The Northern Light
General election voting opens, ballots mailed
B y I an H auptWhatcom County residents should be receiving their November 8 general election ballots any day, now that Whatcom County Auditor’s Office mailed ballots October 19. A wide range of measures and offices are up for a vote, including Proposition 5, state 42nd Legislative District positions and U.S. Congress representatives.
Below are the measures and positions up for a vote:
• Statewide Advisory Vote No. 39 – Tax on aircraft fuel increased from 11 cents to 18 cents per gallon, costing $14 million in its first 10 years, for government spending.
• Statewide Advisory Vote No. 40 –Premiums on “transportation network companies” to provide workers compensation to their drivers.
• Whatcom County Proposition 5; Children’s Initiative Levy Lid Lift –Authorize county to increase property taxes by 19 cents per $1,000 of assessed valuation for ten consecutive years to fund early learning programs, childcare, and support homeless or otherwise vulnerable children.
• Whatcom County Proposition 6; Regular Property Tax Levy for Emergency Medical Services (EMS) – Authorize county to continue to impose a regular property tax levy of 29.5 cents or less per $1,000 of assessed valuation for each of the six consecutive years.
• U.S. Senator – Incumbent Patty Murray running against Tiffany Smiley.
• U.S. Representative – Incumbent Rick
Blaine Community Theater returns for first full performance since pandemic
B y G race M c c art H yBlaine Community Theater (BCT) is returning for its first full performance since the pandemic with an adaptation of Terry Pratchett’s “Wyrd Sisters.” The show will run weekends from Friday, October 21 through Sunday, October 30 at Blaine High School’s Orange and Black Box Theater.
The “Wyrd Sisters” is English author Terry Pratchett’s sixth novel in his 41-volume fantasy series Discworld and pulls inspiration from Shakespeare’s
“MacBeth.” The play, which is told from the witches’ point of view, pokes fun at politics, theater and fairy tales. The play chronicles the three witches and other characters who triumph over an evil duke after the King of Lancre is murdered and his heir vanishes.
BCT artistic director Nick McDonald directs the play, which British writer Stephen Briggs adapted for stage. Since the pandemic, BCT has put on a Christmas show as well as “Pirates of Penzance” during Pirate Daze, but this will be the first
State senate candidates answer questions on priorities, qualifications ahead of general election
The Northern Light asked the candidates running for the 42nd Legislative District Senate seat about their top priorities, if elected, and why they believe they are the best candidate for north Whatcom County residents. The candidates provided written responses to the questions.
Sharon Shewmake
What are your top three priorities for Blaine, Birch Bay, Custer and Point
Roberts if elected? How will you work to ensure those priorities are met?
I enjoy spending time in northwest Whatcom County, making sure you are heard and have what you need from Olympia. Regional priorities are housing affordability, lowering taxes on working people, jobs, lowering the price of healthcare, safe neighborhoods, keeping schools and childcare open, protecting a woman’s right to choose, and better policy to help reduce the risk of flooding and
improve recovery.
We have more work to do on the intersection at Bell Road and you need fewer potholes on Bruce Road in Custer. I want to make sure we build the Birch Bay library. Blaine and Point Roberts have been devastated by border closures. Many of the issues were federal or Canadian policies, but I’m committed to keep working with border communities to build a more
large-scale performance for the group.
Mikael McDonald is the BCT president and plays the duchess Felmet, a Pratchett version of Lady Macbeth. She said her favorite part of rehearsals is being with the actors, which includes someone who was in BCT’s first play in 1999 to new members who will debut in “Wyrd Sisters.”
“It’s been a while since we’ve been able to do a full production after the whole Covid shutdown,” she said. “All of these very different people and different
Theater ...
From
backgrounds come together and turn into a family in the course of a very short time. I really have missed that.”
Mikael McDonald said people who appreciate Pratchett or Monty Python will enjoy the show. She said BCT will consider performing more plays adapted from Pratchett’s novels if the community is interested.
“It’s a very funny play. Very British in a lot of ways,” she said. “It’s really fun and the
performances are going to be pretty good. It’s one I want people to come out and get the chance to see.”
The play will start at 7 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays and 2 p.m. on Sundays for the next two weekends. The theater is located at 1055 H Street, behind Blaine High School’s football field. Tickets cost $15, and are reduced to $12 for seniors, veterans and students.
For more information and to purchase tickets, visit blainecommunitytheater.com/ now-playing.
Q & A with new Whatcom County parks and recreation department director
B y G race M c c art H yBennett Knox started working as the new director for the Whatcom County parks and recreation department at the beginning of September. Knox joined the county from Louisville Metro Parks, where he worked for 20 years, most recently as parks administrator for the natural areas division and Jefferson Memorial Forest.
He earned his bachelor’s degree in natural resource conservation from the University of Kentucky and master of engineering management in resource ecology at Duke University. The parks department oversees 16,000 acres of land including natural areas, parks, campgrounds, historic buildings and nearly 70 miles of trails. It also manages eight senior centers, a community center and a rifle range.
The Northern Light sat down with Knox and asked him about his biggest priorities for the new position, how he plans to connect with the community and which trails are his favorite so far in Whatcom County.
This interview has been edited for length and clarity.
What interested you in the position?
I had a longtime interest. I
initially applied to graduate school in the Pacific Northwest.
This job was going to involve types of properties that I had been doing in Louisville’s natural area management, which attracted me as a next step. We did a lot of programming, not as much farmland management and land acquisition. The ability to bring the experiences I have working with the community as well as do a lot more attention on resource management was really attractive.
What are your top three goals in your first year for Whatcom County and how do you plan to execute them?
I’m still developing my goals. In all honesty, I’m in a bit of a learning phase right now. We have a project backlog, so that’s got to be a top priority and involves building staff capacity.
One of my big goals for the year, hopefully I’ll make a lot of progress on it early, is developing an understanding of what the community looks like here and how best the parks department can support that.
What are your biggest priorities for the Birch Bay area?
I’m trying to get a sense of how the parks we have right now fit together with the goals of what the community wants to see. I
think we have a great plan for the Birch Bay Beach Park. I’m excited to move this project forward. We need to work toward raising the funding to implement the phased plan. Trying to get started on the first phase elements of that plan is really important for next year.
Do you know when the Birch Bay Beach Park could be finished?
It’s probably going to take a few years. The cost estimate we had done in 2016 was around $6 million fully executed and it’s been a few years so there’s been
Birch Bay Village man found guilty of harassment, serves 73 days
A Birch Bay man who allegedly threatened to kill his neighbors and an on-duty Birch Bay Village security guard in July was found guilty of harassment in Whatcom County District Court last month. The Northern Light previously reported that his case had been dismissed in Whatcom County Superior Court, which was due to a plea in the district court.
Scott Brandon Peterson, 50, was sentenced to 364 days in jail after he was found guilty of harassment on September 2 in Whatcom County District Court.
Peterson will serve 73 days in a jail alternative center after 291 days of his sentence were
suspended, according to court documents.
Peterson was booked into Whatcom County Jail July 9 on suspicion of harassment, carrying a weapon, reckless driving and third-degree malicious mischief. He was released September 4 from Whatcom County Jail having served 57 days and earned 16 good time credits, according to Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office (WCSO) corrections chief Wendy Jones.
Peterson’s felony charges were either dropped or dismissed without prejudice in Superior Court. He pled guilty September 2 to the misdemeanor harassment
Photo by Grace McCarthy (See Parks, page 10)
Just minutes from I-5 and down a quiet country road, you’ll find this charming and updated 1930’s craftsman home complete with 2 stall barn w/tack room, chicken coop, & large shop. Located on 4.1 level acres and great sandy soil, this homestead would make a great starter farm with plenty of room for animals and gardens, or your own peaceful retreat away from the city. Country living at it’s best!
charge at the district level. District courts handle misdemeanor criminal cases with jail sentences of less than a year and/or a fine up to $5,000.
Northwest Fusion Cuisine Right Here in Blaine!
Peterson, in the early morning of July 9, reportedly threatened an on-duty security guard at Birch Bay Village and told the guard he was going to kill his neighbors, according to the affidavit of probable cause. He then proceeded to stab the security podium, cut camera wires, broke glass in the street, threatened to kill his neighbors and himself, and later tried to avoid WCSO deputies.
Birch Bay man pleads guilty to elder abuse
A Birch Bay man who was arrested April 3, 2021, after a 71-year-old woman he was supposed to be caring for was found lying face down covered in her feces will serve over a year in jail.
Robert William Savage, 53, was convicted of second-degree criminal mistreatment, domestic violence, after pleading guilty October 3 in Whatcom County Superior Court. Savage received a 13-month sentence, which is the minimum given for such an offense, and a five-year nocontact order.
The woman’s son and granddaughter visited the trailer April 2, 2021, in the 7000 block of Jackson Road and found the
woman lying face down on the floor wearing a nightgown that was soiled in her own feces and urine while Savage slept, according to the affidavit of probable cause (APC).
It took the woman’s son and granddaughter 15 minutes to wake Savage. According to the APC, when asked why he didn’t help the woman, Savage said he couldn’t pick her up.
Medical personnel were called to the scene and the woman was taken to the hospital for concerns of sepsis and dehydration. The woman was in satisfactory condition as of April 8, 2021, according to a PeaceHealth St. Joseph Medical Center spokesperson.
A doctor who examined the woman at the hospital told deputies it was possible the woman had burns on her body and could have been on the floor between one and four days. She was admitted to the hospital due to her injuries and condition, and the doctor listed her diagnosis as elder abuse.
The woman’s son had requested a welfare check April 1, 2021, after not hearing from his mother since mid-March.
When Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office deputies responded, Savage told them the woman was sleeping and he didn’t want to wake her. Deputies had no reason to doubt Savage and left, the APC says.
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The Northern Light is published weekly by Point Roberts Press Inc.
Locally owned and managed, the com pany also publishes the All Point Bulletin, covering Point Roberts, Mount Baker Ex perience, 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 Associ ation, Chambers of Commerce of Belling ham/ 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 veri fication. Letters are limited to 350 words and may be edited or rejected for reasons of legality, length and good taste. The letters to the editor column is primarily intended to allow readers to voice their opinions on local issues of general interest to local readers. A fresh viewpoint will increase the likelihood of publication. Thank-you letters are lim ited 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. Con sumer complaints should be submitted di rectly to the business in question or the lo cal chamber of commerce. Only one letter per month from an individual correspon dent will be published. Email letters to letters@thenorthernlight.com.
Publisher & Managing Editor Patrick Grubb publisher@pointrobertspress.com
Co-publisher & Advertising Director Louise Mugar lmugar@pointrobertspress.com
Editor Grace McCarthy grace@pointrobertspress.com
Reporter Ian Haupt ian@pointrobertspress.com
Creative Services Ruth Lauman, Doug De Visser production@pointrobertspress.com
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General Editorial Inquiries editor@pointrobertspress.com
OpiniOn
The Northern Light wins ad of the year
The Editor:
I would like to thank the good Samaritans who helped my husband Jim on Wednesday, September 21 around 5:30 a.m. Jim was involved in a major car wreck on the way to the airport at the intersection of Kickerville and Bay roads. Both cars were totaled. Jim’s car ended up sideways in the ditch and the other car flew into the field. Jim only has vague memories of getting out of the car. He heard several voices asking, “Is anyone in there?” and “We need to get you out,” as the car was smoking.
He does not remember if he went out the door or out the sunroof. He does remember someone cutting the seatbelt, hands lifting him out and climbing on someone’s shoulder who helped him to safety. He also remembers people going back in the car to search for his glasses and cellphone.
All of this happened before the police and firefighters arrived at the scene. I am thankful that I live in a community with people who do not hesitate to rush to another person’s aid. Again, thank you so much. With warm wishes to all,
Pauline Nefcy BlaineLetters
The Editor:
This election cycle’s Voter’s Pamphlet has hit most of our mailboxes. Like many others, I welcome the information contained therein, particularly from candidates on the ballot that are running for positions in our district.
Of particular note to me was the information submitted by Simon Sefzik. His position as senator is a result of the unfortunate passing of Doug Ericksen. Allowing him to continue in the same capacity would be equally tragic in this writer’s opinion.
This 22-year-old is a graduate of Patrick Henry College in Virginia, an institution that lists its enrollment as 304. To quote from their website: “The Mission of Patrick Henry College is to prepare Christian men and women who will lead our nation and shape our culture with timeless biblical values and fidelity to the spirit of the American founding.”
Is anyone else here aware of the founding fathers’ resolve to separate church and state? Do the women voters in this district anticipate, as many of us do, how the indoctrination of an education such as Mr. Sefzik’s will affect women’s health and reproductive choices should he be given a
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.
Blaine Planning Commission: Second and fourth Thursdays, 6 p.m. Info: blainepc@cityofblaine.com. Info for joining Zoom meetings: bit.ly/2CiMKnk.
voice in such matters?
I strongly urge those who support the rights of women and who reject the notion that Christianity should be intertwined with how we are governed to reject Mr. Sefzik at the polls.
John M. Horgdal Birch BayThe Editor: Sefzik has signs by the hundreds, and perhaps thousands, on virtually every road in Whatcom County. Sefzik has the signs but Sharon Shewmake has the knowledge and experience that Sefzik lacks to be an effective senator for the 42nd Legislative District. Sefzik, according to The Seattle Times (10/17/22), interned in the Trump
(See Letters, next page)Editor’s note: The Northern Light does not publish political support letters a week before an election. Next week’s issue will be the last to have such letters published before the November 8 election.
Please send letters to letters@thenorthernlight.com no later than noon on Monday. Additional leters are posted online at thenorthernlight.com.
Blaine-Birch Bay Park and Recreation: Second Tuesday, 5:30 p.m., location varies. Info: bbbparkandrec.org. Virtual meeting info: bbbparkandrec.org/board-meetings.
Blaine 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.
Letters ...
From previous
White House. If you are following the national news, you know why this is not a good time to put Trump-aligned candidates into state legislatures. Please vote for Sharon Shewmake.
Pat Anderson BlaineThe Editor:
By now you must have seen or heard stories from Blaine and Birch Bay residents to the effect that postal service has suffered badly in recent months. Well, this past week my issue of The Northern Light paper never showed up (first time in 10 or so years); and while my nextdoor neighbor received her voter information packet, I did not. No mail today for either of us as I write this note, around 5:30 p.m. on Saturday.
To me it doesn’t make any
difference whether this failure is caused by staffing shortages, or by other systemic flaws introduced deliberately by our self-dealing idiot of a postmaster general, Louis DeJoy. Those letters, papers and packages must have gone somewhere. I wonder what our secretary of state, Mr. Steve Hobbs, would think about election materials going missing?
I wonder what your advertisers would think if they discovered that your circulation is not what it seems to be.
I’m writing this because I respect our postal workers (who are taking heat through no fault of their own), but also because I worry that this critical system seems to be broken, and sooner or later we’ll all come to regret allowing that to happen.
Brian Bell Birch BayThe Editor:
In response to all the letters to the editor over the past two months from the stalwart
and courageous citizens of Bellingham, who continue every week to remind us, the ordinary and humble peoples of Blaine, how to make the right choice at the ballot box in November; thank you.
As I prepared to write this note, it dawned on me that we owe thanks for so much more than just helping us to know what the correct answer is, you also ensured we understand why.
Thank you for helping us to understand which lives matter most, appropriately acknowledge whose land we occupy, better and more compassionately understand what a woman is, know when, why, and how to wear masks, and which views are acceptable to protest.
You also taught us who to #Believe, who to #Resist, dutifully informed us when the science had changed, educated us on the need to improve the not inclusive enough pride flag, and stressed the moral imperative to
(See Letters, page 13)
THE CITY OF BLAINE is currently seeking members for the following commission:
Civil Service Commission
Regularly meets one Tuesday of the month for about an hour.
One position to fill a partial term ending December 31, 2025
One position to fill a full term ending December 31, 2028
If you are interested in serving on the Civil Service Commission, applications and descriptions of duties are available online at www.cityofblaine.com.
CITY OF BLAINE
Information
Monday, October 24 4:00pm – Study Session: Public Works Department Budget 5:15pm – Study Session: BTAC Interviews 6:00pm – City Council Meeting
Tuesday, October 25 3:30pm – Civil Service Commission Meeting *CANCELLED*
Thursday, November 10 9:00am – Parks and Cemetery Board Meeting 10:30am – Public Works Advisory Meeting 6:00pm – Planning Commission Meeting
CITY OF BLAINE NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING BLAINE CITY COUNCIL
Notice is hereby given that a public hearing for the 2023 revenue sources and proposed Property Tax Levy is scheduled for Monday, October 24, 2022, at 6:00pm. The meeting will be held in-person and virtually. Information on how to attend the City Council meeting virtually will be included on the agenda. City Council meeting agendas are published the Friday before the City Council meeting.
If you do not want to give testimony during the public hearing, please email your testimony to CityCouncil@cityofblaine.com. Please note that emails and letters sent to the entire Council are public record and they will be included on the City Council meeting agenda. All City Council meeting recordings are on the City’s website.
Anyone wishing to attend and participate who may need special accommodation to do so should contact the City Clerk’s office no later than seventy-two hours (72) hours prior to the scheduled meeting.
For further information on the 2023 budget, please contact the Finance Department, 360-332-8311.
for supporting local journalism.
Thank
This week’s supporters:
Family • Peggy and
Hastings
State representative candidates Q&A for November general election
B y G race M c c art H y
The Northern Light asked candidates running for 42nd Legislative District position 1 and 2 seats about their top priorities, if elected to the state House of Representatives, and what makes them fit to represent north Whatcom County residents in the state Legislature. The November 8 general election candidates provided written responses to the questions.
State representative position 1 Alicia Rule
What are your top three priorities for Blaine, Birch Bay, Custer and Point Roberts if elected? How will you work to ensure those priorities are met?
1: Fight for economic oppor tunity for everyone and support working families by increasing the number of family wage jobs, ensuring strong wages and pro tecting jobs at our local refiner ies. I will work to reopen Intalco and support our local business es. Everyone deserves a shot at a good paying job, whether you go to college or not.
2: Support law enforcement and improve public safety while building a robust mental health and addiction recovery system that saves lives and keeps people off the streets. Continue to improve the child welfare system and keep children and families safe.
3: Continue to bring our tax dollars home and put them to work in our communities, supporting infrastructure projects like making train crossings work better, fixing roads and bridges, and working with our military department to create a statewide disaster program so our state can respond with relief that is fast and effective for our local communities, including the unique needs of Point Roberts.
What makes you the best candidate for the position?
I am the current state representative for our district. I have previously served on the Blaine City Council and as the president of the Blaine Downtown Alliance. I live in Blaine as your neighbor. I own a mental health practice and have worked as a social worker as my career. I earned my bachelor’s degree from the University of Washington and my masters in social work from San Diego State University.
Ballots ...
From page 1
Larsen running against Dan Matthews.
• Secretary of State – Julie Anderson is challenging incumbent Steve Hobbs.
• 42nd Legislative District state Senator – Sharon Shewmake is challenging appointed incumbent Simon Sefzik.
• 42nd Legislative District state representative position 1 –Incumbent Alicia Rule running against Tawsha (Dykstra) Thompson.
• 42nd Legislative District state
I have earned the endorsement of organized labor, business, law enforcement, teachers and nurses, including the sole endorsement of the Washington Fraternal Order of Police, Washington State Labor Council, Association of Washington Business, and Planned Parenthood.
What else do you want people to know about your campaign?
I genuinely and passionately care about the community that has been home to my family for five generations and I am invested in ensuring this can continue to be a home for our children and grandchildren.
Tawsha (Dykstra) Thompson
What are your top three priorities for Blaine, Birch Bay, Custer and Point Roberts if elected? How will you work to ensure those priorities are met?
1: Public safety: Blaine, as a municipality, has its own police department but Custer, Birch Bay, and Point Roberts all receive public safety services through the Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office. Staffing shortages impact those hard to reach areas, such as Point Roberts. We need to ensure that laws negatively impacting law enforcement are repealed and legislature empowering our officers is enacted to assist with recruiting good people to become law enforcement officers in Washington.
2: Internet and broadband services: There has been progress made in these areas but we need to continue working toward good internet and broadband service to unincorporated areas of Whatcom County.
3: Infrastructure: Both Birch Bay and Point Roberts have experienced flooding issues. Better planning and development is needed to protect those communities.
What makes you the best candidate for the position?
As a 25-year veteran of law enforcement I have the training, skills and expertise to tackle the public safety legislation that needs to be repealed and amended to bring the skyrocketing crime problem back down to earth. I am endorsed by sheriff Bill Elfo, Whatcom County prosecutor Dave McEachran (retired) and many more.
What else do you want people to know about your campaign?
My entire professional career has been as a public servant
representative position 2 – Joe Timmons running against Dan Johnson.
• Washington Supreme Court – Mary I. Yu, Barbara Madsen and G Helen Whitener run unopposed for justice positions 1, 5 and 6.
• Whatcom County Prosecuting Attorney – Incumbent Eric Richey runs unopposed.
• Whatcom County District Court judge position 1 –Incumbent Angela Anderson runs unopposed.
• Whatcom County District Court judge position 2 – Jonathan Rands and Gordon M. Jenkins run against each other.
and professional problem solver. I commit to working collaboratively with everyone from both sides of the aisle to complete our common goals. As your state representative I will continue to serve all the people of the 42nd district to the best of my ability.
State representative position 2 Dan Johnson
What are your top three priorities for Blaine, Birch Bay, Custer and Point Roberts if elected? How will you work to ensure those priorities are met?
1: Public safety: As a starting point, I think that Birch Bay has grown to the point where a local police department is warranted. This added degree of law enforcement along with better state laws on crime would be a huge win for that community.
2: Public services & infrastruc ture: As people move into the area it has been hard for these small er communities to keep up with basic services like water, sewer, power, internet, etc. I would fight for funding from the state level to build the necessary services to keep up with the housing and business demands.
3: Isolation: From 2020 until just a few weeks ago, Point Roberts has been isolated. This unique community spent over two years unable to connect to the rest of the country. Along with the abovementioned issues, the residents of Point Roberts are dependent on being able to travel freely across an international border and for the last few years that has been denied. Moving forward, I will do better for that community.
What makes you the best candidate for the position?
Other than my service as a Marine, I have always been in the private sector. I owned a small business and understood what it’s like to sign the front and back of a paycheck. I also know that when ends don’t meet you tighten your belt, not raise taxes. I will take that approach in Olympia.
What else do you want people to know about your campaign?
I have lived in Whatcom County since 1980 except for when I was serving as a U.S. Marine. I went to school here, I have owned small businesses here and I raised my family here. Whatcom County is where I want to stay. Whatcom County is
• Public Utility District No. 1 commissioner district 3 – Jaime Arnett running against Eric Davidson.
Voter registration forms that are mailed or completed online must be received by Monday, October 31, according to the voter pamphlet. After October 31, visit an elections office or voting center during regular business hours or until 8 p.m. on Election Day to register to vote or update your registration and receive a ballot.
Registered voters should contact the auditor’s office if they haven’t received a ballot by Wednesday, October 26.
State representative position 1 candidates
State representative position 2 candidates
worth fighting for. Thank you.
Joe TimmonsWhat are your top three priorities for Blaine, Birch Bay, Custer and Point Roberts if elected? How will you work to ensure those priorities are met?
Economic development. The pandemic was hard on businesses in Whatcom County, especially in communities closest to the border. Through my job in the Governor’s Office I helped provide funding for the grocery store in Point Roberts, make the case for reopening the border, and establish the state’s Border Business Relief Fund, a grant program that assisted more than 100 businesses and organizations in Whatcom County. Based on conversations I’ve had with residents, I’d also like to help increase access to broadband internet and housing. I have a track record of getting things done in Olympia and bringing resources to Whatcom County, and I will continue that as your state representative.
What makes you the best candidate for the position?
I have spent the past decade working at the local, state, and
Voters have less than a month after receiving their ballots to return them by mail or to one of 21 ballot drop boxes in the county. No stamp is needed for ballots returned by mail and ballots must be postmarked by Tuesday, November 8.
The nearest drop boxes for Blaine, Birch Bay and Custer residents are Blaine Library, 610 3rd Street; North Whatcom Fire and Rescue, 4581 Birch Bay-Lynden Road; and Custer Elementary School, 7660 Custer School Road. Drop boxes close at 8 p.m. on November 8.
The auditor’s office is open to in-person visits from 8:30
federal levels of government –including the past eight years working directly with leaders in Olympia. I am running for this position because I love Whatcom County and I am confident I have the experience to hit the ground running on behalf of our community. I am the only candidate that has dedicated their career to public service and I have a proven track record of working with both parties. Whatcom County deserves a representative that is committed to listening to the needs of everyone in the county and working hard on their behalf. If elected I will do just that.
What else do you want people to know about your campaign?
I grew up in a working class household in Washington state. Before a career in public service I worked as a preschool teacher, at restaurants and in retail. My wife Heather grew up in Whatcom County, and we are proud to have set down roots here and to be raising a family here. I was thrilled to receive the most votes in the primary election and our campaign is working hard every day to win in November.
a.m. to 4:30 p.m. October 19 to Monday, November 7 and from 8:30 a.m. to 8 p.m. on Election Day. Although the office accepts walk-ins, people are asked to call or email ahead.
Whatcom County Auditor’s Office is in suite 103 in the Whatcom County Courthouse, 311 Grand Avenue. To contact the auditor’s office, call 360/7885102 or email elections@ co.whatcom.wa.us.
More information including ballot processing webcams, the voter pamphlet and voter guide are available on the county auditor’s website at bit. ly/3MGQX3T.
Sports roundup: Borderites win
B y I an H auptBlaine picked up its first win of the season October 14 on the road against Bellingham High School. The Borderites beat the Bayhawks 44-18 in their homecoming game at Civic Field.
Coming into the game with a 0-6 record and on the back of a 34-20 loss to the Meridian Trojans, Blaine was showing progress since the beginning of the season but had yet to win. On Friday night, the team made it happen through a strong rushing and passing performance.
Head coach Jay Dodd said it was a well-deserved victory, and that he was excited for his boys.
“We’re a young team that’s still learning how to win,” he said.
Facing a couple of blowout losses this season, Dodd has stayed composed on the sideline and focused on helping his players improve play-by-play. He said it’s not easy, but he’s learned how to take defeats through his years of coaching.
“Whether you like [the score on the scoreboard] or not you have to continue to get better and keeping the mindset of the team striving to get better,” he said.
His players demonstrate why. Senior quarterback Kael Evinger completed 17-of-26 passes for a total of 245 yards against the Bellingham defense.
Blaine became the first Whatcom County team this season to have a pair of wide receivers tally over
100 yards in the same game.
Junior wide receivers Hunter Vezzetti and Riley Ihde finished with 131 yards and 104 yards.
Sophomore Colby Shipp also had a game-high 121 yards rushing on 27 carries with two touchdowns.
Bellingham came into the game with a 2-4 record.
Blaine has three more games this season. The team will host Lynden Christian Friday, October 21 for senior night and a return to conference play. Then travel to Nooksack Valley Friday, October 28 and host Cedar Park Christian Friday, November 4. All games are at 7 p.m.
The Borderites have a 1-6 overall record this season. They are 0-2 in conference.
Statistics thanks to whatcom preps.com.
Girls soccer
Blaine girls soccer tied Meridian 1-1 at home October 13 and lost 9-1 at Lynden Christian October 17.
The Lady Borderites travel to Mount Baker Monday, October 24 to play at 6 p.m. for their last regular season game. They are 4-6-1 this season and 3-2-1 in conference.
Volleyball
The Lady Borderites lost to Squalicum 3-1 on the road October 12 and then lost at home to Meridian in a narrow 3-2 match on youth volleyball night. Blaine youth athletes were given free entry to the game as long as they wore their team t-shirts.
The girls will travel to Mount Baker Thursday, October 20. They host Burlington-Edison Tuesday, October 25 for senior night and then travel to Mount
Vernon Thursday, October 27. All matches are at 7 p.m. They are 1-11 this season.
Swimming Blaine’s co-op team with
Ferndale will compete next at Arne Hannah Aquatic Center in Bellingham Tuesday, October 25. The team’s schedule can be found at bit.ly/3U5exL8.
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What’s the difference between pre-qualification and pre-approval for a loan?
The main difference is the documentation required by the bank. Pre-qualification is a non-documented process where we ask about your financial status, such as your last two years of employment, residen cy, annual income, and general banking information. We use this to produce an approval letter which shows sellers that you are a serious buyer. When you have an accepted offer, we’ll request the documents required to close the loan. For pre-approval, we’ll gather the required documents up front to obtain loan approval before you even start looking for a home.
Wiebusch
A:
Q: Can I deduct a charitable contribution in 2022 without itemizing?
A: Unfortunately, the temporary rule letting taxpayers deduct $600 for married filing jointly or $300 for single taxpayer of charitable contributions without itemizing has not been continued in 2022. In 2022 the standard itemization has been raised to $12,950 for single taxpayers and $25,900 for individuals filing jointly. If you are making charitable contributions, there are ways to contribute strategically in order to possibly lower your taxes. Some strategies include bunching charitable contributions, using a donor advised fund, or making a Qualified Charitable Distribution. Qualified Charitable Distributions from an IRA account can begin before Required Minimum Distribution age at 70.5. Contact your tax advisor or a Certified Financial Professional™ to help maximize your gifting strategy. Skyline Advisors is able to help with your individual gifting strategies.
Q: I have been reading a lot about IV Infusion Therapy. Can you tell me the benefits?
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Jordan Crim, DPT, Cert. MDT Physical TherapistQ: I’ve never bought a house. What do I need to know?
A: Despite interest rates being up, they are at a historically low rate. Inventory is finally picking up. Price reductions, and contingent sales are becoming more common again. If you are interested in buying real estate for the first time, now is the time to start preparing. There are many things to consider and know about the home buying process, including your personal and financial goals, budget, financing options, down payments, closing costs, personal preferences, inspections, appraisal, closing process, contracts, negotiations, and more. As an ABR (Accredited Buyer’s Representative), we always look forward to educating and working with new or experienced buyers. Call, email, or stop by our office to start the conversation.
Q: I’m planning on having surgery. Could I benefit from physical therapy prior to surgery?
A: Many patients plan on physical therapy after having surgery but don’t realize that therapy prior to surgery can help improve their outcomes and speed of recovery. While waiting for their procedure, patients can be guided to improve their strength and mobility of the affected area as well as gain an understanding of what to expect immediately after surgery. If you have an upcoming surgery, talk to your surgeon about the possibility of physical therapy prior to your operation. Capstone Physical Therapy is conveniently located at seven locations throughout Whatcom County and is accepting new patients at our Birch Bay Square location and our Blaine clinic on H Street.
8125 Birch Bay Square, Suite 248 Blaine WA 98230 360-366-5511
Blaine Cordata Lynden Ferndale Barkley
From
inflation.
What is your take on bringing public restrooms to Birch Bay?
It’s a big part of this plan for Birch Bay Beach Park and that is certainly one of the things in the first phase that we want to get to, in addition to parking. I’m trying to look holistically, take a step back and think about how the parks we have in this area connect.
Where have you visited in Whatcom County since starting the position?
I’ve been all over. The only place I haven’t been yet is Sumas. I’ve been to Everson, Blaine, Birch Bay, Point Roberts, Lynden, Nooksack and Lake Whatcom. I still have a lot to see but I’ve probably hit about 60 percent.
How do you plan on meeting the needs of the remote areas and rural communities?
My background in Louisville was trying to pay attention to communities in need, marginalized communities. Part
of my goal is to learn what the needs are. We’re fortunate that there’s been a lot of planning done here related to health equity. There’s a lot of needs related to different parks and how they might connect with trails.
We need to take a look at some of our park needs assessments that we’ve done and reinvigorate those. One of my main priorities for the next year is updating the comprehensive parks, recreation and open space plan. There’s a need to get additional public input. Part of that, for me, is going to be looking at the communities in outlying areas, what their needs are, how we can serve them and incorporate at least recommendations into the plan.
What interested you in this field?
I grew up on a farm so I always had an interest in the outdoors and nature. It’s part of my makeup to want to elevate folks who may not have the same opportunities. I love to look at opportunities where we can help folks who, whether it be youth, seniors or folks who may not have the best
access to parks, gain that access. The intersection of nature and trying to help people live a better life.
Are there any upcoming projects or events that we should keep an eye on?
We’ve been doing a lot of work at Silver Lake improving campgrounds, we have active projects to complete some of the shower facilities and move toward an additional facility in the next year. That’s one of the bigger projects that we have and it’s probably one that’s moving forward the most. We have a project at the Plantation Rifle Range to get the indoor range open again. There’s a project there related to the issues of lead contamination, so there will be some public outreach coming up about that. We’ve got a trail connection, EH1, near the Hertz Trail in Lake Whatcom Park. That trail segment will be completed by next year.
What steps do you plan to take to address outdoor recreation’s impact on the environment, such as waste issues, erosion, etc.?
I’m not able to give specifics
right now but my background is in resource management. That’s one of the reasons I’m really interested in this job. Finding the balance between approved recreation uses and those impacts on the environment is of critical importance. I know that’s important to the community, especially when we’re talking about activities in the area around any of the lakes and the Nooksack River.
The aquatic resources here are of such importance, culturally and from an economic standpoint, aside from the need to protect the environment. I am eager to find ways that parks can improve our management to be compatible with some of the larger plans as they relate to the impacts of climate change and flooding.
When you’re not working, what types of activities do you like to do?
I play guitar, I love to cook, I love foreign languages – I studied Russian and teach myself Chinese. I like to get outdoors. Before I get too old and can’t do it, I want to learn how to mountain
bike, take sailing lessons possibly, and I’m very interested in fishing and hiking.
Can you provide an update on the Bellingham Bay to Baker trail? What sort of progress would you like to see made on the project as parks director?
I can’t really speak too much to that right now. I’m still trying to get a sense of all of our different trail systems and their planning. I haven’t had too many meetings on the Bay to Baker trail just yet, but I’m hoping to turn to that.
Is there anything else you would like to add?
I’m eager to work with the community. It’s important for the community to realize how powerful they are. Depending on how they approach agencies, and vice versa, we can all swim in the same direction. Coming to the table with positive ideas and a collaborative mindset is really what’s going to make the difference. I’m excited about Birch Bay. I recognize that there are some great community leaders who’ve been doing a lot of great work for a number of years, trying to push things forward.
Pets & Pet Care
How to tell if your pet is in pain; Pet Paparazzi from readers
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Behavioral changes
Pets may exhibit behavioral changes that indicate they’re in pain.
• Avoiding petting or other touch.
• Excessive licking or biting of areas of the body.
• Vocalization that goes beyond the norm, such as more barking, meowing or chirping.
• Restlessness, which may include not being able to find a comfortable position when lying down.
• Being less affectionate to owners, shyness or even exhibiting aggression that is not typical of the animal.
Physical changes
Physical changes may give clues that a pet is in pain. Here are a few signs.
• Shaking or trembling of the body.
• Arching the back or curling up
into a ball.
• Holding the head below the shoulders.
• Twitching muscles or seeing that the pet is tense and the muscles are tight.
• Some pets who are in pain will pant a lot.
Mobility issues
Some pain is most evident when pets exhibit issues with their mobility.
• Walking slower or refusing to walk at all.
• Inability or reluctance to jump
up on furniture or use stairs.
• Failure to lie down or difficulty getting up.
• Limping or shuffling of the feet. Certain animals may refuse to eat, while others may exhibit noticeable changes in eye brightness if they are in pain. Elevated heart rate also may indicate a pet is in pain.
Pet owners are urged to visit a vet if their pet is behaving abnormally, as various behaviors may indicate a pet is in pain.
Help Wanted
IN THE SUPERIOR COURT OF THE STATE OF WASHINGTON IN AND FOR WHATCOM COUNTY In re the Estate of: VICTOR BURTON BLIVEN, Deceased. No. 22-4-00939-37. NOTICE TO CRED ITORS. Judge Evan P. Jones
EXPERIENCED SEAMSTRESS Earn $18-32 an
and
Auctions
AUCTION NOTICE
Phone 360-312
The Personal Representative named below has been appointed and has qualified as Personal Representative of this estate. Any person having a claim against the dece dent must, before the time the claim would be barred by any otherwise applicable stat ute of limitations, present the claim in the manner as provided in RCW 11.40.070 by serving on or mailing to the Personal Rep resentative or the Personal Representa tive’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.
PUBLIC HEARING NOTICE
The Whatcom County Council will hold a public hearing, consid er adopting, and may amend the following at its 6 p.m. meeting on October 25, 2022, or at a later date: ORDINANCE APPROVING A SYSTEM OF RATES AND CHARGES FOR THE WHATCOM CONSERVATION DISTRICT (AB2022-529)
The Whatcom County Council has received a proposal from the What com Conservation District to estab lish a system of rates and charges to fund District activities and programs as authorized by chapter 89.08 RCW.
IN THE SUPERIOR COURT OF THE STATE OF WASHINGTON IN AND FOR WHAT COM COUNTY In re the Estate of: JOHN FREDERICK HARRIMAN, Deceased. No. 22-4-00933-37.
NOTICE TO CREDI TORS. Judge David E. Freeman
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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: September 29, 2022 with Clerk of Court: Date of First Publication: October 6, 2022
Name of Personal Representative: WILLIAM BLIVEN 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: September 29, 2022.
AVERY ELDER LAW, P.S. STEVEN D. AVERY, WSBA #35262 Attorney for Personal Representative: WILLIAM BLIVEN
IN THE SUPERIOR COURT OF THE STATE OF WASHINGTON IN AND FOR WHATCOM COUNTY In re the Estate of: STEVEN WALTER RAUCH (AKA STEVE WALTER RAUCH), Deceased. No. 224-01007-37.
NOTICE TO CREDITORS.
Judge David E. Freeman
The District’s proposal states that revenue collected from the rates and charges will allow the District to: ex ercise its authority, including the con tinued protection of the public health, safety and welfare and protection and conservation of natural resourc es throughout Whatcom County; ob tain grant funding and support local conservation programs; address water quality and conservation pro grams related to endangered salmon species; provide for other natural re source protection requirements and needs, such as the protection and conservation of farm land.
If approved, the proposed system of rates and charges pursuant to RCW 89.08.405 will apply to all proper ties located in unincorporated and incorporated Whatcom County (with limited exception – please see RCW 89.08.405 for detailed information on rates and charges) for a period of ten years, beginning collection in January 2023 through 2032, as follows: residential - $5 per parcel; commercial - $4.99 per parcel; open space - $5 per parcel; institutional/ public - $5 per parcel; agriculture$5 per parcel; designated forest land - $2.99 per owner; vacant/undevel oped - $5 per parcel.
The Personal Representative named below has been appointed and has qualified as Personal Representative of this estate. Any person having a claim against the dece dent must, before the time the claim would be barred by any otherwise applicable stat ute of limitations, present the claim in the manner as provided in RCW 11.40.070 by serving on or mailing to the Personal Rep resentative or the Personal Representa tive’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: September 27, 2022 with Clerk of Court: Date of First Publication: October 6, 2022
Name of Personal Representative: SETH FLEETWOOD
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: September 27, 2022.
AVERY ELDER LAW, P.S. STEVEN D. AVERY, WSBA #35262
Attorney for Personal Representative: SETH FLEETWOOD
PUBLIC NOTICE
Tin Rock Development, Blair Murray, 1708 F St Bellingham, WA 98225-3108, is seeking coverage under the Washington State Department of Ecology’s Construc tion Stormwater NPDES and State Waste Discharge General Permit. The proposed project, Lincoln Mews, is located at SW Corner H St and Odell Road in Blaine in Whatcom county. This project involves 4.5 acres of soil disturbance for Residential, Utilities construction activities. The receiv ing waterbody is Cain 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, Construc tion Stormwater, Washington State Depart ment of Ecology, P.O. Box 47696, Olympia, WA 98504-7696
The Administrator named below has been appointed and has qualified as Adminis trator 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 lim itations, 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 fil ing the original of the claim with the court in which the probated proceedings were commenced. The claim must be present ed within the later of: (1) thirty days after the Administrator served or mailed the no tice 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: October 17, 2022 with Clerk of Court:
Date of First Publication: October 20, 2022
Name of Administrator: STEVEN RAUCH 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: October 17, 2022
AVERY ELDER LAW, P.S. STEVEN D. AVERY, WSBA #35262 Attorney for Administrator: STEVEN RAUCH
Detailed information on the Dis trict’s proposal is available for re view weekdays from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. in the County Council Office, 311 Grand Avenue, Suite 105, Bellingham, and at whatcom county.us/council (specifically here).
View meeting schedules, agendas, minutes, videos, documents and ar chives at whatcom.legistar.com. The Council is currently holding hybrid meetings, which can be attended ei ther in person or remotely. Full Coun cil meetings begin at 6 p.m. (unless otherwise announced) in the Council Chambers at 311 Grand Avenue. In structions for remote participation can be found at whatcomcounty.us/ joinvirtualcouncil or by contacting the Council Office at 360-778-5010. The Council Chambers is handicapped accessible. People with special needs who will be attending Council meetings are asked to contact the Council Office (360-778-5010) at least 96 hours in advance.
Bay Properties
8739 Oertel Drive, Birch Point $2,250,000
BEACHFRONT DREAM PROPERTY!
Enjoy 125’ of easy & direct beach access. This Cape Cod style home sits in front of the neighboring properties & offers uncompromised 180 degree views of the Strait of Georgia, Semiahmoo Bay, White Rock, & the Canadian Coastal Range - sunsets are awe inspiring! Crab, fish, kayak off your own private beach! Gourmet style kitchen w/ Granite, SS appliances, 2 splits for AC & Heat, 2 car garage, paver driveway/walks/patio, sprinkler system, auto start generator
CeCelia Breivik • (360) 303-8161
Sweetest of opportunities!
ON LENA ROAD
All real estate/rentals advertising in this news paper is subject to the Federal Fair Housing Act of 1968 as amended, which makes it illegal to advertise any preference, limitation or discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, handicap familial status or national origin, or an intention to make any such preference, limitation or discrim ination. This newspaper will not knowingly accept any advertisement for real estate which is in violation of the law. Our readers are hereby informed that all dwellings ad vertised in this newspaper are available on an equal opportunity basis. To complain of discrimination, call HUD toll-free at 1-800877-0246.
All real estate/rentals advertising in this newspaper is subject to the Federal Fair Housing Act of 1968 as amended, which makes it illegal to advertise any preference, limitation or discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, handicap, familial status or national origin, or an intention to make any such preference, limitation or discrimination. This newspaper will not knowingly accept any advertisement for real estate which is in olation of the law. Our readers are hereby formed that all dwellings advertised in this newspaper are available on an equal opportunity basis. To complain of discrimination, call HUD toll-free at 1-800-877-0246.
From
defund the police. The stakes for our democracy have never been higher. Blaine desperately seeks, and is appreciative of, your wisdom and leadership. Again, thank you.
Frank J. Parenti Birch BayThe Editor:
In the past few weeks there have been letters to the editor in The Northern Light that were offensive to many. Everyone is entitled to an opinion, but generally stating that MAGA people should be feared, to me, is unnecessary and creates a feeling of mistrust.
Republicans want fiscal re sponsibility. Many are concerned that the Democratic party is lead ing us into a recession. Food, gas, childcare, housing and heating expenses will likely rise as win ter approaches. Local and federal governments should show re straint when taking from the pro ductivity of its citizens.
Republicans want law and order. Crime rates are rising, and the Democratic party has limited the ability for police protection and pursuit in Washington state. Republicans are concerned that the lack of respect and appreciation for our brave police force is fostering chaos. The summer of 2020 is a reminder of the defund police movement, which has made our lives less safe.
Republicans believe that education should focus on academics rather than perceived social justice issues. Leave the latter up to the parents. We pay tax dollars expecting quality schools and deserve transparency.
A letter writer stated in the Oc tober 13-19 issue of The Northern Light, “MAGA Republicans cre ate mass hysteria vilifying immi grants.” That is a false statement.
Republicans want legal immi gration. My daughter-in-law is a South American legal immigrant. She is now a teacher. We are proud of her accomplishments. She loves the United States and feels the existing situation at the southern border is a disaster.
If you want leaders who will represent the people of the state of Washington in Olympia and Washington, D.C., vote for Simon Sefzik, Tawsha Dykstra Thompson, Dan Johnson, Dan Matthews and Tiffany Smiley as they will contribute to effecting the desired and necessary changes for the people of Washington state.
Susan Werner BlaineDESCRIPTION LOCATION SALE PRICE SEPTEMBER 2022
END HOUSES: $800,000 & ABOVE: Condo with 2,552 SF, 3 BD, 2 BA, attached garage, built in 1989.
2-story house with 1,658 SF, 3 BD, 2 BA, 594 SF detached garage, 192 SF detached garage, 312 SF patio, 705 SF deck, built in 1910, 5.10 acres wooded land.
1-and a half story house with 1,144 SF, 2 BD, 2 BA, 120 SF storage, 216 SF deck, built in 1973, 70 feet waterfront; marine and territorial views, 2.41 acres land.
2-story house with 2,987 SF, 3 BD, 3 BA, 473 SF built-in garage, 377 SF patio, built in 2016, waterfront; marine and territorial views,
2-story house with 3,160 SF, 3 BD, 4 BA, 500 SF attached garage, 481 SF patio, 1,331 SF balcony, built in 1979, waterfront; marine and territorial views, .28 acres land.
1-story house with 2,148 SF, 4 BD, 2 BA, 588 SF attached garage, 208 SF patio, built in 2017, .25 acres land.
2-story house with 3,613 SF, 4 BD, 4 BA, 792 SF attached garage, 664 SF deck, built in 2004, waterfront; marine and territorial views, .63 acres land.
1-story house with 632 SF, 2 BD, 1 BA, 388 SF patio, built in 1942, 44 feet waterfront; marine views, 07 acres land.
1-story house with 2,224 SF, 3 BD, 3 BA, 714 SF attached garage, 275 SF patio, 2,016 SF shop, built 2009, 5.00 acres land.
1-story house with 2,627 SF, 2 BD, 3 BA, den, 816 SF attached garage, 270 SF patio, built in 2019, .45 acres land.
2-story house with 3,188 SF, 5 BD, 3 BA, 720 SF attached garage, 244 SF porch, built in 2017, .20 acres land.
COMMERCIAL PROPERTIES: Warehouse/office with 60,075 SF, 3,005 SF stor age mezzanine, built in 2007, 4.50 acres land.
Store with 2,000 SF, 2,000 SF basement, built in 1910, .09 acres land.
2-story duplex with 2,844 SF, 840 SF attached garage, 216 SF patio, built in 2019, .17 acres land.
Unit # 14M, St. Andrews Cottages Condominium, 5660 Sanderling Way, Blaine
101 Goodman Road, Point Roberts
8703 Oertel Drive, Blaine
Unit #38, Se miahmoo Shore Condominium, 9454 Turnstone Lane, Blaine
5367 Nootka Loop, Blaine
8149 Quinault Road, Blaine
8463 Pointe Road North, Blaine
7551 Birch Bay Drive, Blaine
1982 Camber Lane, Blaine
5439 Wood Duck Loop, Blaine
6929 Ocean Mist Drive, Blaine
2025 Sweet Road, Blaine
625 Peace Portal Drive, Blaine
231 Ninth Street, Blaine
$839,650 $925,000 $800,000 $1,442,000 $800,000 $825,000 $2,142,000 $849,000 $829,000 $1,100,000 $820,000 $7,300,000 $350,000
$750,00
Gladys Croft
September 29, 1931 – October 5, 2022
Gladys peacefully passed away on October 5, 2022, at the age of 91.
Gladys was born September 29, 1931 to par ents Leif and Emma Harrang in Vancouver, BC. After finishing high school, Gladys went to beauty school and opened a shop in White Rock.
She met her future husband, Dean Croft, on an outing with friends to Blaine. They were married July 30, 1954. Along with Dean came three children from his first marriage. Gladys and Dean adopted daughter Tami in July, 1963.
Gladys worked for the Dohner’s beauty salon for a few years before retiring from the beauty business.
Wanting to work and stay at home with Tami, Gladys started an upholstery business our of their garage. It would become Busy Bee’s Upholstery and was successful for the next 50 years. She loved her customers, and her customers loved her.
Gladys was preceded in death by her parents; her beloved hus band Dean Croft; mother-in-law Ada Croft; stepson Steve Croft; and close cousin Jayne Schumann Becraft. Gladys is survived by her daughter Tami; daughter-in-law Dorice Croft; granddaughter Shannon Maxwell (Mike); great-grandchildren Ben and Julia; “ad opted” daughters Rita Pollard and Stacy Creech; and beloved ser vice dog Cheyenne.
A memorial service will be held on Saturday, October 22, at 1 p.m., at Grace Lutheran Church, 702 G Street, Blaine. Memori als for a park bench in her name may be made c/o Tami CroftHarrang, PO Box 297, Blaine, WA 98231.
Please share your thoughts and memories of Gladys online at sigsfuneralservices.com.
sheriff’s repOrts
Oct. 7, 10:27 p.m.: Traffic haz ard on Blaine and Drayton Harbor roads.
Oct. 7, 11:38 p.m.: Motor vehi cle accident on Bay Road.
Oct. 8, 1:02 a.m.: Mental on Crest Drive.
Oct. 8, 2:39 a.m.: Noise on H Street.
Oct. 8, 3:25 p.m.: Suspicious vehicle on Bay Road.
Oct. 8, 3:32 p.m.: Shots on Creasey Road, Custer.
Oct. 8, 5:49 p.m.: Fight on Birch Bay-Lynden Road, Custer.
Oct. 8, 9:44 p.m.: Noise on Hen ley Street.
Oct. 9, 12:50 a.m.: Trespass on Gulf Road.
Oct. 9, 5:15 a.m.: Behavioral health issue on Surf Place.
Oct. 9, 12:43 p.m.: Juvenile problem on Castlerock Drive.
Oct. 9, 1:20 p.m.: Extra patrol on Arnie Road, Custer.
Oct. 10, 10:42 a.m.: Littering on Valley View and Birch Bay-Lynden roads.
Oct. 10, 1:49 p.m.: Burglary on Gemini Street.
Oct. 10, 6:13 p.m.: Domestic verbal on Halibut Drive.
Oct. 10, 8:42 p.m.: Suspicious person on Cowichan Road.
Oct. 10, 8:51 p.m.: Trespass on Sehome Road.
Oct. 10, 10:13 p.m.: Burglary on Bay Road.
Oct. 11, 11:04 a.m.: Harassment on Bay Road.
Oct. 11, 1:43 p.m.: Civil problem on Birch Bay Drive.
Oct. 11, 5:06 p.m.: Suspicious circumstances on Fir Street.
Oct. 11, 9:15 p.m.: Suspicious vehicle on Ramona Lane, Custer.
Oct. 12, 10:52 a.m.: DUI on Valley View Road, Custer. Suspect arrested.
Oct. 12, 1:07 p.m.: Suspicious person on Birch Bay Drive.
Oct. 12, 2 p.m.: Hit and run on Haida Way.
Oct. 12, 3:01 p.m.: Theft on Kispiox Road.
Oct. 12, 4:09 p.m.: Suspicious person on Birch Bay Drive.
Oct. 13, 6:26 p.m.: Vehicle theft on Parkland Drive.
Oct. 13, 7:15 p.m.: Motor vehi cle accident on Birch Bay Square Street.
Oct. 13, 8:01 p.m.: Behavior al health issue on Arnie Road, Custer.
Oct. 14, 4:15 a.m.: Noise on Loomis Trail and Delta Line roads, Custer.
Oct. 14, 12:18 p.m.: Civil prob lem on West Road.
Oct. 14, 12:35 p.m.: Burglary on Elaine Street.
Oct. 14, 7:27 p.m.: Domestic order violation on Sunrise Road, Custer.
Oct. 14, 9:47 p.m.: Suspicious person on Harborview Road.
Oct. 15, 10:50 a.m.: Threat on Birch Bay Drive.
pOLiCe repOrts
Oct. 7, 2:17 p.m.:
mischief on H Street.
Oct. 7, 4 p.m.: Juvenile problem on Marine Drive.
Oct. 7, 8:55 p.m.: Hit and run collision on Bell Road.
Oct. 7, 11:09 p.m.: Stolen prop erty recovered on 3rd Street.
Oct. 8, 12:07 a.m.: Assist other agency outside city limits.
Oct. 9, 4:29 p.m.: First-degree theft on Canvasback Road.
Oct. 9, 6:28 p.m.: Malicious mis chief on Semiahmoo Parkway.
Oct. 9, 7:45 p.m.: Trouble with a person on Peace Portal Drive.
Oct. 10, 11:26 a.m.: Minor in
possession on H Street.
Oct. 10, 4:12 p.m.: Verbal do mestic dispute on H Street.
Oct. 11, 12:08 p.m.: Theft report on B Street.
Oct. 11, 9:49 p.m.: Commercial vehicle parking violation on Lud wick Avenue.
Oct. 11, 9:53 p.m.: Traffic stop on Peace Portal Drive.
Oct. 12, 3:49 p.m.: Suspicious person on H Street.
Oct. 12, 5:48 p.m.: Traffic stop on 6th Street.
Oct. 12, 7:07 p.m.: Domestic dispute, no assault, on Kingsley Avenue.
Report by Blaine Police Department.
ANSWERS:
tides
October 20-26 at Blaine. Not for navigation.
DATE TIME HEIGHT TIME HEIGHT
20 12:54 am 5.9 8:01 am
3:39 pm 8.8 10:06 pm
Fr 21 2:30 am 6.1 8:55 am 2.0 4:03 pm 8.9 10:26 pm
22 3:40 am 6.6 9:41 am
4:25 pm 8.9 10:50 pm
23 4:40 am 7.3 10:27 am 2.9 4:45 pm 9.0 11:20 pm 1.8
24 5:36 am 7.9 11:11 am
5:07 pm 9.0 11:50 pm 0.7
25 6:28 am 8.6 11:55 am
Coming up
Thanksgiving Baskets Registration: Friday, October 14–Friday, Novem ber 11. Free, ready-to-cook Thanksgiving dinners for those with limited financial resources living in Blaine, Birch Bay, Custer, and Point Roberts. Reservations required at blainecap.org or call 360/383-8027. Baskets will be available for pick-up on Tuesday, November 22, 12:00-2:30 p.m., in Blaine.
Northwest Avalanche Center Fundraiser: Thursday, October 20, 6–9 p.m., Boundary Bay Brewery, 1107 Railroad Avenue, Bellingham. Support avalanche awareness in the Pacific Northwest with great food, beer and lot of chances to win adventure gear and other great raffle prices. Benefits Northwest Avalanche Center. Sponsored by Mount Baker Experience. Info: mountbakerexperience.com.
Trivia at The Vault: Thursday, October 20, 7 p.m., 277 G Street. Thisweek’s theme: Music from the 1970s. Info: thevaultwine.com.
Blaine Community Theater Presents Wyrd Sisters: October 21-30, Blaine High School orange and black box theater. Wyrd Sisters is a loose adaptation of Shakespeare’s MacBeth from the witches’ point of view but also pokes fun at politics, theater, fairy tales and several other of Shake speare’s plays. Tickets: Blainecommunitytheater.com.
Music at The Vault: Friday, October 21, 7 p.m., 277 G Street. Featuring:Tea Seas Trio. Info: thevaultwine.com.
Whatcom County Parks Meet and Greets: Saturday, October 22, 2 p.m., Hovander Homestead Park group picnic shelter in Ferndale, Wednes day, November 2, 4 p.m., Point Roberts Community Center, Wednesday November 9, 6 p.m., Josh VanderYacht Memorial Park community hall in Van Zandt. The community is invited to meet Bennett Knox, new Whatcom County Parks and Recreation director.
Blaine Chamber Breakfast Meeting: Tuesday, October 25, 7:30–8:30 a.m., Blaine Boating Center, 225 Marine Drive. Speakers: Eric Zimpfer and Sal Paredes of BP Cherry Point Refinery. Breakfast provided by BP. RSVP required. Info: blainechamber.com.
Trivia at The Vault: Thursday, October 27, 7 p.m., 277 G Street. This week’s theme: Halloween. Costume contest and drink specials. Info: the vaultwine.com.
DSHS Mobile Community Services Office: Friday, October 28, 10 a.m.–2 p.m., Blaine Senior Center, 763 G Street. Apply for cash assistance, basic food assistance, medical assistance, and Medicare Savings Program. Drop off paperwork, complete an eligibility or mid-certification review or make changes to an existing case. Info: 360/332-8040.
Music at The Vault: Friday, October 28, 7 p.m., 277 G Street. Featuring:Michele D’Amour and The Love Dealers. Info: thevaultwine.com.
Trick or Treat on the Berm: Saturday, October 29, 3-6 p.m., along the Birch Bay berm promenade, Kids come trick or treat at different stops along the berm. Photo costume contest, treats and Halloween activities for the whole family at the Birch Bay Community Library, 7968 Birch Bay Drive. Sponsored by the Birch Bay Chamber of Commerce.
Trunk or Treat: Saturday, October 29, 5–7 p.m., The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, Blaine Ward, 2550 Thornton Road, Ferndale. Chili cook-off, kids carnival games and trick or treating. Info: 360/6033393.
Trick or Treat at St. Anne: Monday, October 31, 5-7 p.m., St. Anne Cath olic Church, corner of H and 6th streets. Treat bags and more for kids.
Community Toy Store Registration: November 1–27. Eligible families living within the Blaine School District boundaries who meet incoming guidelines for free or reduced lunch and who are not receiving gift assis tance from another source are eligible to shop in a store-like setting for new toys and gift cards at drastically reduced prices. Registration required at blainecap.org or if unable to register online, call 530/828-5195. Spon sored by the Blaine Community Assistance Program.
Community Toy Store Donations: November 1–December 2. The com munity Toy Store provides an opportunity for families with limited financial resources to purchase gifts for their children at drastically reduced prices. Donations of brand new toys ($20-50 price range), gift cards for teens, or buy through Launching Success and Amazon Wish Lists or monetary donations accepted at blainecap.org. Sponsored by Blaine Community Assistance Program.
Supper With the Superintendent: Wednesday, November 2, 6 p.m., Birch Bay Chamber of Commerce, 4819 Alderson Road, #103. The community is invited to ask questions and discuss school topics with Blaine School District superintendent, Dr. Christoper Granger. Light dinner provided.
Ongoing
The Bridge Clothing Bank Boutique: Open Wednesday–Saturday, 10 a.m.–6 p.m, The Bridge Community Hope Center, 4815 Alderson Road. Donations by appointment, call 360/366-8763.
Meals on Wheels Frozen Meals: Thursdays 11:30 a.m.–noon, Blaine Se nior Center, 763 G Street. Adults 60+ pick up five frozen meals. Suggested donation $5 per meal or whatever is affordable. First come, first servebasis. Info: 360/332-8040.
Meals on Wheels Hot Lunches: Mondays, Tuesdays and Thursdays, 11:30 a.m.–12:30 p.m., Blaine Senior Center, 763 G Street. Suggesteddonation of $5 per meal or whatever is affordable. First come, first serve basis. As of October 17 this will become five days a week. Info: 360/3328040.
Weather
Precipitation: During the period of October 10-16, no precipitation was record ed. The 2022 year-to-date precipitation is 20.2 inches.
Temperature: High for the past week was 72°F on October 16 with a low of 42°F on October 12. Average high was 57°F and average low was 52°F.
Courtesy Birch Bay Water & Sewer Dist.Friends of Blaine Library: Meets third Wednesdays, 6:30 p.m., Blaine Library, 610 3rd Street. Find out the latest library news at this monthly FOBL Board of Directors meeting. All members and guests are welcome to attend. Info: blainelibraryfriends.org.
Parents of Addicted Loved Ones (PAL) Meetings: Tuesdays 6:30–8 p.m., CAP Center, 508 G Street, Blaine. A support group for parents of adult children dealing with addiction, but open to anyone (18 or older) seeking to learn a better way to help an addicted love one. Evi dence-based, structured curriculum and peer support at no cost. Info: palgroup.org or email Bev and Dave at wamillards@comcast.net.
Alaska Packers Association Cannery Museum: Open Saturdays and Sundays, 1–5 p.m., 9261 Semiahmoo Parkway. Free, donations welcome.Info: 360/371-3558.
Birch Bay Book Club: Wednesday, October 19, 4 p.m., Birch Bay Vogt Library site, 7968 Birch Bay Drive. Book for October is Apples Never Fall by Liane Moriarty. Info: klia1@mac.com.
Submissions to Coming Up should be sent to calendar@thenorthernlight.com no later than noon on Monday.
2022 Better Newspaper Contest Awards
We are pleased to report that The Northern Light and our special publications received an unprecedented 45 awards at the Washington Newspaper Publishers Association’s 2022 Better Newspaper Contest. The entries, judged by out of state newspaper professionals, represents the best editorial, reporting and advertising published by Washington’s weekly newspapers in the past year. I am so proud of our outstanding editorial, design and sales teams. They continue to excel at delivering real news and designing ads that work. We also appreciate the quality work submitted by contributors. We’d like to recognize you, our readers, for your support and your engagement. Without you, we wouldn’t be here. Thank you. We make a good team.
Patrick Grubb, Publisher This year’s winning entries are...
Advertising
AD OF THE YEAR
FIRST PLACE Blaine by the Sea Ruth Lauman, Louise Mugar
Color Full Page
FIRST PLACE
Samson Estates Winery Ruth Lauman, Louise Mugar
Color Smaller than 1/2 page
FIRST PLACE Yeager’s Sporting Goods
Doug De Visser, Gary Lee
SECOND PLACE
Bargain Betty’s Fireworks Ruth Lauman, Molly Ernst
THIRD PLACE
The Railway Cafe
Doug De Visser, Ruth Lauman, Molly Ernst
Most Original Idea
SECOND PLACE Dank of America
Branding Ad
SECOND PLACE
Windermere Real Estate, DeBoer & Stremler Ruth Lauman, Louise Mugar
THIRD PLACE
Peace Arch Park International Sculpture Exhibition Ruth Lauman, Molly Ernst
Color Half Page or Larger
FIRST PLACE Baker Creek Place Ruth Lauman, Louise Mugar
SECOND PLACE Experience Coupeville Ruth Lauman, Louise Mugar
THIRD PLACE Adventure Terra Doug De Visser, Louise Mugar
Ad Campaign
FIRST PLACE Blaine By The Sea, Ruth Lauman, Louise Mugar
THIRD PLACE, Whole Pilates, Ruth Lauman, Molly Ernst
Business Feature Story
FIRST PLACE
Feek
Business News Story
SECOND
Comprehensive
SECOND
Doug De Visser, Ruth Lauman, Molly Ernst, Louise Mugar
Multiple Advertisers
SECOND PLACE
Advice from the Pros
Doug De Visser, Ruth Lauman, Molly Ernst, Louise Mugar
Newspaper House Ad
FIRST PLACE Waterside
Ruth Lauman, Louise Mugar
Single Advertiser 1/2 page or Larger
THIRD PLACE
Old Fashioned 4th of July Ruth Lauman, Molly Ernst
Single Advertiser, Smaller
FIRST PLACE
7 Elements
Doug De Visser, Molly Ernst
SECOND PLACE
Bay Properties
Ruth Lauman, Louise Mugar
Editorial FIRST PLACE
THIRD PLACE Canine Divine
Doug De Visser, Molly Ernst
Effective Use of Clip Art
THIRD PLACE
Bay Center Market
Ruth Lauman, Molly Ernst
Use of Small Space
THIRD PLACE
Discover Birch Bay Days
Doug De Visser, Molly Ernst
Youth Oriented Content
FIRST PLACE
Birch Bay Waterslides
Ruth Lauman, Molly Ernst
THIRD PLACE Pirate Daze
Doug De Visser, Molly Ernst
Video
THIRD PLACE Freeman’s Halloween Spooktacular, Ruth Lauman
Special Interest Website
FIRST PLACE
Pacific Coast Weddings
Alyniece McGee, Doug De Visser, Louise Mugar
Photography
General News Photo
FIRST PLACE Lummi carvers bring totem pole to Birch Bay, Chuck Kinzer
SECOND PLACE Blessing of the Fleet Richard Sturgill
THIRD PLACE Blaine students arrive for inperson classes Ian Haupt
Special Section Covers
FIRST PLACE Mount Baker Experience Summer 2021
Matthew Tangemen, Doug De Visser, Ian Haupt, Patrick Grubb, Louise Mugar
Environmental Story
Help save historic Icelandic landmark Margot Griffiths
SECOND PLACE
The local challenges of climate change
Harrell
THIRD PLACE
Nooksack River
Government Story
THIRD PLACE
Officials plead Biden for help with
Roberts Patrick Grubb
FIRST PLACE Planned revival of the North Cascades grizzly bear, Nick Belcaster
THIRD PLACE Mount Baker Experience Fall 2021
Grant Gunderson, Doug De Visser, Ian Haupt, Patrick Grubb, Louise Mugar
Newstory Short
FIRST PLACE Border reopening no magic pill Patrick Grubb
Personality Profile
FIRST PLACE
Getting off the beach Ian Haupt
Sports News Story
THIRD PLACE
Blaine boys basketball to bi-district playoff Ian Haupt, Janell Kortlever
Color Feature Photo
SECOND PLACE Runners race from Peace Arch Park Ian Haupt
Color Pictorial Photo
FIRST PLACE Home Farm U-Pick & Events Emily Feek
History Feature Story
FIRST PLACE Mount Baker Theatre celebrates 95 years, Georgia Costa
THIRD PLACE Railway Cafe celebrates caboose’s centennial Grace McCarthy
Border Patrol arrests 2 individuals who ran across border and their ride
B y I an H auptU.S. Border Patrol agents arrested three individuals October 12 around 3:30 p.m. just west of the railroad crossing at Marine Drive in Blaine. Two of the individuals allegedly illegally crossed the U.S./Canada border, while the other attempted to pick
Senate ...
From page 1
resilient economy and support small business recovery.
What makes you the best candidate for the position?
I’m the only economist in the legislature, and I deliver for Whatcom County with help for local jobs and with funding for schools, mental health and homeless facilities, roads, trails and bridges.
I pass bills and secure fund ing for local projects because I’m honest and I work well with others. The Salish Current fact checked a debate with my oppo nent and found only one of his answers to be “true.” Every single answer I said was true. That’s why I’m endorsed by nurses, teach ers, firefighters, prosecutor Eric Richey, teamsters, social workers, environmental groups, Tribes, affordable housing advocates, children’s groups, machinists, electricians, ironworkers, grocery
them up.
U.S. Customs and Border Protection Blaine sector spokesperson Jason Givens told The Northern Light two people were detected running south into the U.S. after illegally crossing the international boundary shortly after 3 p.m.
Border Patrol agents from the Blaine sector responded to the
eastern edge of Marine Park, beside the train tracks, and found two Mexican nationals attempting to conceal themselves, Givens said. Agents also arrested a third person who attempted to pick up the two individuals who had illegally crossed the border. The three individuals were detained while agents searched the vehicle with Idaho license plates.
your leaders hear from you, and I want you to be part of the conversation.
Simon Sefzik
What are your top three priorities for Blaine, Birch Bay, Custer and Point Roberts if elected? How will you work to ensure those priorities are met?
closures.
What makes you the best candidate for the position?
I’m the best person to represent Whatcom County in the state senate because I’m trusted by the people that you trust. As the only candidate endorsed by sheriff
affordable housing groups and business organizations. I’m the most experienced candidate to represent you in the Senate because I’ve already done it. Check my record and you’ll see: I’ve been advocating for you.
What else do you want people to know about your campaign?
s Sharon Shewmakeworkers, democracy watchdogs, Pro-choice Washington and so many more.
What else do you want people to know about your campaign?
It’s been an honor to serve you and I’m proud to run a grassroots, people-powered campaign. For more information please email me sharon@sharon4whatcom.com or go to www.sharon4whatcom. com. Democracy works when
Nearly every day, I hear from Whatcom County residents struggling to get by. Whether it’s the high cost of housing, childcare, gas or groceries –taxes and costs seem to continue to rise, imposing a particular burden on working families and senior citizens on fixed incomes. As your state senator, I’ve been focused on returning affordability, restoring public safety, and bringing your tax dollars back to Whatcom County to improve our infrastructure. I will continue to advocate for decreased taxes and commonsense regulations, especially for our small businesses, who have been particularly impacted from the pandemic and border
We’ve Got That
THE SEASON
Predict NFL Game Results & Win! MONDAY - THURSDAY During the Regular Season
Free Play
a promotional kiosk to play.
I see Whatcom County not as a conglomeration of red and blue precincts, but as one community. We are neighbors first. I sincerely believe that all of us have more in common than what divides us. I want to continue to serve you in the state Senate because I dream of raising a family in a state where I can afford to buy a home, where my children get a world-class education, and where we recreate with peace of mind.
After speaking with thousands of my constituents, I know that many of you dream of the same. I’m running because I feel like I have no other choice – our challenges are monumental and we need to send an advocate to Olympia.