COWLITZ TRIBE BEGINS DUE DILIGENCE WORK ON SPEEDWAY PROPOSAL
By Michelle Kapitanovich
Members of the Cowlitz Tribe, working to attract an auto speedway to the area, have visited a site in Woodland with an official from International Speedway Corporation (ISC).
Tribal representatives have had two meetings about a potential speedway with Grant Lynch, vice president of ISC, a Daytona Beach, FL, company that operates 11 speedways around the country.
"The gist of that (first meeting) was to look at a site they thought would work out for us and talk about the issues that come with locating such facilities," Lynch said.
Lynch said the site examined was in Woodland near the Columbia River. He could not be more specific about the location.
Tribal spokesman David Barnett, however, said the tribe has no specific spot in mind. He first said the tribe would like to see the track located in southern Cowlitz County. But he later amended the comment, saying the tribe would look to site the facility somewhere in Southwest Washington.
"Everything is very preliminary at this point," Barnett said. "We're just trying to throw our hats into the ring and allow for economic opportunities to exist for Southwest Washington."
Pursuing the speedway could add yet another project to the tribe's already full plate.
It has asked the Bureau of Indian Affairs to place about 150 acres on the west side of the La Center junction into federal trust. The tribe hopes to build the state's largest casino there as well as a hotel, convention center, restaurants and retail storefronts.
The tribe is funding an environmental impact statement on the project, which should be done in the next year or so. Once completed, the Bureau of Indian Affairs will evaluate the appropriateness of the site for such use as well as the tribe's historical connection to the land.
Barnett called the track an "extra opportunity."
"It could make Southwest Washington a regional tourism center and compliment the casino project," he said. "Many other communities are looking to try to bring ISC and NASCAR to their area. Why shouldn't we try as well?"
Cowlitz County commissioner Jeff Rasmussen said the track could be a positive addition to an area with an 8.4 percent unemployment rate.
"Economic development and investment in the county is something we look forward to," he said. "Large investments can create employment opportunities that need to be encouraged."
ISC owns and develops race tracks throughout the nation. It has sought possible sites in Washington and Oregon for the past 18 months that could host National Association for Stock Car Auto Racing events.
"If you look at our speedways across America that host major events, the one section that doesn't have these facilities is the Northwest," Lynch said.
The company had settled on a site in Snohomish County near Marysville, but that deal fell through after cost estimates made the project unfeasible. In January, ISC once again began soliciting for potential locations.
To accommodate the mile-long track and the 75,000 to 80,000 spectators, Lynch said 800 to 1,000 acres are needed. Building such a project is expected to cost about $200 million.
Lynch said ISC wants a site that is within 40 to 50 minutes of Portland or Seattle. It must have adequate infrastructure, such as water, sewer and power, and available lodging for visitors. A local community willing to support the project is also necessary.
Lynch declined to comment on the site he visited in Woodland. The company is eyeing eight or nine different locations in the two states.
"I'm not ready to start talking about all the various sites we've looked at," he said. "There are a lot of different factors that play into where we like to locate these facilities."
The tribe, Barnett said, has begun its own due diligence process, as has ISC. Barnett said he hopes to meet again with ISC representatives in the next few weeks.
Barnett said financing has not been discussed. But Lynch said the company looks to fund such projects through a public/private partnership that typically includes a voter-approved bond.
Barnett was vague when asked about the content of the ISC meetings, noting that they centered on "opportunities for bringing an ISC track to Washington." When pressed further about the content, Barnett simply said, "They are literally combing Washington and Oregon, gauging community support."
The tribal council voted March 6 to officially pursue the speedway opportunity.
The sheer size of the track dictates that it be located outdoors.
"Obviously the window of opportunity to operate is somewhat compressed compared to our other facilities because of the weather," Lynch said. "But we think it's a workable solution."
RAILROAD TUSSLES OVER INSURANCE
Heidi Wallenborn, news director
Battle Ground-Yacolt-Chelatchie Prairie Railroad (BYCX) volunteers have balked at a request to insure operations for $10 million. Currently, they are covered for $4 million.
Eric Temple of Columbia Basin Railway, new leasee of the 33-mile Clark County-owned railroad, renamed the Portland-Vancouver Junction Railroad (PVJRR), said the higher amount is standard and that's what he requires from the group if they want to run a tourist train on the north end of the line.
Temple has a $5 million policy to run freight on the south line. When the line begins to carry passengers, he will have $10 million in coverage, said Railroad Advisory Board committee member Terri Tweedell.
Under the $4 million umbrella, the volunteer group pays about $13,000 yearly. With a $10 million policy, the annual payment jumps to $31,500--a difference of $18,000, Tweedell said.
The Board met on March 14 with BYCX members, Dave Gray representing Eric Temple, and Temple on the telephone for a conference call. The Board makes recommendations to County commissioners.
"I know the BYCX committee met with [commissioner] Marc Boldt to discuss how to get them through this process," said Dan Weaver, chairman. "I understand there's a hangup on the insurance."
Jim Styres, a BYCX volunteer, said the group is frustrated. They are not allowed to work on the tracks to be ready for the summer season, and now the issue over insurance has come up.
"We're thinking about pulling the stuff off the line, that we're just wasting money," Styres said. "We're not doing anything right now and we're still paying the premium."
Temple said that he is not comfortable letting anyone move equipment with only $4 million in insurance.
Tweedell asked him if the group could at least work on the tracks.
"It makes me queasy," Temple said. "I'll think about it. My initial response is someone maintaining the track for us makes me uncomfortable. It seems odd."
Tweedell said she is "extremely concerned" that if the BYCX "closes up shop and sells their equipment" that it wouldn't be good for the County, Battle Ground or PVJRR as far as image, losing tax money and what it would do to the community who enjoy scenic train rides on the north line.
"It's important to keep this tourist group going so when the dinner train comes [customers] will know there is a tourist train available," she said.
Weaver suggested that the County could indemnify the volunteer group of $5 million or subsidize them to come up with the extra cash.
Tweedell said she checked with other insurance brokers and found that shortline railroads are not required to carry policies over $5 million if the speed is 10 miles per hour or less with passengers and they do not sell food.
Temple said he thought that odd, because the liability is the same.
"It doesn't cost any less to kill someone going 10 miles per hour or 25," he said.
Contract stalled
Part of the holdup on writing a contract is that Temple is still waiting for information from BYCX that he asked for, he said.
"I need a point person," Temple said. "I'm having trouble with BYCX communication and getting information from them."
More than a year ago Temple asked for a list of all volunteers such as the qualified engineer, conductor and track inspector who work on the line, so he knows who he is responsible for, he said.
Bryan Baker, spokesman for BYCX, said he didn't see how that pertained.
"It doesn't matter if you do [see] or not," Tweedell said. "Volunteers or not, this is on his property and those people are insured. Get him a list of all of them."
Baker said he would.
Another issue is that BYCX still has not submitted a draft contract for Temple to look over.
The volunteer group craft a 21-point "lease elements" document and met with Temple and Clark County commissioner Marc Boldt about it.
"We haven't heard anything back [from Temple]," Baker said. "It seemed he was not in favor of any of them. Maybe once the insurance is resolved it will open up talk."
Temple said he was waiting for them to draft a contract and get back in touch with him.
"I asked them to present something to me and I'm still waiting," he said.
Temple said he didn't see any deal breakers or anything that would prohibit getting a contract signed, but he needs a contract first.
"I'm not sure they'll get 21 out of 21," Temple said. "Present me with a contract and we'll take a look at it. The devil's in the details."
Temple said he doesn't understand why the group doesn't communicate with him.
"I urge the BYCX to come directly to me," he said. "We have a crisis today. I check my e-mail and voice mail every day, but there's not much communication with us. But they take [issues] to Boldt and other politicians instead. I wish they'd come to me."
Come back in 30 days
The group agreed to send a list of volunteers and draft a contract for Temple, then come back in 30 days.
At that time, the board will discuss a specific recommendation to the commissioners for County coffers to help the group with insurance.
"I would like to see all options looked at and potentials examined before it goes to the commissioners to underwrite or indemnify," Weaver said.
Board member Bill Ganley said negotiations should go right to the commissioners to "help expedite this process--whatever it takes needs to happen."
FAIRGROUNDS EXHIBITION HALL OPENSMarcus Brotherton, staff reporter
An enormous abode?
A jumbo dance hall?
Whatever one may call Clark County Fairgrounds' new Exhibition Center, one thing is certain--it's big.
County commissioners cut the ribbon March 16 on the colossal Center, located at the Fairgrounds, west of I-5 at the NE 179th St. exit in Ridgefield.
"This is a big change for the Fair," said commissioner Marc Boldt during opening celebrations. "It's not only that the hall is big in size, it represents a huge step forward for the Clark County tourism economy."
Essentially, the new Center is one large room with a metal ceiling and cement floor. The pillarless hall is designed to accommodate a variety of shows, banquets and events.
How large is the Center?
About 4.2 million cubic feet. That's as long as two football fields. Exhibitors can drive a semi-truck in and turn it around for large-scale installations. The ceiling is 62.2 feet high.
About 1,800 people could use the Center for a banquet, or about 2,000 as a theater.
The building can accommodate up to 530 exhibitor booths, or--if the occasion requires--more than 1,200 Volkswagen Beetles could be parked on the floor, bumper to bumper.
The room could hold 226,000 bales of hay, two million basketballs, or 31 million gallons of coffee.
It's that big.
Constructing the Center was no small project, say County officials. General contractor Hoffman Construction used 780 tons of structural steel and iron, 5,025 cubic yards of concrete, 9,000 feet of pipe and 25,000 feet of conduit. Some 62,500 feet of wire and cabling went into the structure as well as 3,000 gallons of paint.
Altogether, Hoffman representatives estimate 120,000 total worker hours were used to build it. The Center came in on time and under budget. Workers drank about 14,400 cups of coffee in the process.
Site preparation began in November 2003. Outside walls were in place by the end of July 2004. Major finishing work was completed after the roof was added in September 2004.
Architects Barrentine, Bates Lee designed the new Center with moveable wall systems that enable the hall to be divided into smaller rooms. Three events can take place simultaneously.
The Center has air conditioning and will be used during the Fair week this summer for 4-H shows, photography and art exhibits and to house commercial booths, said Fair Association president John Morrison.
The $18.5 million structure is the first phase in the Fairgrounds' master plan designed to make the grounds usable all year, said County General Services Department representative Doug Johnston.
The grandstand, horse arena and a stall barn will be kept, but other buildings on site will be replaced as funds become available, Johnston said. Ball fields are also in the long-range plan for the site.
The first large-scale consumer show to book the Center is the Petersen Auction Group Collector Car Auction, who opened for business March 19.
WOODLAND FELON SENTENCED TO 19 YEARS
Heidi Wallenborn
news director
Yelling and screaming all the while, Matthew C. Davidson, 40, of Woodland, was sentenced March 17 to 19 years in prison by federal District Court judge Franklin Burgess in Tacoma.
At one point the judge had Davidson removed from the courtroom then brought back in shackles. He threatened to put duct tape over the felon's mouth if he didn't stop yelling.
Davidson was convicted Nov. 4, 2004 on charges of felon in possession of a firearm, conspiracy to obstruct justice and obstructing justice. Because this was his 12th felony conviction, Davidson was prosecuted under the federal Project Safe Neighborhood program. The program is an initiative to keep firearms out of the hands of convicted felons.
Prosecutors say Davidson is an "armed career criminal."
Other convictions were for assault, burglary, theft and possession of stolen property.
In August 2002, Davidson was arrested in Woodland for attempting to cash a forged check. When the car he was riding in was impounded, police found four guns in the trunk. At least one shotgun and one pistol belonged to Davidson, witnesses said.
In September 2002, a trial ensued, and Davidson tried to get several people to give false testimony to the grand jury that the guns did not belong to him.
In fact, Davidson was recorded in a telephone conversation telling a witness to "stick with one story"--a story he had made up at a meeting with various witnesses.
At trial, prosecutors detailed a "long and egregious history of assaultive behavior."
According to a release from the U.S. Department of Justice, Davidson's mother was forced to get a restraining order against her son after he threatened to kill her and backed her into a corner with a gun under her chin.
Andrew Friedman, assistant United States Attorney, said Davidson "has pursued a non-stop path of destruction terrorizing those around him for more than 20 years."
The case was investigated by the Woodland Police Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms.
NIGHT CAMPING TURNS UGLY FOR AREA VICTIMS
Yacolt man reportedly terrorized campers near Sunset Falls
Heidi Wallenborn, news director
A pleasant night camping out with friends on March 6 turned into a nightmare for eight people on Silver Star Mountain.
Seth Kerle, 26, 34704 NE Sunset Falls Rd., Yacolt, pleaded not guilty in Skamania County Court March 17 to first degree assault, second degree malicious mischief, hit and run and driving under the influence.
A probable cause affidavit filed by deputy prosecuting attorney Adam Kick said Kerle drove from his residence with a passenger to a forest road in Skamania County past Sunset Falls about 2 a.m. Three friends reportedly followed in a car, concerned about Kerle's state of mind and intoxicated condition, the report said.
Kerle reportedly drove through a campsite and a burning campfire before deliberately ramming his 1991 Mitsubishi Montero into a parked, occupied vehicle, pushing it forward 5 feet and at a 90-degree angle.
Kerle reportedly yelled for the occupants to "Get off my mountain!," then spun the tires on his vehicle and continued up to the trailhead.
At about 3 a.m., four people camping in two tents with a common campfire between them were reportedly awakened by the noise of Kerle's vehicle tearing up the gravel parking lot and screaming at them to "Get off my mountain!"
Kerle reportedly drove into their campfire, stopped, backed up and drove hard at one of the tents, stopping inches away.
Kerle then reportedly backed up and "took a run at" concrete barriers to the hiking trail. After the vehicle high-centered, Kerle's friends used their pickup to pull the vehicle off. Kerle then reportedly used an alternate route to continue up the trail.
While he was gone, the campers finished packing their campsite and prepared to leave, the report said. Kerle came back in about 10 minutes.
Kerle reportedly again drove his vehicle over the barrier, this time getting a flat tire, the report said. When he got out to inspect the damage, one of the victims reached in to turn the vehicle off and removed the keys.
Then the victims scrambled into their vehicle and drove away. Kerle reportedly fired two shots from a pistol at them. Later, a bullet was found lodged in a tire.
Witnesses said Kerle took a spare key out of his wallet and went on a high speed chase after the victims, the report said.
Kerle reportedly chased them about four miles before he didn't make a corner, ran off the road and rolled the vehicle.
Clark County deputy Tim Boardman arrested Kerle and detained him until Sgt. Gary Wood with the Skamania County Sheriff's Office transported him to jail.
Kerle is being held on $150,000 bail until a May 9 trial with defense attorney Jon McMullen.
HOCKINSON HIGH HAS FIRST SCHOOL EQUESTRIAN TEAM IN COUNTYMarcus Brotherton, staff reporter
Some schools offer soccer. Most offer football. Hockinson High School is the first school in Clark County to have an equestrian team.
Student interest led to the program's creation, said team sponsor and school principal Sandra Yager. Having an equestrian team also goes well with the rural makeup of the Hockinson community.
Hockinson competes in the Oregon High School Equestrian Team program, Yager said, because most of the Washington teams are located in the Seattle area, and a team must travel to compete.
Yager anticipates being able to compete in area competitions when more high school teams are formed in the area.
There are currently 100 high school teams in eight districts in the Oregon program. Hockinson competes against 14 teams within its district.
The team practices and competes throughout winter and spring months. Three main competitions are held. Competitors who qualify can compete in state championships against district winners. Winners at state can go on to nationals.
Several disciplines are offered including dressage, huntseat equitation, reining and team penning.
The Hockinson team organizes fundraisers to offset expenses, and practices in Ridgefield at a farm owned by trainer Dale Waite.
Recent placings at a District meet in Elma showed the Hockinson team holding its own.
Erich Hodges came in first in in-hand trail, Jaclyn Sprenger placed first in huntseat and first in stockseat. Kasey Kates placed second in trail. Sprenger and Hodges placed second in working pairs and the team of Hodges, Kates, Sprenger and Stacie Prentice placed first in in-hand obstacle relay.
LA CENTER CHOOSES COUNCIL MEMBERAlice Perry Linker, staff reporter
After six months on the La Center Planning Commission, Bill Birdwell has been appointed to the city council.
Birdwell replaces Richard Curtis who was elected to the state House of Representatives last fall. Curtis resigned his position on city council in February.
Birdwell, 43, ran unsuccessfully for the council two years ago. In November, he must run for a full term.
A machinist for High Tech Manufacturing in Hazel Dell, Birdwell has lived in La Center for 13 years.
"I'm interested in activities for kids in our community," he said. "Out here one of the few things we lack is something different for them to do."
Birdwell said there has been some talk about developing a skate park, something he supports.
Birdwell also supports annexing a corridor from downtown La Center to I-5.
"It's something we have to do to grow," he said.
Birdwell moved from Clarksville, TN, to Vancouver about 25 years ago. His wife, Robin, is a cook at Heritage High School. The couple have two daughters, Heather, 20, and Ashley, 18.
Moving to La Center was "a real good move for us and our kids," Birdwell said. "We found the community more involved with schools than where we were in Vancouver."
RIDGEFIELD MAN DISAPPEARS
Dwain Voeller, 44, Ridgefield, was reported missing March 9 by Clark County Sheriff deputies.
However, it appears Voeller may have returned home since then to retrieve clothing, said Sgt. Craig Hogman.
Voeller is described as 6'0", 165 lbs., blonde hair and blue eyes. His vehicle is a red 1994 Ford pickup with Washington license plate A19946D.
Voeller, who works in Seattle and commutes to Ridgefield on weekends, was last seen on Sun., Feb. 27.
A missing person report was filed March 2 by a close friend, said Hogman. None of Voeller's family, friends or co-workers have heard from him.
In the past, Voeller was known to frequent the Sunset Falls area and Indian Heaven Wilderness in Skamania County.
Voeller has no history of drug use or abuse that deputies are aware of, Hogman said.
"It looks like he just didn't want to be found," Hogman said.
BG COUNCIL SEEKS PLANNING COMMISSION MEMBERS
Want to have a say in the way Battle Ground grows?
Battle Ground city council members are looking for two peopleto fill vacant posts on the seven-member planning commission.
Volunteers must either live in the city or within the urban growth area, or own and operate a business in Battle Ground.
Members are appointed by the mayor and confirmed by council.
To apply, call Claire Warner at the City of Battle Ground, 342-5008.
COUGAR VISITS ORCHARDS
Bill Myers, staff reporter
A wandering, adult cougar raised the eyebrows of several residents March 12 in an Orchards residential neighborhood.
Sightings near homes south of Curtain Creek and north of NE 99th St. prompted startled residents to dial 911 in the morning and evening.
According to Sgt. Mike Cooke of the Clark County Sheriff's Office, the first sighting occurred at 6:30 a.m. when a woman saw a cougar in a wetlands area near her home in the 9900 block of NE 86th Ct.
Two hours later, another report came from about 2,000 feet east of the first sighting in the 9100 block of NE 101st St.
A couple said they saw a cougar on their patio. They said the large cat left their yard by leaping over a backyard fence.
Cooke said three more sightings were reported that evening. One might have been a golden Labrador, said Cooke. He said two other sightings sounded like the real thing.
In recent years, reports of cougar sightings have come to The Reflector from Battle Ground and near Hazel Dell, La Center and Yacolt. Several sightings were reported in more rural areas, including Battle Ground Lake and near Heisson.
State Department of Fish and Wildlife officials advise people who live near a cougar habitat to:
** Keep pets indoors or in secure kennels at night and never leave pet food or food scraps outside.
** Bring farm animals into enclosed sheds or barns at night.
** Closely supervise children playing outdoors, and make sure they are indoors by dusk when cougars are more active.
** Light walkways and remove heavy vegetation or landscaping near the house.
** Store garbage in secure containers so odors do not attract small animals or other wildlife. Predators follow prey.
Fish and Wildlife officials advise people to stand tall when confronting a cougar. Don't approach the animal or run. The cat's instinct is to chase.
Other advice from agency officials:
** Pick up small children.
** Never take your eyes off the cougar. Never crouch down or try to hide.
** If the animal displays aggressive behavior, shout, wave your arms and throw rocks.
** If the cougar attacks, fight back aggressively and try to stay on your feet. Cougars have been driven away by people who have fought back.
CLINIC BREAKS GROUND AT SALMON CREEK
Bill Myers, staff reporter
Officials of The Vancouver Clinic broke ground March 16 on construction of a new facility at the corner of NE 23rd Ave. and NE 139th St. in Vancouver.
Shovel-wielding notables included executive director Tom VanSweringen, doctors John Rastall, Tom Kovaric, Tracy Williams, and clinic manager Aaron Wickum.
On 10 acres east of the newly-constructed Legacy Salmon Creek Hospital, the new clinic will house practioners now in rented space at 2312 NE 129th St.
Services in Salmon Creek include family practice, dermatology, internal medicine, pediatrics and physical therapy.
The new, two-story, 91,000 square-foot facility will house a pharmacy and laboratory, and new practices in cardiology, surgery, neurology, obstetrics and gynecology, podiatry and radiology.
The building, with adjacent parking for staff and patients, will have a mall-like interior with light entering from front back and upper windows. Each of 16 modules will have a light-filled reception area off of a galleria walkway.
Construction of the new clinic is targeted for completion in April 2006.
The Vancouver Clinic is Clark County's largest multi-specialty facility.
Clinic offices are located in the Columbia Tech Center, the Physician's Pavilion at Southwest Washington Medical Center, on NE 87th Ave., Vancouver, in Battle Ground and in Salmon Creek.
HOME-SCHOOLED BG STUDENT TAKES TOP BOOKMARK PLACING
Alice Perry Linker, staff reporter
Jordan Ledbetter likes "jungle animals," and when the 6-year-old kindergarten student decided to design a bookmark, she chose a lion.
Ledbetter's lion was good enough to win her a top award in the Fort Vancouver Regional Library District's bookmark contest.
Jordan, who is home schooled and participates in Home Link through the Battle Ground School District, was one of nine students in kindergarten to eighth grade to win a top prize. She is the daughter of Jamie and Brock Ledbetter of Battle Ground.
Jamie Ledbetter said her daughter reads at a high first-grade level. Her favorite book is Dogs Rule.
A party to celebrate all Battle Ground students who participated in the contest will take place at Sat., April 16, 3 p.m., at the Battle Ground Community Library.
Similar parties will take place at all other community libraries.
Sue Vanlaanen, communications director for the library district, said 7,199 bookmark entries were submitted this year. One winner was chosen from each grade.
Copies of the winning bookmarks will be distributed to each community library.
The library district sponsors the contest every alternate year.
Other winners are Alana Watanabe, first grade, Fisher's Landing Elementary School; Trevor Murphy, second grade, Burton School; Jonica Kao, third grade, Illahee School; Miranda Lan, fourth grade, Riverview School; Julianne Johnson, fifth grade, Lacamas Heights School; Zhong (June) Chai, sixth grade, Shahala Middle School; Taylor Herbold, seventh grade, Frontier Middle School, and Alicia Fillback, eighth grade, Alki Middle School.
TROOPER DIES MYSTERIOUSLY
Heidi Wallenborn, news director
State Patrol trooper Scott Piva, 35, died at home early March 15. His wife, Danyel, discovered him early in the morning where he'd fallen asleep on the floor next to the bed, officials said.
A Medical Examiner's Office investigator said the cause of death is pending the result of several tests, but there was nothing to indicate his death was suspicious.
Tests such as toxicology, other blood work and on tissue will take about four weeks, the investigator said. Because Piva's death is high profile, "we want to get it right."
Danyel Piva called 911 when she discovered her husband unconscious and not breathing at their home in Amboy, said a Clark County Sheriff's Office release.
Deputies and the state Patrol investigated the death, although there was no evidence of foul play, the report said.
Piva had been on paid leave for about seven months, said state officials, part of that as sick leave.
Piva was scheduled to travel to Olympia the morning he died to take a fitness review and expected to begin work that afternoon, said a family friend who wished to remain anonymous.
A reservist with the National Guard, Piva was also notified that he was to be deployed to Iraq in May.
Piva, his wife and two young children lived in Battle Ground the last few years, moving to Amboy last fall.
In 2003, Piva received two awards for his work for the patrol, specifically in keeping drivers under the influence of drugs and/or alcohol off the roads.
Then-chief Ron Serpas presented Piva with the Chief's Award for Professional Excellence for work done in 2002. In the autumn he was given a public safety award by Battle Ground Silver Star Masonic Lodge members.
In presenting the award, Serpas said Piva has been consistently one of the most successful DUI arrest officers in southwest Washington.
March said he and Piva had a coach/cadet relationship stemming back six years to when March was the young man's last coach at the Academy.
"I gave the final okay to hire him," said Garvin. "I was glad to get him in the Vancouver detachment."
Piva spent a lot of time on the SR-503 traffic safety corridor from Battle Ground to Chelatchie Prairie, March said.
"Scott was well-known for his ability to find DUI and drug impaired drivers, as well as those in possession of narcotics and other serious crimes," March said. "He was a good all-around trooper. He will be sorely missed."
Piva was also nominated for 2003 Battle Ground Citizen of the Year through the Chamber of Commerce.
Born in 1969 in Mt. Shasta, CA, Piva graduated from Yreka High School in 1987. Piva attended College of the Siskyous, then entered the U.S. Army. He completed parachute training and saw action as a combat engineer in Operation Desert Storm.
After nine years of military service which included time at Fort Lewis, Piva left the Army in 1998 and entered the Patrol Academy. He received his commission in 1999.
The Battle Ground Fred Meyer store, Danyel Piva's employer, has set up an account with Bank of America under the name Piva Family Fund. Employees have collectively donated about eight weeks vacation time to Danyel as well as about $200.
For more information about the account, call 666-5100.
C-TRAN WILL TAKE COMMENTS ON BOUNDARY CUT
A plan to reduce the C-TRAN service area will be the topic of a public hearing set for Tues., March 29, 6:30 p.m., at Foster Auditorium, Clark College, 1800 E McLoughlin Blvd., Vancouver.
The plan would also reduce the areas where the C-TRAN tax is now imposed, and the area that would be included in future tax measure voting.
Under the proposed plan, bus service would be provided in and between incorporated cities of Clark County, and in the Vancouver urban growth boundary. Service would not be provided in the areas between cities.
The city limits of Battle Ground, Ridgefield, La Center and Yacolt would be connected to Vancouver via "non-service corridors." That means that such routes would operate as "closed door" or express buses, and passengers would not be able to board of disembark between cities.
In addition, C-VAN and para-transit service would end for residents outside the service boundary.
The Camas-Washougal area is contiguous to the Vancouver urban growth boundary, therefore service to Vancouver would be continuous.
Following the March 29 hearing, officials are slated to vote on the boundary change. The county commissioners will then have 30 days to veto the plan, and each incorporated city will have 60 days to withdraw from inclusion in the service boundary.
All three Clark County commissioners serve on the C-TRAN board.
After the 60 days, the service boundary plan becomes effective.
C-TRAN spokesman Scott Patterson said tax equity is one reason for the service boundary change proposal.
Patterson said some rural residents pay the C-TRAN sales tax but receive no service benefit. Service is not currently provided to the Ridgefield, La Center or Yacolt areas.
Patterson said that even if the service boundary is reduced, there is no guarantee that buses would run to La Center, Ridgefield or Yacolt.
Patterson said C-TRAN will lose some tax revenue if its sales tax of three-tenths of one cent is collected only in incorporated cities and the Vancouver urban growth boundary.
Patterson said C-TRAN staff has estimated that revenue loss at $1 million per year.
New revenue would be needed, said Patterson, to send buses to La Center, Ridgefield and Yacolt.
C-TRAN officials say the agency lost 40 percent of its funding in 2000 when the motor vehicle excise tax was repealed.
Since then, C-TRAN has made service cuts and has scheduled a fare increase for May 2005.
Voters rejected a proposal last year that would have doubled the C-TRAN portion of the sales tax.
More service cuts are contemplated for September 2005, including the elimination of several routes.
Patterson said the C-TRAN board will likely consider another ballot tax measure at a June meeting.
Bill Ganley, a Battle Ground city council member who chairs the C-TRAN board, said the proposed smaller C-TRAN boundary would focus service on urban areas.
Ganley said transit best serves urban areas, and the reduced boundaries would make the agency more efficient.
Ganley said he favors some kind of service to Ridgefield, La Center and Yacolt.
New area responds to vote pattern
If the new service boundary plan is adopted, only voters in the incorporated cities, plus the Vancouver urban growth boundary, would vote on added taxes.
Officials suggest that such a reduced voting area would improve chances of approval of the added tax.
Patterson said urban areas responded more favorably than rural residents to the tax increase rejected last November.
While the new tax gained voter approval only in some precincts in downtown Vancouver, it failed by more narrow margins inside the limits of incorporated cities than in more rural areas.
For example, voters in four precincts inside the Battle Ground city limits voted against the measure with 53-60 percent "no" votes, while voters just outside the city voted against the tax 61-67 percent.
Voters in the city of Ridgefield opposed the tax measure with a 54 percent "no" vote, while the "no" votes just outside the Ridgefield city limits ranged from 62 percent to 68 percent.
Ganley said improving the chances of voter approval of a tax increase was one reason for the reduced service boundary plan.
Ganley said he hoped to ask voters again for additional tax revenue to support C-TRAN.
Those unable to attend the March 29 public hearing are invited to send written comments to C-TRAN Boundary Public Testimony, P.O. Box 2529, Vancouver, WA 98668.
Patterson can be reached at 696-4494.
SUPPORT FOR VOLUNTEER GROUP MOUNTSChelatchie Prairie businessman Bill Kravas has added his voice to those seeking to keep the Battle Ground-Yacolt-Chelatchie Prairie Railroad volunteer group in existence.
Kravas operates a machinery business in Chelatchie Prairie and owns land surrounding the north end of the county's railroad.
Kravas contends that neither officials of Clark County nor the Columbia Basin Railroad have any legal right to cross his property to reach the railroad.
Kravas said he will allow access only under certain conditions.
Kravas is a longtime supporter of the volunteer railroad group. In addition to donating materials and supplies, Kravas has provided cranes and other heavy equipment for the group's use, and allows storage of ties, rails, cars and other equipment on his property.
At present, about five acres of Kravas' business property is being used for storage by the volunteer group.
In recent years, Kravas has donated 1,500 feet of rail, more than 1,000 ties, and other materials.
Kravas said he may close a gate to county access, and request $10 million in insurance coverage, plus road maintenance expenses and security guard costs in exchange for access.
Kravas made no such demands of the volunteer railroad group.
Steve Schulte, who manages the railroad property for Clark County, said he is not sure of the county's legal right to reach the railroad over Kravas' property. At the request of this newspaper, Schulte said he would research the matter.
A railroad car maintenance building, switching facilities and private residence exist on county property at the north end of the railroad.
Fire destroyed the roof of the maintenance building. The volunteer group, with supplies and equipment from Kravas, rebuilt the building and added electrical control panels.
The volunteer group was working to refurbish a steam engine inside the maintenance building, and could have had the engine ready by Memorial Day 2005, said Kravas.
But at present, the group has no access to the building or any other of its equipment on the county-owned, Columbia Basin-leased railroad property.
Will Cahill lives in a house on county property at the end of the railroad. Schulte said Cahill had exchanged services with the county for free use of the residential site, but no longer works for the county.
Schulte said Cahill's presence is now an issue to be resolved by Columbia Basin and Kravas.
Contract requires little
Kravas, along with Clark County commissioner Marc Boldt, have expressed concern that the county's contract with Columbia Basin Railroad contains no performance standards.
Other than moving freight cars as requested by businesses, Columbia Basin need not perform any other work, complained Kravas.
Schulte confirmed that the contract does not require Columbia Basin to take any other action, or conduct train rides or dinner trains.
Schulte said the county wanted a contract under which the county would not pay for anything. And Columbia Basin wanted longterm control.
While the county is responsible for bridge repairs, Schulte said the county got what it wanted in the contract negotiations.
Columbia Basin got longterm control--up to 90 years with renewals.
Only one paragraph in the contract deals with the volunteer train ride group. That paragraph states that Columbia Basin will attempt, in good faith, to work out an agreement with the volunteer group. Schulte said county staff would "step in at a moment's notice" if the two sides seek county help. "We would prefer that both parties work together," said Schulte. "There will be future issues."
Kravas praised the volunteer group for its years of effort. He said the group obtained grants, gained donated equipment, repaired equipment, cut trees and sold firewood, and in other ways got train rides started after years of inactivity.
"The county has done all they can to kill the American dream of volunteerism," said Kravas. "I'm going to support them (volunteer group) any way I can."
"I'm going to make it as hard as possible" for the county to force the volunteer group out, he added.
Kravas also complained that the county promised to dispose of a pile of worn-out railroad ties that are stacked on his property. The stack has been there for four years, he said.
Kravas described the train rides offered by the volunteer group as a "venture that is really worthwhile," and as an activity that an entire family can enjoy.
Jim Styres, a member of the volunteer group, said if the group is not given access to the rail line in the next two weeks, the upcoming season may be lost.
Styres spoke of the need for stability in the train ride operation, and the possibility of a museum in Yacolt as a railroad destination.
OBITS:
RUTH COOK
Ruth Anne (Lincoln) Cook, 77, died March 17, 2005 in Ridgefield.
Cook was born April 3, 1927 in Brooten, MN. She lived 42 years in Clark County, the last four in Hazel Dell. She was a registered nurse.
Cook enjoyed being with her children and grandchildren, and traveling. She was a "stealth" shopper who could sniff out a bargain anywhere, especially at Meier and Frank, family members said. She was also adept at fierce political and cultural arguments.
Cook volunteered as a caring nurse and advocate for elderly patients at Carolee's Mountain View Assisted Living facilities.
Cook was preceded in death by brothers Harold Lincoln and Daniel Lincoln, and her husband of 48 years, Ira Charles Cook.
Survivors include sons Charles Cook of Oregon and Christopher Cook of Illinois, daughters Kathleen Boulton and Kimberlee Benton, both of Oregon, brother Rodger Lincoln of Spanaway and David Lincoln of Tacoma, and 10 grandchildren.
A funeral service will be held Sat., March 26, 12:30 p.m., at Memorial Gardens Funeral Chapel, with burial at Evergreen Memorial Gardens. Vancouver Memorial Gardens is in charge of arrangements.
CAROL COGWELL
Carol Marie (Stief) Cogwell, 63, died March 14, 2005 in Yacolt.
Cogwell was born June 20, 1941 in East St. Louis, IL. She was a Clark County resident 36 years, the last 18 in Yacolt.
Cogwell was a traffic control supervisor in the construction industry. She enjoyed mowing the lawn, camping, fishing, playing dollar slots, roller skating and watching old movies.
Cogwell also enjoyed traveling by motor home, going to California, and drinking coffee. She loved her grandchildren and little dog, Mikey.
Cogwell is survived by her husband of 46 years, George Cogwell, at home, daughter Susan Matson of California, sons Greg Cogwell of Yacolt and Gary Cogwell of California, sister Imogene Lenhart of Vancouver, brothers Daniel Stief and Ron Stief, both of Ridgefield, and William Stief and John Stief, both of Vancouver, and three grandchildren.
Graveside services were held at Northwood Park Cemetery in Ridgefield with Layne's Funeral Home in charge of arrangements.
ESTHER RUDATEsther Elizabeth (Oas) Rudat, 89, died March 5, 2005, in Vancouver.
Rudat was born Jan. 25, 1916 in Oakland, CA She was a Clark County resident for 16 years, all in Battle Ground. She was a homemaker her entire life.
Rudat found joy in mentoring couples and assisting where needed. She was a member of the Battle Ground Baptist Church for 16 years. She taught children's Sunday School for 30 years before then in C&MA Church in Oakland, CA and Millbrae Baptist Church, also in California.
Rudat enjoyed gardening, collecting salt and pepper shakers and antiques, and classical hymns and music.
Rudat was preceded in death by her husband, Wes Rudat, in 1997 and a brother, Dave Oas.
Rudat is survived by son John Rudat of Battle Ground, brother Burton Oas of Vancouver, four grandchildren and two step-great grandchildren.
Memorial services were held at Battle Ground Baptist Church with private committal in Memory Memorial Park Cemetery. Layne's Funeral Home was in charge of arrangements.
ADA MUONIO
Ada E. (Junglas) Muonio, 93, died March 16, 2005, in Vancouver.
Muonio was born Oct. 30, 1911 in Rapid City, SD, and lived in Clark County for 28 years, 26 in Battle Ground.
Muonio was a lifetime member of the Old Apostolic Lutheran Church.
Muonio was preceded in death by her husband, Leonard, in 1982, and brother Albert in 2002. Survivors include sister Lillian Lobbestael of Michigan and numerous nieces and nephews.
Burial was at Elim Cemetery, Brush Prairie, with Layne's Funeral Home, Battle Ground, in charge of arrangement.s