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

March 3 - 9, 2022

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IN THIS

ISSUE

Where to get an antigen test for travel, page 3

City council brainstorms future of Blaine police station

BHS sports on the road to state, page 7

Masks mandate now lifted March 12, page 8

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

The Northern Light awarded business of the year

By Grace McCarthy

(See Station, page 2)

s Blaine Chamber of Commerce awarded The Northern Light as Business of the Year during its 2022 annual general meeting at Loomis Trail Golf Course on February 24. From l.; Gary Lee, advertising sales representative; Ian Haupt, reporter; Louise Mugar, co-publisher and advertising director; Pat Grubb, publisher and managing editor; Grace McCarthy, editor; Ruth Lauman, creative services; and Molly Ernst, advertising sales representative. Not photographed are Doug De Visser, creative services; Jeanie Luna, office manager; and Aly McGee, writer. Read more on page 4. Photo by Kathy Sitker

Expect hike in city’s utility rates this month By Grace McCarthy City of Blaine residents operating on a tight budget may want to be more careful taking long showers this month. Starting in March, city utilities will increase 17.5 percent for water usage. Rates will also increase 5 percent for sewer and 3.5 percent for both electric and stormwater. This means about a $12 increase, from $215 to $227, for a typical household’s total utilities each month, city finance director Daniel Heverling said. Apart from water, the other utilities are more in line with typical increases, which is about 3 percent, he said. The increased water fees are needed to help the city catch up on years of not increasing water utility rates to keep up with inflation. From 2011 to 2021, the city was

recommended to increase its water utility rate about 5.8 percent annually to keep up with water capital fixes and about a 2.5 percent annual inflation rate, which would have meant 3 to 5 percent increases each year, Heverling said. Instead, Blaine City Council didn’t start adopting increases until 2017, which only amounted to 10.7 percent from 2017 to 2020. And then didn’t approve a rate increase for 2021. “Now the problem has snowballed,” Heverling said. “It compounds because it was adopted on these smaller amounts.” The city’s consultant, FCS Group, recommended a 17.5 percent water utility increase through 2025, he said, and other utilities would likely need to be increased as well but in smaller amounts such as 2.5 percent for sewer. Council raised the rates for other utilities in the past decade, like sewer, but ad-

U.S. Supreme Court hears Bob Boule case By Ian Haupt The U.S. Supreme Court heard opening arguments March 2 in Smuggler’s Inn owner Bob Boule’s case against a U.S. Border Patrol agent who allegedly assaulted Boule when questioning him about a person who was staying at the inn. The case could expand the court’s Bivens precedent to claims filed against border patrol agents under the Fourth and First amendments. The Bivens doctrine

shields federal agents from legal liability when the actions in question occur during their work. On March 2, each side of Egbert v. Boule gave their opening arguments to the court. The court will be back in session Monday, March 21. Boule filed a lawsuit against border patrol agent Erik Egbert for harassment after the agent suspected Boule of smuggling a Turkish immigrant through the U.S./Canada border in 2014. After Boule reported Egbert to his superiors fol-

lowing the incident, the agent reported Boule to the IRS and other government agencies. Boule argues such actions were in retaliation against him. The lawsuit claims Egbert was in violation of the First and Fourth amendments, when he used excessive force while confronting Boule. Boule pleaded guilty in B.C. Superior Court in August 2021 to helping people cross into Canada from his bed-and(See Boule, page 3)

opted a higher increase than recommended from 2011 to 2021. Heverling said not increasing the fees wouldn’t mean the city’s utility infrastructure would immediately fall apart without the increases, but residents could start seeing the sewer bubbling and more water pipes needing to be fixed. Utility fees are segregated, meaning the water bill will only pay for water utility maintenance and the sewer bill will only pay for sewer maintenance. Utility bills pay for utility maintenance across the city, including parts of east Blaine infrastructure. The sewer fee goes toward paying off the remaining $17 million in bonds and loans for the Lighthouse Point Water Reclamation facility on Marine Drive, expected to be paid off by the (See Utilities, page 3)

INSIDE

Blaine City Council and staff brainstormed during its February 28 workstudy session what they would like to see for the future of the Blaine police station, bringing up ideas such as the station being relocated to east Blaine and being housed in the same building as the court. Right now, the Blaine police station is housed in a retrofitted 1960s building at the corner of H and 3rd streets. Its evidence storage was previously housed in the old city hall, adjacent to the station, but was moved to temperature-controlled shipping containers behind the station last summer as plans to demolish city hall progressed. The previous city council had asked the city to give one-third of the old city hall property for the police station to expand, while retaining the other two-thirds for potential future use of the city. But with three new city council members who started on the seven-person council in January, city manager Michael Jones decided to give council the option to review plans for the future police station during its February 28 work-study session. The session ended with council asking city staff to look into potential options for the Blaine police station. The city will still demolish the old city hall, regardless of any plans for the Blaine police station. Jones said in a follow-up interview that the city’s large project volume and being short staffed in public works delayed the demolishment, planned for last summer, but it will likely be torn down this summer. Jones said the city could build a new police station, but council would have to decide how much of taxpayers’ money it would want to spend. He also said it was up to city council if they wanted to create a 10-year plan for the station, or create a station that would be used past the city’s 20-year planning period. One option discussed included creating

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The Northern Light • March 3 - 9, 2022

BHS band places at music competition Station ... From page 1

s Blaine High School band members placed at the San Juan Music Educators Association Regional Senior Solo and Ensemble Festival. Junior Byanca Holguin won first place for flute solo and senior Stephanie Boczek took second place for alto saxophone solo. Holguin will perform at the Washington State Solo Contest in April at Central Washington University. From l.; Sabrina Boczek, trumpet; Maddy Reiss, flute; Byanca Holguin, flute; London Fletcher, euphonium; Stephanie Boczek, alto saxophone; and Bob Gray, band teacher.

Photo by Maddy Ernst

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a two-story building in the old city hall site, which would be larger than the current station, and potentially selling the current police station. Blaine police chief Donnell Tanskley told councilmembers police stations need to meet certain codes and professional standards. Council also considered moving the police station to east Blaine, where the majority of the city’s population is expected to grow in the future. Locations included near the Cost Cutter plaza, on Odell Road and the city’s park next to the U.S. Customs Border and Protection facility, although Jones said he would need to confirm the city could use the park that was gifted to the city. Tanksley told council moving the station near the Cost Cutter plaza or by the Peace Portal Drive and Bell Road intersections would reduce response times to Semiahmoo. “We don’t want to piecemeal the police station in any way,” said councilmember Mike Hill, who spoke eagerly during the study session. “We’re going to be a first-class city.” Hill questioned if the city would be open to having a private company create a large, $100 million recreation facility at the old city hall site and have the city rent space within it for the police station. Jones didn’t nix the idea, but said a contract would have to be carefully looked over to work in the city’s

favor. Hill also asked about putting a police station behind the city’s public works department on Yew Avenue, but Jones said that area contains wetlands and a city stormwater pond. Councilmember Kerena Higgins said she was interested in seeing the police station move east, so it wouldn’t compete with commercial business for space and could have room to grow. Councilmember Richard May said he saw the pros and cons for both options, but liked the idea of having all city services close together downtown. He was also hesitant about the cost for some of the police station options because of the city’s tight finances. “I really don’t think we have the money for a lot of land swapping,” May said. “I want us to keep in mind that what’s ideal and doable don’t always intersect.” Jones suggested council could also look at housing the police station and city court in the same building, which is often done in other cities and has previously been requested by the city’s judge and administrative staff. Councilmember Rhyan Lopez requested staff bring to council possible new building sites with information on whether the site is ready to build on, potential building square footage and stories. Jones agreed, and said there won’t be many options because there’s not much land for sale. Jones said after the meeting he expected it would be at least two to three months until city staff could prepare a report for council.

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International Peace Arch Association (IPAA) is looking for artists to be featured in its 25th annual outdoor sculpture exhibit. Artists need to submit their application materials by Friday, March 11. IPAA will host the self-guided art exhibit May 1 through October 1 at Peace Arch State Park. A panel of U.S. and Canadian art experts, park management and

IPAA association members will select the art based on its artistic impression, quality, durability, aesthetics and community appropriateness, according to IPAA. Submission guidelines are available at peacearchpark.org. For more information, contact Christina Winkler, IPPA founder and exhibit coordinator, by emailing info@peacearchpark.org or calling 360/332-7165.

March 3 - 9, 2022 • thenorthernlight.com

Antigen test locations in Birch Bay and county for Canadian travel Aid website says results typically take two to five days, which could miss Canada’s 72-hour mark for receiving PCR test results. Sameday appointments were available at the pharmacy as of late February. Although not ideal for travelers wanting to stay within the Blaine and Birch Bay areas, antigen tests are available elsewhere in Whatcom County. In Bellingham, ARCpoint Labs will test anyone wanting an antigen test at 4220 Meridian Street, suite 101A. The test is free for people with a U.S. social security number. The lab prefers people call-in at 360/922-0275 or schedule online at arcpointlabs.com/ bellingham. Ferndale Pharmacy offers $60 drive-through antigen tests at 2057 Alder Street. The pharmacy does not take insurance, and appointments can be scheduled at ferndalepharmacy.com/ covid-testing. Test results should

take 30 minutes. Nooksack Valley Drug has $60 antigen tests available for travel at its pharmacy, 208 E Main Street in Everson. Testing must be scheduled online at nooksackvalleydrug.com. The pharmacy had same-day appointments as of February 28. Free tests are available to those with symptoms or who have been exposed. Sumas Drug has $60 antigen tests that can be used for cross-border travel, at 1143 Cherry Street. Appointments are required at sumasdrug.com/ covid-services. Insurance is not accepted for travel. The Covid-19 testing site at Bellingham International Airport will only provide PCR tests. Northwest Labs, the site’s testing provider, is not planning on adding an antigen test, Whatcom County Health Department spokesperson Scarlet Tang wrote in an email to The Northern Light.

Boule ...

Utilities ...

breakfast. He was sentenced to 30 days in jail, which was considered time served, and 30 months of probation. Smuggler’s Inn is only steps away from the U.S./Canada border and 0 Avenue. The bed and breakfast has allegedly been used for illegal border crossings and drug trafficking. According to the court petition, Egbert had previously gone to the inn to apprehend people illegally crossing the border, and repeatedly stopped at the inn on his patrols. The petition also says Boule had served as a paid government informant whose information prompted multiple arrests of his guests but, more recently, been suspected of human trafficking. Under the Bivens precedent, an individual has a cause of action against federal law enforcement officers, in this case, for violating their freedom from unreasonable search and seizure. The court has yet to extend the precedent to the First Amendment and to border patrol agents. If the U.S. Supreme Court rules in favor of Boule on both claims, it would expand the breadth of the precedent’s applicability. Greg Boos of Bellingham-based Cascadia Cross-Border Law said it was the idea of Boule’s original counsel, which included Scott Railton, Breean Beggs and Boos, to use Bivens. “[The Court] have never found Bivens to apply to the First Amendment,” Boos said. “So if they do find it applies, this would be the first time ever.” After the initial hearings, Boos said Boule’s case stood on firm ground, as many U.S. Supreme Court judges sounded sympathetic to Boule’s position. “But it’s not over ‘til it’s over.” A decision is expected by mid-June, Boos said.

end of 2050, Heverling said. The increases were built into the city’s 2022 budget last November and then council unanimously voted to update the city’s united fee schedule, in Resolution 1872-21, in December. “There have been councils that have kicked this can down the road and this is why we have to do this now,” councilmember Eric Davidson said in December. “I applaud everyone here for saying, ‘We don’t have a choice. We have to do this.’” Davidson encouraged future councils to keep up with inflation, saying the city’s $7 million sewer budget could become $21 million

as the city grows in the next 20 years. Utility bills are mailed on the last business day of each month and due by the 15th of the following month, according to the city of Blaine website. Heverling said customers who are concerned about being able to afford the utility increases, which would amount to about $144 annually for an average household, can seek assistance at the Community Assistance Program, 360/392-8484, and Opportunity Council, 360/734-5121. “We as a city council haven’t kept up with fees for the upkeep of the city infrastructure and we are paying a price,” councilmember Garth Baldwin said in December. “It’s a bitter pill to swallow.”

By Grace McCarthy A lack of pharmacies and healthcare facilities in the Blaine and Birch Bay area offering antigen tests could become an inconvenience to cross-border travelers hoping to take advantage of Canada’s new rule changes. However, at least one clinic in Birch Bay is offering antigen tests for $49. The Canadian government started accepting proof of negative antigen tests from fully vaccinated travelers entering the country February 28. Tests must be administered by a healthcare clinic, laboratory or telehealth within 24 hours of travel. Athome tests are not accepted. Canadian officials had cited declining Covid-19 transmission rates after the omicron variant peaked earlier this winter as reason for allowing another Covid-19 test option. They also have the option to show proof of a negative PCR test, as long as it’s

taken within 72 hours of travel. Travelers must still use the ArriveCAN app to enter Canada. M.D. Spa and Wellness Center is offering $49 antigen tests for cross-border travelers in the Sandcastle Resort at 7854 Birch Bay Drive. The medical director and nurses will administer the test with results available within 15 minutes, said Russell Dawe, president and director of business development. People should call M.D. Spa and Wellness Center at 360/4743535 to book an appointment. Typically, a one-day notice has been sufficient for scheduling a test, Dawe said, adding the center could test four people every hour. The center is well-stocked with thousands of rapid tests and meets all of the requirements for crossing the border, Dawe said. The Birch Bay center has been offering PCR tests for cross-border travel since early in the pandemic.

The spa will offer free antigen tests to cross-border travelers using its cosmetic and medical services, which include Botox, massages and laser treatment, Dawe said. Birch Bay Family Medicine, at 8097 Harborview Road, does not have the supplies to offer antigen tests, Family Care Network chief operating officer Brian Ecker wrote in an email to The Northern Light. The Birch Bay clinic submitted a large order of antigen tests through the National Association of Rural Health Clinics, but has yet to hear back, Ecker said. If the Birch Bay clinic receives antigen tests, they will be free and results should be given within 15 minutes of being administered, Ecker said. No antigen tests are currently offered at the RiteAid pharmacy in Blaine. The RiteAid at 1195 Boblett Street only offers drivethrough PCR tests, and the Rite-

From page 1

s Bob Boule, owner of the Smuggler’s Inn at the U.S./Canada border. File photo

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The Northern Light • March 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

Local newspapers

s Pat Grubb, The Northern Light publisher and managing editor, and Louise Mugar, co-publisher and advertising director, accept the Blaine Chamber of Commerce’s Business of the Year award at the chamber’s annual general meeting February 24. Photo by Ian Haupt

Letters

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 Melissa Santos / Crosscut.com The Northern Light 225 Marine Drive, Suite 200, Blaine, WA 98230 Tel: 360/332-1777 Vol XXVII, No 37 Circulation: 10,500 copies

Circulation Independently verified by:

The Editor: It is Sunday night and I am watching CBS 60 minutes. The closing piece was about local newspapers. For a long-time I have enjoyed my local paper, wherever I lived. In a small county on Lake Champlain in Vermont, I was given a space to tell what was going on in Alburg, who passed away, who was born, where the evening games were and such. But tonight I was given what many local newspapers were up against, and a wakeup of their importance. The big papers in Seattle and Bellingham have lots of writers and massive Washington state and Washington, D.C., news we need to know, but we need to know about our town, the schools, the parks, the people who run them and what they do. The special events, the neighbors who passed away, the weather, the tides, activities of restaurants, and lists of how hard our police work. Without this paper we are isolated from the world we see each day. I thank the newsmen and women who collect and photograph the important things we need to know each week. Bette Bach Fineman Blaine

The Editor: I have been following the saga of the planned Birch Bay Library over the last couple of years with mixed emotions as I like the idea of a community coming together and throwing their support behind something, especially when there is no formal “downtown” in Birch Bay, but I have wondered if a traditional library is the best project. And then I saw the comments from Linda Cain in last week’s edition and want to echo them as I feel that she reflects many of us in Birch Bay: “The extravagant plans for the library … If they wanted a community center, then that should have been on the ballot,” as well as it not being within walking distance of many residents and that we should not vote on this again. We need to follow the will of the voters and move on from building a library, especially during this challenging time coming out of a pandemic, after the recent flooding and when many have lost their jobs at Intalco-Alcoa as well as at the small businesses that have closed over the last two years in the county. Raising people’s taxes is not the right thing to do at this time nor is spending more money on another election nor the $6.5 million (especially the $1.1 million in design and admin fees) to build something that is dividing

voters and that residents keep saying is not needed, at least not in this form and at this time. We need to respect the will of voters and think more globally of what Birch Bay needs at this time and into the future. Dann Mead Smith Birch Bay The Editor: A good night’s sleep is incredibly important to our health. Most of the time during midnight train crossings the engineer must activate the horn for safety per federal law. Horns are old technology and I am sure there are new alternative safety measures like motion detector alarms or cameras to notify train engineers if something or someone is at the rail. Train engineers should pass crossings with very low speed and maybe blink lights to make sure it is clear to pass the road. During the day I have no objection to the use of train horns but from 10 p.m. till 6 a.m. no horn makes for a better night’s sleep. I read online (See Letters, next page) Please send letters to letters@thenorthernlight.com no later than noon on Monday.

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

Next issue: March 10 Ads due: March 4

A letter below details a reader’s reaction to a recent 60 Minutes segment regarding the perilous state of newspapers in America. The concerns are real: Nearly one in four newspapers have closed in the last 15 years, 2,100 of them weeklies like The Northern Light. The pandemic has only hastened this dismaying trend. On the occasion of being awarded the Blaine Chamber of Commerce’s Business of the Year award, it seems timely to point out why local papers are so important to communities. Weeklies cover news that metro papers can’t or don’t. City council, fire, school and water districts and others all make decisions that affect locals in many ways. Residents need to know what’s going on and weeklies tell them. It is estimated governments in communities without local papers have costs 8 percent higher than those without one. Newspapers sustain communities. Readers turn to the paper not just for news but to find out what events are coming up, what local students are up to, what new business is starting up and so much more. Local newspapers benefit local businesses and encourage residents to buy local and keep the economy humming. It was an honor for the hard work of our staff to be recognized and we thank the chamber on behalf of them. Pat Grubb and Louise Mugar

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.

March 3 - 9, 2022 • thenorthernlight.com

Event organizers looking for artists for chamber’s first art studio tour this spring and summer B y G e o r gi a C o s t a Artists will have the opportunity to showcase their art in Blaine and Birch Bay during the Blaine Chamber of Commerce’s first art studio tour. The tour will be spread across three days on April 30, May 28 and June 25. “The idea is to bring art back to Blaine,” said Kay Dee Powell, participating artist and studio tour founder. Powell submitted the proposal to the chamber in hopes of bringing people into the Blaine area to eat, buy, explore and populate the area with creativity. Now, Powell and the chamber are working together to put on the event. Powell said it is not necessary for participants to live in Blaine, and that they will put on the studio tours in Blaine, Semiahmoo and Birch Bay. The public will be able to view art at the artists’ homes, as well as the Blaine Community Center Pavilion, Blaine Welcome Center, Peace Arch Cafe, Beach Cat Brewing and Se-

miahmoo Resort and Spa. Artists must register by Monday, April 4. A $75 application fee covers all three showings. Artists can also join the chamber as a Level 2 member for $50, instead of paying the $75 application fee. In the application, artists should send three JPEG images of example art that is appropriate for families. At least 12 artists have registered for the studio tour, ranging from jewelers, oil painters and sculptors. “This is a really fun way for people to show their art,” Powell said. “They have the opportunity to do all three or any tours, gain experience and get to meet lots of new people.” There will be an exclusive “meet the artists” gala the night before the first tour, Powell said. It’s a semi-fancy cheese-and-wine event that will give participants a chance to introduce themselves to attendees. Both the art studio tour and gala are open to the public.

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

Thursday, March 10 9:00am – Park and Cemetery Board Meeting

10:00am – Public Works Advisory Board Meeting 6:00pm – Planning Commission Meeting

Monday, March 14 6:00pm – City Council Meeting Tuesday, March 22 3:00pm – Civil Service Commission Meeting

s Kay Dee Powell’s art. Powell will be one of the artists featured in Blaine Chamber of Commerce’s first-ever art studio tour this spring and summer. Photos courtesy Blaine by the Sea To register, go to blainebythesea.com/arttour. People with questions should contact Shei-

la Wood at info@blainechamber.com, or Kay Dee Powell at kaydeepowell@yahoo.com.

Thursday, March 24 6:00pm – Planning Commission Meeting

Monday, March 28 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.

www.cityofblaine.com

Winter coats labeled ‘combustible’ cause unfounded bomb threat in east Blaine By Ian Haupt Blaine and Bellingham police officers responded to a suspicious package and possible bomb threat last week that turned out to be “a goodwill gesture” of winter coats, according to the case report. On February 24, around 6 p.m., a Blaine Police Department officer responded to a suspicious package at a residence on Vista Terrace Drive. The officer initially inspected the package, which was wrapped in several red diamond-shaped stickers labeled “combustible” and had a green

Letters ... From previous page

the city of White Rock, B.C., has reached an agreement with BNSF to implement a quiet zone there. I also contacted BNSF and basically they say if community leaders like the mayor or city council request from BNSF, they will apply for a quiet zone for the city of Blaine. I am sure the majority of Blaine residents are against this horn at midnight and if their voices are heard, then hopefully this nice coastal border town would be quiet at night and more peaceful. Mike Ersh Blaine The Editor: The litter and garbage has definitely gotten beyond just an occasional drink cup along I-5 between the Canadian border and Bellingham. We realize this is an interstate highway, but you surely don’t condone this mess and “kick the can down the road” as “not my job.” Please do something we can all see and appreciate. Canadians are finally able to enter the U.S. again

Christmas bow on top, according to the report. The homeowners had not been expecting any package, involved in any disputes or had any recent issues with neighbors, the officer determined. Bellingham Police Department’s Hazardous Devices Unit (HDU) was contacted to investigate the package. Blaine lieutenant Michael Munden and chief Donnell Tanksley were also notified. Blaine officers requested nearby homeowners to leave for several hours and then blocked Vista Terrace Drive until HDU arrived. and are encountering a garbage dump along the highway. Surely there are resources to get this taken care of rather than condoning and looking away from this mess. Darlene Hermsen Semiahmoo The Editor: I am reaching out to lady golfers to inform them of the Loomis Trail Women’s Golf League at the Loomis Trail Golf Course in Blaine. The league runs April through September every Thursday starting at 10 a.m. on April 7. We are a social league and offer friendly competitive games for those wishing to participate. We welcome all ladies to join our “free” league no matter what your golfing experience may be. In partnership with Loomis Trail Golf’s professional teaching staff, we provide monthly mini-clinics where beginners and low handicap players can advance and fine-tune their skills. If interested, join us March 31 at 9:30 a.m., at the Loomis Trail Golf Course to welcome new players and preview events planned for the 2022 season. Please review

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Upon arrival, HDU officers determined the package to be winter coats and that it did not contain any hazardous material. A delivery sticker hidden behind one of the large “combustible” stickers had the recipient’s name and address. The report said it was determined that winter coats were sent as a goodwill gesture to the homeowners. Why the coats were packed in such a way is unknown. A Blaine officer will attempt to follow up, according to the report. The empty package was collected and entered into evidence.

Before you browse the internet, browse your library! You’ll find answers and inspiration within our broad collection of free materials – online and on our shelves. That’s the power of sharing. For more information on how the library can help, visit www.wcls.org/power/ or drop by and ask us!

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golfloomis.com for directions to the golf course and call the Loomis Trail Golf Pro Shop at 360/3321725 on how to contact me for additional information on what the league has to offer. Karen Szol Semiahmoo

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The Northern Light • March 3 - 9, 2022

NWFR and fire district 4 continues talks on regional fire authority By Grace McCarthy North Whatcom Fire and Rescue (NWFR) officials are working to resolve financial issues the district is facing. As a result, they’re considering restarting formal conversations with Whatcom County Fire District 4 to create a regional fire authority (RFA). NWFR commissioner Bruce Ansell said during the February board of fire commissioners meeting that he met with district 4 fire commissioner Steven Cooley to discuss creating a regional fire authority with the two districts. “They’re committed to reengaging in discussions for future service knowing that financially they will not be capable of providing the existing level of service after the end of this year unless there is an increase in their levy or change in their contractual agreement,” said Ansell, referring to the nearly decade-long interlocal agreement that allows fire district 4 to receive NWFR services.

NWFR, also known as fire district 21, and fire district 4 commissioners pursued a voter-approved regional fire authority last year that would have combined districts. But negotiations ended last spring because of differences among the districts, and both districts decided to reevaluate plans after the November 2021 election where both districts had commissioner seats up for a vote. Facing tight financial straits, both districts sought levy increases in the August primary and November general election – voters rejected the measures both times. NWFR and fire district 4 officials plan to meet informally and bring information back to the boards for direction. Each district will need three commissioners if both parties agree to enter formal regional fire authority discussions, which could soon be a problem for fire district 4, with a vacant seat. “Commissioner Cooley knows they need to fill that position if they truly want to engage in RFA discussions,” Ansell said.

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NWFR and fire district 4 chief Jason Van der Veen later said he doubted a regional fire authority would be on ballots this year. The districts are also considering merging, he said, which would mean district 4 and its commissioners dissolving into NWFR. District 4 residents would eventually be able to vote and run for NWFR commissioner seats in elections, Van der Veen said. A regional fire authority would mean both districts combining their governance to create an entirely new district. Van der Veen said he’s working on financial planning for both districts, which includes finding a minimum levy rate that voters would accept to allow the fire districts to at least pay its bills. NWFR’s proposed levy in 2021 would have increased its current rate by 30 cents, from $1.15 to $1.45 per $1,000 of assessed value. In a follow-up phone call, Van der Veen said it likely wouldn’t be until early 2023 until another levy request is sought. It’s too soon to give a levy estimate but it would be less than the proposed levy increase last year, he said.

The regional fire authority discussion followed NWFR’s decision earlier in the meeting to sell its Wiser Lake station as surplus. Commissioners cited the district’s fraught financial situation as reason for selling the property and showed concern that no members of the public showed interest in the sale, or spoke during the public hearing. Van der Veen later said the Wiser Lake station could bring in about $750,000 for the district, which would be used to fund two fire tenders that will likely service station 69 in Laurel and station 68 on Birch Bay-Lynden and Enterprise roads. Although station 62 in Semiahmoo has sat vacant for years, Van der Veen said the district would not consider selling the property because of Semiahmoo’s growing population. “We need to staff that station with at least an ambulance and an engine in the near future, more like today,” he said. NWFR is also dealing with maintenance issues after severe November flooding and freezing temperatures in December and January. Station 61 on Odell Road sustained sprinkler damage

where bunker gear was stored and station 63 in Birch Bay had extensive damage to the dry system in its training tower. Insurance covered the sprinkler damage and the district decided to permanently disable the dry system instead of repairing it, Van der Veen said. The district’s pre-2005 phone system is also experiencing intermittent outages in the district’s office, but does not impact emergency services. The phone system only had one company left supporting it, which closed suddenly in December. “Sometimes we have voicemails, sometimes we don’t. Sometimes the phones ring, sometimes they don’t,” Van der Veen said. “It’s not acceptable for an emergency response agency to not have landlines so we can be contacted by the public.” Van der Veen said he’s most concerned the district’s finances will make it harder to retain its employees in the future. “We’re not a sinking ship,” he said. “I think what we are is an underpowered tugboat trying to do our job.”

Donald Leu sworn into school board

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s Blaine school district superintendent Christopher Granger swears in new school board member Donald Leu at the board’s regular monthly meeting February 28. The board voted 4-0 to appoint Leu in a February 16 special meeting. Leu will fill former board member Laura McKinney’s district 5 seat for two years. Photo by Lisa Moeller

$20 million go to Blaine truck crossing The U.S. General Services Administration (GSA) announced February 25 that more than $20 million in federal funds is planned to be used to increase the number of inspection lanes at the Pacific Highway truck crossing. Work is also planned for the Lynden and Sumas crossings. Through the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law President Joe Biden signed into law in 2021, $3.4 billion is available for GSA to build and modernize land ports of en-

try on the northern and southern U.S. borders, according to the GSA news release. The investments are intended to improve commerce and trade, create jobs and incorporate sustainability features as well as support U.S. Customs and Border Protection’s mission to safeguard America’s borders. According to the plans, GSA would add four vehicle entry lanes at the Pacific Highway truck crossing, bringing the total

to 10 primary inspection lanes. A new canopy and expanded bays for secondary inspections are planned as well. Work on the Lynden crossing would include adding two passenger car lanes and three commercial inspection lanes. Sumas would get another passenger and two commercial lanes. No project deadlines have been announced, but planning is expected to start in the next several months.

March 3 - 9, 2022 • thenorthernlight.com

Sports Blaine beats Wahluke by 2 points to make state tournament By Ian Haupt Blaine’s boys basketball team secured a trip to the state tournament in Yakima for the first time since 2004 as the Borderites defeated Wahluke 50-48 at Mount Vernon High School February 26. Coming into the loser-out game, No. 9 Blaine and No. 16 Wahluke needed a win to continue on to the state tournament. With a 19-point lead in the third quarter after putting together a 21-0 run, the Borderites looked like they would be playing again this season. But the Warriors battled back. “It was a really cool atmosphere for the kids,” head coach Brett Farrar said. “We played really well on offense in the first and third quarters.” The Warriors cut the Borderites lead to 10 points and then forced multiple turnovers that were returned on fast breaks. A Warrior three-pointer tied the game at 4848 with 45 seconds left. The energy in the Mount Vernon High School gymnasium was unmatched. Warrior fans had hope, while Borderites had nerves. “Warrior power!” and “Borderite power!” chants synced up briefly, but the Warriors were louder. However, the Borderites had the ball, and their senior leader and point guard Scott Baldwin was on it. With space on the wing, he drove to the rim and scored a layup with six seconds left, completely shifting the momentum in the Bulldog gym. The Borderites stopped the final Wahluke drive and the traveling Blaine students rushed the court. Junior Carson Lehnert finished with 14 points and three three-pointers. Baldwin had 11 points, senior Cole Thomas had 10, senior Avery Dohner had seven, junior Matthew Russ had six, and senior Jaxon Kortlever had two. The Borderites were scheduled to play No. 8 Quincy at 2 p.m. March 2 at the Yakima Valley SunDome. The game had not been played by press time. If they won, the boys would play No. 2 Lynden Christian at 2 p.m. Thursday, March 3 in the 1A quarterfinal. All the state basketball games will be livestreamed online at bit. ly/3szqZqT. Farrar said Quincy has one of the best offense the Borderites will have faced this season. “They have two kids that are really good, and that we’re going to have to watch out for,” he said. Blaine has been strong defensively all season, holding good teams like Lynden and Lynden Christian to some of their lowest point totals this season. Most of the current team wasn’t alive the last time Blaine made it to state. Farrar said for the boys on the team making it to state was making a lifelong dream come true. “Now that we’re here, we want to keep playing,” he said.

s Blaine Police Department and North Whatcom Fire and Rescue vehicles escort Blaine’s boys varsity basketball team off campus on their way to the state tournament in Yakima March 1, as students and staff send them off. Photo by Janell Kortlever

s Cole Thomas with possession of the ball in Blaine 1A regional game February 26 at Mount Vernon High School. Photo by Janell Kortlever

s Matthew Russ in the Borderites 50-48 win over Wahluke February 26 at Mount Vernon High School. Photo by Janell Kortlever

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The Northern Light • March 3 - 9, 2022

Health & Wellness Local choices in health, healing & fitness.

Covid-19 in Whatcom County, by school district boundaries: Recent two-week case rates, cumulative counts and vaccinations Blaine Vaccination: 76% Case rate: 228 New cases: 42

Lynden Nooksack Valley Vaccination: 59% Vaccination: 56% Case rate: 302 Case rate: 235 New cases: 59 New cases: 27

Ferndale Meridian Vaccination: 72% Vaccination: 68% Case rate: 202 Case rate: 89 New cases: 68 New cases: 10

Mount Baker Vaccination: 50% Case rate: 99 New cases: 16

Bellingham Vaccination: 83% Case rate: 184 New cases: 199

s The case rate is the number of confirmed Covid-19 cases per 100,000 people over the past week. New cases are the total number of confirmed Covid-19 cases in the past week. Vaccination is the percentage of the population that has had at least one vaccine shot. Rates were updated February 19.

Whatcom County Covid-19 case rates are quickly declining from the omicron variant’s peak in mid-January. All school district areas in Whatcom County decreased in Covid-19 cases since last week, according to Whatcom County Health Department data. The case rate in the Blaine area, 228 cases per 100,000 people, is the lowest it’s been since late December 2021. Lynden had the highest case rate at 302 cases per 100,000 people and Meridian had the lowest at 89 cases per 100,000 people. The Blaine school district area had the third highest Covid-19 case rates in the county. Seven county residents died

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from Covid-19 in the past reporting week, bringing the virus death toll up to 267 people in Whatcom County. The first young person in the county died from Covid-19, who was between the ages of 10 and 19. On March 1, 15 PeaceHealth patients had either been admitted for Covid-19 or tested positive for Covid-19 after being admitted for another reason. People 25-44 years old have the highest Covid-19 transmissions in the county, with 280 cases per 100,000 people. The health department had not released its weekly Covid-19 report that includes details on Covid-19 deaths and hospitalizations by press time.

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March 3 - 9, 2022 • thenorthernlight.com

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The Northern Light • March 3 - 9, 2022

Blaine varsity chess team sends 5 to state

Road Rules: The rules for e-bike users traveling on city and county trails By Doug Dahl

s The Blaine High School varsity chess team is on its way to the Washington High School Chess Association’s state championship this weekend after beating Meridian. Photos courtesy Blaine school district

By Ian Haupt After sweeping Meridian in scoring with five out of five points, the Blaine High School varsity chess team booked a spot at the Washington High School Chess Association’s state championship tournament in Stanwood this weekend. Freshmen Carson Roesch and Shawn Waters, sophomores Maddy Reiss and Xander Hodges, and junior Owen Millsap will compete in Stanwood Friday, March 4 and Saturday, March 5. “First, I would like to say how proud I am of our entire team,” coach Jeremy Roesch wrote in a community message. “We start-

ed the season with a very young team, no returning students and pretty much our entire team was new to the game. The prospects of making the state tournament looked slim as we needed to build a strong foundation. We entered our final meet with the pressure on as we were just one point out of state contention.” Roesch said the team won three of five games against Sehome, forcing them out of the competition. “With their confidence boosted, the varsity then went on to sweep Meridian scoring an impressive five out of five points and solidifying a spot in the state championship!” he wrote. “Great job, go Borderites!”

Question: Can e-bike riders use city and county trails? Answer: Sometimes when I get a question I like to imagine the sentence before the question. For example, the lead-in to this one could be, “I have a new e-bike, and now I’m trying to figure out where I can ride it.” Or it could be, “My neighbor got a new e-bike and is constantly riding it on the trails in our neighborhood.” Either way, the answer is the same. What changes is how you’ll feel about the answer. Before we can answer the question though, we need to understand how Washington categorizes electric bikes. There are three classes of e-bikes. Class one and class two both have a top assisted speed of 20 mph. Any speed above 20 mph is entirely on human power. What separates class one and class two bikes is that on a class one bike you have to pedal to get any assistance from the motor, while on a class two bike the motor can provide power even if you’re not pedaling. A class three bike has a top assisted speed of 28 mph. Where you can ride depends on the class of e-bike you’re riding. On the road, all classes of e-bikes have access to the same extent as bicycles. On a shared-use trail, the rules are different. Class one and two bikes may be ridden on a shared-use trail unless prohibited. With class three e-bikes it’s the reverse; they are prohibited from riding on shareduse trails unless the jurisdiction in charge of the trail makes an excep-

s The Birch Bay berm. tion. For class one and two riders, if there’s no sign on the shared-use path prohibiting your bike, you’re good to go. For class three riders, if there’s no sign authorizing your bike, you’re out of luck. The law also states that when a trail runs through multiple jurisdictions the same rules apply for the whole trail. That’s a handy law that saves an e-bike rider from encountering a sudden change of use on a trail and getting stranded halfway through a ride. There’s one trail-related prohibition that applies to all e-bikes. When a trail is designated as nonmotorized and has “a natural surface tread that is made by clearing and grading the native soil” e-bikes are not allowed unless the jurisdiction responsible for the trail makes an exception. While not part of the original question, I’ll also note that class three e-bikes are not allowed on sidewalks, while class one and two e-bikes are allowed (unless in an area where all bikes aren’t allowed, like some downtown business districts.) Since we’re talking about e-bikes,

Photo by Ian Haupt

can I just tell you how demoralizing it is when you train all spring for a big ride, and then while grinding it out you see someone in a polka-dot helmet sitting upright on a cruiser bike effortlessly pedaling past you with a friendly wave? When electric bikes were new and rare I experienced that while riding on a shared use path, and it took me a bit to figure out that I got passed by an electric bike, not someone with super-human quads and exceptional control of their heart rate. That was a gracious encounter, but it brings up a point. I’ve often said of car drivers that when you’re the biggest and the fastest, you bear the greatest responsibility for safety. When you ride your e-bike on the road you’re the vulnerable one, but when you’re on a trail you’re the biggest and fastest, so take on that mantle of responsibility and watch out for the slower and smaller folks. Doug Dahl is a manager with the Washington Traffic Safety Commission, Region 11 and publishes TheWiseDrive.com.

U.S. Coast Guard offering boater education B y G e o r gi a C o s t a The U.S. Coast Guard is offering four opportunities this spring to obtain a Washington state Boater Education Card through online courses. All Washington state residents over the age of 12 or born after January 1, 1955 – under 67 – must have the card while operating a boat of 15 horsepower or greater.

People who complete the course can obtain their boater education card, a separate application issued by the Washington state Parks and Recreation Commission. The course is broken down into two-hour sessions over four days and will be over Zoom. The opportunities are March 7-10, April 11-14, May 9-12 and June 6-9. All classes run

6:30-8:30 p.m., and are on Mondays, Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays. There will be a test at the end of the four sessions. Course participants can pay $20 to register and receive a digital course book for $5, or $30 to cover registration and a printed book. To register, visit BLIaux.com. Email boatingsafetyWA@gmail. com for questions and concerns.

Free webinar on citizenship expatriation A local law firm and a tax-consulting firm are offering a free webinar on citizenship expatriation, the process of giving up citizenship to a country, on Thursday, March 10. Bellingham-based Cascadia Cross-Border Law and MNP LLC, which offers accounting and tax Meet We dd ing Speci al ists t hat w ill he lp you plan your perfect da y!

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services in B.C., will host the clinic at 9 a.m. March 10 via Zoom. MNP partners Katri Ulmonen and David Cender as well as Cascadia attorney Heather Fathali will discuss the pros and cons of relinquishing U.S. nationality for tax and legal reasons. According to the event descrip-

tion, the following topics will be covered: • The accidental American: Who qualifies as a U.S. person? • Process and timelines of expatriation • Renunciation vs. relinquishment • Legal and tax consequences of expatriation • How to mitigate and manage double taxation • Cross-border investment and tax planning strategies • Non-compliant U.S. tax filers: What are your options going forward? • Post expatriation To register for the virtual event, visit bit.ly/3h6btMk.

March 3 - 9, 2022 • thenorthernlight.com

NEXT ISSUE: March 10 AD DEADLINE: March 7

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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 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

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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

SATURN GROUP LLC, LAURENT BENTITOU, 2930 Richards Rd Ste 100 Bellevue, WA 98005-4410, is seeking coverage under the Washington State Department of Ecology’s Construction Stormwater NPDES and State Waste Discharge General Permit. The proposed project, Deming, is located at 6359 Mt Baker Hwy in Deming in Whatcom county. This project involves 0.75 acres of soil disturbance for Commercial construction activities. The receiving waterbody is Deming Creek. Any persons desiring to present their views to the Washington State Department of Ecology regarding this Application, or interested in Ecology’s action on this Application, may notify Ecology in writing no later than 30 days of the last date of publication of this notice. Ecology reviews public comments and considers whether discharges from this project would cause a measurable change in receiving water quality, and, if so, whether the project is necessary and in the overriding public interest according to Tier II anti-degradation requirements under WAC 173-201A-320. Comments can be submitted to: ecyrewqianoi@ecy.wa.gov, or ATTN: Water Quality Program, Construction Stormwater Washington State Department of Ecology P.O. Box 47696 Olympia, WA 98504-7696

Find it in the Classifieds!

IN THE SUPERIOR COURT OF THE STATE OF WASHINGTON IN AND FOR WHATCOM COUNTY In re the Estate of: CAROL LYNN KURTZWEIL, Deceased. No. 22-4-00172-37. NOTICE TO CREDITORS. Judge David Freeman 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: February 15, 2022 with Clerk of Court: Date of First Publication: February 24, 2022 Name of Personal Representative: CINDY MAXWELL Attorney for Personal Representatives: Steven D. Avery, WSBA #35262 Address for Mailing or Service: Avery Elder Law, P.S. 801 Samish Way, Ste. 202 Bellingham WA 98229 Telephone: (360) 325-2550 Email: steve@averyelderlaw.com DATED: February 15, 2022. AVERY ELDER LAW, P.S. STEVEN D. AVERY, WSBA #35262 Attorney for Personal Representative CINDY MAXWELL

IN THE SUPERIOR COURT OF THE STATE OF WASHINGTON IN AND FOR WHATCOM COUNTY In re the Estate of: REX TIMOTHY DAVIS, Deceased. No. 224-00198-37. 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 23, 2022 with Clerk of Court: Date of First Publication: March 3, 2022 Name of Administrator: MICHAEL DAVIS 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 23, 2022 AVERY ELDER LAW, P.S. STEVEN D. AVERY, WSBA #35262 Attorney for Administrator MICHAEL DAVIS www.averyelderlaw.com

IN THE SUPERIOR COURT OF THE STATE OF WASHINGTON IN AND FOR THE COUNTY OF WHATCOM In the matter of the Estates of MURRAY ALBERT CHURCH and GAIL PATRICIA AMUNDSEN, Deceased. No. 22-4-00211-37. PROBATE NOTICE TO CREDITORS. (RCW 11.40.030) The Co-Personal Representatives named below have been appointed as Co-Personal Representatives of the above estates. Any person having a claim against the deceased MURRAY ALBERT CHURCH and/or the deceased GAIL PATRICIA AMUNDSEN must, before the time the claim would be barred by any otherwise applicable statute of limitations, present the claim in the manner provided by RCW 11.40.070 by serving on or mailing to the Co-Personal Representatives or the Co-Personal Representatives’ Attorney at the address stated below, a copy of the claim, and filing the original of the claim with the Court in which the probated proceedings have commenced. The claim must be presented within the later of: (1) thirty days after the Co-Personal Representatives mailed the notice to the creditor as provided under RCW 11.40.020 (1) (c); or (2) four months after the date of first publication of this notice. If the claim is not presented within this time frame, the claim will be forever barred except as otherwise provided in RCW 11.40.051 or 11.40.060. This bar is effective as to claims against both the probate and nonprobate assets of the Decedents. DATE OF FILING OF NOTICE TO CREDITORS WITH CLERK OF THE COURT: February 25,2022 DATE OF FIRST PUBLICATION: March 3,2022 CO-PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVES: DAWSON CHURCH & HAILEY CHURCH ATTORNEY FOR CO-PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVES: Mark W. Stowe, WSBA #16655 ADDRESS FOR MAILING OR SERVICE: Stowe Law PLLC 276 Boundary Bay Road P.O. Box 129 Point Roberts, WA 98281 Phone: (360) 945-0337 Email:stowelawpllc@outlook.com DATED this 25th day of February 2022. STOWE LAW PLLC: Mark W. Stowe, WSBA# 16655 Attorney for Co-Personal Representatives

IN THE SUPERIOR COURT OF THE STATE OF WASHINGTON IN AND FOR THE COUNTY OF Whatcom In Re the Estate of Raymond Bakke, Deceased. NO. 22-400203-37. 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: March 3, 2022 Personal Representative: Kent Brian Bakke 1644 4th Street NW Washington, DC 20001 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. 22-4-00203-37

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The Northern Light • March 3 - 9, 2022

Real Estate

BLAINE, BIRCH BAY & SEMIAHMOO

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

F E A T U R E D L I S T I N G S - B I R C H B AY

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

OPEN SUN 1-4 SAT &

5571 E Shoreview

MLS #1890294 $345,000 Handyman Special! Lots of potential here with this two bedroom, two bath manufactured home on a lovely private lot in Bay Ridge Estates at Birch Bay. Roof replaced in November of 2019. Replace the deck and you will have spectacular views of Mt. Baker and the protected wetland sanctuary. End of cul-de-sac location with large garage for cars and storage, plenty of room in driveway for additional RV. Needs work and being sold “as is”.

Ingrid Andaluz 360-961-0488

4576 California Trail

MLS #1892938 $585,000 MEDIUM BANK WATERFRONT! Launch your kayak or canoe from your backyard California Creek shoreline. This 5 bedroom custom built charmer is a fantastic opportunity with separate living room/bonus room/office areas...the ideal scenario for working or schooling from home. Main floor primary suite features ensuite bathroom, walk in closet + private sliding doors to massive deck. Garage & driveway parking for multiple cars, boats or trailers. Easy access to I-5.

Jen Freeman 360-815-0803

4849 Wedgewood Court

MLS #1893934 $689,000 Center of Bay living! Birch Bay home in gated Sea Links community features views of bay from private, quiet, back of cul-de-sac lot. Inviting home has living room, kitchen, dining, one full bath with access to one of 2 bedrooms, double sided fireplace, deck access, utility room, & 2 car garage. Upstairs is all primary suite with jetted tub, shower, sitting area with fireplace, & deck access. Downstairs is family room, kitchenette, half bath, one bed & lots of storage!

Ken Gustafson 360-319-0189

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

955 Third Street #101 MLS #1894667 $360,000

Hard to find water view condo that is newer & in immaculate shape. Very good access to main roads yet in quiet setting off small private lane. Entire complex is only 4 units (2 buildings) & dues are only $100 per month. 2 parking spots per unit. In Blaine itself & close to border as well as a hop skip and jump to I-5 & Bellingham. Single level Floor plan using views of water for living room & dining area. Granite counter-tops, stainlesssteel appliances & upgraded crown molding.

Gary Davidson 360-927-1827

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

1035 Gerogia Street

MLS #1894537 $450,000 LOCATION IS EVERYTHING. Walking distance to schools, Blaine’s waterfront downtown District, parks, easy I-5 access, close to shopping, 3 bedroom 1 bath single level home situated on good sized fenced lot on dead end street, many upgrades include, 2 Ductless mini split heat pumps, gas Hot water heater, cement board siding, composition roof, natural gas fireplace, windows have been upgraded, & large rear deck.

Billy Brown 360-220-7175 Tonya Wahl 541-707-0196

8756 Waters Edge Way

MLS #1878928 $220,000 Beautiful wooded 5-acre parcel bordering future Bay to Bay trail leading to Birch Bay to south, City of Blaine to north. New California Creek estuary park property a few hundred feet to the east. Short drive to shopping, schools, Blaine’s waterfront downtown district, saltwater marina & Birch Bay’s sandy beaches. 4-bedroom Glendon Bio filter Septic System installed. Birch Bay Water district service available. Electricity is in the street.

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. Minutes to I-5, shopping & services. Completely remodeled w/slab granite surfaces & artisan quality tile work. Spa like Luxurious Master bath. Vaulted family room w/fireplace. Sunny South facing deck w/ pool. 4+ Big bedrooms. High & dry barn includes tack room, custom saddle racks, 12X12 stalls ea. w/removable walls, mats.

Lisa Kent 360-594-8034

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 $1,090,000

Stunning quality built custom home on 1st fairway at Semiahmoo. Quail Run--tucked inside the neighborhood is sought-after location that offers peace-quiet-privacy! Well-built home has 3-car garage-incredible storage-- vaulted ceilings. All main floor living with chef’s kitchen, ideal home office space & laundry/mudroom. Floor plan flows effortlessly. 2 private guest suites with open family room. Wraparound deck--irreplaceable, mature landscaping with pond.

Kathy Stauffer 360-815-4718

Woodberry at Semiahmoo

MLS #1875933 Woodberry consists of 29 single family homes. Woodberry is gated community with all underground utilities, sidewalks, natural gas, located at The Resort Semiahmoo in Blaine. Plans include 3 two level home plans ranging from 24543029sf +/- and 1 single level 2036 sf home plan +/-. Plans include 2 & 3 car garages. Live on Garibaldi Ln, Ct or Wy. Amenities are Ala Carte & include: Semiahmoo Golf & Country Club, Semiahmoo Marina, 200 room Inn at Semiahmoo with Heath Club & Spa.

Brian Southwick 360-815-6638 Jim Kaemingk 360-224-5465

8828 Semiahmoo Drive

MLS #1893199 $849,000 New construction in natural setting along Semiahmoo Dr. Quiet & private on 1/3 acre-ideal Country location close to local amenities but no HOA. Main floor living, high ceilings & plenty of windows. 2nd story has 2 private guest rooms with balconies & peeka-boo views of water. As area develops & trees come down view will only get better. Large bonus room over garage with plumbing for wet bar. Property is fitted with RV parking/220V hook-up. Outfitted with heat pump, tankless hot water, SS appliances.

Kathy Stauffer 360-815-4718

5438 Snow Goose Lane #104

MLS #1891720 $349,000 Ground floor 2-BR/2-BA unit at Country Club Villas in Semiahmoo that includes gated community access, carport parking, concrete patio, storage and close proximity to golf, tennis and beaches.

John Dickerson 360-920-4950

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

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 Alma Tiesinga. Probate No. 22-4-00064-37 Judge: Lee Grochmal. The Personal Representative named below have 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 Co-Personal Representatives 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: 2/24/2022. Personal Representative: Jeremy Tiesinga. Attorney for the Estate: Keith Bode, WSBA #7791 314 5th Street, P.O. Box 688, Lynden, WA 98264-0688, Tel. (360) 354-5021

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

81 % of readers frequently purchase ! D L or services SOproducts from ads seen in Community Newspaper of Blaine, Birch Bay & Semiahmoo

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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

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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

Classifieds are online at thenorthernlight.com/classifieds

March 3 - 9, 2022 • thenorthernlight.com

Washington redistricting panel admits it broke the law. What now?

OBIT header?

O B I T U A RY

A settlement will allow the new congressional and legislative maps to stand, but the commission must make future changes By Melissa Santos, Crosscut.com The commission in charge of redrawing Washington state’s political district boundaries has admitted that it broke the law last year by conducting its negotiations in secret. A settlement agreement, which Washington’s redistricting commission voted to approve on February 23, concedes that the commission members violated the state’s Open Public Meetings Act (OPMA) last November by approving new congressional and legislative district maps with little to no public deliberation. The settlement resolves two open meetings lawsuits filed against the five-member commission, a body that meets every 10 years after the U.S. census to decide how to redraw the state’s political districts. As part of the February 23 settlement, the redistricting commission agreed to adopt new rules that aim to prevent a repeat of last year’s opaque, closed-door mapmaking process. Those rule changes will include a ban on commission members retreating into private sessions to negotiate district boundaries, something they did repeatedly last November in the hours before their final deadline to approve new redistricting maps. At the same time, the settlement ensures that the new political maps approved by the commission won’t be overturned in court because of open-meetings violations. That means the new districts decided on by the commission are almost certain to be in effect for the November 2022 midterm elections – a huge relief for politicians who are trying to run for reelection this fall, as well as those seeking public office for the first time. “We concluded the Supreme Court and legislature had no interest in invalidating the plan and maps so close to the 2022 elections,” said Mike Fancher, president of the Washington Coalition for Open Government, in a news release. The nonprofit government watchdog group, which filed one of the lawsuits accusing the commissioners of secret deal-making, had originally sought to get the maps invalidated over the public-meetings act violations. “We took no position on maps, but pursued an outcome that ensures this commission and future commissions will not repeat the same mistakes,” Fancher said in the news release. “We feel this outcome achieved that aim.” The settlement, which must be affirmed by a Thurston County Superior Court judge, also requires the five members of the commission to pay $500 each in penalties, as well as to cover the open government group’s

legal costs, which total about $120,000. The commission separately agreed to pay citizen activist Arthur West, the plaintiff in a second open-meetings lawsuit, $15,000 to drop his claim. The Redistricting Commission consists of four voting members, one appointed by each of the legislature’s four political caucuses, plus a nonvoting chair. What went wrong in 2021 The redistricting commission’s decisions have deep ramifications, determining who can run for office in a given district, which party has an advantage and whether communities of color end up split between districts, diluting their voting power. Both of the OPMA lawsuits filed against the commission focused on the commission’s meeting of November 15, 2021. That was the deadline for the commission to approve a plan for new congressional and legislative district maps. During a five-hour meeting that evening, the commissioners retreated into private sessions, emerging a few minutes before their midnight deadline to vote on an agreement they didn’t discuss or share in public. Commissioners over the following days said they had come to an agreement in private on a “framework” for a deal, but did not have finalized maps at the time of the vote. Nor was that “framework” documented in writing. While the commissioners conceded they blew their deadline, the state Supreme Court subsequently said that it would accept the commission’s work and not take over the redistricting process, which normally would be the next step outlined in the state constitution. Later on, legislative staffers said commission members were making decisions on map boundaries after the midnight November 15 deadline, outside of any public meeting. The OPMA, which applies to the redistricting commission the same way it applies to city councils, requires a legislative body’s decisions and deliberations to occur in public. A commission spokesperson originally said the commission wasn’t meeting in an illegal closed session because the four voting commissioners weren’t meeting all together. Instead, the four voting commissioners met privately in groups of two, to avoid creating a quorum as they discussed commission business. The commission referred to this system as meeting in “caucus dyads.” But the settlement agreement offers a different perspective and says the commission still violated the OPMA with this arrangement, because commissioners and commission staff communicated information about negotiations back and forth. This

effectively created an illegal “serial meeting” where consensus was reached among the four commissioners outside of public view, even though the commissioners weren’t meeting together as a full group, according to the settlement. The commissioners also broke the law by taking actions after their meeting adjourned, such as deciding when to post final maps to the commission website, the settlement said. A press release from the commission said the violations were not intentional. The four voting commissioners – Joe Fain, Paul Graves, April Sims and Brady Walkinshaw – did not provide additional information when asked for comment. Future fixes As part of the settlement, the commission agreed to change its practices going forward so that similar violations are less likely to take place during the state’s next redistricting process, in 2031. For one, the commission members – present and future – will have to go through more thorough open government training. And, going forward, the commission will not be allowed “to convene a public meeting and then recess to enable commissioners to deliberate among themselves,” according to the settlement. Exceptions will be allowed only for specific reasons already allowed in the OPMA, such as to discuss pending litigation or personnel matters. Voting in private and negotiating a deal in private, as the commission did in 2021, won’t be allowed. What’s more, the commissioners will have to make their final redistricting plan public before they vote on it. And that final plan will need to include actual district maps, along with detailed descriptions of which census blocks and tracts fall into which district. That means no more voting on a vague, unwritten framework of a deal.

William Harry Hurier

January 13, 1942 – February 24, 2022 William Harry Hurier (Bill) born on January 13, 1942, in Torrington, CT, passed away February 24, 2022. Bill is survived by his loving wife Estrella; daughter Autumn; and seven grandchildren Andrea, Sarah, Andy, René, Emma, Jack and Elliot. Bill was a proud retired Vietnam Veteran who served two tours as a Staff Sergeant Infantry Scout and marksmanship instructor in the Marine Corps. After his service, Bill enjoyed time with his grandchildren, loved fishing, traveling, and tending to his garden. His intelligence, humor, generosity, and bright spirit will be sorely missed. Please share memories of Bill at molesfarewelltributes.com

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