Columbia County’s 109th Fair and Rodeo
St. Helens.
Fair Board President Peggy Howell said there are a lot of changes at this summer’s fair. The event drew around 20,000 people in 2022, according to Howell, and the event has been growing in recent years. One of the main changes this year will be in the alcohol policy.
“We are going to have ‘walkaround alcohol.’ We will still have the beer gardens but no fence around it. The Elks are our vendor, with this brings more changes. We are checking bags at the gate, no open containers are allowed to come into the fairgrounds,” Howell said. “McMullen’s are sponsoring fill stations for guests to fill their water bottles. The bag check is a OLCC rule, the Elks liquor license is on the line and if they lose that, it will close the lodge.”
The Columbia County Fair is returning soon, and the ultrapopular Columbia County Rodeo will be held next weekend, bringing raucous action to the county for its 109th year.
The theme this year is “Sew It, Grow It, Show It,” which was submitted by Daisy Smith, and selected as the winner forthis year’s theme contest. The fair will offer a host of activities, including carnival rides, 4-H livestock shows and auctions, food, drink, and, of course, the rodeo. While the fair itself begins on July 17, the rodeo will be the main attraction and will take place on July 19 and 20 at the Columbia County Fairgrounds, 58892 Saulser Road in
This is a change that will allow people to buy drinks in the fair and walk about the grounds with drink in hand so people don’t have to take time away from the festivities to enjoy a beverage. Howell emphasized that no outside alcohol is permitted, and if the rules are violated, it could result in the loss of the Elks Lodge’s liquor license.
Another change is that the carnival rides will not be open on Sunday, the last day of the fair. People will need to be sure that if they want to get on the rides, they don’t leave it to the last minute. The reason is that staffing for the rides is too costly to remain open that day. While it is unfortunate,
Celebrating Independence Day!
See FAIR, Page A9
Tourism process slows, 13 Nights goes on
WILL LOHRE Country Media, Inc.
Though the process of hiring a new event coordinator remains unresolved, the 13 Nights concerts series will continue, and the city has announced the remaining concerts.
On June 17, the City of St. Helens voted to approve a notice of intent to award Treadway Events & Entertainment LLC as the new events coordinator. The notice of intent to award began the negotiation with the selected contractor candidate and also opened a sevenday “objection period.”
According to St. Helens Communications Officer Crystal King, the city received an appeal in protest of the city’s selection.
“The city did receive an appeal, which has been forwarded to the city’s attorney for review and response,” King said. “A new contract cannot be awarded until there is a response to the protest. We are working expeditiously with legal counsel to address the protest.”
This development marks another delay in the process of selecting a new contractor, and currently,
the city does not have an official event coordinator. The contract for the city’s previous contractor, Tina Curry of E2C Corp., expired June 30. Curry was a key catalyst for the growth of St. Helens’ tourism program and had contracted with the city in that role since 2017. Community members and councilors have credited her with making the Spirit of Halloweentown the largescale event it is today.
Regarding the timeline for getting a new contractor in the door, King said the city recognizes that “tourism is one of many community development approaches utilized by cities to support business and job growth.”
“We’re in a period of transition right now. While we don’t have a specific timeline for a new event contract agreement to be reached, the city remains committed to investing in local tourism,” King said. “Depending on the scale of tourism efforts, it can also generate regional, national, and international awareness about a city, which can create further economic growth. St. Helens possesses a unique set
TOURISM, Page A3
Police Station a work in progress
JEREMY C. RUARK Country Media, Inc.
F inal development plans for a new police station to replace the aging facility in St. Helens continue to elude the city.
In 2020, the city council began reviewing a proposed $22 million police station redevelopment plan.
The original design included a court, city council chambers and more, but as the costs mounted and limited resources were available, city officials decided in January 2023 to reduce the scale of the project.
The project seeks to address the issue of the outdated police station that currently houses the St. Helens Police Department, at 150 S. 13th
changed May 9 during a special meeting when the council decided to deny the application.
City Planner Jacob Graichen said the decision was based on potential shortcomings at the site.
During the discussion before voting to deny the conditional use permit as part of the application, Councilors Mark Gundersen and Jessica Chilton voiced that they felt the city had mitigated the concerns relating to the property but that going through the appeal process was not worth the time or the money.
“I believe the site was mitigated properly; I stand by that site,” Chilton said. “ But, I’m not willing to fight and waste our taxpayer’s money, our city’s money, to try to
prove that. I feel like the city is being held hostage by a political agenda, and I’m not willing to go down that path.”
Councilor Sundeen said he felt similarly and that getting the station built in a timely manner is now the main priority. Councilor Russell Hubbard was a member of the St. Helens Planning Commission, which flagged the building of the station in a floodplain as an issue in 2023. Hubbard said that mitigation at the Kaster Road site would cost money, and he was never in favor of the site.
The motion to deny the permit during the May meeting followed months of limbo for the facility after an appeal was filed with the State Land Use Board of Appeals (LUBA).
Next step
To gain insight into what will happen next, The Chronicle & Chief reached out to St. Helens Communication Officers Crystal King.
COURTESY PHOTO FROM HENRY WEISENSEE
and St. Helens 4th of July celebrations on Page A9.
JEREMY C. RUARK / COUNTRY MEDIA,INC.
The aging St. Helens Police station.
COURTESY PHOTO
A photo of one of this year’s concerts at McCormick Park.
WILL LOHRE Country Media, Inc.
KELLI NICHOLSON / COUNTRY MEDIA, INC.
The 2023 Columbia County Fair and Rodeo was full of rides, vendors, and fun.
Rainier Days in the Park returns
WILL LOHRE Country Media, Inc.
The annual Rainier Days in the Park celebration is back, and the town and waterfront will be alight with a parade, carnival, vendors, food, thrill rides, live music, wrestling, and fireworks.
This year’s celebration theme is “Out of this World,” bringing the cosmic energy of outer space to the Columbia River.
The event will take place at Rainier City Park on July 12, 13, and 14. The event typically brings around 2,000 folks to the park over the three-day fest, and coming out of the COVID pandemic, the event has remained a mainstay in Rainier. Starting on July12, the three-day event will feature circus wheel acrobats, a carnival, and craft and food vendors each day.
On July 13, there will be a cornhole tournament, and the proceeds will go to the Rainier Girls Basketball team. The double-elimination bracket has a $50 entry fee, but there will be prizes for the top three placers. The first place will take home $200, the second will net $100, and the third place will get their money back. There is also a singles tournament on Sunday with a $20 entry fee, with the winner taking half of all entry fees. Register by July 11 to join. Contact Shanda Wagner at 360-4337112 for information. Here are the scheduled events according to the Rainier Days in the Park Facebook page:
Friday:
• 3 p.m. Matt Smith and the Bunker Hill Band • 6 p.m. Pro Wrestling
Sunday:
• Praise in the Park • 10 a.m. All Church Service • 12 p.m. Faith-Based Music and Games
Though they had to cancel the event in 2020 due to the pandemic, they still managed to have a parade that year, and the event has been going strong since.
This year’s Rainier Days in the Park parade holds special significance and is in memory of Caleb Robert Hocking (Head) and Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) awareness. The 2023 parade was also in honor of Hocking (Head), and organizers felt the message is “so important,” they want to honor him again. A veteran and Marine, Hocking (Head), tragically took his own life only in May
2023 after many years of battling PTSD following two tours in Iraq as a Scout with the 1st Tank Battalion based at Twentynine Palms.
This will be the 33rd Rainier Days in the Park, according to the Rainier Oregon Historical Museum. The Rainier Days in the Park started in 1992 and was originally sponsored by the Rainier Chamber of Commerce. Since 2011, the event has been under the direction of Mayor Jerry Cole and a committee of community volunteers.
Presale all-day ride passes for the event, and carnival are available at Deli Store and More for $30. The event boasts an impressive firework display that will seek to be voted as the “Best on the Columbia River” for the twelfth consecutive year, according to the Rainier Days in the Park website.
Local cooling center opens following scorching heat wave
JEREMY C. RUARK Country Media, Inc.
A strong and persistent heat wave that began July 4 is searing towns and cities from British Columbia, Canada, to the California—Mexico border.
Temperatures have soared into the low 100s during the day across the region and in Columbia County.
The City of St. Helens activated a Cooling Center at the St. Helens Public Library at Columbia Center at 375 S. 18th Street, in St. Helens Friday, July 5 through Tuesday, July 9.
Food and drinks were allowed in the Columbia Center lobby. Limited bottled water was to be available. Restrooms and a drinking fountain also were available.
Only service animals are allowed inside the Cooling Center. Other pets were allowed on a leash or in a carrier on the covered porch as long as they were attended by a person. Livestock was not allowed.
Oregon Trail Lanes, at 735 S. Columbia River Highway in St. Helens also served as a Cooling Center.
The heat wave
The sweltering conditions sent many from inland to Oregon Coast locations to escape the heat. Coastal temperatures were in the upper 70s and low 80s, according to National Weather Service (NWS) meteorologist Noah Alviz.
“The coast gets that marine air, the sea breeze, that
keeps the coast cooler, but unfortunately, the coast range prevents that sea breeze from really getting inland,” he said.
“That onshore flow is not strong enough to penetrate past the coast range and so, the interior valleys just stay hot.”
The triple digit temperatures are expected to cool by Wednesday, July 10.
“We’ll start to see that onshore push, which will bring those temperatures down,” Alviz said. “The temperatures will drop down to the lower to upper 90s, for the interior and lower valleys, and for the rest of the week looks like we’ll stay in the upper 80s and low 90s.”
Strong high pressure over the western United States triggered the Pacific Coast heat wave, according to Alviz.
“When you have strong high pressure, usually air will sink,” he said. “When air sinks down, you dry up and you warm up, and this is a pretty persistent high pressure that is over us. It is moving pretty slowly, which is causing this long-duration heat wave.”
According to the NWS Prediction Center, no rain is expected through July 16.
“We are below normal for precipitation,” he said. “Generally, in July we are already pretty dry, so, the long-term outlook in July is not looking for significant amounts of precipitation.”
Alviz urged everyone to be cautious during the hot weather.
who may not have air conditioning,” he said. “The elderly and your children are more vulnerable to the heat,”
The Oregon Health Authority is encouraging people to take steps to avoid heat-related illnesses such as heat stroke and heat exhaustion as advisories predicting triple-digit temperatures are in effect through the weekend and early next week.
Oregonians can find more information about local cooling centers from 211.
Emergency declaration
Oregon Gov. Tina Kotek declared a statewide extreme heat emergency July 5, as the state prepared for the high temperatures.
“Extreme weather events are now the new normal for Oregon,” Kotek said. Right now, state and local governments are on a path to strengthen our preparedness and response, not only this year but for the years to come.
several days, I am declaring an emergency due to extreme heat. Both the recordbreaking temperatures and the duration of heat present a clear and present danger, particularly for children, elders, people with disabilities, and people who work outside. I am urging Oregonians to take every precaution and check on your family and neighbors.”
State, local and tribal agencies responded to requests for emergency cooling shelters, transportation assistance, distribution of lifesustaining supplies including water and medical services.
Kotak said the extreme heat will also put a significant strain on Oregon’s energy grid and critical infrastructure, posing a risk of utility outages and equipment and transportation disruptions.
OEM that is necessary to assist in the response to this emergency and to provide all necessary support to statewide response, recovery and mitigation efforts.
Take precautions
The Oregon Department of Emergency Management (OEM) is coordinating access to and use of personnel and equipment of all state agencies necessary to assess, alleviate, respond to, mitigate, or recover from conditions caused by the heat emergency.
The agency will also coordinate all essential protective measures in support of identified disaster areas to protect lives, property, and the environment.
“Check on you friends and neighbors, especially those
“The need for emergency declarations should decrease over time if we continue on this path – including ensuring more Oregonians have air conditioning in the summer months and heat in the winter months, that our electrical grid is modern and resilient, that communities have public spaces and green places that provide relief, and where families have a plan to stay safe and help others to do the same in severe weather.
Oregonians are encouraged to conserve energy and reduce consumption to the extent possible to avoid power disruptions and reduce the strain on our energy grid, such as avoiding the use of major appliances during peak morning and evening energy demand periods.
couraged to report violations to the Oregon Department of Justice’s Consumer Protection Services, which has the authority to investigate unlawful trade practices. Sign up for OR-alert and get lifesaving alerts and instructions during emergencies to help you and others stay safe in Oregon.
Local Resources
During extreme weather events, visit the following websites for cooling center details:
City of St. Helens website at www.sthelensoregon. gov/. Columbia County website at t www.columbiacountyor. gov/coolingcenters.
“However, gaps exist today. In the interest of safety and human life over the next
The Oregon Department of Human Services, Oregon Health Authority, Oregon State Police, Oregon Public Utility Commission (PUC), and other state agencies will be directed to provide any assistance requested by
In addition, high heat can also be a catalyst for wildfires. Kotak is encouraging Oregonians and visitors to the state to practice extreme caution and take preventive measures to reduce the risk of human-caused wildfires.
Anyone that believes they are being subjected to excessive prices for bottled water or other essential consumer goods, or lodging due to the heat emergency, you are en-
For safety information about hot weather and extreme heat, visit: Columbia County Public Health’s website at https:// www.columbiacountyor.gov/ departments/PublicHealth/ hot-weather-and-extremeheat.
Introducing 2024 My Fair Lady and Gentleman Court
eant
to Columbia County. These volunteers work at local schools, food pantries, senior centers, and more! Senior Volunteers logged more than 10,000 hours of service to Columbia County over the past 12 months.
Introducing The 2024 Court
June Shober, Scappoose
Joe Nelson,
COURTESY PHOTO FROM UNITED WAY OF COLUMBIA COUNTY My Fair Lady and Gentleman Tea, May 24, 2024: Celebrating years of royalty tradition.
COURTESY PHOTO FROM UNITED WAY OF COLUMBIA COUNTY
2024 Prince Joe Nelson, of St Helens, joined by his wife, Dena Nelson and United Way Director, Claire Catt.
COURTESY PHOTO FROM UNITED WAY OF COLUMBIA COUNTY
2024 Scappoose Princess June Shober being crowned by 2023 Scappoose Princess Pat Turpen.
COURTESY PHOTO FROM UNITED WAY OF COLUMBIA COUNTY
2024 Princesses Elaine Perry and Karin Smith, joined by other Senior Volunteers at the Kiwanis Parade on May 15, 2024.
COURTESY PHOTO FROM JENNI BANDOV
Last year’s firework extravaganza.
JEREMY C. RUARK / COUNTY MEDIA, INC.
The St. Helens Public Library opened as a community Cooling Center during the heat wave. This photo is from July 2022 during a similar heat wave.
The police blotter relates to the public record of incidents as reported by law enforcement agencies. All individuals arrested or charged with a crime are presumed innocent until proven guilty. Information printed is preliminary and subject to change. For specific details about cases listed, contact the appropriate law enforcement agency.
St. Helens Police Department
June 17
• Police arrested a 40-year-
Tourism process slows, 13 Nights goes on
From Page A1
old male subject on a fugitive warrant at the 1000 block of Deer Island Road.
June 20
• Officers arrested a 32-yearold male subject on a fugitive warrant near Old Portland Road and South 4th Street.
June 22
• Police arrested a 55-yearold male subject on a fugitive warrant at the 200 block of St. Helens Street.
June 23
• Law enforcement arrested
of natural and cultural assets that make our city a special place to live and visit. The St. Helens City Council and city staff are committed to showcasing those assets in a way that develops and preserves the highest possible quality of life for our residents, businesses, and visitors.”
a 29-year-old male subject on a fugitive warrant at the 700 block of Columbia River Highway.
• Officers arrested a 24-year-old male subject for attempted murder and unlawful use of a weapon at 170 North Vernonia Road.
June 24
• Police arrested a 48-yearold male subject for a violation of a stalking order at 300 Crouse Way.
• Officers responded to a theft at the 700 block of Cowlitz Street.
Though there is no certain timetable for ironing out a new event contract, there is clarity on the future of one of the city’s staple events. The 13 Nights on the River concert series will continue in its temporary home of McCormick Park on July 11 when the Columbia County Coyotes perform. As the city deals with the appeal and negotiations for its new event contractor,
Chronicle & Chief
Office Manager
The Chronicle & Chief has an opening for an Office Manager. Come work with our professional team running the busy office of Columbia County’s local news source since 1881. We offer competitive wage and benefits for this full-time position. Must be able to deliver world-class customer service, have good computer skills and attention to detail. If you want to work in a fast paced setting then this is the job for you.
If interested email Joe Warren at jwarren@countrymedia.net
WE ARE HIRING
Do you like working with people? Helping them be successful? Learning their story?
Join our sales team, working with local businesses to share their story with our community. No cold calls. You will be working with established advertisers. Hourly pay plus commission.
PLEASE SEND LETTER OF INTEREST & RESUME TO fperea@countrymedia.net
• Law enforcement responded to a burglary of a residence at 3000 Elk Meadows Drive.
• Police responded to a suspicious circumstance at the 300 block of 16th Street.
• Officers responded to an agency assist on a hit and run at the 2000 block of North Columbia River Highway.
June 25
• Police arrested a 26-yearold male subject on criminal mischief III at the 2000 block of Columbia Boule -
King said city staff is organizing the concerts “in the interim until the city enters into a new event management services agreement.
The complete list of the remaining concert dates is:
• July 11 - Columbia County Coyotes
vard.
• Police responded to a hitand-run at the 1700 block of Old Portland Road.
June 27
• Law enforcement arrested a 22-year-old male subject for aggravated assault and prohibited possession of a weapon near Columbia Boulevard and White Way.
June 29
• Officers responded to a report of a stolen vehicle at the 400 block of 2nd Street.
• July 18 - Hit Machine
• July 25 - Catherine Loyer & Strawberry Roan
• August 1 - The Sweetwater Band
• August 8 - Patrick Lamb
• August 11 - Bon Bon Vivant
• August 15 - The Horn Dawgs
• August 22 - Hot Club
June 30
• Police arrested a 36-yearold male subject on DUII and reckless driving at the 500 block of North Columbia River Highway.
• Law enforcement arrested a 33-year-old female subject for disorderly conduct at the 300 block of Columbia River Highway.
July 1
• Police arrested a 29-yearold male subject on coercion-simple assault and kidnap II at the 200 block of 15th Street.
Sandwich
• August 29 - The Gold Experience
The free concert series lasts from 6-8 p.m. each Thursday through the end of August. For more information, visit the city’s website at: www.sthelensoregon.gov/ community.
SUBMITTED BY THE CLATSKANIE ARTS COMMISSION
The Clatskanie Arts Commission is honored to present free concerts by the Cascade Brass on Monday, July 22. Cascade Brass is a fivemember brass quintet made up of citizen Soldiers from the 40-member “Oregon’s Own” 234th Army Band of the Oregon National Guard. This classical musical ensemble performs in various settings throughout the year including military ceremonies such as ROTC and Officer Candidate School gradu-
The Board of Commissioners approved a 3.6% increase in solid waste fees at the Columbia County Transfer Station, effective July 1. The increase will see rates rise as much as much as $2.25 in cities across the county.
Starting July 1, the commercial tonnage rate increases from $106.12 to $109.94 per ton. Residential customers with a once-aweek curbside collection for a 35-gallon cart will also see adjustments.
The new curbside collection fees are as follows*:
• Clatskanie: Increase of
$1.04 per month
• Rainier: Increase of $0.97 per month
• Scappoose: Increase of $1.19 per month
• St. Helens: Increase of $0.96 per month
ations, changes of command, promotions, retirements, deployment ceremonies, as well as public performances. Cascade Brass is led by SSG James Cameron. This excellent performing group will be giving a short concert at the “Castle” at 1 p.m. on June 22. Come join the Senior Citizens at Clatskanie’s beautifully restored Flippin House, 620 SW Tichenor, for a delicious lunch (hamburger, baked beans, potato salad and melon) at noon ($6 to $8 depending on age) followed by the free concert on the lawn. The evening performance
Vernonia: Increase of $2.25 per month
*check with your service provider to confirm your rate increase.
The new solid waste fees are as follows:
• Commercial Tipping Fee: $109.94/ton
• Self-Haul: Minimum up to 320 lbs.: $26.89. Over 320 lbs.: $163.59/ton. Senior Rate up to 320 lbs.: $16.55
• Yard Debris: Minimum up to 860 lbs.: $26.89. Over 860 lbs.: $64.24/ton
Please note, fees for recycling items and unsecured loads will remain unchanged.
About the Columbia County Transfer Station
will take place at the Birkenfeld Theatre, 75 S. Nehalem. It will begin at 7:30 p.m. Both concerts are free, and all ages are invited to attend.
For more information about the concerts, contact Elsa at 503-728-3403, and for lunch at the Castle, contact Debbie at 503-338-8268. Mark your calendars for the Clatskanie Arts Commission’s annual kickoff to its 35th Performing Arts Series with Big Band in the Park from 2-4 in the Clatskanie City Park on Labor Day, September 2. The concert is free.
About Columbia County’s solid waste program
Columbia County plans, organizes, and directs recycling, reuse, waste reduction, and household hazardous waste management programs throughout its 657-square-mile area. The county also operates a transfer station in St. Helens and administers the solid waste collection events within the county’s unincorporated areas.
Located at 1601 Railroad Avenue, St. Helens, OR 97051, the Transfer Station is open Monday through Saturday from 8 a.m. until 5 p.m., except for holidays. The Transfer Station also hosts multiple Hazardous Household Waste (HHW) Collection Events throughout the year. For more information about the Transfer Station or HHW Collection Events, please call (503) 397-7259 or visit Columbia County’s website at https:// www.columbiacountyor.gov/ departments/SolidWaste.
Cascade Brass to perform in Clatskanie
JEREMY C. RUARK / COUNTRY MEDIA, INC.
The first of the two free concerts will be held at the Castle on the lawn.
COURTESY PHOTO FROM THE CLATSKANIE ARTS COMMISSION
The second concert will be held at the Birkenfeld Theater housed in the Clatskanie Cultural Center.
CHAMBER CHATTER
The chamber is changing… for the better!
BY
SUBMITTED
THE SOUTH COLUMBIA COUNTY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
Change is in the air, and our local chamber of com merce is proof of that. Not only has our local chamber brought on new board mem bers, but it has also upgraded its staff. We always knew The South Columbia County Chamber of Commerce to be a quaint and resourceful membership-based organiza tion, but with our growing economy, the demand for more assistance was immi nent.
With new Leadership came new ideas, and The chamber board decided to bring on an additional staff member to work side by side with Jak Massey, the sole employee of The South Columbia County Chamber of Commerce. The chamber’s goal is to better serve our members and they recognize they need a bigger team to meet the demands of their growing organization.
Ashalynn Bowers was hired to be the chamber’s new “Director of Communications” in April of 2024. Ashalynn said that landing this position is “a blessing and something she manifested.”
Ashalynn was born and raised in Los Angeles, California. From a young age, Ashalynn showed signs of being a natural born entrepreneur. It wasn’t until her teenage years when that side of her really came to light when she started her modeling career at 16 years old. Ashalynn came from a divorced family and landed success on her own in the midst of her childhood chaos. She went on to model for 12 years and landed the covers of many reputable magazines and made a name for herself. In the midst of her modeling career she also went to school to study photography and even attended beauty school which led her to owning her own nail studio!
Being in the limelight was everything Ashalynn dreamed of, but something was missing. She decided to move to Oregon on a whim in the summer of 2011 to
started from the bottom and now I’m here!”
“No one is perfect, and I’m proof that anyone can turn their life around and do better,” Ashalynn said. “I am someone who gets motivated by my past instead of letting it keep me down.”
Ashalynn is now a single mother of two young and amazing children and she owns three businesses on top of her new position as “Director of Communications” at the chamber! She has owned five businesses total in her 38 years of life. When Ashalynn is not passionate about her community work with the chamber, she operates her social media management business called “That Business Bestie,” where she helps other local businesses manage their social media pages; she designs websites and helps businesses find work and advertise! Aside from that, Ashalynn formally owned a local boutique called “Sage & Salvage Boutique,” which she recently decided to close after 4 years in business. She also owns “The Painting Momma,” where she refinishes antique and beaten-up furniture and gives it new life! With her background
in social media and being a highly motivated creative, The Board had to have her join the team and we can now see why! Her work and statistics are truly impressive and they are excited for what the future of the chamber holds with the new staff lineup!
The chamber is growing and they have a lot of new and fun ideas being implemented. With more staff they are able toserve their members better and will be bringing on more benefits and resources to their memberships.
Ashalynn’s goal is to scale this already successful small town organization into a more updated and resourceful organization and to make the chamber more beneficial for their members.
“With the growing memberships we need better branding and it’s time to really make some changes. Small businesses in our community have been through a lot over the past five years and I am passionate about helping other entrepreneurs scale their businesses and I want to use all my skills I’ve acquired over the years to better serve our community and grow our economy to keep this an amazing place for our children and family to live,” Ashalynn said.
Ashalynn has already helped a handful of locals brand and promote their businesses and now she’s with the chamber!
“We encourage all business owners to join the chamber. Even if you’re a pro at what you do it never hurts to be a part of a community that is the same as you,” Ashalynn said. “I found my people with the chamber community. After everything I’ve been through in my life I finally found a place with people who are just like me and have the same dreams and goals and are the sweetest and kindest people I’ve ever been around.”
Next time you see Ashalynn out and about stop and say, “Hello!” She is full of facts and laughs!
Email Ashalynn at: communicationsdirector@ sccchamber.org
LETTERS TO THE EDITOR
Thank you
It isn’t really news. I just wanted to say thank you to Raymond of the Food bank. He was very helpful the day I fell on my face. He was right there to comfort me. And right on, calling the medics. Thank you, Raymond, and I will be there for my ice cream.
Nancy Courser, Rainier
Why no 4th of July fireworks show?
I don’t know what the actual reason was behind the decision to not have a fireworks show this year was, but the reason given was pretty lame. I have lived in St Helens almost my entire life and I cannot recall a 4th without a fireworks show until now. Parking was an excuse not a reason. For decades the parking was limited. It was only recently the old mill property was used for additional parking which by the way they
charged for, City government has provided one disappointment after another. It appears another problem has been created with the hiring of an events coordinator. It’s a revolving door of problems. On top of all the issues known and unknown it has been said that the city is broke or is going broke. Maybe we need professional people with real business experience that act like professionals and dress like professionals. What we don’t need are people who want to run just to settle scores and past grievances, and you know who you are.
Patrick Klein, St. Helens
On voting
Since passing the motor voter rule into law in 2015 the Non Affiliated Voters have become the largest voting block in the state of Oregon yet the state retains a closed primary election system which allows the Democrat and Republican political parties to seemingly dictate which candidate appears on the ballot. During the first 2024 pres-
Community Events
July 13 16th Annual Car Show presented by St. Helens Elks
8 a.m. at 350 Belton Road. Breakfast and lunch available on site. Music, raffles, 50/50, t-shirts, vehicle judging and People’s Choice Award. Free event shuttle at CC Rider Transit Center, 1155 Deer Island Road.
July 13 NAMI (National alliance on Mental Illness) Support Group Meeting
11 a.m. - 1 p.m. at Elks Veteran Bunker (House), 125 S 13th St., St. Helens. The group’s focus is selfcare for those who have a loved one with mental illness. Contact Judy Thompson for more information, 503-397-6056.
July 16 Columbia River PUD monthly Board Meeting
6 p.m. in CRPUD’s Community Room (64001 Columbia River Hwy Deer Island, OR 97054).
If you wish to submit a written public comment for the Board to review during the meeting, please submit it to comments@crpud. org prior to 5:00pm on the day of the Meeting.
July 18, 19 & 20 Quilt on the Fence Sale
10 a.m. - 4 p.m. at the Scappoose Middle School turn around off Hwy. 30 in Scappoose. Presented by the Scappoose Senior Center Quilters. Sale features many homemade items.
July 26 Back to our Roots
idential debate I saw a pale and frail democratic president mumble and struggle to answer questions in a controlled studio environment. I also saw an arrogant and angry former republican president repeatedly refuse to answer direct questions or blatantly lie for 90 minutes.
The real threat to democracy in our country is the power of political parties to dictate their minority far right fascist and far left socialist ideas through control of our executive and legislative branches at both state and national levels. Neither current political party candidate I saw during the debate is viable to lead our country anywhere yet party leadership and enablers are working overtime to manipulate the media and their major donors to protect their precious two party political monopoly.
The time has come for the political parties to grow up and take away the car keys from grandpa. We “the people” need politicians who are willing to work together for the good of our nation, while we still have one.
Joe Turner, Columbia City
6 p.m. - 9 p.m. Praise & Worship at Rainier City Park, 681 W A Street in Rainier. For more information, please call Angela Wayman at 971-757-0271.
July 27 Back to our Roots
10 a.m. – 5 p.m. The Decades Band will play in Rainier Park, 681 W A Street in Rainier. 5 p.m. – 7 p.m. Cruising A Street in Rainier. For more information, please call Angela Wayman at 971-7570271.
July 28 Back to our Roots Noon – 3 p.m. Cornhole tournaments in Rainier Park, 681 W A Street in Rainier. 3 p.m. – 7 p.m. The Sweet Water Band will play in Rainier Park, 681 W A Street in Rainier. For more information, please call Angela Wayman at 971-757-0271.
August 1 17th Annual I/DD Picnic “Heroes of Advocacy” 11 a.m. - 4 p.m. at the Columbia County Fairgrounds. Come by for a petting zoo, face painting, caricatures, costume contest, DJ and dancing, catered lunch, games and more. Feel free to bring a comfortable chair, sunglasses, hat and sunscreen. Visit HeroesofAdvocacyPicnic.eventbrite.com.
August 2-4 Vernonia Friendship Jamboree
Come by for vendors, kid zone, log show, parade, bike show and much more. For more information call Angela Wayman at 971-7570271.
August 3 Vernonia Log Jam Car Show 9 a.m. - 3 p.m. located inside
Vernonia Friendship Jamboree, 377 Bridge Street in Vernonia. Come by for raffles, car show, beer garden, The Decades Band and more. Fore more information call Angela Wayman at 971-7570271.
On Going Events
Mondays
Storytime on Mondays 11 a.m. at the Columbia City Library, 2000 Second St. in Columbia City. For questions call, 503-366-8020.
Celebrate Recovery For anyone struggling with addiction, hurts, habits, and hangups. Doors open at 6:30 p.m. for coffee, snacks, and fellowship. The meeting starts at 7 p.m. The first Monday of each month at 6 p.m. the doors open for a free dinner. Yankton Community Fellowship, 33579 Pittsburg Road in St. Helens. 503-396-7091. Childcare is available. www.yanktoncommunityfellowship.com.
Tuesdays
Community Meals serves free community dinner
5:30 p.m. – 6 p.m. at First Lutheran Church, 360 Wyeth St., St. Helens. Doors open at 5 p.m.
Thursdays
Columbian Toastmasters Noon – 1 p.m. Promoting positive learning and leadership through public speaking. Anyone is welcome to visit! Lunch meetings at Warren Country Inn, 56575 Columbia River Hwy, Warren, OR 97053 from 12 p.m.1 p.m. every Thursday. Call 503369-0329 for more information.
Fridays
Caples House Tea and Sweets
2 p.m. - 4 p.m. Caples House offers Tea and Sweets: a bottomless cup of tea with a homemade dessert. Cost is $5. In The Cottage, 1925 First Street in Columbia City. Call 503-397-5390 for more details.
Fridays – Sundays
Caples House Museum Tours
1 p.m. - 5 p.m. - Caples House Museum Tours, 1925 1st Street in Columbia City. Cost is $5. Stop by and see what has changed. Caples House Museum Tours are closed except by reservation until Friday March 1. If you’d like a tour, please call 503-397-3590.
Saturdays
Overcomers Outreach
Meetings are held every Saturday at 9 a.m. at Creekside Baptist Church, 51681 SW Old Portland Road in Scappoose. Call Fred 971-757-6389.
22nd Annual Scappoose Farmers’ Market (May 4th - Sept. 28th) 9 a.m. - 2 p.m. next to Heritage Park in Scappoose, Oregon.
Come by for nursery plants, herbs, flowers, food, handmade products by local craftsmen and more. For more information call 503-730-7429 or www.scappoosefarmermarket.com.
Weekly Events
Resonate Recovery Meets at 7 p.m. to 8 p.m. Wednesday - Sundays. This is a Bible based, Christ-centered spiritual recovery meeting for those struggling with addictions and compulsive behavior at 220 S. 1st Street in St. Helens. Everyone is loved and welcomed. For more information call Debbie at 503-560-0521, Daniel Grant at 714-768-9327 or check the Resonate Facebook page.
Clatskanie Senior Center Lunches
Clatskanie Senior Center lunches
Clatskanie Senior Center Lunches now served Monday, Wednesday, and Friday at noon at the Castle Cafe, 620 SW Tichenor. Call 503-728-3608 for reservations. Use ground floor entrance to the left of front stairs. Good parking in back off of SW Bryant Street. Castle Tours available by appointment, includes Clatskanie Historical Society museum. Call Debbie at 503-338-8268.
The Rainier Public Library is open from 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays, 10:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. on Fridays and 10:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. on Saturdays. It will be closed Sundays and Mondays.
Monthly Events
Laundry Day provided by St. Wenceslaus’ Laundromat Ministry 10 a.m. – 1 p.m. at Scappoose Laundromat, 52494 SW 1st Street #3531 in Scappoose. This event is held on the 3rd Saturday of every month. Winter weather conditions may cause cancellation. Bring your laundry and the rest is supplied (laundry detergent, dryer sheets and quarters). For questions call 503-543-2110.
Lower Columbia River Watershed Council Lower Columbia Watershed Council meets the second Monday of the month at 6:30 p.m. in the Clatskanie PUD building. Zoom links are also available. Visit the council’s website for agenda postings and Zoom at www.lowercolumbiariver.org/ events-page.
Avamere at St. Helens 2 p.m. – 3 p.m. Avamere at St. Helens hosts a Virtual Dementia Support Group – 3rd Wednesday of each month. For more details, contact Jenny Hicks/Avamere at St. Helens at 503-366-8070.
To list an
COURTESY PHOTO FROM THE SOUTH COLUMBIA COUNTY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE Ashalynn Bowers
Alexander Sebastian Warner, beloved son, brother, father, and fiancé, was born on Nov. 9, 1996, in Portland, Oregon, to Joel and Denise Warner. Alex passed away at the young age of 27 on April 19, 2024. He leaves behind his two cherished sons, Adam (11) and Erik (4), his sister Lillian Warner, brother Hunter Hull, mother Denise Warner, father Joel Warner, and the love of his life, Julianna Holmes.
It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of our beloved mother, grandmother, great grandmother and great great grandmother, Katherine Hansen. She was born in Adams, Nebraska to Lyle and Agnes Klein, on Jan. 27, 1938. She went to be with the Lord on July 3, 2024 with her family at her side.
Loretta Louise Hopkins went to be with the Lord on Fri., April 12, 2024.
Loretta is the wife of Richard Hopkins, and they were both longtime residents of St. Helens, Oregon.
Alexander Sebastian Warner Nov. 9, 1996 ~ April 19, 2024
Alex also leaves behind three beloved cats, Valerie, Bubba Sue, and Keanu. His grandmother, Alice Warner, preceded him in death.
Alex was a dedicated father, a talented musician, and an avid animal lover. Known for his big heart and unwavering passion, he approached everything he did with determination and love. Alex’s vibrant spirit, love for his family, and dedication
to his passions will be deeply missed by all who knew him. We invite you to join us in celebrating the life of Alexander Warner. The memorial service will be held at 1 p.m. on July 13, 2024, at Grace Baptist Church, 58690 Ross Rd,. Warren, OR 97053. The service will be followed by a potluck gathering. We would love to see everyone come together to honor and remember Alex.
Katherine Hansen
Jan. 27, 1938 ~ July 3, 2024
She is survived by her loving daughters, Debbie (Leonard) Kelley, Gayle (Gene) Brewer, Robyn (Dennis) Yeoman and Sonja (Steve) Lorenzo; brother John Klein; and sister Nancy (Larry) Hedgepeth.
Her husband Bob and great granddaughter Aubrey preceded her in death. She was a devoted member of the Nativity of Blessed Virgin Mary, Catholic Church in Rainier since childhood.
Kay found immense joy spending her time sewing, crocheting and quilting with her girls and granddaughters. Sports kept her entertained for hours throughout her life. Cheering on the Columbians or watching college sports made her very happy. She leaves behind a legacy of love and devotion to her family and faith. On July 18 at 12 p.m. a Catholic graveside service will be held at Hudson Cemetery in Rainier. A luncheon will follow. She will be greatly missed by all that knew her and loved her.
Loretta Louise Hopkins
April 26, 1946 ~April 12, 2024
Loretta was born on April 26, 1946, in Rice Lake, Wisconsin to Owen and Vera Drake. While still young, Loretta moved with her family to Portland, Oregon and she graduated from Centennial High School.
Loretta met her husband Richard at Bethel Temple Church in Portland, Oregon and were married on June 19,1965. They moved to St. Helens, Oregon to the property where they would raise their family. They had three
A mass of Christian burial will be held for Margie L (Brooks) Ebert of Deer Island, Or. At 11 a.m., Saturday, July 20, 2024, at St. Frederic’s Catholic Church, in St. Helens, OR with internment to follow at Columbia Memorial Gardens in Scappoose, Or. Margie peacefully passed away surrounded by her family on February 25, 2024, she was 86 years old.
Margie was born in Renton, Washington on July 26, 1937 to parents Dewey & Minnie (Mann) Brooks. At a young age, her family moved to St. Helens, Or. She attended McBride Elementary school and graduated from St. Helens High School in 1956. On Sept. 1, 1956 she met Lloyd Ebert at the wedding of his youngest brother
children, Daniel, Douglas, and Darrell. Loretta and Richard were members of St. Helens Assembly of God for many years and were also mem-
bers of Columbia River Four Square Church. Loretta loved to do her daily bible devotions and would spend many hours praying for family and friends. Loretta firmly believed in sharing her love for Jesus and singing hymns and songs that uplifted Christ.
Loretta was able to stay-at-home with her three sons while they were young. When Loretta returned to work, she worked for Portland General Electric at the Trojan Nuclear Power plant until its shutdown. Loretta later became a goldsmith which allowed her and Richard to open a jewelry business.
Loretta loved fishing and
Margie Lucille (Brooks) Ebert
July 26, 1937 ~ Feb. 25, 2024
Willard and they were married on July 20, 1957 at St. Frederics. They purchased land in Deer Island where they raised their eight children. Although Margie didn’t work outside the home, her career as a housewife kept
her busy raising 8 children, was no small feat and helping on the farm tending to the animals such as cattle, milk cows and chickens, their family dog and several outdoor cats. Margie loved to be resourceful, they grew a 1/2 acre garden every year that she would tend to along with canning and freezing all sorts of vegetables and also made jams and jellies from fruit and berries grew on the
Margie was a kind woman with one of the biggest hearts. She had a great love for her church, her church family, husband and children and was one of the most giving Mothers we know. She enjoyed making all sorts of hand made items for the Church Bazaar each year and for family. Margie and Lloyd
went on many fishing trips with Richard and her family over the years. For their 25th wedding anniversary Lorretta and Richard spent a week in Canada fishing for salmon.
Loretta is survived by her three children, Daniel Hopkins and wife Sandy Hopkins, Douglas Hopkins, and Darrell Hopkins; three grandchildren, Brandon (Robyn) Hopkins, Anthony Hopkins, and Shawn Hopkins; sister Sara Sue Gabel; brothers, Randall Drake and Rodney Drake; and numerous nieces and nephews. Loretta was preceded in death by her parents, Owen and Vera Drake; and husband Richard Hopkins.
loved to go dancing and she also enjoyed baking, sewing, drawing, and crafting. She was preceded in death by her husband Lloyd of 63 years; parents, Dewey & Minnie (Mann) Brooks; 4 brothers Warren, Monte, Larry & Richard and 3 sisters Patricia, Clara & Carol; son Brian; and grandson Noah. Margie was loved by so many and is survived by her children: Julie Moore, Leslie Higdon (Dave), Joyce Beckman (David), Laura Davis (John), Earl Ebert, Eugene Ebert (Heather), Allen Ebert (Brandi), 11 grandchildren and 7 great grandchildren. Donations in her name can be made to St. Frederics Church, Diabetes or Alzheimer’s Foundation. Full obituary at www.columbiafh. com.
Flying flags for the community
COURTESY PHOTO
Flags flying proudly around St. Helens.
DIVORCE $130
Complete preparation. Includes children, custody, support, property and bills division. No court appearances. Divorced in 1-5 weeks possible. 503-772-5295. www.paralegalalternatives.com legalalt@msn.com.
Veteran Car Donations
Donate your car, truck, boat, RV and more to support our veterans! Schedule a FAST, FREE vehicle pickup and receive a top tax deduction! Call Veteran Car Donations at 1-866-6959265 today!
Heritage for the Blind Today
Get a break on your taxes! Donate your car, truck, or SUV to assist the blind and visually impaired. Arrange a swift, no-cost vehicle pickup and secure a generous tax credit for 2025. Call Heritage for the Blind Today at 1-844-533-9173 today!
BCI Bath & Shower
The bathroom of your dreams in as little as 1 day.
Limited Time Offer - $1000 off or No Payments and
No Interest for 18 months for customers who qualify.
BCI Bath & Shower. Many options available. Quality materials & professional installation. Senior & Military Discounts Available. Call Today! 1-844-847-9778.
Safe Step North America’s #1 Walk-In Tub. Comprehensive lifetime warranty. Top-ofthe-line installation and service. Now featuring our FREE shower package and $1600 Off for a limited time! Call today! Financing available. Call Safe Step 1-833-3951433.
Jacuzzi Bath Remodel Can install a new, custom bath or shower in as little as one day. For a limited time, waving ALL installation costs! Additional terms apply. Subject to change and vary by dealer. (Offer ends 8/25/24.) Call 1-855-3415268.
Generac Home Standby Generator Prepare for power outages today with a Generac Home Standby Generator. Act now to re-
ceive a FREE 5-Year warranty with qualifying purchase. Call 1-877557-1912 today to schedule a free quote. It’s not just a generator. It’s a power move.
The Generac PWRcell a solar plus battery storage system. SAVE money, reduce your reliance on the grid, prepare for power outages and power your home. Full installation services available. $0 Down Financing Option. Request a FREE, no obligation, quote today. Call 1-844-989-2328.
Inogen One Portable Oxygen Concentrator May Be Covered by Medicare! Reclaim independence and mobility with the compact design and long-lasting battery of Inogen One. Free information kit! Call 855839-0752.
GoGo
Live and age your way. Get help with rides, groceries, meals and more. Memberships start as low as $1 per day. Available 24/7 nationwide. BBB Rated A+ Business. Call GoGo to
get started. 1-855383-8425.
LeafFilter
Eliminate gutter cleaning forever! LeafFilter, the most advanced debrisblocking gutter protection. Schedule a FREE LeafFilter estimate today. 20% off Entire Purchase. Plus 10% Senior & Military Discounts. Call 1-855-536-8838.
LeafGuard
Call LeafGuard and say goodbye to gutter cleaning for good. No cleaning. No leaking. No water damage. No more ladder accidents. Get LeafGuard today and be protected for life. FREE estimate. Financing available. 20% off total purchase (Restrictions may apply.) Call 1-844345-1537.
Switch and save up to $250/year on your talk, text and data No contract and no hidden fees. Unlimited talk and text with flexible data plans. Premium nationwide coverage. 100% U.S. based customer service. For more information, call 1-877-916-0803.
Get DISH Satellite TV + Internet! Free Install, Free HD-DVR Upgrade, 80,000 On-Demand Movies, Plus Limited Time Up To $600 In Gift Cards. Call Today! 1-866373-9175.
DIRECTV OVER INTERNET
Get your favorite live TV, sports
and local channels. 99% signal reliability! CHOICE Package, $84.99/ mo for 12 months. HBO Max and Premium Channels included for 3 mos (w/CHOICE Package or higher.) No annual contract, no hidden fees! Some restrictions apply. Call IVS 1-855602-2009.
Get Boost Infinite! Unlimited Talk, Text and Data For Just $25/mo! The Power Of 3 5G Networks, One Low Price! Call Today and Get The Latest iPhone Every Year On Us! 844-9553417.
Is 2024 your year? We’re here for it and here for you. Reach your goals this year with WeightWatchers. Get started with THREE months FREE, visit www. weightwatchersoffer.com/39.
Wesley Financial Group, LLC. Timeshare Cancellation Experts. Over $50,000,000 in timeshare debt and fees cancelled in 2019. Get free informational package and learn how to get rid of your timeshare! Free consultations. Over 450 positive reviews. Call 844487-0221.
Life Line
Screening Stroke and Cardiovascular disease are leading causes of death, according to the American Heart Association. Screenings can
provide peace of mind or early detection! Contact Life Line Screening to schedule your screening. Special offer - 5 screenings for just $149. Call 1-844-655-0972.
311
Announcements
Quilt on the Fence Sale
Featuring many homemade items. Presented by the Scappoose Senior Center Quilters. 7/18, 7/19 7/20 from 10 am -4pm Scappoose Middle School turn around off Hwy 30 in Scappoose
502 Help Wanted
Yard worker wanted Call 503-543-2884.
Columbia River PUD is hiring a Customer Accounts Field Representative Salary: 1st 6 mos: $31.54/hr – 5th 6 mos: $39.43/hr. Deadline: July 29, 2024 by 5:00 pm. If you are interested in becoming a part of the Columbia River PUD team, please visit our website at www. crpud.net to view and apply for open positions or call us at (503) 397-1844 to have an application packet mailed to you.
Transit Program Manager Columbia County, OR. EOE. Deadline 7/19/2024. Apply at ColumbiaCounty OR.gov.
Moving Sale! Everything must go! No reasonable offers refused. Washer/dryer, furniture, kitchen items, knick-knacks, women’s clothing and everything in between. Fri., July 12 and Sat., July 13. 8:00-4:00. 770 Tualatin Street.
Huge Garage Sale 420 Mattie St, Columbia City Sporting goods, housewares, clothing, athletic gear, shoes, road bikes and more. Fri 7/12 & Sat 7/13 9am4pm, Sun 7/14 9am-noon. Everything is priced to sell.
804 Apts Unfurnished
#2 1 bed @ McCormick Park New white vinyl windows/blinds/ paint/granite style counters/floors. Full size kitchen w/ dishwasher & eating bar, tub/shower, 2 closets, covered BBQ porch. Modern/ secure, laundry rm only steps away, Garages avail.1691 Old Portland Rd, St. Helens. 503369-1553. No pets, no move in fees. Water/sewer/garb. included. $999/mo.
808 Houses Unfurnished
#20 2 bdrm Townhouse
Police state development still at work in progress
From Page A1
Chronicle & Chief:
Since the city council denied the land use application for a police station at the Kaster Road property May 9, what steps has the city taken in
seeking a new location for the police station?
Crystal King: The City Council is currently exploring a site in the Houlton Business District.
Chronicle & Chief: What specifically are the current criteria the council is using to select a new site?
King: Sufficient space; correct land use zoning; a location with easy access and egress for police when
CROSSWORD PUZZLE
responding to emergencies; central location for speed of response; if purchasing is necessary, a price that fits the City’s available budget.
Chronicle & Chief: Whether the current designs could be used for the new police station site or not, what are the priorities for the building?
King: Sufficient space for future department growth, ADA compliance, a building that conforms to current policing best
CC24-1199
PUBLIC LIEN SALE U-STORE SELF STORAGE
Auction to be held online at Storageauctions. com Auction will run from 7/9/2024 10:00 am & end on 7/19/2024 10:00 am Unclaimed storage lockers to be sold by competitive
CC24-3004
Port Ave, Suite D L G Harris CN719 RV607 2nd Location Scappoose 53567 Columbia River Hwy. Wayne William Brown B030 Brandon Cook CY89
PUBLIC NOTICE COLUMBIA RIVER PEOPLE’S UTILITY DISTRICT
Special Board Meeting July 10, 2024 5:30 p.m. The Board of Directors of the Columbia River People’s Utility District (CRPUD) will meet in Special Session on Wednesday, July 10, 2024 at 5:30 p.m. to hold an Executive Session pursuant to ORS 192.660(2)(h) which allows the Board to consult with counsel concerning legal rights and duties regarding current litigation or litigation likely to be filed, and any other business that may come before the Board. CRPUD Board meetings are accessible to persons with disabilities. A request
CC24-3007
NOTICE OF PUBLIC LIEN SALE
practices, sufficient space for growing technology storage, private interview rooms, dedicated space for evidence storage and processing, and a building that fits within the budgeted project cost.
Chronicle & Chief: Where could the new police station best fit in the city?
King: Anywhere that the above criteria works.
Chronicle & Chief: How much has the city
ACROSS
1. Croat or Moravian, e.g.
5. Paid player
8. Not Miss or Ms.
11. First-rate
12. Mattress with memory?
13. Be of use
15. “It’s time!” signal
16. ____-de-camp
17. Like an unhealthy dog
18. *First one to circumnavigate globe, almost 20. March Madness org.
21. Bring upon 22. Orange Lavaburst drink
23. *Rita ____, first Latina to win Academy Award
26. Winter rides, in Russia
30. Brewery order
31. Unties or unbuttons
34. Nearly
35. One born to Japanese immigrants
37. Good times
38. Rheumy
39. Tel ____, Israel
40. Bequeath
42. Once known as
43. West African country
45. *Chuck ____, first to break speed of sound
estimated that a new police station will cost and how is the city preparing to fund that cost?
King: The Kaster Road location was budgeted at $12.6 million and that is the target budget for any new location. Police station construction will be funded through the public safety fee which is assessed on the City utility bill.
Chronicle & Chief: When should city residents expect to see a decision by
the city about a new site for the police station and will there be opportunity for public engagement?
King: This project is a priority of the City Council. Staff is actively working with property owners to secure a site for the project, but there is no identified decision date yet.
Follow this developing story online at thechronicleonline.com and in the Chronicle & Chief Wednesday print editions.
47. Genetic info carrier, acr.
48. City near D¸sseldorf
50. Short for Dorothea
52. *First artificial satellite (2 words)
55. Clay and silt deposit
56. Marine eagle
57. Mercantile establishment
59. Singer Piaf
60. Concert series
61. Indian nursemaid
62. Craggy peak
63. Little troublemaker
64. Solitary
DOWN
1. Give in to gravity
2. Weaver’s apparatus
3. The “I” in “The King and I”
4. Carrots or peas, slangily
5. French soldier in WWI
6. Speed gun
7. *First horror film about Damien Thorn, with The
8. Supernatural life force
9. Capital of Latvia
10. Canny
12. Han Solo’s “Millennium ____”
13. Prenatal test, for short
14. *The first one helped combat smallpox
19. Tedium 22. 120 mins. 23. #8 Down, pl.
Martini garnish 25. Pine product 26. Midterm, e.g. 27. a.k.a. Tibetan wild ass 28. Feel the same 29. Timider 32. Deadly challenge 33. Military moves
*Mount first conquered by Hillary and Norgay
10 to 12-year-old
Ewe’s cry
Half-shell delicacy
Grind with teeth
Fauna member
Erasable programmable read only memory
INDEPENDENCE DAY 2024
RUARK
JEREMY C.
Country Media, Inc.
Despite the heat, residents and visitors in St. Helens and Clatskanie celebrated Independence Day with the spirit of the July 4 holiday. In Clatskanie, hundreds lined the street leading from Clatskanie Elementary School to the city park to watch the annual Heritage Day’s Parade.
This is probably my fifty-third time watching the parade,” long-time Clatskanie resident Elsa Wooley said. “Some years, there are more log trucks and horses than other years. It’s a small-town tradition. I just love it because I see a lot of people that I know. It’s celebrating the horses, the pool, and the little things that make our hometown special.”
Wooley added that the Heritage Days celebration and the parade are a true signature for Clatskanie.
“It is representing our heritage,” she said. “We all straighten up and clean up really good for this big event snd it makes us vey very proud. Generations come back jut for the parade and to let their children experience this small-town parade.”
Food and other booths greeted folks at the city park following the parade. At night, a traditional fireworks demonstration was conducted.
St. Helens In St. Helens, the city’s
moved the Independence Day celebration to McCormick Park to honor America, its military services, and veterans. The theme of the event was “Tour of Duty,” and is a collaboration with the American Legion, VFW, Elks
From Page A1
Howell said having the rides at all is more than many fairs can offer these days.
“We feel fortunate to have a carnival,” Howell said. “A lot of them went out of business because of COVID-19, and a number of fairs no longer have carnivals.”
Daily tickets for the fair at the gate are:
• Youth $7
• Adults $13
• Seniors/Vets
$7
Online, there is a slight discount, and the prices are reduced by $1 for each of those categories. For those interested in going to the fair on multiple days, there are season passes available for:
• Youth $25
• Adults $50
• Seniors/Vets $25
For those interested in partaking in the thrill rides at the carnival, the price for “ride bracelets” is $40 at the gate and $30 online. Parking will not be free for the fair, and people should expect to pay $5 to park at the fairgrounds. There are also promotions that allow for free entrance on Wednesday the 17th and Thursday the 18th. Veterans and seniors get free admission all day on July 17 with proof of I.D., and July 18 is “Kids Day,” and youth 17 and under can get in free that day. On the final day of the fair, July 20, admission will be $5 for all. The Hwy 30 Cruisers will have their cars on display on Senior Day Wednesday, and on Kids Day this year, organizers are hiding farm animals for the kids to find, like the rubber ducks, to add a scavenger hunt-esque activity to the fun. The junior rodeo will also be on July 18, and starts at 6 p.m. Howell also said there will be an interesting exhibition offered on Saturday this year.
“On Saturday from 10-4, Lonnie Welter, a member of Homeland Security Emergency Commission, will be
conducting classes on Off the Grid Living,” Howell said.
“What to do if we have no power? The classes will be on washing clothes without electricity, survival hacks, poo and pee buckets instructions, M.R.E. packing list, survival food basics, and water purification. A month’s supply of food will be given away at the end of the day.”
The hours for each day are:
• Wednesday, July 17: 10 a.m. to 10 p.m.
• Thursday, July 18: 10 a.m. to 10 p.m.
• Friday, July 19: 10 a.m. to 12 a.m.
• Saturday, July 20: 10 a.m. to 12 a.m.
• Sunday, July 21: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Wednesday through Friday, carnival rides open at 1:00 p.m., and on Saturday, rides open at noon. Just a few of the live entertainment acts on the docket are Ventriloquist Vikki, Matt Henry, Circus Luminescence, and music from River Divide, Joe Stoddard, and the Sweetwater Band.
Rodeo details
This year’s fair and rodeo will see the return of last year’s V.I.P. seating at the rodeo and $20 V.I.P. parking for more convenient proximity. Attendees can pay $35 to reserve seating at the rodeo, separate from the general admission area. The purchase price for V.I.P. seating also includes entry to the fair.
Howell also said in addition to the V.I.P. section of bleachers, the fair has “enlarged the V.I.P. Rodeo seating, and there will be table and chairs available 8 to a table at $520 a table or $65 per person.”
The V.I.P. section includes a private Elks Lodge bar where people can purchase alcoholic drinks, as well as a B.B.Q. and or hot dog plates, available only to those with V.I.P. tickets.
Howell said they are focusing on ensuring that the grandstand doesn’t fill beyond its 1600-person capacity. This is to ensure the safety of attendees and to make emergency response in the crowd as
unobstructed as possible. The rodeo is broken up into two primary categories: the performances on Friday and Saturday night, where the number of participants is limited, and slack, where the remaining participants will compete. There will also be a junior rodeo on July 18.
Some of the events that will take place in the rodeo will be barrel racing, bareback riding, saddle bronc, bull riding, wild cow milking, tiedown roping, breakaway, team roping, and stair wrestling. Prizes will be awarded to each winner and top placers in each event.
Important notes
The annual Benefit Plant Sale has already begun, so for those looking to get an early look at the wide array of flowers and arrangements for sale, make your way to the fairgrounds to get first pick of the bunch. Proceeds from the plant sale go to supporting the needs of the aging fairgrounds and future improvements and operating costs of the fair and rodeo.
Another important notice for rodeo and 4H participants is the new guidelines for reducing the risk of spreading Avian Influenza to the animals.
The following information was published on the Columbia County Fair and Rodeo website:
On June 24, 2024, the Oregon Department of Agriculture issued emergency rules to mitigate the risk of transmission of highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) at exhibitions. The purpose of the rules is to prevent the introduction of HPAI into an exhibition, while also providing a framework to mitigate the risk of transmission between livestock, and ultimately, to people if HPAI is introduced. These rules apply only to exhibitions where “influenza susceptible animals” (lactating dairy cattle, swine, waterfowl, and other poultry) will be present.
Find more information and buy tickets at: https://www. columbiacountyfairgrounds. com.
Volunteer Coordinator Judy Thompson said.
The St. Helens event included the 10th annual Ringing of the Bells and the dedication of the Branch of Service Podiums and Flags by Gene Hester. Hester is Judge Advocate with VFW Post
PHOTOS BY JEREMY C. RUARK / COUNTRY MEDIA, INC.
American flags grace a float as it moves down the street during the Clatskanie parade.
Veterans ride a float during the Heritage Days Parade at Clatskanie.
Farmers participating in the Clatskanie parade.
A parent snaps a cellphone photo of a child drug the Clatskanie parade.
Columbia County Commissioner Margaret Magruder tossed candy to waiting children during the Heritage Days Parade.
People pose for a photo at the St. Helens Independence Day event.
Horses parade down the street during the Clatskanie celebration.
The Branch of Service Podiums at McCormick Park in St. Helens.
Veterans practice hoisting the flags just before the Branch of Ser-
vice Podiums and Flags dedicated at the St. Helens celebration.
River City Speedway season update
MIKE WEBER Chronicle & Chief Guest Article
Local competitors Austin Beaudoin, Anthony Brinster, Dick Gaboury, Lanette Phillips, Brad Korpela, Stephen Kaptur, and Bernie Lujan are each leading their respective division point standings after five events on the 13-race schedule at the Columbia County Fairgrounds motorsports facility.
The sixth race of the year is Saturday at 5 p.m., and race fans can arrive at the track when the gates open at 3 p.m.
Gaboury of Rainier and Brinster of St. Helens are codrivers of the 2012 Economy Auto Parts-sponsored Nissan
Sentra, and they’re atop the Tuner Division standings.
“The car is really fast and it’s old, but we’re still winning races out on the track with it and we have a chance to win the championship this year,” said Gaboury, 75, owner of the Nissan. “I haven’t been able to drive recently because I’ve been very busy, but Anthony is sure doing a great job while driving in most of the races.”
Gaboury drove in the May 4 season opener, and he won the main event, but then he was disqualified by CCRA officials after the post-race tech inspection. Gaboury also sponsors a 2005 Nissan Sentra that Dan McDonald of Longview, drives in the Tuner Division and he’s sec-
ond in the points standings. Beaudoin leads the Four Cylinder Division standings. The three-driver St. Helens team of Phillips, Korpela, and Al Woods are enjoying spectacular success on the quarter-mile clay oval track. The trio of drivers alternate the position in the driver’s seat of their Ross Diesel & Auto sponsored 1979 Buick Regal, and they’re actually leading the point standings in three classes. They’re in first place in the Pure Stock Division, the Sportsman Division, and the Street Stock class.
St. Helens drivers Kaptur and Lujan are co-drivers of an open-wheel style racer car and they lead the Modified Division.
Following Saturday’s race, there will be seven events remaining on Colum bia County Racing Association (CCRA) schedule that concludes Sept. 21. Events are scheduled almost every Saturday throughout the summer. Drivers will compete in classifications that include Sportsman, Four Cylinder, Tuner, Pure Stock, Street Stock, Modified and Northwest Dwarf Cars.
For updated information about the track in case of inclement weather that sometimes results in races being canceled, it’s best to call the speedway office at 503-397-6506. The speedway is located at 58892 Saulser Road in St. Helens.
Nominations for St. Helens Sports Boosters Hall of Fame open
SUBMITTED
You can nominate someone for the St. Helens Sports Booster Club’s Hall of Fame. Nominees can be made in one of four categories:
• Modern athletes. This category is for athletes who graduated from St. Helens High School four to 15 years ago that were named first- or second-team all-state in their respective sport.
• Veteran athletes. This category is for athletes who graduated from SHHS at least 15 years ago, or who have, as a member of our community, demonstrated
athletics at both St. Helens High School and St. Helens Middle School.
athletic ability warranting their consideration as a member of the Hall of Fame.
• Supporter/sponsor. This category is for individu-
als in the community who have supported, encouraged, and advanced the athletic programs of the City of St. Helens and the local schools over time.
• Teams. This category is for teams that have excelled and earned state championships at least four years before their nomination.
The Booster Club has inducted members into the Hall of Fame annually since 1983. Beginning in 2024, the Hall of Fame induction will occur every other year. You can make your nomination online at sthelensboosters.org/hall-of-fame,
or submit a nomination form to SHHS Athletic Director Ted Hirning. Nominees are due by September 30, 2024, for 2025 inductees. The Hall of Fame Induction Dinner will take place in June of 2025.
About the St. Helens Sports Booster Club
The St. Helens Sports Booster Club is a 501(c)3 organization. All of the proceeds they get through donations or initiatives like the concession stand go right back to the middle and high school to support athletics programs.
Each season, the Booster Club gives $850 to each team, through a donation they’ve named “The Coaches’ Wishlist.” These funds can go toward anything a given program needs, as long as it is going to be something that can be used in future years and the entire team benefits from it.
The St. Helens Sports Booster Club is made up of around 28-30 members, according to Tolles. While those are the actual membership numbers, Tolles said that they also enjoy participation from many volunteers who help make running sporting events, fundraisers, and the
concession stand possible.
“We’re running at about 30 members, and it’s great, but we have so many more volunteers. You don’t have to be a booster member to volunteer in the concession stand or our annual auction; you can participate in other ways,” Tolles said. Booster Club membership is paid, and there are different tiers. Paying for a Booster Club membership directly supports the athletic programs of both the middle and high schools.
Find out more at https:// www.sthelensboosters.org/ membershipackage.
Federal officials allow Oregon to offer Medicaid services to those behind bars
LYNNE TERRY
Oregon Capital Chronicle Chronicle & Chief Guest Article
Federal officials have approved Oregon’s request to offer free Medicaid services for addiction and some other services to people who are on the verge of being released from jail or prison, something that’s prohibited by federal law.
The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services
said Oregon will offer the new program, along with Illinois, Kentucky, Utah and Vermont.
They’re joining California, Massachusetts, Montana and Washington state which first piloted programs offering some Medicaid services to people about to be released.
Inmates who meet Medicaid’s low-income limits will qualify for the program 90 days before their release from jail or state or tribal prison.
They’ll be eligible for lab and radiology services along with mental health assessments and medications to treat opioid addiction and mental illness.
When people are jailed or imprisoned, they lose their Medicaid coverage, and they have to reapply once they’re out. That leads to health care gaps. Studies show that people who end up in prison or jail have higher rates than the general public of physical and mental illness, including hypertension, asthma, tuberculosis, hepatitis B and C and HIV, and higher rates of premature death from infectious and chronic diseases, drug use and suicide.
“For people involved in the justice system, ensuring a successful transition back into the community includes having the health care supports and services they need,” Health and Human Services Secretary Xavier Becerra said in a statement.
The program aims to
provide a seamless health care transition as people try to rebuild their lives in the community. Being screened for mental health issues while still behind bars is expected to help them get counseling or other treatment more quickly when they’re out.
“Fifty percent of all people in Oregon prisons have been diagnosed with a disability or mental illness, which makes uninterrupted care really important,” Amy Bacher, an Oregon Health Authority spokeswoman, said in a statement.
The people who participate will benefit from case management, which means they’ll be assessed before their release and monitored once they’re out. State officials hope to get people enrolled with a regionally based Medicaid insurer, a coordinated care organization, as soon as they’re released, something that has been a challenge in the past.
Captain Lee Eby, jail commander at Clackamas County Sheriff’s Office, said the program marks a “gigantic step” toward rehabilitating people into the community.
“I have seen the effects of our current system where the gap experienced hinders desperately needed access to care and services for those leaving incarceration to continue down their path of recovery,” Eby said. “This funding will be a huge tool for jail and prisons in helping those incarcerated receive proper discharge planning for successful reentry into the community, ensuring the continuation of care for one of our most vulnerable populations.”
Lawmakers tackle issue
Approval of the program follows passage of House Bill 4002 by the Oregon Legislature. The law directs
$211 million toward tackling addiction, including building new diversion programs for those who are charged with possessing a small amount of illegal substances. It also includes $10 million to screen addiction and to treat them with medication so that they can stabilize their lives and continue their recovery when
tion problem, according to and Medicaid Services, but or treated. This $10 million approved Medicaid program – aims to address that issue.
Democratic Rep. Pam Marsh of Ashland, who was behind the push in the Legislature to offer medication treatment for opioid use in jail, welcomed approval of the program.
“I’m thrilled with the approval of the Medicaid waiver, which will provide long-term sustainability to continue and expand opioid medication treatment in our jails,” Marsh told the Capital Chronicle. “These services are critical if we want to break the cycle of addiction, criminality, and incarceration — and to save lives in that process.”
Opioid overdoses have skyrocketed in Oregon in recent years with the spread of fentanyl, which can be fatal in tiny doses and is mixed into counterfeit opioid pills that sell on the streets for as little as a dollar. According to the Oregon Health Authority, 280 people died in Oregon from fatal opioid overdoses in 2019. That soared to about 1,050 in 2023.
The Medicaid program marks an attempt by the Biden administration to address the nationwide addiction crisis.
“Expanding access to lifesaving treatment and recovery supports for incarcerated people is a critical part of our bipartisan efforts to beat the overdose epidemic and save lives,” Dr. Rahul Gupta, director of the White House Office of National Drug Control Policy, said in a statement.
The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services said thousands of people would benefit across the newly approved programs in the five states, but it’s unclear how many will qualify in Oregon. Bacher of the Oregon Health Authority said that 60 institutions with more than 20,000 beds will qualify for the program but they have to opt in.
“We will be working closely with correctional partners to assess their readiness and support their ability to
implement if the facility and their local partners choose to do so,” Bacher said.
The cost is unclear, but the majority will come from federal coffers. The federal government pays for about 60% of Medicaid, while the state pays the rest.
The health authority aims to launch the program in 2026.
“We’ll be working on timeframes for implementation and will have a lot of work with carceral settings to be ready for this,” Bacher said in the statement.
https://oregoncapitalchronicle.com/2024/07/03/ federal-officials-allow-oregon-to-offer-medicaid-services-to-those-behind-bars/
JOIN OUR TEAM
Oregon Capital Chronicle is part of States Newsroom, a network of news bureaus supported by grants and a coalition of donors as a 501c(3) public charity. Oregon Capital Chronicle maintains editorial independence. Contact Editor Lynne Terry for questions: info@oregoncapitalchronicle.com.
Reporters
Country Media has immediate openings for Reporters to cover the news that matters to our communities.
Successful applicants will have an enthusiasm to cover enterprise journalism, civic meetings, school news, community events, and more. You’ll be writing for multimedia platforms including print, social media, and websites. If writing is your passion, this is the job for you! Positions are Full-time. We will also consider applicants for freelance work.
We offer an above average wage with paid holidays, health insurance, paid vacation, sick leave, and more!
Submit your resume and cover letter today to Executive Editor, jwarren@countrymedia.net.
JEREMY RUARK / COUNTRY MEDIA, INC. The funds raised by the booster club support
COURTESY PHOTO FROM MIKE WEBER
Lanette Phillips drives this car a 1979 Buick Regal.