Girls in government camp applications due soon

The Julia Butler Hansen Heritage Center in Cathlamet is again sponsoring a week long camp for seventh and eighth grade girls from June 16-21 at the Hansen Center.

The leadership camp has been a popular one in the past when the girls spent a week at the Center having classes on government, history, manners and entertaining, caring for historic artifacts, writing and public speaking. Guests are invited to a luncheon the girls serve and cooking classes are an important part of the camp curriculum. The week-long activities culminate in a public campaign speech competition to elect the "Camp President" with those attending casting votes for the winning speech. That competition will be held on June 21. Cost for the Camp is $25. Volunteers, staff and Trustees from the Wahkiakum Community Foundation, sponsor of the Camp, are all heavily involved so there are several adults working with the students at all times.

Fun is always important for the camp. An overnight trip to Olympia with a full tour of the State Capitol is being planned. A limited number of students are invited to participate based on their applications. Students from both Wahkiakum and Naselle/Grays River Schools are encouraged to apply and participate. The application process is not long or difficult and it can be done quickly. Applications are welcome through June 6.

Funding to support the Camp has come from the Bradwood Landing Fund at the Wahkiakum Community Foundation and an anonymous donor, as well as the Altrusa Women's organization from Longview.

Those interested in attending who have not already received an application packet, should contact Kayrene Gilbertsen at (360) 849-4421 for the Wahkiakum School District, or Bonnie Linquist for the Naselle/Grays River School District at (360) 777-8300.