NEW DETECTOR COUNTS BULL TROUT IN RUSH CREEK

Counting the number of bull trout in Rush Creek has been made a little easier with the addition of a tag detector.

The Remote Passive Integrated Transponder (PIT tag) detector has been placed in the creek, a tributary of the upper Lewis River.

The bull trout have been listed as threatened since 1998, but according to information from the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife, the fish may be returning to the upper Lewis River.

The Trout Unlimited organization has been working with state officials for a number of years to help restore the run, said Tammy Mackey, president of the Clark County Chapter of Trout Unlimited.

In late July, a half dozen volunteers from the two organizations tagged individual bull trout, bringing the number of tagged fish to 600, officials said.

When a tagged bull trout swims through the detector's antenna window, it will be recorded with a date and time stamp.

Mackey said the information is recorded for researchers who are studying how the fish behave. They can learn when the fish move downstream or upstream, how many times each fish moves through the stream and when spawning begins and ends.

Fish biologists and researchers hope to learn more about the bull trout's life history with the detector, Mackey said.

State officials have reported that the bull trout population apparently is increasing in the Lewis River and has grown from 101 fish in 1994 to 1,200 in 2005.

The bull trout spawn in only two Lewis River tributaries, according to state officials, and more than 70 percent spawn in Rush Creek.

Snorkel surveys indicate that the fish are spawning less in Rush Creek than in the past. More snorkel surveys are planned, Mackey said.

Rush Creek anglers are being asked not to target bull trout, and if they catch any of the threatened fish to release them into the stream.

HUMAN REMAINS FOUND NEAR MOULTON FALLS

A man scouting for deer trails Aug. 4, about 6 p.m., near Moulton Falls Park in Yacolt found a badly decomposed body about one mile from the park.

About noon the following day, detectives and search and rescue personnel from the Clark County Sheriff's Office hiked to the remains in a densely wooded area.

The remains have not yet been identified, nor has it been determined whether the deceased is an adult or a child or male or female, officials said.

Clothing and other personal items were at the scene, but no identification, officials said. They do not suspect foul play.

The Medical Examiner's Office took possession of the remains and will determine the identity within a few days, officials said.

PLANS FOR CENTRAL MAIN BG CREEP FORWARD

Heidi Wallenborn

news director

An Aug. 3 open house to hear ideas about the Central Main Street District of Battle Ground drew about a dozen business owners and citizens.

City planners and JD White Company consultants were on hand to field questions, concerns, and input as people wandered around looking at placards of information about the way the area looks now and suggestion for improvement.

In April 2001, city council members approved a 50-year vision for the city. Part of the vision recognizes that the heart of Battle Ground is the downtown area which is centered at Main St. and Parkway Ave. The vision includes school district property, Old Town, the railroad, a town square and several businesses.

The Central Main Street District now under review is located between SR-503 and Parkway Ave., north to Onsdorff Blvd., and south to Rasmussen Blvd.

Officials suggest making that area a cohesive district to take advantage of new opportunities and build on its current strengths.

Officials believe that people gravitate to attractive places where they can feel safe driving, walking and riding bicycles.

In the past, streets were built for motorists who mostly passed through, but in today's society, there is a need to accommodate pedestrians and bicyclists as well, city officials believe.

An information sheet provided by the JD White Co. says the current Central Main Street District is not attractive or comfortable for motorists, pedestrians, or bicyclists.

Traffic congestion, narrow sidewalks, and an absence of bike lanes, street trees, and greenery are apparent, it reports.

Some buildings and site features on some private and educational properties need maintenance, upgrades, or replacement, the information sheet reports, adding that all these challenges need attention, and solutions are needed more.

As a result, city officials sent out a survey with a list of ideas and questions that will lead to a plan.

Topics on the survey were land use/urban design, and transportation and parking.

Business owners are asked to give their opinions about wider sidewalks, street trees and other landscaping, ornamental lighting, and reducing the number of travel lanes on Main Street from two in each direction to one in each direction with a center turn lane and/or center turn pockets.

Rick Harris, co-owner of Dick's Tire Factory, wasn't impressed.

"I got as far as step one and realized I didn't like any of it," Harris said.

Harris especially took issue with reducing the number of traffic lanes.

"With traffic the way it is, the idea of two lanes is not feasible," he said. "I'm surprised they went with that idea."

Harris also isn't keen on the idea of making the area more pedestrian and bicycle friendly.

He laughed and said, "I'm the last person who wants people walking and riding bikes. I change oil and sell tires."

Another citizen on a survey form said they might support two lanes if there was another way out of Battle Ground High School for students, such as a road behind that intersects SR-503.

Focus on Main Street and Parkway Avenue

Ron Mah, project consultant with JD White, said overall the event went well, a lot of good comments were made, and several people lingered "quite awhile" to speak with staff and consultants.

Comments focused on improvements on Main and Parkway, he said.

Specifically, citizens want S Parkway Ave. smoothed out and pedestrian safety provided along that corridor, and for school district officials to consider removing unattractive buildings along W Main St.

A community design workshop will be held Wed., Aug. 30, 4-7 p.m., in the council chambers at city hall, 109 SW 1st St.

Plans are to recommend a plan to the city's planning commission in late September, send a refined plan to council members in late October with a final plan for their approval in late November, and to have the plan finalized in early December.

"We want to hear from all facets of the community," Mah said. "We start with public input, then develop a plan."

"I'll wait and see that comes out of the open house," Harris said, "to see if I need to reform my opinion."

DISPUTE ERUPTS OVER LAND IN BG

BG Plaza owners say developer can't build

Heidi Wallenborn

news director

Area developer Dean Maldonado wants to construct two retail/commercial buildings on a lot he owns in Battle Ground near Wilco next to SR-503, south of W Main St.

California-based Battle Ground Plaza LLC partners don't want him to do that, and have appealed the city's approval of the project.

The matter is currently before a hearings examiner for review.

Plaza partners said the city violated its own requirements for parking access, fire access and shared parking when they approved a staff report and decision for the project. They also contest Maldonado's ownership of the site.

According to a notice of appeal filed by attorney Ben Shafton who represents the Plaza partners, Doug Ray and Irwin Jessen sold the .51-acre parcel to Maldonado inappropriately.

Ray and Jessen reportedly did not notify the partners of the sale as required.

The partners contend that an agreement between Ray and Jessen and the partners gives Battle Ground Plaza LLC a right of first refusal. The Plaza property abuts Maldonado's site.

As a result, the ownership of the parcel is in question, the appeal said. They ask that the city not issue site plan approval until the issue is resolved.

According to assistant planner Robert Maul, Maldonado showed proof of ownership, and that is what was required for city approval.

Partners have filed with Clark County Superior Court a complaint for specific performance, damages, and declatory relief against Maldonado, Ray and Jessen over the alleged improper sale of the property.

It states that the agreement between the partners and Ray and Jessen requires that Battle Ground Plaza LLC is to be notified about any sale and allowed to exercise an optional right of first refusal.

It alleges that Maldonado, Ray and Jessen entered into an agreement for sale with an addendum that reduced the price.

Another issue related to access for required parking spaces is moot at this time, Maul said, because Maldonado obtained and recorded an access easement on adjacent property after the appeal was filed.

The partners said there is insufficient access in and out of the parking lot.

A second concern is about fire and emergency vehicle access.

On a map, there are lines drawn showing easements. The Plaza's easement allowing access goes to a point and stops in a portion of the parking lot.

Technically, the partners argue, it's a dead-end and there needs to be a turn-around or hammerhead for emergency vehicles, Maul said.

The fact that Maldonado has an agreement with the adjacent property owners takes care of that issue, according to a rebuttal from city staff.

"There is clearly no dead end situation there since the area in question is part of parking lots that serve the Wilco Farm Store location as well as tenants in the Battle Ground Plaza," the report said. "Parking lots are clearly intended for general public vehicular access, and emergency vehicles responding to a fire or other emergency."

The partners also dispute the parcel's ability to access shared parking and common driveways.

Maul said he expects the hearings examiner to decide on the parking and access issues within two weeks.

Maldonado plans to build two buildings--9,357 square feet and 2,264 square feet--and call it the Kristi Center, with an opening in fall this year.

FORMER DENTIST SENTENCED FOR KILLING WIFE

Heidi Wallenborn

news director

Former Battle Ground dentist James Classen has been sentenced to 23 years in prison for killing his wife.

On April 24, a jury found Classen guilty in the first degree murder of his wife of nearly 30 years, EveAnn Classen.

On April 26, they found him not guilty of two aggravating factors that would have allowed sentencing outside the normal guideline, which is 22-30 years.

The jury said she was not especially vulnerable and the killing was not deliberately cruel when he attacked her with scissors while she slept.

On Aug. 2, Superior Court judge John Wulle sentenced Classen, 60, to 23 years and four months in prison, with credit for one year and four months for time already served.

Classen murdered his estranged 56-year-old wife on Feb. 5, 2005, by stabbing her dozens of times with her sewing scissors, mostly in her face.

EveAnn Classen was sleeping in her bedroom in the couple's Salmon Creek area home where she lived alone.

Classen, reportedly enraged that she was seeing another man intimately, left his Orchards area duplex and snuck into the home in the early morning hours.

After he stabbed her, he left her, still breathing, lying on the floor. She died of suffocation from a punctured lung and loss of blood, officials said.

Classen returned to his home to change his clothes and wash up before heading to his cabin in Skamania County. From there he called a friend hours later and said he thought he'd killed EveAnn.

Classen's defense attorney Jon McMullen said the severe depression Classen suffers from worsened when EveAnn abruptly asked for a divorce while the couple were in counseling and seeing each other on weekends.

Classen told police after the killing that he was "full of rage."

Prosecutor Tony Golik said Classen knew what he was doing and that the act was premeditated.

The defense said because of Classen's mental illness he was functioning in diminished capacity and asked for a second degree murder conviction with a minimum 15-year sentence.

In a pre-sentence report to Wulle, McMullen asked for leniency.

"We all know jail time ages a man in a different way," McMullen wrote, "and even 15 years would have only left a theoretical possibility of life at the other end, but that number provided hope and really a light at the end of the tunnel for the victims (the couple's two grown sons.)"

"Now any number that the Court can lawfully impose is likely to be a life sentence, most probably a death sentence for this sixty year old man," he continued.

McMullen asked Wulle to consider his client's mental health issues.

"It would be difficult for anyone to look at Jim Classen's entire life and his history of severe mental illness and suggest with a straight face that he simply doesn't have any mental problems," McMullen wrote.

He asked the judge to consider the fact that his sons, Maurice and Marcel, unwaveringly supported their father.

McMullen also said responses from the community toward him were telling about the kind of man Classen is.

When a story is "media worthy", he wrote, people often ask how he could "represent such a person, sit in the same room, listen to the horrible story."

But this time, everywhere he went, people would "go on, sometimes at length, expressing what a great man he is, and how utterly shocked they were to hear this."

McMullen said several people said Classen is one of the finest people that they have known.

"Even if Jim had gotten the 15 years...I don't think that anyone would have seriously suggested that he would have been a danger to society at 75 years old if he would have actually made it out of prison alive at that age," McMullen wrote. "No number the Court could possibly give is ever going to bring EveAnn Classen back to life."

Appeal in the works

McMullen and co-defense attorney Todd Maybrown will file an appeal for a new trial.

The final three days of Classen's trial are missing in the audio portion of the official record.

In a declaration filed with the court, Maybrown said one day of the defense case, the entire rebuttal case, and closing arguments were lost.

Wulle, Maybrown, McMullen and Golik reconstructed those days using a television news video, notes and interviews.

Defense attorneys asked Wulle to declare a mistrial.

Wulle refused, and declared the reconstruction sufficient to forward with sentencing.

"It is my view that the parties were unable to reconstruct a record of sufficient completeness to satisfy due process concerns," Maybrown wrote.

EARTHQUAKE JOLTS AREA

Epicenter two miles northwest of Dollars Corner

Bill Myers

staff reporter

An earthquake measured at 3.8 on the Richter Scale jolted Battle Ground-area citizens on Aug. 3 at 1:39 a.m.

The epicenter was about two miles north-northwest of Dollars Corner, according to University of Washington Seismology Laboratory spokesman Bill Steele.

Steele said scientists determined the source was at a fault line 7.2 miles below the earth's surface.

"People living near the epicenter will feel a sharp crack or jolt," said Steele. Folks further away, including residents of Portland, will feel a rolling sensation, he said.

An after-shock measured at 2.1 on the Richter Scale was recorded at 3:25 a.m.

Comments from citizens awakened by the quake fit the Steele scenario.

Brian Morgan, who lives south of Woodland, said he thought a bulldozer hit his house.

Charter Oak area resident Laura Venneri said she and her husband thought a car had plowed into their home.

Orchards resident Karen McMillen said she awoke and felt her house shaking.

Darlene Carr, a resident of downtown Vancouver, said her home shook and windows rattled.

More after-shocks from the quake, usually of lesser magnitude than the original event, are likely, said Steele.

A "polite reminder..."

The quake was a polite reminder that scientists have long warned that the region is due for an 8.0 to 9.0 magnitude quake, said Clark Regional Emergency Services spokesperson Deborah Needham.

Needham said that citizens who haven't done it yet should get household members together, make a plan, and build an emergency kit.

Needham said recommendations on emergency planning are available at www.preparetogether.org. The timing of this polite warning was perfect, said Needham, because September is National Preparedness Month.

MEADOW GLADE OWNERS SEEK REZONES

County staff members recommend denial pending sewer solution

Bill Myers

staff reporter

Eight Meadow Glade property owners are seeking rezones of their properties from five-acre minimum lot sizes (R-5) to one-care minimum lot sizes (Rural Center-1).

Clark County long range planning staff members are urging County commissioners to deny the requests because of inadequate sewer services.

Planners issued Determinations of Non-Significance July 24 on requests from Harry C.S. Park to rezone 16.9 acres at 9600 NE 179th St., Battle Ground, and Jeffrey Johnson, to rezone 35.6 acres near 19202 NE 101st Ave., Battle Ground. Johnson filed a rezone request for himself and on behalf of six adjacent property owners.

County staff members say Clark Regional Wastewater District officials won't expand services regardless of zoning.

In a letter to County planners, District engineer Chuck McDonald said the Meadow Glade sewer system was designed years ago for participating area/parcels and only for zoning in effect then.

McDonald said the District will continue to restrict sewer connections to only properties allocated in the original system design and calculations.

In his letter, McDonald said an engineering study is expected before year-end that will determine the practicality of increasing densities in the Meadow Glade area.

A Public Hearing on the rezone requests is set before the Clark County Planning Commission on Thurs., Aug. 17, 6:30 p.m., in the Commissioners Hearing Room, 6th floor of the Public Service Building, 1300 Franklin Ave., Vancouver.

Public comments are due Wed., Aug. 16, and should be directed to Clark County Community Development, Long Range Planning, Attn: Jeff Niten, PO Box 9810, Vancouver, 98660-9810.

REFUGE PROPOSES ENTRY FEES, HIGHER HUNTING CHARGES

Comments due Aug. 10 in wake of July 28 news release

Officials of the Ridgefield National Wildlife Refuge want to assess entrance fees for the River "S" and Carty units of the Refuge starting Oct. 16.

Officials are proposing a $3 daily visit vehicle fees, $1 per person walk-on or bicycle fee, and an annual pass program for $15. They also suggest commercial tour fees ranging from $25 to $200.

Officials also want to add $3 to Recreation Fees and double season passes from $50 to $100 for the 2006-07 waterfowl hunting season.

According to a U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service news release, details of fee proposals may be viewed at www.fws.gov/ridgefieldrefuges.

The news release, dated July 28, said comments are due Aug. 10. Comments may be submitted from the website.

Comments may also be mailed to the Ridgefield National Wildlife Refuge, P.O. Box 457, Ridgefield, WA 98642.

Fees collected would be used for improvements to the Refuge public use programs, including outreach materials, signage, interpretation, trail/road maintenance and additional staffing, said the agency announcement.

PORT OF WOODLAND WILL ADD SPACE THIS YEAR

Alice Perry Linker

staff reporter

The Port of Woodland receives a half dozen inquires each month from industries interested in leasing space, according to Dave Ripp, Port manager.

The Port has 20 tenants hiring 275 people in its buildings. The buildings are full, but additional space is on the drawing board, Ripp said.

The Port will begin construction in September on a 4,500-square-foot building addition in the Down River Industrial Park on Down River Drive.

As the number of tenants has grown, the Port has reduced its property tax rate.

"I'm most excited about what we've been able to accomplish in the last five years," Ripp said. "We decreased our tax assessment every year--this year from 35 cents (per $1,000) to 33 cents, and we're looking at trying to decrease 1 cent or 1 1/2 cents next year."

Although only one building project is planned this year, the Port plans to develop another 12-20 acres along Guild Road within the next five years, if not sooner, Ripp said. The land was purchased in 2005 for $750,000.

The Port property includes the nine-acre Guild-Kady Century Farm.

"We plan to do a site plan, put in curbs, infrastructure within the next three-five years," Ripp said. "We'll widen Guild Road in front of our property."

As new companies sign on with the Port, the longest-lived Port tenant will leave. Officials of Precision Industries Constructors (PIC) plan to buy land in Woodland.

Ripp said he has had inquiries about the 1 1/2 buildings occupied by PIC and expects to have a tenant soon.

Port proeprty is zoned for both light and heavy industry, but Ripp said there is little difference between the two.

"Light industry is all over the board," he said. "We have beer distributors, auto parts distributors, automotive repair."

A 175-acre section of Port land lies along the Lewis River. That site is reserved for companies that depend on barges for shipping, Ripp said.

Another 50 acres make up Sherman Way Industrial Park. Thirty acres are already developed with three tenants.

Another 25 acres is served by rail, and Ripp said he is marketing that land to railroad users. Four acres will be developed with smaller industries, he said.

The Port, created in 1960, has an annual budget of $1.45 million. The three commissioners are Jerry Peterson, Tom Wilson and Dale Boone.

photo in alice 8-9

Port of Woodland Manager Dave Ripp stands at the entrance to the Down River Park.

ZONE CHANGES SOUGHT BY WOODLAND DEVELOPERS

Alice Perry Linker

staff reporter

Developers have applied to the City of Woodland for land use changes.

Two developers have requested rezoning from commercial to high-density residential, one landowner is asking for rezoning from high-density residential to commercial, and another has asked for a change from light industrial to commercial.

The requests involve changing the city's comprehensive plan, and they require a public hearing by the planning commission. The hearing has been tentatively set for Sept. 12, according to the applications, but Woodland planning assistant Nancy Malone said the date may change.

Chumbley Bros LLC will ask the planning commission to approve the rezoning of nearly six acres on Schurman Way south of Dike Access Road and diagonally across from the planned Wal-Mart. The property is zoned for light industrial and the Chumbleys are requesting commercial zoning.

Skip Urling of Ecological Land Services Inc. said the Chumbleys have not sold the property.

"I don't think they have specific changes in mind," Urling said. "Things are changing there and they think commercial uses are in the best interests of the city."

Pacific Development and Associates of Lake Oswego, OR, seeks a zone change from commercial to high-density residential with some commercial.

According to the application, Pacific Development plans to build attached duplexes and triplexes on 20.2 acres between SR-503 and Atlantic Avenue. The plan calls for 18-20 single-family attached units per acre. The perimeter of the site would be developed for commercial use.

Another 32 acres in highway commercial zoning along Old Pacific Highway east of I-5 has been proposed for high-density residential by Jon Gaston of Vancouver.

In the application, Gaston says that after the zone is changed, he will apply to the city to develop a subdivision. No details were available.

The planning commission will also hear a request from Tae Ho Lee to rezone a little more than a half acre near the intersection of Lewis River Road and Scott Avenue from residential to commercial.

According to his application, Lee plans to build a convenience store, a check-cashing service store and other shops.

SNYDER WILL CONSULT AT RIDGEFIELD

Contract starts at $90, goes to $100 per hour after 60 days

Bill Myers

staff reporter

Ridgefield city council members voted July 27 to pay $90 per hour for initial consulting services of former employee Kevin Snyder.

Snyder, the City's community development director for about a year, resigned July 5 to accept a position with Vancouver consulting firm, Maul Foster Alongi, Inc. (MFA).

Maul Foster Alongi, Inc. is an engineering consultant to the Port of Ridgefield.

Hired by the City in 2004, Snyder was appointed deputy city manager for several months in 2005 under then-city manager George Fox. While deputy city manager, Snyder's annual salary was listed at $7,512 monthly.

The deputy city manager position was eliminated following the suspension of Fox last December. Snyder was reassigned to community development functions at an adjusted monthly salary of $6,512.

Under an agreement approved by council members, the City will pay $90 per hour for up to 60 days of on-call consulting services by Snyder. After that, the fee goes to $100 per hour. Work by Snyder after Dec. 31, 2006, would require a separate contract.

Snyder said the billable rates represent a reduction in his planned billable hourly rate, and "reflect MFA's commitment to assist the City of Ridgefield."

Interim city manager Justin Clary said Snyder, familiar with city projects, is a good choice to fill a temporary need for project management in the Community Development Department.

City officials are currently advertising for an Interim Community Development Director on a contract basis, said Clary. He said a permanent director should not be hired because of uncertainty associated with the City Manager position status and its likely impact on the pool of candidates.

Funding allocated for the community development director will be used to support the Snyder consultant agreement.

Council approval was unanimous.

BATTLE GROUND SWIM SCHOOL WILL CLOSE

Bill Myers

staff reporter

Some parents say City should build a pool

A swimming pool in Battle Ground where thousands of children learned to swim over the past 26 years will close Sept. 1.

Pool operators--mother/daughter team Barbara and Teresa Ross--are moving to Yuma, AZ.

The Rosses started Battle Ground Swimming School in 1980 at an enclosed pool on private property at the corner of NE 199th St. and Parkway Ave.

Barbara is entering semi-retirement. Teresa lives in Yuma with her husband, Jim Schlotterbeck, when not teaching swim lessons in Battle Ground. Barbara and Teresa plan to open a pool in Yuma.

Over the years, Barbara and Teresa charged what many customers describe as "very reasonable rates" to coach children of all ages through their initial swimming experiences.

The Rosses conducted several small swimming classes daily, teaching four to eight children in each session.

Choking back tears, Teresa talked about leaving a Battle Ground family of untold numbers of parents and former students who have remained friends.

Teresa said that in recent years, she has taught children of former students who met at the school, fell in love and later married.

Parent reactions

Battle Ground resident Suzanne Babcock, whose children attend classes at the pool, said she is unhappy about the closure and wishes that the City would build a community pool.

This is a sad time, said another parent, Beth Smalley. Smalley has three children attending swimming classes at the pool.

Smalley also said City officials should take the lead in building a pool.

"Better a pool than a skate board park!" said Babcock.

Battle Ground parent Cathy Davis said the school will be missed more than most people know. "I have friends in their mid-30s who were children when taught to swim there," she said.

"Water safety has always been stressed by the Rosses," said another grateful mother. "There is no doubt that the work of these ladies saved lives over the years," she added.

Senior citizens who use the pool for regular aquatic exercises will also miss it. The pool will be returned for private use by property owners who have a residence at the site.

In a farewell letter to customers, the Rosses said they will miss their customers and friends, including "the children that have given us joy, challenge, laughter and a happy heart."

The Rosses also thanked the Pat Redjou family for their kindness and the use of the pool.

City spokesperson Adrienne DeDona said Phase I of the Fairgrounds Park recreational project will include construction of a Skate Board Park, new restrooms and trails.

Phase II discussions will get underway later, said DeBona. Now is a good time for citizens to bring suggestions for projects in this phase to City Hall, said DeBona.

COMMENTS INVITED ON 219TH ST. EXTENSION

Clark County planners invite public comments through Wed., Aug. 16, on a proposal to place a westerly extension of NE 219th St. on the county's Arterial Atlas.

Although a specific alignment has not been identified, the proposal would extend NE 219th St. westerly from I-5 into the Ridgefield area.

Planning is underway for an extension of NE 219th St. from Duluth to I-5.

Under the county's planning process, proposed roadways advance from the Arterial Atlas to the 20-year capital facilities plan and then to a 6-year Transportation Improvement Plan.

Comments may be sent to Marty Snell, Clark County Long Range Planning, P.O. Box 9810, Vancouver, WA 98666-9810. Snell may be reached at 397-2375, ext. 4558.

TRAIN RIDES SAID A SUCCESS

After an 18-month absence, tourist rides returned to the Chelatchie Prairie Railroad July 29.

About 150 people rode the two trains from Yacolt station to Basket Flats, with a stop at Mouton Falls county park.

Bryan Baker, who heads the volunteer Battle Ground, Yacolt and Chelatchie Prairie railroad group, said 97 people rode the 11 a.m. train, with "lots of kids, and mostly families. Everybody seemed thrilled," said Baker.

The train was equipped with two cabooses and one flat car, plus a diesel engine, said Baker.

Matt Barton served as engineer. Other volunteers who played roles in the day's events were Will Pickering, Doug Auburg, George Bennett, Jeff Kearl, Pete Lewis, Mel Kirkland, Ron Weiher, Joan Nickerson and Baker.

Lynne Oldham, former manager of the Battle Ground Chamber of Commerce, watched the renewal of train rides at the Yacolt station.

"I saw the train ready to pull out," said Oldham. "The ticket conductor poised, an open car full of smiling people, whistle blowing. It takes my breath away for the simple joy of it."

"It was so wonderful to see the volunteer railroad group setting out on Saturday," added Oldham. "Kudos to the entire group and the people who enjoyed the train ride."

The volunteer group was booted off the line in 2005 as county officials negotiated with Columbia Basin Railroad, the company that holds a 90-year lease on the county-owned rail line.

Next rides: 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.

Other rides

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.

"The Headless Horseman is haunting Moulton Falls." This special Halloween event, set for Oct. 28-29, will feature 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.

Baker said the volunteer group earned about $12,000 from the sale of fireworks last month, which is enough to pay a year's worth of insurance, he said.

Reservations are recommended for all rides and required for some. All rides leave from the Yacolt station.

Fifteen members of the La Center High School class of 1956 gathered in reunion Aug. 5-6, organized by class member Paul Cole.

The weekend events included a Saturday dinner at the Oak Tree Restaurant in Woodland, and a Sunday picnic at Lewisville Park in Battle Ground.

Cole said the class had 28 members of whom seven are deceased.

The class held a 10 year reunion, said Cole, and has gathered every five years since then.

Cole said three class members are not able to located. They are Gary Baker, Bob Harkleroad and Marlow Wilson.

Barbara (Avery) Mallender, a resident of Florida, came the greatest distance to attend the event. Lynn Binford traveled from Las Vegas, NV to be with class members.

Others attending were Trudy (Osborne) Johnson, Nettie (Hansen) Weaver, Carol (Murray) Norton, JoAnn (Johnson) Swanson, Loretta (Fike) Freese, Martha (Pratt) Hokanson, Shirley (Harmon) Patterson, Rose Marie (Jellum) Benkee, Vera (Papenfuse) Walters, Don Andrews, Keith Harrison and David Buckbee.

COMMISSIONERS UPHOLD HEARINGS EXAMINER ON HARRIS METAL FAB

In a 2-1 vote Aug. 2, the Clark County commissioners upheld a hearing examiner's decision to revoke the Harris Metal Fab home occupation permit.

The decision allows Harris to operate on a smaller scale, while placing limits on his business activity.

Whereas Harris had received county approval to conduct his metal fabrication business in a 2,500 square foot building with three employees and 12 customers a day, the decision limits Harris to working in 1,000 square feet of his building, with two employees and six customers a day.

Vancouver attorney Brian Wolfe, representing Harris, suggested that an appeal to Superior Court would be considered.

The hearings examiner, now affirmed by the county commissioners, decided that the Harris property at NE 219th St. and NE 192nd Ave., was less than the 2.5 acres required in county code for a major home business operation.

Harris began operating his metal fabrication business at the site in September 2005. When neighbors complained about noise, Clark County officials required that Harris apply for a home business permit which he did in November 2005. The permit was approved with conditions in January 2006.

Neighbors appealed the approval, advancing several arguments, one of which was lot size.

Hearing Examiner Richard Forester upheld the appeal in May 2006, concluding that the site was not 2.5 acres.

Forester agreed with the neighbors that the site is about 1.99 acres in size. Adding in both half of NE 219th St. and all of the 40-foot-wide NE 192nd Ave. increases the site to 2.49 acres.

Neither county staff nor Harris refuted the lot size calculation before the hearing examiner.

Vancouver attorney Dave Phillips advanced the lot size argument for the neighbors, with testimony from land surveyor Bill Johnson.

Forester also directed that Harris adhere to state noise regulations and reduce his outside activity area to meet county rules.

Harris appealed Forester's decision, leading to last week's hearing before the commissioners.

Commissioner Betty Sue Morris argued that county officials had long applied a different standard in rural areas, allowing the measurement of contiguous county roads to be included in calculations of property size.

Neither commissioner Marc Boldt nor Steve Stuart wanted to challenge the hearing examiner's decision.

Morris warned that the decision in the Harris case could have consequences in other situations, a point disputed by Stuart.

"It's not for me to stand in the way of the hearing examiner," said Stuart. "He did an adequate analysis."

"You only get to the correctness of the facts depending on how you interpret the code," said Morris. "A number of parcels that you have considered legal are not now because of what you just said."

"The code is to instruct us on how to measure a lot," said Morris who explained how the size of rural lots had customarily been calculated.

All three commissioners agreed that county code regarding lot size calculations should be clarified. Morris would have preferred to allow Harris to operate as a major home business and then take up changes to county code later.

"I'm not going to be beat on," said a defiant Harris after the commissioners' action. "Nobody's going to run me out of my home."

Harris said he has no plans to move.

Harris said that, at present, he has no employees.

Neighbor Jerry Melton, one of eight families that appealed the Harris permit, said Harris should have done his homework (on lot size) before buying the site and operating his home business.

OBITS:

DOROTHY HARRIS

Dorothy M. (Durkee) Harris, 92, died Aug. 3, 2006, in Vancouver.

Harris was born July 2, 1914, in Battle Ground. She earned a bachelor's degree from Willamette University in Salem, OR, and a master's degree from the University of Portland.

Harris was head of the home economics department at Clark College where she worked for 14 years. She was a member of the St. Lukes Episcopal Church. She enjoyed gardening, music, travel, fishing and sewing.

Harris was preceded in death by her husband, J W. Harris, in 1987. Survivors include daughters Kathleen Goetsch of Ohio and Barbara Eisenberg of California, sister Virginia Richards of Vancouver, three grandchildren and one nephew.

A celebration of life service will be held Fri., Aug. 11, 11 a.m., at St. Luke Episcopal Church, with the Vancouver Funeral Home in charge of arrangements.

RON BOULLION

Ronald "Ron" LaVern Boullion, 65, died Aug. 5, 2006, in Battle Ground.

Boullion was born April 21, 1941, in Aberdeen, SD, and lived in Clark County for 41 years, the past 34 years in Battle Ground.

Boullion enjoyed restoring tractors and attending old tractor shows. He liked playing with his grandchildren and helping others. He worked as an accountant.

Boullion was preceded in death by his father, LaVern Nick Boullion, sister Barbara Hart, and son Lee Boullion. Survivors include widow Joan Boullion, at home in Battle Ground, daughters Cathy Wilmot of Vancouver and Michelle Nelson of Battle Ground, sons Steven Boullion of Battle Ground and Ronald Boullion of Vancouver, mother Dorothy Reeve of Minnesota, brothers Gerald Boullion of Mississippi and Richard Boullion of California, sister Sandra Whitcomb of Minnesota, eight grandchildren and three great-grandchildren.

Memorial services will be held Thurs., Aug. 10, 11 a.m., at Layne's Funeral Home Chapel, Battle Ground, with Layne's Funeral Home in charge of arrangements.

Roy M. Bowen, 86, died Aug. 2, 2006, in Vancouver.

Bowen was born May 21, 1920, in Toledo, and lived in Toledo until moving to Woodland in 1956. He worked as a log truck driver from age 16 until retirement in 1987 after 37 1/2 years with Ben Thomas Logging Inc.

Bowen was a former member of the Eagles in Longview.

Bowen was preceded in death by son Larry Bowen, three brothers and one sister. Survivors include widow Lois Bowen, at home in Woodland, son Duane Bowen, daughters Janet Shipley and Donna Brodhun, both of Vancouver, step-sons Jim Blankenship and Greg Blankenship, both of Cougar, step-daughter Deanna Lundgreen of Ohio, 16 grandchildren and several great-grandchildren.

Davies Cremation & Burial Services was in charge of arrangements.

GERTRUDE WILCOX

Gertrude Marie (Janson) Wilcox, 104, died July 31, 2006, in Battle Ground.

Wilcox was born Oct. 21, 1901, in Seattle, and lived in Battle Ground for the past 15 years.

Wilcox enjoyed knitting, gardening and being with her family. Wilcox was preceded in death by her husband, Milo Wilcox. Survivors include daughters Melisse Laing of Battle Ground and Mary Lou Gilbert of California, son Milo Wilcox of Portland, eight grandchildren, seven great-grandchildren and five great-great-grandchildren.

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

James Lewis Sheldon, 57, died Aug. 2, 2006, in Vancouver.

Sheldon was born Dec. 19, 1948, in Forest Grove, OR, and lived in Clark County most of his life, the last 20 years in La Center.

Sheldon graduated from La Center High School and served with the U.S. Army in Vietnam. He enjoyed volleyball, gardening, working on cars, scuba diving and raising animals.

Sheldon worked as a welder in the mining industry.

Survivors include sons Brian Sheldon, Mark Sheldon and Brandon Sheldon, all of La Center, brother Jerry Sheldon of Longview, and sister Betty Sheldon of Vancouver.

Funeral services will be held Tues., Aug. 8, 11 a.m., at Layne's Funeral Home Chapel, Battle Ground, with burial at 1 p.m. at Willamette National Cemetery, Portland. Layne's Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.

MARGARET DILLARD

Margaret "Jenny" Janice (Wiwel) Dillard, 74, died Aug. 3, 2006, in Vancouver.

Dillard was born Feb. 7, 1932, in Woodland, and lived in Clark County for 50 years, the last seven years in Vancouver.

Dillard graduated from La Center High School in 1950.

Dillard was preceded in death by her husband, Thomas R. Dillard, in 1998, granddaughter Tonya, and sisters Marcella Abrahamson, Elizabeth Brouhard and Alta Dallas. Survivors include sons Randall Dillard of Arizona and David Dillard of Virginia, sister Barbara Lash of Oregon, brothers Nils Wiwel of Battle Ground and Carl Wiwel of Renton, five grandchildren, three great-grandchildren and several nieces and nephews.

Private memorial services and inurnment committal are planned, with Layne's Funeral Home, Battle Ground, in charge of arrangements.

JAMES KIRK

James Howard Kirk, 72, died July 29, 2006, in Vancouver.

Kirk was born May 26, 1934, in Warren, OR. He served in the U.S. Navy 1952-53.

Kirk married Georgia Alexander in 1951 and divorced in 1982. They later became reunited in friendship.

Kirk volunteered in the veteran's nursing home where he also spent time. He worked in construction, a coal mine and a nuclear site until retirement in 1990. He also was a long-haul truck driver.

Kirk enjoyed telling jokes and funny stories. He loved motorcycles, horses, and car racing.

Kirk suffered a rare skin disorder, Crohne's disease, melanoma, and cancer of the kidney and bladder.

Kirk was preceded in death by brothers William Kirk and Wallace Kirk, sisters Eva Johnson and Mae Koski, and nieces and nephews. Survivors include daughters Cathey Caldwell of Kalama, Connie Lane of La Center and Cindy Wheeler of Longview, son James Kirk of Battle Ground, 11 grandchildren and 24 great-grandchildren.

American Burial and Cremation, Portland, was in charge of arrangements.

JOHN HEUVEL

John Cornelius Heuvel, 69, died July 31, 2006, in Vancouver.

Heuvel was born Feb. 5, 1938, in Oregon City, OR, served in the U.S. Air Force 1956-64 with service in Korea, and lived most of his life in Clark County, last at Camas.

Heuvel graduated from Battle Ground High School in 1956. He retired from working at ALCOA. He also worked five years for the U.S. Forest Service. He was an avid outdoorsman and enjoyed fishing and hunting.

Survivors include widow Donna M Heuvel, at home in Camas, sons Mitch Heuvel of Camas, Paul Sibley of Vancouver and John C. Heuvel IV of Battle Ground, mother Hellen Heuvel of Vancouver, brothers Victor Heuvel of Camas, Bill Heuvel of Battle Ground, and Jim Heuvel of Spokane, sisters Helen Shackols and Nancy Fasilis, both of Vancouver, and Ruth Maxwell of Arlington, WA, 10 grandchildren and six great-grandchildren.

A graveside service with military honors will be held Fri., Aug. 11, 2:30 p.m., at Willamette National Cemetery, 11800 SE Mt. Scott Blvd., Portland. A memorial service is set for Sat., Aug. 12, 11 a.m., at Lacamas Heights Community of Christ Church, 4627 NE Everett St., Camas, with Straub Funeral Home, Camas, in charge of arrangements.

HARRIET WARNOCK

Harriet Isabelle (Noltner) Warnock, 93, died July 24, 2006, at home in Rainier, OR.

Warnock was born June 27, 1913, in Portland, attended school in Portland, and studied home economics at Oregon State University.

Warnock worked as a bookkeeper. She lived in Portland for 42 years and Vancouver for 47 years. She was a member of the First Presbyterian Church in Vancouver, Deta Zeka, Busy Bees, Ladies Shriners, Alzahran Court #58, Ladies Oriental Shriners of N.A., and the American Legion.

Warnock enjoyed watching sunsets at the beach.

Warnock was preceded in death by her husband of 64 years, Frank Warnock, in 2000. Survivors include daughters Nancy Steeley of Vancouver and Carol Long of Rainier, three grandchildren and six great-grandchildren.

An urnside service was held at Willamette National Cemetery, Portland, with Haakinson-Grouix Mortuary, Rainier, in charge of arrangements.