By special request

Little notes: I've been in this business now for 40 years and have learned a few things. One is that it is tempting but ill advised for local elected officials, during their meetings, to toss "story requests" to members of the press. The reporters are there for purposes other than creating an announcement for the elected officials. For best results, officials should contact the news desk during regular business hours.

I was on the receiving end of two such requests in meetings I covered Monday and Tuesday. I'll do the best I can with them.

1. Cathlamet Mayor Dale Jacobson would like people to know that the Cathlamet Fire Department is looking for new volunteers to serves as fire fighters and/or emergency medical technicians. The community is not large enough to support paid staff, so volunteers do valuable service. Comment: Amen.

2. Dan Cothren, chair of the county board of commissioners, would like hunters and others interested local efforts to address the elk hoof rot issue to know that they can contribute to the efforts and costs incurred by Dr. Boone Mora of Skamokawa, who researched, prepared and distributed information at a recent meeting about the issue. Cothren said Mora's costs totaled around $350, and after his contribution, donations of another $250 would be welcome. Checks may be sent to Boone Mora, 38 Middle Valley Road, Skamokawa. Comment: Dr. Mora has put a lot of time and effort into this work and deserves support.