MEMORIAL GARDEN COMPLETED AT AMBOY MIDDLE SCHOOL

Marcus Brotherton, staff reporter

Twenty-two daliahs were planted and 22 balloons were released April 30 at a ribbon-cutting ceremony marking the opening of the Donna Mower Memorial Reading Garden at Amboy Middle School.

The number 22 signifies how long fifth grade teacher Donna Mower Hampton taught at the school until her death in 2002. Mower was Hampton's maiden name.

Mower's mother, Ellen Mower, and sister, Joanna Graves, cut the ribbon. Teachers, students, school staff, District personnel and community members attended the ceremony.

Mower was killed by her husband, Richard Hampton, while at home in Yacolt two years ago. Hampton is now serving a life sentence without possibility of parole or release, according to Clark County Superior Court records.

School staff began to think about ways to honor Mower shortly after her memorial service, said special education assistant Debbie Kunze.

Kunze helped organize and chaired a memorial committee along with fifth grade teacher Erica Cowen.

Committee members decided on a memorial garden because Mower loved to garden, Kunze said. Mower was especially fond of dahlias.

Donations and grant money helped build the garden. Fundraising took about one year. Construction began in August 2003. Volunteers helped after school and on weekends.

The garden features a concrete aggregate patio, four tables and benches and five flower beds. Students are encouraged to read and do homework on the benches. Future horticulture and botanical projects may take place in the flowerbeds, say school staff.

The garden is situated on school grounds near the upper buildings. Community members are welcome at the gardens after school hours.

Contributors include Chelatchie Rock, Concrete Shop, D.A.B.W. Enterprises, Glacier NW, Holland America Bulb Farm, KRG Inc., North County Hardware, Poteet's Garden Shop, River Country Construction, Lewis River Rotary Club, Battle Ground Education Association and the Mountain Valley Grange.

A committee of parents, students, staff and community members has developed a draft dress code policy for the Battle Ground School District.

Public comments on the length of skirts, shorts and dresses are now being sought. Comments received by May 10 will be considered, according to district superintendent Shonny Bria.

The policy will be recommended to the School District's board of directors.

In general, the policy states that student attire is to be selected in consultation with their parents.

Student attire should not present a health of safety hazard, states the policy, such as representing gang membership or hate groups, or disrupting the educational process.

The policy states that students should be neat and clean with the body adequately covered at all times and "no bare zone." Gang-related apparel is not allowed.

The draft student dress code contains these provisions:

** "No Bare Zone," which means clothing is to cover students from the knee area to the upper chest area.

** Clothing is to be properly fitted.

** Pants, skirts and shorts are to be worn at the waistline and not sagging.

** Belts are to be appropriate length based on student waistline and threaded through belt loops.

s** Jewelry, pins, buttons, pictures or other items that display lewd, profane, illegal, sexual or drug/alcohol/tobacco actions are not permitted.

** Jewelry, pins, buttons, pictures or other items that signify membership in a gang or hate group are not permitted.

** Shoes must be worn at all times.

Uniforms of nationally-recognized youth organizations, as well as clothing worn in observance of a student's religion, are exempt from the dress code.

In cases of objectionable apparel, building administrators or staff members are to ask the student to make corrections. If the student refuses to comply, parents are to be notified. If corrections are still not made, students could be excluded from class or lunchroom.

Students may be suspended due to continued refusal or disruptive behavior.

The draft dress code gives sponsors and coaches of extracurricular activities the authority to regulate the dress and grooming of students who participate in each activity. Refusal could result in exclusion from the activity.

District spokesperson Kelly O'Brien-Keister said public input is being sought on the appropriate length of skirts, shorts and dresses. Choices are mid-thigh, mid-knee, or between mid-thigh and knee.

The draft policy contains a drawing that shows which parts of the body in both front and back are to be covered in all positions--standing, sitting and bending.

The policy applies to both genders, said Keister.

The school district's existing policy, adopted in 1980, places responsibility for student dress and appearance on parents, and states that "dress or appearance which causes a material and substantial disruption of the educational process or presents health or safety problems cannot be tolerated."

The existing policy also mentions obscene, sexual and gang-related apparel.

The Battle Ground High School student manual prohibits bare areas between the vicinity of the knee and the upper chest.

Clare Alexander, president of the Battle Ground High School student body, said the existing policies are not enforced.

"The dress code needs to be modified," said Alexander, "but more so it needs to be enforced."

Some teachers enforce appearance policies, said Alexander, and some don't.

Comments on the dress code may be mailed to the Battle Ground School District, P.O. Box 200, Battle Ground, WA 98604, attn. Kelly O'Brien-Keister.

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., with the theme "There's No Place Like Home." Grand marshal will be Michael Allen Harrison.

The parade will form on 5th St. at Pioneer, and travel to Main St. and Division, the same route as 2003 but the reverse of years prior to that. Deadline for entry is June 25.

Entry forms are available at Ridgefield city hall and Ridgefield library, and at The Reflector in Battle Ground. Information, Angela Shields, 887-1014, or city hall, 887-3557.

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.

CLARK DEMOCRATS PICK KERRY

John Kerry was the choice for U.S. president of about 74 percent of Democratic Party delegates who met April 24 for the party's Clark County convention.

John Dean was the only other candidate to receive delegate.

The party's state convention will take place in June. Five delegates and one alternate will be selected to attend the Democratic National Convention in Boston in July.

U.S. Rep. Brian Baird (D-Vancouver) presented the keynote address. Other Democrat candidates spoke as well.

The delegates discussed and approved nearly 200 resolutions dealing with health care, Social Security, education, and campaign finance reform, among other issues. Convention coordinator Norm Banks said 747 delegates took part in the proceedings, which is six or seven times the average, he said. About 150 delegates attended in 2000, he said.

The party will conduct a Third Congressional District convention May 29 in Kelso, and then a state convention in Tacoma June 5.

COWLITZ ASKS FOR 50-YEAR LICENSE

Officials of Cowlitz Public Utility District have filed a final application for a new license for Swift No. 2 hydroelectric project, asking for a new, 50-year license.

The Utility's existing license will expire in April 2006, allowing two years for the license renewal process, the period of time required by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC).

Swift No. 2 is located on the North Fork of the Lewis River about three miles east of Cougar. The 70-megawatt hydro project is owned by the Cowlitz Utility and meets about 30 percent of the Utility's residential power needs.

The application process will focus attention on the Utility's environmental stewardship and protection measures.

Dave Andrew, spokesman for Cowlitz County Public Utility District, said the Utility, along with PacifiCorp, which owns the Merwin, Yale and Swift No. 1 hydro projects, have worked cooperatively over the last seven years on relicensing all four Lewis River projects. "This process has allowed for a concurrent environmental review of the Lewis River watershed and helped facilitate communications among the participants and FERC throughout the licensing process," said Andrew.

Denny Robinson, general manager of the Cowlitz Utility, said plenty of work has gone into the license renewal application process.

"This follows many years of work on this process, including hundreds of hours of discussion on various issues with all interested parties and the completion of dozens of studies on fish and wildlife issues, flood management, recreation, cultural resources and other important issues," said Robinson.

Robinson said he expects FERC to issue the new license by April 30, 2006.

Diana MacDonald, Utility staff member who heads the relicensing effort, said FERC officials will issue a notice with two weeks acknowledging the application and calling for comments from federal and state agencies, tribes and conservation groups.

Environmental review work has been done at the beginning of the process, said MacDonald, rather than later.

The Utility application and related documents are available online at cowlitzpud.org

Comments on the application from agencies and others will be available on the FERC website which is

http://ferris.ferc.gov/idmws/search/fercadvsearch.asp

The Swift No. 2 project is currently being reconstructed following damage from an April 21, 2002 power canal wall failure which caused extensive damage to the powerhouse and surrounding area. Utility officials expect the project to be back in operation by late 2005.

Andrew can be reached at (360) 577-7502.

AMPHITHEATER DETOURS AIRED AT OPEN HOUSE

Fairground neighbors/Amphitheater operator meeting set May 12

Bill Myers, staff reporter

About 50 citizens attended an April 29 open house to view maps of detour routes intended to steer non-venue traffic away from events at the Clark County Amphitheater.

The event was co-hosted by officials from the Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) and Clark County Public Works Department.

Officials said signage will advise southbound motorists from the Battle Ground area of scheduled events. Such motorists are encouraged to use SR-503, NE 72nd Ave., NE 50th Ave. and NE 29th Ave.

Northbound motorists are asked to use NE 10th Ave. or other routes to reach I-5 from the Ridgefield junction at SR-501.

Southbound motorists on SR-502 will be detoured west on NE 199th St., then south on Delfel Ave. to NE 179th St. and the I-5 ramp.

Northbound SR-502 will be used as an emergency route when necessary to keep northbound traffic from backing up on I-5 south of the NE 179th St. off-ramps. If back-ups occur, exiting venue traffic will be routed north on SR-502, west on NE 199th St., and south on Delfel Rd. to the Amphitheater.

Officials route egress comments to Hearings Examiner

County officials parried citizen concerns, mostly from area residents, about routing exiting Amphitheater traffic to neighborhoods west and south of the Clark County Fairgrounds.

Citizens were told that a proposed amendment to a Conditional Use Permit (CUP) issued to Amphitheater operator Quincunx is being reviewed by a Hearings Examiner.

The amendment would allow use by up to 1,400 cars, 20 times per year, of NW 11th Ave., NW 149th St. and NE 10th Ave. and NE 134th St. by exiting patrons.

Comments on the proposed amendment will be accepted by Richard Daviau, Clark County Community Development, 1300 Franklin Ave., until Thurs., May 6, at 4:30 p.m.

Fairgrounds neighbors want new traffic study

Fairgrounds Neighborhood Association spokesperson Bridget Schwarz displayed a map at the Open House showing the controversial egress route proposed in the CUP amendment.

Schwarz said most citizens oppose traffic solutions until officials know the attendance level that creates serious traffic problems.

"Some officials believe problems occur with 13,000 patrons, but they really don't know," said Schwarz. She and other area residents have said ticket sales should be limited to avoid adverse impacts by late-night traffic in area neighborhoods.

Schwarz said a Quincunx official will attend and speak at a Fairgrounds Neighborhood Association meeting Thurs., May 12, 7 p.m., at the Community of Christ Church, 400 NE 179th St., Ridgefield.

Two more hearings set before decision reached on surface mine

Marcus Brotherton, staff reporter

Clark County hearings examiner Daniel Kearns heard more than three hours of testimony April 29 regarding a proposal to rezone a gravel pit located near the East Fork Lewis River to allow surface mining.

Representatives for the applicant, J.L. Storedahl & Sons, Inc., spoke for most of the allotted time. The applicants believe the mine will become a crucial gravel provider for state and area roads and concrete projects.

Two more hearings are scheduled so opponents can speak. Opponents, mostly environmental group representatives and neighbors of the mine, believe the site will irreparably damage fish habitats in the East Fork of the Lewis River.

Kearns' decision will become final unless the matter is appealed to Clark County commissioners.

If approval is granted, no other legal formalities are required for mining to begin. The process has taken six years so far. Some 480 exhibits regarding the case are currently on record.

Storedahl representatives proposed to expand their Daybreak site by mining aggregate from a low terrace situated above the 100-year flood plain of the river. Expansion would occur on about 178 acres of the 292-acre site.

Permits would allow mining to continue for 25 years, but Storedahl representatives believe the project will be complete in 15-20 years, perhaps as few as 12 years because of current and projected aggressive market conditions.

The site would be mined in seven phases. With completion of each phase, the site would be reclaimed and replanted. When all mining is finished, the area will be donated to a conservation group. A $1 million endowment will monitor and manage the site for fish and wildlife and light recreation uses.

Federal agencies have already approved the plan.

County planner Josh Warner began the hearing by giving a summary of the mine's history with a recommendation to approve the rezone.

Warner drew attention to two points in a 75-page analysis prepared by County Department of Community Development staff as its basis for recommendation.

Storedahl's request for a rezone will not change the underlying zoning of the property, Warner said, but will apply an overlay to the existing zoning, which is allowed by County code.

Warner said Storedahl has demonstrated that their plan is in compliance with all relevant land use code criteria. The site's current zoning is agriculture. Storedahl has requested a surface mining district which meets County criteria for being combined with an agricultural zone.

Warner said zoning is consistent with "furthering public health, safety, morals and welfare," which is one County criteria.

Issues of groundwater protection, noise, dust, aesthetics and species protection can be mitigated, he said.

The County recommendation also requires Storedahl to meet several conditions, mostly involving monitoring.

Storedahl representatives filled the remaining time by addressing specific and technical aspects of the plan including planning and land use issues, stormwater and groundwater management, and traffic and environmental law.

Storedahl vice president Kimball Storedahl spoke of the economic benefits to the area because of the mine as well as the environmental mitigation measures taken.

One estimate shows the mine could provide 15 million tons of aggregate which would comprise as much as 75 percent of the high end aggregate used in the County over the next two decades.

Storedahl said he hopes his company's plan will become a model for wet mines in Washington.

"I'm not proud of some of the things [the mining] industry has left behind," Storedahl said. "But rest assured, I want to be able to drive by this site in 25 years with my grandchildren and be proud of this project."

Additional hearings are set for Thurs., May 13, and Tues., June 1, 7 p.m., Public Service Center, 6th floor, 1300 Franklin St., Vancouver.

For more information, contact County planner Josh Warner, 397-2375, ext. 4898.

EMERGENCY CLOSES RIDGEFIELD

Heidi Wallenborn, news director

"This is a declaration of emergency," said George Fox, Ridgefield interim city manager. "There is a hazardous situation here."

An emergency shut-down April 30 of city hall was mandated by newly-hired city attorney Michael Wynne.

The closure is based on findings in a lead contamination report from Certified Environmental Consulting Inc.

"It is my recommendation based on public health and safety issues to immediately close city hall," Wynne wrote. "All employees need to vacate the premises in a safe manner."

Environmental Consulting staff were at city hall April 27 to take samples of paint dust inside and several loose paint chips under the building found by Ridgefield Sgt. Randy Ostrander.

Ostrander was recently asked to assist in the [state and federal] Environmental Crimes Task Force probe into alleged improper removal of lead-based paint from the front of the building in June 2002.

According to the report, paint dust with high concentrations of lead were found in air vents, upstairs storeroom shelves, hanging lights, picture ledges and other areas.

Of the nine random areas tested, five exceeded Environmental Protection Agency action levels.

For example, standards are 250 parts of lead per billion on windowsills and ledges. In city hall, there were 2,600 parts per billion.

Environmental Consulting recommends a High Efficiency Particle Arresting cleaning of all high areas where lead could accumulate, the ventilation system, and all hanging lights, and to pick up the paint chips in the basement crawlspace.

City business will be conducted at the Building Department, 112 N Main Ave., accessed by the alley behind the Dragonfly Salon until further notice, said Fox.

Fox planned to begin a search for qualified remediation contractors off a list provided by the Environmental Consulting staff after an emergency city council meeting held Monday evening at the Port of Ridgefield offices.

The city will also pay for all staff to have blood tests taken.

Lead also likely dumped into McCuddy's Marina

During the course of Ostrander's investigation, it was determined that water is carried into Lake River at McCuddy's Marina via a culvert that empties from the street gutter and storm drain on Pioneer St. near city hall.

Witnesses of the work done in June 2002 said paint chips "flew everywhere" and were pressure washed by workers down the street into the storm drain.

Witnesses also said workers used sanders and chipped paint off the front of the building, and that dust coated the inside and outside of city hall on the sidewalk and road during the nine-day project.

According to Ostrander, several paint chips consistent with what were found at city hall were discovered inside the culvert, littering the bank and stuck in mud under the culvert's mouth.

A city "flushing" truck was used April 27 to push water with a special dye in it and verified the watercourse.

The first course of action is to remediate the building, Fox said. Treating the culvert and other outside areas will happen soon. He expects total remediation could cost about $100,000.

According to a bid received by city staff in September 2001, proper lead abatement would have cost about $40,000.

Who is at risk?

According to officials of the state Department of Labor and Industries, overexposure to lead is a serious health hazard that causes damage to reproductive organs, brain, nerves, kidneys and blood cells. Children and pregnant women are more susceptible.

Lead dust can be swallowed if it gets on hands, clothing, beards, food, drinks and cigarettes.

Officials said exposure to lead for even a short time can cause permanent health affects. In the case of small children, smaller amounts such as dust clinging to clothing, skin or hair can cause damage.

MAN SHOOTS HIS LEG NEAR YACOLT

Jacob A. Couture, 25, 900 SE Parkcrest Av., #P176, Vanc. accidentally shot himself in the upper thigh with a black powder pistol in the Yacolt area.

Marissa E. Inzerillo, 18, and her brother Adrian M. Inzerillo, 20, 19805 NE 232 Av., Battle Ground, were with him when the accident happened.

The trio were target shooting with black powder muzzle-loading pistols near a Larch Mountain Correctional Facility work camp.

According to a Clark County Sheriff deputy report, Couture lost his grip while trying to draw and shoot with one hand instead of two.

Adrian Inzerillo, a paramedic, attended to Couture's wounds and drove him to the correctional facility where he called emergency crews.

Coutre was treated for entry and exit wound injuries and released.

VANDALS STRIKE IN WOODLAND

Fiber optics cut; graffiti rampant

by Cindy Morgan, Heidi Wallenborn

The entire Woodland area was without high-speed Internet access and cable television last Wednesday for about 10 hours.

A fiber optic bundle with 192 fibers was intentionally cut in Woodland about 7 a.m. April 28, according to Woodland police.

The bundle belonged to Aldelphia cable. According to officer Blayden Wall, whoever cut the fibers seemed to know what they were doing. An aluminum lid leading to the fibers was cut.

Spray paint damage vast

In the last three to four weeks 20 cars have been vandalized with spray paint, said Wall, and a mural painted on a garage was sprayed with graffiti.

The mural, painted by Lillie Bunger on her home at 553 CC St., has been an icon in the city for several years, Wall said. The painting was saved because Bunger had put a protective seal on it and was able to wash the blue and black paint off.

Bunger's grand-daughter across the street wasn't so lucky. Her garage was targeted as well, Wall said.

The Woodland Little League Building has also suffered considerable damage from spray paint, Wall said.

The Woodland Rotary Club and Little League are pooling funds to offer a reward between $200 and $500 for the arrest and conviction of the vandals.

Officer Terry Casey said the department is following up on leads regarding juvenile suspects. He expects a successful conclusion to this case soon.

Anyone with information about either case should call the Woodland Police Department at (360) 225-6965.

BUSINESS PARK PLANNED IN WOODLAND

New site to house Columbia Steel Erectors

Bill Myers, staff reporter

The Columbia Steel Erections Co. plans to have a new home in Woodland by the end of summer with room to spare.

Chris Estes and Dave Wetsch of Columbia Steel, doing business as Chinook Business Park, plan to build a 10,000 square foot steel building, including six bays available for lease, at 1342 Downriver Dr.

The home office of Columbia Steel, currently at 131 Davidson Ave., would move to the new building, said Estes.

In issuing a State Environmental Policy Act (SEPA) Mitigated Determination of Non-Significance (MDNS) April 22, Woodland planning assistant Nancy Nersten said comments from the public concerning the application are due at city hall by May 12.

Estes said the building is planned in two phases.

Phase I will be erection of a 5,000 square-foot steel building. Half of the building will house Columbia Steel Erections offices and storage areas. Two 1,250 square feet bays in the building will be leased, said Estes.

Phase II will add 5,000 square-feet, with four additional 1,250 square-foot bays available for lease, said Estes. Estes said Phase I should be completed by the end of summer. Work on Phase II is expected to start as soon as the first building is occupied.

Estes said suitable tenants could include businesses engaged in window repair, glass installation, auto repair and other light industries.

In an Environmental Checklist, Wetsch and Estes said an on-site storm water treatment system will control storm water run-off at the site.

MONUMENT AT AMBOY HONORS VETS

Dedication scheduled on Memorial Day

American Legionnaires in Amboy want American heroes, past and present, to be remembered.

Legionnaires will dedicate a monument honoring active and former members of U.S. armed forces on Memorial Day, Mon., May 31, near the entrance to Amboy Territorial Days Community Park.

American Legion Tum Tum Post 168 commander Richard Langenbach said members of the Amboy post chipped in to acquire the monument, a five-foot black marble obelisk, from Northwood Park Cemetery and Mausoleum, Vancouver.

Legionnaires had the sides of the obelisk engraved with emblems of the American Legion and all armed service branches, including the Merchant Marines. On the face of the monument are the words, "Honoring the men and women who have and are now serving our nation."

The monument is permanently anchored in concrete near the flagpole at the park entrance, 2100 NE 399th St.

"Northwood Park Cemetery and Mausoleum people deserve credit for giving us a substantial discount on the memorial," said Langenbach.

Northwood Park manager Gary Deskins said the retail price of the monument is $11,400. The Legionnaires paid $4,754. Deskins said Quiring Monument Co. of Seattle gave him a significant discount.

Langenbach said guests will speak, taps will be played and a 21-gun salute will be part of the dedication ceremony which starts at 10 a.m. The public is invited to attend. Information about the ceremony and/or membership in American Legion Tum Tum Post 168 may be obtained at 247-5235 or 686-8687.

BG VOTERS TURN UP NOSES AT PARKS

Heidi Wallenborn, news director

Almost 60 percent of Battle Ground voters said "no" April 27 to new taxes to build and maintain Battle Ground parks.

Out of 5,033 eligible Battle Ground voters, nearly 2,000 cast absentee ballots and threw out the city's plan for parks. The special election featured two ballot measures: (1) a 20-year, $7.8 million bond increasing property taxes by 45 cents per $1,000 of assessed property value; and (2) a maintenance and operations levy adding 50 cents per $1,000 assessed value.

The levy would have generated about $360,000 the first year and increased annually by 1 percent over the next 20 years.

If both had been approved, citizens would have seen a 95 cent increase in property taxes, or about $152 per year for a $160,000 home.

The levy question needed a super-majority of 60-percent to pass, but came shy of the goal with 56 percent voting "no" and 44 percent voting "yes."

Citizens, city staff and a landscape design company had been at work getting information out to voters for about 18 months.

Committee meetings, signs posted at parks and stores, informational fliers and citizen gatherings were efforts to educate the public about plans for recreation and to renovate about 120-acres of underdeveloped park space.

For example, 80-acre Remy Park on SW 20th Ave., which is currently undeveloped, had plans for a skateboard park, soccer area, trails, playground equipment and more.

City officials said they were responding to citizens' outcries over several years that there aren't enough parks in the city.

The resounding "no" took mayor John Idsinga by surprise.

"I had heard only positive," Idsinga said, "no negative. Wow. I really thought it would be the other way around."

Council member Lisa Walters said the results are discouraging, "because it was for the kids," and because of the people who put a lot of effort into educating the community.

"I feel worse for the people who put their heart and soul into it," she said.

City manager Eric Holmes said he is "surprised at the split, I thought it might be closer if it failed."

Council member Bill Ganley said although he is disappointed it failed, he is not surprised.

"There were a lot of people who worked hard," Ganley said. "But there was no real strong grass-roots campaign where people came out, did a lot of doorbelling and drove this thing."

Ganley said it will likely take different sports groups coming together and pushing the idea through for another try at voter approval.

"They're really going to have to fight for it," he said.

When asked if there would be another attempt, Ganley said he would suggest to council members to present the maintenance and operations levy by itself in a September special election to take care of what the city already has, then explore other options.

Idsinga said staff would keep looking for grants and other funding sources and "see what we can come up with" for creating parks.

Ganley and Holmes said that restricting the election to absenttee only may have been a factor.

Both theorized that it's easier for people to vote "no" at a kitchen table, and that those who make the effort to vote at a polling place are more likely "yes" voters.

But what really hurt the bid for new parks may have been a combination of the economy, the war, tax-time, priorities and the Battle Ground School District's upcoming special election May 18 for a $55 million bond, city officials said.

"I hope it's a blessing in disguise," Idsinga said. "Timing is everything. Maybe it's a signal that people would rather put their money toward the school bond issue. I hope the outcome is more money for schools."

"But I'm still disappointed," added Idsinga. "Transportation, parks and schools are what will bring economic development to Battle Ground. The balancing act is a tough one."

HOSTS NEEDED FOR RUSSIAN VISITORS

A delegation of Russian visitors will visit Clark County June 15-21 as part of a year-long celebration of famed Russian aviator Valery Chkalov.

Chkalov stopped in Vancouver during a first-ever transpolar flight in 1937.

The Valery Chkalov Cultural Exchange Committee needs host families to house more than 200 Russian visitors.

The Committee is also asking for cash donations, in-kind meals and snacks from area restaurants, items for gifts and gift baskets, Russian or German interpreters, drivers for large vans and buses, and administrative and office help.

To host visitors or more information, call Jess Frost at 735-0365 or Doug Lasher at 371-9160.

Donations may be sent to the Committee at 1701 Broadway, #275, Vancouver, WA 98663.

Horse stricken on Sunday dies without care

Bill Myers, staff reporter

Jeff and Angela Lee Johnson, of A bar J Ranch and Stables in Ridgefield, lost a favorite horse, Cutter, in February.

Angela Johnson said she found the mare in obvious pain, laying in her barn on Feb. 22, a Sunday afternoon.

Cutter was trying to send signals, said Angela Johnson.

The horse rolled her head and looked at her sides. She looked up at the owner she trusted, then looked at her sides again.

"Colic came to mind immediately," said Johnson, a certified veterinarian assistant. She and her husband own 21 horses and board several others.

Johnson said she walked Cutter for a few hours, but there was no improvement. It was Sunday evening, but knowing that colic could be deadly, she called their veterinarian.

A recorded message at Mountain View Veterinary Hospital said Dr. Tom Meyer was not available on that evening. The message advised calling any other large animal veterinarian in an emergency.

Angela Johnson said she used the Yellow Pages and called five or six large animal veterinarians in Clark County. "I left recorded emergency messages for each doctor," she said.

No veterinarians responded that evening, Johnson said.

The Johnsons walked Cutter during the night and looked for advice in an equine medical book. They administered a small enema and gave the horse a mild sedative. The mare continued to throw her head back to look at her sides as she stamped her hooves in pain.

The Johnsons thought of transporting the mare to an Oregon hospital. But the mare was in such pain that her thrashing may have overturned the trailer, they reasoned.

On Monday morning, at about 7 a.m., Cutter's pain ended. She died with her owners at her side.

Johnson said one veterinarian called back at about 1 p.m. on Monday.

Johnson said she was disappointed that other doctors didn't return her calls. She said she can't blame her veterinarian for taking some time off.

The major problem, said the Johnsons, is a shortage of equine vets in Clark County.

Foaling season keeps vets moving

Dr. Brian Johnson of Equine Veterinary Service in Vancouver with 27 years of equine veterinary experience, said the Johnson story isn't surprising.

Off-hour emergencies during the foaling season (February through May) can create almost impossible challenges for area doctors, he said.

"There could have been an entirely different outcome in December," said Johnson.

Dr. Solomon Benerroch, a Portland equine veterinarian who also works in Clark County, described a typical work week as Mon.-Sat., 8 a.m.-8 p.m., and several times until 11 p.m., he said.

"And that doesn't count emergencies," Benerroch added.

Kim Hudson, large animal coordinator at Amazia Veterinary Service in Brush Prairie, said Dr. Scot Lubbers never turned away any emergency prior to two years ago.

Regular patients get priorities on emergencies, said Hudson. She said Lubbers always returns urgent calls, even if he can't visit an animal.

There aren't enough large animal vets, said Hudson. As agricultural areas shrink, fewer young people develop interests in the large animal veterinary profession.

Sue Svendsen at the Executive Horse Council of Clark County said there are 35,000 horses in Clark County.

Years ago, veterinarians coordinated days off in order to cover emergencies, said Svendsen.

Some veterinarians are just too busy to take emergencies except from regular customers, said Sunny King at Equine Veterinary Service.

Hospital services in Oregon

There are no large animal hospitals in Clark County. The closest surgical facilities are in Oregon. Those needing hospital services should call facilities before driving to them.

Willamette Equine Service, at 23200 Hubbard Cutoff Rd., Aurora, (503) 678-4225, and the College of Veterinarian Medicine at Oregon State University, 700 SW 30th St., McGruder Bldg. 153, Corvallis, (541) 737-2858, accept colic and other serious surgery cases.

Doctors at Columbia Equine Service, 27841 SE Orient Dr., Gresham, (503) 663-1515, don't perform colic surgeries.

Columbia Equine practice manager Kim Mosiman said horse owners can find good reference material on the Internet at www.myhorsematters.com and at www.thehorse.com.

Mosiman said veterinarians at Columbia try to respond to non-client emergencies, but regular clients in Oregon and Clark County must come first when schedules are jammed.

A list of area equine veterinarians or services includes Solomon Benerroch, (503) 572-6485; Meg Brinton, 887-8979; Camas/Washougal Animal Hospital, (360) 835-7240; Randy Lee, 887-7814; Brian Johnson, 750-6633; Jack Giesy, 574-2281; Scot Lubbers, 892-7524 and Tom Meyer, 574-7290.

A consensus in the Clark County equine industry appears to be that a large animal hospital is needed in Clark County and would be kept busy.

Finding equine veterinarians could be a challenge, unless something is done to inspire more college students to the profession.

Svendsen said students might be enticed if they knew that Clark County citizens spend $150 million each year on horses.

LA CENTER LIBRARY OPENS MAY 8

Public invited to ribbon-cutting ceremony

Bill Myers, staff reporter

A ribbon-cutting ceremony Sat., May 8, will launch a 100-year-old La Center building toward a new future.

In a grand opening set for 2-5 p.m., Fort Vancouver Regional Library District officials will oversee the official opening of the La Center Community Library.

The building at 1402 E Lockwood Creek Rd. was constructed in 1905 at the corner of E 4th St. and Cedar Ave.

It was a home, eight-bed hospital and drugstore occupied by Dr. Charles Zenner and his wife who treated area citizens.

After completing medical school, Woodland physician Carl J. Hoffman worked with Zenner at the site.

After decades of ownership and occupancy changes, businessmen Robert Colf, owner of Colf Construction Co., Jay Cerveny and Bob Olson bought the 4th St. property.

The building was marked for destruction by fire in 2002 to provide area firefighters with practice.

Colf's mother, Margaret Colf Hepola, was convinced that the building deserved a better fate.

Hepola, who helped restore other historical sites including the historic Cedar Creek Grist Mill near Woodland, believed the building should become a much-needed community library.

Hepola wanted to help preserve a part of the legend of Dr. Hoffman, who became her family doctor when she was a child.

"I also don't believe in destroying beautiful, old buildings," said Hepola.

Robert Colf and his partners donated the building to the Colf Family Foundation.

On August 15, 2001, Colf Construction Co. hired movers to roll the old house to the Lockwood Creek Rd. site, property owned by the Colf Family Foundation.

Workers hired by Colf Construction Co. restored and refitted the old building with an elevator and bookshelves, constructed a parking lot and installed landscaping.

The 3,300 square-foot library will open with about 8,000 books, but has space for almost twice as many, said Library District spokesperson Candy Morgan. More books will be added as funding is available.

Geraldine Veenstra, Woodland Community Library librarian, will take on additional responsibility at the new La Center facility.

The public is welcome to attend the grand opening. Distinguished guests are expected and refreshments will be on hand. Information telephone is 699-8815.

Marcus Brotherton, staff reporter

A brother and sister recently flew to Hollywood, CA, to meet their biological mother for the first time on the talk/advice television show Dr. Phil.

Twins Peter and Courtney Herres, 18, were adopted as infants by John and Linda Herres of Battle Ground.

Courtney is now a senior at Prairie High School. Peter is a senior at CAM high School in Battle Ground.

The youths have always known they were adopted, they said, but considered the couple that raised them as their real parents.

"We never felt weird about [being adopted]," Courtney said. "It always felt normal to us."

Both youths were curious about meeting their biological mother, they said, but were unsure about how to broach the subject with the parents that raised them.

Coincidently, their biological mother, Jacque Herfel of Indiana, was doing some wondering of her own.

Herfel was watching a show about adoption on Dr. Phil one day, and wrote to the show with her story, said the Herreses.

Producers for the television show were interested and asked Herfel if they could try to find her children.

The trace wasn't too difficult, Peter said. Show representatives hired a private investigator who tracked down an aunt in eastern Washington, who supplied the Herres's phone number in Vancouver.

Initially, when show representatives phoned, both Peter and Courtney were hesitant to meet Herfel on national television, they said, and asked if they could meet her off-camera first. Show representatives talked them into meeting on television.

The actual production happened quickly, the youths said. They got the call in mid-January. One week later they were in Hollywood to tape the show.

A production crew flew to Battle Ground first to film the Herreses at home. The crew took about 10 hours of film that was condensed to about 30 seconds by the time it aired, Peter said.

"It felt a bit staged," Courtney said. "Like, they had all of us sitting at the kitchen table eating popcorn, which we never do."

Peter and Courtney flew to California with John and Linda. Show producers put them up in a top hotel and had a driver show them the sights.

The day of the show dawned early. Peter and Courtney were at the studio for briefings, hair and stage makeup, then were ushered to the "green" room to go on stage. On the morning of the show they learned that Herfel didn't know they'd be there.

Herfel was interviewed by Dr. Phil first while Peter and Courtney were back stage. After Herfel watched a video tape of the youths, Dr. Phil asked her if she would like to meet them sometime.

When Herfel answered yes, Peter and Courtney walked out and hugged her.

"It was a bit overwhelming and felt a bit awkward," Courtney said.

"Being on national TV didn't bother me," Peter said. "I thought I'd be nervous, but I wasn't."

"I was nervous," Courtney said.

Dr. Phil talked with the group, then offered some advice about building a relationship after 18 years. John and Linda were in the audience, and Dr. Phil interviewed them as well.

When the show was over, Herfel, Peter and Courtney went out to lunch.

"We just got up to speed," Peter said. "We really didn't know anything about her."

The youths learned Herfel was young when she had them, about 17 or 18, and already had three children with a different father. The three half-siblings now live in Idaho, and Peter and Courtney have since talked with them on the phone and are planning a trip to see them this summer.

Finances were tight back then, Herfel said to them. Peter and Courtney's biological father did not express an interest in keeping them. So the children were given up for adoption.

The biological father is divorced from Herfel, and Peter and Courtney said they weren't interested in meeting him.

The three have kept in touch since the show. Courtney said they all talk on the phone about once weekly, and e-mail regularly. They plan to see her again this summer.

Would they do it again the same way?

"It was a good experience," Courtney said. "I'm happy it happened. But I'd rather not do it on TV."

"I felt that it was fate," Peter said. "It all worked out for a reason. I'd encourage people who have given up kids for adoption to contact them, because they are thinking about it."

Peter and Courtney said their parents, John and Linda, are "really supportive" about the experience. The youths have no doubt in their minds who their parents are.

"Technically we have two moms," Courtney said, "but our adoptive parents are Mom and Dad. They raised us, blood or not."

A new branch location of the University of Phoenix has opened in Vancouver.

Vancouver mayor Royce Pollard and Greater Vancouver Chamber of Commerce president John McKibbin presided over a ribbon cutting ceremony April 28 at the new campus at the West Coast Bank Building, 500 E Broadway, Vancouver.

The University of Phoenix is one of the largest private accredited universities in North America with more than 200,000 students. Graduate and undergraduate degrees are offered as well as technology certification programs.

The school caters mostly to working adults by providing programs centered on professional goals and evening, weekend and online classes, say university officials.

The Vancouver location makes six in the southwest Washington and Portland area. Plans to open the Vancouver branch made sense as Clark County continues to grow, said university officials.

Pat Hardie, university vice president and director of Oregon campuses, said about one-third of the students were attending the Clackamas, OR campus were either living or working in Clark County.

Classes began in 2003 at a temporary site at the Red Lion Inn at the Quay. About 100 students currently attend the branch campus, said University spokesperson Rachael Mortensen.

Two programs are currently offered at the Vancouver branch: a master's degree of business administration, and a bachelor of science degree in business management. Courses run year-round.

Battle Ground resident Kathleen Pipkin is working on a master's degree of business administration through the new Vancouver branch.

Pipkin also works for the Port of Portland full-time and says the flexibility of the program allows her to do both. "I love it," Pipkin said. "The University program works well with my current job."

For more information about the University of Phoenix, contact 693-2525 or log on to:

www.phoenix.edu

YACOLT QUARRY STILL ALIVE

Plans to develop a 135-acre commercial rock quarry near Yacolt are still underway, although the matter has been quiet for about one year.

Legal proceedings have tied up the matter since Clark County commissioners reversed hearing's examiner Richard Forester's decision in February 2003 and approved site development.

Vancouver attorney James Sellers filed suit against the County on behalf of quarry owner Brent Rotschy April 14, 2003, aiming to clarify terms proposed by commissioners when they approved the quarry.

Vancouver attorney Keith Hirokawa filed suit against the County April 15, 2003 on behalf of the No Yacolt Mountain Quarry Committee, a group of neighbors who say noise, dust and traffic from the quarry will ruin the area.

Both suits allege County decision makers made errors in approving the development.

The next hearing is set for Fri., May 7, when attorneys for both sides will discuss several land use issues, said County prosecuting attorney Rich Lowry.

Marcus Brotherton, staff reporter

Battle Ground resident Tom Frasier recently made and placed a tombstone on Joe Masters's grave. Masters was a Yale trapper and hunter who died in 1926 and was buried in Yale cemetery.

Master's grave was unmarked. Cemetery workers found out the precise location where Masters was buried from cemetery plot maps. Workers believe Masters's grave may have originally been marked with a simple wooden cross that long since rotted away.

Frasier's father, uncles, grandfather and great grandfather were friends with Masters.

Frasier said he placed the tombstone as a tribute to an old family friend. Masters was a bachelor with no known relatives.

Legend has it, Fraser said, that Masters may have once had family members who were killed in skirmishes with Indians. Masters reportedly became an Indian scout at age 30, older than typical scouts of that time period.

Masters reportedly scouted in New Mexico and Arizona for general O.O. Howard, for whom the O.O. Howard House is named in the Fort Vancouver National Historic Reserve.

Masters was born in 1853 and homesteaded on the Lewis River by Beaver Bay near Cougar for most of his life.

Near the turn of the 20th century, while working a trapline somewhere between the Muddy River and Cougar, Masters reportedly shot three wolves who were after fresh game.

Fraser said a wolf pack circled Masters as he slept by his line at night. Masters's dog woke him, and when the trapper put tinder on the fire, it blazed up just enough to see a circle of wolves around him.

Another time in the middle of winter, Masters reportedly shot and dressed a deer and left it hanging in his cabin.

Snow had fallen deep that year, and as Masters's cabin grew warm from a fire in the fireplace, he pried open the cabin's front door against the snowdrifts and went to sleep.

In the middle of the night Masters heard a loud thump. A cougar had leapt down from the top of the snowdrift near the front of the cabin and was standing in Masters' open front door. Masters reportedly shot the cougar when it was on his front porch.

Frasier's grandfather bought Masters's land when Masters died.

HELP FOR MOMS-TO-BE IN BATTLE GROUND

Heidi Wallenborn, news director

Sometimes lifestyles get thrown a curve with a surprise pregnancy.

Pre-teens, teenagers and even older women in their 40s and 50s often look for help when told they can expect a child within the year, said Renee Wooten, center director for the newly opened Battle Ground Pregnancy Resource Center.

"More than anything else, we want people to know we are here for them, no matter what they decide," Wooten said.

The Center, sister to Vancouver's Pregnancy Resource Center, offers alternatives to abortion, supports education and provides supplies, counseling and referrals to anyone who walks in the door, Wooten said.

The non-profit group is an affiliate of Care Net, a national Christian network of pregnancy care centers that provide practical help, counseling and positive alternatives to women and unborn children.

The Battle Ground Center, located above S & R Floorcovering in Dollars Corner, is the brainchild of Sharon Smith, a Camas resident who has volunteered 20 years at pregnancy centers.

Smith served as interim director when plans took off in February last year, then handed the reins over to Wooten when the course was set.

Wooten said she volunteered after reading about Smith's plans for the north Clark County area in The Reflector last year.

The Center occupies an entire upstairs floor leased to them by Shirley and Randy Radtke who own the home improvement store. Other staff are client services customer Jeanne Rubino and nurse manager Sandi Dykes.

"We took this place from ground zero," Wooten said. "There was nothing but two-by-fours."

The upstairs space was "gutted," and needed flooring, sheetrock, paint, furnishings and more. Today, about half is finished. Materials are donated and the Radtkes supply labor.

There is office space, a counseling room and a Mommy Store packed with new or slightly used items for expectant moms to shop in with "mommy bucks" earned through an Earn While You Learn program.

For every visit, every video watched and every worksheet completed, clients earn script to spend on anything they'd like in the store, Wooten said.

The space is full of children's clothing sizes 0-4T, maternity clothes, diapers, wipes, layettes, strollers, blankets, food and anything else in excellent condition that has been donated.

"We don't take anything that looks like it's been used," Wooten said, "because a lot of these people have nothing. They work hard for their `mommy bucks' and should be rewarded with nice things to choose from."

Educational videos include what to expect in each trimester of pregnancy, child care, maternity care, baby safety and self-esteem.

Free prenatal vitamins are handed out, courtesy of Hi- School Pharmacy stores who provide them at cost to the organization.

Wooten expects the rest of the building to be finished in about three months, and one room will hold the Center's prize possession--a donated ultrasound machine, the only one for pre-natal care in the Battle Ground area.

"That's important," Wooten said. "When a pregnancy test is positive, we offer an ultrasound. Once they see that little beating heart, they understand what's really going on."

The Center also offers information about sexually transmitted diseases, abstinence, domestic violence, the Women Infants and Children program, post-abortion counseling, Christianity and more.

"We're a ministry," Wooten said. "We want to break cycles and educate as much as we can. In the meantime, we share about a relationship with God. But if they're not interested, that's fine. We're still here for them."

Staff also never turns away someone who is "abortion-minded," Wooten said. Women are given "accurate information about pregnancy and abortion," and are asked if they would mind someone keeping in touch with them.

"We tell them if you decide to do this [abortion] and it troubles you later, we're still here," Wooten said. "Sometimes post-abortion trauma sets in years afterward."

Wooten said she understands that not everyone has the same views as pro-life advocates.

"But even with our differences, we can help the women in our community who are facing a crisis," she said. "Some people we see are victims of incest, rape and domestic violence. Some as young as 12 years old and up to 50."

Not every client is a woman alone, Wooten said. Classes are offered for moms and dads on practical tips about childbirth, care of newborns, child care issues and parenting skills.

"Our total mission is changing hearts and lives," Wooten said. "I think that's fabulous."

Volunteers are always needed, she said. Some areas people can help are peer counseling, Earn While You Learn counselors, receptionist, Mommy Store assistants, bulk mailing and church representatives.

Donations of time and materials can be arranged by calling the Center at 687-8943 during business hours Mon., Wed., and Fri., 1-5 p.m. Hours will increase with clientele, Wooten said.

Check donations can be made out to Battle Ground Pregnancy Resource Center, c/o Vancouver Pregnancy Resource Center, 2128 E Mill Plain Blvd., Vancouver, WA 98661.

A spring fundraiser is set for Fri., May 14, 7 p.m., at the Clark County Square Dance Center, 10713 NE 117th Ave., Brush Prairie. Tickets are $25 per person or $200 per table for an evening of live music, entertainment by a comedian, hors d'oeuvres and refreshments. Call 687-8943 for more information.

OBITS:

GEORGE KETOLA

George Adolph Ketola, 82, died April 26, 2004 in Albany, OR.

Ketola was born Jan. 30, 1922 in Battle Ground. He was returning from a trip to Reno, NV at the time of his death.

Ketola graduated from Battle Ground High School in 1943 and served in the U.S. Coast Guard. He retired from Fort Vancouver Plywood. He was a member of the United Finnish Kaleva, and the B&S Lodge #24 in Hockinson. He enjoyed fishing, cooking barbecuing, smoking fish, swimming, playing pinochle, and traveling to Mexico and Reno. He once caught a 9 1/2 foot sailfish in Mexico.

Ketola was preceded in death by his wife, Betty, in 1989. Survivors include sisters Helen Hicks of Vancouver and Bobbie Tokola of Oregon, sons Dana Ketola and Jud Ketola, both of Vancouver, daughter Michelle Atwell of Battle Ground, granddaughter Heather Majewski of Vancouver and one great-grandson.

Ketola's life will be celebrated Sat., May 8, 12:30 p.m., at Evergreen Memorial Gardens Cemetery, Vancouver. Aasum Funeral Home, Albany, OR, is in charge of arrangements.

ROBERT MATTILA

Robert Albert Francis Mattila, 82, died April 28, 2004 in Vancouver.

Mattila was born Feb. 3, 1922 in Rice Lake, WI. He served in the U.S. Army in World War II and was awarded numerous medals for campaigns in the southern Philippines and Luzon. After military service, he worked for the Army Corps of Engineers in Vancouver and then for the state Department of Transportation.

Mattila was an avid fisherman and bowler. He attended the Lutheran Church.

Mattila was preceded in death by daughter Barbara Mattila, sister Janet Mattila, and brother Pete Mattila. Survivors include widow Hazel Mattila of Woodland, son Mark Mattila of Vancouver, sisters Winifred Hubbard and Bonnie Spence, both of California, and Donna McFarland of Vancouver, and brother Allen Mattila of Camas, and granddaughter Jillian Mattila of Vancouver.

Burial was at Park Hill Cemetery, Vancouver, with Brown's Funeral Home, Camas, in charge of arrangements.

Elna I. (Holmberg) Bradford, 89, died April 28, 2004 in Vancouver.

Bradford was born Jan. 19, 1915 in Harlowton, Montana, and moved with her family to the Pioneer area of Ridgefield in 1924.

Bradford loved to entertain, travel and garden. She was a good cook and cherished spending time with her family and friends. She was a member of the First Church of God and active in the J.O.Y. Fellowship Group.

Bradford was preceded in death by sisters Ebba Fitz and Agnes Satterle. Survivors include daughters Janice Townsend of California, Loretta Morgan of Oregon and Shirley Weiss of Vancouver, sons Merle Bradford, Lyle Bradford and Lee Bradford, all of Vancouver, sisters Merta Elmquist of California and Dagmar Brouhard of Vancouver, 17 grandchildren, 21 great-grandchildren and one great-great-grandson.

Graveside services will be held Sat., May 8, 9:30 a.m., at Evergreen Memorial Gardens Cemetery, followed by an 11 a.m. service at the First Church of God, 3300 NE 78th St., Vancouver.

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

HELEN BECK

Helen Lucille (Gruber) Beck, 61, died April 27, 2004 in Vancouver.

Beck was born Dec. 5, 1942 in Vancouver, and lived in Clark County her entire life.

Beck was a member of Dates and Mates Square Dance Club. She enjoyed playing bingo, riding horses, making ceramics, reading, doing yard work and going to the coast. She also enjoyed gardening, canning, cooking and eating. She was a descendent of the first pioneers in Oregon. She loved her poodles, Sammy and Ralphy.

Beck was preceded in death by her brother, Richard "Dick" Gruber. Survivors include husband John Beck, at home, daughters Debra Lynn of Battle Ground and Shelly Niemela of Oregon, step-daughters Brenda Beck of Centralia and Bonnie Young of Morton, sons Ronald Endres of Battle Ground and Greg Endres of Vancouver, sister Shirley Gilbert of Oregon, brothers Gene Gruber and Dale Gruber, both of Amboy, 11 grandchildren and four great-grandchildren.

Memorial services will be held Sat., May 8, 5 p.m., at Maple Grove Church, 12700 NE 199th St., Battle Ground, with Layne's Funeral Home, Battle Ground, in charge of arrangements.

HENRY BOHLING

Henry Otto Bohling, 85, died April 24, 2004 in Portland.

Bohling was born March 15, 1919 in Heisson, worked as a maintenance man for the Forest Service for 20 years, and lived in Clark County for 81 years before moving to Portland four years ago.

Bohling was a member of Jehovah's Witness, last with the Hawthorne Congregation in Portland. He was a past member of Kingdom Hall north of Battle Ground. He was also a member of Washington Forestry Association. He enjoyed simple things including cutting firewood, maintaining his property, building things and gardening. He grew up in the Heisson area. He taught himself to read, write and use a computer. He enjoyed electrical work and drawing.

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

REV. EARL GEIL

Rev. Joseph Earl Geil, 85, died May 1, 2004 at home near Stanwood.

Geil was born May 22, 1918 in Prineville, OR, graduated from high school in Sweet Home, OR, and attended Pacific College, now George Fox University, in Newberg, OR. He graduated from Lewis and Clark College in 1941. Geil worked as a custodian and youth pastor at Piedmont Friends Church in Portland. He served as pastor at Nampa Friends Church in Nampa, Idaho for four years, then as pastor at Camas Friends Church in Camas for 15 years.

In July 1963, he became pastor at Westgate Friends Church in Ohio. In 1967 he returned to the northwest as pastor of the First Friends Church in Vancouver where he ministered for 15 years. After semi-retirement, he served as pastor at Cherry Grove Friends Church in Battle Ground for seven years. He then moved to Connell to be near his two children, then retired for Friendsview Manor in Newberg.

Geil loved fishing and hunting with his hunting dogs. He liked reading Louis L'Amour books and the Bible.

Geil was preceded in death by his wife, Mary, one sister and one brother. Survivors include brother Vernon Geil of Oregon, sons Steven Geil of Ridgefield, Dan Geil of Florida, Joe Geil of Mt. Vernon and David Geil of Connell, daughter Judy Schubert of Mesa, 11 grandchildren, 15 great-grandchildren and numerous nieces and nephews.

A memorial service is set for Mon., May 10, 2 p.m., at First Friends Church, 2710 N Andresen, Vancouver, with Layne's Funeral Home, Battle Ground, in charge of arrangements.

PAT ARANT

Fredrica Patricia "Pat" (Dougharty) Arant, 81, died April 24, 2004 in Ridgefield.

Arant was born Feb. 27, 1923 in Odell, OR, worked as an aircraft inspector for Lockheed Martin for 30 years, and lived in California before moving to Ridgefield four years ago.

After retiring in the early 1980s, Arant volunteered at the Nature Center in Placerita Canyon, CA. She loved nature and the outdoors, especially bird-watching.

Arant was preceded in death by her husband, Richard Arant, in the early 1990s, and son Michael Abbott in 2001. Survivors include son Daniel Abbott of Utah, step-son David Arant of California, step-daughter Judy Simpson of Sun Valley, daughter-in-law Marcia Abbott of Ridgefield, eight grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren.

Hamilton-Mylan Funeral Home, Vancouver, was in charge of arrangements.

KATHRYN SHAW

Kathryn F. (Harter) Shaw, 90, died April 26, 2004 in Brush Prairie.

Shaw was born Jan. 27, 1914 in Waterloo, Iowa, worked in the meat industry for many years, and moved to Vancouver in 1940 and Yacolt in 1970.

Shaw was a member of the St. Joseph Church in Yacolt. She loved family time, her cabin on the East Fork of the Lewis River, and big band music.

Shaw was preceded in death by her husband, Roy Shaw, in 1999, and son Larry Shaw in 1997. Survivors include daughter Judy Sundberg of Oregon, brother Robert Harter of California, seven grandchildren and eight great-grandchildren.

Davies Cremation & Burial Services was in charge of arrangements.

JOSEPH BRATTIN

Joseph Thomas Brattin, 84, 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 Babitzke, both of Battle Ground, brothers David Brattin and Richard Brattin, both of Portland, sister Dorothy Murphy of Oregon, 11 grandchildren and 14 great-grandchildren.

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

Lucille G. (Steen) Swinton, 84, died April 27, 2004, in Vancouver.

Swinton was born March 20, 1920 in Long Beach, CA. She was raised in California, and during World War II worked in a Long Beach defense plant. She worked for several years as a switchboard operator and homemaker.

After leaving California 26 years ago, Swinton moved to Oregon where she resided for 26 years. She moved to Battle Ground about six years ago.

While a Battle Ground resident, Swinton enjoyed attending Battle Ground Copes luncheons. She moved to Vancouver three years ago.

Swinton enjoyed stichery, bowling and reading.

Swinton was preceded in death by her husband, Harry R. Swinton, in 1998. Survivors include daughter Linda M. Watts of Battle Ground, and grandsons Sean Watts of Battle Ground and Duane Watts of Beaverton.

Davies Cremation & Burial in Vancouver handled arrangements.