The Columbian · Storify

Coal train brings out protesters on both sides

The Columbian — Thu, 13 Dec 2012 02:23:15 GMT

Advocates for job creation squared off again Wednesday, Dec. 12 in Vancouver, Wash., with environmental activists over a proposal to build a new terminal in Bellingham that would become one of five such facilities to export coal from regional ports.

Storified by The Columbian · Wed, Dec 12 2012 18:23:15

Hearing brings coal spotlight to Vancouver http://bit.ly/Ud8Hla
— The Columbian · Tue, Dec 11 2012 00:14:14

Before the public hearing, activists for the environment and for the export-related jobs planted signs along the roads leading to Clark College's Gaiser Hall today. On campus, the Alliance for NW Jobs had gathered outside, dressed in green shirts and preparing to speak.

@CreateNWJobs is in #Vancouver today in support of more JOBS in Washington. Join them: http://ow.ly/fYBuu #CreateNWJobs
— Nat Assoc of Mfg · Wed, Dec 12 2012 10:36:13

Construction of the Gateway Pacific Terminal will provide nearly $100 million in tax revenue for state and local services. #CreateNWJobs
— Alliance for NW Jobs · Wed, Dec 12 2012 17:44:42

Residents from Longview came out to join the pro-job majority and support the GPT terminals! #CreateNWJobs http://pic.twitter.com/ac38bu49 · Alliance for NW Jobs

These two support the Gateway Pacific Terminal. How about you? #CreateNWJobs http://pic.twitter.com/G1r3Z3ui · Alliance for NW Jobs

Meanwhile, inside Gaiser Hall, opponents of the coal export terminals donned red shirts and rallied at a press conference with guest speakers such as Vancouver Mayor Tim Leavitt.

Vancouver, WA mayor opens anti-coal export press conference citing public health, enviro, safety, & quality of life concerns #nocoalexports
— GreenpeacePNW · Wed, Dec 12 2012 15:22:09

Vanc., Wa Mayor Leavitt rallies w community members w questions & concerns re coal exports http://yfrog.com/khjvdtkpj #nocoalex #orpol · NWF Pacific Center

Vancouver's Mayor: coal export "is a contradiction in direction" 4 our region & planet & reminds us "we have a duty to future generations."
— GreenpeacePNW · Wed, Dec 12 2012 15:24:24

Coal monster crashes press conference, audience says no to coal trains & barges. We want a cleaner, safer, healthier world #nocoalexports
— GreenpeacePNW · Wed, Dec 12 2012 15:33:52

Rick Marshall, Camus, Wa developer is fighting coal for his kids. http://yfrog.com/ocgc8rmgj #nocoalex #orpol · PowerPastCoal

NW Guides & Anglers Pres. Bob Rees tells @OPBnews why fisherman oppose coal exports http://yfrog.com/ntmsabwkj #nocoalex #orpol @NWF · NWF Pacific Center

RT @nwfpacific: Don McDermott, former railroad exec, warns the loss of wineyard and tourism jobs from coal http://yfrog.com/esrsexzj #nocoalex #orpol · Climate Solutions

And then the public hearing begins with a room in Gaiser Hall filling to capacity and spilling over to another room in Foster Auditorium for others to make comments.

Dr. Harris: accidents happen, but coal train accidents are foreseeable, as are all the diseases caused by coal dust & diesel fumes #nocoalex
— GreenpeacePNW · Wed, Dec 12 2012 15:41:08

No applause/booing allowed. Wave hands if you like what you're hearing, thumbs down if you don't. #coal #coalwa
— Eric Florip · Wed, Dec 12 2012 16:06:38

Coal opponents have the supporters outnumbered here. #coal #coalwa http://pic.twitter.com/ZwltdPpb · Eric Florip

We've got our first tears... Emotional anti-coal testimony, followed by enthusiastic hand- and sign-waving. #coal #coalwa
— Eric Florip · Wed, Dec 12 2012 16:38:46

And we have our youngest speaker so far, 4 years old. He wants good food and a good life. #coal #coalwa
— Eric Florip · Wed, Dec 12 2012 16:45:58

Bank robberies hit Clark County

The Columbian — Wed, 20 Jun 2012 23:39:25 GMT

A pair of bank robberies hit Clark County on the afternoon of June 20, 2012. We provided a play-by-play of the robberies -- and the high-speed chase that followed on. Here, in chronological order, is how the afternoon's events unfolded.

Storified by The Columbian · Wed, Jun 20 2012 16:39:25

Police chase after bank robbery in Hazel Dell reaching speeds of 90 mph. Chase now on I5, heading toward Oregon. #clark911
— The Columbian · Wed, Jun 20 2012 15:08:45

Robbery suspect swerves, avoids spike strip on I-5. Chase heading east on SR14. #clark911
— The Columbian · Wed, Jun 20 2012 15:09:34

Police chase EB on SR14, speeds at 80 mph. #clark911
— The Columbian · Wed, Jun 20 2012 15:10:47

Chase passing Wintler Park area, heading east on SR 14. Driver passing right on shoulder. #clark911
— The Columbian · Wed, Jun 20 2012 15:11:25

Suspect in black Toyota Sequoia. Started in Hazel Dell, chase through surface streets before hitting freeway. Took Lieser Rd Exit.
— The Columbian · Wed, Jun 20 2012 15:12:50

Chase NB on Lieser Road. Robbery suspect may be armed. #clark911 #vanwa
— The Columbian · Wed, Jun 20 2012 15:13:41

Possibly west on Macarthur from Lieser. Police having difficulty keeping sight of black Toyota Sequoia #clark911
— The Columbian · Wed, Jun 20 2012 15:15:46

Our first story went up as the high-speed pursuit left Highway 14 ...

Columbian.com - Bank robbery suspect leads authorities on high-speed chase

A suspected bank robber is leading Clark County authorities on a car chase on Interstate 5 and Highway 14 that has topped 90 miles per ho...

Fugitive robbery suspect white male, 30s, short wavy hair, facial hair, black shirt, sunglasses. Was driving black Toyota Sequoia. #clark911
— The Columbian · Wed, Jun 20 2012 15:19:24

Bank robbery suspect was driving a black Toyota Sequoia: WA plate 001YVO #clark911
— The Columbian · Wed, Jun 20 2012 15:21:31

Around this time, another bank robbery was reported ...

And ANOTHER bank robbery: B of A on 3308 NE Auto Mall Drive in #vanwa. Suspect long brown curly hair, black shirt. Passed note. #clark911
— The Columbian · Wed, Jun 20 2012 15:25:39

Suspect in B of A had a large build, black shirt, long curly brown hair. Left on foot. Not seen getting into vehicle. #clark911 #vanwa
— The Columbian · Wed, Jun 20 2012 15:27:29

Suspect description in both bank robberies similar; vehicle not seen in Auto Mall Drive robbery, however. #clark911 #vanwa
— The Columbian · Wed, Jun 20 2012 15:28:54

More on suspect for B of A robbery on Auto Mall Drive in #vanwa: 6-foot-3, medium to muscular build, carrying white plastic bag. #clark911
— The Columbian · Wed, Jun 20 2012 15:33:40

FBI says suspects in #HazelDell and #VanWa bank robberies do *not* appear to be the same person. #clark911
— The Columbian · Wed, Jun 20 2012 15:31:18

Here's the initial story on that mall-area bank robbery ...

Columbian.com - Clark County authorities investigating second bank robbery

Clark County authorities are investigating a second bank robbery in the area, less than a half hour after a man allegedly robbed a Hazel ...

Back to the high-speed chase ...

WA Senate race in 18th District 2012

The Columbian — Wed, 13 Jun 2012 21:14:58 GMT

The story of the race to become Washington's state senator from the 17th Legislative District. (located in Clark County). This story is told in reverse chronological order, with the newest information up top.

Storified by The Columbian · Wed, Jun 13 2012 14:14:58

What is it with these elected officials just up and leaving they're position? They were elected by the people to represent them. You don't just up and leave in the middle of your term! Now there will have to be another special election to cover this guy! Regardless of party, these guys need to be held accountable for their actions.
— Harper Peterson · Thu, May 31 2012 08:04:31

Not only will Zarelli not seek re-election, he will also resign before the end of his term, he announces on May 29. May 31 would be his last day in office.

Columbian.com - UPDATE: Sen. Zarelli will resign effective Thursday

In a stunning political announcement made Tuesday, state Sen. Joseph Zarelli said he will resign on Thursday rather than serve the remain...

More information about Democrat Ralph Scmidt becomes known, and Rivers expresses shock over Zarelli's decision not to seek re-election.

Columbian.com - Zarelli's departure alters 18th races

Republican state Sen. Joseph Zarelli's surprise decision to step down has shaken up the political landscape of the 18th Legislative Distr...

Good things come to those who wait.
— Todd Miller · Fri, May 18 2012 22:24:04

Late on the last day of filing week, longtime state Sen. Joseph Zarelli, R-Ridgefield, announces he won't seek re-election. State Rep. Ann Rivers, R-La Center, and retired IT worker Ralph Schmidt, a Democrat, file to replace Zarelli.

Columbian.com - UPDATE: Zarelli will be leaving state Senate

Zarelli's statement Zarelli to step down after 17 years as 18th District state senator OLYMPIA... Sen. Joseph Zarelli, R-Ridgefield, has ...

Googlesyndication

WA House race, Pos. 2, in 18th District 2012

The Columbian — Mon, 04 Jun 2012 23:36:46 GMT

The story of the race to become Washington's Position 2 state representative from the 18th Legislative District. (located in Clark County). This story is told in reverse chronological order, with the newest information up top.

Storified by The Columbian · Mon, Jun 04 2012 16:36:46

During filing week, two Democrats enter to run against Pike, and Dale Smith drops out of the race. The two Democrats are David Shehorn, 67, and Ryan Gompertz, 19.

Columbian.com - Zarelli's departure alters 18th races

Republican state Sen. Joseph Zarelli's surprise decision to step down has shaken up the political landscape of the 18th Legislative Distr...

In April, an email faux pas by Pike makes headlines.

Columbian.com - Benton, Pike learn lessons in email etiquette

Benton, Pike learn lessons in email etiquette Email faux pas made by Republican candidate for state representative Liz Pike and state Sen...

Dale Smith endorsed by Mielke and Benton for state representative. Meanwhile, Pike is endorsed by a former state representative.

Columbian.com - Dale Smith endorsed by Mielke and Benton for state representative

Dale Smith endorsed by Mielke and Benton for state representative On Wednesday, Dale Smith announced on Twitter that he has received endo...

Columbian.com - Former lawmaker endorses Pike for state Representative

Former lawmaker endorses Pike for state Representative Former 18th District Representative John Pennington announced last week that he's ...

In March, Republican Dale Smith announces that he also will run for the seat.

Columbian.com - Newest candidate for 18th District seat no stranger to politics

A new candidate has stepped forward in hopes of becoming state representative for the 18th District, and he's no stranger to running for ...

www.electdalesmith.com

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In January, Republican Liz Pike announces she will run to replace Ed Orcutt.

Columbian.com - Pike will run in the 18th District

Former Camas city councilwoman Liz Pike announced Monday that she will run for state representative in the 18th District. Pike was motiva...

Home

Liz invites 18th District constituents to contact her about issues of concern! Liz wants to hear from citizens in the 18th District.

The state's finalized redistricting plan puts Orcutt in the 20th Legislative District. He says he plans to run for state representative in his new district.

Columbian.com - UPDATE: Washington Legislature approves redistricting plan

State lawmakers on Wednesday approved a plan that redraws voter district lines in a way that kicks state Rep. Ed Orcutt, R-Kalama, out of...

It looks as if the state's redistricting plan might boot state Rep. Ed Orcutt, R-Kalama, out of the 18th Legislative District

Columbian.com - Rep. Orcutt may run for the 20th District

State Rep. Ed Orcutt, R-Kalama, said Thursday he plans to run for the 20th Legislative District if a proposed redistricting map that woul...

State Rep. Ed Orcutt | The Columbian

Legislative District: 18 Party: Republican Residence: Kalama Olympia Office: 408 John L. O'Brien Building, Olympia, WA 98504 Olympia Phon...

Googlesyndication

WA Senate race in 49th District 2012

The Columbian — Wed, 16 May 2012 23:47:36 GMT

The story of the race to become Washington's state senator from the 49th Legislative District. (located in Clark County). This story is told in reverse chronological order, with the newest information up top.

Storified by The Columbian · Wed, May 16 2012 16:47:36

In May, Cleveland hosts her campaign kickoff event. U.S. Sen. Patty Murray, outgoing state Sen. Lisa Brown, D-Spokane, and retired state representative Val Ogden attend.

Columbian.com - Candidates kick off campaigns with big-name guests

Candidates kick off campaigns with big-name guests What do U.S. Rep. John Boehner, U.S. Sen. Patty Murray and outgoing state Sen. Lisa Br...

Ellingtoncms

In April, Stober drops out of the race to focus his efforts on the fight to approve Referendum 74, which would uphold a recent law allowing same-sex couples to marry.

Columbian.com - Stober leaves Senate race to fight for gay marriage law

Vancouver businessman and equal rights advocate Ty Stober announced last week that he's abandoning his state Senate race because he wants...

Ty Stober for State Senate 49th LD

Today, Tuesday, March 27, Ty Stober announced he is ending his campaign for the Washington State 49th legislative district Senate seat. S...

Listen to @TyStober talk about Washington Marriage Equality on @KBOOOutLoud 90.7 FM at 6 pm or http://KBOO.org.
— Ty Stober for Senate · Tue, Mar 06 2012 17:51:51

About a week later, businessman and equal-rights activist Ty Stober says he will also run in the race as a Democrat. Stober said Cleveland has a great reputation in Vancouver, but he would like the public to have multiple candidates to choose from.

Columbian.com - Vancouver businessman-activist to seek 49th District Senate seat

Another Democrat has come forward to run for the 49th District state senator seat being vacated by Vancouver Democrat Craig Pridemore. Va...

Tonight we kick it off at Angst Gallery in downtown Vancouver. 5:30-7p 1015 Main St. #FightingForABetterTomorrow
— Ty Stober for Senate · Wed, Feb 22 2012 07:58:44

In February, health care administrator and lobbyist Annette Cleveland announces she will run as a Democrat to replace Pridemore.

Columbian.com - Health care worker announces run for Pridemore's seat

A Vancouver health care administrator and self-described policy wonk announced Thursday that she will run for the 49th District senate se...

Annette Cleveland for State Senate

I have spent nearly 30 years serving our families and communities behind the scenes promoting jobs and economic development, supporting w...

In the fall of 2011, state Sen. Craig Pridemore, D-Vancouver, says he will not seek re-election and will run instead for state auditor.

Columbian.com - Pridemore to run for state auditor's post

State Sen. Craig Pridemore announced Wednesday that he will run for state auditor in the 2012 election and will begin campaigning for the...

WA House race, Pos. 2, in 17th District 2012

The Columbian — Wed, 16 May 2012 23:53:30 GMT

The story of the race to become Washington's Position 2 state representative from the 17th Legislative District. (located in Clark County). This story is told in reverse chronological order, with the newest information up top.

Storified by The Columbian · Wed, May 16 2012 16:53:30

Paul Harris files for re-election during filing week, which ends May 18. Harris is serving his first term and was chosen by voters over Democrat Monica Stonier in the 2010 election.

State Rep. Paul Harris | The Columbian

Legislative District: 17 Party: Republican Residence: Vancouver Olympia Office: 427 John L. O'Brien Building, Olympia, WA 98504 Olympia P...

Columbian.com - Harris claims victory in 17th District over Stonier

Republican Paul Harris appeared to be edging out his Democratic competitor, Monica Stonier, in the 17th Legislative District in early ret...

Democrat Jim Gizzi announces in April that he will challenge incumbent state Rep. Paul Harris, R-Vancouver.

Columbian.com - Battle Ground Democrat to run against Rep. Harris

Battle Ground electrical engineer and businessman Jim Gizzi announced on Wednesday that he will run as a Democrat against state Rep. Paul...

Meet Jim Gizzi, Candidate for Washington State House of Representatives in the 17th Legislative District.

All about Jim Gizzi. Jim Gizzi believes that we need people in state government to work as hard as we do. We deserve to have legislators ...

Googlesyndication

WA House race, Pos. 1, in 17th District 2012

The Columbian — Mon, 16 Jul 2012 18:54:29 GMT

The story of the race to become Washington's Position 1 state representative from the 17th Legislative District. (located in Clark County). This story is told in reverse chronological order, with the newest information up top.

Storified by The Columbian · Mon, Jul 16 2012 11:54:29

The candidates appear on CVTV. Olson has posted her clips to youtube. You can view interviews and statements with the other candidates on CVTV's website by downloading those videos (links below).

Julie Olson candidate interview for the Clark County Video Voters' Guide - Election 2012 · votejulieolson

Search Archives - Clark-Vancouver Television - Channels 23 & 21

This is the official web site of CVTV Channel 23 & 21 for the City of Vancouver and Clark County, Washington. It includes information on ...

Julie Olson candidate statement for the Clark County Video Voters' Guide - Election 2012 · votejulieolson

Search Archives - Clark-Vancouver Television - Channels 23 & 21

This is the official web site of CVTV Channel 23 & 21 for the City of Vancouver and Clark County, Washington. It includes information on ...

Olson and Stonier share their stances on a number of issues heading into the Aug. 7 primary election. The vote-by-mail ballots are sent out July 18.

Columbian.com - District 17 hopefuls disagree on most of the top issues

17th District House Candidates, Position 1 Matthew Homola Age: 38 Party: Republican Residence: Vancouver Campaign website Money raised: H...

Olson and Stonier are part of a larger than usual percentage of Clark County women vying for legislative seats this election season.

Columbian.com - County women aim for Olympia

Clark County has had a disappointing showing in the number of women seeking public office in recent years, but that appears to be changin...

During an editorial board meeting with The Columbian, Stonier and Olson share their positions on popular political issues this year. Homola doesn't show up for the meeting.

Columbian.com - Republican candidate gives Probst a B- grade, Benton a B

Republican candidate gives Probst a B- grade, Benton a B When legislative candidates Julie Olson and Monica Stonier faced off in a meetin...

By mid-June, Olson and Stonier have raised close to the same amount of money. Olson had raised about $1,000 more. Homola doesn't have to file a campaign finance report with the Public Disclosure Commission because he doesn't plan on raising or spending more than $5,000 on his campaign.

Columbian.com - Incumbents have edge in campaign fundraising

In arguably the highest profile legislative race in Clark County, incumbent Republican state Sen. Don Benton is out-fundraising his chall...

Meanwhile, Mike Appel drops out of the race, citing poor fundraising. "As they say, 'All good things must come to an end,'" Appel writes on his campaign website.

Columbian.com - Mike Appel drops out of state representative race

Mike Appel drops out of state representative race Vancouver purchasing agent Mike Appel announced on Monday evening that he will no longe...

Elect Mike Appel | Washington State Legislative District 17, Position 1

As they say, "All good things must come to an end", along with "Timing is everything" - the timing says that it is time to "suspend" my c...

During filing week, a relatively unknown candidate, Republican Matthew Homola, files to run in the race to replace Probst. It's his first time running for public office.

Columbian.com - UPDATE: New candidate emerges to run for Probst's vacated seat

Republican Matthew Homola, 38, of Vancouver, has filed to run for the 17th Legislative District seat being vacated by Rep. Tim Probst, D-...

Republican warehouseman joins race for House seat

Tim Probst, D-Vancouver. Matthew Homola, 38, of Vancouver said he is running for office because he wants to try to fix the political prob...

Stonier gives a campaign speech during the 2012 Clark County Democratic Convention.

WA Senate race in 17th District 2012

The Columbian — Tue, 12 Jun 2012 21:34:45 GMT

Storified by The Columbian · Tue, Jun 12 2012 14:34:45

The race may be key in defining the senate majority.

MT @col_politics: The Benton/Probst race in the 17th Dist. is one to watch this election season. @col_olympia explains: http://goo.gl/al9AF
— The Columbian · Mon, Jun 11 2012 16:40:04

Senate control may rest on Vancouver

Don Benton, R-Vancouver, center, talks with Sen. Jeff Baxter, R-Spokane, right, on the Senate floor on April 13, 2011. Behind Benton is S...

People following the 17th District race chime in:

Senator Benton asking CC commish to change stance on fireworks not allowing sales on firewrks after july4
— Lynda Wilson · Tue, Jun 05 2012 18:33:46

Good Luck to Tim Probst!
— Troy Maxcy · Sun, Jun 03 2012 23:16:03

Probst files his candidacy paperwork during filing week, which ends May 18.

Officially filed this morning as a candidate for the State Senate in the 17th Legislative District!
— Elect Tim Probst · Wed, May 16 2012 13:27:39

Republican warehouseman joins race for House seat

Tim Probst, D-Vancouver. Matthew Homola, 38, of Vancouver said he is running for office because he wants to try to fix the political prob...

In days leading up to filing week, candidates gather endorsements.

What a great day at the COPE Convention today! Thank you to the Washington State Labor Council for their endorsement.
— Elect Tim Probst · Sat, May 05 2012 20:42:55

Columbian.com - A few days before candidate filing week, endorsements abound

A few days before candidate filing week, endorsements abound During the days leading up to candidate filing week, several Southwest Washi...

On May 4, Benton makes the announcement that he will seek re-election. So far, it looks like the race will be between Benton and Probst.

Columbian.com - Benton to seek re-election to Senate

State Sen. Don Benton, R-Vancouver, made the official announcement Friday that he will seek re-election for his 17th District seat. Bento...

Benton Announces Re-election Campaign | Facebook

State Senator Don Benton announced that he will run for reelection in the 17th Legislative District. Benton played in a key role in the a...

It's confirmed on April 22. Probst is running for Senate rather than seeking re-election.

Columbian.com - Probst running for state Senate

State Rep. Tim Probst, D-Vancouver, has announced he will run for the 17th District state Senate seat currently held by Don Benton, R-Van...

In mid-April, state Rep. Tim Probst, D-Vancouver, said he is considering whether he shouldn't seek re-election -- and instead run for senator in his district, against incumbent state Sen. Don Benton, R-Vancouver.

Columbian.com - Probst considering a run against Benton

State Rep. Tim Probst, D-Vancouver, said on Tuesday that he is considering a run for the 17th District state Senate seat currently held b...

Googlesyndication

WA 3rd Congressional District race 2012

The Columbian — Sat, 30 Jun 2012 00:04:19 GMT

The story of the race to become Washington state's U.S. representative from the 3rd District (located in Southwest Washington). This story is told in reverse chronological order, with the newest information up top.

Storified by The Columbian · Fri, Jun 29 2012 17:04:19

"Sabato's Crystal Ball" -- a project of the Center for Politics at the University of Virginia -- predicts the first-term congresswoman is "likely" to win re-election.

Columbian.com - Political forecaster says Herrera Beutler re-election a safe bet

Political forecaster says Herrera Beutler re-election a safe bet It sounds a little hokey, but "Sabato's Crystal Ball" -- a project of th...

Jon Haugen doesn't get much support during the Washington State Democratic Convention.

Tough crowd at #WADEMS, only Demo for 3rd Cong Jon Haugen doesn't get "nomination" by convention. #WAELEX
— Peter Callaghan · Sat, Jun 02 2012 14:48:02

Fight in SW Washington...move to endorse only D in 3rd Cong, Jon Haugen being opposed by half of delegates from district. #WADEMS #WAELEX
— Peter Callaghan · Sat, Jun 02 2012 14:42:58

Former Democratic congressman for the 3rd District says he won't endorse Haugen.

Columbian.com - Baird sounds off on Clark County politics, issues

Videos at bottom of story See the entire Brian Baird interview with The Columbian's Editorial Board at the bottom of this story. Former 3...

U.S. Rep. Jaime Herrera Beutler, R-Camas, kicks off her campaign May 25 with a well-known guest: House Speaker John Boehner. Her event draws a few dozen protesters.

Columbian.com - House Speaker Boehner will be in Vancouver May 25

Congresswoman Jaime Herrera Beutler will have a big-name guest in attendance at her campaign kickoff event on May 25: Speaker of the Hous...

House Speaker Boehner will headline Herrera Beutler's event in Vancouver. http://tinyurl.com/6tsya6m
— Secretary of State · Mon, May 07 2012 11:09:18

Columbian.com - Herrera Beutler's campaign kickoff draws about 70 protesters

With U.S. House Speaker John Boehner as a guest, U.S. Rep. Jaime Herrera Beutler, R-Camas, kicked off her campaign for re-election on Fri...

Herrera Beutler's campaign kickoff brought in about $50,000. (new blog post) http://goo.gl/07cNa
— Stevie Mathieu · Mon, Jun 04 2012 12:00:06

Toward the end of filing week, Independent Norma Jean Stevens also enters the 3rd Congressional District race. She ran for the same office in 2010.

Columbian.com - Norma Jean Stevens: Use 'common sense' in budget

Norma Jean Stevens made her debut as a candidate for the open 3rd Congressional District just over a month ago, when she filed for the se...

Columbian.com - UPDATE: Zarelli will be leaving state Senate

Zarelli's statement Zarelli to step down after 17 years as 18th District state senator OLYMPIA... Sen. Joseph Zarelli, R-Ridgefield, has ...

On May 18, filing week ends. The only two candidates in the race for Washington's 3rd Congressional District are incumbent Herrera Beutler and challenger Haugen.

Herrera Beutler quoted in The Daily News about the spotted owl and the Northwest Forest Plan: "We want to restore what has been lost, but we do so in a way that respects wildlife and the endangered American wage earner."

Congressional panel debates Northwest Forest Plan's future in Longview

Former President Bill Clinton's two-decade old federal forest management plan has killed thousands of jobs and failed to adequately prote...

Herrera Beutler hosts another community coffee on May 1 in Ridgefield. She makes known who she favors in the races for the two open Clark County Commissioner seats.

Columbian.com - Constituents question Herrera Beutler on health care, CRC

Southwest Washington residents asked their Congresswoman Jaime Herrera Beutler about health care for small businesses, the Interstate 5 C...

Washougal Gunshots and Housefire

The Columbian — Thu, 08 Dec 2011 01:47:59 GMT

Shortly after 8 a.m. today, gunshots were reported at a Washougal house that was also burning down. Here's how the horrific events played out online ...

Storified by The Columbian · Wed, Dec 07 2011 17:47:59

Here's how it all began ...

BREAKING NEWS: #Washougal firefighters responding to house fire on "F" St.; unconfirmed reports of shots fired; SWAT team being called out
— KPAM 860 · Wed, Dec 07 2011 17:31:36

KFV's out the door to Washougal for reported fire & gunshots. I'm working the phones. Anyone in Washougal down at F Place?
— April Baer · Wed, Dec 07 2011 17:31:36

BREAKING:Washougal Schools "Our schools are secured, parents are asked not to call or travel to the schools involved or to the bus barn."
— Chad Carter · Wed, Dec 07 2011 17:31:36

Photos from the scene started trickling in while the first fire still raged. Thanks, Amy and Rod, for sending your photos our way today!

RT @thecolumbian: We have this photo from near the scene of this morning's fire in Washougal, courtesy of @AmyJSmith776. http://pic.twitter.com/ehEBJSHh · Amy Smith

Another photo from the Washougal fire, also courtesy of Rod Walters. Latest news on the fire here: http://www.columbian.com/news/2011/dec/07/reports-fire-gunshots-washougal/ http://pic.twitter.com/nIV5QcYn · The Columbian

This tweet sums up the community's tense feelings pretty well.

Shots fired, explosives going off - Washougal neighbors at F Place - say it sounded like a war zone. House on fire. Schools locked down.
— AM1550KKOV · Wed, Dec 07 2011 17:31:36

Reader and Washougal resident Jenny McCullough was nice enough to pass along some video and photos she took.

Neighbors' footage of Washougal house fire (Dec. 7, 2011) · columbianphoto

Another photo of the fire raging in Washougal, this one courtesy of Jenny McCullough. Our story: http://www.columbian.com/news/2011/dec/07/reports-fire-gunshots-washougal/ http://pic.twitter.com/w9f09CRy · The Columbian

Shortly before noon, another explosion rattled Washougal. It was believed to have been caused by an exploding propane tank.

Another explosion at #Washougal home. http://twitpic.com/7pwzca · Columbian Metrodesk

KATU reporter said he just saw a "huge fireball" at the scene of the #Washougal fire/shooting. http://k2ne.ws/v1qqUD
— KATU.com · Wed, Dec 07 2011 17:31:36

Neighbors say man who's house is scene of fire-shooting in Washougal had lots of fireworks. Two neighbors say they heard fireworks going off
— Kyle Iboshi · Wed, Dec 07 2011 17:31:36

As the morning wore on, we learned more about the man who tknocked on the door of the burning house, only to be met with gunfire.

Columbian.com - Washougal standoff: Instinct to help becomes instinct to survive

By Eric Florip Columbian Staff Reporter Bobby Bean didn't hesitate when he noticed flames coming from a house on F Place in Washougal on ...

Just heard more gunfire, more smoke coming up. #washougal
— Jen Connelly · Wed, Dec 07 2011 17:31:36

Jenny McCullough sent along another video, this from the second fire.