The Northern Light: December 16-22, 2021 by Point Roberts Press

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Community Newspaper of Blaine and Birch Bay

December 16 - 22, 2021

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IN THIS

ISSUE

McKinney leaves school board, page 5

Power outages last up to 26 hours, page 6

School board votes on redistricting map, page 6

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

Gateway 1890 Taphouse celebrates opening NWFR plans future without levy increase By Grace McCarthy

(See NWFR, page 5)

s Gateway 1890 Taphouse & Grill had its grand opening for beer enthusiasts on December 11. The taphouse located at 429 Peace Portal Drive is the brainchild of owner Gary Slavin, who opened The Rustic Fork Eatery across the street in December 2020. The family-friendly taphouse serves everything from a hearty burger to fish and chips to go along with over 20 craft beers on tap and 50 international and U.S. produced brews. See more photos on page 2. Photo by Louise Mugar

Horizon developer in contract to purchase Grandis Pond, affordable housing in the works By Grace McCarthy Grandis Pond, the largest east Blaine housing development that’s been decades in the making, could have a new owner. Harbor Custom Development (HCD) announced on December 3 it signed a $14 million contract to acquire the housing development slated to bring 1,000 lots to east Harvey Road in the next 10-15 years. HCD is the Gig Harbor-based real estate company that purchased the Horizon at Semiahmoo housing development in late June for

$14.3 million. Blossom Management president Ken Hertz purchased Grandis Pond in 2005, a 438-acre property that would significantly expand Whatcom County’s desperately-needed housing inventory. The project has been delayed, among many others in east Blaine, because of the expense to bring utility infrastructure to the area. Hertz said he decided to sell the development to HCD president and CEO Sterling Griffin because of HCD’s ability to build the homes, something Hertz said Blossom

12-year-old arrested after school shooting threat found in Blaine middle school bathroom By Ian Haupt Blaine Police Department (BPD) officers arrested a 12-year-old suspect after graffiti threatening a December 15 school shooting was found in a boys bathroom in Blaine middle school on the morning of December 14. The suspect was arrested without incident and booked into Whatcom County Juvenile Detention Center, according to a BPD statement.

This follows a similar incident where the Blaine school district went into lockout around four hours long December 10 while BPD investigated graffiti found in a girls bathroom on the high school campus. The investigation found no evidence of an active threat, superintendent Christopher Granger said in a message released after the incident. Other school districts in the county have experienced similar threats in recent weeks.

Following the district and BPD investigating and resolving the second threat in a matter of two school days, the agencies asked in a joint December 14 statement for community help in future situations. BPD chief Donnell Tanksley and Granger signed the statement. “In the vast majority of cases, these posts turn out to be non-credible threats where (See School, page 6)

Management didn’t have the capability to do. HCD is involved in the full housing cycle, from land acquisition to sales and management. Grandis Pond would be HCD’s largest project yet, according to a company statement. The company has also developed in Texas, California and Florida. HCD’s interest in east Blaine comes as the company is working with three builders to purchase 71 lots in the first phase of (See Housing, page 10)

INSIDE

North Whatcom Fire and Rescue (NWFR) is planning public outreach following voters rejecting its proposed levy rate increase in the August and November elections, which would have funded critical needs for the growing fire district. The levy lid lift would have increased the current rate of $1.15 per $1,000 of assessed value by 30 cents to $1.45 per $1,000 to replace outdated equipment and increase service to the levels needed in north Whatcom County. But voters rejected the levy by 53.8 percent in the August primary and then with even more opposition in the November general election, by 60.2 percent. “We ran it twice and the citizens have spoken,” NWFR chief Jason Van der Veen said. “It’s back to planning what our future will look like.” Van der Veen said NWFR will eventually bring a levy increase back to the table, but right now, he’s planning public outreach to better understand community needs and wants. With the fire district serving 38,000 people in 156 square miles that stretches north of Bellingham to the U.S./Canada border and runs from Birch Bay to just east of Lynden, those needs vary greatly, he said. “The community groups are so large and encompass different areas with different needs,” he said. “Different geographic spots seem to have different expectations.” NWFR commissioners will decide on the best route for public outreach in early 2022, which could include hiring a professional polling group, creating a citizens advisory board or hosting town halls. In the meantime, Van der Veen said NWFR is figuring out how to maintain its current service levels while the number of calls and complexity of issues the district faces grow. Calls surged more than 72 percent between 2011 and the end of 2021, Van der Veen said. The state’s new police reform law, HB 1310, isn’t helping with the difficulty of

Coming Up . . . . . 14 Classifieds . . . . . 11 Letters . . . . . . . . . 4 Police . . . . . . . . . 14 Sports . . . . . . . . . . 7 Tides . . . . . . . . . . 14

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The Northern Light • December 16 - 22, 2021

New taphouse brings brews to Blaine

s Gateway 1890 Taphouse & Grill owner Gary Slavin opened his taphouse on December 11.

Photos by Grace McCarthy

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December 16 - 22, 2021 • thenorthernlight.com

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The Northern Light • December 16 - 22, 2021

Opinion

The Northern L ght The Northern Light is published weekly by Point Roberts Press Inc. Locally owned and managed, the company also publishes the All Point Bulletin, covering Point Roberts, Mount Baker Experience, covering the Mt. Baker foothills area, Pacific Coast Weddings annual guide, and the summer recreation guide Waterside as well as maps and other publications. Point Roberts Press Inc. is a member of the Washington Newspaper Publishers Association, Chambers of Commerce of Bellingham/ Whatcom County, Birch Bay, Blaine and Point Roberts and the Bellingham/ Whatcom County Convention and Visitors Bureau. The opinions expressed by contributors are their own and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the editors. Letters Policy The Northern Light welcomes letters to the editor. Please include name, address and daytime telephone number for verification. Letters are limited to 350 words and may be edited or rejected for reasons of legality, length and good taste. Thank-you letters are limited to five individuals or groups. Writers should avoid personal invective. Unsigned letters will not be accepted for publication. Requests for withholding names will be considered on an individual basis. Consumer complaints should be submitted directly to the business in question or the local chamber of commerce. Only one letter per month from an individual correspondent will be published. Email letters to letters@thenorthernlight.com. Publisher & Managing Editor Patrick Grubb publisher@pointrobertspress.com Co-publisher & Advertising Director Louise Mugar lmugar@pointrobertspress.com Editor Grace McCarthy grace@pointrobertspress.com Reporter Ian Haupt ian@pointrobertspress.com Creative Services Ruth Lauman, Doug De Visser production@pointrobertspress.com Office Manager Jeanie Luna info@pointrobertspress.com Advertising Sales Molly Ernst, Gary Lee sales@pointrobertspress.com

CAP has successful toy store for families

s The Community Assistance Program (CAP) had another successful Community Toy Store this year. Over 120 families shopped for their children’s Christmas presents at Life Impact Church on December 9-11. The community donated over 1,280 new toys and gift cards that families shopped for at a 75-percent discount. Proceeds will go to The Bridge Community Hope Center’s emergency fund, CAP’s utility bill assistance program and Life Impact Church’s household pantry. Photo by Grace McCarthy

Letters The Editor: In your front-page article, “Cross-border traffic ticks up,” you note that the U.S. border is open to Canadians and that they do not need a Covid-19 test if they remain in the U.S. for under 72 hours. This is good news for the local economy. I also noticed that prior to the Canadian government waiving the Covid-19 test requirement to return, all of our local, state and federal politicians were encouraging Canada to reconsider the requirement. This political pressure worked. Where are these same politicians ask-

ing Canada to waive the Covid-19 test for Americans wanting to cross the border for a short visit? For fully vaccinated Americans, I see no critical concern for Canada for short-term U.S. citizen border crossings. Political pressure works. Doug Tomaso Blaine Please send letters to letters@thenorthernlight.com no later than noon on Monday.

Corrections In an article in the December 9 issue of The Northern Light titled “Timmons runs for state representative,” a word was omitted from Timmons’ quote. He loves the state government. In an article in the December 9 issue of The Northern Light titled “Scientists see positive results from European green crab trapping in Drayton Harbor,” Emily Grason was misquoted on the crab removal efforts in the Lummi sea pond. The over 70,000 crabs found in the sea pond is likely attributed to the pond’s unique habitat that is favorable for the crabs. We regret the errors.

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

Merry Christmas & Happy Holidays FROM ALL OF US AT

Vol XXVII, No 27 Circulation: 10,500 copies

Circulation Independently verified by:

Community Newspaper of Blaine & Birch Bay

We wish each of you a healthy 2022. Thank you to our readers and advertisers for your support.

Next issue: Dec. 30 Ads due: Dec. 27

In celebration of the holiday season, our office will be closed from December 20 through December 24. Our office will re-open on Monday, December 27. Our next issue will come out December 30.

Photo: Louise Mugar

December 16 - 22, 2021 • thenorthernlight.com

McKinney resigns from school NWFR ... From page 1 board, plans to move out of state By Ian Haupt Blaine school board vice president Laura McKinney sent in her letter of resignation November 29, which was accepted by the board during its December 14 meeting, as she and her family are moving back to South Carolina. McKinney was recently reelected to another term as district 5 representative. The board will need to appoint a representative for the district, which with the board’s redistricting includes Semiahmoo, areas south of Blaine and north Birch Bay, by March 4, 2022. The appointed representative will serve a two-year term until the next general election. “It is with a heavy heart that I submit my resignation from the board effective immediately,” McKinney wrote in her resignation letter. “I am grateful for the support of the electorate in the last election, but my family and I have decided to leave the state of Washington and return to South Carolina. I wish the students the greatest success in life, and I hope that they will continue to

s Laura McKinney.

File photo

find motivation and inspiration to reach their potential.” McKinney moved to Blaine in 2001 from South Carolina. She lived here for a year and a half and then returned in 2014. She has served as a board member since 2017. “I appreciate the time and service she’s given to the school district, staff and students,” superintendent Christopher Granger said during the meeting. “She was a very good board member and allowed for very healthy discussions at the board level.”

calls; the fire chief estimates call volume has grown 20 percent since the new law went into effect this summer. HB 1310 limits law enforcement responsibilities, requiring fire departments to take over things like behavioral health and welfare check calls they’re not equipped or trained to do, Van der Veen said. “The firefighters are really being asked to be social workers and mental health counselors,” he said, adding he hasn’t seen the fire service change as drastically in his 26-year career as it has during Covid-19 and HB 1310. This is in addition to fire services responding to more primary care, neighborhood disputes and code-enforcement calls to which other agencies would typically respond. “The fire department has become the bottom of the overall community safety net and we’re not fully sure how to deal with all of these issues,” Van der Veen said. Inflation and supply chain issues in the past year have also made supplies more expensive and caused delays in replacing

equipment. NWFR budgeted $20,000 for EMS operational supplies in 2021, but ended up spending almost $34,000, which required the district to cut training money so it wouldn’t go over budget, Van der Veen said. Without the voter-approved levy increase, NWFR will hold off replacing vehicles that are past scheduled replacement dates and defer needed building maintenance and minor equipment upgrades. NWFR would have also added personnel to shorten response times. NWFR’s tax revenue in 2022 was $6.5 million; NWFR commissioners voted during the November budget hearing to add the 1 percent revenue increase. This will only bring an additional $65,000 in 2022, Van der Veen said, which is far less than the

Take And Heat Meals Please order early, limited availability. Due to COVID-19 and the Governor’s Proclamation, meetings are now only open to the public telephonically. Information on how to listen to the meeting live will be on the City Council agenda which is located on the City’s website homepage under Your Government, City Council, City Council Agenda. Please check the agenda prior to each meeting as the call-in number or location may change.

Thursday, December 23 6:00pm – Planning Commission Meeting

Dec. 16 • 7 pm • Holiday Movie Trivia & Ugly Sweater Contest

Lasagna, Salad, Roasted Vegetables, Anna’s Bread in Blaine Focaccia, Panna Cotta.

Dec. 17 • 7pm • Live Music by The D’vas and Alan

Week of 12/29 Beef Stroganoff, Butter Noodles, Roasted Vegetables, Salad & Dessert

Dec. 29 • 6:30 pm • Sip & Paint $75 per person includes $30 food/beverage credit, paint supplies, instruction, tax and gratuity. Pre registration required

Monday, December 27 9:00am – City Council Meeting

Dec. 23 • Take & Heat Meal and Wine pick up

Northwest Fusion Cuisine Right Here in Blaine! $14 per meal

Dec. 30 • 7 pm • Pop Culture Trivia

Christmas Eve Dinner

NEW YEAR’S EVE Friday, December 31 • 9 pm-12:30 am Live Music with JP Falcon Grady & Friends, Sparkling Wine and Cocktail specials. Reservations suggested. Walk ins welcome.

Braised Short Ribs, Potato Gratin, Creamed Spinach, House Salad with Beets, Pomegranate, Candied Nuts, Blue Cheese Balsamic Vinaigrette, Eggnog Bread Pudding (made with Anna’s Bread in Blaine Sourdough) with Bourbon Creme Anglaise

Friday, December 24 City Offices Closed – Christmas Day Observed

$650,000 needed for a new engine or $250,000 for a new aide car for Blaine and Birch Bay. Van der Veen said he also worries the district’s insurance rating could drop when it’s reevaluated this summer because of aging equipment, which could lead to increased insurance rates for homeowners. The old equipment isn’t necessarily unsafe, he said, but requires a more careful eye by mechanics. “I was disappointed. It’s hard not to take something like that personally,” he said of the rejected levy increase. “It’s hard being on the inside because you know why the levy increase needs to pass. You second guess your communication with the public, but when it comes down to it, maybe I’m the one who needs to understand.”

December Fun at The Vault

Week of 12/15:

CITY OF BLAINE

NEW YEAR’S DAY BRUNCH Saturday, January 1 • 11am - 2 pm Cocktails & Brunch Faire. Reservations highly recommended

Pick up December 23 from 2-8 pm. $25 per meal Pair a bottle of wine to take from our extensive list! All wines are 10% off to-go and 15% off for wine club members!

Tuesday, December 28 3:00pm – Civil Service Commission Meeting *CANCELLED*

Friday, December 31 City Offices Closed – New Year’s Day Observed All City offices are currently closed to the public. 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

Closed December 22-25. Curbside pick up for Take and Heat Meals and Wine Bottle purchases available December 23 from 2-8 pm.

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Reservations Recommended • Walk-ins Welcome

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The Northern Light • December 16 - 22, 2021

Blaine power outage lasts up to 26 hours for some

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By Ian Haupt Some Blaine residents experienced a nearly 26-hour power outage December 12 after a switch at the substation failed. Public works director Bernie Ziemianek said a feeder in one of the city’s primary conductors came loose early in the morning of December 12, shortly after midnight, and some residents didn’t get power until 2 a.m. December 13. Public works crews found a pole line malfunction near Mitch-

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20 hours after the initial outage. In this time, crews restored power to some customers, the last of whom were restored around 2 a.m. December 13. On December 12, city administration were brought in to answer calls around 2 a.m. and calls went out to those affected around 3 a.m., Ziemianek said. At 4:30 p.m., a city announcement said crews had located the problem and were working with PSE to install a new switch at the substation. It said time of restoration was still unknown

and that the outage could extend into the late evening or early morning. The power outage was long enough that the Blaine school district canceled school December 13 because the outage affected multiple locations on the district’s campus. “At this point in time I think we’re all buttoned-up,” Ziemianek said in a December 13 phone interview. “I haven’t had a chance to talk to staff yet since they are just getting in now after working 24 hours straight.”

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ell Avenue after heavy winds and rain, which Ziemianek said. This did some damage to the electrical facilities, he said. Puget Sound Energy (PSE) came out to fix the switch at the substation at Hughes and Yew avenues, while public works crews worked to bring customers back onto the system, Ziemianek said. The majority of city customers’ power was out for about 15 hours, Ziemianek said. The outage did not impact Semiahmoo. PSE restored the breaker

By Ian Haupt During its December 14 meeting, the Blaine school board voted 4-0 to adopt a revised redistricting plan, which Birch Bay community members pushed for in order to have more representation on the board. The plan gives Birch Bay two of its own districts, Blaine two of its own and one split amongst them. It also leaves current district 4 board member Charles Gibson without a district. The revised plan was drafted after superintendent Christopher Granger worked with Birch Bay community members to address their concerns in the redistricting process. The first proposed plan kept all board members in their respective districts but also stretched the district boundaries long and thin across the school district, which Birch Bay Chamber of Commerce secretary Doralee Booth said did not give the Birch Bay community “a

School ... From page 1

students did not intend harm or do not have access to weapons that could cause harm to a school,” the statement read. “Students will often say the online post or threat was a joke. We want to emphasize to you that the safety of our children is not a joke.” The statement goes on to say both agencies will take every threat seriously and investigate it thoroughly, and there are consequences for those guilty of threatening schools, students and staff. In order to prevent such incidents, the statement asks parents to talk to their children about consequences of sharing threats of violence and monitor children’s online activity. It also asks parents to remind their children that if they see something, they should say something to school administration, use the school’s anonymous online tool, “Report It!” or text a tip to 844/201-8732. The statement closes saying, “Our intent in sending this letter is not to cause worry or angst. It is to share what really happens when students make these choices, and to inform on the significant impacts it causes for them,

sense of place.” Granger said Booth and other Birch Bay community members wanted Birch Bay to have its own districts separate from Blaine. This way they would have representation on the board. “The feedback we got from the [Birch Bay] community is that they will work really hard to make sure there’s people to run,” he said. District boundaries must be reviewed every 10 years following the release of the U.S. Census to ensure equal representation on the board. Boundaries in the first proposed plan were drawn so as to include all board members in their respective districts. Washington state law does not say district boundaries have to be drawn to include the current board member, but board members also cannot be removed from office by redistricting. Because the adopted plan draws Gibson outside of his district, he will finish out his term on the

board, acting as the district 4 director, then someone from within the new district 4 boundaries will take his seat in the next election. “It feels like it’s a good map that will get us through the next 10 years,” Granger said. “And we’ll see what happens with upper H Street development, what happens in Birch Bay development, this could look different 10 years from now.” Granger said the plan is a good representation of the district community as a whole, not enrollment numbers. The redistricting process is based off census data, which looks at population. According to 2020 census data, 58 percent of children – persons under 18 years of age – in the school district reside in Birch Bay, and 80 percent of children under 5 years of age reside in Birch Bay. Through 2021 tax contributions, Birch Bay residents also contribute 36 percent of the school district’s funding, while Blaine contributes about 24 percent.

their family and our entire community.” To view the statement in its entirety, go to bit.ly/3dVpGdA. Communication During the first incident investigation last Friday, many parents expressed their frustration that they found out about the lockout through social media rather than the district directly. An automated call to parents announced the lockout was being lifted because it was near the end of the school day and needed for student release. Some wished they had received a call earlier regarding the lockout. In the December 12 follow-up message to parents, Granger apologized for the lack of communication during the event. “We sincerely regret the communication failures that occurred Friday and offer our apologies,” he wrote. “I’d also like to thank all of you who have provided us feedback and the opportunity to improve.” Granger said previously automated calls have been used only when action is required of a parent or guardian. But following the incident, he said the district will now add an automated call to its initial notification process. After the investigation was completed, the district lifted the lock-

out; pick up and student release occurred as usual at 2:50 p.m. According to a district notice sent out during lockout, there was no verified threat on any of the district’s campuses, but no one was permitted to enter or exit any of the campuses from about 11 a.m. to 2:50 p.m. while classes continued as usual. With threats in multiple Whatcom County schools in the past few weeks, BPD investigated the situation and provided an increased presence on the district’s campus. A lockout is called when there is a threat or hazard outside of the school building. In his message, Granger said BPD would continue to have an increased presence on and around school campuses during the week as a safety precaution. BPD reminded parents of the classroom response protocols in an announcement. “Entering a school during a lockout or lockdown is very dangerous and irresponsible,” a BPD spokesperson wrote. “Anyone who does so puts themselves, the children, staff, and law enforcement at risk of severe injury. School staff will be taking attendance during and after an incident to make sure every child is accounted for and safe.”

• Automotive • Housewares • Fish & Wildlife Licenses • Computer Paint Matching

December 16 - 22, 2021 • thenorthernlight.com

Sports roundup: Blaine takes fifth at Battle of the Border last weekend

s Jackson Veals takes on an opponent on day two of the Battle of the Border. Blaine High School hosted a two-day, 15-school invitational wrestling tournament last weekend where the Borderites took fifth. Photo by Rieko Pomeroy

By Ian Haupt

Based on manufacturer’s data available at time of publication for Model Year 2021 vehicles

s Hunter Berg competes at the Battle of the Border. Photo by Rieko Pomeroy

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Blaine hosted a two-day, 15-school Battle of the Border wrestling tournament this past weekend where the Borderites took fifth against some tough competition. Borderites boys wrestling coach Tom Hinz said the boys wrestled pretty good compared to other 1A schools. “I thought it was a really tough tournament and the boys wrestled really well,” Hinz said. Some standout performances for the Borderites came from Alex Welch, Timothy Pomeroy and Cael Button, who took second, third and third in their weight classes, respectively. The boys will have their senior night Thursday, December 16, hosting Ferndale. They travel to Cashmere for a multi-school invitation Saturday, December 18. Boys basketball The Borderites lost their opening home game last Thursday against Burlington-Edison by only two points, 61-59. The boys then hosted Lake Stevens on Saturday and lost 58-46. Blaine was scheduled to play Bellingham at home Wednesday and will travel to Mount Vernon Thursday, December 16, to face the Bulldogs. On Monday, December 20, they will host Lynden. All games are at 7:15 p.m. The boys are 1-2 this season. Girls basketball The Lady Borderites had a rough start to their delayed season due to a positive Covid-19 case. They opened their season last Friday at Burlington-Edison where they lost 60-28. The girls traveled to Lummi Nation the next day, winning 64-36, and then to Bellingham Tuesday, where they lost narrowly 41-37. Blaine will host Mount Vernon Friday, December 17, for their first home game of the season. They will then go to Lynden Monday, December 20. Both games are at 7:15 p.m. The girls are 1-2 this season.

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C hristmas

The Northern Light • December 16 - 22, 2021

WORSHIP THIS

Season!

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902 Adelia Street, Blaine, WA 98230 360-332-8918 office@bcfcommunity.com www.bcfcommunity.com www.facebook.com/blainechristianfellowship

Christmas Sunday Worship

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December 19 • 10 a.m.

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Pastor Bing C. Canlas

360-366-5181

7 pm In-person or on Zoom. Carols and Communion. Zoom info: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/87471530698? pwd=OU5xaWQxVWtsOWo5SzZHdEdZQ2lvUT09 Meeting ID: 874 7153 0698 Passcode: 134347 Dial by your location +1 253 215 8782 US (Tacoma)

11:45 pm In-person. Meditation. Blaine United Church of Christ • Pastor Sandy Wisecarver 885 4th St. • Blaine, WA 98230 • (360) 332-6906

Celebrate Christmas Christmas Eve 8 pm in-person

with Josiah Aho

Friday, December 24 7 p.m.

Custer United Methodist Church 2996 Main Street • Custer

Christmas Eve Services • Friday, December 24

and he might sing it! Presented by www.endtimemessagetabernacle.com Service Times: Sunday 10:30AM & 5PM, Wednesday 7:30PM at 2007 Cherry St. Ferndale • 360-815-5025

Grace Lutheran Church 702 G St.

blainegracelutheran.com

Catholic Mass Schedule for Christmas 2021 Christmas Eve

Friday, December 24, 4 p.m. - St. Anne, Blaine Friday, December 24, 6 p.m. - St. Joachim, Lummi Friday, December 24, 8 p.m. - St. Joseph, Ferndale

Christmas Day

Saturday, December 25, 10:30 a.m. - St. Joseph, Ferndale

St. Joseph Church, 5781 Hendrickson Ave., Ferndale St. Anne Church, H & 6th Streets, Blaine St. Joachim Church, Kwina & Lummi Shore Rd., Lummi www.stjosephferndale.org • administration@stjosephferndale.org

Join us this

Christmas Eve at CTK North Bay

Don’t miss CTK’s All-Network Online

Christmas Special

Come make yourself at home for an hour of Christmas music, a message of hope, and a special candlelit rendition of “Silent Night”.

Join us for a 30-minute online special with music and a creative telling of the Christmas story.

Choose between two service times: Childcare available for children under 5

Airs during all Bellingham service times on December 25 & 26* and on demand starting at 12:01 AM on Christmas Day.

4895 Birch Bay Lynden Rd, Blaine, WA 98230

Choose your favorite streaming platform at live.ctk.church

Friday, December 24 at 4:00 & 5:30 pm

(360) 332-1951 • Find details at ctk.church/christmas

*No in-person services on Dec. 25 & 26

Christ Episcopal Church Christmas EvE sErviCE

Friday, December 24 • 5 pm Masks, social distancing and proof of vaccination required Also on Facebook Live www.facebook.com/christchurchblaine

382 Boblett, Blaine christchurchblaine.org The Rev. Susan Mills

December 16 - 22, 2021 • thenorthernlight.com

ADVICE FROM THE PROS

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

Q: Is now a good time to refinance?

Q: I am over age 72, do I need to take a Required Minimum Distribution (RMD) in 2021?

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.

A: Yes, you do need to take a required minimum

Deka Wiebusch CFP® AIF® CRPC®

FINANCIAL ADVISOR

distribution this year. The CARES Act in 2020 waived the requirement to take a distribution from your IRA if you were 72 years old or older. However, the Consolidated Appropriations Act makes no mention of waiving required minimum distributions for 2021. There are only a few more weeks left in 2021, so don’t forget to remove all required minimum distributions out of retirement accounts before December 31, 2021. Contact a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ if you are unsure about your IRA requirements. Skyline Advisors, Inc. 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, Inc. unless a client service agreement is in place.

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

Q: I see that M.D. Spa & Wellness is a Medical Aesthetics Clinic. I am unsure what the difference is between a spa, esthetics & aesthetics?

Q: Should I sign up for an IRS online tax account? A: Taxpayers can now sign up for an IRS online tax account to access their personal tax

information. Having an account can be very useful for preparing the 2021 tax return. The IRS is still backlogged after the COVID-19 closures and calling the IRS can come with long wait times. Having an individual online account will allow you to get your own account information immediately without having to call the IRS. Here are some of the advantages to having an individual online account: • You can view your balance • You can view or create payment plans • You can make and view payments • You can manage your communication preferences • You can access your tax records • You can view Tax Pro Authorizations • You can check the status of your refund • You can view the amount of your EIP #3 – The amount received for the 2021 stimulus payment is needed to reconcile the amount on the 2021 tax return. Addand Suite 301 tointo the FairhavYou can setup an account by going to the IRS website at www.irs.gov click on “Sign Your Account”. en address

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A: It is somewhat confusing so let’s define the differences. Spa/Salon: Typically refers to a location that offers massages, manicures and pedicures, nails and hair. Dr. Ken Stiver MD Esthetics: Facials, dermabrasions, microneedling and non Medical Director medical treatments. Medical supervision not required. MEDICAL TEAM: Nurse Practitioner, Physician Assistant, Aesthetic Treatments: Often thought of as non surgical anti aging procedures. All of these treatments require medical Nurses & Master Estheticians & Licensed Massage Therapists. management - A medical director, nurse practitioner, physician 7854 Birch Bay Dr. • Birch Bay assistant, or registered nurse. Products require prescriptions. Botox & Jeuveau, Dermal Filler Such As Juvederm, In the beautiful Sand Castle Resort Medical Chemical Peels, Laser Hair Removal, Bioidentical Hormone Replacement, Medical Weight Loss Management 907 Harris Ave, Suite 301 • Fairhaven

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Q: Is water pipe damage covered by insurance? A: Your homeowners or business owners insurance policy should cover any sudden and unexpected water damage resulting from a plumbing malfunction or broken pipe. It is important to note that most insurance policies exclude damage to your structure that occurred gradually, such as a slow, constant leak, as well as damage due a fire sprinkler system or regional flooding. Refer to your policy or contact your agent to determine your coverage limits.

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Q: Should I use heat or ice for my pain? A: This depends on length of injury. Ice is usually used for

Jordan Crim, DPT Physical Therapist

Capstone Physical Therapy

Christine Roubidoux Personal Lines Manager

1733 H Street, Suite 400 Blaine, WA 98230 360-332-5111

Christine.Roubidoux@fortiphi.com

www.capstonept.com

288 Martin St. Downtown Blaine (360) 332-7300 (604) 256-1384

recent onset of an injury in attempts to control inflammation. More chronic, longstanding, pain usually responds better to heat to decrease tightness of the muscles and tissue around the injury. If you are using ice or heat, it’s usually a good idea to not surpass 30 minutes duration and to take at least an hour off in between sessions to protect from skin damage. For further advice on how to manage your symptoms and get you back to pain free daily and recreational activities, visit Capstone Physical Therapy. Capstone is conveniently located in seven locations throughout Whatcom County and is accepting new patients at our Birch Bay Square location and our Blaine clinic on H Street. Visit www.capstonept.com for more information. www.capstonept.com 825 Birch Bay Square Street, Suite 248 Blaine, WA 98230

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Blaine

Cordata

Lynden

Ferndale

Barkley

The Northern Light • December 16 - 22, 2021

Housing ... From page 1

the Horizon subdivision. Griffin said they expect to break ground near the beginning of 2022. “We started a footprint in Whatcom County and Blaine with Horizon and after that, started looking for other opportunities. Grandis Pond is a gorgeous property and provides possibility for development,” Griffin said. “It seemed like the type of proj-

ect we wanted to be involved in to create housing in an area that had massive housing shortages.” Stacie Pratschner, city of Blaine community development director, previously told The Northern Light that east Blaine housing is expected to supply nearly 40 percent of the city’s housing for the next 20 years. Griffin said the project will remain largely as Hertz envisioned. As it’s planned now, Grandis Pond would have 387 single-family lots in its first phase that will

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average 6,000 square feet per lot. About 40 percent of the total project’s land will be open space and parks. The next steps are to complete the civil engineering for the project’s first phase, which Griffin expects to take most of 2022. “We’re very excited to take this project forward and help Ken Hertz realize his dream,” Griffin said. “We feel fortunate to be the ones to step into his shoes and finish the project.” The sale of Grandis Pond is expected to close between July and September of 2022 but could occur sooner, Griffin said. Until then, Hertz said he will remain fully involved in the project. Hertz is expected to still have some hand in east Blaine housing development. Although he’s in contract to sell the majority of the Grandis Pond project, he held onto 80 single-family affordable housing units that will eventually be transferred to nonprofit housing providers. Skip Jansen of JIJ Corporation, the developer of The Ridge at Harbor Hills, formerly known as East Maple Ridge, said he is also planning on developing as many as 100-200 affordable housing units adjacent to Grandis Pond. The affordable housing would be developed in Harbor Hills, a 144acre property east of Harvey Road that JIJ Corporation purchased in

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mid-November. Although it’s still in the preliminary stages, Jansen said the affordable housing neighborhood would be mostly four-plexes and possibly include condos or apartments surrounded by lots of open space, wildlife and parks. “We need more entry-level housing for workers because Blaine is trying to attract more business, which means more workers,” Jansen said. To defray costs of affordable housing development, Jansen and Hertz are working with the city of Blaine and Whatcom County to potentially apply for a new affordable housing program that the county is in the process of starting. The affordable workforce housing program is an extension of Whatcom County’s Economic Development Program (EDI), which the county has in place to administer grants and low-interest loans for construction of public infrastructure. The state legislature authorized the program in 1997 to allow rural counties to use sales tax to pay for the infrastructure with the goal of creating economic development opportunities, according to the county’s website. Only public entities may apply, such as the city of Blaine, but the private sector can use the EDI funds to spur economic develop-

ment and employment opportunities, according to the county. Hertz said he would like the city to apply for a grant and loan combination to pay for water and sewer infrastructure as well as Harbor Hills Parkway, formerly known as Mott’s Hill Parkway, and would serve as the main entrance for both affordable housing neighborhoods. City manager Michael Jones said there will likely be a decision by the end of January on whether or not the city would decide to submit an EDI application. The city has used EDI funds in the past to pay for the construction of the downtown boardwalk plazas as well as the Gateway regional stormwater pond, he said. If the city decides before the sale of Grandis Pond is finalized that they don’t want to apply for the EDI funds, the affordable housing property would be returned to HCD, Hertz said. Jansen said he’s seeing good cooperation between the county and city to promote affordable housing in east Blaine and applauded Jones for taking the helm on the issue. “To attract new businesses, you need housing that people can afford,” he said. “I think everyone’s on the right page and heading in the right direction. We just need to keep the momentum going and work together.”

The Grinch pays a visit to downtown Blaine

Contact: colleen@wholepilates.com

I got

VACCINATED After so long in quarantine life, I felt like I was missing out on so many things. Getting the vaccine felt like life could go back to normal, and who wouldn’t want that? - Gunnar Lund, 15

this is

our shot

WHATCOM

VaccinateWhatcom.org

s The Grinch, aka Greg Nuzum, was spotted at the Starbucks on Peace Portal Drive this week, right in time for the holidays. Photos courtesy Konni Nuzum

December 16 - 22, 2021 • thenorthernlight.com

NEXT ISSUE: Dec. 30

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MAINTENANCE WORKER–UTILITIES: TWO OPEN POSITIONS Salary Range: $4,316 to $5,229 per month plus benefits (2021 wages; 2022 wages will be determined by new CBA). Interested persons should complete the online application on the City’s website, https://www.ci.blaine.wa.us/827/Maintenance-Worker-Utilities First review deadline: December 17, 2021, at 4:30pm; Open Until Filled. The City of Blaine is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

CITY OF BLAINE

ENGINEERING TECHNICIAN III Salary Range: $5,243 - $6,119 per month plus benefits. (2021 wages; 2022 wages will be determined by new CBA) Interested persons should complete the online application on the City’s website, https://www.ci.blaine.wa.us/857/Engineering-Technician-III First review deadline: December 31, 2021, at 4:30pm; Open Until Filled. The City of Blaine is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

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IN THE SUPERIOR COURT OF THE STATE OF WASHINGTON IN AND FOR WHATCOM COUNTY In re the Estate of: FRANK MELVIN EICHER, Deceased. No. 21-4-00994-37. NOTICE TO CREDITORS. Judge Lee P. Grochmal The Personal Representative named below has been appointed and has qualified as Personal Representative of this estate. Any person having a claim against the decedent must, before the time the claim would be barred by any otherwise applicable statute of limitations, present the claim in the manner as provided in RCW 11.40.070 by serving on or mailing to the Personal Representative or the Personal Representative’s attorney at the address stated below a copy of the claim and filing the original of the claim with the court in which the probated proceedings were commenced. The claim must be presented within the later of: (1) thirty days after the Personal Representative served or mailed the notice to the creditor as provided under RCW 11.40.020(1)(c); or (2) four months after the date of first publication of the notice. If the claim is not presented within this time frame, the claim is forever barred, except as otherwise provided in RCW 11.40.051 and 11.40.060. This bar is effective as to claims against both the decedent’s probate and nonprobate assets. Date of Filing of Notice to Creditors: December 1, 2021 with Clerk of Court: Date of First Publication: December 9, 2021 Name of Personal Representative: CINDY MAXWELL Attorney for Personal Representatives: Steven D. Avery, WSBA #35262 Address for Mailing or Service: Avery Elder Law, P.S. 801 Samish Way, Ste. 202 Bellingham WA 98229 Telephone: (360) 325-2550 Email: steve@averyelderlaw.com DATED: December 1, 2021. AVERY ELDER LAW, P.S. Attorney for Personal Representative: CINDY MAXWELL www.averyelderlaw.com

SUPERIOR COURT OF THE STATE OF WASHINGTON KING COUNTY In re the Estate of: Daniel Louis Warner and Jane Eileen Warner, Deceased. NO. 21-4-08078-6 SEA. PROBATE NOTICE TO CREDITORS RCW 11.40.030 The Administrator named below has been appointed as Administrator of this estate. Any person having a claim against the decedents 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 probate 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 decedents’ probate and nonprobate assets. Date of First Publication: December 9, 2021 Administrator: Mary Alice Kipp Benson Attorney for the Administrator: Nicholas Pleasants Address for Mailing or Service: 2300 130th Ave NE Ste A-101, Bellevue, WA 98005 Court of probate proceedings and cause number: King County Superior Court Case No. 21-4-08078-6 SEA

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IN THE SUPERIOR COURT OF THE STATE OF WASHINGTON IN AND FOR WHATCOM COUNTY In re the Estate of: VALERIE HARDING, Deceased. No. 21-4-00971-37. NOTICE TO CREDITORS Judge Lee Grochmal 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: November 29, 2021 with Clerk of Court: Date of First Publication: December 2, 2021 Name of Administrator: CINDY MAXWELL Attorney for Administrators: Steven D. Avery, WSBA #35262 Address for Mailing or Service: Avery Elder Law, P.S. 801 Samish Way, Ste. 202 Bellingham WA 98229 Telephone: (360) 325-2550 Email: steve@averyelderlaw.com DATED: November 29, 2021 AVERY ELDER LAW, P.S. STEVEN D. AVERY, WSBA #35262 Attorney for Administrator CINDY MAXWELL www.averyelderlaw.com

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IN THE SUPERIOR COURT OF THE STATE OF WASHINGTON IN AND FOR WHATCOM COUNTY In re the Estate of: MARJAN GERDINA EICHER, Deceased. No. 21-4-00990-37. NOTICE TO CREDITORS. Judge Robert E. Olson The Personal Representative named below has been appointed and has qualified as Personal Representative of this estate. Any person having a claim against the decedent must, before the time the claim would be barred by any otherwise applicable statute of limitations, present the claim in the manner as provided in RCW 11.40.070 by serving on or mailing to the Personal Representative or the Personal Representative’s attorney at the address stated below a copy of the claim and filing the original of the claim with the court in which the probated proceedings were commenced. The claim must be presented within the later of: (1) thirty days after the Personal Representative served or mailed the notice to the creditor as provided under RCW 11.40.020(1)(c); or (2) four months after the date of first publication of the notice. If the claim is not presented within this time frame, the claim is forever barred, except as otherwise provided in RCW 11.40.051 and 11.40.060. This bar is effective as to claims against both the decedent’s probate and nonprobate assets. Date of Filing of Notice to Creditors: December 1, 2021 with Clerk of Court: Date of First Publication: December 9, 2021 Name of Personal Representative: CINDY MAXWELL Attorney for Personal Representatives: Steven D. Avery, WSBA #35262 Address for Mailing or Service: Avery Elder Law, P.S. 801 Samish Way, Ste. 202 Bellingham WA 98229 Telephone: (360) 325-2550 Email: steve@averyelderlaw.com DATED: December 1, 2021. AVERY ELDER LAW, P.S. Attorney for Personal Representative CINDY MAXWELL www.averyelderlaw.com

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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.

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The Northern Light • December 16 - 22, 2021

Real Estate

! G N DI

G! N I D

PEN

40’ Semiahmoo Marina Boat Slip Slip C-23 $59,000

8655 Valley View Rd.

3BR, 2-full -BA, Ductless heat pump. LR opens to large kitchen & eating area w/ new cabinets & floors. Home offers lots of nice upgrades! $400,000

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

Rentals - Rooms FURNISHED ROOMS in historic home, incl. amenities, NS, pet friendly starts at $600/mo. + deposit, references required. 360-332-3449. All real estate/rentals advertising in this newspaper is subject to the Federal Fair Housing Act of 1968 as amended, which makes it illegal to advertise any preference, limitation or discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, handicap, familial status or national origin, or an intention to make any such preference, limitation or discrimination. This newspaper will not knowingly accept any advertisement for real estate which is in violation of the law. Our readers are hereby informed that all dwellings advertised in this newspaper are available on an equal opportunity basis. To complain of discrimination, call HUD toll-free at 1-800-877-0246.

Call Lisa for a

0 Koehn Rd., Blaine • $1,495,000 MLS # 1597410 • Vacant Land • 16.85 Acres

456 feet +/- of Waterfront property on 16.85 acres, with either

estate or subdivide opportunities. Can be expanded buy adding parcel # 3951111614530000, 13.38 acres. Potential for up to six home sites with the addition of this parcel. Combined parcel available with combined listing #1589151 with over 30 acres +/- and over 814 feet +/- of waterfront footage. Water available through Birch Bay Water. Be the benificiary of terrific sun exposure, & an incredibly private & quiet location.

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5488 Puffin Place, Blaine • $300,000 MLS # 1698438 • Vacant Land • 0.55 Acres Home site #20. Over 1/2 acre 23958 sq. ft. Water and Mountain view

home site in Drayton Hillside on Puffin Place a gated community. Bring your plans and ambition and enjoy this most peaceful setting, and all the amenities the Semiahmoo community has to offer. Marina, Golf and Country Club, Heath Club, Spa, 200 room Inn at Semiahmoo, restaurants, tennis, pools, pickle ball and so much more.

CALL ME...

Lisa Sprague Owner/Agent

Location, Location!

360.815.6638

briansouthwick@gmail.com

360-961-0838

see more pictures at www.briansouthwick.com

Rentals - Commercial

NELSON BUILDING 925 Ludwick Ave., Blaine

Newly Available!

LEASE SPACES FOR:

380 s.f.

2nd floor office space in The Northern Light Cannery-style building on Blaine Harbor. Views of marina.

Warehousing-Distribution Manufacturing or Retail Vehicle Storage Yards Near Truck Route & Shopping Mall

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Email or Call Don Nelson For Availability & Rates

Call: 360-305-0286

For leasing info, contact Pat Grubb at 360/332-1777 or email pgrubb@mac.com

Email nelsbldg@msn.com

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NOTICE TO CREDITORS In the Superior Court of the State of Washington, In and for the County of Whatcom, In re the Estate of Jelle “Jim” Zylstra. Probate No. 21-401003-37. Judge: Evan Jones. The Personal Representative named below has been appointed as personal representative of this estate. Any person having a claim against the decedent must, before the time the claim would be barred by any otherwise applicable statute of limitations, present the claim in the manner as provided in RCW 11.40.070 by serving on or mailing to the personal representative or the personal representative’s attorney at the address stated below a copy of the claim and filing the original of the claim with the Clerk of this Court. The claim must be presented within the later of: (1) Thirty days after the personal representative served or mailed the notice to the creditor as provided under RCW 11.40.020(1)(c); or (2) four months after the date of first publication of the notice (twenty-four (24) months if notice is not published). If the claim is not presented within this time frame, the claim is forever barred, except as otherwise provided in RCW 11.40.051 and 11.40.060. This bar is effective as to claims against both the decedent’s probate and nonprobate assets. Date of first publication: 12/9/21. Personal Representative: Kenneth Zylstra. Attorney for the Estate: Keith Bode, WSBA #7791 314 5th Street, P.O. Box 688, Lynden, WA 98264-0688, Tel. (360) 354-5021

IN THE SUPERIOR COURT OF THE STATE OF WASHINGTON IN AND FOR THE COUNTY OF WHATCOM In the matter of the Estate of JOHN PETER BLAIR, Deceased. No. 21-4-00751-37 PROBATE NOTICE TO CREDITORS (RCW 11.40.030) The Personal Representative named below has been appointed as Personal Representative of the above estate. Any person having a claim against the deceased JOHN PETER BLAIR must, before the time the claim would be barred by any otherwise applicable statute of limitations, present the claim in the manner provided by RCW 11.40.070 by serving on or mailing to the Personal Representative or the Personal Representative’s Attorney at the address stated below, a copy of the claim, and filing the original of the claim with the Court in which the probated proceedings have commenced. The claim must be presented within the later of: (1) thirty days after the Personal Representative 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 this notice. If the claim is not presented within this time frame, the claim will be forever barred except as otherwise provided in RCW 11.40.051 or 11.40.060. This bar is effective as to claims against both the probate and nonprobate assets of the Decedent. DATE OF FILING NOTICE TO CREDITORS WITH THE CLERK OF THE COURT: November 22, 2021 DATE OF FIRST PUBLICATION: December 2, 2021 PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE: MICHAEL PHILLIP MAYNARD ATTORNEY FOR PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE: Mark W. Stowe, WSBA #16655 ADDRESS FOR MAILING OR SERVICE: Mark W. Stowe, Attorney Stowe Law PLLC 276 Boundary Bay Rd, P.O. Box 129, Point Roberts, WA 98281 Phone: (360) 945-0337 Email: stowelawpllc@outlook.com DATED this 22th day of November 2021. STOWE LAW PLLC: Mark W. Stowe, WSBA# 16655, Attorney for Personal Representative

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December 16 - 22, 2021 • thenorthernlight.com

Road Rules: Advice for pedestrians, cyclists when sharing bike lanes By Doug Dahl Question: I live in an area where bike lanes are present on both sides of the road, but there are no sidewalks. I was taught to always walk against car traffic. That also means walking against bike traffic. If I see a bike coming, I edge to my left to allow them to pass me on the right. I have had some experiences with bike riders not yielding any space, or worse, forcing me into the street. I have also seen a lot of walkers walking with traffic. What are the rules with regard to pedestrians and bicyclists using bike lanes in areas where there are no sidewalks? Also, what are the rules regarding pedestrian directionality with regard to traffic? Answer: In the classic western movie High Noon, there’s an iconic scene moments before the villains arrive when Marshal Will Kane walks alone down the main street through Hadleyville, the sole person responsible for the safety of his town. Do you know which side of the road he walks

down? It doesn’t matter, because the story takes place before cars and bicycles were invented. From a traffic safety perspective, we may long for those simpler times. In this modern era, pedestrians, cyclists and drivers sometimes share the same space, and there’s a clear imbalance in outcomes if it doesn’t all go well. Of course, in those simpler times we didn’t have penicillin and the average life expectancy was 42, so there are some tradeoffs. You said you were taught to always walk against car traffic, and you’re right. The law states that where sidewalks are not provided or are inaccessible, pedestrians shall walk on the shoulder, if available, or on the outside edge of the roadway facing traffic. It’s also a good strategy for making sure you can see what’s coming. Putting pedestrians and cars on the same pavement is the ultimate example of an unfair fight, so you want every opportunity you can get to see a potential hazard and get out of the way. But does the law allow walking

in a bike lane? I can’t find any statute that specifically grants or denies permission (there are a few that imply it’s okay). However, the law does provide a definition of “roadway,” which includes every part of the highway used for vehicular travel, exclusive of the sidewalk and shoulder. That would seem to encompass bike lanes that are adjacent to the vehicle lanes, so it’s reasonable to conclude that pedestrians can walk in a bike lane when there isn’t an alternative. Cyclists, when you’re biking on the road, you’re supposed to follow the same rules as cars (with a few exceptions – some laws just don’t make sense when applied to bikes.) Ride the same direction as cars travel (it’s crazy to ride the opposite direction of traffic), and if you approach a pedestrian (even in a bike lane), go around them the same way a car would. Just in case there’s a cyclist out there arguing that the law requires them to ride as far to the right as is safe, allow me to point out that running into a pe-

destrian is fundamentally unsafe. Plus, the law makes an exception for riding to the right if there’s a hazard, and includes pedestrians as a potential hazard. It’s unlikely that any of us will encounter a handful of villains rolling into town on a steam train, but we can take responsibility for the safety of ourselves and others by following traffic rules and watching out for each other. For that, I’m sure Marshal Kane would be proud. Doug Dahl is a manager with the Washington Traffic Safety Commission, Region 11 and publishes TheWiseDrive.com.

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The Northern Light: December 16-22, 2021

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