The Northern Light: February 21-27, 2019 by Point Roberts Press

February 21 - 27, 2019

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IN THIS

ISSUE

Bay Medical Clinic not expected to close, page 2

Another step taken toward new park along Drayton Harbor

Assessor to retire after 41-year career, page 3

Students heading to state music competition, page 7

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

Bite of Blaine raises funds for July 4 festivities

By Jami Makan

s Community members enjoyed tasty samples at the 19th annual Bite of Blaine, which took place on Monday, February 18 at Semiahmoo Resort. Shown here, Chuckanut Bay Foods, who won judge’s choice award. See photos on page 8.

Photo by Louise Mugar

School district completes state-mandated lead testing By Oliver Lazenby The Blaine school district finished its 2018 state funded lead testing at Blaine Middle School and has since replaced three sink fixtures that tested over 10 parts per billion of lead. In November, the Washington State Department of Health took samples from all 66 water fixtures at the Blaine Middle School. Results came back in December

and the three fixtures the district has since replaced, which were all sink fixtures rather than drinking fountains, had 11, 14 and 15 parts per billion of lead. The state Department of Health requires that districts replace all fixtures that test at 20 parts per billion of lead or more. All fixtures at both primary schools and the elementary school were tested earlier in 2018 and the district replaced any fixtures that tested over 10 parts per billion at those

schools, a self-imposed limit. Of the middle school’s 40 drinking fountains, 38 had 1 or fewer parts per billion of lead. One drinking fountain had two parts per billion and another had four parts per billion. The district doesn’t currently have plans to test fixtures at the high school, superintendent Ron Spanjer said. “As of this year, everything that kids would be drawing water from for drinking

(See Park, page 3)

School board approves bleacher purchase for high school grandstand By Oliver Lazenby The Blaine School Board approved the district to purchase bleachers and a press box for $1.37 million at a February 13 special meeting. The bleacher structure, built by Southern Bleacher of Graham, Texas, will have a total of 2,056 seats, including 232 with backrests and 16 spaces reserved for wheelchair seating. It will also include a roof and a press box that’s 10-feet by 36feet with four separate compartments. The

price includes installation. School was cancelled for snow on the day of the special meeting. Four board members were present at the meeting, and board member Joan Lotze participated over the phone. Board members voted unanimously in favor of approving the bleacher order. Since the district is purchasing the bleachers from a state-approved vendor, it doesn’t need to go through a formal bidding process. The bleachers and press box are one of

two components of the high school grandstand project. The other is the building underneath, which includes concession stands, restrooms, storage, an electrical room and an equipment drying room. That portion of the project should go to bid around March 1, school district superintendent Ron Spanjer said at the February 13 special meeting. The district’s architect for the project, Zervas Architects of Bellingham, estimated the portion under(See Bleachers, page 3)

INSIDE

(See Lead, page 3)

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

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Whatcom Land Trust has acquired a one-acre property located at California Creek in the Drayton Harbor watershed, adding significant shoreline access to property that it already owns in the area. On December 31, Whatcom Land Trust closed on the residential property, which is adjacent to another 11.5-acre property that it purchased in June 2017. The property is located at 4677 Drayton Harbor Road, and was purchased for $350,000, according to Whatcom Land Trust conservation director Gabe Epperson. Together, the two properties will allow Whatcom Land Trust to expand public access along the shores of Drayton Harbor. The goal is to eventually transfer the property to Blaine-Birch Bay Park and Recreation District 2 to create a new recreational park. “Currently, there are two structures out there, and those will be removed at some point, to make room for a park in those areas,” said Whatcom Land Trust communications director Karen Parker. “It’s nice because now the park will include more of the waterfront area.” In a February 1 press release, the trust said that Blaine-Birch Bay Park and Recreation District 2 has agreed to contribute to the purchase with eventual plans to demolish the homes, and to install park infrastructure such as parking, re-

The Northern Light • February 21 - 27, 2019

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Bay Medical Clinic not expected to close Dr. Marta Kazymyra and her husband Dr. David Allan have further postponed their planned retirement, while insurance company Premera Blue Cross undertakes a national search for new providers to take over their practice. The couple has agreed to stay for another three months, until the end of June, while Premera Blue Cross retains a national recruiting firm to search for new physicians to replace them at Bay Medical Clinic, the Blaine practice they opened almost forty years ago. If new providers cannot be

found by then, there is the option of extending for an additional three months until the end of September, although Dr. Kazymyra remains hopeful that new providers will be found before then. “We said we would be willing to stay if Premera Blue Cross would do recruiting,” said Dr. Kazymyra. “They have now been given permission to pay for a national recruiting firm, so things are moving ahead.” Dr. Kazymyra added that she is willing to do what it takes to stay open and ensure a smooth transition. “We feel our patients need somewhere to go, because our

Birch Bay chamber receives grant from county The Birch Bay Chamber of Commerce has received a $100,000 grant from Whatcom County in order to pay for the

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patients and staff are like family,” she said. Initially, the couple planned to keep Bay Medical Clinic open until the end of December. They later postponed this to the end of March 2019, since the clinic’s closure could result in the loss of medical care for an estimated 3,000 patients and jobs for six full-time staff members. Both Kazymyra and Allan are still accepting new patients on a limited basis. “Unfortunately, we cannot accommodate new DSHS and state plan insurance at this time,” said Kazymyra.

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merce have entered into a contract, whereby the chamber will receive $100,000 to “fund the operations of the visitor center” and to “fund the advertising and marketing for annual multiday events designed to promote tourism and overnight stays.” The multi-day events to be promoted include the kite festival (May 25-26), the sand sculpture competition and Rollback Weekend car show (July 20-21) and Discover Birch Bay Days during Fan Fest 2019 (August 16-18). The chamber has received similar grants in past years, specifically $100,000 for 2018 and $86,500 for 2017. However, funding is not guaranteed each year. “My understanding is it’s not a given, and the application for the grant has to be submitted, evaluated and approved each year based on merit,” said Douglas Bennion, executive director of the Birch Bay Chamber of Commerce. Still, Bennion described the funding as essential to the operations of the chamber. “We probably wouldn’t be here, in our current form, without it,” said Bennion, adding that “it is a major source of our funding, along with a parks department grant, as well as our membership fees and individual contributions.”

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February 21 - 27, 2019 • thenorthernlight.com

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From page 1

strooms and a kayak launch. It may take about two years before work begins on the new park, said Epperson. The earlier purchase of the 11.5-acre property in June 2017 was a major step forward for the trust. It was the first time the land trust had lever-

aged conservation funding to finance a land purchase. Whatcom Land Trust has protected more than 20,000 acres in Whatcom County through fee-purchase and conservation easements, working with willing landowners and conservation partners. To date, the trust

protects approximately 430 acres of coastal lands, including Lily Point Marine Reserve in Point Roberts, Point Whitehorn Marine Reserve near Cherry Point, Clarks Point and Teddy Bear Cove near Chuckanut Drive.

From page 1

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State lawmakers passed funding to test for lead in public school water in 2017, after two elementary schools in Tacoma found fixtures with lead levels up to hundreds or even thousands of parts per billion. Childhood lead exposure increases risks for hearing, speech,

learning and behavior problems, brain and nervous system damage and slowed growth and development, according to the CDC. See full test results for Blaine Middle School here: data. • U.S. wa.gov/Health/Blaine-MiddleSchool/92n2-g5u8/

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From page 1

neath the bleachers and press box will cost $2.6 million. The school district allocated $3.14 million total for the grandstand project (both the bleachers and underlying building) in its 2018 levy, but initial estimates for the project came in high. The school board voted at a January

28 meeting to move forward with plans similar to the original design, rather than downsizing the project to make it cheaper. The district expects to pay for any extra cost with contingency money left over from its 2015 bond, Spanjer said. Once the final phase of high school construc-

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tion is completed this summer Leonard D.M. Saunders,Leonard AttorneyD.M. at Law Saunders, Attorney at Law the district hopes to have about $900,000 in contingency money left over from the 2015 bond, which paid for the high school’s construction. For more information on the bleacher design, see bit.ly/ 2ClU80F Fridays, February 22 - April 12 • 1 - 2:30

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Assessor to retire after 41-year career Whatcom County assessor Keith Willnauer will not be seeking a ninth term as assessor. Willnauer will retire at the end of 2019 after a 41-year career in the Whatcom County Assessor’s Office, with 31 years and eight elected terms as assessor. “With a career dedicated to public service, technical advancement, fairness, integrity and operational stability, the current timing for transition is appropriate,” said Willnauer in a February 15 press release. “As a remarkable, record-setting vast majority of 2019’s property taxes are going down, I couldn’t ask for a better

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note to leave on.” In his press release, Willnauer attributed his success to the office’s employees, who he said are not thanked enough for their hard work. “I will miss working alongside them,” said Willnauer. “The Assessor’s Office chief deputy of 28 years, John Romaker, will seek to fill the vacancy and I believe he will serve well.” In a separate February 15 press release, John Romaker announced his candidacy for the position. “Keith has been a model for serving property owners and taxpayers with fairness, integrity and respect,” said Romaker.

“Keith will leave knowing he’s set a high standard for good governance for others to follow.” In his press release, Romaker said the experience he has gained as chief deputy assessor over the past 28 years has equipped him with the knowledge and skills to navigate complex legal and technical issues that are required to lead the office. He said he will continue delivering the same high-quality public service citizens expect, while also exploring and implementing technology advancements necessary for better use of public resources.

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The Northern Light • February 21 - 27, 2019

Opinion

The Northern L ght The Northern Light is published weekly by Point Roberts Press Inc. Locally owned and managed, the company also publishes the All Point Bulletin, covering Point Roberts, Mount Baker Experience, covering the Mt. Baker foothills area, 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.

Birch Bay Liquor Store moves to new location

Publisher & Managing Editor Patrick Grubb publisher@pointrobertspress.com Co-publisher & Advertising Director Louise Mugar lmugar@pointrobertspress.com

s On February 6, Birch Bay Liquor Store opened the doors of its new location at 7868 Birch Bay Drive, the building that used to house Dirty Dog Wash. The store is fully stocked and they are open for business.

Photo by Gwen Roley

Editor Jami Makan jami@pointrobertspress.com Copy Editor Aly Siemion aly@pointrobertspress.com Reporter Oliver Lazenby oliver@pointrobertspress.com Reporting Intern Gwen Roley prpintern@pointrobertspress.com Creative Services Ruth Lauman, Doug De Visser, production@pointrobertspress.com Office Manager Jeanie Luna info@pointrobertspress.com Advertising Sales Molly Ernst, Adam Albert sales@pointrobertspress.com General Editorial Inquiries editor@pointrobertspress.com

The Northern Light 225 Marine Drive, Suite 200, Blaine, WA 98230 Tel: 360/332-1777 Vol XXIV, No 35 Circulation: 10,500 copies

Circulation Independently verified by:

Next issue: Feb. 28 Ads due: Feb. 22

Letters The Editor: Thanks Harriett Lenardson for your letter regarding Birch Bay Drive. About time someone spoke up. I moved up here from Arizona and rented a condo by the bay. I had to laugh at the 25 mph sign, as all types of vehicles didn’t even get close. After I bought my condo, I had a close up view of peaceful ducks and geese, the quiet of a Sunday morning, and the race to and from work several times a day by so many residents. I could tell the tourists from the residents; they were going slowly, enjoying the views. Then came the storm, and I watched the poles and trees being tossed over the road, the traffic still moving for a while until the police blocked the road. The bulldozers did what they could, then the signs went up. Danger, 10 mph beyond this point and

other decorative signs ignored by drivers. The crumbled asphalt is amazing, but no one slows down. 40 mph is their average, and the so-called “one way only” is not observed. Once a police car parked by the 10 mph sign and only then did brake lights appear. Perhaps a traffic camera could be stationed by the damages. If so, I believe the fines could pay for the repairs! Bette Fineman Birch Bay The Editor: Not even six months out from the last election and Doug Erickson is already demonstrating why he should not have been re-elected. How stupid does he think the people in Whatcom County, and by inference, the rest of Washington State, really are? Why would Erickson think we need

special legislation to explain the difference between cows’ milk and soy, almond and other plant based products currently labelled and sold as “milk”? The wording on the existing packaging is already adequate, and this proposal seems to be a huge waste of taxpayer money that could be better spent on, oh, maybe cleaning up Birch Bay’s newly destroyed roads and beachfront? Come on, Doug, you’re supposed to represent all of Whatcom County. Time to show some love where it’s needed! Stephanie Sandercock Blaine Please send letters to letters@thenorthernlight.com no later than noon on Monday.

Birch Bay man buys bus shelter for students By Oliver Lazenby Every morning on his way to work at about 7:20 a.m., Jeff Schamel noticed a crowd of six to eight kids and parents waiting for the school bus, often huddled in the rain, on Anderson Road near its intersection with Beach Way Drive in Birch Bay. “I stopped and asked the kids one day, ‘If someone bought you a shelter, would you take care of it?’” he said. They said they would, so Schamel bought an old Whatcom Transportation Authority (WTA) bus shelter for $200 at Scrap-it Metal Recycling in Ferndale, pressure washed it and hauled it to the school bus stop in early January. A few days later, he found it covered in

caution tape – WTA, which has its own bus stop right next to the shelter, was concerned about Schamel’s shelter. WTA has a process for placing and installing bus shelters to make sure they’re safe and serve the community and this one hadn’t been through the process, said WTA spokesperson Maureen McCarthy. WTA officials met with Schamel and decided they wanted to work with him, as he seemed to have all the right intentions, McCarthy said. So Schamel put a sign on the shelter stating that it isn’t a WTA shelter, and WTA moved its bus stop down the street to alleviate its liability concerns. “I just want to give a shout out to WTA. Look what they did for the kids,” Schamel said.

Now when Schamel drives by on rainy mornings, the kids are under cover and waving at him.

February 21 - 27, 2019 • thenorthernlight.com

Bill pulled after journalists criticize proposal giving the legislature exemptions to public disclosure laws The bill that did pass the legislature in 2018, only to be vetoed by Governor Jay Inslee, had received broad Republican support. Last year’s effort to exempt the Legislature from the Public Records Act followed a lawsuit from multiple media organizations. A Thurston County Superior Court judge had ruled that the legislature was subject to the Public Records Act and had not been in compliance for years. House Minority Leader, Representative J.T. Wilcox (R-Yelm) said the Republican caucus would like to move forward with a version of Graves’ bill. “I think in general our caucus has been for the maximum amount of openness,” said Wilcox. Senate republican leadership took a broad stance on the whole

of the public records act at a press conference, Tuesday. “We need to take a look at the public records in general, not just for the legislature as we go forward,” said Senator Doug Ericksen (R- Ferndale). “We have to make sure that people are getting access to the information they need but we also are not wasting public resources on the frivolous types of demands come in, especially for our local governments.” With the cutoff date for many committees on February 22, a new bill addressing public records would have to be dropped before Friday. “We are going to re-drop the Graves bill because we think it’s important and we think it should move forward,” said Representative Morgan Irwin (R-Enumclaw).

CITY OF BLAINE Unless noted, all meetings are held at City Hall, 435 Martin Street, Suite 4000 and are open to the public. Agendas can be found on the City’s website.

Monday, February 25 5pm – Passenger Vehicle Cross Border Survey Presentation

6pm – Regular City Council Meeting Public Hearing: Proposed Business and Occupation Tax (B&O Tax)

Thursday, February 28 5 pm – Planning Commission Work

Senate passes bill to remove the death penalty been executed in Washington state, according to the Department of Corrections. The last execution took place in 2010.

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Use of School Facilities Policy Discussion Monday, February 25 • 5:30-6:30pm The Blaine School District Board of Directors will hold a work session from 5:30-6:30pm on Monday, February 25 for the purpose of reviewing existing language and recommended adjustments to Policy 4260 Use of School Facilities, as well as its accompanying procedure and fee schedule. The Board will then entertain comments and concerns from those patrons in attendance and will engage in collective and collaborative discussion. The work session will take place in the meeting room at the District Office at 765 H Street in Blaine. Individuals with disabilities who may need a modification to participate in this meeting should contact the District Office as soon as possible in advance so that special arrangements can be made. For more information, call the District Office at 360-332-5881.

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The Senate passed a bill Friday to remove the death penalty from Washington state statute, replacing it with life in prison without parole. Senate Bill 5339 passed with 28 in favor and 19 opposed, with senators Phil Fortunado (R-Auburn) and Lynda Wilson (R-Vancouver) excused. Republican senators Judy Warnick (R-Moses Lake) and Brad Hawkins (R-Wenatchee), and sponsor Maureen Walsh (R-Walla Walla) voting in support of the typically democratic bill. Democratic senators Tim Sheldon (D-Potlatch), Dean Takko (D-Longview) and Kevin Van De Wege (D-Sequium) voted against the bill. The Senate passed a similar bill last year prior to the state Supreme Court declaring the death penalty as applied was racist and arbitrary. The bill was never brought to a vote in the House. Senator Steve O’Ban (R-Tacoma) believes it is possible to create a death penalty that the Supreme Court would approve, saying the Senate has a “lack of will” to find a solution. Senator Jamie Pedersen (D-Seattle) spoke in support of the bill citing the testimony that took place in the Law and Justice Committee which he chairs. Former state Secretary of the Department of Corrections (DOC) Dick Morgan testified in support of the bill in committee on February 5, speaking on behalf of several other previous DOC secretaries. Morgan said hundreds of prisoners have committed similar crimes and were sentenced to life without parole, yet from a management viewpoint they pose no greater risk than those on death row. Since 1904, 78 people have

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A proposal to provide exemptions to the Public Records Act for the Legislature is dead, according to bill sponsor, Jamie Pederson (D-Seattle). Senate Bill 5784 drew fire from media representatives at a public hearing last week. At a press conference Tuesday, Democratic leaders from both the house and the senate indicated that because of the outcry against the proposal, they would not move forward with a public records bill this session. The Senate Bill 5784, proposed by Pederson and signed by six other Democratic senators, was heard by the Senate State Government and Tribal Relations Committee on February 13. Rowland Thompson of Allied

Daily Newspapers and the Washington State Newspaper Publishers Association testified in opposition saying, “We would rather lose the case than have this bill.” Democratic lawmakers cited Thompson and other media representative’s testimony as a deciding factor in not pursuing the bill. “This bill is a nonstarter, there’s nothing to even work with,” said Senate Majority Leader Andy Billig (D- Spokane) of the now dead bill. Republicans plan to put forward a bill based on a measure introduced last year by former District 5 Representative Paul Graves, who lost his 2018 race for re-election. The Graves’ bill would have explicitly added the legislature to the existing public records act and did not add new exemptions for the legislature. The bill never received a public hearing.

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The Northern Light • February 21 - 27, 2019

Sports Aidan Button’s second place finish leads Blaine at Mat Classic By Oliver Lazenby After a season of top finishes, Blaine senior Aidan Button wrestled all the way to the finals match in the state championship at the Tacoma Dome on February 16. His second place finish at 152 pounds led the Borderites to an 11th place team finish. Though he lost by pin in the finals, Button’s victories throughout the tournament showed how far he’s come as a wrestler. He won his first match by pin and the second two by decisions.

That put him on the mat with Owen Enriquez of R.A. Long High School in Longview, who Button wrestled two years earlier in his first trip to state. Enriquez won the 2017 match, but Button dominated the rematch, winning in a 12–2 major decision. Weston Lyver of White River High School won the finals match by pinning Button after a single leg takedown. “I’m happy with how I did and I think I gave it everything I had,” Button said. “My main goal this year was just to have fun and

wrestle as far as I could and I feel like I did both of those things.” Blaine senior Jacob Westfall also placed in the Mat Classic. After losing his third match in overtime, Westfall worked his way up through the consolation bracket to seventh place. “Jacob and Aidan were our top placers all year long. They’re great kids and they were rewarded with places at state,” said Blaine head coach Tom Hinz. “The whole senior class – they’re a great bunch and they all wrestled really well this season.”

Westfall pulled a tendon in his back about a month ago. He was fine at state, Hinz said, but he hasn’t been able to practice at full speed since the injury. Two other Borderites – senior Alex Hall at 138 pounds and junior Gavino Rodriguez at 195 – came up just short of placing in the top eight. Hall pinned his first opponent and beat his second by a 7–1 decision. He lost his fourth match to Cheney High School’s Dylan Straley, who went on to place fourth.

Rodriguez beat his first opponent in an 11–1 major decision and pinned his second. He lost his third match in a fall to Isaac Reavis of W.F. West High School in Chehalis. Rodriguez was leading that match in points when Reavis snagged his arm and pinned him. Reavis went on to place fifth. Blaine’s 11th place finish made it Whatcom County’s top 2A school. Toppenish High School won the state title at 2A, its third title in the past four years.

Season ends for Blaine basketball teams Teams knocked out in first round of playoff games The Blaine High School boys and girls varsity teams both finished their seasons with playoff losses on February 7. The boys lost to Burlington-Edison 79–41 in a loser-out

game at Burlington-Edison. They finished the season with an 8–13 record. The girls lost to Sammamish 71–54 at Sammamish. Their record for the season is 6–15.

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s Blaine’s Aidan Button beat Owen Enriquez from R.A. Long High School in the semifinals at the Mat Classic in Tacoma on February 16.

Photo by Oliver Hamlin

AT H LET E H

OF THE

H NTH MO

Aidan Button Senior • Wrestling

Aidan is a full-time running start student with a 3.75 GPA. He is a captain of the wrestling team and a true leader on and off the mat. Over the season, Aidan accumulated a 45-7 record with 32 pins. In February, Aidan won sub-regionals pinning every opponent. At the state tournament, he was dominant, pinning and winning his way to the state finals and a second-place finish.

s Aidan Button beat Jackson Showalter from Cheney High School in a third round match at the Mat Classic in Tacoma on February 16.

Photo by Oliver Hamlin

February 21 - 27, 2019 • thenorthernlight.com

Television show searching for antique collections in Washington The television show American Pickers is planning to film in Washington in April, and is looking for interesting people and antique collections to feature. The show, which airs on the History Channel, is a documentary series that explores the world of antique picking. The show follows antique and collectible enthusiasts Mike Wolfe and Frank Fritz who travel around the U.S. to buy or “pick” various items for resale, for clients or for their own personal

collections. The pair “hunt for America’s most valuable antiques” and “are always excited to find sizeable, unique collections and learn the interesting stories behind them,” according to Cineflix, the show’s production company. Because the show will be filming in Washington in April, it is looking for leads. It is requesting that you contact them “if you or someone you know has a large, private collection or accumulation of antiques that the Pickers

can spend the better part of the day looking through.” The show is specifically focused on private collections, so stores, malls, flea markets, museums, auctions and businesses open to the public are excluded. The show’s producers can be reached at americanpickers@ cineflix.com or 855/653-7878. Include your name, town, state and phone number, as well as a description and photos of your items.

s Antique enthusiasts Mike Wolfe and Frank Fritz of American Pickers.

Photo courtesy of Cineflix

Louws announces he won’t pursue third term as county executive By Gwen Roley Whatcom County executive Jack Louws has announced that he will not be seeking re-election. Louws’ term ends in January 2020. When he leaves office, he’ll have served as county executive for eight years. The primary election for the next county executive will be in August of this year, followed by a general election in November. Karen Burke, executive director of Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault Services of Whatcom County (DVSAS), announced her intention to run for the open position. Louws served on Lynden City Council from 1990 to 1994 and was the mayor of Lynden from 2002 to 2010.

“My years of public service to Whatcom County have gone by quickly and I feel blessed to have been able to service the community I love,” Louws said in a press release. Louws was elected as county executive in November 2011 and took office in January 2012. He was re-elected in 2015 to serve a second term. The Whatcom County executive is the leader of the executive branch of county government. It is a non-partisan position with a four-year term. According to the Whatcom County website, it is the executive’s responsibility to provide government accountability and administration. The Whatcom County Executive’s Office said Louws will be continuing work on existing

projects until the end of his term. After he leaves office, Louws plans to travel and to continue to support his community. “At the end of my term I’ll be turning over the reins to a new administration. I intend to do whatever I can to make sure that the transition is a smooth one,” Louws said in a press release. Burke announced she will be running for county executive on February 12. She is a graduate of Western Washington University and University of Washington Evans School of Public Affairs and has been the executive director of DVSAS since 2007. Before DVSAS, she was the director of the Lummi Nation Tribal Court where she managed and developed social assistance programs. Burke said she is running with

the hope of making government more accessible. “I think it’s time in government we start hearing from more voices,” Burke said. “I feel like government has been a closed-door system for a while, but in the past two years it feels like some of those doors are opening up.” In her 18 years of executive leadership, Burke said she has made it her goal to bring people from different backgrounds together to find solutions to difficult problems. She hopes this experience will translate to responsibilities of county executive. “I am ready to work with our residents and partners to find and implement the right answers to local issues: affordable housing, living wage jobs, criminal justice reform and crime prevention, ru-

Student musicians heading to state competition Three students from Blaine High School recently performed at a regional solo and ensemble festival. The festival, sponsored by the San Juan Music Educators Association, took place at Bellingham High School on January 26. Timothy Schrader, a senior, performed a tuba solo. Sydney Thrall, a junior, performed a bassoon solo. Stephanie Boczek, a ninth grader, performed an alto saxo-

phone solo. Each student received feedback from a judge, and also received a number rating. Students who place first in each category are invited to perform at the state solo contest in April. Schrader took first place on tuba, Thrall took first place on bassoon, and Boczek took second place on alto saxophone. Schrader and Thrall will now be heading to the state solo contest

in April, where first, second and third places are selected. This is not the first time Schrader will be heading to the state competition. Two years ago, as a sophomore, he placed first at the regional level and third at state. Last year as a junior, he took first place in the regionals and first at state. Bob Gray, band teacher at Blaine Middle School and Blaine High School, said he was very pleased

A proposal to remove and replace statue of state pioneer By Emma Scher, W NPA O l y m p i a News Bureau In the front lobby of Washington State’s legislative building stands a larger-than-life bronze statue of Marcus Whitman, an exact replica of one located in the National Statuary Hall in Washington D.C. This, and other commemorations of Whitman, have come under recent debate about whether or not he is the best representation of Washington’s history. Whitman was a physician who brought many settlers to Washington by covered wagon. In 1847, after a measles outbreak killed many whites and Native Americans, Marcus Whitman and his family were murdered by members

of the Cayuse tribe. Sides disagree on whether this attack was justified legal retribution, or an act of revenge. Rowland Thompson, a Whitman College Graduate, spoke in opposition to Senate Bill 5237, which would create a work group to replace the statues in both capitals. “This bill presumes to do a character assassination on someone who was alive 170 years ago,” Thompson said. “I think that you really need to think this through pretty carefully if you’re going to head down this road.” Whitman has a county, mission, and college named after him in Washington, and is one of the state’s top honorees. The creation of a work group, which according

to the bill would include historians, archeologists and legislators, would cost over $91,000. State Government and Tribal Relations chair Sam Hunt (D-Olympia) suggested that SB 5237 would not move past committee. The bill’s prime sponsor Senator Reuven Carlyle (D-Seattle) said that the goal of the bill was simply to start a conversation about the issue. Four other Democratic senators from western Washington signed on to the bill. “I think we benefit from looking at our history and recognizing that we as a society embrace ideas and images that fit the times in which we live,” Senator Carlyle said. “There’s a healthy, open civic discourse. This is what makes a healthy democracy.”

with all of the students. “They are all great musicians,” said Gray.

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The Northern Light • February 21 - 27, 2019

Bite of Blaine was a big hit The 19th annual Bite of Blaine took place on Monday, February 18 at Semiahmoo Resort. Sponsored by the Blaine Chamber of Commerce, it featured food

from local eateries as well as live and silent auctions to benefit Blaine’s Old Fashioned Fourth of July. Photos by The Northern Light staff.

s Paso Del Norte served delicious Mexican food.

s Brandon Rowley, Marc Eilberg and Alan Finston of the Vault Wine Bar with the Best of the Bite trophy.

s Big Al’s Diner served butter chicken, samosas and Hawaiian chicken burgers.

s Trudy Norquist and Kathy Sitker of the Blaine Senior Center. BRIDAL & EVENT FAIR

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s Semiahmoo Resort provided samples of smoked fish and other dishes from their restaurants.

See full calendar of free community events at whatcomreads.org Author visits Whatcom County March 7 & 8

s Bidding during the live auction with auctioneers Gary Tomsic and Mike Kent.

February 21 - 27, 2019 • thenorthernlight.com

Lawmakers propose watercraft restrictions to save southern resident orcas By Sean Harding, W NPA O l y m p i a News Bureau Lawmakers, whale watchers and environmentalists reached a rare consensus at a hearing on a proposed speed limit for boats operating near Puget Sound’s endangered southern resident orcas this week. However, they were less successful when it came to measures that would restrict commercial and other whale watching activities in the area. Senate Bill 5577 would make it illegal for a person to operate a vessel over seven knots in speed within a half nautical mile of southern resident orcas. It would also be unlawful for any whale

watch vessel to approach within 650 yards of the orcas until January 1, 2023. Current regulations prohibit vessels from approaching within 200 yards of a southern resident orca or positioning themselves within 400 yards of the expected path of the animals. The bill was introduced in the Senate by 10 Democratic senators, with Senator Christine Rolfes (D-Bainbridge Island) as the prime sponsor. The bill incorporates several recommendations from the Southern Resident Orca Task Force, which Governor Jay Inslee formed last year to develop a long-term plan for protecting the species. A companion bill also has been introduced in the House. “Why do we need to quiet the

waters?” asked Todd Hass, who led the vessels working group for the task force. “Because orcas are highly-auditory animals and take advantage of the typically great benefits of using sound-based signaling and hearing rather than vision.” Watercraft operated by the federal government would not be subject to the regulations, nor would state, local and tribal vessels conducting law enforcement, search and rescue, and public safety missions. The bill would also establish a permit system for whale watching operations in the inland waters of Washington. With permitting, regulators could refine the distance, the number of vessels and amount of time spent with the whales. The annual fees would

range from $425 to $2,925 depending on the number of passengers carried. Only some operators with previous whale watch experience in Washington waters could be licensed. “Slow boats are quiet boats,” said Shane Aggergaard, captain and general manager at Island Adventures Whale Watching, who has been operating tours since 1996. “My 30-meter catamaran that carries 150 passengers is quieter than my 28-foot Boston Whaler.” Aggergaard said he agreed with the speed limit but opposed the 650-yard viewing distance for whale watch operators. “If you increase the viewing distance, it’s essentially a moratorium,” he said. “If you have a moratorium, there won’t be boats on scene to lead as an example.”

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Like depression, it’s unclear whether social isolation is a symptom or cause of dementia. However, evidence is growing that social isolation is a risk factor for dementia and it increases the risk of hypertension, coronary heart disease, and depression, researchers found. People need a cognitively enriched environment to keep the brain in good health, and if they don’t see people or can’t hear them, they get less of that stimulation. Isolation can also lead to a new phenomenon known as fatal loneliness. Humans are a fundamentally social species. A lesser-known fact is that it can be fatal for humans to be alone. Social isolation is becoming a leading cause of early mortality. Solstice Senior Living prides itself on keeping our residents socially engaged in our vibrant community. Call to learn more about our social activities.

“They do act as a sentinel around those whales,” said Steve Finney, vice president of the Recreational Boating Association of Washington. “They are professional. They know what they’re doing, and the recreational boaters do respect them for that.” The bill’s supporters said that given the precariousness of the orcas’ continued existence, every measure should be taken to ensure their survival. “The Southern residents are looking a lot like the canaries in the coal mine in the Salish Sea and Puget Sound,” said Captain Alan “Hobbes” Buchanan, a Friday Harbor-based whale watch operator. He said he closed his whale watching business last October when he said he realized he was “part of the problem.”

before the Annual Enrollment deadline of December 7th? Will I still be able to change plans now that my doctor doesn’t accept my Medicare Advantage plan?

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program to meet your specific needs. Range of motion and strength measurements may be taken during the physical therapy evaluation. The following are several treatment methods a physical therapist may use to help limit or relieve both knee and hip pain. Manual Physical Therapy – Several hands-on techniques to reduce pain in your hips and knees. This could include stretching exercises or a variety of massage techniques. Heat & Ice Physical Therapy – Heat is often used during physical therapy to help increase mobility and lessen pain and ice to reduce swelling and inflammation. Ultrasound Therapy – Provides deep heating in the tissues. A trained physical therapist can also more easily identify problem areas by using ultrasound. Laser Therapy – Increasingly being used in physical therapy for pain management. It can help increase circulation, improve the growth and reproduction of cells, and can reduce swelling. Home Exercises – A physical therapist can teach you exercises to do at home to alleviate hip and knee pain. Physical therapy techniques can be incorporated into a home exercise program that can become part of your daily routine. Physical therapy treatment may be able to help you remain pain-free and as active as possible. A physical therapist can create a customized program to treat your particular condition.

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The Northern Light • February 21 - 27, 2019

Pet Care Tips and products for a healthier, happier pet!

Prevent lost pets with these simple tips No pet parent wants their pets to escape the house, car or yard and become lost. But curious pets have a way of getting out on their own, which not even the most watchful pet owners can always prevent. The American Humane Association estimates that more than 10 million dogs and cats are lost or stolen in the United States every year. One in three pets will become lost at some point during its life. While it is impossible to prevent every sit-

uation that may lead to a lost pet, pet owners can take some simple preventative steps to keep pets from becoming lost. Identify the pet Pets should wear some form of identification, which will differ based on the animal. For example, a dog can wear a collar and a name tag. A homing pigeon or other bird may have a numbered ankle band. Many pet owners choose to microchip their pets. These small devices are implanted under the skin and can

be read by a special electronic wand. If you microchip your pet, it is essential to keep your contact information associated with the chip updated. Track the pet GPS-based devices can be used to locate a pet if it gets out of the house. Much like the tracking devices in phones and watches, small tags can be placed on the pet’s collar and be tracked through an app on the owner’s smartphone or another computer device.

Provide a secure space Pets need a secure, supervised area to exercise. Fencing needs to be tall enough to prevent pets from jumping over it. Make sure pets cannot dig under the fence and that fence gates are always latched tightly. Self-latching fence gates can be handy. Indoors, be sure to close doors promptly when exiting and entering the house. Be mindful of pets trying to escape. Use a leash or carrier When the pet is taken out of

the house, he or she should be leashed or secured in an animal carrier. Many pets have a strong prey instinct and love to chase animals. Keeping pets close by can keep them from getting lost or injured. Spay and neuter According to the Animal Humane Society, studies indicate that sterilized animals are less likely to roam than unsterilized animals. Many clinics will perform the surgery for a discount; some may even do it free.

need to spend more time indoors when the weather is harsh. Dietary changes may need to be made. Older pets may eat less, but they should be fed high-quality, nutritious foods that help keep their weight in check. Excess weight can put added stress on sensitive joints and may contribute to problems with diabetes. Veterinary Pet Insurance, a division of Nationwide Insurance Company, says there are new, alternative treatments available for aging pets, often used to treat pain, pet arthritis and cancer. Cold laser treat-

ment directs light to stimulate cells and increase blood circulation to ease aches and pains. Medical acupuncture can help reduce pain and inflammation. Radiosurgery can target cancerous tissue with a very high dose of targeted radiation while avoiding doses to surrounding tissue. In addition, monoclonal antibodies can be attached to cancer cells to boost natural immunity to cancer and germs. Older pets require different care and more patience. Owners of aging pets should speak with their veterinarians about caring for pets as they grow older.

Navigating aging with senior pets

Spunky pups and curious kittens draw the attention of people eager to welcome new pets into their families. As pets begin to age, owners of senior animals may find that they struggle with their pets’ emergent needs in the later stages of life.

Senior pets may experience dementia, mood changes, inactivity, pain and incontinence. Thanks to improved veterinary care and dietary habits, pets can live longer than ever – and remain comfortable well into their senior years. Cats and dogs are generally considered geriatric at the age of seven, offers the American Veterinary Medical Foundation. Even so, many pets go on to live 12 to 15 years, which can be the equivalent of age 75 to 85 in humans. Geriatric pets are susceptible to the same conditions seen in older people, including

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cancer, diabetes, weakness, senility, joint or bone diseases and heart disease. It is essential to keep an open dialogue with a veterinarian to discuss any potential health issues aging pets may encounter. According to veterinary behaviorist Nicholas Dodman, coauthor of “Good Old Dog: Expert Advice for Keeping Your Aging Dog Healthy, Happy and Comfortable,” pet owners must realize that older pets are less able to thermoregulate, so they’re more sensitive to extreme temperature changes. Pets may need blankets or sweaters. They also may

Common conditions that can affect dogs Responsible dog owners ensure their four-legged friends are in good physical health. This involves taking dogs to the veterinarian at regular intervals, providing healthy food options and being aware of the more common (and largely preventable) conditions that can affect dogs. Ear infections: Dogs that scratch at their ears, continually shake their heads or have an odor in the ear might have ear infections. In such instances, vets will clean, drain and medicate the ear canals. Heartworm: Heartworm is a parasitic worm that lives in the heart and pulmonary arteries. The worms travel throughout

the bloodstream and can harm other vital organs. Medication can prevent heartworm infection, which oftentimes is transmitted through mosquito bites. Parvovirus: Many dogs come in contact with parvo by touching or ingesting the feces of an infected dog in close quarters. Symptoms include vomiting, weight loss and lethargy. Parvo is highly preventable with a vaccine. Rabies: This viral disease affects the brain and spinal cord of all mammals. Once symptoms appear, rabies is close to 100 percent fatal, warns the ASPCA. Vaccination is essential to prevention, and most areas require rabies vaccines by law.

Fleas: Fleas are parasitic blood-suckers that reside on the coats of pets. Scratching, hot spots, hair loss and tapeworms (which are carried by fleas) can be symptomatic of flea infestation. Some people may notice actual fleas on their dogs, while others may identify the flea dirt against a dog’s skin. Flea prevention medicines and medicated shampoos can help keep fleas at bay. Diabetes: While not entirely preventable, as diabetes can be caused by either a lack of the hormone insulin or the body’s inadequate response to insulin, pet owners can manage the disease with the right foods and insulin injections.

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February 21 - 27, 2019 • thenorthernlight.com

NEXT ISSUE: Feb. 28

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In the Superior Court of the State of Washington In and for the County of Snohomish, In the Matter of the Estate of: LORA LEE KIER, Deceased. NO. 19-4-00172-31, PROBATE NOTICE TO CREDITORS RCW 11.40.030 The ADMINISTRATRIX named below has been appointed as Administratrix 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 Administratrix or the Administratrix’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 (30) days after the Administratrix served or mailed the notice to the creditor as provided under RCW 11.40.020(1)(c); or (2) four (4) 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 non-probate assets. DATE OF FIRST PUBLICATION: FEBRUARY 7, 2019. ROBIN M. WOELZ Administratrix Attorneys for Personal Representative/ Address for mailing or service: Mark A. Jelsing, WSBA #46398 JELSING TRI WEST & ANDRUS PLLC 2926 Colby Avenue, Everett, WA 98201

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Construction

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SUPERIOR COURT OF WASHINGTON FOR SNOHOMISH COUNTY Estate of DEBRA ANN WOOD, Deceased NO. 18-4-02047-31 PROBATE NOTICE TO CREDITORS RCW 11.40.030 PLEASE TAKE NOTICE 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 non-probate assets. DATE OF FIRST PUBLICATION: FEBRUARY 07, 2019. Personal Representative: Nicholas D. Fisher, WSBA 40716 The Law Offices of Nicholas Fisher 1812 Hewitt Ave, Ste 101, Everett, WA 98201

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The Northern Light • February 21 - 27, 2019

Real Estate

Windermere Real Estate/Whatcom Inc. 8105 Birch Bay Square St. • I-5 Exit 270, Blaine 360.371.5100

BLAINE, BIRCH BAY & SEMIAHMOO

SEMIAHMOO SHORE OPEN HOUSES OPEN DAILY 12 - 5

B I R C H B AY V I L L AG E OPEN SUN 2-4

OPEN DAILY 12 - 5

OPEN SUN 2-4

Spectacular Contemporary Design! 8133 Skagit Wy $624,900

9432 Turnstone Ln. #33

$795,000

Semiahmoo Shore’s most affordable Sunrise Home, 2025 Square feet w/luxurious Owners suite on main flr & 2-BR & full bath upstairs. 14’ Vaulted great room. Finished in “Driftwood” design scheme including Linear fireplace, quartz countertops & all appliances included. Wide Plank White Oak Hardwood flooring. Attached Dbl. garage. Miles of beaches & walking trails. Minutes to U.S./Canada Border; under 2-hour drive to Seattle. MLS# 1201035

Lisa Kent 360-594-8034

$825,000

9436 Turnstone Ln. #35

Semiahmoo Shore 2187 sq. ft. “Sunrise” home w/ soaring 12’10” ceilings in great room & large windows taking full advantage of views over the Open Space meadow & Drayton Harbor. Wide Plank Flooring, Linear FP, quartz countertops, stainless appliance package, dbl. garage w/expoxy floor & Covered patio. Miles of beaches & walking trails connect with this exclusive gated enclave of fine homes. Minutes to US/ Canada border. MLS# 1201008

Mike Kent 360-527-8901

DIRECTIONS: Exit 270 West on Birch Bay-Lynden Rd., R on Harborview, L on Lincoln Rd., to Semiahmoo Pkwy., Semiahmoo Shore on Left. For more information visit www.SemiahmooShore.com

Beautiful brand new custom “Wiebe Construction” home in popular Birch Bay Village. Features include circular drive, oversize garage, RV & boat parking, covered patio. Leading Interior Design elements by Markie Nelson! Top of the line fixtures, appliances & finish work throughout. Hardwood flooring, granite & Quartz countertops, extensive tile work, floor to ceiling Ledge Stone fireplaces & the list goes on! This guard gated community includes marina, clubhouse, tennis, pickleball, pool, golf course & private beaches. Come home to a vacation! MLS #1325317. Directions: I-5 Exit 270 – West on Birch Bay Lynden Rd., to left on Harborview to right on Birch Bay Drive continue to Birch Bay Village on Left.

Beautiful Partial View of Island & Sound! Ideal single level home w/bright sunny exposure, large fenced back yard + garden shed. Great room design, solid wood trim throughout, vaulted ceilings, French doors to 3rd bed/ den, arched doorways, gas fireplace. Spacious kitchen w/breakfast bar & pantry. Hardi plank siding. Great location & walking distance to beach access & staircase. MLS #1398968. Directions: I-5 Exit 270 – West on Birch Bay Lynden Rd., to left on Harborview to right on Birch Bay Drive continue to Birch Bay Village on Left.

Well built custom home located on the golf course in popular Birch Bay Village. Warm southern exposure, 3 bed, 2.5 baths, granite counters, huge luxurious master suite, formal dining rm could be office or 4th bdrm, crown moldings, security system, RV garage w/ 10’8” door, fully landscaped, fully fenced backyard, fresh paint on exterior, lots of parking. 24-7 security, community amenities include marina, clubhouse, swimming pool, private beaches, This one has it all!

Mike Kent 360-815-3898

Billy Brown 360-220-7175

8049 Kispiox Rd $399,800

8285 Cowichan Rd $579,000

SEMIAHMOO OPEN HOUSES OPEN SAT & SUN 12-3

OPEN SAT & SUN 12-3

OPEN SAT 12-2

5463 Wood Duck Loop $699,990 5449 Wood Duck Loop $679,990 5439 Wood Duck Loop $799,990 5445 Wood Duck Loop $897,880

New construction at Semiahmoo! 3 bed 2 bath + den, mid-century modern style single level home w/ sharp facades & clean lines. Open, expansive floor plan, 10’ ceilings, 8’ glass doors, no steps & wide hallways make this a perfect ‘forever home’. Euro-style kitchen w/ grand island. Outdoor room w/ fireplace. Enjoy AC; in-floor radiant heat under Luxury Vinyl Plank; and, the latest in materials & high efficiency appliances. A 3 car garage (710 sf.) is perfect for extra storage or hobby space.

New construction at Semiahmoo! 2 bed, 2 bath + den, mid-century modern style single level home w/ sharp facades & clean lines. Open & expansive, 10’ ceilings, 8’ glass doors, no steps, wide hallways & an 1,105 sqft garage! Space for 5 cars or make the third bay your workout studio, hobby shop, art gallery, you name it! Gourmet Euro-style kitchen w/ grand island. Outdoor rooms w/ gas fireplaces. AC & in-floor radiant heat under Luxury Vinyl Plank & the latest in high efficiency appliances.

New construction @ Semiahmoo! 2 bed 2.5 bath + den, mid-century modern style single level home w/ sharp facades & clean lines. Open & expansive, 10’ ceilings, 8’ glass doors, no steps, wide hallways, the perfect ‘forever home’. Gourmet kitchen w/ grand island & butler pantry. Signature outdoor rooms w/ gas fireplace. Mother-in law suite. Enjoy AC & in-floor radiant heat under Luxury Vinyl Plank. Super high efficiency appliances & materials. 4 car garage, perfect for storage or hobby space.

New construction @ Semiahmoo! 3 bed 3 bath + den, mid-century modern style single level home w/ sharp facades & clean lines. Open & expansive, 10’ ceilings, 8’ glass doors, no steps, wide hallways make this a perfect ‘forever home’. Gourmet kitchen w/ grand island & prep kitchen. Double master suites! Covered outdoor rooms w/ gas fireplace. Enjoy AC & in-floor radiant heat under Luxury Vinyl Plank. Super high efficiency appliances & materials. 4 car garage is perfect for storage or hobby space.

Brandi Coplen 360-201-3951 & Kathy Stauffer 360-815-4718

360-920-0563

GerryAllen@windermere.com

2748 Peace Portal Dr., Blaine, WA 98230 $140,000

1339 Wilson Ave.

$320,000

HIGHWAY COMMERCIAL

WAREHOUSE

PRE-SALE OPPORTUNITY location is everything, I-5 visibility. Zoned Highway

360-201-2428 360-332-6400

Commercial, industrial type ware houses with Blaine services, whether business or personal storage, interior can be built to suit your needs. Large overhead doors, electric door openers, gas furnace and upper windows, bathroom and upper mezzanine an option. Site will have phone cable, internet, 3 phase. When finished will have chain link fence and security gate. Seller may carry contract.

Rentals - Commercial

Rentals - Rooms

Sam Freeman

BIRCH BAY Room, private bath, W/D, $650/month + $650 deposit. Incl. utilities, Internet. 301-793-6341.

NELSON BUILDING 4,000 SF Available 1790 Boblett Street, Blaine Office Loading Dock 3 Large Truck Doors 3-Phase Electricity Fenced & Paved Yard Don Nelson 360-332-2743 Email nelsbldg@msn.com

Newest Semiahmoo Shore waterfront home with soaring vaulted great room design & expansive full width covered patio featuring full height stone fireplace & ample room for shoreline entertaining. All the exceptional design elements you’d expect at Semiahmoo Shore with fantastic guest suites on both main & upper floors. All main living on entry level, gated luxury at Semiahmoo spit with incomparable saltwater & mtn. views.

Lisa Sprague 360-961-0838

Call Hugh -360.371.5800

8105 Birch Bay Square St. - Blaine, WA 98230

MLS #1393882

Fabulous waterfront Top Floor Luxury residence newest “Marin” Building. Incomparable Inland Pacific Sunsets & City Lights. Private waterfront balconies w/elevator service to rare dbl storage areas in secured garage. Next to Washington’s #1 destination Resort & Spa. Golfing, Marina, miles of pristine beaches to explore. Minutes from US/Canada Border & under 2.5 hr drive from Seattle. Exquisite craftsmanship & design w/ magazine quality finishes including Chef’s kitchen. Too many features to list.

For Blaine, Birch Bay & Bellingham Real Estate

PRICE REDUCED!

NEW ON MARKET.

9464 Turnstone Ln #40 $1,095,000

www.windermere.com

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

Great newer home, open floor plan, sky lights. Fully fenced and private, yet near town.

9535 Semiahmoo Pkwy #B301 $868,000

OPEN SUN 12-5

Place your ad in

CLASSIFIED MARKETPLACE call 360-332-1777

FURNISHED ROOMS Historic home. Incl. amenities, NS, pet friendly, $550/mo. + deposit, references required, 360-3323449. LAW ENFORCEMENT, Border Patrol and Firefighters visiting the Blaine area for special assignments or training. Monthto-month. Bed/bath only. Located in a nice complex near border. Larger room $950/mo, smaller room $600/mo. Call 360-734-8191 for info.

ADVERTISE YOUR GARAGE SALE! CALL 360-332-1777

Hugh Brawford

21 ACRES On Kickerville at Headwaters on Terrell Creek

$200,000

Some residential zoning, currently in open space, also in CREPS program. Earning roughly $3,000 per year. Owner contract is possible at 20% down, 6.5% 30 year Amortization. Wet lands credit transfer? Recreational? May be eligible for 503 use. WATER SHARE AVAILABLE.

G D I NT I O N PENPEC INS

G TIN

4235 Sweet Rd. • Blaine $415,000 Private circular driveway takes you through 85 year old cedar forest to this solid cedar sided home. • Includes 2nd lot ready for new construction • 3 Beds, 1.75 Baths, 2 Wood Fireplaces • Pond with access to Spooner Creek

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.

2290 Douglas • Ferndale $625,000

High Density - Multi-Family Property

Recently upgraded home w/main level living. New furnace. ONE ACRE, short plat for < 31 UNITS. Next door lot also for sale possible up to 53 units if combined. Water sewer hook ups +/-$10,000 per unit +one meter for 16unit building. Level dry land. Next door available- up to 53 units possible if combined.

Semiahmoo Marina boat slips AVAILABLE!

www.CallHugh.com

FIND IT IN THE CLASSIFIEDS

February 21 - 27, 2019 • thenorthernlight.com

Real estate firm plans to donate to local charities

O B I T U A RY John Sand

s Steve and Julia Mullenix of Peace Arch Real Estate.

By Jami Makan A new real estate firm in Blaine plans to donate a percentage of its commissions to local charities. Peace Arch Real Estate, founded by Steve and Julia Mullenix about one year ago, plans to donate five percent of its commissions to local charities including the Blaine Food Bank, the Healthy Youth Coalition, the Community Assistance Program and Grace House. The real estate firm will make the donations in their clients’ names, and will let their clients choose which charities will receive the donations. “We want to keep the list of charities local and small,” said Steve Mullenix, who relocated to Blaine with his wife and business partner Julia about one year ago, in order to start the new firm. The couple, who have three young kids, were looking for an affordable town where they could live within walking distance from the school and other community institutions. “We were looking for a smaller town and a slower pace of life,” said Mullenix, adding that he really admires the “sense of community” in Blaine. He previously worked with

Photo by Jami Makan

other real estate companies in Bellingham. Earlier in his career, he worked as a high school teacher in Lummi Nation for about seven years. “It’s a tough place to work,” he said. “There’s a lot of social issues there, such as high poverty, high drug and alcohol dependence and high teenage pregnancy rates, but it’s probably the most rewarding thing I’ve ever done professionally.” Mullenix, who studied history at Western Washington University, was also in the Navy from 1995 to 2000. He worked on the U.S.S. Enterprise aircraft carrier and traveled to the Persian Gulf and the Mediterranean on sea duty. In Bellingham, Mullenix worked for other real estate firms, so starting his own business, Peace Arch Real Estate, was a hectic experience at first. The company has been licensed since January 2018, but it took them about three months to get off the ground and finally open their doors. “It was all brand new to us,” he said. “There’s a lot of red tape and hurdles to get through, and you wonder, ‘Are we going to make enough sales to cover our cost?’” Fortunately, the company had a better-than-expected year, with

21 sales between March and December 2018. The company expects to more than double this in 2019, assisted by their growing team of real estate professionals. Peace Arch Real Estate is currently adding new agents, including two from Buy the Bay Realty, which is closing this week, bringing their total to eight agents. Real estate agent Denice Velasquez confirmed Buy the Bay’s closure, but said she looks forward to being part of a new team and continuing her real estate practice. “I like doing real estate, and I’m excited to work with Steve and Julia,” said Velasquez. From its headquarters in Blaine, Peace Arch Real Estate serves all of Whatcom County. “We’re getting calls almost every day now, as people start to recognize our brand,” said Mullenix. Mullenix attributes his company’s success to the personal relationships he and his wife Julia, who is on the board of the Blaine Chamber of Commerce, have formed in the community. “At least our business so far has been very personal and very connected to people we know,” he said. “This business is all about trust, and people refer people to agents who they trust.”

June 11, 1942 - February 11, 2019 John Sand was born in Whatcom County on June 11, 1942 to parents Agnes Jakobsdottir and Einar Evan Sand. He passed away peacefully from CNS Lymphoma on February 11, 2019. He has been a long-time resident of Blaine. His mother immigrated from Iceland, and his father came from Norway. John was the youngest of five children and grew up in Point Roberts and in Blaine. He attended Blaine High School, Western Washington University, and received his Masters in Psychology from Antioch University in Seattle. John liked to travel. He journeyed to Spain, Egypt, Mexico, and Iceland. He lived in New York City, New Orleans, Seattle, and Portland, but came back to live permanently in Blaine in the mid 1980’s. He worked as a teacher, as a counselor, and as a specialist with developmentally disabled people. He was self-employed as a real estate investor and landlord. John was a vegetarian and believed in honoring all living beings. He loved all his dogs, from Frasier and Miguel, to Jack, Jill, and Buddy. He enjoyed his design projects and seeing his vision become reality. An early evening swim at Birch Bay was a favorite summer activity. John is survived by his daughters, Katherine Kalafus and Evelyn Kalafus-Mastenbrook of Seattle; his friend of forty years, Patricia Kalafus and her wife, Jan Chiles; numerous cousins in Iceland; and relatives and friends in the Blaine and Bremerton areas. A celebration of John’s life will be held at the Blaine Boating Center on March 10, 2019 from 2-3 pm. Donations in his name may be made to the Alternative Humane Society in Bellingham.

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The Northern Light • February 21 - 27, 2019

Coming up

Coloring for Good Health: Friday, February 22, 3–4:30 p.m., Blaine Public Library, 610 3rd Street. Enjoy quiet contemplation or casual chit-chat with other coloring enthusiasts. All materials provided, but feel free to bring your own if you’d like. Meets the second and fourth Fridays of the month. Info: 360/305-3637.

Tides

Saturday, February 23, 7:30 p.m., Mt. Baker Theatre, 104 N. Commercial Street. Hop across the border for a highly spirited showing of song and dance with Canada’s reigning family of Celtic music masters. Info: mountbakertheatre.com. Live music at The Lounge: Saturday, February 23, 9 p.m.–1 a.m., The Lounge at Silver Reef Casino. Raucous.

Foreign Policy Forum: Friday, February 22, 1–2:30 p.m., Blaine United Church of Christ, Riedel Wine Glass Event: Sunday, 885 4th Street. This week’s topic: Walled February 24, 4 p.m., The Vault Wine Bar, Off: Global Migration. Info: 360/332-6906. 277 G Street. Learn the proper shape Pasta and Lights: Friday, February 22, 5:30 and bowl of glassware and how it makes a different in your wine experience. $60 p.m., Blaine Senior Center, 763 G Street. includes set of three Riedel wine glassDelicious spaghetti dinner with garlic rolls, es, tastings and appetizers. Reservations dessert, beverages and live music. Tickets required: 360/392-0955. $12 adults, $6 kids 9 and under. All proceeds benefit the Blaine Senior Center. Info: Wellness with Essential Oils: Monday, 360/332-8040. 5:30–6:30 p.m. Bay Medical Center, 377 Congresswoman Suzan DelBene Forum: C St., Blaine. Topic: Digestive and Detox. Info: Denise Magnusson 360/961-1337. Saturday, February 23, 11:45 a.m.—12:45 p.m., Blaine City Hall, 435 Martin Street. Semiahmoo Women’s Club Happy Hour: Thursday, February 28, 4–6 p.m. Garden Design: Saturday, February 23, at the Semiahmoo Golf & Country Club. 10 a.m.–12 p.m., Blaine Public Library, 610 $15 includes appetizers. Women from all 3rd Street. Learn best placement areas communities welcome. RSVP required to for fruit-bearing trees, bushes, vines, and B.J. Windrum at 817/600-4192, young. vegetable gardens. Class covers hardscape drum@hotmail.com. assessments, sunlight observations, and air flow. Presented by Blaine C.O.R.E. (Blaine Orchards for Resources and Education). Pro- Kinky Boots: Thursday, February 28, 7 gram repeats on Wednesday, February 28, 4 p.m., Mt. Baker Theatre, 104 N. Commercial Street. Info: mountbakertheatre.com. to 6 p.m. Info: 360/305-3637. Lynden Bridal and Event Fair: Sunday, February 23, 10 a.m.–2 p.m., Grandiflora Home and Garden, 719 Grover Street, Lynden. More information on Facebook @ lyndenbridaleventfair.

Blaine Community Blood Drive: Friday, March 1, 8:30 a.m.–2:30 p.m. (closed 11 a.m. to 12 p.m.), Bloodmobile in Cost Cutter parking lot, 1733 H Street. To schedule an appointment, please call 800/398-7888, or visit schedule.bloodworksnw.org and use sponsor code 1632. You can also download the Bloodworks donor app on your smartphone to link your donor profile and schedule future appointments! Walk-ins also welcome.

Beatlemania/Beatlemedia: How Talent, Timing, & Technology Created The World’s Biggest Musical Sensation: Saturday, February 23, 2–3 p.m., Blaine Public Library, 610 3rd Street. Cultural and media historian Lance Rhoades will deliver an engaging look into the whys behind the wild Persistence of Light: A Memoir: Satursuccess of the fab four. Info: 360/305-3637. day, March 2, 10:30–11:30 a.m., Blaine Public Library, 610 3rd Street. Author John Hoyte recounts his uncommon life Natalie MacMaster & Donnell Leahy: adventures - from his childhood in China Visions from Cape Breton and Beyond:

Crossword ACROSS

1.Submit 7. When you hope to arrive 10. Ducks 12. Ancient Dead Sea region 13. Hatch 14. Genus of finches 15. Knifes 16. Towards the oral region 17. Bitter-flavored beer 18. Brews 19. Hideouts 21. Where one sleeps 22. Unbroken view of a region

27. Hammer is one 28. Racing legend 33. Commercial 34. Understood by just a few 36. Global design effort 37. Portuguese folk song 38. Traditional woven cloth 39. Oil barrel (abbr.) 40. Cupbearer of the gods 41. Spiritual leader of a Jewish congregation 44. Dabs 45. Bedspread 48. Visionary 49. Prime Ministers

to a Japanese prison camp in World War II, to leading a British expedition over the Alps with an elephant, to being an entrepreneur and inventor in Silicon Valley. Info: 360/305-3637. Birchwood Garden Club’s March Meeting: Wednesday, March 6, 7 p.m., Whatcom Museum Rotunda Room, 121 Prospect Street. Topic: “The Education of a Garden Traveler,” with Marty Wingate. Info: birchwoodgardenclub.org. Semiahmoo Men’s Breakfast: Thursday, March 7, 7:30 a.m., the Great Blue Heron. Coffee, big breakfast $15. All men are welcome. This week’s speaker is Whatcom County executive Jack Lowus. Small Farm Expo: Saturday, March 9, 9 a.m.–2 p.m., Haggen Expo Building at NW Washington Fairgrounds, Lynden. Talks, exhibitors, soil and compost demos, veterinary and agriculture experts and financial resources. Keynote speaker: author and farmer Rebecca Thistlethwaite. Free and family friendly. Info: whatcomcd.org/small-farm-expo. Wings Over Water NW Birding Festival: Friday – Sunday, March 15-17. Field trips, workshops, presentations, cruises and kids activities. For complete schedule of events and locations: wingsoverwaterbirdingfestival.com. Beermaker’s Dinner: Sunday, March 31, 5–8 p.m., The Vault Wine Bar, 277 G Street. Five courses paired with five Atwood Ales’ beers. $55. Reservations required. 360/392-0955. Toastmasters Meeting: Tuesday nights, 6:30 p.m., Christ Episcopal Church, 382 Boblett Street. Visitors encouraged. Community Meals: Wednesdays, 5–6:30 pm, Blaine Community Center, 763 G St. Everyone welcome! No charge for dinner, donations accepted. Sponsored by the Community Assistance Program. Info and menu: blainecap.org. Submissions to Coming Up should be sent to calendar@thenorthernlight.com no later than noon on Monday.

February 22-28 at Blaine. Not for navigation. 49° 0’ 0”N - 122° 46’ 0”W

DATE TIME HEIGHT TIME HEIGHT Fr 22 12:54 am

0.1

7:38 am

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9.9

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2.2

8:37 pm

7.9

Su 24 2:24 am

2.9

8:46 am

9.6

3:33 pm

1.6

9:55 pm

7.6

Mo 25 3:14 am

4.3

9:20 am

9.3

4:29 pm

1.3

11:23 pm

7.4

Tu 26

4:08 am

5.5

9:58 am

8.9

5:27 pm

5:16 am

6.4

We 27 1:03 am

1.1 7.6

10:40 am

8.5

6:29 pm

0.9

Th 28 2:31 am

8.0

6:48 am

6.9

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Weather Precipitation: During the period of February 11 to 17, 1 inch of precipitation was recorded. The 2019 year-to-date precipitation is 2.88 inches. Temperature: High for the past week was 51°F on February 16 with a low of 17°F on February 11. Average high was 40°F and average low was 27°F.

Courtesy Birch Bay Water & Sewer Dist.

Police Reports 50. Criticize 51. Teeter

17. Payroll company 18. Conductance unit 20. Fifth note of a major DOWN scale 1. Bird genus 23. Prepares 2. A baseball team 24. Yellow-fever mosquitos 3. Taxis 25. Partner to Pa 4. Baseball stat 26. They __ 5. Insecticide 29. Canadian province 6. Midway between (abbr.) east and southeast 30. Official 7. Icelandic poems 31. More colorless 8. Rocker Rundgren 32. Goodies 9. Doctors’ group 35. Sanders was one 10. Inform wrongly 36. Talkative 11. TVs used to have 38. Rips apart one 40. Chinese Muslim 12. Long-__: donkeys 14. Weasel-like mammal 41. Rapid eye movements 42. Song 43. Spent it all 44. Somber 45. Cycles per second 46. Naturally occurring material 47. “Orange is the New Black” character

February 3, 3:28 a.m.: Officers responded to a residential alarm. Officers found a front door open and tool marks on the door. Officers searched the house and did not find anyone inside and the residence appeared undisturbed. The homeowners were notified. February 3, 3:03 p.m.: Blaine police were dispatched to a hit and run involving three vehicles. The suspect was contacted a short distance away and arrested for DUI and hit and run.

February 3, 3:12 p.m.: While investigat-

ing a man for hit and run allegations, the responding officer determined that the man was driving under the influence. The man was arrested and booked into jail on hit and run and DUI charges.

February 7, 1:33 p.m.: Officers responded to a hit and run unattended vehicle in the 400 block of Peace Portal Drive. Officers arrived and spoke to the victim who advised she did not want to press charges. Officers documented the damage and advised the victim to contact her insurance company. Officers cleared.

February 11, 8:59 a.m.: Blaine police

were dispatched to a single vehicle, non-injury collision. Police arrived to find a truck nose first in a ditch. The driver had been going too fast for the icy conditions and slid about 30 feet. The driver had already called a tow truck. Police stood by until the vehicle was removed from the ditch. It was determined that damage to the truck was a reportable amount. A police collision report was completed.

February 11, 2:31 p.m.: A man called

police after receiving an email scam. The scammer said he had images of the victim looking at pornographic websites. The scammer demanded $987 in bitcoin. The man did not pay the scammer any money.

ANSWERS AT THENORTHERNLIGHT.COM

February 11, 6:21 p.m.: An officer observed a vehicle stuck in the snowy weather in the 1300 block of H Street. The officer stopped and assisted the driver. It was

determined that a tow truck was needed. A tow truck later arrived and moved the vehicle so that they could go on their way.

February 11, 10:27 p.m.: Blaine police

were dispatched to the 5400 Block of Snow Goose Lane where a disoriented man had driven onto the sidewalk and gotten stuck. Officer contacted the man who was experiencing medical complications. North Whatcom Fire and Rescue was dispatched to evaluate the man. Officers advised the man to deal with getting his truck out the following day.

February 12, 12:56 p.m.: A person

called to report that a suspect in a vandalism might have been seen driving around her home. A neighbor is the one who thought she spotted the man, but police were not called while the vehicle was in the area. A frequent patrol request was made and will be provided as available.

February 13, 3:13 p.m.: Blaine police

responded to the intersection of Garfield Avenue and Cedar Street for a report of a vehicle running over a stop sign and getting stuck in someone’s yard. The driver then fled the scene. Officers arrived and determined who the driver was and convinced the man to return. The man was found to have two outstanding warrants for his arrest, on top of being charged with hit and run and driving with a suspended license. The man was booked into jail.

February 14, 4:30 p.m.: A verbal altercation over a cigarette between neighbors lead to one neighbor allegedly pulling his pants down and exposing himself and yelling at the other neighbor. Officers arrived and took a statement from the complainant. The suspect was cited and released pending court hearing. February 14, 11:40 p.m.: Officers

responded to a vehicle in the ditch. It was determined the driver slid off the roadway after hitting ice. The vehicle was towed out and appeared undamaged.

Report by the Blaine Police Department

February 21 - 27, 2019 â&#x20AC;˘ thenorthernlight.com

The Northern Light • February 21 - 27, 2019

Representative Shewmake’s first bill focuses on electricity disclosure By Jami Makan State representative Sharon Shewmake (D-Bellingham) has sponsored legislation that would help utilities keep track of their energy sources and disclose them more clearly to consumers. Shewmake’s first bill as Whatcom County’s new state representative is House Bill 1428, which seeks to improve fuel mix disclosures that are provided by utility companies. These disclosures are generally provided on utility bills that consumers receive, and they state what percentage of energy came from wind, coal, hydro, nuclear and so forth. Fuel mix disclosures are akin

to the ingredients list on a can of processed food, but are currently structured in a way that can make them vague and difficult for consumers to understand. Shewmake’s goal was to add clarity and transparency for the benefit of all parties. “Washingtonians clearly value clean energy,” Shewmake said. “But when you turn on your toaster, it’s hard to know what the source of that energy is. You don’t know if the electricity is being generated here in Washington, in British Columbia or in Arizona. You don’t know if it was produced by wind, coal, hydro or what. This bill will help utilities keep track of their sources and disclose them in a simple format, and it will help

consumers have a better idea of where their electricity is coming from.” Shewmake said that the bill is one step in the right direc-

office at 360/416-7879 or her Bothell office at 425/485-0085. Congresswoman DelBene, a democrat, represents Washington’s 1st congressional district, which spans from northeast King County to the Canadian border, and includes parts of King, Snohomish, Skagit and Whatcom counties. Congresswoman DelBene was first sworn into the U.S. house of representatives on November 13, 2012 and currently serves on the ways and means committee.

is one of those ducks.” HB 1428 passed the full House on a 96-0 vote on February 14 and now heads to the Senate.

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Congresswoman to host community forum U.S. congresswoman Suzan DelBene will be hosting a community forum in Blaine on Saturday, February 23. The forum will take place at Blaine City Hall, 435 Martin Street, from 11:45 a.m. to 12:45 p.m. and is open to the public. If anyone has questions, requires special accommodations or is in need of either a Spanish or ASL translator, they can email Kaylee Galloway at kaylee.galloway@mail.house. gov. They can also call the congresswoman’s Mount Vernon

tion toward cleaner electricity for Washington. “To talk about 100-percent clean electricity, we’ll have to have all of our ducks in a row,” she said. “This

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