"I wanted my own things," said Mr. Beard, who is 41 now.

Before he committed money, however, Mr. Beard wanted some research on the energy market.

"I used to work on the sell side" at a large brokerage firm, Mr. Beard said.

"The council's vote is an important step in the right direction," Mr. Beard said.

Mr. Beard said he did not recall the tusk's penetrating his leg.

Mr. Beard said he bore no ill feelings toward the elephants.

Mr. Beard was a significant ally in her crusade.

Mr. Beard, who died in 1985, was born on May 5.

Mr. Beard, 49, had the support of most Democratic organizations and labor leaders.

"He'd bring things in not only on time but early," Mr. Beard said.