LIBRARY WILL ADD FILTERS TO INTERNET COMPUTERS

The Fort Vancouver Regional Library District will expand its Internet filtering to comply with a new federal law.

The library's board of trustees voted Sept. 20 to comply with the federal Children's Internet Protection Act which became law in 2000 and was declared constitutional by the U.S. Supreme Court in June 2003.

The board's decision to comply will result in basic Internet filtering for all library card holders. Parents of users ages 0-16 will be able to select "enhanced" filtering but cannot override or eliminate the filtering plan.

People ages 17 and above will be able to remove the filter with a one-time, electronic request, a key provision in the Supreme Court's decision on constitutionality.

Under current library policy, which will remain in effect until the new plan is implemented sometime next year, parents of children ages 0-12 can choose to override the library's filtering system and allow unfiltered access.

And under current policy, Internet access is not filtered for ages 13-17, although parents can require filtering.

At present, parents have removed the Internet filter for 34 library users ages 12 and under.

The library system has 27,375 users ages 0-12, and 24,905 users ages 13-17.

Current Internet filtering policy was adopted in August 2003.

Sue Vanlaanen, director of communications for the library district, said the library's existing Internet-management software will accommodate the change in policy, although some technical work will need to be undertaken before the new policy can be implemented.

The new law requires compliance by June 30, 2004.

The new law requires that all library computers, including staff computers, be filtered for legal obscenity, child pornography and material deemed "harmful to minors," for ages 0-16, said Vanlaanen.

Vanlaanen said "basic" filtering blocks sites with sexual depictions and child pornography. "Enhanced" filtering also blocks sites that contain hate and violence material.

Had the library district not complied with the new federal law, it would have faced loss of federal "e-rate" subsidies and Internet-related grants. For the Fort Vancouver Regional Library, that funding currently totals about $1,200.

"The financial impact of compliance for our district is relatively small," said Bruce Ziegman, library district executive director. "The issues about compliance the board considered were primarily philosophical rather than financial."

Ziegman said he recommended compliance with the new law to the library board. The vote was 6-1, with Elena Smith of Klickitat County the lone dissenter.

Ziegman told the board that software filtering systems had improved. He said he did 30 searches of 50 sites each on topics such as teen suicide, sexuality, breast cancer and sexually-transmitted diseases--sites that should not be blocked.

Of the 1,500 sites examined, the library's filter inappropriately blocked only 14 or about one percent of the sites.

"I thought that was pretty good," said Ziegman. "The filters do what they are supposed to do."

Ziegman also told board members that three branches of the federal government supported the new law. "I would be hard-pressed to argue against that," said Ziegman.

Ziegman said the new law struck a fair balance between the rights of adults and the protection of children.

Ziegman said he had received no public response, pro or con, when the library instituted filtering in August.

Ziegman said he is satisfied with the new filtering plan and board decision. "I recommended it," he said.

Candy Morgan, an associate director of the library system, had testified as an individual against the new law during court hearings leading to the June 2003 decision affirming the new law as constitutional.

Students in six area school district scored higher than state averages on a new eighth grade science test, while area tenth graders lagged behind their peers statewide.

Results of the first-ever Washington Assessment of Student Learning for science were announced last week by the state Superintendent of Public Instruction.

Students in the eighth and tenth grades took the test last spring.

Eighth grade students performed better than tenth graders, with more eighth graders achieving the state-mandated standard.

The 2003 Assessment was voluntary for districts and schools, but most students participated. About 95 percent of eighth graders and 81 percent of tenth graders statewide took the tests. The tests will be mandatory in 2004.

In the tests, students responded to multiple choice, short answer and extended response items.

According to Shirley Skidmore, communications director for the Office of the Superintendent of Public Instruction, test items measure how well students have mastered the concepts embedded in state standards in life, earth/space and physical sciences.

The test also measures thinking skills and students' ability to design scientific solutions to human problems.

Area districts excel

Among area school districts, Hockinson, Green Mountain, and La Center had the top eighth grade scores, with La Center and Ridgefield leading among tenth graders.

Hockinson superintendent Barry Gourley attributed his district's success to a hands-on approach to teaching science. "It's very difficult to teach science from a textbook," said Gourley.

Hockinson, La Center and Green Mountain all use science teaching kits available through Educational Service District 112.

In La Center, superintendent Chuck Anderson attributed strong science scores to a new science curriculum developed with the aid of a grant from Hewlett-Packard, and the use of the ESD 112 teaching kits.

Anderson said hands-on science instruction has been enhanced with special training for science teachers in grades 1-6.

Anderson said science is taught in La Center with less emphasis on facts and more on theory.

"This was the very first time the test was given," said Anderson. "We thought our kids would do fine," said Anderson, because of the new curriculum and teaching methods.

Green Mountain superintendent Michael Grubbs credited the good showing to strong support network among students, parents and teachers.

Grubbs said Green Mountain puts a focus on science, with science instructional kits from Educational Service District 112 and visits by the Oregon Museum and Science and Industry.

Grubbs said science is taught with hands-on method, not "dry" textbooks.

Green Mountain had 13 eighth graders last spring.

The ESD 112 science kits are returned after use, refurbished, and used again.

Statewide results

Across the state, a higher percentage of white (40.8 percent) and Asian (39.9) students met the eight grade standards than black (13.7 percent), Hispanic (14 percent) or American Indian (18.3) students.

Eighth grade girls outscored boys 37.4 to 34.4 percent.

Among tenth graders, white students scored higher (36.3 percent) than Asian (32.7 percent), black (9.2 percent) and Hispanic (11.1 percent) students.

Tenth grade boys outscored girls 32.6 to 30.9 percent.

Marcus Brotherton, staff reporter

The Battle Ground School District was recently awarded the largest competitive grant ever recorded in District history.

The District will receive $952,943 over the next three years.

According to Jill Smith, District director of instructional programs, the funds will be used to increase student achievement at Prairie and Battle Ground high schools, specifically to help the two "large schools become more personal to aid learning."

Grant funds will be used to create freshman transition and mentoring programs at Battle Ground. Prairie already has a similar pilot program for freshmen which grant funds will help support.

Emphasis will also be given to establishing early intervention programs so school officials can better communicate with parents about students' grades if help is needed.

Smith said a team of five educators worked for seven months to research and apply for the grant. Team members are Smith, District grants writer Marty Crisp, District director of curriculum and staff development Connie Miller, Battle Ground principal Tim Lexow and Prairie assistant principal Carol Wilmoth.

Called the Smaller Learning Communities Grant, the award comes from the United States Department of Education, Office of Vocational and Adult Learning. The grant must be used to support the planning and implementation of small learning environments in public high schools with more than 1,000 students.

Marcus Brotherton, staff reporter

Longtime community activist, volunteer, banker and soccer referee David Kenny, 65, is set to retire Oct. 31.

Area residents may know Kenny, a Woodland resident, from his current position as vice president at First Independent Bank.

Others may know him from interacting with the Greater Vancouver Chamber of Commerce. Still others may remember him as chief pyrotechnician for the Fourth of July fireworks show in downtown Vancouver, a skill he learned from Jack Dodge, former publisher of The Reflector.

Kenny's involvement with Clark County could be described in one word: committed. His list of community activities over the past six decades reads like entries from a telephone book.

The short list of service is as follows:

** Several activities with St. Philip's Catholic Church, of which he is a member;

** Several committees and boards with the Greater Vancouver Chamber of Commerce including president, chairman, tourism task force member, government affairs committee chairman, and downtown retail promotion committee chairman;

** Several committees with the Vancouver Jaycees;

** Charter member of the Miss Washington Pageant;

** Three terms as Vancouver Parks and Recreation Commission chairman;

** Volunteer for the Senior Nutrition and Activity Program;

** More than a decade of volunteerism for the United Way of Clark County;

** Served on board of directors for the Clark County chapter of the American Heart Association;

** Chairman for the Northwest Kidney Association;

** Active in helping Vietnam War soldiers;

** Ridgefield Chamber of Commerce president;

** Orchards Area Businessmen's Association chapter president;

** Evergreen School District citizens committee chairman;

** Orchards Kiwanis Club member;

** Vancouver Rotary Club member;

** Little league coach. Umpires Association member and national umpire Hall of Fame inductee; and

** Charter member and organizer of the Columbia Soccer Referee's Association. Founding member of the Columbia youth Soccer Association.

What's behind his passion for volunteerism?

"There's a lot of need in any community," Kenny said. "If you don't get involved, you can't have an impact on the end result--a better place to live."

A banker's life

Kenny was born in 1938 at St. Joseph's Hospital in Vancouver. After graduating from Ft. Vancouver High School in 1957, Kenny attended Clark College.

Kenny had no intention of going into banking as a career, he said, but he grew to love it. His major was business administration. A college professor's unusual assignment laid the pathway for his life's work.

Kenny's assignment was to apply for three jobs. He applied for two, one at Chevron, the other as a guard on a construction crew. While driving to Clark College one day he noticed First Independent Bank. He submitted his third application almost as an afterthought, he said.

Kenny began working for First Independent's Fourth Plain office part-time as a teller, bookkeeper and proof machine operator in 1958. He remembers then-bank president Ed Firstenburg promising him that if he wanted to, he could retire from First Independent one day.

"Mr. Firstenburg was in it for the long haul," Kenny said. "The Firstenburg family has always had a strong commitment to community banking and area stability. It's been a great place to work."

Kenny held various positions in the bank over the years including operations officer, various branch manager positions and loan collector.

In 1973 he switched careers for 18 months, learning about zone changes and land development while working for Hart Construction. When interest rates skyrocketed, Kenny had no desire to evict tenants, which was part of the job, so he returned to First Independent Bank.

Kenny was able to use his new knowledge of land-use issues at the bank, becoming assistant vice president of business development. He helped create commercial sites in Dollars Corner, Brush Prairie, Sifton and La Center.

In 1980 he was promoted to vice president for marketing and business development, and in 2000 to vice president of business development and community relations, a position he holds today.

Kenny credits "great support" from his wife and family, "great support" from his employer and fellow employees, and a "great foundation" from church participation as the key to his success over the years.

Why retire now?

"The time is right," Kenny said. "And we've got a lot more volunteer work to do."

Kenny and his wife of 44 years, Pat, have four children, six grandchildren and two great-grandchildren. The Kennys plan to travel after retirement; David will umpire during winter months in Palm Springs, CA, and Phoenix, AZ.

LA CENTER PONDERS SEWER RATES

Bill Myers, staff reporter

Starting next year, La Center citizens will pay more to Clark Public Utilities for sewer services. The question of how much was raised at an Oct. 22 city council meeting.

Utility water services director Doug Quinn said debt service for construction of a new $4.7 million treatment facility, targeted for completion in April 2004, will require a major increase in revenue.

Quinn said increases will be the first since the utility took over city sewer services in 1991.

Sewer revenue comes from hook up charges, currently $2,000 for a single family home, and sewer rates, now at $22.50 monthly.

A comparison of city hook-up charges showed fees ranging from a high in Battle Ground of $5,939 to a low of $1,999 per dwelling unit currently charged in Vancouver.

Hazel Dell charges $3,781 per hook-up, plus a connection fee of $1,973 for a total of $5,754.

Woodland and Ridgefield charge $4,000 or more for dwelling unit hook-ups.

A rate comparison showed utility rates are lower than Battle Ground, Ridgefield and Vancouver.

Battle Ground and Ridgefield rates are at or exceed $35 monthly per dwelling unit. Camas, the only city shown with a lower rate than the utility, charges $21 monthly.

Quinn said higher hook-up charges will result in lower flat or volume rate increases. Depending on higher hook-up fees could be risky to rate payers if projected population growth targets aren't met, said Quinn.

A $2,000 hook-up charge would require a monthly flat rate of $37.67 or a volume rate of $4.71 per 100 cubic feet.

A $3,000 hook-up charge would warrant a $33.51 flat rate. A $4,000 charge would justify a $29.34 flat rate, and a $5,000 hook-up fee would require a $25.17 monthly rate or $3.15 volume charge per 100 cubic feet.

Council members Richard Curtis and Linda Rivard, and mayor Liz Cerveny asked Quinn to show rate models with senior discounts at the Dec. 10 city council meeting.

THEFT FROM SENIOR GETS MAN YEARS

A Clark County Superior Court judge approved an exceptional 7.5 year prison sentence Oct. 15 for a legal guardian who took funds from an aged woman afflicted with dementia.

Orville Michael Rice, 60, 12904 NE Laurin Rd., Vancouver, pleaded guilty June 10, 2003 to theft first degree. He admitted he was a court-appointed guardian who loaned money to himself without court authority.

Court records show that Rice was appointed guardian of his step-mother and her estate in 1993. She reportedly suffered from dementia and was incompetent.

Judge Barbara Johnson said in a Findings of Fact for Exceptional Sentence that Rice diverted more than $200,000 of his step-mother's investments and social security checks between 1999 and June 2002 to his personal use.

Johnson said after Rice failed to pay for his stepmother's care for several months and failed to honor a promissory note, the Parkway North Care Center staff notified state Adult Protective Services' officials in February 2002.

In April 2002, Rice appeared in Superior Court for a review of the guardianship. Johnson said that even after the court terminated his guardianship authority in May 2002, Rice wrote a check to himself on the guardian account and deposited two more of the victim's Social Security checks into his account.

According to court records, a standard sentence for a first offender of first degree theft is 0 to 90 days.

PRAIRIE HORSE TRAINER FACES CHARGES

Bill Myers, staff reporter

Brush Prairie horse trainer Gale Lewis Power, shackled and flanked by deputies, appeared Oct. 21 in Clark County Superior Court on assault and burglary charges.

Power was arrested Oct. 19 by Clark County Sheriff's deputies who used less than lethal "bean bags" to subdue him minutes after a shooting incident in Vancouver.

According to a Sheriff's Office summary, Power, 61, 14700 NE 164th Cir., threatened and assaulted the boyfriend of a 19-year-old female employee in a motorhome near her Vancouver home on NE 99th Cir.

Power allegedly was angry because the employee failed to report for work.

Power reportedly struck the employee's boyfriend on the head with a 45 semi-automatic pistol and fired shots that narrowly missed the boyfriend and another man before deputies arrived.

After discarding the gun, Power reportedly advanced on deputies and asked to be shot.

According to Sheriff's information, Power, a karate expert, kicked one deputy in the leg before he was subdued after several bean bags struck him.

Following treatment at Southwest Washington Medical Center, Power was booked into Clark County jail.

During an interrogation, Power allegedly poked a deputy in the eye and bit him on the chest.

Court records indicate prosecutors intend to charge Power with two counts of first degree burglary, three counts of second degree assault, and two counts of third degree assault.

Power was ordered by judge Roger Bennett to undergo an evaluation at Washington State Hospital.

"Out of character.."

Preliminary inquiries by deputies indicate Power's actions were completely out of character for a respected man who has never been in trouble, said Sheriff's Sgt. Melanie Kenoyer.

Battle Ground horse owner Twila Barbieri said she has known Power several years and always found him to be stable and completely trustworthy.

MAIN STREET OPEN, BUSINESSES HOST CELEBRATION

Heidi Wallenborn, news director

Let the party begin.

"Where East Meets West" is the theme of a weekend-long community Fun Fest set for Fri.-Sat., Oct. 31-Nov. 1, celebrating Battle Ground's grand re-opening with the near completion of the West Main Street Project.

"It is so nice to travel from one end of town to another in five minutes," said Terri Tweedell, Chamber of Commerce executive director. "Our businesses want to let everyone know they're open and no one has to avoid Main St. anymore."

Tweedell expects about 40 entrepreneurs throughout the city to participate in the weekend event. Some businesses may be open Sunday.

Visitors can expect raffles, giveaways, food, games, discount coupons and more from businesses on the east and west sides of the city.

Festivities begin Fri., Oct. 31, 4-6 p.m. with trick-or-treat alley. Participating businesses along east and west Main St. sport a welcoming paper pumpkin in the window where youths ages 12 and under may get treats before heading to the Chamber building at 912 E Main St. for more fun and games.

Big deals on Saturday

One business that has felt the pinch of road construction and slower business is Western Washington Tractor at the far end of the city, 915 E Main St. across from the Chamber building.

"It's been pretty tough," said owner Christopher Schock.

As a result, Schock plans to lure potential customers in with activities for children, raffles for tractors and mowers, a 10 percent off coupon, and a hot dog, chips and pop meal for $1.25.

Watch for billowing barbecue smoke Fri., Oct. 31, 4-6 p.m., to feed the trick-or-treaters, then let them try their hand at apple bobbing, pumpkin bowling, spider tic-tac-toe and hay rides in the big lot next to the tractor building.

The barbecue will start up again noon-2 p.m., Sat., Nov. 1, to feed hungry shoppers and give one more chance to buy raffle tickets for home maintenance equipment.

Pay $20 for a ticket to win a Cub Cadet 1525 tractor (value $2,300), $7 for a ticket to win a Troy-Bilt Super Bronco 6.5 horsepower rototiller (value $800), or $4 for a raffle ticket to win a Troy-Bilt Tuff Cut 230 self-propelled walk behind mower (value $450). Or enter to win all three for $20.

Drawings will be held Saturday at 3 p.m.; winner need not be present to win.

In addition to Western Tractor's activities, discount oil changes will be offered at Battle Ground Quik Lube, free car washes at Elite Collision, an artist gallery reception at Silver Linings Gallery and Gifts, a coloring contest at Riverview Bank, and free crazy bread coupons from Little Caesar's Pizza good through November for customers who show a sales receipt from participating Fall Fest businesses.

Irby's Restaurant will hand out coupons for buy one meal get one free, free desserts and t-shirt giveaways.

The first 50 customers at Cabin Fever will receive a maple leaf coupon good for 10-20 percent off furniture, a free quilt, and other items. The store will also hand out free lattes and hot cider, and give soup demonstrations all day.

"Our main goal is to let everybody know our businesses are open," Tweedel said. "People can shop here without having to go outside our community."

For more information call Tweedell at 687-1510.

Heidi Wallenborn, news director

In an average flu season, 36,000 Americans die and 110,000 are hospitalized because of complications from the flu, according to Dr. Karen Steingart, health officer with the Clark County Health Department.

In Washington, the flu season usually peaks January through March, she said.

Steingart said people who are at high risk to develop serious complications from the flu or are in close contact with those who are at high risk, should get a flu shot every year. The shot provides protection within 10-14 days after being administered.

In preparation for this year's flu season, public health officials and clinics are promoting widespread use of the shot. Sufficient quantities of the vaccine are now available for anyone who needs or wants it, said Steingart.

Steingart recommends flu shots for the following at-risk people:

** Those ages 50 or older;

** Residents of nursing homes and other long-term care facilities that house persons of any age who have long-term illnesses;

** Adults and children six months and older who have chronic heart or lung conditions, including asthma;

** Adults and children six months and older who need regular medical care or have been hospitalized because of metabolic diseases such as diabetes, chronic kidney disease and weakened immune systems;

** Children and teenagers six months to 18 years who are on long-term aspirin therapy and therefore could develop Reyes Syndrome after the flu;

** Women who will be more than three months pregnant during the flu season;

** Doctors, nurses and other employees in hospitals and doctor's offices, including emergency response workers;

** Employees of nursing homes and long-term care facilities who have contact with patients or residents;

** Employees of assisted living and other residences for people in high-risk groups;

** People who provide home care to those in high-risk groups; and

** Household members of people in high-risk groups.

Flu shots are available at several area pharmacies, grocery stores and other locations. Check with individual health care providers for specific dates and times. Following is a list of upcoming opportunities:

The Clark County Health Department, 200 Ft. Vancouver Way, Vancouver, offers shots for adults and children on a walk-in basis Mon.-Fri., 8 a.m.-4 p.m. The second Wednesday of each month shots are available 8 a.m.-1 p.m. Call 397-8401.

The Free Clinic of Southwest Washington offers flu shots for qualified adults and children. Call 313-1390 for information and location.

Southwest Washington Medical Center, 400 NE Mother Joseph Way, Thurs., Oct. 30, 11 a.m.-2 p.m., in the lobby and Wed., Nov. 5, 11 a.m.-2 p.m. at the Physician's Pavilion lobby, 200 NE Mother Joseph Way. Call 256-2000.

Hi-School Pharmacies: Wed., Oct. 29, 10 a.m.-4 p.m., Orchards; Fri., Oct. 31, 10 a.m.-4 p.m., Hazel Dell; Wed., Nov. 5, 1-7 p.m., Battle Ground; and Sat., Nov. 15, 10 a.m.-4 p.m., Salmon Creek.

Westfield Shoppingtown Vancouver offers flu shots for those ages 18 and over every Friday, 2-8 p.m., and Sat.-Sun., 11 a.m.-5 p.m. at the upper level near JC Penney through Sun., Nov. 23. Williams Medical Group will administer shots and accept Medicare. Flu shots are $20 each, pneumonia or tetanus are $35 each. Call 892-6255.

RESIDENTS SWARM TO OPEN HOUSE ON INTERCHANGE

Heidi Wallenborn, news director

Duluth resident Vernon James ran his finger along a yellow line on a map that showed where a new freeway interchange system may go.

Then James tapped his finger on his property which sits on the west side of NW 10th Ave., just south of NE 219th St., right next to the yellow line.

"One of the plans has this road going through the top part of my property," he said, tracing the route with a fingertip.

James was one of about 70 people who wandered into a two-hour open house Oct. 21 hosted by the state Department of Transportation.

Inside were maps set up on tripods and laid out on tables, showing eight conceptual plans for creating an interchange system off I-5 to NE 219th St. and into Battle Ground.

The open house was the first of several. This one focused on environmental impacts, said Chuck Green, a project engineer with Parsons Brinkerhoff.

"We will hear their concerns, gather ideas and ask if people have any other interchange ideas," Green said, directing people to the first tripod and answering questions. "Land acquisition will maybe start next year sometime."

State legislative representative Tom Mielke attended the event.

"I started work on pushing this project through when I was elected eight years ago," he said. "I came into the legislature asking why this project was not done."

Mielke said he was appalled that the interchange was not on the state's transportation or comprehensive plans and worked hard to get it on the table.

Mielke said he faced several delays and setbacks, "hammered" on transportation officials and Clark County commissioners, and lobbied to have a planned cell tower moved 150 feet so it wouldn't be in the way of road construction.

However, last year Mielke voted "no" on a state transportation project list that included the 219th St. interchange, and "no" on the nickel gas tax to fund those road projects.

The reason, he said, is that rather than give transportation agencies "the nickel" they wanted, Mielke would rather see accountability for each penny spent.

"We wanted five for five," he said. "Five reforms for each nickel we gave them."

The proposal was defeated, but Mielke said he will try again next year.

"We wanted the Department of Transportation to make reforms such as in prevailing wage jobs," Mielke said.

"I voted `no' on both because to vote `yes' for the funding [project] list and not for the funding seemed hypocritical to me," he added.

Nickels at work

The estimated cost of construction is $34.7 million for project design, right-of-way acquisition and construction, paid for from the state Legislative Transportation Package funded from the new five cent gas.

The project is slated for completion in 2009.

Although Miekle is happy the project is going through, he's not happy about the nickels that fund it.

"It will all be spent in six to seven years," he said. "We won't even get 10 years of construction out of it, but we'll be paying for it for 25-30 years. It's living on a credit card approach. Our children will be burned by the nickle."

"What I'm looking at is not only do we build this now, we need to maintain it," he added. "I don't take for granted this [interchange] will happen. I'll hold [Department of Transportation] accountable and will look at the process every month, see if they can't go at a faster pace."

Meanwhile, Vernon James is looking at all the plans that may affect his property.

"I have 15 acres and just deeded the back five to my son so he could build a house," James said. "According to that plan over there, the road cuts right through what I gave him. Yeah, I'm concerned."

James also pointed out a swath of land west of his that belongs to his neighbors the Mumfords.

"That plan affects them more than me," he said. "It cuts right through the middle."

Keith Pfiefer owns nearly 6 acres in the middle of the area being considered on each plan. The cell tower that Mielke lobbied to move is on his property in direct line of road construction on at least one map.

"They moved the cell tower to accommodate the alignment," Pfiefer said, shaking his head and chuckling. "Now they have the road going through on this one."

However, Pfiefer's main concern is right-of-way purchases, he said.

"I know they'll want some right-of-way," he said. "I'd just like to have some land left."

Open houses, mailers and public notices will keep citizens abreast of developments, said state officials.

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

TWO SHORT-LINES VIE FOR COUNTY TRACK LEASE

Spirit of Washington Dinner Train eyes 33-mile jaunt

Heidi Wallenborn, news director

A nationwide invitation to short-line railroad operators resulted in two proposals to lease the Clark County-owned Lewis and Clark Railroad for its entire 33 miles.

Lewis and Clark Railway Company currently leases the entire stretch, but uses the south line for freight, 14 miles from Battle Ground to Vancouver, said Steve Schulte, railroad coordinator for the County. The company's lease expires Jan. 31, 2004. The company did not apply to renew the lease.

The Battle Ground, Yacolt and Chelatchie Prairie Railroad (BYCX), a volunteer organization, leases the north line from Battle Ground to Chelatchie Prairie for passenger excursions.

Currently, rides begin at Yacolt and go to Moulton Falls and Chelatchie Prairie during the summer and some holidays. Their lease also expires Jan. 31, 2004.

Competing for the line

In early September, County commissioners directed planning department staff to send out "request for proposal" letters nationwide, said Schulte. Those letters opened the door for anyone interested in passenger/excursion train options as well.

"In keeping our options open, we didn't want to limit the scope in the first proposal," said Schulte.

More than 400 letters were sent with a deadline to reply by Oct. 10. Several replies came back, Schulte said, and the field was narrowed to 30 entities. About six operators showed up at a pre-proposal meeting which included a tour of the line. By the deadline, only two proposals were on the table along with the BYCX group wanting to renew their passenger service lease.

The BYCX group would like to continue restoring, maintaining and acquiring heritage railway and logging equipment. They would also like to develop an interpretive center and museum complex in Yacolt, said BYCX officials.

Northwest Container Services, Inc. of Portland entered a bid to run freight on the south line and accommodate the BYCX group with their excursion program on the north line, Schulte said.

The Spirit of Washington LLC based in central Washington submitted a combination freight/dinner train proposal. According to Schulte, the company's intention regarding the BYCX is unknown.

According to information on The Spirit of Washington Dinner Train's website, the train is the only year-round dinner train in the northwest.

The train, with restored vintage rail cars, runs a 44-mile, 3 and one-fourth hour round-trip loop from the Renton depot along the east side of Lake Washington over the historic Wilburton Trestle and on to the Columbia Winery in Woodinville.

Passengers are served a three course gourmet meal and enjoy a 45-minute stop at the winery to visit the cellar and sample wines, officials said.

Schulte said concept details in the proposals for the railroad are confidential at this time, but will be discussed during a study session with County commissioners Wed., Nov. 12.

"We want to keep a level playing field," he said.

"They are both very qualified with slightly different concepts," Schulte said. "That makes decisionmaking and ranking harder."

A press release from BYCX president Linc Reed-Nickerson stated Northwest Container "embraced" cooperation with his non-profit group, but the Spirit of Washington "made no provision" for their continued operation.

No intent to sell

Under current lease agreements, the County maintains rights-of-way, drainage ditches, brush removal, railroad crossings and bridges, Schulte said.

Operators maintain tracks, rail and ties.

Current leasee Lewis River Railway Company pays the County $5 per freight car loaded, Schulte said. Over recent years, the total number of cars loaded was about 100, which resulted in about $500 revenue.

The BYCX group pays no money to County coffers, Schulte said. Donations and funds received from train rides go toward operations, maintenance and restoration.

Although the line is not a great money-maker for the County, selling it is not being considered, Schulte said.

"The [commissioners'] views are that it is a long-term asset to the community," Schulte said. "Freight can spur industry, drive economy and be a development tool."

Schulte also said the future holds the possibility of commuter rail service, and an option for walking trail systems, pipelines and telecommunications along the entire corridor.

"To have a rail corridor that runs 33 miles diagonally through the community is very unique," Schulte said. "We don't want to give that up."

As for the proposals on the table, Schulte is hopeful an agreement will end in a "win-win-win" situation.

"We are looking at options to put all three on the line at the same time," he said, such as freight south, BYCX north, and a dinner train the entire length. "We will certainly ask those sorts of questions. We're trying to move it in that direction."

A study session to discuss the proposals will be held Wed., Nov. 12, 9 a.m., sixth floor Public Service Center, 1300 Franklin, Vancouver.

Heidi Wallenborn, news director

"Let's get it going."

Such was the response of Battle Ground city council members to pursue a new Public Safety Center for the police department.

Council members gave the go-ahead to city manager Eric Holmes and staff to proceed with plans to fund the project.

"The idea was to present the concept of a new building facility on land the city already owns, to confirm the path we were on [to build], give a heads up on funding and do a fatal flaw check," Holmes said of the Oct. 20 presentation. "[Council members] said it made sense and to proceed with it."

The Center, which would house police and the municipal court, may be built on nearly two city-owned acres behind the existing station at 505 SW 1st St.

Estimated cost is $2.9 million to build a 14,000 square-foot, two-story facility. Although the site has room for an 18,000 square-foot facility with 57 parking spaces, Holmes said building with the smaller square footage is adequate to meet needs for 40,000 future residents.

"Over time, it can be expanded," Holmes said.

The existing building would likely be remodeled and the sally port removed in order to entirely accommodate Fire District 11 personnel and equipment, which currently uses a portion of the structure.

According to Holmes, there are $500,000 in the 2004 draft budget for a police facility. Other funding could come from the sale of about 5 acres on NW 20th Ave. that was originally purchased for a city center, and selling the old city hall on E Main St. and NE 3rd Ave.

If the proposed 2004 budget is adopted by council members with the facility funding in place, Holmes will recruit an architecht and begin the design process early next year.

Timing is "good"

"The need for additional police space remains whether it's an interim fix or permanent," said Holmes. "The 2004 budget has one more police officer added, but I don't know if we can hire other officers unless we can house them."

The department currently has 19 employees, made up of chief Ron Johnson, a lieutenant, 14 officers and three support staff. Operations take place in 3,441 square feet, which is also used for storage, broom closets, a break room, locker room and four offices.

According to Holmes, there is a "pressing need" for adequate office, interview, holding, storage, conference, training and locker space.

"We can't beat the timing," said council member Bill Ganley. "The city is growing, interest rates are low, it's economical, in the center of the city and we'd be using land the city already owns."

Council member Sandra Barnes asked about using a design created last year when council members considered building a two-building civic center complex on NW 20th Ave.

According to Holmes, the design for the police department portion can't be used, however space needs information and conceptual ideas can, which will save some money.

Once an architecht is hired, the building could be open in about 18 months, Holmes said, which could be summer 2005 if the design process begins in January.

Johnson said he is pleased plans are moving forward.

"It's a pretty brisk timeline," he told council members. "We can't operate as efficiently as we should, but we've lived with this for quite awhile."

"We'll be okay," he added. "We're making some adjustments and improvements where we are."

Heidi Wallenborn, news director

Meyer's Marketplace has a living hope.

After an executive session Oct. 20, Battle Ground city council members passed an interim zoning ordinance to give churches and non-profit organizations the right to occupy commercial land.

A public hearing to discuss and vote on a permanent ordinance change regarding the code and zoning will be held at a council meeting Mon., Dec. 15, 7 p.m., at city hall.

The change was instigated by Living Hope Church parishioners who flocked to a council meeting Oct. 6 led by senior pastor John Bishop, filling the chambers with about 150 people lobbying for the code change.

Previously, the city's code allowed non-profit groups to occupy commercially zoned land, but excluded religious organizations.

To comply with federal law which states land use regulations must treat religious groups on equal terms as other non-profits, "We reversed the moratorium," said mayor John Idsinga. "We will let the church do their thing if they so choose."

Church officials hope to turn the 38,000 square-foot building on the corner of SR-503 and W Main St. into a community center/church aimed toward youths and families. The building has been vacant since late 1999.

The congregation has met at Prairie High School every Sunday for nearly seven years. Attendance ranges from 400-600 people, with about 150 youths.

According to executive pastor Duane Warren, church officials are working on a written sales agreement with owners Bob Oja and Floyd Steen to purchase the building outright by 2008 for about $2.5 million.

Associated Grocers currently has a lease agreement with the owners until 2008. Living Hope will sublease the Marketplace until then and work out a financial transition plan for ownership in five years, Warren said.

The day following the council's decision, Warren said the mood in the church office was "really upbeat."

Next steps are to submit a pre-application packet and get to work bringing the building up to code, Warren said.

Several months ago Idsinga and other council members said they were concerned about letting that property go toward any non-profit group. Noted concerns were losing about $5,000 in property taxes annually, along with potential jobs and sales tax revenue generated by commercial/retail sales.

Council members hoped a company would buy the parcel and revitalize the plaza and building.

"I still believe that corner is a great place for jobs and being revitalized," Idsinga said. "But I also believe everyone should have a church to go to and that the youth of our community will have another place to go in addition to The Bridge and Rocksolid Teen Center."

"[Changing the code] is a win-win for everybody," he added.

Warren said he couldn't wait to face his congregation Sunday.

"We turn seven years old in about two weeks," he said. "I'd like to be able to say we finally have a facility of our own."

BG STEPS UP 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 Otak, Inc. representatives, these are a few examples of community input about what citizens desire within the city limits.

Otak is a firm under contract with the city to conduct open houses, gather citizen information, and put together a working plan, designs and estimated costs for improving Battle Ground parks.

A Park Improvement Committee made up of citizens and a variety of city organizations has been at work with residents forming a plan to present to Park Advisory Board members for approval, with the ultimate goal of getting a parks bond to voters in the spring.

After parks board members give their approval, the package will be sent to city council members for discussion and ultimately end up on an April 27 or May 18 special election ballot.

The goal is to take the final idea to voters, asking them to fund park improvements through a 20-year bond to be added to property taxes.

Otak officials Mandy Roberts and Tom Walsh met with city council members Sept. 29 in a study session 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 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 more 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 top 10 improvements by priority 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.

Council member Alex Reinhold is concerned 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.

If a bond is approved, a final park design would be created, financing arranged and permitting completed so construction could begin as early as August 2004 on park items such as trail systems and weather covers over sport courts, Holmes said.

Construction of more complex portions could begin in spring 2005 or 2006, depending on complexity, phasing and environmental permitting issues, Holmes said.

CANDIDATE FORUM DRAWS OUT DIFFERENCES

Michele Bloomquist, staff reporter

How the city of Woodland can increase revenue, if a city administrator is needed, the fire department's future and traffic woes were a few issues raised at an Oct. 21 city council candidate forum.

The Woodland Chamber of Commerce hosted the forum featuring incumbents Jim Tone and Darryl Maunu and challenger Chris Haughee.

Tone, 50, said he believes the top challenges facing the city include continued fiscal responsibility, settling the issue of building a swimming pool, and moving toward a city administrator-style government.

Tone characterized himself as "someone who's not afraid to ask questions or put people on the spot."

Tone is running unopposed.

Haughee, 29, said he would like to see Woodland abandon an "us versus them," style of government and "find ways we can all agree to move forward."

Haughee is confident he is ready to work with budgets, people who disagree and other complex issues.

"Politics means people working together to prepare for the future and preserve the past," he said.

Maunu, 49, said his past four years on the council have been interesting and challenging, and that he's enjoyed working with city staff.

Topics Maunu has tackled in the past four years include annexations, street improvements, zoning issues and equipment failures, he said.

"The city does work," he said. "It works really well. Woodland is a great community."

Time for a city administrator?

When questioned about taxes, all candidates said they would like to see the city solve money needs without raising taxes.

Tone believes the city should be run like a $10 million-a-year corporation, and a city administrator could help.

With council members working full-time and a part- time mayor, that isn't happening currently, Tone said.

"We need to have someone representing Woodland that can put in 40 hours [per week]," he said.

Haughee agreed. "Things are slipping through the cracks."

When asked how the city would pay for a $100,000 per year administrator, Haughee and Tone said they believe an administrator would pay for him or herself through increased grants and business drawn to the city.

Haughee said the issue would ultimately be up to voters.

"We'd have to make the case," he said.

Maunu said he supported the idea of a city administrator when he was first elected until council workshops looking at pros and cons of such a decision changed his mind.

"We decided it wasn't financially responsible then, and I still believe that's true now," he said.

Maunu also said a salary would be only part of the cost. The city would also have to pay for an election to change forms of government and the costs of recruiting a candidate.

Maunu said he'd rather see budget dollars spent on police and fire department personnel and equipment.

Paying for Fire

The Woodland Fire Department is all volunteer except for the chief and one paid firefighter.

Maunu supports the idea of a paid, part-time fire department, eventually going full- time.

Haughee would like to see the department obtain non-profit status and support itself through grants and other sources, rather than become a paid department.

Tone would like to see the department merge with Cowlitz Fire District 1.

Solving traffic jams

When questioned about Woodland's traffic jams at the I-5 interchanges, Maunu said it is likely to get worse before it gets better because the city will need state and federal help to fix the problem.

"Woodland's not even on their 20-year plan," Maunu said.

Haughee is concerned about taking a "create a crisis so they will act," approach. He would prefer to see Woodland officials develop a plan and sell it to state and other officials to get on the 20-year plan.

Tone said that although the council can lobby for help, what carries more clout is citizen action.

"Our five voices don't mean a lot," he said. "But if a town of 3,500 also gets involved, it helps."

Another council candidate forum is scheduled for Wed., Oct. 29, 6:30 p.m., in the Woodland High School auditorium, 757 Park St.

WOODLAND BUSINESS OWNERS FOIL BURGLARY

Michele Bloomquist, staff reporter

Sometimes everything just comes together.

Such was the case Oct. 10, 8 a.m., when several Woodland business owners put a halt to a burglary in process.

Woodland police arrested William Alfred Weaver III, 24, Vancouver, and charged him with burglary. He is in custody at the Cowlitz County jail with bail set at $20,000.

Dave Wells, owner of Dave's Garage, was waiting with his 13-year-old daughter Krystal for attorney Jana Lovejoy to arrive at her office on Davidson Ave.

Krystal hopes to become a lawyer and planned to job shadow Lovejoy in court that day.

While looking for Lovejoy, Krystal noticed a sliding glass door on the rear upper story of the attorney's office was ajar.

As Krystal mentioned it to her father, Wells heard an employee yell "there's a guy on the roof" and watched a man dart across the city hall annex roof, Wells said.

Wells and an employee ran around the building in pursuit.

Weaver reportedly jumped off the front of the building onto Davidson Ave., nearly at the feet of a stunned Lovejoy who had just arrived.

Wells wrestled Weaver to the ground while Lovejoy yelled "call 9-1-1."

Tom Golick of Woodland's True Value Hardware alerted police to the unfolding scuffle.

Meanwhile Lovejoy, concerned for Wells' safety, urged him to let Weaver go.

When Wells released him, Weaver, now shirtless, reportedly ran again, heading down an alley and across Dunham Ave. between Second and Third streets.

"I don't think he was from around here," said Wells, "because he didn't seem to know where he was running." Several fences blocked Weaver's path, slowing down his escape.

As Wells chased Weaver, Wells' employee Steve Schutt followed in the garage's tow truck and Lovejoy followed her car, horn blaring.

Two men in a white truck saw the pursuit and joined in, said Wells.

"We virtually had him blocked in," Wells said. "He was out of breath from running."

Wells and Schutt reportedly grabbed Weaver's arms and restrained him until officer Jeanne Canepa arrived.

Canepa's report alleges Weaver had been bagging up electronic equipment inside Lovejoy's office before he fled.

Weaver allegedly confessed he had entered the office and was stealing the items.

"While the timing was wrong for him, it couldn't have been better for any of us," said Wells. "It all just came together."

Wells said he fears Lovejoy could have arrived at work and found the burglar still inside, had his daughter not been watching for her.

"I am very thankful nobody was hurt," said Lovejoy. "I want to thank Dave and all of the people who responded."

After the excitement was over, Krystal and Lovejoy proceeded to court as planned.

"I thought it was a good opportunity for Krystal to see the process from the crime to the arrest," Wells said. "We plan to keep tabs on the case."

This was the second occasion in one week that citizens helped Woodland officers catch an alleged criminal, said police chief Grover Laseke.

A few days earlier, residents on Lewis River Rd. intervened when a man reportedly assaulted officer Blayden Wall during a stop regarding driving under the influence, Laseke said.

Michele Bloomquist, staff reporter

A new mobile home code adopted by the Clark County Commissioners Oct. 21 tightened requirements for placing older mobile homes countywide.

The code requires anyone moving or installing a pre-1976 mobile home to bring the dwelling up to current codes and pass an inspection proving the home complies with state Department of Labor and Industries standards.

The new code will apply to any mobile home placed or moved in the county, even on the same property, said Volkman.

The code also applies to travel trailers, folding camping trailers, truck campers, motor homes, and multi-use vehicles used as temporary dwellings.

If the home does not comply with standards, the owner must repair or demolish the unit.

Prior to the change, mobile homes constructed before 1976 were exempt from such requirements, said County attorney Lori Volkman, who drafted the new ordinance.

The ordinance is based upon codes from Pierce, Pacific and Thurston counties, she said.

"Our research indicated Clark County was the only one in the state that hadn't done this yet," she said. "Basically, our mobile home code was just old."

Volkman said concerns about fire and safety prompted the move.

Small windows and narrow hallways in older mobile homes can prove disastrous in a fire, she said. Electrical wiring can also become hazardous over time.

"We've had two fatalities in older mobile homes in the past few years," she said.

Mobile homes already in place will be "grandfathered" in as nonconforming uses and won't have to meet requirements unless moved, said Volkman.

Future mobile homes placed due to hardship will also be exempt from Labor and Industries certification, but will have to comply with state law and County building codes, Volkman said.

Under the code, mobile home owners also need to provide proof that water and sewage disposal systems are available on the property before a permit will be issued.

Mobile home owners who modify, alter or build an addition on an existing home will need to comply with the new code, including a Labor and Industries certification and final inspection.

For more information, contact the Clark County Department of Community Development, 397-2375.

OBITS

BERTHA WILLIAMS

Bertha Johanna (Maul) Williams, 85, died Oct. 21, 2003 in Battle Ground.

Williams was born May 14, 1918 in Snow, SD, and lived in Battle Ground for 66 years.

Williams was a member of the UFKB&S Lodge and Rebekah Lodge. She candled eggs for Evans Egg Farm and was a strawberry field boss for Birds Eye. She enjoyed visiting shut-ins, traveling, clam digging, cross stitching and sewing. She liked collecting owls. She had worked for Bigger & Better Chicken Processing Plant in Battle Ground.

Survivors include widower Donald Williams, at home, sons Larry Williams of Amboy, Ted Williams of Battle Ground and Kenny Williams of Yacolt, sisters Frances Skalbeck of Portland and Elizabeth Brooks of Vancouver, nine grandchildren, 13 great-grandchildren

Committal was at Evergreen Memorial Gardens Cemetery with Layne's Funeral Home, Battle Ground, in charge of arrangements.

RAY GUKEISEN

Raymond Edward Gukeisen, 75, died Oct. 23, 2003 in Vancouver.

Gukeisen was born April 1, 1928 in South Dakota, worked as a truck driver for Swifts & Co., and lived in Clark County for 55 years.

Gukeisen served in the U.S. Army during the Korean Conflict. He was a member of the Bethel Lutheran Church. He was a 50-year member of the Battle Ground Eagles and a member of the American Legion 176.

Survivors include widow Lucille Gukeisen, at home, daughters Cheryl Bellomy, at home, and Donna Gukeisen of Sequim, sister Leona Achilles of Oregon, brothers Leonard Gukeisen of Oregon and Leo Gukeisen and Orley Gukeisen, both of South Dakota, two granddaughters and one great-grandson.

Funeral services will be held Wed., Oct. 29, 2 p.m., at Bethel Lutheran Church, Brush Prairie, with committal at Bethel Lutheran Cemetery. Layne's Funeral Home, Battle Ground, is in charge of arrangements.

ALBERT MAY

Albert "Hap" C. May, 74, died Oct. 21, 2003 in La Center.

May was born March 8, 1929 in Havre, Montana, worked as an operations and maintenance manager in the electrical industry, and lived in Clark County for 37 years.

May had served in the National Guard. He was a member of the Al Kader Shriners, Masonic Lodge, and Clark County Amateur Radio Club. He was a lifetime member of the National Rifle Association. He enjoyed hunting, fishing, ranching and raising cattle. He liked teaching children to fish and taught gun safety to children.

May was preceded in death by a daughter, Lynn Marie May, in 1950. Survivors include widow LaDonna "Donnie" May, at home, daughters Leslie Schwarz and Sandra Brackins, both of Vancouver, son Russell May of Vancouver, sisters Shirley Richards, Hazel Stuart and Verla Harvey, all of Oregon, brother David May of Oregon, five grandchildren and three great-grandchildren.

No services will be held, with Layne's Funeral Home, Battle Ground, in charge of arrangements.

BERNICE MUONIO

Bernice Marie (Naatus) Muonio, 77, died Oct. 23, 2003 in Vancouver.

Muonio was born April 12, 1926 in Gackle, ND, worked as a school teacher, and lived in Clark County for seven years.

Muonio liked watching the Trailblazers, reading, gardening, playing the piano and singing. She enjoyed teaching and taught until she was 70 years old. She loved caring for children. She attended the Fourth Plain Church of the Nazarene.

Muonio was preceded in death by her husband, Frank Muonio, in 1989. Survivors include daughters Arlys Degerman, Julie Muonio and Kathy Muonio, all of California, Faye Jones, Susan Cahill, Cindy Muonio and Carol Robinson, all of Vancouver, sons William Muonio, Andrew Muonio and Robert Muonio, all of California, and Paul Muonio of Colorado, sisters Maxine Benkert of Woodland, Grace Mendel of Oregon, Agnes Geiszler of Bothell and Joan Fish and Devonne Maclaren, both of California, and 14 grandchildren.

Committal was at Elim Cemetery, Brush Prairie, with Layne's Funeral Home, Battle Ground, in charge of arrangements.

MICHAEL HOMOLA

Michael Melvin Homola, 50, died Oct. 24, 2003 in Brush Prairie.

Homola was born Dec. 31, 1952 in Minneapolis, MN, worked as a mason contractor, owned Custom Masonry for 11 years, and lived in Clark County for 37 years.

Homola was a member of the Old Apostolic Lutheran Church. He graduated from Battle Ground High school in 1971. He enjoyed his family and his many Christian friends.

Homola was preceded in death by sisters Carol Homola, in 1963, and Constance Homola in 1952. Survivors include widow Lynn Homola, at home in Brush Prairie, parents Melvin and Verda Homola of Brush Prairie, daughters Michelle Hollett of La Center, Heather Wile of Wyoming, Holly Massie of Vancouver, Kati Tanninen of West Richland, Kacie Ek of Amboy and Kenda Koch, at home, sisters Sandra Lindh of Battle Ground, Beth Korri of Lyle, Janelle Kysar of Amboy, Gretchen Kysar and Doreen Smith, both of Yacolt, and Kathleen Aili of Minnesota, brothers Timothy Homola of Battle Ground, Craig Homola of Brush Prairie and Nels Homola of La Center, 20 grandchildren and many nieces and nephews.

Committal was at Elim Cemetery, Brush Prairie, with Layne's Funeral Home, Battle Ground, in charge of arrangements.

MARY GEIL

Mary Elizabeth (Reece) Geil, 81, died Oct. 24, 2003 in Newberg, OR.

Geil was born April 4, 1922 in Los Angeles, CA, and lived in Battle Ground for several years before moving to Newberg.

Geil attended Washington High School in Portland. She also attended Cascade College. She attended Cherry Grove Friends Church in Battle Ground. She enjoyed knitting, crossword puzzles and reading her Bible. She loved cooking and enjoyed people.

Survivors include widower Earl Geil, at home, daughter Judy Schubert of Mesa, sons Steven Geil of Ridgefield, Daniel Geil of Florida, Joe Geil of Mt. Vernon and David Geil of Connell, sister Barbara Kirk of Oregon, brother Gordon Reece of Portland, 11 grandchildren, 13 great-grandchildren and numerous nieces and nephews.

Memorial services will be held Thurs., Oct. 30, 2 p.m., at Cherry Grove Friends Church, 92nd Ave. and NE 219th St., Battle Ground, with Layne's Funeral Home, Battle Ground, in charge of arrangements.

VICTORIA TOIKKA

Victoria E. Hostikka (Buswell) Toikka, 86, died Oct. 25, 2003 in Brush Prairie.

Toikka was born June 25, 1917 ini Rock Creek, worked as an adult care giver, and lived in Brush Prairie for 40 years, and her entire life in Clark County.

Toikka had operated Dickson's Brush Prairie General Store. She was a life member of the Daughters of the Pioneers. She loved her family, watching golf, reading and tole painting. She enjoyed yard and garden work.

Toikka was preceded in death by her first husband, Theodore Hostikka, in 1966, second husband Eric Toikka in 1990, and sons Richard Hostikka in 1970 and Ted Hostikka in 1998. Survivors include daughters Susan Nelson and Karen Hostikka, both of Battle Ground, and Joanne Oja of Brush Prairie, 12 grandchildren and 17 great-grandchildren.

Graveside services will be held Sat., Nov. 1, 11 a.m., at Brush Prairie Cemetery, located across the street from Prairie High School, with Layne's Funeral Home, Battle Ground, in charge of arrangements.

OBITS:

Earl L. Papenfuse, 79, died Oct. 20, 2003 in Vancouver.

Papenfuse was born Dec. 31, 1923 in Mancoda, Saskatchewan, Canada, and lived in Vancouver for 56 years.

Papenfuse operated Earl's Automotive Service in Hazel Dell for many years. He enjoyed fishing, boating and working in the garden.

Papenfuse was preceded in death by a sister, Eva Bong, in 2001. Survivors include widow Lois Papenfuse of Vancouver, sons Kaare Papenfuse of Battle Ground and Guy Papenfuse and Aaron Papenfuse, both of Vancouver, sisters Nyle Allen, Della Wilen, June Bauer and Vera Walter, all of Vancouver, and Myrtle Waser of Battle Ground, and seven grandchildren.

Memorial Gardens Funeral Chapel, Vancouver, was in charge of arrangements.

JOANNE NYBACK

Joanne Lee Nyback, 69, died Oct. 23, 2003 at home in Vancouver.

Nyback was born Dec. 9, 1933 in Pasco, worked as a medical secretary, and lived in Vancouver for 61 years.

Nyback spent her early childhood in Portland and attended La Center High School. She was a member of the Daughters of the Pioneers of Washington. She was active in the Democratic party, was an avid reader and loved driving her car.

Nyback was preceded in death by her husband, William Nyback, in 2001. Survivors include daughter Debra Nyback Rogers of Vancouver, son Dennis Nyback of New York, sisters Colleen Maier of Amboy and Kathleen Rose of Kennewick, brother Dale Galloway of California, and three grandchildren.

Burial was at Northwood Park Cemetery, with the Vancouver Funeral Chapel, Vancouver, in charge of arrangements.

JIMM GIBBS

Jimm Gibbs, 43, died at home in Woodland Oct. 24, 2003.

Gibbs was born Feb. 11, 1960 in Philadelphia, PA. He moved from La Center to Woodland in 1999 and worked as a clerk in the Woodland post office.

Gibbs was a self-trained artist and made stripped bark furniture. Several of his chairs won blue ribbons at area fairs and festivals. He had two well trained labradors.

Gibbs collected clocks and radios from the 1920s. He also collected magical boxes that were hard to open. He enjoyed jazz music.

Survivors include mother, Barbara Gibbs of California, father, James Albert Gibbs of Pennsylvania, and sister, Lisa Gibbs of California.

Gibbs will be remembered at a come-as-you-are gathering Sat., Nov. 1, 3-7 p.m., at the Woodland Grange, 404 Davidson St., Woodland, with the Neptune Society in charge of arrangements.