The Northern Light: July 23-30, 2020 by Point Roberts Press

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Community Newspaper of Blaine and Birch Bay

July 23 - 29, 2020

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IN THIS

ISSUE

New activities added at Miniature World, page 2

Blaine police chief bans neck restraints, page 6

Port releases map to local paddling access, page 8

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

Ballots mailed Businesses report compliance with mask mandate for the August 4 primary election Update voter registration info online by July 27 By Oliver Lazenby

(See Election, page 3)

EXPERIENCE THE

! N FU

s A customer comes out of The Market at Birch Bay wearing a mask. As of July 7, businesses are required to enforce mask use. Photo by Grace McCarthy

Businesses say mask order needs little enforcement B y G r a c e M c C a rt h y Many Blaine-area businesses say they’ve seen compliance with customers wearing face coverings in stores since governor Jay Inslee issued a series of statewide mandates in late June and early July. A July 7 mask mandate required businesses to enforce the use of face coverings in their stores, which followed a June 26 mandate requiring people who are in public and cannot distance more than six feet to wear face coverings in public. On June 8, Inslee required that all employees wear face coverings unless working alone and that employers provide facial coverings to workers. Ployping Sripakdee, a part-time employee at Chada Thai in downtown Blaine, says the restaurant is only open for to-go orders in a part-outdoor transaction window the business set up to protect employees and customers. Sripakdee said she only sees a few cus-

tomers per day who aren’t wearing masks – about 10 percent – and most of them are younger. Sripakdee said she keeps her distance from customers and encourages them to pay by phone so she can put the order by the window and then walk away. Employees, managers and business owners from six other stores and restaurants say they’ve seen about a 98 percent compliance rate from customers. One of these people is Drew Sooter, manager at The Market at Birch Bay, who said he’s seen a decrease in customers who aren’t wearing masks since the first couple of weeks of the first mask mandate on June 26. At first, The Market at Birch Bay had an employee in the front handing out 30 masks per day but Sooter said those numbers have dwindled to 2-3 per day. An employee is no longer needed to hand out masks and instead, cashiers watch for mask-less shoppers from their checkout lanes.

The number of customers refusing to comply with the mandate, Sooter said, decreased from about five people per day to two per week. “I think the most challenging thing, regardless of political stance, is all we’re try(See Masks, page 7)

INSIDE

Ballots for the August 4 primary election were mailed July 15, and voters should also have received a voters’ pamphlet by now, according to the Whatcom County Auditor’s Office. Voters who haven’t yet received a ballot should contact the auditor’s office, said Whatcom County auditor Diana Bradrick. All statewide offices are on the primary ballot, including such local races as U.S. Congress District 1 representative, 42nd Legislative District and Whatcom County Superior Court Judge positions. The governor’s race has 36 candidates. The election is a top-two primary: The two candidates with the most votes advance to the general election, regardless of party. Ballots must be postmarked or placed in election ballot drop boxes by 8 p.m. on Election Day, August 4. Drop boxes are located at the Blaine Library, at North Whatcom Fire and Rescue at 4581 Birch Bay-Lynden Road, and at Custer Elementary School. All 18 Whatcom County drop box locations are printed on the insert enclosed with the ballot, as well as in the voters’ pamphlet. Postage is not required to mail in a ballot. Those mailing in a ballot should do so up to a week before Election Day, Bradrick said. “I think the public doesn’t understand that just because they get their ballot to the post office on Election Day, that doesn’t mean it will be postmarked in time,” she said. “If you’re going to wait until Election Day, you really should use a drop box. Every election we have hundreds of ballots that we can’t count because they’re not postmarked in time and we hate that.” The auditor’s office encourages residents to complete voter registrations and address updates online or by mail before Monday, July 27. After that, voters can still register until Election Day but must do it at the auditor’s office, at 311 Grand Avenue, Suite 103, in Bellingham. Masks and physical distancing are required at the office. Citizens with a Washington state issued

Letters . . . . . . . . . 4 Classifieds . . . . . 11 Crosswords . . . . . 14 Police . . . . . . . . . 14 Tides . . . . . . . . . . 14

TheNorthernLight.com

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The Northern Light • July 23 - 29, 2020

DRAYTON HARBOR OYSTERS

Beer, line dancing and other changes at Miniature World Family Fun Center

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685 Peace Portal Dr. • Downtown Blaine s Families ride go-carts at Miniature World Family Fun Center at 4190 Birch Bay-Lynden Road on July 15. The family fun center will be changing its name to Station 49, with the addition of a bar serving beer and other malt beverages. The family bar area, located behind the mini golf course, will also host line dancing lessons on Fridays at 6:30 p.m.

BE AN AMERICAN HERO

WEAR A MASK

A young golfer at Miniature T World on July 15. Photos by Kyra Planetz

JIM WHITTAKER MOUNT EVEREST MAY 1, 1963 FIRST AMERICAN TO REACH THE SUMMIT WEAR A MASK INITIATIVE FROM THE REALITIES OF ADVANCED MEDICAL INTERVENTIONS TEAM

Whole Pilates of Birch Bay

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SUMMER AT SEMIAHMOO Summer Is In Full Packers Kitchen + Bar The Spa at Semiahmoo Beach Activities Center Indoor/Outdoor Pool Now open for dine-in and Now open for spa and salon Now open for kayak, paddle Now open for hotel guests and Swing at Semiahmoo

The pool, spa, and restaurants are now open, just in time for summer

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board, and bike rentals

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All activities are by reservation only. Please call 360.318.2000 to make a reservation.

July 23 - 29, 2020 • thenorthernlight.com

Unemployment decreased in Whatcom County in June

Election ... From page 1

2020

2018 2017 2019 The unemployment rate in Whatcom County went from 15.6 percent in May to 10.5 percent in June. Image courtesy of Washington State Employment Security Department

B y G r a c e M c C a rt h y Washington’s seasonally adjusted unemployment rate decreased from 15.1 to 9.8 percent in June, according to preliminary data from the Washington State Employment Security Department (WSESD). This comes as Washington gained an estimated 71,000 jobs in June, according to the employment data. Of the 71,000 jobs added to the state, service providing was the lead category with 62,300 jobs, followed by trade, transportation and utilities at 22,800 jobs and retail trade with 19,400 jobs, according to WSESD data that became available July 17. “We had a lot of people return to the labor market as a whole,” said Anneliese Vance-Sherman, a regional labor economist with WSESD. Washington still has a high unemployment rate but it is decreasing quickly, Vance-Sherman said. Governor Jay Inslee’s Safe Start phased reopening plans are reflected in the unemployment decrease, along with a greater clarity on what jobs are considered essential and employers becoming more innovative to comply with Covid-19 mandates while continuing to serve customers, she said. “We’re figuring out this environment,” Vance-Sherman said. “We had that first impact. We’re

figuring how to navigate what this looks like.” In February, the state unemployment rate was 3.8 percent – the lowest since at least 1976. It increased to 5.1 percent in March before climbing to 16.3 percent in April. In Whatcom County, the unemployment rate was slightly higher in February at 5 percent, and then it decreased to 4.7 percent in March before jumping to 17.7 percent in April. The unemployment rate then decreased from 15.6 percent in May to 10.5 percent in June, according to WSESD data. Whatcom County’s higher unemployment is caused from tourism and manufacturing being some of the industries hit the hardest from Covid-19 unemployment, Vance-Sherman said. King and Snohomish counties, two of the most populated counties, also sway state statistics but when removed, Whatcom County’s unemployment rate aligns with average state unemployment rates, she said. Vance-Sherman said the state economy would be in a more difficult spot if this occurred in the years after the 2008 recession. Washington state will see job recovery in three phases, Vance-Sherman said. Some jobs will find short term adjustments during Covid-19, some jobs will take time to be viable and other

jobs won’t come back for a variety of reasons, she said. “We’re changing some of our habits. We’re changing some of our decisions because of our fear of the pandemic. It is hard to say right now in this chaotic moment what those changes will be,” she said. Vance-Sherman said she expects to see an acceleration of technology replacing jobs, a transition she’s seen gradually over the past few decades. For example, an increase

in online food ordering cuts the need for restaurant staff. Vance-Sherman said she expects future unemployment rates to hinge on Covid-19 numbers, policy and how households navigate the uncertainty of the pandemic. “I expect to see some businesses won’t be able to survive this in the near and middle term but some will emerge,” she said. “I expect it to be shaky moving forward.”

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ID can complete their voter registration and address updates online at votewa.gov. Those without a state issued ID can go to sos. wa.gov/elections/print-voter-registration-forms.aspx and print a registration form to be mailed in. Bradrick cautioned that ballots could take longer to process than usual, as there are fewer workers. That’s partly because of the county’s hiring freeze, and partly because many of the temporary workers who have counted ballots in the past are over 65 and some don’t want to do the work this time, she said. In a typical election, nearly all the ballots have been counted by Thursday, following a Tuesday election. The auditor’s office could process ballots faster if more of them came in early, Bradrick said. Typically, 50 percent of ballots are turned in in the final three days, she said. The voters’ pamphlet and other information about the current election are available online at co.whatcom.wa.us/1732/current-election. To get a replacement ballot, go to votewa.gov.

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The Northern Light • July 23 - 29, 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.

Bags and bags of clothes collected for Blaine schools

Publisher & Managing Editor Patrick Grubb publisher@pointrobertspress.com Co-publisher & Advertising Director Louise Mugar lmugar@pointrobertspress.com Editor Oliver Lazenby oliver@pointrobertspress.com Reporter & Copy Editor Grace McCarthy grace@pointrobertspress.com Reporting Interns Kyra Planetz, Ian Haupt prpintern@pointrobertspress.com Creative Services Ruth Lauman, Doug De Visser, production@pointrobertspress.com Office Manager Jeanie Luna info@pointrobertspress.com

s People donated 40 to 50 regular sized garbage bags worth of clothing to Communities in Schools (CIS) Whatcom-Skagit’s July 14-16 clothing drive in the Blaine Elementary School parking lot, the drive’s organizers said. CIS of Whatcom-Skagit, a nonprofit that focuses on keeping children in school, plans to take the clothing to the Blaine school district’s Family Services Center after washing and folding it. CIS of Whatcom-Skagit has held past drives for the Family Services Center, including a hygiene supply drive in April. Chelsea Jimenez, the nonprofit’s director of development and communications, said that for now, the CIS of Whatcom-Skagit is focused on fundraising for the organization, which also provides one-on-one academic help, food, physical and mental health care, mentoring, and college and career preparation help and other programs.

Photo by courtesy CIS Whatcom-Skagit

New York Times features Blaine in border story By Oliver Lazenby The New York Times featured Blaine in a July 18 story about the border closure’s effects on the town, titled “This Border Town Was on the Rise. Then the Pandemic Hit.” The article calls the border closures’ economic impact on Blaine “crippling,”

The Northern Light 225 Marine Drive, Suite 200, Blaine, WA 98230 Tel: 360/332-1777 Vol XXVI, No 6 Circulation: 10,500 copies

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Next issue: July 30 Ads due: July 24

The article quotes local immigration attorney Len Saunders, Blaine Chamber of Commerce president Michael Ebert, Mark and Steve Seymour of Drayton Harbor Oyster Company and Brant Baron of Mail Boxes International. Mike Hill, owner of the Chevron on Portal Drive, Skye Hill Station and several other Blaine properties, is also featured in the article.

Letters

Advertising Sales Molly Ernst sales@pointrobertspress.com General Editorial Inquiries editor@pointrobertspress.com

and focuses on the lack of Canadians crossing the border to buy gas and pick up packages. When the U.S./Canada border closed on March 21, southbound traffic into Blaine all but stopped. In June, 12,600 people entered the U.S. from British Columbia, down from 479,000 in June 2019, the article notes.

The Editor: A recent letter to The Northern Light inaccurately reported that sheriff’s office expenditures represent 65-70 percent of the Whatcom County Council’s total budget and called for a reallocation of funds to other needs. Total sheriff’s operations, including jail and emergency management, is 16.44 percent of the total county budget. The sheriff’s office also receives limited state and federal funding to support programs such as sex offender registration and tracking, and boating, international border, forest area and DUI patrols. Total law and justice expenditures (criminal and civil courts, probation, prosecution, public defense and similar programs, sheriff’s office) represent 57 percent of the county’s general fund budget. The current budget authorizes 89 deputy sheriffs (5 positions are vacant and “frozen”) that provide direct law enforcement services to a community of 94,986 and additional services to 225,743. The commissioning rate of deputies to citizens is far below the rate of any city and services are provided over 2,150 square miles that has many geographical challenges. County-

wide responsibilities include enforcing civil court orders, search and rescue operations, court security and the operation of a gang and drug task force. Mental health and crisis negotiation deputies assist those in behavioral crisis and, where possible, divert them to treatment rather than jail. Neighborhood and resident deputies focus on densely-populated unincorporated areas. Last year, deputies responded to 44,408 incidents. Deputies often work alone in remote areas where backup can be over an hour away. The sheriff’s office has a responsibility to provide appropriate medical and behavioral health services to those ordered incarcerated by the courts. The cost of providing these services escalates every year. We were instructed to prepare a budget that provides very significant reductions due to the county’s non-receipt of anticipated tax revenues resulting from Covid-19. This will have very significant impacts on service delivery. We will likely need to re-evaluate or reconfigure some of our most popular programs. Our deputies will remain loyal to their duty to the public service and commitment to the preserva-

tion of life and ensuring community safety. We will continue to ensure the prudent use of taxpayer funds budgeted to our office. Bill Elfo, Sheriff Bellingham The Editor: Thank you for covering the removal of the #BLM signs from H Street plaza. The Northern Light’s July 16 article included excerpts of a letter we sent to city manager Michael Jones that summarized an earlier phone conversation that we had with him. Although not informed that this topic, or our letter, would be on the city council meeting agenda, we learned from the July 16 article that this topic was indeed discussed in council, and that our letter was included in the discussion. The article implies that we are advocating for a “public expression zone.” In reality, after researching the issue, we, too, concluded that creating such a space would be challenging. This conclusion is reflected clearly in our letter to Mr. Jones. We respectfully wish to clarify our position on (See Letters, next page)

July 23 - 29, 2020 • thenorthernlight.com

Letters ... From previous page

this topic. Our letter to Mr. Jones concluded with three suggestions: Explain to the public what happened to the H Street plaza signs, recreate the display in an acceptable, designated location, and solicit input from relevant community stakeholders in ongoing decision making. The last suggestion is most important on a go-forward basis. We learned through decades of experience in medicine and business that when important issues are being discussed, a key question to ask up front is, “Who is not at the table right now whose input could be of value?” Actively soliciting input in advance from affected individuals and key stakeholders – and truly listening to, and considering, their input – can only help Blaine become a more inclusive and respectful community. William Marsh and Elaine Alpert Blaine The Editor: A comment on slavery: The word comes from the salves of Eastern Europe. Slavery continues to exist in many parts of the world today. In more ancient times, wherever wars enslaved, capturers were taken and made slaves. Indians had slaves. African tribes defeated their rivals, kept slaves themselves, and sold others to Europeans or Muslim traders. Greeks and Romans had slaves. I can’t think of a part of the world that has not had slavery,

and there should be no shame in one’s ancestors having been enslaved because most of us probably have slave ancestors somewhere, if we go back far enough. Your article on the BLM discussions was of interest. It should be identified as a Marxist organization, however, like Antifa and other groups, with more information, people can make their own decisions about agreement or disagreement. These groups do have websites. BLM seems to be mainly about police killings, which are increasingly rare, plus one should remember that policemen are of all races and creeds like the rest of us. I am more concerned with the level of killings caused by rival gangs and drug lords in the large blue state cities, which have been under democratic local governments for many decades. Apparently, these city governments have done a terrible job in public school education, allowing school choice, providing employment and business opportunities and in keeping people safe. Following the money is probably a place to start looking for the reason. I thought our governor’s recent school statement sounded quite racist. Does the decision to allow minority students to start first imply that they are less than other students? I would imagine that students of all ethnic backgrounds have a similar span of learning abilities around disabilities. Lucy Chambers Blaine Please send letters to letters@thenorthernlight.com no later than noon on Monday.

Live entertainment banned, gathering size reduced in new state Covid-19 restrictions B y G r a c e M c C a rt h y Modifications that will increase the stringency of Washington state’s Safe Start plan went into effect July 20, as Covid-19 cases continue to rise in the state. Indoor and outdoor live entertainment is now banned throughout the state, governor Jay Inslee announced in a July 16 news conference. This includes drivein concerts, comedy clubs and music in restaurants, but excludes weddings, funerals and spiritual services. Inslee also reduced the size of social gatherings allowed in phase 3. Now, counties in phase 3 must limit social gatherings to no more than 10 people. Previously, gatherings of up to 50 were allowed in phase 3. Counties on phase 2 and modified phase 1 plans, which is about 80 percent of the state, may continue to have social gatherings with up to five people. Face masks and physical distancing are still required for social gatherings, Inslee said. During the conference, Inslee said he could possibly issue another stay-at-home order and alluded that it could happen soon if the situation doesn’t improve. State secretary of health John Weisman announced July 20 that

he would return all applications from counties applying to advanced phases. The state paused applications on July 2 and won’t review new applications until at least July 28, according to the Washington state Covid-19 response website. The information from the applications will be outdated since at least four weeks will have passed since the applications were submitted for review, the release states. As of July 20, Whatcom County had 802 confirmed cases of Covid-19 and 37 deaths, according to the Washington State Department of Health. Washington has experienced 48,575 cases total and 1,465 deaths as of July 20, according to the department of health. From January to March, young people represented 22 percent of Covid-19 cases but represented 45 percent of cases from May to June, Inslee said. As of July 20, the largest age group in Whatcom County with confirmed Covid-19 cases was 20-39-years old, making up 39 percent of all cases.

Blaine United Church of Christ

State Rep. Sharon Shewmake fights for your values in Olympia!

"Where friendly people gather and become family"

 Economic recovery for Whatcom  Affordable healthcare  Access to childcare for rural families  Funding parks, trails, and the Bell Road overpass She’s an economist and a mom who knows how to get things done, listens to you, and puts the people of Whatcom County first.

Sunday Services 10:30 am esus

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. Please check the agenda prior to each meeting as the call in number or location may change.

Thursday, July 23 *CANCELLED* 6:00pm – Planning Commission Meeting

Monday, July 27 6:00pm – Regular City Council Meeting

Monday, August 10 6:00pm – Regular City Council Meeting

Tuesday, August 11 8:00am – Blaine Tourism Advisory Committee Meeting

Thursday, August 13 9:00am – Parks and Cemetery Board Meeting All City offices are currently closed to the public. Contact information for staff and Councilmembers can be found on the City’s website. Call (360) 332-8311 or visit our website.

www.cityofblaine.com

Newsstand Copies of The Northern Light are available at: Bay Center Market Blaine Harbor Office Bay Properties Edaleen Dairy Beachwood Store Nimbus Realty Birch Bay Chamber Dollar Store GKT Gas Station Cost Cutter Domino’s Rite Aid Custer Post Office Dank of America Pacific Building Center Walgreens Ferndale Yorky’s on Blaine Rd. Ferndale Lube Windermere - Birch Bay Square The Market at Birch Bay Square Banner Bank Building Lobby The Northern Light Bldg.

didn’t turn people away

 sharon@sharon4whatcom.com  sharon4whatcom.com  facebook.com/VoteSharonShewmake

225 Marine Dr. • Blaine, WA 360 -332-1777

Neither do we. (360) 332-6906 885 4th St. • Blaine, WA 98230 Pastor Sandy Wisecarver

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The Northern Light • July 23 - 29, 2020

Hospital District Seeks Service Provider Point Roberts Washington Public Hospital District is looking for a service provider for our medical clinic beginning January 1, 2021. We are a 3-day per week clinic providing primary and urgent care. Point Roberts is part of Whatcom County, situated on the US/Canada border at the southern tip of an otherwise British Columbia peninsula. We are open to proposals from clinic-based organizations as well as proposals to operate as an independent entity. Details about our clinic and services can be viewed at www.pointrobertsclinic.com. Email questions or request for RFP to: superintendent@prphd.org. Deadline July 31, 2020 4 p.m.

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Blaine councilmember, 42nd district candidate investigated for campaign mail B y G r a c e M c C a rt h y The Washington Office of the Secretary of State has asked the USPS, the U.S. Postal Inspection Service and Department of Homeland Security to investigate potential illegal activity after Alicia Rule, Democratic candidate for 42nd Legislative District and current Blaine city councilmember, posted a Facebook photo of a ballot wrapped in her campaign mailer. Rule’s Facebook post was captioned: “Ballots arrived today! Mine was carefully tucked together with a flyer by our neighborhood postal worker. I am reminded of just how much support we have because even that postal worker’s union has endorsed our campaign. We are in this together for all of us.” The state office of the Secretary of State began investigating after seeing other lawmakers share the July 17 Facebook post, according to Kylee Zabel, the

office’s communications director Some lawmakers suggested that Rule had something to do with ballots being wrapped in her mailers. Rep. Luanne Van Werven, a Republican from Lynden and the incumbent for the 42nd Legislative District, first shared screenshots of Rule’s post from J.T. Wilcox (R-Yelm) on her official Facebook on July 19. Wilcox said he was calling for an immediate investigation. In a July 20 follow-up Facebook post addressing calls for investigation, Rule said some ballots arrived with campaign material around them but that was common for mail carriers to do when fitting mail in a mailbox. Rule also clarified that she is endorsed by the Retired Public Employees union and the Washington State Labor Council. On July 21, Van Werven posted an update about the incident saying, “At the very minimum, one should never brag about this

kind of act. It undermines the integrity of our elections. This is serious and my opponent is not taking it seriously.” Rule said she believes these allegations are divisive politics that extend to a bigger picture of the Trump administration working to discredit vote-by-mail, which she says is an important part of democracy. “I think integrity matters and leadership and that’s what I’m trying to bring the table, to the best of my ability,” Rule said. A spokesperson for the Washington State Public Disclosure Commission (PDC), an agency that regulates candidates, campaigns and lobbyists, said the agency received a complaint that alleged the mailer was a violation of a campaign finance law. The PDC declined to open an enforcement case since the matter involves the possible use of federal resources, rather than state or local resources, the spokesperson said.

Blaine police chief Tanksley bans neck restraints amid national policing debate By Ian Haupt

ALLEY AUTO INC 365 D Street • 360-332-7018

MON-FRI 8AM TO 5:30PM

Blaine police chief Donnell Tanksley has suspended the use of the vascular neck restraint by Blaine police officers until further review of the technique. The neck restraint, sometimes referred to as the carotid chokehold, has been the subject of national debate over police use of force tactics following the death of George Floyd, a Black man killed by Minnesota police officers on May 25. Tanksley said the ban on the restraint technique was a decision

he made based on the current national conversation surrounding police use of force. He said the technique needs to be further examined before he will allow his officers to use it again. Tanksley did not say when the department’s use of force policy would be examined, but that he was doing his due diligence by suspending the control hold. He said there is no other alternative hold as severe that officers could use while the neck restraint is banned. Blaine patrol sergeant Brent

Greene said the vascular neck restraint has never been used by a Blaine police department officer. Officers use other forms of control tactics, like joint manipulation, handcuffs and control point tactics, he said. Other agencies within Whatcom County still use the neck restraint, Tanksley said. All officers undergo training by certified officers from the Washington State Criminal Justice Training Commission before using the neck restraint in the field, the police chief said.

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North Whatcom Fire and Rescue Fire Commissioners are looking to appoint an INTERIM FIRE COMMISSIONER. The appointment will run until November 23, 2021.

Candidates must be residents and registered voters of the district. (RCW 52.14.010; RCW 29A.24.075). Those interested are encouraged to submit a letter of interest and statement of qualifications. Please submit your letter and qualifications no later than Friday, August 28 to: Email: jsand@nwfrs.com Note Attention Board of Fire Commissioners in the subject line.

For additional information please visit the district’s website @ www.nwfrs.net or contact Administrative Assistant Jennie Sand @ (360) 318-9933.

288 Martin Street, ste 302, Blaine, WA 98230 360-388-4068 raymondjames.com/redwoodinvestments Number of employees: Three. How long in business: Financial advisors since 2002. David Geske and John Carlson started Redwood Investments in southern California (Irvine), and opened a second office in downtown Blaine, WA, in fall 2019. Description of the business: Redwood Investments helps individuals and businesses invest carefully in stock and bond markets and designs income strategies for life. The team works closely with tax advisors and estate attorneys and will help to match you to the right professionals. Janine Miller, the client services manager, is a long time member of the firm and assists with administration, client service and communication. How the business started: David and John both began their dream careers after working as management consultants - David in Chicago, IL and John in Washington, D.C. After persisting through the dot-com bubble, the 2001 economic recession and the Great Recession in 2008, they gained the knowledge and experience to help investors navigate good markets, but also challenging environments. Future goals: We seek to advise families and businesses on how to build and maintain their wealth predictably for the long term. Securities offered through Raymond James Financial Services, Inc., member FINRA/SIPC. Investment advisory services are offered through Raymond James Financial Services Advisors, Inc. Redwood Investments is not a registered broker/dealer and is independent of Raymond James Financial Services.

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July 23 - 29, 2020 • thenorthernlight.com

s Customers at Bob’s Burgers and Brew observe the mask requirement while entering the restaurant in Birch Bay on July 21. Cody Bowden, general manager at Bob’s Burgers and Brew, said the mask mandate has added additional pressure to his restaurant as 30-40 percent of customers are reluctant to wear masks. T Subway customers in Birch Bay wear masks as they order sandwiches on July 21. Photos by Kyra Planetz

Masks ... From page 1

ing to do is go home safe to our families,” Sooter said. “We want to stay safe and for our community to stay safe.” Sooter said it’s hard to understand why people can’t wear a mask while they shop for half an hour when his employees are working eight to 12 hours per day with their face coverings. Exemptions apply to people with medical conditions that prevent them from wearing masks and children two-yearsold or younger, according to the Washington state Coronavirus response website. Employees are unable to ask about a customer’s medical history or ask for documentation, the mandate states. Sooter recommends people unable to wear masks due to medical conditions utilize The Market’s curbside pickup services, a sentiment echoed by Bow Wow and Woofs owner Heather Campbell. But Cody Bowden, general manager at Bob’s Burgers and Brew, said the mask mandate has added additional pressure to his restaurant as 30-40 percent of customers are reluctant to wear masks. “It hasn’t been fun to mandate things that people don’t want to do. A lot of guests are frustrated,” Bowden said. “Right now, it’s political and it’s hard for a business that doesn’t want to be political.” Bowden said the restaurant has never experienced this level of pushback from customers, leaving employees in confrontational positions. “It puts people in an uncomfortable situation that shouldn’t be mandated by the business. I think it should be a recommendation because it’s common cour-

tesy,” he said. “You’re asking people to do something out of their job description.” The Blaine police department has received one complaint from Cost Cutter that resulted in a man and his wife being trespassed after claiming to have Covid-19 and coughing through the store before threatening to assault the manager when escorting them out, according to a spokesperson for the department. One complaint was filed from a citizen against an unnamed business and the employee immediately took action, the spokesperson said. Businesses not enforcing the mask mandate can face a fine of $10,000 or more because of a safety and health violation from the department of labor and industries, according to the Washington state Covid-19 response website. People who violate the face covering mandate are subject to a misdemeanor with a fine up to $100 and up to 90 days in county jail, the website states. Bob’s Burgers and Brew has signs telling customers that face masks are required and the business has gone paperless to reduce contact. Restaurant patrons need to wear masks when walking around the restaurant or talking with staff, but can remove them to eat and drink, according to the mandate. Natalie Gehringer, owner of New Edge Salon, said the governor’s mandate reinforced what she and her hair stylists were already asking customers to do. “It got easier because it wasn’t us making the decision, it was the governor making the decision,” she said. Gehringer said it took clients a few weeks to adjust to the new rules such as appointments and mask-wearing but her salon has since found a new groove

during Covid-19. “It feels really good to be back,” she said. “It’s a slower pace but a welcomed pace.”

SPORTS CENTER

First American to summit Everest working on local mask campaign Jim Whittaker, the first American to reach the Mt. Everest summit in 1963, is teaming up on a campaign called “Wear a Mask” advocating for mask wearing during Covid-19. The campaign includes Dr. Bill Lombard, former medical director of Davita-Mt. Baker Kidney Center in Bellingham, and Micki Jackson, coordinator for the “Wear a Mask” initiative and the Realities of Advanced Medical Intervention. “To get this nasty bug under control, we need to wear masks while we’re out in public,” Whittaker said in a statement to The Northern Light. “Teamwork is required to reach a mountain summit. It’ll take teamwork to stop Covid-19 spread. Let’s get this done.” Lombard said he prepared for masks during SARS in the early 2000s because patients at the kidney center were susceptible to the respiratory illness caused by a coronavirus. “So much to gain, so little to lose by wearing a mask,” he said. “This is not about personal freedom. This is about protecting others and ourselves.”

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The Northern Light • July 23 - 29, 2020

Have fun on the water but be safe for Paddle Safe Week This week, July 19-25, the Washington State Parks Boating Program wants paddlers to have fun on the water while being safe. The Paddle Safe Week campaign focuses on safety on Washington’s marine and fresh waterways. According to the Outdoor Foundation’s “2019 Special Report on Paddlesports and Safety,” paddle sports continue to grow in popularity, with kayaking and stand up paddling leading the way. But only 23 percent of kayakers and 31 percent of stand up paddlers have considered taking formal safety training, the report found. “These statistics are troubling,” said Rob Sendak, boating program manager for the Washington State Boating Program, in a press release. “Paddle sports are fun activities, but they also involve risk. We strongly recommend people educate themselves. Educated paddlers make life-saving choices to increase their safety and reduce risk – such as always wearing a life jacket and filing a float plan.”

Safety is especially important in paddle sports, as kayaks and stand up paddlers are at a higher risk of capsizing and swamping than other boats, according to the news release. Since 2012, close to half of all boating deaths in the state involved paddlecraft. Safety tips The boating program recommends that paddlers become educated on laws and safety procedures. At a minimum, people should take a course to learn about safety, emergency procedures and navigational rules. State law requires that all vessels have at least one properly-fitted Coast Guard-approved life jacket for each person on board, and all children 12 and under must wear a life jacket. Seventy-nine percent of paddle-related fatalities from 2015 to 2017 involved drownings, and of those drowning victims, 74 percent weren’t wearing a life jacket, according to the news release. Before going out on the water, people should have a route plan, even if just going out for a short

paddle, and always tell someone the plan. Paddlers should carry essentials for safety, emergency communications and comfort. State law requires carrying a sound-producing device, such as a whistle – even on a stand up paddleboard. Additional safety considerations Paddlers should check the weather frequently before and during their trip, keeping an eye on current conditions and forecasts. Check warnings, weather

conditions, wind and wave forecasts, tides or river flows. Falling into water under 60 degrees is dangerous and many local waters, including lakes and rivers, stay below 60 degrees all year. The biggest risk is not hypothermia but cold water shock, which can happen very quickly. Operating any vessel while under the influence of alcohol or drugs, including marijuana, is unsafe and illegal. Washington state’s Boating Under the Influ-

ence law applies to all boats including kayaks, canoes, stand up paddleboards, rowboats and inflatable fishing rafts. People should paddle to be seen by wearing bright colors and colors that contrast, sticking reflective tape on paddles, using a flagpole and carrying a bright light. Learn more about Paddle Safe Week and the Washington State Parks Boating Program at parks. wa.gov/boating.

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July 23 - 29, 2020 • thenorthernlight.com

New map promoting boating features local access points This spring, the Port of Bellingham released a promotional map to water access points along Whatcom County’s marine shoreline and freshwater lakes. The Whatcom Water Trail map aims to promote the region as a water sports destination and is the first step in a longer process. The Port of Bellingham and its partners plan to continue engaging the public and working with local landowners to identify key locations and prioritize improve-

ments for safety and access. River access will be included in a future version. Local access points on the map include Semiahmoo Resort, the public boat launch at Blaine Harbor, Dakota Creek Kayak Launch Park and Birch Bay State Park. Gina Stark, project manager with the Port of Bellingham’s Regional Economic Partnership, led the project with help from Recreation Northwest, Kristi Kucera of Moondance Sea Kay-

ak Adventures and local public land agencies. “This has been an amazing cross-agency collaboration, working with city of Bellingham parks, city of Blaine, Whatcom County parks, Washington State Parks, DNR and Lummi Nation,” Stark said. With the pandemic, the Port of Bellingham is focused on economic development and other issues, but plans to update the map in the future, Stark said.

WATER TRAIL MAP

DRAYTON HARBOR

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WHATCOM COUNTY, WASHINGTON

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LAKE TERRELL

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Photo courtesy BBWSD

NOT FOR NAVIGATIONAL USE

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Kayakers on California Creek in Blaine.

Lake Terrel Road

Ferndale

Lighthouse Marine Park, Point Roberts ..........................................

Semiahmoo Park ........................................................................................

Semiahmoo Resort ........................................................................

Blaine Boat Launch ...................................................................................

Dakota Creek Kayak Launch............................................................................

Birch Bay State Park .................................................................

Gulf Road........................................................................................................

Lake Terrell .....................................................................................................

Little Squalicum Beach...................................................................................

Squalicum Harbor Boat Launch .................................................................

Zuanich Point Park ....................................................................................

Cornwall Beach...............................................................................................

Boulevard Park ..........................................................................................

Fairhaven Boat Launch, Community Boating Center................................

Marine Park ....................................................................................................

Larrabee State Park, Wildcat Cove ...............................................

Lake Samish (Fish & Wildlife) ..............................................................

Samish Park ..............................................................................................

Lake Padden Boat Launch (access rentals via west entrance) .....

Lake Whatcom (Bloedel-Donovan) ................................................

Lake Whatcom Park ...................................................................................

Lake Whatcom (Fire Hall) .................................................................................

Slater Road

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* See note regarding Lummi Nation border on reverse side.

Portage Island

Alabama St.

Yew St.

Sunset Beach

Lummi Nation

Woburn St.

Lummi Ferry

Bellingham

Locust Beach

Cornwall Ave.

LUMMI BAY

542

LAKE PADDEN

CHUCKANUT BAY

18 LAKE SAMISH

Larrabee State Park

Clayton Beach

22 17

The Northern Light • July 23 - 29, 2020

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The city of Blaine is working on plans for more dining at downtown plazas By Oliver Lazenby The city of Blaine added chairs, tables and flowerpots at the G Street plaza in downtown Blaine and has more plans to make that plaza a space where people can enjoy food from local restaurants. People can bring take-out food to the outdoor dining area and community planner Alex Wenger said the city plans to post menus to nearby restaurants at the space soon. “Once that is set up, someone could go read the different menus, order take-out, and have a nice outdoor dining experience at that space,” he said. “You could do that today, of course, but I

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The city of Blaine created a take-out dining area with chairs and tables at the G Street plaza. Photo by Oliver Lazenby

think having all the menus right there would be nice.” After that, the city is hoping to find restaurants and vendors to set up at the plaza once a week or more to host a beer garden, serve simple food that could be brought to the site or cooked on a barbecue or portable cooking appliance, or provide other services. “That’s the idea,” he said. “There are some challenges we’re working through with the health department on permitting it.” Paso Del Norte and The Vault

Wine Bar and Bistro, among others, are interested in participating, Wenger said. The city of Blaine has worked to allow businesses to use space in the H and G Street plazas since early June. On June 9, Blaine city manager Michael Jones issued an emergency order allowing businesses to set up on the plazas with a special permit. The order waives code limits on use of the downtown plazas, allowing businesses to apply for a park special-use permit to set up dining or retail space. That order

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is in place until October 1 Drayton Harbor Oyster Company is currently using part of the H Street plaza, but the option is open to other restaurants and retail businesses as well. Wenger said the city is considering other options to allow businesses more outdoor space, including closing some parking on Peace Portal Drive and turning it over to restaurants. “We’re exploring options here and we’re pleased to at least provide this,” Wenger said of the new tables at the G Street plaza.

July 23 - 29, 2020 • thenorthernlight.com

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IN THE SUPERIOR COURT OF THE STATE OF WASHINGTON IN AND FOR THE COUNTY OF WHATCOM In re the Matter and Estate of: REAH lOLA FREEMAN, Deceased. No. 20-400347-37. PROBATE NOTICE TO CREDITORS. RCW 11.40.030 The Co-Personal Representatives named below have been appointed as Co-Personal Representatives of this estate. Any person having a claim against the decedent must, before the time the claim would be barred by any otherwise applicable statute of limitations, present the claim in the manner as provided in RCW 11.40.070 by serving on or mailing to the Personal Representative or the Personal Representative's attorney at the address stated below a copy of the claim and filing the original of the claim with the court in which the probate proceedings were commenced. The claim must be presented within the later of: (1) Thirty days after the Personal Representative served or mailed the notice to the creditor as provided under RCW 11.40.020(1) (c); or (2) four months after the date of first publication of the notice. If the claim is not presented within this time frame, the claim is forever barred, except as otherwise provided in RCW 11.40.051 and 11.40.060. This bar is effective as to claims against both the decedent's probate and nonprobate assets. NOTICE OF FIRST PUBLICATION: July 23, 2020 Co-Personal Representatives: PATRICIA ANN PARRISH, BRUCE W. FREEMAN, TERRI L. HANSEN, PRESENTED BY: Whatcom Law Group, P.S. Roger L. Ellington, WSBA #19292 Attorney for Co-Personal Representatives PO Box 1258 / 289 H Street Blaine, WA 98231-1258 (360)332-7000, Fax (360)332-6677

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Blaine Pantec Mini Storage LLC is looking to hire a Leasing Assistant to support the Facility Manager; to lease and manage storage accounts from the office. Responsibilities include selling self-storage space on a lease basis, handling of payments, questions about accounts and storage units, management of delinquent accounts including rent collection, resolving customer issues, assisting and reporting to the Facility Manager. Requirements: • Excellent phone communication skills • Basic computer skills • Proficient in Excel • Willingness and ability to learn new computer software • Ability to pass full background and criminal check • Compliance with company policies and procedures • Starting at $17-$19/hour DOE, with possible increases over time based on performance. This job is part time and temporary, with potential for a permanent position. An application may be found at http://pantecblaine.com/ Email your application with a cover letter in body of the email to: BlainePantec@gmail.com or drop them off at the office.

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The Northern Light • July 23 - 29, 2020

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8745 Oertel Drive MLS #1627557 9495 Semiahmoo Pkwy #A2E 7714 Birch Bay Drive #103 $2,500,00 Coveted waterfront residence that’s EZ to $739,000 MLS #1626704 $439,000 MLS#1563744 get to & hard to leave. Spectacular West facing saltwater sunsets & city lights w/ gentle meandering walkway to your privately owned beach w/one-of-a-kind boathouse. Dramatic open design with exquisite appointments throughout. Owners & guest suites along w/almost every other room offer sweeping marine views of Inland Pacific. Features Chefs kitchen, vaulted ceilings, media & games room +++ & is offered Fully furnished! Tour photo gallery & be amazed., Enjoy!

Mike Kent 360-815-3898

Enjoy beachfront living and the sounds of the sea from this unobstructed waterfront condo. Well maintained two-story condo is in great shape and just waiting for you! Just bring your golf clubs and you’ll be set! Steps from the beach and minutes from the Semiahmoo Resort Hotel/Marina, every Northwest activity you can think of is right here. Plenty of space throughout, high ceilings on the main floor & private loft upstairs. Great waterfront vacation/investment property. A must see.

Kathy Stauffer 360-815-4718

Enjoy unobstructed front & center VIEW of Birch Bay from this ground floor oceanfront condo. This sunny west facing residence features 9 ft ceilings, AC, custom cabinets, slab granite counters, tile & wood flooring & open concept living area. Exceptional quality throughout this 2-bedroom, 2 bath condo. Luxurious bathrooms include radiant heated flooring & jetted tub. A beautiful spacious patio for entertaining accessible from living area & master. Assigned covered parking, & Deeded private beach.

Randy Weg 360-305-5704

NEW

9049 Shearwater Road MLS #1613807 $1,998,000

Dramatic west facing WATERFRONT home w/striking Bay/Islands/Mts & Sunset views. Inspired Architectural Design w/highest 4751 Birch Bay Lynden Rd #293 quality finishes/amenities. Easy main floor $69,0000 MLS #1620907 living. Spacious open floor plan. Chef’s Spectacular 180 day lot, well situated in the dream kit, mstr bdrm retreat w/spa-like park. Bring your motor home / fifth wheel bathroom. Wine rm, MIL suite & more. Priand enjoy the pool, club house, hot tub and vate shy acre w/lrg flat yards. Broad/level exercise center. Latitude 49 is perfect for a driveway w/no-step entry. Stairs to beachweekend getaway, spot to park and enjoy scenic walks/seafood harvest/water sports. you RV or as a long-term rental RV spot Gated community-paved trails, golf, marina, when not in use. Park has gated security, resort hotel/spa/eateries 1:45min/Seattle, close to the beach, I-5 and CDN border. 40min/Van. BC.

Gerry Allen 360-920-0563

5517 Maple Way MLS #1617183 $549,000

Lucy Saldana 360-303-6838

Premier Southwest sun exposure greets you at this most precious waterfront property. First time on the market in 50 years. Summer cottage offers two bedrooms, one bath, open floor plan with the kitchen open to the Great room, and access to a spacious deck. Newer roof and architectural cedar shakes on the outside of the cottage, with coastal decor on display. Generous front and backyards. Hear and see the whales and sea lions from the property. Panoramic views of the San Juan and Gulf Islands.

Brian Southwick 360-815-6638

PRIC

For the health & safety of our clients, Windermere Real Estate is pleased to follow the State of Washington’s mandate to not hold Open Houses. We are, however, available to show you your dream home by virtual tour or private appointment. Please call your Realtor for assistance.

5358 Canvasback Road 8217 Chehalis Road MLS #1576574 $1,100,000 MLS #1589430 Spectacular, bespoke showhome at Semi$698,000

Come home to this remarkable “Weibe” built custom home w/features galore. Spectacular golf course & Mtn views. Glass railed Gorgeous views from this high bank Birch sundeck, resort style private patio w/founBay waterfront, gently sloped .36 acre tain, gardens & hot tub. Inside find magahomesite ready for your dream home. One zine quality appointments, colors & creativof the last remaining waterfront lots with ity. From luxurious owners suite to gourmet spectacular views of Birch Bay, Coastal Ca- kitchen no detail overlooked. Family/media nadian mountains and sparkling city lights. room, oversize garage & huge storage. In Enjoy private neighborhood beach access, popular Birch Bay Village guard gated golf, beach combing, minutes’ walk to the State pickleball, tennis & marina community. Home Warranty & first yr HOA dues paid Park and a short distance to I-5.

XXX Holeman Ave MLS #1405680 $399,000

Ingrid Andaluz 360-961-0488

NEW

Mike Kent 360-815-3898

Brian Southwick 360-815-6638

9009 Gleneagle Drive 1174 Hughes Ave, Blaine MLS #1631064 $315,000 MLS #1628233 $498,500

8287 Beachway Dr MLS #1623351 $259,000

Birch Bay is a prime location for recreation and summer fun! Clamming, crabbing, fishing, and beach combing a five-minute walk from your front door!

Jeff Carrington 360-220-3224

5756 Salish Road MLS #1627264 $225,000

Charming 3-bedroom home on a large corner lot in sought after Birch Bay Village community! This updated home would make an ideal getaway spot, affordable full-time residence, or a fantastic addition to your investment portfolio - easy to rent out now and build the dream house later. Updated flooring, wood accent wall, spacious deck and ready to move right in. Unrivaled Birch Bay Village amenities include marina, beaches, golf course, outdoor pool, tennis, clubhouse & 24-hour security gate.

Leah Crews 360-305-4747

Brenda Mills 360-319-0072

PRIC

5111 Heronswood Drive MLS #1594455 $787,000

Welcome home to Heronswood, a unique, gated 13 (potentially) home community in the midst of 62+/- acre woodland populated by great blue herons, minutes to Birch Bay, Semiahmoo warm saltwater & sandy beaches. 5111, born in 2014, is 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 -each w/own bath. 785 sq. ft. 3 car garage w/electric charging station. Coastal acreage gated community.

ahmoo Resort features captivating views of Drayton Harbor & coastal mountains. Timeless design, luxe details & fine craftsmanship. 5000+ sf of highly flexible living space will accommodate every need. Huge sauna w/walk-in shower, impressive wine cellar. Covered patio & decks accessible from many rooms, efficient water-radiant heat, 3-car garage. Enjoy beautiful gated neighborhoods, golf club, marina, fitness center/ spa, fine dining, quiet beaches & walking trails. Virtual Tour: DraytonVista.com

$620,000

7566 Morrison Avenue MLS #1631006 $259,500

Location says it all! 2 blocks to the beach, 1 block to C Shop. This 2-bedroom 3/4 bath cottage is great for year-round living, a weekender or a VRBO. However you look at it, it’s Turn-key. Furniture stays.

Gerry Allen 360-920-0563

Being the house on the corner is a wonderful perk when the large lawn next to you faces south! Enjoy immense rays of sunshine coming off the fairway with a bit of privacy. High efficiency kitchen with real wood cabinets & granite counters. Vaulted great room & spacious master suite with huge bathroom. Charming guest room, inviting den & attached 2-car garage. Major house improvements in 2019 & 2020. New paint, gas range, microwave, fridge, washer/dryer, AC, water heater & furnace!

Kathy Stauffer 360-815-4718

7545 Sunset Dr

MLS #1622292 Once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to purchase a beautiful water view property w/ in home elevator to all floors! 3 bed/4 bath home has been very lightly lived in & would be an ideal full-time residence or vacation rental. Open concept kitchen/dining/living features gas fireplace, 10’ ceilings + leads directly to massive wraparound bay view deck. No detail overlooked: Credo built & rock solid - wide & bright spaces, skylights, solid core doors + just steps to Birch Bay State Park & The C-Shop.

Jen Freeman 360-815-0803

New Construction - Cute Designer Styled Cottage with 3 bedrooms, 1.5 baths just a short stroll to the beach and parks in Blaine. Open concept w/master on the main floor and large loft/bdrm. Custom woodwork & unique finishes. Compact community near all conveniences and minutes to I-5 and the US/Canadian border. Private backyard with buffer zone of trees & nature along back & south side of property. Relax on your covered front or back porch, sit around your own fire-pit or enjoy your garden view!

Sharon Engels 360-303-0542

8783 Clubhouse Point MLS #1232342 $1,049,000

3935 sf. Last paired home at Semiahmoo’s 14 residence “Clubhouse Point”. Premium Southern exposure. Elevated, lake & green views of Palmerdesigned 18th fairway. Primary living on main. Spacious office opens to your private interior courtyard. Expansive covered decks, walls of windows bring the outdoors in. Super pantry, Stainless appliances, white cabinets, quartz counters, juxtaposed w/gloss charcoal island to match massive stone tiled FP. Gloss white cabinets in laundry & baths. 3 car gar.age

Linda Kiens 360-815-6640

www.windermere.com I’m always available to show you by private appointment all Residential, Commercial, Vacant Land & New Construction Properties!

What is your house worth?

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Call Hugh :

360.371.5800 Your Local Expert For All Real Estate, Residential Or Commercial Services!

Hugh Brawford, Managing Broker

Semiahmoo Marina Boat Slips Available!

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.

www.CallHugh.com

PROPERTY MANAGEMENT • Vacation Properties WE DO • Residential Properties ! IT ALL • Commercial Properties Call Phill Esau Today!

Nimbus Property Management

360-594-8600 225 G Street, Suite 102

Downtown Blaine (Across from Hill’s Chevron)

www.NimbusRealEstate.com

Breathtaking View Home! 7413 Jackson Rd. Birch Bay. This custom built home, boasts beautiful views of Birch Bay! There's plenty of room for entertaining on either the upper or lower deck, or move the party inside with a huge living room and open loft space on the second floor. The suite downstairs has a separate entrance, bathroom, and kitchenette. Please take a look at the 360 tour on mattgoldmanhomes.com Matt Goldman 360-927-3942

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.

FIND IT IN THE CLASSIFIEDS

July 23 - 29, 2020 • thenorthernlight.com

Majority using low-barrier Covid-19 test site lack a primary care doctor Health department plans to release more information about low-barrier test site this week By Oliver Lazenby The majority of people tested at Whatcom County’s low-barrier Covid-19 pilot test site at Civic Field Stadium in Bellingham did not have a primary healthcare provider, the Whatcom County Health Department found. The low-barrier site is the first site in the county that performed free drive-through and walk-up testing for people without an appointment or a doctor’s referral. While the majority of those tested (86 percent) had health insurance, only 33.5 percent reported that they have a primary care provider. The testing site was a four-day pilot program, with testing on July 10-11 and July 17-18. In that time, 1,814 people were tested, with 1,021 tests conducted last weekend alone. In a July 20 press release, the county health department said that everyone had been notified of their results and about one percent of people tested positive. Since the test site opened, the percentage of people testing positive in Whatcom County has declined to 2.1 percent. For the week ending July 1, 2.7 percent of people tested in Whatcom County were positive. The state’s goal for the percentage of individuals testing positive is 2 percent or less.

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Eighty-nine people from Blaine, Custer and Birch Bay were tested at the site. Seventy percent of those tested at the site said they live in Bellingham, and “very few” came from outside the county, according to the press release. Of those tested, 29.3 percent were ages 19-29 and 25.4 percent were 30-49. Just over 11 percent of those who got tested said they were a close contact of a confirmed case, and 23.7 reported that they had symptoms but were not a close contact of a confirmed case. The rest (64.5 percent) wanted to be tested for screening purposes only. At press time, Whatcom County Health Department and its partner in running the site, Whatcom Unified Command, had not announced additional test dates or released other information on future low-barrier testing. The press release said more information would be available later

Nurses bring supplies into the drive through testing tents at the low-barrier testing site at Civic Field Stadium in Bellingham on Saturday, July 11.

Photo by Kyra Planetz

this week. Currently, the easiest way to get tested in Whatcom County is to get a referral from a primary care provider. Northwest Labs in Bellingham offers drive-through testing by appointment with a referral. They typically have appointments available within 24 hours, according to the news release.

RECENT HOUSE & LOT PRICES

Blaine, Birch Bay & Point Roberts JUNE 2020

DESCRIPTION

LOCATION

SALE PRICE

HIGHER END HOUSES - $500,000 AND ABOVE: 2-story house with 1,917 SF, 4 BD, 2 BA, attached garage, built in 2020, .20 acres land.

8638 Blue Grouse Way, Blaine

$549,000

2-story house 3,260 with SF, 4 BD, 4 BA, built in garage, built in 2020; marine view, .25 acres land.

5522 Whitehorn Way, Blaine

$675,000

1-story house with 2,765 SF, 4 BD, 3 BA, 909 SF attached garage, 592 SF deck, built in 2007, 20.38 acres land.

9855 Foxhurst Court, Blaine

$697,000

8855 Osprey Road, Blaine

$555,000

6082 Birch Point Road, Blaine

$691,000

9027 Dearborn Avenue, Blaine

$310,000

9827 Markworth Road, Blaine

$185,000

1631 Edwards Drive, Point Roberts

$350,000

Benson Road, Point Roberts

$175,000

1-and a half story house with 2,624 SF, 3 BD, 4 BA, 710 SF attached garage, 186 SF patio, built in 1989, .52 acres land; territorial view. 2-story house with 2,660 SF, 4 BD, 2 BA, 720 SF attached garage, 864 SF detached garage, built in 2003, 4.82 acres land. LAND: .17 acres residential lot with 66 feet waterfront; marine view. 1.03 acres agricultural land .18 acres residential lot, waterfront; marine and territorial view. 10.01 acres residential land.

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I-5 Exit 270 at Birch Bay Square 360-527-8901 • mike@mikekent.com

Those without a primary care provider can contact their insurance to get a list of doctors in their provider network. SeaMar Community Health Center is providing testing for everyone,

even those who aren’t patients, the press release said. More information about testing can be found here: Whatcomcounty.us/3388/COVID-19-testing.

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