The Northern Light: May 6-12, 2021 by Point Roberts Press

May 6 - 12, 2021

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IN THIS

ISSUE

Volunteers needed for berm task force, page 3

Vaccine demand decreases, page 6

Man shot in foot during drive-by, page 16

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

Blessing of the Fleet honors those lost at sea

See pages 8 and 9

U.S. lawmakers call on help for Blaine company By Grace McCarthy

(See Chains, page 2)

s U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary member Gary Farrow lays the wreath at the Blessing of the Fleet ceremony on May 2. The annual ceremony resumed this year to pay tribute to fishermen who have died at sea, including 23 fishermen since the 2019 blessing. See more photos from the ceremony on page 10. Photo by Richard Sturgill

Drayton Harbor no shooting zone reintroduced in Whatcom County Council By Grace McCarthy Whatcom County Council voted 4-2 to reintroduce a proposed ordinance that would establish a no shooting zone in Drayton Harbor. The council also voted 4-2 to introduce a no shooting zone in the Dearborn area, near Drayton Harbor and Dakota Creek. Councilmembers Ben Elenbaas and Kathy Kershner were in opposition. Although initially introduced to county council in 2019 after urging from the city of Blaine, the process to create a no shoot-

ing zone slowed during the county’s outreach effort, and then Covid-19 hit. Blaine city manager Michael Jones said governor Jay Inslee mandated last March that local governments only conduct necessary and essential work pertaining to the pandemic. Once county council was able to take action again, Jones asked the county in February to continue where it left off. But since the ordinance was dormant for an extended period, it needed to be reintroduced. County council first discussed reintroducing the proposed Drayton Harbor ordi-

Birch Bay library volunteers needed by May 14 By Grace McCarthy The Whatcom County Library System (WCLS) is looking for volunteers to serve on committees for and against a ballot measure that would increase property taxes to support the Birch Bay Vogt Community Library. Those interested need to contact WCLS by Friday, May 14. If passed in the November 2021 election, the Birch Bay Library Capital Facility Area (LCFA) ballot measure would in-

crease Birch Bay property taxes by about 13 cents per $1,000 of assessed value. For the average homeowner, this would mean paying about $3.93 per month to build the library (the Whatcom County Tax Assessor’s Office estimates median home values to be $350,000). Committee volunteers will prepare statements for the voters’ pamphlet either supporting the measure or rejecting it. No more than three members will serve on each committee.

Friends of the Birch Bay Library (FOBBL), a grassroots group, helped secure a $2-million state appropriation in 2019 to reduce the cost of the estimated $6.5 million library. The appropriation depends on the community fundraising the remaining $4.35 million and was set to expire June 30, but FOBBL was able to get an extension into the state’s 2023 two-year budget, Perkins said. (See Library, page 3)

nance during the March 9 council meeting, when the separate no shooting ordinance for the Dearborn area was proposed. Both areas are known for waterfowl hunting. “We would request that the [county] council take this matter back up and establish a no-shooting zone over the unincorporated portions of the harbor,” Jones told county councilmembers during the March 9 county council meeting. Jones said the city’s stance remains the (See Drayton, page 9)

INSIDE

U.S. lawmakers are calling on Congress to close loopholes that, if ignored, could lead to job losses for a Blaine manufacturer. Lister Chain and Forge, at 3810 Loomis Trail Road, is the only domestic producer of anchor chains, according to a bipartisan letter 13 lawmakers wrote April 29. The letter, spearheaded by U.S. representative Suzan DelBene (WA-01) and signed by Rick Larsen (WA-02), asked Congress to change the language in the 2022 Defense Appropriations bill to close two loopholes that would allow the Department of Defense to outsource its anchor chains to foreign companies. Lister Chain and Forge provides anchor chains to the majority of the U.S. Navy and Coast Guard’s ships, according to the manufacturer’s website, but lawmakers say the Navy is trying to cut costs by outsourcing 4.02-inch chains for the remaining ships in a new class of over 20 fleet oilers. Current law requires the Department of Defense to purchase anchor chains in the U.S. if the chain’s diameter is 4 inches or lower. The previous contract manufactured 3-and5/8-inch chains. The second loophole, lawmakers argue, is the word “shipboard.” The Department of Defense is required to purchase domestic shipboard anchor chains, but since the chains are not used aboard the vessels, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers argues the

Coming Up . . . . . 14 Classifieds . . . . . 11 Letters . . . . . . . . . 4 Police . . . . . . . . . 14 Sports . . . . . . . . . 15 Tides . . . . . . . . . . 14

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The Northern Light • May 6 - 12, 2021 savings would only amount to .001 of the cost for the remaining new ships. The two phrases that lawmakers now say are being used as loopholes were first included in the 1991 Department of Defense Appropriations Act. Less than a week in office, President Joe

Chains ...

From page 1 anchor chains do not apply to this rule. DelBene’s letter states this change will outsource more than 3,000 tons of steel, but the cost

Biden issued an executive order strongly encouraging federal government spending on American-made products. Lister Chain and Forge president Mike Stobbart said this could affect jobs of the company’s 36 employees, many of whom live in Blaine. The 110-year-old

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company has operated in Blaine since 1988, the same year it began producing anchor chains for the Department of Defense. Stobbart said Blaine is the only location for its operations. “We have always known of the size range limit, [but] this is the first time we have seen a design change to enable offshore purchase of a ship’s anchor chain,” Stobbart said. The company would be able to produce the anchor chains purchased outside of the U.S. with no change or investment required of the company, he added. Stobbart said he appreciates DelBene’s efforts to protect the U.S. owned and operated company. He declined to comment further. A spokesperson for DelBene’s office said these loopholes are part of a larger issue of the Department of Defense outsourcing contracts from American manufacturers overseas, and that the congresswoman has been working on this issue for years. Advocates for closing the loopholes are also concerned that affecting the only U.S. anchor

chain producer will weaken the country’s ability to defend itself during war. “Congress needs to strengthen our domestic defense production capabilities by ensuring the Department of Defense abides by domestic content requirements for anchor chain and other unique shipbuilding components that are critical to U.S. national security,” George Williams, CEO of the American Shipbuilding Suppliers Association, said in a statement. “With only one remaining domestic producer of these chains, this is testimony to what can happen to others in the industry if Congress does not act soon to prevent foreign outsourcing.” Both the American Shipbuilding Suppliers Association and Steel Manufacturers Association endorsed closing the loopholes. “This fix will protect the sole remaining U.S. supplier of anchor and mooring chain, bolster American domestic steel production and ensure that we are able to manufacture this mobilization-critical item right here in America,” DelBene said in the letter.

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s Lister Chain and Forge, at 3810 Loomis Trail Road, has provided product for the Department of Defense since 1988. Photo by Ian Haupt

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May 6 - 12, 2021 • thenorthernlight.com

s Proposed design for the Birch Bay Vogt Community Library. Image courtesy WCLS

Library ... From page 1

“We are really grateful,” Perkins said. “We appreciate that the state understands Covid put a monkey wrench in fundraising and this gives us more time to secure funding for the project.” The Birch Bay library would be the first in the county funded with a LCFA, Perkins said. Washington state law allows voters, through LCFAs, to create an independent tax authority to build library buildings. The LCFA would only exist for the term of the building project and the resolution of bonds or loans taken out to raise the funds,

WCLS executive director Christine Perkins. Over 60 percent of voters need to approve and over 40 percent of people who voted in the last general election need to vote, she said. The LCFA encompasses areas outside Semiahmoo, Point Whitehorn, Grandview Road, Jackson Road, Bay Road, Kickerville Road and Birch Bay-Lynden Road. The community in which the library resides provides the building, and WCLS provides the library operations and materials, Perkins said. “The shell of the building is provided by the community and then we budget for library material, technology and the ongoing cost of staff,” she said.

Whatcom County municipalities own most of the library buildings but unincorporated areas like Birch Bay need to fundraise on their own. FOBBL president Dianne Marrs-Smith said the group has raised over $203,000. According to WCLS, private donations will also lower the amount property owners would pay if the measure is passed. The library is named after the Vogt family, who lived at the 7968 Birch Bay Drive property that WCLS purchased in 2018, when WCLS began gathering public

input. According to WCLS, over 80 percent of respondents to a community survey supported a small tax increase to help build the library. WCLS has stressed that Birch Bay’s population is estimated to almost double to 13,000 people in the next two decades. Nearly 2,000 children in Birch Bay don’t have access to a library. About 5,000 Birch Bay residents are WCLS cardholders, Perkins said. “This is a unique opportunity to do something positive,” Per-

kins said. “In the past one and a half years, there’s been a lot of sadness and uncertainty. This is a way to build something for the future to benefit people of all ages in the community.” To serve on the committee, contact Ruth Nail at ruth.nail@ wcls.org or call 360/305-3641 by Friday, May 14. People interested in donating to the library can also visit wcls.org/give. FOBBL will host LCFA town hall meetings July 22 and October 2. Information will be available at friendsofbirchbaylibrary.org.

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s The Library Capital Facility Area boundaries go from outside Semiahmoo Parkway to Point Whitehorn, Jackson Road, Bay Road, Kickerville Road and Birch Bay-Lynden Road. View the map at wcls.org/ birch-bay. Image courtesy WCLS

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Birch Bay chamber seeking volunteers for berm task force By Ian Haupt The Birch Bay Chamber of Commerce is accepting applications from Birch Bay residents who want to volunteer on the Berm Task Force. The task force will provide recommendations to Whatcom County Council on what recreational activities should be allowed on the berm path. Because the mostly limestone gravel path was designed by Whatcom County Public Works as an interurban trail, county code must be established to distinguish what types of vehicles can use the path. Bicycles were the main concern brought up in a March 25 “Coffee with the Contractor” meeting. Public works’ Roland Middleton said in the meeting he had heard from over 30 residents who were split on the issue, with those wishing to ban bikes from the path taking a small majority. He said while bikes could be a disturbance to pedestrians on the path, many residents also don’t want their grandchildren riding in the road. Other non-motorized and motorized transportation, such as electric bikes, scooters and skateboards, were brought up in question. The task force would consider the pros and cons of each with advice and assistance from the Whatcom County Bicycle/Pedestrian Advisory Committee, Whatcom County Public Works, Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office and Whatcom County Council before making it county code. As it stands now, the path will be treated as a sidewalk until county code is written, Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office deputy Derek Jones said in the March 25

meeting. This means all non-motorized vehicles are allowed to use the path, with the exception of motorized wheelchairs that are allowed on the path. Any county code the task force wants to implement will have to be approved by council similarly to the golf cart ordinance in 2019, which required an 18-month interim ordinance before approval. Danielle Gaughen, Birch Bay Chamber of Commerce executive director, said the task force will

host public meetings for other community members to voice their opinions, and Middleton will help them draft an application for council. The task force will include chamber vice president Dave Brewin, chamber secretary Doralee Booth, Blaine-Birch Bay Park and Recreation District 2 director Ted Morris, deputy Jones and three other community members. To apply, visit bit.ly/3tkdVTc.

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The Northern Light • May 6 - 12, 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.

Birch Bay berm is getting great use this spring

Publisher & Managing Editor Patrick Grubb publisher@pointrobertspress.com Co-publisher & Advertising Director Louise Mugar lmugar@pointrobertspress.com

s Walkers, bikers and even strollers enjoy the recently finished Birch Bay berm on May 4. The recent warm and sunny spring days bring out residents hoping to enjoy the beautiful Birch Bay. Photo by Ian Haupt

Editor Grace McCarthy grace@pointrobertspress.com

Letters

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 The Northern Light 225 Marine Drive, Suite 200, Blaine, WA 98230 Tel: 360/332-1777 Vol XXVI, No 46 Circulation: 10,500 copies

Circulation Independently verified by:

Next issue: May 13 Ads due: May 7

The Editor: Washington state needs universal medical care. We must build a financial resource system to support care for all. Our insurance and tax structures are archaic and unfair. Right now the people at the middle and bottom of earners pay a much greater portion of their income on taxable necessities and medical insurance. (Medical insurance costs are everywhere, even built into auto insurance.) Post-pandemic medical costs will soar as long term chronic cardiac, cognitive, renal and pulmonary conditions have affected patients and “long haulers.” Many families now pay up to 20 percent or more of income for medical insurance and treatment. A state tax to cover universal care would mean savings and larger paychecks.

Industry spends millions each year as new insurance schedules alter offerings. Companies and institutions must re-evaluate their costs and invest in providing employees with alternative choices. A Washington state universal system would cover everyone and eliminate the millions paid to sustain “choice plans.” (Consumers could purchase extra options.) We could stop filling investor pockets, building huge office buildings, funding stockholders and huge CEO salaries. We could stop being dependent on total employer and employment funding. This would mean the freedom to choose your job and having protection while changing jobs: Savings and efficiency. Donna Starr Blaine

Student letters The following letters were submitted by Blaine Middle School students in Megan Schutt’s eighth grade social studies class. The students were assigned to write about freedom of speech, with the understanding that letters would be published in a local newspaper. More students’ letters will be published in the coming weeks. The Editor: You may have heard of Trump being banned from Twitter and Facebook after (See Letters, next page) Please send letters to letters@thenorthernlight.com no later than noon on Monday.

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.

May 6 - 12, 2021 • thenorthernlight.com

Letters ... From previous page

the riot on the U.S. Capitol. I’m here to tell you more and if it was a good or bad decision. On January 5 and 6, election protesters rioted on the Capitol with Trump’s encouragement on social media. My opinion on Trump being banned from social media is it was a good decision. On January 6, during his speech, according to Stephanie Toone from The Atlanta Journal-Constitution (AJC), he said, “We will never give up, we will never concede.” He’s telling his followers and the people who voted for him to protest and to never surrender or give up. The first amendment states, “... abridging the freedom of speech, or of the press, or the right of the people peaceably to assemble,

and to petition the Government for a redress of grievances.” Also from the AJC, he said, “Washington is being inundated with people who don’t want to see an election victory stolen by emboldened radical left democrats. Our country has had enough, they won’t take it anymore! We hear you (and love you) from the Oval Office. Make America Great Again.” He’s saying there are lots of people who don’t want to see the election stolen and to make America great again, encouraging people to stand up and protest. Most Americans are happy Trump was banned from Twitter and Facebook, but not most Republicans. Sixty-one percent of Americans supported the social media platforms decision to ban the former president. I agree with the decision as well because his actions led to a protest and a riot that killed 5 people and injured 140. If he didn’t post those things

Road Rules: Traffic laws that vary across state lines By Doug Dahl Question: Personal transportation options are great but as an Oregonian, I can’t ride my gas scooter in Washington. It clearly meets all of Oregon’s rules, but only part of Washington’s rules. Can you guys come closer to allowing out-of-state spec scooters that ride in for a visit? Answer: I sometimes wonder: If the founding fathers knew every state would create their own traffic laws, would they have been so excited about the 10th amendment and states’ rights? They probably still would have; it does have its merits. However, it may cause some hiccups with interstate travel. We’ll get to your question about scooters in a bit, but you bring up a larger point that we often don’t think about and probably should. If you travel between states, it’s not a bad idea to be aware of variations in traffic laws. Mostly, traffic law is remarkably consistent from state to state. Speed limit signs and traffic signals are the same across the nation. Even though states can write their own laws, they’re in many cases all working from the same playbooks. For example, the Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices comes from the Federal Highway Administration and is the standard used nationwide for any kind of sign, signal or road marking. And the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration sets the standards for vehicle safety. When the roads and the vehicles on them meet the same standards across the country, the rules that govern them are consistent too (mostly). However, there are variations. Here are a few that come to mind: • Yellow lights: In some states, like Washington, the yellow light is permissive (you can enter an intersection on a yellow light) and some, like Oregon, are restrictive (you can only enter an intersection on a yellow light if it’s not possible to stop safely).

• Distracted driving: 37 states ban all cell phone use for novice drivers, 24 states prohibit handheld cell phone use, 48 states prohibit texting while driving. • Seatbelts: Primary enforcement laws, secondary enforcement laws, no laws (for adults in New Hampshire) • Window tint: The amount of window tint allowed varies wildly from state to state. And motorized scooters. It’s not just Oregon and Washington with different rules. Scooter laws might have the most nation-wide variation of any law I’ve seen. It ranges from no scooter laws at all to a complete ban in some cities. Some states require a motorcycle license to ride them, some require registration, some have maximum speed limits of 15 mph, and some have a minimum age requirement. Then there’s the design itself. Maximum engine size and top speed vary between states, and some states allow up to four wheels. I can’t get into the scooter rules in every state, but in Washington, a “motorized foot scooter” is defined as “a device with two or three wheels that has handlebars, a floorboard that can be stood upon while riding, and ... has a maximum speed no greater than twenty miles per hour on level ground.” If your scooter doesn’t meet these standards, you’re pretty much limited to riding it in your driveway. Getting back to your question, if by “you guys” you mean me and my traffic safety colleagues, then no, I have no power to align the scooter laws of Washington and the neighboring states. If by “you guys” you mean the Washington state legislature, well, when states are free to decide what’s best for them, they won’t always agree. I guess you could say that’s both the beauty and the complexity of living in a group of united states. Doug Dahl is a manager with the Washington Traffic Safety Commission, Region 11 and publishes TheWiseDrive.com.

this wouldn’t have happened. In conclusion, I think that it was good to ban Trump from social media. Nobody should start a protest that could lead to violence. And also, don’t say mean things about other people. Ian Tuski Blaine The Editor: Countless Americans have been taken down or even banned by media platforms because of their viewpoints and that has to make you wonder, is that even legal? You have probably had someone around you not be able to post what they thought in fear of it being taken down. This has caused a whole group of opinions to be shut down, leaving people who are uninformed to believe in whatever they are told with no way to check. Let’s look at some of the ways we could fix it and also find out if they are able to do what they are doing. Now is any of this even legal? Let’s use an example, in this case,

Facebook. As we know, Facebook censors people that don’t believe what they want you to believe. According to 47 U.S Code 230, the internet should be used to express opinions and ideals that can not be limited. It also says that a publisher can limit what people can say but has to be punished for what is said, while a platform can’t limit what is said (except for pornographic or abusive posts) but isn’t held accountable. Facebook has been acting as a publisher but has the rights of a platform because that is what they

say they are. This is wrong and illegal since they can’t be both. What can we do about this? Well, there isn’t much we can do except make our voices heard. Vote for a new law that states they have to define if they are a publisher or a platform. We should hold the people who control what we say accountable. Should you just let them silence you because of what you think or should you tell them that what they are doing is wrong? Shawn Waters Blaine

Now, two great ways to shop books and more! • Blaine Library Friends Bookstore Monday - Saturday, 10am to 5pm

• Whatcom County Friends Online Bookstore www.wcls.org/friendsbooks BLAINE LIBRARY

Book talk/multimedia

610 3 rd Street 360.305.3637 presentation

Paid for by Friends of Blaine Library

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.

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.

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

CITY OF BLAINE

Monday, May 10 5:00pm – Study Session:

MAINTENANCE WORKER

Water Comp Plan 6:00pm – City Council Meeting Public Hearing: Proposed Annexation of 4455 H Street, Blaine, WA 98230 (Rooney Annexation)

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. The seasonal maintenance worker position requires a high level of personal integrity while providing fast, friendly and effective customer service.

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

Duties for these positions may include but are not limited to: performing routine tasks such as weed-eating, raking, mowing, shoveling and other means of mechanical vegetation control; litter pick-up; pothole patching, pavement striping; building and other public facility repair and maintenance; traffic control in a work zone of a city right of way; cleaning and painting of fire hydrants and/or roadway curbs; trail repair and maintenance; performing other assigned duties of an equally complex nature.

Thursday, May 13 9:00am – Parks and Cemetery Board Meeting

2:00pm – Public Works Advisory Committee Meeting 6:00pm – Planning Commission Meeting All City offices are currently closed to the public. Contact information for staff and Councilmembers can be found on the City’s website.

Interested persons should complete the online application on the City’s website, https://www.ci.blaine.wa.us/.

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

Application deadline is 4:30pm on May 14, 2021. The position is open until filled. The City of Blaine is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

www.cityofblaine.com

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The Northern Light • May 6 - 12, 2021

Covid-19 in Whatcom County, by school district boundaries: Recent two-week case rates and cumulative counts By Grace McCarthy Whatcom County Health Department officials say they’ve seen a decrease in Covid-19 vaccine demand within recent weeks, but it’s too soon to know the exact reason. In an email to The Northern Light, the health department said it first noticed vaccine appointments didn’t fill as quickly as usual during the April 17 community vaccine clinic it helps run at Bellingham Technical College. By the April 24 clinic, organizers were unable to fill appointments. “We anticipated there would be a slowdown from that immediate need for vaccine,” Amy Hockenberry, health department vaccine planning lead, said in a recent media conference. “But we don’t have enough information and we’re early in this shift to know what the reasons are that people are not getting vaccinated at the same frantic pace they were in the first four months.” Health department director Erika Lautenbach said in the conference it was also too soon to know when Whatcom County could reach herd immunity, but she hoped the county could reach 80 percent of the population fully vaccinated by the end of the summer. Much of herd immunity will hinge on reaching vulnerable populations and understanding the slowdown for vaccine demand, she said. Whatcom County has had a total of 8,242 confirmed cases of Covid-19 since the start of the

Blaine Rate: 296 Count: 542

Lynden Rate: 375 Count: 1344 Ferndale Rate: 359 Count: 1666

Nooksack Valley Rate: 163 Count: 747

Meridian Rate: 167 Count: 420

Mt. Baker Rate: 139 Count: 453

Bellingham Rate: 133 Count: 2935 s The rate is the number of confirmed Covid-19 cases per 100,000 people over the past two weeks. Rates were updated May 1. pandemic and 318 probable cases (8,560 total cases), according to May 3 Washington State Department of Health (DOH) data. Two people died from Covid-19 in the past week, which brought the county’s death toll to 91. The percent of deaths per total confirmed cases is 1.1 percent. The Blaine school district was the only school district in the county to decrease in Covid-19 case rates. The school district decreased from 404 cases per 100,000 people last week to 296 cases per 100,000. Lynden and Meridian school districts had the highest case rate increases. A Whatcom County Health Department spokesperson said

the previous spike in Blaine’s case rate was because of two outbreak events and not from a general increase in community spread. Citing HIPAA, the health department declined to provide more information on the outbreaks. The county should receive at least 3,940 first doses of vaccine this week, although this number is not final and is likely to increase. Last week, Whatcom County received at least 12,490 first doses. About 32.5 percent of county residents are fully vaccinated and 44.8 percent have received at least one vaccine dose, according to the department. The department reports that 74,129 county

residents are fully vaccinated and 102,102 residents have received their first shot. Statewide, 5,587,640 vaccine doses have been administered. About 31.2 percent of people in Washington are fully vaccinated and 38.9 percent have received one dose. Washington state has had 378,225 confirmed cases since the start of the pandemic and 30,382 probable cases (probable

cases come from an antigen test). In all, 5,528 people in Washington with the virus have died as of May 3 and 22,556 have been hospitalized. For more Whatcom County information, visit whatcomcounty.us/covidvaccine and whatcomcounty.us/coviddata. State information is available at bit. ly/3r2URJj. Vaccine locations can be found at bit.ly/3nZiMqr. For CDC data, visit bit.ly/39Kt4qh.

Concerns about the vaccine? Local health expert has answers By Beth Sanborn The Covid-19 pandemic has been part of our world for over a year. Millions of Americans have had Covid-19 and thousands have died from it. Not since the Spanish flu outbreak of 1918 have we experienced a pandemic like this one, but in contrast to the Spanish flu, vaccines are now available for Covid-19. In recent months, three Covid-19 vaccines, developed by three different pharmaceutical companies, have been authorized for use and everyone over age 16 is eligible to take one at no cost. Are you undecided whether or not to take a Covid-19 vaccine? I’d like to address four common concerns. First, how effective is the vaccine in preventing Covid-19? Vaccination substantially reduces the risk of contracting the disease and is highly effective at preventing severe disease, hospitalization and death. In addition, it helps prevent viral spread from an asymptomatic person to someone who is at high risk for Covid-19 and can’t be vaccinated. While the level of effectiveness varies based on the different vaccines, all of them have proven extremely effective. Because disease immunity isn’t all or nothing in the human body, no vaccines

are 100 percent effective. When someone gets Covid-19 after being vaccinated, it is called a breakthrough case. The Washington State Department of Health currently reports 127 breakthrough cases per million vaccinated, or a .01 percent chance of getting Covid-19 after vaccination. And most of these cases were mild or had no symptoms. Second, some are concerned about the safety of the vaccine and the possibility of vaccination side effects. Infectious disease specialist Dr. Shobha Swaminathan says most side effects are minor and happen in the first week. Since serious side effects usually appear within six weeks, the FDA requires at least eight weeks of safety data before authorizing a vaccine. The FDA then continues to closely monitor vaccine safety because additional but very rare side effects may not appear until many thousands of people have taken it. An example of this is the recent pause of the Johnson and Johnson vaccine due to concerns over a very small number of women developing post-vaccination blood clots. Medical researchers are looking closely to determine whether or not the vaccine might (See Covid-19, next page)

May 6 - 12, 2021 • thenorthernlight.com

Health & Wellness Local choices in health, healing & fitness. Vaccine ... From previous page

have caused the blood clots. On April 23, the FDA and CDC concluded that the benefits of this vaccine outweigh the very small blood clot risk (7 cases per million doses given to women ages 18-49) and recommended its continued usage. This allows consumers to continue choosing which of the three authorized vaccines to take. A third concern is the Emergency Use Authorization (EUA) the FDA gave the three vaccines instead of the usual FDA approval. According to Dr. Francis Collins, head of the National Institutes of Health, the EUA did not allow vaccine developers to cut any corners. No shortcuts were taken or steps skipped. The process required by the FDA was still rigorous, but the EUA sped up the timetable making the vaccine available faster. For example, several potential vaccines were being produced before any were authorized for use so that the vaccine was ready for distribution. Unauthorized vaccines were not distributed. Fourth is a concern regarding the rapid speed with which these vaccines were developed. It took less than a year from identification of the virus to vaccine use, which is an unprecedented speed. Most vaccines need many years of testing before use. But because Covid-19 quickly reached epidemic levels, vaccine research was prioritized in a joint effort between pharmaceutical companies and the federal government. Billions of dollars from both the government and non-profit organizations enabled researchers

to move quickly. Prior research on coronaviruses from the SARS (2002) and MERS (2012) epidemics gave scientists a big head start. The needed technology was already in place. And strong public support from around the world led many to volunteer to participate in clinical trials. In fact, far more participants

than past vaccine efforts were enrolled in order to help researchers quickly discover any potential problems. Covid-19 has been extensively studied and will continue to be. Everything in life has risks and benefits. Medical experts have determined that, for the vast majority of people, vaccination ben-

efits far outweigh any risks. As always, people with certain specific medical conditions should not take the vaccine and anyone questioning whether or not they should take the vac-

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CASCADIA International Women’s Film Festival returns May 13 By Sienna Boucher The CASCADIA International Women’s Film Festival returns for a fifth year and its second virtual event Thursday, May 13 through Saturday, May 22, showcasing women-directed films from around the world. The festival is only one of a handful of women’s film festivals in the country, executive director Cheryl Crooks said, adding that the festival has been upgrading its virtual format since last year’s online event. “We were one of the first film festivals to go virtual,” Crooks said. “We made mistakes last year but we definitely learned a lot given the short amount of time we had. This time we are coming back more savvy.” This year’s theme of “connect, engage and inspire” will be brought to life through movies such as “Monkey Beach,” an Indigenous film about a woman with supernatural abilities in Vancouver, B.C. and “The Bomb,” a German short film about a family who evacuates their home so the police can excavate a WWII bomb. More films were able to be included in the virtual festival, Crooks said. This year, 27 films from 14 countries will include films made by everyone from students and emerging filmmakers to professionals. Comedy, mind-bender and feature films are included in the lineup. An all-access pass is available

for $60; a $35 student pass includes everything but the director’s party; and a $35 three-pack pass includes a selection of any combination of films. The biggest redesigns to the virtual format are Zoom lobby and Gather Town, an animated space designed as the Pickford Theater, where attendees can virtually meet. The Zoom lobby is available for anybody with an all-access or student pass and is open all hours of the festival, while Gather Town is available to all-access pass holders. “It is basically like Zoom, but you have a little avatar where you can move around the space and interact with what is around you. You can interact with movie trailers and posters,” said Scout Powell, who helped organize the festival. Powell said Gather Town allows for users to speak to people one-on-one, and people in the main space can hear conversations near them. Ten local restaurants will promote the festival by offering discounts for those who use the code “CASCADIA.” Some restaurants such as Bellingham’s Boundary Bay Brewery will use Gather Town to create virtual restaurants. Two directors attending the virtual director’s party are North Carolinian filmmakers Hannah Black and Megan Petersen. The pair directed and acted in Drought, a 2020 drama that will

be showcased at the festival. The 84-minute film chronicles a teenager named Carl, who is on the autism spectrum and fascinated with the weather. While their North Carolina town is experiencing a drought, Carl and his siblings steal an ice cream truck and chase a storm that Carl predicted. “The main message of the film is that there is no such thing as normal,” Black said. “We hope that anyone who watches this realizes that they are so wonderful as they are and everyone else is wonderful as they are.” Black, who used to teach students with autism, said she was inspired by the relationships her students had with their siblings. “There is also such a family dynamic throughout the film,” she said. “We hope that after watching the film, people will call their brother or sister or mom and dad and say, ‘I love you, I miss you.’” Black and Petersen said they wanted to accurately portray someone on the spectrum. Owen Scheid, who has autism, debuted his first acting role as Carl. “We think it is very important to communicate with the person playing the role to make sure they feel it accurately represents someone’s perspective who is on the autism spectrum,” Petersen said. Alongside directing, Black and Petersen also act in the film, with Black playing Carl’s younger sister Sam Armstrong and Petersen playing Carl’s older sister Lillian

s Hannah Black, l., and Megan Petersen in the 2020 film Drought, which will be showcased at CASCADIA film festival. Courtesy photo

s The Gather Town lobby, where festival attendees can virtually meet, is designed to resemble Pickford Theater. Courtesy image Armstrong. Petersen also had a role in House of Cards. Petersen and Black said they are glad their film can reach a larger audience in the virtual festival and are excited to be able to make connections with other filmmakers at CASCADIA. “Now, people can view the films

from whatever time zone they are in,” Powell said. “The festival has become so much more accessible, which is amazing.” Tickets went on sale May 1 on the CASCADIA International Film Festival website, cascadiafilmfest.org.

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May 6 - 12, 2021 • thenorthernlight.com

Drayton ... From page 1

same as when it wrote the resolution in July 2019 for county council to address concerns of hunting in Drayton Harbor. “Because Blaine did not annex all the way to Semiahmoo, we have this county area right in the middle,” Blaine mayor Bonnie Onyon said during the March council meeting. “We’re a growing urban area, so that’s a significant point. Whether there has been anyone shot or not, a huge danger of risk of life, there is a perceived notion and people are fearful when they walk along the water.” In an April 16 letter to Whatcom County Council, Onyon said the city has received requests over the years from residents asking for the shooting to stop in the harbor. She also noted in the letter that Whatcom County has 22 other no shooting zones, including Wiser Lake, and questioned

s The boundaries of the proposed no shooting zone in Drayton Harbor. Image courtesy Whatcom County Council

how hunters would know where the boundary lines are between the city, where shooting is prohibited, and the county.

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The Northern Light • May 6 - 12, 2021

Blessing of the Fleet honors fishermen lost at sea

s Gary Dunster addresses the crowd at Blaine’s Blessing of the Fleet on May 2.

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s Auxiliary Coast Guard members Gary Farrow, l., Jeff Shaw, r., and Captain Richard Sturgill (not pictured) took the wreath on the Plover ferry heading out of Blaine Harbor and placed it Semiahmoo Bay. Photo by Ruth Lauman

s Port of Bellingham commissioner Bobby Briscoe gives a speech at the Blessing of the Fleet. Photo by Ruth Lauman

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May 6 - 12, 2021 • thenorthernlight.com

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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

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

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

NOTICE TO CREDITORS In the Superior Court of the State of Washington, In and for the County of Whatcom, In re the Estate of Peter Weg Jr.. Probate No.21-4-00252-37 Judge: David Freeman. The Personal Representative named below has been appointed as personal representative of this estate. Any person having a claim against the decedent must, before the time the claim would be barred by any otherwise applicable statute of limitations, present the claim in the manner as provided in RCW 11.40.070 by serving on or mailing to the personal representative or the personal representative’s attorney at the address stated below a copy of the claim and filing the original of the claim with the Clerk of this Court. The claim must be presented within the later of: (1) Thirty days after the personal representative served or mailed the notice to the creditor as provided under RCW 11.40.020(1)(c); or (2) four months after the date of first publication of the notice (twenty-four (24) months if notice is not published). If the claim is not presented within this time frame, the claim is forever barred, except as otherwise provided in RCW 11.40.051 and 11.40.060. This bar is effective as to claims against both the decedent’s probate and nonprobate assets. Date of first publication: 5/6/21. Personal Representative: Marsha Miller. 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 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

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

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C e l e b r at e M o m i n B l a i n e & B i r c h B ay !

Blaine • Birch Bay • Semiahmoo

25¢ for each additional word

(360) 332 - 6300

Published May 6, 2021

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CHECK OUT THE REAL ESTATE LISTINGS on page 12

The Northern Light • May 6 - 12, 2021

Real Estate

Bay Properties Semiahmoo homeS, inc.

NW LUXURY REAL ESTATE AT A HIGHER LEVEL

4751 Birch Bay Lynden Road #2, Birch Bay $199,500

LOCATED JUST MINUTES FROM THE BEACH...

XXXX East Smith Road $199,000

Rare, no bank waterfront facing west for sunsets over the BIRCH BAY BEACHFRONT! bay! Just steps from the beach where you can launch your kayak, beachcomb, drop a crab pot or go for a swim! This 1689 SF 3 BD, 3.25 BA is a 2 story half duplex unit in the Haven Condominium complex. Bring your beach buckets and enjoy this most amazing location that is within walking distance to restaurants and all that Birch Bay has to offer!

Build your dream home on this 3.13 acre parcel! Property already has a 3 bedroom Glendon 3.13 ACRES READY FOR Biofilter septic system YOUR DREAM HOME! installed, an existing “groomed” road, a power vault close to the property plus a brand new steel bridge installed over a nice stream flowing to Anderson Creek! This is a great property that is just minutes from Bellingham!

Terry Conway • (360) 410-0503

CeCelia Breivik • (360) 303-8161

7806 Birch Bay Drive #302, Jacob’s Landing $275,000 NOW SOLD!

This 900 SF 2 BD, 1.5 BA unit is nestled in the quiet setting of beautifully landscaped grounds. Enjoy the back deck for quiet morning coffee or private dinners and the front deck for basking in the sunshine. Features of this condo include wood floors, wall to wall carpet and stainless steel appliances. Enjoy as your primary residence or weekend get-away! A rare find don’t miss out on making this your new home!

LOCATION, LOCATION, LOCATION!

Carl W. R. Dufton • (360) 815-6637

10823 Halloran Road, Bow • $349,000

Rare opportunity for 60 feet of SOLD IN JUST 1 DAY! waterfront in Birch Bay Village. Unbelievable views of Mt. Baker, Twin Sisters & Birch Bay from every angle. Step right out to the beach. Main floor of 2582 SF home offers 3 BD & 3 BA with great open living. Loft space has 2 “flex” rooms, perfect for office, gym, & media. Complete re-build in 2012. Chef’s kitchen, dry bar, hot tub and trex decking on the patio all make for the perfect gathering spot. Added features include invisible fence, irrigation, extra deep garage for storage. Highly desirable community with private marina, beaches, parks, golf, pool, tennis and gated security! Real beach living!

Fantastic opportunity for Island 1080 SF 2 BD, 1.75 BA ENJOY ISLAND LIVING! Living! doublewide MF home a getaway spot, or build a dream home. Absolutely clean from top to bottom. Updated 3 bedroom septic, new 8x12 shed & 16x20 custom studio offer multiple usage. Room for RV/trailer with electric/water hook-up & septic access. Located near public park & there are also 2 access points to nearby beaches. Property includes thought out landscaping, garden space & level yard. Sellers have done all prep work to make this ready for you to create your vision. Inspections, surveys, permits are available at a huge value to new owner!

SUMMER IS CALLING!

Heather Taylor • (425) 785-5771

Ruth Skeete • (360) 358-5075

BIR

Julie Ward • (760) 522-2564

DRA YTO

BAY

ILLS

5550 Salish Road • Blaine $799,500 MLS # 1735916 3258 square feet

55+ community Purchase includes home & 1/18th share in Birch Bay Retirement Inc. an 18 home development with common areas that include RV parking. May be least expensive place to live in Birch Bay on monthly basis. Monthly dues of $120 include all expenses. Great location, perfect sun exposure.

Built in 2005, feels just completed. 3 bed, 2 full baths, sauna, granite counter tops, Cedar siding, composition room, covered patio & deck, 5 zone in-floor radiant heat including 3 car garage. Kitchen: maple cabinets, slate backsplash, ss appliances. Main level: Great room, kitchen, dining room, 2 guest beds & 1 full guest bath, deck. Garden level: family room, master bed, patio.

briansouthwick@gmail.com

Rentals - Rooms FURNISHED ROOMS including amenities, NS, pet friendly starts at $600/mo. + deposit, references required, willing to credit for yard work. Call 360332-3449.

Handyman 28-Years Experience

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Ron 360-739-5097

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Get on the Map! Now taking ad reservations for the 2021 Blaine Birch Bay Map & Event Calendar! Distribution June 2021

To advertise call 360-332-1777 sales@thenorthernlight.com

3 6 Pending 3 2 Listed

“Old FashiOned service”

www.GerryAllen.org

FREE

Market Analysis CALL ME...

Lisa Sprague 360-961-0838

All estate/rentals advertising in this newspaper is subject to Allreal real estate/rentals advertisthe Housing Actisofsubject 1968 as amended, which makes ingFederal in thisFair newspaper ittoillegal advertiseFair anyHousing preference,Act limitation or discrimination the to Federal based on race, color,makes religion, itsex,illegal handicap familial status or naof 1968 as amended, which origin, any or anpreference, intention to make any suchorpreference, totional advertise limitation dis- limitation or discrimination. This newspaper will not knowingly accept any advertisement for real crimination based on race, color, religion, estate which is infamilial violationstatus of the law. readersoriare hereby informed that all sex, handicap, or Our national dwellings advertised in this newspaper are available on an equal opportunity gin, or an intention to make any such prefbasis. To complain of discrimination, call HUD toll-free at 1-800-877-0246. erence, limitation or discrimination. This newspaper will not knowingly accept any advertisement for real estate which is in violation of the law. Our readers are hereby inCommercial formed 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.

Retail/Office Space

FOR LEASE

Near Truck Route & Shopping Mall

360-305-0286

Email nelsbldg@msn.com

Let visitors & locals to know about your business?

Gerry’s 30-Day Stats

Check out My Active Listings:

Rentals -

Heating/Air

Hugh Brawford, Managing Broker

360-920-0563

360.815.6638

see more pictures at www.briansouthwick.com

Your Local Expert For All Real Estate, Residential Or Commercial Services!

GerryAllen@windermere.com

Owner/Agent

Location, Location!

Call Hugh : 360.371.5800

Gerry Allen

Listing your property? Call Lisa for a

8370 Harborview Road #11 • Birch Bay $259,900 MLS #1725056 776 square feet

20+ acres on Kickerville Road $179,000

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

Thinking of

IDE

PENDING! K-2, 36’ Finger Slip for $42,000

www.CallHugh.com

5455 Tsawwassen Loop $1,325,000 TOES IN THE SAND!

DESIRABLE UPPER END UNIT AT JACOB’S LANDING!

PENDING! C-33, 40’ Slip for $46,500

7605 Birch Bay Drive #B, Birch Bay $750,000 TOES IN THE SAND!

LATITUDE 49! This 1 BD, 1 BA home has been seriously upgraded and remodeled! The main living area is 384 +/- SF with a 132 +/- SF front porch that has an enclosed addition on the porch which could be used as a second bedroom! There is a nice garden shed which will have a washer / dryer hook up. This 180 day property is close to all amenities at Latitude 49: pool, hot tub, putting green, exercise room, playground and clubhouse. Minutes to I-5 and the US/CND border.

Semiahmoo Marina Boat slips:

8045 BIRCH BAY DRIVE, BLAINE, WA 360-371-7252 BAYPROPERTIESNW.COM

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With Waterfront Views of Blaine Harbor

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Prime ground floor office and retail space in The Northern Light Cannery-style building at Blaine Harbor. For leasing info, contact Pat Grubb

360/332-1777

Classifieds are online at thenorthernlight.com/classifieds

May 6 - 12, 2021 • thenorthernlight.com

Highlights from Olympia: How did your elected representatives vote?

Rep. Sharon Shewmake (D-Bellingham)

Rep. Alicia Rule (D-Blaine)

Y N Y Y

A project of the Washington Policy Center, WashingtonVotes. org issues a periodic report of recent votes cast by state lawmakers in Olympia. Following are the votes cast in April by District 42 representatives Sharon Shewmake (D-Bellingham) and Alicia Rule (D-Blaine) and state Senator Doug Ericksen (R-Ferndale). More details on the bills can be found online at wavotes.org.

Senate Bill 5096: Concerning an excise tax on gains from the sale or exchange of certain capital assets. Passed the House on April 21, 2021 by a vote of 52-46. Senate Bill 5096: Amendment to remove reference to the tax as necessary for the support of state government and existing public institutions. Failed in the House on April 20, 2021 by a vote of 47-51.

Y Y

Senate Bill 5096: Amendment to add a referendum clause to the bill. Failed in the House on April 20, 2021 by a vote of 48-50.

N N

House Concurrent Resolution 4402: Exempting certain bills from legislative cutoff dates. Failed in the House on April 16, 2021 by a vote of 41-56, one member excused.

Y Y

Senate Bill 5044: Concerning professional learning, equity, cultural competency, and dismantling institutional racism in the public school system. Passed the House on April 11, 2021 by a vote of 57-40, one member excused

N N

Senate Bill 5044: Amendment offered by Rep. Jim Walsh to bar certain content from mandatory equity training. Failed in the House on April 11. 2021 by a vote of 39-58, one member excused.

Y N

House Bill 1287: Concerning preparedness for a zero emissions transportation future. Passed the House on Final Passage on April 14, 2021 by a vote of 54-43, one member excused.

Y Y

Senate Bill 5092: Making 2021-2023 fiscal biennium operating appropriations. Passed the House on April 3, 2021 by a vote of 57-41.

Y Y

Senate Bill 5038: Prohibiting the open carry of certain weapons at public demonstrations and the state capitol. Passed the House on March 28, 2021 by a vote of 50-47, one member excused.

Y N

House Bill 1277: Providing for an additional revenue source for eviction prevention and housing stability services. Passed the House on March 28, 2021 by a vote of 57-40, one member excused.

Y Y

Senate Bill 5229: Concerning health equity continuing education for health care professionals. Passed the House on March 24, 2021 by a vote of 57-41.

O B I T U A RY Mary Wright

April 8, 1921–April 16, 2021 Mary Wright passed away peacefully in her sleep on April 16, 2021. Angels are found in heaven, but Mary was an angel here on Earth. Mary was born in Ollala, WA, on April 8, 1921, as one of nine children born to Austin and Mary Braaten. Mary grew up through the Great Depression and she knew how to save. She graduated from South Kitsap High School in Port Orchard in the top ten of her class in 1939. She met Art Wright in Bremerton, Washington in the spring of 1943. Art was stationed at the Puget Sound Naval Shipyard and they were married in September of 1943. They both loved to dance. Mary and Art were blessed with three children. Mary was preceded in death by her parents, eight siblings, her husband, and son in-law George Wilkins. She is survived by her daughter Karen Wilkins of Blaine; and sons Gary (Kathy) Wright, of Palm Desert; and Bill (Kristi) Wright of Blaine. She is also survived by her grandchildren Fred (Sharon) Chadwick; Casey (Jim) Mark; Will Wright; Greg (Jara) Wright; April (Kevin) Karreci; and Leah (Cory) Crews. Along with nine great-grandchildren and one great-great-granddaughter. April 8, 2021 was Mary’s 100th birthday. The “Today Show” presented Mary’s picture on a jar of Smucker’s Jam that morning. She celebrated with almost all of her children, grandchildren, nieces, nephews, and friends. Mary touched a lot of lives in her one hundred years in a very kind and generous manner. “Gramma Mary” was a very special lady to all of us, especially the grandchildren and their friends. They loved her cookies and the great home cooked meals. She was the most wonderful mother, grandmother, and friend that anyone could ask for. The family would like to thank the nurses and staff at Christian Health Care Center for their wonderful care the last two years. A graveside service will be held in Ollala, WA on May 22 to honor the life of Mary. If everyone were like Gramma Mary, this would truly be a wonderful world!

Sen. Doug Ericksen (R-Ferndale)

Senate Bill 5476: Responding to the State v. Blake decision by addressing justice system responses and behavioral health prevention, treatment, and related services. Passed the Senate on April 15, 2021 by a vote of 28-20, one member excused.

House Bill 1287: Concerning preparedness for a zero emissions transportation future. Passed the Senate on April 10, 2021 by a vote of 25-23, one member excused.

Senate Bill 5126: Concerning the Washington climate commitment act. Passed the Senate on April 8, 2021 by a vote of 25-24.

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House Bill 1091: Reducing greenhouse gas emissions by reducing the carbon intensity of transportation fuel. Passed the Senate on April 8, 2021 by a vote of 27-20, two members excused.

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Senate Bill 5092: Making 2021-2023 fiscal biennium operating appropriations. Passed the Senate on April 1, 2021 by a vote of 27-22.

House Bill 1078: Restoring voter eligibility for all persons convicted of a felony offense who are not in total confinement under the jurisdiction of the department of corrections. Passed the Senate on March 24, 2021 by a vote of 27-22.

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Ecology fines Intalco $2,500 for water violations By Grace McCarthy The Washington State Department of Ecology (DOE) fined Alcoa Intalco Works $2,500 for violating several water quality regulations over the past six months. DOE fined the Ferndale smelter for exceeding the maximum

amount for daily fluoride discharge on October 15, 2020, according to the DOE, as well as monthly fluoride discharge limits for October and November 2020. The smelter also didn’t meet sampling requirements for fluoride and suspended solids last October and surpassed the daily

limit for oil and grease January 4. The smelter has paid the $2,500 penalty, the DOE said. From January to March, the DOE issued over $82,000 in penalties that exceeded $1,000. Alcoa announced curtailment of over 700 former Ferndale employees at the end of April 2020.

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This space can be yours for only $37 per week. COVERED/HEATED PATIO DINING DINING ROOM • TAPROOM 277 G Street • Downtown Blaine

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The Northern Light • May 6 - 12, 2021

Sheriff’s Reports April 24, 4:11 p.m.: Mental on Surf Place. April 24, 4:17 p.m.: Suicidal subject on Bruce Road, Custer. April 24, 6:39 p.m.: Motor vehicle accident on Point Whitehorn Road. Driver arrested for DUI. April 25, 5:07 p.m.: Juvenile problem on Starfish Lane. April 25, 8:50 p.m.: Watch for on Mayfair Place. DUI arrest. April 25, 10:35 p.m.: Drugs on Bayshore Drive. April 25, 11:17 p.m.: Assist agency on 6th and A streets. April 26, 8:56 a.m.: Sex crime, no rape, on Harborview Road. April 26, 9:53 p.m.: Suspicious circumstances on Alder Street. Suspect arrested. April 26, 10:59 a.m.: Assist citizen on Zell Road, Custer. April 26, 2:56 p.m.: Assault simple on Elaine Street. Suspect arrested. April 26, 7:27 p.m.: Domestic verbal on Seaview Drive. April 27, 2:37 p.m.: Traffic stop on Valley View Road. Driver arrested for suspended license. April 28, 4:08 p.m.: Theft on Kickerville Road. April 28, 5:43 p.m.: Runaway on Morrison Avenue. April 28, 6:13 p.m.: Suspicious vehicle on Birch Bay-Lynden Road.

April 29, 11:40 a.m.: Domestic physical on Breeze Loop. April 29, 1:0 5 p.m.: Juvenile problem on Fawn Crescent Road. April 29, 6:36 p.m.: Rape cold call on Dean Drive, Custer. April 29, 7:55 p.m.: Neighborhood dispute on Harborview Road.

Police Reports April 23, 12:01 a.m.: Vehicle theft on Semiahmoo Parkway. April 23, 12 p.m.: Abandoned vehicle towed on B Street. April 23, 2:51 p.m.: Homeless person complaint on Grant Avenue. April 23, 3:06 p.m.: Vandalism outside of city limits. April 24, 9:51 a.m.: Suspended driving arrest on Boblett Street. April 24, 12 p.m.: Domestic dispute on Bayview Avenue. April 24, 11:37 p.m.: Verbal domestic dispute on F Street. April 25, 12:11 p.m.: Reported alarm activation and security check on Semiahmoo Drive. April 25, 5:10 p.m.: Lost wallet on A Street. April 26, 7:50 a.m.: Shoplifting complaint on H Street. April 26, 10:58 a.m.: Verbal domestic report on Runge Avenue.

Crossword ACROSS 1. A group of sheep 5. Of she 8. This (Spanish) 12. A type of sorcery 14. A team’s best pitcher 15. Port in southern Japan 16. Makes very happy 18. Trigonometric unit of measurement 19. From a distance 20. Winged nut 21. Consumed 22. “Heat” director 23. In all places 26 Made improvements to 30. St. __ Girl: brand of beer 31. A type of “seat” 32. Wood 33. A brief treatise on a subject of interest 34. Approval 39. Basics 42. Where judges sit 44. W. African religion 46. Commentators 47. Having many different functions 49. Member of a Semitic people

April 30, 7:58 a.m.: Missing person on Giles Road. April 30, 9:36 a.m.: Harassment on Harborview Road. April 30, 3:52 p.m.: Aggravated assault on Leeside Drive. Two suspects arrested. May 1, 4:45 a.m.: Motor vehicle accident on Anderson and Harborview roads.

50. Flightless, fast-running bird 51. After the seventh 56. Small N. Zealand tree 57. Health care pro (abbr.) 58. Playground mainstay 59. Expressing relief 60. Records brain activity (abbr.) 61. Fishing net 62. Beer 63. Tooth caregiver 64. Japanese beverage DOWN 1. Garden tools 2. Early Syrian kingdom 3. 500 sheets of paper 4. Information 5. Beloved comic strip character 6. Distinct form of a plant 7. Replenishment 8. Semitransparent glassy substance 9. Expedition to observe animals

10. One who held landed granted by Anglo-Saxon king 11. Obtain in return for labor 13. Inheritable genetically 17. One who rescues 24. Doctor of Education 25. Liberal arts 26. Shock treatment 27. Disfigure 28. When you hope to get there 29. Peacock network 35. Part of (abbr.) 36. The 21st letter of the Greek alphabet 37. Not just “play” 38. Former CIA 40. Reduced to a sloping edge 41. Restricted the development of 42. Sciences degree 43. Sea eagles 44. Saturated 45. Joints 47. Sailing boat 48. Respiratory organs 49. Guitarists use them 52. Disco act: Bee __

April 26, 12:05 p.m.: Suspicious circumstances on H Street. April 26, 4:15 p.m.: Criminal traffic stop on H Street. April 27, 9:26 a.m.: Internet fraud on Turnstone Lane. April 27, 12:44 p.m.: Harassment complaint on 4th Street. April 28, 10:51 a.m.: Court order violation on Peace Portal Drive. April 29, 4:25 a.m.: Malicious mischief on D Street. April 29, 8:58 a.m.: Vandalism report with minor property damage on McMillan Avenue. April 29, 1 p.m.: Online scam report on Wilson Avenue. April 30, 12:13 a.m.: Missing person on H Street. April 30, 10:54 a.m.: Traffic and trespass complaint on Peace Portal Drive. Report by Blaine Police Department.

53. First Chinese dynasty 54. Intentionally lose 55. Muslim people of China ANSWERS: THENORTHERNLIGHT.COM

49° 0’ 0”N - 122° 46’ 0”W DATE

TIME

Fr 7

3:35 am 9.0 10:22 am 2.7

HEIGHT

4:04 pm 6.4

9:31 am 3.1

Sa 8 4:01 am 8.9 10:50 am 1.8

5:06 pm 7.0 10:19 pm 3.9

Su 9 4:25 am 8.8 11:18 am 1.0

5:58 pm 7.6 11:07 pm 4.6

Mo 10 4:47 am 8.6 11:46 am 0.4

6:46 pm 8.2 11:51 pm 5.2

Tu 11 5:09 am 8.5 12:14 pm -0.2

7:28 pm 8.7

We 12 12:35 am 5.7

5:29 am 8.3

12:44 pm -0.5

8:10 pm 9.0

Th 13 1:17 am 6.2

5:51 am 8.1

8:54 pm 9.2

1:14 pm -0.7

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 whatcomlandtrust.org/event/conservation-conversations/. 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. Pleasant Valley Shop Hop: Friday–Sunday, May 7–9. Check out small, independently-owned shops specializing in home and garden, vintage goods, crafts and more. For more information: https://rb.gy/ambmk2 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. Red Road to DC Totem Pole Journey Visit and Blessing: Saturday, May 8, 3–6 p.m., Birch Bay Vogt Library Property, 7968 Birch Bay Drive. Hosted by Friends of Birch Bay Library and Birch Bay Chamber of Commerce. 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. 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.

Bird Migration Vagrancy in Washington: Tuesday, May 25, 7–8:30 p.m. Virtual meeting with Matt Bartels, current secretary of Washington Bird Records Committee discusses the processes of the main methods that lead to vagrancy and how that applies to Washington rarities and brings these unusual birds to our state. Info and registration: whatcommuseum.org.

May 7 – 13 at Blaine. Not for navigation.

TIME

Please wear masks and follow social distancing guidelines.

Audubon at the Museum: Sunday, May 23, 1–3 p.m., Old City Hall, 121 Prospect Street, Bellingham. A volunteer with the North Cascades Audubon Society will answer question about migration, conservation, birds in peril and the importance of studying bird specimens today. Info: whatcommuseum.org.

Tides HEIGHT

Coming up

Weather

Precipitation: During the period of April 26 to May 2, 0.3 inches of precipitation was recorded. The 2021 year-to-date precipitation is 12 inches. Temperature: High for the past week was 69°F on April 30 with a low of 44°F on May 2. Average high was 59°F and average low was 53°F. Courtesy Birch Bay Water & Sewer Dist.

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:360/3326350 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. 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 email him at pcorcorran@gmail.com for the Zoom link. 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.

May 6 - 12, 2021 • thenorthernlight.com

Sports

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Spring sports play final games, winter to start next By Ian Haupt Most spring sports will wrapup their final games of the shortened season this week as winter sports will start practicing next week. Baseball The Borderites hosted Mount Baker April 29 for an emphatic victory, beating the Mountaineers 11-1. The boys then traveled to Oak Harbor May 6 where they lost 8-4. As of May 1, Everett Simpson, Axel Puls and Jaxon Kortlever sit second, fifth and eighth in conference for batting average. In a row, their averages so far this season are .455, .424 and .395. Puls, Simpson and Brady Castellano also sit fourth, fifth and sixth in on-base percentage, with .558, .550 and .548. Puls has the third highest slugging percentage in the conference, .697, and Simpson has the ninth, .515. Simpson, Puls and Kortlever are also in the top 10 in conference for most hits and runs scored, according to Whatcom Prep Sports. The Borderites will play their final two games of the shortened spring season this week. They will host Burlington-Edison Thursday, May 6, and play Mount Vernon Saturday, May 8. The Borderites have an even record of 6-6 so far this season. Boys soccer The Borderites returned from a hiatus with two back-to-back home games against Oak Harbor and Meridian on April 30 and May 1. The boys lost 5-0 and 5-1. Then they traveled to Ferndale May 3 where they lost 7-0. The team was scheduled to host Lynden Christian May 5 and travel to Nooksack Valley Friday, May 7. Softball The last recorded game the lady Borderites played was April 27, losing 14-3 to Nooksack Valley. Since, the team had a double-header against Meridian scheduled for April 30 canceled. They were scheduled to play Oak Harbor May 5. The Borderites are expected to host a make-up game against Meridian Saturday, May 8 for their last games of the season. Their record so far is 3-7. Track and Field Boys and girls track and field will wrap up their season at the county meet in Lynden Saturday, May 8. As of May 2, Scott Baldwin remained in the top 10 in conference in the high jump. He sits fourth with a height of 5 feet 10 inches. Wiconi Bowers sits second in the girls 400 meters with a time of 1:04.31. Eleeshiyah Faulkner leads the conference in the girls 100 and 300 meter hurdles with times of 17.88 and 48.88. Diana Kovtun sits fifth in the girls pole vault with a height of 7 feet 6 inches, according to Whatcom Prep Sports.

Golf Boys golf are scheduled to meet in conference for the last time this season Thursday, May 6 in Ferndale. Girls golf had their last round of the season at Lake Padden on May 3. Girls tennis The Borderites were expected to play Squalicum May 5. They will round-out their shortened season hosting Mount Vernon Thursday, May 6.

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s Axel Puls at bat in the Borderites’ commanding victory over Nooksack Valley April 27.

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Photo by Janell Kortlever

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The Northern Light • May 6 - 12, 2021

Man shot in the foot during a drive-by shooting, suspects arrested By Ian Haupt A Blaine man and woman were arrested April 30 heading toward Birch Bay as suspects in a driveby shooting that left a man shot in the foot. The Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office (WCSO) booked Joshua Curtis Stroud, 40, into Whatcom County Jail on suspicion of first-degree assault, drive-by shooting and unlawful possession of a firearm. Michelle Lyn Spaulding, 39, was also booked

into Whatcom County Jail on suspicion of first-degree assault and drive-by shooting. Jail records show both were released May 3 on bail or bond. WCSO deputies were dispatched to the 7500 block of Leeside Drive on April 30 for a reported fight, WCSO spokesperson Deb Slater said. While en route, dispatch aired additional information that multiple witnesses had heard a gunshot, and that a man who had shot another man had left toward

Birch Bay in a red or gold fourdoor vehicle. At the scene, deputies found the victim who, Slater said, had been shot in the foot. He told deputies that Stroud, whom he knew, had shot him. Around the same time, deputies stopped a red BMW on Grandview Road, just west of Kickerville Road, with Stroud and Spaulding in the car, Slater reported. An investigation found three witnesses who said they saw

Stroud shoot the victim in the foot. Deputies also believe that Spaulding was an accomplice. The victim was taken to the hospital and treated for the gunshot wound, Slater reported. Both Stroud and Spaulding have a record of criminal history. In 2019, Spaulding was charged with first-degree burglary, four counts of theft of a firearm and second-degree theft after being caught attempting to steal four firearms among other belongings from a Custer residence, The

Northern Light previously reported. Stroud was arrested as well but not charged. In 2014, Spaulding was sentenced to two years in prison for stealing from about 270 mailboxes in Whatcom, Skagit and Snohomish counties, The Northern Light also reported. Whatcom County Superior Court documents show Stroud also has previous convictions for assault, reckless endangerment, possession of stolen property and forgery.

State legislature approves Nooksack River adjudication budget By Nolan Baker On April 25, the Washington state legislature approved a budget appropriation for the Department of Ecology (DOE) to begin the process of a court adjudication of the Nooksack River. Adjudication will bring in anyone who has a claim on water from the Nooksack River and use the state courts to determine who gets the first right of water and irrigation. Washington state law currently uses the “first in time, first in right” doctrine, meaning water rights are determined by seniority of the claim. The Nooksack Tribe and the Lummi Nation have the oldest claim to the river, dating back to the 1855 Treaty of Point Elliott, more than 30 years before Washington became a state. The tribes

have been in constant contact with the DOE to lobby for the adjudication process. Robin McPherson, DOE’s adjudication assessment manager, said that the tribes’ willingness to negotiate with the state government in a collaborative adjudication process, rather than through individual legal battles, has helped the process gather steam in the legislature. “[Local tribes] are instead asking us to bring them into state court, which is a really valuable opportunity for us to reconcile tribal and federal claims with our state law claim,” McPherson said. In an April 28 press release, the Nooksack Tribe and Lummi Nation praised the decision by the state legislature as one that will help future generations to continue to live off the river that has

sustained their people. “With adjudication, we can look to a future where all our grandchildren are able to harvest salmon from our water and still make a living on the land,” Lummi Nation chairman Lawrence Solomon said. But the formal court process of quantifying water claims on the river is not supported by all. Local farmers are anxious that their claims will be so far down the line that in the event of a dry summer, their irrigation will be turned off in favor of more senior claimants. Gavin Willis, outreach and development director at Whatcom Family Farmers, a non-profit advocacy group for local farmers, said that without a guarantee of irrigation, farmers are becoming increasingly anxious about their future in Whatcom County.

s The Nooksack River. “Without guaranteed access to water, the value of [farmer’s] land is significantly decreased and they might not have access to the credit that they need to farm,” Willis said.

Photo courtesy DOE

The river adjudication process, which will involve years of scientific surveys, public outreach and court litigation, allocates $463,000 in 2022, and $537,000 in 2023 to the DOE.