K EY P ENINSULA Non-Profit Org. U.S. Postage Paid Vaughn, WA 98394 Permit No. 2 BOX HOLDER ▼ A big happy Time for Romance, family, SEE SPECIAL SECTION INSIDE NEWSThe voice of the Key Peninsula SEE PAGE 27 www.keypennews.com Vol. 35 Issue 2 • Circulation 8,400 INSIDE Sen. Derek Kilmer goes to Olympia February 2007 By William C. Dietz, KP News The win was part of what pundits called impose tougher penalties on sex a “Democratic sweep,” as Democrats offenders. When the state Legislature reconvened expanded their majority in Olympia, and However, while it’s likely that issues on Jan. 8, the 26th Legislative District’s Kilmer defeated his Republican rival Jim were critical to the way the race turned Derek Kilmer reported for duty. Not to Hines by an overwhelming margin. An out, so was the amount of money that the House of Representatives, where he outcome that would seem to suggest that each candidate had to spend. Kilmer, served one term, but to the Senate, voters preferred Kilmer’s focus on issues who was on the receiving end of approxi- where Democrat Kilmer filled the slot like economic development, small busi- mately 1,800 donations, raised upwards

vacated by Republican Bob Oke when he ness, healthcare and education to Hines’

▼ ▼ chose to retire. promises to limit tax increases, and (See KILMER, Page 24) Healing powers, page 28 Ice canoeing on Vaughn Bay Aquaculture ▼ Laughter at concerns reach KPMS, page 15 legislative level

Editor’s note: This article is part of a series examining issues regarding geoduck farming. See related article on page 33. To read previous articles in the series, visit www.keypennews.com. News Hospital design ...... 6 By Chris Fitzgerald, KP News FD-16 statistics...... 8 Toll recommendations ...... 9 The battle for acceptable compromise Unsung hero ...... 13 between the commercial geoduck Moreland’s Auto sold...... 20 industry and environmental groups began on a small, local scale last spring. From pioneer stock ...... 29 Today, less than a year later, controversy Local artists at TCC ...... 30 over growing methods, and lack of Volunteer Spotlight ...... 19 adequate scientific study to provide a Obituaries ...... 31 solid ecological footing for this relatively Out & About ...... 36 Photo courtesy Judy Mills new aquaculture has reached beyond “Panes of ice” on the Mills’ beach on Vaughn Bay. interim regulations sought by Pierce County. Sections By Colleen Slater, KP News red canoe, and found the ice to be Rep. Pat Lantz of the 26th Legislative about a quarter-inch thick. District introduced House Bill 1547, Peninsula Views . . . . . 4 Mackenzie and Kelson Mills, 8 and They pushed through the icy “Examining Geoduck Aquaculture Schools ...... 10 10 respectively, experienced a unique covering, and the noise sounded “like Techniques and Practices,” on Jan. 19. It Community Works . . .18 adventure with their parents on Jan. at the North Pole,” Kelson said. “We proposes to amend existing shellfish 12, the second day of “a sheet of ice” had to yell to be able to talk,” he said. regulations in Puget Sound (RCW Business ...... 20 on Vaughn Bay. “It sounded like metal grinding 79.135.110), calling for a minimum of Politics ...... 23 Dad Matthew Mills suggested the against metal,” Mackenzie added. eight specific studies through the sea People & Lifestyles . . .25 outing, and with the kids jumping up “When we paddled, the waves went grant program at the University of Arts & Recreation . . . .30 and down with excitement, mom Lisa (See ICE, Page 34) joined in. They paddled out in their (See GEODUCK, Page 32) 2 www.keypennews.com • Key Peninsula News Rescue unit fully equipped

By Hugh McMillan, KP News tripod to lift patients and objects from confined spaces.” The Key Peninsula Fire Department FD-16 Capt. Hal’ Wolverton said, “At recently acquired new “Res-Q-Jacks,” emergency accident scenes, we often which, according to Division Chief find vehicles that are partially over- Chuck West, is the last addition needed turned or perilously canted off road- to consider “the new rescue vehicle ways, which poses problems, endan- complete and equipped to handle most gering firefighters’ safety in the process all emergencies.” of rescuing entrapped persons. One of Purchased in 2005, the rescue unit the most dangerous such positions is carries the “Jaws of Life,” which are when a vehicle is on its side. The poten- preplumbed and ready to operate tial for injury to extrication teams is through an onboard “Power Take Off” increased due to the unstable nature of (PTO) generator. It also carries a the vehicle and terrain.” breathing-air refill station capable of The “Res-Q-Jack” is a multipurpose refilling “Self Contained Breathing vehicle stabilization tool that can be Apparatus” (SCBA) for prolonged quickly deployed to add stability to an Photo by Hugh McMillan emergency operations, which means unstable situation. “The tool allows us Key Peninsula firefighter/EMT Zach Johnson explains the use of the department’s newly personnel do not need to return to the to provide medical attention to patient acquired Res-Q-Jacks at a recent training session. fire station for refills. The unit also needs much more rapidly and with carries equipment for high angle and more safety,” he said. command vehicle and are in the process water tender. The proposed 2,500- confined space rescue. The department first purchased four of installing radios and emergency gallon tender will replace one of an “To fully outfit the rig for the tough new fire engines and the equipment to lighting,” West said. “The new aging fleet of water tenders purchased job ahead, the new “Res-Q-Jack” can be outfit them as a result of the fire truck command unit should be ready in early in the 1980s, West said. used to stabilize and lift large objects, levy’s passage three years ago, followed 2007.” The district hopes to have the new such as motor vehicles, on most surfaces by the rescue unit and miscellaneous The last of the money made available water tender in operation in the begin- and grades,” West said. “It is quite versa- equipment. by the levy, which will expire in 2007, ning of 2008, when the last of the levy tile and can also be configured as a “We recently purchased a new will be used to purchase a much-needed money is collected.

enforcement officer for Pierce County. KPMPD recruiting to general election, held in November The withdrawal ends a long-running fill vacancy 2007. BRIEFS dispute between Pierce County’s The position is open to all residents of news Department of Planning and Land The Key Peninsula Metro Park the Key Peninsula. Interested individ- Services, and Hostetler (as first reported District is seeking candidates to fill a uals may submit a resume and cover Brookside restaurant sold in KP News in September 2005). The board seat vacated by Paula DeMoss, letter to KPMPD, Position #3, P.O. Box county maintained that Hostetler lacked who resigned in December. The park 70, Lakebay WA 98349. For information, The New Brookside Restaurant was the permits necessary to operate herring district will accept resumes until Feb. 7, email [email protected], bought in January by Steve Skibbs, the pens that have since been dismantled, at 5 p.m. Commissioners will interview or call 884-9240. owner of two real estate offices in the while the marina operator claimed to candidates on Feb. 12, during a study Commissioners meet every second area. He is joint owner of the Key have legal nonconforming rights, which, session scheduled for 6:30 p.m., and Monday of the month at 7:30 p.m., with Center Windermere with Joyce Tovey, had they been declared valid, would appoint an individual during the a study session preceding the meeting at who owns the building itself. Tovey have enabled the herring pen operation regular scheduled meeting that will 6:30 p.m. when necessary, at the declined to comment. Agents at the Key to continue, over objections from some follow at 7:30 p.m. The appointed Volunteer Park annex. The meetings Center real estate office could not of the local residents. commissioner will serve until the next are open to the public. confirm rumors the Brookside would be turned into a Windermere office. Skibbs declined to return calls, despite several To subscribe, please write, Executive editor: Rodika Tollefson Production: September Hyde, attempts to reach him for comment. K EY P ENINSULA call or fax: Assistant editor: Chris Fitzgerald Windelena Lindsay According to his agent, Allison Skibbs, Key Peninsula News Ad sales: Karen Hale, Charleen Day Distribution: Phil Bauer 17010 S. Vaughn Rd. Staff writers and contributors: Web master: Nancy Dardarian the building’s intended use is “several Linda Anderson, William C. Dietz, P.O. Box 3, Vaughn, WA 98394 Hugh McMillan, Kristen Pierce, Unsolicited submissions deadline including months out.” Phone (253) 884-4699 press releases: 17th of each month Colleen Slater, Frank Slater, Irene www.keypennews.com NEWS Fax: (253) 884-4053 Torres, Mindi LaRose, Connie Renz, Herring pens appeal Email [email protected] Kristie Byrd Key Peninsula News is published monthly by the Key Peninsula Civic Center Association at the Key Peninsula Civic Center in Vaughn, Washington. Copyright 2007 with all rights reserved. Reproduction of editorial or graphic withdrawn 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. Derwin Hostetler, who has operated 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 herring pens in Mayo Cove, withdrew his 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. appeal to the state Supreme Court, 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 immedi- ately adjacent areas within Fire District 16. following a series of legal decisions and 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 appeals. “As things stand now, the whole 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. matter is closed,” said Mark Luppino, code Box 3, Vaughn, WA 98394, or email to [email protected] February 2007 • www.keypennews.com 3 Citizen of Year Coast Guard buoy to help with patrols deadline extended By Chris Fitzgerald, KP News Thanks to a parade of windstorms, power outages, snow storms, etc. the During the middle of last December, a Key Peninsula Lions Club, sponsors of U.S. Coast Guard mooring buoy was the annual Citizen of the Year banquet, installed in Filucy Bay. According to Ltd. has extended the nomination deadline Fred Seaton of the U.S. Coast Guard’s to Feb. 6. Nominees should either live, 13th District headquarters in Seattle, the work, or own property on the Key buoy was placed to provide a sheltered Peninsula. Nominators should provide layover for cutters patrolling Puget the name, telephone number, mailing Sound waters. address, and a brief statement Petty Officer Brian Day, a member of describing the volunteer activity or the USCG cutter “Henry Blake,” the activities of the nominee whether for a vessel that placed the buoy, said it is the single accomplishment or for most-southern mooring tie-off for vessels prolonged contributions to the welfare making the long trip from northern of the KP community. waters down to Olympia. Filucy Bay was The event will take place on March 10, chosen specifically because it is a at the KP Civic Center in Vaughn. protected body of water, and when used Photo courtesy Robin Gould Keynote speaker will be Peninsula by a Coast Guard vessel, will make it The U.S. Coast Guard buoy in Filucy Bay is one of nine in the Puget Sound region. School District Superintendent Terry possible for the crew to rest, and resume Bouck. Dinner will be prepared by patrols, maintenance of public aids-to- ment operations, although they both provide more staying power than an Blondie’s restaurant. navigation buoys and markers, or search also stressed its primary purpose is anchor for either the 110-foot, 16 crew Nomination letters should be sent to: and rescue operations on a following simply to provide ease of operation for member cutters, or the smaller 87-foot, KP Citizens of the Year 2006, P.O. Box day without having to return to their both vessel and crew. 10-crew member vessels patrolling 63, Vaughn, WA 98394, or email to Pat port of origin first. In addition to this one, eight other inland waters. Seaton said the buoy is Medveckus at Patricia.Medveckus@Fer- Seaton and Day confirmed the buoy USCG mooring buoys are currently clearly marked “USCG” and is not a tie- guson.com, or to Hugh McMillan at could be used as a tie-up for homeland established in Puget Sound (including off for public vessels of any kind, at any [email protected]. For security purposes, or during law enforce- two installed after Sept. 11, 2001), and time. more information, call 884-3319. 4 Peninsula Views www.keypennews.com • Key Peninsula News EDITORIAL What did you learn in the windstorm? Mind you, this was an we have way less wood than we thought. Survey to help with park inconvenience, not a disaster. We wheeled garbage cans full up to the POINTPOINT closest door. district’s growing pains What if it had been a disaster? OF If you don’t have a wood stove, you can In the nearly three years since its radiate heat into a room by inverting a inception, the Key Peninsula By Jo Anne Gray, PEP-C VIEW clay flowerpot over whatever you are Metropolitan Parks District has faced Special to KP News cooking on (with ventilation). criticism for slow progress with regard to it. Find out who and what the plan is. We were pretty comfortable heat, light park improvements, projects, and opera- After the December storm, I read that Those of you who had no phones, did and cooking-wise but needed to find a tions. Yet behind the scenes, the park stores ran out of things and restaurants you have a family plan in place? Did your solution for refrigeration. Nice that it was district has been taking steps toward an ran out of food. Motels were full and cell phones work? Consider renewing winter and cold outside, but if we hadn’t improved management system. restaurants in operation were swamped. your family communication plan. had a place to move our frozen food, we The first step was to hire a professional You can’t count on supplies being there. Local information in emergency is from would have lost it. Keeping food is a director. A great deal of credit goes to Gas ran out. Good reason to drive on KGHP FM at 89.3, 89.9 or 104.5. problem. Even when you plan to use the the dedicated community members who the top half of your tank. What if roads Our neighborhood pretty well helped refrigerator stuff first and don’t open the managed the parks as volunteers for were such that new supplies could not be each other and guys with chainsaws freezer door, things thaw after a while. many years — however, it is tough to delivered or you could not get out? cleared the roads. We must be respon- One resident shared that she froze pans grow an organization solely with volun- When your water supply depends on sible for ourselves. of water outside and put them in the “ice teer labor. Once the district became power, what did you do? The fire districts I learned that for wandering and box.” better organized, and commissioners offered free water but people managed to working with things, a small flashlight OK, now, y’all get back out there and were able to turn the day to day opera- fill up their containers where there was hanging from my neck by an elastic cord replace the supplies you used up and the tions over to staff, more steps followed. water. This time. Note that PEP-C works well. I can see where I’m going and ones you didn’t have. Write to PEP-C and In the last two years, KPMPD added (Peninsula Emergency Preparedness what I’m doing without holding it. A tell us how you managed and what you new recreational programs, both for Committee) sells used, food-grade, 55- headlamp also works well. I learned that, will do differently next time. Check the youth and adults. Much-needed repairs gallon drums for emergency water storage while batteries keep for seven years in a PEP-C Website (www.pep-c.org) for and deserved maintenance were for $25 (call 265-8510). cool, dry place, the air in my garage is too replies and ideas. addressed at Volunteer Park, and One person used the RV for water, but damp. A whole package of batteries according to Director Scott Gallacher, even figuring five gallons per person per rusted. I will have to keep them in plastic Jo Anne Gray is a Gig Harbor resident and many of those projects are completed. day, it was too little. Another person said bags. coordinator for PEP-C. Preparedness is an act of Now, with some of the immediate their well manager put a generator on I learned that a double boiler or pie love. Prepare because you care. PEP-C may be priorities addressed, the park district is their system. Since all our water on the pan over water works well for not burning contacted at P.O. Box 1217, Gig Harbor WA moving toward the next step. In order to peninsula comes from wells, somebody things and an inverted one keeps them 98335, by phone at 253-265-8510 or via email grow, and decide on priorities, the somewhere is pumping and pressurizing warm (missing the microwave). And that to [email protected]. commissioners request public input on future direction. Do you want to see the Good Samaritan helps 360-acre park acquired, or do you think LETTERS TO a 98-mile round trip. We saw a lot of resources should be used on programs after accident secondary and primary roads in Tacoma instead? Do you want more boat and Lakewood in terrible shape. launches or more playgrounds? Should THE EDITOR Early in the morning on Jan. 20 the During the trip home, when we got off the district acquire new parks, or focus its Article needs additional Whittemore family of Palmer Lake slid at the Purdy exit, the whole situation efforts on improving existing facilities? into serious problems on the unexpected changed. It was almost like a normal And would you support paying for any of credit icy roads. Molly and her daughters went road. The ride became much safer and these efforts with property tax — consid- It was great to see Keith Stiles get at into the ditch and against the hill at the saner, and anxiety level went to normal ering that the KPMPD currently does not least some of the credit he richly Home Port Restaurant. An “angel of commute level. It was just amazing, how collect any, yet it is entitled to do so deserves for the myriad ways he has mercy” stopped to help, put the girls into clean the Key Peninsula Highway was without a public vote. served this community. But many of her her car in a safe location and helped Molly compared to other roads! These and other questions are friends were puzzled that there was no until the emergency vehicles arrived. The Carl Foutz and his crew at the county’s addressed in a survey the commissioners mention of his wife, Lee, who died just family wishes to expresses their deep grati- Public Works Purdy shop did an will use to create a comprehensive plan. about two years ago. It was Lee’s partici- tude to this unknown woman who helped outstanding job. This document will be used as a blue- pation in many organizations on the Key them during this traumatic time. Phillip Ingram print to shape the future of its parks.” Peninsula that helped feed Keith’s Linda Anderson Longbranch The survey, printed in this issue of the delightful column in the KP News and Lakebay KP News, can be dropped off at indicated she was his photographer for any of his Dinner organizers thank locations, or filled out at columns or articles. Lee was a faithful County crew response Civic Center, volunteers www.KeyPeninsulaParks.com. Having a participant at KGHP radio station along gets kudos good park system is a key aspect of a livable with Keith and was his partner or assis- We want to send a note of thanks to the community, impacting everyone, whether tant in many of his projects. She, too, During the January icy roads condi- Key Peninsula Civic Center board for you are enjoying your retirement on the would not easily acknowledge the credit tions, I had to drive to and back from allowing us once again the use of the Civic Key Pen, or raising children here. Don’t she deserves, but she does deserve it. work to Lakewood from 88th Street, Center on Christmas Day to entertain a miss this opportunity to help shape the Mary Krumbein bottom of Longbranch up to Purdy and future. Vaughn around to the VA hospital in Lakewood, (See LETTERS, Page 5)

The opinions expressed on this page are not necessarily those of the KP News. We neither endorse nor oppose issues or proposals discussed on this page and present these views for public information only. February 2007 • www.keypennews.com Peninsula Views 5

The opinions expressed on this page are not necessarily those of the KP News. We neither endorse nor oppose issues or proposals discussed on this page and present these views for public information only. Aquaculture and agriculture: Natural necessities By Rick Sorrels, Special to KP News structure no longer exists. just after Washington attained statehood that is being used in a manner fully consis- Agricultural land and products are bene- were specifically designed to promote and tent with state statutes, goals, directives, When vocal citizen groups push their ficial uses that governments need to protect the commercial shellfish industry. and regulations. elected officials for changes, sometimes preserve. Should any of a large number of Those laws and philosophies are still in State law, as currently written, has little the government loses its proper perspec- potential disasters befall us, locally effect. sympathy for property owners neighboring tive, making decisions that it lives to regret. produced food products will become a Commercial food production is often aquacultural enterprises. Geoduck beds Vancouver B.C., which is laid out similar godsend. Production and distribution of times not very attractive to subdivision resi- are treated like plowed fields with water on to the Seattle/Tacoma corridor, boxed in excess food products provide employment dents adjoining farmlands. Odors come top. Ecological concerns for protected by mountains and the sea, had well estab- opportunities and tax revenue, help our from manure, fertilizers, and pesticides. species have developed over the past lished, thriving industries and commercial “balance of trade” and support govern- Vermin and other pests love to cavort and couple decades that are not adequately activities supporting a large region. mental goals and programs. The United feed amongst the crops. Tractors, cultiva- addressed by existing state regulations Citizens got tired of the noise, smell, States, with Washington state a major tors, and harvesters all make noise. Freshly governing geoduck harvesting practices. traffic, and congestion that accompanies contributor, has been long known as the plowed fields just don’t look as pleasant as Changes need to be addressed in the state these businesses, and pushed for change “breadbasket of the world.” We not only a natural forest. Legislators pursuing the Legislature. Rep. Pat Lantz is pursuing emphasizing residences and parks. feed ourselves, but also the hungry every- popular vote sometimes listen too closely research funds to investigate “best science” Subsequent changes resulted in loss of where. Agriculture needs to be a protected to complaining neighbors while failing to to identify needed changes. Sen. Derek jobs, loss of products available for resource. recognize the state mandate to support Kilmer is involved on the Senate side. consumption, and a huge loss in tax Washington law requires that agriculture and protect our agricultural industry. Most Washington counties do not have a revenue. They still haven’t fully recovered be protected and promoted. Agriculture Currently, on the peninsulas, some shoreline or any geoduck industry. Let’s from earlier bad choices. takes many forms: apples on trees, berries shoreline residents have become quite hope that the legislators recognize that Similarities exist with Tacoma and Gig on bushes, wheat in open fields, corn in vocal about geoduck harvesting. They agriculture (which includes aquaculture) Harbor. Downtown Tacoma had a very plowed fields, cranberries in bogs, onions complain of noise, the unattractiveness of is of paramount importance for the entire pronounced industrial base, which is now below ground, etc. Aquaculture fish farms, somebody else’s private property, “debris” state. Research results should stimulate being replaced with condos, museums, clams, oysters, and many others is consid- left on somebody else’s private property, discussion and changes to our state’s basic colleges, promenades and other nontax ered to be “a branch of the agricultural and interference with their ability to tres- fundamental philosophy regarding agri- generating activities. Gig Harbor had a industry,” with all of the securities and pass upon somebody else’s property. These culture and its important stepchild, aqua- thriving fishing fleet, which is gradually protections provided thereto (RCW neighbors fail to recognize they are culture. disappearing because the necessary infra- 15.85.010). Some of the oldest laws passed dealing with “somebody else’s property” Rick Sorrels lives in Glen Cove. (From LETTERS, Page 4) KPMPD highlights accomplishments crowd of senior citizens with a party and dinner. The whole experience of the occa- By Scott Gallacher, executive director • Coordinated a variety of athletic • Hired executive director in March sion takes on a special meaning when you programs and camps including indoor • Purchased Kubota Utility Vehicle see the faces of the guests light up with The Key Peninsula Metro Park District soccer skill clinics, cheer camp, basket- ($12,500) sincere appreciation. So many of our was busy over the two years. The ball camp, Skyhawks Sports soccer and • Purchased Toro Rotary mower guests come to join us year after year and following is a list of some of the 2006 mini-hawk camps, two adult softball from Pierce County surplus ($6,500) look forward to the invitation with great accomplishments: tournaments for 14 teams, adult • Painted concession stand and anticipation. • Completed renovation and summer co-ed softball league for eight Volunteer Park annex buildings We are very grateful to the Civic Center successful operation of concession stand teams, and more • Coordinated well and water system for giving us access to the facility for over at Volunteer Park ($ 30,000) • Coordinated the removal and instal- work ($1,550) 25 years. It would be difficult to pull it all • Renovated three infields at lation of playground equipment and • Purchased infield conditioner mix, together without this great donation from Volunteer Park ($7,000) surfacing as part of senior project with Turface ($7,100) the board. We wanted to attract more resi- • Coordinated the construction of Peninsula High School student ($2,200) • Coordinated with Key Peninsula dents from our immediate community, but retaining wall at Volunteer Park by Key • Coordinated the design, creation Little League for over 150 volunteer the response wasn’t there. Those local Peninsula Lion Club members with an and installation of 18 trail marker signs hours at Volunteer Park people who did join us insisted that they excess of 180 volunteer hours ($5,000) at Rocky Creek as part of Lu Winsor • Coordinated variety of athletic really enjoyed themselves but didn’t • Created conceptual master plan of Grant and Peninsula High School programs including indoor soccer skill understand why there weren’t more local 360 (Horseshoe Lake) property Senior project ($900) clinics, Pepsi Pitch Hit Run contest for faces there. They were glad not to have to ($4,975) • Funded November ‘05 general elec- youth baseball, adult summer co-ed travel a great distance. • Successfully prepared application tion costs for elected officials ($4,000) softball league for eight teams, adult The volunteers who helped us came for Lu Winsor Grant • Purchased office equipment fall co-ed softball league for five teams from far and near. It is great to have all • Coordinated “Parks Appreciation including computer, software, • Purchased variety of light fixtures their able and willing participation. Loyd Day” for Purdy Spit, Rocky Creek, and copy/fax/scanner, and digital camera for Volunteer Park ($1,200) Miller was drafted to be Santa and did an Home Park on which volunteers ($3,000). • Funded September primary elec- outstanding job. We’re hoping to get his donated over 100 hours tion costs for elected officials ($7,400) services for next year, too. The smiles and • Coordinated with Key Peninsula 2005 accomplishments • Coordinated phase 1 of retaining thank you from parting guests make us Little League for over 150 volunteer included: wall project as part of Eagle Scout ready to plan for another Christmas. hours at Volunteer Park project Mike and Joyce Salatino • Coordinated two outdoor movie • Purchased security gates for • Created Web site. Wauna nights Volunteer Park ($5,100) 6 www.keypennews.com • Key Peninsula News Hospital design approved

By KP News staff Harbor’s maritime heritage. The hospital is named after St. Anthony of Padua, the The city of Gig Harbor Design Review patron saint of sailors and fishermen. Board in January recommended the The plans include an outdoor water approval of St. Anthony Hospital, with feature and healing garden, along with a some revisions. A public hearing was cafeteria, a nearby medical office building, scheduled for Jan. 24, with a final decision parking for 700 vehicles, and free wireless by the Gig Harbor hearing examiner Internet access (Wi-Fi). The large expected in February. construction crane has been reserved and Officials with Franciscan Health Systems, orders are being placed with manufac- the developer of the facility, said construc- turers for steel beams that will be used in tion is planned to start as soon as June construction, Franciscan said. 2007. A groundbreaking ceremony is The hospital will include a 24-hour emer- expected in late April or early May. gency department as well as inpatient and “With a planned opening in early 2009, outpatient surgery, diagnostic imaging, the vision for St. Anthony Hospital and its physical, speech and occupational thera- lifesaving medical services is becoming a pies, and a heart catheterization and reality,” said Joe Wilczek, president and vascular unit for heart-attack patients and Illustration courtesy FHS chief executive officer for Franciscan. those suffering life-threatening problems This drawing shows the front of St. Anthony Hospital, which will be located in Gig The 217,000-square-foot hospital will in their veins or arteries. The project is esti- Harbor North.The emergency department entrance is visible to the right.The hospital include design elements inspired by Gig mated to cost $150 million. will be easily accessible from Canterwood Boulevard.

local business owner who was seriously Bridge: the Gig Harbor K EY P ENINSULA injured in a mill saw accident on Dec. 2. and Key peninsulas, BRIEFS At press time, Radcliffe was still in the Fox Island, University news burn care unit at Harborview Medical Place and Fircrest. Center in Seattle. Most recently the NEWS KP News elects new officers “Phil Radcliffe is a consummate volun- council’s vice chair, Lee teer,” Salatino said. “At times, he may be a was first elected to the Wanted: The Key Peninsula News Publishing bit reluctant… but for over 25 years, he has council in 2002 and was LEE Board held officer elections at its regu- never turned me down when a project sworn in for his second News Editor larly scheduled January meeting. The needed his expertise. Whether it was a term on Jan. 8. “We’ve got a busy year Publishing Board is the KP News Civic Center project like the drain field ahead of us and a good budget to guide governing body, comprised of three back in the ’80s, or the major land clearing us, so I look forward to getting started,” Flexible hours, part time representatives from the newspaper’s jobs at Volunteer Park, I could count on he said. volunteer staff, and two representatives Phil to pitch in and do his share.” Bunney, who represents District 1, will Open until filled from the executive committee of the Key The dinner will be held Saturday, Feb. take over as executive pro tem. Peninsula Civic Center Association, 24, from 2 to 6 p.m. at the Key Peninsula which owns the nonprofit newspaper. Civic Center. Admission is $7.50/person Civic Center elects new •Writing/editing experience The board members are as follows: at the door or $7/person prepaid (tickets officers •Newspaper knowledge Irene Torres, president (KP News); available at LuLu’s restaurant and Frank Slater, vice president (KP News); Sunnycrest Nursery). Organizers are The Key Peninsula Civic Center •Key Pen resident Bill Dietz, secretary (KP News); Ed seeking volunteers to help prepare the Association recently elected Ben preferred Taylor, treasurer (KPCCA); and Bruce spaghetti dinner, as well as donations. Thompson as its new Macdonald, member at large (KPCCA). Jerry Miller and the Ruston-a-Way president. Other Macdonald joined the board in January, band, which include three Key Pen resi- KPCCA executive board Send resume and 3 writing replacing Loyd Miller, who was a dents, will volunteer their talents to members include: Loyd publishing board member since 2005. entertain the audience starting at 7 p.m. Miller, first vice presi- samples to: Executive editor Rodika Tollefson Tickets for the concert are $15/person or dent; Bruce Macdonald, Key Peninsula News, serves as an ex-officio, nonvoting board $25/couple, available only at the door. second vice president; member. The Board of Directors acts as For information, call Mike Salatino at Sylvia Haase and PO Box 3, the publisher of the Key Peninsula 851-4556. Kathleen Degginger, THOMPSON Vaughn WA 98394 News, and may be reached by calling secretaries; Ed Taylor, or email 884-4699. Lee elected county chair treasurer; and at-large members Pam Libstaff and Tom Howard. [email protected]. Fundraiser to benefit Pierce County Council members in The KPCCA invites any interested injured resident January elected Councilman Terry Lee to community member to become part of succeed Councilman Shawn Bunney as the board, or to volunteer for one of For a complete job Wauna resident Mike Salatino and his Pierce County Council chair. many Civic Center fundraisers and description, visit friends are planning a benefit spaghetti Lee represents District 7, which events. For information, call the dinner and dance for Phil Radcliffe, a includes both sides of the Narrows nonprofit organization at 884-3456. www.keypennews.com February 2007 • www.keypennews.com 7 SR-302 study on the horizon this summer

By Rick Sorrels, Special to KP News region, spoke at the monthly Key across the (Purdy) spit,” he said. “But Peninsula Business Association meeting More SR-302 meetings studies show that relocating SR-302 Although formal studies on a new held on Jan. 19 at Blondie’s in Key The Key Peninsula-Gig Harbor League north at either Pine Road or Burley- highway through the Key Peninsula will Center. of Women Voters Unit has also been Olalla Road would severely discourage start in a few months, an actual highway “(State Route) 302 will not, cannot meeting with WSDOT as well as county use by Key Peninsula residents, the vast is years away, according to Washington accommodate growth,” he told those in officials regarding State Route 302. majority of which turn south when they State Department of Transportation attendance. “Growth will happen, it The unit is looking into the issue of the reach (State Route) 16. Relocation that engineer Pasco Bakotich. cannot be stopped.” highway traffic flow and congestion, far north would do little to fix the Bakotich, the licensed engineer in He said funds will be available in July including previous studies and potential existing problems.” charge of all pre-construction responsi- “to start the formal studies to deter- solutions. The next Unit meeting is Feb. Maps provided by Bakotich identified bilities for WSDOT road projects in this mine the best location” for a new 8 at 6:30 p.m. at the Gig Harbor options under consideration for the highway. Visitor and Volunteer Center, 3125 relocation of that portion of SR-302 “The environmental document will Judson Street in Gig Harbor (see the located west of 118th Avenue would use take two and a half to three years to Community Works section for more either 144th Street (Powerline Road) complete,” he said. “The environmental details on the meeting). or a continuation of Pine Road (in process will determine the solution.” Kitsap County). “Both options have The starting point for WSDOT will be their own particular problems that will a 1993 feasibility study that identified a tion. be a challenge to overcome,” Bakotich number of options, which ranged from Growth is booming on the Key said. not doing any mitigation to building a Peninsula. We plan for 10 additional “Construction for a new SR-302 is still new highway. trips per day for each new residence many years away. As an interim help, “Something has to be done,” constructed.” design money has already been funded Bakotich said. “SR-302 is a dangerous Bakotich said a new location will be for widening shoulders and adding road. It’s windy, curvy, and not very challenging. “Environmental regu- turn lanes for portions of SR-302 designed for the demands currently lations make it extremely difficult, if between 94th Avenue and the Burley placed upon it. Environmental and cost not impossible to cross the Burley Lagoon,” he said. Design work will be factors make it impossible to upgrade Lagoon at another location, or even to done in 2009, with construction during SR-302 to four lanes at its existing loca- widen the existing road and bridge the summer months of 2012 and 2013. 8 www.keypennews.com • Key Peninsula News FD-16 STATS A mini-van ended up in Glen Cove when the driver became distracted and missed the sharp turn near Camp Seymour on Cramer Road. The two uninjured occupants swam to shore before rescuers arrived.The van sunk and was later removed by the Pierce County Sheriff’s dive team.

Photo by Kristen Pierce

Nov. 29 — Key Peninsula Fire Deptment December total calls: 254 water rescue team responded with the Medical aid: 111 Department of Fish and Wildlife to a report Fires: 25 of a seal that was tangled in a stray fishing Burn complaints: 13 net in Henderson Bay. The net was Vehicle crashes: 18 retrieved and no loss of marine life had Weather related: 73 occurred. Other: 14 Dec. 4 — A head-on collision with Mutual aid from GHFD: 10 injuries was reported on SR-302 at the Purdy Spit. Fire District 5 and 16 units siding. Fire crews responded to 47 weather responded and found the roadway partially related events between the evening of Dec. blocked; however, no injuries were reported 14 and the morning of Dec. 16. by the parties involved. Dec. 17 — The Key Peninsula Fire Dec. 13 — Fire and EMS crews Department responded to a chimney fire in responded to 22 calls for assistance during the Wauna area. The fire had occurred due the windstorm. Most of the calls were as a to a lack of cleaning of the chimney that result of lines down and trees across the had a significant amount of soot buildup. road from the windstorm, and one call involved a barge being pushed into the Dec. 26 — Paramedics responded to a Purdy bridge. Another call involved a tree Palmer Lake residence for a report of a against a house on 137th St NW area; no rash. Medics have responded to repeated one was injured. 9-1-1 calls over several months to the resi- dence; however, the patient refuses to be Dec. 15 — Firefighters remained active transported. throughout the day responding to calls for assistance during the aftermath of the Dec. 31 — Medic crews responded to a storm. Several calls for smoke in resi- 1-year-old girl who accidentally ingested dences with no significant damage reported some Benadryl ointment and baby oil while and at least one call for possible carbon she was playing. Poison control was monoxide exposure. Firefighters responded contacted and confirmed that there was no to one shed fire that was caused by a need for further care; she was left with her generator exhaust too close to the wood parents. February 2007 • www.keypennews.com 9 Citizen committee sets toll recommendations An interview with appropriation, the CAC recommended ground, from toll rates for the Narrows leaving the cash toll at $3 and For more information on the Bridge to larger statewide issues of a $10 Lakebay’s Sonja Morgan discounting the electronic toll collection Tacoma Narrows Bridge and the tolls, million buy-down and future tolling proj- fee to $1. (To read the complete list of visit www.tacomanarrowsbridge.com. ects. I would have liked to see the 15 By Rodika Tollefson, KP News recommendations, as well as Kilmer’s items be filled out more in-depth, letter to Gregoire, visit www.keypen- different issues concerning tolls and however, including more discussion on The Tacoma Narrows Bridge Citizens news.com.) financial scenarios. I feel like we’ve how we arrived at these decisions. I Advisory Committee forwarded its list of According to Janet Matkin, spokes- covered a lot but I also feel we could personally feel as if we were pressed for 15 recommendations regarding the toll woman with the Washington State have met more to discuss issues more in- time, with a Jan. 16 deadline, and I to the Washington Department of Transportation, the trans- depth. In my opinion, we were rushed to consistently encouraged the group to State Transportation portation commissioners agreed in prin- get a recommendation out, but I feel meet more often. Commission in ciple with the recommendations but will we’ve accomplished a lot. KPN: What was the most difficult part January. Comprised of take a closer look at the proposed toll KPN: What kind of issues did you for you? nine citizens amounts. The commission has not set a examine? SM: The most difficult part of the appointed by Gov. timeline on the final decision, but the SM: Some issues we looked at were toll process, for me, was where to start, how Christine Gregoire, WSDOT planned to open its Good to rates, discounts, time of day pricing, per to initiate group dialogue on the difficult the commission has Go! customer service center in the axel charge, building up of reserve issues. This is also the part I like best MORGAN met for the past few spring, at which time it’s expected that funds, capacity of the tolling facility and about being on the committee – times months to discuss the the toll rate should be known. electronic toll collection, user friendli- when we discuss different perspectives toll rates, potential discounts, and other The Citizens Advisory Committee will ness, marketing of the Good to Go! and present creative ideas. I feel very issues. remain in place for the life of the toll, program and early retirement of the strongly about having this be an ongoing The CAC recommended setting the and will meet regularly to evaluate toll bond debt. thorough process where everybody’s initial toll at $3 per vehicle for cash collection/bond payment data. We looked at discounts, and came to voice is heard. payments, and $1.75 for commuters who The Key Peninsula News met with the conclusion that it’s difficult to imple- KPN: What else do you think is impor- pay electronically via the Good to Go! Sonja Morgan, a 27-year-old Lakebay ment a discount when you have elec- tant for the public to know regarding the electronic collection system. The resident who was appointed to the CAC, tronic tolling and cash tolling. We came committee’s decisions? commission recommended no other to ask her about her experience. Born to the realization pretty quickly that in SM: It is important to remember that discounts to any groups, “in part because and raised on the Key Pen, Morgan order for traffic to not get congested, the CAC continues to be in existence as of the difficulty of identifying those returned to live on the Key Peninsula there needs to be a certain percentage of long as there are tolls on the bridge. It is persons within a group and assuring that after a few years away. She currently electronic toll collection, but to have a written into legislation that we must be there was no abuse to the system, in part works for the state House of discount verified, you’d have to go consulted on any proposed changes to because of favoring one worthy group to Representatives Office of Program through the toll booth, and we didn’t tolls. We have requested that the DOT the expense of another worthy group Research in Olympia as a session clerk. want that to become a traffic issue. And provide the CAC with monthly reports and in part because of the administrative Key Peninsula News: Why did you want we didn’t want to favor one group over outlining the actual toll revenue, opera- cost in administering such discounts or to be involved with the tolls committee? another. (Discounts) was a big question tional expenses and traffic flow that exemptions,” according to the recom- Sonja Morgan: I’ve always been inter- — it was a fairness issue, and we were occur once the new bridge is open and mendations. ested in the bridge and wanted to make especially concerned about those who tolls are implemented. We will be Sen. Derek Kilmer led a group of legis- sure the Key Peninsula community was use the bridge frequently. looking at this information, along with lators representing Gig Harbor/Key considered as part of the bridge users, so KPN: What was the most challenging public input, to respond to the function- Peninsula, Tacoma and South Kitsap I applied. I’m the youngest person on part for the group, in your view? ality of Washington state’s only current areas in asking Gregoire to include a $10 the committee. SM: I think it was a great challenge to tolling project. The Citizens Advisory million appropriation in her proposed KPN: How would you describe your be charged with the task of working out Committee can be contacted through budget to “buy down” the tolls for the experience on the CAC? a toll rate that we felt was fair based on email on the DOT Website. Although, at period when the existing bridge is closed SM: I was very happy to be on the projected figures of toll revenue and this point, we do not know if the for retrofitting. In the event of the committee. I think we looked at a lot of concrete figures of bond debts. There Transportation Commission will adopt were a lot of unknowns … (such as) the the recommendations made by the CAC, effect the tolls will have on bridge use… I urge bridge users to review them and and differing opinions on what traffic provide feedback to the committee. flow will look like after the tolls are implemented. KPN: How did you arrive at the final toll figures? SM: We looked at data provided by the CORRECTION Department of Transportation that the consultant calculated, and some members of the committee calculated A story on the Key Center Massage their own numbers as well. We tried co-op in January incorrectly credited different scenarios: $2, $4… massage therapist Christy Campbell KPN: Are you satisfied with the recom- with clinical volunteering in Hon- mendations? duras and midwifery and incorrectly SM: I think that the 15 recommenda- misspelled the name of Timothy Oaks. tions we decided on do cover a lot of We apologize for the errors. 10 Schools www.keypennews.com • Key Peninsula News ‘Green’ playground planned at Vaughn Elementary By Chris Fitzgerald, KP News Elementary parents and the entire More information community will participate, turning a When the Vaughn Elementary School grand playground desire into a delightful PTA board wanted to find a way to get a Inquiries about the playground reality. new playground system installed for the structure or fund can be sent to Self sent out a request for donations to students, Lisa (Dervaes) Mills volunteered [email protected]. 2,100 businesses in the Key Peninsula/Gig to chair the playground committee. Mills Harbor community “on Dec. 14, the day of and her husband, Matthew, were students school and encouraged students to draw the storm,” with scant response. Still, she is at the school in the mid-1970s, and both what they wanted; they talked with kids and determined to find a way to build the had great-great grandparents who settled got teacher input. Then they shopped for entire playground system. With no grant or on the Key Peninsula. The couple’s two a “green” playground that was environ- matching funds, the committee is reliant children are now Vaughn students. mentally-friendly and met state standards upon the goodwill and commitment of the A teacher in the Port Orchard school for wheelchair access. community to help build it. Her donation system, Mills is keenly aware of the differ- “(The new system) is 100 percent U.S. letter read, in part, “A letter of gratitude ences in the playgrounds at Vaughn, and made of recycled steel and structural listing everyone who donated will be sent some of the other schools. “We felt there plastic, and the wood chips to be used are to the Vaughn student body. We want to was a real lack,” she says. “We’re trying also recycled,” Self says. make sure people who donate are recog- hard to get a good playground system in. The playground area will include nized for their generosity and involvement Photo by Mindi LaRose The kids sure deserve it.” benches and tables for socializing, paths, in their community.” Additionally, for Parents Tina Self and Lisa Mills (middle left Joining Mills in this effort is PTA board and places for visitors of all ages to relax several levels of giving (beginning at $100), to right) pose with their children, fifth- Treasurer Tina (Selfors) Self. She was also and enjoy the outdoors. The anticipated a plaque will be engraved with the donor’s grader Kelson Mills (back), fourth-grader a Vaughn Elementary student in the ’70s, a price tag is between $50,000 and $60,000. name and mounted in the general play- Josie Self (front left) and third-grader few years after Mills. Self’s daughter is a As soon as the school district completes ground area. MacKenzie Mills on the same slide they played on as kids at Vaughn Elementary fourth-grader at Vaughn, and her son, a required drainage, playground construc- The new playground may or may not be School.The new playground will be placed Vaughn graduate, is now in sixth grade at tion for Phase I can begin. fully complete before Self’s daughter in the grassy area seen behind the slide, near Key Peninsula Middle School. So far, the committee has raised about leaves the school after fifth grade. “I’ve got the same area where the old school building Mills and Self first set out to discover $28,000. Last May, they held the first a two-year term (as treasurer),” she says, sat. For “old times’ sake,” the kids are what kind of playground the children Vaughn Elementary PTA auction, their “This (playground system) is something wearing shirts from their parents’ era when would choose for themselves. In May 2006, primary fundraiser. They will hold another I’m going to be involved with until it’s the school’s mascot was “The Vaughn they posted big sheets of paper at the one this May, and hope Vaughn completed.” Varmints.” February 2007 • www.keypennews.com 11 12 Schools www.keypennews.com • Key Peninsula News PHS students publish award-winning newspaper By Kristie Byrd, KP News the weekends. The staff of The “Everything you do matters, and you’re Peninsula Outlook The Peninsula Outlook, Peninsula ultimately responsible,” Taylor said about illustrate the High School’s student newspaper, is a the students’ roles. creative chaos that consistent award winner. Most recently, The students have a sense of ownership floats around the the newspaper won its sixth Pacemaker and pride, therefore they are motivated classroom as the award, considered the “Pulitzer Prize of to do a good job. “The class is structured staff works late at student journalism” by the National hierarchically, meaning positions of night to wrap the Scholastic Press Association. power that students have to earn. They paper. Front row, The Outlook is “setting the standards keep each other in line and also make newspaper adviser high,” according to news editor, Taylor sure to show concern for the well-being Derek Smith and Buck. of others,” Smith said. co-editor-in-chief When asked what judges look for in a The administrators are also supportive Cassandra Kapp. newspaper competition, adviser Derek of student journalism, and many parents Co-editor-in-chief Smith said they look for stories that are are willing to help out with time and Caity Carter is in appealing, entertaining, and informative. money, according to Smith. He said that the back row, far The Pacemaker awards are given by the most importantly, The Outlook has left corner, with National Scholastic Press Association, reporters who are willing to work hard, managing editor with judges considering such criteria as write ethically, design artistically, and Patrick Renie to coverage, content, writing and photog- think critically. her right. raphy, design, in-depth reporting and “I’m really lucky and fortunate to be others. able to work with a group of teens who Photo by Mindi LaRose “We have a lot to live up to, but we are are amusing, insightful, quick-witted, for best of show, special edition. include first-class honor rating, and the definitely capable,” Taylor said. “We are savvy, colorful, and every day, I look “It shows that all our hard work has Columbia Scholastic Press Association learning to get things done quicker.” forward to teaching that class and inter- paid off,” co-editor-in-chief Cassandra Gold Crown award, the most prestigious An issue of the paper comes out once acting with them,” Smith said. Kapp said. “We are a serious newspaper honor by the CSPA. every three weeks. The Outlook is a class The newspaper received the new with serious students and we want to and a student-run club. Some staff Pacemaker in November, while also prove it.” Kristie Byrd is a Peninsula High School members aren’t in class but show up on placing ninth for best of show, and third Other awards won by the students freshman. February 2007 • www.keypennews.com Schools 13 Glenda McQueen knows mops, treasures moppets

By Chris Fitzgerald, KP News his parents to pick up his little sister, now a student at Evergreen. “I wish I On the advent of her birthday in 2006, could come back and help you,” he told the head custodian at Evergreen her. Elementary School had literally shared McQueen, whose day at school begins one-half of her life with the Peninsula at 6:30 a.m., does much more than School District. Glenda McQueen has sweep, mop, empty trash cans and clean logged 26 years of bathrooms. She assists with fire and keeping peninsula earthquake drills, monitors the break- schools, from grade fast and lunch lines, and greets the chil- schools to the high dren when they arrive in the morning school, clean and with hugs and smiles. For two years, maintained for McQueen has also been a volunteer students, faculty, staff reading mentor through the and visitors. That Communities in Schools after-school doesn’t mean she program for first and second graders. gets any special perks “Their minds are so open, like little — her office shares Photo by Mindi LaRose sponges, taking in everything,” she says. space with mops, a Glenda McQueen with her student helpers, fourth grader Nicky Ngo (Urfer), and third Her energies and devotion are not lost washer and dryer, a graders Kaila Jacobson and Mary Stevens. on Crisman, who says, “We appreciate computer, and everything she does for us — the way she various cleaning/maintenance related right. “I knew this was home as soon as I years ago, one quiet student asked if he interacts with the children. Glenda is items. came here,” she says. could help her during recess. She didn’t always there for the children.” McQueen is a woman whose 4-foot, 10- McQueen originally wanted to be a see any reason why not, and so When she’s not working, McQueen inch stature does not tower over a child, kindergarten teacher; the career path McQueen’s “Helpers” were created. enjoys gardening, handicrafts, and and she “likes kids smaller than me,” she she follows has given her many opportu- Every Monday morning she posts a sign reading fiction. Still, her career has been says. So when she arrived at Evergreen nities to spend time with children, and on her door, with time slots for four more than just a job. In 1992, she met her Elementary four years ago, it felt just teach them valuable things. About two helpers. Children who have written future husband when she joined the permission from their parents may sign custodial staff of Gig Harbor High School, up for two slots that week. where he is now the head custodian. During their special time with Even on a shopping trip to Target, McQueen as her “Helper,” the children McQueen can be called upon to do what wear a special “on duty” badge. she does best. “It’s probably a little McQueen and Evergreen Principal disturbing to the parent to see their Jacque Crisman both sign certificates young child run up to a stranger for a naming each child as an “Official hug,” she says with a laugh. “But once I Custodial Helper.” McQueen enjoys introduce myself, it’s OK.” She gets a having these temporary helpers, and kick out of the small cries of surprise takes pride in “teaching them about often heard while she’s out shopping or safety, health, cleanliness, and the buddy even driving around, because the kids system.” She says, “I think it teaches believe she lives at school. Just recently, them to be responsible.” one youngster spotted her in a parking The kids like the program, too. One lot. “Look, Mom!” the child said, student, now in middle school, stopped pointing with delight. “It’s Mrs. by her office one day while waiting for McQueen, and she’s got a car!” 14 www.keypennews.com • Key Peninsula News February 2007 • www.keypennews.com Schools 15

Michael Sly (right), Jasmine Hilarious student performance Paxton and Chelcia Martin (below), some of the play’s entertains KPMS audience hilarious charac- ters. By Erica Ma, Special to KP News told the tale of a befuddled group of Photos courtesy ridiculously rich people celebrating Madison LaRose and “Lights!” New Year on a yacht, as Asa Jessica Kahler The lights flickered on, throwing the Buckcannon, the “head honcho” of the lavishly dressed cast in the scene of a family, suddenly dies from poison. luxuriant dining room into spotlights. More murders soon follow, and the “Camera!” already foolish family is thrown into Everyone took a deep breath, utter chaos and confusion. Just when readying themselves for the big things couldn’t get worse, Asa’s some- performance. what inept bodyguard, detective “Annnnnd action!” Palumbo, shows up on the scene, ready Immediately the action began, and to solve the case. Much to his dismay, “Asa Buckcannon,” a wealthy 65-year- the family scoffs at him, suspicious of old CEO of Buckcannon Industries, his minimal detective skills. proposed a toast to his equally wealthy With a cast of Phoebe Buckcannon, (though somewhat dim) family and the tyrannical mother of Asa; Gena, friends. who has a chip implanted into her “To good friends and relatives!” Asa brain, which makes her extremely exclaimed. bipolar; Greta, the long-lost relative “To good friends and relatives!” the who was raised in the jungle; and of family toasted. course, spoiled, gun-happy Sami Brady, “To a great year!” Asa exuberantly this show couldn’t get any funnier. shouted. After an incident with the lead actor “To a great year!” the family toasted. in the performance, Lennon Chalk, a “To Buckcannon Industries!” Asa ninth grader at Peninsula High School, called enthusiastically. was asked to fill in the lead. He eagerly “To Buckcannon Industries!” the agreed, and set out to study the char- family toasted. acter of Palumbo. Another ninth “I don’t feel so good,” Asa said and grader, Nick Markman, filled in for paused, looking slightly pale. another actor in the play. Lennon and “I don’t feel so good!” the family Nick are excellent actors, and have toasted. performed in previous Key Peninsula “No, I’m serious!” Asa moaned, less plays. Despite the limited time, they did energetically now. an outstanding job of memorizing the “No, I’m serious!” the family toasted. lines, and performed wonderfully, “I think I’ve been poisoned,” Asa making “Days of Our Nights” one of the choked. most memorable plays KPMS has seen. “I think I’ve been poisoned!” the When asked about the play after- family toasted. wards, the cast unanimously agreed it “I’m dying, you idiots!” Asa was a huge success, eliciting uproar- bemoaned. ious laughter from the audience. Actor “I’m dying, you idiots!” the family Tara Miller said, “It made them laugh a toasted. lot. I’m just glad they didn’t throw After a few moments of overdramatic vegetables at us.” staggering and stumbling, Asa fell The teacher of the advanced drama down dead, his last words being, “I’m class, Jason McWhirter, highly praised dead!” the talent and perseverance the class “Asa Buckcannon” is 13-year-old has shown. Although weather condi- Michael Sly, who portrayed this char- tions cancelled nearly all their dress acter with humor and wit in Key rehearsals, the students were unhin- Peninsula Middle School’s latest play, dered and worked hard, bringing an “Days of our Nights.” With an addi- outstanding play to the school. tional twist, he also played Casa, Asa’s “Despite the weather problems and identical twin sister. With an outra- cast problems, this class did an geous wig and an even more absurd amazing job, and I was proud to be a dress, Casa is literally Asa in drag. “It part of the production,” McWhirter seemed interesting to play the role of a said proudly. ‘manly’ woman,” Sly said. The play, staged for KPMS students Erica Ma is a Key Peninsula Middle as well as the community in January, School eighth-grade student. 16 www.keypennews.com • Key Peninsula News Mingling business with community service: The KPBA offers networking, ways to give back to community

By Irene Torres, KP News KPBA details If the turnout for the installation of offi- The monthly KPBA luncheon meeting, cers is any indication of support, Jud held the third Friday of each month at Morris, incoming president of the Key Blondie’s Bar and Grill, features guest Peninsula Business Association, may have speakers covering topics relevant to an easy term. business activity or Key Peninsula The dining room at Blondie’s was full to issues. February speaker will be the capacity when Morris and other officers Pierce County sheriff and the Pierce were initiated at the KPBA’s annual County auditor will speak in March. meeting on Jan. 22. Everyone was “there to Breakfast meetings are held the first support Jud,” many said as they were intro- Friday each month at LuLu’s HomePort, duced. His staff from the KP Family at 7:30 a.m. Resource Center office attended. Also represented were new startup businesses, Morris has been the director of the Photo by Frank Slater some that recently moved to the KP, and nonprofit Key Peninsula Family Resource KPBA officers installed at the meeting, l-r,Todd Rosenbach and Barbara Heard, sharing others that have been serving the penin- Center/Children’s Home Society for one secretary responsibilities; Carrie Ellis, treasurer; Jud Morris, president; and Claudia Loy, sula 25 years like Sunnycrest Nursery, or 35 year. He told the KP News, “KPBA’s elec- vice president.Terry Lee seen in foreground. years like the Home Feed and Grocery tion of a nonprofit agency person as presi- Store. dent reflects the business association’s view depend on me to help… The breakfast name of every single person who attended The KPBA has about 80 members, that all organizations provide services and and lunch meetings are a good place for tonight.” including not only businesses but also resources. We all serve the same people in established businesses to meet. It gets them Ashby said the KPBA is a dynamic group nonprofit organizations, government the community, whether we refer to them acquainted with other businesses from the of people. “The interest and focus of the agencies, and individuals. as customers, consumers, or clients.” Purdy Spit to Taylor Bay.” KPBA tends to take on the personality of its Outgoing President Bek Ashby said in an He feels his election demonstrates At the installation ceremony, Ashby active members,” she said. “The KPBA is interview, “The KPBA provides an opportu- KPBA’s willingness to consider different acknowledged Bramhall’s dedication to willing to be what the membership wants it nity to meet community members and possibilities and new opportunities, as well the community, saying, “Ruth knew the to be.” business owners and to serve and be part of as its history, which includes being involved the community.” in many community events. Ashby, who works for Belfair-based “I believe the KPBA has a solid founda- North Bay Mortgage, believes it is impor- tion to support growth and development tant to her company to be part of the of services and resources for Key Peninsula community where it does business, residents, and at the same time develop including the Key Pen. “The KPBA strategies to attract people who do not live provides that avenue,” she said. on the Key Peninsula to Key Peninsula businesses,” he said. “One of KPBA’s KPBA’s community strengths is how members support each involvement other.” He plans to build on that strength. KPBA provides various benefits to its Outgoing President Bek Ashby members, ranging from networking outlined the activities benefiting the opportunities to visibility. Members are community: The KPBA is one of the listed in the organization’s marketing organizing groups for the Key Peninsula brochure and on its Website, Fair. “This is a great service to the www.kpba.org, which also provides a link to community, with much time and energy members’ sites. spent by members,” she said. Fire District 16 Capt. Chuck West said, “It The KPBA sponsors a Little League seems that you see the same faces at the team and gives two $500 scholarships KPBA that you see elsewhere making this each spring to two graduating Key community a great place either as a Peninsula seniors. The organization had member or presenting to the group... And adopted a portion of the Key Peninsula we get to be part of an organization that Highway near Home for litter pickup, provides a vital boost to the spirit of this and members clean the roadside four community. They are a great association times a year. It also sponsors a full- for the KP, doing great things.” page ad, listing members’ names, each One of those “same faces” is that of Ruth year for the Christmas Tree Lighting Bramhall. She has been a member of the and Santa’s schedule, and provides KPBA for at least 10 years. She said, “I am refreshments at the tree lighting. always selling (raffle tickets etc.), and I For more information call Jud Morris enjoy the meetings, working with at 884-5433. everyone, and offering suggestions... They February 2007 • www.keypennews.com 17 18 Community Works www.keypennews.com • Key Peninsula News COMMUNITY WORKS Submit calendar items to [email protected] • Deadline 17th of the month

Feb. 1 — Fuchsia Club Feb. 3 – Contra dance presents “American Roots Music: A Sonic Improvement Club. He has 27 years of The Lakebay Fuchsia Society begins Joe Michaels, an experienced caller Adventure of Continental Proportions,” a experience and is perhaps best known as another year of special events, educa- from Seattle, will lead the Contra dance, free lecture by ethnomusicologist Brian the Summit Club climber who rescued tional programs, and garden tours. and the Lakebay Rollers will return with Pertl. Drawing from our country’s rich Lincoln Hall, who’d been left for dead, Meetings are the first Thursday evening their delightful fiddling to begin the cultural history, he will demonstrate how on Mt. Everest. Mazur leads treks to of each month. The first program of the season at LIC. The Contra dances, important early styles and forms of music Nepal several times a year. Admission is year will cover the things to do now to get walking in time to live music assisted by a nurtured and shaped contemporary $5/adult and $2/school age. you and your fuchsias ready for another caller who does walk-throughs and music like modern blues and rock. Pertl Saturday, Feb. 10, 7 p.m. (doors open great gardening year. prompts, will be held on the first has been a teacher at the University of at 6:30), Longbranch Improvement Club; Thursday, Feb 1, 7 p.m. Key Center Saturday each month through April and Washington and lecturer for Humanities Carolyn, 884-9157 or [email protected] Library; Candy, 884-9744. also in October and November. A work- Washington’s Inquiring Mind series for shop is presented at 7:30 p.m. to teach many years, covering topics including Feb. 10 – Skating Feb. 2 – Mustard Seed the basics and welcome newcomers. The American popular music, African fundraiser Project dance follows from 8 to 10:30 p.m. American music, Anglo-American music Admission is $7 at the door with a as well as aboriginal music of Australia The Key Peninsula Civic Center will The Mustard Seed Project, focused on maximum of $25 per family. This is a and sacred music of Tibet. host a special Saturday Skate Night to the development of an elder-friendly Key smoke-free, no-alcohol event in which Thursday, Feb. 8, 7 p.m., free, Key raise funds for a new lighting system. Peninsula, has scheduled four commu- folks of all ages can get together for an Center Library; 884-2242 Saturday, Feb. 10, 6-9 p.m. $5/person nity task group meetings for February. evening of good fun. Residents of the Key Peninsula and Saturday, Feb. 3, 7:30-11 p.m., Feb. 8 – Bible class Feb. 11- Habitat for current and potential service providers Longbranch Improvement Club; Tricia, begins Humanity application who want to gather information, review 884-7830. possibilities and create options for “aging Lakebay Christian Assembly is spon- meeting in place” are urged to attend these meet- Feb. 8 — League of soring a presentation of the video series Habitat for Humanity, Gig Harbor/Key ings. Women Voters meeting “Growing Kids God’s Way,” a class/ Peninsula Chapter, will conduct two Senior Information and Referral discussion group on parenting from a application meetings to consider appli- Group - Friday, Feb. 2, 10 a.m. The discussion topic at the next Gig Biblical perspective. Meetings will be cants for a Habitat home to families on Transportation and Mobility for Elders Harbor/Key Peninsula Unit of the weekly from February through June. the Key Peninsula. Group - Friday, Feb. 9, 10 a.m. League of Women Voters will be the (The time will be determined soon.) Call The meetings will be held at the Key Elder Health and Wellness-related unit’s transportation study of traffic flow to register soon so supplies can be Peninsula Lutheran Church on Sunday, Services Group - Thursday, Feb. 15, 10 and congestion on State Road 302. Due ordered. Feb. 11 at 2 p.m. and on Sunday, Feb.25 a.m. to the storm, the December meeting on Thursdays, Feb-June, Lakebay at 2 p.m. Housing Options for Aging in Place this topic was cancelled. This is the vital Christian Assembly; Michael or Sharron Families who live in substandard living Group – Friday, Feb. 23, 10 a.m. highway serving Key Peninsula and Dean, 884-9948 conditions, who have low incomes, and Brones Room, Key Center Library; 884- connecting SR-16 and the region with the who demonstrate a desire and ability to 3920 or ediemorgan@themustardseed- land routes to the west. The unit will Feb. 9 – Foreign film at partner with Habitat and live and work in project.org begin by reviewing past studies by the library Pierce County are selected. The house- state Department of Transportation and hold income of these families needs to fall Feb. 3 – “The Whale the transportation section of the The Japanese foreign film “Shall We between 25 percent and 50 percent of the Rider” at library proposed Key Peninsula Community Plan Dance” will be shown at the Key Center median income in Pierce County ($16,775 in Pierce County. It will lay plans for Library at 7:30 p.m. on Friday evening. to $33,550 for a family of five). Selected “The Whale Rider,” a movie rated PG- being informed of the upcoming 2007 884-2242 families are required to put in 500 hours 13, will be shown at 2 p.m. on Saturday, environmental impact study of the SR- of “sweat equity” to build their home and Feb. 3, at the Key Center Library, 884- 302 problems by the WSDOT. The Feb. 9 – Regional blood the homes of other selected families. 2242. League encourages women and men drive Bring copies, not originals, of the from the Key, Gig Harbor, and Kitsap following documents for all family Feb. 3- Little League clinic Peninsula region to join and participate The Cascade Regional Blood Services members: birth certificates or immigra- and late registration in discussion of the topic. will be at Peninsula High School, 14015 tion documents, Social Security cards, Thursday, Feb. 8, 6:30-8:30 p.m., Gig Purdy Drive NW, from 8 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. 2004 and 2005 federal tax returns for all The Key Peninsula Little League is Harbor Visitor and Volunteer Center, Call 1-877-24-BLOOD for other dates and wage earners (including W-2s), W-2s for having a players’ clinic and late registra- 3125 Judson St., Gig Harbor (across locations. 2006, proof of all household income for tion on Feb. 3 at Volunteer Park. The Judson from the Post Office); Liz Lathrop, the past 12 months, rent receipt or lease KPLL will also hold tryouts on Feb. 10 851-2210, or Mary Mazur, 884-1061 Feb. 10 – Mt. Everest agreements, documentation for all debts and 11 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at climber speaks (include total balance and monthly Volunteer Park. The season will begin on Feb. 8 – American Roots payments), insurance statements, utility March 24. music at the library Dan Mazur, a well-known mountain statements, and it is suggested you bring www.eteamz.com/keypeninsulalittle- climbing expedition leader, will be a a free credit report (a free credit report league, 253-677-2743 The Friends of the Key Center Library guest speaker at the Longbranch per year can be obtained by visiting February 2007 • www.keypennews.com Community Works 19 www.creditreport.com or calling 1-877- Feb. 21 – Community Feed was canceled due to the shortage of station in Wauna. The station had been 322-8228). Council meeting crab this year causing a high increase in located at the Pierce Transit Kimball Sunday, Feb. 11 and 25, 2 p.m., Key crab prices. The event was planned as a Drive Park & Ride in Gig Harbor. Peninsula Lutheran Church, 4213Lackey and location changed fundraiser for the center. The donation site will be open seven Rd KPN, Lakebay; Orval, 857-4873 The KP Community Council’s regular days a week, 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. Local meeting for February has been pushed Ongoing — residents are also welcome to drop off Feb. 15 — KP Senior back a week due to Valentine’s Day and TOPS meetings donations at the Gig Harbor Goodwill Society moved to a new location. store, 4805 Point Fosdick Drive in Gig Wednesday, Feb. 21, 7 p.m., Vaughn Members of TOPS chapter Wa #1019, Harbor. Residents are reminded to The Key Peninsula Senior Society will Fire Station 5 (Wright-Bliss and SR-302); Vaughn report that they lost 250 pounds bring donations only during the hours celebrate Valentine’s Day with a lasagna Lance, 884-5667 in 2006 as a group. Donna Kopp had the the donation station is open. feast/potluck. Come and join the group at best results, with 38 pounds down. To check what gently used items noon for food, laughter and card games. March – Teen holds Overall, 25 members had good results for Goodwill accepts, visit www.tacoma- Thursday, Feb 15, noon, Key Peninsula another fundraiser the year. If you are looking for support goodwill.org and click on “Donate.” For Civic Center, Vaughn; 884-5052 or 884- and would like to join the chapter, they more information about the new site, 4981 Katrina English, eighth-grade student at meet every Monday evening at the fire contact Elaine Brabham at 573-1333 Key Peninsula Middle School, will hold station at Wright-Bliss Road and SR-302. ext. 305. Feb. 16 — Peace activists another fundraiser, a dinner/auction to Cost is $24 to join and $5 monthly dues; Last year, there were 91,200 drop-off speak out help earn her tuition cost for her People no food products are sold. visits to Goodwill donation stations on to People Student Ambassador trip to Weigh-in, 6 p.m.; meetings end at 8 the Peninsula. Gig Harbor and Key The Key Peacemakers will host a panel Europe this summer. She has earned p.m.; 884-4102 Peninsula residents contributed nearly of speakers from regional peace groups $1,300 toward the $6,000 tuition. Katrina’s 5 million pounds of clothing and house- who will share information of the history January fundraiser at Roundtable Pizza in Ongoing — Teen Coffee hold goods in support of Goodwill’s and mission of their groups, their Tacoma brought in 10 supporters, and the House mission. personal involvement, and upcoming family wishes to thank all the contributors, projects. The representatives and groups sponsors and donors. The Teen Coffee House, for youth in are: Sallie Shawl from Peace, Justice, and Saturday, March 3, 5 p.m., Lake grades 9 to 12, is open every Friday night Healing and United for Peace Pierce Holiday Clubhouse; $10/person or from 7 to 11 p.m. at McColley Hall. Get involved County; Laura and Tom Karlin from the $30/family of 4; 225-5519, Fridays, 7-11 p.m., McColley Hall, 4213 Tacoma Catholic Worker; and folks from [email protected] Lackey Rd, Lakebay; Lynda 253-849-6629 Volunteer corner the Gig Harbor Women in Black. Some of these people have been involved in social March 3 crab feed Goodwill station in Wauna SAVE Thrift Store is seeking volun- justice and peacemaking for many years. canceled teers to work at the store. Add your Friday, Feb. 16, 7 p.m., Key Center A new Goodwill donation station name to the line-up of seniors, parents Library; Dory Myers, 884-9299 The Second Annual Civic Center Crab opened in January by the Chevron gas of school-age children, and other community volunteers who enjoy working at the store once or twice a month, once or twice a week, or more, as they desire. Volunteers need no prior retail experience; all training is done VOLUNTEER SPOTLIGHT onsite for tasks such as sorting dona- tions, pricing, hanging clothes, Phyllis Whittington tainment, a way for parents to be says. “The program is one day per displaying merchandise and cashiering. involved with their children’s educa- month, and each month is a new art Profits support the scholarship program California lost a dynamo when tional experience. She credits a grant experience.” and activity groups at Peninsula High Phyllis Whittington and her husband from the Angel Guild for launching Outside of her school activities, with School. Call 857-2800 or drop by the moved to Port Orchard in 1991 to care that successful program. Whittington the help of a friend, Whittington store on Purdy Lane just below for an aged parent. It says the principal began seeing parents began a small holiday outreach Peninsula High School. didn’t take long for at those functions he’d not seen partic- campaign. For several years now, she the family to discover ipate before. “It’s a comfortable intro- has chosen two or three families “who The Key Peninsula Civic Center the Key Peninsula. duction to the school,” she says. need some extra cheer through the board needs new members to infuse Whittington has two This year she is working with the holidays,” and the two women prepare new ideas, energy and enthusiasm. The children, ages 9 and “Magnificent Milers Club” at midday holiday offerings of goodwill and board meets monthly on the second 11, in Vaughn Monday and Friday recess. These are comfort. Thursday at 7 p.m. The board oversees Elementary School. students who run laps at recess. Whittington and her husband, Steve, the use, rental, maintenance, upkeep, WHITTINGTON She has served as PTA Whittington started out running with began a small tile and stone business in finances and expenditures of the Civic president, and has them until one day she realized she was their garage in 1993. Today it has Center, home to the Children’s Home held other school volunteer parent running on a broken ankle. She still grown to two retail shops. Whittington Society, two churches, the Key positions. She laughingly says as a has a few weeks remaining as a spec- balances her time between volunteer Peninsula Museum, Key Peninsula teenager she watched Harper Valley tator, not that it’s slowed down her activities, the family business, and News, and other organizations. Bring PTA on TV and couldn’t wait to have other volunteer activities. fishing — her primary hobby. your ideas and expertise to the next her own family and be involved in their Monday and Friday afternoons she “I do lots of things because I want meeting in the Whitmore Room at the lives. A few years ago, she began volunteers in her children’s class- to,” she says. “Not because someone Civic Center on Thursday, Feb. 8 at 7 “Family Fun Night” at Vaughn rooms, and this year is involved with a says I have to. I think that’s what makes p.m. Contact Ben at 857-5075, Phil at Elementary, a free monthly event at new program at the school: “Hands-on- a great volunteer.” 884-9172, or Gena at 884-3456. school combining dinner and enter- Art.” “I’m so excited about this,” she — Chris Fitzgerald 20 Business www.keypennews.com • Key Peninsula News Moreland’s sale puts Guinn in driver’s seat

By Chris Fitzgerald, KP News district to be a bus driver. Jim Guinn, the new Guinn comes from an automotive family owner/operator of The new owner of Moreland and Sons background, born and raised in Seattle. Moreland and Sons Auto Repair, Jim Guinn, took ownership For 27 years his father owned an auto parts Auto Service, together on Nov. 20, after having successfully store where he worked summers, learning with auto mechanic negotiated a purchase from Eric and about the field, and rebuilding alterna- Jay Geier, takes a Manuella Moreland. tors. He went to heavy-duty mechanic’s look under the hood The Morelands initially had no inkling school, worked as a mechanic for five of a vehicle. they would be selling last year. Eric years, then returned to run a family Moreland thought they would “go three to machine shop. Eventually, Seattle became five years more” before beginning to look too big for Guinn and his family. A small for a buyer who shared their commitment town when he was a boy, Seattle had to service for their rural community. become “too hustle and bustle — no “The only way I would sell it is if (the community atmosphere,” he says. The Photo by Hugh McMillan purchaser) would have the same values as I family sold both the machine shop and put into it,” he says. “It’s still my name on their Seattle home and moved to Olalla. Sons in July 2006 was “nothing short of Guinn plans to remodel the waiting the building. We (wanted to be sure) For two years he worked for Baxter Auto incredible.” “A shop of this size, doing the room, and may eventually add additional customers would be given consistent, trust- Parts and observed 105 auto shops. He volume they do, is the proverbial ‘needle bays and enlarge the auto holding area. worthy service…” asked himself, “What was business like for in the haystack,’” he says. And here it was He’s thinking of holding a contest in a few After running the business for nine the auto repair industry?” In September almost right in his own back yard. months to invite the community to help years, Moreland says the hardest part is 2005, armed with his answers, he began “Nothing has changed on the service them find a new name. what to do next. He loves cars, the automo- the search for his own auto-repair shop, an end,” he says. Nearly all the original staff “Nobody likes change,” Guinn tive business, and concedes he took the established business that was well-run and remains on board. Tony Andresen, the son concedes, and is “90 percent sure” he business home with him. “It’s hard to walk profitable. Guinn expected he may have to of the original owner when the shop was wants residents’ input on that decision. away from customers,” he says. He’s taking commute some distance to find such a Black Forest Auto Repair, has been hired, “We put everything we had into the some time off to spend with his three shop — the family was settled and they joining Casey Hawke, Craig McKean and business,” he says. “We want to give the teenage boys, and to plan his next step. were not moving again. Jay Geier. Kevin Balshuesman, service entire community a huge ‘thank you’ Manuella has been recruited by the school A chance phone call to Moreland and writer, still meets customers at the counter. during the transition.” February 2007 • www.keypennews.com Business 21

Gina Earl is surrounded by all sorts of treasurers at her new store, Moon on the Meadow.

Photo by Mindi LaRose ‘Moon on the Meadow’ a dream come true

By Chris Fitzgerald, KP News “Moon on the Meadow” is located at 14938 Bethel-Burley Road, and has Gina Earl loves antiques, and during all generous open hours. her years living in Tacoma, she collected them. She is also a potter accomplished in Harbor North is “creeping this way.” hand-built vessels and unusual finishes. Although this round-about way of estab- Eventually her passions outgrew her home, lishing “Moon on the Meadow” definitely and after dreaming of owning a shop for a is unusual, they all agree it has been an decade, one day she just made a leap. interesting chapter in their long friend- “If I don’t sell my house (in Tacoma) ship. and get going, it will never happen,” she Earl’s shop, and the house she lives in told herself. At the same time, while still next door with her two dogs and two cats, working as a grant writer for the MultiCare is painted bright yellow; both have red Health System, she began to look for the roofs, and the cheerful buildings can be perfect spot for her new life. seen from state Route 16. Volunteers help Earl found it in Burley, just next to the Earl with tasks she cannot yet do; that does Burley Grocery Store. Friends she’s known not mean her enthusiasm for this new life for 30 years who now live on the Burley has diminished. “I’ve never lived in the Lagoon, Bob Christel and Dewayne country before,” she says. “This little Grimes, had been looking at the building Burley area — it’s been here forever and I as a potential restaurant, decided against couldn’t ask for better neighbors. I feel like that, and mentioned it to Earl. I’m actually part of a community.” The building, zoned neighborhood The shop is a cozy 750 or so square feet, commercial, had been many things in its and features a main antique/art salon and life, beginning as a gas station in 1935; Earl a doll room. An eclectic mix of Victorian couldn’t wait to transform it once again. furniture, Hummels and Franklin Mint She was still working in Tacoma when she collector plates greets visitors, along with first converted the garage into an espresso art deco pieces and “One Hot Bag” one-of- stand, a transition phase that would even- a-kind purses. Earl plans to attend auctions tually become the shop she held in her to augment her stock of antiques and imagination for so many years. Then she collectibles, and to bring in more local art. became seriously ill, had heart surgery and She also accepts artwork on consignment, her dream seemed far beyond reach, both and tries to make it affordable for artists to economically and physically. show their work. She has featured collabo- Christel and Grimes stepped forward, rative pastels by Ric Hall and Ron Schmitt, purchased the property from her, then watercolors by Donna Fredenburg, and rented it back to her. “We are comfortable her own Raku pottery. being ‘hands on’ owners,” Grimes said. At the back of the shop, behind a door, “This has been Gina’s dream for a long is a small pottery kiln room. Earl accepts time, and we want her to envision it as she one or two students at a time who are inter- sees it evolving. She’s creating a stir among ested in learning how to hand-build with people who know her.” clay; they work right in the shop, among They see their decision as a way to help the antiques, overseen by her Yorkie, preserve the location, and note that Gig Cinnamon. 22 www.keypennews.com • Key Peninsula News February 2007 • www.keypennews.com Politics 23 Commentary: Ethics in government By Rick Sorrels filed against any of the local office- lease a portion of this site from KPMPD Depending upon the particular viola- Special to the KP News holders, but certain concerns have for a permanent fair location. Two of tion, the codes allow for fines, jail time, been raised. the parks commissioners have a finan- and/or removal from office to be ccording to media sources, a Some citizens occasionally comment cial interest. assessed against the individual office- fire chief in the city of Sumner upon the number of Bosch family Commissioner Ross Bischoff said, holder. A is currently being investigated members employed by FD-16, with one “Seeing as how I have in the past Government entities such as the state for ethics violations for being employed serving as a fire commissioner. Fire contracted with Renaissance Faire for a of Washington and Pierce County have concurrently as the factory representative Chief Tom Lique said that family concession stand, I must in the future detailed ethics codes, with citizens for the company that sold fire trucks to members do not supervise each other recuse myself of any future voting elected for an oversight board. Small the department. A city of Tacoma coun- in the district. “Our policies would not concerning the 360 acres or a Ren Faire governmental bodies may or may not cilwoman is also being investigated for allow it,” he said. “No matter how great lease.” have adopted an ethics code. In these ethics violations for voting on utility their job performance, they simply Commissioner Elmer Anderson, cases, concerns could be addressed to improvements for portions of the city cannot advance into a position where appointed recently to fill a vacant parks the executive in charge, like a fire chief where she owns property, and for they would supervise a family member. board seat, owns the nearby vacant land or parks director, or to a commissioner receiving a “tax break” for renovation of It would conflict with this rule.” that Renaissance Faire has leased for if the executive is the subject of the a home listed on the city’s Register of FD-16 board Chairman Rick Stout the last nine years for its festival. “I will complaint. Concerns about a commis- Historic Places. said, “Commissioner (Jim) Bosch has need to carefully consider the wording sioner are directed to the chairman of The “Appearance of Fairness been very careful to abstain from any of proposed motions that come before the board. Doctrine” requires that “public officials board vote which might conflict. He’s the board before I decide whether a Ultimately, all elected officials are must execute their duties with the even avoided participating in union conflict exists or not,” he said. responsible to the voters who can recall appearance, as well as the reality, of contract negotiations, because the Detailed ethics codes are found in them from office. Mindy Chamber of fairness, and that they must be as objec- results might benefit a family member.” numerous places: Judges in the Code of the state Auditor’s Office said, “In some tive and free as possible of entangling Another concern is developing in the Judicial Conduct (CJC), state officers particular circumstances, the auditor influences.” The two predominant parks district. KPMPD is negotiating and employees in RCW 42.23, RCW can get involved, but we investigate and governmental agencies on the Key with the state to obtain the 360 acres 42.36, and RCW 42.52, county officials advise only, we are not an enforcement Peninsula are Fire District 16 and the near State Route 302 and Powerline in PCC 3.12, city of Tacoma in TMC agency. The county prosecutor always Key Peninsula Metro Parks District. Road for a park. The Washington 1.46, and other organizations in their has the option to prosecute for crim- There have been no official complaints Renaissance Fantasy Faire wants to bylaws and operating procedures. inal violations.” 24 www.keypennews.com • Key Peninsula News

(From KILMER, Page 1) Sen. Derek Kilmer Legislature, like the states of California, receives the oath of Michigan, and New York have, Kilmer of $476,000 compared to the $142,000 or office on Jan. 8 from said, “I’m not crazy about that. I think so that Hines received. Washington State there’s a value in having legislators who When asked to comment on the Supreme Court Chief have real-world jobs and can bring that amount Kilmer spent, Kevin Carns, the Justice Gerry perspective to Olympia.” Republican political director for the state Alexander on the Before winning his Senate seat, Rep. House of Representatives, said: “Races opening day of the Kilmer sponsored a state constitutional are becoming more expensive. Still, that’s 60th legislative amendment (House Joint Resolution a lot of money for a state race. But they session. 4223) to increase personal property tax (the Democratic Party) wanted that seat.” exemptions, which the voters overwhelm- To put the cost of the Kilmer/Hines ingly approved. He also worked to pass race in perspective, consider a May 4, measures that would authorize a job 2006, article in the Seattle Post- Photo courtesy creation tax credit and provide financial Intelligencer, which said, “The cost of state Senate protections to business owners who serve running a successful legislative to the floor… Because of people like Tim Kilmer said, “I believe we can address in the National Guard or Reserves. campaign has more than doubled in the Sheldon (35th District) who may vote with rights issues without redefining marriage. Where the Key Peninsula is concerned, past decade; the average cost of waging the Republicans, you can’t count on them I don’t think we should discriminate Kilmer points to his efforts to secure $10 a successful bid for the state Senate, for for support. Especially on issues that are against anyone.” When KP News pressed million that will be used to provide local example, has grown to nearly very important to Democrats having to do for a yes or no answer regarding gay residents with discounted tolls on the new $150,000.” Which is roughly one-third with human rights.” marriage, the senator smiled, and gave Narrows Bridge during its first year of of what Kilmer spent. When asked why he chose to give up his the same answer he had before. operation, so long as the money is actually So, what does $476,000 buy? When House seat and run for the Senate, Kilmer Kilmer, who grew up on the Olympic budgeted (see related story, page 9). He asked about the television ads he ran, seemed to lend support to that theory. Peninsula where he saw people lose also worked to fund improvements to Kilmer said, “We did three separate ads — “There were a lot of issues that we pushed their jobs as the timber industry State Route 302, specifically preliminary one highlighting my work helping mili- out of the House that got jammed up in collapsed, maintains that his primary design work having to do with the possi- tary and veteran families; one listing some the Senate,” he said. “And my hope is that focus lays outside the realm of partisan bility of a new Key Pen access corridor, of my endorsements from nurses, we can make some progress on issues politics. His parents were school and found a way to pay for road improve- teachers, law enforcement etc.; and one related to the community.” teachers, but thanks to scholarships, he ments that helped move forward St. quoting from the various newspaper With a big win in his pocket, it would was able to attend Princeton, where he Anthony’s Hospital in Gig Harbor North. endorsements that we received.” be understandable if Kilmer took a earned a bachelor’s degree in public For this session, Kilmer was selected as As for all those direct mail pieces, verbal victory lap, but the newly elected affairs, before going on to the University the vice chairman of both the Senate Kilmer said, “I know we sent out a couple senator chooses to deemphasize party of Oxford, where he was awarded a International Trade and Economic in the primary election and then some- politics, in favor of getting things done. doctorate in comparative social policy Development Committee, and the Senate thing like seven or eight in the general. “I think people are tired of partisan- focused on economic development. Higher Education Committee. “I couldn’t We had a number of groups — the real- ship,” Kilmer said. “What is more impor- And that’s where Kilmer’s political be more excited, or honored, to be tors, the teachers, the dental association tant is how we can work together to solve and professional careers intersect each chosen for these committees,” he said. — who sent out mailings in support of me problems. I did two things when I got to other. When not in Olympia, working “The work of these groups represents my as well.” And, according to information Olympia… First, I decided to vote for on behalf of the citizens of the 26th top two legislative priorities.” available online, the Senate Democratic what was right, regardless of party. The Legislative District, he is a manager for When asked about what ambitions, if Campaign Committee sent $43,875 second thing was to find a Republican the Economic Development Board for any, he might have for even higher office, Kilmer’s way, putting him among the top co-sponsor for legislation that I put Tacoma-Pierce County. Kilmer indicated that all his attention is candidates in terms of their donations. In forward, and I think I succeeded about When asked about the potential for a focused on the Senate. However, when KP addition, the Washington State 90 to 95 percent of the time. I think conflict of interest between the two jobs, News addressed the same question to Democratic Central Committee we’re better off when we work with each Kilmer said: “The organization I work for Democratic committeeman Robison, he contributed $50,000 toward Kilmer’s other rather than duking it out.” is not for profit. I think there’s a great said that Congressman Norm Dicks won’t campaign, and the 26th District According to Robison, that philosophy deal of synergy between it and my respon- be in office forever, and when the local Democrats gave him more than $20,000. has everything to do with why the sibilities in Olympia.” Democrats ponder the future, Derek Why were Democrats and their allies Democratic Party chose to support Kilmer As for the possibility of a full-time Kilmer’s name has a tendency to pop up. throwing so much money Kilmer’s way? so strongly. “He’s a guy who can sit down The answer may lie in the fact that while and listen to all sides of a question. Not the pre-election Democrats had a three- everyone will be happy — but good things vote majority in the Senate, two of their will come out of it,” he said. members had a consistent tendency to Do Republicans agree? Not exactly. vote with the Republican minority, which Carns says, “To Derek Kilmer’s credit, he’s made it difficult to muster the votes a ferocious campaigner. There are times required to win where social issues were when his partisanship shows through.” concerned. Perhaps some of that can be seen where George Robison, state committeeman the so-called “wedge issues” are for the 26th District’s Democrats, said, “It concerned. Kilmer is crystal clear about was very important to win this district, the question of legalized abortion — and because this is kind of a swing district, and a little less so where gay marriage is it could have gone either way. It’s not only concerned. When asked if he’s in favor of important to have control of the Senate a woman’s right to chose, he said, “I am. I generally, but to control the committee believe it should be safe, legal, and rare.” process, so that the right legislation comes But, when asked about gay marriage, February 2007 • www.keypennews.com People & Lifestyles 25 Key Peninsula sweethearts love to celebrate

By Jeanette Brown, Special to KP News For more stories celebrating love and local getaways, see our special What would Albert Krause think about insert section, Time for Romance. the small buffalo herd peacefully grazing along the fence line on a 10-acre spread ranch that features her recent wedding. now known as Maplewood Ranch, part of a The Wards have made many improve- new Longbranch subdivision located just ments to their home and grounds over off 40th Street? Moreover, what would he the past nine years, including opening think about the Key Peninsula couple who up the view of Filucy Bay and adding a now reside in the newly remodeled farm magnificent water feature and a 1950s- home (replete with gated driveway and style, covered wraparound deck with a professional landscaping)that he originally peaked roof to augment the historical built in the mid-1950s, a piece of features of the home. Longbranch legend that some locals still Photo by Mindi LaRose Right after the Wards bought their new refer to as the “Old Krause Homestead”? High school sweethearts Roy and Robin Ward open their beautiful property to friends place, they started holding family Most likely Krause, the son of famous and family for weddings and other events.Their daughter’s wedding was held right below, reunions, and gave it the name of Key Peninsula pioneers, would give a big on the grassy area. Maplewood Ranch. It wasn’t long before “thumbs up” to the buffalo, once found in family and friends began asking to use abundance on the great plains of the The owners of Maplewood Ranch, Roy Not too long after Roy Ward and their “entertainment-friendly” estate and American West, and now making a grand and Robin Ward, are Peninsula High Dorothy Sigmund graduated from grounds to host their own celebrations and and rapid comeback in Washington. He School sweethearts who decided to move Peninsula High School in the early 1950s, events. The buffalo herd that graze peace- would likely be quite taken with these two out to the relatively new subdivision from they were married. Roy Jr. grew up in fully on the grounds are an extra added business owners and lifetime Gig their small farm in Key Center in order to Rosedale; his future bride, Robin, resided attraction, and buffalo steaks are served up Harbor/Key Peninsula-area residents who remodel and restore their newly purchased just a short distance away in Minter. frequently on the large outdoor barbeque. seem to embody the “old pioneer spirit,” 1950s farm house and barn. Of course, Roy is proud of the fact that their The Wards also had the old barn embracing family values of yore and a they brought their two daughters with daughters, Kate and Ashlee, are the third remodeled; the main floor features a strong work ethic. them and have been making changes at generation of Wards to graduate from large and efficient country kitchen for Maplewood Ranch ever since. Peninsula High School. Therefore, it cooking up those timeless family reunion The Wards are now empty nesters, and should come as no surprise, that in addi- specialty dishes. The second floor hosts a true to their pioneer roots, Roy and tion to owning and operating Maplewood private room with bath and also features Robin’s family tradition of hard work and Construction for the past 25 years, Roy a balcony with spectacular views of the strong family ties are firmly entrenched on also works at Peninsula High School as an bay and the ranch. both the Key and Kitsap peninsulas, assistant coach for the girls’ fast pitch soft- The Wards have always enjoyed enter- anchored by their large, extended families. ball team, where he also had the opportu- taining their family and friends and this Roy’s grandparents, Burt and Phyllis nity to coach his youngest daughter, June, Roy and Robin will be hosting the Ward, homesteaded just off the Key Ashlee, a big fan of girls’ fast pitch. Ashlee 50th wedding anniversary celebration of Peninsula Highway in the 1920s — not now attends Tacoma Community College her parents, Dick and Jodi Rasmussen. too far “down the peninsula” from Key and works part-time alongside her dad, The couple has seen many changes in Center. Roy’s maternal grandfather, mom and older sister in their business the area over the past two to three Howard Sigmund, was a local logger and offices located in Rosedale. decades, but they have learned to sawmill owner, and Roy’s mother, Older daughter, Kate, was married at embrace them and plan to celebrate and Dorothy, was one of nine Sigmund chil- Maplewood Ranch after graduating reminisce about all those changes dren. Roy estimates he has more than 100 from Eastern Washington University, frequently with their family and friends at first cousins living in the area. and later designed a Website for the the Maplewood Ranch. 26 People & Lifestyles www.keypennews.com • Key Peninsula News The right moves Key Peninsula dance instructor teaches how to move with the rhythm By Irene Torres, KP News dancing. shoes with smooth soles ensure solid fingertip touch, pivoting over open Henry has demonstrated his dance footing. A sense of rhythm, good palms, with never a grip, grasp, or Gliding across the dance floor, sliding techniques for wedding magazines and balance and unlocked knees allow the strong-arm maneuver. Like playing an in time to the music, spinning into a wedding shows, including the annual dancer to stay relaxed and ready to instrument, practicing dance improves private fantasy, couples appear to meld Tacoma Dome wedding show. He offers transition from one dance position to the performance, and enhances the into a single form, each lost in the arms basic dance steps, to full choreography another — face to face, side-by-side, or enjoyment of the activity. of the other. Outsiders wedding classes for the bride and passing around the back. Each move Henry says, “Whether you just want to can watch the rhythm groom, or even the full wedding party. adds interest to the dance and chal- learn social dancing or have a special of the dance, but He can teach the groom to dance with lenges to the dancers. Spins and twirls occasion, classes are provided in a non- dancers live within it. the mother-in-law, and the father to are accomplished with the lightest threatening, fun environment.” Dance is a common dance with the bride. These lessons will expression of romance come in handy for one Lacey couple between two people. It whose relationship has bloomed in is also good exercise, Henry’s classes, and who plan to marry providing a great HENRY this spring. cardiopulmonary He also choreographs dance showcases workout, while having fun. at least once each year, and is negotiating There is a dance instructor on the Key the details of a stage show, tentatively Peninsula who can teach even the left- titled “A Tribute to Dance,” a project that footed student to move to the music. will take two years to develop. Doug Henry, owner of Key Pen-based Even reluctant students find them- InStep Dance, has been teaching ball- selves laughing along with Henry, who room dance for 11 years, currently can readily step into the female teaching classes six days each week in partner’s role, and dance backward to Tacoma, and previously teaching at the better demonstrate the dance steps. KP Civic Center. He also provides private Henry’s secret to appearing light on his lessons for couples, individuals, or feet is to keep his weight on the balls of groups to learn ballroom or swing his feet, with shoulders level. Well-fit February 2007 • www.keypennews.com People & Lifestyles 27 Faith leads local dentist on adoption path

By Kristen Pierce, KP News beaten him to it and already had his prac- their church. They started searching tice in Key Center — so Olsson continued online and gathering information about The Key Center Corral is host to many to work at Fort Lewis until his prayers were different orphanages. diverse businesses that participate in and answered by an ironic and fortunate deci- “My wife is a very driven woman. She contribute to community events. Dr. John sion from the existing Key Center dentist really kept on the adoption road,” he says, Olsson, Key Peninsula resident and local to close his “small town” practice. So he describing their process of looking for a dentist, owns one of those businesses. moved out and Dr. Olsson moved in. child as “God engineered.” Although he is known for his participation “I’ve always dreamed of working in a The Olssons saw a photo online of a girl in the Christmas Tree Lighting since 1985, small town. I wanted to be in a place where from a Russian orphanage who reminded he would rather be acknowledged for everyone knew each other and out here, them of their oldest daughter, and fell in other feats, like being a dedicated everybody knows your name,” Olsson says. love with her. Having to fire their adoption husband, father, and Christian. He smiles and asks with a chuckle, “You agency, which turned out unscrupulous, Olsson was born in Norwalk, Conn. He know, like the TV show ‘Cheers’?” they traveled to Russia themselves. ventured west at age 17 to attend an under- Besides dentistry, Olsson’s primary They visited three different orphanages graduate school. He then enlisted in the interest is to glorify God, and then his wife to locate the 9-year-old girl, Dasha (who is Army for three years, following a family — in that order. He teaches Bible study. now 15 and named Jordan). In the process, tradition (his father was an engineer for One of his favorite verses, which he refers they also unintentionally “picked out” two the Naval Reserve), and enrolled in the to as his “life-verse,” is Romans 6:11. Olsson other children, 2-year-old Jenya (now dentistry program while living and working describes the verse by saying, “I try not to named Johnny, age 8) and 16-month-old at the Fort Lewis Air Force Base. He gradu- let sin rule me but let God rule me. Each Efiam (now named Joshua, age 7), which ated from the University of Washington’s day I wake up and ask, ‘What can I do for made a grand total of seven children. dental school in 1980. Photo courtesy Olsson family Him today?’ as I begin my day.” John Olsson beams like only a proud Olsson remained in practice at Fort The Olsson family on Mother’s Day, 2006. God answered him by planting the idea father can as he describes each child’s Lewis after he and his wife, Jean, (a to begin adopting children, Olsson says. personality and unique traits. He is also Washington native), moved to Gig Harbor. exploring the outskirts of Gig Harbor, he He and his wife already had four daughters glad to admit how well each child has After a while, the long work commute discovered the rustic, Western-themed Key of their own, but they thought, “Maybe settled into their family and how happy he became tedious, and Dr. Olsson decided Center Corral and immediately fell in love God wants us to adopt a boy.” and his wife are about their decision to go he would prefer to work in a smaller with the area, deciding to become a rural Soon after, the couple began discussing to Russia. But, as he put it earlier, it was all community, closer to home. While dentist. Unfortunately, another dentist had the adoption idea with other members of God engineered. 28 People & Lifestyles www.keypennews.com • Key Peninsula News A special friendship Mare helps nurse heal after stroke

By Chris Fitzgerald, KP News

For 30 years, Kristi Clark was a nurse ministering to the needs of others. Then I like the independence of two years ago, she had a stroke and found herself retired, with time on her being an entrepreneur, of hands, confused, dizzy, disoriented. “being outdoors. I’m just a Family and friends supported and dabbler with a love for comforted her; her curly/mustang pinto cross mare helped her heal. There were horses. many days of uncertainty for Clark — for — Kristi Clark herself, about her skills, her life before and now, and how it would all play out Photo by Mindi LaRose — and she found a path back to her Kristi Clark with Dixie and her foal, Morning Myst. center through Dixie, the mare. “So many times I just buried my nose Years later, a friend on the peninsula and her pinto foal, Morning Myst, live. country home is completed, and she is in her neck (and hung on),” she says. told her about a roughly trained mare Clark or her husband (or both) make just a short stroll away from her best “Somehow, we are in sync with each and thought she might be a good match the drive to feed, care for and visit the equine friend, Dixie. She says she’s other.” for Clark. Used as a broodmare,” at the horses twice daily; it’s a priority that looking forward to establishing an During those first unsteady months time Dixie was 7 or 8 years old, and other things work around. organic blueberry farm. following the stroke, and even now none too keen on people. Clark said she In late December, Clark received “I’m a project person,” she says. “I like occasionally, Clark knows she is “off” in trained her on “horse time” — couldn’t word from the county that the family’s the independence of being an entrepre- her timing, perhaps putting herself catch her for the first year, but after house plans have been approved. She is neur, of being outdoors. I’m just a unintentionally in harm’s way around a hand-grazing and really learning what looking forward to the day when her dabbler with a love for horses.” horse. Dixie seems to know, and moves made Dixie tick, the two became the to counter Clark’s mistaken step, taking best of friends. care, protecting her. Clark and her husband, Paul, have Originally a city girl from Seattle, lived in the area for 25 years, originally Clark began to learn about horses at age in Gig Harbor, and currently on Key 21 at a ranch in South Dakota. Her Pen on the water. Their daughter, then-husband’s grandfather had been a Jamie, is “the best rider in the family” horseman in World War I, and taught and will soon be leaving for the Marine her the basics. Clark went through a Corps. series of “bad” horses, rupturing her Years ago, the Clarks bought 27 spleen while working with an arabian at private, rolling acres in the Penrose one time. area and have made riding trails One thing she’s eager to pass along to throughout. In preparing to relocate to novice horse-lovers is to take care when the property, Clark thought of her choosing a horse. “You don’t need to horses’ comfort first; the first building take on one that will hurt you — I’ve she designed and had built on the land been there and done that,” she says. was a monitor horse barn. This is where “Avoid (that mistake).” the family’s four horses, including Dixie February 2007 • www.keypennews.com People & Lifestyles 29 FROM PIONEER STOCK GENE STONE — A GOOD LIFE

By Colleen Slater, KP News “We never went hungry (during the Depression),” says Stone. “We always Gene Stone, whose grandfather gave had plenty of good food. The only Key Peninsula its name, enjoys his people who had money were the post- Lakebay home, surrounded by memo- master and the mailman,” he says. ries of things he loves. Those who worked at the Navy yard or Stone, born in Colorado, moved to loggers had some money too, but Bremerton with his parents when he was weren’t all that well paid. 3. His father, Ernest, an auto mechanic His paternal grandparents, Edward in Colorado, came west with his family and Esther Stone, followed them to and brother to find work. He worked at Bremerton in 1920, and later to the the Navy yard awhile, then opened his peninsula. The senior Stone, a violin own garage plus a meat market in maker, was relatively new to the area, Manette. when he won the contest sponsored by The family moved to Lakebay in 1927. local businessmen to name the penin- Gene was in fifth grade, and attended sula. The shape on the map reminded the brand new school that now houses him of an old-fashioned key. He won the Key Peninsula Community Services. $25, and Aldy Visell took a cue from the He met his future wife there. winning name to call the local business Photo courtesy Gene Stone “She didn’t like me then,” he says, and area, at the crossroads of what was then Four generations of the Stone family in 1940 at Edward Stone’s Herron Road home. still seems surprised she married him. called Longbranch Highway and Left to right, back row: Edward, Esther, Harriet, Ernest; front row, Ada, Marilyn, Gene. The Stone family first lived near the Vaughn-Glencove Road, Key Center. head of Mayo Cove, then moved up the Gene Stone says everything was very hill near the highway. His father started clean on the peninsula. A plus for his Stone used to think life was pretty cook pretty good for a big crowd.” At a chicken ranch, but also had a cow, father, who recovered from respiratory tough, but looking back, thinks it was a one time he was head cook for 175 some pigs, and a large garden. problems he has had for many years. great place to grow up. people. “We had lots to do as kids. We weren’t After three years with the “CCCs,” he stressed for time,” he says, and adds, worked in Bremerton at the Navy ship- with a twinkle in his eyes, “We used to yard awhile, then cut brush and timber, swim naked in Lakebay.” and logged. He worked for Davidson Stone left school in 1934, before his Logging, Harm Van Slyke, and others. senior year at Vaughn. He wanted a job. He married Ada Sorenson, daughter He joined the “CCCs” (Civilian of Albert Sorenson, first RFD (Rural Conservation Corps, a project of Free Delivery) mail carrier for Lakebay. President Franklin D. Roosevelt, to help Albert Sorenson sold him 300 feet of people out during the Depression). waterfront. Stone’s home is partly “on Each payday he sent most of his money the cove” in a literal sense, with pilings home. He spent a summer doing rock supporting part of it. work on the road near Dosewallops, Ada took a Red Cross class for water then started cooking for the camp. safety instructor, along with Dulcie “I was kind of scrawny, and I think Schillinger. Both then taught swimming they felt sorry for me,” Stone says. “It and life-saving classes. Daughter Linda was hard work in the woods. I could was one of Schillinger’s students. “I think (Ada) taught half the kids on the peninsula to swim,” says Stone. He says the best memory of his life is of all the kids having fun in the water. Linda swam all day when she could, starting May 1, went home for supper, had her hair braided, and was out in the boat, rowing until dark. “Even if it was raining,” she says. Ada died four years ago. Linda and her sister, Marilyn, live in Tacoma. Stone, at 91, shows few gray hairs. His maternal grandfather, Harm, died at 98, with a full head of black hair. Both daughters seem to share those genes. Stone says he’s had a good life on the peninsula, and still likes living here. 30 Arts & Recreation www.keypennews.com • Key Peninsula News Local artists featured at TCC gallery By Rodika Tollefson, KP News Baroque Revival Exhibition everal Key Peninsula as well as Gig The exhibition will be on view at The Gallery at Tacoma Community College Harbor area artists are featured at through March 16. Gallery hours are 10 a.m.-5 p.m., Monday - Friday. Admission is S the Baroque Revival Exhibition free. The gallery is located on TCC’s main campus, 6501 S. 19th St., in Tacoma. that opened at the Tacoma Community Gig Harbor/Key Peninsula artists whose work is displayed are Adria Hanson, College campus in January. The exhibit, Melanie Johnson (Key Pen); Melinda Cox, Herb Hallberg (Gig Harbor) and Sheila which features 30 artists in a variety of Anderson (Fox Island). For information, call 460.4306 or visit www.tacomacc.edu. media, is the brainchild of Lakebay resi- dent Jennifer Olson-Rudenko, the gallery’s the University of Pennsylvania, and she participating artists have produced some director since March 2003. traveled to Spain three times as part of her intriguing works of art.” “The art on view in the exhibition research. “The baroque period in art lasted Olson-Rudenko has spent her entire reflects society, and allows us to consider from about 1580 through the 17th career working at art museums and art and produce a visual record of our time in century,” she wrote in her essay. “It was galleries around the country while also history,” Olson-Rudenko wrote in a narra- considered a Golden Age in art in France, teaching. “The most important thing you tive accompanying the exhibit. Italy, Spain and the Netherlands. Major can teach students is that you have to see art “Contemporary artists draw upon the historical events, including the (in person) to really appreciate it,” she said. historic record of past artistic movements. Reformation (1517), Counter Lake Holiday resident Melanie Johnson As we consider the art of the contemporary Reformation (1563) and Peace of is among the local artists whose work is world, we are reminded of Bernini, Westphalia (1648), shaped the production being showcased. Her digital photography Photo courtesy TCC Caravaggio, Rubens, van Ruisdael, Sáchez of art, which inspired the contemporary is focused on still life. Johnson received a “Faith” by Key Pen artist Adria Hanson is Cotán, and others who continue to influ- artists in this exhibition.” camera as a birthday present from her one of the artworks displayed at the ence new work.” She said she was able to select a variety of husband in 2000, so she could take photos Baroque Revival show at TCC. Olson-Rudenko, who holds a doctorate artists for the exhibit because baroque has at her daughter’s upcoming wedding. She degree in art history and also teaches art so many styles. “I wanted to have a show for taught herself by reading and experi- “I am very excited to have been appreciation classes, has a personal the community, and involve a lot of artists,” menting, and is now pursuing digital selected,” she said. “The gallery at TCC is interest in baroque. The topic of Spanish she said. “The call to artists for this show photography as a vocation (while currently very professional; it’s quite an honor to be Baroque art is part of her dissertation at was met with good response, and the working at TCC as well). selected.” February 2007 • www.keypennews.com 31 OBITUARY

Olive A.Williams Olive Williams was born in Tacoma to John and Hazel Paul on Jan. 27, 1913. She died Jan. 17, 2007. The Williams family spent much of Olive’s early years on McNeil Island, until the civilians were required to leave due to the prison. The family moved to Home, where Williams remained, raising her own family, until the death of her husband, Winston, in 1975. She then moved to Lakebay, and lived there until this past year when she moved to a rest home due to her failing health. She was preceded in death by her husband, brothers Cecil and Sydney Paul, sisters Sally Booth and Jaunita Paul, and great-grandson Zechariah West. Survivors include sons Robert (Katha) Neal and Dennis (Florine) Williams, daughter Merri (Kenneth )Lund, sister Dixie Bell, brother Stanley (Audrey) Paul, eight grandchildren, 12 great-grandchildren, and three great- great-grandchildren. She is also survived by numerous nieces and nephews. Services will be at a later date. 32 www.keypennews.com • Key Peninsula News

(From GEODUCK, Page 1) this section, the department is prohibited HB-1547 information from entering into any leases that would Washington, with full disclosure by permit the commercial aquaculture of To read the text of House Bill 1547, proposed researchers “of past, present, geoducks on state-owned aquatic lands and follow its progress through the and planned future personal or profes- associated with Puget Sound, including legislative system, go to Rep. Pat sional connections with the shellfish the Strait of Juan de Fuca, until one full Lantz’s Website at industry or public interest groups.” calendar year after the sea grant program http://hdc.leg.wa.gov/members/lantz. Among the mandated studies are an at the University of Washington reports At press time, public hearings were assessment to determine how “high to the Legislature the results of the expected during the first week of densities” of geoduck in previously wild studies required by section 1 of this act.” February. tracts alter species diversity, and the The bill further calls for each new Contact Rep. Lantz: potential for cultured stock to put wild proposed lease (public and private) to 438A Legislative Bldg. stock at risk. Lantz’s bill asks for science obtain a conditional use permit from the PO Box 40600 to study the capacity of intertidal lands to Department of Ecology; it requires addi- Olympia, WA 98504-0600 carry the large-scale monoculture farms tional restrictions on setbacks, buffers, (360) 786-7964 the industry intends to implement. The and habitat for state and federal endan- [email protected] legislation also carries a mandate for gered species. Included is also a provision growers to post a bond equal to the cost for permit revocation for geoduck opera- of cleanup, as opposed to the tions out of compliance. The bill first programs that provide financial incen- Department of Natural Resources goes to the House Puget Sound tives to private tideland owners for proposal of twice the amount of the lease Committee for hearings, and must secure Photo by Chris Fitzgerald leaving their tidelands in a natural on state lands, an amount averaging funding from the Appropriations Remnants of a geoduck farming operation state.” The Washington Council of $1,000 per year per leased site, at most. Committee. are seen at Joemma Beach State Park Trout Unlimited passed Council The bill calls for all studies to be Lantz says the bill addresses the issue of about a month after December’s storm. Resolution 06-1 in November, saying, completed and findings reported to the compliance, county by county, and Geoduck farms officials have said they “…The state Department of Natural Legislature by 2013, with annual updates provides a minimum standard — a site- clean up the beaches around their farms resources has declined to perform a on study progress in the interim. Most specific conditional use permit from on a weekly basis. Programmatic Environmental Impact importantly, the bill places a moratorium DOE for each new lease. “The (shellfish) Study to determine the long-term on state tideland leases. It reads: “Except industry’s intention was to obtain one effects of (geoduck farming) activity, for contracts that have had a request for (blanket) permit to grow geoduck of all derelict or lost shellfish aquaculture declaring it unnecessary. The agency offer issued prior to the effective date of anywhere; (armed with that), they would equipment and materials.” PSI’s report instead intends, through adaptive not be subject to scrutiny,” she said, also calls for research, specifically “inte- management, to correct any harm Update on permits adding that Mason County, for instance, grated pest management” of such species observed only after it has been discov- has no permit requirements at this time. as red rock crab, Dungeness crab, diving ered. The scientific research to deter- Two geoduck farming application “This bill is an attempt to give counties ducks, gull, and crows, among others. mine the long-term impacts of such permits on private tidelands, initiated the opportunity to use the minimum Just as Lantz’s bill, this report is activity is lacking and no formal peer by Taylor Shellfish Farms in the Vaughn application-by-application, site-by-site concerned with “optimal densities for reviewed studies have been completed. Bay area (SD55-05 and SD53-05), were specific standard, and impose their own beach seeding... in regard to sustaining While there have been limited studies approved and on appeal, as reported in regulations in addition,” she said. The production and beach condition conducted by the (shellfish) industry the January KP News. On Jan. 19, they bill, if passed, will supersede DNR’s plan (particularly in… geoduck).” The docu- and some informal investigation by were reconsidered by Terrence to lease 25 acres of public tidelands per ment goes on to say that with potential academicians… the exact long-term McCarthy, Pierce County deputy year for the remaining nine years of the regulatory control of geoduck seeding, impact on the sensitive Puget Sound hearing examiner. He upheld the stan- proposed 10-year leasing cycle. “We can the density issue could “move to a near-shore environment is unknown.” dard 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday tell DNR what they can do with public higher priority as the geoduck grow-out According to Lantz, her intention in through Friday, with no working holi- lands,” Lantz said. “We can’t tell private industry develops.” The report crafting HB-1547 is to provide clear days, operation for harvesting. The landowners what they can do, but we can concludes that, “It is possible for pathways for responsible aquaculture. company had sought the ability to regulate them.” Washington growers to make rapid The positions of nearly every organiza- harvest at night, using lights and oper- Last fall, the shellfish industry’s Pacific advancements in subtidal geoduck tion concerned about the rapid, unfet- ating equipment. Shellfish Institute released its “West Coast culture… Washington growers possess tered growth of this young aquaculture McCarthy wrote, “Waking up individ- Shellfish Research and Education 2015 the infrastructure to begin… (and) is echoed in the Trout Unlimited docu- uals at all times of the night… intensi- Goals and Priorities” and “Geoduck Clam geoduck seed supply is not limited…” ment where it reads: “Aquaculture fies a built-in conflict… time limitations Research and Management” documents. HB-1547, responds to the message management within Washington state is are used to minimize conflicts between They acknowledge that “increasingly, the among diverse environmental groups at diffused among at least five separate two incompatible uses, that of noisy general population is demanding that local, regional and national levels. In an agencies, along with federal and tribal commercial farming, and the quiet resi- forests, riparian areas, beaches and other email to the Henderson Bay Shoreline agencies, that are subject to manage- dential life in the rural area.” wildlife habitats be preserved and Association, Becky Goldburg, a repre- ment procedures, processes and rules He denied two permit conditions the enhanced.” The research document sentative of the nationally-known that are often conflicting and confusing county sought: a final site plan, and states that cultured shellfish are an inte- Environmental Defense Council, writes, to agency managers, the industry, and yearly compliance status reports. gral part of the marine ecosystem, and “…There are legitimate issues about the general public. This diffused system McCarthy dismissed Taylor Shellfish’s addresses industry debris issues with this where mollusk farms are sited, how big of aquaculture management has statement that he did not have solution: “Expand participation with they should be and how farming activi- contributed to the uncertainty and “authority to review” operations and marine-focused organizations (such as ties are conducted.” People for Puget confusion in permitting and leasing for extended that review period from three tribes, environmental groups, marine Sound, a Seattle-based organization, near-shore geoduck activities and, in to five years. resource committees) in beach cleanups issued an “Intertidal Geoduck Policy,” this instance, has hi-lighted the need for throughout Puget Sound, most notably to which advocates regulation of geoduck a more comprehensive, efficient and retrieve and recycle or properly dispose aquaculture, and “open space taxation centralized management system.” February 2007 • www.keypennews.com 33 KP shorelines may see landscape change

By Chris Fitzgerald, KP News To view a DOH Commercial & Recreational Shellfish Areas map, visit www.keypen- permitting, planting, etc. For those news.com. The map is in color and, with the upcoming classifications of the east issues, he said, people need to look to The classification that opens the shoreline of the entire Key Peninsula to “approved” commercial shellfish farming is the Department of Ecology, DNR, or entire east side of Case Inlet from Rocky outdated. Find Rocky Bay on the map, and follow the gray-colored shoreline all the Fish and Wildlife. Woolrich admited Bay to Longbranch, including Vaughn way down to Longbranch, including Herron Island. All the gray areas, by spring, will that “commercial growers can get ahead Bay and Dutcher’s Cove, to commercial be green. This is the color signifying tidelands to minus-70 feet, both public and of us,” and that his staff primarily looks shellfish farming, is scheduled to be private, are “approved” for commercial shellfish cultivation and harvest. for three conditions: chemical contami- complete by spring of this year, nation, biotoxins, and oily spills. according to Bob Woolrich, manager of In response to a question about South growing Areas for the Office of Shellfish Puget Sound areas (Totten Inlet and and Water Protection of the state phytoplankton and nutrients, necessary mention the industry practice of Zangle Cove) that environmental Department of Health (DOH). On the resources for successful aquaculture removing all wild geoduck, and other groups claim to have been polluted west side of the peninsula on a “half- geoduck farming. The largest commer- living species, from the site of a new primarily by an overabundance of mile or so” stretch just south of Minter cial shellfish grower/processor in the farm prior to “planting.” monoculture farming, Woolrich Bay, Woolrich indicated Minterbrook state, Taylor Shellfish, is located within Cathy Barker at DOH said that, about replied, “Pollution of water is another Oyster has asked for additional that region, in Shelton. five years ago, Taylor Shellfish and agency’s problem unless it affects approved classification for beaches The report notes the “proximity to Seattle Shellfish requested the Case human health. Environmental impacts adjoining those they already farm; current culture operations… reduces Inlet tidelands, which were then of affecting fish and shellfish are not Woolrich says this is the only “west side” travel time and cost by eliminating addi- “unclassified,” to be classified issues DOH looks at. People expect classification request at this time. tional infrastructure in other areas.” “approved” for shellfish production. geoducks and oysters to be alive when A recently released Geoduck Clam South Puget Sound Department of Additionally, Woolrich said about two purchased; if the shellfish die, people Research and Management report by Natural Resources-owned tidelands are years ago, he was also asked by the will not buy them, so it’s not a DOH Pacific Shellfish Institute identifies the cited as holding “promising characteris- Puyallup Tribes to open Vaughn Bay problem.” South Puget Sound region to be of tics.” In addition, the document says, specifically for commercial harvest. The classification of the entire east special interest to geoduck farmers “South Puget Sound also has substantial The process of taking unclassified shoreline of Case Inlet coincides with at because of its water clarity and abun- concentrations of wild geoduck — tidelands to one of several classifica- least two geoduck application permits dance of other shellfish. Other healthy, (again) a promising characteristic for tions takes the DOH from two to five that have been approved, appealed, and growing species indicate abundant farm siting.” The report does not years. It begins with 30 water samples reconsidered (SD55-05 and SD53-55) in taken over several years in all weather, Vaughn Bay, scheduled for “approved” seasons, and tide levels. A shoreline classification by spring. Without the survey is done to “look at the shoreline classification to “approved” status, very carefully for any pollution sources.” geoduck farmers can plant and cultivate He cited several examples of pollution, the clams, but not harvest them, as such as failed septic tanks, extraordi- harvesting is controlled by the DOH. nary numbers of wildlife, livestock, and Regardless of whether growers plan to boating activities. After requirements plant on either private or DNR tide- for a desired classification have been lands, they are required to comply with met and the area is classified, Woolrich DOH classification standards for said the DOH takes water samples six harvest. times per year, “tries to” look at each site every three years, and is mandated to “scrutinize the site” every 12 years. Woolrich stressed the DOH has a Geoducks, anyone? narrow focus and is only concerned with Bob Downen, a Longbranch resident and controls the harvest of shellfish, not for many years, wonders where the geoducks went. He says people used to sell them at roadside stands all down the peninsula. “None of the supermarkets carry it; the clerks don’t even know what geoducks are,” he said. “Johnny’s Seafood Market in Tacoma referred me to the Asian markets.” He remembers when the clam sold for 25 cents a pound, and says he “can’t get much enthusiasm (for all the farming) when geoduck isn’t even avail- able for the U.S. public to purchase.” Downen has no objection to farming, as long as “it’s done in a logical, good cyclical way with regulations that don’t destroy the sea as a resource.” 34 www.keypennews.com • Key Peninsula News

(From ICE, Page 1) seagull walking around on the ice, but Grandpa Don Mills told them it was 57 most of the ducks and seagulls were out on years ago when the bay had that much ice under the ice and made it move.” the sandspit. on it. The water from the paddles froze before The children knew they had to be Both children were ready to go out the the drops landed. They could see the path careful in the canoe so it didn’t tip, and if following day if the “Vaughn Bay ice sheet,” they made through the ice. Kelson they fell in and went under the ice, they as their dad called it, remained intact. reached out with a boat hook to smash a would need to break the ice. “Take your “It was the best winter adventure ever,” hole in the ice, then stuck the hook into personal flotation device if you go,” Kelson said. the hole to pull the boat ahead. They saw Mackenzie advised. seashells frozen in the ice, and sticks half- After the tide went out and left ice on Matthew, Kelson, with a boat hook, submerged that Matthew said “looked like the beach, “it looked like a bunch of panes Mackenzie, and Lisa Mills in their canoe. frozen wooly mammoths.” They watched a of glass,” according to Kelson. Photo courtesy Judy Mills CLASSIFIEDS Debbie’s Office Aide HELP WANTED: Adorable Female English Bulldog. 1st shot, Bookkeeping and Proofreading Services: KP Lions Club needs members to continue wormed, Vaccinated, a yr. health Guarantee 253-884-6622 public service programs. Contact Hugh McMillan cert. 18 wks, potty trained/housebroken. 884-3319 or any other member. Contact David at [email protected] regarding Lucy. For all your residential real estate needs contact Fred Angus at Keller Williams Realty WATKINS PRODUCTS are available, 253-853-2584. Please see ad on page 11. call Marvin and Myrtle Keizur at Male and female English Bulldog for imme- 884-3566. VISA/MC diate adoption. AKC Reg, health-100%, dewormed, shot: 1st shots, vaccinated. Both HOME FEED & GROCERY weigh: 15-16 lbs, Age - 11 wks, colors: 1809 KPN, Home. 884-2321 Event Rental: The beautiful Longbranch Brown/White. Raised in a loving home. $600 each (shipping included anywhere). If inter- Open 8 AM - 10 PM Improvement Club is a great place for ested, 206-309-4742 (leave msg.) and also Holidays 10 AM - 6 PM reunions, weddings & parties. Reasonable email asap: [email protected]. rates. Call rental mgr. @ 253-884-6022.

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place an ad. [email protected] Call 884-4699 to February 2007 • www.keypennews.com 35 Place your business card in this advertising directory. Call 884-4699. 36 www.keypennews.com • Key Peninsula News Out & About To see more Out & About photos, visit our Website at www.keypennews.com and follow the Photo Gallery link. See more of your neighbors out and about, Key Peninsula scenes and happen- ings.The online gallery features only Website exclusive photos!

Key Peninsula Middle School students in the beginning band class, directed by music teacher Meg Mansfield, perform in their very first public concert for a packed audience of parents in January. With most of them having only played their instruments for four months, the 90 members of the band did an outstanding job. Photo by Rodika Tollefson

Above, friends and family members are cleaning up damage caused by the December windstorm at a Filucy Bay home. Trees from the neighbors’ property fell on top of the home of Chuck and Norma-Jean Gibson, causing $30,000 in damages.The couple moved into the five-year-old home just last spring. “It amazes me that we never thought to look at our neighbors’ trees and discuss the potential for such Many Key Pen residents enjoyed damage,” Norma-Jean said. “Dialogue themselves when the snow covered should be comfortably open between neigh- the peninsula in January, including bors in such areas where weather/tree these dogs (above) and these Lake conditions can take such a toll.” Minterwood kids (left). For more Photo courtesy Norma-Jean Gibson snow day photos, visit our online gallery at www.keypennews.com. Just before December’s wind storm wiped Photos by Karen Hale and Kristen Pierce out power,Vaughn Elementary held its Below, Kurt Self, a parent volunteer, annual “Marsha Iverson Books for Special helps out at the Key Peninsula Readers” program in the school’s library. Middle School student store. The Scads of excited kids scooped up books store is open during the lunch hour from tables set up for each class and need and honor time and all proceeds go category, then gathered near the stairway to the PTSA. to share with classmates the wonders of Photo by Mindi LaRose these special gifts. Pictured here, fourth grade students Daysen Warram and Gabe Bellamy and second grader Shiann Hendershot excitedly share their “very own books.” Photo by Hugh McMillan A call to our readers! The Key Peninsula News would like Right, Key Pen resident Ty Hardin joins to compile a gallery of beautiful volunteer mom Shana Lutz sharing a book scenic shots from around the Key with pre-schoolers Cameron Lutz and Jacob Peninsula. Share your favorite Snarr during the Evergreen Elementary photos with us! We will publish them Reading is FUNdamental event, planned in our online gallery, and choose our three times a year. Photo by Hugh McMillan favorites for print publication. Email photos to [email protected].