OPPOSING COMMENTS SOUGHT FOR VOTER'S PAMPHLETS

Every year the Clark County Auditor's Office prints a voter's pamphlet for the September Primary and November General elections and mails them to each household in the county.

Statements and photographs of candidates running for office are inside as well as supporting and opposing statements for area ballot measures.

Greg Kimsey, county Auditor, said the office often receives only supporting statements. The legislative body responsible for placing the measure on the ballot appoints a committee to write supporting and opposing statements.

However, Kimsey said, if no one they know opposes the measure, no opposing statement gets written.

Kimsey said area jurisdictions are currently seeking opposing statements for ballot measures. Committees must be appointed before Tues., July 20.

Once formed, committees have until Tues., July 27 to submit written statements.

So far, resolutions have been received from Fire Districts 3 and 12. Kimsey expects to hear from the Battle Ground and Ridgefield school districts and Fire District 10.

Interested people may contact those jurisdictions and ask to be put on a committee before July 20, Kimsey said.

For more information, contact the Auditor's Office at 397-2078.

TERRITORIAL DAYS A RECORD BLAST

Bill Myers, staff reporter

A record weekend throng approaching 7,000 people of all ages enjoyed Amboy's July 9-11 Territorial Days celebration.

Festivities got underway with carnival rides, exhibits, and evening stage entertainment on Friday that included the coronation of queen Lindsey Campbell.

Campbell sold more than $4,000 in raffle tickets. First runner-up Amanda Sundahl sold more than $3,000 worth of tickets.

Queen Campbell, with crown and sash, finished third Saturday in an age 14-17 youth pole-climb event.

Crowds lined up on Saturday to cheer more than 80 parade entries led by grand marshal Lester Courtney.

"Several entries were handmade family floats that took a lot of time and effort," said event spokesperson Nancy Buckbee.

The Dwayne Melton family won the grand sweepstake trophy with a family entry depicting a country scene and children.

An elaborate Waste Connections truck entry captured best general float and best working truck entries.

The Bob Zumstein family, with a mobile exhibit of vintage road equipment, won the prize for best decorated vehicle.

Lumpy the Rodeo Clown won the best costume award for children. An entry by Frank Emerick took the best antique car prize. The Zumstein family was judged the best horse group, and Tyler Williams and friends captured a prize for best motorcycle. A Chelatchie Rock Co. truck won an award for best load of logs. Cub Scout Pack 349 was named best youth marching group, and the Battle Ground Kazoo Band took adult group marching honors.

Other parade awards went to North County Hardware, Megan and Alisa Bird, Carl DeRoo, Jessica Prew and Tommy Prew.

A traditional log show followed the parade.

Amboy resident Aaron Brown captured first place as all-around logger in adult logging competition. Other winners included obstacle pole winner John Wood and double buck event winners Jake and Mike Nicholas.

Brown won first places in the chain and modified saw races. Wes Bruhn was tops in the log roll event. Jake Nicholas ranked first in the axe throw and adult pole climb events. Marvin Campbell and Nancy Catania, a brother and sister team, won the Jack & Jill competition, and Carrie Campbell and Nancy Catania captured first in the Jill & Jill event.

Winners of youth logging events included Chris Nichols, in age 14-17 pole climb and choker set events; winners in younger choker set categories included Scott Gillette and Grant Gillette. Youth axe throw event winners were Mike McCormack, Jonathon Brown and Grant Gillette.

Winners of the annual lawn mower races were Ramey Waser in the A Main and Outlaw Main events, Justin McCorkle in the B Main event, Brandon Brown in the C Main event and Brenda Olstead in the Women's Class event.

Kevin Arola won the first place raffle prize--a one-night stay at Skamania Lodge in Stevenson. Other raffle prize winners were Stephanie Cameron and Deann York.

TALENT SEARCH WILL SHOWCASE ENTERTAINERS

The annual Harvest Days Talent Search, sponsored by The Reflector, will again offer singers, dancers, comedians and instrumentalists an opportunity to showcase their skills before a large and enthusiastic audience.

The Talent Search is set for Fri., July 16, 7 p.m., on the Harvest Days main stage.

The Reflector offers $700 in prize money to winners in several categories.

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

Winners in each of these six categories will receive $100 each, and the overall winner, called the Entertainer of the Year, will receive an additional $100.

The show is judged on skill and preparation, according to organizer Marvin Case. "Our judges are skilled musicians," said Case. "We hope this show recognizes and promotes hard work among musicians and dancers, while entertaining our audience."

Tryouts were held July 9 when 21 acts were selected for the Talent Search show from 60 entrants. Those acts not selected for the show are invited to perform on the Harvest Days stage Sat., July 17, noon-2 p.m.

Judging the tryouts this year were vocal instructor Katie Hebner, singer Doug Bratt, and promoter Ben Tracy.

The July 16 talent show will be judged by entertainer Tony Madrigal, as well as Hebner and Bratt.

Legends singer Ray Sanchez from Monmouth, Oregon will entertain about 8:30 p.m. July 16 while the judges are making their decisions.

Sanchez sings in the style of both Elvis Presley and Buddy Holly.

Here are the acts chosen to perform in the July 16 show: Ages 1-15, Dance: Joshua Salarzon, and Hillary Stayner and Mallory Stayner; instrumental: Luke Regen, Ethan Camp, Melisa McVicker, and the group of Nicole Wright, Courtney Wright, Daniel Wright, Naomi Wright, Amanda Wright; vocal: Michael McCormic, Andrea Riemer and Carly Back, Chelsea Jordan, and the group of Nicole Wright, Courtney Wright and Daniel Wright.

Ages 16 and above, dance: Stefanie Seamens, and the group of Jenna Wright, Amanda Mermod, Bethany Billingsley, and Felicya Garcia; instrumental: Natalie Gratton, Randy Bumala, Alisa Bird, and the group of Christina Dickson, Benjamin Dickson, Brandon Dickson, Ashley Dickson, Daniel Dickson, Elizabeth Knopp, David Knopp, Joshua Knopp, Eric Knopp and Justin Knopp; vocal: Jennifer Kemp and Garth Graham, Shad Ray, Lisa McGuire, Jesse Cain, Amy Grove.

Information, Marvin Case, 687-5151.

FORMER CITY MANAGER PLEADS NOT GUILTY

Former Ridgefield city manager Randy Bombardier pleaded not guilty July 9 to criminal official misconduct.

Following an arraignment proceding that took less than five minutes, Clark County Superior Court judge Robert Harris set a trial date for Sept. 27.

Bombardier is accused by the state Attorney General of authorizing the improper removal of lead-based paint from the front of Ridgefield city hall in June 2002 while he was city manager.

Bombardier has denied wrongdoing.

Official misconduct by a public official is a gross misdemeanor with a maximum punishment of one year in jail and/or a $5,000 fine.

Painting contractor Eben Drake of Drake's Quality Painting appeared without an attorney for arraignment on a related charge July 8 before judge John Wulle.

Drake, who allegedly prepped city hall for painting and then washed lead paint dust and chips into Lake River, is charged with violating the state Water Pollution Control Act.

The judge said Drake needs counsel with him and rescheduled the arraignment for July 23. It was the second time Drake appeared for arraignment without counsel.

Drake faces a maximum penalty of one year in jail and a $10,000 fine.

Bombardier and Drake are on supervised release.

Marcus Brotherton, staff reporter

Fifteen area dignitaries used gold-colored shovels to break ground July 8 at The Gardner Center, an entertainment and retail complex located on the NE corner of SR-503 and NE 199th St., just west of Maple Grove schools.

Taking part in the ceremony were state Sen. Joseph Zarelli (R-17), Clark County commissioner Betty Sue Morris, Battle Ground mayor John Idsinga, Battle Ground Chamber of Commerce manager Terri Tweedell, former property owner Dick Gardener, city staff, development staff and tenants.

The development is under the direction of Vancouver developer Elie Kassab of Prestige Development.

Construction will begin in August and occur in phases with the first phase of businesses set to open in April 2005.

Access to the site will be off NE 199th and via an extension of SW Scotton Way. An additional entrance northbound off of SR-503 is awaiting approval from the state Department of Transportation, said Prestige project manager Tammie Ferguson.

Tenants on the $10 million, 11-acre development include Rose's Deli & Bakery, Bombe Gelato & Ice Cream, Gentle Dental, Nail's by Vivian, Boston's Gourmet Pizza, a bank, an athletic club with pool, and an eight-screen theater.

Other cafes, sandwich shops and a possible video arcade are under consideration.

Eight life-sized, bronze sculptures by Battle Ground artist Jim Demetro will be disbursed throughout the site.

Sculpture subjects include captain Merriwether Lewis, several family-oriented works, and Elvis Presley and Marilyn Monroe, which will be placed near the theater.

During the ceremonies, Kassab called the groundbreaking "a great day for Battle Ground."

"This will be a real asset to the whole community," Kassab said.

Idsinga praised the job creation provided by the center as well as anticipated positive social affects on the area.

"This is something that's been needed in this town," Idsinga said.

CALL OUT FOR OLD THEATER PHOTOS

The new cinema complex in Battle Ground is not the city's first theater.

In the 1950s, the Bee Gee Theater was located across from Al and Ernie's Foodliner where a tavern currently is at 805 E Main St.

A search is underway for photos of Battle Ground's first cinema to be put into a historical corner inside the new theater.

Photos may be taken to the Battle Ground Chamber of Commerce, 312 E Main St. For more information, call Terri Tweedell at 687-1510.

COUNTY DEVELOPMENT SETS 25-YEAR RECORD

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.

Other times when the County had construction 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, is large-scale commercial projects now underway including a new exhibition building at Clark 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 single family dwellings were at a new high in May 2004. 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.

In the past four years, unincorporated Clark County grew from 166,279 residents to 184,650, according to state estimates.

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 had less first quarter construction activity due to severe winter weather, he said.

Carson said the thing to watch for are 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.

High growth rates continue

More people continue to move to the County, a trend which supports increased area construction levels.

A report issued June 30 by the state Office of Financial Management shows Clark County as the second fastest growing county in the state for 2000-2004 at 11 percent.

About 383,000 residents currently call Clark County home, some 38,800 more people than were in the county in 2000.

Franklin County, which includes the tri-cities area of Pasco, Kennewick and Rich-land, tops the list as the fastest growing county since 2000 at 15.5 percent.

Battle Ground is the fastest growing city in Clark County and the fourth fastest growing city in the state. Battle Ground grew about 52 percent 2000-2004, from 9,300 residents to about 14,200.

La Center grew from 1,650 to 1,990 residents, or about 20 percent.

Woodland grew from 3,780 to 4,140, or about 9.5 percent.

Yacolt grew from 1,055 to 1,135, or about 7.6 percent.

Vancouver grew from

143,560 to 152,900, or about 6.5 percent.

Ridgefield grew from 8,600 to 10,800, or about 2.2 percent.

STUDENT'S VOICE TRAVELS OUT OF THIS WORLD

Alice Perry Linker, staff writer

"Hello, International Space Station, this is Shannon."

The conversation didn't go quite like that, but Woodland's Shannon Breakey recently made brief radio contact with astronaut Mike Fincke as the space station flew across the United States and out into the Pacific Ocean.

Shannon, 13, has been a HAM radio operator for about one year, and along with her father, Mark, also a radio operator, she participated in the annual U.S.-Canadian field day in late June.

Shannon said she attended the field day specifically hoping to get in touch with the astronaut.

"That's why I went," she said. "It was neat. I wish I could have talked to them more."

Working under teacher and group leader Randy Greeley of Longview, Shannon used a hand-held radio to contact various amateur radio stations across the U.S.

"It was fun," Greeley said. "Her dad was holding the antenna and tracking the space station. That's tricky."

The amateur radio association gathered on Cow Creek at a state Department of Transportation site along Spirit Lake Highway. Greeley said they used generators and batteries to contact other radio operators throughout the Western Hemisphere.

Mark Breakey said the group knew that the space station was crossing the western United States headed for the Pacific. Shannon kept trying to reach the astronaut.

At first, Shannon was unsuccessful in her attempts and became somewhat frustrated, Breakey said. Greeley decided to try.

"Randy next took the microphone and called out her call sign, and Mike (Fincke) came back from space identifying her call sign," Mark Breakey said. "Randy handed the microphone to Shannon and she gave the field day contact location information. Mike came back over the radio acknowledging her info."

The conversation was necessarily brief because the space station makes numerous contacts with amateur radio operators as it flies across the hemisphere.

Breakey said that during the station's most recent pass across the Western Hemisphere, it reached about 64 land-based radios.

Shannon, who is home-schooled, will go into the eighth grade next fall. She became an amateur radio operator about one year ago.

"Dad got me into it," she said.

Most often Shannon sends radio signals to other amateur radio operators via one of the satellites orbiting the earth. She said she talks to people in the U.S. and Mexico.

Mark Breakey said that operating an amateur radio is a pastime that teenagers can enjoy, but Greeley said few teenagers or young adults belong to the Association.

"All the HAM clubs are looking for members," Greeley said.

People in Clark County who would like to become HAM radio operators may phone 360-896-8909.

New kiosk highlights exploration

Alice Perry Linker, staff reporter

"At 5 o'clock... we embarked and proceeded up on the NE of an island to an inlet about one mile above the vilage. Encamped on a beautiful grassy place..."

So wrote William Clark on the evening of March 29, 1806, on the return trip of the Lewis and Clark expedition.

The island was the confluence of Bachelor Slough and Lake River, below a bluff on the edge of Ridgefield.

Standing in a new kiosk at the intersection of Pioneer St. and N Main Ave., Ridgefield librarian Ann Margaret O'Reilly pointed to two maps on plaques, designed by Woody Warren, hanging on the kiosk walls.

"That's where they landed and that's where they saw the first (Cathlapotle) plankhouse," she said.

"There were about 900 Cathalpotle living in the village," said Earleen Griswold, a Lewis and Clark committee member. "Now there are about 900 to 1,000 (people) in downtown Ridgefield."

The kiosk and plaques tell the story of the exploration, focusing on Lewis and Clark's Lake River stopovers going west and returning home.

Life-size figures of the two explorers, along with Sacajawea, her baby Pompey and the Corps dog Seaman, stand beside the kiosk which contains information about the long voyage into unknown territory.

Completed last week, the kiosk has been a year-long project headed by Bruce Crockett.

Crockett, however, gives most of the credit to his 11-member committee--a group of volunteers who have spent several hours researching expedition history, designing information plaques and creating figures.

The log kiosk was built by students Colby Gratzer, Chris Renner and Mark Wubben in David Tanner's class at Ridgefield High School.

Other volunteers, including O'Reilly and Randall Pearl, helped with research.

"Everybody contributed to research," O'Reilley said.

Patricia Thompson cut the life-size figures which were painted by Melissa Myers. The dog was done by Lindsey Schoeneman, a senior at Ridgefield High School.

Judy and Ed Sessions, who are fairly new to the community, jumped in.

"We were retired and wanted to get involved," Judy Sessions said. "It's been an exciting project."

Other committee members who worked on the project are Cathy Hughes, Carol Pinnell, Lindsay Warren and Allene Wodaege.

It's not over yet.

Crockett said the committee will be a part of Ridgefield celebrations for the next two years. During the Ridgefield Fourth of July event, the Sessions couple dressed in period costumes and handed out literature.

A Chinook storyteller and a basketweaver appeared at the Art and Cultural Fair in January.

A traveling trunk of Lewis and Clark memorabilia will be displayed during October's Birdfest, Crockett said.

The committee raised nearly $6,000 last winter for the project. The money has been used to purchase logs for the kiosk and will go toward projects such as the traveling trunk.

Although funds are adequate for some projects, committee members would like to do more, and are looking for more members and more money.

"We've spent about half the money," Crockett said, "and we'd like to do projects for the next two years."

The exact spots where the explorers camped are not accessible to the public, as parts of them are archaelogical sites, Crockett said, adding that part of the camp site may now be under water.

But the view from the kiosk can fire imagination. It's easy to visualize the group of men and one woman pulling their pirogues into the marsh and setting up camp.

Clark recorded the first night, Nov. 4, 1805, that he and the Corps spent along the marsh.

"I slept but very little last night for the noise kept dureing the whole of the night by the swans, geese, wite & grey brant ducks &c."

SEVEN COMPLETE POLICE ACADEMY

Bill Myers, staff reporter

Four Woodland and three La Center reserve police officers graduated June 29 after six months of training at the Clark County Reserve Law Enforcement Officer Academy.

Two Woodland reservists received three of four awards handed out during ceremonies held at the Water Resources Learning Center in Vancouver.

Geary Enbody received the "Best Academic" and "Best Overall" awards.

Forrest Sparks earned the "Best Firearms" award.

Graduates Enbody, Sparks, Casey Meling and Eric Moss will fill reserve positions in Woodland.

Graduating reserve officers who will work in La Center are David Cole, James Powers and Joseph Walker.

The La Center Police Department has six reservists, and the Woodland department has 10, including recent graduates.

While no graduates will report for duty at Ridgefield, the city has an active and growing reserve program, said Ridgefield Police sergeant Randy Ostrander.

Battle Ground steps back from program

The Battle Ground Police Department has three reservists and has ceased recruiting reserve officers, said chief Ron Johnson.

Johnson said new police officers in Battle Ground will be full-time, and they will come from existing reservists, lateral entries from other departments, or in the form of newly-hired and trained officers.

Johnson said Battle Ground is a larger city with frequent challenges beyond the capacity of reservists to handle. He said it's not fair to reservists to be placed in such situations. In addition, an improper response by a part-time officer could cause a liability for the city, said Johnson.

The decision to phase out the reserve officer program was made several months ago in accord with the city manager, said the chief.

COSTS OF HIGHWAY SIGNS SKYROCKET

Bill Myers, staff reporter

Costs to businesses that advertise along state highways are skyrocketing.

Business owners paying $35 a year for state Motorist Information "next exit" signs along two-lane state routes will now pay $364 yearly.

Merchants who paid $100 last year to advertise on "next exit" signs and ramps on busy freeways and expressways will now pony up $910 per year. Marilyn Monfort, who owns a two bedroom, bed and breakfast business in Cougar, said that prior to 2000, she paid $10 yearly to maintain her east and westbound signs on SR-503 near Cougar.

The rate went to $35 yearly in 2000, said Monfort. A Washington State Department of Transportation official notified her on April 15 that her new rate will be $364.

Woodland Dairy Queen and Casa Maria restaurant manager Steve Magness, with two business signs along I-5, said increases from $100 to $910 are "unbelievable."

Magness said that he will pay the new rates for 2004-05 and register complaints with legislators.

"What would happen to us if we asked our customers to pay $18 for a hamburger?" Magness asked.

"Still a bargain," says Transportation spokesman

State Transportation spokesman Mike Dornfeld said Department officials began sending letters announcing higher annual fees to business owners at Motorist Information Sign (MIS) renewal anniversaries a few months ago.

Dornfeld said the higher fees, $910 for signs on freeways or expressways with more than 80,000 vehicles per day, $683 for signs on such highways with less than 80,000 vehicles per day, and $364 for signs on conventional, two-lane highways, are needed to cover costs of placing and maintaining the signs.

With an MIS fee, business owners pay for a back panel to hold a sign, sign costs, up to two installations in opposite-direction locations, and up to two ramp directional signs.

The state also charges $115 for changing existing logo signs.

Dornfeld said back panels which hold signs on freeways can advertise up to six businesses. A pair of back panels (one for each direction) containing names of six businesses would generate $5,460 (6 x $910) in annual revenue. Back panels on two-lane routes are allowed up to four business signs, he said.

In Washington, about 2,100 businesses participate in the MIS program, said Dornfeld. If all business owners accept the new fees, they will pay about $1.4 million, which is entirely dedicated to the MIS program, he added.

Transportation traffic engineer Toby Rickman gave reasons for the higher fees in an April 15 letter to Monfort.

Rickman said the 2002 legislature directed the Transportation Department to select a private contractor to conduct the MIS program, but when the Department tried to select a contractor, a state employees union filed for--and was granted--an injunction.

Representatives from the Washington Federation of State Employees contended that privatization would cause state employees to lose jobs.

The injunction was granted. In 2004, the legislature passed a bill authorizing the Department to restart the MIS program and run it until June 2005.

The temporary measure required the Department to recover all costs associated with the MIS program. "This prevents taxpayers from having to subsidize road signs for businesses," said Dornfeld.

Dornfeld said the legislature may again order the Department to privatize the sign program next year. He said experience in other states, including Nevada and California, indicates that private companies charge more than the Department would for signs and maintenance services.

Dornfeld said all signs on state highway rights-of-way must be constructed with reflective aluminum sheeting and "break-away" materials to minimize injury if someone drives into them.

On a rural freeway, a private company would charge more than $20,000 for a set of back panels and ramp signs, said Dornfeld.

Dornfeld said signs are "still a bargain" for businesses, even at higher rates, because they are seen by hundreds, and often thousands of motorists each day.

Monfort said higher fees will hurt small business owners most. Under the rules, Skamania Lodge and Monfort's two bedroom bed and breakfast will pay $364 each year for signs on state routes. "That's hardly fair," said Monfort.

Monfort said she will have a private company make a sign for her business and put it on private property.

"I'll wash the sign once a year myself," Monfort said.

Private property option not available on scenic routes

A Scenic Vistas Act, passed by the legislature in 1999, requires a permit from the Department from off-premises business advertisers who want to post signs that can be seen from a roadway listed as a "Scenic Highway" by the legislature.

Business owners who want to advertise along Scenic Highways can generally do so only by participating in the Motorist Information Sign program.

Permits from the Department, which cost $300, are required for off-premises, business-advertising signs visible from Scenic Highways. If outside an incorporated city, signs must be on commercial or industrial property with at least three visible developments within 500 feet of each other. Signs inside an incorporated city must be on commercial or industrial property.

SR-503, from SR-500 to Yale Lake and west to Woodland, is designated as a "Scenic Highway."

Legislative references for advertising are RCW 47.42.045, WAC 468-66-050 and WAC 468-66-070.

Marcus Brotherton, staff reporter

With half the fiscal year complete and first quarter financial numbers available, Battle Ground City Council members amended the city's 2004 budget in early June.

Mid-year amendments are common, say city officials, and tend to come from conservative estimates when budgets are first created.

City documents show that about $2.4 million more than initially expected will come to the city in 2004d.

Originally set at $50.2 million, Battle Ground's budget for 2004 is now $52.6 million. Revenues and expenditures are balanced.

According to city policy, the city will spend extra resources on one-time purchases only such as construction projects, said city financial director David Reeves. For example, the city will not hire additional employees or undertake projects that require renewable sources of income.

In years past, portions of additional revenue have come from more housing projects than anticipated, but this year's projections were on target, Reeves said. Three hundred single family permits were projected for 2004. Half- way through the year, 150 permits have been granted.

Additional funds are available this year for other reasons, according to city documents.

Some $297,000 came from the sale of the former city hall building, $60,000 more is available from sales tax, $60,000 more from excise tax, $50,000 more from licenses and permits, and $309,000 was left over from last year and carried to this year. Two street and building improvement grants were received for $150,000 and $63,000. Large-scale retailers contributed $188,000 to the city's street fund.

With portions of the extra revenue, the city plans to put more money in the bank at the end of 2004. The city's ending fund balance will be increased by some $697,000 to $2.17 million, or about 35 percent of its annual budget.

Higher end reserves enable Battle Ground to obtain better insurance ratings and interest rates, Reeve said. The city also creates a better hedge against ups and downs in an economy.

Other portions of the additional expenditures will be spent on various improvements to roads and construction projects around the city.

About $55,000 will be spent to create a crossing at the intersection of Parkway and Main.

About $50,000 will be used for a signal at the intersection of Onsdorff Blvd. and SR-503.

Main St. paving projects will receive some $240,000. Main Street will receive an overlay from SW 7th St. to SE 2nd. A cement-treated base/overlay will be constructed from Fairgrounds Ave. to the eastern city limits.

Some $327,000 is earmarked for a police station capital project fund. About $44,000 will go toward a new fire engine.

About $63,000 will be passed through from a federal grant toward building upgrades for the city's senior center.

About $40,000 will go toward new computer software for the city.

Some $188,000 will help construct a signal and projects at 15th Ave.

About $140,000 will be used to help complete paving of W Main St.

Some $50,000 will be spent from the city's park budget and used in conjunction with grant money to help build sidewalks from Main St. along 20th Ave. to Remy Park.

BG CITY RETIRES SEWER DEBT EARLY

Marcus Brotherton, staff reporter

Battle Ground City Council members unanimously approved July 6 a plan to retire about $6.9 million of sewer debt earlier than planned.

The debt was created in 1995 when the city issued bonds to finance costs associated with sewer treatment at the Salmon Creek Treatment Plant.

Battle Ground is in an inter-local agreement with Clark County and the Hazel Dell Sewer District to operate and maintain the plant. Battle Ground's portion of the agreement is 18 percent.

City documents show the city was on target to pay off the debt by 2016, which would have cost the city some $9.8 million. The city will save almost $3 million in interest by paying the debt off early.

City residents would have seen their sewer bills rise by about $7 per month six years from now if the debt was not retired early.

Rapid growth experienced by Battle Ground has brought in funds to pay the sewer debt early, said city finance manager David Reeves.

The lump sum payment to cover the early debt retirement will come from two sources, Reeves said, 100 percent of a regional facilities reserve agency fund, which currently has about $4.8 million in it, and the remainder from the city's sewer fund, which has a balance of about $5.3 million.

Mayor John Idsinga called the plan "awesome."

"That's the way to save taxpayers money," he said.

Riverview Savings Bank again sponsors the Six to Sunset concert series on Thursdays, continuing through Aug. 12, 6-8 p.m., at Esther Short Park in Vancouver.

The Bobby Torres Ensemble will perform Thurs., July 15.

The group combines Latin music with the English language, playing songs by Don MacLean, Cat Stevens, Ivan Lins, Steve Porcaro, and The Rolling Stones.

Other performers in the series The Swingline Cubs on July 22, Johnny Martin on July 29, The Beatniks on Aug. 5, and 5 Guys Named Moe on Aug. 12.

All concerts are 6-8 p.m., and all are free.

Parking is available at the corner of 6th and Columbia for 50 cents an hour.

Concerts are also slated for noon on Wednesdays through Aug. 11 at Esther Short Park.

Scheduled performers include Michelle Britt on July 14, Sheer Bliss on July 21, Stephanie Schneiderman on July 28, Colorfield on Aug. 4, and Tim Ellis and Jim Walker on Aug. 11.

Food vendors are on site. Both concert series are organized by city of Vancouver special events group, 696-8478.

LIBRARIES PLAN SUMMER READING ACTIVITIES

The Summer Reading Program continues this week at branches of the Fort Vancouver Regional Library system and its bookmobiles.

Participants keep logs of every 20 minutes they read, and receive certificates and prizes for reading time.

In addition, craft and entertainment programs are held weekly at branch libraries for summer reading program participants. The program ends Aug. 15.

Teens age 12 by Aug. 31 or going into seventh grade may register for Teen Summer Reading 2004, with the theme, "Get Lost...Read."

Teens completing 10 hours of reading may bring their journals to the library staff and receive a book gift card or movie pass.

Here are the Summer Reading Program events at branch libraries:

Battle Ground

Because of space limitations, the Summer Reading Program at Battle Ground will be held outside, rain or shine. Participants are asked to bring their own blanket or chair if they wish to sit.

On Tues., July 13, 11 a.m., intelligent, trained, pot-bellied pigs will perform amazing feats. Then on Thurs., July 15, 2 p.m., BJ the Clown will practice funny bone therapy with comedy for all ages, plus magic, juggling, storytelling. And on Tues., July 20, Tater A. Peal will ride a six-foot unicycle and eat fire.

Storytime for ages birth to 24 months is 10:30 a.m. Thursdays, July 8-29. Preschool storytime is 10:30 a.m. Wednesdays, July 7-28.

687-2322.

La Center

On Thurs., July 15, 11 a.m., Rick Meyers will perform American folk music, playing the musical saw, spoons, jew's harp, limberjack, banjo, more.

Then on Thurs., July 22, 11 a.m., snakes, lizards and exotic reptiles will invade the library. And ice cream social will be part of the fun.

The summer reading program ends in La Center on Thurs., July 29, 11 a.m., when BJ the Clown will perform comedy, magic, juggling, storytelling and more.

Preschool storytime is 10:30 a.m. Tuesdays, June 15-July 27. 619-1800.

Ridgefield

On Tues., July 20, 2 p.m., The Yarnspinners will entertain with silly songs and mini-plays on children's books.

The Bug Lady will offer facts about insects on Tues., July 27, 2 p.m. Participants can bring t-shirts for silkscreening.

Toddler storytime for ages 1-3 with siblings welcome is 10:30 a.m. Fridays, through Aug. 6. Preschool storytime is 10:30 a.m. Wednesdays, through Aug. 4. 887-8281.

Three Creeks

On Thurs., July 13, 11 a.m., the Sussefusse International Folk Dance Troupe will perform village-style dances from around the globe.

Then on Thurs., July 15, 11 a.m., Nancy Stewart will offer an interactive concert that will set feet to tapping.

And on Thurs., July 15, 11 a.m., Nancy Stewart will provide foot-tapping music with original children's music.

Family storytime is Wednesdays, 10:30 a.m., July 7-Aug. 4. 571-9696.

Vancouver Mall

On Wed., July 14, 2 p.m., the life of pioneers, covered wagons, desert heat and campfire events will be described. Participants will get a chance to sing along.

Then on Wed., July 21, 7 p.m., Scott Hughes will perform juggling feats with scarves, beanbags, balls, rings, clubs and more.

And on Wed., July 21, 7 p.m., Yarnspinners will entertain with silly songs and mini-plays.

Swaddler storytime for ages 0-12 months is 9:30 a.m. Fridays through July 30. Storytime for ages 12-24 months is 9:30 a.m. Wednesdays through July 28. Toddler storytime for ages 24-36 months is 11 a.m. Tuesdays through July 27. Preschool storytime for ages 3-6 is 11 a.m. Wednesdays through July 28. Family storytime is 7 p.m. Tuesdays through July 27.

892-8256.

Woodland

On Wed., July 14, 2 p.m., The Snake Man will provide a slithery journey through the world of reptiles.

Then on Wed., July 21, 2 p.m., Rick Meyers will present American folk music, using musical saw, spoons, jew's harp, limberjack, banjo and more.

And on Wed., July 28, Anne-Louise Sterry will lead a sing-along through storytelling and music. An ice cream social will be part of the fun.

Preschool storytime is 10:30 a.m. Fridays, June 25-July 30.

225-2115.

Bookmobiles

The Summer Reading Program is also offered at bookmobile stops in conjunction with regular bookmobile service. Program events are generally held outside.

Amboy

The bookmobile will stop at Amboy Middle School Thursdays, July 15 and 29, 9:15 a.m.-12:45 p.m., with summer reading activities 10-11 a.m.

Green Mountain

The bookmobile will stop at Green Mountain School Tues., July 27, 10 a.m.-1 p.m., with summer reading program 11 a.m.-noon.

Hockinson

The bookmobile will stop at Hockinson Heights Intermediate School Wednesdays, July 14 and 28, 10:15 a.m.-1 p.m., with summer reading program 10 a.m.-noon.

Yacolt

The bookmobile will stop at Yacolt School on Thurs., July 22, 10 a.m.-1:45 p.m., with summer reading program 11 a.m.-noon.

Bradley Hanson had planned to arrived at his July 3 wedding on an antique John Deere tractor, and then, after the ceremony, whisk his bride away on the same vehicle.

Even though the tractor wouldn't start, the couple married anyway and headed off for a two-week honeymoon trip through Oregon, Idaho, Montana and eastern Washington.

Brandee Mae Sargent, the daughter of Cheryl Sargent and Lonnie Sargent of Woodland, married Bradley Esau Eguene Hanson, also of Woodland, in an outdoor ceremony at the Battle Ground home of the bride's aunt and uncle, Ann and Jim Folck.

The bride graduated from Woodland High School in 2001; the groom in 2002. Both studied diesel technology program at the Clark County Skills Center and at Longview Community College. The bride works at Detroit Diesel in Ridgefield, and Hanson is employed as a mechanic at Northwest Packing.

The bride selected her sister, Shelby Linnemeyer, as maid of honor, along with bridesmaids Tawni Allen, Kimmy Folck and Kayla Folck.

Hanson, the son of Stacie and Gary Milliman and William Hanson, chose Ryan Symons as best man, with groomsmen Karl Linnemeyer, Kyle Robison and Ryan O'Neil.

Both bride and groom collect old John Deere tractors and memorabilia. Hanson restored a 1929 John Deere Style D tractor for the wedding, and had planned to drive the tractor down the isle. But the tractor would not start.

The couple also have a John Deere Style B tractor.

The wedding had a John Deere theme, using the colors of John Deere yellow and John Deere green. The groom and grandfathers wore black bib Carhartt attire with white t-shirts, while the groomsmen wore tan bib Carhartt outfits, also with white t-shirts.

The bride was dressed in a Maggie Sattero gown, and the bridesmaids in yellow gingham eyelet sundresses.

The honeymoon trip included stops at log cabins and other cabins and hotels, starting with a stay in Joseph, OR. Mechanics among those attending got the 1929 tractor running later in the evening, and the groom gave rides to guests.

The couple will live in Woodland.

EDITORIAL:

BERRY FARM FACES END OF ERA

Eight acres and a home are all that remain of Annie's Berry Farm, a well-known La Center landmark which has been sold in five acre parcels.

Buyers are committed to continuing some agricultural production as they build homes on the once 99-acre farm that has produced countless pounds of strawberries, raspberries and blueberries over the past 37 years.

Governmental regulation, standards for worker housing, new rules on agricultural chemicals, and increasing costs forced the demise of the farm which proudly served repeat customers from Longview to Vancouver for generations.

Owner Annie Baker will complete the 2004 harvest season, celebrate with the traditional dinner for all employees, then retire to her new home in Vancouver.

A For Sale sign at 39609 NE 41st Ave., La Center, announces the availability of the few remaining acres and buildings. While the porch remains stacked with crates of freshly-picked blueberries and raspberries, the heyday of Annie's Berry Farm is over. It is the end of an era.

Long trip to America

Annie Baker was born 73 years ago in Korea. Her mother gave Annie's twin sister away to a wealthy family. Annie's 10 other brothers and sisters have all passed away, seven dying young in an impoverished childhood.

Annie's mother moved several times, and Annie grew up mostly in Thailand. At one time she was in a refugee camp.

Annie was working in a military mess hall in Korea where she met her future husband, Lawrence Baker, a U.S. Army captain. They were married in 1951 despite the protests of Annie's family.

The Bakers lived in Korea for the next 12 years where Lawrence operated an insurance business.

At age 21, someone in Seoul, Korea, mistook Annie for her twin and the two sisters were reunited. The twin sister now lives in Hawaii.

In 1963, Lawrence was accused of plotting to overthrow the government of South Korea, theoretically in conjunction with several military officers. He was rumored to be a CIA operative, was arrested, and spent 30 days in jail. He was released on the condition that he leave the country.

The Bakers moved first to Los Angeles, CA then Reno, NV, and Portland, before spending $51,000 for 79 acres in La Center in 1966.

At the time, the farm was mostly pasture for cattle, with about five acres of berries. Lawrence Baker had planned to raise cattle, but turned to berries instead. He cleared more of the land and planted more berries. The fifth and last of the couple's children, Sharon, was born after the move to La Center.

But in 1979, Lawrence, 55, died. Annie was 47, with children ages 12-23. True to her heritage, Annie never remarried. She moved ahead with the labor-intensive berry farm and became well-known for her quality products and cheerful disposition.

Annie bought and then sold an additional 20 acres, leaving the farm at its original 79-acre size. Over the years, the farm produced about 20 acres each of strawberries, raspberries and blueberries.

At first Lawrence hired American youngsters to pick the crops. In the 1970s, he drove a bus to pick up workers from Woodland, Kalama and even Longview.

In the 1980s when American workers grew scarce, Annie hired Vietnamese workers.

In recent years, the harvesting crew has been entirely Mexican.

In 1982, Annie spent about $50,000 on worker housing. The farm now has a capacity to house about 60 workers, complete with kitchen and laundry facilities. The farm still has buses, but they are now used to transport workers to stores twice weekly as required by law.

Some workers return year after year, said Annie, who even babysits for children too young to be in the fields.

Sharon Baker, Annie's youngest child, now lives in Vancouver, but handles bookkeeping and payroll duties which requires about 20 hours a week.

Laws now require farm workers to be paid minimum wage. "Even if they sit in the field all day long, they must earn minimum wage," said Sharon.

Workers send much of their earnings to family members in Mexico, said Sharon, who described Mexican workers as hard-working and happy people. She said she has learned much from her association with them.

Sharon said her mother has worked to meet every new government requirement, including a new water system at the housing area at a cost of $20,000.

"She's a farmer," said Sharon of her mother. "She's got to make a living. The costs keep going up. She did a lot of hard work herself. I'm tired, too."

"It's really difficult to get legal employees," said Sharon, noting that the farm is responsible for judging the authenticity of social security cards.

Workers living in free, provided housing can't be easily dislodged even if fired, said Sharon, noting that an attorney was once hired to force a fired worker to move away.

One former employee has remained in a farm guest house for months.

Crews work 6 a.m.-4 p.m.

Sharon said the farm is subject to surprise, on-site inspections by government agencies, including inspections of its facilities for worker housing.

Annie has planted more than berries. She helped the nearby Highland Berry Farm begin operation, and assisted another neighbor get into the blackcap business.

Since last year, Annie Baker has sold 14, 5-acre parcels. Two brothers bought 20 acres and continue to grow berries. All new owners are required by deed covenants to retain some sort of agricultural production.

Remaining for sale are eight acres, the 2,000 square foot home, a two-bedroom guest house, worker housing facilities and barns.

In addition to Sharon Baker, Annie's surviving children are Mike Baker of Oregon, and Kathy Knutson of Vancouver. Joyce died at age 35 of stomach cancer, and Patty died of a rare, inherited disease in 1993. Annie Baker has four grandchildren.

KIEWIT GETS SWIFT CONTRACT

Kiewit Pacific of Vancouver has been awarded a contract for the repair of the power canal and forebay at the Swift No. 2 hydroelectric project on the North Fork of the Lewis River.

The plant was damaged in April 2002 when the canal embankment failed, and water, soil and rock inundated Highway 503 and the Swift No. 2 powerhouse and tailrace.

The power-producing plant is owned by Cowlitz County Public Utility District.

Kiewit Pacific was the low bidder for the work at $28.8 million.

Kiewit Pacific will construct a concrete-lined canal inside the banks of the existing power canal. The new structure will be about one mile long, the lower end of which is at the existing intake structure which is located across the state highway from the Swift No. 2 powerhouse.

In doing the work, Kiewit Pacific will use an estimated 23,000 cubic yards of concrete. The concrete portion of the canal will measure about 65 feet wide at the base, expanding to about 150 feet wide at the top.

Whereas the canal held about 2,000 acre-feet of water before the collapse, the new facility will hold about 1,100 acre-feet, enough to operate at the plant's former capacity.

About two miles of the canal will not be lined with concrete.

Kiewit Pacific will excavate and rebuild the power canal embankment and do sub-surface grouting work in the forebay area just above the location of the embankment failure.

The contract with Kiewit Pacific includes reconstruction of the 200 feet of SR-503 washed out in the 2002 mishap.

Dave Andrew, spokesman for the Cowlitz County Public Utility District, said work will begin in August and continue into 2005.

Officials expect the power plant to be ready for operation by the end of 2005.

The utility received only one other bid before choosing Kiewit Pacific. That bid was from Scarsella Brothers of Seattle, with a bid of $35.66 million.

Other firms working at the site include VA Tech of North Carolina, a company that is rebuilding the electrical and mechanical systems in the powerhouse, and Henkels and McCoy of Portland, a company that is rebuilding the power switchyard.

Tapani Underground of Battle Ground completed excavation work in the tailrace in late April. Washington Group International of Bellevue is managing the Swift No. 2 reconstruction project for the utility.

OBITS:

BARBARA LATHAM

Barbara Ann (Griggs) 61, died July 8, 2004 in Longview.

Latham was born Jan. 21, 1943 in Richmond, VA, lived in Woodland for over 20 years and moved to Kalama eight months ago.

Latham worked as a bartender at the Riverside. She owned the Idle Hour and Picken Parlor. She also worked as a bookkeeper for several businesses in the area.

Latham enjoyed sewing, quilting, ceramics, cooking and baking. She loved her grandchildren and playing darts. She was a member of the Woodland Moose.

Latham was preceded in death by sister Betty Bennett in 1989. Survivors include widower Lester Latham, at home in Kalama, sons James Wynn of Monroe, Randy Wynn of Woodland, Russ Latham of White Salmon, and John Latham and Timothy Latham, both of Oregon, daughters Shannon Manring of Castle Rock and Marcie Hyke of Nevada, sisters Marilyn Dickerson, Marion Griggs and Brenda Lee, all of Woodland, and Tiny LeClair of Chehalis, 21 grandchildren and several nieces and nephews.

Services will be held Sat., July 17, 11 a.m., at the First Christian Church in Woodland, with the Woodland Funeral Home in charge of arrangements.

MAMIE WRAY

Mamie Kathernia (Sederburg) Wray, 96, died July 6, 2004 at home in Battle Ground.

Wray was born Oct. 28, 1907 in Ridgefield and was a lifelong Clark County resident.

Wray attended West Pioneer Grade School and Ridgefield High School. She worked for 16 years in strawberry fields, ran a cream stand selling produce and milk, worked at Jantzen Knitting Mills, the Washington co-op cannery, ran Fred's Hamburger Stand at Duluth Corner for five years, and sold Fuller Brushes.

Wray enjoyed playing Bingo, crocheting, and gardening vegetables and flowers.

Wray was preceded in death by her husband, Sherman Wray, in 1955, son Vincent Wray in 1932, and sister, Pearl McKee in 2003.

Wray is survived by sons Vernon Wray of Sequim and Don Wray of Vancouver, seven grand-children and eight great-grandchildren.

Services were held July 12, 2004 at Layne's Funeral Home Chapel in Battle Ground with committal in Evergreen Memorial Gardens Cemetery in Vancouver. Layne's Funeral Home was in charge of arrangements.

JACK HILL

Jack E. Hill, 84, died July 6, 2004, at home in Amboy.

Hill was born May 5, 1920 in Pomona, CA, and lived in San Francisco, CA. He attended public schools in Belmont, CA and Sequoia High School in Redwood City, CA.

When Hill was 18, he enlisted in the Army at Presidio of Monterey, CA for the Horse Troopers. He joined the Air Corp in 1941.

Hill was a World War II veteran with honorable service in the Army from 1938-1946 and earned several campaign medals including the Bronze Star and "expert badge" for pistol, rifle, machine gun and submarine gun.

Hill worked 40 years in the builder and metal trades including duties as fab shop foreman and structural, plate and piping systems supervisor. He was an ironworker on buildings and bridges, a boilermaker mechanic, pipefitter and journeyman steamfitter for construction companies and the Trojan nuclear plant. He also installed heating systems for hospitals, refrigeration and air conditioning maintenance for paper mills and fruit growers, and attended trade schools for mechanical engineering and refrigeration at Santa Monica College.

Hill retired in 1984 and last resided in Amboy for 27 years. He enjoyed building outdoor structures, raising farm animals and house pets, reading prophecy, writing editorials and traveling to the beach.

Hill was preceded in death by daughter Janet Bowling of El Cajon, CA who received a donor kidney from Hill at University Hospital in California.

Survivors include his wife, Bertena Hill at home, sons Jack Hill Jr. of Tucson, AZ and Jeffrey Hill of Portland, and daughter Joyce Ehrler of Albuquerque, NM.

Graveside services were held July 9, 2004 at Amboy Cemetery with Layne's Funeral Home of Battle Ground in charge of arrangements.

HAZEL MCCLELLAN

Hazel Violet (Lemon) McClellan, 87, died July 6, 2004 in Vancouver.

McClellan was born Nov. 20, 1916 in Yakima, and lived in Clark County 68 years, last in La Center.

McClellan had an interest in several things including flowers, puzzles, crocheting, reading and collecting porcelain dolls. She enjoyed taping television on her Video Cassette Recorder and loved music.

McClellan was preceded in death by her husband, Jay T. McClellan in 1987 and son Raymond J. McClellan in 1978.

McClellan is survived by daughter Frances Johnson of La Center, sister Bernice Filbert of Portland, brother Kenny Lemon of Snohomish, five grandchildren, 14 great-grandchildren and three great-great-grandchildren.

No services were held. Memorial donations may be made to the National Kidney Foundation. Layne's Funeral Home of Battle Ground was in charge of arrangements.

TOMMY PENNINGTON

Tommy Roy Pennington, 56, died July 6, 2004 in Vancouver.

Pennington was born Jan. 5, 1948 in Visalia, CA, worked as a truck driver, and lived in Clark County for six years.

Pennington was assistant pastor at New Song Family Worship Center. He taught Sunday School, enjoyed studying the Bible, quoted Scripture and developed Discipleship teams. He also enjoyed singing, playing the guitar and gospel music. He liked Garfield and collected Hot Wheels and various hats. He served during the Vietnam War in the U.S. Army.

Survivors include widow Pam Pennington, at home, mother Esther Marie Bennett of Colorado, sons Tommy Pennington Jr. of Colorado, Michael Pennington of California and Stevenray Pennington of Seattle, brother Bruce Pennington of Colorado, and seven grandchildren.

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

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.

Memorial services will be held Mon., July 19, 10 a.m., at Charter Oak Evangelical Free Church, Battle Ground, with Layne's Funeral Home, Battle Ground, in charge of arrangements.

KAREN DE SHAZER

Karen (Bucher) De Shazer, 50, died July 3, 2004, at home in Ridgefield.

De Shazer was born Aug. 11, 1953, in Oakland, CA. She grew up in California and graduated from Cal Poly with a degree in home economics. She was a diabetic since childhood.

De Shazer traveled to Europe several times and authored a Swiss-German cookbook. She lived in Texas and Georgia and worked for Stouffers Hotels in restaurant management.

De Shazer moved to Vancouver where she met and married Ron De Shazer.

De Shazer loved cooking, traveling, gardening, friends, her cows, and her Brittany spaniels. She grew flowers and potted plants which she sold at farmers' markets. She was an active letter writer.

De Shazer was preceded in death by sister Lisa. Survivors include widower Ron De Shazer, parents John and Verna Bucher of California, brother Karl De Shazer, and several nieces, nephews and cousins.

Evergreen Staples Funeral Home, Vancouver, was in charge of arrangements.

RUSSELL MANNING

Russell Dale Manning, 91, died July 7, 2004 in Ridgefield.

Manning was born July 4, 1913 in Cheyenne, WY, worked as a baggage man and clerk for three railroads for 35 years, retiring in 1973.

Manning was a member of the Community of Christ Church, Burlington Northern Railroaders Club, Brotherhood of Railway Clerks, Rose City Lodge #1502, AARP Ft. Vancouver Chapter, and other clubs and organizations. He volunteered with the Railroad Museum. He was an avid photographer. He loved to read and enjoyed woodworking.

Manning was preceded in death by his wife, Beatrice Mary Manning, in 1994. Survivors include friends Betty and Douglas Croft of Vancouver, and his church family.

Memorial services will be held at a later date. Hamilton-Mylan Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.

William Clayton Parker, 58, died July 2, 2004, at home in Brush Prairie.

Parker was born Jan. 14, 1946 in Courtland, VA, lived in Washington for 16 years and was retired from construction work.

Parker attended Gardner-Webb College and Atlantic Christian College in North Carolina. He was a member of the Courtland Baptist Church, Carpenters Union Local 247, and the Moose Lodge. He was an Eagle Scout.

Parker served in the U.S. Army and Virginia National Guard.

Survivors include widow Cindy Parker of Brush Prairie, mother Page Cobb Parker, sons Elliott Parker of Texas and Bryan Parker of New Mexico, step-son Joel Peterson of Spokane, sisters Jane Parker and Nancy Page Parker, both of Virginia, and uncle Robert Cobb of Virginia.

At Parker's request, a private memorial service will be held in Virginia at a later date.

Memorial Gardens Funeral Home, Vancouver, was in charge of arrangements.

MELVIN MURPHY

Melvin Benjamin Murphy, 74, died July 1, 2004 at home in Vancouver.

Murphy was born Nov. 30, 1929 in Yakima, served in the Air Force, and worked as a bridge operator and postal worker.

Friends recall Murphy's gruff demeanor, but say he was always generous to those he loved.

Survivors include daughters Janice Mull of Pennsylvania and Vickie Murphy of Yacolt, son Phillip Murphy of Vancouver, sisters Jannice Murphy of Vancouver, special companion Kimberly Schneider, five grandchildren and one great-grandson.

No services were planned.