As resident of Bellingham since 1976, and the spouse of Robert Biederstadt, an employee of a Cherry Point industry for over 35 years, I can personally attest for the family-wage jobs that are created by having a strong industrial base here in Whatcom County. It is jobs like the ones that will be created by the Gateway Pacific Terminal that will lead this county into a vibrant and strong future.

Historically, Cherry Point has been the main source of safe, environmentally conscious and economically secure jobs for Whatcom County. I believe that the Gateway Pacific Terminal will be a great addition to the Cherry Point family as well as a cornerstone for all of Whatcom County. I say this because of SSA Marine's commitment to a thorough environmental study as well as their history here in Whatcom County as Bellingham Stevedoring.

There are so many great benefits to this project that are overlooked by the hysteria that is generated by outside opposition groups. I encourage supporters to join me and enthusiastically voice your support for the Gateway Pacific Terminal. As for my family and I, you can consider us another family voting for coal!

Janet Biederstadt

Bellingham