SHC913

Columbia County honors 9/11 fallen

WILL LOHRE Country Media, Inc.

Throughout the country, communities gather together each year in solemn remembrance of the terrorist attacks that took place more than 20 years ago on the World Trade Center in New York.

In an event hosted by Hometown Heroes of Columbia County, community members gathered outside the Columbia County Sheriff’s Office and honored those whose lives were taken that tragic day. During the proceedings, different people took turns reading the names of the fallen.

The reading of the names began at 8:46 a.m., the time at which Flight 11 crashed into the World Trade Center’s north tower 22 years ago. In all, 2,977 names were read and honored. It’s important to remember that New York was not the only community that experienced loss. The World Trade Center incident accounted for 2,753 lives lost, 343 of whom were firefighters. There were 184 lives lost in the incident at the Pentagon in Washington, D.C., and 40 people died in the plane crash outside of Shanksville, Pennsylvania.

“It’s not only important but critical to remember an event that changed the history and the course of our country and all of our lives. Our first responders, our military, and the

victims’ loved ones were left with pain and a void,” said Hometown Heroes of Columbia County’s Vivian Rupe. “Honoring the lives lost is something that we hold dear to our hearts, as it reminds us that tomorrow is not promised for any of us. It is known that a Hero dies twice, once with their death and twice if their name is not spoken again. This event

gives us the opportunity to say their names again.” Hometown Heroes of Columbia County is a non-profit organization that supports currently serving military members. The organization was founded by Sheriff Brian Pixley

service members, the Hometown Heroes of Columbia County send care packages “full of love” from the community to help with their time away from home.

The 9/11 remembrance day event started in 2021, and Hometown He-

were in attendance this year.

“We plan to continue this annual event, and hope more community members learn about it and join us each year,” Rupe said. “We continue to serve and support our military and first responders, who are heroes to all of us. They sacrifice up to their lives, so the rest of us can live comfortably in freedom. For the love and appreciation of our country and the heroes who serve it, we will continue to honor and remember.”

Public Information Officer for Columbia County Mark Pacheco was in attendance and gave some insight as to what these types of events mean in communities across the country.

“Events like these are opportunities to connect with the community and to display the unity that bonded us as a nation on that historic day,” Pacheco said. “Hometown Heroes of Columbia County and other similar organizations nationwide are focused on remembering and honoring those who lost their lives on that fateful morning 22 years ago.”

Rupe said that Hometown Heroes is making an effort to provide many opportunities for our community to learn about “our heroes” and how we can all support them.

For more information on how

CRFR Update: Withdrawn loan, interim fire chief options

WILL LOHRE Country Media, Inc.

The Columbia River Fire & Rescue (CRFR) has withdrawn its request for a loan of $1.6 million from the City of St. Helens, a development that was made public during a City Council work session on Sept. 6.

The discussion of the potential loan was the third item on the council’s agenda, but there was no discussion to be had, as Mayor Rick Scholl noted that CRFR had pulled their loan request.

City Administrator John Walsh met with CRFR Chief of Finance

Jimmy Sanchez Aug. 21, and after that meeting, Sanchez made a formal request for the funds needed to help the district operate until tax revenues arrived in November. Following Scholl’s announcement, Walsh stated that the city received an email withdrawing the loan.

“Just late last week, we got a letter withdrawing their request, they obviously had another solution; they figured it out,” Walsh said.

Council President Jessica Chilton inquired as to what the solution might be, and Walsh said that there had been no indication as to how CRFR would handle its financial challenges.

Navigating the shortfall

Akin Blitz, who represents both

CRFR and the city in different capacities, said that to the best of his knowledge, Sanchez was able to come to an agreement with U.S. Bank to access funds during the windfall.

“I am not certain, and my sense is that Sanchez was able to create agreement with the bank under an arrangement where the county is the repayment agent and satisfies the tax anticipation loan by repayment with first tax revenues when received by the County Auditor/ Treasurer,” Blitz said.

Blitz offered comment in the absence of Sanchez, who was on a hunting trip.

According to sources familiar with the district, Sanchez filled the role of Acting in Capacity Fire Chief while Deputy Chief Eric Smythe was out on FMLA leave.

Smythe took command of the district by default as the highestranking officer following Mike Gorsuch’s resignation from the interim fire chief position after the district board’s termination of former Fire Chief Joel Medina.

Smythe returned to work Sept. 11.

Smythe confirmed what Blitz said last week.

“Chief Sanchez worked with U.S. Bank to secure funds for the shortfall. A new contractual agreement is currently being arraigned and will be presented to the Fire

Board of Directors at the next meeting for consideration/signing,” Smythe said.

The CRFR Board of Directors was set to meet Sept. 12, but the meeting has since been postponed to Sept. 19 due to “lack of quorum.”

Interim fire chief solutions

The search for an interim fire chief has been headed by the Special Districts Association of Oregon (SDAO) and Senior Consultant George Dunkel.

The CRFR Board will hear a presentation from Dunkel during their meeting Sept. 19, and the SDAO has identified two candidates for the position of interim fire chief and one candidate to operate in a consulting role for the district, according to the board’s agenda packet.

“We reached out to many individuals (retired fire chiefs) who have shown interest in providing interim fire chief services. We also contacted State and Regional fire service organizations for names,” Dunkel said. “Once we had a good

cadre of names, we contacted each and determined interest and reviewed their experience with organizations under stress. We asked many individuals for proposals; we received two that we determined met the needs of the district.”

The candidates for the interim position are Roy O. Palmer and Roy Hari. Retired Fire Chief Scott Weninger declined the role of interim fire chief, electing instead to offer consultation services.

CRFR Page A5

‘Very strong’ El Niño to bring warmer winter, scorching ocean water

Obituaries ................. A3

Police Blotter ............ A3

News and Views ...... A4

Poll ............................ A4

Community Calendar A4

Classified Ads ......... A5

Legals ....................... A6

Crossword ............... A6

Sports ..................... A8

Vol. 141, No. 39

ALEX BAUMHARDT

Oregon Capital Chronicle Chronicle Guest Article

A tropical weather system called El Niño is beginning its march up the coast of Oregon, bringing with it a warmer winter and inescapable heat for some marine life.

Oregonians on the coast could experience flooding from high tides and rising sea levels. In the mountains, areas hoping for snow are more likely to get rain, which could accentuate the drought plaguing the West. For aquatic species, warming ocean temperatures could spur a northern migration and could be deadly for plankton vital to salmon and other species up the food chain.

Spurred by a change in air pressure over the Pacific Ocean near the equator, El Niño last visited Oregon in the winter of 2018, and has occurred more than 20 times since 1950. It is both an ocean and atmospheric weather pattern that touches

all parts of the West.

The latest system, which recently reached the southern Oregon coast, is predicted to be among the fiercest in years, according to Oregon’s state climatologist, Larry O’Neill. There have only been three El Niños since 1970 that have reached the category of “very strong” as determined by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. The last one was in 1997.

“Generally the rule of thumb is that El Niño leads to drier, warmer weather,” he said. “In strong years, it’s led to warmer, wetter weather. We don’t know yet how robust those relationships are though.”

The system typically arrives in early September, reaches its peak in the winter and fades toward the spring of the following year.

Andy Bryant, a hydrologist at the National Weather Service, said that it’s likely that due to warmer

The CRFR Board will hear their options for a replacement interim fire chief at their Sept.

meeting

building located at 270 Columbia Blvd, St. Helens.

SHPD seizes methamphetamine, fentanyl in Scappoose

In August 2023, the St. Helens Police Department received a tip regarding an individual that had been dealing substantial quantities of fentanyl in St. Helens. St. Helens officers and detectives began an investigation and identified the suspect as 45-year-old Nathan Rhoadarmer.

On September 3, 2023, the Columbia 911 Communications District received a call regarding drug activity at 51551 Columbia River Highway, Scappoose. A Scappoose Police Department sergeant responded to the location and identified one of the individuals as Nathan Rhoadarmer. St. Helens officers responded to the location and executed a search warrant

on Rhoadarmer’s vehicle which led to Rhoadarmer’s arrest. Rhoadarmer was lodged at the Columbia County Jail for Possession of a Controlled Substance, Manufacture of a Controlled Substance, and Delivery of a Controlled Substance for both fentanyl and methamphetamine.

The search of Rhoadarmer’s vehicle resulted in the seizure of 562 fentanyl pills,

27.3 grams of powder fentanyl, 9.2 grams of methamphetamine, and $1,863.36 in cash. The St. Helens Police Department was assisted by the Scappoose Police Department in the arrest and seizure of the drugs.

If you have additional information regarding this case, please contact St. Helens Detective Dylan Gaston at 503-397-1521.

New police building project slowly moving ahead

C. RUARK

JEREMY

Country Media, Inc.

Three years after first proposing an estimated $22 million new facility for St. Helens Police, a new, less expensive designed is emerging.

The original design included a court, city council chambers and more, but as the costs mounted and limited resources were available, city officials decided in January to reduce the scale of the project.

“The initial public safety facility was reduced in size removing municipal court, council chambers, IT, along

with other office and meeting space, and less site improvements to reduce the cost,” St. Helens City Administrator John Walsh said. “The goal

remains to deliver the project within the $12.6M budget and project estimators indicate costs within the budget.”

The city has selected

contractor Howard S. Wright as a construction manager/ general contractor (CM/GC) to complete the new police station design and architects are working on the construction details.

Funding

To fund the project, the city has been considering an increase in the public safety fee and a bond.

“As part of this year’s budget, the city approved an increase in the public safety fee to $10 per month to pay for the much-needed facility,” Walsh said. “The City Council could consider a

bond to reduce the public safety fee amount in the future.”

The facility redesign remains on schedule to begin construction in mid-March 2024. Construction is anticipated to take up to a year, according to Walsh.

The project seeks to address the issue of the outdated police station that currently houses the St. Helens Police Department, at 150 S 13th Street. The 2,200-square-foot building was constructed in 1971. The new facility will allow for the continued expansion of the St. Helens police force as population and call volume

increases, according to city planners.

Police recruiting

The city has struggled in its recruiting efforts for new police officers but has been able to added six officers in the past seven years. “The City’s ability to add any additional officers will directly depend upon having additional resources to pay for more officers,” Walsh said.

Follow developments at thechronicleonline.com and in the Wednesday print editions of The Chronicle.

Oregon to see annular solar eclipse, weather permitting

STAFF REPORT

Country Media, Inc.

Several regions in the state will provide excellent viewing opportunities for a spectacular celestial event this fall: the upcoming annular solar eclipse Saturday, Oct. 14.

The moon, at its furthest point from Earth, will appear smaller as it passes in front of the sun, creating a brilliant “ring of fire” effect. Visitors are encouraged to book their accommodations and other arrangements early — as hotels and campsite reservations are anticipated to sell out quickly — and to anticipate traffic impacts in the path of annularity.

The eclipse will commence its visibility in Oregon shortly after 8 a.m. with annularity beginning at 9:14 a.m. This astronomical event will be visible across Oregon’s skies but the best viewing will be in the path of annularity which includes parts of the Oregon Coast and Willamette Valley, a concentrated area within Central Oregon, and much of Southern Oregon –drawing visitors and eclipsechasers to these areas for excellent visibility, as well as guided tours and events, according to a release from the Oregon Tourism Commission, dba Travel Oregon.

If skies are clear on the Oregon Coast, viewers with an unobstructed view of the sunrise between Langlois and Gleneden Beach will see the eclipse first before it traces a southeastward trajectory through Albany, Eugene, Springfield, Crater Lake National Park, Roseburg, Medford, and Lakeview before heading further southeast. The eclipse will reach maximum coverage at 9:16 a.m. over the Eugene area, producing near-total darkness. The moon will then begin to clear the sun, completely restoring

daylight at about 10:39 a.m.

“Given Oregon’s pristine starry skies, the state is known for its excellent stargazing opportunities and this year’s annular solar eclipse will put on another exciting celestial show,” Travel Oregon CEO Todd Davidson said. “With the path of annularity passing through the Oregon Outback and a new moon on the rise that weekend, eclipse-watchers who spend a night or two will also be treated to excellent stargazing.”

This year’s annular solar eclipse differs from the solar eclipse observed over Oregon in 2017 in that the disc of the moon appeared bigger than the sun in 2017 — which created total darkness for two minutes. In October 2023, the disc of the moon will be smaller than the disc of the sun by about 5 percent, and people will be able to see the Ring of Fire for a full 4 minutes in the path of annularity. The sky will get dark but not fully as dark as in 2017. Animals will become quieter and viewers will be able to see shadows of trees and other landscape elements.

Numerous regions and communities have organized events and other festivities around the upcoming annular solar eclipse. Visitors are encouraged to plan ahead and book accommodations and other arrangements early and keep an eye on the weather forecast and potential traffic impacts as the date approaches. Certified eclipse-viewing glasses will be available at Travel Oregon welcome centers while supplies last.

An interactive map of the eclipse’s path as well as eclipse-viewing information and festivities can be accessed here: https://traveloregon.com/plan-your-trip/ events/how-to-experiencethe-annular-solar-eclipse-inoregon/

Know before you go

Helpful travel tips for viewing the annular solar eclipse include: Reserve lodging early: Many hotels and campsites in the path of annularity will likely sell out.

Be prepared for traffic: Many small communities in the path have only one road leading in and out. These could get backed up, making traffic an issue. There are also home football games on eclipse day in both Corvallis and Eugene, which will add to potential backups on I-5 and in those urban areas. To reduce congestion, avoid highways and other popular attractions in the path of the eclipse. Plan to arrive at least one full day, and ideally several days, in advance of the event — and don’t attempt to travel home immediately after the eclipse. If possible, avoid traveling entirely in the path of annularity on October 14, 2023.

Bring a map: Cell phone and GPS reception can be unreliable in rural Oregon. The increase of cell phone usage will overwork services and make connections tougher. Know where you’re going, and don’t expect to rely on your phone or online maps. Order a highway map online at TravelOregon.com or pick one up at a Welcome Center.

Fuel up: With long distances between gas stations in rural areas, visitors should make sure to calculate their fuel needs.

Pack provisions: There are a limited number of restaurants in some of Oregon’s beautiful, remote places, and these eateries may run out of food. Stock up on picnic supplies, snacks, water and other essentials in advance.

Chief Advertorial Saturday, 1:00 and 2:30 P.M., September 16, at 106 W. B St., inside Rainier City Hall. Presented by the Rainier Oregon Historical Museum

Jay Critchley now lives in Provincetown, MA. Jay lived in the Creswell and Cottage Grove area in the early 1970s working as a VISTA Volunteer (Volunteers in Service to America), when he became fascinated by the elegant wigwam burner structures that dotted the landscape with their glowing nighttime embers. He has returned several times since, including at an artist residency at Milepost 5 in Portland, where he shot the documentary, Fireflies in the Night: The Great American Wigwam Burner. He hopes to preserve and repurpose these historic grand structures. He is a multidisciplinary artist and writer.

Rainier Oregon Historical Museum Annual Logging Event

• Logging exhibit upstairs on the 3rd floor of City Hall.

• Kids’ games, upstairs in the hallway by the museum and library: A wigwam burner coloring contest, games and a logging grappler will challenge their skills and minds.

• The logging exhibit will include logging tools and pictures showing Rainier’s great logging history and a diorama of the logging incline.

• The museum will be open on the 3rd FL from noon until 4:00 P. M.

• “Fireflies in the Night: The Great Wigwam Burner” shown downstairs in the city hall chamber room at 1:00. The second showing is at 2:30.

Don’t forget to use eclipse glasses: To watch the eclipse safely, viewers will need eclipse-viewing glasses, which block harmful light from damaging vision.

Carry some cash: The ATMs in many small-to-medium towns are often limited in funds. Most services in Oregon take credit cards; however, there are places in rural areas that only take cash. Prepare for variable weather: Fall in Oregon can bring dramatic swings, particularly at elevation where it could be snowing. Visitors should check forecasts and be prepared for all types of weather.

Be respectful. Don’t trespass: Always respect private property boundaries. Stay on public land, be kind to local communities and wildlife and don’t tread on sensitive habitats.

Wildfire prevention: Wildfires are a serious threat

in Oregon, so visitors should be vigilant about extinguishing campfires and properly disposing of cigarettes. In addition, visitors should be aware of fire risks and restrictions, including campfire bans. Avoid parking or driving on dry grass, as vehicles can spark a wildfire.

Avoid excessive waste: Consider packing large water containers and refilling them with tap water. Many places in Oregon enjoy excellent tap water, so there’s no need to buy it bottled.

Pro photo tip: Instead of trying to capture images of

Courtesy photo from Travel Oregon

the eclipse, capture shots of family and friends, as well as the shadows and trees that may look different during the event.

Fast Fact If skies are clear on the Oregon Coast, viewers with an unobstructed view of the sunrise between Langlois and Gleneden Beach will see the eclipse first before it traces a southeastward trajectory.

“Fireflies in the Night: The Great Wigwam Burner”

A documentary by Jay Critchley, highlighting wigwam burners and the logging industry.

Courtesy photo from St. Helens Police Department

The search of Rhoadarmer’s vehicle resulted in the seizure of 562 fentanyl pills, 27.3 grams of powder fentanyl, 9.2 grams of methamphetamine, and $1,863.36 in cash.

Courtesy photo from the City of St. Helens

This is the new conceptual drawing of the proposed St. Helens Police building.

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.

Police RePoRts

St. Helens Police

August 27

• Police arrested a 38-yearold female subject on DUII - Alcohol and disorderly conduct near the 200 block of S 18th Street.

August 29

• Police investigated a stalking order near the 300

block of S. Columbia River Highway.

August 31

• Police arrested a 38-yearold male subject on a fugitive warrant near the 2000 block of Columbia Boulevard.

September 1

• Police arrested a 54-year-

Alvin Pete Hendrickson Nov. 30, 1948 ~ Aug. 26, 2023

Long time Columbia County resident Alvin (Al, Big Al) Pete Hendrickson passed away in Yuma, Arizona, on Aug. 26, 2023, at the age of 74.

Al was born on Nov. 30, 1948, in North Bend, Oregon. He was the son of Florence Lillian (LaDuke) and Alvin Peter Hendrickson, both now deceased. A brother, John Oliver (Sonny), also preceded him in death.

As a young child, his family moved to Quincy, Washington.

After Al’s parents divorced, he and his mother and sister moved to Florence, Oregon where he graduated from Siuslaw High School in 1967.

After high school, Al attended Oregon Technical Institute and later Portland State University.

Al worked in real estate, the grocery business, and in distribution, eventually be

Cheryl Darlene Breslin passed away on Sept. 5, 2023. She was born on Jan. 3, 1947, in Vancouver, Wash ington, to Trygve and Ruby Hagen. She had one younger sister, Kristy, and they grew up in Orchards, Washington.

Cheryl spent most of her free time riding horses and running her barn. Cheryl attended Evergreen High School, where she met her first husband, Dennis Malone, and together they had her only child, Robin.

Although life with Dennis was brief, Cheryl was fortunate to meet the love of her life, Christopher J. Breslin. She knew she had met her match in Chris. The couple enjoyed countless parties on their houseboat and traveling with friends. They loved the Columbia River and made it a point to either live on it or have a view of it.

In 1978, the couple opened Breslin Pontiac, Olds, GMC with Chris’s brother and wife. Shortly after, they moved to St. Helens to manage the dealership, and when Chris and Cheryl became sole owners, they expanded the dealership to include Ford. From then on, Cheryl was very involved in the local community and even served a term on the St. Helens City Council, in 1986.

One of her proudest moments was purchasing the family farm, in 1995, and building her dream horse barn on the property four years later. Unfortunately, Chris passed

Frito Lay, where he worked for over 20 years.

Al married Penny Larsen on July 27, 2002.

Al enjoyed playing pool, poker, and golf. He belonged to the Elks and the Moose. He was an active and enthusiastic member of the Cocopah Niners Golf Club in the resort that was his Yuma home. He also found a poker

old male subject on a fugitive warrant and felon in possession of a restricted weapon near 18th Street and Cowlitz Street.

September 2

• Police arrested a 36-yearold subject on a probation violation and attempting to elude while driving a motor vehicle at the 500 block of Columbia River Highway.

obituaRies

Helens, usually three times a week. He won many pool trophies in his early years in a league in St. Helens.

Al and Penny belonged to the Traveling Beavers RV Club and spent many joyful hours on campouts with that special group. He and Penny also happily traveled around the US in their motorhome, visiting all 50 states (48 of them in the motorhome).

Big Al was known in both Oregon and Arizona for having a big smile, big laugh, big spirit, and a big heart.

Al is survived by his wife Penny Louise in Warren, Oregon and Yuma, Arizona; sister Jan (Clint) in Bend, Oregon; niece Debra (Travis, deceased) in Astoria, Oregon; nephew Jeff (Lisa) in Gresham, Oregon; grand and great nieces and nephews; and many special cousins. Burial will be in Florence, Oregon, with a memorial service next summer.

September 3

• Police arrested a 32-yearold male subject on DUIIAlcohol, and reckless driving near the 500 block of Columbia River Highway.

• Police arrested a 48-yearold male subject on violation of release agreement near the 2000 block of Gable Road.

September 4

• Police arrested a 41-yearold male subject on a fugitive warrant near 18th Street and Columbia Boulevard.

September 5

• Police took a report on vandalism near the 7400 block of North Columbia River Highway.

April 20, 1942 ~ Sept. 6, 2023

Diane Marie Dillard, of St. Helens, Oregon, passed away peacefully surrounded by family and close friends on Wed., Sep. 6, 2023. She was 81 years old. Diane was born in Mason City, Iowa to Paul and Elsie Kruggel and was their only child.

Surviving Diane are her sons, Daniel and James Dillard; daughter-in-law Charlie Dillard; granddaughter Crystal Dillard; and great grandchildren, Maddyson Ragner and Max Ragner all of St. Helens, Oregon. She was a longtime member of First Lutheran Church in St. Helens.

Diane moved to Rainier, Oregon as a young child and then to St. Helens, Oregon in 6th grade where she attended McBride Grade School. She graduated from St. Helens High School in 1960 and attended University of Oregon. Diane married Max “Sandy” Dillard Aug. 8, 1964 and they had two sons. Daniel in 1965 and James in 1968. Sandy passed away in 1998.

houses and always had a fun theme to go with them. She also owned and operated two floating home marinas in St. Helens, Oregon.

in the Red Cross to the area to assist first responders in disaster relief.

Diane’s extraordinary kindness was always present in whatever she was doing. She had a way of making everyone she met feel important and special. One of her greatest talents was as a connector of people. She could see the value in bringing people together for a better good for each other or the community.

away in 2004, leaving a large hole in Cheryl’s life. However, that didn’t stop her from continuing their legacy.

Those who knew Cheryl knew that she was a wise, resourceful, and independent business woman. She was also a lover of horses, Elvis Presley, Pepsi, and Benson & Hedges cigarettes. She will be remembered for the immense love she held for her family and her community, but also for the tough love that she gave to keep her loved ones on the straight and narrow.

She will be celebrated for her kind heart and was known to give generous donations to those in need.

On multiple occasions, she opened her home and barn to horses, dogs, and cats that needed a place to call home.

If you were ever in need of assistance or advice, Cheryl would undoubtedly be your first call. She was also a force to be reckoned with

when she was passionate about something and regularly shared her thoughts and opinions. You always knew where you stood with Cheryl, for better or for worse. On any given day, you could find Cheryl driving her camouflage side-by-side around town to watch her greatgrandson’s baseball games, planning a family dinner, or sitting in front of her computer taking care of business. She was a true matriarch in her family and will be missed beyond words. Although saddened by such a great loss, it’s undoubtable that she is overjoyed to be reunited with Chris again.

Cheryl is preceded in death by her mother Ruby Hagen; father Trygve Hagen; and husband Christopher J. Breslin.

She is survived by her sister Kristy Gawthorne of Brush Prairie, Washington; daughter Robin Zimbrick (Ed); grandsons, Kyle Stonelake (Andrea) and Austin Zimbrick (Kristen); and great-grandsons, Logan, Landon, and Lincoln.

Cheryl’s family has decided not to host a celebration of life, as Cheryl did not like attending them. They would like everyone to remember her in their own way.

The family would like to thank the St. Helens Senior Center for their assistance and for the items they provided to help make her final days more comfortable.

Diane went on to work for the Boise Cascade paper mill in St. Helens where she worked her way up from Executive Assistant for various mill managers to being the Communications and Public Relations Manager for the mill. In that role, she was very involved in supporting community groups, especially youth activities. She retired from Boise Cascade in 2009 after 44 years of service. Diane stayed active

Donavon Wade Mehlhoff, 63, died in his home in St. Helens, Oregon, on Sept. 1, 2023.

Don was born May 4, 1960 in Minot, North Dakota. He was raised on the family farm with his older brother, Mark, and two younger sisters, Barbara and Beth. He married Tracy Slavens on Oct. 5, 1985. Together they have three children and four grandchildren.

Don was educated at Garrison and Minot public schools, NDSU-Bottineau and University of Idaho. Don was employed as a District Conservationist for the USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service for nearly 38 years. He retired in January 2021.

Don was a man of deep faith. He loved the Lord, and his ministry was music. In his youth, he and his closest friends formed a Christian band, Journey’s End. Over

Diane cared greatly for her community and was best known for her civic activities, volunteerism, and philanthropy. Over the years, she served on many public and nonprofit boards like the Chamber of Commerce, United Way, Columbia River Fire and Rescue, Sacagawea Health Center, Columbia Learning Center, and the PTO. She was instrumental in fundraising and helping keep the St. Helens fireworks going over the years. She received many awards for her outstanding civic service.

Diane was very involved in emergency and disaster management, being a part of the Columbia Emergency Planning Association. She was the first person to bring

May 4, 1960 ~ Sept. 1, 2023

It was the norm for visitors to her home whether doing work or just stopping by to leave with a chocolate treat or a jar of her homemade freezer jam. She always remembered important dates in people’s lives. If Diane knew your birthday or anniversary, you were just about assured of receiving a card or flowers as would you if you were ill, grieving, graduating, or getting married.

A viewing will be held from 3:30 p.m. – 6:30 p.m.

Thurs., Sept. 14, 2023 at Columbia Funeral Home and a public celebration of life will be held at 1 p.m. on Sept. 30, 2023 at 34090 Skyway Drive in Scappoose, Oregon 97056 at the Scappoose Airport.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Diane’s honor can be made to Chance to Become Scholarship in Care of Columbia Learning Center. PO Box 1094, St. Helens, OR 97051. Please sign our online guestbook at www. columbiafh.com.

Oregon, and Emily Mehlhoff, St. Helens, Oregon; grandchildren, Eloise and Norah Cole and Sawyer Woodall; a foster grandchild; brother Mark Mehlhoff, Fargo, North Dakota; sister Beth (Kerry) Orton, Rochester, Minnesota; and many other family and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Melvin and Hulda; a stillborn brother; sister Barb (Wade) Tompkins; and grandson Iaen Cole.

the years he enjoyed serving on the worship team at the churches he attended with his family in Minot, North Dakota, Colfax, Washington, Lewiston, Idaho, and Columbia River Foursquare in St. Helens, Oregon.

Don is survived by his wife Tracy; daughters, Sarah (Andrew) Woodall, Hillsboro, Oregon, Alexis (Daniel) Cole, St. Helens,

Ronald

Ronald Dean Grant, 83, of Warren Oregon, passed away on Aug. 31, 2023 with his loving family by his side. He is survived by his wife Marge; daughters, Holly and Susan; and sons, Stan, Tony Stuart and Dennis.

A celebration of life will be held from 1 p.m. – 3:30 p.m. on Oct. 8, 2023 at the St. Helen’s Elks Lodge 1999, 350 Belton Rd., St. Helens, Oregon.

A memorial service will take place at 10 a.m. on Sept. 16, 2023 at Columbia River Foursquare Church, 555 Commons Dr., St. Helens, OR 97051. Luncheon to follow.

Any donations can be made to the American Cancer Society, or Columbia River Foursquare Missions. Please sign our online guestbook at www.columbiafh.com.

Diane Marie Dillard

Donavon Wade Mehlhoff

Dean Grant

News and Views

Feelings… whoa whoa whoa… feelings

MICHELLE PIERSON YOUNG Chronicle Guest Article

Let’s talk about your feelings. There is a specific, yucky feeling emotion that happens when we’re facing a circumstance unfamiliar to us and we don’t yet know what to do about it. There’s a lack of information and foundation to our moves. I call it yucky, but it’s sciency name is structure loss. Our collective experience of structure loss in-

cludes, but is not limited to, when we went into a worldwide quarantine during the pandemic (Is it over yet? Asking for a friend.). We were doing a thing, it was a big thing. We’d never done that thing before and we weren’t exactly sure how to do it. Other people, doing the thing, often irritated us with how they did the thing, or they got judgy about how we were doing the thing. And frankly, it was difficult to say who did it wrong and who did it right. That describes a lot of circumstances, but it was on high octane

as we all tried to navigate a worldwide experience on a personal level. We had no real structure to build from. We were all starting fresh. We still are in many ways. But what can you do with that feeling, it’s an underlying imbalance with a little fear? I find putting a label on something helps, knowing everyone has the feeling even if we manage it differently also feels nice. But the best thing I learned about yucky feelings, is simply that they are “designed” to move us to action. Our emotions are

community events

September 16 “Fireflies in the Night: The Great Wigwam Burner”

1 p.m. and 2:30 p.m. at 106 W B St., inside Rainier City Hall. Presented by the Rainier Oregon Historical Museum. This is a documentary by Jay Critchley. There is a logging exhibit upstairs on the 3rd floor of City Hall with kids’ games, a wigwam burner coloring contest, and a logging grappler.

September 19 2nd Annual Columbia County Senior Health Fair

10 a.m. - 3 p.m. at Columbia River Four Square Church, 555 Commons Dr., St. Helens. Come by and check out the 70+ vendors. This event is free. For more information visit www.understandingmymedicare.com or contact Beth Moffett at 503-9871113.

September 19 The BugNutz, Master Gardeners

7 p.m. at the Caples House, 1925 First St. in Columbia City. Learn everything you need to know about the wee beasties in your garden. $5. For questions call, 503-3975390.

September 28 Scappoose Garden Club Meeting

11 a.m. at 51555 SW Old Portland Road in the St. Wenceslaus Parish Hall. Bring your favorite garden harvest potluck dish and recipe to celebrate the beginning of the new calendar year. Items to be discussed will be budget, business meeting, committee members to be established, programs to be set. New members welcomed. For questions, please email scappoosegardenclub@ gmail.com.

October 7 The Big Halloween Parade

6:30 p.m. Parade starts at Columbia Blvd. at the Chamber office and will end at the intersection of 1st St. and Saint Helens St. To apply to be in the parade email www.

The

thebighalloweenparade.com. Applications due by July 31, 2023.

October 8 Harvest Festival Noon – 5 p.m. at Caples House, 1925 First St. in Columbia City. Olde timey crafts, games, cider press, raffles and food. Stop by for some fun. Event is free except for raffles and food. Call 503-397-5390 with questions.

October 29 5th Annual Trunk or Treat by Hometown Pizza 1 p.m. – 3 p.m. at 109 E A Street Plaza, Rainier, Oregon. There will be raffles and prizes for costumes and best decorated vehicles. This event is free. Any vehicle is welcomed to show up an hour before the event to decorate their vehicle. Please bring your own candy to hand out. For questions, please contact Nina Pogue at 503-556-3700.

Ongoing events

Fridays 2 p.m. - 4 p.m. Caples House offers Tea and Sweets: a bottomless cup of tea with a homemade dessert. Cost is $5. In The Cottage, 1925 First Street in Columbia City. Call 503-397-5390 for more details.

Fridays - Sunday 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. For more information, call 503-3975390.

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.

Resonate Recovery Meets at 7 p.m. to 8 p.m.

Wednesday - Sundays. This is a Bible based, Christcentered 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 714-7689327 or check the Resonate Facebook page.

Columbian Toastmasters

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.

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.

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.

Watch Spring on Fridays 2 p.m.- 4 p.m. Have tea and a sweet in Caples’ Cottage, 1925 1st Street in Columbia City. Cost is $5. 503-3975390.

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.

drivers. They are designed to help us identify what we want and what we don’t want. I can tell you this, no one wants structure loss and structure loss knows this. It gets up in your business and it yells at you, “build something.” It begs you to act in your own behalf and restabilize. It would be cooler if it felt more like happiness, the emotion that says, “Ohhh yeaaaaahhh, love me some of this. ‘Second helpings, please.” But such is life, not everything is happiness.

But my clients find, when they can properly identify the yuck that they would like less of, or the structure they would like to feel grounded in, they can easily figure out some ‘next right moves’.

We’re still feeling the effects of a world and circumstances we couldn’t have seen coming. But we all know there have been some great things that have come of it. Those are things we built, new ways of doing things and being in the world. We have new “structures” we couldn’t have had

cRime

if we hadn’t learned what we learned.

Not every emotion feels good. Not every circumstance does either. But there’s possibility in everything and when we’re willing to learn, we’re make new structures and ideas to add to those we already have. And maybe that adds a little more happy into the world as we go along the path.

Man arrested for sex abuse against a minor

On Saturday, Sept. 2, at approximately 4 a.m., a St. Helens police officer was on a routine patrol at Campbell Park in St. Helens when they noted a suspicious vehicle in the parking lot. The officer discovered Jaider GodinezSamayoa, 22, of Portland, engaging in sexual activity with an underage female.

Officers detained GodinezSamayoa and interviewed the underage female. Godinez-

Samayoa was subsequently arrested and lodged at the Columbia County Jail for Rape III, Sodomy III, Sexual Abuse III, Contributing to the Sexual Delinquency of a Minor, Public Indecency, and Sexual Misconduct.

If you have any information regarding GodinezSamayoa having additional contact with minors, the St. Helens Police Department would like to hear from you. Please contact St. Helens Detectives Gaston and Smith by calling 503-397-1521.

Sexual abuse indictment leads to arrest

STAFF REPORT

Country Media, Inc.

On Tuesday, Sept. 5, at approximately 4:30 p.m., St. Helens Police Department officers and detectives arrested Keegan Gollehon, 26, of Vancouver, Washington on an outstanding arrest warrant.

Gollehon’s arrest caps a two-month investigation that began in July 2023 when a victim reported that she was sexually assaulted by Gollehon. Detectives learned of a second victim and an additional investigation was initiated.

The cases were presented

to a Columbia County Grand Jury on August 24, 2023.

Gollehon was indicted on three counts of Rape I, one

count of Sexual Abuse in the Third Degree, and one count of Strangulation. After the indictment, detectives lured Gollehon to St. Helens where he was arrested. Gollehon was lodged at the Columbia County Jail on the outstanding arrest warrant.

Detectives are seeking additional information about Gollehon’s activities. If you have any related information regarding Gollehon, the St. Helens Police Department would like to hear from you. Please contact St. Helens Detectives Gaston and Smith by calling 503-397-1521.

Investigation leads to sexual abuse indictment

STAFF REPORT

Country Media, Inc.

On Wednesday, Sept. 6, at approximately 1:33 p.m., St. Helens Police Department detectives arrested Bruce Melvin, 62, in the 7200 block of SE Sherrett Street in Portland, Oregon.

Melvin’s arrest caps an

investigation that began in March 2023 when a victim reported that they were sexually abused by Melvin in St. Helens.

Detectives completed their investigation, and the case were presented to a Columbia County Grand Jury.

Melvin was subsequently indicted for Sexual Abuse in

the First Degree. Detectives are seeking additional information about Melvin’s activities. If you have any related information regarding Melvin, the St. Helens Police Department would like to hear from you. Please contact St. Helens Detectives Gaston and Smith by calling 503-397-1521.

Editorial policy: Opinions expressed on this page are independent of The Chronicle views and are solely those of the writers expressing them.

Write to us: We want to hear from you and encourage you to write letters to the editor. Because of space limitations, shorter letters have a better chance of being printed. We may edit your letter for style, grammar and clarity, although we do as little editing as possible. If you don’t want your letter printed under those conditions, just let us know.

Thank-you letters are limited to a general thanks and summary of

an issue or action. We reserve the right to exclude lists of people, organizations and businesses. Letters received after noon on Friday may not be in time for the following Wednesday’s paper.

To verify authenticity, all letters must be signed and include your address and daytime phone number. We won’t print your street address or phone number (just your city of residence). Submissions may be emailed to chroniclenews@countrymedia.net, sent via mail, or dropped off at the office.

Letters policy: This newspaper’s letters to the editor are limited to a maximum of 250 words and will be edited for grammar, spelling and

blatant inaccuracies. Unsubstantiated or irresponsible allegations, or personal attacks on any individual, will not be published. Letters containing details presented as facts rather than opinions must include their sources. Writers are limited to one published letter per month. All submissions must include the author’s full name, local street address and telephone number (only the name and city of residence will be published). By submitting a letter, writers also grant permission for them to be posted online.

Opinions expressed on this page are the writer’s alone and do not represent the opinion of the newspaper or its parent company, Country Media, Inc.

Michelle Pierson Young is a Lincoln City life coach and may be reached at Michelleatplay.com.

Courtesy photo Keegan Gollehon

STAFF REPORT Country Media, Inc.

Courtesy photo Jaider Godinez-Samayoa

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706

Estate Sales

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Estate Sale

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including refridg

From Page A1

When asked whether it was difficult to find candidates for the role, Dunkel said finding candidates wasn’t the issue.

“Not difficult to find them, but difficult to get many to want to take on the challenge,” Dunkel said.

Weninger cited a variety

of issues for his refusal to submit a proposal for interim fire chief. Weninger said he believed this situation would require an “interim fire chief, deputy chief, finance person, human resources person, and potentially an IT person if a firefighter currently is supervising IT.”

“There will be nothing easy or cheap in stabilizing an organization facing these issues,” Weninger wrote to Dunkel. “From what I know,

and I am certain there are many more pressing issues, this stabilization will be very complex and time-consuming.”

In his report that he will make to the board on Sept. 12, Dunkel and the SDAO presented three primary options. Each plan was framed on how the district will manage over the course of the next nine to twelve months.

Options:

1. To appoint one of Hari or Palmer to the position of interim fire chief.

2. Working jointly with a neighboring or larger regional district. “Potentially, the regional or neighboring district could fill some of the gaps created by recent and announced staff departures and assist CRFR Board/staff/labor in calming financial and opera

Family Estate Sale

9/15 & 9/16 from 9-4 at 62122 Gensman Rd., St.

stated.

3. Working with existing administrative staff. “Continuing to work with the current Acting in Capacity Fire Chief Jimmy Sanchez should be considered. There may be other individuals within the organization willing to occupy management roles during this time also,” the report stated.

The SDAO said the three options for the board

ate, and then determine a course of action. Dunkel said he and the SDAO will listen to the concerns of the board with their proposals, but they hope one of the options will be agreeable. “We will listen to the concerns of the board with the ones not selected and determine what are our next steps,” Dunkel said.

“We are hopeful one of the options outlined will gain

CH23-1425

NOTICE OF EXPIRATION

PUBLIC NOTICE

is hereby given that the two-year period for the redemption of real properties included in the 2021 delinquent tax lien foreclosure proceedings instituted by Columbia County, Oregon, on August 18,2021 in the Circuit Court of the State of

CH23-1426

Oregon for Columbia County, Case No. 21CV33291, and included in the General Judgment entered therein on September 20, 2021 will expire on September 20, 2023. All properties ordered sold under the General Judgment, unless redeemed on or before September 20, 2023

will be deeded to Columbia County, Oregon immediately on expiration of the period of redemption, and every right and interest of any person in such properties will be forfeited forever to Columbia County, Oregon. Mary Ann Guess, Columbia County Tax Collector.

REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS: PORT OF COLUMBIA COUNTY MULTNOMAH INDUSTRIAL PARK NEW BUILDING PROJECT

The Port of Columbia County is seeking proposals for a new 10,320 SF maintenance building with site improvements in St. Helens, Oregon. Bid packets containing the RFP with plans and

CH23-1428

specifications for this project may be found on the Port’s website, www.portofcolumbiacounty.org; obtained from the Port Offices located at 100 E. St., Columbia City, from 8:00 to 5:00, M-F;

or requested via e-mail at house@portofcolumbiacounty.org. Submissions must be received by 4:00 PM on Friday, October 6, 2023. For questions, please call 503928-3259

PUBLIC NOTICE - INVITATION TO BID

Goble Substation Fence

Improvements Notice is hereby given that Columbia River People’s Utility District (PUD) will receive sealed bids for Goble Substation Fence Improvements at 32723 Bishop Rd. Rainier, OR 97048. Bids will be received by the PUD, 64001 Columbia River Highway, Deer Island, Oregon 97054 until 3:30 p.m., pacific prevailing time, on October 11, 2023, at which time the

bids will be publicly opened. The bids will be available for public inspection at the PUD office after the bid opening. The bid documents may be examined at the office of the PUD, 64001 Columbia River Highway, Deer Island, Oregon 97054. Paper or electronic copies of the bid documents may be obtained by sending a written request to Columbia River PUD. P.O. Box 1193, St. Helens, Oregon, 97051, or by visiting

the PUD Website at https:// www.crpud.net/my-pud/ bid-documents/. Columbia River PUD reserves the right to reject any and all bids that are not in compliance with the bid documents and prescribed public bidding procedures and to reject, for good cause, any or all bids upon a finding by the PUD that it is in the public interest to do so. Dated: September 11, 2023 at Columbia River People’s Utility District.

The Public Notice deadline is Fridays by noon.

Late submissions are not guaranteed to make it into the paper.

WEATHER

From Page A1

temperatures, more of the precipitation in the mountains that usually comes down as snow in winter is likely to fall as rain instead. For communities and aquatic species that rely on mountain snowpack to hold onto precipitation that then melts and flows as water in spring, it could mean a much drier spring.

“We’ve had a very dry summer,” he said. “If we have below average snowpack, that could potentially exacerbate

drought conditions.”

Effect on ocean

The warmer water that El Niño brings has more volume, likely causing higher tides and the potential for coastal flooding, according to Jack Barth, a physical oceanographer and executive director of the Marine Studies Initiative at Oregon State University. Barth and other scientists expect the sea level off the Oregon coast to rise this winter due to El Niño.

On Tuesday, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration projected

some coastal flooding in areas along the West Coast through the winter. On top of that, Oregon’s fearsest coastal storms occur in winter, along with the biggest tides of the year called “King Tides.” El Niño could amplify them. “Houses built too close to a cliff or slope can be undermined with a fair bit of erosion,” Barth said. This fall and winter are also likely to be trying times for Oregon’s sea life. About 50 miles off the coast, a mass of warm ocean water that’s been growing for the last six months has been kept from the shore due to “upwelling.” Wind from the

CH23-1427

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

Probate Department In the Matter of the Estate of EILEEN LOIS WELKER, Deceased. Case No. 23PB07231 NOTICE TO INTERESTED PERSONS. Proceedings for this estate have been commenced. Claims against the estate may be presented to the personal representative listed below. Any person who has a claim against the estate must present the claim to the personal representative not later than four months after the

CH23-1419

date of the first publication of this notice at the following address: 52490 Southeast Second Street, Suite 100, Scappoose, OR 97056. Any claim not presented within this time period may be barred. All persons whose rights may be affected by the estate proceeding may obtain additional information from the records of the Court, the personal representative, or the attorney for the personal representative. Dated and first published on: September

13, 2023. Mary D. Hodson, Personal Representative, 5750 NW Spring Creek Road, Prineville, OR 97754, Phone: (541) 815-0508 Attorney for Personal Representative: Aaron J. Trukositz, OSB No. 204618, LOWER COLUMBIA LAW GROUP LLC, 52490 Southeast Second Street, Suite 100, Scappoose, Oregon 97056, Phone: (503) 543-4800, Fax: (888) 543-4806, Email: aaron@lowercolumbialaw. com.

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

Probate Department In the Matter of the Estate of HELEN BERNICE SMITH, Deceased. Case No. 23PB05949 NOTICE TO INTERESTED PERSONS Proceedings for this estate have been commenced. Claims against the estate may be presented to the personal representative listed below. Any person who has a claim against the estate must present the claim to the personal representative not later than four months

CH23-1424

after the date of the first publication of this notice at the following address: 52490 Southeast Second Street, Suite 100, Scappoose, OR 97056. Any claim not presented within this time period may be barred. All persons whose rights may be affected by the estate proceeding may obtain additional information from the records of the Court, the personal representative, or the attorney for the personal representative. Dated and

first published on: August 30, 2023. Theresa M. Smith, Personal Representative, 374 North 8th, St. Helens, OR 97051, Phone: (503) 3961535. Attorney for Personal Representative: Aaron J. Trukositz, OSB No. 204618, LOWER COLUMBIA LAW GROUP LLC, 52490 Southeast Second Street, Suite 100, Scappoose, Oregon 97056, Phone: (503) 5434800, Fax: (888) 543-4806, Email: aaron@lowercolumbialaw.com.

“REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS: PORT OF COLUMBIA COUNTY MOWING SERVICES”

The Port of Columbia County is seeking proposals for Mowing and Yard Services at various Port facilities. Interested contractors may obtain the RFP

north pushes warm surface water off of the Oregon coast, allowing colder water from below to rise and replace it.

In early October, the winds that cause that upwelling will die down, and that warm water off the coast will be able to move onto shore, according to Barth. Ocean temperatures off the coast are expected to rise as much as 15 degrees Fahrenheit. In past years when such heat blobs have formed and moved to shore, coastal ocean temperatures shot up within a day or two.

“Which is remarkable,” Barth said. “Imagine you’re

cRosswoRd Puzzle

documents from the Port’s website, www.portofcolumbiacounty.org; from the Port Office located at 100 E. Street, Columbia City, from 8:00 to 5:00pm; or via e-mail

in your house, and it’s 50 degrees or so Farenheit, and then instantly it goes to 70. That’s what these marine organisms are going to feel.”

Vulnerable species that survive will likely move farther North.

“We’re seeing things up here we don’t normally see. We see these pelagic crabs from Baja; tuna we don’t normally see,” he said.

Plankton, the base of the marine food web, are particularly sensitive to heat changes. If plankton suffer, the salmon that eat them suffer and the animals that eat the salmon suffer.

at house@portofcolumbiacounty.org. Submissions must be received by 5:00 on Friday, September 22, 2023. For questions, please call 503-928-3259.

“The effects reverberate for years,” Barth said.

https://oregoncapitalchronicle.com/2023/09/06/ very-strong-el-nino-to-bringwarmer-winter-with-scorching-ocean-water-for-marinelife/ 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.

STATEPOINT CROSSWORD

THEME: OCEAN DWELLERS

ACROSS

1. Kind of wrap

6. Pose a question

9. Be sore

13. Ottoman title

14. Ornamental ponddweller

15. Florida Key, e.g.

16. Mr. T and friends

17. Knot-tying vow (2 words)

18. Milan’s La ____

19. *Walrus’ cousin (2 words)

21. *Crustacean “on the barbie”

23. Finish line

24. Creole vegetable

25. He had

28. Gives a helping hand

30. Tranquil

35. Frosts, as in cake

37. Bear, in Latin

39. All the words in a language

40. “By ____, I think she’s got it!”

41. Silver to Lone Ranger

43. Chows down

44. Mark Twain to Samuel Langhorne Clemens

46. Toupee spot

47. Pestilence pest

48. Singer Eilish

50. Rub the wrong way

52. Yoda: “Do or do not. There is no ____”

53. *A type of whale or the color of many dolphins

55. Overnight lodging

57. *Inspiration for a certain pineapple dweller

60. *Inspiration for Mar-

vel’s Doc Ock

64. South American juice

flavor

65. Bearded antelope

67. All thumbs

68. Pineda of Journey

69. Stomach pain-causing acronym

70. Hundred, in Italian

71. Hammer part

72. Not stood

73. Bar, legally

DOWN

1. R&R destinations

2. Angie Thomas’ “The ____ U Give”

3. Seaward

4. *Cetology object of study

5. Thin layer

6. *Like green sea turtle and loggerhead sea turtle

7. Grass “carpet”

8. Newsstand, e.g.

9. Fungal spore sacs

10. *Edible bivalve

11. S.O.S.

12. Pilot’s estimate, acr.

15. Netanyahu’s country

20. Abomination

22. 9 to 5, e.g.

24. Bone burial spot

25. Muslim woman’s headscarf

26. Cause for food recall

27. a.k.a. Lucifer

29. Between stop and roll

31. *Coral polyps’ structure

32. Raise one’s rank

33. Potassium nitrate

34. Student’s request for ChatGPT?

36. *#19 Across’ earless cousin

38. Hostile to

42. Opposite of ecbatic

45. Smoke, sometimes

49. Energy unit

51. Attract

54. Front of cuirass

56. Religiously unaffiliated, pl.

57. Confident answer

58. Glazier’s unit

59. Baker’s baker

60. Give a boot

61. Closely confined

62. Plotting 63. “____! In the Name of Love”

64. Year off in school

66. Giannis’ league

St. Helens and Scappoose football update

Ribbon cutting

WILL LOHRE Country Media, Inc.

The St. Helens High School Football Team has notched its first win of the season and delivered new Head Coach Nic Shular a resounding victory during their home game against Centennial.

The final score ended 38-7 in front of a raucous St. Helens hometown crowd.

Powered by the fans and the faithful band in the stands, the Lions jumped out to an early lead and never looked back.

On the opening kick of the game, the St. Helens special teams started the game with a statement, ripping the ball away from the Centennial returner and taking it back the other way for the touchdown.

A balanced attack in the first half allowed quarterbacks Andrew Waite and Aaron Liebelt to slice open the Centennial secondary during the second quarter.

The defense was relentless through the early stages, giving Centennial challenges as they tried to advance up the field.

Multiple forced turnovers in the first half embodied the resolve of a defense that gave the Centennial offense trouble all night long. As the sun set over Doc Akerson Stadium at about the halfway mark of the game, the Lions were practically out of sight, boasting more than a 20-point lead.

The victory will give a boost to the Lions going forward when they play Parkrose at home on Sept. 15. Despite the victory, St. Helens is still ranked only 26 of the 32 4A teams, according to OSAA.

The contest with Parkrose will be a welcome challenge, as the opposition is currently ranked 19, despite starting 0-2 due to losses against Cleveland and Milwaukie / Milwaukie Acad. of the Arts.

With two non-league

opponents left before the critical league component of the schedule, St. Helens will try and take the opportunity to grow against less familiar competition. The non-league games will give Shular a good indication of what needs his team will have as they try and make a push for the playoffs later this fall.

Scappoose gets revenge

Scappoose High School Football got to enjoy some measure of revenge during their 23-18 win against reigning 4A state champions Estacada on Sept. 7. Estacada knocked Scappoose out in the semifinals of last year’s state tournament, and this non-league game gave the Indians an opportunity to exercise some of last year’s frustrations.

The Indians jumped out to a 23-0 lead and then found themselves having to hang on as Estacada scored 18 unanswered over the

rest of the game. While the Indians may have wanted to finish the game on a stronger note, a win is a win, and to beat Estacada away from home is a great result. With a 2-0 record, Scappoose is now ranked 15, according to OSAA. They’ll hope to continue climbing the rankings as their Cowapa League games approach.

Scappoose will next take the field against 5A program Hood River Valley. Hood River Valley has mixed results in its first two games, going 1-1. On the back of two strong wins, Scappoose will go into the game with a shot to take down a Hood River Valley program with a larger student pool to pull from.

Scappoose will play Hood River Valley on Sept. 15 on their home turf.

Find St. Helens and Scappoose High School football results at OSAA. org.

Information about Gold Star Families Highway

Veterans in Colum-

bia County are invited to attend the September 14 meeting of the St. Helens Garden Club to learn about the newly named Gold Star Families Highway in Oregon. We know it as Highway 30, but now we will be honoring Gold Star families who have lost a loved one while serving in the military. The club, along with Columbia City, is currently seeking contributions so that a Gold Star Memorial Marker can be erected at Veteran’s Park in

the future. Oregon State Federation of Garden Clubs Inc. Blue and Gold Star Marker Chairman Jane Sercombe will be presenting information on the Gold Star program and talk about how everyone can become a part of this endeavor locally and about the Memorial Highway designation in Oregon. The gathering begins with refreshments at 11:30 a.m. and a presentation at noon in the Library Auditorium. The address is 375 S. 18th St. in St. Helens.

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Will Lohre / Country Media, Inc.

Skyler Bjornstrom makes the catch for the Lions.

Will Lohre / Country Media, Inc.

The St. Helens crowd and cheerleaders celebrate the third Lions touchdown of the first half.

Courtesy image from South Columbia County Chamber of Commerce Gail Zmok, who owns A Bushel & A Peck Flower Farm at 64383 2nd St. in Deer Island, celebrated the expansion of her farm with a ribbon cutting from the South Columbia County Chamber of Commerce. Zmok is a new member of the chamber and will soon be opening a farm stand to include vegetables, fruit, some plants, and bouquets. Zmok’s goal is to evolve the stand to help local families get some food basics without always having to drive to town.