ORCUTT CAMPAIGN FINED

State Rep. Ed Orcutt (R-Kalama) has agreed to a penalty of $3,500 for violations of the state Public Disclosure rules.

The Orcutt 2002 campaign failed to deposit some contributions within the required five business days, failed to accurately report all contributions and expenditures, and failed to file special reports of contributions received within 21 days of the 2002 general election.

The state Public Disclosure Commission suspended $1,000 of the fine on the condition that no future violations of disclosure laws occur through the 2006 election cycle.

Orcutt said the reporting errors were discovered in random audit conducted by the Public Disclosure Commission.

Orcutt said he raised bout $140,000 for the 2002 campaign and has $12-14,000 remaining.

The Public Disclosure Commission can be reached at (877) 601-2828, and www.pdc.wa.gov

Orcutt can be reached at (360) 751-2317.

PRESIDENT BUSH THANKS SENATOR BENTON FOR WORK

Heidi Wallenborn, news director

State Senator Don Benton (R-17) was among "a handful" of legislators nationwide who were invited to an exclusive Dec. 16-17 event at the White House to meet president George W. Bush and his senior advisor Karl Rove.

Officials of Americans for Tax Reform issued 75 invitations to legislators and tribal leaders and sponsored the two-day event.

Benton was invited because he introduces resolutions in the state that support the president's initiatives such as a national missile defense system, jobs and economic growth plan, and the elimination of the estate tax, he said.

"[The invitation] was in appreciation for my work on behalf of the American taxpayer," Benton said by cell phone as he left the White House. "The president personally thanked me. This was a very special group."

Bush met with Benton and others for about 20 minutes at the Dec. 16 gathering.

"He spoke one-on-one with us, like it was over a cup of coffee," Benton said. "He was with a very friendly group, so he was able to be informal."

Bush spoke about the recent capture of Saddam Hussein in Iraq and set his sights on Osama Bin Laden next, Benton said.

"The president said, `We'll get him, too,' and that `hiding in caves is hard on old guys,'" Benton said. "He is confident Bin Laden is hiding in a cave somewhere and said if we can find Hussein hiding in a hole in the ground in a country the size of California, it won't be hard to find Bin Laden."

"He really struck a chord with us," Benton said. "The president said that freedom is every individual's gift from God and with it comes peace. Eventually peace will come out of Iraq. He also said that nothing would please him more than peace and freedom in the world, but terrorism calls for a different action because it's a different world now. War is war."

A visit with the president also meant a tour of the White House decorated for Christmas.

"It was beautiful, just beautiful," Benton said. "There were all kinds of trees everywhere. The president pointed out one tree with a lot of [ornaments] at the top and said, `See those way up there? I put them on. But don't tell Laura I said that, because I really didn't.'"

Benton laughed and said, "He is very warm, personable, and has a good sense of humor."

This wasn't the first time the two leaders met.

Benton campaigned with then governor Bush in Washington in 2000 while Benton sought reelection and Bush sought the presidency.

During the latest visit, Bush recognized Benton, saying "My friend, how are you?" Benton said. "He has a very good memory."

Benton handed Bush letters that his two youngest sons had written and asked their dad to present in person.

"He asked if these were from my boys, and I said `yes, Mr. President,' and placed them in his hand," Benton said. "He smiled and told me to `Tell them I got `em.'"

After the meeting, Benton and the others were whisked by bus to the Pentagon for a briefing with officials before attending a first-class dinner at the Decatur House within the White House complex.

Other notables Benton met with were Jim Kelly, White House director of intergovernmental affairs, Ed Gillespie, Republican National Committee chair, Sam Reid, assistant deputy secretary of transportation for the U.S. Department of Transportation, and Mark Racicot, former governor of Montana who is chair of the 2004 Bush-Cheney campaign.

Benton also attended briefings from the Republican Congressional, National and Senatorial committees.

"It was an awesome experience," Benton said. "It's an honor to have a president that commands respect even from his opposition and is honorable with his character and morals in the White House."

What was the agenda for the next day?

"Not anything that compares to today," Benton said.

HEALTH OFFICIALS, RESIDENTS MULL ARSENIC ISSUE

State to conduct feasibility study for water system

Bill Myers, staff reporter

State and Clark County health department officials described arsenic problems and possible solutions Dec. 17 to about 15 homeowners from Hayes and Cedar Creek road areas in northwest Clark County.

County health official Randy Phillips provided a current report of well tests near Hayes and Cedar Creek roads east of Woodland.

Arsenic screening results were obtained from 36 wells in a survey of 132 well owners.

A Health Department map showed 17 of the 36 wells tested under 10 parts per billion (ppb) of arsenic. Three of the 19 wells above 10 ppb had arsenic levels in excess of 500 ppb.

Phillips said 16 well owners outside the study area but along the Hayes and Cedar Creek road corridor were also tested. Three had arsenic readings of 11-30 ppb.

State regional water engineer Mark Toy said deadlines for filing community development block grants this year for a new public water system had expired.

Area residents would not qualify for low-income, U.S. Department of Agriculture rural development grants, but could qualify for loans, Toy said.

Toy said a $35,000 state grant will be used by Clark Public Utilities to fund all or part of a feasibility study to examine costs of installing a public water system in the area. Toy expects a scope of work and estimated cost of the study soon, which will take about three months to complete.

Clark Public Utilities water engineering manager Eric Beck said funding of a system could involve formation of a local utility district that could collect taxes to pay bond debt.

A new system could involve piping water to the area, drilling a new well or finding other water sources, Beck said.

Any system will hinge on how many area residents would participate, said Beck.

Dave Andersen, an area resident one-quarter mile from a cluster of high arsenic wells, said his well produces 85 gallons of high quality water per minute. Andersen said he would be glad to help his neighbors if he could.

Andersen said Beck could conduct flow tests to see if his well could be useful.

Byron Jacobus, owner of Water & Air Works Inc. of Vancouver, said he is searching the marketplace for an effective filtering system.

Citizen concerns

Phillips fielded questions about arsenic. He said bathing in water containing arsenic levels higher than 500 ppb could be risky.

"I'd limit bath time in such water," he said.

Phillips said large animals tend to be tolerant of arsenic, but small pets are not. He said he does not know how eggs might be effected if hens drink arsenic-laden water, or how the poison would effect fish in pens.

Phillips said irrigating with water containing arsenic has little effect on fruit or fruity vegetables such as strawberries and blueberries. There is evidence that high levels of arsenic can accumulate in soils and effect root or leafy vegetables, he said.

ARSENIC TOUCHES LIFESTYLES

Couple describes effects of recent well discovery

Bill Myers, staff reporter

Living with high levels of arsenic in well water can cause lifestyle adjustments.

The arsenic drama in north Clark and south Cowlitz counties entered the lives of Danny and Sue Wilkerson in August.

Owners of a home on 8 acres near Bridge Rd. east of Woodland for the past 10 years, the Wilkersons tested their 500-foot-deep well after learning that high levels of arsenic were found in a neighbor's well.

The Wilkersons were shocked to learn their water contained arsenic levels of 700 parts per billion (ppb), which is 70 times the arsenic safety standard of 10 ppb set by the federal Environmental Protection Agency.

The new standard will be required on all public water systems by 2006.

The Wilkersons described what it means to live with the problem.

The family buys 10-15, 5 gallon bottles of water each month for cooking and drinking.

Sue Wilkerson said their Labrador retriever died two years ago from cancer in its nose.

"The dog we have now drinks bottled water, too," she said.

When three grandchildren visit, they are not allowed to bathe in well water. Clark County health official Randy Phillips said bathing in water containing more than 500 ppb could cause health risks.

The family counts on rain water to fill troughs used by two horses. They worry about potential effects on other livestock and gardens.

In a recent meeting with health officials, Danny Wilkerson demonstrated another concern.

"Why don't you warn everyone about the danger?" he asked. "How many people are allowing their kids to unknowingly drink poison?"

Water & Air Works owner delivers 1,440 bottles

Bill Myers, staff reporter

The owner of a Vancouver water and filtering company donated a Christmas present of 1,440 bottles of water to troops serving in Iraq.

Byron Jacobus, owner of the Water & Air Works Store, delivered the 16-ounce bottles on Dec. 22 to Camp Murray near Tacoma. Each bottle contains a label bearing the word "Freedom."

Jacobus said Vancouver mayor Royce Pollard helped arrange to get the water taken by military air shipment to Iraq.

Jacobus said he donated another 10 cases to troops at Vancouver Barracks.

"It's all about red, white and blue and loving America," said Jacobus, a 1962 Battle Ground High School graduate who was a 6-year reservist with the 104th Army Division in Vancouver.

The Water & Air Works Store is located at 3110 Minnehaha St., Unit 8, Hazel Dell, and can be reached at 696-9287.

Marcus Brotherton, staff reporter

State auditor Brian Sonntag has reviewed a number of concerns about the Battle Ground School District brought by an area resident and concluded the District is conducting business in a legal and competent manner.

Leslie Jones brought the issues to the state's attention prior to her unsuccessful bid for a school board seat in the November general election.

More than one-third of area voters supported Jones in her race against incumbent Karen Lehman.

Jones, a non-practicing attorney, also filed a malicious and sexual harassment complaint against the District in spring 2002 on behalf of her daughter, who has since graduated.

Jones said her communications with the auditor were not politically motivated and unrelated to the complaint filed on behalf of her daughter.

Jones said she brought the concerns as a parent and District patron, and because she "desires to see honesty in the District."

Sonntag answered Jones'concerns in a Dec. 15 letter. Board chair Frederick Striker read a copy of the letter at a Dec. 16 school board meeting.

Jones was not at the meeting and had not yet received the letter. Jones later said the public reading of a letter addressed to her before she had seen it showed poor judgment on behalf of the Board.

Jones plans to file a formal complaint against the state auditor's office for sending a copy of the letter to the District when District officials did not request it.

As to Jones's claims against the District, Sonntag's staff concluded that:

** The District was in compliance with bid requirements in its use of contractors for the Battle Ground High School baseball field project. Jones contended they did not comply;

** The District does not have a conflict of interest by having contracts for architectural services with the spouse of a District principal.

The auditor determined conflict of interest law is not applicable in this case because a principal is not an elected official or a municipal officer;

** No conflict of interest was present when a board member voted to set compensation for teachers while the board member's wife was a District teacher.

The auditor concluded that the board member could vote on a bargaining agreement because the board member was elected after his wife was hired;

** No conflict of interest was present when the District's human resources assistant director was part of contract negotiations with the teacher's union.

Jones' concern was that the assistant director was, in effect, negotiating her own contract/compensation.

The auditor consulted with legal advice and determined no conflict of interest laws were violated;

** Executive sessions on June 12 and 18, 2002 were properly advertised and held for appropriate reasons as required by state law. Jones said they were not; and

** Adequate supporting documentation exists to determine Board members properly approve vouchers.

The state auditor concluded however, that notification faxed to newspapers as required by law for a September 2002 board retreat was 15 minutes short of a 24 hour-notification requirement.

The auditor's office recommended the District monitor compliance with state notification requirements more closely.

Jones called the auditor's report "a sorry piece of propaganda" and "inconsistent with the attorney general's interpretation of the law."

Jones said she has documentation showing inaccuracies in Sonntag's findings and is considering an appeal.

MODEL PLANE GROUP SEEKS HOME IN BG

Heidi Wallenborn, news director

A sandy strip of grass, a place to park vehicles and set up, and wide open sky are all a group of radio controlled airplane hobbyists want.

Al Lewey, spokesperson for The Radio Control Aeromodelers of Clark County, believes Remy Park on SW 20th Ave. in Battle Ground may be just the ticket.

As a result, he asked the city's planning commission members several months ago to consider the group's needs while figuring out what to do with the park, and also permission to use it in the interim.

Planning commission members unanimously decided that an interim use would be fine and forwarded the request to council.

Nick Bowling, president of the Fern Prairie Modelers Club in Washougal, and Lewey asked city council members Dec. 15 for permission to use the undeveloped 80-acre park that is polka-dotted with wetlands and standing water.

The hobbyists propose to use the east end of the park at SR-503 to fly airplanes--away from the residential zone on SW 20th Ave., said Sam Adams, public works director.

The group would like to use the park 10 a.m.-8 p.m., 365 days of the year.

"The caveat to that is the portion we'd like to use is city-owned, but in Clark County's jurisdiction," Adams said. I'm not sure what the County's rules are. But the ball is in our court to even allow it."

Council concerns take flight

Council member Mike Ciraulo is worried about noise bothering nearby property owners and where hobbyists would park, as there is no parking lot and access to the area is limited.

Council member Sandy Barnes is concerned about committing a function of that type when park plans have not yet been approved.

"What will happen to the [proposed] ball fields?" she said. "I don't want to give up space for other needed activities. But I have no problem with interim use since it's not used for anything now."

Council member Alex Reinhold said he has no problem with flying airplanes as long as the neighbors are aware of what's going on. He is also concerned about setting a "precedent."

"I don't want to be thought of as the jerk that threw out the model airplane guys if the park plan comes through and there is no room for [them]," he said.

Council member Bill Ganley wondered what other issues allowing the group to use the park would lead to, such as people running dogs there.

Ganley said he is concerned about noise in that urban area, airplanes going over SR-503 traffic, more residential planned for the area.

Lewey said his group's recreation does not mean a loss of facilities for anyone else.

"We need a runway, parking and mostly need fly space," he said. "There are no changes in plans or activities for the park."

Lewey also said that noise is always an issue, but that if the organization is diligent, most neighbors welcome the hobbyists.

"An interim plan would be good," he told council members. "It would be an opportunity to show what kind of neighbors we can be."

Lewey also said there are decibel limits on airplanes, mufflers on every aircraft and sound dissipates rapidly once aloft.

Bowling agreed, adding that his group has leased an area from the Port of Camas/Washougal and in 20 years have never had a noise complaint. He said the area they use is about the same distance away as the residences on SW 20th Ave.

Bowling also said there was one noise complaint two years ago with the Clark County Radio Control Society at the Fairgrounds, but "that was resolved some time ago."

"About 35-40 percent of the planes now are electric and make very little noise," Bowling said. "They are battery-powered, electric motors and essentially quiet. It can be abused, but with control of activities by a club, it's really not a problem."

Lewey said his group is composed of hobbyists ages 10-92, but mostly older people in their 50s and 60s. He said the club would carry $2.5 million in liability insurance to protect the city.

Although the group is not an official organization, hobbyists hope to be a viable club when they can participate in one area, run a field, train and meet safety and liability issues, Lewey said.

Council member Bill Crego said he is all for the group using the area.

"Our parks are for all in the community, not just youth sports," he said. I don't see anything set specifically for anyone else. My understanding is that they would not fly over games in progress."

"The parks are open to all people," he said. "I don't want to limit [permanent plans] to youth and sports."

City manager Eric Holmes said "it's obvious" that the council has reservations and needs more information. He proposed staff bring back more information early next year.

Heidi Wallenborn, news director

It's not unusual for the Brotherton family of Fargher Lake to head to remote hills looking for a Christmas tree.

Mike Brotherton is a seventh grade teacher at Laurin Middle School, and his wife, Melissa, is a homemaker. It is an outing they enjoy with their children about every other year.

However, this year they came back empty-handed and also without their 1986 Suburban.

The couple and their children, Daniel, 5, Abby, 4, and Ozzie, their Lab/Rottweiler mix dog, drove about 15 miles east of Cougar to get a tree and play in the snow Dec. 13--Melissa's 29th birthday.

It was raining when they left home, so they figured it would be snowing where they were headed, Brotherton said.

It wasn't. The tracks of one other vehicle were on about 6 inches of snow, and cold rain was falling.

About noon, Brotherton turned the heavy Suburban around, misjudged a ditch and slid the front end in, high-centering it on the edge of the road.

The couple tried to get out by digging snow out and putting blocks of wood under the tires, but to no avail.

While mom and dad toiled until dusk and kept an outside fire going for warmth, the children romped in the snow with Ozzie or kept dry in the vehicle.

Brotherton said he's pretty cautious, so the vehicle was packed with about three days worth of food, blankets, axes, first aid and fire making supplies.

"We told the kids we had a surprise for them and we were going to camp overnight," Brotherton said. "We wanted to keep them calm so they would sleep and be rested and we could think straight."

Folding back seats down made the back of the vehicle roomy and somewhat comfortable for all four that night, even with Brotherton's 6-foot 9-inch frame.

But sleep was elusive while about 8 inches of snow fell through the night. The couple knew loved ones were worried.

Melissa's sister and a friend knew the family had gone to get a tree in the back country but weren't sure where. When they didn't show up at a family Christmas dinner at a restaurant in Kelso at 4 p.m., family members went into action.

Dave Brown, Skamania County sheriff and Melissa's cousin, organized a search party which included about 20 family members, deputies and a snowmobile club.

The Brothertons resumed attempts to free the vehicle the next morning. About 1 p.m.--25 hours after getting stuck--two men and a woman on snowmobiles found the family.

"The hardest part was knowing our families' heartache," Brotherton said. "It was upsetting for us. We were fine and calm, but they didn't know that."

The best part, Melissa said, was the confidence their daughter had in them.

"She had total trust in Mike and I," she said. "She kept asking if we'd gotten the car out yet and if we were going to get the tree now. It kept me going."

The family came home, without a tree, vehicle or dog. There wasn't a way to transport Ozzie back, so Mike left a sack of dog food for him until he returned to get the Suburban.

"He was fine," Brotherton said. "He was asleep by the car when we got back Tuesday."

Cousins Larry, Michael and Greg Brown helped Brotherton hand winch the vehicle out of 6 more inches of snowfall. It took about 10 minutes.

As of Dec. 18, the couple still had no Christmas tree, but planned to travel again to get one before Christmas.

This time they went to his parent's house near Battle Ground Lake and cut one out of their yard.

MORATORIUM HALTS LAND DIVISIONS

Board seeks status quo as planning continues

Bill Myers, staff reporter

A two-to-one vote by Clark County commissioners Dec. 16 slammed the brakes on land divisions in rural areas pending land use decisions in a Comprehensive Plan update.

Commissioners Craig Pridemore and Judie Stanton, overriding objections by commissioner Betty Sue Morris, enacted a moratorium on filing land division applications in unincorporated sections of the County outside urban growth areas.

The moratorium was effective Dec. 16 but will not effect completed and vested applications.

Commissioners will hold a public hearing on the development halt within 60 days.

The freeze prevents landowners from subdividing land pending land-use determinations in a planning update process mandated by the state Growth Management Act.

The moratorium was prompted by applications during the planning process for residential development on land targeted for industrial or other job-creating uses, said County planner Patrick Lee.

After the hearing, planner Bob Higbie said six land development applications were received from Meadow Glade area landowners since August 2003. Three applications requested approvals to build residential subdivisions on more than 100 acres in residential zones identified during the planning process as suitable for light industrial or business park zoning.

Higbie said the moratorium will prevent similar applications in the Meadow Glade area that could involve 240 acres and eliminate about 4,400 future jobs.

Pridemore said he was concerned about the Meadow Glade area proposals, and said the moratorium will establish a necessary "status quo" during the plan update process.

"The longer this goes on, we lose more control over projects," said Pridemore.

Morris opposes action

Preceding a vote on the moratorium, Morris asked, "Do we have the authority to tell people they can't use their land because we may have better ideas for the use of it?"

County civil attorney Rich Lowry said the County could enact a moratorium to maintain a "status quo" during the planning process.

In opposing the freeze, Morris said the Meadow Glade area was identified for its development potential at least one year ago by Battle Ground city manager Eric Holmes, "who tried to hurry us along."

Morris said landowners are not at fault and should not be penalized.

Pridemore said the planning process will be more difficult without the moratorium.

Commissioners will revisit map and assess capital facility needs

The commissioners will review Planning Commission land use map recommendations location by location to set a framework for completing a capital facilities analysis during a work session set for Wed., Jan. 14, 10 a.m.

Morris said planning commissioners need to identify more job-producing land.

"I'm open to considering more industrial land in the Battle Ground area," said Pridemore.

Stanton said she is rethinking recent actions by Clark County to take job lands away from Battle Ground. She said it might be better to put more job-producing land in west Battle Ground. More industrial land at Ridgefield might create an imbalance in employment between Battle Ground and Ridgefield, she said.

Pridemore and Stanton, contending that current data is adequate, opposed Morris' urging to revisit planning assumptions and complete a new survey of buildable lands. The commissioners agreed to accept a Planning Commission recommendation to hear 21 (erroneously reported as 84 in a Dec. 17 Reflector story) site specific requests on properties inside existing urban growth areas on the 2004 docket.

The commissioners will apparently not review 79 requests submitted by rural landowners.

Commissioners agreed to include capital facilities work in the planning process. Pridemore said it will likely take six months for final adoption of an updated comprehensive plan.

Building industry reaction

Matt Lewis, spokesman for the Building Industry Association of Clark County, said the moratorium adds to a "planning dysfunction" and denies citizens of their property rights without notice.

Lewis criticized Pridemore and Stanton for not revisiting core assumptions on growth rate, infrastructure deduction, under-utilized land conversion and jobs to population ratio.

"Clark County residents deserve an honest planning process that realistically plans for future growth," said Lewis.

Plan costs reach $2.3 million

In a Dec. 8 letter to commissioners, county administrator Bill Barron said since work began on Jan. 1, 1999, County expenditures for the comprehensive plan update have reached $2.3 million.

Grants were received for $488,419 of the update work.

CREGO HONORED AT LAST COUNCIL MEETING

Heidi Wallenborn, news director

Bill Crego put in his last appearance as a Battle Ground city council member Dec. 15 after seven years of service.

Crego lost his position by about 11 percent to challenger Chris Regan in November's general election. Regan will be sworn into office at a meeting on Mon., Jan. 5.

After general business was conducted Dec. 15, mayor John Idsinga turned the rest of the meeting over to council members and the public who wished to say parting words to Crego.

"I should've prepared a roast," Idsinga said.

"That's what every meeting is," quipped Crego.

Idsinga read aloud a resolution thanking Crego for his years of service to the community. Accolades included helping form the new council/city manager form of government in 1997, overseeing $25 million in city improvements such as roads, parks, water and sewer, and raising the city's profile in the region.

A framed copy of the resolution was handed to Crego along with a mallet in a glass covered wood box to signify his last year served as deputy mayor.

"There have been good and bad times as well as a lot of fun," Idsinga said. "I've enjoyed it, and it's been an honest pleasure to know you as a council member and friend."

Council member Mike Ciraulo said although he hasn't known Crego for very long, he has been taught several things.

"You've been a great servant to the city," Ciraulo said.

Council member Alex Reinhold added his thoughts, saying, "I sat in the audience for many years and listened to you. Whether I agreed or not, I always appreciated that you gave a reason for your opinion. I will miss you and that booming voice."

Council member Sandra Barnes acknowledged that Crego has served the city in a variety of ways and thanked him for his volunteerism.

"You always know where you stand with Bill," she said. "He's not wishy-washy. He has the heart and soul of the city. I think he's been true to the city and himself."

Bill Tucker, a Battle Ground resident and co-chair of the Rose Float committee, also thanked Crego for volunteering time to city events.

Council member Bill Ganley, who was elected in 1993, thanked Crego for leaving his "footprint" in Battle Ground.

"We've had some lively discussions and debates over this changing city," Ganley said. "Remember when we had to increase sewer rates by 47 percent in 1997? Today the ship is in calm waters. Thanks for your legacy."

Crego said his emotions ran pretty high that night.

"These last seven years is something I've really enjoyed," he said, struggling for composure. "It's been a fast and furious seven years and it seems like just yesterday I was elected."

"There have been good times and real bad times," he added. "Change comes for a reason. Now I will find my change, face new challenges in my life. My faith says to look to the future."

"Although I'm off council, I will still be here," he warned, smiling. "I'll be the conscience of the community. Make me proud."

$55 million proposed for two new K-8 schools, land for a new high school near Amboy and more.

Marcus Brotherton, staff reporter

According to Battle Ground School District officials, voters will have a decision to make this spring: keep their schools overcrowded or open their wallets.

School board members accepted a recommendation Dec. 16 to present a $55 million bond to area voters May 18, 2004.

If passed, the state will contribute another $35 million to the projects.

Money will be spent to build two new K-8 schools, purchase land for a future high school near Amboy, replace the lower building at Amboy Middle School, remodel Laurin Middle School, do a site study and remodel of the campus containing Lewisville Middle, Captain Strong Elementary and Chief Umtuch Primary schools, redo the track, roof and auditorium at Prairie High School, and build a new drama addition and renovate the stadium at Battle Ground High School.

If the bond passes, the first K-8 school is expected to open fall 2006, the second will open fall 2007, and work on a new high school will begin after 2012.

School locations were not formalized as part of the bond committee's recommendation. The District will likely build schools on property currently owned or under review, said District spokesperson Kelly Keister.

The District owns property at 199th St. and 72nd Ave. known as "mint fields," and is negotiating to buy land at the north end of NW 20th Ave., known as the Cresap property.

Who proposed what

Over the past three months, a group of area citizens worked to formulate recommendation to take to the board.

Keister, who facilitated the bond committee's meetings, said it was one of the most diverse groups she has ever worked with.

The committee was made up of parents, business people, students, retirees, adults without children, long-time Battle Ground residents and newcomers to the area. The group met about a dozen times.

Bond committee members were Marc Anderson, Clare Alexander, Patty Alway, Tim Bealer, Lori Bensen, Lee Bradford, Stephen Brown, Sue Cranke, Arianna Hilsen, Graham Markiewicz, Lou Maurina, Alex Mintz, Colleen O'Neal, Maura Quilling, Randy Rindt, Barb Rogers, Michelle Scott, Tom Swafford, Terri Tweedell, Michael Verity, Russ Wadleigh and Phil Weatherford.

Maurina, who helped present the recommendation to the board, said during the process of committee work he had moments of doubt as to the scope of construction needed within the District, but as research unfolded he saw the condition of schools and wanted to ask voters for a higher amount in the end.

Tweedell, who works as executive director of the Battle Ground Chamber of Commerce, said committee members worked hard to formulate a proposal near $50 million, and that what she hears from community members tends to support that amount.

"This is the bare minimum of what we need now," Tweedell said. "We can't let our schools go further."

Battle Ground voters currently pay 68 cents per $1,000 assessed value on their homes for a bond passed about 10 years ago.

If the new bond is approved, the rate will climb to $1.23-$1.33 per $1,000, depending on how the bonds are sold, said assistant superintendent Lynn Hicks.

On a $200,000 house, instead of paying $136 annually, the rate will be about $246-$266 annually, or from $11 to $20-$22 monthly.

Compared to the rest of Clark County, Battle Ground voters have been getting off easy for the past several years. Only Ridgefield voters currently pay a lower bond rate than Battle Ground at 59 cents per $1,000, according to statistics from the Educational Service District 112.

Highest bond rates in the County for 2003 are Hockinson residents at $2.81, Camas at $2.50, Evergreen at $2.05 and Washougal at $2.49.

If the new bond passes, Battle Ground voters still find themselves at the lower end of the county compared to other jurisdictions. La Center residents pay $1.99 and Vancouver $2.01.

Two meetings will be held in January to further discuss bond issues: Thurs., Jan. 8, 7 p.m., at Maple Grove Middle School, 12500 NE 199th St., and Thurs., Jan. 15, at a location to be announced.

For more information or any questions about the bond, contact Kelly Keister at 904-1233.

Marcus Brotherton, staff reporter

It's tough these days for Ryan Cowl to lift his little boy onto his lap to read him a book.

Doctors told Ryan to take it easy for a few weeks following a recent four-hour surgery. An 9-inch scar now runs around the side of his abdomen. Ryan is not supposed to lift more than 5 pounds until he recovers.

On Dec. 8, Ryan, a special education teacher at Captain Strong Elementary School in Battle Ground, donated one of his kidneys to his nearly 2-year-old son, Zachary.

Drooling, chuckling Zachary is too young to understand the rigors of all he and his dad have just been through; he just snuggles close to look at the book's pictures and grins. Zachary went through a seven-hour surgery at the same time to have his own damaged organs removed and receive his dad's kidney.

So far, doctors say the prognosis looks good for father and son.

Rocky start

Second-time parents Ryan and Katie Cowl knew they were in for a wild ride when they saw ultrasound pictures of Zachary in the womb, they said.

Their first child, Brianna, had been born without complications, but doctors discovered an enlarged bladder and blocked kidneys in Zachary. Katie's amniotic fluid was also low. She ended up in the hospital for the last six weeks of her pregnancy.

"We knew there was going to be some sort of permanent kidney damage with Zachary," Katie said. "We didn't know how much. We were given the opportunity of terminating the pregnancy, but it was never an option for us. We always took the attitude that whatever child God gives us is what we would take."

Zachary was born by caesarean section and whisked away to the hospital's neo-natal intensive care unit. The Cowl's saw him about four hours later. Zachary was filled with tubes and wires, they said. He was on oxygen and had hip dysplasia, kidney problems, a chest tube and a foot deformity. Five days would pass until they were able to hold their son.

Doctors did brain tests and offered a "gloom and doom report," the Cowls said. They were given the choice of starting kidney dialysis immediately or letting Zachary die by the first weekend. They put him on dialysis. Today, Zachary shows no sign of brain disfunction.

Zachary came home from the hospital after six weeks. Katie was trained to give dialysis and administer medications at home. Every night for 12 hours a machine would filter Zachary's blood while he slept. Zachary also needed a feeding tube. The Cowl's insurance company paid for eight hours weekly of nursing care.

"Zachary was always cheerful through this," Katie said. "He's got a really tender heart."

Life settled into a routine for the Cowls. They decided to not let their son's conditions slow them down, they said. Over the next 18 months they took vacations to the beach and mountains; ("Just a few more things to pack," Ryan said.) Katie became pregnant with the couple's third child, Mallory.

Transplant decisions

The Cowls had known all along that someday Zachary would need a kidney transplant, they said.

Doctors say siblings make the best matches, but donors have to be 18 years old, which was too long to wait for the Cowls. The next best fit is parents. The Cowls decided Ryan would make a better candidate because of work and home situations.

Father and son began to prepare for the surgery last summer, each undergoing a barrage of tests. Ryan never had second thoughts about giving his son a kidney, he said.

"I felt fortunate I was able to be the donor," Ryan said. "The thought was: `What do we have to do to get Zach healthy?' I was just hoping there'd be nothing that would stop the transplant from happening."

Father and son were prepped for the operation Dec. 8. Ryan's two brothers, Clayton and Darren Cowl, both doctors, flew out from the midwest to offer support. The surgeries would happen in buildings adjacent to one another on the campus of Oregon Health and Science University in Portland.

Ryan's surgery was shorter. He was told he was humming church hymns when he awoke. He was wheeled up to a recovery room to wait for his son.

How did Katie feel when both her husband and son were in surgery?

"I was just hoping everything would go the way it was supposed to," Katie said. "I got regular updates, but it was hard to concentrate."

When Zachary emerged from surgery, doctors offered an immediately encouraging report. The new kidney functioned right away. The operation had been a success.

The Cowls saw their son the following day. Ryan went home in five days, Zachary in six.

Zachary still has a few complications today and will need to be on anti-rejection medications the rest of his life, but doctors say his long-term prognosis looks good.

Ryan's full recovery will take about 12 weeks. He can return to work in January and soon resume hobbies of playing basketball and volleyball.

Does Ryan believe he has an uncommon bond with his son because of the operation?

"I love all my kids the same," Ryan said, "but it's true, Zachary and I have been through something special. As a family, the experience has pulled us a lot closer. Mostly, we're just thankful--other families have it a lot harder than us. Basically, at the end of the day we're just thankful for another good day of health."

FATHER-DAUGHTER TEAM RECOGNIZED FOR POLICE AID

Michele Bloomquist, staff reporter

Woodland police chief Grover Laseke presented certificates of commendation to a father-daughter team that helped foil a burglary.

The event occurred Oct. 10 when 13-year-old Krystal Wells spotted an open door at the back of the Lovejoy Law Offices, Laseke said.

Krystal alerted her father, Dave Wells, who owns Dave's Garage located behind the law office.

A man emerged, ran across the city hall annex roof and jumped onto Davidson Ave. Dave Wells chased and detained William Alfred Weaver of Vancouver until police arrived, Laseke said.

Weaver pleaded guilty to burglary and was sentenced to time in the Cowlitz County Jail, Laseke said.

"It was the sharp eyes of Krystal that saw the back door was open and her dad that chased the man down," Laseke said, noting the duo's courage.

WOODLAND HIGH MAY SEE SCHEDULE CHANGES

Michele Bloomquist, staff reporter

"Will I still be able to take calculus?" was the question posed by two Woodland High School students to school board members at a Dec. 10 meeting.

Both students are in advanced placement classes and came to ask for more details about an announcement that the school's class schedule could be overhauled next year.

Under the new schedule, students will spend more time on reading, writing and math basics, especially during freshman and sophomore years, said superintendent William Hundley.

If enough students are interested, calculus will still be offered, Hundley assured the students.

The change is prompted as part of an overall plan by District officials to bring up lagging scores on the Washington Assessment of Student Learning (WASL) standardized tests, Hundley said.

"As education reform came to the forefront, we started to notice some things," Hundley said. "The high school test scores have been problematic."

In WASL tests this year, about 29 percent of Woodland's 10th grade students met state requirements for math, 54 percent for reading, 44 percent for writing, 74 percent for listening and 16 percent for science.

Woodland tenth grader science scores were the lowest among area districts, and about half of the state average.

Under the proposed change, students would attend six 55 minutes classes per day and earn six credits per year, said high school principal John Schoup.

During ninth and 10th grades, three of those class periods would be devoted to math, science and English, Schoup said.

Currently, students attend three, 90-minute classes and two, 45-minute classes per day, earning eight credits per year, Schoup said.

"With the current schedule we cannot guarantee our freshman and sophomore students have math, science and English every day," Schoup said.

Hundley agreed that the move back to basics is needed to bring up test scores.

"We realized that some of the students going into the 10th grade test could have been one-half year to one year without taking a math class [under the current schedule]," Hundley said.

Electives now taken during student's first two years will likely be shifted to the junior and senior years under the new schedule, Hundley said.

"It does limit elective opportunities some and narrow the curriculum," Hundley said. "I have some issues with that narrowing but not with the philosophy that kids need to have good basic skills when they graduate."

The change was recommended by the school's eight member faculty building leadership team after reviewing several possible options, Hundley said.

In November, Woodland curriculum director Jim Imhoff said low test scores would prompt a series of changes, including a new curriculum for grades 7-9, and a new approach to teaching science.

"We really need to correct our direction," said Imhoff. "We have been heavy in content, fundamentals and facts."

Instead, Woodland students will focus on how to apply scientific inquiry.

Imhoff said the WASL test challenges students to solve problems, with a lesser emphasis on facts.

At present, Woodland high school students can satisfy science requirements in their freshman year.

"I understand we need to do this for the WASL, but I think we're taking away from the higher achieving students," student representative Bree Cochran told the board. "A lot of juniors are freaking out."

"When we came in our freshman year, we made a four-year plan," said junior Kaprice Kellison. "To have that change your senior year is a problem."

Kellison, who is in advanced placement classes, said she fears the proposed schedule's reduced number of electives would limit opportunities to study topics such as foreign language, chemistry and business.

"It seems like we'll be losing out on a lot of things we should be learning that aren't on the test," Kellison said.

Another concern raised by the students at the board meeting is what the change in schedule, and credits earned, will mean for students already midstream.

Under the current schedule, students must earn 30-32 credits to graduate.

Under the new system, incoming freshman will need 22-24 credits.

The number will still be several credits above the state's minimum 19 credits required to graduate, Schoup said.

Next year's seniors, juniors and sophomore will have the new graduation requirement phased in, combining their eight credits per year required so far with six credits per year going forward, Schoup said.

For example, next year's seniors will need 28-30 credits to graduate--eight from each of their first three years plus six from their senior year.

However, the lowered required credits won't let students who already lag in credits squeak by come graduation day, Schoup said.

"If they're two credits short of graduating now, they'll still be two credits short under the new system," Schoup said.

Schoup believes much of the students' confusion over changes is based on lack of information.

"There's some misinformation out there but that's okay," Schoup said. "It's our job to get the information out."

Schoup will address proposed changes the first week in January in a monthly newsletter to parents.

Schoup is also setting up parent and student conferences during January and February.

The proposed change is expected to come before the school board for a final decision sometime in February, Hundley said.

WOODLAND SETTLES 2004 BUDGET

New council members sworn in

Michele Bloomquist, staff reporter

Woodland city council members unanimously adopted the city's 2004 budget at a Dec. 15 meeting.

The council was expected to adopt the document at a Dec. 1 meeting, but requested more time to look over the details.

One change was a result of a request from council member Jim Tone who asked for a vehicle replacement fund to be set up with any extra revenue generated from the building department.

This year, building revenue exceeded projections by 43 percent.

Tone asked for the first $7,500 over projection in 2004 be set aside for a vehicle replacement savings fund rather than put into the general fund.

"I don't want to see the extras to go into the fishbowl," Tone said.

The change could create an additional $5,000 per year in savings over the former $2,500 reserve amount, Tone said.

Several of the city's public works vehicles are expected to need replacement over the next few years, said council member Mike Kruse.

Cost of living included

After an executive session, council members also approved a 2.6 percent cost of living adjustment to city clerk Mari Ripp's salary.

The adjustment was in addition to an overall 1.7 percent increase for administrative and exempt employees, bringing Ripp's annual salary to $62,856.

The 2004 salaries for other department heads include $80,712 for public works director Rob VanderZanden, $71,823 for police chief Grover Laseke, and $67,146 for fire chief Rob Dahl.

Although Laseke will only work one day per week until he retires in March, he will be paid at full salary through use of accrued sick and vacation time, Ripp said.

Woodland Public Association members received a 3 percent cost of living increase.

No additions or cuts in staffing were proposed in 2004, Ripp said.

Police and city reach agreement

A tentative agreement with the Police Officer's Association was also reached during executive session, Ripp said.

The contract provides a $65 per month increase in salary per step, an overall increase of 1.7 percent. Lower medical insurance coverage is also part of the deal, Ripp said.

City officials are also considering implementing a longevity plan that would reward officers at five, 10, and 15 years of service, Ripp said.

Otherwise, the $10 million budget was approved as proposed, Ripp said.

The budget is down 7.3 percent overall from the previous year, or $800,000, Ripp said.

Projects on the city's to-do list include reconstructing Dunham Ave., improving drainage at the Dike Access Rd. interchange, adding a pole building for storage at the new public works facility, and more sidewalks in the downtown area.

City officials plan to continue a search for land for a future public safety facility, Ripp said.

New council members sworn in

Mayor-elect Doug Monge and council member-elect Chris Haughee were sworn into office at the Dec. 15 meeting along with reelected council member Jim Tone for his second term.

A one-hour open house to recognize the efforts of mayor Jim Graham and council member Darryl Maunu was held before the meeting.

The newly sworn-in officials will take office Jan. 1, Ripp said, and preside over a Mon., Jan. 5 council meeting.

WOODLAND TIGHTENS STREET PARKING RULES

Michele Bloomquist, staff reporter

Woodland residents with boats, motor homes and trailers aren't allowed to park them on the street for more than two hours.

City council members unanimously adopted an ordinance Dec. 15 limiting curb time to two hours.

Commercial vehicles and trucks weighing more than 10,000 pounds must also park elsewhere.

The ban applies to all commercial, residential and industrial areas within Woodland city limits.

The ordinance specifies large vehicles cannot be parked for any amount of time in locations where they can create a traffic hazard.

The change came at the request of police chief Grover Laseke, who discovered a portion of the zoning code regarding on-street parking had been inadvertently removed during a revision.

The error was discovered when officers looked to the code for guidance after responding to complaints about a motor home parked on the street that was blocking the view of a stop sign at a busy intersection, Laseke said.

At a previous meeting, city council members debated how long on-street parking of the vehicles should be allowed such as when an out-of-town guest arrives for a visit.

"If your aunt June comes to visit, she can park her motor home on the street in front of your house for two hours," Laseke said. "But if she's going to stay the night, she'll need to find another place to park."

Several mini-storage facilities in Woodland rent parking space for such vehicles if owners don't have room on their property, Laseke said.

"If you have a large motor home, it's really not fair to your neighbors to park it out on the street," he said. "It can create problems for the fire department to gain access in case of a fire."

Violators will receive a parking ticket for $38, Laseke said. If the vehicle is still not moved, it could be tagged and towed 24 hours later.

PUBLIC TESTIMONY OPEN FOR RIDGEFIELD DEVELOPMENT

Heidi Wallenborn, news director

Columbia River Development officials are in the final stages of approval for a 213 unit planned unit development on nearly 42 acres in Ridgefield.

Comments on or objections to the issuance of a Mitigated Determination of Nonsignificance by city officials are welcome by Thurs., Jan. 15, sent to city clerk Kay Kammer at Ridgefield city hall.

A public hearing by a hearings examiner about the proposed development, dubbed Cedar Ridge, will be held Thurs., Jan. 15, 7 p.m., at city hall, 230 NW Pioneer St. Written and oral testimony will be accepted at the hearing.

The property, located at 3301 NW Pioneer St. with S 55th Place as the east border, is zoned single-family and multi-family residential and open space/density transfer.

The applicant proposes to build 159 single family homes and 54 attached townhomes on lot sizes varying from 2,697 square feet to 12,900 square feet over 29 acres.

The project will also include stormwater management facilities, park areas, a common active recreation area, a trail system and open space.

A tributary of Gee Creek runs from southeast to northwest across the southwest corner of the property, with another reach of stream extending from the tributary northward. A wetland exists in the middle of the 42 acres.

The applicant is requesting variances for lot sizes, filling a 167-foot wetland and reducing the speed limit by 20 miles per hour on NW Pioneer St.

Written testimony may be sent or taken to city hall, 230 NW Pioneer St., or P.O. Box 608, Ridgefield, WA 98642.

BROTHERS LAND NATIONAL FLY FISHING TITLE

Heidi Wallenborn, news director

Steve Rajeff of Battle Ground and his younger brother Tim Rajeff of Vancouver recently split $30,000 and share the national title of Fly Fishing Masters.

The duo competed in a top-of-the line competition in mid-October hosted by the Outdoor Life Network on television.

Rajeff, a fishing rod designer at GLoomis in Woodland, first heard about the championship when he was contacted during the competition's planning stages to recommend a fly casting location for the first round.

Rajeff recommended the Angling and Casting Club at Golden Gate Park in San Francisco, and they took his advice.

Rajeff and his brother, who is a North America distributor of Airflow fly lines, showed up with about 50 other pairs at the site for the first junket of the Far West regionals.

Across the nation in the New England, Southeast and Rocky Mountain regionals, 50 other duos for each area competed in different locations.

The first portion was to see how far and accurate the fly fisherman could cast and hit a target. Out of the 50, eight of the best pairs were chosen and moved on to the fishing competition. The Rajeffs were among them.

Over two days, winners were whittled down to one team representing their region, then it was on to the championship.

Secrecy shrouded the event, Rajeff said. The four teams met in Kansas City as the central place. They boarded a chartered jet for an undisclosed location. All the fishermen were told was that they would be fly fishing for trout.

As the jet headed west, team members tried guessing where they were going.

"We saw the Rocky Mountains, and someone said they saw the Grand Tetons south of the plane," Rajeff said. "Then the big organizer said `okay, everybody close the curtains.'"

About 30 minutes later, the plane began descending with passengers still guessing the location.

Rajeff recognized buildings around the Bozeman, MT airport.

Ford was one of the television shows big sponsors, and provided sport utility vehicles and pickup trucks. Each fisherman had his own cameraman plus a soundman for each team.

After unloading at the hotel, the contestants were told to bring their fly rods and waders, they were leaving right away for the river.

The group drove 23 miles east to Livingston, MT which skirts the shores of the Yellowstone River before reaching 3-mile long Depuys Spring Creek on a private cattle ranch. The creek is well known for its rainbow, cutthroat and brown trout.

While there, teams were allowed to explore the creek, which was divided up into four "beats" or sections, Rajeff said. They also competed for casting accuracy and distance in a natural pond made by the creek to determine who got the first choice of "beats."

They were also told they could not use any flies they brought with them, and were given kits to tie their own overnight. The men were allowed to sift through grass, weeds and turn over rocks to determine the right tie for the stream.

The Rajeffs made "very tiny" size 20 and 22 barbless hooks with olive mayflies and size 20 midges, "like gnats," to "match the hatch," he said. They decided on 2-pound test leaders as well.

The first fishing day was cold, windy and some hail mixed with snow fell. Fishermen had two hours to catch two trout each, or four per pair. Winners were determined by inches of the catch. The first fish was recorded, but if the second was unsatisfactory, the pair could choose to try one more time for a bigger catch.

Rules were no barbed hooks and no injury to the fish or there would be zero score for that fish.

The Rajeffs came in second in the first round with only three fish caught between them. They competed against third ranked Colorado team in the quarter finals.

On the final round day, the weather cooperated with highs in the 50s and partly sunny skies. The brothers caught four, 15-16 inch trout for a total of 60 inches, within one hour and 45 minutes.

Teams were given four hours to compete on that last day, so the Rajeffs cooled their heels while waiting for the competitors to finish. In the end, the Colorado team only had three fish, as one was disqualified because a barbed hook was used to catch it.

"We waited two hours and 15 minutes to find out," Rajeff said.

"[The event] was very well organized," he said. "Great care was taken to not impact the private property or the fish. It was perfectly ecologically managed."

Although Rajeff seems to have taken the title and the $30,000 prize money with ease, he rarely participates in competitions, he said.

"My biggest background is tournament casting," he said, and holds 28 awards for American All-Around and 13 for World All-Around champions.

View the Fly Fishing Masters competition through December on the Outdoor Life Network Saturdays at 7:30 a.m. Pacific time and Sundays at 10 a.m.

PHOTO: Steve Rajeff (shown) and his brother Tim won $30,000, the national Fly Fishing Masters title and this wood carved trophy on an event sponsored by Outdoor Life Network.

OBITS:

WALTER LUOKKALA

Walter Rudolf Luokkala, 77, died at home in Battle Ground Dec. 17, 2003.

Luokkala was born Dec. 19, 1925 in Thompson Township, Minnesota. He served in the U.S. Navy during World War II.

Luokkala enjoyed restoring Ford Model A cars. He was a champion mole catcher. He loved to play cribbage and fish at Ilwaco. He could eat without gaining an ounce.

Luokkala was an active member of the Veteran's of Foreign Wars, Brothers & Sisters of Finland Lodge, Son's of Norway Lodge and Hockinson Community Church.

Survivors include widow Pearl Luokkala of Battle Ground, daughter Mary Lou Catton of Oregon, step-daughters Adele Willmon of Oregon and Martha Mancuso of Spokane, step-son Pete Tandberg of Colorado, sisters Hannah Horner and Ruth Williams, both of Battle Ground, Esther Loyer and Marjorie Price, both of California, Elsie Harold of Longview, Lillian Berry of Castle Rock, and Dorothy Gauthier of Kelso, brother Dale Luokkala of Battle Ground, seven grandchildren and five great-grandchildren.

Burial was at Evergreen Memorial Gardens Cemetery, Vancouver, with Memorial Gardens Funeral Chapel in charge of arrangements.

DOROTHEA LANE

Dorothea Lorene Nelson (Worthington) Lane, 90, died Dec. 17, 2003 in Brush Prairie.

Lane was born Oct. 9, 1913 in El Dorado, MO, worked as a cannery supervisor in food preservation, and lived in Clark County for 61 years.

Lane was a charter member of the Pleasant View Church of the Nazarene. She loved her grandchildren. She enjoyed cooking, canning, quilting, singing and making up songs. She had a good sense of humor.

Lane was preceded in death by her first husband, Charles Nelson, and second husband, Homer Lane in 2000. Survivors include sons Roy Nelson of Battle Ground and John Nelson of Portland, brothers Bob Worthington and Warren Worthington, both of Ridgefield, seven grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren.

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

GERALD KOETHE

Gerald "Buzz" Elwood Koethe, 72, died Dec. 15, 2003 in Vancouver.

Koethe was born Feb. 17, 1931, in Ridgefield, worked as a millwright for Boise Cascade, and lived in Ridgefield for 60 years.

Koethe graduated from Ridgefield High School in 1949. He coached Little League in Ridgefield in the 1960s. He enjoyed woodcarving, woodworking, traveling, collecting rocks and drawing. He loved sports, fishing, hunting, and wildlife. He enjoyed animals. He also loved his grandchildren.

Koethe served in the U.S. Air Force during the Korean Conflict.

Survivors include widow Grayce Koethe, at home, daughters Vanessa Mayhew of Oregon, Gayle Erspamer of La Center and Sharon Carter of Ridgefield, son David Koethe of Ridgefield, sisters Gloria Pietz of Ridgefield and Carole Christensen of Vancouver, brother Joel Koethe of Ridgefield, eight grandchildren and nine great-grandchildren.

Layne's Funeral Home, Battle Ground, was in charge of arrangements.

CHARLES WOODRUFF

Charles William Woodruff, 81, died Dec. 14, 2003 in Yacolt.

Woodruff was born Feb. 25, 1922 in Knowlton, MT, worked as a quality control supervisor for defense aeronautics, and lived in Clark County for 19 years.

Woodruff attended high school in Miles City, MT and graduated from Chaffney College in California. He served as a staff sergeant in the U.S. Air Force during World War II. He was a navigator and radar operator, flying missions in the Pacific. He was awarded the Distinguished Flying Cross, the Purple Heart and the Air Medal.

Woodruff managed an appliance and furniture story in Montana, moved to California in 1956, and worked as a quality control supervisor for General Dynamics and then Perkin Elmer.

Woodruff retired to Amboy in 1985. He enjoyed transplanting trees, looking after cattle and raising a garden. He was an avid reader of current events and history.

Woodruff was preceded in death by his wife, Louise Woodruff, in 2001. Survivors include daughters Marueen McCracken of California and Kirtlye Woodruff of Canada, sisters Doris Winslow and Audry Zuroff, both of Montana, and two grandsons.

Interment was at Eastern Montana State Veterans Cemetery, with Layne's Funeral Home, Battle Ground, in charge of arrangements.

Stephen Scott Bonesteele, 16, died Dec. 15, 2003 in Portland.

Bonesteele was born June 19, 1987 in Oak Harbor, was a student at CAM High School in Battle Ground, and lived in Clark County for 13 years.

Bonesteele enjoyed skateboarding, computers and technical stuff. He was a member of St. John's Lutheran Church youth group.

Survivors include parents Scott and Robin Bonesteele of Battle Ground, brother Ryan Bonesteele of Battle Ground, grandparents Lynda Cangemi of Seattle, Anthony Cangemi of Vancouver and Nordine Thorson of Battle Ground, and several aunts, uncles and cousins.

Interment was at St. John Lutheran Cemetery, with the Vancouver Funeral Chapel in charge of arrangements.

Memorials are suggested to American Cancer Society, Camp Youth Ukando, and the Leukemia/Lymphoma Society.

Joseph Henry Emineth, 48, died Dec. 19, 2003 in Portland.

Emineth was born Jan. 4, 1955 in Lead, SD, worked as a small business operator in mail receiving and shipping, and lived in Clark County for more than 30 years.

Emineth was an alcoholism counselor and active in helping people recover from alcoholism. He liked eating, welding, fabricating and working on cars. He enjoyed his friends and cared for other people.

Survivors include widow Camille Emineth, at home in Vancouver, daughter Courtney Hansberger of Colorado, son Aaron Emineth of Vancouver, sisters Elizabeth of Vancouver, Donna Reedes, Barbara Haven, Jean of Nebraska, Patricia Manning of Woodland and Nora Strittmaker of Vancouver, brothers Leo Emineth Jr. of Arizona and Robert Emineth, and one grandchild.

Graveside services will be held Fri., Dec. 26, 2 p.m., at Memory Memorial Park Cemetery, Vancouver, with Layne's Funeral Home, Battle Ground, in charge of arrangements.

ERNEST NORNE

Earnest Amel Horne, 87, died Dec. 21, 2003 in Vancouver.

Horne was born June 1, 1916 in Nebraska City, Nebraska, worked as a pipefitter, and lived in Brush Prairie for 61 years.

Horne attended Cherry Grove Friends Church. He was the 1997 tree farmer of the year for the Clark County Farm Forestry Association. He enjoyed tree farming and photography.

Horne was preceded in death by three wives, Maxine Horne in 1979, Frances Horne in 1997 and Adah Horne in 2002. Survivors include daughters Pat Horne of Oregon and Katherine Horne of Olympia, sons Bob Horne of Ridgefield and Jim Horne of Amboy, six grandchildren and two great-grandchildren.

Memorial services will be held Sat., Dec. 27, 11 a.m., at Cherry Grove Friends Church, Battle Ground, with Layne's Funeral Home, Battle Ground, in charge of arrangements.