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s Travel writer and T.V. personality Rick Steves highlights Blaine in the second video of a three-video series where he explores Whatcom County. In the episode, Steves meets with Blaine harbormaster Andy Peterson (above) at Blaine Marina, visits Peace Arch State Park and the Drayton Harbor Oyster farm. Videos can be viewed at bellingham.org. See more on page 9. Photo by Louise Mugar
Blaine school board asks county officials to listen to parents against mask and vaccine mandates By Ian Haupt In a letter sent September 7 to Whatcom County elected representatives, the Blaine school board requested county officials listen to community members against the state’s mask and vaccination mandates. The letter comes after 15 parents voiced their concerns at the August 23 school board meeting about the state mandates requiring students to wear masks and K-12 staff to get fully vaccinated against Covid-19.
The letter was addressed to state senator Doug Erickson (R-Ferndale) and state representatives Alicia Rule (D-Blaine) and Sharon Shewmake (D-Bellingham). It said the new mandates are causing parents to withdraw students from school and that the Blaine community was being divided and eroded by the removal of power of the board to make local decisions. The letter goes on to request that representatives consider the concerns of all their constituents to ensure proper legal government function.
State utilities moratorium ends September 30 On Thursday, September 30, the state utility moratorium will expire for the first time since governor Jay Inslee enacted the emergency measure on energy and water bills in March 2020. Inslee issued the final extension July 2. Over half a million Washington residents are at risk of having utility services turned off because of overdue bills, according to the Washington Utilities and Transportation Commission (WUTC). About half of Washington residents use private energy utilities and 280,000 of those residents
have overdue bills. The state’s private utilities are Puget Sound Energy, PacifiCorp, Avista, Northwest Natural Gas and Cascade Natural Gas. To help, private utility companies have spent more than $28.5 million in assistance funds. Consumer-owned utility companies, serving about 60 percent of the state, have waived late fees, delayed rate increases, established customer payment plans, created relief programs and made those programs more encompassing.
People at risk of having their utilities turned off should contact their utilities operators as soon as they can, according to an August 30 Washington state Utilities and Transportation Commission media release. Assistance will vary by utility provider, but some utility companies are offering payment plans, financial assistance and federal assistance for low-income residents. WUTC-regulated private utility companies will not charge late fees until April (See Utilities, page 13)
“Our community members and our school board are asking that the legislators listen to the citizens of Washington and Whatcom County regardless of their political affiliation. Many of those who are speaking out on this topic are from different ends of the political spectrum, but they do not feel like they are being heard and included in the decision making,” the letter reads. The letter said the board also heard from (See Letter, page 6)
INSIDE
The Biden administration announced September 20 it plans to loosen air travel restrictions beginning in November. Currently, residents of 33 countries are unable to visit the U.S. including the European Union, England, China, South Africa and India, among others. Visitors will be required to be fully vaccinated and have a negative Covid-19 test result within 72 hours of their departure to the U.S. White House pandemic coordinator Jeffrey Zients said the changes do not apply to the land borders. That has politicians on the border seeing red. “Another month brings another border extension. That means more unpredictability, suffering, and frustration for our border communities. It does not follow the science to say Canadians can fly from Vancouver to Seattle but cannot drive from British Columbia to Whatcom County. It is a disservice to families and businesses along the border that vaccinated Americans can travel north to Canada, but we have not reciprocated,” congresswoman Suzan DelBene said. “The Biden administration must take immediate steps to reopen the Canada/U.S. border to vaccinated Canadians.” New York congressman Brian Higgins was equally unsparing in his reaction: “Continued closure of the U.S. border to vaccinated Canadians is completely unnecessary and unexplained. “It is welcome news that the White House is making progress on reciprocating international public health measures to protect air travelers. Yet it is inexplicable that no announcement on easing travel restrictions at land ports of entry is being made today since the livelihoods of communities across the Northern Border depend on cross-border commerce.” The current U.S. restrictions were due to expire September 21; however, these were extended until October 21 marking the 19th month of closure. Given that Zients said that travel over the land border would not be relaxed when air travel is in November, it seems likely that land restrictions will extend at least into November.
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The Northern Light • September 23 - 29, 2021
New Blaine Chamber of Commerce director looks ahead to Blaine events
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s The Blaine Chamber of Commerce recently hired Sheila Wood as its new executive director. Photo by Grace McCarthy
By Grace McCarthy Blaine Chamber of Commerce welcomes Sheila Wood as its new executive director. Wood brings in an array of experience, from her family’s event planning business in Woodinville to being part of the team that transformed Spokane’s Riverfront Park. “A lot of the time people won’t get together unless there’s someone to host, and I love being the person to host,” she said. “This job is like that. I love being the person to help other people have fun and have an enjoyable experience.” Wood grew up in Woodinville and watched her mom rent out their house as a wedding venue, which she said embedded a love for party planning in her from a young age. At Washington State
University, Wood earned degrees in psychology and sociology, before returning to the Seattle area to work in the restaurant industry. Spokane City Park and Recreation Department hired Wood for a two-year contract position, where she helped redevelop the city’s main park, Riverfront Park. In that position, she designed the pavilion’s interior, among other responsibilities. Wood moved to Birch Bay at the beginning of 2021 after her fiancé was hired as a pharmacist in Everson. Wood said she had never visited Blaine or Birch Bay, but was immediately drawn to working in the area. Wood said she looks forward to becoming active in the community and meeting more busi-
ness leaders. On Wood’s itinerary for events this year is the annual scarecrow competition and the Holiday Harbor Lights that dress up downtown Blaine. Although Wood is still transitioning to the new role, she said she has many ideas for the future – including a winter holiday bazaar. “Blaine is such a cute town and I didn’t really know it existed until I moved here,” Wood said. “Especially in the summer, it’s a destination. People come on vacation here. It’s really cute. There’s lots of opportunities for more events in Blaine.” When not working, Wood enjoys remodeling her Birch Bay home, running and going on walks with her 1-year-old German shepherd, Josie.
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By Meg OlsOn Whatcom County Council has approved changes to county code that will eliminate exemptions to mandatory garbage pickup in Point Roberts. At their June 5 meeting, council heard from an almost evenly split 15 community members on the proposal, which would establish a mandatory minimum service level of a 32-gallon can of garbage to be picked up twice-monthly and billed through the property tax roll. Opponents of the proposal cited a number of reasons for their opposition, priFREE Community Newspaper of Blaine and Birch Bay September 9 - 15, 2021 marily that the minimum service level was too high. “This exceeds the needs of 80 HHHECRWSSHHH Postal Customer PRSRT STD percent of those surveyed (in a 2016 onU. S. Postage PAID line survey sponsored by the county solid IN THIS Permit NO. 87 waste division) who self-haul or use tags,” Blaine, WA 98230 Kimberly Butts said. Ken Calder, also opposed to the chang- s Back in 1976, a group of civic-minded people got together to plan a 4th of July celebration, the first since 1916. On June 20, they had a reunion at Ruby White’s house. See story, page 16. Standing, from l.: Fred DeHaan, Rosy Negron, Carla Scherer, Pauli DeHaan, George es, submitted a petition signed by 364 sea- Scherer, Pat Jorgensen, Doreen Peltier. Seated: Norma Peltier, Ruby White, Kris Manning. Photo by Shelley Damewood sonal and full-time residents asking that council delay the decision until September to allow a recently formed solid waste subcommittee of the Point Roberts Community Advisory Committee to continue to look at the issue. Cites client base and “increasing erts hospital district on June 26 that Unity according to Unity Care. Those in favor of the change as well as Care NW would end its contract to proThe number of people being served at community turmoil” county staff pointed out that PRCAC had vide services on the Point as of December the Point Roberts Clinic, as well as the 31, 2018, but would provide services on a number of visits, have been declining, acB y G r a c e M c c a r t h ybeen pondering the garbage collection B y M e g O l s O n for over two years, held numerous public a n d P a t g r u B B month-to-month basis if needed until June cording to the resolution. The number of If you struggle to balance a healthy bud- sponsored an online survey and meetings, 30, 2019 and help with a possible transi- visits per year shrank from 1176 to 1033 get, local nonprofits are here to help. sent out a mailer. Unity Care NW is done with the Point tion to an alternative service provider. between 2015 and 2017, which is deFinancial literacy nonprofit Whatcom “There have been numerous opportuni- Roberts clinic. According to the June 25 resolution, the (See Hospital, page 8) Dream will offer six money management ties for people to put in their two cents’ Citing declining use, a disproportionate Point Roberts Clinic does not fit with classes from Tuesday, September 28 until Arthur Reber said. “This process administrative burden and “communi- the other clinics Unity Care NW operworth,” Tuesday, November 2 at the new Commuhas been very thorough and collaborative,” ty turmoil,” the board of directors of the ates in Ferndale and Bellingham, which nity Assistance Program (CAP) building, said taxpayers’ association president Mark non-profit health care provider voted at its it described as “patient centered medi508 G Street. Classes will be held 6:30Robbins. Chamber of commerce president June 25 meeting to discontinue the con- cal homes.” Close to half of the visits to allpointbulletin.com 7:30 p.m. every Tuesday. Dee Gough said her association also sup- tract to operate the Point Roberts Clinic. the Point Roberts clinic are for urgent facebook.com/allpointbulletin Whatcom Dream is a nonprofit that ported the proposal, agreeing that mandaNotice was delivered to the Point Rob- care, and not for primary medical care, started in Bellingham in 1999 to tory educate trash pickup was the obvious solution residents struggling with finances. The to the perennial problem of dumping garnonprofit’s founders realized thebage reason on the roadsides. Classifieds ........................................ 20 why their working low-income neighbors Jeff Hegedus with the Whatcom County Coming Up ...................................... 19 remained in poverty was because they Health Department said by establishing a B y M e g O l s O n running three weekends in August. didn’t know how to manage money propGarden ............................................. 15 mandatory minimum service level for all Kiniski’s Reef Tavern is partnering with erly, said Kevin Stray, a Whatcom Dream Library ............................................ 18 developed properties, as determined by “The Point Roberts Arts and Music the foundation, offering a location, planvolunteer who will teach the Blaine classes which properties have a water connection, Festival is back on the water,” says Arts ning assistance and funds for this year’s Obituaries ........................................ 22 this fall. it would lead to vendor stability because Foundation founder and festival organizer event. “We decided to make it longer so Opinion .............................................. 4 “We think finances are an important more users would support the system. Craig Jacks. more people can enjoy it,” said tavern slice of everyone’s life and if we can hanSeniors ............................................ 18 After being put on the shelf for a year, manager Allison Calder. The first weekend dle [money] well, we can make everyone’s Tides ................................................ 10 (See Garbage, page 7) the festival will be back for its 23rd year, (See Arts & Music, page 14) lives better,” he said. The classes will teach budgeting, handling new and old debt, credit scores and history, achieving and maintaining finan- s Birch Bay’s seaside festival offered another weekend of family fun September 3-5. The Birch Bay Chamber of Commerce hosted the cial stability, retirement planning and the fun-filled event, with help from Blaine-Birch Bay Park and Recreation District 2 and Friends of Birch Bay Library. Attendees enjoyed activities such as a pancake breakfast, outdoor kid games and rubber duck derby. More photos on page 16. psychology behind money. AFTER Photo PARADE FAMILY ACTIVITIES: BEGIN THE DAY AT THE by Chuck Kinzer/CKimageart.com Stray, who has a business degree from St. Martin’s University, said he sees peo- Community Center 1437 Gulf Rd. H Breakwaters Bar & Grill STARTS AT 12 NOON along POINT ROBERTS MARINA ple struggle the most with debt, long-termPancake Breakfast 7:15-11:15 am PREP benefit at Point Roberts Marina. Gulf Rd. from Marine Dr. to Tyee Dr. planning and responsible spending. AT 10:30 PM Flag Raising Ceremony 11:30 am featuring PR Winds H Kiniski’s Reef Tavern Financial classes are geared toward people earning low incomes, but Stray said all are welcome. Classes will be offered to about 20 people, but there’s not a set limit. Scheduling foot warehouse in September 2020 that al- cused on what he can control. in advance is recommended, but attendees B y G r a c e M c c a r t h y lowed it to store over 20,000 boxes awaitTodd Robinson, Security Mail Services can also show up to the classes. Over a year-and-a-half after the U.S./ ing cross-border customers. manager, echoed Baron’s sentiments. The “We hope a lot of people will be inter“We used up all of the creativity we had last year-and-a-half has been hard but with ested, come out, learn more about money Canada border closure and Blaine mailbox and how to deal with it,” Stray said. “We’re stores wait patiently for the return of loyal to maximize the space we had, which is boxes stacked high around him, he said always excited to put on another class in Canadian customers, all while they’ve set- what prompted renting the warehouse,” he’s in a much better place than he would tled into an adapted business routine. Baron said. have predicted. Blaine.” Mail Boxes International owner Brant Baron and other mailbox operators are “When [the border] first closed down, I The program will offer free financial mentoring to people who finish the course. Baron said his parcel store has changed its mostly catering to Canadian companies would have never anticipated being closed No childcare is available during the eve- business strategy to stay busy during the that need products from the U.S. forward- this long. I thought three months, maybe, ed. Although business has been better, he tops,” Robinson said. “I’m pleased with ning classes, so people will need to plan border closure. To deal with parcels yet to be picked up, emphasized his situation is not detrimen(See Financial classes, page 4) (See Box stores, page 2) the H Street business rented a 4,800-square- tal and he has leaned into his faith and fo-
ISSUE
Former BHS student wins big with tuba, page 5
Borderite sports are back, page 7
YEARS HEADING EAST TO THE SAGEBRUSH SEA
Blaine featured in new novel, page 10
Discover Birch Bay Days brings community fun Free financial Unity Care NW decides against renewing clinic contract literacy class offered in Blaine
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Single-use plastic bags ban starts October 1 By eMily Feek Sales of single-use plastic bags will be banned in Washington state beginning on October 1 after governor Jay Inslee rescinded the proclamation delaying the original January 1, 2021 start date. The ban prohibits the sale of single-use plastic bags for grocery stores, restaurants, small vendors and retail businesses, according to a department of ecology (DOE) press release. Instead of using these bags, businesses can either sell customers bags
that are compliant with the ban or customers can bring reusable bags. Stores can sell paper bags or more durable plastic bags for eight cents. The eight-cent charge, mandated by law, is not a tax, but is kept by the merchant both to encourage customers to bring their own bags and to account for the increased cost of compliant bags. While the ban goes into effect on October 1, businesses can implement changes sooner, said Dave Bennett, DOE solid waste management program spokesperson.
“Nothing is preventing a business from charging a fee and using compliant bags right now,” Bennett said. “We encourage those businesses to do that and start making those changes now.” The bag ban is intended to cut down on pollution caused by plastic bags, which are difficult to recycle and can clog recycling sorting machines, according to the DOE. In addition to the ban, Inslee signed a new state law regarding plastics use and (See Plastic bags, page 4)
INSIDE
Blaine mailbox stores use creativity as they wait for the U.S. to open Canada border
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Covid-19 in Whatcom County, by school district boundaries: Recent two-week case rates, cumulative counts and vaccinations By Grace McCarthy Covid-19 case rates have decreased in all school district areas in Whatcom County in the past week, the first time they’ve done so since Covid-19 cases started increasing in late July due to the spread of the Delta variant. However, numbers still remain high as they decline from the most recent peak in Covid-19 cases. Whatcom County has had 496 new probable and confirmed Covid-19 cases since last week, according to September 20 Washington State Department of Health data. The death toll in Whatcom County is now at 131 for Covid-19 deaths, which accounts for .9 percent of total cases. On September 21, 28 people at PeaceHealth St. Joseph Medical Center in Bellingham had either been admitted for Covid-19 or tested positive for Covid-19 after being admitted for another reason. Covid-19 case rates have decreased among all age groups since last week. Children 17 years old and younger now have the highest Covid-19 transmissions in the county, with 564 cases per 100,000 people, and people 2544 years old follow closely behind with 503 cases per 100,000. The Whatcom County health department released its weekly Covid-19 data report on September 16 that analyzes Covid-19 information from the week of September 5. The report found Covid-19 case rates in Whatcom County were highest that week than any other time during the pandemic. The report also highlighted the following: • Weekly case rates among people who were unvaccinated were five times that of people who were fully vaccinated.
Blaine Vaccination: 66% Case rate: 614 New cases: 78 Ferndale Vaccination: 62% Case rate: 516 New cases: 93
Nooksack Valley Vaccination: 48% Case rate: 400 New cases: 23
Meridian Vaccination: 61% Case rate: 187 New cases: 9
Mount Baker Vaccination: 44% Case rate: 279 New cases: 20
Bellingham Vaccination: 74% Case rate: 296 New cases: 191
s The case rate is the number of confirmed Covid-19 cases per 100,000 people over the past two weeks. New cases are the total number of confirmed Covid-19 cases in the last week. Vaccination is the percentage of the population that has had at least one vaccine shot. Rates were updated September 18. • Unvaccinated residents 12-49 years old were 30 times more likely to be hospitalized for Covid-19 compared to people who were fully vaccinated. For people over 50, those unvaccinated were six times more likely to be hospitalized. • People who were unvaccinated made up 76 percent of confirmed Covid-19 cases. The case rate for unvaccinated individuals was 483 cases per 100,000, while the case rate for fully vaccinated individuals was 86 per 100,000. • Of the 37 people hospitalized that week, four were vaccinated and 33 were unvaccinated or partially vaccinated. • Of the five people who died from Covid-19 the week of September 5, three were fully vaccinated and two were not.
Vaccination rates among PeaceHealth workers With less than a month before governor Jay Inslee’s October 18 deadline for all state employees and healthcare workers to be fully vaccinated, about 95 percent of PeaceHealth employees in Whatcom County are fully vaccinated. PeaceHealth St. Joseph Medical Center in Bellingham and its clinics employ 3,200 people in Whatcom County. Of those, 18 employees quit working at PeaceHealth after the vaccine mandate, PeaceHealth spokesperson Bev Mayhew said in an email to The Northern Light. Mayhew said the employees who left held various jobs, but declined to give specific details. “New variants of Covid-19 are a public health emergency that pose a critical threat to those unable to be vaccinated, including children and the medically vulnerable,” she said. “The rise in hospitalizations – PeaceHealth St. Joseph Medical Center saw the highest number of Covid-19 positive inpatients of the pandemic earlier this month –
Lynden Vaccination: 52% Case rate: 715 New cases: 101
are a stark reminder that we must do more.” Another 1.6 percent, or about 51 employees, have not shared their vaccine status, or have either been denied or not yet requested a medical or religious exemption. Three percent, or 96 employees, have either now had at least one shot of the Covid-19 vaccine or have received an exemption. Mayhew said PeaceHealth expects the numbers to change before the October 18 deadline. At this time, the number of PeaceHealth workers in Whatcom County is similar to what PeaceHealth is seeing across its 16,000 healthcare workers in Washington, Oregon and Alaska. Mayhew said staffing levels in Whatcom County are “where they need to be to care for patients.” She added that change in staffing is common in healthcare and PeaceHealth hires traveling nurses and other staff to support short term staffing gaps.
Vaccine rates in Whatcom County age groups
s The graph above shows vaccination rates among age groups in Whatcom County as of September 18. Light grey indicates the percent of people who have had at least one Covid-19 shot and dark grey indicates the percent of people who are fully vaccinated.
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Opinion
The Northern L ght The Northern Light is published weekly by Point Roberts Press Inc. Locally owned and managed, the company also publishes the All Point Bulletin, covering Point Roberts, Mount Baker Experience, covering the Mt. Baker foothills area, Pacific Coast Weddings annual guide, and the summer recreation guide Waterside as well as maps and other publications. Point Roberts Press Inc. is a member of the Washington Newspaper Publishers Association, Chambers of Commerce of Bellingham/ Whatcom County, Birch Bay, Blaine and Point Roberts and the Bellingham/ Whatcom County Convention and Visitors Bureau. The opinions expressed by contributors are their own and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the editors. Letters Policy The Northern Light welcomes letters to the editor. Please include name, address and daytime telephone number for verification. Letters are limited to 350 words and may be edited or rejected for reasons of legality, length and good taste. Thank-you letters are limited to five individuals or groups. Writers should avoid personal invective. Unsigned letters will not be accepted for publication. Requests for withholding names will be considered on an individual basis. Consumer complaints should be submitted directly to the business in question or the local chamber of commerce. Only one letter per month from an individual correspondent will be published. Email letters to letters@thenorthernlight.com. Publisher & Managing Editor Patrick Grubb publisher@pointrobertspress.com Co-publisher & Advertising Director Louise Mugar lmugar@pointrobertspress.com
Peace Arch centennial celebrated downtown
s The city of Blaine recently hung banners along Peace Portal Drive to celebrate the Peace Arch centennial this year. The September 6 centennial marked 100 years since the 1921 dedication of the Peace Arch, a 67-foot monument that reflects peace and partnership between the U.S. and Canada. Photo by Grace McCarthy
Letters
Editor Grace McCarthy grace@pointrobertspress.com Reporter Ian Haupt ian@pointrobertspress.com Creative Services Ruth Lauman, Doug De Visser production@pointrobertspress.com Office Manager Jeanie Luna info@pointrobertspress.com Advertising Sales Molly Ernst, Gary Lee sales@pointrobertspress.com General Editorial Inquiries editor@pointrobertspress.com Contributors In This Issue Doug Dahl, Emily Feek The Northern Light 225 Marine Drive, Suite 200, Blaine, WA 98230 Tel: 360/332-1777
The Editor: It has come to my recent attention after an incident involving the fire department and public utilities being called in during modification of access gate on the 8th Street truck crossing. I, along with my neighbors, understood only in an emergency would vehicles be allowed entrance and exiting onto residential 8th Street but was verbally explained that the rules have now changed without the city’s approval. This matter is deeply concerning regarding the safety of all Blaine residents, along with property owners that reside on 8th Street and nearby. I’m asking for editor’s investigation into this matter for residents of Blaine. Marvin Adam Blaine The Editor: Much has already been said about the importance of a local library serving residents of Birch Bay, and it’s all true. It will benefit every age group, from school-age
kids to seniors like me; whether doing homework, accessing the internet for research, job search, ‘news’ or entertainment; whether reading newspapers in a warm, comfortable space, or chatting with friends at book club meetings. And you can check out books and digital media from every corner of Whatcom County – all at no charge. I wanted to say just a little about the location of the new library: It’s right in the heart of Birch Bay. Many residents will be able to walk there, or ride their bicycle, e-bike or golf cart as quickly and easily as a trip to the beach. I live just up the hill from the chamber’s visitor center, in Sea Links, and it’s a healthy 8-minute walk down to the library site for summer events, meetings or to pick up a reserve book from the Whatcom County Library System bookmobile (on site each Wednesday 3-7 p.m.). Contrast that with traveling to a library in either Blaine or Ferndale. Both are excellent, friendly resources, but their distance, with narrow or nonexistent road
shoulders along the way, make biking or walking infeasible; you either drive your car or forget about it. Of course, once you’re on Birch Bay Drive, you might as well stop for a tasty meal or partake in a microbrew from our very own Beach Cat Brewing while you read your latest book. Please vote “yes” on Proposition 14. Brian Bell Birch Bay Please send letters to letters@thenorthernlight.com no later than noon on Monday.
Correction In an article titled “New administrators at Blaine school district,” in the September 16 issue of The Northern Light, Beth Eide and Kristen Morris’s names were swapped in the caption. We regret the error.
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Civic Meetings Birch Bay Water & Sewer District: Second and fourth Thursdays, 4 p.m., district offices, 7096 Point Whitehorn Road, Birch Bay. Info and Zoom meeting link: bbwsd.com.
Blaine-Birch Bay Park and Recreation: Second Tuesday, 5:30 p.m., location varies. Info: bbbparkandrec.org. Virtual meeting info: bbbparkandrec.org/board-meetings.
Blaine City Council: Second and fourth Mondays, 6 p.m., Blaine City Council chambers, 435 Martin Street. Info and virtual meeting login: ci.blaine.wa.us.
Blaine Park and Cemetery Board: Second Thursday, 9 a.m., virtual meeting. Info: 360/332-8311, ext. 3330.
Blaine Planning Commission: Second and fourth Thursdays, 6 p.m. Info: blainepc@cityofblaine.com. Info for joining Zoom meetings: bit.ly/2CiMKnk.
Blaine School Board: Fourth Monday, 7 p.m., Blaine school district offices. Info and virtual meeting link: blainesd.org. North Whatcom Fire & Rescue: Third Thursday, 1 p.m. Info: nwfrs.net.
September 23 - 29, 2021 • thenorthernlight.com
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Blaine bulkhead removal project is in the final stages s The Port of Bellingham’s bulkhead removal project at the sawtooth pier in Blaine Harbor is in the final stages of construction, Port of Bellingham senior project engineer Greg Nicoll said in an email to The Northern Light. Construction finished in mid-August and the port is now waiting on materials that are delayed in the supply chain to complete electrical work. Electrical work is expected to be completed by early 2022. The project’s total construction cost is $1,784,604. Photo courtesy Greg Nicoll
CITY OF BLAINE Due to Governor Inslee’s proclamation in response to COVID-19, this City Council meeting will be conducted remotely. Information on how to watch to the meeting live will be on the City Council agenda which is located on the City’s website homepage under Your Government, City Council, City Council Agenda. Please check the agenda prior to each meeting as the location may change.
Thursday, September 23 6:00pm – Planning Commission Meeting
Monday, September 27 6:00pm – City Council Meeting Tuesday, September 28 3:00pm – Civil Service
Commission Meeting *CANCELED*
LWV to host candidate forums for city, port and county The League of Women Voters (LWV) of Bellingham/Whatcom County is hosting virtual candidate forums for the November 2 general election, including Blaine City Council and Blaine school district. The LWV will host its annual forums via Zoom from Friday, October 1 through Saturday, October 16. Zoom links are available on lwvbellinghamwhatcom.org. LWV encourages attendees to submit questions for candidates in advance at bit.ly/2Z9e2I5.
The forums are as follows: • Port of Bellingham commissioners: Friday, October 1 from 6 to 7:15 p.m. • Whatcom County Council: Tuesday, October 5 from 6 to 8:45 p.m. • Blaine school district: Wednesday, October 13 from 7:30 to 8:45 p.m. • Blaine City Council: Thursday, October 14 from 6 to 8:45 p.m. Forums will also be streamed for Ferndale city council and school district, Bellingham city
council and school district and a debate of four Bellingham ballot initiatives. LWV is a nonpartisan organization founded in 1920 that encourages everyone, regardless of gender or age, to participate in government nationwide. The Whatcom County auditor’s office will mail ballots to registered voters Wednesday, October 13. Whatcom County residents have until Monday, October 25 to update their address. People may also register to vote at the audi-
tor’s office at 311 Grand Street in Bellingham, starting Monday, October 25 until 8 p.m. Tuesday, November 2. For more information on the forums, email info@lwvbellinghamwhatcom.org. For the Zoom link to each forum, visit lwvbellinghamwhatcom.org.
Covid-19 documents were confiscated because of security and high volumes of call. CBSA, which detected fake documents well before the pandemic, has a global intelligence network that helps identify fake documents in CBSA’s multi-step process, Brissette Lesage said. The verification process includes ArriveCAN, verification through advanced technology and by CBSA border officers who are trained to examine physical Covid-19 records when not uploaded in ArriveCAN. CBSA declined to elaborate on techniques used to identify falsified
U.S. Coast Guard to offer boat safety class The U.S. Coast Guard is offering online boater education classes from Monday, October 11 to Thursday, October 14. The two-hour classes will be held via Zoom in the evening from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. and an open-book examination will conclude the last session. Taking the course costs $25, $20 for the course and $5 for the online course handbook. The class is geared toward people who need a new Washington state Boating Education Card. Washington State Parks and Rec-
reation Commission will issue a boater education card after participants submit their course certificate and $10. Everyone operating a powerboat in Washington with a horsepower greater than 15 who is over 12 years old or born after January 1, 1955 is required to have a boater education card. For more information on the boater education class, visit bliaux.com and select the “boating classes” drop-down menu or email John Milczewski at boatingsafetywa@gmail.com.
*CANCELED*
Monday, October 11 6:00pm – City Council Meeting Tuesday, October 12 8:00am – Blaine Tourism Advisory Committee Meeting
Contact information for staff and Councilmembers can be found on the City’s website. Call (360) 332-8311 or visit our website.
www.cityofblaine.com
Lighthouse Baptist Church Welcomes you to meetings with
Evangelist Dan Knickerbocker
CBSA confiscates 139 fake Covid-19 tests and six fake vaccine records along entire border Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) has apprehended 139 suspected fraudulent Covid-19 tests and six suspected fake Covid-19 vaccine credentials at ports of entry along the U.S./Canada border during the pandemic, CBSA spokesperson Louis-Carl Brissette Lesage said in an email to The Northern Light. As of September 17, of the suspected fake Covid-19 tests, 103 were found during attempted land crossings and 36 were found when people attempted to fly into Canada, Brissette Lesage said. CBSA declined to break down the ports of entry where the fake
Wednesday, October 6 9:00am – Arts Commission Meeting
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Covid-19 documents. After CBSA apprehends the documents, Public Health Agency of Canada and/or the police determine if penalty action would be enforced. Under Canada’s Quarantine Act, someone who provides fake Covid-19 vaccination records can face up to $750,000 in fines, six months in prison or both; or prosecution under Canada’s criminal code for forgery. People who aren’t Canadian citizens can be banned from entering Canada and/or banned from returning.
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The Northern Light • September 23 - 29, 2021
Letter ... From page 1
community members via email who support the mask mandates. Two weeks before the start of the 2021-22 school year governor Jay Inslee issued a mandate requiring all state educators and support staff to be fully vaccinated and required staff and students, regardless of vaccination status, to wear a mask in public indoor settings. Following the mandates, 15 parents spoke at the August 23 meeting as a crowd of about 50 parents and community members assembled outside of the Blaine High School cafeteria to protest the mandates. Before the meeting began, board president Charles Gibson addressed the crowd. “We want to be able to communicate your concerns to those who can do something about this,” he said. “We are elected officials; we have certain limitations we have to adhere to. We cannot change the law.” Gibson added if the board and administration do not comply with the governor’s orders, the district would lose funding.
Ryan Swinburnson of Swin Law LLC, who graduated from Blaine High School, told board members during the public comment period that while they may not be able to disobey the mandates, there are other things they could do to address the concerns of parents who want their children back in the classroom without masks. He said the board could ask representatives from the health department, superintendent’s office and governor’s office to attend the meetings to explain the necessity and impact the use of masks will have; could work with other school districts to push back on the governor’s mandates and have him release his emergency powers; and have an extra meeting a month dedicated as a work session to work on these issues. “That’s what you should be doing, putting pressure on the elected officials above you,” Swinburnson said. “You are the elected officials, so we are here putting pressure on you since you were elected.” More than a handful of speakers told the board they were pulling their children out of Blaine schools, while others who
s Fifteen people spoke against governor Jay Inslee’s mask and vaccination mandates at the Blaine school board’s August 23 meeting. About 50 people, mostly opposed to the mandates, attended. Photo by Ian Haupt spoke said they were already home-schooling their kids. Blaine school district superintendent Christopher Granger said in response to the school board’s
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said the mandates are out of the school board’s control and that the letter was “attempting to model where those concerns should be voiced.”
Blaine superintendent worried about returning to remote learning
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letter that he thought the board saw it necessary to relay the concerns of its constituents to the appropriate elected officials who have a voice at the state level. He
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students and staff to stay home when sick in order to slow transmission and limit close contact with others. “We are growing concerned and feel on the brink on whether we can continue to operate long term due to the sheer volume of symptomatic students and staff across the district,” he wrote. Last week, according to the district’s Covid-19 dashboard, the district had 29 positive cases. During the two preceding weeks, the district had six cases each. Granger said if cases continue to increase as they are in the community, the district could struggle to staff buildings and departments. The district has been moving staff around as needed but if case rates continue to increase it may have to resort to hybrid or remote learning for a short period of time, he said. Although Covid-19 cases remain high in the county compared to other times during the pandemic, the most recent Washington State Department of Health data shows case rates are decreasing in all school district areas. This decision would be made with the guidance of the Whatcom County health department, he said. “It all depends on the situation we’re in at the time.” Two of last week’s cases were in the primary school, eight in the elementary school, four in middle and 15 were in the high school. Only in the high school was a cohort of students required to quarantine. Last week, the football team had to cancel its game because of positive cases and players who were exposed needing to quarantine.
In the message, Granger asked for the community’s help to stay home if sick. “But it’s just a cold or allergies you say? Did you know that many Delta variant cases of Covid-19 are starting out with typical cold or allergy-like symptoms? Please, don’t treat this like it’s ‘just a runny nose,’” Granger said. “Right now, with the wave of this current variant, that is one of the most common symptoms. Every staff member and student with any one of the Covid-19 symptoms should stay home.” Granger went on to say that people should also remember that there are families in the district whose children are seriously ill, and they are not frustrated or inconvenienced but frightened. “Being the target of the frustrations of many comes with the job of being superintendent,” Granger wrote. “I can bear that, because I know I am making the best decisions I can, with the information I have, and within the constraints of the guidance and mandates that have been issued, while keeping our students’ safety and education at the forefront. I care deeply about each and every one of our students and staff and their families, and I want us all to still be here when we get to the other side of this.”
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September 23 - 29, 2021 • thenorthernlight.com
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Sports Girls soccer comeback to beat Oak Harbor in 2-1 victory By Ian Haupt The Lady Borderites notched another win Tuesday in their undefeated record this season with four games played. With goals from Bries Nolasco and Paige Linhares and a strong midfield duo of Gabi Blanco and Kristina Robi dictating possession, Blaine came from behind to beat Oak Harbor 2-1 September 21. The Borderites started the game strong with some crisp passing through midfield. Many early chances came through Nolasco but Oak Harbor’s keeper matched her. The Wildcats would strike first. Playing a 4-4-2 system, a striker dropped into midfield to find the ball and put it over the top of the Borderites defense for the other to run onto. With pace and strength, the Wildcat forward was clear in on the goal and slotted it past goalkeeper Larissa Pluschakov. Having most of the ball and chances in the first half, the Borderites and their home fans were stunned. But it wouldn’t take long for the girls to equalize. Nolasco’s speed and close dribbling would prove too much for Oak Harbor’s strong defensive line. Close to the end of the first half, she broke in on goal from the left. Letting the ball come across her, Nolasco toe-poked it into the side netting, raising the spirits of the home crowd. While Nolasco created the majority of chances for the Borderites throughout the game, head coach Gio Quesada said he’s all about teamwork. “This team really works like a team,” he said. “Sometimes you have a star player but I’m pro-team.” Starting the second half, the Borderites continued to build from the back, while the Wildcats tried to play on the counter, continuing to knock the ball for their striker to run onto. With the Oak Harbor goal-
s Blaine forward Bries Nolasco, l., caused problems for the Wildcats’ defense at the September 21 game. keeper going off injured midway through the second half, the Borderites were able to capitalize on a less experienced player between the sticks. Throwing the ball back to the Borderites, she forced her team to concede a long-range free kick. Paige Linhares stepped up for the Borderites and sailed it over the substitute keeper, putting Blaine in the lead for the first time in the night. And with under 10 minutes left in the game, the goal was enough to secure the Borderites fourth win of the season. “I couldn’t ask for more,” Quesada said. “The passing was great through the whole team, from the defenders to the midfield and to the forwards.” Quesada said while the team is currently undefeated, the goal for
the rest of the season is to keep working and be a success. “I think building the players a little by little is more important than winning,” he said. “It was a great win last night but there were a few mistakes that we can work on.”
Sports roundup
Football Due to a positive Covid-19 case in the ranks, a group of the boys
have been forced to quarantine through this week. Their game last week was cancelled and their game in South Whidbey this week has been cancelled again. The team will hopefully return healthy in time to play rival Lynden Christian at home Friday, October 1. The Borderites are undefeated so far this season. Volleyball The volleyball team is 2-2 this
Photo by Ian Haupt
season with a loss at home to Oak Harbor Monday, September 20. The Lady Borderites beat Mount Vernon on the road four sets September 16 for their first away win of the season. They then returned home to face the Wildcats to lose in three straight sets. The team will host Ferndale on Thursday, September 23 and then will travel to Squalicum Tuesday, September 28. Both matches start at 7 p.m.
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s About 50 fans cheered on girls soccer at the Blaine High School field grand stand and saw the Borderites beat Oak Harbor 2-1 Tuesday night. Photo by Ian Haupt
8
The Northern Light • September 23 - 29, 2021
Ferndale artist brings Blaine maritime history to life
s Ferndale artist James Williamson depicts historic Blaine maritime history through his work, from the old Alaska Packers Association cannery on Semiahmoo Spit (above) to the Semiahmoo lighthouse. Courtesy image
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Ferndale resident James Williamson didn’t intend to be an artist, but he’s made a name for himself with maritime art for the last 50 years. Originally from Pittsburgh, Williamson, 71, made his way to the Pacific Northwest when he joined the U.S. Air Force and would stop at Whidbey Island. After he finished his service, he studied fine art and graphic art at Northern Michigan University and Western Washington University. “It just happened,” Williamson said of his career in maritime art. “A lot of life depends on this mysterious finger of fate that moves you around. Even though I was in the air force, most places I was stationed were near the water, like Cape Cod. I just had this inclination to paint ships.” Williamson found an audience for his art in Whatcom County, where he said people were interested in maritime and the history behind it. He began creating art of notable vessels like the replica
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Lady Washington tall ship, which Williamson first painted in 1990. In 1989, the Grays Harbor Historical Seaport commissioned Lady Washington to be built as a replica of the original 18th century ship in Aberdeen, according to the seaport’s website. Williamson first saw Lady Washington in Aberdeen and has since recreated the ship six times, which sails along the Pacific coast and visits Blaine most summers. In addition to historical vessels, Williamson also paints Pacific Northwest landscapes, wildlife and commissioned pieces of industrial vessels like oil tankers. The old Semiahmoo Harbor Lighthouse, Alaska Packers Association cannery and vessels docked at Blaine Harbor are a few local features Williamson has painted. Williamson works in multiple mediums, from pencils and ink to watercolor and oil paints. Because each medium is so different, which medium he uses depends on a number of factors. “It depends on what I eat the day before or whatever’s going on
in my mind,” Williamson said. “It depends on the subject.” Certain subjects look better in different mediums, Williamson explained. Herons, for example, which he plans to paint next, look good in watercolor, so he’ll paint them with watercolor paints. An artwork’s dimensions are also a factor. Williamson will often paint commissioned pieces of oil tankers and tugboats in watercolor, which requires a 22-by30-inch paper. Larger paintings, like the historical ships Williamson paints, are often done with oil paints because they can expand to a larger size, he said, though some of his maritime history paintings are watercolors. Many of Williamson’s paintings are an exercise in patience, depending on the complexity and size. His commissioned work also entails research and sketches before painting. “The whole time for a painting, where the paper is 22 by 30 inches, takes about three weeks. It’s complex,” Williamson said. “Doing a painting of a heron could take a couple days.” Williamson creates the majority of his work in his home studio in Ferndale, where he paints his industrial ships and wildlife alike. “It’s amazing to see the delicacy of wildlife and the landscape and the overwhelming power of industry these days,” Williamson said. “The ships are so huge. You can go down to Bellingham right now, look out on the bay, and there are container vessels sitting there. They’re very big.” Williamson’s art is displayed and sold at the Semiahmoo Marina general store. His work can be viewed and purchased online at bit.ly/37CCvWV.
September 23 - 29, 2021 • thenorthernlight.com
Rick Steves brings the joy of travel to Blaine Travel writer and T.V. personality Rick Steves highlights Blaine in the second video of a three-video series where he explores Whatcom County. In the four-minute episode, titled “Extremely Northwest,” Steves meets with Laurie Trautman, director of Western Washington University’s Border Policy Research Institute (BPRI) at Peace Arch State Park; visits Drayton Harbor Oyster Company’s oyster farm, and meets with Blaine harbormaster Andy Peterson at the Blaine Marina. Clips of The Railway Cafe, Semiahmoo Spit and downtown Blaine are also included in the four-minute episode released September 20.
The first episode featured craft brews in Whatcom County and the final episode, to be released in upcoming weeks, will focus on the county’s arts and culture. The episodes were filmed when Steves visited Whatcom County in late May. Steves, who lives in Edmonds, showcased his home state to support local travel during the pandemic. With creative direction from Seattle Times Content Studio, Steves and Visit Bellingham/ Whatcom County, Seattle-based All is Well Studios produced the three-part series. To watch the series, visit bellingham.org/ricksteves.
s Rick Steves, r., and BPRI director Laurie Trautman filming at Peace Arch State Park. Photos courtesy Visit Bellingham/Whatcom County
s Rick Steves, c., at Drayton Harbor Oyster Company’s oyster farm.
s Rick Steves, l., features BPRI director Laurie Trautman, along with other county residents in the episode “Extremely Northwest.”
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10
Pets & Pet Care
The Northern Light • September 23 - 29, 2021
Best Photo Clips, Tips and products for a healthier, happier pet!
Birch Bay groomer receives international cat care award
Pet Paparazzi features Blaine pets
By Grace McCarthy International Professional Groomers Inc. (IPG) recently awarded Canine Divine Spa’s Kari Conners for cat grooming skills at the Birch Bay groomers. “I enjoy working with each individual personality and discovering the best way to handle each animal,” Conners said. To earn certification, Conners completed a 100-question written test that covered handling and safety procedures, and filmed herself bathing a cat, doing its nails, blow drying it and brushing it out. Conners said she studied for a month before taking the certification test, as well as leaned into her 20 years of experience working with animals. She’s worked at Canine Divine Spa for five years and previously owned a boarding kennel in Bend, Oregon, which she ran for 14 years. “Kari is the most compassionate, caring individual I have ever met and that love and compassion naturally extends to each pet in her care,” Canine Divine Spa owner Tammy Wojcik said. “She is calm and comforting. Her skill as a groomer is above standards as she works hard to always improve. She listens to the needs of pet parents but also for what the pets’ needs are. She stands
s Kari Conners. out because she is the complete package: Smart, caring, compassionate, skilled but also humble and teachable.” As of September 20, Conners is also now certified in grooming sporting dog breeds – which include spaniels, pointers, retrievers and setters – and terrier breeds. The National Dog Groomers Association of America awarded Conners with the certification after she attended a workshop in Bonney Lake, Washington. In February, IPG awarded Conners the International Certified Master Groomer award for dogs after she passed written exams and demonstrated her grooming ability. Canine Divine Spa is located at 4855 Goldstar Drive in Birch Bay. For more information, call 360/392-8465. s Bryn and her baby girl, Benelli.
Photo courtesy Tami Mikkelson
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s Squirt, bottom, is 17 years old and Shasta, top, is 15 years old. Michelle Malouf has cared for her elderly, handicapped birds since they were eggs. Photo courtesy Michelle Malouf
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September 23 - 29, 2021 • thenorthernlight.com
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Legal IN THE SUPERIOR COURT OF THE STATE OF WASHINGTON IN AND FOR THE COUNTY OF Whatcom In Re the Estate of Vernon R. Greenstreet, Deceased. NO. 21-4-00722-37. PROBATE NOTICE TO CREDITORS (RCW 11.40.030). JUDGE: Lee Grochmal The personal representative named below has been appointed as personal representative of this estate. Any person having 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 as provided in RCW 11.40.070 by serving on or mailing to the personal representative or the personal representative’s attorney at the address stated below a copy of the claim and filing the original of the claim with the court in which the probate proceedings were commenced. The claim must be presented within the later of: (1) Thirty days after the personal representative served or mailed the notice to the creditor as provided under RCW 11.40.020(1)(c); or (2) four months after the date of first publication of the notice. If the claim is not presented within this time frame, the claim is forever barred, except as otherwise provided in RCW 11.40.051 and 11.40.060. This bar is effective as to claims against both the decedent’s probate and nonprobate assets. Date of First Publication: September 16, 2021 Personal Representative: John Greenstreet 104 Augusta Drive Mount Juliet, TN 37122 Attorney for the Personal Representative: Katti Esp 301 Prospect Street Bellingham, WA 98225 Address for Mailing or Service: Katti Esp 301 Prospect Street Bellingham, WA 98225 Court of Probate Proceedings Superior Court of Whatcom County and Cause Number: Cause No. 21-4-00722-37
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IN THE SUPERIOR COURT OF THE STATE OF WASHINGTON IN AND FOR WHATCOM COUNTY In re the Estate of: DAVID ARTHUR HULL, Deceased. No. 214-00762-37. NOTICE TO CREDITORS. Judge Robert E. Olson The Administrator named below has been appointed and has qualified as Administrator of this estate. Any person having 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 as provided in RCW 11.40.070 by serving on or mailing to the Administrator or the Administrator’s attorney at the address stated below a copy of the claim and filing the original of the claim with the court in which the probated proceedings were commenced. The claim must be presented within the later of: (1) thirty days after the Administrator served or mailed the notice to the creditor as provided under RCW 11.40.020(1)(c); or (2) four months after the date of first publication of the notice. If the claim is not presented within this time frame, the claim is forever barred, except as otherwise provided in RCW 11.40.051 AND 11.40.060. This bar is effective as to claims against both the decedent’s probate and nonprobate assets. Date of Filing of Notice to Creditors September 15, 2021 with Clerk of Court: Date of First Publication: September 22, 2021 Name of Administrator: CINDY MAXWELL Attorney for Administrators: Steven D. Avery, WSBA #35262 Address for Mailing or Service: Avery Elder Law, P.S. 801 Samish Way, Ste. 202 Bellingham WA 98229 Telephone: (360) 325-2550 Email: steve@averyelderlaw.com DATED: September 15, 2021 AVERY ELDER LAW, P.S. STEVEN D. AVERY, WSBA #35262 Attorney for Administrator CINDY MAXWELL (360) 325-2550 www.averyelderlaw.com
IN THE SUPERIOR COURT OF THE STATE OF WASHINGTON IN AND FOR THE COUNTY OF WHATCOM In the matter of the Estate of FRED PAUL HOLTON, Deceased. No. 21-4-0073637 PROBATE NOTICE TO CREDITORS (RCW 11.40.030) The Personal Representative named below has been appointed as Personal Representative of the above estate. Any person having a claim against the deceased FRED PAUL HOLTON must, before the time the claim would be barred by any otherwise applicable statute of limitations, present the claim in the manner provided by RCW 11.40.070 by serving on or mailing to the Personal Representative or the Personal Representative’s Attorney at the address stated below, a copy of the claim, and filing the original of the claim with the Court in which the probated proceedings have commenced. The claim must be presented within the later of: (1) thirty days after the Personal Representative mailed the notice to the creditor as provided under RCW 11.40.020 (1) (c); or (2) four months after the date of first publication of this notice. If the claim is not presented within this time frame, the claim will be forever barred except as otherwise provided in RCW 11.40.051 or 11.40.060. This bar is effective as to claims against both the probate and nonprobate assets of the Decedent. DATE OF FILING NOTICE TO CREDITORS WITH THE CLERK OF THE COURT: September 3, 2021 DATE OF FIRST PUBLICATION: September 9, 2021 PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE: ELEANOR HOLTON ATTORNEY FOR PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE: Mark W. Stowe, WSBA #16655 ADDRESS FOR MAILING OR SERVICE: Stowe Law PLLC, 276 Boundary Bay Rd, P.O. Box 129, Point Roberts, WA 98281 Phone: (360) 945-0337 Email: stowelawpllc@outlook.com DATED this 3rd day of September 2021. STOWE LAW PLLC: Mark W. Stowe, WSBA# 16655, Attorney for Personal Representative
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IN THE SUPERIOR COURT FOR THE STATE OF WASHINGTON, KING COUNTY Estate of PATRICIA DOLORES ANING SHIRAS, deceased. Case No. 21-4-06011-4SEA. NOTICE TO CREDITORS (RCW 11.40.030) THE PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE named below has been appointed as Personal Representative of this estate. Any persons having 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 as provided in RCW 11.40.070 by serving on or mailing to the personal representative or the personal representative’s attorney at the address stated below a copy of the claim, and filing the original of the claim with the Court in which the probate proceedings were commenced. The claim must be presented within the later of: (1) Thirty days after the personal representative served or mailed the notice to the creditor as provided under RCW 11.40.020(1) (c); or (2) four months after the date of first publication of the notice. If the claim is not presented within this time frame, the claim will be forever barred, except as otherwise provided in RCW 11.40.051 and 11.40.060. This bar is effective as to claims against both the decedent’s probate and non-probate assets. DATE OF FIRST PUBLICATION: September 16, 2021 PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE: Robert Swift Shiras ADDRESS FOR MAILING OR SERVICE Heather S. de Vrieze, WSBA#28553 de VRIEZE | CARNEY, PLLC 3909 California Avenue SW #101 Seattle, WA 98116-3705 COURT OF PROBATE PROCEEDINGS: King County Superior Court CAUSE NUMBER: 21-4-06011-4SEA PHONE: (206)938-5500 WWW.WESTSEATTLELAW.COM
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The Northern Light • September 23 - 29, 2021
Real Estate
Bay Properties Semiahmoo homeS, inc.
NW LUXURY REAL ESTATE AT A HIGHER LEVEL
5835 Semiahmoo Drive, Birch Point $1,050,000
THERIDGEATSEMIAHMOO.COM
8446 Moonlight Way, Birch Bay $275,000
11.33 ACRE ESTATE PROPERTY WITH A VIEW!
Rare west facing marine view estate property encompassing 11.33 acres overlooking bays, mountains, & islands, located on Birch Point plateau high above pristine NW waters. Spectacular sunsets. Beautifully forested, relatively level with slight slope eastward to build dream home with elbow room offering privacy & exclusivity. Located hour south of Vancouver, BC & under two hours to Seattle. Natural beauty & environment - a mile from Semiahmoo: Inn, golf course, and a 300 slip marina. The property could potentially be divided - offering two separate estate size properties. Choices, choices!
MINUTES TO THE BEACH!
Ideal Birch Bay get away or full time residence. Immaculately maintained inside and out, this 2 BD 1.75 BA 1176 SF doublewide MF home with spacious covered entertainment deck facing south to the water, offers tranquility and true Pacific Northwest living. Private back yard and garden plus a detached garage with ample storage. Just minutes to the beach!
NEW LISTING IN LINCOLN GREEN!
Terry Conway • (360) 410-0503
CeCelia Breivik • (360) 303-8161
7806 Birch Bay Drive #103, Birch Bay $500,000
SOLD $500,000!! SOLD $500,000!! Fabulous Garden Unit fully renovated with views of the Bay! Located at Jacob’s Landing in heart of Birch Bay, condo offers unobstructed views of water & magical sunsets. 880 SF 2 BD, 1 BA updated unit include granite countertops, stainless steel appliances, new floors, kitchen cabinets and much more. Newer water heater installed. Come & enjoy all Birch Bay has to offer: clamming, crabbing, kayaking & beach walks. Jacob’s Landing amenities include clubhouse with indoor heated pool, hot tub, racquet ball & tennis courts, games room. This unit comes partially furnished.
Ruth Skeete • (360) 358-5075
8045 BIRCH BAY DRIVE, BLAINE, WA 360-371-7252 BAYPROPERTIESNW.COM
YOUR OWN PRIVATE DOCK!
4109 Matia Drive, Ferndale $1,399,000
THIS IS A SHOW STOPPER!
Come live where your backyard is the sea and your boat is just steps away from adventure! Very unique design, starting with designer showcase garage for the collector and catwalk that leads to home. Expansive views facing to San Juan Islands & Lummi. Top floor offers primary suite with huge deck, wet bar, fireplace, bath & second bed/flex room. Second floor made for entertaining & gazing at scenery. First floor with living room includes Murphy bed, wood stove & MORE views. Step outside to massive patio to smell salt air as you jump on your boat! Truly a remarkable location with easy access in/out of Sandy Point.
8067 Chinook Way, Birch Bay Village $1,190,000
8153 Harborview Road, Birch Bay $357,000
UPDATED AND FULLY MINUTES TO THE REMODELED! This 600 SF 2 BD, 1 BA cottage BEACH! is within two blocks of the beach. Large partially fenced yard to host those summer BBQ’s with friends and family! With ample sunlight and recent remodel this is the perfect home for the first time buyer, someone looking to downsize or as a recreational get away. Bring your beach buckets and come enjoy all that Birch Bay has to offer: beachcombing, crabbing, clamming, swimming, restaurants and strolls along the recently completed Birch Bay Berm and Pedestrian Walkway.
Julie Ward • (760) 522-2564
IDER ! ONSOFFER C L WILCK-UP BA
7542 Birch Bay Dr., Birch Bay • $359,900 MLS # 1835520 • 2 beds, 1 bath • 530 sq. ft.
Build your waterfront dream home on this one of a kind, 37,336 sq ft. homesite hugging 215 feet of peaceful, pebbly Semiahmoo shore of Drayton Harbor.
Sunlight sparkles on gentle saltwater. Sea breezes carry the call of Eagles, Great Blue Herons and countless migratory shore birds. Ancient evergreens stand sentinel along the property perimeter. Snow-capped mountains, night lights of Blaine & White Rock BC. Welcoming neighbors & stately homes custom designed in concert w/Semiahmoo CCR’s.
!
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Location, Location. Waterfront on Terrell Creek and across from the bay. Secure your precious piece of
Birch Bay, with this mostly turnkey cottage. Wake up and enjoy the morning sun. Sun exposure is one of the prime features this property offers. Close to the State Park and all Birch Bay amenities. Enjoy the new Birch Bay Berm project just completed and community park coming soon! Backyard is a special place. Low maintenance with lots of parking, enjoy.
Location, Location!
360.815.6638
briansouthwick@gmail.com
see more pictures at www.briansouthwick.com
Rentals - Apartment
All real estate/rentals advertising in this newspaper is subject to the Federal Fair Housing Act of 1968 as amended, which makes it illegal to advertise any preference, limitation or discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, handicap, familial status or national origin, or an intention to make any such preference, limitation or discrimination. This newspaper will not knowingly accept any advertisement for real estate which is in violation of the law. Our readers are hereby informed that all dwellings advertised in this newspaper are available on an equal opportunity basis. To complain of discrimination, call HUD toll-free at 1-800-877-0246.
Rentals - Rooms FURNISHED ROOMS in historic home, incl. amenities, NS, pet friendly starts at $600/ mo. + deposit, references required. 360-332-3449.
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8655 Valley View Rd.
3BR, 2-full -BA, Ductless heat pump. LR opens to large kitchen & eating area w/ new cabinets & floors. Home offers lots of nice upgrades!
$400,000
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8361 Beach La Mar Dr.
3BR 2BA, 1,680 s.f. Manufactured home, new roof, new hot water heater, new vinyl siding, new vinyl windows
$369,000
Call Hugh : 360.371.5800 Your Local Expert For All Real Estate, Residential Or Commercial Services! Hugh Brawford, Managing Broker
Carl W. R. Dufton • (360) 815-6637
Heather Taylor • (425) 785-5771
5366 Night Heron Dr., Blaine • $525,000 MLS # 1664909 • 0.86 Acre Lot
RARE GEM IN BIRCH BAY VILLAGE!
BIRCH BAY VILLAGE!
Custom built in 2006 with almost 4,000 SF of living space. Panoramic views from open floor plan includes library/office, vaulted ceilings, hardwoods & tile throughout, custom cabinetry built in great room plus wrap around deck for indoor/outdoor living. Kitchen is perfect for entertaining with dual fridge, wet bar, solid granite slab & storage. Dining space and oversized covered deck for year round enjoyment. Lower level has 2 guest rooms and 3rd oversized room or bonus. Third full bath includes a sauna! Unique feature is 3rd car garage, extra parking slab & optional front door entry. Mountain & Bay views.
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Rentals - Commercial
Newly Available!
Rentals - Commercial
NELSON BUILDING 925 Ludwick Ave., Blaine
LEASE SPACES FOR:
Warehousing-Distribution Manufacturing or Retail Vehicle Storage Yards Near Truck Route & Shopping Mall
Email or Call Don Nelson For Availability & Rates
Call: 360-305-0286 Email nelsbldg@msn.com
ROOMS WITH A VIEW ! Waterfront 3BR, 2BA penthouse apartment overlooking Blaine Harbor & Marine Park. Master ensuite with jacuzzi bath. 1200 s.f. w/large decks off every room. Full kitchen, w/granite countertops. W/D, fiber optic internet available. Panoramic views of Mt. Baker, downtown Blaine, marina, Semiahmoo, San Juan Islands, Point Roberts, Peace Arch, White Rock and North Shore mountains. Walking distance to downtown Blaine.
Call Pat Grubb at 360-332-1777 or email pgrubb@mac.com
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380 s.f. 2nd floor office space in The Northern Light Cannery-style building on Blaine Harbor. Views of marina. Fiber optic internet. Utilities included. For leasing info, contact Pat Grubb at 360/332-1777 or email pgrubb@mac.com
September 23 - 29, 2021 • thenorthernlight.com
Road Rules: Is short-stopping at a four-way intersection allowed? ing the intersection first, goes first (after coming to a complete stop).” This is supported by the law that requires drivers to yield to vehicles already in the intersection or approaching so closely as to constitute a hazard. The Driver Guide continues, “If more than one vehicle arrives at the same time, the vehicle on the right goes first.” This part parallels the law that states, “When two vehicles approach or enter an intersection from different highways at approximately the same time, the driver of the vehicle on the left shall yield the right-of-way to the vehicle on the right.” I was curious to see both how often short-stopping happens, and if there is any pattern to when it happens or what kind of vehicles do it most. I set up at a moderately busy four-way stop intersection and observed 200 vehicles as they went through. Of those vehicles, 18 stopped short of the stop line, mostly just by a few feet. Only one stopped at what I estimated to be about a car-length back. And many of them stopped short even though there was no potential advantage. (At that moment they were the only vehicle approaching the intersection.) Here’s what I found most interesting: 17 of the 18 vehicles were
By Doug Dahl Question: I sometimes see drivers at four-way stop intersections short-stopping (coming to a stop well before the stop line). It seems to me like a jerk move; they do it so that they stop before the rest of the drivers because whoever stops first is the next to go through the intersection. Is that legal? Answer: I wasn’t familiar with the term “short-stopping” prior to this question, so of course, I Googled it. I learned that along with your definition, it refers to a kind of telecom fraud as well as when a drug dealer infringes on another dealer’s territory. Who knew? I also discovered that lots of people (at least on the internet) are as irritated by it as you are. I’m speaking of short-stopping at an intersection, not the other two kinds. I, too, have seen it on occasion, but I have a different hypothesis for why it happens. Before we get to motivations though, let’s take a look at the law. The idea that whoever stops first gets to go first isn’t actually stated in the law, but it’s a fairly reasonable interpretation and very similar to the Washington Driver Guide, which reads, “At a four-way stop the driver reach-
pickups or SUVs. And here’s my hypothesis: On tall vehicles with long hoods, drivers lose sight of the stop line earlier, so they stop sooner. But is it legal to short-stop? The law requires, in part, that drivers stop “at a clearly marked stop line.” If we want to get particular, the Driver Guide instructs drivers not to stop in travel lanes. Does stopping a car-length before a stop line constitute stopping in a travel lane? Maybe it doesn’t matter. I can’t prove the motivations of short-stoppers, but even if they do it to be first (and this might be controversial), so what? It costs you five seconds and possibly a little confusion. Yes, when drivers follow the law and drive predictably, things flow better and we’re all safer. We should all strive to be that kind of driver. But if you encounter a driver who fails, either by error or intention, to live up to those standards, it’s an opportunity to execute one of the hardest driving maneuvers out there: stay cool, shake it off, and do whatever makes the roadway safest in that moment. Doug Dahl is a manager with the Washington Traffic Safety Commission, Region 11 and publishes TheWiseDrive.com.
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O B I T U A RY Laurie Dawn Pike
May 9, 1961 - September 17, 2021 Laurie Dawn Pike peacefully went home to be with her Lord, surrounded by her loving family on Friday, September 17, 2021 at the age of 60. She was born on May 9th, 1961 to Eugene and Mary Stainer. She was the delightful little sister of 3 older siblings, Steve, Dave and Kathi. She leaves behind her 3 beloved children and their spouses, Rachell and Mike Barksdale, Ryan and Linsey Pike, Jennifer and Ted Harding and her 7 wonderful grandchildren, Hailey, Tyson, Brielle, Jackson, Kennzlie, Charlee and Bentley, who were the delight of her life. For the last 20 years, Laurie valiantly, often quietly, struggled with the debilitating effect of autoimmune diseases. Her faith in God was evident in her life. She positively impacted everyone she came into contact with. She will be greatly missed! A celebration of her life will be held at Whatcom New Life Assembly in Ferndale, WA on Saturday, October 2nd at 1:00pm. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to an orphanage Laurie sponsored, noahministries.org
CE L EB R AT ION OF L IFE Dan Padilla
April 15, 1972 - July 30, 2021 Dan was many things to many people in the Blaine community. He was a musician, a volunteer coach, a scouting cubmaster, a school paraeducator. Most importantly, Dan was a good friend whose genuine kindness left an indelible imprint on the lives of everyone he came into contact with. Please join the Padilla family for a special gathering to celebrate Dan's life and the impact he left on each of us and on our community. Sunday, September 26, at 2 p.m., Ferndale Events Center, 5715 Barrett Road, Ferndale, WA 98248.
Chamber hosts social Utilities ... event for local businesses
BUSINESS & PROFESSIONAL
From page 1
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2022, offer payment plans up to 18 months and notify WUTC before disconnecting services. Although WUTC does not control public utilities, the commission encourages them to contact past-due customers, help with assistance, offer at least 12-month payment plans and to not report overdue customers to credit bureaus for at least six months.
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s Tim Woodard, president of the Blaine Chamber of Commerce with Alan Finston of The Vault Wine Bar & Bistro at the chamber’s After Hours social event on September 8. Photo by Louise Mugar
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442 PEACE PORTAL DRIVE • 360-332-4346
OPEN LUNCH/DINNER TUESDAY-SUNDAY 11:30am-8:30pm
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360-392-0955
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The Northern Light • September 23 - 29, 2021
Sheriff’s Reports Sep. 11, 6:09 a.m.: Mental on Surf Place. Sep. 11, 9:24 a.m.: Fraud on Dean Drive, Custer. Sep. 11, 11:26 a.m.: Suspicious circumstances on White and Giles roads. Sep. 11, 2:06 p.m.: Civil problem on Blaine Road. Sep. 11, 2:55 p.m.: Trespass on Blaine Road. Sep. 11, 5:12 p.m.: Assault simple on Bridger and Crocket roads. Sep. 11, 5:17 p.m.: Theft on Birch Bay Square Street. Sep. 12, 8:04 a.m.: Civil standby on Harborview Road. Sep. 12, 12:29 p.m.: Mental on Surf Place. Sep. 13, 11:07 a.m.: Sex crime no rape on Delta Line Road, Custer. Sep. 13, 11:15 a.m.: Theft on Blaine Road. Sep. 13, 2:32 p.m.: Traffic hazard on Birch Bay-Lynden and Kickerville roads. Sep. 13, 2:38 p.m.: Theft on Blaine and Legion roads. Sep. 13, 5:20 p.m.: Sex crime no rape on Anderson Road. Sep. 13, 10:32 p.m.: Neighborhood dispute on Holeman Avenue. Sep. 13, 10:48 p.m.: DUI on Grandview Road. Sep. 15, 2:57 a.m.: Music on Harborview Road.
Sep. 15, 8:10 a.m.: Theft on Birch Bay Square Street. Sep. 15, 12:41 p.m.: Missing person on Iverson Lane, Custer. Sep. 15, 5:23 p.m.: Sex crime no rape on Helweg Road. Sep. 15, 6:24 p.m.: Domestic order violence on Harborview Road. Sep. 15, 8:20 p.m.: Missing person on Birch Bay Drive. Sep. 16, 12:45 a.m.: Music on Harborview Road. Sep. 16, 12:29 p.m.: Domestic verbal on Birch Bay Drive.
Sep. 11, 1:31 a.m.: Assist other agency on D Street. Sep. 11, 2:17 p.m.: Verbal domestic dispute on D Street. Sep. 11, 7:23 p.m.: Request for trespass on Peace Portal Drive. Sep. 11, 11 p.m.: Malicious mischief on 3rd Street. Sep. 12, 12:19 a.m.: Court order violation on C Street. Sep. 12, 2:01 p.m.: Theft of a bicycle on F Street. Sep. 12, 3:12 p.m.: Suicidal threats on Lexington Avenue. Sep. 12, 3:56 p.m.: Hit and run with property damage on Bell Road. Sep. 12, 5:24 p.m.: Assist citizen on H Street. Sep. 13, 12:45 a.m.: Theft on F
clean 50. Able to be rescued 54. Large, open grassland 55. Expressions for humorous effect 56. Hindu goddess 57. Beverage container 59. Long narrow hilltop 60. Sir (abbr.) 61. Data executive 62. Doctor of Education 63. Car mechanics group 64. Autonomic nervous system 65. “The Partridge Family” actress DOWN 1. Cavalry-sword 2. Gland above the kidneys 3. Hat 4. Predict 5. A team’s best pitcher 6. Countries 7. Substitutions 8. Peruses again
9. Popular food 13. Reciprocal of a sine 14. Of or relating to the ears 17. __ juris: Independent 18. Keyboard key 20. Fat from a pig 22. AC manufacturer 27. Organization of N. and S. American countries 28. 22nd star of a constellation 29. Scoundrel 31. A way to save money 32. Boy or young man 33. Midway between northeast and east 37. Egg-laying mammal 38. Salt of citric acid 39. Barbary sheep 40. Actress __ de Mornay 41. Gambling hotspots 42. Wing-shaped 43. Basked in 44. Poison 47. Beats per minute
Street. Sep. 13, 7 a.m.: Trespassing on Pine Siskin Road. Sep. 13, 3:52 p.m.: Brandishing, first degree assault on 4th Street. Sep. 13, 11:14 p.m.: Trespass authorization letter on F Street. Sep. 14, 7:24 p.m.: Threats complaint on Marine Drive. Sep. 14, 12 p.m.: Death investigation on Peace Portal Drive. Sep. 15, 4:58 p.m.: Civil case on D Street. Sep. 15, 7:20 p.m.: Animal problem on Peace Portal Drive. Sep. 12, 8:43 p.m.: Trespass complaint on Peace Portal Drive. Sep. 16, 7:39 p.m.: Suspicious circumstances on H Street. Report by Blaine Police Department.
48. Macaws 49. Military vehicles 51. Elderly woman 52. Body part 53. Midway between east and southeast 58. Forearm nerve (abbr.) ANSWERS: THENORTHERNLIGHT.COM
Tides 49° 0’ 0”N - 122° 46’ 0”W TIME
HEIGHT
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HEIGHT
Fr 24 2:10 am 1.6
8:38 am 8
2:13 pm 4.2
7:57 pm 8.3
Sa 25 2:44 am 1.4
9:34 am 7.9
8:17 pm 8.0
2:53 pm 5.1
Su 26 3:20 am 1.2 10:34 am 7.8
3:37 pm 5.9
8:35 pm 7.7
Mo 27 4:02 am 1.2 11:44 am 7.8
4:31 pm 6.5
8:53 pm 7.5
Tu 28 4:50 am 1.3
1:06 pm 7.9
5:47 pm 6.9
9:09 pm 7.2
We 29 5:46 am 1.3
2:22 pm 8.1
7:47 pm 6.9
9:33 pm 6.9
Th 30 6:48 am 1.2
3:16 pm 8.3
Blaine Middle School Virtual Open House: Thursday, September 23, 6 p.m. Info: blainesd.org. Live Music at The Vault: Friday, September 24, 7 p.m., 277 G Street. Featuring: JP Falcon. Info: thevaultwine.com. Movie Night: Friday, September 24, 7:15 p.m., Birch Bay Activity Center, 7511 Gemini Street. Playing family friendly movies. Bring a blanket or lawn chair and watch the movie on the big screen. Free popcorn. Masks and social distancing required. Info: bbbparkandrec.org.
Stand-up Comedy Night at Station 49: Saturday, September 25, 7 p.m., Station 49, 4620 Birch Bay Lynden Road. Live music from 5–7 p.m. Comedy features Rate Octagon. Info: station49.fun. Creature Features Movie: Sunday, September 26, 7:30 p.m. Semiahmoo Resort pool, 9565 Semiahmoo Parkway. Watch “Creature From Black Lagoon” from the pool on outside movie screen. $15 per person ages 3 and up. includes use of the pool from 6 p.m. Limited passes available, book at semiahmoo.com/spa.php. Birch Bay Library Information Session: Monday, September 27, 7-8 p.m. Whatcom County Library System executive director Christine Perkins will host an online community meeting to share information and to answer questions about the proposed Birch Bay Vogt Community Library. Birch Bay voters will vote November 2 to determine if they will fund the construction of a new library through property taxes. Pre-registration is required at wcls.org/happenings. Whatcom Dream Financial Literacy Class: Tuesdays, September 28–November 2, 6:30–7:30 p.m., CAP Center, 508 G St. Improve your financial management skills and learn techniques to give you a more secure financial future. For info or to register: 360-2960441. Sponsored by the Community Assistance Program. Candidate Meet and Greet: Thursday, September 30, 5–6:30 p.m., Salishan Park, 1275 Blaine Avenue. Meet some candidates running in the current election: Barry Buchanan for Whatcom County Council, Kelly Krieger for Port of Bellingham commissioner, Kerena Higgins for Blaine City Council, and Sukhwant Gill for Blaine City Council. One-on-one conversations, informal speeches, and question and answer. Please wear masks and socially distance. 7th Annual Animal Blessing: Saturday, October 2, 1–2 p.m., Blaine United Church of Christ, 885 4th Street. All animals welcome. Drive thru blessing, enter from 4th Street. Please wear your face masks. Info: 332-6906. National Night Out Safety Parade: Tuesday, October 5, starting at 6 p.m. at the Birch Bay Waterslides. Local first responders drive a parade of their vehicles through Birch Bay. Support them by safely waving and cheering as their drive by with sirens and lights. For a route map, visit: birchbaychamber.com/events. Birch Bay Library Information Session: Wednesday, October 6, 2-3 p.m. Pre-registration is required at wcls.org/happenings.
September 24-30 at Blaine. Not for navigation.
DATE
Downtown Scarecrow Contest: Now through October 15. Local businesses are encouraged to decorate scarecrows and/or window displays. If you don’t have a downtown storefront, one can be provided. Displays must be up by October 15. Sign up and info: info@ blainechamber.com.
Flea Market Day at Blaine’s Market by the Sea: Saturday, September 25, 10 a.m.–2 p.m., G Street Plaza. Info: info@blainechamber.com.
Police Reports
Crossword ACROSS 1. Pouch 4. Cooling device 7. Corporate exec (abbr.) 10. Antidiuretic hormone 11. South American plant 12. Adult female bird 13. Type of snake 15. Soak in water 16. Emerge 19. Church tower 21. Having solidified from lava 23. Eye parts 24. Natural 25. Swiss river 26. Require to live 27. Obstruct 30. Immobile 34. Expression of satisfaction 35. Moved quickly 36. Popular cocktail 41. Dish detergent brand 45. Waxed finish 46. Kyrgyzstan mountain range 47. A place to get
Sep. 16, 4:09 p.m.: Neighborhood dispute on Harborview Road. Sep. 17, 5:27 a.m.: Death investigation on Bay Road. Sep. 17, 10:17 a.m.: Traffic hazard on Bay Road. Sep. 17, 12:44 p.m.: Fraud on Cottonwood Court. Sep. 17, 4:37 p.m.: Civil problem on Twilight Place. Sep. 17, 6:24 p.m.: Motor vehicle accident on Arnie and Kickerville roads.
Coming up
9:23 pm 6.6 11:35 pm 6.6
Weather
Precipitation: During the period of Sep. 13–19, 2.5 inches of precipitation was recorded. The 2021 yearto-date precipitation is 18.6 inches. Temperature: High for the past week was 72°F on Sep. 13 and 18 with a low of 46°F on Sep. 16. Average high was 61°F and average low was 61°F. Courtesy Birch Bay Water & Sewer Dist.
Birch Bay Library Information Session: Saturday. October 9, 2-3 p.m. Pre-registration is required at wcls.org/happenings. Ongoing Blaine Food Bank: 500 C Street. Open Mondays 9 a.m.–noon, Wednesdays 5–7 p.m., and Fridays 9 a.m.–noon. Delivery options available. Info:360/332-6350 or blainefood@hotmail.com. The Bridge Food Distribution Program: Fridays 3:30–5 p.m., The Bridge Community Hope Center, 4815 Alderson Road. Registration required at thebridgehope.com or call 360/366-8763. Volunteers welcome. CAP Clothing Bank: Mondays and Fridays, 9 a.m.–noon and Wednesdays, 5-7 p.m. 508 G Street. The Community Assistance Program clothing bank is now located in the basement of the CAP Center providing free clothing and linens. Donations accepted only during open hours or by special arrangement. Info: blainecap.org or 360/392-8484. The Bridge Clothing Bank Boutique: Open Wednesday–Saturday, 10 a.m.–6 p.m, The Bridge Community Hope Center, 4815 Alderson Road. Donations by appointment, call 360/366-8763. Blaine’s Market by the Sea: Saturdays, 10 a.m.–2 p.m., G Street Plaza. Featuring high quality arts and crafts vendors selling handcrafted merchandise. Info: cjsolomon07@comcast.net. Meals on Wheels: Thursdays 11:30 a.m.–12 p.m., Blaine Senior Center, 763 G Street. Adults 60+ pick up one hot and six frozen meals. Suggested donation $5 per meal or whatever is affordable. First come, first serve basis. Info: 360/332-8040. Toastmasters Virtual Meetings: Tuesdays 6:30–7:45 p.m. Entertaining and educational. Have fun speaking, learn to overcome fears. Info: Call Pete 360/933-1671 or email him at pcorcorran@ gmail.com for the Zoom link. Submissions to Coming Up should be sent to calendar@thenorthernlight.com no later than noon on Monday.
September 23 - 29, 2021 • thenorthernlight.com
15
Q&A: Commissioner of public lands Hilary Franz on Washington’s wildfires, new HB 1168 and more By Ian Haupt As commissioner of public lands, Hilary Franz oversees the Washington State Department of Natural Resources (DNR). Franz developed a wildfire and forest health funding bill that went into effect August 25. The bill will provide $125 million every two years to boost wildfire response, accelerate forest restoration and support community resilience. Franz spoke just before Labor Day weekend – the middle of fire season – while the DNR prepared for what they hoped would not be a repeat of 2020. Seventy percent of the acres burned last year in Washington were from wildfires that started over Labor Day weekend. We’re getting toward the end of Washington’s fire season. How are you feeling? Hilary Franz: First, I would say right now, I’m feeling cautiously optimistic that we will get through the season. While we will have a lot of exhausted firefighters and a lot of overwhelmed communities, with the number of evacuations and the number of fires that were threatening them, we will hopefully have a very safe fire season, even with the daunting number of fires, and how long this fire season has had us go, with no break since July. How has this year compared with past years? This year, we have 640,000 acres already burned and over 1,700 fires. Last year, over 800,000 acres burned in more than 1,600 fires. Our landscape is extremely hot and dry. On both sides of the Cascades, we haven’t had much moisture, the majority of the state is in a drought. Our firefighters have been going since July. We have fortunately been able to keep under 10 acres burned in a majority of the 1,700 fires as a result of our initial attack and amazing work by firefighters. What does your
s A wildfire burning on a hillside in Washington. fire season look like? Well, I mean, my fire season starts in March. Even before March, we are looking out at what the year is going to look like based on weather. Each year, our fire seasons have been getting more significant. In fact, six out of the last seven years have been catastrophic fire seasons, where every year is worse than all the years before. And this year is now worse than last year’s. But we start as early as March identifying what kind of resources we’re going to need. Are we going to need more air resources or any more firefighters? This year, we recognized the drought that our state and most of the western United States was experiencing. We knew fires were going to be prevalent in many other states, and that we needed to take action immediately to have resources under exclusive control. So we spent much of April, May and early June – even while pushing the legislature for more funding – securing more resources, getting those contracts in place for exclusive use of them or having to beg, borrow and steal them from elsewhere, and obviously training our firefighters. When the fire season began in July, most of my work is making
Photo courtesy of Washington state Commissioner of Public Lands’ office
sure that the resources are being prepositioned. Resources are being leveraged, especially air resources. That we are getting on those fires as quickly as possible on initial attack. We don’t have any sort of barriers that are administrative, whether it’s between our federal partners or state partners or local partners. How will your new funding bill, House Bill 1168, impact the state’s response? That will have a significant impact in three ways based on the way I designed the bill. The first is wildfire response. We will have the critical resources we need before fires even start, so we can get on those fires as quickly as possible and contain them. This bill will secure over $70 million for us to have available for wildfire responses. This means we’ll be able to train and hire 100 full time firefighters to add to our over 70 that we have now. Firefighters are key when they are trained and available. It will also increase the number of critical air resources we have. The second is forest health. The reason we have such catastrophic wildfires is forests are dying. In eastern Washington alone we have 2.7 million acres of forests that are dying, leading
to larger fires. We are seeing the similar dying off of forests on the west side of the state. Our forests are capable of fighting fire on their own if they’re healthy, if they’re not weak, if they’re not dead, if they’re not diseased. The problem is they are so sick that all it takes is a spark and where 100 acres might have burned before, we now have 100,000 acres that are burning. And we have that not just in one or two locations, but all throughout the state. The funding from 1168 will enable us to achieve our 20-year forest health plan, helping restore the health of forests; private land forests, state forests, federal forests and tribal forests. With the goal that we can get in there, remove the dead, dying or diseased trees, and enable the healthier trees to get healthy so they can withstand and fight fire on their own. The third thing is community resilience. We have over 2.2 million homes in Washington state at risk of being destroyed by a wildfire. That number’s growing every single day due to Covid-19, and more and more people realizing they can live and work from anywhere. Specifically, Malden last year
s Firefighters in Boyd, Washington watch as a helicopter drops fire retardant on a wildfire on the Columbia River.
was a very big eye opener, an eye opener for myself as well as many people in the state. We have communities with very high risk that can completely be destroyed in just a few hours. In that case, 80 percent of the homes were destroyed. That community wasn’t even in the top 30 most at risk of wildfire in the state. When you walk that community and you saw the destruction, house after house burned to the ground with just the chimney standing. Amongst all that rubble there was a home completely untouched, because they had taken steps to create defensible space around their home. We have the ability to give every homeowner the power to protect his or her home, even as we have a growing wildfire risk. How can the average resident help the state in wildfire response? First and foremost, they can do it starting today. Humans cause 90 percent of our fires. So the first thing people can do is be one less spark out there. Those on the west side of the state, if you’re going east, know how hot and dry and parched that landscape is, and how one spark can lead to a catastrophic fire in just a matter of a few hours. In addition to that, on the west side of the state, we’re seeing more and more fires – 20 percent more than last year. With the majority of the state being in a drought, the landscape on the west side is just as dry and parched and at risk of fire. Please follow the burn ban. No campfires, no debris pile burns. Don’t park on dry grass. Check your chains on your trucks and your car. Make sure if you’re out with an ATV or motorcycle, you don’t create a spark out on the landscape. And we’re urging everyone to truly make this the safest Labor Day weekend possible not only for themselves, but for our firefighters, who are exhausted. They are tired. They haven’t had a break since July 1.
Photo courtesy U.S. Forest Service
16
The Northern Light • September 23 - 29, 2021
WSDA plans to eradicate fourth nest
Semiahmoo power outage lasts 9 hours By Grace McCarthy
s Washington State Department of Agriculture (WSDA) is planning to eradicate the fourth Asian giant hornet nest found in east Blaine on Thursday, September 23, WSDA spokesperson Karla Salp said. WSDA found the nest about 20 feet up in an alder tree on September 10. Photos courtesy WSDA
A recent power outage that left Semiahmoo residents without electricity for nearly 9 hours was caused by a 12-volt underground cable on Semiahmoo Drive that had a fault in it and damaged two primary cables. City of Blaine public works director Bernie Ziemianek said the cables were older and could have been stressed from high voltage
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