GOP to hold memorial service in Bothell church

OLYMPIA – State Republicans say a memorial service for Ronald Reagan is planned Friday in the Seattle suburb of Bothell.

The day will not be a state or school holiday, state officials said.

State Republican Chairman Chris Vance and GOP Senate candidate George Nethercutt said the public memorial service was planned for 3 p.m. at Cedar Park Assembly of God Church.

The state GOP posted a tribute to Reagan on the party Web site. Vance said Reagan “remade our party, America and the world.”

Nethercutt, the 5th District congressman, said he will suspend campaigning on Friday, closing his Bellevue and Spokane offices for the day.

Friday will be a national day of mourning, with all federal offices and major financial markets closed.

Gov. Gary Locke said state offices will remain open Friday. Only the Legislature can authorize a state holiday, he said.

Flags are at half-staff in Washington state until July 6 in memory of the late president.

State school chief Terry Bergeson said that, given Locke’s announcement, all schools should remain open on Friday.