Rainier Jr/Sr High School junior Tyler Borders is preparing for a competitive sport that will take him to Crescent City, California in January. The sport isn’t basketball, soccer or track. It is competitive trapshooting. “There is no other sport like trapshooting,” Tyler said. “You have to treat it like a marathon. It keeps you focus. It is something that I found that I didn’t get in any other sports, like track, baseball and soccer.” Borders is a member of the Rainier Jr./Sr. High School Trapshooting Team that was formed in 2019. Through his overall competitive scoring he has earned a spot on the elite Pacific International Trapshooting 2020 All Stars Team. He found out about the award after arriving home late one day in November. “There were balloons all over the house after my family decorated to surprise me with the announce-
Columbia County Public Health’s free COVID-19 drive-by testing began on Wednesday, Dec, 2, with several vehicles lined along the driveway of St. Helens High School. Members of the Columbia County Emergency Response Team (CERT) directed drivers to the drive-thru testing site located at the front of the high school along Gable Road. Health workers dressed in blue robes, blue gloves and face coverings carefully handed each driver a packet with a nasal swab to be used for the self-administered test. The drivers used the swab for the test and handed it back to the health worker. The health worker carefully placed each swab in single sterile tube which was placed in a biohazard bag and sealed. The bags are collected and sent to a medical lab for testing. Columbia County Health Director Michael Paul said test results would likely be available within three to five days through emails. The results will also be reported to the local health department. “Those being tested will also receive an after-testing guide with instructions of what to do if they test positive or negative and how they should inform other people who they may have had contact with if they do test positive,” he said. Paul said county health is ask-
ment,” he said. “I was super happy to see all the hard work has paid off in what I really want to accomplish this year.” According to the Amateur Trapshooting Association, the sport is a specific form of clay target shooting and involves movement, action, and spit second timing. “It requires the accuracy and skill to repeatedly aim, fire and break the 4 1/4 inch disc which are hurled through the air at a speed of 42 mph, simulating the flight path of a bird fleeing a hunter,” the association’s website reads. Borders said he got involved with trapshooting when he was 7 years old. “My dad and I were driving by a trap shooting range and I asked him what it was all about and he explain how trapshooting worker,” Borders said. “I had never really seen anything else like it. You use a shotgun and you use BBs to shoot the discs.” Over the years, Borders was able to become more and more involved in the shooting as a sport and eventually joined the high school’s trapshooting team.
Borders spends much of his free time at area shooting ranges practicing his shooting to improve his skills and accuracy. “I usually shoot 300 rounds at a time and practice three times a week,” he said. “My success is play how I practice.” The regional trapshooting ranges and the competition follow pandemic-health and safety requirements, Borders said. And even though distance learning has been challenging, he said is still able to be involved in the sport that he enjoys. “It allows me time to do the shooting,” he said, “As long as I keep my grades up I will still be able to go off and shoot.” While Borders enjoys the trapshooting, he said it’s unlikely that he would attempt to make a living with the sport following high school. “You can make a living with trapshooting,” he said. “But I am not sure I want to that. I am thinking more of becoming a utility lineman. I want a job that is bit more unique, allows me to work with my hands and not be stuck in an office, and one that pays well.”
Gov. Kate Brown has released her recommended budget and policy agenda for the 2021-23 biennium, which focuses on addressing and ending systemic racial disparities, responding to the COVID-19 pandemic and rebuilding communities affected by the wildfires. Brown’s recommended budget for 2021-23 proposes $100.2 billion in total funds spending, including $25.6 billion in General Fund and Lottery Funds. The budget includes over $293.8 million in increased revenues and leaves $243.3 million in the General Fund. In addition, by the end of the 2019-21 biennium, the Rainy Day Fund is projected to have a balance of $942.3 million. Thanks to prudent spending and healthy reserves, Oregon remains in a healthy position to meet future challenges, according to Brown.
reform is also guiding the upcoming closures of three of the states 16 prisons. Mill Creek in Salem is slated to close at the start of July next year, six months later Shutter Creek in Coos Bay will close and six months after that Warner Creek in Lakeview will close. “My plan for the future of our prison system is that the state will no longer invest in extensive and expensive buildings, but invest in people,” Brown said.
ing anyone who tests positive for COVID-19 to stay home and isolate themselves for 10 days from the date symptoms developed. “We will notify their contacts and ask them to quarantine for 14 days from the date they were exposed,” he said. Identifying cases According to Paul, it is critical that COVID-19 cases be identified as soon as possible so that health officials can notify people who haven’t been affected but may have had contact with those who have tested positive. “That gives them the option of getting tested themselves or they can safely isolate themselves,” he said. Paul said the testing is a critical part of slowing the virus in Columbia County. “We have a huge number of cases in Columbia County and across the state,” Paul said. “This is eliminating as many barriers as possible to testing and we are bringing it as close to people as possible to make it easy for them to come and get tested.” According to Paul, isolated pockets of the virus spread quickly. “People who have the virus and don’t know they are positive are interacting with others and are spreading the virus,” he said. Additional drive-by testing is scheduled from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Wednesdays, Dec. 9, 16 and 30, at St. Helens High School, 2375 Gable
Road. No insurance is required. Paul said additional testing could be conducted into the new year depending on the outcome of the December tests and whether the number of case increases. Surge testing Paul said the December effort is “surge testing.” “There is a high demand in the Portland-metro area for the testing, and we have so many cases right now we need to increase our testing capacity to meet the demand for testing and so that we can identify more cases,” he said. According to Paul, a factor in Columbia County’s sharp rise in COVID-19 cases is its link to the metro area with many people commuting back and forth and vice versa, and Multnomah and Washington counties’ high surge in cases. This week, Columbia County has been ranked in the states ’extreme risk’ category due to the pandemic. Paul said in order to protect local businesses and people in the community from coronavirus, to safely reopen schools and bring down the case rate to a safe level, the county needs to increase testing capacity and community members need to closely follow the pandemic restrictions and guidelines. “People are experiencing fatigue from the pandemic,” Paul said.
Governor proposes $100 billion in spending
Racial disparities “I believe the first step in creating opportunity is recognizing that racism is endemic to our systems, impacting every part of our culture and economy,” Brown said in a press conference addressing the budget Wednesday, Dec. 1. Brown convened the Racial Justice Council this year to help advise her priorities and root policies in equity. A focus on criminal justice
Pandemic The ongoing impacts of the pandemic are felt through the budget as well, and Brown said there were challenges in creating the plan. “Let me be very, very clear: The budget does not put enough money into our schools and doesn’t make the investments in public health we need,” she said. “It is a budget built on sacrifice and hard choices.” The Oregon Health Authority estimates $252 million in resources will be needed to respond to the COVID-19 pandemic over the next six months, Brown said. An additional $433 million is expected to be needed for July through December of 2021. Brown called for a federal stimulus plan to help address the needs of Oregonians, including $350 million
for rent forgiveness and mortgage relief, the continuation of $600 Federal Pandemic Unemployment Insurance for people laid off during COVID-19 closures, a renewed Paycheck Protection Program, increased funding for schools and childcare, among other asks. “What I think is really important is that Republicans and Democrats in Washington D.C. put aside their political differences and put the American people first,” Brown said. “That means working together and solving problems.” At a glance Housing and homelessness: • $4.5 million investment to support youth aging our of foster care and facing homelessness • $20 million investment for homeowner assistance, including down payment assistance • $2 million to fund a technical assistance program through Oregon Housing and Community Services for outreach to communities of color • $2.3 million expansion of the Agricultural Workforce Housing Tax Credit for the development of housing for agricultural workers Education • $14.1 million in distance learn-
ing grants • $28.1 million in funding for the Student Success Act Early Learning account to support existing child care providers • $5.8 million for mental health consultation for child care providers in need of assistance for behavioral health needs of children • $9.1 billion in funding for the State School Fund Wildfires
• $73.7 in additional fire preparedness • $189.5 million to rebuild communities affected by the fires • $170 million accessible to the Governor’s Wildfire Economic Recovery Council for general purpose community development resources Equity • $20 million investment in equalizing compensation for public defenders • $118 million investment in statewide broadband expansion • $5.8 million to support police accountability plans and training
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Friday, December 4, 2020
Columbia County Tradition Christmas Ships Parade
Photo courtesy of the Oregon Heritage Commission
The holiday tradition is designed to highlight the season and the importance of the Columbia River. JEREMY C. RUARK jruark@countrymedia.net
Despite the COVID-19 pandemic, organizers said the annual Christmas Ships Parade along the Columbia and Willamette Rivers will still be held. The parade is a long standing tradition in Columbia County and is set for Dec. 12 in St. Helens and Dec. 13 at the Scappoose area. “We are encouraging everyone to observe the ships and follow all safety guidelines and protocols,” Christmas Ships Parade Board and fleet member Kelly Marks said. “The nature of the parade is inherently safe for the participates and we are minimizing parties and guests due to the pandemic. We encourage everyone to be safe and follow protocols.” Marks said in previous parades, the ship operators would invite the public to the docks to view the ships up close but because of the social distancing requirements, the public is being encouraged to stay on shore. The Christmas Ships Parade, a long-standing Oregon event, marks its upcoming 66th year with an Oregon Heritage Tradition designation by the Oregon Heritage Commission. “The designation recognizes those traditions that have helped define the character of the state,” Oregon Heritage Commission’s Chair Chelsea Rose said. “The Christmas Ships Parade ties into the importance of
the river to Oregon’s heritage and Oregon’s identity. It is an event enjoyed by many as the ships travel the Willamette and Columbia Rivers and is a long standing tradition for those who view it each year.” The Christmas Ships Parade began with one decorated sailboat in 1954 and has since grown to over 70 participating boats. The entirely volunteer operated event runs for 15 nights during December and travels the Willamette and Columbia Rivers in the Portland Metro area providing opportunities for communities to view it from the river front, restaurants, parks, neighborhoods and waysides along the rivers. Several cities along the rivers have tied their holiday events to the parade schedule, including St. Helens, which will offer a drive-by holiday display at 5:30 p.m. Dec. 12 with Santa Claus at Plaza Square in the Old Town District. The Christmas Ships Parade is a 66-year treasured tradition for many families and community members who took forward to the small and large brightly lit, colorful, and thematically decorated displays to celebrate the holiday season. “A 100% volunteer run organization, Christmas shippers spend countless hours on the chilly river waters to bring smiles to young and old alike, Marks said. “Once you participate in the Christmas Ships Parade, whether as a captain or a spectator, you will make it a tradition
Photo courtesy of the Oregon Heritage Commission
For 66 years Christmas ships small and large have paraded with brightly lit, colorful, and thematically decorated displays to celebrate the holiday season.
Courtesy photo from the Oregon Heritage Commission
This is the St. Helens route of the Christmas Ships Parade along the Columbia River.
of your own.” According to Marks, the parade is about more than Christmas. “It represents family, community, celebration and hope,” she said. “It is a positive and uplifting experience unlike any other.” Volunteers dedicate over 3,000 hours in trainings, meetings, outreach, logistics,
and the actual time in the parade. They host up to three meet and greet events at different locations where community members can see the boats up close, meet the boat owners, and learn about boat safety. Parade volunteers also partner with various charities throughout the year such as Fallen Firefighters, Ronald McDonald House,
William Temple House, Portland Fire & Rescue Toy and Joy Makers, and Columbia River Fire & Rescue Toy N Joy and Holiday Hope. This is an unusual year for Heritage Traditions, according to a release. COVID-19 has forced many events to cancel or restructure for the first time in their 50-plus year history. The only other time Oregon Heritage events have canceled has been due to WWI and WWII. This may be one of the few designated events that can safely proceed with their regular events with some minor safety modifications per state guidelines, the release states. While the parade will run as normal, all Meet & Greet events and open house activities are canceled for the 2020 parade season. As always, it is possible that individual parade night cancellations may occur due to unsafe weather conditions. This is unrelated to the pandemic. Notification of any cancellations will be posted at www.chistmasships.org and social media channels. More information can be found on their website at: www.christmasships.org. The Oregon Heritage Commission coordinates efforts to solve statewide heritage issues through grants, education, and advocacy, and also promotes heritage tourism efforts. Route details The combined fleet, Columbia River and Willamette River Fleets, assembles at
the St. Helens city docks and heads downriver to Columbia City, at 6 p.m. on Dec. 12. Weather/river conditions permitting crosses to the Washington side and the RV Park, then returns to St. Helens city docks. The fleet is out about two hours. Ships remain overnight at St. Helens city docks and leave Sunday for the trip up Multnomah Channel. Parade organizers list the following outdoor viewing locations in Columbia County for the Christmas Ships parade: • Columbia Courthouse - above the St. Helens City Docks • Columbia View Park south of courthouse parking lot • Sand Island - Access by boat only • Caples House Museum, 1925 First St, Columbia City • Pixie Park, Columbia City Marks said the ships parade at Scappoose can be viewed from various vantage points along the Columbia River, such as Dyke Road or along Highway 30. “There are vantage points along the highway, so people can stay in their cars and watch safely,” Marks said. “We encourage people to view the route maps on our website and to please stay clear of private property.” Schedules are subject to change due to boating safety, weather or other reasons beyond control of Christmas Ships, Inc. For more information visit www.christmasships.org.
Clatskanie bringing stage to screen MONIQUE MERRILL chronicle2@countrymedia.net
The COVID-19 pandemic may have closed the doors of many theaters, but for the Clatskanie Middle/High School Drama Department, the show must go on. At 6 p.m. Friday, Dec. 11, the department will premiere its latest production “Alice in Wonderland” on YouTube. After its premiere the show will be available to watch anytime. By using the video conferencing platform Zoom, the students recorded the entire play socially distanced. “This was a new pro-
cess,” said Jamie Erwin, the music, drama and art teacher at Clatskanie Middle/High School and director of the production. The version of the play is from the book “Dramatized Classics for Radio Style Reading, Volume 1” by Lewy Olfson, but Erwin said the class worked to add visual components to the production. Though the play is recorded in separate locations, Erwin said the class incorporated make-up costumes and props to add a visual factor and differentiate it from a radio show. All but four of the actors in the play recorded their
lines over Zoom from home, the others came to school for a better internet connection on the day the performance was recorded. Keeping in line with theater traditions, the kids had a green room to hang out in while others were performing, except this time it was a separate video chat window than the one that was recorded, Erwin said. The class tried different ways of recording the show and voted on the style they liked best, Erwin said. To watch the show, visit www.youtube.com/watch?v =XgHJF6N9UQc&feature= youtu.be.
Photos courtesy of Clatskanie Middle/High School Drama Department
Clatskanie Middle/High School student Lilly Boothe as Alice in the play.
Clatskanie Middle/High School student Blake Brockway as the Mad Hatter.
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Columbia County at an “extreme risk” MONIQUE MERRILL chronicle2@countrymedia.net
Columbia County continues to be under restrictions in the state’s new COVID-19 containment plan. The new plan assesses each county’s risk of spreading COVID-19 based on its case rate and test positivity rate over a two-week period. Columbia County, along with 20 other counties in Oregon, is currently categorized at an “extreme risk” and must operate under the strictest set of guidelines. The guidelines for extreme risk, though strict, loosen some of the restrictions of the state-issued two-week freeze which expired on Wednesday, Dec. 2. Other restrictions are somewhat stricter. For example, restaurants will now be able to offer outdoor dining with a maximum of six people per table but retail stores will be limited to 50% capacity and curbside pickup is encouraged. Restrictions The following restrictions will be in place for counties at an extreme risk: • Both indoor and outdoor gatherings are limited to a maximum of six people from two households total. • Indoor recreation and fitness centers (gyms, pools, K-12 sports) are not allowed. • Indoor entertainment centers (aquariums, theaters, museums, event spaces) are not allowed. • Retail stores are limited to 50% capacity and curbside pick up is encouraged. • Restaurants can provide outdoor dining with a maximum of 50% capacity and a close time of 11 p.m., though takeout is highly recommended. • Churches, funeral homes, cemeteries and mortuaries have an indoor maximum of 25% capacity
or 150 outdoor. • Offices are required to close to the public and require remote work if able. • Outdoor recreation (parks and hiking, K-12 sports, personal training) has a limit of 50. • Outdoor entertainment (zoos, gardens, theaters or any outdoor entertainment activity) has a limit of 50. • Personal services are allowed. • Long-term care facilities can allow only outside visitation. Every two weeks, the county’s COVID-19 metrics will be reassessed, the next reassesment will be on Dec. 18. If the county’s metrics improve, it will move into the “high risk” category and restrictions will loosen to allow some indoor dining and limited indoor recreation and entertainment (at 25% capacity). Retail and indoor faith gatherings will not be altered, but both outdoor recreation and outdoor entertainment gatherings will increase to a maximum of 75 people allowed. Remote office work is still required as able. Columbia County figures Since the onset of the pandemic in March, there have been 539 cases of COVID-19 in the county and four death as of Wednesday, Dec. 2. The fourth death was reported Wednesday. The victim was a 75-yearold male with underlying health conditions. The three other deaths occurred between early August and mid November. In order for the county to be classified down to “high risk” it must report between 100 to 200 new cases of COVID-19 per 100,000 people in a two week period and have a test positivity rate between 8% and 10%. These are the same metrics that the county must meet in order for schools to transition to limited in-person
Graph courtesy of the Oregon Health Authority
The Oregon Health Authority reported the number of hospitalized COVID-19 patients across Oregon increased to 584 as of Monday, Nov. 30.
instruction as well. From Nov. 8-21 there were 109 new cases, which amounts to 206.6 cases per 100,000 people. The test positivity rate was 7.4%. These metrics prevent the county from reopening schools and put the county at an “extreme risk”. The case trends in the county indicate there won’t be much of a change in the next two weeks. There were 166 new cases within the last two weeks, from Tuesday, Nov. 17, to Monday, Nov. 30— a substantial increase. As of last Wednesday, Nov. 25, the county public health department reported there were 69 people considered currently infectious, meaning it had been less than 10 days since the onset of symptoms. In the week from Nov. 18-25, three people in the county were hospitalized. In total, 28 people from the county have been hospitalized due to COVID-19, according to data from the county public health department. A case is counted as hospitalized if they have been admitted for more than
24 hours in an observation unit of emergency room and have tested positive for COVID-19, said county Community Health Nurse Supervisor Heather Bell. “There are those who will have mild symptoms, and may only be affected by being unable to work for 10 or 14 days,” Bell said. “But there are also those who need hospitalization, who will have severe symptoms that linger for months, and as we see not only here but across the country, those who will die and their loved ones will miss them.” She said there is no way to know whether any person will be affected in a mild or severe way, and that’s part of the reason community leaders are asking people to take protective measures for themselves and their community. Statewide Oregon’s case numbers are on the rise. On Sunday, Nov. 27, the Oregon Health Authority (OHA) reported the highest daily total since the pandemic began at 1,669— a record it
had broken multiple times throughout November. As of Wednesday, Nov. 30, the state case total was 78,160 with a death toll of 953. “COVID-19 is spreading faster in all parts of Oregon. It took six months before 25,000 Oregonians became sick with COVID-19 and two more months until we reached 50,000 total COVID-19 infections in Oregon. Most recently, it took three weeks to go from 50,000 cases to 75,000 and this weekend we crossed 900 total deaths,” said Patric Allen, OHA director. A large factor of the state-issued restrictions is to preserve beds in hospitals, which are nearing their capacities. As of Nov. 27, the OHA reported only 60 available intensive care unit (ICU) beds available in the region that includes Clackamas, Clatsop, Columbia, Multnomah, Tillamook and Washington counties. The region has 343 staffed ICU beds total, and 283 are occupied. In her press conference announcing the new state-
wide risk-assessed restrictions on Wednesday, Nov. 24, Gov. Kate Brown said now is the time that Oregonians must double down on their efforts to stop the spread of COVID-19. “Our situation is extremely dire. Our hospitals are stretched thin and people are dying,” Brown said. “Not everyone dies from COVID-19, that’s true, but trust me this is not a virus you want to get. Even young people’s lives can be devastated by the virus.” The long term effects of the virus are still being studied, but so far include extreme fatigue and a loss of taste and smell, she said. Dr. Dean Sidelinger, the state’s epidemiologist, acknowledged the challenges in keeping distance from loved ones during the holiday season, but stressed the importance of limiting social interactions for everyone’s health. “Let’s think hard about how we celebrate holidays this year so next year we can celebrate safely,” he said. “A test is not a free pass to resume our activities.” There will be four-hour drive-thru COVID-19 testing events from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Wednesdays Dec. 9, 16 and 30 at St. Helens High School, 2375 Gable Road. No insurance is required, according to Columbia County Public Health. One person will be allowed per appointment, and each person must register individually. Registration assistance will be available at each event for those without internet access. Those with internet access can register and select appointment times at www. doineedacovid19test.com. Follow daily pandemic updates at thechiefnews. com with in-depth reports in the Friday print editions of The Chief.
Cultural project grant funding available STAFF REPORT chiefnews@countrymedia.net
Projects that advance the culture, art and heritage for Columbia County may be eligible to receive grant funding in 2021 from the Columbia County Cultural Coalition. The grant awards range from $500 to $2,000, according to a news release from the coalition. Eligible applicants include non-profits, government agencies, or groups or individuals acting through a nonprofit. Applications are open from now until the end of the day Saturday, Jan. 16. The coalition has awarded approximately $150,000 over
the last 15 years using funds allocated from the Oregon Cultural Trust, prioritizing projects and activities in the arts, local heritage and the humanities. Volunteers from around the county comprise the coalition and its cultural plan seeks to protect existing cultural assets, help people experience a variety of venues and increase access to and participation in cultural
events, the release said. Past grant recipients have included Mural Art in Clatskanie, ballet classes in Vernonia and ukulele classes for children in Scappoose. The coalition recommends that applicants design pandemicsafe events like virtual performances, workshops and classes, and said it strives to promote social justiceoriented cultural programs. Applications are available online at columbiacultural. org and should be submitted to Kannikar Petersen at kpetersen@akaandesign. com. Help with finding nonprofit agencies and completing the application can be provided by contacting Cici Bell at cicibell@juno.com
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The Clatskanie School District, food bank and other local organizations have more equipment to ward off germs and protect against COVID-19, thanks to donations of locally-made hand sanitizer in Clatskanie. Global Clatskanie, an ethanol and renewable diesel storage and export terminal at Port Westward Industrial Park, has been producing hand sanitizer at its facility. The site has a smallscale testing distillery operation in its lab from when it produced ethanol and repurposed the lab equipment to produce approximately 190 proof ethanol, said Dylan Remley, senior vice president of terminal operations at the company. “As we navigate COVID-19, we’re really focused on keeping our employees and communities safe, and
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•V iewpoints • •
We can do our part BRAD WITT Chief Guest Column
Pandemic As people have become frustrated with safety measures and restrictions and started relaxing their behavior there has been a resurgence in the COVID-19 virus which is infecting more Oregonians every day. As of Monday, Nov. 30, Oregon’s death toll was at 912. The number of Oregonians hospitalized and in intensive care units with COVID-19 is also on the rise. We can each do our part to help reduce the spread of the virus: • Wear a mask • Keep six feet between you and other people when you’re in public • Wash your hands often. In addition, all Oregon counties were subject to a two-week freeze. Recommendations are that you limit the size of your social gatherings to six people or fewer and gather with no more than one other household at a time. New containment plans took effect Dec. 2 impacting counties at high risk. (See the story on page A1). Legislature During Legislative Days in December, committees will hold informational hearings that may lead to legislation, hear reports from state agencies and task forces, and keep current on subjects impacting Oregonians. As chairman of the House Committee on Natural
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Resources, I will be overseeing a meeting with a focus on wildfires. Committee members will receive the traditional review and debrief of the 2020 wildfire season, which was the most catastrophic in Oregon State history. This will set the context for looking forward into techniques and strategies that can prevent, mitigate, and reduce future catastrophic fires. Following a fire there are post fire natural resource recovery efforts undertaken in burned areas, and those relate to salvage logging, erosion, landslides, sedimentation, watersheds, and replanting. Oregon State University experts will update committee members on wildfire management response and planning tools that describe a three prong strategy: • 1) Resilient landscapes • 2) Fire-adapted communities • 3) Safe and effective wildfire response. We will also hear about efforts undertaken by other Western States relating to resilient and adapted communities and forests following their own catastrophic wildfire seasons. The Governor’s office will also discuss their wildfire priorities heading into the 2021 session which include allocation of $50 million over the next biennium to develop a comprehensive wildfire map, bolster fire-fighting capacity and target tree thinning and fuel reduction projects in forests described as high risk. The devastation caused by the wildfires is causing an increased interest in the
Affordable Housing Land Acquisition Revolving Loan Program. Established by the Legislature in 2017, it allows eligible organizations to access the loan fund to purchase land for development of affordable housing. Loans are repaid within eight years when the construction financing is obtained. The money is then made available for future loans. I’m happy to see the NW Oregon Housing Authority in St. Helens has received the largest allocation to date, with the award of a $1.6 million dollar loan to develop rural multi-family housing. This project will begin in the coming year and use federal low-income housing tax credits, Oregon local Innovation Fast Track funding and other resources. As is the case with many public spaces, the Capitol Building remains closed to the public, and meetings are being conducted virtually. My staff and I monitor my email and phone daily, as we continue to assist constituents. If you need help in these trying times or have an issue or concern regarding a state agency, please contact my office and we’ll see what can be done. Please take care of yourself and each other. Be Safe. Rep. Brad Witt serves House District 31. He may be reached at: • Email: Rep.BradWitt@ oregonlegislature.gov • Telephone: 503-9861431 • 900 Court St NE, H-382, Salem, OR, 97301 • Website: www.oregonlegislature.gov/witt
•B lotters • •
The police blotter relates to the public record of incidents as reported by law enforcement agencies. All individuals arrested or charged with a crime are presumed innocent until proven guilty. Information printed is preliminary and subject to change. Rainier Police Nov. 13 • A citizen reported an unauthorized purchase on their account. No suspect information was available.
Nov. 14 • A male subject who had been playing the machines in the lottery room shortly after noon took an undisclosed amount of money from Hometown Pizza. The case is under investigation.
at a vehicle causing several hundred dollars in damages.
Nov. 15 • William Jacob, 23, of Kelso was taken into custody on an outstanding warrant. Jacob also received a criminal citation for false information to a police officer after lying about his identity to avoid arrest. • An unknown subject in a black SUV threw a can of beer
Nov. 19 • Christopher Bartlett, 50, of St. Helens, was taken into custody on two outstanding warrants. • An officer responded to a two-vehicle, non-injury accident on the Lewis and Clark Bridge. No citations were issued.
Nov. 16 • A local resident reported that an unknown person had opened a fraudulent unemployment claim in their name.
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A long line formed at St. Helens High School as Columbia County Public Health’s free COVID-19 testing began Wednesday morning, Dec. 2.
COVID-19 From Page A1 “And the other issue is that there are people who cannot work remotely from home and can’t safely isolate and we have seen throughout the pandemic these people are disproportionately affected. We need to provide support and quarantine for these people and that is part of the effort to bring the numbers down.” Looking ahead Paul said he is optimistic about what’s ahead. “We have seen a lot of good news about the potential vaccines for COVID-19.” Paul said. “We are very optimistic and hopeful about that, but there is going to be some time before that reaches the general population,
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so we are going to continue to need people to follow all the things that we have put out all year long, limit their gatherings, wear masks and wash hands frequently.” Paul declined to predict how long the pandemic would last. “Our job is to respond and to identify cases and we leave the predictions to the state and federal government,” he said. “But we are very hopeful for long-term solutions.” Paul said it is important that people understand the severity of this health crisis. “The virus is in Columbia County,” he said. “It’s not just in Portland. It’s not just in Wisconsin. It’s not just in China. It is here in Columbia County, so people need to follow the guidance to protect our community, protect our businesses and so that we can get kids back in school.”
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Lesson learned Paul said there is a specific lesson learned from the current pandemic. “What we have learned is that, at certain levels, our systems did not work together appropriately,” he said. According to Paul, a coordinated federal, state and local system is needed. “We also need more funding for all levels of public health,” he said. “We cannot protect people from communicable diseases unless we have staff and resources to do so.” Read more about Columbia County’s ‘extreme risk’ ranking on page A3. Follow daily pandemic updates at thechiefnews. com with in-depth reports in the Friday print editions of The Chief.
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by newsmakers, public officials or organization representatives. Or you might just have interesting thoughts to share and a penchant for writing. If you’d like to submit a guest column for publication, contact us at (503) 397-0116 or chiefnews@ countrymedia.net. All columns are subject to editing for style, grammar and clarity. However, views expressed in guest columns are independent and do not represent those of The Chief, its staff or Country Media, Inc. Obituaries Obituaries received after noon on Wednesday may not be in time for that Friday’s paper. Obituaries may be emailed to chiefnews@ countrymedia.net, sent via mail, or dropped off at the office. We also accept obituaries written by funeral homes. Include the address and daytime phone number of the person who submitted the obituary, so we can verify information as necessary.
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Friday, December 4, 2020
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A5
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Paul’s Tree Service Inc. No bush too small, no tree to tall- Call Paul! Specialized in danger trees, take downs, storm clean-up. Time to prune- pruning Lace Leafed Maples & ornamental shrubberies, chipping, senior or veterans discount, free estimates. CCB# 217173 Lic., Bonded & Insured. 503-440-0723 or 503-543-8274
Clatskanie People’s Utility District is seeking a fulltime Journeyman Lineman. This position is a Union, Non-Exempt, Hourly position and compensation is based on the current IBEW 125 contract, qualifications, and experience. Clatskanie PUD offers a competitive benefit package. A complete job description and application can be found at clatskaniepud
.com under About Us/Employment Opportunities, and paper copies are available in the office. Submit completed application, résumé, and cover letter to Human Resources, PO Box 216, Clatskanie, OR 97016, secure fax 503308-4884, email: hr@clatskaniepud.com, or complete online application. This position remains open until 5:00 pm on Thursday, January 7, 2021. If you
have questions or need additional information, please contact Lynn Donner or Sarah Johnson 503-728-2163. Clatskanie PUD is an equal employment opportunity employer, following all required federal and state employment laws. Clatskanie PUD will make reasonable accommodations for those covered by the Americans with Disabilities Act. Veterans will receive hiring preference.
9-1-1 COMMUNICATIONS SPECIALIST Columbia 9-1-1 Communications District (C911CD) is conducting a hiring process for fulltime Dispatchers (Communications Specialists). Additional information and job description can be found on our website at www. columbia911.com/ careers or by calling 503-366-6978. Online applications will be accepted until 11:45pm on December 31st, 2020.
RAINIER 1 bd. on second story, river view. W/S/G paid. Nice neighborhood, no pets.First and last $750 per month, $700 deposit. 503369-4576.
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Public Notices PROTECTING YOUR RIGHT TO KNOW
CC20-1337
NOTICE OF REGULAR MEETING The regular meeting of the Clatskanie Rural Fire Protection District board of directors will be held on, Wednesday, December 9, 2020 at 7:00 via GoToMeeting unless the Stay At Home Order
restrictions have been lifted, then the meeting will be held at 555 SW Bryant St, Clatskanie, OR, Port of Columbia County Offices (the Old Middle School). ANY AND ALL SOCIAL DISTANCING RULESIN
PLACE AT THE TIME OF THE MEETING WILL BE APPLIED DURING THIS MEETING. Items on the agenda, but not limited to: Updates on daily Fire and EMS operations. Board President, Robert Keyser
CC20-1341
IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE STATE OF OREGON FOR THE COUNTY OF COLUMBIA Probate Department In the Matter of the Estate of JAMES WILLIAM GOTCHER, Deceased. No. 20PB07890. NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the undersigned has been appointed personal representative of this estate. All persons having claims against the estate
are required to present their claims, with vouchers attached, within four months after the date of first publication of this notice to the personal representative at P. O. Box 459, Rainier, OR 97048, or the claims may be barred. All persons whose rights may be affected by the proceedings may obtain
additional information from the records of the Court, the personal representative or the attorney for the personal representative. Dated and first published December 4, 2020. Valerie Gotcher Personal Representative STEPHEN D. PETERSEN, L.L.C. Attorney at Law P. O. Box 459 Rainier, OR 97048
CC20-1340
IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE STATE OF OREGON FOR THE COUNTY OF COLUMBIA Probate Department In the Matter of the Estate of PAMELA A. FISHER, Deceased. No. 20PB02888 NOTICE TO INTERESTED PERSONS NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the undersigned has been appointed personal representative of this estate. All persons having claims
against the estate are required to present their claims, with vouchers attached, within four months after the date of first publication of this notice to the personal representative at P. O. Box 459, Rainier, OR 97048, or the claims may be barred. All persons whose rights may be affected by the proceedings may obtain
additional information from the records of the Court, the personal representative or the attorney for the personal representative. Dated and first published December 4, 2020. Ryan Jay Fisher, Personal Representative. STEPHEN D. PETERSEN, L.L.C. Attorney at Law P. O. Box 459 Rainier, OR 97048.
CC20-1338
NOTICE OF WORKSHOP A workshop of the Clatskanie Rural Fire Protection District board of directors will be held on, Wednesday, December 9, 2020 at 6:00pm (before the regular monthly meeting)
via GoToMeeting unless the Stay At Home Order restrictions have been lifted, then the meeting will be held at 555 SW Bryant St, Clatskanie, OR, Port of Columbia County
Offices (the Old Middle School); the purpose of this workshop will be to discuss updates on the District’s stations. No public comment and no action will be taken at this workshop.
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) 3974091.
NEXT president fired, arrested STAFF REPORT chiefnews@countrymedia.net
Chief photo
NEXT Renewable Fuels President Lou Soumas addressing the Port of Columbia County Commissioners in June 2019.
Lou Soumas, former president of NEXT Renewable Fuels, Inc. was arrested on child sex abuse charges in Texas in November. The board of directors fired Soumas at its Nov. 25 meeting and announced the decision on Monday, Nov. 30. NEXT is developing a renewable diesel facility in
Clatskanie. “The board’s decision and action was based on information that came to light late last week concerning a personal matter involving Mr. Soumas and is completely unrelated to NEXT,” NEXT’s Executive Chairman and controlling shareholder Christopher Efird said in a statement about the termination on Monday. “However, we are confident in our decision that immediate termination
was necessary.”Soumas was indicted for two charges in Fort Bend, Texas in January for offenses that occurred in March and May of 2019, according to public records. On Nov. 13, Soumas was arrested for two felonies: indecency with a child by exposure and indecency with a child by sexual contact. According to public records, Soumas was issued a warrant for arrest in February, arrested in California
with a fugitive warrant in March and posted bond with an April court date. In late October he was again arrested, on a governor’s warrant seeking extradition and extradited to Fort Bend County, Texas on Nov. 13. He posted bond on Nov. 14 and filed a motion asking the court allow him to return to Oregon, which was approved. His court date is set for Dec. 21, according to Fort Bend public records.
Efird said the company’s action was based on reasons completely unrelated to the company’s business or project work. “I want to assure the community and all our stakeholders that work on the Port Westward project will continue without interruption,” Efird said. “We have very strong teams on the ground in Oregon and Houston and are moving forward full speed.”
AG cautions against charity scams STAFF REPORT chiefnews@countrymedia.net
Recognizing that many Oregon families and communities are struggling this holiday season, Oregon Attorney General Ellen Rosenblum is encouraging Oregonians to make careful and informed decisions when donating to charities. “As the COVID-19 pandemic and wildfire recovery continue to impact people throughout our state, we are thankful to be able to turn to charities to provide critical services and resources to individuals and communities,” Rosenblum said. “If you are in a position to
donate money, be sure to do your research and make informed decisions in order to maximize the impact of your giving.” One way to support Oregon wildfire recovery is by giving to the 2020 Community Rebuilding Fund, a joint effort of the Oregon Community Foundation, the Meyer Memorial Trust, and the Ford Family Foundation. The fund, which has raised $5.5 million in philanthropic and private pledges and donations to date, will invest in recovery and rebuilding — particularly for Oregon’s vulnerable communities. Learn more at oregoncf. org/oregon-wildfire-relief-
recovery. To avoid potential charity scams, follow these five tips: 1. Do your research There are more than one million charities registered with the IRS. Use these websites to find the charities whose missions and programs are the best match for you. • Guide Star • Charity Navigator • Better Business Bureau 2. Only give to registered charities Before you give, check the Oregon Department of
Justice charity database or call 971-673-1880 to confirm that the organization is properly registered with the Oregon Department of Justice. 3. Monetary donations are usually preferred Your financial donation will give a charity the most flexibility to meet the needs of the people they serve. Some groups may not have the resources to manage, store and distribute clothing, food or household goods. Check in with the organization first to make sure they can make use of the items you wish to donate.
4. Be wary of telephone, text, email or door-to-door solicitations Keep in mind that scammers are always lurking, and they see opportunity in a crisis. Resist high-pressure appeals for donations and don’t send cash or respond to requests to purchase and send gift cards. To maintain the most control over your giving, it’s best for you to initiate the contact with a charity — not the other way around. 5. Remember that not all gifts are tax-deductible Only gifts to charities that
have IRS 501(c)(3) status are tax-deductible. If taking a deduction is important to you, check the DOJ’s Charity Database IRS website to ensure your gift is going a qualified organization. Make sure the charity provides written confirmation of your donation. Then keep your records. Gifts to individuals through GoFundMe and similar platforms are not tax-deductible. For additional giving tips, visit Wise Giving Guide and After The Disaster Handout. If you have concerns about a solicitation, file a complaint online or call the Charitable Activities Section at 971-6731880.
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A6
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Friday, December 4, 2020
Local students sign Letters of Intent
Photo courtesy of Oregon Tech Sports Information
Clatskanie Middle/High School senior Olivia Sprague has signed with Oregon Institute of Technology (OIT).
Shelby Blodgett signing her Letter of Intent with OIT.
Alexis Smith signs with Lower Columbia College. JEREMY C. RUARK jruark@countrymedia.net
Looking ahead to continue their education and the sports they love, Clatskanie Middle/High Senior Shelby Blodgett and Olivia Sprague have each signed Letters of Intent to play sports for Oregon Institute of Technology (OIT). The two will play basketball for OIT and Sprague will also play softball for the college. Olivia Sprague is a 5-7
SPENDING From Page A1 Health care • $17.9 million for a range of strategies to protect assisted living and nursing homes from COVID-19. The Oregon Health Plan faces a budget gap of $718 million due to the pandemic, and the budget has faced criticism from the Oregon Association of Hospitals and Health Systems. “The Governor’s budget reflects her priorities and choices. She has chosen to propose direct cuts to hospitals in the midst of the biggest public health crisis in a century,” said Becky Hultberg, President and CEO of OAHHS. “Cuts of this magnitude could force hospitals to reduce services to Oregonians during a pandemic. These cuts cannot be justified.” In the press conference, Brown responded to the criticism and said the budget was a starting point and that she plans to work with hospitals to ensure the state has the resources to provide continued care. A challenge of putting the budget together was the uncertainty of not knowing what federal aid the state would be receiving, Brown said. “This is a really challenging time for our healthcare system. I’m hoping over the next few months we can come together to come up with a package that will sustain funding for the Oregon Health Plan,” Brown said. Local reaction Clatskanie City Manager Greg Hinkelman said Gov. Brown’s proposed budget is encouraging. “I am glad to see efforts put forth to aid workers affected by COVID shutdowns, especially those workers in the hospitality and restaurant businesses,” Hinkelman said. “I didn’t see it but I am hoping there will be some efforts and funding to continue economic development from the state level. And of course, funds to go to
senior point guard on the high school basketball team and shortstop for the school’s softball team. As co-captain, Sprague directed Clatskanie’s basketball team to back to back Coastal Range League championships and Oregon 3A state championships in 2019 and 2020, according to Oregon Tech Sports Information. A two-time All-League and 3A 1st Team All-State selection, Sprague averaged 19.5 points, 6.8 rebounds, 5.3 assists and 5.1 steals per game while shooting 72.2% those communities that were devastated by the wildfires is much needed.” Rainier City Administrator Scott Jorgensen told The Chief property taxes are the primary source of most local government revenue in Oregon, including the City of Rainier, and the city does receive shared state revenue from marijuana sales and gas taxes. “But for the most part, the city isn’t hugely dependent on the state government to fund most of its operations,” Jorgensen said. “I’m not seeing anything in there that would largely impact the city directly or immediately one way or another.” Jorgense said, being from Southern Oregon, wildfires are a huge issue for him personally. “I was in Jackson County earlier this month and witnessed firsthand the devastating aftermath of the fire that tore through Phoenix and Talent,” he said. “The place I called home while attending Southern Oregon University in 1999-03 burned to the ground, along with its entire surrounding neighborhood. I think it’s important to help those communities rebuild.” Statewide reaction Oregon Business & Industry (OBI) released a statement concerning Brown’s proposed state budget. “Over the last 10 months, families, businesses, and nonprofits across our state have had to tighten their belts and prioritize spending as the economic fallout from the COVID pandemic and wildfires devastated household incomes and robbed businesses and nonprofits of critical operating revenues. We expect our state leaders to do the same,” OBI’s communications director Nathaniel Brown said in the statement. :The state projects a 3.5% to 4% revenue shortfall for the 2021-2023 fiscal biennium. That shortfall is minuscule compared to the devastating financial losses experienced by many Oregon businesses, nonprofits, and households this year. But instead of prioritizing spending to meet available revenue –
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Photo courtesy of Dave Andrew
from the free throw line and 32.5% from the 3-point line in leading the Tigers to a 23-2 overall record in her junior season, according to Oregon Tech Sports Information. As the softball team’s co-captain, Sprague led Clatskanie to a 2019 Coastal Range championship and the 3A Oregon state championship. She earned FirstTeam All-League and 3A First-Team All-State honors with a .580 batting average, a .702 on-base percentage, three home runs, six triples,
as many Oregonians have had to do – Gov. Kate Brown’s budget includes revenueraising measures that are effectively tax increases aimed primarily at small Oregon businesses. Oregon Business & Industry disagrees with that approach. “In the midst of the greatest economic downturn to hit our state in a century, our focus must be on achieving economic recovery with an equity lens -- and helping employers get back on their feet, so that jobs and household incomes can be restored. OBI will strongly oppose any budget proposal that includes new tax revenue, and we urge the Oregon Legislature to balance the state’s budget based on the revenues that are available, not on hidden tax increases that will make it harder for businesses to recover and restore jobs.” Oregon Business & Industry is the largest business association in the state, advocating on behalf of nearly 1,600 businesses for a strong and healthy economic climate in Oregon. Our team represents the voice of business in the state capitol, state and federal regulatory agencies, Congress, and the courts.
Photo courtesy of Clatskanie Middle/High School
Photo courtesy of Rainier Jr./Sr. High School
Brayden Marcum and Reese Schimmel at the college sports signing ceremony.
seven doubles, 59 runs scored and 29 runs batted in for coach Kevin Sprague’s Tigers who finished the season a perfect 27-0. Blodgett, a 5-9 guard/forward and a Tiger team cocaptain, averaged a doubledouble with 22.3 points and 15.8 rebounds, 5.3 steals, 3.16 assists and 1.87 blocks per game. After 3 seasons, Blodgett has amassed 1,855 points. 1,316 rebounds, 446 steals, 263 assists and 156 blocks, according to Oregon Tech Sports Information. Blodgett led the Tigers
The Oregon Association of Hospitals and Health Systems response Becky Hultberg, President and CEO of the Oregon Association of Hospitals and Health Systems (OAHHS), released the following statement on hospital cuts proposed by the Gov. Brown. “The Governor’s budget reflects her priorities and choices. She has chosen to propose direct cuts to hospitals in the midst of the biggest public health crisis in a century. Cuts of this magnitude could force hospitals to reduce services to Oregonians during a pandemic. These cuts cannot be justified. Hospitals led the effort to secure new revenue for the Oregon Health Plan through the passage of M108, which secured $100 million in new revenue for this budget and $300 million for the next biennium. “Throughout her budget, she specifically targets hospitals at a time when COVID-19 hospitalizations are rising, hospitals are reducing elective procedures, and Oregonians are counting on local hospitals to care for them and their family members. We should be coming together
to back to back Oregon 3A State Championships in 2019 and 2020 earning recognition as: • 2017-18 Coastal Range League 1st Team All-conference • Oregon 3A 2nd Team All-State • 2018-19 Coastal Range League Player of the Year • Oregon 3A Player of the Year • 2019-20 Coastal Range League Player of the Year • Oregon 3A Player of the Year Senior Alexis Smith has
signed with Lower Columbia College to play softball.
as a community to respond to this pandemic to serve all Oregonians, but this budget does not reflect that spirit of collaboration. “In addition to addressing COVID-19, hospitals across Oregon have been affected this year by historic fires (which led to the evacuation of five hospitals) and global cyberattacks (which forced at least one hospital to operate on paper for weeks). Over the first six months of 2020, net patient revenue fell about 21% compared to the beginning of the year and stands at its lowest since 2016. As CARES Act funds are depleted (or may be needed to be returned based on latest Provider Relief Reporting guidelines), without additional emergency funds or a steep increase in net patient revenue, the financial situation of community hospitals in Oregon may become more precarious in the months ahead. “If enacted, the Governor’s budget will exacerbate an already uncertain financial situation for many hospitals. Reductions of this magnitude are likely to cause hospitals to cut services, impacting access to care for vulnerable Oregonians.”
promote community health and to continue improving Oregon’s innovative health care delivery system.
Rainier Students Rainier Jr./Sr. High School seniors Brayden Marcum, left, and Reese Schimme have also sign Letters of Intent to play sports for two regional colleges. Marcum will be playing baseball for Lower Columbia College. Schimmel will be playing softball for Central Washington University.
House Republican Leader Christine Drazan’s (R-Canby) response to Gov. Brown’s proposed state budget
About OAHHS
“We are in the middle of an unprecedented public health crisis and Governor Brown has proposed direct cuts to our hospitals and health care services. Oregon’s budget is not facing a structural shortfall, this is public policy choice the governor has made in her proposed spending plan for the state. She is making a mistake by cutting health care and the legislature should reject it. Health care should be prioritized, not put on the chopping block or punted to the federal government. Oregonians have supported increased taxes to sustain hospitals and health care funding again and again. Now it is our turn to prioritize fully funding our health care system. The governor’s proposed budget fails to recognize the pressing needs of Oregonians for access to a reliable health care safety net throughout this pandemic.”
Founded in 1934, OAHHS is a statewide, nonprofit trade association that works closely with local and national government leaders, business and citizen coalitions, and other professional health care organizations to enhance and
Read the entire budget proposal at thechiefnews.com and join the conversation. Post your comments on this story and follow developments at thechiefnews.com and in the Friday print editions of The Chief. Building Bridges to Self Sufficiency
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Contact your Veteran Service Officer • 503-366-6580 Call CAT at (503)397-3511 to find out if you qualify. Rental and energy assistance applications are available at 125 N. 17th St., St. Helens, OR. Also available on our website at www.CAT-TEAM.org