AREA WOMAN AND SPOUSE TRAVEL TO IRAN

Heidi Wallenborn

news director

Jackie Spurlock, librarian at the Battle Ground Community Library, and her husband, Mike, have returned from two weeks in Iran.

When the Spurlocks traveled to Iran with the Peace Corps in 1974, they fell in love with the place and its people.

When their two-year stint was over, they stayed another two years.

Mike had been hired to work with German and American companies building an oil refinery, and Jackie was hired as a librarian at the University of Isfahan, the city in which they lived.

A son was born while in Iran, and when Mike's job ended, the family came back to America in March 1978--the year the Shah Ayatollah Khomeni was overthrown and the Revolution began. Wars with Iraq started shortly afterward.

However, the Spurlocks were oblivious to the goings on in Iran while they were there. Television was censored, and it was with great surprise they learned about protests and tanks in streets when they returned to America.

"A lot of friends left in the months after we did," she said.

But Iran and its people had gotten under her skin and her memories are fond ones.

So a couple of years ago, she and her husband "felt a call to go back there," she said.

"We wanted to talk about Iran and we were not up-to-date about it anymore," Spurlock said. "We wanted to talk to anyone who is interested--to groups, in conversations."

"It is a country misunderstood by Americans and little known," she continued. "Violence is portrayed, but it's not a violent country. There are no car or suicide bombers there, that doesn't happen. It's not an Arab country. Ninety-five percent are Muslim, but they are not Arabians."

The couple soon found that it is difficult to get a Visa to travel to and in Iran. American visitors must be accompanied by a guide, she said.

While searching online, Spurlock found an international human rights organization called Global Exchange. With them in charge, getting a Visa and making arrangements were easy.

So the Spurlocks traveled as "citizen diplomats" as part of a 12-person delegation of U.S. citizens June 10-23.

By connecting with community groups and meeting everyday Iranians, the Reality Tour offered an opportunity to "go beyond the media spin" to foster understanding and conversation, Spurlock said.

The tour included visits with the editor of a woman's magazine, Iran/Iraq War vets, an Islamic charity, a grand Ayatollah and a Mullah, both in high positions in the Muslim faith.

To be accepted in the country, Spurlock had to dress in legally required women's clothing. Only her face and part of her hair, hands, and feet were allowed to show.

Spurlock complied with a head scarf, long pants and tunic with long sleeves. The 90-degree heat made such garb a bit uncomfortable.

"Every day was hot, but it was not unbearable," she said. "We drank a lot of water and there were air conditioned places. We caught little breezes sometimes."

When the Shah was overthrown, the nation became a theocratic one--a government ruled by religion, in this case, the Muslims, she said. Strict rules govern the Iran people, but they do not often comply.

For example, news outside of what Iran broadcasts is forbidden, but most Iranians have satellite dishes on their homes. Drinking alcohol is not allowed, but house parties where alcohol is served are common, she said.

"Under the Shah, things were quite liberal," Spurlock said. "But now the Iran people don't like the current government, they don't like the regime. That's what they call it."

Spurlock noticed several changes on her recent visit. The country is poorer now. The Shah was modernizing and easternizing fast in the past, she said. There was no unemployment and people acquired things. But with the trade sanction between America and Iran, that's not possible.

Cities are now more beautiful with more parks and greenspaces. Isfahan, the size of Seattle or Portland, Spurlock said, is a city on a river that starts in the mountains and descends to the desert where it dries up.

Bridges are hundreds of years old. When they became too fragile for vehicular traffic, new ones were built, but the old were kept for pedestrians and beautified with shops and greenspaces.

While in Iran, the Spurlocks visited ancient mosques, surprisingly modern libraries, and a Zoroastrian fire that has been kept alive with wood by priests for 1,500 years. That religion was Iran's original, ancient one before the country was conquered by Muslims, Spurlock said.

The couple found and visited an old neighbor. The talent to speak the Farsi language came back with use, and they were able to connect with several Iranians, she said.

But she noticed that one thing had not changed.

"They want to know what it's like in America," Spurlock said. "They talk to Americans and love Americans. The children are adorable, people are warm, kind and friendly."

One image will forever stay in Spurlock's mind. There was a woman wearing the traditional religious clothing of Muslim women. She was standing quietly in a bazaar.

"She said `Welcome to our country, God bless you,'" Spurlock said. "It just touched me. Because she is so traditional and religious made it even more touching."

The Spurlocks returned home with a renewed commitment to peace. Never at any time did they feel the "slightest, tiniest fear of being unsafe," she said.

"Iran is not a country that should be considered as having a war with," Spurlock said. "We've rededicated ourselves to peace."

MAN DROWNS IN BG LAKE

Ivan Vorobets, 19, drowned July 22 at Battle Ground Lake.

According to Clark County sheriff's deputy Craig Hogman, people near the designated swim area at the lake noticed Vorobets struggling in the water about 100 yards from the shore.

Several swimmers dove into the water and a woman in an inflatable boat rowed to the area and attempted to pull the swimmer into the boat. The man was reportedly too heavy and the woman was not able to get a good hold on the man.

The man slipped under the surface.

Swimmers reached the area and dove down in an attempt to rescue Vorobets.

Rescue personnel from Fire District 3, American Ambulance, the Clark County sheriff's office, and Southwest Washington Organization of Rescue Divers all responded.

Fire District 3 used a depth finder to locate Vorobets; divers recovered the body.

Family members said they were at Battle Ground Lake for a picnic with church members. They said Vorobets was a fairly strong swimmer.

Hogman had withheld Vorobets' name until his parents, who were visiting other family members in the Ukraine, could be notified.

Hogman encouraged people to swim in the designated swim area at the lake. The popular lake, located about three miles northeast of Battle Ground, has no lifeguards.

Hogman concluded the drowning to be accidental.

Irby's Fine Wine & Bistro, a popular Battle Ground eatery, has closed for remodeling.

Owner Steve Irby said the business has outgrown its kitchen facilities. The remodeling work could take three weeks, said Irby.

"When we began the restaurant in May 2003, we transformed a shabby, vintage building in Old Town into a comfortable dining space," said Irby. "Now the kitchen is simply too small, too outdated and cannot keep up with the fine dining menu we serve."

Irby said the work will include a conversion from electricity to gas, installation of a new 6-burner stove and a new hood system, addition of a saute station, and new ovens. "We hope to minimize the time it takes to complete the work," said Irby, "and look forward to serving the community as soon as possible."

Irby's is located at 801 E Main St., Battle Ground.

FOX WANTS PUBLIC HEARING

Takes issue with claims by chief of police

Bill Myers

staff reporter

Ridgefield city manager George Fox, in response to a Ridgefield resolution removing him from employment, wants a public hearing.

State law provides that a city manager may request a public hearing within 30 days of a removal resolution.

Vancouver attorney Donald Greig requested a hearing on behalf of Fox in a letter delivered to the City July 18.

Greig said had Fox failed to request a hearing, it could have signaled that he agrees with allegations in the City's resolution. There is no such agreement, he said.

Fox was placed on paid leave on Dec. 1, 2005, pending an investigation of allegations that he fired a police officer because of race. The city council approved a removal resolution June 22.

In the request for a hearing, Fox said a Clark County Superior Court, while eliminating a four-year term provision in Fox's contract, ordered that further disputes be settled by arbitration provisions contained in the contract.

Attorneys representing Ridgefield intend to appeal the Superior Court ruling, arguing that the court should rule that the contract is invalid.

In the letter requesting a hearing, Fox denied all allegations by the City.

He denied that private contributions to the City by developers created a policy or appearance of a policy of favoritism.

Fox denied violating former African-American police officer Carl Mealing's civil rights and said his action to terminate the officer followed a reasonable inquiry into complaints of inappropriate conduct by Mealing.

The termination of the officer, said Fox in the letter, was handled in the best interest of the City, to protect the City from potential claims and liability.

Fox denied misrepresenting personal or professional qualifications and having relationships that created potential conflicts of interest in his position as city manager.

Fox denied that over-budget expenditures placed the City at financial risk and said council members were kept informed of City finances. He also denied violating city policies in conducting personal business.

In the letter, Fox denied that he failed to effectively manage the Ridgefield Police Department. He said his suspension prevented him from completing an outside independent investigation of the Department and taking other appropriate actions.

Fox denies he delayed police report

Fox denied telling chief of police Bruce Hall to delay a police report containing allegations about city council member Scott Hanson stemming from a July 19 report by a Ridgefield couple.

At the time, Hanson was a city council appointee campaigning to retain his city council post in the November election.

On that date, the couple reported to Hall, on duty at the police station, that they saw Hanson driving erratically. The couple said they followed Hanson to his home where he appeared to be intoxicated.

Hall said he went to Hanson's home but could not find the council member.

Hall said in a July 2 declaration taken by city attorney Michael Wynne that he discussed the incident with Fox the next morning.

Hall said Fox asked for names and political affiliations of the witnesses. He said Fox asked him to "hold off" writing a report and to gather information about other cases involving reports of erratic driving.

Hall said he was informed by Fox that Hanson was in Oregon at a drug and alcohol treatment center and could be seen only by family members.

According to Hall, Fox asked over the next couple of days to see the report and statements from the reporting parties. Hall said he provided Fox with a face sheet and narrative, but not transcripts of statements which were still being typed.

Hall said he was contacted in late August by Fox who asked again about the driving incident. Hall said he told Fox that a possible charge by the prosecutor could be a criminal charge of reckless driving.

Hall said that Fox directed him to not take further action on the case unless Fox told him to proceed. Hall said he was in fear of losing his job, and put the case report in a pile of active cases to await direction from Fox.

In Hall's statement, he said that on or about Oct. 31, 2005, he advised the city attorney that Fox had ordered him to delay completing a report on the Hanson incident.

Hall said Wynne agreed to contact city prosecutor Chris Sundstrum, and get back to him. Hall said he believes that Wynne called about a week later and told him to file the report immediately.

Wynne, in a recent interview, said he and Oregon attorney John Stewart urged Hall to file the report immediately when they first learned of the incident.

A reckless driving charge was filed against Hanson on Election Day, Nov. 8, 2005. Hanson won in a close race.

On Jan. 12, in Ridgefield Municipal Court, the charge was reduced in a plea bargain to negligent operation of a vehicle, 2nd degree, a non-criminal violation.

Hanson, who provided proof that he paid $5,572 on July 20 to an Oregon rehabilitation facility, was fined $500.

Fox, interviewed July 20, denied that he asked Hall about the political affiliations of witnesses. He said Hall's contention that Fox ordered him not to take further action is "crap."

Fox said he told Hall to treat Hanson like any other citizen.

Fox said he asked Hall about police processes when motorists complain about another driver. He said Hall said two out of three such situations just go away.

Fox said he did not follow up with Hall on the incident. Fox said he viewed the incident as minor compared to "big picture things" such as building a city staff and structure to handle the growth of Ridgefield.

Fox said he and Hanson are friends and that in April 2005 he started helping Hanson to properly set up some business ventures. Fox said he was paid hourly for some work, with other work to result in "back end" payments to him which never materialized.

Fox said he drove with Hanson's wife to the Oregon rehab center and visited Hanson about a week after the alleged driving incident.

Fox said he told Hanson that he (Hansen) needed to talk with Hall and "take whatever lumps he might have to take."

Fox said Hanson talked about possibly resigning his city council position. "I told him that whatever he decided, I was his friend," said Fox.

In an interview earlier this month, Hanson said he had decided to get treatment for substance abuse before the July 19 incident. "I've been an alcoholic since the 1980s when I lived in Alaska," he said.

Hanson said the timing of his treatment, starting July 20, the day after citizens complained about his driving, "looks terrible."

Hanson said he had driven home from Chehalis on July 19 and did not deny drinking. He said he had consumed drinks before leaving Chehalis, but did not think he was impaired.

"It was no mystery that I had started drinking again," said Hanson. He said family, friends and church associates knew about his habit.

Hanson said he told Hall after he left the treatment facility to treat him as he would anyone else in the same situation.

Hanson said his attorney advised him to fight the ticket in court. "He said I would win, but I decided to accept the ticket and pay the costs," said Hanson.

"I'm a stand up guy who pays for his mistakes," said Hanson.

Hanson said he and Fox are on good terms but no longer have business relationships.

Police sergeant suspended

Paid leaves and investigations continue to plague Ridgefield.

Interim city manager Justin Clary said July 18 that police sergeant Randy Ostrander was placed on paid administrative leave pending completion of an Internal Affairs investigation. Clary said he could not provide more details.

Hall, placed on paid leave May 18 pending an investigation of police department management, remains on leave.

Hearing date uncertain

Greig said no date has been set for his client's public hearing. He said he will discuss a date and procedures for a hearing soon with Wynne and Stewart.

A consideration for setting a date will be Fox's health. Greig said Fox's health is being affected by the stress.

Alice Perry Linker

staff reporter

The Woodland City Council has postponed action on a request to annex 43 acres of industrial reserve land.

During a July 17 meeting, council member Jim Tone questioned the need for additional industrial land.

"If we're starting to move into our reserves, that's one thing," Tone said. "If we don't need industrial land, why should we annex? If we still have industrial land inside the city, why would we want to make changes?"

Acting public works director Jim Hough indicated that requests may come to change the zoning for some existing industrial land.

"There are others who may petition for a zone change which may reduce the industrial land," he said. "It may be industrial; it may be commercial."

The properties proposed for annexation, owned by Calvin and Marilyn Dickerson and Curt Sorenson, lie north of Guild Road and east of Robinson Road. A portion of the property is adjacent to Kelly Industrial Park. Berry crops are planted on part of the land.

Marilyn Dickerson said in an interview that there are no specific plans for the land after it is annexed.

"We're just in the process of annexation," she said. "We have made no decisions on what we'll do."

Alan Engstrom, who represents the landowners, told the council that the property would be annexed as industrial reserve.

Engstrom said that after the land is annexed, "you may see an application for an industrial flex zone."

A zone change would require a change in the city's comprehensive plan.

Council member Erica Rainford said additional land could provide an opportunity for a large manufacturer.

"If they do a comp plan change, we have the control to approve or deny," she said.

The Port of Woodland plans to widen Guild Road, said Dave Ripp, port director. The project is in the design phase and construction is expected in either 2007 or 2008, he said.

The city's planning commission had recommended approval of the annexation proposal, but council members said they had not received minutes from the public hearing. They decided to delay further discussion until after the minutes are received.

If the council approves the annexation, the matter will go to the Cowlitz County Boundary Board.

Alice Perry Linker

staff reporter

Creating public art for cities is not new to sculptor Bill McCown, who has designed and will build a piece for the Woodland's Hoffman Plaza.

McCown, who has been creating bronzes "pretty much forever," works out of his home studio in Kalama.

He will build a sculpture that will use light and water to give the illusion of a steamboat moving upriver.

The boat, "Mascot, Queen of the Fleet," will appear to be moving out of rock. Water will cascade beside the boat, which will seem to be afloat.

The piece will be lighted from behind, illuminating the cabin's hollow interior through the windows and giving the illusion of a "floating on light," McCown said.

"We'll probably finish it in some greenish tones," he said.

"We're really excited to have Bill McCown do this sculpture," said Joy Haasl of the Woodland Downtown Revitalization Committee, organizers of the sculpture.

The committee commissioned McCown to do the art piece for the Woodland Centennial.

Before "The Mascot" can be placed, the downtown committee must raise about $45,000, Haasl said. Marie Heermann of Woodland has donated $5,000.

All who give $1,000 or more will have their names placed on a sponsor plaque next to "the Mascot."

McCown does all the preliminary and finish work for his bronze artwork. At one time he had a foundry in Kelso, but his home and foundry were destroyed in the Alder Crest landslide of the late 1990s, and he moved to Kalama.

His sculptured art stand at the U.S. Air Force Academy at Colorado Spring, CO, and in the Yakama Nation Cultural Heritage Center in Toppenish.

"I used to show through galleries," McCown said. "Now I market through the Internet or do commission pieces."

McCown is working on a series of life-sized figures from The Last Supper. He plans to sculpt 13 figures.

McCown said he enjoys working with public art projects.

"When you do a project like this, it's a civic duty-type thing," he said. "I also like the historical part of it."

Haasl said the committee is also accepting in-kind donations, such as excavation, concrete work, plumbing and wiring.

For information about in-kind donations, call Haasl at 360-225-2139.

Donations may be mailed to DWR/Centennial Art feature, P.O. Box 1041, Woodland 98674.

CENTENNIAL MEMORABILIA NOT SELLING WELL

Alice Perry Linker

staff reporter

Sales of Woodland Centennial memorabilia are lagging several thousand dollars behind the Centennial Committee's expectations.

The committee budgeted income from memorabilia sales at $35,500, but the centennial financial report shows that as of mid-July, only $3,000 had been generated.

Other sources of revenue include ticket sales for the Centennial gala, sponsors and the city's general fund.

Ticket sales for the gala came in at $9,075, slightly under the $9,125 budgeted, but sponsors donated $11,709, $3,800 over budget.

Centennial coordinator Mari Ripp said the Centennial committee has a deficit of $18,588.

Walnut plaques centered with the centennial coin are priced at $100, but only a few have been sold.

"We thought there would be more interest in the plaques by businesses," Ripp reported to the Woodland City Council on July 17.

The costs of the centennial celebration have been covered by money from the city's general fund, but the city has committed only $8,000.

"We need to repay the city," Ripp said. "We need to reimburse the general fund."

The city council asked Ripp to prepare a financial report. Council members have said that the city should not be responsible for the cost of the centennial celebration.

The bronze memorial coins and story card in a collector's plastic capsule sell for $35, bronze key tags featuring the centennial logo and steamboat are priced at $17, and etched wine glasses are $5 each or two for $9. All are on sale at the Chamber of Commerce Tourist Information Center, 900 Goerig St., and at the City Hall Annex, 230 Davidson St.

Throw blankets and t-shirts with the Centennial logo are being sold as a fundraiser for the Woodland Community Service Center, site of the food bank.

"The centennial committee generously allowed us to use the logo," said Sheri Monge, development and public relations director for the service center. "We believe we'll earn about $1,500 if we sell everything."

The service center is not part of the centennial committee.

The woven blankets sell for $60, and t-shirts in hunter green or gray sell for $10, child's size; $15, small-extra large; and $20, 2X-6X.

Blankets and t-shirts are available at the Tourist Information Center or the Woodland Community Service Center, 736 Davidson St.

For information about memorabilia, call Ripp, 225-8281.

PLANNERS HOST OPEN HOUSE ON 219TH ST. EXTENSION

Bill Myers

staff reporter

Clark County long range planners heard citizens July 13 weigh in on a proposed westerly extension of NW 219th St. in Ridgefield.

Planners provided handouts, including a map showing the general route of a future NW 219th St. that would take westbound traffic beyond I-5 to Hillhurst Rd.

Officials of the state Department of Transportation have started buying rights-of-way on the east side of I-5 to construct a new interchange at 219th St. The new interchange would service only traffic to and from areas east of I-5.

Officials of the City of Ridgefield and Port of Ridgefield in March 2006 asked the Board of Clark County Commissioners to add an extension of NW 219th St. west of I-5 to the county's 20-year road plan.

Port officials say an extension of 219th St. from the planned new interchange to the vicinity of NW 31st/Hillhurst Rd. would

** Provide an arterial between Ridgefield and Battle Ground,

** Lessen traffic pressure--and delay or eliminate a future need for additional lanes along the I-5 corridor between the new 219th St. interchange and the Pioneer St (SR-501) interchange,

** Provide significant long-term relief to the SR-501/Pioneer St. corridor, especially at the I-5 junction,

** Provide an alternate route for residents living west of I-5 during events at the Clark County Amphitheater, and

** Provide a more direct travel route for residents of Ridgefield and rural areas.

County long range planner Mike Mabrey said it is likely to be 10 or more years before construction takes place, but citizen comments about the proposed extension are welcome.

Mabrey can be reached at 397-2375, ext. 4343, and at michael.mabrey@clark.wa.gov.

K-PARK RENOVATIONS TO END IN SEPTEMBER

Heidi Wallenborn

news director

Kiwanis Park has been closed since late April, but renovations currently underway may make the wait until re-opening in September worth it.

The $1.2 million project will be paid for with Park Impact Fees and a Real Estate Excise Tax which comes from one-fourth of one percent of the tax on property sales.

The project is improving the 8-acre site situated between SW 4th St. on the north and SW 6th St. on the south, and bordered by SW 2nd Ave. on the east and Battle Ground Mobile Estates on the west.

Along with new restrooms, the park will receive an additional paved path on the northeast section, paved path loop around the park with lighting, concrete surfacing north of the play area, re-graded field with a sprinkler system, additional landscaping, security lighting near the parking lot and Kiwanis building, and frontage improvements along the south side of SW 4th St.

New structures include a remodeled play area and new play structures, more picnic benches and barbecues, a climbing boulder, an extra basketball court, informal sports fields, and a water mister.

The design for a second K-8 campus in Battle Ground was approved July 18 by Battle Ground school board members.

According to representatives of LSW Architects, the school will be finished by August 2008 with an estimated cost of $23.1 million, paid for with a voter-approved bond.

The campus will consist of three buildings with a total of about 119,500 square feet. One building will house grades K-4 and preschool students, another grades 5-8, and a third will be a commons building.

The K-4 building will be two levels with 16 classrooms, four alternate classrooms, two classrooms for kindergarten, and a pre-school room. It will also house administration offices and conference rooms.

The grades 5-8 building will consist of 12 classrooms, three alternate classrooms, four science and math classrooms, one life skills room, and administrative and conference rooms.

The commons area will be central to the other buildings and accessible from both. It will feature a cafeteria, presentation space, tech and media centers for all grades, two gyms and locker rooms. It will also house choir, band and drama rooms.

During the board meeting, members also approved a new cafeteria design for Laurin Middle School. The $1.4 million project will be about 8,000 square feet and house about 700 students in four grades. Completion date is March 2008.

For more information, call Kelly O'Brien at 904-1233.

BG SEEKS IDEAS FOR MAIN STREET DISTRICT

Heidi Wallenborn

news director

While the west end of Battle Ground grows with newer buildings, sidewalks and street-side landscaping, it could be said the central area is looking a bit worn.

Battle Ground city council members have approved creating a Central Main Street District that will enhance pedestrian, traffic and bicycle travel, and dress up that part of the city.

"The idea is that right now, transportation-wise, it's awkward," said assistant city planner Robert Maul. "We want to make it more friendly and dress it up with planters, new sidewalks and trees."

Public input is sought at an open house set for Thurs., Aug. 3, 2006, 4-7 p.m., at city hall in the council chambers on the second floor.

The area is identified as between SR-503 on the west and Parkway Ave. on the east, north to Onsdorff Blvd. and south to Rasmussen Blvd.

"Right now we're soliciting public input," Maul said. "The consultant will have a rough cut of suggestions at the open house."

Currently, the central area has high volumes of traffic with more than 12,000 vehicle trips per day, according to a project description. There are several intersections and driveways with limited pedestrian and bicycle facilities.

One trouble area the report states is that school campuses are in the corridor where nearly 5,000 students attend. This contributes to high levels of traffic congestion when school begins and ends. In addition, students look for free parking on limited off-street areas.

Some proposed objectives are:

** Strengthen the area as a center for civic activity, professional services, and retail;

** Revitalize and make Main St. from Parkway to SR-503 a more pedestrian oriented, economically vibrant and environmentally sustainable main street;

** Develop a plan that balances competing travel demands for Main Street, including through traffic, local circulation, transit, school buses, trucks, pedestrians, and bicycles consistent with regional and local plans;

** Develop a plan that supports a safe, convenient, and attractive pedestrian environment;

** Create enhanced amenities at commercial nodes that contribute to activity and vitality on Main Street, incorporate main street characteristics such as wider sidewalks, on-street parking, street trees, buildings that face the street at pedestrian scale and design, supports mixed-use development, and provides places for small businesses to thrive and grow;

** Develop more retail and mixed-use residential development within the corridor; and

** Identify opportunities and ideas for redevelopment of under-utilized properties.

City officials envision the Central Main Street Corridor to be economically vibrant and sustainable in the next 20 years, with a community center and gathering place such as a plaza for activities, and art and quality design incorporated.

The open house is to hear from community members and business owners about current trouble spots and transportation corridors, and what the public wants the design to look like.

Rough draft maps will be available at the meeting.

For more information, contact Robert Maul at 342-5042 or

Robert.maul@ci.battle-ground.wa.us (address uses hyphen).

Heidi Wallenborn

news director

As the first phase of a skateboard park is ready to get underway, officials of the city of Battle Ground are making plans to build a Sports Complex for displaced Little League players.

Phase one of the renovation of Fairgrounds Park will only displace one field on the southwest corner of the play area, but phase two, set for construction in fall 2008, will eliminate the ball fields entirely.

As a result, city council members have approved spending $4-$5 million on a Sports Complex on 20 acres of the 80-acre Remy Park property on SW 20th Ave.

With construction slated to begin in spring 2008, the park will feature between five and seven ball fields ranging from pee-wee to tournament size with all support amenities, restrooms, a concession stand and maintenance building, playground structure, parking, frontage road improvements, and park furniture.

The remaining 60 acres will be developed into a wetland mitigation bank/natural preserve with walking trails and interpretive stations.

In a letter to the community, mayor John Idsinga said the city will try to schedule construction in a way that minimizes impacts to current facilities and those who use them.

"It is our goal to build the most improvements for the community within our budget, and seasonal factors, such as it's more expensive to build in winter than summer, and other capital projects contribute to project costs and timing," he wrote.

"City [council members and staff] are committed to making our community a better place to live, work and play, and are equally committed to doing so in a way that disrupts the community the least possible," he wrote. "We thank you in advance for your patience and assistance as we invest to serve you better."

A final design has not been sent to council members for approval, but plans are to send one by the end of this year, said Adrienne DeDona, city spokesperson.

On July 17, council members approved securing a bond for $6.9 million to finance phase one and the design of phase two of the Fairgrounds renovations, and for the design and construction of the Sports Complex.

The bond will be repaid with park impact fees and Real Estate Excise taxes, along with other available resources.

Igor Chkalov, son of the famous transpolar pilot Valery Chkalov, died of lung cancer July 10, 2006, at age 78.

Chkalov was nine years old when his father and two other Russian pilots landed their single-engine ANT-25 in Vancouver on June 20, 1937, after a 63-hour, non-stop flight over the North Pole from Moscow.

The event put Vancouver on the world's spotlight for several days.

Igor Valerievich Chkalov wanted the world to remember his father.

He came to Vancouver in 1975 when a citizen's group erected a monument to honor the three pilots--reportedly the only monument on American soil honoring Russians. He returned to Vancouver several times to attend events marking the anniversary of the 1937 flight.

Chkalov quoted from a speech his father have given from the balcony of the General Marshall house in 1937:

"There are two rivers, the Columbia and Volga, which are found on different continents, have different dispositions and characters, and whose shores are enclosed by dissimilar mountains and forests. They flow on one and the same planet, however, not troubling one another; and, in the final analysis, turn out to be elements of the same world ocean.

"And so must the peoples of Russia and the U.S. live on the same globe peacefully and will cooperative effort decorate this ocean of human life."

Chkalov spent the last 31 years of his life promoting the goal of understanding between the U.S. and Russian people. Through his efforts, Vancouver received visits from Russian mayors, governors, generals and cosmonauts.

Similarly, Vancouver citizens have been received in Russia with official receptions, entertainments, banquets and respect. Vancouver delegations have been shown on Russian national television.

In 2002, Vancouver mayor Royce Pollard presented Igor Chkalov a certificate making him an honorary citizen of Vancouver, an occasion in which Chkalov took pride.

Chkalov was buried in Novodevichi Cemetery on July 15, 2006, beside his mother and not far from where his father is buried at the Kremlin wall. Others buried in the Novodevichi Cemetery include composers Shostakovich and Scriabin, and former leaders Khrushchev and Gromyko, and Stalin's wife, Nadezhda.

Jess Frost, a member of the Valery P. Chkalov Cultural Exchange Committee, described Igor Chkalov as the "bigger-than-life" son of the world famous pilot Valery Chkalov."

Frost served as interpreter and host during Chkalov's 2002 visit.

"We all owe Igor a debt of gratitude and a promise to remember his huge contributions," said Frost. "He worked hard to break through the prejudices of the Cold War and build mutual respect and affection between our two peoples and nations. Igor loved Vancouver; he will be sorely missed."

Chkalov served as a colonel in the Russian Air Force and helped design the MIG 29.

Chkalov is survived by his wife, Irina, sons Valery, about 45, and Alexander, 12, and sisters Valeria and Olga, all of Moscow.

Frost said planning is underway to mark the 70th anniversary of the historic flight with a program in summer 2007.

WORK TO BEGIN ON FIRE DISTRICT 11 STATION

In about five months, Fire District 11's station 2 will more than double in size.

Fire District 11 has awarded a $749,500 contract to Rehfeldt Construction of Vancouver for the work, which will add 3,500 square feet of space plus expanded parking to the station, located at 29800 NE 112th Ave., Battle Ground.

The existing station, built in 1976, consists of about 1,480 square feet.

The addition will provide sleeping quarters for three firefighters and two volunteers, a work out room, laundry, library, day room, kitchen/dining room, and office.

The addition will also provide for storage, new toilets and utilities.

An existing sleeping quarters, toilet and shower will be removed.

An expanded parking lot is also in the plan with a total of xxxx square feet of asphalt.

Clark County planner Brent Davis said the project plan includes a 50-foot wetland buffer along a creek that crosses the northwest corner of the property, plus a 25-foot setback from the buffer.

A new septic tank and pump system will be constructed along the south edge of the property. The existing tank and drainfield will be abandoned. The existing tank is within the 25-foot setback area.

When completed, the station will be nearly 5,000 square feet in size, according to District 11 chief Dennis Mason, on the 200-ft. by 300-ft. parcel of land.

Mason said the District received five bids on the construction project, ranging to $899,400. Rehfeldt Construction was the low bidder, said Mason. Architect Karl Johansson of Johansson Architecture, PC designed the fire station addition and had estimated the project at $680,000.

Mason said District voters approved an increase in property taxes in 2004 of about 17 cents per $1,000 of assessed valuation. The 17 cents raised about $130,000 in the first year, said Mason. That amount will increase about 2% annually, he said.

The District will borrow the money to expand Station 2, said Mason, and pay it back over 20 years with tax proceeds.

Mason said the new addition could be completed in five months.

MCLOUGHLIN MEDICAL FACILITY SOLD, WILL CLOSE

Family Physicians Group has acquired McLoughlin Family Practice and will consolidate services in Fisher's Landing and Salmon Creek.

The three offices of McLoughlin Family Practice in Battle Ground, Fisher's Landing and near Southwest Washington Medical Center in Vancouver will be closed.

Nine of the 10 current medical providers with McLoughlin Family Practice will join Family Physicians Group.

"We are pleased to welcome the talented team of physicians, providers and staff from McLoughlin Family Practice," said Mark Magistrale, administrator of Family Practice Group. "Our growing team is excited to be partnering with these established community providers as we strive to secure and expand primary care access in our community."

Joseph Badolato, DO, Sachin Mody, MD, and Joan Nelson, a physician's assistant, will move from McLoughlin's Battle Ground office at 720 W Main St. to the Family Physician Group office at 2525 NE 139th St., Suite 260, Vancouver.

The change will be made in early August, officials said.

McLoughlin Family Practice was established in 1972.

Family Physicians Group is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Southwest Washington Health System, the parent company of Southwest Washington Medical Center.

With 24 physicians and eight physicians' assistants, Family Physicians Group is considered the second largest physicians practice in Clark County behind The Vancouver Clinic.

Magistrale said Family Physicians Group may return to Battle Ground in the future.

"We hope to expand back into the Battle Ground market and other areas of the county as soon as it's feasible," said Magistrale.

Joe Kortum, who heads the parent Southwest Washington Health System, said the current office of McLoughlin Family Practice in Battle Ground is inefficient and not well located. He said a better location and better building would be needed for the medical clinic to be successful.

Kortum said the Family Physicians Group will need time to integrate McLoughlin physicians into their offices and consolidate medical records.

"The Physicians Group wants to be in Battle Ground," said Kortum. "That's clearly part of the longterm plan."

"McLoughlin was not in a good way financially," said Kortum. A return to financial health requires spreading fixed costs and operating efficiently, he said.

Kortum said primary care practices need to be part of a larger infrastructure.

With the acquisition of McLoughlin, said Kortum, the Family Physicians Group has too many offices with too few physicians. "It's in nobody's interest for the Physicians Group to struggle financially," said Kortum of the office closures.

Closure of McLoughlin Family Practice offices is expected to begin in early August. Patients will be referred to the nearest Family Physicians Group office or to the office where their physician will practice.

Family Physicians Group specializes in family practice, obstetrical care and internal medicine.

Information is available from Ken Cole, 514-3066, and Steve Kuyatt, 514-3519.

A "Back on Track" special set for Sat., July 29, will open the delayed and limited season of rides aboard the Chelatchie Prairie Railroad.

Bryan Baker, president of the volunteer Battle Ground, Yacolt and Chelatchie Prairie Railroad group, said the 2006 schedule will include monthly special events through October, plus Christmas tree trains in December.

Reservations are recommended for all rides, except opening day July 29. Reservations are required for some outings.

Here is this year's schedule of rides. All rides will begin at the Yacolt station.

Sat., July 29

Rides are slated for 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. on Sat., July 29, billed as "Back on Track."

The train will travel from Yacolt to Basket Flats with a stop at Moulton Falls. The 1 1/2 hour round-trip includes a trip through a 300-foot tunnel and time for a walk at the falls.

For these trips only, cold soda and water will be provided.

Prices are $12 adults, $11 seniors, $8 ages 5-12 and $6 ages 2 and up.

Sat., Aug. 19

A train robbery event, with horses, outlaws, guns and a timber company payroll, is set for Sat., Aug. 19, with runs leaving Yacolt at 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. A Texas-style barbecue is planned for the 2 p.m. outing, with chicken, brisket, beans, coleslaw, potato salad, dessert and drink.

Prices for the 11 a.m. (no barbecue) run are $15 adults, $14 seniors, $10 youths and $8 children ages 2 and up. Prices at 2 p.m. will be $32 adults, $31 seniors, $20 youths and $10 children ages 2 and up. Children will have hotdogs instead of chicken.

Reservations are required for the train robberies and must be prepaid.

Sat., Sept. 23

Autumn color and fall foliage will be on the agenda Sat., Sept. 23, with runs at 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. Hot cider on board.

Prices are $12 adults, $11 seniors, $8 youths and $6 children ages 2 and up.

Sat.-Sun., Oct. 28-29

"The Headless Horseman is haunting Moulton Falls."

This special Halloween event features horses, a scary tunnel, and old-fashioned games for children at Moulton Falls Park.

Apple bobbing, candy-filled haystack, and ring toss are planned, along with complimentary coffee, hot chocolate and cider.

Rides will be at 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. both days.

Prices are $15 adults, $14 seniors, $10 youths, and $8 children ages 2 and up. Reservations are suggested.

Christmas tree trains

Christmas tree trains will run Sat.-Sun., Dec. 2-3, 9-10 and 16-17, leaving Yacolt at times yet to be determined.

At Moulton Falls, riders will find Santa with a gift for each child, complimentary beverages, and Douglas Fir and Noble fir trees. Prices have yet to be determined. Reservations are required and must be prepaid.

Baker said the 2006 schedule is limited due, in part, to the late start, caused by delays in gaining access to the track through Clark County, and to an insufficient number of volunteers.

"We have enough volunteers to fill all the positions," said Baker. "But we can't give a day off."

Fuel prices also restrict the number of tourist rides the railroad can afford to offer, said Baker.

Information and reservations can be made by calling 686-3559.

EDITORIAL:

OBITS:

JOHN TODD

John "Smilin' Jack" Todd, 82, died July 23, 2006, in Ridgefield.

Todd was born March 2, 1924, in Detroit, MI, and lived in Ridgefield for five years.

Todd served in the U.S. Army and Navy during World War II, the Korean Conflict and Vietnam. He enjoyed boating, woodworking, fishing and crossword puzzles. He was a volunteer physics teacher at high schools and a member of the Ridgefield National Wildlife Refuge, Friends of the Ridgefield Community Library, and Grounds Committee at St. Mary Catholic Church. He was a staunch Democrat.

Todd had worked as a systems analyst in military communications.

Survivors include his wife of 55 years, Elaine Todd, at home, daughters Susan Todd of Oregon, Kathleen Todd of Vancouver, Julianne Grabert of Colorado, and Kelly Maul of Ridgefield, and 11 grandchildren.

Memorial services will be held Sat., July 29, noon, at St. Mary of Guadalupe Catholic Church, Ridgefield, with private interment at St. Mary Catholic Cemetery, Ridgefield.

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

Bonnie Mae Dreier, 62, died July 16, 2006, at home in Battle Ground.

Dreier was born Nov. 15, 1942, in Colquitt County, Georgia, and moved to Vancouver in the 1960s and to Battle Ground in the early 1990s.

Dreier retired after 19 years working at View Crest Nursery in Battle Ground. She had enjoyed working outdoors.

Dreier enjoyed music, especially blue grass and gospel. She played a guitar and enjoyed singing songs that she had written. She especially enjoyed times with her grandson Cristoffeer.

Dreier also enjoyed cooking, especially southern dishes.

Dreier was an early morning person, getting up at 4-5 a.m. and sitting on the porch. She enjoyed crossword and jigsaw puzzles. She liked to read and keep up on current events.

Survivors include husband Vernon D. Dreier Jr. of xxx, sons Robert Birch of Camas and Randy Birch of Missouri, step-sons Dale Dreier of Vancouver and Daniel Dreier of Goldendale, step-daughters Julie Dreier, Samantha Bex and Melissa Dreier, all of Vancouver, sister Doris Pryor of Florida, brothers Lloyd Smith and Larry Smith, both of Georgia, 14 grandchildren, two great-grandsons, and several nieces and nephews.

BRYCE BALDWIN

Bryce Michael Baldwin, 6, died at home in La Center July 19, 2006.

Baldwin was born June 7, 2000, in Clackamas, OR. He enjoyed soccer, basketball and playing video games. He liked to be first at everything. He enjoyed helping his mother and father at the family store.

Survivors include parents Jeff and Michelle Baldwin of La Center, brothers Jonas Baldwin of La Center and Devan Baldwin of Oregon, sister Jordan Baldwin of Oregon, grandparents Patty and Jerry Matney of Longview, grandmother Kay Smith of California, aunt and uncle Jennifer and Bobby Thornsberry of California, and cousin Dave Montgomery of Oregon.

Burial was at View Cemetery, with the Vancouver Funeral Chapel in charge of arrangements.

GERALDINE GANO

Geraldine "Geri" L. Gano, 62, died July 17, 2006, in Vancouver.

Gano was born June 16, 1944, in Vancouver, grew up in Battle Ground, and lived in Clark County her entire life.

Gano graduated from Battle Ground High School in 1962. She enjoyed going to the coast, visiting family and friends, and being with her grandchildren. She had a gregarious personality.

Gano had worked as a child care provider.

Survivors include sons Todd Gano of Battle Ground and Greg Gano of Oregon, brothers Ron Gano, David Gano and Vernon Gano, four grandchildren and two step-grandchildren.

Memorial services will be held Thurs., July 27, 2 p.m., at Layne's Funeral Home Chapel, Battle Ground, with interment at Venersborg Cemetery. Layne's Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.

MINNIE SOUTH

Minnie "Jo" (Rasmor) South, 65, died July 15, 2006, in Vancouver.

South was born Aug. 19, 1940, in Camas, and lived her entire life in Clark County, the last 30 years at her home in Battle Ground.

South enjoyed shopping, cooking, flower gardening, her dog "Peppi," and her cats. She also enjoyed her girl friends, Cadillacs, Elvis, and jewelry. She was a member of the Battle Ground Ladies of Elks.

South had worked as a bookkeeper in a meat packing company.

South was preceded in death by her brother, Albert Rasmor, in April 2006. Survivors include special companion Randy Ullrich, niece Melody Rasmor of Brush Prairie, nephew Alan Rasmor of Vancouver, and great-nieces and great-nephews.

Memorial services will be held Sat., July 29, 1 p.m., at Layne's Funeral Home Chapel, Battle Ground, with Layne's Funeral Home in charge of arrangements.

VIRGINIA WEISENBORN

Virginia Mae (DuNann) Weisenborn, 89, died July 13, 2006, in Ilwaco.

Weisenborn was born Aug. 30, 1916, in Portland, attended Portland schools and graduated from Jefferson High School in 1935.

During World War II, Weisenborn drove for the Red Cross Motor Corps. She worked for Sarah Coventry Jewelry for 27 years and at one time was their top sales person in the United States.

Weisenborn moved to the beach in 1989. She was a member of the Ocean Park Lutheran Church. She enjoyed knitting, crossword puzzles and walking.

Weisenborn was preceded in death by her husband of 70 years, Irving Weisenborn, in May 2006. Survivors include sons George Weisenborn of Amboy and Ray Weisenborn of California, daughters Carol Weisenborn of Ocean Park and Julia Scott of Ridgefield, sister Lillian Hood of Arizona, six grandchildren, three great-grandchildren and numerous nieces and nephews.

A combined memorial service for Virginia and Irving Weisenborn will be held Mon., Aug. 7, 6 p.m., at Ocean Park Lutheran Church, with Penttila's Chapel by the Sea, Long Beach, in charge of arrangements.

Penttila's offers an online guestbook at www.penttilaschapel.com

DOROTHY WESTLAND

Dorothy (Bell) Westland, 85, died July 7, 2006, in Coos Bay, OR.

Westland was born Dec. 25, 1920, in San Francisco, CA, and moved with her family to Wenatchee where she attended schools. She was an only child.

Westland attended nursing school in San Francisco. She worked as a registered nurse in Pacific City, OR and Albany, OR before moving to Vancouver in about 1977. She worked as a registered nurse for the Vancouver Veterans Hospital. She retired and moved to Coos Bay in 1987.

Westland loved animals, reading, gardening, bird watching, oceans and nature. She was a political activist and joined various causes. She was a member of the Ladies of the Elks in Coos Bay, Sierra Club, Nature Conservancy and the ACLU.

Westland was preceded in death by her husband, Kenneth Westland, in 2002. Survivors include one cousin, and friends Janice and Richard Davis of Yacolt.

Westland was cremated and her ashes were scattered at sea along with the ashes of her husband and those of Charlie, her Yorkie dog.

Nelson's Bay Area Mortuary was in charge of arrangements.

TIMOTHY THOMPSON

Timothy Lawrence Thompson, 36, died of liver disease July 17, 2006, in Vancouver.

Thompson was born Nov. 4, 1969, in Tonasket, and lived in Ridgefield since 1998.

Thompson worked as manager of the Sportsman Pub in Ridgefield. He was a fan of NASCAR and the Oakland Raiders. He enjoyed golfing.

Thompson was preceded in death by his mother, Tamara Thompson, in 1998. Survivors include father Ronald Thompson of Texas, brother Michael Thompson of Arizona, grandmother Joan Thompson, grandparents Larry and Jane Moore, and special companion Sonja Wood.

Hamilton-Mylan Funeral Home, Vancouver, was in charge of arrangements.