BOWS ON LA CENTER BRIDGE HONOR TROOPS

High School student leaders line bridge with yellow ribbons

Bill Myers, staff reporter

La Center High School student leaders tied a corridor of yellow bows on each side of the La Center Bridge last week.

Associated Student Body leaders from the school adorned the ribbons on bridge railings March 15 to recognize, honor, congratulate and welcome home troops deployed around the world.

Student president Lizzie Perrott suggested the act at a city council meeting last month to honor troops.

Council members authorized Public Works director Jeff Sarvis to spend $225 for bows and ties.

Student activity coordinator Stephen Taylor helped with the project.

Taylor has a personal stake in wishing troops well and welcoming them as they come home. His dad serves in Kuwait with the U.S. Navy.

VANCOUVER WOMAN NAMED MISS CLARK COUNTY

Rachel Kirschenmann of Vancouver was named Miss Clark County at the annual Miss Clark County Scholarship Pageant held March 13 in Vancouver.

Kirschenmann, 20, is a student at Clark College. She prevailed over eight other entrants in the sold-out show.

Kirschenmann did a jazz dance routine as her talent entry. Her platform was on fitness and nutrition. Kirschenmann said she is careful about her diet, focusing on whole grains.

Kirschenmann grew up in Clark County and graduated from Fort Vancouver High School in 2001. After one more term at Clark College, she plans to attend a Christian university for a degree in psychology and then a master's degree in counseling.

Kirschenmann will be one of 22 contestants for the title of Miss Washington during the state pageant July 2-3 in Tacoma.

Kirschenmann works at the Gap at Vancouver Mall.

Kirschenmann is the daughter of Stan and Bobbi Kay Kirschenmann of Vancouver. Kelly Backous was named first runner-up, Lindsay Price second runner-up, and Heather Laible third runner-up.

Shaina Bone won a scholarship to the International Air Academy. Three entrants tied for Miss Congeniality--Rebecca Rice, Shaina Bone and Heather Laible.

Kelly Backous was selected as most photogenic. Non-finalist interview winners were Shaina Laible and Rebecca Rice. Melissa Potts was judged to have the best non-finalist talent with a dance routine.

JOHN DAVIS WILL SEEK POST IN STATE LEGISLATURE

John T. Davis, former superintendent of the Hockinson School District, has announced plans to run for the state senate from the 17th District.

Davis, a Democrat, will face Republican incumbent Don Benton.

"It is my intention to represent the people of the 17th District, all the people, as our state Constitution mandates, as a state senator," said Davis. "We have not had that kind of representation in this District for the past 10 years."

After retiring as superintendent in Hockinson, Davis served as assistant superintendent for Kelso Public School, assistant dean at the University of Connecticut, and principal of Neah Bay Schools. He was appointed by Gov. Gary Locke as interim superintendent at the Washington School for the Deaf. He has been an adjunct professor at Washington State University for over a decade.

Davis received endorsement from former state senator Al Bauer. "John is a longtime, substantial and contributing member to our entire community, and a great leader in education and school programs," said Bauer. "He related well to people and supports the goals and objectives of the broader community."

Bauer, along with Clark County commissioner Judie Stanton, will co-chair Davis' advisory committee.

Davis can be reached at 901-3583.

RICH MELNICK NAMED DISTRICT COURT JUDGE

Senior Clark County deputy prosecuting attorney Richard Melnick has been appointed by the Clark County commissioners to fill the vacant position on the Clark County District Court.

Melnick has been with the Clark County prosecuting attorney's office since 1980. He started the prosecutor's domestic violence intervention program and helped develop the drug court for Clark County Superior Court.

Melnick has been a member of the adjunct faculty at Clark College. He lived in Hockinson.

"The county is fortunate to have so many highly qualified candidates, people with outstanding talent and legal credentials," said county commissioner Betty Sue Morris, chair of the county board of commissioners. "In making our final selection, we were especially interested in his extensive appellate court experience. We believe he will be an excellent judge."

District court judges hear misdemeanor criminal cases, small claims matters and traffic offenses. They serve four year terms. To retain his position, Melnick will have to run for election this fall and again in 2006.

WALT BASSETT ON THE MEND

Walt Bassett, formerly a Battle Ground resident who now splits time between homes in Vancouver and Desert Hot Springs, California, is recovering from a fall that put him in the hospital for four days.

Bassett, who operated the Battle Ground Plaza Shopping Center for more than 25 years until selling his interest in 1998, said he was leaving an RV park club house following a musical performance, and stumbled on the steps.

Bassett, 75, struck his head in the fall. He was unconscious for about a minute and lost blood.

Ten stitches were required to close the wound on his forehead. He was in intensive care for two days.

Bassett said both his eyes were black, and his left eye was closed following the Feb. 28 mishap. As of March 16, one eye was still black, he said.

His vision has returned as the recovery continues, said Bassett.

Walt and Vera Bassett plan to return to Vancouver this week. Cards may be sent to 3104 SE Bay Point Dr., Vancouver, WA 98683.

YACOLT COMMODITIES NOW DISTRIBUTED IN BG

Government commodities distributed to low income families in the Yacolt area are now available in Battle Ground.

Elaine Hertz, who manages the North County Community Food Bank in Battle Ground, said only 20-25 families picked up commodities in Yacolt.

The North County Community Food Bank had provided commodities in Yacolt since 1996.

The distribution in Yacolt was transferred to Battle Ground beginning in March.

The North County Community Food Bank, located at 17 NE 3rd Ave., Battle Ground, distributes commodities Mon.-Fri., the first three weeks of each month, 9-11:15 a.m., and 1:30-3:15 p.m., for people living in zip codes 98601, 98604, 98606, 98622, 98674 and 98675.

Hertz said about 230 families obtain commodities through the Food Bank each month. Beginning this month, families receive twice as many commodities as in the past.

Information, Elaine Hertz, 687-5007.

PUD DEFERS PLANNED RATE HIKE

Commissioners of the Cowlitz County Public Utility District decided March 16 to defer until Oct. 1 a 2.5 percent rate increase that was scheduled to go into effect April 1. Officials said the rate increase could be delayed even further.

Utility officials had tied the rate increase to a plan by the federal Bonneville Power Administration to increase its wholesale rates this spring.

Dave Andrew, spokesman for the Cowlitz Utility, said Bonneville has announced a lower than expected rate increase, saving the Utility about $2 million this year.

"This reduction in Bonneville's rate increase has enabled us to defer our increase," said Ned Piper, Utility commissioner. "We recognize that deferring a 2.5 percent rate increase isn't a big savings, but it reflects the commission's desire to do what it can to lesson the impact of higher electric rates on the community and the local economy."

Andrew said the average Cowlitz residential customer uses about 1,500 kilowatt-hours of electricity per month which costs $76.80 before taxes.

In 2002 the average cost for all residential customers of public utility districts in Washington was $99 for the same amount of electricity, or about 29 percent higher than in Cowlitz County today, said Andrew.

"We are pleased that our planned rate increase can be deferred," said Utility general manager Denny Robinson.

"But it is important to note that Bonneville's wholesale rates are still projected to increase in October 2004 which suggests the small increase will likely still go into effect later this year."

The Cowlitz Utility increased its rates by 30 percent in October 2000, by an average of 42.6 percent in October 2001, and by 4.5 percent in October 2003.

"Northwest utilities are working hard to help Bonneville continue to identify ways to cut costs with the hope we can avoid any rate increases in 2004," added Robinson.

Cowlitz County Public Utility District acquires about 90 percent of its residential, commercial and industrial wholesale power supply from Bonneville.

Robinson said Bonneville could cut its costs by spilling less water in July and August for fish recovery. "Regional studies show that Bonneville can realize annual savings of $75 million by ending the Summer Spill program without compromising the recovery of endangered fall chinook salmon," said Robinson.

Work to start on Swift

Work will begin in early April to remove debris in the tailrace of the Swift powerhouse that was left when the Swift Power canal collapsed in April 2002.

That power canal is located on the North Fork of the Lewis River east of Cougar.

The first effort will be to remove about 120,000 cubic yards of dirt and rocks deposited by the collapse. That material, said Andrew, will be stockpiled in the canal area for use later.

The material will be removed by Tapani Underground of Battle Ground in a contract valued at $919,130.

Andrew said a contract for mechanical and maintenance work on the Swift powerhouse will be awarded April 23. Bids will be sought soon for reconstruction of the canal, said Andrew.

If all goes as planned, the Cowlitz Utility will get power from the rebuilt Swift No. 2 powerhouse by the end of 2005, said Andrew.

Repairs are expected to cost between $85 and $100 million, said Andrew. Lawsuits regarding insurance coverage are underway.

The Swift power project was constructed in the late 1950s, and has provided about 15 percent of residential power in Cowlitz County.

STATE ALTERS HIGH SCHOOL GRAD TEST PLAN

With a stroke of a pen March 18, Gov. Gary Locke made changes in the way students will be tested to qualify for graduation from high school.

Current state law requires students to pass the 10th grade Washington Assessment of Student Learning (WASL) exam to qualify for graduation.

When Locke signed Third Engrossed Substitute House Bill 2195 last week, students gained some flexibility in passing the test.

Passage of the test as a requisite for graduation affects the class of 2008 and subsequent classes.

According to Shirley Skidmore, director of communications for the state Office of the Superintendent of Public Instruction, three changes are made in the WASL system:

** Those who fail the test in 10th grade will have four subsequent opportunities to retake any or all of the exam.

The test involves reading, writing and mathematics, and will include science in 2010.

The test is given in spring of the sophomore year. Opportunities to retake could take place in a student's junior and even senior years.

** Students who are close to passing the test, but do not pass, will be able to appeal.

Skidmore said details of such an appeal will be developed over the next few months and must be approved by the legislature next year.

Appeals could involve additional testing, said Skidmore, or alternate means for measuring learning such as a portfolio of student work examined by an appeals panel.

** Changes are also made in the way special education students approach the WASL exam, said Skidmore.

Parents and educators can develop Individual Education Plans and agree on individualized assessment for special education students, said Skidmore. In this case, special education students would still receive a diploma but their official transcripts would include a Certificate of Individual Achievement rather than a Certificate of Academic Achievement.

Skidmore said the changes were not designed to water down the WASL examination system.

"The whole intent of the WASL is to raise expectations," said Skidmore, "so that students don't leave high school unprepared. The test focuses on fundamental skills in core subjects."

Even with the changes, said Skidmore, some students might not graduate from high school if they do not pass the WASL test.

Charter schools on horizon

Locke also approved a law that allows charter schools in Washington. There are presently none in the state, said Skidmore.

The new law allows the formation of up to 45 charter schools over the next six years, not more than 15 of which can be created in the next three years.

Charter schools are public schools open to all students who apply, subject to space. They receive public funding but are not under the direction of school districts.

Skidmore said charter schools have more flexibility and are not subject to a variety of state rules. They can operate longer days, year-round and on Saturdays. Teachers are not members of a local union.

Charter schools are operated by non-profit organizations, said Skidmore. Students do not pay a tuition.

The law does not allow the conversion of existing schools to charter schools.

Skidmore expects applications for the creation of charter schools will reach the state by summer, and classes could begin next year.

Skidmore can be reached at (360) 725-6014.

CARRIE HAZEN'S LIFE ENDS AT 108 YEARS

Carrie Hazen's long life came to an end last week at 108 years of age.

Hazen's life spanned three centuries. She lived all of it in Clark County.

Carrie Elsie (Buchanan) Hazen was born Aug. 23, 1895, at the former La Center Hospital which is now being remodeled into a library to parents David and Maggie (Walden) Buchanan.

Hazen's father died when she was 3 years old. Her mother remarried William Fowler.

Memories of events in the pioneering days remained with her throughout her life.

At seven years of age, she was sent home from school when smoke from the 1902 Yacolt burn blackened the sky and created so much darkness that chickens went to roost.

Hazen lived through the horse and buggy days and saw man reach the moon, noted her son Wayne Hazen, 81.

Hazen attended Farther Lake area schools and, at age 20, married childhood friend Homer Hazen.

The couple had five children, Dorothy, Harvey, Lynn, Wayne and Dale. Three survive her.

Son Wayne lived next door to his mother on Hazen Road, part of the original 160-acre homestead purchased from an original homesteader by Maggie Buchanan's adopted father, Thomas McClellan, in 1870.

Hazen considered the McClellans her grandparents because they helped raise her and her sister, Lora.

In the late 1800s, McClellan built the clap-board house in which Wayne Hazen lives today. Carrie Hazen had lived in the farmhouse her father built in 1897 just one year before his death.

McClellan served as county commissioner 1882-1884.

Still visible next to Hazen Road is a former wagon path that was once an Indian trail.

Hazen worked alongside her husband on the homestead, recalled Wayne Hazen.

"She milked cows and bucked hay and did all of the things that needed to be done on a farm," said Hazen.

Hazen said his mother had been a social person her entire life, serving as a charter member of the Fargher Lake Grange and attending various north county events and social occasions.

"I think that is the reason she was a Grange member," said Hazen, "so she could talk and visit with everyone."

Hazen had enjoyed kicking up her heels at Fourth of July dances when talented farmers played fiddles.

Hazen loved to ride horses. She road a horse to Sunday school and church in Amboy, and on errands to the View store. A photograph hanging in Carrie Hazen's dining room shows her on horseback on her 90th birthday.

Carrie and Homer Hazen sold milk to the Battle Ground cheese factory. They were married 55 years until Homer passed away in 1968.

In later years, Carrie Hazen took two vitamins and heart medication daily. And she was "not above having a shot of schnapps or a beer or a mixed drink on occasion," said Wayne Hazen.

At 100 years old, Hazen still split her own firewood with a sledge and wedge because she could never hit the same spot twice with an axe, she had said.

In 1995, Hazen said she had no longevity secrets, but advised, "live today and let tomorrow bring what it will."

Hazen was interred at View Cemetery, La Center, with the Vancouver Funeral Chapel in charge of arrangements.

Farmers who suffered losses due to dry weather and heat in 2003 are eligible for emergency loans through the federal Farm Service Agency (FSA).

The U.S. Department of Agriculture has designated Clark and Cowlitz counties as a primary agricultural disaster area for the hot and dry weather that occurred May 1 through Aug. 31, 2003.

Farmers in Skamania, Wahkiakum, Island, San Juan and Skagit counties are also eligible, along with farmers in counties contiguous to the disaster counties--Chelan, Klickitat, Lewis, Okanogan, Pacific, Snohomish, Whatcom and Yakima.

Family farmers who suffered losses may qualify for loans with 3.75 percent interest and payment terms up to 40 years with real estate security. FSA will accept loan applications until Nov. 9, 2004.

To be eligible for loans, farmers must be unable to obtain credit elsewhere at reasonable terms and rates.

Jeff Peterson of the Farm Service Agency in Chehalis, said heat and drought losses may include slow-growing pasture, over-ripe hay, and damage to berries crops.

Peterson described such losses as something weather-related that reduced the income a farmer would normal earn.

The loan program is available only to "family-sized" farms. Peterson said the definition of a "family-sized" farm is somewhat subjective.

Officials said they will consider each application on its own merits, taking into account the extent of losses, loan security and repayment ability.

Disaster loans are handled through the Chehalis office of FSA. Information, (360) 748-9997.

Marcus Brotherton, staff reporter

Ridgefield School District officials held a public hearing March 11 to address plans to deal with short and long-term facility needs.

About 20 people attended the forum.

Community members expressed unanimous support for new schools and for using voter-supported measures to fund new schools.

Superintendent Mary Vagner gave an overview of various needs within the District: purchasing land, constructing new school buildings, modernizing existing buildings, upgrading equipment, improving school grounds and several large-scale maintenance tasks.

Board members are not yet agreed as to which direction is best.

Some want to hold a bond election as soon as possible, possibly in September. If approved, the vote would secure land across the street from Ridgefield High School.

In this scenario, a second election would be held within several months to one year to vote on new school construction.

The idea behind two propositions is to "test the waters" of public opinion, say board members. If the first bond passes, school officials know the community is behind the plan.

"If people don't pass a $5 million bond," said board member Chris Swindell, "they'll never pass a $25-$30 million bond. Two bonds gets a foot in the door and a commitment from the community."

Other Board members advocate holding one bond election as soon as possible to purchase land and build new schools.

Public input is sought for short and long-term facility solutions, to help facilitate discussions and fundraise for potential bond elections.

No question of more growth

Enrollment in Ridgefield schools has risen more than 300 students in the past 10 years. Ridgefield currently educates about 1,850 students in four schools.

School Board members have sanctioned several companies for growth projections. Some are used to obtain more exact numbers, which is hard to do, say officials, especially when projecting 20-year enrollment numbers.

One short-term projection expects another 185 students by 2008. Five new subdivisions in Ridgefield and five in Clark County in District territory are poised for development.

Long-term projections appear more staggering.

By 2023, the District could add as many as 5,000 students, yielding a District-wide count of more than 6,800 students.

"[Ridgefield is facing] a huge challenge to keep up with the student population," said board member Joe Leadingham. "We're already behind the 8-ball."

Interested community members are invited to phone the District, 887-0200.

WORK WILL CLOSE LAKE BOAT RAMPS

Bill Myers, staff reporter

Work to remove debris in Yale Reservoir will force water level draw-downs and closure of reservoir boat ramps during March and April.

According to Cowlitz County Public Utility District and PacifiCorp officials, workers will remove 120,000 cubic yards of rock and soil debris that flowed into Yale Reservoir after an April 2002 embankment failure in Swift Canal.

Officials say debris removal is required for restoration of utility operations.

"Our plans are to minimize the amount of time it will take to complete needed debris removal work," said Cowlitz County Public Utility District spokesman Dave Andrew.

Swift Reservoir water levels are not expected to be high enough to launch boats until the weekend of April 24.

Boat launch facilities at Yale will be unavailable during periods when the water level is below minimum launch elevations.

Officials say Yale Park Boat Ramp will likely be inaccessible March 25 through April 24.

Minimum launch elevations at Yale Reservoir are 475.5 feet at Beaver Bay Campground, 486 feet at Cougar Campground, 472 feet at Yale Park Boat Launch and 478 feet at Saddle Dam Park.

PacifiCorp officials say Merwin Reservoir facilities will remain open during most of the draw-down period.

Boaters can check reservoir levels at the National Weather Service web site for Lewis River Reservoir Levels: www.wrh.noaa.gov/Portland/public hydro/lc swwa.html

Speelyai improvements scheduled

PacifCorp officials say work to extend the Speelyai Boat Ramp in Merwin Reservoir is expected to begin after Labor Day.

Proposed ramp improvements will allow boaters and anglers better access to the lake when water levels are low.

Marcus Brotherton, staff reporter

A group of Battle Ground citizens are working the phones until a special election May 18 to find out how District patrons will vote on a proposed $55 million school bond.

About 50 area residents comprise Citizens For Better Schools, a promotional and information committee comprised of area parents, grandparents, retirees, teachers and business leaders.

By law, school district officials cannot promote bonds, they can only provide information. Citizen committees conduct promotion work.

Committee members set up shop Mon.-Thurs., 6-8 p.m., in the Heron Building in Battle Groud to canvass District voters. Voter lists are public record.

So far, phone calls reveal results will be close to the 60 percent needed to pass the bond, said committee co-chair Alex Mintz, but about one-fourth to one-third of people surveyed are currently undecided.

Mintz said undecided votes are always key in moving an election either way. About 47 percent of eligible voters voted in the District's last election, which was for a levy. The levy barely inched over the 60 percent needed to pass.

The citizen's group "doesn't want to disrupt people's lives" with their canvass work, Mintz said. Mostly, the goal is to find out where people are at, to offer additional information about the bond if needed, and to help identify which district voters are in, if needed.

Callers use a script, identifying themselves, asking patrons if they are familiar with the bond, and if they've made a decision on how they'll vote. If patrons are undecided, committee members offer additional information if requested.

The group began telephoning shortly after the bond was approved by the school board. They plan to call voters twice, once now and again just before ballots are mailed out.

By mid-March the group surveyed about 3,000 of the 24,000 eligible voters in the District. Battle Ground's school boundaries extend from Yale in the north to Orchards in the south. About 12,000 students are educated in the District.

Mintz said some people toward the southern Brush Prairie and Orchards areas believe they're in the Vancouver School District. Helping voters identify their correct district is part of the goal.

Terry Burrell, an art teacher at Maple Grove Primary School, is one committee member making phone calls.

Burrell believes the only way for Battle Ground to move forward is if the bond is passed.

"If we don't have more schools what are the options?" Burrell said. "More kids are coming to the area--you've got to put them somewhere."

District records show enrollment has increased more than 3,100 students in the past 10 years. In the next six years, enrollment may grow another 1,600 students. One study shows Battle Ground may add as many as 5,500 students by 2023, making it the fastest growing school district in Clark County.

All of the District's 5-8 schools and most of the K-4 schools currently exceed student capacity standards, say officials. The District currently has 104 portables which house about 2,500 students.

Battle Ground voters have not okayed a bond since 1993.

If the bond passes this May, two new K-8 schools will be built.

Land will be purchased for a new north county high school site.

Laurin Middle, Lewisville Middle, portions of Amboy Middle and Chief Umtuch Primary schools will be demolished and rebuilt.

The Battle Ground High School drama classroom will be replaced.

Several major maintenance projects will take place involving heating and cooling systems and refurbishing District Stadium and Prairie High School's auditorium and track.

The bond will add about 68 cents per $1,000 of assessed value to property owners annual taxes for a total bond rate of $1.33 per $1,000. For owners of a $200,000 home, this means an extra $136 annually, or about $11 monthly.

For more information about the bond, contact committee co-chairs Alex Mintz, 687-3217 or Sue Cranke, 687-1813, District offices, 885-5337, or visit the District's website: www.bgsd.k12.wa.us

FRIENDS WED AFTER THIRD TIME DOWN AISLE

MEEK-HEUVEL

Heidi Wallenborn, news director

James Heuvel and Janis Meek met when they were both teenagers in 1974.

James and Janis' brother, Clark Jr., were close friends, so James visited the home often, also forming friendships with Janis and her twin sister, Joyce.

When Clark Jr. married in 1976, James and Janis walked down the aisle arm-in-arm as bridesmaid and groomsman.

When Joyce married in 1977, James and Janis walked down the aisle together as maid of honor and best man.

It wasn't until Feb. 7 of this year that the couple walked down the aisle as bride and groom.

Meek, a Vancouver resident and the daughter of Betty and Clark Meek Sr., both deceased, married Heuvel in a ceremony at Hockinson Community Church.

The bride is a 1975 graduate of Evergreen High School and attended Clark College. She is employed as a licensed agent with Paul Elson State Farm Insurance of Vancouver.

The bride was attended by Kimberly Anderson of Woodland and sister Joyce Barratt of Seattle.

The groom, a Brush Prairie resident and the son of Hellen Heuvel of Vancouver and John Heuvel, deceased, is a 1974 graduate of Camas High School and attended Northwest College in Kirkland. He is employed as a funeral director with Memorial Gardens in Vancouver.

Heuvel was attended by groomsmen Kenneth Robinson of Nampa, ID and Neil Barratt of Seattle.

After a honeymoon in Whistler, British Columbia, Canada, the couple is at home in Orchards.

MANUFACTURER IN BG TO OPEN IN JUNE

Heidi Wallenborn, news director

A manufacturing/warehouse facility at 1721 SE Grace Ave., Battle Ground, will open in June, according to business owner Larry Kopkie.

Kopkie, a Yacolt resident, owns Shoot Suit Inc., Detro Manufacturing and R & H Products of Orchards.

Kopkie fabricates specialty clothing for painters and automotive workers through Shoot Suit, automotive tack cloth through Detro Manufacturing, and hand sanding blocks for auto, marine and woodworkers through R & H Products.

The businessman combined and relocated his companies to Battle Ground because the location is closer to his home and there was no room to expand at the present work site in Orchards off NE 117th Ave., he said.

The $1.4 million, 26,000 square-foot building on 3 acres will house all three companies as well as lease about 13,000 square feet for warehouse and office space.

Heidi Wallenborn, news director

A colorful, machine-stitched quilt top that was to be raffled as a Battle Ground Rose Float fundraiser is missing.

The top, made by Mary Goodnight, was put into a plastic sack with cotton batting and backing at the Battle Ground Chamber of Commerce building Feb. 14 and left for pick-up by Jan McCrary who was to finish putting the quilt together.

It was discovered missing at a Rose Float committee meeting March 13, said member Pat Wiwel.

"Mary thought Jan was picking it up, but Jan didn't know it was there," Wiwel said.

The plain plastic sack was left somewhere in the warehouse and may have been there during the time of a week-long rummage sale Feb. 26-29 to benefit the North County Community Food Bank.

"We're afraid it may have been sold or taken by accident," said Wiwel.

The quilt is one of two that are annually auctioned during the Harvest Days event the third weekend of July, said Wiwel.

Each quilt typically raises about $2,000 in raffle ticket sales toward the cost of the Rose Float, which can be $15,000 and more, she said.

The pattern is called Log Cabin Barn Raising and is done in a variety of bold colors offset by creamy colors in rows.

If anyone finds the quilt or has information regarding it's whereabouts, contact Pat Wiwel at 687-2892 or Terri Tweedell at 687-1510.

BG PARKS ELECTION WILL BE BY MAIL

Heidi Wallenborn, news director

Battle Ground council members decided March 15 to conduct an April 27 election on parks funding as vote-by-mail.

"It boils down to what we think will get the most voter turnout," said Battle Ground mayor John Idsinga at the March 15 council meeting. "Personally, I like to go to the polls, but new traditions have come about."

After deliberating about 30 minutes, the five council members present agreed on the mail-in election. Mike Ciraulo and Lisa Walters were absent.

"The more convenient we make it, the more people will get out and vote," said deputy mayor Sandra Barnes. "It's easy to forget or have meetings to attend. Maybe we'll get a better turnout."

At stake is a proposed property tax increase for city park improvements and maintenance in the form of two measures: (1) to approve 45 cents per $1,000 assessed valuation on property for 20 years to generate $7.8 million to improve and construct parks in the city limits, and (2) to okay a 50 cents per $1,000 property tax increase to maintain those parks. If approved, the levy lid lift would bring in $360,000 the first year and increase by 1 percent over the next 20 years.

If both measures are approved, 95 cents per $1,000 value will be tacked onto property taxes. For a $160,000 home, the annual cost would be about $152, or about $13 per month added to existing taxes.

What concerns council members and city staff is timing between generating enthusiasm for parks and when ballots will be mailed.

City attorney Brian Wolfe said ballots will be sent to voters in early April, leaving only a few weeks for park proponents to knock on doors. "Now is the time to campaign and get the word out," Wolfe said. "There isn't much time."

City Parks Advisory Board chair Tom Schultz said Board members and a citizens committee are "anxious to get going. I know we don't have much time."

Details, details

Although city officials are asking citizens to pay the lion's share of the proposed $11.6 million city-wide parks project, they are willing to foot part of the bill from other funding sources.

The remaining $4 million will come from Park Improvement Fees paid by developers, and Real Estate Excise Taxes.

Dubbed a "grass-roots" project by Idsinga and others, a 30-member citizens' committee worked with Parks Advisory Board members and consultant Otak Inc. over the last 18 months to generate a plan.

After several recommendations, council members chose improvements in nearly every city park.

The two largest projects would be Remy Property on SW 20th Ave. for $4.3 million, and Fairgrounds Park on the east end of the city for $2.6 million.

Improvements to Remy include site development of the mostly wetland, 80-acre parcel, parking lots, trails, baseball diamonds, a skateboard/soccer area, restrooms, concession stands, playground equipment, benches, lighting, bleachers and dugouts.

Fairgrounds Park would be improved with a pavilion, stage, restrooms, better parking and access, a play set, town commons and entry plaza fountain.

City manager Eric Holmes recommended mailing informational fliers to every household in the city about the time ballots are sent out.

Council members agreed. "We need time to build our case to the public," Idsinga said. "We need momentum."

Project over-budget

Heidi Wallenborn, news director

By the end of June, E Main St. from N Parkway Ave. to SE Grace Ave. in Battle Ground will have a fresh appearance from a nearly $130,000 project.

Rather than its stark, drab look, Old Town will be freshened with trees, benches, planter boxes, trash receptacles and scored concrete pedestrian crossings in strategic places along the seven-block stretch.

City officials received a $50,000 Community Development Block Grant in August 2003 with the stipulation that it be spent before June 2004. The remainder of expenses will come from city coffers.

The project will cost about $20,000 more than originally planned because the lowest bid was $99,000 rather than the $77,000 planned for, said public works director Sam Adams at a March 15 council meeting.

The price went up because of the cost of traffic control to avoid closing the street for one month and because the cost of concrete is higher, said Adams.

"We could go back and take things out, such as street trees," Adams told council members, "that would save about $20,000, or we could allow complete closure of E Main St. [while work is done]."

Council members balked at closing the street and eliminating trees.

"There are certain plans about how it is to look," said deputy mayor Sandra Barnes. "Don't skimp on benches or trees."

Barnes recommended taking extra 2003 revenue from the budget to make up the deficit.

"Since we have extra money, let's use it," she said. "Sometimes things cost more than we anticipate."

Mayor John Idsinga said he wants to focus on Old Town improvements.

"The bottom line is economic development there," he said. "We have stores, we're looking forward to a train coming to this community. It's a unique area."

Council members also discussed throwing more money into the project to spend on special signs or banners announcing the entrance to Old Town to set it apart.

City manager Eric Holmes said staff will re-tool the numbers and bring it back as a "change order" and budget amendment for council members to consider at a study session Mon., March 22, 7 p.m., city hall, 109 SW 1st St.

Marcus Brotherton, staff reporter

Funeral services were held March 19 for Sierra Nicole Maldonado, 20, a Ridgefield resident who was reported missing after attending a Portland underage dance club March 12.

Maldonado's body was found late in the afternoon March 15 beneath the Broadway Bridge on the west shore of the Willamette River in Portland.

Portland Police officials say the cause of death is still undetermined. Foul play has not been ruled out.

According to Sierra's father, Clark County developer Dean Maldonado, circumstances behind Sierra's disappearance are extremely odd.

Friends at the club, Up Front FX, said Sierra told them she'd be "right back" before heading for the front door. Sierra had no jacket, purse or identification with her. She had keys to a friend's car, but the car was not moved.

That was the last anyone, including close friends and family, heard from her.

Maldonado said it was out of character for Sierra to be away for any amount of time. She was devoted to her horses and dogs and was always responsible in caring for them.

Christina Bryant was a close friend of Sierra in eighth and ninth grades at View Ridge Middle and Ridgefield High schools. They played on the same basketball team.

Bryant said Sierra was confident, always smiling and well liked.

CLEAN-UP STEPS TAKEN AT PORT OF RIDGEFIELD

Heidi Wallenborn, news director

After two years of setbacks, Port of Ridgefield officials are finally a few weeks away from pulling underground contamination out of the Lake River Industrial Park site at 111 Division St.

Preliminary tests show the $9 million extraction and treatment system is working as it should, said Port chemical engineer Karl Jolin.

In early March, workers turned on four extraction wells to get a "slug of dirty water into the system," said Port executive director Brent Grening.

About 15,000 gallons was sucked out of the ground that first day at about 50 gallons per minute.

In the first pull, the contaminated water looked like tea, Grening said, with contaminant in 21 parts per million.

The treatment system cleaned the contaminant to one-half part per million. The water was clear, Grening said.

Pacific Wood Treating Corp., a former Port tenant at the site from the 1960s through the early 1990s, contaminated more than 40 acres with wood treating chemicals.

The company declared bankruptcy in 1993 and left the site with environmental problems.

Although above-ground contamination was removed and destroyed, a thick, soupy mass of pentachlorophenol, creosote and copper chromium arsenate remains underground and has spread to the outer edges of the Port's property and threatens nearby Carty Lake on the National Wildlife Refuge.

State Department of Ecology officials have set wells on the edges of the lake to monitor contaminate levels.

Port fired Bakersfield company and took over job

Steamtech Environmental Services of Bakersfield, CA was hired in 2001 to clean the site using a steam extraction process. They installed the Port's elaborate system in spring 2002.

The company's contract was terminated in late 2002, Grening said.

"They were not performing well or meeting the agreement," he said. "They went over budget and could not account for some expenses when we asked. We decided to restructure the project and move operations in-house. We have direct project control and are saving money. We have supervisory and budget control."

The elaborate extraction and treatment system runs like a separate utility owned by the Port, Grening said.

Employees and subcontractors have been hired in order to construct a team made up of a set of people with several skills, he said.

Currently, the system is tested weekly, with about 15,000 gallons per pull. A sample from the first test was sent to a laboratory to confirm cleanliness results, said Jolin. Cleanliness standards were met and the clean water is being discharged into Lake River. A pollution discharge permit from the Department of Ecology has already been secured to do that.

Hot steam will be injected into the ground to liquify syrupy contaminants for ease in drawing out possibly in a few months, Grening said.

The clean-up cost will be about $4 million per year for about eight years, Grening said, funded almost entirely through the state Department of Ecology.

"Things are going very well," Grening said. "Step by step, we're going to do this right."

RIDGEFIELD GETS CLEAN SWEEP

Interim city manager takes charge during first week

Heidi Wallenborn, news director

The old drinking fountain in front of Ridgefield city hall may be a harbinger of things to come in that city's government.

George Fox, newly hired interim city manager, noticed the fountain didn't work March 11, the evening he was chosen by council members to head the city.

Fox said he intended to call public works the next day to either fix it or remove it. He used the fountain as a metaphor: if it's salvageable, keep it. If not, get rid of it. Such is his motto in cleaning up Ridgefield city matters, he said.

Before noon the next day, water flowed in the old brass fountain that had not worked in years. The front of city hall had been swept clear of debris as well.

Ridgefield plagued by troubles; Fox says "no problem"

Over the last five years, Ridgefield has come under fire from, and had arguments with, officials of the Port of Ridgefield, the state Department of Ecology, federal Environmental Protection Agency, the state attorney general's office and its own citizens about several topics, besides bickering among council members over various issues.

In 1999, city and Port officials were in a tug-of-war over a land swap for the wastewater treatment plant expansion, which is on Port property.

In 2000, Ridgefield police chief Steve Garrott quit without explanation after misconduct allegations.

The city's first manager, Tom Weldon, was hired in September 2000 and walked off the job about nine months later because he was unhappy with the council's evaluation of his job performance.

Randy Bombardier, the most recent city manager, was hired October 2001 and let go after an executive session last Thursday.

Bombardier's contract was terminated because of "incompetency, inattention to duty, dishonesty and discourteous treatment of the public or fellow employees" among other allegations, according to a council resolution.

Bombardier is also under investigation by the state Environmental Crimes Task Force for his role in alleged improper removal of lead-based paint from the front of city hall in June 2002.

For most of 2002, public works employees were under investigation for and later convicted of mismanagement at the wastewater treatment plant, falsifying drinking water tests, and trucking untreated human waste to an area tree farm to be used as fertilizer.

Most recently, city officials dropped the ball regarding state Ecology requirements for a pollution discharge permit for the treatment plant, resulting in a curtail on the amount of sewer hookups allowed for new developments.

Nevertheless, Fox said he is undaunted by the challenge of Ridgefield's past, and expects the city to "be in shape in six months."

Fox, 43, is a professional management consultant, Certified Public Accountant and attorney. He is also under contract with the Port of Ridgefield as finance and administration director and assistant treasurer.

Fox, a Tacoma resident who keeps a Hazel Dell apartment, spends a variety of hours monthly under contract with the ports of Olympia, Shelton, Tacoma, Klickitat County/Bingen, and Hoodsport, and as chief financial officer with Maul, Foster and Alongi in Vancouver.

From Washington University Law School in Missouri, Fox earned a Juris Doctor degree and took classes in master of law in taxation and master's in business administration. He also earned a bachelor's degree in accounting from Illinois Wesleyan University.

From 1989 to 1995, Fox was tax attorney, trainer and manager at Union Pacific Railroad Co. He was controller and chief financial officer for the Puyallup Tribe 1996-1997, and director of finance and administration at the Port of Olympia 1997-1998.

On any given day, Fox handles about $25 million in investment funds for the entities he works for, he said.

"I am the most extensively audited CPA in the state," he said, grinning. "I've never had one `finding.'"

"Ridgefield is no problem," Fox said, adding that he has followed the city's woes for about five years. "I've come into a mess. We'll strip it down to the bare minimum, get rid of the rust and fix the system or the person and build a framework."

The first week on the job entailed meetings with department heads and employees, speaking with them and getting to know them.

"I'm focused internally," Fox said, "and gaining an understanding about how to work as a team. I want to know the team first so I can represent that team in the community."

Fox is also working on the budget so actual expenses will match reality, he said.

A delegation of authority document is also being drawn up for council approval in early April that clarifies "what the council shall do and what the executive shall do," in the council/city manager form of government.

"It will expand on the state law so everyone knows what to do," Fox said.

Another document specifying internal controls, policies and procedures for staff and employees will be ready for council approval by early May, Fox said.

"It will clarify what everyone is supposed to be doing," he said. "It will be the framework of the city. Once that is in place we can replace old employees with new employees."

Fox said he will replace city attorney Brian Wolfe who resigned March 5, and "there may be some personnel changes as early as the end of March."

"I believe in establishing a longterm repoire," Fox said. "Entities survive people. Bringing in a new perspective helps. We'll build a structure, bring in people and make it work. From 30,000 feet, that's the view."

TED NUTTER DROWNS IN MEXICO

Prominent Battle Ground resident Ted Nutter drowned March 18 while swimming off the coast of Mexico.

Nutter Corporation spokesman Jeff Woodside said Nutter was vacationing with family members about 50 miles north of Puerto Vallerta when the tragedy occurred.

Woodside said Nutter drowned while attempting to swim from shore to his boat.

Born and raised in the Battle Ground area, Nutter graduated from Battle Ground High School in 1964. He was 57.

Nutter and his son, Jerry, founded Nutter Corporation in 1992. The firm is a well-known installer of underground utilities.

Nutter is survived by his wife, Chris, and a son Jerry and daughter Julie by a previous marriage.

Funeral services are scheduled for Fri., March 26, noon, at Glenwood Community Church, 12201 NE 72nd Ave., Vancouver.

OBITS

DONALD MATSON

Donald Edward Matson, 73, died March 20, 2004 in Yacolt.

Matson was born Jan. 5, 1931 in Battle Ground, worked as a self-employed carpenter, and lived in Clark County his entire life.

Matson was a member of the Hockinson Apostolic Lutheran Church. He enjoyed Christian fellowship, singing hymns and hunting. He loved the Lord and his family. He was in the Navy during the Korean War. He enjoyed traveling and the outdoors, especially wild birds, horses, dogs, mountains and streams. He enjoyed old trucks and was a member o the Yacolt school board for many years.

Matson lived in Venersborg for 25 years and Yacolt for 48 years.

Matson was preceded in death by a brother, Wes Matson. Survivors include widow Clara Matson, at home, daughters Carla Miller of Pasco, Robin Somero of North Carolina and Helen Tervo of Vancouver, sons Mark Matson of Pasco, Ken Matson of New Hampshire, Ted Matson and Donny Matson, both of Yacolt, Tracy Matson of North Carolina, and Will Matson of Battle Ground, sisters Marge Staudinger, Carol Sarvis and Rhoda Olin, all of Canada, Betty West of Brush Prairie and Mary Kandoll of Rosburg, brothers Lew Matson and Chuck Matson, both of Battle Ground, Lee Matson of Canada and Jim Matson of Brush Prairie, 67 grandchildren and one great-grandchild.

Funeral services will be held Fri., March 26, 1 p.m., at Hockinson Apostolic Lutheran Church, 16108 NE 192nd Ave., Brush Prairie, with committal at Gravel Point Cemetery. The casket will be open Thurs., March 25, 7-9 p.m., at the church.

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

JOHN MCDANIELS

John David McDaniels died shortly after birth March 15, 2004 in Vancouver.

Survivors include parents Terry and Mary McDaniels, at home in Yacolt, sisters Amber, Erika, Marcel, Carmen, Elizabeth, Celia and Stefany, all at home, brothers Nicolas, Lance and Wade, all at home, grandparents Lyle and Elaine McDaniels of South Dakota, and David and Annette Carlson of Michigan, and great-grandparents Linda Niska of Minnesota and Ethel and Harold Carlson of Michigan.

Graveside services were held at Elim Cemetery, Brush Prairie, with Layne's Funeral Home, Battle Ground, in charge of arrangements.

KENNETH COCHRANE

Kenneth Eugene Cochrane, 99, died March 18, 2004 in Vancouver.

Cochrane was born Nov. 7, 1904, in Harrison, Idaho, worked as a carpenter, and lived in Clark County for 30 years.

Cochrane enjoyed traveling, music, dancing, gardening, building things and watching the news. He was interested in the World Series and football playoff games. He also enjoyed going out to eat and family get-togethers.

Cochrane was preceded in death by his wife, Mamie Mason Cochrane, in 1989. Survivors include daughter Maurene Boutz of Spokane, step-daughter Lois Collins of Oregon, step-sons Reynold Mason of Vancouver and Mel Mason of Battle Ground, granddaughter Charlotte Boutz of Spokane, and numerous step-grandchildren, step-great-grandchildren, and step-great-great-grandchildren.

Funeral services will take place Thurs., March 25, 11 a.m., at Layne's Funeral Home Chapel, Battle Ground, with Layne's Funeral Home in charge of arrangements.

REBECCA LOGUE

Rebecca "Becki" Marie Logue, 28, died March 17, 2004 in Vancouver.

Logue was born Aug. 27, 1975 in Portland, worked in film processing in the photo developing industry, and lived in Clark County her entire life.

Logue attended Grace Lutheran Church. She graduated from Mt. View High School in 1993 and attended Clark College where she participated in the theater group. She enjoyed theater, photography, going to the beach, hiking in the Columbia River Gorge, and spending time with her dogs. She also liked singing, especially karaoke.

Survivors include mother Linda Mae Logue of Vancouver, father and step-mother C. Wayne and Melanie Logue of Battle Ground, sisters Lynette Davis of Woodland and Heather Megyesi of Oregon, step-sister Colleen Jones and her baby, Cruz, of Oregon, brother John Logue of Battle Ground, step-brother Jonathan Chambers of Michigan, grandparents Gladys Moreland of Texas and John Logue Jr. of Battle Ground, special companion Bret Conrad of Vancouver, and numerous aunts, uncles and cousins.

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

Monty R. Cooke, 71, died March 10, 2004 in Vancouver.

Cooke was born Jan. 1, 1933 in Des Moines, IA. While he was a young boy, his parents moved to Renton.

Cooke graduated from Renton High School. He discovered a love for growing plants during his high school years while working part-time for truck farmers near Renton.

Cooke's fondness for growing plants prompted him to start his first retail nursery in Seattle.

Over a long business career, he owned retail nurseries in Oregon and Vancouver.

Cooke loved music, singing and horse racing. As he succeeded in business, Cooke purchased race horses and entered them in races at Portland Meadows and other tracks.

For the past seven years, Cooke owned and operated a retail nursery at 12503 NE 72nd Ave., Vancouver.

Cooke was preceded in death by sister Kathleen Byers and brother Charles Edward Cooke. Survivors include sister Evelyn Daniewicz of Olympia, nephews Brian Cooke of Ellensburg, Jeffrey Cooke of Portland, and Chris Daniewicz of Spokane, and nieces Kathy Reid and Debra Daniewicz, both of Puyallup.

Sierra Nicole Maldonado's body was found March 15 after disappearing March 13. The Multnomah County Medical Examiner's office lists her date of death as March 15.

Maldonado, 20, was born Nov. 29, 1983. She is survived by parents Dean and Suzie Maldonado of Ridgefield and Kelly and Fritz Clark of Arizona, sisters Miranda, Kristi, Kolby, Cortney and Torre, brother Tobin, grandparents Mary Robertson of Ridgefield, Arthur and Maxine Maldonado of Pueblo, CO, Ed and Gloria Pietz of Ridgefield, Cecilia and Charlie Scherzberg of Fishtail, MT, and Connie and Robbie Clark of Monte Vista, CO, aunts and uncles Joann and Able Rodriguez of Pueblo, CO, Darlene and Greg Caroll of Montana, and Lonnie and Lynne Pietz of Ridgefield.

Memorial Gardens Funeral Chapel is in charge of arrangements. A memorial service was held March 19 at Crossroads Community Church, Vancouver.

The family requests memorial contributions be made to Child Seek Network, PO Box 1902, Wilsonville, OR, 97070.

ERNEST BREWER

Ernest H. Brewer, 92, died March 4, 2004 in Sun City, AZ.

Brewer was born Jan. 13, 1912 in Imperial, California, and moved to La Center in 1976. He moved to Battle Ground in 1997 and to Wickenburg, AZ in 1999.

Brewer was a retired carpenter. Brewer built PT boats during World War II, along with landing craft and military housing. He was a custom carpenter in California. He was a member of the Carpenters Local 1815 for 50 years.

Brewer enjoyed hunting, fishing, and fixing things on his daughter's horse ranch. He served as president of the Jolly Mixers square dance club in California before moving to Washington. He was active in the Dates and Mates square dance group in Clark County.

Survivors include widow Bessie Brewer, sons Herbert Brewer and Donald Brewer, both of California, and Gerald Brewer of Redmond, daughter Gloria Brewer-Henkel of Arizona, sister Florence Parkin, 15 grandchildren and 27 great-grandchildren.

Interment was at the Wickenburg Memorial Cemetery, Arizona, with Wickenburg Funeral Home in charge of arrangements.

CARRIE HAZEN

Carrie Elsie (Buchanan) Hazen, 108, died March 15, 2004 in La Center.

Hazen was born Aug. 23, 1895 in La Center, and lived her entire life in Clark County.

Hazen was a charter member of the Fargher Lake Grange. She attended Fargher Lake School and went to school and church on a horse.

Hazen was preceded in death by her husband, Homer Hazen, in 1968, and sons Harvey Hazen and Dale Hazen. Survivors include daughter Dorothy Lutje of Battle Ground, sons Lynn Hazen of Silver Lake and Wayne Hazen of La Center, and 12 grandchildren.

Interment was at View Cemetery, La Center, with the Vancouver Funeral Chapel in charge of arrangements.

CALVIN VAN OURKERK

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

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

Van 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, with one great-grandchild expected on what would have been Van Ourkerk's birthday, June 5, 2004.

Graveside services were held at All Souls Cemetery, Vallejo, California, with Layne's Funeral Home, Battle Ground, in charge of arrangements.