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Shelton Mason County Journal
Shelton, Washington
May 17, 2007     Shelton Mason County Journal
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May 17, 2007
 
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Proud of Wightman Board has a duty Editor, The Herald: Calling tbr Glenn Landram's resignation from the North Mason school board by board member Art Wightman was, in my opinion, an excellent move. Mr. Wightman gave voice, on re- cord, to objections regarding Glenn's overstepping the boundaries of" his authority on numerous occasions. Those of us who have remained silent have, by our silence, given approval to these inappropriate ac- tions. It is necessary we now step up and give voice, oral and written to demonstrate that our community will not be subjected to heavy-hand- ed authoritarian systems of control by self-serving individuals. If the board president chooses not to resign, our community will be obliged to launch an all-out cam- paign to remove him through the election process before the end of year 2007. His methods have cost our school systems the loss of a number of excellent educators and administrators. It is our responsi- bility to speak up with words and votes. Estelle M. Foster Belfair Editor, The Herald: It seems it is again time to try to explain the role of the North Mason school board and the North Mason Education Association, aka the teach- ers' union. The school board is hired by the taxpayers to run the school district. The teach- ers' union is here to get more money for the teachers and, in turn, more money for those who run the union. The school board is responsible to the tax- payers. The teachers and all Trouble in Grapeview Editor, The Herald: Over the last several months there have been many letters to the editor regarding serious problems within the Grapeview community which have adversely affected fire district personnel. At this time I make no attempt to exacerbate the problems or crisis. My intent is only to state what I huve witnessed while in the district building, during fire commissioner meetings and the court hearing, which I have veri- fied through ()pen public records including minutes and audio re- cordings. In their letters published on April 19 and May 10, commission- er Stark and citizen Stan Walster, respectively, made many asser- tions with which I as a private citizen, active supporter of' the fire district and a tbrmer vice presi- dent of the Grapeview Commu- nity Association, disagree. I found both Diane Hartley's and Peg Ry- an's April 12 letters regarding the special meeting to be accurate. I was present when, because of repeated violations of the posted Public Code of Conduct, our fire chief asked the citizen to leave the fire district premises. He re- fused and dared the chief to call the sheriff to have him removed. She called, and out of concern for the chief, several other citizens who were present, stayed. The responding deputy arrived, and he called for backup due to the citizen's agitated and belligerent behavior, and refusal to leave. Fi- nally the deputy gave the citizen an ultimatum to leave or fhce ar- rest. The citizen challenged the officer to arrest him. With much coaxing from a friend and that of the patient officers, he did leave. The deputy advised the chief to seek a Temporary Restraining Order (TRO) for everyone's per- sonal safety. The TRO was filed and granted. During the September 11, 2006 court hearing on the request for a permanent restraining order, sev- eral citizens did testify on behalf of the chief and the citizen. Most no- tably, Commissioner Fugere testi- fied on behalf of the citizen. His testimony creates a problem, first as an employer of the victim of ha- rassment, and second as a sitting commissioner who has legislative authority over employment and/or any disciplinary action. This is a conflict of interest and a violation of state statute. Commissioner Stark rt, lbrs to the TRO as being wtcated. It was not vacated. Judge Victoria Meadows heard the case to rule on whether the TRO would become permanent. The judge ruled that the burden of proof had not been met, and dismissed the request with prejudice, stating "... but may be reopened if any future acts of harassment occur." Com- missioner Stark states that the citizen "voluntarily" stayed away from the district premises. How- ever, by written direction of the commission's attorney, his access had been limited only to the Hor- ton Community Hall and only to attend open public meetings .and the meetings and events of the Grapeview Community Associa- tion. While on district premises I have witnessed several inci- dents when the citizen's behav- ior amounted to harassment and bullying, not only of our chief, but also department staff, volunteer firefighters and to members of the public. Had the citizen changed his behavior when asked to, or had the commissioners supported the chief' instead of their friend, our community would not have gone through this turmoil. The commis- sioners have been slow to react or have not taken any action at all in the matter, which has resulted in these negative consequences. In the main body,0f his let- ter, commissioner Stark unfairly leaves a lot at our chiefs door. In his letter, Mr. Walster does the very thing he wants others to stop, which is "stirring the pile." Why do the commissioners, Mr. Wal- ster and others choose to honor the perpetrator and vilify the vic- tim? Our chief consistently insists on keeping the department a safe, harassment-free and enjoyable place to work and gather for staff, volunteers and the public. This also should be a paramount tom- mitment of our commissioners. Apparently Mr. Walster is not aware that expecting a public of- ficial to enter into a dispute reso- lution agreement with a citizen is highly irregular. To call a special meeting solely for that purpose within a week of a regularly sched- uled meeting is a waste of public funds. The commission chair's right to call a special meeting is not in question. Although commis- sioner Stark was guided by the board's attorney throughout the special meeting, he did not call for a motion to approve the agreement and the signatures of the commis- sioners before he adjourned the meeting. After adjournment, the agreement was then hastily ap- proved and signed by the commis- sioners and the citizen stepped for- ward to sign it. Immediately after signing the agreement he took the microphone despite protests from the commissioners, his wife and others and violated the agreement by speaking to the chief and chal- lenging her to tell him "...What is the worst thing I have ever done to you?" All of the discord is re- corded on the district audio tape of the meeting. The agreement which had been read and signed, specifically states that he is not to speak to the chief unless it is an emergency. The commission took no action and at their next regu- lar meeting defended their lack of action by stating that the chief had not submitted a written com- plaint with names of witnesses. They themselves were witnesses and should have taken immediate action. How incredulous! Mr. Walster demeans the chief by calling her "Chief Petty." Such an insult is not deserved by a woman who has been recognized throughout the community and by her peers for her exceptional capability, integrity and leader- ship. Throughout this ordeal she has acted with civility and grace. It is clear that the commission- ers do not understand and/or ac- cept laws related to employment practices and discrimination law based on gerider. Bob Allen Grapeview S-rEP MEETI NGS People dealing with alcohol is- sues may note the following meetings. Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) 42 Old Belfair Highway Sunday: 9 a.m., noon, 5 p.m. Monday: noon, 7:30 p.m. Tuesday: noon, 7 p.m. Step Study, Legacy Wednesday: noon, 7:30 p.m. Thursday: noon, 7:30 p.m. Big Book study Friday: noon Step study, 7 p.m. for women, 9 p.m. candlelight. Saturday: 9 a.m., noon, 7:30 p.m. speaker meeting. A potluck is held at 6:30 p.m. on the last Saturday of every month. Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) Allyn Historic Church P,O. Box 250, Belfair, Washington 98528 Telephone 275-6680 Belfalr office open 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday News and advertising copy deadline noon Mondays. For your convenience there is a mall slot by the door for copy. Office located in the Log Plaza. KEVAN MOORE ..................................................................... Editor HARVEY MORRIS ........................................ Advertising Manager LIZ CASE .............................................. Office Manager/Reporter Office Telephone (360) 275-6680 A set,on of The Shelton-Mason County Journal serving as the voice of Belfair, Allyn*rapevtew, Tahuya, Mason Lake, South Shore, North Shore and Victor. uil State Route 3, Allyn Sunday: 7 p.m. Survivors Friday: 7 p.m. Men's Stag, Big Book study Al-Anon 42 Old Belfair Highway Monday: 7:30 p.m. Narcotics Anonymous Fiesta Restaurant 23730 NE State Route 3, Belfair Wednesday: 6 p.m. More information on AA is available at 275-9868 or 275- 4395. For A1-Anon, call 275-3833; and for Narcotics Anonymous, call 432-0542 or 731-5051. Serving anyone living or working in Mason or Gno's Harbor Count. 526 W. Cedar St., Shelton 2948 Olympic Hwy. N., Shelton 426-9701 www.ourcu.com Page 2 - Belfair Herald section of the Shelton-Mason County Journal -Thursday, May 17, 2007 school employees are respon- sible to the school board. The teachers' union is supposed to be responsible to its mem- bers, but in reality this might be questionable. Why is this so hard to understand? The endless battle between the union and a part of the school board is a self-destruc- tive waste of time. As a taxpay- er, I object. Why aren't we con- cerned about lousy test scores? And ira certain number of stu- dents can't pass basic math, science, reading and writing in state tests, why do they get diplomas just for occupying a seat for 12 years? A person would have to be blind not to see major reforms must be made in our education- al system. And enough studies have been made to understand more money is not the answer. Roughly 85 percent of school expenses is for salaries and wages. More money does not a good teacher make. It is time ibr the district to start from square one and ignore edu- cational turf wars. Keep the teachers who produce and fire the teachers who do not. Teach hard-core subjects, not feel- good garbage. We cannot just give up and keep giving the current high-school diplomas that in many cases are just meaningless pieces of paper. John Stockler Belfair Public Hearing Notice . The Board of Directors of the GrapeV School District will hold a public hearing; part of the study session on Tuesday M 22, 2007 at 6:00 p.m. to take public com with regard to the 1-728 expenditure platt the 2007-08 school year budget The hea will be held in the library at 822 E M Benson Road, Grapeview, WA 98546.5/17tl Heavy Equipment Autos- Trucks- Boat00 Antiques & Collectible00 Tools PI Preview: May 18, I 0 a.m. until 4 and Sat. 8 a.m. To Be Held At." Auction Acres _ 8398 Spring Creek Rd. $E Pt. Orchard,WA Auction Schedule 9 a.m.: Shop & Tools 10 a.m.: Trees & ShrubS; F owers; Mowers I I I a.m.: Equip & Vehicles: DTRII I dozer (subject to the approval¢l the high bid); 90 Cat 816B; 86 GI" I pumper; 86 Ford 5 yd; 00 Ford I Expd; (3) 97 Chev S 10; 75+ M0rd I I I a.m.: Stove Shop: New stOVeS; Misc. 12:30- I p.m.: Antiques; Furniture; Household; Collectibles For listing & more information se¢ www.stokesauction.Con Buyer's premium in effect Sale managed by STOKES AUCTION Boardman Orwiler Inc Lic #2059 8398 Spring Creek Rd. SE, Port Orchard,WA 98367 I -(866)-273-8102 & LANDSCAP. E SUPPLY..INC00:il Topsoil * Bark * Mulches * Fill Dirt Rockery Rock * Crashed Rock Washed I Land Clearing * Free Estimates * Certified Scales • Accepting Stumps, Brush and Concrete Belfair 275-3465 Mon.-Fri.: 7 '00 TOYOTA TACOMA Extra cab, loaded, like new, tool box $7,777 CROWN AUTO SALES Next to Shell NE 23791 Hwy. 3 Belfair 360-277-3028 See Bob, Mark or Jackie THANKS I Forl; I YearS • FREE WARRANTY • "O" INTEREST • 32-POINT SAFETY CHECK • NO or BAD CREDIT "OK" • GOOD Leather, IMMACULATE, loaded Quality companies at the prices you need! Come in and see Chris Ladncr, Artemia Settle, and our team of insurance professionals for all your insurance needs! A .S .I Phone : (360) 277-5300 • Toll Free: 800-633-4848 . . : ,, ,: t'1 N.E. Old Belfair Hwy., Beltir, WA 98528 Proud of Wightman Board has a duty Editor, The Herald: Calling tbr Glenn Landram's resignation from the North Mason school board by board member Art Wightman was, in my opinion, an excellent move. Mr. Wightman gave voice, on re- cord, to objections regarding Glenn's overstepping the boundaries of" his authority on numerous occasions. Those of us who have remained silent have, by our silence, given approval to these inappropriate ac- tions. It is necessary we now step up and give voice, oral and written to demonstrate that our community will not be subjected to heavy-hand- ed authoritarian systems of control by self-serving individuals. If the board president chooses not to resign, our community will be obliged to launch an all-out cam- paign to remove him through the election process before the end of year 2007. His methods have cost our school systems the loss of a number of excellent educators and administrators. It is our responsi- bility to speak up with words and votes. Estelle M. Foster Belfair Editor, The Herald: It seems it is again time to try to explain the role of the North Mason school board and the North Mason Education Association, aka the teach- ers' union. The school board is hired by the taxpayers to run the school district. The teach- ers' union is here to get more money for the teachers and, in turn, more money for those who run the union. The school board is responsible to the tax- payers. The teachers and all Trouble in Grapeview Editor, The Herald: Over the last several months there have been many letters to the editor regarding serious problems within the Grapeview community which have adversely affected fire district personnel. At this time I make no attempt to exacerbate the problems or crisis. My intent is only to state what I huve witnessed while in the district building, during fire commissioner meetings and the court hearing, which I have veri- fied through ()pen public records including minutes and audio re- cordings. In their letters published on April 19 and May 10, commission- er Stark and citizen Stan Walster, respectively, made many asser- tions with which I as a private citizen, active supporter of' the fire district and a tbrmer vice presi- dent of the Grapeview Commu- nity Association, disagree. I found both Diane Hartley's and Peg Ry- an's April 12 letters regarding the special meeting to be accurate. I was present when, because of repeated violations of the posted Public Code of Conduct, our fire chief asked the citizen to leave the fire district premises. He re- fused and dared the chief to call the sheriff to have him removed. She called, and out of concern for the chief, several other citizens who were present, stayed. The responding deputy arrived, and he called for backup due to the citizen's agitated and belligerent behavior, and refusal to leave. Fi- nally the deputy gave the citizen an ultimatum to leave or fhce ar- rest. The citizen challenged the officer to arrest him. With much coaxing from a friend and that of the patient officers, he did leave. The deputy advised the chief to seek a Temporary Restraining Order (TRO) for everyone's per- sonal safety. The TRO was filed and granted. During the September 11, 2006 court hearing on the request for a permanent restraining order, sev- eral citizens did testify on behalf of the chief and the citizen. Most no- tably, Commissioner Fugere testi- fied on behalf of the citizen. His testimony creates a problem, first as an employer of the victim of ha- rassment, and second as a sitting commissioner who has legislative authority over employment and/or any disciplinary action. This is a conflict of interest and a violation of state statute. Commissioner Stark rt, lbrs to the TRO as being wtcated. It was not vacated. Judge Victoria Meadows heard the case to rule on whether the TRO would become permanent. The judge ruled that the burden of proof had not been met, and dismissed the request with prejudice, stating "... but may be reopened if any future acts of harassment occur." Com- missioner Stark states that the citizen "voluntarily" stayed away from the district premises. How- ever, by written direction of the commission's attorney, his access had been limited only to the Hor- ton Community Hall and only to attend open public meetings .and the meetings and events of the Grapeview Community Associa- tion. While on district premises I have witnessed several inci- dents when the citizen's behav- ior amounted to harassment and bullying, not only of our chief, but also department staff, volunteer firefighters and to members of the public. Had the citizen changed his behavior when asked to, or had the commissioners supported the chief' instead of their friend, our community would not have gone through this turmoil. The commis- sioners have been slow to react or have not taken any action at all in the matter, which has resulted in these negative consequences. In the main body,0f his let- ter, commissioner Stark unfairly leaves a lot at our chiefs door. In his letter, Mr. Walster does the very thing he wants others to stop, which is "stirring the pile." Why do the commissioners, Mr. Wal- ster and others choose to honor the perpetrator and vilify the vic- tim? Our chief consistently insists on keeping the department a safe, harassment-free and enjoyable place to work and gather for staff, volunteers and the public. This also should be a paramount tom- mitment of our commissioners. Apparently Mr. Walster is not aware that expecting a public of- ficial to enter into a dispute reso- lution agreement with a citizen is highly irregular. To call a special meeting solely for that purpose within a week of a regularly sched- uled meeting is a waste of public funds. The commission chair's right to call a special meeting is not in question. Although commis- sioner Stark was guided by the board's attorney throughout the special meeting, he did not call for a motion to approve the agreement and the signatures of the commis- sioners before he adjourned the meeting. After adjournment, the agreement was then hastily ap- proved and signed by the commis- sioners and the citizen stepped for- ward to sign it. Immediately after signing the agreement he took the microphone despite protests from the commissioners, his wife and others and violated the agreement by speaking to the chief and chal- lenging her to tell him "...What is the worst thing I have ever done to you?" All of the discord is re- corded on the district audio tape of the meeting. The agreement which had been read and signed, specifically states that he is not to speak to the chief unless it is an emergency. The commission took no action and at their next regu- lar meeting defended their lack of action by stating that the chief had not submitted a written com- plaint with names of witnesses. They themselves were witnesses and should have taken immediate action. How incredulous! Mr. Walster demeans the chief by calling her "Chief Petty." Such an insult is not deserved by a woman who has been recognized throughout the community and by her peers for her exceptional capability, integrity and leader- ship. Throughout this ordeal she has acted with civility and grace. It is clear that the commission- ers do not understand and/or ac- cept laws related to employment practices and discrimination law based on gerider. Bob Allen Grapeview S-rEP MEETI NGS People dealing with alcohol is- sues may note the following meetings. Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) 42 Old Belfair Highway Sunday: 9 a.m., noon, 5 p.m. Monday: noon, 7:30 p.m. Tuesday: noon, 7 p.m. Step Study, Legacy Wednesday: noon, 7:30 p.m. Thursday: noon, 7:30 p.m. Big Book study Friday: noon Step study, 7 p.m. for women, 9 p.m. candlelight. Saturday: 9 a.m., noon, 7:30 p.m. speaker meeting. A potluck is held at 6:30 p.m. on the last Saturday of every month. Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) Allyn Historic Church P,O. Box 250, Belfair, Washington 98528 Telephone 275-6680 Belfalr office open 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday News and advertising copy deadline noon Mondays. For your convenience there is a mall slot by the door for copy. Office located in the Log Plaza. KEVAN MOORE ..................................................................... Editor HARVEY MORRIS ........................................ Advertising Manager LIZ CASE .............................................. Office Manager/Reporter Office Telephone (360) 275-6680 A set,on of The Shelton-Mason County Journal serving as the voice of Belfair, Allyn*rapevtew, Tahuya, Mason Lake, South Shore, North Shore and Victor. uil State Route 3, Allyn Sunday: 7 p.m. Survivors Friday: 7 p.m. Men's Stag, Big Book study Al-Anon 42 Old Belfair Highway Monday: 7:30 p.m. Narcotics Anonymous Fiesta Restaurant 23730 NE State Route 3, Belfair Wednesday: 6 p.m. More information on AA is available at 275-9868 or 275- 4395. For A1-Anon, call 275-3833; and for Narcotics Anonymous, call 432-0542 or 731-5051. Serving anyone living or working in Mason or Gno's Harbor Count. 526 W. Cedar St., Shelton 2948 Olympic Hwy. N., Shelton 426-9701 www.ourcu.com Page 2 - Belfair Herald section of the Shelton-Mason County Journal -Thursday, May 17, 2007 school employees are respon- sible to the school board. The teachers' union is supposed to be responsible to its mem- bers, but in reality this might be questionable. Why is this so hard to understand? The endless battle between the union and a part of the school board is a self-destruc- tive waste of time. As a taxpay- er, I object. Why aren't we con- cerned about lousy test scores? And ira certain number of stu- dents can't pass basic math, science, reading and writing in state tests, why do they get diplomas just for occupying a seat for 12 years? A person would have to be blind not to see major reforms must be made in our education- al system. And enough studies have been made to understand more money is not the answer. Roughly 85 percent of school expenses is for salaries and wages. More money does not a good teacher make. It is time ibr the district to start from square one and ignore edu- cational turf wars. Keep the teachers who produce and fire the teachers who do not. Teach hard-core subjects, not feel- good garbage. We cannot just give up and keep giving the current high-school diplomas that in many cases are just meaningless pieces of paper. John Stockler Belfair Public Hearing Notice . The Board of Directors of the GrapeV School District will hold a public hearing; part of the study session on Tuesday M 22, 2007 at 6:00 p.m. to take public com with regard to the 1-728 expenditure platt the 2007-08 school year budget The hea will be held in the library at 822 E M Benson Road, Grapeview, WA 98546.5/17tl Heavy Equipment Autos- Trucks- Boat00 Antiques & Collectible00 Tools PI Preview: May 18, I 0 a.m. until 4 and Sat. 8 a.m. To Be Held At." Auction Acres _ 8398 Spring Creek Rd. $E Pt. Orchard,WA Auction Schedule 9 a.m.: Shop & Tools 10 a.m.: Trees & ShrubS; F owers; Mowers I I I a.m.: Equip & Vehicles: DTRII I dozer (subject to the approval¢l the high bid); 90 Cat 816B; 86 GI" I pumper; 86 Ford 5 yd; 00 Ford I Expd; (3) 97 Chev S 10; 75+ M0rd I I I a.m.: Stove Shop: New stOVeS; Misc. 12:30- I p.m.: Antiques; Furniture; Household; Collectibles For listing & more information se¢ www.stokesauction.Con Buyer's premium in effect Sale managed by STOKES AUCTION Boardman Orwiler Inc Lic #2059 8398 Spring Creek Rd. SE, Port Orchard,WA 98367 I -(866)-273-8102 & LANDSCAP. E SUPPLY..INC00:il Topsoil * Bark * Mulches * Fill Dirt Rockery Rock * Crashed Rock Washed I Land Clearing * Free Estimates * Certified Scales • Accepting Stumps, Brush and Concrete Belfair 275-3465 Mon.-Fri.: 7 '00 TOYOTA TACOMA Extra cab, loaded, like new, tool box $7,777 CROWN AUTO SALES Next to Shell NE 23791 Hwy. 3 Belfair 360-277-3028 See Bob, Mark or Jackie THANKS I Forl; I YearS • FREE WARRANTY • "O" INTEREST • 32-POINT SAFETY CHECK • NO or BAD CREDIT "OK" • GOOD Leather, IMMACULATE, loaded Quality companies at the prices you need! Come in and see Chris Ladncr, Artemia Settle, and our team of insurance professionals for all your insurance needs! A .S .I Phone : (360) 277-5300 • Toll Free: 800-633-4848 . . : ,, ,: t'1 N.E. Old Belfair Hwy., Beltir, WA 98528