older phones to encourage customers to buy newer models or fresh batteries, a
practice known as “throttling.” The lawsuit alleges Apple discovered battery issues were leading to unexpected shutdowns in iPhones. Instead of disclosing these issues or replacing batteries, Apple concealed the issues from consumers. In an effort to keep the phones from unexpectedly shutting down, Apple released a software update in December 2016
that reduced iPhone performance. The attorneys general allege that Apple’s concealment of the battery issues and decision to throttle the performance of consumers’ iPhones led to Apple profiting from selling additional iPhones to consumers whose phone performance Apple had slowed. “An iPhone, like any other smartphone, will slow as it ages, but that does not
allow a business to commit deceptive acts like throttling,” Rosenblum said. “My office will hold tech giants, like Apple, accountable if they purposely deceive or harm their users.” Under the settlement, Apple will pay Oregon $1.756 million. In addition to the monetary payment, Apple also must provide truthful information to consumers about iPhone battery health, perfor-
COVID-19 From Page A1
keep billing as usual during the two weeks unless specifically requested. He said if the closure continues past two weeks he will probably freeze all billing. “Many of our members have already expressed that they are not worried about the next two weeks and are happy to help us out,” Martin said. He said it’s rare for more than five people to work out at the same time in one center, and that the vast majority have followed the safety guidelines. “Exercise is such a great benefit both physically and mentally for our members,” he said. “We will certainly miss them during any shutdown.” Rainier City Hall and library will be closed to the public during the freeze period, City Administrator Scott Jorgensen said. Staff will be present and can be made available by appointment if needed, he said. City buildings and offices in St. Helens, Scappoose, Columbia City and Vernonia remain closed to the public as well. Columbia County
Anytime Fitness Gyms in Clatskanie and St. Helens have been forced to close under the governor’s two-week freeze.
facilities are also closed to the public. Appointments can be arranged. Restaurants are limited to providing takeout only. For Kim Rogers, owner of Colvins in Clatskanie, the news did not come as a surprise. “I saw the numbers going up a couple weeks before she made the decision, so I kind
of saw it coming,” he said. It’s not the first time Rogers and other restaurant owners have had to modify their operations. The first wave of restrictions back in March gave businesses a short time frame to shut their doors to in-person dining. “Since we’ve done it before for a couple of weeks, it’s just a matter of changing
our business model for a few weeks, hopefully,” he said. “If it happens to go on for a few months, we can do that as well.” A big part of Roger’s optimism comes from the shows of support the restaurant has received from the community over the past eight months. “This small town of
Jeremy C. Ruark / The Chief
Clatskanie is amazing. They have rallied around their small businesses to make sure they stay open and they’re able to give the maximum amount of hours as possible to the employees,” he said. “The biggest thing I came away with was the community support.” Take-out has remained a strong option at Colvins,
mance, and power management. Apple must provide this important information in various forms on its website, in update installation notes, and in the iPhone user interface itself. Apple recently also entered into a proposed settlement of class action litigation related to the same conduct, and under that proposed settlement Apple will pay out up to $500 million in consumer restitution. even while in-person dining was permitted, and he hopes it will remain strong. “With this closure being so close to the holidays, we’ll see what happens with Thanksgiving,” he said. The restaurant will offer Thanksgiving dinner options for takeout, he said. “Hopefully we can sell some of that and make it easier for people,” Rogers said. In the meantime, diners can place orders online, over the phone or outside of the restaurant, he said. Plymouth Pub owner Brad Rakes in St. Helens said the restriction was a disappointing turn of events. “It’s disheartening,” he said. “But, we did it before and we can do it again.” With the holidays looming, Rakes is worried about the impact the freeze will have on some of his employees. Prior to the two-week freeze, Rakes had increased staffing to keep up with demand and increase sanitation and cleaning processes. Now, the front of house staff are laid off until the restaurant can open dining up again. “I just hope it’s two weeks,” he said. “Last time it was two months. That’s what worries me.”
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Loyed Allen Rea
March 11, 1936 ~ Nov. 6, 2020
Loyed Allen Rea passed away comfortably surrounded by family at Community Home Health and Hospice in Longview, Washington on Nov. 6, 2020. He was 84. He is survived at home by his wife Erma “EJ” Rea. He was born on March 11, 1936 in Rainier, Oregon to Effie and Buck Rea. He was a lifelong resident of the Rainier/ Longview area. He was the middle son of five children and is survived by a younger brother, Jim Rea of Soldotna, Alaska; and a younger sister, Joan Jones of Newport, Oregon. He was preceded in death by his mother Effie Mosier (Rainier, Oregon); father Buck Rea (Newport, Oregon); brothers Fred Pierce and Kenneth Rea (Rainier, Oregon); sister Arlene Scott (Rainier, Oregon); son Timothy Lee Rea (Rainier, Oregon); and grandson Jesse Rea (Parsons, Kansas). Loyed attended Rainier Union High School and after leaving school he married LaDonna “Beverly” Nelson on Oct. 16, 1954. They had six children and divorced in 1984. He remarried on May 10, 1991 to Erma “EJ” Nehring. In high school he was a standout athlete. He won several All-League and All-State honors in baseball, basketball, and football. His love of athletics carried on after high school where he played on several semi-professional baseball, basketball, and football teams, most notable, the Portland Thunderbirds. His favorite athletic accomplishments were his recruitment by Bud Wilkerson to the University of Oklahoma to play quarterback and win-
ning a National Basketball Championship in the men’s 50 and over league in Fort Lauderdale, Florida with the East Bank Saloon of Portland. A favorite hobby of his was golf. He was a member of the men’s club at Three Rivers Golf Course for many years. He was a 2-time member of the Hole in One Club! He loved to travel all over the country to watch Oregon Ducks Football with his wife EJ. Fall was football season, and a bigger fan you will never find! He was a season ticket holder for nearly 40 years. He especially enjoyed going to bowl games and would always run into a former teammate or friend along the way. He loved going to the stadium early to catch team warm-ups. After his playing days ended, he stayed involved in athletics by coaching each of his five children in some fashion as well as countless other kids within the community. He also coached his grandkids in numerous sports. He loved to stress fundamentals and hard work to young kids starting out. Not only did he give to the youth of the community, he
was also an active member in the Rainier community. He served as Jaycee-Club President, worked on the development of athletic fields, and raised funds for athletic shoes for children who could not afford them. In appreciation of his commitment to the community he was the 2020 Rainier Days Grand Marshall and was honored for that recognition. In his professional life he became a Longshoremen in his mid-twenties. He was a proud member of the International Longshoremen and Warehousemens Union for over 30 years and happy to tell you about it! He was a fixture on the waterfront and made life-long friendships that he was very proud of, up to his final days. He was dedicated to his co-workers as demonstrated by putting his life in jeopardy saving two co-workers in 1985 and 1986. He received two commendations for these acts of valor. He is survived by his wife Erma “EJ” Rea of Longview, Washington; sons, Jerry (Robin) Rea of Parsons, Kansas, Tony (Donna) Rea of St. Helens, Oregon, and John “JJ” (Sandy) Johnson of Tucson, Arizona; daughter Shellie (Dennis) Cross of Columbia City, Oregon; son Casey (Monica) Rea of Rainier, Oregon; stepsons, Greg Beaber of Adna, Washington and Jeff Beaber of Mossyrock, Washington; 15 grandchildren; and six great grandchildren. A celebration of life will be held in the Spring of 2021. In lieu of flowers, the family wishes donations be made to Community Home Health and Hospice in Longview, Washington.
CC20-1333
IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE STATE OF OREGON FOR THE COUNTY OF COLUMBIA PROBATE DEPARTMENT In the Matter of the Estate of RANDOLPH RAY BERGMAN, Deceased. No. 20PB08003 Notice to Interested Persons NOTICE is hereby given that the undersigned has been appointed personal representative of the above estate. All persons having claims against the estate are required to present the same within four months
from this date at the office of VanNatta, Petersen & Anderson, P.O. Box 748, St. Helens, Oregon; and if not so presented, they may be barred. All persons whose rights may be affected by the proceeding may obtain additional information from the records of the Court, the personal representative or the attorneys for the
personal representative. Dated and first published: November 20, 2020. Date of final publication: December 4, 2020. Personal Representative: Lorna Prestwich, PO Box 522, Clatskanie, OR 97016. Attorneys: VanNatta, Petersen & Anderson Attorneys at Law, P.O. Box 748, St. Helens, OR 97051. Telephone: (503) 397-4091.
CC20-1334
CLATSKANIE SCHOOL DISTRICT NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING Date: December 14, 2020, Time: 6:15 PM, Location: Zoom virtual meeting/in person (check our website for in person updates). The zoom link will be available on the district website main page www.csd.k12.or.us The School Board for the Clatskanie School District
(CSD) will conduct a public hearing for the purpose of receiving public comment on the Findings Statement supporting the use of the Design Build Alternative Contracting Method for projects funded by the bond measure which will be on the May 2021 ballot.
CC20-1335
Rainier Cemetery District SPECIAL MEETING NOTICE The regular meeting of the Rainier Cemetery District will be held on Monday, November 23, 2020 at 11:00am at the Rainier Cemetery Office, 24952 Alston Rd, Rainier, OR. Items on the agenda include, but are not limited
to: Price Increases for Services & Possible Year End Specials. ALL SOCIAL DISTANCING RULES IN PLACE AT THE TIME OF THE MEETING WILL BE STRICTLY FOLLOWED. Janice Carstensen, Board Chairman
Following this hearing, CSD intends to request an Exemption Order for the projects pursuant to ORS 279C.335. Copies of the draft Findings Statement are available on the district website (www.csd.k12. or.us) under School Bond Information. CC20-1332
NOTICE OF BOARD MEETING The Rainier School Board will hold its regular board meeting virtually Monday, November 23 at 6:30 p.m. Livestream available on the district website.
Oregon sees job growth improvement STAFF REPORT chiefnews@countrymedia.net
Oregon’s unemployment rate dropped to 6.9% in October from 7.9%, as revised, in September. For the past few months, Oregon’s unemployment rate has closely tracked the national unemployment rate which also fell to 6.9% in October from 7.9% in September. Oregon’s total nonfarm payroll employment rose by 14,200 jobs in October, following a revised gain of 9,300 jobs in September. Over the past four months the rate of job growth has averaged 14,400 per month, following more rapid growth in May and June, when 74,500 jobs were added. Oregon employers added jobs in each of the past six months, and the state has recovered 46 % of the jobs cut in March and April.
Courtesy photo
TheOregonEmploymentDepartmentreports2,008,008employedand137,452unemployedinOctoberinthestate.
Over-the-month job gains in October were largest in construction (+6,100 jobs), professional and business services (+4,300), and leisure and hospital-
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ity (+4,300). Declines were largest in government (-7,400 jobs). Leisure and hospitality continues to be the industry most impacted
by the economic effects of the COVID-19 pandemic. Its employment bounced back substantially in May and June, but job gains have slowed over the past
four months. Employment totaled 162,000 in October, which was down 54,300 jobs, or 25 %, since its peak month of February. Over the past 12 months, two of its component industries cut employment by more than a quarter. Since October 2019 arts, entertainment, and recreation is down by nearly half (-13,000 jobs, or -49 %) and accommodation is down by nearly a third (-8,600 jobs, or -32 %). Most schools in Oregon were impacted by a combination of distance learning and declining enrollment this autumn, which resulted in job cuts at all levels of education. When comparing October 2020 with October 2019, all of education—from grade schools to colleges—have experienced job reductions. Local government education reduced employment to 118,700 in October from 139,900 in October 2019
(-21,200 jobs, or -15%). This industry includes local K-12 schools, community colleges and the Oregon University System. Private education, which includes private grade schools and private universities, cut 7,400 jobs, or 20%, since October 2019. Two major industries expanded since October 2019. Construction surged by 6,100 jobs over the month in October and is up 700 jobs since October 2019, putting it close to its record levels during late 2019 through March 2020. Transportation, warehousing, and utilities added 1,200 jobs in October and grew fast for most of the past few years, adding 5,800 jobs over the past 12 months. The industry benefited from rapid demand growth in online shopping and the resulting expansion of warehousing and distribution.
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Friday, November 20, 2020
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Pandemic impact on local school sports JEREMY C. RUARK jruark@countrymedia.net
Students, families, coaches and the community wait for the resumption of middle and high school sports and other student activities, canceled due to the COVID-19 pandemic. In the following conversation with Clatskanie Middle/High School Athletic Director Ryan Tompkins, and Rainier Jr/Sr High School Principal and Athletic Director Graden Blue, The Chief seeks insight into how the students are coping and what comes next. The Chief: Given the setbacks, increasing COVID-19 cases in Columbia County, what do you see happening with the current conditioning options for the students now and what impact do you see for the upcoming actual competitions in the new year? Ryan Tompkins: Our Season 1 activities are paired to our school instruction model. As long as we offer LII (limited in-person instruction) we plan to continue to offer conditioning/skill-building options. Currently we have 30-40 students a day in our building, on a limited basis, to receive additional support and/or access. As far as competition goes, the OSAA has set Dec. 7 as their deadline to determine what winter sports competition will look like. Until then, we are waiting optimistically. Graden Blue: We will follow the OHA, OSAA and ODE guidelines to prepare for the opportunity to return to standard practices and competitions. By one sport not following the guidelines
puts all sports in jeopardy. No one wants the responsibility of placing those restrictions on theirs or other sports. The fact that we have multiple individuals participating in more than one sport simply means that they need to protect them all. The Chief: From your vantage point and contact with the students, how are they coping with this significant change and not being able to attend regular practices and regular competition with other school teams? Tompkins: I believe the old-adage is true, you don’t truly appreciate something until it’s gone. It has been a difficult eight months for students/adults alike in our district. The limited interactions we have had this fall, have been cherished. The Season 1 activities have been very well attended by students, and there has been nothing but positives that have come out of them. Blue: This has been tough on students, coaches and the community. So the students welcome the opportunity to get together in any form of practice. Social interaction is an integral part of sports, by allowing practice sessions to begin with conditioning and training only has been a big step forward for them. When the time is right it will be expanded for a more encompassing experience. The Chief: What specifically are you advising the coaches in helping guide them to working as best they can through this and how they can help their student athletes deal with the current situation and the unknowns ahead?
The Chief: Feel free to add any other comments you might have.
overall impact in our community as a whole by not having middle/high school sports and other student activities?
Jeremy C. Ruark / The Chief
Team competition at Clatskanie Middle/High School and at Rainier Jr/ Sr. High School has been postponed due to the current pandemic.
Tompkins: From day one, we’ve tried to impress upon the coaches how important their role is through these times. Student engagement is our number one priority: Keeping kids connected to their school community. Aside from the athletic side of things, by checking in with their athletes, encouraging them in their coursework, asking them about their day … coaches have an opportunity to make a real difference. Blue: Coaches naturally touch base with their athletes often and these circumstances are no different. They do check in’s with them so that they will be ready if actual seasons are allowed to happen. Coaches remind their athlete’s that they need to maintain attendance and grades to be ready academically to compete. The Chief: Without the middle/high school regular practices and games and other student activities, what has been the social aspect of not having the students working together, and gaining the learning abilities offered in such settings?
Tompkins: Many things are occurring, just on a very limited basis and in different forms. Our leadership class has created “Virtual Spirit Week” during our traditional “Homecoming Week,” our drama class is doing a Zoom production of “Alice in Wonderland,” we held a virtual “Veteran’s Day Assembly.” All of these are being done to help create collaborative and team working opportunities for students. The hardest part is knowing that we aren’t reaching every student and trying to find opportunities where every student can build social connections. Blue: A good program is always looking for opportunities for team building whether they are doing practices or not. Coaches spend a lot of time outside their regular season connecting with their athletes. Under the current OSSA guidelines they are outside their season, but are using it as a conditioning season of preparation. The Chief: From your insight, what has been the
Tompkins: Athletics play a huge role in keeping our students physically active and helps bring the Clatskanie community together. There has definitely been a void. As a parent of three grade-school children, my wife and I routinely talk about finding ways to get our kids active and out of the house. Athletics has been that activity for our family (and many others) and without it, it’s been a challenge. As for the community, many people are in relative isolation. Athletic events creates an opportunity for people to come together and interact, outside of the grocery store, those opportunities are seemingly few and far between. Athletics (like clubs and the performing arts) also create a pathway for our community to encourage/engage with our students. From grandparents who don’t miss a single second of a basketball game to younger siblings running around emulating the “Varsity Star,” we look forward to the day where we can safely continue in these community events. Blue: Athletics and activities is the venue that brings students and community together, both groups are suffering the loss of not being able to gather. Both groups recognize that the only opportunity for any normalcy to return requires sacrifice and a determination to knock this down. By adhering to the guidelines allows a greater chance for a return to practices and competition as we once knew it.
Tompkins: We recently received a grant from the National Federation of High Schools (NFHS) for two free Pixellot LiveStream cameras. These cameras have been installed in the gym and the football field. When competition returns, all events at those two venues will be automatically be streamed live online at nfhsnetwork. com. Blue: With the adjustment to season schedules we will see a reduction in competitions and the number of weeks in a season. • Season 2 is scheduled to begin Dec. 28 with basketball, wrestling and swimming. Pool may not be available to allow swimming to happen, basketball and wrestling are both considered contact sports and may not happen unless metric’s are lifted. • Season 3 will start Feb. 22 with cross-country, volleyball, soccer, cheer and football. Again football and cheer are considered a contact sport and would require a change in the metrics to allow them to compete or hold normal practices. • Season 4 starts March 19 with track and field, softball and baseball. Student sports fees will not be required until such time as a sport enters into their competitive season. Updates will be made available as new information is received. Music competitions are scheduled to start in April and May. Metrics again could affect this schedule. Follow this developing story at thechiefnews.com and in the Friday print editions of The Chief.
Showcase your business
In our calendar Showcase your business for an entire month in households throughout the county by being a part of this 14-month Calendar. The Calendar will include local photos of our surrounding areas and its activities submitted by locals and will be inserted into The Chronicle, The Chief, and sold separately. Pick a month, and showcase your business! Only 14 spots available, call your sales representative today! COSTS OF ADS:
• Full-page sponsorship banner: $500 2” height x 10.5” wide
• Date listing: $50 each • Date listing: $40 each for 5+ listings • Only one listing per date so act fast!
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DATES:
Space deadline: November 25 Publishing: The Chronicle on December 16 and The Chief on December 18
Contact Amy to advertise: atrull@countrymedia.net or at 503-397-0116
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Attention Columbia County Photographers We are publishing a full-color glossy calendar displaying the beauty of our county, and we want to showcase YOUR photography! Only 14 photos will be chosen. Submit your photo to chronicleclassifieds@countrymedia.net for consideration. If selected, you will receive five free calendars along with recognition on the calendar page.
Deadline to submit your photography is Nov. 27, 2020 Columbia County’s trusted local news source
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Friday, November 20, 2020
CLATSKANIE QUICK CLEAN NOW OPEN Local entrepreneurs Laken Gortler and Carla Hess are pleased to announce their new laundromat, Clatskanie Quick Clean, is now open. Clatskanie Quick Clean is located at 640 East Columbia River Highway in Clatskanie Town Center on the east side of town, right across from the Clatskanie River Inn. It features eight 30-pound machines capable
of three loads, and four 50-pound machines capable of five loads. “These are the most efficient machines out there on the market right now – brand new with all of the latest technology,” Hess said. “I was able to dry two big comforters in half an hour.” The machines are not only coin operated, they can be operated with your Speed Queen card. Speed
Queen is an app you can download makes it easy to pay for the washer or dryer right from your phone. The app will even let you know when your laundry is almost finished. Clatskanie Quick Clean will be open seven days a week, 6 a.m. to 9 p.m. with doors that lock automatically at those times. You’ll also have access to free wi-fi and vending machines while on site.
THE HISTORY OF CLATSKANIE TOWN CENTER Clatskanie Development started in 2002 with the construction of Clatskanie River Inn, a 40-room property. Several years later, Clatskanie Development built the Clatskanie Town Center and have been running it since 2008, with the original tenants being Ixtapa Restaurant, Anytime Fitness, and Discounts & Deals. They were later joined by Mann Mortgage, and in 2016, Clatskanie RV Park was constructed. At the beginning of 2020, Clatskanie Development began building Clatskanie Quick Clean, taking up the last spot at the shopping center. Clatskanie Development partners include Will Kessi, Jason Hudson, Robert Keyser, Randy May, Ken Stansbury, and Eric Dahlgren.
Address: 640 East Columbia River Highway • Phone: 360-431-3922 Columbia County’s trusted local news source