EX MANAGER, PAINTER FACE JUDGES

Heidi Wallenborn, news director

Former Ridgefield city manager Randy Bombardier was all smiles as he made his first appearance in court June 28 on criminal charges of official misconduct.

Bombardier's attorney, Jon McMullen, waived arraignment until Fri., July 9, when Bombardier will enter a plea before superior judge Robert Harris.

Bombardier has denied any wrongdoing.

Bombardier faces charges filed by the state Attorney General for his reported role in authorizing the improper removal of lead-based paint from the front of city hall in June 2002.

The charge is a gross misdemeanor with a maximum punishment of one year in jail and/or a $5,000 fine.

Eben Drake of Drake's Quality Painting pleaded not guilty June 24 on Attorney General charges of violating the state Water Pollution Control Act.

Drake allegedly sanded and pressure washed lead paint dust and chips into Lake River when he prepared the building for painting.

Drake appeared before Superior court judge Diane Woolard without an attorney. She told him he does not qualify for a court-appointed attorney and would need to hire one himself.

Drake is scheduled to appear for an arraignment Thurs., July 8. He faces a maximum penalty of one year in jail and a $10,000 fine.

DEADLINE NEARS FOR HARVEST DAYS TALENT CONTEST

Talented singers, instrumentalists, dancers, comics and others are invited to enter the 2004 Harvest Days Talent Search contest set for Fri., July 16, in Battle Ground.

Entry deadline is Wed., July 7, 5 p.m., with entry available at The Reflector or by calling Marvin or Anne Case, 687-5151, 687-4122.

The competition is divided into two age divisions--ages 1-15, and ages 16 and above--and into three talent categories--vocal, instrumental and dance/novelty.

A total of $700 in prizes will be awarded at the show, including $100 for Entertainer of the Year.

Mandatory tryouts are set for Fri., July 9, 7 p.m., at Fairgrounds Park in Battle Ground. Entry fee is $5 per act.

The talent search is sponsored by The Reflector.

Marvin Case of The Reflector said the event will showcase talented people.

"The talent search is judged by skilled musicians," said Case. "It's not a show for goofy lip-sincers. This show is conducted to provide a forum for those who have worked hard in preparation to perform. And it's held to entertain our large audience."

The show will take place Fri., July 16, 7-9 p.m., on the Harvest Days main stage. Audience admission is free.

Entry information and forms are available by calling The Reflector, 687-5151.

YOUTH ORCHESTRA MAY GO UNDER

Alice Perry Linker, staff reporter

What if horns went quiet, violin strings were still and flutes sat silent?

It's a "what if" that the Junior Symphony of Vancouver faces.

Vancouver's only community symphony orchestra for child performers will end its successful five-year run unless money is found for annual support.

Timoteus and Victoria Racz founded the symphony in 1999. For five years they have worked without a salary, using all fees and other income to provide music and support for the orchestra.

Changes in the Raczes' lives are forcing the couple to give up their years of philanthropy.

"We're asking the community to step forward and own the orchestra," Victoria Racz said.

Board president Marlene Varga calls the Raczes' donations "remarkable," and she praised the couple for their years of volunteering.

Timoteus Racz, who owns a violin shop and studio in Vancouver, has been the orchestra's conductor since the beginning. His wife, who plays oboe, has been manager. Both work with student musicians.

Varga said the Raczes have worked more than full-time to make the orchestra a success.

"Victoria and Tim made the kids feel important," Varga said. "They have no children of their own and they treated these kids like their own."

Now the orchestra needs $30,000 a year to keep going.

"We need a corporate sponsor," Varga said.

The money will go toward operating expenses, salaries, printing, music supplies and advertising. Although the orchestra charges membership fees, they are far too low to provide full support.

Entering performers pay $125 and returning performers pay $75 for a season of three concerts. There are a few scholarships.

Varga and Victoria Racz said they believe it is important for Vancouver to have a children's orchestra to benefit performers and listeners alike.

"We're trying to get people to stay in Vancouver," Varga said. "We'd like for people to see what we have on this side of the bridge."

The young musicians live all over Southwest Washington, Victoria Racz said.

Although the orchestra is small--about 30 players this season--it is active.

"We like to keep it small," Victoria Racz said. "Small and personalized."

Interest in maintaining the Junior Symphony extends to former members such as Varga's son Matt, a violinist and student at Columbia River High School.

"It's a good stepping-stone," Matt said. "I learned more from playing [in the orchestra] to an audience."

Shelly Williams of Battle Ground is a member of the board, and her daughter Tristinn played flute in the orchestra for two years. Although her daughter is now in high school, Williams has continued her interest in the symphony.

"I believe we have to expose kids to the arts, and with the cuts in school programs, it's up to us in the community to make sure they are exposed to the arts," she said.

"I'd love to see the community take a real interest in what Victoria and Tim have done," she said. "We need individuals and businesses to step up to the plate."

Williams has looked at the possiblity of foundation money, but, "there's not much in grants now," she said.

About $3,100 was raised through a concert and silent auction organized by Victoria Racz in June, and Limoges Investment Management has donated $500 to sponsor a concert next year.

For information about the junior symphony and fund-raising efforts, call Victoria Racz at 696-4084, ext. 5, or Marlene Varga at 571-5990.

BG BOARD WEIGHS TIMING, CONTENT OF BOND

Marcus Brotherton, staff reporter

The verdict is still out on whether another bond election for Battle Ground schools will be held in September 2004 or February 2005.

Exactly what the bond will look like is undecided as well, although District board members have indicated the bond will be similar to the last proposal.

Voters turned down a $55 million bond proposal in a May 18 special election. The bond would have helped the District accommodate the growing student population.

After the election, board members reconvened a citizen bond committee. Committee members met twice in June to consider the content and structure of the future ballot measure.

At the first meeting, committee members leaned toward a February election, citing difficulties with mustering enough volunteer effort during summer months as a reason for not scheduling a bond in September.

At the second meeting, however, committee members leaned toward a September election by about eight members to four. Not all the same members came to each meeting.

Some committee members argued that going with a September bond will keep current bond momentum alive. Prices for lumber and other construction supplies also rise the longer a bond decision is postponed.

Committee member Randy Rindt advocated a September election.

"It's just a gut feeling," Rindt said, "but I don't think it's going to take a full-blown campaign again. We've put a lot of effort toward this already."

The bond lost by about 700 votes. Battle Ground has 28,586 eligible voters, according to the Clark County elections office. About one-third cast ballots in the May 18 election.

Committee member Sue Cranke, who argued for a February election, presented statistics from the state Education Association showing September is a riskier month than February for passing a bond.

"Speaking as a parent," Cranke said, "with August vacations and back-to-school shopping, I think a bond will get lost in people's minds in September."

One item receiving attention during the second committee meeting was whether construction of a north county high school should be placed on this bond initiative.

Current proposals call for the purchase of land for a north county high school, with the assumption that school construction would come with a future bond.

Voters in the northern part of the District were least favorable toward the May 18 bond election.

Committee member Lou Maurina said he personally spoke to 61 people in the Amboy area about the bond.

One general consensus, Maurina said, is that north county residents don't want to wait until 2012 for a new high school. The majority of north county students currently attend Battle Ground High School, which means longer bus rides and difficulty commuting to extra-curricular events.

Committee member Russ Wadleigh called the need for a north county high school "the greatest need right now in the District." He advocates building a high school on the current Amboy Middle School site and moving middle school students to the Yacolt Primary site.

One problem with building a north county high school right away, said committee member Terri Tweedell, who is also executive director of the Battle Ground Chamber of Commerce, is that the District does not qualify for full state matching funds because the north county area does not have enough high school students.

Putting a north county high school on this bond proposal would mean more money for area taxpayers, Tweedell added.

"The credibility of the District is to spend match funds at optimum levels," Tweedell said, "not reduced levels."

No committee members, except Wadleigh, suggested removing any items from the current bond proposal.

Wadleigh suggested money for the proposed demolition and rebuilding of Laurin Middle and Lewisville Middle schools could be better spent elsewhere, perhaps by remodeling the schools.

Ralph Wilson, architect for the LSW company, showed a comparison chart that suggested demolishing and rebuilding the two schools is actually cheaper than fully remodeling the sites.

Committee members briefly discussed the possibility of running two bonds, one geared toward needs, the other toward wants.

Board chair Sam Kim said the idea of multiple bonds tends to yield less favorable results for all District patrons.

"On one hand we're saying, `This is really, really needed, while this is only really needed,'" Kim said. "Theoretically, we could run 11 bond measures and let voters decide on each proposition. But I [doubt] if this is a viable strategy."

BG APPROVES NEW DRESS CODE

Marcus Brotherton, staff reporter

Battle Ground School Board members unanimously approved a new clothing policy designed to promote safety and well-being of all children in the 12,500 student District.

The policy, approved June 22, states that all skirts, shorts and dresses must be longer than mid-thigh, footwear must be worn at all times appropriate to activity, and no cleavage or undergarments can show.

Clothing is to be properly fitted. Pants, skirts and shorts are to be worn at the waistline and not sagging. The policy applies to both genders.

In addition, clothing representing gang and hate-groups is not permitted, along with anything that displays "lewd, sexual, drug, tobacco or alcohol-related messages."

Student dress will be regulated in the judgment of school administrators when "a substantial disruption of the educational process will result."

The policy also relates to jewelry, pins, buttons and pictures.

A dress code committee comprised of parents, students, District staff and community members met over the past year to review the District's previous dress code policy and make recommendations to the Board.

A survey regarding the code was mailed to area citizens. Some 2,500 surveys were returned to the District, according to Jim Bosisto, who facilitated the committee.

District administrator Diana Gilsinger said the issue of whether clothing for certain extracurricular activities such as cheerleading and drill team might violate the code is addressed in the new policy's procedure documents.

Procedure documents state that each school's building administrators, in conjunction with sponsors, coaches and other people in charge of extracurricular activities, may regulate dress and grooming.

Committee member Clare Alexander, a recent Battle Ground High School graduate, said at a May 25 meeting that the majority of students she spoke with said they were in favor of the new code.

UTILITY REPLACES FAULTY METERS

Alice Perry Linker, staff reporter

Attempts to streamline services don't always turn out as planned. Just ask Clark Pubilic Utilities.

"Two years ago, we switched to an automated metering system," said Mick Shutt, utility spokesman.

No more walking door-to-door, disturbing home owners and sleeping dogs. The new system relied on radio transmission to carry information from the meter to a unit in a vehicle.

Employees could drive around Clark County, reading meters from several blocks' distance.

That is, until some meters began to fail, and those meters had to be read the old way.

"We decided the failure rate was too high," Shutt said. "We replaced all the meters from the same manufacturing lot."

Then, utility employees found that others weren't performing satisfactorily. Eventually the decision was made to replace all automated electric meters with new ones.

"We have about 45,000 remaining," Shutt said.

Homeowners and businesses are notified by mail about two weeks ahead of the replacement date. During replacement the electricity is turned off for about 15 minutes.

"If people need to shut down computers, we'll work with them," Shutt said.

Homeowners or businesses who have received letters and have questions may call the utility at 992-3000.

The good news is that the faulty equipment does not affect a meter's ability to measure the amount of electricity used in each home or business.

The part that failed is the radio transmitter.

"It's a transmission error," Shutt said. "The meter operates normally. It's never been an issue with meter accuracy."

The transmission systems were provided by Itron of Spokane which is responsible under a warranty for the full cost of replacement, Shutt said.

Itron has hired a contractor, Tru-Check, to do the work.

All faulty systems are expected to be replaced by October, he said.

"The system's great," Shutt said. "It's much more efficient. We just had these nagging issues."

HOCKINSON SCHOOLS SET BUDGET FOR 2004-2005

Marcus Brotherton, staff reporter

Hockinson School District officials held two public hearings in June to gather input toward the district's budget for 2004-2005.

The District's fiscal year ends in August.

Board members are expected to adopt a new budget at a meeting in July.

Hockinson's budget continues to change each year, primarily due to start-up costs associated with the new high school, said Donna Gregg, who splits her time as business manager between the Hockinson and Ridgefield school districts.

One item driving the 2004-2005 budget, said Gregg, is more students. In 2003-2004, Hockinson averaged 1,672 students in its four schools. For 2004-2005, the District expects to average 1,848 students.

About 80 of the 176 additional students will be new to the District. The spike in enrollment is because Hockinson is adding one year of educational services to the high school each year until the school houses all four grades and is a 9-12 school.

Last year, the school contained grades 9-10 only . This fall, the school will include the 11th grade.

Each extra student brings about $4,000 to the District in state dollars.

Hockinson's overall budget for 2003-2004 was about $12.1 million. For 2004-2005, the budget is proposed at about $13.5 million. Income and expenditures are set to be balanced.

About $419,000 will be met by the District's savings. Gregg said money from savings will be used for one-time costs for the high school such as curriculum, uniforms and sports equipment.

District officials anticipated high school start-up costs for several years, and increased the unreserved fund balance specifically for that reason, Gregg said.

Even dipping into its reserve, the District will end 2005 with about $780,000 in savings, above the 5 percent level of $675,000 recommended by state officials.

Predicting utility costs from year to year is another challenge, Gregg said. District officials projected spending about $290,000 in utility costs for 2003-2004. About $412,000 is projected for 2004-2005.

Part of the challenge for predicting utilities in Hockinson is working with a new set of buildings, Gregg said. The high school is the District's first two-story structure. No previous year data is on hand to predict heating and cooling costs.

Also receiving attention during this budget season is some $515,000 earmarked for future land purchases.

District officials have not stated specifics of the plan yet, but talk is of a new elementary school, perhaps at the south end of the District.

Classified employees are set to receive a 1 percent salary raise prompted by the state legislature. Teachers up through the first seven years of teaching will receive a 1-3 percent pay raise, also due to legislative approval.

A new superintendent's salary has not yet been discussed, Gregg said. Current superintendent Barry Gourley resigned and will move to Nebraska in July to be with his wife, who has accepted a position as superintendent with the Lincoln, NE, schools.

For more information about the Hockinson budget, contact Gregg at 448-6400.

BG EMPLOYEE FOUND GUILTY OF THEFT

Heidi Wallenborn, news director

Glenn Rasmussen, a former Battle Ground public works employee, was found guilty last week of three counts of third degree theft of time from the city.

A Clark County District Court jury under judge Kenneth Eiesland handed down the verdict June 23. Another charge of official misconduct was dropped before the trial.

"We feel Glenn Rasmussen was railroaded and we plan to appeal the conviction," said Beverly Lavy, Rasmussen's attorney.

A sentencing hearing is set for Wed., July 14. An appeal will be made then. Rasmussen faces a maximum 90 days in jail and/or $1,000 fine on each count of the misdemeanors.

Rasmussen was fired from his 10-year job in the water, sewage and drainage department in February after an investigation by Battle Ground police which began when Rasmussen accused another employee of equipment theft.

During the course of the investigation, Rasmussen was found to have lied on handwritten time cards, according to police documents.

Prosecuting attorney Chris Sundstrom said Rasmussen intentionally misrepresented hours worked on weekly time cards with intent to receive benefits for leave or pay in July, August and September 2002.

Police documents state Rasmussen claimed he worked two 8-hour days and took sick leave for one 8-hour day in those three months.

However, the police investigation revealed Rasmussen was on duty as a reserve police officer with the Multnomah County Sheriff's Office during those days and hours claimed on time cards.

Rasmussen was suspended by the department shortly after he was charged with theft of time.

Investigation reports state city finance director David Reeves said Rasmussen was paid $508.32 from his public works job that Rasmussen did not earn, and that his hourly wage was $25.36.

In recorded transcripts of a police interview conducted by Lt. Roy Butler and Det. Mike Molzahn in October last year, Rasmussen said he has a "memory like a piss ant," is "lousy" at keeping time records, made a "stupid mistake" and had no "criminal intent."

Newspaper and city blamed for change of venue

In a motion for a change of venue for Rasmussen's case to be heard in a County court rather than in Battle Ground Municipal Court, Lavy wrote that Rasmussen "firmly" believed he would not receive a fair trail in Battle Ground because the city had a vested interest in seeing him convicted.

Rasmussen filed a civil lawsuit against the city for wrongful termination. Lavy believes there "is a definite conflict of interest for the city to be the one hearing the trial, and also benefiting financially from his being found guilty," noting that the judge and prosecuting attorney are city employees and may be prejudiced.

In addition, Lavy stated "negative newspaper articles have appeared in the local newspaper with information being supplied" to the newspaper by the city, which is "detrimental to the defendant."

Lavy also said only a small jury pool is available in Battle Ground and that a search through the county would produce an "untainted and unbiased jury pool."

The request was granted in March by Battle Ground judge Steve Sowards.

COUNTY WILL SHOW FACILITY PLANS AT OPEN HOUSES

Bill Myers, staff reporter

Clark County planning officials will unveil capital facilities needed for growth at open houses set for Wed., June 30, and Thurs., July 8.

Planning for future needs was guided by a map approved in January by County commissioners as part of a Comprehensive Plan update that began in 2000.

Lines on the map show how urban growth boundaries within the county could shift over the next 20 years. Boundaries were developed after meetings and hearings by the County Planning Commission and County commissioners.

At the hearings, officials from Battle Ground, La Center and Ridgefield protested efforts to limit city expansions.

Commissioners made concessions, granting more land for job creation to Battle Ground and Ridgefield. But they turned down a request by La Center officials for control of land south of the East Fork of the Lewis River.

La Center officials want the city's urban growth boundary to embrace about 33 acres at Timmens and La Center roads. City leaders hope to create jobs for city residents with retail and office development at the site.

Freeze on some development

To preserve what they perceive as future job-producing land, the commissioners enacted a development moratorium on selected areas north of La Center, west of Battle Ground, east of Ridgefield and north of Vancouver.

The freeze, which took effect Dec. 16, 2003 and was modified Jan. 27, 2004, will remain until commissioners finalize an update to the County's 20-year Comprehensive Plan. The update is targeted for completion on or before Dec. 1, 2004.

Capital facilities described

At the open houses, County planners will predict service needs based on the Jan. 14 map.

Planners will outline capital facility needs such as water, sewer, stormwater, parks, transportation, schools, police and fire protection.

An analysis of needs will help planners determine if the map is realistic or needs further refinement, said long range planning manager Patrick Lee.

Lee said a Capital Facilities Plan summary report should be available on the County website, www.co.clark.wa.us by June 25.

The first open house is set for Wed., June 30, 4-7 p.m., in the County Public Service Center lobby, 1300 Franklin St., Vancouver.

A second open house is set for Thurs., July 8, 4-7 p.m., at the Dollars Corner Fire Station, 21609 NE 72nd Ave., Battle Ground.

Lee said the open houses are intended to provide information to area residents, but are not intended as a venue for public input. Comments will be welcome at the public hearings, said Lee.

County commissioners will begin public hearings on the plan update/capital facilities proposal Tues., July 13, 10 a.m., at the Commissioners Hearing Room in the Public Service Center.

Information telephone is 397-2375, ext. 4113.

Bill Myers, staff reporter

City leaders of La Center, after meetings with Washington, D.C. officials, want to meet with Cowlitz tribal leaders.

In a letter approved by city council members June 23, mayor James Irish asked tribal chairman John Barnett to help open a dialogue and negotiations.

Irish said negotiations could shed light on how tribal members could offset adverse economic impacts to the city from development of a tribal casino at the I-5/NW 319th St. junction.

An independent consultant earlier this year said a casino at full build-out in 2008 would slash $2.4 million from La Center's card room gaming tax revenues.

In the letter, Irish said tribal attorneys had previously declined to discuss potential losses of gambling tax revenues with city leaders.

Irish said tribal council member David Barnett (John Barnett's son), at a June 9 meeting attended by George Skibine, a Bureau of Indian Affairs (BIA) official from Washington, D.C., said all topics could be on the table.

Irish asked John Barnett to confirm a willingness by tribal leaders to discuss lost gambling tax revenues.

Council members visit Washington, D.C. officials

The mayor's letter followed a trip to Washington, D.C. by council members Richard Curtis and Dale Smith.

Curtis, Smith, city attorney Dan Kearns, Seattle-based attorney Sara Mack and citizens Ken Hickman and Bob Smith are members of a Task Force charged with researching matters related to the Cowlitz Tribe proposal.

In reporting results of June 16-19 visits to Washington, D.C. officials, Curtis said he and Smith met with legislators and officials, including Aureen Martin, a BIA director and decision-maker.

Curtis said Martin assured them that all issues would be weighed, including financial impacts to the city, before deciding if a recently-submitted environmental analysis by the tribe sufficiently deals with impacts from the proposed development.

An attorney hired by the city and familiar with tribal affairs said it would not be lawful, without congressional ratification, for the tribe to make direct payments to the city to replace lost revenue, said Curtis.

Dale Smith said Martin agreed to help seek congressional ratification of such an agreement if it were necessary. Irish tabled a recommendation by Curtis to allow Task Force members to negotiate with tribal leaders. Citizens need time to evaluate what is happening, said Irish.

Irish said a decision about negotiations can be made at the Wed., July 14, 7 p.m. city council meeting. The meeting will be at the city hall, 214 E 4th St., La Center.

CAMPAIGN FOR WATER CONSERVATION BEGINS

Alice Perry Linker, staff reporter

When rain stops falling sometime in June, outdoor faucets begin pouring.

Watering lawns and gardens may be a necessity during hot summer months, but Clark Public Utility District officials say people need to water a lot less than they think.

As it has in past years, the Utility is sponsoring a water conservation effort this summer, encouraging residents to consider how they are using water and some simple ways they might conserve, said Mick Shutt, spokesman.

Battle Ground officials said the city is also campaigning for water conservation.

Keeping clean water flowing to a rapidly growing population can be challenging for the city, said city manager Eric Holmes. A ninth well is now being drilled and will be online soon.

Netherless, water "is a finite resource," he said. "The more we use, the less we'll have." Battle Ground and Utility officials are reaching out to their respective communities with information. The city's web site has a link to water conservation ideas, and the Utility will include conservation tips in its July newsletter.

"Conservation only works if people know about it," Holmes said.

Shutt and Holmes pointed out that most conservation requires very little sacrifice.

"There are simple things," Holmes said. "Repair leaky faucets, water at night."

"A lawn needs only one inch of water a week," Shutt said. "You don't need to water the lawn constantly."

People waste more water during summer than at any other time, using two-to-three times more water than in the winter, he said.

Although southwest Washington and surrounding areas have been drier than usual in the past few years and 2004 seeing an unusually dry early spring, Shutt does not foresee a need for severe water restrictions, such as watering only on alternate days.

According Shutt, 1975 was the last year the Utility restricted water use.

Drought is not the only problem plaguing Battle Ground water.

"Last week our two most productive wells failed," said Holmes.

An agreement allows the Utility to provide water to Battle Ground in emergency situations.

Holmes said the city will draw on Utility water while the wells are being repaired.

The pump broke on one well and a valve malfunctioned on the other, he said.

Holmes did not know how long the Utility will help provide city water.

In addition to providing emergency water for Battle Ground, the Utility provides water for Yacolt, Amboy, La Center and Hockinson.

"We're the second largest water provider in Clark County," Shutt said.

Marcus Brotherton, staff reporter

Construction activity in Clark County set a 25-year record during April and May 2004.

Clark County issued commercial and residential building permits valued at a record $43.9 million in April and $43.6 million in May, according to Richard Carson, director of the County's Department of Community Development.

Those two months comprise the highest level of construction valuations since the County started keeping records in 1980.

The last time the County saw valuations close to this spring's levels were $42 million in May 2003 and $38 million in April 1999.

Part of the reason for the current high numbers, Carson said, are large-scale commercial projects now underway, including a new exhibition building at the County Fairgrounds valued at $7 million, and Legacy Hospital valued at $7.5 million.

Residential construction numbers are sound too, Carson said. Building permits for new single family dwellings were at a new high in May. The County issued 232 permits that month, which is the most issued in May since 1996.

"It's pretty amazing right now," Carson said. "Both residential and commercial numbers are booming."

Most area growth is occurring in unincorporated areas right now, Carson said.

Carson said strong spring 2004 valuations may also be partially due to a lower number of permits issued in the first quarter 2004. The County saw poor first quarter numbers because of severe winter weather, said Carson.

Carson said the thing to watch is potential higher interest rates on the horizon. Higher interest rates may cause a flurry of last- minute construction as people seek to get loans before rates go up.

ARMSTRONG PLANS ANOTHER TRIP TO AFGHANISTAN

Tom Armstrong of Battle Ground plans to make a fourth trip to Afghanistan to provide medical assistance to rural residents.

Armstrong, a retired firefighter and emergency medical technician, said he will spend six weeks in Afghanistan beginning July 18. While his first trip began under the auspices of Northwest Medical Teams, he has subsequently traveled as a private citizen and at his own expense.

Armstrong said he has approval from the United Nations to enter Afghanistan from Uzbekistan. He will fly Asiana Airlines and work under the direction of the Afghan Medical Association.

The trip and supplies are at his own expense, said Armstrong.

Armstrong said his main effort will be in rural villages, treating dehydration with IV infusion, taking patients to leprosy clinics, delivering pharmaceuticals, and conducting daily spoon feedings of undernourished babies.

"This hot time of summer is the best time to save those who are in severe straits," said Armstrong.

Armstrong conducts assessments in villages, and takes digital pictures. He then meets with doctors in Mazar e Sharif. Doctors then prescribe medications which Armstrong buys and delivers.

"We will spend four nights out in villages, then two back in the city," said Armstrong.

Armstrong said security, housing and food are provided by village families. "I'm far from any police or military response," he said.

Armstrong believes he is the only foreign volunteer doing this kind of medical care work in northern Afghanistan.

When this 6-week trip is completed, Armstrong will have spent 6 1/2 months in Afghanistan since 2001.

Armstrong said his wife, Donna, is concerned about his safety, but does not discourage him from making public service trips.

Armstrong said he may be able to organize a seminar on skin cancer with participation from the loosely-formed Afghanistan Medical Association. Armstrong will travel from Portland to San Francisco, then to Seoul, South Korea, then to Uzbekistan. Travel time to Afghanistan is about 24 hours one way.

Armstrong said the trip will cost him about $4,200. He plans to take older model 35-mm cameras as gifts to village elders. Anyone willing to donate an older, good quality film camera is invited to call Armstrong, 687-6020.

HOCKINSON WILL HIRE INTERIM SUPERINTENDENT

The Hockinson School District board of directors plans to select an interim superintendent at a July 1 meeting, and have that person on duty by Aug. 1.

A time has not yet been set for the July 1 meeting.

The interim superintendent will succeed Barry Gourley who has served since July 1, 2001. Gourley previously announced retirement plans effective July 31.

The interim superintendent will serve until June 30, 2005.

Four candidates are under consideration as interim superintendent.

Elaine Taylor of Vancouver served as superintendent of the McMinnville, OR school district 1995-02, and was previously superintendent of the Lake Oswego, OR district. She holds a master's degree in education from Lewis & Clark College.

Richard Minarik is presently superintendent of the Montesano School District, having previously served as superintendent of the Quilcene School District. He holds a master's degree from Michigan State University.

Robert B. Ranells is superintendent of the Jefferson County School District in Rigby, Idaho. He was previously superintendent at Bruneau-Grand View School District in Idaho. He holds a Ph.D. from the University of Idaho.

Richard Wilson has been superintendent of the Crescent School District in Joyce, WA since 1986, and had previously been superintendent of the Steilacoom School District. He holds a master's degree in school administration from Pacific Lutheran University.

The board interviewed applicants June 26, followed at 1 p.m. with a public session.

The board reconvened later that day in executive session to discuss the candidates.

The board will decide at a later date on the process it will use to select a permanent superintendent for the 2005-06 school year.

Information, Julie Backous, district secretary, 448-6400.

TROOPER RHINE KICKS OFF LEGISLATIVE CAMPAIGN

Calling for better public information on how government spends money, Republican Roy Rhine has begun his campaign for state representative from the 17th legislative district.

Rhine will face incumbent Democrat Deb Wallace in the Nov. 2 general election.

"I want to make things better for our community," said Rhine, 42, who has not previously held political office.

Rhine is a sergeant with the Washington State Patrol.

Rhine called for an outside audit of the state Department of Transportation. "We don't know where our money is going," said Rhine. He noted the value of an external audit of the State Patrol and embraced performance-based budgeting.

"We should let people know where their money is going," said Rhine. "If people could see where their money is going, people would be more interested in investing it" in important government programs, said Rhine.

Rhine served on a task force seeking to collect the vehicle excise tax before than tax was eliminated.

Rhine said he will vote against the Tim Eyman tax-cutting initiative which will likely appear on the November ballot. "Public safety needs money," said Rhine.

Rhine said too must emphasis has been placed on standardized student testing. He said the timeframe for all student groups to meet testing standards is not realistic.

Yet, said Rhine, "we need accountability in schools." He said the charter school concept is appropriate in certain areas.

Rhine said state government should not fund abortions. He said he has received support from the Human Life PAC of Washington.

Rhine supports current laws requiring the use of seat belts and motorcycle helmets. He said the law could be changed to allow motorcyclists who carry insurance could to go without helmets.

Rhine supports the election of Republican Dino Rossi for governor.

Rhine said he has raised $5,500 so far, and will need $175,000 to $225,000 to conduct an effective campaign.

Rhine served in the U.S. Marines, then graduated from Washington State Police Academy enroute to his career with the state patrol. He and his wife, Lisa, have two sons.

Rhine serves as a volunteer firefighter, scout leader and your sports coach, and is a member of New Heights Community Church. He has been with the state patrol for 14 years.

Rhine can be reached at 892-6832.

The Cowlitz Tribe has signed a memorandum of understanding with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service regarding the construction of a replica plankhouse on the Ridgefield National Wildlife Refuge to proceed.

The agreement paves the way for continued construction of the plankhouse, headed by a member of the Chinook Tribe.

Under the agreement, the Cowlitz Tribe will be included in the planning and production of educational and interpretive materials dealing with the Tribe's historic presence on what is now the Ridgefield Refuge.

In return, the Tribe agrees that the technical aspects of the design and construction of the Chinookan-style plankhouse will continue to be guided by the findings of Dr. Ken Ames of Portland State University.

Ames, who head's the University's Department of Anthropology, is lead scientist conducting archaeological research at the Refuge, which housed a Chinookan village about 200 years ago.

Under the agreement, the Cowlitz Tribe pledges to assist in securing funding for interpretive exhibits and programs at the Refuge.

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

The setback arose in January 2004 when representatives of the Cowlitz Tribe objected to being excluded from the plankhouse project or recognized as having lived in the Refuge area during the era of the Lewis and Clark expedition.

John Barnett and Mike Iyall, representatives of the Longview-based Cowlitz Tribe, argued that, because the inhabitants of the Cathlapotle Village at the Refuge were not documented, then the project should include all tribes of the region.

Barnett and Iyall said that the federal Fish and Wildlife Service's materials, along with its website, are not objective with regard to the Cowlitz Tribe.

The Ridgefield Wildlife Refuge is part of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.

Worked stopped on the plankhouse project and a $200,000 federal grant was put on hold, according to Virginia Parks of the Fish and Wildlife Service.

Parks said the construction schedule now calls for completion by spring 2005, possibly by March 29, 2005, the 199th anniversary of the arrival of Lewis and Clark in the Ridgefield area.

The plankhouse project will include replacement of the foot bridge which connects a parking lot with a trail to the plankhouse location. Parks said the existing foot bridge is not accessible by people with disabilities.

EDITORIAL:

RIDGEFIELD WANTS HIGHER PROPERTY TAX

Alice Perry Linker, staff reporter

Ridgefield voters will be asked in the primary election Sept. 14 to approve a higher property tax levy, but the higher amount will not automatically go into effect.

The city council voted unanimously June 24 to ask voters to increase the tax rate from $1.45 per $1,000 assessed value of property to $1.60 per $1,000.

Mayor Gladys Doriot stressed that the council will not impose any property tax increase until it becomes necessary.

Interim city manager George Fox said that a tax limitation initiative proposed on the November ballot by Seattle-based activist Tim Eyman would severely limit the city's ability to provide services.

If the tax limitation initiative is approved by voters, the city stands to lose about 25 percent of its income.

"Many jurisdictions are doing this," Fox said about the city's proposal.

If Eyman's initiative passes, the city will lose $35,000 for the next fiscal year if the property tax rate remains at $1.45 per $1,000 assessed value.

If voters approve the increase to $1.60, the city will only lose $15,000, Fox said.

"You can increase revenue or reduce services," Doriot said. "It's up to the community to tell us which they want."

RIDGEFIELD STUDIES NEW CONCEPT

Alice Perry Linker, staff reporter

If the Ridgefield city council approves a new concept of "green infrastructure," the city will be come the first in Clark County to study the innovative idea.

The council took no action at a June 24 meeting on a proposal from the state Department of Ecology and did not set a date for a vote.

The concept identifies existing watersheds and natural areas within the city and develops those natural areas into an infrastructure that would slow or collect stormwater runoff.

Steven Stanley with Ecology presented information about the proposal during a study session.

"The [natural] resources are basically intact here," he said.

Stanley said the advantages of establishing green infrastructure would mean fewer pipes for stormwater control. The system could improve water quality, streamline the permit process and allow greater local control.

City council members, although interested in the proposal, expressed some concerns.

"Would green be fair to developers?" asked council member Gary Adkins. "We need to weigh this out carefully."

Council member Dave Standal said, "If we use wetlands as infrastructure, that would give more land for development."

Ecology's proposal came in a fairly rough form, looking at a broad landscape picture, said Brad Murphy, Ecology wetlands/shorelands specialist.

If the council decides to move ahead, the state could begin an assessment of ecosystems within the city limits.

The state's work is being done at no cost to the city, but once the initial process is completed, the city would hire a consultant to complete the plan, Murphy said.

The city is developing an industrial area east of I-205, but acreage in the higher elevations may not be suitable for development, Stanley said. That land could be set aside as a natural area to slow the release of winter water.

A number of questions about land banking and incentives for landowners have not been answered.

The city of Leavenworth is undertaking a green infrastructure study with Ecology. Council member Gary Holmberg suggested that when the study is finished the Ridgefield council "take a look at it."

CITY MANAGER SEARCH CONTINUES

Alice Perry Linker, staff reporter

The process of hiring a new Ridgefield city manager has taken another step.

The city's deadline for applications was the end of May, but interim city manager George Fox said applications are still being processed.

Each council member will examine applications and select favorites during the next two weeks.

Council members will meet in an executive, closed session Thurs., July 8, to discuss the candidates. They may consider as many as six or seven, Fox said.

"We're not in any hurry," said mayor Gladys Doriot. "We may choose more finalists, whatever the council is more comfortable with. We're operating absolutely wonderfully now."

Council member Gary Holmberg agreed that the council should be deliberate in its selection process.

"I want the most thorough background check," he said.

18 BATTLE GROUND GRADS CHOOSE NAVY

Bill Myers, staff reporter

Battle Ground High School graduates are entering the U.S. Navy this year at more than three times the normal rate.

According to Navy recruiter 1st class petty officer Trevor Bowen, 18 young men and women from the graduating class of 2004 will leave over the next six months for basic training at the U.S. Naval Station in Great Lakes, Illinois.

"In an average year, we see two to five enlistments from a high school," said Bowen.

Bowen said students enrolled in the delayed entry program during the past year. The program guarantees enlistees a selected job and departure date.

"Enthusiasm just caught on and spread," said Bowen.

Several enlistees, including Drew Ledbetter who said he enlisted to be an air crewman, joined because they were able to choose a career field and because of future college benefits.

College benefits after a tour of active duty are worth $35,000, said Bowen.

Justin Caseday also enlisted to be an air crewman. Caseday, whose parents are Army veterans, said, "I wanted to serve my country and this seemed like a good thing to do."

Caseday said if he likes the Navy, he'll stay in.

Enlistee Jeff Bononcini said he joined the Navy because his friends, including Caseday, were going in and he had no college plans.

Bononcini, who enlisted to be an aviation ordinance specialist, said the Navy offers good opportunities. "If I like it, I'll stay until retirement," he said.

Enlistee Cameron Cleveland wants to become a diving corpsman. Cleveland said he will attend medical corpsman school after basic training. Then he will attend at least a year of diving training.

Cleveland said training, travel and future college benefits sold him on the Navy.

Jason Parry said patriotism motivated him to enlist. "My dad is a contractor in Iraq," said Parry.

Parry said a guaranteed job in aviation ordinance and opportunities for travel convinced him to choose the Navy.

Bowen said enlistments from other area high schools ranged from one to four this year.

Recruiters from other service branches reported enlistments of between one and six at area high schools.

MERWIN TAP HOTEL RECLAIMED FROM THE PAST

Restoration adds new life to historic building

Bill Myers, staff reporter

A vintage hotel in downtown Woodland has a new life and rooms for rent.

Until recently, having guests in the hotel portion of Merwin Tap & Hotel at 134 Davidson Ave. was just a dream for building owner Marcella Dupettit.

Two years ago, Dupettit hired a contractor to begin restoring the upstairs area above her full-service bar called Merwin Tap.

Earlier this year, Dupettit obtained an occupancy permit for eight rooms. Seven rooms are designed for single occupants. One room is dedicated for a couple.

In addition to the bedrooms, Dupettit, who has owned the bar and hotel for 16 years, restored two shared bathrooms, a community/television room, a game room, and special eating area, now upgraded with a refrigerator and microwave.

No smoking is allowed in the bedrooms for safety reasons, said Dupettit.

Restoration work included installation of sprinkler and fire alarm systems.

Dupettit said accounts vary

as to when the building was first constructed. She said it might have been built in the 1920s or even earlier.

Age adds a certain charm and makes the hotel a special place, Dupettit said.

"With free linen services, the hotel rooms are convenient for construction workers or trainees who must stay in the area for a week or month," said Dupettit.

Rooms rent nightly for $30 per person, plus tax. The weekly rate is $175 per person, plus tax, and the rate for a one-month stay is $450, plus tax. Reservations may be made by calling (360) 225-7339.

Dupettit, who graduated from La Center High School in 1975 with the name Pettit, has lived in Woodland since 1979 except for a two-year stay in Kalama.

New owners will continue recipes, start lunches

Bill Myers, staff reporter

The name and hours will change. The recipes will remain.

Dante's Ristorante, a popular destination for Italian cuisine at 15 E Main St., Battle Ground, will change hands effective July 4.

New owners Leonard and Deborah Whitecotton will call the restaurant Leonardo's Italian Cafe.

The Whitecottons opened Leonardo's Pizzeria in Orchards in 1989 and a second location at Fisher's Landing in 1993. Last year, the couple opened Leonardo's Italian Cafe in Beaverton, OR.

Dante's owners Paul and Jean Caltagirone said they have agreed to the Whitecottons' use of Dante's Italian cuisine recipes.

Paul Caltagirone said the new owners will blend a Dante's tradition of serving excellent Italian dishes with "pizza that is even better than we served."

In addition to traditional Dante's cuisine, the new owners will serve nightly specials from the Dante's recipe collection, including seafood and grilled chicken fettucines, steak and pork dishes.

The Whitecottons say the restaurant will serve fresh-baked breads and freshly-made soups and desserts.

The restaurant will carry on a Dante's tradition of offering beer and wine selections.

Opening for lunches

Deborah Whitecotton said the restaurant location, already well-known for excellent dinners, will be a good place to have lunch by the end of July.

Lunch fare at Leonardo's will include specials, pastas, sandwiches, slices of pizza with dinner salads, and gourmet salads.

Lunches will be served Mondays through Saturdays. New restaurant hours are set tentatively for Mon.-Fri., 11 a.m. to 9 a.m., Fri.-Sat., 11 a.m. to 10 p.m., and Sun., 4-9 p.m.

"To go" orders, meal reservations, and information about catering services may be obtained at 687-4373.

Leonardo's Italian Cafe will be managed by Michael McGary. McGary has a culinary arts degree from Western Culinary Institute and 12 years of restaurant management experience.

The new restaurant manager will honor gift certificates and dinner club cards purchased at Dante's.

The Caltagirones, who created Dante's to be an award-winning Italian eatery almost 14 years ago, said they are transferring the restaurant to good hands.

Paul Caltagirone said the Whitecottons are good friends who will care for customers and support the Battle Ground community.

Future plans?

The Caltagirones, who live near Battle Ground, say they don't know what the future holds.

Paul Caltagirone said his future might include teaching or even a run for public office.

The couple agreed on one certain future event. They will visit their son, Sergio, who works for the National Aeronautics and Space Administration in Washington, D.C. Their other son, Dante, for whom Dante's was named, will stay at Leonardo's Italian Cafe as he continues his education.

Paul and Jean say their last day at the restaurant will be Sat., July 3.

OBITS:

ALTA CANTZLER

Alta J. (Hammond) Cantzler, 82, died June 25, 2004 in La Grande, OR.

Cantzler was born Dec. 9, 1921 in Scotia, California, worked as a licensed practical nurse and as a clerk with the International Paper Co. Federal Credit Union, and had lived in Yacolt before moving to Oregon.

Cantzler studied nursing at Lower Columbia Junior College. She coached a Babe Ruth North Clark team which won the league championship in 1971. She was named to manage the Mid-County All-Star team.

Cantzler enjoyed fishing, crabbing and clamming, and loved the ocean.

Cantzler was preceded in death by her first husband, Lawrence Koegler, in 1973, and second husband, Frank Cantzler, in 1991. Survivors include step-daughters Connie Vandenburg of Iowa, Lani Stone of Oregon, Carol Frost of Enumclaw and Carie Jo Thomas of Sumner, son Gary Koegler of Oregon, three grandchildren four great-grandchildren and 13 step-grandchildren.

Burial was at Yacolt Cemetery, Yacolt, with Layne's Funeral Home, Battle Ground, in charge of arrangements.

ADDIE HEISLER

Addie Dora (Femling) Heisler, 86, died June 27, 2004 in Vancouver.

Heisler was born Dec. 27, 1917 in Vancouver, and lived in Clark County for 80 years.

Heisler enjoyed painting, craftwork, crossword puzzles, playing bingo, card games, board games and games in general She also enjoyed cooking, dining, reading, watching old movies and being with her grandchildren. She was interested in politics.

Survivors include daughters Carole Grimm of Vancouver and Susan Beardsley of Battle Ground, son Frederick Heisler of Portland, brother Norbert Femling of Vancouver, 10 grandchildren and numerous great-grandchildren.

Graveside services will be held Thurs., July 1, 2 p.m., at Memory Memorial Park Cemetery, Vancouver, with Layne's Funeral Home, Battle Ground, in charge of arrangements.

LOIS ST. JOHN

Lois L. "Jerri" (Struble) St. John, 75, died June 25, 2004 in Battle Ground.

St. John was born July 19, 1928 in Alliance, Nebraska, worked as a bookkeeper, and lived in Clark County for 15 years, eight months in Battle Ground.

St. John attended Charter Oak Evangelical Free Church. She was a member of the Daughters of the American Revolution, Colonial Days, Ancient and Honorable, Daughters of the American Colonists, Founders and Patriots, and Clark County Genealogical Society. She was a volunteer at the Veterans' Hospital. She enjoyed traveling, reading, and spending time with her children and sisters. She also enjoyed flowers and flower gardening.

St. John was preceded in death by her husband, William L. St. John in 1991, and brother Frank Struble in 1963. Survivors include daughter Elizabeth Krebsbach of Oregon, sons William St. Johns of Vancouver and Dennis St. John of Ridgefield, sisters Donna Vallejo and Flora Scott, both of Nebraska, and Shirley Todd of Alabama, brother Lee Struble of Missouri, eight grandchildren and two great-grandchildren.

Service arrangements are pending, with Layne's Funeral Home, Battle Ground, in charge of arrangements.

MELVIN PACE

Melvin Thomas Pace, 74, died June 28, 2004 at home in Vancouver.

Pace was born June 3, 1930 in Ventura, CA, graduated from East Los Angeles High School, and served in the Navy 1950-54. He played football for the Navy.

Pace worked in heavy construction much of his life, and worked for Halton Tractor in Portland for 25 years as a mechanic. He lived in Clark County for 38 years, 23 years in La Center.

Pace was a member of the Mountain View Christian Center. He enjoyed singing in the choir and was on the church board. He enjoyed maintaining the buildings and grounds.

Pace also enjoyed his grandchildren, his mountain cabin and traveling with friends.

Survivors include widow Myrtis Mae Pace, at home, son Thomas Pace of Oregon, daughters Deborah Stombaugh of Oregon and Sherry Christensen of Ridgefield, sister Betty Smith of Oregon, four grandchildren, one great-granddaughter, and several nieces and nephews.

Memorial services will be held Fri., July 2, 3 p.m., at Mountain View Christian Center, Ridgefield, with Layne's Funeral Home, Battle Ground, in charge of arrangements.