TIGER MUSKIE CAUGHT IN LEWIS RIVER

Bill Myers, staff reporter

Catching a tiger muskie in the Lewis River is a longshot, but Battle Ground angler Josh Bettesworth beat the odds.

Betteworth beached a 43-inch tiger Oct. 6 near the Lewis River Hatchery.

Dusk was shutting daylight down when Bettesworth saw a patch of slack water explode after he flipped a Blue Fox spinner into it.

Betteworth had just started to retrieve the spinner, tied to a six-pound leader attached to 30-pound test line.

"I thought it was a salmon at first," said an excited Bettesworth. "The fish streaked out of nowhere and smacked the spinner like a ton of bricks. Then it tail-walked across the water and then ran like a torpedo."

Tiger muskies are voracious predators, planted each year for the past five years at Lake Merwin to control suckers and pike minnows (formerly known as squaw fish), said state Fish and Wildlife official Pat Phillips.

Phillips, manager of the Lewis River Hatchery complex, said the muskie likely spilled from Merwin Dam during high water dam run-offs in February.

Phillips said three other smaller muskies were reported since the run-off. After high water a few years ago, two muskies were found just above the hatchery, said Phillips.

Tiger muskies are hybrid predators produced in Minnesota by cross-breeding muskellunge with other species of fish, Phillips said. The process, like breeding horses with donkeys, results in sterile offspring with sharp teeth and big appetites.

Bettesworth said he found the muskie's belly full of salmonid smolt.

Phillips said few salmon or steelhead smolt are in the river at this time of year. Muskies in the river tend to be lethargic because of cool water, and will prey on suckers or other slow-moving species. "Muskies do more good than harm in the river," said Philips.

BURN BAN LIFTED FOR CLARK/COWLITZ

Michele Bloomquist, staff reporter

The summer-long burn ban will be lifted in both Clark and Cowlitz counties on Thurs., Oct. 16.

The state Department of Natural Resources will lift their ban on the same day.

In Clark County, citizens are required to obtain a free burning permits from their nearest fire station

The printed permit requires citizens to call the Southwest Washington Clean Air Agency for an update on conditions prior to lighting an outdoor fire.

The Agency can be reached at 574-3058, ext. 6.

Permits allow burn piles smaller than 10 feet by 10 feet, according to Clark County fire marshall David Lynam. A separate burn permit is required for larger piles. Contact the fire marshall office, 397-2186 extension 0 for details.

In Cowlitz County, a permit is required for piles 4 feet by 4 feet to 10 feet by 10 feet. A special permit is required for larger piles. Call 1-800-633-0709 for more information.

In both counties, burning is limited to natural vegetation and/or firewood. Burning garbage and burning in barrels is prohibited.

Outdoor fires must be monitored at all times.

Those who allow a fire to escape its bounds through proven negligence may be required to pay the cost of putting the fire out, said Lynam.

Due to clean air regulations, burning is prohibited inside the Vancouver, Battle Ground, and Longview/Kelso urban growth boundaries.

As the ban is lifted, Lynam issued a warning:

"Don't use flammable materials to start fires," he said. "We have several people burned each year that way. Use just enough paper or cardboard instead to get a pile lit."

Lynam also suggests covering materials to be burned with a tarp. Doing so will keep the pile dry so it lights easily.

For more information on burning in Clark County, call 397-2186 extension 0 or visit www.clark.wa.gov

For information on burning in Cowlitz County, call 1-800-633-0709.

For daily updates and changing burn restrictions on Department of Resources protected land, call 1-800-323-BURN (2876) or visit the website at www2.wadnr.gov/burn-risk/

WOODLAND CHAMBER TO HOST COUNCIL CANDIDATE FORUM

Michele Bloomquist, staff reporter

Woodland voters are invited to attend a Tues., Oct. 21 city council candidate forum sponsored by the Woodland Chamber of Commerce.

The event will be at noon, at The Oak Tree Restaurant, 020 Atlantic.

Each candidate will have five minutes to introduce themselves, followed by a question and answer period with the audience, said event organizers.

Council position 4 incumbent Darryl Maunu and challenger Chris Haughee will debate, along with incumbent Jim Tone, who is running for council position 5 unopposed.

Maunu, 49, moved outside Woodland in 1975 to be near his grandparents who own a farm in the area. He moved inside the city limits in 1980.

Maunu and his wife of 25 years have four children, now grown.

Maunu works in the construction trade. In his free time he enjoys riding off road vehicles and raising awareness of their safe and proper use.

If re-elected, Maunu would ensure the city has adequate police and fire protection. He would also like to see a swimming pool built.

Although Maunu believes Woodland will need a city manager system someday, now is not the time, he said.

During his four years on council, Maunu has enjoyed working with and getting to know city employees and citizens, he said.

Maunu believes the current city government is running smoothly overall and he will continue to support that.

"Woodland works," he said.

Haughee, 29, has lived in the area since 1997 with his wife, Kim.

Haughee is the youth pastor at Woodland Presbyterian Church and serves as vice chair of the Woodland Community Service Center.

Hobbies include playing the guitar, woodworking, basketball and baseball.

Haughee decided to run for council because he wants to serve the youths and citizens of Woodland.

Haughee supports the move toward a city manager or city administrator form of government, and supports the planned construction of a pool in Horseshoe Lake Park.

Tone, 50, has lived in the Woodland area 26 years.

Tone is a planner and scheduler for a Portland dairy. He served 22 years as a volunteer firefighter for the Woodland fire department.

In his free time, Tone enjoys gardening and fishing.

Tone would like to see the city change to a city administrator form of government within the next three years.

Tone believes having a full-time city administrator would pay off for the city in decreased costs and better contract negotiations.

For more information about the forum, call (360) 225-9552.

TOURIST GROUPS VIE FOR HOTEL MOTEL TAX FUNDS

Michele Bloomquist, staff reporter

With $43,000 in requests and $28,000 to spend, Woodland faces a predicament that is clear to city council members: they'll have to say "no" to someone.

The funds up for grabs are collected from a hotel/motel tax earmarked to promote tourism to the region.

No final decisions about how to allocate the money were made at an Oct. 6 budget work session.

Four groups currently share the fund, but not equally.

The fund's largest request came from officials of the Chamber of Commerce Tourist Information Center, who asked for $29,000 for 2004.

Mayor Jim Graham and Woodland clerk treasurer Mari Ripp countered with a $23,000 recommendation for the Information Center, or about 76 percent of what is available.

The second largest request came from the Cowlitz County Tourism Board for $4,000 to promote tourist destinations in and around Woodland in their annual publication, the Awesome Brochure.

City officials countered with a recommendation of $2,000, about seven percent of the fund. The Chamber needs to make up the other $2,000 from their funds, officials said.

Another request came from the Hulda Klager Lilac Gardens, for $3,850. The city countered with $2,700, about 9 percent.

The Cowlitz County Historical Museum requested $2,000 in funding.

City officials recommended $500, about two percent.

The smallest request came from the Planter's Days Committee, for $1,500.

City officials counter offered, $250, less than one percent of the revenue.

After officials representing each group pleaded their causes, the meeting was adjourned without council authorization of final amounts.

Listening to pleas and making counter offers is a different approach from last year's budgeting work sessions. Previously, council members deliberated on requests versus staff recommendations to arrive at final figures.

"It would be nice to fund all of the requests to their fullest," said Graham. "But we're just not in that position."

Dividing the hotel/motel tax money will be considered again as final budget negotiations draw near, Graham said.

Budget work sessions will continue Mondays, Oct. 20 and 26, 7 p.m., at city hall, 100 Davidson Ave.

For more information, call (360) 225-8281.

BG COUNCIL HEARS CHURCH PLEA FOR CODE CHANGE

Living Hope members pack city hall for Meyer's Marketplace

Heidi Wallenborn, news director

Six hours before a Battle Ground city council meeting Oct. 6, pastor John Bishop sat in his church office in Vancouver, palms sweating.

"I'm more nervous about facing seven people than I am talking to 600 on a Sunday," the young senior pastor said. "My stomach has been in knots all weekend."

Bishop is the pastor at Living Hope Community Church which currently meets at Prairie High School. Attendees number 400-600, with nearly 200 youths.

Bishop and about 150 parishioners packed Battle Ground city hall Oct. 6 to plead with council members and staff to change a zoning ordinance that would enable them to turn the vacant Meyer's Marketplace building into a youth/community center.

Every seat was taken, people lined the back walls and sat on floors.

"I love to see a full house," said mayor John Idsinga.

Council meeting attendance is typically a handful of people--city staff, media, or high school students seeking extra credit. If anyone ever chooses to speak during citizen comment time, it's usually not more than 15 minutes total at three minutes each.

That night, citizen comments ran one hour.

Land and people value

In the recent past, Idsinga was outspoken about keeping the Meyer's Markektplace land for commercial use and not handing it over to any non-profit organization.

Idsinga said his concerns are the nearly $5,000 annual loss in property taxes because non-profits are exempt, and the loss of potential jobs and sales tax revenue.

Although the property located on the southeast corner of W Main St. and SR-503 is currently an eyesore, Idsinga and other council members hoped a company would snatch the parcel and revitalize the plaza and the vacant building.

"The biggest issue," Bishop said before the meeting, "is why make a decision based solely on money when teens' lives are in jeopardy and challenged?"

Executive Pastor Duane Warren agreed, and added, "[Council] needs to decide what's in the best interest of people in the community rather than what's best for the budget."

"We don't want to fight the city," Bishop said. "We want to help people and build a community."

Both men also said the empty building is used now by youths but for illegal activity.

"Change the code"

This was the second time Bishop approached city council members to change a city code that prohibits church use in commercial zones.

Bishop and four others made the same appeal Sept. 15.

Another pastor of a different church also spoke with council members in late August with similar plans for the vacant building and lot.

Conversation never got as far as code changes, likely because the church, Wellspring Foursquare, was not as far along in plans as the Living Hope congregation.

According to Bishop, he has a "handshake" understanding with building owners Bob Oja and Floyd Steen to purchase the building outright by 2008 for about $2.5 million when the Associated Grocers lease expires.

Paul Mackie, pastor of Wellspring, had been working with the real estate agent.

Bishop said they hope to work out a lesser lease agreement with Associated Grocers with financial help to "fix the place up" as soon as possible.

Plans are to make the 38,000 square-foot building into a place for public and civic meetings, and special events such as concerts, plays, dramas and theater.

Youths could use an Internet cafe, after-school tutoring, game rooms with pool, foosball and air hockey tables, and video games, Bishop said.

Sports would be incorporated with a skateboard area, basketball court and space for rollerblade hockey.

Bishop said surrounding businesses support the idea "wholeheartedly" and have pledged incentives for students who show scholastic progress and/or exemplary citizenship.

Church leaders also say they have financial backing to pull the vision off.

"It's doable," said Warren. He said the church has a building fund and leaders are in the process of finding corporate sponsors for the recreational portion. At this point, no user fees are anticipated, he said.

Why Meyer's Marketplace?

Church leaders said there's no time to waste looking for property, going through a design and permit process and building.

"It's too expensive and would take too much time," Warren said. He added that youths need a place to go to now. "If one kid doesn't commit suicide because we were there, it will be worth it."

Youth pastor Clinton asked council members where youths are supposed to go in Battle Ground other than the corner by Burgerville, Fatty Patty's or a parking lot.

"Kids need a place to be," he said. "If this isn't gonna work, what is?"

Gus Harb of Harb Engineering put teeth to the church's plea by informing council members the city code against churches on commercial land is unconstitutional.

Currently, city code allows non-profit organizations to use commercial land, but not religious groups.

However, Congressional public law states no government shall impose or implement a land use regulation in a manner that treats a religious assembly or institution on less than equal terms with a non-religious assembly or institution.

City manager Eric Holmes said under current city code a church could operate a recreational facility, but not hold religious services.

Holmes also said city staff and legal council are currently examining city codes for legality and will make any necessary changes to comply with the law.

What's next?

In an interview after the council meeting, Idsinga wasn't so adamant about commercial use only on the land.

"I'm torn," he said. "This issue is greater than a piece of ground because it involves kids, jobs, economic development and the whole community."

"Any decisions will be made through the public process, and it may take a couple of months," he added. "It has to go through staff and the planning commission before coming to us for review."

Holmes said, "we need more information before we can give answers. There needs to be a plan submitted to the planning director for formal determination. We'll see if it works in the code. If it does work, good. If not, there are a number of avenues we can go."

Will Living Hope still purchase the building if council says `no' to their plans?

"I think we'll buy it anyway, with hope leveraged for the same thing," Bishop said. "This isn't going away. Meyer's Marketplace needs to be a community center."

Marcus Brotherton, staff reporter

Travelers through Orchards may be hard pressed to miss a painted mural at the corner of Covington Rd. and NE Fourth Plain Blvd.

Featuring a historical scene that portrays what the Orchards area may have looked like around 1920, the 75 by 25-foot mural is one part of a plaza which includes a clock tower, park benches, ornamental street lighting, textured pavement and landscaping with a rock wall.

Clark County commissioners Judie Stanton and Betty Sue Morris were on hand Oct. 3 for the formal dedication of the plaza.

Stanton discussed the history of the plaza's formation. The idea for its creation came about several years ago when the County began planning to widen NE Fourth Plain Blvd.

With the input of area citizens and business owners, a vision to improve the overall attractiveness, livability and economic vitality of the neighborhood also emerged, Stanton said.

Stanton called the plaza a "shining example of what can happen when citizens and government work together to improve the community."

"We're not just building roads, we're building community," Stanton said.

Area artists Guy Drennan and Linda Peterson were brought on board after meeting at a Vancouver Chamber of Commerce function. About 100 volunteers helped paint larger segments in a "paint-by-number" approach.

"I think we've picked up the essence of Orchard's history," Drennan said. "I'm happy with how it turned out."

Peterson said one challenge was working on a project as large as the mural.

"We'd paint a little bit, then have to run back to the street to look at it," Peterson said. "Inclement weather didn't help either. But in the end I think it turned out well. We haven't had a negative comment yet."

The project took more than one year to complete.

Orchards resident Pat Collins, who has lived about two blocks from the plaza for the past 15 years, said the project adds to the community.

"It's beautiful," Collins said. "I watched it go up. It really helps beautify the area."

Neighbor Bob Forner, a 20-year Orchards resident, came to the ceremony with his terrier, Bo-doggy.

"I'm a fan of stuff like this," Forner said. "Orchards has seen some terrific changes, but this brings back memories."

Drennan explained the mural:

** Toward the right in the painting is a depiction of a trolley that used to make 10 stops from Vancouver to Orchards to Sifton;

** One of the trolley's stops was at the Orchards Feed Mill, the oldest existing building still standing in the Orchards area;

** At the far right are two stores representative of the area which sold dry goods, stationery and household items. One was called the "Stalniker" store;

** An pre-eruption Mount St. Helens is featured in the middle, prior to its 1980 blast;

** Harvester families and shopkeepers dot the foreground; and

** Views of plums are found in front, indicative of plum orchards in the area.

Clark County officials formally recognized the following contributors to the plaza project:

Clock tower donors: Bunch Construction, Burgerville, Carlson Family, Orchards Feed Mill and First Independent Bank, DeWils.

Park bench donors: Bank of America--Orchards branch, Otak, Dr. Joe & Marilyn Opray, Wade & Julie McLaren and Minuteman Press of Vancouver.

Plaza organizers: Terry Bunch and Diana Shaw.

Materials donors: Bunch Construction, Edward Hall, Miller Paint, United Rental, Vancouver Granite Works and Clark County.

Volunteer painters: Rotary Club of Greater Clark County, Rotary Club of East Vancouver, Covington Middle School students, Frontier Middle School students, Heritage High School students, Columbia River High IB Program students and more.

YACOLT VOTERS WILL CHOOSE MAYOR

Bill Myers, staff reporter

When Yacolt voters punch ballots for the Nov. 4 election, they will decide if they want to keep an incumbent mayor or elect a new one.

Mayor Jim Robertson, running for his second term of office, is opposed by Thomas Holyk.

Robertson notes achievements

Robertson, 61, was born and raised in the Yacolt area and attended Battle Ground schools through high school.

The 61-year-old incumbent did logging and construction work after service with the U.S. Army from 1960-1966.

From 1978-1998, Robertson worked as a foreman or assistant superintendent for the state Department of Natural Resources at Larch Corrections Center. He is currently co-owner of Grammy's Restaurant.

Robertson is divorced and has three grown children and five grandchildren.

Robertson said his successes as mayor include securing over $1 million in grants for street, sidewalk and public utility improvements and a grant to upgrade the city park with new equipment and paving. Sidewalks and parks help keep children safe, he said.

Other sources of pride include securing a planning grant and setting up a steering committee for a new town community center, supporting citizen group work to update the town cemetery and start a Christmas tree lighting program, and water system negotiations with Clark Public Utilities which resulted in lower water bills for city residents.

Challenger focuses on youths

Challenger Thomas Holyk spent his early childhood in Montana and at age 14 moved with his parents to Battle Ground.

Holyk, 62, left high school after the 10th grade to enlist

in the U.S. Army. During six years there, Holyk passed a General Educational Development (GED) test. After Army service, he served 14 years in the Navy.

Community college courses taken over about five years trained him to be a machinist and recreational vehicle technician, said Holyk. While a reserve police officer in California, he took a course in law enforcement.

For 22 years, Holyk worked as a recreational vehicle technician. He moved with his wife and children to Yacolt about 11 years ago, and retired from active employment in May 2003. He and his wife have a 17-year-old son at home.

Holyk said that if elected, being mayor would be his full-time job.

Holyk supports the youths of Yacolt and will work to build a teen center and help youths in town find part-time work if he is elected, he said.

Holyk said he will also encourage small business development in Yacolt and will have an open door policy for everyone at town hall.

ARMSTRONG ARRIVES IN AFGHANISTAN

Tom Armstrong of Battle Ground arrived in Mazar e Sharif, Afghanistan last week on another humanitarian mission.

The trip to the war-torn country is Armstrong's third since the United States invaded the country following the Sept. 11, 2001 terrorist attacks on New York and Washington, D.C.

Armstrong called his wife, Donna Armstrong, to report his safe arrival.

Armstrong, a retired firefighter and paramedic, said he will work about 30 miles southwest of Mazar e Sharif, administering IV fluids, and providing other medical assistance. He said he had commitments from translators, doctors, nurses and pharmacists who will support his efforts.

Armstrong's plan is to spend four nights in outlying villages and then return to Mazar e Sharif for two nights. He said he will transport patients who need operations to area hospitals.

Armstrong said he would take digital pictures or videos of some patients to show to doctors for diagnosis and written prescriptions. The Afghan arm will provide a guard as needed, he said.

Residents continue to suffer shortages of drinking water, said Armstrong, who will hire a 2,000 liter water truck as necessary. People have containers, he said.

Armstrong said he will leave behind a laptop computer, digital camera and a printer for use in neighborhood learning center.

Armstrong said he will translate fire service training manuals into Dari as emergency crews have no such manuals at present.

Armstrong's first trip to Afghanistan was with Northwest Medical Teams. He said his biggest hazards are insects, food diarrhea, dogs and taxi transportation accidents.

He believes he is the only individual U.S. citizen doing medical relief work in Afghanistan. He makes the trips at his own expense. He expects to be in Afghanistan this trip between five and eight weeks.

Growing strawberries is not the simple agricultural endeavor it used to be.

Some neighbors don't want Annie's Berry Farm to grow strawberries on an 11-acre parcel in La Center, arguing against the application of chemicals necessary for growing success.

The two sides are slated to appear in Clark County small claims court in January. Annie Baker has given up on farming the parcel.

Problems began when Annie Baker of Annie's Berry Farm leased the 11 acres and a contractor sprayed with Roundup, a weed and vegetation killer, on May 7.

Neighbors later complained that the Roundup spray had drifted to their properties and damaged vegetation. One neighbor questioned whether the spray could contaminate well water.

On May 22, three neighboring families wrote to Annie Baker, stating that since the spraying occurred, rhododendron plants and pine trees had begun dying at one home and the home "still reeks of chemicals" two weeks later.

Other neighbors, said the letter, where "showered with clouds of chemicals" that coated their organic gardens. Spraying was done on a very windy day, said the letter. "Most people could smell the chemicals and taste them" days later, said the letter.

In the letter, the neighbors expressed concern about chemicals poisoning groundwater, the affects of chemical sprays on babies and animals, a decline in property values, and traffic on the one-lane, dead-end road leading into the area.

The 11 acres, argued the neighbors, are surrounded by homes and are actually two residential building lots. The site is located south of La Center off Timmen Road at NE 309th Circle.

Speaking for Annie's Berry Farm, Sharon Baker said the neighbors harassed their contractors who then declined further work.

Tests showed the presence of nematodes (worms) in the soil which would require an application of the chemical Telone before strawberries could be grown. Faced with neighbor opposition, another contractor, Trident Agricultural Products, refused to apply Telone, telling Baker that "the man (Chris Hansen) is irrational. We do not know what he will do."

"We did nothing illegal," said Sharon Baker, who expressed concern for other farmers and farming practices in general. "They prevented us from continuing to farm."

"The key to this is we can't let this go," said Baker. "These people will not be released from their responsibility toward us. They violated laws that protect farmers who are working responsibly."

Baker said she was able to resell $6,600 worth of plants, but suffered other financial losses resulting in a $2,900 small claims court action. Losses included one year's lease on the property.

The Hansens answered the small claims action and made counterclaims, alleging trespass occurred when chemicals reached their property. The Hansens also argued that any financial losses suffered by Annie's Berry Farm were caused by others.

The Hansens contended that they were immune from liability for filing complaints with governmental agencies.

The Hansens seek $4,000 in penalties and $10,000 in statutory damages.

The Hansens declined to discuss any aspect of the matter until the small claims issues are settled in January 2004.

Sharon Baker said she called for an investigation by the state Department of Agriculture. "We were found to be in the clear," said Baker.

Bob Merkel, area compliance manager with the state Department of Agriculture, met June 4 with Jane Hansen at her home and with Mr. and Mrs. Nessett, other neighbors.

Merkel said he found no evidence of herbicide plant damage, overspray or drift.

Merkel said he explained to the Nessetts that Roundup does not move through soil nor groundwater, and "there was no logical way that the material could have gotten into the well."

Merkel said he suggested that the Nessetts seek help from the Clark County Extension Office to diagnose problems with their rhododendrons.

Merkel said he determined the Roundup application was properly done.

Baker said the Roundup was applied at the minimum level, with a low boom sprayer, and with an additive called "No Drift" to protect against damaging neighboring properties. Farmer Jerry Dobbins was present when the spraying took place, having been called in to pull out a tractor stuck in mud.

"There was no problem," said Dobbins. "The job went perfectly."

Dobbins said the day was not windy, and Roundup did not drift away.

Dobbins, who is also a berry farmer in Woodland and Ridgefield, said he has never had a neighbor complain about his practices, even though he has sprayed closer to homes than in this situation.

"These people are trying to make a problem," said Dobbins, who said he met with Chris Hansen on the day of spraying. But his advice to Annie Baker was to pull out.

"No matter what you did you couldn't make that guy happy," said Dobbins. "In areas where there are homes, we try to have a good rapport with neighbors. We can't afford to put up with that kind of foolishness."

Despite state and county "right to farm" laws, said Dobbins, "there is always a technicality."

"At the end of the day, I called Annie and told her that if this were me, I'd back away."

Sharon Baker questioned why the neighbors allowed two weeks to go by before registering a complaint.

Baker said that in 36 years of berry farming, Annie's Berry Farm has never received a verbal or written monitoring violation from a regulating authority.

Merkel said complaints such as those raised in this situation come up once or twice a month in western Washington, but seldom of this magnitude. In some cases, said Merkel, overspray has damaged neighboring properties, but not in this situation.

"I couldn't find any out-of-bounds plant damage," said Merkel.

Marcus Brotherton, staff reporter

Hockinson resident Jeffrey Hugie, 22, is a man of few words.

"Thank you very much," he said after receiving the award for Clark County Disabled Citizen of the Year.

Vancouver mayor Royce Pollard and state Rep. Bill Fromhold (D-49) read proclamations at an awards ceremony Oct. 9 pronouncing October as Disability Employment Awareness Month, a federally recognized movement.

Hugie's award was presented by Val Ogden, representative for the Clark County Developmental Disability Advisory Board, as part of area activities for Awareness Month.

About 50 area residents huddled under a covered awning for the ceremony held at Esther Short Park. Rain came down in torrents while thunder rolled in the distance. Despite the weather, the crowd clearly enjoyed the ceremony.

"What a great day," said ceremony attendee Karen Sangalli, who lives in the same neighborhood as Hugie. "Jeff is such a great guy. I think I'm gonna cry."

Hugie has indeed overcome obstacles in life. Born with spastic-type cerebral palsy, Hugie's muscles receive about 1,000 times more signals from his brain as other people, explained his mother, Cheryl. The condition affects everything including speech, movement and thought.

Cheryl and her husband, Ron, decided early to mainstream Jeffrey as much as possible, Cheryl said. Hugie always attended regular school, graduating from Prairie High School in 2000, then attending two years of vocational training at Battle Ground High School.

"Jeffrey's younger sister, Ciara, really helped," Cheryl said. "Jeffrey's always been very social and active."

Hugie began volunteering with Regal Cinemas while still in high school. The effort turned into a part-time job soon thereafter which he holds today. Hugie takes tickets, separating them with a specially-designed cutter. He also directs theatre patrons to different shows and checks temperature, volume and lighting levels in theaters once shows have begun.

LA CENTER CANDIDATES DEBATE ISSUES

Bill Myers, staff reporter

Candidates for La Center mayor and city council spoke about their qualifications and fielded questions at an Oct. 1 forum.

It was the second meeting of candidates sponsored by the La Center/North County Chamber of Commerce, the Citizens for La Center Schools Committee and La Center Homeowner Associations.

Dave Holmes, principal of La Center High School, moderated the event and posed questions from audience members.

Curtis vs. Irish

Mayoral candidate Richard Curtis has lived in La Center five years with his wife and two daughters. An Air Force veteran, Curtis is a Vancouver fire captain/paramedic with 18 years of emergency services experience. While in Arizona, Curtis was an emergency medical service district legislative representative.

Curtis said city leaders must aggressively work with Clark County commissioners to expand the city toward the I-5 junction for future jobs, while revitalizing the downtown area.

High school drama plays at a new amphitheater and places to go in a "pretty" downtown will be important to the city's future, he said.

Curtis, who has canvassed neighborhoods and spoken with citizens about recent city council issues, said leaders must stay in touch with constituents.

Jim Irish has lived with his wife and family in La Center for three years.

A U.S. Army veteran, Irish served as a planning commissioner and city councilman in the city of West Richland. He is water quality manager for the Bonneville Power Administration.

Irish said city officials should develop an economic plan to identify ways to attract businesses.

If elected, Irish will be at city hall one night each week to hear from citizens, he said, because the city needs a vocal person to "hammer" legislators and commissioners about city needs.

Birdwell vs. Smith

Bill Birdwell Jr. and Dale Smith are running for city council position 4.

Birdwell, his wife, and two daughters, are 10-year La Center residents.

Birdwell, a machinist, said he will bring a common sense approach to government.

Citizens need to be encouraged to vote and come to meetings, he said. He plans to walk around town to stay in touch with constituents if elected.

Smith has lived in La Center with his wife and three sons for three years. An Air Force veteran, Smith is active with Boy Scouts of America and helped lead a recent La Center School District bond campaign. He is employed in research and development work.

Smith does not want to see the uncontrolled growth he experienced while living in Federal Way. Elected officials need to listen to citizens and be willing to work with everyone as they solve problems, he said.

City leaders should be careful about the types of businesses allowed downtown, Smith said, and could provide tax or zoning incentives to attract them.

Tracy vs. Rivard

Linda Tracy is challenging Linda Rivard for the position 5 city council seat.

Tracy, a La Center resident for three years, owns The Crowning Touch in the city. Work experience includes theater ownership, singing, performing, dispatching for emergency services and various business management positions.

Tracy, an active Chamber of Commerce member, said citizens want managed growth with industry outside the city. Downtown La Center should have quaint antique, craft and art stores, similar to Sisters, OR and Leavenworth, she said.

Asked about allowing multi-family housing units in the city, Tracy said one existing small apartment building in the city looks fine, but another building on Pacific Highway is "very shabby" and not well kept.

Elected officials need to make sure that whatever they do is good aesthetically for the city, she added.

Rivard is a sixth grade school teacher in Vancouver.

She moved to La Center with her husband and children in 1996, and was elected to the city council in 1999. Rivard has a bachelor's degree in business administration and a master's degree in education.

City leaders should work with the Chamber and an independent group to develop an economic plan, said Rivard.

Rivard said the city should contain affordable apartments. It would disturb her to limit the population of La Center only to people who could afford to buy a home, she said.

"We need to create options for all people to live here," she said.

Cat licenses considered

Candidates discussed a question about requiring licenses for cats.

"Won't accomplish much," said Tracy.

"Nearly unenforceable," said Birdwell.

"I'm not qualified to respond because I haven't heard about problems," said Smith.

Curtis said city taxpayers pay for costs to pick up strays and efforts to locate owners. Taxpayers are concerned, said Curtis.

Irish said cat identification tags get the pets back to owners and licensing can bring vaccinations to promote safety of other cats.

"What's in the best interests of residents?" asked Irish.

Rivard said an ordinance could create a domestic animal fund, supported by pet owners for pet needs. Police also need to know where dangerous exotic animals are located, Rivard added.

BG SLOWS PARKS BOND PUSH TO VOTERS

Heidi Wallenborn, news director

Children's crayon drawings depict wish lists on pages throughout a draft Parks Improvement Plan for Battle Ground.

This is what I want, scribbled one child, showing a basketball court. Another sketched a dog park, yet another a skateboard park.

According to representatives of the consulting firm Otak Inc., these are a few examples of community input about what citizens desire within the city limits.

Otak is under contract with the city to conduct open houses, gather citizen information, form a Parks Improvement Committee made up of a variety of citizens and groups, work with the city's Parks Advisory Board members, and put together a working plan, designs and estimated costs for improving Battle Ground parks.

The goal is to take the final idea to voters, asking them to fund park improvements through property taxes.

Otak officials Mandy Roberts and Tom Walsh met with city council members Sept. 29 to present their findings.

Seven parks targeted

Battle Ground owns 183 acres of park and open space land. About 66 acres are wetlands and creek corridors.

Seven existing parks encompassing about 117 acres are noted for improvement in the draft plan.

Central, Fairgrounds, Florence Robison, Gardner Oaks, Hidden Glen and Kiwanis parks, as well as undeveloped Remy property on SW 20th Ave., were given attention.

Improvements range from walking trails, sports fields and covered areas for basketball and skateboarding, to dog areas, picnic tables and gazebos.

Fairgrounds Park and the Remy property could be developed in two phases, perhaps back-to-back, Otak officials suggested.

Survey says

Parks Improvement Committee members filled out a survey to determine what are acceptable taxes for creating/improving parks (capital improvements) and maintenance and operations costs.

The majority of the 26 "voters" chose 50 cents per $1,000 of assessed property value for capital improvement and a separate bond for maintenance at another 50 cents per $1,000.

If approved by voters, the cost would be about $150 per year in property taxes for both measures over 20 years based on an average $150,000 Battle Ground home.

About $12.6 million could be raised for parks and maintenance with both bonds.

However, the "wish list" to improve all seven parks is nearly $37 million.

Committee members listed the highest priority improvements as: a covered skateboard park at Fairgrounds, a pavilion, stage and restrooms at Fairgrounds, basketball cover/roof at Kiwanis, practice/play fields at Kiwanis, eight baseball field complex with parking, restrooms and concessions at Remy, flex-use area at Remy, restrooms at Central Park, paved loop trail at Gardner Oaks and additional basketball parks at Kiwanis.

Otak officials said the top 10 list would cost about $14.8 million to implement.

Public input from meet-and-greets, work sessions and open houses garnered the following top 10 list from the community:

An eight baseball field complex with parking at Remy, flex-use area at Remy, soccer fields with parking at Remy, covered skateboard park at Fairgrounds, practice play fields at Kiwanis, restroom improvements at Kiwanis, children's play area at Fairgrounds, stream beautification at Hidden Glen, children's play area at Gardner Oaks and stream beautification at Central Park for a total of $17.5 million.

"Fairly realistic"

Roberts said the cost of the community's priorities are "fairly realistic" financially to the city.

"About $15-$20 million is feasible to voters," she said. "It's fairly realistic."

Roberts suggested the city could fill the $7-$12 million gap with loans, public/private partnerships, grants and user fees.

City manager Eric Holmes said he would also look into the possibility of creating a parks district with Clark County for regional facilities.

"That would spread [costs] out over more people in the region," he said, "rather than just Battle Ground residents."

Holmes said money raised would go into a parks facilities plan similar to park impact fees if County officials approve.

Council member Alex Reinhold expressed concern about charging user fees with so many people unemployed, but agreed it isn't fair for Battle Ground citizens to pay for the entire cost while non-residents use the facilities.

Timing is everything

When council members first considered putting a parks bond on the ballot last year, the target date was for the fall election this year.

The process took longer than expected, so a spring 2004 ballot was considered.

However, council members balked at seeking spring approval when they learned the school district may put a school bond up for voter approval at that time.

"If the school is asking for a bond, I'd hate to see two groups come and ask voters for dollars," said mayor John Idsinga.

Council member Lisa Walters agreed, but said this is not the time to drag feet.

"We need to set a target date for election," she said. "Then 30 days before set a huge push where we all knock on 20 doors every day."

City staff will bring three options for council members to choose and a "next steps" plan for consideration at the Mon., Oct. 20 council meeting, 7 p.m., city hall, second floor, 109 SW 1st St.

BURGLARS TARGET THREE BATTLE GROUND STORES

Heidi Wallenborn, news director

Brooke Nielsen, owner of Kidz Cloz in Old Town Battle Ground, was noticeably angry after her store was burglarized.

"It rattles my cage," she said. "What happened to our small town atmosphere?"

One or more thieves broke the lock off the front door with vice grips at 604 E Main St. and stole $100 cash out of the cash register sometime after closing Oct. 3, and before 4 a.m. Oct. 4, she said.

City police officer Jason Perdue spotted the open door during a block check 4 a.m. Oct. 4 and called Nielsen at home.

"I went right down," she said. "I thought maybe I had left the door unlocked until I saw the money in the till gone."

When she tried to lock the door upon leaving, the lock cylinder fell into her hand, she said.

The envelopes containing the cash stolen were dusted for fingerprints, Nielsen said.

Although her alarm system was not functioning at the time, it is now, she said.

Down the street

A Clear Choice chiropractic clinic at 21 W Main St. was also broken into Oct. 3 or 4.

The store is closed Saturdays, so the owners, Dan and Abby Thompson, didn't go the office until about 10 p.m. Oct. 4 to drop off mail after a night out with their three young boys.

The cylinder lock was gone, also removed with vice grips. Thieves took $25 from the cash box. However, they left customer checks and Abby's personal checkbook.

But the burglars did take about $3,000 in tools, she said.

"They left everything that wasn't a Craftsman," Abby Thompson said. "Power tools, ratchet sets and stuff like that."

The couple noticed other odd things after the break-in, she said.

The burglars bypassed paintball guns in storage, expensive computer equipment and chiropractic instruments.

Someone even took her husband's Bible off a shelf of books and left it open on the table.

"I hope they saw the 10 Commandments," Thompson quipped.

The thieves also tried to use a crowbar to pry open a door in the clinic that gives access to an upstairs game store. The molding around the door is shattered, but the door intact.

When officer Perdue arrived after Thompson's call, he noticed the burglars went to the utility box and switched off all outside and inside lights, she said.

In addition to the loss, the Thompsons had the expense of re-keying inside locks because the master cylinder is missing, installing a new theft-proof lock and alarm system, and fixing the splintered door molding.

Is Thompson angry too?

"No," she said. "I was scared at first, and we had the children with us. We didn't know if someone was still inside and my 5-year-old was crying."

"But now I feel more aware," she added. "We have a plan of action so this won't happen again."

One try failed

A burglary attempt was also made Oct. 4 at Battle Ground Lock and Key, 407 W Main St., not far from the police department at SW 1st St.

Attempts to gain entry with a crowbar were unsuccessful.

According to Lt. Roy Butler, there are no suspects, no leads or clues in any of the cases. Information has been forwarded to Det. Mike Molzahn for investigation.

Although law enforcement terms Nielsen's and the Thompson's losses as "minimal," Nielsen sees it differently.

"I have a consignment store," she said. "It will take $400 worth of business to replace what I lost."

Nielsen spent money to fix her alarm system and put in a different lock that can't be removed, in addition to the $100 taken.

"I feel my privacy has been invaded," she said. "Hopefully someone will come forward that saw something."

To report information, contact Molzahn at 342-5100.

Marcus Brotherton, staff reporter

A difference in campaign styles dominated an Oct. 6 candidate's forum for open seats on the Battle Ground School Board.

Three citizens are vying for two seats. Incumbent Sam Kim is running unopposed for position 4. Newcomer Leslie Jones is battling incumbent Karen Lehman for position 2.

All three participated in the forum.

Jones, who filed and then dropped a formal complaint against District officials in fall 2002 for allowing an alleged hostile educational environment to occur at her daughter's school, appeared to theme her campaign around attacking current administration practices.

At the forum, Jones accused District officials of providing an unsafe environment for students, ignoring sexual harassment laws, having conflicts of interest in upper-level contract negotiations, lacking diversity of Board-level opinion, being tight-lipped on communications issues, and mismanaging a variety of funds including spending too much on leased space for one of the District's alternative education sites.

"Moving forward can't happen until there is honesty and openness between the District and the public," Jones said.

Lehman, a Camas School District special education teacher and four-year Battle Ground Board member, based her campaign on continuity.

Lehman endorsed the interest-based negotiation process presently used District-wide, advocated refined curriculum alignments, and promoted strengthening administrative ties to the community.

"We have moved from a level of no trust and little parent involvement to a much higher level of trust with more parent involvement in every school and area of the District," Lehman said.

Kim, a Board member for the past eight years who helped fund Lehman's campaign four years ago, themed his comments around progress made from the former administration in the late 1990s.

Kim advocated retaining the structure of the current Board, which he called "diverse but harmonious." He advocated increased academic achievement and balancing community interests which sometimes run contrary to one another.

"Foremost on everyone's agenda should be to provide our children with the best possible education," Kim said. "Eight years ago we were in the paper every other week. We were a laughingstock. This is nothing we want to go back to. The District has made tremendous progress since then."

Tight forum structure provided

The candidate's forum was co-sponsored by the Friends of the Battle Ground Community Library and the library staff. Friend's current president Alex Mintz opened the meeting. Friends' past president Karen Williams moderated the event.

Candidates were kept to a strictly-timed structure of offering opening remarks, answering 12 questions to which they had previous access, rebutting opponents' opinions, and offering closing remarks. Citizens also submitted written questions in one portion of the evening. About 35 people attended the event.

Audience member Neal Blomquist said he appreciated the efforts of the co-sponsors in organizing the event but was concerned the forum created an unfair platform against Jones because Kim and Lehman agreed on most points.

"I like balanced information," Blomquist said, "This was out of balance. Sam [Kim] doesn't have an opponent--why was he here?"

Audience member Stephen Brown, however, praised the forum's structure.

"I didn't see one candidate emerge overall," Brown said. "I liked how the night was set up and thought it was fair."

Issues discussion

One of the few areas all candidates agreed n was the need to alleviate overcrowding and congestion within the District.

Lehman and Kim advocated curtailing the increasing number of portables placed at school sites by passing a bond as soon as possible to build new facilities.

Jones suggested District officials and the public engage in forums to discuss options such as block and year-round scheduling until new facilities can be built.

One area of contention was how the District handles the formation of each year's budget.

This year, two public meetings were held to discuss budget drafts prior to Board approval.

Public attendance at each meeting was sparse. Opportunity was given for public comment and questions, but not decisionmaking.

Lehman said the current method of delegating budget preparations to District staff members assistant superintendent Lynn Hicks and business manager Mary Beth Lynn, a former state auditor, is the best course.

"It is not the Board's place to look over their shoulders and dictate how they put things together," Lehman said. "Our job is to look over the final drafts of the proposed documents, ask questions, and in the end, approve or disapprove what has been proposed. We do not micromanage."

Jones said the public is the ultimate stakeholder in how District funds are spent and should be included in the budget creation process as much as possible.

"Yes, I am critical of the way this Board makes [budgeting] decisions," Jones said. "I gave our Board ample opportunity to admit that the constituent is left out of the process and they refused to admit as much. Whether four or 400 people show up [to a public forum to discuss the budget], it's [the District's] duty to make the budget process as open as possible."

Who will win the election?

What did people in attendance think of answers given at the forum?

Carol Bloomquist said she supported Jones wholeheartedly.

"Jones has an ability to be forthcoming with information, put facts out there, and bring forth rumors that were flying and put them in front of people where they should be," Bloomquist said.

Sue Cranke said she supported Lehman.

"Karen is the stronger opponent," Cranke said. "The structure of the Board right now is a good structure. I feel Leslie is running for her own agenda. I don't know if she would work for a common goal. I don't see where her methods are productive."

Dick Leeuwenburg said despite divergent opinions, the evening took on "a remarkably civilized tone."

"It makes you proud to be in Battle Ground," Leeuwenburg said. "Between Jones and Lehman? That's a tough call--it's a shame more people weren't here."

STATE AGREES TO BUILD 219TH ST. INTERCHANGE

Open house set in BG Tues., Oct. 21

Heidi Wallenborn, news director

After several years discussion, Battle Ground residents may see a direct access from NE 219th St. to I-5 before the end of the decade.

State Department of Transportation officials are leading the effort to design and build the interchange, with completion set for 2009.

An open house and scoping comment period to introduce project goals, conceptual alternatives, environmental assessment and design process will be held Tues., Oct. 21, 6-8 p.m., at the Chamber of Commerce building, 912 E Main St., Battle Ground.

State officials say the decision to create an intersection was made to improve travel and safety in the I-5 corridor.

"In a nutshell, with more people and more cars, we have more congestion," said Don Wagner, Department of Transportation administrator for southwest Washington. "This is an important step toward improving mobility along the I-5 corridor."

The intersection will ease congestion north and southbound on I-5, improve safety along NE 10th Ave. by reducing traffic at several locations, and improve access to Battle Ground, Department officials say.

The interchange will likely be developed near the Gee Creek rest area. The estimated cost is $34.7 million for project design, right-of-way acquisition and construction, paid for from the state Legislative Transportation Package.

The plan shows access to I-5 from the east side only, connecting the interstate freeway with SR-502, both state-owned roadways.

Western access is not planned as yet, said Evan Dust, long range transportation planner for Clark County.

Federal approval was given because the project fits into the County's adopted land use plan by connecting to the state highway system, Dust said.

No western extension is indicated in the county's current long-range plan. However County staff will examine the issue as the plan is reviewed every biennium, Dust said.

"There may west access at some future date," Dust said. "It's just not in the plan now."

Long time coming

Battle Groun city council member Bill Ganley said "a lot of hard work" went into getting the project on the books and moving forward.

"It was a long process showing the future needs of not only Battle Ground, but north Clark County," Ganley said, who also serves on the Regional Transportation Council and is chair of the state Transportation Improvement Board.

"[The council] has gone to Washington, D.C. and Olympia, talked with state legislators, Sen. Patty Murray and congressman Brian Baird to explain the needs of our community," Ganley said. "People said it couldn't be done. I think this is one of the biggest accomplishments of the city council since the change of government in 1997."

City officials also expect an economic boon.

"I've always said transportation is the key to economic development," said mayor John Idsinga. "This will open it up for us."

Idsinga said he has worked since 1997 to pull the project through. He has served on an I-5 trade corridor study and on a steering committee from Clark County working with Portland Metro.

"I lobbied for the interchange and to protect our rights to it," Idsinga said. "I'm glad it's coming together."

Ganley said the city is the only one in the county that is not tied to a major highway.

"This ties us into the major trade corridor between Mexico and Canada," he said. "Hopefully it will attract new technology companies."

The interchange will also directly benefit Battle Ground by creating a good tax base for schools, parks and public safety, he said.

Idsinga agreed, but is still wary funding could shift out from under the project.

"We'll stay in tune with the legislature to see it comes to fruition," he said.

The project is in the environmental assessment stage, said state officials, which is determining ramp locations and routes for the connection to I-5. The work also includes studies of impacts on the environment and how to lessen them, and how to gain regulatory approvals.

Open houses, mailers and public notices will keep citizens abreast of developments, said state officials. Design alternatives may be ready before the end of this year for citizen perusal.

For more information about the project or the open house, contact Chuck Ruhsenberger, 759-1310 or by e-mail i5sr502@wsdot.was.gov or the website at www.wsdot.wa.gov/projects/SR502_Interchange/

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 then 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 where 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.

PET LICENSE FEES INCREASE

Michele Bloomquist, staff reporter

Beginning Nov. 1, it will cost $4 more to license an altered cat or dog in Clark County, the county commissioners decided last week.

The increase is the first in 10 years, said Tim Jennings, County animal protection and control manager.

New fees will be $16 to license a spayed or neutered dog and $10 for a spayed or neutered cat.

Fees for licensing fertile animals will remain at $40 for dogs and $20 for cats.

The higher fees to license unaltered animals is meant to encourage owners to schedule an operation before the animals reaches six months old and must be licensed, said Jennings.

Proof of a rabies vaccine is required at the time a pet is licensed, he said.

Although pets do not need to be licensed before six months old, pets older than eight weeks must be registered until the six month mark. Registration is free.

Increased fees bring pet licensing rates in line with other counties, Jennings said.

Of animal control's $2 million budget in 2003-2004, about 73 percent comes from licensing fees, said Jennings.

The remaining 27 percent comes from the County's general fund.

"Licensing fees are the main support for animal control services," he said.

With more than 23,000 pets licensed in Clark County each year, the increase is expected to raise an additional $68,000 by the end of 2004.

The money will be used to pay the department's 11 employees and for responses to the 26,000 calls to the department per year.

The funds also pay for services ranging from returning a lost pet to their owner, responding to a barking dog complaint and animal cruelty investigations.

Department staff also respond to calls regarding threatening or loose animals and the removal of dead animals from the road for Public Works, Jennings said.

Licensed pets have a far greater chance of being reunited with owners if lost because an identification tag worn in their collars allows animal control to locate the owner, he said.

Last year some 6,000 cats were taken to the animal shelter and only 137 redeemed by their owners, he said.

"Unfortunately without a license there's no way for us to notify people," Jennings said.

Licensed pets found injured are also provided with emergency veterinary care, he said.

If a licensed pet roaming free is taken to the Humane Society for Southwest Washington shelter, owners have five days to claim the animal before it is put down or put up for adoption, compared to three days for unlicensed animals, Jennings said.

Programs are available to help seniors and low-income pet owners pay licensing fees, Jennings said. Help with spay and neutering costs is also available.

The fee increase is part of an overall review of animal control policies which occurs every five years.

For more information about pet licensing call 397-2489. To report an animal-related complaint, call 397-2488.

Michele Bloomquist, staff reporter

When it comes to buildings, Woodland School District officials are asking the question, "where do we go from here?"

The District is facing what superintendent Bill Hundley calls "very significant challenges with space and facilities."

Hundley said the school board and staff want to hear from the community how they would like to see facility issues handled.

District officials would like to schedule meetings with small groups to discuss the options during October and November.

Anyone living in the greater Woodland area is encouraged to get involved, Hundley said.

Sessions can be scheduled any day of the week and will take from one to one and one- half hours, he said.

To arrange a session, call the District office at (360) 225-9451.

YACOLT CLEANS HOUSE

Updated ordinance helps clear out junk

Some 25 homes in Yacolt are looking spiffier these days because of a revised nuisance ordinance.

Town officials revised the ordinance in 1999 to get some of Yacolt's so-called "clutter bugs" to clean up their yards, said town clerk Brenda Finnegan.

So far, it's working.

Of 25 property owners notified of violations, all but five cleaned up their yards before the matter went to court, she said.

The process begins when a complaint is filed by a citizen or neighbor about a specific property, she said.

Most complaints involve junk cars sitting in plain view, excess debris and clutter that presents a fire hazard, or garbage that attracts rats.

"Basically it's things that are no longer usable but have accumulated around the property," Finnegan said. "Unfortunately it's a constant problem and many are repeat offenders."

If a drive-by confirms the complaint is valid, city officials mail a letter outlining violations. The letter also asks the property owner to contact town officials and work out a timeline for clean-up.

If the resident does not reply, an official notice of violation is mailed, said Finnegan.

The notice explains that a hearing will be scheduled and penalties will begin to accrue if the property is not cleaned up.

If the property is rented, notice goes to both tenant and property owner.

If the property is still not cleaned up, the matter goes before a hearings examiner and a decision is mailed to the resident, Finnegan said.

The resident is given one last chance to clean up their property.

If it doesn't happen, town officials take the matter to court and obtain a warrant to forcibly clean up the property.

If that happens, the resident is held responsible for court costs of $2,000-$3,000, and clean-up, about $780, she said. Only once has it had to go that far, said Finnegan.

"Most people finally decide they don't want us coming on their place," she said. "They'd rather do it themselves."

Public works supervisor Paul Tester, two staff members and a crew from Larch Mountain arrived at a home Aug. 5 with a dumpster and backhoe.

They removed 20 yards of household garbage, 20 yards of scrap wood and burnables, and towed two junk vehicles, Tester said.

Clean-up took about five and one-half hours.

"We'd much rather the landowner do the clean-up," he said.

Tester said those who have cleaned up their yards haven't let junk reaccumulate so far.

"It's definitely not the best part of our job," he said of telling people their yard is a mess. "But sometimes it has to be done."

Finnegan said town officials plan to continue the clean sweep as needs arise.

Complaints about a Yacolt property in violation, which can be made anonymously, should be directed to town hall, 686-3853.

FAIR ASSOCIATION TO BUILD NEW EXPO HALL

Michele Bloomquist, staff reporter

Some 10 existing buildings on the northeast side of the Clark County Fairgrounds will soon be demolished to make way for a new 100,000 square foot exposition building, said Fairground officials.

"Although this may have appeared to happen quickly, the process has been in place for over nine years," said executive director Tom Musser.

Now that the amphitheater project is completed, the plan to use the money it generates to pay for fairgrounds upgrades are being put into place, he said.

"We've finally arrived at that point," Musser said.

Amphitheater lease proceeds will be used to pay back a $12-$14 million bond used to pay for constructing the building, officials said.

The new hall will allow Fairgrounds officials to attract consumer shows that will in turn benefit area residents and businesses, he said.

Because the new building will not be complete until January 2005, temporary quarters will be set up to accommodate Fair events formerly housed in the demolished buildings.

"The Fair Association has already assembled a transition team to review and devise a plan while the final touches are put on the new hall," Musser said.

Construction is expected to begin in November, Musser said.

NEWS

NURSING DIRECTOR GETS GLIMPSE OF MEDICINE IN CHINA

Michele Bloomquist

staff reporter

A recent trip to China was an eye-opening experience for Clark College nursing program director Shelly Quint.

For two weeks in September, Quint, a Battle Ground resident, and nine other nurses toured medical facilities in three Chinese provinces as representatives of the People to People ambassador program created by president Eisenhower.

Exchanging information was the goal, said Quint, age??.

"They learned a lot from us and we learned a lot from them," Quint said of the Chinese administrators, doctors and nurses the group met.

"Everywhere we went, we were treated as professionals," she added.

The group were among the first Westerners to enter the country after the World Health Organization declared an outbreak of the Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS) virus was contained, she said.

The visit was originally planned for March, but was rescheduled because of the outbreak, she said.

Chinese medical professionals, many of whom left families behind to work under quarantine to treat SARS patients, were hailed as heros, Quint said.

"In Beijing we saw billboards and posters with images of doctors and nurses," she said. "When I asked, I was told they translated, `Beijing loves you and thanks you for your bravery.'"

Facilities the group toured are in the process of becoming modernized. It was not uncommon to see aging equipment alongside high tech machines.

Beijing and other large cities benefit most from medical upgrades, Quint said.

"They're moving forward rapidly, but still have a ways to go," said Quint. "They're transitioning from old to new overnight."

Equipment taken for granted in the United States, such as adjustable hospital beds and intravenous monitors that allow patients to administer their own pain medication, are non-existent, she said.

In a surgical ward that Quint visited, as many as 10 patients per room would recover on military-style cots with coat racks holding up bags of intravenous fluids.

Cleanliness is another focus area.

In Chinese facilities, nurses are still responsible for tasks such as mopping floors and handling garbage.

Rural areas continue to struggle with a lack of resources and trained medical professionals, Quint said.

"Rural areas are the lowest on the totem pole when it comes to health care," she said. "The seriously ill have to be sent to cities."

In one remote village, Quint and others were only the second Westerners to have visited, she said.

The entire village greeted them, including 136 children lined up single-file to sing and present the group with bouquets of flowers, she said.

Chinese officials were especially interested in hearing more about the role of nurse practitioners in the United States, she said.

The Chinese system currently has no such equivalent, she said.

"Adding nurse practitioners could really help improve health care in China," she said, "especially in rural areas."

China also lacks outpatient clinics, she said. Both inpatient and outpatient care is provided at hospitals.

It is not uncommon for patients needing outpatient care to line up outside the hospital for hours, she said.

Quint and others also toured a traditional Chinese medicine facility.

"That was fascinating, especially the pharmacy," she said. "There were bins of every herb imaginable."

Once out of favor, techniques from traditional Chinese medicine are now blended with Western-style medicine with good results, Quint said.

China has also made great strides in reducing infant mortality with required prenatal visits and deliveries in hospitals, Quint said.

The group also visited China's only hospice center, a new concept in China. In most cases, the dying are cared for at home.

Despite back-to-back meetings, the group did get to tour some famous attractions including the Great Wall, the Imperial Palace, a silk factory and a panda bear breeding facility.

Quint believes the journey was a learning experience for both sides. She plans a journey to Tibet or Africa within a few years.

Michele Bloomquist, staff reporter

Although she can't attend meetings regularly, Grace Pittman wouldn't consider canceling her membership at the Woodland Grange.

At 93 years old, Pittman is the oldest member of the state-wide Grange organization.

Pittman was born Jan. 4, 1910 in Homestead, OR where she lived until she was 8 years old.

The family moved to Idaho and California before settling in Oregon's Willamette Valley.

In 1930 she married Daniel Pittman in Newberg, OR.

Two years later, Pittman, her husband and both of their parents purchased land four miles from Amboy.

In 1936, the families decided to join the newly formed Amboy/Green Mountain Grange for practical reasons.

"They were only letting members of the Grange work on it," Pittman recalls. "So my parents and my husband and I joined. Work was so scarce back then."

At the time, Pittman was seven months pregnant with the second of the couple's three daughters.

After World War II started, Pittman's husband took a job welding in the Portland shipyards during the graveyard shift.

Dan Pittman took her and her mother to Grange events, then rushed to meet the bus that took him to work in Portland.

The couple saved money and purchased a dairy farm on the Woodland bottoms in 1946.

"Just in time for the flood of 1948," said Pittman with a bittersweet smile.

Although she remembers the event vividly, Pittman never saw the actual floodwater fill her home to the top of the dining room table during Memorial weekend.

"The National Guard came at 1:30 at night and told us we had 24 hours to get the cattle out," she said. "So we went back to the Amboy property, which my mother still had."

It wouldn't be until August that Pittman returned home.

"Everything was covered in flood scum," she said. "It was terrible."

The couple continued to attend meetings at the Amboy Grange until 1942 when Dan took a job at Schurman Machine where he worked until age 72.

"Then we didn't attend at all," said Pittman. "Between the dairy and the machine shop, Dan was too busy."

In 1960 the couple sold the dairy farm and moved to a home on Durham Ave. where Grace still lives today.

In 1971, Dan retired from Schurman Machine and the couple joined the Woodland Grange.

Pittman remembers it was a busy place with several active members.

She especially enjoyed working with the other women members on the Planter's Days float, making clothing items for fair competitions and listening to guest speakers at the Grange.

Pittman, whose husband passed away in 1987, filled the role of chaplain for the Grange for some 20 years.

"When I turned 90, I told them that was probably long enough," she said.

Pittman gave up driving at the same time, she said.

A few months later, Pittman woke up and could breathe in but not out.

Diagnosed with congestive heart failure, she now takes nine prescription medications daily.

The disease and a bad hip keeps her close to home these days. Her last Grange event was a Christmas party two years ago.

"Outside of my Christian work, my work at the Grange has been very satisfying," she said.

Pittman is thrilled to see the Grange building getting a fresh coat of paint, a process she's been keeping close tabs on.

"I think it's just wonderful," she said of the building's restoration. "It's a big improvement."

Pittman encourages people to join a Grange today for the same reasons she enjoyed it so much--for the sense of community and to find out what's happening in the area.

Pittman has spent several years taking classes about how to write her life story and hopes to publish it one day.

"If I can get all the stories together, that is," she said.

In addition to two living daughters, Pittman has 15 grandchildren, more than 20 great-grandchildren and is expecting her sixth great-great grandchild.

Marcus Brotherton, staff reporter

A Battle Ground High School teacher reunited with a longtime college friend to take a backpacking expedition around the island of Jamaica during summer 2003.

Paula Larwick, who teaches algebra at the high school, and Chris Overholtzer, who