LARCH ESCAPEE STILL ON THE LOOSE

Brent D. Luyster, a white male, escaped from Larch Corrections Center near Yacolt Dec. 20 and remains out of custody.

Luyster, 45, is described as 6-ft. tall, 190 pounds, medium build, brown eyes, short brown mustache and medium complexion.

Larch officials said Luyster was last seen about 11:30 a.m. Dec. 20 wearing khaki pants and jacket, red shirt and work boots. He was on a work crew inside the fence. His method of escape remains under investigation but a Larch spokesperson said it appears he cut the fence and removed bolts.

Luyster has a tattoo of a dragon and "white" on upper left arm, and "pride" on upper right arm. He was incarcerated for forgery, possession of stolen property, and identify theft. He is considered non-violent.

Luyster was slated for release in May 2010 and could have been eligible for early release in October 2008.

Larch spokesman Sgt. Miller said crews continue to search for Luyster who is believed to be in the vicinity of the Corrections Center.

Anyone with information is urged to call Larch officials, 260-6300, ext. 300, or call 911.

GROWTH PLAN PASSES IN RIDGEFIELD

Alice Perry Linker, staff reporter

The Ridgefield Comprehensive Growth Plan passed smoothly with nods Dec. 16 by city council members.

No one commented on the plan or any aspect of it, which has been more than four years in the making.

Mayor Gladys Doriot said she is not surprised by the lack of comment.

"That's what the planning commission does," she said. "The planning commission holds a public hearing and tries to answer any questions. By the time it gets to us, the planning commission has already heard it."

Kevin Snyder, Ridgefield Community Development Department director, was not surprised either.

Snyder said that in the four-and-one-half years since the plan was introduced, about 75 public meetings, information sessions and workshops were held.

Most recently, the city's plan was supported by Clark County commissioners, who approved adding about 600 acres to the city's urban growth area.

The County's overall plan, however, is being appealed by several individuals and municipalities, including Battle Ground.

One appellant is Ridgefield citizen James Walker, who asked to have his property included in the urban growth area earlier this year, making the land eligible for city annexation.

The Walker farm is across NE 10th Ave. from the city's urban growth boundary.

Ridgefield officials did not ask County officials to include the Walker farm in the urban growth area.

The Clark County Hearings Board is expected to set a date for hearing appeals in January after two new commissioners are sworn into office.

A decision on the appeals must be made within six months, said County prosecuting attorney Rich Lowry, although the deadline can be extended.

FLU VACCINE AVAILABLE FOR MORE PEOPLE

Alice Perry Linker, staff reporter

People between the ages of 50 and 64 are now eligible to receive the flu vaccine.

The Clark County Health Department expanded eligibility requirements after learning that Clark County health care providers have vaccine.

"We don't want any flu vaccine to go to waste," said Marnie Storey, manager of epidemiology and clinical services at the Health Department.

Dr. Justin Denny, County health officer, said, "This holiday season is the perfect time to get a flu shot, if you haven't received one already and if you are in one of the prioritized groups."

In addition to lowering the age requirement, County health officials expanded eligibility to include those who live or spend time with people at high risk. Children ages 2-18 who are in contact with the high-risk population are also eligible.

"Peak flu season is usually in February and it only takes two weeks for the flu shot to be effective," Denny said.

Storey suggested that people call their health care providers for information about availability and cost of the vaccine.

"Our health providers are saying they have vaccinated the high risk population, or those people are not coming in for the vaccine," Storey said.

Albertsons Pharmacy at Padden Parkway and NE 137th Ave., and Safeway Pharmacy at the corner of NE 117th Ave. and NE 76th St., have the vaccine. Both pharmacies suggest people call ahead of visiting the stores.

"It seems that most of the vaccine is at the pharmacies," Storey said.

People younger than 50 might consider the flu mist, she said. The mist is a live, weakened flu virus administered a nasal spray.

"This option is now available for most healthy children and adults ages 5 to 49," Denny said.

LONGTIME RIDGEFIELD CLERK TO RETIRE

Alice Perry Linker, staff reporter

Barbara Charbonneau will begin a new chapter in her life with the beginning of a new year.

Charbonneau, deputy city clerk for Ridgefield, will retire Jan. 31 after 15 years as a city employee.

"I've enjoyed working for the city," she said. "I've very much enjoyed the people here. We've gone through so many changes, but I think we're on the right road now--growing and improving."

As the next chapter opens, Charbonneau plans to continue some old interests and pursue new ones.

A potter who has been studying art for some time, Charbonneau hopes to expand her art studies.

"I may take a drawing class," she said.

Volunteering is something she'd like to do, but she hasn't decided exactly what direction that interest will take.

"I'm interested in the environment," she said.

Charbonneau grew up in Vancouver and lived in Battle Ground for 10 years before moving to Ridgefield. She plans to stay in her downtown Ridgefield home.

Before moving to Battle Ground, Charbonneau lived for 20 years in San Francisco, where she owned a gift shop.

"I loved San Francisco," she said, adding that she also loves downtown Vancouver.

Charbonneau has a grown son, Sebastian, who has recently returned to Ridgefield after three years in Brazil.

RIDGEFIELD CITY WELCOMES NEWCOMER

Alice Perry Linker, staff reporter

The city of Ridgefield's newest employee was most recently involved in a cleaning project.

Tara Erickson, who was hired to fill a new city position as controller, was the project supervisor for the Port of Ridgefield's ground water remediation effort at the edge of the Ridgefield National Wildlife Refuge.

"I was offered this opportunity and I was excited about the challenge," Erickson said about her new job.

In a reorganization of city hall staff, Erickson is the controller, which is a management position that includes accounting and handling a payroll of 35 employees.

Erickson did a similar job for the Port.

Erickson's immediate challenge with the city involves bringing on a new accounting system with new computer software. She expects to complete the change from DOS to a Windows system sometime in January.

A Vancouver resident, Erickson is a single mom with two children: Holly, 12, and Dayton, 5. She was born and raised in Clackamas, OR, but graduated from Columbia River High School in Vancouver.

Erickson is a student at the University of Phoenix and has about a year's study remaining before earning a degree in business management.

In her rare free moments, Erickson enjoys camping and rafting. She especially enjoys life in the Pacific Northwest.

"We have the best of all the worlds here," she said.

DOWNED TREE DRAPES CEDAR CREEK

Bill Myers, staff reporter

Strong wind gusts Dec. 12 uprooted a 150-foot tall Douglas fir tree on Fire District 10 property next to Cedar Creek in Amboy.

The tree, with a 46-inch trunk and up-turned root ball about 20 feet high, fell across the creek. The top portion of the tree nicked the side of a residence and blocked a driveway.

Most of the fallen tree is on District 10 property purchased more than 20 years ago when firefighters were allowed to fill tankers from streams.

Firefighters cut away a portion of the tree to provide access to the blocked driveway. They chose not to attempt to remove the tree from the creek.

District 10 fire chief Sam Arola, apprehensive about disturbing an environmentally- sensitive and seasonally-active salmon stream, directed captain Gordon Brooks to contact the state Department of Fish and Wildlife.

Brooks said Fish and Wildlife biologist Lisa Renan suggested Clark County Public Works or Clark Public Utilities could help with removal. Both agencies have proper equipment and occasionally need woody debris for fish habitat improvements.

Brooks said a permit, which could be verbal, is required from the state agency to remove the tree.

"We need to make sure we do the right thing," said Brooks.

Attempting to remove the tree without proper equipment could expose the Fire District to a fine and/or mitigation costs, he said.

Equipment with treads and a crane large enough to lift the tree away from the creek are needed to remove it without damaging the stream, said Brooks.

Having a private logger remove the tree was considered. The tree has a log value of about $600, said Brooks, and added that costs of removal and transport wouldn't make it a profitable venture.

Brooks is currently attempting to arrange removal by the County Public Works department.

STUART TAKES COMMISSIONER'S OATH

Bill Myers, staff reporter

Vancouver resident and environmental activist Steve Stuart was sworn in Dec. 21 as a Clark County commissioner.

Superior court judge Robert Harris administered the oath of office to Stuart in front of about 100 well-wishers at the Public Service Center in Vancouver.

Stuart, a 33-year-old Democrat, was appointed by Clark County commissioners Betty Sue Morris and Judie Stanton to replace Craig Pridemore. Pridemore resigned his commissioner post effective Dec. 20 after being elected in November as a state senator for the 49th District.

Stuart plans to run for election to the commissioner's post in November 2005 as required by the state constitution.

A 1989 Prairie High School graduate, Stuart completed bachelor studies with praise at Linfield College in 1994. He earned a master's degree in environmental law at Vermont Law School, a master of science degree in regional and community development from the University of Oregon, and a law degree from the University of Oregon School of Law in 2000.

Stuart was state policy director for 1,000 Friends of Washington from 1999 to 2002, and executive director for Friends of Clark County from 2002 to October 2004. He founded Urban Reserve, an organization focused on protecting and upgrading wetland habitats in Clark County, in October 2004.

"I'm delighted with our choice," said Morris. "You will bring new eyes, vigor, excitement and fun to our board."

Stuart thanked the commissioners and Democratic Central Committee sponsors for having faith in him.

"It's a big job, and I'm excited about getting started," he said.

BOOKMAKING PROBE CONTINUES

Bill Myers, staff reporter

Clark County prosecutors continue to gather evidence related to the Dec. 8 arrests of five adults on illegal gambling charges.

The arrests followed an investigation into alleged bookmaking on sports events at La Center casinos New Phoenix and Last Frontier, and other areas around the county.

Casino managers did not authorize alleged illegal activities and are cooperating in the investigation, said state gambling commission spokesman Neal Nunamaker.

All arrested were released Dec. 9 pending reviews of evidence and completion of probable cause documents.

Decisions about charges have not been made, said Clark County deputy prosecutor Mike Kinnie. He said evidence is still being gathered and reviewed.

An investigation by state agents assisted by Clark County Sheriff's deputies and Vancouver police included searches of Vancouver residences and the seizure of records and cash, said Nunamaker.

Agents also conducted interviews of employees and patrons at the casinos, Nunamaker said.

BG COULD SEE MOTEL BY SUMMER

Heidi Wallenborn, news director

"A town the size of Battle Ground deserves a motel," said Mike Heston, owner of Development Consulting.

Heston is overseeing construction of a $2.5 million motel/restaurant/retail center at W Main St. and NW 15th Ave. in Battle Ground.

Earth is being moved and a pad being made ready on the narrow, 5-acre site for a three-story, 34,000 square-foot building in phase one of the Battle Ground Motel and Restaurant Site project.

Although the name is simple--Battle Ground Motel--another motel chain will run it, Heston said. A company has not committed yet, but "it will be a major-branded motel."

The same is true for the restaurant, Heston said, adding that it will be "family-style."

The lower floor of the motel will be the restaurant with a retail area in about 12,000 square feet, Heston said.

The two top floors total 22,000 square feet and will house 25 units on each, he said.

Actual construction will begin in February or March with completion expected in summer 2005.

Phase two has no start date as yet, Heston said, but it will consist of another restaurant or retail store in a 3,000 square foot building south of the motel.

Specific construction projects for phases three and four have not been decided yet, Heston said, but one idea is for an exhibition hall and conference center.

Market studies showed Heston the time is right for this kind of development on the west side of the city, he said.

In 2001, the population was 10,040. The end-of-year forecast for the city's 2004 population is 14,394, according to information from the city's Community Development Department based on building permits.

Heston refers to the west end of Battle Ground as urban, a busy residential area with non-specific retail space.

Gardner Center is farther away from these newer residences, and Heston plans to develop incentives to shop on that side of town, he said.

"There is an identifiable void in hospitality features in that area," he said. "Battle Ground is of a size now where it needs a motel. There are sporting and regional events going on and no place for people to stay. They have to go to Salmon Creek, which is inconvenient."

Although the project is moving along, the motel should have been finished and open in summer 2003, Heston said.

A five-year delay in getting permits from the Army Corps of Engineers, state Department of Ecology, state Department of Fish and Wildlife and city of Battle Ground brought the project to a standstill until late 2004, he said.

All in all, things worked out well, Heston said. He originally planned for the motel to open along with the re-opening of W Main St. more than one and one-half years ago.

"That project made Battle Ground an even nicer looking community," he said. "It was important, and brought the city into the next millennium."

City council member Bill Ganley said Heston's project will be "great for the community" and is long-needed.

"Besides giving people a place to stay when they come for weddings and holidays with families, this is another tool to bring in economic development," said Ganley.

THREE-LEGGED CAT IS IMPROVING AT NEW HOME

Heidi Wallenborn, news director

Pumpkin's fur is no longer matted and oily. His paw no longer drags at the end of a paralyzed forearm. He no longer looks like a furry bag of bones.

The kitten faces a camera unafraid. His black and white coat is glossy and thick, and he has put on some weight. He sits solidly planted, his remaining front paw firmly on the floor in the center of his body for perfect balance to make up for his missing right arm.

In early November, 9-year-old Alisha McClean put out a call for help to save Pumpkin's life by raising money for an amputation of his paralyzed forearm.

The stray cat had wandered into a pumpkin patch behind the youth's Hockinson area home, nearly dead from starving.

Pumpkin wasn't able to catch mice and birds to survive as other feral cats do.

A veterinarian declared Pumpkin healthy other than having to be treated for worms and fleas, but said the arm needed to be amputated or the kitten put to sleep.

The family could not keep the kitten, so McClean went to work looking for someone who would adopt a three-legged cat. She began fundraising and appealed to the public via posters and this newspaper.

About $700 was raised for the estimated $300 surgery. But Pumpkin needed more de-worming before surgery, so the total bill came to about $400, said Tracie McClean, Alisha's mother.

The remaining money was split up: $200 went to the non-profit group People United for Animals who helped the family get Pumpkin checked and find a veterinarian, $55 went to Furry Friends and $55 was sent to Second Chance Companions--both pet adoption organizations.

Pumpkin is recovering with his new "mom," McClean said, and is doing "wonderful."

A "typical toddler," she said, the kitten is into everything, on everything and playing with everything, including the Christmas tree.

McClean was touched by the community's response to help Pumpkin.

"There were many wonderful people who sent notes of encouragement and helped financially," she said. "We want to express gratitude for all the people who helped save him."

RAILROAD SIGNS 30-YEAR LEASE WITH COUNTY

"Good faith" provision for volunteer group

Heidi Wallenborn, news director

As of Dec. 20, Lewis and Clark Railroad is no more.

Columbia Basin Railroad (CBRW) officials signed a 30-year lease contract with Clark County officials for the entire 33-mile short line track that runs from Vancouver to Chelatchie Prairie. The railroad company is based in central Washington.

The name of the new railroad has not been decided, said Steve Schulte, County railroad coordinator.

A 10-year contract with Lewis and Clark Railway Company (LINC), owned by Ed Bernsten, was not renewed, and expired Jan. 31, 2004.

That contract also provided for the all-volunteer, non-profit railroad group--Battle Ground, Yacolt, Chelatchie Prairie (BYCX)--to operate seasonal excursions and repairs on the north line from Battle Ground to Chelatchie Prairie.

The volunteer group also had their own lease with the same agreement with the County, which also expired at the end of January 2004.

In December 2003, BYCX president Linc Reed-Nickerson tried to assert that his group had a first right of renewal for using the north line for passenger excursion, steam locomotive and related operations.

At that time, he planned to exercise that right of renewal and extend the lease another five years.

However, this new contract with CBRW only makes a provision for the two groups to work in good faith, and does not guarantee BYCX a lease.

Neither Reed-Nickerson nor his wife, Joan Reed-Nickerson, who is current president, could be reached for comment.

When asked about that provision, Schulte said, "We did not reach an agreement on that issue. We challenged that and from our legal viewpoint, they didn't have a right of renewal."

"We tried to find something that worked," he said. "But it was critically important for Columbia Basin to have complete control of the line, considering their investment with capitol, facilities, equipment, running freight and eventually a dinner train."

"They needed that reassurance," Schulte added. "A three-way agreement wouldn't have worked, in part due to potential schedule conflicts."

No financial or business risks for County

With the new lease, CBRW is responsible for track maintenance and upgrades, paying all taxes and fees, providing locomotives, freight and passenger cars, and staff to operate trains.

Track repairs alone could run $6-$9 million, officials said.

"In other words," Schulte said, "Clark County will not be taking any financial or business risks with the railroad, and there will be no additional costs above current expenditures."

The County will continue to take care of bridge repairs, test crossing signals, keep rights of way and ditches clear, and spray weeds.

At the end of the lease, any improvements made by CBRW become County property.

The railroad company will not pay rent to the County until the line becomes profitable--at about 1,000 cars annually. The rent will be based on the number of freight carloads and dinner train passengers--about $10-$30 per car, and 75 cents to $1.50 per passenger, depending on volume.

Under the old leasee, only about 100 cars ran between Vancouver and Battle Ground per year.

Terri Tweedell, a member of the Clark County Railroad Advisory Board and executive director of the Battle Ground Chamber of Commerce, said she is "extremely pleased" with the contract.

"It takes the County out of risk mode and puts it on Columbia Basin Railroad," she said. "For Battle Ground, there is great economic development potential, but a lot depends on whether the train will stop here or not."

"I think the city and Chamber will work to try to make Old Town a place of destination, not just a go through," Tweedell added. "But even going through the community, maybe there will be an enticement to come back."

Bill Ganley, city council member and also an advisory board member, agreed.

"Hopefully, people coming through will see Battle Ground and want to make a trip back out," he said.

Ganley also believes the lease for the entire 33-mile line rather than just the southern portion as the previous lease allowed is wise.

"It's an opportunity for north county, especially with a destination location at the end of the line once a dinner train is in," he said. "I'd love to see a resort or a winery at the end of the line [as the owner has mentioned]."

Ganley also believes the provision for the two railroad groups to work toward an agreement "is the best way to save the line for them."

Tweedell was optimistic as well.

"I feel confident that the railroad will work with the BYCX group and reach an agreement that is beneficial to both the railroad and our tourism," she said.

Schulte said he hopes the two groups can reach an agreement and a sublease from CBRW to BYCX is made.

"There is concern on Columbia Basin's part about safety, reliability and responsibility as the cornerstone for the business," Schulte said. "I hope the two can find common ground. But it's up to them to work together. The key issue is to work through."

More provisions

The 30-year lease also obligates CBRW to allow the county other right-of-way uses, such as trail systems.

In addition, if government entities in the area promote light rail transit service, the use of the railroad will be negotiated.

The County reserves the right to terminate the lease for breach of contract. CBRW can end the lease at any time within 12 months.

"We're getting a good railroad company that specializes in short line," Ganley said. "If they can't operate this and make it work, nobody can."

BG RALLIES FOR LESS FORTUNATE

Heidi Wallenborn, news director

When bananas go on sale in May, John Idsinga's thoughts turn toward Christmas.

Idsinga, mayor of Battle Ground, is also coordinator for the city's annual Christmas Box program.

Frozen turkeys, stuffing mix, potatoes, apples, cheese, brown sugar, butter, 60-65 cans of food and more go in each sturdy banana box and are handed out the week before Christmas to area families who struggle financially.

Banana sales in area grocery stores mean Idsinga can cart about 30 boxes a day until he has reached his goal of 700, which he stores in a rented unit until December.

Volunteers responsible for success

This year, 223 families received one or two boxes on Dec. 18, depending on how many children they have. Enough food boxes for 260 families were prepared.

Elaine Hertz, North County Community Food Bank executive director, said the rest were given to families who were on a waiting list.

The big push to get the boxes ready was a week-long effort, Idsinga said.

The Monday before, about 30 volunteers picked goods up from every school in the Battle Ground School District and businesses who held food drives.

After goods were delivered at the Battle Ground Chamber of Commerce building, volunteers sorted each item into categories. On Tuesday, boxes were filled, and on Wednesday, perishable items were picked up.

People started lining up that Saturday morning before the sun rose, Idsinga said, and the volunteers were ready.

"All the volunteers were excited to be helping," he said. "There were some new people, and there were people there who have been doing this longer than I have."

Monetary donations fueled the drive as well. Riverview Community Bank raised more than $5,000, Battle Ground High School teachers raised $490; 40 et 8 gave $1,000; Battle Ground Lions gave $500; Mr. and Mrs. D. Janigan gave $1,500; Anne Case and The Reflector $250; County Stihl and Silver Star Lodge each gave $250; Mel Mason and Mary Wolff, Sue Tegthoff, Nancy Stenshoel, the Fraternal Order of Eagles, Jerry and Sandra Barnes, and folks from the Senior Citizen Center each gave $100, and Costco gave $50.

Money isn't everything. Others who donated time and equipment were: Battle Ground School District with a truck and driver; Battle Ground Mini-Storage lent a U-Haul truck; Cedar Mill Nursery lent a truck; Anderson Dairy lent a storage trailer; Rocky's Pizza provided lunch on Monday when volunteers picked up donations; several grocery stores gave Idsinga those coveted banana boxes, and the Chamber of Commerce let the volunteers use the building for the week.

Groups of volunteers put in more than 300 hours during that week of preparation, Idsinga said, including Battle Ground High School ROTC, Future Farmers of America, Honor Society and Fire Cadets; all students who competed in every school for food drives, and District 11 and Battle Ground firefighters who donated time.

"Helping in something like this gives people perspective in life," Idsinga said. "It's great to help, and if it's ever needed, it's great to know it's there for you, too."

"I give thanks to the community," he added. "I say this every year--it's just amazing how everything comes together."

DISTRICT WANTS TWO-PART BOND IN MARCH

Marcus Brotherton, staff reporter

Battle Ground School District voters will determine the fate of a two-part bond proposal in a March 8 special election.

The bonds are designed to alleviate overcrowding in the third largest school district in southwest Washington.

Part A is for a $63 million package of construction and renovation projects similar to a $54.9 million proposal that narrowly failed last May.

State matching funds would contribute $36.7 million toward part A for total project costs of about $99.6 million.

Part B asks area voters for $19.5 million to build a high school in the north Clark County end of the District.

State funds would contribute about $11.6 million more to part B for a total estimated project cost of $31.1 million. Part B can pass only if Part A passes.

How the package was decided

In a four-hour meeting Dec. 20, school board members used information developed from a citizens' committee to craft a final proposal that will be sent to voters. The committee met several times this fall.

Board members grouped committee recommendations into three package options: offer one proposal similar to the defeated May 2004 plan; offer a two-part proposal with one part similar to last time and another part to build a north county high school; or put all new school construction projects on one bond and all renovation and improvement projects on a second bond.

Just before choosing one option, board chairman Sam Kim characterized all three as viable.

"I'm okay with any of these," Kim said. "The question is, which will pass?"

Board members noted the risky nature of two-part bonds, despite choosing to go that direction.

Two-part bonds historically failed in the majority of bond elections in the state for the past 10 years.

Battle Ground voters, however, approved both halves of a split bond in 1993, which was the last bond approved

in Battle Ground. Both halves of a different split bond in Battle Ground failed in 1997.

Elsewhere in the county, La Center voters turned down both halves of a split bond in May 2002, but approved one half of a similar split bond four months later.

The north county question

Board members appeared to make decisions about which proposal to send to voters based on two sets of information.

One came from the majority of committee members who recommended proposing a bond similar to last May.

Committee member Sue Cranke, who was in the majority on the committee, described the May proposal as the fairest and wisest option.

"The last bond only failed by 2 percent," Cranke said. "It had something for everybody in each part of the District. There's nothing on it that the kids of this school district don't need."

The other recommendation came from two committee members who separated themselves from the majority and pushed for quicker construction of a north county high school.

The May proposal would have provided funds to purchase property in the Amboy/Yacolt area with a new high school built by 2012 when more state matching money is available.

But committee members Russ Wadleigh and Lou Maurina believe a north county high school can and should be built by 2006.

If the school was built somewhat smaller--108,000 square feet instead of 120,000 square feet as plans called for--it would qualify for full state matching funds today.

Wadleigh and Maurina also believe estimates on other parts of the proposal are too high.

The question of when to build a north county high school dominated discussion in the Dec. 20 meeting. Board members disagreed on the school being a priority.

Board members David Sontaag and Fred Striker ranked immediate construction of the high school as "5" on a scale of 0-5 with 5 being most pressing, while Karen Lehman and Mark Pelletier gave it a "3," and Kim, a "2."

Sonntag and Striker based their higher rankings, in part, on two District-wide surveys conducted this fall where between one-quarter and one-third of responses indicated support for a new north county high school.

Kim said he is not disturbed by Sonntag and Striker's ranking because they are representing their constituencies.

"We can ask for the moon," Kim said, "but the question is whether all voters in the District will agree to it."

Bond specifics examined

Enrollment counts show the District is currently overcrowded with more students expected, due to area housing tracts under construction.

The head count in October 2004 showed 12,487 students--about 2,000 more students than 10 years ago.

Estimates show the District will grow by about 1,600 students in the next five years.

The District currently has 114 portables located at 16 school campuses. School officials are uncertain whether any portables would be removed if the March bond passes.

If passed, part A of the bond would fund two new K-8 school campuses.

Each campus would contain two schools, one for grades K-4 and one for grades 5-8, with separate buildings, play areas and administration.

One campus would be located on the Cresap Property at NW 20th Ave. and NE 239th St. Another campus would be on one of three possible sites.

Occupancy of the first school is anticipated for September 2007 with students in the second school by September 2008.

Last May's proposal called for several older school buildings to be demolished, with new schools built on the same sites.

But community members voiced concerns about finding other uses for existing school buildings, even if they are older.

The new proposal shows different plans for several sites that were once planned for demolition.

On the new proposal, Captain Strong Elementary School would be expanded to make one elementary school in combination with neighboring Chief Umtuch Primary School. Much of Chief Umtuch would be demolished.

Chief Umtuch is currently a K-2 school and Captain Strong houses grades 3-5. The new Chief/Captain school would be reconfigured for grades K-4, with fifth grade students going to the new Lewisville Middle School.

Lewisville, which currently houses grades 6-8 (unlike other area middle schools which are 5-8), would be replaced by a new school building on the same site.

The plan last May called for Lewisville to be torn down, but under the new bond, Lewisville would stay and be used for other purposes. Possible uses include maintenance, community education, print shop and food service areas.

Laurin Middle School would see a new addition with more classrooms, parking lot space, a cafeteria and commons area.

The prior proposal called for the school to be torn down and rebuilt on the same site. The bond would also fund replacement of the lower building of Amboy Middle School, which was built in 1947. A new cafeteria and commons area would also be built.

Heating and cooling systems throughout the District would be upgraded and replaced as needed. Major projects would occur at Glenwood Heights Primary School and the Pleasant Valley campus.

Computer wiring and servers for new technology systems would be brought to each campus District-wide.

Prairie High School would see a new auditorium and track, and parts of its roof would be replaced.

Land for a new north county high school would be purchased. Site prep costs would be funded, which weren't included on the prior proposal. The Battle Ground High School cafeteria would be converted into a stage area. The prior proposal called for a new wing to be added to the school for a stage area.

On the prior bond list but not on the new one are upgrades to District stadium.

If passed, part B would fund construction of an 800 student high school on a site yet to be determined, likely close to Amboy.

What will it cost?

The overall price of part A of March's bond reflects a 7 percent increase in construction costs compared with the last bond proposal, said assistant superintendent Lynn Hicks.

If part A of the bond passes, voters will see the school portion of area property taxes rise from about 65 cents per $1,000 assessed value to about $1.30 per $1,000.

If Part B also passes, another 39 cents per $1,000 would be tacked on.

The total tax rate would be $1.62 per $1,000.

This means owners of a $200,000 house now paying $130 annually, or $10.83 monthly, would pay $260 annually, or $21.67 monthly, if part A passes.

If part B passes as well, the total tax would be $324 annually, or $27 monthly.

Valuation rates are calculated on a 20-year payback schedule, Hicks said.

Bond critics say even if new schools are needed, doubling taxes is too much.

Bond critics have said there must be other ways of raising money, such as raising impact fees--money developers pay when building new structures.

But bond supporters say the bond proposal is a good deal, and that there are several ways of looking at its funding.

Impact fees, while part of an overall funding mix, generate perhaps $2 million per year, far below what it takes to build new schools, say District officials.

Although the total amount of the new proposal is more than proposed last May--$63 million for part A compared with $54.9 million last May--the amount each individual would pay now is actually less than before because a greater population base has added more value to the District, officials said.

The prior proposal would have added about $1.33 per $1,000.

In addition, compared with every other school district in Clark County, Battle Ground voters have been getting a good deal for years, say bond supporters, and it's time to ante up.

Even if both parts of the new bond pass, Battle Ground taxpayers would still pay less than Hockinson, La Center, Vancouver, Camas, Washougal and Evergreen taxpayers, officials said.

RIDGEFIELD TO PREPARE FOR LEWIS AND CLARK HOOPLA

Alice Perry Linker, staff reporter

There it is on a new map of the Lewis and Clark trail: Ridgefield National Wildlife Refuge.

Ridgefield is shown with other historic places such as Fort Clatsop, OR, Lolo Pass on the Idaho/Montana border, Fort Mandan, ND, and Great Falls of the Missouri River in Montana.

But Vancouver is not shown on the map, which brought smiles to the faces of Ridgefield city council members and others when Arlene Johnson showed the map.

Johnson, project director for the Lewis and Clark Bicentennial Committee of Vancouver and Clark County, visited the council on Dec. 16 to discuss preparations for the bicentennial.

Two hundred years after the Corps of Discovery led by Meriwether Lewis and William Clark camped on the shores of Lake River, Ridgefield could be an important stop for history enthusiasts.

Johnson pointed out that not only is Ridgefield on the map of the historic 8,000-mile trip, it appears on the walls of a tent that illustrates the voyage. The tent will be in the greater Portland area from Nov. 28 until Dec. 11, 2005.

The Cathlapotle Plank House, under construction on the Ridgefield National Wildlife Refuge, will be ready for visitors next year, Johnson said. Carved posts are already in place.

After hearing Johnson's presentation, Ridgefield mayor Gladys Doriot directed interim city manager George Fox to create a committee to support the upcoming commemoration of the Corps of Discovery trip.

"The city needs to support this celebration," she said.

Allene Woedage, who has been involved with the Ridgefield Lewis and Clark committee, asked for the city's help in putting together a plan for the upcoming year.

The all-volunteer committee, working for more than a year, has built an information kiosk at the intersection of Pioneer St. and N Main Ave., next to a site designated as a future welcome center.

The committee has also provided special Lewis and Clark information sessions at various Ridgefield celebrations during the year.

"We need to be ready for visitors," she said. "This is our one opportunity to showcase Ridgefield for the Lewis and Clark Bicentennial."

WAL-MART SET FOR FOURTH PLAIN

Marcus Brotherton, staff reporter

The largest kind of Wal-Mart store offering everything from groceries to car care is coming to Orchards.

Wal-Mart representatives hope to break ground on the store, called a Wal-Mart Super-Center, in early spring. Representatives say about 10 months are needed to complete the structure.

The new Wal-Mart will sit on 23 acres of a 46-acre retail parcel located near NE 143rd Ave. on the south side of NE Fourth Plain Blvd.

Offering some 203,000 square feet of space, the Wal-Mart will be the largest retailer on the site, which will collectively be known as Eastgate Plaza.

Other stores will occupy some 236,000 square feet on remaining portions of the property, said Deborah Ewing, representative for Eric Fuller & Associates, the commercial real estate company tasked with leasing the store spaces.

Ewing said Wal-Mart had signed a lease, but other anchor stores for the plaza are still in flux, so are not yet named.

The site developer is Alexandria Investment Company of Bellevue.

Wal-Mart chose the site mostly due to the expansion and reconfiguration of SR-500, which funnels traffic more easily onto NE Fourth Plain Blvd., Ewing said.

"We believe this is the right place at the right time for Wal-Mart," Ewing said. "There are a lot of roof tops in this area of town. Wal-Mart works in our community. We are Wal-Mart shoppers."

A development agreement has been reached with Wal-Mart, said city of Vancouver senior planner Greg Turner.

The agreement requires the company to make improvements to NE Fourth Plain, NE 143rd Ave. and NE Ward Rd., while bonding to extend NE 147th Ave. to NE 59th St. and lengthening NE 59th St.--the east-west road that will connect NE 137th to NE 162nd avenues.

Wal-Mart spokesman Eric Berger said the store will create about 400 jobs, about 300 of which will be full-time.

The average wage at Wal-Mart for this region is $10.15 per hour, Berger added.

WOUNDED BG MARINE HOME FOR HOLIDAYS

Marcus Brotherton, staff reporter

On a chilly morning during holiday break, Justin DeMaranville warmed his right hand by a fireplace in his friend's Battle Ground home.

"It gets cold with all this metal in it," DeMaranville said.

DeMaranville, 19, is a twice-injured combat Marine now home in Clark County to recuperate.

The teen will fly back to Camp Pendleton, CA, on Jan. 6. His battalion is scheduled to return to Iraq in September. Whether DeMaranville will be with them is still questionable.

"It's great to have Justin home again," said Demaranville's sister, Carly. "There's a lot of people that really care about him here."

Doctors say it will take a full year for Demaranville's hand to heal. Even then, the hand may not be completely functional and DeMaranville may need to be reassigned.

"Nobody wants to go back to Iraq," DeMaranville said. "But I miss my platoon and want to be over there. I want to watch out for them."

Demaranville and his sister grew up in Battle Ground. Although he graduated from Heritage High School, he spent his freshman year at Battle Ground High and seventh and eighth grades at Lewisville Middle School. Carly graduated from Battle Ground in 2002.

Demaranville enlisted with the Marines in 2003 and was deployed to Iraq in June 2004. A lance corporal, he was trained as a "ground pounder"--a front line rifleman who takes care of business, say military officials.

The first five months in Iraq were fairly routine. Demaranville was stationed at a camp where his battalion made regular patrols and several community relations missions.

"We'd get attacked a couple of times a week," Demaranville said, "but it was nothing special. Everybody was thinking about Fallujah. We were told to be on our toes--to be ready to go. We just didn't know when."

Before the mission to Fallujah occurred, Demaranville was injured for the first time. He was hit in the leg with shrapnel when a car bomb exploded. He celebrated his 19th birthday in the hospital and was out of action for five weeks, then returned to duty.

About two months later, Fallujah was bombed by U.S. forces. Demaranville's battallion watched from a foxhole on the edge of the city. His mission was to enter Fallujah and clear districts--going door-to-door searching for insurgents and weapons caches. They found plenty of both, he said.

Demaranville's battalion spent six days in Fallujah while snipers rained shots down on them. Close to the end of the mission, other battalions were already handing out food and water, but his battalion was sent to the Queens district which was known as one of the most dangerous in the city.

The job in Queens began smoothly, Demaranville said. But in the last house on the last day of the mission, everything went horribly wrong.

The house they entered was larger than most--about six rooms on the bottom floor. Demaranville entered with three other Marines--a team leader, a machine-gunner and a squad leader from another unit. The men ranged in ages from 19 to 21.

Just inside, Demaranville remembered seeing a door to a room swing shut slowly, a sure sign they were not alone.

Then everything exploded.

The team leader was hit first, shot in the stomach and leg. Demaranville grabbed him and pulled him under a stairway while firing back. Insurgents shot the squad leader in the face.

Everything was smoke and dust and noise. Demaranville peered around the stairway, trying to get a better look at the enemy. That's when he got shot.

The bullet hit his trigger hand while he aimed his rifle. His hand was nearly ripped in two. The bullet bounced and hit his shoulder armor. Demaranville remembers yelling for support to come. Then a grenade exploded about 10 feet away. He felt shocked from the blast and couldn't hear well.

A second grenade was lobbed in. In an instant, Demaranville grabbed his fallen team leader and rolled behind an air conditioning unit. The grenade exploded, blowing the unit into the wall, keeping the two safe from the blast but pinning them in the process.

More Marines arrived and kicked in the front door. A squad leader grabbed DeMaranville and threw him outside where he was tossed onto a Humvee vehicle.

A field hospital had been set up about 30 minutes away. Five Marines had been injured in the fight. On the Humvee ride, Demaranville told others they'd be okay. He didn't want to ask for morphine because they were more injured than he was.

Demaranville's team leader and the machine gunner died. The latter had just gotten married.

From the hospital, DeMaranville was flown by helicopter back to his base, then to hospitals in Kuwait and Germany within about 10 days.

The bullet shattered two fingers and broke another while damaging nerves. A spreader was placed in his hand to let the fingers heal straight. A metal plate was inserted to hold the hand together. Bits of round were left in his hand and will always be there. Doctors say he will lose some movement and grip.

In Germany, Demaranville had some time to think before being flown back to the United States. He also ate at Burger King which he hadn't done in several months. When he enlisted, he packed 195 pounds on his 6'1" frame. He's now 35 pounds lighter.

Demaranville would like to finish his original four-year commitment to the military, then go to college. He hopes to become a teacher.

For now, he's working at getting better--eating a lot, playing computer games and hanging out with friends.

Demaranville's sister calls him a hero.

"I worry about my younger brother when he's over there fighting," Carly said. "It's awesome to have him back for the holidays."

WALLACE NAMED VICE-CHAIR OF TRANSPORTATION

State Rep. Deb Wallace (D-Vancouver) will serve as vice chair of the transportation committee in the state House of Representatives during the 2005 legislative session.

"I'm especially happy to be appointed vice chair of the transportation committee because there is a tremendous need to focus on I-5 and I-205 problems among other pressing questions of the state's transportation system," said Wallace.

Wallace will also serve on committees dealing with technology, energy and communications, economic development, agriculture and trade, and legislative audit and review.

The legislative audit and review committee works to make sure laws passed by the legislature are effective.

"These committees put me in a perfect position to address my priorities for the 17th District," said Wallace, "making sure we have good jobs and economic development, accountability in government and solid improvements on roads and transportation."

The 2005 legislative session begins Jan. 10.

Wallace can be reached at 256-0689, (800) 562-6000, (360) 786-7976 and wallace.deb@leg.wa.gov

FIRE DESTROYS HOCKINSON HOME

A home constructed in 1903 at 11412 NE 202 Ave., Hockinson, was destroyed in a Dec. 22 fire that may have started from a heat lamp installed on a back porch for a dog.

Fire District 3 responded to the 9 a.m. blaze with four rigs and help from Vancouver Fire. In all about 30 firefighters were on the scene.

The home was originally occupied by Harry and Annie Ahlquist, according to their grandson Norman Ahlquist. The home remains in the Ahlquist family, and was most recently occupied by Theresa Smith and her daughter Ashley Bigler. No one was at home at the time of the fire, according to Fire District 3 spokesman Ray Steiger.

Fire District 3 chief Steve Wrightson said the metal roof on the home complicated the effort to suppress the fire which had moved into the attic. The older home had no fire stops, said Wrightson, so the fire spread rapidly. The metal roof kept the heat in, he said, and crews could not readily walk on the roof without risk of sliding off.

A ladder truck from Vancouver Fire was used to facilitate removal of the metal roof.

Wrightson said a cat and bird perished in the blaze, but no one else was injured.

COUNTY SEEKS DELAY IN GROWTH PLAN APPEALS

Attorneys representing all 14 groups that have appealed various aspects of the Clark County Growth Management Plan have given preliminary approval to a delay of proceedings.

Clark County attorney Rich Lowry suggested the delay at a pre-hearing conference Dec. 14.

Lowry said that a new board of commissioners could have different views about the growth plan and appeal petitions. "There is a reasonable potential that the county will seek to settle some of the challenges presented by these petitions," said Lowry.

Lowry said he will meet with the new commissioners the second week of January and obtain their direction on how to proceed with the appeal process.

Commissioner Betty Sue Morris, who voted against the growth plan update, was reelected and continues in office.

Commissioners Judie Stanton and Craig Pridemore will not return to office. Republican Marc Boldt will replace Stanton and appointee Steve Stuart has been sworn in to replace Pridemore.

Lowry suggested a 60-day delay in the appeal process.

The 14 appeals range from an appeal by the city of Battle Ground for expanded growth boundaries, to an appeal by the Clark County Natural Resources Council that Battle Ground schools don't have the money to keep up with student growth.

In asking for a delay, Lowry said he needs time for the new board of commissioners to "gel" and give him direction on how to proceed.

Karpinski described Lowry's position as "waving the white flag."

Karpinski suggested that Lowry wants to seek appeal settlements with building and growth interests that would allow added development, but not with the organization he represents.

Lowry said it is premature to describe his call for a delay as "waving the white flag" because he has yet to hear from the new commissioners.

Lowry said the commissioners could change their own rules about the frequency of growth boundary review and reconsider boundaries. Such a rule change could be appealed, he said.

Lowry said the county's options for reconsidering the growth plan are different if such reconsideration is self-initiated versus ordered by the state Growth Management Hearings Board.

COMMISSIONERS TO MULL WATER, SEWER HIKES

Increases in water and sewer rates will be on the agenda when the board of commissioners for Clark Public Utilities meets Tues., Jan. 4.

Rick Dyer, director of finance for the utility, said a water rate increase of about six percent is needed to balance the water system budget.

The increase could come from monthly user rates, from system development charges paid by new customers, or a combination of the two, said Dyer.

The utility provides water service to more than 27,000 homes and businesses in various parts of Clark County.

The utility operates a wastewater system for the city of La Center where revenue increases are also needed, said Dyer.

Dyer said the monthly wastewater service fee, which is currently $26.89 per single family residence, could be increased to $34-40. The system development charge, currently $4,320, could increase to $5,500. Or the two fees could both be increased by some amount.

Dyer said wastewater revenues are below expectations because fewer new connections have been made than anticipated. This resulted in lower revenues from both system development charges and monthly services fees, he said.

In addition, the cost of building the system's new treatment facility was higher than expected, and the utility received a small loan than expected from the state's Public Works Trust Fund.

The shortfall in construction money was borrowed from the utility's electric system and is to be repaid with interest.

"It is important to note that rates for services within each operating system--electric, water and wastewater--must be set to reflect the cost of providing the service," said Dyer. "Rates from one system cannot be used to subsidize other services."

The commissioners postponed consideration of the rate changes from Dec. 21 to Jan. 4.

Information, Mick Shutt, 992-3238.

MOSS REAPPOINTED TO PLANNING COMMISSION

Civil engineer Lonnie Moss, a Battle Ground resident who operates an engineering business in Vancouver, was reappointed to the Clark County planning commission Dec. 9 by the Clark county commissioners.

Moss will complete his first term Dec. 31, and has accepted reappointment for another six-year term extending through December 2010.

The commissioners had called for applications for Moss' position. Ten people applied and four were interviewed.

Those applying were Milada Allen, Paul Dicker, Mark Nickerson, Pam Duncan, Daniel Weaver, Arvid Kulits, Ralph Olsen, George Vartanian, Laura Caine, Micheal Wade and Moss.

Interviews with Vartanian, Caine, Wade and Moss were held Dec. 8-9.

Commissioner Betty Sue Morris said she favored the reappointment of Moss from the beginning, but then-commissioner Craig Pridemore wanted to consider other candidates.

Morris said that after the interviews were conducted, Pridemore "could not find a reason for replacing Moss on the commission," said Morris. "He (Moss) had a lot of support," said Morris. "The planning commission voted unanimously in support."

Morris said the decision to call for applicants for Moss' position was spurred in part by criticism the commissioners had received following a reappointment of a trustee of the Fort Vancouver Regional Library which was made without consideration of other candidates.