The Northern Light: November 24-30, 2022

Holiday happenings, pages

Holiday Harbor Lights festival returns Dec. 3

Holiday lights wrapped around down town trees highlight the impending return of Blaine’s winter festivities.

Blaine’s annual Holiday Harbor Lights festival is making its grand return on Sat urday, December 3. The festival will kick off at 9 a.m. with the Blaine Senior Center’s pancake breakfast. Pancakes, scrambled eggs, sausage, coffee and orange juice will be served at the center, 763 G Street, until 11 a.m. Breakfast plates are $7 for adults and $5 for kids under 6 years old.

St. Anne’s Church will host a Christmas market and bake sale from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the church, 604 H Street. The Christmas market will have crafts, baked goods and raffle prizes. It will also be open from 9 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. on Friday, December 2.

Blaine Library will hold its book sale in the Blaine Community Center pavilion, 635 8th Street. The book sale will be open from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

The holiday bazaar will run from 11 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. at 648 Peace Portal Drive, between Peace Arch City Cafe and Jack Niemann’s Black Forest Steak House. The bazaar will have at least 25 vendors selling soaps, knit scarfs, jewelry, photography, custom dish towels and woodwork, said Sheila Wood, Blaine Chamber of Com merce executive director.

Blaine-Birch Bay Park and Recreation District 2’s 10th annual Holiday Lights Obstacle Dash will start at 2 p.m. at Lin coln Park, 1800 H Street. Participants are encouraged to dress in their best hol iday wear – whether that is a Christmas sweater or reindeer antlers – as they run or walk through the holiday-themed ob stacle course. The obstacle dash costs $10 for adults, $5 for children 5-17 years old, $30 for a family of up to five people and is free for children under 5. Preregistration is available online at bbbparkandrec.org and registration will be open 12-1:30 p.m. at the obstacle course.

Blaine High School and Blaine Middle School students will perform live music and carol 4-5 p.m., bringing holiday spirit

Blaine sets priorities ahead of legislative session

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The city of Blaine will be prioritizing sewer infrastructure, fiscal sustainability, local trans portation maintenance, and affordable hous ing in the state’s 2023 legislative session.

Blaine City Council approved its legislative agenda for the city’s lobbyists, staff and coun cil to advocate for during its November 14 meeting. The following are the city’s legisla tive priorities, listed in the order they appear on the legislative agenda.

Sewer infrastructure

East Blaine sewer infrastructure has topped the city’s priority list for the past few years, as pressure mounts to build out east Blaine housing and extend the city’s sewer system. The city is asking the state for $2.5 million to extend the current sewer system to the up

coming Grandis Pond neighborhood. Gran dis Pond is expected to have 1,000 homes, multi-family units, apartments and commer cial areas, but developers have been unable to build because of lacking infrastructure.

The city plans to start a tax-increment fi nancing (TIF) district next year to address east Blaine’s utility needs and will use state funds to match the district’s funds, according to the legislative agenda. Using TIF, the city could collect money from expected increases in property tax revenues from an east Blaine area – not the entire city – to pay for street, water and sewer construction.

School district sewer extension

The city is also supporting Blaine school district’s $1 million request to construct a

(See City, page 3)

Holiday Magic!

s Community Assistance Program (CAP) volunteers sort bread rolls for the nonprofit’s Thanksgiving baskets on November 21. CAP planned to distribute over 200 baskets filled with traditional holiday fixings such as ham, cranberry sauce, stuffing mix and canned green beans behind Cost Cutter. From l.; Evelyne Hendricks, Barb VanSwearingen, Mary Ellen Rathe and Jackie Braverman.

Photo by Grace McCarthy

B

B

Rite Aid

James Ray, guest conductor

Richard Hodges, narrator

A narrated version of ‘Twas the Night Before Christmas anchors this afternoon of seasonal delights.

Atwood Farm Brewery offering local brews on Sweet Road

Josh Smith of Atwood Farm Brewery prefers to be in his dirty room.

That’s what he calls the brew room, on his family farm, on Sweet Road, where he mixes lo cal and homegrown ingredients to make unique French and Bel gian-inspired beers. The room has around 15 barrels. He takes the base beers, often ales or la gers, that he makes in his “clean room” and blends them with

City ...

From page 1

sewer line from Pipeline Road to the school district’s athletic fields complex. This request, which is being led by the school district, will allow the district to replace the portable restrooms with a public restroom facility and concession stand. The sewer line makes way for future development of land next to the athletic complex, which could bring manufacturing and residential buildings. The district would also like to convert the field to artificial turf to make it usable throughout the entire year and increase its avail ability to the community, according to the legislative agenda.

Fiscal sustainability

The city is joining with the Asso ciation of Washington Cities to ask state legislators to allow local gov ernments to increase property tax levies with inflation, instead of the 1 percent annual growth limit. State law allows governments to increase their levies by 1 percent each year, and anything higher needs to be voter-approved. The city also asked the state to increase revenue sharing with city governments. The city is asking for these changes due to on going fiscal impacts from the U.S./ Canada border closure, according to the city’s legislative wishlist.

Transportation maintenance

The city is asking the legislature

hops from nearby farms and spe cialty ingredients. Right now, he’s working on a batch that uses har dy kiwis grown at Five Elements Harvest on Stein Road in Custer. Some batches he’ll pour out, saying brewing comes with a lot of trial and error.

Although not a fan of IPAs, Smith recently released Atwood’s first double IPA, Depression. Pre vious IPAs are called Denial and Anger. Smith said he’d rather brew and drink saisons, like the brewery’s Vers L’Ouest, Cones

to allocate alternative transporta tion funding for local transpor tation and maintenance as fuel tax revenues decline. The state allowed border towns, including Blaine, to impose an additional 1-cent fuel tax for local transpor tation as border cities have many travelers who don’t pay local taxes use the infrastructure.

“The state will be discussing this during the 2023 session and local governments need to be a part of that discussion to ensure cities re ceive a fair share of whatever reve nue source is identified,” said Hol ly Cocci, consultant with Gordon Thomas Honeywell Governmental Affairs, during the meeting.

Affordable housing

Affordable housing is a key is sue for Blaine. The legislative pri orities outline that the city sup ports affordable housing policies and funding sources such as the Housing Trust Fund, which pro vides loans and grants to afford able housing projects.

AWC priorities

In addition to the city’s priorities, the Association of Washington Cit ies (AWC) has five legislative pri orities that were briefly discussed during the council meeting. The AWC wants the legislature to clari fy its drug possession law following Washington Supreme Court’s 2021 decision to strike down the drug possession statute in State v. Blake. The association is asking the legis

of Uncertainty and Competitive Walking. He said he likes the dry ness and variety of flavors each beer can offer.

When drinking the Competi tive Walking, there are two rules. One: Don’t set it down until emp ty. Two: “Drink this beer while engaging in friendly competition, including but not limited to: Sports, lawn games, board games, crossword puzzles, speed read ing, staring contests or debating what show to stream,” according to the brewery’s website.

lature for state funding to offset the costs related to the Blake decision such as diversion programs and repaying legal financial obligations as well as asking for the state to in vest in alternative response teams, treatment facilities and providers. The association is asking state law makers to clarify law enforcement’s ability to do vehicle pursuits when public safety is threatened.

The AWC also wants the state to ensure basic infrastructure funding through fully funding the Public Works Assistance Ac count. It also asks for the state to prioritize affordable housing and provide behavioral health resources.

Councilmember Richard May noted that the association’s prior ities were included as a reference for councilmembers along with the city’s legislative agenda, but did not mean the city fully supported every priority from the association.

“The purpose of having the leg islative priorities is to have a fo cused list of items for both your state legislators, [consultants], along with city staff to work on advancing,” Cocci said. “The leg islative process is a very fast-paced process where thousands of policy issues are discussed, really stretch ing legislators’ time and attention. If there are too many legislative priorities, attention and focus will be divided and the likelihood of success really decreases.”

Atwood recently released Grabbers, a Gose-style sour beer brewed with locally caught Dungeness crab and crab shells.

The brewery is open 1-4 p.m. most Saturdays until the end of the year for retail sales and barnside pick up.

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s Josh Smith in front of Atwood Farm Brewery, 4012 Sweet Road in Blaine. Photo by Ian Haupt s Atwood Farm Brewery offers wholesale and pickups on Saturdays until the end of the year.

Photo by Ian Haupt

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

Office Manager Jeanie Luna info@pointrobertspress.com

Advertising Sales Molly Ernst, Gary Lee sales@pointrobertspress.com

General

editor@pointrobertspress.com

Blaine students have successful food drive OpiniOn

The Editor:

Once again (for the third time in nine years?), the city of Blaine is engaging a con sultant to “revitalize” downtown Blaine. This time at a huge expense – $620,000!

Absolutely nothing came from the last consultants’ reports except Blaine should be investing in more parks, street upgrades etc. In the November 17 issue of The Northern Light, the revitalization consists of benches, bike racks, landscaping and

ADA compliance. $2.83 million? You must be joking. I consider this to be an abhor rent misuse of my tax dollars.

If Blaine has $620,000 to blow on a “consultant,” why not spend that mon ey on benches, bike racks, landscaping and ADA compliance? I appeal to Blaine residents to contact the city council and show objection to spending that money, or if they believe the expense will actual

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 Thursday, 6 p.m. Info: blainepc@cityofblaine.com. Info for joining Zoom meetings: bit.ly/3EwWiZi.

ly enhance Blaine, show support. The city council needs to know where we stand on this type of expense.

Greg Wendt Blaine

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

Blaine-Birch Bay Park and Recreation: Second Tuesday, 5:30 p.m., location varies. Info: bbbparkandrec.org. The December meeting will be 5:30 p.m. Wednesday, December 14 at Blaine Senior Center.

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

Blaine School Board: Fourth Monday, 7 p.m., Blaine school district offices. Info: blainesd.org.

North Whatcom Fire & Rescue: Third Thursday, 11 a.m., Station 61 at 9408 Odell Road and via Zoom. Info: nwfrs.net.

s Food collected by Blaine school students stretched down the hall in Blaine Elementary School. Although the amount of food hadn’t been counted by November 21, school staff expects it to likely exceed the 11,000 pounds of food that were collected last year. Blaine elemen tary and primary students, above, partnered with Cost Cutter to collect food and monetary donations. From l. top row; Dylan Magnussen, Bryce Bradley, Eloise Olsen, Nolan Lewis, Mason Nowakowski, Teagan Wystrup. From l. bottom row; Maddy Hawkins and Toby Hawkins.

Photos by Grace McCarthy

Salishan neighborhood loses power for 7 hours

A power outage in the Sal ishan neighborhood impacted about 100 homes on November 20.

Blaine interim public works director Gary McSpadden said public works received a call about the power outage around 4 p.m. November 20. The power

returned 11 p.m. that night.

A hot cap on the aerial line caused the outage, McSpadden said. The wires came apart and it started to arc, so public works employees redid the connec tion and reenergized the line.

McSpadden said the last power outage within Blaine city limits

Bereavement support group comes to Blaine

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PeaceHealth Whatcom Hos pice will be offering a bereave ment support group for Blaine residents struggling during the holiday season after the death of a loved one. The free support group will take place 10-11:30 a.m. Thursday, December 8 and will be followed by a support se ries starting in late January.

Whatcom Hospice Bereavement Services will host the December 8 group at Blaine United Church of Christ, 885 4th Street. Regis tration is required. The session is geared toward adults who have experienced a death of a loved one within the past year to 1.5 years, but will be open to anyone in the community, said Michelle Walsh, bereavement coordinator for Whatcom Hospice.

“The anticipation and feeling of,

‘There’s this extra energy and things to do’ can feel so overwhelming,” Wash said. “Some people can’t imagine preparing for the holidays or going over to someone’s house where people are celebrating.”

The group, which is expected to be around 10 people, will have resources on grief, allow attend ees to share their stories and help normalize aspects of grief. The December group will discuss low er energy levels during the holi days, such as attending a holiday dinner but leaving early; ways to handle holiday traditions such as going on vacation or participat ing in fewer activities; and how to connect with loved ones through sharing memories or lighting a candle at the table, Walsh said. She added there is no pressure to share during support meetings.

was a couple of months ago and impacted about 10 people on Mitchell Avenue.

“The old cap failed and we identified it and fixed it as quick as we could,” McSpadden said.

CITY OF BLAINE

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.

November 24 and 25 City Offices Closed

Monday, November 28 6:00pm – City Council Meeting: Continued Public Hearing on 2023 Budget

Thursday, December 1 9:00am – Ad Hoc Downtown Advisory Committee Meeting

Thursday, December 8 9:00am – Park and Cemetery Board Meeting *CANCELLED* 6:00pm – Planning Commission Meeting

Monday, December 12 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

donations totaled about $50,000 of Nature’s Path granola, toast er pastries and oatmeal cups. Photos courtesy Nature’s Path

2022-23 BORDERITE

WINTER SPORTS SCHEDULE

This page sponsored by

BOYS BASKETBALL

DATE OPPONENT

12/2 KING’S

SITE TIME

NOOKSACK 5:40 PM

12/3 BEAR CREEK NOOKSACK 5:40 PM

12/6 BELLINGHAM HOME 7:15 PM

12/10 OAK HARBOR OAK HARBOR 7:15 PM

12/14 LAKEWOOD HOME 7:15 PM

12/16 SQUALICUM SQUALICUM 7:15 PM

12/21 LYNDEN CHRISTIAN HOME 7:15 PM

12/27 FRIDAY HARBOR HOME 2:00 PM

12/29 CEDARCREST EVERETT CC 4:30 PM

1/2 NOOKSACK NOOKSACK 7:15 PM

1/5 SEDRO-WOOLLEY SEDRO-WOOLLEY 7:15 PM

1/10 MERIDIAN HOME 7:15 PM

1/12 LYNDEN HOME 7:15 PM

1/16 MOUNT BAKER MOUNT BAKER 7:15 PM

1/20 BURLINGTON-EDISON HOME 7:15 PM

1/23 MOUNT VERNON MOUNT VERNON 7:00 PM

1/28 ANACORTES HOME 7:15 PM

1/31 SEHOME SEHOME 7:15 PM

2/2 FERNDALE HOME 7:15 PM

BOYS WRESTLING

DATE OPPONENT SITE TIMES

12/3 MARINER HOLIDAY TOURNAMENT MARINER 9:30 AM

12/7 LYN, SEHOME, MB LYNDEN 6:00 PM

12/9 BATTLE AT THE BORDER HOME 1:00 PM

12/10 BATTLE AT THE BORDER HOME 8:00 AM

12/13 MB, MER, NV HOME 6:00 PM

12/16 HAMMER HEAD BOYS TOURNAMENT KITSAP FAIR 8:00 AM 12/29 VASHON + OTHERS VASHON 10:00 AM

1/3 MB, BELL, SQUAL MOUNT BAKER 6:00 PM

1/7 EVERETT CLASSIC EVERETT 9:00 AM

1/12 MOUNT BAKER, FERNDALE MOUNT BAKER 6:00 PM

1/14 BAINBRIDGE BAINBRIDGE 8:30 AM

1/21 QUINCY MAT ANIMAL TOURNAMENT QUINCY 10:00 AM

GIRLS BASKETBALL

DATE OPPONENT SITE TIME

12/6 BELLINGHAM BELLINGHAM 7:15 PM

12/8 LA CONNER HOME 7:15 PM

12/10 OAK HARBOR HOME 7:15 PM

12/14 LAKEWOOD LAKEWOOD 7:15 PM

12/16 SQUALICUM HOME 7:15 PM

12/21 LYNDEN CHRISTIAN LYNDEN CHRISTIAN 7:15 PM

12/27 FRIDAY HARBOR HOME 12:00 PM

1/2 NOOKSACK HOME 7:15 PM

1/5

SEDRO-WOOLLEY HOME 7:15 PM

1/10 MERIDIAN MERIDIAN 7:15 PM

1/12 LYNDEN LYNDEN 7:15 PM

1/16 MOUNT BAKER HOME 7:15 PM

1/23 MOUNT VERNON HOME 7:15 PM

1/28 ANACORTES ANACORTES 7:15 PM

1/31 SEHOME HOME 7:15 PM

GIRLS WRESTLING

DATE OPPONENT SITE TIME

12/6 MB, MER, SQUAL, BELL, S-W MOUNT BAKER 6:00 PM

12/10 ORTING + OTHERS ORTING 7:00 AM

12/10 EVERETT + OTHERS EVERETT 9:00 AM

12/29 WOOLLEY WOMEN’S TOURNAMENT SEDRO-WOOLLEY 9:00 AM

1/3 LYN, MER, NV HOME 6:00 PM

1/10 BELLINGHAM UNITED WRESTLING TBD 7:00 PM

1/14 BORDERITE BLIZZARD TOURNAMENT HOME 10:00 AM

1/19 B-E, MER, SQUAL, BELL TBD 6:00 PM

1/20 OTHELLO LADY HUSKIE INVITE OTHELLO 4:00 PM

1/21 OTHELLO LADY HUSKIE INVITE OTHELLO 9:00 AM

1/28 LADY KNIGHTS INVITATIONAL MARINER 9:00 AM

BOWLING

TIME 11/9 NWC BOWLING JAMBOREE

BAKER LANES 3:15 PM 11/14 CASCADE EVERGREEN BOWLING 3:15 PM 11/16 MERIDIAN

BAKER LANES 3:15 PM 11/21 ANACORTES

BAKER LANES 3:15 PM 11/22 BURLINGTON-EDISON RIVERSIDE LANES 3:15 PM 12/2 SQUALICUM MT BAKER LANES 3:15 PM 12/7 MOUNT VERNON

BAKER LANES 3:15 PM 12/12 FERNDALE

BAKER LANES 3:15 PM 12/14 EVERETT

BAKER LANES 3:15 PM 1/3 FERNDALE

BAKER LANES 3:15 PM 1/6 ANACORTES

BAKER LANES 3:15 PM 1/10 SQUALICUM

BAKER LANES 3:15 PM 1/17 MOUNT VERNON RIVERSIDE LANES 3:00 PM

Blaine football coach Jay Dodd resigns after 17 seasons

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Jay Dodd stepped down from his role as Blaine High School football coach last week after 17 years as head coach.

“Hard to put into words what the last 17 years have been about for me,” Dodd said. “It’s all based on relationships.”

Dodd said he has great rela tionships with current and former players that are special to him. It was a tough decision, he said.

Dodd led Blaine to four state championship tournaments, in cluding three years in a row from 2007 to 2009. Prior to that, Dodd’s senior year, 1995, was the last time Blaine made it to state.

As a coach, he has the most wins in Blaine history, 73.

His resignation comes on the back of one-and-nine losing re cord for the Borderites this sea son, but Dodd said that was not the reason for his leaving. He said he has positive relationships with the current players and was working with four of them in the Blaine High School weight room as he spoke to The Northern Light on the phone.

Dodd said he stepped down to spend more time with his family. He said his kids are older now and that he would like to put more of his time into watching them grow up.

Blaine athletic director Chas Kok said he appreciated Dodd’s help in welcoming him into the district earlier this year.

“We will definitely miss him

and his presence at Blaine athlet ics,” Kok said. “And in the What com football community.”

Dodd said he will still hold his teaching position at Blaine High School. He said he hopes to give back to all Blaine students.

“I’m going to miss games. Going to miss Friday nights, and the en ergy that comes with those nights,” Dodd said. “But more than that, just the process of helping a young man through the steps of football. Those are special moments, where you develop relationships.”

Statistics thanks to whatcompreps.com.

s Blaine football coach Jay Dodd, c., talks with Borderite football players. Photo by Ian Haupt

s Dodd is presented with the football from his 50th winning game as Blaine’s football coach in November 2014. File photo

The Christmas tree lighting will start at 4:45 p.m. on G Street Plaza, followed by free horse-drawn carriage and mini-train rides in downtown 5-7 p.m. People also have the chance to meet Santa and Mrs. Claus, who will travel from

the North Pole to the Blaine Welcome Center, 546 Peace Portal Drive 5-7 p.m.

“The Harbor Holiday Lights event brings a good sense of com munity,” Wood said. “It’s more of the Blaine community that comes to this event.”

s Children sit with Santa Claus during the 2021 Holiday Harbor Lights festival. Photo by Ruth Lauman

Road Rules: Driving on icy or snowy roads

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Question: What should I do if my car starts to skid on ice or snow?

Answer: Many years ago, I learned a valuable principle from a defensive tactics in structor. He said, “If you don’t want to get hit, don’t be there.” His advice was intended for physical confrontations, but metaphorically it works in a lot of other situations. Maybe you already see where I’m going with this.

It’s easy to mistake knowl edge for skill, and I’m con cerned that if I answer this question the way I think you want me to, that I’ll perpetuate that mistake, so let’s shift the focus from hazard recovery to hazard avoidance. Skidding is an indicator that your driving has exceeded the limitations of the road conditions, so instead of practicing how to recover from a skid, we should practice how to drive within the limits of the road conditions and pre vent the skid.

With that in mind, every time we drive we have opportunities to practice hazard avoidance. Make these practices a part of every drive: Drive at a speed appropriate for the conditions. Speed limits are maximums and they’re set for ideal conditions; you can (and should) choose a slower speed when it’s icy or snowy. When following behind another vehicle, leave enough room. The three seconds of following distance you usually practice (you are leaving three seconds, right?) should be more like six to 10 seconds. Look ahead and anticipate what’s coming so you have sufficient time to change speed or direc tion. As you’ve already noticed, these exercises won’t just help avoid a skid; they’re helpful for avoiding any hazard.

Let’s return to my defensive tactics instructor’s advice. All of us students had just learned some skills to help us if we ended up on the fist end of an angry dude’s arm. His point was that when you have (over)con fidence in your skills you can

get yourself into situations that a person without those skills would have avoided to begin with. You can try to win a fight, or you can step away and not even take a hit. In driving, you can reduce the possibility of getting into a skid by how you drive. I’ll even go one further and suggest that when your ve hicle and driving skills are not a match for the weather you could choose not to drive.

That’s a tough one for some people, because if there’s one place where we’re overcon fident, it’s in driving. Seven ty-three percent of U.S. drivers think they’re better than the average driver. Think about that for a moment. Yeah, the math doesn’t work out. People who are overconfident in their driving skills tend to drive more aggressively, increasing the likelihood that they’ll get into a hazardous situation that they’ll then have to get back out of.

Let’s say you do all the hazard avoidance practices, but you still find yourself in a skid. The ba sics of skid recovery are decep tively simple: Let off the throttle, steer in the direction you want to go and keep both hands on the wheel. Knowing that might help a little bit, but unless you’ve actually practiced it, you won’t have the muscle memory to ex ecute it in an unexpected and high-stress situation.

If you really want to get good at recovering from a skid, find a way to safely get training and repetitions. Some driving schools offer advanced courses that include skid recovery, and beyond developing that specific skill, improving your driving is a worthwhile investment. Just don’t let your newfound skills get you into a situation it would have been better to avoid.

Doug Dahl is a manager with the Washington Traffic Safety Commission, Region 11 and pub lishes TheWiseDrive.com.

File photo

Garden

Native landscaping program offered to Birch Bay residents again

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Birch Bay homeowners will have a second opportunity to participate in Whatcom County’s free native landscaping program after the pilot program started last year.

Birch Bay Watershed and Aquatic Resources Manage ment District (BBWARM) and Whatcom Conservation District (WCD) started the program to re duce water runoff, save water and improve watershed habitat.

The pilot program helped home owners with planning and permit ting, and then program organizers provided mulch and plants to the homeowners during a planting work party on October 22. Five homes in total, between Birch Bay Village and Birch Bay View, were selected out of 30 property owners, said BBWARM program specialist Kate Rice. The program hopes to do 10 homes in 2023.

The program is looking for a cluster of properties within a walkable area, such as adjacent to

one another or being within sight distance, Rice said. The properties should have 1,000-3,000 square feet of lawn that can be turned into native plant landscaping.

Native landscaping is low main tenance because it doesn’t require mowing, and needs minimal mulching and watering, Rice said, adding that native plants bring pollinators. Native plants have deeper roots than grass, so they soak up and filter more water, re ducing pollution and runoff.

“It benefits the whole commu nity but it also helps the land owner,” Rice said.

About 8,500 square feet of na tive landscaping were installed this year, something Rice says (See Landscape, page 16)

s Five Birch Bay households participated in the pilot native landscap ing program’s planting party on October 22.

Photos courtesy Kate Rice/Whatcom County Public Works

11.42.030

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 representa tive of the 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 the decedent has not been issued to any other notice agent and a personal representative of the decedent’s estate has not been appointed.

Any person having a claim against the decedent must, before the time the claim would be barred by any otherwise appli cable 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 in which the notice agent’s declaration and oath were filed. The claim must be presented within the later of: (1) Thirty days after the notice agent served or mailed the notice to the creditor as provid ed under RCW 11.42.020(2)(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 11.42.050 and 11.42.060. This bar is effective as to claims against both the decedent’s probate and nonprobate assets.

DATE OF FIRST PUBLICATION:

November 10, 2022

The notice agent declares under penalty of perjury under the laws of the State of Washington on 15th day of August, 2022, at Highland Park, Illinois, that the foregoing is true and correct.

IN THE SUPERIOR COURT OF THE STATE OF WASHINGTON IN AND FOR WHATCOM COUNTY In re the Estate of: JENNIFER LYNNE HANSEN, Deceased. No. 22-4-01068-37. NOTICE TO CRED

ITORS. Judge Lee Grochmal

The Personal Representative named below has been appointed and has qualified as Personal Representative of this estate. Any person having a claim against the 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 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: November 10, 2022 with Clerk of Court: Date of First Publication: November 17, 2022

Name of Personal Representative: KATHERINE MCCAIN

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: November 10, 2022.

AVERY ELDER LAW, P.S. STEVEN D. AVERY, WSBA #35262

Attorney for Personal Representative: KATHERINE MCCAIN

SUPERIOR COURT OF WASHINGTON FOR CHELAN COUNTY In the Matter of the Es tate of JAN T. STEVENS, Deceased. No. 22-4-00535-04. NONPROBATE NOTICE TO CREDITORS. RCW

Islands and Gulf Islands from your living room. Functional floorplan, corner fireplace, and views from great room, kitchen, eating area and primary bedroom. Decks on both levels to enjoy the sunsets, people watching, and legendary July 4th firework shows. Complex features a sport court, indoor pool, hot tub, clubhouse.

8026

Birch Bay Drive #215

MLS #1938377 $410,000

The unobstructed view says it all, enjoy the Birch Bay evening sunsets from your own private decks. Enjoy all that Birch Bay has to offer, strolling along the berm walking path seconds from your condo, beachcombing, night life and a short walk to the world-fa mous C Shop. Amenities in complex include an indoor swimming pool, hot tub, tennis, basketball, racquetball, pickleball courts, and clubhouse. GREAT FLOOR PLAN MAKES FOR EASE OF LIVING, furniture included.

8253

Skeena Way

MLS #1994779 $199,000

The last Manufactured home lot in Birch Bay Village, Saltwater Marina, golf course, 24/7 security, private waterfront parks with play grounds & picnic shelters on beautiful sandy beaches, clubhouse with Pool and sports courts, many miles of paved low speed limit roads great for long walks. Lots of room to park a boat or RV and use the 260 sq. ft. tiny home on property with Kitchenette, 3/4 bath, living area, 8x16 storage shed.

Billy Brown 360-220-7175

4751 Birch Bay Lynden Rd #246

MLS #2006793 $129,000

180-day homesite. Latitude 49 gated com munity. Sweet location, sweet property, full of opportunity. 2700 sq. ft. rectangular homesite with 45 feet of frontage & 2008 remodeled Trail Bay travel trailer. Look at the pictures to fully understand the transforma tion from a travel trailer to small turn-key condominium get away with double elec tric tip outs. Includes all that you see, out building, planter, water and sewer paid and hooked up. Premier location to Clubhouse.

5078 Fern Street

MLS #1977412 $529,000

This unique Property is located on the bluff above Cottonwood beach in Birch Bay. It is a private, picturesque setting featuring a 1520sf home with 4 bedrooms and 1¾ baths. The detached, two-story, double-bay shop has a 650sf lower level and 270sf up per level!! Just a block from miles of sandy beaches, a walking promenade, and all the recreational activities surrounding this wa terfront community. Perfect opportunity to remodel to make it your dream home!

Brandi

Matt Berry 360-389-0104

Gerry Allen 360-920-0563

Brian Southwick 360.815.6638

Tonya Wahl 541-707-0196

Jeff Carrington 360-220-3224 5486

MLS #2011655

Mike

potential!

Zoned Residential-Office, the possibilities are endless: use as a single-family home, a vacation rental or as office space for a doctor or attorney, etc. Spectacular Drayton Harbor & Semiahmoo views + just steps to the marina, shopping, dining & the schools.

New furnace, tankless water heater and gas fireplace + the original hardwood floors help to retain the warm & inviting feel.

Jen Freeman 360.815.0803

9125 Shearwater Road

MLS #2016107

$1,695,000

Newer northwest contemporary stunner in the sought after gated community of Boundary Ridge @ Semiahmoo, welcome to Shearwater Drive! All the ‘must have’ boxes are checked and then some: filtered ocean + sunset views, vaulted ceilings, open con cept design, 3 primary suites (2 on the main floor + 1 downstairs), 3 car garage + private & generously sized backyard entertaining area. The fresh & modern finishes set this one apart...it’s been very lightly lived in.

Leah Crews 360.305.4747

8820 Wood Duck Way

MLS #1969453

$1,275,000

Stunning new construction home situated just off 2nd fairway at Semiahmoo. Views of golf course from the elevated backyard covered deck plus filtered views of Drayton Harbor & Canadian Mtns. Greatroom fea tures vaulted ceiling, gas fireplace, hard wood flooring & lots of natural light w/doors to deck. High-end kitchen appl, wine fridge, oversized refrig/freezer, wall & walk-in pan tries & large quartz island. Spacious primary bedrm with dramatic tile details in bathrm!

Randy Weg 360.305.5704

9535 Semiahmoo Pkwy #B102

MLS #1966775 $1,195,000

Stunning Waterfront, Marin Condo, steps to the beach, overlooking Semiahmoo Bay & White Rock BC. Beautifully designed open concept condo w/luxury finishes through out. Gourmet kitchen, SS appliances, gran ite counters, large island, and wine bar & dining area. Gorgeous living room with gas fireplace & water views. Radiant floors throughout. Step out to a large patio & steps to the beach. Primary bedroom with walk-in closet, granite counters, double sinks.

Lisa Sprague 360-961-0838

9043

Gleneagle Drive

MLS #2011107 $689,000 2020-21 remodel--phenomenal 3 bed/3 bath Gleneagle Villa has been outfitted with numerous upgrades that are sure to please! Quiet location, private & peaceful. Main floor living makes for excellent use of space with private ensuite for guests upstairs. Kitchen has been completely remodeled--refined designed, new appliances, custom cabine try, countertops, & hardware. Primary bath boasts new cabinets, floors, & faucets. Up dates are immaculate and this unit shines!

Kathy Stauffer 360.815.4718

s Whatcom Hospice will host a bereavement support group 10-11:30 a.m. Thursday, December 8 at Blaine United Church of Christ, 885 4th Street. Whatcom Hospice will then host a group series 1-2:30 p.m. Thurs days from January 12 to February 16

Group ...

From page 5

“We’re here to support peo ple who have lost a loved one,” Walsh said.

Walsh said the one-time group in December gives people the op portunity to get a feel for the sup port program and then they can sign up for a six-week group series offered early next year.

Whatcom Hospice will host three six-week education and sup portive grief group sessions that will be structured similarly to the December meeting.

The first group series will start in Blaine and be offered 1-2:30 p.m. Thursdays from January 12 to Feb ruary 16 at Blaine United Church of Christ. The second series will be held in Bellingham and offered 2-3:30 p.m. Tuesdays from January 24 to February 28. The third series will be held remotely on Zoom and will take place 6-7:30 p.m. Tues days from March 21 to April 25.

Walsh said she believes this is the first time the group series has been offered in Blaine.

“We recognize how much peo ple want to be in person,” she said. “We don’t want people to drive as far and recently the need for more support has grown.”

Walsh encouraged people un sure of attending to reach out to Whatcom Hospice.

“It’s hard for a lot of people to at tend the meetings, listen and talk about grief,” she said. “Know that is really natural. Most people share they’re grateful they came and knowing they’re not alone in their grief. We’re very willing to give them support before they even get through the door. We know it takes a lot of courage to make that step.”

To register for the December 8 Blaine session or any of the sixweek grief courses, contact What com Hospice Bereavement Services at 360/733-5877 or whatcomhos picegrief@peacehealth.org. Visit whatcomhospice.org for more in formation.

Whatcom Hospice will also hold

a Celebration of Light in remem brance of people who have died

5-7 p.m. on Friday, December 2 and Saturday, December 3. The cel ebration will have lights displayed through the Whatcom Hospice Campus, 2800 Douglas Avenue

in Bellingham. Family and friends who have lost a loved one are in vited to drive through the light display and get a candle to bring home. Attendees can have their loved one’s name displayed during the event.

Ernest (Ernie) Arnold Thompson

July 15, 1943 – November 11, 2022

Ernest (Ernie) Arnold Thompson went to be with the Lord on November 11, 2022. Ernie was born in Bellingham on July 15, 1943. The first of three children born to Glenn and Ai leen (Pendleton) Thompson. Ernie attended Custer Grade and Junior High School; he graduated from Ferndale High School in 1961.

Ernie earned his AA from Skagit Valley Junior College in 1964, and received a teaching certificate for Secondary Sciences from Central Washington State College in 1967

He and Marjory Thomas were married in March 1967 and Uncle Sam sent Ernie to boot camp at Fort Lewis, WA; he was posted to San Francisco to do research work at Lettermen General Hospital. Son, Edward was added to their family.

Eighteen months later Michael was born in Ellensburg, WA. where Ernie started work on his masters degree. In fall 1972, he accepted the opportunity to teach high school math and science in South Australia. In 1977 Ernie and family returned to Custer.

In 1990 Ernie and Marjory moved to Birch Bay. His last job was a laboratory technician at the Botanical Laboratories, Inc in Ferndale.

They have been a part of the Sunrise Baptist Church family since their arrival in Custer in 1977. Ernie was a Sunday School teacher, usher, choir member and deacon.

He was preceded in death by his father, mother and granddaugh ter Tayler Marie Thompson. He leaves behind wife, Marjory; sons Edward Glenn, Michael Eugene (Sheila Silva); granddaughter Han nah Grace; sisters, CarolAnn (Larry) Beatty and Kaye (Dave) Thom son; several nephews and nieces and a host of cousins and friends.

A memorial Service will be held Friday, December 2, 7 p.m. at the Sunrise Baptist Church, 2480 West Badger Rd, Custer, WA 98230.

HIGHER END HOUSES: $800,000 & ABOVE:

New 1-story house with 1,924 SF, 3 BD, 2 BA, 3-car attached garage, built in 2022, .23 acres land.

1-story house with 1,790 SF, 3 BD, 2 BA, 548 SF deck, built in 1999, 50 feet waterfront, ma rine view .16 acres land.

1-story house with 2,764 SF, 1,124 SF base ment, 5 BD, 4 BA, 360 SF attached garage, 340 SF deck, 646 SF patio, built in 2006; marine and territorial views, .40 acres land. 1-story house with 2,764 SF, 1,124 SF basement, 5 BD, 4 BA, 360 SF attached garage, 340 SF deck, 646 SF patio, built in 2006; marine and territorial views, .40 acres land.

New 1-story house with basement 2,826 SF, 3 BD, 4 BA, built-in garage, deck, patio, built in 2022; marine and territorial views, .36 acres land.

2-story house with 2,610 SF, 1,152 SF base ment, 4 BD, 4 BA, 594 SF built-in garage, 198 SF shop, 204 SF deck, built in 2015; marine and territorial views, .22 acres land.

New 2-story house with 3,029 SF, 4 BD, 3 BA, attached garage, patio, built in 2022; territorial view, .26 acres land.

COMMERCIAL PROPERTIES:

Two 804 foot water storage tanks, 192 foot pump station, two utility buildings with 576 and 5,000 SF, built in 2013 and 2020, 3.37 acres land.

LAND: .35 acres residential lot; marine and territorial view.

8237 Cowichan Road, Blaine 657 Freeman Lane, Point Roberts 5537 Night Heron Drive, Blaine 5752 Nakat Way, Blaine 8996 Dearborn Ave., Blaine 8988 Garibaldi Court, Blaine 3805 Industry Lane, Blaine

Tolmiea Court, Blaine

$850,000 $950,000 $1,331,000 $1,299,750 $975,000 $869,000 $549,900 $225,000

at Blaine United Church of Christ. File photo

Nov. 11, 2:44 a.m. : Suspicious circumstances on Birch Bay Lyn den and Delta Line roads, Custer.

Nov. 11, 3:34 a.m.: Mental on Delta Line Road, Custer.

Nov. 11, 12:22 p.m.: Sex crime cold call on Treevue Road.

Nov. 11, 6:57 p.m.: Threat on Iverson Lane, Custer.

Nov. 12, 10:17 a.m.: Burglary cold call on Shipyard Road.

Nov. 12, 7:53 p.m.: Disorderly conduct cold call on Birch Bay Drive.

Nov. 13, 9:53 a.m.: Civil standby cold call on Catalina Court.

Nov. 14, 10:57 a.m.: Theft cold call on East Street.

Nov. 14, 3:27 p.m.: Mental cold call on Surf Place.

Nov. 14, 4:54 a.m.: Motor vehicle injury on Loomis Trail and Enterprise roads, Custer.

Nov. 15, 9:50 a.m.: Civil problem cold call on Clamdigger Drive.

Nov. 15, 5:57 p.m.: Juvenile problem on Boone Road.

Nov. 16, 11:30 a.m.: Welfare check on Birch Bay Drive.

Nov. 16, 5:14 p.m.: Harassment cold call on Leeside Drive.

Nov. 17, 10:27 a.m.: Theft cold call on Anderson Road.

Nov. 17, 12:07 p.m.: Drugs cold

call on Harborview Road.

Nov. 17, 1:56 p.m.: Sex offender registration on Delta Line Road, Custer.

Nov. 18, 11:25 p.m.: Traffic hazard on Birch Bay Lynden and Pierce roads, Custer.

Nov. 18, 4:55 p.m.: Sex crime no

rape cold call on Bay Road.

Nov. 19, 9:25 a.m.: Motor vehi cle accident on Birch Bay Lynden and Valley View roads, Custer.

Nov. 19, 4:44 p.m. Domestic verbal on Sweet Road.

Nov. 21, 11:43 a.m.: Theft cold call on H Street Road.

pOLiCe repOrts

Nov. 10, 1:38 a.m .: Driving un der the influence on 4th Street.

Nov. 10, 9:13 a.m. : Stolen bike on Bell Road.

Nov. 10, 4:54 p.m.: Auto colli sion on Semiahmoo Drive.

Nov. 11, 4;09 a.m. : Security check on C Street.

Nov. 11, 5:10 p.m. : Assist citizen on H Street.

Nov. 12, 10:05 a.m.: Assist citi zen on H Street.

Nov. 13, 2:03 p.m.: Trespass authorization letter on Peace Portal Drive.

Nov. 13, 8:04 p.m.: Disorderly conduct on Martin Street.

Nov. 13, 9:03 p.m.: Warrant arrest on Martin Street.

Nov. 13, 10:22 p.m.: Behavioral health on Bayview Avenue.

Nov. 13, 10:51 p.m.: Warrant

CrOssWOrd

arrest on H Street.

Nov. 14, 11:01 a.m.: Littering on Sweet Road.

Nov. 15, 12:24 p.m.: Paper ser vice on Martin Street.

Nov. 15, 1:35 p.m. : Third-degree theft investigation on E Street.

Nov. 15, 7:27 p.m.: Lost proper ty on D Street.

Nov. 15, 11:07 p.m.: Traffic stop on Peace Portal Drive.

Nov. 16, 3:02 p.m.: Malicious mischief investigation on Peace Portal Drive.

Nov. 16, 4:24 p.m.: Neighbor hood dispute on Alder Street.

Nov. 16, 11:08 p.m.: Traffic stop on 3rd Street.

Nov. 16, 11:33 p.m.: Hit and run unattended on Peace Portal Drive.

Report by Blaine Police Department.

50. Dutch city 52. Made of wood 53. Legendary golfer 55. Restaurant 56. None 57. Spanish city 58. Stony waste matter 59. Father 61. Confederate soldier 65. The ancient Egyptian sun god

Coming up

Community Toy Store Toy Drive: Through December 2. High quality toys in the $20–$50 range are needed for Blaine/Birch Bay’s holiday gift assistance program. Unwrapped toys may be dropped off at the Blaine Library, Blaine Senior Center, Pacific Building Center, Birch Bay Village Rec Center, and Semiahmoo Golf Club, marina cafe, athletic club and resort. Online direct delivery and monetary donation options are also available. Visit blainecap.org for full details. Sponsored by the Community Assistance Program. For questions, email toystore@blainecap.org.

Community Toy Store Registration: Families who need holiday gift assistance can get full details and register online through November 27 at blainecap.org or call 530/828-5195. Sponsored by the Community Assis tance Program.

Holiday Craft Fair: Sunday, November 27, 12-5 p.m., Beach Cat Brewing, 7876 Birch Bay Drive. Over 20 vendors, beer and an appearance from Santa Claus. Olde Fashioned Christmas in Ferndale: Friday, December 2 and Satur day, December 3, 4-9 p.m., Pioneer Park, 2004 Cherry Street, Ferndale. Visit with costumed volunteers in the cabins of Pioneer Park. Tickets $5 adults, $3 children. Sponsored by the Ferndale Heritage Society. Info: fern daleheritagesociety.com.

Friends of Blaine Library Book Sale: Saturday, December 3, 10 a.m.–5 p.m., Blaine Community Pavilion, 635 8th Street. Holiday shopping made easy with DVDs, CDs, coffee table books, teen’s and children’s books, adult fiction and non-fiction, and more. There’s something for everyone. Shop the sale and support the Blaine Library’s Building Project.

Pancake Breakfast: Saturday, December 3, 9–11 a.m., Blaine Senior Cen ter, 763 G Street. Pancakes, scrambled eggs, sausage, coffee and orange juice. Adults $7, kids under 6 $5. Info: 360/332-8040.

Christmas Market and Bake Sale: Saturday, December 3, 9 a.m.–3 p.m., St, Anne Church, 604 H Street. Craft items, gifts, baked goods and more. Multiple vendors, raffles and fun.

Friends of Blaine Library Book Sale: Saturday, December 3, 10 a.m.–5 p.m., Blaine Community Pavilion, 635 8th Street. Holiday shopping made easy with DVDs, CDs, coffee table books, teen’s and children’s books, adult fiction and non-fiction, and more. There’s something for everyone! Shop the sale and support the Blaine Library’s Building Project.

Blaine Holiday Harbor Lights Bazaar: Saturday, December 3, 11 a.m.–5:30 p.m., 648 Peace Portal Drive. Info: blainechamber.com

10th Annual Holiday Lights Dash: Saturday, December 3, 2 p.m., Lin coln Park (H Street entrance). Bring the family out for this family-friendly fun obstacle holiday-themed run/walk. Holiday attire is encouraged. Adults $10, family up to five $30, kids 5-17 $5, under 5 free. Preregister online at bbbparkandrec.org or day-of from noon-1:30 p.m. Sponsored by BlaineBirch Bay Park and Recreation District 2. Info: bbbparkandrec.org.

Holiday Harbor Lights Tree Lighting: Saturday December 3, Blaine G Street Plaza. 4–5 p.m., live music and caroling; 4:45 p.m., tree lighting; 5–7 p.m., free horse-drawn carriage and mini train rides, visit Santa and Mrs. Claus in the Welcome Center. Info: blainechamber.com.

Family Movie Night: Friday, December 9, 7 p.m., Birch Bay Activity Cen ter, 7511 Gemini Street. Watch a family-friendly holiday movie and enjoy hot chocolate, popcorn and maybe a visit from Santa himself! Free. Bring a chair or something comfortable to sit on. Sponsored by Blaine-Birch Bay Park and Recreation District 2. Info: bbbparkandrec.org.

tidesHoliday Book and Bake Sale Fundraiser: Saturdays, December 10 and 17, 10 a.m.–2 p.m., Birch Bay Community Library, 7968 Birch Bay Drive. Get 2023 Birch Bay calendars, pick up reading material, stock up on sweet treats and donate to the Birch Bay Community Library building fund. Spon sored by Friends of Birch Bay Library.

November 24 to 30 at Blaine. Not for navigation.

49° 0’ 0”N - 122° 46’ 0”W

DATE TIME HEIGHT TIME HEIGHT

Th 24 6:27 am 10.1 11:26 am 7.0

4:00 pm 9.5 11:35 pm -2.6

Fr 25 7:19 am 10.5 12:20 pm 7.5

4:34 pm 9.4

Sa 26 12:19 am -2.9 8:13 am 10.7

1:18 pm 7.7 5:12 pm 9.1

Su 27 1:05 am -2.8 9:09 am 10.7

2:24 pm 7.7 5:54 pm 8.6

Mo 28 1:55 am -2.3 10:03 am 10.6

3:44 pm 7.3 6:46 pm 7.9

Tu 29 2:49 am -1.4 10:53 am 10.4

5:10 pm 6.5 8:06 pm 6.9

We 30 3:45 am -0.2 11:39 am 10.2

6:26 pm 5.3 9:58 pm 6.1

Ongoing

Blaine Food Bank: 500 C Street. Open Mondays 9 a.m.–noon, Wednes days 5–7 p.m., and Fridays 9 a.m.–noon. Delivery options available. Info:360/332-6350 or blainefood@hotmail.com.

The Bridge Food Distribution Program: Fridays 3:30–5 p.m., The Bridge Community Hope Center, 4815 Alderson Road. Registration required at thebridgehope.com or call 360/366-8763. Volunteers welcome.

CAP Clothing Bank: Mondays and Fridays, 9 a.m.–noon and Wednes days, 5-7 p.m. 508 G Street. The Community Assistance Program clothing bank is now located in the basement of the CAP Center providing free clothing and linens. Donations accepted only during open hours or by special arrangement. Info: blainecap.org or 360/392-8484.

The Bridge Clothing Bank Boutique: Open Wednesday–Saturday, 10 a.m.–6 p.m, The Bridge Community Hope Center, 4815 Alderson Road. Donations by appointment, call 360/366-8763.

Friends of Birch Bay Library: Meets second Mondays. 6:30 p.m., Birch Bay Birch Bay Vogt Library site, 7968 Birch Bay Drive. Info: friendsofbirch baylibrary.org.

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.

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, December 14, 4 p.m., Birch Bay Vogt Library site, 7968 Birch Bay Drive. Voting on 2023 selections and sharing what each is currently reading and celebrate with a few treats. Info: klia1@mac.com.

WeatherBlaine Book Club: Friday, December 16, 1 p.m., Blaine Library, 610 3rd Street. December title: The Cold Millions by Jess Walter. Info: Kelly at 360/305-3637.

Precipitation: During the period of November 14-20, no precipitation was recorded. The 2022 yearto-date precipitation is 28.7 inches.

Temperature: High for the past week was 52°F on November 14 with a low of 26°F on November 19. Average high was 45°F and average low was 33°F.

Courtesy Birch Bay Water & Sewer Dist.

Blaine Serenity Al-Anon: Mondays, noon–1 p.m. on Zoom. Have you been dealing with alcoholism with a friend or family member? Info: Jerry lyn at 360/305-2246.

Alcoholics Anonymous Meetings: Tuesdays at 7 p.m., Fridays at 7:30 p.m., Saturdays at noon, women’s meeting Mondays at 4 p.m., Blaine United Church of Christ basement, 855 4th Street. Info: 208/750-8772 or shannonsessions2020@gmail.com.

Blaine Arts Council: Meets second Thursday, 6:30 p.m., at Blaine Library, 610 3rd Street. Info: blaineartscouncil.org.

Submissions to Coming Up should be sent to calendar@thenorthernlight.com no later than noon on Monday.

Breaking down Washington’s school funding formula

B y V en I ce B uha I n / c rosscut co M

School budgets in Washington state are always under scrutiny –few people understand the ins and outs of K-12 funding, and it can be confusing to the layperson.

Recent educator strikes in Se attle, Eatonville, Richland and elsewhere in Washington have brought more public attention to rising school budgets. These ris ing costs could lead to funding gaps that both local districts and the state may need to address.

Seattle officials have warned that the district could find itself in a budget shortfall that nears $200 million in the next three years. Other districts, such as Olympia, are also girding for possible cuts.

As a result, some education professionals have called for the state legislature to revisit how much is going to schools, possi bly in the 2023 legislative session that begins in January.

Education is the state’s larg est expenditure category. School funding in the past few years has made up about half of Washing ton’s total general fund budget – about $28 billion of the state’s $59.2 billion operating budget in the 2021-23 biennium. That money to educate the state’s roughly 1.1 million K-12 public school students does not include state money spent to build and repair school buildings, buy or rent buses, or pay for some sup plemental education.

But what is the relationship between the state funding and lo cal schools, and how much room does the state have to give more to school districts? Here’s a basic breakdown of how Washington funds its K-12 schools.

State funding vs. local levies

Most school money comes from state property, business and sales taxes and optional local property taxes, commonly called maintenance and operations levies. Most of the state money is distributed on a per-student basis, but several other factors also determine state funding, in cluding whether the students in the district come from families with low incomes or have special needs because of different learn ing or physical abilities. Wash ington also gets school dollars from harvesting and selling trees on state-owned lands.

School districts can also put levies before local voters, usually in special elections in February or April. Local operations levies are capped, so districts are limited in how much they can ask from their local voters (more on that later). An additional 10 percent or so of school funding comes from fed eral or other sources of money. PTAs, booster groups and non profit foundations also contribute to school budgets, but those dol lars are mostly too small to signifi cantly impact school budgets.

The vast majority of school dis trict funding comes from the state – in the past four years, about 7680 percent, with about 10-12 per

cent from local levies. (In the past two years, these proportions have slipped a few percentage points because of an increase in federal spending, much of it through the Covid-19 relief packages for K-12 education, known as Elementary and Secondary School Emergen cy Relief, or ESSER funding.)

This prioritizing of state fund ing is intentional. Washington’s state Constitution calls for the state to provide “basic education” for K-12 students. In 2012, Wash ington courts sided with two fami lies in rural Washington who sued over school funding, agreeing that the state was failing its constitu tional duty to completely fund basic education, and that local districts relied too heavily on their local voters and communities.

The lawsuit, known as Mc Cleary et al. vs. the State of Wash ington, resulted in a reformulation of how the state funds basic edu cation. The changes, put in place over 2017 and 2018, boosted the amount that the state sends to each district – but the reformula tion also changed the cap on how much a district could ask from its local taxpayers through an opera tions levy. This was done to avoid a hit to taxpayers as the funding model changed and to rebalance the share of education funding for which the state is responsible.

How does the state figure out how much money to send to schools?

While the state distributed about $14,556 per student in 2019-20, according to federal data, it’s not a one-to-one rela tionship between each student and that amount. Many factors go into the funding formula.

The size of the student popu lation is an obvious part of the equation, but other factors in clude community poverty levels, special education needs and dif ferences in the local cost of living which affects educator salaries,

which all can result in additional funding from the state.

Washington has created what it calls a “prototypical model” for schools. The state provides funding that is calculated to be adequate for a certain number of teachers, principals, librari ans, instructional aides, nurses and other staff based on student population. The Office of Super intendent of Public Instruction (OSPI), the agency that oversees K-12 public instruction in the state, then issues money to the districts based on what that min imum staffing would be.

For instance, for every 400 stu dents in grades pre-K-6, a district would receive enough funding for 1.2 building administrators such as a principal or assistant principal, 0.6 librarians, .49 guid ance counselors and 1.66 custo dians, among other staffing. The model also calls for average stu dent-to-teacher ratios, although those numbers also take into account teachers outside general education classes, such as physi cal education, art or music.

This model is often revised; for instance last year, the legislature increased the number of school counselors and nurses consid ered to be part of basic education.

State money is also augment ed in high poverty areas – where schools have to address addition al student needs – as well as in areas where the cost of living is greater, to help teachers and oth er school staff pay to keep up with the cost of living in the com munities where they work.

OSPI also allocates additional federal money to districts with high community poverty levels, and funds grants for programs for English language learners or for students enrolled in special edu cation or need other accommoda tions due to disabilities.

However, when districts get the money – from all these sourc

es – it’s up to local school boards and administrators to determine exactly how to spend it. Districts set up school and class sizes, de termine how many principals and administrators will be at each building, and how much to pay teachers, superintendents and other staff – at pay rates that are often above the salary levels set by the state, to help districts with recruitment and retention.

The districts’ operations levies can fill funding gaps to decrease class sizes, increase superin tendent or teacher salaries, add school counselors or nurses, or offer after-school tutoring pro grams to help raise academic achievement. However, districts are still spending some of their operations levy money on special education staffing or addressing other learning needs – expenses that the state budget considers covered by state and federal dol lars – instead of enhancing their “basic education” programs.

Can a local district just ask voters for more money to keep up with their local needs?

Districts are limited in how much they can ask for in local property taxes, but the reformu lation of statewide school fund ing also changed the cap on how much districts can raise through local operations levies.

In most areas, the levy cap is now at $2.50 per $1,000 of as sessed value – although districts can ask for less. The state’s largest districts – which would have lost millions of dollars from their lo cal levies after the state reformu lated school funding – have a dif ferent cap, which is determined per student.

The state also provides match ing funds to districts in areas with lower property values, but dis tricts lose those matching funds if voters reject the operations levy.

Voters can pass these tax lev ies with a simple majority of 50

percent plus one vote, but some districts have a harder time than others convincing their local voters to tax themselves. For in stance, Seattle voters approved a local operations levy by 78 per cent in February 2022, which is expected to raise $646.8 million over three years. But Kennewick school district voters have twice rejected the renewal of its local levy in February and April, which resulted in at least $5 million in cuts to the school district budget in the 2022-23 school year. The district plans to return the pro posal to voters next year, but if the operations levy continues to fail, the district may face major layoffs to cut up to $25 million from its budget, according to the Tri-City Herald.

Are these the only sources of money for school districts?

While state and federal fund ing and local levies are the main sources of districts’ general funds, districts can also go to vot ers to pay for specific needs. They can ask voters to approve capital bonds, which enable districts to borrow money for expenses such as new school construction and improvements to existing build ings. The state also matches this construction money. The thresh old for approving construction bonds is higher than for levies –bonds must get 60 percent of the vote to pass.

Some districts are also success ful with capital levies for smaller projects, which require a simple majority to pass. These include technology levies, which pay for computers, lab and class equip ment and upgraded technology. Districts can also ask voters to pass a transportation levy, to pur chase and maintain buses. None of these special enrichment levies are supposed to pay for salaries.

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Washington state revamped its K-12 funding system several years ago, but costs continue to rise

s A parent escorts a Blaine elementary student to school on the first day of classes this year.

Photo by Ian Haupt

Landscape ...

From page 10

they want to more than dou ble next year to around 20,000 square feet.

Participants for next year’s program will be selected in early 2023 and the planting installa tions will occur next fall. A neigh borhood cluster is more likely to be selected for the program if several neighbors indicate they’re interested in participating.

“Right now, we’re really fo cused on getting people signed up

and seeing what clusters we have forming in order to make deci sions next year on what neigh borhoods we’re going to choose,” Rice said. “If you’re interested, get signed up now because we will be making a decision in the next couple of months.”

Birch Bay homeowners who aren’t selected for 2023 will be reconsidered for the program in the future. For people who aren’t selected for the program, Rice encourages them to visit local plant nurseries and purchase na tive plants for their own projects. Whatcom Conservation District

will hold its native plant sale Sat urday, March 18 at Pioneer Park in Ferndale.

Rice said she anticipates the pro gram continuing as long as there is funding and community interest.

“The pilot program went well,” Rice said. “Because we had a lot of interest this year, I would an ticipate we will do the program the following year. As long as there are people interested, I an ticipate we’ll keep it.”

Birch Bay homeowners who would like to participate in next year’s native landscaping program can visit bit.ly/3Xhwt6U. For more information, contact the Whatcom Conservation District project man ager Ryan O’Connor at 360/3064701 or roconnor@whatcomcd.org.

Live within minutes to beach, marina, trails, golf and beautiful Semiahmoo landscape at every turn. Gently lived in and only 2 years “young”. Oversized Great room offers vaulted ceilings, exposed wood beams, large fireplace with tile surround and walls of windows. Kitchen with breakfast bar, walkin pantry & dining space -all facing private backyard greenspace. Upstairs features 2 generous bedrooms, plus a bonus room in the center and private full bath. Impressive amount of storage with a smart floor plan gives the home a much larger feel!

s Birch Bay resident Alan Sanders participates in the native land scaping program’s planting party on October 22.

Photo courtesy Kate Rice/Whatcom County Public Works