The Northern Light: March 4-10, 2021 by Point Roberts Press

March 4 - 10, 2020

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Vaccine updates, page 3

Blaine Library reopens, page 5

Birch Bay graffiti suspect caught, page 10

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

A new convenience store with a difference... Inslee pauses phase movement in reopening plan By Grace McCarthy All regions in Washington will remain in Phase 2, the most advanced of the two-step “Healthy Washington” reopening plan. “We’re making this pause in recognition of the fact that we’ve made incredible progress knocking down the infection rate of Covid in the last several weeks,” governor Jay Inslee said during a February 24 media conference. “We know we need to follow the science and data in making these decisions but I think it’s clear we’ve had enough success in recent weeks to be able to put a pause on any regions that go backwards.” Although regions wouldn’t move back into Phase 1, the governor didn’t say if a third phase would be created. “During this weeks-long pause, we will evaluate the situation and work with our public health partners and stakeholders on how to continue going forward,” he said. Inslee said he started the reopening plan because the state was struggling under very high Covid-19 numbers. The announcement comes after the north region, which includes Whatcom County, and five other regions entered Phase 2, which allows for indoor dining at 25 percent capacity among other indoor openings, on February 14. This phase upgrade meant the entire state was in Phase 2 because the West and Puget Sound regions, which cover Seattle and Olympia, moved phases February 1. The governor introduced the “Healthy Washington” plan that grouped counties into regions in early January. Regions could advance to Phase 2 if they met three of the four metrics: 10 percent decreasing trend in case rates per 100,000 people, 10 percent decrease in Covid-19 hospital admissions, ICU occupancy rates lower than 90 percent, and test positivity rates lower than 10 percent. Since the governor’s announcement, the state stopped reporting phase change metrics, which was previously reported every two weeks. At the time of entering Phase 2, the north region met all four requirements to be in the phase.

s Sukhwant Singh Gill, c., celebrates the grand opening of Blaine Mart with his family on March 1. From l; Store manager Varinderaa Sindh, grandchildren Shaanbir and Gurnoor and son Gury Gill.

Photo by Conor Wilson

Blaine Mart celebrated grand opening March 1 By Conor Wilson Blaine Mart, a new convenience store located on 2nd Street, celebrated its grand opening March 1. The store is another business opened by Sukhwant Singh Gill, who has been a business owner in Blaine since 1995. Gill currently owns the Shell gas station and Big Al’s Diner, both on D Street. Gill is also a newly appointed member of Blaine City Council. “This store will be different from our D

street gas station,” Gill said. In addition to typical convenience store product offerings, Gill said Blaine Mart will sell a wider choice of items, such as novelty and gift products, and electronics. The store also offers parcel delivery and drive-through coffee. Gill said he first had the idea for the store last year, after noticing many visitors were coming to Blaine to visit Peace Arch Park and then leaving. Gill said many businesses, including his Shell station, are in a blind spot, and can-

not be seen from the highway. He said he hopes, with the border closed and many people flocking to the park, the store can provide services to those looking to see friends and family. In the future, Gill plans to sell Blainethemed items for tourists and selling Indian and Fijian groceries, noting these foods are difficult to find locally. “There are nearly a hundred Indian families in the area and no store has these groceries,” Gill said. “We can draw people all the way from Ferndale or Lynden.” (See Mart, page 2)

By Ian Haupt At a February 25 “Coffee with the Contractor” meeting, Granite Construction’s Gairrett Orelup said the Birch Bay berm project will be completed by early April. Since the last meeting in early January, Granite Construction finished importing 205,000 tons of material for the berm, Orelup said. Workers are now planting, finishing swale work, paving around the curbs and parking spaces, and extending the path-

way on the northern end of the berm. Orelup anticipates that all landscaping and paving will be completed by March 14. “After that, all that is left is some finish striping, installing some curb stops along the parking stalls and then there’s just some miscellaneous cleanup around to get this project complete,” Orelup said. “Right now, we’re looking at a finish date of the beginning of April, end of March.” The $8.7 million project, officially called the Birch Bay Drive and Pedestrian Facility Project, is designed to protect the area

from storms and is in its second phase of construction. Granite Construction began construction in December 2019, taking a break for the summer of 2020. The Birch Bay Chamber of Commerce hosts a monthly “Coffee with the Contractor” meeting for resident’s to ask the project’s contractor and manager questions. In the February 25 meeting via Zoom, Orelup and Whatcom County Public Works engineer Jim Karcher both gave brief progress (See Berm, page 7)

Coming Up . . . . . 14 Classifieds . . . . . 11 Letters . . . . . . . . . 4 Police . . . . . . . . . 14 Sports . . . . . . . . . . 6 Tides . . . . . . . . . . 14

INSIDE

Berm construction to finish by April, contractor says

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The Northern Light • March 4 - 10, 2021

Mart ... From page 1

To celebrate the store’s opening, Gill said the store will give customers either free bread or

coffee for its first two weeks, until Monday, March 15. Gill and his son, Gury, gave away bread and milk for customers at their Shell station to help those struggling from the pandemic last spring. Gill said this giveaway is

more focused on customer appreciation. “I’ve been in business for 25 years and always gotten good community support,” Gill said. “We look forward to the future and having the same support.”

NEW APPETIZERS! NEW PASTA DISHES! NEW PIZZA CREATIONS!

EXTENDED NEW MENU

s Sukhwant Singh Gill stands behind the counter of his new store, Blaine Mart, on its opening day.

If you haven’t been in recently, our new head chef Maurice Christion and our friendly staff invite you in to try our new extended menu! We have added new pasta dishes: Baked Lasagna, Portofino Bistecca ‘Steak’, Pollo Portobella Penne and Amalfi Seafood Cioppino pasta as well as adding some new flare to our regular top choices. Three new appetizers to mention are our Marinara Meatballs, Italian ‘Nachos’ and our Polpette Di Pollo bites - all great starters to your lunch or dinner. Our sandwiches are now available all day and for pizza - we have added ‘The Gambino’ to the list.

Wednesday & Thursday 3pm-5pm check out our charcuterie board and bottle of wine special for only $25! For other promotions or to book reservations:

WWW.THERUSTICFORKEATERY.COM

Call ahead for ‘walk-in’ availability 360-332-4346

DINE IN ONLY

442 PEACE PORTAL DRIVE, BLAINE, WA. • 360-332-4346

CLOSED MONDAY • OPEN TUESDAY TO SUNDAY 11:30AM to 8:30pm (FRIDAY & SATURDaY UNTIL 9:30pm)

s Blaine Mart sells gift items and electronics, in addition to typical convenience store items. Photos by Conor Wilson

NOW OPEN! WEEKLY SPECIALS Grand Opening SPECIAL! FREE Loaf of Bread or Coffee For every customer. Thru 3/14/21.

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March 4 - 10, 2021 • thenorthernlight.com

Covid-19 in Whatcom County by school district boundaries:

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Bellingham Rate: 117 Count: 2366 s The rate is the number of confirmed Covid-19 cases per 100,000 people over the past two weeks, from February 14 to February 27. The count is the cumulative cases of Covid-19 since the start of the pandemic.

County receives more vaccines as state opens eligibility for teachers By Grace McCarthy As of February 28, Whatcom County has had a total of 6,646 confirmed cases of Covid-19 since the start of the pandemic and 83 deaths, according to Washington State Department of Health (DOH) data. Two people have died in the past week and the percent of deaths per total confirmed cases is 1.2 percent. Some school districts dropped in case rates, while others rose. Nooksack Valley school district area had the highest rate of new cases in the past two weeks, with 515 confirmed cases per 100,000 people followed by Lynden (420), Ferndale (320), Mount Baker (215), Blaine (193), Meridian (149), and Bellingham (117). The county expects at least 11,030 first doses and 1,900 second doses this week, according to health department data published March 2. About 7.1 per-

cent of county residents are fully vaccinated and 13.7 percent have received at least one shot, according to the health department. Statewide, 1,676,787 vaccine doses have been administered, with 297,469 doses administered in the past week. About 589,725 people in Washington have received two doses of the vaccine and 1,080,764 have received one dose. In the past seven days, the state has averaged administering 37,481 vaccines daily, which is 83.2 percent of its goal to vaccinate 45,000 people daily. Whatcom County administered 852 vaccines daily. Washington state has had 321,881 total confirmed cases since the start of the pandemic and 18,827 probable cases (probable cases come from an antigen test but not a molecular test). In all, 4,969 people in Washington with the virus have died as

of February 28 and 19,372 have been hospitalized. Johnson and Johnson vaccine approved The FDA approved the Johnson and Johnson vaccine February 27. The Johnson and Johnson vaccine is the third vaccine to be approved in the U.S. and only requires a single shot. The health department announced that Washington could have 60,900 Johnson and Johnson doses this week but did not know when the vaccine would arrive in Whatcom County. State letter to county recognizes Whatcom County’s low vaccine allotment The DOH recognized Whatcom County hadn’t received enough vaccines from the state in a February 28 letter to Whatcom County Health Board chair Barry Buchanan. State secretary (See Covid, page 15)

Winemaker’s Dinner Featuring Trey Busch, Winemaker Sunday, April 11 • 5-8 pm

5 courses paired with 5 wines $100 pp gratuity & tax included

Limited seating available Reservations required. Call 360-392-0955

Open Wednesday-Saturday 4-9 pm 277 G Street • Downtown Blaine www.TheVaultWine.com Follow us on log& log

UNCORKED WINEMAKER DINNER SERIES At Semiahmoo Resort • Friday, March 12

Join us for a beautiful five-course dinner paired with Lange Estate Wines at Semiahmoo’s Uncorked Winemaker Dinner Series.

Purchase tickets at Semiahmoo.com 9565 Semiahmoo Parkway, Blaine, WA

‘TIS THE SEMIAHMOO SEASON It’s the most wonderful time of the year at Semiahmoo! Through the month of December,

The Northern Light • March 4 - 10, 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. Publisher & Managing Editor Patrick Grubb publisher@pointrobertspress.com Co-publisher & Advertising Director Louise Mugar lmugar@pointrobertspress.com

Nimbus Real Estate named 2020 business of the year

s The Blaine Chamber of Commerce announced Nimbus Real Estate as the 2020 Business of the Year. From l; Blaine Chamber of Commerce board director Tim Woodward with the Nimbus Real Estate team Phill Esau, Wild Bird Charity administrator and broker; Karen Trudel, broker; and Mike Mulder, designated broker and owner. The chamber sincerely appreciated their partnership in hosting Blaine’s Indoor Holiday Market by the Sea and their continued support of the work the chamber does for the Blaine community throughout the year. The contribution from the Nimbus Real Estate team has been invaluable and it is very much appreciated. Photo by Donna Raimey

Editor Grace McCarthy grace@pointrobertspress.com

Letters

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 The Northern Light 225 Marine Drive, Suite 200, Blaine, WA 98230 Tel: 360/332-1777

The Editor: The windstorm at the beginning of February took down a tree and the sign for the Blaine Free Church Unitarian Universalist congregation on the corner of Harrison and Cedar. The new sign is up, along with a new labyrinth walk for Borderites and the Salishan neighborhood to see and enjoy. The church was built in 1929 and houses the free religious thinking that our United States forefathers envisioned when they assured our nation would house all religious thought, not having a nationalized church. When Anna Bradstreet arrived in 1633 to join her husband and father Thomas Dudley, both who would later serve as Massachusetts Bay Colony governors, she had her first glimpse of people from backgrounds other than her privileged upbringing. Once in Massachusetts these

people sought communities of like traditions, one of the reasons the 13 colonies formed as they did. Over one hundred years later, when our United States forefathers were stitching together our Constitution, many were Transcendentalists and Unitarians who wanted to protect those differing thought traditions developed during the Reformation. Unitarianism started with the signing of the Diet of Torda or the Act on Religious Freedom in Transylvania in 1568. Today, ours is a community of principles, rather than a singular path. Come visit and see our new sign. Donna Starr Blaine The Editor: For over a year we have lived under the threat of Covid-19 and even with that very real threat many people have resisted the

safeguards put in place to protect us. I too have grown tired of the isolation and discomfort. I continually am drawn to the reports, seeking good news, but the numbers continue revealing increasing totals of (See Letters, next page) Please send letters to letters@thenorthernlight.com no later than noon on Monday.

Clarification In an article titled “Blaine corrections deputy provided inmate with contraband for months, documents show,” in the February 25 issue of The Northern Light, Blaine referred to the officer’s residency. The corrections deputy worked at Whatcom County Jail.

Vol XXVI, No 37 Circulation: 10,500 copies

Circulation Independently verified by:

Next issue: March 11 Ads due: March 5

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.

March 4 - 10, 2021 • thenorthernlight.com

WELCOME BACK!

Blaine Library reopens for indoor service

In-Person Classes Start March 1 Offering private, semi-private & hybrid/online classes for all ages

Family Tree Dance • Hip Hop 4 Kidz • Ballet • Tap • Jazz Contemporary • Yoga • Low Impact Cardio • Pilates

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

ay ay ance to

Patty Macheras Retiring April 1, 2021

s Blaine Library patrons scan the shelves for books on opening day, March 1.

By Grace McCarthy The Blaine library, along with the county’s nine other libraries, opened indoor service March 1. This comes after Whatcom County moved into Phase 2 of governor Jay Inslee’s “Healthy Washington” plan in mid-February. Debby Farmer, Blaine Library branch manager, said the library’s 25 percent capacity requirement means only 10 patrons are allowed into the Blaine library at a time. In an announcement on the reopening, the Whatcom County Library System (WCLS) said everyone over the age of 2 must be masked inside the libraries, including fully vaccinated patrons. To maintain six feet of social distancing, staff are unable to help with computer assistance. It is also asked that patrons keep library visits short because of the limited capacity. WCLS announced library staff are also asked to pass a health self-assessment before work every day; staff will frequently clean high-touched surfaces; water fountains have been turned

off; lounge seating and toys have been removed; only one household can use the restroom at a time; and nonlocal newspaper subscriptions are temporarily suspended. Curbside pickup will continue in Blaine and at other branches around the county. Farmer said she expects curbside pickup, which has been in high demand, to continue after the pandemic. The Blaine library, located at 610 3rd Street, is open 1-5 p.m. Monday through Saturday. The Birch Bay bookmobile stop, at 7968 Birch Bay Drive, is open 3-7 p.m. on Wednesdays. The county libraries closed last March because of the pandemic and remained closed until late October, when they briefly opened until closing again November 23. This is the first time the libraries have opened since November. The Blaine library is also not taking book donations at this time, Farmer said. A small section of books are also for sale inside the building. For more information, visit wcls.org/info or call the Blaine library at 360/305-3637.

Congratulations on 32 years at the Blaine Library!

Photo by Grace McCarthy

You will be missed! Book

Letters ... From previous page

sickness and dead. The numbers have become so catastrophic my mind rebels. It seems impossible to place these numbers into meaningful context. With 28,608,931 sickened by Covid-19 in the U.S., it seems endless. But maybe a closer look will reveal new perspective to give us greater resolve to continue to do what is necessary. • There were 2,418 new deaths yesterday in the U.S, which equates to as if everyone in Point Roberts, Custer and Deming had died. But what if I could have saved even one life by accepting the discomfort of wearing a mask. Would I? I like to think I would. • Washington suffered 4,988 total deaths this last year from the pandemic, which translates to everyone in both Everson and Nooksack dying over the course

610 3 rd Street Paid for by Friends of Blaine Library 360.305.3637 talk/multimedia presentation

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.

NOTICE OF

FLUSHING The City of Blaine Water Division started flushing the City's water distribution system. This is accomplished by opening hydrants along the system (starting at the well fields) to move fresh water throughout the distribution system.

Monday, March 8 5:00pm – Study Session: G Street Area Locations: Sewer Improvement 6:00pm – City Council Meeting

Tuesday, March 9 8:00am – Blaine Tourism

The purpose of flushing the system is to remove any grit and debris in order to improve water quality through the distribution system.

Advisory Committee

Thursday, March 11 9:00am – Park and

Monday, March 22 6:00pm – City Council Meeting

During the city flushing program city water customers may experience a temporary low water pressure and/or cloudiness when flushing is going on. The cloudiness condition (caused by air) should be only temporary, and can be cleared by running a cold water tap for a few minutes to clean and flush your service line. If the condition continues for an extended period of time please contact the Blaine Public Works.

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

Thank you in advance for your cooperation. If you have any questions, feel free to call Public Works at (360) 332-8820, or visit www.cityofblaine.com for weekly area updates.

Cemetery Board Meeting 6:00pm – Planning Commission Meeting Planning Commission Study Session: Zoning Text Amendment

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

of last year. Would their lives be worth the disruption of my personal freedom by accepting to restrict the size of my social gatherings. I would have to say yes. • The U.S. experienced the tragedy of 515,138 deaths due to Covid-19. This converts to the full populations of Whatcom, Skagit, San Juan and Okanagan Counties. Can I cope with the nuisance of washing and sanitizing my hands more frequently for them? Again, yes. • The next day saw 2,580 more deaths in the U.S., the equivalent to 50 percent of Blaine’s population. What are our lives worth? Maybe we should all ponder that. For those reading this letter – what if you could personally save even one life by your actions – what would you be willing to give up, what would be your sacrifice? I believe the answer is obvious. Lee C. Bravener Blaine

BLAINE LIBRARY

Blaine Public Works.

www.cityofblaine.com

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The Northern Light • March 4 - 10, 2021

Sports

s Blaine junior defender Hailey Pike, r., goes in for a tackle on a Bellingham High School forward in their scoreless draw on February 27.

s A Borderite stretches to return the ball in the Borderites three-set loss to Meridian High School.

By Ian Haupt s Blaine junior Peyton Dixon, r., tries to escapte the Mount Baker defense in the Borderites 49-14 loss on February 26.

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The Borderites continued competition this week in WIAA’s adjusted fall season, and made some record book history. Football The Borderites varsity football team lost to Mount Baker 49-14 last Friday as senior quarterback

s Junior Jaxon Kortlever, #5, runs the ball in the Borderites 49-14 loss to Mount Baker High School.

Will McKinney became the third player in school history to throw a touch down pass in each of his four years of varsity football, according to Whatcom Prep Sports website. The Borderites will play at home Friday, March 5, at 7 p.m. against Bellingham High School. Girls Soccer

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The Borderites tied two home games last week, drawing to Meridian 2-2 last Thursday and going scoreless against Bellingham on Saturday. On Monday, the Borderites fell to Mount Baker away 4-1. The Borderites are scheduled to play Anacortes at home at 6 p.m. Wednesday, March 3 and travel to Bellingham to face Sehome on Saturday, March 6. Cross Country The boys and girls cross country teams traveled to Bellingham February 24 to race in a dual meet against Meridian. Senior Malachi Crump led the boys team, finishing the 5,000-meter race in 14th with a time of 22:17. Junior Eleeshiyah Faulkner led the girls team, finishing second with a time of 23:45. Both teams are scheduled to take on Lynden Christian at home at 3 p.m. Wednesday, March 3. Volleyball The Borderites volleyball team lost to Squalicum away February 24 in a tight 2-3 set match, 25-14, 13-25, 25-19, 22-25 and 6-15. On Saturday, the Borderites lost in straight sets, 13-25, 2225 and 17-25, to Meridian at home. On Tuesday, the Borderites swept Mount Baker away in three straight sets, 25-13, 25-16 and 25-23. The Borderites are scheduled to play Burlington-Edison at home at 7 p.m. Thursday, March 4, and the team is scheduled to travel to Mount Vernon on March 6.

March 4 - 10, 2021 • thenorthernlight.com

Berm ... From page 1

reports and answered residents’ questions. Below are some questions and answers from the meeting, edited for length and clarity. Q: How do community members access the beach without trampling on the plants? Orelup: At each concrete access that runs perpendicular to the road, there is a trail that is non-planted that people can walk from the street or from the limestone path and access the beach. It’s tough to see right now because those plants are so small. But we’re going to place driftwood at those areas to delineate the walkways. But I agree, it is tough to discern where the plantings start and stop because they are so small. If anyone has any better ideas to how we can delineate that path, I’m sure the county would love to hear.

Q: Will the plantings along the berm start to grow and turn green by summer? Orelup: The hope is that they do start to grow and turn green. I am no expert when it comes to plants so I don’t know how much growth there will be between here and the summer. So, it’s hard for me to say. Q: How are you going to prevent people from trampling the plants? Karcher: I will give the audience the dilemma that the county is forced to face here. And that dilemma is – and I don’t mean to make this sound negative – it’s that when we got permission to construct the berm, it came with mitigation attached. That is planting in a large effort and cultural mitigation. We don’t know how to deal with it to be honest with you. We are going to try to deal with it with signing. And remind the public to use the access areas. We have to show the permitting

agencies that we are sincere and achieving our planting viability so that there’s not a lot of plant mortality, or losses, that we don’t comply with our permit regulations for what we have to put back. It’s going to have be like a dance, between the public … wait until the Fourth of July comes. We’re concerned about this, and we’re concerned about the cost of it. I think what we would like to do is, when we’re done with the formal construction, we start a series of outreach with the community about what we can do together as a group to maintain the viability of these plants so that we can get through the establishment period. Q: How many different kinds of plants are being planted? Orelup: It depends on the planting area. There’s probably a total of 10-12 different species. The traffic islands get a different assortment. The upper berm portion gets a different assortment. And then anything that’s really

Enrollment drop could lead to district layoffs next year By Ian Haupt The Blaine school board has directed superintendent Christopher Granger to begin planning for cuts in next school year’s budget in the event that state funding is reduced. The plan would include staff layoffs. With this year’s enrollment down 75 students from what the district budgeted, Amber Porter, the district’s executive director of finance and operations, advised the board in a February 22 meeting that budgeting precautions need to be in place because apportionment for the 2021-22 school year will be up in the air. If state apportionment, which is largely based on the previous year’s 10-month enrollment average, is calculated the same as previous years, the Blaine school district will lose funding. Porter also said due to the anomaly of this year, the state may change its rules. “But in this particular situation, I’m not sure where rules are going to land,” Porter said. “It’s really hard to know what we’re going to have to work with. We could be provided some general relief, or we could be trying to follow former rules.” The board unanimously passed a resolution to direct Granger to submit a reduced education program plan that would reduce staffing for the 2021-22 school year. This will be used to plan a budget for next year and to notify affected staff by May 15, as required by state law. Granger encouraged this direction from the board as well. “We’re asking the board to direct us to do a reduced educational program, which will impact our staffing, and could lead to a reduced staff,” he said, adding no action was being taken immediately. He said the plan will look at where money can be saved if hybrid-learning continues next year. Although February enrollment

increased by 27 students, Porter said the district’s average enrollment is still down 75 students from what the district budgeted. The state could decrease next year’s apportionment because of the decreased enrollment as previous funding models have been based on past year’s enrollment. Porter told The Northern Light that a loss of one student costs the district an estimated $13,655 in revenue. A loss of 75 students would decrease revenue by over $1 million. Porter added that a lot of other moving parts affect the budget. For example, kindergarten through third grade is not funded the same as fourth through twelfth grade, and nor is Running Start and special education classes. According to the district’s February financial report, the district’s total expenditures in the 2019-20 school year were about $36 million, versus $34.5 million in 2018-19, meaning a $1 million loss would result in nearly 3 percent less revenue. Porter said the district has cut back on spending since it was warned at the beginning of the year that the state would likely reduce funding. “We were on high alert this year to really be careful, not knowing how the state’s going to adjust any formulas, or if they’re going to adjust any,” she said. “We have had the brakes applied, compared to the authorized budget level.” The district has been saving compared to the previous school year. As of January, the district had used 34.5 percent of its budgeted expenditures, whereas that time last year it had used nearly 40 percent. “There is a ‘use it or lose it’ mechanism in the works here,” Porter warned. She said because the district over budgeted this year, it may cost them next year, which is why a plan is needed. During the superintendent’s report, Granger encouraged board members, staff and parents to

s Construction workers adding plants to the berm on March 2. Photo by Chuck Kinzer/CKimageart.com

more resilient plants are closer to the water, and the ones in the traffic islands don’t have the same properties.

close to the water line also has a different assortment. They’re placed strategically so they have the best chance of survival. The

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voice as much advocacy as posAwarded to Awarded to sible toward the state department of health to reduce the six-foot rule in schools so they can return to a regular schedule next school In recognition of your leadership, year. With the six-foot rule, the dedication to partnership, and steadfast district does not have the square In recognition of your leadership, footage to get every student backIn recognition commitment to the Blaine community of your leadership, dedication to partnership, and steadfast in the building, he said. dedication to partnership, and steadfast The board accepted Granger’ s commitment to the Blaine community annual performance evaluation commitment to the Blaine community as satisfactory, and moved forward with the intent to extend his employment contract through June 30, 2024. In a separate motion, board president Charles Gibson will bring a final contract recommendation to the board no 546 Peace Portal Drive • 360-332-4544 • blainechamber.com later than the May 24 meeting.

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PeaceHealth St. Joseph Medical Center now allowing visitors, with restrictions Bellingham’s PeaceHealth St. Joseph Medical Center will now allow visits to patients undergoing medical care. On February 19, the hospital began allowing each non Covid-19 positive patient to have one designated visitor during their stay. Two visitors are allowed on a case-by-case basis for

Health-Wellness Mar.indd 2

end-of-life patients, people under 18 years old and other people made at the discretion of PeaceHealth, according to the hospital. Previously, visitors weren’t allowed in the hospital to limit the spread of Covid-19. “We recognize that having a loved one by a patient’s side is important during a hospi-

tal stay,” the media release said. “We believe these changes best balance comfort for our patients and families while still effectively safeguarding against the spread of Covid-19 for our patients, caregivers and the broader community.” Before entering a PeaceHealth facility, all visitors will be screened for a fever and Covid-19 symptoms. They will then be asked to stay with the patient and not wander through the healthcare facility, including the cafeteria, coffee shop, gift shop and chapel, according to the media release. Visitors must also follow Covid-19 guidelines such as wearing a mask and washing hands frequently. PeaceHealth Medical Group

clinics, separate from the hospital, will not allow visitors unless they are needed to assist a patient who has physical or cognitive limitations. Clinic visitors will

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Health & Wellness Local choices in health, healing & fitness. continued

Fresh herbs that can reduce your reliance on sodium Salt has long been used to add flavor to people’s favorite foods. In fact, the use of salt as a means to preserving foods and adding flavor to recipes dates back to ancient times and has led to countless conflicts ever since. According to History.com, wars over access to salt reserves in China are believed to have been fought as early as 6,000 B.C. Though that shows just how valuable salt has been throughout much of human history, it doesn’t indicate the negative effects that can result from diets that feature excessive amounts of sodium. The American Heart Association notes that sodium plays an essential role in the human body by regulating the kidneys and helping to control the body’s fluid balance. Sodium also helps send nerve impulses and affects muscle function. However, excessive amounts of sodium can compromise heart health. The AHA notes that excessive amounts of sodium in the bloodstream pulls water into the blood vessels, increasing the total volume of blood within them. As more blood flows through blood vessels, blood pressure increases. Over time, that can adversely affect blood vessels and speed up the buildup of plaque that can block blood flow. Higher blood pressure forces the heart to work harder and increases a person’s risk for heart disease. So what is it about sodium, a mineral so valued, and indeed vital to human existence, that it has led to wars and created countless devotees in kitchens over the centuries? If it is flavor cooks are aiming for, it’s possible to reduce reliance on sodium and increase the use of fresh herbs without sacrificing flavor. Such a transition can improve heart health and introduce a host of new flavors at meal time. Basil The AHA notes that basil has a sweet and fresh flavor profile and is best added to a dish right before serving. Freshly cut basil leaves can be added to any number of dishes, including tomato sauces, pastas, salads, pizzas and eggs. Cilantro Cilantro are the delicate leaves and stems of the coriander plant. Like basil, cilantro should be added to a dish right before serving and should not be cooked. Cilantro can be paired with beans, tomatoes, corn and avocados among other foods, and is widely used when preparing Mexican foods at home. Oregano The AHA notes that Greek dishes often combine oregano, mint and lemon to create a memorable, delicious flavor profile. If chopping fresh oregano, strip the leaves from the stem and then discard the stem. Parsley Parsley isn’t just a garnish used to add aesthetic appeal to plates. Flat-leaf parsley provides a light

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The Northern Light • March 4 - 10, 2021

Birch Bay graffiti suspect caught by sheriff’s deputies By Grace McCarthy

s Graffiti depicting the “KJ” at Birch Bay Waterslides in February. These are a few examples of recent graffiti incidents in Birch Bay. Courtesy photos

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A person suspected of leaving a trail of “KJ” graffiti marks around Birch Bay was booked into Whatcom County Jail for malicious mischief in the second degree and felony harassment on February 27. Joshua Ryan Taylor, 38, allegedly spray-painted “KJ” on public and private property in areas like Cottonwood Drive and Loomis Trail, increasing graffiti in the area over the past month. Since February 10, the Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office had received five reports about graffiti in the area but didn’t think it was gang related, Birch Bay deputy Derek Jones said. As described in the affidavit ofprobable cause (APC), deputies responded February 21 to a Birch Bay-Lynden Road apartment for reports of domestic violence harassment. At the apartment, deputies found spray paint cans and painted wooden letters K and J. Deputies determined “K” stood for the first name of Taylor’s girlfriend and “J” stood for Taylor’s first name, Joshua. Deputies located and arrested Taylor on February 27. During the arrest, he admitted to spray-painting a slur on the seawall at the 8200 block of Birch Bay Drive. Taylor allegedly threatened the sheriff’s deputy who transported him to jail, saying he would “beat his ass” and told the deputy to pull over and remove his handcuffs. The sheriff’s deputy determined Taylor’s statements constituted threat of retaliation and gave probable cause for felony harassment. Three separate graffiti incidents were reported at 8200 Birch Bay Drive, adjacent to Cedar Avenue; a stop sign and bus stop at Birch Point Drive and Selder Road; and the Birch Bay Water and Sewer District treatment plant building, Jones said. “It’s definitely been an uptick with this particular tag,” Jones said before Taylor’s arrest. “Normally, we haven’t had a lot of graffiti.” Jones said he started documenting every location and keeps an eye on new graffiti, which he said was often discovered Friday evenings or during the weekends. The sheriff’s office had suspected one person was behind the vandalism because the “KJ” graffiti marks had similar handwriting and similar paint colors were used, Jones said. Birch Bay Waterslides and Sea Links Golf Course have also had graffiti on their property but didn’t officially report it, Jones said. Whatcom County Public Works is cleaning up public surfaces, but private property owners are responsible for their own cleanup, Jones said. Whatcom County Public Works has spent $1,111 on labor and materials for cleaning up Birch Bay graffiti in the past month, spokesperson Marie Duckworth said in an email.

March 4 - 10, 2021 • thenorthernlight.com

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The Northern Light • March 4 - 10, 2021

Real Estate

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8051 Quinault Road 5768 Salish Road 5550 Salish Road 9593 Freedom Place 8631 Cambridge Loop 4767 Alderson Road MLS #1732608 $250,000 MLS #1683441 $839,000 MLS #1735916 $265,000 MLS #1724761 $550,000 MLS #1734146 $599,000 MLS #1724220 Gorgeous home w/partial water view, bright Well maintained furnished home in Birch Built in 2005, but you would think it was Dreaming of building right away? Nearly Timeless, one-level home w/modern farm$300,000

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& beautifully updated split-level home built along greenbelt in gated Birch Bay Village. Features expansive open floor plan w/vaulted ceilings, partial sunroom, spacious kitchen, abundant storage, walk-in pantry, and large bedrooms w/walk-in closets. Separate living area perfect for guests. Lindal Cedar home, wired for Alarm system & Generator, Radiant floor heating, Central vacuum system, Amtrol water heating system, Steam shower & bidet, Large 2-car garage.

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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.

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impossible to find 10 acre building site with 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 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 behind private gated entry.

Jen Freeman 360-815-0803

house inspiration in gated community of Loomis Trail golf course. Custom built in 2016, lives larger than appears! Generous living spaces, 3 large beds, 3 full baths, separate home office, 10’ & 14’ ceilings, warm birchwood floors & custom built-in’s throughout. Chef-inspired kitchen opens to dining & living area. Spacious master bed & bath, large walk-in shower & closet. Walk-in pantry & mudroom. Covered patio backs to permanent open space for added privacy.

Tresie Wiersma 360-815-5208

F E AT U R E D L I S T I N G S - S E M I A H M O O

8735 Oertal Drive 5344 Canvasback Road 9131 Chickadee Way MLS #1729790 $1,390,000 MLS #1735328 $1,950,000 MLS #1730785 $989,000

Harvey Road MLS #1296218 $30,000

Build your dream home on this large lot while escaping the outside world. Close to shopping, British Columbia, schools and easy access to the freeway. A beautifully treed lot that you can choose which trees to keep or which trees to remove for your home footprint and garden space. Be sure to identify what the road easement requirements would be.

Lorrie Dujmovich 360-920-8952

Think Whistler with a waterview--Northwest style with a touch of classic charm in this lovingly maintained well cared for home. Great room is truly great with a breakfast bar that can easily sit eight! Elevated deck overlooks “croquet-perfect” backyard. Kitchen updated--master bath improvements--all trim work & doors showcase variety of wood & detail. Large windows & creative roof line. Main floor guest suite-top floor is private master quarters --walkout level has 2 additional bedrooms.

Kathy Stauffer 360-815-4718

A RARE FIND....Ocean beachfront home with sea & skyscape views from nearly every room, world class sunsets! Steps from beach, luxurious 5,400 sq ft custom home. Bright & light throughout, walls of windows, main floor master suite. Multiple living areas including game & theater rooms, plus a large loft over-looking great room. 3 expansive decks & patio with hot tub nestled amongst the mature landscaping & manicured level yard.

Chet Kenoyer 360-676-9229 or Gina Kenoyer 360-303-7653

Sunsets & delightful water view in this gracious & spacious 3 bed + office property in Semiahmoo’s waterfront community of Boundary Ridge. Main floor living features vaulted ceilings & glass doors across the back of home. Deck spans entire length of house, with covered areas, privacy screening. Home has been lovingly cared for & is a timeless design. Updated stack stone exterior/new paint. Interior updates in all baths, flooring & paint. Move in condition and ready to go!

Kathy Stauffer 360-815-4718

COMING SOON: Woodberry Estates MLS #1682575 prices vary

New homes ranging from 1800 to 2600 sq ft. A gated community with large lots and open space. Custom single level homes with 2 and 3 car garages. Construction begins in May 2021.

Brian Southwick 360-815-6638 & Jim Kaemingk 360-224-5465

www.windermere.com Semiahmoo Marina Boat slips: C-33, 40’ Slip for $46,500 ! DING C-24, 44’ Slip for $52,500 PEN 20+ acres on Kickerville Road $179,000 !

G DIN

2040 Ponderosa Ct, Bellingham, 3 bedrooms, 2 baths $419,000

Call Hugh : 360.371.5800 Your Local Expert For All Real Estate, Residential Or Commercial Services! Hugh Brawford, Managing Broker

www.CallHugh.com

Gerry’s 30-Day Stats

3 2 Listed 3 3 Pending

FOR RENT Brand New Construction in Blaine 4BR, 2.5BA, 1649 s.f., duplex. 624 E. St. $2,400/mo. Call Linda 360-808-3838

Gerry Allen 360-920-0563

for REAL news

READ

LOCAL

“Selling now or in the near future, call Gerry for a Market Evaluation”

GerryAllen@windermere.com

Rentals - Residential

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

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Email or Call Don Nelson For Availability & Rates

For leasing info, contact Pat Grubb

360-305-0286

Email nelsbldg@msn.com

Retail/Office Space

360/332-1777

READ REAL NEWS online at thenorthernlight.com

March 4 - 10, 2021 • thenorthernlight.com

Measures looking to limit executive powers die in state legislature By Patric Haerle It’s been one year since governor Jay Inslee declared a state of emergency in response to the Covid-19 pandemic, and calls for a special legislative session and cries of executive overreach have been constant ever since. A special session was never called, and emergency orders were extended prompting a flurry of bills from Republicans calling for a limit on executive power in emergencies. All of those bills are now dead, dying without a single floor vote in the state Legislature. The bills limited the scope of executive declarations, required state emergencies to be defined more specifically and required input from the Legislature after a set amount of days. Representative Jim Walsh (R-Aberdeen) and the prime sponsor of House Bill 1029, the only one of these bills that was heard in committee, is confident the state’s coronavirus response would have been better with legislative input. “Anytime that an executive consults with the legislative branch regularly, the end product in terms of policy is superior,” Walsh said. The governor’s office, however, does not view the Republican complaints of executive overreach as legitimate. “The legislation was misguided as it focused on the governor’s appropriate use of the office’s emergency powers and not on the real source of people’s frustration, the pandemic,” said the governor’s office in a statement. “We look forward to continued discussions with those who have serious ideas for how to improve the state’s Covid response.” Some Republicans viewed the governor’s actions as a potential constitutional crisis. “It’s not about the current governor. It’s not about the current legislative majorities in my mind. This is a constitutional issue, and we need to restore constitutional balance between the branches. And I will run this bill or something very much like it until we get it into law as policy,” Walsh said.

At the public hearing for HB 1029, the bill drew support from outside the state. Nick Murray, a policy analyst with Maine Policy Center, a nonpartisan institute based in Portland, Maine advocated for a consistent process, with the executive branch presenting its findings to the legislature, submitting to questioning and receiving a favorable vote to have an emergency extended. The center recently released a report scoring all 50 states on the concentration of executive powers during emergencies. The report ranked Washington near the bottom of governor-legislator balance, with only two states ranking lower. The ranking does not take into account recent emergency orders, only the existing laws governors are required to follow when issu-

ing emergencies. “The constitutional principles of separation of powers and coequal branches of government are simply too valuable to be cast aside, even in an emergency,” Murray said. The Washington State Journal is a non-profit news website managed by the Washington Newspaper Publishers Association Foundation. Learn more at wastatejournal.org.

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April 26, 1938 – February 16, 2021 John T. Breidford of Blaine passed away in Bellingham on February 16, 2021. John was born in Blaine to John and Nina (Freeman) Breidford. He graduated from Blaine High School in 1955. Shortly after he joined the Air Force spending the entire four years at Othello, WA Air Force Station where he made lifelong friends. He then returned to Blaine and worked at his parents Ford dealership, Breidford Motor Co. He married Lorna Lee Stephens in 1961 and together they had two daughters, Janet and Jeri. Later he married Anna Markusen. In 1976 they moved to Palmer, Alaska where they built their business, Breidford Body and Paint, working together. John could be seen daily at the Vagabond Blues in Palmer picking up his favorite latte. John was an active member and Exalted Ruler of the Elks in Palmer. He loved his home there and many friends, including four-legged ones, Sammy, Sara, and Lu. John was diagnosed with Parkinson’s, and after Anna’s death, moved back to Blaine to live near his family. He was an active member of the Blaine Senior Center and enjoyed going there daily to work out and visit. We all enjoyed his great sense of humor. John was preceded in death by his wife Anna; his daughter Janet Sutton; stepson Kurt Markusen; and sister Virginia Claymore. He is survived by his daughter Jeri (Bob) Benasky; stepchildren Gary (Rainbow) Markusen of Maple Falls;, Mike Markusen of Anchorage; and Julie Cowan of Blaine; sister Sharon (Gene) Luther of Blaine; four grandchildren, one great-grandson; and many nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends. Memorials may be made to charity of your choice. Due to the current pandemic a private family ceremony will be held at Hillsdale Cemetery at a later date. Please share your memories of John at www.molesfarewelltributes.com.

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Betty Sells Robertson

October 1943–February 22, 2021 Betty Sells Robertson, 77, an influential resident of Birch Bay for over 50 years, passed away on February 22, 2021. Betty was born on October 1943 in Seattle. After graduating from Roosevelt High School in 1961, she went on to study education at the University of Washington and was a member of the Kappa Alpha Theta sorority. In 1970, she met Douglas Robertson and six months later they wed in November 1970. They were married over 50 years until her passing. The couple have two children Shela Tussy and Lori Stutevoss. In 1971, Betty and Doug permanently moved to Birch Bay. Betty became a PE teacher at Vista Middle School in Ferndale where she would spend the next 35 years teaching a healthy and active lifestyle, while also coaching basketball, volleyball, gymnastics and track & field. Betty was also a huge advocate and supporter of Title 9, fighting for the equal opportunity of women athletes and teachers. Betty was passionate about her family, sports, sailing, and skiing; and when she wasn’t filling her home with warmth and kindness, she could be found volunteering with the Blaine-Birch Bay Park and Recreation District. Her community, family and friends will miss Betty’s positivity, contagious laugh and unconditional love that radiated from her. Betty was predeceased by Charlie Sells, Iola Sells and William Sells. She is survived by her husband Douglas Robertson; brother John Sells; daughters Shela Tussy and Lori Stutevoss; and four grandchildren. A celebration of life will be held at a later date.

Betty S. Underwood

EATING LOCAL Great Authentic Mexican Food 758 Peace Portal • Blaine 360-332-4045

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Betty S. Underwood passed away February 21, 2021. She was born in Owensboro, Kentucky. She is survived by an older sister, a daughter, three grandchildren and three great grandchildren.

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The Northern Light • March 4 - 10, 2021

Police Reports February 16, 5:28 a.m.: Assisted U.S. Border Patrol with an illegal border crossing on D Street. February 16, 5 p.m.: Law enforcement ride-along. February 17, 8:51 a.m.: Officers located a suspicious circumstance on 4th Street. February 17, 4:12 p.m.: Officers received a suspicious circumstance report on H Street. February 17, 4:57 p.m.: Bank account fraud on 10th Street. February 17, 6:52 p.m.: Man verbally trespassed from a business on H Street. February 18, 3:12 p.m.: Officers received a drugs complaint report on Martin Street. February 20, 11 a.m.: Officers issued a trespass notice on A Street. February 20, 4:01 p.m.: Officers responded to trouble with a guest on Peace Portal Drive. February 20, 10:12 p.m.: Verbal domestic violence/no crime on 4th Street.

February 20, 11:08 p.m.: Blaine officers responded to a music complaint on E Street. February 21, 2:56 a.m.: Police responded to assist North Whatcom Fire and Rescue on Bayview Avenue. February 21, 8:48 p.m.: Officers were dispatched to a neighbor dispute on Peace Portal Drive. February 21, 12:25 p.m.: Police issued a person a trespass from a business on Boblett Street. February 21, 1:12 p.m.: Officers arrested an individual for disorderly conduct on Peace Portal Drive. February 21, 8 a.m.: Citizen ride-along. February 22, 12:41 a.m.: Person pouring large amount of household bleach on the ground on 3rd Street. A warning was given. February 23, 2:44 p.m.: Non-reportable collision between vehicle and power supply box on Harrison Avenue. February 23, 9:57 p.m.: An adult person was stopped for

a traffic violation who was reported missing. The person’s family was notified they were returning home. The family said they would remove the missing person report once the person returned home. February 24, 3:42 p.m.: Report of an unknown person approaching a residence on Blaine Avenue. February 25, 2:35 p.m.: Driver contacted for driving on a suspended/revoked license on Peace Portal Drive. Case forwarded to juvenile prosecutor for review. February 26, 7:42 a.m.: Report of an intoxicated and confrontational individual on Seaside Drive. February 26, 8:33 a.m.: Police responded to a suspicious circumstance outside of city limits. February 26, 3:01 p.m.: Police arrested an individual for driving with a suspended driver’s license on Peace Portal Drive. February 26, 11:35 p.m.: Theft of motor vehicle on Peace Portal Drive.

Crossword ACROSS 1. Volcanic crater 5. Long times 10. Swedish rock group 14. Having the means to do something 15. Rods or spindles 16. La __ Tar Pits, Hollywood 17. Missing soldiers 18. Measuring instrument 19. All of the components considered individually 20. Play “__ Irish Rose” 22. Gene 23. Barrels 24. London-based soccer team 27. Feline 30. Breed of sheep 31. Body part 32. Doctors’ group 35. One who follows the rules 37. Cigarette residue 38. Ancient Greek sophist 39. Polish yeast cakes 40. Promotional materials 41. Pancakes made from buckwheat flour 42. Completed

perfectly 43. Photo 44. A peninsula in SW Asia 45. The common gibbon 46. Disfigure 47. Ribonucleic acid 48. Japanese honorific 49. Pieces of music 52. Expressed pleasure 55. Having ten 56. Type of sword 60. Humble request for help 61. Eating houses 63. Italian Seaport 64. Cain and __ 65. Measure the depth 66. U. of Miami’s mascot 67. Political outsiders 68. Greek sorceress 69. Body part DOWN 1. Mother 2. Jewish calendar month 3. Jai __, sport 4. Establish again 5. Swiss river 6. Racetrack wager 7. __ but goodie 8. Closeness

9. Soviet Socialist Republic 10. At right angles to a ship’s length 11. Women’s undergarments 12. Mountain stream 13. Expresses pleasure 21. Painful places on the body 23. Automobile 25. Scandinavian god of battle 26. Expresses surprise 27. Secret political clique 28. Yields manila hemp 29. River in central Italy 32. Brain injury science acronym 33. Mental illness 34. A person from Asia 36. Father 37. General’s assistant (abbr.) 38. Cooked or prepared in a specified style 40. Large terrier 41. Hillsides 43. Golf score 44. Not or 46. Type of student 47. Flower cluster

49. Closes tightly 50. Saudi Arabian desert 51. Famed vaccine developer 52. Multi-function radar (abbr.) 53. Actress Jessica 54. Pay attention to 57. Beloved big screen pig 58. __ Clapton, musician 59. Take a chance 61. Cost per mille 62. Helps little firms ANSWERS: THENORTHERNLIGHT.COM

March 5-11 at Blaine. Not for navigation. 49° 0’ 0”N - 122° 46’ 0”W TIME

HEIGHT

Fr 5

3:23 a.m. 5.7

4:32 p.m. 0.1

TIME

HEIGHT

9:01 a.m. 9.2

Sa 6 12:10 am 8.1

4:31 am 6.7

9:41 am 8.9

5:36 pm -0.2

Su 7 1:48 am 8.5

6:01 am 7.3

10:33 am 8.5

6:44 pm -0.3

Mo 8 3:00 am 8.9

7:49 am 7.3

11:45 am 8.2

7:50 pm -0.5

Tu 9 3:50 am 9.2

9:07 am 6.8

8:48 pm -0.5

1:07 pm 7.9

We 10 4:30 am 9.4 10:01 am 6.1

2:23 pm 7.9

9:38 pm -0.4

Th 11 5:04 am 9.4 10:43 am 5.4

Please wear masks and follow social distancing guidelines. 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. Birch Bay-Blaine Community Conversations: Thursday, March 4, 6:30 p.m. Local health and wellness experts discuss health and wellness during a pandemic. A conversation about how students are staying healthy at this time, how can parents and community help and ideas about what helps from three local health and wellness experts. Register at surveymonkey. com/r/BlaineCommunityConversations2021. For more info email geof. morgan@communityresilienceresearch.com. 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. Live Music at the Vault: Friday, March 5, 7 p.m., The Vault Wine Bar and Bistro, 277 G Street. Featuring Free Harmony. 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. Supercharging Your Snapshots (Virtual): Saturday, March 6, 2-3:30 p.m. Learn how to take your camera from automatic to manual and explore the settings and options available from smartphones to DSLRs. $5 suggested donation. Registration and info on other classes and exhibits visit whatcommuseum.org. Live Music at the Vault: Friday, March 12, 7 p.m., The Vault Wine Bar and Bistro, 277 G Street. Featuring Adrian Clark. Info: thevaultwine.com. 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. Live Music at the Vault: Friday, March 19, 7 p.m., The Vault Wine Bar and Bistro, 277 G Street. Featuring Trio Sueño. Info: thevaultwine.com. Outdoor Birding Adventures for Kids: Saturday, March 20, 11 a.m.–2 p.m. Kids of all ages get outside and experience some ornitherapy. Kids visit four stations located at Marine Park, Semiahmoo Spit, Birch Bay Visitor Center and Birch Bay State Park for activity bags. Part of Wings Over Water Birding Festival. Sponsored by the Blaine-Birch Bay Park and Recreation. Info: www.wingsoverwaterbirdingfestival.com.

Tides DATE

Coming up

3:27 pm 7.9 10:24 pm -0.1

Weather

Precipitation: During the period of February 22 to 28, 0.45 inches of precipitation was recorded. The 2021 year-to-date precipitation 9.26 inches.

Temperature: High for the past week was 58°F on February 22 with a low of 30°F on February 27. Average high was 49°F and average low was 40°F. Courtesy Birch Bay Water & Sewer Dist.

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. 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 Blaine Chamber of Commerce Virtual Meetings: First Wednesday, noon. Meeting ID on blainechamber.com. 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. 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.

March 4 - 10, 2021 • thenorthernlight.com

Covid ...

From page 3 of health Dr. Umair Shah, who signed the letter, said the county would receive an extra 4,680 first dose allocations this week. “We also recognized that Whatcom County was behind in county pro rata vaccine allocations, as are a few other counties,” the letter read. Shah said that DOH asked the health department in a February 20 email to give them the names of providers that could distribute the Pfizer vaccine, which is currently more abundant than Moderna. In the previous week, the letter said Whatcom County received 2,540 first doses and 3,270 second doses of the vaccine. The county received 2,400 second doses two weeks ago and the letter said the state had prioritized second doses due to high demand. Shah said there were not enough vaccines for everyone in

the current eligible phases, with over 2.5 million people statewide in eligible tiers. “We know this is frustrating, but we wait for your understanding and patience as we wait to get more vaccines into the state to cover everyone who needs it,” the letter read. However, the letter also said the federal government had announced an increase in vaccines sent weekly to Washington. “We are working with local jurisdictions toward a steady, predictable baseline allocation to each county,” the letter said. School and childcare workers now eligible Governor Jay Inslee directed the state to immediately open vaccine eligibility for K-12 teachers on March 2. This follows a directive issued the same day from President Joe Biden to get every public school teacher and childcare worker at least one vaccine shot. Inslee said in a statement that pre-K, K-12 and licensed childcare workers can now sign up

for a vaccine that will be offered through enrolled providers and the Federal Retail Pharmacy Program. “We will continue our progress in getting every Washingtonian vaccinated,” Inlsee said in a statement. “I am grateful for the partnership of the federal government and their efforts to help move educators up in the prioritization.” The group will be added to the Phase 1B Tier 1 group, which includes people 65 and older and people 50 and older living in a multigenerational household. Inslee said Phase Finder, the state’s tool that informs people when they’re eligible for a vaccine, might not immediately adjust to the changes.

Biden also announced there would be enough vaccines for every U.S. adult by the end of May, but this doesn’t mean everyone will be vaccinated by then. Blaine school district superintendent Christopher Granger has previously said teachers can decide if they want the vaccination.

For more 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.

Washington

Bl ack by Esi Edugyan

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The Northern Light • March 4 - 10, 2021

The Northern Light: March 4-10, 2021

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