FREE
Community Newspaper of Blaine and Birch Bay
April 9 - 15, 2020
HHHECRWSSHHH Postal Customer
IN THIS
ISSUE
Local group sewing masks and helping seniors, page 6
How to stay connected with the arts, page 7
Gateway property deal amended by city, page 10
PRSRT STD U. S. Postage PAID Permit NO. 87 Blaine, WA 98230
Blaine schools gear up for months of remote education after new state order By Oliver Lazenby The Blaine school district anticipated governor Jay Inslee’s April 6 decision to extend the state’s K-12 school closures for the rest of the school year. Blaine superintendent Christopher Granger said that while remote learning can’t replace being in a classroom, the district is already planning for the rest of the year. “This is about what we expected,” he said. “It’s not ideal but it’s better to know and be able to move forward and get a plan going for the remainder of the year.” On March 13, Inslee ordered schools in Washington state to close from March 17 until April 24 to slow the spread of the new coronavirus. The Blaine school district’s last day of in-person education was March 13. Since then, the district has offered optional “enrichment opportunities” on its website and many teachers have contacted students and families. On Monday, April 13, the district will start on a more rigorous education plan. Though Inslee and state schools superintendent Chris Reykdal touted the challenge as an opportunity for innovation and stressed the importance of improved internet connectivity in meeting the challenge, (See Schools, page 3)
s Dozens of Blaine residents participated in a drive-by parade on April 4 celebrating Michaela Long’s 16th birthday. The parade included first responders, community members and one of Michaela’s favorite teachers. See our story on page 2.
Photo by Molly Ernst
Coronavirus cases continue to rise in Whatcom County By Oliver Lazenby Over the past week, the number of confirmed COVID-19 cases in Whatcom County grew from 129 on March 31 to 238 on April 7, according to the Whatcom County Health Department. Nineteen in the county have now died from the respiratory illness; 12 of those deaths were reported in the past week.
As of April 6, there were 8,682 confirmed cases in Washington state and 394 deaths from the virus, according to the state department of health. Washington was an early epicenter in the U.S. coronavirus outbreak, but now about 10 states have more confirmed cases than Washington. As of April 7, there were more than 386,000 cases in the United States and 1.4 million around the planet, according to the Johns Hopkins
Coronavirus Resource Center. Recent numbers indicate that new transmissions of the illness may be slowing in Washington, and on April 6 the University of Washington’s Institute for Health Metrics and Evaluation (IHME) released a new, lower prediction of the total number of COVID-19-related deaths. The new analysis said the state can expect about 632 deaths, down from an earlier (See COVID-19, page 13)
By Jami Makan A man was arrested in Blaine in connection with the investigation of a vehicular homicide that allegedly took place on April 4 in Acme, Washington. At around 8 a.m. on April 4, two dog walkers at Acme’s South Fork Park called 911 after noticing what appeared to be a human body lying in the middle of a gravel access road in the park, according to a Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office (WCSO) news release. WCSO deputies arrived on scene and
FIND OUT
discovered that the victim had suffered significant trauma. They began an investigation and asked for people to contact the WCSO tip line if they had any information about what may have occurred in the park between 6 p.m. on April 3 and 8 a.m. on April 4. After notifying next of kin, WCSO identified the victim as 21-year-old Darian Sather of Sedro-Woolley. “Ms. Sather received serious traumatic injuries after it appears that she was struck by a motor vehicle in a parking area” at the park, said an update provided by WCSO. “Ms. Sather
WHAT’S OPEN
and two friends had gone to the park to meet with several other individuals between the hours of 6 and 7 a.m. [on April 4]. During the course of the meeting, the other individuals attempted to steal $250 from Ms. Sather and she attempted to stop them by reaching into the vehicle to grab her money back. The suspects took off at a high rate of speed with the victim clinging to the door. As they attempted to flee, Ms. Sather fell from the door and was struck by the vehicle and killed.” (See Murder, page 3)
INSIDE
Man arrested in Blaine on suspicion of murder
Letters . . . . . . . . . 4 Classifieds . . . . . 11 Crossword . . . . . . 14 Police/Sheriff . . . 14 Tides . . . . . . . . . . 14
TheNorthernLight.com
ThisFLYERS Week’s
Rite Aid Haggen Food & Pharmacy
A FREE online service offered by The Northern Light keeping you up-to-date with who’s open, what business specials are available and current hours. Businesses, sign-up for FREE at: northernlight.whatsopenhere.com (see details on page 15)
SEE WHAT’S OPEN AT: thenorthernlight.com
2
The Northern Light • April 9 - 15, 2020
Drive-by parade celebrates Blaine teenager’s 16th birthday By Grace McCarthy On April 4, dozens of community members came together to give Michaela Long, who has underlying pulmonary conditions that put her at high risk for respiratory illnesses, a surprise 16th birthday party, quarantine-style. The vehicle lineup for the driveby birthday parade was organized by Michaela’s sisters, Meghan and Sabrina, at the Northwood Alliance Church on C Street. It started at noon before heading toward the family’s home where Michaela and her mother, Robin Peterson-Long,
were standing outside. Although the surprise had been leaked to Michaela before the parade, she said she was shocked by the number of people who helped her celebrate her landmark birthday. When planning the parade, Michaela’s mom, Robin Peterson-Long, had hoped friends, family members and neighbors would attend. To the family’s amazement, teachers, strangers and first responders also drove by in their vehicles. Passing by Michaela in their cars, they paraded signs that said everything from “You go girl” to “Wishing you the best birthday.”
Michaela said her favorite part of the parade was being surprised by seeing one of her favorite teachers in attendance. Other parts of her birthday included a breakfast waffle bar and her sister making dinner later that night. “It was really cool because everyone came for just me,” Michaela said. “It’s cool seeing people do stuff for someone else.” Michaela’s mom had brainstormed the event after seeing viral stories about similar parades across the country. Parade-goers showed creativity with their vehicles and decorations. The parade was led
with a mini semi-truck that did donuts in front of Michaela’s house, followed by a surprise police car and ambulance flashing their lights, a community member on a scooter and many others honking and waving. “It was pretty moving,” Robin Peterson-Long said. Peterson-Long said the parade showed that the Blaine community can come together to support one of their own. She wanted to thank everyone who helped make Michaela’s Sweet 16 special. “My favorite part was everybody who came, people who I didn’t know,” Peterson-Long said.
She said it touched her seeing her daughter get excited at every car that passed. Michaela’s sister Meghan said it was great to see how many people reached out to her to pass on good messages to Michaela if they were unable to be there in person. “I’m really grateful for how everyone pulled together to make this such a great day for her,” Meghan said. “She talked about it the entire day.” A video from the drive-by parade is available on The Northern Light’s Facebook page at facebook.com/TheNorthernLight.
Semiahmoo Easter To-Go
April 12
| Curbside Pickup 3 – 6 PM | Semiahmoo Golf & Country Club Enjoy a 3-course Easter dinner to-go from Great Blue Heron Grill. Call 360-371-7015 ext. 4 to place your order. Orders must be placed by noon on Friday, April 10.
8720 Semiahmoo Parkway • Blaine, WA
LOCAL HELPS LOCAL.
WECU is committed to the philosophy of “people helping people,” especially in times of need. That’s why we’re offering a Crisis Relief loan for anyone financially impacted by Coronavirus.
Learn more at: wecu.com/Coronavirus
April 9 - 15, 2020 • thenorthernlight.com
Schools ...
he said. “We’ve decided to give the most kids possible an education.” The governor asked districts From page 1 to get as creative as possible in Blaine schools aren’t waiting for meeting student needs. His order includes a provision that makes improved internet. “That’s our biggest challenge. it possible for districts to conThere are some areas in our dis- sider on-site education for some trict where internet is a real chal- students who have severe challenge, even for staff,” Granger said. lenges, he said, and some form of Some parts of the district don’t summer school may be an option even have reliable cell phone re- for districts “once we get over ception, so the district is using a this pandemic,” he said. Through reaching out to famivariety of techniques to reach its 2,150 students. Schools sent pa- lies and evaluating its education per packets out to students who programs constantly, the district need them on April 6 through the will try to make instruction as eqmail, and it’s distributing about uitable as possible, Granger said. “If a family has a need, we want 400 Chromebook laptops to students, as well as mobile hotspots to hear from them and we want that allow computers to access to make sure we get the need adthe internet through cell phone dressed or find the opportunities data. Teachers with subpar inter- to help them,” he said. “We know net access are recording lessons on distance learning is not a substivideo, saving them to USB drives tute for being in school, but we’re trying to do the best we can.” and mailing those to students. Blaine schools will use a pass/ In the April 6 announcement, in which the state joined at least fail model, even for high school. 13 others in canceling classes for Based on what Reykdal has said, the rest of the school year, Inslee Granger thinks that won’t affect recognized that a system of re- seniors’ ability to graduate or get mote learning will be unfair. Ac- into college. Inslee and Reykdal have said cess to technology, home life and that seniors who were on track other factors will affect learning. “To some degree, I suppose we to graduate when schools closed have to make a decision. Are any will graduate. They reiterated that of our children going to get an during the April 6 announcement, education or are none of our chil- and Inslee also said that teachers dren going to get an education?” would make independent deci-
sions about students’ knowledge and ability to meet standards. “The state board of education is poised to waive some of those credits for students who absolutely need that,” Reykdal said in a YouTube Q&A earlier on April 6. “But it does require a good faith effort. We can’t just put our pencils and pens down and say, hey, we’re done. We’ve got to work through this. Seniors, I’m counting on you to keep learning.” For college-bound students, the ACT and SAT will be pushed back, Reykdal said. For AP classes, Reykdal said the Advanced Placement program will continue and the organization is working on shrinking the test so that students can do it in a 45-minute window, he said. “I actually think it’s very good that this country is now examining its obsession with standardized tests for admission to higher education,” Reykdal said. He added that his office is working with colleges and testing companies to make the admission process easier. “Obviously grades are still important for scholarships and other things, and we’re committed to that, but right now we’re unified across the sectors,” he said. “We’re trying to make kids successful and the testing companies have recognized that in some way as well.” S An eagle soaring high above Birch Bay.
The governor did not rule out the possibility of some form of in-person gatherings at schools before the end of the school year. “If there is any opportunity to bring students back for a few days later this year, including graduation ceremonies for seniors, we’re going to explore that option as the evidence continues to come in,” he said.
Either way, Granger said the district would find a way to celebrate its seniors. “We’re proud of them and proud that they’re Borderites,” he said. “We’ll partner to find a way to honor them in some fashion, because they’re certainly very important to us and our school community.”
Take & Heat Entrees APRIL 14 RIBEYE FRENCH DIP with house salad & au jus APRIL 15 CHICKEN TIKKA MASALA with lentils and roasted vegetables APRIL 16 NORTHWEST MAC & CHEESE with house salad APRIL 17 SMOKED BRISKET with baked beans and potato salad
$15 each
(before tip & tax)
15% OFF ENTIRE BEVERAGE MENU Growlers available.
Call us at
360- 961- 3987
to order, pay & schedule curbside pickup 277 G Street
Visit website for updated details.
www.thevaultwine.com
Photo by Chuck Kinzer/CKimageart.com
CITY OF BLAINE CITY MANAGER’S OFFICE 435 Martin Street, Ste. 3000 l Blaine, WA 98230 Phone: (360) 332-8311 l Fax: (360) 543-9978 www.cityofblaine.com
To the Citizens of Blaine, I am writing to update you on the operations at the City of Blaine offices. Under the “Stay Home, Stay Healthy” order from Governor Inslee, City Hall, Public Works, and Police offices are closed to the public. However, City of Blaine staff are still working, either from home, from the office, or in our community completing necessary maintenance, essential construction, and public safety activities.
Murder ... From page 1
While investigating the case, WCSO detectives obtained information that led them to believe a Whatcom County man had been driving the vehicle that struck and killed Sather. At approximately 2:15 a.m. on April 6, members of WCSO contacted 47-year old Brent Gerber at a location in the 8400 block of Harborview Road in Blaine. He was taken into custody without incident and his white 2000 Mazda truck was seized as evidence and impounded. Gerber was booked into the Whatcom County Jail on investigation of first-degree murder. As of April 7 at 9:30 a.m., WCSO was seeking the public’s help in locating an additional suspect, 25-year-old Payton Mulryan. Mulryan was described as a Caucasian male who is six feet tall and weighs 160 pounds with brown hair and blue eyes. He normally hangs out in the Lynden, Everson and Bellingham areas, WCSO said. If you have information on Mulryan’s whereabouts or the incident, please contact 911 or the WCSO tip line at 360/778-6663.
We will continue to work to provide services and maintain facilities for the public good and I expect that we will continue under the same general operations until the order is lifted.
CITY OF BLAINE Due to COVID-19 and the Governor’s Proclamation, meetings are now only open to the public telephonically. Information on how to listen to the meeting live will be on the City Council agenda which is located on the City’s website homepage under Your Government, City Council, City Council Agenda.
Monday, April 13 6:00pm – Regular City Council Meeting
Monday, April 27 6:00pm – Regular City Council Meeting
Monday, May 11 6:00pm – Regular City Council Meeting
Tuesday, May 26 (Monday the 25th is Memorial Day) 6:00pm – Regular City Council Meeting All City offices are currently closed to the public. Contact information for staff and Councilmembers can be found on the City’s website. Call (360) 332-8311 or visit our website.
www.cityofblaine.com
This is a difficult time. We are all are worried about our health and safety and about the health of our friends, neighbors, and loved ones. We are all worried about our jobs, paying bills, and our future. Despite this uncertainty, I have a deep faith in our community and I know the more we work together and support one another, the better we will all be for it. I ask that you to be kind, look out for your friends and neighbors, and through your actions help others see Blaine as the great community we all know it to be. I have heard from many of you that Blaine is on the cusp of something great. Businesses are moving in and growing. Downtown is seeing a renaissance. Homes are filling in on vacant lots, and neighborhoods are expanding. Our achievements face a major obstacle in the form of COVID-19, but this is an obstacle we can overcome. I urge you to support your local businesses. You’ll be glad they are still here when this is over. We are trying to make things a little easier. The City Council has authorized relief measures and is offering help. We will be offsetting all credit card fees charged to City utility bills paid on line. There will be no utility shut-offs for lack of payment during the emergency and we have waived late payment penalties. If you are having trouble paying your bill, please contact our Utility Billing department. If you can pay your bill, please do so. As public servants, City employees work to help make the lives of Blaine residents, visitors, property owners and business owners better, safer, more comfortable, and more successful. We are proud of the work we do, and we will keep at it through these difficult times. Please shop local and thank you for continuing to make the best of a strange and difficult situation. Sincerely, Michael Jones Blaine City Manager
3
4
The Northern Light • April 9 - 15, 2020
Letters
The Northern L ght The Northern Light is published weekly by Point Roberts Press Inc. Locally owned and managed, the company also publishes the All Point Bulletin, covering Point Roberts, Mount Baker Experience, covering the Mt. Baker foothills area, Pacific Coast Weddings annual guide, and the summer recreation guide Waterside as well as maps and other publications. Point Roberts Press Inc. is a member of the Washington Newspaper Publishers Association, Chambers of Commerce of Bellingham/ Whatcom County, Birch Bay, Blaine and Point Roberts and the Bellingham/Whatcom County Convention and Visitors Bureau. The opinions expressed by contributors are their own and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the editors. Letters Policy The Northern Light welcomes letters to the editor. Please include name, address and daytime telephone number for verification. Letters are limited to 350 words and may be edited or rejected for reasons of legality, length and good taste. Thank-you letters are limited to five individuals or groups. Writers should avoid personal invective. Unsigned letters will not be accepted for publication. Requests for withholding names will be considered on an individual basis. Consumer complaints should be submitted directly to the business in question or the local chamber of commerce. Only one letter per month from an individual correspondent will be published. Email letters to letters@thenorthernlight.com. Publisher & Managing Editor Patrick Grubb publisher@pointrobertspress.com Co-publisher & Advertising Director Louise Mugar lmugar@pointrobertspress.com Editor Jami Makan jami@pointrobertspress.com Copy Editor Aly Siemion aly@pointrobertspress.com Reporter Oliver Lazenby oliver@pointrobertspress.com Reporting Intern Grace McCarthy prpintern@pointrobertspress.com Creative Services Ruth Lauman, Doug De Visser production@pointrobertspress.com Office Manager Jeanie Luna info@pointrobertspress.com Advertising Sales Molly Ernst, Kristin Siemion 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 XXV, No 42 Circulation: 10,500 copies
Circulation Independently Verified by:
Next issue: April 16 Ads due: April 10
The Editor: Because of COVID-19, the Fisherman’s Memorial Committee event, “The Blessing of the Fleet,” has been postponed. The memorial committee has decided that rather than cancel the Blessing of the Fleet for the whole year, we will try and do it on Sunday, September 20. The Alaska fleet will be home by then and everyone will be getting ready for the Puget Sound crab season, which starts on October 1. Hopefully this will give the community an event to look forward to. So for those fishers who will likely be leaving for Alaska and some for the coastal fisheries soon, please know that we are praying for your safety and a bountiful season. For the community, we look forward to being together again in September. Please be safe and stay healthy. Gary Dunster on behalf of the Fisherman’s Memorial Committee Blaine The Editor: I am grateful that our government has recognized the need to help families during this time of company shutdowns and isolation. Many would be forced out of their homes or would go hungry without this financial assistance. I am surprised, however, that someone like myself will be getting a check. I receive Social Security and a small pension that will not stop because of the COVID-19 virus. The check from the U.S. Treasury is a windfall for me and it may be for you too. If it is, I would like to offer ways, and gently urge you, to donate at least a portion of that extra money. The Salvation Army helps in many ways to support our community. You can mail a check to the Blaine Food Bank, 500 C Street, Blaine, Washington 98230. Meals On Wheels delivers meals to seniors, keeping them safely in their homes amid the COVID-19 outbreak. The Red Cross is another example. Like everywhere else, donations to the Humane Society have dropped off significantly. Old Dog Haven is a non-profit that provides homes for elderly animals whose owners can no longer care for them. First Book is working on getting seven million books to kids in need for home learning. This is a great service now that schools have closed. You can donate to support public television or even this newspaper. Look around; surely you will find someone or something that will touch your heart and help ease those dollars away from you! Those of us on fixed, guaranteed incomes are fortunate that our monthly checks have not been affected by this virus when so many others are in need. So please, consider using some of this money to help others even if it’s just to pay for a bag of groceries for a neighbor with a house full of kids. This is a time not just for isolation, but also for caring and sharing. Linda Eko Huberman Blaine The Editor: A friend told me yesterday how she and her partner are planning to use their stimulus checks. Twice a week they will order take-out from Blaine restaurants. They are retired homeowners in Blaine, have a “freezer full of food” and want to support local businesses. She also just purchased new tires from NAPA Auto Parts on D Street because they are a Blaine business. I think this is just this side of inspirational. Colleen Marie Blaine The Editor: On average over the last nine years, more than 37,000 Americans per year have died
from the flu or from complications resulting from the flu. During that same period, more than 40,000 Americans per year committed suicide. In 2018 alone, more than 67,000 Americans died from drug overdoses, with a yearly average of over 40,000 for the same nine-year period (Source: CDC’s National Center for Health Statistics). What these numbers give us is perspective and hopefully, upon rational evaluation of the risks, the wisdom to determine the appropriate course of action. What the numbers also mean for those most vulnerable (and assuming that the number of those infected with COVID-19 turns out to be similar to those historically) is that they are more likely to die dealing with the challenges of everyday life than they are from contracting the coronavirus. Diseases such as the flu have long been with us, as have drug overdose and suicide, and yet our response to the coronavirus is unprecedented. Why? What has changed? The greatest change is that this disease has been politicized. The media coverage for COVID-19 has been, for political purposes, intentionally selective, resulting in a skewed perception of the available data. Instead of showing all the data, only the most sensational is publicized. This misleading coverage is then disseminated via social media, creating an exaggerated herd response resulting in even reasonable people beginning to doubt themselves. Meanwhile public officials rush to respond with restrictive measures which may prove to be even more destructive than the disease itself. How many of the millions of people who will lose their jobs and businesses as a result of the shutdown and the panicked media coverage will turn to alcohol, drugs or even suicide for a way out? Those numbers will be difficult to estimate now but they will show up next year in CDC data, after it is too late. One possible solution: nationwide testing beginning in areas hardest hit, to determine which people have been exposed and resolved or have not been exposed and can return to work. Dan Rudolph Blaine The Editor: During this unprecedented time of chaos and uncertainty in so many people’s lives, I was brought into a sense of normalcy and routine as I read The Northern Light’s police reports. Someone received a mental health check; a suspicious person was trespassed; neighbors having a dispute. Even in a pandemic, some things remain the same. During these uncertain times, in which more compassion and caring is required of each of us, I wonder how many neighbors are involved in disputes with one another over dogs barking, excessive noise or other issues. Can we lean into our discomfort and look at our own behavior – am I negatively impacting others? What can I do differently? And most importantly, what can I teach my children about empathy and compassion? As a licensed social worker and mental therapist with more than 15 years of experience working with teens and families, I know that children learn what they live. If we are to have hope for the future, we owe it to our children to teach them to have compassion for others – to allow our teenagers to say hello to a neighbor who is passing by at a safe distance rather than to turn away with indifference. After all, the opposite of love isn’t hate, it’s indifference – seeing others as invisible or less than. Parents have a choice as to whether they model kindness or indifference. I reflected on the experience that we are all sharing – many of us have lost our jobs, our sense of security and daily routine. Kids have lost opportunities to participate
in sports activities and other important extracurricular events. Physical distancing, which is necessary to save lives, has limited our ability to interact socially with our friends and loved ones. I wonder what kind of world we can create if we turn this very challenging and stressful time into an opportunity to practice caring and kindness with our neighbors, our communities and beyond. Jill Newman, MSW, LICSW Blaine The Editor: Twenty four reasons why I will support The Northern Light newspaper with a donation: 1. It is full of community information on our neighborhoods and businesses in Blaine and Birch Bay. 2. It shares educational information for parents that at times students don’t always share. 3. It shares weekly information on events for families and tourists to attend. 4. It promotes health and wellness which encourages happy lifestyles. 5. It provides classified advertisements for individuals looking for services. 6. It shares updates on city council meetings, keeping the citizens informed about city actions. 7. It offers up-to-date information about who’s open, what business specials are available and current hours, too. 8. It welcomes letters to the editor for readers to share their opinions and express themselves. 9. It keeps homeowners informed of utility service updates and road closures. 10. It keeps those who attend church updated on special services throughout the year during holidays. 11. It highlights the seasonal news in the community throughout the entire year. 12. It brings in tourists to support Blaine businesses during events by distributing the newspaper locally. 13. It offers affordable advertising to businesses and individuals. 14. It is a newspaper that I look forward to reading every week. 15. It provides updated information on the local real estate market. 16. It is a local newspaper that keeps the community informed of obituaries of friends and neighbors. 17. It keeps citizens informed of sheriff and police reports. 18. It makes getting the newspaper fun for those who enjoy games and crossword puzzles. 19. It provides news on local, county and state announcements that affect almost everyone. 20. It showcases volunteers who give their time and generous donations in assisting agencies and more. 21. It has proven to give consumers upto-date news on timely happenings so that we are “in the know.” 22. It continues to keep readers updated on COVID-19 as much as possible, being a weekly edition. 23. It is a professional newspaper with journalism and photography that continue to win awards. 24. It is written by dedicated staff members, a publisher, editor, advertising crew, reporters and many more. For all these 24 reasons and many more, I support you and am mailing my $24 check in the mail. Kathy Barnes Blaine
Please send letters to letters@thenorthernlight.com no later than noon on Monday.
April 9 - 15, 2020 • thenorthernlight.com
Thank You to our Donors and Advertisers! Mary Jane Scott, the mayor of Magnum, Oklahoma (pop. 6,000) told The New York Times that on Monday night, she recommended the town’s residents to use curbside pickup when they went to the local Walmart. To do so, she used her Facebook page. Why? “Since we have no newspaper, it’s the only way I know to get the word out,” she said. Some newspaper analysts are referring to what’s happening today as a mass media extinction event. With the help of our readers and advertisers, all of us at The Northern Light are doing our best to keep providing you with a quality publication that is useful, accurate and timely. The community will get through this pandemic and we want to be there when it is time to celebrate our mutual triumph. We continue to be in awe of the support that this community has shown us and have been inspired by the many comments attesting to the place the newspaper holds in people’s hearts. The feeling is mutual. Thank you again.
Here is what some people have told us: “Thank you for your great newspaper and all you have given over the years. In these new and confusing times, it is comforting to read local news of our friends, neighbors and community. I always look forward to Thursdays, knowing the paper is in my mailbox.” Ann Wolten “Highly value the quality of your work. Thank you!” Pat Dodge “I hope this helps. Like I’ve told you in the past, The Northern Light is the only newspaper I read and I do appreciate the unbiased, non-political way you have always presented it. Stay safe and enjoy the Spring.” Nancy Hobberlin “You deserve our deepest gratitude for being the wonderful people, and paper, you are! A light in our northern community. What would we do without you? (Shudder…shudder!).” Margaret & Charles Gibson
Anonymous Don Allen Carol & Tom Allison Andy & Donna Ambuehl Randy Ambuehl Ted & Elisabeth Angell Bruce Ansell Vaune Ainsworth Kenneth Andes Jonquil & David Armstrong Jodee Arnold Kathryn Asher Terry Bawn Tom Beckes John & Linda Bennett Bill Brooks Maureen Buckley Billie & Noreen Burns Heather Campbell Barbara Carmichael Judith Chapman Ann Crew Dr. John Coffey Michael & Beverly Coltart Tania Corliss Mary Dahl Mike Dahl Michael Daley Penny Dalgliesh Dan & Andrea Daniels Paul & Donna Davidsen Gary Davidson Ken & Peggy Davidson Michael Davis Robert Deines Julie Delaney
Joelle Dodd Pat Dodge Marie Dohner Stefanie Donahue Georgia Donovan Bob & Jo Edwardsen Carol Fairman John & Genemary Falvey Larry Farlow Douglas Fink Stephen & Carol Fowlers Bob & Lois Franco Bruno Freschi Reah Freeman Keats & Gail Garman A. Gibb Danny Gibbons Linda Gibbs Charles & Margaret Gibson Emily Giese James & Joan Gregory Margot Griffiths Nancy Hamilton Jack & Kathy Hanson David Harris Larry Hartman Betsy Henchey Mari Herbert Nancy Hobberlin Caroline Hodgins Janis & Jim Hollaway Heidi Holmes Ted & Harriet Howard Steven Ince David Ingulsrud Alexander Ironside
Elisabeth James Julie & William James Pat James Sheryl Jensen Jerry & Linda Johnson Mike & Barb Jones Nancy & John Kaye Bart Kelley Mike & Sue Kelley Jim Kenoyer Ed & Pat Kingshott Allan Koch Jennifer Korn Karen Kovacs Sandy Kuttel Larry & Violet Laidman Jeff & Nanci Lambdin Ian Lau Fredric Lausier Michelle Leidal Ray Leone D & D Leu Valerie Loreen Frank Lucci Erin Lunde Gene & Sharon Luther
“We look forward to your paper every week. Yours is the only newspaper we read. Thanks for all the updates and information.” Bonnie & Phil Ventura “I stopped the Herald because The Northern Light was better for local news.” Kathleen Macmillan “Thanks for your great job of keeping Blaine and Birch Bay informed about our community. You are the only news resource for our community. No local radio or TV news available.” Allan Koch “Love Thursdays when The Northern Light arrives in our mailbox! Always read it first to get the update news and what’s happening now! Thanks for allowing us to help keep you going!” Linda Johnson
Kathleen Macmillan Patrick & Liz Madsen Aidan Maher Peter & Jo Mans Theodore Maranda R. Mascio Kelly & Tracey Mattoon Patricia McDonald George McKinney William McNally Sandie Miller Kathleen Montfort Karen Mulholland James Murphy M&W Carpet David Newberry Alan Ogden Michelle Parker Nancy Peck Doreen Peltier Don & Phyllis Perry Martin Pommerenke Amy & Gene Quinn Anna Ramstead Jill Ramstead Elizabeth Reid
Bill & Nancy Reilly Chet & Kathy Renskers Jackie Richardson Judy Rice Bob & Sharon Rieke Kathleen Rightmire Glenn Rinkel Holly Robinson Steven Roy Mark Russell Steve & Julie Sanders Bonna Schibret Patty Schneider Beth & Herb Seils Bob & Carol Selby Tony & Lisa Smith Daniel Speers Manfred Sohni Ann Larson Spink Donna Stanford Helen Stanovich David & Mary Steward Prakash Sundaresan Janet Swansen Frank Szczurko Kathleen Tancer
Irv & Jane Timmermans Sets Toliver Doug & Eve Tupper Ronaye Tylor Elosie Tyrrell Nancy Vanalstyne Rick Vanderyacht Denice Vaughn Bonnie & Phil Ventura Martin Vezzetti Sherry Vogt Robert Ward Western Concepts David Wiens Kay Wilen Michael & Barbara Williams Ron Williams Shelley Wise Ann Wolten Julie Wong Patricia Wymond Lin Zhang Sandy Zeitel
You can also contribute online at thenorthernlight.com
Please Support This Newspaper
$24
Name: Address: City: State:
Zip:
(or whatever you can) Community Newspaper for Blaine & Birch Bay Since 1995
MAIL TO: The Northern Light
225 Marine Drive, Suite 200 Blaine, WA 98230 360/332-1777
5
6
The Northern Light • April 9 - 15, 2020
Local group sewing masks and picking up groceries for the elderly By Oliver Lazenby A local group is running essential errands for people who shouldn’t leave home. The group is also connecting neighbors in need with people who want to help them handle various challenges the new coronavirus and stay-at-home order have introduced into their lives. The group, called BBSP Covid-19 Community Helpers, aids people in Blaine, Birch Bay, Semiahmoo and Point Roberts. It started organizing through a Facebook page, and it now has
a hotline for people not on Facebook that can be dialed 24/7. The group’s priority is getting groceries, prescriptions and other necessities for the elderly and at-risk. As its membership has grown, it has expanded to other projects. These include sewing masks; connecting truck drivers with places they can park and get food; providing pet food; sharing mental health tips; and connecting people with financial, educational and entertainment resources. “We’re basically neighbors helping neighbors,” said Lorelei
Bowers, a Blaine resident who helped start the group. “Covid-19 has impacted people in so many different ways. The group is a platform for people to find other people to help with whatever their heart is calling them to do.” Bowers is one of about five administrators of the group. The administrators vet drivers and grocery deliverers – they make sure drivers have a license and take other steps to collect background information on them. Bowers said the group’s most important accomplishment is bringing people together and
serving as a platform for ideas. If someone sees a need, they can come to the group and find people to help meet it. One member joined because she wanted to do something for truck drivers – some truck stops and restaurants are closed and truckers are having a hard time finding places to park and eat. She found many others with ideas to help, and the group is now distributing care packages and delivering food to truck drivers and posting information at truck stops and gas stations to let truckers know about resources and accessible
restaurants in Blaine. “The best part is watching everybody come together and supporting each other, being part of a team and helping people get through this,” Bowers said. The Covid-19 helpers are now trying to reach more of the people who really need help, especially older people who are not on Facebook, and it hopes the hotline will help with that. Learn more by visiting the group’s Facebook page, facebook. com/groups/blaineareacovid19helpers, or call their hotline at 360/778-2762.
Domestic violence risk could grow during governor’s stay-home order By Jami Makan There are concerns that the number of domestic violence incidents could rise in Whatcom County during the statewide lockdown, as the coronavirus outbreak confines more people to their homes and contributes
to job losses and other financial hardships. With some partners and children in quarantine with an abuser, we reached out to Elizabeth Hart, support programs manager for Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault Services (DVSAS) in Bellingham. Here’s what Hart had to say about today’s
Temporary Store Closure April 12 - 26
Pacific Building Center will close for two weeks for cleaning and restocking the store for the benefit of our customers and employees.
Re-opening Monday, April 27
Thank you for your understanding.
2677 Bell Rd. • 360-332-5335 pacificbuilding.com
BUILDING CENTER
...where every kid shines! Preschool Gymnastics Kindergym l Stellar Dance Studio l Recreational Gymnastics l Shooting Stars Preschool l Team l l
SPORTS CENTER
5519 Hovander Rd. Ferndale, WA 98248
360.384.3861
www.gymstarsports.com
heightened risk of domestic violence, what DVSAS is seeing on the ground and what resources and strategies are available to those living with abuse. Are some people more at risk of domestic violence during the statewide stay-home order? While the statewide stay-home order won’t make an individual become violent or abusive, it can increase the number of domestic violence incidents or make them more dangerous. With more people at home either working remotely or out of a job, abusive partners will be more present and have more time on their hands, which can escalate the situation and increase the violence. We know that domestic violence is about power and control, and one of the most common tactics an abuser will use to gain and maintain that power and control is isolation. While an abuser could use any tool to exert control over a survivor, including public health concerns like the coronavirus, sheltering in place increases an abuser’s access to their partner and provides an extra way to manipulate and enforce that isolation. An abuser having more access
to their partner at the same time that community support and accountability systems are breaking down can make an already abusive situation more dangerous. Not being able to connect with social networks and community resources – that could be work, family, friends or DVSAS – increases a survivor’s vulnerability. Consider how extremely difficult it could be for a survivor to reach out for help when their abusive partner is able to watch everything they’re doing; there could be serious consequences. Has DVSAS seen an uptick in domestic assault incidents during this time of social and economic turmoil? Thus far, the volume of calls we’ve received has been consistent with previous weeks, but as people are adjusting their lives to the new reality of shelter-inplace and also finding it more difficult to reach out for assistance, I liken it to the calm before the storm. This is something we often experience during the holidays – it can be very calm while survivors are trying to lay low and just get through December, but once January arrives the number of survivors looking for
The Immigration Law Firm
NOTICE OF FLUSHING The City of Blaine Water Division started flushing the City's water distribution system. This is accomplished by opening hydrants along the system (starting at the well fields) to move fresh water throughout the distribution system. The purpose of flushing the system is to remove any grit and debris in order to improve water quality through the distribution system. During the city flushing program city water customers may experience a temporary low water pressure and/ or cloudiness when flushing is going on. The cloudiness condition (caused by air) should be only temporary, and can be cleared by running a cold water tap for a few minutes to clean and flush your service line. If the condition continues for an extended period of time please contact the Blaine Public Works. Thank you in advance for your cooperation. If you have any questions, feel free to call Public Works at (360) 332-8820. Blaine Public Works.
•• U.S. U.S. green greencards cards/ /naturalization naturalization •• Work / investor visas Denied entry waivers •• Denied waivers NEXUSentry appeals •• Removal hearingsclaims • NEXUS appeals U.S. Citizenship
360-332-7100
www.blaineimmigration.com Blaine,WA WA www.blaineimmigration.com• •435 435Martin MartinSt., St., Suite Suite2010 1010 ••Blaine,
Leonard D.M. Saunders, Attorney at Law
ALLEY AUTO INC 365 D Street • 360-332-7018
support increases dramatically. There are huge concerns as well in thinking about survivor safety as the financial impacts hit; many will experience a loss of income that makes it much harder to leave an abuser. A survivor may feel increasingly trapped in an abusive relationship because of the far-reaching economic impacts. One of our advocates noted that at this moment, a large portion of the calls we are receiving are survivors looking for support around financial and other tangible resources. What should someone do if they are a victim? Who should they reach out to first? It’s important for everyone to know that DVSAS services, including safe shelter, are still available, although our office is no longer open for walk-in services. If you or anyone you know is being affected by domestic or sexual violence, please call our 24-hour helpline at 360/715-1563 or 877/715-1563. Additionally, Lummi Victims of Crime offers a 24-hour helpline at 360/312-2015. The National Domestic Violence Helpline also offers a chat line that can be reached at thehotline.org/help. Survivors can think about planning in-place strategies. Where is the safest place in your home? Can you talk with your children about how they can stay safer when abuse begins to escalate in the home? Is there a way for you to gather your strength in this time of considerable difficulty? During these times, friends and families of survivors can also make an immense difference by providing support and community even while sheltering in place. Checking in over the phone or via text can help survivors feel connected and supported. Knowing someone is there to listen and not judge can create a lifeline for a survivor, and help them recognize that they are strong and courageous.
MON-FRI 8AM TO 5:30PM
We Install Quality NAPA Parts. We’re small, but we have it all! In stock, same day or next day service! Your one-stop shop for all your automotive needs!
We won’t be undersold on all truck, car and motorhome tires!
s Elizabeth Hart, support programs manager for Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault Services (DVSAS) in Bellingham. Courtesy photo
April 9 - 15, 2020 • thenorthernlight.com
New local arts campaign provides daily online content The Whatcom Arts Project is a new initiative involving more than 30 nonprofits, venues and organizations from Whatcom County’s vibrant arts scene. The campaign is providing free, daily online content to help ensure that county residents continue to have access to the arts during the statewide stay-home order. The Whatcom Arts Project created its new Facebook page, facebook.com/whatcomartsproject, on March 19 and shared its first post on March 29, a video of the Bellingham Symphony Orchestra’s music director playing Bach on guitar. Since then, the page has shared content from the Jazz Center of Bellingham, local filmmakers, Western Washington University’s Western Gallery, the Pickford Film Center, the Cascadia International Women’s Film Festival, the Jansen Art Center, the Downtown Bellingham Partnership and other local arts institutions and supporters. In just a few days, the new Facebook page earned more than 1,300 likes and followers. As growth continues, the new campaign will keep sharing the “gift” of free online performances, interactive tours, classes, narratives and other arts experiences from local artists, musicians, actors, storytellers, dancers and other performers. “The main idea was the idea of this being a gift,” explained Valerie Dalena, who helped organize the new campaign. “It’s a way of telling people: You supported us for so long, so this is what we can do to support you.” Dalena said the idea for a new collective arts campaign had been floating around for quite some time. “I know that people have made efforts to bring the arts community together several times, and it just doesn’t quite happen, because people are busy,” she said. “Everyone who’s running an arts organization has a lot on their plate.” Dalena is on the advisory board
of the Cascadia International Women’s Film Festival, and the idea for a joint initiative came up again when the board met around March 11 to discuss what to do about their own festival, which was supposed to take place from April 16 to 19 in Bellingham and has now been postponed. John Purdie, interim executive director of the Mount Baker Theatre, and Dan Larner, a member of Cascadia’s board of directors, quickly jumped on board. So did Gail Ridenour, executive director of the Bellingham Symphony Orchestra; Alex Bruner, founder of Bellingham digital marketing agency Intellitonic; Annette Bagley, director of marketing for Bellingham’s tourism bureau; ShuLing Hergenhahn-Zhao, one of the founders of the Sylvia Center for the Arts; and many others. A Zoom conference call took place with about 60 participants from local libraries, arts organizations and WWU. Following the call, a Facebook page was created, a name was chosen and a logo was designed. “We were trying to come up with something short and snappy that really stated our mission,” Dalena said. Meanwhile, mural artist Gretchen Leggitt contributed artwork. Organizers also put together a calendar, consisting of daytime educational content and an evening program for stay-at-home date nights and family time. To view the calendar of upcoming content, visit bellingham.org/ whatcom-arts-project. Dalena said she hopes the Whatcom Arts Project will continue to thrive even after the stay-home order is lifted and life gradually returns to normal. While the magic of gathering together in a theater, concert hall or gallery can never be equaled, she said the project will explore new ways to present recorded and interactive presentations, help the local arts community engage in cross-promotion and market the Bellingham area as an arts destination. “It will be a great way for us to continue to work together,” she said.
p orshi W y Director Our Good Friday and Resurrection Sunday services will be available online this year. Please check our website and Facebook page for further information.
All Are Welcome!
HAPPY EASTER from
Blaine United Church of Christ Join Us Livestreaming via Zoom Meetings (see Facebook for details) esus
didn’t turn people away
J
By Jami Makan
(360) 332-6906 885 4th St. • Blaine, WA Pastor Sandy Wisecarver
Drive-thru Easter Prayer Blessing @ 11am Please bring flowers for cross. EVERYONE WELCOME!
2996 MAIN STREET • CUSTER • 360-366-5181
CHRIST IS RISEN!
God’s peace be with you this Easter! Join our 10:15am Easter Sunday Worship on Zoom Email church for info.
Grace Lutheran Church
Maundy Thursday Maundy Thursday April 9
March 24 at 7 p.m. Good Friday April 10
Good Friday
Easter March 25Sunday at 7 p.m. April 12 We invite you to Easter Sunday watch our services
Image courtesy of Valerie Dalena
Easter Worship Online @ custerumc.org
Neither do we.
Holy Week Services
s Bellingham-based muralist Gretchen Leggitt contributed artwork to the Whatcom Arts Project, a new initiative providing county residents with free, daily online arts content.
902 Adelia Street, Blaine, WA 98230 (360)332-8918 office@bcfcommunity.com www.bcfcommunity.com www.facebook.com/blainechristianfellowship
Breakfast at 9 a.m. at our website: Festival Worship blaine-grace-lutheran.org at 10:30 a.m. 702 G Street Blaine 360-332-6589 We invite you to share in the Holy Week & Easter Services
702 G Street Blaine 332-6589
blaine-grace-lutheran.org
Zion Lutheran Church A caring country church north of Ferndale between Bay Road & Grandview Road
7215 Valley View Rd. • zionlutheranwhatcom.org • office.zion@gmail.com
7
8
The Northern Light • April 9 - 15, 2020
Active S eniors
Changes announced to senior community meals program In support of the state’s stayhome order and social distancing guidelines, the Whatcom Council on Aging is making changes to the congregate lunch program (senior community meals). Instead of picking up a hot lunch every day, seniors will now be able to pick up seven meals
at a time, once per week. Each package will contain a hot meal plus six frozen meals prepared by cooks. The bags will also contain a half gallon of two percent milk and whole grain bread. Meals will be distributed in Blaine on Wednesdays from 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. The meals are
available to adults age 60 or older, and they are donation-based; no one will be turned away due to an inability to donate. According to Blaine Senior Center director Kathy Sitker, if the center runs out of meals on Wednesdays, there will be more available on Thursdays and Fri-
days at noon for people who didn’t get a package. If you are 60 or over and in need of home-delivered meals, or if you don’t have the ability to heat frozen meals, please call 360/7466480 for further assistance. There are currently no changes to the Meals on Wheels program.
The program will continue regular hot and frozen meal deliveries for Meals on Wheels clients as long as staffing and volunteer capacity allow. If you are age 60 or older, homebound and in need of meals, please call 360/746-6480 or complete a request form online at whatcomcoa.org/request-meals.
We're Thinking of You & We Miss You! Stay Safe, Be Healthy Wash Your Hands & Wear a Mask! Blaine Senior Center • 763 G Street, Blaine • 360-332-8040
s The Blaine Senior Center’s closure due to COVID-19 didn’t stop volunteers from charitable giving. The center opened on March 27 to prepare meals for its usual Meals on Wheels deliveries and to pack senior meals for take out. To add festivity to the preparation, volunteers wore St. Patrick’s Day attire that included shamrock hats and green wigs.
Photo courtesy of Blaine Senior Center
NOW OPEN in Ferndale! CUSTOM
SHOPPE
PHARMACY Your NEWEST Family Friendly, Locally Owned & Operated Retail, Long Term Care Pharmacy. • FREE Daily Deliveries • Medicare & DSHS Billing • Most Insurances Accepted • Customized Medication Assistance for Retail & Long Term Care Customers • Wide Variety of Over-the-Counter Medications & Home Health Equipment CUSTOM
SHOPPE
PHARMACY
• A Variety of Immunizations including Flu Shots
5917 Portal Way • Ferndale, WA
(360) 685-4282
Located at the Round-About off of Portal Way Next to Anytime Fitness & Edaleen Dairy Mon-Fri 9 am to 6 pm • Saturday 10 am to 2 pm • CLOSED SUNDAYS
Home of the Synchronized Prescription Program! We will match up all of your prescriptions to be due at the same time, automatically fill them on that set day each month, and deliver them right to your home at no charge!
E E FR very! i l e D
April 9 - 15, 2020 • thenorthernlight.com
A SPECIAL SECTION OF THE NORTHERN LIGHT
Stay Active!
Poem: O Lord My Rock Be Not Silent To Me By Julie Hanft Can you hear it? It’s the sound of silence From a world struggling to survive. It’s almost deafening The cries from so many Endless hours** Tired feet** Tired bodies** Tired minds** Crying inside with nowhere to put it. Going home and washing and scrubbing You just can’t seem to get clean! Everywhere you look, this thing is invading our world Splintering off and coming into our bodies Breaking down our soul. I’m not there** Yet I feel like I have never felt closer
To so many hurting people. Breathing** We do it every day without giving it a thought. Now it’s a prayer for hope to breathe again. Watching people die Worrying that I am going to be next! Even worse** Will I bring it home to my own family? I can’t imagine how you all feel. I am here at home, sick Sometimes I am scared that I will die. How much more pressure are we going to put on people Who are doing all they can** Not sleeping** Not eating Barely having a moment’s peace. Men and women worried about their own families While they are working to save you** me** They don’t know who we are! I know you have taken that oath**
I have as well. I was a nurse, then a counselor. I have seen and felt the pain But not like this** This is so much more This is an invasion** That splinters off and gets under our skin! We are a people that need each other We are on a “hands off” world trying to get through the devastation. I pray for all of you every day** I shed tears for the pain I just had to say you are not alone! This is a wake-up call, world Our people everywhere** You need to hear those cries** Feel their tears** Never forget what these days have cost So much pain and death for so many. Julie Hanft, 62, is a best-selling author and poet who lives in Birch Bay.
New options for financing long-term care Until recently, private funds or long-term care insurance have been the only ways to finance long-term care like skilled nursing homes, assisted living facilities or home health aides, which are not covered by traditional health insurance. However, a new option is now available. According to the online financial resource NerdWallet, for those concerned about the financial risk of buying longterm care insurance and never using it, combination long-term care/life insurance policies may be better options. Depending on the policy, a portion of the funds can be used for long-term care that’s equal to several times the premium payments. This results in a reduced death benefit, depending on how much of the long-term care benefit was used. Some policies even guarantee a small percentage of the death benefit, even if all the money allocated for long-term care was used.
The American Association of Long-Term Care Insurance said that more than 350,000 Americans purchased long-term care coverage in 2018 and roughly 84 percent of these purchases were for hybrid or combination life insurance. A much smaller percentage were tra-
A little Extra Care with a lot more Peace of Mind. Call 360-354-5985 905 Aaron Dr. • Lynden, WA • www.lyndenmanor.com
“Age is no barrier. It’s a limitation you put on your mind.” -JACKIE JOYNER-KERSEE STAY CONNECTED!
www.BBBParkAndRec.org
Providing exceptional senior care & services for more than 60 years in Whatcom County Newly Remodeled and Spacious Private Suites, TV, Wi-Fi, Phone All Major Insurances Accepted • MDCR / MDCD Post-Acute Rehab / Skilled Nursing Edema Management / Wound Care
456 ‘C’ Street, Blaine 98230 • 360-332-8733 www.good-sam.com/stafholt
DISCOUNT
MONUMENTS & URNS 1118 W. Smith Rd.
CascadeMonuments.com
$50 OFF
Cascade Monuments
Flats
Headstones
Urns
CASCADE MONUMENTS (360)
383-9146
ON THE STAIRS?
ATTORNEY AT LAW, PS
An Acorn Stairlift is the perfect solution to use the stairs if you suffer from:
Estate Planning, Wills, Trusts, Probate & Family Law 1313 E. Maple St., Ste 208 Bellingham www.NathanMcAllisterLaw.com
Until then, get outside and walk!
NEED HELP
NATHAN L. McALLISTER
360-734-0338
ditional long-term care policies. Hybrid products may have lower premiums, and they can be paid in a lump sum or over several years. For those who do not tap into the long-term care savings, the policy will still pay out a death benefit to beneficiaries.
The Birch Bay Activity Center is temporarily closed, but will open as soon as possible with all our regular and new programs!
ü Arthritis or COPD ü Joint pain in your feet, knees or back
ü Mobility issues when using the stairs
A+ Rating
SPECIAL OFFER CALL NOW TO RECEIVE
$250*
TOWARD A BRAND NEW ACORN STAIRLIFT!
1-855-534-3648 *Not valid on previous purchases. Not valid with any other offers or discounts. Not valid on refurbished models. Only valid towards purchase of a NEW Acorn Stairlift directly from the manufacturer. $250 discount will be applied to new orders. Please mention this ad when calling. AZ ROC 278722, CA 942619, MN LC670698, OK 50110, OR CCB 198506, RI 88, WA ACORNSI894OB, WV WV049654, MA HIC169936, NJ 13VH07752300, PA PA101967, CT ELV 0425003-R5, AK 134057.
9
10
The Northern Light • April 9 - 15, 2020
Home & Away... Help is on the way!
W/P
FR GIFEE T
URC
HAS
E
MobileHelp is the premiere Medical Alert System that provides emergency coverage inside your home and throughout the USA.
To get Life Saving Information and a FREE BROCHURE, call MobileHelp today! • No equipment to buy.
• Sign up in minutes. Activation is simple. • No long term contract. Optional Fall Button™ with Automatic Fall Detect ■ ■
Comfortable and lightweight Signals for help even when you can’t press your button*
Call for a FREE Brochure!
1-360-685-8367 $
FREE Emergency Key Holder
Get your free Emergency Key Holder when you purchase a MobileHelp service plan.
$
$
MobileHelp Exclusive Offer
29 95
$
VALU
E!
Offer valid while supplies last.
$
*Service availability and access/coverage on the AT&T network is not available everywhere and at all times. Fall Button™ does not detect 100% of falls. If able, users should always push their help button when they need assistance. Fall Button™ is not intended to replace a caregiver for users dealing with serious health issues. Current GPS location may not always be available in every situation. MobileHelp is a registered trademark and Fall Button is a trademark of MobileHelp. Patented technology. MobileHelp is an FDA registered company. MHP-06631A
ADVANCED HEARING AID TECHNOLOGY
“I was amazed! Sounds I hadn’t heard in years came back to me!” — Don W., Sherman, TX
For Less Than $200
How can a hearing aid that costs less than $200 be every bit as good as one that sells for $2,250 or more?
The answer: Although tremendous strides have been made in Advanced Hearing Aid Technology, those cost reductions have not been passed on to you. Until now... MDHearingAid® uses the same kind of Advanced Hearing Aid Technology incorporated into hearing aids that cost thousands more at a small fraction of the price. Over 300,000 satisfied MDHearingAid customers agree: High-quality, FDA-registered hearing aids don’t have to cost a fortune. The fact is, you don’t need to spend thousands for a hearing aid. MDHearingAid is a medical-grade hearing aid offering sophistication and high performance, and works right out of the box with no time-consuming “adjustment” appointments. You can contact a licensed hearing specialist conveniently online or by phone — even after your purchase at no cost. No other company provides such extensive support. Now that you know...why pay more?
Can a Hearing Aid Delay or Prevent Alzheimer’s and Dementia? A study by the National Institute on Aging suggests older individuals with hearing loss are significantly more likely to develop Alzheimer’s and dementia over time than those who retain their hearing. They suggest that an intervention — such as a hearing aid — could delay or prevent this by improving hearing!
TAKE ADVANTAGE OF OUR 45-DAY RISK-FREE TRIAL!
Hearing is believing and we invite you to try this nearly invisible hearing aid with no annoying whistling or background noise for yourself. If you are not completely satisfied with your MDHearingAid, return it within 45 days for a FULL REFUND. Use Code HQ99 and get
For the Lowest Price Call
1-866-206-4425
FREE Batteries for 1 Year Plus FREE Shipping
State public lands agencies extend closures until May 4 By Oliver Lazenby After governor Jay Inslee extended the state’s stay-at-home order, the Washington State Department of Natural Resources, Washington State Parks and the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife announced that state lands will remain closed until Monday, May 4. The extension applies to boat launches, water access sites, wildlife areas, day-use recreation areas and all camping on state lands, the state agencies said in a joint press release. “The decision to extend the
closure of public lands was an extremely difficult one,” said Hilary Franz, commissioner of public lands, in the press release. “I share the sense of disconnection and loss that we are all feeling by not being able to be out in nature. Our trails, campgrounds and outdoor spaces are core to who we are in Washington, but this temporary sacrifice is necessary to turn the tide and protect our loved ones and neighbors. We have the responsibility to do what we must to save as many lives as possible.” Campers who had state parks reservations through May 4 will be notified and offered a full refund.
City of Blaine amends Gateway property agreement By Jami Makan Blaine city council voted 6-0 on March 23 to amend a property agreement with the White-Leasure Development Company in order to delay a $50,000 payment that would have come due to the city around this time. In September last year, Boise, Idaho-based White-Leasure agreed to purchase about five acres of land on the city’s Gateway development site, where the old municipal airport was located. The agreement has parameters around timelines and actions by both parties. One of those parameters was that while White-Leasure consults with potential tenants and decides whether or not to finalize the deal, a $50,000 promissory note would convert into a non-refundable cash payment to the city after the first 180 days of due diligence. Because of circumstances beyond White-Leasure’s control, city manager Michael Jones recommended that the agreement be amended to extend the feasibility period to delay the $50,000 payment for another 180 days. “We have been working with Family Care Network, who is the other buyer on the plus-or-minus seven acres that we have out there,” Jones explained to councilmembers. “Family Care has been going through site planning and architectural planning to confirm what it is that they wish to purchase. That has sort of delayed things as we have moved along.” Jones continued: “We’re coming up against one of the time horizons which is not the fault of White-Leasure Development, it is really just a matter of process of staff and the engineering and design on the Family Care side of things. As you can imagine right now, Family Care is not focused on this. They are focused on other things like COVID-19.” Jones also suggested that it was wise to ease the financial pressure on White-Leasure to make a final decision in the current climate. It is possible that the company, which was formed in 1972 and specializes in the development
of retail shopping centers, hotels and other projects, could decide not to proceed with the purchase and development of the site. “That is actually a possibility of course,” Jones said. “Given the current economic situation, putting a lot of pressure on them to make a decision right now on that $50,000 is probably not the best action to take on our part.” That said, the last status report that White-Leasure’s chairman Larry Leasure provided to Jones was “very positive,” Jones said. As part of the agreement, White-Leasure is required to provide a progress report to Jones at regular intervals regarding its tenant search. “White-Leasure described a variety of contacts with retail and hospitality clients, and expressions of interest from their clients,” Jones said. “However, since they have not acquired the property, they have not secured any contracts. As such they have not provided me with names of any potential tenants.” Meanwhile, the city has been doing plenty of work behind the scenes to help the White-Leasure and Family Care Network projects move forward. “The [planning] commission held a public hearing and deliberated on the city’s request for a general binding site plan (Gateway North, adjacent to Grant Street),” explained Stacie Pratschner, community development director for the city of Blaine. “The planning commission voted to send a recommendation of approval to the city council for their deliberations. The council will simultaneously deliberate on the planning commission’s recommendation and hold a public hearing for the required development agreement.” Pratschner continued: “The binding site plan will create two parcels and facilitate development of the new medical clinic and White-Leasure property. Once the lots are created, [the city’s Community Development Services department] and public works will review any associated building and land use permits. So we have a bit more work ahead of us before any projects ‘break ground.’”
April 9 - 15, 2020 • thenorthernlight.com
NEXT ISSUE: April 16
MARKETPLACE Announcements
Auto
TEMPORARILY CLOSED UNTIL MAY 4
WHATCOM WHEELS
STAY SAFE & HEALTHY! ’s
Dollar$ Plus
Mike
RESPECT YOUR VETERANS
Birch Bay Square-Unit 116 • I-5, Exit 270
360-656-5201
Auctions
NEW CARS
HINTON CHEVEROLET•BUICK
8139 Guide Meridian • Lynden, WA
360-354-2129
HintonMotors.com Celebrating 71 years of business with a tradition of trust since 1947. Your only locally owned and operated GM Dealer in Whatcom County with a non-commissioned sales staff.
ABANDONED VEHICLE
AUCTION NOTICE
Dodge Chrysler Jeep Ram of Bellingham
Meridian Towing
DATE: Wed., April 15 Viewing at 8 am • Auction at 9 am
1615 Iowa St. • Bellingham
866-448-0086
AUCTION ADDRESS:
dodgechryslerjeepofbellingham.com
www.Meridian-Towing.com OR call 360-746-9100 • M-F 8-5
At Rairdon’s of Bellingham you’ll find a wide assortment of new and pre-owned vehicles, a professional service department, financial assistance and more.
925 Boblett St. Blaine, WA 98230
Published April 9, 2020
PUBLIC SERVICE ANNOUNCEMENT Chapter 18.27.100 of the Revised Code of Washington requires that all advertisements for construction services include the contractor’s registration number in the advertisement. To verify a contractor’s license, call the Dept. of Labor and Industry’s contractors registration at 1-800-647-0982.
Place your ad in
CLASSIFIED MARKETPLACE call 360-332-1777
AUTO GLASS
Louis Auto Glass
BELLINGHAM 1512 N State St. • 360-734-3840 LYNDEN 407 19th St. • 360-354-3232 LouisAutoGlass.com Since 1929, Louis Auto Glass has been the leading auto & residential glass company serving Northwest Washington. The Adelstein family has owned & operated the company for four generations. Quality workmanship & customer satisfaction has remained as strong as ever.
Get your business listed.
Call 360-332-1777
Find it in the Classifieds!
8-23-18 replace wording..."Now enrolling for Fall. Full-time and part-time preschool options." (last ad 39763.pdf).
Child Care
$16 for 15 words
360-332-1777
Plus Newstands in: Bellingham • Ferndale Custer • Birch Bay Semiahmoo • Blaine
sales@thenorthernlight.com
TWO BROTHERS
MASONRY
RESIDENTIAL • COMMERCIAL TWO BROTHERS MASONRY Now Enrolling Brick • Block • Stone 1 month - 12 years old BRICK - BLOCK - STONE
BARRY L. WIENS
Full-time and part-time ERICK preschoolWIENS options.
BARRY L.MATT WIENS WIENS
Licensed & Bonded
Call today! 360-332-7135phone: (360) 332-6300
Cleaning
Licensed & Bonded
www.twobrothersmasonry.com
(360) 332 - 6300 Lic #2BROTB1945DA
Computer
Computer Repairs & Upgrades
• PCs • Windows • Wireless Setup • Home & Office Networking • New Computer Set-up • Spyware, Malware & Virus Removal
We come to you!
NWcascades.com
• Hardwood • Prefinished • Laminate
C
W
3 Year Guarantee on all work No Job Too Big or Small I Free Estimates New Construction • Remodeling • Siding Windows & Doors • Fencing • Drywall • Painting
(360) 305-2592 COMPLR*006PP
DESIGN BUILDERS,
Electric
Serving Whatcom County
(717) 917-5557
HOTLINE ELECTRIC Service/Construction Residential - Commercial Industrial
Remodels•& Commercial Additions Residential
Bathrooms & Kitchens Licensed Contractor DecksGeneral & Porches serving & Blaine SmallBirch Jobs Bay Welcome
NewBirch Construction Serving Bay & Blaine Additions & Remodels 360-201-3464 Decks & Porches
www.WhatcomHomeBuilder.com 360-201-3464 CallLicUs#ForDESIGBL934JL A Free Estimate
FIND IT IN THE CLASSIFIEDS
ADVERTISE YOUR GARAGE SALE!
Lic # DESIGBL934JL
LICENSED & INSURED • FREE ESTIMATES LIC#604511327
Licensed • Bonded • Insured HOTLIE*914J7
360-393-8246
Handyman
Select Pro Builders Flatwork Roofs l Siding
Decks Renovations l Repair Work
l
l
l
l
360-383-6648
LLC
Landscaping
Lic # CCINTEGCN869DD
Kitchens & Baths • Custom & Spec Homes Decks, Garages & Additions completeremodels@yahoo.com www.completeremodels.net
360-746-4902
icnwllc@comcast.net
Specializing in Renovations & New Construction
Blaine • Birch Bay • Semiahmoo
360-371-7277
Quality construction since 1987 Licensed & bonded
Licensed • Bonded And InSured
COMPLETE REMODELS
Mark St. Germaine
N
InstallatIon & RefInIshIng
360-224-6466
Handyman
Integrity Contracting N.W. LLC
CASCAFL912J8
CLEANING SPECIAL. 4 hours for $120 (1st time only). Professional cleaning, we do it all. 360-527-0555. www. marthascleaning.com. WINDOW CLEANING Residential and Commercial. Licensed, Insured, Experienced. Call Wade 360-384-8888.
Construction
COMMERCIAL
OPEN: Mon-Fri 6am - 6pm
u]
PLUS, your ad appears ONLINE FOR FREE at thenorthernlight.com/classifieds
Delivered to every home in the 98230 zip code.
Since 1973
RESIDENTIAL
WE ACCEPT:
25¢ for each additional word
Construction
MORE Smiles Learning Center
AD DEADLINE: April 13
Kendall’s Tree Service ,LLC
Lic#KENDATS872JW
CLASSIFIEDS
11
Greg Kendall, Owner-Operator
Tree Trimming & Removal Chipping & Hauling, Tree Sales Stump Grinding - Bucket Trucks 3040 BIRCH BAYLYNDEN RD.
360-366-5340
Lic #SELECPB805D4
28-Years Experience
We Beat Any Price!
ELITE LANDSCAPE & MINI-EXCAVATION LLC
NEW
WINTER SNOW SERVICES!
A-1 Handyman Plus
Pressure Washing • Storm Clean Up • Dump/Debris Hauling Tree & Fruit Tree Pruning • Landscape Installation • & More!
• Remodel & Home Repairs • All Phases of Carpentry • Kitchen & Bathrooms • Doors & Windows • Decks & Porches • Drywall & Textures • Painting • Rot Repair We get it done! Lic #A1HanHp962MH
EliteLandscapeExcavation.com *ELITELM817BB
360-296-4824
Plumbing
Ron 360-739-5097
Vandals desecrate roadside tribute to Navy veteran and CBP officer By Jami Makan Vandals recently stole items from a roadside memorial to a deceased Navy veteran and Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officer, including an American flag, a metal cross and a nameplate. Since October 2008, the memorial to Gulf War veteran and CBP officer Kerry D. Gallager has stood near the intersection of Blaine Road and Loomis Trail Road. It was erected by his widow, Meredith Iaci, in order to honor Gallager, who died at that spot on October 23, 2008 in a motorcycle accident on his way to work at one of Blaine’s border crossings. It is believed that a medical issue caused him to veer into a ditch, where he was crushed by the weight of his bike. He was in full uniform. “He worked for CBP after he retired from the Navy, and he was a very patriotic man,” Iaci said. “He was very red, white and blue.”
While some things have been pilfered from the memorial over the years, and it once had to be rebuilt after being run over during a police chase, Iaci said that vandals recently stole all of the memorial’s key components. These items included an American flag on a silver pole with a silver eagle on top; an ornate wrought-iron cross; a floral wreath; a plaque with Gallager’s birth and death years and a nickname (“Our red, white and blue boy”); and three solar-powered lights arranged in a star-spangled banner pattern. Iaci said a big wreath made by Gallager’s mother was once taken from the memorial, and that she often has to clear empty liquor, wine and beer bottles that people discard on the side of the road next to the memorial. But she was shocked that this time, some people went as far as to steal the entire memorial. “The plaque was glued onto the cross, and everything was ziptied and fastened with clamps, so
it must have taken them some time and effort,” Iaci said. “I’m so discouraged that I’m wondering whether to rebuild it or not. I put a lot of time and effort into it. This is very hard for me.” Iaci is now on a mission to raise awareness about the incident and hopefully get the precious items returned. She has posted a sign at the site asking for any witnesses to come forward. She also called state troopers, who interviewed the property owner (unfortunately, he didn’t see anything). Iaci has also spoken to people in the vicinity. She knows that the incident happened sometime between March 29, when she last saw the memorial intact, and April 2, when she drove by the memorial and noticed that it had been ransacked. “I’m trying to find out who did it,” she said. “I’m just asking that the things are returned.” Iaci said the incident has left her feeling disheartened. “In this time of such devastating uncer-
s The roadside memorial to deceased Navy veteran and CBP officer Kerry Gallager before it was recently ransacked. Photo courtesy of Meredith Iaci
tainty and being urged to pull together as a community, it absolutely galls me that people would be so disrespectful as to desecrate a dead man’s tribute,” she said. Iaci continued, “These are
tough times. We’re all in it together. People should be mindful of the wrongs that they do and such. I’ve maintained the memorial for 11 and a half years. What an act of cowardice to do this.”
12
The Northern Light • April 9 - 15, 2020
Real Estate
Legal IN THE SUPERIOR COURT OF THE STATE OF WASHINGTON IN AND FOR THE COUNTY OF WHATCOM No. 20-2-00464-37 SUMMONS BY PUBLICATION JAMES LAWRENCE CLARKE, in his individual capacity and as Co-Personal Representative of the ESTATES OF RICHARD BONIFACE CLARKE and ELLEN BERYL CLARKE, Deceased; GERARD JOSEPH CLARKE, in his individual capacity and as Co-Personal Representative of the ESTATES OF RICHARD BONIFACE CLARKE and ELLEN BERYL CLARKE, Deceased; RICHARD JAMES CLARKE, in his individual capacity; PAUL ANTHONY CLARKE, in his individual capacity; PATRICK JOHN CLARKE, in his individual capacity; JOHN TIMOTHY CLARKE, in his individual capacity; FRANCES ALVIN CLARKE, in his individual capacity; ANDREW THOMAS CLARKE, in his individual capacity; and ELLEN MARIE FAIRN, in her individual capacity, Plaintiffs v. ETHELWYN A. TURNBULL and JOHN DOE TURNBULL, in their individual capacities and marital estate, if living, and if deceased the unknown heirs of ETHELWYN A. TURNBULL and JOHN DOE TURNBULL; ETHELWYN A. MERCER and ARTHUR F. MERCER, in their individual capacities and marital estate, if living, and if deceased the unknown heirs of ETHELWYN A. MERCER and ARTHUR F. MERCER; and ALSO ALL OTHER PERSONS OR PARTIES UNKNOWN CLAIMING ANY RIGHT, TITLE, INTEREST, ESTATE, OR LIEN IN THE REAL PROPERTY DESCRIBED IN THE COMPLAINT HEREIN, Defendants. TO THE DEFENDANTS: ETHELWYN A. TURNBULL and JOHN DOE TURNBULL, in their individual capacities and marital estate, if living, and if deceased the unknown heirs of ETHELWYN A. TURNBULL and JOHN DOE TURNBULL; ETHELWYN A. MERCER and ARTHUR F. MERCER, in their individual capacities and marital estate, if living, and if deceased the unknown heirs of ETHELWYN A. MERCER and ARTHUR F. MERCER; and ALSO ALL OTHER PERSONS OR PARTIES UNKNOWN CLAIMING ANY RIGHT, TITLE, INTEREST, ESTATE, OR LIEN IN THE REAL PROPERTY DESCRIBED IN THE COMPLAINT HEREIN. YOU, AND EACH OF YOU, ARE HEREBY SUMMONED to appear within sixty (60) days after the date of first publication of this summons, to wit; within sixty (60) days after the day of March 19, 2020, and defend the above-entitled action in the above-entitled court, and answer the Verified Complaint of the Plaintiffs JAMES LAWRENCE CLARKE, ESTATES OF RICHARD BONIFACE CLARKE and ELLEN BERYL CLARKE, Deceased, GERARD JOSEPH CLARKE, RICHARD JAMES CLARKE, PAUL ANTHONY CLARKE, PATRICK JOHN CLARKE, JOHN TIMOTHY CLARKE, FRANCES ALVIN CLARKE, ANDREW THOMAS CLARKE, and ELLEN MARIE FAIRN, and serve a copy of your answer upon the undersigned attorney for Plaintiffs, Mark W. Stowe of Stowe Law PLLC at their office stated below; and, in case of your failure to do so, judgment will be rendered against you according to the demand of the Verified Complaint in this action, which has been filed with the Clerk of said Court. The object of this action is to quiet title in the Plaintiffs to real property located in Whatcom County, Washington, described as: LOT 7 AND THE EAST ONE-HALF OF LOT 8, BLOCK 6, MAPLE BEACH ADDITION, POINT ROBERTS, ACCORDING TO THE RECORDED PLAT THEREOF ON FILE AND OF RECORD IN THE OFFICE OF THE COUNTY AUDITOR OF WHATCOM COUNTY, STATE OF WASHINGTON, RECORDED IN VOLUME 6 OF PLATS, PAGE 22. SITUATE IN WHATCOM COUNTY, WASHINGTON. against any and all claims of the Defendants and any one of them, and as otherwise stated in said Verified Complaint. DATED this 6th day of MARCH 2020. Stowe Law PLLC By: Mark W. Stowe, WSBA# 16655 Attorney for Plaintiffs Stowe Law PLLC P.O. Box 129, 276 Boundary Bay Road Point Roberts, WA 98281 Phone (360) 945-0337 Email: stowelawpllc@outlook.com
FOR REAL NEWS, READ LOCAL!
IN THE SUPERIOR COURT OF THE STATE OF WASHINGTON IN AND FOR THE COUNTY OF WHATCOM In re the Matter and Estate of: JANET GILLIS HANSEN, Deceased. No. 20-4-0015437. AMENDED PROBATE NOTICE TO CREDITORS. RCW 11.40.030 THE PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE NAMED BELOW has been appointed as Personal Representative of this estate. Any person having a claim against the decedent must, before the time the claim would be barred by any otherwise applicable statute of limitations, present the claim in the manner as provided in RCW 11.40.070 by serving on or mailing to the Personal Representative or the Personal Representative’s attorney at the address stated below a copy of the claim and filing the original of the claim with the court in which the probate proceedings were commenced. The claim must be presented within the later of: (1) Thirty days after the Personal Representative served or mailed the notice to the creditor as provided under RCW 11.40.020(1)( c); or (2) four months after the date of first publication of the notice. If the claim is not presented within this time frame, the claim is forever barred, except as otherwise provided in RCW 11.40.051 and 11.40.060. This bar is effective as to claims against both the decedent’s probate and nonprobate assets. DATE OF FIRST PUBLICATION: April 9, 2020. PATRICIA ALESSE, Personal Representative PRESENTED BY: Law Offices of Roger L. Ellingson, P.S. by: Roger L. Ellingson, WSBA #19292. Attorney for Personal Representative. PO Box 1258 / 289 H Street. Blaine, WA 98231-1258 (360) 332-7000; Fax: (360) 332-6677
Bay Properties Semiahmoo homeS, inc.
NW LUXURY REAL ESTATE AT A HIGHER LEVEL
8045 BIRCH BAY DRIVE, BLAINE, WA 360-371-7252 BAYPROPERTIESNW.COM 4730 Tidal Way Units 102-L, Birch Bay MOVE IN READY!
NEW LISTING!
4328 Skyline Drive, Blaine • $319,000
GOLF COURSE VIEW LOT!
DON’T MISS OUT ON THE LOW INTEREST RATES! This 3 BD/1 BA 1450 SF home feels like it is out in the country yet is only minutes to downtown Blaine, I-5 access, grocery stores, schools and the US/CDN Border! Nice corner lot with detached garage and RV parking! The fully fenced yard is great for entertaining and is very well landscaped! Great opportunity to update this home with your own personal touch!
8636 Ashbury Court, Blaine • $150,000
THE GREENS AT LOOMIS TRAIL! One of few remaining Loomis Trail golf course view lots ready to build. Enjoy a panoramic view of the golf course, clubhouse and Mt. Baker. Offering 209 feet access off side-walked boulevard and 113 feet of golf course frontage.
Terry Conway • (360) 410-0503
CeCelia Breivik • (360) 303-8161
8033 Quinault Road, Birch Bay Village • $999,000
4730 Tidal Way 103-L, Birch Bay • $335,900
Bay’s premier community of craftsman townhome condos nestled on 11 acres above the bay. Beautiful & private units are 1,430 +/- SF, 3 BD, 2.5 BA, superbly finished w/quartz counters, rock gas fireplace, SS appliances, on-demand HW, quality fixtures, designer flooring & much more! Clubhouse, pool, & spa! Close to all Birch Bay offers. Secure your place in this wonderful beach community.
ONE-OF-A-KIND WATERFRONT IN BBV! Very unique opportunity to own the largest property in BBV with direct SW views to San Juan Islands, Birch Bay and Mt. Baker. Situated on .65 acre with unlimited possibilities for expansion of current home or building your dream estate. Main floor entry has great open floor plan for stunning views at any angle. Master + 2 more guest rooms on main w/upper level guest suite, bonus room & patio for sunsets. Bring imagination and create your oasis now!
Jeremy Porter • (360) 306-1794
Ruth Skeete • (360) 358-5075
MOVE IN READY! The Tides... BRAND NEW! Birch
!
5 DAYS
IN 4 ETION
L COMP
Carl W. R. Dufton • (360) 815-6637
NEW ON MARKET!
WATERFRONT!
8361 Semiahmoo Drive, Birch Point • $1,680,000
5384 Night Heron Drive, Semiahmoo • $1,598,000
piece w/timeless design-no expense spared! Just shy of an acre, a private sanctuary offers 3,419 sq. ft & spectacular 139’ of waterfront w/views of Bay, Canada & San Juan Islands. NW Asian design delivers a rare opportunity to experience refined living at its best! Thoughtful details into the Chef’s kitchen, expansive great room and open floor plan all on one level. Enjoy breathtaking sunsets every evening while surrounded by the Feng Shui inspired landscape. YOU have arrived!
DETAILS! Zero step entry, 12 ft ceilings, expansive windows/skylights for views of Drayton Harbor in every room. Designer kitchen-Thermador appliances, cabinets w/soft-close, pull outs & storage racks. 4 bedrooms w/ensuite, walk-in closets. Lower retreat family room, wine cellar option and 2 suites for privacy. Decks on main and lower for entertaining. Garage w/2 charging stations. This is PERFECTION! Cannot build at this price!
STUNNING VIEWS!
3 BD, 2.5 BA TOWNHOME!
The Tides... BRAND NEW! Birch Bay’s premier community of craftsman townhome condos nestled on 11 acres above the bay. Beautiful & private units are 1,430 +/- SF, 3 BD, 2.5 BA, superbly finished w/quartz counters, rock gas fireplace, SS appliances, on-demand HW, quality fixtures, designer flooring & much more! Clubhouse, pool, & spa! Close to all Birch Bay offers. Secure your place in this wonderful beach community.
SOLD!
WEST FACING WATERFRONT! Flawless Master-
Heather Taylor • (425) 785-5771
NW CONTEMPORARY WITH EXCEPTIONAL
Julie Ward • (760) 522-2564
! RICE P NEW
rvie Wa t e
w!
5503 Seavue Rd. Birch Bay • $399,000 8786 Great Horned Owl Lane $739,000 8783 Clubhouse Point • $1,049,000 SEE PHOTOS AT
www.clubhousepoint.com MLS# 1232342 3-BD, 2.75-BA. 3,935 SF. 3 car garage. Last opportunity at Semiahmoo’s Clubhouse Point. Private, only 14 homes.
MLS # 1573664 • 3,479 Sq. Ft. • 1027 sq ft. garage Single story 3479 sq. ft custom crafted overlooking 2 acre private park setting w/pond &fountain. Window walls frame views: lush garden park, pond. Timeless cherry floors, custom cabinetry in 3 rooms. Pond view dream kitchen=perfect entertaining hub:warming drawer, Sub Zero, serious stainless hood over gas cooktop. Stately dining rm. Spacious master on N side. Guestrooms on S side. Radiant heat. Oversized garage. Storage. W facing, partially covered, oversized tiled patio w/park view. No grass! Location, Location!
360.815.6638 briansouthwick@gmail.com see more pictures at www.briansouthwick.com
I’m always available to show you by private appointment all Residential, Commercial, Vacant Land & New Construction Properties!
Call Hugh :
360.371.5800
Hugh Brawford, Managing Broker
Build your home here!
20+ ACRES - $175,000 Homesite on Kickerville with beautiful, meandering Terrell Creek.
Owner contract possible AT 20% DOWN, 6.5% 30 year Amortization. Some residential zoning, currently in open space. Great tax advantage.
Semiahmoo Marina Boat Slips Available!
www.CallHugh.com
Connect your
Business
with our readers In these Popular Special Sections Advertise Now! Call 360-332-1777 or email sales@thenorthernlight.com
3-BD, 2-BA, large kitchen w/SS appliances. Master BD w/large ensuite. Oversized 2-car garage. Solar panels. Huge deck. Come take a look! MLS #1559972
Lisa Sprague Owner/Agent
360-961-0838
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.
Your Local Expert For All Real Estate, Residential Or Commercial Services!
Beautiful ocean and mountain view home.
Rentals - Commercial
NELSON BUILDING 925 Ludwick Ave., Blaine 5100 SF Warehousing/
Manufacturing/Retail SPACE AVAILABLE Also Available Now: Up to 18,000 SF of Fenced & Paved Storage Yard
Don Nelson 360-332-2743 Email nelsbldg@msn.com
TheNorthernLight.com
your online hometown newspaper! The best place to keep up-to-date with local news.
23,600 people read
The Northern Light every week!
ADVICE
FROM THE PROS
Third week of every month
Health&Wellness
Pet Care
Active Seniors
HOME&GARDEN
First week of every month
Second week of every month
Third week of every month
Last week of every month
April 9 - 15, 2020 • thenorthernlight.com
COVID-19 ... From page 1
UW estimate of 1,400. That outlook depends on maintaining strict social distancing measures through the end of May, IHME’s director told the Seattle Times. It’s not clear whether new cases are slowing yet in Whatcom County. The county saw its biggest oneday increase in new confirmed cases on April 5, when it reported 47 new cases. The county announced its first confirmed case nearly one month ago, on March 10. Seven new cases at Stafholt in Blaine, all employees Seven more employees at Good Samaritan Society – Stafholt in Blaine tested positive for the new coronavirus, said Shawn Neisteadt, a spokesperson for the South Dakota-based nonprofit. In total there are now 20 cases of the virus associated with the facility. Stafholt has notified all residents and families and is working with the Washington State Department of Health and following its guidance on isolating residents, Neisteadt said. High rate of positive tests As of April 5, 15.2 percent of tests in Whatcom County had come back positive, according to data from the Washington State Department of Health. That’s almost double the state’s positive test rate of 8.6 percent. The Whatcom County Health Department data on April 7 showed that 22.4 percent of tests had come back positive. State and county numbers are different due to differences in how cases are tracked and the time at which numbers are updated. Whatcom County may have had a delay in obtaining negative test results, as it had not posted new negative test results in the previ-
DINING GUIDE 277 G Street • Downtown Blaine
360-392-0955
TheVaultWine.com
ous two days. A spokesperson for Whatcom Unified Command, the multi-government organization responding to the Whatcom outbreak, did not respond to a question about the lack of negative test results by press time. On April 2, Whatcom Unified Command spokesperson Claudia Murphy said the county’s high rate of positive tests may be a result of limited testing. “While it’s true that anyone can be tested for COVID-19 if their health care provider says they should, the reality right now is that not everyone can be tested because of a shortage of test kits and/or a shortage of PPE,” Murphy said in an email, which she said was reviewed by health department “subject matter experts.” Murphy continued: “The percentage of positive tests out of the total number of people tested for Whatcom County is likely skewed because right now we are prioritizing testing for the people who are most at risk for severe illness, and for health care workers, first responders, and other essential workers. We’ve also tested in closed settings, like Shuksan Healthcare Center, where we were concerned about spread and expected to see a lot of positive tests.” County testing capacity expands with drive-through site Whatcom County began operating a drive-through COVID-19 testing site for high priority individuals on April 3. The site is a partnership between the Whatcom County Health Department and Northwest Laboratory, a Bellingham lab that began processing tests in late March. Testing at the drive-through is only available for high priority populations with a referral from a health care provider. Patients can’t request testing themselves. High priority populations, ac-
cording to a county health department press release, include those with symptoms who: • Work in health care or public safety; • Live or work in an institutional or congregate living setting; • Are employed in essential services, such as grocery stores, pharmacies or public utilities; or • Are over 60, pregnant or have underlying health conditions. The county health department said on April 3 that it expects results from the site to be provided within 24 hours of shipment to the lab. A county spokesperson did not respond to a question about whether that was happening by press time. The county is still working to increase testing, the press release said. Whatcom County limiting information On April 3, Whatcom Unified Command began releasing some extra information in a daily “situation report” at whatcomcovid.com. It includes information about the age of confirmed cases. An earlier situation report, obtained by the Bellingham Herald before Whatcom Unified Command began releasing its daily situation report to the public, included information about the number of hospitalized patients. At that time, on March 31, there were 11 confirmed cases among patients at PeaceHealth St. Joseph Medical Center and 22 suspected cases, according to the document. A spokesperson said unified command only releases information about medical facilities if there is a “cluster” or spread within a facility. Skagit County releases a number of people hospitalized from the new coronavirus in its daily update on new confirmed cases. PeaceHealth St. Joseph communications director Beverly
Blaine, Birch Bay & Point Roberts MARCH 2020
LOCATION
SALE PRICE
HIGHER END HOUSES: 2-story condo with 2,428 SF, 4 BD, 3 BA, 441 SF attached garage, 578 SF patio, built in 2016; marine view.
Unit 36, Semiahmoo Shore Condominiums, 9438 Turnstone Lane, Blaine
$795,000
2-story condo with 2,203 SF, 4 BD, 3 BA, built in 2016, 463 SF attached garage, 180 SF patio; marine view.
Unit 32, Semiahmoo Shore Condominiums, 9430 Turnstone Lane, Blaine
$795,000
5401 Quail Run, Blaine
$740,000
DESCRIPTION
1-and a half story house with 3,011 SF, 1,258 SF basement, 4 BD, 5 BA, 624 SF built-in garage, 297 SF patio, 364 SF deck, built in 1995, .32 acres land. 1-story house with 2,311 SF, 3 BD, 3 BA, 590 SF attached garage, 548 SF deck, 2,500 SF shop/ storage, built in 1997, 5.75 acres wooded land; territorial views.
DRAYTON HARBOR OYSTERS
2-story condo with 2,203 SF, 4 BD, 3 BA, built in 2017, 464 SF attached garage, 180 SF patio; marine view.
Served Raw, Grilled, Fried, Stewed & other delicious Seafood Specialities
Local Craft Beers & Wine
360-656-5958 DraytonHarborOysters.com 685 Peace Portal Dr. • Downtown Blaine
9350 Deltop Drive, Blaine
DIRECTORY
Unit 31, Semiahmoo Shore Condominiums, 9428 Turnstone Lane, Blaine
Licensed Home Inspector #2504
360-920-8967
jim@inspectyourhomes.com • www.inspectyourhomes.com Dreaming Up The Ideal Retirement Is Your Job. Helping You Get There Is Ours. To learn more about why Edward Jones makes sense for you, call or visit my office today.
Terrell V Goertz, CFP®, ChFC®, CLU® Financial Advisor 119 N. Commercial Suite 140 Bellingham, WA 98225 360-738-3454
MAKING SENSE OF INVESTING
Raymond James is now in Blaine bringing objective investment strategies and personalized financial service to the area.
Loomis Hall // 288 Martin Street, Ste 302 Blaine, WA 98230 // T: 360.388.4068 raymondjames.com/redwoodinvestments david.geske@raymondjames.com
David Geske, CFP® Financial Advisor
CFP Board owns the CFP® marks in the United States. Securities offered through Raymond James Financial Services, Inc., member FINRA/SIPC. Investment advisory services offered through Raymond James Financial Services Advisors, Inc. Redwood Investments is not a registered broker/dealer and is independent of Raymond James Financial Services. 20-BR8RN-0010 TA 1/20
Proud supporters of the Blaine Community! Formerlyof1stthePropane 2011 Large Business Year of Whatcom County Keep Full Service • Budget Payment Plan • Tank Installation & Rental Modern Equipment •Family SafetyOwned Checks • Locally Owned & Operated and Operated Since 1929!
Louis Auto Glass
The Only Validated 360 332-3121 2163 Nature’s Path Way • Blaine Auto Glass Company
Fill your bottles - Easy RV access
in Whatcom & Skagit Counties.
ouis’Auto & Residential Glass We Guarantee Your Safety
$795,000
Spring Special!
2-story condo with 2,025 SF, 4 BD, 3 BA, 477 SF attached garage, 210 SF patio, built in 2017; marine view. LAND: 43.48 acres agricultural/forest land with outbuilding.
Unit 30, Semiahmoo Shore Condominiums, 9426 Turnstone Lane, Blaine
$795,000
Dinner on Us and90 a Can of Glass Cleaner Celebrating years!
Drayton Harbor Road, Blaine
$555,000
Windshield Replacement
BELLINGHAMFree Pick up & Delivery 1512 N. State St. •
Bellingham 360-734-3840
Blaine Road, Blaine
$252,845
.31 acres commercial land.
147 C Street, Blaine
$448,000
Harborview Road, Blaine
$190,000
LYNDEN
Free Loaner Cars
Vernon St. •Mt.360-354-3232
(360) 734-3840 (360) 354-3232 (360) 424-9759 www.LouisAutoGlass.com 1512 N. State St.
64.79 acres agricultural/ranch land
Rock Chip Repairs
Lynden 407 19th 407 19th St.
1721 E. College Way
To Our Canadian Friends
This space can be yours for only $37 per week. Enjoy Huge Savings with U.S. Prices
MikeKent.com Sponsored by:
758 Peace Portal • Blaine 360-332-4045
www.edwardjones.com Member SIPC
with every windshield purchased and installed
13.89 acres (3 lots) residential land.
Great Authentic Mexican Food
Protecting you from the unexpected.
James McGregor A.Sc. T (B.C.) CHI
Louis’
$640,000
communities like Birch Bay or Point Roberts could cause people to take the virus’ spread more seriously and promote county and state social distancing guidelines. Holmes said that while that perspective is understandable, the consensus among public health experts is that this new coronavirus could be in every community and given the shortage of testing in the county, releasing location information is more likely to give a false sense of security than a true picture of the virus’ spread. “We want people to go in with the assumption that wherever you go, the threat is there,” he said.
BUSINESS & PROFESSIONAL
RECENT HOUSE & LOT PRICES
TheVaultWine
Farm Fresh Oysters
Mayhew said that on April 7 there were five confirmed cases at the hospital and 18 waiting for test results. She said the facility has had one health care worker test positive to date, and that the facility is below capacity in its emergency department, ICU and main nursing units. Jed Holmes, community outreach facilitator for the county executive, suggested that releasing information about the location of confirmed cases might give people a false sense of security. A reporter for The Northern Light argued that releasing information on confirmed cases in smaller
I-5 Exit 270 at Birch Bay Square 360-527-8901 • mike@mikekent.com
13
www.louisautoglass.com
Must present ad for special. Not valid with any other offers. Expires June 30, 2014.
13 week commitment. Call 332-1777 to reserve.
14
The Northern Light • April 9 - 15, 2020
Games and Puzzles
Sheriff’s Reports March 30, 2:50 a.m.: Alarm audible on Lincoln Road. March 30, 9:11 a.m.: Noise cold call on Kickerville Road. March 30, 12:39 p.m.: Impound private on Birch Bay-Lynden Road. March 30, 2:06 p.m.: Assist citizen on Starfish Lane. March 30, 4:59 p.m.: Property found on Bay Road. March 30, 7:36 p.m.: Assist citizen on Alderson Road. March 30, 9:29 p.m.: Suspicious vehicle on W. 30th Center, Custer. March 30, 9:30 p.m.: Whatcomm record on Valley View Road and Dead End, Custer.
Reports for March 31 not available at press time. April 1, 1:37 a.m.: Vehicle theft on Portal Way. April 1, 7:03 a.m.: Serve warrant on Portal Way. April 1, 11:19 a.m.: Hang up (911) on Kickerville Road. April 1, 1:29 p.m.: Counterfeit cold call on Birch Bay-Lynden Road, Custer. April 1, 3:25 p.m.: Assist agency on Main Street, Custer. April 1, 4:04 p.m.: Threat cold call on Yellow Fin Court. Reports for April 2 not available at press time. April 3, 12:59 a.m.: Suspicious person on Harborview Road. April 3, 2:19 a.m.: Suspicious circumstance on East Street. April 3, 7:41 a.m.: Refer to other agency on Spooner Creeks Lane. April 3, 8:51 a.m.: Mental cold call on Birch Bay-Lynden Road. April 3, 10:14 a.m.: Parking problem Birch Bay-Lynden Road and Portal Way.
Crossword Answers at thenorthernlight.com
ACROSS 1. Curved symmetrical structure 5. One’s partner in marriage 11. Male admirer 12. Spend in a period of dormancy 16. Popular Easter meal 17. Doc 18. Bearing a heavy load 19. Gratitude 24. The Mount Rushmore State 25. Driving 26. Girl 27. British thermal unit 28. Makes a mistake 29. A defined length of time 30. Lions do it 31. Large quantities 33. Become less intense 34. Famed peninsula 38. Emerges 39. Rare Hawaiian geese 40. Dance style 43. Drove 44. Measures speed of an engine (abbr.) 45. Yankee hero Bucky 49. Midway between west and northwest 50. Monetary unit of
Samoa 51. Makes clothing 53. Spielberg’s alien 54. Agreeable to the taste 56. Injury treatment protocol 58. Cools your house 59. Imaginary line 60. New convert 63. Some do it to their windows 64. Wore away 65. Work units DOWN 1. Remove body tissue 2. Harvester 3. Roadside living quarters 4. Excessive self-confidence 5. Lapp 6. Bicycled 7. Entrance to a passage 8. Western U.S. state 9. Grain towers 10. “Westworld” actress __ Rachel Wood 13. Commercial 14. One who left a will 15. Makes it through 20. Within (prefix) 21. Sea patrol (abbr.) 22. Cigarettes (slang) 23. A doctrine
27. Constrictor snakes 29. Atomic #73 30. Baseball stat 31. Female sibling 32. A soft gray metal (abbr.) 33. Southern constellation 34. Belgian city 35. Go in again 36. In a different, more positive way 37. A place for sleeping 38. Blood type 40. Syrian news agency (abbr.) 41. A salt or ester of acetic acid 42. Millihenry 44. Populous Israeli city __ Aviv 45. Widen 46. Magical potion 47. Acknowledging 48. Private romantic rendezvous 50. Cavalry sword 51. Terabyte 52. Artificial intelligence 54. Bullfighting maneuver 55. Breezed through 57. Santa says it three times 61. __ and behold 62. 36 inches (abbr.)
April 3, 2:31 p.m.: Watch for on Custer School and Birch Bay-Lynden roads, Custer. April 3, 3:17 p.m.: Mental cold call on Castlerock Drive. April 3, 4:32 p.m.: Vehicle theft cold call on Arnie Road. April 3, 7:06 p.m.: Threat cold call on Elmwood Drive. April 3, 7:52 p.m.: Suspicious circumstances cold call on James Tree Lane. April 3, 7:52 p.m.: Refer to other agency on N Enterprise and Loomis Trail roads, Custer. April 4, 3:47 p.m.: Threat cold call on Birch Bay. April 4, 3:34 a.m.: Assist agency on Martin Street. April 4, 3:35 a.m.: Assist agency on Martin Street. April 4, 1:45 p.m.: Sex crime no rape cold call on Loomis Trail Road. April 4, 3:47 p.m.: Threat cold call on Birch Bay. April 4, 3:52 p.m.: Traffic hazard Birch Bay-Lynden and Ham roads. April 4, 6:41 p.m.: Burglary cold call on Birch Bay Drive. April 4, 7:18 p.m.: Watch for on Birch Bay Drive. April 4, 2:26 p.m.: Impound private cold call on Birch Bay-Lynden Road, Custer. April 5, 11:36 a.m.: Mental on Birch Bay-Lynden Road. April 5, 2:18 p.m.: Suspicious circumstances on Harborview Road. April 5, 2;44 p.m.: Suspicious vehicle on Blaine Road. April 5, 3:50 p.m.: Domestic verbal on Harborview Road. April 5, 5:15 p.m.: Vehicle abandoned on Bruce Road, Custer.
April 3, 12:54 p.m.: Parking problem on East Street.
April 5, 5:20 p.m.: Domestic physical on Henley Street. April 5, 8:58 p.m.: Noise on Fir Way.
April 3, 2:26 p.m.: Arnie and Bruce roads, Custer.
Reports provided by WCSO
Police Reports March 28, 11 a.m.: A motel owner reported a customer had not paid for their room and wanted them to leave. A police officer contacted the customer who said they were getting ready to leave. The customer eventually left on their own without incident. March 28, 7:18 p.m.: Officers were dispatched to a verbal domestic. Officers arrived and determined the incident was verbal only; no assault occurred. Officers recommended the male individual leave for the evening. March 29, 5:03 p.m.: Officers responded to a report of a physical domestic. It was determined to be a verbal argument only. No further action was taken. March 29, 11:45 p.m.: Blaine officers responded to an unwelcome guest outside a residence. The reporting party reported that the woman was screaming and banging on their door. He told the woman to leave and that he called the police. The woman left before the police arrived at the scene. The woman accused him of stealing her house. The woman has a history of mental problems and accusing people of taking her home. He did want her trespassed from his residence. The officers could not locate her to inform her of a trespass warning. No crime occurred during the incident. March 30, 7:30 a.m.: Officers took a suspicious circumstance report regarding someone knocking on the reporting person’s door and then leaving the area. The officer who took the report notified day shift officers and asked them to conduct extra patrols as available. March 30, 10 p.m.: An officer took a theft report by phone. The victim reported his unlocked vehicle was entered overnight and several items were taken. The officer documented the items stolen. There are currently no suspects in this case. March 31, 6:50 p.m.: Blaine Police Department officers took a missing person report. The reporting person said that the person of concern has not been heard from in roughly two weeks but that he might be living at an address on Allen Street. Officers checked the address and were told that the person does not live there. Officers advised the reporting person of this and attempted to contact the unaccounted for person via phone. The person has not been located. April 1, 2:06 a.m.: Blaine officers assisted the Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office as a perimeter unit on a wrecked stolen vehicle. The officers did not take any enforcement action. April 1, 12:20 p.m.: Officers received a complaint about an abandoned vehicle parked on the roadway. An officer spoke to the homeowner, whose house it was parked in front of, and advised them of the impound laws in Blaine. The homeowner advised the vehicle was their brother’s and would have it moved as soon as possible. April 1, 4 p.m.: Blaine police were dispatched to a report of counterfeit bills that had been passed through a retail location. An officer collected three bills, all taken in within the last six months, and logged them into evidence. The bills will be sent to the Secret Service for processing. April 1, 6:01 p.m.: Blaine Police Department officers took a harassment complaint. The complainant reported he was harassed by an employee for unspecified reasons. Case is under investigation. April 2, 7:55 a.m.: An officer was informed of a road rage incident that started in Canada and continued into Blaine city limits. Both drivers stated the other attempted to push them off of the roadway while in Canada. Officers confirmed that nothing criminal occurred in Blaine. Officers sent the individuals on their way, separately, and informed the Washington State Patrol weigh stations of the incident. April 2, 5:56 p.m.: A woman called police to report her rental property was listed online without her permission. A Blaine officer advised the woman to report the scam directly to the website. The caller stated she had not been a victim of any theft and was not aware if anyone had responded to the ad. There are no suspects or victims in this incident.
Reports provided by Blaine Police Department
Weather Precipitation: During the period of March 30–April 5, 0.3 inches of precipitation were recorded. The 2020 year-to-date precipitation is 16.7 inches. Temperature: High for the past week wasv 58°F on April 1 with a low of 35°F on April 1. Average high was 55°F and average low was 37°F. Courtesy Birch Bay Water & Sewer Dist.
Tides April 10–13 at Blaine. Not for navigation. 49° 0’ 0”N - 122° 46’ 0”W
DATE TIME HEIGHT TIME HEIGHT Fr 10
1:38 am
3.9
7:12 am
9.3
2:03 pm
-1.0
9:03 pm
9.6
Sa 11 2:30 am
2:49 pm
Su 12 3:26 am
3:39 pm
Mo 13 4:30 am
4:33 pm
4.9
7:44 am
9.0
-1.2
10:09 pm
9.4
5.8
8:20 am
8.6
-1.0
11:17 pm
9.2
6.4
8:56 am
8.1
-0.6
Tu 14 12:31 am
9.1
5:54 am
6.7
7.4
5:31 pm
0.0
9:42 am
We 15 1:41 am
8.9
7:44 am
6.4
6.8
6:35 pm
0.6
10:46 am
Th 16 2:41 am
8.9
9:10 am
5.8
6.3
7:39 pm
1.2
12:18 pm
s A goldeneye duck in the waters of Birch Bay. Photo by Chuck Kinzer/CKimageart.com
April 9 - 15, 2020 • thenorthernlight.com
15
Local auto detailing pro begins new venture as leadership coach By Grace McCarthy Rands Leadership International is Curtis Rands’ latest business venture. It aims to serve the Blaine community and beyond with the same teachings that changed his life as a teenager. Rands was about 20 years old when he dove into self-help books and personal growth courses that helped him navigate growing up in an underserved community in Antioch, California. Rands soon noticed that his thinking evolved. He began surrounding himself with positive influences that mirrored the direction he wanted to go in life. During that period, Rands stumbled upon John Maxwell, a speaker and best-selling author with several organizations tied to his teachings on leadership, personal growth, teamwork and success. Rands realized that most of his life had unknowingly been shaped by Maxwell’s teachings, and that his father had used the same principles in the restaurant industry. The work ethic of Rands’ father as an Olive Garden restaurant manager eventually earned him a national Diamond Club award, given annually to the top-performing managers of Darden Restaurants, Olive Garden’s parent company. Now, more than a decade later, Rands – who is 33 and operates an auto detailing business in Blaine, where he moved four years ago – is starting a new venture based
on Maxwell’s principles. Rands’ new business, Rands Leadership International, is licensed under the John Maxwell Team, a leadership certification program with over 24,000 members in 150 countries. Rands is now ready for business as a speaker, coach, teacher and trainer. “I’ve seen life from many different angles and I’ve been committed to personal growth, selfhelp and personal development for over 14 years now,” Rands said. “In some ways, I’m just getting started.” Services from Rands will be tailored to the needs of Blaine’s business community. Rands will offer complimentary 30-to-45minute “lunch and learn” presentations for Blaine businesses interested in his content. The complimentary sessions cover 15 “laws of growth” from six John Maxwell books. A “mastermind” class is an interactive follow-up seminar that can be taken with Rands to receive personalized content for your business, at a cost of $200 per person with a maximum of 10 participants. During the class, businesses meet with Rands for one hour per week for four to six weeks for customized roundtable discussions on leadership training. Rands said his approach to coaching is unique, given his ability to relate to diverse groups of people. He said his ability to connect with people from all walks of life has grown through
his other Blaine business, The Detailist, the auto detailing business he started in 2016. Rands Leadership International is based in Blaine, but could eventually expand using technology like podcasts and conference calls. Rands also hopes to travel for meetings in an effort to reach people worldwide. “Blaine’s becoming a town that’s on the verge of great development and it’s already begun,” Rands said. “I would like to be a part of boosting the local economy in Blaine and helping people with the tools they need to be effective leaders.” Rands said it’s a fulfilling job to help people gain a better understanding of themselves and clarify their own direction in life. Safety for clients is also a priority for Rands. He said he adheres to confidentiality and works to make each client feel protected, understood and valued. “Leadership is bringing the best out of other people,” Rands said. “My favorite part is seeing that happen, seeing other people encounter their own personalities in ways they’ve never done before and realizing the greatness they have within themselves.” Rands currently operates his coaching business part-time but is looking to turn it into a fulltime venture this summer, after he hires additional employees for his auto detailing business. “I believe this is my calling,” Rands said, “to be the cause of
s Curtis Rands, r., and John Maxwell, founder of the John Maxwell Team that certifies leadership coaches like Rands, during a 2018 certification event in Orlando, Florida.
Photo courtesy of Curtis Rands
transformational growth in the lives of everyone around me in the most beautiful ways possible.” Rands Leadership International will host a complimentary four-week “mastermind” webinar starting on Wednesday, April 15 at 8 a.m. to help Blaine professionals and businesses navigate times of crisis. The course will be held on the videoconferencing platform Zoom, where up to 10 participants can attend the inter-
WHAT’S OPEN A FREE online service offered by The Northern Light that keeps consumers up-to-date with who’s open and what business specials are available.
For Businesses do-it-yourself, easy to-use interface (no webmasters) l updates instantly to the web with: -Store hours GET -Specials A DEAL button l
-Pick-up/delivery info -Google map locator Sign up your business for FREE at: northernlight.whatsopenhere.com
For Consumers l
Get up-to-date information on businesses at:
thenorthernlight.com
active webinar every Wednesday at 8 a.m. until Wednesday, May 13. Additional times for the webinar will be added if space fills up. Before every session, participants will be asked to watch an hourlong video that will be discussed in the class. For more information on Rands Leadership International and its complimentary webinar, contact Curtis Rands at randsleadership@ gmail.com or 360/306-2839.
16
The Northern Light • April 9 - 15, 2020
WE BELIEVE IN LOCAL
Right now, it’s more important than ever to support our communities’ small, local businesses whose livelihoods depend on all of us. Many of them are family-owned and their passion for quality contributes to the unique identities of our communities. To help these local businesses emerge strong and intact, we ask that you seek out the many locally-produced items in our stores. On behalf of our local partners, we thank you from the bottom of our hearts for your support.
Hempler’s
Tony’s Coffee
The Hempler’s family continues their long tradition of producing the best hams in the Pacific Northwest. Free of allergens, gluten and MSG, each tender, juicy slab is packed with a deep, smoky flavor.
The team at Tony’s travels around the world sourcing the very best organic coffee beans for Haggen. They roast them to perfection in Bellingham—all organic and Fair Trade Certified.
Alaffia
Snoqualmie Ice Cream
Alaffia crafts body care products that are good for you, our communities and the environment. They use sustainable ingredients and pay fair trade wages to empower families in Togo, West Africa.
Snoqualmie Ice Cream is not just perfect ice cream; it’s produced in a sustainable, environmentally responsible manner. Simply natural and delicious!
We are partnering with our local food hub to showcase and help many LOCAL small businesses survive during these trying times.
Haggen Food & Pharmacy • Visit haggen.com to view our weekly flyers, store hours and more. Barkley Village • Sehome Village • Meridian & Illinois • Fairhaven • Ferndale 200330-01