BOMBARDIER BLAMES PORT, POLICE FOR OUSTER

Heidi Wallenborn, news director

Three days after Ridgefield officials issued a statement that former city manager Randy Bombardier had been paid $85,000 and had released the city from all liability, someone issued a press release stating Bombardier is "keeping his options open concerning future legal action."

The release was written in third person, smattered with quotes from Bombardier, and presented on letterhead from Bombardier's Vancouver attorney Gregory Ferguson.

However, the release has no author's name and is not signed.

When asked if his firm authorized the release, knew about it or sent it, Ferguson repeatedly replied, "It's on our letterhead."

When asked who wrote the release, Ferguson said, "no comment."

When asked about some statements in the release, Ferguson said, "Mr. Bombardier is entitled to his opinion."

Port of Ridgefield, police chief blamed

The press release author says Bombardier is "extremely disheartened" by an alleged breach of a Confidentiality Agreement by the city's written release of information regarding the settlement.

The writer says Bombardier believes it necessary to "set the record straight."

The writer says Bombardier's "ouster" was orchestrated by police chief Bruce Hall, and that Bombardier was "targeted" by the Port of Ridgefield and outside developers "as one of the last remaining obstacles in their agenda to permit urban sprawl in the Ridgefield Junction area."

Allegations include that the Port and outside developers intend to take control of utilities from the city.

The writer states Bombardier is "convinced that the Port cares nothing for the City of Ridgefield, its obligations for service or its citizens."

In the release, Bombardier is quoted, "The $85,000 that the City paid to settle the matter speaks volumes to the merits of my defense, and the Port's desperate desire to begin feeding the wolves that have been salivating at the City's doorstep for several months."

The release also states that Bombardier "has gotten wind of a `coup' that occurred" in the city of Forks where Hall also served as police chief before being hired by Ridgefield in 2000.

Accusations are that Hall and current interim Ridgefield attorney Eileen Lawrence carried out the "coup" together.

The writer also states that although Ridgefield officials contend there is an ongoing Department of Ecology investigation of improper removal of lead-based paint in city hall in June 2002, "there is no evidence that a case number has even been assigned" to an investigation, and that the belief of a formal inquiry is not substantiated.

The writer also states that lead-based paint is not considered hazardous waste, according to the Environmental Protection Agency.

The accused answers

Brent Grening, Port executive director, said he's not sure "why the Port is being brought into this."

"The Port has no control over water and sewer, that's city business and for them to decide," he said. "As for `the wolves,' I don't even know what that means. The city supported Clark County's growth management plan. What does that have to do with the Port? How can the Port control the city's boundary?"

"I'm not even sure it's worth the time to respond to this," he added. "This is supposed to come from a law office? This is amazing."

Regarding an alleged "coup" in Forks, Hall said he was hired in Forks in 1997 after an "extensive, selective process" after the police chief resigned.

After taking over, he noticed there were evidence room improprieties and asked the State Patrol to investigate the staff member in charge of the evidence room and perform an audit, Hall said.

"There were found to be hundreds of articles missing," Hall said. "As a result, the personnel who handled the evidence room resigned."

When contacted by this newspaper, Eileen Lawrence said she was not involved in that Forks investigation.

Although Bombardier and his attorneys claim there is no Ecology investigation underway, Ridgefield officials differ.

According to Hall, his department was asked by Fox, at Ecology's request, to assist in the follow-up investigation on alleged improper removal of lead-based paint on the front of city hall two years ago.

Hall assigned an officer to the job which is currently underway and includes second interviews with witnesses and evidence collection.

In fact, Hall said, in the last week lead-based paint chips and debris were found in and outside of city hall and in the basement that were not disposed of properly or contained by Environmental Protection Agency standards.

Fox said Certified Consultants, Inc. of Vancouver has been hired to scope all surfaces and "make sure there's no problems."

A contractor will be hired to properly dispose of the debris, Fox said.

"The investigation is still underway and the officer is working directly with the [state and federal] Environmental Crimes Task Force," Hall said.

Gerd Hattwig, Environmental Crimes Task Force head for Ecology, said he "can neither confirm nor deny" whether an investigation is underway.

Ferguson, one of two attorneys hired by Bombardier, said, "We have information to believe the status of the investigation is false," but would not comment further.

Fox said, "We consider matters between the city and Mr. Bombardier to be concluded. Other than that, the city has no comment."

Ferguson said Bombardier just "wants to walk away, wants this resolved finally and completely."

When asked if the press release with accusations was a good way to do that, Ferguson replied, "No comment."

Bombardier is currently one of seven finalists for a job as Jefferson County administrator in Port Townsend with a top salary of nearly $85,000. He is also one of 39 candidates for a city manager position in Williston, FL with a top salary of about $60,000.

HAWK MAY BE OUT AS BGHS COACH

by Jake Maxwell

Battle Ground High School officials have recommended that the contract of varsity basketball coach Bill Hawk not be renewed, according to Battle Ground School District public information officer Kelly O'Brien-Keister.

After notice of last week's recommendation not to renew Hawk's contract was sent to the district's Human Resources department, legal questions arose regarding the decision, said O'Brien-Keister.

At this stage, a school district attorney is reviewing the legality of the decision and will have a recommendation by April 28, O'Brien-Keister said.

If the attorney affirms the legality of the recommendation, it would then move on to the school board for approval.

According to O'Brien-Keister, the reason given to the district by school officials for the non-renewal of Hawk's contract was a desire to "go in a different direction with the program. There didn't seem to be a match."

Hawk's position as an English teacher would be reposted as part of the retire-rehire program, said O'Brien-Keister.

WATER FLOWS AGAIN FROM KLAGER WINDMILL

The landmark windmill at the Hulda Klager farm in Woodland is pumping water after years of dormancy.

Machinist Alan Schurman spent a year and a half searching for authentic parts, not willing to replace gears and other parts with modern equipment.

Schurman estimates the windmill was constructed in the 1920s, and may not have worked for more than 50 years. Hulda Klager died in 1960.

The blade and gear assembly were manufactured by Star and Walling company which last made windmills in 1929, according to Fran Northcut of the Hulda Klager Lilac Society.

Schurman said the windmill is 55 feet tall, which is taller than most other windmills in the area which rise to no more than 40 feet.

Schurman theorizes that the windmill was not properly lubricated and ran out of oil in a storm. The result was ruined bearings and a "pulverized gear box."

Schurman used original windmill parts to build a new gear box. The replacement parts were not exactly the same as the original, said Schurman, so "I modified and made it go."

A used gear box came from another windmill. The wooden stick that connects the blades to the crank also needed to be replaced, as did the cylinder that contains the plunger at the well.

Schurman installed the new cylinder partly under ground and partly above ground.

The water pump can be operated either by hand, such as when the wind is calm, or driven by the windmill.

The pump was also missing when Schurman began his work. "I found an old pump that's appropriate for it," said Schurman.

The well below the windmill is shallow, said Schurman, at only about 20 feet deep. Water is present at about 10 feet, he said.

On April 20, Schurman climbed the windmill to complete some final connections, and water began to flow. As the wind picked up, the pump went to work.

Schurman explained that windmills were constructed with step-type ladders to allow for lubrication and maintenance. While he used a power man-lift machine for much of the work, he also climbed the structure's ladder as necessary.

The blades, tail and gear box weigh 300-400 pounds, said Schurman, requiring the use of a man-lift.

In all, Schurman said he spent 150 hours over 1 1/2 years repairing the windmill. "It was a frustrating, long term project," said Schurman, who found the result to be very satisfying.

In the heyday of windmills, water was pumped into tall tanks constructed alongside windmills. The tanks gave gravity pressure to feed the needs of the nearby home.

The Hulda Klager windmill has such a tank. Schurman said the Klager farm might choose in the future to pump water into that tank.

Northcut said funding for reconstruction of the windmill came from Southwest Washington Forward Thrust (SWIFT), the Marie Heermann family, Margaret Hepola and the Colf family, Bruce Beamer, and donation jars placed around the area. Schurman did the work at cost, said Northcut.

Northcut said an Eagle scout will replace the ladder on the storage tank and reconstruct the tank itself so that water could be pumped into the tank in the future.

Schurman operates Paul Schurman Machine in Ridgefield, and he operates the Iron Ranch across the street, a collection of steam equipment and other machinery dating from the 1880s to the 1940s.

Schurman has a windmill at his Iron Ranch and at one time had sought to purchase the Klager windmill.

The Hulda Klager Lilac Gardens remains open daily through May 9 for the annual Lilac Days.

BG CHAMBER ENDORSES SCHOOL BOND

The Battle Ground Chamber of Commerce has announced its support for the upcoming Battle Ground School District construction bond measure.

Chamber executive director Terri Tweedell said significant growth in Battle Ground schools has resulted in a shortage of schools. Tweedell said improvements are also needed at existing buildings.

"Our children need an environment conducive to learning," said Tweedell. "We can provide this by voting yes on the upcoming bond measure."

The $55 million Battle Ground School District bond is slated for a vote in May. The money would be used to construct new schools, rebuild some existing schools, buy land for schools and make repairs at some schools.

The Chamber membership voted support for the bond measure at an April 1 meeting.

PARADES SET THEMES, INVITE PARTICIPANTS

The community parade season is at hand, and entrants are invited to sign up to participate.

Here's a round-up of parade dates, themes, and contact information. Entry forms for most parades are or will be available at The Reflector in Battle Ground.

Evergreen Fair

The Evergreen Fair and parade leads off the summer season on Sat., May 8. The 10 a.m. parade has the theme, "A Community That Cares."

The parade will begin at Wy'east Middle School, move south on 136th Ave., east on McGillivray, north on Blairmont Dr., and end at Mt. View High School. Grand marshal is Bud Pasmore, one of the founding members of the Evergreen Community Festival. He is also active in the Walk and Knock program.

Parade entry forms are available by calling 604-4052.

Most Evergreen Fair events will take place at Mt. View High School, 1500 SE Blairmont Dr., Vancouver, including a petting zoo, bike rodeo, fun run and walk, and craft and antique fair.

Hazel Dell Parade of Bands

The annual Hazel Dell Parade of Bands will take place Sat., May 15, beginning at 10:30 a.m.

The parade will form at Fire District 6 station at 88th St. and Hazel Dell Ave. Theme this year is "Celebrate," with grand marshal Jim Collins.

Entry forms are available at The Reflector in Battle Ground. Information, Dellan Redjou, 696-0456.

Hockinson Fun Days

"Country Fair" is the theme of the annual Hockinson Fun Days parade set for noon Sat., June 5. Entry forms are available at all Hockinson schools and businesses, and at The Reflector in Battle Ground.

The parade will form at Hockinson High School, travel east to NE 182nd Ave., then north to 169th St. Information, Lynne VanBuskirk, 883-9031.

Woodland Planters Days

"Fun, Memories & More in 2004" is the theme of this year's Planters Days parade in Woodland, which will take place Sat., June 19, 11 a.m.

The parade will form on Davidson, and follow the same route as past years.

Entry forms are available in Woodland at city hall, Chamber of Commerce, and JJ Computers, and at The Reflector in Battle Ground.

Information, JJ Burke, 225-9888.

Washougal Frontier Days

An 11 a.m. parade will be part of the annual Washougal Frontier Days celebration on Sat., June 26.

Parade theme is "The Days of Lewis and Clark." The parade will form on "B" St.

Entry forms and information are available from Terri Angel, (360) 835-5115, (360) 835-9653.

Ridgefield Fourth of July

The Ridgefield Fourth of July parade will take place Sat., July 3, 11 a.m.

Information, Lisa Detchman, 887-0765.

Amboy Territorial Days

The annual Amboy Territorial Days parade is set for 10 a.m. Sat., July 10, forming on SR-503 and traveling west to the Territorial Days grounds.

Theme this year is "Country Living," and grand marshal will be Lester Courtney.

Entry information is available from Nancy Buckbee, 247-5312.

Kalama Community Fair

An 11 a.m. parade will be part of the annual Kalama Community Fair on Sat., July 17, with the theme, "Mid Summer Dreamin' in Kalama." Grand marshal will be Scott Merwin.

The parade will form on the frontage road on west side of freeway and follow the usual route.

Entry information and forms are available by calling Cleone Kockritz, 673-4869.

Battle Ground Harvest Days

Battle Ground's Harvest Days parade is set for Sat., July 17, 10 a.m., as part of the community's annual celebration.

Theme of this year's parade is "There's no place like home." Entry forms are available at the Chamber of Commerce, 912 E Main St., (687-1510), or The Reflector.

The parade will form at several locations on W Main St., travel east to Clark Ave., and return west of N 1st St. Entry deadline is June 25.

Castle Rock Fair

The Castle Rock Fair includes a parade at 7 p.m. Thurs., July 22, with the theme, "We'll Soar in 2004."

Entry information and forms are available by calling Yvonne Knuth, (360) 274-8422.

Camas Days

The annual Camas Days celebration includes a parade set for Sat., July 24, 11 a.m., with the theme, "Childhood Memories."

The parade will form at Oak and 4th, and follow the same route as in past years.

Entry forms are available at the Camas Chamber of Commerce, (360) 834-2472.

La Center Our Days

The annual La Center Our Days festival is set for Sat., July 24, with a 10 a.m. parade using the theme, "The Little Town That Could."

The parade will form at La Center High School and disband on 4th St. downtown. Walter Hansen will be the grand marshal.

Entry forms and information are available by calling Shelly White, 263-3701. Forms are also available at The Reflector in Battle Ground.

VOLUNTEER HONORED AS KALAMA CITIZEN OF THE YEAR

Scott Merwin was named Kalama Citizen of the Year at a ceremony held March 20.

Merwin and his wife, Laurie, own the Kalama Hardware store. They have lived in the community for 12 years.

Merwin was selected for his support of high school sports, Little League, Kalama Fair, Lions Club, Veterans of Foreign Wars, high school drama, senior drug and alcohol-free parties, Totem Pole organization and the Chamber of Commerce.

Merwin is also active in the annual antique and car show, and has supported the Boys Scouts and Girl Scouts.

Merwin volunteers at both the Kalama elementary and high schools. He has served as scorekeeper for wrestling, baseball and basketball events. He operates the barbecue at school events, and volunteers for work parties to clean up buildings and grounds. He drives a team van to sporting events.

Merwin works with school children building birdhouses, and chaperones school dances. He is instrumental in the annual Walk and Knock food drive. And he directs and judges the Kalama Fair parade.

At the March 20 awards program, the Totem Award for group effort went to the Kalama Lions Club for its serve over a many year period.

BRIA NOT PICKED FOR COLORADO JOB

Shonny Bria will remain superintendent of the Battle Ground School District--at least for now.

Bria was not chosen last week for a superintendency in Fort Collins, CO where she was one of three finalists.

She was previously one of six finalists for a similar position in Scottsdale, AZ, but was not selected.

Bria said she has not applied for any other positions.

Bria was philosophical about not being chosen for the two positions.

"I believe because I was not offered a position two times around, that I was given a message that I have unfinished work here in the Battle Ground School District," said Bria, who described herself as a religious person.

Bria said she was humbled by being named a finalist in Arizona and Colorado. She said al three finalist for the Colorado position had similar views and gave similar answers during interviews.

Bria said she did not intend to seek other positions in the future "unless I receive a message that there is a school district I should apply for."

"I've got to believe there was a strong message to stay here in Battle Ground."

Bria said her husband was "delighted" with the result. "We both celebrated," said Bria. "And I slept well for the first time in two weeks."

Bria said her motivation for returning to Arizona, or going to Colorado, is the retirement program that is more lucrative than the program in Washington.

Bria, 56, worked as an educator in Arizona for 25 years before taking the Battle Ground superintendency in 1998.

Retirement benefits in Colorado are similar to those in Arizona. If she returned to Arizona, she could retire in three years at about $5,000 a month. Colorado recognizes a portion of her Arizona experience. Retiring in Colorado would result in a benefit of more than $4,000 a month.

But if she retired in Washington in three more years, she would receive about $1,400 a month in retirement benefits.

"Maybe retirement (benefits) are not an important as I thought," said Bria, who noted that her husband is nearly finished with medical studies and could soon open a clinic in Clark County.

Bria said he had high regard for Vickie Markavitch who was named to the Fort Collins post.

Bria described the three finalists as "kindred spirits." All three have masters degrees in special education, and doctorates. When one answered a question first, the other two pretty much agreed, said Bria of the Fort Collins interview process. "They are classy women," said Bria of Markavitch and Kathy Arnett.

Bria said he intends to focus on the upcoming bond election and other matters at hand in the Battle Ground School District.

Sam Kim, president of the Battle Ground School Board, had directed the school district attorney to look for ways the district could retain Bria if she were selected for the Arizona or Colorado positions.

Area residents cite loud car stereos, shouts, litter

Bill Myers, staff reporter

A parade of citizens at an April 22 hearing opposed traffic from the Amphitheater at Clark County exiting the venue into neighborhoods west of the Clark County Fairgrounds.

County hearings examiner Larry Epstein heard legal arguments and citizen comments on a request from officials of Amphitheater operator Quincunx to amend a Conditional Use Permit issued in 1999.

The 1999 document, issued by Epstein, said exiting traffic would use NE 179th St. to reach I-5.

After well-attended events during the 2003 season, several patrons waited for hours in the Fairgrounds parking lots to leave.

Consultants underestimated the number of patrons who would arrive from the south, and they said they overestimated occupants per car.

After concerts, thousands of exiting patrons needed access to southbound I-5. Several waited in parking lots because the southbound on-ramp at NE 179th St. can handle only 2,000 cars per hour.

In a request to amend the permit, Amphitheater attorney Randall Prinz asked that exiting patrons be allowed to turn west on NW 179th St. between 11 p.m. and 1 a.m. after 20 concerts per year.

Sheriff's deputies and barriers would guide exiting patrons west of NW 179th St., then south on NW 11th Ave. to NW 149th St., south on NW 10th Ave. to NW 134th St. and then to the freeway. Prinz said if the permit amendment is approved, the Amphitheater operator will install luminous center striping and roadside reflectors on NW 11th Ave. to improve safety on the 18-foot road. Guard rails on the road at Whipple Creek would also be installed, said Prinz.

On April 7, Clark County staff members issued a Determination of Nonsignificance saying that re-routed traffic would not have a significant environmental impact.

Attorney calls for long-term fix

Vancouver attorney John Karpinski, who filed a formal appeal to the Determination, said Epstein should look at all traffic issues and order a long-term fix.

Karpinski said he disagreed that the examiner should focus on exit only.

Representing Citizens for Transportation Safety, Karpinski said he needed more time to study materials requested from the County under public disclosure laws and a traffic engineer's report.

More time is also needed to study noise issues, said the attorney.

Karpinski said the planned route is a back-up emergency, route for concert traffic.

"What do we do if it gets all plugged up?" he asked.

Karpinski said Amphitheater traffic controllers could have Sheriff's deputies route traffic to the west at anytime by creating an "artificial crisis."

Other solutions to traffic problems that were identified in the permit should be used, said Karpinski. These include limiting ticket sales and building improved roadways such as another ramp to I-5.

"People that live in the area deserve a real solution," said Karpinski.

Fairgrounds Neighborhood Association spokesperson Bridget Schwarz said area residents complained when post-venue traffic entered neighborhoods last year.

Schwarz said residents described loud car stereos, people shouting and blowing horns, litter that included beer cans, dirty diapers and lights (including flashing and rotating emergency lights) entering bedrooms.

Lisa Kuhlman, who lives near 11th Ave. and NW 199th St., described post-venue traffic as a "nightmare."

Another area resident said the traffic noise causes neighborhood dogs to start barking.

Area resident Len Dozier said Amphitheater officials should consider renting up to 300 school buses to transport patrons.

Art Stubbs of Neighborhood Associations of Clark County said his group represents 35 area neighborhood associations.

"There were material violations of standards last year," said Stubbs. "Now they want to make prohibited traffic permissible."

Ridgefield resident Jim Rombach said Amphitheater officials repeatedly said roads west of the Fairgrounds would not be used.

Fire or medical response vehicles will have difficulty if they conflict with Amphitheater traffic on NW 11th Ave., said Rombach.

Peter Kaseberg said he is a highway engineer and knows NW 11th Ave., with no shoulders and sharp drop-offs at the sides of the road, will not be safe for exiting patrons.

Area resident Darryl Badger said Amphitheater officials promised they would not use [the roads]. They're taking the cheapest way out at the cost of their integrity, said Badger.

Epstein said he will hold the record open for public comments until Thurs., May 6, at 4:30 p.m. Comments should be sent to Richard Daviau, Department of Community Development, 1300 Franklin St., P.O. Box 9810, Vancouver WA 98666-9810.

Epstein said he will give Amphitheater officials until Thurs., May 20, to respond before he issues a decision.

Even if bond passes, new numbers show a second bond could be needed in three years

Marcus Brotherton, staff reporter

Battle Ground School Board members looked stunned April 19 while taking their first look at new enrollment projections.

The newest information shows that even if a proposed bond passes May 18, a second bond to build more schools could be needed in as few as three years.

"I'm shocked," said Board member Fred Striker.

"This is staggering," said Board member Karen Lehman.

"[Battle Ground] is definitely the growth area," said Board chairman Sam Kim. "This is not an exaggeration."

Vancouver attorney Denise Stiffarm provided the numbers on behalf of the Consortium of Clark County School Districts. Stiffarm prepared a report to address the potential effects of the Clark County Commissioner's January 2004 proposed Urban Growth Area update recommendations.

Charts projected numbers of students coming from potential rural housing units. Rural numbers were only recently provided by the County, wrote Stiffarm in a summary to Sandra Towne, County Department of Community Development representative.

Lynn Hicks, District assistant superintendent in charge of District business and operations, said she first saw the numbers the morning of April 19.

"We're working hard to manage growth and be responsible to taxpayers," Hicks said. "It's a challenge."

Hicks said Bond Committee members worked with conservative projections which came from the state when calculating District needs for the current bond proposal.

By using state projections, Hicks said, committee members could maximize state matching dollars to their fullest extent.

The state calculates its enrollment projections based on estimated growth rates of current enrollment numbers, Hicks said. The County uses a different method that factors into the equation land earmarked for housing starts.

District representative Kelly Keister, who facilitated Bond Committee meetings, said bond planners knew that regardless of the bond's passage, new schools will be at or over capacity when built.

"The committee had a strong sense we had to deal with the kids who are here now," Keister said. "It's true--this bond primarily addresses immediate needs."

Stiffarm's report gives a clearer indication of how much over capacity the new schools will be.

The report shows potentially 3,214-3,758 additional students coming into the District by 2010. Previous calculations in District reports projected only 1,600 students.

The District currently educates about 12,400 students and is about 1,900 students over capacity.

If the bond passes May 18, capacity will be added for about 2,300 students.

The current bond proposal calls for two new K-8 schools, with capacity added at Amboy Middle, Lewisville Middle and Battle Ground High School. Other remodeling and upgrade projects are included in the bond but will not add capacity. Most construction will be completed by 2007 and 2008.

Stiffarm's report projects an additional need for one new K-4 school, two new K-8 schools and one new high school, in addition to capacity added by the proposed bond.

If it passes, the current bond will raise $55 million over 15-20 years. New schools in Stiffarm's proposal could cost $70 million on top of that.

For new schools to meet growth projections and be built by 2010, another bond would need to be passed by about 2007.

The situation may not be as staggering as first glance indicates, say school officials. If 3,500 new students show up, theoretically, more taxpayers will also show up along with more impact fees and additional commercial base to help spread out tax loads.

Battle Ground currently has one of the lowest bond rates in Clark County at 68 cents per $1,000 assessed property value, second to the Green Mountain School District.

PRAIRIE SCIENCE OLYMPIAD HEADS TO NATIONALS

Marcus Brotherton, staff reporter

Twenty students from Prairie High School are set to compete in national Science Olympiad competitions May 20-21 in Huntingdon, PA.

The group won state level competitions to qualify for the event.

This is the fifth consecutive year Prairie has taken state. Prairie took fourth in nationals in 2003.

The Science Olympiad program is an international, nonprofit organization dedicated to improving the quality of science education by increasing student interest.

Prairie principal Greg Parcher called Science Olympiad one of the school's most outstanding clubs.

"It's just an incredible experience to see [these students'] dedication to their projects," Parcher said at an April 19 Battle Ground School District board meeting. "It's no accident they got first at state."

At the meeting, team members discussed and demonstrated some of their projects to Board members.

Students have made musical instruments, analyzed satellite photos, built catapults, reported on forestry trends, researched diseases, studied the physics of bottle rocket trajectories and more.

Sophomore Sean Pickup showed Board members a robot he made that collects various objects and dumps them in a container as part of a timed competition.

Board member Sam Kim, who also works for Hewlett Packard, praised the students' creativity and accomplishments.

"Speaking as a software engineer and manager," Kim said, "this is where it all begins. You guys have a tremendous future ahead of you."

The Prairie team is coached by teacher David Lemberg.

To go to nationals, the team raised some $10,500 through various fundraisers all year. About $3,500 is still needed.

To donate, contact David Lemberg at Prairie High School, 11500 NE 117th Ave., Vancouver, 885-5083, e-mail: lemberg.david@bgsd.k12.wa.us

CURTIS ANNOUNCES FOR 18TH DISTRICT

Bill Myers, staff reporter

La Center city council member Richard Curtis has announced that he will run for the District 18 representative position being vacated by Tom Mielke.

Mielke wants to capture the Clark County commissioner post held by Betty Sue Morris.

Curtis is a republican and two-year city council member. The 45-year-old candidate is an 11-year employee and fire captain with the Vancouver Fire Department.

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

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

Light rail has never worked, said Curtis. Funds wasted on rail projects should be used to improve highways, he said.

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 those who paid into the system and to our developmentally disabled citizens," said Curtis.

Curtis said military reservists on active duty risk their lives and should not be forced to take 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. He said private businesses should do the same thing.

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

Curtis cited the Washington State Ferry system as an example of how legislators are unfair to Washington citizens. The ferry system takes about 20 percent of the state transportation budget, and benefits about 1 percent of the people, he said.

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

OPEN HOUSE WILL AIR AMPHITHEATER TRAFFIC DETOURS

Bill Myers, staff reporter

Traffic signs and maps showing detours around the Amphitheater at Clark County will be showcased Thurs., April 29, at an open house in Salmon Creek.

The open house is one link in a chain of events as state and County transportation officials attempt to unravel traffic snarls before and after Amphitheater events.

Another link is being forged by County hearings examiner Larry Epstein who is considering evidence and testimonies presented at an April 22 hearing.

That hearing was prompted when Amphitheater officials sought to modify a Conditional Use Permit and allow up to 1,400 vehicles to head west through residential neighborhoods after Amphitheater events.

At the hearing, several fairgrounds-area residents objected to late-night Amphitheater traffic in their neighborhoods after receiving assurances before Amphitheater construction that this would not happen.

"Best ideas to date"

State Department of Transportation and County officials will display their "best ideas to date" at the open house for avoiding traffic gridlock before and after concerts, said Amy Echols, Transportation communications manager for the state Department of Transportation.

Echols said the open house won't be a forum for public comments, however transportation officials will listen to constructive suggestions on signs and detour routes.

State and County officials will jointly host the open house because the entities have separate jurisdictions and priorities over roadways.

State officials want to keep I-5 flows safe and uninterrupted, said Echols. They also have jurisdiction over SR-502, also known as NE 219th St. and NE 10th Ave.

County Public Works Department transportation specialists have jurisdiction over other roads and traffic through residential neighborhoods.

In addition to showcasing entrance and exit detour routes and signs, officials will provide information about area access passes during event traffic periods, said Echols.

Detours tested before and after an April 11 Easter service were effective, but signage needs to be improved, said Echols.

Maps showing detour routes and samples of improved signs will be displayed at the open house.

The 5-7:30 p.m. event will take place at Alki Middle School commons areas, 1800 NW Bliss Road, Vancouver. Echols can be reached for information at 905-2058.

MEETING TO AIR DUNHAM AVE. PROJECT

Bill Myers, staff reporter

Woodland Public Works Department staff members will host a public meeting Thurs., April 29, on a project that will replace three blocks of downtown Dunham Ave.

Public Works spokesperson Jody Stout said staff members will review the project design at the meeting and discuss construction impacts to area residents.

Stout said 37 residences and four businesses were notified of potential access problems during construction, targeted for completion in October 2004.

Workers will completely reconstruct Dunham Ave. from Second St. to Fifth St., and install new water, sewer and drainage facilities, including curbs and gutters. They will also construct sidewalks accessible to handicapped persons.

Stout said funding sources for the $508,500 project include a $300,000 Community Development Block Grant received in 2003, and $208,500 from city water, sewer and street funds.

Gibbs and Olson, a consulting engineering firm in Longview, will oversee project construction.

The meeting will be at 7 p.m. in the Woodland City Council Chambers, 100 Davidson Ave. Information telephone is (360) 225-7999.

WOODLAND PLANNERS MULL SIGN ORDINANCE

Bill Myers, staff reporter

Woodland planning commissioners meeting April 13

attempted to put finishing touches on a revised city sign ordinance.

Proposed changes in the ordinance would add definitions of 34 terms, including "awnings," "banners," "facade" and "changing image signs."

The new ordinance would allow signs up to 30 feet tall in highway commercial districts, and signs up to 45 feet tall for businesses located within 500 feet of the center line of I-5. The height limit in the existing ordinance is 25 feet.

Another change would allow freestanding or pole signs in specified commercial and industrial districts.

The proposed ordinance would require shielding or shading of light from illuminated signs, and prohibit rotating, flashing or blinking lights except with defined sign characteristics in highway commercial districts.

A proposed maximum size of changing-imaging signs is 16 square feet with a one-color message area.

New provisions would allow businesses to have off-site signs under certain circumstances.

Most of several proposed changes to the ordinance will give business owners more leeway on sign placements and sizes, said city code enforcement officer/planning assistant Nancy Nersten.

Planning commissioners will continue deliberations on the sign ordinance at a regular meeting in the Woodland City Council Chambers, 100 Davidson Ave., on Tues., May 11, 7 p.m.

Once approved by planners, city council members will weigh in on ordinance provisions.

Businessman suggests more signs

Real estate developer Bill Behrens, who attended the planning commission meeting, said he favors allowing business owners to have more than two signs.

Behrens said several businesses in Woodland currently have three or more signs and no one finds them unsightly.

"Signs promote businesses and we need to promote our Woodland businesses," said Behrens.

Behrens said sizes and heights of signs should be based on square footage of a building surface.

"Planning commissioners deserve our thanks for staying with this process to get it right," said Behrens.

Bill Myers, staff reporter

Under the watchful eyes of master divers, less experienced scuba drivers gathered cans and other debris from the muddy bottom of Battle Ground Lake during an April 17 cleanup.

About 25 divers from Beneath the Waves Dive Shop in Vancouver participated in the cleanup for training credits toward master diver certifications.

Members of the Southwest Washington Organization of Rescue Divers (SWORD) attended the dive-training outing.

Most SWORD divers are police officers or firefighters who assist in underwater searches for drowning or crime victims, said SWORD member Drue Russell.

DOG AVOIDS INJURY, ACCUSED OF MESS

Heidi Wallenborn, news director

Larry Hutchings of Yacolt swerved to miss a dog in the road and ended up in a steep, muddy ditch April 21, while driving a Storedahl truck with two full loads of gravel.

Virgil Barnett, Storedahl spokesperson at the scene of the accident, said Hutchings swerved a bit to miss the animal as so many people do. As a result, the front tire hit the soft graveled shoulder of the road on NE 92nd Ave., Battle Ground, about 9 a.m. while Hutchings was southbound.

Hutchings was reportedly not hurt, even though the cab landed completely on its side. The trailer was also tipped on its side and missed hitting a Bonneville power pole head-on by about 5 feet.

A nearly 80-foot section of fence was destroyed on Brent Steacy's property at 23408 NE 92nd Ave. Unleashed gravel formed mountains in his horse pasture.

George Lingle, Fire District 11 captain, said the accident would have been much worse if that pole had been hit, with live power lines down, rain pouring down at the time and the truck right under the wires.

Lingle's crew contained hazardous material by shoveling dirt contaminated with diesel, engine oil and hydraulic fluid into a container. They also put a pad under a slow leak on one of the fuel containers to keep diesel from seeping into the mud and ditch stream.

"We believe we have contained all of the hazardous material and that nothing got in the water," Lingle said.

TLC Towing crews worked for about three hours to get the truck out of the ditch and haul it away.

The dog was not hit.

OBITS

CHARLES ALLISON

Charles "Tennessee" Warren Allison, 81, died April 23, 2004 in Vancouver.

Allison was born Aug. 30, 1922 in Murphy, NC, worked in commercial construction, and lived in Ariel for 23 years and Yacolt for 30 years.

Allison worked on the Yale and Swift Creek dams, and the Blue River Dam. He did repairs to the Bonneville Dam. He enjoyed hunting, fishing, yard work and watching wildlife, especially elk.

Survivors include widow Dorothy Allison, at home, sons Larry Allison of Vancouver and Bobby Allison of Cougar, sister Willie Belle Mabery of Vancouver, four grandchildren and five great-grandchildren.

Memorial services will be held Fri., April 30, 1 p.m., at Layne's Funeral Home Chapel, Battle Ground, with Layne's Funeral Home in charge of arrangements.

ETHEL MARINI

Ethel G. (Dobson) Marini, 79, died April 25, 2004 in Battle Ground.

Marini was born Dec. 23, 1924 in Des Moines, Iowa, worked as a secretary in her son's machine shop, and lived n Clark County for 55 years.

Marini was a member of the Venersborg 4H Club and Venersborg Homemakers Club. Her interests included quilting, traveling, writing and publishing songs and poems. She enjoyed traveling and would go anyplace, including Europe and cruises. She was family-oriented and enjoyed caring for her grandchildren. She participated in sports activities.

Marini was preceded in death by her husband, Frank Marini, in 1983, and granddaughter Maria Casper in 1992. Survivors include daughter Victoria Marini of Vancouver, sons Frank Marini of Ridgefield and John Marini and Richard Marini, both of Battle Ground, seven grandchildren, one great-grandchild and three step-grandchildren.

Memorial services will be held Sat., May 1, 11:30 a.m., at Cedars Golf Club, Brush Prairie, with private burial at Venersborg Cemetery, Battle Ground. Layne's Funeral Home, Battle Ground, is in charge of arrangements.

ANNABELLE WITT

Anabelle (Royse) Witt, 77, died April 23, 2004 in Vancouver.

Witt was born May 3, 1926 in Ryderwood, and lived in Yacolt for 52 years.

Witt enjoyed collecting things, gardening and garage sales. She loved her grandchildren. She liked dogs, especially her dog Toto. She also liked cats. She was very independent and enjoyed being a grandmother. She loved holidays, especially Christmas and Thanksgiving dinners.

Witt was preceded in death by her husband, Jack Witt, in 1999. Survivors include sons Charlie Witt of Battle Ground and Lucky Witt of Yacolt, niece Shirley Weiher, and four grandchildren.

Graveside services will be held Thurs., April 29, 2 p.m., at Yacolt Cemetery, Yacolt. The casket will be open Wed., April 28, 6:30-8:30 p.m., at Layne's Funeral Home Chapel, Battle Ground.

Layne's Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.

Margaret Jane (Haste) Rockland, 83, died April 17, 2004 in Vancouver.

Rockland was born Nov. 12, 1920 in Detroit, MI, taught elementary school, and lived in California for many years before moving to Vancouver one year ago.

Rockland graduated from UCLA, and was active in Democrat party politics. She enjoyed listening to talk radio. She also enjoyed crocheting, knitting and the Walnut Creek Bazaar Group. She liked to bargain hunt and have lunch with friends. She loved cats and was fond of all animals. She collected paperweights, and enjoyed reading and cooking.

Rockland was known as a fabulous friend.

Rockland was preceded in death by granddaughter Katherine Rockland in 2000. Survivors include husband Louis Rockland, at home in Vancouver, daughter Barbara Hallberg of Vancouver, sons Steve Rockland and Glenn Rockland, both of California, brother David Haste of California, and seven grandchildren.

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

MICHAEL CARSTENSEN

Michael Bruce Carstensen, 53, died April 23, 2004 in Vancouver.

Carstensen was born Nov. 10, 1950 in San Francisco, CA, worked as a school custodian, and lived in Clark County for 10 years and in Battle Ground for three years.

Carstensen loved to paint and travel. He liked baseball. He loved to write and was working on a novel at the time of his death. He was always there for family and friends. He is remembered as a loving, caring person who touched many lives.

Carstensen was preceded in death by his father, Bruce Carstensen, in 2003, and brother Gary Carstensen in 1985. Survivors include mother Doris Bush of Amboy, sisters Arline Griefmeder and Susan Albe, both of Amboy, and Wendy Love of Usk, WA, and several nieces and nephews.

Private services were planned, with Layne's Funeral Home, Battle Ground, in charge of arrangements.

RONALD SILL

Ronald Albert "Al" Sill, 61, died April 3, 2004 at home in Ridgefield.

Sill was born May 13, 1942 in Warren County, Iowa, and moved with his family to California and then to oregon. He graduated from South Eugene High School in 1960, then moved to Portland with his father where they worked together at American Pipe. Sill moved to Ridgefield in 1965.

Sill worked as a dispatcher for Clark Public Utilities and was a member of Local 125 until retiring in 1990. He enjoyed playing the guitar and singing, making home brew, repairing things and spending time with his grandson.

Survivors include widow Joan Sill, at home in Ridgefield, daughters Kimberlee Dezaire of Ridgefield and Cindee Martin-Tellis of Vancouver, sister Gail Freeman of Oregon and brother David Hufford of Oregon.

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

JOSEPH DYE

Joseph H. Dye, 96, died April 17, 2004 in Vancouver.

Dye was born May 28, 1907, in St. Louis, MO, graduated from Lincoln High School in Seattle in 1925, and lived in Woodland for the past 52 years.

Dye worked as head store keeper at Oregon Health Sciences University.

Dye served in the U.S. Navy 1942-1946 in the South Pacific. He was a chief petty officer.

Dye had worked for the Seattle post office 1927-1942, then the Hoquiam post office 1946-1952. He enjoyed playing softball for the Navy Fleet team. He was a life member of the Veterans of Foreign Wars, post 1927, and the American Legion continuously from 1947.

Dye was preceded in death by his wife, Ardis Woodward Dye in 1991. Survivors include sister-in-law Germaine Carey of Woodland, and numerous nieces and nephews.

The Woodland Funeral Home was in charge of arrangements.

MARION GRAHAM

Marion "Fossil" Cleo Graham, 76, died April 13, 2004 in Portland.

Graham was born Nov. 30, 1927 in McCall, South Carolina, worked as a concessionaire in the carnival business, and lived in Clark County for 28 years.

Graham served in the U.S. military during the Korean Conflict. He attended Battle Ground Baptist Church and was a lifetime member of the American Legion and AARP. He was interested in everything and enjoyed people, flying, baseball, Nascar races, working with his hands and talking with friends on the phone. He loved his family and never wanted to see anyone go hungry or go without.

Graham was preceded in death by his wife, Elizabeth Graham, in 1992. Survivors include daughters Victoria Browning and Deborah Holter, both of Battle Ground, Gloria Riepma and Aprylle Smith, both of Vancouver, and Daphne Haworth of Yacolt, sisters Ruth Martin and Doris Henderson, both of North Carolina, brother Charles Graham of North Carolina, and numerous grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

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

Joseph Thomas Brattin, 85, died April 16, 2004, in Papillion, Nebraska.

Brattin was born Sept. 9, 1919 in Baltimore, MD. He moved with his family to Portland. He left school in the ninth grade and joined the Civilian Conservation Crops. He later joined the Army and served as a medic during World War II in North Africa.

After the war, Brattin worked for B.P. John Furniture in Portland. He rejoined the military in 1949, this time with the Army Air Corps. When the Air Force was organized, Brattin became a member and worked as first sergeant and medical administrator. He served a total of 27 years in the military.

After retiring from the Air Force, Brattin moved to Molalla, OR, and worked for 10 years in an auto parts store.

Brattin and his wife, Jeanette, enjoyed traveling across America in their motor home, especially to Branson, MO. They had traveled to Europe, North Africa and the Caribbean. Brattin enjoyed fishing, reading and collecting miniature antique automobiles.

Brattin was preceded in death by his first wife, Jessie A. (Cresap) of Battle Ground, in 1979, brothers William, James, Edward and George Brattin, and sister Mary Cory. Survivors include widow Jeanette Brattin of Bellevue, Nebraska, sons Clifford Brattin of Ariel and Brian Brattin of Oregon, daughters Judith Braune and Esther Jeanette, both of Battle Ground, brothers David Brattin and Richard Brattin, both of Portland, sister Dorothy Murphy of Oregon, 11 grandchildren and three great-grandchildren.

Bellevue Memorial Funeral Home, Bellevue, Nebraska, was in charge of arrangements.

STEPHANIE WILKINS

Stephanie "Sunshine" (Ayers) Wilkins, 32, died April 20, 2004, in Vancouver. Wilkins suffered an epileptic seizure followed by a heart attack.

Wilkins was born April 12, 1972 in Bountiful, Utah, and lived in Oregon until moving to Battle Ground four years ago. She collected anything that had bears on it. She loved farm animals.

Survivors include widower Kevin Wilkins of Battle Ground, sons Thomas Wilkins and Anthony Wilkins, both at home in Battle Ground, mother and step-father Diane and Jeff Veitenheimer of Battle Ground, father Wesley Ayers of Utah, sisters Tiffany Cruz, Tina Ayers, Rhonda Waterworth and Shawna Morales, all of Vancouver, and Sheila Ayers of Battle Ground, and brothers Randy Ayers and Stephen Ayers, both of Battle Ground.

Davies Cremation & Burial Service was in charge of arrangements.