The Northern Light: May 20-26, 2021 by Point Roberts Press

May 20 - 26, 2021

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Community Newspaper of Blaine and Birch Bay HHHECRWSSHHH Postal Customer

IN THIS

ISSUE

Boat catches on fire at Blaine Harbor, page 3

Inslee announces opening the state, masks optional for vaccinated

Whatcom County won’t go into Phase 2, page 8

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

Who has the right-of-way, page 15

Sculptures decorate Peace Arch Park

By Grace McCarthy

(See Inslee, page 13)

s “Pack of Dogs” by Ron Simmer, a Burnaby, B.C. artist, was one of a few sculptures installed at Peace Arch Park on May 15. “Pack of Dogs” is made of recycled stainless steel fire extinguishers. The sculptures are part of the annual Peace Arch Park International Sculpture Exhibition put on yearly by the International Peace Arch Association. Photo by Ruth Lauman

NWFR withdraws from regional fire authority By Nolan Baker Negotiations to form a regional fire authority (RFA) encompassing North Whatcom Fire and Rescue (NWFR) and Whatcom County Fire District 4 (WCFD4) have foundered following an April 15 decision by NWFR fire commissioners to drop out of the negotiations. The two districts had been planning an amalgamation of the both districts into a cohesive regional fire authority earlier this year. A RFA means residents from Agate Bay to Birch Bay would be served under one district and

would join a group of 12 RFAs already established throughout the state. In explaining their move, NWFR fire commissioners cited “cultural and strategic differences” between the districts. A decision that was once expected to be on the 2021 ballot for voters will now be delayed, most likely with planning to begin after the November commissioner elections, according to the districts. Levy expected on August ballot For residents of NWFR, otherwise known as Whatcom County Fire District 21, and Whatcom County Fire District 4

New train inspection facility to reduce traffic delays By Ian Haupt A new train scanner to be installed at the border may reduce traffic delays in Blaine and Birch Bay as U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) says the new technology would allow trains to travel at twice the speed. In a May 10 Blaine City Council meeting, CBP program manager Garret Kylie Reinhart told council the new system will increase scanning efficiency and security. Trains will be allowed travel up to 12 mph

through the new scanners, while the current scanner allows for a maximum of 5 mph, he said. CBP announced in a May 12 press release that it will, in a $46 million initiative, begin replacing aging rail scanning systems at 12 ports of entry this fall. “Blaine was specifically chosen, along with another location along the northern border, due to health and safety reasons,” Reinhart said, referring to the Bell Road and Peace Portal Drive intersection. Bell Road connects the communities of

Birch Bay and Semiahmoo with downtown Blaine and Interstate 5. Because of the placement of the current scanning system, just south of the intersection, a train can cause long traffic delays when undergoing inspection, especially if something is detected and further investigation required. Reinhart said the trains are then stopped, blocking the intersection, while the suspected car is inspected and possibly replaced. (See Train, page 6)

(WCFD4), a ballot measure to increase the property tax levy that funds fire and rescue operations will appear on incoming ballots in the August 3 primary elections. If approved by voters, the proposed levy lid lift will increase the levy rate to $1.45 per $1,000 of assessed property value (APV). The current maximum levy amount allowed under state law is $1.50 per $1,000 APV, with a yearly increase capped at 1 percent per year. This will be the first time NWFR has (See RFA, page 16)

INSIDE

Many public spaces in Washington state will be set to reopen to 100 percent capacity on June 30, governor Jay Inslee announced during a May 13 media conference. “This is a huge step forward,” Inslee said during the meeting, where he spoke without a mask for the first time in months. “It’s a new step forward in our fight against Covid-19.” The full reopening, which encompasses restaurants and gyms, could reopen sooner if more than 70 percent of people 16 or older are fully vaccinated for Covid-19, Inslee said. Currently, 56 percent of that population has had at least one vaccine dose. Children 12 and older became eligible for the vaccine on May 12, but Inslee said it was too recent to be fair for that group to be included in the 70 percent requirement for full reopening. People are fully vaccinated after two weeks of receiving their second dose of the Pfizer and Moderna vaccine, or two weeks after the one-shot Johnson and Johnson vaccine, according to the CDC. The state could see restrictions again if the state’s ICU occupancy goes above 90 percent, Inslee said. As of May 19, the ICU capacity was 78.8 percent. State follows CDC mask guidance Starting immediately, Washington will also follow CDC guidance issued earlier in the day for fully vaccinated people. Masks are still required in healthcare facilities such as hospitals and doctor’s offices, schools, public transportation, correctional facilities and homeless shelters, according to the governor’s office. According to the CDC, those fully vaccinated may resume activities they did before the pandemic without wearing a mask or social distancing, except when required by law or businesses. Business owners can still require people to wear masks, Inslee said. People will not need to show businesses their vaccination card right now, unless the business asks

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

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The Northern Light • May 20 - 26, 2021

Plombon announces bid for Blaine City Council Ward 3 Position 6 seat Jennifer Plombon, a former Semiahmoo Residents Association board member and retired nurse, is challenging councilmember Eric Davidson for the Ward 3 Position 6 seat on Blaine City Council. In a statement, Plombon said she wanted to be engaged with all Ward 3 residents as she hopes to enhance small businesses, the environment and tourism. “I’d like to see more emphasis on environmental issues and how they relate to keeping Blaine a vibrant city,” Plombon said in a phone interview. “I think it’s very important we keep our water and our harbor clean because that’s one of the main reasons people come here.” Plombon said in a statement she would also like to help businesses open safely for indoor din-

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ing and reduce waste from takeout and unnecessary bags. Plombon said she decided to run for council now because her position ended on Semiahmoo’s residential association and she wants to invest her time in having more influence in the world. Plombon has also served on Semiahmoo’s architectural standards committee and has volunteered at wildlife rehabilitation centers for more than 20 years. She is also a founding member and current board member of Hedgehog Welfare Society, a national nonprofit dedicated to hedgehog rescue and education. Plombon holds a bachelor’s degree in nursing and forestry from the University of Washington. “It would be an honor to serve this community on council.” Plombon said in a statement. “I

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May 20 - 26, 2021 • thenorthernlight.com

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s Cheryl English, l., and Amy Finkbonner welcomed Blaine Senior Center members May 17. ”The board of directors have worked very hard on the remodeling of Blaine Senior Center. It’s more cheerful and we are looking forward to working with returning staff and new staff, as well as a new manager,” - Blaine Senior Center board of directors. Photo by Grace McCarthy

Boat catches fire at Blaine Harbor, no injuries

s The Sea-La-Vie caught fire May 16 at Blaine Harbor.

By Ian Haupt A boat at the Blaine Harbor Boating Center caught fire Sunday morning.

Photo courtesy BPD

On May 16 around 11:34 a.m., Blaine Police Department officers responded to a report of a boat on fire at Blaine Harbor, 235 Marine Drive, spokesperson Tami Bha-

chu told The Northern Light in an email. The officers arrived on the scene before North Whatcom Fire and Rescue (NWFR). They found a boat, Sea-La-Vie, smoking and a Port of Bellingham employee attempting to put out the fire with a garden hose. The officers began moving nearby bystanders away from the boat, Bhachu said. Near where the employee placed the garden hose was a burnt electrical chord, which appeared to be the start of the fire. NWFR fire chief Jason Van der Veen said it was an electrical fire. NWFR 61 and 63 arrived on the scene to put out the fire and found no one on board after searching the boat, Bhachu said.

Blaine and Bellingham residents admitted to hospital after Hannegan Road crash Two Whatcom County residents, including a 35-year-old Blaine man, were admitted to the hospital after a two-vehicle crash on Hannegan and East Hemmi roads. Around 6:14 p.m. May 13, 22-year-old Bellingham resident Mariah R. Javier was driving westbound on Hemmi Road when she ran a stop sign as she attempted to turn northbound on Hannegan Road, according to a Washington State Patrol (WSP) incident report. As a result, she hit a 35-year-old Blaine resident, who was traveling northbound on Hannegan Road, WSP reported. Once coming to a stop, Javier’s 2013 silver Hyundai Elantra partly blocked northbound Hannegan Road and the Blaine man’s 2007 black Chevrolet Silverado rolled off the roadway, according to WSP. WSP said both injured drivers were transported to PeaceHealth St. Joseph Medical Center in

Bellingham. WSP trooper Rocky Oliphant tweeted that Javier suffered life-threatening injuries at the time of the accident, but a spokesperson for Harborview Medical Center, where Javier later received care, said she was in satisfactory condition as of May 19.

WSP reported the Blaine man had minor injuries. Javier was not wearing her seatbelt, according to WSP. WSP and the Whatcom County sheriff’s office were investigating if Javier would be charged. The totaled vehicles had no passengers.

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The Northern Light • May 20 - 26, 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 Editor Grace McCarthy grace@pointrobertspress.com Reporter Ian Haupt ian@pointrobertspress.com Reporting Interns Sienna Boucher, Nolan Baker 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 48 Circulation: 10,500 copies

Circulation Independently verified by:

Next issue: May 27 Ads due: May 21

NWFR promotes lieutenant to captain in Birch Bay

s Northwest Fire and Rescue (NWFR) promoted Adam Smith as D Shift Captain at Birch Bay Station 63, which is located at 4581 Birch Bay-Lynden Road. Smith’s new job began May 17. Above, Smith and his family participated in a pinning ceremony at Laurel Station 69 on May 14. Photo courtesy NWFR

Letters 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. This is the final week of publishing student letters. The Editor: I find it funny that the people who use their right to free speech so proudly are the same people who believe others should be punished for using theirs. Take the case of Colin Kaepernick for example, where former President Donald Trump took a disliking to his peaceful protests during the national anthem. For those unaware, on August 26, 2016, Kaepernick sat during the national anthem in protest of police brutality. “I am not going to stand up to show pride in a flag for a country that oppresses black people and people of color,” he said to NFL Media. Many people thought this was or should

be against the First Amendment, which is false. Kaepernick’s protests were clearly not against any laws. He did not incite violence, nor did he cause harm. He simply stated an opinion through a small action; sitting down. As I stated before, Trump was one of the people who disagreed with Kaepernick’s actions. “I think it’s a great lack of respect and appreciation for our country and I really said they should try another country, see if they like it better. See how well they’ll be doing. See if they are going to be making $20 million being a second-string quarterback,” he said, according to sportingnews.com writer Tadd Haislop. Why would Trump of all people believe he should move out of the country, or be fired? On plenty of occasions, he’s spoken his mind no matter whom he would offend, and showed pride in our country having the First Amendment. Shouldn’t he fight for others to use their own freedom of speech? If you’re someone who often talks about your own viewpoint on political issues as you please, consider letting others do the

same. Camryn Garcia Blaine Middle School Blaine (See Letters, next page) Please send letters to letters@thenorthernlight.com no later than noon on Monday.

Corrections In an article titled “Hawkins, Higgins and Gill announce bids for Blaine City Council,” in the May 13 issue of The Northern Light, the article incorrectly stated the length of time in which Colin Hawkins has served on the city of Blaine’s public works advisory committee. Hawkins has been chairperson on the committee for the past two years and has served on the committee since 2015. In the same issue, an article titled “City council approves next steps for H Street annexation,” misattributed comments made by Deborah Coleman to Pamela Sweet. We regret the errors.

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 20 - 26, 2021 • thenorthernlight.com

Blaine Harbor Music Festival will return virtually in July By Grace McCarthy Blaine Harbor Music Festival will bring its eclectic mix of world-class instructors to teach youth – and even adults this year – in a newly designed online format July 12-17. “The joy of seeing student and faculty getting together and enjoying each other’s skill and everything they learn is plenty enough for me,” said Bryan Johnson, president of Pacific Arts Association, which organizes the yearly event. “We work hard for 51 weeks a year for that absolute glory where we can get together to share the love of music. It’s a very unique experience.” In a new addition this year, adults will be able to take lessons in select subjects such as composition, American popular music, songwriting and world music. No prior experience is needed for most classes, Johnson said. The rest of the classes will be geared toward students 12-20 years old, with the camp’s previous age limit of 18 raised to allow older students who missed the festival last year, which was canceled because of the pandemic, to attend. Students will need to audition for their music courses. Johnson said the arts association decided to host a virtual event to protect the Blaine community. “It was an empty summer last year. We toyed with the idea [of in-person] briefly but the idea of running the risk of infecting anybody trumped any desire to get out and do it,” Johnson said. Tuition will be lower because running a virtual festival is less expensive, Johnson said. The festival will charge $100 per class and $300 for unlimited classes, which is $195 less than the normal unlimited ticket. Attendees may take up to five classes per day. “It will all be interactive,” Johnson said. “Nothing will be canned.”

Letters ... From previous page

The Editor: Schools should lower requirements on dress codes. I understand the importance of preparing students for future jobs that may require uniforms, but shaming them for what they choose to wear is not acceptable. Dress codes target young girls, and it’s unacceptable. It is a girl’s First Amendment right to wear what she wants, as well as feel comfortable and safe. School should be a safe place for young girls, yet girls are being told that their bodies are the reason boys around them are misbehaving. Telling a girl what to wear in relation to “social” constructs is a violation of her rights; the “social constructs” being the expectation of modesty and purity in girls. An anonymous girl that attends

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.

Monday, May 24 5:45pm – Study Session: Planning Commission Interview

6:00pm – City Council Meeting Tuesday, May 25 3:00pm – Civil Service Commission Meeting

Thursday, May 27 6:00pm – Planning Commission Meeting

Monday, May 31 City Offices Closed – Memorial Day

s Nick Biello, a longtime saxophone instructor at Blaine Harbor Music Festival, will also work as the festival’s program director this year. File photo The festival will email participants a password for each Zoom class. A virtual concert, similar to the one usually in the G Street plaza, will be livestreamed at 1 p.m. every day on Zoom, which can be the festival’s website, blaineharbormusicfestival.org. The showcase concert will also be held on Zoom the evening of the festival’s last day, July 17. As for faculty, Johnson said many of the same familiar faces who have been gracing the festival for over a decade will be in attendance, as well as new international musicians who are able to attend now that the festival is virtual. New faculty includes Liam Watson, who is the festival’s previous head counselor and studying music in Seoul, South Korea. Nick Biello, a longtime saxophone instructor at the festival, will also work as the festival’s program director this year. “The faculty is a loyal bunch,” Johnson said. “They come back year after year after year. It’s as

much of a family affair as anything.” This year’s class offerings include masterclasses in jazz vocals, piano, guitar, drum, saxophone, brass and bass, among many others. The festival will celebrate its 21st year in 2021. In 2000, Bruce and Sandy Wolf started the festival in Blaine after running a similar camp in Fairbanks, Alaska with Ted DeCorso, who still works as the festival’s artistic director. Although he expects the 2022 festival to be in person again, Johnson said he is going to push to have virtual components so people all over the world may attend. “There are so many people who would be delighted to do this far away as teachers and kids have gotten used to doing virtual classes,” he said. Festival registration is now open. For more information and to register for the Blaine Harbor Music Festival, visit blainehar-

a high school in the United States recently posted a paragraph titled Is Her Mid-section Showing? on a wall at her school, and it read, “Women of all ages deserve to feel comfortable in their own skin and no one should have the right to tell her that by wearing those kinds of clothes, she is a distraction to the people around her. Doesn’t it make more sense to teach boys to keep their eyes to themselves rather than tell the girls to hide their bodies? ... I’m a 15-year-old girl. If you are sexualizing me, you are the problem.” That is one of the best ways I’ve heard a person explain it. If you think that girls and women are not mistreated when it comes to clothes, keep in mind that there are millions of girls that feel unsafe in their environments. By ignoring these girls, you are making the issue worse. Men and boys, please take the time to understand and fix this. It is a girl’s first amendment right to feel comfortable, while wearing

what she wants. Brianna McGee Blaine Middle School Blaine

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

bormusicfestival.org. The festival’s Facebook page, facebook. com/blaineharbormusicfest, is posting interviews with faculty who will be in attendance.

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

www.cityofblaine.com

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The Northern Light • May 20 - 26, 2021

s A U.S. Customs and Border Patrol vehicle sits parked in front of the current train inspection facility as a BNSF train is scanned for illegal narcotics, stowaways and suspicious cargo on May 18. CBP will be replacing the current scanner – just south of the Bell Road and Peace Portal Drive intersection – with a new, high-speed version that CBP says will reduce traffic delays at train crossings in Blaine and Birch Bay. Photo by Ian Haupt

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Train ... From page 1

While delaying residents on their way to work or school, these hold ups can also impact emergency vehicles response times. With the new system, with a proposed location about halfway between the border and Marine Drive, CBP officers will be able to inspect rail cars while in their vehicles so that stopping a detected train will not always be necessary, Reinhart said. The new scanners use linear accelerators to generate X-rays from electricity rather than radioactive isotopes, producing high-quality images that support faster and

more secure cargo inspections, according to the release. “Non-intrusive inspection technology is a force multiplier that allows CBP officers to safely and more efficiently process U.S.bound cargo,” William A. Ferrara, CBP Office of Field Operations executive assistant commissioner, said in the release. “The high-quality images produced by the new rail cargo scanners will enhance CBP’s efforts to interdict stowaways, deadly narcotics, and other contraband while facilitating the flow of lawful trade.” CBP’s 6.4 million non-intrusive inspections at U.S. ports of entry found about 470,000 pounds of illicit narcotics and $11.54 million in undeclared currency during 2020, according to the release. Reinhart said while trains will be able to travel 12 mph through the new scanners, it’s not required. And they don’t have to travel that fast through town either. He said the current speed of trains coming out of White Rock, B.C., is about 10 mph and trains slow to about 5 mph around the bend through town. Northbound trains, which do not require inspection, travel through Blaine at speeds upwards of 30 mph. While CBP does not have control over what speeds BNSF trains travel, Reinhart said the new scanner should reduce traffic delays and inconvenient train stops. Under the initiative, scanners will also be installed in Brownsville, Texas; Buffalo, New York; Calexico, California; Eagle Pass,

Texas; Eastport, Idaho; El Paso, Texas (a BNSF Railway and a Union Pacific Railroad crossing); International Falls/Rainer, Minnesota; Nogales, Arizona; Portal, North Dakota; and Rouses Point, New York. These 12 ports of entry, including Blaine, process about 60 percent of the rail cargo imported in the U.S., CBP reports. Stephen McKeon of Rapiscan AS&E, CBP’s contractor for the Blaine section of the project, told city council the new scanners will generate X-rays only when trains are present – scanning stops automatically after a train has passed through the scanner. Shield walls will also be installed on both sides of the tracks at the site to ensure community safety, he said. McKeon said construction and installation of the new scanner will likely take four to six months due to the constraints of working on an active railway. And with design and planning to finish, Reinhart said he expects the scanner to be fully installed and operational by this time next year, but he’s hoping it will be sooner. By installing a new, high-speed scanner, Reinhart said CBP hopes to right the wrong that was done in 2003, when the current system was installed, and amend the time residents have spent waiting at crossings. “CBP is committed to transparency with the community as well as the city to work alongside you and to address any issues you may have,” Reinhart told mayor Bonnie Onyon and council.

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.

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

May 20 - 26, 2021 • thenorthernlight.com

Blaine Food Bank founder Evelyn Bonallo remembered as dedicated By Sienna Boucher As the Blaine Food Bank approaches its 50th anniversary, founder Evelyn Bonallo, who died April 23, is remembered by volunteers for her dedication to feeding local families. Bonallo and priest Donald Walter started the food bank in 1971. Upon its establishment, the first Blaine Food Bank board of directors meeting was formed in the Blaine United Church of Christ’s basement, where they elected Bonallo to her longstanding position as food bank secretary. Richard Sturgill, one of the

food bank’s first board of directors, spoke highly of the over 40 years that he knew Bonallo. “You know, you see volunteers come and go throughout the years, but Evelyn, she stayed,” he said. Food bank operations manager Sally Church said she met Bonallo the day she started volunteering there nearly 20 years ago. Both Church and Sturgill described Bonallo as the matriarch of the food bank, all while she raised seven children. “She had been there from the start. There wasn’t much she hadn’t seen,” Church said. “There wasn’t much that would phase her.”

Even after enduring a stroke, Bonallo came back to the food bank and helped to make the switch from paper to electronic. “She introduced the food bank to the 21st century,” Church said. Church recalls Bonallo as being demure, yet strongly empathetic and kind. “She was smart and quiet. She rolled up her sleeves and got the work done,” Sturgill said, adding on to Church’s thought. It was years of hard work that earned her the 2012 Whatcom County Volunteer Award. In 2019 the Evelyn Bonallo/Jerry Bladies Food Bank Service Scholarship was formed, offering $500

Alexander awarded Educator of the Year

to students who have demonstrated excellent volunteerism in their community. “We miss her. It would be her dream to see the food bank fail from people no longer needing

it,” Church said. “She would like people to not have to face hunger.” Until then, her legacy will continue to feed the community.

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Call today for an appointment. s Ms. Susan Alexander, alongside superintendent Christopher Granger, holds a framed certification of recognition to attend the May 24 school board meeting where she will be presented with the 2021 Lynden/ Ferndale International Masonic Lodge’s Educator of the Year award for the Blaine school district. Alexander is a teacher at Blaine Middle School and has been with the district for seven years. Photo courtesy BSD

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A SHOT

COVID-19 vaccination gives us a chance for health, healing, and recovery.

Everyone 12 and older is eligible for the vaccine. 12-17 year olds must receive the Pfizer vaccine. Find a vaccine provider at: VaccineLocator.doh.wa.gov Make an appointment: Schedule with your healthcare provider or a Vaccine Locator provider. Or call the COVID-19 hotline at: 1-833-VAX-HELP (1-833-829-4357) for assistance.

Get vaccinated!

familycarenetwork.com

The Northern Light • May 20 - 26, 2021

Covid-19 in Whatcom County, by school district boundaries: Recent two-week case rates, cumulative counts and vaccinations Lynden Vaccination: 36.4 Case rate: 741 Case count: 1494

Blaine Vaccination: 49.2 Case rate: 210 Case count: 579 Ferndale Vaccination: 40.7 Case rate: 221 Case count: 1740

Nooksack Valley Vaccination: 28.5 Case rate: 298 Case count: 780

Meridian Vaccination: 46.8 Case rate: 455 Case count: 469

Mt. Baker Vaccination: 29.1 Case rate: 120 Case count: 472

Bellingham Vaccination: 60.3 Case rate: 112 Case count: 3062

s The case rate is the number of confirmed Covid-19 cases per 100,000 people over the past two weeks. Case count is the total number of confirmed Covid-19 cases since the start of the pandemic. Vaccination is the percentage of the population that has had at least one vaccine shot. Rates were updated May 15.

By Grace McCarthy Whatcom County Health Department officials say they are not considering greater restrictions if the county fails Phase 3 metrics, which the county currently meets. Governor Jay Inslee said in a media conference that all counties would enter Phase 3 on May 18 but local governments could impose tighter Covid-19 restrictions if counties needed it. Whatcom County Health Department director Erika Lautenbach said in an email to The Northern Light that although Whatcom County health officer Dr. Greg Stern has the authority to keep Whatcom County in Phase 2, the health department has not “entertained” the decision. Whatcom County must meet at least one metric to stay in Phase 3 – no more than 200 new Covid-19 cases per 100,000 in the past two weeks or no more than five Covid-19 hospitalizations per 100,000 people in the past week. Whatcom Coun-

ty was previously failing both metrics, but since May 10, is passing the number of Phase 3 hospitalizations. “The rise in hospitalizations has decreased and the number of cases has been levelling off, and we anticipate the case rate will go down further as has been the case in other counties in our region,” Lautenbach said. “We also continue to make progress on vaccination rates. We take hospital rates, case rates and trends, as well as vaccination rates, into account when deciding whether or not rolling back a phase would be effective or needed.” The majority of Covid-19 cases in Whatcom County come from people who are not fully vaccinated, according to the health department. Zachary Doobovsky, Whatcom County Health Department public health nurse, said the health department currently aggregates unvaccinated and vaccinated Covid-19 case rates in two-week (See Covid-19, next page)

ADVICE FROM THE P Q: Is now a good time to refinance?

Q: Will I have to pay the new

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A: It is true that Washington State passed a capital

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FINANCIAL ADVISOR

gains tax of 7%. But there are a few details that will keep most taxpayers from ever having to pay this tax. The first $250,000 of long-term capital gains are exempt from the tax. Additionally, real estate is exempt from the capital gains tax. These two aspects mean that most taxpayers will not have to worry about incurring the 7% tax. Each person’s situation is unique, if you feel you need advice, at Skyline Advisors we collaborate with your CPA to ensure your taxes are as efficient as possible.

A: Yes.

Interest rates are very low, and they should remain that way through the end of the year. Talk to a lender to see if it makes sense to refinance while considering your current rate and situation. Taking equity out for improveLoren Adkins ments, consolidation of bills, or refinancing to Senior Real Estate improve the Rate and Term on a current balLoan Officer ance, can all make sense. Plenty of options exNMLS# 643779 ist, and the process is more streamlined than Office: (360) 647-4425 you might think. You may not even need an Cell: (360) 303-8599 loren.adkins@peoplesbank-wa.com appraisal.

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Q: As a buyer, do I have a chance in this market? A:

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Yes, but this is not a market for the timid and undecided. In this historically unique seller’s market, with record low inventory, buyers must be ready to battle if they are going to compete, particularly in the median to low price range. Most homes are selling quickly with multiple offers at or above listing price. Buyers frequently get pre-inspections or waive inspections entirely. They are also disregarding low appraisals and paying the difference when financing. Many more skip financing and buy with cash. For buyers it can seem unfair and extremely frustrating. We understand and want to help you win the fight. Please call us for more information on how to win in this market. Julia Mullenix 360-820-2630

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Bellingham Real Estate Loan Center • 3100 Woburn St. • Bellingham WA, 98226

only half of my home is damaged in a fire, but the Q: Ifundamaged portion has to be demolished, is it covered? A:

The answer is, maybe. Most unendorsed insurance policies will only cover the damage caused by the covered peril (i.e. fire, wind, falling object, etc) and not the portion of the structure that is left standing. However, you can purchase coverage for the undamaged portion, as well as other valuable coverages via the ordinance or law endorsement on your homeowners, or businessowners, policy. Ordinance or law is an extremely important, and relatively inexpensive, endorsement to add to your policy. In addition to coverage for the undamaged portion of the structure, the endorsement provides for increased demolition/debris hauling and reconstruction expenses associated with new building codes.

Christine Roubidoux Personal Lines Manager

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May 20 - 26, 2021 • thenorthernlight.com (See Covid-19, previous page) intervals. The health department considers people fully vaccinated after their final vaccine dose. As of May 1, the case rate for unvaccinated people in Whatcom County was 289 cases per 100,000 people, while the case rate for vaccinated people was 19 per 100,000. Unvaccinated cases are not separated into people fully unvaccinated and people partially, Doobovsky said. The health department tracks Covid-19 cases by asking people with Covid-19 their vaccination status when interviewing them. The health department will then verify breakthrough cases, which occur when someone fully vaccinated tests positive for Covid-19, in Washington State Immunization Information System and an internal system the health department uses, Doobovsky said “Ultimately, it’s up to each of us to get ourselves vaccinated, if we haven’t yet, to help others who may have struggled to make an appointment, and then to help others get theirs,” said Jennifer Moon, Whatcom County Health Department public information officer, in an email to The North-

ern Light. “That may mean offering a ride, or helping to navigate online appointment processes, or having an open conversation with a friend or family member about their vaccination concerns.” Whatcom County has had a total of 8,683 confirmed cases of Covid-19 since the start of the pandemic and 345 probable cases (9,028 total cases), according to May 16 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 95. The percent of deaths per total confirmed cases is 1.1 percent. The Blaine school district increased in Covid-19 case rates, along with every school district except Bellingham and Ferndale. Blaine school district increased from 188 cases per 100,000 people last week to 210 cases per 100,000. The school district had 23 confirmed Covid-19 cases since last week. Lynden has the highest case rate at 741 cases per 100,000 people. The county will receive at least 600 first doses of vaccine this week, although this number is not final and is likely to increase. Last week, Whatcom County re-

ceived 8,860 first doses. About 38.8 percent of county residents are fully vaccinated and 48.4 percent have received at least one vaccine dose, according to the department. The department reports 88,496 county residents are fully vaccinated and 110,468 residents have received their first shot. Whatcom County is sixth in the state for its percent of population that is fully vaccinated, ac-

cording to DOH data. Statewide, 6,337,924 vaccine doses have been administered. About 37.5 percent of people in Washington are fully vaccinated and 47.2 percent have received one dose. Washington state has had 391,188 confirmed cases since the start of the pandemic and 32,862 probable cases (probable cases come from an antigen test). In all, 5,653 people in Washing-

A Special Section of published monthly on the 3rd Thursday of the month

Q: Does posture cause my back pain? A: Postural awareness is directly correlated with

Q: Now that I’m not wearing my mask as often and people see more than just my eyes, how do I clear up my skin problems? I look as though I have aged 5 years! Dr. Ken Stiver MD Medical Director 7854 Birch Bay Dr. Birch Bay In the beautiful Sand Castle Resort

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“maskne,” acne that is caused because the mask traps dirt and oil in pores. Mask wearing can also cause skin conditions such as rosacea. Restoring the skin’s barrier is key, this means cleansing and exfoliating. Start out with a good medical grade facial and then follow up with chemical peels. If it’s time to refresh your appearance, Botox or Juvederm will make a dramatic difference! Take 10 years off the appearance of your face.

md-wellness.com

Advice

from the

PROS

You are the expert and you have the answers for our readers... Your Potential Clients This monthly feature provides you an opportunity to speak to the Blaine, Birch Bay and Semiahmoo community and answer some of their specific questions or some general questions from your business that almost every new client wants to know. Your ad will be 5” wide x 4” tall, in full color with your photo and contact information plus your question and answer.

EXCLUSIVITY - Each business category is limited to one advertiser.

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ton with the virus have died as of May 17 and 23,370 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.

Image courtesy Whatcom County Health Department

PROS A: Wearing a mask frequently can cause

Jordan Crim, DPT Physical Therapist Capstone Physical Therapy

1733 H Street, Suite 400 Blaine, WA 98230 360-332-5111 www.capstonept.com

decreased back and neck pain. With sustained sitting posture (slouched sitting), there is a higher occurrence of low back pain. To improve your sitting posture be sure your feet are touching the ground and fully scoot to the back of the seat. Some people may also benefit from supporting the natural curve of the low back with a pillow or lumbar roll. These tips are generalized, and often the optimal sitting posture is patient specific. For an individualized assessment, as well as other techniques to help your neck and back pain, visit Capstone Physical Therapy, located in Birch Bay Square and in Blaine on H street. www.capstonept.com 825 Birch Bay Square Street, Suite 248 Blaine, WA 98230

360-366-5511

Blaine

Cordata

Lynden

Ferndale

Barkley

Q: Are employers eligible for additional COVID-relief with the Employee Retention Tax Credit (ERTC)?

A: The ERTC is a refundable tax credit that businesses can claim for qualified employee wages paid. There are significant changes to the ERTC that can benefit employers.

3 PPP recipients are now eligible to claim the ERTC if they meet the qualifications. Businesses can retroactively claim the credit for 2020. Wages cannot be used for both ERTC and PPP forgiveness, so tax planning is important when taking advantage of both. 3 The ERTC has been extended through 12/31/2021 and the credit increased drastically. Employers could qualify for a credit of up to $5,000 per employee for 2020, and $7,000 per employee per quarter in 2021. That is an annual maximum credit per employee of $28,000 in 2021! A business may qualify if it experienced a partial or full suspension of operations or if it experienced a specific decline in gross receipts for the quarter compared to the corresponding quarter in 2019. The reduction requirement in 2020 is 50% and 2021 is 20%. Contact us for more information.

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Pets & Pet Care

The Northern Light • May 20 - 26, 2021

Best Photo Clips, Tips and products for a healthier, happier pet!

Brush up on dental health Companionship, unconditional love and security are just some of the perks of pet ownership. People who bring pets into their homes understand that a certain commitment comes with becoming a pet owner. Pet owners recognize they need to provide food, shelter and basic healthcare for their pets, but they may not recognize the role dental health plays in helping pets be as healthy as possible. The American Animal Hospital Association notes that dental disease can start early in a pet’s life. By the age of three, most dogs and cats will have some level of dental disease. If dental disease is left untreated, pets may suffer from inflammation, infection and even chronic pain. The animal health and wellness site VetStreet says that more than 70 percent of cats and dogs over age four are affected by periodontal disease. Bacteria from poor dental health may spread to other organs and cause illnesses. Recognizing the signs of pet dental disease and taking steps to alleviate it can keep pets healthy. • Acknowledge bad breath. Bad breath is not something that comes with the territory of having a pet. Odor from a dog or cat’s mouth may indicate a problem such as stomatitis, a common fe-

line condition that causes inflammation to the oral tissues and gums. • Start brushing pets’ teeth. Brushing a pet’s teeth can promote good oral health and potentially prevent serious problems along the way. Always use a petsafe toothpaste, and talk to a veterinarian about a special dental diet. • Invest in other dental products. Seek products that receive the approval of the Veterinary Oral Health Council to help maintain a pet’s oral hygiene. Avoid products like synthetic bones, antlers and other animal bones, which can fracture an animal’s teeth. • Work with your veterinarian. Vets typically use X-rays to diagnose dental disease, as teeth may appear normal to the naked eye but still be diseased. Anesthesia is frequently used in dental evaluations and cleanings. It makes it safer and less stressful for the animal and the vet. Speak with your vet about the frequency of dental cleanings and care, asking any questions you may have about the safety and efficacy of anesthesia use. Pet owners must prioritize their furry friends’ oral health. Though often overlooked, pets’ dental health is integral to their overall health.

s Marshmallow enjoying the sunny weather.

s Archie getting comfortable for a mid-day snooze.

Photo by Breanna Buick

Photo by John Locker

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s Anika Figley’s pet Noodles, a one-and-a-half-year-old gecko, watching a show about noodles. Photo by Davene Figley

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May 20 - 26, 2021 • thenorthernlight.com

NEXT ISSUE: May 27

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NOTICE OF HEARING IN THE SUPERIOR COURT OF THE STATE OF WASHINGTON IN AND FOR THE COUNTY OF KING, JUVENILE DEPARTMENT IN RE THE DEPENDENCY OF: JERIKO RAYNE TAYLOR, DOB: 07/04/2012. NO: 21-7-00249-2 KNT. TO: * Mother, Kristine Danielle Syfers; Father, Joshua Ryan Taylor, and/ or anyone claiming parental/paternal rights or interest in the child and to All Whom It May Concern: On April 15, 2021, a petition for Termination was filed in the above entitled Court, pursuant to RCW 13.34.080 and/ or RCW 26.33.310 regarding the above named child, whose parents are *. [FOR FURTHER INFORMATION, CALL 253-372-5738, 8:00 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.] Said Petition will be heard on July 8, 2021, at the hour of 8:30 a.m., at Regional Justice Center Courthouse, Rm 1-L, 401 4th Ave North, Kent, WA 98032. Appearance at this hearing is required and may be in person or by telephone. Parties may appear by telephone by calling 206263-8114 and using the following PIN number to join the call: for Kent cases – 1216606#, before a judge of the above entitled court, at which time you are directed to appear and answer the said petition or the petition will be granted and action will be taken by the court such as shall appear to be for the welfare of the said child. DATED this 10th day of May, 2021. BARBARA MINER KING COUNTY SUPERIOR COURT CLERK BY: KAB, Deputy Clerk

IN THE SUPERIOR COURT OF THE STATE OF WASHINGTON IN AND FOR THE COUNTY OF WHATCOM In re the Matter and Estate of: MARIAN RUTH ALLARD, Deceased. No. 21-4-00354-37. 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. Date of First Publication: May 6, 2021 Personal Representative: Deborah Allard Riehl 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 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

IN THE SUPERIOR COURT OF THE STATE OF WASHINGTON IN AND FOR WHATCOM COUNTY In re the Estate of: ALICE BODIEN LARSEN, Deceased. No. 214-00107-37. NOTICE TO CREDITORS. Judge Robert E. Olson The Personal Representative named below has been appointed and has qualified 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 probated proceedings were commenced. The claim must be presented within the later of: (1) thirty days after the Personal Representative served or mailed the notice to the creditor as provided under RCW 11.40.020(1)(c); or (2) four months after the date of first publication of the notice. If the claim is not presented within this time frame, the claim is forever barred, except as otherwise provided in RCW 11.40.051 and 11.40.060. This bar is effective as to claims against both the decedent’s probate and nonprobate assets. Date of Filing of Notice to Creditors: May 19, 2021 with Clerk of Court: Date of First Publication: May 20, 2021 Name of Personal Representative: JEAN DARA LARSEN HILDEBRAND Attorney for Personal Representatives: 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 May 19, 2021. AVERY ELDER LAW, P.S. STEVEN D. AVERY, WSBA #35262 Attorney for Personal Representative JEAN DARA LARSEN HILDEBRAND www.averyelderlaw.com

IN THE SUPERIOR COURT OF THE STATE OF WASHINGTON IN AND FOR WHATCOM COUNTY In re the Estate of: MARY SHEILA HYATT, Deceased. No. 21-4-00379-37. NOTICE TO CREDITORS Judge Evan Jones The Personal Representative named below has been appointed and has qualified 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 probated proceedings were commenced. The claim must be presented within the later of: (1) thirty days after the Personal Representative served or mailed the notice to the creditor as provided under RCW 11.40.020(1)(c); or (2) four months after the date of first publication of the notice. If the claim is not presented within this time frame, the claim is forever barred, except as otherwise provided in RCW 11.40.051 and 11.40.060. This bar is effective as to claims against both the decedent’s probate and nonprobate assets. Date of Filing of Notice to Creditors: May 19, 2021 with Clerk of Court: Date of First Publication: May 20, 2021 Name of Personal Representative: JEAN ADAMS Attorney for Personal Representatives: 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 May 19, 2021. AVERY ELDER LAW, P.S. STEVEN D. AVERY, WSBA #35262 Attorney for Personal Representative JEAN ADAMS www.averyelderlaw.com

IN THE SUPERIOR COURT OF THE STATE OF WASHINGTON IN AND FOR WHATCOM COUNTY In re the Estate of: CAROLYN JEAN CALMAN, Deceased. No. 21-4-00401-37. NOTICE TO CREDITORS. Judge Evan P. Jones The Personal Representative named below has been appointed and has qualified 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 probated proceedings were commenced. The claim must be presented within the later of: (1) thirty days after the personal representative served or mailed the notice to the creditor as provided under RCW 11.40.020(1)(c); or (2) four months after the date of first publication of the notice. If the claim is not presented within this time frame, the claim is forever barred, except as otherwise provided in RCW 11.40.051 AND 11.40.060. This bar is effective as to claims against both the decedent’s probate and nonprobate assets. Date of Filing of Notice to Creditors May 19, 2021 with Clerk of Court: Date of First Publication: May 20, 2021 Name of Personal Representative: DEBRA MARLENE LUND Attorney for Personal Representative: 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 May 19, 2021 AVERY ELDER LAW, P.S. STEVEN D. AVERY, WSBA #35262 Attorney for Personal Representative DEBRA MARLENE LUND www.averyelderlaw.com

F I N D R E A L E S TAT E L I S T I N G S O N PAG E 1 2

The Northern Light • May 20 - 26, 2021

Real Estate

Bay Properties

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

Semiahmoo homeS, inc.

NW LUXURY REAL ESTATE AT A HIGHER LEVEL

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

7605 Birch Bay Drive #B, Birch Bay $750,000

LOCATED JUST MINUTES FROM THE BEACH...

LATITUDE 49!

TOES IN THE SAND!

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!

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.

10823 Halloran Road, Bow • $349,000 SUMMER IS CALLING!

Fantastic opportunity for Island ENJOY ISLAND LIVING! Living! Make this 1080 SF 2 BD, 1.75 BA doublewide MF home a getaway spot, or build a dream home - options are endless. 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 across the street from public park & 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 to create your vision. Inspections, surveys, permits are available at a huge value to new owner! Picture serenity!

Terry Conway • (360) 410-0503

CeCelia Breivik • (360) 303-8161

TUSCANY MEETS PNW = PARADISE!

RARE FIND!

The only true West facing waterfront vacant land available within VIEW, VIEW, VIEW! Boundary Ridge at Semiahmoo. 1.08 acre lot located on highly sought after street, with all utilities underground. Next to community beach access stairs on dead end street for ultimate in privacy. Build dream retreat & start enjoying incredible sunsets, beach lifestyle. Views to North of B.C., West to Strait of Georgia, South towards San Juan Islands. Opportunity is unique & with this high bank lot. Semiahmoo offers private marina, beaches, top rated golf & country club, tennis, pools, biking/walking trails & 4 star resort hotel.

One of a kind opportunity to own 4.9 acre property with private vineyard! 1+ acre producing vines plus 7 orchard trees with nuts, cherries, plums & apples! Outdoor features include 90x120 barn with 4 stalls, open 2+ acres for arena/multiple use, & seasonal creek. Greenhouse & raised garden beds. Mt. Baker views - or enjoy custom Italian oven/fireplace on patio. Single level 1708 SF 4 BD, 2 BA featuring 2018 kitchen & bath remodel, cedar 1/2 shake roof with 33+ years left, septic oversized w/20+ years & exterior paint on both the house and barn in 2020. Great equestrian estate!

NOW SOLD!

NEW

LIS

TIN

Cherish east and west facing YOUR OWN PRIVATE views from Mt. Baker to the San 50 FT DOCK Juan Islands from this 4164 SF 3 BD, 3.5 BA home. Enjoy the recently remodeled chef’s delight kitchen. Your boat awaits its own private 50 foot dock to take you out to the San Juan Islands and beyond. Bonus mother in law suite is fully equipped with kitchen, laundry, bath, bedroom and private entrance - or use for potential rental income. Enjoy all of Sandy Point’s amenities including: swimming pool, golf, tennis and community beach access! This home has it all!

BAY

MLS #1771406

VILL

AGE

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

1462 square feet

Birch Bay Village home. Built in 2008, but you would think it was built in 2021. 1462 sq. ft. of ultimate privacy and quality. One level home with 3 bedrooms, 1.75 bath, 2 car garage, rv parking, 8x16 outbuilding with concrete floor. See pictures at briansouthwick.com

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.

Listing your property?

see more pictures at www.briansouthwick.com

SOLD! SOLD!

C-33, 40’ Slip for $46,500 K-2, 36’ Finger Slip for $42,000

20+ acres on Kickerville Road $179,000

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

www.CallHugh.com

Rentals - Rooms FURNISHED ROOMS incl. amenities, NS, pet friendly starts at $600/mo. + deposit, references required, willing to credit for yard work. 360-332-3449. All All real real estate/rentals estate/rentalsadvertising advertisin this newspaper is subject to the ing in this newspaper is subject Federal Fair Housing Act of 1968 as to the Federal Fair Housing amended, which makes it illegal toAct anyamended, preference, which limitationmakes or discriminaofadvertise 1968 as it illegal based onany race,preference, color, religion, sex, handicap totionadvertise limitation or disfamilial status or national origin, or an intention crimination on race,limitation color, religion, to make any based such preference, or discrimination. This familial newspaper will or notnational knowinglyorisex, handicap, status accept advertisement for realany estate gin, or any an intention to make suchwhich prefis in violation of the law. Our readers are hereby erence, limitation or advertised discrimination. This informed that all dwellings in this newsnewspaper will not accept any paper are available on anknowingly equal opportunity basis. To complain of discrimination, call HUD toll-free advertisement for real estate which is inatvi1-800-877-0246.

olation 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.

FROM THE PROS Third week of every month

Active Seniors Second week of every month

Pet Care HOME&GARDEN Last week of every month

FREE

Market Analysis CALL ME...

Lisa Sprague

360.815.6638

briansouthwick@gmail.com

Semiahmoo Marina Boat slips:

ADVICE

Advertise Now! Call 360-332-1777 or email

Owner/Agent

Location, Location!

If you want to know what your home is really worth please, CALL HUGH 360.371.5800

First week of every month

Third week of every month

Thinking of

Call Lisa for a 9079 Salish Road • Blaine

Health&Wellness

SALWATER VIEWS ABOUND!

Julie Ward • (760) 522-2564

BIR

Advertise your business in these Popular Special Sections

4145 Saltspring Drive, Ferndale $1,150,000

Heather Taylor • (425) 785-5771

Ruth Skeete • (360) 358-5075

YOUR BUSINESS WITH OUR READERS

Carl W. R. Dufton • (360) 815-6637

7110 Valley View Road, Ferndale • $763,000

9027 Shearwater Road, Semiahmoo • $790,000

0 23,60 read t! h e l g i p L o pe rthern o The N CONNECT

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Rentals - Commercial

NELSON BUILDING 925 Ludwick Ave., Blaine

LEASE SPACES FOR:

Warehousing-Distribution Manufacturing or Retail Vehicle Storage Yards Near Truck Route & Shopping Mall Email or Call Don Nelson For Availability & Rates

360-305-0286

Retail/ Office Space

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.

FOR LEASE

Email nelsbldg@msn.com

Let visitors & locals know about your business?

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

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May 20 - 26, 2021 • thenorthernlight.com

Inslee ... From page 1

for it, he said, adding the news is recent and could be subject to change. The state is not considering vaccination passports at this time. People can download their Covid-19 vaccine information from wa.myir.net, take a photo of their Covid-19 vaccine card or get immunization information from their healthcare provider. “This will not end the masks but it will end the state telling you that you need to be masked.” Inslee said. No limit on vaccinated people at large events Also effective immediately, the state will not limit the number of vaccinated people at indoor and outdoor sports events, funerals, weddings, live performances and conferences. Cruise ships with no more than 250 passengers may sail if all crewmembers and 95 percent of passengers are vaccinated, according to the governor’s office. All counties in Phase 3 on May 18 Inslee also announced all counties in Washington will move to Phase 3 of the state’s Healthy Washington Roadmap to Recovery plan on Tuesday, May 18. All counties will remain in Phase 3 until June 30, but Inslee said local governments can keep restrictions on their counties if needed. U.S./Canada border Inslee said he’d like to see progress with opening the U.S./ Canada border in the upcoming months as vaccinations improve in both countries. The state secretary of health said he was told in a May 12 meeting with B.C. health officials that the province is receiving more vaccines.

Dining Guide

RECENT HOUSE & LOT PRICES

O B I T U A RY

Blaine, Birch Bay & Point Roberts APRIL 2021

DESCRIPTION

LOCATION

HIGHER END HOUSES $600,000 AND ABOVE: 1-story house with 1,226 SF, 1,106 SF basement, 3 BD, 2 BA, 8212 Quinault Rd, Blaine 200 SF balcony, 440 SF attached garage, 260 SF patio, built in 2003, .39 acres land. 2-story house with 1,772 SF, 2 BD, 2 BA, 520 SF attached 6843 Holeman Ave, Blaine garage, 795 SF deck, built in 2004, 63 feet waterfront; marine view, .27 acres land.

SALE PRICE $625,000

$950,000

2-story house with 3,236 SF, 1,184 SF basement, 4 BD, 3 BA, 484 SF built-in garage, 336 SF attached garage, 400 SF deck, built in 2005, 3.35 acres land.

9621 Dupree Dr, Blaine

$780,000

1-and a half story house with 2,301 SF 1,476 SF basement, 5 BD, 3 BA, 614 SF attached garage, 490 SF deck, built in 1996, marine view, .33 acres land.

5344 Canvasback Lp, Blaine

$989,000

Condo with 1,757 SF, 3 BD, 3 BA, built in 2007, waterfront; marine view. Grand Bay Resort On The Beach Condos.

#405, 7714 Birch Bay Dr, Blaine

$618,900

1-and a half story house with 1,884 SF, 4 BD, 2 BA, 200 SF patio, 2,532 SF storage, built in 1926, 9.85 acres land.

3524 Haynie Rd, Blaine

$600,000

1-story house with 1,336 SF, 1,080 SF basement, 2 BD, 3 BA, 8051 Quinault Rd, Blaine 302 SF balcony, 756 SF built-garage, 192 SF detached garage, built in 1997; territorial view, .21 acres land.

$610,000

1-and a half story house with 2,114 SF, 1,296 SF basement, 3 BD, 4 BA, 500 SF patio, 500 SF deck, 632 SF attached garage, built in 1996; marine and territorial views, .37 acres land.

5332 Canvasback Lp, Blaine

$900,000

1-story house with 2,073 SF, 2,031 SF basement, 3 BD, 3 BA, 493 SF balcony, 457 SF patio, 903 SF attached garage, built in 2005; marine and territorial views, .22 acres land.

8071 Makah Rd, Blaine

$1,145,000

Condo with 2,003 SF, 2 BD, 3 BA, built in 2020, waterfront; #202 9545 Semiahmarine views. Pacific Point Condominium. moo Pkwy, Blaine

$999,000

Condo with 2,003 SF, 2 BD, 3 BA, built in 2020, waterfront; #204 9545 Semiahmarine views. Pacific Point Condominium. moo Pkwy, Blaine

$999,000

Condo with 2,003 SF, 2 BD, 3 BA, built in 2020, waterfront; #205 9545 Semiahmarine views. Pacific Point Condominium. moo Pkwy, Blaine

$999,000

Condo with 2,273 SF, 2 BD, 3 BA, built in 2020, waterfront; #206 9545 Semiah- $1,249,000 marine views. Pacific Point Condominium. moo Pkwy, Blaine Condo with 2,003 SF, 2 BD, 3 BA, built in 2020, waterfront; #303 9545 Semiah- $1,229,000 marine views. Pacific Point Condominium. moo Pkwy, Blaine

Eileen Lillian (Nagy) Donaghy February 1, 1943 – March 9, 2021

Eileen passed away in Surrey, B.C. at the age of 78. She was born in Abbottsford, B.C. and lived on a farm with her parents, brother and sister. Eileen is survived by her husband of 41 years, Chuck Donaghy of Blaine; brother Allan (Bev) Nagy of Surrey, B.C.; sister Terri (Howard Flaer) Nagy, of Los Angeles, CA; niece Lisa; and dear friend Chuck Gardner of White Rock, B.C. She started in the banking business at an early age, working at Surrey Credit Union in Surrey, B.C. She moved to Blaine in 1994 and became a U.S. citizen. She continued working in the banking industry. She helped open Whatcom State Bank in Blaine and continued with Banner Bank until she retired. She also worked at the Cherry Point Refinery with CJ Donaghy Construction. Eileen loved to travel with Bunny Donaghy all over the world. She also enjoyed traveling with Chuck to Palm Springs and Arizona in an RV with their German shepherds. Eileen was an artist and loved gardening. She was involved in Whatcom County In Bloom and entered their contests. She loved her flowers. Eileen will be missed by many. A celebration of life will be announced at a later date.

BUSINESS & PROFESSIONAL

DIRECTORY

Proud supporters of the Blaine Community!

Condo with 2,003 SF, 2 BD, 3 BA, built in 2020, waterfront; #305 9545 Semiah- $1,229,000 marine views. Pacific Point Condominium. moo Pkwy, Blaine 1-story house with 2,488 SF, 2,491 SF basement, 3 BD, 2 BA, 590 SF patio, 590 SF deck, 700 SF attached garage, built in 1987, waterfront; marine view, .51 acres land.

9125 Great Blue Heron Ln, Blaine

$2,300,000

1 and a half story house with 2,700 SF, 4 BD 3 BA, 589 SF patio, 1,117 SF deck, 252 SF storage, 576 SF detached garage, built in 1989, waterfront; marine view, .21 acres land.

1617 Edwards Dr, Point Roberts

$1,225,000

1-story house with 2,527 SF, 2,109 SF basement, 3 BD, 4 BA, 440 SF patio, 294 SF balcony, 572 SF built-in garage, built in 2000; marine and territorial views, .48 acres land.

2117 Whalen Dr, Point Roberts

$870,000

1 and a half story house with 2,110 SF, 3 BD, 3 BA, 332 SF patio, 504 SF attached garage, built in 2006, .23 acres land.

5456 Tanager Ln, Blaine

2011 Large Business Year of Whatcom County Formerlyof1stthePropane

Keep Full Service • Budget Payment Plan • Tank Installation & Rental Family Owned and Operated Since 1929! Modern Equipment • Safety Checks • Locally Owned & Operated

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The Only Validated Auto Glass Company 360 332-3121 2163 Nature’s Path Way • Blaine in Whatcom & Skagit

Fill your bottles - Easy RV access

ouis’Auto & Residential Glass Counties.

We Guarantee Your Safety

$600,000

Spring Special!

Dinner on Us and90 a Can of Glass Cleaner Celebrating years!

with every windshield purchased and installed

New 1-story house with 1,711 SF, 3 BD, 2 BA, built in 2021, .20 acres land.

8671 Blue Grouse Wy, Blaine

$600,000

1-story house with 2,265 SF, 3 BD, 2 BA, 824 SF attached garage, 1,027 SF patio, built in 2002, .50 acres wooded land.

5474 Canvasback Lp, Blaine

$691,000

2-story house with 2,146 SF, 3 BD, 3 BA, built-in garage, built in 2021, .13 acres land.

9074 Sea Mist Ln, Blaine

$650,000

1-story house with 2,566 SF, 3 BD, 3 BA, 914 SF attached garage, 80 patio, built in 2018, .36 acres land.

5440 Wood Duck Lp, Blaine

$790,000

1-story house with 2,610 SF, 4 BD, 2 BA, 558 SF attached ga- 8920 Bald Eagle Dr, Blaine rage, 466 SF deck, built in 1987; territorial view, .31 acres land.

Windshield Replacement

BELLINGHAMFree Pick up & Delivery Bellingham 1512 N. State St. • 360-734-3840

758 Peace Portal • Blaine 360-332-4045

8703 Oertel Dr, Blaine

$789,280

1-story house with 2,582 SF, 3 BD, 3 BA, 574 SF attached garage, 704 SF deck, 200 SF storage, built in 1971, remodeled in 2011; 60 feet waterfront; marine and territorial views, .20 acres land.

5455 Tsawwassen Lp, Blaine

$1,325,000

COMMERCIAL PROPERTIES: New apartment building

COVERED/HEATED PATIO DINING DINING ROOM • TAPROOM

634 E St, Blaine Blue Grouse Wy, Blaine

$758,000 $420,000 $185,000

1.00 acres residential lot. Markworth Rd, Blaine

$205,000

.49 acres residential lot, waterfront; marine and territorial view. Whalen Dr, Pt Roberts

$210,000

Viking Foods Delivery, Online Take-Out Ordering, Table Reservations all at: WWW.THERUSTICFORKEATERY.COM

2.17 acres wooded lot.

West Rd, Blaine

5.46 acres wooded lot in Blaine. 4010 Holtzheimer Tl

442 PEACE PORTAL DRIVE • 360-332-4346

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1512 N. State St.

407 19th St.

1721 E. College Way

To Our Canadian Friends

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CALL NANCY AT 360-371-5168 CARPET • RUGS • UPHOLSTERY • TILE Serving Blaine, Birch Bay & Semiahmoo since 1973

Restaurant with 3,463 SF, built in 1978, .32 acres land. 1210 Third St, Blaine LAND: .24 acres residential lot; territorial view.

LYNDEN

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$650,000

1-and a half story house with 1,144 SF, 2 BD, 2 BA, 216 SF attached garage, 120 SF storage, built in 1973, 70 feet waterfront; marine view, 2.41 acres land.

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Counseling and Personal Coaching Transformational Hypnotherapy co-creating rapid change for personal growth

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The Northern Light • May 20 - 26, 2021

Sheriff’s Reports May 2, 5:51 p.m.: Motor vehicle non-blocking/non-injury on Anderson and Blaine roads. Driver arrested. May 2, 8:58 p.m.: Suspicious vehicle on Birch Bay-Lynden Road. May 3, 12:50 p.m.: Suspicious circumstances on Birch Bay-Lynden Road, Custer. May 3, 1:22 p.m.: Burglary on Birch-Bay Lynden Road. May 3, 1:29 p.m.: Domestic verbal on Haynie Road, Custer. May 3, 10:16 p.m.: Civil problem on Pine Tree Lane. May 4, 3:23 p.m.: Rape cold call on Arnie Road. May 5, 12:34 a.m.: Juvenile problem on Birch Bay Drive. May 5, 2:16 p.m.: Parking problem on Anchor Parkway. May 5, 3:03 p.m.: Domestic physical on Leeside Drive. May 5, 8:37 p.m.: Vehicle theft on Anderson Road. May 6, 10:30 a.m.: Harassment on Seavue Road. May 6, 5:41 p.m.: Domestic physical on Birch Bay-Lynden Road. Suspect arrested. May 7, 1:26 p.m.: Juvenile problem on Fawn Crescent Road. May 8, 5 p.m.: Suicidal subject on Treevue Road. May 8, 5:36 p.m.: Hit and run on Portal Way. May 8, 9:43 p.m.: Domestic ver-

bal on Creasey Road, Custer. May 9, 9:38 a.m.: Hit and run on Portal Way. May 10, 9:07 a.m.: Landlord tenant dispute on Alderson Road. May 11, 6:27 p.m.: Boating problem on Semiahmoo Parkway. May 12, 8:47 a.m.: Domestic verbal on Loft Lane. May 12, 8:48 a.m.: Suicidal subject on Loft Lane.

May 8, 2:13 p.m.: Vehicle collision involving city property on Hughes Avenue. May 8, 3:30 p.m.: Found wallet turned into officer. May 8, 11:57 p.m.: Dispute between two individuals over another individual on D Street. May 8, 11:57 p.m.: Individuals were trespassed from a property for life at request of property owner on D Street. May 9, 3:56 a.m.: Assist other agency on Blaine Road. May 9, 7:26 p.m.: Malicious mischief on Peace Portal Drive on Peace Portal Drive. May 10, 3:35 a.m.: Trespass complaint on Harrison Avenue. May 10, 12:34 p.m.: Trespass notice on Peace Portal Drive. May 10, 2:35 p.m.: Found cell phone on Marine Drive.

45. Blackbird 46. One point west of due south 47. Large beer 48. Third stomachs 49. Rare Korean family name 50. Hectoliter 51. Aquatic invertebrate 55. Where we live 57. Poked holes in 58. Partner to ways 59. __ Ann CLUES DOWN 1. Expressions of approval 2. Replace the interior of 3. Not awake 4. Roman numeral 7 5. Sun up in New York 6. Institute legal proceedings against 7. Bugs homeowners don’t want 8. Maltese-Italian composer 9. Very long period of time 10. Touchdown 11. Agents of downfall

12. Complacently or inanely foolish 16. Argentina capital Buenos __ 17. County in New Mexico 18. An electrically charged atom 22. New Zealand conifer 25. Type of brandy 27. Comments to the audience 28. Tears down 29. Gifts for the poor 30. More painful 32. Good friend 34. Lying in the same plane 35. Line in a polygon 36. Clouds of gas and dust 37. Norse god 38. Health care pro 40. Close tightly 41. One’s holdings 42. Became less intense 43. Wilco frontman 45. Woman (French) 48. Expresses delight 51. TV channel (abbr.) 52. Beverage 53. Unit of work or energy

May 10, 4:11 p.m.: Neighbor dispute on Bayview Avenue. May 10, 10:32 p.m.: Commercial alarm on Boblett Street. May 10, 11:13 p.m.: Verbal domestic on A Street. May 11, 11:31 a.m.: Suspicious circumstances on H Street. May 11, 8:19 p.m.: Missing person on Peace Portal Drive. May 11, 11:57 p.m.: Loose animal on A Street. May 12, 3:42 a.m.: Barking dog complaint on Martin Street. May 12, 3:53 p.m.: Found property on Blaine Avenue. May 12, 7:09 p.m.: Vehicle vandalized on 16th Street. May 12, 11:08 p.m.: Verbal domestic on Kingsley Avenue. May 13, 5:38 p.m.: Residential alarm on Shearwater Road. Report by Blaine Police Department.

54. Cleaning accessory 56. Dorm worker ANSWERS: THENORTHERNLIGHT.COM

Tides May 14 – 20 at Blaine. Not for navigation. 49° 0’ 0”N - 122° 46’ 0”W DATE

TIME

HEIGHT

TIME

HEIGHT

Fr 14 2:03 am 6.6

6:09 am 7.9

1:46 pm -0.8

9:38 pm 9.2

Sa 15 2:51 am 6.9

6:25 am 7.7

2:20 pm -0.7 10:26 pm 9.2

Su 16 3:49 am 7.1

6:37 am 7.4

2:58 pm -0.6 11:14 pm 9.2

Mo 17 5:03 am 7.0

Coming up Please wear masks and follow social distancing guidelines. Trivia at The Vault: Thursday, May 20, 7 p.m., The Vault Wine Bar and Bistro, 277 G Street. This week’s theme: Music. Info: thevaultwine.com. Bike Skills Course: Friday, May 21, 2–4 p.m., Birch Bay Activity Center, 7511 Gemini Street. Kids bring your bikes and learn safety skills, how to check your bike before you ride, helmet fit and more. Preregistration is encouraged at bbbparkandrec.org. Sponsored by Blaine-Birch Bay Park and Recreation District 2. Live Music at The Vault: Friday, May 21, 7 p.m., The Vault Wine Bar and Bistro, 277 G Street. Featuring: The Unknowns. Info: thevaultwine.com.

Police Reports

Crossword ACROSS 1. Most courageous 8. Insurance giant 13. Small trace left behind 14. In a way, signals 15. The same letter or sound at the beginning 19. The Great Lakes State 20. Engage in a contest 21. Drinks served to celebrate a birth (Spanish) 22. Manpower 23. Undivided 24. Strong, magnetic metal 25. People of Tanzania 26. Sorts 30. Cop car accessory 31. Trade 32. Sullen and ill-tempered 33. Distinctive practices 34. Motor vehicles 35. Electrodes 38. Polish river 39. Human feet 40. Make very hot 44. Toppin and Kenobi are two

May 12, 10:45 a.m.: Landlord tenant dispute on Birch Bay Road. May 12,11:14 a.m.: Fireworks on Sunset Drive. May 12, 6:44 p.m.: Watch for on Birch Bay-Lynden and Custer School roads, Custer. May 12, 9:20 p.m.: Threat on Birch Bay Drive.

6:49 am 7.1

3:40 pm -0.3

Tu 18 12:02 am 9.2

4:27 pm 0.1

We 19 12:45 am 9.2

5:20 pm 0.7

Th 20 1:22 am 9.2

8:19 am 5.1

6:18 pm 1.4

11:27 am 5.5

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. Live Music at the Rustic Fork: Saturday, May 22, 7 p.m., The Rustic Fork, 442 Peace Portal Drive. Featuring Wicked Timing on the back covered patio. Info: facebook.com/TheRusticForkEatery/. Sunday Breakfast: Sunday, May 23, 9 a.m.–noon, American Legion Post 86, 4580 Legion Drive. Serving eggs to order, biscuits and gravy, French toast, pancakes, ham or sausage, coffee, milk and orange juice. Adults $7.50, kids 6 and under $4. Open to the public. All proceeds support the American Legion and our veterans. Masks and social distancing required. Info: 360/371-7311. 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. Red Road to DC Totem Pole Journey Visit and Blessing: Tuesday, May 24, 3–6 p.m., Port of Bellingham, Granary Avenue, Bellingham. Created by Lummi Nation House of Tears Carvers, a totem pole will be on display plus local speakers, musicians, artisans, and a blessing by interfaith representatives. Info: redroadtodc.org. 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. What’s the Point? Virtual Beach Discovery Event: Thursday, May 27, noon–1 p.m. Learn from educators and naturalists about the best beaches to visit at low tide, local community science projects, and cool beach critters! For more information and registration: tinyurl.com/WTPinfopage. Sponsored by the Cherry Point Aquatic Reserve. Q & A Panel with Beach Naturalists: Tuesday, June 1, 6:30–7:30 p.m. Live beach event with a Q&A panel where you can ask our experts any questions you have regarding beach critters, the intertidal zone, and anything else that comes up for you as you explore the beach. Submit photos of species you want help identifying, our beach naturalists might be able to help! For more information and registration: tinyurl.com/WTPinfopage. Sponsored by the Cherry Point Aquatic Reserve. Seeds of Culture: The Portraits and Stories of Native American Women: Thursday, June 3, 7 p.m., Mt. Baker Theater, 104 N. Commercial Street, Bellingham. Melding powerful storytelling with video, photography and song, Matika Wilbur, expands on her experiences photographing Native American women from across the hundreds of sovereign nations she visited over nearly a decade. Free. Registration: mountbakertheatre.com/ online/article/seedsofculture. Sponsored by Whatcom Museum. Ongoing: Boys & Girls Club After School Care: Monday–Thursday until 5 p.m. Serving students in grades 1–6 at Blaine schools. Registration required weekly. Info: https://parentportal.whatcomclubs.org or contact the Club at 360/332-3008. Blaine Food Bank: 500 C Street. Open Mondays 9 a.m.–noon, Wednesdays 5–7 p.m., and Fridays 9 a.m.–noon. Delivery options available. Info:360/332-6350 or blainefood@hotmail.com. The Bridge Food Distribution Program: Fridays 3:30–5 p.m., The Bridge Community Hope Center, 4815 Alderson Road. Registration required at thebridgehope.com or call 360/366-8763. Volunteers welcome. The Bridge Clothing Bank Boutique: Open Wednesdays 3–5 p.m. and Fridays 12–5 p.m., The Bridge Community Hope Center, 4815 Alderson Road. Donations by appointment, call 360/366-8763. Blaine’s Market by the Sea: Saturdays, 9 a.m.–2 p.m., G Street Plaza. Featuring high quality arts and crafts vendors selling handcrafted merchandise. Info: cjsolomon07@comcast.net. 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 May 10 and 16, 0 inches of precipitation was recorded. The 2021 yearto-date precipitation is 12 inches. Temperature: High for the past week was 73°F on May 16 with a low of 43°F on May 11. Average high was 61°F and average low was 54°F.

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. 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.

Courtesy Birch Bay Water & Sewer Dist.

Submissions to Coming Up should be sent to calendar@thenorthernlight.com no later than noon on Monday.

May 20 - 26, 2021 • thenorthernlight.com

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s Snohomish County Sheriff’s Office requested Washington State Patrol (WSP) investigate a collision with a 2015 Tesla Model S and a patrol car in Arlington on May 15. The patrol car was partially blocking the road as a deputy investigated a one-vehicle crash. The Tesla struck the left side of the unoccupied patrol car. According to WSP, the driver of the Tesla said the vehicle was in auto-pilot mode and assumed the vehicle would slow down or move over on its own. The sheriff’s office issued the Tesla driver a ticket. WSP says regardless of technology equipped with the vehicle, it’s the driver’s responsibility to operate it safely.

Question: I’d like to know who has the right-of-way at an intersection with no stop signs. In this case, it’s an urban collector street that crosses a short local street with cul-de-sacs at each end. I have argued that the urban collector street has the right-ofway because it crosses a street with dead ends, so it doesn’t matter about the person to the right having the right-of-way. Answer: Sometimes what feels right in your gut doesn’t align with what’s actually in the law. I think you know where this is going. Before we get to the answer though, you mentioned that one road is an urban collector. Maybe we should be clear about what that means. For people who love to put things in categories, let me give you some buckets into which you can sort roads. The Federal Highway Administration and, by extension, our state, classify roads into groups, coded one through seven, based on their function (and thus called Functional Classification Codes): 1. Interstate; 2. Other freeways and expressways; 3. Principal arterial; 4. Minor arterial; 5. Major collector; 6. Minor collector; 7. Local. And since transportation trivia is always a hit at social events, you might be interested to know that prior to 2010, each of those categories was also sorted into urban and rural. The main factor determining how to classify a road is the character of service they provide. Do they serve a neighborhood? Do they get you from a neighborhood to a main road? Do they carry more volume and take you longer distances? Are they higher speed and limited access? Although there’s a bit more involved, you could get pretty close on the classifications just by answering those questions. If you want to know for sure, you can check the Washington State

Department of Transportation’s functional classification map. What does all that have to do with the original question? As it turns out, not much. Right-of-way mostly isn’t determined by the functional classification of a roadway. In an uncontrolled intersection (that’s not an intersection rebelling against its parents, it just means it doesn’t have any stop or yield signs) drivers are to yield to other vehicles already in the intersection. When two vehicles arrive at an intersection at the same time, the driver on the left yields to the vehicle on the right. And a driver making a left turn yields to a vehicle approaching from the opposite direction, which is in the intersection or close enough to constitute a hazard. The status of a road as local or collector doesn’t come into play. I used the word “mostly” earlier, because the law does state that when a non-arterial road meets up with an arterial, drivers on the non-arterial road are to yield the right-of-way to drivers on the arterial. However, you’re not expected to know instinctively which road is which. The rightof-way is clarified by use of a stop sign on the non-arterial road. While not exactly an uncontrolled intersection, there is one other instance I’m aware of when a driver has to yield without a stop sign: When an alley intersects with a roadway, the driver in the alley yields to all vehicles approaching on the roadway. In your question you said, “I have argued ...” which implies that you’ve had this debate with someone. In the interest of increasing driver knowledge, maybe you should share this article with them and let them know they’re right. On the other hand, in the interest of self-pride, maybe you want to keep this information to yourself. I’ll leave that for you to decide. Doug Dahl is a manager with the Washington Traffic Safety Commission, Region 11 and publishes TheWiseDrive.com.

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The Northern Light • May 20 - 26, 2021

RFA ... From page 1

asked voters to increase their levy rate since 2009. For WCFD4, it will be the first vote to increase levies since 1994. For residents of WCFD4, which serves the north side of Lake Whatcom, this will mean a change from $1.03 ($0.82 base levy plus a $0.21 Emergency Medical Service levy) per $1,000 APV to $1.45. With this increase, however, residents will no longer have to pay the $0.21 EMS levy. NWFR residents could see a $0.30 increase from today’s $1.15, which the fire district’s website described as, “insufficient to maintain current service levels or to meet future demands.” NWFR board chair Bruce Ansell said that Whatcom County’s growing population, coupled with rising operational costs, have made a levy increase crucial to continue providing high-quality service to their residents. “The cost of fuel has gone up. The cost of apparatus has gone up. The cost of everything that we do has gone up, and now we’re experiencing a significant growth in our population, and a significant growth in our demand for service,” Ansell said. NWFR, which provides service to roughly 38,000 residents in Blaine, Birch Bay, Semiahmoo and unincorporated Whatcom County surrounding Lynden, says on its website that it responded to 3,679 calls in 2020, an increase of over 52 percent

since 2011, while operating on the same budget. “Long story short,” Ansell said. “We need to lift the lid.” Interlocal extension buys time for RFA negotiations In a May 11 media release, the two districts announced they were signing a new interlocal agreement for NWFR to continue providing operational and logistical services for WCFD4 after January 1, 2022. The original agreement, which has been in place for nearly a decade, was set to expire on December 31, 2021. The agreement to extend the interlocal agreement another year was done as a last-minute stopgap to continue providing adequate service after extensive talks for the two districts to form into one larger regional fire authority collapsed in April. A regional fire authority means both districts would combine into one jurisdiction, governed by one board of commissioners, and funded by the same tax levy. RFAs have been established around the state, like the Valley Regional Fire Authority, which combined fire departments from Auburn, Pacific and Algona into one cohesive service in 2007. NWFR and WCFD4 were in talks to have a RFA vote ready for the August 3 primary elections, but planning fell through after NWFR backed out due to what NWFR chair Bruce Ansell called, “a trust issue” between leadership in the district boards. In an April 19 media release announcing NWFR’s decision to halt pursuing the combined dis-

s Whatcom County Fire District 4 and Whatcom County Fire District 21, otherwise known as North Whatcom Fire and Rescue, will not be pursuing a Regional Fire Authority this year. Image courtesy Whatcom County Geographic Information System

trict, NWFR cited “cultural and strategic differences between the two fire commissions” that made negotiations wrought with challenges. The resignation of former WCFD4 chair Dave Hanson in early May also meant that talks would be forced to stall until new commissioner elections were held in November. “We wanted to put the RFA vote on the ballot this year,” Ansell said in a statement. “But with the resignation of District 4’s former board chair, that work will have to wait until 2022.” In a special board of commissioners meeting on May 3, Hanson said he fully supported the

regional fire authority concept, but added, “I do not feel, sitting in my position as chair, that I was in the best position to help continue that move forward.” Mark Lann, the newly elected board chair for WCFD4, said his first order of business was salvaging the relationship between the two districts and restarting the regional fire authority conversation. “Bruce and I, again, have committed to restarting those RFA talks. That’s our goal, that’s his goal, that’s my goal,” Lann said. Even with leadership in agreement between the two districts, Lann admits there are still hur-

dles to come in the process, one of the largest being district elections this upcoming November. WCFD4 has all three of its board seats up for election, and NWFR has two of its five seats up for election. Without an assurance of who will be leading these fire districts come 2022, Lann said they were wary of restarting talks too soon. “Unfortunately, time was not on our side,” Lann said. “But once we get past the August election and November election for commissioners, if I’m still here, that’s going to be my number on goal – getting the RFA done.”

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