The northern light newspaper 2016 03 17 by Point Roberts Press

March 17 - 23, 2016

FREE

Community Newspaper of Blaine and Birch Bay HHHECRWSSHHH Postal Customer

IN THIS

ISSUE

State to stop taking pot shop applications, page 8

Haggen stores sold to Albertsons but name lives on

Car Care special section, page 9

PRSRT STD U. S. Postage PAID Permit NO. 87 Blaine, WA 98230

Wings Over Water photo gallery, page 10

Birders descend on Blaine

By Oliver Lazenby

(See Haggen, page 8)

s Birders from around the state and B.C. flocked to Blaine last weekend for the annual Wings Over Water Northwest Birding Festival. Above, a young birder looks through a scope at a bird-viewing station at the Blaine Pier at the end of Marine Drive. More photos on page 10.

Photo by Oliver Lazenby

Senator Doug Ericksen behind switch in highway funds By Oliver Lazenby A last-minute switch that took funding from a long-awaited Blaine interchange improvement and redirected it to projects in Ferndale and Lynden was apparently the handiwork of state senator Doug Ericksen (R-Ferndale). The improvement would have added an exit and on-ramp to exit 274 and had been slated to get $45 million from the state in previous versions of the budget. However, the senate removed the project from its supplemental transportation budget and instead directed funds to two projects that weren’t previously in the budget. About $40 million will go toward upgrades to improvements on State

Route 539 in Lynden and $19 million will go toward work on Thornton Road in Ferndale. The amended budget was passed by the state house of representatives on March 9. Ericksen proposed the amendment that transferred funding and said the Thornton Road and SR 539 projects had been left out of the previous budget by mistake. “There was actually an error for last year’s projects in terms of the project list,” he said. “They used the wrong lists in the final budget, unfortunately.” The Blaine improvements would have made the 274 interchange a fully functioning interchange, with on-ramps and exits in both directions. Currently, there

Workshop aims to make businesses more Google friendly By Oliver Lazenby Two workshops next week aim to make Blaine businesses easier to find online. At the workshops, called Let’s Put Blaine on the Map, city of Blaine staff, Blaine Chamber of Commerce members and local volunteers will coach business owners through the process of making their business easier to find on Google Maps and Google Search. The one-hour workshops are sched-

uled for 6:30 p.m. on Wednesday, March 23 and 9:30 a.m. on Thursday, March 24, at the Blaine Library. The workshops are part of a Google initiative called Let’s Put Our Cities on the Map. Google wants more small businesses to claim their Google-generated profiles in order to make its search listings more accurate and help small businesses succeed. Search Google for a particular business

and often a Google-generated listing for the business appears on the right side of the screen. It includes such information as business hours, location and a link to the business’ website. Business owners can claim these pages for free, which allows them to add information and keep the listings up to date. Many Blaine businesses are missing out

is only a southbound on-ramp and a northbound off-ramp. The upgrade would have allowed southbound I-5 traffic to exit into Blaine near Blaine Road. Currently, southbound drivers who miss exit 276, the only other southbound exit in Blaine, have to continue 8 miles to exit 270 in Custer before they can turn around. Blaine mayor Harry Robinson said the lack of off-ramps in town hinders economic growth and makes new businesses reluctant to set up in south Blaine because of the limited access. The city hoped the project could also alleviate (See Interchange, page 3)

INSIDE

Haggen will sell 29 of its core stores – including five in Whatcom County – to Albertsons, pending court approval. That’s almost all of the bankrupt company’s remaining stores, but the Haggen brand name won’t disappear. Fifteen stores purchased by Albertsons will carry on the name and continue to be operated from Haggen’s Bellingham headquarters, according to a March 14 press release from the company. Stores that will retain the Haggen banner include 14 locations that predate the company’s failed expansion into the Southwest and one recently converted location in Oak Harbor, according to the news release. Albertsons will pay a base amount of $106 million for the stores plus a “closing adjustment amount,” according to court documents. A Haggen spokesperson wouldn’t say whether John Clougher would continue to lead Haggen as CEO, though Clougher was quoted in the company’s press release. “We are excited about the opportunity to have the backing of Albertsons and look forward to being part of the Albertsons grocery family,” he said. Haggen’s focus on sustainably sourced and locally produced products won’t change, according to the press release. The other 14 stores in the deal will transition back to the Albertsons banner. Albertsons previously owned the stores, but sold them to Haggen in January 2015 to get Federal Trade Commission (FTC) approval on its merger with Safeway. The U.S. Bankruptcy Court in Delaware that’s overseeing Haggen’s bankruptcy must approve the deal. A court hearing on the proposed sale is scheduled for March 29. It’s possible that some of the stores’ landlords could object to the sales, as happened with a few Haggen stores sold at auction in the past year. Albertsons didn’t buy all the remaining stores. A store in Oregon City, Oregon;

Letters . . . . . . . . . 4 Sports . . . . . . . . . . 6 Classifieds . . . . . 11 Police . . . . . . . . . 14 Coming Up . . . . . 14 Tides . . . . . . . . . . 14

TheNorthernLight.com

(See Google, page 2) TheNorthernLight

@TNLreporter

@PointRobertsPress

Easter Easter Brunch Brunch

The Northern Light • March 17 - 23, 2016

Google...

NEW EDGE Hair Design

From page 1

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Taylor Trueblood of Nailed It!

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$5 Off Pedicure 264-C H St • Downtown Blaine

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Lummi Te’Ti’Sen Center ONE MINUTE OFF I-5 EXIT 260

on this opportunity to spread information to Google searchers. According to Google, only 37 percent of businesses have claimed their listings. After searching for local businesses online, city of Blaine community development director Michael Jones was convinced that local businesses could benefit from the program, he said in a press release. “Too many businesses were missing or not putting their best foot forward online,” he said.

BURGERS & BREW

in Birch Bay

TRIBAL IMAGES GALLERY & GIFTS

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360-366-3199 • I-5 Exit 270 in Birch Bay Square

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Native made Art 360-393-3110 • Tuesday – Saturday 10-5

High Quality, Delicious Easter Chocolate

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360-303-3661 • Tuesday – Saturday 10-5

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360-933-4304 Breakfast & Lunch • Mon - Fri 8-3 • Sat 9-3 Fish ‘n Chips • Indian Tacos • Burgers • Pow Wow Burgers Scratch-made soups • Everything made from scratch

Home of the $5 Daily Special!

A whole weekend celebration!

March 26 & 27

10am-3pm

Egg Hunt & Kid Fun Package! Petting Zoo & Pony Rides Tickets available at Easter Bunny bellewoodfarms.com Family Photos See info, ticket prices and menu online. 6140 Guide Meridian Scavenger Trail Hunt Apple Bin Train Ride (360) 318-7720 Face Painting

Celebrate Easter at

W a s h i n g t o n ’s S e a s i d e R e t r e a t .

Made fresh in Whatcom County at

for all your travel needs. 360-220-2169

1st Friday Entertainment

at Birch Bay

A Whale of an Easter Treat!

Friday, April 1 at 7 • Swil Kanim

Lummi Art & Small Business Fair Saturday, April 2, 10-5 • Locally made Native American art! Rural Ave.

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Country Brunch!

Lummi Te’Ti’ Sen Center Slater Rd.

You’ll find it here:

St. Joseph Hospital Gift Nook Both Community Food Co-ops Both Paper Dreams Online at www.thecshop.com

Your name on any Easter Chocolate free-of-charge

MadFanTickets.com

Enjoy Easter on the Farm!

is just a hop away!

Open with Candy, Ice Cream & Easter Bunnies Open 2pm - 7pm March 18-26

Horse Wagon Rides

Sat., March 26 • 3:30-6:30pm

EXIT 260

Easter Egg Hunt Sat., March 26 • 4-6pm

Event info: 360-306-8554 • 4920 Rural Avenue • Ferndale

facebook.com/Te’Ti’Sen Center

Easter Brunch in the Semiahmoo Ballroom

360-371-2070

4825 Alderson Rd • Birch Bay

www.thecshop.com

Easter Dinner

by the Sea at Pierside Kitchen

Sunday, March 27 • 9am to 4pm

Sunday, March 27 • 3pm to 8pm

Easter egg hunt - 10am for brunch guests Appearance from the Easter Bunny Kids petting zoo Music from Jon Mutchler All your Easter Brunch favorites, from salmon eggs benedict to rack of lamb!

Enjoy our expansive seaside views and a delightful three-course, prix fixe menu from Chef Bruno, including selections such as scallops, salmon, and lamb. Make this Easter one to remember!

$45 ADULT, $23 KIDS, FREE FOR 5 AND UNDER

$55 ADULT, $23 KIDS, FREE FOR 5 AND UNDER Reservations required. Call 360-318-2090

Reservations required. Call 360-318-2044

Visit www.semiahmoo.com for upcoming events and specials!

9565 Semiahmoo Parkway • Blaine • www.semiahmoo.com

March 17 - 23, 2016 • thenorthernlight.com

Interchange... From page 1

truck congestion on northbound SR 543 by giving trucks an alternate route. City officials have been pushing for the project since 2009, when the city completed an Interchange Justification Report, a document that the Federal Highway Administration and the Washington State Department of Transportation require of new interstate access points. The interchange project has also been on the Whatcom Council of Government’s list of priority projects for years, but isn’t one of its top four priority projects. That list is just one of many data points that lawmakers use to distribute transportation funding. (Another Blaine project, relocating the Vehicle Cargo and Inspections System, is one of the council’s top four, but it also didn’t get state funds.) The project in Lynden that got state money is the third phase of a project that was partially funded in 2003, said state representative Luanne Van Werven (R-Lynden). The improvements will add at least two more lanes to the Guide Meridian between Birch Bay-Lynden Road and West Badger Road. The Ferndale project involves connecting Thornton Street to a nearby roundabout by a bridge crossing over railroad tracks. The project is meant to relieve congestion on the city’s Main Street and improve access to neighborhoods.

READ IT FIRST.

The budget switch frustrated Blaine City Council which directed mayor Harry Robinson to write Ericksen protesting the switch. “It is of critical importance to the economic viability of the City of Blaine to provide exits and on-ramps into our city,” Robinson said in a March 7 letter. “What other city in Whatcom County has Interstate 5 running directly through its city center with only one north and one southbound interchange?” In his letter, Robinson asked for Ericksen’s support in amending the budget. However, the state House of Representatives passed the supplemental transportation budget two days later. Ericksen said funding the Blaine interchange project would be a priority next year. “We’re not going to eliminate that project, we’re going to delay it until we can find some funding,” he said. The City of Blaine may seek a less expensive option for improving the interchange – adding a southbound exit, but not a northbound on-ramp, said assistant public works director Bill Bullock. That would accomplish most of what the city wants: Southbound traffic would have another exit in Blaine and trucks could get to Blaine’s industrial corridor easier, Bullock said. “If it can accomplish those two things, it accomplishes 90 percent of what we want out of an update to the interchange,” Bullock said. “That would be cheaper, but we don’t know how much cheaper.”

Christ Episcopal Church 382 Boblett St., Blaine, WA

Palm Sunday - March 20th 10 am Holy Eucharist

Maundy Thursday - March 24th

6 pm Fellowship Meal 7 pm Maundy Thursday Liturgy with Holy Eucharist & Stripping of the Altar

Good Friday - March 25th 12 p.m. Good Friday Liturgy

Easter Day - March 27th

Grace Lutheran Church

SILVER REEF HOTEL CASINO SPA

4876 4876 HAXTON ROAD, FERNDALE, WA

3PM - 8 PM FREE ADMISSION TICKETS TICKETS AVAILABLE AVAILABLE AT AT PARTICIPATING PARTICIPATING BUSINESSES BUSINESSES

PRIZES & GIVEAWAYS • FREE FOOD BEER & WINE TASTING

Holy Week Services Palm Sunday

March 20 at 10:30 a.m.

Maundy Thursday

PRESENTED BY:

METHODIST CHURCH

2996 MAIN STREE T (PO BOX 500) CUSTER, WA 98240

(360)366-5181

Easter Worship Services

Maundy Thursday: March 24 Easter Worship: Children’s Time:

Silent Dinner 6pm Worship 6:30pm 10am 10:15am with Easter Egg Hunt Brunch: 11 am

Everyone Welcome

March 24 at 7 p.m.

Good Friday

March 25 at 7 p.m.

Easter Sunday Breakfast at 9 a.m. Festival Worship at 10:30 a.m.

We invite you to share in the Holy Week & Easter Services

702 G Street Blaine 332-6589

blaine-grace-lutheran.org

WIN

IN G GR RE EA AT TP R ZES ES --INC PRIIZ INCLLUDIN

UDING G-2 TTIICCK KE ET TS ON

S ON

O OR RA A

60”” T TV V!!

THURSDAY, MARCH 17

9TH ANNUAL

www.christchurchblaine.org

CUSTER UNITED

THENORTHERNLIGHT.COM

TONIGHT

10 a.m. Holy Eucharist

BUSINESS TO CONSUMER

Blaine United Church of Christ Alleluia! He is Risen!

Please join Pastor Sandy Cheatham at the Blaine United Church of Christ (Congregational) for Holy Week and Easter Services. Sun., March 20 10:30 a.m. Palm Sunday service with Communion Wed., March 23 12 – 12:30 p.m. Midweek Music and Meditation for Peace Thurs., March 24 6 p.m. Maundy Thursday Communion Service of Light followed by simple soup supper Fri, March 25 6 p.m. Good Friday Service Sun., March 27 9 a.m. Pancake Breakfast Sun., March 27 10:30 a.m. Easter Service with Communion

We are an open and affirming church - welcoming all the people of God.

Corner of Fourth & Clark • 332-6906

The Northern Light • March 17 - 23, 2016

The Northern L ght Photo of the week 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, and the summer recreation guide Waterside as well as maps and other publications. Point Roberts Press Inc. is a member of the Washington Newspaper Publishers Association, Chambers of Commerce of Bellingham/ Whatcom County, Birch Bay, Blaine and Point Roberts and the Bellingham/Whatcom County Convention and Visitors Bureau. The opinions expressed by contributors are their own and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the editors. Letters Policy The Northern Light welcomes letters to the editor. Please include name, address and daytime telephone number for verification. Letters are limited to 350 words and may be edited or rejected for reasons of legality, length and good taste. Thank-you letters are limited to five individuals or groups. Writers should avoid personal invective. Unsigned letters will not be accepted for publication. Requests for withholding names will be considered on an individual basis. Consumer complaints should be submitted directly to the business in question or the local chamber of commerce. Only one letter per month from an individual correspondent will be published. Email letters to letters@thenorthernlight.com.

s Two storms last week knocked out power to thousands in Whatcom County and pushed logs, rocks and other debris over the road at Birch Bay. Photo by Eric Ellingson

Publisher & Managing Editor Patrick Grubb publisher@thenorthernlight.com

Letters

Co-publisher & Advertising Director Louise Mugar lmugar@thenorthernlight.com Editor Steve Guntli steve@pointrobertspress.com Copy Editor Kara Furr kara@pointrobertspress.com Reporter Oliver Lazenby oliver@pointrobertspress.com Creative Services Ruth Lauman, Doug De Visser production@thenorthernlight.com Office Manager Amy Weaver info@thenorthernlight.com Advertising Sales Molly Ernst, Janet McCall Catherine Darkenwald sales@thenorthernlight.com General Editorial Inquiries editor@thenorthernlight.com Contributors In This Issue Eric Ellingson, Janell Kortlever The Northern Light 225 Marine Drive, Suite 200 Blaine, WA 98230 Tel: 360/332-1777 Vol XXI, No 39 Circulation: 10,500 copies

The Editor: Anyone who watched the March 6 CBS Sunday Morning’s TV coverage, “A Matter of Time” on the possible destruction in the Pacific Northwest by the “Big One” – the major earthquake and tsunami which more and more geologists are forecasting to occur in the relatively near future – can be forgiven for being concerned. While senior citizens can hope it will not happen in our time, many of us have children and grandchildren who might well be affected. At a time when we are experiencing ridiculous presidential debates, perhaps more important discussions could be encouraged related to what action candidates would take in the event that this disaster would occur. Perhaps they should also be thinking how states can be granted federal aid to handle safety precautions before, rather than after, a disaster of this kind? On a local level, perhaps we should also be questioning the approval of new housing construction on the oceans’ edge, particularly at a time when “Tsunami Evacuation Route” signs are being posted in parts of Whatcom County. Events like Wings Over Water are a far better use for these

properties, in my view. On a personal level, perhaps it is also time to pay attention to the Emergency Preparedness Guide available in Washington state. Trevor Hoskins Blaine The Editor: On February 12, Sandra Robson received the Paul deArmond Award for investigative journalism. The Paul deArmond Award is given “To honor freedom of the press and the writers who boldly pursue the truth.” Ms. Robson was given the award in recognition of her “investigative journalism uncovering the financial and organizational connections between promoters of anti-Indian racism and fossil fuel industrial developers in the Pacific Northwest.” Whether you are a Whatcom County newcomer or lifelong resident, reading Ms. Robson’s articles will give you a greater understanding of the forces fighting to shape and control Whatcom County. Newspapers today are under pressure to avoid upsetting the moneyed interests that support them with paid advertising. For Whatcom County newspapers, this has

been especially true regarding coverage of the proposed GPT coal export terminal. You can read Sandra Robson’s articles at coalstop.com. Ms. Robson’s articles are skillfully written, contain numerous photographs and are enlightening and thoroughly interesting reading. Paula Rotundi Blaine The Editor: I would like to inform the readers of a prestigious award bestowed upon one of our local residents. Sandy Robson of Birch Bay received the Paul deArmond Citizen Journalism Award, given by NWcitizen. com, on February 12. The award is given to highlight the importance of citizen journalism in maintaining our democracy. Ben Franklin stated, “It is the first responsibility of every citizen to question authority,” and Sandy has taken on that task by challenging the authority of Continued on next page Please send letters to letters@thenorthernlight.com no later than noon on Monday.

Civic Meetings

Circulation Independently verified by:

Next issue: March 24 Ads due: March 18

Birch Bay Water & Sewer District: Second and fourth Thursdays, 4:30 p.m., district offices, 7096 Point Whitehorn Road, Birch Bay. Info: bbwsd.com.

Birch Bay Watershed & Aquatic Resources Management District: Third Wednesday, 6 p.m., location varies. Info: bbwarm.whatcom county.org.

Blaine City Council: Second and fourth Mondays, 6 p.m., Blaine City Council chambers, 435 Martin Street. Info: ci.blaine.wa.us.

Blaine Parks Board: Third Thursday, 9:30 a.m., Blaine City Council chambers, 435 Martin Street. Info: 360/332-8311, ext. 3330.

Blaine Planning Commission: Second and fourth Thursdays, 7 p.m., Blaine City Council chambers, 435 Martin Street. Info: blainepc@ cityofblaine.com.

Blaine School Board: Fourth Monday, 7 p.m., Blaine school district offices. Info: blaine.wednet.edu.

Blaine-Birch Bay Park and Recreation: Second Tuesday, 5:30 p.m., Birch Bay Chamber Office, 7900 Birch Bay Drive, Birch Bay. Info: blainebirchbayparkandrec.org.

North Whatcom Fire & Rescue: Third Thursday, 7 p.m. Blaine Fire Station. Info: nwfrs.net.

March 17 - 23, 2016 • thenorthernlight.com

Japanese girls school Letters ... performing on March 24 From previous page

The Soshin Girls School’s wind orchestra, from Yokohama, Japan, will perform a concert at 7 p.m. on Thursday, March 24 , at the Blaine schools Performing Arts Center. The group of 30 girls is staying for a week in Blaine with local families as part of the school’s cultural music exchange program. The concert is free, but donations will be accepted for the Blaine Food Bank and the Blaine High School band’s 2017 trip to Japan. The girls are also performing at Western Washington University, Northwest Indian College and Ferndale High School during their stay.

global corporations that would turn our county into a sacrifice zone to profit from coal export. She has researched public records to discover the falsehoods spread by local coal export proponents, and exposed the disturbing attempts of the coal companies to influence our local elections and undermine local governance. Sandy Robson’s dedication to reporting on these important matters affirms Thomas Jefferson’s belief that “an enlightened citizenry is indispensable for the proper functioning of a republic.” Thank you, Sandy! Mike Sennett Bellingham The Editor: Finally some good news! We all know for years now how the Blaine Post Office left tons to be desired. The former postmasters

Save the Date · Attend a working session to get your business on the map Evening / March 23rd Morning / March 24th

have left such a momentous mess due either to their incompetence or just not wanting to tackle such a disaster. Well, we have had a new postmistress since July. She and her right-hand man, Suki, dove into the disaster with both feet. They are making strides. I really feel if we could just give them time and patience, we all will see a major improvement in our post office. (Note: When approaching Suki, walk softly. I mean that in a kind way. They have such a huge headache to deal with that he can become defensive until he finds out what the issue is.) I can honestly say they are truly interested in improving the operations of the post office and the staff’s working duties and customer service. Thank you, postmistress Kim and Suki, for taking on the horrendous job. Kay Warner Blaine

Irish Stew Dinner

Saturday, March 19 4:30 - 7 pm Adults $9 Kids 6-12 $6 Under 6 Free Custer United Methodist Church 2996 Main Street, Custer

Info: 360-366-5181

The Immigration Law Firm Law Firm The Immigration • U.S. green cards / naturalization • U.S. green cards / naturalization • Work / investor visas • Work / investor visas • Denied entry waivers • Denied entry waivers • Removal hearings • Removal NEXUS appeals hearings • NEXUS appeals

360-332-7100 360-332-7100

CITY OF BLAINE www.blaineimmigration.com •www.blaineimmigration.com 435 Martin St., Suite 2010 •••435 Blaine, WA St., www.blaineimmigration.com Blaine,WA WA 435Martin Martin St., Suite Suite2010 1010 ••Blaine,

Only 37% of businesses in the US have claimed a local business listing on a search engine – that’s a lot of missing information.

Unless noted, all meetings Leonard are held at City Hall, 435 Martin Street, Suite 4000 and are open to the public.

D.M. Saunders,Leonard AttorneyD.M. at Law Saunders, Attorney at Law

Tuesday, March 22, 8 a.m.

Need a Hand With Your Taxes?

Blaine Tourism Advisory Committee meeting

And with 4 out of 5 people using search engines to find local info like business hours and directions, it also means a lot of missed opportunities for local businesses.

Thursday, March 24, 7 p.m.

Planning Commission meeting and Public Hearings: Comprehensive Plan Updates – Vision and Environment Element

Let’s get your Blaine businesses on the map.

City Council meeting and Public Hearing continued: Shoreline Master Program Update

City staff and local business volunteers will be on hand to explain why having up-to-date online information is important to your business and important to Blaine. These will be working sessions

Thursday, April 7, 10 a.m.

Workshop Dates and Times Wednesday March 23 · 6:30 - 7:30pm · Thursday March 24 · 9:30 -10:30am

Monday, April 11, 6 p.m.

Public Works Advisory Committee meeting Location: 1200 Yew Ave.

U.S. PASSPORTS BY APPOINTMENT ONLY Call (360) 332-8311 or visit our website.

www.cityofblaine.com

Cynthia Polley, Enrolled Agent

U.S. & Canadian Individual & Business

Location: Blaine Library · 610 3rd St, Blaine, WA 98230

If you already have a Google / GMail account, please bring your log-in information.

8105 Birch Bay Square Street • Suite 102 www.BirchBayTaxAndAccounting.com

Tax Planning & Preparation

City Council meeting

Questions?: Contact Michael Jones at 360-543-9981

We’re here to help with all your tax preparation services for individuals and businesses. Let our experienced professionals help you maximize your refund with minimal hassle! • Tax Preparation • Accounting Services • Electronic Filing • Tax Consulting

360-393-3658

Monday, March 28, 6 p.m.

Attend a working session to see how your business shows up on online. Be sure your business info is complete and up-to-date on Google Search and Maps, so customers can reach you.

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The Northern Light • March 17 - 23, 2016

Mara Isabel Spa 50% OFF!

Sports

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Any massage or skincare treatment. Your choice of any one treatment (massage or skincare). Service must be purchased by March 31, 2016.

Call for appt: Mara Davidson LMP, LA # MA00013114 9671 Harbor Court, Blaine • 425-462-1116 for a complete list of services, visit www.MaraIsabel.com

Experienced Borderites softball squad sees room for improvement By Oliver Lazenby Coming off a lackluster season, an experienced girls Borderites softball team is preparing for its 2016 season with hopes for improvement. “Last year wasn’t the greatest for us record-wise,” said head coach Alisa Burk. “We can only improve. We’ve got a strong group of girls this year.” The Borderits lost their first game, an away game to Lynden, 2–6. In its first season after being bumped into class 2A, the varsity Borderites squad won just two out of 12 conference games last year. This year’s varsity team has only two seniors – Dacia Blanco and Riley Miller, a strong pitcher who has started with the varsity team since her freshman year – but seven of the 12 players have varsity experience. Four juniors

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s Returning sophomore Taylor Miller slides into second base in a softball game against Meridian High School last spring. Photo by Janell Kortlever

and six sophomores round out the team and there are no freshmen on varsity, making it a relatively old team, Burk said. Defense should be one of the team’s strengths, especially in the outfield. “They can run down the ball. It’s graceful. It’s fun to watch, and they have strong arms,” Burk said of the team’s outfielders. Borderite hitters have a mix of strengths and styles at bat, with some power hitters and some with strong batting averages. “I think our hitting is going to be pretty solid,” Burk said. In regards to the junior varsity team, this year’s group of rookies

is one of the strongest groups of freshmen Burk’s seen in her six years of coaching, she said. “They’ve played together for a long time and they’re going to bring a ton of talent to the JV team,” Burk said. “We feel that by keeping them together they’re only going to get better.” The Borderites season began with a jamboree on Saturday, March 12. The team has an away game at Nooksack Valley on Thursday, March 17 at 4:30 p.m. The team’s first home game is at 4:30 p.m. on Monday, March 21 against Ferndale.

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March 17 - 23, 2016 • thenorthernlight.com

THE

Brought To You By The Blaine School District

e t i r e d r Bo t r o p e R

DIANE BERGE, EDITOR I would love to hear your comments or feedback. Send to: borderitenews@blainesd.org

Blaine High School Design Development Moves Forward Overall design development for both new construction and modernization on the Blaine High School Campus is nearing completion. Staff and students are sharing in the excitement of watching the details unfold, as we seek to assure that the overall facility serves to support future learning expectations for students in Grades 9 — 12. The School Board will announce a special work session later in the month of April, to be scheduled for the purpose of reviewing final design recommendations. Parents and patrons are welcome to sit in on this discussion. While projecting into the distant future can be a significant challenge, what we do know is that our students and staff are in need of a safe, responsive, adaptive, and inspiring facility that ultimately serves to support both individual and collective teacher and learner needs and interests. We must take into consideration the fact that all students will soon be expected to acquire an expanded number of credits in Language Arts, Mathematics, Science, the Arts, and World Languages. We must also account for the expectation that, for many students, these credits will be acquired through the completion of coursework in Career and Technical Education as they seek to gain early technical skills in areas of personal interest. Finally, we must assure that students have access to the most current technological learning resources. Information is highly accessible in all disciplines, and it is our objective to account for each and every student having the ability to link to information in the most efficient manner possible. Blaine High School is poised to remain a model for purposeful, engaged and effective learning. The first of three phases of construction will break ground this summer. We can't wait to get started!

Japanese Students Visit Blaine and perform at PAC Primary School Addition to Support Early Learning Emphasis With 10,000 sq. ft. of new classroom space scheduled to be fully operational when school opens in the Fall of the 2016-17 school year, we are very excited about the learning opportunities that our Kindergarten students will experience. Next year will launch our initial transition into providing full-time instruction for all students in Kindergarten. As students, families and staff adjust to students at this level being in school for the equivalency of ninety (90) additional days each year, there have been many questions surfacing specific to what will look different in terms of academic and social experiences. The state of Washington's Office of the Superintendent of Public Instruction (OSPI) has developed the Washington State Full-Day Kindergarten Guide aimed at better defining the full scope of opportunities that kindergarten students will experience in the formal school setting. The Guide, which can be accessed from our District website, is being used as a valuable resource to assist staff and parents with understanding what this new educational endeavor is intending to provide for all students. The initial round of Kindergarten registration took place on March 10, and families who have yet to register their child are encouraged to do so as soon as possible. The new school year promises to be an exciting one for both school and community. Your investment will indeed make an incredible difference for these students and their learning!

On March 20, a group of musical students from Soshin Girls School in Japan will be welcomed to Blaine for a one week stay. Their visit is part of a cultural exchange between our communities, which is being supported in part by the Blaine Fine Arts Association. The Blaine community is invited to take advantage of a unique opportunity to enjoy their performance at the Performing Arts Center on Thursday, March 24 at 7 p.m. You will not be disappointed!

Drama Students Head to State Competition Several Blaine High School Drama students will be going to the WIAA State Drama Competition which takes place March 17-19 at Central Washington University. Nathan Smith, Aaron McInnis, and Kaelar Robins have this opportunity to compete at the state level after their excellent performance in regional competition. Break a leg, Borderites!

Thank You Classified Employees! Blaine School District is pleased to recognize March 14-18 as Classified School Employees Week in honor of the dedicated support personnel who serve the needs of our students. We want to take this opportunity to thank our classified staff for the superior work that they do. Our accomplishments as a school system can be attributed to each and every one of them!

2016 School Calendar MARCH 21 21 28 28

M.S. Academic Assembly, 8:30 a.m. M.S. 4th Sports Season Begins Student Late Arrival – 10:20 a.m. School Board Meeting, 7 p.m. in Point Roberts

APRIL

4 - 8 Spring Break – No School 11 M.S. PTSO Meeting, 7 p.m.

12 14 15 16 18 19-20 19-20 19

P.S. PTO Meeting, 6 p.m. E.S. Concert, 7 p.m. M.S. Spelling Bee, 2 p.m. M.S. Math Championships Student Late Arrival – 10:20 a.m. H.S. Student Led Conferences H.S. Early Dismissal, 11:50 a.m. E.S. PTO Meeting, 6 p.m.

Check out our district website at www.blainesd.org

The Northern Light • March 17 - 23, 2016

Retail pot licensing window to close; no new shops coming to Blaine or Birch Bay By Oliver Lazenby

Join us for Easter Sunday March 27

Services at 8:00, 9:30 & 11:00 a.m. Across from Birch Bay Waterslides

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The Washington State Liquor and Cannabis Board (LCB) has more qualified applicants for new retail marijuana stores than it can legally accommodate and will stop accepting new applications on March 31. The board started accepting new retail store applicants last October to prepare for the end of the medical marijuana marketplace. Medical marijuana dispensaries will have to obtain retail licenses by July 1, 2016 or close, forcing medical customers into the retail marketplace. The new licensing window led to a profusion of new applicants throughout the state and in

Haggen From page 1

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stores in Port Angeles and Puyallup, Washington and Haggen’s pharmacy in Bellingham aren’t part of the deal. Haggen is seeking court permission to begin liquidation sales at some stores. At least one union president thinks the sale to Albertsons will be positive for Haggen employees, who have awaited their fate as Haggen officials delayed an auction for remaining stores four times. “This news will hopefully end the uncertainty for our members and our communities,” said Denise Jagielo, president of United Food and Commercial Workers (UFCW) Local 367, based

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February 29, 6:02 a.m.: Welfare check on Birch Bay Square Street. February 29, 7:07 a.m.: Domestic physical on Helweg Lane. Blaine woman, 48, arrested for fourth degree assault and third degree malicious mischief. March 7, 8:26 a.m.: Assist citizen on Harborview Road. March 7, 8:55 p.m.: Motor vehicle accident non-blocking, non-injury on West Badger Road. Blaine boy, 16, cited for speed too fast for conditions. March 7, 4:07 p.m.: Suspicious circumstances on Birch Terrace Lane. March 7, 5:59 p.m.: Trouble with guest on Holeman Avenue. March 8, 5:44 a.m.: Burglary cold call on Birch Bay-Lynden Road. March 8, 8:47 a.m.: Assault simple on

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in Tacoma. “Our members look forward to continuing their unparalleled dedication to the neighborhoods and their customers.” The UFCW also represents Albertsons employees. Local union officials couldn’t be reached for interviews. The sale is the final move in a series of events that started when the FTC ordered Albertsons to sell 164 stores throughout the western United States so its merger with Safeway wouldn’t hurt consumers by creating uncompetitive market conditions. Haggen bought 146 of those stores and quickly started losing money in them. When Haggen went bankrupt in September 2015 and started selling stores at auction, Albert-

ry, maintained a business license and paid taxes get the highest priority as the board considers new applications. Whatcom County currently has 16 licensed retailers and has received 32 new license applications. Of those pending licenses, 28 are in Bellingham. The board will only issue 13 more licenses in the county. The board caps the number of retail licenses per county and Whatcom County is allowed 29 total, according to data on its website. Statewide, the LCB has more than 1,300 pending retail license applications, but can only issue 273 more.

sons bought back some of the more profitable stores. Now, Albertsons is poised to acquire a package of profitable stores that its brands previously had to compete with, making Haggen’s demise a failure for the FTC. The FTC said in a statement that it’s best for consumers if the 29 stores continue to operate as supermarkets, even if Albertsons owns them. “While the divestitures did not lead to the full result we were looking for – a new supermarket competitor in each market area – most of the divested stores do remain supermarkets,” the statement said. “And it should also be noted that in a number of areas the stores are now being operated by other competitors.”

Whatcom County sheriff’s reports, March 7 - March 13

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Whatcom County. Most of that activity is in Bellingham, however, and no new stores have been proposed for Blaine, Birch Bay or the surrounding area as of March 16. “We are at the point where the number of highest priority applicants will exceed the number of available retail licenses,” said Becky Smith, the board’s licensing division director, in a press release. “We’ll meet the retail cap with priority ones and twos that we’re already processing.” Priority ones and twos refers to the board’s criteria for issuing new retail licenses. Applicants that have previously applied for a retail license, operated a collective garden or medical dispensa-

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Birch Bay-Lynden Road. March 8, 9:10 a.m.: Sex crime no rape cold call on Beachcomber Drive. March 8, 11:44 a.m.: Assist citizen on Birch Bay-Lynden Road. March 8, 12:07 p.m.: Suicidal subject on Lateener Lane. March 8, 3:53 p.m.: Burglary on Arnie Road. March 9, 7:08 a.m.: Burglary cold call on Custer School Road. March 9, 10:59 a.m.: Theft cold call on Birch Bay-Lynden Road. March 9, 11:04 a.m.: Civil standby on Salish Road. March 9, 11:42 a.m.: Trespass cold call on Birch Bay-Lynden Road. March 9, 5:12 p.m.: Suspicious circumstances on Birch Terrace Drive.

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March 9, 10:55 p.m.: Welfare check on East Street. March 10, 4:31 a.m.: Traffic hazard on H Street Road. March 10, 4:41 a.m.: Hit and run cold call on Bay Road. March 10, 5:07 a.m.: Motor vehicle accident blocking on H Street Road. March 10, 9:20 a.m.: Suspicious circumstances cold call on Kickerville Road. March 10, 9:59 a.m.: Civil standby on Salish Road. March 10, 8:37 p.m.: Suspicious circumstances on Beach la Mar Drive. March 11, 4 p.m.: Vandalism on Alderson Road and Sunset Drive. March 11, 5:17 p.m.: Suspicious person on Birch Bay-Lynden Road. March 12, 3:32 a.m.: Suspicious person on Birch Bay-Lynden Road. March 12, 3:59 p.m.: Trespass on Petticote Drive. March 12, 6:43 p.m.: Suspicious circumstances on Birch Bay Drive. March 12, 8:20 p.m.: Shots on Birch Bay Drive. March 13, 12:57 a.m.: Suspicious person on Seaview Drive. March 13, 1:13 a.m.: Drunk on Cottonwood Court. March 13, 4:10 p.m.: Domestic physical on Giles Road. Tacoma man, 18, cited for fourth degree assault. March 13, 6:55 p.m.: Traffic stop on Valley View Road. Blaine man, 26, arrested for driving with a suspended license in the third degree and cited for operating a motor vehicle without insurance. March 12, 6:43 p.m.: Suspicious circumstances on Birch Bay Drive.

March 17 - 23, 2016 • thenorthernlight.com

Car Care WHATCOM

Take a few simple steps to inspect you car and protect it from water damage With heavy rain and floods occurring throughout the country, there’s a possibility that a high water event could damage your vehicle. Even if your vehicle isn’t totally flooded or covered in water, the Car Care Council recommends that owners inspect their vehicles after the waters have subsided to check for damage due to water intrusion or contamination: • Check interior carpets, upholstery and door and trim panels for dampness. If they are wet, then the vehicle will need professional attention. If you simply let the carpet dry, it will quickly grow mildew and give off nasty odors. Seat brackets, motors and modules should also be checked for rust and proper operation. • Pull the engine oil and transmission fluid dipsticks and differential plug. If the fluid appears milky, diluted, is no longer its original color or is beige in color, then it is likely the pans contain water. The vehicle should be towed to your ASE-certified technician or repair shop. Driving the vehicle with water present may damage the inter-

nal parts and require extensive overhaul or repairs. The council reminds motorists that some new synthetic differential fluids may appear to be milky but are not water contaminated. When in doubt, a professional automotive technician should make the

evaluation. • Check the air filter for water. If it is wet, replace the air filter and change the oil. • Check the undercarriage, bumpers, radiator area and frame

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The Northern Light • March 17 - 23, 2016

Wings Over Water Northwest Birding Festival 2016

s Birders scan Drayton Harbor from the Blaine Pier on Marine Drive. The pier was one of several bird viewing stations staffed by volunteers from North Cascades Audubon Society. All photos by Oliver Lazenby

s A volunteer from Sardis Raptor Center in Ferndale shows off a Harris’s hawk named Heyoke during the birding expo at Blaine Middle School. Harris’s hawks are native to the Southwest.

s This barred owl, named Arrow, is a permanent resident at Sardis Raptor Center. It was found injured near train tracks and volunteers think it may have been hit by a train.

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March 17 - 23, 2016 • thenorthernlight.com

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The Northern Light • March 17 - 23, 2016

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HIDDEN GEM

9505 Semiahmoo Pkwy C7A 8621 Blue Grouse Wy 5883 Nomar Pl. 8784 Goshawk Rd. 1154 Fourth St. 8625 Ashbury Ct. 3425 H. St. Rd. $428,000 3-BR, fully furn. wa- $389,000 Charming Semiah- $649,000 Commanding sunset $750,000 Traditional design, $265,000 2 blocks from the $674,000 Exterior stonework $349,000 With 1.61 acres this

terfront condo at Beachwalker is move-in ready. Sweeping waterviews and stunning sunsets. 2 hr. drive from Seattle & minutes from the border crossing to Canada to this peaceful destination. Beachcombing, clamming, kayaking, nature viewing, trails, tennis at your doorstep. Marina, two 18 hole golf courses, restaurants, all within minutes walk or drive.

moo craftsman awaits your discovery. Generous wrap-around porch, delightful, colorful gardens, cozy covered backyard patio. Brand new paint & carpet. 3/2.5 + lots of flex space. American cherry cabinets & flooring. Granite, stainless steel, panty, jetted tub. Large closets, abundant storage, office. 2 car attached garage. Walk to golf, beach.

views over Semiahmoo Bay, solid built home on private drive. Great room--spacious kitchen--nothing but windows & doors wrap around the deck. Every window captures the view. With easy access to your own private beach this home with unobstucted views is equal to waterfront. Level yard with garden beds illustrate the great sun exposure.

this well crafted custom home offers championship views on the Palmer Course at Semiahmoo. Artful combination of textures with good design creates an award winning space that allows for gracious living & practical every day function. Main floor living-spa master with dry sauna, serious office, “inglenook,” Chef’s kitchen-quality appliances.

bay & downtown Blaine! Originally crafted 1894! Today, loaded: Original character embellished w/ timeless current finishes. Large, sunny great room, breakfast nook, granite floor & counters in kitchen, 3 generous bdrms, skylights, 2 new baths, raised panel solid fir doors, molding & millwork, new roof, Hardi siding on the addition, new paint.

& custom double entry doors. Classically built home is welldesigned in the use of space & detail. 3 car garage, 4 fireplaces, private guest suites, high ceilings over-sized windows, custom cabinetry--so many features! And the best part of this rare gem--an outdoor room with fireplace, kitchen & t.v.--rarely seen in the Pacific Northwest! Sun exposure.

custom built 3-BR, 3-BA home gives you plenty of privacy & room to play. Well thought out with all 3 bdrms on main floor, extremely functional & efficient floor plan, with the kitchen taking center stage. Great sun exposure with southerly front facing home. Fantastic gardening space, dog run & yard. Close to town but far enough that you maintain privacy.

Ingrid Andaluz 360-961-0488

Linda Kiens 360-815-6640

Kathy Stauffer 360-815-4718

Linda Kiens 360-961-6640

Kathy Stauffer 360-815-4718

Cole Markusen 360-389-3696

In case of inclement weather, please call agent to confirm open houses.

Great locations to build & live! CALL

HUGH TODAY!

360.371.5800

www.CallHugh.com

SECU

15,000

COVERED MOORAGE

Lowest price ever. Easy Access. Blaine Harbor 46’ x 20’ beam.

350,000 COMM/

RES ACREAGE

2.1 acres commercial. 1.8 acres residential. 7 res bldg sites, 2 water shares. Possible owner contract or JV.

SALT WATER VIEWS

Jacob’s Landing Condo. Birch Bay Drive #504. 2-BR, 1.5-BA, 2 decks, water views, furnished. Investor ready, rented 6 mo’s.

BUILD BIRCH BAY 118,000 LAKE LOT

Mountain views.

38,000

VIEW LOT

Backs to natural sanctuary.

298,000

Fingalson Creek Dr. Ferndale Schools, Water share. All services. Possible owner terms!

R DEER $33,000 N U FF READY TO BUILD! O

All real estate/rentals advertising in this newspaper is subject to the Federal Fair Housing Act of 1968 as amended, which makes it illegal to advertise any preference, limitation or discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, handicap, familial status or national origin, or an intention to make any such preference, limitation or discrimination. This newspaper will not knowingly accept any advertisement for real estate which is in violation of the law. Our readers are hereby informed that all dwellings advertised in this newspaper are available on an equal opportunity basis. To complain of discrimination, call HUD toll-free at 1-800-877-0246.

AFFORDABLE

$159,950

SALT WATER VIEW LOT

2 VIEW ACRES

LE FOR SANER BY OW

26 years experierce working for you!

130,000

www.windermere.com

w/50’ moorage.

FREE HOME 2-BR trailer for $1. Has a new stove which is $600, so for $601 you own it. Pad rental is $500/mo. Call after 5 p.m., 360-319-3489.

Rentals - Commercial

Rentals - Residential

HiBay Warehouse

$140,000

Semiahmoo Golf Course Charmer 8786 Wood Duck Way $418,000 Easy living in a single story on the 2nd fairway of Semiahmoo Golf & Country Club. Open floor plan, easy to maintain mature landscape where nature abounds. Peek-a-boo view of Drayton Harbor. Owner will work with buyers’ agents.

Spectacular floor plan, granite counter tops, tile floor, upgraded cabinets, crown molding, two full baths along with builder pride makes this a must see. Great place to call home or generate rental income. MLS #876705

Gerry Allen 360-920-0563

GerryAllen@windermere.com

Call LeeAnn for details

360-840-4525

www.gerryallen.withwre.com

925 Ludwick Ave. Blaine Call for Available Space Yard Space is Available Truck • RV • Boat • Vehicle Parking/Storage

955 Third St. #201 Water view condo, short walk to “everywhere!”

NELSON BUILDING

BIRCH BAY / CUSTER

3-BR, 2-BA home, Birch Bay Village. Large deck, amenities. New paint and appliances $1195/mo. 5-BR, 4-BA home. Radiant floor heating. Located in Birch Bay Village on Thunderbird Lake $2500/mo.

BLAINE

3-BR, 2-BA APT. Garage, W/D, D/W, stove refrig. W/S paid. Available March 1, W/S paid $875/mo. N/S, N/P, OAC and deposits will apply. WE NEED PROPERTIES TO MANAGE,

360-332-3166 HOUSE FOR RENT in Blaine, 3-BR, 2-BA w/ den, no smoking, quiet neighborhood, fenced yard, dog friendly, $1300/ mo., first & last w/ pet deposit, references, ctc Jack, 360-2013894 or 360-332-8286.

Rentals - Rooms

Want to find the perfect home?

Don Nelson 360-332-2743 www.NelsonBuilding.com

Commercial Lease Ideal street front location in charming Town Square building on H Street. Two spaces available, both w/ private landscaped entrances. starting at $350/mo.

Contact Bill 360-201-2199

Find it in the Classifieds!

March 17 - 23, 2016 • thenorthernlight.com

WSP looking for left lane misuse Washington State Patrol (WSP) is looking for drivers who aren’t using the left lane for its intended uses this week. According to the law, on all roads with two or more lanes moving in the same direction, all vehicles should be driven in the righthand lane unless they’re passing another vehicle, traveling faster than the traffic flow, moving left to allow traffic to merge or preparing for a left turn. Many drivers are unaware that camping out in the left lane can be against the law. In order to combat this problem WSP will conduct statewide emphasis patrols March 16–18 to bring increased awareness to the law. Last year WSP stopped 13,909 left lane law violators, according to a press release.

Car Care... From page 9

for mud, grass, dirt, debris and rust. If any of these are present, the vehicle should be cleaned as soon as possible. • Have the brake system checked by a professional automotive technician. • Check the exterior lights for moisture and water. Replace headlights and bulbs that contain water. • Listen for abnormal noises while the engine is running. Make a note of where the noise is coming from and take the vehicle to a professional automotive technician as soon as possible. Pay particular attention to the alternator, serpentine belt, starter, power steering unit, air conditioner and wheel bearings. • Inspect the suspension joints and lubricate as necessary. Many newer vehicles are lubricated at the factory for life; however, these joints should be checked for rust. “It all comes down to how much water the vehicle took in and where it reached,” said Rich White, executive director of Car Care Council. “By being car care aware and following these simple guidelines, you can help minimize the potential for damage to your vehicle.” The Car Care Council is the source of information for the “Be Car Care Aware” consumer education campaign promoting the benefits of regular vehicle care, maintenance and repair to consumers. For a copy of the council’s Car Care Guide or for more information, visit carcare.org.

OBITUARIES Linnea Rasmussen Mattson

March 22, 1940 - March 10, 2016 Linnea Rasmussen Mattson, aged 75, passed away peacefully on March 10, 2016. Born to Dr. Theo and Florence Rasmussen, she was raised on 16th Street in Bellingham, WA and relocated to Seattle, WA where she attended the University of Washington and was a Husky cheerleader. After 12 years as an administrative assistant at Riddell Williams, Linnea retired to the family home at Birch Bay, WA where she relished spending time with her family, going on car rides, cooking gourmet meals, and organizing 4th of July festivities along Birch Bay Drive. Linnea is survived by her devoted husband Allen, her three girls Candace Mauer (Brian), Tiffany Richards, and Kirsten Stinnett (Eric), her stepdaughters Mindy Simpson and Wendy Mattson, grandchildren Arlie Richards, Emma and Hailey Stinnett, Avery and Addison Simpson, and her sweet kitty Chloe. A celebration of Linnea’s life will be announced at a later date and her ashes will be scattered over Birch Bay, a place she cherished. Please share your thoughts and memories on-line at www.sigsfuneralservices.com

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