The Northern Light: January 12-28, 2023

City to seek funding for Bell Road overpass

B y I an H aupt

Although the project was ditched in 2020, the city of Blaine will be seeking grant funding in February with the support of BNSF Railway to build a bridge over the railroad crossing on Bell Road near its intersection with Peace Portal Drive.

The city of Blaine has hired David Evans and Associates, Inc. to conduct a feasibility study for the Bell Road grade separation project that will help the city write grants for funding. Blaine City Council approved the $80,000 contract during its December 12, 2022 meeting.

The Bell Road and Peace Portal Drive intersection, which connects downtown Blaine to Birch Bay and Semiahmoo and offers access to I-5, causes delays for many commuters during rush hour and when a train is present. The angled street approach to the four-way stop often leaves drivers confused as to who has the right-of-way.

Interim city manager Dave Wilbrecht said the city needs a fix for the dysfunctional intersection.

A grade separation was considered in 2020, but was deemed too costly, so the city pursued adding streetlights and additional traffic lanes. When BNSF officials monitoring the grade separation project contacted the city in late 2022 to offer support, Wilbrecht said the city decided it was the best solution and began work toward securing funding.

The feasibility study will determine the scope, design and cost elements of the project to support the city with future grant applications, Wilbrecht said.

French Thompson III, public infrastructure and investments general director for BNSF, told The Northern Light in an email that BNSF sees a grade separation as the long-term solution. BNSF will be offering the city grant writing support along with its federally mandated 5 percent contribution to the cost of the project. Thompson also said with the passing of the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA) in November 2021, this is an ideal time to

Marine Park shoreline under construction

City eyes UPS building as future justice center

The city of Blaine is considering purchasing the UPS building on Peace Portal Drive to become a justice center that could house an expanded police station, evidence storage, municipal court and other city offices.

Blaine City Council unanimously voted for the city manager to sign a letter of intent on the property after an executive session in the January 9 council meeting. The letter would allow the city time for a feasibility study on whether the UPS supply Chain Solutions building at 2150 Peace

Looking back at

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Continued from last week ...

July

• David Wilbrecht was sworn in as interim city manager following the resignation of former manager Michael Jones. Wilbrecht served as the city’s manager from 2013 to 2018.

• Cabana Cuts hair studio opened in Birch Bay on July 1.

• The first northern giant hornet nest found in the U.S., in east Blaine, was put on display at the Smithsonian National Museum

a

Portal Drive could have city offices and departments such as the police department, which has special building requirements. The feasibility study would also allow the city to develop cost estimates for purchasing and renovating the building that Blaine residents would ultimately vote on in a future election, according to city documents.

“We’re going to need a police station that’s going to cost a lot of money to build it new. I think this is a great option to look at,” councilmember Eric Davidson said during the meeting. “I look forward to seeing what they find, not only for the police

year that just was

of Natural History in Washington, D.C.

• Blaine had its Old-Fashioned Fourth of July parade for the first time since the pandemic. Thousands attended for the parade, car show, live music, vendors and fireworks show.

• The Northern Light sat down with Harmit Gill, the new U.S. Customs and Border Protection port director for the Blaine area. Gill, a longtime Blaine resident, discussed what he hoped to accomplish in his first year and how he’s improving transparency within the agency.

• The Pacific Arts Association brought back in-person performances and classes at Blaine Harbor Music Festival and Camp for the first time since the pandemic.

• Whatcom County Library System hosted Pride in the Park to celebrate the LGBTQ+ community at Blaine Marine Park.

• The national suicide and crisis hotline changed to 988 to create better access to services.

• Former mayor and Blaine Food Bank op-

department, but for other potential tenants for revenue for Blaine.”

The current city council has had discussions on expanding the police station since the beginning of 2022. The station has been in the former post office, built in the ‘60s at the corner of H and 3rd Streets, since the mid-90s.

The previous city council had asked the city to give one-third of the adjacent old city hall property for the station’s expansion. City staff gave council the choice to

s The Blaine Marine Park shoreline will be under construction near the playground area until mid-February as the city of Blaine finishes its decade-long Marine Park Reconstruction Project. The playground will be closed until Wednesday, February 15. The project’s second phase will repair the remaining shoreline and add two pocket beaches near the Lighthouse Point Water Reclamation Facility

Photo by Molly Ernst

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consider other options for the police station after three new councilmembers were added at the beginning of last year. Council then discussed over several meetings whether it wanted to use the old city hall or build a new police

station, potentially in east Blaine, where more housing is expected in the coming decades. During a June meeting, council directed staff to prepare a preliminary report on the cost to develop a fullscale station.

Blaine real estate agent Ron Freeman said he notified the city two months ago that the UPS building would be for sale. Freeman said UPS no longer needed the building, which is not yet on the market, as most of its employees started working remotely.

“The city has, for some time, been looking to relocate the Blaine police station and this property is centrally located in the city so they can service all points,” Freeman said. “The budget for purchasing this building compared to constructing a new building could offer quite significant savings to the city.”

The three-story building is 25,570 square feet on 1.53 acres of land with room for additional buildings to be constructed, Freeman said. The almost 30-year-old building is mostly large, open office space but also has meeting rooms and executive offices. It has over 100 parking spaces.

Interim city manager Dave Wilbrecht said the feasibility study will take about a year to finish.

The city will need to look at the UPS building’s zoning, which doesn’t neccessarily allow government offices right now. If the city moves forward with the project, Wilbrecht said the voter-approved initiative would likely be on ballots in April 2024.

“It’s important for citizens to know they’ll be participating in ultimately what the city does or doesn’t do with the building,” he said.

Blaine police chief Donnell Tanksley said the UPS building would provide adequate space for the police department for the next 40 to 50 years but he was also open to other options.

“I’m in favor of the city taking a look at all possibilities within the

Bell Road ...

From page 1

pursue federal funding. Wilbrecht estimates the project to exceed $50 million.

city limits of Blaine to acquire a facility that meets the operational and functional needs of, not only the police department, but the municipal court,” he said. “It’s not just the UPS building, but any avenue to achieve the goal.”

Tanskley said it would be ideal to build a new police station from the ground up, but sufficient money and planning could transform the UPS building into a good justice center. He added it would be beneficial for the court and police department to be close to each other.

The need for a new station is a pressing issue for the police department operating in a station just over 3,200 square feet. For

a starting cost of $50 million.

comparison, that’s nearly four and five times smaller than Lynden and Ferndale’s stations, respectively.

The department also has been storing its evidence in a temporary container since the old city hall, where it previously stored evidence, was demolished last summer. If the city used the UPS building for a justice center, city documents show $1 million already set aside for a temporary evidence storage facility would go toward remodeling the building.

“We’re all appreciative of the positions we have here with the city of Blaine and we’re dedicated to our community,” Tanskley said. “But we certainly need to get this running.”

to pursue other options.

In memory of Michael Dan Bailey

This weekend a good friend passed away. It seems right to share a few words about Mike. Over the 59 years we knew Mike he was a man above men. He dedicated much of his life to the Seal Team. This required skill, bravery, and devotion. His efforts and the work of others in the service allow us to have the freedom to live our lives in liberty. He was one of the most honest people we have known. He was a loyal friend. As the years passed his commitment to our relationship never wavered. After our time in Vietnam, we traveled totally different roads. Nevertheless, he was always a phone call away.

We write this as a testament to his valor and devotion. It is the only way we know to say goodbye with meaning. We will keep Mike in our memory until GOD sees fit to reunite us. Thanks Mike for all the wonderful experiences.

The city will take leadership of submitting grants, the first of which is due February 28, while BNSF will provide grant writing help. Wilbrecht said funding from the first grant, with a maximum amount of $25 million, would be used to develop the project’s scope and determine an estimated cost. The city would then apply for another grant to fund design and development, which he said would not begin until 2024. That would act as preliminary work for a third grant application for construction.

IIJA authorized $1.2 trillion in infrastructure spending across more than 380 federal programs.

The city has also planned for the project to replace the Dakota Creek bridge on Blaine Road, which becomes Bell Road before the railroad crossing. Thompson said the project would not directly impact BNSF operations.

“The main benefit of the project is the elimination of train-vehicular interaction and provide a quality of life and mobility improvement for the residents of Blaine and its surrounding communities,” Thompson wrote.

In 2020, city staff discussed the possibility of a grade separation project with Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) and estimated

Former city manager Michael Jones said at the time that it was determined to be too expensive, adding that the necessary adjustments would be too disruptive to the area. The city therefore sought funding for a $3 million project to install streetlights and bypass lanes.

Wilbrecht also said the cost of the project began to quickly exceed $50 million once the Dakota Creek bridge replacement was included. Now, with BNSF on board, the city will give it another go, but if it cannot secure sufficient funding, Wilbrecht said they will have

“If the grade separation doesn’t come through, we still need to solve the problems at this intersection,” he said.

Wilbrecht said WSDOT has been supportive in communicating and planning with the project. He also said the city is encouraging Whatcom County to get involved with the project since it affects Birch Bay residents.

Whatcom County Public Works spokesperson Mandy Feutz told The Northern Light in an email the city of Blaine and public works are communicating about the project.

Sincerely, E. Ray Critchett Jim Thomas

s The UPS Supply Chain Solutions building at 2150 Peace Portal Drive. Photo by Grace McCarthy

s Cars in line at the Bell Road and Peace Portal Drive intersection in January 2021.

Photo by Ian Haupt

Year in Review ...

From page 1

erations manager Gerald “Jerry” Bladies was remembered for his community service after he died July 17. He was 86 years old.

• Scientists asked the public to start calling the world’s largest hornet the “northern giant hornet” to avoid using a geographical region in the insect’s name.

• Blaine school district adopted its 2022-23 budget that had a four-year budget forecast projecting a $14 million deficit.

• Birch Bay Chamber of Commerce’s Rollback Weekend and Sand Sculpture Contest took place in Birch Bay over July 30-31.

August

• Bayside Beauty Salon owner Judy Dunster celebrated 50 years of styling hair in Blaine on August 1.

• Birch Bay Chamber of Commerce and Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office celebrated National Night Out at Birch Bay State Park to strengthen community ties between residents and their first responders.

• The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers released an environmental impact statement on operating the north wing of the BP Cherry Point shipping terminal. The Corps planned to consult with local tribes before determining whether the wing should be used as permitted.

• The August 2 primary election indicated a tight November race between Democrats and Republicans.

• The first Whatcom County resident tested positive for the monkeypox virus on August 2, and the White House declared monkeypox a public health emergency on August 4. By the end of 2022, Whatcom County had had five cases in total.

• Family Care Network CEO and president Dr. Rodney Anderson said the company was committed to building a Blaine healthcare facility on the Gateway property, despite the lack of progress.

• Drayton Harbor Maritime Festival and Pirate Daze returned for a weekend of maritime-themed family activities. The Prestigious George Raft Race was a festival highlight.

• A Whatcom County Health Department survey showed the county experienced a small decrease in homelessness in the past year that department officials believed was because of increased resources.

• Demolition started on the old city hall building on H Street Au-

gust 9, bringing down nearly a century of history.

• City and county officials said Yew Avenue and Drayton Harbor Road, near Shintaffer Road, were expected to remain closed for the foreseeable future after the November 2021 flooding damaged them.

• City council approved annexing two H Street properties, five acres total. It was the first east Blaine annexation since 1996.

• City council discussed allocating $900,000 of remaining federal Covid-19 stimulus before the end of 2024.

• City council approved a planning document that would start the process of making amendments to the central business district zoning involving downtown height restrictions and parking regulations, etc. Council agreed to form an ad hoc downtown development advisory committee.

• Drayton Harbor Oyster Company sought approval to add a floating oyster farm in a cleaner area of Drayton Harbor as water quality continued to be a challenge. The farm would also reduce impact on eelgrass.

• Hill’s Chevron owner Mike Hill recently purchased a 3,500-pound Sasquatch statue that he placed on a pedestal on the edge of the gas station’s property.

• Simon Fraser University announced it would hold four home games at Blaine High School’s stadium because Canada’s vaccination requirement created barriers for traveling teams.

• The Good Ol’ Boys golf group donated $18,500 to Blaine Food Bank, surpassing its previous two donations.

• Blaine-Birch Bay Park and Recreation District 2 honored Heidi Holmes for 11 years of service as the district’s program manager. Holmes left the district earlier in the year.

• Former Blaine public works director Bernie Ziemianek was asked to resign after allegedly using a city credit card to purchase over $4,000 in personal items.

• The city of Ferndale fired Ferndale police officer and Blaine resident Michael Scott Langton after he was charged with attempted child molestation.

• Summer Fun in the Park livened Blaine Marine Park with music, entertainment and food trucks.

• The 43rd annual Discover Birch Bay Days brought back its parade for the first time since the pandemic and took over Birch Bay August 27-28.

• Blaine school district welcomed its students for the first day of school on August 31. September

• Conditionally approved NEXUS members who reapplied for membership before their card expired were given a five-year grace period to receive a new card. This came as U.S. enrollment centers were seeing extensive backlogs.

• Totally Chocolate’s owners purchased the company’s Sweet Road facility for $7.3 million from Totally Chocolate’s founder.

• Governor Jay Inslee announced September 8 that he would lift Washington’s Covid-19 state of emergency by the end of October.

• Whatcom Water Week kicked off with the 10th annual Run with the Chums 5K race at BP Highlands.

• An unofficial 9/11 memorial was held under the Peace Arch on September 11 to honor those who died during the 2001 terror attacks.

• Bennett Knox started his first day on the job as Whatcom County Parks and Recreation Department’s new director. Knox previously had a 20-year career at Louisville Metro Parks.

• The Cascadia Innovation Corridor brought cross-border dignitaries, including Microsoft co-founder Bill Gates, to Semiahmoo Resort for its “Cascadia 2050 Vision: Moving to climate action.”

• The newly established Blaine Arts Council recruited members and began monthly meetings with the goal of improving the city’s arts scene.

• Sahara Pizza opened in Birch Bay Square on September 28.

• County council established an alternative 911 response team pilot program to determine whether behavioral health professionals should respond to behavioral health calls.

• Gateway 1890 Taphouse and Grill hosted ‘Gate-Oberfest’ that had keg rolling, pretzel eating and stein relay contests.

• Caryl Dunavan, a domestic violence victims advocate for small cities in Whatcom County, was honored for her service during the September 26 city council meeting.

• Amtrak resumed train service from Seattle to Vancouver, B.C. for the first time since the pandemic. October

• The Canadian government dropped its Covid-19 vaccination, random testing and ArriveCAN app requirements on October 1.

• The Bridge Community Hope

Center opened its Grace Core Academy office for chaplain training and counseling services on Alderson Road.

• U.S. District Court in Seattle dismissed the lawsuit alleging Whatcom County government officials committed fraud during the November 2020 election. Other nearly identical lawsuits across the state were dismissed.

• Two Blaine kindergarten classes consolidated as the district’s kindergarten numbers were below normal enrollment. The district over budgeted by 43 kindergarten students, which cost the district nearly $740,000.

• Former Custer resident and country music star Loretta Lynn died

(See Year in Review, page 7)

Marine Park Closure

s A crowd lines up at Drayton Harbor Oyster Company for the Blaine Oyster Festival on October 6, 2022. The first event drew thousands to downtown Blaine for a day of enjoying oysters, vendors and live music.

Photo by Ruth Lauman

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. 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 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

Editor Grace McCarthy grace@pointrobertspress.com

Reporter Ian Haupt ian@pointrobertspress.com

Creative Services Doug De Visser, Ruth Lauman 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 Dr. LuAnn Chen, Doug Dahl

Taco Bell adds new dining option on SR-543 OpiniOn

The Editor:

I would like to congratulate Grace McCarthy for three years of excellent journalism at The Northern Light. She has now been there for three years, first as an intern for university credit and now at the helm as editor. This paper, and others like it, are essential to informing the public about key societal institutions in their further advancement, and Ms. McCarthy has done a brilliant job documenting many of the key issues.

As a previous editor, I had the privilege of interviewing Ms. McCarthy for her internship application. After she was accepted, not only did she do top-notch reporting, but she also asked important ethical questions. When a small business that she was writing about sent her a free, unsolicited product sample, she asked if she should keep it or send it back. When a local legislator asked to edit one of their statements after a Q&A, Ms. McCarthy asked for guidance on this too (I advised that the politician couldn’t revise their quote).

In a profession that does not have legislated rules for sound constitutional reasons, these types of questions must be deliberated upon by each journalist as they chart their own course. Indeed, all of us must consider such questions, since we are all journalists every time we post on social media, speak up about common concerns and shared issues, or otherwise express ourselves to others.

The whole team at The Northern Light is doing a wonderful job at serving its readers, encouraging community engagement and helping to raise awareness of import-

Letters

ant topics relevant to this unique and special part of America and the world.

Thank you for reading my letter, and best wishes to Ms. McCarthy for the continued progress of her outstanding journalism career.

Jami Makan Coquitlam, B.C. and Blaine

The Editor:

I was encouraged to read Dr. Sandhya Gelou’s letter (January 5-12 issue) in which she addressed the urgency of diabetes prevention, noting some remarkable successes in the American Indian and Alaska Native communities.

All other populations are continuing to trend upward in diabetes diagnoses at alarming rates.

It’s time to connect some dots: Diabetes prevention should be an ambitious public health initiative. Now. Not off into the future.

Type 2 diabetes, the opioid crisis, alcohol and tobacco use have something in common. They are among the top health challenges in our country. They are expensive to contain and treat and raise the cost of insurance and medical care for employers and employees. Additionally, they negatively impact workforce participation.

The governor, chambers of commerce, business owners and various media are expressing concerns about the difficulty in recruiting and retaining a stable workforce. These challenges have become acute.

In December, the CDC warned of a 700 percent surge in diabetes in young Americans under the age of 20 in the coming

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.

decades. This new research should be a wake-up call to ensure all of our children are the healthiest they can be.

Our health department will be the administrator of the Healthy Children’s Fund (Proposition 5) that was approved in November 2022. They should include diabetes prevention as a priority. Prop. 5 plans are still in their developmental phase – so it’s possible to include diabetes prevention in the 10-year project, which is funded by property taxes.

How many readers know the elected Whatcom County Council comprises the board of our county health department?

It was county council that voted to put the so-called healthy kids measure on the ballot, even though there was no developed plan defined.

Diabetes prevention belongs on the public health agenda if we want a future healthy labor pool. Where’s the leadership?

Delores Davies Ferndale

Please send letters to letters@thenorthernlight.com no later than noon

Correction

In the January 5 issue of The Northern Light, Dr. Sandhya Gelou’s workplace was incorrect. Dr. Gelou is in private practice. Chuck Kinzer’s photo was also miscredited in the Birch Bay Chamber of Commerce’s Year in Review submission. We regret the errors.

Blaine-Birch Bay Park and Recreation: Second Tuesday, 5:30 p.m., location varies. Info: bbbparkandrec.org.

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.

on Monday.

s Taco Bell opened at 805 Grant Avenue in late December 2022. The fast food chain is open from 9 a.m. to 10 p.m. daily for dine-in and from 9 a.m. to 12 a.m. daily for drive-thru, according to its website. Jason White, vice president of marketing at White-Leasure Development Company, said McDonald’s is expected to open by early May. White-Leasure’s other three lots on the Gateway property are still available, White said.

Photo by Grace McCarthy

B y G race M c c art H y

The Blaine Marine Park playground will be closed until Wednesday, February 15, as the city of Blaine begins remediation work to clean the shoreline and reduce erosion. The construction ends the city’s decade of work on its Marine Park Reconstruction Project.

“I hope people are patient as we make these improvements,” said Alex Wenger, the city’s tourism and economic development director. “We’ll also take the opportunity while the playground is closed to clean it so when it reopens, the playground is ready for springtime.”

The reconstruction project will remove broken concrete and

debris and add rock materials to 600 feet of shoreline from the end of the park on Marine Drive to the Lighthouse Point Water Reclamation Facility, according to the city. The project will improve shoreline access and safety, while controlling erosion and improving the habitat for fish and waterfowl.

Wenger said the project is expected to finish below its $900,000 budget. Blaine City Council approved the city entering a nearly $600,000 construction contract with Premium Services Inc. for the project during its December 12, 2022 meeting. A $500,000 grant from the Washington State Recreation Conservation Office’s ALEA program paid for the majority of the project, with the city’s park capital improvement funds supplementing the remaining funds.

JIJ Corporation owners Skip and Katie Jansen, who are developing East Harbor Hills in east Blaine, donated about $30,000 in rocks for the project. Council approved the donation of the 400 tons of rocks during its Decem-

ber 27, 2022, meeting.

In 2011, the city completed the reconstruction project feasibility study that assessed the project and then, in 2014, improved 400 feet of shoreline during the project’s first phase.

This year’s improvements will be done in two parts. Replacing rock along the shoreline is expected to be completed by February 15. Two pocket beaches and two headlands will be installed near the water reclamation facility in October and November.

Wenger said the city wanted to get as much of the project finished now to protect the shoreline from winter weather.

The park will reopen mid-February and will temporarily close for the remaining construction in the fall. The park trail will be resurfaced and open this spring and summer. Signage and landscaping improvements will also be added, Wenger said.

Last March, the city finished minor repairs to the old landfill site on the eastern side of the park that eroded during a January 2021 storm. Wenger said

the city decided not to pursue a permanent fix.

“The project is the last phase of these planned improvements to the marine park shoreline,” Wenger said. “With the playground and the Lighthouse Point Water Reclamation Facility being completed, this is the last big improvement there.”

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.

Thursday, January 12 6:00pm – Planning Commission Meeting *CANCELLED*

Thursday, January 19 9:00am – Ad Hoc Downtown Advisory Committee Meeting Monday, January 23 4:30pm – Study Session: OPMA/ PRA Training 6:00pm – City Council Meeting

Ad hoc downtown advisory committee holds first meeting

B y G race M c c art H y

The city of Blaine’s ad hoc downtown advisory committee held its first meeting in council chambers on January 5, bringing a world-renowned architect and longtime planning commissioner to the table to discuss downtown improvements.

Blaine City Council approved the committee last August as part of a larger plan to make amendments to the central business district. The city decided to revisit its downtown zoning after developers expressed concern about building height and parking restrictions that were limiting development. The committee is required as part of the public participation process of the project.

The group will discuss proposed policy changes, advise planning

commission on proposed code amendments and make recommendations to city staff.

“We’re going to spend the first couple of quarters having meetings, discussing updates and coming up with a package of recommendations,” said Stacie Pratschner, director of the city’s community development services (CDS) department.

The committee was originally slated to start in late August but was pushed because council delayed voting on the community representatives. In October, council approved the committee members: Bruno Freschi, chief architect for Expo 86 in Vancouver; Greg McHenry, planning analyst for the Port of Bellingham; councilmember Eric Davidson; planning commissioner Kevin Owens; Susan Sturgill, former planning

commissioner of 20 years; Scott Meaker, builder who did design construction for the downtown Starbucks; Gurdeep Zeal Bains, who owns several downtown buildings including the Border Town Pizza building; Mia Richardson, owner of Comphy Co.; and Glen Pentland, former chairperson of the Blaine Parks and Open Space Committee.

The committee is separate from the ad hoc development advisory committee that councilmembers proposed last April to improve communication and discussion on development throughout the entire city. City staff determined last spring that CDS staff didn’t have time to run the committee.

The first meeting was mostly foundational for committee members with discussions on introductions, the committee’s decision-making format and background on previous city codes.

City councilmember Mike Hill, who attended as a member of the public, suggested the committee should have three councilmembers observe each meeting. Pratschner suggested the committee hold joint study sessions with council and possibly planning commission.

The committee is scheduled bi-monthly. The next meeting is 9 a.m. Thursday, January 19.

Tuesday, January 24 3:30pm – Civil Service Commission Meeting Thursday, February 2 9:00am – Ad Hoc Downtown Advisory Committee Meeting Thursday, February 9 6:00pm – Planning Commission 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

s Construction at Blaine Marine Park will close the playground until Wednesday, February 15. Photo by Grace McCarthy

s City staff and members of the ad hoc downtown advisory committee held their first meeting in council chambers on January 5.

Photo by Grace McCarthy

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2022 year in REVIEW

Blaine school district

It is always interesting as a school superintendent to reflect on a calendar year, because the world of education works on a school year that spans from the end of August to the beginning of June. While the rest of the world is thinking about starting things anew, the school year is in full swing, and in January we reflect on where we are in the current school year, and begin planning for the next school year.

The last calendar year was full of highlights for our Borderites. We saw students compete at the state level in basketball, wrestling and swimming, as well as academically in chess, knowledge bowl and technology (Technology Students Association). Our student musicians were not to be outdone, with spectacular showings at the San Juan Music Educators Association competitions. We held commencement for the

graduating class of 2022 in June and welcomed a brand new class of little Borderites to campus –the class of 2035 – in August. We look forward to graduation for the class of 2023 in June.

Last year, I wrote to you about the work we had been doing around the focus of positive student outcomes through collaboration and instruction. This year we have continued to engage in work that ensures a guaranteed and viable curriculum is implemented in all classrooms. We have continued our professional learning in the areas of social emotional needs of students and staff, and done meaningful work in regard to educational equality, asking not only, “What can we do for our students?” but also, “What perspectives should we consider?” This work began in the summer and led to an intentional decision to frame our work and success for each student, each day. All of this work must remain ongoing and ever evolving in order for it to be

impactful, and we are committed to keep this at the forefront of our decision-making.

As we look ahead to 2023-24, we have a tremendous amount of work to consider for the future of our district and its students, staff, families and community. We hope that as many of you as possible will engage in collaborative opportunities to inform our decision-making processes. One of these opportunities will come later this month with a request for volunteers to serve on a Superintendent’s Advisory Committee. Watch for my weekly community newsletter on our website for details.

On behalf of the board of directors and the entire Blaine school district staff, we would like to take this opportunity to thank the collective communities of Point Roberts, Birch Bay and Blaine for your support in making great things happen for all students. We wish you all the best in the year to come.

2022 year in REVIEW County Executive’s Office

B y s atpal s I d H u , county execut I ve

We began 2022 in flood recovery mode and ended the year with a flood watch on the Nooksack River and localized flooding along coastal areas throughout the county, as nature again reminded us of the risks associated with living in close proximity to water. Thankfully, damage from the king tides and storm surges was largely superficial, and the Birch Bay berm performed well. Whatcom County is assessing the damage from these recent events, and I will continue to work with state and federal partners to build community resil-

ience to severe weather events.

The past year was a time of reflection, planning and action. As we learned to live with Covid-19, our eyes turned toward long-standing concerns. Whatcom County adopted a budget that expands the number of sheriff deputies by approximately 10 percent, creates new capacity to respond to people experiencing mental health crises, invests in broadband infrastructure in rural communities and bolsters our flood preparedness.

The county is also preparing to make significant capital investments in new facilities. Postponed investments are mounting, future construction costs are increasing

and the public is being poorly served by our antiquated facilities, such as the county jail. This past year we engaged in extensive outreach efforts to gather public input and assess our community’s needs. I anticipate this will culminate in 2023 with a request to voters to consider funding for a new public safety and justice facility.

Last year, we said goodbye to ArriveCAN and hello to many friends and family members who live across the border. I am thankful for being able to gather once again, and my wish for all the people of Whatcom County is the opportunity to spend quality time with those you love in the New Year.

2022 year in REVIEW Pacific Arts Association

B y B ryan J o H nson , pres I dent

2022 was a year of rebound from Covid-19 for the Pacific Arts Association. Our major event, the Blaine Harbor Music Festival and Jazz Camp, returned in July as a live session after a two years of closure because of Covid -19.

We started 2021 with high hopes of being able to present a “normal” summer camp, but these dreams were soon overtaken by the reality that Covid-19 had not disappeared sufficiently. We made a tough decision to cancel early in the year and began planning for 2022. Fortunately, many of our faculty members had become techno-wizards having mastered the intricacies of teaching via Zoom and other virtual platforms. That gave us the

ability to offer a “virtual” camp in 2021 that was a definite success.

Using the framework developed in 2021, we committed ourselves to having a live camp during 2022. The enthusiasm of our teachers, under the leadership of Nick Biello, for this decision was remarkable. This choice was the right one, and we welcomed 38 campers for a week of fun and challenging instruction. Four new gifted teachers joined our staff, and the support that we received from the Blaine community was inspiring and deeply appreciated.

We ended 2022 with a joyous community Christmas concert at Blaine Community Pavilion. Nick and Charlie Porter were joined by a significant number of our campers in a rousing tribute to the holidays and to our comeback year.

The fall has been spent in cre-

ating and refining our programs, developing fresh marketing materials and starting a robust and innovative student recruiting program. We are getting ready for July, so keep your vaccinations and boosters current, and we will look forward to seeing you at the 2023 Blaine Harbor Music Festival and Camp.

s Nick Biello performs at Blaine Harbor Music Festival and Jazz Camp in 2022. Photo by Georgia Costa

spOrts

Sports roundup: Borderites continue winning run against Trojans

B y I an H aupt

Blaine boys basketball is hot right now.

With multiple returning starters from last year’s team, which took Blaine to the state tournament for the first time in over a decade, another good season could’ve been expected. The Borderites, after narrowly losing their first game of the season 61-59 against

King’s High School, are on a 10game win streak heading into the second half of the season. In conference, they are 7-0 with seven games left.

The Blaine boys took a commanding 78-55 win over Meridian High School Tuesday night in the Blaine High School gymnasium.

Starting strong, the Borderites had nearly a 20-point lead early into the second quarter. The Trojans

gained some momentum before halftime, making it a 13-point game and keeping Blaine honest. But the Borderites shooting and passing game was too much.

Senior Lucas Smith led Blaine in scoring with 20 points on the night, including four three-pointers. Junior Noah Tavis finished with 17 points and seniors Ethan Koreski and Mathew Russ had 15 and 12 points.

Next, the Borderites have a tough game at home Thursday, January 12 against Lynden High School, a team that is also 7-0 in conference. Blaine will then travel to Mount Baker Monday, January 16. Both games are at 7:15 p.m. Girls basketball

The Lady Borderites picked up their first conference win of the season at home January 5 against Sedro-Woolley. Blaine

beat the Cubs 58-42. The team lost 60-39 to the Meridian Trojans January 10.

Blaine will travel to Lynden Thursday, January 12 and host Mount Baker Monday, January 16. Both games are at 7:15 p.m.

The girls are 3-9 so far this season and 1-7 in conference.

Wrestling

The boys wrestling team competed at the multi-school Everett Classic tournament in Everett this past weekend. The boys have a conference meet against Mount Baker and Ferndale starting at 6 p.m. Thursday, January 12 at Mount Baker High School. The team will compete at the Island Invitational Saturday, January 14 at Bainbridge High School.

The girls wrestling team competed last at Squalicum High School January 10 against Anacortes and Bellingham United Wrestling.

The multi-school Borderite Blizzard Tournament is this weekend in the Blaine High School gymnasium starting 10 a.m. Saturday, January 14.

Girls bowling

Blaine girls bowling team will compete next against Mount Vernon 3 p.m. Tuesday, January 17 at Riverside Lanes in Mount Vernon. Post-season competition starts 1 p.m. Tuesday, January 24 at Riverside Lanes.

Year in Review ...

From page 3

in her Hurricane Mills, Tennessee home on October 4. She was 90.

• Birch Bay beekeeper Ruthie Danielsen presented at the Smithsonian Natural History Museum about citizen scientists’ efforts to eradicate the northern giant hornet in Whatcom County.

• The city of Blaine, Blaine Chamber of Commerce and Drayton Harbor Oyster Company hosted the first Blaine Oyster Festival on October 8. The festival had a successful turnout with thousands in attendance for oyster contests, cooking demonstrations, live music, family games and oyster farm tours.

• County council established a racial equity commission to address the racial equity priorities.

• Community Assistance Program kept local families warm during the winter as it distributed clothing from its annual coat drive.

• Birch Bay Water and Sewer District finished installing nearly $2 million of automated water meters that quickly detect leaks and give more accurate readings.

• A Blaine couple posted a $1,000 reward for a potential cat killer after neighbors, social media posts and rumors circulated about missing and deceased cats.

• City council approved the police department’s request to use $41,000 of federal Covid-19 stimulus to purchase ballistic shields and helmets.

• The Whatcom Working Wa-

terfront Foundation held its first class for the Northwest Maritime Apprenticeship program.

• Peace Arch Provincial Park reopened October 24 after being closed for nearly 2.5 years because of Covid-19 concerns.

• A school survey showed Blaine educators felt better prepared for the school year than they had in 2021.

• Blaine Community Theater put on its first full performance since the pandemic with “Wyrd Sisters.”

• Blaine school board member Todd Nunamaker announced his resignation from the district 1 position due to health challenges.

• PeaceHealth began allowing up to two visitors at its Whatcom County medical facilities as Covid-19 cases declined.

• The 2022 Whatcom County Buildable Lands Report showed Birch Bay’s population and housing development were growing slower than projected.

• City council approved new voting ward boundaries that needed to be updated after the latest U.S. Census was released.

• City council appointed seven members to its ad hoc downtown advisory committee that will look at downtown policy and code changes.

• Blaine and Birch Bay went big for Halloween. Birch Bay Chamber of Commerce’s Trick-or-Treat on the Berm saw a successful second year with thousands of children in attendance, and the Freeman’s house was a Blaine hit with its Harry Potter themed carnival. November

• The Port of Bellingham received $3.36 million from the Washington State Department of Ecology to partly pay for petroleum cleanup at the old Sea K Fish property.

• Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 9474 and American Legion Post 86 honored those who have served during the Veterans Day tribute on November 11.

• Democrats swept the 42nd Legislative District races with Sharon Shewmake (D-Bellingham) closely beating Simon Sefzik (R-Ferndale) for the state senate seat.

Alicia Rule (D-Blaine) and Joe Timmons (D-Bellingham) won the state representative seats. Voters approved the EMS levy increase and children’s initiative levy lid lift.

• Blaine freshman Hailey Ferrell won first and third place in the 50- and 500-meter freestyle races at the girls 2A state swim and dive championships in Federal Way.

• Jay Dodd stepped down as Blaine High School football coach after 17 years of leading the team and four state championship tournaments.

• Blaine High School theater students put on their first in-person performance since the pandemic with the Disney’s “The Little Mermaid” musical.

• Community Assistance Program volunteers served 1,250 community members with their Thanksgiving baskets.

• Blaine elementary and primary students collected thousands of pounds of food during a successful food drive.

• As of November, Blaine school district’s enrollment was 52 stu-

dents below what it budgeted for the 2022-23 school year.

December

• Holiday Harbor Lights celebrated the holiday season with allday events including the Holiday Lights Obstacle Dash, Blaine Library book sale, vendor market, Christmas tree lighting and meetand-greet with Santa Claus.

• Blaine’s border economy was experiencing a mixed recovery after the U.S./Canada border reopened. The city’s sales tax receipts seemed to be rebounding, although they were still below 2019 numbers. The city’s gas tax revenue, however, remained down 74 percent in the first three quarters of 2022, compared to 2019.

• Blaine police chief Donnell Tanksley announced he would run for Whatcom County Sheriff in 2023.

• As respiratory viruses surged, Whatcom County Health Department asked people to mask indoors.

• Community Assistance Program held its annual Community Toy Store for families to purchase presents at a discounted price. The community donated about 1,500 gifts for over 250 children.

• No northern giant hornets were found in east Blaine, or elsewhere in North America, in 2022.

• Pacific Arts Association held a Christmas concert with saxophonist Nick Biello and trumpeter Charlie Porter.

• Blaine Community Theater brought “Hard-Boiled Eggnog: A Christmas Noir” to the center stage.

• The city’s planning commission held a well-attended public hear-

ing on a proposed zoning text amendment that would allow large manufactured home parks in east Blaine. Planning commission tabled its vote until 2023 after residents raised concerns on the amendment.

• City council approved Michael Harmon’s employment contract as the next city manager. Harmon was the chief operating officer of an electric utility provider in Wyoming and former city administrator of Spearfish, South Dakota.

• The historic Plover passenger ferry was undergoing repairs, the most extensive in over 25 years, to make it seaworthy by spring.

• Drayton Harbor Oyster Company co-owner Mark Seymour presented to city council an idea to build an ecotourism platform on Blaine’s marine waterfront through a marine science center and ecotourism tours.

• City council approved an $80,000 feasibility study for the Bell Road grade separation project to create an overpass at Bell Road and Peace Portal Drive.

• City council delayed approving its downtown revitalization project contract, originally put before them in September, to gain a better understanding of the project’s budget and necessary items.

• Blue Wolf Capital Partners, the private equity firm that was attempting to restart the Alcoa Intalco smelter in Ferndale, ended energy contract negotiations with Bonneville Power Administration.

s Lawrence Creasey Pulphus lays it up in the Borderites win over the Trojans Tuesday night in the Blaine High School gymnasium. Photo by Ian Haupt

s Noah Tavis shoots a layup in Blaine boys basketball 78-55 win over Meridian High School January 10. Photo by Ian Haupt

Active S eniors

Five things we learned about Alzheimer’s disease in 2022

2022 was a productive and promising year for Alzheimer’s research, including discoveries related to the causes, risk factors and treatment of Alzheimer’s disease and other dementias. Here are five important things we learned about Alzheimer’s in 2022:

1. Alzheimer’s treatments are getting better. In November, pharmaceutical companies Eisai and Biogen announced positive results from their global phase 3 clinical trial of an Alzheimer’s drug called lecanemab, slowing the rate of cognitive decline in study participants by 27 percent over 18 months. These are the most encouraging results we have seen to date for an Alzheimer’s treatment. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) gave an accelerated approval on January 6, making lecanemab the second FDA-approved drug in 18 months that changes the course of Alzheimer’s disease.

Joel Loiacono, Alzheimer’s Association’s regional director based in Spokane, told The Northern Light he’s seeing increased progress with multiple medications after 25 years in the field. Although these medications aren’t a total cure, he said they’re a step forward.

“The tunnel is getting really bright right now,” he said. “In 1997, there were only a couple of medications.”

2. A daily multivitamin may slow brain aging. Research published in September in Alzheimer’s & Dementia: The Journal of the Alzheimer’s Association found that taking a multivitamin-mineral supplement every day for three years resulted in a statistically significant cognitive benefit. This is the first positive, large-scale, long-term study to show that multivitamin-mineral supplementation for older adults may slow cognitive aging. With confirmation through research, these promising findings have the

potential to significantly impact public health – improving brain health, lowering health care costs and reducing caregiver burden –especially among older adults.

3. Frozen pizza, candy and soda may raise the risk of cognitive decline. At the Alzheimer’s Association International Conference (AAIC) last summer, new research results found that eating a large amount of ultra-processed food can significantly accelerate cognitive decline. The research was then published in JAMA Neurology in December. Ultra-processed foods make up more than half of U.S. diets. The good news is there are steps we can take to reduce risk of cognitive decline as we age. These include eating a balanced diet, exercising regularly, getting good sleep, staying cognitively engaged, protecting from head injury, not smoking and managing heart health.

“It’s really important to take care of your body, your brain and your heart in particular,” Loiacono said.

4. Experiencing racism is linked to poor memory. Also at

I grew up in Bellingham, attended public schools and graduated from Bellingham High School and then attended Western Washington University. While my profession became teaching my dream was to travel. I received a Fulbright Teacher Exchange opportunity and spent a year in an English Girls’ School in Newcastle England. I then attended Columbia University in New York City and received a master’s degree. I was offered a supervisory position with the military schools in Europe. I really enjoyed the opportunity to travel throughout Europe with that position. My desire for more education brought me back to New York where I received a doctorate degree in education and eventually taught at the City University of New York. At that time, I was invited to be an international representative (NGO) at the United Nations and participated in other organizations relating to women and children such as UNICEF. After my return to Bellingham I grew tired of cooking and housekeeping so I made a decision to move to Solstice Independent Living. After 12 years, I have made no plans to move.

AAIC 2022, researchers reported that experiences of structural, interpersonal and institutional racism are associated with lower memory scores and worse cognition in midlife and old age, especially among Black individuals. These data are especially important given Black Americans are about twice as likely, and Hispanic Americans are about 1.5 times as likely, to have Alzheimer’s or other dementias according to the 2022 Alzheimer’s Disease Facts and Figures report.

5. Wearing hearing aids may reduce risk of dementia. Individuals with hearing loss who used hearing restorative devices had a 19 percent decrease in risk of long-term cognitive decline, according to research published in December in JAMA Neurology. These data appeared five months after the FDA announced it will allow hearing aids to be sold over the counter, greatly expanding access to 30 million U.S. residents living with hearing loss. In addition to improving daily communication, use of hearing aids may also benefit brain health.

While advancements continue, Alzheimer’s remains an impactful disease. Over a recent 20-year

period, deaths from heart disease went down 7.3 percent, while deaths from Alzheimer’s increased 145 percent. In 2022, Alzheimer’s and other dementias will cost the nation $321 billion.

With several FDA decisions expected on Alzheimer’s treatments in 2023, this is a very exciting time in the fight to end this disease. Thanks to increased research funding from the federal government and nonprofit organizations there is great hope and the new year is sure to bring more advances and discoveries

for people living with, and at risk for, Alzheimer’s disease and all other dementia.

Loiacono encourages anyone impacted by dementia to reach out for support. Each county in Washington has an agency on aging and the Alzheimer’s Association offers in-person and remote support groups that people can join, regardless whether the group is in their area.

“Knowledge is power. Becoming educated will help with your stress level and will make your day easier as a caregiver,” he said. “You have people out there who have already taken this journey and will help you through the pitfalls and make you have more quality interactions with your loved ones.”

People looking to get involved in the Alzheimer’s Association can also participate in the organization’s annual Walk to End Alzheimer’s.

For more information, visit the Alzheimer’s Association’s website at alz.org/alzwa. The association also has a free, 24/7 helpline at 800/272-3900 where specialists and clinicians with master’s degrees offer support to people living with dementia, caregivers and loved ones.

Courtesy of the Washington state chapter of the Alzheimer’s Association

s The 2022 Walk to End Alzheimer’s in Bellingham.

Photo courtesy Alzheimer’s Association, Washington state chapter

s Participants in the Walk to End Alzheimer’s in Bellingham in September 2022. Photo courtesy Alzheimer’s Association, Washington state chapter

Silverado to host dementia classes at Blaine Library

Blaine Library will host Silverado Bellingham Memory Care Community’s dementia education series for Blaine residents who want to learn more about caring for a loved one with impaired memory. The three-part series will be offered Thursday evenings at Blaine Library, 610 3rd Street, starting January 19 and Thursday

afternoons starting February 16.

“We’re trying to create awareness about the diseases and how people can compassionately communicate and understand the behaviors that come with the disease,” said Silverado community ambassador Rosalee Ronquillo.

The first class, “Dementia 101,” will cover types of dementia and

focus on how Alzheimer’s disease impacts an individual’s functions and mental abilities. The second class, “Understanding Behaviors,” will go over common behaviors associated with dementia. The final class, “Virtual Dementia Tour,” will show what someone with dementia experiences every day.

Ronquillo said the classes will

allow attendees to learn more about dementia than they would from a brief doctor’s visit. For additional Whatcom County resources, Ronquillo suggests the Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office’s Project Lifesaver, which offers a tracking device for people with dementia, and Northwest Regional Council.

The evening classes will be offered 5:30 p.m. January 19, January 26 and February 2. The afternoon classes will be offered 1 p.m. February 16, February 12 and March 2.

For more information, call Silverado at 360/746-6675 or email Rosalee Ronquillo at rronquillo@ silverado.com

New Year’s resolutions for seniors

Resolutions can be made at any age. Seniors who may feel that they are past the point in life where trying something new or setting goals is relevant to them can reconsider, as it’s never too late in life to have aspirations big or small.

The golden years may be different from any other period in a person’s life, but seniors can still embrace making positive changes. In fact, according to studies by Rush University, people who view life with a sense of purpose are two to four times less likely to develop Alzheimer’s disease. The following are some potential resolutions for seniors.

• Focus on safety. Aging sparks certain changes to the body and mind. Recognizing that you can’t do all of the things you did when you were younger doesn’t mean there aren’t ways to improve upon those things you can do, especially if you make some safety-minded tweaks. Resolve to improve home safety, such as removing tripping hazards, installing grab bars, checking smoke alarms and installing a security system.

• Find new and enjoyable workouts. The exercise routines you engaged in just a few years ago

may no longer suit your physical abilities or interests. Investigate new fitness regimens or methods of movement. Tai chi, yoga, water aerobics, walking clubs and more can be incorporated into your daily habits.

• Organize medical records. Seeing health pictured systematically and clearly can help you stay on top of appointments and wellness measures. There are many different organizing systems to embrace; find one that works for your needs.

• Declutter your home. Resolve to get rid of extraneous items that are no longer serving a purpose beyond collecting dust. Having more room to move around can be safer, particularly if you need a cane or another assistive device,

and there will be less to clean if you remove some clutter. If you plan to downsize soon, clearing clutter can make the move easier.

• Learn something new. A language, skill or hobby are all within reach when you map out the steps to achieving your goal.

• Make new social connections. Caring Places senior communities indicates socially active older adults have better cognition and lower risks for depression than those who do not consistently reach out to friends. Aspire to make some new companions or to get back in touch with those you haven’t spoken to in some time.

Seniors can focus on key resolutions to make positive changes for the future.

s Silverado will hold classes on dementia education at the Blaine Library, 610 3rd Street.

File photo

SHOP, EAT AND READ LOCAL

2022 year in REVIEW Blaine Food Bank

The Waterford crystal-laden ball in Times Square had barely touched the bottom, officially ringing in the first of 2022 celebrations across the country and filling everyone with hope and possibility for a new beginning, when it all began.

As we inched out of the confines of the pandemic, food banks everywhere went from Covid to chaos to crisis. We simultaneously faced an unanticipated end to federal relief efforts, persistent supply shortages, shipping delays, higher prices for food and fuel, decreased food rescue and donation resources and more and more families seeking our help. Every distribution we feared running out of protein, milk and eggs. Like the folks we help, our cupboards were bare, and with increased costs for food and fuel, the funds donated through our 2021 matching funds campaign would not see us through the year.

Once again, this amazing community was our lifeline. A handful of regular dedicated donors, the city of Blaine, social organizations and golf tournaments held on our behalf by the ‘Good Ol’ Boys’ and the ‘Goof Offers’ pulled us through. Thank you all.

Our volunteers are truly amazing. This is the third winter they

have worked outside with very little cover. They have endured rain, snow, wind and stifling heat in service to others. In 2022, our crew collected and distributed 1.4 million pounds of food, served 12,000 families or 33,000 individuals, made 1,300 home deliveries and provided weekend meals for 2,100 school children. Our volunteers come face-to-face with hunger every day. Their dedication and commitment is unmatched, and in my mind, they are true heroes.

We are so looking forward to 2023. The new distribution center will break ground in the spring thanks to the generosity of Northwood Chapel for donating land for green space, an anonymous donor who funded 75 percent of the project and the perseverance and expertise of our volunteer Cliff Freeman. We had hoped to be inside this winter, and could have started construction in November, but that would have put us outdoors, without any shelter during the winter months. The tent has served us well for three years, but we are so anxious to welcome folks into our new indoor market.

We will welcome the New Year with renewed hope for better times for everyone and with determination to remain dedicated and steadfast in our effort to change hunger to hope for struggling individuals and families.

2022 year in REVIEW Blaine Library

Blaine Library has been busy the past year. We are on pace to see a 50 percent increase in library visitors over 2021. One reason for this is the return of programs and events.

In the spring, we started moving together with a running club, summer saw the return of the ever-popular Blaine CORE gardening series and fall brought community conversations. In July, Blaine hosted Whatcom County Library System’s Pride in the Park event, which was a wonderfully received family event honoring the diversity of our community. Summer also saw the long-awaited return of Story Time with Ms. Marie – it’s heart-warming to see so many excited kids visit each week.

Another reason folks flocked to the library was for help from our friendly and supportive staff. Homework help, research, tech support and reading recommendations are but a few of the things we help with on a daily basis. Staff rescued countless travelers beset with ArriveCAN woes, and with the border reopening, we saw a large uptick in new and returning cross-border visitors.

Once here, users found a place to read, relax, learn, connect and find creative inspiration. Each

month patrons discovered a new take-home kid’s craft kit thoughtfully designed by Kelly. Likewise, visitors were treated to a rotating exhibition of local artists’ work as part of a collaboration with the Blaine Arts Council.

The library is grateful for the tremendous community support we’ve received this year. Adult and teen volunteers returned to graciously give their time and energy. The Friends of the Blaine Library worked tirelessly to champion the Blaine Library Building Project and raised support through their annual book sales.

Blaine Library looks forward to 2023 as we strive to foster community connections, provide a variety of new and exciting programs and events, and help with all your information needs.

B y s ally c H urc H , operat I ons M ana G er

B y J onat H an J ako BI tz , B ranc H M ana G er

s Jonathan Jakobitz in Blaine Library. Photo by Georgia Costa

IN THE SUPERIOR COURT OF THE STATE OF WASHINGTON IN AND FOR THE COUNTY OF Whatcom In Re the Estate of Charlene Ambrose, Deceased. NO. 22-4-00692-37. PROBATE NOTICE TO CREDITORS. (RCW 11.40.030) JUDGE: David E. Freeman

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: January 5, 2023

Personal Representative: Craige Ambrose 786 Valley Hwy Acme, WA 98220

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. 22-4-00692-37

SUPERIOR COURT OF WASHINGTON, COUNTY OF WHATCOM, DENNIS COHOE, Plaintiff, vs. TANA DASILVA, Defendant, And CALIBER HOME LOANS, Statutory Defendant. No. 222-01147-37. SUMMONS SERVED BY PUBLICATION (SMPB) To the Defendant Tana DaSilva:

You are hereby summoned to appear within sixty days after the date of the first publication of this summons, to wit, within sixty days after the 8th day of December 2022, and defend the above entitled action in the above entitled court, and answer the complaint of the plaintiff Dennis Cohoe, and serve a copy of your answer upon the undersigned attorneys for plaintiff, Casie C. Rodenberger, at her office below stated; and in case of your failure so to do, judgment will be rendered against you according to the demand of the complaint, which has been filed with the clerk of said court.

The Plaintiff has filed a Partition Complaint which requests Declaratory Relief regarding the shared house, alleges Unjust Enrichment; Unlawful Conversion; and Trespass to Chattel/Intentional interference with Property

This summons is issued pursuant to Superior Court Civil Rule 4 of the state of Washington.

File original of your response with the clerk of the court at:

Whatcom County Superior Court 311 Grand Avenue, 3rd Floor Bellingham, WA 98225 Serve a copy of your response on: Casie C. Rodenberger Whatcom Law Group, P.S. 289 H Street, Suite A/PO Box 1258 Blaine, WA 98231

IN THE SUPERIOR COURT OF THE STATE OF WASHINGTON IN AND FOR THE COUNTY OF WHATCOM In the matter of the Estate of HARRY MAXMILLAN POLLARD, Deceased. No. 22-4-01234-37. PROBATE NOTICE TO CREDITORS. (RCW 11.40.030) JUDGE LEE GROCHMAL

The Personal Representative named below has been appointed as Personal Representative of the above estate. Any person having a claim against the deceased HARRY MAXMILLAN POLLARD 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 OF NOTICE TO CREDITORS WITH CLERK OF THE COURT: December 28, 2022

DATE OF FIRST PUBLICATION: January 12, 2023

PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE: SUSAN MARY POLLARD

ATTORNEY FOR PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE: Mark W. Stowe, WSBA #16655

ADDRESS FOR MAILING OR SERVICE: Mark W. Stowe, Attorney 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 28th day of December 2022.

STOWE LAW PLLC: Mark W. Stowe, WSBA# 16655 Attorney for Personal Representative

Legal

IN THE SUPERIOR COURT OF THE STATE OF WASHINGTON IN AND FOR THE COUNTY OF Whatcom In Re the Estate of Milton E. Houser, Deceased. NO. 22 4 01164 37. PROBATE NOTICE TO CREDITORS. (RCW 11.40.030) JUDGE: Robert E. Olson

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: January 12, 2023

Personal Representative: Michael L. Houser 40531 145th Pl. SE Gold Bar, WA 98251-9512

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. 22 4 01164 37

IN THE SUPERIOR COURT FOR THE STATE OF WASHINGTON, KING COUNTY Estate of WILLIAM BRADLEY JOHNSON, Deceased. Case No. 22-4-08485-2 SEA.

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.

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: December 16, 2022 with Clerk of Court: Date of First Publication: January 5, 2023

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: December 16, 2022

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

Attorney for Administrator: CINDY MAXWELL www.averyelderlaw.com

IN THE SUPERIOR COURT OF THE STATE OF WASHINGTON IN AND FOR WHATCOM COUNTY In re the Estate of: ROBERT DAVID BULLIVANT, Deceased. No. 22-4-01200-37 NOTICE TO CREDITORS.

Judge David E. Freeman

The Personal Representative named below has been appointed and has qualified 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 probated 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 Filing of Notice to Creditors: December 16, 2022 with Clerk of Court:

Date of First Publication: January 5, 2023

Name of Personal Representative: GORDON JAMES BULLIVANT

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: December 16, 2022.

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

Attorney for Personal Representative: GORDON JAMES BULLIVANT

IN THE SUPERIOR COURT OF THE STATE OF WASHINGTON IN AND FOR WHATCOM COUNTY In re the Estate of: JOHN CORBETT LEEDS III, Deceased. No. 224-01192-37. NOTICE TO CREDITORS. Judge Robert E. Olson

course from the elevated backyard covered deck plus filtered views of Drayton Harbor & Canadian Mtns. Greatroom features vaulted ceiling, gas fireplace, hardwood flooring & lots of natural light w/doors to deck. High-end kitchen appl, wine fridge, oversized refrig/freezer, wall & walk-in pantries & large quartz island. Spacious primary bedrm with dramatic tile details in bathrm

Randy Weg 360.305.5704

Birch Point Road

MLS #2024189 $1,500,000 Looking for a private retreat to call your own?

no further than this stunning 4.5 acre +/- high bank waterfront property. With 325 feet of premier southern sun exposure, you’ll be able to soak up the sun and enjoy breathtaking views of the island and Olympic mountains, as well as the shipping lanes. This property is truly a one-of-a-kind oasis, offering you the opportunity to escape the hustle and bustle of daily life and retreat to your own personal paradise.

Brian Southwick 360.815.6638

5375 Nootka Loop

MLS #1983680 $1,399,000

Rare opportunity to realize your dream of a beautiful waterfront home in a fun community. It shows as new! This is one of Birch Bay Village’s prime saltwater locations w/ breathtaking panoramic view of the Bay & Mt. Baker. 24/7 manned security offers incomparable peace of mind when home or away. Short walk to amenities including golf, marina, pickle ball, clubhouse & more. Minutes to U.S./Canada border & under 2 hrs. to Seattle. This home is turnkey

Lisa Kent 360.594.8034

Nootka Loop

MLS #2008787 $499,000

One of few remaining low-bank waterfront lots in Birch Bay Village. Property backs directly onto beach with spectacular views of the bay and Mt Baker. Recent Topographic Survey shows level site with 60.2 ft of beachfront. Sale also includes completed Cultural Resources/Archaeology Report, & Tsunami Hazard Report with Ordinary HighWater Mark. Comprehensive info to expedite your development process. Water, sewer, electricity, & nat gas available in street.

Matt Berry 360.389.0104

8297

Shintaffer Road

MLS #2026346 $565,000

This lovely home sits on 1/2acre with beautiful views of the water in Birch Bay.

This 1610 sqft home features a nice kitchen, dining area and very large living room with lots of windows to let natural light come into the room, cozy fireplace, 3 bedrooms, 1.5 bathrooms and laundry room too. Great location. Come take a look!

Lisa Sprague 360.961.0838

7954 Birch Bay Dr #38

MLS #2006209 $150,000

Affordable beach front living! Welcome to this cozy cottage in Birch Bay w/Panoramic views of the ocean. Light & bright all around with vaulted ceilings and skylights. Ample cabinets throughout in excellent condition. Original, clean and comfortable, custom furniture, all appliances, new furnace, and mounted TV w/surround sound included in sale. Added guest bedroom has separate entrance & bunkbeds. Large covered patio is perfect for hosting BBQs with friends.

Lesha Hutchison 360.510.0640

While retaining its vintage flair, this 4 bedroom/1.75 bathroom charmer features vaulted ceilings, a cozy fireplace & an adaptable floor plan with separate living room & bonus spaces. Primary suite features ensuite bathroom & private, direct access to the sunroom & backyard. 9K+ square foot lot backs to the golf course with stunning mountain views & fenced backyard!

Jen Freeman 360.815.0803

5486

community.

throughout w/ craftsman quality woodwork & dramatic open plan. Huge owner’s suite above the oversize garage. rich tilework, chef’s kitchen w/large dining space, hardwood floors, separate family & living rooms, gas fireplaces...& list goes on. Enjoy 2 sundecks.

Mike Kent 360.815.3898

7704 Birch Bay Drive #49-7

MLS #1995714 $135,000

Enjoy this light and bright park model, in the popular beachfront community of Leisure Park. This will be the most reasonable vacation property you will find in Birch Bay, from location to amenities & low costs. The peaceful neighborhood which features open green space, a clubhouse, tennis courts, a playground, and outdoor pool. This 385 SF, 1BD, 1 BA well-maintained park model, carpeted covered deck, and storage shed, facing south ensuring ample sunlight.

Jessica Bates 360.410.0900

546 N Harvey Road

MLS #1992401 $575,000

Your own private orchard acre and a half beautifully landscaped with a variety of fruit trees and great expansive yard. The home is over 2900 square feet and requires some deferred maintenance remedied and some cosmetic repairs. What a fantastic opportunity to live on a dead-end street with room around you enjoy. There are both a 624 square foot 2 car garage and a 308 square foot one car garage on the property. Rare large home on small acreage near Blaine.

Greg Flint 360.220.0551

8617 Blue Grouse Way

MLS #1976568 $649,700

Delightful 3 bedroom/2 bathroom Craftsman in the sought after gated community of Semiahmoo, welcome to Blue Grouse Way! Vaulted ceilings, no steps + the must have open concept Great Room design popular with the modern buyer. Flexible floor plan with separate living & family rooms, office nook + high speed internet allows for easy work from home scenario. Two car attached garage, two covered patios & private, mature landscaping creates ideal setting.

Leah Crews 360.305.4747

9499 Semiahmoo Pkwy #B-10A

MLS #2020317 $750,000

This waterfront two-story condo is located on Semiahmoo Spit, in the gated Beachwalker Villas Community. Walls of windows with breathtaking views of Semiahmoo Bay draw you in from the moment you walk through the door. You’ll love spending time here with the updated gas fireplace, and an open main living area for easy entertaining. Upstairs you’ll find the full primary suite with a duplicate view, a 2nd bedroom with its own full bathroom and balcony.

Brandi Coplen 360.201.3951

2022 year in REVIEW

Friends of Birch Bay Library

B y d I anne M arrss MI t H , pres I dent

The Friends of Birch Bay Library appreciate all our community support in 2022.

We had a bumpy start to the year with our failed Library Capital Facility Area (LCFA) campaign. With 59 percent of our community voting ‘yes’ for the LCFA twice (we needed 60 percent to win the election), it was very clear that the Birch Bay community supported and wanted a library.

Whatcom County Library System (WCLS) and the Friends took time to scale down our project. That modification led to a smaller library express option that would use the first floor of the existing building. This would allow for holds pick up, a micro collection and meeting room space. WCLS sent a scope of work change to the Department of Commerce to see if this new plan would be approved, allowing us to keep our $2 million state appropriation. We hope to find out that decision soon.

Our summer and fall fundraising was amazing. We enjoyed hosting Birch Bay Chamber of Commerce community events again this year. We grilled hot dogs and hamburgers, sold books and had great conversations with our community and Birch Bay visitors. We want to give a huge shout out to Birch Bay Realty for their year-long contribution to us. Together, with our fundraising and their contributions, we added $10,000 to our library building project in September.

Our 2023 Birch Bay calendars are ready for purchase. This year, community members sent in some great pictures and added quotes on why they love Birch Bay. The cost is $25 and you can get one by contacting Di Marrs-Smith at fobblpresident@gmail.com.

We look forward to 2023; continuing to advocate for a library in Birch Bay, seeing you out at community events and raising money for the library project.

OBITUARIES

Earl Thomas Ball

January 5, 1936 – November 19, 2022

Earl T. Ball, 86, passed away to his eternal resting place November 19, 2022 at the Whatcom Hospice House in Bellingham. He was born in Stanley, ND in a tar paper shack on January 5, 1936 to George and Esther Ball. He said he was born on the coldest day on record in North Dakota, 62 degrees below zero. He was the youngest of four children. Preceded in death by his parents; George and Esther Ball; his brothers, Robert and Donald Ball; his sister Beverly Rugland; brother-in-law Gordon Rugland and sister-in-law Gemma Ball.

He attended Clearwater one room country schoolhouse through eighth grade, then he attended Stanley High School.

He joined the U.S. Army at age 17 and was sent to electronics school in Georgia. He served in Korea working as a radio repairman. He also served in the U.S. Air Force. After he received an honorable discharge from the service, he went to work for the Martin Company out of Orlando, FL, for whom he installed missile sites. He later worked for the Boeing Company in Seattle, in the nuclear physics group.

After Boeing, he transitioned to the private sector owning eight laundromats and dry cleaners. During his time in Seattle, he bought a plane and enjoyed flying.

In Seattle, he met his wife Beatrice Mae Mohr and they were married June 10, 1972. They had one daughter Lisa Ann Ball.

In 1987 they bought an RV park overlooking Birch Bay. They have owned and operated Ball Bay View RV Park for over 35 years. They became active in the Birch Bay Chamber of Commerce, where he served as president for many years.

After their daughter graduated from Blaine High School, they went south for the winter months becoming “snowbirds” at Leisure World in Mesa, AZ. While in Arizona he enjoyed attending jam sessions. He also enjoyed traveling; together they visited over 36 countries.

Earl was a very hard working and honest man. If someone was in need, he would be right there to help. He was also a caring husband and loving father.

Earl is survived by his wife Beatrice; daughters Gretchen Ball and Lisa Ann Bailey; son-in-law James B. Bailey; granddaughter I’Lee Bailey; and grandson Ty Bailey. He is missed by family and friends.

You may share your memories at www.westfordfuneralhome.com.

Danny Ray Jones

July 16, 1950 – January 2, 2023

It is with deepest sadness that we announce the passing of Danny Ray Jones on January 2, 2023. Danny fought a long difficult battle with COPD. At the time of his passing Danny was 72 years old. There will be a small informal celebration of life on Saturday January 14, 2–4 p.m., at the Blaine Harbor Boating Center, 235 Marine Drive, Blaine. The family is planning on a large family gathering in his honor in the summer in eastern Washington, time, and location to be determined and announced at a later time.

Danny was preceded in death by his parents Leo Jones and Pearl Dolan. Danny was from a large family and was also preceded in death by brothers Stanley, Larry Dale, Richard (Dick) and his sister Donna. Danny is survived by brothers Lyle (Bud) Jones, Bill Jones, Mike Jones and his sisters Judy Jones and Kathy Brasfield. With this large family, as one could imagine, there are numerous nieces and nephews, great nieces and nephews, cousins and such that will miss their Uncle Danny and his stories. He also leaves behind some wonderful friends which were such a blessing during the last years of his life. The family would like to recognize Jason Montgomery, Lillith Vine, Gabe Zamora, and Mary Lou Laraia for making such a difference in Danny’s life.

The family would also like to recognize the PeaceHealth palliative care team that worked with Danny. His nurse Dana was amazing with Danny and was a huge help to his family! There was nursing, financial help, spiritual care and a doctor who actually came to the apartment. Truly a blessing for Danny and his family. Thank you to the entire team.

Danny had a love for all things outer space and of the world’s mysteries, aliens, yeti, and the myths and legends of the universe. Documentaries on these subjects were a favorite to enjoy with friends. His sense of humor was contagious, and he will be deeply missed.

In lieu of flowers please consider a donation to your local food bank or your favorite charity.

Wade Steele

December 1930 - December 2022

In loving memory of Wade Steele, age 92, who passed away peacefully in Bellingham at PeaceHealth St. Joseph Hospital in December, 2022.

Wade was born in California and moved to Washington in 1968. Wade was a long time resident of Blaine and worked at Intalco for 28 years until his retirement. Wade was an accomplished country music performer and played in a variety of country bands throughout Whatcom County and the state of Washington. He especially loved performing at the senior centers of Whatcom County.

Wade is preceded in death by both of his parents. He is survived by his wife, Bertha; sister, Josie; brother, Sam; and children James, Joseph, Colin, Clayton, Nathan, Timothy, Paul, David, Kathleen; and many grandchildren.

A private memorial service will be held by the family later in the year to celebrate Wade’s life.

s Birch Bay library.

Photo by Grace McCarthy

Dec. 27, 3:22 p.m.: Harassment on Skeena Way.

Dec. 27, 5:23 p.m.: Motor vehicle accident on Harborview and Birch Bay-Lynden roads.

Dec. 28, 2:59 a.m.: Suspicious person on Drayton Harbor Road.

Dec. 28, 8:21 p.m.: Animal problem on Alderson Road.

Dec. 28, 9:10 p.m.: Mental health issue on Surf Place.

Dec. 28, 11:01 p.m.: Theft on Surf Place.

Dec. 29, 1:53 a.m.: Prowler on Delta Line Road, Custer.

Dec. 29, 4:27 a.m.: Motor vehicle accident on Haynie Road.

Dec. 29, 1:36 p.m.: Disorderly conduct on Sunburst Drive.

Dec. 30, 2:06 p.m.: Hazard on Seavue Road.

Dec. 30, 5:37 p.m.: Motor vehicle accident on Birch Bay-Lynden and Delta Line roads, Custer.

Dec. 30, 9:01 p.m.: Burglary on East Street.

Dec. 30, 9:20 p.m.: Domestic physical on Quinault Road.

Dec. 31, 12:11 p.m.: Trespass on Birch Bay-Square Street.

Dec. 31, 2:07 p.m.: Motor vehicle accident on Glendale Road, Custer.

Jan. 1, 12:50 a.m.: Fireworks on Loomis Trail Road.

Jan. 1, 2:33 a.m.: Overdose on Highland Drive.

Jan. 1, 9:07 a.m.: Shots on Main Street, Custer.

Jan. 1, 12:13 p.m.: Fight on Birch Bay Drive.

Jan. 1, 5:03 p.m.: Missing person on Birch Bay-Lynden Road, Custer.

Jan. 1, 8:42 p.m.: Liquor law violation on Birch Bay-Lynden Road. Jan. 2, 4:19 p.m.: Burglary on Birch Terrace Court, Custer. Jan. 2, 8:52 a.m.: Theft on Birch Bay Drive.

pOLiCe repOrts

Dec. 31, 12:15 a.m.: Traffic stop on Bell Road.

Dec. 31, 2:43 a.m.: Felony assault on Birch Court.

Dec. 31, 5:06 p.m.: Violations of no contact orders on 2nd Street.

Jan. 1, 7:55 a.m.: Juvenile problem on A Street.

Jan. 1, 10:43 a.m.: Drug paraphernalia on H Street.

Jan. 1, 12:39 p.m.: Possession of stolen vehicle on H Street.

Jan. 1, 1:40 p.m.: Verbal domestic violence on H Street.

Jan. 2, 12:50 p.m.: Suspicious circumstance on Boblett Street.

Jan. 2, 2:59 p.m.: Malicious mischief on Mitchell Avenue.

Jan. 2, 4:52 p.m.: Harassment on Alder Street.

Jan. 2, 5 p.m.: Violation of no-contact order domestic violence on 2nd Street.

Jan. 2, 6:43 p.m.: Hit and run attended on 2nd Street.

CrOssWOrd

Jan. 3, 8:39 a.m.: Possession of a stolen motor vehicle on Boblett Street.

Jan. 3, 12:16 p.m.: Suspicious circumstance on 9th Street.

Jan. 3, 8:50 a.m.: Auto collision on Boblett Street.

Jan. 3, 2 p.m.: Juvenile runaway on H Street.

Jan. 3, 5:15 p.m.: Neighborhood dispute on Leighton Street.

Jan. 4, 6:06 a.m.: DUI on 2nd Street.

Jan. 4, 1:44 p.m.: Burglary on H Street.

Jan. 5, 7:06 a.m.: Burglary on H Street.

Jan. 5, 11:57 a.m.: Drugs found on Mitchell Avenue.

Jan. 5, 1:15 p.m.: Violation of no contact order on H Street.

Jan. 5, 5:14 p.m.: Driving offense on 2nd Street.

Jan. 6, 9:56 a.m.: Fraud on Kingsley Avenue.

Report by Blaine Police Department

Weather Boating Class: Thursdays beginning January 12, 6:30–8:30 p.m., Bellingham Technical College. Learn basic weather knowledge for safer and more enjoyable boating. Info: seo@boatingisfun.org. Sponsored by the Bellingham Sail and Power Squadron.

Mason Bees - Alternative Pollinators: Saturday, January 14, 10 a.m.–noon, Blaine Library, 610 3rd Street. Discuss how to establish and maintain a healthy colony in your yard and neighboring areas. Local mason bee producers available and local beekeepers will be present to help answer questions about honeybees. Presented by Blaine CORE. Info: wcls.org.

Blaine Senior Center Big Bucks Bingo: Saturday, January 14, noon–3 p.m., Blaine Senior Center, 763 G Street. Over $275 in prizes. Early bird starts at 12:30 p.m. Regular bingo at 1 p.m. Eight games $15. Info: 360/332-8040.

Vivaldi Reimagined: Sunday, January 15, 3 p.m., Mount Baker Theatre, 104 North Commercial Street, Bellingham. Vivaldi like you’ve never heard Vivaldi before. Featuring Denise Dillenbeck, violin; Erika Block, clarinet; David Feingold and Yaniv Attar, guitar. Info and tickets: bellinghamsymphony.com.

Basic Boating Knowledge Course: Tuesdays beginning January 17, 6:30–8:30 p.m., Bellingham Technical College. This course qualifies for Washington State Boater Education Card. Info: seo@boatingisfun.org. Sponsored by the Bellingham Sail and Power Squadron.

Becoming an In-Home Caregiver: Thursday, January 19, 10 a.m.–2 p.m., Blaine Library, 610 3rd Street. Drop in to gain info and assistance in the process. Presented by Northwest Regional Council. Info: wcls.org.

Uncorked: Winemaker Dinner: Friday, January 20, 6 p.m., Semiahmoo Resort, 9565 Semiahmoo Parkway. Join winemakers from Browne Family Vineyards and the Semiahmoo culinary team for an interactive dinner. Info and reservations: semiahmoo.com.

Dementia Educational Series by Silverado: Thursday, January 19, 5:30–6:30 p.m., Blaine Library, 610 3rd Street. Informative presentations on a variety of dementia-related topics, designed to further your knowledge and help you provide the best possible care and support for individuals with memory impairments.

Basics of Sprouting: Saturday, January 21, 10 a.m.–noon, Blaine Library, 610 3rd Street. Nutrient dense, sprouts are a welcome addition to our winter diet. Easy to grow, you don’t even need a windowsill. We will cover basic supplies, where to get seeds, timetables, etc. Presented by Blaine CORE. Info: wcls.org.

Whatcom Dream Financial Empowerment Class: Thursdays, January 26 - February 23, 6:30–7:30 p.m., CAP Center, 508 G Street. Improve your financial management skills for a more secure financial future. Free. For more info or to register: 360/296-0441 or kevin@thewhatcomdream.org. Sponsored by the Community Assistance Program.

Pruning 101: Saturday, January 28, 10 a.m.–noon, Blaine Library, 610 3rd Street. This is the perfect time to start pruning. Trees are breaking hibernation earlier (or not even going into deep hibernation), so take advantage of some of our sunny winter days and brush up on those pruning skills. We will discuss tools, why to prune, decisions, necessary (learning to understand growth habits of tress/bushes). We will also present on overgrown trees and how to get them back in shape. Bring your questions! Presented by Blaine CORE. Info: wcls.org.

ANSWERS: THENORTHERNLIGHT.COM

January 12-18 at Blaine. Not for navigation.

49° 0’ 0”N - 122° 46’ 0”W

DATE TIME HEIGHT TIME HEIGHT

Th 12 1:55 am 4.9 9:25 am 14.3

4:10 pm 9.1 8:12 pm 10.3

Fr 13 2:29 am 6.1 9:47 am 14.2

4:54 pm 8.1 9:40 pm 10.0

Sa 14 3:07 am 7.5 10:13 am 14.1

5:36 pm 6.9 11:38 pm 10.1

Su 15 3:49 am 9.0 10:37 am 14.0

6:20 pm 5.7

Mo 16 1:44 am 11.0 4:45 am 10.5

11:07 am 13.9 7:06 pm 4.5

Tu 17 3:14 am 12.2 6:11 am 11.7

11:41 am 13.9 7:54 pm 3.4

We 18 4:14 am 13.3 7:57 am 12.5

12:23 pm 13.9 8:42 pm 2.3

Precipitation: During the period of January 2-8, 0.5 inches of precipitation were recorded. The 2023 year-to-date precipitation was 0.5 inches.

Temperature: High for the past week was 58°F on January 5 with a low of 34°F on January 2. Average high was 50°F and average low was 38°F.

Courtesy Birch Bay Water & Sewer Dist.

tides26th Annual Arts and Jazz Fundraiser: Saturday, February 4, 7 p.m., Blaine Middle School Cafeteria. Tickets at the door: $10 adults, $5 student/senior, no charge for children under 5. All proceeds go toward scholarships and experiences beyond the curriculum for students of the Blaine school district art departments.

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.

Meals on Wheels Frozen Meals: Thursdays 11:30 a.m.–noon, Blaine Senior Center, 763 G Street. Adults 60+ pick up five frozen meals. Suggested donation $5 per meal or whatever is affordable. First come, first serve basis. Info: 360/332-8040.

Meals on Wheels Hot Lunches: Monday–Friday, 11:30 a.m.–12:30 p.m., Blaine Senior Center, 763 G Street. Suggested donation of $5 per meal ($8.50 if under 60) or whatever is affordable. First come, first serve basis. Info: 360/332-8040.

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

WeatherParents of Addicted Loved Ones (PAL) Meetings: Tuesdays 6:30–8 p.m., CAP Center, 508 G Street, Blaine. A support group for parents of adult children dealing with addiction, but open to anyone (18 or older) seeking to learn a better way to help an addicted love one. Evidence-based, structured curriculum and peer support at no cost. Info: palgroup.org or email Bev and Dave at wamillards@comcast.net.

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

Birch Bay Book Club: Wednesday, January 18, 4 p.m., Birch Bay Vogt Library site, 7968 Birch Bay Drive. January title is Cold Millions by Jess Walter. Info: klia1@mac.com.

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

12 free days at WA state parks in 2023

Washington State Parks (WSP) has 12 free days in 2023 where visitors will not be required to have a Discover Pass to park at state parks. Discover Passes will still be required to access Washington Department of Natural Resources (DNR) and the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW) lands on these days.

A Discover Pass costs $30 to $35 for a year of access to state lands. A day-use pass costs $10.

“When you buy the Discover Pass, you are helping to keep the state’s wonderful outdoor recreation sites open and accessible to the public,” it says on the WSP website.

Washington State Legislature and Governor Christine Gregoire created Discover Passes in 2011 to offset reductions in general tax support for WSP, DNR and WDFW recreation lands and facilities, according to the WSP website.

Popular state parks in the area include Larrabee, Birch Bay, Peace Arch Historical, Sucia Island, Saddlebag Island, Bay View and Deception Pass along with Rasar and Rockport off North Cascades Highway.

The upcoming Discover Pass free days this year are:

• Monday, January 16 – Martin Luther King, Jr. Day

• Thursday, March 9 – Billy Frank Junior’s Birthday

• Sunday, March 19 – State Parks’ 110th Birthday

• Saturday, April 22 – Earth Day

• Saturday, June 10 – National Get Outdoors Day

• Sunday, June 11 – Free Fishing Day

• Monday, June 19 – Juneteenth

• Saturday, September 23 – National Public Lands Day

• Tuesday, October 10 – World Mental Health Day

• Saturday, November 11 – Veterans Day

• Saturday, November 25 – Autumn Day

Blaine featured on Jimmy Kimmel Live

Blaine man sentenced to 10 years for drive-by shooting

B y I an H aupt

A Blaine man who was arrested in June 2022 for firing multiple gunshots in the 4600 block of Alderson Road will serve up to 10 years in prison after pleading guilty last month in Whatcom County Superior Court.

Shawn Dale Noisey, 38, of Blaine, was sentenced to 120 months in prison December 22, 2022, after pleading guilty to two counts of

second-degree unlawful possession of a firearm and discharging a firearm, according to court records.

Around 10:30 p.m. June 7, 2022, residents in the Alderson Road area reported hearing four to five gunshots in rapid succession and observed a silver Subaru Impreza speed away westbound on the road after stopping and firing another shot. The vehicle was later spotted while deputies were interviewing witnesses.

Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office (WCSO) deputies stopped the vehicle in the 8100 block of Harborview Road and learned that Noisey, who was in the front passenger seat, was the shooter. Deputies located a loaded semi-automatic handgun under the driver’s seat and a box of ammunition on the front seat passenger floor. Noisey was under active supervision by the Washington State Department of Corrections and not legally allowed to possess a

firearm or ammunition.

Noisey has 11 prior felonies dating back to 1997, according to court records. In a previous article on Noisey’s arrest, WCSO spokesperson Deb Slater said he had 14 prior felony convictions. His criminal history includes second-degree burglary, second-degree unlawful possession of a firearm, felony harassment and first-degree theft. His misdemeanor history was omitted.

Road Rules: Autonomous vehicles

B y d ou G d a H l

Question: Wasn’t it like ten years ago that Elon Musk promised we’d have fully autonomous cars in five years? When am I going to get a car that can drive me around?

Answer: It’s easy to poke fun at Elon Musk, since he’s the loudest person to be wrong about autonomous cars, but he’s not alone. Along with Tesla, carmakers including Mercedes, Volvo, Nissan, Toyota, GM, Honda, Hyundai, and Google all predicted that we’d have full self-driving cars by 2020.

In 2016 Anthony Foxx, US Transportation Secretary at the time, predicted that by 2021 we’d no longer need a driver license because we’d just summon an automated car service. Musk went bigger (of course), saying in 2019 that “It’s financially insane to buy anything other than a Tesla,” and following up by saying that “next year for sure” there would be over a million fully self-driving Teslas on the road.

There have been more tempered predictions, but they didn’t come from the experts. The movie Demolition Man, which came out in 1993 and is set in 2032, will be wrong about much of the

future, but made a closer guess of when autonomous cars would become reality (and yet likely still too soon). I wonder how it feels to the leaders in autonomous tech that screenwriters from the early nineties were better than them at guessing the timeline for self-driving cars.

You might write off all these predictions as the irrational optimism of tech nerds, but it does matter. One of the big claims of the robot car folks is that once we all give up our steering wheels, we’ll see a 90 percent reduction in traffic fatalities. Even if that number is overstated, it’s not unreasonable. Human error is a factor in 90 to 94 percent of traffic fatalities, depending on which study you read. In the ten years from 2012 to 2021 Washington had a 53 percent increase in traffic fatalities, and while the final numbers for 2022 aren’t in yet, it’s going to be higher yet.

Yes, that’s bad, but we don’t need to wait for a tech savior. Of the 670 traffic fatalities in 2021, half involved an impaired driver, 31 percent involved speeding, and 19 percent involved a distracted driver. Collectively those three high-risk behaviors were a factor in about 70 percent of all

fatal crashes. We could get a long way toward that 90 percent reduction the robot car builders are promising just by practicing basic safe driving behaviors.

Will we ever get fully autonomous cars? Based on what the experts have been saying for the past decade or so, self-driving cars are always, no matter what year it is, five years away. Sure, there are a few test projects out

there; a semi-truck that successfully drove 80 miles without a driver on board, and several cities have autonomous ride-hailing as long as it’s on a predetermined set of roads.

For the rest of us, what we have available now is Advanced Driver.

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

s Comedian Joel McHale tells the story of his crossing the border into Blaine on the Jimmy Kimmel show. Visit bit.ly/3CFAV6K to watch the segment.

s Washington State Parks is offering 12 free days in 2023 for state parks such as Birch Bay State Park.

File photo

File photo

Photo courtesy Jimmy Kimmel Live Facebook

year in REVIEW

B y r a I na l enton , off I ce ass I stant

As we at Blaine-Birch Bay Park and Recreation District 2 reflect on this past year, we are filled with gratitude for our community.

2022 was a year of transitions, as we wished Heidi Holmes, program manager of over a decade, best wishes in her new career path. Thanks to the foundation she laid, along with community support, partnerships and volunteers, we had a successful year.

Some of our favorite memories this year include supporting several local organizations in their recreational program goals. Our skilled and fun fitness instructors strengthened bodies and minds through a wide variety of affordable group fitness classes. We partnered with Birch Bay Chamber of Commerce to bring children’s activities to their kite festival, Discover Birch Bay Days and Trick-or-Treat on the Berm. We co-hosted Splash Days with the city of Blaine to help families cool off this summer and worked with Birch Bay Waterslides to bring Waterslide Wednesdays back.

We swashbuckled with you at Pirate Daze and partnered with the Birch Bay Village Golf Club to provide youth golf lessons. Coach Mark brought out the best game in adults and children alike through his pickleball program including

Blaine-Birch Bay Park and Recreation District 2

lessons and workouts at the Birch Bay Activity Center. And finally, we wrapped up this year with our 10th Annual Holiday Lights Dash and topped it off with a free movie and visit from Santa.

You can look forward to these activities and more in 2023. Upcoming activities include children’s youth day camps, as well as visits to local parks in our familiar little red bus to bring activities to you this coming summer. We know we wouldn’t be able to fulfill our mission to provide recreational opportunities without you. We appreciate the support of our community, and we look forward to serving you and bringing many more recreational opportunities and memories in 2023.

Top

tips for navigating the ‘tripledemic’

ommend a mask when around other people indoors.

Washington’s ‘tripledemic’ is far from over. As Covid-19, flu and RSV (Respiratory Syncytial Virus) continue to surge, hospitals and health care providers are reaching capacity. In Washington state, flu deaths are at higher rates than are usually seen at this point in the season (40 people, including three children, as of December 10, 2022). High levels of respiratory illnesses could continue for a while.

As a physician with Community Health Plan of Washington, I urge you to consider the following tips to ward off illness this winter and spring: Wash your hands. Try to prevent getting sick by washing your hands frequently for at least 20 seconds. Hand washing can be one of the most effective ways to prevent the spread of germs. It is especially important to do so before/during/after preparing or eating food, after caring for someone who is sick and after blowing your nose/coughing/sneezing, and after using the restroom.

Try masking up. Masks also help if you will be in close proximity to people in large public indoor spaces, traveling by airplane, bus or train or anywhere with large crowds where you are at higher risk of being exposed to viruses. While masks are not currently required in Washington, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control (CDC) does rec -

Get vaccinated. For flu prevention, current flu shots help you and your loved ones to stay healthy during flu season. Your annual flu shot is an essential part of staying healthy and protecting the people you care about. You can visit your local doctor’s office, pharmacy or local clinic event. You can also get your flu shot at many drugstores and even grocery stores. Visit the flu vaccine finder on vaccines.gov to find a flu vaccine location near you. In most cases, your flu shot is free.

For Covid-19 prevention, the CDC recommends that everyone six months and older should get a Covid-19 vaccine to help protect you from severe illness, hospitalization and death. Even if you’ve had Covid-19, you should still get yourself or your child vaccinated as it provides added protection against the virus. People who already had Covid-19 and do not get vaccinated after their recovery are more likely to get Covid-19 again than those who get vaccinated after their recovery.

The CDC also recommends that people ages six months and older receive one updated booster if it has been at least two months since their last Covid-19 vaccine dose. People who have gotten more than one original booster are also recommended to get an updated booster.

Vaccines help to protect you, your family and your community

from becoming seriously ill.

While there are no current vaccines for RSV, I recommend focusing on the above prevention strategies. However, there is a medication for babies at the highest risk of RSV. You should speak with your doctor about medication to prevent RSV if your baby meets the following criteria:

• Born on or after October 15, 2020 and has chronic lung disease

• Born on or after October 15, 2021 and has congenital heart disease

• Born on or after October 15, 2021 and born prematurely

If you or a loved one do get sick, simple remedies such as gargling, drinking lemon honey tea and having soup can help you feel better.

If you have asthma or lung disease, please be sure to use your inhalers according to your provider’s instructions. If the symptoms are severe, or if they don’t improve in a week, you should call your doctor, community health center or primary care provider. If you have trouble breathing or have chest pain, you should be seen in an emergency department.

Whether it is a cold, flu, RSV or Covid-19, stay home if you are sick.

Dr. LuAnn Chen is the senior medical director at Community Health Plan of Washington. Community Health Plan of Washington is a notfor-profit that serves over 300,000 people across the state through Apple Health (Medicaid), Medicare and Individual & Family insurance plans.

s Pirate Daze in August 2022.

Photo courtesy BBBPRD2