The Northern Light: April 11-17, 2-24

Police notify public three months after teen was reported missing

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Blaine Police Department has announced that it needs the public’s help looking for a 15 year old who has been missing for over three months.

Rajan Chand, of Blaine, is described as being 5 feet 11 inches, 190 pounds, with black hair and brown eyes. Rajan left home the evening of December 28, 2023 and has not contacted family since.

Rajan’s father, Dipakh Chand, told The Northern Light that Rajan left all belongings at home, including a passport, ID and clothing. The family doesn’t know for certain what Rajan was wearing but believes it may have been nightwear.

“Rajan is someone who would not leave the house,” Dipakh said. “He’s a very kind, polite, heartfelt and caring person. … He’s always very well dressed up and cares a lot about his family, and that’s what shocks us how he has just left us.”

BPD asks that anyone with information on Rajan’s disappearance call 911.

In an April 5 Facebook post, BPD circulated a Washington State Patrol (WSP) missing persons poster of Rajan. Family members last saw the teenager on December 28, though the poster states Rajan was last seen the day before.

Rajan’s mother reported to a public entity around 9 a.m. December 29 that Rajan left their home at 6 p.m. December 28. After friends told the family that they didn’t know anything about Rajan’s disappearance, Rajan’s parents officially reported their child as a runaway to Blaine police January 2.

“We kept it down low. We thought ‘he’s probably at his friends or something’ and it’s been a while that he hasn’t come home so we started searching,” Dipakh said. “It was out of our hands so we handed it to the police.”

Rajan was entered as a missing person/ runaway in the National Crime Information Center’s (NCIC) Missing Person and Unidentified Person files on January 2, BPD sergeant Tim Richardson wrote in an email

The latest news from the April 8 Blaine City Council meeting ...

Open house on downtown parking

The city of Blaine’s Community Development Services Department (CDS) hosted an open house on a proposal that would give developers the option to have reduced downtown parking requirements before the start of Blaine City Council’s April 8 meeting. Blaine Planning Commission will hold a public hearing on the proposal at 6 p.m. Thursday, April 11 at city hall.

The open house brought back-andforth discussion between CDS director Alex Wenger and about a dozen people who attended. Wenger told attendees

nearly all developers have backed out of building on the westside of Peace Portal Drive, except for Drayton Harbor Oyster Company, and developers have asked that the city reduce its parking requirements. Wenger added that it was common for other cities, such as Sedro-Woolley and Anacortes, to reduce parking.

“We’re trying to reduce parking so we can increase the area people live,” Wenger said at the open house.

The residential parking changes would be optional, with up to a 50 percent reduction in residential parking for developers on the west side of Peace Portal Drive in the downtown

s A group of seven protesters silently stood with tape covering their mouths and held signs during what historically was the public comment portion of the Blaine City Council meeting on April 8. The group was protesting mayor Mary Lou Steward’s recent decision to limit public comments to written submissions only. Steward made the change following a number of council meetings that had been disrupted by a small but unruly group who ignored calls of order.

Photo by Grace McCarthy

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to The Northern Light. Both Canada

Services Agency or U.S. Customs and Border Protection would immediately contact BPD if they encountered Rajan, Richardson said.

After not hearing from Blaine

police, Dipakh said he contacted the department at the beginning of April and they asked him to fill out information for a WSP missing persons poster. The poster was circulated the next day, Dipakh said, though he said he wished the police had created the poster on their own earlier.

When asked why BPD waited until April 5 to ask for the public’s

help in finding Rajan, Richardson wrote, “Rajan was entered into NCIC as a missing person/runaway that night. The flier is a standard part of the follow-up investigation. Rajan’s father called to see if there were any updates to the case or anything else that could be done. We coordinated with the parents and the WSP missing persons unit to obtain the flier. As soon as we got the flier, it was posted.”

BPD did not immediately respond to a list of questions including what steps the police have taken to investigate Rajan’s disappearance and when those steps were taken, and whether the police department had a standard procedure for investigating and keeping track of missing persons/ runaway cases.

Carrie Gordon, Washington State Patrol’s missing and unidentified persons unit director, said WSP’s role is as an assisting agency to BPD, the case’s primary investigator. Either families or police can notify WSP that they need a missing person poster created.

The primary investigating agency determines whether an alert should be issued, such as an Amber Alert or Endangered Missing Persons Advisory, Gordon said. Each alert has its own criteria that needs to be met for it to be issued; for example, one of the criteria for an Amber Alert is that the missing person needs to have known to be abducted.

Dipakh said while he understood the constraints of a small police department, he hoped Blaine police could do more.

“Blaine police is helping, but they haven’t done much,” Dipakh said. “I understand that they can’t knock on every door and ask for Rajan, but they could do something.”

Dipakh said one of Rajan’s friends had told the family a couple of weeks ago she believed Rajan was in California, but the family doesn’t know why the friend believes that and doesn’t believe

it’s possible if Rajan doesn’t have identification. Dipakh said he called Bellingham International Airport to see if Rajan had taken any flights, but was told the police needed to make that request.

“I’ve done everything that I can but there’s not much I can do when it comes to the public because nobody wants to give information,” Dipakh said.

Dipakh said Rajan was only known to go to his friends’ houses in Blaine and Birch Bay. The family believes Rajan would have been found by now if the teenager was in Blaine and believes Rajan may be somewhere in Washington state.

“If anyone sees him, call 911 and find my son,” Dipakh said. “That’s all I care for right now.”

Photos courtesy Dipakh Chand

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city would require developers who opt for reduced on-site parking to pay an in-lieu fee that would go to downtown transportation improvements. The option for reduced parking would go away at some point and the city would return to its standard parking requirements. Under the proposal, the city would implement a tiered fee structure offering parking stalls at a lower rate early on to incentivize participation, with parking stalls being priced higher as demand increased.

Some members of the public questioned whether residential buildings would sell if tenants didn’t have enough parking for their cars, while other attendees said developers would study what people wanted before building.

Some people voiced that the city shouldn’t allow the option of reduced parking, arguing Blaine, unlike larger cities, did not have good public transportation and many services, such as a grocery store, were not downtown. Wenger suggested those services would come downtown as more people moved there.

Blaine resident Ray Leone said there was already development in east and west Blaine.

“To put all your apples in downtown residentials to bring back Blaine seems ridiculous when we have 1 million people sitting on top of us,” Leone said.

Wenger said about a quarter of properties along Peace Portal Drive are vacant.

“Is it the golden fix for downtown? Probably not, but it’s a piece of the puzzle,” Wenger said. “We’re really trying to think of a way to get customers in stores downtown.”

Protest

The regular Blaine City Council meeting on April 8 began with seven people participating in a silent protest by taping their mouths and holding signs in protest of new city council rules that bar the public from speaking. The group stood up

for three minutes during the time when the public would normally be allowed to speak. The protestors remained civil throughout the meeting.

Mayor Mary Lou Steward first prohibited public comment without notice during the February 12 meeting, when city council also voted to update its rules of procedure governing public meetings. Prohibiting oral comment is allowed by state law.

Concern over city government transparency began during a debate that lasted over a year on allowing man -

ufactured home parks in east Blaine. The issue brought dozens of east Blaine residents opposed to the proposal to meetings, and, after council approved the code change, about a handful of people calling themselves “Save Blaine” began accusing city council and city officials of being unethical and lacking transparency. Some group members ignored the mayor’s requests for order during public comment, which they voiced as arbitrary and were upset with frequent rule

(See Council, page 5)

s People read posters about the city proposal that would give developers the option to have reduced downtown parking requirements during an open house at city hall on April 8. Blaine Planning Commission will hold a hearing on the proposal during its meeting at 6 p.m. Thursday, April 11. Photo by Grace McCarthy

s Mayor Mary Lou Steward, r., swears in Devin Cooper to the Blaine Police Department during the Blaine City Council meeting on April 8. Photo courtesy Blaine Police Department

WCLS hires architects for Birch Bay library

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Marking a major milestone toward a permanent library in Birch Bay, the Whatcom County Library System (WCLS) entered into a contract agreement with Osborn Architects Inc. to begin the construction design process for the new Birch Bay Vogt Library Express.

The contract was signed in early April, according to WCLS deputy director Michael Cox, and shows signs of progress in the now years-long process of creating more robust library services for Whatcom County’s fourth-largest community.

WCLS plans to hold a community meeting on the upcoming construction and design plans this spring, Cox said, and will release more information in the coming weeks. Representatives from Osborn Architects will present early mock-ups of the interior of the library to the public at the meeting.

The library is expected to open in 2025, Cox said.

“We realized that the population, particularly the growth rate in that part of the county, combined with the usage, demonstrate the need,” he said. “They’re using Blaine, Lynden, Ferndale libraries and we saw that this group of people were really strong library users.”

WCLS originally planned to turn the entire 7,600-square-foot Vogt family homestead into a full-service library, which would have cost $6.5 million, according to past reporting from The Northern Light. That plan required creating a taxing district to raise $4

million for the project, but voters twice rejected the plan in the November 2021 and February 2022 elections. The February ballot was just 26 votes shy of the required 60 percent supermajority.

Currently, Birch Bay is only served by WCLS’s “bookmobile,” a truck/library hybrid that parks on the Vogt home lawn for a few hours every week.

“We were really close, we had a majority of support from the community, but we didn’t have what we needed,” Cox said. “We didn’t want that to stop our forward progress … we really believe that the library we’re putting in place is going to be able to provide a great level of library service.”

A new plan from the WCLS Board of Trustees to create 1,700 square feet for the

CiviC Meetings

library was presented and accepted by the state legislature in April 2023, bringing $2 million in grant funding for the library.

WCLS raised $315,000 in funding from Whatcom County through the American Rescue Plan Act, and lobbied the state legislature for a $2 million grant for the future library express, but Cox said construction costs are likely to continue to rise before renovations begin.

“There’s been quite a bit of inflation and those numbers can fluctuate based on the changing costs of construction materials,” Cox said. “We are actually still in fundraising mode because we expect our cost estimates to have increased.”

For more information on the Birch Bay Vogt Library Express, visit bit.ly/4aPT7t2.

Thursday, 10:30 a.m., Station 61 at 9408 Odell Road and via Zoom. Info: nwfrs.net.

BBWARM: Birch Bay Watershed and Aquatic Resources Management (BBWARM) District Advisory Committee will meet 6 p.m. Wednesday, April 17 at the Northwest Annex, 5280 Northwest Drive in Bellingham, and on Zoom. Info: bbwarm.whatcomcounty.org.

s The Whatcom County Library System recently hired architects to help turn the Vogt family homestead into the Birch Bay Vogt Library Express. File photo

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changes. Police attended several meetings near the end of 2023.

While a few people from the “Save Blaine” group protested during the April 8 meeting, most were new faces to city council meetings.

One of the protesters told The Northern Light that the group members shared the belief that emailed public comments can be ignored, and need to be heard by council members. Group members want more back-and-forth dialogue with the city, and to not just be told what will happen without the city seriously considering their input. The group is planning future protests until what they consider a “gag order” is abandoned.

Legislative update

The city of Blaine’s lobbyists in the state legislature gave a general overview of the city’s wins and losses in the 2024 legislative session.

Lobbyist Holly Sanabria, of Gordon Thomas Honeywell, informed councilmembers that there was a lack of available funding this year for the Bell Road grade separation proj -

ect but it will be considered for future funding. About $9.5 million in federal dollars is currently earmarked for the design portion of what is expected to be an $85 million project needed to alleviate traffic congestion by building an overpass above the train tracks at the Bell Road and Peace Portal Drive intersection.

Sanabria’s presentation also covered the city’s request for state funding for the downtown mixed-use affordable housing project in the 2025 legislative session. The project is envisioned to bring a larger library, affordable and market-rate condominiums and commercial space that could potentially include childcare at the current Blaine library site. Kulshan Community Land Trust is leading the project, with partnership from the city and Whatcom County Library System. A bill supported by the city that would have increased the annual one percent property tax levy that local taxing districts are allowed to collect without voter approval failed during the legislative session. The bill would have created a new formula taking into account inflation and population growth, while also limiting the

levy cap to 3 percent. Sanabria said the bill could potentially be considered in the future if Democrats, the bill’s primary supporters, continue to be the majority party.

Blaine officials had asked the state to invest in infrastructure on industrial land within the city as Vancouver, B.C. is experiencing an industrial land shortage.

Governor Jay Inslee budgeted a $25 million green jobs and infrastructure grant program for local governments statewide, but the program would not occur if Initiative-2117 passes. I-2117 would repeal the 2021 Climate Commitment Act, which would undo the cap and invest program made to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, if approved by voters in November.

In total, 1,560 bills were introduced, while only 376 laws passed during the 60-day session. Police officer sworn in

The mayor swore Devin Cooper into the Blaine Police Department. Cooper had previously worked at the police department, before working at the Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office during the past couple of years.

Employment recruiting firm

Shewmake and Timmons to host Birch Bay community meeting

State senator Sharon Shewmake (D-Bellingham) and state representative Joe Timmons (D-Bellingham) will stop by the Birch Bay Chamber of Commerce for a community meeting from noon to 1 p.m. Saturday, April 13.

The meeting will cover an update on this year’s legislative session, and will allow people to ask questions and provide input on what they would like prioritized. The Birch Bay meeting is one of six stops the legislators will make throughout the day in Whatcom County. Other nearby stops include the Ferndale library 10:30-11:30 a.m. and the

City council unanimously approved a contract with an employment recruiting firm to help hire for five vacant staff positions.

The firm, DestinationOne, will recruit for a finance director, two journeyman electrical line workers, and two other positions expected to become vacant this year.

The city has struggled to recruit high voltage journeymen for several years, despite increasing the salary and advertising the job posting, according to city documents. The city is currently advertising the full-time position for nearly $150,700, one of the city’s highest-paid positions.

City manager Mike Harmon said the city is desperately looking for electrical line workers as it’s been almost five years since the city’s electrical department has been fully staffed.

The contract outlines that the city would pay $8,000 per recruitment for a year, for a total of $40,000. DestinationOne will find employees for those five positions and guarantee the new employees stay for at least three months.

Council approved the contract 6-0, with councilmember Mike Hill absent.

Lynden library 2:30-3:30 p.m.

Both legislators represent the 42nd Legislative District, which covers Blaine, Birch Bay and Custer, along with the rest of north Whatcom County.

The Birch Bay Chamber of Commerce is located at 4819 Alderson Road.

BBWARM meeting to cover Semiahmoo Drive drainage, proposed rate increases

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The Birch Bay Watershed and Aquatic Resources Management (BBWARM) District Advisory Committee, will hold presentations on the Semiahmoo Drive outfall improvements and the next step of the district’s rate increase proposal during its meeting on Wednesday, April 17.

The committee’s quarterly meeting will be held at 6 p.m. at the Northwest Annex, 5280 Northwest Drive in Bellingham, and on Zoom. Public comment will be available at the beginning of the meeting.

Tetra Tech representatives will present its preliminary design for the Semiahmoo Drive South & Outfall Improvements Capital Improvement Project that is anticipated to start construction in 2025.

In an attempt to reduce flooding and improve the flow of stormwater, the project would regrade ditches and replace a culvert with a 12-inch diameter crossing under the southern

area of Semiahmoo Drive with a 30-inch diameter culvert, according to Whatcom County Public Works Department. The project is also expected to reconstruct stormwater drainage flows from southern Semiahmoo Drive to the Strait of Georgia that were damaged during the historic November 2021 floods.

FCS Group will present revenue requirements that were determined by its rate and funding analysis. BBWARM is considering raising its rates, which would be the first time it’s done so since it was created in 2009.

Rates are based on the density of impervious surface area on a property, such as pavement, roofs, driveways or parking areas. The average single-family home in Birch Bay has 4,000 square feet of impervious surface and pays $75 annually, according to the district.

To join the April 17 committee meeting virtually via Zoom, visit BBWARM’s website at bit. ly/43QKc8l

sports

Softball stay undefeated with another shutout gem from Bakker

Softball

Blaine softball continued its undefeated start to the season on April 9 with another blowout victory, this time a 17-0 thrashing on the road against Nooksack Valley. Star pitcher Emersyn Bakker threw five scoreless innings, racking up multiple strikeouts in yet another win for the senior pitcher who recently signed a letter of intent to play collegiately at Edmonds Community College next season.

“Our pitcher-catcher combination, I wouldn’t trade them for anybody,” head coach Sean Miller said postgame. “I think [Bakker] is the best in the league, just like she was last year. That’s my opinion until someone shows me different.”

The Borderites haven’t allowed a run since March 15 in the first game of the season, a 9-4 win over Cedar Park Christian. Since then, Blaine has won four straight by a combined score of 56-0. The Borderites are first place in the Northwest Conference (NWC) standings, sitting at a strong 5-0 (4-0 NWC) record, the only team in the conference to remain undefeated.

But the Borderites will face its first real test of the season this weekend when they play a double-header on Saturday, April 13 against Hoquiam (9 a.m. first pitch) and Montesano (2 p.m. first pitch) at Mill Creek Sportsplex. Montesano are reigning state champions, and knocked Blaine out of the state semifinals last season. That double-header starts a string of seven games in eight days, a test of the team’s roster depth and stamina.

“Our schedule definitely gets tougher coming up,” Miller said of the upcoming stretch of games. “Teams not scoring any runs on us definitely helps. We don’t have

to do very much, but we’re confident right now.”

The Borderites will return to Pipeline Field on Monday, April 15 at 4 p.m. to face conference opponent Sedro-Woolley, then play Lynden on the road on Tuesday, April 16, Ferndale on the road Thursday, April 18, then host Coupeville on Friday, April 19, and Lynden Christian on Saturday, April 20.

The Borderites hope to continue its strong start to the season, and hopefully find its way back to state playoffs.

“When you have a pitcher that dominant, it makes the game a lot easier,” Miller said of Bakker.

Boys soccer

After suffering its first (and so far only) loss of the season to Meridian at home on March 26, Blaine boys soccer bounced back for a 2-2 tie against Lynden Christian on March 28, a 3-0 win over Lakewood on March 30, and another 3-0 win over Nooksack Valley on April 8.

NOTICE OF FLUSHING

The City of Blaine Water Division started flushing the City's water distribution system. This is accomplished by opening hydrants along the system (starting at the well fields) to move fresh water throughout the distribution system.

The purpose of flushing the system is to remove any grit and debris in order to improve water quality through the distribution system.

During the city flushing program city water customers may experience a temporary low water pressure and/or cloudiness when flushing is going on. The cloudiness condition (caused by air) should be only temporary, and can be cleared by running a cold water tap for a few minutes to clean and flush your service line. If the condition continues for an extended period of time please contact the Blaine Public Works.

Thank you in advance for your cooperation. If you have any questions, feel free to call Public Works at (360) 332-8820, or visit www.cityofblaine.com for weekly area updates.

Blaine Public Works.

with consistent improvement throughout a long spring season.

“The girls were okay with their scores as it was the first 18-hole match of the season, but there is always room for improvement,” Pilon wrote in an email to The Northern Light . “I am happy with their progress so far and their continued commitment to improving their game and the continued encouragement from their teammates.”

Blaine’s next match will be held at Shuksan Golf Club, 1500 E. Axton Road, on Tuesday, April 16, first tee at 3 p.m. After that, the Borderites have just two more matches, both Northwest Conference matches at Whidbey Golf Club, before playoffs begin.

Baseball

In the most recent win, which put the Borderites at 6-1-2 (1-1-1 NWC) on the year, Blake Koreski scored yet another goal in what has been a solid year for the forward, along with goals from Wade Lottimer and Matthew Hayes.

Head coach Gio Quesada made some position changes on the back line after a haphazard defensive showing against Meridian led to a pair of easy scores for the Trojans, who won 2-1 to give Blaine its only loss of the year.

“We’re building the team again after losing a lot of seniors,” Quesada said. “The game against Meridian was a lot of pressure. We didn’t handle that stress but it’s useful because mistakes are normal and I’m excited to see how the guys look better and better.”

One of those tactical moves by Quesada was moving senior Matthew Hayes from center back to the wing position, which already is leading to goals for the Borderites.

Since that loss to Meridian, the Borderites have outscored its three opponents by an 8-2 margin. Blaine has one of the better overall records in the NWC, but needs to pick up more conference wins to solidify its position atop the 1A

NWC teams. The Borderites are still behind 1A rivals Meridian, who hold a two-point lead over Blaine in the conference standings.

The Borderites next game is scheduled Wednesday, April 10 at 7 p.m. (after press time) at home against Mount Baker at 7 p.m. Blaine then goes on the road to face Ferndale on Saturday, April 13.

After a trio of away games, the Borderites will have one more home game, Senior Night, on Wednesday, April 24 at 7 p.m. against Nooksack Valley.

Girls golf

In its first 18-hole match of the season, Blaine girls golf battled through windy and rainy conditions to earn an overall team win with a score of 610 at Loomis Trail Golf Course on April 8. The Borderites beat second-place conference rival Meridian by just two strokes.

Ellie Tanjuaquio led the Borderites with a score of 105. Other Blaine standouts included Thora Engen shooting a 113, Kijah Van Rijswijck with 121, and Hannah Phelps-McDonald with 131.

Head coach Connie Pilon said the first 18-hole match of the season is always a challenge for the team, but was impressed

After spring break marked the unofficial halfway point of the Blaine baseball season, the Borderites weren’t able to lengthen its winning streak to three games, losing to Lynden at home on April 9, 8-1.

After a pair of strong wins against Burlington-Edison and Mount Baker that saw the Borderites score a total of 23 runs, the bats were silenced by a strong Lynden team that sits second in the conference standings among 2A NWC teams.

The Borderites are still sitting in the middle of the NWC pack, just below 1A Lynden Christian and Meridian. Blaine currently has a 7-4 overall record, but fell to 3-4 in conference games.

Blaine has a chance to make up some ground in the standings with a game against Meridian on Wednesday, April 10 at 4:30 p.m. (after press time) and on the road against Sedro-Woolley on Friday, April 12 at 6:30 p.m.

Starting next week, there are just six conference games remaining on the schedule before the District 1/2 1A tournament begins on May 1 at Sehome High School and Joe Martin Stadium in Bellingham.

A higher seed for the Borderites means – in theory – an easier path through the district tournament and state playoff qualification.

s Senior shortstop Jordyn Vezzetti after scoring during the third inning of Blaine’s 17-0 win over Nooksack Valley on April 9. Vezzetti went 2-4 with a RBI on the day.

Photo by Nolan Baker

s Senior pitcher Emersyn Bakker delivers a pitch to a Nooksack Valley player during Blaine’s April 9 game on the road. Bakker pitched all five innings, shutting out the Pioneers. Photo by Nolan Baker

s Clockwise from top left: Head coach Sean Miller heads to the dugout during Blaine’s 17-0 win over Nooksack Valley

Sophomore outfielder Mesa Puls slides back into first base after a pick-off attempt. Sophomore infielder Aaliyah Bowman bunts successfully. Junior outfielder Brie Smith looks on before a pitch. Photos by Nolan Baker

s Senior pitcher Emersyn Bakker eyes the batter during the final inning of Blaine’s 17-0 win over Nooksack Valley on April 9. Photo by Nolan Baker

ing the first man to step onto the moon on July 20, 1969, one of humankind’s most astonishing and ambitious achievements. These days, few people likely even think about that historic moment. But, it is a reminder of why we should dream – and dream big – recognizing that collaboration, creative thinking, community commitment and determination can make the unfathomable a reality.

April is National Donate Life Month, an ideal time to think big about being a living kidney donor.

As a kidney specialist, I envision a “moonshot” to eliminate the kidney transplant waitlist in Whatcom County. Our county could become a national model.

President John F. Kennedy declared in 1962 that the United States would put a man on the moon before the decade’s end. It’s reasonable to accomplish our moonshot to eliminate the waitlist by 2029.

This year marks the 55th anniversary of Neil Armstrong be-

One in three American adults is at risk for chronic kidney disease (CKD), which is a silent epidemic that affects over 37 million people in the U.S. Over 80 percent of people with CKD are undiagnosed and untreated. Knowing that you are at risk because of diabetes, high blood pressure or a family history should lead to appropriately frequent testing of kidney function and urine testing for protein. Diabetes is the top cause of kidney disease.

Nearly half of Americans, or 136 million people, are living with diabetes and prediabetes. Fortunately, we have two kidneys, but we only need one. For those with end-stage renal disease, a kidney from a living donor is ideal because they can come off

dialysis or be transplanted before dialysis is started. Patients live longer and have better quality lives with a transplant than on dialysis.

The Pacific Northwest has an incomparable history of leading-edge kidney research with a legacy of mission-driven care to individuals with CKD. Outpatient dialysis, including home dialysis, was first performed in Seattle.

More recently, the space research program from the University of Washington School of

Pharmacy, the Kidney Research Institute and UW Medicine has sent miniaturized chips containing live human kidney cells to the International Space Station for study. The research has public importance far beyond space flight: They hope to learn more about how conditions such as protein in the urine, bone loss and kidney stones develop. Because of the PNW’s wealth of experience in kidney research, innovation and treatments, people with chronic kidney disease

have access to superior care, closer to home. Living donor kidneys tend to last much longer and are rejected less frequently than deceased donor kidneys. Also, the wait time for CKD patients who receive a kidney from a living donor is significantly shorter.

The Mount Baker Foundation (MBF) supports our community’s moonshot to eliminate the kidney waitlist and offers resources to make the often complex journey to transplant less overwhelming. The foundation can also help with out-of-pocket costs for eligible individuals and other services during the transplant process. MBF maintains an ongoing relationship with UW’s Kidney Research Institute and Center for Dialysis Innovation.

MBF is hosting a living kidney donation forum, Share Your Spare, 12-2 p.m. Sunday, April 21, including lunch, at the Squalicum Boathouse, 2600 N. Harbor Loop Drive in Bellingham. Contact Maria Macpherson to reserve your spot at maria@mtbakerfoundation.org

Dr. William Lombard is a retired nephrologist and past medical director of the Mt. Baker Kidney Center who volunteers at the Mount Baker Foundation.

s Dr. William Lombard, former medical director of the Mt. Baker Kidney Center. Courtesy photo

File photo

PeaceHealth Lynden clinic anticipated to open April 15

A new healthcare facility in Lynden is anticipated to serve 150 to 200 patients daily, providing specialized care in north Whatcom County.

PeaceHealth expects to open its new primary and specialty care clinic in Lynden on Monday, April 15. The clinic will have primary care that includes family medicine, pediatrics and same-day services, as well as cardiology, orthopedics, behavioral health and OB/GYN/midwifery. On-site imaging and lab services will be available from Mt. Baker Imaging and Quest Diagnostics.

The opening of the clinic, at 8844 Benson Road, will mark the end of years of planning for the clinic after PeaceHealth purchased the land in 2020.

The clinic will be able to employ 50 caregivers and providers, which allows serving about 150 to 200 people daily.

The 22,500-square-foot building will be PeaceHealth’s first clinic with a Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) certification. As certification requirements, the clinic (See Clinic page 10)

“We are thrilled to open this beautiful facility, and excited to help meet the healthcare needs of our north Whatcom County communities,” said Denise Walker, vice president of operations for PeaceHealth Medical Group. “We recognize how rapidly the area is growing and we want to ensure the community has access to high-quality primary and specialty care for many years to come.”

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has solar panels, EV charging stations, native plants and a bioswale stormwater runoff system.

PeaceHealth will hold a community open house that will have tours and refreshments 4:30-6:30 p.m. Thursday, May 16.

A PeaceHealth primary and specialty care clinic is set to open at 8844 Benson Road in Lynden on Monday, April 15. The clinic will have primary care that includes family medicine, pediatrics and same-day services, as well as cardiology, orthopedics, behavioral health and OB-GYN/midwifery. On-site imaging and lab services will also be available.

Welcoming

ents. However,

parents often lament that there

no guidebook to caring for and raising children. This becomes even more apparent when parents must confront illnesses that affect their children. It can be disconcerting when a child is affected by illness and parents feel helpless. Such feelings may arise when children’s allergies first appear.

Just like adults, children can be sensitive to allergens in their foods or their environments. Allergies affect the immune system, according to Cedars-Sinai Medical Center in Los Angeles. Allergic reactions occur when the immune system reacts to something generally harmless and thinks it is a danger. The body then at-

tacks the allergen with antibodies, causing a number of reactions in the body.

The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention says nearly one in five children has a seasonal allergy, more than 10 percent have eczema, and nearly 6 percent have a food allergy. Almost 600,000 Canadian children under age 18 have food allergies, according to Food Allergy Canada. Children may experience allergies differently than adults.

The American College of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology notes some of the more common allergy symptoms in children include:

• Skin rashes or hives (atopic dermatitis or eczema)

• Difficulty breathing

• Sneezing, coughing, a runny

nose or itchy eyes

• Stomach upset

• Chronic nasal congestion

• Ear infections, since allergies can lead to inflammation in the ear and may cause fluid accumulation

• Itching in ears or the roof of the mouth

• Red, itchy, watery eyes

• A severe, life-threatening allergic reaction known as anaphylaxis

Allergies can be caused by a number of things. The most common triggers are tree, grass and weed pollens. Mold, dust mites, animal dander, bee stings, pests like roaches and mice, and foods also cause allergies. Children also may be allergic to medicines, which can be scary, since parents may not have any prior warning of an allergic reaction to a new medication.

Allergies can affect anyone, and parents who suffer from their own allergies may have children who also have allergies. Doctors are not sure why allergies tend to run in families. Also, allergic symptoms can happen slowly over time.

Parents who suspect their children may have allergies should discuss their concerns with a doctor to form an accurate and complete diagnosis. Allergists typically use skin testing to confirm allergies. Liquid-form extracts of allergens are placed on the top layer of the skin through a pricking device. The skin will turn red where the test was applied if an allergen causes a reaction. Skin testing is usually faster than blood tests.

Treatment for allergies tends to involve avoiding common triggers. Immunotherapy and certain medications also may be advised. Always consult with the child’s pediatrician before administering any over-the-counter allergy medications.

Photo courtesy PeaceHealth

4793 N. Golf Course Drive

MLS #2219492

renovated space, including a new roof, windows, and on-demand tankless water heater. The modern kitchen features stainless steel appliances, quartz countertops, a tile backsplash and new cabinetry. Ben Tucker 360-393-5726

8610 White Rd

MLS #2156471 $6,000,000

First time offered, Borderline Lake and adjacent development property of 105.83 acres features a 2,350 ft competition water ski lake with a long history as a private and competition waterski lake serving Western Washington & Canada. Located minutes from the Canadian border, this property features a private ski lake, two boat houses, boat launch, judging tower, and multiple docks. A network of well-maintained trails.

Matt Berry 360-389-0104

Bob Sandoz 360-466-6705

MLS #2218828

590 F St

$539,000

Nestled on a sunny corner lot, this charming 4-bed/1.75-bath farmhouse is waiting for you! The main floor features 2 beds + 3/4 bath and flows seamlessly from the living room through the large dining room, and into the updated kitchen with SS appliances, granite countertops, and lots of cabinet space. Upstairs you’ll find an expansive primary bedroom, full bath, guest bedroom, and bonus area. The bevy of windows keep the home awash in natural light. Jacson Bevens 360-223-6263

2221 Cedarwood Lane

MLS #2193284 $1,798,000

Enjoy the “out of town” feel without the “out of town” hassle, in this custom built home perfectly situated on 1.6 acres & ready for enjoyment. Just minutes from I-5 & the Canadian border. Zero step entry greets you with custom glass doors & vaulted ceiling. Main floor has primary bed & bath, parlor room, kitchen/dining space, plus French doors that open to enormous Trex deck that wraps around nearly 3/4 of the home. Second story has 4 beds + 2 full baths.

Kathy Stauffer 360-815-4718

Semiahmoo Pkwy

MLS #2186520 $349,000

A rare find in Whatcom County--beautiful shy 12-acre parcel for your dream home, a huge shop, & accessory dwelling unit! Exceptional location, a premier spot in the Semiahmoo area--just 15 minutes to I5--close to Bellingham & an even shorter distance to the U.S./Canadian border. Level, easy-to-build site with water & electricity in the street. There are a lot of design choices when you are working with such a spacious piece of usable ground.

Kathy Stauffer 360-815-4718

9147 Belted Kingfisher Road

MLS #2197802 $1,595,000

OCEAN VIEW! Custom built West facing home in Semiahmoo Resort with over 4,700 square feet with commanding sea and skyscape views from nearly every room with world class sunsets! Stunning yet comfortable, spacious yet cozy, bright & light throughout with walls of windows and easy main floor living, including the primary suite. Multiple living areas for everyone... a great room, dining, family, recreation room. Chet Kenoyer 360-303-1450

Gina Kenoyer 360-303-7653

8814 Goldeneye Lane

MLS #2144832 $539,000

One of a kind--truly the best of the best-one of the last lots available in Semiahmoo! Perfectly situated on the signature hole of the Palmer

Solar eclipse viewed across the U.S.

Timmons bill increasing retiree benefits signed into law

B y N ola N B

aker

House Bill 1985, sponsored by 42nd legislative district state representative Joe Timmons, which offers a three percent cost-of-living increase for retired state employees and teachers, was signed into law.

The bill passed unanimously through the state house on February 6 and unanimously through the senate on February 28. Governor Jay Inslee signed the law March 26.

Public employees and teach-

er pension plans, unlike other state pensions, have not included cost-of-living adjustments since 2011, when a benefit known as the Uniform COLA was repealed. That plan included three percent annual increases between 1995 to 2011, and those pension programs only received four increases in the 13 years since repeal.

The bill would allow for an increase of up to $110 a month for the state’s retired teachers and public employees.

“Our seniors deserve to age with the respect they deserve. HB 1985

builds upon a theme I started in my first year in Olympia to help older adults fare better in times of rising costs and high inflation,” Timmons wrote in a statement.

In 2023, Timmons co-sponsored HB 1431, which stopped charging sales tax on prepared meals for tenants at senior living communities.

Timmons continued, “HB 1985 builds upon this work by supporting our seniors with a COLA to their retirement money they have come to rely on to live with grace and dignity.”

Road Rules: Intersection artwork

B y d ou G d ahl

Question: Lately I’ve driven through some intersections that have artwork painted on the pavement, including some multi-colored crosswalks. I think it looks great, but I wonder if it distracts drivers and makes intersections less safe. And is it legal to paint crosswalks whatever color you want? I thought there were rules that specified the colors for crosswalks and other street markings.

Answer: I have often said (possibly to the point of irritation) that predictability is a core component in safe driving. When we follow traffic laws, other drivers can better anticipate our actions, and it creates harmony and safety on the road. But what about our transportation infrastructure? Should the markings on the roadways also be predictable? Yes, they should.

Imagine if every county and city decided how to mark roadways independent of each other. Absent a national standard, each jurisdiction could choose whatever colors and patterns they wanted to mark their fog lines, bike lanes, and crosswalks. An artsy town might paint a centerline of salmon spawning up the road. Fortunately, we have bureaucracy. That’s not a sentence you hear every day. The Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices (MUTCD) sets the standard for road signs, signals, and mark-

ings. States adopt the MUTCD (sometimes with some changes) as state law.

Some cities permit, and even encourage neighborhoods (with proper permits) to paint art in crosswalks and intersections. But the MUTCD states in bold text, “Crosswalk markings shall be white.” How do neighborhoods get away with painting multicolored crosswalks without running afoul of the law? And how can cities encourage their citizens to violate the law? As you might have guessed, they don’t.

There are a variety of ways to mark a crosswalk; the two most common are a pair of parallel lines or a series of bars. Those lines or bars are required to be white. However, the interstitial space isn’t part of the crosswalk marks. In fact, the latest version of the MUTCD includes “provisions for aesthetic treatments for the interior portion of a legally established crosswalk.”

As long as your artwork doesn’t cause confusion for pedestrians with vision disabilities, uses colors that are outside the range used for traffic markings, doesn’t include advertising, and doesn’t encourage loitering in the crosswalk (because the design is so interesting that people don’t want to leave) you’re in good standing with the MUTCD.

But just because it’s legal doesn’t mean it’s a good idea. If crosswalk

and intersection art cause more crashes, that’s a problem. And I can see why you might suspect that. Could the novelty of art in the street distract drivers from where they should be looking? It turns out, no. Until recently, this was speculative. But a 2022 study of multiple asphalt art sites found a 50 percent decrease in crashes involving pedestrians after the art was installed. Let’s say that again. 50 percent decrease. The only passive intervention I can think of with a greater positive impact is roundabouts. The same study showed positive behavior changes, too. Drivers yielded to pedestrians more often, and pedestrians crossed when the “don’t walk” sign was illuminated less often.

Asphalt art is legal (with reasonable limits) and, at least according to the only study out there so far, it has a remarkably positive impact on traffic safety, especially for pedestrians. Meanwhile, pedestrian traffic fatalities have more than doubled in the past decade. If intersection and crosswalk art is allowed in your city, maybe it’s time to rally the neighbors (especially the artistic ones), grab your paint brushes, and transform your streets. (After following all approval and permit processes, of course.)

Doug Dahl is a manager with the Washington Traffic Safety Commission, Region 11 and publishes thewisedrive.com.

s Millions of people were estimated to have traveled to see the 2024 solar eclipse in its path of totality on April 8. Among those travelers was The Northern Light’s Molly Ernst and her family who watched the eclipse from a park in Shelbyville, Indiana. According to NASA, the next solar eclipse won’t occur in the U.S. until August 23, 2044.

Photo by Maddy Ernst

sheriff’s reports

March 29, 9:52 a.m.: Moving vehicle accident arrest on Zell Road.

March 29, 12:02 p.m.: Fraud cold call on Lighthouse Drive.

March 29, 1:40 p.m.: Missing person on Sandcastle Drive.

March 29, 1:42 p.m.: Forgery cold call on Sweet Road.

March 29, 2:58 p.m.: Prowler cold call on Semiahmoo Drive.

March 29, 8:37 p.m.: Domestic – physical on Birch Bay Lynden Road.

March 30, 1:15 a.m.: Vehicle theft cold call on Glendale Drive.

March 30, 10:10 a.m.: Subject with weapon on Grandview Road.

March 31, 7:29 a.m.: Warrant arrest on Gemini Street.

March 31, 8:20 a.m.: Suspicious vehicle cold call on Semiahmoo Drive.

March 31, 10:22 a.m.: Domestic order violence cold call on Glendale Drive.

March 31, 10:21 p.m.: Prowler on Bayvue Road.

April 1, 7:14 p.m.: Hit and run on Birch Bay Lynden Road.

April 1, 10:25 p.m.: Drugs on Catalina Court.

April 1, 10:39 p.m.: Suspicious vehicle on Catalina Court.

April 2, 7:10 a.m.: DUI arrest on Birch Bay Lynden Road.

April 2, 12:33 p.m.: Theft cold call on East Street.

April 2, 5:18 p.m.: Simple assault on Valley View Road.

April 3, 8:05 a.m.: Theft cold call on Lonicera Drive.

April 3, 2:19 p.m.: Domestic order violence on Bayshore Drive.

April 3, 8:40 a.m.: Vehicle abandoned on Portal Way.

April 4, 5:45 p.m.: Suspicious circumstances on Sunrise Road.

poliCe reports

March 30, 8:54 a.m.: Suspicious person on 5th Street.

March 30, 1:30 p.m.: Trespass on Peace Portal Drive.

April 1, 12:52 a.m.: Fight on F Street.

April 1, 1:43 a.m.: Death investigation on Peace Portal Drive.

April 1, 10:53 a.m.: Burglary on E Street.

April 2, 9:12 a.m.: Suspicious person on Marine Drive.

April 2, 5:32 p.m.: Suspicious circumstances on G Street.

April 3, 1:59 p.m.: Harassment on E Street.

CrossWord

tions 53. City in S. Korea 55. Particular region 56. They have eyes and noses

58. Tear 59. Large Madagascan lemur

60. Not out

61. Ornamental saddle covering 64. A driver’s license is one 65. Latin term for charity 67. Rechristens

April 3, 5:32 p.m.: Juvenile problem on H Street.

April 3, 8:24 p.m.: Traffic hazard on Bayview Avenue.

April 4, 8:26 a.m.: Traffic hazard on Peace Portal Drive.

April 4, 5:09 p.m.: Brandishing on Peace Portal Drive.

April 4, 6:14 p.m.: Burglary on 4th Street.

April 5, 3:12 a.m.: Sex crime (no rape) on Kinglsey Avenue.

April 5, 10:35 a.m.: Burglary on Peace Portal Drive.

57. Self-immolation by fire ritual

59. Private school in New York

62. Political action committee

63. A way to fashion

66. Email reply

68. “The Great Lake State”

tides

April 11-17 at Blaine. Not for navigation.

49° 0’ 0”N - 122° 46’ 0”W

32. Ancient Frankish law code

35. Popular pickup truck

37. Buzzing insect

38. Deal illegally

39. Lying in the same plane

42. Obstruct

43. Related

46. Challenge aggressively

47. Nocturnal hoofed animals

49. Bird’s nests

50. Forays

52. __ B. de Mille, filmmaker

54. Title of respect

55. One-time name of Vietnam

Coming up

Community Breakfast: Saturdays, 8–11 a.m., American Legion Post 86, 4580 Legion Drive. All-you-can-eat pancakes $5, kids 4 and under get free pancakes. Other breakfast items available for purchase. Hosted by G.O.A.T. Sandwiches. Info: 360/296-4204. Portion of proceeds benefits the American Legion.

Spring Fever Event: Wednesday–Saturdays through April 24, 11 a.m.–4 p.m., The Bridge Community Hope Center Boutique, 7620 Birch Bay Drive. Info: thebridgehope.com or 360/366-8763.

Pizza, Primaries and Politics: Thursday, April 11, 5:30–7:30 p.m., Whatcom Community College’s Sure Student Center, 237 West Kellogg Road, Bellingham. Learn more about how and why primary elections work the way they do, including their history, how they can be improved and how we can improve representation. Free. Sponsored by League of Women Voters of Bellingham-Whatcom County. Info: bit.ly/4avqeSB.

Trivia at The Vault: Thursday, April 4, 7 p.m., The Vault Wine Bar + Bistro, 277 G Street. This week’s theme: general knowledge. Info: thevaultwine.com.

Whatcom County Home and Lifestyle Show: Friday–Sunday, April 12–14, 10 a.m.–6 p.m., Northwest Washington Fairgrounds, 1775 Front Street, Lynden. Free admission. Fun of all ages including over 200 exhibitors, seminars, PNWBA barbecue competition, Lego Masters building class, beer garden, kids activities, reptile show, and food trucks. Info: biawc.com/home-show-2024/. Sponsored by the Building Industry Association of Whatcom County.

Live Music at The Vault: Friday, April 12, 7 p.m, The Vault Wine Bar + Bistro, 277 G Street. Featuring: Michael Dayvid. Info: thevaultwine.com. Arts and Crafts Event: Saturday, April 13, 10 a.m.–3 p.m., The Pavilion at Blaine Community Center, 635 8th Street. Shop from 17 vendors. For info, text 360/318-6300.

Coffee Hour with Senator Sharon Shewmake: Saturday, April 13, noon–1 p.m., Birch Bay Visitor Center, 4819 Alderson Road, Unit 103. Info: birchbaychamber.com.

Big Bucks Bingo: Saturday, April 13, Blaine Senior Center, 763 G Street. Over $275 in prizes. Early bird starts at 12:30 p.m. Regular bingo at 1 p.m. Eight games $15. Lunch available for $8. Info: 360/332-8040.

Hands for Hope Auction and Gala: Saturday, April 13, 5–10 p.m., Silver Reef Casino Event Center. Join us for an out-of-this-world evening benefiting Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault Services of Whatcom County! Costumes welcome. $50/couple or $500/table. Info and tickets: bit.ly/49jV67F.

Haynie Grange Breakfast: Sunday, April 14, 8 a.m.–noon, 3344 Haynie Road. Pancake breakfast at the Haynie Grange, $10 for your choice of pancakes, French toast, biscuits and gravy, eggs, ham, coffee, tea, milk and orange juice.

Chess: Tuesday, April 16, 3–4 p.m., Blaine Library 610 3rd Street. An open, drop-in program for chess players of all ages and abilities to play one another. Info: wcls.org.

LEGO Club: Wednesday, April 17, 3–4 p.m., Blaine Library, 610 3rd Street. Design, build and share at this weekly drop-in program for ages four and up. LEGO bricks provided, you bring the creativity. Info: wcls.org.

Kombucha and Fermented Apple Cider Vinegar: Wednesday, April 17, 5–7 p.m., Blaine Senior Center, 763 G Street. Come learn about kombucha at this fun, informative presentation. Sampling different flavors, demonstrating how to make your own and sending you home with your own culture (SCOBY) to start brewing. Info: nwcore.org.

Birch Bay Chamber of Commerce Luncheon: Thursday, April 18, 11:30 a.m.–1 p.m., Bay Breeze Restaurant, 7829 Birch Bay Drive. Speaker: Hunter Hassig with Puget Sound Energy to talk about their Small Business Energy Efficiency Blitz. Info and RSVP: birchbaychamber.com.

Blaine Chamber Happy Hour: Thursday, April 18, 4–5:30 p.m., Black Forest Steakhouse, 638 Peace Portal Drive. No-host business networking. RSVP encouraged: director@blainechamber.com.

Whatcom Literacy Council’s Annual Trivia Bee: Thursday, April 18, 6–8 p.m. A fast-paced and interactive platform for an online trivia night akin to Jeopardy! Register your team (three people) for $75, or just watch for free. Info and registration: whatcomliteracy.org.

BHS Theater Presents “Mamma Mia!”: Thursday–Saturday, April 1820, 25–27, 7 p.m. and Sunday, April 21 and 28, 2 p.m., Blaine Performing Arts Center. Blaine High School students perform in the musical. Tickets: $12, students and seniors $10.

Weather

Precipitation: During the period of April 1 to April 7, 0.3 inches of precipitation was recorded. The 2024 year-todate precipitation is 11.6 inches.

Temperature: High for the past week was 65.2°F on April 1 with a low of 40.4°F on April 3. Average high was 58.4°F and average low was 42.4°F.

Air Tools, The Great Equalizer: Saturday, April 20, 9–11 a.m., Blaine Senior Center, 763 G Street. Air tools can make hard work easy enough for anyone to accomplish. Air tools can fasten, disassemble, cut, grind, chisel, blow, paint and more. Come give it a try. Presentation and hands on tool demo. Info: nwcore.org.

Broken Star: Heroic tales of Harriet Beecher Stowe and Harriet Tubman: Saturday, April 20, 1:30 p.m., Grace Lutheran Church, 702 G Street. Debbie Dimitre, storyteller and actress entertains, inspires and educates audiences of all ages with her historical and dramatic storytelling presentations. Info: 360/332-6589.

Working Waterfront Coalition Fundraiser: Saturday, April 20, 5:30 p.m., Bellingham Ferry Terminal, 355 Harris Avenue, Bellingham. Live and silent auction, Drayton Harbor Oyster bar, photo booth, seafood buffet by Crave Catering. Old Hollywood Theme - dress for the red carpet from the 1920s-40s or come as you are. Tickets $95 at bit. ly/3x11vqW.

Beginning Birding by Ear: Sunday, April 21, 9 a.m.–noon, Point Whitehorn Marine Reserve. Hone your skills in identifying birds by ear as you learn to recognize avian species by their calls and songs. Space is limited. Registration required: bit.ly/3VCsROu. Sponsored by North Cascades Audubon Society.

Blaine book club review: ‘The Chaos Machine’

ple than ever before. Social media provides platforms and spaces for people to share their thoughts and views, no matter how outlandish or niche, and find others who think the same.

Through journalistic analysis, Fisher builds the case that the harm social media has wrought far outweighs the benefit, and that guilt lies at the feet of social media moguls who care more for the bottom line than making the world a better place.

vide you with something to ponder and discuss, whatever your political persuasion.

“The Chaos Machine” is the April selection for the Books &

Max Fisher, an international reporter and columnist, has written extensively on diplomacy, conflict and social change. In “The Chaos Machine,” Fisher turns his journalistic lens to the world of social media and its impact on society.

The advent of social media has brought about many changes over the past 20-plus years, but probably the greatest is the expansion of our sphere of influence and connection. It’s hard to imagine a world where we couldn’t connect with friends and family around the world at a moment’s notice. Yet social media has broadened the definition of “friends and family” and has allowed us to connect with more peo -

To do this, Fisher draws on real world examples of genocides and hate crimes that have been propelled by the reach of social media. He zeroes in on the political and social polarization social media fosters, as well as its propensity to create echo chambers and overinflate extreme voices and perspectives. All while likening our unchecked use of social media to the unregulated days of tobacco, and by comparing our struggle with social media to a confrontation with HAL 9000, the homicidal AI from the novel and film, “2001: A Space Odyssey.”

People should read “The Chaos Machine” to assess its full rhetorical weight. I can’t help but feel that behind Fisher’s argument lingers the shadow of an unconventional presidential election in 2016 and the capital riots of 2021, and the desire to find context for these events.

Much like social media itself, “The Chaos Machine” will pro -

Bites book group. Join Books & Bites at 1 p.m. Friday, April 19 at the Blaine library for a time of community and lively conversation. For more informa -

tion, visit bit.ly/4cGwb0X.

Jonathan Jakobitz is an avid reader and the branch manager of Blaine Public Library.

s Jonathan Jakobitz holds “The Chaos Machine.” Courtesy photo