Stories for January 11, 2012

So. Ore. neighborhood resists police radio tower

MEDFORD, Ore. (AP) -- The city of Medford says it is close to a compromise with a group of irate residents who say a new police communications tower could damage home prices in the area.

Portland auditor says crime DNA testing too slow

PORTLAND, Ore. (AP) -- The Portland city auditor says the state crime lab is too slow in testing DNA samples submitted by police in criminal investigations.

Cyclist Basso will compete in Giro d'Italia

MILAN (AP) -- Italy's Ivan Basso has confirmed he will bid for a third Giro d'Italia title this year.

Bulgaria's Jovtchev going to his 6th Olympics

SOFIA, Bulgaria (AP) -- Jordan Jovtchev is looking forward to competing at a sixth Olympic Games this summer.

Wilson tells Rockies he's going with football

NEW YORK (AP) -- Wisconsin quarterback Russell Wilson tells The New York Times that he has decided to play in the NFL rather than continue his baseball career in the Colorado Rockies' organization.

Gang ties suspected in convenience store shooting

HERMISTON, Ore. (AP) -- Police are investigating gang ties in a shooting at a convenience store in the northeast Oregon town of Hermiston that killed one person.

No money to upgrade OR Revenue Dept. computers

SALEM, Ore. (AP) -- A $92 million upgrade of the Oregon Department of Revenue's computer system is on hold because the state can't afford $13 million in start-up costs.

Girls basketball: Woodland 62, King’s Way Christian 20

Sidra Malik had 21 points for the Beavers, who outscored the Knights 21-0 in the second quarter.

Boys basketball: Hudson’s Bay 57, Kelso 42

TJ Brumfield scored 15 of his game-high 23 points in the fourth quarter as the Eagles pulled away for their first Class 3A Greater St. Helens League victory of the season.

Boys basketball: Columbia River 52, Fort Vancouver 30

Isaiah Smith had 20 points and eight rebounds, and Chad Love spearheaded the Chieftain’s pressure defense in the win. Devin Bolds had seven rebounds and six assists to go with six points.

2-year term for texting driver in fatal Bend crash

BEND, Ore. (AP) -- A La Pine driver was sentenced Wednesday to more than two years in prison for a fatal crash near Bend that occurred while he was texting his girlfriend who was sitting next to him.

Ind. theft suspect threatens to eat police, dogs

LAFAYETTE, Ind. (AP) -- Police say a man in Indiana accused of stealing a car threatened to hunt down and eat his arresting officers, their families and police dogs.

Stock futures pare gains after sales, jobs data

NEW YORK (AP) -- Stock futures gave up some gains after the government said retail sales rose just slightly in December and thousands of workers who landed holiday jobs are back on the unemployment line.

Stolen classic car returned to Spokane Valley man

SPOKANE VALLEY, Wash. (AP) -- A Spokane Valley man has his classic 1936 Ford coupe back, after it was stolen from his home in December.

Spokane man jailed on 17 charges in 11 months

SPOKANE, Wash. (AP) -- Spokane police say a repeat offender is back behind bars thanks to a K9 named Leonidas.

Reichelt fastest in downhill training run

WENGEN, Switzerland (AP) -- Hannes Reichelt of Austria was fastest in a training run Thursday in World Cup downhill on the Lauberhorn course.

Neglected horse needs a home, love

Star and 16 others available through Adopt-A-Horse program in Clark County

A mare named Star and a gelding named Mister were found in a public road in north county the day after Christmas.

Spokane man who changed plea gets longer term

SPOKANE, Wash. (AP) -- A 34-year-old Spokane man was sentenced to 39 years in prison for a murder conviction.

Spokane man who changed plea gets longer term

SPOKANE, Wash. (AP) -- A 34-year-old Spokane man was sentenced to 39 years in prison for a murder conviction.

Same-sex marriage approval within reach

Nearly enough Wash. lawmakers firmly back it

OLYMPIA — The Legislature is on the verge of having enough support to make Washington the seventh state to approve gay marriage, according to a tally by The Associated Press.

Vonn leads training session, teammate injured

CORTINA D'AMPEZZO, Italy (AP) -- Lindsey Vonn led the opening training session for a World Cup downhill Thursday, showing she's recovered from the stomach illness that slowed her last week.

Vonn leads opening training session in Cortina

CORTINA D'AMPEZZO, Italy (AP) -- Lindsey Vonn led the opening training session for a World Cup downhill Thursday, showing that she has recovered from the stomach illness that slowed her last week.

Vonn leads opening training session in Cortina

CORTINA D'AMPEZZO, Italy (AP) -- Lindsey Vonn led the opening training session for a World Cup downhill Thursday, showing that she has recovered from the stomach illness that slowed her last week.

Clark County foreclosures fall; remain at high level

2011 saw a 25 percent dip from the previous year

Clark County foreclosures dropped by 25 percent in 2011, though homeowners continued to run into trouble at far greater rates than before housing prices began to slide in 2006, according to a report issued Wednesday.

Snow on the horizon in Western Washington

SEATTLE (AP) -- The National Weather Service needs additional information before it can say much more about the first snow showers of the winter expected this weekend in Western Washington.

Chance of first snow in Western Washington

SEATTLE (AP) -- The Western Washington lowlands could see their first snow showers of the winter this weekend.

Morris agrees to coach Redskins' defensive backs

NEW YORK (AP) -- Former Tampa Bay Buccaneers coach Raheem Morris says he has agreed to coach the Washington Redskins' defensive backs.

Councilors curious about new ambulance pact

With AMR seeking longer response time, Vancouver pair mulls breakaway

Two Vancouver city councilors said Wednesday that they’d like to hear more about leaving Emergency Medical District 2, which encapsulates most of Clark County.

Ringtone halts NY Philharmonic performance

NEW YORK (AP) -- It's the dreaded sound at any live performance -- a ringing cellphone.

Ringtone halts NY Philharmonic performance

NEW YORK (AP) -- It's the dreaded sound at any live performance -- a ringing cellphone.

Ringtone halts NY Philharmonic performance

NEW YORK (AP) -- It's the dreaded sound at any live performance -- a ringing cellphone.

Ringtone halts NY Philharmonic performance

NEW YORK (AP) -- It's the dreaded sound at any live performance -- a ringing cellphone.

Bulgaria's Yovchev going to his 6th Olympics

SOFIA, Bulgaria (AP) -- Yordan Yovchev is looking forward to being the first gymnast to compete at six Olympic Games this summer.

Feds consider protection for Humboldt marten

ARCATA, Calif. (AP) -- Federal biologists are considering Endangered Species Act protection for the Humboldt marten, a cousin of the weasel found in Southern Oregon and Northern California.

Man burned in December car crash recovering in hospital

The Vancouver man who was burned in a car crash Dec. 3 continues to recover at Legacy Emanuel Medical Center in Portland.

Owner of Smokey’s Pizza dies at 53

Wayne Redjou, wife supported sports teams, local schools

The longtime owner of Smokey’s Pizza, known for his charitable giving to sports teams and schools, has died at the age of 53.

Innsbruck ready to host its Winter Youth Olympics

VIENNA (AP) -- An Olympic record will be set even before competition has started at the inaugural Winter Youth Olympics.

Bartel reaches Hobart International final

HOBART, Australia (AP) -- German qualifier Mona Barthel advanced to the final of the Hobart International with a 6-0, 7-6 (6) win Friday over fourth-seeded compatriot Angelique Kerber.

Ex-English cricketer pleads guilty to spot-fixing

LONDON (AP) -- Former Essex cricketer Mervyn Westfield has pleaded guilty to spot-fixing.

State may boost multiple-season hunting permits

Program allows sportsmen to participate in all general hunting seasons

Official: 2 Marines in 'deplorable' Web video ID'd

WASHINGTON (AP) --

Karzai condemns video of Marines urinating on dead

WASHINGTON (AP) -- Defense Secretary Leon Panetta is branding as "utterly despicable" a video purporting to show four U.S. Marines urinating on the corpses of Taliban fighters.

Plzen defender tested positive in Champions League

PRAGUE (AP) -- Defender David Bystron of Czech champion Viktoria Plzen has tested positive for a banned substance in the Champions League and faces a ban from UEFA of up to four years.

Mass of cold air brings chance of weekend snow

Forecast may change before its expected arrival on Sunday

An approaching mass of cold air will bring Southwest Washington a good chance of low-elevation snow this weekend, forecasters said.

Keane completes Villa loan move from LA Galaxy

BIRMINGHAM, England (AP) -- Aston Villa has signed striker Robbie Keane on a two-month loan from the Los Angeles Galaxy.

NC Freightliner factory to add 1,100 jobs

RALEIGH, N.C. (AP) -- Daimler Trucks North America has announced it will hire 1,100 workers to build long-distance trucks at its NC Freightliner plant as it bulks up after the recession.

Seton Catholic, King’s Way Christian set to opt-up

Private schools will join Class 1A Trico League

Seton Catholic and King’s Way Christian are moving up the classification ranks. The private schools with Class 1B enrollment numbers have opted up to play as Class 1A programs and will compete in the Trico League beginning next school year, it was confirmed Wednesday after a meeting of athletic directors.

Penn St. trustees address furor on Paterno firing

PITTSBURGH (AP) -- Penn State trustees say Joe Paterno was removed as football coach in November and not allowed to retire after the season because of "extraordinary circumstances."

Providence College wins accounting competition

PROVIDENCE, R.I. (AP) -- A five-member team of students from Providence College has placed first in a national accounting competition.

Message to mom brightens La Center

Man removes annual holiday display that features 300,000 lights, brought joy to many

LA CENTER — Bryan Miller strung Christmas lights along almost every inch of his property — from trees several stories high to his front and side yards to his roof — all so his late mother could look down from above and see his house this holiday season.

Officials announce countywide burn ban

The Southwest Clean Air Agency issued a Clark County-wide burn ban on Wednesday. The ban will likely continue until Saturday, officials said.

Rochus, Kohlschreiber reach Auckland semifinals

AUCKLAND, New Zealand (AP) -- Belgian veteran Olivier Rochus rallied from a break down in the third set to beat Benoit Paire 6-3, 6-7 (5), 7-6 (4) Thursday, ending the French qualifier's giant-killing run at the Heineken Open.

Ore.: man arrested after police chase, K9 bite

EUGENE, Ore. (AP) -- Police say a high-speed chase that involved two stolen vehicles whipsawed between Eugene and Springfield, Ore., before a determined police dog chased a fleeing man into the Willamette River and bit him on the rear.

MetLife to close Vancouver offices, lay off about 50 workers

MetLife Inc. is closing its mortgage origination business operations, at a cost of about 50 jobs in Clark County and 4,300 across the nation, the company announced Tuesday.

Local Afghan official, 4 others killed in bombing

KABUL, Afghanistan (AP) -- An Afghan official says a suicide car bomber has killed five people including a local district chief in Kandahar province in southern Afghanistan.

Barthel beats defending champ Gajdosova in Hobart

HOBART, Australia (AP) -- Qualifier Mona Barthel beat defending champion Jarmila Gajdosova of Australia 2-6, 6-3, 6-2 on Thursday to move into the semifinals at the Hobart International.

Natalee Holloway suspect pleads guilty to murder

Joran Van der Sloot pleads guilty to killing Peruvian woman

Joran van der Sloot pleaded guilty on Wednesday to the 2010 murder of a young Peruvian woman he met at a Lima casino who was killed five years to the day after the unsolved disappearance in Aruba of an American teen in which he remains the main suspect.

10 years for manslaughter in drunken Ore. brawl

PORTLAND, Ore. (AP) -- A young Oregon man who fatally shot another man during a drunken brawl east of Portland has been sentenced to 10 years in prison for manslaughter.

Tomic into Kooyong final with win over Monfils

MELBOURNE, Australia (AP) -- Bernard Tomic moved into the final of the Kooyong exhibition tournament with a 6-4, 4-6, 7-6 (2) win over Frenchman Gael Monfils on Thursday.

Son's stolen ashes returned to homeowner

LYNNWOOD, Wash. (AP) -- Police say the ashes of a deceased son have been returned to a Lynnwood, Wash.-area homeowner after they were found in a box at a hotel. The box holding the ashes had been stolen in a recent burglary.

Cantwell touts freight bill at Port of Vancouver

With the Port of Vancouver as her stumping grounds, U.S. Sen. Maria Cantwell, D-Wash., on Wednesday called on Congress to pass a bill aimed at boosting the country’s ability to move freight.

Draghi notes signs of stabilization in eurozone

FRANKFURT, Germany (AP) -- European Central Bank president Mario Draghi says the bank sees "tentative signs of stabilization" in the troubled eurozone economy.

ECB, BoE leave rates unchanged

FRANKFURT, Germany (AP) -- The European Central Bank left its key interest rate unchanged on Thursday at 1.0 percent as it plots its next steps in fighting the continent's government debt crisis.

AMR gets two extra response minutes

Ambulance service seeking to cut costs with slower arrivals

Continuing a discussion about ambulance response times that began Monday at a Vancouver City Council workshop, the Clark County commissioners on Tuesday endorsed adding two minutes to American Medical Response’s standard response time.

Eikmeier leads Colorado State past Denver 79-75

FORT COLLINS, Colo. (AP) -- Wes Eikmeier scored 22 points and Jesse Carr made three free throws in the final 21 seconds as Colorado State held off Denver 79-75 Wednesday night.

Kent State defeats Miami (Ohio) 71-67

KENT, Ohio. (AP) -- Justin Greene scored a game-high 23 points and teammate Randal Holt's late heroics helped Kent State edge Miami (Ohio) 71-67 Wednesday night in a tight Mid-American Conference game.

At 28 pounds, Ore. 'fat cat' up for adoption

PORTLAND, Ore. (AP) -- Weighing in at 28 pounds, Walter the cat is among the largest to be put up for adoption at the Oregon Humane Society in Portland. Shelter Executive Director Sharon Harmon says her organization is looking for an owner who can help Walter shed some weight.

Sports agent Leigh Steinberg files for bankruptcy

SANTA ANA, Calif. (AP) -- The sports agent who was the inspiration for the movie "Jerry Maguire" has filed for bankruptcy protection.

No. 10 Kansas overwhelms Texas Tech 81-46

LUBBOCK, Texas (AP) -- Thomas Robinson had 19 points and 12 rebounds to lead No. 10 Kansas over Texas Tech 81-46 on Wednesday night.

State economist resigns to take job in private sector

The state’s chief economist announced Wednesday that he is stepping down to take a private sector job in Ohio.

WA boy, 10, dies in apparent accidental hanging

BELLINGHAM, Wash. (AP) -- A 10-year-old Whatcom County, Wash., boy has died from injuries he suffered during an apparent accidental hanging at his home.

Texas-Arlington routs Sam Houston State 66-40

ARLINGTON, Texas (AP) -- LaMarcus Reed scored 19 points Wednesday night to lead Texas-Arlington to a 66-40 victory over Sam Houston State.

Saint Joseph's defeats Fordham 80-62

PHILADELPHIA (AP) -- Langston Galloway tied his career high with 30 points and Saint Joseph's defeated Fordham 80-62 on Wednesday night.

Stony Brook routs UMBC 89-49

BALTIMORE (AP) -- Bryan Douhger scored 15 points and Stony Brook defeated Maryland-Baltimore County 89-49 on Wednesday, its largest margin of victory against a Division I opponent.

Woman drives 17 miles wrong way on I-5; no crashes

TUMWATER, Wash. (AP) -- The Washington State Patrol says an impaired motorist drove about 17 miles the wrong way on Interstate 5 at speeds as high as 100 mph before troopers stopped her. Amazingly, while several drivers reported near-misses, there were no collisions.

Blaze causes $200,000 in damage to home near Battle Ground

Residents escape injury; cause of fire remains under investigation

A two-alarm fire caused extensive damage to a house south of Battle Ground on Wednesday morning.

Video captures fight on Portland MAX train

Police seek information about girls seen on video

Police and TriMet are looking into an incident on a MAX train from last December after video of a girl being repeatedly hit was posted to the Internet.

Bills WR coach Hixon to be lead assistant at PSU

STATE COLLEGE, Pa. (AP) -- Buffalo Bills receivers coach Stan Hixon is returning to college to become the lead assistant under new Penn State coach Bill O'Brien.

AP source: Roof, Hixon among new PSU assistants

STATE COLLEGE, Pa. (AP) -- A person familiar with the hiring says defensive coordinator Ted Roof is leaving Central Florida after a month to take over the same position at Penn State under new coach Bill O'Brien.

Partin, Irving lead Boston U. past Maine 77-68

ORONO, Maine (AP) -- Darryl Partin scored 27 points and D.J. Irving added 23 to lead Boston University over Maine 77-68 on Wednesday night.

Mavs coach Carlisle ejected vs. Celtics

BOSTON (AP) -- Dallas Mavericks coach Rick Carlisle was ejected Wednesday night against Boston after picking up back-to-back technical fouls in the third quarter.

George Washington beats Rhode Island 69-61

WASHINGTON (AP) -- David Pellom scored 17 points and grabbed 11 rebounds as George Washington took control with a 20-5 run midway through the second half for a 69-61 win over Rhode Island Wednesday night.

Harney lifts Akron over Bowling Green 56-55

BOWLING GREEN, Ohio (AP) -- Nick Harney made a layup with 1 second left to lift Akron over Bowling Green 56-55 on Wednesday night.

Central Michigan defeats Eastern Michigan 60-56

YPSILANTI, Mich. (AP) -- Derek Jackson scored 15 points and Trey Ziegler added 11 points and 15 rebounds to lead Central Michigan to a 60-56 victory against Eastern Michigan on Wednesday night.

No. 16 Louisville women hold off South Florida

LOUISVILLE, Ky. (AP) -- Shoni Schimmel scored 16 points and No. 16 Louisville rallied to beat South Florida 63-57 on Wednesday night.

Bears get permission to interview 4 GM candidates

CHICAGO (AP) -- The Chicago Bears have received permission to interview four candidates for their general manager job.

RI judge orders mediation of Big East, WVU cases

MORGANTOWN, W.Va. (AP) -- A Rhode Island judge has ordered West Virginia University and the Big East to enter non-binding mediation in their competing lawsuits over WVU's plans to quit the conference and join the Big 12.

Nuggets G Lawson to miss Wednesday's game

DENVER (AP) -- Denver Nuggets point guard Ty Lawson will not play Wednesday night against New Jersey because of a strained right foot.

12 chosen to US national softball team

OKLAHOMA CITY (AP) -- Pitchers Keilani Ricketts, Jordan Taylor and Chelsea Thomas are among a dozen players who have been selected to this year's U.S. women's national softball team.

Tennessee adds walk-on transfer PG Cory Stanton

KNOXVILLE, Tenn. (AP) -- Tennessee has added walk-on point guard Cory Stanton to the team.

Giants give All-Star pitcher Vogelsong 2-year deal

SAN FRANCISCO (AP) -- Ryan Vogelsong and the San Francisco Giants have agreed to a two-year contract worth approximately $8.3 million after he became one of the team's most reliable starters and an unlikely All-Star last season.

Filly brings top price at Keeneland session

LEXINGTON, Ky. (AP) -- A filly by leading sire Kitten's Joy has brought a top price of $180,000 during the third session of Keeneland's January Horses of All Ages Sale.

Josephine County schools approve drug dogs

GRANTS PASS, Ore. (AP) -- Drug-sniffing dogs will soon be in some Josephine County schools.

Alleged carjacker arrested when he stops for gas

COOS BAY, Ore. (AP) -- Police in Coos Bay say they arrested an alleged carjacker when he stopped to buy gasoline for the stolen vehicle.

WA chief economist stepping down

OLYMPIA, Wash. (AP) -- The state's chief economist is stepping down to take a private sector job in Ohio.

Rodriguez hires WV's Casteel as d-coordinator

TUCSON, Ariz. (AP) -- New Arizona coach Rich Rodriguez has hired West Virginia's Jeff Casteel as defensive coordinator.

The Tebow Show lures in new television viewers

NEW YORK (AP) -- The Tim Tebow Show is must-see TV.

NCAA broadens definition of agent, includes family

INDIANAPOLIS (AP) -- The NCAA has broadened the definition of agents to include parents, closing the loophole that allowed 2010 Heisman Trophy winner Cam Newton to keep playing despite his father's pay-for-play scheme.

Pens coach: Sidney Crosby set to resume skating

WASHINGTON (AP) -- Pittsburgh Penguins star Sidney Crosby is ready to resume skating.

Redskins LB Fletcher wins Bart Starr Award

ASHBURN, Va. (AP) -- Washington Redskins linebacker London Fletcher is the recipient of the Bart Starr Award, which honors an NFL player for outstanding character and leadership in the home, on the field and in the community.

EPL chief: Racism cases haven't harmed league

LONDON (AP) -- Premier League chief executive Richard Scudamore insists the spate of recent racism cases has not harmed the English game, claiming that other countries might not have acted so decisively.

Mets finalize $1.1M deal with OF Scott Hairston

NEW YORK (AP) -- Outfielder Scott Hairston and the New York Mets have finalized a $1.1 million, one-year contract.

Bulls sign Mike James

CHICAGO (AP) -- The Chicago Bulls have signed free agent guard Mike James.

Microsoft eclipses Yahoo in US search for 1st time

SAN FRANCISCO (AP) -- Microsoft Corp. has finally reached a long-sought and expensive goal -- its Bing search engine now ranks second behind Google in the Internet's most lucrative market.

Mattingly _ Preston _ agrees to deal with Yanks

NEW YORK (AP) -- A Mattingly will be back in uniform in the New York Yankees' organization this year -- Preston.

Computer issues delay 25 Alaska Airlines flights

SEATTLE (AP) -- Computer problems caused a four-hour delay on 25 Alaska Airlines flights on Wednesday.

Rivals hope to block Romney trifecta in SC

Mitt Romney says he's ready for an uphill climb in South Carolina after coasting through New Hampshire. As the Republican presidential contest moves south, his rivals are sharpening their attacks and hoping to win over tea partyers and religious conservatives who feel uncomfortable with the front-runner.

Healthy Johnson looks to lead Texans at Ravens

HOUSTON (AP) -- Andre Johnson missed several games this season dealing with injuries to both hamstrings.

Ross, Giants secondary ready for Packers sequel

EAST RUTHERFORD, N.J. (AP) -- The New York Giants secondary has a message for Aaron Rodgers and the Green Bay Packers this time around:

No. 15 Murray State stays undefeated, focused

MURRAY, Ky. (AP) -- Murray State is running with the likes of Kentucky, Louisville and the rest of college basketball's elite.

Marines probe video depicting urination on corpses

WASHINGTON (AP) -- The Marine Corps is investigating a video depicting what appears to be four Marines urinating on the corpses of Taliban fighters.

Opening Move takes Big A feature

NEW YORK (AP) -- Opening Move remained unbeaten in two starts over Aqueduct's winterized inner track, beating Quick Money by 212 lengths on Wednesday in the $62,000 allowance feature.

AP source: LSU WR coach Gonzales joining Illinois

NEW ORLEANS (AP) -- A person familiar with the move says LSU wide receivers coach Billy Gonzales has accepted the offensive coordinator's job at Illinois under new Illini coach Tim Beckman.

Indiana NFL players lobby against right-to-work

INDIANAPOLIS (AP) -- Quarterbacks Jay Cutler of the Chicago Bears and Rex Grossman of the Washington Redskins are among six NFL players urging Indiana lawmakers to oppose right-to-work legislation.

Schools check compliance standards after bad 2011

INDIANAPOLIS (AP) -- Maryland senior associate athletic director Lori Ebihara says the long list of scandals in college sports last year has forced her school and others to review the standards in their compliance departments.

Astros claim OF Martinez off waivers from Mets

HOUSTON (AP) -- Outfielder Fernando Martinez has been claimed by the Houston Astros off waivers from the New York Mets.

Prince picked as Boise State offensive coordinator

BOISE, Idaho (AP) -- Boise State coach Chris Petersen has made assistant Robert Prince the team's new offensive coordinator.

Forest advocate Andy Stahl running for county post

EUGENE, Ore. (AP) -- A prominent veteran of the Northwest's old growth forest battles is running for Lane County Commissioner.

Falcons WR Roddy White added to NFC Pro Bowl team

FLOWERY BRANCH, Ga. (AP) -- Falcons receiver Roddy White has made his fourth straight Pro Bowl roster.

In Our View: 60-Day Challenge

Legislators have a tough assignment,and they’re not good at hurrying

When Washington’s legislators returned to work on Monday, they faced a heavy schedule of fiscal and social issues. We wish them well, because as Gov. Chris Gregoire said in Tuesday’s State of the State address, “I ask you to finish quickly because every day the problem gets bigger and the choices harder.” And as state Sen. Joe Zarelli, R-Ridgefield, boasted in the Republicans’ reply, “fortunately, our Legislature is not like Congress. We are all Washingtonians.”

Vancouver school found success in 'opportunity zone'

National group takes note of ‘opportunity zone’ that improved low-income students’ performance

National education advocates are taking notice of a successful program that helped raise the test scores of Vancouver’s poorest students.

Editorial Cartoon: Obama Still Wishing

Jan. 11

Basketball is matchup of the ages

Two coaches, ages 74 and 23, face off with first-year programs

It was a matchup of the ages Monday night at Heritage High School. Two coaches with more than five decades worth of basketball coaching experience met each other on the court for the first time.

Callaghan: New use found for gerrymandering

If there’s one thing regular folks know about post-Census redistricting, it’s that gerrymandering is bad. The term was first used in 1812 when then-Gov. Elbridge Gerry of Massachusetts was blamed for a district so manipulated for partisan purposes that it resembled a salamander. It has become a label for any redistricting efforts that give advantage to one party over another. It should, however, be reserved for those times when hyper-partisan districts also aren’t compact and contiguous.

Erosion spooks Northwestern Lake cabin owners

Landscape continues to transform two months after breaching of Condit Dam

WHITE SALMON — David Johnson uses a simple rule of thumb to find solid ground in the ever-shifting landscape around the White Salmon River, snaking through a deep muddy canyon that used to be Northwestern Lake.

Help city update lists forhomeowner associations

The city of Camas is updating its list of homeowner association officers. The information is important so homeowner associations can be notified of construction projects or other important notices that affect their areas.

Courthouse restoration money approved

Seventy-year-old brass at the Clark County Courthouse will be professionally polished.

PREP NOTES: Tickets still available for NFF awards banquet

Tickets remain on sale for the Clark County Chapter of the National Football Foundation and College Hall of Fame Scholar Athlete Awards Banquet, which takes place next week.

PAUL VALENCIA: Up-and-down season for basketball rankings

Commentary: Paul Valencia

God bless the Seattle Times. And the Tacoma News Tribune. And any other organization that puts together state rankings for high school basketball.

Letter: Corporate crime costs taxpayers

Mitt Romney and the Supreme Court tell us that corporations have the same rights as people. We know people commit crimes and are usually caught, convicted and sent to jail.

Letter: Look beyond candidate's religion

What is it that people don't like about Mitt Romney? The fact that he is called a Mormon.

Skills Center hosts Winter Feast 2012

The Clark County Skills Center will hold its annual Winter Feast dinner at 6:30 p.m. Jan. 20 at in the center’s restaurant at 12200 N.E. 28th Street.

Letter: Postal service provides many benefits

The framers of our Constitution thought a postal system was important because in Article I Section 8, it states: "Congress shall have Power ... To establish Post Offices and post Roads." This was listed before its power to declare war or pay for an army or navy.

Community leaders spend a day at school

Vancouver community leaders will get an inside look at Evergreen schools on Tuesday.

Letter: Best route for BPA is obvious

Moses said it best: "Let my people go." That is exactly what Bonneville Power Administration should do for all, by choosing the farthest east and least populated "gray line" alternative and non-wires as the alternate backup.

Letter: Tolls will have multiple effects

If a Vancouver resident wants to save on sales taxes, a trip across the river to an Oregon store might save some money. However, this savings is at the expense of increased vehicle mileage and gas costs.

Letter: Our children need community support

As I read the Jan. 3 Columbian online story "Legacy launches clinic for child abuse victims," I was stunned by the number of children who are suffering from abuse, but relieved to know we have committed community members supporting the most vulnerable among us.

Death notices

A daily listing of death notices.

Letter: A way to assist family

I read Carolee Allen's comments in her Jan. 7 letter, "Parks must be fully funded" regarding the horrible tragedy in Mount Rainier National Park on Jan. 1. I totally agree with all that she said, but would like to add one thing.

Neighbors calendar

Thursday

Pets of the week

These pets are among those available for adoption from noon to 6 p.m. Monday through Friday and noon to 5 p.m. Saturday and Sunday at the Humane Society for Southwest Washington, 1100 N.E. 192nd Ave., Vancouver. Fees — which can include registered microchip, health exam, a spay or neuter certificate and vaccination — vary. Call 360-693-4746.

Hough couple donate $10,000 to parenting program

Hough — When Valerie Norris learned that Clark County funding for the Nurturing Parent program at Second Step Housing was being eliminated, she knew she needed to do something to save the program.

Runner pays it forward on Hood to Coast course

I have always had the hope to help and inspire others. Big or small, in life sometimes we all need a little help.

What's Up with That? Dogs do harm to Ridgefield Little League fields

Why are Ridgefield citizens unable to use the Little League baseball fields in Abrams Park? We pay taxes on them. Nevertheless, they are padlocked from the public, with the exception of Little League. I understand Little League is tax-exempt. When members of the community who pay taxes questioned this, they were informed by the park board that Little League had the right to do so because they have an informal agreement with the city of Ridgefield. I might add, the baseball fields take up half of the park. Children can’t use these fields if they aren’t in Little League. What is up with this?

Volunteer firefighters to be feted by state, fire district

Volunteer firefighters around the state are being recognized for their dedication and service this week as part of the state’s first Volunteer Firefighter Recognition Week.

Quatier family presents display to military museum

Northeast Hazel Dell — The Quatier brothers will be long remembered thanks to a new display at the Veterans Museum at the Vancouver VA Campus.

Joy Team delivers holiday cheer to hospital patients

Salmon Creek — The Joy Team delivered more than 90 balloons Dec. 23 for patients spending Christmas at Legacy Salmon Creek Medical Center.

$1,500 grant to help build community bulletin board

Lincoln — The Lincoln Neighborhood Association received a $1,500 sustainability grant from the Vancouver Watersheds Alliance in the fall.

Food bank distributes 200 baskets to families

Battle Ground — The North County Community Food Bank distributed about 200 Christmas baskets Dec. 17 to local families in need.

Ridgefield students display artwork at gallery

Ridgefield — The second-annual Focus on the Future art show at Alcove Art Gallery features work by 35 art students from the four Ridgefield schools.

Library word wall featured on CNET blog

Esther Short — A photo of the new Vancouver Community Library word wall was featured Dec. 14 on Crave, a CNET blog about “gorgeous gadgets and other crushworthy stuff.”

Ridgefield wins food drive contest against Kalama

Ridgefield — Ridgefield High School students competed in a food drive against Kalama High School during December and won.

Neighborhood association hosts holiday potluck

Vancouver Heights — Neighbors who live in Vancouver Heights gathered Dec. 10 for the annual holiday potluck at Breakfast at Valerie’s restaurant in Vancouver.

Bank employees donate gifts to foster children

Esther Short — Nearly 100 employees of Riverview Bank locations throughout Clark and Klickitat counties and Portland donated about 400 gifts to foster children through the bank’s Shirley DuPaul Gifts for Kids in Care program.

Shumway celebrates 35 years together

Shumway — In January, the Shumway Neighborhood Association celebrates 35 years as an officially recognized Vancouver neighborhood association.

Kids and Cops Shopping Program gets $7,000 donation

Esther Short — Wal-Mart Stores Inc. and General Mills donated $7,000 to the city of Vancouver for the Domestic Violence Prosecution Center.

Neighborhood jumps on social media bandwagon on Nextdoor

Landover/Sharmel — Residents have a new way of communicating. The neighborhood is now on Nextdoor, a social media site just for neighborhoods.

Spurs close within 3 points of EPL lead

LONDON (AP) -- Tottenham moved within three points of Premier League leader Manchester City, beating Everton 2-0 Wednesday night on goals by Aaron Lennon and Benoit Assou-Ekotto.

All 16 eligible MLS teams to enter US Open Cup

CHICAGO (AP) -- All 16 eligible Major League Soccer teams will compete in the U.S. Open Cup, which is expanding from 40 to 64 teams this year.

Suspect arrested in Forks fatal stabbing

FORKS, Wash. (AP) -- A man suspected of stabbing an 18-year-old woman to death in Forks was has been arrested.

Wife: Charged Penn State administrator has cancer

STATE COLLEGE, Pa. (AP) -- A Penn State administrator charged with failing to report an allegation of child sex abuse involving former defensive coordinator Jerry Sandusky has been diagnosed with a recurrence of lung cancer.

Sports talk show host Jim Rome leaves ESPN for CBS

NEW YORK (AP) -- Sports talk show host Jim Rome is leaving ESPN for CBS's networks.

AP source: SC's Butler joining Penn State staff

COLUMBIA, S.C. (AP) -- South Carolina special teams coach John Butler is heading to Penn State.

Arrest in arson at Wash. home under construction

ARLINGTON, Wash. (AP) -- Arlington, Wash., police have arrested a 16-year-old boy in a Tuesday night arson at a home under construction.

Fire set at Arlington home under construction

ARLINGTON, Wash. (AP) -- A fire Tuesday night at a home under construction in Arlington was arson.

Out with concussion, Bouchard practices patience

ST. PAUL, Minn. (AP) -- Pierre-Marc Bouchard (pee-AYR'-marc boo-SHARD') says he's trying to stay positive after suffering another concussion.

Bellingham police motorcycle officer injures leg

BELLINGHAM, Wash. (AP) -- A Bellingham police motorcycle officer crashed while make a turn Wednesday morning and was taken to a hospital with a leg injury.

McKenna holds fundraising lead during freeze

OLYMPIA, Wash. (AP) -- Republican gubernatorial candidate Rob McKenna has more money in the bank than his Democratic opponent, U.S. Rep. Jay Inslee, even though McKenna has been subject to a fundraising freeze since the end of November.

Burn ban issued for 6 Wash. counties

SEATTLE (AP) -- Burn bans have been declared in six Washington state counties.

Burn ban issued for 4 Puget Sound counties

SEATTLE (AP) -- The Puget Sound Clean Air Agency has issued a burn ban, effective at 4 p.m. Wednesday, for King, Pierce, Snohomish and Kitsap counties.

Flacco accepts criticism because he doesn't care

OWINGS MILLS, Md. (AP) -- Joe Flacco is the only quarterback in NFL history to reach the playoffs in each of his first four seasons. He's 44-20 during the regular season with the Baltimore Ravens and has registered at least one playoff win in three straight seasons.

Southern Ore. toxic algae warnings lifted

MEDFORD, Ore. (AP) -- Two toxic algae warnings imposed during the heat of last summer in Southern Oregon have finally been lifted, but some others remain.

Spurs waive Diogu, sign forward Malcolm Thomas

SAN ANTONIO (AP) -- The San Antonio Spurs waived former lottery pick Ike Diogu and signed forward Malcolm Thomas from the NBA's D-League on Wednesday.

UEFA, Interpol team against fixing, violence

NYON, Switzerland (AP) -- UEFA and international police liaison agency Interpol are teaming up against match-fixing and violence in stadiums.

US high court declines Ore. pistols and pot case

MEDFORD, Ore. (AP) -- The U.S. Supreme Court has declined to hear an appeal from an Oregon sheriff who denied a concealed handgun license to a medical marijuana user.

AP: Gay marriage within reach in Wash. Legislature

OLYMPIA, Wash. (AP) -- Washington's Legislature is on the verge of having enough support to approve gay marriage, with votes continuing to realign in the state Senate.

Former Auburn coach returns to sideline with Dream

ATLANTA (AP) -- Former Auburn women's basketball coach Joe Ciampi is returning to the sideline.

Auburn introduces defensive coordinator VanGorder

AUBURN, Ala. (AP) -- Auburn coach Gene Chizik says he only spoke to one candidate for defensive coordinator, and that was Brian VanGorder.

Report backs more use of reclaimed water

LOS ANGELES (AP) -- A new report says the use of treated sewage water could safely increase the nation's drinking supplies.

Georgia TE Orson Charles enters NFL draft

ATLANTA (AP) -- Georgia right end Orson Charles is entering the NFL draft.

Report: Kubica in hospital after slipping on ice

VIAREGGIO, Italy (AP) -- Italian news agency ANSA says Formula One driver Robert Kubica is back in the hospital after slipping on ice in the street.

WA lawmakers seek ban on toxins in kids' products

OLYMPIA, Wash. (AP) -- Washington state legislators are announcing plans to ban a suspected carcinogen from being used as a flame retardant in children's products.

Skateboarder: I was 'like the Hulk' in NYC hotel

NEW YORK (AP) -- A professional skateboarder who tore paintings off the walls of a New York City hotel is blaming his bizarre, naked ruckus on drinking and what he thought were anti-hangover pills.

Duncan urges college leaders to continue changes

INDIANAPOLIS (AP) -- Education Secretary Arne Duncan says he believes the NCAA is on the right track and is urging college leaders to continue making changes at a rapid pace.

Port Angeles managers buying Black Ball Ferry Line

PORT ANGELES, Wash. (AP) -- The Black Ball Ferry Line, which operates the ferry Coho between Port Angeles and Victoria, British Columbia, is being sold to its managers.

Bolt to run 100 at Bislett Games in June

OSLO, Norway (AP) -- Usain Bolt has confirmed he will run the 100 meters at the Diamond League meeting in Oslo on June 7.

Skier Burke critical day after accident

SALT LAKE CITY (AP) -- Canadian freestyle skier Sarah Burke is in critical condition, a day after she was airlifted from the mountains of Utah to a Salt Lake City hospital with injuries after a training accident in the superpipe.

Skier Burke remains in coma day after accident

SALT LAKE CITY (AP) -- Canadian freestyle skier Sarah Burke remains in a coma, a day after she was airlifted from the mountains of Utah to a Salt Lake City hospital with serious injuries after a training accident in the superpipe.

Suncadia resort furloughs about 150 employees

SEATTLE (AP) -- A luxury mountain resort in central Washington has temporarily furloughed more than half its employees.

Judge dismisses Hanford whistleblower lawsuit

RICHLAND, Wash. (AP) -- A judge has dismissed a lawsuit brought by a Hanford nuclear reservation worker who claimed a contractor there wanted him off the job for raising safety concerns about a nuclear waste treatment plant.

'Book Lust' author Nancy Pearl has Amazon deal

NEW YORK (AP) -- Nancy Pearl, an author and former librarian much loved in the library and book-selling communities, has a deal with Amazon.com to return obscure works back to print.

Mayflower relative sought in '91 Wash. killing

SEATTLE (AP) -- Cold case detectives looking for the man who killed a Federal Way girl 20 years ago have a clue from even further in the past.

Mayflower descendant sought in Seattle-area case

SEATTLE (AP) -- Cold case detectives looking for the man who killed a Federal Way girl 20 years ago have a clue from even further in the past.

Glover withdraws from Sony with sprained knee

HONOLULU (AP) -- Lucas Glover has withdrawn from the Sony Open with a sprained right knee that still is got strong enough for him to play golf.

Tagliabue award established by Pollard Alliance

NEW YORK (AP) -- The Fritz Pollard Alliance has created the Paul J. Tagliabue Award of Excellence in honor of the former NFL commissioner.

Ohio State president laments scandal headlines

COLUMBUS, Ohio (AP) -- The president of Ohio State University calls the attention generated by a memorabilia-for-cash scandal in its football program a monumental shame that overshadowed the school's accomplishments.

Jets hire Tony Sparano as offensive coordinator

NEW YORK (AP) -- The New York Jets have hired Tony Sparano as their offensive coordinator to replace Brian Schottenheimer.

Finchem gets 4-year extension

HONOLULU (AP) -- PGA Tour Commissioner Tim Finchem has received a four-year contract extension, keeping him in charge of golf's biggest tour through 2016.

US denies role in Iranian scientist's death

WASHINGTON (AP) -- Secretary of State Hillary Rodham Clinton says the U.S. played no role in the killing of an Iranian nuclear scientist and says the U.S. is looking for an international understanding with Iran that ends its uranium enrichment program.

Stories for January 11, 2012

Lead stories

Stories

Star and 16 others available through Adopt-A-Horse program in Clark County

Nearly enough Wash. lawmakers firmly back it

2011 saw a 25 percent dip from the previous year

With AMR seeking longer response time, Vancouver pair mulls breakaway

Wayne Redjou, wife supported sports teams, local schools

Forecast may change before its expected arrival on Sunday

Private schools will join Class 1A Trico League

Man removes annual holiday display that features 300,000 lights, brought joy to many

Joran Van der Sloot pleads guilty to killing Peruvian woman

Ambulance service seeking to cut costs with slower arrivals

Residents escape injury; cause of fire remains under investigation

Police seek information about girls seen on video

Legislators have a tough assignment,and they’re not good at hurrying

National group takes note of ‘opportunity zone’ that improved low-income students’ performance

Two coaches, ages 74 and 23, face off with first-year programs

Landscape continues to transform two months after breaching of Condit Dam

Commentary: Paul Valencia