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May 21 - 27, 2020
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Late interim police chief honored, page 2
Whatcom County directive to wear masks, page 6
Restaurants can now sell cocktails to-go, page 7
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Border closure extended until June 21 B y P a t G r u bb
s Families and friends from both sides of the US/Canada border have started gathering together at Peace Arch park since it opened on May 14 after being closed due to Covid-19.
Photo by Louise Mugar
Impacts from border restrictions could linger By Grace McCarthy The economic impact from the U.S./ Canada border closure has been swift, but the severity and length of that impact is unknown, said Laurie Trautman, director of Western Washington University’s Border Policy and Research Institute (BPRI). “I think this is going to create a little bit more of a friction of people crossing the border compared to what they’ve been doing over the last couple decades,” Trautman said. The longer the border is
restricted, she said, the less reliant people will become on crossing it to meet their needs. Since the border was closed to non-essential traffic on March 21, the number of people crossing the border in the Cascadia region, which includes all Pacific Northwest borders, has decreased 98 percent for both northbound and southbound traffic compared to crossing numbers for April 2019, Trautman said. On average, Blaine has seen a reduction from 10,000 personal vehicle crossings per day to 2,000, while
Who’s running in the August primary election? By Oliver Lazenby Filling week for the August 8 primary election was May 11 to May 15. The top two candidates in each primary race advance to the November 3 general election, regardless of party affiliation. Ballots for the vote-by-mail primary election go out July 15. U.S. Congress District 1 representative Six candidates filed to challenging incumbent Suzan DelBene, a Democrat from Kirkland:
- Steven Skelton of Snohomish, a Libertarian - Robert Dean Mair of Redmond, no party preference - Matthew Heines of Redmond, no party preference - Justin Smoak of Bellingham, no party preference - Derek Chartrand of Redmond, Republican - Jeffrey Beeler Sr. of Sultan, a Republican
42nd Legislative District Republican Jennifer Sefzik of Custer filed for position 2 to challenge incumbent Sharon Shewmake, a Democrat from Bellingham. Sefzik is a small business owner and high school debate coach. Blaine City Council member Alicia Rule filed to run for position 1 as a Democrat, against incumbent Luanne Van Werven, a Republican from Lynden. Dustin Gleaves, (See Election, page 2)
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Point Roberts has dropped from 2,300 to 120 entries per day. On May 19, the two nations announced that the border restrictions would be extended to nonessential travel at least until June 21. Essential travel is defined as U.S. citizens and lawful permanent residents returning to the U.S. and traveling for medical, educational, work, emergency response and public health, cross-border trade, official government and military-related (See Border, page 3)
INSIDE
Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau announced that the Canada/U.S. border closure to non-essential travel would be extended another 30 days until June 21. “This is an important decision that will protect people on both sides of the border,” he said at a press conference on May 19. The extension was a mutual decision by both governments. Trudeau said provincial leaders’ desire to keep the borders closed was instrumental in the extension. The U.S. has been harder hit by the pandemic than Canada. As of May 18, B.C. had a total of 2,444 cases, 335 active cases, 1,966 recovered cases and 143 deaths. Of the total active cases, 47 individuals are hospitalized with 12 of them in intensive care. Washington state has 18,611 cases and 1,002 deaths to date. Washington state doesn’t report active or recovered cases. Under the closure, non-essential travel is prohibited while essential travelers such as health professionals and transportation services continue to cross. In normal times, about 75 percent of border crossings are made by Canadians traveling to and from the U.S., meaning Whatcom County businesses have been hard hit by the lack of traffic. This is the second 30-day extension to the original order closing the border back in March. Members of the local border task force consider it likely that the closure will extend into July, at least past July 4.
Letters . . . . . . . . . 4 Pets . . . . . . . . . . . 10 Classifieds . . . . . 11 Coming Up . . . . . 14 Police/Sheriff . . . 14
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The Northern Light • May 21 - 27, 2020
Late interim police chief Knapp honored in D.C. ceremony
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Michael Knapp, a former Blaine interim police chief and Whatcom County law enforcement leader, was commemorated for his years of service during the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial in Washington, D.C. on May 13. A virtual candlelight vigil recognized each of the 307 law
enforcement officers who were memorialized this year after passing away in the line of duty. Knapp and the other officers’ names were engraved on the memorial’s wall alongside the names of over 21,000 officers who have passed away since 1791. Knapp was serving as Lynden’s interim police chief when he passed away at the age of 79 on November 6 after being struck by a vehicle in downtown Lynden. Previous to his service in Lynden, Knapp served as Blaine’s interim chief from November 2017 to July 2018. He also served as the police chief for the city of Ferndale from 2005 to 2016. Blaine Police Department sergeant Michael Munden fondly remembered Knapp’s legacy to the city of Blaine. “He was in Blaine only a short time, but he changed our department forever. He left behind a re-modeled police department, and a group of dedicated public servants,” Munden said in an email to The Northern Light. “That doesn’t even touch on the impact he had on our community. He got to know the citizens, knew many by name. He visited businesses and others regularly. He was well-loved in our city.” During his nine months in Blaine, Knapp helped restructure the department to function more efficiently after analyzing its procedures and updated the department to What-Comm 911, a dispatch system that hastened officer response time. “He took a rudderless ship and set it to a purpose,” Munden said of Knapp’s impact on the department. “A dedicated professional himself with a storied law enforcement career, he expected the same high professional standards from us, and he got it.” The ceremony was held as an annual celebration for National Police Week, which took place this year from May 10 to May 16. National Police Week started in 1982 with 120 people attending the first memorial service and eventually grew to multiple events honoring officers who’ve lost their lives, according to the
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Michael Knapp served as Blaine’s interim police chief from November 2017 to July 2018. He passed away on November 6, 2019. File photo
police week website. The celebratory week, which was virtual this year, has drawn 25,000 to 40,000 attendees per year in the past. Four of the law enforcement officers honored in this year’s memorial were from Washington. Justin DeRosier of Cowlitz County, Ryan Thompson of Kittitas County and Cooper Dyson of Pierce County were the three other Washington state officers recognized. Struck by vehicle was the fourth most common cause for law enforcement death in the past decade, according to data gathered between 2009 and 2018 from the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial Fund. Munden said Knapp was adored by all of the officers in Blaine. “Chief Knapp was a humble man. I suspect he would tell you that many names on that wall were more deserving to be there than his. He would probably say that he was no hero,” Munden said. “But a hero he was, in every sense of that oft overused word. He was a man of honor and he deserves to be recognized and remembered.” The ceremony can be viewed at nleomf.org and a virtual tour of the memorial can be taken at lawmemorial.org.
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May 21 - 27, 2020 • thenorthernlight.com
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Local lab offering Covid-19 testing for employers Election... From page 1
With more test results coming in, rate of positive tests in Whatcom is declining By Oliver Lazenby Northwest Laboratory, the lab running a drive-through Covid-19 testing site in Bellingham, began offering Covid-19 testing for employers on May 14. Any employers can contact the lab and request testing for its employees. Testing must be ordered through telemedicine, and test results should come back in 24 hours. State and local health officials say widespread testing is critical to reduce the spread of infections while more businesses open and social distancing restrictions are lifted. Testing availability is one of many factors that governor Jay Inslee will use to determine when the state can move on to the next phase in his four-phase re-opening plan, he said. In a press release about the availability of testing for employers, the Port of Bellingham called the ability for employers
Border... From page 1
activities, according to the U.S. Federal Register. The length of the closure could increase its long-term impacts, Trautman said. “The longer people aren’t able to cross the border, the more likely it is they won’t resume that activity once the border is open,” she said. Before the closure, Canadians made up 75 to 80 percent of those crossing the border and more than half entered the U.S. for non-discretionary travel such as shopping and tourism, according to information Trautman provided for the Wilson Center, a D.C.-based nonpartisan think tank where Trautman is a fellow. Canadian shoppers in Whatcom County contributed to an estimated $138 million in spending and 11.6 percent of taxable retail sales in 2018, according to data from the BPRI’s latest report. Canadians have a disproportionate impact on department stores and online purchases, Trautman said. Canadian shoppers have the largest impact at Ross, Silver Reef Casino, Costco and downtown Blaine, according to the report. Blaine was the second most popular destination for Canadians traveling through the Cascadia region in 2018 at 29.5 percent, or about 2 million Canadian visitors, according to the latest BPRI report. This slightly trailed Bellingham, the destination for
to get their employees tested a key for businesses to re-open. “As the economy begins to re-open, protecting the health of our community is everyone’s top priority” said Don Goldberg, director of the Port’s Regional Economic Partnership, in the press release. “Building a strong and sustainable economy is absolutely dependent on our business community taking proactive steps to prevent a spike in Covid infections, including making testing widely available and accessible to all.” Northwest Laboratory medical director Kelly Lloyd said the lab had heard from many employers who wanted testing. The lab was already testing people in the Alaska fishing industry before they went north for the season, and it wanted to open up testing for local employers, Lloyd said. Lloyd said she expects Northwest Laboratory has enough testing capacity to meet the demand. Currently, there are no state or federal guidelines regarding which employers to prioritize or how often employers could request testing. So far, tests have been paid for either by employers or the employees’ health insurance, Lloyd said. Though Inslee has said that testing kits are in short supply
statewide, Lloyd said Northwest Labs anticipated that testing supplies could become scarce and started sourcing them early on. Northwest Laboratory’s drive-through testing site now collects a less intrusive nasal specimen rather than the nasopharyngeal specimen previously collected, which required swabs to be pushed much farther into the nostril. Though testing is available here, Whatcom County has struggled to use its testing capacity. Since the beginning of May, county health department officials have said that supplies exist in Whatcom County to test about 2,400 people a week, but only 429 test samples were collected in the first seven days of the month, according to data from the Washington State Department of Health. It’s too early to tell from state data if Covid-19 testing in Whatcom County has increased since Northwest Laboratory opened its drive-through site to employer testing. A phone call and email to Lloyd on May 18 was not returned by press time. The number of negative test results reported in the Whatcom County Health Department’s daily online updates surged in the week after Northwest Laboratory opened test-
ing to employers, but health department officials said the surge was at least partly caused by a delay in reporting from the state. “From my understanding, we know that [the Washington State Department of Health] had a significant backlog in our negative tests,” said Amy Hockenberry, health information and assessment supervisor at the county health department, during a May 18 press briefing. “My understanding is that some of that has to do with that backlog showing up finally in our numbers.” If more negative test results are coming in, another factor could be a change in procedure at PeaceHealth St. Joseph Medical Center in Bellingham. Bev Mayhew, PeaceHealth St. Joseph Medical Center’s director of communications and marketing, said anyone coming in for surgery or an inpatient procedure at PeaceHealth St. Joseph Medical Center in Bellingham must first be tested for Covid-19, and that that’s been the case for “at least a couple of weeks.” The rate of tests coming back positive in Whatcom County is currently 7.2 percent, according to the state Department of Health. That’s the lowest it’s been since early April.
a Democrat from Bellingham, announced in early April that he would run for the position, but did not file. Gleaves said in an email that he decided to drop out after Rule announced her candidacy. Whatcom Superior Court For position 1, Superior Court Judge Robert E. Olson is running unopposed. Superior Court Judge Lee Grochmal is also running unopposed for position 3. Three people are running for position 2: James Erb, an assistant city attorney for Bellingham; Lisa Keeler, a Bellingham lawyer; and Evan Jones, a deputy prosecuting attorney in the Whatcom County Prosecutor’s Office. Presiding Judge Deborra Garret isn’t running for re-election. For position 4, Superior Court Judge David Freeman is facing challenges from Bellingham lawyer Carl Munson and Jim Nelson of Bellingham. PUD District 1 commissioner Christine Grant filed to run against incumbent Jeffrey McClure, a principal of RMC Architects. Grant is a consultant and energy policy instructor at Western Washington University. In addition, both parties also select precinct committee officers, who help organize for the parties. Dozens filed for those positions.
about 30.3 percent of Canadians crossing the border. The report cites Birch Bay as the destination of 3.5 percent of Canadian visitors in 2018. “It seemed like Blaine was really booming for the last couple years and hopefully that momentum they built up, they’ll be able to come back to,” Trautman said. “I don’t know how much of that was dependent on Canadians. I feel like Blaine has been more due to the amount of people moving up there because real estate was relatively more affordable than Bellingham.” The B.C. government opened provincial checkpoints at the border on April 8 for travelers returning to Canada. The checkpoints require a 14-day quarantine plan for people entering Canada or an isolation plan for essential travelers if they show symptoms of Covid-19. Over one-third of Washington’s trade is with Canada, according to information Trautman provided for the Wilson Center. Goods going into B.C. have declined about 20-30 percent, Trautman said, but goods going into Washington have only declined 12 percent. The difference is because some commercial trucks that enter Canada in Whatcom County re-enter the U.S. on the east coast. Trautman said it’s going to be hard to disentangle the border-related impacts from the overall impacts of the economy shutting down. She expects border towns like Blaine to have a bigger economic impact than towns less reliant on Canadian shoppers. Bell-
ingham’s economic diversity and big box stores will give it more resiliency to the border closure, she said. The severity of the economic impacts will be hard to estimate without knowing how long the restrictions will be placed, Trautman said, but she believes Whatcom County will have challenges that other areas of the state won’t because of Canada’s influence. Trautman said it’s hard to know when the social and economic impacts will lessen once the border reopens. That’s because public health concern is expected to continue influencing travel once the border reopens. Before border restrictions were placed, U.S. entries dropped from 8,000 crossings per day at the beginning of March to 3,500 by March 15, Trautman said, pointing to the data as an indicator to the effect of public health concerns. “Even if the border was open right now, there would still be less people going back-andforth because people are scared,” Trautman said. The last time border crossing dropped significantly was after 9/11, Trautman said. Cross-border numbers dropped 40-50 percent in the months following the attack. The 9 million people who crossed the border in 2000 dropped to 7.5 million in 2001, Trautman said. By 2002, it dropped to 7 million people and stayed low until 2010, when the Vancouver Olympics and a stronger Canadian dollar improved border numbers to 11.9 million entries. In 2019,
12.2 million people crossed the border. “It’s not a perfect comparison but I think the thing we can learn from that situation is that once the numbers dropped, it took a while for them to come back,” Trautman said. Trautman said current lower gas prices in B.C. – the lowest sine December 2016, according to Statistics Canada – could also keep Canadians on their side of
the border. Despite the border closure, Trautman said the region has great cross-border relations with people who continue to work together. “Hopefully, by keeping that communication open, although we’re not moving back-andforth, we still have a very strong cross-border relationship,” Trautman said. “It makes our region more resilient.”
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The Northern Light • May 21 - 27, 2020
Opinion
The Northern L ght The Northern Light is published weekly by Point Roberts Press Inc. Locally owned and managed, the company also publishes the All Point Bulletin, covering Point Roberts, Mount Baker Experience, covering the Mt. Baker foothills area, 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.
Plenty of room for beach-goers at low tide
Publisher & Managing Editor Patrick Grubb publisher@pointrobertspress.com Co-publisher & Advertising Director Louise Mugar lmugar@pointrobertspress.com
s Sunbathers find plenty of space for physical distancing on the beach at Semiahmoo Bay over the weekend.
Editor Oliver Lazenby oliver@pointrobertspress.com Copy Editor Aly Siemion aly@pointrobertspress.com Reporter Grace McCarthy grace@pointrobertspress.com Reporting Intern 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 Contributors In This Issue Sophia Levetsovitis, Kaatri Glanzer, Kiera May The Northern Light 225 Marine Drive, Suite 200, Blaine, WA 98230 Tel: 360/332-1777 Vol XXV, No 48 Circulation: 10,500 copies
Circulation Independently verified by:
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Photo by Louise Mugar
Letters The Editor: I cannot imagine what prompted the city of Blaine to devise a new director’s position to accommodate a staff member’s “preferred” line of work due to their numerous surgeries over the past year. Other city departments remain understaffed and poorly equipped to effectively do their jobs. And why pay a recruiting company when our assistant director was highly regarded and more than capable to take the director of public works position – another costly mistake for the city of Blaine. Now we have three highly paid leadership positions in one department for the city of Blaine, population 5,500. Just does not make sense – and the city leaders are wringing their hands over $700,000 in lost revenue? Our community deserves better leadership! Mike Lucas Blaine The Editor: My husband and I are a cross-border couple. He is staying in White Rock working and I am staying at our house in Blaine. We have been overjoyed to be able to meet at the recently opened Peace Arch Park at the border a few times this month. This past weekend I was chatting with both the U.S. Border Patrol and Ranger Rick, of the Park Services. Unfortunately, there is a chance that the park will be shut down – even perhaps this week – as people are not abiding by or respecting the distancing and numbers of people in their group. With Memorial Day weekend coming up, I hope The Northern Light might publish a reminder to our community of the importance of following the rules/law. If people do not, then the privilege of the
park is closed to everyone, and that especially hurts the separated families. It was my correct assumption that Peace Arch State Park is the only one in North America to be a “neutral territory” and both Canadian and American citizens are able to enjoy it together. We need to honor our rare privilege to share this park. Susan Pendleton Blaine/White Rock The Editor: The evidence is in. Health officials strongly recommend face coverings to help contain the coronavirus’ spread. To reopen society and the economy as seamlessly as possible, face masks should be required – not just recommended – while people are interacting with others outside their homes. Dr. Frank James, health officer of San Juan County, issued an order supported by the health board, to wear a cloth mask when mingling in public. Community efforts have stopped the coronavirus in the island archipelago. Dr. James wants to keep it that way. We’ve all heard the idiom “to cut off one’s nose to spite one’s face.” In the context of the raging “masklash” fomented by right wing media figures, the expression aptly describes a needlessly self-destructive over-reaction to a (manufactured) problem, in which people acting out of pique and political revenge end up causing damage not only to themselves, but potentially to everyone they encounter including their own family members. How can a person justify that? Those who have turned wearing masks into yet another front in the incessant culture wars will inflict a heavy price, one that will be largely paid by them. If you don’t
believe me, Rod Dreher, in The American Conservative, writes that wearing a mask “offers the opportunity to ease back into normal life ... the very thing conservatives want.” Dreher blames “unhinged rightwing ideologues” for creating the backlash against masks. If we think of masks as a tool towards recovery, and not a symbol of political outrage, there would be greater acceptance. I encourage you to contact the Whatcom County health department, our mayors, our county officials to issue a mask order from a fact-based perspective, as Dr. James did for San Juan County. We need consistent, reliable leadership on this issue. No shirt, no shoes, no masks ... no service. Micki Jackson Bellingham The Editor: As an elder citizen trying to survive this dreadful pandemic, I sincerely appreciate the efforts local businesses are making to keep us safer, offering senior shopping hours, increased sanitizing, creating more space in stores to social distance and the like. I am pleased to see more and more store employees and customers wearing face masks. I am spending a good deal of my time at home sewing these masks for family and friends. Using a mask may slow the spread of the virus, and those who wear them are showing their concern for others, especially the most vulnerable among us. Thank you for doing this despite the personal inconvenience. Please note, you must cover both your nose and mouth! I am surprised to see some people wearing a mask over the (See Letters, page 5)
May 21 - 27, 2020 • thenorthernlight.com
Young Reporters Attention all kids of Blaine, Birch Bay and Semiahmoo! The Northern Light is looking for young reporters and photographers. For the next several weeks, we will be offering newsroom assignments for any interested students. Each newsroom assignment will come out in the paper on Thursday and young reporters can submit their work by 5 p.m. the following Thursday. Submissions should be emailed by a parent or legal guardian to kristin@pointrobertspress.com and should include the parent’s contact number as well as the young reporter’s name and age. Following each assignment, three winning submissions will be chosen, one from each of three age groups if possible: 6 to 9 years, 10 to 13 years and 14 to 18 years. Winners are selected by Kristin Siemion, a certified teacher who is a print and digital media specialist with The Northern Light. Prior to publication, parent permission slips will be required. Winning submissions will be published in The Northern Light, and their authors will receive a certificate and three-day YMCA youth pass. Assignment #6: In each neighborhood or even within our family there are interesting things that happen. Maybe someone’s dog had puppies, or maybe their was a birthday parade with cars on your street or maybe its just a funny story that happened in your familychoose a news story you would like to share. When writing the story- remember to answer the 5 Ws- Where, When , Who, What and Why (Where did the story happen, When did it happen, Who did it happen to, and Why did it happen). Be sure to ask permission to share the story from those folks referenced in the story.
Letters... From page 4
mouth only. No! Your mask is practically useless unless you cover both! Please make sure you wear it correctly! Nancy K. Sheng Bellingham The Editor: Our country is so divided, and Covid-19 has contributed to the schism. When we combine politics with science in today’s hyper-partisan environment, we end up with politics winning. That’s deadly in this pandemic. If the virus were a foreign threat, with enemies sending bombing sorties, and governor Inslee told us to turn out our lights for blackout protection, halt economic activity, would people be protesting and keeping lights illuminated because they could? Even if it got us killed? I hope not. I hope we’d agree that we have an obligation, working together, to protect our community from this invisible threat. We need to protect each other; one way is to wear a mask in public. Some people think wearing a mask infringes on personal freedom. Many think the death rate for Covid-19 is not a big deal. They should consider the thousands who “survive” the disease but will never return to the lives they had. For example, Nick Cordero, a 41-year-old Tony-nominated actor, is struggling with Covid-19. Nick was admitted to the ER; put into a medically-induced coma; intubated; ventilated; suffered cardiac arrest requiring resuscitation; suffered multiple ministrokes; restricted blood flow to leg; amputation of right leg; sepsis infection; septic shock; fungus causing holes that make his lungs look like a 50-year smoker. His 10-month-old son and wife are waiting for any good news. Nick is not out of the woods. It’s too soon to know what his cognitive function will be. Please stay home and, if you must go out, wear a mask! Sheri Lambert Laurel
The Editor: A number of years back, Gerald Baron shifted from jobs cleaning up tragedy-engulfed messes on the records of corporations like BP and Olympic Pipeline Company, to his current role as executive director for Save Family Farming. In a 2018 book, he outlined using radical rules to attack immigrant and farmworker advocate leaders of Community to Community Development (C2C) and Familias Unidas por la Justicia (FUJ), with a focus to “defeat them.” Baron has picked out Rosalinda Guillen of C2C and has gone to lengths of making untrue statements about her that have been allowed to appear in print, uncorrected, by some news media outlets. Leading up to a recent period of agricultural worker strikes for safety measures and hazard pay at seven fruit packing plants in Yakima Valley during the pandemic, Baron, and Save Family Farming’s communications director Dillon Honcoop have campaigned against protective measures for workers sought to be included in Washington state’s just-released emergency Covid-19 rules for
temporary agricultural housing. Instead of recognizing the need for calling for the strongest safeguards possible for frontline workers, they have chosen to denounce the people calling for them. Meanwhile, the exemplary reputation created by C2C and FUJ through years of building a community based in dignity does not need any emergency response, but the lives and well-being of our invaluable ag workers do. Contact governor Inslee at 360/902-4111 to insist on funding for meaningful enforcement of Covid-19 agricultural worker housing, workplace, and transportation rules. Dena Jensen Birch Bay
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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.
Tuesday, May 26 (Monday the 25th is Memorial Day) 6:00pm – Regular City Council Meeting
Monday, June 8 6:00pm – Regular City Council Meeting
Thursday, June 11 6:00pm – Planning Commission Meeting Public Hearing – To Accept Public Testimony on the East Maple Ridge PUD and Preliminary Plat Application
Monday, June 22 6:00pm – Regular City Council Meeting Public Hearing – Six Year Transportation Improvement Plan 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.
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The Northern Light • May 21 - 27, 2020
County issues directive to wear face masks, beginning May 22 B y P a t G r u bb Whatcom County health officer Dr. Greg Stern has issued a directive effective Friday, May 22 that those individuals in shared workplaces and public spaces should wear cloth masks. King County has also issued a health directive to the same effect. In a media briefing on May 18, county health department director Erika Lautenbach said people
should “think of masks just like having reusable bags in their cars and to make wearing masks normal behavior. Masks are a proven strategy to reduce transmission of the virus. We’re in this together.” Lautenbach added that the county could be moving to Phase 2 of Safe Start Washington, the state’s plan to re-open the economy, in as little as two weeks’ time. In Stern’s directive, he stated, “There are several reasons for the directive, including maintaining
the gains achieved through existing social distancing measures like the statewide stay-at-home order. Limiting virus transmission is especially important as summer approaches and more workplaces and businesses reopen. Most of the measures restricting activities and closing businesses worked by keeping people away from each other and from infected surfaces.” He added, “These measures
helped us avoid high levels of Covid-19 disease, hospitalizations, and death. However, Covid-19 has not gone away. As we loosen restrictions in order to sustain our economy, we risk losing the progress we have already made in controlling the spread.” Amy Hockenberry, the county’s health information and assessment supervisor, described the department’s efforts in tracing contacts of known cases, saying,
“This is work we do, day in and day out” when tracking down possible exposure to measles and STDs, for example. Hockenberry pointed out the department is “still seeing a continuing spread of Covid-19 in our communities” and stressed the need for people to continue practicing known strategies to reduce transmission, including physical distancing, washing hands, and frequently sanitizing surfaces and objects that others touch.
...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
Hello Blaine Residents!
It’s spring cleaning time and we need your help!
Common complaints we receive this time of year relate to: • Overgrown grass • Plants growing over sidewalks • Windfall debris • Dumping of household items on sidewalks
Overgrown vegetation and illegal dumping can lead to fines. Please do your part to control vegetation and clean responsibly this spring and summer.
ALLEY AUTO INC 365 D Street • 360-332-7018
MON-FRI 8AM TO 5:30PM
Image courtesy of the Whatcom County Health Department
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!
s A map released on May 14 by the Whatcom County Health Department shows Covid-19 cases by school district area. The cases are not associated with schools – districts are just used to show location. The Blaine school district area, with 30 cases, has the second highest rate of cases in Whatcom County. As of May 19, the health department was reporting 361 confirmed cases to date in Whatcom County and 32 deaths from the virus. In Washington state, 18,811 have tested positive for Covid-19 and 1,031 have died, according to the Washington State Department of Health. Across the globe, about five million have tested positive for the virus, including more than 1.5 million in the U.S.
We won’t be undersold on all truck, car and motorhome tires!
CONGRATULATE YOUR 2020 GRAD with a personal message!
PUBLISHED IN
We’re Open! Social distancing, in-car service & other precautions.
Blaine High School Class of 2020 Special Keepsake Pull-Out Section LARGE* In the June 1 1 issue!
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FERNDALE LUBE
Locally owned by Blaine residents. 5585 Labounty Road • (360) 383-0205 NEW Store Hours: Closed Sun. OPEN: Mon.-Tues.-Fri 9-5:30 • Sat 8:30-4:30 Directions: Ferndale Main St. Exit 262, off I-5, West on Main St., Left on Labounty.
NEWSPAPER
Ad Deadline: JUNE 4 *Photos only for medium and large size ads.
Morty,
We’re very proud of you & love you!
- Mom, Dad, Summer, & GrandpaRick
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Call Molly at 360/332-1777 sales@pointrobertspress.com
May 21 - 27, 2020 • thenorthernlight.com
Local restaurants can now sell pre-mixed cocktails to-go By Oliver Lazenby In a new stay home order allowance, restaurants with a license to serve spirits, beer and wine can now sell pre-mixed cocktails to-go, the Washington State Liquor and Cannabis Board announced on May 6. The new rule was effective immediately. Some local restaurants started serving pre-mixed drinks right away, while others started working toward being able to. The rule comes with some stipulations – a complete meal must be ordered with the cocktail and the drink must be in a non-Styrofoam container with a secure lid or cap with no hole for sipping or for a straw. The pre-mixed drinks must be placed in the trunk or out of reach of the driver. Bob’s Burgers and Brew in Birch Bay started selling select pre-mixed cocktails in glass jars soon after hearing about the rule change, said general manager Cody Bowden. The new allowance adds about $200 to $300 to the restaurant’s revenue on Friday and Saturday nights, he said.
“It has definitely had a positive impact on our business,” he said. “It would have been nice to be able to do it right away when we were shut down. It’s hard to tell people for two months that we’re not doing it and then start selling cocktails again. It’s not on their minds anymore.” Paso del Norte in Blaine plans to offer pre-mixed cocktails starting this week, said owner Miguel Ramos. Ramos ordered a machine for sealing plastic cups, which will be cheaper than other state-allowed containers such as glass jars. Paso del Norte currently offers a margarita that comes with a small sealed bottle of tequila, and other kits for mixing drinks at home. The liquor board began allowing restaurants and bars to sell sealed liquor bottles with food in late March. When he can start selling premixed drinks rather than kits, Ramos will make about 65 cents more per drink, he said. About 35 percent of customers order a drink, and most of those orders are for margaritas. “I’m super happy that the state did it,” he said. “It’s going to be a
s Though the state now allows restaurants to sell pre-mixed cocktails, the Vault Bistro and Wine Bar in Blaine will continue selling cocktails in kits, as pictured at right. Top photo by Louise Mugar. Cocktail kit photo courtesy of the Vault Wine Bar and Bistro
good thing for us.” The Vault Wine Bar and Bistro in Blaine doesn’t serve hard liquor, but it began offering kits for making mimosas and other drinks with fresh-squeezed juice and sparkling wine soon after restaurants were ordered to close. Despite the new state law, the Vault will continue to offer its drinks
WHAT’S OPEN Bow Wow & Woofs
Offering Curbside Pick up! Rear of the store! Order online or Call 360-332-3647 to place your order. Frankie’s & Kerry’s Angel Fund is a Pet Pantry set up at the front of the store during Business Hours. Selection changes on a daily basis depending on donations of basic dog & cat foods. This is for individuals in the Blaine/Birch Bay area in need. Please take only what you need so others may also partake. Unopened Bags and cans and donations gratefully accepted! bowwowwoofs.com
Peace Arch Real Estate
Office is closed, but agents are working remotely to list and purchase homes. Virtual tours, e-signings, and wire transfers are available. Showings are possible by appointment only and with only 1 person and agent. peacearchrealestate.com
Law Offices of Roger Ellingson, PS
We are still open working on wills, contracts, family law, business formation, and litigation. Potential clients are welcome to call us at 360/332-7000 - we can effectively meet your legal needs via telephone and videoconferencing. northwhatcomlaw.com
Blaine Bouquets
Blaine Bouquets
Our storefront is closed. Taking orders on our website and phone in. “No contact” deliveries or pick up curbside. You can order ‘’curbside”-speak through our front door. Open Mon-Fri 10 am to 2 ish. 360/332-6700. blainebouquets.net
Spoken Designs
In this difficult season, we are still available to assist business owners with websites and marketing projects. Potential clients are welcome to call us at 360/603-0793. spokendesigns.com
Silver Reef Casino Resort
We have temporarily suspended all operations. When the time is right to reopen, we will adhere to our stringent cleaning & disinfection efforts for everyone’s safety. We are accepting virtual appts for meetings/weddings booking for future dates. silverreefcasino.com
Day-to-Day Dance Studio We are offering all our classes virtually. Hours vary. See schedule at daytodaydance. com
Blaine Chamber of Commerce
Our hearts go out to you, your families, and all of our communities during this uncertain time. While this is a challenging, scary situation for everyone, we know that it is especially difficult for those, like so many of you, who are working to build a new business or keep a small, local business afloat. Now and always, you are our greatest inspiration. If we can assist you in any way during this difficult time, please reach out to our program coordinator, Donna Raimey. blainechamber.com
Fortiphi Insurance
Our business is all about serving you. We know COVID-19 is impacting many of our valued clients and Fortiphi has a business continuity and technology strategy in place to allow us to continue to provide uninterrupted service to you during this time. You can call us at 360/332-7300 or email at info@fortiphi.com and our team is happy to assist new and existing clients. We’re so grateful to service your insurance, locally. Our best to you and yours during this time! fortiphi.com
Dank of America
Open 7-days a week. Safety is our highest priority! We have a hand wash station and hand sanitizer for our customers. Please visit our website for further info on our precautions and specials. Call in ordering available. DankofAmericaBlaine.com
Launching Success
Open to the public with a limit of 10 people in store. Taking orders by phone, email, Facebook messenger and on website. Offering free delivery and parking lot pick-up. We will work with whatever works for you and your families! We’ve created learning kits at different price levels that you can customize for each kiddo in your life. Check them out on our website. launchingsuccess. com
in kits so that the ingredients are fresh and the wine is still bubbling, co-owner Joni Finston said. The new state allowance isn’t permanent and will expire within 30 days of the restaurant’s county entering phase four of the state’s four-phase plan, the liquor and cannabis board said when announcing the new rule.
For more listings and to add your business to the online service for free, visit:
www.thenorthernlight.com/whatsopen Washi Arts
We are taking orders from our website washiarts.com for shipment or curbside pickup. washiarts.com
HomeSmart One Realty
I’m a Managing Broker who lives and works in the Birch Bay/Blaine area. I’m available, by appointment only, to assist you with the sale or purchase of properties anywhere within Whatcom County. Properties can be shown to clients, one at a time, while maintaining the required 6-ft social distancing measures and wearing the required gloves and face masks. Purchase contracts can be facilitated online through the AuthentiSign, secure document process. realtybyhart.com
In Bloom Homestead
We continue to offer floral services and provide contactless delivery options to our customers. Also, our handmade gift products are available for purchase through the website as well including soap, candles, massage oils, and more. inbloomhomestead.com
Dairy Distributing, Inc.
No contact, drivers wear masks and gloves; email orders preferred at dairytoyourdoorstep@gmail.com or call 360/734-3019. Check Facebook for products and pricing. facebook.com/DairyDist/
Loomis Trail Golf Course
The beautiful Loomis Trail Golf Course in Blaine opened on May 5th! The clubhouse is clean and sanitized, the course is pristine, you can pre-pay online or by phone and maintain social distancing while you enjoy the greens. Book your tee times today! golfloomis.com
Lil Sprouts Child Care
Now enrolling children ages 1yr to 12yrs, open Monday - Friday, 7am - 6pm. Fully licensed child care following CDC recommended guidelines offering daily structured curriculum, large outdoor play space, and healthy meals. Subsidized care accepted. Call 360/332-8010 to schedule a tour.
Birch Bay Family Medicine
Family Care Network’s Birch Bay Family Medicine is open Mon-Fri 8am-5pm. Our top priority is to provide safe, timely, medically appropriate care to all of our patients. We use a variety of precautionary measures to reduce the risk of exposure to patients being seen in person. We also offer telemedicine visits – so you can access secure, convenient virtual healthcare from anywhere. Learn more at familycarenetwork.com. We’re here for you when you need us.
Washington Fireworks Superstore
Your year-round source for quality fireworks. Whether you are an extreme pyro or you are looking for safe and sane fireworks, we have everything you need for your show. We are available for your pyrotechnic needs, for birthdays, weddings, celebrations, Fourth of July, Chinese New Year, Halloween, New Years Eve or just for fun! wafireworks.com
The Vault Wine Bar and Bistro
We are offering 4 days/week take out meals with a rotating menu. Our weekly menu can be seen at thevaultwine.com. We offer credit card payment over the phone and delivery to your car. Call 360/961-3987 from 9 am - 9 pm Mon - Sat to order, pay, and arrange curbside pick up on the designated day. thevaultwine.com
Gentle Heart Hypnotherapy
We offer a mental vacation from all the stress that comes with Corona Virus, and our “new normal.” In the first session, Kestrel will teach you Self-Hypnosis. Self-Hypnosis will help you let go of stress and tension quickly. It is normal to be overwhelmed, angry or exhausted during this time. Hypnotherapy can help. We have adapted to keep clients safe. Hypnotherapy Sessions are offered online or over the phone. Billing is through email invoicing. GentleHeartHypnotherapy.com
Green Leaf Cannabis
We have the county’s only drive up, cubside or walk up window, we have put plexi barriers up and all staff are wearing face masks. You can also phone ahead orders to speed time at window. greenleafnw.com
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The Northern Light • May 21 - 27, 2020
Young Reporters
The Northern Light newsroom assignments by students in the Blaine & Birch Bay area.
In the May 7 issue of The Northern Light, we offered local kids the following newsroom assignment: Can kids make a difference in their communities and neighborhoods during the governor’s stay-at-home order? This is a tough question. Young reporters were asked to think of ways that kids can help in their communities and neighborhoods and explain their idea(s) in 200 words or less for elementary school students and 350 words or less for middle school and high school students. Here are the winning submissions. Congratulations to our winners, who will receive certificates and YMCA passes! For details about our Young Reporters series and the next assignment, turn to page 5.
Millions of things to do for our community
Local kids do good during stay-at-home order
B y S op h i a L e v e t so v i t i s age 10
B y K i e r a M ay age 11
There are a lot of great things we can do for our community. We could take people’s grocery orders and pick them up, with parents of course. We could mow people’s lawns, or pull weeds if you’re younger, because a lot of companies are shut down and some elderly people may not be able to do it themselves. Set chairs six feet apart to just talk with your neighbors. Just yesterday, Karen, the elderly lady across the
street, she has chairs set up six feet apart and my cousin and I went and visited with her for 15 minutes. I could tell she really enjoyed it. There are millions of things we can do for our community. I think we need to advertise it! What can you do in your community during Covid-19 lock-down to make a difference?
Because this year is different.
Honor My Grad!
The class of 2020 has had it tough and The Northern Light has launched a new online feature to help you tell the world how proud you are of your 2020 Grad. List your 2020 Grad for FREE, or make a big splash and upgrade to a personalized page with additional fun family photos, a video and more for only $35.
FREE Listing You did it! Find a student
GO
Arrange by ...
Proudly sponsored by:
CENTER CITY FLORAL
Helping you celebrate since 1944
Sports, clubs, activities
Pick another school
Zach Richards
James O’Leary
Sally Bender
Scott Greenway
Dean’s List. High Distinction. Debate Club, Mock Trial. Tennis and golf teams ...
Jazz band. Robotics club. Future engineers. Rotary Club Essay Winner ...
Something about this student here and here and here and here and here and here ...
Something about this student here and here and here and here and here and here ...
2020 GRADS
Want to really make a splash? VIEW ALL GRADS | HONOR MY GRAD
CENTRAL HIGH SCHOOL SCHOOL BLAINE HIGH Will Brown Emmy Kingslee
Lily Hunter
Sally Bender
Max Hedlinger
Senior Class President. National Honor Society. Theater and dance ...
THIS PAGE SPONSORED BY WILLIAM BENDER AND GINA RUGGIERO
HONORS: National Honor Society,
Sean Heyman Basketball and track teams. Model United Nations. Most likely to succeed ...
Jackson Danita Wheeler Kyle Dayne OTHERJon ACTIVITIES: Debate club, theater, jazz band
Something about this student here and here and here and here and here and here ... ...
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Upgraded Personalized Page
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here and here and here and here and here and here and SPORTS: Tennis and golf teams. here and here and here ... ... here and here and here ... ...
Your FREE listing includes: Ability to upload your 2020 Grad photo of choice, list any honors, activities, etc. School graduating from, Grad’s name, and your name appears as “This Page Sponsored By.”
For just $35 you can expand your Grad’s page with fun family photos/video, highlights, memories, a favorite quote, a top 10 list. You can even invite up to 6 family and friends to contribute to your page. PLUS, share your Grad’s page with family and friends on Facebook!
This online feature will stay online till December 2020. This promotion is not in conjunction with our Blaine High School Graduation 2020 pullout section that will be published in The Northern Light newspaper on June 11.
Community Newspaper for Blaine & Birch Bay 360-332-1777
Get started honoring your Grad today at:
2020 GRADS
During the Governors Stay-athome order, a few local kids have been taking this new free time to do good for their neighborhood. My brother Ryder May and other local kids have been doing good for their community by doing garbage pick up. Ryder has been wanting to help his community as much as possible during the Stay-at-home order, and he has found this to be a much needed contribution to society. About four times a week, these kids can be seen out with their buckets and gloves, picking up litter from the sides of roads and trails. Ryder thinks it is very important to take care of the environment, because he wants a better world for future generations, and this is the first step. He picks up about four buckets a week of plastic, cans, and other trash from the sides of roads. However, this garbage pick up has more than one purpose. Not only is he keeping his community clean, but he is also able to set a good example for any other children who may want to be a help to the neighborhood, such as myself and my friends. Our entire family did a garbage pick up of almost the entire neighborhood of Bay Crest for Earth Day. Ryder wants to help the en-
Ryder May picking up litter. Photo by Kiera May
vironment and pick up garbage because the woods surrounding our neighborhood are full of rabbits, birds, and sometimes even coyotes! The neighborhood also has an alarming amount of outdoor cats, including one I have befriended, Benny. He wants a safe environment for these animals, so they will not be at risk of accidentally choking on garbage. The Whatcom Humane Society plays a heavy role in his life. He helped me run a food drive for the Humane Society last summer, and the experience helped him grow a heavy love for cats. He and the other local kids have made a heavy impact on their community, and it shows.
VIEW ALL GRADS | HONOR MY GRAD
UNIVERSITY IOWA BLAINE HIGHOFSCHOOL
Zach Richards THIS PAGE SPONSORED BY SEAN AND ANGELA RICHARDS
‹
QUOTABLE “Quit worrying about stupid things.” TOP TEN FAVORITE FOODS 1. Pizza 2. Pizza 3. Pizza 4. Chocolate cookies 5. Potato chips 6. Soda 7. Any dessert 8. Burgers 9. Mom’s pie 10. Pizza
› RECOGNITIONS: Dean’s List OTHER HONORS: High Distinction OTHER ACTIVITIES: Debate Club, Mock Trial SPORTS: Tennis and golf teams FAVORITES: Homecoming is always a blast, vibrant atmosphere, friendly people. A STORY: I’ll always remember Prof. Larsen and how he made a topic I thought would be boring (International Relations) into something I want to spend my life pursuing. Who knew I’d enjoy negotiating and cultural studies? HIGHLIGHTS: In sophomore year, my roommates and I really hit it off — we ate, studied and traveled (DAYTONA BEACH YEAH!!!) together, and found off-campus apartments to share since then. Now we’re planning to find a place in the city and look for jobs. Also, my semester in Buenos Aires gave me so many great memories. JOBS: Campus 911 dispatcher, development office assistant, admissions office assistant. ETC.: We took some of the best road trips. Whenever we could, we set up our class schedule so we had three-day weekends, and could hit the road. We went everywhere: Chicago to listen to the blues, Kansas City to eat barbeque, Des Moines because Evan’s grandma lives there, the Mall of America because we wanted to go to Legoland and The Void, St. Louis to listen to the blues and eat barbecue! LOOKING FORWARD: A little time off, then it’s time to find a job. Grad school may be in my future, too.
Good luck, buddy!
Congrat’s Zach, wishing you all the best…….. ”Uncle” Tim Finch
Remember this?
Seems like only yesterday you were at Holy Family! Love you, Mrs. Green
I love teasing you!
We could always count on you to Am, aut lacearistias ea dolup taectem inimolo riorrum faccum aut optio te eaqui tempore heniati umquas ex eat. Lor adit volupturio id Am, aut lacearistias ea doluptaectem inimolo riorrum faccum aut optio te eaqui tempore heniati umquas ex eat. Lor adit volupturio id Best wishes, Billie and Bobby
We LOVE you!
So proud of you Zach, Love you, Grandma Richards
All my best wishes
I don’t remember all my 5th graders, but you were a special one and I’m so proud of you for getting your degree. You’re going to go places! Mrs, Wheeler
Learning to drive
Occus reicite stiunt earchil latiam sus eos consecum dellam fugit hil in conet latur aute et occullu ptaepud isinctisti optam acesti ad Your cousins
pointroberts.HonorMyGrad.com
Four great ideas to make a difference in your community or neighborhood By Kaatri Glanzer, Age 14 This is a great time to make an impact locally. Here are four ideas that kids can use to make a difference in their neighborhoods. Bake treats to deliver to people around your neighborhood. Walk a cookie or a cupcake to the person who lives next to you. Even better, you could make a big batch of cupcakes and give them out to whoever wants one. Just remember to stay six feet away! Or if you play an instrument, throw open a window and play something for all to hear. It would be good to get some practice in and will definitely make the neighborhood less quiet and fill the lonely hearts with joy. If you are an artist you could
make art for people to hang up in their windows. There are a lot of online art tutorials out there that are easy to follow along with and take very few supplies. Whether it’s acrylic or watercolor or pastel, I’m sure a colorful picture will fill all the hearts around you with joy. Calling a relative or a friend could make all the difference as well. Just a simple hello to your grandparent would probably brighten up their day if they’re living alone. Offer the people around you your talent to make their day. Whether it’s a sugary treat, wonderful artwork, or just a compliment I’m sure the person you’re giving it to would greatly appreciate it!
May 21 - 27, 2020 • thenorthernlight.com
ADVICE FROM THE PROS Q: How much is my home worth? A: Are you thinking of listing your property
Julia Mullenix 978 Peace Portal Drive Blaine, WA 98230
(360) 922-0102
and notice that online estimates are all over the place? Maybe you recently remodeled or added onto your house and wonder how anyone would know to include that. The short answer is they would not. To get an accurate valuation, you need a local real estate expert to listen to you, understand the details of your specific situation, compare that to the market, and give you an honest evaluation and marketing plan. We can do that. Start by contacting us directly by phone or email. An even easier way is to fill out a description at www.peacearchrealestate.com/home-valuation/ Our analysis is free, and commission rates are always negotiable.
Q:
A Special Section of published monthly on the 3rd Thursday of the month
A:
Q: Is now a good time to refinance? A: Yes.
Interest rates are very low, and they should remain that way through the end of the year. Talk to a lender to see if it makes sense to refinance while considering your current rate and situation. Taking equity out for improveLoren Adkins ments, consolidation of bills, or refinancing to Senior Real Estate improve the Rate and Term on a current balLoan Officer ance, can all make sense. Plenty of options exNMLS# 643779 Office: (360) 647-4425 ist, and the process is more streamlined than you might think. You may not even need an Cell: (360) 303-8599 loren.adkins@peoplesbank-wa.com appraisal.
julia@peacearchrealestate.com
www.peacearchrealestate.com
Q: A:
Bellingham Real Estate Loan Center • 3100 Woburn St. • Bellingham WA, 98226
Q: Does Capstone make custom shoe
If someone skips their mortgage payments does their homeowners insurance get cancelled?
No, if you skip your mortgage payment because you cannot afford your insurance, it will not get cancelled. The mortgage company has an insurable interest in the property, however, the lender can put forced place insurance on your home which is more expensive and has less coverage than the insurance policy you were paying on. If you cannot pay the forced place insurance and your home goes into foreclosure the monies owed will come from the sale of your home.
orthotics/inserts?
A: All clinics at Capstone have clinicians that are trained in Jeannett Penner, DPT,OCS, GCS Director of Rehabilitation Capstone Physical Therapy
Personal Lines Manager
1733 H Street, Suite 400 Blaine, WA 98230 360-332-5111
Christine.Roubidoux@fortiphi.com
www.capstonept.com
Christine Roubidoux
288 Martin St. Downtown Blaine (360) 332-7300 (604) 256-1384
casting and fitting patients with custom shoe orthotics. Orthotic inserts can be very helpful for correcting mechanical deviations such as pronation, supination, etc. and also provide increased foot support and correct movement of the foot. Often, proper foot mechanics can resolve knee, hip and back pain symptoms. Therapists at Capstone also work with this patient population to help improve balance, strength, flexibility and walking. Physical Therapists and Occupational Therapists at Capstone are therapy specialists and have advanced training to offer you the very best care for your individual therapy needs.
ALL CAPSTONE CLINICS ARE NOW OPEN.
Capstone is accepting new patients at our new Birch Bay Square location and our Blaine clinic on H Street. 825 Birch Bay Square Street, Suite 248 Blaine, WA 98230
360-366-5511
www.fortiphi.com
Advice
from the
PROS
You are the expert and you have the answers for our readers... Your Potential Clients This monthly feature provides you an opportunity to speak to the Blaine, Birch Bay and Semiahmoo community and answer some of their specific questions or some general questions from your business that almost every new client wants to know. Your ad will be 5” wide x 4” tall, in full color with your photo and contact information plus your question and answer.
EXCLUSIVITY - Each business category is limited to one advertiser.
Here’s your opportunity to voice your expertise! To reserve space call 360-332-1777 Community Newspaper for Blaine & Birch Bay
Blaine
Cordata
Lynden
Ferndale
Barkley
Q: I received a loan through the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP). How does forgiveness work?
A: PPP loans may be forgiven based on the use of the proceeds during the eight-week
period following the disbursement date. A minimum of 75% of the loan proceeds must be used for eligible payroll costs (gross wages; and employer portion of group health care benefits, retirement benefits, and state or local taxes assessed on employee compensation). The remaining 25% can be used for other eligible business costs (rent, utilities, and mortgage interest). A reduction in number of full-time employees (FTEs) will decrease the maximum forgivable amount regardless of actual payroll costs. The number of FTEs must be reinstated by the end of the eight-week period to avoid reduction. If an employee refuses to return to work, an employer can count the employee if documentation is kept as proof that a written offer for rehire was extended to the employee. Reduction in payroll costs will decrease the eligible amount of forgiveness when payroll costs fall below 75% of the total loan amount. Loan forgiveness applications and supporting documentation can be submitted to the lender up to 90 days following the end of the eight-week period after disbursement date.
Kristen Polley, Accountant 8105 Birch Bay Square St. • Suite 102
360-393-3658 • BirchBayTaxAndAccounting.com
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The Northern Light • May 21 - 27, 2020
Pets & Pet Care
Best Photo Clips, Tips and products for a healthier, happier pet!
Bow Wow and Woofs owner starts free pet food pantry outside her Birch Bay shop suppliers to see if they would be willing to kick in. So far, manufacturers who have contributed include Evanger’s, KLN Pet Products, Champion Pet Foods, and Red Barn Pet Products. Campbell has already donated 450 pounds of food. “I think we need to give back at this time more than any,” she said. “We need to show kindness. I encourage anyone who has a pet store or a farm store to set up a food donation bin.” Campbell named her initiative Mr. Kerry’s Pet Pantry for Pets in Need, in honor of her beloved 15-year-old cairn terrier Mr. Kerry, who died April 27 after a three-year battle with Cushing’s disease. Helping other animals was the best way she could think of to honor her dearly departed dog. For more information about the pet food pantry, email Campbell at bowwowandwoofs@comcast.net, or call 360/332-3647.
Heather Campbell, owner of Bow Wow and Woofs pet supply shop in Birch Bay Square, started a mini pet food bank outside her shop to help pet owners in need. “At this time of Covid-19, the last thing we need is people having to give up their babies because they can’t afford to feed them,” Campbell said. “We can’t allow this bond to be broken. You’ve got people who had no problem paying for their dog and cat food before. But right now, they’re in a place they’ve never been.” Each day, Campbell sets up a food station on the sidewalk with a variety of free offerings. Campbell grew inspired to launch her project on April 17 when she began hearing that people were having a hard time paying for basic needs, including pet food. She donated her own money and collected funds from caring customers who weren’t affected financially but wanted to help others. She also approached her
s Bow Wow and Woofs owner Heather Campbell with her dog Pepper, and the pet food pantry outside her shop. Photo by Molly Ernst
P
et P aparazzi
from The Northern Light readers!
Kulshan Veterinary Hospital s Kaitlyn Gottier’s handsome cat. S Buster Bronco, the Simpson family Beagle. Providing our patients and clients with the highest quality team oriented veterinary care emphasizing respect, dignity and compassion.
• Exams & Vaccinations • Surgery & Dentistry
T Mark and Julie Adams’ dog, Buffy Adams. S Annie (brown) and Emma (black), labradoodles owned by Jan Horn and Kristin Dunkin.
2 Locations to serve all your pet needs: FERNDALE • 6220 Portal Way
LYNDEN • 8880 Benson Rd.
I-5 Exit 263
at the corner of Badger Rd. and Benson Rd.
360-354-5095
KulshanVet.com
ADOPT A PET! We’re looking for good homes! To adopt one of us please call our Adoptions department at (360) 733-2080
Or visit us at 2172 Division St., Bellingham, WA 98226 Hi, I’m Luru!
Hi, I’m Ed!
Hi, I’m Graham!
Hi, I’m Moses!
View more about us at www.whatcomhumane.org
May 21 - 27, 2020 • thenorthernlight.com
11
NEXT ISSUE: May 28 AD DEADLINE: May 22
CLASSIFIEDS
MARKETPLACE 8-23-18 replace wording..."Now enrolling for Fall. Full-time and part-time preschool options." (last ad 39763.pdf).
Announcements
Child Care
’s Mike
Dollar$ Plus
OPEN: Mon-Fri 6am - 6pm
Now Enrolling 1 month - 12 years old Full-time and part-time preschool options.
Call today! 360-332-7135
Construction
RESPECT YOUR VETERANS
Birch Bay Square-Unit 116 • I-5, Exit 270
360-656-5201
Since 1973
TWO BROTHERS
MASONRY
RESIDENTIAL
COMMERCIAL
CleaningTWO BROTHERS RESIDENTIAL • COMMERCIAL MASONRY
Brick • Block • Stone CLEANING SPECIAL. 4 BARRY L. WIENS Bonded hours for $120 (1st time only). Licensed &BARRY L. WIENS ERICK WIENS WIENS Professional cleaning, we do Licensed &MATT Bonded it all. 360-527-0555. www. phone: (360) 332-6300 www.twobrothersmasonry.com marthascleaning.com. (360) 332 - 6300 Lic #2BROTB1945DA WINDOW CLEANING Residential and Commercial. CASCAFL912J8 Licensed, Insured, Experienced. Call Wade 360-384-8888. BRICK - BLOCK - STONE
Computer
Computer Repairs & Upgrades
• PCs • Windows • Wireless Setup • Home & Office Networking • New Computer Set-up • Spyware, Malware & Virus Removal
Blaine • Birch Bay • Semiahmoo
360-371-7277 Auto
WHATCOM WHEELS 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.
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.
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A-1 Handyman Plus • Remodel & Home Repairs • All Phases of Carpentry • Kitchen & Bathrooms • Doors & Windows • Decks & Porches • Drywall & Textures • Painting • Rot Repair We get it done! Lic #A1HanHp962MH
Ron 360-739-5097
• Hardwood • Prefinished • Laminate
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COMPLETE REMODELS
Specializing in Renovations & New Construction Kitchens & Baths • Custom & Spec Homes Decks, Garages & Additions
GREEN THUMB garden lover wanted! Disabled master gardener needs help with raised beds, some heavy lifting, cutting grass & weeding. Good wage. Call 360-296-2120.
Delivered to every home in the 98230 zip code.
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Plus Newstands in: Bellingham • Ferndale Custer • Birch Bay Semiahmoo • Blaine
NOTICE TO CREDITORS In the Superior Court of the State of Washington, In and for the County of Whatcom, In re the Estate of Cheryl Knight. Probate No. 20-4-00147-37 Judge: Lee Grochmal 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 Clerk of this Court. 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 (twenty-four (24) months if notice is not published). 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: May 7, 2020. Personal Representative: Jana Pimentel. Attorney for the Estate: KEITH A. BODE, WSBA #7791 314 Fifth Street, P.O. box 688, Lynden, WA 982640688, Tel. (360) 354-5021
Bathrooms & Kitchens
Licensed Contractor DecksGeneral & Porches serving Birch Bay & Blaine Small Jobs Welcome
Serving Whatcom County
Call 360-332-1777
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Electric
HOTLINE ELECTRIC Service/Construction Residential - Commercial Industrial Licensed • Bonded • Insured HOTLIE*914J7
360-393-8246 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.
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IN THE SUPERIOR COURT OF THE STATE OF WASHINGTON IN AND FOR OKANOGAN COUNTY In Re the Estate of MARJORIE J. HENRY, Deceased Probate No. 20-4-00040-24 NOTICE TO CREDITORS 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 representatives 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: May 21, 2020 PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE: Linda S. Lorz ATTORNEY FOR PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE: W. Scott DeTro ADDRESS FOR MAILING OR SERVICE: 700-A Okoma Dr., Omak, WA 98841 Court of Probate Proceedings & Cause No: Okanogan County Superior Court Probate No. 20-4-0004024 CALLAWAY & DETRO PLLC By: W. Scott DeTro; WSBA #19601 Attorney for Estate
Find it in the Classifieds!
IN THE SUPERIOR COURT OF THE STATE OF WASHINGTON IN AND FOR THE COUNTY OF WHATCOM In the matter of the Estate of DAVID GEORGE ALARY GELLATLY, Deceased. No. 204-00224-37 PROBATE NOTICE TO CREDITORS (RCW 11.40.030) The Personal Representative named below has been appointed as Personal Representative of the above estate. Any person having a claim against the deceased DAVID GEORGE ALARY GELLATLY must, before the time the claim would be barred by any otherwise applicable statute of limitations, present the claim in the manner provided by RCW 11.40.070 by serving on or mailing to the Personal Representative or the Personal Representative’s Attorney at the address stated below, a copy of the claim, and filing the original of the claim with the Court in which the probated proceedings have commenced. The claim must be presented within the later of: (1) thirty days after the Personal Representative mailed the notice to the creditor as provided under RCW 11.40.020 (1) (c); or (2) four months after the date of first publication of this notice. If the claim is not presented within this time frame, the claim will be forever barred except as otherwise provided in RCW 11.40.051 or 11.40.060. This bar is effective as to claims against both the probate and nonprobate assets of the decedent. DATE OF FIRST PUBLICATION: May 21, 2020 PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE: YVETTE MARGARET GELLATLY ATTORNEY FOR PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE: Mark W. Stowe, WSBA #16655 ADDRESS FOR MAILING OR SERVICE: Stowe Law PLLC, 276 Boundary Bay Rd, P.O. Box 129, Point Roberts, WA 98281 Phone: (360) 945-0337 Email: stowelawpllc@outlook.com DATED this 14th day of May 2020. STOWE LAW PLLC: Mark W. Stowe, WSBA# 16655, Attorney for Personal Representative
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12
The Northern Light • May 21 - 27, 2020
Real Estate
Bay Properties
8045 BIRCH BAY DRIVE, BLAINE, WA 360-371-7252 BAYPROPERTIESNW.COM
Semiahmoo homeS, inc.
NW LUXURY REAL ESTATE AT A HIGHER LEVEL
4328 Skyline Dr., Blaine $299,900
4737 Tidal Way Unit 102-H, Birch Bay PRIME LOCATION ON GREENBELT!
DON’T MISS OUT ON THE LOW INTEREST RATES!
8876 Semiahmoo Dr., Semiahmoo Ridge $589,000
This 3-BD, 1-BA 1450 SF home feels like it is out in the country yet is only minutes to downtown Blaine, & the US/CDN Border! Nice corner lot with detached garage & RV parking! Fully fenced landscaped yard is great for entertaining! Great opportunity to update this home with your own personal touch!
PRICE REDUCED!
VIEW, VIEW, VIEW! Enjoy spectacular sunsets over Semiahmoo Bay from this almost acre property! Completely remodeled & updated luxury single level 1688 SF 3-BD, 2-BA rambler offers lavish interior w/ new appliances, cabinets, fixtures & drywall plus covered front trex deck, back yard patio! Perched on Semiahmoo Ridge, this is that highly sought after “view” home!
Terry Conway • (360) 410-0503
CeCelia Breivik • (360) 303-8161
4730 Tidal Way 103-L, Birch Bay • $335,900
MOVE IN READY! 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.
OPEN SUN. 2-4 Jeremy Porter • (360) 306-1794
8033 Quinault Road, Birch Bay Village • $999,000
STUNNING VIEWS! 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 & 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. Master + 2 more guest rooms on main w/upper level guest suite, bonus room & patio for sunsets. Bring imagination and create your oasis now!
Ruth Skeete • (360) 358-5075
Heather Taylor • (425) 785-5771
NEW 8217 Chehalis Place
$728,000 MLS# 1589430
Remarkable Custom Built Home with Features Galore! • Over 2800 sq.ft. • Luxurious owners • 4 bedrooms, suite • 2¾ bathrooms • Gourmet kitchen • Magazine quality • Resort style private appointments, colors patio w/fountain, & creativity gardens & hot tub
Mike Kent 360-815-3898 View listing at www.mikekent.com
Mike@MikeKent.com
5390 Night Heron Dr., Semiahmoo $1,575,000
VIEW, VIEW, VIEW!!! Exceptional details on 90 feet
Spectacular golf course & mountain view home!
L
IN IST
w!
5503 Seavue Rd. Birch Bay • $399,000
of waterfront facing Drayton Harbor, White Rock B.C. & the Canadian Mountains. This 4819 SF, 4-BD, 3.5-BA home features kitchen remodel w/ quartz counters, SS appliances & open space to entertain. Main floor living leads to Master suite with his/her closets, FP & private deck. Lower level offers a media room, wet bar, multiple flex rooms & private guest en-suite. Mature landscaping & huge 3 car garage with a workspace and mudroom. Step down to the beach for oysters/clams & kayaking!
QUINTESSENTIAL BIRCH BAY COTTAGE! Your
Birch Bay getaway awaits you! Enjoy partial water views from this clean, light, bright 402 SF, 1-BD, 1-BA cottage that is just a short walk to the beach! Recently remodeled with 3 year old roof and low maintenance yard. Perfect for a getaway, first time home buyer or rental income. Great VRBO potential! Close to all the restaurants and amenities Birch Bay has to offer!
Julie Ward • (760) 522-2564
N! 000DUCTIO , 0 $2 RE
G!
C PRI
5111 Heronswood Dr. • Semiahmoo $799,000 MLS # 1594455 • 4-BD, 4-BA, 2,870 Sq. Ft.
E
5071 Fern Street • Birch Bay $379,500 MLS # 1587721 • 2-BD, 2-BA, 1,584 Sq. Ft.
Welcome home to Heronswood, a unique, gated community in the midst of 62+/- acre woodland, minutes to Birch Bay, Semiahmoo warm saltwater & sandy beaches. A timeless classic craftsman, at the end of a quiet cul-de-sac. All primary living, master, & 1 guest suite on main. Up: family room plus 2 more guest suites (ea w/own bath). 3 car garage w/electric charging station. Call Brian to view!
Panoramic Birch Bay Water, Island & Olympics MT view remodeled cottage with 550 square foot carport, & large deck on large 6098 sq. ft. home site with 82 feet +/of frontage. New composition roof just installed, New paint interior & exterior. New vinyl plank flooring, new wool carpet in bedrooms. New remodeled kitchen /Stainless appliances, windows & fixtures. Terrific home site. Location, Location!
360.815.6638
briansouthwick@gmail.com
THE CLASSIFIEDS ARE ONLINE AT: thenorthernlight.com/classifieds
www.NimbusRealEstate.com
8105 Birch Bay Square St. - Blaine, WA 98230
360-920-0563
GerryAllen@windermere.com
Minutes to Birch Bay beaches! $220,000 4812 Fir Tree Lane 2-BD, 1-BA, Approx.Sq. Ft: 480 Well looked after Birch Bay Cottage! Hard to find, sought after
location, minutes to the beach and restaurants and the world famous C Shop. This cottage as been in the family for 50 plus years and has been well looked after. Some newer upgrades, foundation, roof and plumbing under the house has recently been redone. Don’t miss this opportunity to buy a family retreat and or a great holiday rental. MLS# 1597450
Call Gerry to view this property today! 360-920-0563
I’m always available to show you by private appointment all Residential, Commercial, Vacant Land & New Construction Properties!
What is your house worth...
Call Hugh :
360.371.5800 Your Local Expert For All Real Estate, Residential Or Commercial Services!
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
925 Ludwick Ave., Blaine
Near Truck Route & Shopping Mall
LEASE SPACES FOR:
MLS #1559972
Lisa Sprague
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.
Downtown Blaine (Across from Hill’s Chevron)
NELSON BUILDING
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!
360-961-0838
225 G Street, Suite 102
Rentals - Commercial
Beautiful ocean and mountain view home.
Owner/Agent
360-594-8600
PENDED IN 1 DAY!
7415 Sunset Drive, Birch Bay $189,000
see more pictures at www.briansouthwick.com
rvie e t a W
Call Phill Esau Today!
Nimbus Property Management
Carl W. R. Dufton • (360) 815-6637
NEW LISTING!
WATERFRONT IN BBV! 3 BD, 2.5 BA TOWNHOME!
Highly sought after Tide’s units in prime location! Craftsman style townPENDING! homes nestled on a tree lined green space acreage. Beautiful & private units are 1,140 +/- SF, 2-BD (Master Suite on the Main Floor!) 1.75-BA, superbly finished with quartz counters, rock gas fireplace, SS appliances including W/D and Refrigerator, on-demand HW, quality fixtures, designer flooring & covered deck! Furniture negotiable! Clubhouse, pool, & spa! High demand for these units - don’t miss out!
MOTIVATED SELLER!
PROPERTY MANAGEMENT • Vacation Properties WE DO • Residential Properties ! IT ALL • Commercial Properties
FOR LEASE
Retail/Office Space
With Waterfront Views of Blaine Marina 800 - 1600 s.f. Prime ground floor office and retail space in The Northern Light Cannery-style building at Blaine Harbor.
For leasing info, contact
Pat Grubb 360/332-1777
Warehousing & Distribution Manufacturing or Retail Yard Storage for Vehicles Please Call Don Nelson For Availability & Rates
360-332-2743
Email nelsbldg@msn.com
Advertise in The Northern Light!
It works!
GET STARTED. Call one of our Marketing Specialists today!
www.TheNorthernLight.com sales@pointrobertspress.com
360-332-1777
for REAL news
READ LOCAL IN PRINT & ONLINE
May 21 - 27, 2020 • thenorthernlight.com
13
Birch Bay Library site to become drive-in WiFi hotspot In response to the impact of Covid-19, the Washington State Department of Commerce partnered with organizations throughout the state to open new drive-in wireless internet sites to make it easier for people to access free broadband internet. Whatcom County Library System (WCLS) and the department of commerce are working toward providing free internet at the future Birch Bay Vogt Community Library, at 7968 Birch Bay Drive. WCLS director Christine Perkins said the library system is currently waiting to get WiFi equipment from the department of commerce. “Unfortunately, I do not have further details from the state about when it may arrive,” she
said in an email. The department of commerce estimates that more than 300 new drive-in WiFi hotspots are coming online statewide. Commerce’s map of WiFi hotspots includes one at the Blaine Library, as well as the Lynden, Ferndale and Point Roberts libraries. Launching primarily as parking lot hotspots, the free community WiFi hotspots are accessible regardless of how people get to the locations. Everyone using the sites must practice social distancing and hygiene precautions, including staying in your vehicle or at least six feet from other users and wearing a mask if necessary. Find all the drive-in WiFi hotspots in the state at bit.ly/2zYuCNS
In response to Covid-19, many public libraries are becoming drive-in WiFi hotspots. The future Birch Bay library will have public internet access once the WCLS receives equipment from the state department of commerce.
file photo
$3 million cocaine bust at the border By Grace McCarthy U.S. border agents arrested a 41-year-old man at the Pacific Highway Truck Crossing on May 9 as he headed to Canada with $3 million in cocaine. The arrest occurred after an anonymous tip was given to law enforcement two days before warning of a commercial vehicle bound for Canada with narcotics. Ajitpal Singh Sanghera was booked into the Whatcom County Jail on May 10 for the possession of a controlled substance with intent to deliver it, according to jail booking data. Sanghera, held on $100,000 bail, was released by the county on Friday, May 15 when the federal prosecu-
tor took the case, said Whatcom County prosecutor Eric Richey. Customs and Border Protection officers (CBP), who received the names of the vehicle’s company and driver, sent the truck and another truck from the same company to secondary inspection, according to records from the Whatcom County Superior Court. Sanghera was driving the second vehicle, a blue 2000 Freightliner with B.C. plates towing a trailer with Oklahoma plates. Five handbags containing 60 kilograms of cocaine were found when CBP inspected the trailer, records state, leading to the arrest at 8:56 p.m. During the arrest, Sanghera said he obtained the trailer in Seattle that day.
BUSINESS & PROFESSIONAL
Sanghera was in contact with the other vehicle’s driver over 10 times on the day of the arrest and had tampered with the seal on the back of the trailer which suggested someone entered the trailer, according to court documents. The defendant crossed into the U.S. over 40 times this year, according to the affidavit, which suggested Sanghera could be connected with an international drug trafficking organization. Dona Bracke, Whatcom County deputy prosecuting attorney, said the U.S. Attorney’s Office has jurisdiction over cases involving border smuggling. The case was dismissed from Whatcom County when the U.S. Attorney’s Office in Seattle accepted the case.
DIRECTORY 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
Protecting you from the unexpected.
James McGregor A.Sc. T (B.C.) CHI
Beaches closed to recreational shellfishing The Washington State Department of Health closed beaches around Birch Bay for recreational shellfish harvest on May 14 due to unsafe levels of paralytic shellfish poisoning (PSP) biotoxin. That’s an expansion of a previous closure – on May 6, the department of health closed beaches around Drayton Harbor to recreational shellfishing for the same reason. Currently, all beaches from Point Whitehorn north to the Canadian Border, including Point Roberts, are closed for recreational shellfish harvest. Shellfish sold in restaurants and retail markets have been
tested before distribution and are safe to eat. The naturally occurring biotoxin is found in clams, mussels, oysters and other molluscan shellfish. PSP biotoxin can cause severe illness and death. Symptoms include numbness and tingling of lips and tongue, which may begin within minutes of eating toxic shellfish or may take an hour or two to develop. Symptoms may progress to tingling fingers and toes and then loss of control of arms and legs, followed by difficulty in breathing. Some people feel nauseous or experience a
sense of floating. Algae that contain marine biotoxins cannot be seen and must be detected by laboratory testing. During a biotoxin event, mussels and varnish clams usually contain the highest toxin concentration. Cooking or freezing does not destroy PSP and other naturally occurring biotoxins. Crabmeat is not affected, but “crab butter” and crab entrails can harbor biotoxins and should always be discarded, according to the health department. Current biotoxin closures are updated at doh.wa.gov/ehp/sf/ biotoxin.htm
DRAYTON HARBOR OYSTERS 360-392-0955
TheVaultWine.com
TheVaultWine
Local Craft Beers & Wine
360-656-5958 DraytonHarborOysters.com 685 Peace Portal Dr. • Downtown Blaine
jim@inspectyourhomes.com • www.inspectyourhomes.com
Proud supporters of the Blaine Community! Formerly 1st Propane of Whatcom County 2011 Large Business of the Year
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
Spring Special!
Dinner on Us and90 a Can of Glass Cleaner Celebrating years!
with every windshield purchased and installed
Windshield Replacement
BELLINGHAMFree Pick up & Delivery Bellingham 1512 N. State St. • 360-734-3840
Rock Chip Repairs
LYNDEN
Free Loaner Cars
Lynden 407 19th
Vernon St. •Mt.360-354-3232
(360) 734-3840 (360) 354-3232 (360) 424-9759 www.LouisAutoGlass.com 1512 N. State St.
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
Farm Fresh Oysters
277 G Street • Downtown Blaine
360-920-8967
Louis’
LOCAL DINING GUIDE Served Raw, Grilled, Fried, Stewed & other delicious Seafood Specialities
Licensed Home Inspector #2504
www.louisautoglass.com
Must present ad for special. Not valid with any other offers. Expires June 30, 2014.
Great Authentic Mexican Food 758 Peace Portal • Blaine 360-332-4045
13 week commitment. Call 332-1777 to reserve.
14
The Northern Light • May 21 - 27, 2020
Games and Puzzles
Sheriff’s Reports May 12, 5:38 p.m.: Domestic verbal cold call on California Trail.
May 13, 8:34 p.m.: Rape cold call on Birch Bay-Lynden Road, Custer.
May 12, 9:49 p.m.: Suspicious circumstances on Peace Park Drive.
May 14, 7 a.m.: Theft cold call on Sunrise Road.
May 12, 9:53 p.m.: Extra patrol on Birch Bay-Lynden Road, Custer. May 13, 12:21 a.m.: Extra patrol cold call on Beachcomber Drive. May 13, 1:33 a.m.: Security check on Grandview Road. May 13, 3:11 a.m.: Motor vehicle accident non-blocking/ non-injury on Blaine and Alderson roads. May 13, 10:45 a.m.: Forgery cold call on Weidkamp Road, Custer. May 13, 1:07 p.m.: Forgery cold call on Dearborn Avenue. May 13, 1:40 p.m.: Theft on Birch Bay Square Street. May 13, 2:44 p.m.: Suspicious circumstances on Custer School and Haynie roads, Custer. May 13, 3:24 p.m.: Domestic verbal on California Trail. May 13, 2:28 p.m.: Theft on Valley View Road, Custer. May 13, 4:23 p.m.: Civil problem cold call on Valley View Road, Custer. May 13, 4:34 p.m.: Suspicious circumstances on Birch Terrace Drive, Custer. May 13, 6 p.m.: WhatComm record on Blaine and Loomis Trail roads. May 13, 6:24 p.m.: Music on Salish Lane. May 13, 6:49 p.m.: Vehicle recovery on Birch Bay Drive. May 13, 8:07 p.m.: Assist citizen on Birch Bay-Lynden Road.
Crossword Answers at thenorthernlight.com
ACROSS
41. Former OSS
1.Protects from weather
42. A way to emit sound
18. Baseball box score stat
4. Superhigh frequency
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19. Make a mistake
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27. Worked the soil 29. Plant cultivated in Peru
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32. Wild dog
1. Occur
34. Pound
2. Show up
35. Manning and Lilly are two
12. United Arab Emirates city 13. Surinam toad 14. Sign language
20. It must be scratched 21. Where people live 25. Swiss river 26. Buddy
3. Capital of Taiwan 4. Former French coin
28. Alias 31. Side-blotched lizards genus 33. Immoral act
5. Some are bad
36. Put on the shelf for now
29. Shrek is one
6. Monetary unit
37. Baltimore ballplayer
30. Egyptian unit of weight
8. Package (abbr.)
38. Cuddle
31. Fiddler crabs
9. Indian religious person
39. Dashes
32. Carroll O’Connor’s TV wife
11. Crew
40. Related on the mother’s side
27. One of two equal parts of a divisible whole
39. No longer having life
14. Antidiuretic hormone 15. Makeshift
44. Witch 47. Kilogram force (abbr.)
May 14, 9:29 a.m.: Refer to other agency on Sawgrass Way. May 14, 10:47 a.m.: Domestic physical on Anderson Road. May 14, 12:28 p.m.: Forgery cold call on Whitewood Drive. May 14, 12:34 p.m.: Follow up on Anderson Road. May 14, 1:11 p.m.: Suspicious circumstances on Burk Road, Custer. May 14, 1:41 p.m.: Forgery cold call on Whitehorn Way. May 14, 1:43 p.m.: Not available on H Street Road. May 14, 2:11 p.m.: Traffic hazard on Grandview and Kickerville roads. May 14, 2:19 p.m.: Drugs cold call on Birch Bay Drive. May 14, 2:33 p.m.: Not available on Harborview Road. May 14, 3:32 p.m.: Suspicious circumstances cold call on Jess Road, Custer. May 14, 6:23 p.m.: Neighborhood dispute cold call on Hayley Lane. May 14, 6:34 p.m.: Civil problem cold call on Bay Road. May 14, 7:09 p.m.: Attempted suicide on Birch Terrance Place, Custer. May 14, 7:39 p.m.: Custodial interference cold call on H Street Road. May 14, 9:43 p.m.: Serve papers on Birch Bay Drive. May 14, 9:14 p.m.: Forgery cold call on Youngs Road, Custer.
Reports provided by WCSO
Weather
Police Reports May 9, 8:18 p.m.: Officers were dispatched to a hit and run the 5600 block of Bayvue Road. Dispatch advised a female driving a white Chevrolet pickup drove through a fence and left the scene. Officers checked the area and located the vehicle. Driver was arrested for hit and run and driving under the influence. May 10, 3:50 p.m.: Officers responded to the 400 block range of Allen Street for a report of a suspicious circumstance. A man told officers he hasn’t seen his elderly neighbor in approximately three weeks and the grass was getting long. Officers arrived and were unable to make contact with the individual who resides there. Officers are continuing to investigate the matter. May 10, 5:30 p.m.: Blaine Police Department officers responded to a harassment complaint reported in the 1600 block of Runge Avenue. The complainant reported an individual had walked into their residence without permission, yelling at children. Officers located the individual who stated he was upset about the behavior of the children. The individual was told to seek out an adult to address the behavior of the children. May 10, 10:41 p.m.: Blaine Police Department officers responded to the Peace Arch port of entry for found contraband. Officers were advised Customs and Border Protection officers located psilocybin mushrooms during a secondary inspection. Officers spoke with the individual who admitted they were his, the individual was cited for a municipal code violation. May 11, 6:02 p.m.: Officers observed a vehicle registered to an individual with felony probable cause for her arrest. Officers attempted to catch up to the vehicle and it took off at high speeds. Officers caught up to the vehicle on West Road and detained the driver who jumped out of the vehicle as it came to a stop. Officers determined the driver was not the registered owner but had a suspended license and an open container near the driver’s seat. Officers arrested and released the individual with a criminal citation. May 12, 11:18 a.m.: Officers responded to the 400 block range of Peace Portal Drive for a report of a burglary that happened sometime overnight. Officers arrived and determined someone stole over two hundred pieces of mail from a business. Officers collected potential evidence to be sent to the crime lab and are continuing to investigate. May 12, 5:56 p.m.: Officers on routine patrol observed a vehicle with expired registration over two years old and a listed registered owner showing a suspended license status in Washington state. Officers stopped the vehicle and identified the driver and passenger to both have felony probable cause for their arrest out of Bellingham. During the investigation, one of the subjects obstructed officers by lying about his name twice. Officers gained consent to search the vehicle and found suspected illegal drugs that tested presumptive positive when tested. Officers arrested the two individuals and booked them into the Whatcom County Jail. May 12, 4:30 a.m.: The police responded to a vandalism at the 1300 block of H Street. The subject cut the wires to a meter box outside of a business. The officers contacted the city of Blaine Public Works to fix the wires in the meter box. At this time there is no suspect. May 14, 5:21 p.m.: Officers were dispatched to a hold up alarm at WECU. Officers arrived and determined there was an error in the security system. May 14, 8:45 p.m.: A person reported several juveniles appeared to be getting ready to fight. The police arrived and contacted several individuals who were yelling at each other in front of a residence. The police spoke with all the persons involved and determined no crime was committed and no one wished to pursue a complaint. Both parties agreed to stop yelling at each other and go their own separate ways.
Reports provided by Blaine Police Department
Precipitation: During the period of May 11–17, 1.2 inches of precipitation was recorded. The 2020 yearto-date precipitation is 19.8 inches. Temperature: High for the past week was 83°F on May 11 with a low of 48°F on May 15. Average high was 70°F and average low was 51°F. Courtesy Birch Bay Water & Sewer Dist.
Tides May 22-28 at Blaine. Not for navigation.
49° 0’ 0”N - 122° 46’ 0”W
DATE TIME HEIGHT TIME HEIGHT Fr 22
4:53 am
7:36 pm
9.0
Sa 23 12:39 am
6.2
8.4
12:10 pm
-0.6
5:17 am
8.3
12:42 pm
-1.0
8:20 pm
9.3
Su 24 1:27 am
6.6
5:41 am
8.2
1:16 pm
-1.3
9:04 pm
9.6
Mo 25 2:15 am
6.9
6:03 am
8.0
1:50 pm
-1.4
9:50 pm
9.7
Tu 26
3:09 am
7.1
6:29 am
7.7
2:30 pm
-1.4
10:36 pm
9.7
We 27 4:13 am
7.0
6:59 am
7.4
3:12 pm
-1.1
11:22 pm
9.8
Th 28 5:25 am
6.7
7:43 am
6.9
4:00 pm
-0.6
The historic Plover ferry departing from Blaine Harbor in 2017. The Northern Light File photo
May 21 - 27, 2020 • thenorthernlight.com
15
Memorial Day 2020 American Legion, Department
of
Washington This Memorial Day will remain unique above all others. Most noticeable is the fact that the formal observances of this somber day to honor the memory of the veterans who died defending our very way of life have, for the most part, been canceled due to the Covid-19 virus. This virus has
significantly changed our daily lives today and will continue to do so for the foreseeable future. Despite that, it has not endangered the American way of life that our fallen veterans protected. While we may not be able to join throngs of people in parades or observances at cemeteries, I ask you to ponder over the current situation. The veterans who died in the service to this nation faced many unseen threats. They never knew where the next bullet or artillery shell would land. They also, in many cases, never knew if the person approaching
them on the street was a friend or foe. They lived with the threat that at any moment, their lives could be lost, and they would never be able to enjoy the fruits of their sacrifices. As we endure this current health threat, I ask you to pay homage to those veterans who both suffered and succumbed to even greater threats on your behalf. Another correlation worth keeping in mind is that preparedness, discipline, and the determination to endure on the part of our nation and individual service members couldn’t save every life,
although it saved many. The generations of young men and women who returned home from our conflicts abroad are testaments to that. Today, we face a conflict that demands our full attention and changes in our daily lives. The lives that we enjoy today exist solely because others previously made sacrifices on our behalf. On Memorial Day, we should respectfully honor those we’ve lost and ensure that their struggles and lessons have not fallen on deaf ears. We are no longer in the postWorld War II years when every
family had members who had served and sacrificed. The majority of Americans have never donned a military uniform to serve their country. With today’s health emergency, they are now in a better position to respect the sacrifices of those who died wearing one. This day is traditionally dedicated to those in the military services who died serving our nation. This year I ask we extend that honor to all those from the health and service professions who have succumbed to Covid-19 while in their service to us.
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16
The Northern Light • May 21 - 27, 2020
Bellingham is home to one of the safest hospitals in America. PeaceHealth St. Joseph Medical Center has earned an “A” from the Leapfrog Hospital Safety Grade. Thanks to the caregivers and providers who made this possible through their meaningful contributions to the delivery of safe, compassionate care.
The Leapfrog Hospital Safety Grade is an elite designation from The Leapfrog Group, a national, independent watchdog that sets the highest standards for patient safety in the United States.
Learn more about PeaceHealth’s commitment to safety at peacehealth.org/patient-safety-and-quality