The Northern Light: February 25-March 3, 2021 by Point Roberts Press

February 25 - March 3, 2021

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IN THIS

ISSUE

First U.K. variant found in county, page 2

Birch Bay man targeted in drive-by shooting

Get ready to plant, page 8

Local law enforcement hiring, page 7

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

Borderite varsity football plays its first game in a year

By Grace McCarthy

(See Shooting, page 13)

s Senior Will McKinney, #11, tries to break through Lynden Christian’s defensive line in the Borderites’ home opener February 20. Photo by Janell Kortlever

U.S./Canada border closure nears one-year anniversary; politicians call for action By Grace McCarthy The most recent announcement extending the U.S./Canada border closure until March 21 means the border will have been closed to non-essential traffic for a year. This comes just days before a Washington state congressional delegation urged President Joe Biden to focus on safely reopening the border. In a February 22 letter, congresswoman Suzan DelBene (WA-01) and six other members of Congress asked Biden to consider the border closure’s impact on areas like Whatcom County, and highlighted the unique situation of Point Roberts’ isolation from the U.S. mainland. “During the pandemic daily life has been uprooted in many ways for all of us, but for communities dependent upon cross-border interactions, life has completely halted,” the letter reads. “The United States,

Opening March 1

and Washington state specifically, share a deep social and economic bond with our neighbors to the north, and we must make meaningful progress in shaping a collaborative plan for safely reopening the border.” The letter contrasted Canadians spending $138 million in Whatcom County in 2018 to a 98 percent decrease in 2020 border crossings. Lawmakers asked for uniform border restrictions because the current procedure of individual Canada Border Service Agency (CBSA) officers deciding what is essential has turned people away from the border, especially Point Roberts residents. Lawmakers included Clallam and Jefferson counties on the Olympic Peninsula as facing hardships with the halt of the Victoria, B.C. ferry. Lawmakers asked the president to: • Create a bilateral plan to ease border

restrictions; • Vaccinate and test all necessary CBP staff • Add travel exemptions in the U.S. for family members across the border to re(See Border, page 10)

Coming Up . . . . . 14 Classifieds . . . . . 11 Letters . . . . . . . . . 4 Police . . . . . . . . . 14 Sports . . . . . . . . . . 7 Tides . . . . . . . . . . 14

INSIDE

A Bellingham man, apparently fueled by a fit of rage, has been charged with attempting to kill a Birch Bay man in a February 19 drive-by shooting. Whatcom County sheriff’s deputies responded to the 5500 block of Hillvue Road at 5:45 p.m. on February 19 after receiving a report that Juan Avena, 28, had been shot and the suspect was on the run. Martin Dylan Siergiey, 35, allegedly believed Avena had raped his wife in November, according to the affidavit of probable cause (APC) sheriff’s deputy Erik G. Francis filed in Whatcom County Superior Court. The APC states Avena reportedly did not know Siergiey, who drove up to Avena’s house and asked him, “Are you Juan?” When Avena replied in the affirmative, Siergiey accused Avena of raping his wife last November and then “produced a black automatic handgun and began to shoot at [him] from his vehicle. [Avena] was only a few feet away and ran south behind a neighbor’s house.” Siergiey continued to shoot at Avena, who fled into his neighbor’s house. As he ran, a bullet struck him in the upper right thigh and passed through his leg, according to the affidavit. First responders later treated Avena, the only person injured, at the scene. He was later seen by a doctor. Siergiey allegedly shot at the neighbor’s house, which was hit by two rounds, one that hit the headboard in their bedroom and another that hit their bathroom closet. Avena said he believed Siergiey tried to kill him and wanted to pursue charges. He was able to describe Siergiey and his vehicle, which allowed deputies to provide a photo lineup from which Avena identified Siergiey. Siergiey was identified as a possible suspect based on a suspicious circumstance report filed by a third party in November that accused Avena of raping Siergiey’s wife. According to the APC, the wife was interviewed but did not confirm the accusation or cooperate with investigators. After the shooting, Avena told deputy Francis that he had met the woman in a chance encounter in November and had consensual intercourse with her. She left

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The Northern Light • February 25 - March 3, 2021

First U.K. Covid-19 variant found in Whatcom County, 39 cases reported statewide By Grace McCarthy The first known U.K. Covid-19 variant was detected in Whatcom County, the health department reported February 23. “We are concerned but not alarmed about the detection of this variant in Whatcom County,” Whatcom County health officer Dr. Greg Stern said in a media release. “It has been present in other counties in our region for several weeks, and we expected that

it would eventually be identified in Whatcom County as well.” The B.1.1.7 variant is thought to spread more quickly than the original strain. The state department of health (DOH) said February 23 that 39 known cases of the U.K. variant have been reported in Washington after it was found in January in two Snohomish County residents. The U.K. variant was discovered in September 2020. According to the CDC, 45

states have detected the U.K. variant and 1,881 cases have been reported in the U.S. (although it reports only 19 cases found in Washington, which contradicts the state’s reporting of 39). The state also reported February 23 that the first known South African Covid-19 variant was found in King County but there have been no detections of the variant from Brazil. Covid-19 vaccines available in the U.S. have not indicated decreased prevention against the

U.K. variant, the county health department said in its media release. The health department continues to encourage people to wear masks fitted correctly, avoid indoor gatherings and take other steps to prevent the spread of the virus. For more information on Covid-19 variants, visit the DOH’s website at doh.wa.gov/ e m e rg e n c i e s / c o v i d 1 9 / v a r i ants and the CDC’s website at bit.ly/3pN2hP6.

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February 25 - March 3, 2021 • thenorthernlight.com

Covid-19 in Whatcom County, by school district boundaries: Recent two-week case rates and cumulative counts

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Bellingham Rate: 145 Count: 2311 s The rate is the number of confirmed Covid-19 cases per 100,000 people over the past two weeks, from February 7 to February 20. The count is the cumulative cases of Covid-19 since the start of the pandemic. move into the next vaccine allo- more opportunity to receive vaccation phase have stopped receiv- cines,” Hollinsworth said. About 29,560 vaccine dosCovid-19 case rates continue ing first dose vaccines because to decline from the post-holiday the state is using those doses for es have been administered in peak at the beginning of the year. counties that need more vaccines. the county, which is an increase Cindy Hollinsworth, health de- of 8,076 doses since last week. “We continue to see a stabilizing and slow decrease with the partment communicable disease About 5.3 percent of county rates in Whatcom County, which manager, said the department residents are fully vaccinated is very encouraging for us as we’re is also seeking information on and 11.5 percent have received entering into the spring and mov- what determines the number of at least one shot, according to ing into Phase 2,” said Erika Laut- vaccines given to each vaccine health department data. However, DOH data shows 12,030 counenbach, Whatcom County Health provider. “Some smaller practices who ty residents are fully vaccinated Department director, in a February 17 media conference. “We’re don’t necessarily have a large and 25,996 have received at least glad to see those rates lower than population of patients over 65 or one shot – this number equals they had been a month ago and Phase 1a workers are choosing 38,026 vaccinated county resinot to order vaccines at this time dents because people have been headed in the right direction.” As of February 22, Whatcom to let the larger clinics that need (See Covid-19, page 6) County has had a total of 6,455 to get their operations going have confirmed cases of Covid-19 since the start of the pandemic and 81 deaths, according to Washington State Department of Health (DOH) data. One person Reserve Now! died in the past week and the percent of deaths per total cases is Friday, March 5 • 5-7:30 pm 1.2 percent. Join Jason Cross of Dickerson Distributors for All school districts continue to paired plates and 4 wines from Mildiani and drop in case rates. Lynden school Enkeni Wineries from the Republic of Georgia district had the highest rate of new cases in the past two weeks, with 380 confirmed cases per 100,000 people. Nooksack Valley Friday, Feb 26 • 7 pm • Live Music by Len Beckett school district trailed with 379 confirmed cases per 100,000 peoFriday, March 5 • 7 pm • Live Music by Free Harmony ple. Blaine had a rate of 176 per Friday, March 12 • 7 pm • Live Music by Adrian Clark 100,000 in that period, which is the fourth lowest in the county. Friday, March 19 • 7 pm • Live Music by Trio Sueño Whatcom County had a rate of *In lieu of a cover charge, purchase of food and/or beverage is required for live music 279 newly diagnosed confirmed and probable cases per 100,000 25% indoor seating (in our Bistro and Event Spaces) people over the past two weeks. In the county, 14.7 percent of Reservations highly recommended 360-392-0955 adult ICU beds were occupied by Covid-19 patients. Lautenbach said during the media conference that the department is awaiting clarity from the state on the number of doses each county is receiving and the reason behind the allocation numbers. “We do know, in conversations with the state department of health, they’re really trying to Open Wednesday-Saturday 4-9 pm right-size how far along coun277 G Street • Downtown Blaine ties are,” Lautenbach said. She www.TheVaultWine.com said some small counties ready to

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City of Blaine Open Non-Law Enforcement Community Representative Position, Law Enforcement Mutual Aid Response Team (LEMART) Application Review Deadline: 4:30 PM on March 5th; Open until filled This posting is for the unpaid volunteer position(s) of LEMART Non-Law Enforcement Community Representative to assist in the Independent Investigation Team’s (IIT) response to law enforcement use of force incidents in Whatcom County and its jurisdictions to include: Bellingham, Blaine, Everson, Ferndale, Lynden, Lummi Nation, Nooksack, Nooksack Tribal and Sumas. With the passage of Washington State Initiative 940 in November of 2018, and SHB 1064 in 2019, incidents where the use of deadly force by a peace officer results in the death, substantial bodily harm, or great bodily harm require an independent investigation. The independent investigation is conducted in the same manner as a criminal investigation and state law now requires an “independent investigation” completely independent of the involved agency. The goal of this requirement is to enhance accountability and increase trust between law enforcement and the community, to improve the legitimacy of policing, and for an increase in safety for everyone. Please go the City of Blaine website for more information on the position and how to apply. The information can be found under “City News and Updates” as well as the “Current Job Opportunities” link on the homepage.

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The Northern Light • February 25 - March 3, 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.

Peace Portal Drive in the early 20th century

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 General Editorial Inquiries editor@pointrobertspress.com Contributors In This Issue Rhiannon Allen, Doug Dahl The Northern Light 225 Marine Drive, Suite 200, Blaine, WA 98230 Tel: 360/332-1777 Vol XXVI, No 36 Circulation: 10,500 copies

Circulation Independently verified by:

Next issue: March 4 Ads due: Feb. 26

s A view north on Peace Portal Drive across Martin Street in 1915. On the northeast corner, the three-story Hotel Blaine at 758 Peace Portal, built in the 1890s, was run by Mr. and Mrs. T. E. Davis. The hotel burned down in 1939. The Ivan-L Theatre, showing silent films at the time, is on the right at 816 Peace Portal Drive. Photo courtesy Whatcom Museum

Volunteer needed for police accountability response team By Conor Wilson The Blaine police department is searching for a Blaine resident to serve as a nonlaw enforcement city representative in potential police use-of-force investigations. If a police officer uses force resulting in injury or death, state law requires an independent agency to investigate the incident. Whatcom County’s independent investigation team is called the Law Enforcement Mutual Aid Response Team (LEMART), which consists of detectives and investigators as well as community representatives from each police jurisdiction in the county. Blaine police chief Donnell Tanksley said if a use-of-force incident occurred in Blaine, the investigation would be done by another police department or the county

sheriff’s office. However, the city’s non-law enforcement representative would serve on the investigation team to provide accountability. Tanksley said the program’s goal is to increase transparency, trust and communication. “LEMART representatives really get access to the play by play of the investigation,” Tanksley said. The non-law enforcement representative will be involved in interviews, selection of LEMART law enforcement investigators and screening press releases prior to them being sent out. By law, they must pass a background check and attend police useof-force training. The position is unpaid and at least two representatives will be assigned to each team. Blaine police department has not re-

ceived any applications thus far, but the sheriff’s office received an application from a Birch Bay resident, Tanksley said. LEMART is required under House Bill 1064, which the state house and senate passed unanimously in 2019. The law is an update to Initiative 940, known as the Law Enforcement Training and Community Safety Act, which was approved by state voters in 2018. To apply, residents must live within Blaine city limits and send an application to dtanksley@cityofblaine.com by Friday, March 5. The application must include a letter of interest and the applicant’s contact information. Tanksley and the LEMART executive board will select the representative. More information can be found at bit.ly/3sjkTaZ.

Civic Meetings Birch Bay Water & Sewer District: Second and fourth Thursdays, 4:30 p.m., district offices, 7096 Point Whitehorn Road, Birch Bay. Info and Zoom meeting link: bbwsd.com.

Blaine-Birch Bay Park and Recreation: Second Tuesday, 5:30 p.m., location varies. Info: bbbparkandrec.org. Virtual meeting info: bbbparkandrec.org/board-meetings/

Blaine City Council: Second and fourth Mondays, 6 p.m., Blaine City Council chambers, 435 Martin Street. Info and virtual meeting login: ci.blaine.wa.us.

Blaine Park and Cemetery Board: Second Thursday, 9 a.m., virtual meeting. Info: 360/332-8311, ext. 3330.

Blaine Planning Commission: Second and fourth Thursdays, 6 p.m. Info: blainepc@cityofblaine.com. Info for joining Zoom meetings: bit. ly/2CiMKnk.

Blaine School Board: Fourth Monday, 7 p.m., Blaine school district offices. Info and virtual meeting link: blainesd.org. North Whatcom Fire & Rescue: Third Thursday, 1 p.m. Info: nwfrs. net.

February 25 - March 3, 2021 • thenorthernlight.com

Road Rules: Why doesn’t the government reduce crashes with education videos? By Doug Dahl Question: If you want to stop driving drunk, or speeding, or texting and driving, or not wearing a seatbelt, why doesn’t the government make more videos like what I watched in driver’s education? You know, the ones with the graphic car crashes. That’ll get their attention. Answer: I’ve heard variations on this question from plenty of people, and while the motivation to improve driving behavior is commendable, the approach is misguided. You might be asking yourself, “But if the approach is misguided, then why did driver’s ed classes use them and why has the government made so many traffic safety commercials with car crashes?” The short answer is, we were wrong. There’s no doubt that watching a public service announcement featuring a tragic car crash can provoke emotion. And when you get the feeling, you think the message is working. But the real measure of an effective traffic safety message isn’t how it makes you feel; it’s whether or not it causes someone to make safer driving decisions. Scare tactics just aren’t that effective at changing actual behavior, and they depend on exploiting peoples’ emotions, which seems like a crummy way to get people to change. For some people, often the people most at risk, that emotional exploitation results in them ignoring, or even rejecting the safety message. Scare tactics also tend to focus on extremes and worst-case scenarios. This has the effect of both normalizing the negative behavior and causing people to think that the terrible outcomes won’t happen to them. There are real traffic safety is-

sues to be concerned about, as mentioned in the original question, but fear and shock have their limits. If a little fear in a message is helpful, more isn’t better. Awareness that something is dangerous, like texting and driving, is helpful in decision-making; being so shocked by a message that it paralyzes your decision-making is obviously not. So what does work? Let’s start by recognizing that in spite of the harms caused by traffic crashes, goodness (and by that I mean our cultural values that support health and safety) exists in our communities. So let’s try to grow those values. In fact, most drivers regularly engage in safe driving practices. Here are some examples in our state: • 93 percent of vehicle occupants wear a seat belt • 78 percent of people don’t drive after drinking • 85 percent people don’t drive after using cannabis • 91 percent of drivers keep their focus on the road Next, let’s balance hope and concern. While most of us make safe driving choices, the few who don’t are responsible for far too many fatal crashes. We have to both acknowledge the consequences of high-risk behaviors, and recognize the culture of safety that most of us value. Then, let’s connect this to our community. Making safe driving decisions isn’t just about you getting home; it’s also about your family, your friends, your neighbors. Over the past decade or more, many safety organizations across the country have been moving away from scare tactics and embracing the methods I just mentioned. If you’re curious about what this looks like in our state,

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take a look at the Washington Traffic Safety Commission’s latest effort, called “Together We Get There,” at togetherwegetthere. com. As the name suggests, you’ll see messages focused on how we can watch out for and protect each other on our roads. Yes, getting arrested and getting in a crash are real possibilities when engaging in high-risk driving behaviors. But the research suggests that what really will motivate us to drive safely is less scare and more care. Okay, that was a terrible little rhyme. But it’s true.

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A mass vaccination clinic will open at Bellingham Technical College (BTC) once the county has enough vaccine supply, the Whatcom County Health Department announced February 18. A news release on the vaccination clinic said organizers are finalizing operations and will be ready to open when there is enough supply, which could be by March. The site will operate through appointments only. Organizers estimate the county could vaccinate up to 5,000 people at the college per week. The mass vaccination clinic will be in partnership with BTC, Family Care Network, PeaceHealth, Sea Mar Community Health Center, Unity Care NW and the health department, the release said. “It’s an honor to work collaboratively with our partners to

develop plans for a community vaccination clinic that will be open to all,” said county health department director Erika Lautenbach, in the news release. “When Whatcom County partners work collectively, we can do more to support our residents. The vaccine promises a return to normality.” Whatcom Community College nursing students will help with the vaccination clinic, the news release said. People should not call the technical college for information on scheduling appointments, the news release said. Updates, including the launch date, operation hours and how to book appointments will soon be available on the county health department website. BTC is located at 3028 Lindbergh Avenue in Bellingham.

Call (360) 393-3927 for details. Visit www.daytodaydance.com to view our current class schedule

ay ay ance to

2021 GOALS • Continue to deliver responsive, informative, and professional services to ensure my clients make informed and financial beneficial real estate decisions.

Doug Dahl is a manager with the Washington Traffic Safety Commission, Region 11 and publishes TheWiseDrive.com.

• Increase my real estate sales by: - using real estate technology tools more to broaden my services - expanding my social networking on online presence - adding new clients (you can help by having me work for you) • Increase notary business to include remote signing at Peace Arch Park for Canadian clients.

CITY OF BLAINE

• Return to tennis after loss of my twin sister.

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.

• Continue to be the most senior Managing Real Estate Broker in Washington State who has 35 years experience to her credit.

VANDERPOL JOYCE B. VANDERPOL REALTY Managing Broker & Notary Direct 360-319-0730 • Office 360-332-1169 jvandrealty@openaccess.crg • vanderpolrealty.com

Thursday, February 25 6:00pm – Planning Commission Meeting Public Hearing – Variance for Cedar Court Apartments

Medicare cost-savings webinar

Monday, March 8 5:00pm – Study Session:

Learn about getting help to pay for Medicare & other cost-savings programs.

Sewer Update 6:00pm – City Council Meeting Public Hearing - Appeal of Planning Commission Denial of the Community Assistance Program Conditional Use Permit.

Join us online via Zoom:

Thurs., Feb. 11, 9:30 am - 10:30 am Thurs., Mar. 3, 10 am - 11 am Thurs., Mar. 18, 12 pm - 1 pm

Tuesday, March 9 8:00am – Blaine Tourism

Advisory Committee

Mass vaccination site planned at Bellingham Technical College

Presentation by your local Whatcom County SHIBA (Statewide Health Insurance Benefits Advisors):

All City offices are currently closed to the public. Contact information for staff and Councilmembers can be found on the City’s website.

Opportunity Council 1419 Cornwall Ave., Bellingham WA 98225

Call (360) 332-8311 or visit our website.

www.cityofblaine.com

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The Northern Light • February 25 - March 3, 2021

Covid-19 ... From page 3

vaccinated outside of Whatcom County. The state has 37,990 vaccines administered without a county assignment, 40,748 people have had their first vaccine shot without an assigned county and 15,719 people are fully vaccinated without a county assignment. Statewide, 1,379,318 vaccine doses have been administered, with 321,474 doses administered in the past week, according to DOH data. This is about 205,700 more doses administered than the previous week. About 412,374 people in Washington have received two doses of

the vaccine and 960,680 have received only one dose, according to DOH data. Washington state has had 317,805 total confirmed cases since the start of the pandemic and 17,888 probable cases (probable cases come from an antigen test but not a molecular test). About 4,881 people in Washington with the virus have died as of February 22 and 19,160 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.

s People enjoy an evening overlooking the Semiahmoo water tower from Jorgensen Pier. Photo by Ian Haupt

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Unemployment claims dropping locally since the start of the new year By Ian Haupt Claims for unemployment insurance were the lowest they’ve been in Whatcom County in months and the lowest they’ve been in the state since before the pandemic in the week of February 7 to February 13. Following a recent jump in claims around the New Year due to expected seasonal effects, the number of unemployment claims filed in the county and state have declined. But according to data released by Washington’s Employment Security Department (ESD), claims are still significantly higher when compared to last year’s figures. Typically, twice as many claims are filed each week than during the corresponding week in 2020, before the pandemic. Throughout the pandemic, the

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360-228-6979 Velocityathletictraining.com Number of employees: One - Helena Smolock, CPT-RNC, Master Athlete, Founder and President of Velocity Athletic Training. How long in business: Formed in Blaine, since May 2020. Description of the business: Velocity Athletic Training has created an environment where a trusted bond is developed between client and trainer. Together, we design your 1:1 functional conditioning to boost your fitness, athletic performance and mindset to WIN! Believe it. Be it. Live it. How the business started: Helena Smolock has over 35 years experience in the fitness industry. Her journey as a track athlete in high school led her to a rewarding career in fitness. Today, Helena continues her journey as a fitness professional and as a master athlete. She has assisted corporate clients, semi-pro athletes, clients with cancer, heart disease, and post-rehab clients with injuries to lead an energetic and healthier lifestyle. She has led thousands of classes of various levels and with the ever-changing industry is certified to teach and lead step, spin, strength, aqua-fit classes. Participants in each class, as well as, each personal training client has experienced her compassionate, firm, technical but comical style of leadership! She continues to remain current in this ever changing industry. Future goals: Velocity Athletic Training will be offering franchise opportunities in the very near future. Full training and certification procedures will be required to embark on this very rewarding career. Presently in process - Velocity Athlete Talent Management will replace the existing Athlete Ambassador Program. Stay tuned! Featured businesses are selected randomly from the Blaine Community Chamber of Commerce membership.

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ESD has seen a correlation between restrictions and the number of claims filed. Claims hit record numbers in Washington when the state went into lockdown last spring, with one week in March totaling over 180,000 claims. From there, claims slowly decreased into the summer, but always remained at least twice the number filed in the corresponding weeks of the prior year. In the fall, claims increased following governor Inslee’s announcement of tighter restrictions, but with the recent move into Phase 2 of the new reopening plan, claims have begun to fall again. During the week of February 7-13, 432 initial claims were filed in the county, whereas 244 were filed in the same week in 2020. The ESD recorded 854 claims filed the week of January 3-9 versus 308 the year before. Statewide, 13,607 new claims for unemployment benefits were filed during the week ending February 13, while less than half the number of claims were filed the year before. During the week of January 3-9, 27,147 claims were filed, triple the number filed the previous year. “The number of claims we’re seeing are still extremely high relative to a normal period of time,” said ESD regional labor economist Anneliese Vance-Sherman. Vance-Sherman said that while a lot of the recent spikes have been related to increased restrictions, the ESD is starting to see the influx of claims take a normal shape. “We’re working from a much more stable environment now,” she said. “The seasonal rhythm is still with us.” With the state moving into Phase 2 of the governor’s “Roadmap to Recovery,” lifting restrictions on indoor dining to allow 25 percent capacity, Vance-Sherman said she expects to see unemployment claims continue to dip in the upcoming weeks, especially in those industries most affected by restrictions, like accommodation and the food services industry. “But I don’t expect [the

claims] to completely go away,” Vance-Sherman said. “Part of it is the policy, but part of it is the rhythm.” In Whatcom County, 260 people who filed initial claims for unemployment insurance from February 7-13 did not disclose an industry, making up more than half of the number of claims filed. For those who did, the majority were in trade or construction. Specialty trade contractors (62 claims), building construction (17 claims) and heavy and civil engineering construction (17 claims) were the industries with the most new claims filed. In Washington, industries are unknown in 2,432 of the claims filed that week, and an industry was not disclosed in 960 claims filed. Industries with the most claims filed were specialty trade contractors (1,522 claims), food services and drinking places (1,056 claims) and administrative and support services (843 claims). Vance-Sherman said that although the number of claims filed for unemployment benefits may be dropping, the ESD is still receiving an almost unprecedented number of claims. “We’re just about where we were during the Great Depression, just in terms of unemployment claims,” she said. Nationwide, in the week ending February 13, there were 861,000 claims filed, an increase of 13,000 from the previous week’s revised level, according to the U.S. Department of Labor. The four-week moving average was 833,250, a decrease of 3,500 claims from the previous week. In the week ending January 9, there were 926,000 claims filed. But Vance-Sherman offered some comforting words, “The numbers are stabilizing.”

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February 25 - March 3, 2021 • thenorthernlight.com

Sports

s Junior Joseph Haworth, #4, goes up for a catch in the Borderites’ first game of the season February 20 against Lynden Christian High School. The Borderites lost 55-0 in the home opener. All home games will be live streamed on the “Borderite Sports” YouTube page. Photo by Janell Kortlever

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i l s o n

The Borderites continued its adjusted fall season this week, as all four fall sports competed. Football The Borderites varsity football team played its first game in over a year last Saturday, falling 55-0 to Lynden Christian, the defending 1A Northwest Conference champions. Senior quarterback Will McKinney completed 7 of 17 pass attempts for 40 yards.

The Borderites will play on the road Friday, at Mount Baker, with kickoff set for 7 p.m. Cross County The boys and girls cross country teams raced in a dual meet against Ferndale February 17, at Pipeline Field in Blaine. On the boys side, freshman Cameron Saunders was the Borderites’ top runner, finishing the two mile race in seventh with a time of 15:15. Junior Eleeshiyah Faulkner finished first for the girls

team, taking second place in a time of 15:45. The Borderites have an away meet scheduled against Meridian on Thursday, February 25. Girls Soccer The Borderites played two away matches last week. Last Thursday, the Borderites drew 0-0 against Oak Harbor. On Tuesday, the Borderites lost 2-0 to Squalicum, moving its record to 0-2-1. The Borderites will play at home against Meridian this

Thursday, February 25, at 6 p.m. Volleyball The Borderites volleyball team lost to Oak Harbor in straight sets last Thursday, 17-25, 23-25, 13-25. Senior Mia Scheepens led the team with 11 kills. Sophomore Ankia Hagen contributed three kills and four solo blocks. On Saturday, the Borderites lost 3-0 against Ferndale, 22-25,1825,16-25. The Borderites record sits at 1-2. The Borderites are scheduled

to play again February 24 at Squalicum at 7 p.m. and Saturday, February 27, at home against Meridian.

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The Blaine police department will most likely be understaffed over the next few months, as the department is currently looking to fill two officer openings, and expects a third opening later this spring. Blaine police sergeant Michael Munden said the openings occurred after two officers left for other law enforcement positions, including one who took a job at the Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office and one who took a position in Alaska. The third position will open in April after lieutenant Ryan King retires and is replaced by another officer who will be promoted, opening up an entry-level position. The department typically has 14 commissioned officers. The department announced it was hiring in early February. Munden said although the department will be understaffed in the short term, it expects to be able to cover every shift and meet emergency needs. He also said it is not uncommon for a department to lose two or three officers in a year. “After losing a few, we might go

a few years without losing anyone,” he said. In its candidate search, Munden said the department has received 21 applications from people with no previous policing experience, and three applications from people with law enforcement backgrounds. If the department hires someone with no previous experience, the new employee must receive a year of training, Munden said, including five months at a police academy. The process of filling the empty positions is expected to take longer than usual: Munden said due to the financial impact the pandemic has had on the city budget, the department does not have the ability to fill all of the openings at once. Nationally, many police departments have reported having more difficulty hiring qualified officers, according to a 2019 report by the Police Executive Research Forum. Munden said this is happening mostly in larger cities like Seattle and less so in smaller communities like Blaine. “Many officers are now looking to leave big cities and work in smaller communities,” he said. “Historically, the opposite has

been true.” Hiring issues are also happening at the county sheriff’s office, according to spokesperson Deb Slater. Slater said a decrease in the number of candidates applying alongside an increase in competition from other agencies, with some offering signing bonuses, is causing the office to reevaluate its

recruitment and outreach. The sheriff’s office currently has four vacancies – two in patrol and two in corrections – it is looking to fill as quickly as possible, Slater said. Due to these vacancies, the department has made a number of cutbacks on special(See Hiring, page 15)

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The Northern Light • February 25 - March 3, 2021

Garden

A monthly special section in The Northern Light

Your go-to guide to start spring gardening with the best soil By Rhiannon Allen

Are you eager to start your outdoor seeds and plantings? Many like broad beans, calendula and cilantro can go in the ground right now, provided that the soil temperature is at least 50 F. (Did I mention that a soil thermometer is a great investment?) Before you plant, prepare your garden beds. Loosen the soil and either remove or turn in unwanted matter like annual weeds. And you’ve taken care of any necessary soil texture and pH amendments for your plant choices, of

course. So, you’re ready to go, right? Not so fast … you’ll need to buy a Rapitest. A Rapitest tests soil pH and three other tests: N-P-K. These three letters stand for nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P), and potassium (K) – three elements that plants need for healthy growth. While these three are not the only nutrients that plants use, they are the three that plants need in abundance. Fortunately, all are amenable to home testing without the time and expense of a professional soil test. These three elements are be-

hind the numbers on fertilizer packages (e.g., 3-2-2) that denote the amounts of N, P and K ,respectively in a fertilizer. Fertilizers that supply two or more of the three elements are called ‘all purpose.’ The actual numbers indicate the percent of the fertilizer’s weight that each element can claim. The numbers don’t add up to 100 percent because of fillers and other substances. The key to selecting a fertilizer is to examine the relative amount of each element, not the absolute amount. The absolute numbers will affect the rate at which you apply the

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fertilizer. You already knew that you are supposed to read the information on application rate, right? Let’s tackle the first number. You might remember from high school chemistry that nitrogen is a prominent component of many organic compounds, along with carbon, hydrogen and oxygen. It’s no surprise, then, that adequate amounts of nitrogen result in more plant tissue – meaning plant growth. Plants use nitrogen to build leaves, stems and roots. Nitrogen is also a notable element in chlorophyll, so it is necessary for photosynthesis. When you think of nitrogen, think primarily ‘green stuff.’ Although our atmosphere contains abundant nitrogen, plants cannot absorb or use nitrogen directly from it. They can only absorb nitrogen that has been washed into the soil and converted to a usable organic compound by bacteria in the soil or in the roots of ‘nitrogen-fixing’ plants. Since leaves contain large amounts of nitrogen once it’s been converted, digging that ‘green stuff’ back into the soil either directly or via composting will also supply nitrogen that can be used by new plants. This is behind the practice of ‘cover cropping.’ Cover crops are sown on barren ground in early autumn, left to grow over the remainder of the year, and then tilled back into the ground in advance of direct sowing or planting of new plants. Legumes like peas and beans and a couple of other nitrogen-fixing cover crops like radish are especially valuable for supplying rapidly available nitrogen as you till them into the soil and they break down. Clearly, cover crops are not used in perennial beds. But cover cropping is a good practice for annual garden beds and for preparing a new garden patch. Keep this in mind next late summer and early autumn as you harvest or think of preparing a new planting bed. Without cover cropping or amendments, our constant cultivation of new plants can easily delete the amount of usable nitrogen in the soil. Even without soil testing, you might notice a nitrogen deficiency in poor growth or yellow leaves. Subsequently you, dear gardener, might need to supply nitrogen -deficient soil with additives like kelp, composted chicken manure or a commercial fertilizer. But please don’t add nitrogen unless you know that your soil is deficient. Excessive growth from nitrogen can result in poor flowering and fruiting because the bulk of the plant’s resources are devoted to using all that nitrogen (See Garden, next page)

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Fire safety for family members needing assistance When fire happens in the home, every second counts to ensure everyone remains safe. As part of your home fire escape plan, the state fire marshal’s office encourages you to include steps for helping family members who may need extra assistance getting outside to a designated gathering location. Consider the following: • Install smoke alarms and alerting devices that include strobe lights or bed shakers to alert people who are deaf or hard of hearing and may not be able to hear an active smoke alarm. • Use the test button on your smoke alarms to ensure everyone is familiar with the sound. The

continuous high-decibel smoke alarm sounds may cause family members who are blind or who have low vision to become disoriented. • Keep mobility devices such as walkers, canes, and wheelchairs in close proximity to sleeping locations, so they are easily accessible in case of an emergency. Keep a phone within reach, and practice getting outside of the home in less than two minutes. • It may be safer for family members who require extra assistance to sleep in a ground floor bedroom to make exiting the home safer. For more information, contact the state fire marshal’s office at 360/596-3929.

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The Northern Light • February 25 - March 3, 2021

Border ...

Department of Homeland Security announced the border extension in a February 19 tweet. The closure extends to the U.S./Mexico border as well. At the time of the extension, the U.S. had 27,737,875 confirmed cases of Covid-19 since the beginning of the pandemic, according to February 19 CDC data. The increase of Covid-19 cases in the U.S. over the past seven days, 503,096, was 60 percent of Canada’s entire 837,497 confirmed cases during the pandemic, according to CDC and February 18 Canadian government data. The U.S. had a rate of 8,355 confirmed cases per 100,000 people since the start of the pandemic, triple Canada’s rate of 2,204 cases per 100,000, according to the CDC and Canadian government. New border regulations Canada also implemented new travel restrictions February 15 that require a negative Covid-19 test for non-essential travelers, with an exemption provid-

From page 1

unite, similar to Canadian exemptions; • Allow property owners to maintain their properties across the border; • Develop reciprocal access to transit through boundary waters; • Permit Point Roberts residents to more easily travel into the mainland U.S.; • Advocate for U.S. students enrolled in Canadian schools to cross the border for school; • Ensure U.S. cruises can dock in Canada for technical or services stops if both parties follow CDC and Canadian health guidelines. This would only occur when U.S. cruises safely resume service. In addition to DelBene, signatories included Rick Larsen (WA-02), Pramila Jayapal (WA07), Derek Kilmer (WA-06), Kim Schrier (WA-08), Marilyn Strickland (WA-10) and Adam Smith (WA-09). Both Canada’s minister of public safety Bill Blair and the U.S.

s Canadian Armed Forces at the Peace Arch border crossing on February 22. ed to Point Roberts residents. People other than essential workers crossing into Canada by land will need to show a negative Covid-19 test result within 72 hours of travel, according to the Canadian government. Canadian Armed Forces began helping the Public Health

Agency of Canada (PHAC) with setting up the Covid-19 testing sites at the Peace Arch border crossing February 22, according to a PHAC media release. PHAC said the military will not be involved in any test, quarantine or enforcement measures. Mandatory hotel quarantines

Photo by John Kageorge

for passengers flying into Canada began February 22 and requires travelers to first quarantine in a government-authorized hotel for three nights after entering Canada. The hotel quarantine only applies to travelers entering Canada by air.

U.S. airman with sexual misconduct warrant arrested near border 11, on a fugitive from justice warrant, according to jail records. Wilson had a warrant out for his arrest issued February 9 by the Oakland County Sheriff’s Office in Michigan for criminal sexual misconduct of an incapacitated victim and another by the U.S. Marshal’s Office for desertion, according an Air Force Times story. According to the Times, in-

By Ian Haupt U.S. Border Patrol agents arrested a U.S. Air Force airman attempting to cross the border to evade criminal sexual misconduct and military desertion charges. Blaine police officers booked Ian Mitchell Wilson, 20, into Whatcom County Jail February

vestigators searched Wilson’s apartment in the Las Vegas area and found empty packaging for camping supplies. It was believed Wilson fled for the border February 10. Border Patrol agents intercepted Wilson a day later on February 11. Around 3:30 p.m. February 11, Blaine police officers responded to the 100 block of North Harvey Road to assist

with a warrant arrest, public information officer Tami Bhachu said in an email. Border agents turned Wilson over to the Blaine police department. Officers transported and booked Wilson into Whatcom County Jail. Wilson’s vehicle, which was blocking a lane of travel on the cross street to North Harvey Road, was removed by a towing

company and impounded, since no one was available to remove it, Bhachu said. An Oakland County Sheriff’s Office spokesperson told the Times that the office hopes to extradite Wilson to be arraigned in Michigan. Wilson is being held in lieu of $200,000 bail at Whatcom County Jail, according to the jail roster.

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Whatcom The folks who brought back the 4th of July County Council mandates curbside pickup

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Whatcom County Council has approved changes to county code that will eliminate exemptions to mandatory garbage pickup in Point Roberts. At their June 5 meeting, council heard from an almost evenly split 15 community members on the proposal, which would establish a mandatory minimum service level of a 32-gallon can of garbage to be picked up twice-monthly and billed through the property tax roll. Opponents of the proposal cited a number of reasons for their opposition, primarily that the minimum service level was FREE Community Newspaper of Blaine and Birch Bay July 27 - August 2, 2017 too high. “This exceeds the needs of 80 percent of those surveyed (in a 2016 onHHHECRWSSHHH Postal Customer PRSRT STD line survey sponsored by the county solid U. S. Postage PAID waste division) who self-haul or use tags,” IN THIS Permit NO. 87 Kimberly Butts said. Blaine, WA 98230 Ken Calder, also opposed to the chang- s Back in 1976, a group of civic-minded people got together to plan a 4th of July celebration, the first since 1916. On June 20, they had a reunion at Ruby White’s house. See story, page 16. Standing, from l.: Fred DeHaan, Rosy Negron, Carla Scherer, Pauli DeHaan, George es, submitted a petition signed by 364 sea- Scherer, Pat Jorgensen, Doreen Peltier. Seated: Norma Peltier, Ruby White, Kris Manning. Photo by Shelley Damewood sonal and full-time residents asking that council delay the decision until September to allow a recently formed solid waste subcommittee of the Point Roberts Community Advisory Committee to continue to look at the issue. erts hospital district on June 26 that Unity according to Unity Care. Cites client base and “increasing Those in favor of the change as well as Care NW would end its contract to proThe number of people being served at community turmoil” county staff pointed out that PRCAC had vide services on the Point as of December the Point Roberts Clinic, as well as the been pondering the garbage collection B y M e g O l s O n 31, 2018, but would provide services on a number of visits, have been declining, acfor over two years, held numerous public a n d P a t g r u B B month-to-month basis if needed until June cording to the resolution. The number of meetings, sponsored an online survey and 30, 2019 and help with a possible transi- visits per year shrank from 1176 to 1033 B y S t e fa n i e D O n a h u e sent out a mailer. Unity Care NW is done with the Point tion to an alternative service provider. between 2015 and 2017, which is deAre impact fees the key to revital“There have been numerous opportuni- Roberts clinic. According to the June 25 resolution, the (See Hospital, page 8) izing downtown and incentivizing ties for people to put in their two cents’ Citing declining use, a disproportionate Point Roberts Clinic does not fit with growth in Blaine? worth,” Arthur Reber said. “This process administrative burden and “communi- the other clinics Unity Care NW operThe question was at the hearthas of been an very thorough and collaborative,” ty turmoil,” the board of directors of the ates in Ferndale and Bellingham, which hour-long discussion between Blaine City said taxpayers’ association president Mark non-profit health care provider voted at its it described as “patient centered mediCouncil and city staff at a special meetRobbins. Chamber of commerce president June 25 meeting to discontinue the con- cal homes.” Close to half of the visits to allpointbulletin.com ing held July 24. Not yet ready to make Dee Gough said her association also sup- tract to operate the Point Roberts Clinic. the Point Roberts clinic are for urgent facebook.com/allpointbulletin a decision, council voted unanimousported Notice was delivered to the Point Rob- care, and not for primary medical care, ly during a separate meeting that eve-the proposal, agreeing that mandatrash pickup was the obvious solution ning to request that city staff drafttory a proto the posal based on four types of impact feesperennial problem of dumping garon the roadsides. and incentive programs – the bage council Classifieds ........................................ 20 Hegedus with the Whatcom County will either approve, deny or modifyJeff the Coming Up ...................................... 19 Health Department said by establishing a B y M e g O l s O n running three weekends in August. proposal in a few months. Garden ............................................. 15 mandatory minimum service level for all Kiniski’s Reef Tavern is partnering with Impact fees are one-time charges that Library ............................................ 18 properties, as determined by “The Point Roberts Arts and Music the foundation, offering a location, plancounties, cities and towns imposedeveloped on dewhich Obituaries ........................................ 22 velopers. The funds are used to extendproperties have a water connection, Festival is back on the water,” says Arts ning assistance and funds for this year’s it would public services to support growth. In lead to vendor stability because Foundation founder and festival organizer event. “We decided to make it longer so Opinion .............................................. 4 more more people can enjoy it,” said tavern Washington state, impact fees can be usedusers would support the system. Craig Jacks. Seniors ............................................ 18 After being put on the shelf for a year, manager Allison Calder. The first weekend on public streets, roads, publicly-owned Tides ................................................ 10 parks, open space, recreation facilities, (See Garbage, page 7) the festival will be back for its 23rd year, (See Arts & Music, page 14) school facilities and fire protection facilities. Impact fees and other development incentives have already been written into s Droves of sand sculptors took part in the Birch Bay Sand Sculpture contest July 22-23. More photos on page 15. Photo by Chuck Kinzer the Blaine’s comprehensive plan, which details how to accommodate growth over the next 20 years. AFTER PARADE FAMILY ACTIVITIES: BEGIN THE DAY AT THE “These are things we’ve been looking at H Breakwaters Bar & Grill Community Center 1437 Gulf Rd. for a while,” said community development STARTS AT 12 NOON along POINT ROBERTS MARINA at Point Roberts Marina. director Michael Jones. “The comprehen-Pancake Breakfast 7:15-11:15 am PREP benefit Gulf Rd. from Marine Dr. to Tyee Dr. AT 10:30 PM Flag Raising Ceremony 11:30 am featuring PR Winds child will H to Kiniski’s Tavern sive plan and what you’ve already adoptbe turned away on the basis of a not being able pay forReef lunch, includBy Oliver lazenBy ed recognizes the idea that there has to be zero or negative balance account.” ing anything from stamping kids’ hands enough financial capacity of the city to conIn some school districts, if a stuThose guidelines aren’t new, but they’re as a reminder to bring money, to denying tinue to do its job and provide the services dent doesn’t have lunch, they don’t in writing for the first time in response to them a lunch tray. Blaine’s guidelines say students won’t and things that it needs to do while taking eat. In others, they get a cheese sand- new U.S. Department of Agriculture regthis into consideration.” wich to eat in front of their classmates ulations that require school districts to get turned away at the lunch counter, even The city has already started developing who are toting trays of corndogs, baked communicate, in writing, what they’ll do if they already have a negative balance on their account. Instead, they’ll either a revised impact fee ordinance out of a re- beans, fruit and vegetables. when students can’t pay for lunch. quest from the state legislature for all citFor the most part, that’s not the case at The new federal rules are aimed at end- get a regular meal and some more debt Blaine schools. The district’s guidelines for ing “lunch shaming,” a term for a variety (See Fees, page 2) dealing with unpaid lunch debt state, “No of practices that single students out for (See Lunch, page 6)

ISSUE

Turn your ballots in by August 1, page 5

City council considers ways to spur local economy

A visitor’s guide to Blaine and Birch Bay, page 7

What you should know about gardening in August, page 9

YEARS

Birch Bay Sand Sculpture crowd clinic contract Unity Care NWcontest decidesdraws againstarenewing

Online Inside

Arts and music fest makes a comeback

Point Roberts July 4 Happy Birthday USA PARADE

Tall ship Lady Washington sets sail for annual maritime festival B y S t e fa n i e D O n a h u e In just a matter of days, tall ship Lady Washington will appear in Drayton Harbor – the vessel is a full-scale replica of the first American ship to touch land on the west coast of North America in 1788. Lady Washington typically pairs with the Hawaiian Chieftain for trips along

the coast, but crews had to leave the steel-clad Hawaiian vessel moored in Port Townsend for routine repair, said operations director with Grays Harbor Historical Seaport, Caitlin Stanton. Grays Harbor Historical Seaport organizes trips along the west coast to educate the public about maritime history and traditions. Crews maneuvering Lady Washington

through the Pacific’s brisk waters are set to make a stop in Blaine from August 3 to 6 during Drayton Harbor Days, offering a slew of local cruise excursions and tours. Here’s a look at what’s in store: Vessel Tours: The tours are offered throughout Lady Washington’s stay in Blaine. Stanton said they offer the public

INSIDE

School district publishes policy against “lunch shaming”

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All advertising in this newspaper is subject to Allreal realestate/rentals estate/rentals advertisthe Federal Fair Housing Act of 1968 as amended, which makes ing in this newspaper is subject ittoillegal to advertise any preference, limitation or discrimination the Federal Fair Housing Act based on race, color, religion, sex, handicap familial status or naof 1968 as amended, which makes it illegal tional origin, or an intention to make any such preference, limitation or discrimto advertise any preference, limitation or disination. This newspaper will not knowingly accept any advertisement for real crimination based on race, color, religion, estate which is in violation of the law. Our readers are hereby informed that all sex, handicap, familial or national ori-on an equal opportunity dwellings advertised in thisstatus newspaper are available gin, or an intention to make any such prefbasis. To complain of discrimination, call HUD toll-free at 1-800-877-0246. erence, 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.

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Inslee signs Covid-19 relief bill, allocating $2.2 billion in federal funding By Patric Haerle Additional relief in response to the Covid-19 pandemic is on its way. Governor Jay Inslee signed a bill into law February 19 that appropriates $2.2 billion federal dollars to be used for K-12 schools, public health, assistance to individuals and families, housing and business assistance. “The process of getting to a post pandemic era has just begun,” Inslee said. “And we intend to come out of this pandemic stronger, in part because of this legislation.” The package distributes $365 million in emergency eviction, rental and utility assistance and $240 million for small businesses assistance grants. “We have saved thousands of lives in Washington state, and I’m hoping this now helps thousands of businesses,” Inslee said at the

signing of the bill. The bill includes $714 million for K-12 schools – requiring schools to outline a reopening and student recovery plan in the process – and $618 million for public health, including $438 million for testing and contact tracing and $68 million for vaccines. Inslee emphasized the safety of reopening schools. “Parents are really wondering, ‘Is it safe to go back to school?’ And the answer is, unequivocally yes.” Inslee said. “If a school embraces these protocols that have been so successful. “ Inslee cited the more than 200,000 students and 135 school districts across the state that have begun on-site instruction with minimal transmission, saying research shows children may be safer in school than out. Also in the package is $65 million for immigration services,

$50 million for childcare, and $26 million for food banks and similar programs. The chair of the Senate Ways and Means Committee, senator Christine Rolfes (D-Bainbridge Island), praised the Legislatures’ timeline and cross-chamber, bipartisan work. “This was an effort, among Democrats and Republicans, the House and the Senate, the Legislature and the Executive Branch, and is an example of all of us pulling together to get the job done for our communities,” Rolfes said. The Office of Financial Management said renters or businesses that need help will likely see the money in the next few weeks, depending on federal guidance. The Washington State Journal is a non-profit news website managed by the Washington Newspaper Publishers Association Foundation. Learn more at wastatejournal.org.

Suicide prevention team moves forward By Joseph Claypoole A Washington Youth Suicide Review Team (WYSRT) is one step closer to reality after legislators passed substitute HB 1354 out of committee in a 11-2 vote. Representative Gina Mosbrucker (D-Goldendale) the prime sponsor of the bill, saw the bill introduced into committee February 1. Mosbrucker’s bill would establish the WYSRT to review the circumstances related to suicides occurring among youth up to age 24. The team would review medical records, conduct voluntary home interviews with parents and utilize other strategies to discover if any common factors exist among young people who commit suicide. “The goal of the bill is to literally lay out every suicide case under 24 in the state of Washington during 2020,” Mosbrucker said. “And to figure out what’s the nex-

Shooting ... From page 1

and he had not seen her subsequently, according to the APC. Afterward, the woman told Francis that Avena had raped her “but she refused to cooperate.” She added that she had told Siergiey on the morning of his arrest that

us because kids are struggling ... far more than they used to.” After collaborating with advocacy groups and concerned citizens, a substitute bill was introduced and passed out of committee on February 15. Changes to the bill focused on increasing privacy protections around medical records and other documents. In addition, the substitute bill also requires the team to increase the range of youth for possible review to 25 and adds a review of access to lethal means to their analysis. According to Mosbrucker, the addition of access to lethal means alongside autopsy reports and other review strategies are extremely important for suicide prevention. Representative Lillian Ortiz-Self (D-Mukilteo) said the Washington Legislative Youth Advisory Council was in strong support of the substitute bill, but asked that youth be included in the review team.

she planned to divorce him but would not cooperate with the shooting investigation because she did not want to incriminate him. Sheriff’s deputies and the Bellingham police officers later contacted Siergiey who turned himself in around 1 a.m. the following day after negotiations with deputies.

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“Very clearly, they just said, ‘This is about us and we need to have a voice,’” Ortiz-Self said. However, finding a youth tied to the issue who wants to participate is going to be difficult, according to Mosbrucker. “[SHB 1354] says that we can add an additional member and it will be voted on by the team,” Mosbrucker said. “We don’t want to re-trigger [anyone], so that’s my only concern ... but, we want to make sure their voice is heard.” Representative Tom Dent (R-Moses Lake) said he thought some Republicans might have concerns about the cost of the program. Mosbrucker said her team is working on revising costs and expects to present an acceptable proposal when the bill gets to the House Appropriations Committee. The Washington State Journal is a non-profit news website managed by the Washington Newspaper Publishers Association Foundation. Learn more at wastatejournal.org.

OBITUARIES Curtis Alexander Smith

April 8, 1961–February 19, 2021 Curt passed away unexpectedly at his apartment in Bellingham of natural causes on Friday morning, February 19. He lived in Blaine most of his life, working for years at Justesen Industries on Yew Avenue. Curt is survived by his father, Curt Sr.; son Cory of Bellingham; sister Lewann Eggert; brother Clayton (Tony) Smith, stepsisters Alleen Sims and Deanna Mooney; stepbrother Steve Herrin; granddaughter Alicia; numerous aunts, uncles and cousins. He was predeceased by his mother, Betty (Morris) and stepmother Nancy (McMillan). Due to COVID, there will be no funeral, but a private family memorial will be held in March. The family acknowledges his friend Lori Ouillette with God’s word from the Bible, Matthew 18:3-6. Special gratitude to Monique Wilhelme who saved his life several years ago. Please donate any memorial funds to the Lighthouse Mission in Bellingham in Curt’s name.

Claudia J. Hollod February 11, 2021

Claudia Jean McAulay Hollod, age 71, died peacefully at home on February 11, 2021 with family by her side. To read Claudia’s full obituary and to share your memories, please visit molesfarewelltributes.com.

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Sheriff’s deputies booked Siergiey into Whatcom County Jail where he was booked on charges of criminal attempt to commit homicide and drive-by shooting, which are Class A and B felonies. Siergiey is being held without bail, according to jail booking data. Siergiey’s arraignment is scheduled for 9 a.m. on March 5.

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The Northern Light • February 25 - March 3, 2021

Sheriff’s Reports February 18, 3:25 a.m.: Traffic stop on Birch Bay-Lynden Road and Portal Way, Custer. February 18, 11:17 a.m.: Sex offender registration on Mountvue Road. February 18, 4 p.m.: Security check on Fir Way. February 18, 6:14 p.m.: Sex offender registration on Highland Drive. February 18, 10:25 a.m.: Alarm audible on Whitehorn Way. February 18, 7:53 p.m.: Mental in progress on Birch Bay Drive. February 19, 12:37 a.m.: Suspicious circumstances on Harborview Road. February 19, 1:14 a.m.: Suspicious vehicle on Ham Road. February 19, 5 a.m.: Domestic verbal on Terrace Avenue. February 19, 10:43 a.m.: Burglary cold call on California Terrace. February 19, 11:29 a.m.: Kin notification on Ostrich Trail, Custer. February 19, 12:38 p.m.: Watch for on Harborview Road.

February 19, 1:57 p.m.: Burglary cold call on Fir Way. February 19, 3:34 p.m.: Domestic order violence cold call on Starfish Lane. February 19, 3:46 p.m.: Juvenile problem on Skeena Way. February 20, 12:35 a.m.: Mental in progress on Serene Place, Custer. February 20, 1:48 p.m.: Senile subject on Loomis Trail Road. February 20, 2:36 p.m.: Landlord tenant dispute on Arnie Road. February 20, 8 p.m.: Sex offender registration on Lincoln Road. February 21, 1:21 a.m.: Music in progress on Birch Bay Drive. February 21, 3:41 a.m.: Alarm silent on Birch Bay-Lynden Drive. February 21, 2:44 p.m.: Welfare check on West Badger and Mark Worth roads, Custer. February 21, 4:11 p.m.: Alarm audible on McGee Road, Custer. February 21, 7:52 p.m.: Harassment on Birch Bay-Lynden Drive. February 21, 8:57 p.m.: Alarm audible on Harborview Road.

February 21, 9:11 p.m.: Welfare check on Frances Lane. February 22, 7:23 a.m.: Suspicious circumstances on East Street. February 22, 9:30 a.m.: Theft cold call on Blaine Road. February 22, 10:17 a.m.: Theft cold call on Jackson Road. February 22, 11:21 a.m.: Welfare check on Loomis Trail Road, Custer. February 22, 11:44 p.m.: Civil problem on West 34th Avenue. February 22, 2:34 p.m.: Juvenile problem on Seashell Way. February 22, 9:46 p.m.: Security check on Jackson Road. February 23, 12:35 a.m.: Suspicious person on Valley View Road, Custer. February 23, 4:07 a.m.: Request for law enforcement on Seaview Drive. February 23, 9:44 a.m.: Threat cold call on Loft Lane. February 23, 1:15 p.m.: Domestic verbal on North Golf Course Road. February 23, 1:22 p.m.: Vehicle inspection on Sweet Road.

45. Edible seaweed 46. Chinese politician 47. Tested for fertility 50. Glove worn with medieval armor 54. Basaltic lavas 55. Small shoaling fish 56. Surrendered 57. Taxi 59. Potato part 60. Female sheep 61. Trouble or difficulty 62. Put into service 63. Soviet Socialist Republic 64. 17th letter of Greek alphabet 65. Type of student DOWN 1. Frighten 2. Partner to corned beef 3. Parts 4. Agrees to a demand 5. Elected official 6. Navigator’s tool 7. Relating to heat 8. Attractive 9. Wealthy US merchant

13. Engine additive 14. A passage with access only at one end 17. Midway between northeast and east 18. Cool! 20. Brazilian NBAer 22. NW Pennsylvania city 27. Young dog 28. Mimic 29. Large truck 31. The NFL’s Newton 32. One and only 33. Diego, Francisco, Anselmo 37. Julie __, actress 38. More nourishing 39. Compound 40. A small carrier attached to the side of a motorcycle 41. Object of fear or alarm 42. __ Ladd, actor 43. Sacred place 44. A way to express enjoyment 47. Trigonometric function 48. A team’s best pitcher

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 newly 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. 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. Prizes for best ‘80s dress up, team name. Register wcls.libcal.com/event/7517551 or call 206-850-8590. The Odds Are Against You Golf Tournament: Saturday, February 27, 9 a.m., Loomis Trail Golf Course, 4342 Loomis Trail Road. Four-person scramble tournament. $60 public, $35 member includes green fee, range balls, tournament payout and field prizes. Info: golfloomis.com. Virtual Community Meeting With The Superintendent: Monday, March 1, 6 p.m. The community is invited to join Christopher Granger, Blaine School District superintendent and learn updates at the school and ask questions. Info and Zoom link at blainesd.org. Blaine Chamber of Commerce Virtual Meeting: Wednesday, March 3, noon. Asche Rider, associate director of WWU Small Business Development Center will share info and updates on Covid-19 and resources available for businesses. Meeting ID on blainechamber.com.

Crossword ACROSS 1. __ fi: popular genre 4. Curved shape 7. Defunct airline 10. Beverage receptacle 11. Corporate bigwig 12. Belong to he 13. They cover cuts 15. Cost per mille 16. Walk into 19. Power-producing machine 21. Part of one’s character perceived by others 23. Emotionally appealed to 24. Protected 25. Wrestling icon Okerlund 26. Thailand’s former name 27. Muscle weaknesses 30. Chooses 34. American film studio 35. Expression of satisfaction 36. Mythical winged horse 41. Ballplayers

Coming up

49. Intersecting points 51. Roundishly shaped 52. Adam’s partner 53. God of battle (Scandinavian) 58. Human hormone ANSWERS: THENORTHERNLIGHT.COM

Tides February 26 - March 4 at Blaine. Not for navigation. 49° 0’ 0”N - 122° 46’ 0”W DATE

TIME

HEIGHT

TIME

HEIGHT

Fr 26 5:45 am 9.6 11:10 am 5.8

3:52 pm 8.4 10:59 pm -0.9

Sa 27 6:11 am 9.8 11:48 am 5.0

4:50 pm 8.5 11:39 pm -0.4

Su 28 6:37 am 9.8 12:26 pm 4.0

5:48 pm 8.5

Mo 1 12:19 am 0.4

7:03 am 9.8

1:08 pm 3.0

6:50 pm 8.4

Tu 2 1:01 am 1.5

7:29 am 9.7

1:52 pm 2.1

7:54 pm 8.2

We 3 1:45 am 2.9

7:57 am 9.6

2:40 pm 1.2

9:08 pm 8.0

Th 4 2:31 am 4.3

8:27 am 9.4

3:34 pm 0.6 10:32 pm 7.9

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. 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. 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: 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 15 to 21, 0.85 inches of precipitation was recorded. The 2021 year-to-date precipitation 8.81 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 53°F on February 21 with a low of 30°F on February 17. Average high was 48°F and average low was 40°F. Courtesy Birch Bay Water & Sewer Dist.

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 25 - March 3, 2021 • thenorthernlight.com

Blaine corrections deputy provided inmate with contraband for months, documents show By Ian Haupt A Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office corrections deputy arrested for smuggling items into the jail and communicating with a female inmate had allegedly been in contact with her for months, according to the affidavit of probable cause (APC) filed in Whatcom County Superior Court. On February 8, sheriff’s office deputies arrested Christopher Frederic Baetz, 41, on suspicion of introducing contraband into a correctional facility in the second degree. “Members of the sheriff’s office charged with the custody, care, and well-being of inmates are held to very high standards,” sheriff Bill Elfo said in February 9 media release on the arrest. “The criminal conduct of Mr. Baetz in this matter represents a complete abrogation of those standards, expectations, and organizational norms. His actions are not representative of the value of other sheriff’s office employees. I appreciate that this incident was quickly reported and swiftly dealt with.” According to the department, Baetz has worked for the sheriff’s office since 2006 and will be released from duty pending appropriate administrative action. In a follow-up email to The Northern Light, sheriff’s office spokesperson Deb Slater said the sheriff’s office followed standard protocol and placed Baetz on administrative leave effective February 8. Slater said there have been no other complaints or internal affair investigations involving Baetz. On February 7, an inmate at the minimum-security Whatcom County Work Center handed a letter to another corrections deputy relating to concerns about

a female inmate, according to the affidavit. The letter said the woman had been in possession of a cell phone for months. Deputies searched the three-person unit where the female inmate was incarcerated. Upon strip-searching the woman, deputies found a bag of prescription and nonprescription medications, according to the APC. During the search, a deputy witnessed the woman attempt to hide a cell phone. A vape pen, a number of phone chargers, an electronic cigarette pen, two Velcro sticky pads, one electronic cigarette pouch, a bottle of e-juice, two individually packaged marijuana gummies and a pair of headphones were also found. After being questioned, the woman admitted to owning the contraband items and told deputies they could identify who was giving her the items by looking at text messages on the phone. She said it was a deputy but would not identify which one it was. A deputy looked through the phone and found messages from four different people and was able to tell it was someone named “Batman” who was bringing the contraband. The deputy found texts from “Batman” stating who he was working with on certain dates, and photos from him along with other personal information that allowed the deputy to identify Baetz as “Batman.” The first reporting inmate confirmed Baetz as the deputy supplying contraband. The woman told the investigating officers that she and Baetz had been passing notes for several months while he was on duty. Baetz would also call into the unit on the attorney phone at night and talk for hours with the woman, the inmate said. The next day, February 8, sher-

iff’s office detectives conducted a further investigation. During the interview, the woman said she had a panic attack after her first month of incarceration, and Baetz calmed her down by talking to her. She said they started a “genuine friendship” after that and would talk about their lives. Baetz and the woman started exchanging letters about three months ago that detailed their lives, kids and other personal information. The woman said two of the letters were of a sexual nature – Baetz describing sexual fantasies. She said they would also talk about normal things that got her through the “day-to-day stuff.” The woman asked Baetz to get her a cell phone in mid-January. He brought it to her in a brown paper bag during breakfast, and she used it to talk to him by text and phone calls. She also sent about a dozen photos to Baetz. The woman said they would talk both while he was on and off duty. Baetz started providing her with contraband in a brown paper bag at breakfast, during clothing and towel exchanges and he would place things in her shower. After the woman told him about her anxiety, Baetz brought her three marijuana gummies to help, and she allegedly ate one. The woman sent Baetz $45 through PayPal because she didn’t want him to pay for everything. He used the $45 to buy food online that he was going to bring in to her, but it hadn’t arrived by the time of his arrest. Baetz was arrested upon arriving to work and was booked into Skagit County Jail. He was released on personal recognizance and has an arraignment hearing set for Friday, February 26 at 9 a.m., according to court records.

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Facilitated online book discussions Think, Drink, Dine:

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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

Full event list & registration: whatcomreads.org Read the book. Join the conversation.

Hiring ... From page 7

ty assignments, including a Point Roberts deputy, a detective and a mental health deputy. Slater said these positions will be reassigned when the current vacancies are filled. The pandemic has also continued to be an issue to some degree. The county government froze five corrections positions because of pandemic budget concerns. The sheriff’s office was also concerned about restricting in-person training of new hires at the state’s training program for entry-level officers, but Slater said virtual training became easier as the pandemic progressed. The virtual shift has allowed the office to streamline some of the hiring processes, Slater said, with virtual scheduling allowing for at-home written testing and remote physical testing at gyms. “Recruitment has become more challenging,” Slater said. “But the first step in the application process has also been very successful pivoting through the pandemic.”

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The Northern Light • February 25 - March 3, 2021

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