CQC will award as many as three $3,000 scholarships in
Happy Thanksgiving!
Ferndale looking for new police chief
Kevin Turner to leave Nov. 27, will become Burlington police chief
By Bill Helm Editor
FERNDALE — e City of Ferndale is now looking for a new police chief.
After eight years in the top seat, Chief Kevin Turner has resigned his position to become chief of the Burlington Police
Department. His last day at Ferndale will be Nov. 29.
According to a Nov. 19 news release from the City of Ferndale, Turner announced his departure in an Oct. 28 notice to city sta .
“ is was not an easy decision as this has been one of the most rewarding experiences of my career,” Turner told the city. “ ank you for your support of me and the PD, and the friendships we’ve built along the way. I feel immensely proud of what we’ve accomplished over the last several years, and I am honored to have
Ferndale City Council rejects tax increase
By Racquel Muncy For the Record
FERNDALE — To keep costs down for Ferndale residents, council voted not to increase property taxes during its meeting on Monday, Nov. 18.
According to City Finance Director Danielle Ingham, property tax makes up 15% of the revenue in the 2025 general fund and is estimated to be about $2.1 million.
Council Member Jon Mutchler thanked sta for not asking residents for an additional 1%.
“We all know it’s not going to kill us one way or the other,” he said.
Mutchler said this is the third year the city has been able to not increase property taxes while maintaining a healthy budget and that is something to be proud of.
A public hearing was held, and no comments were received.
After a fourth and nal budget workshop, council also held the rst of two budget hearings.
“ e 2025 budget re ects stable revenues with successful grant funding across all funds,” Ingham said.
She said successful grants have included the recent COPS grant by the Ferndale Police Department which has hired additional o cers to reach a fully sta ed police department.
According to the memo, this will help with overtime costs, which were substantial in past years while understa ed.
Ingham said areas of concern include a attening of sales tax which reduces funds for the general fund.
In a memo to sta , Ingham said sales tax is down and the funds from the utility tax are expected to decrease as the utility tax was decreased from 9% to 8%.
She said in the memo that sta strongly recommends not making any additional tax cuts moving forward.
e nal 2025 budget will be approved in December.
Council also approved a package of salaries for the senior sta members’ contract renewals.
Mayor Greg Hansen said he put together a salary study comparing City of Ferndale positions with other similar cities, spoke with the employees, looked at bene ts and other e orts to nd a fair salary for the senior sta members.
“I don’t think that is hyperbole to say that these truly are some of the best in the business here working for the City of Ferndale,” Hansen said. “ ey are to a person accomplished in their forward-
served this community with the Ferndale Police Department.”
Turner joined the Ferndale Police Department in February 2017. Before Ferndale, Turner was the Grantsville City, Utah chief of police.
“I have been in law enforcement for 28 years now and still love it,” Turner told the Ferndale Record. “I have really enjoyed my time with Ferndale and for the relationships I have here, which makes it tough to move on to this next chapter. I can honestly say the team I’ve worked with here are some of the best.”
Pioneer
In the City of Ferndale news release, Mayor Greg Hansen stated that Turner “led the Ferndale Police Department with integrity and professionalism and successfully shepherded Ferndale through the rigorous accreditation process, making Ferndale one of only two accredited agencies in Whatcom County.”
Turner explained that the accreditation is through Washington Association of Sheri s & Police Chiefs [WASPC] “and is the gold standard for police agencies.”
“I am very honored and proud that we accom-
plished becoming an accredited agency,” Turner said. “ is was de nitely a team e ort led by Lt. Matt Hu man. I am also very proud of our training program which, in my humble opinion, is second to none. I rmly believe that training increases professionalism, understanding and ultimately produces a higher quality of service for our community.”
Turner was one of four nalists the city of Burlington interviewed to replace Mike Luvera, who resigned in July. With close to three decades in
Ferndale Heritage Society looks forward to this year’s holiday festivities
By Luke Seymour Sta Reporter
FERNDALE — On Dec. 6-7, the Ferndale Heritage Society will host the 2024 Old Fashioned Christmas celebration in Pioneer Village. e holiday event will be held from 4-9 p.m. both days. Admission is $5 for adults to $3 for children. Toddlers under 1-year-old get in for free. Members of the Ferndale Heritage Society, Linda Harkleroad and Tom Brand are two of the main organizers of this year’s festivities. Harkleroad said although seasonal refreshments such as hot chocolate and apple cider will be provided, the main attraction will be the cabins.
“At the most, you pay $5 and for that much money, you’re really getting a real deal,” Harkleroad said. “You get the opportunity to go into each cabin which are each decorated with all kinds of old fashioned decorations and participate in di erent activities. Refreshments are provided at the end by WECU. ere will also be crafts for kids in the Pioneer Pavilion.”
Live musical performances will also be provided by the Ferndale High School Band and Choir, local pastor and music teacher Jon
Chief Kevin Turner will leave the Ferndale Police Department on Nov. 29 to take over as chief of the Burlington Police Department. (Photo courtesy City of Ferndale)
Dec. 6-7, the Ferndale Heritage Society will host the 2024 Old Fashioned Christmas celebration in Pioneer Village. (Bill Helm/Ferndale Record file photos)
Community Calendar
Through Dec. 5
Grief share
Sonlight Community Church is o ering
Grief Share from 6:30-8 p.m Thursdays through Dec. 5. Grief Share is a 13-week video and discussion series that covers the multiple aspects of grief on the journey toward healing from the loss of a loved one. To register, go to Grief Share. org or contact Jan DeBoer at 360-3038271. Sonlight Community Church is at 8800 Bender Road, Lynden.
Through Dec. 24
Holiday Festival of the Arts Allied Arts 45th annual Holiday Festival of the Arts, Nov. 22-Dec. 24, at 1331 Commercial St., Bellingham. More than 100 booths with local artisans and craftspeople presenting their holiday goodies, one-of-a-kind gifts, specialty food treats, jewelry, artworks from paintings to photographs, scented soaps and bubbles for a personal spa. Live local music, artist demos and workshops. Bring the kids in for free and enjoy fun, family art projects. More information: holidayfestival@al-
We gladly accept submissions for the calendar section of our newspaper. Priority will be given to educational, cultural or recreational events open to the general public sponsored by non-profit, civic, charitable, fraternal or educational organizations. All submissions are subject to review and included at editor discretion as space allows. We reserve the right to edit for content and clarity. Submissions should not exceed 150 words and include contact information. Please submit event information at least 10 business days before your event date at www.lyndentribune.com or by emailing editor@lyndentribune.com. Space is limited and we cannot guarantee placement from week to week. If you would like information on purchasing advertising space, please contact our advertising team at 360-354-4444.
liedarts.org.
Nov. 30
Fused Glass Gnome Ornaments
Fused Glass Gnome Ornaments class at Jansen Art Center, 321 Front St., Lynden. Nov. 30 from 1-2 p.m. Students will create gnome ornaments from pre-cut elements. Wide selection of colors and skin tones to choose from. Creations will be fused and ready to pick up the following week. Class is perfect for all ages and is great for some special me-time with a loved one. Special needs students are welcome with a reliable helper. More information: programs@jansenartcenter.org.
Dec. 1
Handel’s Messiah sing-along
Lynden Choral Society presents its an-
nual Handel’s Messiah sing-along at 2 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 1 at First Presbyterian Church, 1031 North Garden St., Bellingham. Messiah scores provided or bring your own. O ering for the Bellingham Food Bank. All singers welcome or just come to listen. Details: FPC at 360-734-
5510 or Tammy at 360-325-5570.
Dec. 1
Assumption Catholic School Christmas Bazaar This year’s Assumption Catholic School Christmas Bazaar will be held on Sunday, Dec. 1 from 9 a.m. until 3 p.m. at the Assumption School gym. We will showcase more than 40 local artists and crafters, a bakes sale, as well as a used book sale with all books priced at $3. For more information, visit assumptionschool.ejoinme. org/ChristmasBazaar. More information: bazaar@assumption.school.
Dec. 6
Handel’s Messiah
Lynden Choral Society will present Handel’s Messiah at 7 p.m. Friday, Dec. 6 and at 2 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 7 at the American Reformed Church, 8868 Northwood Road, Lynden. Admission is by donation. For information: lyndenchoral@ gmail.com or Allen at 973-865-0551. Dec. 6-20
sue post-secondary education in fall 2025.
e CQC will award as many as three $3,000 scholarships in 2025.
Scholarship recipients also receive a travel stipend to attend AWC’s Annual Conference in Kennewick in June 2025.
FERNDALE — e City of Ferndale is now accepting applications for the Association of Washington Cities (AWC) Center for Quality Communities (CQC) scholarship.
e scholarship is available through a statewide competitive process for high school seniors who are active in leadership in their city government, community, or school and plan to pur-
To be eligible as a rsttime applicant, a student must be:
• A Washington resident;
• Graduate from high school, completing homeschooling, or receiving a GED in spring/ summer 2025;
• Plans to continue their education at an accredited college or trade school in the 2025-2026 academic year on a half-
Tribute to Time and Place
Tribute to Time and Place: Through the Eyes and Years of Tore Ofteness, an art exhibit to feature the aerial photography of renowned professional photographer Tore Ofteness. This collection will be on display in three venues: Allied Arts, Bellingham Frameworks and Quicksilver from Dec. 6-20. Opening reception at Allied Arts Gallery, 1418 Cornwall Ave., Bellingham from 6- 9 p.m. Dec. 6.
Dec. 7
WACK Studio Tour
Whatcom County’s finest ceramic artists open their studios for holiday shopping, live demonstrations, and a window into the creative process in Whatcom Artists of Clay and Kiln (WACK) studio tour, from 11 a.m. until 5 p.m. Dec. 7-8. Tour 11 studios throughout Bellingham and Whatcom County and see the work of 25 clay artists. Shop for handmade mugs, bowls, vases, home decor, sculpture and so much more. Tour information and interactive map atwhatcomartistsofclayandkiln.org.
time or more basis; and
• Active in leadership in their city government, community, or school, either now or in the past.
Information and application materials can be found on the CQC website, wacities.org. Completed applications are due to the City of Ferndale no later than Monday, Jan. 13. Applications may be dropped o in person to Ferndale City Hall, 2095 Main St., or by email with the subject line “CQC Scholarship” to Communications and Community Relations Ocer Megan Juenemann, at meganjuenemann@ cityo erndale.org. e AWC Center for
Quality Communities is a 501(c)(3) partner with the nonpro t Association of Washington Cities. e center’s goal is to help residents understand the important role cities and towns play in Washington and to grow leaders and healthy, resilient quality communities. e Center promotes municipal leadership development and civic engagement and works to support students who demonstrate community leadership and commitment to their city. For questions or more information, contact Megan Juenemann at 360685-2353 or meganjuenemann@cityofferndale. org.
Drive for Joy helps homeless
BELLINGHAM — e sixth-annual
Drive for Joy event, presented Saturday, Dec. 7 in Bellingham by Lighthouse Mission Ministries, will collect new and practical gifts for people who are homeless.
is drive-through and drop-o event will move to a parking lot at 839 W. Holly St. near the Lighthouse Mission’s new building, according to President and CEO Hans Erchinger-Davis.
Sta and volunteers will direct people and collect new items being donated.
Some items will be packaged in festive bags and given as gifts by Lighthouse Mission Ministries on Christmas, spreading joy among homeless neighbors while providing them vital supplies.
Extra items will be distributed as part of outreach throughout the year.
People who wish to donate can drive through from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Dec. 7 and drop o coats, ponchos, non-knit hats and gloves, hand warmers, and single-serving instant drink packets.
Other needed items include twin-size blankets and sheets, hooded zip-up sweatshirts, underwear, toothpaste and toothbrushes, deodorant and towels.
New items are requested.
Also, gifts of Christmas cards and postage stamps will enable Lighthouse Mission guests to reach out to family and friends.
Since 1923, Lighthouse Mission Ministries has helped people who are homeless.
e Mission cares for as many as 400 people each day and provides a continuum of services aimed at ending homelessness through street outreach, enhanced shelters, addiction recovery, spiritual sup-
port, and aftercare.
To donate or volunteer, call 360-7335120, or visit thelighthousemission.org.
Local First Trade meeting
BELLINGHAM — Sustainable Connections invites all food businesses, artisans, seafood producers and growers to the Eat Local First Trade Meeting from 9 a.m. until 4 p.m. Tuesday, Feb. 4, 2025.
Formerly the Farm to Table Trade Meeting, e Eat Local First Trade Meeting brings together farmers, shers, chefs, food artisans, restaurants, grocers and others interested in sourcing local ingredients or selling local food.
It’s one of the leading food and farming business conferences in Northwest Wash-
ington, generating approximately $500,000 in new business-to-business sales each year. Past attendees report an average of six new sales connections as a result of the event. is year, the conference will feature an optional after-hours event, where attendees can continue to network and build connections.
is conference will be o ering facilitated networking, industry roundtables, panel discussions, a trade show, and a delicious, locally-sourced lunch.
Spanish interpretation is available upon request.
e Eat Local First Trade Meeting combines the joy of connection and the resources and partnerships to build a more resilient local food system. More information and to register now at sustainableconnections.org
Council: Rejects property tax increase at Nov. 18 meeting
Continued from A1
thinking, and they always have the city’s best interest at heart. I truly believe that we’re lucky to have all of them using their skills, their talents, their knowledge.”
Hansen also said he believes the city’s salaries and additional compensation “are very much in line with other jurisdictions that are similar to Ferndale.”
“And I think one of the things to really seriously consider here is that the cost to
replace any individual on this list is beyond what’s been o ered,” Hansen said. e 2025 rate increases vary per position with each receiving a 3.25% cost of living adjustment with a market rate adjustment on top to compensate the sta for the vast amount of work performed. e exception is the Chief of Police position, which received only a cost of living adjustment as the position will need to be lled in 2025. e total increase for all senior sta po-
sitions combined was about $86,000 for 2025. In 2026 the senior sta will receive an increase based on CPI not to exceed 5% with a 1% market rate adjustment.
Council approved the contract renewals with a 6-1 vote.
Council Member Ryan O’Leary voted no, stating that it was not due to being against the raises, but due to not having the time to look over all the information and be fully informed of his vote.
Holidays: Pioneer Park lit up for
Continued from A1 Mutchler on piano, and the Mount Baker Toppers, a nonpro t barbershop choir based out of Whatcom County. Another event the Ferndale Heritage Society will host is the Lighted Christmas Stroll rough Pioneer Village. e stroll is free and is referred to by the Heritage Society as a labor of love. e event takes place from 5-8 p.m. Dec. 13-14 and again Dec. 20-21. According to Brand, this year’s stroll features up to 95,000 Christmas lights.
“Everything is all lit up and beautiful,” Brand said. “It’s a sight you don’t get the chance to see very often.” e stroll will also feature a scavenger hunt for the children, with this year’s theme titled “Star Light, Star Bright.” Participants must try to nd and count as many stars hidden through the stroll as possible. Whoever gets the most stars wins a happy meal toy donated to the Heritage Society by the Ferndale McDonald’s.
“It is not very di cult to win,” Harkleroad said. “If they get anywhere between
two and 64 stars they get a prize.”
Both Brand and Harkleroad said each year, both the Old Fashioned Christmas and the stroll come with their own sets of challenges and high points.
“One of the major concerns that I always face is squirrels who eat through the wires on the lights,” Brand said. “So this year is all about watching out for that. We’re also constantly ghting the weather so that nothing gets into the sockets or blows a light. It’s constant maintenance around here.”
Whatcom Wonders
Tammy Yoder says volunteering means helping other people
A Lynden resident, Tammy Yoder volunteers for the following organizations: as director of Backpack Buddies of Lynden, which provides weekend meals for children in need; Citizens for Lynden Schools Bond Steering Committee; Deep Waters, a local community group that provides clean water in Honduras; as council member for Christ The Servant Lutheran Church; Children and Youth committee and Fellowship committee; as Lynden PTA Fair Booth supervisor; and on the Downtown Lynden Business Assocation, including chairing Elf on the Shelf Scavenger Hunt.
How did she begin volunteering with these organizations? Yoder said it was a matter of being in the right place at the right time.
“I've been involved in school events and committees for over 30 years,” Yoder said. “I don't remember how I got started. I saw a flyer for a Backpack Buddies program eight years ago and I knew immediately we needed to get this started in Lynden. Volunteering at Church is just part of belonging to any organizations.”
Yoder’s past volunteering e orts include: Lynden Scholarship Foundation; many church leadership roles and many Lynden School
Harkleroad said al-
though she is concerned about potential ice that could develop along the walkways, she mostly focuses on some of her favorite parts of the stroll, the main one being the lights.
“My favorite moment every year is the rst Friday afternoon about a half hour before opening,” Harkleroad said. “We send everybody home so they can get ready and come back. en I crank the music up in the park when I’m all by myself and I just look at all the lights come on. I almost cry every year, it’s so beau-
e meeting was also the nal meeting for Police Chief Kevin Turner, who joined the department eight years ago.
Hansen said in the interim retired Lieutenant Matt Hu man will come out of retirement until April while the city searches for its next chief of police. In 2023, Hu man retired from the Ferndale Police Department after 26 years of service. Turner’s next employment will be with the Burlington Police Department.
tiful and I think people are going to feel the same when they see them.” Pioneer Village is part of Pioneer Park, 2000 Cherry St., Ferndale.
More about the Ferndale Heritage Society at ferndaleheritagesociety.org. -- Contact Luke Seymour at luke@lyndentribune.com.
Tammy Yoder: In my youth … followed in my mother’s footsteps. My mom understood MLK's question ...”What are you doing for others?"
Tribune: What do you enjoy most about volunteering?
Yoder: Meeting other people and making wonderful lifelong friends that inspire me. The sense of being able to give back more to my community, hopefully more than I take from it.
Tribune: Describe a moment while volunteering that has stuck with you.
Yoder: Two come to my mind. Backpack Buddies bags of food are delivered to schools in the mornings. One very cold, windy morning, a mother was waiting outside the school. Her kids were sick and not coming to school that Friday. She came to get the food bags to help get through the weekend. When in Honduras in February, and mother at a village we were in, come up with tears in her eyes thanking us for working hard so her children did not have stomach problems all the time and could go to school. The simple things we take for granted breaks a mother's heart when they don't have access to the basic things.
Tribune: Anything else you want to add?
Yoder: Life is too short not to do something that matters.
Tribune: What would you like to tell anyone who may be interested in becoming a volunteer?
Yoder: Volunteering is helping others. We may not be able to do everything, but we can do something.
If you know of a volunteer you’d like to see the Lynden Tribune and Ferndale Record feature in our monthly Whatcom Wonders special section, please email bill@lyndentribune.com or call 360-354-4444. Thank you.
FORUM
Submitting letters or guest opinions
e Lynden Tribune and Ferndale Record newspapers encourage guest opinions as well as letters to the editor. However, submissions must refrain from attacking individuals without providing supporting documentation or a rational and legally defensible justi cation Letters should be emailed to editor@lyndentribune.com and must be received by noon Monday if they are to publish in that Wednesday’s newspaper. If letters cannot be sent electronically, they may be typewritten or neatly hand-
WHERE TO WRITE
North Whatcom Municipal City of Everson, 111 W. Main St./ PO Box 315, Everson, WA 98247, 360-966-3411; Mayor John Perry, email: mayor@ci.everson.wa.us. City Clerk/Treasurer Melanie Dickinson, email: mdickinson@ ci.everson.wa.us. Website: ci.everson.wa.us. City of Ferndale, 2095 Main St./ P.O. Box 936 Ferndale, WA 98248, 360-384-4302; Mayor Greg Hansen, 360-685-2350 ext. 1105, email greghansen@cityo erndale.org. City Administrator Jori Burnett, 360-685-2351 ext. 1104, email joriburnett@cityo erndale. org. Website: cityo erndale.org. City of Lynden, 300 4th St. Lynden, WA 98264, 360-3541170; Mayor Scott Korthuis, email korthuiss@lyndenwa.org; City Administrator John Williams, email williamsj@lyndenwa.org. City of Nooksack, 103 W Madison St, Nooksack, WA 98276, 360-966-2531. Mayor Kevin Hester kevin@cityofnooksack.com. Clerk/Treasurer Virginia Arnason, email: virginia@cityofnooksack. com. Website: cityofnooksack. com. City of Sumas, 433 Cherry St./ P.O. Box 9 Sumas, WA 98295, 360-988-5711; Mayor Bruce Bosch, email: Bbosch@cityofsumas.com. Finance Director Jennifer Bell, email: jbell@cityofsumas. com. North Whatcom Public education Blaine School District, 765 H St., Blaine, WA 98230, 360-3325881. Superintendent Christopher Granger, email: cgranger@ blainesd.org. Website: blainesd. org. Ferndale School District, 6041 Vista Drive/P.O. Box 698 Ferndale, WA 98248, 360-383-9200. Superintendent Kristi Dominguez, 360-386-9207, email: Kristi. Dominguez@ferndalesd.org. Web-
written and must be received by Friday if they are to publish in the following Wednesday’s newspaper. Letters should not exceed 300 words. Guest opinions may not exceed 500 words and must include a clear photograph of the author.
Your letter or guest opinion must include your full name, complete address and telephone number. Your address and telephone number will not be printed in the newspaper but will be used for veri cation by newspaper sta . Neither unsigned letters nor letters containing personal attacks of a libelous nature will be published.
e Tribune and Record newspapers reserve the right to edit or refuse any letter. Furthermore, space limitations
site: ferndalesd.org. Lynden School District, 516 Main St., Lynden, WA 98264, 360354-4443. Superintendent David VanderYacht, 360-354-4443 ext. 3414, email: vanderyachtd@lynden.wednet.edu. Website: lynden. wednet.edu. Meridian School District, 214 W. Laurel Road, Bellingham, WA 98226, 360-398-7111. Superintendent James Everett, email: jeverett@ meridian.wednet.edu. Website: meridian.wednet.edu Mount Baker School District, 4956 Deming Road/P.O. Box 95 Deming, WA 98244, 360383-2000. Superintendent Mary Sewright, 360-617-4600, msewright@mtbaker.wednet.edu. Website: mtbaker.wednet.edu. Nooksack Valley School District, 3326 E. Badger Road, Everson, WA 98247, 360-9884754. Superintendent Matt Galley, email: matt.galley@nv.k12.wa.us. Website: nv.k12.wa.us.
Federal President Joe Biden (D), The White House, 1600 Pennsylvania. Ave. NW, Washington, DC 20500; Public comment desk, 202-4561111; email form at whitehouse. gov/contact. Website: joebiden. com. U.S. Senator Maria Cantwell (D), 511 Hart Senate O ce Building, Washington, DC 20510, 202224-3441; Public comment form at cantwell.senate.gov/contact. Website: cantwell.senate.gov.
U.S. Senator Patty Murray (D), 154 Russell Senate O ce Building, Washington, D.C. 20510, 202-224-2621; Public comment email form at murray.senate.gov/ write-to-patty; Website: murray. senate.gov.
U.S. Representative Rick Larsen (D), 2163 Rayburn HOB, Washington, DC 20515, 202-225-2605; Public comment email form at larsen.house.gov/contact. Web-
may also preclude letters from being published. All columns and letters on the opinion page are the views of the authors and do not necessarily re ect the views of the Lynden Tribune or Ferndale Record newspaper.
Submitting articles of interest
Readers of the Lynden Tribune and Ferndale Record newspapers are encouraged to submit articles of interest for inclusion in our newspapers. Submitted articles should focus on areas of interest to the communities we serve. Opinions, complaints and politicking belong in the Let-
site: larsen.house.gov.
County Whatcom County Executive Satpal Sidhu, 311 Grand Ave. Suite 108, Bellingham, WA 98225-4082, 360-778-5200; Email: ssidhu@co.whatcom.wa.us. Website: https://www.whatcomcounty.us/415/County-Executive. Whatcom County Council Member Kaylee Galloway District 1, 311 Grand Ave., Suite 105, Bellingham, WA 98225; 360-489-9192; Email: kgallowa@co.whatcom. wa.us. Website: https://www. whatcomcounty.us/3862/Kaylee-Galloway. Whatcom County Council Member Todd Donovan District 2, 311 Grand Ave., Suite 105, Bellingham, WA 98225; 360-483-8474; Email: tdonovan@co.whatcom.wa.us. Website: https://www.whatcomcounty.us/2261/Todd-DonovanCouncil-Chair. Whatcom County Council Member Tyler Bird District 3 (Everson, Nooksack Sumas), 311 Grand Ave., Suite 105, Bellingham, WA 98225; 360-778-5021; Email: tbyrd@co.whatcom.wa.us. Website: whatcomcounty.us/2769/ Tyler-Byrd. Whatcom County Council Member Mark Stremler District 4 (Lynden), 311 Grand Ave., Suite 105, Bellingham, WA 98225; 360-935-1266; Email: MStremle@ co.whatcom.wa.us. Website: whatcomcounty.us/4305/MarkStremler. Whatcom County Council Member Ben Elenbaas District 5 (Ferndale/Custer), 311 Grand Ave., Suite 105, Bellingham, WA 98225, 360-778-5025; Email: BElenbaa@co.whatcom.wa.us; Website: https://www.whatcomcounty.us/3321/Ben-Elenbaas. Whatcom County Council Member Barry Buchanan At Large Position A, 311 Grand Ave., Suite 105, Bellingham, WA 98225;
ters to the Editor and will not run as a feature article. Articles promoting a vendor’s services, or advertisements disguised as articles, will not be accepted.
e Lynden Tribune and Ferndale Record have a separate mechanism for advertising a business, and that is where such information should be kept.
Further, during the election cycle (June through the rst week of November), no letters to the editor nor commentaries naming candidates they support will publish in our newspapers. During the election cycle we publish candidate statements and responses to questions in a Q&A format as we provide balanced election coverage. Our e orts to be accurate, as well as balanced in our coverage, are not negotiable.
360-224-4330; Email: bbuchanan@co.whatcom.wa.us; Website: https://www.whatcomcounty. us/1975/Barry-Buchanan. Whatcom County Council Member John Scanlon At Large Position B, 311 Grand Ave., Suite 105, Bellingham, WA 98225; 360-935-1523; Email: jscanlon@ co.whatcom.wa.us; Website: https://www.whatcomcounty.us 4304/Jon-Scanlon.
State Governor Jay Inslee (D), O ce of the Governor, PO Box 40002, Olympia, WA 98504-0002, 360902-4111; Public contact email form at governor.wa.gov/contact. Website: governor.wa.gov. Senator Sharon Shewmake (D), 213 John A. Cherberg Building, PO Box 40442, Olympia, WA 98504, 800-562-6000 or 360-305-0356; Public comment email at app.leg. wa.gov/pbc/memberEmail/42/2. Or email Legislative Assistant Sarah Soulliere atSarah.Soulliere@ leg.wa.gov. Website: senatedemocrats.wa.gov/Shewmake. Representative Alicia Rule (D), JLOB 334, PO Box 40600, Olympia, WA 98504-0600, 360746-3744; Public comment email at https://app.leg.wa.gov/pbc/ memberEmail/42/1. Or email Legislative Assistant Rachel Campbell at Rachel.Campbell@ leg.wa.gov. Website: housedemocrats.wa.gov/rule. Representative Joe Timmons (D), JLOB 419, PO Box 40600, Olympia, WA 98504-0600; Tollfree hotline: 800-562-6000, 360786-7854. Email: Joe.Timmons@ leg.wa.gov or public comment email at app.leg.wa.gov/pbc/ memberEmail/42/2. Or contact Legislative Assistant Hayden Jenkins at (360) 786-6854 or (360) 718-5299 or email Hayden. Jenkins@leg.wa.gov. Website: housedemocrats.wa.gov/timmons.
North Whatcom County municipal,
county governments
Lynden City Council
Lynden City Council meets at 7 p.m. the first and the third Monday of every month at the City Hall Annex, 205 Fourth St. If Monday is a holiday, then council will meet on Tuesday. Visit lyndenwa. org for more information, including council agendas, which are released no later than 24 hours before the meeting.
Everson City Council
Everson City Council meets at 7 p.m. the secondand fourthTuesday of each month at Everson City Hall, 111 W. Main St. Visit ci.everson.wa.us for meeting agendas or for more information.
Nooksack City Council
Nooksack City Council meets at 7 p.m. the first and third Mondays of the month at Nooksack City Hall, 103 W. Madison St. If Monday is a holiday, then council will meet on Tuesday. Visit cityofnooksack. com for meeting agendas or for more information.
Sumas City Council
Sumas City Council meets at 7 p.m. the secondand fourthMonday of each month at Sumas City Hall, 433 Cherry St. Planning Commission meets at 5:30 p.m. the third Wednesday of the month if needed. Other committees meet only as needed. Visit cityofsumas. com for meeting agendas or for more information.
Ferndale City Council
Ferndale City Council meets at 5 p.m. the first and third Mondays of each month. If Monday is a holiday, then council will meet on Tuesday. Meetings are held at the City Hall Annex, 5694 Second Ave. Visit cityo erndale. org for agendas and links to council and other committee meetings.
Whatcom County Council
Whatcom County Council meets the first and third Tuesdays of each month at 6 p.m. at the County Courthouse, 311 Grand Ave. Suite 105, Bellingham. Visit whatcomcounty.us for agendas and links to council and other committee meetings.
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Accounting:
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Leonard Anthoney Sund
Leonard Anthoney Sund, age 93, of Ferndale passed away peacefully at his home Wednesday Oct. 16, 2024.
Leonard was born Oct. 10, 1931 in Custer, to parents Seferin and Lenora (Berg) Sund.
He met the love of his life, Beverly Fredrickson, in high school, shortly after graduation from Ferndale high in 1949. On a dare, Leonard asked her on a date and it must have worked out, as the rest is a long, long history.
ey were married Oct. 4, 1950 at Zion Lutheran Church in Ferndale. ey enjoyed family and life together for nearly 66 years. Sadly, she passed away in 2016. Leonard and Beverly are now at peace and reunited in heaven.
Leonard spent his childhood on a small farm just outside Ferndale. Although his career took him in another direction, the farming bug never really left him. He spent much of his spare time cutting hay and raising cattle. He wasn’t one to shy away from hard work. If you asked why he farmed, it was because he liked to “watch the cows eat.”
Early in life he started out working at Berg Shipyard before being drafted in the US Army. He served from Nov. 5, 1953Nov. 4, 1955; after which he spent a few years logging, but for most of his life the journey ended up taking him into boat building. Returning to Berg Shipyard in Blaine, then Fairhaven Shipyard in Bellingham, and eventually in 1974 Leonard & Beverly along with partner Dick Nelson, began a new stage of life, starting Dakota Creek Industries in Blaine, and with success they expanded to Anacortes.
After ve years of all working together growing the new company, both Leon-
Myrna Loy Brune
Myrna Loy Brune, age 93, peacefully entered her heavenly home on Monday, Nov. 18, 2024, at Lakeside Gardens in Lynden.
Myrna was born on Jan. 4, 1931, to Bert and Jeannette (Radder) Brune in Lynden. She attended Lynden Christian Schools and was part of Lynden Christian High School’s rst graduating class in 1949. Myrna attended Calvin College in Grand Rapids, Michigan.
She spent her career at e Boeing Company as a property manager, living in Seattle and retiring in the 1990s. In 2003, Myrna returned to Lynden to be close to her family and friends.
A devoted Christian, Myrna found joy in tending her ower garden, early morning walks and co ee with her friends, passionately cheering for her favorite teams — the Seattle Seahawks and the University of Washington Huskies — and embracing lifelong learning through her love of reading. She was deeply devoted to her family and community, radiating warmth and joy
ard and Beverly decided to retire and move back to Ferndale to the family farm where Leonard could collect tractors and farm.
During his 44 years of retirement he did just that, as well as being a Whatcom County Fire commissioner, president of the board at Whatcom State Bank, Old Settlers Association board member, 2017 grand marshal of the Old Settlers Parade, Enterprise Cemetery board member for many years, and a true patriot.
Leonard was a life long member of Zion Lutheran Church, being baptized, conrmed, married and now being honored with his end of life celebration.
Leonard is survived by his two children: son, Leonard Sund of Ferndale, daughter, Lorelei (Frank) Chambers of Ferndale, ve grandchildren: Rater, Derek and Brett (Jessica) Chambers, Kenneth (Delina) Sund and Leigh Sund (Ethan Miller); and four great-grandchildren: Amelia, Elizabeth, Gavin, and Sophia.
e family would like to extend a heartfelt thanks to Home Instead (especially Tanya) and Whatcom Hospice for their loving care for our dad and family.
We miss him dearly, but take comfort in knowing he is at home with our Lord, patiently waiting for us. A private graveside service was held at Enterprise Cemetery, Ferndale. A memorial service will be held Monday, Dec. 2, 11 a.m. at Zion Lutheran Church, 7215 Valley View Road, Ferndale, with Pastor Becky Langholz o ciating. Anyone wishing to make a donation in Leonard’s memory can do so to either Zion Lutheran Church or Whatcom Hospice.
“Concerning whose who have fallen asleep, less you sorrow as others who have no hope.
For if we believe that Jesus died and rose again, even so God will bring with him those who sleep in Jesus.”
I essalonians
that brightened every room she entered and every life she touched, especially those who called her Mimi.
Myrna is preceded in death by her parents, numerous cousins, great-niece Tara Lynn Smit, and brother-in-law Dalwyn Versteeg.
Myrna is survived by her sister, Elaine (Ted) Sullivan; her niece Shelley (Randy) Smit, nephew Bruce Versteeg, and niece Kara (Daryl) TenKley, all of Lynden.
She is also survived by her great-nephew, Britton (Traci) Smit of Custer, Washington; great-niece Tessa Haveman of Lynden; and great-nephew Travis Versteeg of Lynden.
Additionally, she leaves behind her great-grandnephew Hunter (Katriel) Smit of Spokane; great-grandnieces Montana (Taylor) Schisler of Long Beach, Washington, and Summer Smit of Lynden; and her great-grandnephew Lane Smit of Custer. e memorial service and celebration of life will be held at Myrna’s house of worship, First Christian Reformed Church, on Tuesday, Nov. 26, 2024, at 11 a.m. All are welcome, and refreshments will follow the service. A private family burial will precede at Greenwood Cemetery in Lynden. Funeral arrangements are entrusted to Gillies Funeral Home and Cremation Services.
WECU expands Education Grant Program
BELLINGHAM — WECU’s Education First Grant Program, initially providing $125,000 over two years to support educational initiatives in Whatcom and Skagit counties, has received an additional boost through a partnership with the Federal Home Loan Bank of Des Moines (FHLB Des Moines). rough the FHLB Des Moines Member Impact Fund, this contribution has more than doubled to $312,500, according to a Nov. 18 news release from WECU.
e four 2024 grant recipients are Bellingham Arts Academy for Youth (BAAY), Skagit Preschool and Resource Center (SPARC), Economic Development Alliance of Skagit County (EDASC) – Startup School, and Whatcom Literacy Council.
e recipients will now have increased resources to drive their missions forward.
Turner: To leave Ferndale police on Nov. 27
Continued from A1 law enforcement, Turner will start work with Burlington on Dec. 2, the City of Burlington announced in an Oct. 28 news release.
“I am humbled and honored to be selected,” Turner said. “I was impressed with the hiring process, and with the city and political leaders that I have met. Although I will miss my Ferndale family, I am very excited to join the great city of Burlington.”
To assist in the search for Turner’s replacement, the City of Ferndale has entered into a contract for recruitment services with WASPC. In the interim, retired police o cer Matt Hu man will replace Turner. Human retired from Ferndale police in 2023 after 26 years in law enforcement. According to the city’s Nov. 19 news release, Hu man “was an exceptional leader in the department, contributing signi cantly to the
success and growth of the organization.”
“Hu man consistently demonstrated his commitment, professionalism and expertise, making a lasting impact on the department, his colleagues and the community,” the release stated.
Hu man will rejoin the Ferndale Police Department on Dec. 9. “ anks to Chief Turner’s leadership, the exceptional quality of our police o cers and sta , and Matt Hu man’s familiarity with
the department, we are able to take the time necessary to search for the right person to permanently lead the department,” Hansen stated in the press release. “As the city looks toward the search for our next chief of police, we will endeavor to include a variety of community stakeholders. We are grateful for Chief Kevin Turner’s time in Ferndale and wish him well in his new role.”
-- Contact Bill Helm at bill@ lyndentribune.com.
EVERSON-NOOKSACK NEWS
Nooksack Valley cheer off to Pearl Harbor & Disney World
to the parade,” Dewispelaere said of Pearl Harbor. “It’s a big deal. People even come from out of state. You start by the stores and walk to the end of the beach, literally.”
By Elisa Claassen For the Tribune
cheerleaders will miss a few games soon, but for good reason. Kaylee Dewispelaere and Kestyn Wagter will participate in national cheer events at Pearl Harbor and at Walt Disney World Resort. At cheer camp this summer at the Great Wolf Lodge, Dewispelaere and Wagter were selected as All Americans, or top performers. is opened more opportunities for them to do what they enjoy – cheering – and travel. e two friends decided to participate but in di erent events since Dewispelaere, a senior, had gone to Pearl Harbor last year, wanted to do something different. Wagter is a junior and didn’t have as many options but said she was impressed by Pearl Harbor. ey paid fees, sent in measurements for uniforms (which are di erent for each event) and started practicing a variety of routines called ripples, as they won’t know which one they will do until they arrive.
Once the girls arrive, they said, they will go into places such as ballrooms and are placed into smaller groups where they are given their assignments and must rely on what they learned before they came since they have little time to practice before the events.
“ e whole island comes
e Pearl Harbor Memorial Parade is in Honolulu, on Saturday. e trip is Dec. 3-9.
ey will stay at the Waikiki Beach Marriott Resort and Spa, and they will have the opportunity to tour Pearl Harbor, as well as have a luau, visit the beach and see the sights.
e Disney World event is timed for anksgiving. From staying at the resort to visiting the theme park, they will be able to enjoy themselves and make friends. Several family members of each teen are going with them to chaperone.
Both teens cheer in overlapping teams for both football and boys and girls basketball games.
Practice is weekdays after school for a few hours. As a team they also attend some of the other sports program events to give their support.
Dewispelaere said she is pretty focused on perfecting her cheerleading and also goes to NW SilverStars in Bellingham to work on tumbling and stunts. She looks forward to a college where she can continue with cheerleading.
Wagter said her other favorite sport is playing fastpitch softball for the Whatcom Wolverines, a select group that travels through the state. Anyone interested in this program must be All American cheerleaders and pay for uniforms and travel. en they will have an assortment of options of events in which they can participate in Philadelphia, Orlando, London and Rome.
Christmas in the Park at Everson City Park
Nooksack Valley High School cheerleaders Kestyn Wagter, left, and Kaylee Dewispelaere, will participate in national cheer events at Pearl Harbor and at Walt Disney World Resort. (Courtesy photo)
Sports
Basketball begins Next week
Lyncs’ run ends against defending champs
Lynden Christian battles through adversity in a season of growth and resilience
ROYAL CITY — Lynden Christian football’s season ended in the state quarter nals on Nov. 23 with a 56-12 loss to Royal, the defending state champions and No. 1 seed in the 1A playo s. While the scoreline re ected Royal’s dominance, the Lyncs showed
resilience and grit against one of the most disciplined and experienced teams in the state.
“ ey are really well-coached, very disciplined, and a very experienced team,” Lynden Christian head coach Greg Terpstra said of Royal. “We would have needed to play; you never say play perfectly, but as close to perfect as we could be to not hurt ourselves. ey were eager to capitalize on a couple of mistakes—whether it’s bad play calls by me or something else—they just were able to make us pay when we made any mistakes.”
Royal’s e ciency and killer instinct proved decisive, as the Knights took advantage of
Lynden’s title hopes end in heartbreak
Turnovers and a missed two-point conversion doom the Lions in a razor-thin rematch, but foundation for the future remains in place
FERNDALE — Lynden’s 2024 football season came to a sudden and heartwrenching end at Ferndale High School on November 23. eir dreams of a state championship were dashed in a razor-thin 10-9 loss to Archbishop Murphy in the 2A state quarter nals, a rematch of a regular-season game that Lynden had won 7-3 on their home eld.
Head coach Blake VanDalen, who has seen his share of postseason thrillers, called it a hard-fought and fair game but admitted that the outcome stung.
“ e conditions were perfect,” VanDalen said. “ ere was a little wind, but it was a fair, square game on a beautiful surface. ey got us by one. Last time, we got them by four. Obviously, two evenly matched teams and someone’s got to lose.”
For Lynden, the story of the game came down to turnovers. e Lions turned the ball over ve times, including a critical turnover on downs on the one-yard line late in the game. ose miscues loomed large in a game where both defenses kept o ensive opportunities to a minimum.
“You can’t usually win playo games when you have multiple turnovers,” VanDalen said. “We had ve. I’m more in shock that we lost by one, having that many turnovers. It tells you how hard our kids played and how much heart they showed.”
Archbishop Murphy capitalized early and used its Wing-T o ense to grab a 3-0 lead. e Wildcats exploited Lynden’s unfamiliarity with the o ense’s angles and pace, something VanDalen said is always di cult to simulate in practice.
“ at rst drive when you play a Wing-T is always tricky because our scout
team can’t simulate their size and speed,” he said. “But after that, they only got three points, and that was o one of our turnovers.” at three-point eld goal, a 52-yard bomb, proved to be the game-winner for Archbishop Murphy. With the wind at their back, their kicker nailed
Lynden Christian’s errors and showed their ability to control all aspects of the game.
“ ey don’t just pass the ball; they want to score a touchdown on the pass,” Terpstra said. “ ey don’t just break up a pass; they want to pick it o and run it back. ey don’t just make the right block; they want to block through you. at kind of focus and execution is admirable.” Despite the loss, Terpstra took pride in how his players responded to adversity.
“ e re just remained,” he said. “Absolutely nobody pointed a nger. ey just rallied up
one of the longest attempts of the season.
While turnovers were the Lions’ Achilles’ heel, their defense was the backbone that kept them in the game. Lynden allowed just 10 points, including holding Archbishop Murphy scoreless in the second half.
“Our defense was a steep learning curve at the beginning of the year,” VanDalen said. “Early on, we had to score in the 30s and 40s to win. Down the stretch, there were multiple games where opponents scored less than 10. e defense
Pioneers end season with rst league title since 2008, setting sights on greater success
WENATCHEE — Nooksack Valley entered the 2024 season with ambitious goals. ey hoped for a deep run in the playo s, aiming to reach the state championship. While the season ended with a 38-12 loss to Cashmere in the Class 1A state quarter nals on Nov. 23, the Pioneers nished the season with their rst league championship since 2008. For head coach Craig Bartl, the season re ected achievement and untapped potential.
“We thought we could get to the state championship,” Bartl said. “Obviously, we fell a little bit short. But I don’t think people thought we would do as well as we did. Winning a league championship in a conference
as tough as ours with the team that we had is a big accomplishment.” e season’s outcome validated the team’s hard work and preparation, even as it fell short of the ultimate goal. Bartl credited the players for their ability to rise to the challenges presented by a challenging schedule and a competitive league.
“Our league is one of the toughest out there, and to come out on top speaks volumes about the e ort these kids put in,” Bartl said. “Winning a league title was something that had eluded us for over 20 years, so to win it outright was a big moment for our program.”
Coming o a state semi nal appearance, the team’s preseason expectations were high,
“We expected to compete at a high level, and for the most part, we did,” Bartl said. “But it’s a long season, and there were de nitely moments where we had to dig deep to keep pushing forward.” e foundation of Nooksack Valley’s success was their performance on the offensive and defensive lines. Despite signicant turnover from the
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Nooksack Valley’s season ended on Nov. 23 with a 38-12 loss to Cashmere in the state quarter-finals (Dennis Cairns for the Tribune)
Joe Kramer Sports Editor
Joe Kramer Sports Editor
Lynden fell to Archbishop Murphy 10-9 at Ferndale High School in the state quarter-finals and their season ended (Joe Kramer/Lynden Tribune)
Joe Kramer Sports Editor
Lynden Christian fell to last year’s state champion Royal 56-12 on Saturday, Nov. 23 in the state quarter-finals
(Dennis Cairns for the Tribune)
See Nooksack Valley on B2
See Lynden on B3
See Lynden Christian on B3
Lynden: Stellar defense signals bright future
just kept getting better.”
e defense saw key contributions from cornerbacks Isaiah Oudman and Jaydin Oaks, who each recovered fumbles, as well as a defensive line that battled tirelessly against Archbishop Murphy’s strong o ensive front.
“Our kids were opportunistic,” VanDalen said. “We talked all week about how tough the Wing-T is to execute because there’s so many hando s and fakes.
e ball will hit the turf sometimes, and our guys pounced on it when it did.”
Lynden’s o ense, which had been proli c throughout the season, was stymied by Archbishop Murphy’s defense. Yet the Lions managed to create one unforgettable highlight: a 59-yard touchdown reception by junior wide receiver Brody Price in the fourth quarter.
Price’s touchdown, his rst of the season on offense, was a moment of brilliance in an otherwise grinding battle. After catching the ball in stride, Price made two defenders miss before racing into the end zone. e touchdown brought the game within one point.
“In a game where yards were hard to come by, that was possibly the big play of the game,” VanDalen said. “Brody made two guys miss, and it was a huge momentum swing for us.”
Following Price’s touchdown, Lynden opted for a two-point conversion, a decision that re ected the aggressive mindset that
had de ned their season. Unfortunately, the attempt fell short, and the Lions failed to capitalize on another opportunity to claim the lead. As di cult as the loss was, VanDalen saw it as a tting conclusion to a season de ned by growth and perseverance. Starting in June, Lynden’s o ense was already ring on all cylinders, but the defense lagged behind. roughout the season, the defense developed into a formidable unit and complemented an o ense that was among the most productive in the league.
“Our o ense was as good as we’ve ever had here when we started in June,” VanDalen said. “We knew we were going to score points. But the defense was a steep learning curve. Early on, we had to score in the 30s and 40s to win. ere were multiple games down the stretch where opponents scored less than 10.” at improvement was evident in the quarter nal rematch against Archbishop Murphy. Despite the early touchdown, Lynden’s defense kept the Wildcats at bay for the remainder of the game and allowed the Lions to stay within striking distance.
“ e cool part is that if it doesn’t hurt, it probably wasn’t special,” VanDalen said. “Because it hurts so bad, that tells you how special it was.”
For the seniors, this season was about more than wins and losses; it was about leaving a legacy. Quarterback Brant Hepner,
a three-year starter, exempli ed that mentality, both through his play on the eld and his mentorship of younger players.
“Brant has been the guy for three years now,” VanDalen said. “He’s already told me he’s excited to work with these young guys. His brother (Brock) did that for him, and now he wants to pass it on.”
Hepner’s leadership extended beyond football. VanDalen said he hopes his seniors carry the lessons they’ve learned into their lives as they transition into adulthood.
“We talk about the word legacy,” VanDalen said. “We want the young kids to play for the kids who came before them, and we want our seniors to represent the program well in life. Hopefully, they’ve learned a lot about life, not just football.”
Despite the heartbreak of the quarter nal loss and departing seniors, Lynden’s future looks bright. With a core of returning players, including three starting offensive linemen, both running backs and much of the defense, the Lions are well-positioned to contend again next year.
“ is is probably the most returners we’ve had since 2022 when we went undefeated and won a state championship,” VanDalen said. “We have many young guys who are excited to get their shot. I’m excited to get back to work with them.”
Among the returning players in 2025 includes middle linebacker Malachi Koenen. As the “quarterback” of Lynden’s defense, Koenen’s presence was un-
deniable, but his contribu-
tions extended far beyond a single position.
“If I had to pick an MVP of our team, I could make an argument for Malachi Koenen,” VanDalen said. “Here’s why: he’s the middle linebacker and quarterback of our defense. He averaged over ve yards per carry at running back toward the end of the year, and he’s one of the best kickers in the conference. He impacts the game in all three phases, which is not normal for a high school player.”
Kan’s value was most visible on defense, where he called plays, adjusted assignments on the y, and consistently made gamechanging tackles. His ability to anticipate opposing o enses and ensure his teammates were aligned correctly gave Lynden a unique edge, particularly as the defense matured late in the season.
“Malachi is the glue that holds us together,” VanDalen said. “He’s the kind of player you build a defense around. He makes everyone around him better.”
But Koenen’s impact didn’t stop there. As a running back, he became an integral part of Lynden’s o ense, particularly in the latter part of the season.
“Toward the end of the year, we were rotating our two backs 50-50,” VanDalen explained. “Malachi would give us that thunder when we needed it. He averaged over ve yards a carry, which is a testament to his toughness and football IQ.”
Koenen’s versatility also shone on special teams, where he was not only a reliable kicker but also a strategic weapon. VanDalen spoke highly of Koenen’s ability to execute precise kicko s, placing the ball exactly where it was needed to limit returns and pin opponents deep.
“When we do kicko s, I can literally tell him exactly where I want the ball to land, how high I want it to go, what I want it to spin like,” VanDalen said. “He’s a coach’s dream in that regard. His technical ability is remarkable, and that’s where you see his roots coming through. His dad, Michael, played in the NFL as a kicker, so you know Malachi’s learned from one of the best.”
VanDalen also noted that Koenen’s work ethic and leadership extended beyond the eld. As a junior, Koenen has already become a mentor to younger players, setting an example with his preparation and commitment.
“Malachi isn’t just a great player—he’s a great teammate,” VanDalen said. “He leads by example and raises the standard for everyone around him. at’s what makes him so special. He’s the kind of player that doesn’t come around often.”
Koenen’s impact on Lynden’s program has already left an indelible mark, and with another year ahead of him, his ceiling appears limitless. VanDalen hinted that Koenen’s combination of talent, versatility, and leadership could make him one of the most signi cant
players in recent program history.
“He’s just di erent,” VanDalen said. “You look at what he does on defense, o ense, and special teams, and you realize how rare it is to have someone like that on your team. We’re lucky to have him for another year, and I can’t wait to see what he’ll accomplish.”
Other key returners include running backs Max Assink and wide receivers Sam Arango and Dani Bowler. VanDalen also expressed excitement about the quarterback competition, where several young players will vie to replace Heppner.
“We have three quarterbacks coming back, all juniors and sophomores,” VanDalen said. “It’ll be an adjustment for me, but I’m excited to start all over and teach these guys what we do and why we do it.” As Lynden looks ahead, VanDalen emphasizes this season’s lessons will serve as a foundation for the future. Chief among those lessons is the value of perseverance, a quality that de ned the 2024 Lions. “ is team never quit,” VanDalen said. “Even in this last game, it felt like the cards were stacked against us, and we still had a shot right up to the very end.” For VanDalen, the season was about more than football. It was about building character, creating memories, and teaching life lessons that will last a lifetime. “ is season was about building character and a legacy,” he said. “And that’s what we’ll carry forward.”
Lynden Christian: Battling through injuries and tough schedule
and kept on ghting. As a coach, that warms my heart more than anything.”
Even as the game slipped further out of reach, the team stayed true to its identity and continued to push through challenges. Lynden Christian found some success on the ground, a result of a game plan that emphasized the run.
“I’m super proud of our kids for putting their nose to the grindstone and grinding out yards,” Terpstra said. “It was just that, if we got a holding call or something, that’d be a drive killer.”
Terpstra also noted the Lyncs’ defensive front played with heart and contained Royal’s rushing attack and forced them to heavily rely on the pass.
“ ey were passing all over the place, and they weren’t really running much or weren’t able to run much against us,” Terpstra said. Looking beyond the quarter nal loss, Terpstra re ected on a season that saw signi cant growth from a team widely considered to be in a rebuilding year. With a small senior class and numerous underclassmen thrust into key roles, the Lyncs faced a challenging schedule against top opponents.
“I don’t know if I’ve had a team that’s grown more within a season,” Terpstra said. “We played a lot of kids that, if you were to pencil it out before the season started, we didn’t think we were going to work into some spots and get a signi cant amount of time.”
e growth was most apparent in how the team responded to tough competition and injuries.
“We had a lot of kids without varsity experience—either limited or none at all—and they just grew every week,” Terpstra said. “We were so thankful not to have a bye going into the playo s because we coveted that growth every week.”
e team’s mindset going into the matchup against Royal re ected this development.
“We had people saying, ‘Don’t be afraid. You
guys could do well,’ and I appreciate those sentiments, but our kids weren’t afraid,” Terpstra said. “ ey just looked at it like, ‘ ey look good, but we can hang with these guys.’ ey were relaxed, they were chilled out, and they were ready to ght.”
Several players emerged as key leaders and playmakers throughout the season, helping the Lyncs navigate challenges and injuries. Senior Tre Boston, who played on both sides of the ball, stood out for his toughness and leadership.
“Tre is as tough as a $3 steak,” Terpstra said. “He’s got incredibly good instincts, and he’s a great team guy. I think any program would be really fortunate to have him.” e connection between senior wide receiver Boyce Robertson and junior quarterback Eli Maberry also sparked the o ense. e two cousins often turned broken plays into big gains with their backyard football chemistry.
“ ey have a special bond when it comes to turning planned routes into backyard ball,” Terpstra said. “ ey’re able to cause problems for the defense when they can break them down and nd each other open.”
Maberry’s growth as a quarterback was a highlight for the coaching sta .
“He’s a really bright kid,” Terpstra said. “Early in the season, he was just doing
what I asked him to do, but as the season went on, you could tell he started signaling back to me things he felt were open. I want this o ense to be one that they take ownership of, and by the end of the year, Eli was doing that.”
Senior Hollis Owen overcame a medical condition that caused him to lose signi cant weight before the season but battled back to contribute on both sides of the ball. Senior Mick Owen anchored the secondary until a broken leg ended his season.
“Mick took away one side of the eld until he broke his leg,” Terpstra said. “Hollis and Mick are brothers, and they both brought so much to this team.”
Injuries were a recurring theme for the Lyncs this season, as several key players missed time or played through pain. Owen was a pivotal presence in the secondary until a broken leg ended his season prematurely.
“Mick took away one side of the eld,” Terpstra said. e team also lost junior Jacob Penner, a defensive back and kicker, after he su ered a severe concussion in the playo s.
“He had to be taken o the eld in an ambulance, and it was a huge blow,” Terpstra said. Despite these setbacks, the team’s resilience shone through.
“We had so many guys playing hurt to the end,” Terpstra said.
Senior defensive lineman Austin Engels played through a chronic leg injury that eventually required surgery. Engels, a multisport athlete, prioritized his rst love—baseball—but his absence from the football eld was deeply felt.
“He kept playing as long as he could, but it was clear the injury took its toll,” Terpstra said.
Meanwhile, senior Hollis Owen battled back from a medical condition that caused signi cant weight loss and rejoined the lineup to contribute on both sides of the ball.
“He put it all back on and showed incredible toughness,” Terpstra said. ese injuries forced the coaching sta to adapt and pushed younger players into larger roles.
“We had to adjust on the y,” Terpstra said. “ e kids didn’t complain—they just stepped up.”
e adversity underscored the team’s unity and determination, hallmarks of a program built on resiliency.
“We had a lot of guys playing hurt to the end,” Terpstra said. “ ese kids just didn’t give up.”
With much of the roster returning next season, Terpstra is optimistic about the team’s potential. He emphasized the importance of o season preparation, particularly in the weight room.
“We see what we were able to do without having a total commitment to the weight room,” he said. “ e sky is the limit for what we could do with that devotion.”
e hope for the team is the playo experience gained this year will also be invaluable for the team’s younger players.
“Playing teams from all around the state is fantastic,” Terpstra said. “It gives us perspective on how difcult our league is and how much it means to get out of it.”
As the team looks ahead, the contributions of this year’s senior class will not be forgotten.
“ ey’ll be remembered as the quiet group that led with their shoulder pads rather than their mouth,” Terpstra said. “ ey battled through injuries and were just hard-nosed, tough football players.”
For Terpstra, the most rewarding part of the sea-
son was witnessing the team’s heart and resiliency. “We didn’t win these games because of brilliant coaching,” he said. “ e resiliency was built into them through a tough schedule and great leadership.”
e bonds within the team extended beyond the football eld. When Terpstra’s father passed away during the season, the entire team attended the funeral.
“I broke down like a baby seeing them there,” he said. “ at was pretty special.” As the season concludes, Terpstra’s message to his players is one of gratitude and encouragement.
“Our theme every year has been a sacri ce,” he said.
“ ese guys have taken that to heart and have embraced it. I’m very appreciative.”
While the loss to Royal may sting, the season was de ned not by one game but by the collective growth and determination of the team throughout the season. As Terpstra said, “ is group showed heart and resiliency like I’ve never seen before.”
PUBLIC NOTICES
Ferndale
LEGAL
CITY OF FERNDALE NOTICE OF NEIGHBORHOOD MEETING
Notice is hereby given that the City of Ferndale will hold a public neighborhood meeting, in accordance with FMC 18.94.010.A, for the new Ferndale City Hall. The applicant, the City of Ferndale, proposes to construct a new, 19,000 square foot (approx.) City Hall and Municipal Court Building on cityowned property in the Public/Institutional (PI) zone, and addressed as 2113 Main Street – next to the City Hall. The neighborhood meeting will take place on December 9, 2024 at 3:00 p.m. in the Main Conference Room in City Hall, located at 2095 Main Street, Ferndale, WA. For further information regarding this notice, please contact Jori Burnett at the City of Ferndale at 2095 Main Street, or call (360) 685-2351.
Published November 27, 2024
LEGAL
NOTICE OF APPLICATION AND INTENT TO ISSUE A MITIGATED DETERMINATION OF NON-SIGNIFICANCE
The City of Ferndale has received application(s) from the applicant referenced below for a proposed development project within the city limits. Based on review of the materials submitted, the development applications have been determined to be complete. The City has received and reviewed a SEPA checklist for probable adverse environmental impacts associated with the proposed project and expects to issue a Mitigated Determination of Non-Significance (MDNS) for this project using the Optional DNS process (WAC 197-11-355).
Pursuant to Title 14 of the Ferndale Municipal Code the following notice is provided to inform the community of the City’s receipt of the development applications. The public and affected agencies are invited to comment on the environmental impacts of the proposed project and receive copies of the subsequent Threshold Determination (the MDNS), if requested. This may be the only opportunity to comment on the environmental impacts of the proposal.
APPLICANT: Tony Freeland 2500 Elm Street, Suite 1 Bellingham WA 98225 APPLICATION NUMBER’S: 24009-SE, 24012-SPR DATE OF APPLICATION’S: 24009-SE (11-13-24), 24012-SPR (07-15-24) PROJECT LOCATION: 2161 & 2183 Washington Street, Ferndale WA 98248 Parcel Number: 390219476042 & 390219459009 Legal description: LOT 1 & 2 MISSION GROUP WASHINGTON SHORT PLAT PROJECT DESCRIPTION: The project includes the development of three apartment buildings on two separate lots totaling up to 87 multifamily units with associated parking, landscaping and utility improvements. The following reports have been prepared directly related to this project: •
A: Mitigated Determination of NonSignificance PUBLIC COMMENT PERIOD: November 27 – December 11, 2024 CONTACT: Michael Cerbone, SEPA Administrator comment@cityofferndale.org P.O. Box 936 Ferndale, WA 98248 (360) 685-2367
local regulations. Equipment will be monitored closely for potential leaks.
PLANTS: All site landscaping shall comply with City of Ferndale landscape standards. Landscape design will enhance native vegetation and supplement native soils with compost amendments. Aesthetics: Development in the Residential Multifamily High Zone shall be the zone’s design requirements. PUBLIC SERVICES: Water, sewer, and stormwater infrastructure will be constructed to City standards. Water and sewer connection fees shall be paid pursuant to building permit conditions of approval. LIGHT AND GLARE: Any lights shall be shielded and directed downward to reduce spillage into surrounding properties. PUBLIC SAFETY: Fire protection infrastructure will meet Fire District Requirements. Construction traffic control will be coordinated among the applicant, Ferndale Public Works Department, and Ferndale Police Department. Transportation: Transportation impact fees (TIF) shall be paid pursuant to building permit conditions of approval. Traffic Impact Fees shall be calculated in accordance with the approved Traffic Impact Analysis (TIA).
HISTORICAL AND CULTURAL
PRESERVATION:
Inadvertent Discovery of Archaeological Resources: Should archaeological resources (e.g., shell midden, animal remains, stone tools) be observed during project activities, all work in the immediate vicinity should stop, and the area should be secured. The Washington State Department of Archaeology and Historic Preservation (Stephanie Jolivette, Local Government Archaeologist 360586-3088) and the Lummi Nation Tribal Historic Preservation Office (Lena Tso, THPO 360-312-2257; Tamela Smart, Deputy THPO 360312-2253) should be contacted immediately in order to help assess the situation and to determine how to preserve the resource(s). Compliance with all applicable laws pertaining to archaeological resources is required.
Inadvertent Discovery of Human Skeletal Remains on Non-Federal and Non-Tribal Land in the State of Washington (RCWs 68.50.645, 27.44.055, and 68.60.055) “If ground disturbing activities encounter human skeletal remains during the course of construction, then all activity will cease that may cause further disturbance to those remains. The area of the find will be secured and protected from further disturbance until the State provides notice to proceed. The finding of human skeletal remains will be reported to the county medical examiner/coroner and local law enforcement in the most expeditious manner possible. The remains will not be touched, moved, or further disturbed. The county medical examiner/coroner will assume jurisdiction over the human skeletal remains and make a determination of whether those remains are forensic or non-forensic. If the county medical examiner/coroner determines the remains are non-forensic, then they will report that finding to the Department of Archaeology and Historic Preservation (DAHP) who will then take jurisdiction over the remains. The DAHP will notify any appropriate cemeteries and all affected tribes of the find. The State Physical Anthropologist will make a determination of whether the remains are Indian or Non-Indian and report that finding to any appropriate cemeteries and the affected tribes. The DAHP will then handle all consultation with the affected parties as to the future preservation, excavation, and disposition of the remains” (DAHP).
Published November 27, 2024
LEGAL
NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the Mayor of the City of Lynden has filed the 2025 Preliminary Budget with the Finance Director. A public hearing on the Preliminary Budget was held at 7:00PM on Monday, November 04, 2024. A public hearing on the Property Tax Levy was held at 7:00PM on Monday, November 18, 2024. A public hearing on the Final Budget will be held at 7:00PM at the Lynden City Hall Annex, 205 4th Street, on Monday, December 2, 2024. All interested parties wishing to comment may appear at said time and place. Written comments will be accepted through 4:00 PM, Monday, December 2, 2024. Copies of the 2025 Preliminary Budget will be available for public view online at www.lyndenwa. org, in the Mayor’s Office and the Finance Director’s Office (between the hours of 9:00 AM and 4:00 PM, Monday through Friday). Laura Scholl
Finance Director
Published November 20 & 27, 2024
LEGAL
CITY OF LYNDEN NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING REGARDING THE AMERICANS WITH DISABILITIES ACT (ADA) TRANSITION PLAN FOR FACILITIES IN THE PUBLIC RIGHT-OF-WAY
are posted on the City website at https://www.lyndenwa.org/346/ ADA-Transition-Plan. At the hearing, the City Council will consider any and all input and may correct, revise, change or modify the program. At the conclusion of the hearing, the Council will confirm the adoption of the ADA Transition Plan by resolution. Any persons wishing to comment on the ADA Transition Plan may do so by submitting their written comments to Jeff Davis (davisj@ lyndenwa.org) or by attending the public hearing. Heather Sytsma Public Works Department
Published November 20 & 27, 2024 Everson
LEGAL
CITY OF EVERSON NOTICE OF APPLICATION
The City of Everson hereby gives notice that on September 25, 2024, an application for a short subdivision was received from AVT Consulting, LLC to subdivide an approximately 1.05-acre property to establish three legal lots of record. The subject property is located at 204 & 210 N Washington St and 100 E 2nd St within the Residential zone and is situated in the SW ¼ of the SE ¼ of Section 30, Township 40 North, Range 4 East of W.M., within the City of Everson. The property is identified under the following County Assessor’s parcel number: 4004303110440000. The complete application is available for review at Everson City Hall during normal business hours or on the city website. The public comment period for this application is from November 27 to December 12, 2024. Written comments may be submitted during that comment period to Everson City Hall at the address shown below. Everson City Hall 111 W. Main Street P.O. Box 315 Everson, WA 98247
Published November 27, 2024 Nooksack
LEGAL
CITY OF NOOKSACK MEETING CHANGES
The Nooksack City Council will be rescheduling the following meetings: Monday, January 20, 2025 to Tuesday, January 21, 2025 Monday, February 17, 2025 to Tuesday, February 18, 2025 Monday, September 1, 2025 to Tuesday, September 2, 2025
Monica King
Clerk-Treasurer, City of Nooksack
Published November 27, 2024
LEGAL
CITY OF NOOKSACK
ORDINANCE NO 754
The following is a summary of
Ordinance #754 adopted by the Nooksack City Council on November 18, 2024 and published under authority of RCW35A.12.160. ORDINANCE #754 AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY
COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF NOOKSACK, WASHINGTON, INCREASING REAL PROPERTY LEVY
A copy of the ordinance will be made available for public inspection in the office of the City Clerk at City Hall during business hours. The full text of Ordinance #754 will be mailed without charge to any person who requests same.
Monica King Clerk Treasurer, City of Nooksack
Published November 27, 2024 Notice of Trustee’s Sale
LEGAL
NOTICE OF TRUSTEE’S SALE
Pursuant to the Revised Code of Washington 61.24, et seq.108 1st Ave South, Suite 450 Seattle, WA 98104 Trustee Sale No.: WA24-991152-BB Title Order No.: CTT24000413 Reference Number of Deed of Trust: Instrument No. 2019-0301898 Parcel Number(s): 4005223202140000 Grantor(s) for Recording Purposes under RCW 65.04.015: KIM M. VAN BUSKIRK, WHO ALSO APPEARS OF RECORD AS KIM VAN BUSKIRK, AS HER SEPARATE ESTATE Current Beneficiary of the Deed of Trust and Grantee (for Recording Purposes under RCW 65.04.015): WESTEDGE CREDIT UNION Current Trustee of the Deed of Trust: QUALITY LOAN SERVICE CORPORATION Current Loan Mortgage Servicer of the Deed of Trust: Westedge Credit Union I.NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that QUALITY LOAN SERVICE CORPORATION, the undersigned Trustee, will on 12/27/2024, at 10:00 AM At the main entrance to the Whatcom County Courthouse, located at 311 Grand Avenue, Bellingham, WA 98225 sell at public auction to the highest and best bidder, payable in the form of credit bid or cash bid in the form of cashier’s check or certified checks from federally or State chartered banks, at the time of sale the following described real property, situated in the County of WHATCOM, State of Washington, to-wit: LOT 107, “PEACEFUL VALLEY, DIVISION NO. 1,” ACCORDING TO THE PLAT THEREOF, RECORDED IN VOLUME 13 OF PLATS, PAGES 77, 78, 79, 80 AND 81, INCLUSIVE, RECORDS OF WHATCOM COUNTY, WASHINGTON. SITUATE IN WHATCOM COUNTY, WASHINGTON. More commonly known as: 1071 RED VALLEY CT, MAPLE FALLS, WA 98266-7020 Subject to that certain Deed of Trust dated 3/6/2019, recorded 3/22/2019, under Instrument No. 2019-0301898 records of WHATCOM County, Washington, from KIM M. VAN BUSKIRK, WHO ALSO APPEARS OF RECORD AS KIM VAN BUSKIRK, AS HER SEPARATE ESTATE, as grantor(s), to WHATCOM LAND TITLE COM-
PANY INC, as original trustee, to secure an obligation in favor of WESTEDGE CREDIT UNION, as original beneficiary. II. No action commenced by the Beneficiary of the Deed of Trust as referenced in RCW 61.21.030(4) is now pending to seek satisfaction of the obligation in any Court by reason of the Borrower’s or Grantor’s default on the obligation secured by the Deed of Trust/Mortgage. III. The default(s) for which this foreclosure is made is/are as follows: Failure to pay when due the following amounts which are now in arrears: $5,813.09. IV. The sum owing on the obligation secured by the Deed of Trust is: The principal sum of $47,788.38, together with interest as provided in the Note from 7/31/2023 on, and such other costs, fees, and charges as are due under the Note, Deed of Trust, or other instrument secured, and as are provided by statute. V. The above-described real property will be sold to satisfy the expense of sale and the obligation secured by the Deed of Trust as provided by statute. Said sale will be made without warranty, expressed or implied, regarding title, possession or encumbrances on 12/27/2024. The defaults referred to in Paragraph III must be cured by 12/16/2024 (11 days before the sale date), or by other date as permitted in the Note or Deed of Trust, to cause a discontinuance of the sale. The sale will be discontinued and terminated if at any time before 12/16/2024 (11 days before the sale), or by other date as permitted in the Note or Deed of Trust, the default as set forth in Paragraph III is cured and the Trustee’s fees and costs are paid. Payment must be in cash or with cashiers or certified checks from a State or federally chartered bank. The sale may be terminated any time after the 12/16/2024 (11 days before the sale date) and before the sale, by the Borrower or Grantor or the holder of any recorded junior lien or encumbrance by paying the principal and interest, plus costs, fees and advances, if any, made pursuant to the terms of the obligation and/or Deed of Trust, and curing all other defaults. VI. A written Notice of Default was transmitted by the Beneficiary or Trustee to the Borrower(s) and Grantor(s) by both first class and certified mail, proof of which is in the possession of the Trustee; and the Borrower and Grantor were personally served, if applicable, with said written Notice of Default or the written Notice of Default was posted in a conspicuous place on the real property described in Paragraph I above, and the Trustee has possession of proof of such service or posting. The list of recipients of the Notice of Default is listed within the Notice of Foreclosure provided to the Borrower(s) and Grantor(s). These requirements were completed as of 7/13/2024. VII. The Trustee whose name and address are set forth below will provide in writing to anyone requesting it, a statement of all costs and fees due at any time prior to the sale. VIII. The effect of the sale will be to deprive the Grantor and all those who hold by, through or under the Grantor of all their interest in the above-de-
federal requirements.
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the City Council has scheduled a public hearing date for the City of Lynden’s Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) Transition Plan for facilities in the Public Right-of-Way. The City Council will review public comments at their regular meeting on December 2, 2024, at 7:00 pm in the Lynden City Hall Annex, 205 4th Street. Copies of the Draft ADA Plan
G LOCAL
& MATTRESSES
DeWaard & Bode
Main Showroom: 3944 Meridian Street B’ham
Outlet Store: 4175 Hannegan Road B’ham
360-733-5900 • www.dewaardandbode.com AUTOMOTIVE
Hinton Chevrolet
8139 Guide Meridian Rd, Lynden • 866-230-4195
Imhof Automotive
Maintenance • Repair • Restoration
Over 40 Years Experience-Master Certified Ferndale • 360-393-8938
Jim’s Automotive Experts, Inc.
102 East Main Street, Everson • 360-966-4440
Les Schwab Tire Center • 360-380-4660
1731 LaBounty Dr, Ferndale
www.lesschwab.com
Louis Auto Glass
1512 N. State St., Bellingham • 360-734-3840
407 19th St., Lynden • 360-354-3232
1721 E. College Way, Mt. Vernon • 360-424-9759
Pete’s Auto Repair LLC
6209 Portal Way, Ferndale
360-380-2277 • www.petesautorepair.net
Point S Zylstra Tire
501 Grover St., Lynden • 360-354-4493
Vavra Auto Body
411 Nooksack Ave, Nooksack • 360-966-4444
VW of Bellingham
www.volkswagenofbellingham.com
2200 Iowa St., Bellingham • 360-734-5230
BAKERIES
Lynden Dutch Bakery
421 Front St., Lynden
360-354-3911 • lyndendutchbakery.com
Lynden Just Desserts
1724 Front St., Lynden • 360-354-3911
BANKS & CREDIT
UNIONS
Banner Bank
138 Birch Bay-Lynden Rd., Lynden
360-354-8100 • www.bannerbank.com
CABINETS
Lynden Interiors
2017 Front St., Lynden • 360-354-4149 www.lyndeninteriors.com
Westside Building Supply
8353 Guide Meridian, Lynden • 360-354-5617
CARPET CLEANING
Northwest Professional Services
360-354-4145 • www.npsclean.com
191 Birch Bay Lynden Rd, Lynden
CEMETERIES
Greenwood Cemetery • thegreenwoodcemetery.com
East Wiser Lake Rd., Lynden • 360-647-4001
Lynden Cemetery • www.lyndencemetery.com
South Side of Front St., Lynden • 360-647-4001
CLEANING
Christensen Home Services
P.O. Box 29286, Bellingham www.christensenhomeservices.com
Call or Text 360-594-1468
CLEANING SUPPLIES
Bay City Supply
360-671-7400 • www.baycitysupply.com
P.O. Box 2073, 1250 Iowa Street Bellingham, WA 98229
COFFEE
Cruisin Coffee
1976 Kok Rd., Lynden Town Plaza, Lynden
5885 Portal Way, Ferndale • 360-738-3789 CONCRETE
Mt. Baker Mobile Mixing, LLC 360-319-4285 www.mtbakermobilemixing.com
CONSTRUCTION
SERVICES
ACP Excavating and Construction
360-592-8801 www.acpexcavatingandconstruction.com
CONVENIENCE STORE
Delta Country Market 1306 Birch Bay-Lynden Rd, Lynden 360-354-1680
EYE CARE
Everson Vision Clinic, Dr. Alex Ilyin, OD 205 W Main St, Everson • 360-966-0445
Bethgutman.evc@aol.com
FARM & GARDEN
CHS Northwest
3500 Meridian St., Bellingham • 360-734-4010
1720 LaBounty Dr, Ferndale • 360-380-0578
415 Depot St., Lynden • 360-306-3800
119 17th St., Fairway, Lynden • 360-354-5671
300 Main St., Lynden • 360-354-1198
102 Nooksack Ave., Nooksack • 360-966-4193
www.chsnw.com
Portal Way Farm and Garden
6100 Portal Way, Ferndale • 360-384-3688
www.PortalWayFarmAndGarden.com
Smits Compost
9030 Guide Meridian, Lynden • 360-354-3583 www.smitscompost.com
FINE JEWELRY
Originals by Chad 521 Front St., Lynden • 360-318-0210
FLORISTS
Lynden Florea 306 Front St., Suite B, Lynden 360-306-8819 • lyndenflorea.com
M&M Floral
5453 Guide Meridian, Bellingham 360-398-1315 • www.mandmfloral.com
FUNERAL SERVICES & MONUMENTS
Whatcom Cremation & Funeral
“Our Community’s Most Affordable Cremations & Burials - from $995” 360-734-7073 • wcremation.com
GARAGE DOORS
Overhead Door Company of Bellingham
202 Ohio St, Bellingham • 360-734-5960
www.ohdbellingham.com
Vander Griend Lumber Co. Inc.
8461 Depot Rd., Lynden • 360-354-2155
Westside Building Supply 8353 Guide Meridian, Lynden • 360-354-5617
GARBAGE & RECYCLING
Nooksack Valley Disposal & Recycling, Inc.
250 Birch Bay-Lynden Rd, Lynden 360-354-3400
GIFT/SPECIALTY SHOP
Appel Farms - The Cheese Shop
6605 Northwest Dr., Ferndale • 360-312-1431 www.appelcheese.com
GREASE TRAP
CLEANING
Lil John Sanitary Services, Inc.
Mark Mellema • 360-398-9828 www.liljohnsanitary.net
GLASS, RESIDENTIAL
Louis Auto Glass
1512 N. State St., Bellingham • 360-734-3840
407 19th St., Lynden • 360-354-3232
1721 E. College Way, Mt. Vernon • 360-424-9759
Lyndale Glass • www.lyndaleglass.com
110 7th St., Lynden • 360-354-3937
6172 Portal Wy., Ferndale • 360-384-5956
Vander Griend Lumber Co. Inc. 8461 Depot Rd., Lynden • 360-354-2155
HARDWARE STORE
Lynden Ace Hardware 1736 Front St., Fairway Center, Lynden 360-354-2291
LYNDEN FLOREA L F
HEALTH & WELLNESS
Family Care Network
Lynden Family Medicine • 360-354-1333 1610 Grover St., Suite D-1, Lynden Birch Bay Family Medicine • 360-371-5855 8097 Harborview Rd., Blaine www.familycarenetwork.com
Ferndale Family Medical Center • 360-384-1511 5580 Nordic Way, Ferndale The Healthy Bra Company Maria C. Monti 425-478-0246 • abraforyou@aol.com www.thehealthybracompany.org
HOME IMPROVEMENT
Lynden Interiors 2017 Front St., Lynden • 360-354-4149 www.lyndeninteriors.com
Vander Griend Lumber Co. Inc. 8461 Depot Rd., Lynden • 360-354-2155
Walls & Windows Inc. • 360-676-5223 4131 Hannegan Rd., Ste. 104, Bellingham
HOME LOANS
Edge Home Finance- Mortgage Broker Dave Ohligschlager- Loan Officer * O/C 360-815-1768 • daveo@edgehomefinance.com
505 Front St. Ste 210, Lynden • Branch #2617457
NMLS #891464 / 422225 INSURANCE & FINANCIAL
Amy Warenski Insurance Agency Inc 8874 Bender Rd Ste 106, Lynden • 360-354-6868 www.amywarenski.com
Brown & Brown
501 Front St., Lynden • 360-354-4488
Country Financial®, Len Corneto 102 Grover Street, Ste. 209, Lynden • 360-354-4197
Country Financial®
Lesa Ferguson, RICP® Financial Representative
Josh Hungerford, CRPC© Insurance Agent 1610 Grover St., Suite B1, Lynden • 360-354-2975
Group of Health Insurance Services, LLC 4202 Meridian Street, Suite 104, Bellingham 360-527-2334 • hicllc.net
Guide Insurance Services 1780 Front St., Lynden • 360-354-2200
Guided Solutions (formerly Vibrant USA)
504 Front St. Suite #101, Lynden 866-733-5111 • guidedsolutions.com
Jeff Lamphere Insurance
113 Third St, Lynden • 360-354-5333 www.jefflamphere.com
Oltman Insurance & Financial Services 360-354-5988
8850 Bender Road, Suite 101, Lynden VanDalen Insurance
Shane VanDalen 517 Liberty St., Lynden • 360-354-4433
LUMBER
Vander Griend Lumber Co. Inc. 8461 Depot Rd., Lynden • 360-354-2155
Westside Building Supply 8353 Guide Meridian, Lynden • 360-354-5617
MEDIATION
Bellingham Mediation & Consulting Sheri Russell, JD • 360-255-1666 www.bellinghammediation.com
MEDICARE INSURANCE
PLANS
Guided Solutions (formerly Vibrant USA) 504 Front St. Suite 101, Lynden 360-733-5111 • guidedsolutions.com
Jeff Lamphere Insurance 113 Third St, Lynden • 360-354-5333 www.jefflamphere.com
VanDalen Insurance
Shane VanDalen 517 Liberty St., Lynden • 360-354-4433
MOSS REMOVAL
Max Moss Erasers 629-219-8471 • themaxmosserasers@gmail.com No chemicals, all green!
PEST & RODENT CONTROL
Environmental Pest Control Inc.
3003 Bennett Drive, Bellingham • 360-676-5120 www.epestcontrol.net
306 Front Street, Suite B • Lynden 360.306.8819 • lyndenflorea.com M-F 10-4, additional service by appointment
PET CARE Northwest Kitty Care
www.northwestkittycare.com • 360-319-7536 instagram.com/northwestkittycare
PORTABLE TOILETS
LJ Portables, Inc. Mark Mellema • 360-398-7353 www.liljohnsanitary.net
PRINT & PUBLISHING
Lynden Print Company
www.LyndenPrintCo.com 113 Sixth Street, Lynden • 360-354-4444
Lynden Tribune
www.LyndenTribune.com
113 Sixth Street, Lynden • 360-354-4444
REAL ESTATE
HomeSmart One Realty Kyle Christensen 414 W. Bakerview Rd. #103, Bellingham www.kylechristensenrealty.com Call or Text 360-594-1468
HomeSmart One Realty- Rick Meyer Managing Broker, GRI, CRS, SRES 414 W. Bakerview Rd. #103, Bellingham Call or text: 360-410-1213
REAL Broker LLC- Patrick Johnson patrickjohnsonrealestate.com Call or Text 360-988-1821
RECREATIONAL
VEHICLE STORAGE
Bellingham RV Storage Quality Covered RV Storage Bakerview/Irongate area • Bellingham, WA 360-671-6100 • BellinghamRVBoatStorage.com
RECYCLING, REMOVAL & YARD DEBRIS
Green Earth Technology 774 Meadowlark Rd., Lynden • 360-354-4936
RENTAL EQUIPMENT
Westside Building Supply 8353 Guide Meridian, Lynden • 360-354-5617
RESTAURANTS, FOOD & BEVERAGE
Aloha Cafe 684 Peace Portal Dr, Suite A, Blaine WA www.alohacafeblainewa.com • 360-933-1047
Bordertown Mexican Food Truck 312 3rd St, Lynden • 360-305-1290 Little Caesars 1804 18th St., Lynden • 360-354-8656
ROOFING
Joostens Roofing Bellingham • 360-815-7663
SENIOR CARE
Echo Valley Adult Day Care and Respite 8487 Full Moon Way, Maple Falls, WA 98266 Echovalleyrespite.com • 360-319-8958
SEPTIC INSTALLATION
Tyas & Tyas 3966 Deeter Rd., Everson • 360-988-6895
SEPTIC TANK PUMPING Lil John Sanitary Services, Inc. Mark Mellema • 360-398-9828 www.liljohnsanitary.net
SPORTS & RECREATION
Dave’s Sports Shop 1738 Front St., Lynden • 360-354-5591 Lynden Skateway 421 Judson Street, Lynden • 360-354-3851 www.LyndenSkateway.com
VETERINARY
Kulshan Veterinary 8880 Benson Rd, Lynden 6220 Portal Wy, Ferndale www.kulshanvet.com • 360-354-5095
VITAMINS
Lynden Nutrition Center 527 Front St., Lynden • 360-354-4884
You
a little preparation can be helpful in stress- lled and potentially dangerous situations.
Start by carrying an emergency driving kit in your vehicle, and conducting periodic driving checks. If your vehicle breaks down, your rst consideration should be to get your vehicle to a safe location. If you are unable to do so, dial 911 for immediate help.
Pull o the road
Put on your emergency ashers and exit onto the far right shoulder, as far o the road as possible. If on a multi-lane highway with medians, the left shoulder can also be used if there is ample room and you can’t get to the right shoulder. If you get out of your vehicle, watch for vehicles driving near you, especially when visibility is limited. Never stand directly behind or in front of your vehicle— other drivers may have trouble seeing you and strike you or the vehicle.
If you cannot pull o the road
Switch on your emergency ashers. Do not risk personal injury by pushing it to a safe location. If you cannot get the vehicle to a location away from tra c, or you’re uncertain about your safety, you must decide if it’s safe to exit the vehicle and get to a place of safety.
Flat tire
Signal, gradually slow down and pull onto the shoulder of the road.
Run out of gas
If you run out of gas or your engine stops, switch on your emergency ashers, carefully steer your vehicle out of tra c and let momentum get you to a safe place, and avoid using the brakes until necessary.
Alert other motorists
Switch on your emergency ashers, raise your vehicle’s hood. Place ares or warning triangles to direct oncoming tra c away from your vehicle. Place the rst are 10 feet behind the side of the vehicle closest to the road. Place the second 100 feet behind the vehicle, lining up with the middle of the bumper. If you see of smell leaking fuel, do not ignite ares or use anything with a ame.
Once you’re safe, follow these suggestions and guidelines:
Note your location
While most smartphones are GPS enabled, be aware of your surroundings. If possible, stay in well-lit areas, noting any landmarks, highway exit numbers, mile markers or cross streets.
Assess the problem
Be aware of warning signs such as steering problems, unusual noises or smoke coming from under the hood.
Communicate your situation
Once you and your passengers are safe, notify others of your breakdown by calling for help. AAA members can call 1-800-AAAHELP, and non-members can sign up and request limited service at the time of breakdown.
Remain with your vehicle
Under most circumstances, if you’re able to pull away from trafc, it’s safest to remain inside your vehicle until help arrives. at being said:
• Always be mindful of your surroundings and carry a ashlight.
• To avoid the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning, don’t leave the engine on for extended periods to heat or cool your vehicle.
• If you leave the vehicle, exit safely through the side facing away from the road.
• If help is within walking distance and it’s safe to leave your vehicle or passengers, place a note on the dashboard listing where you’re going and the time you left.
and 11.40.060. This bar is effective as to claims against both the decedents’ probate and nonprobate assets. DATE OF FIRST PUBLICATION 11/27/24 PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE
Sandra A. Peck
Attorney for Personal Representative: Erin Mae Glass, WSBA #39746 Chuckanut Law Group, PLLC 300 N. Commercial Steet, Suite 2 Bellingham, WA 98225
Published November 27 & December 4, 11, 2024
LEGAL
IN THE SUPERIOR COURT OF THE STATE OF WASHINGTON IN AND FOR THE COUNTY OF WHATCOM
ESTATE OF: Gary Friesen, Deceased. NO. 24-4-00923-37
PROBATE NOTICE TO CREDITORS (RCW 11.40.030) YOU ARE NOTIFIED that on October 18, 2024, James Christofferson was appointed as Personal Representative of the estate of Gary Friesen. Any person who has a claim against the decedent must, before the time the claim would be barred by any otherwise applicable statute of limitations, present the claim in the manner provided in RCW 11.40.070 by
STAFF SPOTLIGHT
Life isn’t all drama for Lynden School District’s Tina Miller
By Tim Newcomb For the Tribune
LYNDEN — Sure, there’s plenty of drama in Tina Miller’s life as she serves Lynden Schools, but it is part of her job description. As the drama director for both the high school and middle school, Miller works with dozens of students after school. But she’s also heavily involved in the lives of students during the school day.
As a para educator at Lynden Academy for the past six years, Miller’s role ranges from work with kin-
dergarten students twice a week to high schoolers twice a week to a mix of elementary grades one day a week. She’s also part of the testing team. “I love working at Lynden Academy. e sta is like a family,” she said. “I also enjoy the variety of students I get to work with from kindergarten through high school, and all the exibility and new challenges it provides.”
Miller’s passion, though, has always been music and drama. She selects shows, prepares scripts and schedules and runs rehearsals
while working with a team of volunteers and students to produce one high school play, one high school musical and one middle school show each year.
“I appreciate the friendships that are developed, the safe space we provide, the creative outlets and the drama family
that we have created over the last 15 years,” Miller said. “Doing shows with these kids is the true joy of my life and I wouldn’t give it up for anything.”
When not at work on scripts and rehearsals, Miller works on scripts and rehearsals. But in those rare moments she’s not,
she crochets, crafts and “curl(s) up with a good book,” watches football, attends the theater, snuggles with her cats and dogs and cruises.
Her personal passion for theater has led to community theater as well, both on and o the stage. But she’s never far from a high school sporting event or a service at Cornwall Church.
Her husband has experienced recent health struggles, and it has limited Miller’s community activities. But she’s previously been active on the
Whatcom County Umpire Association — at one time scheduling all the middle school, high school and adult softball umpiring rotations for all of Whatcom County — and serves on the board of two community theaters. “I am also still in touch with several of my drama babies from the past, and even have drama grandbabies now,” she said. “Even though we live in Ferndale, we call ourselves Lyndenites by proxy as we feel that our lives, home and heart really are here in Lynden.”
Antonio Machado is active in his community
heritage greatly influences my professional life,’ Ferndale School Board member says
By Luke Seymour Sta Reporter
FERNDALE — For more than a decade now, Antonio Machado has been one of Whatcom County’s most active residents. Among his many accomplishments, Machado is the senior manager of regulatory a airs at Western State Petroleum Association. Before that, he worked for 13 years at Phillips 66, one of Western Washington’s major oil re neries. However, one of the primary ways Machado has served his community over the years is through the Ferndale School District where he has served as a board member since 2023.
“I’m here to make sure the things that are going well continue,” reads his bio in the FSD website. “To work on the things that can be improved on. I’m here to collaborate; To add, not subtract.”
However, Machado was born and raised in Mexico, and although he may consider himself now to be an o cial Paci c Northwesterner, he said he remembers where he came from and continues to carry it inside him to this day.
“You can take Antonio out of Mexico,” Machado said. “But you can never take away his love for tacos, estas and all things ‘¡Viva Mexico!’ no matter where he goes.”
Born in Mexico City, Machado remembers his childhood as one lled with family and friends, punctuated by frequent celebrations and improvised football matches with fellow neighborhood kids.
“Life as a kid in Mexico was a lot of fun,” Machado said. “After school, I’d play outside with my friends, where we’d have soccer and football matches in the streets. Even if we didn’t always have a proper ball, any metal can or object sturdy enough to be kicked became our soccer ball. I have fond memories of family reunions every weekend, which always ended in a dance party or a karaoke session.”
According to Machado, holiday celebrations in Mexico were always full of color, music and dancing.
“At parties, everyone would dance with anyone available, and the food was always delicious,” he said. “My grandma reminded me of the Abuelita from the Disney movie Coco — she was sweet and nurturing, but she had a feisty side that no one dared to cross.”
Machado’s rst experience with the United States came when he turned 20 and went on a two-year mission for his church. e mission led him to Texas where he had the opportunity to spread the gospel in multiple towns such as McAllen, Rockport, Mission and Alton.
After his mission, Machado returned to Mexico to continue his studies in industrial engineering. However, after a series of what he described as crime-related incidents, Machado moved to America permanently to pursue better education opportunities.
In 2004, Machado enrolled as a student at Brigham Young University. Although he had already obtained plenty of experience with America from his mission trips, Machado said he was still unprepared for the culture shock he was met with upon his arrival in the PNW in the middle of winter.
“I’m not sure I was fully ready to move to the U.S. when I did,” Machado said. “I arrived at BYU in Idaho in January 2004, and I still remember stepping o the bus and immediately feeling out of place. It was minus-10°F, and I de nitely wasn’t dressed for that kind of weather. I instantly questioned my decision and felt a bit homesick. Everything was di erent — the food, the interactions and of course, the language — and I initially struggled to feel comfortable.”
Machado slowly to adapt to his new environment, but his true obstacles stemmed mostly from the language barrier. Machado said these issues were manageable and that he ultimately overcame them through discipline and hard work.
“I vividly remember my rst chemistry class — I couldn’t understand a single word,” he said.
“I had thought my English was strong, but to my surprise, I was completely lost. I left that rst college-level class stunned by how much I missed, even though
I was paying close attention. I felt extremely nervous. I thought I was going to fail all my classes due to the language barrier.
Machado said that to cope, he “chose a speci c desk in the library and made it Antonio’s desk.”
“I decided that before each class, I would study the material in advance,” he said. “ at way, I could focus on understanding the professor’s explanations without being distracted by trying to take notes. at desk in the library would be my place, my home, my spot, every day from 8 a.m. until I was kicked out of the library every night.”
Although Antonio studied hard at school, it wasn’t all work, as he would end up meeting his wife and would eventually start a family with her while they both still attended college.
“I met my wife at a Latin dance during my rst semester of college in the United States,” Machado said. “We dated on and o at rst, but eventually began dating steadily and got married about a year after meeting on the dance oor. Two years into our marriage, while I was still a student in my senior year, our oldest daughter, Gracie, was born.
Balancing the demands of my nal semester of physical chemistry, inorganic chemistry and numerous labs, along with the responsibilities of caring for a newborn, was incredibly challenging. Despite the stress, my wife and I remained focused on what was most important — graduating and nurturing our growing family. ose were some of the most stressful yet beautiful years of our lives.”
Since Machado graduated, he and his family have lived in several di erent areas throughout the U.S, such as Utah, Texas and Iowa. Eventually, they moved to the Paci c Northwest in 2010 to be closer to family.
“I found a job at the Phillips 66 re nery in Ferndale, which led us to move to Blaine initially,” Machado said. “Later, we built our home in Ferndale, a place we’ve grown to love so much.”
After living in Ferndale for a few years, Machado decided to run for the Ferndale School Board and won in November 2023. He said although he did not initially intent to join the board, he changed his mind after he realized some of the experience he could o er to his community,
“I also want to be actively involved in shaping what my children experience in school,” Machado said. “In a rapidly changing world, it’s important to understand how best to support our children. We are living through a technological revolution, and while the changes are exciting, I want to be part of the solution for my kids and all the children in the district.”
Although Machado has spent more than 20 years in the United States, he said he still tries to keep his Mexican heritage a regular part of his life as well as in the lives of his children.
“I believe that my Latino heritage greatly in uences my professional life,” Machado said. “Helping me build bridges and advocate for what I believe is fair. My background also allows me to appreciate the richness of other cultures and the blessing it is to live in such a beautiful and diverse country as the United States. I value the freedoms we enjoy here and the opportunity to work hard and reap the rewards of my e orts. I am deeply grateful for my heritage and for the opportunities this country has a orded me, including the ability to have a family I love so much.”
Tina Miller
Antonio Machado has served on the Ferndale School Board since 2023. (Luke Seymour/Ferndale Record)