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

Vol. 31 Issue 4 From The Key Peninsula Civic Center Circulation 7,800 APRIL 2004

all contracts are off and we’re going to In this issue Metropolitan Park District: have to raise fees,” Salatino told Little League representatives at a February park Bringing in needed money, with strings attached board meeting. The creation of a government body f approved by the voters in May, a metropolitan parks board called a Metropolitan Park District (MPD), would have the power to raise taxes and issue limited bonds which would receive some of the zoo/trek without taxpayer approval. If not approved, current commis- sales tax that currently goes to the county, has the overwhelming support of the cur- sioners say they may close the parks. The voters will decide. rent park board and community members I who say that without it the future of Key By William C. Dietz and Rodika Tollefson about $11,000—the district is running out Peninsula parks is uncertain. Based on KP News of money. population, Key Pen parks would receive Park board Chair Mike Salatino said in an estimated $100,000 per year from Erlene Twidt is KP Citizen With the failure of the park levy last fall, February he will work with the county to money residents are already paying as part Key Peninsula Park and Recreation District extend the payment terms, but if the elec- of the sales tax but is now supporting parks of the Year page 2 officials say the park board is left with very tion bill had to be paid immediately, the programs elsewhere. Thanks to that few options and could even close doors. district might be going out of business. money, supporters say, the local parks With less than $15,000 left in the bank “In the event metro (the proposed would finally have the financial muscle account at the end of February—and with Metropolitan Park District) doesn’t pass (See PARKS, Page 22) A computer a pending bill from previous elections for and we (the current district) are still here, guru with a soft heart page 12 The Jewells of teaching Local family carries passion through generations

By Hugh McMillan and Andrea’s sister, Judy Watt, occa- KP News sionally have all been in the same stu- dent-filled room at the same time, The Jewells are well named. They some as volunteers, some on official News are just that. And our community’s duty, assisting one another and the KP Council is official . . . . .3 kids are the better for it. kids in the learning process. Garden wins award ...... 6 In many cases, this dynamite local “Every day is uplifting and positive SR-302, part 2 ...... 7 family of five sharing careers in teach- because of the children and the sup- Photo by Rodika Tollefson Private school to open . . .10 ing has been working side-by-side— port of families, both ours and the The “Jewells” family at the Citizen of the Year Burger King on the way . .11 literally. John Jewell, artist and retired families of the children we serve,” Banquet, where John was one of the nominated From pioneer stock . . . . .18 principal; his wife, Andrea; daughter (See TEACHERS, Page 15) volunteers: from right, John and his wife, Andrea, Sustainable living ...... 19 Laura Stafki; son-in-law Jeff Stafki; with daughter Laura Stafki and son-in-law Jeff. KP Seniors meet and play .20 Spring Fling recap ...... 25 Two dances planned . . . . .26 KP Middle School selected for NASA project Cootiettes host event . . . .28 Livable Community Fair . .30 By KP News staff According to NASA, during the partnership Out & About ...... 32 “the NES teams acquire and use new teaching The Key Peninsula Middle School became resources and technology tools using NASA’s the first and only school in the state to be unique content, experts and other resources.” Sections selected to participate in the NASA Explorer Schools may get the chance to “participate in Peninsula Views ...... 4 School program. The three-year program is a authentic experiences with NASA science and Schools ...... 8 partnership between NASA and 50 schools technology; apply NASA science, mathematics, selected from around the country each year. and technology knowledge to real-world issues Business ...... 11 The program will begin during the 2004-05 and problems; and participate in special events Community Works . . . . .16 Photo by Rodika Tollefson school year. KPMS science teacher Kareen and other opportunities.” KPMS science teacher Kareen People & Lifestyles . . . .18 Borders said she and the other 49 team leads The official announcement was made just as Borders, seen here with seventh will fly to Cape Canaveral in Florida in May for the Key Peninsula News was going to press. Arts & Recreation . . . . .25 graders, also recently received two a five-day leadership institute and orientation Read upcoming issues for details on this excit- Religion ...... 31 grants from the SHOPA Foundation that will officially kick off the program. ing news. for Education Excellence. 2 Key Peninsula News Citizen of the Year celebrates volunteer leaders

By Irene Torres summary of several projects in store for KP Citizen of KP News the Key Peninsula, and how he is working the Year Erlene to secure funding for them. Twidt visited Volunteers. They are everywhere on the “Key Peninsula residents no longer have with Gov. Gary Key Peninsula. Usually, one or two or to travel to Tacoma for traffic court Locke and three at a time, they seem nearly invisible appearances, thanks to a partnership with Rep. Pat Lantz to the casual observer. But not so on a the county and the city of Gig Harbor,” during a bill recent Saturday night at the KP Civic Lee said of one such project. He quipped signing Center. Nearly 50 of them were gathered that he had been the first to appear before ceremony in a single place. Hosted by the Key a District Court judge in the new decen- in Olympia. Peninsula Lions Club members, and sur- tralized traffic court, for a parking cita- rounded by their friends, family, and visit- tion. He added, “With law enforcement a ing dignitaries, they were honored for priority, there are plans to reassign eight Photo by Hugh their incalculable contributions at the trained deputies to the Gig Harbor and McMillan 20th annual Citizen of the Year Banquet. Key Peninsulas when Lakewood’s contract With pomp and circumstance, Boy Scout with the county for sheriff’s services comes Troop 220 presented the colors. The to an end.” Pledge of Allegiance, the singing of a patri- Lee encouraged citizens to become otic song, and an invocation kicked off the involved in Key Peninsula comprehensive The winner of the 2003 Citizen of the fight against domestic violence. “The gov- celebration. Event Chairman and Master planning and the KP Advisory Year award, Erlene Twidt, summarized the ernor was very kind and accommodating. of Ceremonies Hugh McMillan gracefully Commission, both efforts in the works, magnitude of their collective volunteer He congratulated me on being named handled a few minor technicalities with the “to be prepared for the ribbon-cutting on work in her acceptance: “Don’t think that Citizen of the Year and referred to me as sound system, while Lions Club President the second Tacoma Narrows Bridge and one single person can’t make a difference ‘the guest of honor.’ He even demon- Pat Medveckus juggled selling raffle tickets the influx of population and urban devel- in the quality of life of others. Indeed, strated how to pose and position my with arrangements for ample seating and opment that is inevitable for this vulnera- they’re the only one who can.” (read more plaque for better photographs... It was a extra table settings to accommodate the ble and accessible community.” of her words on volunteering on page 4) wonderful experience.” buzzing crowd, nearly 220 strong. Individuals and groups, including sever- Twidt told KP News after the ceremony, At the Civic Center banquet, Lantz was Keynote speaker Terry Lee, Key al members of the KP Community Council “I want to thank the Lions Club for provid- in attendance along with Rep. Lois Peninsula’s representative on the Pierce Organizing Committee and Fire District ing a venue to validate the important vol- McMahan, school board officials, and unteer work being done in this communi- local dignitaries. McMahan said, “I look “The governor was very kind and accommodating. He ty. I think it is wonderful that they do this forward to this event every year.” One congratulated me on being named Citizen of the Year without any political ties.” attendee commented, “The quality of this This amazing woman, who had recently event was better than any Citizen of the and referred to me as ‘the guest of honor.’” been struggling with health problems, was Year banquet I’ve attended.” -Erlene Twidt, Key Peninsula Citizen of the Year later invited by Rep. Pat Lantz to attend a The delicious dinner was catered and ceremony at which Gov. Locke signed served by Lisa’s Deli and volunteer staff, County Council, read a letter from Gov. 16, were nominated as Citizen of the Year. three legislative bills into law. The new followed by a rousing vote of confidence Gary Locke, acknowledging the volunteer The Lakebay Community Church was laws, related to domestic violence preven- that they should prepare all future Citizen spirit on the Key Peninsula. Locke’s letter well-represented with nominees, and the tion and mandatory police training, will of the Year banquets. Tracy Manning and referenced words first spoken by the Rev. entire Vaughn Cemetery board and staff become effective in June 2005. volunteers from the Key Center Saloon Martin Luther King, distinguishing people were nominated. Seven-year-old Galilee “I was greatly privileged to be able to served refreshments and were seen help- “who share their special talents to make McCarrell won the hearts of the audience participate,” said Twidt, who was nomi- ing bus tables after the meal. Then those the world a better place from those who when she explained how she had used her nated for Citizen of the Year, among volunteer Boy Scouts returned at the end focus on making a living rather than mak- allowance to buy gifts for children who other things, for her longtime involve- of the evening and returned the banquet ing a life.” Lee’s comments included a would have had no Christmas presents. ment with Key Pen-based I.M.Pact in a hall to a gymnasium once again.

To subscribe, please write, Executive editor: Rodika Tollefson Production: September Hyde call or fax: Ad sales: Karen Hale Web master: Paul Pattee Key Peninsula News Staff writers: William C. Dietz, Publishing Committee chairman: 17010 S. Vaughn Rd. Hugh McMillan, Colleen Slater, Bill Trandum P.O. Box 3, Vaughn, WA 98394 Irene Torres, Karen Hale, Danna Phone (253) 884-4699 Webster Submissions deadline: Third Fax: (253) 884-4053 Contributors: Debra Katrine Monday of each month Email [email protected] McElroy, R.R. Whitney Distribution: Phil Bauer www.keypennews.com

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 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. STATEMENT OF OWNERSHIP, AND OPERATION OF THE KEY PENINSULA NEWS 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. 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 immediate- ly adjacent areas within Fire District 16. OUR GRATEFUL THANKS TO ALL WHO CONTRIBUTE TO THE KEY PENINSULA NEWS! 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. Box 3, Vaughn, WA 98394, or email to [email protected] April 2004 3 Key Peninsula Community Council is official Elections of 14 members obtained, elections to select the 14 council members to be held. But all in all, the real- planned for summer ity of an organized community council is within short months away. By Rodika Tollefson At their March meeting, interim council KP News members were selected. Although no longer an organizing committee but offi- Key Peninsula residents have long felt cially called the Key Peninsula Community that despite paying equal share of taxes Council (KPC), the group is not changing and other fees, they were not receiving fair its role for now. The main goal is to final- services and representation. So when the ize the birth of the council, and stage elec- idea of introducing a unified voice—a tions so the entire community can choose community council—was presented, it was representatives. A needs assessment com- not long before dozens of people joined in mittee will survey residents and prepare an the grass-roots effort, which has been overview of priorities so the newly elected going strong for more than a year now. council can immediately immerse into its Though the meetings got smaller with work. time, the momentum has never stopped, “We feel like a large voice and a lot more - and a core group of leaders—many effective,” said the council’s Joyce Tovey. . already involved in various other efforts— “We feel we can accomplish a great deal d have carried forward the task of creating a more by speaking with one voice.” Photo by Hugh McMillan s Key Peninsula Community Council. In The voice could indeed hold some Left to right: Key Pen Middle School students Seth Parshall, Annastasia Gallaher, and - March, their work was validated, as the clout—as organizers point out, if Key Adam Anderson, front, and Richard Sutherland, Nick Mullins, and Justin Allard, back, y organizing committee received the news Peninsula were an incorporated city, it with their teacher Dave Locey present their progress on the Community Council’s a that the organization was officially incor- would be one of the largest in the county Website.The group has worked on the project after school with help from Ron Stark. porated as a nonprofit in the state of (No. 5, slightly larger than Bonney Lake, s Washington. based on Pierce County figures). sions strengthening the Key Peninsula Geographically, many Wauna residents s Much remains to be done—bylaws to be Jeff Harris, who has been the co-chair of itself, by reaching out to North End resi- may see themselves as more associated to d finished, a 501(c)3 exempt status to be the organizing group, says he also envi- dents and getting them more involved. Gig Harbor—but they don’t have access to k city government services. This would give In a nutshell: Pen Health Center (Key Center), library, operations are being discussed. The them a chance to participate, Harris said. • As an independent, nongovernmental May 8 Livable Community Fair (Civic group has raised enough money to cover The issues the council will tackle will entity, the Community Council will be Center), fire stations, and other locations. organizational committee and initial board depend on the newly elected board, but organizers envision focusing on anything funded largely by donations, grants and Temporary office space for the elections costs. from crime fighting to working with the membership fees. One-time founding will be at the Health Center. • For information, call the KPC hotline proposed new hospital on an outreach memberships of $50 are accepted until • You can nominate yourself for a posi- at 884-0557 or: Jeff Harris at 884-4697, program. The community will be able to June 30; “Friends of KPC” memberships tion on the board until May 31. Each cen- Joyce Tovey at 884-3304, Dennis Taylor bring concerns to the council as well. sus tract area will select one director per available on a yearly basis. at 884-7899. If all goes as planned, the new council 1,000 residents, with a total of 14. All • Elections are planned for June 26, will begin its work in July. In the mean- - with voting place and procedures to be residents will vote on the candidates, and How to get involved time, the interim board will launch an determined. To vote, you do not have to the top vote-getters for each area will Next Community Council meeting is intensive outreach campaign to conduct be registered with Pierce County but you become board members. April 27, at 7 p.m. at the Key Peninsula presentations to various local groups, and t must register with the Community • Details such as permanent office encourage residents to learn more, join Middle School. Council—registrations available at Key space and funding for the first year of in, and vote. 4 Key Peninsula News

you like it or not (of course we won’t Editorial turn down contributions; we too have The choice of volunteering aspirations, like some day paying our Why does news has to be volunteer writers and growing so we can By Erlene Twidt several churches, we were informed that bad news to be told? deliver the rest of the good news that’s hunger and domestic violence were two left at the end of the month after we run Editor’s note: The Key Peninsula News major problems for this community. The Last month, the Key Peninsula — out of space; plus the tax deduction asked Erlene Twidt for her comments on volun- “Community Meal” was established and specifically Herron Island— was repeat- could be handy for you when Uncle teering and receiving the Citizen of the Year I.M.Pact members began to do educa- edly in the media spotlight. The crash of Sam comes to collect). award. This is what she shared. tional presentations on domestic vio- a Cessna 170 with two people on board To digress a little, you may have lence both in this area and in several into Case Inlet brought unwelcome noticed we had recently started mixing olunteering is a choice — a will- other cities in the United States. These attention to this small, private island. in small doses of less happy news—look- ingness to be present to others projects have expanded with at least 50 When Herron was in the news previ- ing at issues that some may view con- V without pretense or guile. meals a week being served and we now ously, a woman died after falling off the frontational if not controversial, or (Park your ego at the door.) I strongly have “I.M.Pact House” that offers a safe island’s ferry dock, said one resident. issues that shine light on important sub- believe that we are all here to help each place for victims. A sizeable grant from Last time Key Peninsula itself made it to jects that may not have any good news in other. We each have different God-given the Geneva Foundation allowed us to the evening newscast was when Ace them. It’s not because we’ve run out of gifts. To volunteer is open the safe house. Anderson disappeared without a trace positive things to say, but because we to meet the expec- As I learned more about domestic vio- and a massive search was staged. recognize that you, our readers, may tation of both lence and from my past personal experi- No camera rolled last year when sometimes want to know the bad news God and humans. ence in my extended family, I decided to Vaughn Elementary was the state win- as well. You will always also join the “Gig Harbor/Key Peninsula ner of a contest that brought $10,000 We won’t dwell on it, however; our find that there is Family Violence Prevention Project” and and the famous Wienermobile to the focus remains much the same so if you someone who is more “Faith Partners Against Family Violence” school—but the school did make head- don’t see a “big” story that’s all over the educated, has more money, is younger in Tacoma. These groups share informa- lines prior to that, when a Norwalk-like news, it could be simply because there (older), stronger, has more time, or more tion and support each other when addi- virus outbreak forced classes to be can- are plenty of sources for finding out the energy, etc. Those things do not matter tional workers are needed. The more celled for a few days. Not even the visu- latest, or because — as one hesitant because God does not call those who are education we can do, the more people als of a giant hotdog vehicle strolling Herron Island resident put it, in declin- prepared, God prepares those who are will begin to understand how much though the narrow streets of Vaughn ing to comment about the plane crash called! domestic violence affects everyone. was appealing enough to those hungry to the Key Peninsula News—it seems the The great thing about volunteering is I choose to experience life in a circle newsies whose sheer job depends on the Key Peninsula only gets publicity when that you start out thinking that you are that only expands and is never broken. I ability to produce good images. something bad happens. doing this because someone needs you, hope that my family and friends admire Suppose if Bill Gates were riding in the Got good news? Bring it on. when in fact, you need them. the woman I have become. bowels of the hotdog, or Britney Spears Volunteering for I.M.Pact Key To quote from a recent email from a (pop diva if you don’t know) delivered Peninsula and victims of domestic vio- friend, “Life is not a journey to the grave the $10,000 check, the entertainment Editor’s note: As this issue was head- lence began with a call from my pastor. I with the intention of arriving safely in a value of such good news would cause ing to press, more bad news broke was asked to attend a meeting to find out pretty and well preserved body, but the big-city reporters to stop yawning involving the Key Peninsula, when a more about a group being formed to do rather to skid in broadside, thoroughly and get their photographers on the local resident was arrested for child works of benevolence here on the Key used up, totally worn out, and loudly pro- road. rape and pornography involving six very Peninsula. In those meetings, involving claiming, ‘Wow, what a ride!’” Until then, we here at the Key young boys in his foster care. The story Peninsula News are stuck picking up the has circled the globe as the investigation slack. After all, if we didn’t cover the involved tips from England and Ireland, To submit a letter to the editor good news, who would? We’re not aller- and has shown us that no community is gic to it, as much of the news media is, ever immune from such terrible news. If you’d like to share your views on issues related to the Key Peninsula, write us a so we might as well fill the niche. Our hearts go out to the children and letter to the editor or submit a guest column. We welcome your letters as long as It helps that we don’t have the pres- the others affected by this unthinkable they are relevant to the local community. Send 250 words or less to P.O. Box 3, sure of rack and subscription sales—you situation. Vaughn WA 98394, email [email protected], fax to 884-4053 or submit online don’t even have to pay us, we’ll deliver at www.keypennews.com. Please include phone number for verification purposes. the good news to your mailbox whether

Letters to the Editor From the local realtor from whom we resolve the problem in court. As we have surgery to remove a breast for cancer, bought our home who lied on every dis- chosen this area to invest our money and and was unable to wash my hair. Some Reader says local mer- closer, to the local roofing contractor business in, we will continue to try to! great friends took me to Bayside chants need improvements who did not do the job he was paid for. We can change what being “local” to Cutters. I was treated with great respect Our son’s car, when broken down and the Peninsula means, but with the stigma and compassion. George took care of I just finished reading the March edi- left overnight, was stripped clean—-tires, of scoundrels active in this area, we can’t me on two occasions. torial on meth labs. I hate to agree, but battery, and even the stock AM radio! disagree with the editorial. I will be having two more surgeries in at this point I must. Our family moved to Our car while at the Purdy park-and-ride Jonathan Josi the future, and will return for more the Key Peninsula four years ago from for only a few hours was broken into and Lakebay hair washings. It’s nice to know there is Kent, thinking we were moving to a bet- cleaned out: sunglasses, coats, every- a friendly place I can go in the future ter community. Not so. We have been thing, and it cost us a broken window. Reader thanks hair salon and feel comfortable. fleeced by more scoundrels and thieves We purchased a vehicle from a local Kim Cohen since moving here than any other time merchant that lasted less than 10 miles This is a big thank-you to Bayside Vaughn in our lives. before it threw a rod, and now we have to Cutters Family Hair Salon. I had major April 2004 Peninsula Views 5

“just to show my family that I was actual- ly here.” Good parks policy We headed down the Peninsula. Impulsively, he told me to turn here, Parks must have two election results: and to turn there, and to stop the car so he could fully sense the reality of the MPD and new, effective leadership place. By Bill Trandum what will ultimately be ruinous to the Trump comes to town “Look at this, Charlie! We’re standing KP News MPD, is a board that distrusts the public on the shores of Glen Cove!” and conducts its business in closed-door By R.R. Whitney “Stand here! This is where the parade On May 18 there is a strong probability sessions with secret dealings and private comes!” that voters will approve formation of a agendas. An example of this was the pres- One of the advantages of writing for After an hour of touring the Metropolitan Park District (MPD). ent commission’s vote to shelve the old the Key Peninsula News is that I get to Peninsula, and after the Herron Island Citizen support of the MPD proposition Wauna post office issue so that it wouldn’t meet celebrities. When Donald Trump ferry skipper refused us passage because centers on the perceived need for park negatively affect the outcome of the MPD came to Key Center to renegotiate a con- Trump didn’t know anyone on the improvements. More importantly, voters vote. In my opinion, this was an ill-con- tract for the moss served in the Trump island, we arrived at Mossman’s farm just and taxpayers want a better system of ceived effort to sway an election by with- Tower Caesar Salad, I was there to meet down the road from Vaughn. funding and managing our Key holding information from the public. Such him at The Narrows Airport. I hoped “So this is the source,” he said, his Peninsula parks. Voting “yes” on MPD is a actions simply add to the public’s distrust he’d bring his helicopter, but he landed voice inflected with wonder. We were good beginning, but our new MPD will and low esteem for some elected officials. in an ordinary twin-engine Beechcraft standing at the entrance of Mossman’s be effective only if we select the right can- Voters are smart and can deal with with no one but a personal assistant and property. Except for a pair of cream-col- didates to fill the new positions on the complex issues when they are fully a local pilot. He’d arrived only an hour ored chickens, pecking the gravel drive- newly created parks commission. informed. Formation of a Metropolitan before at SeaTac on United Airlines. way for something we couldn’t discern, With the increased taxing power and Park District is a good first step. We must Trump had come, of course, to strike administrative authority of the MPD, we finish the job by electing competent can- a better deal with our own local celebri- This is because, as need commissioners who are honest, didates for the new positions on the MPD ty, “The Moss King”—Hermann Trump informed me, straightforward, and accommodating to board. This new leadership will increase Kretchmer (“H.K.”) Mossman, who lives there are no significant the public. Our MPD commission must the effectiveness and responsiveness of and farms a half-mile from the Civic be able to establish management policies, the MPD commission and will provide Center in Vaughn. Trump jumped down lines at the stamp coun- create and follow budgets, and, especial- much-needed direction to the staff of our out of the tiny aircraft cabin and shook ters of the Wauna Post ly, communicate openly, frankly and new parks department. my hand. There was a stiff breeze whip- Office. Some of the lines often with citizens and taxpayers. Bill Trandum is the chairman of the Key ping up from the direction of the Conversely, what we don’t need, and Peninsula News Publishing Committee. Sound, but not a hair on his head in Manhattan, especially stirred. Mine stood up as if I’d grabbed at Christmas, stretch the globe of a Van de Graff generator or almost to Miami. shaken the hand of God. Trump, still surprisingly sprightly, is there were no signs of life. No one toiled not a man of formalities. He immediate- the vast, emerald fields stretching before ly asked if I could take him on a tour of us. No one was on the roof of the cabin Lake Kathryn Village. “The Western or barn, harvesting moss with putty Village” (as it’s known to New Yorkers, to knives. Nor was anyone in the cleaning distinguish it from Greenwich Village) is shed, preparing the tangy product for an almost mythical place for the resi- shipment to the finest restaurants and dents of the Big Apple. This is because, hotels in Manhattan, Tokyo, London, or as Trump informed me, there are no sig- New Delhi. nificant lines at the stamp counters of “Did you think to make an appoint- the Wauna Post Office. Some of the ment?” I asked. lines in Manhattan, especially at Trump looked stricken. Charlie Christmas, stretch almost to Miami. looked more stricken. Three crows In the Wauna P.O., Trump bought an careened around the crown of a tower- ordinary coil of first-class stamps, peeled ing Douglas Fir. We proceeded up the one of them off, and stuck it on an ordi- walkway and slipped a business card nary postcard, which Pam cancelled for (“Donald Trump, Trump Tower, New him. There were no lines in the building, York, New York”) into the screen door. and in fact there were no other patrons. The door creaked in the breeze on its “It’s unbelievable,” The Donald said. rusty hinges. “But I suppose if I built Trump Tower “When you see H.K., tell him I’ll be West on that vacant site just beyond the back,” Trump said, heading for the car. parking lot, lines would certainly appear.” Cream-colored chickens crossed before “Ah, there’s the rub,” I said. Trump’s us ceremoniously, their streamlined assistant, Charlie, looked longingly at heads bowed and pecking, their con- the vacant site. Clouds rolled silently centration absolute. overhead like Pacific Ocean breakers. In I promised I would. the Lake Kathryn Coast Hardware, Trump bought a small bag of quarter- The Local Quill, R. R. Whitney, formerly inch, stainless-steel bolts from Dave, of Herron Island, now lives in Gig Harbor. 6 Key Peninsula News Youth garden receives national award

Special to KP News brush, build an 8-foot-tall fence, con- struct raised beds, plant the fruit trees, The organic garden at YMCA Camp and set out seedlings, organizers say. Colman was selected from more than 500 The project has also received generous kids’ gardening programs nationwide to support from Sunnycrest Nursery, receive a 2004 Youth Garden Grant from L’Arche Farm & Gardens, and local the National Gardening Association. farmer Ross Bischoff. Camp Colman will receive an assortment The organic garden is used in Camp of garden products donated by leading Colman’s outdoor environmental edu- companies in the lawn and garden indus- cation programs. School children, fami- try. ly campers, and summer resident “National Garden Association is proud campers have the opportunity to learn to support this terrific kids’ garden,” says various facets of gardening, participate Joan White, education program director. in garden chores and taste the fresh pro- “This program was selected because of a duce. demonstrated commitment to actively Art programs are also incorporated as and creatively engaging youth in the gar- the campers create mosaic stepping- dening process and to improving the stones, paint colorful birdhouses, and community. In addition, we were able to construct bright pinwheels. see from their application that the gar- YMCA Camp Colman welcomes com- den program will be sustained for years munity members to become involved in to come.” the garden program. If you would like to YMCA Camp Colman began the volunteer or to learn more about the pro- Photo courtesy of Camp Colman organic garden program in spring of gram and the National Gardening A YMCA Camp Colman visitor is learning 2003. The garden is quite large and Association grant, please contact Teresa about the benefits of having marigolds includes a variety of vegetables, fruit Kpachavi at 884-3844 or send an email to among the tomato plants. trees, berry bushes and flowers. It took [email protected]. scores of volunteer hours to clear the April 2004 7 Plan holds some hope for SR-302 fixes By Rodika Tollefson “The hard part is that highways like this dicting polls and discussions on whether KP News one are not designated as highways of state SR-302 meeting Seattleites are more likely to approve the significance,” said King Cushman, strategy A meeting to address problems with RTID funding if light rail were included. The 1992 State Route 302 corridor adviser with the Puget Sound Regional local roads will be hosted April 6 at 7 Lee says the RTID proposal would be study (see Key Peninsula News, March 2004 Council, which prioritizes road projects p.m. at the Civic Center, with state well thought-out when presented to the edition) has pretty much stopped at that— for the region that includes Pierce County, Sen. Bob Oke, state Rep. Lois public, and says without it there are not being a study. No more funding from the then makes recommendations to the McMahon, and Pierce County many choices left for better local roads. state has been allocated for major Department of Transportation. “Most Councilman Terry Lee as guests. “The gap created by I-776 at local level improvements in the near-future, and highways of state significance are free- is a challenge. Everything is starting to based on conversation with various state ways.” To make the priority even lower, SR- Clifton to 144th Street NW and build a shift backward,” he said. It’s a gap that agency representatives, this highway is 302 is not considered to have high conges- new corridor from 144th to the area of SE once again is not unique to Pierce likely to maintain its status quo without tion —- an important factor that plays into Pine Road off State Route 16. According County, and it seems to only widen the other funding sources. the funding probability formula. to RTID estimates, a new corridor would closed circle of transportation woes. “I’m There is some good news: A few small- Cushman says one way to rock the boat cut congestion time by about an hour not against initiatives, but people may not er improvements are on the way. A por- is by contacting state and federal legisla- and about double the speed of evening understand their full ramifications,” said tion of SR-302, between State Route 3 tors, bring the problem to their attention. commute. Without the new corridor, the Cushman. “I feel compassion for the DOT and Elgin-Clifton, will be repaved this He says such grass-roots efforts have been study estimates congestion to average and the counties in dealing with their year and in 2005 a roundabout will be successful, as long as there is merit to the three hours a day by 2015, with afternoon transportation plans when the money may built there; also in 2005 slope stabiliza- case and agencies like DOT are on board. travel speeds at 22 mph. get rerouted after an initiative.” tion work will be done in the area of the Sen. Bob Oke, who was successful in Lee said in February he would continue Whether or not these same citizens Victor slide, and a traffic signal may be funding the Burley-Olalla Interchange, to push for keeping SR-302 on the RTID who gave a resounding yes to these initia- needed eventually in the area of 94th says he welcomes such public input and plan. In March, the RTID board voted on tives would like to see their pockets get Street NW (but is pending anchor ten- that the Burley-Olalla funding was suc- a $12.4 billion package, slightly smaller hit again remains to be seen. Some local ant/developer negotiations). cessfull exactly through the same strate- than one proposed a few months ago. The residents say they are already paying Still, that work is mostly cosmetic, not gy: pressing the issue, educating other project list would now have to be adjusted, enough but not seeing any services —- addressing traffic congestion or safety on colleagues. Of course, it took a few years. and a final vote on the projects could take those complaints times three coun- the infamous “Wauna curves.” The prob- At county level, the picture is just as come as early as April, amidst some report- ties and that grass-roots lobbying effort lem is that Key Peninsula's road plight is bleak, with Initiative 776 reducing the ed disagreements within the group on the seems easier by comparison. not unlike that of any other rural area in transportation budget by about $5 million size of the total funding, between Seattle the state. While the traffic problem is a per year, according to Pierce County and the rest of the regions, Sound Transit Councilman Terry Lee. But, short of any participation and light-rail funding. But “The hard part is that local grass-roots campaign for lobbying there is one catch to this solution: it’s a tri- highways like this one are elected representatives, Lee may have the county measure, with voters in three coun- most hopeful answer for the Key Peninsula ties having to agree on a tax increase, not designated as residents, called RTID, or Regional which would be a combination of higher highways of state Transportation Investment District. sales tax, license fees and other options. significance.” The RTID is a coalition of Pierce, King The proposal would likely head to the bal- and Snohomish counties, a regional plan lot in November. -King Cushman, Puget that would fund local projects identified “The RTID will have to come and pick as priorities. Establishing a new corridor up those projects (not funded by state),” Sound Regional Council for SR-302 is one of those potential proj- said Oke. “The thing that worries me ects, estimated to cost about $1.3 million about RTID is we’re faced with three big deal for residents, the challenges here of the total $12.4 billion, 15-year package. counties (voting)...” The vote of Seattle are small compared to the network over- One possible solution would be to residents could also make or break the all. widen existing road in the area of Elgin- deal, and there have been long contra- 8 Schools Key Peninsula News

Photos by Hugh McMillan Evergreen Elementary readers carry their “readers’ chain” through the school’s hallways.

Evergreen Elementary had busy month

By Sabra Stratford program students helped in the book give- Evergreen Elementary away that was sponsored by Target. It was a clear indicator that literacy is thriving in March has been full of adventures at the Evergreen community. Evergreen Elementary school. Thanks to On March 9 Target employees Marcy all the volunteers and the local Target Burns, Julia Christman, Krista Ferber, and store, many literacy activities are happen- Cathy Oberts paid a special visit to ing and Evergreen students are benefiting. Evergreen to help the Mitchell kindergart- The second Reading Is Fundamental ners and the Brozie/Presley first graders Day was held March 4 in Evergreen’s celebrate the 100th birthday of Dr. Seuss. It library. The students walked aboard was such fun to have the “Cats in the Hats” Captain Book’s pirate ship to select their read “The Places You’ll Go” to the chil- free book. The library was decorated with dren. Key Peninsula Middle School stu- chests filled with gold and jewels, a crow’s dents made a special trip to Evergreen to nest, sailing mast, and a talking parrot. join in the celebration. The children also More than 20 volunteers were available to received very cool eyeglasses, hats, book- read with children, as 275 students chose a marks and doorknob hangers. It was truly new book to take home. a special treat. About 190 people enjoyed the second Just when you think so many terrific annual Family Reading Night. Peninsula things have taken place, another event School District Administrator Dennis came along to top things off. Evergreen Nugent, Principal Jacque Crisman, District PTA members hosted a wonderful auction Reading Specialist Judi Wilbert, staff mem- at the Longbranch Improvement Club. bers Robin Roe, Rick Gudmunson, Jim The spaghetti dinner donated by business- Inglebritson, and fireman and dad Bob es and parents, many wonderful items for Clawson chose great read-aloud stories to silent and oral auction and raffle items share with those attending. Every child was earned $6,000 for Evergreen. Many long invited to choose a free book, and cookies hours were logged to make this a success- were enjoyed by all. The Evergreen GED ful evening. April 2004 Schools 9 Show & Tell Local students learning and having fun

Left, At the March 19 PHS dance, representatives of the Pierce County Sheriff’s Department involved students in walking a straight line and piloting wheel- chairs while wearing goggles that threw off their vision, in an effec- tive imitation of what it would be like to drive under the influence of alcohol or drugs. Photo by Hugh McMillan

Far left, One Peninsula Athletic Association (PAA) girls’ basketball team, the KPMS Raptors, were joined by their parents at an end- of-season celebration party at Subway.The team’s last game of the season ended in an exciting overtime tie.The girls will go on to play Amateur Athletic Union (AAU) spring league basketball. Photo by Irene Torres

Photo by Hugh McMillan On Friday, March 19, a safe dance was held to the music of a student-oriented DJ at Peninsula High. Pictured here in an incredibly high-flying back flips, are James Hodins in the air and Jonathan Hagen helping from the ground. 10 Schools Key Peninsula News KP residents to open private school Special to KP News Learn more In September, Learning Key Campus, “We are confident that Interested families are invited to an independent, non-denominational the school we are creating attend an informational meeting at the school for children ages 6-9, will open will provide an exciting Key Peninsula Lutheran Church com- doors to its first group of students. Using a munity building on April 6 at 7 p.m. multi-age classroom setting, the school will learning experience for our For more information, call 691-8843 offer a strong academic-based curriculum children. ... We are model- or visit www.learningkeycampus.com within a supportive and engaging learning ing our school on a environment, organizers say. The curricu- theme-based, multi-age Cyndi Cashman-DiBiase, co-founder of lum will integrate subjects such as lan- Carpe Diem Primary School, a successful guage arts, math, science, environmental approach.” school on Vashon Island, has been instru- studies, social studies, physical education, -Stacy Hagen mental in developing Learning Key Spanish, music, community service, the Campus,” said Hagen. “We are modeling arts, and swimming. our school on the similar theme-based, Founders of the new school include gram that encourages students to be multi-age approach.” longtime Peninsula resident Cyndi independent thinkers,” Cashman-DiBiase Learning Key Campus will be housed Cashman-DiBiase, co-founder of Carpe said. in the community building of the Key Diem Primary School and former Annie Learning Key Campus will help each Peninsula Lutheran Church, located on Wright and Peninsula School District child achieve academic excellence the corner of Key Peninsula Highway and teacher; textbook author Stacy Hagen; through individualized instruction. In Lackey Road. para-educator Majda Darling; and former order to accomplish this, Learning Key The school welcomes children of any Gig Harbor Cooperative Preschool Campus will strive to maintain a 12:1 stu- ethnic origin without regard to religious President Traci Michel. dent-teacher ratio while focusing on each preference. Enrollment in the program “As parents living on the Key child’s unique gifts and abilities. is limited to 24 students. Applications Peninsula, we want to offer a choice in “We are confident that the school we are being accepted, and available spaces education for families. Our goal is to cre- are creating will provide an exciting will be filled on a first come, first served ate a positive, engaging academic pro- learning experience for our children. basis. April 2004 Business 11 Good news for fast-food fans Burger King finally coming

Other major Lake Kathryn cent and we had to wait until they came developments promised down.” Zimmerman said. “Funding for the original development was secured By Irene Torres through the Bank of Hong Kong and KP News Shanghai, and they have been the major lending agency through the duration.” Believe it or not, Burger King has final- Zimmerman said that “Burger King is ly applied for a building permit at Lake imminent,” and he hopes it will be built Kathryn Village. At press time, approval during the good weather this summer. was expected within a couple of weeks, He said there are some “very important according to Northwestern General developments underway for Lake Development Corporation Manager Joe Kathryn” that have been in the works for Rhea. Rumors about Burger King, quite some time, but the permitting Safeway, and other development have process with the county has been delayed Photo by Irene Torres Representatives of Lake Kathryn Village say a “major” but so far undisclosed develop- surfaced over the past few years, but Rhea up to six years because of the number of ment is on the way, preceded by Burger King. told the KP News, “There are lots of different agencies involved. One hold-up things going on, but now isn’t the time to has been a major amendment with the Zimmerman. Cost Less Senior Services addition to the shopping center, joining get into it,” and referred questions to the state Department of Transportation and has state contracts for prescription servic- David Ahrens’ Coast Hardware and vet- majority owner, Don Zimmerman of Cost the county Public Works to install a four- es to assisted living facilities, jails, and erinarian Jeff Irwin in the core building, Less Pharmacy, for comment. way stop at 94th (Elgin-Clifton) at State juvenile detention centers. Together, the and the “new” Wauna Post Office, located Zimmerman reflected on the history of Route 302, required to address “ingress two pharmacies employ 30 people, with on site. Lake Kathryn Village, on which he and and egress” conditions. six drivers delivering prescriptions, and “All the details of future expansion Mike Salatino first collaborated “about 16 Cost Less Senior Services, operated by process between 500 and 1,000 prescrip- plans are not appropriate to disclose,” said or 17 years ago, when we bought acreage Jeff Hendrickson and Drew Zimmerman, tions daily. Zimmerman credits “the nice, Rhea, “because nothing can happen until from Mr. and Mrs. Easley and removed a closed-door pharmacy located in Cost loyal people in the community” for Cost they sign on the dotted line, and that has- the stumps from the property.” Less Pharmacy, is the strongest tenant in Less’ success. n’t happened yet.” When it does, Rhea “At the time, interest rates were 21 per- Lake Kathryn Village, according to Peninsula Market is the most recent says, “We’ll be making an announcement.” 12 Business Key Peninsula News KC (and owner) demystify computers

By Debra Katrine McElroy KC Computer Repair Special to KP News owner Bill Horwitz says he is alive today In July of 2003, Bill Horwitz, with the because of his 17- support of his wife, Delrene, opened the year-old son, Aaron. Key Peninsula’s answer to the computer Horwitz opened his and technology challenged, KC Computer shop in 2003 with his Repair. assistant Sheryl Located in the heart of Key Center, KC Mirenta (in the Computer Repair has answered hundreds photo), and later was of questions and solved countless technical joined by his devoted problems ranging from how to turn it on, sidekick, KC (through to how to debug a system plagued by an adoption). overwhelming amount of spyware. Photo by Rodika Tollefson A virus attack on your system? Can’t find a file? A favorite game not running? He’s been unofficially repairing and put- when I’m under the table plugging in a Horwitz and his associate, Sheryl Mirenta, ting together computer systems for years tower, to go to the outside of the edge of have tackled them all. for friends and relatives, and decided it was the table until I’m done. But this one time Horwitz began his journey into comput- time to start his own business. he didn’t do it, and I went to crawl out and ers and programming by taking a vocation- KC Computer Repair offers more than squished him between my back and the al class in Great Falls, Mont., in 1970. At basics. They offer personalized service to table and knocked the wind out of him, I that time, computers were big enough to the community; classes from computer-use guess. I turned to look, and he flew up and walk into, and there was nothing like a and software basics to eBay shopping; and then dropped to the floor,” Horwitz monitor or a mouse. Programming was even house calls. The classes usually take recounted one unfortunate incident. done by punch cards, 88-column cards that about one to three hours each, with addi- “He’s a lot more careful now,” he added, would go into the computer after sorting, tional support for students who require it. laughing. A charming member of the staff, and would come out as a printout. This was KC Computer Repair has another per- KC is a very well cared for and loved cock- computer programming in the 1970s. He manent “worker” who has adopted the atiel. Stop by after 3 p.m. Monday through enrolled in more classes in the ‘80s to keep same name, KC, who mostly sits on Saturday, and say hi. You won’t find a nicer up with the trends in the industry. Horwitz’s shoulder. “KC usually knows that (or funnier) computer guy anywhere. April 2004 Business 13 Brookside back in business

Photo and story by Karen Hale After many months of being vacant, the Brookside Restaurant has new owners, Key Peninsula residents Ron and Shirley Bustad.The property was purchased in March, and is in the process of a major overhaul.The building is being repaired and remodeled, with plans to open by May 1 as a family restaurant.The couple will keep the restaurant’s name the same. According to Shirley Bustad, the menu has not yet been chosen, but the couple knows it will be a family-style restaurant.The adjacent property was also pur- chased and will be a nursery at some time in the future, if everything goes as planned. 14 Key Peninsula News April 2004 15

(From TEACHERS, Page 1) tables, getting pencils and reading books on the tables, but mostly greeting each Andrea said. With John’s almost daily vol- other with smiles and plenty of energy.” unteer help and the after-school support of John says he “is still trying to wake up Jeff, who has his own set of elementary kids with his morning coffee, but the kids are as a teacher at Minter Creek Elementary, going full steam ahead and want to read Andrea and Laura have teamed up for six right now!” So after practicing writing their years teaching kindergarten at Vaughn names on the board, off they go to the Elementary. As if that weren’t enough, reading tables. Andrea’s sister, Judy Watt, a retired teacher, They have several parents who drop in shows up at assessment time to help. They and help the children read first thing in are a real teaching machine. the morning. “It makes a huge difference For Andrea and John Jewell, working for the children,” Andrea said. “Without together started in 1966, when they did the volunteers’ help, our students just their student teaching at Whittier wouldn’t make the tremendous progress Elementary in Fircrest. Before student they experience.” teaching was over, they were dating and Those dedicated volunteers include in August 1966 they married. Diana Nole and Matt Mills, who help in John was born in Brainerd, Minn. “My Andrea’s room, and Erica Verfaillie, in granddad came from Norway,” he said. Laura’s room, every Friday. “My 19-year-old mom and I lived with my Several second and fifth graders come in grandparents while my dad was overseas to be reading coaches to their kinder- Photo by Hugh McMillan in World War II. When my dad was The two generations of Jewells, side-by-side, teaching kindergartners at Vaughn. garten buddies. While John and other vol- assigned to Fort Lewis, he and mom fell unteers gather up materials and set up in love with the Puget Sound area and Second Language at the high school or grandmother and child “Sharing” is at City tables for the next activity, you can hear the we’ve been here ever since.” community college level. But, before enter- Hall in University Place. He is currently children singing songs, often accompanied John and Andrea both attended ing graduate school, she volunteered in sculpting an eight-foot-tall Meriwether by sign language, in both rooms. Woodrow Wilson High School in her mom’s kindergarten classroom at Lewis with his dog Seaman that will be The children are eager to share new Tacoma, but never met. After John grad- Vaughn Elementary. Here she fell in love placed in Fort Lewis, which bears his name. words they have learned in their reading. uated, he attended the University of with teaching young children and decided With Andrea’s retirement and the arrival These are written on the board. Next, they Puget Sound where he took his masters to become an elementary school teacher. of Emma Jane, the teaching team at brainstorm words that rhyme with them. in education. After receiving their teaching certificates Vaughn will change next year. Laura The children are very involved and excited Andrea is a Tacoma native who, after from Western Washington University in intends to teach half-time and Andrea and to see how many words they can read in graduating from Wilson High, also attend- 1997, Jeff and Laura taught together for a John plan to help care for the new baby this way. They help by counting the words, ed UPS for a bachelor’s in education. year at Olympic View Elementary in and have more time with their other saying each word slowly and telling the Again, though on the same campus, John Bremerton. Jeff taught music and Laura, granddaughters: Alice, 4, and Clara, 1. But, sounds that they hear in the words. The and Andrea never met. They finally did kindergarten and first grade. The follow- they added, “of course, we plan to contin- teacher writes them on the board, and this while teaching at Whittier Elementary and ing year they happily accepted contracts to ue being a part of kindergarten at Vaughn is what they call “kid writing.” the rest, as they say, is history. work in the community where they live. by volunteering in Laura’s classroom.” After reading a story, one of the children Then, after visiting several potential Last year, they both received their masters Andrea’s and Laura’s classrooms are said, “This would be a good story to make schools, John went for his doctorate at the in science, focused on teaching literacy. located next to each other, “so what’s hap- a puppet show.” The other children are University of Northern Colorado because Years ago, John and Andrea bought pening in one classroom is very similar to excited. They plan that they will make pup- of its excellent special education program. waterfront vacation property on the Key what is happening in the other. pets after recess and put on shows. The Jewells’ son, John Jr., came along in Peninsula near her parents and moved Throughout the morning children move And so it goes. The deft touch of the December of 1969 and daughter Laura here permanently in 1995, “because we back and forth,” said Andrea. “A typical Jewells infusing our youngsters with a pas- in1972. Thereafter, Andrea was an at-home love it out here,” they declared. day starts with early kindergarten arrivals sion for learning. And even though there mom while their two children were small. John taught fifth and sixth grades, has helping prepare both classrooms for the will be a changing of the guard, count on John Jr. is now a builder and music teacher been a special education director and an day. The children pitch in getting name it, the Jewells will continue to share this in Indianola, Wash. elementary school principal. He has a doc- tags ready, taking chairs down from the passion —- if only as volunteers. His sister Laura teaches kindergarten at torate in education and taught part time Vaughn Elementary. That is, she did until for several universities. Andrea taught par- the following notification came from her enting classes, cooperative preschools, dad: “Thought you’d like to know, Laura including one at the Washington delivered a 6-pound, 2-ounce baby girl, Corrections Center for Women in Purdy, Emma Jane. She’s the most …beautiful and kindergarten through third grade at baby in the world who arrived at 12:16 Minter Creek and Vaughn. a.m., March 19. The baby swam to her dad She will retire this year after 27 years as a at the top of the birth tub doing the dog teacher. Her Vaughn Elementary col- paddle. Both mom and Emma Jane are leagues are not looking forward to this. healthy and doing fine.” “She will be sorely missed,” is often heard Emma Jane’s dad, Jeff Stafki, has taught in the school’s corridors. at Minter Creek Elementary for six years. John retired in 1996 after more than 30 Laura and Jeff were in college when they years in education, to pursue a sculpting met and were married in 1994. Laura, after career. His marvelous work, the two chil- living and studying abroad in Italy and dren “Balancing the Books,” can be seen at Martinique, planned to teach English as a the Key Center Library. His sculpture of a 16 Community Works Key Peninsula News

Lions Club events 10 a.m. at the Civic Center and every Wednesday at 7 p.m. in the same building The Key Peninsula Lions Club will host where the blueberry sale is (13108 125th “White Cane Days” on April 30-May 1. KPFD delivers awards St. Court). For information, call Corky or Donations will be used to promote Lions’ Cheri’ at 884-2368. eye health programs. The Key Peninsula Lions Club will spon- Shop — Donate — sor its annual Volksmarch on July 10 and Volunteer 11. It will begin at a parking area near Bud Ulsh’s home on Ulsh Road. For details con- Shop- Donate - Volunteer is the slogan of tact Hugh McMillan at 884-3319. the SAVE Thrift Store in Purdy. Open 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. daily except Wednesday and Play bingo at Evergreen Sunday, the shop offers exceptional values in used clothing, shoes, toys, games, house- The Evergreen Elementary fifth grade wares, books, jewelry and other assorted fund-raising committee is sponsoring a items. New arrivals daily means shoppers Bingo Night on April 30, 7 p.m. in the gym, never know what treasures may await them. and public is invited. Bingo is open to ages Those present at the dinner who received awards included Monica Wolverton, Hal While prices are always low, three days a 10 to 110, but children under 18 must be Wolverton, Ruth Bramhall, Barbara and Dick Granquist, Lindsey Smith, Chief Eric month are devoted to bag sales. A kids’ bag accompanied by a parent. Come and win Livingood Nelsen, Guy Allen, Robert Bosch, and Mike Riegle. sale is held the first Tuesday of each great prizes and cash! They will also have month. Shoes and clothes for children up Junior Bingo for kids in grades K – 5, open Photo and story by Hugh McMillan Kehli Vanscoyk, Betty Nelsen, Fred and to size 12 are sold for $3 per bag. In April, to children who have a parent playing KP News Mary Ramsdell, Hal and Monica the children’s bag sale is on the 6th. bingo. All proceeds go toward paying for Wolverton, Dick and Barbara Granquist, The middle Saturday of the month — in fifth graders to go to camp. Call Marcia at In March, Key Peninsula’s finest met Ruth Bramhall, Robert Bosch, Guy this case, April 17 — features a $5 bag sale 884-9577 for details. at Miracle Ranch to celebrate the annu- Allen, and Mike Reigle for their success- on clothes and shoes of all sizes. And the al Key Peninsula Fire Department ful work on the fire engine levy of 2003. Tuesday prior to the last Thursday of the Tops #WA 1019, Vaughn Awards Dinner. The first of the awards, Nelsen also honored members of the month sees a $3 bag sale, again for all sizes. holds rummage sale Service Pins, were presented by Chief district’s “Ashes” Auxiliary, Marguerite In April that falls on the 27th. This final Eric Livingood Nelsen to firefighters Bill Bussard, Sharon Cavanaugh, Carrie bag sale is followed by Thursday’s new TOPS #WA 1019, Vaughn had its elec- Sawaya and Todd Vanskoyk for five Durham-Smith, Lois Conn, Dee Dee selections day when all the wearables in the tion of officers for the new year. The group years, Dale Heidal and Darrin Marsh for Kerkes, and Marie Schwenka. store have been replaced by fresh mer- welcomes Fred Davis as the new co-leader, 10, Chuck West for 20, and Gerald Scott Campbell was recognized as chandise. Besides the designated bag sale along with returning officers, Joetda Marsh for 30 years. He presented the career firefighter and Tom Lique as days, other items are offered at discounts Wickline as leader, Jena Henak as treasur- district’s Outstanding Service Award to career officer. The Chief’s Award went from 25 to 50 percent off regular prices er, Mary Johnson as secretary, Frankie Local 3152, the district’s affiliate with to firefighter/paramedic Mike Reigle. throughout the month. Johnson and Louise Harrison as the weight the International Association of The Firefighters Association Award went The profits go to support the activity recorders. Their installation was conduct- Firefighters. The yearly awards were to Lindsey Smith and the Union groups and the scholarship program at ed by former member Carol Bishoff, who is given to Wes Vanslyke, volunteer fire- Recognition Award was accepted by its Peninsula High School. If you have never now with the Burley chapter. fighter; Brian Pearce, rookie firefighter; president, Robert Bosch. The only low visited the store, it is easy to find. Location Three couples are part of the group, and Jeremiah Stilley, resident volunteer fire- point of the evening came with the is below Peninsula High, 1 ½ blocks north this year TOPS is having a special geared fighter; Robert Fisher, volunteer officer; announcement that Division Chief Tracy of the Hwy. 302 intersection in Purdy. toward new couples: when one person Hal Wolverton, top trainer. Lyon is transferring from the Key Donations are accepted during store joins or renews annual membership, the The Helping Hands Award went to Peninsula to the Gig Harbor Fire hours. Community volunteers are always spouse joins at half-price, which is $10. Lindsey Smith, Glen Pszczola, Todd and Department. He will be missed. welcomed, too. Please call Kris at 857-2800 This year’s rummage sale will be held on if you would like more information. April 24 from 9 a.m. – 3 p.m. in the —By Marsha Williams Whitmore room. The proceeds benefit the mation, call Virginia at 884-2588 or Rodika weekly home fellowship groups. rally fund so the group can attend various at 857-6564. Fishermen’s breakfast and meetings statewide. TOPS meets every Blueberry bushes for sale yard sale Tuesday in the VFW Room from 6-8 p.m. Church explores ‘40 days at fund-raiser Weigh-in is from 6-7 p.m. For questions, of Purpose’ The annual Fishermen’s Breakfast at the call 884-3456. The Key Peninsula 7th Day Adventist Key Peninsula Sportsmen’s Club will be —By Jena Henak Throughout history one question has Church will hold its blueberry sale begin- held Sunday, April 25 from 7:30 a.m. to been asked the world over: “What on earth ning April 11, Monday through Thursday, Noon. The “all you can eat” breakfast Writers group welcomes am I here for?” On April 25, the Lakebay 1 p.m. to 6 p.m. at 13108 125th St. Court includes pancakes, ham & eggs with lots of new members Community Church begins 40 Days of off Key Peninsula Highway (parking lot of fruit juice and great coffee for only $5. Purpose as members explore “The KC Auto Sales). The proceeds go toward Children under 6 eat free. The Key Peninsula writers’ group creat- Purpose Driven Life” by Rick Warren. This the church’s building fund. Organizers The breakfast has been an annual event ed last fall under the auspices of Two New York Times No. 1 selling book offers a said they have only about 600 plants this for many years, and also serves as an oppor- Waters Arts Alliance welcomes local aspir- biblical perspective that has transformed year and expect the sale to end in a couple tunity for many of the area’s old-timers to ing and published writers to join them for the lives of millions. of weeks—so don’t miss your chance. meet and reminisce. Raffle tickets will be writing and peer critique every Saturday Find out how five spiritual principles can Some raspberry and strawberry plants will on sale during the breakfast with a chance from 9 a.m. to noon. In April and May, the help you learn to live a life full of purpose. also be available. to win many wonderful prizes, including a group will meet at the Key Center Library Join in this spiritual adventure at the 10:30 Church members also invite anyone to luxurious dollhouse. for every session except May 8. For infor- a.m. Sunday Worship Service and in the come worship with them every Saturday at Another event scheduled for the same April 2004 Community Works 17 Communities in School-Peninsula participates in state conference Five representatives of Communities In Schools-Peninsula attended an all-day CIS State Conference in Tukwila in March. Delegations from throughout the state split into classes presented by experts on subjects from methods of raising funds, dealing with the media, community support projects, means of expanding public involvement in schools, and a plethora of other supportive subjects. Among presenters were our local CIS-P Executive Director Colleen Speer; Dexter Reuhl, who was recently appointed to the state CIS board; and Rochelle Doan. The high point of the day was a chance before and after his address to the gathering to have hand to hand, face to face conversation with the founder and still president of CIS, Bill Millikan, an extraordinarily unpretentious, humorous, tough minded, driven proponent of the need for communities to be directly and intimately involved in our schools. Millikan is the author of the best-selling guide to successful child management, “Tough Love.”

In the photo: CIS-P treasurer Ed Lazar with Dexter Reuhl, Bill Millikan, Colleen Speer, and Rochelle Doan. Photo and story by Hugh McMillan weekend is the club’s annual yard sale. The shopping experience. This month we have and the Key Peninsula Civic Center’s The best losers last month were Gloria two-day event begins Saturday, April 24, Easter items in every corner of the store replacement purchase of tables and chairs. Bowman in first place and Ken Pinyard in from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. and continues on and we’re almost positive you will be able Thought for the month: One little smile second. Great job! Watching your success Sunday from 7:30 a.m. to 12. Both events to find what you need. We love our cus- can fill a whole room with sunshine. helps us all. So come and join the success- will be held at the KP Sportsmen’s Club tomers. A special thanks to Mindy for —By Mary Ramsdell ful losers at T.O.P.S. #WA 1325, Lakebay. located on Jackson Lake Road in Lakebay. another great “above and beyond” type —By Mary Nelson The Key Peninsula Sportsmen’s Club, a donation. Bayshore Garden Club nonprofit organization, has been a mem- We are again asking for people to Middle school students ber of the Pierce County Sportsmen’s become Angels and help fill our open The Bayshore Garden Club will meet at wanted for dance night Council since 1947 and regularly supports spaces. Due to injury and illness we have 1 p.m. at the Longbranch Fire Station on the activities of our area’s youth. Your par- lost some of our willing workers. If you April 9. The hostess is Erma Dunn. Peg Middle school students, join your friends ticipation in this event helps make it possi- have a few hours a month to spare and Robertson will present the Theme for a fun night that include snacks, KUBE ble for local youth to attend summer camp, would like to be part of a fun group that Program. Sylvia Retherford will discuss 93 DJ, basketball, karaoke and games participate in Little League, and provide likes to work for the good of your commu- conservation. Ann Waldo will present the including Velcro wall and sumo wrestling other services to our community. nity, please contact Bonnie at 884-5983 or design. Call Sylvia at 884-2487. suits. Sponsored by the Peninsula Nancy at 857-2321. Recreation Program, the April 9 dance is Spring (and sales) are At the last meeting, we helped the Key TOPS #WA 1325 invites hosted by the Key Peninsula Middle School busting out all over Peninsula Trails group with funds to print you to get in shape from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. Cover charge is $5, its next book, “Kayaking around the Key and you must be a student from the local What a fabulous variety of items we find Peninsula,” Peninsula High Band with six Do you love winter because warm bulky middle schools (bring your ASB card). when we browse the aisles of the Angel scholarships, Minter Creek Elementary clothes hide your extra pounds? Do you Students who check in will not be allowed Guild Thrift Shop. Each day is a different PTA with the reading incentives program dread hot weather and unbecoming to leave before 9 p.m. unless a parent is clothes? Well, how many more days ‘til called and picks them up. Easter family fun on KP summer? Just enough to make a difference Jackets, purses and backpacks will not be Boy Scout Troop 220, and is open to all in your weight if you get busy and let allowed, and school district clothing guide- children of the Key Peninsula from tod- Civic Center T.O.P.S. (Take Off Pounds Sensibly) help lines must be followed. Call 858-5524. dlers to 12 years old. you to discover a new you. The Key Peninsula If anyone has plastic Easter eggs, bas- Tuesday mornings at 9 a friendly group RLS Foundation seeks to Civic Center and kets or stuffed animals to donate for the of men and women meet at the Home Fire Boy Scout Troop form local support group event, please contact Jackie Ray at 857- Station to get and give encouragement. 220 will hold the 7667. Over coffee and tea we discuss the success- The RLS (Restless Leg Syndrome) annual Easter Egg es and problems of the week and weigh in Foundation would like to set up a support hunt for residents of YMCA Camp Colman (privately). At 9:30 we have a short meeting group in this area if there are 10-12 people the Key Peninsula on YMCA Camp Colman will host a com- and then it is time for the speaker. So far interested. There could be 1,500 residents Saturday, April 10, at noon at the Civic plementary Spring Community Breakfast this year we have heard from the man who of the Key Peninsula with some form of Center. and Easter Egg Hunt(for children to had lost the most weight in Washington RLS if the national average of 10 percent The Easter Bunny will hand out candy grade 5) on Saturday, April 10. Breakfast state last year. His experiences were very applies here. You are also invited to come and treats, and a giant blow-up bunny will will be served from 9 a.m.-10 a.m. and the interesting and the suggestion of drinking to a meeting of the Tacoma Area RLS be on display for family pictures. Plus, egg hunt starts at 10. RSVP by April 7 to a large glass of water before each meal will Support Group on Saturday, April 10, from there will be special Easter baskets for 884-5772. Camp Colman is located next help all of us manage our meals better. 1:00 to 2:30 pm at the Lakewood Library. children who find the specially stuffed to Joemma State Park. Also we heard the experiences of a woman For information or questions, call Marian Easter eggs. For church Easter services information, see who lost 100 pounds twice in her life and at 253-582-1069 or Marty Marcus at 884- The annual event is sponsored by the page 31. how TOPS helped her to finally keep it off. 2213. If you need a ride, call Marty. Peninsula Civic Center and organized by 18 People & Lifestyles Key Peninsula News

They usually swam at Sunshine Beach, rather look at water than a hedge, they From Pioneer Stock but if the tide was out, they went to returned to Vaughn, adding a second Carney Lake. bedroom and a garage. Helen Wolniewicz She participated in school sports, and Helen commuted to Tacoma Medical was called “Flea” because she was small Lab until retiring at 62. Not wishing to sit By Colleen Slater until her sophomore year. around the home, she soon had a job at KP News The school tennis court was the meet- Camp Colman as “handy girl” for a cou- ing place for young people in summer. ple of months each spring and fall. Food “You have a fine son,” the doctor told When it became too dark to play, they Manager Katha Neal made superior the woman, “but the girl isn’t too good.” moved to the Vaughn sandspit for a bon- French bread, which Helen loved, and Helen Wolniewicz was the girl, twin to fire, wiener and marshmallow roasting. once she was blamed for taking a piece Harmon Van Slyke. They celebrated 85th Helen’s mother sang in church choir while it was cooling. Manager Bob Neal birthdays on Valentine’s Day. and at funerals, her father played fiddle, later admitted to the crime. Growing up in Vaughn, a stone’s throw Martha piano, and Harmon the trumpet. Helen also filled retirement with mem- from where she now lives, Helen and Both siblings sang, but Helen claims she’s bership in the Key Peninsula Senior Harmon picked huckleberries to sell at not the least bit musical. Society, Cootiettes, garden and sports- 10 cents per pound. They also picked Helen and Harmon’s Class of ‘37 was men’s clubs, and continues to participate blackberries until they heard Harriman’s first to graduate from the new high in them. boat start up. They’d hurry to the dock school gym. Don Wolniewicz, who Except for measles and a few aspirin, “I with their fresh produce. dropped out for a year to help his par- hadn’t been sick a day in my life, and had- Grandma Van Slyke paid them a nickel ents, graduated with them. n’t taken any pills” until her heart attack a bag of bark for her heating stove. Don and Helen married the following at age 63. So the girl who wasn’t “too They paid 15 cents each to see movies year and moved to Tacoma. Their “sum- good” on her start in life proved she’s at the Vaughn Library Hall. Hector Photo courtesy of Helen Wolniewicz mer shack” at Vaughn was the old made out just fine. Kavario always announced he had “the Twins Harmon Van Slyke and Helen Davidson boat shed. Originally her latest production from Hollywood!” Wolniewicz at their 84th birthday on Feb. grandfather’s property, Helen’s dad “I hadn’t been sick a day 14, 2003. The twins cleaned up after Amaranth bought back the land where some of his in my life, and hadn’t meetings in the Hall. Harm swept and descendants now live, including Helen Helen washed dishes, heating the dish- any work. She’s upstairs reading those old and Harmon. taken any pills.” pan on the wood stove. books!” She’s still an avid reader. Son Gerry added a bedroom and a Before she married, Helen was church Helen once swam across the bay from bathroom while he lived in the shack. -Helen Wolniewicz janitor for a while, earning 25 cents per their home, “just to show I could do it.” When Don retired in 1975, and said he’d Sunday. One job was carrying in wood for the pot-bellied stove. Sunday School picnics and Girl Scout campouts were held at Twanoh State Park. On one occasion Helen sliced the tip of her finger while cutting kindling. The leader quickly boiled salt water, Helen stuck her finger in and fainted. A second time, another faint. The leader fussed, but Helen said if she had to do it again, she’d faint again, so that ended that. She cleaned upstairs while sister Martha did the downstairs. One day, as Helen sat reading near the stove pipe that went through the floor, she heard Martha say, “Mama, Helen’s not doing April 2004 People & Lifestyles 19 Sustainable living on the Key Peninsula Making bio-diesel and wind generators By Karen Hale hurt, it’s too long to list here, but you can is run through the wires to the batteries. KP News call Bressette with any questions, including The more batteries you have, the more about the next meeting of the Northwest power you can store. (Bressette is currently Editor’s note: This is part 2 in a series high- Solar Group. They love to inform and pass making an off-building to house the batter- lighting sustainable living and tips from Key on knowledge, but stress safety above all. ies he has and will be adding more.) The Pen resident Ed Bressette. batteries charge and store power. They run Wind generators their power in DC (there are some wind Everyone who read about Ed Bressette Another favorite project of Bressette’s is generators that come as AC running units, (see KP News, March 2004), now knows he is his wind generator. There are many differ- but most are DC) and are wired to an a man willing to take the time to create ent types, but to have an effective one, you inverter that then converts the power to ways to live sustainably. This includes tak- need to know the conditions of your area. AC for use in the home and elsewhere. ing time to read through the Little Nickel Bressette checked online and many other Bressette feels the best source of infor- for parts for systems as well as, at times, sources to determine the actual wind mation for any home projects is entire systems. Bressette actually bought an speed average on any given day —not just www.homepower.com. It has links to every- entire water system in the box that way, Washington wind, but Peninsula wind. The thing you can think of for sustainable proj- unused. Some might call it “scrounging,” contours of the land account for a lot of ects as well as events in your community. but it sure beats paying new prices. the various conditions. Bressette has deter- The Northwest Solar Group is now offi- mined that in our area, the average wind cially a nonprofit organization and can Bio-diesel speed is only 1 mph! The major variable to more quickly designate projects and edu- One of Bressette’s biggest accomplish- that is the fact that most of our wind comes cational demonstrations as well as printing ments is making bio-diesel, actual diesel at two times of the year— spring and fall. periodicals —one of their dreams. They gas that can be used in motorized vehicles Photo by Rodika Tollefson This information is not to be found in believe that the periodicals are the most designed to run on it. Believe it or not, Ed Bressette’s bio-diesel pump. the national records, either. Bressette now important part of what they do education- combining cooking oil with methanol and has a wireless weather monitor (can be ally because they can take people safely lye makes bio-diesel. Bressette gets a lot of dark brown — not very attractive. They obtained at Target stores) at home where through the process of their project from his cooking oil from Lulu’s Homeport would love to sell the soaps, but everyone he can check the conditions at any given beginning to end: Uninformed experi- restaurant and Dexter’s in Purdy, or other thinks they are ugly and won’t buy. time. He was very excited on March 5 at mentation leads to avoidable accidents. companies and co-ops off the Peninsula. Another step is knowing length of time 3:55 p.m. when he discovered his maxi- Bressette first tried batches in his home for the cooking process and watching for mum wind speed that day was 11 mph. Find out more blender. Then he progressed to a 5-gallon any mechanical failures (hasn’t happened This is great for charging up the batteries Information about the Northwest Solar bucket. Things went so well he kept going yet). It seems to be a complicated process, quickly. Bressette also has a wind gauge at Group, including meeting details and and made a tank with a trolling motor for but when Bressette describes it, it sounds the generator so he can calculate the wind upcoming events, is available at internal stirring in his yard that holds 60 like anyone can do it. The main thing to speed and how much power was produced www.nwsolargroup.com. The group will liquid gallons, connected to a storage tank. keep in mind is the amount of chemicals, at that current speed. have a booth at a community fair at PLU It has a filtration system and flows into a gas stirring, time and filtration. Because of the low wind speeds here, the on Saturday, April 3, and will demon- pump. He currently runs his diesel tractor Don’t try this at home! Bressette has best type of wind generator to erect is a strate how to make batch hot water. on it, but needs to buy a diesel car! His made sure to inform anyone who asks for multi-blade type. The more blades, the bet- With questions, contact Ed Bressette at friends from the Northwest Solar Group information regarding any of his projects ter chance you have of catching maximum 884-6225 or [email protected]. come and gas up all the time. that they need guidance and information wind. At a 1 mph average, you need a lot of To learn about making bio-diesel, There are many steps to this process that before attempting anything alone for the blades for any feeble movement at all. The Bressette recommends the book “From include multiple filterings of byproduct, first time. It is truly dangerous in many more blades you have, the more torque the Fryer to the Fuel Tank, The Complete which mostly happens to be glycerin. This cases, as you are working with electricity, you get and the more power you generate. Guide to Using Vegetable Oil as an glycerin can be retained and cut into bars chemical compounds of many types and The process basically is this: The blades Alternative Fuel” by Joshua Tickell. for pure glycerin soap, but it comes out heavy parts. There are so many ways to get turn in the wind, which creates energy that 20 People & Lifestyles Key Peninsula News KP Senior Society: Having a jolly good time

By Colleen Slater KP News Join the Senior Society If you are a senior citizen and like Thursday is a special day for many food, fellowship, games and humor, or senior citizens around the Peninsula. would like to make new friends, the KP Members of the Key Peninsula Senior Senior Society invites you to join in. Society and guests gather at the Key Join them every Thursday at noon at Peninsula Civic Center for their weekly the Civic Center for lunch and stay for potluck, socializing and game playing. a game of cards. Rose Malmgren is the The group originated in 1979 and 10 contact person at 884-5052. years later had 100 members. Currently, they average 25 to 27 in attendance. Virginia Adkisson, who has been a sale. Members contribute a 25-cent member for 20 years, lives in Silverdale. donation each week for coffee, etc. Her grandfather was the first and only The group contributes to Community druggist in Vaughn in the early days of House regularly and subscribes to the community. copies of Senior Scene, which are avail- Rose Malmgren, secretary, claims that Photo by Colleen Slater able at their weekly gatherings. Clockwise from left, Lou and Bob Mauk, Victor and Arminda Doggett are playing “I this group is the best way for retired Jim Nolan, longtime historian and Buy” Rummy. people to get acquainted in the commu- publicity chairman who died in March, nity. She and husband Walt started com- is greatly missed and will not be easily ing shortly after moving to the area and month, and run by Robert’s Rules of dish, coffee, napkins and decorations. replaced. soon made friends and found out more Order, Malmgren notes. Meetings begin Chuck Williamson has been chief cook Some members stay until 4 p.m. on about the area. Helen Wolniewicz was with the flag salute, and business for about 12 years, and Jim Blundell is Thursdays to play cards. Although a elected president in 1986, within a year includes noting birthdays, attendance chief dishwasher. cribbage board and backgammon are of her retirement and joining the and fund-raising. This year, the usual plant sale will not available to the group, the usual game organization. A monthly party is held with the be held, but president Adkisson is ask- players are for Bridge, Pinochle, and A business meeting is held once each organization funding meat or main ing for items to be added to her garage Shanghai Rummy. April 2004 People & Lifestyles 21

During World War II ing, gardening and sharing her plants with there, and continued volunteering until Obituary she worked for Boeing countless friends. She especially enjoyed last year. Ruby supported the Evergreen and was the first woman participating in the Capitol District Garden Encouragement Scholarship Fund to help Ruby Elizabeth Wegner Hatch yard master in the Club’s activities and flower shows over local graduates attend college. Seattle train yards. many decades. Ruby attended Lakebay Family members include sister Edie and Ruby Elizabeth Wegner Hatch, resident When Bob returned Community Church since 1952 and regu- husband Ken Bushnell, of Gig Harbor; of Home since 1946, died Feb. 12, 2004. from the war, they trav- larly drove many children to Sunday daughters Rebecca Robert and Roberta She was born in 1913 in Oklahoma and eled extensively in HATCH School. Her faith was an encouragement Hooker with husband Jerry; grandchildren due to her father’s military service, moved Mexico before settling to those who knew her. and great-grandchildren; and best friend often, as far away as Panama and the in Home. They were married 54 years She was an avid supporter of reading of 56 years, Edith Pinder of Home. Philippines. She graduated from Pt. when Bob passed away in 1997. with children, starting her own story time Ruby’s life was celebrated Feb. 28 at the Townsend High School in 1926. Ruby was one of the original members of for preschoolers in the 1950s, being one of Longbranch Improvement Club. An art While working as a waitress in Seattle, Bayshore Garden Club, remaining active the original parent volunteers at Evergreen display in her honor will be at the Kimball Ruby met her future husband, Robert. until her death. She loved flower arrang- Elementary, the first instructional assistant Gallery in Gig Harbor beginning May 24. 22 Key Peninsula News

(From PARKS, Page 1) department, who say they don’t anticipate sales tax revenue to be changing dramati- needed to carry out a variety of improve- cally in the near future. ments and programs. Those who favor creation of an MPD Salatino suggested during a previous have repeatedly declined to discuss any conversation with KP News that the MPD potential budget that would show what the would “…provide us with perpetual fund- $100,000 would pay for (see a budget sce- ing from existing tax revenues already nario devised by KP News, related story, being paid to the county to fund “How far could MPD stretch $100,000?” on zoo/trek,” and the MPD formation com- p. 23). The committee would only say that mittee has maintained that the creation of it would be up to the newly elected com- the district would not raise taxes but simply missioners to decide how such funds would “recapture sales tax you already pay.” be spent. The new commissioners would However, should residents vote to approve be elected concurrently with the creation the new district, they will be creating a of the MPD itself—the second part of the board that will have the power to impose ballot will have candidates’ names, with the levies every year without the taxpayers’ five with the most votes comprising the approval—essentially casting a vote to new board. potentially authorize new taxes. ‘No new taxes’? Zoo/trek sales tax Another aspect not widely disclosed— From the start, the Key Peninsula until KP News began pressing the commit- Metropolitan Park Formation Committee, tee for answers in February— was the fact led by Chairman Ben Thompson, and with that under state law (RCW 35.61.210), the encouragement from the Key Peninsula duly elected members of a Metropolitan Parks and Recreation District led by Park Board would have the power to raise Salatino, have maintained that an MPD taxes up to 75-cents per-year per $1,000 would not only provide a stable source of worth of assessed property, in addition to funding bu talso relieve the Peninsula’s the theoretical $100,000 from the zoo/trek taxpayers of the need to pass special levies tax, and without specific approval from like the one voters rejected by a narrow local taxpayers. Potential budget scenarios compiled by Key Peninsula News (to be used for illustration margin last September. That notion is There are limits set by a formula, howev- purposes only and not intended for official MPD use). based on the fact that an MPD would stand er, which would currently hold such to share in the revenues produced by a increases to a maximum of 25 cents per er of the local adult softball league, said the limited allowed increase to the aggregate county sales tax that is already being col- $1,000 of assessed property value, based on league was concerned with not knowing amount per year (that lid can be “lifted” lected. “What happens with sales tax for 2004 levy figures. Those limits would how commissioners will spend the money through the regular voter election process zoos and parks is that one half of the change once again in 2005, as each senior and whether all the parks would be treated for additional levies or bonds). “It would money goes to accredited zoos and parks, taxing district resubmits yearly levy figures. fairly. The softball league together with give them (the MPD) the lowest priority,” and most of the other half goes to parks In contrast, taxpayers would have paid only other Key Pen Sports Center users form when it comes to levy assessment, Madsen and recreation, depending on the popula- 10 cents per $1,000 of assessed property the only source of revenue for the park said. tion a particular area has,” said Byron values had they approved the KPPRD levy board currently. The MPD committee is What that means is other districts—such Olson, director of management and budg- last fall. The MPD board will also have the relying on these user groups to help gener- as fire, library, county roads and county et for the city of Tacoma’s MPD. “For authority to issue bonds against the levy ate “yes” votes. “existing projects”—get first priority on example, Tacoma gets about two-sevenths income without voter approval. “In my opinion, everything we’re doing annual levy amounts, based on their indi- of that, because we have about two-sev- “You have to careful with how much is for the good of the community and they vidual limit, and all junior districts such as enths of the population.” Tacoma, in fact, information you feed to the public,” need to be more upfront,” Carpenter said. MPDs created after 2002 would be prorat- had one of the few MPDs in the state until Thompson said in early March in explana- “My concern is that in a couple of years ed first—which is why currently only 25 the Legislature authorized in 2002 for tion to why the levy authority was not being down the road they will come back with a cents of the 75 would be available to an unincorporated areas to form such dis- discussed in promotional literature and levy, and people will not like that because MPD before the $5.90 limit is met. tricts. public meetings so far. “Just the name is they are being told there will not be new “The only reason there is any money left However, when asked whether income confusing, the very concept is confus- taxes.” for the metropolitan park district is from the zoo/trek tax was likely to fluctu- ing…We’re trying to get a message across The fact that an MPD board would be because of the other levies that are not at ate with the economy, Olson said, “You bet! to the populace and if you make it too authorized to impose a levy within a few their maximum amount,” said Mae You try and forecast as best you can. You complicated, they will not absorb it.” months, without any voter approval, was Shepard-Smith with the county’s levy work with folks to create an economic fore- Thompson contended that he didn’t news to Carpenter. But even with the office. cast based on past history. It fluctuates by think the possibility of new taxes would potential $100,000—a windfall compared Although the MPD formation commit- year and by month.” make the issue more negative—and that with the current district’s projected tee insists there are no immediate taxes to That means that a newly formed MPD’s “there aren’t going to be new taxes as a $20,000 income—and with the potential be created and that they are not going yearly anticipated revenue of $100,000 direct result of the creation of the district.” additional 75 cent levy, the MPD could after the “17 cents” (the figure used in orig- would largely depend on how well the “The information is available to anyone come up short and have to ask voters for inal discussions and by other media instead economy is doing—although on the flip who wants to research it, I certainly don’t more. That’s because as a junior taxing dis- of the correct 25 cent), the decision would side, an increase in sales tax revenue would advocate withholding information,” he trict, the MPD “would only get the crumbs be made by the new board, not them. In potentially increase that income accord- said. from the bottom of the pile,” in the words Gig Harbor, a group going through a simi- ingly. The good news is for the time being But this “need to know” approach has of County Assessor-Treasurer Ken Madsen, lar process, in fact, is banking mostly on the economy forecast looks good, accord- left some tentative supporters with unan- in a complex formula that sets the limit for ing to officials from the county’s budget swered questions. Kym Carpenter, treasur- all local district levies at $5.90 per year with (See PARKS, Page 23) April 2004 23 How far could $100,000 be stretched? (From PARKS, Page 22)

By William C. Dietz and Rodika Tollefson County for unincorporated areas,” said that levy to fund a proposed Gig Harbor KP News Councilman Terry Lee. “The county is fine Metropolitan Park District. And, based on with that because they expect those dis- their population count, the zoo/trek tax The zoo/trek tax that would be fun- tricts will take over county-owned parks in would bring in $200,000 a year, with about neled to Key Pen parks, estimated at their areas.” Jan Wolcott, director of Pierce triple that from the levy based on the cur- $100,000 annually, would bring in a County Parks and Recreation, said while rent capacity. “In our view, there is money healthy amount of money to allow a local the KPMPD would not have to accept the available now and it doesn’t make sense park district function comfortably. It’s five properties, “it seems the justification to not to (collect it),” said Eric Guenther, one times more than the current estimated become a park district is for local gover- of the organizers of the Gig Harbor MPD. income from user fees, and about double nance—perhaps the local district could do “The levy rate is what’s on the table….but what last year’s failed levy would have a better job than the county is doing” with it’s all fluid and will be all decided by the brought per year. However, no budget or those parks, especially “if they are serious elected board.” any suggested direction was being dis- about becoming a metro park district.” cussed for using that money, as the organ- With basic costs of running the current ‘Commissioners are key’ izing committee and the current commis- district at about $70,000 and another Levy or not, Carpenter is uneasy about sioners note that it would be up to the $60,000 worth of maintenance and voting for a sort of an open concept—a Park improvements needed, based on newly elected board to make decisions. improvements the current parks could use district that would receive money, yet no figures presented to voters during the To see how far the tax can be stretched, (based on figures given to voters during one knows how it will be spent and what 2003 KPPRD levy campaign. the Key Peninsula News created a mock last levy campaign, see graphic), and with parks will be favored until new members budget to reflect a couple of scenarios (see the potential added costs of being essen- are elected. She is one of several residents related issues every day, said while the dis- table, p.22). The scenarios are based on tially an incorporated district—it becomes who express that concern. Which is why, trict has many advantages, creating it “isn’t the needs the current board identified clear why some residents are concerned Thomspon said, the new commissioners the perfect answer to anything.” when it went to the public for money last whether the money would be fairly spent. are the key. Not only would the commis- “It’s not like it’s free money,” he said. September, and estimates of the additional The MPD could attract grants and issue sioners have the authority to vote them- “Once you create one, taxes will go up. costs that would be generated by an MPD. bonds—but some grants, such as the Real selves an annual salary of up to $6,720 but Folks need to really understand what they Two things become apparent: The theoret- Estate Excess Tax (REET) that could give it would also be their responsibility to will pay and what services they will receive. ical $100,000 could be gone very quickly, KP up to $150,000 have to be matched— choose which projects and parks would get It’s important to make sure that you don’t and while it would capture money already which means if the MPD decides to apply the money. That includes the possibility of create false expectations.” paid by Key Peninsula residents through for a $60,000 REET grant, $30,000 would future parks, including the Purdy Spit, cur- Thompson, Salatino and other commit- taxes but used for parks elsewhere, it need to be matched, likely from the rently owned by the county, but which tee members maintain that without the would also likely cost voters more money, $100,000 coming in, leaving that much less would be offered to the MPD. If the MPD MPD the future of the Key Peninsula Park just like a KPPRD levy would have. to spend on operations because the REET accepted the ownership of the park, it will is up in the air, and the Sports Center gates “Whenever you are a separate political grant would be park-specific. Same with wind up deciding the fate of the some- may have to be locked come summertime. entity, the county can’t do things for free the bond, unless the board wants to go to times-controversial Wauna Post Office his- “What will Little League and adult anymore,” said Byron Olson, director of voters for approval (which would increase toric building. organizations do this summer?” management and budget for the city of taxes), they could bond against income— Pierce County Councilman Terry Lee Thompson said. “We are offering a Tacoma’s MPD. “You need to buy insur- but that means the bond must be paid supports the MPD proposal, and planned dependable method of financing for the ance, hire an attorney, hire staff, pay for back out of that same income, reducing to promote it extensively. “Without any foreseeable future. Will it be enough to do audits, and run elections. So there’s a the $100,000 once again. money, you don’t have much muscle—this everything we want done on the Key whole bunch of things that are going to That suggests that the newly elected will give them the muscle to finance their Peninsula? No. Will it ever be enough? No. cost money.” board would likely exercise its authority to dreams… and will peel off the reliance on Will it be adequate? Yes. I think we’ll have There are a variety of variables in any raise taxes in order to make the needed Pierce County and become independent,” a solvent district. Could it be abused? Yes. anticipated scenario—based on whether improvements. If the board authorized the he said. “I have high hopes the (new) park You avoid abuse by careful selection of rep- the new commissioners will vote them- full 25-cents currently available to them, district commissioners will fairly represent resentatives….I think this community will selves a salary, whether they will accept to the district would bring in $299,585 (based the community.” In March, the Pierce see the benefits and recognize the risks, take over existing county-owned KP parks on 2004 data) in additional revenue. That County Council approved a resolution to and they will vote for it.” (Purdy Spit and the Herron Point boat would be good news for the parks and the call for an election on the proposed MPD, Based on the crowded committee meet- launch), and whether they will propose to citizens who use them. However, the bad effectively making the election official. ings so far and the outpouring of support, hire additional staff such as a professional news is that under the terms of this hypo- Tacoma’s Olson, who works with MPD the community indeed sees the benefit. park manager that had been widely advo- thetical example, a family with a house val- And all that’s needed is for a simple major- cated last year by some KPPRD commis- ued at $200,000 would see their property ity of those who vote on May 18 to say yes. sioners. And the Purdy Spit Park, though it taxes increase by $50 per year. A figure that Key Pen News Forum But even more important on whether doesn’t cost much to maintain currently, is more than twice the 10 cents per 1,000, The Key Peninsula News, working or not the community votes is what could incur big expenses down the road or $20 per year (on a $200,000 home) that directly with Councilman Terry Lee and comes next—should the metro district should the Old Wauna post office building voters rejected last fall. the Pierce County Council, plans to co- be created, the only way for it to be suc- be restored or even demolished. Olson said this about oversight: “It’s just host a candidate’s forum at the Civic cessful is through continued public Although the MPD doesn’t have to take the same as the county, city, or a fire dis- Center tentatively scheduled for May 11 scrutiny and participation. It would be up over county-owned parks on the Peninsula, trict. The state auditor comes in and at 6:30 p.m. Details are being worked to the citizens to elect a well-rounded, the county’s expectation is that it will— audits the entity. So if things were really out and will be published in the May well-qualified board that is committed to because the money that the county would out of hand, the state would eventually issue. The public will be invited to partic- represent all interests and groups—and receive would now be channeled out of its come in, but if voters don’t like what’s ipate and to ask MPD board candidates up to these same citizens to make sure own income and into the KP district. “The going on then it’s up to them to bring questions. Filing period estimated to be the elected representatives deliver on money would normally go to Pierce new people in.” April 5-9; call the county at 798-7427. their promises. 24 Key Peninsula News April 2004 Arts & Recreation 25 ‘Work’ and fun, all in the same day

About five dozen Key Peninsula Middle School stu- dents, joined by their art teacher Janet Buday and several adults, visit- Photo by Hugh McMillan ed the Tacoma Mark Runyan on keyboard,Tom Hume on stringed bass, Ed Seymour with woodwinds, Museum of Glass in and vocalist Lorraine Hart made the Civic Center come alive with their jazz music at the March.The trip was Spring Fling. fun—but work too. Students had to relate their obser- Arts group dazzles at Spring Fling vations during the trip to a variety of By Hugh McMillan sumi painting, oil painting and more. subjects they had KP News Scholarships are given to those in studied in class.The need. The group offers monthly life school bus trip was The Whitmore room at the Key drawing, acoustic jam sessions, and a funded by a dona- Peninsula Civic Center glittered with writers group; holds a yearly artists’ swap tion of $350 from fine art at the second annual Two Waters meet and sponsors exhibition and sales local resident Arts Alliance’ Spring Fling in March. It opportunities for local artists, as well as Barbara Shoos. was a class event with appropriately sub- free public events like a mask-making Photo by Hugh dued lighting, impressive displays of workshop for children and adults, and McMillan water colors and silk painting by Bev hands-on art activities at the annual Key Pedersen, plein air painting by Kurt Peninsula Fair. Solmssen, jewelry by Janet Buday, fired TWAA President Kathy Bauer says, glass art by Brynn Rydel, photography by “Art is fun! It feeds the soul and makes Margo MacDonald, gourd art by Kristen life interesting.” She encourages anyone Bottiger and Nancy Howard, sculpting interested in becoming a part of this by Tip Toland, and a plethora of other exciting group to contact her at 884- exquisite offerings by serious creators of 9172, Lois Ashley at 884-4253 or write to fine art. All this and tastefully prepared P.O. BOX 868, Vaughn, WA 98394, or canopies to the accompaniment of sub- email [email protected]. See tle soft jazz and blues by Mark Runyan more online at twowaters.org. on keyboard, Tom Hume, stringed bass, Ed Seymour, woodwinds, and the top notch vocals of Lorraine Hart made for an evening you should not have missed. Two Waters, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, has sponsored classes and events to appeal to all ages: the Tacoma Youth Symphony concert series at Evergreen and Minter Elementary schools serving over 1,000 children; Artists in Schools, a collaborative pro- gram with the Peninsula School District bringing artists into local classrooms; and various classes including pottery, drumming, felting, Chinese brush paint- ing, beginning and intermediate draw- ing, tapestry, photography, sculpting, 26 Arts & Recreation Key Peninsula News May Day Dance coming soon The Civic Center will be hosting a May Day Dance on May 1, with Casanova return- ‘Guys ing for another round of variety dance music. Casanova, James Blade and Diane Powell, are often featured at resorts, hotels and dance clubs. A true variety dance act, Casanova moves easily between swing, classic rock, country line dance, Latin, and Motown, disco, all with irrepressible dance beats (including authentic ballroom styles) and world-class vocals presented with great stage presence. The band’s playlist includes more than 300 songs that pay tribute to Dolls’ Frank Sinatra, Elvis Presley, Patsy Cline, Glenn Miller, Louis Armstrong, Santana, Shania Twain, Jerry Lee Lewis, Alan Jackson, Janet Jackson, The Blues Brothers, Bruce Springsteen and many others. The dance will start at 8 p.m, with the traditional half-hour, free dance lessons by InStep’s Doug Henry at 7:30 p.m. Tickets are $10 per person, and proceeds benefit the Civic Center. For information, call 884-3456. LIC features Contra Dance

Special to KP News with other dancers in a way somewhat similar to old-time square dancing. The Contra Dance, a form of American folk dancers form a set of two parallel lines dancing for people of all ages, will be the length of the hall. Each dance con- introduced to the Peninsula the first sists of a sequence of moves that ends April weekend, Saturday, April 3, at the with the couples having progressed up or Longbranch Improvement Club. Tricia down the set. Thompson has organized the evening The caller usually teaches each dance event and hired the “Home Brew” band before it begins and leads the dancers in to introduce the community to this lively, the steps until they become familiar with old-time style of dance. them. The most common type of move- Everyone is welcome, from singles and ment, a simple, smooth walking step, is couples to children. Doors will open at easy to manage for all ages. Women may 7:30 for the workshop that is customary dance with women, children with adults at the beginning of Contra Dances, with or with children, men with men, all in the dance following from 8 p.m. to 11 any possible combination and in chang- p.m. ing pairs. It has been said that this is a Since all the dances are taught by the form of dance where by the end of the Photos by Hugh McMillan caller in the workshop and before each evening you may have danced with The Peninsula High School drama class during a dress rehearsal of “Guys and dance, no experience is needed. The almost everyone present. The music is Dolls,” a March 26-27 and April 2-3 production involving about 50 performers. caller for the dances, Matt Temmel, is usually reels or jigs. The American classic, first performed on Broadway in the 1950s, was staged at PHS helping plan the fun evening. Originating as far back as the 17th cen- in the Milt Boyd Auditorium. Performing arts supervisor and drama teacher Nancy Admission will be $7 at the door for the tury in England and called “country Wilkinson managed the production, which included dance and songs like “Luck be a alcohol-free, smoke-free evening. The dancing,” it became popular in France Lady Tonight,” “Guys and Dolls,” and “I’ll Know.” band is a six-piece group with fiddles, where it was named “contredans.” It also banjo, guitar, mandolin and bass. The became very popular in North America. people organizing the dance think the From the French came the name we have historic building “with its wonderful today, Contra Dance. There are groups of ambience is a great venue for music and enthusiastic dancers organized in many dance.” The proceeds from the event places in the United States and Canada, after expenses will go to the Longbranch for example the Hamilton County Improvement Club on Key Peninsula Dancers in Ontario, Canada, and groups Highway South for the benefit of the in California. To find more about the building. dance form and events across the coun- Many people ask, “What is Contra try, see www.contradancelinks.com. Dance?” The closest comparison is In the South Sound area there are con- square dancing. Following the caller, the tra dances in Tacoma, Port Orchard, dancer and partner dance a series of fig- Olympia, and Silverdale. The great thing ures, or moves, with each other and with about Contra Dance is that everyone, another couple for a short time. Then regardless of age, can have a wonderful they go on to repeat the same figures time. April 2004 27 28 Key Peninsula News Local Cootiettes host Tacoma convention

By Colleen Slater Left to right, Ramona Usually, members from both groups go KP News Skjonsberg, Pearl each month. Roberts, Hazel Fenton, Members buy annual bars recognizing “When the men returned from World and Daisy Mae Harfst their service. The $5 cost is mostly con- War I, they had ‘cooties,’” explained Key in back row; and tributed to national scholarships for nurs- Peninsula resident Helen Wolniewicz Gilberta Manwell and es who have begun their training and regarding the beginning of the organiza- Florence Bjornsrud in need financial assistance. tion called Cootiettes. It began in the front row, some of The 2004 state convention, to be held California when local women went to vet- the original local in Tacoma at the end of April, is hosted erans’ hospitals and nursing homes, held Cootiettes. this year by the PennAnts. Members have sing-alongs, took fruit to military hospi- been making ditty bags, favors, and name tals, and treats to the veterans’ homes. ribbons for visiting Cootiettes. They will Many of the original groups have dis- decorate the tables in red, white and banded, although there is still a national blue. organization, called the Supreme, and The women wear white pants and state ones called Grand. blouses, with a red vest. Their “mascot,” Sharon Rikansrud, originally with the Photo courtesy of Carmen the “Cootie,” closely resembles a ladybug, Vaughn PennAnts, joined with her moth- Fenton and some members collect assorted sizes er, Darlene Kaelin, who served as both and kinds of them. local and state president at one time. the baby group,” said the only remaining Lenore Jameson is the current presi- These local women have a fine record On the Peninsula there are two groups, charter member, Ronnie Andrews. dent of the PennAnts, and Linda of service to not only veterans, but to the PennAnts, No. 609, and the Hazel Fenton organized the Vaughn Ramsdell leads the Holliettes. others in need. They enjoy good times Holliettes, No. 670, of Home. The group group in 1956 and led it for several years. The two Peninsula groups alternate together, and although they are willing in Gig Harbor is named Seagulls. Evie Stinson noted that when she joined months to take dessert to Retsil to laugh about their name, they are The Holliettes, started in 1986, was the in 1960, nine women became members at Veterans’ Home, where they visit, play proud members of a worthy organiza- last one formed in the country. “We’re the same time. bingo, then serve coffee and dessert. tion. April 2004 29 Classifieds APPLEBY PLUMBING & DRAIN Lost Cat off Wright-Bliss Rd. Help Wanted - part time Service, Repairs, and Remodels, Long haired, orange, neutered male. Need experienced Medical Assistant for Hot Water Tanks $100 reward. Call 253-884-7898. busy, rural medical practice. Send resume 253-884-9827 to: Carla, P O Box 129, Vaughn WA 98394. WANTED: Part-time grounds keeper for HOME FEED & GROCERY Taylor Bay Beach Club, Inc. Will involve Grant Writer Needed The Key Peninsula 1809 KPN, Home. 884-2321 mowing, beach cleaning and park area main- Fair Association is in need of someone to Open 8 AM - 10 PM tenance. Some equipment will be needed. write grant requests or assist in writing Holidays 10 AM - 6 PM This will be a seasonal and negotiated posi- grant requests. This is primarily a volunteer tion with the board. The board will entertain position, but compensation may be negoti- WATKINS PRODUCTS are available, call proposals and a final decision will be made ated. If interested contact Fred Ramsdell at Marvin and Myrtle Keizur at at the Saturday, April 17 meeting. Please 884-4834. 884-3566. VISA/MC contact either Ken Brown (884-4228) or Don Tjossem (884-2581) for details. To place a classified ad call Karen at 858-8623.

MAKE MORE MONEY ADVERTISE YOUR BUSINESS HERE LOGO BUSINESS NAME ADDRESS PHONE 30 Key Peninsula News Key Peninsula Livable Community Fair coming May 8 Writers wanted! The Key Peninsula Livable Community fire truck, sheriff’s deputies and a patrol Pierce Transit, Ravensara Inc., and Fair is back this year with more partici- vehicle, canine demonstrations, flying Banner Expression. More than 45 organ- pants and more entertainment. disc dogs demonstration, reptiles, craft izations and agencies will share resources Aspiring journalists, writers at Last year’s hit performers, Rhythm-n- activities, a fish pond and a historical dis- that are available for Key Pen residents, heart and experienced Shoes Cloggers, will return along with the play. as well as information on how to become professionals interested in Key Peninsula Middle School Jazz Band, With the theme of “Showcasing people, involved in the local community, news, volunteering for the local paper the Evergreen Elementary Blues Kids, agencies and organizations making the events, and other opportunities. are invited to join the Key Quartet Musette with Lorraine Hart and Key Peninsula more livable,” the May 8 The event will be open from 10 a.m. to Peninsula News team. Razzmatazz (Peninsula High School’s event is organized by Safe Streets and the 3 p.m. The address is 17010 South Help us deliver the news! vocal ensemble). Special attractions will Key Peninsula Civic Center Association Vaughn Road. Call 884-4699 for details or email include Rhubarb the Reindeer (Tacoma with the help of other sponsors, such as For details, call the Civic Center at 884- Rainiers’ Mascot), local firefighters with a Pierce County, St. Joseph Medical Center, 3456. [email protected]

MAKE MORE MONEY ADVERTISE YOUR BUSINESS HERE LOGO BUSINESS NAME ADDRESS PHONE April 2004 Religion 31

and devotional mate- special time of song, prayer, and praise Easter services rial that focus medi- in The Gathering will be offered at 10 tation on each step a.m. Lakebay Community Church of his journey to the Lakebay Community Church wel- cross. Historic Vaughn Bay Church comes all community members to sever- Easter Sunday, al Holy Week Services. April 11, there will A Sunrise Service is scheduled at the The Palm Sunday Worship Service, be two worship cele- Vaughn Cemetery on Easter Sunday at April 4, begins at 10:30 a.m. with a chil- brations. Sunrise 7:30 a.m., with hymn singing and scrip- dren’s procession. The church will look Service begins at ture reading included. A breakfast will at historical Jewish roots as they relate 7:30 a.m. at Penrose follow the service and precede the regu- to Jesus, in the Maundy Thursday Seder Point State Park. lar worship service at 10:30 a.m. Service with Communion on April 8, Meet on the beach at The congregation meets every Sunday 6:30 p.m. in the church Fellowship Hall. the day/picnic area. The church pays morning in the VFW room at the Key For the Good Friday Prayer Vigil on the parking fee for everyone attending Peninsula Civic Center at Vaughn. On April 9, the church is open for private this service. In case of rain, the service April 4 only, the regular service will devotion from 7 a.m. until 7 p.m., and will be held at the church. begin at 10:00 a.m. All are welcome to residents are invited to come to reflect The regular worship service meets at come and worship. For more informa- on the passion of Christ, with stations the church at 10:30 a.m. As always, a tion, call 884-9303 or 884-5403. 32 Key Peninsula News Out & About

Corky and Cheri’ Stebbins are singing at the Christian Open Mic their church, Key Peninsula 7th Day Adventists, has been hosting every Saturday evening at the Civic Center. The Open Mic ended in March but Photo by Irene Torres the couple hopes to The site of a new development by Cedarland NW near Palmer Lake was quiet at dusk on resume it at the a March day—but just minutes before, workers were busy moving earth and getting the end of summer. area ready for new homes. Photo by Rodika Tollefson

Left, Artist Tip Toland’s installation was among several well-received displays at the Two Waters’ Arts Alliance Spring Fling. Photo by Hugh McMillan Right, Before the Citizen of the Year nominees were honored at the banquet sponsored by Photo by Hugh McMillan the Lions Club, there was lots of mingling in the crowd—including, pictured here, Fire Longbranch’s Dorothy Rome cuddles the big bear won in the Evergreen Elementary District Chief Eric Livingood Nelsen with state Rep. Pat Lantz. Photo by Rodika Tollefson PTA’s raffle by her non-present friend Dolores Argabrite.