October 8 - 14, 2020
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Maritime nonprofit has big plans for historic boat, page 2
Your six-word Covid-19 memoirs, page 5
Local politicians campaign in a pandemic, page 6
PRSRT STD U. S. Postage PAID Permit NO. 87 Blaine, WA 98230
City council One step closer to finding underground nests reinstates late fees on B&O, gas and utility tax By Oliver Lazenby
(See Late fees, page 15)
s From l., Vikram Iyer, a University of Washington Ph.D. student who created a radio tag to track the Asian giant hornet, shows WSDA entomologist Chris Looney, eradication coordinator Rian Wojahn and managing entomologist Sven Spichiger how to use the device on September 30 in east Blaine. Photo courtesy WSDA
Racing to find hornet nests before “slaughter phase” By Grace McCarthy Threat of the Asian giant hornet establishing itself in Blaine before spreading across the state, and potentially the West Coast, looms as the hornets enter the ‘slaughter’ phase of their life cycle in early fall. On September 30, the Washington State Department of Agriculture got one step closer to meeting its goal of finding at least one of the underground nests, thanks to a few leads from residents in east Blaine, near Burk Road. A week earlier on September 21, Philip Bovenkamp was working outside when he heard a low-pitched hum, similar to a hummingbird but different from anything he’d ever heard. Bovenkamp followed the noise, suspicious after his wife had doubted a sighting earlier that week and he had seen something large fly by earlier. He’d been on high alert for bugs because his fifthgrade daughter, Jillian, was catching them
for an entomology project at her school in Lynden. Bovenkamp, who lives on 5 acres, traced the unfamiliar noise to a hornet inspecting a paper wasp nest in his tool shed. After one Google search, he was able to verify the large orange-and-black hornet with almond-shaped eyes was the same invasive insect scientists were calling on the public to trap. As October neared, researchers needed people to spot the hornets more than ever as the insects enter their slaughter phase, when they attack their prey in force for food. With nests established and new queens preparing to mate later this month, scientists said, time to prevent honeybee killings runs short. If not controlled in Washington state, the hornets could spread down the West Coast and eventually reach the East Coast and even the coasts of Africa, Australia, Europe and South America, according to a Wash-
Blaine’s Holiday Harbor Lights Fundraiser Let’s light up downtown Blaine this holiday season by celebrating our seaside location with nautical theme street pole ornament displays. Blaine Chamber of Commerce and Wildbird Charity are teaming up to accept (tax deductible) donations to purchase these light displays to decorate downtown this holiday season. For more info visit: blainechamber.com
ington State University study published September 22. The hornet thrives in areas with warm summers, mild winters and high rainfall, which means eastern Washington and the U.S. interior are inhospitable to the (See Hornets, page 10)
INSIDE
Blaine City Council has reinstated some late fees for quarterly and monthly tax payments that the city paused at the beginning of the pandemic. The late payment penalties will go into effect on November 1, the day after third quarter taxes are due. Council took action at its September 28 meeting. Blaine city manager Michael Jones waived late payment penalties for the city’s penny-per-gallon gas tax in March and the next month council waived late fees for quarterly business and occupancy tax payments, as well as a 6 percent tax on gross income that utility companies pay to the city. Since then, nearly all businesses have kept up with those tax payments, said Jeff Lazenby, city finance director (who is not related to the reporter). However, three major businesses have not paid quarterly B&O taxes all year. One of those businesses is a seafood merchant wholesaler and the other is a food wholesale manufacturer, according to meeting documents. Late fees for both utility taxes and B&O taxes are 10 percent of the total payment if it is received 1-30 days past the due date, 20 percent if it’s 3160 days past due and 30 percent for payments more than 61 days late. City council directed the finance department to create a proposal for reinstating those fees at its September 14 meeting. At that meeting, Lazenby told council that three major Blaine businesses hadn’t paid any B&O taxes, and that he was “fairly confident” that at least one of those businesses wasn’t much affected by the pandemic. “At this point, it may be kinder and more compassionate to not let people dig themselves into a hole that they can’t get back out of whenever this slingshots back,” councilmember Richard May said at that meeting. “If the idea is to just give them time, that’s not the same as giving them something for free.” Since this is the first year the city is collecting a B&O tax, getting payments from major businesses will help the city plan next year’s budget. “It would be very helpful for us to go
Letters . . . . . . . . . 4 Active Seniors . . . 8 Classifieds . . . . . 11 Police . . . . . . . . . 14 Puzzles . . . . . . . . 14 Tides . . . . . . . . . . 14
TheNorthernLight.com
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The Northern Light • October 8 - 14, 2020
Coast Guard inspects maritime nonprofit’s historic Bristol Bay sailboat By Grace McCarthy U.S. Coast Guard representatives made a trip from Seattle on September 23 to inspect Drayton Harbor Maritime’s (DHM) latest
Oct 10 11am – 1pm 4477 Sweet Rd near the Red Barn
Pick up your organic care package thanks to
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project – a 114-year-old Bristol Bay sailboat from the Alaska Packers Association’s Diamond NN Cannery. DHM founder Richard Sturgill and shipwright Steve Alaniz have poured thousands of hours into rebuilding the NN59 sailboat since 2013, when Trident Seafoods donated it to the local maritime nonprofit. Chris Schilling, chief warrant officer 3 for the U.S. Coast Guard, said the boat’s timeline to completion depends on the pace that Sturgill and Alaniz take for repairs, which could range from one to a couple of years. “They’re really making way on it,” said Schilling, who has inspected the boat four times in the past two years. Schilling said the rotting wood, which was once the biggest challenge of the boat, is nearly gone. Although the pandemic slowed the boat’s rebuild, Sturgill said they’re now making more progress and are focused on raising the remaining $60,750 for labor and materials. DHM is applying for a grant from the Blaine Tourism Advisory Committee and is in discussion with the Semiahmoo Yacht Club, Sturgill said. When the 12-passenger sailboat is complete, Sturgill envisions it chartering Semiahmoo Resort’s corporate clientele, event attendees and guests who want to learn more about Blaine’s maritime history. “It’s going to be a bookend in a really cool part of what our town is,” he said.
s On September 23, the U.S. Coast Guard inspected Drayton Harbor Maritime’s 114-year-old Bristol Bay sailboat that the nonprofit is working to rebuild.
Photo by Grace McCarthy
Josh Anderson, executive director of the Center for Wooden Boats in Seattle, said the NN59
It’s Time to Winterize Your Home Most residential water leaks result from pipes breaking during winter freezes. Fall is a good time to double check your water and sewer pipes to ensure everything is still protected before winter sets in. Water damage can cost you thousands of dollars.
sailboat is a sister boat to the museum’s most popular attraction, the Admirable. Anderson said the center picked the sailboat, one of 200 boats the center has in Lake Union, for its logo and to take passengers out on Sundays because of its unique history and look. “It’s iconic. You really don’t see anything much like it when you
General Winterizing Tips • Insulate outside pipes and faucets • Insulate pipes and faucets in unheated areas such as attics, garages, and crawl spaces • Check to see that vents under your home are closed • Inspect your water system closely during and immediately following cold weather, to verify that your water pipes are still in good shape
If Your Home Will Be Vacant for an Extended Time Period • Turn off water at the main supply point • Drain all water: indoor and outdoor • Make sure you have no exposed water pipes • Leave furnace on a low setting (55ºF) - lack of heat can freeze pipes in the wall and basement COVID-19 Announcement: For Birch Bay Water Sewer District customers who cannot physically visit their property, District crews are available at no fee to shut off the water meter at the street. If you are interested, please call the office 360-371-7100.
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see it sail,” Anderson said. DHM has also started a GoFundMe account on its website and Facebook pages to solicit help from residents invested in the boat returning to water. “A boat needs a job to survive long time,” Sturgill said. “The NN59 having its Certificate of Inspection from the Coast Guard will help assure it will have the ability to earn a living paying for its maintenance, moorage, insurance, captain and crew; all the elements of good stewardship this rare artifact deserves.” To donate to the project, visit draytonharbormaritime.com. Learn more at facebook.com/ draytonharbormaritime or bit. ly/2I79o4J.
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October 8 - 14, 2020 • thenorthernlight.com
Covid-19 case counts in Whatcom County
s Whatcom County added 39 new confirmed Covid-19 cases in the first five days of October, according to the Whatcom County Health Department.
Image courtesy of the Washington State Department of Health.
As of October 5, Whatcom County had a total of 1,406 confirmed cases of Covid-19 since the start of the pandemic and 48 deaths, according to the Washington State Department
of Health. In total, 100 people had been hospitalized with the virus. The rate of new diagnoses climbed through most of September but has declined since the end of
the month. Washington state has had 90,663 confirmed Covid-19 cases since the start of the pandemic and 2,165 with the virus had died as of October 5.
Steak
Tsunami siren to ring October 15 for ShakeOut emergency drill The Great Washington ShakeOut, an annual emergency preparedness drill, will be held at 10:15 a.m. on Thursday, October 15. The ShakeOut seeks to prepare Washingtonians for earthquakes and other emergencies. To participate, people should drop to the ground, take cover under a table or desk and hold on. The event is a chance to imagine what would happen during a major earthquake, and develop an emergency preparedness plan. It’s also a reminder to organize or refresh your emergency supply kit. During the ShakeOut, coastal
tsunami sirens throughout the state, including those in Blaine and Birch Bay, will be activated for approximately two minutes, according to a press release from the Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office. The ShakeOut will use a wailing siren sound, rather than the Westminster chimes that are used for monthly tests, according to the press release. “Preparing Whatcom County, the citizens and our communities for earthquakes, and the possible expected tsunamis that may follow, is one of the highest priorities for the Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office Division of Emer-
Fundraiser underway for new nautical-themed Holiday Harbor Lights Wildbird Charity and the Blaine Chamber of Commerce are raising money for an extra special Holiday Harbor Lights. For this year’s annual tree lighting ceremony and holiday festival, the two organizations are raising money to light up sections of Peace Portal Drive in downtown Blaine with unique nautical lights. Tax-deductible, tiered light
sponsorships give sponsors name recognition through a banner on the G Street Plaza, posts on the chamber website and social media pages, and ads in The Northern Light. To donate, visit wildbirdcharity.org. For more information, contact Donna Raimey, Blaine Chamber of Commerce program and events coordinator, at info@ blainechamber.com.
Lighthouse Baptist Church Welcomes you to meetings with
Evangelist Dan Knickerbocker Sunday, October 11 at 11 am and 6 pm Mon-Wed, October 12-14 at 7 pm
Lighthouse Baptist ChurCh
8373 Harborview Road, Birch Bay 360-303-2793 • birchbaybaptist.com
House
3-COURSE SUNSET DINNERS 4-5:30 PM SHARP
gency Management,” county sheriff Bill Elfo said in the press release. Sign up to participate and find additional information about how to be prepared for an earthquake or other disaster at shakeout.org/washington.
STARTS FRIDAY, OCTOBER 9
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Adult Clothing
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Winter Hours: Tue - Sat • 10 a.m. - 5 p.m.
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360-746-4466
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FUN THURSDAYS AT THE VAULT! October 8 at 7 pm
TRIVIA - CELEBRATING THE '90s October 15 at 7 pm
TEST YOUR TRIVIA OF SPORTS! October 22 at 7 pm
ROCKTOBER TRIVIA October 29 at 7 pm
Join us for an ONLINE GOSPEL MUSIC WORSHIP SERVICE
SPOOKY TRIVIA AND COSTUME CONTEST
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360-366-5181
Wed & Thurs • 4-9 p.m. | Fri & Sat • 4-10 p.m. | Happy Hour 4-5 p.m.
With our additional outdoor space, we are now taking reservations
360-392-0955
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For more information & current menu visit our website or call
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The Northern Light • October 8 - 14, 2020
The Northern L ght Birch Bay in 1955 The Northern Light is published weekly by Point Roberts Press Inc. Locally owned and managed, the company also publishes the All Point Bulletin, covering Point Roberts, Mount Baker Experience, covering the Mt. Baker foothills area, Pacific Coast Weddings annual guide, and the summer recreation guide Waterside as well as maps and other publications. Point Roberts Press Inc. is a member of the Washington Newspaper Publishers Association, Chambers of Commerce of Bellingham/ Whatcom County, Birch Bay, Blaine and Point Roberts and the Bellingham/ Whatcom County Convention and Visitors Bureau. The opinions expressed by contributors are their own and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the editors. Letters Policy The Northern Light welcomes letters to the editor. Please include name, address and daytime telephone number for verification. Letters are limited to 350 words and may be edited or rejected for reasons of legality, length and good taste. Thank-you letters are limited to five individuals or groups. Writers should avoid personal invective. Unsigned letters will not be accepted for publication. Requests for withholding names will be considered on an individual basis. Consumer complaints should be submitted directly to the business in question or the local chamber of commerce. Only one letter per month from an individual correspondent will be published. Email letters to letters@thenorthernlight.com.
Publisher & Managing Editor Patrick Grubb publisher@pointrobertspress.com Co-publisher & Advertising Director Louise Mugar lmugar@pointrobertspress.com Editor Oliver Lazenby oliver@pointrobertspress.com Reporter & Copy Editor Grace McCarthy grace@pointrobertspress.com Reporting Intern Ian Haupt prpintern@pointrobertspress.com Creative Services Ruth Lauman, Doug De Visser, production@pointrobertspress.com Office Manager Jeanie Luna info@pointrobertspress.com Advertising Sales Molly Ernst sales@pointrobertspress.com General Editorial Inquiries editor@pointrobertspress.com The Northern Light 225 Marine Drive, Suite 200, Blaine, WA 98230 Tel: 360/332-1777 Vol XXVI, No 17 Circulation: 10,500 copies
Earl Vogt overlooking his cabins at Bay Center, Birch Bay, 1955.
Letters (Ed. Note: The Northern Light published letters in previous issues regarding the Semiahmoo Resort Association. Generally, we only publish letters of general interest to our readers. We have subsequently received four more letters on this subject. These may be found online in our letters column.) The Editor: Lynden is a basketball town so may recognize that the “winningest coach in state history” (Seattle Times) passed away on September 14. Coach Ed Pepple (882-237) at Mercer Island won 23 King County conference titles. He encouraged his players to emphasize “we, us and our” over “I, me, my and mine.” Most people have a deep moral sense of concern for the community at large, the team “we, us, and our” concept. I support Sharon Shewmake and Alicia Rule as 42nd Legislative District candidates because they are “we, us and our” thinkers. Jennifer Sefzik uses F.I.R.E. characterizing her campaign. Financial responsibility, individual rights, local interests and limited environmental policy might be her personal principles, and are great goals, but they would not be the best representation for our whole 42nd district. Sharon Shewmake and Alicia Rule are open to serve with representation for all. Alicia, a family counselor, and Sharon, agricultural economics professor, seek to work on green transportation, rural childcare, improved data collection reflecting state needs and how to best use our resources, creating good jobs throughout the district, supporting good education and honoring veterans: “We, us and our” concepts. Principles are important and most candidates on the ballot are personable and highly principled. Vote for the seekers of the “we, us, and our” team makers. Donna Starr Blaine
Circulation Independently verified by:
Next issue: Oct. 15 Ads due: Oct. 9
The Editor: The Community Assistance Program will be providing Thanksgiving Dinner Baskets again this year for those in our community with financial need. Last year over 265 baskets were given out, and we anticipate the need will be as great, or greater, this year. To fund this program, which is run completely by our fantastic volunteers, we rely solely on the generous contributions of community members and businesses. As we receive no government funding, your help is needed, If you have the means to help
your neighbors in need, please mail your check to CAP Thanksgiving Basket Fund, P.O. Box 1067, Blaine, Washington 98231. CAP is a 501(c)(3) organization and is registered with the Washington Secretary of State; all donations are fully tax deductible. Thank you for blessing those in our community who need it most. The Thanksgiving basket program serves those with financial need, including families with children, seniors, and those who are disabled, unemployed, or under-employed, who reside in Blaine, Birch Bay, Custer and Point Roberts. If you qualify and would like to receive a Thanksgiving dinner basket, you must make a reservation starting Friday, October 2 and ending Friday, November 13. Please visit blainecap.org for registration and details. Reservations can also be made by calling 360/383-8444 by Friday, November 13. A specific pick up time will be assigned to you once you are registered. Baskets will not be available without a reservation. Shirley Tobian and Rhyan Lopez Thanksgiving basket co-directors Blaine The Editor: In light of Covid-19, and real safety concerns shared by parents and health officials, there is a possibility that the ‘Grinch’ could steal Halloween this year. If permitted by the city, county, and state, the Blaine Food Bank is considering offering a safe alternative to traditional door-to-door and trunkto-trunk trick or treating for children and their families. Before we make a decision, we would like input from our community. Tentative plans are to decorate our all-weather openair tent and set up different stations where children could trick or treat. In addition, we will have a decorated area for people to take photos of the children. Our volunteers would all be in costume, and every station would offer different decor and treats. The decorations and treats will all be provided by our volunteers. We would ask families to form a car queue, and remain in their warm cars until their turn. We would invite one family at a time to go through our tent. Only families in cars would be invited to participate, unless prior special arrangements were made. Masks and gloves would be required and provided, and all treats would be bagged. Please visit our website at blainefoodbank.org by Saturday, October 17, and leave any thoughts on our contact page. A simple
Photo by Jack Carver/courtesy Whatcom Museum
yes or no and, if yes, how many children would participate. We make this offer with a giving heart for our children who have missed so much this year, and with much gratitude for our community that has never forgotten hungry friends and neighbors. Thank you all for your support, and please be safe. Sally Church Blaine The Editor: I reference a letter in your last edition that took issue with those who would urge lawmakers to wait until after Jan. 21,2017 to seat a new Supreme Court Judge. For those who were in a coma in March 2016, with 10 months left in his term of office, President Barack Obama’s court nominee was met with a giant stone wall built by Mitch McConnell. So while we count all the deeds of fair play performed by the current occupant of the White House and the Republican senate over the last 3.5 years, let’s not be surprised when upcoming proceedings attempting to replace RBG are met with a vicious, bloodthirsty response from Democrats. When this occurs, address your complaints to McConnell. John Horgdal Blaine The Editor: Everyone has the right to express their opinion, and I don’t condone vandalizing political signs. However, it would be helpful to clarify what brand of socialism you abhor. Democrats don’t support autocratic socialism. Democratic socialism, which Bernie Sanders advocates and Biden does not, is one that promotes economic freedom, health care for all, a living wage, education, affordable housing and a clean environment. As Harry Truman stated, “Socialism is a scare word they have hurled at every advance the people have made in the last 20 years.” He also said that socialism is what they called public power, social security, farm price supports, bank deposit insurance, free and independent labor organizations. “Socialism is their name for almost anything that helps all the people.” Then there’s the kind of socialism for the wealthy. Jared Kushner received about $800 million in federally-backed debt to buy apartments in Maryland and Virginia – (See Letters, next page)
October 8 - 14, 2020 • thenorthernlight.com
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Your six-word Covid-19 memoirs
Are you still watching? Continue watching. Narkunas, Birch Bay Crazy times love hope inspiration kindness Kris Lankhaar, Blaine I’ve played a lot of golf! Timothy Howe, Blaine Bible up, pray up, trust up. Delores Carter, Blaine
Letters... From previous
under very favorable terms. Profit projections for these investments were overly optimistic, meaning that us taxpayers would be on the hook for much of this money if Kushner Companies default. The never-ending push by the Republican party to eliminate Social Security and Medicare continues under the Trump administration. Such is their definition of socialism. I am more worried about a president who won’t commit to a peaceful transition, who refuses to renounce white supremacists and a party that has taken voter suppression to a new level, readying slates of Trump electors in states where he loses, overriding the will of the voters. I fear a party discrediting vote-bymail and that has lawyers in multiple states filing lawsuits limiting citizens’ right to vote – all actions taken by dictatorships. The website propublica.org, under “Electionland 2020” has more. In the middle of a pandemic, with millions having lost their jobs and health insurance, thousands of small businesses closing, large corporations (including Boeing) announcing thousands of layoffs, Mitch McConnell prioritizes pushing his third extreme right-wing justice on the bench, over the needs of the people. These are the things that keep me up at night, not the scare tactics of a callous political party. Carol Kemp Birch Bay The Editor: Evergreen Progress 2020, a Republican PAC, is funding attack ads and flyers in our area against Democratic candidates for state office, stating that Sharon Shewmake is in favor of defunding the police. Ms. Shewmake herself issued a statement on September 16, 2020 addressing this topic. She makes it clear that she does not plan to, nor has she ever supported removing police funding from the budget; in fact, she has voted for budgets that include funding for
Covid disappear. You ruined my summer. Debbie Drorbaugh, Blaine
More time with 45 year bride Mark Simard, Blaine
Wearing a mask is not socialism. Jeff Sterling, Birch Bay
Neighborhood walks seeing teddybears in windows Debbie Earl, no address
Non-huggers: “Six feet, eh? No problem!” Kelly Tuski, Blaine
No family reunion this year. Heartbroken. Jeanne Halsey, Blaine
Less is worth more, division included. Jamie Gerity, Birch Bay
Psychotherapist I am. Please send help. Stephanie McDonald, Blaine
Border closed. Cannot work. Am broke. Elizabeth Gaines, Blaine
Worst time ever to declare bisexuality Pasha Marlowe, North Yarmouth, Maine
“Connection problems” pretty much covers it. Riley Sweeney, Lynden
A plague on all our houses. Amy Pokras, Oak Park, Illinois
Enjoy life, it’s short, choose happiness. Allison Luna, Blaine
Following science. Showing empathy. Staying home. Jael Komac, Ferndale
law enforcement. Ms. Shewmake states: “I hear from law enforcement that they want more mental health resources available to the public … This is one way the state can be part of the solution.” She is working closely with Whatcom County’s top law enforcement officer, prosecutor Eric Richey, to fund Whatcom County’s crisis stabilization center. She believes that supporting law enforcement in doing their important and dangerous work to keep us safe can co-exist with supporting Black Lives Matter and everyone’s First Amendment right to political speech and opinions. I agree with Ms. Shewmake that these values and goals can, and should, co-exist. You can read her statement at bit.ly/34KFsDh. Please visit Ms. Shewmake’s site at Sharon4Whatcom.com to learn more about her stand on the issues and her goals for helping Whatcom County to thrive. Jennifer Plombon Blaine The Editor: Friends of Birch Bay Library (FOBBL) need our help. FOBBL is participating in a Community Thrives fundraising challenge to raise money towards their building project by Friday, October 16. If they meet their goal, the project will be considered for a variety of grant awards. The library project needs those grant dollars badly. Donations must go through their MightyCause donation page to qualify for the grant awards. The minimum donation is $6, including the processing fee. Points are gained by the number of individual donors so please consider sharing this with your family, friends and social media. Thank you for supporting the Birch Bay Library Project: Acommunitythrives.mightycause. com/story/Fobbl. Al Krause Blaine
Please send letters to letters@thenorthernlight.com no later than noon on Monday.
Gardening, crafting, reading, volunteering, appreciating life. Jael Komac, Ferndale My sweet pets make quarantine bearable. Jennifer Plombon, Blaine Broken hearted, steadfast in the chaos. Melissa McCall, Blaine Cooperation, outreach, vaccines, immunizing, defeats ... it! Silva Gore, Blaine Lost my job. And my mother-in-law. Laura Sherret, St. Thomas, Ontario
I wheeze, infected with
Blaine United Church of Christ
So, what is the big deal? Diana C. Horan, Blaine Looking out my window ... nature survives. Maggie Blackburn, Blaine Retiring 2021. Moving to Blaine, Washington! Nancy Braun, McMinnville, Oregon I survived quarantine, with my ex. Laura Swan, Saturna, B.C. Had to deal with stupid people. Steve Bawn, Blaine
(See Memoirs, page 13)
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.
"Where friendly people gather and become family"
Sunday Services 10:30 am esus
pandemic loneliness. Jonathan Watson, Davao City, Philippines
Schools closed, so much to learn. Connie Taylor, Blaine
Thursday, October 8 9:00am – Park and
didn’t turn people away
Cemetery Board Meeting
2pm – Public Works Advisory
J
Supposedly, Ernest Hemingway was once challenged to write a story in just six words. His response? “For sale: Baby shoes. Never worn.” We asked our readers to tell us, in just six words, about their lives and experiences during the Covid-19 pandemic. Here’s what you sent:
Committee Meeting *CANCELLED* 6:00pm – Planning Commission Meeting
Neither do we. (360) 332-6906 885 4th St. • Blaine, WA 98230 Pastor Sandy Wisecarver
Monday, October 12 4:30pm – Study Session – Budget Workshop
The Immigration Law Firm •• U.S. U.S. green greencards cards/ /naturalization naturalization •• Work / investor visas Inadmissibility waivers TN (NAFTA) work permits •• Denied entry waivers U.S. Citizenship •• Removal hearingsclaims • NEXUS appeals
360-332-7100 360-332-7100
6:00pm – City Council Meeting Tuesday, October 13 8am – Blaine Tourism Advisory Committee 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
www.blaineimmigration.com• •435 435Martin MartinSt., St., Suite Suite2010 1010 ••Blaine, www.blaineimmigration.com Blaine,WA WA
Leonard atLaw Law LeonardD.M. D.M.Saunders, Saunders, Attorney Attorney at
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The Northern Light • October 8 - 14, 2020
42nd Legislative District candidates campaign amid Covid-19 By Grace McCarthy Across party lines, candidates are facing the obstacle of campaigning amid a global pandemic. They share similar concerns, from fundraising to safely connecting with voters. The Northern Light talked with the four candidates running for positions in Legislative District 42; from TikTok videos to drive-through meet-and-greets, they have pushed boundaries of creativity to catch voters’ attention. Sharon Shewmake, 42nd Legislative District Democratic incumbent who is running for a second term, brainstormed neighborhood Bingo and mur-
s Sharon Shewmake der mystery parties after seeing what caught the attention of her students at Western Washington
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Ecology invites comments on documents for Sea K Fish Cleanup Site DOCUMENTS REVIEW OPTIONS: • Ecology’s website: bit.ly/Ecology-SeaKFish • Ecology’s Bellevue office: 3190 160th Ave SE, Bellevue, WA By appointment, call 425-649-7239 nwro_public_request@ecy.wa.gov • Ecology’s Bellingham office: For document review assistance, please contact: Ian Fawley, Outreach Specialist Ian.Fawley@ecy.wa.gov 425-324-5901 Submit Comments: • Online: bit.ly/Ecology-SeaKFish-Comments • By mail: Cris Matthews, Site Manager Department of Ecology Toxics Cleanup Program 913 Squalicum Way, Unit 101 Bellingham, WA 98225 Phone: 360-255-4379 Email: Cris.Matthews@ecy.wa.gov To request ADA accommodation or materials in a format for the visually impaired, visit: https://ecology.wa.gov/accessibility, call Ecology at 360-255-4400, Relay Service 711, or TTY 877-833-6341.
The Department of Ecology invites you to comment on an agreed order (legal agreement) and a public participation plan for the Sea K Fish cleanup site (Site) at the Blaine Harbor. The Port of Bellingham (Port) operates Blaine Harbor and manages the Sea K Fish property under an agreement with the Department of Natural Resources.
University, where she is an economics professor. “It’s wonderful to invite more people and make it more accessible,” Shewmake said. “I think it’ll be a mix of in-person and online in the future.” These successes didn’t come without a few flopped ideas, said Shewmake, who was able to find her new campaigning groove in a mix of Zoom events and, eventually, meeting with groups of five masked people. “We’ve had a lot of experimenting with various levels of success,” said Shewmake, noting online fundraisers took more preparation that meant accommodating shortened attention spans from her online participants. Shewmake has also started making parody TikToks to inform voters about topics relevant to her campaign. It started with a parody TikTok video about filing day to Dolly Parton’s “Nine to Five” song, which she’s expanded to videos supporting pro-choice and voter turnout. Shewmake said she saw a lot of people turn to the app to see each other’s experiences during the pandemic. “I think it’s really hard to know what goes on in the state legislature,” she said. “I try to be silly but I also really try to be educational as well.” With legislative duties and concern for constituents, Shewmake said how the pandemic would take a toll on her campaign was the last thing on her mind. “We didn’t know what was going to happen with the campaign but I’m willing to roll with it, be creative and find solutions,” Shewmake said. “My concern has always been for the people who are impacted so I don’t know if I had a huge emotional response to the campaign side.” Jennifer Sefzik, a high school debate coach and small business owner running against Shewmake as a Republican, said she has focused on safely meeting voters in person instead of through Zoom.
The contamination is the result of past petroleum storage and fish oil processing operations. The contaminant levels in soil and groundwater are potentially harmful and must be addressed under Washington’s cleanup law, the Model Toxics Control Act (MTCA): • Light non-aqueous phase liquid (NAPL) • Gasoline, diesel, and oil-range hydrocarbons • Benzene, toluene, ethylbenzene, and xylene compounds (BTEX) The following documents are available for review and comment from Oct. 12 - Nov. 10, 2020: • Agreed Order: legal agreement between Ecology and the Port that requires the Port to characterize the Site (Remedial Investigation), evaluate cleanup options (Feasibility Study), and create a draft Cleanup Action Plan. • Public Participation Plan: document that explains how people can participate in the cleanup process. Online Site Tour: • View a virtual Site tour with informational videos created by RE Sources: www.re-sources.org/SeaKFish • This product is funded through a Public Participation Grant from Ecology.
Comments Accepted October 12 – November 10, 2020
s Jennifer Sefzik Sefzik doorbells three to four times a week for a couple hours at a time. She said she follows the same guidelines as the U.S. Census Bureau, wears a mask, allows 8-10 feet of distance and gives the choice to residents to open the door. “My favorite part of the campaign is getting to hear peo-
ple with concerns, seeing what they’re thinking,” she said. “People want to talk. We’ve all been through so much these last few months. We’re all grieving the loss of normalcy.” Sefzik said she realized when businesses and schools closed in March that it would affect campaigning so she leaned into her marketing background to reach voters. “I had to figure out how to be relevant,” she said. “I reconsidered and became more intentional with my social media platform.” Sefzik began a “behind closed doors” series on her Facebook and website that highlights stories from voters she’s met, like a Birch Bay man from El Salvador who told her about moving to the U.S. 30 years ago to work. She’s also attended drivethrough meet-and-greet and sign pickups that allows Sefzik to talk with voters from a safe distance. Sefzik said she was excited for the September 19 opening of a second Whatcom County Republicans office in Ferndale. Although she won’t have office hours, Sefzik plans to visit while people call voters there.
have to spend as much time driving around to meetings if we can do it at home from computers. I think that may be how we do business in the future.” Van Werven said she was happily surprised this year with record fundraising. “I’m so grateful for all the people who have stuck with me and have given above and beyond, even as they have in the past,” Van Werven said. “I thought fundraising would be my biggest challenge but I think there’s a lot of energy and enthusiasm and people have really risen to the occasion.”
s Alicia Rule
s Luanne Van Werven Luanne Van Werven, the Republican incumbent running for Legislative District 42, Position 1, said she’s increased calling voters this year to adapt, and will focus her digital and mail outreach in the last month of campaigning. Van Werven, along with the other candidates, said she prefers meeting voters in person because that’s more relaxed and helps her better understand the challenges they face. “We’ve been surprised at the positive response to doorbelling and I think a lot of people have been isolated at home and I think they’re pleased to be able to talk with people face-to-face so the response has been positive,” she said. Van Werven said it would save money if elected officials didn’t have to drive to Olympia as often. She said she’s only traveled once since the session ended in March, in contrast to the usual couple of trips per month. “We’re learning some interesting things about how we campaign or about how we relate with people,” Van Werven said. “I think about this whole idea of Zoom meetings, maybe I don’t
Alicia Rule is a Blaine city councilmember, social worker and small business owner running as a Democrat against Van Werven for Legislative District 42 Position 1. “Covid has impacted every part of this campaign,” she said. “Never in a million years would I have ever imagined when I decided to run for office that we would be facing a pandemic, let alone campaigning in it.” Rule said she believes it’s harder as a challenger to campaign with the barriers of a pandemic but she’s used phone calls to meet voters. Working remotely means the playroom in Rule’s home has been converted to a home campaign office. “I might be the only candidate who has an air hockey table in the back of my home office,” she said. Rule said she doesn’t see campaigning from home necessarily as a negative because she’s able to show her children a perspective of campaigning they otherwise wouldn’t see. “An upside is my conversations are so authentic,” Rule said. “They always would be, but there’s something disarming about the reality of working out of your house and having your kids around.” Like the other candidates, Rule said she’s working to create connections with Whatcom County residents during a time when social distancing has meant more than standing sixfeet apart. “My least favorite thing to do is to give any sort of campaign speech over Zoom because you can’t feel anything coming back,” she said. “You just have to hope that you’re reading the audience right.”
October 8 - 14, 2020 • thenorthernlight.com
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PeaceHealth hospital warns of phone scams PeaceHealth has received reports of recent phone scams impacting patients in Whatcom, Skagit and San Juan counties, the hospital network said in a press release. Scammers are pretending to be from PeaceHealth or other health agencies and attempting to steal personal information over the phone. In the phone calls, the scammers may already have some personal information they collected through other sources to appear legitimate. Another tactic the scammers may use is to manipulate the caller ID to appear that the call is coming from PeaceHealth, the press release said. PeaceHealth wants patients to know that it would never pressure them to provide personal information. If you receive a suspicious call, hang up immediately and call your healthcare provider’s office
directly to verify if there is a legitimate need for any information. To avoid scams, PeaceHealth recommends the following: – Consider letting unexpected calls or numbers you don’t recognize go to voicemail. – Do not engage the scammer or call them back if you receive a suspicious voicemail. – Never give personal or financial data, such as your Social Security number or credit card account number, to callers you don’t know. If they say they have the information and just need you to confirm it, that’s a trick. – If you feel threatened, call the police. – You’re encouraged to report any phone scam activity to the Federal Trade Commission. Read more information from the FTC on how to recognize phone scams here: bit.ly/36TPvsn.
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The Northern Light • October 8 - 14, 2020
Active S eniors
Blaine mail carrier retires after nearly 30 years on the job By Grace McCarthy On September 30, Cathy Dent, the last person who had worked at the old Blaine Post Office on H Street, retired as senior mail carrier. She received flowers and cards from residents with whom she’d created lasting friendships, a potluck from colleagues and came home to balloons and flowers from her husband on the last day of her 29-year career. “It was an awesome day,” she said. “It was quite a bit of a surprise a lot of people were that emotional.”
Dent applied for a job at the old Blaine Post Office in 1991 after seeing a “help wanted” sign in the building, now home to the Blaine Police Department. She and her husband, Wayne, had just moved from White Rock and she was intrigued by the self-sufficiency of the job. Dent said she doesn’t remember her first day at the Blaine Post Office because she was too busy learning the 700 addresses she needed to memorize for her route, which has now split into seven other routes. “There’s so many names and
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numbers and streets,” she said. “Most people have these weird postal nightmares where you go to the wrong building.” For the past decade, Dent said her route started and ended on Bay Road, making a loop from south of the C Shop, Grandview
Road and BP Refinery. She’s seen changes including whole new subdivisions, increased downtown activity and more young families and professionals moving to the area. “It’s more of the longevity,” Dent said. “Watching everything change over the
long haul.” Dent said it’s not one memory that stands out, but a collection of little memories, like the time a couple framed a note Dent wrote when she noticed their dog died, or the cups of coffee she receives on a cold day.
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is proper nutrition Q: Why important as we get older? well is important for seniors A: Eating because nutritional needs change.
“The actual job hasn’t changed that much; it’s just gotten a lot heavier.” - Cathy Dent When she first started, Dent said the post office only had five routes and she’d deliver mail in her baby blue Ford Fairmont. As online shopping became more popular, letters and magazines were replaced by parcels. “They always told us when computers came in mail is going to end,” she said. “The actual job hasn’t changed that much; it’s just gotten a lot heavier.” Dent said she chose to retire shortly after her 60th birthday because of the increased wear on her shoulders and back, especially during the holiday season. Heavy parcels from online shopping added strain to previous injuries, including a fall that took nine months to recover. Dent said residents don’t always see the effort that goes into delivering mail. Carriers sort packages for hours in the morning before delivery, where dark roads and wet weather can cause nerve-wracking conditions, she said. “Most of the people who come here to work, most, don’t make it,” Dent said. “It’s a lot harder than it looks.” In her retirement, Dent said she’s looking forward to gardening and seeing family across the border when the pandemic is over. “I watched some people’s kids grow up. You get to know their dog’s names. When I’ve been injured or when my dad died, there was lots of cards and lots of caring,” she said. “There are a lot of people I’m going to miss. I’m going to have to stop by and say hi.”
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The Northern Light • October 8 - 14, 2020
Hornets ... From page 1
invasive species, the study found. After confirming the pest’s identity, Bovenkamp returned and emptied a can of wasp spray before scooping the dead hornet into a container. “I thought that would be the end of my murder hornet adventures,” he said. But that evening, Bovenkamp saw another one pestering a paper wasp nest above their grill. His wife, Debbie, made two traps from the WSDA website and caught a hornet the next day. “At that point, we were thinking if we’re seeing this many in this short of time, we thought we might not be the only ones,” he said. Debbie Bovenkamp reported the sighting to WSDA that Saturday, September 26, thinking they’d just be “pins on a map.” But by 1 p.m. Monday, WSDA entomologist Chris Looney pulled into the couple’s country property and told them it was the best lead the agency had. It wasn’t until Looney was preparing to leave the property on Tuesday, September 29 that he and Bovenkamp saw a hornet buzz by. Looney caught the live hornet in a butterfly net and by the next morning, seven WSDA representatives were at Bovenkamp’s home preparing to track the hornet back to its nest – a culmination of months of effort. The scientists placed the hornet in ice to slow its metabolism long enough to attach a radio tag that could follow the hornet back to its nest, suspected to be within 2 miles of Bovenkamp’s property. The tag, tracked via a cellphone app, worked properly but the glue didn’t dry fast enough, sticking to the hornet’s wing and making it unable to fly, said Sven Spichiger, WSDA entomologist during an October 2 news conference. The entomologists then attempted to tie the tag to the hornet with thread, similar to how European scientists track the Asian hornet, a different invasive species. “We absolutely believe we are going to get more live hornets,” said Spichiger, of the hornets believed to be workers. “We are supremely confident that in the next couple of weeks, we’ll be able to snag one, if not more, of them.” The WSDA response team added 30 live traps to the Bovenkamp’s neighborhood, an area previously outside its concentrated trapping grid. While knocking on neighbors’ doors for permission to hang the bottle traps, agency staff found a dead hornet in a street lamp. They were also given a doorbell camera photo of a hornet and heard a third report of the hornet found dead on a porch, which the resident discarded. “We have basically six specimens in the last week,” Spichiger said. “We, of course, believe we are dealing with a nest and we will be watching that particular area pretty close.” For months, researchers had looked for any sign of even one murder hornet. Seeing one after another appear in east Blaine became a victory of sorts. “There were a lot of emotions for our staff this week,” said Karla Salp, WSDA public engagement
specialist. “We feel very close because we have all these detections in this little pocket.” These sightings bring the total count to 15 confirmed Asian giant hornets trapped in Washington, all of which have been found in Whatcom County, Salp said. Since the most recent sightings were less than two miles from the U.S./Canada border, B.C. officials have added six more traps just north of the border. There hasn’t been a confirmed hornet sighting in B.C. since one was found in Langley in May. Paul van Westendorp, provincial apiculturist for B.C., said he doesn’t have an exact number on traps in B.C. but they are surveying three areas: Nanaimo on Vancouver Island, where a nest was eradicated last September; the Cowichan Valley, south of Nanaimo, where there were four credible sightings in June; and the Fraser Valley from White Rock to Aldergrove. “These hornets are not respectful of any border,” Van Westendorp said. “They just fly wherever they’d like to go.” DNA sequencing tested last winter suggests the hornet found in Blaine in December and the Nanaimo nest had separate origins, South Korea and Japan, respectively, Van Westendorp said. A different large hornet species from Asia, he said, was also found in Vancouver in the summer of 2019. This hints that the Asian giant hornets could have been introduced at separate times, although van Westendorp noted the DNA sample is not a foolproof indicator because the hornets can move from the area where they are predominantly located. “The question can be raised, do we do enough to control and check for invasive species that could have huge implications to our forests?” he said. Spichiger said the recent sightings confirmed the hornets prey on yellow jackets, paper wasps and other native pollinators besides the honeybee, which could have a greater impact on the environment. The gravity of widescale impact is currently hard to determine, Salp added. Residents have spotted the hornets checking for wasp nests under building structures such as carports and the edge of roofs, said Salp, who recommends people keep a special eye on those places. Because all of the 15 Asian giant hornets trapped in Washington have been found in Whatcom County, local beekeepers dread the coming slaughter phase. Although there have been no beehives attacked this year, Ted and Dorothy McFall are still reeling from discovering an entire colony slaughtered last November. The hobbyist beekeepers of McFall Beeyard in Custer found thousands of decapitated bees from one of their 30 colonies, a few weeks before the first hornet was found in Blaine. “It’s pretty unfortunate we happen to live in the one part of the United States where they are, and to have the bait,” said Ted McFall, who has been beekeeping his entire life. McFall said it’s hard to estimate how much revenue they lost from losing their strongest colony be-
s One of the Asian giant hornets found near Burk Road next to a yellow jacket.
Photo courtesy WSDA.
cause they could have made many uses from the colony over the years, including breeding queens and pollinating farmers’ crops. He worries their bees could get hit again this year, but worse, if there are two hornet nests in the area, which WSDA officials say is likely after the Birch Bay sightings this summer. Officials also haven’t ruled out a third nest in Custer after a male hornet was trapped in late July. The McFalls said they wouldn’t have a ‘fighting chance’ without the support of the community, most of whom won’t be affected directly. “It’s comforting. I’m glad we’re not alone in this fight,” Dorothy McFall said. “It’s like the beginning of a forest fire. You try to put it out early before it gets too late.” WSDA created an emergency line for Whatcom County beekeepers who experience hives under attack, similar to 911. WSDA officials emphasized that beekeepers calling the 360/902-1880 num-
s Philip Bovenkamp of east Blaine holds up a hornet WSDA entomologists allowed his daughter to keep for a school project. Bovenkamp is one of two people in North America with a hornet, he said. Photo by Grace McCarthy
ber must note the direction the hornets fly, and any other detail that could help tracking efforts. In the days following his hornet escapade, Bovenkamp said he’s taking extra walks around his yard and chatting with neighbors about the latest topic there. His daughter, Jillian, is now one of two people in North America with an Asian giant hornet, which WSDA allowed her to keep for her school project. She keeps her school project in their outdoor freezer, next to the white chocolate raspberry ice cream and frozen berries. “The department of agriculture is going above and beyond. They’re up here all week trying to track those things down, but they need our help,” Bovenkamp said. “Every report we get helps them
zero in a little bit closer.” Walking through his backyard to point out where the hornets were spotted, Bovenkamp cocked his head and paused. “I thought I just saw one, a hornet,” he said. “It buzzed around the top and just took off. It’s the first time I’ve seen one since Saturday morning but I’m fairly confident that was one.” To report an Asian giant hornet sighting, visit bit.ly/34akL4H. People without internet can also call the hotline, 1-800/443-6684 but this will take longer for WSDA staff to respond due to a heavy call volume. Beekeepers with hives under attack are urged to call the emergency line, 360/902-1880. For more information, visit agr. wa.gov/hornets.
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phone:WA (360) 332-6300 8139 Guide Meridian • Lynden,
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.
Full-time and part-time preschool options." (last ad 39763.pdf).
CASCAFL912J8
• Hardwood • Prefinished • Laminate InstallatIon & RefInIshIng
360-224-6466
Licensed • Bonded And InSured
COMPLETE REMODELS
Specializing in Renovations & New Construction Kitchens & Baths • Custom & Spec Homes Decks, Garages & Additions
(360) 305-2592
completeremodels@yahoo.com www.completeremodels.net COMPLR*006PP
Integrity Contracting N.W. LLC
Child Care MORE Smiles Learning Center
OPEN: Mon-Fri 6am - 6pm
Now Enrolling 1 month - 12 years old Full-time and part-time preschool options.
Call today! 360-332-7135 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.
N
Mark St. Germaine
Quality construction since 1987 Licensed & bonded W
Lawn Mowing • Yard Clean-Up Tree Trimming • Pruning Weeding • Roof Moss Removal Pressure Washing • Bark & Gravel Hedging & Hauling Free Estimates • Licensed & Insured YARD CLEAN-UP flower beds, berry removal, shrub/hedge trimming, beauty bark, gravel, power washing, gutter cleaning, hauling. 360-820-0446.
8-23-18 replace word-
enrolling Geting..."Now 360-332-1777 for listed! Fall.
Commercial & Residential
Lic #2BROTB1945DA
AUTO GLASS
Louis Auto Glass
Pro Lawn Care & Landscaping
360-595-3483
(360) 332 - 6300
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.
Landscaping
Licensed & Bonded
www.twobrothersmasonry.com
360-354-2129
СКРОИТЕ ШВЕЮ требуемую шить подушки и драпы на основании контракта. Опыт со слепым предпочтенным hemmer. Телефон 360-3123173.
C
360-746-4902
icnwllc@comcast.net 3 Year Guarantee on all work No Job Too Big or Small Free Estimates
I New Construction • Remodeling • Siding Windows & Doors • Fencing • Drywall • Painting Lic # CCINTEGCN869DD
Electric
HOTLINE ELECTRIC Service/Construction Residential - Commercial Industrial Licensed • Bonded • Insured HOTLIE*914J7
360-393-8246
Legal NOTICE TO CREDITORS In the Superior Court of the State of Washington, In and for the County of Whatcom, In re the Estate of Roberta Lee Smith. Probate No. 20-4-0039437 Judge: David Freeman. 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: 10/1/2020. Personal Representative: David Schultz. Attorney for the Estate: KEITH A. BODE, WSBA #7791 314 Fifth Street, P.O. box 688, Lynden, WA 98264-0688, Tel. (360) 354-5021
AD DEADLINE: Oct. 12
$16 for 15 words 25¢ for each additional word
Delivered to every home in the 98230 zip code.
11
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u]
PLUS, your ad appears ONLINE FOR FREE at thenorthernlight.com/classifieds
Plus Newstands in: Bellingham • Ferndale Custer • Birch Bay Semiahmoo • Blaine
360-332-1777 sales@thenorthernlight.com
Legal STATE OF WASHINGTON, WHATCOM COUNTY SUPERIOR COURT, In Re the Matter of: JOAN DUCHENE (DOB: 12/24/35) A Vulnerable Adult (Protected Person), RICHARD DUCHENE (DOB: 12/31/71), Respondent (Restrained Person), NO. 20-2-00749-37. Summons by Publication (SMPB). The State of Washington to: RICHARD DUCHENE (Respondent). You Are Summoned to appear at a hearing on November 9, 2020 at 9:00 a.m., at Whatcom Superior Court, located at 311 Grand Avenue, Bellingham, Washington, 98225. The date of the hearing is 60 days past the date of the first publication of this summons. At the hearing, you will have the opportunity to respond to the petition that alleges that the respondent threatened or committed acts of abandonment, abuse, exploitation, neglect, or financial exploitation against the alleged vulnerable adult listed above. The petition requests relief that will restrain the respondent from further such threats or acts, from coming near or having any contact with the vulnerable adult, from transferring the vulnerable adult’s or the respondent’s property. It may also require an accounting of the alleged vulnerable adult’s property. If you fail to appear, the court may grant the relief requested in the petition and enter an order for protection that lasts up to five years. A copy of the petition, the temporary order for protection, if one has been entered against the respondent, the notice of hearing, and/or the notice to vulnerable adult has been filed with the clerk of this court. Dated August 12, 2020 Petitioner: If you wish to keep your residential addr confidential, you may list an alternate address for receiving legal documents. ANNIE HONRATH, WSBA #46789 Assistant Attorney General 2211 Rimland Avenue, Suite 325 Bellingham, WA 98226 Summons by Publication (SMPB) WPF VA-9.030 Mandatory (11/2011) - CR 4, RCW 74.34.120, .135, RCW 4.28.110 ATTORNEY GENERAL OF WASHINGTON Regional Services Division 2211 Rimland Drive, Suite 325 Bellingham, WA 98226 (360) 676-2037
SUPERIOR COURT OF WASHINGTON IN AND FOR THE COUNTY OF WHATCOM, No. 20-2-00615-37. SUMMONS BY PUBLICATION. Green Truck Financial, LLC, Plaintiff, v. Edwin Calvin Torrence Jones. Edwin Calvin Torrence Jones, is hereby summoned to appear within sixty days after the date of the first publication of this summons, to wit, within sixty days after the tenth (10) day of September, and defend the above entitled action in the above entitled court, and answer the complaint of the plaintiff Green Truck Financial, LLC, and serve a copy of your answer upon the undersigned attorneys for plaintiff, at their office below stated; and in case of Edwin Calvin Torrence Jones’s, failure so to do, judgment will be rendered against Edwin Calvin Torrence Jones according to the demand of the complaint, which has been filed with the clerk of said court. The purpose of this lawsuit is to obtain a judgment for Defendant’s breach of contract and for the collection of monies due and owing. This is an attempt to collect a debt and any information obtained will be used for that purpose. Plaintiff’s attorneys: Andersson Cross Border Law Corp., R. Dallan Bunce, WSBA #47213, 1305 11th St. STE 304. Bellingham, WA 98225.
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12
The Northern Light • October 8 - 14, 2020
Real Estate
BLAINE, BIRCH BAY & SEMIAHMOO
Windermere Real Estate/Whatcom Inc. 360.371.5100 8105 Birch Bay Square St. I-5 Exit 270, Blaine
SEMIAHMOO LISTINGS
9540 Semiahmoo Pkwy #D28 MLS#1532325 $38,000
Semiahmoo Marina! History, majesty, mystery...what a great place to moor your boat! Semiahmoo’s historic water tower stands sentinel. To the East, majestic Mt. Baker...and mystery, why are all those cars cruising Marine Drive in White Rock?! Semiahmoo Marina is only 16 nautical miles from the legendary, mystical San Juan Islands. Canada’s Gulf Islands and the Inside Passage are favorite nearby destinations. Golf, tennis, and swimming are available for a fee @ Semiahmoo Golf & Country Club.
Linda Kiens 360-815-6638
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.
BLAINE LISTINGS
5440 Wood Duck Loop MLS #1599646 $819,000
Classic craftsman in Semiahmoo--peek-a-boo view! Main floor living with ample custom features. Stainless kitchen counters, handmade cabinets, & live edge granite counter bar top. Red oak hardwood through main floor--plush carpet in the bedrooms. Enormous master bath with soaker tub & walk-in shower. 3rd garage bay is wired for 220, perfect shop space! Spacious bonus room makes for the perfect office/flex space. Completely covered outdoor sunroom makes outdoor entertaining ideal.
Kathy Stauffer 360-815-4718
3388 Haynie Road MLS #1628098 $589,000
A wonderful opportunity awaits… private + peaceful equestrian property set back from the road, updated 4 bedroom/2.5 bathroom house, massive 30x60’ heated shop with power + 2 stall horse barn! Home features vaulted ceilings, modern updated flooring, cabinets, quartz counters, s/s appliances & gas fireplace. Zip down Valley View for quick & easy I-5 access or US/CAN border access. Don’t delay, this one checks all the boxes and won’t last long!
Leah Crews 360-305-4747
307 Whitetail Loop MLS #1651777 $489,000
Welcome to 307 Whitetail Loop one of 16 in the circle with paved roads and walking sidewalks. Looking for brand new then look no further, get inside & take a look at this 4-bedroom, 2.5 bath home, excellent floor plan with the master on the main floor. Large open floor plan vaulted ceiling with very large rooms and natural sunlight, fully landscaped yard, all stainless high-end appliances. Quartz counter tops. Get in and take a look you will love it. Close to school, border & I-5.
Christy Imperio 360-201-4100
736 3rd Street MLS #1577522 $179,500
One of the last remaining opportunities to build out a corner commercial lot in this section of booming downtown Blaine! Zoned CD-Market 48, flexible zoning allows for street level commercial space + upper level residential space (up to 48’ high). New project may qualify for multi-family tax exemption, buyer to verify. Bonus: City of Blaine conditionally approved plans (available upon request) for street level commercial & upper level residential modern building, an approximately $20K value!
Jen Freeman 360-815-0803
B I R C H B AY L I S T I N G S
6885 Holeman Avenue MLS #1645390 $329,000
Don’t miss this spectacular north facing waterfront view lot on Point Whitehorn. Situated amongst upscale homes, this lot overlooks Birch Bay and the Canadian mountains. The site features waterfront access for you to enjoy clamming, crabbing, beach combing, kayaking, and everything else Birch Bay has to offer. Build your dream home and take advantage of the gentle slope with a daylight basement to capitalize on the beautiful view and great evening sunsets.
Matt Berry 360-389-0104
7714 Birch Bay Dr Unit #405 7714 Birch Bay Drive #402 $619,900 8284 Shintaffer Road 8239 Cedar Avenue 7450 Sunset Drive MLS #1664824 MLS #1597528 Spectacular sunsets, deluxe top floor wa- $749,000 MLS #1668032 $295.000 MLS #1671430 $220,000 MLS #1625343 $429,000
Enjoy sunsets from this deluxe top floor waterfront condo. This sunny west facing residence features 9ft ceilings, custom cabinets, slab granite counters, tile & wood flooring & open concept living area. Exceptional quality throughout this 2 bedroom, 2 bath condo with elevator access. Luxurious bathrooms include radiant heat tile flooring & jetted tub. A beautiful extra deck for entertaining & 1 assigned covered parking. Deeded beach access. Amazing ocean view...start living the dream!
Randy Weg 360-305-5704
terfront condo. Sunny west facing, fully furnished home features 9 ft ceilings, 3 bedroom, 2.5 bath, custom cabinets, slab granite counters, tile & wood flooring. Exceptional quality throughout, recent remodeling. Lower level has its own entrance for use as an office or artist studio. Luxurious baths include radiant heat, tile flooring & jetted tubs. 2 decks for entertaining,,2 assigned covered parking spots, deeded beach access & Promenade. Amazing ocean views.
Billy Brown 360-220-7175
Remodeled Ocean view turn-key Beach Home with panoramic view. Interest in 82 feet of deeded private beach, and great sun exposure, on large 19,948 sq.ft. home site. 2150 sq. ft. with 650 sq. ft. unfinished workshop area at the garden level. Features 2 bedrooms, office / den, great room, kitchen, utility room, wall of windows and access to 600 sq.ft deck area with natural gas fireplace. 650 sq. ft Bedroom suite at the garden level includes kitchen, laundry and 3/4 bath. Enjoy new Birch Bay Berm!
Brian Southwick 360-815-6638
Fantastic Birch Bay & Island views, super cute upgrades & finishes, deeded beach access & community garden adjacent to property. Big sundeck, vinyl windows, new paint, flooring & more. The moment you step inside you realize how special & incredibly well cared for this home is. Ideal showbird getaway & very affordable primary address w/views in heart of booming Birch Bay. Dreamt of escaping to relax at the bay? The best priced & coolest retreat on the market. Furnishings negotiable.
Mike Kent 360-815-3898
A Birch Bay Getaway with a Water View! Enjoy stunning sunsets from this home by the beach. Easy beach access only a short distance away and close to all the amenities Birch Bay has to offer. The home comes fully furnished and has 2 beds/2 bath with an extra-large bonus room that is used as a 3rd bedroom, newer appliances, tankless hot water heater and an amazing back yard with patio and fire pit! The home is Move-In ready and would make a great place for full time living, vacation or rental.
Amy Bremer 360-961-0620
www.windermere.com Rentals - Residential
I’m always available to show you by private appointment all Residential, Commercial, Vacant Land & New Construction Properties!
What is your house worth?
callhugh.johnlscott.com/home-evaluation
or
Call Hugh :
360.371.5800 Hugh Brawford, Managing Broker
Your Local Expert For All Real Estate, Residential Or Commercial Services!
20+ ACRES - $175,000 Homesite on Kickerville with beautiful, meandering Terrell Creek.
PROPERTY MANAGEMENT • Vacation Properties WE DO • Residential Properties ! IT ALL • Commercial Properties
Build your home here!
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!
Call Phill Esau Today!
Nimbus Property Management
360-594-8600 225 G Street, Suite 102
Downtown Blaine (Across from Hill’s Chevron)
www.CallHugh.com
www.NimbusRealEstate.com Rentals - Commercial
NELSON BUILDING 925 Ludwick Ave., Blaine
Near Truck Route & Shopping Mall
LEASE SPACES FOR:
Warehousing & Distribution Manufacturing or Retail Yard Storage for Vehicles Please Call Don Nelson For Availability & Rates
360-332-2743
Email nelsbldg@msn.com
FOR LEASE
Retail/Office Space Ground floor space with fantastic waterfront views of Blaine Harbor!
800 - 1600 s.f. FOR LEASING INFO CALL:
360/332-1777
3-BR, 2-BA HOME Plus 2-car garage, gas, forced heat, like brand new. No pets, no smokers. $2,000/mo. Call 360371-5800. BIRCH BAY VILLAGE 3 BR, 1.5 BA, fenced yard, 1 car garage, shed deck, newly remodeled kitchen w/ SS appliances & granite, Views of Mt Baker and bay, central heat and air. Includes BBV dues. $2000/mo lease + deposit. N/S, pets with approval. 360-7783218. HOUSE NEEDED Responsible ARTress/Healer needs 3 BD house/finished barn in rural Whatcom. Guaranteed rent to $1450. Uncarpeted, mold/wififree. Katannya 360-809-3333
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
October 8 - 14, 2020 • thenorthernlight.com Spontaneous smile; silly sweet so savory. Mary Jane Thompson, Blaine
Friends, family, day by day, embrace Nancy Mayfield Boat, Birch Bay
Memoirs ... From page 5
Maybe tomorrow I will try again. Veronica DeGolier, Blaine
Rather weird in every crazy way! Lonnie Moore, no address
Gardening is my prime pandemic project. Teresa Verde, Blaine
Less is worth more, division included. Jamie Gerity, Bellingham
Not worried, I’ve lived life already. Rex Allison, Blaine
NEWS equals Now Entertainment Will Suffice. Charlotte Benn Sessions, Blaine
He died. Now it doesn’t matter. Melissa Meyer, Puerto Vallarta, Mexico Love my family a lot, but ... Melanie May, Bellingham Making the best of the situation Lola Vankirk, no address Isolated masked breathless fright long enduring Kathy Ernst, no address Discovery, awareness, contemplation, awakening, adaptation, life. M Lynn Morenz, no address My grandkids are missing school terribly! Robin Gray, no address Different ways of showing we care Debbie Jo Johnson Earl, no address Frequent phone visits, know friends better. Donna Robbins, Bellingham Shock, fear, depression, prayer, acceptance, hope Marta Gutierrez Farlin, Blaine
Covid, spring came but no flowers. Grandkids in Canada are still waiting. Unmasked still shop in Lynden Safeway. Jim Brunner, Blaine Masks. My emotions you cannot see. Covid-19. Hospital. You will die alone Covid threatens. Paralyzing society. Covid looms. You treat me like I’m diseased. Schooling. Not optional. For all children Can you imagine? Giving you hugs. Susan Thorpe, Blaine
Trying to keep head above water! Angie Deming Czesak, no address Lack of leadership makes me sad Rex Broward, no address How does mask wearing equal socialism? Jeff Sterling, Birch Bay
Relax and enjoy blessings are instore Karen Bacon, Blaine
Steamed up glasses, mumbled, jumbled words Sandra Anderberg, no address
Flying airplanes much safer than walking Bette Fineman, Blaine
Will you just shut up ... please! Heidi Hutchins, Birch Bay Bored? Not possible. Read and learn. Enjoy nature, go outside, lucky you. Too much complaining, not enough gratitude. Diana C. Horan, Blaine Covid fear. Masks appear. Stay safe L. Shelton, Blaine
I am lost. I am depressed. Karin Redcrow, no address
Another game of Wii bowling, dear? Ross Anderson, Birch Bay
Thank God he is in control Kathy Workentin Richardson, no address
Stress renders me bootless and pant-less. Maggie Maize. no address
The pandemic is truly fake news Rudy Ambrose, Blaine
Then thriving. Now disease. Reboot. Survive. Lynne Shelton, Blaine
OBITUARIES Christine W. Wood (Klaas) January 23, 1946–September 28, 2020 Christine was born in Hanweiler, Germany, in 1946. She passed away peacefully at home, surrounded by loved ones. She had lived in Birch Bay since 2006. Christine was a devoted wife and mother. She received recognition and awards for teaching German language skills to soldiers. She was a retail floor manager for the Walt Disney World Company (EPCOT) and later for Sea World and Discovery Cove. In later years Christine was an entrepreneur, owning a store in Orlando, Florida. Additionally, she worked at various times as the official translator for high profile court cases in Orange County, Florida. She loved gardening, crochet, and taking care of animals. Christine is survived by her husband of 55 years, Gerald Wood of Blaine, her sons Audie (Kathy) Wood of Everson, and Rick Wood of Blaine; grandsons Christopher Wood and Cody Oftedal; granddaughter Mataya Bugg; sisters Ursula Pugh and Evita Klaas; and many more friends and family members. The Wood family extends its gratitude to the Whatcom Hospice Foundation for the kindness and care. Christine will be cremated per her wishes, and a private service will be held for the immediate family.
Ten years to start. Puzzle finished. Ross Anderson, Birch Bay
Thank God I live in America Roy Anderberg, no address
I pay taxes let me in. Anonymous, Canada Only the good people wear masks. Boo! Are you scared, yet? BOO! Be a good sheeple, mask up. We are now a faceless society. Just believe. Roll up your sleeve. Shut up. Don’t ask embarrassing questions. Out with logic, on with lunacy. Mark Aamot, Custer
People Who Can’t Count to Six:
James E. Zell
December 11,1934 – September 23, 2020 James "Jim" Edwin Zell, age 85, passed away on Sept. 23, 2020 in Bellingham. Jim will be dearly missed by the family and friends he leaves behind. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Northwest Baptist Church - 3545 Northwest Ave. Bellingham, WA 98225. To read Jim's full obituary, please visit molesfarewelltributes.com.
BUSINESS & PROFESSIONAL
DIRECTORY
Proud supporters of the Blaine Community!
Loneliness and desperation in hope. Jeanette Graham, Union
2011 Large Business Year of Whatcom County Formerlyof1stthePropane
Keep Full Service • Budget Payment Plan • Tank Installation & Rental Family Owned and Operated Since 1929! Modern Equipment • Safety Checks • Locally Owned & Operated
Louis’
This pandemic is fake news Rudy Ambrose, Blaine Nothing changed. At all. Lame. Jodi Hobbs, Birch Bay
13
Louis Auto Glass
The Only Validated Auto Glass Company 360 332-3121 2163 Nature’s Path Way • Blaine in Whatcom & Skagit
Fill your bottles - Easy RV access
ouis’Auto & Residential Glass Counties.
We Guarantee Your Safety
Spring Special!
Dinner on Us and90 a Can of Glass Cleaner Celebrating years!
with every windshield purchased and installed
SHOW YOUR COMMUNITY SUPPORT!
Windshield Replacement
BELLINGHAMFree Pick up & Delivery Bellingham 1512 N. State St. • 360-734-3840
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.
AD SIZES:
Rock Chip Repairs
407 19th St.
1721 E. College Way
To Our Canadian Friends
3” x 2” - $89 Personal Message Your LOGO here 100 Main St 332-0000
1.5” x 2” $69 Personal Message
VETERANS SALUTE
Your LOGO here 100 Main St 332-0000
Recognizing our local firefighters and law enforcement
Honoring our local veterans
1.5” x 1” - $49
Publishes October 22 Deadline: October 15
Publishes November 5 Deadline: October 29
FIRST RESPONDERS TRIBUTE
Your LOGO here 100 Main St 332-0000
Ad boxes shown are not actual size of ad.
Call Molly today at 360-332-1777 or email sales@thenorthernlight.com
Enjoy Huge Savings with U.S. Prices
www.louisautoglass.com
Must present ad for special. Not valid with any other offers. Expires June 30, 2014.
Dining Guide
Great Authentic Mexican Food 758 Peace Portal • Blaine 360-332-4045
DRAYTON HARBOR OYSTERS Farm Fresh Oysters
Served Raw, Grilled, Fried, Stewed & other delicious Seafood Specialities
Local Craft Beers & Wine
360-656-5958 DraytonHarborOysters.com 685 Peace Portal Dr. • Downtown Blaine
277 G Street • Downtown Blaine
360-392-0955
TheVaultWine.com
TheVaultWine
14
The Northern Light • October 8 - 14, 2020
Games and Puzzles
Coming up Thanksgiving Baskets: Tuesday, November 24. Free, ready-to-cook turkey dinners available for pick-up for families in Blaine, Birch Bay and Custer who are experiencing financial difficulty. Pre-registration Winter Coat Distribution: Winter coats, hats, gloves and socks required by November 13. Info and registration visit the Thanksgiving distributed throughout October. Preregistration required. Visit the coat Basket page on blainecap.org or call 360/383-8444. Sponsored by the page at blainecap.org for info, registration and appointment or call Community Assistance Program. 360/319-0269. Sponsored by the Community Assistance Program. Ongoing: Downtown Harvest Display Contest: Celebrate the season and decorate the town for fall. Decorations must be up by October 11. Blaine Farmers Market: Saturdays, 10 a.m.–2 p.m., Blaine’s G Street Take a photo of your display and email to info@blainechamber.com. Plaza. Local and fresh produce, crafts and goodies. Flea market on the Details at blainechamber.com. last Saturday of the month. Info: blainechamber.com. Please wear masks and follow physical distancing guidelines.
Vinyl Night and Trivia at The Vault: Thursday, October 8, The Vault Wine Bar and Bistro, 277 G Street. This week’s trivia theme: The ‘90s. Music starts at 5 p.m., trivia at 7 p.m. Info: thevaultwine.com.
Blaine Food Bank: 500 C Street. Open Mondays 9 a.m.–noon, Wednesdays 5–7 p.m., and Fridays 9 a.m.–noon. Delivery options available. Info:360/332-6350 or blainefood@hotmail.com.
League of Women Voters Online Forum: Thursday, October 8, 6:30 p.m. Featuring U.S. Congress, District 1. Info: lwvbellinghamwhatcom.org or call 360/734-2366.
The Bridge Food Distribution Program: Fridays 3:30–5 p.m., The Bridge Community Hope Center, 4815 Alderson Road. Registration required at thebridgehope.com or call 360/366-8763. Volunteers welcome.
League of Women Voters Online Forum: Saturday, October 10, 6:30 p.m. Featuring U.S. Congress, District 2 and Whatcom County public utility district commissioner. Info: lwvbellinghamwhatcom.org or call 360/734-2366. Online Gospel Music Worship Service: Sunday, October 11, 10 a.m. Featuring Claudette Dykstra Sterk and the Custer United Methodist Church vocal groups. Visit custerumc.org. “Our Community” Acting and Playwriting Class: Starts October 17. Join Blaine Community Theatre’s new Zoom 8-week Zoom class. Ages 10–13 Mondays 6:30 p.m., Ages 14–17 Mondays 7:30 p.m., Ages 18 and older Thursdays 6–7 p.m. Info and registration at blainecommunitytheater.com. Whatcom County Trip-Or-Treat: Friday, October 30, 3–7 p.m. Just like trick-or-treat, but in your car. Pull up to a location, stay in your vehicle and a volunteer will hand you a goody bag through your window. For more info and participating locations, visit whatcomcountytriportreat.com.
Crossword Answers at thenorthernlight.com
ACROSS 1. Lunar crater
41. Essential oil used as perfume
7. Upstate NY airport (abbr.) 44. Cut into small pieces 45. Mexican agricultural 10. Fruit worker 12. Seventh avatar of 48. Best pitchers Vishnu 49. Benign tumors 13. Organism that grows
17. __ Mahal 18. Backbone 20. Brooklyn hoopster 23. Intervened 24. Extremely angry 25. Indicates position
without air
50. Danish krone
14. Heals
51. Looms above
15. A book has one
DOWN
16. Open
1. Make a map of
30. When you think you’ll get there
17. Twitch
2. Cain and __
31. __ Falls
18. Plant of the mint family
3. Dried-up
32. Bullfighters
19. Soon
4. Corporate exec (abbr.)
35. Born of
21. Witch
5. Trading floor hand gesture
36. Small fishes
22. Long, mournful complaint 27. Killer clown film 28. Keeps us occupied 33. Influential lawyer 34. Formation of concepts 36. Insecticide 37. Swiss river 38. Actress Lucy 39. Unit of g-force 40. Can repel attackers
6. Strongly alkaline solution 7. Yemen capital 8. Military leader (abbr.) 9. Maintains possession of 10. Afternoon show 11. Imaginary being 12. Rearrange 14. Holy person or sage
26. Chinese surname 29. Potato state
38. “Father of chemical warfare” 40. Waste matter 41. Skin disease 42. Scandinavian mythological god 43. __ and haws 44. Villain 45. Tell on 46. Difficulty 47. Not old
The Bridge Clothing Bank Boutique: Open Wednesdays 3–5 p.m. and Fridays 12–5 p.m., The Bridge Community Hope Center, 4815 Alderson Road. Donations by appointment, call 360/366-8763. Blaine Chamber of Commerce Virtual Meetings: First Wednesday, noon. Meeting ID on blainechamber.com. Blaine Library: 610 3rd Street. Curbside holds and pick up and returns. Monday–Friday 10 a.m.–6 p.m., Saturday 10 a.m.–5 p.m. Info 360/305-3600. Meals on Wheels & More: Wednesdays 11:30 a.m.–12:30 p.m., Blaine Senior Center, 763 G Street. Adults 60+ pick up one fresh and six frozen meals. Suggested donation $5 per meal. First come first serve basis. Info: 360/332-8040. Toastmasters Virtual Meetings: Tuesdays 6:30–7:45 p.m. Info: 360/933-1671.
Blaine H.O.R.S.E. Tournament: Saturday and Sunday, November 7 and 8, Birch Bay Activity Center, 7511 Gemini Street. Boys and girls ages 5th grade through high school living in the Blaine School District boundaries. Registration $10 by October 12. Info and registration: bbbparkandrec.org.
Submissions to Coming Up should be sent to calendar@thenorthernlight.com no later than noon on Monday.
Weather
Police Reports September 26, 10:40 a.m.: A Blaine officer responded to an attempted vehicle prowl that occurred Thursday night. The subject did not gain access to the vehicle due to it being locked. The subject did break the driver’s side door handle when trying to gain access to the car. At this time, there is no suspect. September 26, 12:00 p.m.: A woman called police to report someone smeared a pizza on her vehicle. The woman suggested her ex-boyfriend as a suspect, but did not have any interest in pursuing charges. She requested the incident be documented in case future incidents occur. September 27, 3:14 p.m.: Blaine officers responded to a domestic dispute at the Peace Arch Park. A woman showed up at the park to confront her soon-to-be ex-husband and his girlfriend. The woman claimed she was assaulted by her husband. Officers determined no crime occurred.
Precipitation: During the period of September 28–October 4, 0.01 inches of precipitation was recorded. The 2020 year-to-date precipitation is 25.8 inches. Temperature: High for the past week was 77°F on September 30 with a low of 48°F on September 28. Average high was 70°F and average low was 51°F. Courtesy Birch Bay Water & Sewer Dist.
Tides
September 27, 8:53 p.m.: Blaine officers responded to a reported suspicious vehicle. Officers were advised of a vehicle which was parked in the woods and the complainant thought it was someone attempting to conceal the vehicle. The vehicle was located and determined not to be stolen, and outside Blaine city limits. September 28, 12:31 p.m.: A woman came to the Blaine Police Department to report a phone scam. The woman claimed a person with the FBI had a warrant for her arrest from Texas. No money was lost to the phone-scammer. September 28, 12:53 p.m.: During routine patrols Blaine Police stopped a vehicle when it was believed the driver had a suspended license. The driver’s identity was confirmed and he was taken into custody. The driver was released a short time later with a criminal summons and mandatory court appearance date. September 28, 6:20 p.m.: Blaine police called a man who wanted to report suspicious activity by his neighbor. The man stated that the neighbor appeared to be video recording his children play and some of the neighbor’s cameras were facing his property. No crimes were determined to have occurred, but the man wanted the incident documented. September 28, 9:30 p.m.: Blaine Police Department officers responded to a fight reported in the 1300 block of Mitchell Avenue. Officers arrived and located the involved individuals, who were sparring. All confirmed the event was mutual and no one was injured. Officers cleared. September 29, 8:25 p.m.: An officer conducting radar enforcement stopped a speeding vehicle along Peace Portal Drive. The driver of the vehicle was contacted and found to have no valid driver’s license and was without ID. The man was arrested, cited, and released with a mandatory court date.
October 9–October 15 at Blaine. Not for navigation. 49° 0’ 0”N - 122° 46’ 0”W
DATE TIME HEIGHT TIME HEIGHT Fr 9
4:42 am 0.9 12:58 pm 8.3
6:11 pm 6.9
8:51 pm 7.2
Sa 10 5 :40 am 0.9
2:04 pm 8.5
7:53 pm 6.7 10:05 pm 6.8
Su 11 6 :44 am 0.8
2:52 pm 8.8
8:55 pm 6.1
Mo 12 12:15 am 6.6 7:48 am
3:30 pm 9.1
9:33 pm 5.3
Tu 13 1:59 am 6.8
8:50 am 0.8
4:02 pm 9.3 10:09 pm 4.2
We 14 3:19 am 7.3 9:46 am 1.0
4:34 pm 9.4 10:47 pm 2.9
Th 15 4 :29 am 8.0 10:38 am 1.5
5:04 pm 9.6 11:25 pm 1.6
September 29, 7:02 p.m.: A Blaine police officer responded to a residence where it was believed an unwanted person may have entered the home. The officer searched the house but did not find anyone or signs of anyone being inside the home. September 30, 4:22 p.m.: During routine patrols Blaine Police stopped a vehicle when it was believed the driver had a suspended license. The driver’s identity was confirmed and he was taken into custody. The driver was released a short time later with a criminal summons and mandatory court appearance date. October 1, 4:44 p.m.: A Blaine officer responded to a landlord/ tenant problem. The tenant wanted the landlord trespassed from the property. The officer informed the tenant that he could not be trespassed from his own property. The landlord was there to take pictures of the outside of the house because he was going to put it on the market when the tenant moves out.
Reports provided by Blaine Police Department
An Asian giant hornet caught in east Blaine with a tracking chip attached to its back. Learn more on page 1.
Photo courtest WSDA
October 8 - 14, 2020 • thenorthernlight.com
Late fees...
From page 1 into the new year with a better sense of what this B&O tax should be returning,” Jones told council on September 14. “Any lack of surety that we can eliminate from the budget process is going to be very useful; that’s one of the main reasons that Jeff and I are advocating that we should pin this down.” For 2020, Lazenby estimates that the city will collect $65,000 in B&O tax revenue and $1.2 million from the utility tax. The city of Blaine began imposing a B&O tax on January 1, 2020. The tax is 0.2 percent on
businesses with annual gross receipts of more than $250,000. Retail business and businesses providing accommodations, medical or food services are exempt. New businesses or startups that bring 25 or more full-time jobs into the city qualify for a tax credit over three consecutive years. Both the B&O tax and the utilities tax go into the city’s general fund. When city council adopted the B&O tax in 2019, it directed the city to use it to help fund economic development, police staffing, police vehicle replacement, police dispatch services and parks and facilities maintenance. The gas tax supports street maintenance and operations.
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The Northern Light • October 8 - 14, 2020
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