BG KINDERGARTENS MAY GO TO HALF-DAY SCHEDULE

Marcus Brotherton, staff reporter

Kindergarten students in the Battle Ground School District may see a change in schedules this fall.

Board members mulled a recommendation March 9 to switch from the District's current "full-day every other day" model to a "half-day every day" approach.

Battle Ground is the only District in Clark County that is on the full-day schedule. Officials say few schools are on the system nationally.

Kindergarten teachers and administrators made a proposal one year ago to a District curriculum subcommittee advocating the change.

Presenters said half-days produce better classroom consistency. Young students are also less tired with half-days, and curriculum is more readily matched to classrooms.

The subcommittee further researched half-days and sent a survey June 2003 to District patrons. Data returned did not clearly show a preference for either option, say officials.

Full-day proponents say the current system allows more parent-child contact and longer blocks of free choice for social development. Some also like that children don't have to get ready for school every day.

In January, a meeting was held with primary school principals and kindergarten teachers. Most input from this meeting favored the half-day approach. A community forum Jan. 22 yielded the same results. About 25 District patrons attended the forum.

The subcommittee's recommendation now is that the District move to a half-day schedule beginning this fall. Transportation will be provided both ways. Additional busing costs are estimated at $134,000. Classes will be determined by geographic areas. Some exceptions will be granted.

Informational forums about half-day scheduling will be Tues., March 23, 6:30 p.m., at Amboy Middle School, 22115 NE Chelatchie Rd.; Wed., March 24, 6:30 p.m., Glenwood Heights Primary, 9716 NE 134th St., Brush Prairie; Thurs., March 25, 6:30 p.m., Pleasant Valley Primary, 14320 NE 50th Ave., Salmon Creek; and Tues., March 30, 6 p.m., Chief Umtuch Primary, 700 NW 9th St., Battle Ground.

PANEL DISCUSSION REMEMBERS RIDGEFIELD

Marcus Brotherton, staff reporter

A panel of longtime Ridgefield residents will tell historical stories Sat., March 27, at a second annual Old Timer's discussion during the Ridgefield Heritage Celebration.

The free community question and answer forum will be held 1:30 p.m., at the Ridgefield Community Center, 210 N Main Ave.

Marvin Case, publisher and editor of The Reflector, will moderate the event.

Those who participated in the event last year say a wealth of wisdom, history and memories of time gone by was offered.

Opportunities to stay later and talk informally with panelists is also given once the event is concluded.

Warm up for main event

Four panel members met March 11 to swap stories, practice for the event and remember the past.

Bill Bartel, 84, Barbara Hayden-Coldwill, 79, Kathleen (Sederburg) Elmer, 70, and John Burrow, 88, have all lived in Ridgefield their entire lives.

Some of Bartel's ancestors came to Ridgefield from Russia via Canada. Others came west on wagon trains. His parents settled around the German Town area and farmed potatoes and dairy cattle. His mother's parents helped form Ridgefield's original Bethel Church.

Hayden-Coldwill's parents came from Holland and settled first in Portland, then near Baker City, OR in 1932 where her father worked as a lumber inspector.

Hayden-Coldwill's dad bought five acres near the Clark County Fairgrounds for $5 down and $5 per month. She remembers picking prunes and berries as a child to buy school clothes and supplies.

Elmer was born in 1933 in a house on what is now NE 289th St. Her father was born in the same house in 1904. Her grandfather moved from Sweden to Ridgefield to have freedom and buy land; two adjoining 40-acre parcels were purchased with the intent to pass one each to sons.

One of Elmer's most defining moments, she said, is when I-5 was built, dividing her father's property. The freeway was constructed in stages over years in that section, with surveying done and a two-lane highway coming in first.

Burrow was born on Bachelor's Island in 1915. His father was born in 1881 in the same house. His grandparents came to America in 1847 from England via sailboat. They traveled across America in a covered wagon and homesteaded on the Island in the mid 1850s.

One of Burrow's grandparents was a circuit-riding minister who was shot in the back by Union soldiers during the Civil War. The minister's widow and her 10 children traveled across the plains to reach the west coast by covered wagon around 1864.

Memories of Ridgefield

Burrow remembers a school boat in the 1930s that made runs up Lake River to pick up children for school.

Hayden-Coldwill recently found a ledger than showed cord wood purchases for those boat runs. The boat ran on steam heated by wood.

Bartel remembers at least six school areas formed to make the Ridgefield School District--Enterprise, West Pioneer, Baker, Sara, Lambert and part of the Good Hope district.

What did these panelists do for fun when they were youths?

Hayden-Coldwill remembers a play shed at the back of the Baker school used on rainy days. Children wrote notes and put slips of paper into holes in the walls. When the shed was turned into a dance hall 20 years later the notes were found.

Burrow remembers a lot of swimming and softball as a boy, but mostly working, he said. He "was doing a man's work by age 13," milking cows and pitching hay.

Elmer never knew her family was poor, she said.

"We always had enough food to eat," Elmer said. "We raised our own food."

All panelists remembered stores that used to be around the area including the Serve You Well--a general mercantile with gas pumps out front, and Horn's Corner, a grocery store owned by Ben Brown. Brown offered free candy as a marketing tool.

What were people like 60-70 years ago?

"Neighbors," Bartel said. "Everyone would help out if you needed it. Everyone was in the same boat. When a new family moved to town, we'd give them about five days to straighten house and then go visit with a gift."

Burrow discussed various industries that used to be in the Ridgefield area including a cheese factory, a bowling alley, Bratlie's Shingle Mill and the Ridgefield Lumber Company.

After graduating from high school, Burrow worked at Bratlie's for 30 cents per hour. He remembers his first two-week paycheck for $27.

"The first time I saw a $27 check I didn't think there was that much money in the world," Burrow said.

The four remember registering to vote by party back then. Everyone voted in those days, they said.

"It was important," Bartel said. "My father couldn't read or write, but when he went to the polls, my mother would come with him and tell him where to mark his ballot."

The four remember Ridgefield resident William Carty, a democrat, who was state representative for 35 years. All the eighth grade classes in Ridgefield could go to Olympia then and visit because of Carty.

The four said going to church was more widespread back then. The First Presbyterian church came to Ridgefield in 1884, followed by the Methodists, the Nazarenes and Seventh-day Adventists. A Catholic bishop came to Ridgefield once monthly.

What is the biggest change they've noticed in Ridgefield?

Population increase, they said, as well as more development and better roads.

LA CENTER PAYS FORMER CLERKS

Bill Myers, staff reporter

In two separate meetings, La Center city council members approved payments of about $20,000 each to two former city clerks.

On Feb. 25, council members authorized payment of $20,051 to former city clerk/treasurer Janice Fillman.

City attorney Daniel Kearns said payment to Fillman settled a wage dispute. Kearns, mayor Jim Irish and Fillman declined to provide more details.

Fillman retired last month from after 13 years of service, and currently helps part-time at city hall pending the hiring of a new clerk/treasurer.

On March 10, council members approved a $19,846.26 severance package for recently fired city employee Brian Yaw.

The package includes three-months salary at $5,894 per month, and two months of health insurance benefits at $1,082.13 per month.

Yaw, after serving almost six months as city clerk/finance officer, was terminated by Irish days before the expiration of his employment probation period.

Irish said Yaw, with excellent previous corporate experience, was handicapped in the city position because he lacked previous municipal experience.

"Everyone thinks highly of Brian as a decent person," said Kearns.

Both council votes were unanimous.

CHARGES PENDING AFTER DOGS FOUND AT FAIRGROUNDS

The Clark County prosecutor is considering charges against David and Janice Long of Lewis County after four miniature American Eskimo mix dogs were found in a horse trailer at the Clark County Fairgrounds.

The Longs were convicted in December 2003 of animal cruelty in Pacific County. According to Kate Dulemba of the Humane Society for Southwest Washington, the four dogs were discovered March 6 by a concerned citizens at a horse show.

Dulemba said the dogs were left at the fairgrounds March 2 or 3.

Dulemba said one female dog is pregnant. Three are white, one black; one is male.

Dulemba said all show signs of neglect, such as matted fur, missing clumps of fur, and scarring. They are 2-4 years old, she said.

"This is such a tragic occurrence," said Dulemba. "Although it happens very infrequently, even once is too much for us."

Dulemba said the four dogs will need medical attention and grooming. Donations are invited to assist with their care, she said.

The four dogs will be retained as evidence, said Dulemba, until a decision is reached as to prosecution.

Nathan Needham, deputy prosecutor in Pacific County, said the Longs were convicted of 12 counts of animals cruelty in the second degree involving horses kept on a pasture in Pacific County.

The Longs were sentenced Feb. 2 to two years of unsupervised probation, $3,500 fine each, and 60 days in jail each, with 55 days that can be served in work release, electronic home confinement, or in a similar way.

The Longs also were ordered to forfeit the horses, although at least nine had already been sold, said Needham.

Needham said the Longs had not yet served their five days in jail.

If convicted of animal cruelty in Clark County, said Needham, the Longs would face probation revocation in Pacific County.

The Humane Society can be reached at 693-4746.

BROKAW WILL RUN FOR STATE HOUSE

Pam Brokaw, who currently manages the Water Resources Education Center for the city of Vancouver, has announced her intention to run for the state House of Representatives in the 18th District.

Brokaw, a Democrat, will run for the position now held by Tom Mielke (R-Battle Ground). Mielke has not announced his election plans.

Brokaw, 50, worked as a reporter for The Reflector, The Oregonian, and The Columbian before working in communications for Clark County for seven years, and then the Vancouver Clark Parks and Recreation Department.

"I love this community," said Brokaw in explaining why she wants to serve in the state legislature. "I have a lot to bring to the legislature. I'm a hard worker. We need people like me in Olympia."

Brokaw said she continues to study issues and will develop more firm positions as the campaign unfolds.

Transportation

Brokaw could not recall how she voted on I-51, a 9 cent gas tax measure that was defeated by voters before the legislature passed a 5 cent gas tax during the last session. She agrees with the firm connection between a proposed tax and the projects that would be funded.

Brokaw was unsure if voters should be asked to decide the light rail, or whether light rail should be constructed without a public vote.

Education

Brokaw said a "sound educational program" is needed for quality of life. She said teachers should be more highly compensated.

Brokaw endorsed the idea of standardized testing and academic requirements for high school graduation, but such requirements should be "reasonable and realistic." She generally opposed vouchers that would allow students who attend private schools to take their tax money with them. "Schools don't need any more hits," said Brokaw.

Growth Management

Brokaw said growth management needs to assure that infrastructure keeps pace with development. "Relief needs to come from the state to solve (certain) transportation issues," said Brokaw. "We must try to problem solve together."

Public votes

"The biggest problem in government is getting information out," said Brokaw. "People want to vote (on issues) because they have lost confidence in government."

Brokaw said a public vote was not needed on the Vancouver convention center because "there were ample opportunities for people to provide input" and obtain information.

Brokaw said he supports the proposed Louisiana primary plan in which the top two vote-getters in a primary elections, regardless of political party, advance to the general election.

Brokaw said she supports a change in state law to reduce from 60 percent to 50 percent the vote requirement on passage of school levies. "The super majority has hurt too many school districts," said Brokaw.

"I want voters to look at my character, drive and (work) record," said Brokaw, who has never before held elective public office.

Brokaw was uncertain whether she would retain her current job if elected to the legislature, or if she would resign.

Brokaw can be reached at 909-5802.

AUTHOR DR. SEUSS REMEMBERED AT PARTY

A birthday party for children's book author Dr. Seuss was held March 6 at the Battle Ground Community Library.

The event marked the 100th anniversary of the birth of Dr. Seuss.

About 83 people attended the event, which included the reading of a Dr. Seuss story, various games, the singing of Happy Birthday to Dr. Seuss, a crazy sox contest, and refreshments.

Battle Ground librarian Jackie Spurlock said 10 volunteers assisted with the party, mostly members of the library's Young Adult Advisory Board.

The games related to Dr. Seuss books, such as a fishing pond called McElligots Pool.

Theodor Seuss Geisel was born March 2, 1904 in Springfield, Massachusetts. As a child, he wrote humorous poems and drew cartoons.

Geisel attended Dartmouth College where he wrote for a student humor magazine. After running afoul of the college's policies, Geisel continued writing for the magazine using the pseudonym "Seuss" which was both is middle name and his mother's maiden name.

After graduating from Dartmouth, Geisel attended Oxford where he changed his ambition from a career in teaching to becoming an artist. He spent 15 years working in advertising for Standard Oil.

Geisel's first children's book--And To Think That I Saw It on Mulberry Street-- appeared in 1939, followed by several books in the 1940s. He moved to California in 1948 where he worked eight hours a day.

Geisel--well known by his pseudonym Seuss--catapulted to celebrity in 1957 with the publication of The Cat in the Hat. He followed that with Green Eggs and Ham, the book that was read March 6 at the Battle Ground birthday party.

About 30 of Dr. Seuss's books have been adapted for television or video, including the ever-popular How the Grinch Stole Christmas.

Ted Geisel died Sept. 24, 1991, at home in La Jolla, CA, at age 87. At the time of his death, 200 million copies of his books found their way into homes in 15 languages.

WSDOT SETS I-5/SR-502 MEETING

Battle Ground meeting will air preferred alignment for interchange

Bill Myers, staff reporter

Officials of the Washington State Department of Transportation will host a public meeting Thurs., March 25, to discuss a preferred alignment of a new I-5 interchange at an extension of SR-502.

Department assistant area engineer Leon Winger said state and Clark County transportation officials at the meeting will discuss the interchange and other area highway projects.

Winger said mitigation of wetland and stormwater at the proposed interchange site could begin soon.

According to a project schedule, Department officials may begin acquiring land needed for stormwater storage or wetlands mitigation in summer 2004.

Construction of the $34.7 million interchange is scheduled to begin in 2006 with completion targeted by mid-2008.

The interchange and other state highway projects are funded by the 2003 Legislative Transportation "Nickel" Package, which is a 5 cent statewide gas tax.

Transportation officials say the interchange will improve access to the Battle Ground area and improve mobility and safety on the I-5 corridor and NE 10th Ave.

A ramp at SR-502 will also ease congestion at the NE 179th St. interchange during events at the Clark County Fairgrounds.

During a public meeting on the interchange last October, Department officials discussed nine possible design alternatives.

After reviewing Gee Creek environmental issues and other public concerns, designers settled on a preferred alternative.

The preferred design would allow westbound traffic on SR-502 to access north and southbound I-5. Westbound traffic that reaches a bridge over I-5 would have options to head north or south on the interstate.

Ramps from southbound and northbound I-5 would flow to SR-502.

Depending on traffic studies, the new design would allow westbound motorists a free turn onto southbound I-5 or subject them to a traffic signal.

Traffic exiting southbound I-5 would be controlled by a stopsign, or signal if one is installed.

The design would connect a new, three or four lane extension of SR-502 to the existing highway east of NE 22nd Ave.

Northeast 219th St. would come to a deadend at about NE 22nd Ave. Motorists west of the dead end could access the new highway from a new intersection at NE 10th Ave. north of Duluth.

Citizen plans to show another option

Ridgefield citizen Glenn Schmidt, who owns a home and five acres on the west side of I-5 near the proposed southbound ramp site, said the design won't benefit citizens living west of the interstate.

Schmidt said he will propose an alternative at the meeting that will benefit citizens on both sides of the interstate with easy flows to the interstate.

The meeting is set 6-8 p.m. in the Battle Ground High School Commons Area, 300 W Main St., Battle Ground. Information telephone number is 759 1310.

RIDGEFIELD OUSTS MANAGER

Interim city manager hired immediately

Heidi Wallenborn, news director

Ridgefield city manager Randy Bombardier was suspended from office and relieved of all duties effective "immediately" after a March 11 executive session of the Ridgefield city council.

Council member and former mayor Tim Thompson was the only dissenting vote of five council members.

According to a resolution regarding Bombardier, the council's intent is to remove him "as soon as permitted" by state law, which is 30 days.

Bombardier may request a public hearing about the matter in writing within those 30 days. If he does not, his termination will be automatically effective April 11.

Bombardier will be paid his salary and receive benefits during the 30 days, but will not receive severance pay after termination. He may request a separate public hearing on that matter even if he does not contest the council's intent to terminate.

Bombardier's attorney Rob Dunbabin said "we are certainly looking into a public hearing," and "leaving our options open."

According to the resolution, a public hearing would "rely on additional information and witness testimony as well as documents which are only summarized here, to elaborate on the reasons supporting this decision" with full details which are not currently available to the public.

"Just cause"

An investigation into Bombardier's conduct began after a Jan. 22 executive session when council members hired attorney Eileen Lawrence to look into employee complaints and allegations regarding retaliation, threats and violations of "whistleblower" protection laws.

Bombardier is accused of interfering in a state Department of Ecology and federal Environmental Protection Agency investigation into alleged improper removal of lead-based paint from the front of city hall in June 2002.

Council members are terminating Bombardier's employment with "just cause" as listed in his contract with the city when he was hired October 2001, according to the resolution.

According to Lawrence's findings, "just cause" in this instance falls under any of these: "improper use of city property such that it tends to damage or injure the integrity of public service, incompetency, inattention to or dereliction of duty, dishonesty, insubordination and discourteous treatment of the public or fellow employees."

Before leaving the building that evening, Bombardier handed over his keys, and Ridgefield police confiscated his computer and all computer discs, under Lawrence's direction.

"The city manager made an allegation that someone broke into his office and dumped his files," said police chief Bruce Hall. "We took it in for safekeeping. He said a crime occurred."

Hall said Bombardier complained to Sgt. Randy Ostrander a few weeks ago about the alleged incident, Hall said.

According to Hall, when Ostrander told Bombardier the process of reporting the crime and that the computer would need to be turned over to the police, the city manager declined to file a report.

"He didn't want anything done," Hall said. "He said he'd take care of it himself."

Bombardier was also directed to return all city property of any kind by noon the next day.

Interim city manager takes over

Immediately after the announcement was made regarding Bombardier, council members went into another executive session.

As a result, George Fox, 43, was unanimously hired as interim city manager. He is a professional management consultant, Certified Public Accountant and attorney.

Council members also voted to retain Lawrence on an "as needed basis" for legal services regarding personnel matters. Thompson voted "no" without explanation.

Fox began work at city hall the next day at 8 a.m., meeting with department heads and "shaking hands with anyone who walks through that door," he said.

Fox currently is under contract with several cities in various capacities, including the Port of Ridgefield as finance and administration director and assistant treasurer.

Brent Grening, Port executive director, said Fox is "the best management consultant I've ever met."

"George creates systems by which organizations can run, then trains to do that," he said. "He's no-nonsense, straightforward, takes complicated issues and gives it to people in plain English. He's top drawer. They don't get any better."

Fox said he was approached about two weeks ago by mayor Gladys Doriot who sought his help.

"We met for about an hour," Fox said. "The gist of the conversation was that the city's run off the rails...help put it back on track."

Afterward, Fox met with every council member individually "several times" for conversation and an outline of a city work plan.

Fox will be paid $125 per hour, capping at $6,100 per month. He expects to put in 60-75 hours monthly, and plans to see the city "in shape" in six months.

"I'm committed to the time it takes," Fox said. "I've been following the city's issues for the last five years. I think I can help them."

"There is a striking lack of trust in the council with staff, council with council, council with citizens," he said. "We need to first establish trust by speaking clearly and plainly and building a structure."

Fox will put rules and procedures in place and act as mentor, consultant, coach and bridge-builder until a permanent city manager is found.

"This city will be run cleanly, transparent and smart," Fox said, "not dirty, behind-the-scenes and stupid. The public deserves better."

"This will be a story of redemption," he added. "These people will do it all--the citizens and employees. My job is to free them and make it safe for what they want to do anyway."

Officials continue to urge arsenic tests of well water

Bill Myers, staff reporter

A recent investigation by Clark and Cowlitz counties health officials showed no link between exposure to arsenic and Guillain-Barre Syndrome (GBS), a rare disease.

A summary of the investigation was released March 10 by the Clark County Health Department.

The study, conducted between November 2003 and February 2004, was triggered by public concerns about a possible link between GBS and exposure to unsafe levels of arsenic in well water.

High levels of arsenic were confirmed over recent months in several north Clark County private wells. Unsafe levels have also been recorded in south Cowlitz County private wells.

After learning that several GBS patients live in areas where high well-arsenic levels exist, health officials wanted to determine if arsenic in well water is linked with the rare malady.

Through community outreach efforts, officials identified five individuals in north Clark and south Cowlitz counties diagnosed with GBS since 1990.

Arsenic tests of private wells used by the GBS patients showed zero or very low levels of the poison.

State epidemic intelligence service officer Dr. James Litch said low arsenic findings in wells of GBS patients makes it unlikely that misdiagnosis occurred.

Litch said it is doubtful that a neurologist would confuse GBS with arsenic poisoning.

An evaluation of hospital discharge data on patients diagnosed with GBS from 1990 to 2001 showed 88 cases of the disease in Clark County, four of them identified from the study area in north Clark and south Cowlitz counties.

The hospital data indicates an annual incident rate of 2.5 GBS cases per 100,000 persons in Clark County, and 3.3 cases per 100,000 in north Clark and south Cowlitz counties.

The Health Department summary said results of the hospital study are consistent with a national average of one to four GBS cases annually per 100,000 people.

Arsenic checks urged

Litch said arsenic can cause a variety of other health problems, including liver and bladder cancers.

"We urge people with wells, especially those in areas that have reported high levels of arsenic, to get their water tested," said Litch.

Tests have shown levels of arsenic as high as 2,150 parts of arsenic per billion parts of water (ppb) in private wells between Woodland and Ariel in Cowlitz County and between Woodland and Amboy in Clark County.

Federal Environmental Protection Agency officials say safe drinking water contains less than 10 ppb.

Clark and Cowlitz county health officials are asking citizens to report test results to County Health Departments for area-tracking purposes.

Arsenic test bottles may be obtained, filled and dropped off for laboratory pick-ups at Hi-School Pharmacy stores. Tests cost $35.

FEMALE BANDIT SOUGHT FOR BANK HEISTS

Clark County Sheriff's deputies and FBI agents are seeking a woman in connection with several bank robberies, including a recent hold-up at a Salmon Creek bank.

A Sheriff's report said the suspect on March 5 robbed a Bank of America in an Albertsons Supermarket at 14300 NE 20th Ave.

Described as a slender white female about 40 years old wearing a black-hooded sweater, the woman reportedly passed a note demanding cash to a teller. She left the bank with an undetermined amount of cash.

Sheriff's K-9 dogs tracked the suspect to a parking lot at a nearby Kaiser Permanente facility where the trail ended.

The same woman is believed to be responsible for at least seven recent bank hold-ups in the Portland-Vancouver area.

AMPHITHEATER TRAFFIC ISSUE SLATED FOR PUBLIC AIRING

Proposed solution to send exiting traffic westward requires new hearing

Bill Myers, staff reporter

A proposal that could direct thousands of vehicles westward as they exit from the Amphitheater at Clark County will get a public airing.

Amphitheater and transportation officials who met March 8 adopted a second exit strategy to move exiting vehicles westward on NW 179th St., then southward on NW 11th Ave.

The decision requires modification of a Conditional Use Permit between the County and Amphitheater operator Quincunx. A permit change requires a public hearing and review by a Hearings Examiner.

Amphitheater attorney Randy Printz said exiting traffic would be routed west when attendance exceeds 9,000 patrons, not more than 20 times yearly.

Directing traffic flows westward is currently allowed only in emergencies.

Amphitheater, transportation and law enforcement officials attempting to solve Amphitheater traffic snarls agreed a second exit is needed after well-attended events.

Officials hope the extra exit will clear traffic quickly and keep patrons from sitting for hours in Amphitheater parking lots.

Currently, the primary route for exiting traffic is east on NE 179th St. to I-5.

After studying several options, officials decided to direct exiting traffic west on NW 179th St., south on NW 11th Ave. to NW 149th St., and south along NW 10th Ave. to NW 134th St. for freeway access.

A second choice would route departing traffic west on NW 179th St., south on NW 11th Ave. to NW 149th St., south on NW 21st Ave. to NW 134th St. and freeway access.

Clark County public works transportation specialist Steve Schulte gave a tentative schedule for public involvement. The schedule is contingent upon Quincunx filing an application by March 15 to modify the Permit.

If Quincunx meets the timetable, a notice of application and public hearing could be issued by the County on March 18. Public comments would be invited, with the public comment period closing on April 2.

Following completion of a staff report, a public hearing is tentatively scheduled for Thurs., April 22, before Hearings Examiner Larry Epstein. Location and time will be announced.

Schulte said planners at the Clark County Department of Community Development will confirm scheduling upon receipt of a Quincunx application to modify the Permit.

The County could recommend approval, conditional approval, or deny the Quincunx application, said Schulte.

Transit system

Amphitheater traffic consultant Mark Butorac of Kittelson & Associates said he and transportation officials favor use of NE 78th St. to route buses to and from the Amphitheater.

Buses enroute to the venue would exit I-5 at NE 78th St., travel west to Lakeshore Dr., then north on NW 36th Ave., NW Bliss Rd., and NW 21st Ave. to NW 149th St. Buses would travel east on NW 149th St., north on NW 11th Ave., and east on NE 164th St. to enter the fairgrounds.

After concerts, buses would reverse the route.

Bus loading areas would be located near City Center Parking Garage and Esther Short Park in downtown Vancouver, and at Westfield Shoppingtown, said Butoric.

Amphitheater-bound buses would leave parking areas at 6, 6:30 and 7 p.m. for "front-door" drop-offs at concerts. After concerts, patrons would board buses for return trips to parking areas. Bus rides will be offered free to patrons.

Officials are hopeful that bus ridership will quickly reach 500 patrons.

BG KINDERGARTENS MAY GO TO HALF-DAY SCHEDULE

Marcus Brotherton, staff reporter

Kindergarten students in the Battle Ground School District may see a change in schedules in fall 2004.

Board members March 9 mulled a recommendation to switch from the District's current "full day every other day" model to a "half day every day" approach.

Battle Ground is the only district in Clark County that is on the full day schedule. Officials say few schools nationally are on the system.

Kindergarten teachers and administrators made a proposal one year ago to a District curriculum subcommittee advocating the change.

Presenters said half days produce better classroom consistency. Young students are also less tired with half days, and curriculum is more readily matched to classrooms.

The subcommittee further researched half days and sent a survey June 2003 to District patrons. Data returned did not clearly show a preference for either option, say officials.

Full day proponents say the current system allows more parent-child contact and longer blocks of free choice for social development. Some also enjoy that children don't have to get ready for school every day.

In January, a meeting was held with primary school principals and kindergarten teachers. Most input from this meeting favored the half day approach. A community forum Jan. 22 yielded the same results. About 25 District patrons attended the forum.

The subcommittee's recommendation now is that the District move to a half day schedule beginning fall 2004. Transportation will be provided both ways. Additional bussing costs are estimated at $134,000. Classes will be determined by geographic areas. Some exceptions will be granted.

Board members are expected to make a decision about scheduling at a regularly scheduled meeting on Tues., March 23, at Amboy Middle School, 22115 NE Chelatchie Rd., Amboy.

Orientation sessions for parents of kindergartners are set for late spring at each District school hosting kindergarten.

TWO BG SCHOOLS BOND SYMPOSIUMS SET

Battle Ground school officials invite all to attend one or both of two symposiums regarding the planning and design of potential area schools.

A $55 million bond has been set for May 18. If the bond passes, new schools will be built.

The focus of both symposiums to receive community input and design ideas for two new K-8 schools, as well as the replacement of Amboy Middle, Laurin Middle, Lewisville Middle and Chief Umtuch Primary schools.

The first symposium is set for Sat., March 20, 8 a.m.-4 p.m. at Amboy Middle School, 22115 NE Chelatchie Rd., Amboy. A follow up meeting is set for Mon., March 22, 7-10 p.m., also at Amboy Middle.

Most of the discussion at the first symposium will center around Amboy projects, but input regarding all projects is welcome, say officials.

The second symposium is set for Sat., April 17, 8 a.m.-4 p.m. at Battle Ground High School, 416 W Main St. A follow up meeting is set for Mon., April 19, 7-10 p.m., also at Battle Ground High School.

Much of the discussion at the second symposium will center around the new K-8s, as well as Laurin, Lewisville, and Chief, but input regarding all projects is welcome, say officials.

Representatives from LSW Architects and the District will be on hand at both symposiums.

Anyone interested in being a part of the process is invited to call Vivian Witt, 885-6527, at the District office, to confirm attendance or for more information.

RIDGEFIELD WOMAN MISSING

Ridgefield resident Sierra Maldonado, 20, was reported missing about 1 a.m. March 13 after attending Up Front FX, a Portland dance club.

Maldonado is caucasian, 5'3" tall, 120 pounds, with brown hair and brown eyes. Distinguishing features include a nose ring and navel ring. She has a small scar under her right eye from a childhood dog bite.

According to Sierra's father, Clark County developer Dean Maldonado, friends at the club said Sierra told them she'd be "right back" and headed for the front door. Sierra hasn't been seen since.

Maldonado said Sierra had no jacket, purse or identification with her, they were left behind at the club. She took keys to a friend's car, but the car was not moved from the club that night.

Maldonado said no one, including family members and good friends, had heard from Sierra since that night.

A $1,000 reward is offered for information about Sierra's whereabouts.

Anyone with more information is asked to call the Portland Police Department, (503) 823-0446 or Dean Maldonado, 606-1614.

OBITS:

ZACHARY COWL

Zachary David Cowl, 2, died unexpectedly March 14, 2004, at home in Battle Ground.

Cowl was born Jan. 4, 2002 in Portland.

Survivors include parents Kathryn and Ryan Cowl of Battle Ground, sisters Brianna Cowl and Mallory Cowl, both at home, grandparents David and Linda Ek of Vancouver and Larry and LaVaune Cowl of Yacolt, and great-grandparents Marie Muonio of Vancouver and Leonard Ek of Vancouver.

Funeral services will be held Wed., March 17, 2 p.m., at the Old Apostolic Lutheran Church, 32320 NE Lewisville Highway, Battle Ground, with committal at Elim Cemetery, Brush Prairie. Casket will be open Tues., March 16, 6:30-9 p.m., at the Old Apostolic Lutheran Church, 16603 NE 142nd Ave., Brush Prairie.

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

Calvin F. Ourkerk, 72, died March 12, 2004 in Amboy.

Ourkerk was born June 5, 1931 in Philip, SD, worked as a carpenter's superintendent in general construction, and lived n Battle Ground for two months.

Ourkerk enjoyed fishing, gambling and his family. When younger, he enjoyed hunting.

Survivors include widow Sylvia Van Ourkerk, at home, daughter Valerie Gardner of Amboy, sons Calvin Van Ourkerk of Israel, and Victor Van Ourkerk and Christopher Van Ourkerk, both of California, step-son Robert Jones Jr. of California, sisters Marian Svilar and Flora Dawson, both of Wyoming, and Elaine Eleeson of Kansas, brothers Robert Van Ourkerk and Donald Van Ourkerk, both of Wisconsin, and William Van Ourkerk of South Dakota, 12 grandchildren and five great-grandchildren.

Graveside services will take place Fri., March 19, 1 p.m., at All Souls Cemetery, Vallejo, California, with Layne's Funeral Home, Battle Ground, in charge of arrangements.

LARRY FRY

Larry Royal Fry, 47, died in an industrial accident March 11, 2004 in Portland.

Fry was born Aug. 22, 1956 in Wenatchee, worked as a foreman in construction, and lived in Clark County since 1978. He suffered a head injury while working on an expansion of Oregon Health Sciences University, Portland. He was employed by John L. Jersey & Son since 1978.

Fry moved from Wenatchee to Vancouver in 1978, and to Battle Ground in 1981.

Fry liked to fish, hunt, listen to music and spend time with his family. His favorite place of worship was the East Fork of the Lewis River. Family members remember him as a man with a big heart. He had many friends who turned to him in time of need.

Fry was preceded in death by his father, Leroy Fry, in 1994, sister Deborah Fry in 2001 and brother Eldon Fry at birth. Survivors include son Dalton Fry of Battle Ground, daughter Nicole Fry of Vancouver, grandson Blake N. Fry of Vancouver, brothers Jerry Fry, Jim Fry and Gerald Fry, all of Wenatchee, and sisters Joyce Coy and Norma Tate, both of Wenatchee.

Services will be held Wed., March 17, 10 a.m., at Memorial Gardens Funeral Chapel, Vancouver, followed by a reception at the Doubletree Hotel Jantzen Beach, Portland. Private inurnment at Pioneer Cemetery, Ridgefield, with be conducted at a later date.

Memorial Gardens Funeral Chapel is in charge of arrangements. A fund for the Fry family has been established at US Bank.

ERLAND HILL

Erland Victor Hill, 83, died March 11, 2004 in Vancouver.

Hill was born Dec. 25, 1920 in Hockinson, graduated from Battle Ground High School in 1938, and was a longtime resident of Clark County.

Hill joined the Navy in 1945, and received training at Washington State University. He earned a bachelor of science degree in mechanical engineering from the University of Washington, and officer training at Notre Dame University in Indiana. He served in the Naval Reserves.

Hill operated his own business as a consulting engineer and land surveyor. His contributions included subdivisions, earthen dams, water ski lake and mapping surveys of I-205 from 134th St. to the Columbia River.

Hill enjoyed hunting and gardening. He had been a member of the Elks and Rotary.

Hill was preceded in death by his wife, Edna, in 2001. Survivors include sons Dan Hill of Nevada, Terry Hill of Idaho and Jim Hill of Battle Ground, sister Doris Coles of Vancouver, step-daughter Sharon Walker of Vancouver, 12 grandchildren and 14 great-grandchildren.

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

WARREN BERG

Warren A. Berg, 90, died March 11, 2004 in Vancouver.

Berg was born March 19, 1914 in Stanchfield, MN, worked as a clipper operator for International Paper, and lived in the Vancouver area for 44 years.

Berg loved spending time with his family, particularly family reunions. He was proficient in computers and loved being on the cutting edge. He enjoyed walking, traveling by car or plane, and he loved to drive. In his younger years, he enjoyed going dune buggy riding on the Oregon coast with his children.

Berg was preceded in death by his wife, Mabel Berg, in 1999. Survivors include son Robert Berg of Camas, daughters Eileen Costuck of Vancouver and Nancy Wooldridge of California, seven grandchildren and eight great-grandchildren.

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

CEDRIC SMITHLINE

Cedric Clair Smithline, 90, died March 6, 2004 in Battle Ground.

Smithline was born Sept. 20, 1913 in the Manor area of Vancouver, and lived in Clark County his entire life. He worked for Alcoa for 25 years, retiring in 1975.

Smithline graduated from Battle Ground High School in 1932. He worked as a carpenter and in the construction of Bonneville Dam. He was a member of the Civilian Conservation Corps during World War II and helped build the Sunset Campground. He was a member of the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers and Manor Grange. He enjoyed farming, and raising beans and cattle.

Smithline was preceded in death by his wife, Evangeline Rose Smithline, in 1988. Survivors include sons Robert Smithline of Ridgefield, Douglas Smithline and Philip Smithline, both of Battle Ground, and Charles Smithline of Brush Prairie, daughters Barbara Thompson of Vancouver, Karen Nutter and Janice Smithline, both of Battle Ground, Rose Stockham of Wisconsin and Joyce White of Oregon, sisters Olive Cotton and Arlene Kelman, both of Brush Prairie, 32 grandchildren and 37 great-grandchildren.

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