INSIDE

Around the Point

The local Dollars for Scholars association is looking for some new blood to help students of any age reach their educational goals.
Dollars for Scholars board member Joan Roberts said the group was looking for three or four new board members. “From my point of view as a parent it was so informative,” Roberts said, encouraging parents with kids headed for college to get involved. “The information you learn because you’re in the realm, about applications, deadlines.”
Board members attend two meetings a year and participate in fundraising activities and in distributing and evaluating applications, Roberts said. Interested future board members can reach her at 945-4545.

Now in its seventh year, Dollars for Scholars provides funding for graduating high school students headed into a post-secondary program, high school students interested in summer enrichment programs, adults going back to school, or just about anyone who needs funds for an educational endeavor.

“Over the years we’ve given out over $70,000,” Roberts said, adding that last year they awarded $13,000 to local students. Applications for this year are available at the Blaine high school career center and the local library.

As the county goes ahead with ditch clearing this summer they are looking for fill-hungry property owners to take the mess.
“It’s the dirt from the ditch maintenance,” said Christy Sands with the Whatcom County public works department, adding that the composition of the fill depended on the location where ditches were being cleared.
Interested property owners should contact the public works maintenance division at 360/676-6692.

“It’s a permit process they have to go through and we have the paperwork here,” Sands said. “Any person receiving fill needs a permit and if a property owner wants anything more than what you can get under our limited permit they need to go to the county planning and development department.”

Governor Chris Gregoire today introduced a new, state-sponsored prescription drug discount card that will save Washington residents an average of 20 percent on brand-name drugs and 60 percent on generic drugs. The card will be available to all Washington residents, regardless of age or income. 

“We want to get the news out to everyone in the state who is struggling with high prescription drug costs,” said Gregoire. “There is help. Even if you don’t qualify for other discount programs, this card will save you money on prescription drugs.”

The Washington Prescription Drug Program card is available now. Enrollment forms are available on-line at www.rx.wa.gov or by calling 800/913-4146.

The program is administered by ODS, an Oregon-based pharmacy benefits management company. Mail order and specialty pharmacy services are also available through the program.