The Northern Light: February 17-23, 2022 by Point Roberts Press

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February 17 - 23, 2022

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IN THIS

ISSUE

New building coming to downtown, page 3

Blaine sports triumph, pages 6 and 7

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

WCSO deputies released from hospital, page 8

Antigen test soon an option for Canada travel By Grace McCarthy

s Westside Pizza opened its new Blaine location in the Cost Cutter plaza on February 16.

Westside Pizza opens in Cost Cutter plaza By Grace McCarthy A popular pizza joint has just opened its doors in Blaine. Westside Pizza opened its newest location adjacent to Cost Cutter, at 1733 H Street, on February 16. The 3,660-square-foot restaurant offers an arcade, flat-screen TVs and three dining rooms, some of which may be reserved for private parties, said Dusty Manderson, franchise owner of the Blaine location. Draft beer and wine are available to be paired with Westside’s signature pizzas, pastas and chicken wings.

“We’re really interested in getting involved in the community, whether it’s sponsoring teams, the school ordering personal pizzas for summer reading for kids,” Manderson said. “We just want to be part of jumping into Blaine and being part of their everyday activities.” The restaurant will be open to dine-in customers from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. Monday through Thursday and 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. Friday and Saturday, with the possibility of additional delivery hours after dining rooms close, the owner said. Online orders receive a 25-percent discount and there will be carry out specials.

Protesters block Pacific Highway crossing for three days, stalling truck traffic By Ian Haupt A convoy of truckers and supporters blocked the Pacific Highway border crossing for three days following weeks of continued Canadian protests against the government’s vaccine mandates and border restrictions. The nationwide protests have shut down the nation’s capital, closed multiple ports of entry along the U.S./Canada border and just this week

Photo by Grace McCarthy

had Prime Minister Justin Trudeau invoke emergency orders. It was the first border demonstration on the West Coast tied to what’s being called the “Freedom Convoy” protests. The blockade stalled B.C.’s main point of entry for commercial truck traffic, either forcing transport companies to use the Sumas crossing or postpone deliveries for the day. In the evening of February 14, local

Surrey Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP), assisted by a RCMP tactical team and surrounding area detachments, cleared protesters who had formed a blockade just north of the port of entry February 12 and remained demonstrating, according to a RCMP news release. Traffic crossings resumed as normal February 15. (See Protest, page 3)

Westside has locations in Bellingham, Lynden, Everson and Ferndale. Nationally, Westside Pizza offers its slices in nearly 40 locations across the west coast and Texas. Jeff Parks, Westside’s director of development, said the pizza franchise is set apart by its dough made in-house every day and other fresh ingredients. “We’re excited to come to Blaine and hope that everybody gives us a shot,” Parks said. “We’re going to work really, really hard to make sure everyone has great service and we hope everyone enjoys the addition to the community.”

INSIDE

Fully vaccinated travelers will soon have the option to show proof of a negative antigen test, instead of a PCR test, when entering Canada. Canadian government officials announced the changes will go into effect Monday, February 28. Since late December, vaccinated travelers have been required to show proof of a negative PCR test taken within 72 hours in order enter Canada. Public Health Agency of Canada (PHAC) announced February 15 the government will allow people to take antigen tests, which are typically cheaper and provide quicker results than PCR tests, to enter the country. However, an antigen test must be taken the day before travel and be administered through a healthcare clinic, laboratory or telehealth. At-home antigen tests won’t be accepted, according to PHAC. Canada will still accept PCR tests taken within 72 hours of travel. Canadian officials said the relaxing of border regulations is a result of Covid-19 dropping in Canada as the omicron variant declines from its peak. “As provinces and territories adjust their public health measures, and as we transition away from the crisis phase, it is now time to move towards a more sustainable approach to long-term management of COVID-19,” PHAC officials wrote in the February 15 announcement. The Canadian government will also drop its recommendation to avoid nonessential travel that it put in place as the omicron variant began to spread through the U.S. and Canada. Unvaccinated children under 12 years old who travel with a vaccinated adult will no longer need to quarantine for 14 days. Unvaccinated Canadians will still need to take a Covid-19 test when arriving to Canada and then again on their eighth day in the country. They must also continue quarantining for 14 days after arrival. Most unvaccinated non-Canadian residents will continue to not be able to travel into the country unless they are exempt. Travelers are still required to use the ArriveCAN app to enter Canada.

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Coming Up . . . . . . . 14 Classifieds . . . . . . . 11 Letters . . . . . . . . . . . 4 Police . . . . . . . . . . . 14 Sports . . . . . . . . . 6, 7 Tides . . . . . . . . . . . . 14

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The Northern Light • February 17 - 23, 2022

Update: Birch Bay library #ID4

With only an estimated 50 votes left to count in the February 8 special election, plans for financing construction of the Birch Bay Vogt Community Library through a voter-approved tax initiative won’t pass. Proposition 2022-2, on February 8 special election ballots, proposed creating a Birch Bay Library Capital Facility Area (LCFA) that would create an LCFA board to issue bonds to finance the expected $6.5 million library. Whatcom County Library System officials have previously said they expected property owners within the LCFA boundaries to pay 11 cents per $1,000 of assessed property value. But a LCFA boundary will not be an option in the immediate future, as Proposition 2 only has garnered 56.9 percent of votes in support.

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The LCFA requires a 60-percent supermajority in favor and 40 percent of voters from the November 2021 general election to have voted. As of February 9, 1,875 voters were in support of Proposition 2, while 1,418 voters made up the 43 percent against the LCFA district. In total, 3,293 ballots have been counted for Proposition 2. If the estimated 50 votes were all for Proposition 2, the proposition would need to have 2,006 “yes” votes to reach the supermajority. But the current 1,875 votes plus 50 votes is only 1,925. Results were last tabulated February 9, and the next ballot count is 5 p.m. Thursday, February 17. The Whatcom County auditor’s office will certify election results Friday, February 18.

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February 17 - 23, 2022 • thenorthernlight.com

Modern mixed-use building being constructed downtown By Grace McCarthy An empty lot at the corner of H and 3rd streets will soon be the site of a modern three-story building, thanks to a project from Blaine residents Jen and Pat Freeman. Jen Freeman, a Windermere Real Estate broker, is overseeing the construction of a 6,800-square-foot mixed-use building on her downtown lot across from the Blaine police station. The three-story building will have a 1,000-square-foot commercial unit at the street level facing H Street and a residential unit on the top three floors, Freeman said in an email to The Northern Light. Project renderings show the building having a rooftop deck with views of Drayton Harbor. Freeman said she would like to see the commercial space have a small boutique or professional services such as an attorney’s office. She will start to actively advertise for a commercial tenant

Protest ... From page 1

Canada Border Services Agency senior spokesperson Patrick Mahaffy told The Northern Light in an email February 14 that the Pacific Highway border crossing remained open but travelers were being encouraged to use alternative ports of entry as the road beyond the crossing was blocked by protesters. “What I can tell you is that the CBSA recognizes border disruptions affect both travellers and industry and is working collaboratively with law enforcement partners to restore normal border operations at affected ports of entry as quickly as possible,” he wrote Monday. Over the three days, a total of 16 people were arrested, according to RCMP, with four Saturday and 12 Monday night when RCMP cleared the blockade.

as construction progresses. The building is expected to take about seven months to complete. The contractor is Lynden-based Northwest Commercial Construction, which built Blaine’s Starbucks on Peace Portal Drive, Freeman said. Blaine resident Gary Smith, architect at Abaton Projects, designed the building, which Freeman describes as an urban loft styled as Pacific Northwest contemporary. Smith said he took inspiration from historic buildings in downtown Blaine, Seattle and Vancouver as well as Blaine’s fish packing facilities. The building is Smith’s first in Blaine. The building was one of the first to be reviewed under the city of Blaine’s new downtown design code updated in 2018. “We want to make it both aspirational in what Blaine wants to be, but also acknowledging the town’s history,” Smith said. “We wanted something to set a standard and we hope that’s what it does.”

s Northwest Commercial Construction is building a three-story, mixed-use space at the corner of H and 3rd streets. A 1,000-square-foot commercial unit will be on the street level, while one residential unit will take over the upper floors. Image by Gary Smith of Abaton Projects/courtesy Jen Freeman

Multiple demonstrations at border crossings across the country were cleared and reopened to traffic February 14 following Trudeau’s call on the Emergencies Act to strengthen and support Canadian law enforcement agencies. A blockade on the highly trafficked Ambassador Bridge, between Detroit and Windsor, Ontario, was also cleared Monday. According to Canadian news reports, the majority of protesters at the Pacific Highway border crossing arrived and stayed through Saturday, while only a few remained in the rain Monday. Some individuals also gathered on the U.S. side over the three days to show their support for the Canadian protesters. On January 29, three weeks before, nearly 200 people protested under the Peace Arch in support of the “Freedom Convoy” that was at the time headed to Ottawa, the nation’s capital.

Elsewhere, Canadian truckers had blocked ports of entry in eastern parts of the country and effectively prevented northbound travelers from crossing. Blaine-based Edge Logistics and Transport Inc. vice president Dennis Wilson was thankful then that B.C. ports of entry remained open to traffic and Edge could deliver to customers in Vancouver as usual. This week, however, he had to face the inconvenience. 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 had its freight that was received February 11, pre-cleared for the Pacific Highway crossing and ready to be delivered to customers in Vancouver, February 14. But when the Canadian protesters blockaded the crossing

through Monday morning, Wilson said Edge considered having its freights rerouted and cleared for the Sumas crossing, until they heard the current wait time was over two hours. On top of that, the process to have all of the freight approved entry into Canada at a different port – which Wilson said only happens in rare circumstances – can take hours. So Edge decided to send drivers home and not run to B.C. for the day. “Just said screw it,” Wilson said. “We’re not running today.” Mahaffy said CBSA was con-

tinuously monitoring changes in demand at alternate point of entry and allocating resources, adjusting staffing levels and hours of service at those crossings to minimize processing times and potential delays. “The CBSA would like to thank all travelers for their collaboration and patience,” he wrote. With the traffic cleared to cross Tuesday, Wilson said Edge doubled-up on deliveries and pickups into B.C. to make up for the lost day. “It went surprisingly smooth,” he said.

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The Northern Light • February 17 - 23, 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.

Stafholt resident celebrates 100 years

Publisher & Managing Editor Patrick Grubb publisher@pointrobertspress.com Co-publisher & Advertising Director Louise Mugar lmugar@pointrobertspress.com Editor Grace McCarthy grace@pointrobertspress.com Reporter Ian Haupt ian@pointrobertspress.com Reporting Intern 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 Contributors In This Issue Doug Dahl The Northern Light 225 Marine Drive, Suite 200, Blaine, WA 98230 Tel: 360/332-1777 Vol XXVII, No 35 Circulation: 10,500 copies

Circulation Independently verified by:

s Catherine Valentine Wilson celebrated her 100th birthday on Valentine’s Day with friends and family at the Good Samaritan Society – Stafholt nursing home. Photo by Georgia Costa

B y G e o r gi a C o s t a Catherine Valentine Wilson celebrated her 100th birthday on Valentine’s Day at Good Samaritan-Society – Stafholt. Her friends and family were there to commemorate a century of good health, joy and strong faith. Daughters Marcia Hoelzen, who lives in Bellingham, and Anna Wilson, who came from Jacksonville, Florida, attended the celebration. Hoelzen brought her son, Alex, and Wilson brought her daughter, Vanessa. Catherine was surrounded with love on

her birthday, as her friends at the Blaine nursing home were with her to enjoy a big pink raspberry cake accompanied by ball toss and other games. “Catherine is an awesome mom,” Anna said. “She has always loved us unconditionally.” Born in Georgia, Catherine was one of the youngest of 12 siblings. Wilson said Catherine’s sister died at 104 years old, and her husband died at 93. She left Georgia at 18 years old and moved to California, where she married her late husband, a dentist, and had two kids. In 1969, she moved to Florida where

Letters The Editor Could Chief Tanksley identify who he chose to voluntarily serve on the LEMART (I believe it stands for: Law Enforcement Mutual Assistance Response Team) intended to assist in essentially internal investigations of police conduct? I believe he chose two individuals last year. I would also be interested in a brief

Correction

summary of their experience. I believe this should be public information. Doug Tomaso Blaine Please send letters to letters@thenorthernlight.com no later than noon on Monday.

In an article in the February 10 issue of The Northern Light titled “U.S. lawmakers have yet to receive CBP apology for Iranian-American detention, DelBene says,” U.S. Customs and Border Protection was spelled incorrectly. We regret the error.

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 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.

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she worked as a secretary at a Southern Baptist church. “Strong faith has helped her lived so long, as well as being social and always connected to the church and family,” Anna said. Catherine said her good genetics and the staff at Good Samaritan are the two things keeping her alive and well, and that the lord decided for her to live to 100. Catherine has also lived a healthy life by avoiding alcohol and smoking, and exercising regularly. “She always says, ‘It’s time to take my exercise’ like she’s taking ibuprofen,” Hoelzen said.

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

Blaine-Birch Bay Park and Recreation: Second Tuesday, 5:30 p.m., location varies. Info: bbbparkandrec.org. Virtual meeting info: bbbparkandrec.org/board-meetings. CHANGE: March meeting will be 3:30 p.m. Blaine Park and Cemetery Board: Second Thursday, 9 a.m., virtual meeting. Info: 360/332-8311, ext. 3330. 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 17 - 23, 2022 • thenorthernlight.com

Upcoming Whatcom Marine Research Symposium to inform community about local environmental research B y G e o r gi a C o s t a On Wednesday, February 23, the Whatcom Watersheds Information Network (WWIN) will host a free, virtual Whatcom Marine Research Symposium. The event runs from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. and will include multiple scientists and Nooksack and Lummi speakers. The event is to inform the community about experts’ research on current environmental conditions in Whatcom County, such as the invasive European green crabs and intertidal monitoring

in the Cherry Point area. Other topics include effects of targeted acoustic startle technology on foraging harbor seals, the impact of northern anchovies on the Salish Sea food web and natural resource management during climate change. Nooksack Indian Tribe elder and storyteller Tammy Cooper-Woodrich and Rena Priest, Washington state poet laureate and Lummi Nation member, will be keynote speakers at the symposium. “Our identities are in the land and resources,” Cooper-Wo-

odrich said. “Our survival depends on the reclamation of our cultural preservation of the land of the watersheds.” Cooper-Woodrich said networking is the key to survival of the watershed – which also means the survival of tribes. She will be storytelling at the symposium and hopes people understand the underlying importance of keeping tribes at the table. Blaine and Birch Bay residents are encouraged to attend the symposium because they live on the Whatcom County shoreline, said Austin Rose, a Whatcom County

Marine Resource Committee staff member. Community outreach is important because it allows experts to highlight climate and watershed issues to the general public, Rose said. Most of the symposium speakers will be researchers, and stakeholders in research and development. “The land is sacred to our people,” Cooper-Woodrich said. “We want to make sure it is done in a good way.” For event details and registration, visit whatcomwin.org.

Indoor mask decisions to come soon, Inslee says By Grace McCarthy Governor Jay Inslee has announced plans to lift the outdoor mask mandate, and indicates indoor masks may soon be optional as well. “We are having conversations about when and how to safely change indoor mask requirements, and we’ll have more details next week,” Inslee wrote in a statement on Twitter February 9. Although Inslee acknowleged high Covid-19 cases, he justified lifting the mask requirements because cases were declining statewide. According to Washington State Department of Health (DOH) data, cases across Washington are among the highest they’ve been since the start of the pandemic. For example, as of February 8, there were 1,274 cases per

100,000 people in the state. That number was 125 during the first week of December and 322 during the height of Delta variant transmission in late August. “We have projections of a very steep decline, leading to what we hope will be very low numbers by the first week in March,” Inslee said during a February 9 media conference where he first announced the guidance changes. “We believe this wave has gone up like a rocket, and it’s going to come down like a rock.” Starting Friday, February 18, masks will no longer be required at outdoor events of 500 people or more, such as football games and concerts. These changes also mean the Washington National Guard will leave hospitals Thursday, February 17. The National Guard has been assisting at hospitals since

late January, when Inslee requested 100 guard personnel help Covid-19 testing sites and nonclinical hospital duties. Hospitals will also begin nonurgent medical procedures Friday, February 18, which were put on hold in late January. “Omicron clearly has characteristics that will allow us to lift mitigation measures in weeks to come, rather than months,” Inslee said. “Today is not the day to lift all masking requirements. We’re obviously having conversations and an intensive review on what day it will be and when we can do this.” Meanwhile, state superintendent Chris Reykdal said he was preparing to ask Inslee and DOH to return the statewide public school mask mandate to the decision of local public health jurisdictions. He said in a statement he would like to see the change in the

State senator Simon Sefzik (R-Ferndale) introduced a ‘Blessing of the Fleet’ resolution to honor the commercial fishermen who risk their lives every year in Alaska. The resolution, Senate Resolution 8642, passed the Senate February 9. The resolution is named after the Blessing of the Fleet ceremony held in Blaine Harbor every May. Hosted by the Fisherman’s

Memorial Committee, Whatcom County officials give speeches and the U.S. Coast Guard lays a wreath from the historic Plover ferry during the event. “The risks involved with fishing too often take the lives of the brave men and women who choose to work on the sea,” the resolution reads, in part. “The tragedy of losing our friends and neighbors on the high seas im-

Motorcycle accident on Birch Bay Drive sends driver to the hospital A motorcycle-vehicle accident on Birch Bay Drive sent the motorcycle driver to the hospital with severe injuries and closed a main section of the thoroughfare for two hours on February 13. A motorcycle driver traveling at high speeds rear-ended a vehicle while driving in the 7800 block of Birch Bay Drive around 7:30 p.m., North Whatcom Fire and Rescue chief Jason Van der Veen said. First responders transported the motorcycle driver, who sustained severe in-

juries, to St. Joseph PeaceHealth Medical Center in Bellingham. Birch Bay Drive near CJ’s Beach House and Jacobs Landing was closed for about 1.5 hours until reopening around 9 p.m., Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office spokesperson Deb Slater said. The sheriff’s office could not provide additional details on the vehicles and their occupants, as well as whether alcohol or drugs were involved because the investigation is ongoing.

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

Monday, February 21 City Offices Closed – Presidents’ Day

Tuesday, February 22 3:00pm – Civil Service Commission Meeting *CANCELLED*

Thursday, February 24 6:00pm – Planning Commission Meeting *CANCELLED*

Monday, February 28 6:00pm – City Council Meeting Thursday, March 10 9:00am – Park and

coming weeks. “With high immunity rates and our ability to carry out rapid antigen tests with nearly every school district participating in our state’s Covid-19 testing program, the time is now to rebalance the health and educational benefits of masking in our schools,” Reykdal wrote. “Current laws empower local health officials to assess health and safety risks and determine local strategies. Given the varied vaccination rates and adherence to other mitigation strategies across the regions in our state, it is time to return decision-making to local health officials. In some cases, local health officials may require temporary returns to masking or other mitigation strategies if cases spike or if a new variant poses elevated risks.”

Senator Sefzik introduces ‘Blessing of the Fleet’ resolution

CITY OF BLAINE

Cemetery Board Meeting 6:00pm – Planning Commission Meeting

Monday, March 14 6:00pm – City Council Meeting Contact information for staff and Councilmembers can be found on the City’s website. Call (360) 332-8311 or visit our website.

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pacts not only the close community of fishing families, but also our entire state.” Also co-sponsored the bill were state senators Liz Lovelett (D-40), Jeff Wilson (R-19), Bob Hasegawa (D-11), Jim McCune (R-02), Joe Nguyen (D-34), Emily Randall (D-26) and Rebecca Saldaña (D-37).

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The Northern Light • February 17 - 23, 2022

Sports Emotional win over Nooksack Valley takes Blaine boys basketball to bi-district playoff

A T H L E T E OF THE H

H NTH MO

Cael Button

Junior • Boys Wrestling Cael is a 4.0 student, with a 25-3 record with 19 pins this year in wrestling. He is currently ranked 3rd in state. He’s an Academic State Champion and doing Running Start with a focus on engineering. Cael is also a Cadet Senior Airman in the Civil Air Patrol, Bellingham Squadron and wants to be a pilot.

s Blaine’s boys varsity basketball team will move on to the bi-district playoff this weekend with its 58-37 win over Nooksack Valley. Photo by Janell Kortlever

By Ian Haupt Up by 20 points, Blaine boys varsity basketball head coach Brett Farrar subbed off his starters with a minute left in the game. All five of them separately gave him an emotional hug before sitting down. Farrar, who lost his father that day to a long cancer

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battle, turned around a minute later as the final buzzer sounded, securing the Borderites place in the next round of playoffs, to hug his family. Blaine outplayed a young Nooksack Valley team with quick offensive passing and a strong defensive performance. The game finished 58-37. “[The team] gave a phenomenal effort defensively,” Farrar said. “They gave it everything out there, each and every one of them. It was a real team effort.” A moment of silence was held before the game for Farrar’s father, who was a referee in the conference for multiple years. “He loved the game,” Farrar said. “It was a pretty tough loss.” Coming into the game, Nooksack Valley was no pushover opponent. The Borderites narrowly beat the Pioneers 52-49 in regular season play. A couple of

fourth-quarter three-pointers secured the win for them that night. Nooksack finished the regular season with a 5-11 record. The team has only one senior and three starting freshmen. Blaine was 11-5 in regular season action and finished the season with seven straight wins. But on the back of a tough 86-57 loss to Lynden Christian in the district championship last Friday, the Borderites were looking for another path into the playoffs. They also wanted to win it for Farrar. Farrar said he was pleased the team gets to keep playing. Blaine came into the game flying, holding Nooksack to two points by the end of the first quarter. At halftime, the Borderites led 27-18. With a couple stops early at the end of the third (See Sports, page 15)

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s Head coach Brett Farrar signals to his players in Blaine’s 58-37 win over Nooksack Valley Tuesday night. Farrar lost his father the night before the game. His mom, brother, wife and daughters sat near the team bench during the game and a moment of silence was held before the game to remember his father. Photo by Janell Kortlever

February 17 - 23, 2022 • thenorthernlight.com

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s Alex Welch helps Blaine win the regional tournament last weekend taking fifth in his weight class. Photo by Rie Pomeroy

8 boys wrestlers move on to state tournament By Ian Haupt With two firsts, two seconds and four fifth places, Blaine boys wrestling narrowly won the regional tournament last weekend by a half-point. The Borderites scored a total of 187 points while Eatonville had 186.5 and Mount Baker notched 185.5 points. Head coach Tom Hinz said the team was behind going into the medal rounds but with the boys grabbing six pins, they were able to secure the win. “We wrestled pretty good,” Hinz said. “We went in with the idea we were going to win regionals. It was a little closer than we expected.” Blaine will send eight wrestlers to the state tournament this weekend in Tacoma. Cael Button and Victor Gervol took first at 126 and 285 pounds, respectively. Jack Cheatham and Nicolaas Chandran placed second at 152 and 195. Then four boys took fifth in their weight classes; Tim Pomeroy at 113, Nahum Vazquez at 132, Alex Welch

at 160 and Hunter Burg at 182. “Cael and Victor were really dominant,” Hinz said, adding they really helped secure the win. After securing a qualifying spot at state, Button and Pomeroy won academic state championship in their weight classes with 4.0 and 3.99 GPAs. “Feels really good,” Button said. “I was surprised to get that award.” Button said he expected to be in the finals at the regional tournament but didn’t expect to dominate as much as he did, getting three pins. At state, he said he hopes to make it to the finals. “It’s so hard to predict how the state championships will go,” Hinz said. “We are just looking and focused on individual success.” Hinz said the eight wrestlers going have their own paths that could make it a successful tournament and take them into the finals. If the team focuses on their individual duties, he said they have a chance of doing well.

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Blaine sends girls wrestlers to state, most in school history By Ian Haupt The girls varsity wrestling team took seventh in the regional tournament February 12 at Sedro-Woolley High School, and three girls advanced to the state tournament this weekend in Tacoma. Junior Genesis Vazquez and senior Bries Nolasco took second and fourth, respectively, at 110 pounds and sophomore Milania Rodriguez took third at 135 pounds. Junior Rayanne Mutchler took seventh at 235 pounds, just missing the sixth place state alternate spot. The four girls put up enough points to take seventh in the 42-team regional tournament. Head coach Damon Higgins, who was voted sub-regional coach of the year last week, said overall he was very pleased with the girls’ performance this past weekend. “Ray[anne Mutchler] is upset,” he said. “Her goal was to make it to state, but the other girls are happy.” He added this is the most girls wrestlers Blaine has ever sent to

the state tournament. The team has a wide range of experience. Higgins said Vazquez has been wrestling for six years and competed at state her freshman year, while it’s Nolasco’s first year wrestling. Vazquez said Higgins has played a huge role in the team’s success and really supports the team emotionally during competition. “We all have our own demons,” she said. “And he’s been very helpful and supportive by not letting those bring us down.” Whatcom County will be sending 18 wrestlers to the state tournament. Mount Baker and Bellingham United, a combined team of Bellingham’s three high schools, are sending five each. Two wrestlers from both Lynden and Meridian will compete, and one from Ferndale. Vazquez said the girls are looking forward to the feeling of competing at the state championship level. “Feeling the stadium and energy is something we haven’t experience yet this year because of Covid,” she said.

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The Northern Light • February 17 - 23, 2022

New general manager takes reins at Semiahmoo Resort Association By Grace McCarthy The Semiahmoo Resort Association (SRA) board of directors has selected David Franklin to take the reins as its new general manager. Franklin, who brings over 20 years of resort and community management experience, is already looking ahead to what’s on the community’s horizon. Franklin joined SRA February 1. Semiahmoo’s 26 homeowner associations as well as the Semiahmoo Resort, Semiahmoo Golf and Country Club and Semiahmoo marina are located within the SRA. “Over the years, Semiahmoo has become a bigger and much more complicated community,” said Doug Woods, president of the SRA board of directors. “We felt we needed a new set of skills in capacity and experience necessary to lead SRA as we move forward.” Challenges SRA faces as it grows include infrastructure upgrades, maintaining view preservations and recreation easements along Drayton Harbor, Woods said. SRA manages a cohesive sense of community throughout the Semiahmoo neighborhoods and the privately-owned resort areas through its standards for

things such as signage, landscaping and gates. Franklin’s first priority is to create a long-term community plan, similar to a city’s comprehensive plan, that will outline development goals for Semiahmoo and create continuity as board directors change over the years, Woods said. Franklin’s background shows he’s just the right person to take on the challenge. Franklin left his position as general manager of Shelter Bay Community in La Conner, where he worked since 2013, to come to Semiahmoo. He said he made the change to shorten the commute to his home in Whatcom County and spend more time with family. Shelter Bay, located on Swinomish Indian Tribal Community land, has nearly 1,000 homes, a 300-slip marina and golf course. Franklin also oversaw an annual $4 million budget, which is three times SRA’s budget. During his time in La Conner, Franklin said one of his proudest achievements was improving the working relationship between Shelter Bay, the Swinomish Indian Tribal Community and town of La Conner through things such as coming together on a regional wastewater facility.

s Semiahmoo Resort Association’s new general manager David Franklin. “Relationship building was very important and I think the board felt that was something that was important that I would be able to do here,” Franklin said. “They want a more cohesive relationship with the golf course,

the resort, the city of Blaine and Whatcom County.” Before Shelter Bay, Franklin worked as Snowater Resort’s general manager in Deming from 2005 to 2013. There, he oversaw about 35 employees and a $2 mil-

Photo by Grace McCarthy

lion operating budget. At 58 years old, Franklin said he sees Semiahmoo as the end of the road in his career. “A community association manager is a crucible fire,” he said. “I look at this as a last stop.”

WCSO deputies out of hospital after Maple Falls shooting, suspect arrested By Grace McCarthy Two Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office (WCSO) deputies who were shot February 10 while responding to a Maple Falls altercation have been released from the hospital and at home recovering. The suspect was booked into Skagit County Community Justice Center for two counts of at-

tempted first-degree murder and awaits arraignment Friday. WCSO deputies responded to a report of two neighbors shooting at each other from different houses in the 3000 block of Green Valley Drive in Maple Falls, around 4:20 p.m. February 10. Before the call, 60-year-old Joel Berck Young, who was later identified as the man who allegedly shot at

the deputies, had been drinking when his neighbor started burning garbage, according to the Bellingham police department. Young confronted his neighbor about the smoke seeping into his house, to which his neighbor replied using expletives. Young loaded his shotgun with birdshot, smaller pellets used for waterfowl hunting, and fired it toward his

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neighbor before returning home. WCSO deputies arrived and attempted to talk to Young while standing across the street. Young, who appeared intoxicated, waved his 12-gauge shotgun before firing at both deputies’ heads, according to the Bellingham police department. Young hit deputy Jason Thompson in the head immediately, who dropped to the ground, while deputy Ryan Rathburn shielded Thompson, according to the affidavit of probable cause. Thompson retreated to cover after Young shot him. A neighbor fired a handgun at Young to protect the deputies, while residents pulled the deputies into a neighbor’s garage and performed first aid. Young peacefully surrendered around 6 p.m. after the WCSO SWAT team surrounded his home. Washington State Patrol asked drivers to avoid the area as first responders transported both deputies to PeaceHealth St. Joseph Hospital in Bellingham. One of the deputies was later transported to Harborview Medical Center in Seattle to be watched under the care of a specialist, according to WCSO. The Bellingham Herald reported the deputies may lose eyesight and one may lose an eye. The deputies were released from the hospital as of February 14, according to WCSO. Rathburn has been a WCSO officer for nearly 16 years, serving as a field training officer and member of the sheriff’s office’s SWAT team. Thompson has been a WCSO officer for 13 years, serving as the South Lake Whatcom neighborhood deputy and a member of the

WCSO crisis negotiations team. Bellingham Police Department booked the suspect, Joel Berck Young, into Skagit County Community Justice Center at 11:50 p.m. February 10. Young’s bail was set at $5 million and his arraignment is scheduled Friday, February 18. The Law Enforcement Mutual Aid Response Team (LEMART) has taken over the investigation. Signed into law in 2019, LEMART is the county’s independent investigation team made up of detectives, investigators and a non-law enforcement representative in every police jurisdiction. “Everyone at Blaine PD was horrified to hear about the shooting of the two deputies that occurred,” Blaine Police Department sergeant Tim Richardson said in an email to The Northern Light. “When incidents like this occur, it really does bring our law enforcement community together. As such, Blaine PD was more than willing to assist in any way possible.” While WCSO responded to the scene, Blaine officers took over service calls in Birch Bay, Blaine and Custer, Richardson said. Blaine police chief Donnell Tanksley brought food and beverage to staff at the scene’s incident command post. Richardson said the police department wishes the two deputies a speedy recovery. Fundraising accounts for the deputies have already exceeded their $5,000 goals. Rathburn’s GoFundMe is available at bit.ly/3gR3uCE and Thompson’s GoFundMe is available at bit.ly/3rNpjJF.

February 17 - 23, 2022 • thenorthernlight.com

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Q: I made a New Year’s resolution to lose weight this year. Again, by mid-February I have lost no weight and fallen off my “diet.” How do I lose weight in a safe and managed way? A: Many people fail their New Year’s resolutions to lose weight every year and usually after just a couple of months. We all know the definition of crazy: “Doing the same thing over and over again Dr. Ken Stiver MD Medical Director and expect different results!” MEDICAL TEAM: We have a Medical Weight Loss Management Program. This proNurse Practitioner, Physician Assistant, gram is a medically supervised program designed to help individuals Nurses & Master Estheticians & reach their specific weight loss goals. Licensed Massage Therapists. THIS PROTOCOL USES A COMBINATION OF: 7854 Birch Bay Dr. • Birch Bay Naltexone: Enhanced fat burning & weight loss and mental clarity. In the beautiful Sand Castle Resort Seromorelin: Faster recovery after exercise. Helps restore natural sleep cycles. 907 Harris Ave, Suite 301 • Fairhaven Lipo-Trim SL: Assists in food cravings. Aids in immune support. (360) 474-3535 One of the major elements of a successful program is accountability. You will have regular visits with one of our nurses to follow your progress and make adjustments where necessary. Let’s make 2022 the year you really do achieve your New Year’s resolutions! Call for a free consultation. We look forward to your call!

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Pets & Pet Care

The Northern Light • February 17 - 23, 2022

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

Blaine author chronicles local harbor dog in children’s book B y G e o r gi a C o s t a

Combine a 22-year-old oyster farmer, a Blaine High School freshman and a woman who walks the waterfront every day. What do you get? A book about a dog. “I went to the waterfront every day. Seeing Beamer made such a big difference,” said Diana Warner, the author of “Beamer, An Oyster Dog: The Interview.” After losing her late dog, Cactus, Warner’s spirit was invigorated by the dog she met at Blaine Harbor in 2020. Beamer approached Warner with a captivating presence: A purple hoodie and blue doggie goggles. In fact, Warner was so touched by Beamer that she decided to write a book about his adventures in Blaine. Village Books is slated to publish the book this month. It will be sold for $15 at Village Books in Fairhaven, as well as the Drayton Harbor Oyster Company in Blaine. Warner met Beamer’s owner, Ethan King, at the harbor. “Ethan, I want to write a book about Beamer,” she remembered saying to him. eshen upKing, 22, is a Blaine High School (BHS) graduate who works early, booking at Drayton mething like Harbor Oyster Company’s oyster bar and oyster farm. He

rescued Beamer three years ago. Although it didn’t take long for Warner to write the book, she said the process of finding an illustrator and publisher was difficult. In search of an illustrator, Warner called the BHS art director and was referred to the then-14-yearold freshman Marcela Sarantes, who eagerly volunteered to be included in the project. Sarantes illustrated the entire book, sketching images of the oyster bar, Beamer and the waterfront where Warner originally met Beamer. It took Sarantes three months between February and March 2021 to illustrate the book. She and Warner would collaborate on ideas for sketches, and then Sarantes would get to work using Procreate on her iPad. “I have been drawing my whole life but I recently started digital drawing in December 2020,” she said. “I really enjoyed getting to work on my art and working with Diana. She is very sweet.” Warner said she has been a writer her entire life. Now she has a book published about something that changed her life. “Beamer delegates and he’s very independent,” she said, adding he’s friendly with an attitude. “It’s my first time in my life without a dog. Beamer changed my life.”

s Village Books is slated to publish Blaine resident Diana Warner’s book, “Beamer, An Oyster Dog: The Interview,” later this month. The book chronicles the adventures of Beamer, a local dog that helps his owner working at Drayton Harbor Oyster Company. Image courtesy Village Books

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February 17 - 23, 2022 • thenorthernlight.com

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IN THE SUPERIOR COURT OF THE STATE OF WASHINGTON IN AND FOR WHATCOM COUNTY In re the Matter of the Trust of: HAZEL NORMA MARTEN KOENKER, of the ERNEST BENJAMIN KOENKER and HAZEL NORMA MARTEN KOENKER TRUST, dated August 7, 1992, Deceased. No. 22-4-00160-37 NON-PROBATE NOTICE TO CREDITORS. RCW 11.42.030. Judge Lee Grochmal The notice agent named below has elected to give notice to creditors of the abovenamed Decedent. As of the date of the filing of a copy of this notice with the court, the notice agent has no knowledge of any other person acting as notice agent or of the appointment of a personal representative of Decedent’s estate in the state of Washington. According to the records of the court as are available on the date of the filing of this notice with the court, a cause number regarding Decedent has not been issued to any other notice agent and a personal representative of Decedent’s estate has not been appointed. The notice agent believes, based upon reasonable good faith, that he is qualified under RCW 11.42.010 to act as notice agent. Any person having a claim against Decedent must, before the time the claim would be barred by any otherwise applicable statute of limitations, present the claim in the manner as provided in RCW 11.42.070 by serving on or mailing to the notice agent or the notice agent’s attorney at the address stated below a copy of the claim and filing the original of the claim with the court. The claim must be presented within the later of: (1) Thirty (30) days after the notice agent served or mailed the notice to the creditor as provided under RCW 11.42.020(2)(c); or (2) four (4) months after the date of first publication of the notice. If the claim is not presented within this time frame, the claim is forever barred, except as otherwise provided in RCW 11.42.050 and 11.42.060. This bar is effective as to claims against both Decedent’s probate and non-probate assets. Date of First Publication: February 17, 2022 The notice agent declares under penalty of perjury under the laws of the State of Washington on February 8, 2022 at Bellingham, Washington, that the foregoing is true and correct. Notice Agent: GREGORY ERIC KOENKER Attorney for Notice Agent AVERY ELDER LAW, P.S. STEVEN D. AVERY, WSBA #35262 Mailing Address: 801 Samish Way, Ste. 202 Bellingham, WA 98229 Non-Probate Notice to Creditors Avery Elder Law, P.S. 801 Samish Way, Ste. 202 Bellingham, WA 98229 (360) 325-2550 www.averyelderlaw.com

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IN THE SUPERIOR COURT OF THE STATE OF WASHINGTON IN AND FOR WHATCOM COUNTY In re the Estate of: 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

IN THE SUPERIOR COURT OF THE STATE OF WASHINGTON IN AND FOR THE COUNTY OF Whatcom In Re the Estate of Sherry B. Sletvik aka Sherry B. Van Diest, Deceased. NO. 22-4-00066-37. PROBATE NOTICE TO CREDITORS (RCW 11.40.030) JUDGE: David E. 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 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 10, 2022 Personal Representative: Douglas Van Diest 3205 S Pass Road Everson, WA 98247 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. 22-4-00066-37.

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

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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The Northern Light • February 17 - 23, 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 F E A T U R E D L I S T I N G S - B I R C H B AY

5314 Coastal Loop

MLS #1886905 $675,000 Beautiful custom coastal 4-bedroom home in desirable Salish Breeze neighborhood, up hill from Birch Bay State Park, perfect seaside community. Thoughtful flow features tall ceilings, engineered hardwood floors, den, open kitchen to dining, & sizeable primary suite on main floor with heated floors in en-suite. Primary suite opens to covered back deck space to enjoy indoor/outdoor living & beautiful backyard, which borders private nature reserve that is forever protected. Home features surround sound & central vac system. Lovely garden shed in fenced backyard.

Brandi Coplen 360-201-3951

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

7315 Jackson Road

MLS #1887065 $459,000 Cute Cape Cod style just a walk away from State Park & Birch Bay beaches. Fully updated in 2006 with brand new roof in 2021. Modern, open kitchen w/stainless appliances, center island, granite countertops & oak hardwood floors flow into living & dining areas. Living room & Primary bedroom have stone gas fireplaces. Large deck with small, finished bunk house - perfect for Airbnb & entertaining. 2nd detached garage/shed at back of property for storage. Lots of parking on property - RV’s, trailers, etc. Sewer, electric hook-up available at back of property.

Tiffany Braun 360- 594-9484

8756 Waters Edge Way

MLS #1878928 $220,000 Beautiful wooded 5-acre parcel bordering future Bay to Bay trail leading south to Birch Bay, north to City of Blaine, & east to new California Creek estuary park property. 5 min to shopping, schools, Blaine, saltwater marina, & sandy beaches, 4-bedroom Glendon Bio filter Septic System installed. Birch Bay Water district service available. Electricity is in the street. Gravel road into property. The owner, Blaine Birch Bay Parks & Recreation District #2, purchased property & established trail easement for the future Bay to Bay trail.

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

8403 Kickerville Road

MLS #1829414 $1,100,000 Waterfront dream home on 6.2 acres of beautiful grounds. Ideal equestrian address or estate residence w/multiple use opportunities. Completely remodeled w/slab granite surfaces & artisan quality tile work. Fabulous kitchen & Spa like Luxurious Master bath. Vaulted family room w/fireplace. Sunny South facing deck w/pool & ideal for outdoor entertaining. 4+ Big bedrooms. High & dry barn includes tack room, custom saddle racks, 12X12 stalls ea. w/removable walls, mats & H2O. Fully vinyl fenced w/outdoor riding arena. Over 800’ of waterfront on California Creek.

Lisa Kent 360-594-8034

14th Street

MLS #1864373 $129,000 Investor Alert! Commercially zoned lot within Blaine city limits and close to the US/Canadian border. Lot is 30,056 +/- square feet and zoned for a mix of commercial, office and light industrial uses. Located next to the truck border crossing and close to schools, gas stations and grocery stores. Buyers to do their due diligence and verify all information prior to purchase.

Amy Bremer 360-961-0620

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

5414 Quail Run

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 peace-quiet-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 that almost floats on the second floor. Wraparound deck--irreplaceable, mature landscaping with pond create an idyllic setting. A must see for the most discerning buyer.

Kathy Stauffer 360-815-4718

8613 Blue Grouse Way

MLS #1884629 $ 598,000 Take the Tour: SemiahmooRetreat.com - Charming bungalow nestled on lush 1/3-acre homesite. Open plan with vaulted ceilings, generous windows, & large island kitchen. Classic craftsman styling upgraded with hardwood & tile flooring throughout (no carpet/vinyl). Features include stainless steel appliances, granite counters, 4 ceiling fans, wood blinds, radiant-heated bathroom floors, jetted tub, walk-in closet, central vac, sprinkler system & a spacious covered patio. Well maintained & move-in ready. Enjoy Semiahmoo’s beautiful, gated neighborhoods, gracious lifestyle & first-rate amenities - championship golf, full-service marina, beachfront hotel with spa/ athletic club, fine dining, and miles of trails & beaches to explore.

Brenda Mills 360-319-0072

Woodberry at Semiahmoo MLS #1875933. Woodberry 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 2454-3029sf +/- and 1 single level 2036 sf 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, 200 room Inn at Semiahmoo with Heath Club and Spa. Enjoy walking, golf, boating, skiing, health Club, kayaking, biking & so much more. All plans have the master suite on primary level. Brian Southwick 360-815-6638 Jim Kaemingk 360-224-5465

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. The main kitchen features a walk-in pantry, commercial refrigerator, double oven, commercial dishwasher, huge island, rolling library ladder, & your own built in coffee machine. Awesome extras include a movie theater, barber shop, sewing room, telephone booth, & more.

Hunter Crim 360-927-2217

www.windermere.com Legal IN THE SUPERIOR COURT OF THE STATE OF WASHINGTON IN AND FOR WHATCOM COUNTY In re the Estate of: NEIL PETER ANDERSON, Deceased. No. 224-00109-37. NOTICE TO CREDITORS. Judge Evan Jones 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 3, 2022 with Clerk of Court: Date of First Publication: February 10, 2022 Name of Administrator: ERIK PETER ANDERSON 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 3, 2022 AVERY ELDER LAW, P.S. STEVEN D. AVERY, WSBA #35262 Attorney for Administrator ERIK PETER ANDERSON www.averyelderlaw.com

IN THE SUPERIOR COURT OF THE STATE OF WASHINGTON IN AND FOR THE COUNTY OF Whatcom In Re the Estate of William Callaghan, Deceased. NO. 22-4-00110-37. PROBATE NOTICE TO CREDITORS (RCW 11.40.030) JUDGE: Lee Grochmal. 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 17, 2022 Personal Representative: Emily Callaghan 1908 36th Street Bellingham, WA 98229 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 00110 37

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.

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

Rentals - Rooms FURNISHED ROOMS in historic home, incl. amenities, NS, pet friendly starts at $600/ mo. + deposit, references required. 360-332-3449.

If experience is important, please call Hugh. Over 32 successful years with buyers and sellers. Call 360-371-5800, email hugh@callhugh.com, or text 360-739-5234

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

www.CallHugh.com Rentals - Commercial

NELSON BUILDING 925 Ludwick Ave., Blaine

LEASE SPACES FOR:

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

Email or Call Don Nelson For Availability & Rates

Call: 360-305-0286 Email nelsbldg@msn.com

Newly Available!

380 s.f.

2nd floor office space in The Northern Light Cannery-style building on Blaine Harbor. Views of marina. Fiber optic internet. Utilities included. For leasing info, contact Pat Grubb at 360/332-1777 or email pgrubb@mac.com

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February 17 - 23, 2022 • thenorthernlight.com

Road Rules: Responding to a polite driver giving you the right-of-way By Doug Dahl Question: What am I supposed to do when the person who has the right-of-way is “polite” and tells me to go? If something goes wrong won’t I be responsible? I’d rather they just go. Answer: A few years back a PEMCO insurance commercial captured what you and many other folks have felt about the too-polite driver. You might remember it; two deferential drivers at an intersection alternating between gesturing to each other to go and inching forward after accepting the other driver’s offer. To really drive home the point, it ends with a jogger getting to the crosswalk, where they all have a three-way polite-off. The title of the ad: “4-way stop you go, no you go, no you go guy.” Maybe you’ve been there. Maybe that’s you. Yes, of course it’s good to be polite. But can it be illegal? To answer that we need to understand right-of-way. To keep things simple, let’s consider a four-way stop. The law states that when two drivers approach an intersection at approximately the same time, the driver of the vehicle on the left shall yield right-of-way to the vehicle on the right.

Curiously, neither the Revised Code of Washington nor the Washington Driver Guide include a definition for yield. Despite not finding a definition in two key sources, plenty of traffic attorneys have written about yielding, and they consistently define it along the lines of allowing other road users to proceed before you. Let’s say you approach the stop line after the person on your right, but they wave at you to go. If you accept their offer, have you violated the law by failing to yield? Let’s test how you’d answer that by taking it to the extreme. Imagine that the other driver is not only waving for you to go, but standing in front of their car with the hood up, steam pouring out. Are you going to wait until they get running again before you go? I’d argue that when a driver waves for you to go, they’ve yielded back to you. However, getting the wave is not the same as receiving a promise that the coast is clear. That driver might be fine with you going next, but you still have the responsibility to make sure you’re not obligated to yield to another road user. Yes, it can get a bit confusing. Many of our traffic laws are for inherently dangerous behavior; things like impaired, reckless

O B I T U A RY

or distracted driving have consequences based on the action. Other traffic laws are for keeping traffic organized and safe. We agree to drive on the right side of the road, not because it’s safer than driving on the left side, but because we all need to agree on one side to make driving work. Same with right-of-way. We used a four-way stop as an example but right-of-way extends to many situations, and I can think of at least one scenario where you hope that the other driver gives it up for you: Lane changes. The law puts the primary responsibility for safety on the driver changing lanes. One of the greatest feelings in heavy traffic is when you need to make a lane change, so you signal, and a car in the lane you want to get into slows down and waves for you to get in. It’s one of those moments when you feel like it’s safe to believe that there’s still hope for humanity. Politeness is not a crime, but if you’re inclined to wave other road users on, just make sure your kindness doesn’t also create confusion. Doug Dahl is a manager with the Washington Traffic Safety Commission, Region 11 and publishes TheWiseDrive.com.

Covid-19 in Whatcom County, by school district boundaries:

Bellingham Vaccination: 83% Case rate: 527 New cases: 550

Brian Keith Baldwin

July 28, 1964 – February 4, 2022 Brian Keith Baldwin passed away unexpectedly in his sleep on Friday, February 4, 2022. He was 57. Brian was living in Bellingham at the time of his passing, and was a lifelong resident of Whatcom County. Blaine was considered home. Brian was the firstborn child of the family. He was born in Oakland, CA on Tuesday, July 28, 1964 after his father’s service there in the Marine Corps. The family returned to Blaine while he was still a small child. He was preceeded in death by his father John. He leaves behind his mother Merry; sister Brenda; brothers Michael and Garth; numerous nieces and nephews; and a large extended family. He had a special place in the life of his nephew Jefferson (Garth and wife Kelsey’s son), having spent the first few years of the boy’s life living with him. His cousin Brylee Rogers-Pai was his close friend, confidant, and personal hairdresser. As any life, lived in their own space, there are people who are unknown to this writer; but do not lack importance, who will miss him and who had a special place in his life. As anyone who knew him would know, his life revolved around cars. His calling in life came early in professional autobody restoration. Brian was detail oriented and a perfectionist; in all honesty, to a fault. He could never get a restoration job quite good enough for his own standards. He produced many beautiful vehicles. And he never met an El Camino he didn’t see as a potential classic restoration. He was a kind and gentle soul who will be missed for his love and honest affection for those he loved. A private family service and interment at Hillsdale Cemetery in Blaine is planned.

BUSINESS & PROFESSIONAL

Recent two-week case rates, cumulative counts and vaccinations Blaine Lynden Nooksack Valley Vaccination: 75% Vaccination: 58% Vaccination: 55% Case rate: 758 Case rate: 1,046 Case rate: 897 New cases: 132 New cases: 212 New cases: 97 Ferndale Meridian Vaccination: 71% Vaccination: 67% Case rate: 696 Case rate: 445 New cases: 235 New cases: 43