The Northern Light: April 29-May 5, 2021 by Point Roberts Press

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Community Newspaper of Blaine and Birch Bay

April 29 - May 5, 2021

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IN THIS

ISSUE

Covid cases are up in Blaine, page 3

Annexation public hearing delay, page 5

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

Blessing of the Fleet on May 2, page 9

Council includes greenhouses in county cannabis moratorium By Ian Haupt

(See Cannabis, page 13)

s Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife’s Nathan Goldschmidt, l., and Northwest Straits Commission’s Johnathan Hallenbeck during their first week trapping for the invasive European Green Crabs in Drayton Harbor. Photo by Allie Simpson/Northwest Straits Commission

European Green Crab trapping season starts By Grace McCarthy Washington scientists are using information learned last year as they gear up for trapping the European Green Crab in Drayton Harbor this year. A team of researchers from Washington Sea Grant, Northwest Straits Commission and Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW) started setting traps the week ending April 16. As researchers were setting up 364 traps and preparing for the upcoming year, WDFW European Green Crab lead Chelsey Buffington said they caught a total of five green crabs at their three main

sites this year – two crabs were captured near the old Cherry Street pier, two at the mouth of Dakota Creek and one at the mouth of California Creek. Since trapping didn’t begin until late May last year, scientists say they are excited for the longer trapping season to better understand the crabs in Drayton Harbor. “It’s nice to get out on time and even if it’s not the peak season. It’s valuable information,” Buffington said. “Starting earlier helps us paint a picture of what the crab is doing seasonally.” Washington scientists first discovered the invasive species in the muddy shorelines of Drayton Harbor in fall 2019, near

Blaine man sentenced for drug distribution in Alaska By Ian Haupt A Blaine man was sentenced to 10 years in federal prison for possession of more methamphetamine and heroin doses than the entire Ketchikan area population. Spencer Hill, 24, was sentenced to 10 years in federal prison and five years of parole for possession with intent to distribute 3.7 pounds of methamphetamine and 1.78 pounds of heroin, according to an April 22 press release by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Alaska.

In November 2019, Ketchikan Police Department officers searched Hill’s Alaska residence as part of a drug investigation, and found 228 grams of methamphetamine, drug paraphernalia, a money counting machine, a stolen Kel-Tec .22 caliber pistol and keys to a safety deposit box. In the safety deposit box, officers found an additional 1,485 grams of methamphetamine and 815 grams of heroin, according to the attorney’s office. Hill had more than 8,000 doses of each drug, which the attorney’s office says is

more than the entire population of the Ketchikan Borough, about 12,000 people. Hill traveled to Ketchikan in September 2019 to direct the possession and distribution of large amounts of methamphetamine and heroin, records show. Hill used other dealers’ money to purchase more of the substances from his supply in Washington through the U.S. Postal Service. Hill is also wanted on a felony warrant in South Dakota for trafficking 22 pounds of marijuana, according to the attorney’s office.

the end of the trapping season. If left unchecked, the European green crab could threaten native habitats and species such as Dungeness crabs, oysters and clams in Washington, where the crab has started settling along the shorelines in recent years. Washington Sea Grant marine ecologist Emily Grason said Drayton Harbor has a lower crab population density than other coastal estuaries in the state like Willapa Bay and Grays Harbor near the Olympic Peninsula. Still, she says it remains a concern, especially as scientists trapped Eu(See Crabs, page 2)

INSIDE

Following a six-month ban placed two weeks before on accepting permit applications for outdoor cannabis growing operations, Whatcom County Council expanded the moratorium to include greenhouses in its April 20 meeting. Council voted 5-2, with councilmembers Ben Elenbaas and Kathy Kershner opposed, to place a six-month ban on accepting new applications or changes to marijuana-growing operations that are outdoor or in greenhouses. The now all-encompassing interim moratorium was proposed after confusion on what qualifies as an outdoor growing facility was brought up in council. Many cannabis growers use hoop houses, also used for growing grapes on vineyards, that can offer a hybrid indoor and outdoor growing environment. With the debate still ongoing as to whether hoop houses are considered outdoor or indoor growing, council added language to the ordinance to prevent further confusion. Under the new substitute ordinance, the moratorium applies to the licensing of any cannabis production in: Open or cleared ground, a non-rigid greenhouse, a greenhouse with rigid walls, a roof and doors, or similar greenhouse structures. The action by council comes after rural residents have complained about the light pollution, smell, noise and water usage of these operations. The moratorium does not affect any preexisting grow operations but prevents anyone who wants to grow cannabis from obtaining a permit and any growers from expanding their current operations. The county’s planning department will use the six months to look at possible zoning code adjustments so grow farms are less of a disturbance to their neighbors. Mark Personius, Whatcom County planning and development services department director, said during the meeting that other counties in Washington have banned all outdoor cannabis growing but

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

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The Northern Light • April 29 - May 5, 2021

Mom was right. About everything!

This Mother’s Day, thank her for waiting patiently for you to finally realize it.

Crabs ... From page 1

1730 LaBounty Drive in Ferndale (360) 384-2803

Exit 262 on I-5, in the Grocery Outlet Plaza borthwickjewelry.com

s A map of the planned trapping sites in Drayton Harbor for this year. Core sites will be checked every other week, while index sites will be checked at least monthly. The pillars core site refers to the old Cherry Street pier. Image courtesy Allie Simpson/ Northwest Straits Commission

ropean Green Crabs in nearby Lummi Bay and Samish Bay last year. “I am pleased with the level of effort the group was able to pull off last year,” Grason said. “There were a couple of hundred crabs, which is more than anywhere else in the Salish Sea.” In total, about 250 crabs were caught in 2020. As for the number of years it will take scientists to eradicate the crab in Drayton Harbor, Grason said that question is not yet possible to answer. “It depends if green crabs show up in new cohorts coming from outside Drayton Harbor,” she said, adding that the number of young crabs will need to go down. “We’re on the road to figuring out how the European

green crabs are moving around the Salish Sea.” A new trapping location was set up this year at the mouth of Dakota Creek, where the same scientists discovered many young crabs when they began checking the area last fall. “There was a substantial number of crabs coming from Dakota Creek so we wanted to make sure we assessed that more regularly,” Buffington said. During the week ending April 30, scientists began adding traps to three areas along California Creek and three areas along Dakota Creek that will be checked at least monthly, Buffington said. Two of the core sites used last year, the jetty near Blaine Marina and a small creek between Dakota and California creeks were removed from this year’s core sites, Buffington said.

Buffington said the team plans to assess Birch Bay more after a crab was caught at the mouth of Terrell Creek in October. The team is also looking to do a largescale assessment of tidal trapping in Drayton Harbor, which is a proposition that will require help from local boaters to check deep-water traps, Grason said. The scientists are also looking for help from landowners who will allow the scientists to trap on property to ensure there are no trapping gaps in Drayton Harbor and nearby creeks have been checked for the green crab, Buffington said. “Wherever we can get, we’re going to trap,” Buffington said. Landowners can contact Chelsey Buffington about trapping on their property by emailing her at Chelsey.Buffington@ dfw.wa.gov.

s European Green Crab.

Photo courtesy Chelsey Buffington/WDFW

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April 29 - May 5, 2021 • thenorthernlight.com

Covid-19 in Whatcom County, New earthquake warning comes to Washington May 4 by school district boundaries: By Nolan Baker Starting May 4, Washington residents will be able to receive early warnings of incoming earthquakes on their mobile phones, thanks to the ShakeAlert earthquake early warning system. The system, which is operated by the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) in tandem with the Pacific Northwest Seismic Network, is not “earthquake prediction,” but can provide crucial information about earthquakes that have already begun. Washington now becomes the final West Coast state to implement the ShakeAlert system. The early detection technology debuted in California in October 2019, and in Oregon in March. “We all know an earthquake could strike at any time,” governor Jay Inslee said in a statement. “An earthquake early warning system could provide the critical time needed for Washingtonians to drop, cover and hold on. It has the potential to save lives and reduce damage to critical infrastructure.” When an earthquake occurs, different types of waves are sent out by the rupturing fault, the quickest being the “P-wave.” Sensors placed around the state, positioned 6-12 miles apart, detect the fast-traveling P-waves and transmit that data to a ShakeAlert processing center. The data is processed so that the location of the fault, size of the earthquake and estimated shaking can be quickly determined. If the earthquake is big enough to warrant a warning, then USGS sends out a ShakeAlert message. The message is then relayed to services that alert the public to the incoming earthquake. ShakeAlert in Washington will be able to send out alerts through multiple avenues to notify as many residents as possible. Anyone in Washington will be able to

receive a message directly to their cell phones through the ShakeAlert app, through a wireless emergency alert similar to Amber Alerts, or through other means. “The system also has the potential to automatically close water valves to protect water supplies, lift fire station doors so first responders can get vehicles and equipment out, slow down trains so they don’t derail and even warn hospitals to halt surgeries, among many other capabilities,” the press release stated. Washington lies in the middle of the Cascadia subduction zone, a tectonic plate boundary that stretches from Northern California to Vancouver Island. Washington only has about 65 percent of the earthquake sensor network complete, according to the press release, so not all residents would receive a notification in the event of an earthquake. “With the current ShakeAlert system,” the press release reads, “in an M9 Cascadia Subduction Zone earthquake, alerts will be sent but users farthest away from the epicenter may not receive an alert.” Inslee said that while having infrastructure in place to warn citizens of incoming tremors is crucial, Washingtonians still need to be prepared for disasters. During the event of an earthquake, “drop, cover and hold on” is recommended to stay safe. “Nothing can replace families having an emergency plan in place and being at least two weeks ready,” Inslee said. ShakeAlert will host a webinar on Thursday, April 29 to inform the public on how to use the new system. No registration is needed for the webinar that will run from 10 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. on Microsoft Teams. There will be a Q&A at the end and captions are available in seven languages. To attend the webinar, visit bit.ly/ WAShakeAlert.

Burk Road closure this week Whatcom County Public Works will close Burk Road between Sunrise Road and Delta Line Road from 7 a.m. Monday, May 3, to 5 p.m. Tuesday, May 4, for a culvert replacement project. All traffic, including emergency vehicles and school buses, won’t be let through but

detours will be available. Closure dates and times could change because the project is weather dependent. Community members with questions can contact Whatcom County Public Works Maintenance and Operations at 360/778-6400.

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Recent two-week case rates and cumulative counts Blaine Rate: 404 Count: 521

Lynden Rate: 198 Count: 1295

Ferndale Meridian Rate: 311 Rate: 93 Count: 1600 Count: 409

Nooksack Valley Rate: 126 Count: 2855 Mt. Baker Rate: 165 Count: 446

Bellingham Rate: 118 Count: 2855

s The rate is the number of confirmed Covid-19 cases per 100,000 people over the past two weeks. Rates were updated April 24.

By Grace McCarthy Whatcom County has had a total of 7,991 confirmed cases of Covid-19 since the start of the pandemic and 305 probable cases (8,296 total cases), according to April 26 Washington State Department of Health (DOH) data. The county’s death toll remains at 89; the percent of deaths per total confirmed cases is 1.1 percent. The Blaine school district’s Covid-19 case rates over the past two weeks once again climbed, increasing from 296 cases per 100,000 people last week to 404 cases per 100,000 this week. These are the highest case rates Blaine has seen since the Whatcom County health department began aggregating Covid-19 data by school districts last summer. Except Meridian, all other school districts increased in case rates. The county should receive at least 5,310 first doses of vaccine this week, although this number is likely to be higher once vaccine doses from the federal retail pharmacy program are counted. Last week, Whatcom County received at least 13,620 first doses.

About 29.5 percent of county residents are fully vaccinated and 42.5 percent have received at least one shot of Pfizer, Moderna or Johnson and Johnson, according to the department. (The Johnson and Johnson vaccine only requires one shot to be fully effective.) The department reports that 67,159 county residents are fully vaccinated and 96,812 residents have received their first shot. The state department of health (DOH) is no longer banning the use of the Johnson and Johnson vaccine. Statewide, 5,157,791 vaccine doses have been administered. About 28.3 percent of people in Washington are fully vaccinated

and 40.9 percent have received one dose. Washington state has had 369,481 confirmed cases since the start of the pandemic and 29,028 probable cases (probable cases come from an antigen test). In all, 5,462 people in Washington with the virus have died as of April 26 and 22,033 have been hospitalized. For more Whatcom County information, visit whatcomcounty. us/covidvaccine and whatcomcounty.us/coviddata. State information is available on the Washington State Department of Health’s website at bit. ly/3r2URJj. Vaccine locations can be found at bit.ly/3nZiMqr. For CDC data, visit bit.ly/39Kt4qh.

Fun Times at The Vault May 6 - 7 pm ‘90s Themed Trivia May 7 - 5-8 pm Hard Alcohol Launch with cocktails crafted by guest bartender Brandon Wicklund 7 pm Live Music with The Alex Kelsh Duo May 13 - 7 pm General Knowledge Trivia May 14 - 7 pm Live Music with JP Falcon

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The Northern Light • April 29 - May 5, 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

Working Waterfront Coalition annual fundraiser a hit

s The Working Waterfront Coalition of Whatcom County held two seatings for its annual fundraiser, Tide to Table, on April 20 at Drayton Harbor Oyster Company (DHOC), raising money for scholarships in the marine trades. Over 6,000 jobs in Whatcom County are created or supported by the maritime sector, representing 7 percent of the total workforce. Clockwise from top left: Pete and Debbie Granger, board members of the Working Waterfront Coalition; the seafood for the Celebration of the Salish Sea dinner was sourced and prepared by DHOC and Kaisacole Seafoods. The seafood tower was a hit; Louise Mugar, co-publisher of The Northern Light, won the Chuck the Shuks competition at the first seating, as did Ellen Clothier in the second competition; the Criswells and Jenkins enjoyed the food and festivities. Courtesy photos

Letters

Editor Grace McCarthy grace@pointrobertspress.com Reporter Ian Haupt ian@pointrobertspress.com Reporting Interns Nolan Baker, Sienna Boucher 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 Doug Dahl, Gary Dunster, Andy Peterson The Northern Light 225 Marine Drive, Suite 200, Blaine, WA 98230 Tel: 360/332-1777 Vol XXVI, No 45 Circulation: 10,500 copies

Circulation Independently verified by:

Next issue: May 6 Ads due: April 30

The Editor: The Blaine High School Hall of Fame was formed four years ago under the auspices of the Blaine Booster Club, a 50.1 C3 support group of BHS athletics. Its purpose is to honor former BHS athletes, coaches and community members who have exemplified excellence and sacrifice in support of all areas of athletics. In 2019, our first class of inductees was honored and introduced to our community at a home football game and the next day at a ceremony in the PAC. They consisted of: • Football State Champions, 1978; • Bob Robertson, Contributor,1947; • Coaches Craig Foster and Rob Ridnour; • Tim Evans, 1974; • Richard “Handshake” Hanson, 1964; • Chris Jorgensen, 1989; • Ken “Bud” Markusen, 1962; • Cherish Morrison, 2012; • Luke Ridnour, 2000; • Leslie Seelye, 1997; • Jessica Summers, 2004; • David Wiens, 1973. Our new class of inductees were chosen

but because of Covid-19, we were unable to have our ceremony last year and postponed it until 2021. Here are the names of the new inductees: • 1990 State Champion Wrestling Team • 1990 Baseball State Champions • Contributor Dale Flint • Distinguished Honorees: Ernie Jacobs, Bob Robbins • Athletes Joe Pacioreki, baseball; Dwayne Magnusson, wrestling; Teresa Holleman Goninan, track; Becky Riddle, track and field; Joan Swanson, volleyball, basketball, softball and track; and Rodney Dohner, football, wrestling and baseball. Our community was challenged in many ways this past year, including the yearlong border closing. Because of this, we were hesitant to ask businesses to help us pay the expenses for such a ceremony. Thus, the reason for this letter: We are seeking financial assistance from the “community at large.” Whatever you may want or be able to donate for this tax-deductible cause will help defray the expenses involved in an awards ceremony such as this. Donations may be sent to: Blaine

Booster Club, P.O. Box 152, Blaine, WA 98231. The date for this year’s ceremony is scheduled for October 8-9. Mark your calendars now. Gary Clausen BHS Hall of Fame Committee chairman Blaine (See Letters, page 15) Please send letters to letters@thenorthernlight.com no later than noon on Monday.

Correction In an article titled “Onyon won’t seek re-election as mayor,” in the April 22 issue of The Northern Light, the title incorrectly made it seem the city of Blaine’s mayor is an elected position. Mayor Bonnie Onyon’s Ward 1 Position 2 seat on council is up for re-election as a councilmember. Blaine City Council will then appoint one councilmember as mayor. We regret the error.

Civic Meetings Birch Bay Water & Sewer District: Second and fourth Thursdays, 4 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.

April 29 - May 5, 2021 • thenorthernlight.com

Road Rules: Pedestrians on roadways By Doug Dahl Question: What are the rules regarding pedestrians walking on the roadway when there is an obstruction-free sidewalk available? Runners and joggers tend to prefer using the asphalt over the concrete sidewalks available on just about every street in my neighborhood. I have heard that some runners claim asphalt is more forgiving on their joints but I believe that is unsupported by any data that I could find. Answer: I’m no running expert, so I took a look at a few studies to see if there was any validity to the claim that running on asphalt is better for your joints than running on concrete. The studies were inconclusive so I sought out the input of experienced runners. Advice ranged from “Concrete should be avoided like the plague,” to “The thickness of your socks has a greater cushioning effect than the difference in hardness between concrete and asphalt.” Again inconclusive. But from the perspective of traffic safety, here’s my take: Any perceived benefit from running on a slightly more forgiving surface is offset if multi-ton vehicles you can’t outrun share the surface. Yes, athletes have reason to be concerned about training injuries, but your most likely injury while running in the road is probably getting hit by a car. If you’re a runner, you might be saying, “Yeah, but have you seen the sidewalks in my neighborhood?” I probably haven’t been to

your neighborhood, but I’ve seen it in mine. Next to my house, there’s a sidewalk lifted several inches by tree roots, causing a tripping hazard, right next to a smooth asphalt roadway. Sometimes we’re making a choice between two less-than-ideal options. But the original question is about rules, and of the two choices I just mentioned, only one of them is legal. The Revised Code of Washington states that, “Where sidewalks are provided and are accessible, it is unlawful for any pedestrian to walk or otherwise move along and upon an adjacent roadway.” Predictability reduces risk. Our traffic laws create (when we adhere to them) predictability on the road. Even seemingly minor laws, like the requirement to use a turn signal (yes, that’s a reminder to use your turn signal), all contribute to predictability and safety. As a pedestrian, you want to be visible to drivers, and part of that is being predictable. We generally think about visibility in terms of wearing bright clothing, and that’s true. But there’s more to visibility than, “Can the driver see you?” There’s also the question of, “Does the driver expect to see you?” The world presents more visual data than we can take in. If you’ve ever noticed something new on your commute, like maybe a prominent building got fresh paint, and when you mention it to a friend they say it happened two months ago, you

H Street annexation public hearing pushed to May 10 By Grace McCarthy The public hearing for the H Street annexation has been pushed to the May 10 Blaine City Council meeting after residents contacted the city concerned about little public notice. The hearing was previously scheduled for the April 26 council meeting. If approved by council, the proposed annexation could add two east Blaine properties totaling 4.8 acres to city limits. This could be the first annexation since 1996, according to city documents. Council first discussed the annexation during a January 25 work-study session and then approved two resolutions at its February 22 meeting authorizing the city to hold a public hearing, mandatory in the annexation process. Landowner Patrick Rooney, who owns a 3.2-acre property at 4455 H Street Road, submitted his annexation application last November. Councilmembers can also vote to annex an adjacent 1.6-acre property at 2221 Cedar-

wood Lane because of an agreement the property owner made with the city in 2002. Residents were concerned that the city of Blaine did not publish a notice in The Northern Light and that residents did not have enough time to add comments before the hearing, according to an email community development director Stacie Pratschner sent to councilmembers on April 23. Pratschner said in the email that delaying the hearing will give residents more time to review the proposal. The city of Blaine had scheduled notices in The Bellingham Herald and had three signs advertising the hearing in the proposed H Street annexation area. City clerk Sam Crawford said during the council meeting that the city had received over a handful of written comments for the public hearing. Written comments are due by 4:30 p.m. on Monday, May 10. For more information on submitting a written comment, visit bit.ly/3gLfyH5.

Blaine residents make EWU dean’s list for winter quarter Caleb and Cayla Bullard made Eastern Washington University’s (EWU) dean’s list for winter quarter. EWU undergraduates

who earn a 3.5 GPA or higher and take at least 12 credit hours of classes are placed on the dean’s list.

NOTICE OF CITY COUNCIL PUBLIC HEARING: H STREET ROAD ANNEXATION

know what I’m talking about. Our brains have to be selective about the data they process, and that applies to our driving. You didn’t notice the painted building because you weren’t expecting it and your brain filtered it to focus on more important things. Similarly, a driver is less likely to notice a pedestrian in a location where they don’t expect someone to be walking or running. We look for what we expect to see. That’s not an excuse for drivers to ignore pedestrians; when you’re the biggest thing on the road, you have a responsibility to be, well, the most responsible. It’s more of a recognition that all of us, whether we’re drivers, walkers, runners or riders all contribute to traffic safety in our communities. Doug Dahl is a manager with the Washington Traffic Safety Commission, Region 11 and publishes TheWiseDrive.com.

PROJECT - H Street Road Annexation / File Number 2020078 PUBLIC HEARING - Monday, May 10, 2021 at 6 PM Please Note: City Council meetings are currently being conducted entirely through teleconference. Instructions on how to listen live and join the meeting online will be provided approximately 72 hours prior to the public hearing on the City’s website: www.cityofblaine.com. DESCRIPTION - Pursuant to the Revised Code of Washington (RCW) 35A.14.120, a request for annexation of approximately 3.26 acres in the City of Blaine Urban Growth Area (UGA). Pursuant to an Outside Utility Agreement recorded under Auditor’s File Number (AFN) 2020603045, the City of Blaine with limited and nonrevocable power of attorney will annex an additional approximate 1.63 acres into the City limits. PROPONENTS Irma P. Rooney Living Trust, c/o: Patrick Rooney, PO Box 851, Blaine, WA 98231 LOCATION - Assessor Parcel Numbers (APNs) 400105058534: 4455 H Street Road; and, 400105043532: 2221 Cedarwood Lane PUBLIC COMMENT AND TESTIMONY - Interested persons are invited to provide written comment and log in to the hearing to voice approval or disapproval of the annexation. Email comments must be sent to spratschner@cityofblaine.com with the proposed project name (H Street Road Annexation) in the subject line. Include your comments in the body of the message, rather than as attachments. Comments must be received by 4:30 PM Monday, Monday, May 10, 2021. You may also comment at the public hearing. Testimony is limited to five minutes. Instructions on how to listen live and join the meeting online will be provided approximately 72 hours prior to the public hearing on the City’s website: www.cityofblaine.com.

FILE INFORMATION AND NEXT STEPS

STAFF CONTACT - Stacie Pratschner, AICP, RPA: Community Development Director: spratschner@cityofblaine.com and (360) 332-8311 FILE MATERIALS - The submitted application documents and supporting materials are on file for public review at the following website: https://www. ci.blaine.wa.us/DocumentCenter/View/16925/Study-Session---Rooneyannexation-staff-report. A public hearing staff report and Request for Council Action will be available at the following City website approximately 72 hours prior to the scheduled public hearing on Monday, May 10, 2021: https://www. ci.blaine.wa.us/Calendar.aspx?EID=2406. NEXT STEPS AND APPEALS - Subsequent to the Public Hearing, the request may be forwarded to the Whatcom County Boundary Review Board for final approval. The BRB is the appeal body for annexation decisions.

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.

CITY OF BLAINE Continued Electrical Work Crews will continue improvements on the electrical system in central Blaine through June 30. Public Works will notify affected residents three days prior to an outage with door hangers providing information on when the outage will occur and the duration of the outage.

Monday, May 10 6:00pm – City Council Meeting Public Hearing: Proposed Annexation of 4455 H Street, Blaine, WA 98230 (Rooney Annexation)

For more information, please call 360.332.8820 or visit our website at www.cityofblaine.com.

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

Thursday, May 13 9:00am – Parks and

The Immigration Law Firm

Cemetery Board Meeting

2:00pm – Public Works

•• U.S. U.S. green greencards cards/ /naturalization naturalization •• Work / investor visas Inadmissibility waivers TN (NAFTA) work permits •• Denied entry waivers U.S. Citizenship •• Removal hearingsclaims • NEXUS appeals

Advisory Committee Meeting 6:00pm – Planning Commission Meeting

Monday, May 24 6:00pm – City Council Meeting

360-332-7100 360-332-7100

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

www.blaineimmigration.com• •435 435Martin MartinSt., St., Suite Suite2010 1010 ••Blaine, www.blaineimmigration.com Blaine,WA WA

Leonard atLaw Law LeonardD.M. D.M.Saunders, Saunders, Attorney Attorney at

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

www.cityofblaine.com

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The Northern Light • April 29 - May 5, 2021

Sports Borderites remain on conference leaderboards for spring season sports By Ian Haupt Baseball The Borderites hosted Lynden Christian April 22, losing in a high-scoring 14-11 game. On April 24, they beat Bellingham at home 9-4. Then the boys traveled to Anacortes April 26 where they lost 2-1 to the Seahawks. The next day they beat Nooksack Valley 14-3 in Everson. As of April 25, Everett Simpson sits fourth on the conference batting average leaderboard, batting .458, while Axel Puls sits in tenth, with an average of .391. Simpson and Puls also sit in fifth and ninth for on-base percentage in the conference, .581 and .548. Puls is third in slugging percentage with a .696. Simpson is fourth in runs scored with 12, while Jaxon Kortlever sits tied for ninth with multiple players with nine runs. The Borderites host Mount Baker on Thursday, April 29, at 4:30 p.m. and travel to Oak Har-

bor the following Tuesday, May 4. The team’s season record is 5-5. Boys soccer The Borderites have had multiple games canceled in a row with only two games played so far this season. Both were before spring break. The Northern Light has made multiple attempts to contact athletic director Sean Linville with no response. The next game still on the schedule is at home against Oak Harbor on Friday, April 30. Softball The Borderites hosted a double-header against Mount Baker April 23. The team won the first game 5-4 and lost the second 8-4. They then traveled to Nooksack Valley April 27 for two big defeats, 11-1 and 14-4. As of April 25, Anika Hagen sits eighth in the conference for batting average, hitting .500. Piper Nelson is tied for second in doubles with five other players who each have four. For triples, Tatum Cox sits tied for second

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s A Borderite up to bat at the April 16 baseball game against Sehome High School. with three others with 2. Next, the team travels to Oak Harbor Wednesday, May 5. The girls are 3-7 so far this season. Track and Field Boys and girls track and field traveled to Lynden Christian April 28 for a three-school meet between the Lynx and Burlington-Edison. As of April 25, Scott Baldwin remains on the conference leaderboard in high jump, tied for fourth with other athletes with a height of 5’8”. Wiconi Bowers has the second fastest girls 400-meter with a time of 1:04.31. In the girls pole vault, Diana Kovtun rounds out the top five with a height of 7 feet 6 inches. Both teams are scheduled to compete in a multi-school meet at Nooksack Valley on Wednesday, May 5.

Golf Girls golf has a conference game at Lake Padden Monday, May 3. The boys are scheduled to play in two multi-school conference games in Lynden and Ferndale on Monday, May 3, and Thursday, May 6.

Photo by Janell Kortlever

Girls tennis The Blaine girls tennis team hosted Lynden on April 22 and lost 7-0. The girls tennis team is scheduled to host Bellingham on Friday, April 30, and Mount Vernon on Monday, May 3.

Whatcom Land Trust hosts Conservation Conversations Whatcom Land Trust is hosting two virtual events, Conservation Conversations, this week to explore how the environmental organization is working against climate change and ways community members can get involved. The free events will run from 1 p.m. to 2 p.m. on Thursday, April 29, and from 5:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. on Thursday, May 6. What-

com Land Trust’s executive director Gabe Epperson and stewardship director Jennifer Mackey will discuss how the organization is protecting watersheds such as California Creek and new land protections in the area. Registration is required for the events and can be accessed at whatcomlandtrust.org/event/ conservation-conversations.

Member of the Month

Miracle Food Network Connecting to Empower 288 Martin Street, Suite 205, Blaine, WA 98230 360-685-1013 • www.MiracleFoodNetwork.org

Number of active volunteers: 112 How long in business: Since 2015 Description of organization: Miracle Food Network (MFN) is a 501 (c) (3) charity that receives fresh food from various donors and distributes this food quickly to local individuals and families. We use food to connect resources to underserved people in our communities. We often assist with access to medical care, behavioral health, vaccinations, and community assistance through partner agencies in Whatcom County, such as the Community Assistance Program (CAP) in Blaine. We have a Chaplain Support program that serves our clients, the general public, our volunteers and their families. Chaplains help people with coaching to help get “unstuck” from grief, depression, relationship issues, and more. Chaplains assist people in navigating behavioral health access and encourage treatment from licensed professionals in our partner agencies. How the organization started: MFN began after our founder, Doug Robertson realized that when good food was available, people show up. When people share food with each other, it sparks conversation. Those conversations build relationships that regularly connect opportunities with needs. Future Goals: In January of 2021 we opened our new headquarters in Blaine to support Whatcom County. We are seeking use of commercial kitchens, cold storage, and food box preparation facilities here in Blaine to grow our local footprint and expand services. MFN is actively planning for the development of a new building in Blaine. It will provide a USDA & WSDA certified commercial kitchen, a cottage food business incubator, and retail space to sell these local food products. It will also be a workforce training center for people looking to develop marketable skills and experience. New space allows for a community services hub with chaplain services and coworking center for our community services partners, allowing Blaine residents to access assistance programs, while saving a trip to Bellingham. MFN’s new complex and expanded headquarters will help meet current and future needs here in Blaine. Featured businesses are selected randomly from the Blaine Community Chamber of Commerce membership.

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October. Tomatoes rarely receive enough prolonged heat to yield huge luscious beefsteak tomatoes – unless you have a greenhouse or an especially warm sunny garden. So if you are committed to growing a particular vegetable or fruit, check out its ‘days to harvest’ before buying it. The smaller the number, the more likely you are to eat well. We can extend our season a little by using shoulder-month protection like floating row covers in vegetable gardens, but you might be happier simply growing some cooler season crops, like chard, kale and garlic. Popular ornamentals have a better time of it, so feel free to invest in your favorite annuals and frost-hardy perennials.

For those just getting into gardening during the pandemic, there is so much to tell you, so much to convey about how to garden in our corner of the Pacific Northwest. We are fortunate in having a mild climate for all sorts of growing, but also face some challenges. But first to our climate. In North America, we use U.S. Department of Agriculture hardiness zones to determine what sorts of plants will thrive. This is a numeric system, which quantifies how cold it gets in an average winter, ranging from a low of 1a (-60 F, as in northern Alaska) to a high of 13b (65 F, as in Puerto Rico). We are a comfortable 8a (10 F) – the same as most of Britain, with its world-class gardens. Hardiness zone determines which plants will survive the winter, so we are fortunate in being able to winter over all sorts of popular ornamental and food plants. How great is that? Summers are generally mild, sunny and dry – much like our unusually balmy April this year. This makes working outside pleasant, but the aridity challenges gardeners. Unlike the distributed rainfall that British and East Coast plants receive, ours receive virtually no rainfall in summer. Native plants thrive in these conditions, and gardening with them is highly recommended. Xeriscaping, or dry gardening, is not: those plants will rot in our cold winter rains. Many desirable non-native ornamentals and edibles grow vigorously in our summer sun and long days, but get thirsty. Unless you want to spend summers dragging around a hose or watering can, you must invest in an irrigation system – a drip system if your plants are permanently sited or an in-ground spray system for broader or more flexible coverage. Another climate characteristic is that our growing season is approximately eight months, between the last frost at the end of March and the first frost at the beginning of November. This limits the cultivation of edibles developed in climes with a longer and hotter season, especially those that will not tolerate our usual April temperatures or our October cold rain. Basil, eggplant, okra and tomatoes will not even make it into

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April 29 - May 5, 2021 • thenorthernlight.com

GET OUT

BOATING! Keep boat safety in mind before hitting the waves this summer By Andy Peterson Boating safety is one of the most important pieces of the boating puzzle. Planning in advance will ensure you have all the tools in place to ensure you have a safe and memorable boating adventure. Boater education is a critical component of safety out on the water. Boaters should be reminded that Washington State now

s The Blaine Harbor.

requires boat operators ages 12 years and older to pass a boating safety course and obtain a Boater Education Card before operating a motorized vessel of 15 horsepower or greater. This requirement can be satisfied by completing an online course, or in some cases providing proof of completing an approved boating safety course. More information (See Boat safety, page 10)

Photo by Ruth Lauman

The 37th year of blessing the fleet By Gary Dunster Because of Covid-19 restrictions, we were unable to have the Blessing of the Fleet Ceremony in 2020. However, this year we are happy to announce that we will hold the ceremony on Sunday, May 2 at 1:30 p.m. at Blaine Harbor. The only difference from previous years will be that it will be held outside at gate 2, so everyone can socially distance and wear a mask. When I look back, we had the blessing at the Sawtooth Dock and the end of the pier for over 20

years in all kinds of weather. So, we will take a step back in time and dress warmly once more. The agenda will be the same with music and dignitaries. We will recognize the 40 fishers who have been lost at sea and whose names are on the memorial plaque. We will also recognize those fishers who have passed away since the last Blessing of the Fleet in May 2019. In the last 18 months or so, we were able to complete the restoration of the Fisherman’s Tabletop and now have it hanging in the conference room by the har-

bor office. We also had the engraving on the memorial plaque brought up to date. Bay Engraving in Bellingham did the work. As we have in the past, we are offering a $500 scholarship for the ninth year in a row to one Blaine High School senior who is connected to the fishing industry. On behalf of the Fisherman’s Memorial Committee, we look forward to seeing you. Please mask up so we can protect each other. We will see you on May 2 at 1:30 p.m., rain or shine – keep an umbrella handy.

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The Northern Light • April 29 - May 5, 2021

More sunny days like this are on the way for Semiahmoo ...

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at bit.ly/3sZiJx9. Even experienced boaters and old salts can learn a thing or two. If you have completed your boater safety education course, you might want to refresh your skills as skipper by reviewing the Washington State Parks Adventures in Boating Handbook online at bit.ly/3t4dSuy. You might also consider signing up for a free dockside vessel safety check from the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary. More information and a link to request a free inspection can be found at cgaux.org/vsc. Before you head for the launch ramp or untie from the dock it’s a good idea to check your boating safety equipment including your life jackets. Life jackets, also referred to as PFDs (personal flotation devices), are designed to help keep you afloat in the water while you wait for rescue or work on rescuing yourself. Life jackets are designed to work best when properly worn, and not used as a seat cushion or pillow. According to the Adventures in Boating Handbook, provided by the Washington State Parks Boating Program, all vessels (including non-motorized watercraft) are required to have at least one U.S. Coast Guard (USCG) approved Type I, II, or III life jacket for each person on board. Washington state law requires that children 12 years old and younger must wear a USCG approved life jacket at all times when underway in a vessel less than 19 feet in length, unless in a fully enclosed area. The Blaine Harbor Office participates in the BoatUS Foundation’s Life Jacket Loaner Program for Kids. The program makes loaner life jackets available to boating families that do not have enough properly fitting life jackets aboard their boat for the day or weekend. Only a limited number of life jackets are available so please return the life jacket to the office as soon as possible for the next boater to use. Wear Your Life Jacket to Work Day will be observed on Friday, May 21. Hosted by the National Safe Boating Council, this annual event is a fun, educational way to heighten life jacket awareness and highlight the various styles just prior to the official launch of the 2021 Safe Boating Campaign. Wear your life jacket, snap a picture while at work and share on social media with the hashtag #lifejacketatwork or send it directly to the National Safe Boating Council at outreach@safeboatingcouncil.org. For more information of boater safety, visit parks.state.wa.us/450/ Boater-Safety. Wishing you a safe and memorable boating adventure! Andy Peterson is the harbormaster for Blaine Marina.

FIND IT IN THE CLASSIFIEDS! SEE PAGE 12 THENORTHERNLIGHT.COM

April 29 - May 5, 2021 • thenorthernlight.com

NEXT ISSUE: May 6 AD DEADLINE: May 3

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Legal NOTICE TO CREDITORS In the Superior Court of the State of Washington, In and for the County of Whatcom, In re the Estate of Shirlee Joyce Meyers. Probate No.21-400277-37 Judge: Robert Olson. The Personal Representative named below has been appointed as personal representative of this estate. Any person having a claim against the decedent must, before the time the claim would be barred by any otherwise applicable statute of limitations, present the claim in the manner as provided in RCW 11.40.070 by serving on or mailing to the personal representative or the personal representative’s attorney at the address stated below a copy of the claim and filing the original of the claim with the Clerk of this Court. The claim must be presented within the later of: (1) Thirty days after the personal representative served or mailed the notice to the creditor as provided under RCW 11.40.020(1)(c); or (2) four months after the date of first publication of the notice (twenty-four (24) months if notice is not published). If the claim is not presented within this time frame, the claim is forever barred, except as otherwise provided in RCW 11.40.051 and 11.40.060. This bar is effective as to claims against both the decedent’s probate and nonprobate assets. Date of first publication: 4/15/21. Personal Representative: David Meyers. Attorney for the Estate: Keith Bode, WSBA #7791 314 5th Street, P.O. Box 688, Lynden, WA 98264-0688, Tel. (360) 354-5021

IN THE SUPERIOR COURT OF THE STATE OF WASHINGTON IN AND FOR THE COUNTY OF WHATCOM In re the Matter and Estate of: ROBERTA MARIE NOTAR, Deceased. No. 21-4-00246-37. PROBATE NOTICE TO CREDITORS. RCW 11.40.030 The Personal Representative named below has been appointed as Personal Representative of this estate. Any person having a claim against the decedent must, before the time the claim would be barred by any otherwise applicable statute of limitations, present the claim in the manner as provided in RCW 11.40.070 by serving on or mailing to the Personal Representative or the Personal Representative’s attorney at the address stated below a copy of the claim and filing the original of the claim with the court in which the probate proceedings were commenced. The claim must be presented within the later of: (1) Thirty days after the Personal Representative served or mailed the notice to the creditor as provided under RCW 11.40.020(1) (c); or (2) four months after the date of first publication of the notice. If the claim is not presented within this time frame, the claim is forever barred, except as otherwise provided in RCW 11.40.051 and 11.40.060. This bar is effective as to claims against both the decedent’s probate and nonprobate assets. Notice of First Publication: April 8, 2021 Personal Representative: Robert Notar Presented by: Whatcom Law Group, P.S. Roger L. Ellingson, WSBA #19292 Attorney for Personal Representative PO Box 1258 / 289 H Street Blaine, WA 98231-1258 (360) 332-7000; Fax: (360) 332-6677

NOTICE TO CREDITORS In the Superior Court of the State of Washington, In and for the County of Whatcom, In re the Estate of Terrence Roger DeValois. Probate No.21-400279-37 Judge: Evan Jones. The Personal Representative named below has been appointed as personal representative of this estate. Any person having a claim against the decedent must, before the time the claim would be barred by any otherwise applicable statute of limitations, present the claim in the manner as provided in RCW 11.40.070 by serving on or mailing to the personal representative or the personal representative’s attorney at the address stated below a copy of the claim and filing the original of the claim with the Clerk of this Court. The claim must be presented within the later of: (1) Thirty days after the personal representative served or mailed the notice to the creditor as provided under RCW 11.40.020(1)(c); or (2) four months after the date of first publication of the notice (twenty-four (24) months if notice is not published). If the claim is not presented within this time frame, the claim is forever barred, except as otherwise provided in RCW 11.40.051 and 11.40.060. This bar is effective as to claims against both the decedent’s probate and nonprobate assets. Date of first publication: 4/22/21. Personal Representative: Michelle R. Van Dellen. Attorney for the Estate: Keith Bode, WSBA #7791 314 5th Street, P.O. Box 688, Lynden, WA 98264-0688, Tel. (360) 354-5021

NOTICE TO CREDITORS In the Superior Court of the State of Washington, In and for the County of Whatcom, In re the Estate of Freda Garetta Visser. Probate No. 21-400278-37 Judge: Lee Grochmal. The Personal Representative named below has been appointed as personal representative of this estate. Any person having a claim against the decedent must, before the time the claim would be barred by any otherwise applicable statute of limitations, present the claim in the manner as provided in RCW 11.40.070 by serving on or mailing to the personal representative or the personal representative’s attorney at the address stated below a copy of the claim and filing the original of the claim with the Clerk of this Court. The claim must be presented within the later of: (1) Thirty days after the personal representative served or mailed the notice to the creditor as provided under RCW 11.40.020(1)(c); or (2) four months after the date of first publication of the notice (twenty-four (24) months if notice is not published). If the claim is not presented within this time frame, the claim is forever barred, except as otherwise provided in RCW 11.40.051 and 11.40.060. This bar is effective as to claims against both the decedent’s probate and nonprobate assets. Date of first publication: 4/15/21. Personal Representative: Robert Visser. Attorney for the Estate: Keith Bode, WSBA #7791 314 5th Street, P.O. Box 688, Lynden, WA 98264-0688, Tel. (360) 354-5021

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Legal NOTICE TO CREDITORS In the Superior Court of the State of Washington, In and for the County of Whatcom, In re the Estate of Freda Garetta Visser. Probate No. 21-400278-37 Judge: Lee Grochmal. The Personal Representative named below has been appointed as personal representative of this estate. Any person having a claim against the decedent must, before the time the claim would be barred by any otherwise applicable statute of limitations, present the claim in the manner as provided in RCW 11.40.070 by serving on or mailing to the personal representative or the personal representative’s attorney at the address stated below a copy of the claim and filing the original of the claim with the Clerk of this Court. The claim must be presented within the later of: (1) Thirty days after the personal representative served or mailed the notice to the creditor as provided under RCW 11.40.020(1)(c); or (2) four months after the date of first publication of the notice (twenty-four (24) months if notice is not published). If the claim is not presented within this time frame, the claim is forever barred, except as otherwise provided in RCW 11.40.051 and 11.40.060. This bar is effective as to claims against both the decedent’s probate and nonprobate assets. Date of first publication: 4/15/21. Personal Representative: Robert Visser. Attorney for the Estate: Keith Bode, WSBA #7791 314 5th Street, P.O. Box 688, Lynden, WA 98264-0688, Tel. (360) 354-5021 IN THE SUPERIOR COURT OF THE STATE OF WASHINGTON IN AND FOR WHATCOM COUNTY In re the Estate of: KEITH E. JOHNSON, Deceased. No. 214-00311-37. NOTICE TO CREDITORS. Judge David E. Freeman The Administrator named below has been appointed and has qualified as Administrator of this estate. Any person having a claim against the decedent must, before the time the claim would be barred by any otherwise applicable statute of limitations, present the claim in the manner as provided in RCW 11.40.070 by serving on or mailing to the Administrator or the Administrator’s attorney at the address stated below a copy of the claim and filing the original of the claim with the court in which the probated proceedings were commenced. The claim must be presented within the later of: (1) thirty days after the Administrator served or mailed the notice to the creditor as provided under RCW 11.40.020(1)(c); or (2) four months after the date of first publication of the notice. If the claim is not presented within this time frame, the claim is forever barred, except as otherwise provided in RCW 11.40.051 AND 11.40.060. This bar is effective as to claims against both the decedent’s probate and nonprobate assets. Date of Filing of Notice to Creditors: April 15, 2021 with Clerk of Court: Date of First Publication: April 22, 2021 Name of Administrator: LYNNE YUROVCHAK Attorney for Administrators: Steven D. Avery, WSBA #35262 Address for Mailing or Service: Avery Elder Law, P.S. 801 Samish Way, Ste. 202 Bellingham WA 98229 Telephone: (360) 325-2550 Email: steve@averyelderlaw.com STEVEN D. AVERY, WSBA #35262 Attorney for Administrator LYNNE YUROVCHAK www.averyelderlaw.com

Advertise Here! Call 360-332-1777 Classifieds work! Legal IN THE SUPERIOR COURT OF THE STATE OF WASHINGTON IN AND FOR WHATCOM COUNTY In re the Estate of: JUDITH MEADOWS, Deceased. No. 214-00331-37. NOTICE TO CREDITORS. Judge David E. Freeman The Administrator named below has been appointed and has qualified as Administrator of this estate. Any person having a claim against the decedent must, before the time the claim would be barred by any otherwise applicable statute of limitations, present the claim in the manner as provided in RCW 11.40.070 by serving on or mailing to the Administrator or the Administrator’s attorney at the address stated below a copy of the claim and filing the original of the claim with the court in which the probated proceedings were commenced. The claim must be presented within the later of: (1) thirty days after the Administrator served or mailed the notice to the creditor as provided under RCW 11.40.020(1)(c); or (2) four months after the date of first publication of the notice. If the claim is not presented within this time frame, the claim is forever barred, except as otherwise provided in RCW 11.40.051 AND 11.40.060. This bar is effective as to claims against both the decedent’s probate and nonprobate assets. Date of Filing of Notice to Creditors: April 22, 2021 with Clerk of Court Date of First Publication: April 29, 2021 Name of Administrator: CINDY MAXWELL Attorney for Administrators: Steven D. Avery, WSBA #35262 Address for Mailing or Service: Avery Elder Law, P.S. 801 Samish Way, Ste. 202 Bellingham WA 98229 Telephone: (360) 325-2550 Email: steve@averyelderlaw.com DATED: April 22, 2021 AVERY ELDER LAW, P.S. STEVEN D. AVERY, WSBA #35262 Attorney for Administrator: CINDY MAXWELL www.averyelderlaw.com IN THE SUPERIOR COURT OF THE STATE OF WASHINGTON IN AND FOR WHATCOM COUNTY In re the Estate of: TED LINDER HOLEMAN, Deceased. No. 214-00312-37. NOTICE TO CREDITORS. Judge Robert E. Olson The Administrator named below has been appointed and has qualified as Administrator of this estate. Any person having a claim against the decedent must, before the time the claim would be barred by any otherwise applicable statute of limitations, present the claim in the manner as provided in RCW 11.40.070 by serving on or mailing to the Administrator or the Administrator’s attorney at the address stated below a copy of the claim and filing the original of the claim with the court in which the probated proceedings were commenced. The claim must be presented within the later of: (1) thirty days after the Administrator served or mailed the notice to the creditor as provided under RCW 11.40.020(1)(c); or (2) four months after the date of first publication of the notice. If the claim is not presented within this time frame, the claim is forever barred, except as otherwise provided in RCW 11.40.051 AND 11.40.060. This bar is effective as to claims against both the decedent’s probate and nonprobate assets. Date of Filing of Notice to Creditors: April 15, 2021 with Clerk of Court: Date of First Publication: April 22, 2021 Name of Administrator: CHRISTOPHER HOLEMAN Attorney for Administrators: Steven D. Avery, WSBA #35262 Address for Mailing or Service: Avery Elder Law, P.S. 801 Samish Way, Ste. 202 Bellingham WA 98229 Telephone: (360) 325-2550 Email: steve@averyelderlaw.com DATED April 15, 2021 AVERY ELDER LAW, P.S. STEVEN D. AVERY, WSBA #35262 Attorney for Administrator CHRISTOPHER HOLEMAN www.averyelderlaw.com

Legal IN THE SUPERIOR COURT OF THE STATE OF WASHINGTON IN AND FOR WHATCOM COUNTY In re the Estate of: RONALD JOHN DASCH, Deceased. No. 21-4-00272-37. NOTICE TO CREDITORS Judge Evan Jones The Administrator named below has been appointed and has qualified as Administrator of this estate. Any person having a claim against the decedent must, before the time the claim would be barred by any otherwise applicable statute of limitations, present the claim in the manner as provided in RCW 11.40.070 by serving on or mailing to the Administrator or the Administrator’s attorney at the address stated below a copy of the claim and filing the original of the claim with the court in which the probated proceedings were commenced. The claim must be presented within the later of: (1) thirty days after the Administrator served or mailed the notice to the creditor as provided under RCW 11.40.020(1)(c); or (2) four months after the date of first publication of the notice. If the claim is not presented within this time frame, the claim is forever barred, except as otherwise provided in RCW 11.40.051 AND 11.40.060. This bar is effective as to claims against both the decedent’s probate and nonprobate assets. Date of Filing of Notice to Creditors: April 14, 2021 with Clerk of Court: Date of First Publication: April 15, 2021 Name of Administrator: JOSEPH EDWARD LEIGHTON Attorney for Administrators: Steven D. Avery, WSBA #35262 Address for Mailing or Service: Avery Elder Law, P.S. 801 Samish Way, Ste. 202 Bellingham WA 98229 Telephone: (360) 325-2550 Email: steve@averyelderlaw.com DATED: April 15, 2021 AVERY ELDER LAW, P.S. STEVEN D. AVERY, WSBA #35262 Attorney for Administrator JOSEPH EDWARD LEIGHTON

IN THE SUPERIOR COURT OF THE STATE OF WASHINGTON IN AND FOR THE COUNTY OF Whatcom In Re the Estate of John Ernest Norling, Deceased. NO. 21-4-00280-37. NONPROBATE NOTICE TO CREDITORS (RCW 11.42.030) JUDGE: David E. Freeman The notice agent named below has elected to give notice to creditors of the abovenamed decedent. As of the date of the filing of a copy of this notice with the court, the notice agent has no knowledge of any other person acting as notice agent or of the appointment of a personal representative of the decedent’s estate in the state of Washington. According to the records of the court as are available on the date of the filing of this notice with the court, a cause number regarding the decedent has not been issued to any other notice agent, and a personal representative of the decedent’s estate has not been appointed. Any person having a claim against the decedent must, before the time the claim would be barred by any otherwise applicable statute of limitations, present the claim in the manner as provided in RCW 11.42.070 by serving on or mailing to the notice agent or the notice agent’s attorney at the address stated below a copy of the claim and filing the original of the claim with the court in which the notice agent’s declaration and oath were filed. The claim must be presented within the later of: (1) Thirty days after the notice agent served or mailed the notice to the creditor as provided under RCW 11.42.020(2)(c); or (2) Four months after the date of first publication of the notice. If the claim is not presented within this time frame, the claim is forever barred, except as otherwise provided in RCW 11.42.050 and 11.42.060. This bar is effective as to claims against both the decedent’s probate and nonprobate assets. Date of First Publication: April 15, 2021 The notice agent declares under penalty of perjury under the laws of the state of Washington on April 7, 2021, at Bellingham, Washington, that the foregoing is true and correct. Notice Agent: Ronnie Truitt PO Box 28397, Bellingham, WA 98229 Attorney for notice agent: Katti Esp 301 Prospect Street Bellingham, WA 98225 Address for Mailing or Service: Katti Esp 301 Prospect Street Bellingham, WA 98225 Court of notice agent’s Declaration and Oath: Superior Court of Whatcom County Cause Number: 21-4-00280-37

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CITY OF BLAINE MAINTENANCE WORKER

SUMMER SEASONAL – Temporary • $18 per hour – No Benefits Applications are being accepted for multiple seasonal maintenance workers with the City’s Public Works Department. This is a temporary position that will last up to four months. For a full job description, please visit the City of Blaine website. Interested persons should complete the online application on the City’s website, https://www.ci.blaine.wa.us/. Application deadline is 4:30pm on May 14, 2021. The position is open until filled. The City of Blaine is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

Real Estate

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

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8112 Birch Bay Dr #3 8159 Comox Rd 5550 Salish Road 8171 Comox Road 8370 Harborview Road #11 8556 Harborview Rd MLS #1757742 $799,500 MLS #1745121 $395,000 MLS #1735916 $570,000 MLS #1752083 $259,900 MLS #1725056 $465,000 MLS #1759884 $650,000

Located in popular gated community of Birch Bay Village! Expansive open floor plan with vaulted ceilings, lots of natural light, views of Mt. Baker, room to garden! Recently updated kitchen flows into dining area & family room & onto large 450+ sq ft deck. Commanding mountain views! Main level has 3 bedrooms includes spacious master suite that features en-suite bath & walk-in closet. Downstairs has huge great room, bedroom, 3/4 bath, great MIL Suite potential! Nicely updated, huge 725 SF garage!

Ben Tucker 360-393-5726

Stand alone waterfront cottage along brand new promenade! 2 bedroom, one bathroom cottage has a large loft, along with outdoor swimming pool, laundromat, and private beach. Enjoy all that Birch Bay has to offer; stunning views from your deck, crab feeds, beachcombing, evening strolls along the newly completed 1+ mile waterfront walkway. July 4th is an extravaganza, all this only 1.5hr North of Seattle, 20 min to Bellingham and minutes to the Canadian Border.

Gerry Allen 360-920-0563 or Matt Berry 360-389-0104

Built in 2005, but looks just completed. 3258 sq ft mostly turn-key. 3 bed, 2 full baths, dining room, great room, family room, sauna, granite counter tops throughout, Cedar siding, composition room, covered patio & deck, 5 zone in-floor radiant heat including 3-car garage. Kitchen: maple cabinets, slate backsplash, granite counter tops, ss appliances. Main level: Great room, kitchen, dining room, 2 guest beds, 1 full guest bath, deck. Garden Level: family room, master bed with en-suite. All Birch Bay amenities.

Brian Southwick 360-815-6638

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Fully upgraded home on large landscaped lot in Birch Bay Village. Open concept, large windows & sloped ceiling. Kitchen has granite countertops & ss appliances. 4 spacious bedrooms, 2 have removable closet organizers. Boasts new paint, Pergo flooring, new furnace/AC & water heater. Sizable shed in back for extra storage. Sundeck’s views of Mount Baker, Twin Sisters, & Birch Bay! Located in iconic Birch Bay Village; gated community with 24/7 security, golf course, tennis, Marina, Clubhouse and Swimming Pool.

Ryan Perrin 360-319-3900

Modern remodeled cottage in 55+ community of Birch Bay Retirement Inc. Purchase includes home & 1/18th share in Birch Bay Retirement Inc., an 18-home development with common areas including RV parking. May be least expensive place in Birch Bay on monthly basis. Monthly dues of $120/ month, include all expenses. Great location with perfect sun exposure & enjoy benefits of remodeled property creating Beach Cottage & outbuilding. Transformed property including too many upgrades to mention.

Brian Southwick 360-815-6638

Walking distance to Birch Bay beaches! Beautifully upgraded 1920’s farmhouse features 2 beds/1.75 baths, updated foundation, electrical + plumbing. Almost 4 acre parcel with small orchard, vineyard, fruit trees, fire pit, hot tub + built in barbecue. Historic barn area with shop & office plus lots of storage, RV or covered parking and/ or to create dream hobby farm. Mountain & bay views & minutes to easy I-5, Blaine & US/CAN border access. ** BONUS: High speed Xfinity Comcast available here! **

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Peace Portal Drive 217 11th Street MLS #1601561 $498,000 $335,000 MLS #1754661

The location says it all. High visibility corner between Peace Portal Dr and Interstate 5 plus only minutes from the Canadian border. The sale includes two properties totaling just over 2 acres. The property has water, sewer and power available off street making for ease of hookup and development. Zoning is highway commercial, light industrial allowing for almost unlimited use. Buyer to verify zoning and land use with Blaine Planning & Development.

Matt Berry 360-389-0104 & Gerry Allen 360-920-0563

Mid-century charmer! Massive 15K+ sq ft lot, unlimited potential, 4 bed/1.75 bath. Almost 2,900 sq ft, recent upgrades: new ss appliances & addition of natural gas furnace. Livable as is or continue updating & customize to exact taste. Primary living + cozy wood burning fireplace on main level + additional bed, bath, bonus spaces down. Rare to find this much property walking distance to schools, booming downtown Blaine, waterfront, & border. 2 car-garage + additional RV parking. City & water views!

Jen Freeman 360-815-0803

9540 Semiahmoo Pkwy #D10 $67,500 MLS #1757759

Welcome to Semiahmoo Marina! D10 is a 44 foot slip with one of the best locations for moorage that the marina has to offer. Easy access and close to the main dock. Breathtaking views of the bay, mountains, and White Rock. Marina amenities include fuel dock, restaurant, gift shop, laundry, and more. Golf, tennis, and swimming nearby at Semiahmoo Golf Course. Once you arrive, you won’t want to leave!

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9045 Shearwater Road 9535 Semihamoo Pkwy #B103 9146 Turnstone Lane #25 MLS #1747981 MLS #1752518 $929,000 MLS #1758709 $1,300,000 $2,200,000

Waterfront & unobstructed island views of Semiahmoo Bay. Exquisite high-design architecture & creativity capture premier PNW waterfront location. Site complements interior beauty of quality, craftsman built home. Custom features & artistic detail. Chefs dream kitchen opens to breakfast bar & family room. Built in corner office! Comfortable home offers casual elegance. Ideal main floor living, expansive deck & private guest quarters. Meticulously landscaped to offer low maintenance & year round color.

Kathy Stauffer 360-815-4718

No bank waterfront single level condominium showcases beauty of Semiahmoo Bay & PNW sunsets. Great room & chefs kitchen opens to covered patio (not included in the square footage). Top of line finishes & interior--move in ready, all furnishings are left. Lots of storage--2 interior garage parking spaces--locked 10X10 storage unit. Semiahmoo Sandspit, ideal spot. Cool breeze off water & majestic beauty of Canadian coastal range. Well managed association--solid reserves makes for an easy purchase.

Kathy Stauffer 360-815-4718

Rare opportunity in coveted Semiahmoo Shore development. Exceptional quality, rarely used, immaculately maintained, under floor heating, vaulted ceilings, numerous smart home features, saltwater views. Relax by elegant fireplace or expanded patio with views of Drayton Harbor & Mt Baker. Beaches on both sides. Walkable location with parks, paths, restaurants, Semiahmoo Resort & Marina. Minutes from Birch Bay, Blaine, Bellingham, & 2 hours to Seattle.

Matt Berry 360-389-0104 & Gerry Allen 360-920-0563

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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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April 29 - May 5, 2021 • thenorthernlight.com

Local restaurants can continue serving takeout drinks into 2023

generate revenue while the governor’s ban on in-person dining was still in effect. When the law was first passed, The Northern Light asked local restaurant owners about how the to-go sales could help them stay afloat amidst an economically devastating pandemic. Now, nearly a year later, those same restaurant owners say the ruling has granted them some much-needed options and relief, and some are asking for the law to stay permanent. Miguel Ramos, owner of Paso

Del Norte, said his sales jumped immediately once the state allowed for pre-mixed cocktails to be served curbside. When they began advertisement for margarita kits, Ramos says his sales doubled. “We started advertising,” Ramos said. “And for one week we’re doing, like $4,000 a week. Next week, we’re doing $10,000.” That jump in sales is exactly why the liquor and cannabis board decided to temporarily relax restrictions for curbside alcohol sales. HB 1480 stated that the bill was created to help the state hospitality industry that has “suffered some of the most devastating impacts of any sector of the state’s economy.” For Joni Finston, co-owner of The Vault Wine Bar & Bistro in Blaine, having the flexibility of in-person dining and to-go sales has been a game-changer. “[To-go alcohol sales] increases our footprint,” Finston said. “If we’re at 25, 50 percent capacity, we’re limited. So to have an evening where we have even 10 orders to go helps tremendously.” But others in the industry, like

tions,” Personius said. Rainbow Medicine-Walker, who spoke at both public hearings, said they represented people in the Kendall area who supported the moratorium. Medicine-Walker again expressed concern of large industrial-scale growing operations moving into the county without the moratorium in place. “Seems to me we should be able to figure out how to create codes that protect the quality of life in our established communities,” Medicine-Walker said, “and are also protective of existing small-scale, self-regulating cannabis operations who control

their odor and light pollution.” Mark Ambler, who runs a cannabis farm in Bellingham and also spoke at both public hearings, pointed out issues with current county code not previously addressed, such as a code for the growing of mature male cannabis plants. He advised county council to consider working on the code revisions without the moratorium. “We should continue this process, in an open public manner like this with all the stakeholders, but without the moratorium,” he said. “Because it’s bringing everyone together under a conflict.”

s A rose and lemonade to-go cocktail kit from The Vault Wine Bar & Bistro. Courtesy photo

By Nolan Baker Governor Jay Inslee signed House Bill 1480 into law April 14, allowing bars, breweries, wineries and restaurants with liquor licenses an extension to the curbside and to-go sale of premixed cocktails, beer, wine and other alcohol products until July 1, 2023. The bill passed the State House on February 25 by a wide 86-12 margin, and passed the Senate by an even wider 46-3 vote. The original bill was signed in May 2020 as a way to help restaurants

Cannabis ... From page 1

allow for fixed, enclosed greenhouse operations with filtration systems. He said this is a possibility the department will review. The planning department will also look at existing venting and filtration technology that could be included in county code as a requirement for cannabis farms, he said. The department would present county council with possibilities for suggestions and approval. “There’s a lot of different op-

Bob’s Burgers and Brew Birch Bay general manager Cody Bowden, said that once in-person dining was allowed again, demand for to-go alcohol began to die down. “I think if we stayed closed, our to-go revenue would probably spike again for alcohol,” Bowden said. “Right now, I wouldn’t say it’s a major contributor to our togo sales.” This continued relaxation of alcohol guidelines has led some restaurant owners to wonder if these changes can be permanent. “People are going to be starting

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The Northern Light • April 29 - May 5, 2021

Coming up

Sheriff’s Reports April 17, 6:09 a.m.: Extra patrol on Surf Place. April 17, 1:39 p.m.: Suspicious vehicle on Loomis Trail Road and Portal Way. April 17, 2:24 p.m.: Security check on Koehn Road. April 17, 2:47 p.m.: Neighborhood dispute on Harborview Road. April 17, 3:20 p.m.: Mental on Birch Bay-Lynden Road. April 17, 11:07 p.m.: Party on Helweg Road. April 18, 3:39 a.m.: Trespass on Clamdigger Drive. April 18, 8:24 a.m.: Burglary on Birch Bay Drive. April 18, 12:45 p.m.: Music on Harborview Road. April 18, 1:13 p.m.: Hot rod on Pipeline Road and Dead End. April 18, 4:05 p.m.: Domestic verbal on Legion Drive and Blaine Road. April 18, 4:25 p.m.: Music on Moonglow Court. April 19, 2:50 a.m.: Suicidal subject on Blaine Road. April 19, 5:33 a.m.: Noise on Moonlight Way. April 19, 10:37 p.m.: Suspicious vehicle on Birch Bay-Square Street. April 20, 12:46 p.m.: Mental on Birch Bay-Lynden Road. April 21, 8:32 a.m.: Death inves-

tigation on Chehalis Road. April 21, 12:32 p.m.: Suspicious circumstances on Alderson Road. April 22, 8:14 a.m.: Vehicle abandoned on Henry Road. April 22, 9:53 a.m.: Missing person on Boblett Road. April 22, 10:37 a.m.: Sex crime – no rape – on California Trail.

April 23, 8:29 a.m.: Forgery on Chinook Way. April 23, 1:19 p.m.: Sex crime – no rape – on Valley View Road, Custer. April 23, 4:07 p.m.: Juvenile problem on Normar Place. April 24, 2:31 a.m.: Domestic physical on Maple Crest Avenue.

April 19, 8:10 a.m.: Suspended driver arrest on 2nd Street. April 20, 8:16 a.m.: Traffic stop arrest on Yew Avenue. April 20, 10 a.m.: Alleged sexual assault – no rape – from five years ago on H Street April 20, 1:33 p.m.: Suspicious circumstance on 4th Street. April 20, 4:46 p.m.: Warrant arrest on H Street. April 20, 9:51 p.m.: Suspended driver arrest on Peace Portal Drive. April 21, 10:18 a.m.: Welfare check for truant student on Bayview Court. April 21, 12:26 p.m.: Person trespassed on Harrison Avenue. April 21, 3:25 p.m.: Death investigation on Clyde Street. April 22, 9:50 p.m.: Welfare check on 8th Street. Report by Blaine Police Department.

Crossword ACROSS 1. Prevents harm to young 5. “Losing My Religion” rockers 8. Partner to pan 11. Cavalry unit 13. Peyton’s little brother 14. Mexican dish 15. Disseminates info to the public 16. Set an animal on 17. Canadian flyers 18. Elongated mouths of anthropods 20. I (German) 21. Opposite of west 22. Glows 25. Measures how quickly a car moves 30. One who has gained wealth 31. Patti Hearst’s captors 32. Extensive landed property 33. Male aristocrat 38. For each 41. More fidgety 43. Very happy 45. A place to store info 47. Helps to heal 49. 12th month (abbr.) 50. Broad, shallow

craters 55. Nocturnal S. American rodent 56. Frost 57. Ethiopian town 59. Curved shapes 60. Company that rings receipts 61. Spiritual leader 62. Sheep native to Sweden 63. Cars need it 64. Partner to relaxation DOWN 1. Scientist’s high-resolution tool (abbr.) 2. Type of school 3. Formal close (music) 4. Transmits high voltage 5. A way to occupy a certain area 6. Draws out 7. His Airness 8. Nocturnal rodents 9. South American plants 10. Homestead 12. Bland or semiliquid food 14. Forest resident 19. The body needs it 23. Atomic mass unit

(abbr.) 24. Spell 25. Relaxing place 26. Political fundraising tool 27. Make a mistake 28. Partner to Adam 29. Tyrant 34. Unit of electrical resistance 35. A history of one’s life 36. Actor DiCaprio 37. Sea eagle 39. Avoiding being caught 40. __ de Mornay, actress 41. Belonging to a thing 42. Not us 44. Motorcars 45. Capital of Bangladesh 46. Ancient Greek sophist 47. Practice boxing 48. __ Grant, actor 51. Swiss river 52. S. Sudan river 53. A bumpkin 54. One point south of southwest 58. Small island (British)

April 30 – May 6 at Blaine. Not for navigation. 49° 0’ 0”N - 122° 46’ 0”W TIME

HEIGHT

Fr 30 2:36 am 6.4

HEIGHT

7:12 am 8.9

7:50 am 8.4

3:33 pm -1.9 11:31 pm 9.9

Su 2 5:00 am 7.0

TIME

2:41 pm -2.4 10:27 pm 10.1

Sa 1 3:42 am 6.9

8:34 am 7.7

4:29 pm -1.2

Mo 3 12:37 am 9.7

6:38 am 6.6

9:36 am 6.9

5:29 pm -0.3

Tu 4 1:35 am 9.5

8:16 am 5.8

11:10 am 6.1

6:31 pm 0.6

We 5 2:23 am 9.3

9:10 am 4.8

1:02 pm 5.8

7:35 pm 1.5

Th 6 3:03 am 9.2

9:50 am 3.7

8:37 pm 2.4

2:46 pm 5.9

Terrell Creek Micro Work Party: Saturday, May 1, 9–11 a.m. Help remove invasive Himalayan blackberry from the banks of Terrell Creek in Birch Bay State Park. Must register in advance at: bit.ly/3ubo1a4.

Conservation Conversations: Thursday, May 6, 5:30–6:30 p.m. Join the Whatcom Land Trust for a series of virtual intimate conversations including the work at California creek as well as the new land protections in the area. Free. Registration required at bit.ly/3u0wDAm. Birch Bay-Blaine Community Conversations: Thursday, May 6, 6:30 p.m. Topic: The Basics of Families Need to Thrive. School nurse, Jodie Greene, Communities in Schools site coordinator, Britt Rhodes and family service center coordinator Julie Butschli lead a virtual discussion about the unique challenges families are facing, the creative ways they are managing and how these women are helping families thrive. For info, email geof. morgan@communityresilienceresearch.com. Trivia at The Vault: Thursday, May 6, 7 p.m., The Vault Wine Bar and Bistro, 277 G Street. This week’s theme: The ‘90s. Info: thevaultwine.com. Children’s Art Walk: Friday, May 7, 5–8 p.m., Whatcom Museum Lightcatcher building, 250 Flora Street, Bellingham. View artwork from local elementary school students in the windows of the Family Interactive Gallery and the Lightcatcher building. Info: whatcommuseum.org. Live Music at The Vault: Friday, May 7, 7 p.m., The Vault Wine Bar and Bistro, 277 G Street. Featuring: The Alex Kelsh Duo. Info: thevaultwine.com. Mother’s Day Bake Sale and Pop Up Market: Saturday, May 8, noon–4 p.m., Home Farm UPick and Events, 8020 Kickerville Road. Mother’s Day shopping, baked goods, fresh flower bouquets, espresso. Info: homefarm. farm. Cross Country Golf Scramble: Saturday, May 8, 2:30 p.m. shotgun start, Looms Trail Golf, 4342 Loomis Trail. Four-person scramble with mixed and matched tees and greens or an entirely new layout for 18 holes. $75 for public, $35 for annual pass holders. Info: 360/332-1725. Haynie Opry Presents A Tribute to Charlie Pride: Saturday, May 8, 7 p.m., Haynie Grange, 3344 Haynie Road, Custer. Join Matt Audette and the Circle of Friends band for a tribute to Charlie Pride. Gospel matinee at 3 p.m. Tickets $5 for matinee, $10 evening show at the door. Info: 360/366-3321.

Tides DATE

Conservation Conversations: Thursday, April 29, 1–2 p.m. Join the Whatcom Land Trust for a series of virtual intimate conversations including the work at California creek as well as the new land protections in the area. Free. Registration required at bit.ly/3u0wDAm.

Blessing of the Fleet: Sunday, May 2, 1:30 p.m., Blaine Harbor, outside gate 2. Rain or shine. Please wear a mask and socially distance.

Police Reports April 17, 1:24 p.m.: Parking problem on B Street. April 17, 6:26 p.m.: Second degree domestic violence assault arrest on Evans Drive. April 17, 11:09 a.m.: Misdemeanor assault on Ludwick Avenue. April 17, 1 p.m.: Assist citizen on Blaine Avenue. April 18, 6 a.m.: Vandalism on 3rd Street. April 18, 8 a.m.: Identity theft investigation on E Street. April 18, 11:43 a.m.: Suspicious circumstance on Semiahmoo Parkway. April 18, 7:58 p.m.: Verbal trespass on H Street. April 18, 11 p.m.: Suspicious circumstances on Martin Street. April 19, 10:01 a.m.: Tagging with profanity on H Street. April 19, 1:14 p.m.: Traffic stop on Peace Portal Drive.

Please wear masks and follow social distancing guidelines.

ANSWERS: THENORTHERNLIGHT.COM

Winemaker’s Dinner: Sunday, May 16, 5–8 p.m., The Vault Wine Bar and Bistro, 277 G Street. Pairing five Walla Walla Vintners wines with a special menu. $85 per person. Limited seating. Reservations call 360-392-0955. Friends of Birch Bay Library Family Trivia Night: Saturday, May 22, 5:30p.m. Virtual eerie trivia cut from books, theater and the small screen. Door prizes for best costume and terrifying team name. Cost: $25. Register at wcls.libcal.com/event/7716894. Fundraiser for the Birch Bay Library building project. 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. Blaine’s Market by the Sea: Saturdays, 10 a.m.–3 p.m., G Street Plaza. Featuring high quality arts and crafts vendors selling handcrafted merchandise. Info: info@blainechamber.com. Birch Bay Chamber of Commerce Virtual Meetings: Third Thursdays, 1 p.m. Meeting ID on birchbaychamber.com. Blaine Chamber of Commerce Virtual Meetings: First Wednesday, noon. Meeting ID on blainechamber.com.

Weather

Precipitation: During the period of April 19 to 25, 0.5 inches of precipitation was recorded. The 2021 yearto-date precipitation is 11.7 inches. Temperature: High for the past week was 79°F on April 19 with a low of 41°F on April 25. Average high was 64°F and average low was 50°F. Courtesy Birch Bay Water & Sewer Dist.

Blaine Library: 610 3rd Street. Open to in-branch visits, Monday–Saturday, 10 a.m.–5 p.m. 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. Blaine Friends of the Library Bookstore is now open during in-branch open hours. Also, some of their inventory is now available on the online Friends of the Library Bookstore at wcls.org/friendsbooks. Meals on Wheels: Thursdays 11:30 a.m.–12 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. Movie Nights: Fridays, 8:15 p.m., Birch Bay Activity Center, 7511 Gemini Street. Playing family friendly movies. Bring a blanket or lawn chair and watch the movie on the big screen. Free popcorn. Masks and social distancing required. Info: bbbparkandrec.org. Submissions to Coming Up should be sent to calendar@thenorthernlight.com no later than noon on Monday.

April 29 - May 5, 2021 • thenorthernlight.com

14-year-old Blaine gymnast places at USA gymnastics regionals

s Sam Toepper, a 14-year-old Blaine resident, competing at the USA Gymnastics regional championships held April 16-18. In Level 7, Toepper placed eighth overall and fifth for her floor routine. Courtesy photo

By Grace McCarthy After years of dedication to the sport and overcoming multiple injuries, 14-year-old Blaine resident Sam Toepper competed at the USA Gymnastics regional championships in Montana. “It felt like a really great accomplishment,” Sam said. “It was almost like a relief because it was always a dream of mine to make regionals after getting over all of these injuries.” Sam and Bella Burns, a 14-yearold Ferndale resident, were the two gymnasts from Gym Star Sports Center in Ferndale to

Letters ... From page 4

The Editor: On December 22, 2020, a BNSF train derailed and caught fire here in Whatcom County. Oil, 30,000 gallons of Bakken Crude Oil, spilled. Between 5,000 and 8,000 gallons of that crude oil either burned or escaped into the ground. Terrible. Yet, a lucky outcome considering much worse could have occurred. It is certainly interesting that we still don’t know why the train derailed. We don’t know why, at low speed, the railcars ruptured, leaked and burned. Rumors it was eco-terrorism were quick, and a convenient deflection. Locals, however, observed possibly defective tracks at a nearby crossing. In four months, we’ve heard nothing. Not from BNSF, not from local government, not from local law enforcement and not from state or federal regulators. You’d think this would be a front-and-center concern. After all, similar derailments have resulted in deaths, much larger damage … We deserve answers: Was the Bakken oil properly contained in department of transportation appropriate rail cars? Were they properly insured? Was the accident human error, poor track maintenance, or both? Is the delay communicating the investigation result intentional, in the hope things would blow over? Who did the investigation: National Transportation Safety

compete at the championships in Helena, Montana, April 16-18. It was both of their first times at regionals, Sam said. The pair competed as Level 7 gymnasts (most athletes compete from levels 3-10 with 7 being considered elite advanced). For Level 7, Sam placed eighth in the competition with a score of 36.40 and tied fifth for her floor routine with a score of 9.6. Burns placed seventh in the competition with a score of 36.60 and finished as the regional vault champion with a score of 9.225. “Regionals is the Super Bowl of gymnastics,” said Sam’s father Board, Washington State Department of Transportation, or did BNSF just investigate itself? Do we really want oil and coal passing right through our city centers and across our farms, especially when BNSF’s track (pun intended) record is so poor? BNSF sure has done a lot of recent maintenance along the tracks and at crossings in north county. Is that just coincidence? When will we know what happened? Han Nachtrieb Birch Bay The Editor: Are you looking for a new pet to share your home? Would you rather not walk your pet several times daily (although walks are certainly good things)? Would you rather your new pet not lie on your book, or computer keyboard, or knock all the breakable items off your table (although that is sometimes charming)? Would you like a pet that greets you extremely enthusiastically whenever you enter the room or open the refrigerator door? A pet that can eat some of the same foods (spring salad mix, anyone?) that you do? A pet that comes with a built-in friend? May I suggest that you consider Guinea pigs? They are very interactive with their people, their waste is not very onerous to clean up, they usually need to live with at least one other Guinea pig to be happy (there’s the built-in friend) and they are seriously adorable little beings. I have adopted three from Whatcom Humane Society and they make me laugh every day. There are currently many sweet,

Trent Toepper. “Only the best keep going at state to regionals.” To qualify for regionals, gymnasts from Washington had to score a 36 or above at the state championships in Tacoma in March. The regional championships included gymnasts from Washington, Oregon, Montana, Idaho, Hawaii and Alaska. Sam’s parents signed her up for gymnastics classes when she was a 3-year-old needing to run off energy. Now, she practices about 20 hours per week in the gym. “As soon as she learned to do a cartwheel, I don’t think she could walk a step without doing another one,” Trent said. Trent said his daughter couldn’t compete at state for three years in a row because of multiple injuries, including a spiral fracture on her left ankle that required screws and breaking both elbows, which needed the attention of a specialist in Seattle. Once Sam was ready to compete last year, Covid-19 canceled state and regionals. “I was nervous but I pushed through it,” Sam said of competing at regionals. “I feel really good about the outcome.” Sam and Burns will now advance to training for Level 8 competitions next spring. The pair will also attend a gymnastics camp designed by USA Olympian Aly Raisman in California this cute, needy Guinea pigs at Whatcom Humane Society that would love to live in your home and make you laugh too. The adoption coordinator will help you to find the perfect pig(s) for your home, and make sure that you know how to care for them. Won’t you stop in and check them out? Jennifer Plombon Blaine

summer. The last time the gym attended regionals was five years ago, a Gym Star Sports Center coach said. “We are incredibly proud of our athletes and their ability to

overcome the difficulties of this last year,” Gym Star Sports Center owner Carolyn Saletto said in a news release. “It is a testament to their determination and dedication to the sport that they both love so much.”

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The Northern Light • April 29 - May 5, 2021

Donovan’s art back on display in the Semiahmoo Marina Café By Sienna Boucher As the Semiahmoo Marina café reopens, the whimsical display of art from Blaine resident Georgia Donovan will once again be available for the public to enjoy. One of the paintings on display in the café depicts a man wrangling a salmon rodeo-style. “I knew I wanted to paint a salmon and I thought to myself, ‘What do you have to do? Round up the salmon.’ So this painting became Salmon Roundup,” Donovan said with a laugh. This is just one of many paintings Donovan has done that are inspired by play on words. “I usually think of a title before I know what I’m going to paint,” she said, explaining that she likes to keep things lighthearted. Donovan got her start in painting doing animal portrait commissions. Now, after creating a career from painting, she still continues to paint many animals, one of her favorites being the crow. “I like crows. Most people either love them or hate them, but they have funny attitudes and personalities and they’re smart. I use that as a vehicle for many of my paintings,” she said. A painting titled Cocktails at the Crowbar depicts crows having a cocktail party is one of Donovan’s best-selling works of art. Prints of it are also for sale at the café. Another one of Donovan’s crow

paintings shows crows line dancing. “I knew I wanted to do a painting that involved line dancing,” she said. “I thought people line dancing might be a bit boring. So I decided, ‘What’s more interesting than people line dancing? Crows line dancing.’” Donovan also has a series of paintings called Cannery Girls inspired by historical photos of women working at Alaska Packers Association’s Semiahmoo salmon cannery. While representing history, Donovan said she strives to make the paintings humorous. The first painting in the Cannery Girls collection depicts four women in a rowboat dressed up and heading to a dance after work. In their laps is a giant salmon, which Donovan said represents them saying goodbye to their work for the day. While Donovan now spends her time playfully depicting animals and history, one thing she expressed as being important to her is reinventing oneself. “I was counseled away from becoming an artist,” she said. “This was in the ‘60s, but I was told if I want to get anywhere, I should become a nurse or a teacher. So, that’s what I did and I became an elementary teacher and then I got my master’s degree and became a family therapist.” Due to Donovan’s husband’s career, they were often having to move. Each time they moved, Donovan said she learned to re-

s Georgia Donovan in front of her paintings displayed at the Semiahmoo Marina Cafe. invent herself again. When they moved to Canada, Donovan was unable to teach, however, she looked for ways that she could still help with the education system. She decided to help out with AIDS education, knowing it would be something that would be needed in the future. “Seeing the need and seeing how you can mold your skills to that need is so important,” she

said. This mindset is what led Donovan to start selling jewelry at Butchart Gardens on Vancouver Island in 1995. Donovan said she still focuses on continual growth, crediting it as something that helps her as an artist today. “The jewelry was a fit in the garden. Over here, it’s the cannery girls, the crows and things with

Photo by Sienna Boucher

the Semiahmoo water tower,” she said. “First, I please myself when it comes to painting, but it is also important to see what is needed.” Donovan plans to complete a new beach-themed painting soon and has been matting prints of her most recent paintings for the café. Georgia Donovan’s paintings can also be viewed and purchased at bit.ly/3eJxUWm.

The Northern Light: April 29-May 5, 2021

Articles inside

Letters