July 15 - 21, 2021
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Splash Days are back for the kids, page 5
Restaurants struggle with staffing, page 6
PRSRT STD U. S. Postage PAID Permit NO. 87 Blaine, WA 98230
CAP clothing bank reopens July 19, page 10
August primary Runners race from Peace Arch Park ballots mailed July 14 By Grace McCarthy
(See Election, page 13)
s Teams set to tackle the Ragnar Road Northwest Passage, a 200-mile relay running race from Blaine to Langley, send off their first runners at Peace Arch Park July 9. See more photos on page 4. Photo by Ian Haupt
City council amends 2021-22 budget to include federal funds, intent to fix sewer pipes By Grace McCarthy Blaine City Council unanimously voted 6-0 during the July 12 meeting to amend the city’s 2021-22 budget to include federal aid and commit $6 million to fixing the East Blaine sewer system in 2022. Councilmember Charlie Hawkins was absent for the vote. The city of Blaine will receive over $1.5 million in American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funding to help offset revenue the city lost due to the pandemic during 2020
and 2021. Congress passed the $1.9 trillion ARPA in March to help local governments with its $360 billion Coronavirus State and Local Fiscal Recovery Act Fund. The money will be delivered in two tranches: The first payment of $782,591 was delivered in late June and the next payment of the same amount is expected by mid-2022. The U.S. Department of Treasury requires ARPA funds be used to help close the gap for revenue lost during the pandemic. City officials estimated the city of
Blaine and Birch Bay projects receive grants By Grace McCarthy Two Blaine projects have been greenlighted, thanks to recent grants the state allocated to the Blaine-Birch Bay Park and Recreation District 2 (BBBPRD2) and the city of Blaine. Washington state’s Recreation and Conservation Funding Board announced 342 grants totaling $164 million to go toward recreation, conservation and to protect forests and farms. The competitive grants, announced June 30 by the state recreation
and conservation, are given every two years and were given from 10 state recreation and conservation grant programs. “These grants are fundamental to keeping Washington the beautiful state it is,” governor Jay Inslee said in a statement. “The funding comes from state and federal sources and is invested in hundreds of projects to give our kids places to play, ensure our food is grown close to home and keep our green spaces healthy for wildlife.” Of the $4,889,260 awarded in Whatcom County, about $1 million went toward two
Blaine and Birch Bay projects. Blaine Marine Park The Aquatic Lands Enhancement Account (ALEA) granted the city of Blaine $500,000 for revitalizing the Blaine Marine Park through preventing erosion, creating lookout access and habitat for wildlife. The city of Blaine will give $300,000, which had already been set aside for the project, to complete the project’s proposed restoration cost of $800,000. (See Grants, page 15)
Blaine lost $745,170 total during 2020; $404,000 in general revenue, $222,400 in street revenue and $118,000 in lodging revenue. Proposed ARPA allocations were presented to council in late April and then approved unanimously 6-0, with councilmember Eric Davidson excused, during the June 28 city council meeting. The city’s budget was amended to account for the new-found money during the July 12 (See Budget, page 6)
INSIDE
The Whatcom County Auditor’s Office mailed August 3 primary election ballots to voters July 14. The ballots should be delivered by Friday, July 23, but if they’re not, Whatcom County auditor Diana Bradrick says people should contact the auditor’s office for a new ballot. Primary ballots have a fair number of offices in Whatcom County up for election including Blaine City Council and Whatcom County Council. North Whatcom Fire and Rescue, also known as Fire Protection District 21, has a ballot measure for a property tax levy. Bradrick said the year following a presidential election typically yields a lower voter turnout, but she hopes voters will follow the record-breaking voting trend of 2020. “Please vote,” Bradrick said. “Return your ballot and get it returned on time. You don’t have to vote for everything.” People are now allowed into the auditor’s office, previously closed because of Covid-19, in the Whatcom County Courthouse at 311 Grand Avenue, Suite 103, in Bellingham. At the auditor’s office, people may register to vote, update registration and get a replacement ballot. Although people don’t need to schedule an appointment, the auditor’s office recommends people either call or email the office before visiting. Masks and social distancing are required. The auditor’s office will be open weekdays from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. July 14 to Monday, August 2 and from 8:30 a.m. to 8 p.m. Election Day on Tuesday, August 3. A voters’ pamphlet with candidate information was mailed to households July 12. Primary ballots need to be mailed and postmarked by August 3 or placed in a ballot drop box by 8 p.m. August 3. Drop boxes are located at Blaine Library, Custer Elementary School and the North Whatcom Fire and Rescue parking lot at 4581 Birch Bay-Lynden Road.
Coming Up . . . . . 14 Classifieds . . . . . 11 Letters . . . . . . . . . 4 Police . . . . . . . . . 14 Tides . . . . . . . . . . 14
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This Week’s FLYERS
Rite Aid
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The Northern Light • July 15 - 21, 2021
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Blaine musician to release 5 albums in 2021
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s Gina Williams will release five albums in styles ranging from classical to Caribbean pop.
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July 26-30, 2021 9-11:30am Christ Community Church 4310 H Street, Blaine Ages info: (360) 332-4392 5-12 yrs cefwhatcom.org to register
Fridays, July 16 & 30 12:30–2:30 pm • 3rd & Martin Streets KIDS BEAT THE HEAT WITH FIRE HYDRANT SPRINKLERS! Street party includes Sugar Shack ice cream truck & BBBPRD2 will be serving up hot dogs and chips. (Small) Kids must be supervised. Shoes recommended.
Info:bbbparkandrec.org
360-332-8610 / REGISTER@CEFWHATCOM.ORG Birch Bay Chamber of Commerce Presents
7th Annual
Rollback Weekend George Rodriguez and Gabriela Ramírez Michel; La Peyotera (Mono); Ceramic, wax, fiber.
& 38th Annual
Title vector:
An exhibition by George Rodriguez in collaboration with 13 Mexican and ChicanX/Chicane artists Now showing through Oct. 24, 2021 Thursdays – Sundays, noon – 5pm Lightcatcher building | 250 Flora St. www.whatcommuseum.org
Sand Sculpture Competition July 23-25
Friday, July 23 • around 9 pm, gates open at 7 pm Dive-in Movies at the Waterslides $20/car • FREE popcorn! Saturday, July 24 • 11 am-1:30 pm Bicycle & Golf Card Poker Run Saturday & Sunday, July 24 & 25 • 9 am-4 pm Sand Sculpture Competition Judging at 2 pm • Prizes! Sunday, July 25 • 8 am-1 pm Rollback Car Show Along Historic Birch Bay Drive check in behind the Visitor Center. Registration $5 in advance, $10 day of, while space allows Vendors, activities & more at Birch Bay Library Property, 7968 Birch Bay Drive
Birch Bay Chamber of Commerce & Visitor Information Center
Tickets, Registration & More Info:
Birch Bay birchbaychamber.com/events Chamber of Commerce & Visitor Information Center
Blaine musician Gina Williams is back and bolder than ever, with a commitment to release five new albums before the end of 2021. The five self-produced albums feature everything from classical to Caribbean music. “Take All of Me” is a gospel album slated to be released July 30; “Touch Down” is a Caribbean pop album expected August 27; “We Need To Love” is an electronic album expected September 24; and “Toxic Love” is a rock album set for an October 29 release. Williams’ classical album, “The Trilogy Part II” was released late June. “I thought I would lead by example,” Williams said. “Last year I had an epiphany. I realized I’ve been doing everything the way I’ve been told and it suddenly occurred to me I’d be confusing people. I’m done with being cliché. I’m not a cliché girl.” Williams holds a master’s degree in concert piano from the University of Alberta and has performed all over the world. Williams said she recorded some parts of the albums in Washington state, Ukraine and Vancouver. Music naturally comes to Williams, who will immediately start writing down what she hears in her head to create melodies that relate to what she’s experienced in her life, from a bad relationship to a relaxing beach day. “It keeps my brain activated,” Williams said of working on five albums simultaneously. “It’s like being an actor and taking on different roles or walking in someone’s shoes for a while. It feels good.” Each album has 10 songs, except for the classical album “The Trilogy Part II,” which features 21 tracks. While no future concerts are set yet, Williams said she wants her music to bridge gaps between people who normally don’t listen to music together. “I want people to know they’re not alone and these albums are something I think they’ll appreciate,” she said. “I’ve been through so much. I feel like I’ve lived so many different people’s lives and I think my music will be a sense of encouragement.” For more information on Gina Williams’ music and to purchase music, visit her website at ginawilliams.com.
July 15 - 21, 2021 • thenorthernlight.com
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Covid-19 in Whatcom County, by school district: Recent two-week case rates, cumulative counts and vaccinations Blaine Vaccination: 59.4% Case rate: 74 New cases: 6
Ferndale Vaccination: 55.6% Case rate: 67 New cases: 18
Lynden Vaccination: 45% Case rate: 51 New cases: 6 Meridian Vaccination: 56.4% Case rate: 0 New cases: 0
Nooksack Valley Vaccination: 39.8% Case rate: 61 New cases: 2 Mt. Baker Vaccination: 39.7% Case rate: 68 New cases: 4
Bellingham Vaccination: 68.9% Case rate: 23 New cases: 14
s The case rate is the number of confirmed Covid-19 cases per 100,000 people over the past two weeks. New cases are the total number of confirmed Covid-19 cases in the last week. Vaccination is the percentage of the population that has had at least one vaccine shot. Rates were updated July 10.
By Grace McCarthy On July 12, Whatcom County reached its long sought-after milestone to have 70 percent of residents 16 and older become fully vaccinated. This comes as the first confirmed case of the Delta variant was detected in the county, according to a July 7 Washington State Department of Health (DOH) report. The county is the fourth in Washington to meet the 70-percent mark for that age group, according to the Whatcom County Health Department. “By working together, Whatcom County has reached this critical milestone for community health and economic recovery,” Whatcom County executive Satpal Sidhu said in a statement. “We offer our thanks and gratitude to our health care providers who have given over 224,000 doses, our businesses who offered to serve as clinic locations and who provided incentives, and the countless volunteers who stepped up to help with vaccination. This achievement wouldn’t have been possible without them.” In a media release, health department officials urged people 12 and older to continue getting
vaccinated to protect the community against Covid-19 variants. This will help hospitalization rates stay low as the Delta variant is detected in Whatcom County, the health department said. Health professionals consider the Delta variant, detected in India last year, to spread more rapidly than other variants. The variant was first confirmed in Washington state in April. Whatcom County has had a total of 9,593 confirmed and probable cases of Covid-19 since the start of the pandemic, according to July 12 DOH data. The county had two deaths in the past week, making its death toll 105. The county has had 483 hospitalizations since the start of the pandemic. PeaceHealth St. Joseph Hospital is treating three people with confirmed Covid-19 cases, according to PeaceHealth data. Covid-19 case rates increased in Ferndale and Mount Baker school districts, while Lynden about halved its case rate to 51. Blaine school district decreased from 95 to 74 cases per 100,000 people last week. The school district has had six confirmed cases since last week. Meridian remains with no cases for the sec-
ond week in a row. As of July 11, 54.5 percent of all county residents are fully vaccinated and 5.3 percent are either waiting for their second dose or for the two weeks after receiving their last vaccine dose, according to the department. The department reports 124,271 county residents are fully vaccinated and 12,115 are in the process of becoming fully vaccinated. Statewide, 7,964,881 vaccine doses have been administered. Right now, 51.3 percent of the state’s total population is fully vaccinated and 60.1 percent of people eligible for the Covid-19 vaccine are fully vaccinated. Washington state has had 457,814 confirmed and probable cases since the start of the pandemic (the 38,211 probable cases came from an antigen test). In all, 6,022 people in Washington with the virus have died and 25,950 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.
With businesses opening, here is what’s happening with government meetings By Emily Feek As state Covid-19 restrictions lift, some virtual meetings are returning to in-person settings. Here’s what to know about local government meetings: • Blaine City Council: Meetings are held virtually via Zoom. Meeting link and more information available in the meeting agenda posted to the city council website at ci.blaine.wa.us/327/city-council. The city council has not yet decided when it will return to in-person meetings and if remote meetings will be an option then.
• Blaine school district: Meetings are held via Zoom and in person at the school district office at 765 H Street every fourth Monday of the month at 7 p.m. Up to five public observers can attend in the board room, with overflow seating in the middle school cafeteria. Meeting information, including Zoom links, is available at bit. ly/3ecBHfb. • Whatcom County Council: Meetings are held virtually. Information is available at whatcomcounty.us/joinvirtualcouncil. The council is still deciding on when to return to in-person meetings
and if it will continue remote meetings. • North Whatcom Fire and Rescue: The next meeting on Thursday, July 15 will be held both in-person with no restrictions on capacity at Station 61, 9408 Odell Road, and livestreamed on YouTube. The livestream is accessible at nwfrs.com. • Port of Bellingham: Meetings are held in person at 1801 Roeder Avenue in Bellingham, via Zoom and livestreamed on YouTube at youtube.com/user/portbellingham. Up to 25 public observers can attend in person.
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4
The Northern Light • July 15 - 21, 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.
Ragnar is back!
Publisher & Managing Editor Patrick Grubb publisher@pointrobertspress.com Co-publisher & Advertising Director Louise Mugar lmugar@pointrobertspress.com
s With names like “Long Distance Relay-tionship,” “Sleeveless In Seattle” and “Strangers with Candy,” a total of 190 teams competed in the Ragnar Road Northwest Passage, a 200-mile relay running race. Teams sent off their first runners in an interval wave start July 9 at Peace Arch Park and finished the next day in Langley. The overall winning time was nearly 22 hours. Photos by Ian Haupt
Letters
Editor Grace McCarthy grace@pointrobertspress.com Reporter Ian Haupt ian@pointrobertspress.com Reporting Intern Emily Feek 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 XXVII, No 5 Circulation: 10,500 copies
Circulation Independently verified by:
Next issue: July 22 Ads due: July 16
The Editor: I support Jennifer Plombon for Blaine City Council Ward 3 Position 6 seat. As an early resident of Semiahmoo in the 1990s, I chose to relocate back to Semiahmoo upon retiring and make my home here once again. I have seen the changes with significant development and population growth in the Blaine area and am impressed by the effort and improvements made to restore, protect, and preserve the fragile coastal marine environment and natural beauty. Jennifer Plombon’s record of community service combined with her career as a nurse, a degree in forestry and a keen interest in wildlife, makes her an outstanding candidate to serve our community. Jennifer will be an important asset to the city council to create vision and work to protect our beautiful environment, which promotes tourism, supports small business and enhances the quality of life here for us all. Margaret M. Burton Blaine
The Editor: In last week’s issue of The Northern Light newspaper, I read about three children being rescued from a hot car. It just broke my heart to read that article. I just don’t understand how can anyone leave their children in a 111-degree car. If this is not negligence, then what is it? That woman was told by the officer to give her three children fluids immediately. Wow! What a concept. If a dog were left in that car, probably, he would have had more rights than the children. Where is the justice here? One offense could be the cause of injury or death. Maybe next time that woman won’t be so lucky. The younger the children are, less control over their body heat they have. A state can prosecute a parent or guardian for endangering the health of a child left in an unattended vehicle. A court can apply general abuse and neglect laws. Just a reminder: Please leave your kids at home or take them inside the store or
wherever you are going. Jocelyne Harsch Blaine The Editor: We want to express our gratitude to all of the people who have served on the frontlines in essential services during the past 15 months. As we near the end of what has been a challenge for all, it is easy to slip into our ‘old normal’ once again and forget the sacrifices made by so many. We will not forget. We will not forget healthcare workers who risked their lives daily to care for others. We will not forget first responders who were always there when needed. We will not forget CBP who kept the supply chain open to provide us essential goods, or truckers who transported those goods. We will not forget construction workers, (See Letters, next page) Please send letters to letters@thenorthernlight.com no later than noon on Monday.
Civic Meetings Birch Bay Water & Sewer District: Second and fourth Thursdays, 4 p.m., district offices, 7096 Point Whitehorn Road, Birch Bay. Info and Zoom meeting link: bbwsd.com. The July 22 meeting is canceled.
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.
July 15 - 21, 2021 • thenorthernlight.com
Letters ... From previous page
plumbers, electricians, or heating and refrigeration folks who kept our homes and businesses running smoothly. We will not forget grocery workers who worked tirelessly to keep our pantries stocked, the agricultural and food processing workers who kept our country fed or the manufacturing workers who provided us with much-needed goods. We will not forget educators who re-defined teaching, or childcare workers who offered families respite. We will not forget USPS that kept our mail coming, and provided a sense of normalcy to our lives, or the delivery drivers who brought our online purchases. We will not forget those in social services who were there to help folks in need. We will not forget public trans-
portation workers or the media who kept us informed. We will not forget gas station workers, public service workers, telephone and utility workers and service workers. We will not forget the ministries that offered people peace and hope through faith. And we will not forget volunteers. These folks, and forgive me for omissions, put themselves at risk every day to help others, and to keep our country running. We have all had a difficult 15 months. Imagine how much more difficult it would have been without the courage and dedication of these folks. We, at Blaine Food Bank, are truly humbled and grateful for your service. You have redefined the word hero. You may not have capes, or be able to fly, but you are real-life superheroes. Sally Church, on behalf of Blaine Food Bank volunteers Blaine
Splash Days on July 16 and July 30 CITY OF BLAINE s Splash Days will take place July 16 and July 30.
By Emily Feek Blaine-Birch Bay Park and Recreation District 2 is bringing back Splash Days this summer to help kids beat the heat. Splash Days will be held on two Fridays, July 16 and 30, from 12:30 to 2:30 p.m. on Third Street next to Loomis Hall. The Blaine Public Works Department will shut down part of the street
File photo
and attach sprinklers to fire hydrants for kids to play in. The parks and recreation district is hosting the free event in celebration of Park and Recreation Month. It will be serving hot dogs and chips for attendees, and the Sugar Shack ice cream truck will also be on site. For more information, contact activity coordinator Kaileigh Hubbard at 360/656-6416.
Bellingham nature camp still accepting young campers Is learning about salmon, playing nature games or using imagination to create crafts and stories your child’s thing? If so, outdoor nonprofit Nooksack Salmon Enhancement Association (NSEA) is still accepting 4- to 6-year-olds at Camp Keystone, a weekly summer camp in Bellingham at 3057 E Bakerview Road. The camp cost $200 per week. Camps started June 21 and will continue into the week of August 16. Families can sign their children up for one week or the entire summer. Each week has a new nature theme, from water to
trees. Camp runs from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. every weekday, providing the opportunity for children to let their imaginations run wild as they do hands-on exploring of nature, create crafts and learn about the environment. Scholarships are available depending on funding, and can be applied to during registration. To register for the camp, visit bit.ly/3ho4AqG. For more information, email Nathan at nzabel@n-sea.org, call 360/312-3094 or visit the camp’s FAQs at bit. ly/2VhslrP.
someone is unable to speak because of a medical emergency, cell service is limited or someone is unable to safely call dispatch. To use Text-to-911, people who have a text or data plan in their phones can send a message to “911.” The first text should include the person’s location and the help they need. After sending the message, people should stay by their phone to answer dispatch text messages. The Federal Communications Commission advises calling 911 if possible; texting communicates emergency information slower than a phone call. Text-to-911 is not available in all Washington counties and someone will receive an automatic text message if they try to text 911 in a county without Text-to-911.
Blaine residents make honor roll for Washington schools Caleb Bullard, Cayla Bullard and Mikayla Deming made Eastern Washington University’s (EWU) dean’s list for spring quarter. EWU undergraduates who earn a 3.5 GPA or higher and take at least 12 credit hours of classes
are placed on the dean’s list. Noah Westerhoff made Spokane Falls Community College’s honor roll for spring quarter. Spokane Falls’ students who earn a 3.0 GPA or higher are placed on the honor roll.
Due to COVID-19 and new OPMA rules, meetings are now only open to the public virtually. Information on how to listen or watch 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.
Thursday, July 15 10:00am – Public Works Advisory Committee Meeting
Thursday, July 22 6:00pm – Planning Commission Meeting *CANCELLED*
Monday, July 26 6:00pm – City Council Meeting *CANCELLED*
Tuesday, July 27 3:00pm – Civil Service Commission Meeting
Contact information for staff and Councilmembers can be found on the City’s website. Call (360) 332-8311 or visit our website.
www.cityofblaine.com
for REAL news s Camp Keystone in Bellingham is still accepting 4- to 6-year-olds for the weekly nature camp. NSEA courtesy photo
What-Comm 911 now accepting text messages, calls still preferred What-Comm 911 is now accepting 911 text messages from people unable to talk on the phone due to auditory and vocal impairments or emergency circumstances. What-Comm 911 is a Bellingham dispatch center that typically answers 140,000 annual emergency calls in Whatcom County, according to the city of Bellingham website. The city of Blaine began using What-Comm 911 in October 2018 after having used the more time-consuming U.S. Border Patrol dispatch center. Someone who is deaf, hard of hearing or has a speech difference can text 911 in a non-emergency situation, but should identify themselves as having an impairment in their first text. Textto-911 can also be used when
5
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The Immigration Law Firm
The service is only available in English; texts are currently unable to be translated because the text is sent through a phone line and not the internet. Dispatch is unable to view website links, emojis, photos and videos in 911 texts, but additional evidence may be shown to officers when they arrive on scene.
•• U.S. U.S. green greencards cards/ /naturalization naturalization •• Work / investor visas Inadmissibility waivers TN (NAFTA) work permits •• Denied entry waivers U.S. Citizenship •• Removal hearingsclaims • NEXUS appeals
360-332-7100 360-332-7100
www.blaineimmigration.com• •435 435Martin MartinSt., St., Suite Suite2010 1010 ••Blaine, www.blaineimmigration.com Blaine,WA WA
Leonard atLaw Law LeonardD.M. D.M.Saunders, Saunders, Attorney Attorney at
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The Northern Light • July 15 - 21, 2021
Blaine, Birch Bay businesses battle with staffing By Emily Feek The Rustic Fork Eatery closed for lunch three days a week starting July 13, while other restaurants like Bob’s Burgers and Brew cope with hiring. As state Covid-19 restrictions ease up, local restaurants are struggling to run at full capacity with fewer employees. Gary Slavin, owner of The Rustic Fork Eatery, has had little success hiring this summer. The restaurant advertises open positions for dish washers, servers, prep cooks, line cooks and pizza cooks, but is particularly struggling with having enough cooks, Slavin said. The Rustic Fork has been shortstaffed since opening mid-December, Slavin said. When it opened with patio seating only, the business was manageable, but opening up the business in the face of lightening restrictions has them stretched thin. “We’ve been fortunate that our staff has stayed on ever since we opened,” Slavin said. “Server-wise, we’ve been great as far as adding new servers, but kitchen staff – that’s where I’ve been advertising since May. Nobody is applying, and if they do apply, they’re not showing up for interviews.” His current staff are working 40-50 hour weeks and can’t keep up with the volume of customers or hours, Slavin said. Starting the week of July 12, The Rustic Fork will be closed for lunch on Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday. This allows the restaurant staff to take breaks and focus more on the evening crowd by staying open an extra half hour for dinner. The hiring difficulties don’t stop there. Slavin is expanding his business to open Gateway 1890 Taphouse Seafood & Grill as well as a Blaine event center.
Budget ... From page 1
meeting, and Blaine city manager and acting finance director Michael Jones said departments could start using the money as soon as July 13. Funds will be used for both immediate expenses and upcoming expenses through to the end of 2023. The second allocation will be worked into the 2021-22 bud-
Both businesses, set to open in September, face uncertainty with no staff hired yet. “Right now, I’m at the mercy of low applicants,” Slavin said. He won’t be able to open the businesses without hiring a full staff. Cody Hurlburt, owner of Bob’s Burgers and Brew in Birch Bay, has faced hiring difficulties for the last four months. Bob’s laid off many of its employees when the pandemic hit, manager Cody Bowden said. While they were able to rehire many of the original staff members, some former employees were unable to return for personal reasons, such as having to balance work while also teaching their kids at home, Bowden said. The recent hires have been mostly teenagers with little restaurant experience, Hurlburt said, leading to a less experienced staff overall. “We always do hire some teenagers, but in the 14 years that I’ve owned this restaurant, this is the youngest and most inexperienced my staff has been,” Hurlburt said. With the summer busy season upon them and the continuing lack of experienced applicants, maintaining Bob’s high level of service and food quality has been hard, Hurlburt said. Bob’s has been seeing comparable business to 2019, although Canadians typically account for around 20-30 percent of customers, Hurlburt said. The business’s biggest concern right now is getting staff trained and prepared for when the border reopens and business picks up. While restaurants like Bob’s and The Rustic Fork are facing challenges, establishments like Peace Arch City Café & Bar, closed two extra days per week due to short staffing, wrestle with the same problem. Difficulty hiring restaurant workers extends past Blaine and Birch Bay businesses, get. Jones proposed $435,000, or 55 percent of the first payment, go toward the city’s general fund that supports the city’s basic operations. Another $36,000, or 5 percent of the first payment, will fund seasonal workers for street maintenance. The following amounts totaling about $471,000 will be used as follows: • Police: $149,129. The money will fund a 12-month advance
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s Jesse Hasselswerth prepares lasagnas in The Rustic Fork Eatery kitchen before opening for dinner on July 13. Photo by Emily Feek but experts say it’s uncertain why food service is struggling to find employees. Scott Bailey, a regional labor economist at the Washington Employment Security Department (ESD), said many reasons are anecdotal. This also isn’t the first time the restaurant industry has seen a shortage of workers. “Before Covid-19 hit, there was a shortage of restaurant workers,” Bailey said. “Certainly not to the extent there is now, but I think that had a lot to do with the wages, benefits, working hours, working conditions, that whole ball of wax. And people finding what, for them, is a better opportunity elsewhere.” It isn’t entirely accurate to call it
a labor shortage, though there are limited workers. The week ending July 3, 400 people in Whatcom County who last worked food service jobs filed unemployment claims, Bailey said. That includes sit-down restaurants, fast food and coffee shops. “Comparing that with 200 job listings [on Craigslist] and people being in the process of checking out their prospects, that’s not a huge pool to draw from,” Bailey said. Despite businesses struggling to be fully staffed, the state has seen an increase in restaurant workers in the past several months. Over the last three months, leisure and hospitality employment, which includes food service, has gone
from 7,900 to 9,300 employed, Bailey said, an approximate 15 percent increase. The increase is likely due to a combination of seasonal business and the state reopening, Bailey said. Wages also play a role in the low number of applicants for some restaurant jobs. Although Washington has a relatively high minimum wage, wages have been stagnant for the last several decades, Bailey said. “To the extent that the labor market is a supply and demand market, it’s much different than other markets,” Bailey said. “If you can’t find somebody, that’s a signal to raise your wages. If there’s a shortage of peanut butter, the price is going to go up.”
pay for vehicle leases, add back the lieutenant position, pay salaries and wages and the utility space rental. • Finance: $86,500. The money will go toward a utility bill relief program for people unable to pay their bills ($40,000), the RED Loan forgiveness program for businesses ($40,000) and miscellaneous expenditures. • Public works: $73,000. The money will pay for seasonal workers and restoring the parks budget, which took the greatest hit during the pandemic, to its 2020 allocation. • Administration: $66,000. The money will re-establish a fulltime city clerk position, fund the recruitment of the city’s finance director and go toward employees’ travel and training. • Community Development Services: $47,000. The money will provide for additional professional services, travel, training, office supplies and economic development projects. • Information technology: $37,000. These funds will be used to update legacy information systems and other incidental
miscellaneous costs. • Court: $12,500. The money will enhance court security. This leaves $311,462, or 40 percent, of unappropriated funds to go toward things such as onetime expenses, continuing city programs, economic development and infrastructure projects. At this time, Jones didn’t know where the unappropriated funding would go, but said it would be an interesting conversation over the next few months. During the July 12 city council meeting, mayor Bonnie Onyon proposed council take future action to put unallocated ARPA funds toward building a G Street performance pavilion. ARPA funds from lodging revenue, which supports tourism expenses, and economic development could go toward the pavilion, Onyon said. “I think this is an ideal opportunity to be able to really make a statement on the plaza and be a tourism draw,” she said. Davidson agreed the pavilion was a good use of funds. “You see the same money is going every year to the same
programs,” he said. “When that program is done, it’s done until the next year. This is something we could have for 20, 30, 40, 50 years with some maintenance to it.” In the meantime, Blaine residents will see improvements in landscaping and maintenance. “It will allow us to re-establish or continue some programs we would have had to cut,” Jones said. “For example, we had to cut lawn maintenance more than previously, so we can keep those at service levels where they were last year.” East Blaine sewer gets $6 million in 2022 Going forward, the amended budget also includes a $6 million commitment in the city’s sixyear capital improvement plan for wastewater utility to expedite east Blaine sewer repairs in 2022. The neglected east Blaine sewer system was first brought to council’s attention during a March 8 study session when public works staff explained to council that sewer infrastructure, first recom(See Budget, page 13)
July 15 - 21, 2021 • thenorthernlight.com
Jorgensen qualifies for national golf championship
Please join the Commissioners of North Whatcom Fire & Rescue and Fire Chief Jason Van der Veen
At a virtual public meeting regarding Prop. 2021-3 to fund fire and emergency medical services. Voters will decide in the August 3 primary election. Learn about why the levy lid lift is requested and what we propose to do with the funds. Please join us for either session. Sessions & Zoom Links:
Thursday, July 15 at 3:00 pm. Zoom link: https://zoom.us/j/96250395043 Dial In: +12532158782,,96250395043 Tuesday, July 20 at 7:00 pm. Zoom link: https://zoom.us/j/92727729856 via phone: +12532158782,,92727729856
Questions? Please call Jennie Sand at North Whatcom Fire & Rescue at 306-318-9933
s Blaine resident Chris Jorgensen competed in the U.S. Senior Open Championship in Omaha, Nebraska that was held July 8-11.
Weekly Water Usage Trend
Courtesy photo
Blaine resident Chris Jorgensen competed in the U.S. Senior Open Championship in Omaha, Nebraska, last week after claiming the only spot from the qualifier held in May at Sudden Valley Golf Course. Jorgensen, 50, who overcame a back injury the day of the qualifier, was the only player to finish under par in Sudden Valley on May 18. After shooting two-overpar on the front nine, he rallied a three-under on the back half. He took medalist honors, scoring 71 on the par-72 course, the sole qualifying spot. PGA professional Jeff Coston, also of Blaine, took the first alternate spot, shooting par on the day. To be eligible for the U.S. Senior Open, golfers must have reached their 50th birthday by July 8 and be either a professional or an amateur with a handicap index – a number used to represent a player’s potential scoring ability – of 3.4 or less. In his prime, Tiger Woods had a handicap index of 9.4 when he won two world championships and two majors. He had a career low of 3.7. In Omaha, Jorgensen said he struggled to get his game together. He shot 12-over par in each of the first two rounds and ultimately missed the cut of 66 to continue onto the final rounds. “On one hand it was an unforgettable, amazing experience,” he said about competing at the national championships. “On the other hand, it was disappointing.” Jorgensen graduated from Blaine High School in 1989 and was inducted into the Hall of Fame in 2019 for winning a golf state championship his senior
30 MILLIONS OF GALLONS USED
By Ian Haupt
year and going onto a professional career. Jorgensen won the 1991 Washington Amateur Championship and the 1993 Pacific Northwest Golf Association Men’s Amateur. He then went pro, competing on the Korn Ferry Tour – the development tour for the PGA – for several years. He now works as director of operations for Matsunami Glass in Bellingham and holds the North Bellingham Golf Course record, with a 59 he shot in July 2016. Jorgensen is the son of longtime Blaine resident and retired Port of Bellingham commissioner Jim Jorgensen, who he missed having at his side. “I really had him on my mind and was hoping to play better,” Chris said. “I would’ve loved to come home and say, ‘Hey pops, look how well I played.’”
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The Northern Light • July 15 - 21, 2021
Boating safety device is in the process of being retrofit By Grace McCarthy
s Dream Boat Company founder Randy Parten is retrofitting the Rescu Swim’r, a device he created in 2018 to help inexperienced boaters and rescuers help someone who is in the water. Photo by Grace McCarthy
Randy Parten, owner of The Dream Boat Company in Blaine Harbor, knows a thing or two about boat safety. In 2018, Parten came up with a trailblazing invention to save lives on the water. Parten said the idea came to him after repeatedly having couples ask him how they would recover the boat’s driver if the driver fell into the water. “There was no answer to that. And as an educator who teaches people to drive yachts, that was pretty uncomfortable to say, ‘Well there’s not much you can safely do.’ It’s not advisable for a non-operator to try to drive a boat back to a person in the water,” Parten said. The Rescu Swim’r, as he named it, was created as an attachment for life rings. Life rings, personal flotation devices, are attached to rope that pulls aboard the person in the water. But there’s a fallacy in life rings
– they need to be thrown very close to the person who needs rescue, which is both hard to do and dangerous for the person in the water. The Rescu Swim’r comes into play because it can help someone on a boat tow the life ring at a 45-degree angle, so the life ring does not just trail behind the boat. By doing so, the rescuer avoids endangering the drowning person because they don’t need to encircle the boat around the person in the water or get too close to them. “The boat is as great of a danger to a person in the water as just being in the water,” Parten said. “That’s been the historic problem in the man overboard situation. Getting the boat next to that person is extremely dangerous.” On average, the Rescu Swim’r takes about one minute and 14 seconds to reach the person needing rescue, while it takes nearly nine times as long with only a life ring, Parten said. People inexpe-
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For some, self-insuring can provide better coverage, lower rates and greater stability - especially when paired with a wellness program. Unlike traditional fully-insured plans where cost containment requires shifting carriers, deductibles and out-of-pocket amounts, self-insuring directly manages the supply chain (office visits, surgeries, imaging, prescriptions) which can lower healthcare costs and increase predictability of claims. Level-Funding is an easy-to-understand, low risk form of self-insurance that’s growing in popularity. Here’s how it works: An employer starts by paying a set monthly premium into an account - the money is then used to pay claims for healthcare - if there’s any funds left in the account at the end of the plan year, it goes back to the employer, or if claims spending exceeds the funds in the account, the health insurer covers the difference. When accompanied by a thoughtful wellness program that incentivizes healthy activities like smoking cessation, mid-day fitness and nutrition counseling, the year-end claims savings is typically even greater.
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July 15 - 21, 2021 • thenorthernlight.com
rienced with rescuing or operating a boat can save lives with the easy-to-use device, he added. Parten was able to put his device to use when rescuing a paddleboarder in frigid Semiahmoo Bay waters on New Year’s Eve in 2019. Locating the paddleboarder in dark, windy and rainy conditions was the hard part. Rescuing her was easy. “Recovering her was the easiest part,” Parten said. “I put [the Rescu Swim’r] in the water and I pulled her in.” Parten first sought retrofitting his device because most boats are federally required to have a life ring. But soon after putting the patent-pending device on the market, he found people wanted to buy the life ring already assembled. Many people purchasing the Rescu Swim’r were asking Parten to also buy a life ring and then wanting him to attach it to the Rescu Swim’r, he said. “I think it’s because it’s a safety item. People aren’t looking to mess with it,” he said. “They just want to buy it, be safe and know that it’s perfect.” Right now, Parten is working with a manufacturer to create
drawings for the new product’s mold, which he expects should take six months. The device can be used multiple times, but the rudder should be replaced every two years because the sun will degrade plastic. “Every product has a product cycle and an evolution,” Parten said. “This is just a big step forward and this is what we found the way people want to buy it, so we’re giving people what they want.” No price is set for the second version of the Rescu Swim’r because Parten doesn’t know the manufacturing cost. Sales of the first Rescu Swim’r, which cost $99, have been put on hold until the optimized version is available, Parten said. “We want to give the market what they want but the impetus for the invention in the first place was to recover more people who go overboard,” he said. “Although the retrofit device may not be as good for the marketplace, it will still save people’s lives just as much.” For more information on the Rescu Swim’r, visit its website at rescuswimr.com.
9
s The Rescu Swim’r attached to a life ring next to Randy Parten’s first three prototypes. Photo by Grace McCarthy
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Q: Is an increase in losing my balance and/or falling as I get older normal?
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increase in falling and losing their balance is now their new normal. This is simply not true. Falling and losing your balance are not considered a normal part of the aging process and physical therapy can help to not only assess your risk of falling but can help reduce your fall risk and increase your functional mobility. At Capstone Physical Therapy we will work with you to identify your individual needs that place you at a risk of falling and prescribe specific exercises and treatment plans to address the root cause of your risk. We have locations both in Birch Bay Square and in Blaine on H street. 825 Birch Bay Square Street, Suite 248 Blaine, WA 98230
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• Residential Energy Efficient Property Credit allows a tax credit of 26% of the cost of the qualifying property. The cost includes labor for site preparation, assembly, or original installation. The following properties may qualify for the credit. • Solar electric property • Geothermal heat pump • Solar water heating property • Qualified fuel cell property • Small wind energy property • Nonbusiness energy property credit. The maximum credit for all years is up to $500. If the credit was taken in a prior year, it reduces the amount allowed for 2021. The following properties may qualify for the credit. • Qualified energy efficiency improvements expected to last 5-years or more • Insulation material or system specifically designed to reduce heat loss • Exterior doors that meet or exceed the version 6.0 Energy Star program requirements • Exterior windows and skylights that meet or exceed the version 6/0 Energy Star program requirement To qualify for the credit, qualified energy property must meet certain energy efficiency requirements.
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10
The Northern Light • July 15 - 21, 2021
CAP clothing bank will open Monday, July 19 in new G Street location By Grace McCarthy
s The CAP clothing bank will reopen to the public Monday, July 19 in its new, larger space that will serve the Blaine, Birch Bay, Custer and Point Roberts communities. Photos by Grace McCarthy
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The Community Assistance Program (CAP) clothing bank is opening to the public Monday, July 19 in its new location at the former Freedom Community Church. The clothing bank provides free clothing and linens to people in the Blaine, Birch Bay, Custer and Point Roberts communities. “To be able to have all of this space to help people feels really good,” said Amee Nelson, CAP board director of clothing ministries. “CAP volunteers did really good work with what they had, but [the former bank] only a fraction of this size.” Freedom Community Church donated the 4,000-square-foot church at 508 G Street to the local nonprofit last fall. CAP is made up of church volunteers who serve the community through crisis assistance, holiday gift help and Thanksgiving baskets, among other things. The new clothing bank is more than double the size of the 8-by40-foot shipping container that housed the previous clothing bank adjacent to Blaine Food Bank. People can pick up four adult items and 10 children’s items per week, unless it’s an extraordinary circumstance such as a house fire, in which case people can receive more assistance. The clothing bank also provides blankets, towels and sheets. Jan Schlack, CAP clothing bank director, said the clothing bank is
always in need of men’s clothes, towels, blankets and school-aged children’s clothes. Most of CAP’s clothing was donated in 2018 and 2019, before the program shut down during the pandemic. “We anticipate a change because a lot of people would stop in because they’re in line for the food bank and say, ‘Oh, the clothing bank is right here, I’m going to stop over.’” Schlack said. “It’s going to be more difficult for them to do that since we’re a few blocks away.” In 2019, 30 volunteers ran the clothing bank that helped around 1,000 community members. The new clothing bank will continue to operate during the same hours as Blaine Food Bank: 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. Monday through Friday, with additional evening hours 5-7 p.m. Wednesday. To access the clothing bank, people should enter the church through the side entrance behind the gates. At this time, those who visit the clothing bank must be able to navigate stairs, but volunteers are working to install a ramp that was paid for through an anonymous donation. Donations will only be accepted during clothing bank hours and volunteers ask no donations be placed outside the clothing bank. People who want to volunteer with the CAP clothing bank can contact Jan Schlack at info@ blainecap.org. Volunteers need to sign up for one 3-hour shift every month. For more information on CAP, visit blainecap.org.
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s Left; Amee Nelson, CAP board director of clothing ministries, and Jan Schlack, CAP clothing bank director, prepare for the clothing bank’s July 19 opening.
s The CAP clothing bank is located inside the nonprofit’s new building, located at the former Freedom Community Church at 508 G Street.
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IN THE SUPERIOR COURT OF THE STATE OF WASHINGTON IN AND FOR THE COUNTY OF WHATCOM In re the Matter of PETITIONER, AMANDA HAMEL AND RESPONDENT, RODEL M. PASAOA, PRESUMED FATHER No. 21-3-00161-37. SUMMONS SERVED BY PUBLICATION To: RODEL M. PASAOA: Petitioner has started a court case by filing a petition. The name of the Petition is Petition for a parenting plan, residential schedule and/or child support. You must respond in writing if you want the court to consider your side. Deadline! Your Response must be filed and served within 60 days of the date this Summons is published which is July 1, 2021. If you do not file and serve your Response or a Notice of Appearance by the deadline: No one has to notify you about other hearings in this case, and The court may approve the requests in the Petition without hearing your side (called a default judgment). Follow these steps: 1. Read the Petition and any other documents that were filed at court with this Summons. Those documents explain what the other party is asking for. 2. Fill out a Response on this form: FL Parentage 332, Response to Petition for Parenting Plan, Residential Schedule and/or Child Support You can get the Response form and other forms you may need at: * The Washington State Courts’ website: www.courts.wa.gov/forms * Washington LawHelp: www.washing tonlawhelp.org, or * The Superior Court Clerk’s office or county law library (for a fee). 3. Serve (give) a copy of your Response to the person who filed this Summons at the address below, and to any other parties. You may use certified mail with return receipt requested. For more information on how to serve, read Superior Court Civil Rule 5. 4. File your original Response with the court clerk at this address: Whatcom County Superior Court Clerk 311 Grand Avenue, Suite 301 Bellingham, WA 98225 5. Lawyer not required: It is a good idea to talk to a lawyer, but you may file and serve your Response without one. This Summons is issued according to Rule 4.1 of the Superior Court Civil Rules of the state of Washington. Dated: June 23, 2021. Casie C. Rodenberger, WSBA# 54348 Attorney for Petitioner Mailing address: PO Box 1258 Service address: 289 H Street, Suite A Blaine, WA 98231
IN THE SUPERIOR COURT OF THE STATE OF WASHINGTON IN AND FOR WHATCOM COUNTY In re the Estate of: NINA I. MORAVEC, Deceased. No. 21-4-0054437. NOTICE TO CREDITORS. Judge David Freeman The Administrator named below has been appointed and has qualified as Administrator of this estate. Any person having a claim against the decedent must, before the time the claim would be barred by any otherwise applicable statute of limitations, present the claim in the manner as provided in RCW 11.40.070 by serving on or mailing to the Administrator or the Administrator’s attorney at the address stated below a copy of the claim and filing the original of the claim with the court in which the probated proceedings were commenced. The claim must be presented within the later of: (1) thirty days after the Administrator served or mailed the notice to the creditor as provided under RCW 11.40.020(1)(c); or (2) four months after the date of first publication of the notice. If the claim is not presented within this time frame, the claim is forever barred, except as otherwise provided in RCW 11.40.051 AND 11.40.060. This bar is effective as to claims against both the decedent’s probate and nonprobate assets. Date of Filing of Notice to Creditors: July 13, 2021 with Clerk of Court: Date of First Publication: July 15, 2021 Name of Administrator: TREVER MORAVEC Attorney for Administrators: Steven D. Avery, WSBA #35262 Address for Mailing or Service: Avery Elder Law, P.S. 801 Samish Way, Ste. 202 Bellingham WA 98229 Telephone: (360) 325-2550 Email: steve@averyelderlaw.com DATED July 13, 2021 AVERY ELDER LAW, P.S. STEVEN D. AVERY, WSBA #35262 Attorney for Administrator TREVER MORAVEC www.averyelderlaw.com
IN THE SUPERIOR COURT OF THE STATE OF WASHINGTON IN AND FOR THE COUNTY OF Whatcom In Re the Estate of Lydia Jane Hoffman, Deceased. NONPROBATE NOTICE TO CREDITORS RCW 11.42.030 The notice agent named below has elected to give notice to creditors of the abovenamed decedent. As of the date of the filing of a copy of this notice with the court, the notice agent has no knowledge of any other person acting as notice agent or of the appointment of a personal representative of the decedent’s estate in the state of Washington. According to the records of the court as are available on the date of the filing of this notice with the court, a cause number regarding the decedent has not been issued to any other notice agent, and a personal representative of the decedent’s estate has not been appointed. Any person having a claim against the decedent must, before the time the claim would be barred by any otherwise applicable statute of limitations, present the claim in the manner as provided in RCW 11.42.070 by serving on or mailing to the notice agent or the notice agent’s attorney at the address stated below a copy of the claim and filing the original of the claim with the court in which the notice agent’s declaration and oath were filed. The claim must be presented within the later of: (1) Thirty days after the notice agent served or mailed the notice to the creditor as provided under RCW 11.42.020(2)(c); or (2) Four months after the date of first publication of the notice. If the claim is not presented within this time frame, the claim is forever barred, except as otherwise provided in RCW 11.42.050 and 11.42.060. This bar is effective as to claims against both the decedent’s probate and nonprobate assets. Date of First Publication: July 1, 2021 The notice agent declares under penalty of perjury under the laws of the state of Washington on May 19, 2021, at Bellingham, Washington, that the foregoing is true and correct. Notice Agent:: Coby Hoffman 706 Willow Court South Bellingham, WA 98225 Attorney for notice agent: Katti Esp 301 Prospect Street Bellingham, WA 98225 Address for Mailing or Service: Katti Esp 301 Prospect Street Bellingham, WA 98225 Court of notice agent’s Declaration and Oath: Superior Court of Whatcom County Cause No.: 21-4-00509-37
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: July 15, 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
PUBLIC SERVICE ANNOUNCEMENT Chapter 18.27.100 of the Revised Code of Washington requires that all advertisements for construction services include the contractor’s registration number in the advertisement. To verify a contractor’s license, call the Dept. of Labor and Industry’s contractors registration at 1-800-647-0982.
REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS WETLAND ASSESSMENT AND ENVIRONMENTAL PERMITTING SERVICES California Creek Estuary Park Project The Blaine-Birch Bay Park and Recreation District #2 (BBBPRD) is working to develop a park at the confluence of California Creek and Drayton Harbor. Approximately 30 acres of land will be protected and managed by BBBPRD. Along with preservation and restoration, BBBPRD will build an interpretive trail loop, an educational kiosk, a larger pedestrian trail system, and a kayak launch to access California Creek and Drayton Harbor by boat. Wetlands will be avoided to every extent possible, and mitigation will be executed for any impacts identified. The BBBPRD is requesting proposals from qualified environmental assessment consulting firms or wetland consultants for wetland assessment, trail development and mitigation planning services. The selected consultant will perform the tasks described in this request to develop a Critical Areas Report on portions of 5 parcels in the park for the purpose of finding the best route for a 10 ft bike and pedestrian trail. The property ID numbers of the parcels with areas to be assessed are 116619, 116616, 116630, 116604,116601. BBBPD has evaluated parcels 116619, 116616, and 116630 to determine the driest areas to be assessed for the proposed trail system. On the forested parcel (116630) the assessment area will be a 200 ft buffer from the trail proposed in the master plan that runs north-south through 1000 feet of the parcel. The trail will make a loop around the field on parcels 116619 and 116616. A 150 ft buffer from the proposed trail locations in the field will need to be evaluated. On parcel 116604 and 116601, the assessment will only occur on the 20-foot trail easement that runs north-south along the eastern most edge of the parcels. The consultant will then help determine the best locations for the proposed trails based on the critical area report and develop a Mitigation Plan to mitigate the impacts of the trails, and other development laid out in the master plan. For a description of services – Scope and Deliverables, maps and more information, contact: Ted Morris, Director, at tmorris@bbbprd2.com or 360-319-7663 Proposals Due: July 25, 2021
NOTICE OF DISSOLUTION OF CORPORATION
The Washington State Corporation Ferndale Lube, Inc. has been dissolved. Any person having a claim against Ferndale Lube, Inc. must, before the time the claim would be barred by any otherwise applicable statute of limitations, present a written notice in the manner as provided in RCW 23B.14 by serving on or mailing to the Registered Agent at the address stated below a copy of the claim against Ferndale Lube, Inc. Information included in the claim must contain the following: a) a general description of the known facts relating to a matured and legally assertible claim or liability, or b) an identification of the executory contract with respect to which unmatured, conditional, or contingent claims or liabilities are sought to be disposed of. The written notice of such claim must be delivered to Ferndale Lube, Inc.’s Registered Agent no fewer than 120 days of the publication date of this Notice. Any claim or any executory contract on which the claim is based may be rejected by the dissolved corporation, in which case the holder of the known claim will have a limited period of 90 days from the effective date of the rejection notice in which to commence a proceeding in Court to enforce the claim. The claim may be delivered to Ferndale Lube, Inc.’s Registered Agent. Any claim against the Corporation may be barred in accordance with RCW 23B.14 if not timely asserted. Registered Agent: Rajeev Majumdar 289 H Street/PO Box 1258 Blaine, WA 98231
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The Northern Light • July 15 - 21, 2021
REAL ESTATE
Bay Properties NW LUXURY REAL ESTATE AT A HIGHER LEVEL
924 East Grover Street, Lynden $480,000
50XX South Beach Road, Point Roberts $185,000
LOCATED IN A COVETED LYNDEN NEIGHBORHOOD...
Welcome home to this highly coveted neighborhood in Lynden, Whatcom County’s fastest growing community! Located on a .25 acre lot, this 2839 SF 4 BD, 2 BA home offers oodles of potential and is just waiting for your design/decorator finishes! Large living rooms upstairs as well as down in the fully finished basement with Sauna! Beautiful mature kiwi tree, apple tree, Japanese maple and rhododendrons in the very private backyard! Room for garden and or potential for a small shop! View of the twin sisters off your back patio! Minutes from schools, restaurants and shopping!
CeCelia Breivik • (360) 303-8161
7806 Birch Bay Drive #103, Birch Bay $449,000 JACOB’S LANDING WATERVIEW CONDOMINIUM!
NEW LISTING! Fabulous Garden Unit fully renovated with views of the Bay! Located at Jacob’s Landing in the heart of Birch Bay, this condo offers unobstructed views of water and magical sunsets. Features of this 880 SF 2 BD, 1 BA updated unit include granite countertops, ss appliances, new floors, kitchen cabinets & more. Newer water heater installed. Enjoy all Birch Bay has to offer: clamming, crabbing, kayaking & beach walks. Jacob’s Landing amenities include clubhouse with indoor heated pool, hot tub, racquet ball & tennis courts. Unit comes partially furnished.
POINT ROBERTS HOMESITE!
Pacific Northwest living at its finest! This unique scenic, forested 6 plus acre parcel is conveniently 6+ ACRE PARCEL! located in a central neighborhood of Point Roberts. Property offers flexible build out from recreational cabin/cottage to acreage estate luxury home.
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Carl W. R. Dufton • (360) 815-6637
7460 Wooldridge Avenue, Birch Bay $749,100
5715 Nakat Way, Birch Bay $1,425,000
BIRCH BAY VILLAGE LISTED & PENDED IN WATERFRONT HOME! 1 DAY! Infinity views from stunning single level sanctuary! Huge lot with complete privacy offers south facing views of San Juan Islands & sparkling waters. Bright open living space flows to custom kitchen, tons of storage & perfect layout for entertaining. 2629 SF, 3 BD, 2.75 BA, bonus room & den! Expansive covered patio, enjoy panoramic vistas. Radiant heat, white oak floors, skylights, hot tub & A/C! Oversized garage. Rare opportunity in Birch Bay Village, easy access to beach, 24/7 security, golf course, marina, clubhouse, tennis, private beaches, parks!
VIEW, VIEW, VIEW!
Julie Ward • (760) 522-2564
8737 Wood Duck Way, Blaine • $1,425,000 •
MLS # 1803524 • 3 beds, 3.5 baths, 4,081 square feet Semiahmoo NW. Craftsman stunner with double fairway views & Premier Western sun. 4081 sq. ft home, 1098 sq. ft 3 car garage, and 1087 sq. ft. covered & uncovered patio & entertainment area. Home oozes quality & design, exceptional appeal both curb and fairway side, including irrigated landscaping package. New interior paint & carpet in the entire home, updated audio visual and sound equipment. Great rm / living rm features 25 foot ceiling +/- with 14 foot ceilings in the office. Main floor includes: Master with en-suite, master bath with radiant floor heating, office, dining room, Great rm, upgraded kitchen, nook area, pantry, 1/2 bath, utility room with special light sensors in kitchen and utility.
360.815.6638
see more pictures at www.briansouthwick.com
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J-9 36’ Finger Slip $42,000
Call Hugh : 360.371.5800 Your Local Expert For All Real Estate, Residential Or Commercial Services!
Public Notices
Blaine School District Budget
On July 10, the Blaine School District will have completed its preliminary budget for the 2020-21 school year. A budget summary will be on file at the district administrative office at 765 H Street, and a copy will be furnished to any person requesting one. The summary will include a projected total of expenses and revenues. A public hearing on the 2020-21 budget will take place during the regularly scheduled Board meeting, July 27 at 7:00 p.m. Anyone in attendance will have the opportunity to speak for or against any part of the budget. Board adoption will take place during the regularly scheduled Board meeting, August 24 at 7:00 p.m. Please visit the District website at www.blainesd.org for meeting attendance instructions. For more information, please call 360-332-5881.
BUZZ’N!
PART TIME YARD WORK 10 hours a week in Birch Bay. $15 per hour depending on experience. Call 360-371-7053
PRESCHOOL TEACHER
Birch Bay Bible Community Church is looking for a preschool teacher. If you love working with children and helping them learn, then consider employment at BBBCC Preschool. We are looking for a lead teacher who is passionate about helping preschool aged children grow in their life skills and knowledge of Jesus. Email preschoolboard@ birchbaychurch.com or go to www.birchbaychurch.com/jobs to view the job description.
CITY OF BLAINE
JOURNEYMAN LINEMAN Salary: $8,183 per month plus benefits Application Deadline: 4:30pm on July 16, 2021 Interested persons should complete the online application on the City’s website, https://www.ci.blaine.wa.us/
The City of Blaine is an Equal Opportunity Employer.
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real estate/rentals advertisAllAllreal estate/rentals advertisinginin this this newspaper is subject ing newspaper is subject the Federal Federal FairFair Housing Act Act totothe Housing of 1968 as amended, which of 1968 as amended, makes limit illegal makes it illegal to advertisewhich any preference, to advertise any preference, limitation or disitation or discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, handicap familial nationalreligion, orcrimination based on status race,or color, igin, or an intention to make any such preference, sex, handicap, familial status or national orilimitation or discrimination. This newspaper will gin, or an intention to make any such prefnot knowingly accept any advertisement for real erence, limitation estate which is in violationorof discrimination. the law. Our readers This newspaper will that not allknowingly accept any are hereby informed dwellings advertised in this newspaper for are available on anwhich equal opadvertisement real estate is in viportunityofbasis. complain of discrimination, call inolation theTolaw. Our readers are hereby HUD toll-free at 1-800-877-0246. formed that all dwellings advertised in this newspaper are available on an equal opportunity basis. To complain of discrimination, call HUD toll-free at 1-800-877-0246.
In The Northern Light
Location, Location!
D
ONE BLOCK TO THE BEACH!
This Birch Bay Beauty features Panoramic Ocean Views of beautiful Birch Bay, can be enjoyed outside on covered deck as well as inside. Lots of natural light through the large picture windows. This 1300 SF2 BD, 1.5 BA, two story home features hardwood floors, ceramic tile, ss appliances & 9 foot ceilings. Additional outbuilding with insulation & power can be used as office, guestroom, or storage. Great floor plan for get-away home or full time living. Potential for vacation rental income. Fantastic location within walking distance to beach & all amenities that Birch Bay has to offer.
SE NEWMIAHM LIST OO ING !
PEN
11.33 ACRE ESTATE PROPERTY W/VIEW!
Rare west facing marine view estate property encompassing 11.33 acres overlooking bays, mountains, & islands, located on Birch Point plateau high above these pristine NW waters. Beautifully forested, relatively level with a slight slope eastward and ready to build dream home offering privacy and exclusivity. Located an hour to Vancouver, BC and under two hours to Seattle. In addition to natural beauty - a mile from Semiahmoo with its Inn, golf course, & 300 slip marina. Property could potentially be divided offering two separate estate size properties.
Terry Conway • (360) 410-0503
! ING 20+ acres on Kickerville.
PART TIME WORK Do you have a full time life but want a little extra income? Part time evening work in Blaine. For info go to tinyurl.com/4p3ps3xs.
5835 Semiahmoo Drive, Birch Point $1,050,000
Heather Taylor • (425) 785-5771
Ruth Skeete • (360) 358-5075
MARINE PAINTER/POLISHER in Point Roberts. $17/hr. Transportation possibly provided. Call Jessica at 360945-5523.
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Rentals - Commercial
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All real estate/rentals advertising in this newspaper is subject to the Federal Fair Housing Act of 1968 as amended, which makes it illegal to advertise any preference, limitation or discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, handicap, familial status or national origin, or an intention to make any such preference, limitation or discrimination. This newspaper will not knowingly accept any advertisement for real estate which is in violation of the law. Our readers are hereby informed that all dwellings advertised in this newspaper are available on an equal opportunity basis. To complain of discrimination, call HUD toll-free at 1-800-877-0246.
FOR LEASE
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July 15 - 21, 2021 • thenorthernlight.com
Rules of the Road: Budget ... Motorcycles passing each other From page 6 By Doug Dahl Q: Can a motorcycle pass another motorcycle on the right if the riders are not lane sharing? A: My favorite motorcycle movie has to be Hot Rod; a film in which stunt man Rob Kimble tries to earn his step-dad’s respect by attempting (and failing) numerous motorcycle jumps. It’s probably the least capable motorcycle rider doing the dumbest riding ever put on the big screen. At the other extreme, there’s The Terminator, who races helmetless through Los Angeles traffic, smashing through chain link gates, jumping his Harley into an aqueduct and outmaneuvering a villain in a truck to rescue the young John Connor. The common denominator is that both riders take extreme risks on their motorcycles, and both survive. The Terminator survives because he’s an indestructible robot from the future; Rod Kimble survives because the hero never dies in a fictional comedy. Meanwhile, in real life, actual motorcycle riders get in serious crashes for much more mundane reasons. Lack of rider experience, failing to follow traffic laws, impairment, distraction; these are the things that come up repeatedly in serious motorcycle crashes. Of those mundane reasons, 10 of the 90 fatal motorcycle crashes in 2020 involved unsafe passing by motorcycles, the number three factor in 2020. (The top two by motorcyclists were speeding – 35 crashes, and impairment – 12 crashes.) Clearly, knowing how to safely pass another vehicle is a critical skill for motorcycle riders. Proper passing includes both knowledge of the law, and the skills to execute a safe pass. I can’t help with the physical skills – that takes training and practice – but I can review the law as it pertains to this question. First, the law states that when passing a vehicle proceeding in the same direction, the driver “shall pass to the left.” The law does provide two instances when you can pass on the right: when the vehicle you’re passing is making a left turn, and “upon a roadway with unobstructed pavement of sufficient width for two or more lines of vehicles” going in the same direction. To me that sounds like at least two lanes, but you could argue that with motorcycles you can fit two vehicles in one lane. However, there’s also a law that states “All motorcycles are entitled to the full use of a lane and no motor vehicle shall be driven in such a manner as to deprive any motorcycle of the full use of
a lane.” That might sound a bit redundant, but I think the legislators wanted to make a point. Motorcyclists are vulnerable, and this law is intended to give them space to protect them. The law continues, “The operator of a motorcycle shall not overtake and pass in the same lane occupied by the vehicle being overtaken.” Given that motorcycles are defined in the law as vehicles, passing within the lane, on either the left or the right is not allowed. The only exception to two vehicles in the same lane is when motorcycles are riding two abreast. And here’s my take on the original question: if that’s not your riding partner, you’re not riding two abreast; you’re passing on the right. But even if I’m misunderstanding the law and you could pass on the right, why would you want to? Passing is a high-risk part of riding; waiting for a safe opportunity for a proper pass makes way more sense than choosing a route that’s unexpected. In 2020, motorcyclist actions were the primary factor in 75 percent of fatal motorcycle crashes in Washington. In most riding situations, it’s up to you to create your own safety. Doug Dahl is a manager with the Washington Traffic Safety Commission, Region 11 and publishes TheWiseDrive.com.
Election ... From page 1
The auditor’s office can help people register to vote or change their address until 8 p.m. August 3 but voter registration and address changes must be done online or received by mail by Monday, July 26. An accessible voting unit in the auditor’s office can assist voters needing visual and audio accommodations through Election Day. The top two candidates for each race will go onto the general election on November 2. People who want to register to vote and have their Washington state driver’s license or ID can register to vote on votewa.gov. People already registered to vote can visit votewa.gov to check on their ballot status, access personal voting information and update voter registration among other things. For more information, visit the Whatcom County Auditor’s Office website at whatcomcounty. us/1732/current-election.
mended for repair in 2005, had caused sewage to leak into some east Blaine streets. On June 16, Jones sent a memo to city councilmembers and east Blaine housing developers signaling that the faulty sewer system could delay housing in an area hot for housing development. The wastewater utility amendment will increase the predicted expenditures from $2.8 over 2021-2025 to $6.5 million over 2021-2022 for sewer replacements and enhancements. The city is spending $500,000 in 2021 for sewer design, included in the $6.5 million. The project was accelerated from work being done over five years to two after the city realized the project needed to be constructed in a tighter timeframe, Jones said. Construction is expected to start next spring and finish by October 2022, according to a memo from Jones to city council. “We now know from the work interim [public works] director Bob Hammond initiated and Mr. Ziemianek has continued on that those numbers are not enough,” Jones said of the previously budgeted $2.8 million project. “East Blaine pipe capacity, through a series of improvements, really all needs to be front-loaded and done at the same time, and the cost of it is higher than we had anticipated based upon the inspection, analysis, modeling and design work.” The city expects to fund the $6 million project with a $6 million sewer loan, Jones said, adding that the city already has reserves for the $1.5 million project. The amended capital improvement plan also includes a $1.5 million project in 2025 to continue the sewer line under I-5.
O B I T U A RY Peter Jess Weyhrich
November 27, 1937 – June 13, 2021 Peter “Pete” Weyhrich, age 83, passed away Sunday, June 13, 2021 at his home in Blaine. Pete was born in Pipestone, Minnesota to Lester G. and Garnet Faye (Housman) Weyhrich. The family moved to Portland, Oregon in 1944 where his father worked in the shipyards. Like his father, Pete became a machinist by trade. His skills took him to Alaska late in his working career which allowed him to enjoy one of his favorite pastimes – fishing. He loved playing outdoors and traveling to new places. Pete loved fast cars and riding motorcycles. He was a member of the Shriners, a Mason, and believed in the Lutheran faith. His second wife, Burle “Bea” (Lawson) wanted to move back to be nearer to her family after Pete retired. So, they moved from Alaska to southern Washington. After Bea’s passing in 2010, Pete moved back to be near three of his children in Whatcom County and lived in Blaine at the Luna family home until his passing. He will be remembered for his engaging smile, love and support to his children and grandchildren. He is survived by his first wife, Jo Ann Stover (Gilbert), their children, Scott (Pat) Weyhrich, Kurt (Angi) Weyhrich, Jeanie (Joe) Luna, Jill (Scott) Peck, 10 grandchildren and 31 great-grandchildren. Four step-children, Sandy, Sheila, Ron, and William and their children and grandchildren. He was preceded in death by a step-son John.
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The Northern Light • July 15 - 21, 2021
Sheriff’s Reports July 3, 3:45 p.m.: Fireworks on Koehn Road. July 3, 8:32 p.m.: Fireworks on Sagebrush Lane. July 3, 10:07 p.m.: Fireworks on Harborview Road. July 4, 12:17 a.m.: Domestic physical on Willow Way. July 4, 11:20 a.m.: Vandalism on Harborview Road and Birch Bay Drive. July 4, 6:44 p.m.: Motor vehicle accident injury on Skagit Way. July 4, 9:59 p.m.: Fireworks on Cedar Way. July 4, 10:14 p.m.: Fight on Birch Bay Drive. July 4, 10:37 p.m.: Missing person on Portal Way, Custer. July 5, 12:27 a.m.: Fireworks on Moonlight Way. July 5, 2:16 p.m.: Neighborhood dispute on Arnie Road, Custer. July 5, 6:47 p.m.: Motor vehicle accident injury on Alderson Road and Morrison Avenue. July 6, 12:39 p.m.: Trespass on Arnie Road. July 6, 3:19 p.m.: Motor vehicle accident injury on H Street and Sunrise roads. July 6, 4:04 p.m.: Landlord tenant dispute on Birch Bay-Lynden Road. July 6, 5:23 p.m.: Domestic physical on Harborview Road.
July 7, 10:08 a.m.: Vehicle theft on Valley View Road, Custer. July 7, 6:33 p.m.: Hit and run on Birch Bay Drive. July 7, 9:56 p.m.: Sex crime – not rape – on Anderson Road. July 8, 12:36 p.m.: Civil problem on Beachcomber Drive. July 9, 8:38 a.m.: Domestic physical on Birch Bay Square Street.
July 3, 2:51 p.m.: Neighborhood dispute on Bayview Avenue. July 3, 10:18 p.m.: Suspicious circumstances report involving a laser on Cedar Street. July 4, 1:59 a.m.: Suicidal threats on B Street. July 4, 4 a.m.: Burglary on H Street. July 4, 8:59 a.m.: Domestic dispute on A Street. July 4, 11:48 a.m.: Missing person on E Street. July 4, 8 p.m.: Theft on Boblett Street. July 5, 12:07 p.m.: Disorderly conduct on Adelia Street. July 5, 1:21 p.m.: Fireworks after legal timeframe on 16th Street.
or pronunciation 58. Cyprinids 59. Appropriate to a festival 60. Pearl Jam frontman 64. Wrath 65. Italian city 66. A way to get there 67. A nose or snout 68. German seaport 69. A horse for riding 70. Airline representative (abbr.) DOWN 1. Unhappy 2. Silk fabric 3. Unbroken view of a region 4. Middle Eastern territory 5. __ and Andy, TV show 6. Central processing unit 7. Department of Housing and Urban Development 8. Midcentury newspaper columnist 9. Weapon 10. Delivered a speech 11. Probably going to happen
12. Midway between northeast and east 13. Danish krone 19. Synthetic resin (abbr.) 21. Fall slowly in drops 24. Bestow an honor upon 25. Childishly silly 26. Related on the mother’s side 27. Populations of related plants 31. Coherent 32. Tribe of ancient Britons 34. Financial firm Goldman __ 35. Stephen King thriller 36. Went in again 40. Commercial 41. Poking holes in the ground 45. Prisoners of war 47. Pursued pleasure 48. “Seinfeld” character 52. Body of water 53. Hovering vehicle (abbr.) 54. People who utilize 56. Nostrils 57. Inner mass of
July 5, 2:29 p.m.: Suicidal threats on H Street. July 5, 10:04 p.m.: DUI on Bayview Avenue. July 6, 9:03 a.m.: Welfare check on Night Heron Drive. July 6, 5:28 p.m.: Verbal abuse on H Street. July 7, 2:59 p.m.: Physical domestic violence assault on Peace Portal Drive. July 7, 4:12 p.m.: Vandalism report on Marine Drive. July 7, 10:24 p.m.: Security check on Sweet Road. July 8, 3:22 p.m.: Mental health concern on H Street. July 8, 5:20 p.m.: Criminal traffic stop on H Street. Report by Blaine Police Department.
some fungi 59. Honor lavishly 60. Midway between east and southeast 61. Turn down 62. Small round mark 63. Expected at a certain time ANSWERS: THENORTHERNLIGHT.COM
Tides 49° 0’ 0”N - 122° 46’ 0”W TIME
HEIGHT
TIME
HEIGHT
Fr 16 5:33 am 3.9 10:21 am 5.9
4:14 pm 2.2 11:22 pm 9.7
Sa 17 6:23 am 2.7 12:03 pm 5.9
5:04 pm 3.7 11:52 pm 9.6
Su 18 7:15 am 1.4
1:57 pm 6.4
6:06 pm 5.2
Mo 19 12:26 am 9.6
8:07 am 0.0
3:35 pm 7.4
7:24 pm 6.4
Tu 20 1:06 am 9.6
8:59 am -1.2
4:51 pm 8.4
8:50 pm 7.2
We 21 1:52 am 9.6
9:49 am -2.1
5:49 pm 9.3 10:08 pm 7.6
Th 22 2:44 am 9.5 10:39 am -2.8
6:37 pm 9.9 11:18 pm 7.5
Semiahmoo Women’s Club Luncheon: Thursday, July 15, 11:15 a.m., Semiahmoo Golf & Country Club, 8720 Semiahmoo Parkway. $25 buffet lunch. RSVP by 5 p.m. Saturday July 10 to B.J. Windrum, 817-600-4192 or young.drum@hotmail.com. Women from all communities welcome to join the club. Info: semiahmoowomensclub.org. Birch Bay Chamber of Commerce Meeting: Thursday, July 15, 11:30 a.m.–1 p.m., The Beach Bar, 7876 Birch Bay Drive. Registration required at birchbaychamber.com. Blaine Harbor Music Festival: Now through July 17. Free community virtual concert presented each day at 1 p.m. For more information on the program, courses and participation, visit: blaineharbormusicfestival.org.
Trivia at The Vault: Thursday, July 15, 7 p.m., The Vault Wine Bar and Bistro, 277 G Street. This week’s theme: General knowledge hosted by Alan. Info: thevaultwine. com. Splash Days Revival: Friday, July 16, 12:30–2:30 p.m., 3rd and Martin streets. Blaine Public Works will shut down a section of 3rd Street to open up fire hydrants and attach sprinklers for a street party that will help kids beat the heat! The Sugar Shack ice cream truck will be on-site for tasty summer snacks and the BBBPRD2 will be serving up hot dogs and chips. Info: bbbparkandrec.org. Live Music at The Vault: Friday, July 16, 7 p.m., The Vault Wine Bar and Bistro, 277 G Street. Featuring: Garrett Hendricks. Info: thevaultwine.com. Hunters of the Sky: Saturday, July 17, 6 p.m., Birch Bay State Park wildlife theater. Experience live birds of prey up close, learn as highly skilled trainers from Sardis Raptor Center show off winged hunters and provide insight into identification, anatomy of flight, raptors’ role in the environment and much more! Please bring chairs. Info: fobbsp.org. Third Sunday Breakfast: Sunday, July 18, 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 $8, kids 6 and under $4. Open to the public. All proceeds support the American Legion and our veterans. Info: 360/371-7311. Discovering Jesus Vacation Bible School: July 19–23, 1–3:30 p.m., Northwood Chapel, 580 C Street. Free. Kids kindergarten–5th grade. Register at: register@ cefwhatcom.org. Proposition 2021-3 Virtual Public Meeting: Thursday July 20, 7 p.m. Learn about why the levy lid lift is requested and what North Whatcom Fire and Rescue proposed for the funds. Zoom link: zoom.us/j/92727729856. Live Music at The Rustic Fork: Thursday, July 22, 6 p.m., The Rustic Fork Eatery, 442 Peace Portal Drive. Featuring solo artist Ron Hardt. Info: therusticforkeatery. com. Family Beach Walk: Friday, July 23, 11 a.m.–1 p.m., Birch Bay State Park. Free. Meet at the Heron Center or look for volunteers in green vests on the beach. Info: fobbsp.org. Dive-in Movie at Birch Bay Waterslides: Friday, July 23, gates open at 8 p.m., movie starts around 9:30 p.m., Birch Bay Waterslides, 4874 Birch Bay Lynden Road. Drive-in movie-style, showing La Bamba. Cost $20 per car. Purchase tickets at birchbaychamber.com. Old Settlers Picnic: Friday and Saturday, July 23 and 24, noon– 10 p.m., Pioneer Park in Ferndale. Free all ages event. For complete list of events, visit whatcomoldsettlers.com.
July 16 – 22 at Blaine. Not for navigation.
DATE
Coming up
Proposition 2021-3 Virtual Public Meeting: Thursday July 15, 3 p.m. Learn about why the levy lid lift is requested and what North Whatcom Fire and Rescue proposed for the funds. Zoom link: zoom.us/j/96250395043.
Police Reports
Crossword ACROSS 1. Calls balls and strikes 4. Turkish officer 9. Repaired shoe 14. Grass genus 15. Small, sealed vial 16. Primp 17. Immoral act 18. A tool to communicate 20. Crumbles away 22. Egg-like 23. Districts (abbr.) 24. Dressed 28. Small island (British) 29. Dialect of Chinese 30. Force unit 31. Borderlines 33. Norse gods 37. Morning 38. Fiddler crabs 39. Tell a story 41. Consumed 42. Atomic #58 43. About old Norse poems 44. Fencing swords 46. One-time Tigers third baseman 49. Southpaw (abbr.) 50. Neither 51. Conversations 55. Distinctive manner
July 10, 11:50 a.m.: Fight on Kickerville and Birch Bay-Lynden roads. July 10, 8:34 p.m.: Hit and run on McGee and Giles roads. July 10, 8:55 p.m.: Landlord tenant dispute on Birch Bay-Lynden Road. July 11, 11:24 a.m.: Fraud on Castlerock Drive. July 12, 12:34 p.m.: Theft on H Street Road.
Weather
Precipitation: During the period of July 5 – 11, no precipitation was recorded. The 2021 year-to-date precipitation is 14.1 inches.
Temperature: High for the past week was 81°F on July 11 with a low of 55°F on July 6 and 8. Average high was 68°F and average low was 63°F.
Courtesy Birch Bay Water & Sewer Dist.
Sand Sculpture Competition and Rollback Weekend: Saturday-Sunday, July 24-25. Sand sculpture contest on the Bay from 9 a.m.–4 p.m. both days. Register at birchbaychamber.com. Golf cart and bicycle poker run on Saturday from 11 a.m.– 1 p.m. Classic car show on Sunday from 8 a.m–1 p.m. Register online $5 or in person $10. Info: birchbaychamber.com. Ongoing: Summer food program: Blaine School District will have no charge meals available for all students up to 18 years of age, or 21 if enrolled in a program and not graduated. Meals are to be picked up on Wednesdays between 1 and 5:30 through the summer. Visit our Food Services page for more information. 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. CAP Clothing Bank: starting July 19, Mondays and Fridays, 9 a.m. - noon and Wednesdays, 5-7 p.m. 508 G Street. The CAP Clothing Bank will reopen in our new location in the basement of the CAP Center providing free clothing and linens. Donations accepted only during open hours or by special arrangement. Info: blainecap. org or 360/392-8484. 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. Blaine Library: 610 3rd Street. Open to in-branch visits, Monday–Saturday, 10 a.m.–5 p.m. In-branch visits, curbside services, and Friends of the Library Bookstore now open 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. Alaska Packers Association Cannery Museum: Open Fridays, Saturdays, Sundays, 1–5 p.m., 9261 Semiahmoo Parkway. Free, donations welcome. Masks required Info: 360/371-3558. Movie Nights: Fridays, 8:15 p.m., Birch Bay Activity Center, 7511 Gemini Street. Playing family friendly movies. Bring a blanket or lawn chair and watch the movie on the big screen. Free popcorn. Masks and social distancing required. Info: bbbparkandrec.org.
Submissions to Coming Up should be sent to calendar@thenorthernlight.com no later than noon on Monday.
July 15 - 21, 2021 • thenorthernlight.com
15
Join the Park District for
Waterslide Tuesdays Day Camp Ages: 8 -18 • $16.50 per person Drop-off and pick-up at Birch Bay Waterslides s The Blaine-Birch Bay Park and Recreation District 2 received $425,000 in state grants to build the California Creek Estuary Park. The department will match those funds with $147,000.
SIGN UP TODAY! Space is limited (15 participants) Sign up at
bbbparkandrec.org
Photo by Cole Markuson/courtesy BBBPRD2
or call the Rec Center at
360-656-6416
s Riprap along Blaine Marine Park shoreline between the apple tree and Lighthouse Point Water Reclamation Facility. Photo by Grace McCarthy
Grants ... From page 1
The project, which spans the shoreline from the apple tree to the Lighthouse Point Water Reclamation Facility, is the city’s first capital project on Blaine’s Strategic Economic Initiative. The money will help the city replace the concrete boulders along the Blaine Marine Park shoreline made to protect the man-made land mass from erosion. This project is separate from another Blaine Marine Park shoreline project the city is pursuing in a different area to repair erosion damage from the king tides in January, affecting areas near the apple tree and former dump site. The grant money will come in conjunction with the work schedule, said city manager Michael Jones, who expects construction to start in the fall or early next year. Shoreline work is heavily regulated because of endangered species so construction has to align with the tide schedule. “Marine Park is one of our
Whole Pilates of Birch Bay
Authentic Classical Pilates Private training in studio or online Contact colleen@wholepilates.com
premiere recreational parks. It is very heavily visited,” Jones said. “Turning the inaccessible shoreline into a more beach-like shoreline will really help the value. Overall, it will be very beneficial to the city, more so to residents than visitors. It will be great to have shoreline that is more usable than what we have today.” California Creek Estuary Park ALEA and the Washington Wildlife and Recreation Program’s Water Access Category allocated BBBPRD2 nearly $425,000, which will allow the department to build the California Creek Estuary Park through 12 acres along California Creek and 230 feet of Drayton Harbor shoreline for a future park. The highly anticipated park will have a kayak launch, restroom, kiosk and trails to the day-use park will be added because of the ALEA grant and a $147,000 BBBPRD2 cash contribution, voter-approved bonds and volunteer work. The park will also have a picnic shelter, designated viewpoint and there will be two trails – a 2640-foot boardwalk and a
2376-foot crushed stone trail. A 50-car parking lot will also provide plenty of parking. The two old buildings on the future park’s property were demolished the first week of July and BBBPRD2 has sent out a proposal for a second wetland study, BBBPRD2 director Ted Morris said. The first wetland study took a year and a half be-
SPORTS CENTER
5519 Hovander Rd. Ste. 109 Ferndale, WA 98248 360-384-3861 • gymstarsports.com
(See Grants, page 16)
EFFECTIVE Health Care Providers want what is best for our patients. That is why we hope you will join us by getting vaccinated against COVID-19. - Gurpreet Dhillon, Director of Home Care Services, PeaceHealth
this is
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WHATCOM
VaccinateWhatcom.org
16
The Northern Light • July 15 - 21, 2021
Grants ...
125 TH ANNUAL
ld SettlerS Picnic O J 23 & 24 | P P F uly
iOneer
ark in erndale
Free all aGeS eVentLIVE DAILY
12PM-6PM: Cabins open 12PM-Dusk: Concessions & Food Vendors available 12:10PM: Opening Ceremonies of the Old Settlers Picnic Alan & Carol Linde
Sandy & Howard Andreasen
Al Ulrich & Jim Taylor
Matt Audette & the Circle of Friends Band
1PM-7PM: Whatcom Genealogical Society, “Family History Fun and Exploration” 1PM-10PM: Beer Garden
SOUTHBOUND HARD ROCK
SATURDAY
8:30AM- 3PM: Pioneer Car Show 12:30PM-7PM: Pioneer Corral Children’s Activities 12:45PM-1:45PM: Jon Mutchler 2PM-4PM: SOUTHBOUND HARD ROCK 1PM-6PM: Wagon Rides through downtown Ferndale 8PM-10PM: FREE RAIN BAND
FREE RAIN BAND
SATURDAY-
9PM-10PM:
FIREWORKS & BALLOON GLOW
Sponsored by WECU & Ferndale’s Class of 1972
T
MEN N I A T ENTER
FRIDAY (SENIOR CITIZEN DAY)
12:30PM-1PM: Sandy & Howard Andreasen & Carol & Joe Younger 12:30PM-7PM: Pioneer Corral Children’s Activities 1:10PM-2PM: Alan & Carol Linde 2PM-2:45PM: Al Ulrich & Jim Taylor 3PM-4PM: Roger Quiggle 5PM-6:30PM: Matt Audette & the Circle of Friends Band 5PM-8 PM: Wagon Rides through downtown Ferndale 8PM-10PM: SOUTHBOUND HARD ROCK
From page 15
Gates open at noon both days!
WhatcomOldSettlers.com
cause of the amount of wetlands in the area, slowing down the park’s progress. “Slowly but surely we’re working our way through the myriad of permits and things,” he said. “It always takes longer than you expect.” Construction of the park’s second phase could be complete by December 2022, with a proposed agreement end date of June 15, 2023, according to grant application documents.
The new land along Drayton Harbor means BBBPRD2 will now own nearly 900 feet of consecutive saltwater shoreline starting at the mouth of California Creek. The park will help preserve the surrounding habitat and protect the water quality. The grant application estimated the 12-acre lot, purchased from a private landowner, cost $259,300. “It feels great,” Morris said of receiving the grant. “I think we’re doing a really great project and it’s in an area that needs this recreational access. It’s always great to see those hours pay off.”