The Northern Light: January 19-25, 2023

Department of Commerce rejects Birch Bay library scope change

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Whatcom County Library System (WCLS) and Birch Bay library supporters are back to the drawing board after the Washington State Department of Commerce turned down a proposal to use an existing grant for a downscaled library project. WCLS can still use the state grant toward the larger library project that had been previously planned or the community can fully fund a smaller project without the grant.

Staff told the WCLS Board of Trustees at its January 17 meeting that the department of commerce had denied a scope change request to change the $6.5 million project to a $2.5 million library express. The smaller library was planned to have a small browsing collection, book return, improved parking and an ADA accessible entrance.

WCLS executive director Christine Perkins said after the meeting that WCLS wasn’t told why the department denied the scope change for a smaller library. Perkins said WCLS is exploring whether it can come up with a different proposal but is unsure if it can.

Birch Bay voters twice narrowly rejected creating a library capital facility area that would have created a taxing district to pay for $4 million of the $6.5 million library project. Voters opposed the district in the November 2021 and February 2022 elections, the latter of which failed the supermajority by only 26 votes. Last June, the trustees decided a $2.5 million interior remodel of the building to create a library express would be the best option.

If the trustees pursued the smaller library design without the state grant, Friends of Birch Bay Library (FOBBL) would need to fundraise $2.5 million. WCLS can ask the state to reallocate the $2 million grant for the $6.5 million library but that would mean FOBBL would have two years to fundraise $4.5 million. Perkins said they are not currently considering putting a taxing district before voters.

“Raising $2.5 million seems like a big stretch,” Perkins said. “Raising $5 million sounds like even more.”

FOBBL president Dianne Marrs-Smith said after the meeting that the grassroots group would ultimately go for the library design that the community wants, but she believed it would be easier to start with the smaller design. FOBBL has raised $236,000 for the library.

“We need to be clear on what we want to do. We need to say, ‘This is it. This is what we’re doing’ and we need to go for it,” Marrs-Smith said during the meeting. “We need to be able to say, ‘We’re

New Blaine city manager sworn into office

Blaine teachers with 136 years of service retire

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The Blaine school district has four veteran staff members retiring at the end of the school year. Combined, they retire with 136 years of service.

More staff members are expected to put in before the end of the year, but superintendent Christopher Granger has previously asked staff to notify the district early if they plan on retiring. The district is in the midst of budgeting issues, and these early retirement announcements will help it plan for budgeting and hiring next year, he said.

Blaine school board president Dougal Thomas said during the December 13 regular school board meeting that over 100 years of teaching experience had been put in for retirement ahead of the meeting, which the board accepted.

“I wanted to take the opportunity, on behalf of the board, to thank all those people for their service, and [to say] what it means to our community to have people like you, and what it’s going to mean to lose folks like these folks,” Thomas said during the meeting. “[These are] some big shoes to fill. So thank you.”

Bob Gray, band teacher and director, 42 years

Bob Gray graduated from Western Washington University (WWU) with a

music degree in 1981. He married his wife Dorita Gray that summer and took a job as the music teacher and band director for the Blaine school district in the fall.

Blaine’s high school band was mostly freshman and 8th graders with a few juniors and seniors at the time. Bob said the band had only 12 or 13 members his second year teaching. In those days, the pep band sometimes played with nine students while he would cover a trombone or bass drum part. Eventually, after five years, the program started turning around.

“I didn’t have any magic answers, just that I kept coming back every day,” he said. “That’s maybe my biggest strength: That I’m just too stubborn to quit.”

Bob said he didn’t intend to spend his whole career in Blaine. Part of WWU’s music program indoctrination, and its ties to Woodring College of Education, encouraged graduating students to find small school bands to lead as a stepping stone. But as the band grew, its connection with the school and community did too, so he decided to stay.

By the 1990s, Bob said the band was showing growth and, in that time, the school invested in improving what is now the Blaine Performing Arts Center. Bob said the auditorium has the best acoustics of any Whatcom County high school. The

Bellingham Symphony Orchestra, previously the Whatcom Symphony Orchestra, came to Blaine to record a project in it.

Today, the school district has a sixth grade band, seventh grade band, eighth grade band, high school jazz band, high school concert band and high school wind ensemble. The pep band plays at all home football games and at five boys and girls home basketball games.

Bob said one of his favorite memories was taking the band in the late ’90s and

s Deputy city manager Sam Crawford, l., swears in Michael Harmon as Blaine city manager in council chambers before he started his first day on the job January 17. Harmon previously worked as a chief operating officer of an electric utility provider in Wyoming and former city administrator in Spearfish, South Dakota.

Photo by Grace McCarthy

How WA’s legislature is addressing the housing crisis in 2023

Lawmakers tackle construction, subsidized housing, homeless services, zoning and renter protections

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By nearly any measure, Washington has serious housing problems.

The cost of buying and renting homes has leapt skyward. More than 25,000 people are living on the street or in emergency and transitional housing across the state, an 11 percent increase from 2020. According to the Washington Department of Commerce, the state will need to build 1 million new homes by 2044 to meet demand, and more than half of them will need to be subsidized housing affordable to low-income residents.

A new survey by the Puget Sound Regional Council and the Washington Department of Commerce found housing costs and homelessness are state residents’ top two issues. Seventy-seven percent of people said rent is too high, 75 percent said it costs too much to buy a home and 64 percent said government agencies should do more to provide housing not being built by the market.

Officials in Olympia are taking that message to heart this legislative session. Housing and homelessness are centerpieces of Governor Jay Inslee’s agenda. He is pushing for a bond measure that would generate billions of additional dollars to speed the building of subsidized affordable housing and increase homeless services.

Recognizing that there’s no silver bullet for Washington’s housing crisis, legislators and advocates are pushing a slew of bills meant to increase market-rate construction, subsidized affordable housing and renter protections.

Since the session just started Monday, not every housing bill has been introduced yet, nor will every bill survive to the end of session. But here’s a look at some of the key ways lawmakers hope to ease Washington’s housing crisis in 2023.

More for-profit construction

Representative Jessica Bateman (D-Olympia) and representative Andrew Barkis (R-Olympia) want to open the door to more “missing middle” housing – a term for duplexes, triplexes and quadplexes that fall between the single-family homes and apartment complexes Washington developers typically build.

If passed, House Bill 1110 would allow construction of up to four units on any residential lot in cities with 6,000 or more residents. If developers make two units affordable for people earning 80 percent or less of the area median income, they could build up to six units on any residential lot. On lots within a half-mile of a transit station, developers could build up to six units without the affordability requirement.

Puget Sound Regional Council’s statewide housing survey found 58 percent of people think middle housing should be allowed in single-family zones, and 66 percent said their community needs more diverse and affordable housing types.

Last year, Bateman and Barkis introduced a version of the “missing middle” bill that would have applied to cities with 20,000 or more residents, but it stalled before reaching the House floor for a vote. Some city leaders, along with the influential Association of Washington Cities (AWC), opposed state preemption of local zoning.

AWC deputy director Carl Schroeder said his organization had much earlier and more productive conversations with pro-“missing middle” legislators in the lead-up to this session. But ultimately the group still has concerns about allowing broad preemption of local zoning rules, and about the expansion of this year’s bill to apply to even more cities.

Bateman notes that if Washington’s going to meet that million-home construction goal by 2044, it needs to triple the pace of building.

“We’ve tried letting each city make their own zoning decisions for decades,” said Bateman. “It’s 2023, it hasn’t worked. We need to try a different approach. We need to be bold.”

“Missing middle” zoning is just one of many ways legislators want to speed market-rate housing construction and reduce regulatory barriers. Barkis is also sponsoring House Bill 1245 that would make it easier for homeowners to divide their property into two lots to allow someone to own their accessory dwelling unit and gain equity from it.

Another bill would eliminate design review boards for residential construction. Review boards can add months of delay to projects, which drives up costs. In a similar cost-saving scheme, Bateman plans to introduce a bill that would eliminate parking requirements for residential developments near transit, since parking can add tens of thousands of dollars per space to the cost of an apartment project.

More subsidized affordable housing

Of the million new homes Washington needs to build, more than half need to be affordable to people earning less than 50 percent of their area median income.

Of those, more than 200,000 need to be affordable to the lowest-income Washingtonians and those exiting homelessness. It’s a segment of the housing market that the private sector will never serve, meaning Washington needs significant investment in its subsidized housing stock.

Inslee wants to issue bonds to generate $4 billion for affordable housing construction and homeless services over the next six years. To make it happen, legislators will need to approve the idea this session. After that, the question would go to voters on the November ballot. The bonds would not raise taxes on Washington residents, but would temporarily push the state debt above current limits.

If it passes, the money would help pay for construction of an

additional 5,300 units of affordable housing over the next two years, beyond the 2,200 units that Inslee’s proposed 2023-2025 budget would fund. Over the subsequent six years, the bonds would help pay for construction of another 19,000 units.

A recent Crosscut/Elway poll found 52 percent support for the bond measure idea among voters statewide.

In addition to the bond measure, Inslee has voiced support for increasing density around transit stations. Noha Mahgoub, the governor’s housing policy adviser, called transit-oriented development a win-win for housing affordability and climate goals.

The transit-oriented development bill has not been introduced yet, but Mahgoub said it would increase density for residential construction near frequent transit stations. The bill would apply to both market-rate and subsidized affordable-housing construction. Market-rate developers who set aside a certain percentage of units for people earning 80 percent or less of the area median income would get a “density bonus” allowing them to build an even larger building.

A recent study by the Urban Institute helps illustrate the potential impact of transit-adjacent upzones. It looked at zoning around existing and future Sound Transit light-rail stations, and found that a third of transit-adjacent land is currently zoned for single-family housing.

Although the Association of

Washington

“It’s a very different position than we’ve had in the past, which was strongly defending against preemption,” Schroeder said. “What you’re hearing today is there’s a need to participate in these conversations.”

The state Housing Trust Fund is an essential source of money for subsidized affordable-housing construction in Washington. Funded through the capital budget, it has steadily grown over the past several years. Inslee’s proposed budget would invest $200 million in the fund, but affordable-housing advocates such as the Washington Low Income Housing Alliance want to see that number increase to $400 million. A forthcoming bill this session would increase the existing real estate excise tax on property sales and dedicate a portion of that revenue to the Housing Trust Fund.

According to Jesse Simpson, government relations manager at the Housing Development Consortium (HDC), representative Jamila Taylor (D-Federal Way) will introduce a bill this session to help close the racial gap in homeownership. Nationally, 74.6 percent of white households own their homes, compared with 45.3 percent of Black households, according to a Pew study. The bill would increase the state docu-

ment recording fee and use those revenues to help Black residents and other residents of color with down-payment assistance and the development of new affordable housing for homeownership.

New renter protections

Although rent control has been illegal in Washington since 1981 when the legislature passed a law banning it at the state and local level, housing advocates expect the Legislature to take up a new “anti-gouging bill” this session that would cap how much landlords can raise rents each year.

“This is not rent control,” said Michele Thomas with the Washington Low Income Housing Alliance. “However, it will govern the relationship between landlord and tenant and prevent landlords from gouging tenants.”

Under current law, landlords can raise the rent by any amount they wish, so long as they provide tenants with a 60-day notice. Representative Strom Peterson (D-Edmonds) has introduced House Bill 1124 to extend that notice requirement to six months. The bill would also limit the size of late fees and give tenants the right to terminate a lease early when faced with a rent increase.

Housing advocates also expect legislators to introduce a bill that would attempt to prevent landlords from using rent increases as a retaliatory measure against their tenants.

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Cities doesn’t support the “missing middle” bill, deputy director Schroeder said the organization supports upzones for transit-oriented development.

s East Blaine housing construction in March 2022.

File photo

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Blaine visitor center displays historic photos OpiniOn

The Blaine Visitor Information Center on Peace Portal Drive is commemorating Blaine’s storied past with historic photos. The city of Blaine gave the photos to the visitor center in October. They were printed at AMS Print on Grant Avenue. Blaine

The Editor:

Thank you for informing the community of those chosen for the ad hoc downtown advisory committee, and for some information about each member. This is an important committee for the future of Blaine and its character, and our community looks to them to plan a wisely chosen path for the betterment of all.

All of these members are noted to come with “pedigree.” However, to be honest, that is a bit disappointing to me. Where are the “mutts” among the committee? Those everyday people who have lived in Blaine for many years? It would have been nice to have also had some of those voices represented.

Too often those who possess “pedigree” or those called “expert” have a vast quantity of knowledge, but in that lack the quality of understanding. There is a big difference between knowledge and understanding. The insulated world of experts too often also tends to be specialized versus holistic, lack perspective, is theoretical versus practical, and are those who don’t walk their talk. Say this isn’t so with this committee.

Those ideas that will be offered to the city and the work of the committee are both appreciated. Let’s hope though that this “pedigree” has the ability to speak for the “mutts” or else we’re back in the same old boat with no one really listening

Chamber of Commerce executive director Sheila Wood said the photos are expected to be lasting artwork in the center.

“People can take a minute to check them out and look into Blaine’s history,” Wood said.

Photos include the Peace Arch dedication

Letters

to what I hear as a majority sentiment in Blaine. We like the seaside, quiet character of our community. We don’t need or want more and bigger, but do need some things to be better.

Your challenge more than anything else, ad hoc committee, is not to just to speak for this community, but to listen to and to understand it. Then to act on those two qualities to make Blaine an even better place to call home.

Ray Leone Blaine

The Editor:

I would like to thank you for posting the Blaine Community Organization for Resources and Education (CORE) class on Mason Bees 101 that was held at Blaine Library last Saturday.

We had a great turnout of interested folks – 28 to be exact. I always ask at the beginning of the class how attendees found out about the class and the overwhelming result was from reading about it in The Northern Light. Thanks again! I am looking forward to another great class on sprouting this coming Saturday.

Kelle A. Rankin-Sunter Blaine CORE coordinator Blaine

The Editor:

For the first time in 15 years, the Ameri-

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.

in 1921, the old Alaska Packers Association (APA) cannery on Semiahmoo Spit, and APA’s tall ship called “Star of Greenland.”

The visitor center, 546 Peace Portal Drive, is open from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Saturday and 1-4 p.m. Sunday

can Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) has published comprehensive guidelines on treating children with obesity, recommending more intensive treatment options including therapy and medication.

The AAP also states that severely obese children 13 years and up should be evaluated for weight loss surgery.

Weight loss surgery for kids? We need to focus more effectively on prevention before they are subjected to bariatric surgery – which has a slew of drawbacks and risks, in my opinion. Two letter writers to this publication have highlighted the necessity to address the ballooning epidemic of diabetes. A local diabetologist, Dr. Sandhya Gelou, wrote about the urgent need for diabetes prevention. Another writer made a

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

Correction

In the January 12 issue of The Northern Light, an article on Washington State Parks free days incorrectly stated which state-managed lands don’t require Discover Passes on free days. DNR and WDFW lands participate in the free days. We regret the error.

Blaine-Birch Bay Park and Recreation: Second Tuesday, 5:30 p.m., location varies. Info: bbbparkandrec.org.

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 Historic photos line the walls at Blaine Visitor Information Center. 546 Peace Portal Drive. Photo by Grace McCarthy

BPD officer receives life-saving service award

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Blaine Police Department (BPD) officer Keith Olson was acknowledged last month for his exceptional service that saved the life of an individual experiencing a fentanyl overdose.

The city of Blaine and BPD presented Olson with a life-saving-service plaque December 21, 2022, to show appreciation for his quick and accurate assessment of the situation. Olson used multiple doses of naloxone, known by its brand name Narcan, to reverse the effects of an overdose on October 22, 2022, BPD spokesperson Tami Bhachu told The Northern Light in an email.

Just before midnight, BPD was notified of an unconscious individual in the 700 block of E Street. Not originally dispatched, Bhachu said officers responded anyway, as general practice. An update minutes later notified BPD that CPR was in progress

and naloxone was needed.

Officers arrived at the residence and entered through an open back door. A juvenile female told them the individual wasn’t breathing upstairs. Officers found a man administering CPR on the unresponsive individual.

Olson gave the individual an initial dose of naloxone. When he learned the person had taken fentanyl, Olson gave them additional doses. Officers stood by as the naloxone began to take effect. They cleared when North Whatcom Fire and Rescue personnel arrived.

Naloxone can be given as a nasal spray or by injection into muscle, under skin or into veins, according to the National Institute on Drug Abuse, a U.S. federal government research institute.

Olson has been with BPD since February 2019. Officer Katelyn Lyons and sergeant Skylar Deffinbaugh were also involved in the response.

WCSO seeking tips on Birch Bay break-in suspects

A Birch Bay Drive home was broken into around 5:30 p.m. January 11, and Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office (WCSO) is asking residents to report any information they have on the incident.

Deputies responded to a residential burglary report in the 7000 block of Birch Bay Drive, according to a January 17 WCSO Facebook post. The suspects fled the scene, but the homeowners were able to supply video footage of the break-in, which was included in the post. The suspects’ identity remained unknown as of January 17.

Residents can report information to WCSO’s tip line at 360/778-6663 and should reference case number 23A01201 when doing so.

Both suspects were caught on a Ring home security camera in the front yard of the property while one was prying the front door open. The video, which can be viewed at bit.ly/3INwue6, shows

Letters ...

From previous page

persuasive case that the epidemic of diabetes should be on the public health agenda.

I agree with both writers – get to the root causes of overweight and obesity. The too-little, toolate model must come to a halt.

One program in our county that operates in some schools is Common Threads Farm, commonthreadsfarm.org. The nonprofit has a common sense approach to help ensure our kids can lead their healthiest lives possible: “When kids eat better, they learn better, act better, and feel better.”

Another community outreach program called “Ask a Nurse” developed by Health Ministries

the suspect trying to open the door for over a minute.

The male suspect was wearing a navy blue rain jacket, black hat, gray neck gaiter and red gloves.

Network is making inroads in our vulnerable populations on diabetes education and management. The Mount Baker Foundation mounted a kidney health and diabetes awareness program.

Those organizations can’t do it alone. The Whatcom County Health Department must adopt diabetes prevention (which includes obesity) as a public health initiative. Our county medical groups – obviously, by extension local pediatricians – must offer in-person behavior and lifestyle treatment, including coaching on nutrition, physical activity and changes in behavior, such as role modeling by parents.

Yes, that would take time. Well, we’d better find the time, or our kids lose.

Sheri Lambert Laurel

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.

Thursday, January 19 9:00am – Ad Hoc Downtown Advisory Committee Meeting

Monday, January 23 4:30pm – Study Session: OPMA/PRA Training 6:00pm – City Council Meeting

Tuesday, January 24 3:30pm – Civil Service Commission Meeting

Thursday, February 2 9:00am – Ad Hoc Downtown Advisory Committee Meeting

Thursday, February 9 6:00pm – Planning Commission Meeting

Contact information for staff and Councilmembers can be found on the City’s website.

Call (360) 332-8311 or visit our website. www.cityofblaine.com

He also has a white scarf, cloth bag around his neck. The other suspect also wore face coverings and a geometric-patterned jacket, brown pants and white shoes.

s A screenshot of video footage captured of a suspect trying to break into a home on Birch Bay Drive at 5:30 p.m. January 11. Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office set up a tip line to report any information on the break-in. Image courtesy Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office

s Blaine Police Department officer Keith Olson receives a life-saving service plaque on December 21, 2022. Courtesy photo

Bomb threat closes Peace Arch border crossing

A bomb threat closed the Peace Arch border crossing in both directions for 90 minutes on the evening of January 14.

A U.S. traveler indicated there was a bomb in their vehicle when attempting to enter Canada at the Peace Arch border crossing around 8 p.m. January 14, said Canada Border Services Agency spokesperson Karine Martel in an email to The Northern Light . The police inspected the threat while vehicles already in line to enter the Peace Arch border crossing were let in through the NEXUS lane. Northbound and southbound traffic was rerouted to the Pacific Highway border crossing, Martel said.

Police declared the vehicle was safe and the driver was processed

before being returned to the U.S., Martel said. The border crossing reopened by 9:30 p.m.

Larsen, DelBene call for USPS to address mail delays in Whatcom County

U.S. representatives Rick Larsen and Suzan DelBene have called on United States Postal Service (USPS) postmaster general Louis DeJoy to address persistent mail delays and failures in Whatcom County.

Larsen and DelBene sent a letter January 11 to DeJoy after receiving a number of complaints from constituents, starting in mid-December, regarding significant delays in mail delivery and complete lack of service in parts of Bellingham, Ferndale, Lynden and other areas of Whatcom County.

“While brief delays due to weather and the busy holiday period are understandable, many constituents reported no mail delivery for over a week,” Larsen and DelBene wrote in the letter. “Concerningly, we also heard reports that USPS employees in these areas were asked to prioritize package delivery over other types of mail, even though our constituents reported missed paychecks, medication, court notices, and other important items.”

The lawmakers had previously written to DeJoy in July 2022 to request updates on USPS’s efforts to increase staffing amid severe workforce shortages in the area.

In the January letter, Larsen and DelBene said they appreciated the steps taken, which included local hiring days and a statewide hiring fair in December 2022, but that the efforts were insufficient as delays continued. They asked DeJoy to provide a list of steps USPS took to ensure timely mail delivery during peak periods and how it is addressing its workforce shortage. The lawmakers also requested the specific USPS policy that requires employees to prioritize package delivery over letters, flats and other mail classes.

Larsen and DelBene said in the letter they are also concerned about the retention rate of USPS employees amid reports of inadequate supervisor training, an often months-long hiring process that discourages interested applicants, and unpredictable and long work hours that put the health and safety of current employees at risk.

To address such issues, the representatives asked how USPS is improving communication with constituents, training employees and supervisors, and what additional resources Congress can provide to help USPS address the issues.

Blaine Chamber of Commerce asks for city support after successful 2022

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After a busy year of hosting several events with record-breaking turnout, Blaine Chamber of Commerce president Tim Woodard asked Blaine City Council for additional support during its January 9 meeting.

New events such as the Blaine Art Studio Tour and art gala, downtown summer concerts and Blaine Oyster Festival attracted people to the Blaine area, Woodard said. The chamber estimates around 25,000 to 28,000 people attended chamber events in 2022.

According to the chamber, the biggest events were the Old Fashioned Fourth of July with 12,000 to 15,000 attendees, Wings Over Water Northwest Birding Festival with 3,000 attendees, oyster festival with 2,000 attendees, and the art tour gala and Holiday Harbor Lights both with 500 attendees. The farmers market also attracted 500 people monthly.

“In 2022, we had a record year for events,” Woodard said at the meeting. “We’d like to continue that and grow further.”

Woodard asked council to consider future approval of additional traffic control, police and emergency medical services for events expected to have over 500 people.

The chamber experienced several incidents that needed more patrol including vendors who didn’t get along and drivers passing street barricades, Woodard said.

“We’ve had a few close calls with individuals who have

slipped or tripped. We had an incident in December when a little child was burned,” Woodard said. “Things like that make us worried and [we want to] make sure we provide a safe environment for the public.”

Mayor Mary Lou Steward said she was surprised to realize there wasn’t a first aid station when she was helping a child who fell during the Fourth of July festival.

“Clearly if you’re going to have 12 to 15,000 people in the middle of the summer, you’re going to need a first aid station as part of your planning,” Steward said.

Blaine police chief Donnell Tanksley said all Blaine Police Department (BPD) officers are required to work on the Fourth of July. Tanksley said he requested assistance from Washington State Patrol, which oversees Peace Portal Drive, but was denied assistance. “It is a struggle,” he said.

Blaine’s Auxiliary Communications Service (ACS), a volunteer group trained to help BPD during special events and emergencies, helps police during the Fourth of July. The group works as flaggers even though they aren’t certified, he said, adding ACS has fewer volunteers now.

“We’re certainly willing to work with you all to see how we could do better and to see how we could better mitigate those different traffic circumstances,” Tanksley said. “But it’s certainly all hands on deck during the Fourth of July.”

Jonathan Ahrenholz, North

Whatcom Fire and Rescue (NWFR) division chief of operations, said after the meeting that there’s no set number of expected attendees to trigger additional NWFR staffing for an event. Instead, the district decides whether to attend based on past events and the number of calls associated with those events.

NWFR typically has a vehicle on both ends of Blaine’s Fourth of July parade but wasn’t able to attend in 2021 or 2022 due to lack of personnel. Ahrenholz said NWFR hired five firefighters in the fall and has another five going through training now so it will almost be fully staffed by July.

“We’re open to having a presence in the community,” he said. “If someone requests us, we’ll typically go out there.”

Woodard also asked for the chamber’s executive director position to increase from part-time to full-time. Woodard said the director spends about 70 percent of their time planning city events, 20 percent managing the Blaine Visitor Information Center and 10 percent on chamber activities. He said executive director Sheila Wood will be leaving the chamber this month and they will soon be looking for a new director.

“Think about the return on investment we get on city funds from the very small line item that we are, what it creates, and that knock-on effect it has with other city businesses,” chamber vice president James Danger said.

Amtrak to add second round-trip to Vancouver in March

Starting March 7, Amtrak will provide a second round-trip to Vancouver, B.C. that will restore the train service to pre-pandemic levels.

Amtrak announced the trip return in a letter to the Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) and the Oregon Department of Transportation, according to an announcement from U.S. Senator Maria Cantwell’s (D-WA) office.

Amtrak will also add two daily

trips from Seattle to Portland, Oregon, this fall, increasing the total daily trips on that route to six, the announcement said. The company brought back one of the two Seattle to Vancouver routes last September.

WSDOT announced in midDecember 2022 that Amtrak Cascades trains will have a new fleet in 2026. In addition to a new design, the fleet’s eight trainsets and two locomotives

will be more fuel efficient, have improved amenities such as individual outlets, touchless restroom controls and onboard WiFi. The trains will also have panoramic views and a redesigned café bar, according to WSDOT.

Over 750,000 people annually rode Amtrak Cascades, which services 18 stops in B.C., Washington and Oregon, before the pandemic.

s The Amtrak Cascades trainsets will have Mt. Rainier and Mt. Hood graphics on each car and will follow an evergreen and mocha color scheme. Image courtesy Washington State Department of Transportation

s Peace Arch border crossing.

Photo by Ruth Lauman

Sports roundup: Blaine hosts girls wrestling invite, winter sports continue

B y I an h aupt

Boys basketball

The Borderites took their first conference defeat at home January 12 to a dominant Lynden Lions performance. Lynden senior Coston Parcher and junior Anthony Canales combined for 53 points in the Blaine High School gymnasium as Blaine’s shooters struggled against the defending 2A state champions. The game finished 75-47.

Junior Noah Tavis led Blaine with 14 points. Seniors Mathew Russ, Lucas Smith and Carson Lehnert finished with nine, six and four points.

The Blaine boys bounced back on the road, taking a 90-49 win over Mount Baker High School January 16.

The Borderites will host Burlington-Edison Friday, January 20. The game is also a mini-cheer night. The team will then travel to Mount Vernon Monday, Jan-

uary 23 and host 1A defending state champions Lynden Christian Thursday, January 26. Both games are at 7:15 p.m. The boys are 11-2 so far this season and 8-1 in conference.

Girls basketball

The Lady Borderites fell behind early to Mount Baker January 16 in the Blaine High School gymnasium and never fully recovered, losing 40-35. The girls fought back in the third and fourth quarters, but each time the gap came within five points, the Mountaineers found a basket.

Blaine came into the game on the back of a 62-21 loss on the road to Lynden January 12.

The team will travel to Burlington-Edison High School Friday, January 20 and host Mount Vernon Monday, January 23. Both games are at 7:15 p.m.

The girls are 3-11 so far this season and 1-9 in conference.

Boys wrestling

The boys will travel to the Quin-

cy Mat Animal Boys Wrestling Tournament Saturday, January 21 for a multi-school invitational meet at Quincy High School.

Girls wrestling

The girls wrestling team hosted the multi-school Borderite Blizzard Tournament this past weekend in the Blaine High School gymnasium. Blaine took fifth out of 19 teams. Senior Genesis Vazquez and junior Milania Rodriguez won their respective weight classes. Junior Lucy Dahl and freshman Analicea Ordonez both took third in their weight class.

The team will compete at the Othello Lady Huskies Invite this weekend. Competition starts at 4 p.m. Friday, January 20 and 9 a.m. Saturday, January 21 at Othello High School.

Girls bowling Blaine girls bowling team will compete next in postseason competition. Playoffs start 1 p.m. Tuesday, January 24 at Riverside Lanes in Mount Vernon.

s Milania Rodriguez on the mat in the Blaine Blizzard tournament January 14.

Photo by Michelle Rodriguez

s Deja Dube in Blaine’s 40-35 loss to Mount Baker January 16 in the Blaine High School gymnasium. Photo by Ian Haupt

Teachers ...

From page 1

early 2000s to boys basketball’s two consecutive 2A state championships, led by Luke Ridnour, at the Yakima Valley SunDome. He said people recognized the band and would stay during halftime to listen to them play.

Bob has taken the wind ensemble to Japan five times, where the band played at the Funabashi Music Festival in Funabashi. He said the bands and musicians at the festival always inspired them, but the real life-changing experience is that the students lived with a host family for 10 days. Bob said many of the students return to visit their host family and some teach English in Japan. He said some of the host families have even traveled to Blaine to watch their “American child” graduate from high school.

Bob has played for the Bellingham Symphony Orchestra for 35 years. He currently sits as the sole bass trombone.

Upon retirement, Bob said he hopes to take a road trip with Dorita. He said he would like to see Zion National Park in October, when there’s a chance of snow. He would also like to return to Japan. But he said, most importantly, he will be supporting Dorita as she starts a new trial of cancer treatment.

“I couldn’t have done what I do, especially spending the excessive time with early rehearsals, or sectionals after school, or taking on trips and things like that, if [Dorita] wasn’t there,” Bob said.

Bob and Dorita live in Ferndale.

Neil Nix, high school English teacher, 38 years

Neil Nix came to the Blaine school district from the Richland school district in 1985. He grew up in Kennewick, attended school at North Idaho College in Coeur d’Alene, Idaho, and received his degree from the University of Montana. He received a master’s degree from Washington State University.

Nix installed the first computer network at the school district, using copper wire, in the mid1980s. He said his dad was a technician and supplied him the tools. He did it after hours and set up email for teachers. At the time, he said people in the district were skeptical.

“‘What are you going to do with that?’” he recounted them asking. “Now we can hardly think of not doing it.”

Within a couple of years, the district had a full computer network set up across the district, he said.

Nix said he has mostly taught English over the years, but he has also taught history, Advanced Placement (AP) government, AP economics, algebra and geometry.

“I have one of the old certificates that allows me to teach any subject,” Nix said with a laugh. “They don’t do those anymore.”

Nix has secured over $1 million in grant funding for the school district over 20 years. He said he stopped counting after reaching $1 million.

Those grants have funded AP classes, advisory programs and GEAR UP, which is a competitive federal program that provides sixand seven-year grants to increase

the number of low-income students who are prepared to succeed in postsecondary education, according to its website. He is also the district director for the Advancement Via Individual Determination (AVID) program, a college readiness program implemented in more than 7,000 schools across the U.S., according to its website.

“It’s really for students in the middle, and it’s to teach them how to succeed after high school,” Nix said. “So the students are pretty motivated.”

Nix said there are also great teacher training programs through AVID, which Blaine teachers attended through grant funding.

Nix has taught night classes at Whatcom Community College and other community colleges while teaching at Blaine. He previously taught kindergarteners and their mothers German in Richland. He also coached Blaine wrestling and cross country for multiple years.

Nix said he plans to read and “dabble” in writing during retirement. He said he enjoys Shakespeare. He also hopes to travel, do some woodworking and exercise more.

Nix has four adult children who live in Washington. He lives in Birch Bay.

Dan Steelquist, middle school science teacher, 36 years

Dan Steelquist started teaching in the Blaine school district in 1987. He graduated from WWU and moved up to Blaine with his wife Sue Steelquist when they started having children. Sue taught in the district for 38 years and retired last year. Sue taught first and fourth grade and did enrichment work before teaching kindergarten.

“We’ve looked elsewhere, but this is home,” Dan said. “We’re both Seattle transplants and got drawn to Whatcom County. And then landed here, and met some incredible people that we get to work with, and so we figured, ‘Let’s stay here.’”

Dan worked for four years at the elementary school before moving to the middle school. He’s taught language arts, social studies and math. He didn’t originally plan on teaching middle school – like most who end up in the middle school, he said. He said he enjoys the transitional age of middle school and it fits his personality well. There are certainly difficult moments, he said, but the good ones outweigh them.

“It’s a pretty special group of people to be around,” Dan said.

Dan has been a coach in the district longer than he’s been a teacher. While he was student teaching, he started coaching in the district. He stopped last year, making it 38 years. He coached girls varsity soccer for 16 years and boys varsity soccer for 11 years as well as middle school soccer and other sports.

Dan has led 26 groups of eighth-graders to the San Francisco Bay Area over the years – a program that restarted this year since the Covid-19 pandemic. The program gets kids, many who may have never flown before, out of a small town and introduces them to traveling through a safe environment.

“My goal there is to get them to think about what they might be interested in after high school

before they even get into high school, so they can set their sights on big things,” Dan said.

Dan said he currently has some students whose parents he taught. He said those are some of the victories: Seeing the joy in their family. He also said one of his favorite feelings is having a classroom grasp the main idea of a lesson after leading them through it. “That’s really satisfying,” he said.

Dan said he and Sue will stay in Blaine. He may come back to the district as a volunteer, but hopes to do some traveling in the meantime. Dan and Sue take bike-touring trips in Europe. They have three kids, two are on track to become doctors and one recently finished a doctorate degree in geology.

Richard Shockey, career counselor, 20 years Richard Shockey grew up in McMinnville, Oregon. He went fishing in Pacific City, Oregon, during the summer with his father, who was a teacher. After high school, he went to school for two years in Oregon and then moved to Bellingham in 1978. He fished commercially full time in the area and in Alaska and California through the 1980s.

In 1992, he went back to school to get a teaching certificate while he worked in the grocery business. He started working at Blaine High School in 2003.

Shockey worked in the high school career center for 17 years, preparing students for college

and post-high school careers. He has also taught summer school for 15 years.

Since the pandemic, Shockey has transitioned to working as a para-educator at the middle school.

“Seeing [students] succeed, getting something completed,” Shockey said will be his favorite memories. “That’s the big thing for me. It’s not one big thing. It’s just 20 years of little things that I’m going to be able to remember.”

Shockey coached boys junior varsity golf for about eight years and has been the varsity coach for five. He also works

the scoreboard for football and basketball games.

Shockey was adamant on giving more attention to the other teachers retiring. “They’re the giants,” he said, but he’s had his own influence.

“I’ve had kids come and say, ‘You know, if it wasn’t for you, I wouldn’t have gotten this job or I wouldn’t have been able to do that,’” Shockey said. “But that’s what I got paid to do.”

Upon retiring, Shockey said he’s looking forward to going fishing in Homer, Alaska, and spending time with his kids and grandchildren.

s Bob Gray stands out of a sunroof for a parade in downtown Blaine.

Courtesy photo

s Dan Steelquist works with students in his class on January 10.

Photo by Lisa Moeller

s Neil Nix, l., and daughter Mackenzie Nix at graduation in 2007. Courtesy photo

which focuses on big and high-intensity movements that counteract the small and slow movements that typically develop with PD. This is a treatment protocol, backed by evidence, shown to improve walking speed, stride, bed mobility, balance, and daily function in people with PD. Just because you were recently diagnosed with PD doesn’t mean you have to give up an active and healthy life. Capstone is conveniently located at seven locations throughout Whatcom County and is accepting new patients at our Birch Bay Square location and our Blaine clinic off H street.

What’s

a

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, residency, annual income, and general banking information.

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.

Q: Are you concerned about inflation and the current market correction?

A: Inflation can be scary as your paycheck is buying less. And watching investment accounts go down can also be difficult. Many challenges have kept the stock market in a volatile state for most of 2022. But there are a few silver linings to help you get through this year. First, as the Federal Reserve is raising interest rates, your reserve cash can earn generous returns for a guaranteed investment in a certificate of deposit. Six-month and nine-month CD’s are earning around 4.5%. Some liquid money market accounts are earning 2.5% to 3%. Second, if you have a financial plan this can be modeled for higher inflation rates. If your plan is still successful you may be more at ease. While market corrections are unsettling in the moment, they are far less significant for a long-term financial plan. At Skyline Advisors we can help you navigate these tumultuous financial conditions. Skyline Advisors, Inc. is a Registered Investment Adviser. Past performance is no guarantee of future returns. Investing involves risk and possible loss of principal capital. No advice may be rendered by Skyline Advisors, Inc. unless a client service agreement is in place. Skyline Advisors, Inc.

405 32nd Street, Suite 201, Bellingham (360) 671-1621 www.myskylineadvisor.com

Q: Is Winter a Good Time to Sell My Home?

A: Winter is a great time to sell your home for several reasons. One, recent inflation data shows us that things are looking more stable for buyers. Two, while it always depends on the market, inventory is notoriously low in the winter, which can be an advantage to those selling in the winter months. Finally, many buyers gear up to buy in the new year after having a difficult time searching for a new home during the busy summer months. Overall, winter can be an ideal time for sellers to list their homes. If you would like more information about buying or selling real estate, please call us at 360-922-0102, email info@peacearchrealestate.com, or visit our website at www.peacearchrealestate.com.

Deka Wiebusch

is not in the business of providing specific tax advice. Clients are encouraged to engage a tax professional for specific tax questions and recommendations. CD and money market rates change daily and were as of December 1, 2022, available through Charles Schwab. Money Markets are not FDIC insured.

the difference between pre-qualification and pre-approval for

From page 1

FOBBL

WCLS in the next few weeks asking whether they wanted to reappropriate the state funding. Cox said WCLS could reapply for the funds in the future, but Perkins warned that had its caveats.

fundraisers

year including an online Love Your Library campaign in February, bocce ball tournament and BBQ this summer and will attend Birch Bay Chamber of Commerce’s special events.

“We would love to improve services in Birch Bay and hopefully the Birch Bay community is able to find a way to support a facility there,” WCLS deputy director Michael Cox said. “We want to help that effort as much as possible but ultimately the model in the Whatcom County Library System is that the local communities provide the facilities that we provide services in.” Cox said he expected the department of commerce would contact

The state gave the grant during the first round of funding for the Library Capital Improvement Program when the criteria for selecting grants wasn’t fully developed and had fewer strings attached. Perkins said one of the top criteria now is to be a distressed county and Whatcom County is not. FOBBL will now need to have 50 percent of the funds ready before receiving the state grant, Cox said.

“We would need to determine if we’re going to try to go for the initial big project, or are we going to try asking if we can go for a scope change request,” Cox said. “Or do we wait until the time is right to apply again for the same type of funding but with the new project we have in mind?”

In 2017, WCLS purchased the Vogt family homestead at 7968 Birch Bay Drive to replace the Birch Bay bookmobile as the population grew. The Birch Bay population has increased from 8,500 to 12,000 people since the library project began, Perkins said during the meeting. The Birch Bay library location is farther from the Blaine or Ferndale libraries than the Lynden library is from Everson, Cox said.

WCLS is not planning on selling the Birch Bay library property right now, according to a January 17 WCLS news release.

“I’d be interested in how these efforts coincide with other efforts that are being put forward and how do we keep support for Birch Bay while maintaining support for other projects, especially Blaine and other efforts that WCLS is moving forward,” trustee Matthew Santos said. “How much are we asking of the community and how do we keep that support?”

Common conditions affecting house cats

Cats are beloved pets across the globe. In 2020, there were roughly 53 million pet cats in the U.S. and Canada combined.

Cats are admired for their cando attitudes. They’re independent, quirky and often clever.

While some people may describe cats as aloof, plenty of pet cats desire daily affection and cuddle sessions with their pet parents.

It’s important for cat owners to familiarize themselves with common feline behaviors and

personality traits. That familiarity can help cat owners recognize when something may be “off” with their cats. While cats are good at self-care, there are times when owners must step in and offer assistance.

Here’s a look at common conditions that can affect pet cats.

• Tick-borne diseases: Cats may not spend as much time outdoors as dogs, but they still can pick up ticks if they are let out from time to time or cohabitate in homes with dogs. Ticks can carry various illnesses, but bobcat fever (cytauxzoonosis) is one to be concerned about. It’s quite serious and often fatal.

• Feline immunodeficiency virus (FIV): This slow-acting virus may not be noticeable until the disease makes the cat ill years after initial infection. A weakened immune system can open the cat up to a number of other illnesses and secondary infections.

With good care, a cat could live months or years before the chronic stages of FIV.

• Vomiting: Cats groom themselves and can get fur stuck in their throats and digestive tracts, producing hairballs that are ultimately spit up. However, cats may vomit for other reasons, including ingesting something poisonous or dangerous, like string.

Cats that are vomiting often become dehydrated, which could lead to a medical emergency.

• Feline urinary tract diseases (FLUTD): The pets division of WebMD indicates roughly 3 percent of cats visiting vets are diagnosed with FLUTD. Cats can develop it for a variety of reasons, including stress in a household, eating dry food, and being overweight. It’s always an emergency if a cat can’t urinate or has pain doing so.

• Fleas: Cat owners may lament fleas, as they can be a problem

and spread fast. A cat is at risk of developing anemia if it becomes infested with fleas. Topical treatments and oral medications can help prevent or eradicate fleas.

• Heartworm: The ASPCA warns that, like dogs, cats can get heartworm from mosquito bites. Despite its name, heartworm primarily causes lung disease in cats.

• High-rise syndrome: Cats that reside in urban areas in multistory homes may be susceptible to falls. Windows without screens or where screens are not well-secured can pose risks to curious cats who want to take in the sun and fresh air. Falls can cause serious injuries, even death. The problem has become so prevalent that vets gave the condition the name “high-rise syndrome.”

Cats are susceptible to various illnesses and injuries. Awareness of these conditions can help cat owners protect their cats more effectively.

s The Birch Bay library property at 7968 Birch Bay Drive.

Photo by Grace McCarthy

IN THE SUPERIOR COURT OF THE STATE OF WASHINGTON IN AND FOR THE COUNTY OF Whatcom In Re the Estate of Milton E. Houser, Deceased. NO. 22 4 01164 37. PROBATE NOTICE TO CREDITORS. (RCW 11.40.030) JUDGE: Robert E. Olson

The personal representative named below has been appointed as personal representative of this estate. Any person having a claim against the decedent must, before the time the claim would be barred by any otherwise applicable statute of limitations, present the claim in the manner as provided in RCW 11.40.070 by serving on or mailing to the personal representative or the personal representative’s attorney at the address stated below a copy of the claim and filing the original of the claim with the court in which the probate proceedings were commenced. The claim must be presented within the later of: (1) Thirty days after the personal representative served or mailed the notice to the creditor as provided under RCW 11.40.020(1)(c); or (2) four months after the date of first publication of the notice. If the claim is not presented within this time frame, the claim is forever barred, except as otherwise provided in RCW 11.40.051 and 11.40.060. This bar is effective as to claims against both the decedent’s probate and nonprobate assets.

Date of First Publication: January 12, 2023

Personal Representative: Michael L. Houser 40531 145th Pl. SE Gold Bar, WA 98251-9512

Attorney for the Personal Representative: Katti Esp 301 Prospect Street Bellingham, WA 98225

Address for Mailing or Service: Katti Esp 301 Prospect Street Bellingham, WA 98225

Court of Probate Proceedings Superior Court of Whatcom County and Cause Number: Cause No. 22 4 01164 37

IN THE SUPERIOR COURT OF THE STATE OF WASHINGTON IN AND FOR THE COUNTY OF Whatcom In Re the Estate of Charlene Ambrose, Deceased. NO. 22-4-00692-37. PROBATE NOTICE TO CREDITORS. (RCW 11.40.030) JUDGE: David E. Freeman

The personal representative named below has been appointed as personal representative of this estate. Any person having a claim against the decedent must, before the time the claim would be barred by any otherwise applicable statute of limitations, present the claim in the manner as provided in RCW 11.40.070 by serving on or mailing to the personal representative or the personal representative’s attorney at the address stated below a copy of the claim and filing the original of the claim with the court in which the probate proceedings were commenced. The claim must be presented within the later of: (1) Thirty days after the personal representative served or mailed the notice to the creditor as provided under RCW 11.40.020(1)(c); or (2) four months after the date of first publication of the notice. If the claim is not presented within this time frame, the claim is forever barred, except as otherwise provided in RCW 11.40.051 and 11.40.060. This bar is effective as to claims against both the decedent’s probate and nonprobate assets.

Date of First Publication:

IN THE SUPERIOR COURT OF THE STATE OF WASHINGTON IN AND FOR WHATCOM COUNTY In re the Estate of: ROBERT DAVID BULLIVANT, Deceased. No. 22-4-01200-37 NOTICE TO CREDITORS.

Judge David E. Freeman

The Personal Representative named below has been appointed and has qualified as Personal Representative of this estate. Any person having a claim against the decedent must, before the time the claim would be barred by any otherwise applicable statute of limitations, present the claim in the manner as provided in RCW 11.40.070 by serving on or mailing to the Personal Representative or the Personal Representative’s attorney at the address stated below a copy of the claim and filing the original of the claim with the court in which the probated proceedings were commenced.

The claim must be presented within the later of: (1) thirty days after the Personal Representative served or mailed the notice to the creditor as provided under RCW 11.40.020(1)(c); or (2) four months after the date of first publication of the notice. If the claim is not presented within this time frame, the claim is forever barred, except as otherwise provided in RCW 11.40.051 and 11.40.060. This bar is effective as to claims against both the decedent’s probate and nonprobate assets.

Date of Filing of Notice to Creditors: December 16, 2022 with Clerk of Court:

Date of First Publication: January 5, 2023

Name of Personal Representative: GORDON JAMES BULLIVANT

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: December 16, 2022.

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

Attorney for Personal Representative: GORDON JAMES BULLIVANT

IN THE SUPERIOR COURT OF THE STATE OF WASHINGTON IN AND FOR WHATCOM COUNTY In re the Estate of: JOHN CORBETT LEEDS III, Deceased. No. 224-01192-37. NOTICE TO CREDITORS.

Judge Robert E. Olson

The Administrator named below has been appointed and has qualified as Administrator of this estate. Any person having a claim against the decedent must, before the time the claim would be barred by any otherwise applicable statute of limitations, present the claim in the manner as provided in RCW 11.40.070 by serving on or mailing to the Administrator or the Administrator’s attorney at the address stated below a copy of the claim and filing the original of the claim with the court in which the probated proceedings were commenced. The claim must be presented within the later of: (1) thirty days after the Administrator served or mailed the notice to the creditor as provided under RCW 11.40.020(1)(c); or (2) four months after the date of first publication of the notice. If the claim is not presented within this time frame, the claim is forever barred, except as otherwise provided in RCW 11.40.051 AND 11.40.060. This bar is effective as to claims against both the decedent’s probate and nonprobate assets.

Date of Filing of Notice to Creditors: December 16, 2022 with Clerk of Court:

Date of First Publication: January 5, 2023

Name of Administrator: CINDY MAXWELL

Attorney for Administrators: Steven D. Avery, WSBA #35262

Address for Mailing or Service: Avery Elder Law, P.S. 801 Samish Way, Ste. 202 Bellingham WA 98229

Telephone: (360) 325-2550

Email: steve@averyelderlaw.com

DATED: December 16, 2022

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

Attorney for Administrator: CINDY MAXWELL www.averyelderlaw.com

NO. 21-4-00942-37. PROBATE NOTICE

TO CREDITORS (RCW 11.40.030) JUDGE: Robert E. Olson

The personal representative named below has been appointed as personal representative of this estate. Any person having a claim against the decedent must, before the time the claim would be barred by any otherwise applicable statute of limitations, present the claim in the manner as provided in RCW 11.40.070 by serving on or mailing to the personal representative or the personal representative’s attorney at the address stated below a copy of the claim and filing the original of the claim with the court in which the probate proceedings were commenced. The claim must be presented within the later of: (1) Thirty days after the personal representative served or mailed the notice to the creditor as provided under RCW 11.40.020(1)(c); or (2) four months after the date of first publication of the notice. If the claim is not presented within this time frame, the claim is forever barred, except as otherwise provided in RCW 11.40.051 and 11.40.060. This bar is effective as to claims against both the decedent’s probate and nonprobate assets.

Date of First Publication: January 19, 2023

Personal Representative: Vanessa Bell 1026 Brighton Crest Lane Bellingham, WA 98229

Attorney for the Personal Representative: Katti Esp 301 Prospect Street Bellingham, WA 98225

Address for Mailing or Service: Katti Esp 301 Prospect Street Bellingham, WA 98225

Court of Probate Proceedings Superior Court of Whatcom County and Cause Number: Cause No. 21 4 00942 37

IN THE SUPERIOR COURT OF THE STATE OF WASHINGTON IN AND FOR THE COUNTY OF WHATCOM In the matter of the Estate of HARRY MAXMILLAN POLLARD, Deceased. No. 22-4-01234-37. PROBATE NOTICE TO CREDITORS. (RCW 11.40.030) JUDGE LEE GROCHMAL

The Personal Representative named below has been appointed as Personal Representative of the above estate. Any person having a claim against the deceased HARRY MAXMILLAN POLLARD must, before the time the claim would be barred by any otherwise applicable statute of limitations, present the claim in the manner provided by RCW 11.40.070 by serving on or mailing to the Personal Representative or the Personal Representative’s Attorney at the address stated below, a copy of the claim, and filing the original of the claim with the Court in which the probated proceedings have commenced. The claim must be presented within the later of: (1) thirty days after the Personal Representative mailed the notice to the creditor as provided under RCW 11.40.020 (1) (c); or (2) four months after the date of first publication of this notice. If the claim is not presented within this time frame, the claim will be forever barred except as otherwise provided in RCW 11.40.051 or 11.40.060. This bar is effective as to claims against both the probate and nonprobate assets of the Decedent.

DATE OF FILING OF NOTICE TO CREDITORS WITH CLERK OF THE COURT: December 28, 2022

DATE OF FIRST PUBLICATION: January 12, 2023

PERSONAL

Phone: (360) 945-0337

Email:stowelawpllc@outlook.com

DATED this 28th day of December 2022. STOWE LAW PLLC: Mark W. Stowe, WSBA# 16655 Attorney for Personal Representative

IN THE SUPERIOR COURT OF THE STATE OF WASHINGTON IN AND FOR THE COUNTY OF Whatcom In Re the Estate of Thomas Randolph Bell, Deceased.

NOTICE TO CREDITORS. (RCW 11.40.030)

THE PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE named below has been appointed as Personal Representative of this estate. Any persons having a claim against the decedent must, before the time the claim would be barred by any otherwise applicable statute of limitations, present the claim in the manner as provided in RCW 11.40.070 by serving on or mailing to the personal representative or the personal representative’s attorney at the address stated below a copy of the claim, and filing the original of the claim with the Court in which the probate proceedings were commenced. The claim must be presented within the later of: (1) Thirty days after the personal representative served or mailed the notice to the creditor as provided under RCW 11.40.020(1) (c); or (2) four months after the date of first publication of the notice. If the claim is not presented within this time frame, the claim will be 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 non-probate assets.

You are hereby summoned to appear within sixty days after the date of the first publication of this summons, to wit, within sixty days after the 8th day of December 2022, and defend the above entitled action in the above entitled court,

SUPERIOR COURT OF WASHINGTON, COUNTY OF WHATCOM, DENNIS COHOE, Plaintiff, vs. TANA DASILVA, Defendant, And CALIBER HOME LOANS, Statutory Defendant. No. 222-01147-37. SUMMONS SERVED BY PUBLICATION (SMPB) To the Defendant Tana DaSilva:

Road Rules: To wait or to pass someone who is parallel parking?

B y D ou G D ahl

Question: Here’s the situation: I’m parallel parking on a two-lane road with a double centerline, so no passing, right? Is it legal for a car to pass me as I’m parallel parking, or do they have to wait until I’m out of the lane?

Answer: Let’s start with what we know. Two yellow lines down the center of the roadway are, in the words of the law “appropriate signs or markings” letting us know we’re in a no-passing zone. Even though we call it a no-passing zone, a more accurate term would be, “no driving on the left side of the pavement stripe zone.” That’s because violating the law doesn’t require you to actually pass another vehicle. If you cross over to the left side of the stripe, you broke the law.

Now that we have our baseline (or, in this case, centerline) defined, are there any exceptions? The law I just mentioned sure doesn’t seem to have any when it states, “No driver may at any time drive on the left side of the roadway within the no-passing zone ...” There is another law that allows drivers to cross the centerline to avoid an obstruction, but no-passing zones are

not part of context of that law.

A hardcore literalist reading of the law (which likely runs afoul of the legislators’ intent) might conclude that obstructions are not an exception to the no-passing zone law. But if a pinball machine falls off the back of the pickup in front of you, and you swerve across the centerline to avoid it (assuming there are no oncoming cars) that would seem a reasonable action and consistent with the ultimate goal of traffic laws and driving: Don’t crash. Plus, the moment you need to make an evasive maneuver to avoid a collision is not the time to be considering the finer nuances of traffic law. It’s better to avoid the crash than be a literalist and pile into the pinball machine.

The question then is, “Does a car in the process of parking constitute an obstruction?” It’s temporarily blocking your route, but I’m going to go with “no” on this. The language in the law is, “When an obstruction exists making it necessary to drive to the left of the center of the highway . . .” and I think you’d have a hard time convincing an officer or judge that it was “necessary” to cross the centerline, given that if you had waited a few more seconds your lane would have been clear.

Also, I’ve had some discussions with officers and other traffic professionals about whether cyclists and pedestrians would qualify as obstructions and the conclusion has been negative. From the folks I’ve talked with, an obstruction is something that can’t move out of the way on its own.

That’s the long response to a short answer: No, you can’t legally cross a solid centerline to pass a car as it’s parallel parking.

What about if the parallel-parking car is far enough into the space to where I can go around it without crossing the centerline? I’ll answer that question with another question: How much do you trust that the parallel parker is going to get it right on the first try?

A good driver doesn’t intentionally put themselves in a position that increases their odds of a collision. If you start to pass that parking car and it pulls back into the lane for a second attempt, you’re forced to make a less than ideal maneuver to avoid the parking car. Better to be patient and leave yourself options.

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

Lummi business park receives state funds, potential for solar manufacturing

The Washington State Department of Commerce gave a $416,000 grant for a Lummi business park that could potentially be used for solar manufacturing.

The grant will pay for Lummi Indian Business Council to oversee environmental and transportation studies as well as geotechnical analysis for the business park, according to a January 9 department of commerce press release. The site seems as though it could be used for several industries including solar manufacturing, the release read.

“This new funding will bring our 118-acre industrial site project closer to its realized potential,” said Sean Lawrence, director of the Office of Economic Policy at Lummi Nation. “With

this support, we will continue our goal of generating family-wage jobs and bringing new, often innovative industries to the area that align well with our values and enhance growth within our region.”

The grant is part of $2.5 million the department of commerce awarded six projects across Washington state, each receiving $416,000. The depart’s goal is to expand the state’s project-ready industrial sites and encourage private investment. The grants support the Building Economic Strength Through Manufacturing Act, which the Washington state legislature passed in 2021 with the goal to add 300,000 manufacturing jobs in the next decade.

OBITUARIES

Gilbert Johnson

June 19, 1940 – January 12, 2023

Beloved long-time Blaine local, Gilbert Johnson, 82, went to be with the Lord on January 12, 2023 at Whatcom Hospice House, surrounded by family.

He was born to Eddie and Gusta Johnson in Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada on June 19, 1940, and was the second of three brothers (Don and Dick Johnson). Gilbert was a longtime Blaine local who graduated from Blaine High School in 1958. After high school, he joined the U.S. Air Force and met his wife, Rosetta Cummins, in Wichita, Kansas. They married in 1963 and were together for 59 years at his passing.

After leaving the Air Force, the couple settled in Blaine where Gilbert purchased the family business, Johnson’s Service and Fuel, from his father and later acquired the garbage company, Blaine-Bay Refuse, which he operated until his retirement in 1999.

Concurrently with running his two businesses, Gilbert had been a longtime gillnetter since mid-1960. His passion involved everything marine, so he spent as much time on the water as possible. Whether it be gillnetting, recreational fishing, crabbing, or cruising with his family, he was always ready to go out on the boat.

Gilbert could put a smile on anyone’s face with one of his witty jokes and great sense of humor. He was a happy, fun-loving man who always maintained a calm demeanor and positive attitude. He was always willing to help anyone in need.

He is survived by his wife Rosetta (Cummins) Johnson; his brother Dick Johnson (Ann); his daughter Cheryl Persse (Dan); his son Richard Johnson (Shauna); and his grandchildren Holly and Rachel Johnson, and Anna and Anthony Persse. A memorial service will be held at Grace Lutheran Church, 702 G St, Blaine, on January 21 at 2 p.m. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Grace Lutheran Church or Whatcom Hospice.

Judy Melton

April 18, 1961 – January 2, 2023

Judy Melton, age 61, passed away in Bellingham on January 2, 2023. She was born April 18, 1961 to Harlan “Lefty” and Marlene Melton. Judy loved gardening and crafting. Judy was preceded in death by mother Marlene Brown; nephew Christopher Jones; brother Ron Melton; and step-father Dr. Art Brown. Judy is survived by her sister Kim (Michael) Jones and their son Matt; brother Bob Melton; nephew Ryan (Elizabeth) Melton, and many loving relatives and friends.

A celebration of her life will be held in the summer of 2023, with details to be later announced. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the Lighthouse Mission, or donate to a charity of your choice

Jan. 2, 1:04 p.m.: Trespass on Birch Bay Square Street.

Jan. 2, 1:39 p.m.: Neighborhood dispute on Dory Court.

Jan. 2, 3:54 p.m.: Domestic order violation on Birch Bay-Lynden Road, Custer. Suspect arrested.

Jan. 2, 4:19 p.m.: Burglary on Birch Terrace Court, Custer.

Jan. 2, 10:18 p.m.: Runaway on Birch Bay-Lynden and Blaine roads.

Jan. 3, 8:44 a.m.: Vehicle recovery on Boblett Street.

Jan. 3, 8:52 a.m.: Theft on Birch Bay Drive.

Jan. 3, 8:56 a.m.: Motor vehicle accident on Boblett Street.

Jan. 3, 11:36 a.m.: Threat on Clamdigger Drive.

Jan. 3, 11:41 a.m.: Forgery on Alderson Road.

Jan. 3, 2:41 p.m.: Burglary on Birch Bay Drive.

Jan. 3, 7:25 p.m.: Motor vehicle accident on Jackson and Helweg roads.

Jan. 4, 12:47 p.m.: Parking problem on Surf Place.

Jan. 4, 10:02 p.m.: Noise on Moonlight Way.

Jan. 4, 10:16 p.m.: Domestic order violation on Birch Bay Drive.

Jan. 5, 7:55 a.m.: Parking problem on Portal Way.

Jan. 5, 1:44 p.m.: Suspicious person on Birch Bay Drive.

Jan. 6, 12:05 p.m.: Suspicious circumstances on Bay Road.

Jan. 6, 3:53 p.m.: Civil problem on Castlerock Drive.

Jan. 7, 12:34 p.m.: Mental health issue on Surf Place.

Jan. 7, 4:26 p.m.: Civil problem on Tracy Place.

Jan. 7, 5:57 p.m.: Burglary on Zell Road, Custer.

Jan. 7, 7:16 p.m.: Sex crime, no rape, on Nautical Court.

Jan. 7, 8:51 p.m.: Suspicious circumstances on Anderson Road.

Jan. 8, 4:53 p.m.: Mental health issue on Surf Place.

Jan. 8, 6:37 p.m.: Vandalism on Birch Bay Drive.

Jan. 8, 6:43 p.m.: Vandalism on Leeside Drive.

Jan. 8, 9:33 p.m.: Domestic physical on Shipyard Road.

Jan. 9, 5:27 a.m.: Overdose on Birch Bay-Lynden Road.

pOLiCe repOrts

Jan. 6, 1:32 a.m.: Suspicious circumstance on A Street.

Jan. 6, 9:56 a.m.: Fraud on Kingsley Avenue.

Jan. 6, 11:59 a.m.: Suspicious circumstance on H Street.

Jan. 6, 12:38 p.m.: Drugs found on H Street.

Jan. 6, 3:33 p.m.: Hit and run on Peace Portal Drive.

Jan. 7, 2:50 a.m.: Welfare check on H Street.

Jan. 7, 8:47 p.m.: Criminal traffic on Mitchell Avenue.

Jan. 7, 9 p.m.: Criminal traffic on Mitchell Avenue.

Jan. 8, 3:49 a.m.: Security check on Mitchell Avenue.

Jan. 8, 10:59 a.m.: Verbal domestic violation on Baldwin Place.

Jan. 8, 11:33 p.m.: Death investigation on Blaine Avenue.

Jan. 9, 11:01 a.m.: False alarm on Canvasback Road.

Jan. 9, 6:29 p.m.: Malicious mischief on D Street.

CrOssWOrd

Jan. 9, 6:51 p.m.: Found property on 11th Street.

Jan. 9, 9:58 p.m.: Counterfeit investigation on H Street.

Jan. 9, noon: Theft on Kingsley Avenue.

Jan. 10, 12:01 a.m.: Vehicle prowl on Harrison Avenue.

Jan. 10, 12:19 p.m.: Juvenile problem on H Street.

Jan. 10, 3:01 p.m.: Juvenile problem on H Street.

Jan. 10, 8:19 p.m.: Malicious mischief on Milhollin Drive.

Jan. 10, 11:34 p.m.: Minor in possession of alcohol on 2nd Street.

Jan. 11, 6:45 a.m.: Assist agency on H Street.

Jan. 11, 9:59 p.m.: Verbal domestic dispute on Martin Street.

Jan. 12, 12:37 a.m.: Verbal domestic dispute on B Street.

Jan. 12, 9:10 a.m.: Suspicious person on H Street.

Report by Blaine Police Department

Becoming an In-Home Caregiver: Thursday, January 19, 10 a.m.–2 p.m., Blaine Library, 610 3rd Street. Drop in to gain info and assistance in the process. Presented by Northwest Regional Council. Info: wcls.org.

Uncorked Winemaker Dinner: Friday, January 20, 6 p.m., Semiahmoo Resort, 9565 Semiahmoo Parkway. Join winemakers from Browne Family Vineyards and the Semiahmoo culinary team for an interactive dinner. Info and reservations: semiahmoo.com.

Dementia Educational Series by Silverado: Thursday, January 19, 5:30–6:30 p.m., Blaine Library, 610 3rd Street. Informative presentations on a variety of dementia-related topics, designed to further your knowledge and help you provide the best possible care and support for individuals with memory impairments.

Basics of Sprouting: Saturday, January 21, 10 a.m.–noon, Blaine Library, 610 3rd Street. Nutrient dense, sprouts are a welcome addition to our winter diet. Easy to grow, you don’t even need a windowsill. We will cover basic supplies, where to get seeds, timetables, etc. Presented by Blaine CORE. Info: wcls.org.

Birch Bay Chamber After Hours Networking: Thursday, January 26, 5–6:30 p.m., The Beach at Birch Bay, 7876 Birch Bay Drive. No host networking with local businesses. Info: birchbaychamber.com.

Whatcom Dream Financial Empowerment Class: Thursdays, January 26 - February 23, 6:30–7:30 p.m., CAP Center, 508 G Street. Improve your financial management skills for a more secure financial future. Free. For more info or to register: 360/296-0441 or kevin@thewhatcomdream.org. Sponsored by the Community Assistance Program.

Pruning 101: Saturday, January 28, 10 a.m.–noon, Blaine Library, 610 3rd Street. This is the perfect time to start pruning. Trees are breaking hibernation earlier (or not even going into deep hibernation), so take advantage of some of our sunny winter days and brush up on those pruning skills. We will discuss tools, why to prune, decisions, necessary (learning to understand growth habits of tress/bushes). We will also present on overgrown trees and how to get them back in shape. Bring your questions! Presented by Blaine CORE. Info: wcls.org.

26th Annual Arts and Jazz Fundraiser: Saturday, February 4, 7 p.m., Blaine Middle School Cafeteria. Band, choir and theater students will perform, art students will offer sketches, the culinary department will be providing light food offerings, live and silent auctions. Tickets at the door: $10 adults, $5 student/senior, no charge for children under 5. All proceeds go toward scholarships and experiences beyond the curriculum for students of the Blaine School District art departments.

The Bellingham Winter Wedding Show: Sunday, February 5, 11 a.m.–3 p.m., Mount Baker Theatre, 104 North Commercial Street, Bellingham. Start planning your wedding or to lock in the final touches for your special day. Visit with 25 of the area’s leading wedding vendors, sample catering and dessert options, connect with local photographers, and find your perfect bouquet from one of our area’s amazing local florists. Tickets $10 at mountbakertheatre.com.

Ongoing

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.

ANSWERS: THENORTHERNLIGHT.COM

January 19-25 at Blaine. Not for navigation.

49° 0’ 0”N - 122° 46’ 0”W

DATE TIME HEIGHT TIME HEIGHT

Th 19 5:00 am 14.2 9:21 am 12.7

1:17 pm 13.9 9:32 pm 1.5

Fr 20 5:42 am 14.8 10:23 am 12.5

2:21 pm 13.9 10:20 pm 0.9

Sa 21 6:20 am 15.1 11:15 am 12.1

3:25 pm 13.9 11:08 pm 0.7

Su 22 6:56 am 15.3 12:07 pm 11.5

4:27 pm 13.7 11:54 pm 0.9

Mo 23 7:30 am 15.4 12:59 pm 10.7

5:27 pm 13.2

Tu 24 12:38 am 1.6 8:04 am 15.3

1:55 pm 9.7 6:31 pm 12.6

We 25 1:22 am 2.9 8:38 am 15.2

2:49 pm 8.6 7:41 pm 11.8

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

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

Meals on Wheels Frozen Meals: Thursdays 11:30 a.m.–noon, Blaine Senior Center, 763 G Street. Adults 60+ pick up five frozen meals. Suggested donation $5 per meal or whatever is affordable. First come, first serve basis. Info: 360/332-8040.

Meals on Wheels Hot Lunches: Monday–Friday, 11:30 a.m.–12:30 p.m., Blaine Senior Center, 763 G Street. Suggested donation of $5 per meal ($8.50 if under 60) or whatever is affordable. First come, first serve basis. Info: 360/332-8040.

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

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. Evidence-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.

Blaine Book Club: Friday, January 20, 1 p.m., Blaine Library, 610 3rd Street. January title: The Echo Wife by Sarah Gailey. Info: Kelly at 360/305-3637.

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

Precipitation: During the period of January 2-8, 0.5 inches of precipitation were recorded. The 2023 year-to-date precipitation was 0.5 inches.

Temperature: High for the past week was 58°F on January 5 with a low of 34°F on January 2. Average high was 50°F and average low was 38°F.

Courtesy Birch Bay Water & Sewer Dist.

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.

Birch Bay-Blaine Toastmasters: Wednesdays, 6:30–7:45 p.m., Blaine High School, 1055 H Street, room 104. What are the stories you like to tell? Learn to tell them really well. Info: Laura 360-371-7330 or agelesslaura@gmail.com.

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

Chief deputy auditor Stacy Henthorn running for county auditor

Whatcom County chief deputy auditor Stacy Henthorn announced her bid for Whatcom County Auditor on January 12 as Diana Bradrick won’t run for another term.

Henthorn has 20 years’ experience working in elections, recording and vehicle and vessel licensing. She’s also represented the auditor’s office on numerous committees and has implemented a new ballot sort -

Hi, I’m Ruth.

er and licensing system, among other accomplishments.

“I pledge to continue to lead the auditor’s office in providing customer-focused services, with integrity and transparency,” she said in a statement.

Bradrick said she decided to retire instead of running for another term. She endorses Henthorn.

“Stacy is an experienced, proven, professional dedicated

I grew up in Bellingham, attended public schools and graduated from Bellingham High School and then attended Western Washington University. While my profession became teaching my dream was to travel. I received a Fulbright Teacher Exchange opportunity and spent a year in an English Girls’ School in Newcastle England. I then attended Columbia University in New York City and received a master’s degree. I was offered a supervisory position with the military schools in Europe. I really enjoyed the opportunity to travel throughout Europe with that position. My desire for more education brought me back to New York where I received a doctorate degree in education and eventually taught at the City University of New York. At that time, I was invited to be an international representative (NGO) at the United Nations and participated in other organizations relating to women and children such as UNICEF. After my return to Bellingham I grew tired of cooking and housekeeping so I made a decision to move to Solstice Independent Living. After 12 years, I have made no plans to move.

to making local government responsive, transparent and accessible to Whatcom County residents,” Bradrick said in

a statement. “Her experience in all three divisions within the office is unmatched in our county.”

Was A Time: Whimsical Relics and Eclectic Images

Wednesdays - Sundays, Noon - 5 PM Old City Hall | 121 Prospect St. www.whatcommuseum.org

s Stacy Henthorn. Courtesy photo

cancer care unique as