Editor,
I am writing in regard to the Reflector article of April 6, and my perspective of the poor maintenance I have personally experienced with the management company of the Gardner Center.
My name is Jim Demetro and I am the sculptor commissioned by Elie Kassab to provide seven life-size bronze statues in front of various businesses throughout the Gardner Center. I also provided instructions on the care and maintenance of the artwork.
Over a period of time I noticed damage to three of the statues. The statue with children and a birdbath in front of the Subway sandwich shop had the bird broken off the child’s hand. The globe statue in front of the fitness center originally had five children on top, and all are missing. The statue of the famous explorer Meriwether Lewis by the dental office had a replica coin in his hand that President Jefferson had minted to give to the Native Americans.The coin is missing. The statues in the pond area by Mill Creek restaurant were never taken care of and the pond was full of algae.
I contacted the management company many times trying to help them in the repair and maintenance of the statues with absolutely nothing ever getting done. Interestingly enough, the statues of Elvis Presley and Marilyn Monroe in front of the movie theater are in pristine condition because Elie Kassab, the owner of the theater, has his staff take care of them on a regular basis, and it is quite easy and fast to do.
The artwork is an attraction for visitors and the residents of Battle Ground.
I take pride in my artwork, and each statue is crafted to the highest standard. Finally last year I could not stand seeing the artwork abused and not being taken care of for over 10 years. I spent time scrubbing and polishing the statues by the pond. I never billed the management company. They promised to get the rest of the statues done but I am still waiting.
Elie Kassab is one of the few developers that appreciates art and its contribution to the community. He wants to enhance and provide a special viewing experience to the patrons of his projects, and make our world more beautiful. It is a shame that the owners and management of the Gardner Center just do not seem to care.
Jim Demetro
Battle Ground
