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Industry options developing in St. Helens

WILL LOHRE Country Media, Inc.

The City of St. Helens is working to reignite industry in the properties vacated when Cascades Tissue Group ceased operations earlier this year.

At a recent St. Helens City Council meeting on Feb. 21, Ron Houghtelling and Craig Allen discussed the possibility of “restarting” and “restructuring” the paper mill. Former employees of the Cascades mill attended the meeting. Houghtelling said he aims to get industry jobs for workers affected by Cascades leaving.

“We wanted to show you guys that the community supports bringing that mill back online, and being able to bring these guys their jobs back,” Houghtelling told the council. “A lot of these guys are multigenerational on that site like I am, so we would like you to help us to push this project forward and bring these jobs back to this town. We’re ready to go to work.”

Allen addressed the council following Houghtelling’s statements and said one of the biggest barriers to the project is ensuring there is adequate power to get the mill back online. However, Allen echoed Houghtelling’s statements regarding the viability of the mill site to provide industry and jobs in St. Helens.

“It is a viable mill. It’s a shame that it’s in the condition that it is today, it’s a shame that it shut down. Ron wasn’t wrong when he said the mill has 100 years of life left in it,” Allen said. “It’s nice to see everybody come out and support the community like this, and support the

PHOTO

Jenny Dimsho was awarded the 2023 City of St. Helens Employee of the Year.

Jenny Dimsho recognized as Employee of the Year

See JENNY, Page A5

perion Solar with all the necessary business planning information. The city hopes that a definitive decision will be reached by Mar. 31.

Regarding the issue of power needed to support the industry projects, Walsh said it is not unique to St. Helens and that there is a regional and statewide need for more power to support industry and development.

“City of St. Helens staff have been working diligently with PGE, Columbia River PUD, the State of Oregon, Business Oregon, Columbia County, and other organizations to tackle this opportunity as soon as possible,” Walsh said. “Bringing substantial upgrades to the power grid in our area will benefit everyone in our region for decades to come. It will support the growth of large and small industry and commercial projects in our area.”

The prospect of Hyperion Solar and Project Arcadia operating at the business park would have “numerous benefits,” according to Walsh. One of the largest benefits is that it would “return and grow living wage jobs” for the community.

“It will also increase the tax base, benefitting numerous agencies, including the School District, Columbia River Fire & Rescue, the City of St. Helens, and Columbia County,” Walsh said. “It would create anchor industries that help attract other smaller industry and commercial businesses to our area. It would redefine the future of St. Helens.”

Follow this developing story at thechronicleonline.com and in the Wednesday print editions of The Columbia County Chronicle & Chief.

Improvement at Columbia River Fire & Rescue

WILL LOHRE Country Media, Inc.

Following months of turmoil at Columbia River Fire & Rescue (CRFR), members of the administration and members of the union are feeling optimistic about the developing state of the district.

There have been a variety of issues facing the district, including a budgetary crisis, a lawsuit resulting from the termination of former fire chief Joel Medina, and arbitration between command and line staff regarding a contract.

Interim Fire Chief Eric Smythe said the current state of CRFR is “delicate, but improving.”

“The relationships between our union staff and administration has continued to make favorable strives daily during the last few months,” Smythe said. “This is not an easy task, but a structured plan of building mutual trust, respect, and developing a partnership that ensures our citizens receive the stellar emergency service they have come to expect.”

St. Helens Professional Firefighters Association President Dustin King said it is an understatement “to say that the past few years have been extremely challenging for our membership, neighboring fire districts in general, and to our professional partnerships across our county and state.” However, he noted that there has been improvement over the course of the past few months.

“Working conditions at Columbia River Fire & Rescue deteriorated to such poor levels that several of our members felt they had no other option than to seek employment elsewhere to preserve their mental health and physical well-being,” King said. “Recently, we have been encouraged to see signs of an improving, cooperative relationship with current CRFR administration and Interim Fire Chief Eric Smythe.”

Labor Negotiations

One of the significant develop-

ments for the district was an agreement between the district and IAFF Local 3215 St. Helens Professional Firefighters Association on the contested contract.

The district reached a signed memorandum of agreement (MOA) with IAFF Local 3215 St. Helens Professional Firefighters Association on the issue, which was initially contested in arbitration. The arbitrator compelled the administration and the union back to the bargaining table.

Smythe said that district staff met with the union from early December through January 2024 to negotiate and “find a path forward.” The work in the district has been a result of work from “all members of CRFR, from the Board of Directors to volunteer members,” according to Smythe. An agreed-upon MOA was signed between the CRFR Board of Directors and the Firefighters Association in late January.

“This process brought the district and Union to the table to seek a meaningful resolution for the district that met the needs of our citizens while maintaining fiscal responsibility and solvency,” Smythe said. “As

one of the members of the negotiating team, I appreciate the efforts of the district staff and Union Executive Board in working closely together for the betterment of the fire district.”

King echoed Smythe’s sentiments, saying that the union and Smythe have “opened a healthy line of communication.” District and union representatives meet on a weekly and sometimes daily basis to discuss issues surrounding the district.

“We have established direct means of communication between labor and management in a more efficient manner, allowing resolution quickly to avoid it becoming a contentious issue,” Smythe said. “These meetings allow both groups to work to find common ground, speak openly, and get to the root of the matter. It is imperative that for a fire district to operate, open communication and problem-solving be at the forefront of any project, discussion, or disagreement.” King said that the new administration has sought the union’s input on operational matters, budget, and policy. This approach allows the firefighters to have a hand in making a

fire district that serves the needs of the community first, according to King. “We have a long way to go to rebuild CRFR to what it once was, but the foundation of collaboration and goodwill has the potential to serve this agency and our community well,” King said.

Other issues and a message to the community

On Aug. 17, Medina, who was terminated by the board at a meeting on Aug. 8, filed a whistleblower suit for almost $20 million against the fire district, St. Helens Professional Fire Fighters Association IAFF Local 3215, board members, and union leaders, among others.

The suit alleges that Medina was the subject of defamation, wrongful termination, retaliation, violations of the First and Fourteenth Amendments, and discrimination. Smythe said that the litigation is ongoing, and he can’t comment on the issue at this time.

To assess the depths of the financial state of CRFR, the district has engaged an audit firm to complete the audits for the fiscal years 2021-2022 and 2022-2023.

“The firm is working with the district staff to identify strengths and areas requiring improvement in the financial components of the fire district,” Smythe said. “This process will take several months to complete.”

Regarding the improving state of the district, Smythe said the district is reinstating committees, like Training and EMS, to reestablish dialogue and cooperation “where everyone has a voice that spurs improvement, tackles challenges, and maximizes opportunities for the fire district.”

“The relationships between our union staff and administration has continued to make favorable strives daily during the last few months. This is not an easy task, but a structured plan of building mutual trust, respect, and developing a partnership that

See CRFR, Page A10

WILL LOHRE / COUNTRY MEDIA, INC.

The St. Helens CRFR Station.

WILL LOHRE / COUNTRY MEDIA, INC.

Cascades Tissue announced the full closure of its St. Helens plant on Aug. 10, 2023.

RSD Superintendent to leave June 2024

will be seeking a new superintendent soon, as Joseph Hattrick announced in a letter to the community on the night of Feb. 20 that he will resign from the position in the summer.

Hattrick has been the superintendent at Rainier School District since 2020 and said that serving the community has been an “enormous honor.” Hattrick was hired as interim superintendent in July 2020 following a national search. He replaced former Superintendent Michael Carter, who left to take a position in the Lake County School District after 17 years in Rainier.

school year, on June 30, 2024. I have accepted the position of superintendent for the Ashland School District,” Hattrick wrote. “I am making this announcement as early as possible to provide the Rainier Board of Directors ample time to find a suitable replacement and with the goal of helping the next superintendent make a smooth transition.” Hattrick said that he has been grateful for the “work and commitment” of Rainier School District staff and also gave credit to the school district’s board of directors. Though he will leave at the end of the year, Hattrick

said that he’s still committed to completing “important projects” that are currently underway.

“We will continue to focus on improving student achievement through the review and possible adoption of updated Science Curriculum, assuring equitable programming for all students, continuing to explore our long-range facility planning and options for the Rainier School District, labor negotiations with our licensed and classified staff, and finalizing the 24-25 calendar and budget,” Hattrick said.

Though Hattrick will continue to fulfill his duties as superintendent through the summer, the school district must now turn its attention to finding his replacement. Hattrick said more information will be sent to the community in the near future regarding ways they can be involved in the recruitment process.

“When the end of the year finally arrives, it is my greatest hope that any legacy I leave is that of a stronger, more stable, and more equitable school system than when I arrived,” Hattrick said. “Thank you to everyone for all the guidance, good will, and support during my superintendency in Rainier.”

Follow this developing story at thechiefnews.com and in the Wednesday print editions of the Columbia County Chronicle & Chief.

Rotary Student of the Month - Jayce Graham

SUBMITTED BY ST. HELENS SCHOOL DISTRICT

The Columbia County Rotary Club and St. Helens High School (SHHS) are pleased to honor Jayce Graham as the February Rotary Student of the Month.

Jayce plays percussion in the SHHS Wind Ensemble and drum set in the SHHS Jazz Band. As a leader in the band program, other students look up to him with respect. As part of his National Honor Society service project, Jayce has been giving free private lessons on drum sets to students, helping train his replacement when he graduates this June. He was also selected this year as a member of the OMEA District 3 Honor Band.

Jayce was a captain for us on the football team, where he played as a linebacker and tight end. Jayce was named to the Cowapa All-League team at the linebacker position. He was a tremendous vocal leader and helped spearhead the culture change within the program.

Jayce is known for his

attendance, punctuality, and taking his academics seriously. He loves to engage in class no matter the topic and consistently challenges himself, his classmates, and his teachers to think critically about the world. He is a superstar in business, finance, and economics, as shown by his outstanding academic performance throughout the class.

He is well-liked by his peers and has become a great example of what it means to be a student-athlete. We are lucky and proud to have him lead the way at SHHS.

Jayce has been accepted into the Commercial Aviation program at the University of North Dakota and received their Presidential Scholarship as well.

Congratulations, Jayce!

COURTESY

Skamokawa Swamp Opera to perform

SUBMITTED BY THE CLATSKANIE FOUNDATION

As aptly put by Sydney of Oysterville: If you can’t quite wrap your head around the meaning of “swamp opera” and you are not sure how to pronounce Skamokawa, you don’t want to miss this performance.

The Skamokawa Swamp Opera is a folk band made up of Wahkiakum County musicians founded in 2013. They will perform on March 10 at 3 p.m. at Clatskanie’s Birkenfeld Theatre located at 75 S. Nehalem in Clatskanie. They are known for their vocal harmonies and varied instrumentation featuring guitar, banjo, cello, mandolin, mandocello, harmonica, and percussion. For this upcoming program they will

be focusing on songs by and about the people of the lower Columbia River, including original songs as well as creative arrangements of songs by other local artists such as Mary Garvey, Brian Mathusek and Kerrie McNally. Andrew Emlen makes music as a composer, singer, and player of many, many instruments – cello, mandocello, banjo, guitar and sometimes a Jews Harp in F#. Andrew has a way of gathering other like-minded (serious, zany, talented, learned) musicians together and making music of an infinite variety. His cohorts in the Swamp Opera are Kyleen Austin (guitarist, composer, and the opera connection), Erik Friend (multitalented percussionist, tenor, mandolin player), and Wren

Hendricks (guitar player, and singer).

Clatskanie Arts Commission Secretary and Treasurer Elsa Wooley said the show is an opportunity to support a group that’s roots are near to the community.

“It is always part of the Clatskanie Arts Commission’s mission to promote local area performers,” Wooley said. “We are so pleased to host such a great group as the Skamokawa Swamp Opera and to hear original music about our beautiful Lower Columbia Region.”

A fabulous show you won’t want to miss!

Tickets: Adults $20; Seniors (60+) and Students $18; Children $15. Tickets are available online at clatskaniearts.org or at the door the day of the concert.

JOIN OUR TEAM

Cooper Nelson is Elks Student of the Month

SUBMITTED BY

SCAPPOOSE HIGH SCHOOL

Cooper is an active student in athletics both in and out of school. He has been a member of Kim’s Taekwondo for the past 11 years and serves as an assistant instructor at the studio. In the past 11 years he has been participating in taekwondo, he has earned a second degree black belt and second place in the Idaho Taekwondo Grand Champion Tournament.

“Cooper epitomizes what it takes to be a successful student athlete. His dedication to the process of learning is clear both in the classroom and on the wrestling mat where he consistently strives to improve on a daily basis. Cooper’s intelligence is paired with an outstanding work ethic making him a great leader in our school community”, teacher and coach Nick Byrd said.

Cooper also participates in SHS wrestling, and enjoys learning from and practicing techniques with his teammates and coaches. He’s put countless hours into training, going to the gym and attending daily practices, putting in his best effort each time.

Cooper is involved in the National Honor Society at Scappoose High School as the club Treasurer. He helps lead the Mentorship committee and plans events such as the Dodgeball Tournament, helps organize the Red Cross

Blood Drive and has also participated as a donor. As one of the committee leaders, Cooper helps lead the NHS study tables after school on Wednesdays which help students receive academic support through peer tutors. “Cooper has consistently been one of the hardest working and driven students, he has a high threshold for pursuing through and mastering difficult concepts,” teacher Kevin Pinkstaff said.

In addition to planning events for the National Honor Society he also will speak at assemblies relating to events in the club, accounting for and collecting member dues, handling money that comes from

ing their individual service projects.

In his spare time Cooper enjoys lifting weights at the gym, hanging out with his friends, mountain biking, fishing, and completing eating challenges at “Don’s”. After high school he plans on earning a bachelor’s degree in Aerospace Engineering and completing an MBA to pursue a career in that field.

“Super Cooper is a mathematical phenomenon, able to calculate, exponentiate, or integrate the tallest problems in a single bound,” teacher Peter Chadwick said.

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COURTESY PHOTO FROM JOSEPH HATTRICK

Joseph Hattrick has been Superintendant with the district since June of 2020.

COURTESY PHOTO

Cooper Nelson

The

COURTESY GRAPHIC

Jayce Graham

Sturgeon poachers serve jail time and pay thousands in restitution

COURTESY PHOTO

POLICE REPORTS

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.

Rainier Police Department

February 8

• An officer assisted a parent with questions related to their child and custody issues.

• A caller wanted people to leave a residential location. The caller was referred to seek civil remedies.

February 9

• Officers responded to a motor vehicle accident on the Lewis & Clark Bridge with reported minor injuries. No citations were issued.

• An alarm was accidentally activated at a local business.

• An employee received a phone call from someone believed to be their boss. The caller requested the employee send $1800 to Bitcoin and texted a QR code to the employee. The caller was not the boss, and the call was a scam.

• A caller reported seeing a suspicious man with a backpack and a flashlight on SE 6th Street.

• Three men at the shipyard were reported as suspicious and reportedly got into a verbal altercation with the reporting party. The men were the crew of a vessel that came in earlier from Alaska. Peace was restored.

February 11

• A resident called to report a woman was at their house threatening to assault her. The woman was allegedly intoxicated and left the premises before officers arrived.

officer arrival and the woman had permission to be there.

• A two-vehicle, non-injury accident occurred on the Lewis & Clark Bridge. The parties exchanged information without incident.

February 14

• An employee was concerned that a person in a parked vehicle may be involved in illegal activities. The individual was not in the vehicle when the officer arrived. The business agreed to trespass the person from the premises when he returned.

• An officer was requested to conduct a welfare check on an individual. The person was put in contact with health care professionals and referrals were made.

• A woman reported that two women in a Tahoe attempted to lure her into their vehicle. The vehicle was last observed traveling toward Longview.

February 16

SUBMITTED BY OREGON

DEPARTMENT OF FISH AND WILDLIFE

Three men owe thousands in fines, and one served jail time after a felony conviction for poaching five oversized sturgeon fish, including one giant white sturgeon, in Scappoose Bay in 2022.

The original incident gained attention in 2022 when sportsmen fishing along the banks of Scappoose Bay noticed people fishing from a boat had caught a sturgeon but did not release it as required by law. The legal anglers reported what they saw to OSP Fish and Wildlife Troopers, who began monitoring the area. After two days of surveillance, Trooper Scott Bernardi and Senior Trooper Justin Morgan, both from the St. Helens office, approached the men where they were moored at the dock.

The subjects claimed that they had not caught any fish. However, Troopers could see two lines extending from the dock into the water.

When they pulled up the lines, they found four live sturgeon, ranging in size from five feet to more than seven feet long. All four were secured underwater so they would remain alive. While inspecting the boat, Troopers found an additional large white sturgeon, about five feet long.

Julio Duran, of Salem, pleaded guilty to take/possession of a giant white sturgeon, which is a Class C Felony, and take/possession of four oversized sturgeons, which is a Class A misdemeanor. He pleaded guilty to fishing without a license, although officials dropped charges for fishing with illegal barbed hooks.

Duran served 20 days in the Columbia County jail and owes $5,000 in restitution to ODFW, $500 to the Turn In Poachers TIP reward program, 36 months probation, and a three-year angling license suspension.

He forfeited the fishing rods and equipment used during the crime.

Jose Plascencia, of Dayton, pleaded guilty to fishing without a resident angling license. Plascencia must serve either ten days on a Columbia County work crew or 80 hours of community service and 24 months of bench probation. He must pay $750 in restitution and is suspended from fishing for three years.

Axel Guell, of St. Helens, pleaded guilty to angling without a resident license. Guell must pay $500 in restitution, serve 24 months bench probation and is suspended from fishing for three years.

Senior Trooper Justin Morgan is pleased with the dedicated effort of the Columbia County District Attorney’s Office to pursue charges and bring poachers like this to justice. “This poacher spent 20 days in jail over the holidays in hopes of changing his behavior. Luckily, the quick-thinking juvenile sportsmen were able to report what they witnessed to the Oregon State Police, through the TIP line, and we were able to apprehend this individual and release the large sturgeon back into the bay,” Morgan said.

All five sturgeon were released back into the bay alive, which is a relief to conservationists. White sturgeon, once plentiful in Oregon waterways, are a Pacific Northwest icon. Sturgeon are long-lived and revered as “living fossils” because they have remained nearly unchanged since they first evolved around 200 million years ago. White sturgeon fisheries in the lower Columbia and Willamette rivers can currently generate between 30,000 and 40,000 angler trips annually, which contribute millions in economic benefits. In recent years, lower populations of the slow-growing fish preclude taking one home for a meal. But anglers can still catch and release the massive

fish, which provides the thrill of the experience.

An 80-year-old giant sturgeon like the one Duran poached is a valued contributor to the breeding stock. Sturgeon don’t reach breeding maturity until they are about 20 years old, and about six feet long. They can live more than 100 years. Older female sturgeon can produce ten times the number of eggs as young females. Poachers who take these giants contribute to an ongoing reduction of the fishery.

Catching poachers is a collaborative effort that often begins with lawful citizens doing the right thing and reporting suspicious behavior, according to Morgan, and recently another youth reported a poaching incident that resulted in criminal citations. Morgan is proud to live in a community that values the state’s natural resources.

“These recent acts by young sportsmen to protect wildlife is a testament to values of young Columbia County residents and is a direct reflection of their parents and mentors,” Morgan said, “A game warden’s biggest asset is the public doing the right thing by reporting poaching incidents.”

The legal fishermen who reported the crime received bonus rewards of $500 each through the Turn In Poachers (TIP) Reward Program. The program offers cash rewards or hunter preference points to people who report fish and wildlife crimes that result in an arrest or citation.

Turn In Poachers campaign coordinator Yvonne Shaw states the importance of the TIP Line.

“The TIP Line is a key tool to fight poaching,” Shaw said, “People who call the TIP Line to report poaching or suspected poaching, can remain anonymous and they also can get cash rewards or hunter preference points if their tip leads to an arrest or citation.”

Community Meals is a member agency of the

• An employee was concerned about the welfare of a woman inside of the business. She was reported as yelling and cursing. When asked, the woman replied that she was just waiting for a ride.

February 10

• A caller reported that after a verbal argument, a couple took her car keys and left. The reporting party then advised that she was safe and did not want to involve the homeowner.

• A machete was turned in as found property.

February 12

• A citizen reported being assaulted outside of a local establishment. The case is pending investigation.

• A vehicle that was previously tagged as abandoned was towed.

February 13

• A caller reported that a woman locked him out of his house. The reporting party left the premises prior to

• An officer assisted a resident that had questions regarding custody exchange with their ex.

February 17

• An employee accidentally set off an alarm when closing up the business for the night.

February 18

• Officers responded to a verbal disturbance outside of a tavern. Peace was restored.

• A stalled camper was causing traffic delays on the bridge.

Arrest made in child sex abuse case

covered that Thompson had sexual contact with a minor. Investigators completed their investigation and lured Thompson to Campbell Park where he was arrested.

arrest was the result of a six-week investigation which started from a report made to the St. Helens Police Department. The investigation dis-

If people have any related information, the St. Helens Police Department would like to hear from the community. Please contact St. Helens Sergeant Matthew Smith at 503-397-1521.

This giant white sturgeon measured 88 inches long and was likely at least 80 years old. This and four other oversized sturgeon, each measuring about 60” long, survived to be released back into Scappoose Bay in 2022.

Garden Plots: Seed starting tips

Events:

March 2 Columbia County

Small Woodlands Tree Sale

New date and place. The Columbia County Small Woodlands Association has an annual tree sale in St. Helens. You can purchase a variety of trees in very small quantities. The sale this year will be on Saturday, March 2 at the Columbia County Fairgrounds in St. Helens from 8:30 a.m. - 1:30 p.m. They sell both forest tree seedlings, some native shrubs, and some ornamental trees. Get there early for the best selection. It is very well attended. This is a great opportunity to start planting a forest or trees for the home landscape.

March 7 Columbia County Beekeepers

Monthly meeting

Thursday, March 7 at 7 p.m. All are welcome to attend. Contact Linda Zahl at ColumbiaCountyOregonBeekeepers@gmail.com about the March program and for the zoom link if needed. You are welcome to attend in person at the OSU Extension Office in St. Helens.

Online Bee School

Columbia County Oregon Beekeepers will join Tualatin Valley Beekeepers Association for their online Bee School March 18, 19, and 21. Then we will have our own Field Day on April 6 or 15 depending on the weather in Trenholm. For registration contact Linda Zahl Columbiacountyoregonbeekeepers@ gmail.com

Seed Starting

Seeds are not difficult to start. If you can create an environment that provides plenty of high intensity light, you can grow excellent transplants at a fraction of the commercial cost.

If you have a greenhouse or cold frame, you won’t have to worry about added light. But if you are starting seeds inside, you will need

a waterproof seed-starting table with fluorescent shop lights with reflectors that can be lowered and raised as the plants grow. You don’t need expensive grow lights. The lights need to be set as close to the growing seedlings as possible. Two inches is not too close. This will create a strong, stocky plant.

There are two common approaches to starting seeds. Some people grow them in flats with enough space between seeds to allow them to be directly transplanted out into the garden. More commonly, seeds are sown more thickly in starting flats and then transplanted into individual pots or “cell” trays. The seedlings are transplanted after they develop their first set of true leaves. This process takes a little more time but will generally produce a stronger transplant. Seeds are often sown too early. Then they are held in pots past the point that they should be. You can plan your seeding dates by counting backwards from when you want to put transplants out. For example, it takes about two to three weeks to grow seedlings of lettuce and greens for direct transplant or three to four weeks if you move the seedling first into individual pots or cells. For cabbage and broccoli, it is four to five weeks by the first method or five to six weeks by the second. Tomatoes need five to seven weeks by the first method or six to eight weeks by the second. Peppers are slightly longer. Squash, pumpkins, cucumbers and melons should only be sown directly in individual pots and they need 10 to 21 days to transplanting. Seedlings need good air circulation and attention to watering – neither too much nor too little.

Vegetable transplants need to be hardened off by exposing them to outside temperatures, sun and wind gradually. Put them outdoors for short periods of time in indirect light and then for a few more days (for short periods) in more direct light.

When transplanting, continue to protect them from low or high temperature extremes. Bait for slugs and consider drenching the transplants with a good water-soluble fertilizer. Most of our transplants in April and May need additional heat. Floating row covers or plastic mini-greenhouses can help to keep the vegetables growing rapidly. If you are using plastic hoop structures, be sure to open them up in the morning to avoid exces-

sive heat buildup. It is easy to cook your tender seedlings if you are not paying attention.

How large a vegetable garden?

Vegetables gardens are fast and furious productions. A typical garden will have plenty of produce for fresh eating and some for preserving. Advanced gardeners look to increase the season by planting fall/winter crops in the late summer.

But vegetable gardens take time, especially in the beginning when the weeds are starting to grow. There are estimates that a thousand square foot garden (33’ x 33’) will take about two hours per week to water, weed and do other miscellaneous jobs. This does not include harvesting and planting. If you know that you will face a major weed problem (and new garden spaces often do), it is better to plant a smaller space that you can maintain than to over-extend and constantly struggle to keep the garden productive.

Many Extension publications available online

Are you putting up salsa, saving seeds, or thinking about planting kiwis? OSU has a large number of its publications available for free download. Just go to https:// catalog.extension.oregonstate. edu/. Click on publications and start exploring.

Got food safety or food preservation questions?

Food Preservation recipes and fact sheets can be accessed online at: https://extension.oregonstate.edu/food/ preservation.

Important notes

• Donate extra garden produce and/or money to the food bank, senior centers, or community meals programs. It always is greatly appreciated.

• The Extension Service offers its programs and materials equally to all people.

• The OSU Extension Office is fully open from 8 a.m.- 5 p.m.

Community Events

March 1 Blood Drive

1 p.m. - 6 p.m. at the Columbia City Community Hall, 1850 Second Street in Columbia City.

March 2 Household Hazardous Waste

8 a.m. - 2 p.m. at the Columbia County Transfer Station. For a complete list visit this link, https://www.columbiacountyor.gov/departments/ SolidWaste/household-hazardous-waste-1. For questions call, Jake Anderson at 503-397-7259.

March 5 Meet Employment Specialist Event

2 p.m. – 4 p.m. at the Columbia Learning Center, 375 S. 18th Suite A in St. Helens. Hosted by Goodwill Industries.

March 10 Skamokawa

Swamp Opera

3 p.m. - Skamokawa Swamp Opera – definitely not an opera! Presented by The Clatskanie Arts Commission, Birkenfeld Theatre, 75 S. Nehalem Street in Clatskanie. Tickets available at clatskaniearts.org.

March 21 Scappoose Got

Talent

6 p.m. at Scappoose Adventist School, 54285 Columbia River Hwy. in Scappoose.

March 23 Women’s History

Reading

1 p.m. - 3 p.m. at The Salty Siren Bookstore, 229 14th St. (behind Ash River Woodworks) in downtown Astoria. This event is free to the public and will feature three local authors: Marianne Monson, Kama O’Connor, and Deb Vanasse. Books available for purchase. Reception and signing to follow. Learn more at www.thewritersguild.org.

March 24 Quincy Grange 48th Annual Chicken Dinner

Noon - 3 p.m. at 78314 Rutter Road in Clatskanie. Traditional Sunday fried chicken dinner including dessert and beverage. Adults, $15, 6-12 year olds, $7.50, under 6 years old are free. Proceeds benefit youth programs, scholarships, and community service. Find information on Facebook or call Ellen at 503-728-2886 or Barb at 503-728-4143.

March 28 Job Fair hosted by Goodwill Industries

2 p.m. – 4 p.m. at the Scappoose Library, 52469 SE 2nd Street in Scappoose.

April 14 Close to You: The Music of the Carpenters

3 p.m. - Close to You: The Music of the Carpenters featuring a 6-piece band. Tickets available at clatskaniearts. org. Presented by The Clatskanie Arts Commission, Birkenfeld Theatre, 75 S. Nehalem Street in Clatskanie.

April 26 Updated EventSpencer Day tribute to Frank Sinatra

7:30 p.m. - Due to visa problems, Will Martin performance has been canceled and will be replaced by Spencer Day and his tribute to Frank Sinatra. Will Martin tickets will be honored for this performance. Presented by The Clatskanie Arts Commission, Birkenfeld Theatre,

75 S. Nehalem Street in Clatskanie.

May 18 Spring Sip & Shop

10 a.m. - 6 p.m. at Columbia City Hall, 1840 2nd Street in Columbia City. Free admission and can food drive donations for Columbia Pacific Food Bank. Shop over 20+ vendors, floral arrangements by Mobile Meadows, music provided by Summer Wedding Events, LLC and food and alcoholic beverages available. For more information visit the Facebook event page @ Spring Sip & Shop. Hosted by Twisted Sisters Boutique, LLC and The Watering Hole, LLC. For more information contact twistedsisters.b.llc@ gmail.com.

Ongoing 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 hang-ups. 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 503-369-0329 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 503-3975390 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 503397-3590.

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 971-7576389.

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 503338-8268.

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 event in the Community Calendar, email details with a phone number that may be published for anyone that might have questions, to chronicleclassifieds@countrymedia.net, or call 503-397-0116.

Jenifer Rebecca Dias was born on May 18, 1946 and passed away on Feb. 18, 2024. She was born and raised in Rainier, Oregon and graduated from Rainier High School in 1964. She was married in Clatskanie on May 20, 2006.

Jenifer was a Teacher’s Aide most of her career life along with being jack of all trades at the Rainier Post Office. She went to Rainier Church of God for most of her life until she found Fathers House about 4-5 years ago and loved it. She and her husband helped remodel and move the church from its old location to its newest location now. Jenifer also helped every year volunteering for

May 18, 1946 ~ Feb. 18, 2024

would make sure that every single child had something even if she had to pay for many angels off of the tree herself. She was a wonderful

wife, mother, and grandmother who was a God-fearing woman. Jenifer had a lot of love to give and it showed with every single person she came into contact with. Everyone was her “sweetheart” and she would make sure that nobody needed for anything. She is survived by her husband William Dias of Rainier, Oregon; children, Emily and David Wright of Longview, Washington, Christopher and Tanya Hearn of Longview, Washington, Stacie and Alex Harris of Longview, Washington, Billy Dias of Prescott Valley, Arizona, and Edward and Pam Carter of Prescott Valley, Arizona; siblings, Penelope Karnofski of Kelso, Washington and Elvana “Toni” Johnson of Rainier, Oregon; grand-

children, Ashley Smith, Sky Hearn, Jon Wright, Brittany Casey, Brandon Hearn, Dakota Hearn, Tristand Hearn, Stormmie Yordy, Echo Murray, Tyler Wright, Austin Smith, Chloe Harris, Alexis Harris, Addison Hearn, Ryder Hearn, and Everly Carter; great grandchildren, Easton Marsh, Andi Grasser, Kadi Smith, Mason Haugen, Rylee Smith, Landon Chum, Lincoln Casey, Lainey Casey, Liam Chum, Kamryn Murray, Callie Hearn, Blakely Hearn, Loxlee Hearn, and Luxton Hearn; and many, many people who were very close to Jenifer who she loved dearly.

A service will be held at 10 a.m. on March 1, 2024 at Fathers House Church in Longview, Washington.

InRoads Credit Union donates nearly $140,000 in community support during 2023

SUBMITTED BY INROADS CREDIT UNION

InRoads Credit Union, in partnership with their members and employees, contributed $138,853 towards 52 local charitable organizations, schools and scholarships during 2023.

“During 2023, InRoads Credit Union supported Columbia County with generous donations and community involvement,” Senior Account Executive Cailyn Tegel said. “Donations from InRoads benefitted 43 local Columbia County organizations such as: Riverside Community Outreach, Habitat for Humanity, Columbia City Community Library and Columbia Pacific Food Bank.”

and changed — that’s what drives us.”

Acts of Kindness” initiatives. Team members donated their time buying food for a local food bank, making Valentine’s Day cards for seniors, supporting volunteer firefighters in training and much more.

As a strong advocate for financial wellness in the community, InRoads channeled its resources to make a positive impact in Columbia, Washington and Multnomah counties. Specifically, $97,505 was donated to local schools, $36,348 to nonprofit organizations and $5,000 was awarded to college-bound students.

“We are more than just a credit union. We are a team of people with a mission to make a real impact in our communities,” stated Nathan Cox, President/CEO of InRoads Credit Union.

“Every year when we look back on our accomplish-

Through its innovative Team Up for Schools program, InRoads’ members were offered one of three high-school themed debit cards that would automatically contribute five cents from InRoads to the corresponding school for every debit card transaction. In 2023, the program resulted in raising $97,505 to support those local schools.

InRoads’ commitment to community well-being

About InRoads Credit Union

Proud to be a not-forprofit member-owned financial cooperative, InRoads Credit Union was established in 1938 and holds over $360

contributed $138,853 to local nonprofits, community organizations and scholarships as well as nearly $16 million in small business loans in 2023. Membership is open to anyone who lives, works, attends school, volunteers, or worships in Columbia, Clatsop, Cowlitz, Multnomah and Washington Counties, along with immediate family who are existing InRoads members. In addition to the incoming Hillsboro location, InRoads has locations in Scappoose, St. Helens and Rainier, Oregon.

Scappoose City Council accepting applications

The term expires Dec. 31.

STAFF REPORT Country Media, Inc.

The City of Scappoose is accepting applications for the position recently vacated when Megan Greisen left the council on Feb. 20. Applications are due at 4 p.m. on Mar. 22.

Interviews are scheduled to be held on April 1, 2024. Mayor Joe Backus said that if the timing is right, a councilor may be selected, with the appointment taking immediate effect.

To qualify for the position, applicants must have resided within the city limits of Scappoose for at least 12 months prior to appointment.

Jenny

Dimsho recognized as Employee of the Year

From Page A1

St. Helens to judge nominations.

The City Council consists of a mayor and six councilors elected from the City at large who are residents of the City. The council meetings are on the first and third Mondays of each month.

Interest forms are available online at http://www. scappoose.gov or at Scappoose City Hall located at 33568 East Columbia Avenue. If people have any questions, contact Susan M. Reeves, City Recorder, at (503) 543-7146, ext. 224. Mail, drop off, email (sreeves@scappoose.gov) or fax (503) 543-7182 completed Citizens Interest Form by 4 p.m. on March 22.

the relevant stakeholders, including our City Council, before applying for a grant,” Dimsho said. “Sometimes grantors require a presentation to the review board before decisions are made. The excitement among staff at City Hall the day we are notified of securing a grant is easily one of the best parts of my job!”

The panel was asked to set aside all bias and judge the nominees solely based on the nominations received, emphasizing the quality of the nomination and employee rather than the quantity of nominations. The city announced the award on Feb. 16.

About Jenny Dimsho

Project,” Dimsho said.

About the award

Dimsho began working with the city in 2013 through the Resource Assistance for Rural Environments (RARE) AmeriCorps Program as a Parks and Trails Project Manager.

The city then hired Dimsho in Dec. 2014 as an Assistant Planner. In 2017, she was promoted to Associ-

ate Planner. She became the Associate Planner and Community Development Project Manager in 2021. While working for the city, Dimsho has spearheaded the application process for millions in grant money. In 2023 alone, she successfully helped the city acquire approximately $3 million in grant funds, which will be used to address sanitary sewer deficiencies, plan for an off-street trail between St. Helens and Scappoose, and build an accessible portion of the path for the Riverwalk Project. Dimsho said that the process of securing grants can vary greatly from project to project. Dimsho said that during the application process, she involves all relevant stakeholders in the preparation of the various grant materials, including the project narrative, budget, plans, and timeline.

“It is very typical that a project involves partnership among multiple departments, so my first step is to confirm interest and priorities from

Dimsho said that the city has been “incredibly successful” over the past year in securing large grants for various projects. Dimsho was also recognized for her consistent teamwork, problem-solving, initiative, and investment in the quality of her work, according to the release. Going forward, Dimsho wants to ensure that the city successfully manages the projects for which grants have been secured.

“Specifically for me, this includes managing the Riverwalk Project in Columbia View Park, the Economic Opportunities Analysis update, and the St. Helens Scappoose Trail Refinement

The St. Helens Employee of the Year program was implemented in 2013. An employee of the year is someone who consistently exemplifies behaviors that reflect favorably on the city. They are an employee who goes above and beyond on a regular basis; someone who goes the extra mile to help customers, both internally and externally; responds to inquiries in an efficient and timely manner; regularly participates in employee-related events; puts the city’s interests and the interests of their coworkers above their own; has an exemplary attendance record; behaves off duty in a manner that reflects positively on the City since City employees are public officials even outside work; has a positive attitude no matter the circumstances; and is noticed by people in and out of the organization.

Jenifer Rebecca Dias

COURTESY PHOTO

InRoads Credit Union staff serving lunch at the St. Helens Senior Center.

Rickreall Gun

Show

Saturday, March 9th, 9am-5pm.

Sunday, March 10th, 9am-3pm.

Admission $8.00.

Polk County Fairgrounds. 520 S. Pacific Hwy. W., Rickreall.

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.

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.

YMT Vacations plans Alaska, Europe, Hawaii plus dozens of other popular trips! Starting at $1649 per person (double occupancy req’d.) YMT Vacations plans everything, leaving you to relax and enjoy. Call 1-877-230-

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Eliminate gutter cleaning forever! LeafFilter, the most advanced debris-blocking gutter protection. Schedule a FREE LeafFilter estimate today. 15% off Entire Purchase. 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 1-844-345-1537.

Generac Home Standby Generator

Prepare for power outages today with a Generac Home Standby Generator. Act now to receive a FREE 7-Year warranty with qualifying purchase* Call 1-877-557-1912 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 1-844989-2328.

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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 855-839-0752.

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.

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! 1-844-8479778.

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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 1-844655-0972.

Make a tax-savvy move this holiday season and year-end!

Donate your car, truck, boat, RV, and more to champion our veterans. Arrange a swift, nocost vehicle pickup and secure a generous year-end tax deduction. Call Veteran Car Donations at 1-866-695-9265 today!

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301

Health & Nutrition

Alcoholics Anonymous Info-line, (503) 366-0667 www.pdxaa.org

502

Help Wanted

City of St. Helens is hiring Police Officer Two (2) Positions. Regular Full-Time. Starting at $6,514/ month. Excellent Benefits Package. Apply online at www.sthelensoregon.gov. Open Until Filled. Equal Opportunity Employer.

We have openings for classroom specialists To serve students at Quest Academy in Longview, WA. 32 hrs/wk, school year schedule.$22.54-$27.42 full hourly range. Offers are made at the beginning of the range. Great benefits and retirement. Apply today: https://www. schooljob- s.com/ careers/- esd112/ jobs/4084484

Join our team at Columbia County Habitat for Humanity As Project Coordinator, you will play a vital role in engaging volunteers to create affordable housing solutions. Working closely with the Construction Manager you will lead volunteer

teams, ensure adherence to safety standards, and manage repair projects, contributing to the growth and impact of our organization. Full Job description at habi tatcolumbiacounty. org.

The Rainier Cemetery’s District is looking for an office person (Approximately 2530 hours per week). Must be able to pass a background check and drug test, have a valid driver’s license.

Duties are, but not limited to; sell and locate plots, plan and schedule burials, record keeping, answer phones, meet with families and work closely with the Sexton. Skills required for this position are, but not limited to; STRONG Excel and Word, data entry, bookkeeping, attention to detail and ability to work independently. Please email your resume to: office@ rainiercemeterydis trict.com. Please send your resume to: Rainier Cemetery District, 24952 Alston Road, Rainier, Oregon 97048. If you have any questions, please call 503-556-9697

618

Domestic Autos

1962 Pontiac Tempest Lemans convertible White exterior, blue interior and top, bucket seats, 8 track stereo. $20,000 Call Don 503-869-6439 for a

viewing and more information.

702 Garage Sales Rainier Community Church of God Basement Sale 3/1 & 3/2 from 9

TS No. OR08000158-23-1 APN 24732 TO No 230490730-OR-MSI TRUSTEE’S NOTICE OF SALE

default complained of in the Notice of Default by tendering the performance required under the obligation or Trust Deed, at any time prior to five days before the date last set for sale. Without limiting the Trustee’s disclaimer of representations or warranties, Oregon law requires the Trustee to state in this notice that some residential property sold at a Trustee’s sale may have been used in manufacturing methamphetamines, the chemical components of which are known to be toxic. Prospective purchasers of residential property should be aware of this potential danger before deciding to place a bid for this property at the Trustee’s sale. In construing this notice, the masculine gender

includes the feminine and the neuter, the singular includes plural, the word “Grantor” includes any successor in interest to the Grantor as well as any other persons owing an obligation, the performance of which is secured by said Trust Deed, the words “Trustee” and “Beneficiary” includes their respective successors in interest, if any.

Dated: 1/25/2024 By: Nathan F. Smith, Esq., OSB #120112

Successor Trustee Malcolm & Cisneros, A Law Corporation Attention: Nathan F. Smith, Esq., OSB #120112 c/o TRUSTEE CORPS 17100 Gillette Ave, Irvine, CA 92614 949-252-8300

Order Number 99661, Pub Dates: 2/7/2024, 2/14/2024, 2/21/2024, 2/28/2024,

CC24-1054

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING

NOTICE IS HEREBY

GIVEN that a public hearing will be held before the City of St. Helens Planning Commission on Tuesday, March

12, 2024 at or after 6:30 PM in the City Council Chambers, located in the City Hall building at 265 Strand Street, St. Helens, OR. Access into City Hall for this hearing will be from the plaza side entrance. Zoom will also be available to participate.

Virtual access information to join the hearing will be available on the applicable agenda. Agendas can be found on the City’s website: https://www.sthelensoregon. gov/meetings. The purpose of this hearing is to consider an application as follows:

File No: Variance V.2.24 and V.3.24 Applicant: 1771 Columbia Boulevard, LLC

Request: Variances to allow a zero-foot side yard (setback) to allow two duplexes (one on each lot) to be attached at the property line Location: 475 N. 12th Street; Lots 22 and 23, Block 5 Railroad Addition to St. Helens, which abut N. 13th Street

Map No: 5N1W-33DC-8700

Testimony from the public in both oral or written form

CC24-1055

is invited. The hearing will be conducted in accordance with those procedures found in the City Development Code (SHMC Title 17) Chapter 17.24 and any rules of procedure adopted by the City Council. The Planning Commission is authorized to approve, deny, or approve this application with conditions, based on the following criteria: SHMC 17.108.050(1) Failure to raise an issue, including constitutional or other issues relating to any proposed conditions of approval, in this hearing, in person, or by letter, or failure to raise an issue accompanied by statements or evidence sufficient to afford the approving authority an opportunity to respond to the issue precludes appeal to the applicable appellate jurisdiction (e.g., the Land Use Board of Appeals, LUBA) on that issue, and precludes an action for damages in circuit court. The application file is located at City Hall (265 Strand Street, St. Helens, OR) and all documents in the file are available for inspection. A copy of the staff report will be available for review at least seven (7)

calendar days prior to the hearing. There is no cost to inspect the file or staff report; copies are available at a reasonable cost. The report for this application will also be available on the City’s website at https://www. sthelensoregon.gov/meetings.

Questions should be directed to the City Planning Department by phone: 503-3976272, e-mail: jgraichen@ sthelensoregon.gov, mail: 265 Strand Street, St. Helens, OR 97051, or in person at City Hall. The meeting location is accessible to persons with disabilities. A request for an interpreter for the hearing impaired or for other accommodations for persons with disabilities should be made at least 48 hours before the meeting to City Hall at 503-397-6272. We cannot accept electronic testimony via hard drive or other external device at the public hearing due to potential risks to the city’s network. If you plan on submitting electronic testimony, presentations, etc., please coordinate this with staff in advance. Any written testimony provided at the public hearing should be in hard copy form.

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING

NOTICE IS HEREBY

GIVEN that a public hearing will be held before the City of St. Helens Planning Commission on Tuesday, March 12, 2024 at or after 7:00 PM in the City Council Chambers, located in the City Hall building at 265 Strand Street, St. Helens, OR. Access into City Hall for this hearing will be from the plaza side entrance. Zoom will also be available to participate. Virtual access information to join the hearing will be available on the applicable agenda.

Agendas can be found on the City’s website: https://www. sthelensoregon.gov/meetings.

The purpose of this hearing is to consider an application as follows: File No: Appeal

AP.1.24 of Partition, PT.1.24 and Lot Line Adjustment, LLA.1.24 Applicant: Daryl Tinney (appellant) Request: Appeal of administrative approval lot line adjustment and 3-parcel partition

Location: 80 S. 21st Street Map No: 4N1W-4CA-7200

Testimony from the public in both oral or written form is invited. The hearing will be conducted in accordance with those procedures found in the City Development

CC24-1050

Code (SHMC Title 17)

Chapter 17.24 and any rules of procedure adopted by the City Council. The Planning Commission is authorized to approve, deny, or approve this application with conditions, based on the following criteria: SHMC 17.140.040 – Partition approval criteria SHMC 17.140.050 – Special provisions for parcels created by through the partition process SHMC 17.140.060 –Lot line adjustment approval criteria. Failure to raise an issue, including constitutional or other issues relating to any proposed conditions of approval, in this hearing, in person, or by letter, or failure to raise an issue accompanied by statements or evidence sufficient to afford the approving authority an opportunity to respond to the issue precludes appeal to the applicable appellate jurisdiction (e.g., the Land Use Board of Appeals, LUBA) on that issue, and precludes an action for damages in circuit court. The application file is located at City Hall (265 Strand Street, St. Helens, OR) and all documents in the file are available for inspection. A copy of the staff report will be available

for review at least seven (7) calendar days prior to the hearing. There is no cost to inspect the file or staff report; copies are available at a reasonable cost. The report for this application will also be available on the City’s website at https://www. sthelensoregon.gov/meetings. Questions should be directed to the City Planning Department by phone: 503-3976272, e-mail: jgraichen@ sthelensoregon.gov, mail: 265 Strand Street, St. Helens, OR 97051, or in person at City Hall. The meeting location is accessible to persons with disabilities. A request for an interpreter for the hearing impaired or for other accommodations for persons with disabilities should be made at least 48 hours before the meeting to City Hall at 503-397-6272. We cannot accept electronic testimony via hard drive or other external device at the public hearing due to potential risks to the city’s network. If you plan on submitting electronic testimony, presentations, etc., please coordinate this with staff in advance. Any written testimony provided at the public hearing should be in hard copy form.

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING

NOTICE IS HEREBY

GIVEN that a public hearing will be held before the City of St. Helens Planning Commission on Tuesday, March 12, 2024, at or after 6:00 PM in the City Council Chambers, located in the City Hall building at 265 Strand Street, St. Helens, OR. Access into City Hall for this hearing will be from the plaza side entrance. Zoom will also be available to participate. Virtual access information to join the hearing will be available on the applicable agenda. Agendas can be found on the City’s website: https://www.sthelensoregon. gov/meetings. The purpose of this hearing is to consider an application as follows:

File No: Historic Resource Review HRR.1.24 Applicant: Huck Wilken Request: Alteration of a designated landmark including window replacements, exterior fire escape repair, and a new mechanical unit Location: 175 S. 1st Street Map No: 4N1W-3BA-3600 Testimony from the public in both oral or written form is invited. The hearing will be conducted in accordance with those

CC24-1057

procedures found in the City Development Code (SHMC Title 17) Chapter 17.24 and any rules of procedure adopted by the City Council. The Planning Commission is authorized to approve, deny, or approve this application with conditions, based on the following criteria: SHMC.17.36.040(3) Criteria for Alteration Failure to raise an issue, including constitutional or other issues relating to any proposed conditions of approval, in this hearing, in person, or by letter, or failure to raise an issue accompanied by statements or evidence sufficient to afford the approving authority an opportunity to respond to the issue precludes appeal to the applicable appellate jurisdiction (e.g., the Land Use Board of Appeals, LUBA) on that issue, and precludes an action for damages in circuit court. The application file is located at City Hall (265 Strand Street, St. Helens, OR) and all documents in the file are available for inspection. A copy of the staff report will be available for review at least seven (7) calendar days prior to the

hearing. There is no cost to inspect the file or staff report; copies are available at a reasonable cost. The report for this application will also be available on the City’s website at https://www. sthelensoregon.gov/meetings. Questions should be directed to the City Planning Department by phone: 503397-6272, e-mail: jdimsho@ sthelensoregon.gov, mail: 265 Strand Street, St. Helens, OR 97051, or in person at City Hall. The meeting location is accessible to persons with disabilities. A request for an interpreter for the hearing impaired or for other accommodations for persons with disabilities should be made at least 48 hours before the meeting to City Hall at 503-397-6272. We cannot accept electronic testimony via hard drive or other external device at the public hearing due to potential risks to the city’s network. If you plan on submitting electronic testimony, presentations, etc., please coordinate this with staff in advance. Any written testimony provided at the public hearing should be in hard copy form.

NOTICE OF COUNCIL MEETING

The Clatskanie City Council will meet on Wednesday, March 6th, 2024, at 7:00 p.m. in the Council Chambers of City Hall in the Clatskanie Cultural Center, 75 South Nehalem St. (2nd floor). Agenda items include but are not limited to: approval of the minutes of the February

7th, 2024 regular meeting, a discussion about law enforcement staffing and a discussion on the City’s fee schedule. An updated agenda will be available at City Hall by March 1st, 2024. Access to the meeting on ZOOM will be posted on the city website, www. cityofclatskanie.com. Please

CC24-1058

call City Hall at least 48 hours in advance if you need assistance. The Council will also conduct an Executive Session after the meeting. The session is being held pursuant to ORS 192.660 (2) (d), to conduct deliberations with a person designated to carry on labor negotiations on behalf of the city.

CC24-1037

BEFORE THE BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS FOR COLUMBIA COUNTY, OREGON

In the Matter of the Proposed Vacation of a Portion of Mayger Fill Road, at the Old Fire Hall. NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING (PUBLICATION) TO: ALL INTERESTED PERSONS

1) Notice is hereby given that the Board of County Commissioners will hold a public hearing on March 20, 2024, at or after 10:00 a.m. in the Commissioners’ Meeting Room, Room 310, Columbia County Courthouse, 230 Strand, St. Helens, Oregon. 2) The purpose of the hearing is for the Board to consider the proposed 50-foot vacation of right-of-way on Mayger Fill Road. 3) For more information about the road vacation process, please

CC24-1044

contact Michael Russell, Public Works Director at michael.russell@columbiacountyor.gov or by phone at 503- 397-7215. 4) The hearing is open to the public and all interested persons may appear and be heard. Written comments on this issue can be submitted via email to Jacyn.normine@ columbiacountyor.gov or you can send comments via U.S. Mail to Columbia County, Board of Commissioners c/o Jacyn Normine, 230 Strand Street, St. Helens, OR 97051 prior to 5pm on March 14, 2024. 5) You may participate in this hearing in person or virtually. To attend virtually go to https://global.gotomeeting.com/join/357054141

or call United States (Toll Free): 1 866 899 4679. The meeting access code is: 357-054-141. The Board of Commissioners reserves the right to continue the hearing to another date and time. If the hearing is continued, no further public notice will be provided. 6) The location of the hearing is accessible for the disabled. If you need any special accommodations to attend or participate at this hearing, please call the Board of County Commissioners’ Office at 503-397-4322 at least two (2) days in advance. 7) The proceeding will be held pursuant to the provisions of ORS 368.326 to 368.366.

DATED this 5th day of February 2024.

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE STATE OF OREGON FOR THE COUNTY OF COLUMBIA PROBATE DEPARTMENT

In the Matter of the Estate of BETTY J. LANEY, Deceased. No. 20PB02574 Notice to Interested Persons Notice is hereby given that TERRY LANEY 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: February

14, 2024. Date of second published: February 21, 2024. Date of final publication: February 28, 2024. TERRY LANEY c/o VanNatta, Petersen & Anderson, Attorneys at Law P.O. Box 748, St. Helens, Oregon 97051. Attorneys: VanNatta, Petersen & Anderson, Attorneys at Law, P.O. Box 748, St. Helens, Oregon 97051, Telephone: (503) 397-4091.

BEFORE THE BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS FOR COLUMBIA COUNTY, OREGON NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING

of County Commissioners to jacyn.normine@ columbiacountyor.gov prior to 5:00 p.m. on March 12, 2024. The Columbia County Board of Commissioners is the final local decision-maker for all County Plan amendments. Applicable decision criteria are contained in ORS 197.175, ORS 197.610, ORS 197.797 and ORS 203.035; Columbia County Zoning Ordinance Sections 1606 and 1607. and any other statute or ordinance determined to apply. The specific criteria applicable to this request is listed and evaluated in the staff report. This hearing will be held in accordance with the provisions of the Zoning Ordinance. For more infor-

mation contact planning@ columbiacountyor.gov; or phone 503-397-1501. A copy of the application, all documents and evidence relied upon by the applicant, and the staff report will be available for at https://www.columbiacountyor.gov/Hearings at least 7 days prior to this hearing. Written comments on the issue can be submitted via email to Jacyn.normine@ columbiacountyor.gov or you can send comments via U.S. Mail to Columbia County, Board of Commissioners c/o Jacyn Normine, 230 Strand Street, St. Helens, OR 97051. You may participate in this hearing in person or virtually. To attend virtually go to https://global.gotomeeting. com/join/357054141 or call United States (Toll Free): 1 866 899 4679. The meeting access code is: 357-054-141. The Board of Commissioners reserves the right to continue the hearing to another date and time. If the hearing is continued, no further public notice will be provided.

as document 2021-012114.

TRUSTEE: The Successor Trustee is Miles D. Monson and the mailing address of the Successor Trustee is: Miles D. Monson, “TRUSTEE”, Monson Law Office P.C., 1865 NW 169th Place, Suite 208, Beaverton, Oregon 97006. The Trust Deed covers the following described real property (“Property”): See Exhibit A attached hereto. Grantor’s loan obligation is more than 120 days delinquent. The default for which foreclosure is made

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is: The Grantor’s failure to pay when due the following sums: Monthly installments of $313.02 beginning February 20, 2022, continuing through the installment due September 20, 2023, plus miscellaneous charges of $672.90. The sum owing on the obligation that the Trust Deed secures (“Obligation”) is: $30,132.06, together with interest of $4,017.84 through October 9, 2023, plus interest on the sum of $30,132.06 at the rate of 7.75 percent per annum from and including October 10, 2023, until paid, together with Trustee’s fees, attorney’s fees, foreclosure costs and any sums advanced by the Beneficiary pursuant to the Trust Deed. The Property will be sold to satisfy the Obligation. The date, time and place of the sale is: Date: April 2, 2024 Time: 11:00 A.M. Place: COLUMBIA COUNTY COURTHOUSE, MAIN ENTRANCE, 230 STRAND STREET, CITY OF ST. HELENS, COUNTY OF COLUMBIA AND STATE OF OREGON.

Without limiting the trustee’s disclaimer of representations or warranties, Oregon law requires the trustee to state in this notice that some residential property sold at a trustee’s sale may have been used in manufacturing methamphetamines, the chemical components of which are

known to be toxic. Prospective purchasers of residential property should be aware of this potential danger before deciding to place a bid for this property at the trustee’s sale. RIGHT TO CURE

The right exists under ORS 86.778 to have this foreclosure proceeding dismissed and the Trust Deed reinstated by doing all of the following at any time that is not later than five days before the date last set for the sale:

(1) Paying to the Beneficiary the entire amount then due (other than such portion as would not then be due, had no default occurred); and

(2) Curing any other default complained of herein that is capable of being cured by tendering the performance required under the Trust Deed; and (3) Paying all costs and expenses actually incurred in enforcing the Obligation and Trust Deed, together with Trustee’s and attorney’s fees not exceeding the amounts provided by ORS 86.778. In construing this notice, the masculine gender includes the feminine and the neuter, the singular includes the plural, the word “Grantor” includes any successor in interest to the Grantor as well as any other person owing an obligation, the performance of which is secured by the Trust Deed, and the words “Trustee” and

“Beneficiary” include their respective successors in interest, if any. Bankruptcy Information: The personal liability of the grantor to pay the debt owed to Beneficiary may be discharged in the grantor’s bankruptcy, however, the Trust Deed lien against the real property remains in existence and is in full force and effect. Beneficiary is not seeking to enforce the debt obligation as a personal liability of the grantor and is merely foreclosing its lien which will not be affected by any bankruptcy discharge. Any reference to “Debt” or “Obligation” refers to the lien indebtedness. We are a debt collector attempting to collect a debt and any information we obtain will be used for that purpose. Cashier’s checks for the foreclosure sale must be made payable to Miles Monson, Trustee. DATED: November 6, 2023 /s/ Miles D. Monson, Miles D. Monson, Successor Trustee, 1865 NW 169th Place, Suite 208, Beaverton, Oregon 97006, (503) 828-1820. EXHIBIT

A LEGAL DESCRIPTION

Parcel 1: Beginning at a point which is North 0°29’ East, 393.77 feet and South 89°31’ East, 90.12 feet from the Southwest corner of Tract 51, A Holaday Orchard Tracts as per plat on file and of record in the Clerk’s

NOTICE OF ANNUAL MEETING OF THE LANDOWNERS OF THE BEAVER DRAINAGE IMPROVEMENT COMPANY, INC.

Office of Columbia County, Oregon; thence South 89°31’ East, a distance of 109.88 feet: thence North 0°29’ East and parallel to the West line of said Tract, a distance of 198.24 feet to the Southerly right of way of the County Road; thence following said right of way South 76°13’ West, a distance of 53.52 feet, thence North 61°04’ West, a distance of 65.98 feet; thence leaving said right of way South 0°29’ West, a distance of 216.48 feet to the point of beginning. EXCEPTING THEREFROM any portion lying within the tract conveyed to Lynn C. Spencer et ux by deed recorded June 14, 1983 in Book 247, page 535, Deed Records of Columbia County, Oregon. Parcel 2: Beginning at a point on the West line of Tract 51, of A. Holaday Orchard Tracts, Columbia County, Oregon, as per plat on file and of record in the Clerk’s Office of Columbia County, Oregon, which is North 0°29’ East, 393.77 feet from the Southwest corner thereof; thence South 89°31’ East, a distance of 90.12 feet to the Southwest corner of the Jack F. Cleghorn et ux tract as described in deed recorded May 27, 1971 in Book 181, page 741, Deed Records of Columbia County, Oregon; thence along the West line

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NOTICE OF

of said Cleghorn tract, North 0°29’ East, a distance 216.48 feet to the Southerly right of way line of the County Road; thence North 61°04’ West, along said right of way, a distance of 102.5 feet, to the West line of said Tract 51; thence South 0°29’ West, along said West line a distance of 265.31 feet to the point of beginning. Parcel 3: Beginning at a point which is North 0°29’ East, 392.00 feet from the Southwest Corner of Tract 51 of A. Holaday Orchard Tracts, in Section 11, Township 3 North, Range 2 West, Willamette Meridian, Columbia County, Oregon; thence South 88°18’ East, a distance of 200.05 feet; thence North 0°29’ East, a distance of 6.00 feet to the Southeast corner of the Dale Lammers et ux tract as recorded in Book 229, page 229, Deed Records of Columbia County, Oregon; thence North 89°31’ West, along the South line of said Lammers tract, a distance of 200.00 feet to the West line of said Tract 51; thence South 0°29’ West, a distance of 1.77 feet to the point of beginning. EXCEPTING, RESERVING AND SAVING any portion thereof lying within that tract conveyed by deed recorded June 14,1983 in Book 247, page 535, Deed Records of Columbia County, Oregon.

LAST WEEK’S CROSSWORD

Columbia Pacific CCO awards $363,524 to nonprofits in Columbia County

Columbia Pacific CCO announced that in 2023, it approved $721,229 in grant funding to be awarded to more than a dozen nonprofit, community-based organizations in Columbia, Clatsop, and Tillamook counties. Of that, $363,524 was awarded to nonprofits serving Columbia County.

The grants will support programs and initiatives that align with the communityidentified priorities of Columbia Pacific’s 2020-2024 Regional Health Improvement Plan. The priorities include community resilience and trauma-informed care, chronic disease prevention, and access to primary care, behavioral health care, and social-safety-net programs addressing food insecurity and other local challenges.

“Since the start of our current Regional Health Improvement Plan, Columbia Pacific has invested millions in the plan’s focus areas to

improve the health of our members and the wider communities we serve,” director of community health partnerships Nancy Knopf said. “We are honored to be able to listen to community voices and act on what our communities have told us they need most.”

The largest grant ($201,024) was awarded to Amani Center in St. Helens, where children who are or may be victims of abuse, neglect, or witness to violence receive forensic evaluations and support services in a child-friendly, developmentally appropriate, traumainformed setting.

Amani Center will use the funding to start a mental health program providing trauma-focused therapeutic interventions, counseling, case management, expert witness and court testimony for crime-impacted children, and coordination with investigative partners. Program staff will include bilingual mental health providers and victim-advocate community

health workers.

“The launch of our Child Advocacy Mental Health Services program will more than double the availability of trauma-focused therapeutic interventions in our community,” Amani Center Executive Director Amelia Kercher said.

“Using evidence-based intervention models, we can help children and families heal and go on to lead healthier lives,” she added. “The program will help families get timely access to services and, being integrated with our assessment team, reduce the burden on children and caregivers to navigate multiple systems or tell their story multiple times.”

Columbia Pacific also awarded grants (totaling $102,500) to Columbia Pacific Food Bank in St. Helens, Turning Point Community Service Center in Clatskanie, and HOPE of Rainier, organizations that play a vital role in addressing food insecurity in the geographically diverse and

relatively isolated communities of Columbia County.

• Columbia Pacific Food Bank plans to use its $36,250 grant to provide greater access to and delivery of fresh produce to organizations serving low-income residents. The regional food bank distributes more than 16 tons of food weekly through its community partners, including food pantries, community meal programs, senior centers, children’s programs, and domestic violence centers.

• Turning Point plans to use its $36,250 capacitybuilding grant to meet the higher demand for food assistance among children and families in Clatskanie. The grant will fund food boxes, fresh produce, and foodfilled weekend backpacks for students at local schools, as well as the purchase of a larger cooler/freezer for food storage.

• HOPE of Rainier plans to use its $30,000 grant to serve the growing number of

community members struggling to feed their families. In addition to distributing food boxes, the organization will partner with the local school district to provide students with backpacks containing snacks and breakfast food, helping to fill a gap during weekends and summer breaks when school meals are not available.

Columbia Pacific also awarded:

• A $25,000 grant to EngAGE Northwest, which partners with affordable housing developers to provide residents with free onsite arts, wellness, lifelong learning, and intergenerational programs. The organization plans to use the funding to enhance the services it provides to residents of Broadleaf Arbor, an affordable housing community in St. Helens.

• A $25,000 grant to Riverside Community Outreach of St. Helens, which serves vulnerable children and

supports families impacted by foster care in Columbia, Clatsop, and Tillamook counties. The organization plans to use the funding to enhance its Fostering Success program. The outreach program focuses on keeping families intact, supporting the recruitment and retention of foster parents, reunifying families, and helping fill financial gaps for foster parents.

• A $10,000 grant to Community Meals of Columbia County, a volunteerrun program that serves free meals out of the First Evangelical Lutheran Church in St. Helens. The program paused its meal service for nearly three years during the pandemic. The grant will help it build back to serving more than 125 meals every Tuesday.

For more information about Columbia Pacific’s community grant programs visit: https://www.colpachealth.org/for-partners/community-grant-programs.

Governors, tribes ratify Columbia River Basin pact

fighting.

The governors, tribal leaders and a handful of administration officials held a White House signing ceremony Friday, Feb. 23, though the deal has been in effect since the parties signed a memorandum of agreement in December.

The

the Columbia River Basin.

“This is a happy moment.

But just the beginning.”

Tina Kotek, Oregon Governor

The agreement, which was announced in December and resulted from years of negotiation among the states, tribes in the region, environmental groups and federal agencies, established a path to reviving the area’s salmon and steelhead populations and called for a 10-year pause in legal

The agreement was a necessary condition required under treaties with tribes to address the ailing fish populations and to restore the health of the river basin, but it marked the beginning of a long process, not the end, administration representatives and others said Friday.

“There’s much to do in order to live up to our commitments and to live up to the president’s memorandum of agreement,” White House Council on Environmental Quality Chair Brenda Mallory said. “But I think the partnership that we have worked to develop will ensure that we are able to be successful.”

Oregon Gov. Tina Kotek called on the federal government, tribes and states who are parties to the deal to “stay true to the framework” of the compact. Reaching the agreement was a major milestone, she said, but more work would be

CROSSWORD PUZZLE

Washington Gov. Jay Inslee thanked tribal members for acting “as a guardian for the salmon.”

He said the Columbia River was significant to Native and non-Native residents of his state and called for making the river basin’s health a continued priority.

“This is personal with me and 8 million Washingtonians,” he said. “That is the artery of our state. It needs to be brought to health.” The agreement remains more controversial, though, in more rural and Republican areas of the state.

needed to follow through on the commitments outlined in the deal.

“This is a happy moment,” Kotek said. “But just the beginning.”

Commitment to tribes

Part of the agreement is meant to address federal commitments to tribes — the Confederated Tribes and Bands of the Yakama Nation, the Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation, the Confederated Tribes of the Warm Springs Reservation of Oregon and the Nez Perce Tribe — that promise plentiful fishing in perpetuity.

Jonathan W. Smith, the chairman of the Confederated Tribes of the Warm Springs Reservation of Oregon, said the 19thcentury treaty ceding much of the tribes’ land to the federal government promised indefinite fishing rights and that fish would always be available in the tribe’s traditional areas.

But that has not been the case in recent decades, he said, as the longhouses that host tribal ceremonies have “had empty tables.”

“For too long, we have not had fish to sustain ourselves, let alone teach our youth the ways of our culture,” he said.

Inslee, who is well known as a climate advocate, also framed the agreement as part of a wider effort to address climate change impacts.

Deputy U.S. Energy Secretary David Turk praised Inslee, who ran for the Democratic presidential nomination in 2020, at the White House event for helping form the foundation of the Biden administration’s climate policy.

Dam removal possibility worries Republicans Republicans in the region have largely been skeptical — if not down-

right hostile — to the agreement, seeing it as a precursor to removing dams on the Snake River in eastern Washington.

U.S. House Energy and Commerce Chair Cathy McMorris Rodgers of Washington state held a hearing last month blasting the “secret deal” that she said excluded utilities, hydropower users, agriculture and other affected industries in the area.

Removing four Snake River dams — Ice Harbor Dam, Lower Monumental Dam, Little Goose Dam, and Lower Granite Dam — would harm the area’s clean-energy production, flood control capability and overall economy, Rodgers said at the hearing.

Mallory testified that the agreement leaves a decision on dam removal to Congress.

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.

14.

who sported a cone bra

19. Viola da Gamba, pl.

22. Pool tool

23. Molten rock

24. Southern cuisine pods

25. Civil rights org.

26. Jimmy Buffet: “You got ____ to the left...”

27. Many iambs

28. Iron/carbon alloy

29. *Golightly of little black dress and sunglasses fame

32. Tchaikovsky’s fowl

33. Bro’s sib

36. *Nothing came between her and her Calvins

38. Loud noise

40. Car’s unique identifier, acr.

41. Diamond on a sweater

44. Awaken

46. Rough

48. Type of juniper

49. Proclamation

50. Bluish green

51. Billy Joel’s “____ the Good Die Young”

52. Bulgarian money

53. Glory prerequisite

54. Above

55. NFL’s Lamar Jackson in 1923, e.g.

58. Done with “my little eye”?

SCREENSHOT FROM WHITE HOUSE LIVE FEED

Oregon Gov. Tina Kotek congratulates Washington state and four Native American tribes for their hard work on a 10-year Columbia River Basin agreement to try to bring salmon back to the river. It was announced last year but celebrated Friday, Feb. 23, 2024 at a signing ceremony at the White House.

Wrestlers showing out at state

Some of Columbia County’s top high school wrestlers put it all on the mats at the OSAA/OnPoint State Wrestling Championships, which were held Feb. 22-23 at the Memorial Coliseum in Portland.

State Champions

The headline performances were St. Helens High School’s Jadyn Pense and Scappoose’s Maverick Heimbuck, who earned state titles in their respective divisions.

Pense is just a freshman, but she proved that she is the best in the state, capping off a tremendous season with a girls 4A/3A/2A/1A state championship. Hannah Barber, an assistant coach for the Lions, detailed what the achievement meant for Pense and the program.

“It was really just a big moment for women especially. We haven’t had a collegiate girls state champion yet,” Barber said. “It was a big deal, because not only is she a freshman, but she’s 14 years old. This is her first year in high school; she’s never lost a match in Oregon yet.” Barber said the achieve-

ment says a lot about what the future of Pense’s career could look like. Barber said that watching Pense achieve the title was an “empowering moment.”

“She worked really hard for this; she was going to double practices, girls’ and boys’ practices, and I could tell it was starting to get to her a little bit,” Barber said. “After the match, she was crying, and she said, ‘I worked so hard for this, and it’s all paid off.’”

Like Pense, Heimbuck entered the bracket as the number 1 seed in the 4A 157 lb. division and was able to defend the ranking through the bracket to seize the title.

In addition to the two state champions, Columbia County schools acquitted themselves well. Let’s take a look at where some of the other wrestlers from around the county ended up.

Clatskanie

Clatskanie sent two wrestlers to state, Natalie Baker from its girls team and Taylor Crawford on the boys side.

Head Coach Zach Davis said that Crawford placed 2nd at state after knocking off the number 2 tournament seed in his first match. “He wrestled extremely

some more placers,” Davis said. “The entire team deserves praise for finishing the season strong.”

Rainier High School

Rainier sent five wrestlers to state, two on the girls side and three from the boys team. Derek Katon, Jonny Rice, and Walker Makinson represented

lb. division, had a great showing at state, finishing second in the 3A 165 lb. class. On the girl’s side, Kasey Neal and Lily Key both lost in their blood round matches, and each finished one spot short of placement.

St. Helens High School

St. Helens sent a large

contingent of wrestlers to the state tournament, including eight wrestlers for the boy’s team. Evan Willis placed 4th, Greg Hall got 5th, Tyler Smith placed 6th, and Austin Stockwell placed 4th. Michael Cobabe, John Hubbard, and Carter Stewart wrestled but did not place, according to Head Coach Paul Connelly.

“Overall, the team did outstanding, and I was very pleased with our performance,” Connelly said.

On the girls side, Pense, Kate Leonard, Annaliese Steele, and Kallee Kester represented the Lions. Leonard, a senior and captain, placed 3rd. Kester, a junior and captain, placed 3rd. Barber said that Leonard was a great leader for the team this year.

“Not only is [Leonard] an exceptional wrestler, she’s an awesome individual. She was our captain along with Kallee Kester this year, and she’s really good with the girls,” Barber said. “She really enjoys pushing herself during practice but also enjoys helping the other girls figure out how to wrestle. We have a lot of new girls, and she and Kallee have been really good about working with them.”

Regarding Kester, Barber said that she was battling a

knee injury for much of the season but still managed to make state and battle through the adversity for a 3rd place finish. Of note, both Pense and Kester were both recipients of the St. Helens Middle School John Beck Memorial Award, Pense in 2023, and Kester in 2021. They continue to excel at the high school level. Barber said that the team’s success had been a product of the buy-in from the athletes in the program and the well-rounded approach of the coaching staff. Barber said there have been many different people who have volunteered their time to lend their expertise to help coach the wrestlers.

One thing Barber wanted to make sure to highlight was the program’s senior captains, especially their work ethic and commitment to the program. “I’d like to honor Kate Leonard and Evan Willis; they are our senior captains, and this is their last year of wrestling. I speak for all the coaches when I say we are so grateful for all of the dedication, hard work, and perseverance they’ve shown all the other athletes,” Barber said. “They’ve really put a lot of heart and soul into this program, and I want them to know that we all appreciate it.”

City, SHHS partner for National Engineers Week

four days to plan activities for. Wagner said there is an “intervention time” during school days, and SHHS partnered with the city and Lower Columbia Engineering to provide information sessions for students.

“Students could opt-in to attending the session during the school day, where they could ask questions,” Wagner said. “On the next two days, they came and set up a couple tables in our commons areas that had a bunch of different swag that was there, kind of get students interested, and be available to answer questions. Then we had a tower challenge.”

an “Engineer for a Day” field trip at City Hall. Wagner said that 25 students attended the field trip. The group was a combination of students from the pre-engineering class, students who were interested throughout the week, and kids from the Talented and Gifted program.

The opportunity allowed students to get a presentation from Mayor Rick Scholl, talk to the engineering division and other partners, and see what city projects are currently happening.

“They got an actual tour of the different projects. I

think they went over to the water conservation areas, got some information about the waterfront project as well,” Wagner said. “They kind of got to see what it was like to be an engineer and just learn about the infrastructure of our city and why it’s important that we have engineers working on these problems.” Students got hands-on experience with case studies presented by city staff to help them understand the various factors that go into engineering decisions. Wagner said that students were engaged throughout the week, and

having the city invest in the education of SHHS students was a great opportunity.

“It was a really great week. I’m so glad that we were able to partner with the city and Lower Columbia; we got a lot of great responses, I’m hoping that this will be an annual activity,” Wagner said. “Just seeing community members in our building and sharing information is always really inspiring because our students will become our community members. It’s important for them to know what our city does and how they can become more involved.”

WILL LOHRE Country Media, Inc.

To celebrate National Engineers Week, St. Helens High School (SHHS) partnered with the City of St. Helens to give students insight and handson experiences to help them better understand the world of engineering.

National Engineers Week goes from Feb. 18 to Feb. 24.

SHHS Principal Katy Wagner said the partnership stemmed from collaboration with St. Helens Engineering Manager Sharon Darroux. They began

CRFR improvement

From Page A1

ensures our citizens receive the stellar emergency service they have come to expect,” Smythe said. “Our goal is to make a supportive change each day, small or large that moves the district forward.”

Smythe said the progress that has occurred over the past 100 days has been encourag-

planning in November. “We wanted to partner with students who were interested in engineering, show how engineers make a difference in our world, and really with a purpose to educate and inspire the next generation of engineers,” Wagner said. Wagner and SHHS College and Career Coordinator Katie Waight attended planning meetings at city hall to coordinate what National Engineers Week could look like for the students. With Presidents’ Day falling on Feb. 19, that left

ing, but there are still challenges ahead. Smythe said that he expects CRFR to meet the challenges on the back of the foundation of collaboration and trust that the administration and union have built in recent months. King said that the union understands the importance of the community’s safety and well-being. King said that public safety is the number one priority for the firefighters association. “We will be there for you when you need us most. A

The “tower challenge” was an engineering competition that invited students to create the tallest tower possible out of paper and tape in 20 minutes. The completed towers then had to support a 16 oz. can of fruit for at least 30 seconds.

Three students competed, completing their towers within the time limit. The winning tower reached 23” high and held its can of fruit for more than 5 minutes, according to the City of St. Helens Facebook page. All three winners received gift cards.

The week culminated with

large portion of your firefighters are also community members. Our members own homes in our community and raise their families here. We are invested in ensuring the health of the Fire District and the community because it is our community, too,” King said. “Moving forward, we hope to continue a more amicable and productive partnership with our Columbia River Fire and Rescue administration and our Board of Directors which helps us to be ready to help you.”

COURTESY PHOTO FROM CRYSTAL KING

Students participating in an engineering competition from city staff at SHHS.

COURTESY PHOTO FROM ST. HELENS HIGH SCHOOL FACEBOOK PAGE

Jadyn Pense is the state champion in the 170 lb. weight class.