October 8, 2003, The Reflector

LOG WORK BEGINS IN PLANKHOUSE PROJECT

Volunteers have begun sorting and splitting donated cedar logs as construction of the Cathlapotle plankhouse at the Ridgefield National Wildlife Refuge moves ahead.

Project manager Greg Robinson of Moclips, a member of the Chinook tribe, said about 130 cedar logs have been donated for the plankhouse, with more donations needed.

Volunteers work every Sunday, 9 a.m.-4 p.m., on various aspects of the project.

On Sept. 28, about 20 volunteers spent the day at the worksite. In addition to safety orientation, work included cleaning out a large barn in which logs will be split, sorting logs, and cutting some logs to length.

In addition, some logs were shaved on the outside with an adz, and some splitting took place.

The barn and outside log storage area are located on the south part of the Refuge, about two miles from where the plankhouse will be built on the Carty Unit.

The plankhouse will be similar to one that once stood in the Refuge area, and was recorded by Lewis & Clark as about 200 feet long.

The replica plankhouse under construction will measure 37-feet by 78 feet.

Robinson said a pole-setting ceremony will take place Nov. 1 as actual construction gets underway.

The floor of the plankhouse will be about 18 inches below ground, said Robinson. Thus the wall posts will only be about xx feet long.

The center ridge posts, however, will be about 26 feet long, set three feet into the ground. Some concrete will be used to avoid settling.

Planks and poles will be bound with cord which will be created by volunteers from braided cedar withes. The withes will be collected from cedar trees in the spring because by summer they contain too much sap to work with.

Robinson said more donations of cedar logs are needed, especially logs that are 36 inches or greater in diameter and "the longer the better."

Some cedar logs will be purchased, said Robinson, to assure tight grain.

The roof will be created with lapped cedar wood, split to about two inches thick. The wall planks will be about three inches thick.

Robinson expressed his appreciation to the Mt. Hood National Forest for the donation of about 100 cedar logs, and to area residents Helen Maul and Mike Bochart who also made log donations.

Volunteers are needed Sundays, with the exception of Oct. 12.

Robinson said continuing volunteers include engineers and others knowledgeable about construction work.

Robinson gave recognition to the work of Pat Campbell, a retired engineer who serves as log manager. Campbell has developed a system log sorting and tracking system.

Robinson also gave credit to Truman Sturdevant for coordinating the log search effort.

Volunteers need no experience, said Robinson, although people with log handling and woodworking skills are encouraged. People are invited to bring mauls, hammers, sledgehammers, wedges, chainsaws, safety goggles, hearing protection, sturdy shoes and gloves. No registration is needed.

Robinson can be reached at 887-3537. The general Refuge phone number is 887-4106.

Troy Cichosz, 16, Battle Ground, died at the scene of a motor vehicle accident Oct. 4 at 20900 NE Lucia Falls Road, Yacolt.

According to the Clark County sheriff's office, Cichosz was westbound on Lucia Falls Road in a 1987 Nissan Pathfinder when he crossed the centerline and collided with a 2003 Freightliner bus which was eastbound.

The bus was carrying senior citizens from an Oregon retirement center enroute to the Pomeroy Living History farm.

Cichosz' passenger, a 16-year-old male from Yacolt, along with six people in the bus, were transported to area hospitals for injuries, mostly minor, according to Sgt. David McKay of the sheriff's office.

The remaining 12 people on the bus were transferred to another bus.

An investigation into the 2 p.m. accident is continuing.

Marcus Brotherton, staff reporter

Hockinson High School has officially become part of the fabric of north Clark County.

Dr. Terry Bergeson, state superintendent of public instruction, delivered the keynote address at a dedication ceremony Oct. 3 held in the school's auditorium.

Built to hold 1,500 students, the 137,000 square-foot structure located at 16819 NE 159th St., Brush Prairie, opened its doors to 263 freshman and sophomore students in late August. Each year for the next two years the school will add another grade.

Parents, students, teaching staff, community members, school board members, contractors and elected officials attended the ceremony.

Not everyone was enthusiastic about a new school at the beginning.

Longtime Hockinson resident Roy Matson, who has been on the school board for 13 years, said he was initially reluctant to build a new high school because he thought the project was too big for the area. After community forums yielded positive results and voters backed the high school, Matson changed his mind.

"We've got a good building here," Matson said. "I'm really proud of it. Everyone did a good job."

Bergeson praised the Hockinson School District and community members for their vision and courage to build the new school.

"You have no idea the dreams you've started," Bergeson said. "[Hockinson children] will have a future that's brighter and more creative than we can imagine."

According to Baugh Skanska construction company project manager Jeff Herd, the building will do its job for generations to come.

Design for the high school building includes state-of-the art technological and architectural enhancements such as computer rooms that border shop areas. Students can learn computer programs that directly apply to a variety of industries.

Portions of the facility will be open for public use during after-school hours. Spaces open to community members include the library, media center, athletic facilities and performing arts room with stage and seating for about 450.

Superintendent Barry Gourley lauded conservative financial measures taken to build the $15.37 million structure. Construction costs totaled $119 per square foot, nearly $31 per square foot less than the state average.

"We're extremely proud of this," Gourley said. "It shows a strong commitment to the fiscally conservative values of the Hockinson community."

Parent Rich Carson, who helped facilitate the building's development as part of his responsibilities as County planning director, said the dedication ceremony took on a dual meaning for him.

Not only is he proud of the high school because of the accomplishment it represents for area growth, Carson said, he also looks forward to when his child, now in third grade, will attend the school.

Carson is also running for election to the school board.

"We moved to Hockinson because of the good schools," Carson said. "To have this kind of facility for our child is wonderful."

Students now attending classes agree with Carson.

Tyson Cornman, Jeff Monstad and Connor Flynn are currently sophomores and will be part of the school's first graduating class in 2006. Last year they attended school as ninth graders in a specially-constructed space in Hockinson Middle School.

"This is a great school, particularly compared to last year," Monstad said. "It's really excellent.

Cornman agreed. "It's almost a little overwhelming," he said. "Just the size of it. A lot of it is still empty."

Erica VanNatta, 14, plays in the band as a ninth grader this year. She said the new school is incredible.

"Everything's brand new," VanNatta said. "The halls aren't crowded, lunch lines are short--it's really great."

HOLLAND AMERICA BULB FARM NAMED BUSINESS OF QUARTER

Michele Bloomquist, staff reporter

Holland America Bulb Farm was named business of the quarter by officials of the Woodland Chamber of Commerce.

The business was honored for contributions to the community made by the business through owners Benno and Klazina Dobbe.

"The real reason for this award is the Dobbes enduring commitment to the community," said Chamber member Kathie Griffin who presented the award.

"The list of charitable donations for this family-owned business is outstanding in its own right," Griffin continued.

Contributions include paying one year of rent for the fledgling Woodland Community Service Center, contributions to the A.J. Patnode fund, and work on the Woodland Swimming Pool Committee.

The Dobbes also contribute to the Sunshine Foundation, American Red Cross, United Way, Woodland Rotary, Woodland Beaver Boosters, the Southwest Washington Independent Forward Thrust Foundation, Girl Scouts, Boy Scouts, Northwest Medical Teams, and others said Griffin.

The Dobbes also support Woodland school athletic, music and scholarship programs.

The Farm was also recognized for contributing bulbs and cut flowers to several causes, Griffin said.

Cut flowers from Holland America Bulb Farm have graced the tables at the White House during a state dinner, at the request of former first lady Nancy Reagan.

The Dobbes moved to Woodland from the Netherlands in 1980, leaving behind the family farm to follow

a dream of living in America with their three young children Nicolette, Ben and Stefan.

Today the multi-million dollar company ships bulbs and cut flowers all over the world.

The Farm opened a retail outlet, Royal Dutch Flower Gardens, earlier this year at 1066 S Pekin Rd.

LA CENTER HAS NEW LANDMARK

Totem Pole symbolizes city history

Bill Myers, staff reporter

La Center has a new landmark.

Surrounded by boy scouts, business and community leaders on Oct. 1, mayor Liz Cerveny dedicated a symbolic totem pole to the city.

Carved from an old-growth cedar log by La Center artist Adam McIsaac, the 20-foot pole stands on newly-landscaped ground in front of First Independent Bank near Pacific Hwy. and W 4th St.

The pole is plainly visible to arriving motorists.

The landmark was funded by a $10,000 grant from the Community Foundation of Southwest Washington.

Following a Native American tradition of using totem poles to record history, McIsaac carved figures of a steamboat captain, a pioneer woman and logger into the cedar. Such workers helped build the community and enriched the city's diverse past, said Cerveny.

A thunderbird on top of the pole symbolizes strength and a sense of community, McIsaac said.

At the ceremony, Cerveny presented certificates of appreciation from the city to McIsaac, First Independent Bank officials Bill and Jeanne Firstenberg and Dave Kinney, and Community Foundation representative Anne Digenis.

City public works employees Kim Brown, Vicky Lane and Tom Rhodes received certificates for landscape work at the site.

La Center Boy Scout troop 484 performed color guard services at the event.

LA CENTER ADOPTS NEW DEVELOPMENT RULES

Planned developments may include manufactured homes

Bill Myers, staff reporter

La Center city council members approved ordinances Sept. 24 that allow planned developments, including manufactured home subdivisions, in residential areas.

One ordinance mandates a Type III review with a hearings examiner for planned developments.

Permitted uses within those developments include manufactured home subdivisions.

Developments may be constructed in phases, subject to a schedule approval by a hearings examiner.

Rules spell out application review phases and stipulate that developments be at least 20 acres. Minimum lot sizes for single family residences are 5,000 square feet.

Under a conditional use provision, up to 10 percent of land in a planned development may be designated for commercial or office uses designed to serve residents of a planned development.

Other conditional uses include commercial or office occupancies located on arterial or collector streets, subject to parking, screening and pedestrian requirements.

The ordinance requires developers to avoid critical areas and provide underground utilities, open spaces, recreation areas, pedestrian and vehicle circulation facilities and parking. Another provision calls for perpetual maintenance of common areas.

Council eases manufactured home rules

Council members paved the way for development of more manufactured home parks and subdivisions by replacing the city's manufactured home parks and subdivision ordinance.

Language in the ordinance states the city intends to integrate manufactured home parks or subdivisions into existing or planned residential neighborhoods.

In a preamble to the ordinance, mayor Liz Cerveny said manufactured homes have evolved to a point where they are structurally similar to stick-built homes.

The ordinance allows integration of manufactured home parks or subdivisions that contain homes constructed of "compatible building materials" into existing or planned residential neighborhoods.

Minimum parcel size for a park or subdivision is 5 acres, with a minimum lot size of 5,500 square feet. At least 15 feet is required between buildings.

The ordinance requires perimeter screening and landscaping around boundaries of a park or subdivision, but forbids screening with blank walls.

Lots in parks are required to contain at least 500 square feet of vegetated open space area between the rear of a dwelling and the rear lot line.

Minimum density in a manufactured home park or subdivision, per ordinance rules, is four dwelling units per acre, with maximum density set at six units per acre.

CONSTRUCTION STARTS ON SR 500 INTERCHANGE

Work has begun on a new interchange at SR-500 and NE 112th Ave./Gher Road in Orchards.

When the $26.7 million project is completed by fall 2005, SR-500 will travel up and over NE 112th Ave./Gher Road on a bridge. Motorists on SR-500 will reach surface roads via new exit ramps.

Tapani Underground Inc. of Battle Ground holds the $18.2 million construction contract.

The project will include retaining walls around the interchange to minimize impacts to abutting property owners. Three storm water ponds will collect runoff from the roadway and interchange.

Noise walls will be built along residential areas on northbound I-205 just south of the interchange. Bicycle lanes and sidewalks will be constructed along 112th and Gher to facilitate future extensions.

Officials expect the new interchange to eliminate rear-end accidents on SR 500, and reduce accidents by 40 percent overall. Officials said about 50 accidents occur at the intersection on SR-500 each year.

If the project is not built, officials estimate the average afternoon travel speed through the area would drop to 27 miles per hour by 2010 and 23 mph by 2020.

During the first stage of the project, temporary lanes will be constructed to the north of the existing SR-500 alignment, along with a temporary ramp from northbound I-205 to eastbound SR-500.

Leon Winger, assistant area engineer with the state Department of Transportation in Vancouver, said two temporary lanes in each direction will be constructed, along with a third eastbound lane between I-205 and NE 112th. The third lane will end with a right hand turn at NE 112th Ave.

By about Nov. 1, SR-500 traffic will be moved to the temporary lanes. When the new SR-500 bridge is completed, the temporary lanes will be filled in as ramps are built.

Then the new SR-500 bridge will be constructed along with other improvements.

Traffic on all roads in the area will be affected. For example, left turns onto Gher Road from eastbound SR-500 will be banned, along with left turns onto NE 112th Ave. from westbound SR-500. Traffic wanting to make either of these two left turns will be detoured to Fourth Plain Blvd., then south on Gher Road.

Winger said no businesses will be displaced by the project, and all needed right-of-way has been acquired.

The reconstruction of SR-500 is one of the projects funded by a new five cent gas tax enacted by the state legislature earlier this year. About 80 percent of the project funding came from the new gas tax, along with $2 million from the city of Vancouver.

HIKER FOUND NEAR ST. HELENS

Search and rescue teams found hiker Zachary S. Davies, 18, of Golden, CO, Oct. 1, about nine hours after he was reported overdue.

Davies went on a day hike at the Johnston Ridge Observatory. He was reported missing about 10 p.m. Sept. 30.

A Cowlitz County deputy responded to the scene, assisted by the Skamania County sheriff's Office and Cowlitz County Search and Rescue.

The ground search began about 1 a.m. Oct. 1. Davies was located on Truman's Trail near Spirit Lake about five miles from Johnston Ridge Observatory.

Davies was reported to be in good condition and did not require any medical attention.

SALMON SET RECORDS AT BONNEVILLE DAM

Observers at Bonneville Dam continue to count record numbers of salmon moving upstream.

Officials counted 581,000 fall chinook so far this season, with record-setting numbers mounting as counting continues through November.

In mid-September, counters recorded three consecutive days when more than 40,000 fall chinook passed the crowded viewing window, the highest daily counts in 65 years of record keeping. A single-day record of 45,884 was set Sept. 11.

Officials of the Federal Caucus--the nine federal agencies responsible for salmon recovery in the Columbia River Basin--said they are optimistic about these high numbers.

"We know that favorable ocean conditions have substantially boosted these adult returns," said Witt Anderson, chief of the Army Corps of Engineers fish management office. "But we also believe that the money and effort the region has invested in salmon recovery have appreciably contributed to these numbers."

"While most of the fish are hatchery reared, the wild fish are also making a good showing," said Anderson.

Anderson said improvements at hydroelectric dams, better management of salmon hatcheries and restoration of streamside habitat as factors contributing to salmon recovery.

Anderson listed factors contributing to fish recovery as spills for fish passage at dams, juvenile bypass facilities at dams, and predator management.

Information, Brian Gorman, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, (206) 526-6613.

VIRAL MENINGITIS SUSPECTED IN TWO CHILDREN

Two school-age children have been hospitalized recently in Clark County with suspected cases of viral meningitis

Dr. Karen Steingart, health officer with the Clark County Health Department, said the disease is serious but rarely causes death, and is not unusal. She said the two cases do not appear to be related.

The two infected children attend schools in Clark County, but Steingart declined to identify the schools.

Viral meningitis causes fever, severe headache, stiff neck, light-sensitive eyes, drowsiness or confusion, nausea and vomiting.

The viral meningitis virus can be spread by saliva, sputum and nasal secretions, said Steingart. This usually happens, she said, when someone touches an infected person and then rubs his or her own nose, mouth or eyes.

The virus may also be passed in the stool and spread to others by contaminated hands.

Symptoms last seven to 10 days, said Steingart. A person exposed to viral meningitis can develop symptoms in three to six days.

"The most important preventive measure is thorough hand-washing," said Steingart.

Other actions that can be taken to avoid the illness are not sharing bottles, eating utensils, drinks, food and lipstick.

Viruses live on surfaces, added Steingart. It is therefore advisable to clean countertops and bathrooms with a household cleaner or a dilute bleach solution.

Steingart said there is no treatment for viral meningitis. Patients are encouraged to get bed rest and drink fluids.

Steingart distinguished the disease, which is an inflammation of the covering of the brain, from the more serious and deadly bacterial meningitis.

Bacterial and viral meningitis have the same symptoms, said Steingart. Bacterial meningitis can be accompanied with a rash or blotschy skin.

Steingart urged anyone with severe headache, stiff neck, or fever of 101 degrees or higher to see a physician.

In declining to identify the schools at which the two children with suspected viral meningitis attend, Steingart said that there is "no specific risk at a school setting," although the disease is more common among children.

Steingart said health care providers reported high levels of viral meningitis cases this past summer.

Steingart can be reached at 397-8412.

PADDEN FINALLY COMPLETELY OPEN

Heidi Wallenborn, news director

Although Padden Parkway is completely open for it's nearly 6-mile east-west stretch between NE 53rd Ave. and Ward Rd., some finish work is still underway.

The final leg of the Parkway between NE 78th St. and Andresen Rd. opened to traffic Sept. 29.

Landscaping and clean-up will continue through the fall, and wetland planting and maintenance work will be in progress intermittently through the next few years.

The nearly $42 million project began construction in 2000 and was competed in segments, said Clark County Public Works Department director Pete Capell.

The project is on time and budget, Capell said, even though the plan changed its scope as construction progressed.

Because of community involvement during construction, pedestrian bridge crossings were added as well as alternatives to provide continuous access for bicyclists and pedestrians, Capell said.

Federal grants offset the cost of the additions, Capell said.

Idea conceived in 1954

The notion to build an east-west corridor from Orchards to Sifton was conceived about 40 years ago by County highway engineer Cecil Kinder. At that time, state engineers said NE 78th St. would be able to handle all future traffic.

However, County officials disagreed and the expressway was adopted in 1960 as part of the County's comprehensive plan. Successive County commissioners agreed with Kinder's vision and began purchasing rights-of-way for the future. One of the first parcels purchased was part of a dairy farm owned by a Padden family, so the project was named after them.

The commissioner's foresight to purchase undeveloped land saved time and millions of dollars, Capell said. If County officials had waited, those pieces likely would have been developed, which would have added "tremendous cost" to the project.

"So many [road] projects are reactionary where we respond to a problem that already exists," Capell said. "If we hadn't had the opportunity to purchase unimproved ground, it would have cost the public more. [This project] is to be applauded."

The original plan was to make the Parkway a two-lane road and widen later, but about five years ago planners chose to save money "in the long run" by making it four lanes to accommodate population growth, Capell said.

Kinder's vision that NE 78th St. would not be effective as an east-west route is proving true.

According to Bill Wright with the public works department, traffic counts in just four years have escalated:

In fall 1999 the section of Padden west of SR-503 showed 6,637 eastbound vehicles daily and 5,995 westbound.

Two years later at the three-legged intersection of Andresen and Padden, 10,884 westbound vehicles passed through in one day; 9,208 headed east.

In May this year the east portion of Padden from NE 137th Ave. saw 10,526 westbound vehicles and 7,610 eastbound daily. However, the west portion from NE 137th Ave. showed a whopping 11,314 westbound travelers and 12,955 eastbound--equivalent to the population of a small city.

Although traffic counts are high on the new expressway, it was designed to handle 15,000 daily trips, planners said.

Scenic, too

Environmental features and enhancements for pedestrians and bicyclists were part of the original vision as well.

The parkway boasts a pedestrian/bicycle pathway along the entire length of the corridor, two pedestrian/bicycle bridges, scenic wetland areas along the western segment and extensive natural landscaping along the entire corridor.

Not only is the project practical, it's beautiful, Capell said.

"I drove through there the other day and saw some of the landscaping has matured," he said. "Padden is a parkway, a limited access principal arterial, but it also provides greenery. It's a nice section."

"Passengers in vehicles can look out their window, bicyclists and pedestrians can enjoy the scenery," he added. "Not only is Padden very functional, it's aesthetically pleasing."

The project was funded through the County road fund and traffic impact fees.

Marcus Brotherton, staff reporter

Officials of the Ridgefield School District have created a new communications structure to informally connect with community members.

Officials have dubbed the new structure Chat Sessions, and have scheduled one session each month for 2003-2004.

Two Chat Sessions were also held at the end of last school year.

Superintendent Mary Vagner said the new forums were created to address the need for more communication with District patrons, an issue that came to light last spring at several community-wide gatherings.

"It's a strategy that offers a more informal connection than board meetings do," Vagner said. "We want to hear what community members have to say."

Unlike board meetings, which are formal meetings geared for board members and conducted in public, Chat Sessions will allow more informal interaction and discussion opportunities with patrons, Vagner said.

Each session will explore a topic pertinent to schools. An agenda will be provided at each session, yet discussion about additional subjects is invited, Vagner said.

Advance notice of additional subjects would be appreciated so that school officials can research topics if necessary, but citizens are welcome to discuss items without advance notice.

"The hour will have structure," Vagner said. "Still, it's an open exchange."

Chat sessions will be held at different times to more effectively reach different population segments, Vagner said.

Board members, District administration, and school staff as applicable to topics will attend.

A session was held Oct. 1 related to levy and bond issues.

Upcoming Chat Sessions for 2003-2004 are tentatively scheduled as follows:

** Wed., Oct. 22, noon, South Ridge Elementary School, 502 NW 199th St., about curriculum adoptions for 2003-2004 and 2004-2005;

** Wed., Nov. 19, 7 p.m., Union Ridge Elementary School, 330 N 5th, about site-based instructional goals;

** Tues., Jan. 20, noon, View Ridge Middle School, 5th and Pioneer, about school safety;

** Wed., Feb. 18, 7 p.m., South Ridge Elementary, about the impacts and implementation of federal No Child Left Behind legislation;

** Wed., March 17, noon, Union Ridge Elementary, about issues related to business services such as transportation, maintenance and food services;

** Wed., April 21, 7 p.m., library at Ridgefield High School, 2630 S Hillhurst Rd., about school improvement plans and a follow up discussion of year's goals; and

** Tues., May 18, noon, View Ridge Middle School, about student and staff accomplishments for 2003-2004.

For more information, contact the District office, 2724 S Hillhurst Rd., 887-0200.

RANDALL YOUTH GETS PROBATION

Heidi Wallenborn, news director

Nathan Randall, 12, changed his plea Oct. 2 to of one count of reckless endangerment for his part in a pump-powered BB gun shooting incident in Battle Ground July 26. Another charge of second degree malicious mischief was dropped.

Randall was sentenced by Superior Court judge Robert Harris to one year probation and 16 weeks of community service, recommended by juvenile prosecuting attorney Tanya Riddell.

Randall was also allowed to live in his parents' home. At a prior hearing, judge Diane Woolard sent him to live with relatives under close supervision until the sentencing.

Prior to Randall's sentencing, four other Battle Ground area youths involved in the altercation were given deferred sentences for one year, meaning no punishment is likely if they stay out of trouble for that time.

Randall is the son of Clark County sheriff Sgt. Craig Randall, whose daughter was accidentally shot and killed by Nathan's 14-year-old brother, Matthew, in January. Nathan was present in the room when the accident occurred.

Nathan Randall admitted to firing a BB round at a passing car in the July incident. The car was not struck.

The malicious mischief charge was dropped because he was not present when two other youths fired at a van shattering a window, and at the van's owner, who was shot in the leg when he stepped out to investigate, said Riddell.

"The police report wasn't clear" that Randall wasn't present at the time of the shooting, Riddell said, thus the dropped charge.

Before sending the youth home, Harris asked Nathan's father if there were any unsecured guns in the home.

Craig Randall said he abides by the Sheriff's Office mandate to lock-up his department issued firearms.

Randall's attorney, Michael Borge, reportedly said Nathan's shooting at a vehicle was "a dumb move," he is a "normal 12-year-old," and that they sometimes "do stupid things."

Borge said although he is pleased with the judge's ruling, he believes it "would have been different if Nathan wasn't related to Matthew."

Borge declined to elaborate.

"The case is resolved," he said.

Date changed, media not notified

Randall's sentencing was originally scheduled for Oct. 7, but was moved ahead six days.

Riddell said media were not notified of the change because it is not the court's job to let the media know hearing and sentencing changes.

"It's not unusual for a court date to be changed," Riddell said, and added that there was no intention to purposely shut media out, "although we hoped [the media] wouldn't find out."

"Most of our cases are settled before trial when there's a change of plea," she added. "Court dates are changed all the time."

ORCHARDS MAN CAUSES STIR WITH COUNTY AND BG POLICE

Heidi Wallenborn, news director

Orchards resident Larry L. Inman, 35, found himself in hot water Oct. 2 with Clark County sheriff's deputies and Battle Ground police.

About 1 p.m., Inman reportedly fled the scene after rear-ending a Battle Ground city-owned business vehicle.

According to a Sheriff's Office report, Inman pulled up behind a sheriff deputy's car on his way south from Battle Ground about 1:10 p.m. while the deputy was conducting a traffic stop at NE 131st St. and SR-503 in Orchards.

The deputy reportedly approached Inman's vehicle and asked what he needed. Inman allegedly replied he was there to help the deputy.

After the deputy asked for identification, Inman reportedly said he didn't have any and accelerated into southbound traffic at a high rate of speed.

The deputy pursued the silver Nissan Xterra which headed east onto NE 119th St. Information about the Oregon license plate check didn't return, so the deputy called off the chase.

According to sheriff's office spokesperson Sgt. Melanie Kenoyer, the department's policy is to discontinue a chase unless it's a known felony crime or a danger to the public such as DUI.

Battle Ground police, however, told the deputy the description of the silver sports utility vehicle matched their hit-and-run suspect, except the vehicle had a Washington license plate.

The deputy returned to the area the SUV had last been seen and found it near the 14300 block of NE 94th St. The Xterra sported a Washington plate in front and Oregon plate on the rear. The vehicle had been reported stolen.

A witness told the officer the driver ran east and hurtled a fence.

York Elementary School in the nearby Evergreen School District was put into lock-down for about one and one-half hours while the search was on, due to the suspect's alleged unusual actions, Kenoyer said.

A K-9 unit was called in and found Inman near the 9300 block of NE 147th Ave. in Brush Prairie. Inman was taken to Southwest Washington Medical Center to be treated for dog bites.

Sheriff deputies are considering charging Inman with first degree possession of stolen property, attempt to elude and possession of a controlled substance, methamphetamine.

SHERIFF'S CANINES ARE "BULLET PROOF"

Heidi Wallenborn, news director

Four dogs in the Clark County Sheriff's Office are wearing ballistic, commonly known as bullet-proof, vests as their deputy handlers do while on duty.

The vests are discards previously worn by deputies. Jim Noble of the Jim Noble Company of Vancouver refitted the shields for dogs. Clark County Kennel Club members paid for the alterations.

Dogs must undergo more than 600 cross-training hours before being designated as part of a law enforcement K-9 unit. According to Sheriff's officials, the Clark County program is successful with several drug finds, crime scene evidence detections and more than 100 captures this year.

WOODLAND MAN SAYS MISSING BROTHER WAS SLAIN

"We'll continue the search and won't let up"

Woodland resident Dave Richards is convinced that his 29-year-old brother Mike Richards, missing since Feb. 6, was murdered by drug users and/or dealers.

Dave Richards said he led a 12-person search for his brother's body Sept. 28 near Englert Road east of Woodland, where the missing man was last seen at a party. Police were not present during the search, said Richards.

"My mother is very distressed over my brother's disappearance, and I want closure for her sake," said Richards. He and other family members are knocking on doors and asking questions about his brother's disappearance.

"We'll continue the search for Mike until we find him, we won't let up," said Richards.

Woodland police chief Grover Laseke and Cowlitz County Sheriff's spokesperson Charles Rosenzweig said the Mike Richards investigation is still open.

Rosenzweig said a previous search of the Englert Rd. area by Sheriffs deputies and cadaver dogs came up empty. Laseke said police have been unable to develop proof that the missing man met with foul play.

Anyone with information is asked to contact officer Terry Casey, Woodland Police Department, 360-225-6965.

Marcus Brotherton, staff reporter

The race for position 2 on the Battle Ground School Board is heating up.

Newcomer Leslie Jones is challenging incumbent Karen Lehman for the spot.

Incumbent Sam Kim is running unopposed for position 4.

The Reflector recently spoke to Lehman and Jones about their views on various profile and election issues. The following is a summary of their responses:

Incumbent Karen Lehman

Lehman, 50, works as a speech language therapist for the Camas School District.

For the past 27 years, Lehman has worked in various facets of special education.

Lehman holds a bachelor's degree in speech pathology and a master's in deaf education from Pacific University, and a national certification in audiology, similar to a master's degree, from Portland State University. She is currently working on a doctorate in educational leadership from Washington State University.

Lehman and her husband, John, have three children. Lehman's hobbies include reading, quilting and cooking.

Challenger Leslie Jones

Jones, 46, is a community activist and homemaker.

Previously, Jones worked as an attorney for two and one-half years representing government agencies.

Jones holds a bachelor's degree from Texas A & M University and a doctorate of juris prudence degree from the University of Houston.

Jones and her husband, Donald, have two children. Jones's hobbies include photography, reading and volunteering at school.

** Why do you want to run for Battle Ground School Board?

Lehman: "I want to continue the forward direction within the District. By forward, I mean a school board that works well together, supports District policies, and supports an interest-based approach to negotiations as a basis for decision-making."

Jones: "Because there needs to be a voice for parents and taxpayers on the school board. Right now I don't see that. It concerns me all five board members consistently vote unanimously."

** What is the number one issue currently facing the District?

Lehman: "Living up to our fiscal responsibilities to taxpayers and using the budget to address as many needs as possible. This is difficult considering we face huge legislative cuts in funding."

Jones: "Trust. Trust between the District and the community, and between departments inside the District. Without trust you can't move forward."

** Describe your opinion of the job done by present administration under superintendent Shonny Bria.

Lehman: "I think Shonny has done an extraordinary job in a very challenging set of circumstances. When she came to Battle Ground, board members were fighting with each other to the point of filing lawsuits, the District had mismanaged its money and was in dire financial straits, and trust between District administration, employees, parents and patrons was almost non-existent.

"Shonny is in her sixth year here in Battle Ground. We have now passed a levy on the first try for the first time in 30 years, we have new curriculum adoptions that align themselves with the mandatory state standards, our test scores continue to improve from where they were, and District employees are much happier."

Jones: "That's a difficult question because I wasn't here before Dr. Bria arrived. There's a lot of room for improvement. We don't have enough of a skills package in the District presently to run it. Shonny has skills, but not every department has the skills they need to do their job effectively."

** If elected, what contributions do you believe you can make to the District?

Lehman: "I believe my positive and supportive behavior during board meetings sets an example to others, which is to publicly provide backing for what they are doing on a regular basis.

"One of my biggest areas of interest is curriculum and instruction, so I like learning about what that involves, and I also like to show my interest in new textbook adoptions.

"I also try to attend as many events in as many schools (plays, concerts, benefit auctions, etc.) as I can, given my schedule limitations."

Jones: "Voters will always know where I stand. Also, I know my legal experience will benefit the District."

** If you could tell Battle Ground voters one thing, what would it be?

Lehman: "Children have always been the focus of my life, both personal and professional. I have spent my entire adult life working with special needs children in almost every way possible. I want to see all children who reside within the District's boundaries succeed in every way to the best of their abilities. Our District is committed to making sure that happens.

"I ran for the board because of my convictions that children are our key to a better future, and we owe it to them to do the best we possibly can with whatever resources we are given."

Jones: "I'd tell [voters] to ask questions. Always ask questions."

RIDGEFIELD SCHOOL BOARD CANDIDATES DISCUSS ISSUES

Marcus Brotherton, staff reporter

The race for positions on the Ridgefield School Board involves four citizens vying for two seats.

Newcomer Chris Swindell is challenging incumbent Mary Byrne for position 3.

Newcomer Ray Warner is challenging incumbent Cathy Kreger for position 5.

Incumbent Wendi Morris is running unopposed for position 2.

The Reflector recently spoke to the candidates about their views on various election issues. The following is a summary of their responses:

Incumbent Mary Byrne

Byrne, 53, is a homemaker and works part-time as an instructional reading aide at La Center Elementary School.

Previously, Byrne worked as director of laboratory services for a non-profit blood center in Florida.

Byrne holds a bachelor's degree in biology and is a certified medical technologist specializing in blood banking.

She and her husband, Jim, have three children. Byrne's hobbies are reading, needlework and traveling.

Challenger Chris Swindell

Swindell, 61, works as a general contractor and owns Mt. View Business Park.

Swindell has worked for 32 years as a self-employed contractor.

Swindell graduated from Ridgefield High School and from a four-year carpentry apprenticeship program at Clark College.

He and his wife, Diane, have three children and 11 grandchildren. Swindell's hobbies are fishing and hunting.

Incumbent Cathy Kreger

Kreger, 50, is a homemaker and graduate student at Portland State University, working on a master's degree in counseling with a specialty in school counseling.

Previously, Kreger worked as a high school science teacher in the Vancouver School District.

Kreger holds a bachelor's degree in science from Oregon State University and a master's degree in science education from Temple University.

Single, Kreger has three children. Her hobbies are skiing, scuba diving, backpacking and sea kayaking.

Challenger Ray Warner

Warner, 43, is a trainer and troubleshooter for Frito Lay. He worked in dairy farming while in school and has worked for Frito Lay for the past 23 years.

Warner graduated from Ridgefield High School and has taken college classes at Clark College.

Warner and his wife, Sam, do not have children. Warner enjoys snowskiing, backpacking, hiking and horseback riding.

** Why do you want to run for Ridgefield School Board?

Byrne: "The child should be the focal point of education. For the past eight years, in which I've been a member of the board, this has been the case. This needs to continue.

"Five years ago the District and community developed a strategic plan which set the road map for our District. We have made the right decisions for the right reasons, grounded on what the community at large wanted.

"We are at a point where a new strategic plan needs to be developed with the District and the community, taking into account the new federal and state regulations."

Swindell: "I feel this school board has a total lack of communication with the community. They only communicate with who they want to."

Kreger: "I find the position challenging and satisfying working with the three areas I'm most passionate about--students, families and the community.

"Ridgefield's programs have made wonderful strides of late. I'm excited about where we're going."

Warner: "I feel that there needs to be some change in the school board--in their thoughts and direction in regard to the community, teacher's union and classified union.

** What is the number one issue currently facing the District?

Byrne: "Growth. Enrollment's been flat, but that's temporary. A number of developments and businesses are moving in the area. Schools are currently at capacity. Decisions need to be made as to what types of new schools are needed, what types of curriculum does the community at large want, and how do we want to shape our schools."

Swindell: "Growth, also communication issues."

Kreger: "Adequate school funding in light of the current state budget of this biennium."

Warner: "Morale of the teacher's unions, and also growth. We've got a lot of new homes coming in to the area so our facilities will have to change. As a community we need to look at all the options."

** Describe your opinion of the job done by present administration under superintendent Mary Vagner.

Byrne: "I'm very pleased with the direction that's been taken. Superintendent Vagner is very knowledgeable on state, federal and testing regulations. She sets the standard for work ethic and being a role model.

"[Vagner] also encourages the board to be involved politically at a state level. We've had [Sen. Joseph] Zarelli over to the District three times. [Vagner] is also pushing the super majority issue--trying to get the legislature to only require a simple majority."

Swindell: "I think they're doing a fair job, but again, there's a lack of communications with staff."

Kreger: "Present administration is doing an extremely commendable job. Mary Vagner uses a strong team approach and excellent leadership skills. [Vagner] works hard to carry out the vision of the board and community of Ridgefield."

Warner: "I disagree with the direction they're going. There's not community involvement. Decision making is being held to the school board and administration. There has not been enough regard to the concerns from the community."

** If elected, what contributions do you believe you can make to the District?

Byrne: "I can give my time. I'm also very thorough. I read all the information given to the board and ask questions. I'm a member of the Federal Relations Network Committee and am up on public education and funding from a federal policies level. I also have two children in the District still, and am interested in the overall education of the community. I aim to listen to the community."

Swindell: "I want to get the communication doors open and get everybody working together. We're going to need new facilities soon and we need to decide what they're going to be. We need to open that discussion up and talk about it."

Kreger: "I bring an educational background to the board. I've also had eight years on the board, so I bring experience--I believe having experience on the board is critical at this point in time. I can understand the process of where the District's coming from and going to."

Warner: "I bring an open mind to look at all options in decision-making. My aim is to get all input, weigh all options and make a collective decision. Ultimately, it's all about getting the kids the proper education--to best give them what we have to offer."

** If you could tell Ridgefield voters one thing, what would it be?

Byrne: "As a community we need to look to the future and give our children what they need to help their tomorrow."

Swindell: "The main thing is, we have a total lack of communication and we need to get where we're all working together or we won't pass a bond, and we'll be lucky to pass levies."

Kreger: "It has been an honor and a privilege serving Ridgefield voters these past eight years. I ask for your support this election so that we may continue to successfully carry out the quality educational programs of our District and to creatively solve tomorrow's new challenges."

Warner: "Here's an opportunity for a time to change. I appreciate your support."