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February 18 - 24, 2021
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IN THIS
ISSUE
First sports competitions, page 2
Birch Bay dance studio opens, page 5
Tony’s Tavern closes road for outdoor dining, page 6
PRSRT STD U. S. Postage PAID Permit NO. 87 Blaine, WA 98230
Whatcom County moves to Phase 2 By Grace McCarthy
(See Phase 2, page 3)
s A snow-covered Peace Arch State Park provided a place for people to sled and meet up on February 14. Photo by Anna Johnson
B.C. officials scrutinize Peace Arch Park, days before couples brave snow for Valentine’s Day By Grace McCarthy The U.S. side of Peace Arch Park has remained open during the pandemic, becoming a focal point for frequent meet-ups between U.S. and Canadian residents. With Canadian case rates significantly lower than the U.S., B.C. officials questioned the loophole’s logic that allows for these gatherings just days before Valentine’s Day. In a February 10 letter written to B.C. premier John Horgan, B.C. liberal MLAs Trevor Halford (Surrey-White Rock) and Stephanie Cadieux (South Surrey) called
on Horgan to take action against the park meetings. “While we appreciate the desire or families to reunite – it must be done through the proper channels and following all health guidelines, not a loophole no one wants to take responsibility for,” the letter states. The MLAs wrote that they hear complaints from residents who don’t feel safe with the number of people meeting. In the wake of the more contagious Covid-19 variant, they asked Horgan to put pressure on Washington governor Jay Inslee to
Public works to prevent Deer Trail erosion from worsening By Ian Haupt A roadway in Birch Bay is experiencing severe erosion that has forced Whatcom County Public Works to limit traffic to one lane at the spot of the landslide and look for ways to prevent more of the road from falling away. Brian Walker, senior engineering technician for public works, said in an email the damage to Deer Trail was observed in early January when the roots of a maple tree separated from the hillside along the
road, pulling the edge of the road with it. On January 5, a county maintenance and operations crew removed the maple tree that was in danger of falling over due to the roots being destabilized by erosion. Walker said the bulk of the landslide occurred shortly after the tree removal, and there has been some minor erosion since January 5. The county has hired a consulting geotechnical engineer to analyze recommended temporary stabilization measures to take before the roadway can be perma-
nently reconstructed. Walker said those measures are still being analyzed. Near the intersection of Cherry Tree Lane, the spot of the landslide, Deer Trail has been reduced to one lane and stop signs have been placed on either end of the road to control traffic. However, it can be difficult for those entering the residential area to see oncoming traffic on the other side of the barriers that block the eroded roadway because of the gradient and bend (See Deer Trail, page 3)
close the park until the border reopens to non-essential travel. But in a news conference later that day, Horgan said the park is not regulated by Washington state or B.C. He also said he hasn’t discussed the cross-border meetings with Inslee, while other topics like Point Roberts have come up. “If we see consistent concerns about Peace Arch Park, I’ll certainly raise that with the federal government and they can take action with their counterparts in Washington, D.C.,” Horgan said. “I’m (See Park, page 8)
INSIDE
Whatcom County and the rest of Washington have moved into Phase 2 of the state’s two-phase reopening plan. With some minor metric reporting glitches due to a hospital error holding back one region, all of the state’s regions were in Phase 2 as of February 15. Whatcom County moved into Phase 2 on February 14, after governor Jay Inslee announced that counties previously slated to move into Phase 2 on Monday could open a day early for Valentine’s Day. The move to Phase 2 allows restaurants to have indoor activity with 25 percent capacity. The county, and the rest of the north region that includes Skagit, Island and San Juan counties, met the four requirements under the governor’s “Roadmap to Recovery” plan. Here is how the north region moved phases, according to “Roadmap to Recovery” metrics: • 32 percent decrease in rate of new Covid-19 cases in the past two weeks • 17 percent decrease in new Covid-19 hospital admissions per 100,000 in the past two weeks • 53 percent ICU occupancy in the past week • 6 percent Covid-19 test positivity rate Six other regions in the state moved forward in phases Sunday. When the eligible phases were announced February 11, the south central region was the only region to remain in Phase 1. However, the state department of health reported Sunday that a Walla Walla hospital was unintentionally misreporting hospital admission data and the region was eligible to move to Phase 2. South Central includes Kittitas, Yakima, Benton, Franklin, Walla Walla and Columbia counties and has since moved into Phase 2. Puget Sound and West regions moved into Phase 2 on February 1. The whole state is now in Phase 2. The governor was asked during the news conference why the state would risk reopening now when the new, more con-
Coming Up . . . . . 14 Classifieds . . . . . 11 Letters . . . . . . . . . 4 Police . . . . . . . . . 14 Tides . . . . . . . . . . 14
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The Northern Light • February 18 - 24, 2021
Borderites are back in action, more games this week By Ian Haupt The Borderites hosted their first competitions in a year Tuesday night. Blaine girls varsity volleyball defeated Bellingham High School in a closely contested 5-set victory. The Borderites won with set scores of 18-25, 25-23, 25-22, 20-25 and 15-11, kicking their season off with a 1-0 record. Girls soccer began its season with a loss to Ferndale High School. A late goal with two minutes left in the game came as only a consolation, the game finishing 1-3. As WIAA rules require, all athletes wore masks while in competition and social distancing was encouraged when possible. The Borderites host more action this week. Boys and girls varsity cross country kicked off their season February 17, with a
s Senior Kylah Wilskey, #7, sets the ball over the net in the Borderites’ first game back since fall 2019. The Borderites beat Bellingham High School 3-2. Photo by Janell Kortlever head-to-head race against Ferndale, while girls volleyball will play again Saturday, February 20, also against Ferndale. Varsity football kicks off its season with a home game against
Lynden Christian High School Saturday, February 20. All games will be livestreamed on the “Borderites Sports” YouTube page, at bit.ly/3quNaL3.
s Borderite #11, fends off Ferndale opponent in the Borderites’ opening game of the season February 16. The Borderites lost 1-3 to Ferndale High School. Photo by Janell Kortlever Only two weeks left for this unique opportunity!
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The Whatcom Museum is offering private bookings at the Lightcatcher and Old City Hall for groups of up to six people from the same household through Feb. 28. Visit whatcommuseum.org/learn/tours/ to learn more. We’re re-opening at 25% capacity on March 4th!
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February 18 - 24, 2021 • thenorthernlight.com
3
Covid-19 in Whatcom County, by school district boundaries: Recent two-week case rates and cumulative counts
Last updated: 02/16/2021
Blaine Rate: 193 Count: 361
Lynden Nooksack Valley Rate: 499 Rate: 497 Count: 1016 Count: 595 Ferndale Meridian Rate: 407 Rate: 260 Count: 1199 Mt. Baker Count: 342 Rate: 152 Count: 332 Bellingham Rate: 149 Count: 2222
s The rate is the number of confirmed Covid-19 cases per 100,000 people over the past two weeks, from January 31 to February 13. The count is the cumulative cases of Covid-19 since the start of the pandemic. As of February 15, Whatcom County has had a total of 6,167 confirmed cases of Covid-19 since the start of the pandemic and 80 deaths, according to Washington State Department of Health (DOH) data.
Eight people have died in the past week and the percent of deaths per total cases is 1.3 percent. All school districts continue to drop in case rates. Lynden school district had the highest
rate of new cases in the past two weeks, with 499 confirmed cases per 100,000. Nooksack Valley school district trailed with 497 confirmed cases per 100,000 people. Blaine had a rate of 193 per 100,000 in that period, which is
Phase 2 ...
rate lower than 10 percent. “We realize there is potential risk out there. That is why, in our metrics, we build in a fail-safe mechanism that’s automatic,” Inslee said. “If these variants come into our state en masse and if these numbers start to go up, this will self-correct and tamp down some of this potential transmission activity.” Indoor low and moderate risk sports can now compete but tournaments remain prohibited. Outdoor low, moderate and high risk
sports can compete, but no more than 200 spectators may attend. Fitness classes can now operate at 25 percent capacity. Under Phase 2, no more than five people outside a household may gather indoors with a maximum of five people. Indoor gatherings were previously prohibited in Phase 1. The number who can meet socially outdoors will increase from 10 to 15, but the groups will still be limited to two households. Indoor entertainment, such as
access to households on it, Cherry Tree Lane, Fawn Crescent, Pheasant Drive and Grouse Crescent Road, totaling about 80 to 90 residential households. Walker said he has heard concerns from residents about main-
taining access to the neighborhood and questions on when the roadway will be restored. Walker suggested that residents who want to stay informed about the project visit the project website at bit.ly/3jWA3Ac.
From page 1
tagious virus variant could cause an infection increase and rollback re-openings. Regions will automatically be in either Phase 1 or Phase 2 depending on their metrics – 10 percent decreasing trend in case rates, 10 percent decrease in Covid-19 hospital admission rates, ICU occupancy lower than 90 percent and a test positivity
Deer Trail ... From page 1
in the road. Walker said this section of the road will remain one lane until at least the short-term embankment stabilization measures can be implemented. He said it’s possible the road won’t return to two lanes until the roadway is reconstructed. In a January 15 newsletter, public works said a long-term fix would take a year or two due to staff resources, budget, permitting and other factors. Deer Trail road serves as sole
the third lowest in the county. Whatcom County had a rate of 332.9 newly diagnosed confirmed and probable cases per 100,000 people over the past two weeks. In the county, 17.6 percent of adult ICU beds were occupied by Covid-19 patients. The Whatcom County Health Department announced providers for the week of February 15 aren’t expected to receive any first doses but will receive 2,400 second doses. The health department said this is because first and second dose distributions have been unbalanced across the state and first dose distribution will return next week. About 21,484 vaccine doses have been administered in the county, which is an increase of 3,034 doses since last week. About 2.9 percent of county residents, or 6,611 people, are fully vaccinated and 9.4 percent have received at least one shot, according to health department data. Washington state reached its milestone of 1 million doses being administered. Statewide, there have been 1,057,844 vaccine doses administered, with
115,678 doses administered in the past week, according to state data. This is nearly 100,000 fewer doses administered than the previous week. About 296,840 people in Washington have received two doses of the vaccine and 890,282 have received only one dose, according to CDC data. However, there are inconsistencies with CDC data, which reports Washington has received 1,201,284 vaccines and 14,162 of those vaccines are not counted as being administered in either the first or second dose. Washington state has had 312,828 total confirmed cases since the start of the pandemic and 16,918 probable cases (probable cases come from an antigen test but not a molecular test). About 4,709 people in Washington with the virus have died as of February 15 and 18,764 have been hospitalized. For Whatcom County information, visit whatcomcounty.us/ covidvaccine and whatcomcounty.us/coviddata. State information is available at bit.ly/3r2URJj. Vaccine locations can be found at bit. ly/3nZiMqr. For CDC data, visit bit.ly/39Kt4qh.
theaters and museums, can operate at 25 percent capacity. Indoor weddings and funerals are now allowed if they follow venue requirements but dancing at weddings is prohibited. The same guidelines apply as they did in Phase 1 for retail stores, outdoor dining, indoor worship services, professional services and personal services.
The state department of health assesses Phase 2 eligibility every two weeks. The department will release the next phase update on Thursday, February 25 for phase changes that would go into effect Monday, March 1. For more information on Phase 2, visit bit.ly/373LS1W.
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The Northern Light • February 18 - 24, 2021
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.
Wally Byam’s Caribou Airstream Caravan in 1967
Publisher & Managing Editor Patrick Grubb publisher@pointrobertspress.com Co-publisher & Advertising Director Louise Mugar lmugar@pointrobertspress.com Editor Grace McCarthy grace@pointrobertspress.com Reporter Ian Haupt ian@pointrobertspress.com Reporting Intern Conor Wilson 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
s Nearly 400 trailers settle in at Birch Bay as part of Wally Byam’s Caribou Airstream Caravan, July 1967. A Caribou Airstream Caravan organized by Wally Byam resulted in nearly 400 trailers coming to Birch Bay during July 1967. Byam built the world’s first Airstream travel trailer in 1929, before founding the company Airstream in 1931, according to Airstream’s website.
General Editorial Inquiries editor@pointrobertspress.com
Photo by Jack Carver/courtesy Whatcom Museum
Letters
Contributors In This Issue Doug Dahl The Northern Light 225 Marine Drive, Suite 200, Blaine, WA 98230 Tel: 360/332-1777 Vol XXVI, No 35 Circulation: 10,500 copies
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Next issue: Feb. 25 Ads due: Feb. 19
The Editor: Access to Covid-19 vaccines is a confusing, disjointed, frustrating hodgepodge throughout the country. Vaccine availability here in Whatcom County is the largest challenge we face in getting people inoculated. Why haven’t state and local government agencies, including the Whatcom County Health Department, made direct vaccine allocations to our local dialysis center a priority? Dialysis patients have extremely complicated schedules as it is. They shouldn’t need to navigate hard-to-reach
scheduling systems or have to travel to a third-party site for a vaccination. Adding one additional hurdle to getting the vaccination means fewer dialysis patients will get the shot. End-stage renal disease (ESRD) patients are among the most vulnerable populations for poor outcomes of Covid-19, four times more likely to be hospitalized than all Medicare beneficiaries. Their Covid-19 mortality rate is 25-fold that of other age-matched people on Medicare. We don’t have a national strategy in place to prioritize vaccine for dialysis pa-
tients, but why can’t we achieve that at the local level in Whatcom County? Contact the health department and advocate for this vulnerable patient group. Getting dialysis patients, more conveniently, vaccinated is the right thing to do, but it also eases the pressure on the health system. Micki Jackson Bellingham Please send letters to letters@thenorthernlight.com no later than noon on Monday.
February 18 - 24, 2021 • thenorthernlight.com
5
Infinity Dance Company opens studio in Birch Bay
s Dancers warm up during their pre-ballet class at Infinity Dance Studio in Birch Bay. Photo by Grace McCarthy
By Grace McCarthy Birch Bay dancers now have the opportunity to groove locally with the opening of Infinity Dance Company’s newest dance studio. The studio opened its second location at 4819 Alderson Road on February 1 after running its first studio in Lynden in 2014. Hip hop, ballet and jazz classes are offered for dancers ages 3 to preteen from 3 p.m. to 5:35 p.m. on Mondays, Tuesdays and Thursdays. “I don’t think there’s a lot for
kids and dance classes in Birch Bay,” said studio owner Christie Peetoom. “The Birch Bay community likes when it feels like it’s right next to home because I think sometimes they get tired of driving to Blaine.” Peetoom, who lives near Birch Bay, said she had wanted to open a studio in the community and couldn’t turn it down after the building owner contacted her about a potential space this summer. “I’ve been wanting to open up here for quite some time and the opportunity presented itself,”
Ski to Sea canceled for second year in a row By Ian Haupt After reviewing possible options to host the popular Ski to Sea race during the pandemic, the Whatcom Events board of directors officially canceled this year’s Ski to Sea. Race fees for the multi-sport team relay, which was also canceled last year due to Covid-19, costing Whatcom Events $65,000, will be deferred to 2022, according to a February 12 announcement from the board of directors. “This decision was not made lightly,” the announcement says. “It is based upon a host of considerations, including the inability to stage a race that would allow all of us to experience the personal comradery that is at the core of
the event. The importance of this factor was highlighted by the results of our survey in which more than half of the 263 respondents replied that they were unlikely or very unlikely to form a team under the current circumstances.” The board said a bad turnout could threaten nonprofit Whatcom Events’ financial ability to run the race. It thanked the city of Bellingham, Whatcom County and the Whatcom County Health Department for their continued support and asked people to donate to the race’s GoFundMe page. This is the first time Whatcom Events has asked for support from the community. The GoFundMe campaign, created this weekend, is already halfway to its goal of $10,000.
New Covid-19 testing site starts at Bellingham airport A new drive-through Covid-19 testing site opened at the Bellingham International Airport on February 15. Whatcom County Health Department and Northwest Laboratory partnered to make the testing site available. Testing will continue at the Northwest Washington Fairgrounds in Lynden and mobile testing clinics, according to a press release on the new testing site. The airport testing site will run seven days per week 12-3 p.m.
and 4-7 p.m. “The Port is pleased to offer a convenient location for testing free-of-charge as an important contribution towards public health in Whatcom County,” said Rob Fix, executive director for the Port of Bellingham, in a news release. The Port operates the airport. Appointments can be scheduled at testdirectly.com or by calling 360/778-6075. For more information on Covid-19 testing locations, visit bit.ly/3jJFjqK.
Peetoom said. Peetoom started her dance career in Gig Harbor at 3 years old when she began training in ballet, tap, jazz, modern and contempo-
rary before moving to Whatcom County at 10 years old. She participated in Christian outreach program Youth With A Mission in New York City that allowed her to tour the U.S. in a dance performance advocating against bullying. In Whatcom County, Peetoom had directed a worship dance team at Sonlight Community Church and coached cheerleading at Lynden High School. She holds a bachelor’s degree from the dance program at Western Washington University. “Dance is the best way I can express how I feel or express what’s inside me even if I don’t know what I feel,” Peetoom said. “It’s such a creative outlet. It just makes me happy.” To follow social distancing, Peetoom limits the number of people in the Birch Bay studio from its normal capacity of 10. She added
that her Lynden studio has had in-person classes since June without any known Covid-19 cases being spread in what the state department of health classifies as a low-risk sport. “It was exciting to be able to expand in spite of the pandemic because we can still grow and operate safely,” Peetoom said. The Birch Bay studio is still accepting registration for spring session, running February 1 through June 19. “With everybody who comes through here, it’s an opportunity to help them be a better version of themselves, not just in dance but in life,” Peetoom said. “That’s where my passion is, to inspire that love, energy and happiness in all of the kids.” For more information, visit infinitydancecompany.com/birchbay or email info@infinitydancecompany.com.
TA X S P E C I A L I S T S Tax Planning & Preparation
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.
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The Northern Light • February 18 - 24, 2021
County closes road to allow Tony’s Tavern outdoor dining By Conor Wilson After a month-long push from Tony’s Tavern and co-owner Nicole McDonald, a section of 4th Street in Custer will temporarily close to make room for an outdoor dining space. The closure comes after Whatcom County Council unanimously passed an ordinance 7-0 at its February 9 meeting. The ordinance allows Tony’s to set up an outdoor structure between its north boundary and Main Street. It also allows the road to remain closed until Tony’s can open at full indoor capacity. The approved ordinance is expected to bring relief to the restaurant, which has been hard hit by the pandemic, having closed early or reduced hours several times due to restrictions on indoor dining, inclement weather and the December 22 train derailment that forced evacuations and road closures. McDonald, a third-generation co-owner of Tony’s, said she called the county a month ago about closing the road to set up
an outdoor dining structure. At the time, the restaurant only had indoor dining, which was prohibited under Covid-19 restrictions. After being told no, McDonald went door to door to ask for community support and called councilmember Ben Elenbaas, who represents Custer. Elenbaas introduced an ordinance at the council’s January 26 meeting. Under county law, ordinances cannot be voted on until they have been introduced for at least two weeks, unless they are an emergency. Elenbaas tried to push for an immediate vote, claiming the situation was an emergency, but the effort was unsuccessful. “The [Covid-19] restrictions were passed as emergencies,” McDonald said. “And if you look at our financial situation, it was an emergency.” McDonald said she was frustrated by how long the process took. Tony’s has only been able to open six of the last 12 months due to Covid-19 restrictions, and the uncertainty has made operating the business difficult.
s Tony’s Tavern and its new, volunteer built outdoor dining shelter located at 2920 Main St, in Custer. Photo by Conor Wilson
“It’s difficult to run a business day by day when there’s no guarantee we stay in Phase 2,” she said. With the ordinance approved, McDonald said the restaurant is moving forward with plans to set
up about six outside tables in the event indoor dining is restricted again. McDonald said she is thankful the county government is helping support local restaurants and said she has received continued community support
throughout the process, including from volunteers who helped build her outdoor structure. “The silver lining of it is the unity for bars and restaurants making people come together,” she said.
Remediations needed for Blaine Marine Park shoreline erosion By Grace McCarthy
s King tides in January carved away part of the banks in Marine Park.
Photo by Grace McCarthy
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A combination of high water level and strong winds eroded several spots along Blaine Marine Park, exposing dump debris and leaving the city with questions on remediation. During a January 12 king tide storm, winds from the north pushed waves into the banks, city manager Michael Jones said during the February 8 city council meeting. “With the combination of the high water level and the unusual wind direction, the waves caused quite a bit of damage,” he said. Marine Park sits on a former landfill that is now exposing buried trash after the storm eroded banks, which extended up to 15 feet in some of the hardest hit areas, Jones said. The city placed safety fences along some parts of the shoreline because erosion reached the trail, he said. If the city doesn’t act, Jones said fences, trail fragments and signs could be lost, but he cautioned the 2021 budget does not include money for these repairs. “This is a really great example of what running on a really tight budget means,” Jones said. “We don’t have contingency.” Jones presented council with three possible solutions that could be voted on during a future meeting. The first option, which Jones was unfavorable of, was to do nothing as the shoreline erodes and garbage continues to spill into the water. The second option was a modest shoreline permitting alternative that would use money from the parks and facilities maintenance budget to pick up trash and add things like wood debris to stabilize the shoreline. The third option would be for the city to hire a geotechnical
professional to develop a plan for the area, but Jones questioned if the city had money for consulting and said it wouldn’t have enough money to act on the consultant’s recommendations. Regardless of which plan council choses, Jones said the city will continue to pick up the trash along the shoreline in the meantime. This isn’t the first time king tides have eroded the shoreline and exposed trash along the beach. The Northern Light previously reported storms as recent as 2018 and 2012 also scattered landfill materials. “We are aware, we are working on it, we are evaluating alternatives but it’s not something we’ll be able to go out and fix tomorrow,” Jones said. Jones said he will come back to council with cost and timing estimates, and council could determine if they want to reprioritize funding or to dig into the reserves. When asked by councilmember
Eric Davidson if the city could go to the Port of Bellingham, who owns land under the park, or Blaine-Birch Bay Park and Recreation District 2 for funding, Jones said he believed the project would be out of the port’s scope, which focuses on economic development, but it might be possible to get partial funding from the parks district. Councilmembers voiced concern on the trails’ proximity to cliffs that have eroded in the past. The trails were placed by the Planning and Community Development Department and then the Blaine Park and Cemetery Board recommended the placement, ultimately approved by city council. “Looking forward, I would love for policy to include a little bit better thought and perhaps a geotechnical expert being brought in if we’re placing any future things on cliffs where there is the potential for this type of event to happen,” councilmember Richard May said.
s Parts of the trail are fenced off in areas of erosion. Photo by Grace McCarthy
February 18 - 24, 2021 • thenorthernlight.com
7
Local restaurants open indoor after three-month hiatus By Conor Wilson Blaine businesses celebrated the end of three months of limitations on indoor dining as Whatcom County moved to Phase 2 Sunday, allowing restaurants to open at 25 percent capacity. Miguel Ramos, owner of Paso Del Norte, said although he has less staff than before, he has been busy since indoor dining reopened. “People are coming in like crazy,” he said. Ramos said he was spending between $37 and $47 a day on propane to heat his outdoor patio because he could not open under the open-air guidelines due to the weather. Despite indoor dining being open, Ramos said he is unsure if it will impact his business significantly, citing decreased traffic through town with the U.S./Canada border closed. “We are a border town,” he
said. “We need the border open.” Restaurants can now serve groups of no more than six people, from no more than two households for dine-in services. However, bars that serve only drinks, and no food, must remain closed. This is the first time indoor dining has been allowed in the county since mid-November, when governor Jay Inslee issued state-wide shutdowns on all indoor gatherings to mitigate the spread of Covid-19. Rustic Fork owner Gary Slavin said since reopening indoors, he has doubled his seating capacity, with both his indoor and outdoor dining reservations filling up. Slavin previously said he was not able to meet the open air requirements to open inside under the open air guidelines. The move was praised by Anthony Anton, Washington State Hospitality Association CEO, who said, in a press release, the association would begin working
with the governor on a path to 50 percent capacity for businesses. The change coincided with Valentine’s Day, annually one the busiest days for restaurants. Restaurants have been hard hit over the last few months. Third quarter total gross income for restaurants in 2020 is down nearly a trillion dollars from previous years, according to the state Department of Revenue. Since January, restaurants in Phase 1 had only been able to operate with indoor dining if they followed open-air guidelines. To be eligible, restaurants had to allow sufficient outside airflow through a permeable wall. This required businesses to monitor carbon dioxide levels as an airflow indicator, and keep windows and doors open.
Although the open-air guidelines were eased from the original Phase 1 plan, which prohibited indoor dining, it was not a complete solution for all business owners. Tony’s Tavern, which did not have outdoor dining, had to close several times due to cold weather and Covid-19 restrictions, said co-owner Nicole McDonald. McDonald said she is happy about the phase change, and the restaurant has had good business since reopening, but said the unpredictability of restrictions makes operating the restaurant difficult. She said she is in the process of setting up outside dining if the region regresses. “Twenty-five percent [capacity] isn’t a lot, but hopefully we keep moving forward,” she said.
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Road Rules: Speedy drivers By Doug Dahl This week I’m going to respond to a recurring question that comes up when I talk with people about traffic and traffic safety: Why are so many drivers speeding? Talking about speeding is actually kind of tricky, because we don’t all agree on what it means. So many traffic violations are, for the most part, binary. Either you’re wearing your seatbelt or you’re not. You’re holding your phone or you’re not. You have a driver license or you don’t. The light is either red or it’s not. You get the idea. Speeding is a little different. Yes, there is a posted maximum speed limit, and you’re either over it or you’re not. But both culturally and from an enforcement standpoint, we tend to approach speeding as a gradient rather than an absolute. Here’s what I mean: I’ll assume you consider yourself a law-abiding person. If you’ve ever looked down at your speedometer and noticed that you were driving 62 mph in a 60 mph zone, did you feel guilt or the urge to hit the brakes? Unless the speed check was the result of seeing a patrol car, probably not. But there is a speed at which you’d feel like you’ve crossed a limit. The comedian George Carlin nailed our cultural attitude toward speeding when he said, “Have you ever noticed that anybody driving slower than you is an idiot, and anyone going faster than you is a maniac?” The same goes with enforcement. I recall a conversation I had with a traffic officer who said, “We’re not looking to nail you for two miles an hour over the speed limit. We’re talking about the goofballs that are driving like, you know, NASCAR.” I’m sure you’ll get his attention before you hit NASCAR speeds, but you get the point. In that context, let’s talk about
drivers who respect the speed limit. (“Respect the speed limit” is not a legal term. As the law says about the posted speed limit, “… no person shall drive on a highway at a speed in excess of such maximum limits.”) By “respect the speed limit” I mean that drivers are traveling at a speed that other road users and the people enforcing traffic laws don’t find concerning. As an example, I’ve never heard of someone getting a ticket for doing less than 5 mph over the speed limit in a 50 mph zone, so I’d say that falls within the window of respecting the speed limit. Respecting the speed limit may look different in other situations, like a school zone. Last summer I borrowed a radar gun from a local law enforcement agency and measured the speeds of 158 cars on a straight, flat stretch of road with a 50 mph speed limit. In this case study of one, 92 percent of drivers traveled within five mph of the speed limit or slower. You don’t just have to rely on my single experiment. The Washington Department of Transportation tracks vehicle speeds on 160 highways all over Washington. I haven’t checked them all, but on most of the highways I looked at, around 85 to 90 percent of drivers were within five mph of the speed limit. Most Washington drivers respect the speed limit; that’s the conclusion that the data support. It’s not that so many drivers are speeding; it’s that the 10 to 15 percent who do speed are involved in 30 percent of fatal crashes in Washington. Many wise people have said that your habits determine your future. That’s certainly true for the few who choose to speed. Doug Dahl is a manager with the Washington Traffic Safety Commission, Region 11 and publishes TheWiseDrive.com.
Please join the Commissioners of North Whatcom Fire & Rescue and Whatcom County Fire District 4 and Fire Chief Jason Van der Veen For a virtual public meeting via Zoom Your Fire Commissioners are exploring whether to ask voters to approve creation of a Regional Fire Authority to serve our communities. Come learn why your Fire Commissioners are discussing this option and what could change if voters approve. Sessions: Thursday, February 18 at 3:00 pm Tuesday, February 23 at 7:00 pm Zoom Links: Thursday, February 18 at 3:00 pm. Tuesday, February 23 at 7:00 pm. Zoom link: https://zoom.us/j/95374295014 Zoom link: https://zoom.us/j/92101021486 Meeting ID: 953 7429 5014 Meeting ID: 921 0102 1486 via phone: 12532158782,,95374295014# via phone: 12532158782,,92101021486#
Questions? Please call Jennie Sand at North Whatcom Fire & Rescue at 306-318-9933
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The Northern Light • February 18 - 24, 2021
Park ... From page 1
hopeful that those people who are coming together to see loved ones in that international space are doing so safely.” The B.C. side closed last summer but the U.S. side has been open since May for people to meet family and friends in the international boundary, with weekends gathering hundreds of people. The park is a neutral zone for Canadians to cross into because of a loophole in the 1814 Treaty of Ghent that does not allow either the U.S. or Canada to build a barrier within 10 feet of the border. As temperatures dropped in the fall, concern arose from people meeting in tents, which Washington State Parks and Recreation data showed could number 70 tents per day on the weekends but have decreased with the recent rain. Although tents are normally only allowed at campgrounds in state parks, there is no law that says tents cannot be used in a day-use area. Park ranger Rickey Blank said the Washington State
s Cross-border couples and families braved the winter weather in Peace Arch State Park on Valentine’s Day, February 14. Photo by Anna Johnson
Parks and Recreation Commission didn’t allow tents at first but began permitting them during the summer, while restricting overnight camping and only allowing structures on the east side of the park. Valentine’s Day at the snowy park drew in over 60 tents in Sunday’s sub-freezing temperatures, Blank said. People took to the park’s hill for sledding
and one cross-border couple got engaged. Fifty tents dotted the park Saturday and at least 24 cross-border groups continued to meet in the snow on Monday, he reported. “It was really busy with the snow and everything,” Blank said. “It was pretty amazing.” In response to criticisms across the border, Blank said the park operates on the governor’s Road-
map to Recovery plan and he isn’t aware of any Covid-19 transmission associated with the park – something he has told to political aides who have visited his office. Weddings in the park have decreased to about a dozen per month this winter. Garbage collected over the weekends shows the impact of visitors – on average 10 cubic yards are being collected per
week while 3 cubic yards collected in a week would be considered a lot in 2019, Blank said. Blank previously said the majority of people who use the park to meet loved ones consider it a blessing. “We want everybody to be safe, and we want to remind folks this is a family day-use park,” Blank said. “Be respectful of others and keep your social distancing.”
ADVICE FROM THE P Q: It looks like Covid-19 testing is going to be a fact of life for a long time. What are the major tests that are available and what are the differences?
Q: Do I need to take a Required
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A:
Deka Wiebusch CFP® AIF® CRPC®
FINANCIAL ADVISOR
The CARES Act in 2020 waived the requirement to take a distribution from your IRA if you were 72 years old or older. However, the most recent Consolidated Appropriations Act makes no mention of waiving required minimum distributions for 2021. While RMD’s could be waived in a later act, at Skyline Advisors we suggest planning on taking your RMD this year. If you are uneasy about taking an IRA distribution considering the current situation, you could plan to take a lump sum withdrawal of your full RMD in December of 2021. Contact a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ if you are unsure about your IRA requirements.
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Skyline Advisors, Inc. is a Registered Investment Adviser. Past performance is no guarantee of future returns. Investing involves risk and possible loss of principal capital. No advice may be rendered by Skyline Advisors, Inc. unless a client service agreement is in place.
What does the Guard offer?
In the Washington Army National Guard you serve part-time, getting paid training in a skill/ job of your choice. You can go to college full-time, at the same time. The Postsecondary Education Grant can cover up to 100% of college tuition and provide money towards books. Which isn’t available to the other military branches! Qualifying members can get a $20k enlistment bonus. All members will be able to pay for low-cost medical and life insurance and a 401k-style retirement. You’ll have a skillset, military service and potentially a debt-free diploma on your resume to set you apart from your peers at that next job interview. All while staying close to home, friends and family!
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Q: Is water pipe damage covered by insurance? A:
Your homeowners or business owners insurance policy should cover any sudden and unexpected water damage resulting from a plumbing malfunction or broken pipe. It is important to note that most insurance policies exclude damage to your structure that occurred gradually, such as a slow, constant leak, as well as damage due a fire sprinkler system or regional flooding. Refer to your policy or contact your agent to determine your coverage limits. Christine Roubidoux Personal Lines Manager Christine.Roubidoux@fortiphi.com
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February 18 - 24, 2021 • thenorthernlight.com
9
Blaine and Birch Bay celebrate a snow-filled weekend
s People sled down a hill at Peace Arch Park on February 14.
s A fashionable snowman made by the Wenger family on Ruby Street. Photo by Erik Endresen
Photo by Anna Johnson
s California Creek ices over on February 12.
PROS
Photo by John Hall
A Special Section of published monthly on the 3rd Thursday of the month
Q: Is now a good time to refinance?
Q: Are Open Houses allowed yet?
A: Yes.
A: Yes. Whatcom County just entered Phase
Interest rates are very low, and they should remain that way through the end of the year. Talk to a lender to see if it makes sense to refinance while considering your current rate and situation. Taking equity out for improveLoren Adkins ments, consolidation of bills, or refinancing to Senior Real Estate improve the Rate and Term on a current balLoan Officer ance, can all make sense. Plenty of options exNMLS# 643779 ist, and the process is more streamlined than Office: (360) 647-4425 you might think. You may not even need an Cell: (360) 303-8599 loren.adkins@peoplesbank-wa.com appraisal.
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2 and with it we have a few changes. Inperson brokerage activities can include up to 5 people, and open houses are now allowed with up to 10 people per house. Both still include face coverings, social distancing, and proper sanitation measures. Hopefully this is the first step back to an open and healthy real estate market that will provide more opportunities for buyers to see homes. If you are curious about open houses, looking to list this year, or need help from a buyer’s agent, please call 360-820-2630 or email me at julia@peacearchrealestate.com.
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Q: How can physical therapy help with your vertigo?
Q: What information should I bring to my tax appointment? A: Most people want to come prepared with all of the information needed to complete their tax return. Here is a checklist that will help you collect your tax documents.
Justin Marshall, DPT,OCS Physical Therapist Capstone Physical Therapy
1733 H Street, Suite 400 Blaine, WA 98230 360-332-5111 www.capstonept.com
A: Benign proximal positional vertigo (BPPV) is the most common cause of vertigo, which gives the sensation that you are spinning even when you remain still. BPPV is usually triggered by movements of the head with symptoms often being provoked by laying down in bed. At Capstone Physical Therapy we will work with you to identify the source of your vertigo and prescribe specific exercises to address the root cause of your condition. Capstone is conveniently located in seven locations throughout Whatcom County and is accepting new patients at our Birch Bay Square location and our Blaine clinic on H Street. www.capstonept.com 825 Birch Bay Square Street, Suite 248 Blaine, WA 98230
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3 Copy of your driver’s license 3 Copy of the Social Security cards for all family members 3 Birthdates for all family members 3 Forms W2 3 All Forms 1099 for interest, dividends, retirement, miscellaneous income, unemployment, nonemployee compensation, Social Security, state or local refunds, gambling winnings, etc. 3 Brokerage statements showing investment transactions for stocks, bonds, virtual currencies, etc. 3 Schedule K-1 from partnerships, S corporations, Estates and Trusts 3 All Forms 1095-A. 1095-B, and/or 1095-C related to heath care coverage or the Premium Tax Credit.
3 Statements supporting educational expenses, deductions or distributions, including any Forms 1098-T, 1098-E or 1099-Q 3 Statements for mortgage interest, property taxes or charitable contributions 3 Copies of closing statements for the sale or purchase of real estate 3 Legal papers for adoption, divorce, separation involving custody of children 3 Notice 1444 or 1444-B showing the amount of the Economic Impact Payment (EIP or EIP 2) you received. 3 Six-digit Identity Protection PIN if you received one from the IRS 3 Any tax notices you received from the IRS 3 Copy of your last income tax return
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10
Pets & Pet Care
The Northern Light • February 18 - 24, 2021
Best Photo Clips, Tips and products for a healthier, happier pet!
Find out what your pet is allergic to and why Allergies can vary in severity and cause various symptoms. According to the Mayo Clinic, allergies occur when the immune system reacts to a foreign substance by producing antibodies. These antibodies identify a particular allergen as harmful, even when it isn’t. Allergies can cause reactions in the skin, breathing passages and digestive system. Thousands of people experience allergies to foods, pets and environmental factors. Pets also
can be susceptible to allergies. Allergies can be found in cats and dogs, according to PetMD. They also may be present in other animals. People who notice their companion animals scratching, chewing or licking themselves more than normal may find their pets have allergies. Some pets may experience gastrointestinal issues as well. The pet care information site Pet Cube says common allergens for pets can include:
• Pollen from trees, grass and weeds • Food ingredients • Dust mites • Prescription medications • Fleas • Flea/tick control products • Cleaning products While their human friends may get runny noses or coughs from allergies, symptoms of allergies in cats and dogs tend to take the form of skin irritation, otherwise known as allergic dermatitis. Pet parents should look for the presence of red and irritated skin, hair loss, hot spots and rashes or hives, in addition to extensive
itching or obsessive licking. Flea allergies are one of the most common sources of allergies for pets. The bite of just one or two fleas per week is enough to cause a reaction. A pet gnawing just at the base of the tail may be suffering from fleas, although other areas may be affected, advises PetMD. Seasonal and environmental allergies or allergies to foods can result in face rubbing and licking, especially the paws. Skin or ear infections also may occur. Pets also may be allergic to one another. Veterinarian Dr. Robert Trimble, co-founder of the
San Francisco-based Fuzzy Pet Health, says he’s heard of dogs being allergic to cats and vice versa. The American Kennel Club urges pet parents to seek help if their pets seem to be itchy all the time. Allowing a pet to scratch or lick for extended periods of time may lead to skin infections with bacteria or yeast. While all allergies cannot be tested, elimination diets and other techniques may help pinpoint sources of allergies. It is essential to speak with a vet to determine how to relieve allergies to help pets feel more comfortable.
s Duke of Windsor, who is owned by Paris Feldman. Photo by Arleen Johansson
s Nova, a 1-year-old Aussie shepherd, border collie and retriever mix. Photo by Bianca Bitonti and JR Freeman
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February 18 - 24, 2021 • thenorthernlight.com
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NOTICE TO CREDITORS IN THE SUPERIOR COURT OF THE STATE OF WASHINGTON, IN AND FOR THE COUNTY OF WHATCOM, IN RE THE ESTATE OF ROSS RAY WAGNER. PROBATE NO. 20-4-00627-37 JUDGE: DAVID E. 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: 2/18/21. Personal Representative: Joyce Hurley. Attorney for the Estate: Keith Bode, WSBA #7791 314 5th Street, P.O. box 688, Lynden, WA 98264-0688, Tel. (360) 354-5021
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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.
Legal IN THE SUPERIOR COURT OF THE STATE OF WASHINGTON IN AND FOR THE COUNTY OF Whatcom In Re the Estate of: Fay Stockton, Deceased. NO. 21-400059-37. PROBATE NOTICE TO CREDITORS (RCW 11.40.030) JUDGE: Evan P. Jones The personal representative named below has been appointed as personal representative of this estate. Any person having a claim against the decedent must, before the time the claim would be barred by any otherwise applicable statute of limitations, present the claim in the manner as provided in RCW 11.40.070 by serving on or mailing to the personal representative or the personal representative’s attorney at the address stated below a copy of the claim and filing the original of the claim with the court in which the probate proceedings were commenced. The claim must be presented within the later of: (1) Thirty days after the personal representative served or mailed the notice to the creditor as provided under RCW 11.40.020(1)(c); or (2) four months after the date of first publication of the notice. If the claim is not presented within this time frame, the claim is forever barred, except as otherwise provided in RCW 11.40.051 and 11.40.060. This bar is effective as to claims against both the decedent’s probate and nonprobate assets. Date of First Publication: February 4, 2021 Personal Representative: Jeffrey Stockton 3832 Kansas Street Bellingham, WA 98229 Attorney for the Personal Representative: Katti Esp 301 Prospect Street Bellingham, WA 98225 Address for Mailing or Service: Katti Esp 301 Prospect Street Bellingham, WA 98225 Court of Probate Proceedings Superior Court of Whatcom County and Cause Number: Cause No. 21 4 00059 37
All estate/rentals advertisAllreal real estate/rentals advertising in this newspaper is subject to the Federal Fair Housing Act of 1968 as amended, which ing in this newspaper subject makes it illegal to advertiseisany preference, limitation or discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, handicap to the Federal Fair Housing Act familial status or national origin, or an intention to make any such preference, limitation or discrimination. This newspaper of 1968 as amended, which makes it illegal will not knowingly accept any advertisement for or realdisestate which is in violation of the law. Our readers are hereby informed that all dwellings to advertise any preference, limitation advertised in thisbased newspaper available on an equal opportunity basis. To complain of discrimination, call HUD toll-free at 1-800-877-0246. crimination on are 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,
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Advertise Now! Rentals Residential WATERVIEW CONDO 2-BD, 2-BA, 1100 SF upper level Mariner's Cove unit. Fully furnished. $1550/mo. + deposit. No smoking, no dogs. 425-7650924.
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12
The Northern Light • February 18 - 24, 2021
Real Estate
BLAINE, BIRCH BAY & SEMIAHMOO
Windermere Real Estate/Whatcom Inc. 360.371.5100 8105 Birch Bay Square St. I-5 Exit 270, Blaine
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.
F E A T U R E D L I S T I N G S - B I R C H B AY
8370 Harborview Rd Unit #11 MLS #1725056 $259,900 Koehn Road MLS #1597410 $1,495,000
456 feet +/- of Waterfront property on 16.85 acres, with either estate or subdivide opportunities. Can be expanded buy adding parcel # 3951111614530000, 13.38 acres. Potential for up to six home sites with the addition of this parcel. Combined parcel available with combined listing #1589151 with over 30 acres +/- and over 814 feet +/- of waterfront footage. Water available through Birch Bay Water. Be the beneficiary of terrific sun exposure, & an incredibly private & quiet location. See it soon.
Brian Southwick 360-815-6638
4767 Alderson Road MLS #1724220 $300,000
8239 Cedar Ave MLS #1671430 $295,000
Fantastic Birch Bay & Island views, super cute upgrades & finishes, deeded beach access & community Hard to find view home under $300,000. Two bed- garden next to property. Fantastic remodel completed rooms plus den and two bathrooms packaged in a in 2019. Big deck, vinyl windows, new paint & flooring functional and easy to maintain floorplan. Short walk and more. Ideal snowbird getaway & very affordable to The C Shop, restaurants, public beaches, and more. primary address w/views in heart of booming Birch This is an opportunity you won’t want to miss! Please Bay. Furnishings negotiable. EZ to make bonus room see adjacent lot also listed for sale at $95,000. Ask to into 3rd bedroom. The water’s edge is just 1 minute see Airbnb Rental Forecast Report if considering the stroll. Stunning South facing Inland Pacific Sunsets fill the picture windows. property for Airbnb/VRBO.
Gerry Allen 360-9200563
F E AT U R E D B L A I N E
Mike Kent 360-815-3898
5768 Salish Road MLS #1683441 $250,000
Well maintained furnished home in Birch Bay Village gated beach & Marina community. Features updated appliances in spacious kitchen w/breakfast bar. Dining room built-ins w/lots of storage. Big living room w/ wood burning stove + great room off kitchen w/cozy free-standing gas fireplace. Master & guest bedroom have ensuite bathrooms. Large covered front deck + covered area in back & Workshop/storage shed. RV/ boat space + golf cart shelter. Fruit trees all on sunny corner cul-de-sac entry lot.
Lisa Kent 360-594-8034
Make sure you check out the pictures of this modern remodeled cottage in the 55 and over community of Birch Bay Retirement Inc. Your purchase includes your home and a 1/18th share in Birch Bay Retirement Inc an 18-home development with common areas that include some RV parking. This may be the least expensive place to live in Birch Bay on a monthly basis. The monthly dues of $120.00 a month, include expenses for not only Birch Bay Water and Sewer but all expenses for Birch Bay Retirement Inc. Great location with perfect sun exposure and enjoy the benefits of a completely remodeled property creating a Beach Cottage with modern outbuilding.
Brian Southwick 360-815-6638
F E AT U R E D L I S T I N G S - S E M I A H M O O
OPEN HOUSE OPEN1-4 SUN
9593 Freedom Place MLS #1724761 $265,000
Dreaming of building right away? Here is a nearly impossible to find 10 acre building site with the preliminary work mostly DONE! 4 bed approved septic design in 2020, shared well already onsite, power to the edge of the property & approximately 2 acres already cleared in preparation for your beautiful new estate. This represents months/years of time saving for you + improvements worth thousands! Seller also has a Survey, Critical Areas/Wetlands Assessment & Water Analysis reports. Freedom Place is tucked behind a private gated entry & is located just minutes to booming Blaine, an international airport, 2 USA/CAN border crossings, I-5 access + 2 saltwater marinas.
Jen Freeman 360-815-0803
8920 Bald Eagle Drive MLS #1722489 $650,000
Well cared for single story on the 17th fairway at Semiahmoo! The sprawling rambler that you have been looking for--this home offers all the space at an amazingly affordable price. Take full advantage of this ideal fairway location the large deck is built for entertainment, basking in the rays and enjoying a great view of the golf course. Classic finishes--select oak flooring, granite counters in kitchen, timeless cabinetry and stainless appliances. Sizeable guest rooms and large master suite make this home a great find. Home is fully fit with new A/C, new Presidential shake roof, leaf guard gutters and new exterior garage door.
Kathy Stauffer 360-815-4718
9171 Great Blue Heron MLS #1726336 $639,000
One of a kind waterfront building site for your dream home. It’s all about location & this is the best 180-degree views of the bay, lights of White Rock, BC & the San Juan Islands. Almost full acre site that allows for a spectacular custom home. Fully serviced and ready to go! Plan ahead, buy now and build the home you want. They aren’t making any more waterfront & once this is gone, there is nothing like it left. Flat, huge building pad allows for sprawling single story. Buy now-Build later!
Kathy Stauffer 360-815-4718
9540 Semiahmoo Pkwy #L18 MLS #1727007 $19,999
Exceptional value in this 34 ft slip, located in the protected Semiahmoo Resort Marina, gateway to the San Juan & Gulf Islands. Easy access moorage close to the entrance ramp. Well maintained facility w fully equipped laundry room, restrooms, showers, picnic areas, full-service marina store w coffee bar/eatery. Enjoy gorgeous views of the snow capped peaks, city lights, walking/biking trails, soaring eagles & waterfowl. Near beaches, golf course, resort hotel w restaurants, spa, pool and health club.
Lisa Sprague 360-961-0838
7714 Birch Bay Drive #405 MLS #1664824 $619,900
Spectacular sunsets, deluxe top floor waterfront 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 it’s 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
www.windermere.com
PENDING!
Semiahmoo Marina Boat slips: C-24, 44’ Slip for $52,500 C-33, 40’ Slip for $46,500 20+ acres on Kickerville Road $179,000
80.7% of readers frequently purchase products or services from ads seen in
2040 Ponderosa Ct, Bellingham, 3 bedrooms, 2 baths $419,000
Community Newspaper of Blaine, Birch Bay & Semiahmoo
Call Hugh : 360.371.5800
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Your Local Expert For All Real Estate, Residential Or Commercial Services! Hugh Brawford, Managing Broker
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NELSON BUILDING
With Waterfront Views of Blaine Harbor
925 Ludwick Ave., Blaine
LEASE SPACES FOR:
800 - 1600 s.f.
Warehousing-Distribution Manufacturing or Retail Vehicle Storage Yards Near Truck Route & Shopping Mall Email or Call Don Nelson For Availability & Rates
360-305-0286
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FOR LEASE
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Prime ground floor office and retail space in The Northern Light Cannery-style building at Blaine Harbor. For leasing info, contact Pat Grubb
360/332-1777
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February 18 - 24, 2021 • thenorthernlight.com
In wake of major data breach, cyber security office proposed in Olympia By Patric Haerle Reeling from a December breach that allowed hackers to access the personal information of roughly 1.6 million Washington residents, state lawmakers are working with governor Jay Inslee to establish a new office to protect state data. Senate Bill 5432, sponsored by senator Reuven Carlyle (D-Seattle) establishes a new Office of Cyber Security (OCS). The bill is set to move on a fast track through the Legislature this session. Officials from the governor’s office said the request was in response to the December breach of data tied to resident unemployment claims filed in 2020. The data was in the possession of the state auditor’s office, which was investigating unemployment fraud. Hackers accessed the data through a company called Accellion, a San Francisco-based company tapped for services by the auditor’s office. The unemployment claims included filers’ social security num-
bers and banking information. “The particular data breach that we just experienced is absolutely categorically unacceptable, and the people of the state need to know how serious we take this,” said Carlyle. “It is imperative that we implement best practices from a cyber security point of view.” Lawmakers and members of various state agencies at a hearing for the bill February 9 said they observed an uptick in cyber attacks, possibly because so much state business moved online during the Covid-19 pandemic. “Cyber attacks are on the rise, both in alarming frequency and level of sophistication,” said Sheri Sawyer, a policy advisor to the governor. “We just really have to look to the last 10 months to get a clear view of the landscape here in Washington State.” OCS has existed informally under WaTech, the state’s technology agency, but would become statutory and enjoy broader authority should the bill pass. The proposal requires state agencies to follow security guidelines set forth by the OCS and
report cyber security incidents to the office within 24 hours. The office would then investigate attacks and coordinate related communications. Additionally, by July 2022, the new office would have to develop a catalog of additional digital security services to perform and submit a report to the governor and the legislature. The bill is drawing bipartisan support. “It’s a troubling trend. I’m not usually one to grow government, but I think in this instance, it’s incumbent upon us to make sure that we can protect this information,” said senator Shelly Short (R-Addy) during an executive session on the bill. “I wasn’t sure how I was going to vote but given the comments that have been made and just thinking about what the intent of the bill is, I’m supportive.” The Washington State Journal is a non-profit news website managed by the Washington Newspaper Publishers Association Foundation. Learn more at wastatejournal.org.
42nd district representatives in Olympia during the last week How are your 42nd district representatives voting in Olympia? WashingtonVotes.org is a Washington Policy Center initiative that shows votes from state lawmakers during the legislative session. The Senate passed a package of House bills to distribute $2.2 billion in federal Covid-19 relief funds (HB 1368); to waive state business taxes on federal aid to businesses (HB 1095); and to help pay for Medicaid programs with money from the state’s “rainy day” fund to free up federal Covid-19 funding for other needs (HB 1367). These bills passed by unanimous or near-unanimous votes and, having now passed both chambers, they are headed to the governor for his signature. In the House, members debated and passed measures to change regulations relating to long-term care facilities in the
event of a pandemic, natural disaster or other declared state of emergency (HB 1120); changing disclosure requirements concerning dismissal of law enforcement officers for misconduct (HB 1088); and authorizing audits of law enforcement use of deadly force investigations (HB 1089). House Bill 1120: Concerning state of emergency operations impacting long-term services and supports. Passed the House on February 5, 2021 by a vote of 5838, two members excused. Alicia Rule (D-Blaine) – Yes Sharon Shewmake (D-Bellingham) – Yes House Bill 1088: Concerning potential impeachment disclosures relating to law enforcement officers. Passed the House on February 10, 2021 by a vote of 61-37. Alicia Rule (D-Blaine) – Yes Sharon Shewmake (D-Belling-
ham) – Yes House Bill 1089: Concerning compliance audits of requirements relating to peace officers and law enforcement agencies. Passed the House on February 10, 2021 by a vote of 80-18. Alicia Rule (D-Blaine) – Yes Sharon Shewmake (D-Bellingham) – Yes
FOR REAL NEWS
13
RECENT HOUSE & LOT PRICES
Blaine, Birch Bay & Point Roberts JANUARY 2021
SALE PRICE
DESCRIPTION
LOCATION
HIGHER END HOUSES $600,000 AND ABOVE: 2- story house with 3,235 SF, 5 BD, 4 BA, 635 SF attached garage, 701 SF and 332 SF decks, built in 1992, .49 acres land.
5385 Quail Run, Blaine
$690,280
1-and a half story house with 3,111 SF, 4 BD, 3 BA, 768 SF attached garage, 693 SF deck, built in 1992; territorial view, .35 acres land.
8804 Osprey Road, Blaine
$705,000
1-story house with 1,488 SF, 1,380 SF basement, 3 BD, 3 BA, 650 SF deck, built in 1952, 60 feet waterfront; marine views, .46 acres land.
8284 Shintaffer Road, Blaine
$750,000
1-story house with 2,684 SF, 1,512 SF basement, 4 BD, 3 BA, 624 SF attached garage, 358 SF patio, built in 1991, 135 waterfront; marine views, 1.03 acres land.
6191 Semiahmoo $1,100,000 Lane, Blaine
1-story house with 2,094 SF, 3 BD, 3 BA, 560 SF detached garage, 914 SF patio, built in 1975, waterfront; marine view.
5553 Haida Way, Blaine
$750,000
2-story house with 3,340 SF, 3 BD, 3 BA, 639 SF balcony, 919 SF built-in garage, 112 SF deck, built in 1992, .36 acres land.
9086 Chickadee Way, Blaine
$675,000
1-story house with 2,419 SF, 4 BD, 3 BA, 528 SF attached garage, 310 SF deck, built in 2018; territorial view, .28 acres land.
8289 Cowichan Road, Blaine
$725,000
1-and a half story house with 2,875 SF, 4 BD, 4 BA, bonus room, 702 SF attached garage, 382SF patio, 298 SF deck, built in 2003, .36 acres land.
8849 Goldeneye Lane, Blaine
$960,000
9134 Wigeon Court, Blaine
$995,000
1-story house with 2,484 SF, 1,242 SF basement, 3 BD, 4 BA, 876 SF attached garage, 892 SF deck, built in 1994, waterfront; marine view, .94 acres land.
1-story house with 1,546 SF, 1,356 SF basement, 3 BD, 4 BA, 371 W. Bluff Road, $1,197,000 Point Roberts 462 SF attached garage, 557 SF and 568 SF decks, built in 2002, waterfront; marine view, .26 acres land. 1-story house with 1,647 SF, 2 BD, 2 BA, 480 SF attached 5459 Tsawwassen Loop, Blaine garage, 454 SF deck, 200 SF enclosed porch, built in 1974, waterfront; marine view, .26 acres land.
$655,000
2-story house with 3,028 SF, 4 BD, 3 BA, 550 SF attached garaged, 1,073 SF deck, built in 1989; marine view, private beach access, .31 acres land.
9099 Chickadee Way, Blaine
$769,000
2-story house with 2,758 SF, 4 BD, 4 BA, 708 SF built-in garage, 128 SF deck, built in 2014; marine and territorial view, .17 acres land.
5440 Beach Rock Loop, Blaine
$630,000
1345 Gulf Road, Point Roberts
$210,000
9445 Sunrise Road, Blaine
$230,000
COMMERCIAL PROPERTIES: Café with 1,168 SF, 384 SF patio, built in 1946. LAND: 19.77 acres ranch land.
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14
The Northern Light • February 18 - 24, 2021
Coming up
Sheriff’s Reports February 11, 4:38 a.m.: Alarm silent on Birch Bay Lynden Drive. February 11, 4:38 a.m.: Alarm audible on Birch Bay Square Street. February 11, 7:29 a.m.: Welfare check on Frances Lane. February 11, 7:59 a.m.: Suspicious vehicle on Morgan Drive. February 11, 10:25 a.m.: Alarm audible on Whitehorn Way. February 11, 11:35 a.m.: Traffic hazard on Sunrise and H Street roads. February 11, 12 p.m.: Suspicious circumstances on Delta Line Road. February 11, 12:15 p.m.: Custodial interference on Cowichan Road. February 11, 2:31 p.m.: Harassment on Loft Lane. February 11, 2:51 p.m.: Juvenile problem on Anderson Road. February 11, 2:52 p.m.: Domestic physical on Anderson Road. February 11, 3:06 p.m.: Harassment on Leeside Drive. February 11, 3:12 p.m.: Traffic
hazard on Behme Road, Custer. February 11, 3:50 p.m.: Trespass on Birch Bay-Lynden Road. February 11, 3:59 p.m.: Forgery on Evergreen Lane. February 12, 9:37 a.m.: Vandalism on Blaine and Loomis Trail roads. February 12, 12:36 p.m.: Parking problem on Fern Street and Beach Way Drive. February 12, 8:07 p.m.: Suspicious circumstances on East Street. February 12, 11:34 p.m.: Welfare check on Portal Way and Loomis Trail Road. February 13, 9:41 p.m.: Motor vehicle accident non-blocking/ injury on Seafair Drive. February 13, 10:07 a.m.: Motor vehicle accident non-blocking/ injury on Birch Bay-Lynden and Delta Line roads. February 13, 10:31 a.m.: Watch for on Harborview Road and Birch Bay Drive. February 13, 10:45 a.m.: Refer to Washington State Patrol on Blaine and Drayton Harbor roads. February 13, 12:42 p.m.: Motor vehicle accident non-blocking/
injury on Drayton Harbor and Harborview roads. February 13, 1:04 p.m.: Harassment on Loft Lane. February 13, 1:28 p.m.: Traffic control on Shintaffer and Birch Bay roads. February 13, 1:42 p.m.: Motor vehicle accident non-blocking/ injury on Birch Point Road. February 13, 2:22 p.m.: Theft on Giles Road. February 13, 2:25 p.m.: Traffic hazard on Drayton Harbor Road. February 13, 2:41 p.m.: Motor vehicle accident non-blocking/ injury on Birch Point Road and Semiahmoo Drive. February 13, 3:14 p.m.: Motor vehicle accident blocking on Delta Line and West Badger roads, Custer. February 13, 6:45 p.m.: Motor vehicle accident non-blocking/ injury on Sunset Drive. February 13, 8:05 p.m.: Motor vehicle accident non-blocking/injury on Point Whitehorn Road. February 14, 12 a.m.: Suspicious person on Birch Terrace Drive, Custer. Suspect arrested on trespassing charge.
Crossword ACROSS 1. Large dung beetle 7. Representation of a plan 13. In a fervid way 14. The Book of Psalms 16. Morning 17. Exactly the same 19. About 20. Brown and basmati are two 22. Swiss river 23. Philippine island 25. Expressions of surprise 26. An ant 28. Common Japanese surname 29. Deoxyribonucleic acid 30. Car mechanics group 31. A person’s brother or sister 33. Ancient pharaoh 34. Quantitative fact 36. Vividly colored bird 38. Your home has one 40. Organic compound 41. Section at the end of a book 43. Flat tableland
with steep edges 44. Criticize 45. Split pulses 47. Brief trend 48. Cool! 51. Purposes 53. Brews 55. Skin condition 56. Pops 58. American air travel company 59. Minute bug 60. Anno Domini (in the year of Our Lord) 61. One who rides in your car 64. One of the Gospels 65. City in southern Spain 67. Inquisitive 69. Jean Paul __, author 70. Pop singer Harry DOWN 1. An ape or monkey 2. Chemical element 3. Zodiac sign 4. Removes 5. Brew 6. Nickname 7. Architectural structures 8. Trigonometric function
9. Postmodern architectural building in Vienna 10. Henderson and Fitzgerald are two 11. Mountain (abbr.) 12. Landscaping practice 13. Capacitance unit 15. Redirect 18. Hat for women 21. In a way, dressed down 24. Granny 26. Feed 27. Endpoint 30. Indian instrument 32. Bleated 35. Cablegram (abbr.) 37. Root mean square (abbr.) 38. Jellyfishes 39. Individual TV installments 42. Talk 43. More (Spanish) 46. Leaseholder 47. Monetary units 49. Hostility 50. Work stations 52. Linguistics giant 54. Female sheep 55. Calendar month 57. Seasoning 59. Lofty nest of a
Please wear masks and follow social distancing guidelines. Native Plant Sale: Now through March 1. Order online at whatcomcd. org/plant-sale. Pre-scheduled drive through pick up March 13 and 14 at the Nooksack Salmon Enhancement Association, 3057 E Bakerview Road, Bellingham. Sponsored by the Whatcom Conservation District. Origins and Evolutions: Five Generations Exhibit: Tuesday–Thursdays, 11 a.m.–4 p.m. and by appointment. A new exhibition featuring the art of four members of the Anderson/Syre family. Gallery Syre, 465 W. Stuart Road, Bellingham. Info: davidsyreart.com. Allied Arts Annual Member’s Show: Tuesday–Saturday, 11 a.m.–4 p.m.,1418 Cornwall Avenue, Bellingham, through February 27. Featuring work from nearly 100 Allied Art members including professional artists, students and new or emerging artists with works ranging from traditional paintings to photography, contemporary sculptures and everything in between. Info and virtual tour: alliedarts.org. Exploring Regional Fire Authority: Thursday, February 18, 3 p.m. and Tuesday, February 23, 7 p.m. Join North Whatcom Fire and Rescue and Whatcom County Fire District 4 commissioners and fire chief Jason Van der Veen for a virtual public meeting exploring whether to ask voters to approve the creation of a regional fire authority. February 18 Zoom info: zoom.us/j/95374295014, February 23 Zoom info: zoom. us/j/92101021486. Live Music at the Vault: Friday, February 19, 7 p.m., The Vault Wine Bar and Bistro, 277 G Street. Featuring JP Falcon. Info: thevaultwine.com. Maritime Washington National Heritage Area Project: Tuesday, February 23, 5 p.m. Join a virtual conversation about the new Maritime Washington Heritage Area and what it means for Whatcom County. Info and registration: bit.ly/3cYN6zE. Sponsored by: Bellingham Whatcom Country Tourism, Working Waterfront Coalition of Whatcom County and the Washington Trust for Historic Preservation. Live Music at the Vault: Friday, February 26, 7 p.m., The Vault Wine Bar and Bistro, 277 G Street. Featuring Len Beckett. Info: thevaultwine.com. Back to the 80s Virtual Trivia: Saturday, February 27, 6:30 p.m., Free but suggested donation of $25 can be made while registering to support the Birch Bay Library Project. Register wcls.libcal.com/event/7517551 or call 206/850-8590. Virtual Community Meeting With The Superintendent: Monday, March 1, 6 p.m. The community is invited to join Dr. Christopher Granger, Blaine school district superintendent for school updates and ask questions. Info and Zoom link at blainesd.org.
bird of prey 62. Single Lens Reflex 63. A way to remove 66. Virginia 68. Old English
Whatcom Reads Online Author Events: Thursday and Friday, March 4 and 5. Join Esi Edugyan, author of this year’s Whatcom Reads book, Washington Black Thursday, March 4 at 1 p.m. and 7 p.m. for a conversation and writing event on Friday, March 5 at 11 a.m. Full event list and registration at whatcomreads.org.
ANSWERS: THENORTHERNLIGHT.COM
Tides
Live Music at the Vault: Friday, March 5, 7 p.m., The Vault Wine Bar and Bistro, 277 G Street. Featuring JP Falcon. Info: thevaultwine.com.
February 19 - 25 at Blaine. Not for navigation. 49° 0’ 0”N - 122° 46’ 0”W DATE
TIME
HEIGHT
Fr 19 3:36 am 5.7
TIME
HEIGHT
9:40 am 8.5
5:21 pm 2.1
Sa 20 1:11 am 6.9
4:28 am 6.6
10:08 am 8.3
6:15 pm 1.6
Su 21 2:49 am 7.5
5:56 am 7.2
10:44 am 8.1
7:11 pm 1.0
Mo 22 3:43 am 8.1
7:40 am 7.4
11:38 am 8.0
8:03 pm 0.4
Tu 23 4:19 am 8.6
8:56 am 7.3
12:48 pm 8.0
8:51 pm -0.2
We 24 4:51 am 9.1
9:48 am 7.0
9:35 pm -0.6
1:54 pm 8.1
Th 25 5:19 am 9.4 10:30 am 6.5
Georgian Wine Tasting: Friday, March 5, 5 p.m., The Vault Wine Bar and Bistro, 277 G Street. Featuring Jason Cross of Dickerson Distributors leading a tasting four courses paired with four wines from Mildiani and Enkeni Wineries in the Republic of Georgia. Reservations required. Info: thevaultwine.com.
2:54 pm 8.2 10:17 pm -0.9
Whatcom Cultural Arts Festival: March 5–27. Celebrating the various diverse cultures that populate our area through fine art, craft, song, dance, storytelling and other creative endeavors. Exhibitions at Allied Arts, 1418 Cornwall Avenue, Bellingham with performances and workshops via social media. Info: alliedarts.org. Haynie Opry: Saturday, March 13, Haynie Grange, 3344 Haynie Road, Custer. Join Matt Audette and the Circle of Friends band for a gospel matinee at 3 p.m. and an evening show at 7 p.m. Tickets $5 for matinee, $10 evening show at the door. Info: 360/366-3321. Wings Over Water Virtual Northwest Birding Festival: March 19–21. Live webinars, video bird walks, kids’ activities and more to enhance your outdoor experience and love of birding. Info: wingsoverwaterbirdingfestival.com. Ongoing: Boys & Girls Club After School Care: Monday–Thursday until 5 p.m. Serving students in grades 1–6 at Blaine schools. Registration required weekly. Info: https://parentportal.whatcomclubs.org or contact the Club at 360/332-3008. 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. 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. 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. Birch Bay Chamber of Commerce Virtual Meetings: Third Thursdays, 1 p.m. Meeting ID on birchbaychamber.com.
Weather
Coffee With The Contractor Virtual Meetings: Fourth Thursdays, 8 a.m. Learn the progress of the Birch Bay berm project with members of Granite Construction, Whatcom County Public Works and the Birch Bay Chamber of Commerce. Meeting ID on birchbaychamber.com
Precipitation: During the period of February 8 to 14, 0.3 inches of precipitation was recorded. The 2021 year-to-date precipitation 7.9 inches.
Blaine Library: 610 3rd Street. Closed in-branch visits. Curbside holds and pick up, Monday–Thursday, 10 a.m.–8 p.m., Friday 10 a.m.–6 p.m., Saturday 10 a.m.–5 p.m. Info 360/305-3637.
Temperature: High for the past week was 41°F on February 8 with a low of 19°F on February 12. Average high was 36°F and average low was 24°F. Courtesy Birch Bay Water & Sewer Dist.
Blaine Chamber of Commerce Virtual Meetings: First Wednesday, noon. Meeting ID on blainechamber.com.
Meals on Wheels: New dates, beginning week of February 1, Thursdays 11:30 a.m.–12:30 p.m., Blaine Senior Center, 763 G Street. Adults 60+ pick up one hot and six frozen meals. Suggested donation $5 per meal or whatever is affordable. First come, first serve basis. Info: 360/332-8040. Toastmasters Virtual Meetings: Tuesdays 6:30–7:45 p.m. Entertaining and educational. Have fun speaking, learn to overcome fears. Info: Call Pete 360/933-1671 or visit 590628.toastmastersclubs.org. Submissions to Coming Up should be sent to calendar@thenorthernlight.com no later than noon on Monday.
February 18 - 24, 2021 • thenorthernlight.com
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Medicare cost-savings webinar Learn about getting help to pay for Medicare & other cost-savings programs.
Washington
Join us online via Zoom:
Bl ack
Thurs., Feb. 11, 9:30 am - 10:30 am Thurs., Mar. 3, 10 am - 11 am Thurs., Mar. 18, 12 pm - 1 pm
by Esi Edugyan
Register at: oppco.org/shiba or call: 360-788-2725 Presentation by your local Whatcom County SHIBA (Statewide Health Insurance Benefits Advisors):
BOOK CLUB EXPERIENCES:
Facilitated online book discussions
Opportunity Council 1419 Cornwall Ave., Bellingham WA 98225
Think, Drink, Dine:
Themed cocktails and to-go dinners
ONLINE AUTHOR EVENTS:
A Conversation with Esi Edugyan: 1 p.m. Thursday, March 4 An Evening with Esi Edugyan: 7 p.m. Thursday, March 4 Art and Craft of Writing: 11 a.m. Friday, March 5
Whole Pilates of Birch Bay
Stay Healthy With
Whole Pilates.
Full event list & registration: whatcomreads.org Read the book. Join the conversation.
Call today
973-865-2764
Read local news online at thenorthernlight.com
NEED HEALTH INSURANCE? GET FREE HELP BY PHONE!
Unity Care NW’s Outreach and Enrollment staff offer free help by phone to any Whatcom County resident needing to find or change health insurance. Call (360) 788-2669 or visit bit.ly/3bBx8qs
BELLINGHAM • FERNDALE • UnityCareNW.org
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The Northern Light • February 18 - 24, 2021
Exceptional care is just a heartbeat away The path to achieving heart health is near, thanks to the experts at PeaceHealth St. Joseph Cardiovascular Center. Here you’ll find the full spectrum of cardiac and vascular care and expertise, including these innovative, minimally invasive procedures: TAVR (for aortic stenosis)
TCAR (for carotid artery disease)
Venous closure (for diseased leg veins)
WATCHMAN™ (for atrial fibrillation)
Highest Rated Surgical Quality by The Society of Thoracic Surgeons
Our Center has earned numerous national awards through the years. However, winning the privilege to care for the most hearts in our region is our proudest achievement. For more information, call 360-594-5118 or visit peacehealth.org/CardiovascularCenter