State issues burn ban in protected forest lands

The state Department of Natural Resources announced burn bans on all state-protected forest lands, effective this week. The ban, which applies to all outdoor burning, runs through Sept. 30.

“The threat of wildfires from escaped outdoor burning is high during the summer months due to unusual fire danger,” Commissioner of Public Lands Peter Goldmark said in a news release. “Wildfires are dangerous for people and property and result in large expenditures of public funding that can be avoided through prudent actions to prevent them.”

Exceptions to the ban include recreational fires in approved campground fire pits, state-approved prescribed fires or fires approved in writing by the state.

Spaces still available for mechanical engineering degree at Olympic College

Late enrollments are now being accepted in the bachelor of science in mechanical engineering program being offered through Olympic College and Washington State University. Classes begin August 23 for fall semester and applications will be accepted until classes begin.

“There are many students that may have waited to apply, and the late enrollment process allows these students to still have an opportunity to enroll in time for the fall semester,” said Judi Brown, dean of math, engineering, science and health at Olympic College.

About 11 students have currently enrolled in the program, with 15 total students expected by the beginning of the semester.

The bachelor of science degree is available to students who have completed the associate of science degree at Olympic College or another community college. Students interested in fields such as aerospace, manufacturing, materials, controls, mechanical design or thermal design should consider applying.

For more information, please visit www.mme.wsu.edu/olympic or contact Jeffrey Brown at (360) 475-7738, jjbrown@olympic.edu , or Annette Cavalieri at (509) 335-2727, acavalieri@wsu.edu.

Red Cross offering August classes in Bremerton

The American Red Cross is offering CPR, first aid and other preparedness classes in Kitsap County during the month of August. All classes will be held at the West Sound Service Center, 811 Pacific Ave., Bremerton. Special classes may also be arranged at workplaces and community groups. All classes are taught by certified Red Cross volunteers. Class fees support Red Cross services and programs in our community. Continuing Education Units are now available for many classes. Call (360) 377-3761 for more information.

Adult CPR ($36)

Tuesday, August 10 from 5:30 to 9:30 p.m.

Tuesday, August 24, from 5:30 to 9:30 p.m.

Adult, Infant and Child CPR ($46)

Saturday, August 14, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Blood-Borne Pathogens Annual Recertification – Additional $10.00

First Aid ($36)

Thursday, August 26, from 5:30 to 9:30 p.m.

Adult CPR with First Aid ($55)

Saturday, August 21, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Adult, Infant and Child CPR and First Aid ($70)

Saturday, August 7, from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.

CPR for the Professional Rescuer and Healthcare Provider ($74)

Friday, August 13, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

CPR and First Aid Review ($38)

Friday, August 20, from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.

3-hour HIV/AIDS and Blood Borne Pathogens ($21)

Saturday, August 7, from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m.

7-hour HIV/AIDS Prevention ($65)

Sunday, August 15, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Cat and Dog First Aid ($38)

Saturday, August 28, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.