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FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 24, 2023

VOL. 132, NO. 29 Serving the Lower Columbia Region since 1891

Clatskanie receives $81,610 grant for improvements Wheelchairs need at least 5-feet of space to safely turn around, according to the National Association of City Transportation Officials. The plan is to upgrade the planters and bins with narrower models.

STAFF REPORT Country Media, Inc.

T

he Clatskanie Chamber of Commerce has received a grant for $81,610 to help with American with Disabilities (ADA) improvements and beautification projects thought out the city.

The grant, from Tourism Oregon, comes following efforts by the Clatskanie Chamber of Commerce, the Columbia Economic Team, and local business leaders and will be used to support the Clatskanie Downtown Accessibility Project.

That project is a grassroots initiative led by community volunteers and the Clatskanie Chamber to improve Clatskanie’s navigability and safety for those with mobility and health challenges. The project is in partnership with the City of Clatskanie and has the support of the city council and leadership.

Projects identified include: • Improve city park restrooms and accessibility Loose gravel pervades between the entrances and roadway, making it difficult for those in wheelchairs or have other mobility restrictions to cross. There are also no wheelchair accessible designated parking spaces in this parking lot. As a

• Widen the road through the park

Metro Creative Connection

The funding will support the Clatskanie Downtown Accessibility Project.

solution, this project will create a handicap parking spot and pave over the gravel obstructions.

• Install curb bulb-outs One of the project goals to add sloped bulb-outs to either side of the N. Nehalem Street intersection at the Lillich Street crosswalk. This enables wheeled devices to descend and ascend the crosswalk safely and shortens the distance to cross the busy street. This is crucial in pedestrian safety, traffic calming, and accessibility, according to city

officials.

The project will also identify and install two additional crosswalks with slopes to improve downtown accessibility.

• Planter box and trash bin replacement Currently, the Clatskanie Chamber of Commerce owns the planter boxes and trash bins in downtown Clatskanie. The hope is to upgrade these large cement structures because they constrict the sidewalk to less than 5-feet in many places.

Currently, the road is only three-fourths of a two-lane width.

Vehicles must move into the gravel area or the bike lane to be able to pass one another, which is unsafe for pedestrians, according to city officials. Widening the road and adding a biking/walking lane will be safer for pedestrians and those with mobility challenges.

• Placemaking and downtown accessibility consultant The Clatskanie Chamber is also hiring a professional downtown consultant as part of this project.

The role of this consultant will be to tour Clatskanie’s main street, provide recommendations for additional downtown accessibility improvement projects and other placemaking suggestions, and facilitate community discussions.

This will be the collaborative part of the project, where community stakeholders, the city, and other

partners will be welcome to join the process.

There is $10,000 set aside to implement at least one of the projects the consultant and the community identify as an additional, important downtown accessibility project.

Mayor Bob Brajcich congratulated the President of the Clatskanie Chamber of Commerce Sarah Johnson and the business leaders who championed the grant. The Clatskanie Farmers Market and Jasmine Lillich were especially instrumental in securing this grant, according to Brajcich.

City Manager Greg Hinkelman recognized and thanked what he described as the indispensable work of the Columbia Economic Team under the leadership of Paul Vogel.

“Two of his team members, Wela Negelspach, who is vital to Tourism Oregon grants and connections, and Sierra Trass, of Keep it Local Columbia County, did the heavy lifting for this grant and the other tourism grants that Columbia County received,” Hinkelman said.

Follow this city improvement project at thechiefnews.com and in the Friday print editions of The Chief.

Old Fashioned Christmas coming to Clatskanie STAFF REPORT Country Media, Inc.

Courtesy photo from the Clatskanie Arts Commission

The Fireside Social Orchestra.

The Clatskanie Arts Commission presents an “Old Fashioned Christmas” with the Fireside Social Orchestra on Dec. 3, at 3 p.m. at the Birkenfeld Theatre in Clatskanie.

Elsa Wooley is a board member and organizer for the Clatskanie Arts Commission, and she is excited to welcome the Fireside Social Orchestra as the third installment in their 34th Annual Performing Arts Series.

“We live in a very small town, and I think one of the special things about living in a small town is you can still enjoy Christmas in the old-fashioned way,” Wooley said.

A memorable afternoon of Christmas music from the 1800s

and early 1900s on period instruments and voices, featuring Phil and Gayle Neuman of The Trail Band with Laura Kuhlman and Cindy Markham of The Oregon Renaissance Band, cellist Elizabeth O’Connor, and cornetist Mark McCormick.

The program will feature familiar Christmas carols in their original forms, including “It Came Upon the Midnight Clear” (1849), “We Three Kings” (1857), and “Jingle Bells or The One-Horse Open Sleigh” (1857), along with carols from the English, Scottish and French countryside, descriptive holiday instrumental pieces, stories from the time, and some surprises.

The Fireside Social Orchestra

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See CHRISTMAS Page A8

CRFR update: Investigations, interim fire chief, and financial issues WILL LOHRE Country Media, Inc.

In an eventful Columbia River Fire & Rescue (CRFR) Board meeting, the results of multiple investigations were delivered, and the district named a new interim Fire Chief.

At the meeting on Nov. 14, Deputy Chief Eric Smythe was appointed as the interim Fire Chief after the district’s board received the results of an independent investigator into claims of a hostile work environment and a Vote of No Confidence.

Smythe was appointed because the district opted to fill the interim position in-house rather than incur

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Contact The Chief Phone: 503-397-0116 Fax: 503-397-4093 chiefnews@countrymedia.net 1805 Columbia Blvd., St. Helens, OR 97051

further expenses by selecting one of the two outside candidates that they interviewed for the role.

Coming into the role, Smythe said they have a lot of irons in the fire, and they are awaiting the decision of the arbitrator to best understand the full scope of the financial challenges facing the district.

“There’s things that need to be investigated, things that need to be corrected. We want to ensure that we are as transparent and open as possible in regards to the operation and financial stability of the organization,” Smythe said. “And things that were beyond my control, that currently are potentially in my control to correct, and that is the direction that the staff and I, along with the board, and hopefully our local represented union group, can come to the table and move this organization forward. We cannot do it unless all three of us are on board.”

Smythe emphasized that they will continue to meet the responsibilities that are required to ensure the safety of the community.

Investigation results During the meeting, the CRFR board heard summaries of the findings of two investigations conducted

by Jim Band Investigations and Consulting LLC. Band was initially hired in August of 2023 by Acting Chief Jimmy Sanchez to investigate claims of a hostile work environment in the district.

In early October, the board of directors and Sanchez requested the scope of the investigation be expanded to include the claims made by the St. Helens Professional Firefighters Association in their No Confidence Vote against Deputy Chief Smythe and Division Chief Sanchez.

The build-up to these investigations has included months of turmoil for the district. In April, the St. Helens Firefighters Union made a Vote of No Confidence against then-Fire

Chief Joel Medina. Just before the Vote of No Confidence was delivered, three former employees filed a lawsuit against Medina and CRFR for sexual harassment, retaliation for reporting sexual harassment, and creating a hostile work environment based on sex, among other claims.

A second, amended Vote of No Confidence from the union was filed Aug. 7. The second Vote of No Confidence expressed concerns over Sanchez, Smythe, and then-Board Director Gary Hudson.

In May, new board members Austin Zimbrick, Rick Fletcher, and Ryan Welby were elected as CRFR Directors. In their second meeting on the board Aug. 8, they motioned to terminate Medina effective immediately.

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

Hostile Work Environment In his presentation to the board, Band said that his job was trying to determine whether there was a hostile work environment and if there was, who’s fault it was.

“As I started interviewing people, I learned quickly this has been a hostile work environment for everyone for a considerable period of time,” Band said.

During this investigation, he only spoke to management employees during the process of his investigation. Band said that he hasn’t seen a leadership group “as fractured” as the one at CRFR. Regarding the hostile work environment complaint, Band said that there were people who feared for their jobs before Medina was removed. After Medina was fired, “there were a number of people who thought they could get fired at any point.”

Will Lohre / Country Media, Inc.

Investigator Jim Band presents his findings to the board on Nov. 14.

“You’ve got people working directly under [Medina] and they’re not on the same page; they’re all operating based out of fear. Even the people who were seen as most affiliated with [Medina] were worried about their own jobs,” Band said.

Band said that the culture created by the leadership was one where no one felt safe within their jobs.

Band said that Medina’s arrival in the community was the catalyst for the chaos of the last six months.

“It became white hot around here. It’s like somebody threw a hand grenade in the middle of the community. And that caused this gigantic storm that everybody felt,” Band said. “The fault of that, the real core, the root cause of where all this came from was everything that happened in the wake of your former fire chief. And that is based on what everybody told me.”

Band said that it was a hostile work environment not only for those who made the complaint but for everyone within the district.

Band did not interview Medina for a variety of reasons, including the pending litigation against the district.

In his report, Band stated that Medina was “the cause of the negative culture being experienced at

CRFR, and the actions of the community and the result of the election were the effect.”

Vote of No Confidence Regarding the expanded scope of the investigation relating to Chiefs Sanchez and Smythe, Band said that the second Vote of No Confidence was effectively a response to the inaction that resulted from the Vote of No Confidence delivered against Medina.

“It is very interesting doing this after doing the first investigation.

Because ultimately, what I think a lot of this No Confidence Vote was really about at its core, it was really about the first No Confidence motion, which was against Chief Medina,” Band said.

The second Vote of No Confidence cited Sanchez and Smythe for lack of “proficiency, qualifications, and their unprofessional behavior.”

Several accusations were leveled at Smythe and Sanchez regarding their treatment of employees, as well as their failure to uphold professional obligations.

During the investigation, Band interviewed 12 people, including

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See CRFR Page A2

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Friday, November 24, 2023

www.thechiefnews.com

Law enforcement searching for two Knappa juveniles

SUBMITTED BY THE CLATSOP COUNTY SHERIFF’S OFFICE

On November 14, 2023 at approximately 5:30 p.m., Penny Lyles and Jonathan Stockle left Knappa, Oregon area after a confrontation with family, according to Clatsop County Sheriff’s Office investigators.

The two juveniles are believed to be traveling a grey colored 1998 Toyota

Rav4, with Oregon license plate 547HRL. The last known locations for Lyles and Stockle were in Clatsop and Columbia County. The two may be outside of the State of Oregon as they both have ties to Missouri.

Stockle may possibly be concerned about getting arrested and is trying to evade Law Enforcement.

As of Nov. 20, law enforcement does not plan to arrest

Jonathan Stockle.

There have been reports through social media the kids are safe and talking with family, this information is untrue as of time of press.

If you have any information about Penny Lyles or Jonathan Stockle whereabouts, please contact Clatsop County Dispatch at 503-325-2061, and ask to speak with a deputy.

Courtesy photo

15-year-old Penny Lyles is 5’5” tall, 210 pounds with blond hair and blue eyes. 18-year old Jonathan Stockle is 5’11” tall and 155 pounds with blond hair and blues eyes. The two are believed to be traveling a Grey colored 1998 Toyota Rav4, OR plate 547HRL.

Clatskanie Cultural Center to host free family events

STAFF REPORT Country Media, Inc.

Christmas will come to Clatskanie early, with free family-friendly holiday events sponsored by several local organizations at the Clatskanie Cultural Center, 75 S. Nehalem Street, on Dec. 2.

Secretary and Clatskanie Cultural Center Coordinator Elsa Wooley said they want to bring the community together around the Cultural Center.

“It’s a wonderful building that we want the community to think of at its own building,” Wooley said. “We’re so pleased that we’re able to give back to the community for all their support by having this fun event for the kids and their families. Absolutely no charge for Saturday’s event.”

The fun begins at 3 p.m. with a live performance by The Amazing Bubbleman, Louis Pearl, who has created and performed bubble effects and tricks around the world.

“He does giant bubbles, actually big enough for kids to get inside the bubble,” Wooley

CRFR

From Page A1 union members, administrative employees, coworkers of Sanchez in Florida, and former CRFR board member Hans Feige.

Band said he investigated each of the claims in the motion, except the claims related to Medina, as he is no longer an employee of the district.

The Vote of No Confidence included 16 total claims primarily relating to Sanchez, Smythe, and Medina. Band said that he found evidence to completely refute nine of the allegations. Three of the claims were against Medina, and Band did not investigate these. One of the claims is subject to a lawsuit, and Band said he could not make a determination. Of the final three claims, Band’s report said, “there was no evidence to prove them to be accurate in their entirety.”

Band said in the meeting and his report that when he spoke with union member Aaron Peterson, who he said told him that the motion was “really a cry for help.”

Band’s report said that “several of the complaints do not appear to have gone through any sort of analysis or investigation before being presented. The report also said some of the complaints were regurgitations of allegations in a lawsuit.

“It seems this No Confidence Motion happened because nothing had been done about the first No Confidence Motion and the affiliation Chiefs Smythe and Sanchez had with Medina,” Band’s summary analysis report said.

“There was very little documentation provided to me by the union; certainly nothing to the degree that would be appropriate before making claims against two CRFR managers that many would characterize as defamatory.”

Financial report Prior to Band’s reports on the two investigations, CRFR’s attorney, Akin Blitz, gave a summary of a report on behalf of the district’s hired auditors, Robert Moody of Merina+CO. Blitz said that Moody and Merina+CO found that the district had $4.5 million at the end of the 2020-21 fiscal year as initially reported.

However, Merina+CO said that when they were reviewing the working papers of previous district auditors Pauly Rogers & CO, Merina+CO identified “several indicators that professional standards were not followed with respect to risk assessment and proper documentation related to

Photo by Gail Hicks

Courtesy photo from The Amazing Bubbleman

Santa Claus will return to the Clatskanie Cultural Center ballroom on Saturday, Dec. 2, from 4:30 to 6 p.m. to hear the Christmas wishes of local children. Parents are encouraged to bring their cameras.

Louis Pearl, The Amazing Bubbleman, will perform Dec. 2. The performance is offered free to local young people and their parents, thanks to the sponsorship of the Clatskanie Kiwanis Club and Friends of the Library.

said. “It’s just kind of magical.

I think we’re going to have as many adults in the audience as children because everyone seems pretty excited about it.”

The free performance in the Birkenfeld Theatre inside the Cultural Center is sponsored by the Clatskanie Kiwanis Club and the Friends of the Library. Wooley expressed gratitude to the event’s sponsors for helping make it an event without a financial bar-

rier to partake.

Immediately following the Amazing Bubbleman, and by special arrangement with the Clatskanie Foundation, Santa Claus is interrupting his busy schedule to hear local children’s wishes from 4:30 p.m. to 6 p.m. upstairs in the ballroom at the Cultural Center.

“That’s always a fun event.

Santa comes, and children fill out a little card about

if they’ve been naughty or nice and what they want for Christmas so when they get up to Santa’s lap, they can have all those thoughts in their heads, and they can hand him the card so he can remember what he needs bring them on Christmas,” Wooley said.

Wooley said that Santa’s elves would be accompanying him, and they encouraged people to take photos with him. Wooley said the most ex-

citing thing is to see the kids’ faces when they’re waiting or talking to Santa.

“It just makes everything worthwhile,” Wooley said.

“It kind of puts you back into what Christmas should really be for the kids.”

At 6 p.m., the celebration will move outside, where the Clatskanie Chamber of Commerce will light a Christmas tree and serve hot chocolate,

those audits performed.”

In his report to the board, Blitz said that while the funds in the general fund continued to grow, capping at $4.5 million at the end of 2020-21, “budgeting and spending habits” seemed to have changed beginning in the fiscal year of 2021-22.

“The district budgeted expenditures to exceed revenues by $1.6 million for 2021-22. Actual expenditures exceeded actual revenues during the year by more than $1.1 million, according to unaudited financial statements prepared by the district,” Blitz said.

This trend of overspending beyond revenues continued, with the end result being a projected negative general fund balance at the end of the financial year 2023-2024.

In the conclusion of its report, Merina+CO said that based on their review of the auditors’ working papers, concluded that the audits did not conform to the professional standards in the areas of planning and risk assessment to procedures performed, understanding of the client and internal controls, documentation of procedures, and reporting.

“The auditors’ reporting and communications with the Board of Directors presented a message that there was no significant cause for concern regarding the district’s processes or internal controls.

Weaknesses in the district’s controls have manifested in independent investigations and allegations of misconduct, and significant reductions in the district’s fund balance available to fund operations,” the report states.

Year after year, since 2021, the district spent beyond the revenues they were generating. The report said that if the board had sufficient notice to respond to the issues, they may have been able to mitigate the district’s current financials.

Blitz said that based on the report, a further inquiry into the services provided

by Pauly Rogers & CO may be necessary. Blitz said that “budgets over multiple years were built on an erroneous cash balance,” unbeknownst to the board.

rules in favor of the district, there would be no retroactive payment, and there would be reductions in personnel service costs for 2023/24 and going forward, amounting to about $313,000 a year.

Blitz said that a strategy meeting to address the financial issues would be necessary to find solutions to them.

“What you’re going to have to do is take the current budget, and figure out how

to shave about half a million dollars out of it,” Blitz said.

Blitz noted that the only way to address the issues is through collaboration between the union, employees, administration, and the board. Smythe echoed this sentiment.

“As the interim Fire Chief, it is my responsibility to ensure that we have a balanced budget, that we’re following policies and proce-

Next steps With an ongoing arbitration process facing the district, the totality of the financial challenges the district faces is not yet known. If the arbitrator rules in favor of the union, the district will need to pay out in favor of the contract the district says they signed in error.

According to the Chief’s previous reporting, Moody said that if the arbitrator finds in favor of the union, there will likely need to be an estimated $247,000 retroactive payment. If the arbitrator

Holiday Bazaar Plymouth Presbyterian Church Annual Bazaar Saturday, November 18 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.

2615 Sykes Road, St. Helens

Christmas Bazaar

Saturday, Dec. 2, 9 a.m. - 2 p.m. Buccini Hall, St. Frederic Catholic Church, 165 S 14th St, St. Helens. Serving lunch, surprise packages, jams and jellies, raffles, crafts, fresh wreaths and more.

Clatskanie Tiger Tournament Bazaar

Sunday, December 10, 9 a.m. - 2 p.m.

471 SW Belair Dr., Clatskanie, OR 97016 Proceeds go to: Individuals of the Educational school sponsored trip to Peru 2024

accompanied by live music provided by the Clatskanie Middle/High School (CMHS) band and choir.

This is the second year that the Cultural Center has had the CMHS band in attendance for the event, and Wooley said that they expect a good turnout after last year’s success.

“Last year, we were amazed at how many people came. We ended up filling up the whole street with people who were singing along and cheering as the tree is lighted,” Wooley said.

Clatskanie Foundation President Debbie Hazen said that the goal of the Clatskanie Foundation and Cultural Center is to enhance the quality of life for the people of Clatskanie.

“We exist to do good things for the community,” Hazen said. “This is just one more thing that we like to do because it enhances that close-knit hometown feel that Clatskanie has.”

The public is invited to attend any or all of the free events. dures, and any directions that the board has for the organization,” Smythe said. “In order to convey that, it has to be a sit-down, face-to-face, and heart-to-heart communication. We have to trust each other that what we’re doing is best for our organization and the citizens that we protect.”

How the board and district will address the projected shortfall will be monitored in the coming months.

Friday, November 24, 2023

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FBI report shows increase bias incidents in Oregon STAFF REPORT Country Media, Inc. The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) has released the 2022 Hate Crime Report as part of its Uniform Crime Reporting (UCR) Program and the law enforcement has launched a new hate crime reporting campaign.

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In Oregon, 212 of 236 agencies voluntarily submitted data for this current 2022 report. The UCR program specifically defines a hate crime as a criminal offense motivated, in whole or in part, by the offender’s bias or biases against a race, religion, disability, sexual orientation, ethnicity, gender, or gender identity.

In Oregon, there were 290 single bias incidents reported in 2022, and 287 single bias incidents reported in 2021.

In Oregon, there were 428 reported victims in 2022, and 377 reported victims in 2021.

These victim numbers include both single bias and multiple bias incidents.

Nationally, there were over 11,000 single-bias hate crime incidents involving 13,278 victims and 346 multiplebias hate crime incidents that involved 433 victims.

In 2022, the top three bias categories in single-bias incidents were race/ethnicity/ ancestry, religion, and sexualorientation. The top bias types within those bias categories by volume of reported hate crime incidents is Anti-Black or African American for race/ ethnicity/ancestry bias, Anti-

Jewish for religious bias, and Anti-Gay (male) for sexualorientation bias.

Key takeaways from the 2022 Hate Crimes Report The bias motivator in about 60% of Oregon incidents were race/ethnicity/ ancestry. Victims perceived as Black were the racial group targeted most frequently.

Religion was the motivator in about 10% of cases. Victims perceived as Jewish were the religious group targeted most frequently. Sexual orientation was the motivator in about 18% of reported Oregon incidents.

Raw UCR reporting is available on FBI.gov and through the FBI’s Crime Data Explorer.

Oregon effort The Portland Division of the FBI is joining the FBI’s nationwide efforts to increase awareness about hate crimes and encourage reporting of hate incidents with advertising campaign across Oregon.

The campaign, which began November 6, includes billboards in Medford, Eugene, Corvallis, as well as static and digital displays reaching thousands of passengers daily at Portland International Airport.

Hate crimes are the highest priority of the FBI’s civil rights program because of the devastating impact they have on families and communities.

The FBI defines a hate crime as a criminal offense against a person or property motivated in whole or in part by an of-

fender’s bias against a race, religion, disability, sexual orientation, ethnicity, gender, or gender identity.

The FBI is the lead investigative agency for criminal violations of federal civil rights statutes and works closely with local, state, tribal, and other federal law enforcement partners in many of these cases, even when federal charges are not pursued.

“Violent acts motivated by hate are unacceptable in our communities,” FBI Portland Field Office Special Agent in Charge Kieran L. Ramsey said. “Sadly though, the amount of hate crimes reported here in Oregon has doubled from what it was just five years ago. Even still, the vast majority of these crimes are going underreported and that needs to change. That’s why we are spreading the word with this campaign.

The FBI serves to safeguard against hate and violence, but we can only do so if we know about any such threats or violent actions. Every person has the right to live without fear of violence or intimidation. The FBI and our law enforcement partners will continue to hold those accountable whose hatefilled aggression violates the civil rights of others.”

This Oregon effort ties with a national FBI awareness campaign that hopes to drive education efforts and increase reporting: “Protecting Our Communities Together: Report Hate Crimes.”

FBI Role in investigating hate crimes There are a number of

federal laws that give the FBI the ability to investigate hate crimes. Those laws generally require some kind of criminal act AND a finding that the person committing the act did so because he/she was motivated by bias.

The criminal act can include offenses such as murder, assault, arson, and it generally requires the use or threat of force or violence. For an incident to qualify as a federal hate crime, the subject(s) must have acted wholly or in part based on the victim’s actual or perceived status. This is generally consistent with state law. Under federal law, bias motivators include: • Race • Ethnicity • National origin • Disability • Religion • Gender • Gender identity • Sexual orientation Billboard locations: Eugene: • 5th Ave. Medford: • Bullock Rd. • Table Rock Rd. • Lawnsdale Rd. • Bank Rd. Corvallis: • Highway 34 Anyone who has information about or believes they are a victim of a federal hate crime should contact the FBI by phone at 1-800-CALL-FBI or online at tips.fbi.gov.

Child care program faces potential $123 million shortfall GRANT SYRINGERR Oregon Capital Chronicle Chronicle Guest Article

A record number of Oregon families signed up for child care subsidies this year when eligibility was broadly expanded, but that has led to a budget shortfall that could reach $123 million.

Department of Early Learning and Care officials told a legislative committee last week that they stopped taking applications Nov. 4 for the state’s Employment Related Day Care program, which helps low-income families pay for child care. The pause in applications came months after the Legislature broadened eligibility to more families and increased benefits – but it didn’t allocate enough money to pay for them, forcing the agency to create a waitlist.

That’s frustrated recipients and child care advocates whose lobbying efforts failed to increase the program’s funding during this year’s legislative session.

The subsidy program pays for the bulk of child care costs for low-income families earning less than 200% of the federal poverty line, which is about $3,300 for a family of two. Families receiving the benefit only pay a monthly copay, which vary by income.

The average was $10 in August.

Budget impact The budget deficit means the waitlist for subsidized care will probably remain in place indefinitely, barring a major investment by the Legislature in the 2024 session. Even if the

Clatskanie Youth Soccer Club AGM Our Clatskanie Youth Soccer Club AGM meeting this year will be at Fultano’s at 7pm, on Tuesday November 28th, 2023.

This is an open meeting for everyone to attend, ask questions and meet board members. If you are interested in getting involved with local youth recreational soccer, please join us. We are always in need of new members. All Board positions are open!

program doesn’t grow beyond its current caseload of 15,600 families – which is unlikely – funding is $38 million short.

That figure excludes $13 million in federal funding the agency expects to receive.

That expected funding gap would spike to $123 million if the caseload grows by 2% per month, according to a presentation by state early learning director Alyssa Chatterjee and two of her aides.

Some lawmakers on the interim education subcommittee expressed concern about the budget shortfall. They also affirmed that assistance for day care is critical for families and employers in Oregon, where child care costs many families 20% of their income – if it is available at all.

“We need to make this program something that can’t surprise us,” said Rep. Susan McLain, D-Hillsboro.

In June, lawmakers appropriated about $113 million less for the program than what the Department of Early Learning and Care had requested. Gov. Tina Kotek, for whom early learning is a priority, called on lawmakers last month to commit at least $50 million more.

It’s unclear how much funding the early learning agency will ask for during the 2024 session, which kicks off in February. Kate Gonsalves, a department spokesperson, said analysts are “still working to finalize what that number will be.”

Dana Hepper, director of policy and advocacy at Children’s Institute, told the Capital Chronicle that Employment Related Day Care is “ready to grow” but needs support from lawmakers.

“That is not a sustainable strategy. And we know what to do. We know we have a program that works,” she said.

Deficit driven by caseload spike During the presentation, Chatterjee told lawmakers that budgeting for the program has been difficult because it’s been impossible to project how many families would apply for subsidies under the expanded eligibility rules. She said she expected clarity to emerge in the coming months.

Hepper noted that the agency’s original budget request this year may have covered the current demand had it been approved.

“They might have gotten it kind of right back then,” she said.

Oregon has offered Employment Related Day Care subsidies for decades, but the program’s advocates long considered the program broken because it saddled recipients with exorbitantly high co-pays.

In 2021, lawmakers reacting to the COVID-19 child-care crisis extended the program to serve more categories of low-income families. Students became eligible, as did families with an open child welfare case, families receiving federal assistance and survivors of domestic violence. Most of those changes went into effect this year, and more are planned.

The legislation also beefed up the subsidy by reducing families’ copays, which were some of the priciest in the country. The copay for an average family of three with one child in care was about $520 per month in 2019, according

to a report by the National Women’s Law Center. Now, depending on monthly income, a family of that size can pay no more than about $110 per month.

To drive down co-pays and make the subsidy more useful for families, the state relied on about $97 million of federal American Rescue Plan Act funding. But the last of that funding will be spent within the year, Chatterjee told the Capital Chronicle last month, creating a funding “gap.”

Applications for subsidies spiked in June, just after state lawmakers committed much less funding than what the agency and advocates had asked for. That month, about 11,500 families participated in the program; by October, more than 15,600 families did. However, thousands of accepted families are still waiting to connect with a child care provider who accepts the subsidy.

“I’m also not surprised that we grew so quickly,” Rep. Emily McIntire, R-Eagle Point, said during the presentation. “This is something that our state has been begging for, that is long overdue.”

McLain reassured Chatterjee that Employment Related Day Care is “not the first program to have a waitlist.”

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.

Fireside Social Orchestra

A Fireside Christmas

A Fireside Christmas A Fireside Christmas Sunday, Dec. 3, 2023 at 3 p.m.

Tickets: Adult $25, Senior $23, Child $20

Tickets: Adults $25, Senior $23, Child $20 Birkenfeld Theater, Clatskanie Culture Center Birkenfeld Theater Clatskanie Cultural Center Tickets:75Adult $25, Senior $23, Child S. Nehalem St., Clatskanie, OR $20 75 S. Nehalem St Clatskanie, OR

Tickets: Adult $25, Senior $23, Child $20 www.clatskaniearts.org

Birkenfeld Theater Clatskanie Cultural Center 75 S.Theater Nehalem St Clatskanie, ORCenter Birkenfeld Clatskanie Cultural North Columbia County’s trusted local news source

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Friday, November 24, 2023

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•N ews and V iews • •

Drought effects linger after the rain has begun CHIP BUBL Clatskanie Grows Chief Guest Column

Drought effects linger long after the rain has begun Most of Columbia County had no real rain for about 90 days this summer. For many gardeners, the long warm season allowed tomatoes to ripen and Concord grapes to actually get sweet. That was all good. But there is a strong chance that the long dry spell will continue to affect trees and shrubs. Much of the damage will not show up until next spring or even for several years.

Newly planted trees and shrubs are most at risk. New plants usually come to us with small root systems (bare root dormant trees) or somewhat constrained ones like those trees and shrubs that we get in containers. Most gardeners are good about seeing that a proper planting hole is dug (wider as opposed to deep), that grass and weeds are taken care of and that the trees are kept wellwatered the first year. But often, second year trees still lack vigorous root systems.

Moisture competition from grass and skimpy watering in August through October can send these plants into crisis when the soil profile dries out as much as it did this summer. Symptoms may include rapid drying of the leaves or individual limbs dying.

Under the ground, roots may be damaged. Root injury often leads to the strange symptom of trees leafing out next spring and then quickly turning brown.

Drought stress may increase insect injury. A nonstressed tree often has resins, sap, or gum that helps it fight off trunk or limb borers.

Weakened trees can’t mount the same level of defense.

Roots that have partially died back can be more prone to root diseases that may cause significant and sometimes fatal problems in the coming years. For both these problems, there are no treatments (root diseases) or only marginally effective ones (insect borers).

Some of our native trees have very sophisticated stress response capacities. A lot of Oregon Garry oaks can be found in St. Helens on rocky, dry sites. This year, many had brown leaves by early August but have set buds on their branches and should, for the most part, leaf out normally next year.

Douglas fir is a little more problematic. It now grows on lower elevation sites that originally had oaks. Though Douglas fir naturally goes dormant in the late summer, the degree of dryness this fall mirrors other years that caused problems for fir trees.

Some trees have already

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Metro Creative Connection

turned brown and are dead.

Others have limbs that have died but the tree is still alive.

Callers to the Extension office have noted the amount of needles being shed this year. It is normal for conifers to shed needles in the fall from the inside out but drought stressed trees often dispense with more needles in response to lack of moisture. Western red cedars were also stressed by droughty conditions this past spring and summer. These may die with little warning. However, don’t confuse sporadic “flagging” scattered throughout cedar trees. That is normal.

As noted above, our summer to early fall stress can continue to show up as dying trees well into the next several years. A cold dry winter could aggravate that problem but right now, that doesn’t appear to be in the forecast.

We have had a significant rain the last month or so.

That will help.

I want to recognize the advocacy work of Columbia Economic Team (CET) in helping to secure over $381,000 in Travel Oregon Grants to fund accessible and inclusive tourism projects in Columbia County. Out of six projects that were funded in the Portland Region, four of them are in Columbia County. This is outstanding!

In addition to their role in driving economic devel-

Important notes • Donate extra garden produce and/or money to the food bank, senior centers, or com-munity meals programs.

It always is greatly appreciated.

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

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

Dec. 7 Columbia County Beekeepers Monthly meeting

Winterizing the garden • Cover rose bushes with a sawdust mulch above the graft union and up several inches to protect the plant in the event of very cold weather. Prune back to about 2 feet now.

• Figure out how to protect your container plants when the weather turns cold.

Roots are not as hardy as tops. Plants that are hardy to 0° F in the ground can die at 15-20°F in containers. Best strategy is to put them out of the direct wind and when the weather turns frigid, wrap some insulation around the pot, keep the soil moist, and consider throwing a tarp, row cover, or blanket over the top.

• Mulch landscape and vegetable beds.

• It is not too late to plant bulbs. Our mild winters allow bulbs to push out roots and establish themselves far later than other parts of the country. If you find that you haven’t planted garlic, tulips, daffodils, or snowdrops, don’t despair. Get to it. You might even find some bulbs at discount.

• Trap voles (meadow mice) and keep vegetation cut tight around newer trees and shrubs to help predators

•V oices of the C

Recognizing Columbia Economic Team

find the mice before they find your plants.

The program to be announced. Thursday, Dec. 7, at 7 p.m. meeting at the Saint Helens /OSU Extension Office or by Zoom. Please email for the zoom link. All are welcome. Columbiacountyoregonbeekeepers@gmail.com.

Have questions?

If you have questions on any of these topics or other home garden and/or farm questions, please contact Chip Bubl, Oregon State University Extension office in St. Helens at 503-397-3462 or at chip.bubl@oregonstate. edu . The office is open from 8 a.m. - 5 p.m. Monday through Friday.

Free newsletter The Oregon State University Extension office in Columbia County publishes a monthly newsletter on gardening and farming topics (called County Living) written/edited by yours truly.

All you need to do is ask for it and it will be mailed or emailed to you. Call 503397-3462 to be put on the list. Alternatively, you can find it on the web at http:// extension.oregonstate.edu/ columbia/ and click on newsletters.

Resource information Oregon State University Extension Service – Columbia County 505 N. Columbia River Highway St. Helens, OR 97051 503 397-3462

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ommunity •

opment, CET is also the Destination Management Organization (DMO) for Columbia County. CET plays an essential role in promoting Columbia County tourism, attracting tourism dollars, and supporting our local businesses.

CET is a tireless cheerleader for county tourism projects and funding at both the regional and state levels.

Their support and expertise are the reason why we are seeing more tourism investment in Columbia County than ever before.

Recent awarded projects include $100,000 for the Port of Columbia County to

install an ADA accessible kayak platform at Scappoose Bay Marina, $100,000 for the City of St. Helens’ Riverwalk Project, $100,000 to the St. Helens Main Street Alliance to install an elevator tower for ADA accessibility in a historic building, and $81,610 to the Clatskanie Chamber of Commerce to advise and implement mobility-friendly projects in Clatskanie’s downtown.

Recognition of CET’s efforts seems appropriate and well deserved.

Sean P. Clark Executive Director Port of Columbia County

North Columbia County’s trusted local news source

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•C ommunity E vents • •

December 2 Free holiday activities at the Clatskanie Cultural Center 3 p.m. at the Clatskanie Cultural Center, 75 S. Nehalem. Exploring the world of bubbles with the Amazing Bubbleman. Perfect for the young and young-at-heart, come explore the breathtaking dynamics of bubbles with the Amazing Bubble Man. He combines comedy, artistry and spellbinding tricks with his square bubbles, giant bubbles, bubble volcanos and even people inside bubbles.

Arrival of Santa following the Bubbleman performance in the Ballroom of the Cultural Center. Lighting of the community Christmas tree in the Cultural Center parking lot, sponsored by the Clatskanie Chamber. The CMHS band and choir will be performing December 3 CAC concert An Old-Fashioned Christmas 3 p.m. at the Birkenfeld Theatre in Clatskanie. A memorable afternoon of Christmas music from the 1800s and early 1900s on period instruments and voices, featuring Phil and Gayle Neuman of The Trail Band with Laura Kuhlman and Cindy Markham of The Oregon Renaissance Band, cellist Elizabeth O’Connor, and cornetist Mark McCormick. The program will feature familiar Christmas carols in their original forms, including “It Came Upon the Midnight Clear” (1849), “We Three Kings” (1857) and “Jingle Bells or The One-Horse Open Sleigh” (1857), along with carols from the English,

Scottish and French countryside, descriptive holiday instrumental pieces, stories from the time, and some surprises. The Fireside Social Orchestra recreates the small orchestra featured in parlor and ballroom performances of long ago with period instruments including violin, tenor viola, rebec, cello, flageolet, walking stick recorder, flute, cornet, keyed bugle, tenor horn, ophicleide, tuba, saxophone, reed contrabass, bagpipes, voices and more.

Tickets for this family friendly performance are available at clatskaniearts.org., by calling Elsa at 503-728-3403 or at the door on the day of the performance. Ticket prices are $25 for adults, $23 for seniors (60+) and students and $20 for children.

Ongoing Clatskanie Senior Center lunches Clatskanie Senior Center Lunches now served Monday, Wednesday, and Friday at noon at the Castle Cafe, 620 SW Tichenor. Call 503-7283608 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, includes Clatskanie Historical Society museum. Call Debbie at 503338-8268.

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 503-3975390.

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.

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 360-751-7039.

The Rainier Public Library is open from 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays, 10:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. on Fridays and 10:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. on Saturdays. It will be closed Sundays and Mondays.

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.

Weekly Online Poll

Last Week’s Results

Do you plan on volunteering this holiday season?

Best way to cook a turkey?

Yes

88.0% Oven

8.0% Deep Fry

No

4.0% BBQ

Vote online at thechiefnews.com

The Chief

The Chief (USPS 116-360) is published weekly by Country Media, Inc. 1805 Columbia Blvd, St. Helens, OR 97051

POSTMASTER: Send address changes to The Chief PO Box 1153, St. Helens, OR 97051

SUBSCRIPTION RATES: 1 month in county: $8 1 month out of county: $10 One year in county: $70 One year out of county: $90

CONTACT US • Phone: (503) 397-0116 • Fax: (503) 397-4093 Website: www.thechiefnews.com Editorial: chiefnews@countrymedia.net ADVERTISE WITH US: Advertising Email: chronicleads@countrymedia.net Classified email: chronicleclassifieds@countrymedia.net Editorial policy Opinions expressed on this page are independent of The Chief views and are solely those of the writers expressing them.

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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.

Obituaries Obituaries received after noon on Wednesday may not be in time for that Friday’s paper. Obituaries may be emailed to chiefnews@countrymedia.net, sent via mail, or dropped off at the office. We also accept obituaries written by funeral homes. Include the address and daytime phone number of the person who submitted the obituary, so we can verify information as necessary.

Friday, November 24, 2023

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Public Notices

PROTECTING YOUR RIGHT TO KNOW

CC23-1864

TS No. OR12000006-23-1 APN 25997 TO No 2319326 TRUSTEE’S NOTICE OF SALE Reference is made to that certain Trust Deed made by, SAMUEL A. MASSEY AND MCKENNA R. STEIN, NOT AS TENANTS IN COMMON BUT WITH RIGHT OF SURVIVORSHIP as Grantor to COLUMBIA COUNTY TITLE & ESCROW as Trustee, in favor of MORTGAGE ELECTRONIC REGISTRATION SYSTEMS, INC. (“MERS”), as designated nominee for MANN MORTGAGE, LLC DBA LIFE MORTGAGE, Beneficiary of the security instrument, its successors and assigns, dated as of August 15, 2017 and recorded on August 15, 2017 as Instrument No. 2017-07504 and that said Deed of Trust was modified

by Modification Agreement and recorded April 22, 2022 as Instrument Number 2022-03812 and the beneficial interest was assigned to FREEDOM MORTGAGE CORPORATION and recorded December 22, 2022 as Instrument Number 202209601 of official records in the Office of the Recorder of Columbia County, Oregon

to-wit: APN: 25997 THE LAND REFERRED TO HEREIN BELOW IS SITUATED IN THE COUNTY OF Columbia, STATE OF OR, AND IS DESCRIBED AS FOLLOWS: Beginning at the Northeast corner of Lot 1 of FLIPPINS SUBDIVISION OF LOT 1 OF TICHENOR’S FIRST ADDITION to the City of Clatskanie, Columbia County Oregon; thence South 18° West 94.30 feet to the Northeast corner of tract conveyed to George B. Conyers et ux, by deed recorded November 13, 1926 in Book 42, page 387, Deed Records of Columbia County, Oregon, said point being also .80 feet South 18° West of the Northeast corner of Lot 3 of said Subdivision; thence North 72° West to the point of intersection with the center line of a vacated alley, said center line being 15 feet Westerly end parallel to the West line of Lot 2; thence North 18° East along the said center line of said vacated Alley and extension thereof to the Northeast comer of tract conveyed b:J Joseph F. Garrison at ux by deed

recorded January 9, 1925 in Book 38, page 327, Deed Records of Columbia County, Oregon, said point being also North 18° East 38.3 feet from the Northwest corner of said Lot 1; thence South 72° East 116.5 feet to the point of beginning. Commonly known as: 560 NEHALEM STREET, CLATSKANIE, OR 97016 Both the Beneficiary, FREEDOM MORTGAGE CORPORATION, and the Trustee, Nathan F. Smith, Esq., OSB #120112, have elected to sell the said real property to satisfy the obligations secured by said Trust Deed and notice has been recorded pursuant to Section 86.752(3) of Oregon Revised Statutes. The default for which the foreclosure is made is the Grantor’s failure to pay: Failed to pay payments which became due Monthly Payment(s): 5 Monthly Payment(s) from 09/01/2022 to 01/01/2023 at $1,001.13 10 Monthly Payment(s) from 02/01/2023 to 11/01/2023 at $1,033.40 Late Charge(s): 54.09 By this reason of said default the Beneficiary has declared

all obligations secured by said Trust Deed immediately due and payable, said sums being the following, to-wit: The sum of $150,236.89 together with interest thereon at the rate of 3.22000% per annum from August 1, 2022 until paid; plus all accrued late charges thereon; and all Trustee’s fees, foreclosure costs and any sums advanced by the Beneficiary pursuant to the terms of said Trust Deed. Wherefore, notice is hereby given that, the undersigned Trustee will on March 19, 2024 at the hour of 01:00 PM, Standard of Time, as established by Section 187.110, Oregon Revised Statues, Front Entrance, Columbia County Courthouse, 230 Strand Street, St. Helens, OR 97051 County of Columbia, sell at public auction to the highest bidder for cash the interest in the said described real property which the Grantor had or had power to convey at the time of the execution by him of the said Trust Deed, together with any interest which the Grantor or his successors in interest

acquired after the execution of said Trust Deed, to satisfy the foregoing obligations thereby secured and the costs and expenses of sale, including a reasonable charge by the Trustee. Notice is further given that any person named in Section 86.778 of Oregon Revised Statutes has the right to have the foreclosure proceeding dismissed and the Trust Deed reinstated by payment to the Beneficiary of the entire amount then due (other than such portion of said principal as would not then be due had no default occurred), together with the costs, Trustee’s or attorney’s fees and curing any other default complained of in the Notice of Default by tendering the performance required under the obligation or Trust Deed, at any time prior to five days before the date last set for sale. Without limiting the Trustee’s disclaimer of representations or warranties, Oregon law requires the Trustee to state in this notice that some residential property sold at a Trustee’s sale may have been used in manufacturing metham-

phetamines, the chemical components of which are known to be toxic. Prospective purchasers of residential property should be aware of this potential danger before deciding to place a bid for this property at the Trustee’s sale. In construing this notice, the masculine gender includes the feminine and the neuter, the singular includes plural, the word “Grantor” includes any successor in interest to the Grantor as well as any other persons owing an obligation, the performance of which is secured by said Trust Deed, the words “Trustee” and “Beneficiary” includes their respective successors in interest, if any. Dated: 11/2/23 By: Nathan F. Smith, Esq., OSB #120112 Successor Trustee Malcolm & Cisneros, A Law Corporation Attention: Nathan F. Smith, Esq., OSB #120112 c/o TRUSTEE CORPS 17100 Gillette Ave, Irvine, CA 92614 949-252-8300 Order Number 97260, Pub Dates: 11/17/2023, 11/24/2023, 12/1/2023, 12/8/2023, THE CLATSKANIE CHIEF

CC23-1865

NOTICE OF CITY OF RAINIER PLANNING COMMISSION PUBLIC HEARING The City of Rainier Planning Commission will hold a public hearing on December 18, 2023 at 6:00 PM to consider amending Rainier Municipal Code (RMC) Title 18, Zoning Division V regarding accessory dwelling units, amending RMC

section 18.05.100, chapters 18.15, 18.20 and 18.25, and repealing RMC Section 18.25.100, to allow accessory dwelling units in the Suburban Residential, Low Density Residential and Medium Density Residential zoning districts with

architectural regulations to guide the accessory dwelling placement or construction.

The hearing will be held in the City Council Chambers at City Hall, 106 W B Street.

The proposed amendment will be reviewed as required against the applicable

provisions of the Rainier Comprehensive Plan and applicable statewide planning goals and/or administrative rules as adopted by the Land Conservation and Development Commission. Draft Ordinance 1095 effecting the proposed amendment

and supporting materials are available at City Hall. The staff report to the planning commission will be available for review by December 11, 2023. Contact Sarah Blodgett at 503.556.7301 or visit city hall during regular business hours for more

information. All interested persons are invited to submit written comments and/or attend the hearing and present testimony. Only those who make an appearance of record shall be entitled to appeal. Skip Urling, City Planner.

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•S ports • •

Clatskanie Middle/High School sports schedule Winter sports are starting up at Clatskanie Middle/ High School.

Boys’ and girls’ middle and high school basketball will be ramping up in the coming weeks, as well as high school wrestling. Here are the important upcoming dates for the beginning of the season: November 20 • Middle School Boys Basketball vs. Jewell: 4 p.m. 8th Grade Only (CMHS Main Gym) *5 quarter added

November 27

7:30 Varsity Boys

• Middle School Boys Basketball at Rainier: 4 p.m.

November 28 • Middle School Boys Basketball vs. Knappa: 4 p.m.

November 29 • High School Basketball vs. Warrenton: 4:30 p.m. JV Boys, 4:30 p.m. JV Girls (CMHS Upper Gym), 6 p.m.

JV2 Boys (CMHS Upper Gym), 6 p.m. Varsity Girls,

December 1 • High School JV Basketball at Jefferson: 4:30 p.m.

JV Girls/4:30 p.m. JV Boys • High School Varsity Basketball at Jefferson: 6 p.m. Varsity Girls/7:30 p.m.

Varsity boys • High School Wrestling at Knappa: 3 p.m.

December 2 • High School Wrestling at Rainier: 10 a.m.

The Chief

Winter sports are starting up again!

New details about bird flu in Oregon STAFF REPORT Country Media, Inc.

Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) has been circulating in wild birds in North America since December 2021 and continues to be detected in waterfowl in Oregon, according to the Oregon Fish and Wildlife Department (ODFW).

More detections are expected during this fall and winter as waterfowl migrate through Oregon or spend the winter here.

An increase in cases and mortality, especially among cackling geese, is already being seen at Staats Lake in Keizer, Fernhill Wetlands in Forest Grove and multiple wildlife refuges and locations where geese are congregating in the Willamette Valley.

The current strain of the virus (H5N1) was first detected in Oregon in May 2022.

Unlike previous outbreaks of HPAI in 2005 and 2014-15, this strain of the virus did not disappear by the following spring. The H5N1 strain continues to circulate in wild birds and is also infecting backyard poultry flocks. Waterfowl are the natural host of avian influ-

enzas and increased spread is occurring during waterfowl migrations. the ODFW states in a release.

During fall 2022, most mortality in wild waterfowl occurred in cackling and snow geese, however the virus is also commonly detected in wild ducks that had been harvested by hunters.

Although many Low Pathogenic strains of Avian Influenza naturally occur in wild waterfowl, detections of Highly Pathogenic strains in wild birds are less frequent.

Typically, HPAI does not cause large-scale mortality in wild waterfowl or other groups of wild birds but often causes severe illness and death in domestic chickens and turkeys.

However, the current H5N1 strain has caused increased mortality for wild waterfowl (especially geese), shorebirds, raptors and scavengers such as vultures, the release states. Currently, there have been 7,476 confirmed detections in 136 species of wild birds throughout the U.S. This strain has also been detected in 15 mammalian species including scavenging carnivores such as coyotes, foxes and

skunks that have likely fed on infected birds.

Wildlife managers continue to monitor for the disease by testing birds found dead and sampling live birds and birds harvested by hunters for presence of the virus.

What to do if you encounter groups of sick or dead birds ODFW asks that members of the public report groups of sick or dead wild birds to the Wildlife Health lab at 866968-2600 or wildlife.health@ odfw.oregon.gov.

ODFW staff are monitoring and tracking continued mortalities. Samples may be collected in cases of large groups of dead birds or when multiple different species are involved.

Typical symptoms in wild waterfowl include cloudy eyes, head shaking, swimming in circles, and incoordination.

However, HPAI can occur in dabbling duck species that show no signs of disease.

These are the carrier host species that spread the virus to other birds and wetlands.

Infected wild mammals may

• The police blotter relates to the public record of incidents as reported by law enforcement agencies.

For specific details about cases listed, contact the appropriate law enforcement agency.

All individuals arrested or charged with a crime are presumed innocent until proven guilty. Information printed is preliminary and subject to change.

Rainier Police Department November 12 • The dispatch center was advised of a crash notification.

be found sick, dead or acting neurologically abnormal after consuming an infected bird and should also be reported.

ODFW veterinarians recommend that you do not handle wildlife that is sick or found dead. If it is necessary to dispose of a carcass, use a shovel or wear impermeable gloves, wash hands with soap and water and change clothing before having contact with domestic poultry or pet birds.

According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, humans appear to be at low risk for infection with the current H5N1 strain.

More info can be found at https://www.cdc.gov/flu/avianflu/avian-in-humans.htm What hunters need to know Hunters may come in contact with infected waterfowl during the hunting season and should always practice the following safe bird handling and cooking techniques, especially this season due to HPAI: • Do not harvest birds that are obviously sick or found dead.

• Wear rubber or latex

gloves when handling and cleaning game birds.

• Do not eat, drink, smoke or touch your face when handling birds.

• Keep the game bird and its juices away from other foods.

• Thoroughly clean knives and any other equipment or surfaces that touch birds. Use a solution of one third cup of chlorine bleach per one gallon of water.

• Wash your hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds after handling birds (or with alcohol-based hand products if your hands are not visibly soiled).

• Cook all game meat thoroughly (up to at least 165° F) to kill disease organisms including bacteria, viruses and parasites. Use a food thermometer to ensure the inside of the bird has reached at least 165° F. • Do not feed dogs raw meat, organs or other tissue from harvested waterfowl.

Falconers are advised to avoid hunting waterfowl and other waterbirds during the HPAI outbreak because of the risk it presents to raptors.

HPAI is killing raptors that come into contact with infected avian prey or carcasses.

Danger to domestic poultry This strain of HPAI (H5N1) is also deadly to domestic birds (chickens, turkeys, Guinea fowl). The Oregon Department of Agriculture (ODA) strongly encourages backyard poultry producers to prevent contact between their birds and wild birds. Any sick domestic birds should be reported to the State Veterinarian’s office at 1-800347-7028 or AHHotline@oda. oregon.gov.

ODFW is part of the State of Oregon’s multi-agency response to HPAI, along with the Oregon Department of Agriculture, the Oregon Health Authority and the US Department of Agriculture’s Animal Plant Health Inspection Service (USDA-APHIS).

For information about avian influenza in domestic birds, visit ODA’s website: https://www.oregon.gov/oda/ programs/animalhealthfeedslivestockid/animaldiseases/ pages/avianinfluenza.aspx.

•B lotter • •

The driver was able to stop in time, and no crash actually occurred.

November 13 • Two firearms were stolen from a parked vehicle.

• A person and their cat were sleeping in an RV at a business. They were advised they were not welcome at the

location.

November 15 • A caller was concerned to find that their dog had jumped out of their truck somewhere between Longview and Rainier. The dog returned to its person.

November 16

• An officer responded to a complaint of people living in an RV. November 17 • An employee requested extra patrols in the area, stating there had been some suspicious vehicles in the area recently.

November 18 • A caller reported seeing a man hitting a woman in the head. An officer responded, and neither person nor the associated vehicle was there.

• A woman stole approximately $6 worth of alcohol. The establishment advised they were going to serve the suspect a trespass notice.

STATEPOINT CROSSWORD THEME: THE 1980s ACROSS

1. *”Heaven’s on Fire” band 5. *Setting of “Cheers” TV show 8. Derive 13. “I’m ____ you!”

14. Gas station brand 15. Affirmatives 16. Image in Orthodox Church 17. *Robert Wagner or Stephanie Powers, on TV 18. *Vote for H.W. Bush, e.g.

19. *Weird Al’s last name 21. Forum, pl.

22. Dog-____ book 23. Clingy plant 24. Spiky succulent 27. Accumulates (2 words) 31. Turkish military leader 32. Consequence 35. *Wintour of Vogue 36. Zoroaster follower 38. E in B.C.E. 39. #53 Down, third person singular 40. Do like exhaust pipe

41. Hertz’ offering 43. Extra cost 44. Expert, in U.K. (2 words) 46. *Ricky Martin’s boy band 48. Arrival time acronym 49. *Piano player Lee Curreri on “Fame” 51. *Baltimore player 53. *Mikhail Gorbachev’s policy 56. Recipient of money 57. *Umberto Eco’s “The ____ of the Rose” 58. Oration station 60. Some tournaments 61. In the thick of 62. Place, in French 63. Not at all good 64. Bitty 65. Other than what is

DOWN

1. Ornamental pond dweller 2. Deep black 3. Greek promenade 4. Shakespeare’s output 5. * Lou Reed’s “Home of

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the ____” 6. Like thick smoke 7. Campus military org.

8. Attractive to look at 9. *”Back to the Future” car 10. One on drugs 11. Cecum, pl.

12. Is, in Paris 14. “A horse is ____ ____, of course, of course” 20. Resin-producing tree 23. Took the bait 24. *Christopher Reeve’s sartorial style in “Superman II” 25. Old World lizard 26. Indigenous person from Suriname or Guyana 27. Surveyor’s map 28. Mix-up 29. Not married 30. Promenade in Spain 33. Tournament ranking 34. Remains container 37. *Washington’s volcano Mount ____ ____ 39. *Close of “The Big Chill” 41. Genetic initials 42. Entertained 45. Affirm to be true 47. Cavatappi or udon, sing.

49. Scapegoat’s due 50. Fiber crop variety 51. Head of family 52. Deed hearing 53. Chew on 54. Schooner canvas 55. *TV’s “Family ____” 56. Sound of explosion 59. *”Peggy ____ Got Married”

Friday, November 24, 2023

A7

www.thechiefnews.com

SHOP LOCAL COLUMBIA COUNTY

Shop Local y a d r u t a S s s e Small Busin

I can’t believe it’s the holiday season upon us!

JASON MOON Chief Guest Article

As the Small Business Development Director for Columbia County, I’m passionate about the vitality and growth of our local business ecosystem. The heartbeat of our community lies within the small businesses that line our streets, define our neighborhoods, and shape our unique identity. The essence of Columbia County thrives in these organizations, showcasing the craftsmanship, culture, and character that sets us apart.

This holiday season, Keep it Local Columbia County’s Wonderland campaign is in full swing.

A fun, and interactive rally call to our community to choose local businesses for our festive needs. The initiative highlights the unparalleled value that small

businesses bring to our lives and emphasizes the pivotal role they play in our economic landscape, when we spend dollars locally.

Last year’s efforts generated over $559,600 in local spending!

There’s an intrinsic charm in shopping locally that transcends mere transactions. It’s about forging connections, fostering relationships, and investing in the prosperity of our neighbors. When you buy from a local artisan or a family-owned store, you’re not just acquiring a product; you’re supporting a dream, a livelihood, and a legacy.

Your purchase resonates deeply, echoing in the success stories of entrepreneurs striving to make a difference in our community.

The impact of shopping locally extends far beyond economic contributions. It bolsters community ties,

cultivates a sense of belonging, and fortifies the very fabric of our society. These businesses sponsor Little League teams, participate in local events, and contribute to charitable causes, infusing our community with a sense of solidarity and unity.

However, in a world of convenience and global markets, the allure of bigbox stores and online giants can be enticing. Yet, the true essence of Columbia County lies in the nooks and crannies of our local shops, where each purchase is an investment in our collective future.

The Keep it Local for the Holidays Wonderland campaign isn’t just about encouraging shopping habits; it’s about celebrating the essence of our community. It’s a reminder that every dollar spent locally reverberates, creating a

ripple effect that sustains and strengthens our home.

By choosing to shop locally this holiday season, you’re not just buying gifts; you’re investing in the backbone of Columbia County. Whether it’s a handcrafted ornament from a local artisan or a unique find from a boutique store, every purchase carries the spirit of our community.

Let’s join hands this holiday season and amplify the heartbeat of Columbia County by keeping it local.

Together, let’s make a difference, one purchase at a time, and foster a thriving, vibrant community that we are all proud to call home.

Jason Moon is the Director of the Columbia County Small Business Development Center. You can reach the SBDC at 503-4101506 or Columbia-county@ oregonsbdc.org.

Chief photo

Bertucci’s Chocolates, a local sandwich, candy, and gift shop on Columbia Blvd.

Visit sassathome.com for your holiday shopping

Small Business Saturday Sip and Shop 11/25 ~ 10am - 4pm ~ Gift with purchase 10% off $50+ 15% off $75+ 20% off $100+ 25% off $200+ *Cannot be combined with other sales/promos.

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Open 8 am - 4 pm Only twelve bags available!

Purchase Santa’s bag for $18, fill it & get 25% off everything you can fit inside! In-store only, Friday 11/24, Cannot be combined with other sales/promos. Excludes gift card sales.

58105-B Columbia River Hwy, St Helens, OR 97051

503-410-5197

North Columbia County’s trusted local news source

A8

Friday, November 24, 2023

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that I think will be CHRISTMAS ments interesting for people to

From Page A1

recreates the small orchestra featured in parlor and ballroom performances of long ago with period instruments including violin, tenor viola, rebec, cello, flageolet, walking stick recorder, flute, cornet, keyed bugle, tenor horn, ophicleide, tuba, saxophone, reed contrabass, bagpipes, voices and more.

“They put together a program of this oldfashioned Christmas music with old-fashioned instru-

One stop shopping for your wedding

see and hear,” Wooley said.

“It’s a very family-oriented program. You can bring the kids as well as grandma and grandpa, and I think they will all thoroughly enjoy it and walk out of there in the Christmas spirit.

Tickets for this familyfriendly performance are available at clatskaniearts. org. by calling Elsa at 503728-3403 or at the door on the day of the performance.

Ticket prices are $25 for adults, $23 for seniors (60+) and students and $20 for children.

Small Business Saturday encourages local spending WILL LOHRE Country Media, Inc.

You may have heard of Black Friday and Cyber Monday, but a less wellknown but equally important “holiday” is sandwiched between the two dates: Small Business Saturday.

Columbia County Helping Undo Boundaries (H.U.B.) has organized a free “Small Business Saturday Shop Small Event” that will be held at Wild Currant Catering at 201 S 1st St. in St. Helens from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Nov. 25.

This event is free and will include Santa and Elf photos, free ornament making, free samples for community restaurants, and a vendor area.

Columbia County H.U.B. Board Chair and event organizer Amanda Normine detailed why Small Business Saturday is so important, especially in small communities.

“When you shop at a local small business, 70 percent of the money that you spend stays in the local community. When you shop at, say, Walmart, 40 percent or less stays here local,” Normine said. “A lot of these little shops don’t have huge marketing budgets, so you don’t really know they exist until you happen to be walking down Columbia Boulevard one day. Small Business Saturday is meant to promote these little businesses that we love.”

Normine said she thinks a lot of people think they need to go to bigger cities like Portland to find the products they want, when in reality, they may be local and just not know about them.

Normine said the Shop Small Event they are putting on is

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Featuring gowns & tuxedos, for the bride, groom, & your entire wedding party.

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Tiaras, jewelry, veils, and invitations.

1811 Columbia Blvd. St. Helens

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to bring people out to support their local shops.

Saturday’s event Wild Currant Catering will host the event as a “last hurrah” for the business as it will be ceasing operations at the end of November.

Normine said that the event will be a “goodbye” to longtime Wild Currant owner Doug Boyes. As an homage to Boyes, Normine said the event will feature a charcuterie contest.

“We’re having a charcuterie contest in his honor.

You have to shop local for at least two of the items and highlight where you got them. It’s all about presentation because Doug loves a good presentation,” Normine said.

Normine said that the first 20 people who come to the event with a receipt from any Columbia County small business will get a “Shop Small” tote bag.

In addition to the charcuterie contest, there will be a variety of local food, goods, and wares.

Normine said there will be “eats and treats” from local businesses like Plymouth Pub and Victoricos for folks to sample. Five or six vendors will also have jewelry, candles, and other items. Normine also said that she hopes people will head over to nearby local businesses like 2Cs Vendor Mall.

2Cs Vendor Mall hosts more than 70 vendors, according to 2Cs’ website.

“The goal is we get them to start with us, and then they keep going down First Street, and up Columbia Boulevard,” Normine said. “We’re highlighting the mainstreet corridor in St. Helens because of the amount of shopping and small businesses we have there.”

In addition to the food and local vendors, the event will see Santa and a helper make the trek from the North Pole to Wild Currant. The elf will be there for the duration of the event, and Santa will be available for photos from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Normine said that everyone will get a paper craft ornament made out of a free black and white photo.

Normine noted that the free decorations and Santa photo op are a great way to add to the fun without cost for attendees.

The event will feature some food and drink items for sale, as well as some other “fun fundraisers,” which will help support the Columbia County H.U.B.’s business development contest.

Courtesy photo from Amanda Normine

Shop Small swag tote bags will be available to the first 20 attendees who can provide a receipt from a local business.

Courtesy photo from Amanda Normine

Santa’s elf will be around Wild Currant Catering all day for photos.

Overall, Normine emphasized the impact that people can have within a small community.

“The biggest thing is just helping people to see just how important little things that they can do that can have a big impact. Maybe you don’t have a lot of money to go out and spend in your local community.

Well, I challenge you to still

come out on Small Business Saturday and have fun with us, and just take pictures of cool stuff and post them,” Normine said. “You can do things for free that help your neighbors pay their bills this holiday season. The money that you spend in that shop today goes in their pocket today. Do what you can for our small businesses because we are what keeps them open.”

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STOREWIDE SINESS SATURDAY SALE

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Interesting, quality new and used items at great prices. Something new every time! www.christinaschest.com Tuesday-Saturday 12-6pm Sunday 11-4pm (971) 895-1239 • 2035 Columbia Ave, St. Helens

We are thankful to our readers! Happy Thanksgiving from your friends at

sthelens@groceryoutlet.com • 205 Brayden St, St. Helens, OR 97051 503-410-5533 • groceryoutlet.com/circulars/storeid/471

The Chief 503-397-0116 1805 Columbia Blvd, St. Helens, OR 97051 thechiefnews.com

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