Front Porch

EVENTS

Sept. 11 memorial service

North County Fire & EMS plans to honor the firefighters who lost their lives at the World Trade Center on Sept. 11, 2001.

Starting at dawn on Sept. 11, the fire authority will line Highway 532 with 323 American flags to honor each first responder who died 18 years ago.

At 10 a.m., fire engines will begin a slow procession along the highway toward the fire station at 8117 267th St. NW, Stanwood.

The Stanwood High School band and drum section is set to perform, and the American Legion plans to present the flag. Officials from the fire authority, the Snohomish County Sheriff’s Office and the Navy will speak.

A memorial service is set to take place from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. There will be hot dogs and refreshments, and a bouncy house for kids. The fire station also will be open for tours. All are welcome.

More info: Call 425-789-8036 or email jcermak@northcountyfireems.com

Abilities Day

Those with disabilities are invited to enjoy fall farm activities in a calmer environment, from noon to 5 p.m. Sunday at Bob’s Corn & Pumpkin Farm, 10917 Elliott Road, Snohomish.

There will be a corn maze, hay rides, cow train, big slide, corn crib and other activities with smaller crowds and less sounds. Headphones to reduce noise will be available.

Tickets are $15, and that covers the entry fee for a caregiver. A limited number of tickets are available. Sign up at sherwoodcs.org/events. Scholarships are available.

More info: cwest@sherwoodcs.org or 425-375-4306

OPPORTUNITY

Give blood for kids

September is Childhood Cancer Awareness Month, and the American Red Cross encourages eligible donors to give blood to support kids, teens and young adults battling cancer, as well as others in need of transfusions.

The National Cancer Institute estimated that more than 15,000 children and adolescents in the U.S. would be diagnosed with cancer last year.

Childhood cancer patients may need blood products on a regular basis during chemotherapy, surgery or treatment for complications.

Blood and platelet transfusions can enable patients to receive critical treatments needed to fight and survive cancer.

Platelet and blood donors of all blood types are urgently needed to replenish the blood supply following a summer blood shortage. As a thank-you, those who come to give Aug. 30-Sept. 3 will receive a unique Red Cross canvas tote bag, while supplies last.

Make an appointment to donate by downloading the free Red Cross Blood Donor App, visiting RedCrossBlood.org or calling 1-800-RED CROSS. Blood drives also help ensure blood is available for patients this winter.

To learn more and sign up to host a blood drive, visit RedCrossBlood.org/HostADrive.