County Executive Kremen would like to hear from the residents of Whatcom County

Tuesday July 22 the County Council passed a one-tenth of 1% sales tax increase.

The tax funds will go to providing services that fill in gaps for people who are dually diagnosed with mental health conditions and substance abuse.

This will include the creation of a mental health court, so that offenders who are have both mental health and substance abuse issues can get treatment as opposed to jail time.

The funds will also decrease the wait time for individuals needing substance abuse treatment.
They will increase the number of people who can be served in the drug court.

Many individuals with developmental disabilities also have a mental health condition. The services provided for by the tax will increase the long term supports and services available to such individuals.

County Executive Pete Kremen is looking for input from the residents of Whatcom County as he considers whether or not to veto the tax.

He is hoping to make a decision by 5:00 p.m. Monday, July 28.

Comments may be sent to his email at pkremen@co.whatcom.wa.us or
360-676-6717

A one-of-a-kind spectacular event!

You and your family are invited to this one-of-a-kind spectacular event with FREE food, performers, inflatables, face painting, clowns and more!!

Come to this annual event that celebrates all that Bellingham has to offer for kids.
Everything is FREE!

Saturday, August 2
Bloedel Donovan Park,
2214 Electric Ave
11:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m.

Free shuttle from Civic Field

8th annual Autism Day

Autism Day is a free, fun-filled event designed for families touched by autism - a chance to relax in a beautiful setting surrounded by people who understand.

Various individuals, companies, service providers and organizations wishing to reach out to the autism community provide free activities with our children in mind.

Activities include hayrides, a giant slip-n-slid, a "donation-per-plate' lunch catered by Sherm's BBQ of Issaquah, and a "Preposition Parade."

A quiet area will be provided away from the group under the grape arbor.

No fees and no reservations needed.
The farm event is open to the community. Just come and relax in the supportive and beautiful environment!

Jubilee Farms
229 West Snoqualmie River Rd NE
Carnation, WA

Saturday, August 9
11:00 a.m. -3:00 p.m.

There are still a few spaces left for the August Forum.

The Forum is designed for incoming high school juniors and seniors with disabilities (as of July 1, 2008) who want to be or are leaders in their schools and communities.

It is an opportunity for them to continue to learn the skills of leadership and citizenship as well as developing their personal and social skills.

The project is funded through donations, so it can be offered at NO COST TO STUDENTS (including transportation).

To apply, please immediately
contact Debbie Himes at
(360) 438-3246 (voice) or
(360) 438-3167 (TTY) or
email at dhimes@esd.wa.gov

August 10-15, 2008 at
The Evergreen State College, in Olympia