Name: Jason Dahlstrom Family members: wife Crystal, son Jaxon 14, son Boomer 12, daughter Ellie 8

My Story: I am the Scoutmaster of Troop 4026 in Ferndale. My family has been hugely impacted by Scouting and as such, we put a lot of time and energy into the program. Every Monday night we meet and work on teaching 11-15 year old Scouts how to be good leaders and citizens. I absolutely LOVE it! Seeing the young men in our community learn from each other, have fun, and build lifelong relationships are the highlights for me. I think every young person needs a team working for them to succeed. I’m happy to be a part of a great team working for that cause. I’m a cheerleader. I’m that guy in the crowd clapping too loudly and yelling my kid’s name. Or your kid’s name. I love celebrating successes.

What brought me to Ferndale: I moved to Ferndale to get a fresh start. As a 15 year old, I was fed up with the toxic environment that I had grown up immersed in. I had a friend who had moved to Ferndale and invited me up. I became an emancipated minor and put myself on a better path. This community was exactly what I needed.

How long have I been in Ferndale: It’ll be 23 years this fall. I lived in Everson for a couple years and spent a year in Lynden (Sorry, we all make mistakes).

Best Ferndale landmark: I love Central Elementary. The building is classic, the location is great, and the people inside that building are all-time great Ferndaliens.

Best Ferndale memory: My first winter here there were 10′ drifts near Pioneer Center. My friend and I spent hours digging tunnels through those drifts. Also, my junior year, FHS football took second in state!

Who should we meet next: Kathy Jeffries, Central Elementary darling.