LAND NEAR DOLLARS CORNER WILL BE CHURCH SITE
Bill Myers, staff reporter
Wellspring Foursquare Church in Hockinson recently purchased 6.5 acres of land seven blocks south of the Dollars Corner intersection.
Pastor Paul Mackie said the property at 21211 NE 72nd Ave., Battle Ground, is perfectly suited for construction of a new church.
The property, zoned for commercial use, is in an area of homes on small acreage parcels. Mackie said Clark County Community Development officials said permitting a church at the location should not be a problem.
Mackie said a new church could be attached to an existing 2,100 square-foot building on the property. The existing building appears to be in good condition and could be used for youth or other church activities.
The Wellspring Foursquare Church has about 220 members and currently holds services near Hockinson in an old Finnish lodge at 16391 NE 182nd Ave.
About two years ago, the church attempted to acquire the former Meyers Market building across the street from the Safeway Store on W Main St. in Battle Ground.
NEW BOUNDARIES CHOKE BATTLE GROUND EXPANSION
La Center, Ridgefield win, Battle Ground loses on growth projections
Bill Myers, Heidi Wallenborn
Clark County commissioners lowered an estimate of County population growth and proposed shrinking Battle Ground urban growth boundaries during recent Growth Management deliberations.
Commissioners decided Aug. 10 to use an annual County growth rate for the next 20 years of 1.6 percent instead of 1.83 percent.
Commissioner Judie Stanton justified the new projected growth rate with a comparison of about 1.6 percent also drafted for the Portland metropolitan area.
County growth decimated
Commissioners Pridemore and Stanton worried that the County can't afford a higher growth rate. Voters, they fear, won't support tax increases needed for necessary capital facilities.
Commissioner Betty Sue Morris sat silently through some discussions. She said she would not take part in discussions that decimated County growth.
Discussions by Pridemore and Stanton of specific areas proposed for inclusion in urban growth boundaries, especially around Battle Ground and Vancouver, often ended with a commissioner order to "take it out."
"Take it out" they did. Pridemore and Stanton proposed slashing about 1,034 acres from urban expansion proposed by Battle Ground officials.
While most Battle Ground shrinkage is proposed in residential zones, city officials are dismayed over potential losses of land targeted for job creation.
Commissioner proposals would cost the city light industrial, office campus, commercial and mixed use areas as well as about 4,500 jobs, said city planning staff member Brian Carrico.
Commissioners, acting on a request from Battle Ground city council members who fear the city could not afford new sewers for Meadow Glade, declined to add about 1,000 acres in the Rural Center to the Battle Ground growth area.
Is the axe in retaliation?
Battle Ground officials believe the continued hacking back of their proposed urban growth boundary is in retaliation for the city's stance against the County's push for "no net less."
Commissioners are considering adopting a policy that will regulate land zoning inside each city.
The proposal means each city government would agree to not rezone industrial land until every 10-year Comprehensive Growth Management Plan update.
If cities rezone outside of that time frame, that same amount of re-designated land would have to be picked up elsewhere.
For example, if 10 industrial acres are changed to commercial, city officials would have to rezone 10 acres of another use back to industrial.
In early December last year, city staff complained that the County kept sending back their proposed urban growth map since July.
Three maps were sent in, and each time they were returned, the boundary shrunk farther, said Dennis Osborn, deputy city manager and planning director.
The changes were "substantial," he said.
At that time, Osborn said it was "implied" to city staff that if they changed their minds out the no net loss issue, it "would improve Battle Ground's situation."
Pat Lee, County long-range planner, said at the time that a change of stance "may help": when arguing with commissioners to "get back some of that industrial land."
But he also said the city's mindset against no net loss was not the reason boundaries changed.
In late December, mayor John Idsinga sent a letter of negotiation to Pridemore.
In it, Idsinga wrote, "It appears...that the County is very committees to the no net loss issue as Battle Ground is to self-governance. However, there may be room here to move on the issue at hand that may provide a resolution."
One month later, in late January this year, the County appeared to relent and gave back some land Battle Ground had lobbied for, almost back to the original map sent in July 2003.
At that time, Idsinga said, "We're happy. [The commissioners'] plan is back to where we started."
The no net loss issue came up again at the latest council meeting Aug. 2, and council members said a resounding "no" to supporting the County's proposed policy.
City manager eric Holmes said the issue isn't about rezoning land as much as it is about the city's right to govern itself.
"This centers around the question, `should the County dictate to the city?'" Holmes said.
"I feel pretty passionate about this being a local control issue," he said. "This is not a planning issue. We should be able to take full advantage of development opportunities without having to ask permission from someone else."
Council member Alex Reinhold didn't mince words.
"I think this is slimy and backhanded," he said. "If Pat Lee and Betty Sue Morris, Craig Pridemore and Judie stanton want to move into the city limits and run to get elected and are elected, thenthey can run the city."
"Otherwise," he continued, "they should shut up and let us do our jobs."
Every council member, except Mike Ciraulo who was absent, agreed that commissioners meddling with Battle Ground's business jeopardizes the council members' right to represent residents' wishes.
Council member Lisa Walters said she is "not a big fan of the County coming in and telling anybody what they can and cannot do."
On Aug. 10, commissioners denied Battle Ground growth to the west, keeping it to the current city limits, cut it off short to the south, peeled back the northern boundary and took some industrial and commercial land out of the city's long-range growth plans--the biggest cut they have taken thus far.
La Center, Ridgefield wins
La Center officials are celebrating a commissioner decision to add about 35 acres at NW Timmen and La Center roads to the city's urban growth boundary.
La Center planner Eric Eisemann said the land should serve area property owners and city residents to produce retail and office jobs.
Commissioners accommodated requests from Ridgefield city leaders to add large chunks of job-creating land east of I-5 to the city's urban growth boundary.
About 530 acres on NE and NW 279th St. are proposed for future business park, light industrial and office campus use.
About 200 acres east of I-5 and north of NW 279th St. was included as Agriculture-20 land that could be converted in the future for industrial use.
Commissioners denied a request by Ridgefield officials to bring farm land east of NE 10th Ave. into the city's urban growth boundary.
"Stunned"
After deliberations, Morris said she was "stunned" as parcel after parcel were sliced from urban growth areas.
The decisions ignore history and will cause losses of future jobs, said Morris.
Morris said she was pleased with the La Center addition and happy for a Salmon Creek man whose 10-year effort finally resulted in his 3.5-acre parcel being included within the Vancouver urban growth boundary.
Morris said her real fear is that not planning now for realistic growth will cause construction of capital facilities that will not be adequate for future populations.
Waiting until later will force taxpayers to pay far more for property needed for infrastructure and far more to build them, Morris said.
Maps showing proposed boundaries were on public display on Aug. 12, 16 and 17. Commissioners planned to invite public comment at their Aug. 17 meeting before adopting new boundaries.
Information telephone is 397-2375, ext. 4993.
SR-500/GHER RD. PROJECT AHEAD OF SCHEDULE, NEARS END
Heidi Wallenborn, news director
The new interchange at SR-500 and Gher Rd. in Orchards may be fully operational as early as September if the dry, warm weather holds.
A closure over Aug. 13-16 gave Tapani Underground and state Department of Transportation crews time to prepare new east-west lanes for traffic on the newly paved overpass bridge, including installing concrete medians and signs.
Doug Roemer, Tapani superintendent of the project, said east-west traffic on SR-500 resumed later on Aug. 16.
The former interim roads on the north side of the bridge will be constructed as on and off ramps for access to I-205 and Fourth Plain Blvd. now that traffic has been diverted to the overpass.
Off ramp work is expected to be finished and the new interchange fully operational by Sept. 24, said state officials.
Now that traffic has shifted to the overpass, new SR-500 eastbound on and off ramps on the south side are fully functional to take traffic past NE 112th Ave.
After all roads are in full use, work will subside until spring when landscaping and finishing touches, such as final top-lift paving and lane striping will take place, say state officials.
"Ahead of schedule, under budget"
The $26.3 million project is funded through the state's "Nickel" package, or 5-cent gas tax.
17th District state representative Deb Wallace (D-Vancouver) was on site touring the new bridge July 29 before it was paved with asphalt.
"This is one of my favorite projects," she said. "It's ahead of schedule and under budget, and it's been long needed. This is fabulous."
Wallace was also impressed that the project is almost finished so quickly after being approved in the state legislature, she said.
"We're standing on a nearly complete project," she told state and Tapani officials. "To get this far in two years is incredible. This is exactly what people want to see with their investment."
Leon Winger, assistant area engineer for the state, said the project has been smooth.
"I see how much there is yet to do, then I sit back and see how much has been done in a year," he said. "It's getting done, and done well."
Family of ducks took up residence, keep flaggers cheered
Shortly after a stormwater retention pond was created on the southwest corner of the project in front of the state Patrol building, two Canada geese flew in, said Winger.
Five goslings hatched this spring and still live there. A peek over the overpass showed the now nearly adult geese resting on asphalt, heads tucked under wings while noisy construction and motorist traffic whizzed by.
Flaggers were kept entertained on long days as the young family ventured into traffic and the construction area when they branched out of their surroundings, Winger said.
"We provided assistance and herded them back," he said, grinning. "It's been one of the neater parts of this project."
QUICK FACTS ABOUT THE SR-500/GHER RD. PROJECT
Information provided by general contractor Tapani Underground of Battle Ground
** $26.3 million project funded with the 5-cent state gas tax and the City of Vancouver.
** Project began in August 2003.
** Traffic switched to staging line on November 2003.
** North ramps (current stage line) will be complete in September and the NE 112th intersection reconstructed.
** Full traffic flow will resume mid-October.
** About 450,000 tons of material was used on the project, with another 50,000 tons expected.
** Base rock placed on project was 40,000 tons, asphalt was 54,000 tons.
** About 90,000 square feet of walls were built.
** Tapani Underground had about 42,000 "man-hours" on the project, at about $30 per hour. Average number of employees assigned was 20. **The amount of material delivered per shift was 6,000-12,000.
** Length of project: 1 mile.
CIRCLE C FINED FOR PERMIT VIOLATIONS
by Michelle Kapitanovich
Circle C Rock Products in Ridgefield was recently fined $10,840 by the state Department of Ecology for failing to prevent water pollution during its operations.
The sand and gravel mine, located at NW 334th St. and Pekin Ferry Rd., has until Sept. 3 to apply for relief from the penalty by providing additional information and/or appeal the decision to the state Pollution Control hearing Board.
An appeal will likely be made, according to a press release from property owner Netta Groat.
Circle C uses water for washing and crushing rock, and dust control, said Ecology spokesperson Sandy Howard.
Ecology inspections in March and April revealed that muddy water was being discharged in Mud Lake.
The company was also charged with not monitoring its water discharges and failing to respond to oil spills on the property.
Mud Lake flows into Lewis River. Muddy water can irritate fish gills and smother fish eggs when particles settle on gravel spawning areas.
Following spring visits, Circle C Products retailed Maul, Foster & Alongi to assist with modifications to the site.
Improvements were made to the stormwater management system immediately after the first inspection, including cleaning up visible oil sheen, raising the outlet of the holding ponds so they are less likely to overflow and adding a dike, said Neil Alongi.
These changes were hampered, however, by wet site conditions.
More improvements were made in May, including installation of a stormwater bypass system, tweaking the first set of improvements and creating an updated Stormwater Pollution Plan.
Alongi said Circle C disagrees with the charge that it failed to respond to oil spills on site. The company responded to spills as soon as they were made aware of them, he said.
The company met its permit limits in the most recent monitoring report.
CONTRACTOR HELPS LEAD KALAMA STREETSCAPE IMPROVEMENTS
by Michelle Kapitanovich
Kalama entrepreneurs and residents knew general contractor Morall Olson was onto something when he opened an office on N First St. three years ago.
Taking a drab storefront, Olson added columns, recessed panels, a big bay window and a classy, old-style sign, giving his office a turn-of-the-last-century look that stands out along Kalama's main thoroughfare.
Olson was the first, said Mark Wilson, chairman of the Kalama Community Action Plan, to implement a vision for transforming downtown businesses.
"We can point to Morall's project and say, `It doesn't take a lot to change what a storefront looks like, and it isn't terribly expensive to do it.'" Wilson said.
Olson has operated MJ Olson Enterprises since 1991. Although he does residential and commercial construction, he specializes in high-end residential projects. His company builds five to 10 home each year.
Olson's latest Kalama project is renovation of the old Town Tavern, located across from city hall. Through it, he hopes to continue raising the quality of construction in the city and help showcase its historic roots.
Olson's efforts are especially relevant to the city's Action Plan. This coordinated menu of activities and projects seeks to improve economic conditions and provide future direction for the city.
One goal calls for improving the commercial district streetscape so it is compatible with the community's heritage and encourages customers to spend more time there.
The Town Tavern, built in 1925 and formerly owned by the Johns family, was a popular gathering spot for several years, said resident Bill Boatman. A meat market also operated within the building.
"Andy Carter had that meat market, and he had dill pickles in a 50-gallon wood barrel," Boatman recalled. "Us kids would go in, and he'd give us a pickle."
Rotting wood floors caused Olson to gut one-half of the 4,400 square-foot building down to the cement walls.
"Everything was pretty well destroyed on that half because of the wood floors," Olson said. "It was in pretty sad shape when we purchased it."
Despite it's poor condition, Olson was sold on the Columbia River view he saw from the roof. To capitalize on that amenity and the opportunity to have signage that faces I-5 and the city, Olson will add a second story.
Plans are to include a clock tower in the northeast corner, visible from downtown and I-5, and a third-story conference room.
"We're definitely trying to tie into the old part of Kalama," Olson said. "When we're done, we want it to look like it has been there since 1925."
"The clock tower gives it a focal point," he added. "I wanted it to have something the community could use."
Olson expects to complete the project within six months. He gives special credit to his wife, Wendi, an in-house designer Doug Staples, who have helped form this and other projects.
The building will house Olson's office and six tenants.
Wilson believes Olson's Town Tavern project is setting a standard for future construction within Kalama.
"I think it will create a very nice centerpiece for the community, particularly with the clock tower," Wilson said. "I think it will have a significant impact on the way the town feels."
Olson's other projects have earned him a strong reputation with city officials as well.
Kalama Public Works director Carl McCrary first met Olson about eight years ago when Olson built an apartment building in town.
"Right off the bat, he said he wanted street lights, curbs and gutters," McCrary said. "He said he wanted to do whatever it took to make it look good and presentable. It was like a breathe of fresh air."
McCrary has since worked with Olson on other projects, including a high-density, four-lot development on a steep lot called Kalama Old Town Courtyard.
Olson's projects "are the nicest developments I've seen in Kalama, and I've been in this job 18 years," McCrary said. "From the sense of looking really attractive and improving the city, I think he's done an excellent job."
Olson's business had been headquartered in Ridgefield. He takes a personal interest in Kalama because he and his family live there, he said.
"We like the small-town atmosphere and wanted to raise a family, so it made sense to be closer to work," he said.
AUDIO GLITCH GETS NEW TRIAL FOR RASMUSSEN
Heidi Wallenborn, news director
Former Battle Ground public works employee Glenn Rasmussen will get a new trial in September because the audio portion of a video tape of his June trial in which he was found guilty of theft of time is non-existent.
Without the audio portion, there is no legal record of the trial.
Rasmussen was sentenced in Clark County District Court July 14 to 15 days jail, a $600 fine, about $560 restitution to the city and two years "bench" probation where he would report to a judge.
Rasmussen, 42, was found guilty of stealing three days worth of time last year by lying on time cards.
When judge Kenneth Eiesland was told during sentencing that the audio was missing, he declined to grant a new trial pending the outcome of attempted recovery.
As a result, Rasmussen's attorney, beverly Lavy, asked for an appeal to be heard in Superior court. Eiesland set the appeal bond at $10,000, of which Rasmussen posted 10 percent, effectively holding off the time he'd have to complete his sentence.
Battle Ground prosecuting attorney Chris Sundstrom said Rasmussen will appear before Eiesland Wed., Aug. 25 for a new trial date, likely in September.
According to Sundstrom, Rasmussen will have a new jury and still be heard in District Court.
The case is being heard through the County rather than Battle Ground because Rasmussen believes he wold not receive a fair trial in the city.
DISTRICT 12 TO ASK VOTERS FOR MORE ROOM
Alice Perry Linker, staff reporter
Similar to families that outgrow their first house, Fire District 12 has outgrown the Pioneer Station on NE 10th Ave. in Ridgefield.
And, likewise to those families, the District must come up with the money to build a bigger place.
As a result, the District will need a little help from taxpayers, and on Sept. 14 will ask voters to approve raising their taxes to help pay for the new station.
Fire chief Larry Bartel said there is $3 million budgeted to build a new station on District-owned property adjacent to I-5.
"It's a three-pronged approach," Bartel said.
Under the plan, $1 million will come from property and savings; another $1 million will come from new tax revenue generated by commercial development, such as Dollar Tree.
The third $1 million will come from property owners who will be asked to add 10 cents per $1,000 of property value to their tax payment.
"We'll dedicate the tax revenue for 20 years to the new building," Bartel said.
The existing station and main office on NE 10th Ave. has been remodeled several times and is stretched to the limit, he said.
"It's time," Bartel said. "We are out of room now. We can't remodel anymore."
At the end of 20 years, taxes will go toward additional capital improvements or whatever else may be needed.
"I'm sure we'll need more taxes to pay for full services," Bartel said.
The current District tax levy is $1.31 per $1,000, with an additional 33 cents for emergency services. The bond rate is about 25 cents per $1,000, Bartel said.
"We've tried to keep it low and economical," said Division chief Tim Dawdy, who is spearheading the building project.
A $2.8 million bond sold about five years ago paid for the I-5 property and a new station in La Center.
La Center's new station has separate sleeping rooms for firefighters and additional rooms for volunteers who live at the station.
The Pioneer station has one small dormitory-style sleeping room.
"We've taken a stance that everybody needs their own room," Bartel said.
The District uses a combination of paid and volunteer firefighters, with each firefighter serving a 12 or 24-hour shift.
If built, the Pioneer station will house a training room, something it lacks now. Training exercises are done at La Center.
Larger work spaces for firefighters and a larger kitchen/dining area are part of the plan.
Dawdy said the new location will put the central office in the middle of the 66-square-mile District.
As the Ridgefield/La Center area has grown, so has the need for additional staff, said Bartel. The district has hired a firefighter/mechanic, a part-time marine firefighter and an emergency services division chief.
Dawdy said the District has hired ODA Architectural firm of Vancouver to draw a preliminary design.
If voters approve the levy increase, building can start next year and the station would be finished by 2006.
"We want people to understand the need," Bartel said.
IT'S HOT; SAVE WATER
BG supplements supply from Clark Public Utilities
Heidi Wallenborn, news director
In the summer of 1996 in Battle Ground, watering lawns by odd and even addresses was mandatory.
After a reservoir and two wells were constructed in 1997, water was plentiful and a moratorium on building was lifted. The population was about 7,000 residents.
Although the situation this summer is not as dire, city officials have had to purchase water from Clark Public Utilities this summer to supply enough water for 14,500 residents.
An intertie to the city's system feeds enough water to the community. But in July, the cost to purchase back-up water was about $13,000, said Sam Adams, public works director.
"CPU gives us a really good bulk rate," Adams said.
The utility charges $1.15 per 780 gallons, or square cubic foot.
On July 26, the day with the highest draw on the system since May, 614,700 gallons was purchased from the utility to supplement the city's eight wells which put out 2,200,937 gallons. The total water used that day by residents and businesses was 2,815,637 gallons.
The city has had to supplement its water needs even though a two-million gallon reservoir went on-line this spring and a new well was constructed. The well should be in use by mid-August, Adams said.
Testing for two more wells, located at Remy Park on SW 20th Ave. and city-owned vacant land on NW 20th Ave. will begin by the end of August, with construction to begin next year.
"Finite resource"
Meanwhile, city officials are asking residents to think about what they water and how long water is used.
"It's a finite resource," Adams said.
To help, Joan Hall, public works engineering clerk, designed a conservation cooperation meter board with TK Graphics who also built the prominent sign.
The meter is on a grassy lot on the corner of W Main St. and SW 5th Ave. across from the post office.
During the week of August 9-13 the "pointer" was on "high," which means conserving water at that time is critical.
"It's a visual," Adams said. "When it's hot, there is a lot of stress put on the system. We just ask for people's cooperation and for them to be aware of their water use."
"You'll notice that the sign never says conservation is not needed, even when demand is low," he added.
In addition to the sign, staff are sending out conservation tips and notes in water bills, Adams said.
Eric Holmes, city manager, said it's important that people are aware of using resources.
"The city is also doing its part to conserve," Holmes said.
Water use for lawns and landscaping throughout the city has been cut by half, he said, and a drip system put in at city hall for "rooting" plants.
It's not just residents who need to conserve, Holmes said. Businesses should be aware of when, how much and where their system is watering, especially making sure sidewalks don't get doused.
Hall recommends homeowners visit hardware stores to purchase low-flow shower heads, faucet and toilet mechanisms. A dripping faucet can waste about 2,000 gallons of water per year; leaky toilets can dump 200 gallons per day. Hall also said there are tax breaks available for those who purchase energy efficient appliances.
Adams and Holmes said using water in off-peak hours, such as mid-afternoon and before bedtime, helps reduce stress on the system.
"Start the dishwasher and washing machine before going to bed at night," Adams recommended, "and only when they are fully loaded."
Other pointers are to water every three days during the summer, in the early morning or evening when evaporation is less likely to occur. Place a 2 to 4-inch layer of mulch around plants and trees to avoid excess evaporation.
Adams said a typical Battle Ground household uses 500 gallons per day. The city's charge is $1.90 per 780 gallons, or square cubic foot. Those who go over 12,000 gallons monthly pay $2.40 per square cubic foot.
BATTLE GROUND GRAD PLAYED AT REAGAN FUNERAL
Bill Myers, staff reporter
Former Battle Ground High School musician Jason Hafer was part of a music entourage at former president Ronald Reagan's June funeral service in Simi, CA.
Hafer, now an airman, plays bass in a U.S. Air Force band.
A 2003 graduate and son of John and Donna Hafer of Battle Ground, Hafer plays in the 48-member Air Force Band of the Golden West stationed at Travis Air Force Base, CA.
Hafer's music career started while he attended Lewisville Middle School. He played in the advanced jazz band while in high school.
"A great honor"
"It was a great honor to be part of our nation's history and something I'll never forget," Hafer said of his experience in Simi.
Hafer said the band played before, during and after the ceremony. Several selections were hymns chosen by the late president before he died.
The service at Simi was attended by about 500 visitors, said Hafer. At least that many people, including security and media personnel, were "behind the scenes" at the event.
EXPANSION UNDERWAY AT L.C.H.S.
Bill Myers, staff reporter
No students are there, but La Center High School is buzzing with activity.
Workers at the campus are tackling about $5.6 million in construction projects.
Projects include a complete overhaul of the administration, cafeteria and entry areas, construction of a two-story classroom building and a vocational metal shop.
District superintendent Chuck Anderson said remodeling of the administration, cafeteria and entry areas should be finished in time for the September school start.
Students will enter a new, more secure entry, visible to administrators who will be in new offices with window views of an expanded cafeteria area.
The new administration area will include a bigger student counseling and career center.
Workers are also scurrying about a new, nearly 25,000 square foot, two-story classroom building located behind the main high school. The new building will contain a library, science laboratory and 11 classrooms.
Workers erected a concrete block vocational metal shop building about 100 feet east of the new, two-story addition.
The new 2,500 square foot shop building will be used for welding and other metal vocational classes, said Anderson.
Additional classrooms gained from construction will provide for future community growth. The new classrooms will accommodate 250 to 300 new students, said Anderson.
Anderson said a bond, approved two years ago by La Center district voters, will pay for most of the high school work. The state contributed about $221,000 to the project.
Skyward Construction Co. of Ridgefield is the general contractor.
10-YEAR OLD IS "FRIEND TO THE RESCUE"
Heidi Wallenborn, news director
Kitterboo, Mickey, Baxter and Petey are fortunate kittens.
Natalie Tetrault, a 10-year-old Ridgefield girl, rescued them from being "owl food and coyote bait."
The youth has been a familiar site since mid-June in her Mt. Vista neighborhood with a red wagon full of kittens looking for good homes.
If those kittens could speak, they may likely call her their champion. To date, 16 have been taken in--13 adopted, three waiting.
Natalie and her mom, Donna Tetrault, rescued the kittens from an abandoned barn in Ridgefield this year. She rescued one last year and kept her. When Ginger came into the household, she weighed 12 ounces. The hefty calico now weighs 12 pounds.
"I was at my friend's house and she told me about the kittens in her grandma's barn," Natalie said. "It made me sad. I wanted to do something."
She explored the old barn and found not only a passel of live kittens and adult cats running around, but a slew of skeletons and dead ones half-eaten and left by raccoons, owls and coyotes.
Although the owners put out food for the feral cats and kittens, Natalie didn't like seeing them flea-infested and bait for other animals. She came up with the "friend to the rescue thing," said Donna.
With the owner's permission and the backing of her mom "to keep them from becoming next year's parents," Natalie undertook her crusade. In addition to what she saw in the barn, Natalie's drive to begin the campaign was her being shut out of her brother's social volunteer hours for Boy Scouts at the Humane Society for Southwest Washington. She wasn't old enough.
"It made me upset," she said. "So I did this."
Kittens are taken to the Tetrault home and washed "several times" to de-flea them, then taken to the vet to be checked and cleaned for "eye gunk" and ear mites, and handled constantly to get them used to human touch, said Donna.
Vaccinations, spaying and neutering for so many animals is cost-prohibitive, Donna said.
The kittens are fed high quality formula, wet and dry cat food and are litter-box trained before being sent home with anyone.
And, said Donna, they don't give the kittens away to just anyone.
"We felt good about all the people we went to," she said. "We asked all the pertinent questions. We supply canned and dry cat food to the family when the kitten leaves."
Natalie has also put out fliers at veterinary clinics and placed advertisements in newspapers.
"We got more phone calls than we ever imagined," Donna said.
Some new owners have kept in touch with Natalie with e-mails and photos of their rescued pets.
"The reports back from veterinarian office visits have been good," Donna said. "The kittens all seem to be healthy."
At home, Natalie greeted a visitor in the entryway bearing an oval "dog bed" with three sleepy, roly-poly kittens. Round bellies and clear eyes showed health as they lazily swiped at each others ears in play.
Although the household sports two cats, one dog, two birds, two turtles and a tarantula, Natalie eschews the idea of becoming a veterinarian.
"She has an aversion to blood," said her mother as the youth grinned.
"I'd rather work for animal control and make people take care of their animals," she said.
To inquire about available kittens, call the Tetraults at 573-4278.
ARSONIST KNOCKS OUT PATROL COMMUNICATIONS
On Aug. 5 about 11:50 p.m., someone set fire to the Washington State Patrol communications tower at the Orchards headquarters.
Ironically, the arsonist struck the same day that thousands of law enforcement officers had attended a memorial service earlier for slain Clark County Sgt. Brad Crawford.
State Department of Transportation headquarters share the building and tower at 11018 NE 51st Circle with the Patrol.
Officials from Clark County and Vancouver Fire Marshall's offices said someone set fire to cables and wires at the base.
At one point, flames reached nearly the entire height of the 202-foot structure, said trooper Garvin March.
Officials will not say what was used to start the fire, as the incident is under investigation.
No one was injured, and the three-story building itself was not damaged.
Communications for the State Patrol in Clark County was moved to another frequency because of fire damage. Frequencies for Cowlitz, Lewis and Skamania counties were not affected.
Communications for the Department of Transportation will be through a temporary system to operate dispatch until repairs are made.
BIG PARTY LAUNCHED PORT'S BOAT AREA
Heidi Wallenborn, news director
Free hamburgers, hot dogs, cake and about 400 people marked the grand opening of the Port of Ridgefield's newly refurbished boat launch.
The party, held Aug. 4, was hosted by Port officials. Commissioners Roy Randel, Joe Melroy and Bruce Wiseman, as well as Port executive director Brent Grening stood guard over the grill while providing Port updates on several projects.
A waterfront bench was dedicated in honor of longtime Ridgefield resident and former city council member Don Fergen.
Over the years, Fergen has been active in the community and a Port proponent, as well as a teacher in the school district.
"This seemed just a small way to honor and thank him for all the things he's done for this community over the years," said Melroy.
The new boat launch and picnic facility is accessed from downtown Mill St. to Lake River.
The $350,000 construction project was funded in part through a state Interagency Committee for Outdoor Recreation grant.
Money paid for paving a new parking lot, new launch floats, a new picnic area and day dock.
MULTI-USE COMPLEX SET FOR EAST BG
Marcus Brotherton, staff reporter
Plans are in motion to develop 108-acres in east Battle Ground, a project that represents one of the single largest investments by one developer in Battle Ground's history.
Developer Dennis Pavlina of the Gold Medal Group, LLC, has purchased the site from area developer Mike Achen for $7.3 million.
Pavlina has also developed the Parkway IV office complex near the Heathman Hotel in Vancouver as well as projects in Idaho and Oregon. He estimated the Battle Ground Center will take 10 years to fully develop.
"The size of the property appealed to us," Pavlina said. "It gave us the opportunity to look long range."
Called the Battle Ground Center, the project will feature homes, offices, retail space and light industrial work places.
The wedge-shaped development site is bordered by NE 199th St. to the south, NE Commerce Ave. to the east, and the Lewis & Clark Railroad to the west.
The majority of the site is devoted to retail/service and light industrial uses such as distribution centers and manufacturing businesses. A 33-acre parcel at the southeast corner is zoned light industrial. Two businesses currently exist in the park--Old Castle Glass and Ideal Foods.
Pavlina said the site structure is purposely set up to yield jobs.
Preliminary studies show the property has the potential to generate 1,200-1,800 jobs, said Kristi Cherry, director of site development and planning for Gold Medal.
About 20 acres on the north portion of the site are devoted to housing and have been sold to New Tradition Homes. Some 174 homes are expected.
Infrastructure improvements, including extending NE Rasmussen Blvd. to the east and NE Commerce Ave. from Rasmussen north, began in July.
Housing construction is expected to begin in January.
Commercial construction is expected to begin spring 2005, said Carmen Villarma from The Management Group, who will handle marketing, property leasing and other services for the Gold Medal Group.
Villarma said a restaurant owner has expressed interest in a portion of the retail space, as well as two credit unions and a jewelry store. TrailTek, a manufacturer of aftermarket recreational vehicle accessories, has signed on to lease space.
RIDGEFIELD SCHOOLS CONTINUE FIELDS PROJECT
Marcus Brotherton, staff reporter
A new sign is in front of Ridgefield High School, and the second half of a project is underway to improve an outdoor athletic complex.
The sign reads First Independent Bank Sports Complex, in honor of longtime community supporters and banking family members Ed and Mary Firstenburg.
The Firstenburgs, whose three children graduated from the school, donated $150,000 toward the complex.
In phase one of the project, which took place summer 2003, fields were worked on to make them playable throughout the 2003-2004 school year.
In phase two, now underway, improvements include regrading the existing football practice field, installing drainage pipes, lighting and new goal posts, building a pathway to the southern perimeter of the fields, adding handicapped parking, constructing a new 186-person-capacity bleachers and three team benches and building a 836-square-foot concession stand and restroom facility.
The project will cost about $400,000, said District superintendent Mary Vagner, but none of the money will come from the general fund.
"Really, fundraising has been a community-wide event," Vagner said. "The community has really pulled together."
In addition to the Firstenburg money, some $75,000 came from a youth activities grant. About $160,000 was raised by volunteers, including the Lewis River Soccer Club, the Ridgefield Booster Club and District employees.
Vagner said a construction time line has not been established. Activities will continue on the fields this fall.
An environmental review of the site is presently before Clark County Community Development Department officials for review.
TOURISM TAX SHUFFLED
Marcus Brotherton, staff reporter
Visitors to some hotels in southwest Washington will soon pay $2 more per room nightly in taxes.
Supporters of the new tax say it will provide more stable funding to attract tourists.
The new tax was birthed in 2003 state legislation that allows cities and counties to establish Tourism Promotion Areas (TPAs).
A TPA is a specific region that funnels tax proceeds to tourism promotion devices.
The new tax is not applied statewide. Rather, area lodging providers vote to initiate the new tax for their region only, said Jan Bader, Vancouver program and policy development manager.
Unincorporated Clark County and Vancouver hoteliers will be affected by the change, as well as several other regions across the state. Some 61 percent of area hoteliers supported the change, Bader said.
Proceeds collected from area hotels will be channeled to the Southwest Washington Convention & Visitors Bureau, a non-profit organization dedicated to creating awareness about the region.
Bureau employees use several methods, stipulated by state law, to market the region toward meeting and convention planners, business and pleasure travelers, traveling fraternal organizations and tour operators.
Marketing methods include an area tourism magazine, a website, an information building in Vancouver and specialty services such as itinerary preparation for groups of foreign tourists.
Visitors spend more than $231 million annually in southwest Washington, according to Bureau reports.
Prior to the TPA tax, the majority of the Bureau's budget was funded by a 4 percent lodging tax placed on area hotel and motel rooms.
The lodging tax will still be in place, but County and city officials will now use it to pay off a bond used to finance a newly constructed Exposition Center at the Clark County Fairgrounds, Bader said.
Once the Expo Center is paid off, the lodging tax, by law, can be used for either operations or construction of capital projects that affect tourism, Bader said.
Reports show the TPA tax will bring in some $800,000 annually, an amount that will rise when the new 225 room Vancouver Convention Center and Hilton Hotel is completed in summer 2005.
Bureau president Kim Bennett described the TPA as "a good, stable source of funding." One challenge the Bureau faces is juggling varying levels of income sources.
The Bureau's budget for 2004 is $812,000. About $22,000 of that comes from membership dues. The bulk is received from city and County grants. About $270,000 comes from a variety of sources, Bennett said.
In 2003-2004, the Bureau received a supplemental grant to offset the $270,000 for two years, but the grant expires at the end of 2004. Prior to 2003, the budget was offset by dipping into original seed money used to create the agency, but that was only a short-range plan, Bennett said.
With the TPA, the Bureau's income sources will not vary as much, Bennett said.
The new tax affects lodging providers with 40 or more rooms. It does not affect recreational vehicle parks or campgrounds.
ANIMALS HELP REHABILITATE YOUTHS
Alice Perry Linker, staff reporter
"Click."
The young woman presses a clicker and the dog sits, ready to receive a treat.
It's a hot, late-summer morning, and three teenagers are working patiently with their assigned animals at the Humane Society for Southwest Washington in Vancouver.
The three, Jordan, 17, Lia Zeppetella, 16, and Jami Martin, 15, are juvenile offenders given a chance to work with animals. Their probation officers told them about the Humane Society program, specifically designed for troubled teenagers.
The program, Project Click, is a pilot project, a cooperative effort of the Humane Society and Clark County's juvenile corrections department.
Every day for three weeks, the teenagers must show up by 10 a.m. and spend the next four hours working with dogs and cats, getting the animals ready for adoption.
"I like it a lot," Lia said. "I love animals. Some of the things I learn here I use at home with our animals."
Keri Caporale, the Humane Society's education coordinator, said the pilot project is sponsored by First Independent Bank. Caporale hopes the project will continue in years to come.
Jesse Hadley, community mentor with juvenile corrections, said he's impressed with the work done by the three.
"They're awesome," he said. "They're doing more than was expected."
Jordan, 17, is working with a young Labrador retriever named Paris, who was unfriendly, skittish and hostile to men when she first came.
After one week of work, Paris has calmed down, she doesn't nip as much and she's beginning to obey simple commands offered by the only male in the group of three.
Each time Paris obeys, Jordan presses the clicker and gives the puppy a treat.
"We worked with her last week," he said. "She's improved a lot."
Lia's charge, a young golden retriever named Farrah, has bonded tightly with her handler, staying close to Lia and happily greeting the young woman each morning.
Lia, Jami Martin and Jordan were among 13 young offenders to fill out applications provided by their probation officers, Caporale said.
"The juvenile department narrowed the field to five, but two dropped out," Caporale said.
Hadley and Caporale consider the program a success.
"It gives them something to do in the summer," Hadley said. "They seem to like it. They're here early every day."
"They are very trustworthy," Caporale said.
The youth's training will include a trip to the zoo where they will see how training methods they use with dogs are applied to training sea lions.
During their three weeks, the group will also learn how to fill out forms and do paperwork necessary for adoption. They will take the animals to community parks where people can watch them go through their paces.
Caporale hopes the program will continue and grow with the coming years.
Project Click has generated a positive for the Humane Society. At least one of the teenagers, Lia, plans to continue as a volunteer.
JUNIOR SYMPHONY FACES UNCERTAIN FUTURE
By Alice Perry Linker
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 young performers will end its successful five-year run unless money is found for annual support.
Victoria Racz, who with her husband, Timoteus, founded the symphony in 1999, said the orchestra will have a December performance, as originally planned. But that might be their final performance.
Auditions will take place Thurs., Sept. 9. Interested youths may phone Victoria Racz at 696-4084 for an application.
"Limoges Investment Management has paid for the venue for the December performance," Victoria Racz said. "So we decided to go ahead."
Since 1999, the Raczes have worked without 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 donating.
"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 since the orchestra's inception. Both work with student musicians.
Varga said the Raczs 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 annually 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, said Varga.
Entering performers pay $125 and returning performers pay $75 for a season of three concerts. There are a few scholarships.
Varga and Victoria Racz believe it is important for Vancouver to have a youth 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."
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], playing to an audience."
Battle Ground's Shelly Williams 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," Williams said.
"I'd love to see the community take a real interest in what Victoria and Tim have done," she added. "We need individuals and businesses to step up to the plate."
Williams has been looking at the possiblity of foundation money, but said, "there's not much in grants now."
About $3,100 was raised through a concert and silent auction organized in June by Victoria Racz. Limoges Investment Management has donated $500 to sponsor a concert.
Wild Oats natural foods grocery store has sponsored two barbecues to benefit the orchestra, and church choirs have donated money, Victoria Racz said.
For information about the junior symphony and fund-raising efforts, call Victoria Racz at 696-4084, ext. 5, or Marlene Varga at 571-5990.
MAGNANO PLANS MOVE TO OREGON
Former Clark County commissioner John Magnano has announced plans to leave his position as executive director of Columbia River Mental Health Services and move to Tillamook County, Oregon.
Magnano, 54, said he and his wife, Alice, plan to travel around the United States for 2-3 months before making the move to Oregon and seeking other employment.
The Magnanos have sold their Vancouver home.
Magnano cited the deaths of young co-workers as impetus for him to take a broader view of life and make a change in his career.
Magnano served nearly two terms as Clark County commissioner, 1988-1996, leaving office before the end of his second term.
In the 1970s, Magnano worked in his family's food business in Seattle, a company that imported specialty foods from Europe.
Begun in 1903 by Magnano's grandfather, Antonio Magnano, the company specialized in importing olive oil and other foods.
After earning a master's degree in social work from San Jose State University in California, Magnano worked for Elahan Center for Mental Health and Family Living in Vancouver 1978-1988.
Magnano was reflective about his years as county commissioner, recognizing the controversy over growth management decisions. Growth management plans, said Magnano, affected the "home, heart, property, beliefs, and future earnings" of rural residents.
For one year after being a Clark County commissioner, Magnano studied high speed rail issues as an employee of the state Department of Transportation. He then worked in real estate.
After serving in advisory capacities for mental health programs in Clark County, Magnano became associate director of the renamed Columbia River Mental Health Services in 1998, and was named executive director in 2001.
Magnano said he and his wife enjoy taking walks with their two dogs. They also enjoy reading. Alice will end her 26 years of employment with child protective services.
The couple's vacation will include stops in California, Texas, and the east coast, including visits to Civil War battlefields, the JFK memorial, and presidential libraries.
Magnano said he will seek employment in the Tillamook area, possibly rejoining his family food business.
The Magnanos have four children, son Angelo Magnano, 25, and daughters Maggie Magnano, 26, and Julia Magnano, 24, both of California, and Olivia Magnano, 18, who will begin studies at the University of Washington this fall.
"SEND YOURSELF TO CONGRESS," SAYS CROWSON
"I'm just like everybody else," said Tom Crowson, candidate for the U.S. Congress from Washington's Third District. "So it's just like my wife says. Vote for me and send yourself to Congress."
Crowson, 52, is a Republican from Olympia who has filed for office against 3-term incumbent U.S. Rep. Brian Baird (D-Vancouver).
Crowson, a retired firefighter, said he would be guided by his core principles if elected to Congress.
Crowson listed the war on terror as a top priority.
"I support the president 100 percent," said Crowson. "He's done the rights things so far. Going into Iraq saved a lot of American lives."
"We absolutely must win" the war on terror," said Crowson who said he supports more spending on defense.
Crowson characterized Baird as a "tax and spend guy."
"He does a lot of town hall meetings," said Crowson of Baird. "I don't get answers from Baird" (about his stance on issues).
"Linda Smith is the reason I got into politics," said Crowson. "In 1994, she poked me in the chest and said I must get involved."
So he did.
Crowson worked the phones for Smith, who was first elected to the Congress in 1994. Crowson also waved signs for Smith.
Crowson said cutting taxes actually provides more money for government. He said the period of unparalleled growth in the United States occur during periods of lower taxes.
Crowson said he favors a flat income tax system, but wants to study the issue further. He classified himself as pro-life.
"I want to shine the spotlight on Baird's voting record," said Crowson, "and on who is contributors are."
Crowson said Baird has received money from the Sierra Club, abortion rights groups, and groups that support gay marriage, all position he opposes.
Crowson said he and his wife, Tootie, are members of the Episcopal Church, but are looking around at other churches because of approvals by the Episcopal Church of a gay bishop and gay marriage.
"I'm grounded in reality," said Crowson. "I know the price of a gallon of gas and a gallon of milk."
Crowson served as a firefighter in California before injuring a knee and retiring. He moved to Washington in 1992.
The Crowsons have two children, daughter Alicia, 26, and son Will, 20.
OBITS:
DONALD ANRYS
Donald C. Anrys, 61, died of cancer Aug. 11, 2004, at home in Woodland.
Anrys was born May 6, 1943 in Woodland, worked as a timber buyer for R.S.G. Forest Products for 20 years, and lived in Clark County his entire life.
Anrys was a member of the Elks. He enjoyed classic cars and clam digging.
Survivors include widow Mary Anrys of Woodland, son Steven Anrys of Woodland, daughters Kathy Morrison of La Center and Ronni Anrys-Herz of Woodland, sister Susan Greene of Vancouver, and two grandchildren.
A celebration of life will be held Sat., Aug. 28, 10 a.m.-1 p.m., at Lewis River Golf Course, Woodland, with Memorial Gardens Funeral Chapel, Vancouver, in charge of arrangements.
MELBA HARTER
Melba Edith Harter, 84, died Aug. 12, 2004 in Vancouver.
Harter was born Aug. 24, 1919 in Battle Ground and graduated as valedictorian from Battle Ground High School in 1937.
Harter played the piano in the Foursquare Gospel Church at age 14 and played there for 40 years. She attended business college in Vancouver. Music, family and church were vital parts of her life. She was a member of the First Church of God where she was active in the Joy fellowship.
Harter enjoyed traveling, especially to Hawaii where she visited 30 times. She helped re-build a church in Lapawai, ID. She also traveled to Jamaica and Mexico to work on church projects.
Survivors include widower Don Harter, at home, daughters Marlene Grentzer of Virginia, Patricia Martinson of Vancouver, and Colleen McGary of Grapeview, son Rodney Harter of Florida, sister Norma Haney of Battle Ground, nine grandchildren and one great-grandchild.
Memorial services will be held Wed., Aug. 18, 1 p.m., at First Church of God, 3300 NE 78th St., Vancouver, with burial at Memory Memorial in Vancouver. The Vancouver Funeral Chapel is in charge of arrangements.
MATTHEW MCGRATH
Matthew Scott McGrath, 15, was accidentally shot and killed Aug. 5, 2004, while visiting friends in Alaska.
McGrath was born Oct. 11, 1988 in Vancouver, was a student at Skyview High School, and worked as a janitor at Paul's Janitorial Service in Dillingham, Alaska. He lived in Vancouver most of his life.
McGrath enjoyed music. He played the drums and piano, danced and sang. His favorite song was "You've Lost That Lovin' Feeling." He was an active member of the Minnehaha Church Youth Group, Boy Scouts and Campfire Boys and Girls.
Survivors include parents Cynthia and Matt Shively of Vancouver and Marc and Audrey McGrath of Vancouver, sister Ashley Shively of Vancouver, grandparents Paul and Bonnie Peck of Ridgefield and Barb and Ritchie Jameson of Georgia, uncles Paul Peck of Alaska, Dan Peck of Arizona and Sean McGrath of Kennewick, and many friends.
Burial will take place at Evergreen Memorial Gardens Cemetery, Vancouver, with Memorial Gardens Funeral Chapel in charge of arrangements.
ADELIA ZIMMERMAN
Adelia "Cindy" B. (Harley) Zimmerman, 86, died Aug. 12, 2004 in Battle Ground.
Zimmerman was born March 27, 1918 in Nebraska, worked as a secretary in motor home sales and also as a school teacher, and lived in Clark County for five years, and in Battle Ground for seven months.
Zimmerman enjoyed playing the piano, singing, and was very musical. She also enjoyed exercise which included walking and ballroom dancing.
Zimmerman was preceded in death by her husband, Clifford Zimmerman, in 1994. Survivors include sons Vaughn McNamee of Vancouver and Ronald McNamee of California, sister Alverna Kritz of Texas, eight grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren.
No services are planned, with Layne's Funeral Home, Battle Ground, in charge of arrangements.
ROBERT DIXON
Robert C. Dixon IV, 76, died Aug. 10, 2004 at Southwest Washington Medical Center.
Dixon was born Oct. 11, 1927 in Chicago, IL. He lived in Vancouver 30 years and worked for the Battle Ground Public Works Department until his retirement in 2001.
Family members say Dixon had a wonderful sense of humor and enjoyed racing cars, flying airplanes and scuba diving. He also served in the U.S. Navy.
Dixon was preceded in death by a brother, Lester A. Dixon in 2002.
Dixon is survived by his wife, Mary Lou Dixon, at home, sons Ronnie Tassen of New Orleans, LA and Robert C. the Fifth of Battle Ground, daughters Deborah Freeman, Tina Dixon and Terrina Dixon all of Vancouver, brothers Frederick Dixon of Mariposa, CA and Clifford Dixon of Louisville, KY, sisters Barbara Hudson of Chicago, IL and Rosalie Llasua of Huntington Beach, CA, 17 grandchildren and nine great-grandchildren.
A memorial service was held Aug. 15 at Cascade Park Church of the Nazarene in Vancouver, with private inurement at Evergreen Memorial Gardens Cemetery.
ELISE BRINSON
Elise Kimberly Brinson, 39, died Aug. 11, 2004 at Southwest Washington Medical Center.
Brinson was born March 23, 1965 in Omaha, NE and lived in Vancouver for 23 years.
Brinson was a 1984 Prairie High School graduate, and attended Clark College and Central Washington University. She enjoyed watching movies, surfing the Internet, beading and making jewelry.
Brinson was preceded in death by her mother, JoAnn Brinson in 2002. She is survived by her father, Parker Brinson of Brush Prairie and a brother, Neil Brinson of Vancouver.
A memorial service was held Aug. 15 at Memorial Gardens Funeral Chapel with private inurement in Evergreen Memorial Gardens Cemetery. memorial donations may be made to the Juvenile Diabetes Foundation, 1409 140th Place NE, Bellevue, WA 98007.