Democratic lead observer Jim Fox of Bellingham sent me his observations on Whatcom County Auditor Shirley Forslof's December retirement dinner:
"Some 90 people from here and around the state came to a retirement dinner to thank her and wish her well.
"At the retirement dinner we heard from Secretary of State representatives, State Auditor's Association members, local officials and staff. It was acknowledged by others who know, that we in Whatcom County do indeed have a very high-quality system - by design, not by accident.
"Our system was the result of long tally experience, careful attention to detail, and a dedication by staff to quality. We were fortunate to have experienced senior staff who insist that things were and are done right.
"Listening to the tributes, it was also uplifting to learn that a personal career dedicated to quality and service to the public was acknowledged and respected by co-workers who know. It is possible to hold high standards, doing right, without selling out. Shirley Forslof has left us a legacy of public service to be emulated."
FERNDALE PASTOR RECOGNIZED
Ferndale Alliance Church pastor Rev. Jon Mutchler reports that he was honored Jan. 11 in Cannon Beach, Ore., with his wife, Diane, on the 25th anniversary of his licensing to pastoral ministry in the Christian and Missionary Alliance denomination.
Matthew Boda, district superintendent of the alliance's Pacific Northwest District, commended the Mutchlers for their more than two decades of service at one church.
Diane was a kindergarten teacher in Ferndale for seven years and Jon also teaches piano and serves on the Ferndale City Council. They have seven children and have lived in Whatcom County for nearly 30 years.
Jon graduated from Western Washington University in 1983 with a music degree and from Regent College in 1987 with a Master of Divinity. The Mutchlers moved to Ferndale in 1987 to establish Ferndale Alliance Church, at Church and Thornton roads.
YOUNG VIOLINIST HONORED
Walter Michelutti reports that his 9-year-old daughter Catherine, who studies with Jane Perkins, has passed the Carnegie Hall/Royal Conservatory achievement program for Grade 2 violin. The test was conducted Dec. 2 in Tukwila by an out-of-state examiner, with no parents, teacher or coach present. Catherine had a professional pianist accompany her pieces.
Catherine is in fourth grade at St. Paul's Academy in Bellingham and plays with the North Sound Youth Orchestra at Western Washington University. She recently performed with Jane Perkins (violin) and Pall Grondal (cello) at the Port of Bellingham Holiday Festival.
SCHOLARSHIP FOR MILITARY WIFE
Erin Maltby of Bellingham received a $7,000 scholarship from the University of Phoenix AMVETS program, according to a press release.
Phoenix and AMVETS recognize the sacrifices made by service members, veterans and their families, and have awarded $350,000 through 50 $7,000 scholarships nationwide to active-duty service members, veterans and eligible family members to pursue a degree through University of Phoenix.
Erin is a full-time student and the wife of U.S. Marine Corps Corp. Tyler K. Maltby, who has served since 2007. She earned an Associate of Arts in psychology in 2009 and is currently pursuing a Bachelor of Science in business, with a concentration in human resources management.
