The Northern Light: February 3-9, 2022 by Point Roberts Press

February 3 - 9, 2022

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Community Newspaper of Blaine and Birch Bay HHHECRWSSHHH Postal Customer

IN THIS

ISSUE

Birch Bay-Lynden repair has new timeline, page 3

42nd district senate race heats up, page 5

Hawkins looks back on city council years, page 10

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

City closes deal on Peace Portal Drive property By Grace McCarthy

(See Sale, page 3)

s Be Brave Washington co-founder Misty Flowers speaks to protestors supporting Canadian truckers against the Covid-19 vaccine mandate at Peace Arch State Park on January 29. The Bellingham-based group helped organize the event at the park that drew nearly 200 attendees, some of whom crossed state lines for the event. Photo by Grace McCarthy

Protestors support Canadian truck convoy against vaccine mandate By Ian Haupt As Canadian truckers and their supporters traveled to the nation’s capital this weekend to protest their government’s vaccination mandate, others protested mandates and border restrictions at Peace Arch State Park in support. Nearly 200 people protested under the Peace Arch in support of the “Freedom Convoy” headed to Ottawa on January 29, some reportedly coming from as far as northern Oregon and Idaho. News quickly spread last week that hundreds of truckers were headed for Par-

liament Hill in Ottawa to protest the vaccine requirement to cross the U.S./Canada border that went into effect January 15. The rally of trucks was being called the “Freedom Convoy.” But as more anti-vaccination supporters joined on, the demonstration grew to represent an overarching voice against government-imposed public health mandates and gained supporters from across the border. Be Brave Washington, a Bellingham-based group working to end emergency orders in Whatcom County, organized the event at the park with help from other organizations such as Nooksack Val-

Development at former airport site to bring McDonald’s, Taco Bell and retail By Ian Haupt Big Macs and Crunchwrap Supremes will soon be easily available to Blaine residents, as plans for development of the former airport site show McDonald’s and Taco Bell are coming to town. White-Leasure Development Company has submitted its building permit application to begin development of the fiveacre parcel at the southeast corner of the

truck route and H Street it bought from the city in September 2019. The parcel will be divided into five different lots, two of which McDonald’s and Taco Bell have spoken for. White-Leasure development operations vice president Ken Lenz said the other three lots are still for sale. He said his goal is to have businesses open by the end of the year. “McDonald’s and Taco Bell are eager to get going,” he said. “They want to be

open before November.” But White-Leasure is waiting on permit approval from the city before its contractor can start construction. Lenz said he hopes they can break ground by mid-February. White-Leasure is a general contractor and real estate services company based in Boise, Idaho. It specializes in retail (See Airport, page 7)

ley Parent Coalition, Be Brave Washington co-founder Misty Flowers said. “Our goal was to stand with truckers against mandates,” Flowers said. “People are concerned with the ongoing mandates and working together to try to get our lives back.” The main rally was held at noon at the Peace Arch, but protestors also lined along the truck route intersection at H Street. Through social media sharing, people around Washington and neighboring states caught wind of the protest and drove (See Mandate, page 2)

INSIDE

A downtown waterfront lot will soon be built out, now that Bosporus Properties Inc. purchased the 665 Peace Portal Drive property from the city of Blaine for $300,000. The deal closed January 31 after having its feasibility period extended several times. Blaine-based Bosporus Properties entered a purchase and sale agreement with the city in June 2021 after Nimbus Properties LLC rescinded its offer on the property that May. Blaine City Council extended the original feasibility period to September 20 and then again to November 30 because of difficulties developing on the west side of Peace Portal Drive. City council granted a final feasibility period extension when given options at the December 13, 2021 meeting to either extend the feasibility period, terminate the contract and remarket the property or terminate the contract and not immediately market the property. Bosporus Properties co-owner Hugh Wiebe said the property will likely become a residential rental building, but the developers are still finalizing what they will build. “We’re still trying to decide what to do there,” Wiebe said. Wiebe founded natural food company Creation Foods, which employs 100 people in its two factories on Odell Road. He also owns A-Z Storage and Harbor Side Apartments in Blaine. Wiebe said his business partner, Duane Cressman, has been a large push on the deal. Cressman co-founded Cressman Homes, a luxury home builder in Abbotsford, B.C. The city spent $283,000 to demolish the building previously located at 665 Peace Portal Drive in 2019. To hasten economic development, the city offered Bosporus two 6-percent rebates along with the $300,000 offer. Bosporus will receive a rebate when it submits a mixed-use building permit within the next six months as well as when the city gives Bosporus an occu-

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The Northern Light • February 3 - 9, 2022

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s People in support of the “Freedom Convoy” to Ottawa gathered at Peace Arch State Park on January 29 to protest vaccine mandates for truck drivers. Photo by Grace McCarthy Delivery through Viking Food

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native newspaper that includes Covid-19 stories that counter county and state health officials’ data, was handed out at the event. People held signs including “End all border mandates” and “Stand for health freedom.” This was the second of such border protests under the Peace Arch in the past two weeks, with the last being against Covid-19 travel restrictions on January 23. Edge Logistics and Transport Inc. vice president Dennis Wilson said he was unaware of the peaceful protests at the Peace Arch this weekend but was pleased the port of entry remained open. Truckers have blocked ports of entry in Alberta and Montana and on the East Coast in protest, closing the border to northbound travelers. “Can you imagine what that would be like here, on I-5?” Wilson said. Edge is a shipping company that offers daily pick-ups and deliveries from the U.S. and Canada. Based in Blaine, it transports goods mainly between Seattle and Vancouver, B.C. Wilson said Edge was lucky its nine truck drivers are all vaccinated, giving them no issues crossing the border. Kam-Way Transportation Inc. founder and CEO Kam Sihota said his company has drivers unwilling to get vaccinated and so they have been put on different routes that would not require them to carry supply into Canada. Kam-Way is a Blaine-based freight brokerage with a network of over 15,000 carriers nationwide, according to its website. It has a fleet of 140 trucks, 80

tractors and 600 more company trailers. Sihota showed some sympathy for unvaccinated Canadian truckers. “They’re in fear their livelihoods are in jeopardy,” he said. With the Occupational Safety and Health Administration withdrawing its vaccination and testing requirement January 26, unvaccinated U.S. employees of large employers with 100 or more employees are protected. However, the Canadian government’s border requirement prevents unvaccinated truckers from being able to travel across the U.S./Canada border, lowering their value to their employers and possibly putting them at risk of losing their job. Both Sihota and Wilson said this only stresses the already buckled supply chain. There’s a demand for truck drivers, warehouses are overstocked, shipping costs are rising and Canadian retail customers are in high demand for product, they said. “A lot of regular retail customers are asking for double, triple the amount of product being shipped into Canada,” Sihota said. He added there’s a huge shortage of trust for carriers headed to Canada due to issues crossing the border and U.S. customers often have doubts whether they will receive their Canadian product. “There are a lot of customers in Canada that are freaking out,” Wilson said. “Plus, they’re pissed with what’s going on.” Grace McCarthy contributed to the reporting of this article.

February 3 - 9, 2022 • thenorthernlight.com

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Whatcom County Public Works contractors continue to rebuild the 40-foot section of Birch Bay-Lynden Road that washed away in the November floods when the California Creek culvert failed. According to a January 31 news flash, public works expects the closed section of the road, just east of Ham Road, to reopen mid- to late-February. RAM Construction crews installed two 10-foot diameter culverts last week after waiting over a month for a weather window to be able to do in-water work. RAM is working to remove the temporary stream diversion and build up the embankment around the pipes. Public works said utility work to replace the waterline damages when the road washed out will be coordinated in the coming weeks. The road was previously expected to reopen mid- to late-January, but public works now anticipates the road to reopen by the end of this month. These are just temporary repairs; permanent repairs will follow at a later date, according to public works. As for Drayton Harbor Road, crews are monitoring the roadway regularly and will keep it open as long as it is safe to do so. If the road needs to be closed, public works said an update will be provided. One lane of the roadway is eroding into Drayton Harbor near the Shintaffer Road intersection. Public works said in December it was a low priority for final repairs because of low traffic volumes.

Sale ... From page 1

pancy permit within one year of receiving the building permit. The sale won’t impact the city’s 2022 budget because the city already accounted for its expected revenue, city manager Michael Jones said. “It feels almost as good as when the derelict building came down but not as good as what I hope to feel when a new project goes up,” Jones said of the sale’s closing. “I’m looking forward to the future and what a new building will bring to downtown Blaine.”

s RAM Construction crews work on temporary repairs to Birch Bay-Lynden Road on January 30. Temporary repairs are now expected to be complete mid- to late-February. Photo by Ian Haupt

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The Northern Light • February 3 - 9, 2022

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

Drop boxes open for the February 8 election

s Ballot drop boxes are open around Whatcom County for the February 8 special election. North county drop boxes include the Blaine Library, 610 3rd Street; North Whatcom Fire and Rescue Station 63, 4581 Birch Bay-Lynden Road; and Custer Elementary School, 7660 Custer School Road. Drop boxes are open until 8 p.m. Election Day. Ballots need to be postmarked by February 8 if returned by mail (no stamp needed). People may also vote at the voting center in the Whatcom County Auditor’s Office by 8 p.m. Election Day. Photo by Georgia Costa

Letters

Editor Grace McCarthy grace@pointrobertspress.com Reporter Ian Haupt ian@pointrobertspress.com Reporting Intern Georgia Costa prpintern@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 General Editorial Inquiries editor@pointrobertspress.com The Northern Light 225 Marine Drive, Suite 200, Blaine, WA 98230 Tel: 360/332-1777 Vol XXVII, No 33 Circulation: 10,500 copies

Circulation Independently verified by:

Next issue: Feb. 10 Ads due: Feb. 4

The Editor: I just returned from a Saturday shopping trip to downtown Blaine. In a parking lot and on the Peace Portal Way were trucks with all sorts of flags and “Stop the Mandate” signs. That is fine, opinions are good, but what is not good is the three American flags I found dragging on the ground and the five flags I found torn and frayed from flapping in the wind. I was raised to honor our flag and love it. It is a proud symbol, not an advertising tool. Your treatment of our national emblem is not patriotism, it is sacrilege when treated as I saw. A few “patriots” with degradation of our flag and hoped for domination rather than civil discourse is not only a crass demonstration, but renders our community subject of possible ridicule, not the pride and allegiance you hope for. Some citizens are sick of this, and sad and concerned for this community and country. Donna Starr Blaine

The Editor: Once again, there’s a huge weather disruption – this time on the east coast. At the time of this writing, over 100,000 customers with no power. A few weeks back there was a huge windstorm event across the entire central part of our country, leaving over 500,000 with no power. During our flood event here in November, power was out, albeit for a short time. To my mind, this is unacceptable any longer. It’s time for the power company to bury all new and refurbished power lines. Oh, I know it’ll cost them up front. You think repeated service in storms and paying lineman to repair these downed lines doesn’t cost them, too? Over and over? The only thing that doesn’t cost them is the rebates they give us for times when we are without their service. What’s that? You don’t get any break on your bill for having no service? Hmm. And immediate cost is about the only thing they are concerned with because of

the need to pay their investors. Here’s the deal: We regulate that business. The purpose of regulating businesses is so that they don’t cut corners on service or quality while pocketing all the profit they can get away with. Meat packers, food growers and packers, tire manufacturers, etc. They’re all regulated to ensure you get a safe product, time after time. And aren’t you glad of that? It’s time for the Public Utility District to approach the idea of regulating power lines to be underground for the safety and consistency of power we all pay for to be delivered. Shareholders can wait for their dividends for a while, don’t you think it’s time? Gary Meader Everson

Please send letters to letters@thenorthernlight.com no later than noon on Monday.

Civic Meetings Birch Bay Water & Sewer District: Second and fourth Thursdays, 4 p.m., district offices, 7096 Point Whitehorn Road, Birch Bay. Info and Zoom meeting link: bbwsd.com.

Blaine-Birch Bay Park and Recreation: Second Tuesday, 5:30 p.m., location varies. Info: bbbparkandrec.org. Virtual meeting info: bbbparkandrec.org/board-meetings.

Blaine City Council: Second and fourth Mondays, 6 p.m., Blaine City Council chambers, 435 Martin Street. Info and virtual meeting login: ci.blaine.wa.us.

Blaine Park and Cemetery Board: Second Thursday, 9 a.m., virtual meeting. Info: 360/332-8311, ext. 3330.

Blaine Planning Commission: Second and fourth Thursdays, 6 p.m. Info: blainepc@cityofblaine.com. Info for joining Zoom meetings: bit.ly/2CiMKnk.

Blaine School Board: Fourth Monday, 7 p.m., Blaine school district offices. Info and virtual meeting link: blainesd.org. North Whatcom Fire & Rescue: Third Thursday, 11 a.m., Station 61 at 9408 Odell Road and via Zoom. Info: nwfrs.net.

February 3 - 9, 2022 • thenorthernlight.com

Dzialo, Elenbaas and Sefzik announce bids for 42nd Legislative District senate seat CITY OF BLAINE By Grace McCarthy As races gear up for the August primary election, a slate of Whatcom County candidates announced their bids for the 42nd Legislative District’s state senate seat. Lynden driving instructor Russ Dzialo, Whatcom County Councilmember Ben Elenbaas and senator Simon Sefzik have joined the race with state representative Sharon Shewmake for the state senate seat. Russ Dzialo Lynden resident Russ Dzialo filed with the Public Disclosure Commission (PDC) to run as an independent candidate for the senate seat. Dzialo ran as a Republican for 40th Legislative District Position 2 representative seat in the November 2020 election. Dzialo, who earned his bachelor’s degree from the University of Phoenix, works as a driver’s education teacher and does gig economy jobs in Whatcom County. He said he made the switch to become independent after being tired of argument between political parties, and found inspiration in former presidential candidate Andrew Yang’s Forward Party and its belief in universal basic income. “We need to listen to both sides and find a happy medium,” he said. “I can speak more to the center and be a bridge to the gap, and listen to real solutions that aren’t just one-sided.” Dzialo recently resigned as treasurer for the Whatcom County Republican Party, in part, he said, because of the PDC opening an investigation after the party allegedly failed to timely and accurately disclose contributions and expenditures. All filings were signed by Dzialo, who wrote to the PDC that he took full responsibility for the errors, most of which were reporting a larger sum of contributions, made because of his busy schedule. PDC opened a formal investigation in October and after its initial hearing December 17, 2021, PDC executive director Peter Lavallee encouraged party chairman John Ramsey to work with staff to resolve the issue. If elected, Dzialo said he would like to improve the economy and find solutions for affordable liv-

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.

Friday, February 4 9:00am – City Council Retreat Thursday, February 10 9:00am – Parks and Cemetery Board Meeting 6:00pm – Planning Commission Meeting

s Russ Dzialo.

Courtesy photo

ing in Whatcom County. “We need to find solutions that will produce the American dream,” he said. “You work so hard where you’re drained and don’t have anything left.” Ben Elenbaas Whatcom County Councilmember Ben Elenbaas announced January 27 he will run as a Republican candidate for the senate seat. Elenbaas said he’s best fit for the position because of his experience as both a fourth-generation farmer along the Nooksack River and working at BP Cherry Point Refinery, two of the largest industries in the 42nd district. “I don’t know about it because I read about it or visited. I know about it because I’ve experienced it,” Elenbaas said. “I think there’s quite a few people in Olympia who wouldn’t know a pitchfork if they stepped on it.” Elenbaas is a graduate of Western Washington University’s Huxley College of Environment and serves on the Whatcom County Cattlemen’s Association and the Whatcom County Farm Bureau. “Immediately the number one priority is making sure we have all the support we can have for flood victims and making sure we have long-term solutions for the river,” he said. After that, Elenbaas said he will take a people-first approach to governing to help those experiencing homelessness, find better living-wage jobs and combat what he called the ‘assault’ on agriculture. Elenbaas was one of three candidates whom county council considered to appoint for the 42nd

Bullets cause $7,000 in damages to Birch Bay home Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office (WCSO) deputies have not found a suspect after a Birch Bay homeowner reported multiple bullets shot into their Anderson Road home. A homeowner in the 4800 block of Anderson Road, near Glendale Drive, reported to WCSO deputies that they arrived home to find bullet holes in windows and cabinets around 5:30 p.m. January 27. Five bullets shot into the home totaled $7,000 in

damages, WCSO spokesperson Deb Slater told The Northern Light in an email. Deputies were unable to find a suspect and will follow-up on the investigation if they receive a lead, Slater said. WCSO deputies considered someone could have been unsafely target shooting in a nearby wooded area but the investigation remains inconclusive, Slater said. No evidence outside of the home was found.

s Ben Elenbaas.

s Simon Sefzik.

File photo

Legislative District senate position left vacant by the late senator Doug Ericksen (R-Ferndale). If elected to senate in November, Elenbaas said he would likely continue to fulfill his first term on council, which ends January 2024. Simon Sefzik State senator Simon Sefzik (R-Ferndale) said he planned on retaining his senate seat, to which county council appointed him less than a month ago. “I made a commitment to serve the people of the 42nd district from day one,” he said. “A fresh, energetic voice is needed in Whatcom County.” Sefzik said his biggest priorities remain flood mitigation, agriculture and water policy, bringing back good-paying jobs and increasing affordable housing to Whatcom County. Sefzik worked full-time in the White House Management Office and distributed Covid-19 vaccines as an operations and logistics coordinator for Nomi Health in Colorado. Before recently graduating from Patrick Henry College, a private Christian school in Virginia, Sefzik interned for the White House Coronavirus Task Force and U.S. Congressman Ted Budd. The state senator serves on the health care, higher education, and housing and local government senate committees. If he retains his seat, Sefzik said he’d like to continue nurturing relationships he’s started among both Republican and Democrat legislators in Olympia. “I told members of county

File photo

council that I was willing to reach across the aisle and I’ve meant that every single day,” he said. “Those weren’t just words. That wasn’t just rhetoric. Those are things I truly believe.” Two-term state representative Sharon Shewmake (D-Bellingham) announced in November she also would run for the senate seat.

Monday, February 14 6:00pm – City Council Meeting Monday, February 21 City Offices Closed – Presidents’ Day

Tuesday, February 22 3:00pm – Civil Service Commission Meeting Contact information for staff and Councilmembers can be found on the City’s website. Call (360) 332-8311 or visit our website.

www.cityofblaine.com

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Dr. Granger, School Administrators and School Board Members As community members and parents we are thankful for your commitment to our children and our community. Your dedication the last few years has not gone unnoticed. We honor and commend each of you for your tireless work.

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The Northern Light • February 3 - 9, 2022

Sports Big fourth-quarter threes slide boys basketball by rival Nooksack Valley on senior night, post-season ahead for winter sports By Ian Haupt Blaine boys basketball beat a young Nooksack Valley team 52-49 on senior night Tuesday in the high school gymnasium. Two big three-pointers from senior Avery Dohner and junior Carson Lehnert were enough for the Borderites to fend off a Pioneer fourth-quarter comeback. Nooksack Valley has only one senior on its varsity team and started three freshmen on the night. Senior Scott Baldwin led the Borderites in scoring, with 14 on the night. Lehnert had 12 and senior Cole Thomas had nine. “In the grand scheme of things, it was nice to win on senior night,” head coach Brett Farrar said. “We didn’t play our best, but it’s nice to still win when we don’t play our best.” Blaine and Nooksack traded baskets for most of the game; with neither team getting more than a five-point lead, until the end of the third quarter, when Blaine finally established a considerable eight-point lead on Nooksack. But the Pioneers came out flying in the fourth quarter, making multiple stops and putting up 15 points. The rowdy home crowd grew quiet as their rivals continued to drain buckets. Dohner and Lehnert’s threes reignited the packed student section. The threes, a Baldwin two-pointer and two free-throws were enough for the Borderites to see out the game. They finished with 10 points in the fourth quarter after scoring 16 in the each of the previous two quarters. Farrar said it was a tough week for the team, which is preparing for post-season competition. He

s Senior Cole Thomas tries to block a layup in the Borderites 52-49 win on senior night. Photo by Ian Haupt hopes the team gets back to its best ahead of the upcoming district tournament. “I hope we play our best basketball this season,” he said. “I know we’ll bring our all.” The boys will travel to Ferndale Saturday, February 5 to play their last game of the regular season. The game is at 1:30 p.m. The boys are 11-5 this season. Girls basketball The Lady Borderites beat Squalicum 38-36 on the road last Wednesday and beat Oak Harbor 42-24 at home Friday. They then traveled to Anacortes where they lost 37-32 to the Seahawks. They were scheduled to play at Nooksack Valley Wednesday night. The girls will then host

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Ferndale Thursday, February 3, at 7:15 p.m. and Sedro-Woolley Saturday, February 5, at 1:30 p.m. to close out their regular season. They are 6-9 this season. Wrestling The boys varsity wrestling team scrambled with Sehome and Meridian January 26. Head coach Tom Hinz said the team wrestled 25 times and had 23 wins. “I think we’re ready for the post-season,” he said. The team is sending 24 wrestlers to the regional tournament this weekend in Granite Falls. The girls team will send 11 girls to the regional tournament this weekend at Meridian. “We’re a young team,” head coach Damon Higgins said. “My hope is for as many girls to wrestle through regionals as far as possible.”

s Senior Scott Baldwin takes a jump-shot in the Borderites 52-49 win over Nooksack Valley on senior night. Baldwin led Blaine in scoring with 14 points on the night. Photo by Janell Kortlever

s Adrian Gonzales wrestles a Sehome student in the Borderites’ dual scramble with Sehome and Meridian last week. Photo by Rie Pomeroy

Blaine schools return to in-person classes, cases hit record-high prior to remote learning The Blaine school district returned to in-person learning this week after moving class remote for last week’s four-day school week. Superintendent Christopher Granger announced the return to in-person learning in his January 28 community message, saying the district was in a much better situation from a staffing and health perspective. The district hit a record-high of Covid-19 cases the week before the district went remote. According to the school district’s Covid-19 dashboard, on its website, the district had a total of 153 reported Covid-19 cases the week of January 17 to January 23.

The week before it had 144 cases. Communications director Lisa Moeller said when the dashboard is updated, the previous week’s totals are expected to increase as more test results come in. The dashboard said 118 cases were reported the week from January 10 to January 16, now it says 144. In the week ending January 23, 54 primary school students, 27 elementary school students, 45 middle school students, 19 high school students and eight staff members tested positive, according to the district dashboard. Cases have dropped dramatically since. Last week, the district had a

total of 36 cases reported; nine at the primary school, seven at the elementary school, seven at the middle school, 11 at the high school and two district staff. Testing is available this week on the north side of the middle school gym, across from H Street from the Boys and Girls Club, 10:30-11 a.m. As the district continues to have staffing shortages in all schools and buildings, it is looking for substitutes in all positions. Granger encourages anyone with an interest in education or who would like to lend a helping hand to reach out to the district’s human resources department.

February 3 - 9, 2022 • thenorthernlight.com

Airport ... From page 1

shopping centers, hotels and downtown mixed-use redevelopment projects, according to its website. In fall 2019, White-Leasure bought the north end of the remaining Gateway parcel, formerly the site of the Blaine Municipal Airport, while Family Care Network (FCN) signed for the other 2.5-acre property on the south end of the block. The sale agreements for the properties became the end of an era for the old airport site. FCN just closed the sale in June 2021 for $337,590 after it delayed negotiations and focused its resources on its other facilities during the pandemic. FCN has 15 other medical facilities in Whatcom and Skagit counties.

While the development process has restarted, the timeline is still in question. FCN remains concentrated on the pandemic but is slowly moving forward with plans to fill the city’s need for a medical provider. Meanwhile, White-Leasure is picking up the pace with its development. The project’s general binding site plan, which includes a public hearing, has been approved. The company is awaiting approval of its specific binding site plan and land disturbance plan, which applications were determined complete on December 23, 2021, and January 14. City community planner Sta-

cy Clauson said the applications are currently under review and could require revisions before building begins. The revision process typically takes 90-120 days. According to the plans submitted to the city’s planning department, McDonald’s will take a 4,600-square-foot lot and Taco Bell will have 2,300 square feet. The other three lots are planned to be 7,225, 8,400 and 5,300 square feet. Traffic will enter the retail space from Grant Avenue. The plans currently list O’Reilly Auto Parts on the 7,225-square-foot lot, but Lenz said they have pulled out of the space. Lots 2, 4 and 5 of the

plans remain open and for sale. Blaine city manager Michael Jones said it’s always good to have more businesses coming to Blaine as they create jobs and provide services to the community. Businesses also help fund the city’s tax base, he said,

ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING

which will help fund the city’s development. As for being open by the end of the year, he said it’s in White-Leasure’s court. “But to have it open in 11 months’ time or so, that sounds like an achievable goal,” he said.

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The Northern Light • February 3 - 9, 2022

Health & Wellness Local choices in health, healing & fitness. 7 Elements Spa opens, pampering Birch Bay residents Photos by Georgia Costa

s The manicure and pedicure room at the new 7 Elements Wellness Spa in Birch Bay. The wellness spa opened January 12 and offers Watsu, massage therapy, nail care, airbrush tanning, acupuncture and myofascial release. s A massage room in the 7 Elements Wellness Spa. Swedish, deep tissue and hot stone massages are available starting at $110-$120 for a 60-minute massage.

s The cedar pool used for Watsu, a water therapy that combines shiatsu massage and Tai Chi to reduce body pain and create deep relaxation. Once opened, sessions will start at $150 for 45 minutes.

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February 3 - 9, 2022 • thenorthernlight.com

Health & Wellness Local choices in health, healing & fitness. 5 ways to make your diet more nutritious Healthy eating should be a goal all year long. Choosing nutrient-rich foods at the grocery store is a great way to accomplish that goal. The American Heart Association says research suggests the standard American diet is energy-rich (calorically heavy) but nutrient poor. And according to Canada-based registered dietician Nicole Osinga, though Canadians are making smarter food choices, room for improvement remains, especially in regard to limiting consumption of red meat. Nutrient-rich foods are those that are high in minerals, vitamins and other nutrients that are vital for health without too much added sugars, sodium and saturated fat. Such foods include

fruits, vegetables, whole grains, low-fat dairy, and lean protein sources that can serve as the building blocks of a nutritious diet. These tips can make incorporating nutritious ingredients even easier. Read nutrition labels The Nutrition Facts label included on items sold in North America is a significant source of information. Consumers may only read the first few lines, but it’s best to read the entire label before deciding whether or not to purchase a given product. Some foods may feature endorsements on their packaging and the inclusion of such labels indicates they’re healthy choices. For example, the American Heart Association’s Heart-Check mark

indicates the product aligns with their recommendations for an overall healthy eating plan. Choose more whole grains Whole grains are low in fat and high in fiber. They’re also a smarter source of carbohydrates because they contain complex carbs that keep a person feeling fuller longer. Try to avoid products labeled as “enriched,” as they’ve had the germ and bran removed from the grain to produce a smoother texture, which means they need to be refortified with nutrients. Eat dark, leafy greens Green vegetables are rich in vitamins, minerals, phytonutrients, and plant-based omega-3 fatty acids. Kale, spinach and collard greens can be added to soups,

stews, scrambled eggs, and salads for a powerful punch of nutrition. Pick pulses Pulses are essential to plantbased diets, but they also can be enjoyed by meat eaters. The Global Pulse Federation says pulses, which include foods like lentils and chickpeas, are rich in protein and fiber and low in fat. They also contain complex carbohydrates that take longer to break down. Research shows

pulses can lower blood cholesterol, reduce blood pressure and help with weight management. Go with skim or low-fat dairy Dairy products are rich in calcium and vitamin D, but those nutrients may come at the cost of saturated fat. Choose reduced fat dairy options in recipes and when snacking. These are just some of the ways individuals can make their diets more nutritious.

Flu activity rises in Washington state Flu activity across Washington has risen to moderate levels and, for the first time in roughly two years, Washington state is reporting multiple flu-related deaths. Three individuals, all age 65 or older, who tested positive for influenza A have died. The Washington State Department of Health (DOH) releases a state influenza update every Friday. Flu is a highly contagious disease that can cause severe illness and death, even in healthy people. Last season, flu activity was historically low, likely due to increased Covid-19 precautions, such as mask wearing, remote learning, occupancy limits, and work from home measures taken during the pandemic. The last time Washington reported a flu-related death was during the 2019-2020 flu season when there were 114 influenza-associated deaths, including 36 deaths at this point in the year. “Hospitalizations across the state remain high due to omicron, and other respiratory viruses like influenza could overload them even more,” said Dr. Tao Sheng Kwan-Gett, state chief science officer. “Take steps now to get you and your family vaccinated against the flu. Vaccination will help keep you and your family healthy and out of the hospital, especially those with chronic health conditions.” Vaccination against influenza and Covid-19 can also reduce the risk that a person might get coinfected with both viruses at the same time. To prevent severe outcomes from the flu, DOH recommends everyone 6 months of age and older get their annual flu vaccine. For a list of locations, visit vaccines.gov. Additionally, everyone should wash their hands often with soap and water, cover their coughs and sneezes, and stay home when they’re sick. Masks also help prevent the spread of Covid-19 and the flu. Although the timing and dura-

tion of flu seasons vary, flu activity typically peaks between December and February, but significant activity can last as late as May. For weekly flu activity reports, edu-

cational materials, vaccine information, and other flu prevention resources, visit knockoutflu.org. Courtesy Washington State Department of Health

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The Northern Light • February 3 - 9, 2022

Hawkins looks back on service to the city of Blaine

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www.pasodelnorte.net s Charlie Hawkins in front of the Blaine Marine Park pirate playground that he considers one of the top accomplishments during his 16 years on Blaine City Council. Photo by Grace McCarthy

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Charlie Hawkins gave his final farewell after 16 years on Blaine City Council, leaving a legacy that he represented for generations of old time Blaine families. Hawkins served several terms in the ‘90s on the city’s park and cemetery board and former board of adjustment, an appeal board for zoning decisions, before being elected to council in 2005. He ended his 16-year tenure at the end of 2021. Hawkins comes from a long line of Blaine residents on both his mother’s and father’s side of the family who settled in the area in the 1880s and early 1900s. Growing up in Blaine during a time when the population was only 1,200, Hawkins said he spent his childhood working in berry fields and clam digging before starting his career commercial fishing in 1966. Changes in the city during Hawkins’ lifetime included watching the city’s gravel roads become paved, stores leave downtown as big-box stores popped up around the county and fewer commercial fishermen boats in the Blaine Harbor. “If you grew up in a town, you have a love for the city and doing things to make it better,” Hawkins said. Hawkins said some of his biggest accomplishments include construction of the pirate playground at Blaine Marine Park and award-winning Lighthouse Point Water Reclamation Facility, as well as the city’s involvement in maintaining the historic Plover ferry. “It’s a cooperative effort. If you want to get something done, you have to get help from the citizens. They have to tell you what they want,” he said. “You can’t do ev-

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erything because there’s only so much money so you have to pick and choose.” Along with other councilmembers, Hawkins’ time on council saw through economic development on the old Blaine Municipal Airport property, including the property sale to Family Care Network. Hawkins said he originally was against selling the airport land, but ended up satisfied that the land was sold to companies interested in long-term investment in the city. “Once it’s done, you can’t be against it forever,” he said. “You have to turn around and do what is best for the city.” Former city manager Gary Tomsic, who started working for the city in 2000, said Hawkins helped him get to know the people in Blaine when he was hired. “Charlie represented a tie to the history of Blaine and to the early families that lived in Blaine and were leaders at the time,” Tomsic said. “He grew up with people who were active in the community.” Tomsic lauded Hawkins’ leadership style as a practical man who valued community input to guide his decisions on council. “He was a very pragmatic type of guy,” Tomsic said. “He’s not stubborn but he thinks things through pretty well and may be weighing things with a different set of criteria than someone who’s younger or hasn’t lived here as long.” Although Hawkins will no longer be involved in city council, he said he’ll still pay attention to council’s actions and stay involved in the Drayton Harbor Shellfish Protection District. “As I reflect on my years on council, I want to thank all the city staff and volunteers who make Blaine such an amazing place. Without their dedication and persistence, I’m sure our list of accomplishments wouldn’t look as good,” Hawkins said in a prepared statement. “I also want to thank the people of Blaine for trusting me to represent them on city council. It has been my honor and pleasure.”

February 3 - 9, 2022 • thenorthernlight.com

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Legal NOTICE TO CREDITORS In the Superior Court of the State of Washington, In and for the County of Whatcom, In re the Estate of Richard Donald Adams. Probate No. 21-400996-37. Judge: David Freeman. The Personal Representative named below has been appointed as personal representative of this estate. Any person having a claim against the decedent must, before the time the claim would be barred by any otherwise applicable statute of limitations, present the claim in the manner as provided in RCW 11.40.070 by serving on or mailing to the personal representative or the personal representative’s attorney at the address stated below a copy of the claim and filing the original of the claim with the Clerk of this Court. The claim must be presented within the later of: (1) Thirty days after the personal representative served or mailed the notice to the creditor as provided under RCW 11.40.020(1)(c); or (2) four months after the date of first publication of the notice (twenty-four (24) months if notice is not published). If the claim is not presented within this time frame, the claim is forever barred, except as otherwise provided in RCW 11.40.051 and 11.40.060. This bar is effective as to claims against both the decedent’s probate and nonprobate assets. Date of first publication: 2/3/22. Personal Representative: Lisa Robbins. Attorney for the Estate: Keith Bode, WSBA #7791, 314 5th Street, P.O. Box 688, Lynden, WA 98264-0688, Tel. (360) 354-5021

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IN THE SUPERIOR COURT OF THE STATE OF WASHINGTON IN AND FOR THE COUNTY OF Whatcom In Re the Estate of Michael Ronald Seal, Deceased. NO. 21-4-00983-37. PROBATE NOTICE TO CREDITORS (RCW 11.40.030). JUDGE: Robert E. Olson. 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: January 27, 2022 Personal Representative: Elisabeth A. Christensen aka Lisa A. Christensen 1905 Washington Street Bellingham, WA 98225 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. 21-4-00983-37.

IN THE SUPERIOR COURT OF THE STATE OF WASHINGTON IN AND FOR WHATCOM COUNTY In re the Estate of: STEVEN ALAN DAGGS, Deceased. No. 224-00037-37. NOTICE TO CREDITORS. Judge David Freeman. The Administrator named below has been appointed and has qualified as Administrator of this estate. Any person having a claim against the decedent must, before the time the claim would be barred by any otherwise applicable statute of limitations, present the claim in the manner as provided in RCW 11.40.070 by serving on or mailing to the Administrator or the Administrator’s attorney at the address stated below a copy of the claim and filing the original of the claim with the court in which the probated proceedings were commenced. The claim must be presented within the later of: (1) thirty days after the Administrator served or mailed the notice to the creditor as provided under RCW 11.40.020(1)(c); or (2) four months after the date of first publication of the notice. If the claim is not presented within this time frame, the claim is forever barred, except as otherwise provided in RCW 11.40.051 AND 11.40.060. This bar is effective as to claims against both the decedent’s probate and nonprobate assets. Date of Filing of Notice to Creditors: January 19, 2022 with Clerk of Court: Date of First Publication: January 27, 2022 Name of Administrator: JAMES E. KRAXNER 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: January 21, 2022 AVERY ELDER LAW, P.S. STEVEN D. AVERY, WSBA #35262 Attorney for Administrator JAMES E. KRAXNER www.averyelderlaw.com

IN THE SUPERIOR COURT OF THE STATE OF WASHINGTON IN AND FOR WHATCOM COUNTY In re the Estate of: ALSON D. WENDLAND (AKA DALE WENDLAND), Deceased. No. 22-4-00063-37. NOTICE TO CREDITORS. Judge David Freeman. The Administrator named below has been appointed and has qualified as Administrator of this estate. Any person having a claim against the decedent must, before the time the claim would be barred by any otherwise applicable statute of limitations, present the claim in the manner as provided in RCW 11.40.070 by serving on or mailing to the Administrator or the Administrator’s attorney at the address stated below a copy of the claim and filing the original of the claim with the court in which the probated proceedings were commenced. The claim must be presented within the later of: (1) thirty days after the Administrator served or mailed the notice to the creditor as provided under RCW 11.40.020(1)(c); or (2) four months after the date of first publication of the notice. If the claim is not presented within this time frame, the claim is forever barred, except as otherwise provided in RCW 11.40.051 AND 11.40.060. This bar is effective as to claims against both the decedent’s probate and nonprobate assets. Date of Filing of Notice to Creditors: January 24, 2022 with Clerk of Court: Date of First Publication: January 27, 2022 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: January 24, 2022 AVERY ELDER LAW, P.S. STEVEN D. AVERY, WSBA #35262 Attorney for Administrator CINDY MAXWELL

IN THE SUPERIOR COURT OF THE STATE OF WASHINGTON IN AND FOR THE COUNTY OF Whatcom In Re the Estate of Chih Kwang Li, Deceased. NO. 22-400043-37. 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: February 3, 2022 Personal Representative: Alvin Li 2605 Bakersfield Court Henderson, NV 89052 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. 22-4-00043-37.

IN THE SUPERIOR COURT OF THE STATE OF WASHINGTON IN AND FOR WHATCOM COUNTY In re the Estate of: JOHN STEVEN CAUSEY, Deceased. No. 224-00063-37. 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: January 24, 2022 with Clerk of Court: Date of First Publication: January 27, 2022 Name of Administrator: ELIZABETH ANNE CAUSEY 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: January 24, 2022 AVERY ELDER LAW, P.S. STEVEN D. AVERY, WSBA #35262 Attorney for Administrator ELIZABETH ANNE CAUSEY www.averyelderlaw.com

IN THE SUPERIOR COURT OF THE STATE OF WASHINGTON IN AND FOR WHATCOM COUNTY In re the Estate of: GARRY J. HUMMER, Deceased. No. 22-4-0068-37. NOTICE TO CREDITORS. Judge Lee 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: January 25, 2022 with Clerk of Court: Date of First Publication: January 27, 2022 Name of Personal Representative: CHRISTOPHER HUMMER 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: January 25, 2022 AVERY ELDER LAW, P.S. STEVEN D. AVERY, WSBA #35262 Attorney for Personal Representative: CHRISTOPHER HUMMER

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The Northern Light • February 3 - 9, 2022

Real Estate Windermere Real Estate/Whatcom Inc. 8105 Birch Bay Square Street I-5 Exit 270, Blaine 360-371-5100

BLAINE, BIRCH BAY & SEMIAHMOO

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.

F E AT U R E D L I S T I N G S - B L A I N E

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4255 West Road MLS #1837127 $139,500

Wooded almost 1 acre lot just outside city limits. Included in price, Completed and approved Department of Natural Resource assessment, septic design and permit, comprehensive wetlands mitigation plan, storm water design, surveyed, electrical and city water lines available and in the street, all the questions answered. Possible to get building permit this year and get started building your new home.

Billy Brown 360-220-7175

225 Marine Drive

MLS #1796276 $1,500,000 Exclusive opportunity as this is the only residence allowed in Blaine marina. Million $ marine views from this 1200 sq. ft. penthouse residence on 3rd floor cannery style office bldg. right on Blaine Marina. Stunning Mt Baker sunrises over Drayton Harbor. Watch your investment grow as rest of property is a consistent commercial office lease revenue producer. Amazing location & unique live/invest opportunity. City marine park across St. & walk to downtown Blaine.

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8756 Waters Edge Way

MLS #1878928 $220,000 Beautiful wooded 5 acre parcel bordering future Bay to Bay trail leading to Birch Bay to the south, City of Blaine to the north. & new California Creek estuary park property to the east. Located just a 5 min drive to shopping, schools, Blaine’s waterfront downtown district, salt water marina accessing San Juan Islands/Canadian Gulf Islands, & Birch Bay’s sandy beaches, 4 bedroom Glendon Bio filter Septic System installed.

Billy Brown 360-220-7175 Jeff Carrington 360-220-3224

8403 Kickerville Road

MLS #1829414 $1,150,000 Equestrian waterfront dream home or sprawling 6.2 acre estate residence w/multiple use possibilities. For those looking for quiet & beautiful rural Setting only minutes to I-5 & services. Home has been completely & artfully remodeled w/slab granite surfaces & artisan quality tile work. Fabulous kitchen & Spa quality Luxurious main bath. Dramatic vaulted family room w/fireplace. Incredible sunny South facing deck with pool & ideal for outdoor entertaining. 4+ Big bedrooms.

Lisa Kent 360-594-8034

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Leah Crews 360-305-4747

388 Clark St

MLS #1881134 $645,000 14th Street Outstanding opportunity for multi-generaMLS #1864373 $139,000 tional living in one of Blaine’s most soughtInvestor Alert! Commercially zoned lot with- after core neighborhoods...Salishan! The in Blaine city limits and close to the US/Ca- original 3 bedroom/1.5 bathroom Craftsnadian border. Lot is 30,056 +/- square feet man charmer features fresh interior paint and zoned for a mix of commercial, office and brand new kitchen with on-trend grey and light industrial uses. Located next to the cabinetry, white quartz counters & stainless truck border crossing and close to schools, steel appliances. The nearly 1200 square gas stations and grocery stores. Buyers to foot connected modern addition features a do their due diligence and verify all informa- generously sized bedroom, bathroom, living/ dining area + kitchen. tion prior to purchase.

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Jen Freeman 360-815-0803

F E AT U R E D L I S T I N G S - S E M I A H M O O

8145 Chehalis Road

MLS # 1883841 $799,000 Premier construction & attention to detail resulted in this delightful northwest contemporary masterpiece, welcome to 8145 Chehalis! Multiple upgrades in the last year include two-bathroom remodels, brand new carpeting, new composite decking and pergola, new garage doors, interior & exterior paint, upgraded interior doors + 6 month old washer/dryer. Show stopping curb appeal sets the tone and you’ll love the fantastic open concept design...the vaulted ceilings and the unique upper-level office/loft area Unrivaled Birch Bay Village amenities include marina, beaches, golf.

DING

5414 Quail Run

8252 Beach Way

MLS #1882681 $575,000 This 2,100 SQ ft home with four large bedrooms, is located 300 steps from Cottonwood Beach in Birch Bay. Enjoy clamming, crabbing, boating, and miles of beachcombing! This property is perfect for the Air B&B market with an open indoor floor plan and plenty of outside decks. Enjoy custom entertainment areas, that feature a gas fireplace, bar, hot tub and so much more. Come home to a resort lifestyle in a quiet neighborhood, a must-see.

Jeff Carrington 360-220-3224

MLS #1882636 $1,190,000 Stunning quality built custom home on the 1st fairway at Semiahmoo. Quail Run--tucked inside the neighborhood is a sought after location that offers peacequiet-privacy and some of the best neighbors you will ever meet! Elegant but charming in a friendly way, this well built home has a 3 car garage-incredible storage--fabulous vaulted ceilings & a floor plan that is timeless. All main floor living with chef’s kitchen, ideal home office space & a laundry/mudroom that is perfect in the PNW. Floor plan flows effortlessly. Two private guest suites with open family room.

Semiahmoo Parkway

MLS #1875933 Woodberry at Semiahmoo consists of 29 single family homes. Phase 1 starting soon! Woodberry is a gated community with all underground utilities, sidewalks, natural gas, and located at The Resort Semiahmoo in the City of Blaine. Pricing being finalized for phase one. The plans include 3 two level home plans ranging from 2454-3029 square feet +/- and 1 single level 2036 square foot home plan +/-. Plans include two and three car garages. Live on Garibaldi Lane, Court or Way. Amenities are Ala Carte and include: Semiahmoo Golf & Country Club, Semiahmoo Marina..

Brian Southwick 360-815-6638

Kathy Stauffer 360-815-4718

8815 Oertel Drive

MLS #1867952 $2,950,000 This all-brick Chicago themed residence is a once in a lifetime home in beautiful Semiahmoo. Stunning views of Semiahmoo bay & Canada. Access to the beach right in your backyard. The deck & patio down by the water make this home such an amazing place to host get togethers. The opportunities are endless with this property. You could rent the back part of the house with its own separate entrance. Or you could keep it all to yourself. Main kitchen features a walk-in pantry, commercial refrigerator, double oven, commercial dishwasher, huge island, rolling library ladder.

Hunter Crim 360-927-2217

www.windermere.com Legal NOTICE TO CREDITORS In the Superior Court of the State of Washington, In and for the County of Whatcom, In re the Estate of Brenton Noble Smith. Probate No. 22-4-0006537 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: 2/3/22. Personal Representative: Michael Smith. Attorney for the Estate: Keith Bode, WSBA #7791, 314 5th Street, P.O. Box 688, Lynden, WA 98264-0688, Tel. (360) 354-5021

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IN THE SUPERIOR COURT OF THE STATE OF WASHINGTON IN AND FOR THE COUNTY OF WHATCOM In re the Matter and Estate of: DONNA JEAN BARRON, Deceased. No. 21-4-0103737. SECOND AMENDED PROBATE NOTICE TO CREDITORS. RCW 11.40.030. The Personal Representative named below has been appointed as Personal Representative of this estate. Any person having a claim against the decedent must, before the time the claim would be barred by any otherwise applicable statute of limitations, present the claim in the manner as provided in RCW 11.40.070 by serving on or mailing to the Personal Representative or the Personal Representative’s attorney at the address stated below a copy of the claim and filing the original of the claim with the court in which the probate proceedings were commenced. The claim must be presented within the later of: (1) Thirty days after the Personal Representative served or mailed the notice to the creditor as provided under RCW 11.40.020(1)(c); or (2) four months after the date of first publication of the notice. If the claim is not presented within this time frame, the claim is forever barred, except as otherwise provided in RCW 11.40.051 and 11.40.060. This bar is effective as to claims against both the decedent’s probate and nonprobate assets. Date of First Publication of Notice: February 3, 2022 Personal Representative: SUSAN JEAN PEVONAK Presented by: Whatcom Law Group, P.S. Roger L. Ellingson, WSBA #19292 Attorney for Personal Representative PO Box 1258 / 289 H Street Blaine, WA 98231-1258 (360) 332-7000; Fax: (360) 332-6677

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IN THE SUPERIOR COURT OF THE STATE OF WASHINGTON IN AND FOR WHATCOM COUNTY In re the Estate of: HOLLY LYNN FLORIS, Deceased. No. 22-400102-37. NOTICE TO CREDITORS. Judge David Freeman The Administrator named below has been appointed and has qualified as Administrator of this estate. Any person having a claim against the decedent must, before the time the claim would be barred by any otherwise applicable statute of limitations, present the claim in the manner as provided in RCW 11.40.070 by serving on or mailing to the Administrator or the Administrator’s attorney at the address stated below a copy of the claim and filing the original of the claim with the court in which the probated proceedings were commenced. The claim must be presented within the later of: (1) thirty days after the Administrator served or mailed the notice to the creditor as provided under RCW 11.40.020(1)(c); or (2) four months after the date of first publication of the notice. If the claim is not presented within this time frame, the claim is forever barred, except as otherwise provided in RCW 11.40.051 AND 11.40.060. This bar is effective as to claims against both the decedent’s probate and nonprobate assets. Date of Filing of Notice to Creditors: February 1, 2022 with Clerk of Court: Date of First Publication: February 3, 2022 Name of Administrator: JAMES ROBERT FLORIS 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: February 1, 2022 AVERY ELDER LAW, P.S. STEVEN D. AVERY, WSBA #35262 Attorney for Administrator JAMES ROBERT FLORIS www.averyelderlaw.com

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February 3 - 9, 2022 • thenorthernlight.com

Covid-19 in Whatcom County, by school district boundaries: Recent one-week case rates, cumulative counts and vaccinations Blaine Vaccination: 75% Case rate: 1,772

Lynden Nooksack Valley Vaccination: 58% Vaccination: 55% Case rate: 1,632 Case rate: 1,708

Ferndale Meridian Vaccination: 71% Case rate: 1,653 Vaccination: 67%

Mount Baker Vaccination: 50% Case rate: 878

Case rate: 1,105

Bellingham Vaccination: 82% Case rate: 1,327

s The case rate is the number of confirmed Covid-19 cases per 100,000 people over the past week. Covid-19 vaccination is the percentage of the population that has had at least one vaccine shot. Rates were last updated January 22.

By Grace McCarthy There have been 3,525 Covid-19 cases in Whatcom County in the past week, or 10.5 percent of the county’s total Covid-19 cases since the start of the pandemic, according to Whatcom County Health Department data. Whatcom County averaged 1,399 Covid-19 cases per 100,000 people in a one-week period, which is a downward trend from the previous week, according to January 30 state data. The Whatcom County health department dashboard continues to be impacted by data reporting delays from the state. Covid-19 data on the county dashboard was only updated up to January 22 and new cases by school district areas were not available by press time. The Blaine school district area had the highest Covid-19 cases

in the county, with 1,772 cases per 100,000 people. Mount Baker school district had the lowest case rate at 878 cases per 100,000. Ten county residents died from Covid-19 in the past reporting week, bringing the virus’ death toll up to 234 people. On February 1, 53 PeaceHealth patients had either been admitted for Covid-19 or tested positive for Covid-19 after being admitted for another reason. Children 5-17 years old have the highest Covid-19 transmissions in the county, with 2,386 cases per 100,000 people. People 25-44 years old followed with 1,841 cases per 100,000. The health department released a weekly Covid-19 report for January 16 through January 22. Seventeen vaccinated people and 34 unvaccinated people were hospitalized that week for (See Covid, page 15)

January 25 Whatcom County Council meeting roundup The latest news from the January 25 Whatcom County Council meeting. Alderson Road golf cart zone Whatcom County Council voted 7-0 to establish a 25 mph speed limit on Alderson Road from east Loft Lane to Gemini Street in Birch Bay after a public hearing where no community members spoke on the issue. The ordinance will effectively extend the golf cart zone on Alderson Road to Gemini Street, which leads to the Birch Bay Activity Center and Bay Horizon Park, according to the memorandum. Ordinance 2018-023, which created Birch Bay’s golf cart zone, states golf carts are legal to drive on “all county roads posted 25 mph or less that lead to, and are contiguous with Birch Bay Drive.”

Inmate housing agreement Council voted 7-0 to continue an interlocal agreement with Kittitas County for jail services when extra housing is needed for Whatcom County Jail inmates. The agreement, which first began in January 2020, will continue to allow Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office to move offenders to the Kittitas facility when needed. 2022 Whatcom County budget amendment Council voted 4-2-1 to amend the 2022 Whatcom County budget in the amount of $1,619,951 to pay for the county’s Covid-19 vaccination sites, hire a response system manager for the GRACE/ LEAD programs and transfer in support of Geneva Bioretention Pilot Project, a proposed stormwater treatment project in

the Lake Whatcom watershed. Councilmembers Ben Elenbaas and Tyler Byrd opposed and councilmember Kathy Kershner abstained. The Ground-level Response And Coordinated Engagement (GRACE) program is a community-based effort to find solutions for individuals who frequently use the emergency and criminal justice systems, according to the county’s website. It offers help to individuals with complicated health care concerns, like behavioral health needs and unstable or no housing. Cherry Point Ferndale Subarea Plan Council voted 7-0 to introduce an ordinance for public comment that would repeal the Cherry Point Ferndale Subarea Plan and delete a reference to the subarea plan in the Whatcom

County Comprehensive Plan. The Cherry Point Ferndale Subarea Plan was adopted in 1981. Since then, the Growth Management Act was adopted in 1990, which allows subarea

plans only if consistent with the county’s comprehensive plan. Some land-use plan designations in the subarea plan are not consistent with the comprehensive plan.

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School board moves forward with Granger’s contract extension In the January regular meeting, the Blaine school board passed a motion to accept superintendent Christopher Granger’s annual performance evaluation as satisfactory. The board then passed another motion to move forward with the intent to extend his contract through June 30, 2025. Both motions carried 4-0.

Through the second motion, the board designated for the board president Dougal Thomas and vice president Todd Nunamaker to enter into discussion with Granger on the parameters of his employment contract, according to the action item. Thomas is directed to bring a final contract recommendation to

the full board for review and consideration of approval no later than the May 23 regular meeting. Following the meeting, board member Erika Creydt said she voted against both action items; however, she had a bad connection in the remote meeting and a “yes” vote was recorded. The item only needed a majority.

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The Northern Light • February 3 - 9, 2022

Sheriff’s Reports Jan. 20, 4:01 p.m.: Motor vehicle accident injury on Bruce Road, Custer. Jan. 20, 4:19 p.m.: Behavioral health issue on Outrigger Loop. Jan. 20, 4:42 p.m.: Theft on Dawn Lane, Custer. Jan. 20, 5:11 p.m.: Senile subject on Iverson Lane, Custer. Jan. 20, 6:44 p.m.: Property lost on Semiahmoo Parkway. Jan. 20, 8:41 p.m.: Music on Terril Drive. Jan. 21, 9:24 a.m.: Traffic stop on Valley View and Birch Bay-Lynden roads, Custer. Jan. 21, 10:31 p.m.: Shots on Blaine Road. Jan. 21, 8:42 a.m.: Behavioral health issue on Surf Place. Jan. 21, 12:15 p.m.: Traffic hazard on Portal Way, Custer. Jan. 21, 1:56 p.m.: Trespass on Custer School Road, Custer. Jan. 21, 2:24 p.m.: Theft on Birch Bay Drive. Jan. 21, 3:35 p.m.: Vehicle theft on Grandview Road. Jan. 21, 4:15 p.m.: Domestic verbal on West Road. Jan. 21, 7:08 p.m.: Neighborhood dispute on Petticote Lane. Jan. 22, 2:26 a.m.: Music on Harbor Drive. Jan. 22, 9:37 a.m.: Behavioral health issue on Surf Place. Jan. 22, 11:53 a.m.: Neighbor-

hood dispute on Birch Bay-Lynden Road. Jan. 22, 2:29 p.m.: Littering on Valley View Road, Custer. Jan. 22, 4:07 p.m.: Motor vehicle accident injury on Portal Way and Valley View Road, Custer. Jan. 23, 7:43 a.m.: Suspicious vehicle on Lighthouse Drive. Jan. 23, 7:44 a.m.: Behavioral health issue on Surf Place. Jan. 23, 8:31 a.m.: Theft on Sole Drive. Jan. 24, 7:46 a.m.: Suspicious circumstances on Surf Place. Jan. 24, 9:06 a.m.: Behavioral health issue on Birch Bay-Lynden Road. Jan. 24, 11:54 a.m.: Fraud on Anderson Road. Jan. 24, 12:46 p.m.: Theft on

Jan. 22, 9:13 p.m.: Assist agency on 14th Street. Jan. 22, 10:34 p.m.: Paper service on Runge Avenue. Jan. 23, 12:29 a.m.: Assist agency on Vista Drive. Jan. 23, 2:29 p.m.: Domestic dispute, no assault, on B Street. Jan. 23, 2:41 p.m.: Behavioral health issue on 3rd Street. Jan. 24, 9 a.m.: Burglary report on Bayview Avenue.

foot 48. Bar bill 51. An idiot 53. Performed with the voice silent 55. Body fluids 56. Rhythmic patterns 58. “__ my i’s” 59. Type of wrap 60. It shows who you are 61. Carousel 64. Type of college degree 65. Molding 67. Closes again 69. Verses 70. Surface DOWN 1. Short, thick stick 2. Rhode Island 3. Animals of the horse family 4. Very important persons 5. Folk singer Di Franco 6. Boredom 7. Long speech 8. Footballer Newton 9. Expression of sorrow or pity 10. Linear accelerator

11. One quintillion bytes 12. Smallest interval in Western music 13. Box 15. Cheese dish 18. Make a mistake 21. Done by all people or things 24. Circumference 26. Chum 27. Electrocardiogram 30. Sandwich chain Jimmy __ 32. Showed old movie 35. Important event on Wall St. 37. Where wrestlers work 38. Free from contamination 39. Eastern Canada coastal region 42. Slang for gun 43. High schoolers’ test 46. Fathers 47. Call it a career 49. Productive 50. Musical groups 52. Yellowish-brown 54. Lowest point of a ridge 55. Beloved late sportscaster Craig

Jan. 24, 12:51 p.m.: Assist citizen on H Street. Jan. 24, 9:35 p.m.: Alarm on Semiahmoo Parkway. Jan. 26, 9:05 a.m.: Trespass complaint on H Street. Jan. 26, 9:45 a.m.: No contact order violation on Baldwin Place. Jan. 28, 1:07 p.m.: Fraud on Harrison Avenue. Report by Blaine Police Department. 57. Fill up 59. Cardinal number that’s the sum of 5 and 1 62. Frost 63. Jewel 66. Atomic #45 68. Top lawyer ANSWERS: THENORTHERNLIGHT.COM

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Trivia at The Vault: Thursday, February 3, 7 p.m., 277 G Street. This week’s theme: Winter Olympics. Info: thevaultwine.com. Live Music at The Vault: Friday, February 4, 7 p.m., 277 G Street. Featuring: RJ Rex. Info: thevaultwine.com. Sip and Paint: Wednesday, February 9, 6:30 p.m., the Vault Wine Bar + Bistro, 277 G Street. With Brian Drake with Art and Happiness. $75 per person, includes $30 food/beverage credit, art supplies and instruction. Info: thevaultwine.com. Trivia at The Vault: Thursday, February 10, 7 p.m., 277 G Street. This week’s theme: Popular vocalists. Info: thevaultwine.com. Valentine’s Wine Paired Dinner: Friday, February 11, 6:30-9:30 p.m., The Vault Wine Bar + Bistro. Five paired courses. $80 per person. Reservations required. Info: the vaultwine.com or 360/392-0455. Big Bucks Bingo: Saturday, February 12, 1–3 p.m., Blaine Senior Center, 635 G Street. $15 includes eight games, three cards per game. Early bird at 12:30 p.m., two games $1 each. Info. 332-8040.

Whatcom Dream Financial Literacy Class: Tuesdays, February 22–March 29, 6:30–7:30 p.m., The CAP Center, 508 G St. Learn skills to give you a more secure financial future. Free. Info and registration: 360/296-0441 or email kevin@thewhatcomdream.org. Sponsored by the Community Assistance Program. Live Music at The Vault: Friday, February 25, 7 p.m., 277 G Street. Featuring: Adrian Clarke and Tom Sandblom. Info: thevaultwine.com. Blaine Chamber of Commerce Annual Meeting: Thursday, February 24, 5–7 p.m., Loomis Trail Golf Club, 4342 Loomis Trail Road. Dinner, awards and silent auction to raise funds for Blaine’s Old Fashioned 4th of July. $35 per person or $280 for a table of 8. Register at blainechamber.com. Ongoing Blaine Food Bank: 500 C Street. Open Mondays 9 a.m.–noon, Wednesdays 5–7 p.m., and Fridays 9 a.m.–noon. Delivery options available. Info:360/332-6350 or blainefood@hotmail.com. The Bridge Food Distribution Program: Fridays 3:30–5 p.m., The Bridge Community Hope Center, 4815 Alderson Road. Registration required at thebridgehope.com or call 360/366-8763. Volunteers welcome. CAP Clothing Bank: Mondays and Fridays, 9 a.m.–noon and Wednesdays, 5-7 p.m. 508 G Street. The Community Assistance Program clothing bank is now located in the basement of the CAP Center providing free clothing and linens. Donations accepted only during open hours or by special arrangement. Info: blainecap.org or 360/392-8484. The Bridge Clothing Bank Boutique: Open Wednesday–Saturday, 10 a.m.–6 p.m, The Bridge Community Hope Center, 4815 Alderson Road. Donations by appointment, call 360/366-8763. 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.

February 3 – 9 at Blaine. Not for navigation.

DATE

Native Plant Sale: Now through March 7. Order online at whatcomcd. org/plant-sale for pick up March 19 and 20. Sponsored by Whatcom Conservation District.

Trivia at The Vault: Thursday, February 17, 7 p.m., 277 G Street. This week’s theme: general knowledge. Info: thevaultwine.com.

Police Reports

Crossword ACROSS 1. Neckwear 7. Fish parts 13. Cooking 14. Quality 16. Rural delivery 17. Popular superhero 19. Partner to Pa 20. Shivering fits 22. Wrath 23. Linguistics pioneer 25. Large integers 26. A way to prepare food 28. Group of badgers 29. Peyton’s little brother 30. Rock out 31. Danish krone 33. Take from with force 34. Baroque musical instrument 36. Zodiac sign 38. Hebrew alphabet letter 40. Independent member of a clone 41. Type of garment 43. Satisfy 44. One point south of due east 45. A way to wipe out 47. Moved quickly on

Dahl Lane. Jan. 24, 7:07 p.m.: Motor vehicle accident on Birch Bay-Lynden and Kickerville roads. Jan. 25, 5:25 a.m.: Vehicle theft on Birch Bay-Lynden Road. Jan. 25, 5:47 a.m.: Behavioral health issue on Surf Place. Jan. 25, 12:46 p.m.: Vehicle prowl on Blaine Road. Two suspects arrested. Jan. 25, 3:12 p.m.: Theft on Cedar Avenue. Jan. 25, 3:45 p.m.: Neighborhood dispute on Seashell Way. Jan. 25, 3:45 p.m.: Drugs on Harbor Drive. Jan. 25, 5:20 p.m.: Traffic hazard on Loomis Trail Road and Portal Way.

Coming up

We 9 1:16 am

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Weather

Precipitation: During the period of January 24-30, 0.6 inches of precipitation was recorded. The 2022 year-to-date precipitation is 5.4 inches.

Temperature: High for the past week was 52°F on Jan. 28 with a low of 30°F on Jan. 28. Average high was 43°F and average low was 35°F.

Courtesy Birch Bay Water & Sewer Dist.

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. Parents of Addicted Loved Ones (PAL) Meetings: Mondays 6:30–8 p.m., CAP Center, 508 G Street, Blaine. A support group for parents of adult children dealing with addiction, but open to anyone (18 or older) seeking to learn a better way to help an addicted love one. Evidence-based, structured curriculum and offer peer support at no cost. Info: palgroup.org or email Bev and Dave at wamillards@comcast.net. Submissions to Coming Up should be sent to calendar@thenorthernlight.com no later than noon on Monday.

February 3 - 9, 2022 • thenorthernlight.com

Reps. Larsen and Shewmake Covid ... page 13 show Birch Bay library support From Covid-19. Sixty-seven

percent the total Covid-19 cases were from people unvaccinated or

partially vaccinated. Six people died that week: Two unvaccinated women in their 70s, an unvaccinated woman in her 80s, an unvaccinated woman in her 90s, and a vaccinated man and woman in their 70s.

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.

Contemporary Jewel in Birch Bay Village! 8027 Niska Road • $1,280,000 Stunning remodel shows brand new with panoramic views of Birch Bay, Baker, Strait & San Juan Islands! Modern details & custom finishes make this 3 bed/3 bath a showstopper upon arrival. Primary suite w/designer closet, spa bath & access to patio. Bonus room complete w/wet bar. Upstairs a rare combo of natural light beams & open space that equal entertainers dream. Chef’s kitchen, walk-in pantry, 2 eating bars, stainless package, dual sinks & granite. Unlimited use of space with massive “sun room,” darkening shades, wrap around deck, surrounded by wall of windows. More to enjoy in a huge backyard, RV & boat parking, patio space and outdoor shower. Gated security, marina, golf, parks, pool, beaches & more!

s U.S. representative Rick Larsen (WA-02), Friends of Birch Bay member Pat Alesse and state representative Sharon Shewmake (D-Bellingham) sign wave in support of Proposition 2 at the intersection of Harborview and Birch Bay-Lynden roads on January 29. Photo by Doralee Booth

Heather T. Taylor

w w w. B i r c h B a y L i v i n g . c o m

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s U.S. representative Rick Larsen (WA-02) in front of the Vogt home on the Whatcom County Library System’s Birch Bay property.

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Photo by Connie Taylor

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Whatcom County Council has approved changes to county code that will eliminate exemptions to mandatory garbage pickup

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to be picked up twice-monthly and billed through the property tax roll. Opponents of the proposal cited a number of reasons for their opposition, primarily that the minimum service level was too high. “This exceeds the needs of 80 percent of those surveyed (in a 2016 online survey sponsored by the county solid waste division) who self-haul or use tags,” Kimberly Butts said. Ken Calder, also opposed to the chang- s Back in 1976, a group of civic-minded people got together to plan a 4th of July celebration, the first since 1916. On June 20, they had a reunion at Ruby White’s house. See story, page 16. Standing, from l.: Fred DeHaan, Rosy Negron, Carla Scherer, Pauli DeHaan, George B y G r a c e M c c a r t h yes, submitted a petition signed by 364 sea- Scherer, Pat Jorgensen, Doreen Peltier. Seated: Norma Peltier, Ruby White, Kris Manning. Photo by Shelley Damewood sonal and full-time residents asking that If you struggle to balance a healthy budcouncil delay the decision until September get, local nonprofits are here to help. to allow a recently formed solid waste subFinancial literacy nonprofit Whatcom committee of the Point Roberts CommuDream will offer six money management nity Advisory Committee to continue to classes from Tuesday, September 28 until look at the issue. Cites client base and “increasing erts hospital district on June 26 that Unity according to Unity Care. Tuesday, November 2 at the new CommuThose in favor of the change as well as Care NW would end its contract to proThe number of people being served at nity Assistance Program (CAP) building, community turmoil” county vide services on the Point as of December the Point Roberts Clinic, as well as the 508 G Street. Classes will be held 6:30-staff pointed out that PRCAC had been pondering the garbage collection B y M e g O l s O n 31, 2018, but would provide services on a number of visits, have been declining, ac7:30 p.m. every Tuesday. for over month-to-month basis if needed until June cording to the resolution. The number of Whatcom Dream is a nonprofit that two years, held numerous public a n d P a t g r u B B 30, 2019 and help with a possible transi- visits per year shrank from 1176 to 1033 started in Bellingham in 1999 to meetings, educate sponsored an online survey and sentThe out a mailer. Unity Care NW is done with the Point tion to an alternative service provider. between 2015 and 2017, which is deresidents struggling with finances. “There have been numerous opportuni- Roberts clinic. According to the June 25 resolution, the nonprofit’s founders realized the reason (See Hospital, page 8) ties for people to put in their two cents’ Citing declining use, a disproportionate Point Roberts Clinic does not fit with why their working low-income neighbors worth,” remained in poverty was because they Arthur Reber said. “This process administrative burden and “communi- the other clinics Unity Care NW operhaspropbeen very thorough and collaborative,” ty turmoil,” the board of directors of the ates in Ferndale and Bellingham, which didn’t know how to manage money taxpayers’ association president Mark non-profit health care provider voted at its it described as “patient centered medierly, said Kevin Stray, a Whatcomsaid Dream volunteer who will teach the BlaineRobbins. classes Chamber of commerce president June 25 meeting to discontinue the con- cal homes.” Close to half of the visits to allpointbulletin.com Dee Gough said her association also sup- tract to operate the Point Roberts Clinic. the Point Roberts clinic are for urgent this fall. facebook.com/allpointbulletin “We think finances are an important ported the proposal, agreeing that mandaNotice was delivered to the Point Rob- care, and not for primary medical care, slice of everyone’s life and if we can toryhantrash pickup was the obvious solution dle [money] well, we can make everyone’ s to the perennial problem of dumping garlives better,” he said. bage on the roadsides. Classifieds ........................................ 20 The classes will teach budgeting,Jeff hanHegedus with the Whatcom County Coming Up ...................................... 19 dling new and old debt, credit scores andDepartment said by establishing a Health running three weekends in August. B yanother M e weekend g O l sofOfamily n Birch Bay’s seaside festival offered fun September 3-5. The Birchs Bay history, achieving and maintaining finan- sminimum mandatory service level for all Kiniski’ ReefChamber Tavern of is Commerce partneringhosted with the Garden ............................................. 15 event, help from by Blaine-Birch ParkRoberts and Recreation District 2 and Friends of Birch Bay Library.a Attendees enjoyed Library ............................................ 18 cial stability, retirement planning developed and the fun-filled properties, as with determined “The Bay Point Arts and Music the foundation, offering location, planactivities such as a pancake breakfast, outdoor games and water,” rubber duck on page 16. funds for this year’s psychology behind money. which properties have a water connection, Festival is kid back on the saysderby. Arts More ningphotos assistance and Obituaries ........................................ 22 ChuckitKinzer/CKimageart.com Stray, who has a business degree from lead to vendor stability because Foundation founder and festival organizer event. “We decidedPhoto it would to by make longer so Opinion .............................................. 4 St. Martin’s University, said he sees peomore users would support the system. Craig Jacks. more people can enjoy it,” said tavern Seniors ............................................ 18 ple struggle the most with debt, long-term After being put on the shelf for a year, manager Allison Calder. The first weekend Tides ................................................ 10 planning and responsible spending. (See Garbage, page 7) the festival will be back for its 23rd year, (See Arts & Music, page 14) Financial classes are geared toward peo-

Discover Birch Bay Days brings community fun Free financial literacy class offered in Blaine

Unity Care NW decides against renewing clinic contract

Online Inside

Arts and music fest makes a comeback

Blaine mailbox stores use creativity as they wait for the U.S. July to open4 Canada borderBirthday Point Roberts Happy PARADE

foot warehouse in September 2020 that allowed it to store over 20,000 boxes awaiting cross-border STARTScustomers. AT 12 NOON along “We used up all of the creativity we had Gulf Rd.the from Marine Dr. towhich Tyee Dr. to maximize space we had, is what prompted renting the warehouse,” Baron said. Baron and other mailbox operators are mostly catering to Canadian companies that need products from the U.S. forwarded. Although business has been better, he emphasized his situation is not detrimental and he has leaned into his faith and fo-

Single-use plastic bags ban starts October 1 By eMily Feek Sales of single-use plastic bags will be banned in Washington state beginning on October 1 after governor Jay Inslee rescinded the proclamation delaying the original January 1, 2021 start date. The ban prohibits the sale of single-use plastic bags for grocery stores, restaurants, small vendors and retail businesses, according to a department of ecology (DOE) press release. Instead of using these bags, businesses can either sell customers bags

that are compliant with the ban or customers can bring reusable bags. Stores can sell paper bags or more durable plastic bags for eight cents. The eight-cent charge, mandated by law, is not a tax, but is kept by the merchant both to encourage customers to bring their own bags and to account for the increased cost of compliant bags. While the ban goes into effect on October 1, businesses can implement changes sooner, said Dave Bennett, DOE solid waste management program spokesperson.

“Nothing is preventing a business from charging a fee and using compliant bags right now,” Bennett said. “We encourage those businesses to do that and start making those changes now.” The bag ban is intended to cut down on pollution caused by plastic bags, which are difficult to recycle and can clog recycling sorting machines, according to the DOE. In addition to the ban, Inslee signed a new state law regarding plastics use and (See Plastic bags, page 4)

cused on what he can control. AFTER PARADE FAMILY ACTIVITIES: Todd Robinson, Security Mail Services Breakwaters Bar & GrillThe manager, H echoed Baron’s sentiments. at Pointhas Roberts Marina. last year-and-a-half been hard but with boxes stacked high around he said H Kiniski’s Reefhim, Tavern he’s in a much better place than he would have predicted. “When [the border] first closed down, I would have never anticipated being closed this long. I thought three months, maybe, tops,” Robinson said. “I’m pleased with

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ple earning low incomes, but Stray said all are welcome. Classes will be offered to about 20 people, but there’s not a set limit. Scheduling in advance is recommended, but attendees B y G r a c e M c c a r t h y BEGIN THE DAY AT THE can also show up to the classes. Center 1437 Gulf Over a year-and-a-half after theRd. U.S./ “We hope a lot of people will be inter- Community Breakfast 7:15-11:15 PREPmailbox benefit Canada border closure andam Blaine ested, come out, learn more about moneyPancake stores wait patiently foram thefeaturing return of and how to deal with it,” Stray said. “We’re Flag Raising Ceremony 11:30 PRloyal Winds always excited to put on another class in Canadian customers, all while they’ve settled into an adapted business routine. Blaine.” Mail Boxes International owner Brant The program will offer free financial mentoring to people who finish the course. Baron said his parcel store has changed its No childcare is available during the eve- business strategy to stay busy during the ning classes, so people will need to plan border closure. To deal with parcels yet to be picked up, (See Financial classes, page 4) the H Street business rented a 4,800-square-

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Noticing a difference in to-go orders recently? The state’s new plastic laws may be why B y G e o r gi a C o s t a If you’ve noticed to-go order changes at your favorite local restaurants, you’re likely not the only one. Washington’s single-use serviceware law went into effect January 1. Now when picking up a takeout order, to-go cutlery and condiment packets must be requested rather than automatically included.

The new law’s intent is to “modify encouraged consumer habits that reduce and eliminate waste,” said Heather Church, waste reduction and recycling coordinator at the Washington State Department of Ecology (DOE). Church added in an email to The Northern Light that the law is not a ban on single-use items, but, instead, requires single-use items covered under the law to

only be distributed to customers who request them. These items include utensils, drink stirrers, cold cup lids and sauce packets. “This decreases the amount of unused and unwanted items that are disposed of in landfills, contaminate composting and recycling streams, and become roadside litter,” Church said. Peace Arch City Café, in the heart of downtown Blaine, has been around for 10 years but the

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single-use plastic ban is nothing new to the restaurant, co-owner Kylie Bestul said. “We never have automatically put single-use plastic items in to-go orders,” Bestul said. “Over 50 percent of our customers don’t want any of those things.” She believes customers have been moving in the direction of a waste-free lifestyle for a while now. “It’s not an insurmountable layer of complexity. Since the customer is our revenue, we need to accommodate them. We support the new ban, it’s in the right direction,” Bestul said. “As long as the customer gets what they want.” Bestul said the café stays well stocked with to-go items because of the state’s fluctuating Covid-19 mandates for businesses during the pandemic. According to data from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, 8.7 percent of three million tons of plastic was recycled in 2018. Businesses save money longterm when reducing plastic because they don’t spend as much purchasing to-go inventory that won’t be used, said Brandi Hutton, toward zero-waste coordinator at Sustainable Connections in Bellingham. The DOE is responsible for implementing the new plastics law, and

Sustainable Connections helps Whatcom County businesses reduce their waste and manage it responsibly. Maine and California have similar to-go policies in place, Church said. The new law is the first part of the state’s Senate Bill 5022 that went into effect last July, with the rest of the changes following in the next few years. The next change, slated in 2023, will require plastic trash bag and beverage bottle producers to include a minimum amount of recycled plastic. Plastic household, wine and dairy milk containers will be required to follow suit in the next few years. The DOE said on its website the recycled plastic minimum will increase domestic markets for recycled materials and reduce economic dependence on newly-created plastics. Under Senate Bill 5022, plastic foodservice items made of expanded polystyrene, commonly known as Styrofoam, will start becoming outlawed in 2023 with packing peanuts and then will expand to food service containers – such as Styrofoam to-go plates and cups – and recreational coolers in 2024. “You have to invest in reducing dependence on plastic,” Hutton said. “The aim is to educate people.”

The Northern Light: February 3-9, 2022

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