The Northern Light: November 17-23, 2022

City council delays downtown revitalization project contract

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Blaine City Council tabled voting on the engineering design services contract for Blaine’s Downtown Revitalization Project during its November 14 meet ing. Council was expected to vote on the contract in mid-September but has pushed the vote several times.

If approved, the contract would award Seattle-based KPG Psomas Inc. $620,000 to provide engineering design services for the revitalization project. The revitalization project is expected to cost $2.83 million total, paid for by al ready allocated funding.

The project would beautify the down town core through improvements such as landscaping and flowerbeds, public art, benches, bike racks and pedestrian signs on Peace Portal Drive. The project is also expected to install a pavilion at G Street Plaza, improve the Martin Street parklet and upgrade public spaces to improve ADA accessibility.

Council was set to vote on the con tract during the last council meeting, on October 24, but tabled the vote because councilmembers Garth Baldwin and Mike Hill were absent. With Baldwin and Hill not present at the November 14 meeting, council unanimously decided to table the vote again at the urging of councilmember Eric Davidson.

Interim city manager Dave Wilbrecht said delaying the vote pushed the project timeline, but didn’t cause major problems.

“It’s a project, so it just starts later,” he said. “There was a schedule put together and that was based upon it being approved earlier. It just rotates the schedule.”

Davidson told the other councilmem bers he wasn’t sure whether he wanted to approve the contract.

“It’s a lot of money for a lot of fun stuff,” he said. “I’m hesitant to vote ‘yes’ on it with the state we’re in, as far as our budget goes. That doesn’t mean

Veterans Day tribute in Veterans Memorial Park

Expected red wave turns blue in 42nd district

Democrats swept the local field pre vailing over newcomers and incumbents alike. Sharon Shewmake (D) won the tight race for the 42nd Legislative Dis trict’s Senate seat. The race against in cumbent Simon Sefzik (R) was a hardfought battle, but with 234 votes left to count at 5 p.m. November 15, Shewmake was in the lead by 836 votes.

“I’m really honored and excited to do good work and I’m here to talk to people, whether they voted for me or not,” Shew make said in a phone interview. “Every thing is a community effort.”

Housing is first on Shewmake’s agen da when the Washington state legislature convenes on January 9. She said housing affordability makes it harder for county residents to recover from the November

2021 floods, is the biggest part of people’s budgets that can be controlled and has en vironmental components.

“It’s everything,” Shewmake said. “If we don’t do something right now, What com County will be a place where only millionaires can live and that’s not ac ceptable to me.”

Shewmake received 37,771 votes (50.5 percent) and Sefzik received 36,935 votes (49.3 percent).

“I’m not going to lie and say it doesn’t hurt, but at the end of the day the people made their decision and you move on,” Sefzik said in a phone interview, later add ing. “I was never the most likely candidate for this position and we worked really, really hard. That’s the hardest part, to get close but not cross the finish line.”

Sefzik said he reached out to Shew make and offered his congratulations.

He said he’s determining his next step – whether that is law school, as he orig inally intended, getting his master’s degree or working locally. Regardless, Sefzik said he remains committed to tackling rising crime and homelessness, lowering the cost of living and creating a more accountable government.

“I want to thank the people of Whatcom County whether they voted for me or not,” Sefzik said. “I love this place. As a skinny kid with a funny last name, thank you for giving me a chance.”

About 70.3 percent of the county’s 157,580 registered voters turned in their ballots. Whatcom County Auditor’s Of fice estimated another 234 ballots were left to count by 5 p.m. November 15 after 110,830 ballots were counted.

B y I an h aupt

Blaine school board is asking resi dents who live in district 1 and are in terested in filling the district’s vacant seat to send in a letter of interest.

At last month’s board meeting, the board formally accepted board member Todd Nun amaker’s resignation. It is now accepting let ters of interest from residents who live with in the district 1 boundaries, which include Point Roberts and western parts of down town, are a U.S. citizen and registered voter.

Letters will be accepted until Friday, De cember 9, according to a November 14 news release.

Nunamaker cited “continued health challenges” as his reason for resigning. He was the board’s vice president.

The board has 90 days from the date of Nunamaker’s resignation to select a replacement for his position following interviews held in public session. It will start interviewing candidates in January. The appointed director will serve until the next election in November 2023.

Letters should be addressed to the board of directors and submitted either by email at comments@blainesd.org or mailed to Blaine school district at 765 H Street, Blaine WA 98230. They should describe the candidate’s interest in serv ing on the board, including prior expe rience, qualifying factors and goals as a potential board member.

For more information on applying to the vacant seat, contact the Blaine school district superintendent’s office at 360/332-5881.

s Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 9474 and American Legion Post 86 honor those who have served on Veterans Day, November 11, at Veterans Memorial Park in downtown Blaine. More photos on page 7. Photo by Ian Haupt

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City ...

hesitant to say ‘yes’ on it.”

Councilmember Richard May asked Wilbrecht what percent age of the project funding was

grants and what percentage was money that could be spent on more urgent needs.

“How much of this money only exists because we’re doing this fun thing, and if we don’t do this fun thing, that money never passes through Blaine at all?” May asked.

Wilbrecht said he would re turn to council with answers to

the financial questions. He said the city would need to com plete some of the project’s ob jectives for safety reasons such as street repairs, tree removal and sidewalk repairs. Those repairs would go into the op erations budget if not included in the downtown revitalization, he said.

“There were some things in this project that we’re going to do anyway because they’re relative to safety,” Wilbrecht said. “If it’s not approved by council, we’ll find a way to drive it into the op erations budget because we can’t let some things go undone.”

Councilmember Rhyan Lo pez asked how much of the project budget the city would need to spend anyway on safe ty upgrades. Mayor Mary Lou Steward agreed with pushing the vote and councilmember Kerena Higgins said she would consider a modified revitaliza tion project.

“Quite frankly, I wasn’t look ing at it as a fiscal conversa tion,” Wilbrecht said. “I was looking at it from a different point of view so I wasn’t pre pared for the fiscal conversa tion and I apologize for that.”

A jump in assessments doesn’t always result in the same

Did your property assessment take a big jump for 2023? Are you worried that your prop erty taxes will go up a similar amount? Don’t worry, increas es in property assessments and property taxes rarely go hand in hand. How so?

The various government agen cy taxes that make up your tax bill are typically budget-based tax levies that are limited to a one-percent increase annually.

For instance, in 2021, the entire valuation of the Blaine school district (which encom passes Blaine, Birch Bay and Point Roberts) was $5.03 bil lion and the Blaine school dis trict tax levy was $11,515,364. The mill rate, or cost per $1,000 of assessed value was 2.29. A house worth $100,000 would have paid $228.99. In 2022, the assessed value of the district rose to $5.38 billion an increase of 7.15 percent. Meanwhile, the

Election ...

From page 1

The Whatcom County Audi tor’s Office was previously behind on processing ballots because of windstorm-caused network out ages that limited connection to the state’s voter registration sys tem, VoteWA. The auditor’s office had over 25,500 ballots left to count after the initial count on November 8.

County auditor Diana Brad rick said in an interview that election workers did not count ballots over Veterans Day or the weekend because the office had not budgeted for overtime pay and the ballots still needing to be processed wouldn’t have changed the outcome for the close races. “Having people come in over the holiday weekend wasn’t going to change the results,” she said.

Incumbent Alicia Rule (D) won the state representative po sition 1 seat in the 42nd Legisla tive District with a slightly higher margin than the state senate race. Rule received 38,516 votes (51.7 percent), while Tawsha (Dyks tra) Thompson, received 35,942 votes (48.2 percent) in support.

Joe Timmons (D) won the

school district levy increased to $11,853,358 resulting in a re duced mill rate of 2.19. If the value of that $100,000 house increased at the same rate as the school district, the taxes owed would have increased by $6.71, an increase of 2.9 percent.

An individual’s property tax es are limited by the Washing ton state constitution to one percent of market value ($10 per $1,000). Voter-approved special levies, such as special levies for schools or this year’s proposed EMS levy, are in ad dition to the constitutionally mandated amount.

In 2022, the levy rates cal culated for individual taxing districts generally decreased as a result of higher assessed val ues. However, levy rates did in crease for voter-approved mea sures. The average levy rate for 2021 taxes was 10.01 per thou sand dollars of assessed value, while the average levy rate for 2022 taxes decreased to 9.15.

42nd Legislative District’s state representative position 2 seat. Timmons had 38,028 votes (51.2 percent), while Dan Johnson (R) had 36,157 votes (48.7 percent).

Jonathan Rands won the What com County District Court judge position 2 race. Rands received 62.3 percent in support, while Gordon M. Jenkins received 37.1 percent in support.

Jaime Arnett won the com missioner district 3 seat for Public Utility District No. 1. Ar nett received 45,692 votes (52.2 percent), while Eric Davidson trailed behind with 41,150 votes (47 percent).

Incumbent Steve Hobbs (D) retained his position as Wash ington state Secretary of State. Hobbs received 50 percent in support throughout the state.

Julie Anderson (nonpartisan) had 45.8 percent in support. Over 4 percent of the votes were write-in.

U.S. Senate incumbent Patty Murray (D) retained her seat. Murray received 57.3 percent in support statewide, while Tiffany Smiley (R) received 42.5 percent votes statewide.

U.S. representative Rick Lars en (D) will retain his seat in Washington state’s 2nd U.S.

The total taxable assessed value in Whatcom County in creased from $38.33 billion to $43.16 billion for 2022 taxes. Property taxes collected in 2022 by all taxing districts in What com County increased overall 4.8 percent over 2021. Proper ty taxes totaled $404,471,919 in 2022, up $18.4 million over 2020’s $386,098,169 that was levied for all taxing districts.

Each year, the county phys ically assesses a sixth of the properties in the county.

In 2022, Blaine, Birch Bay and Point Roberts were phys ically assessed. In 2023, Lyn den and the surrounding area will see county assessor vehi cles. Because the county can not physically assess the entire county each year, it uses what is called a mass appraisal meth od that analyses properties grouped by similar market in fluences and characteristics. A three-bedroom home in good condition in Lynden would be

Congressional District. Larsen received 60.5 percent in support statewide, while Dan Matthews (R) received 39.2 percent in sup port statewide.

The Whatcom County chil dren’s initiative levy lid lift, Proposition 2022-5, appears as though it will fail with 53,940 votes (50 percent) against and 53,766 votes (49.9 percent) in support. The proposition is fail ing by 174 votes.

The county’s Emergency Med ical Services levy increase, Prop osition 2022-6, passed as 68,460 votes (64 percent) are in sup port, and 38,539 votes (36 per cent) are against.

Bradrick said ballots are still coming in and the election results aren’t finalized until they are certified on Tuesday, November 29.

“It really isn’t over until we cer tify, and we get ballots until the day of certification,” Bradrick said. “The numbers aren’t static. We will continue to get ballots until the 29th.”

The next ballot count was scheduled for 5 p.m. Thursday, November 17. To view election results, visit bit.ly/3FZAXsD

Boys and Girls Club asking for $30,000 donation match to Blaine clubhouse

An anonymous Blaine resident will match up to $30,000 in do nations from fellow residents to the Blaine chapter of the Boys and Girls Clubs of Whatcom County (BGCWC) this holiday season. The donation match will end December 31.

The Blaine club provides meals and supports students with after school learning activities.

“We are immensely grateful for the generous support of this gracious and long-term donor from Blaine. Her matching gift

challenge will help ensure we can sustain our array of life-en hancing programs for kids in the Blaine community,” said Heather Powell, CEO of BGCWC, in a November 7 press release.

The BGCWC was founded in 1946 with the goal of helping youth reach their full potential. The clubs accept children 5-18 years old for a yearly $40 mem bership. In addition to Blaine, Whatcom County clubs are lo cated in Ferndale, Lynden and Bellingham.

appraised similarly to a sim ilar home in a similar neigh borhood in Blaine. Both homes would receive a similar adjust ment in their assessments.

An annual mass appraisal revaluation generally results in greater uniformity and con sistency in property tax as sessments and a more equal distribution of property taxes within the taxing jurisdiction. This method has been in ef fect since January 1, 2014, and was the result of a law enacted by the state legislature. An in dividual property valuation is typically determined by looking at recent sales of similar prop erties. Mass appraisals do the same thing but look at groups of properties rather than indi vidual properties.

The vast majority of our county taxes go to the state (29.99 percent), county (7.95 percent), school districts (32.4 percent), Port of Bellingham (1.93 percent) and EMS dis

tricts. Note: School district percentage is a combination of all county school districts and is not specific to the Blaine school district.

What could drive your taxes up?

For one, the approved county EMS levy would reauthorize a levy rate of $0.29 per $1,000 of assessed property. Voters autho rized this levy rate in 2016 for six years; by last year, the levy rate had declined to $0.22 per $1,000. Secondly, you may own the kind of property that saw an above-average rise in market value in the last year; if so, both your assessed value and your taxes will rise higher than.

In any event, you won’t have to wait long to find out. Typi cally, property tax statements are mailed out during the third week of February.

(Ed note: For clarity, mill rates and total valuations have been rounded to two decimal places.)

Visit whatcomclubs.org to do nate or contact Sara Maloney at 360/738-3808, ext. 304 or smalo ney@whatcomclubs.org

Photo courtesy BGCWC

The Northern Light is published weekly by Point Roberts Press Inc.

Locally owned and managed, the com pany also publishes the All Point Bulletin, covering Point Roberts, Mount Baker Ex perience, 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 Associ ation, Chambers of Commerce of Belling ham/ 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 veri fication. Letters are limited to 350 words and may be edited or rejected for reasons of legality, length and good taste. The letters to the editor column is primarily intended to allow readers to voice their opinions on local issues of general interest to local readers. A fresh viewpoint will increase the likelihood of publication. Thank-you letters are lim ited 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. Con sumer complaints should be submitted di rectly to the business in question or the lo cal chamber of commerce. Only one letter per month from an individual correspon dent will be published. Email letters to letters@thenorthernlight.com.

Publisher & Managing Editor

Patrick Grubb publisher@pointrobertspress.com

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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

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General Editorial Inquiries editor@pointrobertspress.com

Op-Ed: What does it take to bend, not break? Make a difference before disaster strikes

B y M aur I I n G ra M and J ohn p erry

Are we a resilient community? What does that look like?

A year ago this week, Whatcom County experienced the largest natural disaster in its history. Catastrophic flooding caused by severe wind and rainstorms killed one resi dent, displaced more than 500 and caused more than $150 million in confirmed dam ages; an elementary school was destroyed and 2,000 homes – including 80 percent of those in Sumas – were damaged. FEMA approved more than 1,500 applications for financial support with awards totaling $5.6 million.

As part of the private, community-based response in both official and unofficial roles, we were there. And we’re here to tell you: Resilience looks like community –neighbors helping neighbors, chipping in, stepping up and MacGyvering their way through troubled waters to help people reach high ground, and then doing it again and again until neighbors are not just safe but made closer to whole: physically, emo tionally, financially.

Of course, resilience is also robust in frastructure, flexible resources, strong leadership, sharp communication, clear roles and established protocols. Resilience is having a plan, along with the courage and imagination to change it to meet the moment.

Above all, resilience depends on rela tionships, ideally forged during ordinary times to lean on for the extraordinary mo ments when community support is the difference between bending and breaking. We cannot emphasize this enough. Trust ed relationships – between public, private and nonprofit leaders, among neighbors and community partners – ensure respect, speed action and allow for creative solu tions, whether rescuing your neighbor’s cows, figuring out how to get people shel tered, or deciding where to donate your time or money.

The fact is we weren’t prepared. We couldn’t help people fast enough. Govern ment money is slow and covers a fraction

of recovery costs. The Whatcom Long Term Recovery Group (WLTRG, formerly Whatcom Strong) reports 590 families still requesting disaster aid; 48 still need per manent housing. Damages are expected to exceed $200 million in the months ahead as buyouts and pending flood mitigation go forward. Recovery is expected to take three years.

Community foundations in the U.S. typ ically play an essential role in disaster re lief and recovery and the Whatcom Com munity Foundation is no different. With knowledge of the area’s strengths and chal lenges, community foundations are a use ful philanthropic partner during disasters.

The Whatcom Community Founda tion set up the Resilience Fund several years ago with the idea that it would be ready and activated during a disaster. Nearly $3 million was granted to area nonprofits for Covid relief. Then came the floods. As of mid-October 2022, the foundation has granted $2.6 million for flood relief and recovery. These heroic numbers are all thanks to the stunning generosity of local businesses and neigh bors like you as well as people from far away with a heart for humanity. Neigh borliness in action. Resilience.

Resilience Fund dollars initially ad dressed humanitarian needs, then shifted to recovery efforts including supporting WLTRG disaster case managers. While lasting solutions for housing, infrastruc ture and business recovery hinge on public funding, the WLTRG formed as a nonprof it dedicated to recovering and rebuilding following not just this, but all disasters.

Because there will be more. Experts pre dict that heavy rainfall events – like the “atmospheric river” rainstorms that led to flooding last year – to be more frequent and severe. Then there’s “the” earthquake or another pandemic or something else. Based on experience here and nationally we know:

• Community members often lead res cue work, relief and recovery.

• Disasters disproportionately affect marginalized people – 2021 floods in cluded.

The Editor:

I want to extend a huge “thank you” to the residents of Blaine, Birch Bay and Custer for their generosity to the Com munity Assistance Program’s winter coat drive. To those establishments that gave space for collection bins, and those who filled them with winter items, this bless ing would not happen without you. We received a total of 621 coats to be distrib uted, as well as hundreds of hats, scarves,

socks and other winter clothing. Our team of volunteers was able to serve 116 families in our community with the warm items they’ll need for this winter season.

Amee Nelson Community Assistance Program Blaine

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 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 Planning Commission: Second Thursday, 6 p.m. Info: blainepc@cityofblaine.com. Info for joining Zoom meetings: bit.ly/3EwWiZi.

WCLS

• Disasters widen the wealth gap and create further inequities.

• Middle-class families whose homes are severely damaged face the threat of a cas cading cycle of poverty due to the hard ship of being displaced and demands of rebuilding homes and businesses.

• The Resilience Fund model works; lo cal donor resources offer the swiftest re lief and are essential to helping stabilize people.

• Disaster may be short-lived; recovery is not. Funding for long-term recovery is harder to attract, and, in the case of last November’s flood, desperately needed for mold remediation, rebuilding, appli ances and repairs.

Right now, we’re raising money for the Resilience Fund because the flood isn’t over for many in our community, and because we need to prepare for the next crisis. Will you or someone you love need help?

Building a community that bends without breaking is an all-hands effort, addressing everything from policy and infrastructure to temporary housing and food solutions and household pre paredness. And it starts and ends with good relationships.

We’re all neighbors. County or city; red or blue; brown, black or white; rich, poor or neither: None of that matters when your

(See Op-Ed, next page)

Correction

In the November 10 issue of The Northern Light, Janell Kortlever should have been given photo credit for the front page photo. We regret the error.

Blaine-Birch Bay Park and Recreation: Second Tuesday, 5:30 p.m., location varies. Info: bbbparkandrec.org. The December meeting will be 5:30 p.m. Wednesday, December 14 at Blaine Senior Center.

Blaine Park and Cemetery Board: Second Thursday, 9 a.m., council chambers and virtual meeting. Info: 360/332-8311, ext. 3330.

Blaine School Board: Fourth Monday, 7 p.m., Blaine school district offices. Info: blainesd.org.

North Whatcom Fire & Rescue: Third Thursday, 11 a.m., Station 61 at 9408 Odell Road and via Zoom. Info: nwfrs.net.

s The Sumas library during the November 2021 floods.

Photo by Alison Boudle/courtesy

Maritime apprenticeship program starts in county

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A new maritime apprentice ship program is underway for Whatcom County residents who want to better their skills as ma rine service technicians. The four-year program allows mar itime employees to gain more knowledge in their profession, while subsequently helping the companies grow.

Whatcom Working Waterfront Foundation started the North west Maritime Apprenticeship program. The foundation is connected to the Working Wa terfront Coalition of Whatcom County, which has over 135 members working to promote the maritime sector.

Deborah Granger, the pro gram’s apprenticeship training coordinator, said the program was brainstormed in late 2018 as the coalition’s members expressed frustration of getting trained workers and began researching programs along the west coast.

“Our maritime trade compa nies are very, very busy and they struggle getting and retaining workers who have the skills and knowledge to work in this sec tor,” she said. “It’s extremely time consuming and difficult for com panies to train them themselves because they have their own work to do.”

The state-certified program was slowed by the pandemic and state requirements, but was finally able to start its first class in October.

“They are working toward a journey level,” Granger said. “At the end of the four years, they will be a professional tech nician with a wide range and be an asset to the company, or potentially a supervisor or start their own company.”

The program’s first cohort of 11 students is attending one night class per week and one Saturday workshop per month for eight months. The first cohort started learning occupational first aid and workplace safety and have moved onto marine terminology and ap plied math, Granger said. The classes have taken place in compa ny spaces around Squalicum Har bor. After finishing in April 2023,

City council approves property tax increase

Blaine City Council unani mously approved a 1 percent increase to the city’s 2022 prop erty tax levy during its No vember 14 meeting. The 1 per cent increase will raise about $13,400 in additional property tax revenue in 2023.

Blaine homeowners will pay on average $4 more per year with the levy. No members of the public spoke during the city’s October 24 public hearing on the levy. The 2023 levy will collect about $1.35 million.

the cohort will start level two next fall alongside a new group of stu dents entering level one.

Students learn foundational learning in the boat and then will be able to specialize in their last two years of the program. They can specialize in up to six marine service specialty areas through the advanced compe tency program.

Students take related supple mental instruction in 12 areas including general marine tech nology and safety, gasoline and diesel engine repair, maritime law, navigational equipment, paint and finish applications, ac cording to the Working Water front Foundation. The supple mental instruction is based on The Quadrant Marine Services Institute in B.C. training pro gram, which has operated for 27 years and has over 40 students graduate per year.

Op-Ed ...

From previous page

house is on fire. What does resil ience look like? You. And me. Us. The more we prepare and care for each other now, the better off ev eryone is when disaster strikes.

When we strengthen rela tionships – across the street, across sectors and across the county – we bolster our ability to support each other equitably before, during and after a disas ter or crisis. That’s what resil ience looks like. Please join us to build the Resilience Fund for Whatcom County.

Mauri Ingram is the CEO and president of Whatcom Community Foundation and John Perry is the mayor of Everson and a member of the Whatcom Long Term Recovery Group.

Whatcom County’s maritime sector makes up 7 percent of the county’s workforce, or over 6,000 jobs, and is in need of trained workers, according to the Work ing Waterfront Foundation.

Granger, Northwest Diesel Power, NW Explorations and Washington state Labor & In dustries worked together to develop the program, while Washington Sea Grant, Career Connect Washington and pri vate donors have financially sup ported the program.

Granger said she would like to see 15 students per cohort, with a total of 60 students in the pro gram per year, as well as for the training to expand throughout the state.

“I hope Whatcom County can be a hub for marine technology training,” she said. “I’ve been im pressed with the students. They want to learn, which is exciting.”

CITY OF BLAINE

Information on how to listen 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 call in number or location may change.

Tuesday, November 22 3:30pm –Civil Service Commission Meeting *CANCELLED*

November 24 and 25 City Offices Closed

Monday, November 28 6:00pm – City Council Meeting: Continued Public Hearing on 2023 Budget

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

s Northwest Maritime Apprenticeship students attend class in Bell ingham on November 12. Photo courtesy Deborah Granger

spOrts

Blaine freshman wins state 2A swimming title in 500 freestyle

meet and they all couldn’t help but cheer for Hailey.

“Usually we don’t cheer be cause she tells us she can’t hear us while she’s in the water,” Christine said.

Hailey beat her previous per sonal best in the 500 free by eight seconds. Coming into state championships, Hailey was seeded fourth and fifth in the 50 and 500. The 50 didn’t go quite as she hoped. As the second seed after the prelims, she finished third in the final in a season-best time of 24.90, .85 seconds off the winner. Head coach Julia Landon said it was not what she wanted.

But Hailey used that to make it count in the 500. Christine said she came out fast and just didn’t quit.

“When she touched the wall the look of shock will remain in our brains forever,” Landon said in an email.

Blaine has a new state champion who may be around for a while.

Freshman swimmer Hailey Ferrell took home a first and third place from the girls 2A state swim and dive championships last weekend. Hailey won the 500 freestyle by two seconds in a personal-best time of 5:25.01 – a shocking performance after she

was seeded sixth after the pre lims, where she swam 5:35.27.

“She wasn’t expecting it,” Hai ley’s mom Christine Ferrell said. “It was very exciting.”

Christine said Hailey led the race from the start. Her counter and teammate Sylvie Lausier was keeping her on pace and pushing for her to stay out in front, Chris tine said. Hailey’s dad, grandpar ents and sister were also at the

Christine said Hailey started swimming competitively when she was seven with Pacific Sea Wolves Swim Club in White Rock. Hailey has also taken up wrestling, but Christine said swimming is her main sport and she plans on swimming all four years of high school.

Christine thanked Lausier for the support. “She didn’t have to come to state but she did,” she said.

Landon said the co-op team with Ferndale overall had an impressive season, and she was excited to see Hailey represent it at state. “I’m always proud to see the swimmers we coach suc ceed,” Landon said.

Blaine athletes sign letters of intent

podium

championship

Photo by Julia Landon

s Ava Curtright, l., and Piper Nissen represent their chosen schools at their signing day November 9. Curtright

playing soccer for Montana State University Billings next year and Nissen will be playing softball for Edmonds College in Lynnwood.

Photo by Maddy Ernst

s Hailey Ferrell, l., and Ferrell’s teammate and counter Sylvie Lausi er at state championships on November 12. Photo by Julia Landon

The Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 9474 and American Legion Post 86 honored those who have served during the annual Vet erans Day tribute at Veterans Memorial Park in Blaine on November 11.

Photos by Ian Haupt

s

A: The main advantage of using a VA loan is that no down payment is needed. Some veterans choose to make a down payment, but none is required. Similarly, to compensate for rising home prices, there have been updates on VA loans recently that provide even more benefits. Specifically, eligible veterans with full entitlement no longer have limits on loans that they can afford based on income. Lastly, it is a lifetime benefit, which can be reused under certain conditions. Here in Whatcom County, there were 106 homes bought with VA loans in the past year. As a veteran-owned company, we have helped many people purchase their dream homes using the VA loan. If you want to learn more about buying with a VA loan, please contact us. Thank you to all veterans for your service!

www.peacearchrealestate.com

A: Neurotoxins and dermal fillers (Juvederm) are both used to recess the signs of aging, The difference between the two is how they work.

Neurotoxins (BOTOX, Jeuveau, Dysport, Xeomine) are used to smooth and prevent wrinkles by relaxing the muscles that cause the wrinkle. They are most commonly used to soften wrinkles between your brows, forehead and crow’s feet.

Dermal Fillers (Revanesse, Restylane, Juvederm) are used to restore volume, fill in lines and folds. They give back lost fullness, plump lips and help lift areas of your face to restore youthfulness.

Using neurotoxins and dermal fillers will take years off your face! Regular treatments really help you look your best now and in years to come.

Book your appointment today! 30% OFF for new clients!

A: When foot pain arises, it is a common thought that more cushion will solve the problem. In reality, foot pain usually requires more support in a specific location to offload the painful area. A firmer over the counter orthotic or custom orthotic can often bring quick relief in these cases. At Capstone your physical therapist can recommend and sell both over the counter orthotics or cast and help develop a custom orthotic that fits the needs of your feet. Capstone Physical Therapy is conveniently located at seven locations throughout Whatcom County and is accepting new patients at our Birch Bay Square location and our Blaine clinic on H Street.

8125 Birch Bay Square, Suite 248 Blaine WA 98230 360-366-5511 www.capstonept.com

Q: Should I be doing a Roth conversion?

A: A Roth conversion, where money is moved from your Traditional IRA to your Roth IRA, is a taxable event. In order for a Roth conversion to make sense financially there are a few items to consider. First, if you are in the upper tax brackets this may not be the best time to do a Roth conversion. This will add to your taxable income at your highest marginal tax rate. For some retirees, the years before taking social security and withdrawing the required minimum distributions from your retirement plans are the ideal years for a conversion. Second, you should consider if you have time to let the conversion grow in the Roth IRA. When you convert traditional IRA dollars you must wait 5 years before withdrawing this money. Also, the main benefit of a Roth IRA is that the growth in the account is NOT taxable. In order to make the conversion worthwhile, you should let the assets grow. At Skyline Advisors we can help you with your Roth conversion questions.

Skyline Advisors, Inc. is a Registered Investment Adviser. Past performance is no guarantee of future returns. Investing involves risk and possible loss of principal capital. No advice may be rendered by Skyline Advisors, Inc. unless a client service agreement is in place. Skyline Advisors, Inc. is not in the business of providing specific tax advice. Clients are encouraged to engage a tax professional for specific tax questions and recommendations.

The main difference is the documentation required by the bank. Pre-qualification is a non-documented process where we ask about your financial status, such as your last two years of employment, residen cy, annual income, and general banking information. We use this to produce an approval letter which shows sellers that you are a serious buyer. When you have an accepted offer, we’ll request the documents required to close the loan. For pre-approval, we’ll gather the required documents up front to obtain loan approval before you even start looking for a home.

Blaine Cordata Lynden Ferndale Barkley

Q: Will a shoe insert with a lot of cushion lessen my foot pain?

Jordan Crim, DPT, Cert. MDT Physical Therapist

Dr. Ken Stiver MD

Q: What is the difference between neurotoxins and dermal fillers?

Q: What are the advantages of using a VA home loan to buy a home?

Deka Wiebusch

Port of Bellingham receives $3.6 million for Sea K Fish cleanup

B y G race M c c arthy

The Port of Bellingham will receive $3.36 million from the Washington state Department of Ecology (DOE) to pay for a portion of petroleum cleanup near seafood wholesaler Star fish Inc.’s property in Blaine Harbor. The port commission ers unanimously approved funding for the site, known as the Sea K Fish property, during their November 1 meeting.

Contamination was first re ported in 1996 at the site, near 225 Sigurdson Avenue. In 2016, the port discovered an oil sheen on riprap in the west ern area of Blaine Harbor and reported it to the DOE. The port used a boom to control the oil sheen while it conducted preliminary investigations that lasted until 2019.

Investigations showed old

underground petroleum stor age tanks leaked petroleum, and former fish oil processing equipment leaked hydraulic fluids into surrounding soil and groundwater. The port contacted DOE in spring 2020 about starting formal cleanup under the state’s law for con tamination cleanup, Model Toxics Control Act (MTCA).

The port was eligible for a new MTCA grant that will pro vide 50 percent funding of the port’s grant-eligible remedial costs for the cleanup, accord ing to the port. With the proj ect’s total cleanup cost expect ed to be $8.85 million, the port will budget for an additional $5.49 million in the coming years. Ben Howard, the port’s environmental project manag er, said DOE could potentially have additional grants for the project in the future.

Howard said there was no way to quantify the amount of leaked petroleum.

“We don’t want to minimize it by saying it’s a minor site because it is an important cleanup project, but it’s really a petroleum-driv en cleanup site so there’s a little bit more certainty on how those projects can be done,” Howard said. “We do have a lot of data from the remedial part.”

The interim action construc tion of the project – which will eliminate the oil sheen coming into the harbor – is expected to start summer of 2024 and fin ish that fall, Howard said. The interim action cleanup won’t impact harbor activities out side of the site.

“It was evident that there’s an ongoing release of what appears to be petroleum from the bulk head,” Howard said. “Ecology is requiring an interim action

to eliminate the sheen that’s coming out in the harbor.”

After the interim action is complete, the port will eventu ally develop a final cleanup ac

tion plan. There isn’t a sched ule yet for the final cleanup, but it would be likely a couple of years after the interim ac tion, Howard said.

& Pet Care

Is your dog acting different? Here’s how to identify their anxiety

Mental health issues have garnered some much-needed attention in recent years. As the world confronted a global pan demic, the mental health cost of that confrontation proved

significant, prompting millions of people to speak openly about mental health for the first time. Much of the conversation surrounding mental health conditions in recent years has

focused on the human toll those conditions have taken. But mental health issues, in cluding anxiety, can affect pets as well. According to the Amer ican Kennel Club (AKC), dog anxiety can affect all breeds. As a result, it behooves all dog owners to learn about dog anx iety so they can be in the best position possible to help their furry friends.

What is anxiety?

The anxiety dogs feel is not much different than that felt by humans. Merriam-Webster defines anxiety as “apprehen sive uneasiness or nervousness over an impending or antici pated ill.” Although the AKC acknowledges that all dogs feel anxiety at one point or an other, the organization warns that disproportionate levels of anxiety that go untreated can produce an anxiety disorder in

dogs. Such disorders can pave the way to behavioral and other issues.

What causes anxiety in dogs?

The Merck Veterinary Man ual indicates that fear, separa tion and aging are some of the most common causes of dog anxiety. Some dog owners may recognize that their dogs are fearful of loud noises, strang ers (including both people and animals they don’t recognize), veterinary visits and certain vi sual stimuli. Though that fear is often temporary, it could lead to significant anxiety in some dogs.

The AKC estimates that around 14 percent of dogs are affected by separation anxiety. These dogs cannot be comfort able when their owners leave, and they may engage in var

(See Pets, page 13)

s The Sea K Fish cleanup site, near 225 Sigurdson Avenue, in the western area of Blaine Harbor.

Photo courtesy Washington state Department of Ecology

s Milo dresses as a reindeer for Christmas. Photo by Rachel Jacox

IN THE SUPERIOR COURT OF THE STATE OF WASHINGTON IN AND FOR THE COUNTY OF Whatcom In Re the Estate of Paul D. Hodge, Deceased. NO. 22-400983-37. PROBATE NOTICE TO CREDI TORS. (RCW 11.40.030) JUDGE: Robert E. Olson.

The personal representative named below has been appointed as personal represen tative 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 provid ed in RCW 11.40.070 by serving on or mail ing 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 pre sented within the later of: (1) Thirty days after the personal representative served or mailed the notice to the creditor as provid ed 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: November 3, 2022

Personal Representative: Gary D. Hodge 1411 E. Axton Rd Bellingham, WA 98226

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 Num ber: Cause No. 22-4-00983-37

Pets

IN THE SUPERIOR COURT OF THE STATE OF WASHINGTON IN AND FOR WHATCOM COUNTY In re the Estate of: JENNIFER LYNNE HANSEN, Deceased. No. 22-4-01068-37. NOTICE TO CRED ITORS. Judge Lee Grochmal

The Personal Representative named below has been appointed and has qualified as Personal Representative of this estate. Any person having a claim against the dece dent must, before the time the claim would be barred by any otherwise applicable stat ute of limitations, present the claim in the manner as provided in RCW 11.40.070 by serving on or mailing to the Personal Rep resentative or the Personal Representa tive’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 Personal Representative served or mailed the no tice 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: November 10, 2022 with Clerk of Court: Date of First Publication: November 17, 2022

Name of Personal Representative: KATHERINE MCCAIN

Attorney for Personal Representatives: 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: November 10, 2022.

AVERY ELDER LAW, P.S. STEVEN D. AVERY, WSBA #35262

Attorney for Personal Representative: KATHERINE MCCAIN

SUPERIOR COURT OF WASHINGTON FOR CHELAN COUNTY In the Matter of the Es tate of JAN T. STEVENS, Deceased. No. 22-4-00535-04. NONPROBATE NOTICE TO CREDITORS. RCW 11.42.030

The notice agent named below has elected to give notice to creditors of the abovenamed decedent. As of the date of the filing of a copy of this notice with the court, the notice agent has no knowledge of any other person acting as notice agent or of the appointment of a personal representa tive of the decedent’s estate in the State of Washington. According to the records of the court as are available on the date of the filing of this notice with the court, a cause number regarding the decedent has not been issued to any other notice agent and a personal representative of the decedent’s estate has not been appointed.

Any person having a claim against the decedent must, before the time the claim would be barred by any otherwise appli cable statute of limitations, present the claim in the manner as provided in RCW 11.42.070 by serving on or mailing to the notice agent or the notice agent’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 notice agent’s declaration and oath were filed. The claim must be presented within the later of: (1) Thirty days after the notice agent served or mailed the notice to the creditor as provid ed under RCW 11.42.020(2)(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 11.42.050 and 11.42.060. This bar is effective as to claims against both the decedent’s probate and nonprobate assets.

DATE OF FIRST PUBLICATION: November 10, 2022

The notice agent declares under penalty of perjury under the laws of the State of Washington on 15th day of August, 2022, at Highland Park, Illinois, that the foregoing is true and correct.

Notice Agent: PAMELA A. CARLSON Attorneys for the Notice Agent: David J. Bentsen

Address for Mailing or Service: Speidel Bentsen LLP 7 North Wenatchee Avenue, Suite 600 P.O. Box 881 Wenatchee, Washington 98807

Court of Notice Agent’s Oath and Declaration and Cause Number: Chelan County Superior Court Cause No. 22-4-00535-04

Prepared By: SPEIDEL BENTSEN LLP

By: David J. Bentsen, WSBA No. 42107 7 North Wenatchee Avenue, Suite 600 P.O. Box 881 Wenatchee, Washington 98807 (509) 662-1211

All real estate/rentals advertising in this news paper 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 discrim ination. 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 ad vertised in this newspaper are available on an equal opportunity basis. To complain of discrimination, call HUD toll-free at 1-800877-0246.

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.

General

Pets ...

From page 10

ious negative behaviors as a result. Such behaviors include chewing or destroying furni ture, urinating or defecating in the home even if they’ve been trained, and excessive barking.

Age-related anxiety has been linked to cognitive dysfunction syndrome, or CDS. In such in stances, dogs with CDS experi ence anxiety as they deal with issues affecting their memory, perception and awareness.

What are some symptoms of anxiety in dogs?

The AKC advises dog owners to be on the lookout for these important symptoms of dog anxiety:

• Aggression

• Urinating or defecating in the house

• Drooling

• Panting

• Destructive behavior

• Depression

• Excessive barking

• Pacing

• Restlessness

• Repetitive or compulsive behaviors

Anxiety can be a serious issue for dogs that adversely affects their quality of life. Various ap proaches can be tried to treat dogs with anxiety. Dog owners who suspect their dogs are ex periencing excessive anxiety are urged to discuss their concerns with their veterinarians.

OBITUARIES

Norman Michael Walsh

January 28, 1959 – November 2, 2022

Norman was born on January 28, 1959 to Ronald and Lois Walsh, the third of five chil dren, with Teresa and Robert coming before and Tammie and Chris after. He was 63 when he passed on November 2nd, 2022.

Norman went to Blaine High School. He worked as a commercial fisherman with his family on his dad’s boat the “Stanley” and also became a shipwright. After many years work ing at the shipyard, he later purchased the yard and changed the name to Walsh Marine. Norman was always the go-to guy when you needed something done with a boat.

From the time of his diagnosis until he passed, he spent his time doing the things he loved. He rebuilt mini bikes and grew a small garden enjoying all the time he had. Norman had also started work ing on restoring a historic Bristol Bay gill net boat and he was very proud of the work he was doing. In more carefree times he enjoyed playing the drums, and also going camping where he could go gold mining.

Norman is survived by his wife Melissa Joesten; mother Lois Walsh; brothers Robert and Chris Walsh and sister Tammie Cam eron; nieces and nephews Angie Nickle, Autumn Beruman, Traci Walsh, Jake Wiederspohn and Jimmy Wilder; uncle Richard Walsh (and family) and aunt Susan St. Claire (and family).

Norman was preceded in death by his father Ronald Walsh and sister Teresa Parks.

Graveside services with be held at Greenacres on Northwest Drive on Tuesday November 22, 2022 at 2 p.m. A reception will follow at the home of Rod Parks.

A “Norman Walsh Memorial Fund” will be set up shortly at WECU.

Lawrence Alvin Peterson “Larry”

Lawrence Alvin Peterson “Larry”, age 79, of Birch Bay passed away in Bellingham Wednesday, November 9, 2022. A memorial service will be held Monday, November 21, 2022, 1 p.m. at Birch Bay Bible Community Church, 4460 Bay Road, Blaine, WA 98230 with Pastor Tim Theissen officiating. Please share your thoughts and memories of Larry online at www.sigsfuneralservices.com

Peter Winterfeld

April 17, 1940 - October 11, 2022

Surrounded by loved ones, Peter Winterfeld passed away October 11, 2022 in Birch Bay af ter a long battle with diabetes.

He was born on April 17, 1940 in Sonder shausen, Germany to Willi and Gertrud Win terfeld. Peter moved with his family from Germany to Canada after World War II to start a new and better life. His father answered an ad in a local newspaper from Pioneer Mine in Canada, looking for an engineer to work in the gold mine. He gained employment there for the next three years. His moth er cleaned houses for the mine personnel and saved every penny she made. They lived in company housing and made some lifelong friends. Peter attended grade school in Pioneer Mine and attended Bralorne High School.

When his father’s three-year term was up, the family moved to New Westminster, BC and opened up a German delicatessen in which Peter worked as a teenager. He was up every morning at 4 a.m. to make 50 pounds of potato salad. He also attended Lester B. Pearson High School, and New Westminster Secondary School. Af ter completing high school, he studied civil engineering at Universi ty of British Columbia. Peter was drawn to the trees and mountains. He became an avid skier and developed a love for photography.

While attending UBC he was reunited with a childhood friend, Eleanore Schwerin, and in 1965, they were married. They both were avid skiers and worked on the Jasper ski patrol. In 1969, they moved to California to pursue careers, continue education, and start a family. Then, in 1970, Peter and Eleonore bought their first house in Huntington Beach. They welcomed their one and only son, Jason. There, he learned how to surf and a love for the ocean was formed.

Peter started out selling cars at Johnson and Sons but then real ized that the real estate business was his calling. He flourished in real estate and eventually became vice president of Aames Home Loan from 1976-1997. During his time in California he found an other love, sailing. He graduated from sailing Hobie Cat catamarans to 40+ foot sailboats. Most weekends you could find him working on or sailing his sailboat from dawn till dusk, listening to music, and enjoying charcuteries. Peter ventured out from working for oth ers and in the early 2000s he started his own business, California First Mortgage. After a few years of running his successful business, life changes, and retirement brought Peter back to the PNW to his paradise: Birch Bay.

Here he met his best friend and life partner Jerrylyn Barney. Jer rylyn and Peter spent the last decade together living a very active lifestyle: boating around the local islands and bays, walking, biking, socializing, and gardening. He continued to ski into his early 80s at his beloved Mount Baker, often bragging about being the fastest skier among his friends. He was heavily involved in his communi ty by volunteering his time with Birch Bay Village Board for nine years, the Birch Bay Watershed and Aquatic Resources Management District, and an appointee and member of the Whatcom County’s Boards and Commissions, and the Birch Bay Village Yacht Club.

Peter is survived by his son, Jason Winterfeld; his granddaughter Shaylah Winterfeld; his daughter-in-law, Wendy Winterfeld; and his life partner; Jerrylyn Barney. Services will be held June 25, 2023 in Birch Bay State Park followed by a Celebration of Life at the Birch Bay Village Clubhouse.

Irene Noela Neyens

December 11, 1939 – October 28, 2022

Irene Neyens, age 82, passed away peace fully in her sleep on October 28, 2022 at Good Samaritan Society-Stafholt. Irene was born on December 11, 1939 at St. Joseph Hospital South Campus in Bellingham, to Irene Edmonds and William Snow. She was later adopted by Lloyd Edmonds and raised by him and her mother. Irene attended school in the Bellingham School District, graduating from Bellingham High School in 1959.

Irene is survived by her six children Margaret (Richard) Neyens. Lori Morrison, Kevin (Erika) Neyens, Andy Neyens, Rodger (Kat) Neyens, and Tami (Daryl) Grimme; her 16 grand children, and 12 great-grandchildren; as well as her brothers Jer ry (Ruth) Edmonds and Duke (George) Snow of Bellingham, and Ben Snow of Southern California; plus many nieces, nephews, and cousins. She was preceded in death by her husband of 63 years Rogan Neyens; her parents Irene and Lloyd Edmonds and William and Dorothy Snow; and brother Lynn Edmonds.

The family would like to thank the amazing Stafholt team that loved Irene and took such good care of her for the past three years.

A celebration of life will be held on Friday, November 18 at 12 p.m. at the Northwood Chapel, 580 C St. Blaine.

for REAL news

Nov. 3, 9:25 a.m.: Suspicious circumstances on Valley View Road, Custer.

Nov. 3, 4:41 p.m.: Civil problem on Cedar Lane.

Nov. 3, 6:08 p.m.: Domestic physical on Sunrise Road, Custer.

Nov. 4, 4:49 a.m.: Behavioral health issue on Alder Street.

Nov. 4, 12:36 p.m.: Suspicious ve hicle on Alderson and Blaine roads.

Nov. 4, 3:37 p.m.: Burglary on Birch Bay-Lynden Road.

Nov. 4, 9:45 p.m.: Security check on Highland Drive.

Nov. 4, 10:12 p.m.: 911 hangup on Yvone Way.

Nov. 4, 10:19 p.m.: Traffic hazard on Sunrise and Badger roads, Custer.

Nov. 4, 10:52 p.m.: Traffic haz ard on Birch Bay Drive.

Nov. 5, 12:46 p.m.: Traffic haz ard on Sunrise Road, Custer.

Nov. 5, 4:45 p.m.: Motor vehicle accident blocking on Birch Bay Drive.

Nov. 6, 12:52 a.m.: Domestic or der violation on Pacific Highway.

Nov. 6, 10:33 a.m.: Domestic verbal on Sweet Road.

Nov. 6, 11:04 a.m.: Fraud on Jackson Road.

Nov. 7, 12:14 a.m.: Assault with a weapon on Peace Portal Drive.

Nov. 7, 7:58 a.m.: Behavioral health issue on Surf Place.

Nov. 7, 8:25 p.m.: Motor vehicle accident on Birch Bay-Lynden Road.

Nov. 8, 5:38 a.m.: Domestic physical on Loomis Trail Road, Custer.

Nov. 8, 6:40 a.m.: Behavioral health issue on Surf Place.

Nov. 8, 2:33 p.m.: Parking prob lem on Whitehorn Way.

Nov. 8, 3:49 p.m.: Threat on Custer School Road, Custer.

Nov. 8, 7:28 p.m.: Shots on East Street.

Nov. 8, 7:36 p.m.: Shots on Harbor Drive.

Nov. 9, 7:44 a.m.: Domestic verbal on Boblett Road.

Nov. 9, 11:31 a.m.: Suspicious

circumstances on Bay Road.

Nov. 9, 11:51 a.m.: Motor vehi cle accident on Birch Bay-Lynden Road and Portal Way.

Nov. 9, 2:35 p.m.: Trespass on Birch Bay Drive.

Nov. 9, 5:13 p.m.: Motor vehicle accident blocking on Bay and Jackson roads.

Nov. 10, 3:19 a.m.: Suspicious person on Harbor Drive.

Nov. 10, 12:08 p.m.: Parking problem on Sole Drive.

Nov. 10, 12:22 p.m.: Parking problem on Halibut and Clamdig ger Drive.

pOLiCe repOrts

Nov. 4, 9:45 a.m.: Assault inves tigation on C Street.

Nov. 4, 11:03 a.m.: Verbal domes tic dispute on Bayview Avenue. Nov. 4, 1:19 p.m.: Assault and tres passing investigation on 10th Street.

Nov. 4, 2:43 p.m.: Trespass autho rization letter on Boblett Street. Nov. 4, 3 p.m.: Suspicious circumstance on Semiahmoo Parkway.

Nov. 4, 8:51 p.m.: Assist citizen on H Street.

Nov. 4, 10:35 a.m.: Involuntary commitment on 11th Street.

Nov. 5, 12:40 p.m.: Trespass report on E Street.

Nov. 6, 1:08 a.m.: Domestic dis pute – no assault on A Street.

CrOssWOrd

Nov. 6, 10:16 a.m.: Suspicious circumstance on H Street.

Nov. 6, 7:13 p.m.: Abandoned vehicle on Peace Portal Drive.

Nov. 7, 12:10 a.m.: Assault –felony on Peace Portal Drive.

Nov. 7, noon: Assist citizen on H Street.

Nov. 7, 3:10 p.m.: Juvenile prob lem on Harrison Avenue.

Nov. 7, 7:23 p.m.: Protection order violation on 10th Street.

Nov. 8, 8:27 a.m.: Behavior health issue on Bayview Avenue.

Nov. 8, 7:44 p.m.: Information report on 10th Street.

Community Toy Store Toy Drive: Through December 2. High quality toys in the $20–$50 range are needed for Blaine/Birch Bay’s holiday gift assistance program. Unwrapped toys may be dropped off at the Blaine Library, Blaine Senior Center, Pacific Building Center, Birch Bay Village Rec Center, and Semiahmoo Golf Club, marina cafe, athletic club and resort. Online direct delivery and monetary donation options are also available. Visit blainecap.org for full details. Sponsored by the Community Assistance Program. For questions, email toystore@blainecap.org.

Community Toy Store Registration: Families who need holiday gift assistance can get full details and register online through November 27 at blainecap.org or call 530/828-5195. Sponsored by the Community Assis tance Program.

Birch Bay Chamber Annual General Meeting: Thursday, November 17, 4–6 p.m., Birch Bay Leisure Park clubhouse. Speakers, networking, refresh ments. Info: birchbaychamber.com.

BHS Drama Performance “The Little Mermaid”: Thursday–Saturday, November 17–19, 7 p.m., Sunday, November 20, 2 p.m., Blaine Perform ing Arts Center. Blaine High School students perform the Disney musical. Children and students $5, general admission $10.

Trivia at The Vault: Thursday, November 17, 7 p.m., 277 G Street. This week’s theme: General knowledge. Info: thevaultwine.com.

Music at The Vault: Friday, November 18, 7 p.m., 277 G Street. Featur ing: Dick and Jane. Info: thevaultwine.com.

Birch Bay Flood Vulnerability Community Meeting: Saturday, No vember 19, 1 p.m., Birch Bay State Park BP Heron Center, 7290 Birch Bay Drive. The meeting will focus on the Whatcom County Coastal and Riverine Compound Flood Vulnerability and Risk Assessment project. Con sultants will show flooding projections, ask community members to share their observations and be available to speak with residents. Discover Pass required for parking.

Music at The Vault: Friday, November 25, 7 p.m., 277 G Street. Featur ing: Michael Dayvid. Info: thevaultwine.com.

Olde Fashioned Christmas in Ferndale: Friday, December 2 and Satur day, December 3, 4-9 p.m., Pioneer Park, 2004 Cherry Street, Ferndale. Visit with costumed volunteers in the cabins of Pioneer Park. Tickets $5 adults, $3 children. Sponsored by the Ferndale Heritage Society. Info: fern daleheritagesociety.com.

Friends of Blaine Library Book Sale: Saturday, December 3, 10 a.m.–5 p.m., Blaine Community Pavilion, 635 8th Street. Holiday shopping made easy with DVDs, CDs, coffee table books, teen’s and children’s books, adult fiction and non-fiction, and more. There’s something for everyone. Shop the sale and support the Blaine Library’s Building Project.

Pancake Breakfast: Saturday, December 3, 8–11 a.m., Blaine Senior Cen ter, 763 G Street. Pancakes, scrambled eggs, sausage, coffee and orange juice. Adults $7, kids under 6 $5. Info: 360/332-8040.

Christmas Market and Bake Sale: Saturday, December 3, 9 a.m.–3 p.m., St, Anne Church 604 H Street. Craft items, gifts, baked goods and more. Multiple vendors, raffles and fun.

Blaine Holiday Harbor Lights Bazaar: Saturday, December 3, 11 a.m.–5:30 p.m., 648 Peace Portal Drive. Info: blainechamber.com

tides10th Annual Holiday Lights Dash: Saturday, December 3, 2 p.m., Lin coln Park (H Street entrance). Bring the family out for this family-friendly fun obstacle holiday-themed run/walk. Holiday attire is encouraged. Adults $10, family up to five $30, kids 5-17 $5, under 5 free. Preregister online at bbbparkandrec.org or day-of from noon-1:30 p.m. Sponsored by BlaineBirch Bay Park and Recreation District 2. Info: bbbparkandrec.org.

November 17 to 23 at Blaine. Not for navigation.

49° 0’ 0”N - 122° 46’ 0”W

DATE TIME HEIGHT TIME HEIGHT

Th 17 4:52 am 1.8 12:54 pm 9.1

8:15 pm 4.8 11:33 pm 5.3

Fr 18 5:50 am 2.5 1:22 pm 9.1

8:23 pm 3.8

Sa 19 1:23 am 5.7 6:50 am 3.3

1:46 pm 9.2 8:45 pm 2.7

Su 20 2:43 am 6.5 7:48 am 4.1

2:10 pm 9.3 9:11 pm 1.4

Mo 21 3:47 am 7.5 8:44 am 4.9

2:34 pm 9.3 9:43 pm 0.2

Tu 22 4:43 am 8.5 9:38 am 5.7

3:00 pm 9.4 10:17 pm -1.0

We 23 5:37 am 9.4 10:32 am 6.4

3:30 pm 9.5 10:55 pm -2.0

Precipitation: During the period of November 7-13, no precipitation was recorded. The 2022 yearto-date precipitation is 28.7 inches.

Temperature: High for the past week was 53°F on November 13 with a low of 25°F on November 9. Average high was 39°F and average low was 32°F.

Courtesy Birch Bay Water & Sewer Dist.

Holiday Harbor Lights Tree Lighting: Saturday December 3, Blaine G Street Plaza. 4–5 p.m., live music and caroling; 4:45 p.m., tree lighting; 5–7 p.m., free horse-drawn carriage and mini train rides, visit Santa and Mrs. Claus in the Welcome Center. Info: blainechamber.com.

Ongoing

Blaine Food Bank: 500 C Street. Open Mondays 9 a.m.–noon, Wednes days 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 Wednes days, 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.

Friends of Birch Bay Library: Meets second Mondays. 6:30 p.m., Birch Bay Birch Bay Vogt Library site, 7968 Birch Bay Drive. Info: friendsofbirch baylibrary.org.

Friends of Blaine Library: Meets third Wednesdays, 6:30 p.m., Blaine Library, 610 3rd Street. Find out the latest library news at this monthly FOBL Board of Directors meeting. All members and guests are welcome to attend. Info: blainelibraryfriends.org.

WeatherAlaska Packers Association Cannery Museum: Open Saturdays and Sundays, 1–5 p.m., 9261 Semiahmoo Parkway. Free, donations welcome. Info: 360/371-3558.

Blaine Book Club: Friday, December 16, 1 p.m., Blaine Library, 610 3rd Street. December title: The Cold Millions by Jess Walter. Info: Kelly at 360/305-3637.

Blaine Serenity Al-Anon: Mondays, noon–1 p.m. on Zoom. Have you been dealing with alcoholism with a friend or family member? Info: Jerry lyn at 360/305-2246.

Alcoholics Anonymous Meetings: Tuesdays at 7 p.m., Fridays at 7:30 p.m., Saturdays at noon, women’s meeting Mondays at 4 p.m., Blaine United Church of Christ basement, 855 4th Street. Info: 208/750-8772 or shannonsessions2020@gmail.com.

Submissions to Coming Up should be sent to calendar@thenorthernlight.com no later than noon on Monday.

Report by Blaine Police Department.

Packers’ tomato soup

Semiahmoo Resort executive

chef Micah Windham has a warm tomato soup recipe just in time for the holidays.

• 1 small yellow or white on ion, rough chopped

• 2 cloves garlic, crushed

• 1 teaspoon caraway seeds

• 2 teaspoon yellow curry powder

• 1 teaspoon coriander seeds

• 1 (28oz) can tomatoes

• 1 cup heavy cream

• 1 cup water

• ¼ cup fresh cilantro

• ½ jalapeno, rough chopped (optional)

Sauté onion, garlic and spices in about 2 tablespoons of olive oil until soft and lightly browned.

Add tomatoes, cream and wa ter, simmer for 20-30 minutes.

Add cilantro and jalapeno and carefully blend (either with an immersion mixer or a blender) until smooth. Season with salt and pepper.

Chef Micah Windham is Se miahmoo Resort’s executive chef. He has over 25 years of culinary and restaurant management ex perience in Washington state and Florida.

Peter Autosales LLC

s Creamy tomato soup with warm Indian spices. Currently served in Packer’s during brunch. Feel free to adjust the spice level with more or less jalapeno. Photo courtesy Semiahmoo Resort

Don’t let pain keep you off the path

Don’t let pain keep you off the path

Don’t let pain keep you off the path

For those who suffer joint disease, orthopedic care is essential. Rather than riding out this pandemic in pain and discomfort, contact the experts at PeaceHealth Medical Group Orthopedics & Sports Medicine.

For those who suffer joint disease, orthopedic care is essential. Rather than riding out this pandemic in pain and discomfort, contact the experts at PeaceHealth Medical Group Orthopedics & Sports Medicine.

For those who suffer joint disease, orthopedic care is essential. Rather than riding out this pandemic in pain and discomfort, contact the experts at PeaceHealth Medical Group Orthopedics & Sports Medicine.

We specialize in surgical and non-surgical treatments for shoulder, hand, hip, knee and ankle pain and injuries. And, we are committed to providing the safest environment for your care – be it an in-person appointment or video visit. (Visit peacehealth.org/coronavirus to learn about our COVID-19 safety measures.)

We specialize in surgical and non-surgical treatments for shoulder, hand, hip, knee and ankle pain and injuries. And, we are committed to providing the safest environment for your care – be it an in-person appointment or video visit. (Visit peacehealth.org/coronavirus to learn about our COVID-19 safety measures.)

We specialize in surgical and non-surgical treatments for shoulder, hand, hip, knee and ankle pain and injuries. And, we are committed to providing the safest environment for your care – be it an in-person appointment or video visit. (Visit peacehealth.org/coronavirus to learn about our COVID-19 safety measures.)

For more information, call one of our convenient locations.

Bellingham | 360-733-2092

Friday Harbor | 360-378-2141

For more information, call one of our convenient locations.

Lynden | 360-733-2092

Sedro-Woolley | 360-856-8820

For more information, call one of our convenient locations.

Bellingham | 360-733-2092

Lynden | 360-733-2092

Bellingham | 360-733-2092

Lynden | 360-733-2092

Friday Harbor | 360-378-2141

Sedro-Woolley | 360-856-8820

peacehealth.org/st-joseph/ortho

Friday Harbor | 360-378-2141

Sedro-Woolley | 360-856-8820

peacehealth.org/st-joseph/ortho

peacehealth.org/st-joseph/ortho