TCC-623

Heritage Days Car Show revs up festivities

WILL LOHRE Country Media, Inc.

Clatskanie Heritage Days are back, and the festivities will kick off with the annual Heritage Days Car Show in Clatskanie City Park Saturday, June 24.

Gabe Wiggins oversees planning the Car Show for Heritage Days, and he said that they expect between 150 and 200 entries into the show this year.

“Like last year, the Heritage Days Committee has worked

year’s event,” Wiggins said. “Prior to COVID, the Clatskanie Cruisers Car Club organized the event.”

The Heritage Days Car Show is a longstanding tradition, and the Clatskanie Cruisers Car Club organized the event for nearly 30 years before the Heritage Days Committee took over organizing the past two years, according to Wiggins.

Super Saturday

The festivities on Saturday will

the Big Guy parking lot that starts at 7 a.m. and goes until 9 a.m. For those participating in the show, the gates to the park will open at 8:30 a.m. so people can begin parking their cars.

The show is free to spectators and $20 for people showing their vehicles. Wiggins said all proceeds from the event would go back into funding the other Heritage Days activities.

The car show will be held in conjunction with several other

City Park will have food, music, and vendors present during the car show, and there will also be the annual “Pie in the Park” contest sponsored by the Clatskanie Chapter T P.E.O.

“In the park, we will have vendors, music, the P.E.O. “Pie in the Park,” and, of course, the vehicles,” Wiggins said. “Attendees will have the chance to walk through the park and view vehicles from the early 1900s to recent models.”

The car show is scheduled

There will be 23 category trophies awarded to the winning cars in their respective categories. Additionally, entrants and attendees each have the opportunity to help select the People’s Choice Trophy. Attendees can also show their support for individual cars by purchasing a “My Trophy” at the registration tent and awarding it directly.

For “Pie in the Park,” entrants

See HERITAGE Page A3

ODOT announces bridge closure projects

STAFF REPORT

Country Media, Inc.

Nightly single lane closures of the Lewis and Clark Bridge will begin Monday night June 26, as crews prepare for full closure of the bridge in July that could last for as long as eight days, according to the Oregon Department of Transportation (ODOT).

The night single lane closures are a major step in the project to replace two expansion joints and a fractured floor beam on the 93-yearold bridge between Rainier and Longview, Washington.

Closing the only bridge across the Columbia River between Astoria and Portland may create hardships for communities along the river and require residents to reschedule medical and other important appointments.

During the night lane closures, northbound and southbound traffic, controlled by flaggers, will share the open lane and alternate crossings.

The lane closure schedule:

through Fridays.

Saturdays

Sundays.

Tuesday July 5, or on Saturday, July

vation project. It also avoids months of daytime single lane closures that would create congestion throughout Southwest Washington and Northwest Oregon.

Last April 12, bridge inspectors discovered a fractured floor beam resulting in an emergency 12-hour closure. Prior to that discovery, the bridge was scheduled to close for up to six days for the expansion joint replacement work. Because of the April 12 discovery, the closure has been extended to accommodate the additional work of installing a new floor beam.

“Safety is our number one priority during the closure of this critical bridge, for travelers, construction crews and those who need access across the river for life-saving medical care,” said WSDOT Southwest Region Administrator Carley Francis. “We are asking the public to avoid use of the low-capacity Wahkiakum County Ferry in order to prioritize its use for first respond-

$153M to address Oregon’s behavioral health crisis

STAFF REPORT Country Media, Inc.

Oregon legislative leaders have announced the$153 million Behavioral Health Care Delivery Budget Framework.

Contact The Chief

The investments will help strengthen the state’s behavioral health workforce, stabilize mobile crisis funding, and support response and recovery resources to ensure access to high-quality, affordable services for everyone who needs them, according to the legislative leaders.

Part of the framework is House Bill 2757, which passed out of the House Revenue Committee June 20. The bill will expand and build on American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funding and programming for 9-8-8, the national suicide prevention hotline number launched in Oregon in summer 2022—a critical resource for Oregonians experiencing mental health crises, the legislative leaders said. The 2023-2025 Behavioral Health Budget framework builds from the $1.3 billion down payment the legislature made in the 20212022 biennium.

our behavioral health system we must invest in community-based services for Oregonians with acute needs,” Senate Majority Leader Kate Lieber (D - Beaverton and SW Portland) said. “Expanding access requires a continued commitment to improving infrastructure, bolstering successful community models and expanding the workforce.”

“Oregonians were clear that we need to get people the appropri ate, high quality, and affordable care they need, Representative Rob Nosse (D - Inner SE & Inner NE Portland said. “Behavioral health is not one-size-fits-all, and there is no one way to approach it. But with this amazing budget package, we’re investing in key parts of Oregon’s infrastructure to meet people where they are.”

The investments include:

• $2.6 million for recovery schools (House Bill 2767)

• $37.1 million for Oregon Health Authority programming (SB 5525), including:

• $15 million for construction of

Courtesy photo from Cade Brown

Hot rods and vintage cars spread across Clatskanie City Park for the annual Heritage Days event.

Courtesy photo from ODOT

First responders urge fireworks safety

Summer fun is officially here, and the Fourth of July is just around the corner.

For many, fireworks are a sign of celebration, however, there are some important safety measures to consider, according to the Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office (LCSO).

Fireworks, loud sounds, and bright, sudden flashes can trigger vets, pets, and people with PTSD.

If you choose to use fireworks, remember to be considerate of others, consider the time of day and the location, and prioritize safety.

Know the difference and consequences

It is important to know the difference between a legal consumer firework and a dangerous explosive device.

Illegal items in Oregon include any firework that flies into the air, explodes or behaves in an uncontrolled or unpredicted manner. Some examples include firecrackers, torpedoes, skyrockets, Roman candles, bottle rockets, or other items

of similar construction and any item containing explosive or flammable compounds.

Tablets or other devices containing explosive substances or flammable compounds are not legal in Oregon without a permit. Items such as M-80s, M-100s and blockbusters are not fireworks, they are federally banned explosives. They can cause serious injury or even death. Stay away from anything that isn’t clearly labeled with the name of the item, the manufacturer’s name, and instructions for proper use.

Possession of illegal fireworks in Oregon is a Class B Misdemeanor punishable by a fine up to $10,000 and/or six months in jail. If you are aware of anyone selling such devices, contact your local law enforcement agency.

All fireworks are prohibited in all state parks and on ocean beaches. Violations may be punishable by fine.

General firework safety

Read and follow all warnings and instructions on

fireworks. Be sure that people maintain a safe distance from where fireworks are lit. Only light fireworks on a smooth, flat surface away from buildings, dry leaves, and flammable materials -never light and throw any fireworks. Never try to relight fireworks that have not fully functioned. Fireworks are not toys. never give fireworks to children. Close adult supervision of all fireworks activities is mandatory, this includes sparklers.

Pets are more sensitive to loud noises, flashing lights, and strong smells. It is best to leave your pest safely indoors, preferably with a radio or TV turned on to soften sudden noises. If you cannot leave your pet indoors, keep them leashed and under your direct control at all times. Keep your pet’s collar and ID tag on at all times and update your pet’s license with your current contact information in case they get separated from you. If you are traveling and plan to use fireworks, look up local ordinances that may be

in place. Remember to save the address of where you are staying or using the fireworks in case you need to call 911.

Fire prevention

Be aware of your surroundings and weather conditions. Areas are more prone to fires when the weather is warm and windy. Dry landscape greatly increases the likelihood of fire starting, not just from fireworks, but other activities that create sparks or flame.

If you choose to use fireworks, make sure the area is clear of anything flammable such as debris, furniture, and grass or shrubbery. Keep fireworks pointed away from buildings, greenery, and other areas that may catch fire. Keep a bucket of water and a hose ready to respond if needed.

Whether you are lighting fireworks yourself or watching an organized show, know the address so that you can quickly call 911 if a fire starts.

Lincoln City Sheriff’s Office contributed to this report

Local man bringing Pride to Vernonia

first official Pride events to be held in Columbia County. This year, Calhoun is organizing a Pride event in Vernonia on June 30.

Calhoun has a background in activism and was motivated to coordinate the event in his hometown when it became apparent that local organizers didn’t have a plan for another event this year.

Michael Calhoun

June is Pride Month, and across the country, communities are coming together to celebrate lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender Pride.

Last June, Vernonia local Michael Calhoun and a Columbia County progressive group called “Moving Forward” organized a Pride demonstration and celebration in St. Helens that took place on June 25. According to Calhoun, it’s one of the

“We were happy to have that last year, that was in St. Helens. This year the folks that were there weren’t looking at planning it this year; they’re doing different things. But being in Vernonia, I wanted to have something in my hometown,” Calhoun said. “That’s what I’m really excited about, is that we’re finally going to have that here on June 30.”

While Calhoun expects that those who attend will primarily be from Vernonia because that’s where it’s based, he said everyone in Columbia County and beyond is welcome.

The event will take place at Spencer’s Park in Vernonia from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. on Friday, June 30, featuring food, music, and drinks.

Calhoun hopes that events like this, and last year’s demonstration in St. Helens, will offer a blueprint to communities in the future to host their own Pride events.

Pride in small communities

When asked what Calhoun expected the event to look like, Calhoun said he expects a small event in line with the size of the community.

“It’s a small town, so I imagine it will be a small event, but I find, oftentimes, that small events are the ones where you really get to connect with people,” Calhoun said. “It opens up a space for the queer community or straight allies that haven’t really had that here. Definitely, historically, not in rural areas.”

The community has been supportive of Calhoun throughout his organizing of the event. Calhoun said there have been largely positive reactions in the community and online.

The event will allow the LGBTQ community and the community at large to

come together and “talk, celebrate, protest; it’s kind of all in one,” according to Calhoun.

One of the important components of Pride for Calhoun is the message that these events send that people can be comfortable being themselves no matter where they are. Calhoun said that for queer people growing up in rural areas, sometimes the only outlets seem to be moving to a larger city with more diversity.

“I think part of what these Pride events, especially, are now focusing on is you should be able to live and thrive in your hometown. That you can have fulfilled life and not have to hide yourself,” Calhoun said. “You should just be who you are everywhere, you know, no matter what state, county, or city.”

Calhoun said that the motivation for planning this event is bringing awareness to inequalities that exist in America for the LGBTQ community.

“It’s branded as the country of the free, but

free for who? For the queer community, you have to think about what state is safe for you; it’s kind of like a checkerboard map. Every state has a different level of protections,” Calhoun said. “What we would be arguing for is that every state should have the universal protections. This would mean you can’t be fired for being gay, you can’t be denied housing or healthcare, or if you’re walking downtown with your partner holding hands, and you’re assaulted, then that person should be charged with no less than a hate crime.”

Calhoun said that in 20 states in the U.S. right now, those protections don’t exist. Calhoun said this event, and those like it, send the message that it is “not acceptable anywhere.” Calhoun said while the event is intended to be a celebration and positive event, he wanted to be sure to mention that this year there have been a “historic number of anti-queer, LGBTQ passed in all these state houses.”

History of Pride

Pride is an annual celebration of lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer (LGBTQ) identities commemorating the Stonewall Riots, a series of violent confrontations that began in the early hours of June 28, 1969, between police and gay rights activists outside the Stonewall Inn, a gay bar in the Greenwich Village section of New York City, according to Encyclopedia Britannica.

In the 60s, gay rights activism was a part of the United States counterculture. Gay people could not legally marry, faced discrimination in public accommodations, and were barred from holding political office. U.S. politicians declared homosexuality a “perversion,” and U.S. President Dwight D. Eisenhower passed a law banning gay people from holding federal jobs, History. com reports.

Today, Pride is celebrated worldwide and serves as a reminder of the LGBTQ+ community’s plight to obtain equal rights.

50-cent surcharge on alcohol for mental health services nixed

LYNNE TERRY

Oregon Capital Chronicle

Chronicle Guest Article

Gov. Tina Kotek has dropped her request for the Oregon Liquor and Cannabis Commission to add another 50-cent surcharge to bottles of alcohol to fund mental health and addiction services.

She asked for the surcharge in her February budget. But on Wednesday, she sent a letter to the commission’s board, saying the tax was no longer needed.

“Since my recommended budget was originally released, there have been two revenue forecasts indicating there will be sufficient resources to fund essential services in the next biennium without the sur-

charge,” she wrote. “Additionally, I have been clear that I only support a new surcharge if the funds are directly allocated to behavioral health services. Without further specific action by the Legislature this session, any surcharge approved by the commission would go into the general fund with no designated purpose, undermining the purpose of the recommendation.”

The Legislature has yet to pass a budget due to the continuing Republican-led walkout in the state Senate, which has brought floor votes to a halt. They object to a bill to expand access to genderaffirming care and guarantee abortion rights for minors. The session has to end by June 25, and a continuing stalemate will

leave hundreds of bills on the table.

The surcharge would have doubled the tax on bottles of hard alcohol, raising $90 million over the next two years for behavioral health care and addiction services. The proposal was supported by advocates, primarily Oregon Recovers, a Portland-based group that supports people in recovery. The group’s executive director, Mike Marshall, said in a statement that Oregon Recovers was disappointed by the decision.

“Oregon must change its destructive relationship with alcohol and raising the price of distilled spirits is the single, most effective action the OLCC can take to end Oregon’s alcohol addiction

crisis,” Marshall said. “The Liquor Control Act empowers and mandates the OLCC protect Oregon taxpayers from the economic damage caused by alcohol consumption and protect Oregon consumers from the devastating health consequences due to the current industry-friendly pricing structure. OLCC commissioners must stop prioritizing their personal financial interests over what is in the best interest of all Oregonians.”

The tax was opposed by many in the liquor industry, who said it would have a major impact on their revenue. The commission had been gathering public comments on the tax and was due to vote on it on Thursday, June 15. A spokesman also did

not respond to a request for comment by mid-afternoon Thursday.

The pullback drew praise from the industry. Tom Burkleaux, president of the Oregon Distillers Guild, released a statement thanking Kotek for her decision.

“We appreciate the governor’s office has listened to Oregon’s craft distillers about how this proposed increase would disproportionately hurt our local producers that make higher-cost, premium products,” the statement said. “This surcharge increase would have had a detrimental effect on our smaller Oregon businesses, which cannot absorb a price increase compared to larger out of state brands.”

Burkleaux said industry ex-

ecutives were willing to work on alcohol and drug addiction.

“This is a multifaceted challenge that requires the commitment of many stakeholders, including those in Oregon’s craft alcohol industries,” the statement said.

A December 2021 nationwide survey showed that Oregon has the fifth-highest rate of alcohol addiction in the country, the second-highest rate for drug addiction and the second-highest rate of mental illness.

Kotek said in her letter that improving mental health services remains a priority for her administration, and she called on continuing discussions with the commission on how it can “better support” behavioral health services.

Courtesy photo from the LCSO

If you choose to use fireworks, remember to be considerate of others, consider the time of day and the location, and prioritize safety.

WILL LOHRE Country Media, Inc.

Courtesy from Michael Calhoun

One killed in Highway 30 traffic crash

STAFF REPORT

Country Media, Inc.

One person has died in a two-vehicle cash along Highway 30 in Columbia County. Oregon State Police (OSP) responded to the crash site on Highway 30 at milepost 41 at approximately 516 a.m. On Tuesday, June 20.

According to OSP, the preliminary investigation indicates an eastbound brown Honda CR-V, operated by

BRIDGE

34-year-old Jason Ray Bennett, of Clatskanie, crossed the centerline for an unknown reason. Upon crossing into the westbound lane, the brown Honda CR-V collided head-on with a westbound white 2022 Chevrolet Silverado, operated by 50-yearold Gregory Alan Woodall Jr, of Deer Island.

The operator of the brown Honda CR-V (Bennett) was declared deceased at the scene. The operator of the

white Chevrolet Silverado (Woodall Jr.) was determined to be uninjured and was cooperative with the investigation.

The roadway was impacted for approximately 4.5 hours during the on-scene investigation. Columbia River Fire & Rescue, Columbia County Sheriff’s Office, and the Oregon Department of Transportation assisted OSP at the crash site.

From Page A1

During the following times travelers should expect longer delays and congestion due to nighttime single lane closures:

• 8 p.m. to 7 a.m. Sunday through Friday.

HEALTH

From Page A1 ers, healthcare workers and patients needing medical care who can’t wait.”

Construction schedule

The full closure of the Lewis and Clark Bridge for up to eight days begins at 8 p.m. on Sunday, July 16.

Emergency vehicles – including only ambulances with active critical medical needs or law enforcement emergency response – can use the bridge during the closure except when crews install the new floor beam. This work will take place soon after the start of the July 16 closure.

Due to safety, no park and ride facilities are available.

There will be no single lane closures during the Fourth of July holiday weekend, Friday, June 30 to Tuesday, July 4, or Saturday July 8 for Rainier Days.

For the safety of travelers and the construction crew, the work zone will have reduced speed limits.

Plan for longer travel times

HERITAGE

From Page A1

should bring their pies to the snack shack between 9 and 9:30 a.m. on Saturday, June 24. Judging will begin at 10 a.m., and winners will be announced at approximately 12 noon.

There will also be two raffles that will take place during the event. One is a 50/50 raffle, and the other is exclusively for owners of registered vehicles in the show.

“At 2:30, we will draw the winners for the 50/50 raffle, the winner of the raffle for those with registered vehicles, award 23 category trophies, and the People’s Choice Award,”

• 8 p.m. to 8 a.m. Friday to Saturday.

• 8 p.m. to 9 a.m. Saturday to Sunday.

Plan ahead for lengthy detours

During the closure, all traffic crossing the Columbia River will detour to either U.S. 101 Astoria-Megler Bridge between Astoria and Megler, Washington or the Interstate Bridge on Interstate 5 between Vancouver and Portland.

Ferry service

The Wahkiakum County Ferry between Cathlamet, Washington and Westport will run twice an hour, 24 hours a day while the bridge is closed. This ferry has extremely limited capacity and its use should be reserved for urgent matters that do not require an ambu-

lance. A priority lane will be established and enforced to accommodate ambulances and first responders on return trips from the hospital in Longview; healthcare and first responder commutes to work; and medical needs like chemotherapy or other critical but non-emergency medical appointments. All other travelers should expect hours of lengthy wait times and long lines.

Medical access

Depending on where people begin and end their travel, using the detour routes can add upwards of two and a half hours of travel time. People who use the SR 433 Lewis and Clark Bridge to access scheduled medical services should plan their travel time with this in mind and contact their providers to confirm or reschedule their appointments.

The traveling public can stay up-to-date on bridge repair news and closure dates may subscribe to email alerts for this project.

For real time traffic updates in Oregon go to TripCheck.com.

additional substance use disorder (SUD) facility capacity

• $7 million for Civil commitment services through Community Mental Health (CMHP) Programs

• $6 million for transitional case management services for houseless patients released from the Oregon State Hospital

• $6 million to expand the Health Care Provider Incentive Program (HCPIP)

• $3.1 million to advance training opportunities for pediatricians and child psychiatrists

• House Bill 2757 – dedicating funding for the 9-8-8, the suicide prevention and behavioral health crisis hotline

• House Bill 5026 –Higher Education Coordinating Commission

• $5.4 million – OHSU Mission Control for behavioral health

• $10 million through the Criminal Justice Commission to fund justice-involved mental health or substance abuse disorders (IMPACTS) grants (Senate Bill 5506)

• $4.9 million to Oregon

Health Authority to fund jail diversion through CMHPs (Senate Bill 5506)

• $3 million for Department of Administrative Services to resource the Community Based Mental Health Services Risk Pool (Senate Bill 5506)

• $50 million to build out physical and provider capacity within the behavioral health system

• $40 million Other Funds limitation for opioid settlement investment in the 202325 biennium

The legislative leaders said several of the bills have already passed the floor or are part of various policy bundles, highlighting the intersectionality of the legislature’s work to address the behavioral health crisis from multiple angles this session.

“As a Registered Nurse, I have seen people of all different backgrounds, needs, and states come into care centers,” said “This budget means we can get people individualized, equitable care no matter who they are, where they live, or how much they make,”

Representative Travis Nelson (D - N & NE Portland), vice chair of the Behavioral Health

and Healthcare Committee and a State Hospital Board Member said.

Additional funding will be set aside for increased Medicaid reimbursement rates for behavioral health services to support the rising costs and high demand for care, with the goal of increasing access to high-quality services throughout Oregon.

By leveraging an existing and steady stream of funding, the legislative leaders said the can ensure certainty for providers, and in turn, for patients and their families.

“Oregonians are calling out for greater investment in behavioral health,” Senator Wlnsvey Campos (D - Aloha) said. “This package will provide meaningful relief to Oregonians with behavioral health needs and their families, by improving access to life saving and life changing care.”

“Behavioral health crises deserve appropriate, timely, and expert response,” Representative Tawna Sanchez (D - N & NE Portland), co-chair of Joint Ways and Means said. “This 988 allocation is a step in the right direction towards institutionalizing mobile crisis response funding.”

Wiggins said. In addition to all the fun going on in Clatskanie City Park, there is more going on around town. There will be a free swim at the Clatskanie Pool from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m., giving people a chance to cool off after a long day at the park.

Additionally, as with all Saturdays during the summer months, the Clatskanie Farmer’s Market will be happening from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. in Cope’s Park, where people will have access to a host of local artisans, vendors, and producers. With all of the activity planned, this weekend promises a robust beginning to the 2023 Heritage Days celebration, but Wiggins was sure to mention that

this would not be possible without all the people behind the scenes making it happen.

“This event is made possible by the incredible volunteers that make up the Heritage Days Committee and those that assist on the day of the show,” Wiggins said. “A big thank you also goes out to our trophy sponsors and the CTE program at Clatskanie High School, who made the trophies.”

Heritage Days will continue July 1, 2, and 3, all leading up to the cornucopia of activities on July 4.

Follow our coverage of Clatskanie Heritage Days at thechiefnews.com and in the Friday print editions of The Chief.

Rainier Clatskanie Youth Soccer Club

Contact Tiffany Culbertson at 503-298-7295 or Darci Tiani at 412-498-6181 for more information.

Jeremy Ruark / Country Media, Inc. Over the years, car buffs have assembled their vehicles for a sky-high photo that has appeared in The Chief to promote the event.

Walkout problem needs a constitutional solution

RANDY STAPILUS

Oregon Capital Chronicle

Chief Guest Column

It’s time to acknowledge, after watching this year’s Oregon legislative session, that Plan B didn’t work, and Oregon needs to try Plan A.

Both plans concern the same problem: Just over a third of the state’s legislators in the House or Senate can prevent that chamber from assembling a quorum, without which it can conduct no business.

In recent years, and at present, the minority keeping the state from doing its job has been Republican. Further in the past, that has been, and possibly at some point in the future could be, Democrats. Either way, there now is no reason to believe that any discontented group amounting to slightly more than a third of the seats of either legislative chamber has any incentive to allow the state’s business to be conducted if it wants to block a proposal it opposes.

This happens because

Article 4, Section 12 of the Oregon constitution says, “Two thirds of each house shall constitute a quorum to

do business, but a smaller number may meet; adjourn from day to day, and compel the attendance of absent members.”

That part about compelling hasn’t worked very well.

The current setup is a recipe for destruction of a third of Oregon’s state government, since one party or the other will always be in the minority. The quorumdenying tactic now is being used so regularly – over simple differences of policy or philosophy – that it is eroding the ability of the state to operate.

An overwhelming majority of Oregon’s voters appear to see it that way. Last November, after a string of quorum-killing walkouts in recent years, a group of petitioners offered Measure 113 in an effort to end the practice. It amends the state constitution so that any legislator who racks up 10 or more unexcused absences in a session is disqualified from serving in the Legislature in the following term. The measure got approval from 68.3% of the voters.

Probably most of those voters, and apparently most political watchers around

the state, thought the penalty would be strong enough to end the walkouts. It wasn’t, as Oregonians now know: 10 senators (nine Republicans and one independent) have stayed away more than 10 working days, without excuse, thereby triggering last year’s penalty against them, barring them from serving as a legislator after their current term. That done, there’s no more penalty to impose.

The striking legislators say they are unbowed and will

allow no work this session (including on bills they themselves support) except for the state budget, and no path if the Democrats insist on maintaining certain bills, including House Bill 2002 on abortion rights and genderaffirming care, as they are now. That so many Republicans (and one aligned Independent) proved so willing to give up their seats was widely unexpected and also remarkable. It provides the clear evidence that Measure

113 has failed. The good news is that, all along, it was Plan B. Time has come now to take another crack at Plan A.

The right way to approach the two-thirds quorum problem from the beginning would have involved a constitutional amendment, but more directly: Change the two third requirement in the constitution section quoted above, to a simple majority (50% plus one). That would allow just over half of either chamber to conduct business.

It’s easy to understand, clear and would solve the problem.

It’s also been discussed before, at length.

In 2019, amid another walkout, then-state Senator Ginny Burdick said she would promote a proposed constitutional amendment to set the Legislature’s quorums – for each body – at a simple majority for each chamber (16 members of the Senate or 31 members of the House).

Just such a resolution to amend the constitution with a popular vote was introduced early in 2020 and progressed through a public hearing and work session. Then steam

seemed to run out of the effort, and it died in committee without reaching the Senate floor.

Another bill is now being proposed by Reps. Khanh Pham of Portland and David Gomberg of Otis. The idea is not radical. Oregon currently is an outlier when it comes to the quorum numbers. Among the 50 states, only four states –Oregon, Indiana, Tennessee and Texas – mandate two thirds. (Is it coincidental that all four have experienced troubled legislative sessions this year?)

The Oregon Legislature this year probably won’t be able to act to place a constitutional amendment on the ballot, but the same forces that developed the petition campaign for Measure 113 last year, and pushed through its approval, probably could. Or someone else could step forward. Either way, if Oregonians expect to have their ballotexpressed will carried out at the statehouse, the next step is obvious.

Randy Stapilus is a columnist for the Oregon Capital Chronicle.

Accommodation, food services adds 4,800 jobs

Oregon’s unemployment rate dropped to 3.7% in May, down from 4.0% in April, according to the latest Oregon Employment Department survey. This was the fourth consecutive monthly drop in the unemployment rate, down from a recent high of 4.8% in January.

The May rate was similar to rates in February through May 2022, when it ranged from 3.5% to 3.7%. Oregon’s May unemployment rate of 3.7% equaled the U.S. unemployment rate, which rose to 3.7% in May from 3.4% in April.

In May, Oregon’s seasonally adjusted nonfarm payroll employment rose by 3,600 jobs, following a revised gain of 500 jobs in April. Overthe-month gains were largest in financial activities (+1,200 jobs), leisure and hospitality (+1,100), and transportation, warehousing, and utilities

(+1,000). Declines were largest in retail trade (-500 jobs) and government (-300). Since May 2022, Oregon has added 39,100 nonfarm payroll jobs (+2.0%).

Leisure and hospitality, while still adding jobs, has grown at a slower rate during the past 12 months than during its rapid partial recovery during much of 2020 and 2021. Its component industry, accommodation and food services, which employed 177,000 in May, added 4,800 jobs in the past 12 months. Meanwhile, arts, entertainment, and recreation, which employed 27,600 in May, added 2,800 jobs in that time. Despite these recent gains, leisure and hospitality is still 11,900 jobs (-5%) below where it was in February 2020, just prior to the Pandemic Recession.

Professional and business services job gains have decelerated over the past

Do you believe legislative efforts to allow self-service gasoline in Oregon are fair and safe?

year. It added 5,200 jobs since May 2022, growing at the same rate of 2.0% as Oregon’s total nonfarm payroll employment. But at a total of 268,000 jobs in May, professional and business services is well above its pre-recession peak figure of 257,700 jobs in February 2020.

Local government, at 229,700 jobs in May, was back near its pre-recession total. This sector, which includes schools and city and county governments, took about three years to fully rebound from the Pandemic Recession cutbacks during 2020.

Retail trade employment ticked down 500 jobs in May. Industry employment has been steady recently, coming in at 208,800 in May, which was close to its jobs totals of 2017 through 2023, with the exception of the recession-induced plunge of 2020.

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Courtesy from Amanda Loman / Oregon Capital Chronicle Flags on a desk in the Senate at the Oregon State Capitol in Salem on Wednesday, Feb. 15, 2023.

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Spring has sprung and it’s planting season again

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502

Help Wanted

TRAINING & CERTIFICATION

COORDINATOR

Columbia 9-1-1 Communications District (C911CD) is conducting a hiring process for a Training & Certification Coordinator. Apply online at www. columbia911.com/ careers. Additional information can be found on our website or by calling 503-369-6978.

Department Secretary Columbia County, OR EOE Deadline 7/14/2023 Apply at ColumbiaCountyOR.gov.

Corrections Sergeant Columbia County, OR EOE Deadline 7/14/2023 Apply at ColumbiaCounty OR.gov.

Pre Trial Services Specialist Columbia County, OR EOE Deadline 7/14/2023 Apply at ColumbiaCounty OR.gov.

860 Storage

CLATSKANIE Mini Storage

Having a Garage Sale? Contact The Chief at 503-397-0116 or chronicleclassifieds@countrymedia.net to get your garage sale in the classifieds.

CC23-1805

Clatskanie People’s Utility District is seeking a GIS Analyst

This position will be responsible for the development, maintenance, and validation of GIS data for use in the implementation and tracking of electrical facilities and processes throughout the District’s service area.

To help extend the life of Clatskanie PUD power poles, Davey Resource Group has been contracted to conduct our pole test and treat program for 2021. They will be working on our poles on the following roads and the surrounding areas: Swedetown Rd, Olson Rd, Alder Grove Rd, Lindberg Rd, Cedar Grove Rd, & Lost Creek. For questions or concerns, please call 503-728-2163.

Ideal Candidate! A driven, enthusiastic individual who is detail-oriented to provide GIS data system administration and strives to fulfill the District’s Vision Statement to: “Benefit our customers through innovation and adaptability.”

estate are required to present their claims, with vouchers attached, within four months after the date of first publication of this notice to the personal representative at P. O. Box 459, Rainier, OR 97048, information from the records of the Court, the personal representative or the attorney for the personal representative. Dated and first published June 9, 2023. S/Gabriel Shefstad Gabriel Shefstad Personal Representative STEPHEN D. PETERSEN, L.L.C. Attorney at Law P. O. Box 459 Rainier, OR 97048

NOTICE OF STREET SWEEPING The Public Notice deadline is Wednesdays by noon. Late submissions are not guaranteed to make it into the paper.

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE STATE OF OREGON FOR THE COUNTY OF COLUMBIA CC23-1809 A full City Street Sweeping is scheduled for Tuesday and Wednesday, June 27th and 28th, starting early in the morning. If possible, please park vehicles in your driveways and garages, and not on city streets from 4 am through 5 pm.

Sept. 22-24 Wings Over Willapa Festival

The Friends of Willapa National Wildlife Refuge and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service 5th annual Wings Over Willapa. This multi-day bird and art festival will be held at 7112 67th Place in Long Beach. For more details, call 360-642-3860.

Ongoing

Clatskanie Senior Center

lunches

Now served Monday, Wednesday, and Friday at noon at the Castle Cafe, 620 SW Tichenor. Call 503-7283608 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,

ommu N ity e

includes Clatskanie Historical Society museum. Call Debbie at 503-338-8268.

Volunteers Needed

The City of St. Helens has partnered with Columbia County and is seeking volunteers to help with a 6-week Pickleball program at Campbell Park starting midJune on Sunday afternoons. If interested, please contact, Casey Garrett: casey. garrett@columbiacountyor. gov - or - Shanna Duggan at sduggan@sthelensoregon. gov

Caples Evening Programs

The cost for this evening and all our Fireside Chats will be only $5. Caples will be offering a different program the third Tuesday of each month at 7 p.m. at

1925 First Street in Columbia City. For more information, call 503-397-5390.

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.

The Rainier Oregon Historical Museum (ROHM) is open from noon - 4 p.m. Saturday (except major holidays weekends). ROHM is located inside Rainier City Hall at 106 W B Street. For more information, call 360751-7039.

James Earl Davis

Jan. 26, 1944 ~ May 13, 2023

The Rainier Public Librar y 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.

Avamere at St. Helens hosts a Virtual Dementia Support Group – 3rd Wednesday of each month from 2 p.m. to 3 p.m. 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, to chronicleclassifieds@ countrymedia.net, or call 503-397-0116.

Dr. James Earl Davis DO, passed away peacefully, surrounded by family, on May 13, 2023 at the Franciscan Hospice House in University Place, Washington at age 79.

Jim was born in Gratiot County, Michigan, to Duane and Florence (McKnight) Davis. He graduated from Ithaca High School in 1962.

He attended the University of Michigan in Ann Arbor where he majored in pre-med and English, graduating in 1966. While at UofM he met his future wife Roz Juve and they married in 1968. Jim graduated from the Kirksville College of Osteopathy and Surgery in Missouri, in 1970.

Upon completing residency at the Portland Osteopathic Hospital in Portland, Oregon, he and Roz moved to the small community of Clatskanie where he opened a family practice with Dr. Bob McDonald, The Clatskanie Clinic, and raised their three children, Wendy, Erik and

Dorothy Murphy and moved to Rainier. Shortly thereafter, he accepted a position with Kaiser Permanente in Longview, Washington as the first dedicated Urgent Care Clinic physician, until retiring in 2003. Jim enjoyed his retirement in Long branch, Washington, sailing his sailboat and traveling. He also became involved with The Mustard Seed Project, developing the first

assisted living facility on the Key Peninsula. Dorothy passed away in 2015 and in 2016, Jim reconnected with Kathy Crumbaugh, a high school friend, and the two were married in 2021. They enjoyed their time together traveling from Michigan to Washington, Arizona, Oregon and Utah spending time with family and friends.

Dr. Davis’ philanthropic and civic activities included serving as the President of the Clatskanie School Board, President of the Oregon Osteopathic Association, Medical Director of the Longview CareUnit, President, then Treasurer of the Mustard Seed Project in Key Center. Jim was also very involved with his local church. His hobbies and interests included hunting, fishing, star gaz

Dec. 6, 1949 ~ June 7, 2023

Michigan Wolverines.

He is preceded in death by his parents, Duane and Florence Davis; sister Mary Graham; and former wife Dorothy Davis.

He is survived by his wife Kathy Davis; brother John G. Davis; three children, daughter Wendy (Jonathan) Cooley, son Erik (Vanessa) Davis and son Lucas Davis; two grandchildren, Jacob and Nathan Davis; stepdaughter Diana Murphy; stepsons, Doug Murphy and Darin Murphy; and many loving nieces, nephews, great nieces and nephews, step-grandchildren and cousins.

A memorial will be held from 1 p.m. – 4 p.m. on July 29, 2023 at the Key Peninsula Lutheran Church, 4213 Lackey Rd SW, Lakebay, WA, 98349.

was born to Warren Willard and Lois Earlene (Brant) Harding on Dec. 6, 1949, in Portland, Oregon. He was the second child of five. In the fall of 1958, the fam ily moved from Portland to an 80-acre ranch in Sandy, Oregon where he was raised. He graduated from Sandy Union High School in 1968 and spent two years at Oregon State University and Mount Hood Community College before being drafted to military service. During his time at Oregon State University, Rod met his future wife, Karen George, through mutual friends. He served in the United States Army and completed Special Forces training as a Green Beret. In 1972, he left the military service due to the death of his father to return home and care for the family ranch and business. He and Karen married on June 16, 1973, in Grants Pass, Oregon. They spent the next four years traveling around the Northwest building their rock drilling business. In 1976, they settled in Rainier, Oregon, and discovered Rod’s grandfather had been born there and Rod had many relatives in the surrounding community.

daughters, Jaime (1977) and Christine (1979). Rod and Karen ran their rock drilling business, Harding & Daughters, Inc. for nearly 50 years before retiring in 2020.

Coming from a long line of educators, Rod was passionate about the education of children and served on the Rainier School Board for 29 years. He had chaired his final school board meeting two days before his death. He had an adventurous spirit and loved being outdoors. In his early years, he was a licensed intermediate parachutist and had completed over 60 jumps. He earned a private pilot license with an Instrument Rating and commercial certificate,

Sheryl Ann Adair

April 10, 1960 ~ June 5, 2023

Sheryl Ann Adair, a resident of St. Helens, was born on April 10, 1960. She passed away on June 5, 2023 at the age of 63. She loved her grandkids, dancing, garage sales and be ing in the pool. She was also a member of Resonate.

She is survived by Richard Adair; children, Joshua Taylor and Melissa Kearse; grandchildren, Dominique Taylor, Teona Taylor, Devin Seals, Owen Seals, Tayleea Taylor, Taysha Taylor and Dayeesha Taylor. A celebration of life will

be held at 2 p.m. on June 25, 2023 at Village Inn in St. Helens.

honed his skills as an expert trap shooter and enjoyed trap shooting with friends at the Vancouver, Camas, and Rainier Trap Clubs. He was thrilled when his granddaughter, Riley, expressed interest in becoming a member of the Rainier Jr/Sr High School Trap Team. In his retirement, fishing became a calling to him and Captain Jerry Underwood and Cocaptain, Riley, were making that happen. Riley would coach Grandpa Rod on “reeling them in.” He drew immense joy mentoring others, whether it was about the fundamentals of running a rock drill or teaching youth the basics of hunter safety and trap shooting. In 2017 and 2019, Rod led a delegation of educators and students representing Rainier High School and the United States to China. He was revered by the people of China and had the opportunity to host them in Rainier.

Puerto Vallarta, Mexico with ding anniversary on June 16, 2023.

Rod is survived by his wife Karen; two daughters, Jaime (Erik) Aanensen and Christine (Jim) Usher; one granddaughter; Riley Ann Underwood; brother Warren Ralph Harding; brother-inlaw Keith (Lynn) George; and numerous nieces and nephews.

Rod was preceded in death by his parents, Warren and Lois; his brothers, Malvin and Douglas; and his sister Debra.

There will be a celebration of life service at 1 p.m. on Sat., July 8, 2023 at the family home in Rainier, Oregon. Please contact a family member for the address. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the Rainier Jr/Sr High School Trap Team, 28170 Old Rainier Road or the Rainier Oregon Historical Museum (ROHM), P.O. Box 762 in Rod’s honor.

Softball spotlight for Columbia County’s own

WILL LOHRE Country Media, Inc.

Clatskanie’s Olivia Sprague and Vernonia’s Nita Cook have just wrapped up stellar seasons as members of the Oregon Tech (OIT) Softball season that was runnerup in the NAIA Softball World Series.

Sprague is a sophomore and two-sport athlete at Oregon Tech, competing in softball and basketball for the Owls. Cook just wrapped up her freshman season.

“For me, being a part of a team with such success has been a huge opportunity. Being surrounded by teammates who are such driven and determined students, athletes, and friends have influenced me positively in every aspect of my life,” Sprague said. “I am thankful for the environment that has challenged me to be a better athlete and person as a whole.”

In high school, Cook was a two-time 2A/1A All-State selection, 2-time Northwest League MVP, and 3-time All-Northwest League selection. Sprague led Clatskanie Middle High School’s softball team to the 2019 3A state title and earned recognition as a 2-time All-Coastal Range League selection, and 3A All-State pick.

Despite the tough loss in the championship game, Cook really enjoyed being a part of the team and has

high hopes for the program’s future.

incredibly fun. Lots of great memories and positive vibes. This team knows how to play with focus but also makes the game fun. We like to call it ‘focused fun .’ I am very excited about the next three years playing with some of my best friends,” Cook said. “This team has accomplished so much already, and I know we have unfinished business, so we will be back at the championship game again to win it all.”

The Owls ultimately lost to Southern Oregon in the

focus was on not only playing their best but having fun competing.

“I think the biggest takeaway from this year is to have fun, enjoy the time you have,” Cook said. “In the biggest games we had, as a team, we made it a point to have fun, play loose, and enjoy the time. I’ve also learned how to handle pressure better.”

One of the highlights of

Cook’s season was making ESPN’s Top Ten Plays of the Day on May 30. Cook made a diving play to stop the ball, and in one motion, flipped the ball to second base to se cure an out. Her outstanding effort earned her the thirdbest play in the countdown, and was on Sportscenter that night.

Balancing act

Like many studentathletes, some of the challenges come from balancing school obligations with the commitment to the team. For Cook, balancing her social

and sports life was made easy get her work done. For Sprague, finding the right balance is a little trickier due to her playing basketball as well, but she still makes it work.

“Being a dual sport athlete in college has definitely been a tough road to navigate. Learning to take things day by day has prevented me from becoming overwhelmed by commitments,” Sprague said. “However, the coaches

and instructors here at OIT have shown me they want nothing but for me to be successful. They understand I am often being pulled in different directions, but with good communication, they are here to assist me in conquering what I need to.”

Thanks to the community

While both Cook and Sprague have plenty going on between school and athletics, both made sure to mention how much their community’s support has meant to them.

“I would just like to thank the community for the support I have gotten throughout my years there,” Cook said.

For Sprague, she said that something that she has learned is the benefit of surrounding herself with supportive people and that the Clatskanie community has helped her learn that lesson.

“In every phase of my life, the Clatskanie community has shown me indefinite amounts of support, no matter the distance or the activity,” Sprague said. “I’d like to thank the Clatskanie community for providing me with endless love and uplifting encouragement.”

While the Owls weren’t able to achieve their goals of winning the NAIA Softball World Series this year, the talent-loaded program promises to be in the mix for years to come.

Courtesy from Oregon Tech

Clatskanie’s Olivia Sprague.

Courtesy from Oregon Tech

Vernonia’s Nita Cook.