100 years ago
On Nov. 19, 1923, The Columbian reported that teachers from 18 Clark County school districts formed a “Teachers’ Council of Community Center No. 1, Clarke County.” The new council’s purpose was to “further the best interests of the teaching profession; to work for the extension of the sphere of social usefulness of the school and to assist in organizing community assemblies representing all districts in the Teachers’ Council.” The organization would meet the following month, with Mrs. Frances Hanna presiding as president, to discuss “nutrition work.”
75 years ago
On Nov. 19, 1948, Vancouver city officials received an award for their “many accomplishments in the promotion of traffic safety.” Some of the achievements included a “thorough study of traffic flow,” creation of pedestrian and school lanes, and mapping of school zones.
50 years ago
On Nov. 22, 1973, The Columbian explored lengthening wait times for new food stamp applicants in Clark County. Local administrator Jane Hawkins said delays were due to seasonal increases and the “conversion of some assistance categories to a federal program.” New applicants were required to “interview with a worker who will determine their eligibility.” Vancouver had two eligibility workers in the office of public assistance. Hawkins said wait times would ease after the new year.
25 years ago
On Nov. 22, 1998, an event at Vancouver Mall attracted 12,000 people and raised $70,000 (about $131,000 in today’s dollars) for local nonprofits by featuring the hottest toy of the day: Beanie Babies. Lines formed as early as 9 a.m. — 10 hours before the shindig started. The first 500 ticket-holders through the doors received a Beanie Baby. The next 500 got a free copy of Mary Beth’s Beanie World Magazine. The highlight of the night was two auctions for Beanie Babies and other prizes.
Katie Bush is public historian at the Clark County Historical Museum.
