August 19 - 25, 2021
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Birch Bay library on November ballot, page 4
The hornets are back and being tracked
Crabbing season delayed, page 5
PRSRT STD U. S. Postage PAID Permit NO. 87 Blaine, WA 98230
Finalized primary election results, page 15
Birch Bay to celebrate berm completion
By Grace McCarthy
(See Hornets, page 8)
s People walk their bikes on the newly complete Birch Bay berm path on a warm summer afternoon. The berm task force is in the process of drafting recommendations for an ordinance that details permitted recreational uses of the berm path. Whether bikes and e-bikes will be allowed is still in discussion Photo by Ian Haupt
Berm ribbon-cutting ceremony on August 21 By Ian Haupt When Roland Middleton approached the line to shake Wolf Bauer’s hand at his 100th birthday party, he was trying to think of what he could say to the Northwest mountaineer, environmentalist and hydrologist to make Bauer remember him. Bauer had been shaking hands and catching up with renowned mountaineers, like Jim Whittaker, the first American to summit Mt. Everest, and other high-ranking professionals from around the world. Middleton had met Bauer as a Western Washington University geology undergrad
when Bauer came to discuss beach restoration and give a tour of the beach at Birch Bay, which he had recommended be replaced with a sand and gravel berm. More than 30 years later, at the birthday party, Middleton had been working with Whatcom County on the berm project for over 15 years. “Roland, did you get Birch Bay done?” the 100-year-old asked. It was 2012, and Middleton had nearly 10 more years of work left on the project that was adapted from the man’s work. Stammering to find an answer, Middleton replied, “Ah, well we’re working on it Wolf.”
Increased Covid-19 tests delaying results By Grace McCarthy As Covid-19 cases in Whatcom County reach pandemic highs, Whatcom County testing providers are seeing double the demand for testing, likely attributed to the Delta variant and people needing a test to travel into Canada. “The need for PCR tests prior to crossing the border has exacerbated an already increasing rate of testing in our community,” Whatcom County health director Erika Lautenbach said during an August 11
media conference. Whatcom County Covid-19 cases have increased about 500 percent in the past month, a surge that lagged behind other counties that experienced higher numbers earlier in the summer, Lautenbach said. During the week of August 9, Lautenbach said Covid-19 cases were the fourth highest since the pandemic. The health department is urging all residents to slow down the spread of the virus by getting vaccinated, avoiding indoor and outdoor crowded spaces and wearing face
masks in public. Face masks are required for people unvaccinated and recommended for people who are vaccinated because they can still spread the virus. Washington State Department of Health (DOH) data shows all age groups in the county are experiencing higher Covid-19 cases, with the highest among 25-44 year olds. “It’s incredibly concerning given the fact that there are very few hospitals in the (See Covid-19, page 3)
Back in 1975, Bauer recommended the Birch Bay community have the county restore the beach, which was excavated in the 1950s for the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers to build the Blaine Air Force Station and other facilities. The beach lacked sediment and was composed mostly of riprap and groins. Bauer proposed a design that would reestablish the beach profile while improving flood protection. More than 45 years later and five years after Bauer’s death, Middleton can safely say he got it done. (See Berm, page 6)
INSIDE
Many might have cheered at the eradicated Asian giant hornet nest last year, but the fight against the invasive species isn’t over in Whatcom County. The first live Asian giant hornets found in 2021 were recently detected in east Blaine, just two miles from where the first nest in the U.S. was eradicated in October, and scientists are now looking for a nest. On August 11, a worker hornet was photographed preying on a paper wasp nest under the eaves of a house near H Street Road, according to the Washington State Department of Agriculture (WSDA) map of reported hornet sightings. The state agency confirmed the sighting August 12. “This hornet is exhibiting the same behavior we saw last year – attacking paper wasp nests,” WSDA managing entomologist Sven Spichiger said in a statement. “If you have paper wasp nests on your property and live in the area, keep an eye on them and report any Asian giant hornets you see. Note which direction they fly off as well.” State entomologists captured a live worker hornet August 12 and August 13 on the homeowner’s property and another on the neighboring property, WSDA public engagement specialist Karla Salp said. In attempt to track the two hornets back to their nest on August 13, scientists placed radio tags on the hornets, fed them strawberry jam for energy before flying and then released the hornets. The hornets stayed in the area for a couple of hours before they flew away. On August 14, the scientists found one of the radio tags that wasn’t attached to a hornet. By press time, scientists were still searching for the second radio tag but were being slowed because of dense vegetation. WSDA is hoping to also track the radio tag from a drone, instead of by foot as entomologists did to find the first east Blaine nest in 2020. Once activated, WSDA says the radio tags last up to two weeks.
Coming Up . . . . . 14 Classifieds . . . . . 11 Letters . . . . . . . . . 4 Police . . . . . . . . . 14 Tides . . . . . . . . . . 14
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The Northern Light • August 19 - 25, 2021
Covid-19 in Whatcom County, by school district boundaries: Recent two-week case rates, cumulative counts and vaccinations Lynden Blaine Vaccination: 48% Vaccination: 62% Case rate: 334 Case rate: 312 New cases: 52 New cases: 42 Ferndale Meridian Vaccination: 59% Vaccination: 59% Case rate: 258 Case rate: 196 New cases: 68 New cases: 11
Nooksack Valley Vaccination: 43% Case rate: 252 New cases: 22 Mt. Baker Vaccination: 42% Case rate: 255 New cases: 27
Bellingham Vaccination: 71% Case rate: 267 New cases: 210
Picnic With A Purpose Wednesday, August 25 • 11:30 am - 1 pm Blaine Senior Center • 763 G Street, Blaine
Get a delicious take-away BBQ lunch & swag bag filled with resources and programs. Suggested donation $5 or whatever is affordable Proceeds benefit the Blaine Senior Center
Sponsored by Whatcom Council on Aging
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 August 14. PeaceHealth St. Joseph Medical Center Covid-19 hospitalizations are continuing to increase, with 37 people admitted for Covid-19 on August 17, 12 more than last week. Whatcom County has had 469 confirmed and probable Covid-19 cases since last week and 11,178 total since the start of the pandemic, according to August 16 Washington State Department of Health data. The number of Covid-19 deaths in the county remains at 109. The Blaine school district area has the second highest Covid-19 case rate in the county at 312 cases per 100,000 people. Lynden has the highest case rate with the third lowest vaccination rate.
Covid-19 case rates increased in every school district area. Blaine school district has had 42 confirmed cases since last week. Blaine school district had the highest hospitalization rate in the county with 21 people per 100,000 hospitalized with confirmed cases of Covid-19. Right now, 53.2 percent of the state’s total population is fully vaccinated and 62.4 percent of people eligible for the Covid-19 vaccine are fully vaccinated. Washington state has had 517,214 confirmed and probable cases since the start of the pandemic (21,857 cases in the past week). In all, 6,269 people in Washington with the virus have died (82 in the last week). In the
state, 28,979 people have been hospitalized (1,903 in the last week and more than double the previous week). For more Whatcom County information, visit whatcomcounty.us/covidvaccine and whatcomcounty.us/coviddata. State information is available at bit. ly/3r2URJj. For CDC data, visit bit.ly/39Kt4qh.
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August 19 - 25, 2021 • thenorthernlight.com
Covid-19 ...
From page 1 state that have capacity so if you get into an accident, if you break an arm, if you have a heart attack, there are not places where we can easily transfer people to have those urgent and emergent needs met,” Lautenbach said. Lautenbach said she’s concerned how the Northwest Washington fair in Lynden and school starting will impact Covid-19 cases. The health department is in discussion with other local health jurisdictions and the Washington State Department of Health about mask mandates, but no decision has been made. Northwest Laboratory in Bellingham analyzes Covid-19 tests taken at the low-barrier, community testing site at Bellingham International Airport that is run in partnership with the health department. The lab, which has analyzed over 2 million Covid-19 tests nationwide, also offers Covid-19 testing at its Bellingham office and in Burlington. Northwest Pathology, the parent company for Northwest Laboratory, chief operating officer Jennifer Bull said, in some cases, the increased testing demand happened overnight in late July. The sharp increase in testing started July 26, Bull said, doubling tests from 300 to 600 daily at Bellingham International Airport, the largest testing site in Whatcom County. “Our highest volume days were in November or December and then it declined during the beginning of the year and now we’re starting to see those numbers again,” she said. The Burlington testing location went from an average of 30-40 tests per day in July to over 200 tests practically overnight at the end of July, Bull said. Bull said it’s difficult to determine how much of the increased
testing demand is due to the Delta variant versus travel. About 9 percent of Covid-19 testing is given to people with Canadian addresses, Bull said, but it’s difficult to know the number of U.S. residents seeking testing for travel because people can say they have a Covid-19 symptom so their insurance covers the testing cost. Most insurance plans don’t cover travel testing and testing costs $180, or $135 if paid with cash, according to Northwest Laboratory. “It is difficult to parse out the underlying causes as summer travel, the reopening of the Cana-
dian border to non-essential travel, and the rise in cases are happening simultaneously,” WCHD communications specialist Jennifer Moon said in an email to The Northern Light. Moon said half of people making appointments at the Bellingham airport indicated travel as their reason for testing, but the appointment system does not ask the travel destination. On August 1, Lummi Tribal Health Clinic stopped offering Covid-19 tests for people using the test to cross into Canada.
3
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The Northern Light • August 19 - 25, 2021
Letters
The Northern L ght The Northern Light is published weekly by Point Roberts Press Inc. Locally owned and managed, the company also publishes the All Point Bulletin, covering Point Roberts, Mount Baker Experience, covering the Mt. Baker foothills area, Pacific Coast Weddings annual guide, and the summer recreation guide Waterside as well as maps and other publications. Point Roberts Press Inc. is a member of the Washington Newspaper Publishers Association, Chambers of Commerce of Bellingham/ Whatcom County, Birch Bay, Blaine and Point Roberts and the Bellingham/ Whatcom County Convention and Visitors Bureau. The opinions expressed by contributors are their own and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the editors. Letters Policy The Northern Light welcomes letters to the editor. Please include name, address and daytime telephone number for verification. Letters are limited to 350 words and may be edited or rejected for reasons of legality, length and good taste. Thank-you letters are limited to five individuals or groups. Writers should avoid personal invective. Unsigned letters will not be accepted for publication. Requests for withholding names will be considered on an individual basis. Consumer complaints should be submitted directly to the business in question or the local chamber of commerce. Only one letter per month from an individual correspondent will be published. Email letters to letters@thenorthernlight.com. Publisher & Managing Editor Patrick Grubb publisher@pointrobertspress.com Co-publisher & Advertising Director Louise Mugar lmugar@pointrobertspress.com Editor Grace McCarthy grace@pointrobertspress.com Reporter Ian Haupt ian@pointrobertspress.com Reporting 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 10 Circulation: 10,500 copies
Circulation Independently verified by:
Next issue: Aug. 26 Ads due: Aug. 20
The Editor: The Friends of Birch Bay Library and the Whatcom County Library System are dedicated to bringing a library to Birch Bay. A 2016 service area analysis and a 2017 online survey confirmed the need for a library. It would serve the 8,000-plus-andgrowing population, including more than 1,800 children. The proposed library will be named the Birch Bay Vogt Community Library to honor the Vogt family who lived on the future library site since 1871. A library offers much more than just books – although they are an important part of any library. It also offers access to computers and the internet; provides public meeting spaces; gives storytimes and job training programs; is a warm and cozy place to browse audiobooks, movies, and music, and do homework. The estimated total cost of this full-service library is $6.5 million. Supporters have secured donations and a $2 million state appropriation to reduce the total amount still needed. A Library Capital Facilities Area (LCFA) ballot measure will seek that funding in the November 2, 2021 election. If approved, the $.11 per 1,000 assessed value would cost the owner of a median-priced home in the LCFA approximately $3.20 a month. More information is available at friendsofbirchbaylibrary.org and WCLS.org/ birch-bay. Ruth Higgins Blaine The Editor: Two years ago, when I bought my house in Birch Bay Village, our agent casually mentioned a plan to build a library. I was pretty excited since I have loved libraries ever since I was a kid, hanging out with my friends after school, taking home armloads of books to read. In fact, my first job that my parents didn’t get me, about a thousand years ago, was at the main branch of the Brooklyn Public Library. Imagine my delight to find out that a library is planned for Birch Bay in the most beautiful spot I’ve ever seen for a library. I can hardly wait. Libraries bring so much to communities – books that practically cry out to be read; and, also, homework help, skills training, meeting places for businesses, cultural and entertainment activities for all ages. This library even has plans for teen librarians to be mentors. Everything about it sounds great.
I know there’s a vote coming up on November 2 on a measure that will allow this library to be built. I plan to vote “yes” and encourage all of my neighbors to do the same. Holly Witte Birch Bay The Editor: I read this morning that masks are not required in indoor spaces at the recently opened Northwest Washington Fair, let alone outdoor spaces. How can this be? Today I also read that the current infection rate in Whatcom County qualifies as “high,” namely 168 infections per 100,000 people. Fair attendance typically exceeds 100,000. Thus we can expect 168 new infections from the fair alone, unless more stringent mitigations are put in place. Requiring masks is a simple and effective means to protect fairgoers and everyone they come in contact with subsequently. Schools are opening in a couple of weeks. Let’s not start the school year with an influx of new infections that could have been reduced substantially by this one simple change. The health of our children and our community is at stake, including, in some cases, their very lives. My fair committee decided about two weeks ago that we didn’t want to expose our volunteers to the Delta variant, despite the Covid precautions we planned for. Therefore, we did not purchase a booth as we have in years past. By not fully protecting the volunteers and workers, I believe the fair and the county are opening themselves up to liability lawsuits from anyone who gets infected over these next 10 days or so. Time is of the essence. If you agree, I encourage readers to make your opinion known to Whatcom County Council, your state representatives, state senator and fair administration. At the very least, please wear a mask yourself if you visit the fair. Nancy K. Sheng Bellingham The Editor: I am dismayed by reports that many of our public health officials as well as frontline healthcare workers are being disrespected instead of appreciated. They are trying to protect us, our children and our grandchildren from this predatory virus – at considerable risk to themselves. They deserve our deepest thanks. Here’s a shout out to our overworked,
dedicated healthcare heroes. We owe you, big time. Myra Ramos Lummi Island The Editor: Primary care providers (PCP), listen up. This is something you must hear. Results from a large retrospective analysis found that over 80 percent of patients, nationwide, had not had undergone kidney function tests in the primary care setting. That is a shocking number, but somewhat defensible given that early kidney disease has few outward symptoms. Many of these patients were not diagnosed until their disease was advanced, requiring transplantation or dialysis. Because of the “silent epidemic” that is chronic kidney disease (CKD), here in Whatcom County, the general public is beginning to see efforts to increase awareness about the incurable condition. Primary care providers must be more proactive in testing for CKD in at-risk populations. CKD can sometimes be prevented, and if caught early, its progression can be slowed or stopped altogether. The kidneys are overlooked organs. Most of us seldom, if ever, give them a thought. But, kidneys start working in a 12-14 week old fetus. The kidneys are remarkable, quietly engaged doing their duty, day and night. Most of us don’t know they are involved in every breath we take. Our kidneys are responsible for completing miraculous tasks. The kidneys are just as important to life as hearts and lungs. So, let’s give kidneys the respect they deserve. Not all kidney diseases can be avoided, but because diabetes and high blood pressure are the top causes, primary care professionals at PeaceHealth, Family Care Network, SeaMar and other clinics must seize opportunities to improve kidney diagnosis, which will increase awareness, patient engagement and better outcomes. PCP should mention the miracle of kidneys to their pediatric patients, too. Early discussions lead to improved quality of life. But, patients must do their part – ask your PCP for kidney function tests. Delores Davies Ferndale Please send letters to letters@thenorthernlight.com no later than noon on Monday.
Birch Bay library will be on November ballot B y E mi l y F e e k A question of establishing a Birch Bay Library Capital Facility Area (LCFA) will be on the November ballot. If the ballot measure passes, Whatcom County Library System (WCLS) says the library construction could begin in 2022 and the new li-
brary could open in 2023. The LCFA ballot measure would increase Birch Bay property taxes to fund the library building if passed. Taxes would increase by about 11 cents per $1,000 of assessed value, slightly lower than a previously estimated 13 cents per $1,000. This means the owner of a $350,000 Birch Bay
property would pay $3.20 per month, or $38 annually, according to the WCLS. The ordinance was introduced at the July 13 Whatcom County Council meeting and passed on July 27 with no discussion. Birch Bay’s population is expected to increase by 50 percent in the next two decades.
Civic Meetings Birch Bay Water & Sewer District: Second and fourth Thursdays, 4 p.m., district offices, 7096 Point Whitehorn Road, Birch Bay. Info and Zoom meeting link: bbwsd.com.
Blaine-Birch Bay Park and Recreation: Second Tuesday, 5:30 p.m., location varies. Info: bbbparkandrec.org. Virtual meeting info: bbbparkandrec.org/board-meetings.
Blaine City Council: Second and fourth Mondays, 6 p.m., Blaine City Council chambers, 435 Martin Street. Info and virtual meeting login: ci.blaine.wa.us.
Blaine Park and Cemetery Board: Second Thursday, 9 a.m., virtual meeting. Info: 360/332-8311, ext. 3330.
Blaine Planning Commission: Second and fourth Thursdays, 6 p.m. Info: blainepc@cityofblaine.com. Info for joining Zoom meetings: bit.ly/2CiMKnk.
Blaine School Board: Fourth Monday, 7 p.m., Blaine school district offices. Info and virtual meeting link: blainesd.org. North Whatcom Fire & Rescue: Third Thursday, 1 p.m. Info: nwfrs.net.
August 19 - 25, 2021 • thenorthernlight.com
Crabbing delayed two days Washington State Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW) delayed starting recreational crab season in Marine Area 7 North, which encompasses Blaine, two days until Saturday, August 21. The Swinomish Indian Tribal Community requested the state delay the season following the death of Swinomish tribal elder Lorraine Loomis. Loomis, who died August 10 at the age of 81, served as the Northwest Indian Fisheries Commission chairperson and Swinomish fisheries manager. Loomis became fisheries manager following the 1974 Boldt decision reaffirming treaty fishing rights and became commission chairperson in 2014 after Billy Frank Jr.’s death. Postponing the season allows Swinomish tribal co-managers time to adjust and prosecute previously planned fisheries, according to a WDFW statement. The season will be open Thursday through Monday every week until Monday, September 27. It will be open daily September 2830. Marine Area 7 North includes Blaine, Point Roberts and Bellingham. The daily limit is five Dungeness crabs per day, six red rock crabs per day and six tanner crabs per day. For more information on recreational crabbing regulations, visit the WDFW website at bit.ly/3jZR3FZ.
READ LOCAL HERE. THENORTHERNLIGHT.COM
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Allied Arts gallery deadline August 25 Allied Arts of Whatcom County is looking for local artists who want to showcase their work in the non-profit’s 2022 exhibits. The application deadline is 5 p.m. Wednesday, August 25. The art organization is seeking multimedia and multidisciplinary artists with an expertise in everything from sculptures to wall hangings. No exhibition ex-
perience is needed. Judges will base submissions on originality, subject matter and use of medium, according to Allied Arts. Allied Arts is located at 1418 Cornwall Avenue in Bellingham and works to support emerging Whatcom County artists. Exhibits run about one month and have a few artists. Ninety per-
cent of the showcased art must be for purchase, and Allied Arts will take 40 percent commission. With few exceptions, all art must be created no more than two years ago. To enter a submission, visit alliedarts.org/call-to-artists. Artists must be a $75 Allied Arts business level member for their work to be displayed.
Up to $1,200 is available for fall quarter aid and students who apply for FAFSA or Washington Application for State Financial Aid (WASFA) can receive up to $2,300 more in aid during the 2021-22 academic year, according to WCC. More opportunities for winter and spring quarter aid will be available later in the year. Visit whatcom.edu/emergencyfunds to apply for the CARES Act aid. Application language assistance is available by emailing foundation@whatcom.edu. For more information on more schol-
Monday, August 23 5:00pm – Presentation by
Tuesday, August 24 3:00pm – Civil Service Commission Meeting *CANCELLED*
arships the community college offers, including one to help families unable to afford internet, visit whatcom.edu/fundingoptions.
SHOP, EAT AND READ LOCAL
Thursday, August 26 6:00pm – Planning Commission Meeting Public Hearing: Marine Park Shoreline Restoration - Shoreline Substantial Development Permit.
Monday, September 6 City Offices Closed – Labor Day 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
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NOTICE OF GRANT REQUESTS CITY OF BLAINE TOURISM GRANT PROGRAM
Due to Governor Inslee’s proclamation in response to COVID-19, this City Council meeting will be conducted in-person and telephonically. Information on how to 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 location may change.
Whatcom County Health Department 5:45pm – Planning Commission Interview 6:00pm – City Council Meeting
Whatcom Community College offers $5.1 million in CARES funding Whatcom Community College (WCC) announced students may receive up to $2,300 of $5.1 million in CARES Act funding is readily available for students to use during the upcoming academic year. The priority deadline is September 7, but students can apply until October 5. Current, new, returning, international and high school Running Start students are all eligible for the emergency funding, according to an August 5 news release. Funds are available starting fall quarter and all students are encouraged to apply. “Paying for college can be a significant barrier that prevents people from seeing themselves at Whatcom Community College,” WCC president Kathi Hiyane-Brown said in a statement. “These funding opportunities help ensure the community has access to high quality, affordable education. Anyone interested in taking a class at WCC is encouraged to explore these funding opportunities and apply.”
CITY OF BLAINE
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The Immigration Law Firm •• 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
The City of Blaine is now accepting grant applications for 8050 Harborview (at Birch Bay Dr.) 2022 tourism related proposals. Grant applications are 360-371-7233 available on the City’s website www.cityofblaine.com or by www.blaineimmigration.com• •435 435Martin MartinSt., St., Suite Suite2010 1010 ••Blaine, emailing Alex Wenger, Economic Development & Tourism www.blaineimmigration.com Blaine,WA WA birchbay.worldbibleschool.org Coordinator at awenger@cityofblaine.com. Applications Leonard D.M. Saunders, Attorney at Law Leonard D.M. Saunders, Attorney at Law must be emailed to Alex Wenger by 4 p.m. Thursday, September 16. For questions please email or call (360)5439979. Please note grant funding levels have been reduced due to the lasting impacts of COVID-19. “Thank you for your terrific local news coverage!” - Don and Patricia Thompson
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The Northern Light • August 19 - 25, 2021
BERM TIMELINE
Berm ...
A brief history of the Birch Bay Drive and Pedestrian Facility Project
From page 1
The Birch Bay Chamber of Commerce will hold a celebration for the Birch Bay berm from 11:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Saturday, August 21. Following the ribbon-cutting ceremony at noon, a walking poker run will be held along the berm 1:30-3:30 p.m. Participants will visit checkpoints, drawing a card at each one with the objective to have the best poker hand at the end of the course. It’s a free, non-gambling, family-friendly event, and prizes will be given to participants with the best poker hands. Participants will also learn berm history while competing. The berm, officially called the Birch Bay Drive and Pedestrian Facility Project, is a 1.6-milelong beach restoration project that will add sand and gravel to the beach to protect the road from storm surges. Over the years, Birch Bay Drive and surrounding properties have experienced flooding and other damage whenever a king tide mixed with strong winds enters the bay. The worst occurred in December 2018 when the storm tore up one lane of the roadway, forcing it to remain closed for six months until it was repaved. That storm cost the county $5 million in damage, mostly in the Birch Bay, Point Roberts, Kendall and Maple Falls areas. Middleton said previous storms, while not incurring nearly as much damage, would throw large logs, some 2 feet in diameter, and other debris onto the road that would require large machinery to clean up. He said this was because the existing riprap did not slow the waves. Waves would crash onto and over the riprap, throwing debris onto the road and sometimes opposing properties. With the natural beach profile – what Bauer envisioned for Birch Bay – the roadway and properties are more protected, Middleton said. Waves that roll onto the beach slow incoming waves as they roll down the beach into the ocean. Driftwood and beach rock are then displaced on the beach but not thrown onto the roadway, he said. While the berm wasn’t yet completed, it proved proficient this January when a king tide and strong winds hit the bay. Some beach debris was strewn onto Birch Bay Drive but Whatcom County public works confirmed the berm was performing as it should and no project would prevent all of the damage from these winter storms. Middleton said the project benefits the ecology, economy and safety of the community. Because of this, he said he saw pro-developers and pro-environmentalists come together under a common goal. “That’s what I think I will remember about this project more than anything – is the people in Birch Bay who cared so deeply about their community,” Middleton said. “Even if they dis(See Berm, page 9)
Sources: Whatcom County planning documents, permits and staff.
10,000 YEARS AGO
1950-52
Phase 1 of a feasibility study for the berm is completed.
JUNE 6, 2015 Open house #2
1986
2007
Phase 2A of feasibility study, which included a preliminary cost estimate, is completed.
DEC. 2012
The combination of a storm and a high tide flood Birch Bay Drive and damage Via Birch Bay Cafe and Bistro.
MARCH 2014
LATE 2013
Discussions with Reid-Middleton break down and the county terminates its contract and hires Environmental Science Associates to replace Reid-Middleton as lead engineer.
ReidMiddleton begins preliminary engineering.
The county once again announces that construction on the berm will not start in the fall, citing easement negotiations and permitting issues.
SEPT. 2017
Whatcom County announces, for the second time, that the project will be postponed due to difficulties with easement negotiations and permitting issues.
JULY 2016
Planned date to have needed right of way negotiations complete, according to schedule presented at the third open house.
AUG. 2020
Construction restarts in phase 2.
APR. 2020
Whatcom County budget cuts – to prepare for an expected revenue shortfall due to the coronavirus – do not affect project construction.
SEPT. 2020
JAN. 2020
Granite Construction starts adding sediment to the beach. Project scheduled to finish in spring 2021. Granite Construction agree to not work between Memorial Day and Labor Day as to not disrupt Birch Bay’s summer tourism season.
Public works request additional $500,000 for the project’s budget. Public works staff says extra funding will serve as insurance in the case of any issues that arise causing a possible change or delay in construction.
NOV. 2020
Limestone path completed on the south end of the berm.
County officials confirm that construction will be delayed another year. Construction was previously planned to begin in September 2016.
Property easement negotiations stall due to third-party property value appraisals taking longer than expected. Easements about one-third complete in November 2016.
JAN. 2019
A windstorm and tidal surge ripped up asphalt and damaged several waterfront businesses along Birch Bay Drive. The storm did $5 million in damage throughout the county, mostly in Birch Bay, Point Roberts, Kendall and Maple Falls. One lane of Birch Bay Drive remained closed for six months after the storm.
Granite Construction finishes the first of two rounds of construction.
SEPT. 2016
NOV. 2016
DEC. 2018
MAY 2020
Whatcom County selects Reid-Middleton as the project’s lead engineer. Whatcom County staffers hope the project will start in fall 2014.
A letter from Whatcom County to Birch Bay Drive property owners says burying utility lines along the length of the berm will be part of the project. Later in 2013, Reid-Middleton estimates that burying the lines would cost $25 to $30 million, far more than the cost of the berm project itself, and the county drops that from the plan.
Whatcom County and Environmental Science Associates hold the third of three open houses and present a 90 percent level design for the project that includes a schedule for construction.
60 percent level surveying and engineering plans complete.
JAN. 2013
MARCH 2013
FEB. 1, 2016
SEPT. 24, 2015
JUNE 2018
A flood spurs community and governmental review of the infrastructure at Birch Bay Drive.
Whatcom County establishes a fund for the Birch Bay Drive and Pedestrian Facility Project.
Planning for the project gets underway and county officials estimate that it will be finished by about 2020.
Whatcom County and Environmental Associates holds the first of a series of three open houses on the project to gather public feedback on the berm and walkway design. More than 100 people attend.
1982
Whatcom County commissions a preliminary engineering study that estimates the project, including burying utilities, will cost roughly $2.3 million.
OCT. 2012
JULY 2012
NOV. 8, 2014
The Birch Bay Drive and Pedestrian Facility Project is included in Whatcom County’s Birch Bay Comprehensive Plan.
1984
A test section of berm just north of the mouth of Terrell Creek is completed and is effective with ongoing maintenance.
The beach is “renourished” with sand and gravel eight times during this period, according to a 2006 study by Coastal Geologic Services and others.
A request for the berm project is made in the 2004 Birch Bay Subarea Plan, which is adopted by the Whatcom County Council as a part of the Whatcom County Comprehensive Plan in September 2004.
1977
A report by hydrologist Wolf Bauer recommends a sand and gravel berm to replace ineffective seawalls and groins and restore the beach at Birch Bay. The current design is adapted from Bauer’s work.
1989-1998
2004
2006
1975
The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers excavates between 200,000 and 300,000 cubic yards of gravel and sediment from Birch Bay for the Blaine Air Force Station and other facilities, creating a “sediment deficit” in Birch Bay.
Coast Salish people begin visiting summer villages at Birch Bay for clamming, crabbing, fishing, foraging and hunting.
Timeline graphic by Doug De Visser
JAN. 2021
NOV. 2019
Whatcom County public works awards an $8.7 million contract to Granite Construction to build the berm.
Public works says the berm performed well – protected Birch Bay Drive – during a storm with high tides and strong winds. The storm caused flooding in areas not protected by the berm and threw some debris onto the roadway.
The Lummi Indian Business Council signs off on the cultural resources section of the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) permit, at the time called the biggest remaining hurdle for the project. The county also still needed to complete one easement negotiation, but the property owner’s approval hinged on the NEPA permit.
APRIL 2019
Whatcom County hearing examiner Michael Bobbink approves the shoreline substantial development permit, clearing the way for construction to begin.
FEB. 2021
Granite Construction workers finished importing 205,000 tons of material for the berm.
MAR. 2021
Granite Construction finished the pedestrian path and all other landscaping and paving. The berm nears completion with only minor additions, like signs and finish striping, left.
August 19 - 25, 2021 • thenorthernlight.com
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The Northern Light • August 19 - 25, 2021
Hornets ... From page 1
In addition to the two hornets captured, WSDA has also seen a few more hornets flying around the area, Salp said. The east Blaine homeowner who photographed the hornet declined to comment until the nest is found. State entomologists eradicated the first Asian giant hornet nest found in the U.S. in a tree near Burk Road October 24, 2020. Last year, a homeowner helped entomologists locate the nest after spotting multiple hornets feeding on paper wasps on his home and tracking the direction the hornets flew. WSDA is reminding the public that it is important to not kill the hornet, and instead, track the direction it flies to help entomologists locate the nest. Half of the hornets found last year in the U.S. came from public reporting and all of the hornets in Canada were found last year from public reporting. Although state entomologists
hailed the nest eradication as a victory, they considered it found just in the nick of time because mated queens will leave the nest in late fall to find their overwintering spot and eventually start their own colony in the spring. “If any queens had already left the nest, it was a few and very early,” Spichiger previously said after the eradication. “As far as we can tell, we got there just in time.” WSDA plans to run DNA testing on the hornets to determine if they originated from last year’s nest, Salp said. The state agency eradicated the nest at dawn, when the most hornets were expected to be there, but officials said they still expected a few stragglers. Eight hornets were found in east Blaine after the eradication: Three queens, one male and one worker found October 29, 2020; a male hornet removed from a trap October 30, 2020; a live male captured November 1, 2020; and a live male hornet November 12, 2020. The invasive species was first sighted in Whatcom County in 2019 and can grow up to 2 inch-
es long. The orange-and-black worker hornets emerge in late summer to forage for protein, when they are known to decapitate honeybee hives in a matter of hours. In addition to honeybees, analysis from the east Blaine nest showed the invasive species was also preying on flies, yellow jackets, dragonflies, butterflies and moths. Paul van Westendorp, provincial apiculturist for B.C., said additional traps were scheduled to be set August 16 since the sighting was only a half-mile from the border. He noted it will be hard for the hornets to survive if they reproduce within the same colony. “It’s very overwhelmingly likely the current nest or nests originated from the nest that was destroyed,” van Westendorp said. “It will be a big challenge from a biological perspective and we will do our darndest to make it the hardest for them to survive.” B.C. has not had any confirmed hornet sightings in 2021. WSDA is also looking for the public to allow WSDA staff to set traps on properties east of Blaine,
s WSDA entomologists feed an Asian giant hornet strawberry jelly before attempting to track the hornet to its nest on August 13. Photo courtesy WSDA
north of Lynden and west of Sumas. Whatcom County residents can contact WSDA about the traps by emailing Cassie Cichorz at ccichorz@agr.wa.gov with their
contact information and address. To report a hornet sighting, visit the WSDA website at agr. wa.gov/hornets, email hornets@ agr.wa.gov or call 800/443-6684.
ADVICE FROM THE P Q: Can you build a house or farm
on any property that is for sale?
A: This is an excellent question that we get all
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of the time. The short answer is maybe. There are many variables involved including zoning, easements, water, septic, and utility availability and costs, wetland and drainage requirements. Water rights and soil type also need to be considered before planning a farm. As a buyer, it is your responsibility to research and know your options before buying. However, we can guide you and help you find the answers. Please reach us at Peace Arch Real Estate. We provide real estate services to sellers and buyers of Homes, Land, and Farms.
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Q: I am confused on what test is required to cross the Canadian border? A: It can be confusing. At this time they are requiring a
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PCR nasal test. You must present a negative result to the border and the test must have been completed within 72 hours. This can cause a problem depending upon where the test was done. Many of the free providers use labs that are not fast enough to get the results in time. You really need to ask and make sure they are going to have results within 24 to 48 hours. NW Labs is an excellent provider and they charge $189. Their lines can be long at times. However, we do Covid testing by appointment only and have a drive through option, no lines, no waiting and we have never missed the deadlines needed to cross the border. We have also decided to match NW Labs pricing of $189. We also have a Rapid Test with results within 10 minutes that tests for the antibodies in your system so that you can fight off the virus. This is only $49. Conveniently located on Birch Bay Dr at the Sandcastle Resort. Call for your appointment for a no line, no wait and on time experience.
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Commercial property insurance covers physical property damage to a business as a result of an event, such as a fire. It also covers damage to merchandise and equipment in the location of the business, whether the business owner owns or rents the location. If the damage is extensive, it may take time for the business to get back to operational performance. During this waiting period, while the physical business is being restored, revenue can decline significantly or stop altogether. Business income coverage provides insurance for the loss of business income due to damage to physical property during a covered event. While the business is being repaired, called the restoration period, business income coverage will help pay for additional expenses and lost income. As with most insurances there are exclusions to be aware of. Most commonly for business income those are loss by earthquake or flood, certain operating costs (marketing, R&D, etc) and pandemics. Speak with your agent for specific details about your policy.
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Advice
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August 19 - 25, 2021 • thenorthernlight.com
Berm ... From page 6
agreed about how the community should grow or not grow, it was nice working with a group of individuals that just deeply cared.”
Since Bauer’s 1975 recommendation, decades of planning, studying, surveying, engineering and seeking of funds followed until Whatcom County public works awarded Granite Construction an $8.7 million contract in November 2019 and con-
s Beachgoers enjoy low tide on a sunny Birch Bay afternoon. Photo by Ian Haupt
struction began January 2020. Completed in two rounds of construction with a summer break, Granite finished the project in March 2021. Granite imported 205,000 tons of sediment for the berm, and the project has ended up costing nearly $16 million. “It’s been one of those career projects,” Middleton said. “I will never see another one, and I will never do another one.” But there is still some work left to do in the area. Public works will monitor the vegetation and replant in any areas where the plantings fail to grow. The chamber of commerce has formed a berm task force that is working on recommendations for an ordinance designating what the berm path will be used for, whether it will be pedestrian only or a pedestrian and bicycle trail. Middleton also said the plan next year is to repave Birch Bay Drive. The berm was a significant dream and desire of the Birch Bay community, Middleton said. “And it’s been a pleasure to be a part of
PROS
s Whatcom County public works project manager Roland Middleton and Northwest mountaineer, environmentalist and hydrologist Wolf Bauer at Bauer’s 100th birthday party February 2012. Courtesy photo all that. “It’s a career project, but it’s really a legacy project,” he said. “This is something that I looked
forward to walking on with my grandkids. It’s one of those big projects that only come around once or twice in a career.”
A Special Section of published monthly on the 3rd Thursday of the month
Q: Can I opt out of the new WA State Long Term Care tax? A: The Washington State Long Term Care Trust Act was passed into law in 2021. The new law mandates a tax on all employee’s wages to pay for long term care benefits for Washington state residents. The tax will begin January 1, 2022.
Some citizens prefer to have private Long Term Care insurance instead of through the state. Here is how to opt out of the state program. • Obtain a private long-term care policy through a private insurer by November 1, 2021 • Apply for an exemption from the state between October 1 and December 31 attesting that you have long-term-care insurance at the time of your application • Show your employer the letter from the state that says your exemption has been approved to avoid the tax. The tool to opt out of the state program will be available on the WA CARES FUND website at www.wacaresfund.wa.gov starting October 1, 2021.
Q: Is now a good time to refinance? A: Yes.
Interest rates are very low, and they should remain that way through the end of the year. Talk to a lender to see if it makes sense to refinance while considering your current rate and situation. Taking equity out for improveLoren Adkins ments, consolidation of bills, or refinancing to Senior Real Estate improve the Rate and Term on a current balLoan Officer ance, can all make sense. Plenty of options exNMLS# 643779 Office: (360) 647-4425 ist, and the process is more streamlined than you might think. You may not even need an Cell: (360) 303-8599 loren.adkins@peoplesbank-wa.com appraisal.
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Q: Should I contribute to my company’s
Q. I have a sports injury. If I wait
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A:
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Jordan Crim, DPT Physical Therapist Capstone Physical Therapy
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or years and is not getting better with rest, this could be a chronic injury. These injuries often appear to go away with rest but when you increase your activity level, it returns. These problems often need a skilled rehabilitation program to help the tissue return to full function. If you have a chronic injury from a sport or daily life, you will benefit from an evaluation and individualized treatment plan at Capstone Physical Therapy. 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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Deka Wiebusch CFP® AIF® CRPC®
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Traditional advice in our industry has told young savers and lower wage earners to contribute to the aftertax Roth 401(k). However, in my practice, I have seen clients with tax deferred retirement accounts that are worth a million or multi millions. This can potentially create a tax issue in retirement because required minimum distributions can force clients into larger taxable incomes. If there is room in the budget or if you have room in your current tax bracket, it may be more beneficial for you to contribute a percentage of tax deferred contributions to the after-tax Roth 401(k). If your balance in your tax deferred 401(k) is high, we recommend you meet with a CFP® or CPA® to strategize on the most tax advantageous plan for you. At Skyline Advisors, we can help you with planning for today and tomorrow’s tax issues. Skyline Advisors, LLC is a Registered Investment Adviser. Past performance is no guarantee of future returns. Investing involves risk and possible loss of principal capital. No advice may be rendered by Skyline Advisors, LLC unless a client service agreement is in place.
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10
Pets & Pet Care
The Northern Light • August 19 - 25, 2021
Best Photo Clips, Tips and products for a healthier, happier pet!
How a pet owner can manage separation anxiety for their pet For more than a year, working from home and keeping social circles small due to Covid-19 has meant people have been able to spend more time with their pets. However, as more Americans are vaccinated and restrictions loosen across the country, it’s likely many are spending less time at home with their pets. As a result, pet parents should be prepared to spot the signs of separation anxiety and help their pets manage. When left at home alone, pets can exhibit behaviors that could indicate they’re experiencing separation anxiety. It’s not a new problem, but it can become more pronounced as pet parents begin to spend less time at home, whether they’re returning to work full-time or just leaving the house more often. It may be especially challenging for pets that found their forever homes during the pandemic, as being alone may be a stark contrast to what they’ve become accustomed to. In these cases, pets may struggle to learn how to cope with being by themselves. To help pet parents identify separation anxiety in their pets and embrace alone time, consider these tips from Dr. Crista Coppola, PetSmart’s consulting animal behaviorist and separation anxiety expert.
How to identify separation anxiety Changes in behavior are some of the most common indicators of separation anxiety. These behaviors are coping mechanisms and can include excessive barking or whining, destruction near exit points or windows, having accidents around the house, hyper salivating, pacing, decreased appetite and depression. To better understand what your pet is experiencing, consider setting up a video camera when you leave to see how he or she behaves when you’re not there. Ways to prepare your pet for separation Unpredictability has been shown to add stress for many animals, including dogs, Coppola said. Routines, however, can help many pets cope with stressful situations. Because a vacation or long weekend getaway involves a change in your pet’s routine, these seemingly small changes can make him or her susceptible to separation anxiety. If you know change is coming, slowly introduce your pet to the idea of being alone beforehand to help your four-legged friend prepare. Start by taking short trips outside your home without your pet – even if just for a few minutes
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– and consider leaving treats or toys to help make the alone time more enjoyable. When you are ready to leave the house, set up a cozy, inviting space for your pet, where he or she can’t destroy items or get hurt trying to escape. Consider a non-carpeted area in case of accidents or install a doggie door to allow for going outside when necessary. Prior to any period of alone time, mentally and physically engaging your pet by going for a walk or run, or working on quick trick training, can make it more likely he or she spends at least some of the time you’re gone resting. While you’re gone, Coppola recommends providing your pets with enrichment activities such as puzzles, chews and calming aids like the Adaptil Calm On-the-Go Dog Collar. Calming vests like the veterinarian-recommended Thundershirt can also help pets transition. Solutions for coping with anxiety If your pet is excessively bark-
ing or exhibiting destructive behaviors, never punish him or her and avoid expressing disappointment or frustration, Coppola said. It is understandable to feel this way, but it can upset your pet further and add to the stress he or she may already be feeling. Instead, spend time having fun together when you are home and consider an option like PetSmart’s Doggie Day Camp, which can help ease the transition by grad-
ually introducing your pet to the amount of time left alone. Available at more than 200 locations in full- or half-day sessions - including themed playdates - your furry friend will receive expert care, exercise, mentally stimulating playtime and socialization with other pups. Learn more and find additional solutions to help deal with separation anxiety at petsmart.com/ newnormal.
To submit Pet Paparazzi photos... Email: editor@thenorthernlight.com
ADOPT A PET! We’re looking for good homes! To adopt one of us please call our Adoptions department at (360) 733-2080
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August 19 - 25, 2021 • thenorthernlight.com
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IN THE SUPERIOR COURT OF THE STATE OF WASHINGTON IN AND FOR WHATCOM COUNTY In re the Estate of: PETER JESS WEYHRICH, Deceased. No. 21-4-00598-37. NOTICE TO CREDITORS. Judge Robert E. Olson The Administrator named below has been appointed and has qualified as Administrator of this estate. Any person having a claim against the decedent must, before the time the claim would be barred by any otherwise applicable statute of limitations, present the claim in the manner as provided in RCW 11.40.070 by serving on or mailing to the Administrator or the Administrator’s attorney at the address stated below a copy of the claim and filing the original of the claim with the court in which the probated proceedings were commenced. The claim must be presented within the later of: (1) thirty days after the Administrator served or mailed the notice to the creditor as provided under RCW 11.40.020(1)(c); or (2) four months after the date of first publication of the notice. If the claim is not presented within this time frame, the claim is forever barred, except as otherwise provided in RCW 11.40.051 AND 11.40.060. This bar is effective as to claims against both the decedent’s probate and nonprobate assets. Date of Filing of Notice to Creditors: August 6, 2021 with Clerk of Court: Date of First Publication: August 12, 2021 Name of Administrator: SCOTT MICHAEL WEYHRICH 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: August 5, 2021 AVERY ELDER LAW, P.S. STEVEN D. AVERY, WSBA #35262 Attorney for Administrator SCOTT MICHAEL WEYHRICH www.averyelderlaw.com
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CITY OF BLAINE MAINTENANCE AND OPERATIONS MANAGER Salary Range: $7,079 to $8,954 per month plus 5% deferred compensation and benefits. Please go to the City’s website, www.cityofblaine.com, for more details on the position and how to apply.
Legal IN THE SUPERIOR COURT OF THE STATE OF WASHINGTON IN AND FOR THE COUNTY OF Whatcom In Re the Estate of: Darryl L. Ehlers, Deceased. NO. 21-400596-37. PROBATE NOTICE TO CREDITORS (RCW 11.40.030). JUDGE: Evan P. Jones The personal representative named below has been appointed as personal representative of this estate. Any person having a claim against the decedent must, before the time the claim would be barred by any otherwise applicable statute of limitations, present the claim in the manner as provided in RCW 11.40.070 by serving on or mailing to the personal representative or the personal representative’s attorney at the address stated below a copy of the claim and filing the original of the claim with the 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: August 5, 2021 Personal Representative: Louise J. Ehlers 2366 Halverstick Road Lynden, WA 98264 Attorney for the Personal Representative: Katti Esp 301 Prospect Street Bellingham, WA 98225 Address for Mailing or Service: Katti Esp 301 Prospect Street Bellingham, WA 98225 Court of Probate Proceedings Superior Court of Whatcom County and Cause Number: Cause No. 21-4-00596-37.
IN THE SUPERIOR COURT OF THE STATE OF WASHINGTON IN AND FOR WHATCOM COUNTY In re the Estate of: SUSAN EILEEN ZEUFELDT, Deceased. No. 21-4-00594-37. NOTICE TO CREDITORS. Judge Robert E. Olson The Administrator named below has been appointed and has qualified as Administrator of this estate. Any person having a claim against the decedent must, before the time the claim would be barred by any otherwise applicable statute of limitations, present the claim in the manner as provided in RCW 11.40.070 by serving on or mailing to the Administrator or the Administrator’s attorney at the address stated below a copy of the claim and filing the original of the claim with the court in which the probated proceedings were commenced. The claim must be presented within the later of: (1) thirty days after the Administrator served or mailed the notice to the creditor as provided under RCW 11.40.020(1)(c); or (2) four months after the date of first publication of the notice. If the claim is not presented within this time frame, the claim is forever barred, except as otherwise provided in RCW 11.40.051 AND 11.40.060. This bar is effective as to claims against both the decedent’s probate and nonprobate assets. Date of Filing of Notice to Creditors: August 6, 2021 with Clerk of Court: Date of First Publication: August 12, 2021 Name of Administrator: GAIL LITTLE 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: August 5, 2021 AVERY ELDER LAW, P.S. STEVEN D. AVERY, WSBA #35262 Attorney for Administrator GAIL LITTLE www.averyelderlaw.com
Legal
Legal
IN THE SUPERIOR COURT OF THE STATE OF WASHINGTON IN AND FOR THE COUNTY OF WHATCOM
BLAINE–BIRCH BAY PARK AND RECREATION DISTRICT #2
No. 21-2-00755-37 SUMMONS BY PUBLICATION ROLAND DUMONT, PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE OF THE ESTATE OF LYDIA BALANE KREEFT, DECEASED; Plaintiff v. ESTATE OF JACOB KREEFT, DECEASED; ROBERT KREEFT, IN HIS INDIVIDUAL CAPACITY, IF LIVING, AND IF DECEASED THE UNKNOWN HEIRS AND DEVISEES OF ROBERT KREEFT; LEENDERT JACOB KREEFT, IN HIS INDIVIDUAL CAPACITY, IF LIVING, AND IF DECEASED THE UNKNOWN HEIRS AND DEVISEES OF LEENDERT JACOB KREEFT; PAUL HENDRIKUS KREEFT, IN HIS INDIVIDUAL CAPACITY, IF LIVING, AND IF DECEASED THE UNKNOWN HEIRS AND DEVISEES OF PAUL HENDRIKUS KREEFT; JACOB PETER KREEFT, IN HIS INDIVIDUAL CAPACITY, IF LIVING, AND IF DECEASED THE UNKNOWN HEIRS AND DEVISEES OF JACOB PETER KREEFT; THE UNKNOWN HEIRS AND DEVISEES OF JACOB KREEFT; JANE DOE KREEFT, IN HER INDIVIDUAL CAPACITY AND MARITAL ESTATE, IF LIVING, AND IF DECEASED THE UNKNOWN HEIRS AND DEVISEES OF JANE DOE KREEFT; AND ALSO ALL OTHER PERSONS OR PARTIES UNKNOWN CLAIMING ANY RIGHT, TITLE, INTEREST, ESTATE, OR LIEN IN THE REAL PROPERTY DESCRIBED IN THE COMPLAINT HEREIN, Defendants. TO THE DEFENDANTS: ESTATE OF JACOB KREEFT, DECEASED; ROBERT KREEFT, IN HIS INDIVIDUAL CAPACITY, IF LIVING, AND IF DECEASED THE UNKNOWN HEIRS AND DEVISEES OF ROBERT KREEFT; LEENDERT JACOB KREEFT, IN HIS INDIVIDUAL CAPACITY, IF LIVING, AND IF DECEASED THE UNKNOWN HEIRS AND DEVISEES OF LEENDERT JACOB KREEFT; PAUL HENDRIKUS KREEFT, IN HIS INDIVIDUAL CAPACITY, IF LIVING, AND IF DECEASED THE UNKNOWN HEIRS AND DEVISEES OF PAUL HENDRIKUS KREEFT; JACOB PETER KREEFT, IN HIS INDIVIDUAL CAPACITY, IF LIVING, AND IF DECEASED THE UNKNOWN HEIRS AND DEVISEES OF JACOB PETER KREEFT; THE UNKNOWN HEIRS AND DEVISEES OF JACOB KREEFT; JANE DOE KREEFT, IN HER INDIVIDUAL CAPACITY AND MARITAL ESTATE, IF LIVING, AND IF DECEASED THE UNKNOWN HEIRS AND DEVISEES OF JANE DOE KREEFT; AND ALSO ALL OTHER PERSONS OR PARTIES UNKNOWN CLAIMING ANY RIGHT, TITLE, INTEREST, ESTATE, OR LIEN IN THE REAL PROPERTY DESCRIBED IN THE COMPLAINT HEREIN, YOU, AND EACH OF YOU, ARE HEREBY SUMMONED to appear within sixty (60) days after the date of first publication of this Summons, to wit; within sixty (60) days after the 5th day of August, 2021, and defend the above-entitled action in the above-entitled court, and answer the Verified Complaint of the Plaintiff ROLAND DUMONT, PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE OF THE ESTATE OF LYDIA BALANE KREEFT, DECEASED and serve a copy of your answer upon the undersigned attorney for Plaintiff, Mark W. Stowe of Stowe Law PLLC at their office stated below; and, in case of your failure to do so, judgment will be rendered against you according to the demand of the Verified Complaint in this action, which has been filed with the Clerk of said Court. The object of this action is to quiet title in the Plaintiff to real property located in Whatcom County, Washington, described as: The West one-half of the West one-half of the Northwest Quarter of the Northwest Quarter of Section 24,Township 40 North, Range 3 East of the W.M., EXCEPT the West 30 feet deeded to the County for Road Purposes under Auditor’s Nos.1159172 and 1185884. SITUATE IN WHATCOM COUNTY, WASHINGTON against any and all claims of the Defendants and any one of them, and as otherwise stated in said Verified Complaint. DATED this 30th day of July 2021. By: Mark W. Stowe, WSBA# 16655 Attorney for Plaintiff Stowe Law PLLC P.O. Box 129, 276 Boundary Bay Road Point Roberts, WA 98281 Phone (360) 945-0337 Email: stowelawpllc@outlook.com
FIND IT IN THE CLASSIFIEDS
11
REQUEST FOR QUALIFICATIONS CIVIL ENGINEER:
PARKING LOT AND TRAILHEAD DEVELOPMENT AND STORMWATER MANAGEMENT PLAN California Creek Estuary Park Project August 12, 2021 Background/Introduction 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 BBBPD. 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 civil engineer firms or individuals to help develop and finalize the plans for a new trailhead and parking lot for approximately 50 cars as well as a separate two car pull-out. The parking lot will be located at 4677 Drayton Harbor Road, Blaine, which was previously a residential lot with a house, outbuildings and a driveway. The two-car pull out will be located on 4656 Drayton Harbor Road and will use the existing driveway approach. The pull-out will be used to access the kayak launch that will be located on the California Creek Estuary and will need to be large enough for two cars to park and turn around. Additional project features include a camp host site (30’x20’), public restroom (20’x30’), trails to a kiosk and from the kiosk to the kayak launch, and one or two picnic shelters. Along with finalized on-site plans, the engineer will also develop a stormwater management design and a stormwater design report. Description of Services – Scope and Deliverables The intent of this RFQ is to select a consultant with the best qualifications to work with BBBPRD to revise and finalize a site plan that meets Whatcom County parking area code requirements while minimizing impact on surrounding wetlands and trees. The designed site plan will include a grading plan and details, temporary erosion and sedimentation control plan and details. The engineer will also determine which BMP will be used for stormwater management, develop a stormwater design, and produce a stormwater design report. The LID - BMP will be designed in accordance with the Stormwater Management Manual for Western Washington (Ecology Manual) and will follow the Whatcom County Development standards for the Drayton Harbor Special District. This project has funding through a grant from the Recreation and Conservation Office. SUBMITTAL DEADLINE 5:00 pm (local time) Fri, August 27, 2021 SUBMIT Original plus 2 copies to: Blaine-Birch Bay Park and Recreation District 2 7511 Gemini Street Blaine, WA 98230 PROJECT CONTACTS Ted Morris, Director 360-319-7663 tmorris@bbbprd2.com or Heidi Holmes, Office Manager 360-656-6416 info@bbbprd2.com NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARINGS CITY OF BLAINE PROPOSED ANNEXATION OF 4.89 ACRES, Boundary Review Board FOR WHATCOM COUNTY File No. 2021-02 NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the Washington State Boundary Review Board for Whatcom County will hold two Public Hearings; the preliminary/procedural hearing on Wednesday, September 1, 2021 at 7:00 p.m. and a substantive hearing on Wednesday, September 8, 2021 at 7:00 p.m. The hearings will take place at Northwest Regional Council, Lakeway Conference Room, 600 Lakeway Drive, Bellingham, WA 98225. The purpose of the two public hearings is to consider the proposed annexation, submitted by the City of Blaine to annex 4.89 acres. The Boundary Review Board conducts all meetings in accessible facilities. Any person needing special accommodations to participate in the meetings should contact Boundary Review Board staff at (360) 6766749 extension 1055 or (800) 585-6749 48 hours in advance of the scheduled meetings.
The BLAINE–BIRCH BAY PARK AND RECREATION DISTRICT #2 recently announced a REQUEST FOR PROPOSAL for a CIVIL ENGINEER:PARKING LOT, TRAILHEAD DEVELOPMENT AND STORMWATER MANAGEMENT PLAN for the California Creek Estuary Park Project. This proposal has been retracted a new Request for Qualifications (RFQ) will follow.
12
The Northern Light • August 19 - 25, 2021
Handyman
Garage Sales
BOOK SALE Fri. & Sat., Aug. 20 & 21. 10am-6pm. 323 Clark Street, Blaine. Lots of Dean Koontz, Clive Cussler & many more. 25¢ per paperback, $1 per hardcover.
Plumbing
Pets PA M P E R - YO U R - P E T S with PetNanny Petsitting! Professionally petsitting since 2002. Licensed and insured. Former veterinary asst., CPR and First Aid certified. Numerous references. Call Gina at 360-631-1336.
DOWNSIZING! Fri, Sat & Sun, Aug. 20-22, 9-3, 21 Boundary Court. Blaine. Clothing, new tires, household items & more!
Business Services 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.
LIST YOUR GARAGE SALE HERE!
Real Estate
BLAINE, BIRCH BAY & SEMIAHMOO
Windermere Real Estate/Whatcom Inc. 8105 Birch Bay Square St. #101, Blaine, WA I-5 Exit 270 • 360.371.5100
For the health & safety of our clients, Windermere Real Estate is pleased to follow the State of Washington’s mandate to not hold Open Houses. We are, however, available to show you your dream home by virtual tour or private appointment. Please call your Realtor for assistance.
L I S T I N G S - B I R C H B AY
7910 Birch Bay Drive #3
MLS #1804027 $279,000 Welcome to Birch Bay. Enjoy miles of warm sandy beaches, Bike rides with low speed limits, or just walking along the new promenade enjoying some of the most spectacular Sunsets in the Pacific Northwest. Complex has 100 feet of private waterfront centrally located in the middle of all the fun. Easy Walk to restaurants, live music, beaches, water slides, festivals. This unit has been recently remodeled with new granite counters, bamboo floors, cabinets, paint, baths.
Billy Brown 360-220-7175 or Tonya Wahl 541-707-0196
4807 Fir Tree Lane MLS #1820400 $419,000
Jim Huleatt 360-319-0061
8160 Comox Road
Mike Kent 360-815-3898
Jen Freeman 360-815-0803
LISTINGS - BLAINE
LISTINGS - BIRCH BAY
MLS #1812807 $725,000 Beautiful Birch Bay & Mt Baker views from this quality “Johnson Construction” built home in the Pacific Northwest’s premier guard-gated community of Birch Bay Village. Fabulous Master on main w/jetted tub & also main floor guest suite, 2 more bedrooms & 2nd kitchen downstairs. 2 gas fireplaces, slab granite kitchen, large garage. Full width deck to relax & entertain. Ideal home for multi-generational living with addl. full guest suite arrangement in daylight basement, lots of storage & the list goes on.
5097 Fern Street
MLS #1810137 $625,000 Simply stunning sunsets! Here’s the Birch Hard to find cabin situated in the heart of Bay gem you’ve been waiting for...flexible Birch Bay! Take a short stroll to your un- floor plan creates a fantastic work from divided interest in the waterfront to enjoy home scenario or vacation rental opporsummer beach time fun or take in the sun- tunity in this sought-after beach location. set. This home is listed as a one bedroom, 2010 construction features upscale finbut it has a 344 square foot loft that serves ishes: maple hardwood & laminate flooring, as additional play area or a second bed- granite counters, custom cabinetry with soft room. The beautiful pine wood, ceramic tile close drawers, under cabinet lighting, movand the gas fireplace with stone chimney able kitchen island, cozy gas fireplace, 9’ & lend to the cozy cabin appeal. Homes in this vaulted ceilings, heat pump, super insulatarea do not come up often! ed, 18’x14’ Trex deck/stairs & Hardie siding.
2787 H Street Rd
MLS #1822420 $889,000 Everything is new in this completely remodeled well-built home on exceptional 10-acre parcel perfectly situated between Blaine & Lynden. Private asphalt drive welcomes you to the amazingly unique location of this traditional-styled home. 2021 remodel brings the finest level of finish to a home that already had “great bones”. All the new colors--freshly painted inside & out. White cabinets-quartz counters-all new appliances & LVP throughout. Classic floor plan that lives with a timeless design.
Kathy Stauffer 360-815-4718
4970 Morgan Drive
MLS #1808249 $389,000 Very cute Cottage by the sea. 2 bedroom, 1 bath, carport 1160 sq. ft. Roof one year old with new interior paint and carpet. One bedroom has newer laminate flooring. You will feel charmed by this sold block home with family room addition that opens up to a very spacious fenced back yard. Great location to the center of Birch Bay. Living room and family room. Propane forced air heat, wood stove, utility room. Fenced backyard with some storage. Enjoy all Birch Bay amenities. See pictures @ briansouthwick.com.
Brian Southwick 360-815-6638
4823 Alderson Road #105
MLS #1812705 $130,000 Ideally located, affordable commercial space in the heart of Birch Bay. 15 min drive from I-5 & 2 minute walk from the beach, this is a perfect spot for a medical, dental, retail or office space. This unit is a finished with ADA Bathroom, finished waiting room/ office in the store front, located in a highend building with residential condos and townhouses above. Don’t miss this opportunity to buy and build your business Buyer to verify all information. Dues are $257 per month and cover water, sewer and garbage
Matt Berry 360-389-0104
F E AT U R E D L I S T I N G S - S E M I A H M O O
Peace Portal Drive MLS #1810366 $335,000
5388 Goldfinch Way
MLS #1823671 $1,369,000 A view from every room! You know you are The location says it all. High visibility corner in the Pacific Northwest when you see the between Peace Portal Dr and Interstate 5 morning sunrise over the snowcapped Caplus only minutes from the Canadian border. nadian coastal range & the majestic beauty The sale includes two properties totaling of towering fir & cedar trees from the floatjust over 2 acres. The property has water, ing deck of this custom designed home. sewer and power available off street making Comfortable & casual the south-facing front for ease of hookup and development. Zon- porch is warm & inviting. Lush, easy care ing is highway commercial, light industrial terraced landscape beckons you to the waallowing for almost unlimited use. Buyer to ter’s edge. Miles of walking trails brings you verify zoning and land use with Blaine Plan- to the resort for a spa day, the marina to sail out on the Bay or the private golf course. ning & Development.
Gerry Allen 360-920-0563
Kathy Stauffer 360-815-4718
5500 Puffin Place
MLS #1814578 $300,000 Welcome to gated community on Puffin Place, special Semiahmoo location, with panoramic view potential. Only 3 single family homesites left. This 28,899 sq ft. +/home site is over 1/2 acre. A rare find! Looking back to Drayton Harbor, Semiahmoo Marina, the Inn at Semiahmoo, Heath Spa & fitness center, Canadian mountain range & city lights of Blaine Washington and Whiterock Canada. Enjoy all the amenity potential from the Inn to the Marina, Semiahmoo Golf. See pictures @ briansouthwick.com.
Brian Southwick 360-815-6638
8060 Niska Road
MLS #1813089 $575,000 Great location atop the hill with views of Mt. Baker and Birch Bay. The home was built by a dedicated wood loving craftsman. You will not find a home like this anywhere in the Village. Sit on your ample deck and enjoy the sunrise over Mt Baker and the glow of the evening sunset all while overlooking “The Bay” The huge lot boasts mature landscaping including a Madrona tree. Inside you’ll enjoy a newly remodeled kitchen, newly installed flooring and many updated touches. One-of-a-kind Birch Bay Village view home.
Greg Flint 360-220-0551 ELIZA ISLAND
42 Eliza Island
MLS #1772844 $750,000 Let these spanning views of Bellingham Bay take you away. This beachfront, no-bank, tideland-rights cabin is located on the uber private Eliza Island. The best-kept secret in the San Juan Islands! This northwest-facing home has so much to offer, including an OutBack solar/battery-powered inverter system, propane, & instant hot water tank to keep all the comforts of home at your fingertips. Beautiful touches throughout, such as Hickory & Montana Slate flooring, granite & Brazilian Cherry counters.
Brandi Coplen 360-201-3951
www.windermere.com R E A L E S TAT E
5846 Semiahmoo Drive • Blaine, WA 98230 MLS #1800512 • $1,250,000
Nestled in a park-like setting on the Semiahmoo Peninsula, welcome to 5846 Semiahmoo Ridge! This amazing custom home on 3/5 acre exudes privacy, warmth, and natural beauty. The views from each window are like paintings in a gallery, including breathtaking sunset panoramas of Georgia Strait and Vancouver Island. This 4 BD, 4.5 BA home has 9-ft vaulted ceilings, lovely moulding, wood-burning stoves, & a light & bright kitchen. There is a possible mother-in-law suite above garage, with its own private entrance. Park your RV and boat in the circular driveway next to the 3 car garage. Walking distance to Semiahmoo Park & Resort, with all its amenities. Watch sunsets & nature from huge deck & beautiful yard.
Julia Mullenix 360-820-2630
7650 Birch Bay Drive W5 • Blaine, WA 98230 MLS #1817362 • $360,000
Want to live every day like you are on vacation at the beach? Don’t miss out on this rare, south-facing, front-row, Bay Rim condo. Stroll across the road from your patio to a gated, 227 ft private beach, or just relax in your living room and watch beautiful sunsets on the bay. Walk the newly constructed berm & walking trail along Birch Bay to your favorite restaurants, candy shop, & beach stores. Swim in the bay or in the Bay Rim heated pool. This move-in ready 2 BD, 1.5 BA has an open floor plan, wood burning stove, great lighting and views from both levels. Crabbing, clamming, sunsets, and swimming await! Perfect property for vacations or yearround living. Bay Rim amenities ..
978 Peace Portal Drive
529 Fielding Ct • Bellingham, WA 98229 MLS #1817922 • $875,000
Stunning modern home located in the south side of Bellingham. Sitting on a large lot with fantastic views of Sehome hill, this 3 BD, 3 BA home features an open floor plan with high end finishes throughout. Large custom kitchen with Corian countertops, two-tone cabinets, all new appliances and french doors leading to a private deck. Master bedroom with huge walk in closet, and a beautiful bathroom with spa shower. The light and bright main living space has maple floors throughout, rock fireplace with live edge mantle and floor to ceiling windows. Downstairs features a second living space, bedroom and full bath. Located in a quiet neighborhood, surrounded on three sides with green space, this immaculate home wont last long.
Brianna Robbins 360-220-4770
Julia Mullenix 360-820-2630 3 Lots on Birch Bay Lynden Road!
3052 Birch Bay Lynden Road Custer, WA MLS #1758090 $120,000
3054 Birch Bay Lynden Road Custer, WA MLS #1758097 $120,000
Call Hugh : 360.371.5800 Your Local Expert For All Real Estate, Residential Or Commercial Services! Hugh Brawford, Managing Broker
www.CallHugh.com
Rentals - Commercial
Retail/ Office Space
Rare Opportunity to own property off I-5. Adjacent parcels also for sale totaling 17 acres. Land is presently in a tree farm with mostly Birch trees and some conifers. Very shallow wells in this area. Sandy soils for septic. Buyer must continue open space taxation at closing! 3050 Birch Bay Lynden Road Custer, WA MLS #1758034 $120,000
8361 Beach La Mar Dr. 3BR 2BA, 1,680 s.f. Manufactured home, new roof, new hot water heater, new vinyl siding. $395,000
FOR LEASE
Sam Randhawa 360-224-6934
View more listings at: www.peacearchrealestate.com Rentals - Rooms
Rentals -Residential
FURNISHED ROOMS in historic home, incl. amenities, NS, pet friendly starts at $600/mo. + deposit, references required. 360-332-3449.
Waterfront 3BR, 2BA penthouse apartment overlooking Blaine Harbor and Marine Park. Master ensuite with jacuzzi bath. 1200 s.f. with large decks off every room. Full kitchen with granite countertops. Panoramic views of Mt. Baker, downtown Blaine, marina, Semiahmoo, San Juan Islands, Point Roberts, Peace Arch, White Rock and North Shore mountains. Walking distance to downtown Blaine. W/D, fiber optic internet available. $2900/mo. References, background check required. Call Pat Grubb at 360-332-1777 or email pgrubb@mac.com
With Waterfront Views of Blaine Harbor
380 - 800 s.f. Prime ground floor and 2nd floor office and retail space in The Northern Light Cannery-style building at Blaine Harbor.
For leasing info, contact Pat Grubb
360/332-1777
NELSON BUILDING 925 Ludwick Ave., Blaine
LEASE SPACES FOR:
Warehousing-Distribution Manufacturing or Retail Vehicle Storage Yards Near Truck Route & Shopping Mall COMING AVAILABLE 4550 Sq. Ft.
Call: 360-305-0286 Email nelsbldg@msn.com
August 19 - 25, 2021 • thenorthernlight.com
OBITUARIES
Road Rules: Biking in pairs
Edgar Earl Pears Sr.
By Doug Dahl
Darryl G. Giffen
May 6, 1935–August 13, 2021
Question: I have had some vigorous discussions about bike etiquette with my die-hard biking friends. My question is about RCW 46.61.770 “Riding on roadways and bicycle paths.” Section (1) says ride as far to the right as possible if traffic is going faster than the cyclist, and Section (5) says riders may ride no more than two abreast. This seems contradictory to Section (1) for the rider to the left when two are abreast. Can riders ride two abreast on a county highway? Answer: Can two opposing ideas both be true? Philosophers and scientists have debated this question; Einstein theorized that it’s a fundamental structure of the universe. But that’s about as far as I go with quantum physics, so let’s start with a look at the law. Yes, the law allows cyclists to ride two abreast on the road. Actually if we want to get technical about it, the law sets a limit, stating, “Persons riding bicycles on a roadway shall not ride more than two abreast.” And yes, the same law states “every person operating a bicycle on the roadway at a rate of speed less than the normal flow of traffic shall ride as near to the right side of the right through lane as is safe.” I would like to point out that in your question you wrote “ride as far to the right as possible.” The law requires cyclists to ride as far to the right “as is safe.” Sometimes it might be the same thing, but often it’s not. The law isn’t asking cyclists to put themselves at risk with their lane position; quite the opposite. So when can you ride sideby-side? Clearly, it’s fine for the speedy riders who can ride with the normal flow of traffic (which is probably only the fastest riders on roads with our slowest speed limits). I’d argue that it’s okay to ride side-by-side when there’s no traffic (how can there be a normal flow of traffic if there’s no traffic?). You can also ride two abreast on the shoulder, if it’s wide enough, as the definition of “roadway” in the law excludes the shoulder. As to whether you can always ride two abreast, I’ll concede that the law does seem a bit contradictory (or at least unclear). However, I can think of a few situations where, even in traffic, riding sideby-side might be the safer (and thus, legal) choice. For example, an adult riding with a younger rider might stay side-by-side to make sure a driver doesn’t pass too close to a less experienced (and less stable) rider. Staying two abreast might increase visibility for drivers, so they have more time to see and respond to bikes on the road. On some roads there isn’t room to pass a cyclist within the lane, so moving from two abreast to single file might send the wrong message to drivers that the cy-
Edgar Earl Pears Sr. went home through the gates of heaven and into the arms of Jesus, his Lord and Savior, on August 13, 2021 in Lynden, at the age of 86. Edgar was born in Spokane, WA on May 6, 1935 to father Fabian Lewis Pears and mother Helen Cora (Campbell) Pears. He is survived by his beloved wife Shirley LaRayne (Larsen) Pears. They were married 66 years, this September would have been their 67th anniversary. Edgar also leaves behind 4 children; son Edgar “Eddie” (Randi) Pears Jr.; daughter Sherrie (Les) Devilliers; son Douglas Fabian (Adele) Pears; daughter Melanee (Mark) Mulholland ; 11 grandchildren and 18 great-grandchildren. Edgar in his younger years worked as a fireman on the Spokane International Railroad as his father Fabian did. Edgar’s uncle Edgar also worked on the railroad but died in WWI in France. He later found his true calling in sales. As a salesman he rose to the top of each company he worked for. Edgar later established his own sales and marketing company which was his passion and excelled in. Edgar’s hand shake was his contract and word with those he did business with. Edgar was a man of faith, integrity, compassion, humor and always had an encouraging word mixed with humor and loved his family deeply. He also had a deep compassion for the less fortunate and people living on the streets. He was also a licensed ordained minister since 1956. We will all miss his laughter, practical jokes, one-liners and of course the stories he would tell. The family would like to express our deepest appreciation to all the staff at Christian Health Care Center in Lynden including the hospice nurses for the love and compassion they showed on a daily basis to him. In lieu of flowers and gifts we ask that a donation to the Lighthouse Mission in Bellingham be made in honor of him. Donate to www.thelighthousemission.org. Please share your thoughts and memories online at, sigsfuneralservices.com.
1/24/1963-7/24/2021
Darryl Giffen, age 58, of Apache Junction, AZ, passed away suddenly in Birch Bay on July 24, 2021. He was born in Red Deer, Alberta and moved with his family to Birch Bay in 1972. Darryl graduated from Blaine High School in 1981. He then worked with his dad in the family business. Darryl moved to Arizona in 1987 and worked in the R.V. industry until 1994. He ventured out and started his own R.V. repair service (RV Doctor). Darryl owned and operated a very successful business for 27 years. He loved his work and had many loyal customers. He was a Mr. Fix It. Golfing, traveling, four-wheeling, motor cycling, hiking and birding were his greatest joys. Darryl was very outgoing and made lifelong friends everywhere he went. Mention a party and he was there. Darryl is survived by his father Don (Kathy) Giffen; mother Janet Reddick; sister Deanna Hutchings; sidekick and loving brother Dale (Sheila) Giffen; stepbrothers Jason (Laurie) Muggy of Springfield, Oregon, and Brent (Tiffany) Muggy of Belmont, California; as well as all of Birch Bay. He is also survived by one special nephew Brayden (Kimberlee) Giffen of Birch Bay and his dear niece Brooke Giffen of Mesa, AZ. Brayden and Brooke always called him Uncle DoDo, which became his call name by many other family members and friends. A celebration of Darryl’s life will be held at a later date. There are some people in life that make you laugh a little louder, smile a little bigger and live just a bit better. Darryl was one of those. He will be sadly missed by family, friends and all that knew him. To share your memories and sign Darryl’s online guestbook, please visit www.molesfarewelltributes.com.
C e l e b r at i o n
of
life
Eileen Lillian (Nagy) Donaghy February 1, 1943 – March 9, 2021
BUSINESS & PROFESSIONAL
DIRECTORY
Counseling and Personal Coaching Transformational Hypnotherapy
The family of Eileen Donaghy invite you to a celebration of her life on Saturday, August 21, 2021 at 4 p.m., at 8571 Shintaffer Road, Blaine. Bring a lawn chair.
C E L E B R AT I O N O F L I F E Elinor Blakely
co-creating rapid change for personal growth
Sept. 25, 1923 - May 4, 2020.
Evelyne L. Hendricks BA, LHT
Always in our hearts. The family of Elinor Blakely invite you to a celebration of her life on Saturday, August 28, 2021 at 1 p.m., at Grace Lutheran Church, Blaine.
360.739.5606 evelynehendricks@gmail.com
Proud supporters of the Blaine Community! 2011 Large Business Year of Whatcom County Formerlyof1stthePropane
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(See Road Rules, page 15)
13
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14
The Northern Light • August 19 - 25, 2021
Sheriff’s Reports Aug. 6, 6:05 p.m.: Traffic hazard on Maple Way. Aug. 6, 6:22 p.m.: Theft on Birch Bay-Lynden Road. Aug. 6, 11:30 p.m.: Noise on Harbor Drive. Aug. 7, 9:10 a.m.: Traffic hazard on H Street. Aug. 7, 3:38 p.m.: Civil problem on Sweet Road. Aug. 7, 7:06 p.m.: Hazard on Birch Bay Drive. Aug. 8, 12:26 a.m.: Suspicious vehicle on Lincoln Road. Aug. 8, 3:01 p.m.: Suspicious vehicle on Birch Bay-Lynden Road, Custer. Aug. 8, 4:45 p.m.: Suspicious person on Birch Bay Drive. Aug. 8, 5:30 p.m.: Juvenile problem on Leeside Drive. Aug. 8, 7:21 p.m.: Burglary on Surf Place. Aug. 9, 3:53 p.m.: Trespass on Blaine Road. Aug. 9, 3:56 p.m.: Theft on Tsawwassen Loop. Aug. 9, 4:31 p.m.: Fraud on Harborview Road. Aug. 9, 5:11 p.m.: Motor vehicle accident injury on Birch Bay-Lynden and Kickerville roads. Aug. 9, 8:29 p.m.: Domestic physical on Birch Bay Drive.
Aug. 9, 10:42 p.m.: Vehicle theft on Legion Drive. Aug. 10, 10:10 p.m.: Assault simple on Quinault Road. Aug. 11, 8:01 a.m.: Burglary on California Trail. Aug. 11, 9:37 a.m.: Domestic verbal on Harborview Road. Aug. 11, 2:46 p.m.: Trespass on Anderson Road. Aug. 11, 4:47 p.m.: Trouble with subject on Birch Bay-Lynden Road.
Police Reports Aug. 7, 12:18 p.m.: Felony assault on Cherry Street. Aug. 7, 1:29 p.m.: Cold civil matter on Harrison Avenue. Aug. 7, 5:44 p.m.: Vehicle collision on Sweet Road. Aug. 8, 3 p.m.: Verbal domestic on Marine Drive. Aug. 8, 3 p.m.: Mental health on Marine Drive. Aug. 9, 10:38 a.m.: Suspicious circumstances on 14th Street. Aug. 9, 2:32 p.m.: Collision on Peace Portal Drive. Aug. 10, 1:01 a.m.: Malicious mischief on Adelia Street. Aug. 10, 11:37 a.m.: Behavioral health on 8th Street.
Crossword ACROSS 1. Religion native to some in China 5. Nursemaids 10. Coats a porous surface 12. Garment of long cloth 14. Containing a broader message 16. University of Dayton 18. Patti Hearst’s captors 19. Insane 20. Bristlelike structures in invertebrates 22. Taxi 23. Trainee 25. Comedian Carvey 26. Some couples say it 27. Belong to he 28. High schoolers’ test 30. Young goat 31. You drive on one 33. Denotes a time long ago 35. Space between two surfaces 37. By and by 38. A way to sell 40. A line left by the passage of something
Aug. 11, 6:44 p.m.: Burglary on Quinault Road. Aug. 12, 10:47 a.m.: Theft on Birch Bay Drive. Aug. 12, 11:02 a.m.: Civil problem on Cedar Avenue. Aug. 12, 5:33 p.m.: Burglary on Custer School Road, Custer. Aug. 12, 6:08 p.m.: Domestic physical on Custer School Road, Custer. Suspect arrested on second degree assault charge.
41. Indicates near 42. Where wrestlers compete 44. Prosecutors 45. Body part 48. Soluble ribonucleic acid 50. Indicates silence 52. NFL’s Newton 53. Ancient Roman garments 55. Drunkard 56. Expression of satisfaction 57. Thus 58. Noisy viper 63. Plants of a particular region 65. Communicated with 66. Latches a window 67. Swarm with DOWN 1. Split pulses 2. Brew 3. Ask humbly 4. Distinctive smells 5. Digressions 6. Partner to cheese 7. Father of Araethyrea 8. Made a cavity 9. Tin 10. Appetizer
11. Presenting in detail 13. Compound in guano and fish scales 15. Cool! 17. “__ than a doornail” 18. Popular literary form __ fi 21. Be the most remarkable 23. “Final Fantasy” universe character 24. Buffer solution 27. Muslim physician using traditional remedies 29. Fantastical planet 32. S. American plant 34. Domesticated animal 35. The tops of mountains 36. Expression of disapproval 39. Skeletal muscle 40. Game show host Sajak 43. One’s interests 44. Identify the existence of 46. Partner to “oohed” 47. Does not accept medical help (abbr.)
Aug. 10, 5 p.m.: Found property on F Street. Aug. 10, 8:37 p.m.: Residential burglary on Vista Terrace Drive. Aug. 11, 10:55 p.m.: Auto recovery on 2nd Street. Aug. 12, 11:30 a.m.: Trouble with a person on Martin Street. Aug. 12, 5:19 p.m.: Vehicle collision on Peace Portal Drive. Aug. 12, 6:52 p.m.: Attempted theft on Semiahmoo Parkway. Aug. 13, 8:47 p.m.: Indecent exposure on H Street. Aug. 13, 8:54 p.m.: Residential burglary on Madison Avenue. Report by Blaine Police Department.
49. Hammerin’ Hank 51. Lowest point of a ridge between two peaks 54. Elaborately draped garment 59. Check 60. Car mechanics group 61. One point east (clockwise) of due north 62. Austrian river 64. A command to list files ANSWERS: THENORTHERNLIGHT.COM
Tides HEIGHT
TIME
Trivia at the Vault: Thursday, August 19, 7 p.m., 277 G Street. This week’s theme: local history. Info: thevaultwine.com. Live Music at The Vault: Friday, August 20, 7 p.m., 277 G Street. Featuring: The Song Wranglers. Info: thevaultwine.com. Garage Sale Fundraiser: Saturday, August 21, 9 a.m.–3 p.m., The Bridge Community Hope Center, 4815 Alderson Road. To donate, please call ahead 366-6783. Accepting smaller size donations August 18–21, furniture donations on August 21. Explore the Shore Beach Walk: Saturday, August 21, 11 a.m., Birch Bay State Park Heron Center. Free. Learn about the critters that call this shore their home. Learn clam identification and much more!. Info: fobbsp.org. Birch Bay Berm Celebration and Ribbon Cutting: Saturday, August 21, 11:30 a.m.–3:30 p.m. Ribbon cutting at noon on the beach across from Birch Bay Beach Park, 7930 Birch Bay drive. Poker run from 1:30–3:30 p .m. along the berm. Info: birchbaychamber.com. Live Music at Birch Bay State Park: Saturday, August 21, 3 p.m., Birch Bay State Park wildlife theater. Enjoy the big band sound with Bellingham Community Band. Free. Bring a blanket and picnic and enjoy the music. Info: fobsp.org. Family Service Center Backpack/School Supply Distribution: Wednesday, August 25, 10 a.m.–2 p.m., middle school gym at the corner of H and Mitchell streets. Families who have a need for supplies or would like more information about resources available through the Family Service Center are welcome. The Family Service Center will re-open for the 2021-2022 school year on Monday, August 23. Blaine School District Virtual Community Q&A: Wednesday, August 25, 6 p.m. Superintendent Dr. Christopher Granger answers questions from the community regarding the 2021-22 school year. Visit blainesd.org for the Zoom login information. To send questions in advance, please email questions@blainesd.org. Live Music at The Rustic Fork: Thursday, August 26, 6 p.m., The Rustic Fork Eatery, 442 Peace Portal Drive. Featuring Mark Williams and Thomas Sandblom. Info: therusticforkeatery.com. Trivia at the Vault: Thursday, August 26, 7 p.m., 277 G Street. This week’s theme: general knowledge. Info: thevaultwine.com. Live Music at The Vault: Friday, August 27, 7 p.m., 277 G Street. Featuring: JP Falcon. Info: thevaultwine.com. “Dive-in” Movie at Birch Bay Waterslides: Friday, August 27, gates open at 7:30 p.m., movie starts around 9 p.m., Birch Bay Waterslides, 4874 Birch Bay Lynden Road. Drive-in movie-style, showing Remember the Titans. Cost $20 per car. Purchase tickets at birchbaychamber.com. Flea Market Day at Blaine Market by the Sea: Saturday, August 28, 9 a.m.-2 p.m., Blaine G Street Plaza. Email info@blainechamber.com to sign up. Spaces $15, Kids under 16 and non-profit are free. Summer Farm Market: Saturday, August 28, 10 a.m.–4 p.m., Home Farm Upick & Events, 8020 Kickerville Road. Shop 40+ vendors, sunflower fields, music, tractor train and more. Free admission. Info: home farm.farm.
Summer Fun in the Park: Saturday, August 28, 5–10 p.m., Blaine Marine Park playground. Food trucks, beer and wine garden, live music by Gladstone. Free outdoor movie “School of Rock” at dusk.
49° 0’ 0”N - 122° 46’ 0”W TIME
Live Music at The Rustic Fork: Thursday, August 19, 6 p.m., 442 Peace Portal Drive. Featuring solo artist Ron Hardt. Info: therusticforkeatery.com.
Live Music at Birch Bay State Park: Saturday, August 28, 3 p.m., Birch Bay State Park BP Heron Center. Featuring: On The Loose playing a mix of rock, Western swing, blues and folk rock, country, and R&B from the 50s to the 90s. Info: fobbsp.org.
Aug 20 – 26 at Blaine. Not for navigation.
DATE
Coming up
HEIGHT
Fr 20 2:40 am 8.7 10:25 am -1.9
Hunters of the Sky: Saturday, September 4, 6 p.m., Birch Bay State Park wildlife theater. Experience live birds of prey up close. Watch as highly skilled trainers from the Sardis Raptor Center show off up to four different winged hunters and proved insight into identification, anatomy of flight, and the and raptor’s role in the environment. Info: fobbsp.org.
Su 22 12:08 am 5.9
4:48 am 8.5
Discover Birch Bay Days, Crab Derby & Poker Run: Saturday and Sunday, September 4 and 5, Birch Bay Vogt Library property, 7968 Birch Bay Drive. Saturday activities include pancake breakfast at 10 a.m., poker run from 1–3 p.m., crab derby, yard games, music, trivia, bingo, and book sale. Sunday activities include kids Olympics from 11 a.m.–1 p.m., kids crafts and activities, ducky derby, crab derby, and book sale. Info: birchbaychamber.com.
12:01 pm -1.5
7:21 pm 9.7
Ongoing
Mo 23 12:54 am 5.2
5:46 am 8.3
12:43 pm -0.9
7:51 pm 9.6
Tu 2 1:36 am 4.5
6:42 am 8.0
1:23 pm 0.1
8:19 pm 9.4
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 the Food Services page at blainesd.org for more information.
We 25 2:18 am 3.8
7:38 am 7.6
1:59 pm 1.1
8:45 pm 9.1
Th 26 2:58 am 3.2
8:34 am 7.3
9:09 pm 8.9
6:13 pm 9.7 11:18 pm 6.6
Sa 21 3:46 am 8.6 11:15 am -1.9
6:49 pm 9.8
2:37 pm 2.3
Weather Precipitation: During the period of Aug. 9-15, no precipatation was recorded. The 2021 year-to-date precipitation is 14.7 inches. Temperature: High for the past week was 88°F on Aug. 12 with a low of 57°F on Aug. 10. Average high was 75°F and average low was 67°F. Courtesy Birch Bay Water & Sewer Dist.
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. Blaine’s Market by the Sea: Saturdays, 10 a.m.–2 p.m., G Street Plaza. Featuring high quality arts and crafts vendors selling handcrafted merchandise. Info: cjsolomon07@comcast.net. Meals on Wheels: Thursdays 11:30 a.m.–12 p.m., Blaine Senior Center, 763 G Street. Adults 60+ pick up one hot and six frozen meals. Suggested donation $5 per meal or whatever is affordable. First come, first serve basis. Info: 360/332-8040. Toastmasters Virtual Meetings: Tuesdays 6:30–7:45 p.m. Entertaining and educational. Have fun speaking, learn to overcome fears. Info: Call Pete 360/933-1671 or email him at pcorcorran@gmail.com for the Zoom link. Movie Nights: Fridays, 8:15 p.m., Birch Bay Activity Center, 7511 Gemini Street. Playing family friendly movies. Bring a blanket or lawn chair and watch the movie on the big screen. Free popcorn. Masks and social distancing required. Info: bbbparkandrec.org. Submissions to Coming Up should be sent to calendar@thenorthernlight.com no later than noon on Monday.
August 19 - 25, 2021 • thenorthernlight.com
The August 3 primary election results are in and are expected to be certified August 17. The two candidates for each position who received the most amount of votes will go on to the November 2 election. The Whatcom County Auditor’s Office shows 54,234 ballots, or 34.2 percent of registered voters, voted in the primary. For the Blaine City Council Ward 2 Position 4 seat, the top two candidates were Rhyan Lopez, with 293 votes, and Colin Hawkins, with 191 votes. Steven Tojek, who had 42 votes, will not advance. For the Blaine City Council Ward 3 Position 6 seat, the top two candidates were Barbara
Sturdivant, with 284 votes, and Eric Davidson, with 251 votes. Jennifer Plombon, who received 217 votes, will not advance. The proposed levy for fire protection district 21, also known as North Whatcom Fire and Rescue, received more votes against the levy at 53.8 percent (4,749), opposed to the 46.2 percent (4,074) of people who voted in favor. The ballot measure will be on the November ballot. For the Whatcom County Council at-large position, Barry Buchanan, with 25,165 votes, and Kamal Bhachu, with 20,205 votes, will advance to the November election. Misty Flowers, with 4,796 votes, and Bobb Burr, with 2,633 votes, will not advance.
Road Rules ...
terpreted the law as always allowing riding two abreast, it’d be the wrong decision from a safety perspective. High speed-limit roads with limited sight distances immediately come to mind. Whether riding alone, single file, or side-by-side, cyclists can (and should) choose a lane position that is as far to the right as is safe. And sometimes that might not be on the far right side of the road.
From page 13
clists want them to pass. And on roads with short windows to pass safely, going around pairs of bikes is quicker for drivers than passing a string of them in single file. There are also situations where riding side-by-side would be the unsafe choice, and even if you in-
Covid-19 ... From page 3
Although Northwest Laboratory is still meeting its result turnaround time of 24-48 hours, Bull said she’s heard anecdotally of Whatcom County pharmacies having three- to six-day delays. People who are experiencing Covid-19 symptoms or have been exposed can call Whatcom County Health Department at 360/778-6075 to be prioritized
for a Covid-19 test. Tests with Testdirectly.com, the scheduling platform used for the Bellingham International Airport location, don’t prioritize Covid-19 appointments by people who have experienced symptoms. Whatcom County’s Covid-19 tracing team is also delayed with contacting people who have been exposed to the virus because of the sudden shift in high cases. To get a Covid-19 test for traveling into Canada, call 360/5436904.
Water Wisely Schedule
Even-Numbered Addresses
YES
NO
Tuesday, Thursday, Saturday
Monday, Wednesday, Friday, Sunday
Now through Sept. 15
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Odd-Numbered Addresses
YES
NO
Wednesday, Friday, Sunday
Monday, Tuesday, Thursday Saturday
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Weekly Water Usage Trend 30 MILLIONS OF GALLONS USED
Finalized primary results
25 20
Historical Avg. 19 million gallons/week
isely w r e t a use w Please
15 10 5 JUNE
JULY
AUGUST
SEPTEMBER
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15
The Northern Light • August 19 - 25, 2021
• Paint & Supplies • Nails, Screws, Bolts • Vents • Electrical • Fittings • Bath Hardware & Repair • Signs & Lettering
Everything you need for CRABBING SEASON! Crab Pots
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