Non-Profit Org. U.S. Postage Paid The voice of the Vaughn, WA 98394 Key Peninsula Permit No. 2 BOX HOLDER

Vol. 31 Issue 7 From The Key Peninsula Civic Center Circulation 8,000 JULY 2004

In this issue Celebrating our veterans, freedom

A day in Heads are bowed at a reading of the names of the life 207 veterans whose burial flags flew over a of a brightly sunlit Vaughn Cemetery this Memorial ferry Day.The annual event, sponsored by the Key Peninsula Veterans Institution, is a moving captain testimonial to those whose service embraced the page 19 several branches of the U.S. military all the way back to the U.S. Revolution, and played host as well to Canadian, United Kingdom, Scotland and Belgian veterans’ flags. KPVI president Cy Young shared the program with, among others, Art Brown and Bill Micenko in full highland Scot regalia on the bagpipes, Dean Draeger, Kawn Schaefer, Chris Draeger, Greg Dorries, and Troy Nary who harmoniously sang the National First Anthem and other patriotic tunes, and Pacific GED Lutheran University student Tyler Nugent and ‘class’ University of Washington student Matthew Henriksen who ended the ceremony with a graduates beautiful rendition of taps. As we celebrate our page 6 Independence Day, the Key Peninsula News would like to extend our thanks to all the men and women who are serving and have served our country to keep it free. Photo and story by Hugh McMillan

doors, it was stripped clean. Auto thefts on the rise “It appeared to me that whoever chopped it knew what they were doing News By Rodika Tollefson discovery the Tacoma resident found on and had experience,” he said. Wauna Town meeting . . . .3 KP News his Rocky Bay land within the last year. The vehicle, an ’88 Honda Prelude, Museum expansion plans . .5 On closer inspection, the retired was stolen from a Gig Harbor resident, Farewell to two principals .13 On a recent Saturday afternoon, Roy welder discovered one more thing: The and according to the police report, “it In search of Lake Kathryn .18 Lampson discovered something that vehicle condition appeared to be the appeared to have been on the property From pioneer stock . . . . .22 didn’t belong on his property: the work of a professional. There wasn’t Kitesurfing at Purdy Spit . .24 carcass of a car. It was the second such much left of it, either—no engine, no (See THEFTS, Page 20) The Genuine ARTicle . . . .26 Fair is a-comin’ ...... 27 John Parker: A big heart . .28 Coolican addresses Promise to Youth Out & About ...... 32 By Hugh McMillan district to a ‘great’ school district, we KP News must have the mindset of no excuses Sections regarding students achieving their full Peninsula Views ...... 4 In early June, more than 30 community potential.” Business ...... 7 members including a good number from “Education reform has taken the the Key Peninsula met at Peninsula High nation from universal access to universal Schools ...... 8 School to hear school district proficiency,” he said, stressing the Community Works . . . . .16 Superintendent Jim Coolican discuss the district’s commitment to student People & Lifestyles . . . .18 importance of “Developmental Assets” achievement. Photo by Hugh McMillan Arts & Recreation . . . . .24 and community and educational Coolican highlighted student survey Superintendent Jim Coolican addresses the History ...... 29 partnerships. He emphasized that, “as results cited in the Promise to Youth Promise to Youth Community Leadership the district moves from a ‘good’ school (See PROMISE, Page 10) forum in June at Peninsula High. 2 Key Peninsula News

characteristics of the Home planned valuation of the property.” This will lower There’s no place like Home community, and produce a design manual property taxes for 10 years. to guide remodeling, new construction Property owners must apply for the and building additions. special tax valuation within two years of By Irene Torres The purpose of these activities is to beginning the construction activity. KP News To find out more maintain the significant historical Construction-related expenses, including For information and application character of the community. fees for architects and permits, qualify for Eighty-five years after the Mutual Home forms, contact Airyang Julia Park in the Two workshops to benefit homeowners this special valuation tax relief. Certain Colony was dissolved by a judge’s order, Planning and Land Services are planned for public input. Home restrictions apply to the qualifications for the Home community is receiving Department, Pierce County. Another residents can take advantage of financial tax incentives. The property must either attention once again. This time, the public workshop will be scheduled in incentives designed to encourage be visible from a public right-of-way, or be attention is favorable, with formal the upcoming weeks. Call 798-2783. compatible rehabilitation of existing made available for public viewing once a recognition of the area as the first planned homes and businesses. Airyang Julia Park, year, according to the Pierce County community in Pierce County. for their actions, no matter how much Pierce County historical preservation Planning and Land Services. Growing to more than 200 acres with those actions deviated from the officer, cited an example: “If a property Once described as a “dilapidated over 200 inhabitants, it was platted in established custom of the era. owner invests more than 25 percent of the community” by J.C. Harrison in his 1901. Populated by householders who These days, residents of Home have a assessed value of improvements publication Solidarity, Home now has the shared a utopian vision, Home displayed unique opportunity. With a grant, the (buildings) on his or her property, in a means and the motivation to flourish and “an absence of all laws, rules, and Pierce County Historical Landmarks manner consistent with keeping or to disprove the words of radical author regulations,” wrote founder Elmer Verity Commission will undertake a historic restoring important historic elements of Emma Goldman describing Home as an in 1897. They all agreed not to condemn survey, conduct an inventory of sites to the building, the invested dollar amount “anarchists’ graveyard” in her any of their neighbors or ostracize them enhance information on the physical will be subtracted from the assessed autobiography, “Living my Life.” New park district to select officers Your chance to be heard The Community Council elections By Rodika Tollefson business. The MPD board is also working “We have agreed it’s a strictly voluntary were approaching at press time, and the KP News with KPPRD on transfer of assets and position,” she said. The district will, first elected Key Peninsula Community inter-local agreement before the KPPRD however, hire a part-time, seasonal Council was set to start work in July. But The newly created Key Peninsula can be dissolved. employee to work on weekends and as as organizers were rounding up their Metropolitan Park District has been “We are holding over some of the needed, and anyone age 18 and older work, they had several jobs unfinished. meeting concurrently with the Key Pen existing committees like Friends of Rocky interested in a summer job is One of the biggest was to compile a Parks and Recreation District since its Creek and Friends of Home Park. We are encouraged to call Commissioner Jerry survey, which gives residents a chance to creation in May, but the new taking baby steps,” Clinton said, adding Schick at 884-1560. identify their priorities and concerns. commissioners were planning their first that some felt no need for a big Several MPD representatives were also The sub-committee that developed the independent meeting at the end of June ceremony and instead were eager to “get planning to visit the Si View MPD in extensive survey was planning to compile to select officers and launch into other down to business.” Gig Harbor’s MPD North Bend, created more than a year the results that would give the new business discussions. An estimated had one such ceremony in June, with ago, to discuss their experience. council a starting point. payment of $10,000 for the month of May Pierce County Councilman Terry Lee “We’re putting together projects that “We are all ears, if you have something was expected to be received from the and others present for the celebration. begin with the re-invigoration of good or bad to say about the Key county, based on the month’s collected Clinton said the first big expense would Volunteer Park and will expand outward Peninsula, this is your chance,” said zoo/trek taxes. probably involve the much-needed to develop other recreational projects,” Denise Carron who helped design the The MPD has started practically from replacement of the tractor mower, a said Commissioner Caril Ridley, adding survey that has been improved several scratch, and Commissioner Kip Clinton, hand-me-down from years ago from that KPMPD will look for grants and times and now includes categories from who is also on the KPPRD board, said by- another park jurisdiction. One decision volunteer help to continue in the same police and land use to activities for kids laws, a mission statement and a priority was firm so far: The commissioners will “good old barn raising enthusiasm” as has and economic development. “The goal is budget would be the first order of not request a per diem stipend, she said. been the tradition on the Key Peninsula. to give the new directors an idea of what’s important to the community.” Although the surveys were previously

To subscribe, please write, Executive editor: Rodika Tollefson Contributors: L. Brudvik Lindner, distributed at the Livable Community call or fax: Ad sales: Karen Hale Dana Shaw Fair, locations such as the library and at Key Peninsula News Staff writers and contributors: Publishing Committee chairman: group presentations, Carron said the William C. Dietz, Hugh McMillan, Bill Trandum 17010 S. Vaughn Rd. committee is currently using the Key P.O. Box 3, Vaughn, WA 98394 Colleen Slater, Irene Torres, Webmaster: Paul Pattee Phone (253) 884-4699 Danna Webster Submissions deadline: Third Peninsula News as the main way to Fax: (253) 884-4053 Distribution: Phil Bauer Monday of each month disseminate it (see survey on page X). Email [email protected] Production: September Hyde www.keypennews.com Anyone who has previously picked up a Key Peninsula News is published monthly by the Key Peninsula Civic Center Association at the Key Peninsula Civic Center in Vaughn, Washington. Copyright 2003 with all rights reserved. Reproduction of editorial or graphic survey as well as KP News readers are contents in any manner without permission is prohibited. Annual subscriptions (12 issues) are available for $20.00 and are mailed first class. Copies are mailed presort standard to residents and post office box holders of the Key Peninsula. Single copies are available at the newspaper office in the basement of the Civic Center annex and at various distribution points located on the Key Peninsula. Approximately 18,000 people live in the distribution area. strongly encouraged to voice their views STATEMENT OF OWNERSHIP, AND OPERATION OF THE KEY PENINSULA NEWS and return the surveys. Carron said that 1. THE KEY PENINSULA NEWS is a community newspaper, owned and published by the KEY PENINSULA CIVIC CENTER ASSOCIATION, a nonprofit, 501-C3, corporation with main offices in Vaughn, Washington. The name, goodwill and any copyright assets that may exist pertaining to the NEWS are among the financial assets of the KEY PENINSULA CIVIC CENTER ASSOCIATION. the immediate goal was to have feedback 2. The objective of Key Peninsula News is to support and create community by reporting news and features and providing a forum for local information. News and editorial coverage focuses on the Key Peninsula and for the new council, then the immediately adjacent areas within Fire District 16. OUR GRATEFUL THANKS TO ALL WHO CONTRIBUTE TO THE KEY PENINSULA NEWS! information gathering would continue in The opinions expressed herein are the opinions of the writers and do not necessarily reflect the views of the publishers or staff. All letters to the editor must be signed and include a daytime phone number for verification. No anonymous letters will be published. Submissions are used on a space available basis and may be edited if used. THE KEY PENINSULA NEWS reserves the right to edit all submissions for length and content. Mail letters to: P.O. upcoming months so more interested Box 3, Vaughn, WA 98394, or email to [email protected] residents could participate. July 2004 3 ‘Town meeting’ discusses Wauna traffic, building By Danna Webster summation. A gentleman in the audience Moderated by Nancy Lind of KP News piped up that these traffic problems were Friends of Wauna Post Office, the on a five-year plan when he moved out Wauna Town Meeting panel The third public meeting by the here and that was 26 years ago. included, left to right, Garry Friends of the Old Wauna Post Office was The discussion turned to the condition Schalliol, director of Heritage held to discuss the two most important of the Old Wauna Post Office. Lantz said Resource Center for Washington subjects: the traffic on State Route 302 although the building is “no architectural State Historical Society, Sen. Bob and the historic building. The traffic jewel,” it is evidence of what we had on Oke, Rep. Pat Lantz, and solution was summed up by one woman our waterfront from the days of the water Department of Transportation in the audience after listening to a highways. Regional Director Randy Haim. regional director of Washington State “This little, modest, falling-down Department of Transportation, a state building represents something senator and a state representative: An significant in our district,” she said. increase in the traffic and more deaths Lantz is co-chair of the Heritage Photo by Danna Webster would place SR-302 on the highway Caucus, which oversees applications of budget priority list. Unfortunately, she cultural facilities like the Old Wauna Post the people who want it moved are Area and at Home Park. She said she wasn’t much off the mark. Office. The building is a good candidate adamant,” while other voices in the wants to do the same for the Purdy Sand Regional State Highway Director for funding, according to Garry Schalliol, audience chimed out, “It’s the traffic”…. Spit. “It’s criminal how filthy that sand Randy Haim explained the work done by director of the Heritage Resource Center “It’s an eyesore.” spit is,” she said. “The county is not going his department and their budget. He for Washington State Historical Society. Paul Garrison, a Wauna resident, to do it.” discussed the priority list for the so-called He explained that matching funds are offered the suggestion that a replica of The Friends of the Old Wauna Post “Nickel Tax” money and that SR-302 is used for modest projects like this. For the building could be built on some Office will take the building restoration not on that list. He mentioned that a vote every dollar the state puts in, the project nearby state property, to which Lind proposal to KP Metro Park District for on the Regional Transportation puts in two and the project dollars can be replied, “I’m not really interested in insurance authorization and they will ask Improvement District (RTID) plan has “in-kind” monies. another building.” the state for funding support, Lind said. been postponed until November 2005. Tim Kezele, president of the Key Lind told the audience earlier, “I like to So, as the Bard said, “to be or not to be: That plan would provide a budget for Peninsula Historic Society said “in-kind” clean up,” describing her cleanup that is the question”—one that’s still up some highways not on the Nickel Tax list. support is already available for the projects at Rocky Creek Conservation in the air for that little piece of history. However, there is an uphill battle to building. One lumber company has persuade voters to vote for more tax. offered materials and there are people Sen. Bob Oke pointed out that when willing to do the work. “From a historic the monorail was approved, the car tab view, it fits right into our mission,” Kezele was increased by $400. Rep. Lantz added said. He added that the Old Wauna Post that it’s a common plaintive of voters that Office, which represents the days of the they are already paying for the bridge. Mosquito Fleet, is one of the few historic Add those complaints to the increase in buildings left on the Peninsula because gas at the pumps and a tax increase many others have been torn down or doesn’t look pretty. burned down. Kezele reported that According to Haim, an estimate for improvement efforts were halted last improvements for two highways in our year and the roofing has become region, one of them being SR-302, is $143 unstable. Already there is some new million. Oke said the state is about $50 water damage to the interior so it is million behind what is needed for roads important to have a new roof before the and bridges. “Far apart between the rains of next winter. needs and revenues,” was Haim’s One resident commented, “It seems 4 Peninsula Views Key Peninsula News Editorial Key Peninsula Community Plan Your chance to sound out recent survey taken at the have a summer home at the beach. County Fire District #16, the Peninsula Local residents have complained for Livable Communities Fair That’s why it’s important to have in School District, the Key Peninsula years about lack of services on the Key A held on the Key Peninsula place a plan which will direct that Business Association, development Peninsula. There are plenty of issues to indicated a strong community interest growth, address associated traffic interests, parks and open space go around —bad traffic, bad roads, lack in responsible land issues, and keep the character of the interests, the Key Peninsula Gig of law enforcement, the list goes on. So use planning, Key Peninsula intact. Harbor Islands (KGI) Watershed when the citizens are given the chance to including prevention A community plan will provide Committee, and local residents. If you voice their concerns, they would seize of sprawl, saving the residents, property owners, business are interested in participating as a the opportunity and start talking. Right? rural character of the people, and Pierce County government member of the CPB, I encourage you Not according to the Community peninsula, providing with a detailed sense of how the to contact my office for an application. Council organizers, who have been protection for the community wants the Key Peninsula to We anticipate the CPB will be created trying to get the residents’ opinions on rights of farmers, and develop in the future and what and begin work this fall. local priorities. A comprehensive survey, improving the LEE standards could be utilized to create The process of creating a community circulated by the Community Council, permitting process. and maintain the look and feel plan includes many open meetings and brought back five dozen replies or less. Additional concerns related to safety, envisioned in the plan. The plan will public hearings designed to gather the The council does not have the power conservation and protection of the identify actions necessary to input of citizens and incorporate those to raise taxes. It is giving the community environment, improving implement the community plan, desires into a unique plan developed a chance to voice concerns. The survey transportation and infrastructure, including adopting or revising land use to address the specific needs of the Key will be used to prioritize the work of the promoting local business, and regulations, identifying priorities for Peninsula and to protect the quality of newly elected directors. providing activities for youth. use of public funds to develop physical life which you enjoy here. This plan If you have complained about lack of this Because of this interest, I proposed a improvements such as better roads, will be developed by Key Peninsula or that, tell the council what you like (or resolution to the Pierce County water-related improvements, and park citizens for the future of the Key don’t like) about living on the Peninsula. Council to initiate a community plan development, social programs, and Peninsula. They are listening, and their group voice, for the Key Peninsula and to fund its economic programs. For information about the in turn, will be heard by officials who have development. The community plan will be community plan, contact Mike Kruger the power to improve services. Why does the Key Peninsula need a developed under the direction of the at 253-798-2700. Get a pen, turn to page 9, check community plan? I believe with the Key Peninsula Community Planning boxes, then mail the survey in—it can’t completion of the second Narrows Board (CPB), a group representing a get any simpler than that. Let us all stop Bridge, we will see an influx of people variety of interests and geographic Terry Lee represents the Key Peninsula on complaining and start contributing by at who see an easier approach to a locations of the community. the Pierce County Council. To contact his least filling out a survey, if nothing else. relatively untapped, beautiful area—an Representation may include: office, you may e-mail him at area where they might like to live or Peninsula Light Company, Pierce [email protected] or call 253-798-6654.

Letters to the Editor description of their motor vehicle. The second equally civil meeting in another good job at Rocky Creek All police information has been March focused on the horrific traffic in Conservation Area on June 7. These Resident cautions boat forwarded to my insurance company. the Wauna corridor and Terry Lee and women are so valuable to us for the owners Now I have to come up with $500 out of Lois McMahan were the guests. We are cleanup work that they perform once a my pocket to meet the deductible. all concerned about that dangerous month in this well used park. I was told by I want to thank the Pierce County Ned Swanson stretch of road but it isn’t on the radar a resident recently that he sees many Sheriffs Department, Officer Delgado, Vaughn of WSDOT so far. Some day, hopefully. people using the trails. Last evening 50 and Mark Runions, the harbormaster at The third meeting was in June when kids and many adults from the LDS church the Longbranch Marina, for the rapid both issues were discussed with guests had their annual work and barbecue and it recovery of my missing 2003 17-foot Volunteer expresses thanks Sen. Bob Oke, Rep. Pat Lantz, Garry was awesome. They cleaned up garbage, Boston Whaler boat that was moored in Schalliol, Director of Heritage walked and snipped the trail, weed front of my home on Dutchers Cove. I have been an extremely fortunate Resource Center of the Wash. State whacked and had hamburgers. Lu Winsor, The boat suffered approximately $1,200 person and I haven’t expressed often Historical Society and Randy Hain, whose dedication to this park was so damage over a 12-hour period in May. enough how appreciative I am of so Regional Director of the Puget Sound profound, would have been very pleased. The thieves apparently had been casing many people that have helped me with region for WSDOT. It was a recap of Another big THANK YOU to Marty our neighborhood for several days. The the projects I get involved in. This is a the first two meetings with some more Marcus, who initiated a picnic table thieves trespassed through a neighbor’s letter to say THANK YOU! Thank you to perspective from our distinguished project for Home Park, to the KP yard, took their kayak and accessories, all the people who attended the first very guests. Some have said nothing got Business Association for funding, to Bill and rowed out and jump-started my well mannered meeting at the Civic resolved but I believe that before you Macarras’ Boy Scout Troop for building ignition system. Center in January which gave us all a get resolution you get information and the table and to Loyd Miller and Phil I strongly urge all South Sound chance to hear the concerns and the that’s what was accomplished. It cost Bauer for pouring the concrete and residents to be aware of any suspicious desires of several residents of the Key me some money but it was worth it. finishing the table. activities, and most importantly, don’t Peninsula about the restoration of the Thank you to everyone who attended I am quite awed with so much support just tie up your boat; find a way to lock Wauna Post Office. The guests that night and for your input. This is the from the community and it proves to me it up. were Terry Lee, County Councilman, democratic Town Meeting style where that these areas that have been cleaned The good news is that the sheriff’s Airyang Park, County Historic places everyone gets to be heard. up are very valuable to our park system. Department has a complete physical facilitator and Tim Kezele, President of Another THANK YOU to the women of Nancy Lind description of the culprits and a the KP Historical Society. the Washington Corrections Center for Home July 2004 5 Museum expansion Fire district gears for ‘big’ month By Rodika Tollefson “The plan was to have a KP News regional maintenance facility plans on hold…for now July looks to be a big month for Fire and we’ve been working on it District 16, with the expected arrival of for a couple of years.” By Rodika Tollefson four new firetrucks and the anticipated KP News Visit the museum opening of the Wauna fire station. - Chief Eric Nelsen Do you want to know more about The district was expected to take As someone who grew up on the Key your history? delivery of its first truck by the end of for vehicle maintenance at the facility, Peninsula, Tim Kezele seemed like the The Key Peninsula Museum is open June, and if all goes as planned, it will which will mean savings for the district. perfect choice to become the president Thursday and Saturday from 1 p.m. to be in service by middle of July, The smaller vehicles will continue to be of the local historical society. So when 4 p.m. during the summer and according to Capt. Guy Allen. The serviced locally at car shops. he was asked to do the honors about a volunteer docents are eagerly waiting other three new rigs were anticipated to “The plan was to have a regional decade ago, he agreed but on one to share. The museum is located at be in service by the end of the month. maintenance facility and we’ve been condition: He had to get a museum the Civic Center in Vaughn. If you’d Before the trucks can be used, they working on it for a couple of years,” along with the job. like to join the roughly 140 members must be outfitted with the proper Nelsen said. Previously, FD-16 shipped A few months later, he did, and the of the society, call the Civic Center at equipment and all personnel must be its broken-down firetrucks to Tacoma, Key Peninsula Museum was born. 884-3456. trained to operate them. Chief Eric Bremerton and other locations. Heading to its 10-year anniversary next Livingood Nelsen said in late May that The opening of the new Wauna fire summer, the museum features another just need more active participants.” the plan was to give one truck each to the station, delayed while some dream along with its displays of Funded largely by membership Key Center, Wauna, Home and Wright construction issues were solved, was artifacts—plans for an expansion that dues—which started at $1 per year and Bliss (Vaughn) stations while keeping also expected in the upcoming weeks. would about double its space, add more are now $10—as well as book sales and two old ones at the other two stations Nelsen said an inspection for a displays and finally create a home for contributions, the museum also and two more for backup and training. certificate of occupancy was due after treasures that are now stored away. depends on grants but last year it had One of the reserve trucks will be kept at details like a fence were finished up, Jim Olson, a renowned Seattle-based none. Kezele said they were “pretty the new maintenance shop operated by and in the meantime staff was going to architect whose family has lived in impressed to make it the whole year Gig Harbor’s Fire District 5. FD-16 signed start moving in furniture and Longbranch for more than nine without grants.” an interlocal agreement with Gig Harbor equipment. decades, has even offered to come up The expansion idea was dedicated to with conceptual drawings. The dream longtime residents John and Addie includes a second room, a glassed-in McMenamin, who left for California a front porch and a wheel-chair-accessible few years ago. Kezele, an avid collector courtyard. of historical objects he routinely saves But despite much enthusiasm about from all over the Peninsula, said the project a couple of years ago, the potential additional displays would drawings are on the back burner for include the buggy used by late Elmer now. The reason, said Kezele, who is still Olson for courting and a tall band saw the KP Historical Society president, is circa 1882. lack of enough volunteers to help carry “We have the vision and the need and current programs and projects let alone I believe we have the support,” Kezele develop new ones. said. As the museum heads toward its “Our volunteer core is so small that anniversary next year, perhaps its we’re focusing on keeping the museum ambition will grow beyond an operating and trying to build our architect’s rendering and the collective membership,” Kezele said “The same memories of the community will get a people are trying to do all the work, we bigger home. 6 Key Peninsula News

Path planning moves ahead A recent meeting of interested citizens GED program graduates ‘Class of 2004’ who discussed the creation of a new bike and pedestrian path along KP Highway created a list of concerns that organizers will address, such as landscaping and signs. But aside from those details, the biggest work ahead is identifying funding and working with Pierce County to make sure the path meets requirements and regulations. Simon Priest, one of the local residents spearheading the effort, says many people have come forward with donations and offers of help. Surveying, brush cutting and path clearing are some of the tasks involved. The path will stretch between Home Park and the Key Center Library and will be used by joggers, kids riding bikes or walking to their bus stop, or anyone else looking for a walkable area. The 4.5-mile paved path will not widen the road, nor will it require easements from property owners, Priest said. It will be between 4 and 6 feet wide. Photo by Hugh McMillan “We are at the exploration stage. It’s a In June at Evergreen Elementary,Tacoma Community College representatives presented GED certificates of graduation for 19 concept that the community said it wants graduates at the first Key Peninsula GED Graduation ceremony. Fourteen proud, elated graduates able to attend, whose ages and needs,” Priest said. “We hope it will spanned decades, were Stephanie Higgins,Tonia Houle, Sandra Huffman, Lisa Hutchinson, Alissa Kegher, Stephene Latham, be built in the spirit of Volunteer Park.” Joseph Lindhartsen, Attida Malo, Kyle Mason, Diane Merritt, Jamie Mikelsen, Bonnie Phillips, Shayne Reynolds, Jesse Thomas, For details, contact Jimmy Livengood Kym Williams, Derrick Wolbert, Debra Worley, Kaida Worley, and Louis Worley. Congrats, graduates! at 857-6484. Accidents, fires: Price of littering goes beyond fines Litter and it may hurt in more ways than you think—Washington state officials are warning residents. This summer, the state Department of Ecology is continuing its campaign to reduce the amount of litter that lands on the state’s highways by reminding drivers about the fines and dangers associated with their actions. “In 2002, some 350 car accidents involved litter or road debris,” said Cullen Stephenson, who manages DOE’s solid- waste program. “Such accidents can have tragic results. Most could be avoided simply by tying down or covering loads.” Drivers can be fined $194 for failing to secure a load, and costs can escalate if an accident is caused. Lit cigarettes pose another threat, with drought-like conditions and dry forests causing concerns about wildfires. “Based on these concerns, the Legislature has upped the fine for tossing a lit cigarette to $1,025,” Stephenson said. About 352 pounds of litter about 3,000 cigarette butts are picked up for every mile of highway in the state, the agency said. Fines for illegal dumping also have been increased, to up to $5,000 and jail time. If you see someone littering, call toll-free 866-LITTER1. July 2004 Business 7 Teacher shares inviting home, love Chamber of By Dana Shaw commerce looks KP News at economic Down the wooded lane and up the cobblestone path to Deanna Williams’ cozy Nature’s Child Montessori school development in Lakebay is an atmosphere as inviting inside as it is scenic outside. By Rodika Tollefson Children ages 3-6 find an enthusiastic, KP News loving teacher eager to start their learning. Learning the Montessori way Trying to change the “them and us” means seeing, hearing and feeling, mentality that often separates the Gig Williams says. They don’t just say or write Harbor and Key Peninsula, the Gig the ABCs, for example, they feel them. Harbor/Key Peninsula Chamber of They run their little fingers over Commerce has launched an effort to help sandpaper letters while saying aloud the Photo by Dana Shaw the areas work together at economic sound the letters make. Deanna Williams demonstrates some of the interactive games used at the school. development and help businesses improve Does it really make that big of a the economic climate, expand and thrive. difference? she was enrolled in a Montessori today. In May, chamber representatives had the The founder of the method, Maria school. She went from drawing black Williams handles between 10 and 12 chance to hear out the local business Montessori, discovered it worked very angry pictures to drawing Carebears students September through June. The owners, in a neighborhood forum that was well with mentally handicapped and rainbows. This inspired Williams to price is $3,500 a year for full time and part of the chamber’s strategy to reach children. She wondered what would start her own school, she says. She $1,900 for half-day. Parents can also pay specific geographic areas and industries. happen if she tried it on other children received her Montessori teaching monthly. The concerns raised were not new, with — and found they learned even faster. certificate from the University of Puget Along with the Montessori lessons she health, building and land-use permits Deanna Williams noticed the Sound, then converted her home into teaches Spanish and plays the piano for causing the top frustrations, and the difference in her own daughter when the friendly, inviting little school it is singing time. business owners feeling stuck when trying to deal with the county. “You can’t get anything built without permits. We heard horror stories about having to jump hoops,” said Bob Dragoo of Peninsula Light, chairman of the chamber’s economic development committee. Dragoo said Gig Harbor business owners had expressed similar sour points in the past and the chamber has been working with the city to streamline some of the permitting processes. Now, their plan is to communicate what they heard to Pierce County. He said county and health department representatives will be invited to upcoming public affairs forums that the chamber holds every week. “We need to become the nerve endings for this community,” Dragoo said. The Key Peninsula forum was the first of several neighborhood meetings planned, part of the chamber’s strategy for addressing business growth and expanding its outreach. The approach also includes the creation of a task force to look specifically at growth issues, and so-called S.W.O.T.—a group that meets with individual businesses to talk about their strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats. “Growth will happen whether we plan it or not. We need to look at growth not just in a small microcosm, and we need to start working together,” Dragoo said. Businesses interested in learning more about the economic development efforts should contact the chamber at 851-6865. 8 Schools Key Peninsula News Show & Tell

Photo by Irene Torres Above,The KPMS band, students of Meg Mansfield, entertained a crowd at Jerisich Park during the Maritime Gig Festival in June. Right, Key Pen’s Lorina Schaufler, who was an artist in resident as part of Two Waters Arts Alliance Artists in School program, is showing Minter Creek Elementary students how to decorate plant pots using “recycled treasures.” Photo by Rodika Tollefson Bottom right, Vaughn Elementary fourth grade students are nearly ready to celebrate the end of the year—launching rockets seemed like a good way. Photo by Hugh McMillan

Left, Key Peninsula Middle School science teacher Kareen Borders gets ready to present details about the school’s new partnership with NASA to the school board. Right, Christian Larsen, a school psychologist at Vaughn and Harbor Heights elementaries, was honored in June with the school district’s Ellen Fay Award for Academic Excellence. Larsen was called an inspirational leader dedicated to students. He is seen here with Superintendent Jim Coolican who presented him with the award. Photos by Hugh McMillan July 2004 Schools 9

Kudos Wauna resident accepted to Student receives George Jamestown Fox University degree Emily Cox of Wauna was accepted to Jamestown College in North Dakota Gregory Dombek of Vaughn graduated beginning in the fall. Jamestown College is from George Fox University during the a liberal arts and science college affiliated midyear commencement ceremonies in with the Presbyterian Church. The May. Dombek received a bachelor of approximately 1,050 students may select science degree in biology. from 30 areas of interest and 17 programs. George Fox University is a Christian Cox is a graduate of Peninsula High university of the liberal arts, sciences, and School. She plans to major in history and professional studies that enrolls about participate in fastpitch softball. During 2,900 students at its campuses in Newberg, high school, she was active in fastpitch, Portland, Salem, Ore., as well as Boise. soccer and the National Honor Society. 10 Key Peninsula News

(From PROMISE, Page 1) Dennis Taylor of Safe Streets; Mike relationship and influence upon youth Kecham, director of YMCA’s Camp development. By working together to brochure provided all participants to Seymour; B.J. Bolson, co-principal of KP provide and build these assets for our emphasize the importance of Middle School; Koffe Kpachavi, director children we can consciously and community-school partnerships. “We can of Camp Colman; Dexter Reuhl and intentionally nurture our children to do anything but we can’t do everything,” Rochelle Doan of Communities in become competent, caring and he said. “All of us have a role in building Schools-Peninsula and, doubtless, successful adults.” assets for our community’s youth.” others. If you would like to know more about Among those attending were State Gig Harbor Peninsula Chamber of the Promise to Youth Community Reps. Pat Lantz and Lois McMahan and Commerce member Werner Karshner Leadership Team and the Developmental Pierce County Councilman Terry Lee. facilitated a discussion of various topics Assets, would like a copy of the Promise The Key Peninsula was well represented relevant to furthering the Promise to to Youth informational brochure, or by Cristi Watson, executive director of Youth developmental asset approach. He would like to have a speaker for your the Key Peninsula Community noted that, “Developmental Assets organization or group, contact Carol Services/Food Bank; Jacque Crisman, identify 40 concrete, positive qualities McLaughlin at 857-8183 or principal of Evergreen Elementary; and experiences that have a direct [email protected]. July 2004 Schools 11 KPMS hosts all-district middle school dance By Hugh McMillan Almost to a man (boy), KP News the guys awkwardly go Recently at the Key Peninsula Middle through motions they School, all four of our middle schools hope will be viewed as gathered for a DJ-led dance with music from all kinds of eras including even “in” dancing — that is, Glen Miller; the kids were dancing to those who aren’t looking “Moonlight Serenade.” As they would say, at the floor to be sure “Cool!” There was some musical stuff from this their feet are still there or period as well — played at a decibel level clustering like ants in guaranteed to mangle auditory nerves. “man” groups. Photo by Hugh McMillan The kids were full of themselves and A crowded dance floor of all four middle schools’ kids having a ball. laughter and good spirits and having a their lives. Something they’ll never wonderful fun-soaked evening of getting forget. girls? They danced with one another and Shaffer, Goodman assistant principal; to know one another. Kids from Don’t say you don’t remember your knew — how come they always do — what Thom Worlund, soon to be KPMS Kopachuck chatted with KPMSers, and dances at this age. Little has changed. the steps were. assistant principal; Shannon Wiggs, both danced with Goodman and Harbor Almost to a man (boy), the guys You didn’t do that? Come on! Kopachuck principal; Connie West, Ridgers. awkwardly go through motions they hope And while all this merriment was going Harbor Ridge assistant principal and Jay They joked, chatted in clusters, gyrated will be viewed as “in” dancing — that is, on, so unobtrusively you had to look hard Reifle, HRMS principal, were there to through dance routines that would make those who aren’t looking at the floor to for them, a caring group of make sure all was safe, happy, clean, and a pretzel blush, munched on goodies be sure their feet are still there or administrators including Barbara “BJ” reasonably orderly. from the snack bar and had the time of clustering like ants in “man” groups. The Bolson, KPMS co-principal; Sharon It was like stepping back in time. 12 Schools Key Peninsula News AFTER ‘OURS ‘rockets’ at Evergreen Elementary By Hugh McMillan Operation Smart, which was “geared for Wreskzki, who is still involved with the who are making a huge difference in the KP News fourth and fifth grade girls, and deals with program. He works with Christy King in children’s lives and adding to the success math, science and technology,” said Olga the class.” of the program.” Community volunteer and former high McDonald, After ‘OURS site coordinator “Some other classes offered were crafts, McDonald said anyone interested in school science teacher Chris Henderson at Evergreen. quilting, ceramics, science, harmonica, participating in the After ‘OURS program explained some of the fine points of “We have been trained by the YWCA. Spanish, and a cooking class, just to name in September may contact her at the bottle rocket engineering to students at Christy King, our Americorps volunteer, a few,” she added. “We have some school at 884-3393 or via email at an Evergreen Elementary School session has been leading the group. I am very wonderful volunteers for our program [email protected] of the AFTER ‘OURS program. The excited about the program and being able “rockets,” made from plastic beverage to offer it during AFTER ‘OURS.” bottles filled with water to various content She explained that Operation Smart is levels and charged with air pressure, are intended to enhance a desire in girls to launched by the students on the playing learn subjects that “normally are not of Up-Up-Away field to the delight of all participants. much interest to girls.” ”Rockets” are just one of the myriad “We had an AFTER ‘OURS journalism By Alexander M. bottle lifts in the sky. offerings of Evergreen’s AFTER ‘OURS, class,” said McDonald, “and it produced a Published in the Evergreen Update, It was a nice class because the which offered all sorts of classes during newsletter under the guidance of The AFTER ‘OURS Newsletter kids really liked the class. Eight out several sessions this school year, including Peninsula High School student Adam of 10 kids interviewed said, “I like it here once was a class. a lot.” They were making an air They had to stand far away so T rocket. It is made with they can’t get hit. The bottle has a bottles and it is pushed up with an tube, which has the air going air compressor. The bottle cap gets through the pipe and the pump tightened on the bottle and when blows the air and the bottle blows the string pulls the cap off, the air off. gets pushed up the bottle and the Reprinted with permission

Photo courtesy of Evergreen Elementary Community volunteer and former high school science teacher Chris Henderson explains some of the fine points of bottle rocket engineering to an Evergreen Elementary School fifth grader during a session of the AFTER ‘OURS program there.The “rockets,” made from plastic beverage bottles filled to various content levels and charged with air pressure, are launched by the students on the playing field to the delight of all participants. July 2004 Schools 13 KP schools bid farewell and thanks to principals

By Hugh McMillan Adams served in the Naval Reserve in KP News the 1950s and re-enlisted in 1975. He retired in December 1993 as a Chief Petty Among the 30 Peninsula School District Officer with 25 years of service. “I served in teaching and administrative personnel submarines, aircraft carriers, who are retiring this year, the Key communications and the Seabees. Over Peninsula will miss several giants who have half of my time was with the Seabees for long exemplified the excellence in whom I have a deep sense of pride and education for which they lived among us. affection,” he said. “Throughout my Among them are two principals who academic career, I have had the pleasure of have inspired local kids for many years: working with a dedicated and idealistic Above, Vaughn Vaughn Elementary’s Craig Shurick, after a group of people — educators — and the Elementary’s Craig 30-year career, and Key Peninsula Middle privilege of knowing and facilitating the Shurick opens School’s Jim Adams. learning of thousands of young people. presents at his Adams is bringing to a close 41 years of The satisfaction I receive from meeting retirement send-off dedicated service in education. His first former students who have in some way party in June. teaching job was at a junior high school in experienced success in their lives is Left, Jim Adams Napa, Calif. awesome and they pay me the highest during a recent In the late 1970s, Jim and his wife moved compliment of having been part of that political party for to Gig Harbor where both got teaching success.” Derek Kilmer, positions at Peninsula High School and Adams claimed there is nothing candidate for state brought into the world three children, remarkable about his career though he office this Heidi, Rob and Amy. He received a knew from an early age that he would be in November. master’s degree in education from the public service. “When I told my dad, a chemical “When I told my dad, a engineer, that I was going to be a teacher, Photos by he started to shake his head and stopped, Hugh McMillan chemical engineer, that I thought for a minute and said, ‘Well that’s was going to be a teacher, a noble profession but you won’t make extensive postgraduate work. has on kids came at a dance rehearsal in he started to shake his money in it.’ He, of course, was stating the He has a myriad of awards including the Vaughn music teacher Mary Farr’s class a obvious but he was right. It is a noble Association of Washington School few years ago. The youngsters practiced head and stopped, profession. It has been a rewarding career Principals’ Meritorious service award, and practiced until Farr asked, “Do you thought for a minute and and I am proud to be an educator.” Vaughn Elementary School’s 2000 think we’re ready to invite principal said, ‘Well that’s a noble Many of his students have asked, “But Leadership in the state’s most improved Shurick to our performance?” This was why is he leaving us? He’s so wonderful.” school award by the Gov. Gary Locke and greeted with a loud “Yes!” and a student profession but you won’t And literally thousands of our kids have State Instruction Superintendent Terry was dispatched at a dash to Shurick’s office, make money in it.’ He, of been the beneficiaries of Adams’ deeply Bergeson, and the Bill and Melinda Gates returning with him moments later. He was course, was stating the committed and highly professional care. Foundation School Principal Award. greeted with an enthusiastic roar that obvious but he was right.” Vaughn’s principal, Craig Shurick, also Shurick would be embarrassed to see listed would make any rock star jealous. leaves behind very big shoes to fill. many other distinguished honors of which Our kids — and their parents — will miss -Jim Adams “Can you imagine? They told me, ‘You he is recipient and the seven professional these wonderful educators and would no can’t teach (all) kids to read!’ Well, we associations of which he is a member. doubt join us in wishing them well in their University of Washington in 1985 and in showed them by producing some of the An early memory of the effect Shurick new dreams. 1987 completed the principal certification best readers in the district and in no time program at Western Washington at all,” he once said. “Our program is University. emulated all over the place, it’s so good.” “My goal was to be a principal of a No one, with any degree of impunity, middle school,” he said. In 1989, he began ever accused Shurick of a lack of fulfilling that goal with a transfer to Key determination to succeed— and the ability Peninsula Middle School where he taught to inspire others to do the same. social studies and health, coached track, He began his career by teaching science and served as ASB adviser. His first to grades 6-12 in 1978 and in 1982 he administrative job was as assistant principal began a nine year stint as assistant at Goodman Middle School, which led him principal at Gig Harbor High. He’s been to Kopachuck Middle School and a year at Vaughn since 1995. Before that, from later to KPMS, both times as assistant 1991, he was at Kopachuck Middle School. principal. He’s a Pacific Lutheran University “I eventually was assigned as principal of product, earning a bachelor of science, a KPMS and have finished this phase of my bachelor of arts in education, and a career as co-principal,” he said. master’s of education, as well as having 14 Key Peninsula News July 2004 15 Volunteers are the backbone of fire district

By Rodika Tollefson hours per month in training and KP News respond to at least five calls—which could be challenging for those working When the Key Peninsula’s fire district full-time jobs, but it’s a commitment they was created more than five decades ago, must make. it was operated by volunteers, and it took “You never know when a fire is going to more than 20 years to hire a paid happen; it’s tough working full time and firefighter. Much has changed since then just happening about a fire,” said Tony for the district, as technology advanced Carr, who started with the district three and population expanded. And although years ago as a volunteer and recently was the paid staff has slightly more than promoted to a temporary career doubled since 1986, volunteers remain position. “There have been days when I the backbone of the department. was out on a call until 4 in the morning “There are only five career (paid) and I had to get up at 5 to go to work. It’s firefighters working any day per shift a tradeoff you accept.” between all the stations,” said Capt. Paul When emergency personnel respond Bosch. “It’s very difficult to perform the to a call, however, there is no distinction work at a fire—we need the volunteers to of whether they are paid or not. Out support the career staff.” there in the community, a firefighter or a The district is comprised of 18 paramedic is just that, and everybody firefighters including the chief, does the job with equal professionalism. additional office staff, and more than 30 If you see them direct traffic at an Photo by Hugh McMillan volunteers including about a dozen who accident scene or fight a fire, all you see Fire District 16 volunteer and career personnel at a recent training, which is staged live at the fire stations. Most of the is one team of professionals putting their regularly. resident volunteers are pursuing this as a lives on the line to help others. career, though for FD-16 that may not “When we have our bunker gear on, someone not getting paid, part of the getting thanks from someone whose always be a good thing. you can’t tell the difference. We all do satisfaction for me is knowing you are family member you helped—that makes “We’re in a transition now where the the same job,” Bosch said. helping the community you live in, it worth it,” Carr said. typical volunteer is younger and looking With the budget being tight, the for a job; we don’t have a lot of district has not been able to increase its volunteers who are homeowners here,” career staff for about a decade—yet Bosch said. That means the volunteers population and the number of calls have train here then accept full-time jobs with been growing in the meantime. Bosch another fire district, and FD-16 has to said the district could use at least three start the training process all over for new more career personnel, but the funding recruits. doesn’t allow it. This process is demanding. Volunteers “The citizens of the Key Peninsula attend between 120 and 150 hours of fire should consider volunteering and and medical training before they can helping their neighbors. There is a job respond to calls; the training includes for everybody,” Bosch said. Anyone who practicing with live fire and physically is not qualified or doesn’t want to be demanding exercises. Recruits also must involved in rescue work can find plenty pass medical exams, background checks of things to do, from filing to helping and other basic requirements. direct traffic at accident sites. Volunteers have to spend at least six “Even if it’s time consuming for 16 Community Works Key Peninsula News

Public invited to hear are held every Tuesday evening in the about new hospital VFW room at the KP Civic Center. Weigh – in time is 6:00 p.m. and meeting starts Franciscan Health System will host two at 7:00 p.m. “town meetings” in July to update the —By Jena Henak community on the next steps of development for St. Anthony Hospital in Musicians, performers north Gig Harbor, to celebrate the state’s wanted for kids approval of the project, and provide more information about Zimmer Gunsul Easter Seals Camp Stand by Me began its Frasca (ZGF) Partnership, one of the summer season hosting groups of children preeminent architectural firms in the and adults with disabilities at the camp United States that has been hired to property on Vaughn Bay. The camp is design the facility. searching for volunteer performers— The meetings will be held: musicians, clowns, magicians and others— Tuesday, July 13, 7 p.m., Best Western and all styles are appreciated. If you have Wesley Inn, 6575 Kimball Drive, Gig an act you’d like to share with the campers Harbor and help create laughter or cheer during Thursday, July 15, 7 p.m, Key Peninsula Photo by Hugh McMillan their camp experience, call Suzie or Civic Center, 17010 South Vaughn Road, Alison at 884-2722. Vaughn. Big day for new Boy Scout troop Bible School at Vaughn Kids invited to summer Community Church On Saturday, June 12, Boy Scout Troop 272 held its first-ever fund-raising program breakfast at the Key Peninsula Community Services/Food Bank in Home. We are thrilled to have the opportunity Openings are still available for all KPCS is the troop’s sponsoring agency. The troop has only been together to do God’s All-Star Champions this July summer kids programs offered by Key some seven months but is well on the road to accomplishments under the 5 – 9h from 9 a.m – 11:30 a.m. Pre-school Pen Family Resource Center/Children’s direction of its Scoutmaster Mike Cope, Assistant Scoutmaster Kim Cope, and through fifth grade is invited to join us in Home Society: Merit Badge Counselor Stacey Voss. All proceeds from the breakfast are learning about sports and exploring who Evergreen Elementary School, dedicated to support of the troop with purchases of camping equipment, Jesus is! Space is limited, please contact Mondays and Tuesday, 9 a. m.-noon scholarships for those in need, and other scouting activities. Seen here from the church office at 884-2269 for details. Key Peninsula Civic Center, left front clockwise are Nate Ludwig, 11, Daniel Ludwig, 15, Brian Cope, 11, Wednesdays and Thursdays, 9 a.m.-noon Corey Cope, 13, all of whom are home schooled, Tyler Voss, 11, of Evergreen Summer Fun Youth Programs has a Elementary, and Kyle Cope, 16, also home schooled, and Scoutmaster Mike program for kids going into first through Cope. fifth grade next fall and also the “Middle School Mentors” for those going into sixth through eighth grade. The cost is shop stocked with new merchandise. We be our TOPS Ambassador. Friends, family $35 and scholarships are available. Call have been busy donating to good causes and others came by to see what TOPS 884-5433 for details. on the Peninsula. Last month we gave to #WA 1019, Vaughn is all about. This year the Community Fair, Minter Creek the TOPS (take off pounds sensibly) is ASHES holds sale Elementary and Rocky Bay for two focusing on couples. We are proud to scholarships for residents to attend camp announce that we have three couples in The Fire District 16’s auxiliary, ASHES, at Camp Easter Seal. our group and they all are an will hold a rummage sale August 7 from 9 If you think you would like to be an encouragement to us all. a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Key Center fire Angel and have the time to commit to Since this is a support group, why not station. Donations are welcome and may that, come into our shop and tell the clerk get your family involved and keep each of be dropped off the preceding Friday, and she will see that your name and you motivated all at the same time. It is August 6, between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. For information get to the right person. hard enough when you have to make information, call 884-4834 or 884-3771. There is a lot of hard work involved in separate meals for the family, but this way being an Angel but we all manage to have you get to share your time with your The Bayshore Garden Club a good time while we are working and spouse and family in helping with when we are through it is with a feeling of choosing a healthy lifestyle. The Bayshore Garden Club will meet at satisfaction. We are open from 10 to 4 Our walk around Home was an 1 p.m. July 2 at the Longbranch Fire Wednesday through Saturday. We have enjoyable one. We had five people walk Station. Hostess is Dorothy Rome and daily specials so come in and check on the whole distance and we even had a Anna Waldo will present “My Mother’s them. former member come and join us. She Garden.” Edith Pinder will have the —By Betty Barkubein always talks about how beautiful this walk horticulture presentation; the design along the waterfront is. Upon completing presentation to be announced. For TOPS June events a the walk the Lakebay chapter brought information, call Sylvia at 884-2487. success apples and water for everyone. Thank you Lakebay TOPS chapter! Angels wanted What an awesome way to start off the Summer is here, this is an opportunity summer with an “Open House” to bring to get outside and get some type of Summer is on us and the ladies of our Area Captain Carlene Wellington exercise. If you have questions, Jo at 884- Angel Guild are busy as usual getting the and her husband Gary who happens to 4220 or Jena at 884-3456. Our meetings July 2004 Community Works 17 Maritime Gig has KP flavor too

It may take its name after Gig Harbor but the Maritime Gig in June had lots of Key Peninsula flavor, as residents as well as many groups represented their community with pride, fun—and lots of candy. Seen here in far right photo, Vaughn Elementary runners, left to right: mom Tiphany Martinez, Cody Hanson, Dmitriy Sokviken,Tyler Richardson, Marcos Martinez, mom Kirsten Roberts, Adam Drage, Cole Martin, Alex Barna, Jesse Smith, and teacher Lori Harrison Hagen. Right, Peninsula School District’s radio station KGHP FM volunteer personnel, front to rear, Mike Schmitz and Cameron Smith, are on the balcony over the Gig Harbor/Key Peninsula Chamber of Commerce office handling the technical side of the station’s live broadcast of the Gig celebrations.The station’s teacher and administrator, Lee Smith, left rear, narrates live broadcasts of the annual event’s parade along Soundview Drive in downtown Gig Harbor. Photos by Hugh McMillan

Peninsula Adult Basic Education Program have fun. Contact Nancy Baskett at 798-3258. GET INVOLVED Key Peninsula Outreach needs to recruit tutors to help adults (16 and up) pass GED tests and/or build YMCA Camp Seymour basic skills in reading, writing, and math. Training is Volunteers needed to assist with the following summer Children’s Home Society provided. Contact Bob Strobe at 851-2424. camp programs for children 8 to 14: woodworking, Youth and adults needed to help with the Summer sailing. Lifeguard and/or instructor also needed for Fun Youth Program. Children’s Home Society also has Washington State University Pierce County community recreational swim and swimming lessons for an ongoing need for persons with office skills. Contact Extension 4-H Youth Development children. Contact Magill Lange at 884-3392. Edie Morgan at 884-5433. 4-H needs responsible, caring adults project and To submit a listing, call 884-4699 or email club leaders to mentor youth, teach life skills, and [email protected].

Volunteer program. I started out on the bottom events. with her, but worked hard over my 10 This year, the boys and girls were Spotlight: Elaine years in 4-H and became very successful involved in her 4-H group are between Hettick with her. I want to teach others that the ages 5-11. But she is quick to point they can succeed in whatever they do if out that projects are available through Photo and story by Danna Webster they work hard and put in the time.” the senior year of high school. “It’s a Elaine’s youngest daughter Shawna learning experience. It’s all about The 4-H Program that serves the has just turned 5 and this year will be teaching the kids life skills,” she says. Key Peninsula and Gig Harbor is her first opportunity to join 4-H. What Those skills include public speaking, young and still in its growing stages. would she choose for a 4-H project? formal presentations, record keeping, Elaine Hettick, a 4-H leader for Pierce “Maybe bicycle,” she says, “because I animal care, responsibility, community County 4-H, grew up in Gig Harbor can go very fast uphill.” Her mother service and being a team player. and now owns a farm near Horseshoe agrees and suggests gardening and The 4-H programs begin the first of Lake. goats as other possibilities. every October. Key Peninsula families The Hettick’s farm has three horses: Parents and children working as may sign-up now for the next new year. Orphan Annie, Toby and Wonder, a Elaine Hettick and daughter Shawna partners is the key to success in the 4-H There is a 4-H office at the Puyallup billy goat with nine new kids and with Orphan Annie. program. As long as the child has Fair grounds and sign-up sheets will other habitants. Orphan Annie is a parent help, Elaine is open to any be available at the Key Peninsula Fair friendly, well-mannered horse that work will eventually pay off,” Elaine project. The 4-H calendar is busy with in August. Interested families are came from a wild mustang herd off says. “I took my once wild mustang, meetings twice a month, parades, encouraged to call Elaine Hettick at the Oregon range. “I know that hard adopted in 1977, through the 4-H presentations at fairs, and special 253-851-7696. 18 People & Lifestyles Key Peninsula News In search of Lake Kathryn

ake Kathryn Village Mall. You’ve “I don’t know,” Shannon answered. “When people ask I tell them the Key Pen News), I eventually managed passed it hundreds, maybe “Maybe they paved it over,” Kathy put to corner Zimmerman, and demanded it’s back in the woods.” L thousands of times as you in. “You should talk to Don Zimmerman. the truth. “Where,” I wanted to know, “is entered or left Key Peninsula, but have He would know.” -Dawn, Peninsula Market the lake?” you ever been to the Maybe they were telling the truth, and “It’s out back,” Zimmerman insisted, lake itself? No? And maybe not. I went next door to the Coast I tell them it’s back in the woods.” “back beyond the trees. We bought 37 why is that? Is it hardware store, where I met Dave. “So, “And they buy that?” acres…and developed eight. The original because the lake is where’s the lake?” I asked, fastening him “Sure.” plan was to deepen the lake and build a hidden back in with what I’m fairly sure was a steely-eyed All the people I had spoken to were restaurant next to it. But you can’t alter some trees like some gaze. nice, but maybe a little too nice. Maybe the environment within a hundred feet of people claim? And “Out back,” Dave replied. “It’s a that’s the way they are, or perhaps there the lake without a wetlands permit and only fills with water seasonal lake. The original plan was to was something sinister behind those that isn’t going to happen.” during part of the clear the area, and build retirement smiles. Why would every single one of It sounds innocent enough, doesn’t it? year? Or is homes, but they couldn’t because of the them give the same sort of answers? And But did you notice the way that all of the something more William Dietz wetlands.” refer me to the same man? Unless they different accounts match up? As if sinister going on? I For Whatever “So, can I go out there?” had agreed on how to handle such everybody came together ahead of time? was sent to find out. It’s Worth “No,” Dave replied. “I’d rather that you inquiries ahead of time…and hoped to Yeah, that’s what I thought too. What if The obvious place didn’t. Not without permission from Don pull the wool over my eyes. the real Lake Kathryn is hidden to begin my investigation was at the Lake Zimmerman.” But one thing was obvious. The person somewhere on the Peninsula where only a Kathryn Village Mall. Starting with the Dave was hiding something, I figured, at the very center of the potential chosen few are allowed to enjoy its warm, Minter Veterinary Hospital, I went door and left the store. My next stop was the conspiracy was the mysterious figure crystal-clear waters? Leaving the rest of us to door, and asked each person I met the Peninsula Market Deli, where I ran into known as Don Zimmerman, who, clever to swim in chilly Horseshoe Lake? same question: “Where is Lake Kathryn?” Dawn. She was out on the loading dock man that he is, was hiding in the CostLess But not to worry… The search goes on. “I heard it was a swamp out back,” a taking a break. When I asked her about drugstore. Though evasive at first (he felt And if Lake Kathryn is out there, I’ll find lady named Sandy replied. the lake she shrugged. “When people ask his customers were more important than it—and let you know.

Key Pen resident needed for county board Derby cancelled, Pierce County Human Services is seeking individuals who would like to fishing goes on serve on the Aging and Long Term Care Advisory Board and is especially interested in members representing the Photo and story by Hugh McMillan Key Peninsula among other locations. The advisory board assists and advises In a drizzle that came and went most of last Saturday, Homer Larson Pierce County on services to the and Theresa Kissner were trying their luck at catching a bass at Key county’s aging and persons with Peninsula’s Jackson Lake. They weren’t aware that this was the date of the disabilities populations. KP Sportsmen’s Club annual bass fishing derby until two other vehicles Advisory board membership is open appeared with people asking for the derby site before disappointedly to individuals residing in Pierce County turning back. who have an interest in aging and long- The soggy weather apparently dissuaded several who had called the term care issues. sponsors to say they’d be there. Larson caught this barely legal size bass Interested persons should contact early on. At a chance meeting a few days afterward, he told the John Mikel, Pierce County Human photographer he later “caught the biggest, tastiest bass he’d ever seen; it Services, Aging and Long Term Care, was over 18 inches long.” He learned then that the derby had been 3580 Pacific Ave., Tacoma WA 98418- cancelled. 7915, by phone at 253-798-2823, or e- mail at [email protected]. July 2004 People & Lifestyles 19

The bow and stern on this boat are Making a link with the determined by which direction it travels. ‘rest of the world’ Identical controls are on both sides - End No. 1, and End No. 2. A wheel on each A day in the life side is for backup manual steering, but the usual mode is by hydraulic operated of a Herron Island rudder. The island homeowners own the ferry, captain renamed Charlie Wells in 1992 in memory of a much loved captain. Homeowners’ annual assessments pay for about half the operation and maintenance, and ferry fees provide the rest. Low tides sometimes cause cancellations and delays, but each By Colleen Slater, KP News resident can pick up a bi-monthly schedule of dates and times. Islanders aptain John Farris, Master of have chosen to arrange their days by the M/V Charlie Wells, sips coffee ferry schedule or have their own boats to C outside his Herron Island cross the water. home, listens to early morning birdsong The Charlie Wells has been a rescue and watches the antics of a new fawn ship in times past. One day Farris almost near enough to touch. Quiet. noticed a small aluminum boat with a Peaceful. It is an hour before the first Photos courtesy of Frank Slater man hanging on to the outside. The island ferry leaves the dock for the Above, Captain John Farris on the bridge of the ferry. Below, Steve Wiggins in the hapless fisherman had snagged a mainland on a Friday morning. wheelhouse. salmon, hauled it aboard, but the lawn Farris is a licensed U.S. Merchant Marine chair he’d been sitting in flipped and he officer with 30 years experience. He (manufactured) house over in 10 trailer Elementary. The only kindergarten went overboard. Captain Farris steered operated fishing boats, tugs, and loads one day,” says Captain John with a student will be back for the 12:30 p.m. the ferry north, helped the man back workboats before accepting the Herron smile. They had to schedule midweek, ride home. into his boat, and the story has become run. Weekday captain for nearly five years, and work in trailer loads as they could. It Captain and deckhand get a break an island legend. he greets friends and neighbors in line for was a busy day. between the 9 a.m. ferry in and the noon Another day, with squalls approaching, the 6:15 a.m. run, coffee mug in hand. On Memorial Day weekend, they ran run out and back. They usually have the ferry crew found a young man, with Donnie Surratt, cheerful deckhand, several shuttles. Nine hundred vehicles another breather until after 2, for the an East Coast accent, spinning around in directs the loading, and about eight for a three-day weekend isn’t unusual. going-home run. Today, with his 10-foot pram with broken oarlocks. minutes later, unloading on the Many houses on the island are used only construction workers leaving earlier than They towed him in and were only 15 mainland. The signal light is green, a summers and weekends. Some island usual, they need to shuttle at the noon minutes behind schedule at the reminder for pedestrians to stay off ramp residents plan ahead to shop and run passage. When there are too many cars mainland. Those waiting on the dock and dock while cars are in motion. A errands on other days so they can stay for one load — maximum is 12 — asked the crew what they’d been doing single high school student is among the home on Fridays. In contrast, this winter turnaround is quick and they do a out there, but most passengers sat in their first early commuters. when the snows were heaviest, the ferry shuttle. cars, read their papers, and didn’t notice First trip back to the island carries a carried only two cars in two days. Some Most Fridays, Steve Wiggins, weekend anything out of the ordinary. CenturyTel truck and several drivers had difficulty navigating the hill captain, takes over on the 6:30 p.m. run. Are the captains and crew ever bored? construction workers in assorted vehicles. above the landing. “The Islanders just He makes his last trip back to the island All three men working today say “No.” A manufactured and two log homes are stayed home,” said Farris. at 9 p.m. Today, he’s on duty earlier, so Every trip is different; no two days are being built on Herron. “We hauled the Every two years, the ferry goes to the Farris can make an appointment in town. alike. Weather, tides, wind, passengers shipyard for two weeks to be checked and Wiggins, who captained fishing and vary. Occasional whales are sighted, but repaired. Islanders are given the pleasure boats before moving to Herron only one so far this year. Seals are schedule well in advance, park their cars Island, has been operating the Charlie common, as are deer crossing between on the mainland, and commute by Wells about the same length of time as island and mainland. private boat. Farris. When the wind makes the waves too Back at the island, captain and This day the 4 p.m. has only three cars. rough for island docking, the ferry steers deckhand meet the islanders out of their David and Kevin jump off the school bus around to the north side of the island cars to wait for loading time. This trip and chatter as they board and move and idles until it is calmer. If the wind includes Terrill Farris, John’s wife, to inside the narrow cabin. The Surratt comes from the south on an outgoing substitute at the Key Peninsula Middle twins have ball practice on Fridays. tide, perhaps twice a year in the fall, School; Skylar Surratt, seventh grader; David has only lived on the Herron for Wiggins says waves may be three to four and mom Susie, also heading out to sub. five months. He loves the beach, but feet high. North winds have more effect Skylar loves island living for the quiet and hates his chore of scooping up and on the mainland dock, but wind feeling of safety. She doesn’t mind being disposing of deer poop. Kevin, an difficulties are not common. the only one her age, because she has islander since age 2, agrees about the What does Farris like best about this many summer friends — some who stay beach, but has perhaps a more agreeable work? “Being home every night. Not and start school with her. She also has chore — doing dishes. being on the ocean. Living on an island.” three younger sisters. Two boys and three On the run back to the mainland, It’s a great life for these special people girls also take the 8:30 a.m. ferry from the Wiggins invites two visitors to the who operate the Herron Island link to island to catch the bus to Evergreen wheelhouse after the boat is underway. the mainland. 20 Key Peninsula News

(From THEFTS, Page 1) Patrol. “It’s easy to conceal in the rural in auto thefts, they have been on the rise areas.” in Washington, and year 2000 had What you can do for an extended period of time.” Some of the criminals scout malls and highest number in state history. Sgt. Ross Herberholtz with the Pierce other areas for cars, sometimes close to “It’s very common for stolen cars to If you suspect illegal activity, call County Sheriff’s Peninsula Detachment their “operation” but often miles away. end up in a chop shop, even SUVs and 798-INFO, a centralized county hotline said such reports are not uncommon in Small Hondas and Toyotas are especially big pickup trucks, but especially small that accepts all complaints about illegal their service area, which encompasses popular because they can be stripped Hondas and Toyotas,” Herberholtz said. dumping or junk vehicles and forwards Gig Harbor and the Key Peninsula. “We “within moments,” but it’s not unusual Although taking precautions is not a them to the appropriate authorities. know they (chop shops) are going on at to see a town car or an SUV involved. sure-proof guarantee, you can minimize The hotline is part of an effort called different places and they are difficult to “You can find them in the middle of the chances of having your vehicle Pierce County Responds, a multi- come across…A lot of times deputies Puyallup but it’s more convenient to do stolen by following basic steps like trying agency anti-blight effort. are in pursuit of something else and it in the remote areas like the Peninsula, to park in well-lit, well-traveled areas If you find a vehicle that appears they stumble into a chop shop,” he said. where it’s easy to store a car,” Dean and not leaving the keys in the ignition dismantled or you suspect criminal Several agencies are working together Fenton, a detective with the WSP’s auto —not even private subdivisions are safe. activity, you can also report the crime on the problem, including the sheriff’s theft criminal investigation division, Special tracking technology can be to the county sheriff’s office at 798- office, Washington State Patrol and said. “Parts are either sold, exchanged installed in the car that activates a signal 4721. Pierce County Planning, which enforces or reassembled, but many cars are when a car is declared stolen. The permit violations. A code enforcement getting harder to steal, that’s why they information is entered into a national officer inspecting a property, due to often stick to Hondas.” Other cars get database and the signal can be detected The occasional sighting of stripped complaints or sightings of wrecked cars, shipped overseas. by law enforcement authorities to help cars on the Key Peninsula doesn’t will contact the state patrol if suspicious Washington state is fourth in the them locate the vehicle. necessarily mean there is a shop set up activity is found, often times triggering country in the number of stolen Washington State Patrol also takes somewhere out here in the remote further investigation by the Illegal vehicles, with a car being stolen every 15 aggressive “pro-active” steps including woods, but citizens who see suspicious Wrecking Yards unit or the Auto Theft minutes, according to WSP. Puget using bait cars that will trap a thief inside activity are encouraged to report it. Not Criminal Investigation Division. Sound area is No. 1 in the state, with until police shows up. With the help of every tip will lead to a SWAT team “The majority of the guys we arrest for more than 70 percent of the statewide tips from the public, surveillance and swooping the area or a television news chop shops and illegal wrecking yards auto thefts concentrated in the King, information from a task force that report on yet another busted operation, have a criminal history involving Pierce and Snohomish counties. includes agencies ranging from county but as Trooper Alexander said, “bad methamthetamine and narcotics and Washington, in fact, has a reverse trend planning to the health department, guys don’t always get away…we are very distribution,” said Trooper Johnny compared to the rest of the country: detectives are trying to crack down auto aggressive in trying to put these guys Alexander of the Washington State While national trends show a reduction theft rings and chop shops. behind bars.” July 2004 People & Lifestyles 21

Wauna senior wins track Walk the competition medal

Dick Suess of Wauna was one of Key Pen with two members of the newly organized Gig Harbor Senior Track Club to compete in the Seattle Volksmarch Senior Games in June. Suess won the 65-69 age bracket gold medal in The Key Peninsula Lions’ Volkssport the Shot Put, and a bronze medal in Club will hold its annual Volksmarch on the Javelin. July 10-11 at Penrose Park. The walk Suess is the past age bracket gold starts between 8 a.m. and 1 p.m. (both medal winner in the shot put at the days) and finishes at 4 p.m. The distance 2003 Washington State Senior is 10 km (6.2 miles) and the event is Olympics, and came in second in held rain or shine. Used eyeglasses and the discuss and javelin. hearing aid donations are welcome and Charles Brocheo, a medalist will be recycled by the Lions Club for Photo by Hugh McMillan sprinter and Gig Harbor resident, the needy. Simon Priest and Caril Ridley examining the trail that will host the 15th annual Key was the other Gig Harbor Senior Trail: Walk briefly on hard top country Peninsula Lions’ Volkssport Club’s Volksmarch through Penrose Point State Park.The Track Club participant at the Seattle road from Start/Finish point to dirt Key Peninsula Trails Committee, under the direction of Priest and assisted by Ridley and event. He also brought back medals trails in primeval forests in the park. The the Lions’ Volkssport Club were recently building a new trail leading directly to the bike from Seattle. well-cleared trails meander up and down and hike campsite via the park’s main entrance road. Bud and Delores Ulsh, the adjacent The track club’s next event is at gentle hills through dense forests with a landowners, have volunteered their property to serve as the start/finish point for the Senior Games in Bremerton on July variety of trees, bushes and beaches Volksmarch and are supportive of the new trail plan. 10, and several new members will along Puget Sound. Trails are not suited join Suess and Brocheo. On July 24, for wheelchairs or strollers. desk will be set up on the Ulsh property, responsible for leash and cleanup. The the biggest event of the year, the Awards: “B” awards are available. where walkers may park at no charge. park has camping; call the ranger Washington State Senior Olympics, Credit is only $3. Participant not State parks require a $5 parking fee. station at 884-2514 for reservations. will be held in Olympia. seeking credit are welcome to walk for Miscellaneous: Water and restroom There are restrooms, showers, Any man or woman over the age free but all must register, carry and available at start/finish and about the swimming, RV facilities, boating, picnic of 50 can become a member of the return a start card. halfway point. Cold drinks and snack areas, and in season, clamming. club. For information, call Dick Hatpins: “B” hatpins available. food available at the start/finish point. Information: For more information, Suess at 857-3383. Parking: The Start/finish registration Pets are permitted; owners are contact Hugh McMillan at 884-3319. 22 People & Lifestyles Key Peninsula News

logging, caretaker of the Campfire Girl and raised on the Summerfelt farm. From Pioneer Stock Camp, huckleberry picking, and custom After Martha’s death, Art married Olga tractor work. He was also fire warden Allowson Johnson. He reached 84 years of The Summerfelt family several summers. age, physically fit until his last years while He moved his family from waterfront to battling cancer. By Colleen Slater waterfront around Longbranch in a Millie notes they didn’t have a lot of KP News houseboat for several years, then lived on time off from chores, but did enjoy Devil’s Head. They eventually built a home fishing, clamming, and pleasant days at Descendants of Julius Summerfelt trace across from what is now Camp Soundview, their grandparents’ homes. In winter, their ancestry on the Key Peninsula to 1890 where the children were raised. This house they skated on the pond on Rouse Road, when Julius and wife Emilie arrived in still stands, but other family homes burned and the radio was part of their daily lives. Longbranch. Boorn in Germany, they met or were replaced. Don was one of the first high school and married in Minnesota, where Julius Don, Janette, Thelma, Mildred and seniors allowed to drive the school bus in emigrated at 15. Earl grew up with assorted chores around 1936-37. For several years after that, some He became a U.S. citizen in 1892 in a mainly self-sustaining 20-acre farm. of the senior boys followed suit. Tacoma, where son Art was born. Julius They raised chickens, pigs, cows; grew Janette Petersen’s home is at Dutcher’s and Emilie built a home on Summerfelt berries, fruits, vegetables. Some milked Cove, Don is on Lackey Road, Millie Hill, now Rouse Road. He died at 41 of a before school. They made their own Niemann and two of her sons have homes ruptured appendix, on board the Tyconda, butter and when old enough, the on fourth generation Hansen property in as Art, 14, took him to the hospital. children picked loganberries to pay for Vaughn. Linnea Lind and daughter live in Art was taking professional singing school clothes. Longbranch. lessons as he was a talented vocalist. His The Summerfelts walked everywhere, Debbie interviewed her grandfather, Art, father’s death changed his life, because he Photo courtesy of Janete Petersen having neither bicycles nor automobile. A and other old-timers while in middle had to stay home and take care of the farm. Stump pulling at the Julius Summerfelt ferry trip from Longbranch to Tacoma to school. Louis Hiller had a brickyard at Granddaughter Debbie Nichols writes: “I home, circa 1908. From left, Emilie, shop was an exciting highlight of their life. Delano Beach in late 1800s, and made can’t remember a single family event that Julius Summerfelt, unidentified person; Millie said they could hardly sleep the bricks for Union Station and the old St. he didn’t lead us all in singing. His favorite Art on stump, sister Lena with hand on night before a prospective ferry trip. Joseph Hospital in Tacoma. He recruited was ‘Let me call you sweetheart.’” come-a-long cable. Art’s wife, Hazel, died while Millie and friends and relatives to come from Art married Hazel Thomas, a South Earl were still at home, and he later Wisconsin to work for him. Hiller was Dakota girl, and they lived with his parents same day her cousin Lois was born upstairs. married Martha Hannus Johnson, uncle to Julius Summerfelt and his sister for a while. Daughter Thelma was born Art served in the U.S. Army as mess originally from Whiteman Cove area. Hulda — grandmother to Shirl, Marge downstairs in her grandparents’ home the sergeant and had many jobs including Dorothy and Linnea were born to them and Dave Rickert. July 2004 23 24 Arts & Recreation Key Peninsula News The Air Up There: Freedom in three dimensions By Rodika Tollefson abandon ship pulsates through your veins KP News — just in time for a secondary lift to land you like a butterfly.” The Purdy Sand Spit is usually deserted Several years ago Austin, who won the during gloomy, chilly weather. But on the Red Bull King of the Air Kiteboarding windiest days of the year, when drivers Championship, and two Kitesurfing World hurry past the spit, a few brave souls are championships, was one of a few having the times of their lives. enthusiasts kitesurfing off the Maui coast. You’ve likely seen them before: A giant Today, the sport is catching on from kite of orange or another bright color Canada to Croatia, and Maui has become a glides across the sky. On the water below, a kitesurfer’s Mecca of sorts, with man in a wetsuit hangs tight. His hands professional schools and competitions. steer the kite; his feet planted on a board; Kitesurfing has gained wind in the his body swiftly surfing on the waves. Pacific Northwest in the last couple of Photo by Hugh McMillan “This is pretty boring,” explained a years, and Purdy is one of the kitesurfers’ Mike Darley (pictured),Terrance Towe of Tacoma, and Shaun Ward of Bremerton at the fellow surfer who was geared up to head local hot spots. Seattle’s John Penxa, co- Purdy Spit in late-May taking advantage of a brisk breeze they described as “mild” to into the water on one such recent outing. founder of the Seattle Kitesurfing hurl themselves across the inlet. Observing the three daredevils from shore, Peninsula The wind, too wimpy by his standards, was Association, estimated around 90 “kiters” High School senior Erik Marvik of the Minter Creek said he “can’t wait to get into the not strong enough for the more in the area back in 2001, when the sport sport,” despite the fact that it can be dangerous. He explained that the kite is controlled spectacular stunts: air flips, jumps and was in an “embryonic stage.” by four lines attached to what appears to be a handle bar similar to that on bicycles. twists. For a kitesurfer used to literally For some, kitesurfing is simply a natural “This enables you to turn,” he said, “in much the same way as smaller kites with four looking down on windsurfers, simply extension of other water-surfing sports— lines can be made to do loops and skim across the ground.” Marvik said he’d heard of staying on the water seems a rather bland an extension that requires less wind. And one kite boarder who was lifted off the surface and flew over the spit into Burley exercise. then there is that temporary release from Lagoon. “It was apparently a safe landing; I heard of no injuries.” Kitesurfing, kiteboarding, kiteskiing, gravity. The freefall from 20 to 50 feet in kitesailing — this sport has many names. the air. The adrenaline rush of your speed, his belt. The trickiest part, he said, is to depending on where the best wind is. It’s an addictive affair, converting former mixed with the wind flowing into your face. learn the kite maneuvering. With enough The beauty of kitesurfing is its versatility. windsurfers and wakeboarders from coast Pure freedom. practice, it’s easy to get over the part where “You can get off work at 5 p.m., break out to coast. Dubbed the 3D of windsurfing, Got kite; will surf the kite drags you around. the kite, go into the water for two hours, it’s a perfect blend of water and air, and What is kitesurfing? It’s skimboarding, “You could be in the (cold) water for 20 then go pick up the kids and groceries,” lots of adrenaline rushes in between. surfing and flying a kite, all at the same to 30 minutes, so you are acutely aware of Austin said. “It’s easy to travel with, easy for “Imagine, if you will, having a jet engine time. The body is the only connection the steep learning curve,” he said. parents, easy in light-wind areas.” in the air and a razorblade strapped to between the kite and the board, and both Steep learning or not, kitesurfers are an In lower winds, beginners can learn your feet, that is what it is like,” said Marcus have to be controlled simultaneously. interesting bunch. Anything for a chance quickly. In high winds, the sport becomes “Flash” Austin, one of the world’s top “It’s the nearest thing to an anti-gravity to “catch big air” (surfer lingo for big extreme. At this point, you hang tight and kitesurfers, in an interview from his Hawaii device,” Austin said. “One thing that jumps). Just check their vehicle cargo. take a deep breath. Once you whisk home a couple of years ago. “Like a roller- intrigues me is cheating gravity.” “Have the gear in your car and watch the yourself off the water and launch into the coaster ride from hell, you hang on and fly The required elements are simple: a wind,” Nichols said. It basically means, be air, again and again, you are hooked—and by the seat of your pants, cringing with kitesurf kite and a board, a kite control ready to drop everything — work included perhaps learn to understand why others every ‘wup-tee-doo,’ soaring upon every device and accessories like safety release, — on the spur of the moment. Sometimes call the sport “a healthy addiction.” launch into outer space like Buck Rogers. wetsuit, harness or life jacket. there is an hour or more warning, “It’s…Mother Nature’s most addictive Everything is strawberry fields from up Brett Nichols of Seattle said it took him sometimes not. The saying “he goes where drug, a three-dimensional platform of here, and then someone pulls the plug and about six months to learn. Of course, he the wind blows” applies to kitesurfers excitement,” Austin said. “The feeling of your stomach drops; the instinct to did have a lot of surfing experience under literally: The rendezvous place changes freedom, to me, is unsurpassed.” July 2004 Arts & Recreation 25 The beat goes on around KP

By Danna Webster KP News

Music is in the air this summer. Two of the best Peninsula concerts play at the Civic Center in Vaughn. The Prohibition Jazz Band did the opening honors June 5 and Little Bill & The Blue Notes will close us out in style Oct. 23. Dancers, musicians and music- appreciators attended the Jazz in June concert. There were all kinds of dancers… gliders… and sliders… and near colliders. There were first-time dancers to the Key Peninsula and others who recalled dancing at Horseshoe Lake Dance Hall when that was “what you lived for.” One of the musicians listening to the jazz band was Bob Lind of Home. He was a drummer for nearly five decades and played with many favorite dance bands at Tacoma hot spots. He said the band was terrific and had excellent musicians. Lind stood close to the stage waiting for the band to ask if there were any requests. He made quite a few. There were some of those who were just plain listeners, hearing favorite songs and knowing all the words. They appreciated the music, and the dancers, and sitting on a June night in a historic building full of memories. Some say the best is yet to come. Little Bill & The Blue Notes arrive in October. Highlights from Little Bill’s career are on display at The Experience Music Project Museum. To top it off, the drummer for this band is also a Key Pen resident, Tom Morgan. The blues band is playing for the Civic Center’s fall fund-raiser. That will be a night to “grab your coat and get your hat, leave your worries on the doorstep, just direct your feet…” to music on a Vaughn Bay street. Sure, Oct. 23 seems a long time off but you know how it is around the Key Peninsula—you barely blink and the summer is gone, and next thing you know your body is already craving the next dance date. Clarification A KP News article stated Bonny Snyder joined Positive Results as a Reiki Master and hypno-therapist. Positive Results owner Lauren Swanberg would like it clarified that “while that is partly true, we do work together as a team on some projects and share the same space, Bonny has her own business name.” It is called Sound Body, Mind and Spirit. 26 Arts & Recreation Key Peninsula News Art is here, there and everywhere!

By L. Brudvik Lindner sand casting class taught by renowned multi-media artist Beverly Pedersen – a Spring and summer has Two Waters class not to be missed! Arts Alliance (TWAA) blazing artistic The third annual Scarecrow Show will trails through once again be held at the Sunnycrest schools and camps Nursery parking lot, Saturday, July 10, 10 on the Key a.m. to noon. Bring old clothing, hats, Peninsula. The gloves, plastic bags, straw, string, sticks months of May and and stands to this free and whimsical June brought seven family event. local artists and 70 Experience the mystical Beach Walk hours of creative and Clay Day at Camp Seymour Saturday, instruction to over July17, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Space is limited 200 students at four The Genuine to 10 for this day of walking, collecting Key Peninsula ARTicle beach treasures, and —in the spirit of schools. Artist in Andrew Goldsworthy’s art form — School coordinator creating organic objects to adorn the Paddy Gilson delivered the genius talents beach. The second half of the day will be of artists Marty Lewis (drawing skills), spent designing clay pinch pots and firing Debra McElroy (poetry), Colleen them in the primitive pitfire method. Carrigan (nature & multi-media), Reni TWAA is alive and kickin’ due to the Moriarity (sumi painting), Lorina volunteer efforts of our generous Schaufler (mosaic pottery), Jennifer community members. Your support Lewellyn (fabric art), and Paddy Gilson continues the mission of bringing art (fairy tales & puppetry) to second, third alive on the Key Peninsula. To become a and fifth graders at Evergreen member, volunteer time and reserve your Elementary; sixth graders at KPMS; first, summer class, call 884-3407 or see second and third graders at Minter Creek www.twowaters.org. Scholarships and and kindergartners at Vaughn. family discounts are available for most The AIS pilot program was a roaring classes, including the art camp at Camp success; accolades to teachers, artists and Seymour. students for their contributions to a creative community achievement. TWAA extends a special applause to Paddy Gilson for organizing the imaginative learning sessions for Key Peninsula students. “The AIS program was focused on engaging children in a variety of art forms; it was truly a mission accomplished,” said Gilson. Attention kids (grade 3-7), TWAA enters the campground scene this summer! If you are looking to stretch Photo courtesy of Kathy Bauer your artistic muscles, Camp Seymour is the place to be July 4-10. Included in this Artwork by students under the direction of extraordinary week of activities will be a artist Reni Moriarity. July 2004 Arts & Recreation 27 2004 fair promises more, better than ever By Danna Webster KP News Help needed for 2004 “Mark your calendars! Aug. 20, 21 and Last year over 300 volunteers 22, the Fair is a-comin’ to Town!” is worked together for the Key Peninsula something you’ll likely start hearing a lot Community Fair. The fair is a fund-raiser around the Peninsula, as organizers of that serves to directly benefit Key the community’s biggest event are Peninsula neighborhoods. kicking into high gear. Whether a few hours or the entire The Key Peninsula 2004 Fair will be a- fair, all assistance is greatly hummin’ and a-buzzin’ with more activity appreciated. than ever, they say. There will be more Call 253-884-4FUN if you can help. Photo courtesy of Antique Tractor and Engine carnival rides, more entertainers, more Association Visit www.keyfair.com for more details. vendor booths plus two brand new Above, Look for the tractor pull at this feature attractions: an antique tractor year’s fair—a popular event organized by show and chainsaw woodcarvers’ moose, cougar and salmon using their the Antique Tractor and Engine demonstrations. And, back by popular mighty chainsaws. Some of the pieces Association. demand, a favorite attraction from last created will be auctioned to the public year’s fair, Bullwacking Kass and her for the benefit of the KP Fair Association Left, Bullwacking Kass, aka Sheryl Curtis, dozen oxen. non-profit sponsors. set up camp at last year’s fair, where she Yes, on the third weekend of August, Judging by the yard decorations and her mighty oxen enjoyed quite a bit of the lights on the ballpark diamonds will around the Key Peninsula, folks will attention. Photo by Hugh McMillan dim and the dazzle of Fair Time will really like the antique tractors and the begin. The Antique Tractor and Engine woodcarvings. But the hit of last year’s Association will display tractors, engines fair is sure to please the crowds once and equipment. But the highlight of again, the oxen and their lady their show will be the tractor pull. Bullwhacker. Tractors weighing from 1,000 to Bullwacking Kass, known to some as 14,000 pounds will test their might and Sheryl Curtis, will recreate those thrilling muscle as they strive to pull the heaviest days of yesteryear with the presentations sleds the farthest. The tractor stops of her “Old World Oxen Living History every 20 feet to add more weight, which Co.” A visit to this event allows you to in this case means more people. Serious step back into history about 150 years Atkins dieters may have to remain ago. spectators. So hurry! Hurry! Hurry! Put those fair Meanwhile the guests to the Key dates on your calendar. And be sure to Peninsula Fair will be entertained and visit the Key Peninsula Fair Website at amazed by chainsaw carvers. The carvers www.keyfair.com. This year there is a are sponsored by Kenny’s Northwest great special for people who purchase Experience, a studio located in the heart their admission tickets on the Internet. of Allyn. Men and women woodcarvers The $4 admission ticket may be will quickly and skillfully create bear, purchased for $2 online. 28 Arts & Recreation Key Peninsula News A man of big heart John Parker gives equal He’s the sponsor of two Little League teams called Freight Taxi. He’s encouragement to his unassuming. He doesn’t toot his own teams, opponents horn. He’s just there dispensing what all kids need, love and leadership ..... and By Hugh McMillan pizza and soft drinks after every game. KP News Not just for his team players but for their opponents as well. Among us is an adult who pours his “There’s no way that I could let the heart, time, and booty into kids. other team’s kids watch our kids eating He’s the sponsor of not one but two without inviting them to join us,” he little league baseball teams and he’s said. That pretty well sums up the heart been sponsoring them for 11 years. His of John Parker, a man of the kids. generosity and involvement with these More times than memory serves, when kids peppers comments from his kids asked on the field during a game, “John, Courtesy of KP Little League and coaches, members of other Little what’s the score?” his answer is, “I don’t Key Pen Little League champs after their June win, bottom row left to right: JJ League teams and coaches, even from know.” And when he asks his coaches or McCall, Emerson Brown, Collin Smith, Alec Bendorf, Al Rasmussen; middle row left to his wife. managers, nine times out of 10 they right: Jeff Newton, Jake Sorgenfrei, Darrian Creamer, MacKenzie Dobbins; top row left Who is this guy? don’t know either. “We’re here to play to right: Colton Juarez, Andrew Fallon; and left to right: coach Brian Medveckus, coach Stuart Fallon, sponsor John Parker, manager Matt Medveckus.

baseball. For the kids to have fun. That’s what it’s all about,” he says. But they do “Having three daughters like to win. All of them. And one Tuesday in June, they did. Big! who are interested in Matthew Medveckus, manager of hip-hop and swimming, Freight Taxi’s major league team, said: and no sons to play a “This was by far the best little league baseball game I’ve ever seen as a coach game of hoops with, and a fan. My hat goes off to the kids of Parker wanted to get Freight Taxi and my coaches. This is a involved again with sports storybook finish to my coaching career. There is no better way to hang it up ... as much as he could.” until I have my own kids.” -Tanja, John’s wife At a previous playoff game, Medveckus said, “Without John Parker, none of this would have happened. He competitive athletically. While his just brings out the best in all of us, kids, brothers’ sport of choice was basketball, coaches, you name it.” they also played football, and competed John’s wife, Tanja, said he started in track and wrestling,” she said. He also Photo by Hugh McMillan Freight Taxi in 1996 with his brother-in- has four sisters. John Parker, center, high-fiving with his Freight Taxi minors and their opponents after a law and one delivery truck. “Growing up “John has a passion for kids and game in April at Volunteer Park on the Key Peninsula. with nine brothers, he was very community,” Tanja said. What a masterful bit of understatement. Having three daughters who are interested in hip-hop and swimming, and no sons to play a game of hoops with, Parker wanted to get involved again with sports as much as he could. ”When we first moved out to Lakebay 11 years ago, we would pass by Volunteer Park and notice the baseball games being played,” Tanja said, “We had some friends whose sons were involved in Little League. The rest is history.” Let’s all hope that is not the case. Thanks for caring, John Parker. It’s people like you who make it all worthwhile. July 2004 History 29 STEP BACK IN TIME theme was mistreatment of women in How Home industry, unfair property laws pertaining to women and the enslavement of Vaughn Sunday School picnic women in marriage. Present Equal Rights lost, gained Amendment proponents would have approved of their philosophy; however, a post office they were well before their time. Mrs. Waisbrooker and postmistress By Sylvia Retherford Mattie Penhallow were tried by jury in Special to KP News Tacoma for sending “obscene materials through the mails.” The judge fined Home was established in February 1896 Waisbrooker $100 and Penhallow was and in its early days mail came to the acquitted. However, she stated on the village via the Lakebay Post Office. Spirited witness stand that she was an anarchist citizens took turns walking to Lakebay to and atheist. bring the mail to Home. The King family On Sept. 6, 1901, President McKinley home at the head of the bay was the had been assassinated by Leon distribution point. In 1900, application was Czolgoss, who had stated that he was an made to the postal department for a post anarchist. So Tacoma newspapers and office in Home, since the population had some local ministers drew public risen to about 150. conclusions that Czolgoss had some On Feb. 21, 1901, Home was granted a connection to Home. This proved false post office and it was established in the during the subsequent trial. King home, with Elum Miles as Following this lurid publicity, feelings postmaster. About a year later, Mattie ran high, and when editorials on March 8 Photo by Mrs. Palmer, 1913, courtesy of Colleen Slater Penhallow became postmistress and the and July 15, 1902, in the Tacoma Ledger post office was transferred to her home, further inflamed Tacomans against “The others (of the church were) Daughter May or Florence is likely the at Fifth and A streets on the waterfront. Home’s residents, it was an easy matter to watching the ball game —married played one to Dodd’s left behind lady with hat, Several controversial publications have Home’s post office removed. On singles so of course Frank & D’Arcy were perhaps Mrs. Sampson. Son Roy is in were being mailed from Home at this April 30, 1903, the federal postal busy,” is written on the back of the photo dark shirt near center of photo with cup time. “Discontent: Mother of Progress” authorities closed it on trumped up by Agnes Bill; Frank was her husband and in hand, and Genevieve, his wife or carried many articles on labor unrest, charges. An entire community was D’Arcy Buckell her brother. future wife, just below to his right. To his social and political dissidence and “free punished for the acts of a few. Agnes Bill is in back row with the fancy left may be a Kingsbury. thinking” on religion and sex Lakebay again became Home’s hat, Edna Buckell (wife of D’Arcy) with Bertha Gabrielson (later Mrs. Bob philosophy. It was mailed weekly nearest post office and residents re- baby Daphne. Little girl with hands to Davidson) may be girl in sailor dress. throughout the United States and to installed the daily walk by a community her face is Kathleen Bill, sister Elsie just Some other church families of that era some foreign countries by its editor and member to bring the mail to Home. behind her, sister Dorothy behind the include Austin, Davidson, Hall, Hansen, publisher, Charles Govan. Many Home Mrs. Penhallow still served as small girl in front, and brother Bob to Holman, Kincaid, Mills, Niemann, Olson, residents were regular contributors. It postmistress in her home, but without her left, with the hat on. Rodman, Van Slyke, Whitfield and carried local Home news as well. pay. Rural free delivery was established Reverend A. R. Dodd is at center back Wright. If anyone can identify family “Foundation Principles” was a monthly in 1909. Albert Sorenson was the first with white beard, his wife just in front of members or would like to see the magazine on women’s rights, written and carrier using his horse and buggy. him, and daughter Grace (later Mrs. original, contact Colleen Slater at 884- edited by Lois Waisbrooker and Olivia Lakebay’s post office was moved to Harmon Van Slyke) to her right. 5403. Shepherd. Both of these ladies, aged Home in 1958 for “convenience and about 70 years, had written on this better service.” Its name was not subject most of their adult lives, Miss changed even though the postal rule Shepherd in Chicago and Mrs. book states that the name of a post Waisbrooker in San Francisco. So in office shall be that of the community in Home they combined their efforts; their which it is located.

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pray for other families. Anyone who has a use that involves the preparation of food and Religion briefs prayer request may call the church office for use as a school or day care site. prior to the event at 884-3312. The Geneva Foundation has been a Candlelight vigil held for generous contributor to the local community soldiers, peace Lutheran Church receives in the past, making a grant to the I.M.Pact grant program to establish a safe house for The Key Peninsula Lutheran Church invites domestic violence victims. The foundation the public to participate in a candlelight The Geneva Foundation has awarded a was established by the Albers Flour Mill prayer vigil for peace in the Middle East and $27,500 grant to the Key Peninsula Lutheran family, and Vaughn residents John and Shirley the safe return of U.S. soldiers from Iraq and Church for purchasing appliances and Nederlee, who are part of the organization, other missions. The vigil begins Friday, July 9 equipment for the kitchen in its fellowship have helped facilitate grants for the Key at 5 p.m. and ends July 10 at 8 a.m. in the hall. Church representatives said once the Peninsula. church sanctuary. The church is located at new equipment is installed, the fellowship “KPLC would like to express deep-felt the corner of Key Peninsula Highway and hall will be able to better serve Key Peninsula gratitude to the Geneva Foundation and John Lackey Road. The church is inviting the residents by hosting Sunday community meals and Shirley Nederlee for this generous community to participate by stopping by at when they are not served at the Community donation,” Pastor Alan Marshall said. “KPLC’s any time during the vigil. The candlelight Center during the summer and serve as an hope is that many people on the Key vigil offers a serene, quiet atmosphere for emergency shelter in the event of a disaster. Peninsula will benefit from the generous gift.” prayer and reflection and a chance for you to The hall will also be available for community July 2004 31

Do you need Classifieds more APPLEBY PLUMBING & DRAIN WATKINS PRODUCTS are available, customers? Service, Repairs, and Remodels, call Marvin and Myrtle Keizur at Hot Water Tanks 884-3566. VISA/MC We deliver to 253-884-9827 every Fitness Equipment For Sale: household on HOME FEED & GROCERY Assisted Squat Machine, Life Fitness Stepper, the Key 1809 KPN, Home. 884-2321 Ab/back Machine, dumbbells & rack. 858-2745. Open 8 AM - 10 PM Peninsula! Holidays 10 AM - 6 PM To place a classified, call Karen at 858-8623 or email [email protected] Advertise in the Key Peniinsula News, Have a press release or a comment? call Karen at Submit online at www.keypennews.com 858-8623 32 Key Peninsula News Out & About

Right, Hunter Erwin, age almost 2, waits patiently while a group of adults including his uncle, Key Pen resident and former Above, Key Pen’s Phil Bauer, Steve Kaffer, Brian “the watermelon” and many others local firefighter Mark Beal, are talking traveled to the Gig Harbor Maritime Gig Parade in June to spread the word about this nearby at the Aisle of Honor at the year’s Key Peninsula Community Fair. Photos by Hugh McMillan Vaughn cemetery. Photo by Hugh McMillan Top right, Ann White (left), charter member and volunteer with Citizens Against Crime, Right bottom,The Peninsula blooms with together with two other CAC volunteers monitoring the speed check radar at the May 22 colors, showing off gardeners’ hard work and 23 Harvest Time Fair in Wauna.The device, provided by the Pierce County Sheriff's —like these gorgeous roses spotted in the Department, served to make drivers aware of their speed in the congested area. yard of Joyce Niemann. Photo by Colleen Slater

Above, Jubilant Key Peninsula Little League minor Moreland and Son team players celebrate their 12 to 10 victory over A and R Construction of South Kitsap Western on June 11 at South Kitsap Southern’s Field. Andy Mattingly, manager, and Rich Goddard share the excitement. With his back to the camera is Andrew Mattingly, the the tournament’'s MVP,with his teammates. Catcher Lucas West raises his hand in a victory signal. Moreland and Son took second place in the Inter-League tournament. Photo by Hugh McMillan