VOLUNTEERS HONORED AT COWLITZ FIRE 7

Resignations, promotions and recognitions were the order of the evening as Cowlitz-Skamania County Fire District 7 conducted its annual recognition potluck March 27 at the Ariel Fire Station.

Fire commissioner Ilene Black told those present that two new commissioners were seated in the past few months.

Longtime fire chief Don Stuart was elected to a commissioner position last fall, replacing Arnie Osmanberg who did not seek reelection after 10 years of service.

In addition, Paul Kuper was appointed as commissioner to replace Richard Person who was elected commissioner in November 2001. Kuper's position will be on the fall ballot.

Black continues as commissioner, a post she has held for 19 years.

Gary Stuart, who previously served as assistant chief, is now chief of the district.

"This is a transitional period for the district," said Stuart, who said there was no single reason for the changes that have taken place.

Ron Orloske resigned his post as Captain after 17 volunteer years with the district, as did Capt. Walter Black with 20 years of service.

Judy Orloske resigned as secretary of the board of commissioners, stating she planned to pursue other interests. She said she will continue as vice president of the Fireperson's Association.

The fire district continues to operate entirely with volunteers and no paid staff. Even the chief is not paid.

Stuart handed out pins, certificates, jackets and caps in recognition of volunteer service to the district.

Don Stuart was recognized for 27 years with the district, Gary Stuart 21 years, Paul Cline and Walter Black 20 years each, Ron Orloske and Cheryl Cline 17 years each, Becky Huesties and Sharon Stuart 15 years, Rob Dore 14 years, and Linda Roff and Michael Roff, 12 years each.

Others recognized for service were Eric Reese seven years, Robert McEldoon and Kenneth Kelsay 11 years each, Dennese Kelsay nine years, Douglas Thomas, Bobby Kelsay and Ray Cottrell five years each, and Christopher Blessing, Michael Fink, Cheryl Rietman, and Michael Rietman four years each.

Those with 1-3 years of service were Jarrett Atchley, Roger Berube, Sloan Blanchard, Bobbi Blessing, Brian Buck, Bryana Cline, Jessica DeTrant, Connie Fenne, Cori Hotson, Kyle Hubbell, Steven Johnson, Paul Lanquist, Nanette Leija, Curtis Lowden, Jason McAlister, Joseph McAlister, Susan Millars, Gary Pleasants, Mary Pleasants, Ryan Pleasants, Don Renfro, Jeff Salisbury, Rick Schmidt, and Keith Stuart.

Chief Gary Stuart announced promotions to replace various positions.

Rob Dore and Michael Roff were promoted to captain, and Michael Rietman and Robert McEldoon were promoted to lieutenant.

Gary Stuart said the district responded to 147 calls during 2003, of which 118 were for medical assistance and 29 fire. "That's about one call every three days," said Stuart.

Stuart said the district currently has 46 volunteers, down from a previous high of 54.

"We really appreciate everybody," said Stuart.

Stuart said the banning of alcohol from PacifiCorps parks that line the North Fork of the Lewis River greatly reduced the number of calls for medical aid.

Denno Dobbe provided cut tulips for the occasion, and Dennis Crawford sang songs for entertainment.

KEIRN RETAINS POST IN CONSERVATION DISTRICT

Steve Keirn was reelected March 4 as a supervisor of the Clark County Conservation District.

Keirn, a soil scientist who works for the Clark County Health Department, received 71 votes, while challenger Dvija Michael Bertish received 52.

Keirn has been a Conservation District supervisor for 12 years, one of five supervisors to manage the organization.

The Conservation District assists small farm landowners with conservation projects designed to promote good land stewardship. The District obtains funding through grants.

Registered voters throughout most of Clark County are eligible to vote for District supervisors. The election was certified March 18.

Information, Denise Smee, 883-1987, ext. 110.

Planning is underway for the widening of NE 179th St. from I-5 easterly to NE 50th Ave.

Project manager Linda Small said NE 179th St. will be widened to five lanes from just east of I-5 to NE 29th Ave., and then to three lanes from 29th Ave. to NE 50th Ave.

Sidewalks and bike lanes will be included in the work. The road is on the edge of the city of Vancouver Urban Growth Boundary, but the widening will be done by Clark County.

Small said the project is currently ranked 15th on a county priority list. She said the work is estimated at $22.5 million, but is not yet funded nor scheduled.

The western terminus of the widening project will be NE 15th Ave., said Small, which is to extend south of NE 179th St.

Because some wetlands will be disrupted when the work takes place, county officials have purchased land at the intersection of NE 29th Ave. and NE 199th St. to mitigate the wetland losses.

Phil Gaddis of the county's Environmental Permitting section, said land purchases at the intersection were made in 2002 and 2003.

The county now owns about 28 acres at the southeast corner of the intersection, 15 acres in the northwest corner, and three acres in the northeast corner.

The county will gain more mitigation credits from work at this intersection than will be needed for the 179th St. widening project, said Gaddis, even though several hills will be removed from the existing road and four stream crossings reconstructed.

Gaddis said an existing ditch on the northwest corner will be widened and rerouted to meander through the site.

Stumps and other woody debris have been placed on the southeast corner. Planning is still underway on further improvements, said Gaddis.

Gaddis said the logs and stumps will break down slowly and add organic materials to the soil. Those materials aid soil-dwelling organisms, he said.

Some logs were placed upright, said Gaddis, and will provide shelter to cavity-nesting birds as well as a food source of insects for birds.

Work will likely include planting vegetation, he said.

Lowell Weiss, manager of the county's Real Property Services section, said woody materials have been removed by firewood cutters at similar sites elsewhere in the county, leading county officials to place "Keep Out" signs at this intersection.

Such materials were taken in the vicinity of Andresen Road and Padden, said Weiss. No such activity has taken place a the 29th Ave.\199th St. site, said Gaddis.

"We have had trouble at that intersection (29th/199th) in the past," said Gaddis, with flooding during storm peaks.

Wetland mitigation work at the intersection of 29th Ave. and 199th St. is funded by both the Clean Water Fund and the pending 179th St. widening project, said Gaddis.

For the record

County spokesperson Nikki Bushaw said the county purchased land from six individuals for its mitigation work at the 29th/199th intersection.

On the northeast corner, the county bought three acres from Berry at $69,000.

On the northwest corner, the county bought two acres from Allen at $46,000, three acres from Wilson at $69,000, and 10 acres from Rodda at $230,000.

On the southeast corner, the county bought 13.5 acres from Gabbert for $264,000, six acres from Schurman at $144,800, and 10 acres from Branenburg at $421,000.

The county subsequently sold two of the Branenburg acres, along with a house, to Ronald and Jeanette Sluder for $205,000.

ZARELLI'S BILL GIVES SENIOR TAX BREAK

Gov. Gary Locke signed legislation March 31 giving senior citizens property tax relief. The bill was sponsored by State Sen. Joe Zarelli (R-Ridgefield).

"There is a real need out there for our senior citizens," said Zarelli. "We've got people living on fixed incomes and being forced out of homes that are already paid for because their property values and taxes just keep going up."

"It's been a long, two-year battle for this legislation," said Zarelli. "But I'm glad the governor finally has the opportunity to put pen to paper and make this official."

The new law applies to senior citizens and people who are retired because of physical disabilities. It raises the income limit for a property tax deferral for seniors from $34,000 to $40,000. It also raises the income eligibility levels for property tax exemptions and allows seniors to deduct health care insurance premiums from disposal income.

"From the beginning, my goal in helping frame our state's spending plan was to shore up the safety net for our most vulnerable citizens while being fiscally responsible with our scarce tax dollars," said Zarelli who chairs the Senate Ways and Means Committee. "I think this legislation falls right in line with that goal."

Zarelli can be reached at (360) 786-7634, or 600-5611.

WORK RESUMES ON PLANKHOUSE

Greg Robinson has returned to spearhead construction of a replica Indian plankhouse at the Ridgefield Wildlife Refuge following a one-month shutdown due to funding problems.

A work party of volunteers April 4 resumed work on logs for use in the plankhouse project.

A new completion date of March 2005 has been set for opening the plankhouse, four months later than previously planned.

Carver Adam McIsaac is also slated to return to work. Robinson and McIsaac are paid.

The plankhouse is part of the celebration of the bicentennial of the Lewis and Clark expedition.

Refuge spokesperson Yvette Donovan said a new $45,000 grant from the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, plus a $50,000 grant from the National Park Service, have allowed work to resume.

Work was halted in late February when a grant from the state Department of Transportation was put on hold after the Cowlitz Indian Tribe objected to being excluded from the project or recognized as having lived in the Refuge area during the era of the Lewis and Clark expedition.

Cowlitz Tribe representatives John Barnett and Mike Iyall said that, because the actual inhabitants of the Cathlapotle Village in the Refuge area are not documented, the project should include all tribes of the region.

Barnett and Iyall objected to involvement of only the Chinook Tribe. "We want history to be correct and complete," they said.

Meetings between the Cowlitz Tribe and U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service representatives are being mediated by David Nicandri, director of the Washington State Historical Society.

Nicandri said federal law requires agencies to consult with tribes on projects such as the plankhouse.

Nicandri said the two sides have reached an agreement in principle. "There has been a significant meeting of the minds," said Nicandri.

The agreement is not yet written, said Nicandri, but will lead to Tribe involvement in the plankhouse project.

The two sides have no further meetings scheduled, said Nicandri.

Funding for construction of the plankhouse is generally handled by the Lewis and Clark Bicentennial Committee of Vancouver/Clark County.

Arlene Johnson of the Bicentennial Committee said funding for the plankhouse generally flows through the state Historical Society enroute to her committee and then to the project.

But the latest U.S. Fish and Wildlife grant did not go through her committee, said Johnson.

Johnson was uncertain where the pending state Department of Transportation grant was held up, or whether it would reach her committee or go directly to the project.

An initial pole raising ceremony marked the start of actual construction. Cedar logs have been acquired and are in various stages of preparation.

Robinson works on the plankhouse project Sundays through Thursdays.

Information, Yvette Donovan, 887-4106 or Robinson at www.palixchinook@aol.com

Washougal city council member Brian Beecher has announced his intention to seek election to the state legislature from the 18th District, running against incumbent Ed Orcutt.

Beecher, a Democrat, stressed the need for more money for education at all levels. Money for education could come from closing "tax loopholes" for businesses," said Beecher.

"We need to take a close look at tax benefits for businesses," said Beecher.

Beecher said some tax breaks for businesses were designed to create living wage jobs. He proposed a review of such job-creating tax incentives.

Beecher, 24, said he opposed Ref. 51, the nine cent gas tax, because the project list was vague. "New tax measures need to be clear," said Beecher.

Beecher said the benefits of light rail are debatable.

Beecher is employed as a community services officer at Washington State University Vancouver, working in security. He has been a member of the Washougal city council since December 2001. He serves as a volunteer coach for the Washougal High School wrestling team.

Beecher can be reached at 513-1814.

LA CENTER WELCOME GREETS NAVY MAN

Bill Myers, staff reporter

A joyful April 1 homecoming for U.S. Navy reservist Robert Taylor began at a yellow ribbon-lined La Center Bridge.

City police and Fire District 12 firefighters with happy citizens and family members, escorted Taylor across the bridge into town.

The hero's welcome was organized by La Center postal clerk Marie Coffey.

Taylor, a chief petty officer, was deployed to Kuwait last August and took part in border-guard operations.

A lifelong La Center resident and member of the La Center School Board, Taylor lives with his wife, Karen, and six children.

Marcus Brotherton, staff reporter

A Battle Ground High School student has completed the junior version of one of the world's most prestigious dogsled races.

Alana Schlang, 17, finished 10th out of 22 competitors in the Junior Iditarod held Feb. 28-29 in Alaska. She also took home the Humanitarian Award given by event veterinarians for the best dog care.

Schlang raced her team of 13 dogs more than 140 miles for 24 hours over the first leg of the full-fledged Iditarod.

The full Iditarod is more than 1,150 miles, and was held immediately after the junior version. The junior version of the race is for 14-17 year olds. Schlang plans to run the full Iditarod after she finishes college in 2012.

Schlang and her father, Rick, drove to Alaska to acclimate their dogs and do additional training almost three weeks before the race began. They lived in a rustic cabin with no electricity, running water or indoor plumbing.

Schlang said she felt excited more than nervous on race day. She wanted to see how her team would perform against the others. Only one other competitor, a girl from Colorado, was from the lower 48 states. Other junior team mushers were made up of residents of Alaska, and about half of those were the children of professional mushers.

Temperatures warmed to about minus 10-20 Fahrenheit for the event. The week before temperatures had dipped to minus 30.

Prior to the race Schlang told her dad she did not want two things to happen--she didn't want to start the race first (teams are sent out at two-minute intervals), and she did not want to meet a moose on the race course.

Unfortunately, both happened. Racers drew numbers to see who would start first--Schlang drew number one. On one of the first turns into the race, she met a mother moose with a calf.

Moose are known to treat dogsled teams as adversaries, Schlang said. Dogs and mushers have been stomped and worse. Racers are not allowed to carry rifles. Schlang simply stopped her team in the middle of the trail and waited about 20 minutes for the moose and calf to move.

Schlang continued racing to the turn-around point at which all racers are required to stop for 10 hours.

Each racer carries about 150 pounds of gear including an axe, sleeping bag, and dog and people food.

After caring for her dogs and cooking dinner on an alcohol-burning stove, Schlang slept for about 10 minutes that night, resting in her parka and snow gear on top of her sled. She continued racing about 4 a.m. the next morning.

On the second day, three teams got lost. One had to be found by a search plane.

For Schlang, the second day had better racing conditions except one of her dogs was injured in a fight amongst her own pack and had to be flown back to the main station.

Schlang said for most of the race she listened to music on her compact disc player while zipping along the trail.

She was happy to complete the race and happy to place as well as she did.

Since returning, Schlang has kept up with her school speaking engagements. She traveled to eastern Washington and spoke in three schools.

Schlang's message is about goal setting, perseverance and success.

"Anything is possible," Schlang said. "There's only one way to fail, and that's to quit."

Schlang has been interested in sled dog mushing since she was 7. She got her first team in 2000.

For more information about Alana Schlang, log on to: www.goldenicekennels.com

Marcus Brotherton, staff reporter

Spending for overtime pay at north Clark County fire districts appears to be on target for keeping budgets balanced while still providing emergency services.

Overtime spending is difficult to predict when constructing budgets each year, say fire district officials, because overtime is typically paid for large-scale emergency calls only, which cannot be scheduled.

Overtime is also paid to area firefighters who are called to work wildfires throughout the state, say officials, but in that case, overtime money is reimbursed from the state.

Budget preparers will often predict more money will be spent for overtime than is actually spent, say officials, to prepare for any contingency which may arise in the course of a year.

Steve Wrightson, Fire District 3 chief, follows this protocol. He budgeted $23,500 for overtime in 2003 and spent about $17,000.

Wrightson increased the amount budgeted for overtime in 2004 to $35,000 because two positions have become vacant and Wrightson anticipates more overtime hours will be needed until the positions are filled, he said.

Wrightson has 12 firefighters eligible for overtime pay, none of them management personnel.

Because firefighters work is done in shifts, overtime is considered anything beyond 212 hours in a 28 day cycle, Wrightson said. Compensation days called "Kelly days" are encouraged to keep overtime down.

Dennis Mason, District 11 chief, said his department budgeted $10,000 for overtime in 2003 and spent about $6,000. The figures do not represent pass-throughs from the state. Mason kept the budget the same for 2004.

Mason's department uses several volunteer firefighters, which cuts down on the need for overtime pay, he said. Management personnel are not eligible for overtime pay.

Larry Bartel, District 12 chief, said his department budgeted about $19,500 for overtime in 2003 and spent about $11,200. Similar numbers are predicted for 2004. His department also uses volunteers to minimize overtime spending.

Rob Dahl, Woodland fire chief, said his department has only one paid firefighter besides himself. Overtime spending is kept to pre-authorized emergency calls only. Volunteers are used to prevent overtime as much as possible. Dahl is salaried and receives no overtime.

Tom McDowell, chief of Yacolt Fire, said his department only uses volunteers and does not pay overtime.

BG RESIDENT HELPS PASS STATE LEGISLATION

Marcus Brotherton, staff reporter

Battle Ground resident Leslie Jones was successful in getting the state legislature to pass legislation that gives parents more say in how state officials handle misconduct allegations regarding school employees.

The new state law now allows parents to file written complaints regarding unresolved sexual harassment issues directly to the state superintendent of public instruction. In the past, only superintendents of local school districts or educational service districts could file to the state. Jones first discussed the matter with Sen. Don Benton (R-Brush Prairie) last September at a town hall meeting. Benton co-sponsored the legislation along with Sen. Jeanne Kohl-Wells (D-Seattle). Two senate bills were eventually passed pertaining to the matter.

Jones met with Gov. Gary Locke and Benton March 26 to sign the bills into law.

Jones said the heart of the new legislation is about equity.

Jones believes school district personnel can be biased when investigating teacher misconduct cases, because they, along with teacher's union representatives, are interested in minimizing potential liabilities that can arise from investigations.

"Prior to this," Jones said, "parental concerns fell into the black hole of administrative action or inaction, where no one knew for sure if concerns about teacher misconduct were making their way to [the state.]"

Along with providing direct access to state officials, Senate bill 6171 mandates that investigations conducted by the superintendent of public instruction be completed within one year of the start of the investigation.

Investigations now must also be completed regardless if a school employee leaves the state or turns in his or her teaching certificate. School districts sometimes dropped investigations in the past if an employee removed him or herself from the immediate situation.

Senate bill 5533 gives public access to school personnel files if employees have been accused and found guilty of sexual misconduct. School districts now must also provide known information regarding employees' sexual misconduct when those employees attempt to transfer to different school districts.

Benton said the new legislation does not pertain to any specific matter in the Battle Ground School District where Jones is a patron, but was written to address greater, state-wide issues.

Benton first became interested in tightening safety procedures related to sexual misconduct after reviewing a Seattle Times investigative report last fall, he said.

The report found more than 150 school employees state-wide were still employed by school districts after being found guilty of sexual misconduct.

Benton said the new legislation is written in the spirit of providing the safest educational environment for children.

EGG HUNTS ADD TO EASTER FUN

Heidi Wallenborn, news director

Rain or shine, not much seems to daunt children who scramble under bushes, search behind plants and race across lawns after colorful eggs left by the evasive Easter Bunny.

Several hunts will be held throughout the north Clark County area Sat., April 10, at various locations:

Battle Ground

An Easter Egg Hunt festival will be held in Kiwanis Park beginning with a Lions Club pancake breakfast 8-11 a.m., followed by Kiwanis Key Club members Kids Games 9-10 a.m., and a 4-H petting zoo.

Egg hunters will be divided into groups of ages 1-3, 4-5, 6-7 and 8-10 or older. Hunting for 4,000 eggs begins at 10 a.m.

Dollars Corner

Fire District 11 firefighters will host the annual Dollars Corner Easter Egg Hunt.

Beginning at 10 a.m., participants ages 11 and younger may hunt for about 105 dozen hard-boiled eggs. Candy and toy prizes will be given away.

At least six children will receive gift certificates to have lunch with a firefighter.

The hunt will be held at the Dollars Corner fire station, 21609 NE 72nd Ave.

Ridgefield

The annual egg hunt hosted by Lions and Leo club members for children ages 2-8 will begin 10 a.m. sharp, rain or shine, in Abram's Park.

About 125 dozen plastic eggs filled with candy will be hidden throughout the grounds. Children are asked to bring their own basket or plastic sack to collect eggs.

The Easter Bunny will make an appearance as well, posing for photos and handing out treats.

Coffee, hot chocolate and cookies will be available.

Mountain View Christian Center will host an egg hunt and more starting at 1 p.m. for children age 1 through sixth grade.

More than 1,200 eggs will be hidden and five Easter prize baskets given to those who find golden eggs.

Afterward there will be games, crafts and a movie in the church, located at 2810 NE 259th St., Ridgefield.

Pleasant View Church of the Nazarene will host an egg hunt after a sunrise service and breakfast on Easter Sunday. The hunt begins at 9:30 a.m. The service is at 8:30 a.m., and breakfast at 9:15 a.m.

Woodland

The annual Woodland Easter Egg Hunt at Horseshoe Lake Park will begin at 10 a.m. sharp. About 400 children participate every year to find about 1,000 eggs filled with candy, about 300 dozen hard-boiled eggs, and prize eggs to be redeemed after the hunt.

A visit from the Easter Bunny and plenty of prizes donated by area businesses and the city of Woodland will be available as well.

Orchards

A free brunch at 10 a.m. followed by a children's drama and music extravaganza Nightwatch at 11:15, will precede an egg hunt at 12:15 p.m. hosted by Oasis Christian Center at Living Hope Community Church, 10702 NE 117th Ave., Orchards.

Hockinson

Hockinson Community Church will host an Easter celebration and hunt April 10.

Gunny sack races, tug-of-war, face painting, balloon animals, children's games and crafts will begin at 10:30 a.m.

The first egg hunt for pre-kindergarten age children will begin at 10:30 a.m., followed by a children's program at 10:50 a.m.

A hunt for children kindergarten through second grade will begin at 11:15 a.m., and a hunt for children third through sixth grade at 11:45 a.m.

The church is located at 15918 NE 182nd Ave.

Elim Lutheran Church will begin Easter festivities at 11:30 a.m. with a barbecue lunch featuring hot dogs and hamburgers.

An egg hunt at 1 p.m. will be geared toward children ages 2-13.

The church is located at NE 159th St. and NE 182nd Ave., across the street from the Hockinson Market.

Brush Prairie

Brush Prairie Baptist Church will host a free "Eggs"travaganza 9 a.m.-noon featuring an egg hunt, games and a variety of activities. All are welcome.

The church is located at 11814 NE 117th Ave.

Yacolt

An annual Easter Egg hunt at Yacolt Town Park on the corner of Humphrey and John streets will begin at 10 a.m. for children fourth grade and younger.

The Yacolt Citizen's Group have filled plastic eggs with candy which, along with decorated hard boiled eggs, will be hidden throughout the grounds. Several prizes will be given away as well.

Amboy

The North Clark Lions Club will host an egg hunt at 10 a.m. at Territorial Days Park next to the North Clark Historical Museum for ages 10 an under.

About 130 dozen eggs will be hidden in three areas in the park. Children ages 1-3 will hunt in the beer garden area, ages 4-6 by the trees near the park entrance, and ages 7-10 in the logging arena.

Each child will receive a flower. The Easter Bunny is expected to make an appearance.

Children finding special eggs will be rewarded with prizes.

La Center

The La Center Lions Club will host an annual egg hunt at 10 a.m. at the La Center Middle School.

Age groups 0-2, 3-4, 5-6 and 7-8 will search for about 150 dozen eggs while the Easter Bunny makes rounds.

Prize eggs and baskets for each age group will also be available.

YACOLT COMMUNITY CENTER STILL CONCEPTUAL

"Too many kids on streets at 10 p.m."

Bill Myers, staff reporter

Yacolt town leaders say construction of a controversial Community Center is still "conceptual" with no funding in sight.

At the March 29 forum, town council members responded to a list of questions raised during a Feb. 23 forum about proposed uses of a Center.

Town leaders used a $20,000 Community Development Block Grant last year to obtain a preliminary design of the Center, which designers predict will cost about $1.9 million.

The Center would house a town hall, dispatch area for Clark County Sheriff deputies and an area for citizen activities.

Council member Debbie Smith said uses are still in "conceptual" stages, and "anything is open for discussion."

Other future uses may include organized and supervised indoor youth activities, classes, and medical activities including examinations and vaccinations overseen by Clark County Health Department officials.

Gymnasiums at the Yacolt School and the Evangelical Free Church may be used by area youths if parents request arrangements and supervise activities, said Smith.

"We're already paying taxes for the school gym, so we should use it," said Smith.

Smith said discussion of a Center began when a Clark County Sheriff's Office representative said the town might qualify for enough grant funds to pay 75 percent of Center construction costs.

The town qualified for special low-income grants in 1990, but no longer qualifies because average incomes are now considered too high for the grants, said Smith.

Council member Judy Mason said a preliminary design is needed to support applications for other grant applications.

"Finding funding is the next step," said mayor Jim Robertson.

Smith said the building, if built, could be constructed in stages. She said the grounds will be well-landscaped. Construction with logs on the front of the building could celebrate area logging history.

The building should not hurt adjacent property values, said Smith.

Town leaders have not purchased property for the building. Design consultants believe a 1.5 acre lot across the street from the existing town hall would be suitable.

Citizen Patty Benge said the town should consider buying the Evangelical Free Church property instead of building a new town hall.

"Do we get to vote on it?" asked Benge.

Mason said the church is not for sale. Smith said votes are required on bond issues, or when taxes are increased by more than 1 percent.

Maintenance costs at the Center could be offset by user fees, said Smith.

Robertson lauded efforts of citizens and youths who want a skateboard park and are willing to form a non-profit corporation in order to raise funds.

"There are too many kids on the street at 10 p.m., and we need something for all of them to do, not just skateboarders," said Benge.

"We can't make them stay at home after 9 p.m.," said Robertson. "You can't hold the town responsible for what parents don't do."

Benge said parents need to volunteer to lead activities.

"If parents don't care, someone has to," said Benge. "I'd volunteer."

Council member Ron Stewart said the council tries to represent the entire town, not just individual groups.

"We want to do our best for everyone," he said.

CURTIS ANNOUNCES FOR 18TH DISTRICT

Bill Myers, staff reporter

La Center city council member Richard Curtis said he will run for the District 18 state representative position being vacated by fellow Republican Tom Mielke.

Mielke recently announced he will run for the Clark County commissioner post held by Betty Sue Morris.

Curtis, a two-year city council member, is a Republican. He made his announcement to run March 30. He will oppose Vancouver Democrat Pam Brokaw for the legislative post.

Curtis, 45, is an 11-year employee and captain with the Vancouver Fire Department.

Curtis said if elected, he will first focus on transportation, social services and helping military reservists.

The candidate said he would accelerate completion of the interchange at I-5 and NE 219th St., get rid of High Occupancy Vehicle lanes on I-5 and build a wider I-5 bridge to improve traffic flows to and from Portland. Curtis said these projects can bring jobs to communities as they eliminate traffic problems.

Light rail has never worked, said Curtis, adding that funds spent on failing rail projects should be used to improve highways.

Curtis said welfare abuses, with people getting state welfare without being required to verify social security numbers, should be prevented.

The state should not provide health care benefits to illegal aliens, said Curtis. Too many seniors who paid taxes all their lives can't afford food because of health care costs, he said.

"Our first responsibilities should be to seniors who paid into the system and taking care of our developmentally disabled citizens," said Curtis.

Curtis said military reservists called to active duty risk their lives and should not be forced to take drastic pay cuts that cause their families to suffer economic loss.

"I would introduce a bill to make up for lost incomes of activated state workers," said Curtis.

Private businesses should be encouraged to do the same thing, he said.

"I am a Republican because the majority of my beliefs follow Republican ideals of fiscal responsibility," said Curtis.

Curtis cited the state ferry system as an example of how the legislature in Olympia is unfair to Washington citizens.

The ferry system takes about 20 percent of the state transportation budget, while only about 1 percent of citizens benefit it, he said.

Curtis is married and lives with his wife and two daughters in La Center.

Utility will charge $3.50 monthly fee

Bill Myers, staff reporter

A new town ordinance in Yacolt requires septic system inspections at least every two years.

Acting to protect drinking water supplies, town council members approved an ordinance March 15 requiring on-site wastewater disposal system inspections that could be as frequent as once yearly.

The ordinance requires an interlocal agreement between Yacolt, Clark Public Utilities and the Clark County Health Department.

Utility officials manage the water supply in Yacolt. The town does not have a sewer system.

Yacolt residents, except for 15 citizens with aerobic treatment units (ATUs), rely on septic systems for waste water disposal.

Provisions in the ordinance require inspections of new on- site systems after the first six months of operation. Utility officials could then require yearly inspections if they believe conditions warrant.

The Utility will select licensed inspectors to perform inspections.

In recent months, several Yacolt homeowners signed easements granting Utility workers permission to install ports and risers on septic systems.

Property owners who do not grant permission are required by the ordinance to hire licensed inspectors to conduct inspections.

If on-site system problems are identified, the Health Department will notify the property owner in writing of remedial action required. Property owners will be given 15-90 days, depending on the degree of health risk, to fix problems.

The ordinance stipulates that owners of on-site systems pay a monthly on-site system inspection fee of $3.50. Owners of ATUs and owners who fail to allow Utility workers to inspect systems are not required to pay fees.

The Utility will include the fee as a separate charge on water bills.

Town clerk Brenda Finnegan said signed easements are still coming in. She could not estimate how many citizens will refuse to sign them.

Finnegan said licensed inspectors charge about $80 or $90 to inspect a septic system.

The ordinance provides for a fine of up to $1,000 on citizens who fail to have systems inspected on schedule or fail to correct an on-site waste water system problem. Utility water quality manager Steve Prather said the Yacolt program is a "proactive well-head protection effort."

Prather said the aquifer that provides water to community wells in Yacolt is only about 30 feet deep during rainy seasons.

The town had a history of elevated nitrate levels in the early 1990s, said Prather. He said current nitrate levels are at 2 to 3 milligrams per liter, well below a 10 milligram maximum allowed in public drinking water by federal Environmental Protection Agency guidelines.

Heidi Wallenborn, news director

It's been five years in the making, but Port of Ridgefield officials appear to be making headway on plans for a railroad overpass to bridge the Burlington Northern Santa Fe tracks and Lake River Industrial Park.

Congressman Brian Baird secured $1 million for an Environmental Impact Statement to determine the plan's feasibility, said Port executive director Brent Grening.

The funding would come through a federal transportation committee approval of $275 billion to be spent nationwide over the next six years.

Baird's portion is about $28.5 million to be spent on area transportation studies and improvements.

However, the Senate and House of Representatives still need to approve the total funding amount, said Grening and Baird.

Baird doesn't foresee any trouble. He said the committee's recommendation is similar to existing House and Senate proposals and priorities.

Grening is cautiously optimistic.

"The money will likely be available in January 2005," he said. "This is very, very good news, but it still has to go by the House and Senate."

Port commissioner Bruce Wiseman agreed.

"This is the first step," he said.

Plan drafted five years ago

Port commissioner Joe Melroy said a plan was drafted in February 1999 by Barbieri and Associates for an overpass extending from Pioneer St, providing access to the marina and Port, and closing both Mill and Division streets.

However, Melroy said he is concerned that closing Mill St. would cause people to walk directly across the tracks in order to visit the waterfront. He recommends fencing at both streets in front of the railroad tracks.

Discussions with Burlington Northern Santa-Fe officials in 2000 stalled after railroad officials failed to attend two meetings. City officials were no-shows as well.

Port commissioner Roy Randel said an overpass is critical to master planning of the Lake River Industrial Park on Division St.

Melroy believes the design is solid and Pioneer St. is where commissioners want it to take the heavy traffic off Main Ave.

Baird said the project would serve the Port, the city and the nearby National Wildlife Refuge. Other improvements included in the project are to widen Pioneer St., expand and realign exit ramps.

Other area projects are $10 million for an Environmental Impact Survey for an I-5 Columbia River crossing; $12.3 million for I-5/Salmon Creek area improvements; $5 million to move ahead on the I-5 Delta Park to Lombard project in Oregon; and $300,000 for an I-5/SR-503 interchange access study and development and modernization plans.

BG'S GARDNER CENTER IS "MEANT TO BE"

State grants road access off highway

Heidi Wallenborn, news director

Battle Ground is growing up.

Plans for family-centered entertainment center on the corner of SR-503 and NE 199th St. will be reality "come hell or high water" by May 2005, said developer Elie Kassab.

Ground breaking is expected to begin in late May this year.

State Department of Transportation officials recently gave the city of Battle Ground long sought-after permission for a road access break on SR-503 to east-west route Scotton Way, which made the project a reality.

That means a $10 million, eight-screen movie cinema, two or three restaurants, other cafes, sandwich shops and possibly a video arcade will be coming to the city under Kassab's direction with Prestidge Development.

A separate project to construct a 35,000 square-foot athletic facility complete with a junior-sized Olympic swimming pool will also move forward. Joe Melo of Recreational Design Services purchased land from Kassab north of the Gardner Center.

Recreational Design Services is the company that developed the facility now owned by Bally Total Fitness in Fisher's Landing.

"It's meant to be," Kassab said. "It's gonna' happen."

Year-long battle ends

Kassab purchased the 11-acre parcel last year for about $1.1 million from Dick and Betty Gardner.

Arguments began immediately with state Department of Transportation and Clark County officials for access from SR-503 and NE 199th St. Battle Ground owns a portion of NE 199th St., which also complicated access issues.

County and City officials granted access permission with conditions, such as a traffic study, but state officials held out.

Transportation officials held that only one access break per mile is allowed on state highways. The stretch from NE 199th St. to W Main St. is one mile, but city officials already have one access break at Rasmussen Blvd. in their 6-year transportation plan.

Kassab asked for a break on Scotton Way, about one-fourth mile south of Rasmussen, but to no avail.

However, in a March 24 letter to city manager Eric Holmes, Transportation project development manager Bart Gernhart granted permission for both access breaks.

Of two options given by Transportation officials, the city will allow Kassab to construct a "tee" intersection with Scotton Way, with right-in and right-out access from SR-503.

The road configuration will include median curbing, a deceleration lane and lighting.

No signal is required at this time, although it may be needed in two years, Kassab said, because of growth he expects his project will usher in.

"I'm still numb," Kassab said, one week later. "Once the state discovered the community needed this, they made the responsible decision. I asked for this on behalf of the community, not for me."

What will it look like?

Kassab considers himself a visionary for communities. He created a cine-plex in Sandy, OR, and a 12-screen, state-of-the-art movie theater with Rose's Deli in downtown Vancouver where he also owns the Murdock Executive Plaza.

Kassab said several companies are interested in locating in the Gardner Center, including Applebees, Boston's Gourmet Pizza, Pizza Scmizza, a bank, video arcade company, gelato ice cream and coffee store, Cold Stone Creamery and Baskin-Robbins. Rose's Deli and Subway sandwich shop are "for sure" deals, he said.

"People will be able to go in and have several restaurants to choose from, have dinner, a movie, coffee, dessert, walk around, have a business meeting, sit on a bench or at a coffee house with tables outside and enjoy themselves without having to go to Vancouver," Kassab said. "It will ease traffic on the roads and be a good thing for the community."

Life-sized bronze artwork will be interspersed throughout the site, some with fountain features, created by area artist Jim Demetro.

Front and center outside the movie theater will be Marilyn Monroe and Elvis Presley to greet patrons.

"I asked Jim what he wanted to do and that is what he chose," Kassab said. "Marilyn was very attractive and I personally liked her movies, and, well, Elvis is the King."

About three other statues will be made of historical figures.

"We want to make this a place for the family," Kassab said. "A place where kids can come and be safe and adults can enjoy themselves too."

NEW CEMETERY OWNERS SEEK UPDATES

Bill Myers, staff reporter

New owners of Memory Memorial Cemetery Park are seeking relatives of interred persons.

"We want to update names and addresses of next of kin to keep them advised of cemetery updates and memorial events," said cemetery manager Joey Fuerstenberg.

Fuerstenberg's parents, Bruce and Vicki Fuerstenberg, purchased the 11-acre cemetery at 6906 NE 144th St., Vancouver, last December.

Fuerstenberg said next of kin of deceased family members buried at the cemetery can take advantage of a new Cemetery Freedom of Choice Program.

The program allows next of kin to receive credit for an existing flat stone marker if they replace it with upright memorials. All original markers at the cemetery were flat stone markers.

Fuerstenberg said Cemetery records include names of persons who purchased plots, burial lot deed information, names of citizens who have reserved plots, identities of those interred and dates of internments.

Pre-arranged Memory Memorial Cemetery burial plots cost $750. Immediate need plots are $850.

Plots for cremated remains are $475 if pre-arranged, and $575 for those immediately needed.

Charges for internments in a six-tier mausoleum at the Cemetery start at $2,000.

Cemetery information is available at 573-3241.

LAWYER SAYS Q-PRIME COOKED TRAFFIC BOOKS

County asked to suspend or revoke Quincunx use permit

Bill Myers, staff reporter

Vancouver attorney John Karpinski believes Quincunx, the operator at the Amphitheater at Clark County, "cooked the traffic books."

In a March 25 letter to Clark County public works director Pete Capell, Karpinski described traffic problems during Amphitheater events as "a Titanic level of traffic meltdown," causing a significant adverse environmental impact and an "I-5 traffic meltdown."

Alleging misrepresentation or lack of material disclosure by Amphitheater officials, Karpinski said hearings examiner Larry Epstein should be given authority to suspend or revoke the permit at a public hearing scheduled for Thurs., April 22.

Heavy traffic during events overwhelmed the Sheriff's Office and repeatedly forced deputies to direct traffic to local streets which is in violation of a Conditional Use Permit, said Karpinski.

Representing Citizens for Transportation Safety, the lawyer said state law requires the County to withdraw a Mitigated Determination of Non-Significance (MDNS). The MDNS cleared the way for construction of the Amphitheater.

An Environmental Impact Statement for transportation is now required, said Karpinski.

Karpinski said suggested remedies for potential traffic problems outlined in a Conditional Use Permit issued to Quincunx in 1999 are not being adopted.

Possible remedial actions include road improvements, altering traffic control measures or reducing numbers of tickets sold.

Permit terms allow the County planning director to schedule a hearing before a County hearings examiner to consider suspending or revoking the Permit if the Amphitheater operator is unwilling or unable to mitigate adverse transportation impacts.

Karpinski said his clients are not asking that the Amphitheater be shut down.

"We are asking that the hearings examiner be given broad tools and authority to fix traffic problems at the hearing," he said.

County reaction

For the past two months, Amphitheater officials, along with State and County transportation officials, have met to discuss potential solutions to traffic problems before and after events.

County civil attorney Rich Lowery said an application submitted recently by Amphitheater officials to amend the Conditional Use Permit was based on discussions at the meetings and is under review by County staff members.

The request will require an updated environmental impact statement by County staff members, said Lowery.

At the April 22 hearing, Amphitheater officials plan to ask the hearings examiner to allow up to 1,400 vehicles to exit on roads west and south of the fairgrounds after events attended by 9,000 or more patrons, in no case more than 20 times yearly.

Potential cures discussed at meetings for pre-event traffic snarls include busing patrons to and from the venue, and passive detours for non-amphitheater motorists.

Lowery said giving the examiner authority to suspend or revoke Quincuncx's permit would be premature pending traffic modeling studies based on changes proposed in the application for an amendment to the Conditional Use Permit.

The public hearing before the hearings examiner will take place at 7 p.m. on the main-floor of the Clark County Licensing Building, 1408 Franklin St., Vancouver.

OBITS:

VIRGINIA CASEY

Virginia Mae (Randol) Casey, 79, died March 31, 2004 in Clackamas, OR.

Casey was born Aug. 20, 1924 in Cogswell, ND, and lived in Woodland for 43 years.

Casey was active in Eastern Star and the Ladies Auxillary of Veterans of Foreign Wars, Woodland. She enjoyed crossword puzzles, birds, gardening, going to the beach and making jewelry with glass beads.

Casey was preceded in death by her husband, Charles W. Casey, in 1975. Survivors include sons Larry Casey of Woodland, and Carl Casey and Chuck Casey, both of Oregon, sister Carolyn Cancilla of California, eight grandchildren and nine great-grandchildren.

The Woodland Funeral Home was in charge of arrangements.

ROBERT BERNA

Robert Eugene Berna, 44, died March 10, 2004 in Lakewood.

Berna was born July 10, 1959 in Hanford, CA, worked as a production laborer, and lived in Vancouver for two years before moving to Roy.

Berna enjoyed fishing, working outside, building fences, and yard work. He liked dogs, computer games, and football, especially the San Francisco 49ers. He enjoyed his family. He also liked to work on cars.

Berna was preceded in death by son Lenny Bo Berna in 2001. Survivors include widow Marjorie Wagner Berna, at home, step-father Jim Austin of Concrete, daughters Tiffany Berna of Concrete, Crystal Mell of California and Chelsea Berna of Roy, step-son Daniel Wagner of Roy, sisters Paul Kerekes and Judy Avila, both of California, and Sheila Jenkins, Lena Benefit and Janice Jenkins, all of Arkansas, brothers Russ Berna of Roy, Francis Berna of Concrete and James Berna of Arkansas, and one granddaughter. Graveside services were held at Mt. View Cemetery, Amboy, with Layne's Funeral Home, Battle Ground, in charge of arrangements.

ARTHUR STEPHENSON

Arthur James Stephenson, 79, died April 1, 2004 in Ridgefield.

Stephenson was born Aug. 22, 1924 in Robinson, ND, operated Stephenson's Meat Processing in Ridgefield for 30 years, and lived in Clark County for 56 years.

Stephenson attended Ridgefield United Methodist Church. He was a member of Bethany Lutheran Church in North Dakota. He was also a member of Carpenters Local 1715 Union. He enjoyed watching his grandchildren play sports and was a basketball player in his younger days. He liked to ride in the county to look at the county's progress. He was a sports fan and an Archie Bunker fan, and he enjoyed talking. He kept updated on local and national news. Voting was important to him.

Survivors include widow Marie Stephenson, at home, daughter Cathy Mayer of Ridgefield, sons Andy Stephenson, Doug Stephenson and Wally Stephenson, all of Ridgefield, sisters Agnes Herberg of Woodland, Selma Hermanson of Minnesota and Bernice Larson of Renton, brother Albert Stephenson of Vancouver, and eight grandchildren.

Funeral services will be held Sat., April 10, 11 a.m., at Ridgefield United Methodist Church, Ridgefield, with committal at Ridgefield Cemetery. Layne's Funeral Home, Battle Ground, is in charge of arrangements.

JOE DISON

Joe G. Dison, 72, died April 2, 2004 in Amboy.

Dison was born Dec. 12, 1931 in Anniston, Alabama, drove a tanker truck for Clark County road department, and lived in Clark County for 40 years.

Dison was a member of the Battle Ground Elks Lodge. He operated Joe's Sports Cards in Vancouver. He enjoyed fishing, coin collecting, buying collectibles for his grandchildren, working in the woods and cutting brush.

Dison was preceded in death by his wife, Lillie Dison, in 2002. Survivors include daughters Lea Robinson of Massachusetts and Jonni Allen of Brush Prairie, son Daniel Dison of Amboy, sisters Jackie Mitchell, Louise Constantino and Sue Rose, all of Alabama, and Gaynell Estle of California, brother Timothy Dison Jr. of California, and seven grandchildren.

Graveside services will be held Thurs., April 8, 2 p.m., at Elim Cemetery, Brush Prairie, with Layne's Funeral Home, Battle Ground, in charge of arrangements.

FRANK LACKAFF

Francis P. "Frank" Lackaff, 93, died April 3, 2004 in Vancouver.

Lackaff was born Nov. 26, 1910 in Vancouver, worked for the Clark County Assessor's Office for several years, and lived his Clark County his entire life.

Lackaff was a member of Knights of Columbus and Mazamas. He enjoyed mountain climbing, hiking, swimming, camping, hunting, fishing, photography, worked with numbers and flying airplanes.

Lackaff was preceded in death by his first wife, Evelyn (Lynch) Lackaff, in 1987, and second wife Alicia (Pettit) Lackaff in 2004. Survivors include daughters Sylvia Ricks of Belfair, Annette Lackaff of Portland and Mary Lackaff of New York, sons Peter Lackaff, Frank Lackaff Jr. and Fred Lackaff, all of Oregon, Dan Lackaff of New York, and Paul Lackaff and Robert Lackaff, both of Idaho, 23 grandchildren and 10 great-grandchildren.

Funeral services will be held Wed., April 7, 11 a.m., at St. May of Guadalupe Catholic Church, Ridgefield, with burial to follow at St. Mary of Guadalupe Catholic Cemetery, Ridgefield. Hamilton-Mylan Funeral Home, Vancouver is in charge of arrangements.

FRANK TIKKA JR.

Frank Tikka Jr.,. 60, died April 4, 2004 in Battle Ground.

Tikka was born March 1, 1944 in Vancouver, worked in construction, and lived in Clark County for 25 years before moving to Hardin, Montana.

Tikka drove a truck and did engine repair and yardwork.

Tikka loved visiting with family and friends. He enjoyed hunting, fishing, the outdoors and training dogs. He was a member of the Old Apostolic Lutheran Church.

Survivors include widow Lucy Tikka, at home in Hardin, MT, daughter Alyce Timmons of Vancouver, sons Travis Tikka of the Marshall Islands, Robin Tikka of La Center, and Clayton Tikka of La Center, step-sons Garrett Stops and Conrad Stops, both of Montana, step-daughter Lillian "Princess" Arias of California, sisters Gail Tapani and Gwen Shackleton, both of Battle Ground, Heidi Wilson of Davenport, Norma Moier of Woodland, Twila Hendrickson of Minnesota, Marlene Kadow of Vancouver, Becky Swafford of Yacolt, and Della Massie of Brush Prairie, brothers Gerald Tikka and Vaughn Tikka, both of Battle Ground, Gordon Tikka of Tri-Cities, Steven Tikka and Myron Tikka, both of Yacolt, and Loren Tikka of Amboy, two grandchildren and 12 step-grandchildren.

Funeral services will be held Wed., April 7, 1 p.m., at Old Apostolic Lutheran Church, 16603 NE 142nd Ave., Brush Prairie, with committal following at Gravel Point Cemetery, Battle Ground. Layne's Funeral Home, Battle Ground, is in charge of arrangements.

"HANK" HELSER JR.

Henry "Hank" W. Helser Jr., 65, died April 2, 2004 in Battle Ground.

Helser was born July 27, 1938 in Portland, worked as a butcher, and lived in Clark County for 57 years.

Helser enjoyed hunting and salmon fishing in the Columbia River. He enjoyed going to the beach. He liked watching baseball and football on television. He had served in the U.S. Army.

Survivors include daughters Sherry Dwornik, Karie Strahan, Jodi Britton and Tamra Clark, all of Texas, son Henry W. Helser III of Texas, brother Gary Helser of Vancouver, and 14 grandchildren.

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

BETTY BISH0P

Betty Louise Bishop, 72, died March 28, 2004 at home in Amboy.

Bishop was born Feb. 24, 1932 in Los Angeles, CA, and lived in Amboy for 27 years.

Bishop enjoyed fishing, boating, reading and doing handwork.

Bishop was preceded in death by her husband, James Bishop, in 1996. Survivors include sons Rob Bishop of Vancouver and Jack Bishop, daughter Gail Bishop of California, sister Valeria Utley of California, four grandchildren and five great-grandchildren.

Graveside services were held at View Cemetery, Amboy, with Memorial Gardens Funeral Chapel, Vancouver, in charge of arrangements.

DENNIS TYRRELL

Dennis E. Tyrrell, 53, died March 20, 2004 in Pawtucket, RI.

Tyrrell was born Dec. 27, 1950 in Vancouver, and graduated from La Center High School. He had served in Turkey with the U.S. Air Force. He had worked for Astra Pharmaceutical Co. is Massachusetts, and was self-employed in Pawtucket. He enjoyed traveling and had been to Brazil and Argentina. He also liked to play state lotteries.

Tyrrell was preceded in death by a sister. Survivors include brothers Jerry Tyrrell of Woodland, Lance Tyrrell of Massachusetts and Donald Tyrrell of Oregon, and foster sister Verline Turnock of Oregon.

Private services for his cremated remains were held at Mountain View Cemetery, Amboy, with Costigan-O'Neill Funeral Home, Pawtucket, RI in charge of arrangements.

JOSEPHINE NICKELS

Josephine Mary (Coleman) Nickels, 92, died March 28, 2004 at home in Ridgefield.

Nickels was born Dec. 30, 1911 in The Dalles, OR, owned and operated the Sara Store for 13 years, and lived in Ridgefield for 70 years.

Nickels was a member of the Ridgefield United Methodist Church, Sara Grange and the Clark County Saddle Club. She enjoyed her family, horses, gardening, traveling with her husband, and her home.

Nickels was preceded in death by her husband, Charles J. Nickels in 1999, brother Warren Coleman and sister Irene Danner. Survivors include daughters Joyce Nickels of Seattle and Joanne Hildman of Ridgefield, sister Frances Morgenstern of Wenatchee, two grandchildren and one great-grandchild.

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

RONALD HUSTON

Ronald Ray Huston, 56, died March 31, 2004 in Woodland.

Huston was born June 12, 1947 in Vancouver, worked as a custodian for Encore Industries, and lived in Vancouver his entire life.

Huston was active in Special Olympics bowling. He enjoyed bowling, fishing, Portland wrestling, bicycling and the Harlem Globetrotters.

Huston was preceded in death by sister Carol Huston in 2000. Survivors include brother Jerry Huston of Woodland, and sisters Lois Moffat and Janice Deuth, both of Vancouver, and Elaine Blair of Woodland.

Graveside serves were held at Evergreen Memorial Gardens Cemetery, with Memorial Gardens Funeral Chapel in charge of arrangements.