CURTIS RESIGNS COUNCIL SEAT
Bill Myers, staff reporter
Richard Curtis, elected last November to represent the 18th legislative district, resigned his La Center city council post Feb. 9.
In a brief statement, Curtis said a proposed tribal casino and hotel near I-5 without appropriate tax revenue would be bad for the community and schools.
The casino proposal could be the biggest issue faced by the city and county for years to come, said Curtis. "If we can mitigate issues, so be it, but (tribal gaming) laws were never designed to exchange economies," he added.
Handling dual responsibilities of a city council member and state legislator was becoming more difficult as he became more involved with state issues, said Curtis.
Curtis, who founded a regional governmental task force to examine impacts of a proposed tribal gaming casino west of La Center at the I-5 junction, said he will do everything possible to make sure that 18th District citizens are well represented.
La Center mayor James Irish said council members will appoint someone to complete Curtis' term, due to expire in December 2005. Interested citizens of La Center should submit letters and resumes, he said.
FOX IS NEW MANAGER IN RIDGEFIELD
Newest council member also joins ranks
Alice Perry Linker, staff reporter
Ridgefield's new city manager is no stranger to the community. George Fox has been the interim city manager for nearly a year.
Fox was appointed to the top job on Feb. 14. His official appointment depends upon a successful contract negotiation.
Fox is not the only new appointment to the city government.
Steve Hanson, a member of the city Planning Commission, was named to city council on Feb. 10.
Hanson, who was the only candidate to replace Tim Thompson who resigned in January, must seek election to a full term in November.
Mayor Gladys Doriot said that an employment agreement committee made up of council members Gary Adkins and Hanson will negotiate a contract with Fox.
Doriot hopes the council will ratify the agreement at a council meeting on Feb. 24. At that time, the contract will be made public.
Until a contract is signed, Fox will continue to serve as interim city manager.
The city has budgeted $120,000 plus benefits for the city manager salary. The council has said the position is full time.
Originally, Fox said he would serve only in the interim while the city searched for a new manager. He did not apply for the job last summer when council sought applications.
Fox changed his mind, however, before the end of the year.
"I found Ridgefield to be an interesting, happy place," he said. "I've really enjoyed building up this team, and I'd like to do it full time."
Fox took the city's reins after the former city manager, Randy Bombardier, was dismissed. Bombardier was charged in connection with the removal of lead-based paint from city hall.
Since Fox has been interim manager, the city has hired new public works and community development directors and increased city staff, as well as expanded city boundaries.
Fox, also deputy director of the Port of Ridgefield, said he hopes to continue some association with the Port.
"I'll resign as deputy director, but I'd hope to maintain some relationship with the Port if time allows," he said.
A licensed Certified Public Accountant and a non-practicing attorney, Fox hopes to continue as a consultant for the Port of Shelton. He has been a consultant for the Ports of Olympia and Klickitat, but plans to relinquish those posts.
Although Fox has worked as consultant for public entities, he had not led a city until his interim appointment last year.
Fox was one of two finalists from a field of about 30 applicants for city manager. The other finalist, Dan Sockle, has spent his life in the Army and working for the government. He has no experience in managing a city, but last summer he decided to apply for the Ridgefield job.
Sockle, a tort claims investigator for the state Office of Financial Management, works in Olympia but lives in Salmon Creek.
During the process of hiring the city manager, the city council sponsored an open house for the candidates and conducted interviews.
Council member Gary Holmberg said 15 people participated on the interview teams.
"We're trying to project into the future," Holmberg said. "This position requires vision and management skills."
Sockle said he has "been all over and around city government."
"In my 37 years, I've worked with many governments as an organizer and facilitator," Sockle said. "I think this is a calling."
Sockle applied for the job when it was advertised last summer. He said he's attended city council meetings since then.
Doriot declined to comment on Stockle's qualifications except to say, "We do appreciate his application."
New council member has background in construction
Hanson, owner of Lockett Construction in Ridgefield, moved to Ridgefield in 1993 from Seattle where he operated a construction company.
"I grew up in a small town," he said. "I moved here because I like the community. It's a neat town."
A native of Anchor Point, AK, Hanson worked on oil pipeline-related projects until 1986.
Lockett employs about 150 people, Hanson said, and works primarily on major renovation projects, especially in the construction of earthquake-safe buildings.
Although the company accepts contracts throughout the U.S., Hanson does not work in the field and does not often travel.
Hanson applied for the council position because "I want to see the core of the town enhanced and preserved."
"It's a unique community," he said.
In addition to his work with the city, Hanson is a member of the Nazarene Church and the Lions Club.
Hanson and his wife, Robin, have three daughters, Hillary, a high school senior; Corey, a fifth grade student, and Kendall, a third grade student.
AMBOY MAN MISSING SINCE FEB. 8
Heidi Wallenborn, news director
Tom Taylor, 68, has been missing from his Amboy home since the morning of Feb. 8.
Clark County Sheriff deputies, Silver Star Search and Rescue and Red Cross volunteers have combed back roads and logging roads in north Clark County over the last week, said his brother Dave Taylor of Dollars Corner.
Tom Taylor was last seen by his son, Carlin Taylor, about 8 a.m. that Tuesday morning.
Tom withdrew $60 out of an ATM across the street from Countree Kitchen restaurant in Amboy and breakfasted there, said his brother.
After that, it appeared Tom visited a Yacolt mini-mart to purchase chicken strips and donuts, returned home, and left the receipt on the table, Dave Taylor said. His brother's coat was left on the arm of the davenport, and the house was "neat as a pin, as usual."
Tom Taylor has insulin- dependent diabetes and takes heart medication. Dave said his brother has had five bypass surgeries and has two stints in his heart.
It appeared Tom had taken his diabetes injection that morning but left all his medication behind, including the evening injection, Dave said.
Tom's constant companion, a 6-month-old black lab/beagle/hound mix, was with him, likely in his regular spot in the front seat.
Tom drives a 2003 coal black Jeep Wrangler with a hard-top roof. The Washington license plate is 400TJC.
Dave said his brother was likely wearing his normal attire of a hat of some sort, neatly pressed blue jeans and a shirt of some shade of blue to match his pants. He also likely wore low heel boots with a holster and pistol on one ankle.
Tom was known to enjoy traveling over back country and logging roads for pleasure, his brother said. Tom is a former log trucker, grew up in the Yacolt area, and knew rural areas well.
The family didn't become aware that something was amiss until Friday morning, Feb. 11, Dave said.
Tom didn't show up at his brother's house on Thursday afternoon as was customary after a breakfast at Jollie's Restaurant with a friend.
Dave figured that since it was such an unseasonably nice day, Tom had gone home to work in the yard or something.
Dave woke up the next morning with the feeling that he should call his brother. About that same time his nephew Phil called from Prineville, OR.
"Phil said he'd been trying to get ahold of Tom all week and wanted to know where he was," Dave said. "Phil was supposed to come up for the weekend to go to a sports show on Friday and couldn't make it."
Dave and others went to Tom's house on 5 acres and found it locked up. The team pried open a window and found nothing amiss, except that all his medications were still there and two "big rifles" were missing, Dave said.
Since his heart operations, Tom had said he wanted to sell the guns because they were too big for him to shoot anymore and hurt his shoulder. Dave said he didn't know if they had already been sold.
A Vietnam War vet who served two terms on a Navy gunboat going up and down rivers, Tom was a firearms enthusiast. Sometimes he would go on drives and find a place to shoot. He kept a pistol under a seat in his Jeep, Dave said.
Dave has been working with rescue teams to find his brother. Airplanes were sent out on Sunday afternoon, but were called back due to snow in the Silver Star mountain area. He said plans are to send them out again.
Searches have been concentrated in the Yacolt Burn, Swift Creek Canyon, Lewis River and Silver Star areas. Plans are to expand every day, Dave said.
"There's no sign of him, it's just like he disappeared," Dave said. "We're sure he's in Clark County. I know that if we find that jeep, we'll find him."
Anyone with information is asked to call 911 or the Sheriff's Office at 397-2211.
OBITS:
EVEANN CLASSEN
EveAnn Misovetz Classen, 56, was murdered Feb. 8, 2005 at home in Vancouver.
Classen was born July 23, 1948 in Vancouver to Joseph and Victoria Misovetz.
Family members say she defied the conventions of her day and became a vocal and strong woman and earned a business degree at Portland State University.
After graduation from college, she married James Classen of The Dalles, OR. The two traveled from Portland to Vancouver, BC, before finally settling in Vancouver during the early years of their marriage.
During these years she balanced managing a dental office while raising two boys. She spent the last 15 years of her life as a health care consultant and adjunct professor of medical ethics and office procedures at area universities.
In the last two years she served as chairperson of the board of directors for Innovative Services Northwest, a local non-profit organization.
Through the course of her 56 years, she was a business owner, teacher, entrepreneur, and a community leader. But most of all, she was a loving and supportive mother, sister, wife and friend, say family members.
Her legacy will live on through sons Maurice and Marcel Classen, brother Mike Misovetz, as well as many friends and admirers, said family.
Classen was a powerful, positive force in the life of everyone she touched, family said. She was taken from the world too soon.
Classen was preceded in death by her parents. She is survived by sons Maurice Classen and Marcel Classen, and brother Mike Misovetz.
A funeral service was held Feb. 12 in Vancouver. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be given to Innovative Services NW, 1041 NE Fourth Plain Rd., suite 101, Vancouver, WA 98662.
Vancouver Funeral Chapel was in charge of arrangements.
OBITS:
LINDA KIIVE
Linda Jo (Garwood) Kiive, 58, died Jan. 30, 2005 in Vancouver.
Kiive was born July 19, 1946 in Vancouver. She graduated from Battle Ground High School in 1964, sang in the high school choir, and marched in the Portland Rose Festival Parade.
Kiive enjoyed music, singing, dancing, traveling, jokes and funny stories. She also enjoyed taking cruises and traveling to Reno and Las Vegas, NV.
Kiive fought cancer for 15 years. She had a bright outlook for the future and did not worry about things she could not do.
Kiive spent every July 19, her birthday, in Seaside, OR, home of her late grandmother.
Survivors include companion and caregiver Jim Jennings of Vancouver, son Kevin Kiive of Seattle, daughters Shawn Foy of Seattle and Kysha Kiive of Vancouver, parents Forest (Frosty) and Marjorie Miller of Battle Ground, brother Rodney Garwood of Montana, half brother Gary Garwood of Nevada, half sister Wanda of Vancouver, grandchildren Jack Foy and Leo Kiive, special and dear friend from the fifth grade Karen Burt of Washougal, and many nieces, nephews and friends.
Interment was at Parkhill Cemetery, with Evergreen Staples Funeral Chapel, Vancouver, in charge of arrangements.
ANNA DURDLE
Anna Lorayne (Havey) Durdle, 83, died Feb. 4, 2005 in Ridgefield.
Durdle was born May 21, 1921 in Marigold, CA.
Durdle moved to the Vancouver-Amboy area after high school, and had lived in White Salmon, Troutlake and Barker, OR. She lived in Carson 1963-1991 before moving to Vancouver and then to Ridgefield four years ago.
Durdle volunteered in school, served as a scout leader, and was a member of the Order of Eastern Star. She had attended Faith Tabernacle in Stevenson.
Durdle was preceded in death by her husband of 51 years, Richard Durdle, in 1991, and by brother Richard Hughes. Survivors include son Lester Lee Durdle of Vancouver, daughter Donna Taylor of Ridgefield, four grandchildren and three great-grandchildren.
Burial was at Carson Cemetery, with Memorial Gardens Funeral Chapel in charge of arrangements.
BRANDON MOOR
Brandon Michael Moor, 21, died in a traffic accident Jan. 31, 2005 near Dalton, Georgia.
Moor was born Sept. 14, 1983 in Portland, graduated from Columbia Adventist Academy in 2002, and had attended Walla Walla College.
Moor had taken a year off from college to serve on a task force at Calhoun's Georgia-Cumberland-Academy in Georgia where he was a volunteer assistant chaplain.
Moor was pursuing a career as a chaplain or high school Bible teacher.
Moor had devoted four summers to Big Lake Youth Camp in Sisters, OR, where he pursued his interests in music and sports. He enjoyed basketball, worship music, and the guitar. He loved youth and children.
Survivors include parents Jim and Lynae Moor of Battle Ground, brother Ryan Moor of Battle Ground, sisters Trisha Moor and Emily Moor, both of Battle Ground, and grandparents Fred and Edith Moor of Battle Ground and Ed and Allegra Gienger of College Place.
Memorial may be sent to Big Lake Youth Camp in Sisters, OR.
Layne's Funeral Home, Battle Ground, was in charge of arrangements.
COMMERICAL, INDUSTRIAL POWER USERS TO GET REFUNDS
Commerical and industrial users of electricity in Cowlitz County will receive billing credits or refunds as part of an antitrust settlement arranged by the state Attorney General.
Dave Andrew, spokesman for Cowlitz Public Utility District, said the Attorney General distributed over $10 million to electric utilities in Washington that raised rates to commercial and industrial customers during the energy crisis of 2000-2001. The Cowlitz share of the settlement was $933,266.
Andrew said the Utility would, in turn, make refunds or credits to its commercial and industrial customers for the full amount.
The Attorneys General of several western states pursued claims against Williams Companies, El Paso Corporation and Duke Energy Corporation in issues of over-charging. Retail electricity rates moved up sharply at that time.
The Attorneys General alleged that these companies manipulated markets to artificially inflate energy prices.
"We are pleased to pass on 100 percent of the settlement funds," said Andrew. "At the same time, we recognize that these refunds do not even begin to match the level of financial harm done to our customers as a result of the illegal business practices of several power marketing companies in 2000 and 2001."
Andrew said about $733,000 of the funds will be credited to industrial customers, and about $200,000 to commercial users.
"The amount of the credit for each commercial customers will be based on their electrical usage as compared to all other commercial customers," said Andrew.
Credits will be listed in a separate line item on each customer's bill.
About $13 million has already been distributed to utilities for loss suffered by residential customers, about $562,000 of which went to Cowlitz Public Utility District. That money has been earmarked for energy efficiency and energy assistance programs.
Cowlitz Utility District will use about 60 percent of its residential refund money to implement a Compact Fluorescent Light (CFL) distribution campaign.
"During April and May (2005), Cowlitz PUD will send each residential customer two coupons, each worth $4 off the purchase price of a CFL," said Andrew. The bulbs sell for about $4, said Andrew, so customers will essentially get two free CFLs. "We expect to repeat the promotion later in the year."
The remaining residential funds are to be used to supplement power needs of low income customers in 2005 and 2006.
Andrew can be reached at (360) 577-7502.
STATE MODIFIES 219TH INTERSECTION PLAN
Citing reduced construction costs and fewer environmental impacts, officials of the state Department of Transportation have altered the configuration of the planned new I-5 interchange at NE 219th Street west of Battle Ground.
Chuck Ruhsenberger, area engineer for the Department of Transportation, said a new northbound loop ramp will have fewer impacts on property owners and fewer design challenges.
Under the new plan, Battle Ground traffic seeking to travel north on I-5 will turn left mid-way between Duluth and the freeway, then loop to the right for freeway access.
Under the previous plan, northbound traffic would have turned right directly onto a freeway on-ramp.
The previously-planned on-ramp, said Ruhsenberger, crossed Gee Creek, which raised more environmental issues and added cost.
The new plan will require the acquisition of fewer acres, said Ruhsenberger.
In all, the plan revision will save about $1 million. The savings comes from less earth-moving and excavation, fewer retaining walls, and other construction savings, said Ruhsenberger.
Planner Ben Vincent said the previous ramp plan required the removal of 90,000 cubic yards of excess material, whereas the new plan requires the removal of 7,500 cubic yards for a savings of $600,000.Ruhsenberger said a decision has not yet been made as to whether a traffic signal will be needed at the left turn to northbound I-5 location. He said most westbound traffic is seeking to travel south on I-5, not north.
The northbound loop will pass under SR 502 at it reaches I-5.
State Route 502 will be realigned to the south as it passes through Duluth, said Ruhsenberger. The former Dollars Corner tavern building, now operated as a furniture and home decor business, will either be moved or torn down, he said.
Businesses on the north side of SR 502 at Duluth will not be affected, he said.
There will be no access to SR 502 west of Duluth, said Ruhsenberger.
Ruhsenberger can be reached at 759-1312.
EDITORIAL:
VERY ENCOURAGING
Last week's issue of The Reflector contained hundreds of Valentine's messages of love and affection from husbands, wives, children, grandparents, friends and other relatives. The letters made for worthwhile reading.
As is usually the case with The Reflector's annual, free Valentine's message program, this year's letters contained one proposal of marriage. Readers can expect a follow-up on that letter with a report on how the proposal turned out.
The letters contained strong reasons to feel optimistic about the strength of marriages and relationships in southwest Washington.
Women told their husbands how happy they are and that they could not imagine life without their man. Many described their feelings each time they saw their husbands drive in the driveway or return home.
Letters from men contained messages of sincere happiness with their marriage and spouse. They have never been happier, many write.
Letters from both men and women frequently predicted that as happy as they are, the best may be yet to come.
It is easy to understand messages of love from grandparents to their grandchildren, and from parents to their children. Last week's issue contained plenty of those.
It is inspiring to read so many Valentine's message to spouses, affirming the health and stability of marriages in the community. That's wonderful.
Of course, space did not allow publication of all letters received. Some letters were not properly signed. Some letters were omitted if the writer had submitted more than one. Still other letters arrived after the Feb. 1 deadline. Some letters were not published solely on the basis of space. After all was said and done, about 100 letters were not used.
Some callers were greatly disappointed that their letters were not included in the Valentine's issue. It's a troubling dilemma. A newspaper must make money to remain in business, which means having an adequate amount of advertising pretty much on every page. There was simply no way to publish another page or two of Valentine letters without adverse financial consequences.
This writer encourages readers to examine this year's Valentine's Day letters and develop their own sense of the strength of marriages and other relationships in the community. This is by no means a random sample, but it is uplifting and inspiring reading.
Marvin F. Case
C-TRAN HIKES FARE, DROPS TRANSFERSOfficials of C-TRAN bus service in Clark County have raised the in-county fare from $1 to $1.25, and eliminated transfers.
The new fare will take effect May 1.
Riders will now pay the higher fare each time they board a bus.
C-TRAN's All Zone Fare will increase from $1.75 to $2.25, designed for service that connects C-TRAN buses with TriMet service in Portland along the I-5 and I-205 corridors.
The rates applies to C-TRAN's Route 165 which serves the Parkrose light rail station, and routes that connect Vancouver's 7th Street Transit Center with TriMet's Line 6.
A new Premium Commuter Fare will cover direct service from Clark County to downtown Portland for $105 a month. Officials had proposed a $3 per trip fare to Portland, but no decision was reached last week.
The new rate structure provides for an in-county fare of 60 cents for seniors and disabled people, up from 50 cents but less than the new $1.25 adult fare.
Seniors and disabled people will pay $1.10 to connect to TriMet in Portland, up from 50 cents.
The monthly all-zone fare will cost $78, up from $52, while the all-zone fare for seniors will be $36.
When implemented in May, the new fares will be C-TRAN's third fare increase in five years.
The fare increase is part of a plan to bring financial stability to the struggling transit agency.
C-TRAN officials hope to increase "fare box recovery" from under 19 percent to the national average of 21.3 percent in three years. "Fare box recovery" is the portion of the transportation cost paid directly by those who ride the bus.
In addition to fare increases, C-TRAN has reorganized its management departments, consolidating five departments into three. This change resulted in the elimination of 14 management positions and reducing salaries and benefits by $270,000. Eight of the 14 positions were vacant when eliminated.
In addition, C-TRAN management staff agreed to no cost-of-living increases in 2005, saving the agency about $68,000.
Voters turned down a tax increase plan last year. Although service cuts were slated for January 2005 if the tax measure failed, those cuts were not implemented.
C-TRAN spokesman Scott Patterson said service cuts have been deferred until September 2005.
C-TRAN officials listened to dozens of people testify at a Jan. 11 public hearing on the rate increase before making decision on the new rates Feb. 8.
Ridership expected to decline
C-TRAN officials expect the higher fares to result in a decline in ridership but an increase in revenues.
A study by Nelson/Nygaard of California predicted that the planned fare increases would reduce ridership by 500,000 per year, but add about $800,000 in revenues.
The increase in revenues is due to the elimination of transfers and the conversion of adult riders from cash fares to day passes.The consultant concluded that transit ridership is "highly" sensitive to increases in fares, and that every 10 percent increase in fares would cause a three percent decline in ridership.
Patterson said the C-TRAN board spent over five hours Feb. 8 considering the fare increase matters.
Service area may change
C-TRAN officials continue to consider changes in the bus service boundary.
Under the latest proposal, service would be provided to the incorporated cities, including Vancouver, Battle Ground and Ridgefield, but not areas in between.
While buses would reach Battle Ground, for example, they would not stop between Battle Ground and urban Vancouver, nor would C-VAN service be offered more than three-quarters mile from a route.
Patterson said the reduced service area would add to the reduction in ridership expected with the fare increases.
A public hearing on the proposed C-TRAN service boundary is set for March 22.
WOMAN'S BRUTAL DEATH STUNS COMMUNITY
Battle Ground dentist accused of murdering wife with scissors
Heidi Wallenborn, news director
James Norman Classen, 59, Vancouver, made a first appearance at Clark County Superior Court Feb. 9 after being booked on charges of first degree murder/domestic violence.
The well-known Battle Ground dentist is accused of murdering EveAnn Classen, his wife of 31 years, while she slept in her home about 2 a.m. on Feb. 8.
An affidavit filed by Clark County sheriff's Det. Rick Buckner said Classen stabbed the 56-year-old woman to death with sewing scissors.
Classen's arraignment is set for Fri., Feb. 18. Meanwhile, he is being held on $3 million bail.
According to the affidavit, the couple separated about two years ago. EveAnn lived in the couple's home at 500 NE 154th St. in the Pleasant Valley area. Classen resided in a duplex on NE 105th Ave. and Fourth Plain Blvd. in Orchards.
The couple have two grown sons in their 20s.
Classen operated a dental clinic at W Main Street and SW 20th Ave., Battle Ground.
Clinic employee Donna Cross told The Reflector that Classen announced to staff about two weeks ago that his wife wanted to go ahead with a divorce.
Cross, a 30-year employee who works as a hygienist, saw no change in Classen's demeanor in recent weeks. The divorce was pending and they were going to counseling the last 18 months or so.
County District Court records show Classen was arrested in January 2002 for fourth degree assault/domestic violence when he struck EveAnn with his right fist to her head. Classen was given a deferred sentence. When he did not re-offend, the charge was dismissed.
According to a search warrant affidavit, regarding the Feb. 8 incident Classen reportedly told County deputies that he discovered his wife had a boyfriend and admitted it to him about one month ago.
Classen reportedly said at that point counseling sessions stopped and that he felt that EveAnn was "just stringing him along" and had no interest to reconcile.
In the affidavit, Classen reportedly said he went to his wife's residence about 2 a.m. and entered through an unlocked back door. The inside lights were out and he did not know if she was alone or with someone else, he reportedly said.
Classen allegedly walked into the sewing room and took a pair of scissors from the wall before heading into the master bedroom upstairs. He reportedly told officers he turned on the light and found his wife alone, asleep on the bed face down. She wore gray socks, red plaid pajama pants and a black sweatshirt.
The affidavit states that Classen admitted stabbing EveAnn in the back of the head. He reportedly said she woke up and began struggling and he continued stabbing her more than a dozen times with the scissors.
Classen reportedly told deputies that EveAnn said, "Please don't," and "Think of our sons Maurice and Marcel," while he continued stabbing her. Classen reportedly said he told her she was "evil."
A County Medical Examiner's Office spokesperson said death was by "multiple sharp force wounds mostly in the head, but virtually all over her body." When asked how many stab wounds there were, the spokesperson replied, "Too many to count."
The affidavit states that Classen returned to his duplex, showered, and wrapped his bloody clothes and the scissors in a towel. He reportedly drove to his cabin at 472 Beacon Highland Rd., Stevenson, and called a friend to say he'd killed his wife. He allegedly threw the towel and its contents down an embankment about 75 feet from the cabin.
Two friends arrived at the cabin to speak with Classen, the affidavit states. One of them called 911 from there to report EveAnn was injured.
Three deputies arrived at EveAnn's house about 6:45 a.m. and forced the front door open, the affidavit states. Two raced upstairs and found her body between the door and the bed with stab wounds on her arms, neck, chest, pelvic area and face. The room, rug and bedding were splattered with blood, and the fabric from a canopy torn down, the report said.
Classen was taken into custody by Skamania County deputies and detained until Clark County deputies arrived and interviewed him, including a videotaped confession, the report states.
Defense attorney Jon McMullen will represent Classen, and said he will seek a mental evaluation for his client.
"Shocked"
"We're all just shocked," said Trish Gambill. "I'm still picking up my jaw off the floor."
Gambill sang in the community Touch of Class choir, and sat across from Classen, who sings tenor.
"We meet every Monday for practice," Gambill said of the group. "I think he's been there 10 years--a long time."
Gambill said Classen seemed to be a "real private person who didn't air his laundry."
"He always had a smile for everybody, he was chatty on the way out that night and told Bob Nicholson `See you on Monday,'" Gambill said.
Classen allegedly killed his wife just a few hours later.
"Although," she added, "it was funny. That night I noticed he'd got his hair cut, and I thought he looked spiffy. There was absolutely nothing about him that seemed out of the ordinary."
"He is a sweet, nice, friendly man," Gambill said. "I never heard a negative word come out of his mouth."
Sue Coates, a dental client, teared up when speaking about her dentist.
"This is so unbelievable," she said. "He is so soft spoken. There was never one iota of anything about him that he could do something like this."
Cross said her boss left personal issues at the back door when he came to work in the morning and seemed like the same person in recent weeks, "very professional."
"He was upbeat and positive on Monday," Cross said. "We had no indication."
The office will remain open until it is sold at a later date, Cross said.
Meanwhile, the staff are committed to serve the community's dental health needs, and Dr. Jack Richards will handle patients, she said.
Richards, a retired dentist from California, has been with the Classen Clinic for three years.
Cross urged patients to continue to support the practice.
"We are struggling with a lot of loss right now," Cross said. "The loss of her, the loss of him, the loss of this practice and the loss of our team."
"This is such a tragic thing," Gambill said. "We feel so badly for the entire family and Jim. We're keeping them all in our prayers."
Office hours are Mon.-Tues., 9 a.m.-6 p.m., Wed.-Thurs., 7 a.m.-4 p.m., and closed on Fridays and weekends. Phone number is 687-5665.
EVEANN CLASSEN: A LIFE INTERRUPTED
Heidi Wallenborn, news director
At 56, some people may begin to think of retirement and slow down the pace of life to enjoy the beginnings of a rosy colored sunset.
Such was not the case for EveAnn Classen, mother, teacher, mentor and volunteer. According to those who knew her, she was going full bore with no signs of stopping.
But her life was cut short about 2 a.m. Feb. 8 when her estranged husband, James Classen, allegedly snuck into her house and stabbed her in the head several times with sewing scissors.
Classen, 59, a popular Battle Ground dentist, is being held on $3 million bail for first degree murder charges. He is set to be arraigned Feb. 18.
The couple separated two years ago. EveAnn Classen reportedly announced about two weeks ago that she would pursue a divorce.
A life remembered
EveAnn Classen worked part time at Portland Community College and Mt. Hood Community College in Gresham, OR.
Students who arrived at a medical ethics class Tuesday morning at Mt. Hood were not greeted by their beloved teacher.
Al Sagala, College spokesperson, said faculty met with students to personally tell them their teacher had been murdered that morning.
"That was very hard to do," Sagala said, "because we were dealing with the same things they were."
"It's a big loss for them and us," he added. "She was a great teacher, well respected by students and faculty. She made a difference, which makes it even that much harder for those who were close to her."
"Just the fact that she was so well liked by her students is a reflection of the kind of instructor she was," Sagala added. "That's a lot of lives she touched in 15 years."
Grievance counselors have been available to faculty and students all week, he said, to give everyone a chance to grieve and speak.
Classen was also chair of the board of directors for Innovative Services NW, a non-profit group that provides services for children and adults with disabilities and social disadvantages. She worked there seven years.
"Ironically, she helped people deal with domestic violence issues," said agency president Bob Gaylor.
Gaylor described Classen as a "very petite, very attractive" lady "with the personality of a freight train."
Classen had total corporate oversight of the organization which provides services such as reunification with families, child abuse and more.
Last year she spearheaded a first annual Care Affair Auction that netted $52,000 for the group, said Mike Wilson, development director.
"She was involved in events, had oversight on board meetings, facility committees and the campaign cabinet and more," Wilson said. "But she always had time for, and was very proud of, her [two grown] sons. They had a very strong relationship."
Classen also had her own medical consulting practice, and still found time to do things she enjoyed.
Friend and co-worker at Innovative Services NW Launda Carroll said Classen enjoyed outdoor activities, canoeing and hiking, and was very creative.
"She had personality, vitality, compassion, passion, commitment to the community," she said. "So many words describe her. She reflected all those in everything she set her mind to doing."
Gaylor said that "once we work our way through the shock," work will continue.
"Even though her chair is now vacant, I'm sure we will continue to feel the impact of this loss for years to come as we go forward," Gaylor said.
Classen provided vision to leaders on how to organize, move and grow, he said.
Classen mentored staff and "had a passion for the work here," Wilson added.
"She raised the bar on showing love and compassion for all children and adults--the 700 we see in here every week," he said.
Grief counselors are provided for staff and anyone who needs help, Gaylor said.
"We will move forward," he added, "but it isn't going to be easy."
Although Carroll is grieving Classen's loss and the brutal way she died, she has chosen to set her eyes elsewhere.
"It's important to celebrate and focus on her wonderful life," she said. "Not on the way she died."
OBITS:
ROBERT ZAWERUCHA
Robert Richard Zawerucha, 48, died of a heart attack Feb. 8, 2005, at Scappoose, OR.
Zawerucha was born Sept. 28, 1956, in Vancouver, graduated from Battle Ground High School in 1974, and worked as a medic and managed a gas station.
Zawerucha enjoyed writing, outdoor sports, golf and baseball. He had lived in Warrenton, Bend, and Scappoose, OR, Georgia, and Clark County.
Zawerucha was preceded in death by father Robert Louis Zawerucha in 1979, and /grandmothers Christina Zawerucha and Verna Silver. Survivors include fiance Kim Anderson of Scappoose, OR, parents Suzanne and Michael Carroll of Battle Ground, brother John Zawerucha of Raymond, sisters Cindy Egbert and Janet Hartman, both of Battle Ground, and Paula Zawerucha of Arizona, and numerous nieces, nephews and great-nieces and nephews.
Condolences are invited in care of the Zawerucha family, 24208 NE 92nd Ave., Battle Ground, WA 98604. Columbia Funeral Home, St. Helens, OR, is in charge of arrangements.
VANCOUVER PARKS BOND TOO CLOSE TO CALL
Alice Perry Linker, staff reporter
Hockinson may get a new 240-acre park, if voter approval of additional property taxes holds up.
Clark County auditor Greg Kimsey said, however, that the results of the Feb. 8 election to form a parks district were too close to call as of Feb. 10.
"A 46-vote difference, that's too close to conclude that it has passed," Kimsey said. "We won't be able to conclude that it has passed until we certify the election."
Certification will take place Feb. 18.
Voters were asked to approve a 27-cent increase in property taxes, or $45.90 per year for a house valued at $170,000.
About 175 votes had not been counted as of late last week and a few more were expected to trickle in, Kimsey said.
Preliminary results showed voters giving the nod in a special mail ballot election. The margin of victory was 50.09 percent yes, to 49.91 percent no.
The additional property taxes would be collected beginning in 2006, according to the assessor's office.
Vancouver-Clark Parks and Recreation officials have said that the department cannot maintain new parks without additional revenue.
Park impact fees paid by developers are used only for land acquisition and may not be used for maintenance, said David Judd, director of Vancouver-Clark Parks and Recreation.
"At this moment we're waiting for the results," Judd said.
The department has collected about $12 million to buy land for parks. Money not used to buy parks must be returned. Judd said about $680,000 would be refunded during 2005.
"And it goes up from there," he said. "We don't have any good choices" should the measure fail.
Hockinson community park, one of five new community parks, would be developed on the southeast corner of NE 172nd Ave. and NE 119th St.
Community parks could contain sports fields, picnic areas and other amenities. In addition to larger parks, 30 neighborhood parks would be developed or improved if the measure passes.
Building or improving all 35 parks is expected to take between seven and eight years.
SCHOOL SITES EXAMINED FOR BG BOND ISSUEMarcus Brotherton, staff reporter
Officials of the Battle Ground School District are working to pinpoint locations for new schools, should voters approve bonds on the March 8 ballot.
Part A of the March 8 bond is a $63 million package of construction and renovation projects similar in scope to a $54.9 million proposal that narrowly failed in May 2004.
Construction of two new K-8 school campuses are included in Part A, along with significant additions to the campus which contains Lewisville Middle, Captain Strong Elementary and Chief Umtuch Primary schools, the Amboy Middle campus, and the campus which contains Laurin Middle and Glenwood Heights Primary schools.
Various technology upgrades, land purchases and building repairs would also be made throughout the District, including modifications to Prairie High School's auditorium, track and roofs, and remodeling of the Battle Ground High School cafeteria to accommodate both a stage and cafeteria.
If Part A passes, state matching funds would contribute an additional $36.7 million toward part A for total project revenues of about $99.6 million.
Part B asks area voters for $19.5 million to build a high school in the north end of the District.
State funds would contribute about $11.6 million more to part B for a total revenues of about $31.1 million. The passage of Part B is contingent on the passage of Part A.
The following is a site-by-site look at what would happen if the bond passed:
** The Cresap Property, NE 112th Ave. and NE 239th St.
The Cresap property is marked as the first spot for a new K-8, said District superintendent Shonny Bria, although the District does not yet own the land.
The District currently has a three-way agreement with Cresap property owners and private developer Ed Greer to purchase 20 acres on the north end of the site, Bria said.
Greer, who had the option to purchase all 40 acres of the site, reportedly plans to put houses on the remaining 20 acres of the site.
The deal is set to close when the property is annexed into the city of Battle Ground, said District assistant superintendent Lynn Hicks. The parcel is currently set for inclusion within Clark County's recent Growth Management Act update, but appeals have slowed the process.
Battle Ground city manager Eric Holmes said the parcel's annexation would be discussed Feb. 22 at a city council meeting.
If voted for inclusion, the site would take four-six months for annexation, Holmes said.
Hicks said the District will purchase the property for $1.5 million, or about $76,000 per acre. The money to purchase the land will come from impact fees, not the bond. The District brings in about $1 million annually in impact fees.
September 2007 is the estimated occupancy date for a K-8 school on the Cresap site.
District operations director Kevin Jolma said three property studies have been done on the Cresap property: a wetlands delineation, a site survey and a topographic survey.
** The Remy property, east of NW 20th Ave.
The second K-8 campus could go one of three places, said Bria. The Remy property is being considered, although the city of Battle Ground currently owns the site.
Both District and city officials say they are currently having conversations about a trade of properties, but no formal negotiations have taken place.
One option calls for the District to receive about 20 acres running east and west on the high portion of the Remy property in exchange for 3.5 acres owned by the District west of the Battle Ground Library.
No further details are offered. Officials say the matter will be looked into further after voters make their decisions regarding bond passage.
** Mint Fields, NE 199th St. and NE 72nd Ave.
Another option for the second K-8 site is Mint Fields. The District purchased the 50 acres in October 1994 when more growth was anticipated in the west portion of the District, Hicks said.
Mint Fields are not in any city's Urban Growth Boundary, which means schools can still be built on site but more expense is incurred by the District for septic costs, as opposed to connecting to a city sewer system.
Hicks said Mint Fields has good traffic access and could alleviate some of the overcrowding in the Maple Grove schools.
Hicks said there has been no formal discussion held regarding selling the Mint Field property.
** WSU property, along NE 174th St., near univeristy.
A third option for the second K-8 campus is called the WSU property. The District purchased 40 acres in eight 5-acre parcels in 1990.
The WSU property is not in an urban growth boundary.
One drawback to the site, Hicks said, is that the property is not located in an area that has experienced significant student growth, even though the area was projected to grow when the property was purchased.
** Land for new north county high school
Land for a new north county high school is under investigation, said school board chairman Fred Striker, but no specific sites have been earmarked.
District officials met with Clark County officials in mid-January to discuss potential areas, Striker said.
Striker said the District has not used realtor services yet because the area/region that a high school would go has not yet been determined.
Three million dollars have been set aside in Part A of the March 8 bond to purchase land for a new high school, provide all costs for land preparation, and to "purchase land for other future school sites."
Striker said locations for the "other properties" described in the $3 million have not yet been determined, but land may be sought toward the east and north ends of Battle Ground.
Striker said four possible areas were being looked at for a high school, but he would not describe the areas yet.
"The Board won't make a determination until we explore all options," Striker said. "If we give too many details now, it may drive the cost of land up."