The Northern Light: January 26-February 1, 2023

School board appoints local business owner to vacant seat

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The Blaine school board voted 4-0 to appoint Pacific Building Center and True Value Hardware co-owner Kimberly Akre as its fifth member at a special meeting January 23. Akre will be sworn in at the board’s regular meeting at 7 p.m. Monday, February 27.

Akre will fill former board member Todd Nunamaker’s district 1 seat until November 7, when the seat is up for election. Nunamaker resigned from the board in October 2022 due to continued health challenges.

The board was required to appoint a representative living in the district to fill the vacant seat as it had been 90 days since Nunamaker resigned. District 1 includes Point Roberts and western parts of downtown Blaine. Board members must also be a U.S. citizen and registered voter.

The school board interviewed two candidates, Akre and Brandy Hawkins, in its special meeting on January 23. After about 35 minutes in executive session to discuss the candidates, the board unanimously appointed Akre.

“I saw it as a good opportunity to give back to the community,” Akre said January 24.

Akre said her family moved to the area in 1977. She attended Blaine schools, graduating in 1992. She and her family took over the Pacific Building Center in 1997. She owns it with her sister Stephanie Munden. Akre also has two boys who went to Blaine schools.

Hawkins is a complex claims resolution specialist for Liberty Mutual and has two children in the district. During her interview with the board, Hawkins encouraged the district to solve issues through more communication and engagement with the community. She said she has volunteered in her children’s classrooms and is vice chair of the Salishan Neighborhood Association.

Akre said as a business owner she is comfortable dealing with financial issues and could apply this to a role as an adviser on district finances and operations. “I think a lot of people don’t realize that the school is

Development projects throughout Blaine

Blaine saw a booming year for housing development in 2022.

There was more than enough to keep city staff busy, from the announcement of the proposed Semiahmoo Highlands development that will bring up to 480 residential units to construction of The Ridge at Harbor Hills.

The city received $376,000 in revenue from building permit fees in 2022, which is $100,000 more than 2021 and $200,000 more than 2020. Construction was valued

at nearly $45.6 million last year.

The city permitted nearly three times as many residential building permits as its annual average over the past decade, at over 150 permits in 2022, said Stacie Pratschner, director of the city’s Community Development Services Department (CDS). Development of The Ridge at Harbor Hills significantly brought up the number of permits, which the city uses to gauge the number of new housing units being built.

“It was quite a change from the averages we’ve seen for about a 10-year period,” Pratschner said. The closest the city’s

Federal government blocks BP Cherry Point north wing, limits crude oil volume

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The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers will require BP to limit the volume of crude oil handled at its Cherry Point terminal to 191 million barrels per year and prohibit handling crude oil at its north wing dock unless authorized.

The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers will modify its 1996 permit to comply with the Magnuson Amendment’s restrictions re-

garding the handling of crude oil at Puget Sound facilities, the Endangered Species Act (ESA) and other legal requirements, according to a January 23 Corps press release. The Corps are also requiring BP to report the number of vessel calls and the volume of crude oil handled at the terminal each year to ensure compliance.

U.S. Army Corps of Engineers spokesperson Andrew Muñoz said BP will be required to report its vessel calls and crude

oil volume annually.

“That is really the only way [the Corps] can ensure that the ESA and Magnuson Amendment restrictions are being followed,” Muñoz said.

In 1996, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers approved a permit to add a north wing to the already operational south wing of the Cherry Point dock, originally built

seen to these numbers was right before the 2008 recession when there were about 70 residential unit permits issued, she said.

Last January, the city began using a hearing examiner, instead of planning commission, to review applications such as conditional use permits and preliminary plat applications before being considered by city council. The city also digitized its permit intake, which Pratschner said accommodated growth.

CDS is projecting conservative reve-

(See Building, page 6)

s The Ridge at Harbor Hills has over a dozen homes occupied in the east Blaine housing development. The development, expected to

houses between single-family homes and multi-family units. Photo by Grace McCarthy

Petrogas pays $4 million in settlement,

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Cherry Pt. ...

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for ARCO in 1971. BP purchased ARCO in 2000, and construction on the north wing finished in 2001. But several environmental groups sued the Corps and BP, asking for an environment impact statement (EIS).

Environmental groups expected shipping traffic to increase if the north wing was deemed usable, so they filed suit.

The groups found the originally approved permit potentially violated the Magnuson Amendment, enacted to the federal Marine Mammal Protection

Act in 1977, which limits crude oil vessels in Puget Sound waters. The amendment prohibits federal agencies from granting permits that could “result in any increase in the volume of crude oil capable of being handled at any such facility, other than oil to be refined for consumption in the State of Washington.” The benchmark for oil volume was set October 18, 1977 at 191 million barrels per year.

The EIS, detailing the incremental environmental risk of operating the north wing of the BP Cherry Point terminal, was released August 12, 2022, and the Corps awaited consultations with local tribes and the Depart -

ment of Justice before coming to a decision whether to modify the permit.

At that time, EIS project manager Daniel Krenz said the decision would come down to three possibilities. Either the Corps would leave the permit as is, revoke the existing permit or propose changes to modify it. Ultimately deciding to make changes, the Corps has brought the permit into compliance with the Magnuson Amendment.

The Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals ordered the Corps to complete an EIS in 2005, after environmental group Ocean Advocates appealed when the U.S.

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!

District

After conducting two longterm vessel studies a draft EIS was released in 2014 for pub -

lic review. Then, following ESA consultations with NOAA Fisheries and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, the final EIS was released in 2022. It’s available at bit.ly/3Dh7sjJ.

Mount Baker Theatre Sunday, February 5 mountbakertheatre.org

School ... From page 1

a business,” Akre said. “It has to be run as a business.”

In November 2016, Akre was elected the first woman president of Western Building Material Association, a regional trade association

serving Alaska, Idaho, Montana, Oregon and Washington. Akre has also served as president of the Blaine Chamber of Commerce.

Having caught her during the middle of the workday, Akre said she didn’t yet have any specific goals for her time on the board. “This has all been pretty new to me,” she said.

s Kimberly Akre with her sons Mason, l., and Tobin, at Pacific Building Center in 2018. File photo

s Beachcombers wander down the beach along Gulf Road with a vessel moored at the south wing of BP’s Cherry Point dock last September.

Photo by Ian Haupt

Court for the Western District of Washington ruled in favor of the Corps.

Cases: Following up on past stories of arrest, lawsuits in the area

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Below are follow-up stories to previous arrests of residents or suspects in local crime cases and lawsuits that have since been resolved in court.

Birch Bay drive-by suspect pleads guilty to attempted murder

A Bellingham man who turned himself in February 20, 2022, after attempting to kill a Birch Bay man February 19, 2022 pleaded guilty to second-degree attempted murder and drive-by shooting in Whatcom County Superior Court January 9.

Martin Dylan Siergiey, 37, was sentenced to serve 12 years in prison and three years probation January 18 after pleading guilty to both charges.

Around 6 p.m. February 19, 2022, Siergiey approached a 28-year-old man in the 5500 block of Hillvue Road, asked who he was by name and began shooting at the man when he confirmed his identity, according to the affidavit of probable cause (APC). The man fled into a neighbor’s house. Siergiey believed the man had raped a member of his family.

Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office (WCSO) deputies responded to the scene after receiving a report that the 28-year-old had been shot and the suspect was on the run. Deputies found a bullet had struck the man in his upper right thigh as he was running. He was treated at the scene and later saw a doctor, according to the APC. He was the only person injured. Two rounds also hit the neighbor’s house; one hit the headboard in their bedroom and another hit their bathroom closet.

The 28-year-old man provided a description and was able to identify Siergiey from a photo lineup.

Siergiey was identified as a possible suspect based on a suspicious circumstance report filed by a third party in November 2020 that accused the Birch Bay man of raping Siergiey’s female family member.

WCSO deputies and Bellingham Police Department officers later contacted Siergiey who turned himself in around 1 a.m. the following day after negotiations with deputies.

Custer man and Compass Health settle lawsuit out of court

A Custer man who worked as a mental health professional at Whatcom County Jail will receive a settlement for a lawsuit he filed against Whatcom County and Compass Health in July 2021.

Fred A. Pulphus filed a lawsuit July 13, 2021, in the U.S. district court in Seattle against behavioral healthcare agency Compass Health, Whatcom County, the Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office and corrections chief Wendy Jones that was settled out of court, according to court documents.

The claims against Jones were dismissed January 3. A stipulation for dismissal will be filed for the other defendants once

Pulphus has been compensated. The lawsuit alleged that Compass Health, the county and its officials violated the Washington State Law Against Discrimination and interfered with Pulphus’ job because he is Black. It also alleged that Jones violated Pulphus’ 14th Amendment rights to due process and equal protection under the law when he was banned from working at the county jail after no action was taken following his repeated reports of racism and harassment in the workplace, according to the lawsuit.

Compass Health, headquartered in Snohomish County, is a community-based healthcare agency centered around northwest Washington. It provides behavioral and mental health services to adult and youth inmates at Whatcom County Jail and is part of a healthcare team that works alongside nurses and medical providers, according to court documents.

Pulphus’ lawsuit alleged that he was denied the process and disciplinary practices and policies extended to other employees, and Compass Health’s treatment of him was discriminatory. Pulphus was denied access to promotions, pay increases and other career opportunities, according to the lawsuit.

In December 2018, Compass Health recruited Pulphus to work on the jail’s behavioral health team. Upon being hired, Pulphus said in court documents that he experienced multiple incidents of discrimination and hostility in his two years working at the jail, including threats by a coworker who said they could recruit colleagues to get him fired.

In February 2019, Pulphus reported to his direct supervisor the ongoing harassment and racist comments. He also reported to the behavioral health team manager that a coworker was attempting to get him fired, but the manager allegedly said the coworkers were bullies and took no action.

Pulphus complained to Jones, but Jones and other county officials did not investigate or take action, according to the complaint. Pulphus also called the Compass Health company hotline to report the harassment and discrimination.

According to court documents, Pulphus continued to seek help and file reports of the racism and harassment, one of which was filed with Compass Health’s CEO. In November 2019, Pulphus met with a human resources representative at Compass Health.

In January 2020, a nursing supervisor at the jail told Whatcom County officials that Pulphus shared personal information of an inmate with healthcare team members and other people, breaching their privacy, the lawsuit read. Whatcom County officials subsequently banned Pulphus from working at the jail on January 23, 2020.

Blaine man gets over 7 years for multiple unlawful possession charges

A Blaine man will serve over seven years in prison for recklessly firing a rifle and handgun (See Cases, page 5)

Realty

Number of employees: One part-time. How long in business: 35 years.

Description of business: Real estate and notary services.

How the business started: I had just retired in July 1986 from Blaine U.S. Customs and wanting to continue to work - but in a desultory fashion - I thought real estate would be the answer. I then attended college for two years and served the required two years under a local brokership, opened my own office with two agents and increased that to total of six, later narrowing the complement down to just myself.

Future goals: To continue to be as helpful as possible to the public and to continue with my education, as it is never too late to learn - even at the age of 99.

The Northern Light is published weekly by Point Roberts Press Inc.

Locally owned and managed, the company also publishes the All Point Bulletin, covering Point Roberts, Mount Baker Experience, covering the Mt. Baker foothills area, Pacific Coast Weddings annual guide, and the summer recreation guide Waterside as well as maps and other publications. Point Roberts Press Inc. is a member of the Washington Newspaper Publishers Association, Chambers of Commerce of Bellingham/ Whatcom County, Birch Bay, Blaine and Point Roberts and the Bellingham/ Whatcom County Convention and Visitors Bureau.

The opinions expressed by contributors are their own and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the editors.

Letters Policy

The Northern Light welcomes letters to the editor. Please include name, address and daytime telephone number for verification. Letters are limited to 350 words and may be edited or rejected for reasons of legality, length and good taste. 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 limited to five individuals or groups. Writers should avoid personal invective. Unsigned letters will not be accepted for publication. Requests for withholding names will be considered on an individual basis. Consumer complaints should be submitted directly to the business in question or the local chamber of commerce. Only one letter per month from an individual correspondent will be published. Email letters to letters@thenorthernlight.com.

Publisher & Managing Editor

Patrick Grubb publisher@pointrobertspress.com

Co-publisher & Advertising Director Louise Mugar lmugar@pointrobertspress.com

Editor Grace McCarthy grace@pointrobertspress.com

Reporter Ian Haupt ian@pointrobertspress.com

Creative Services Doug De Visser, Ruth Lauman production@pointrobertspress.com

Office Manager Jeanie Luna info@pointrobertspress.com

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

editor@pointrobertspress.com

OpiniOn

Home video brings to life 1950s Birch Bay

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A Vancouver, B.C., man brought to life his family’s 1950s film of Birch Bay’s amusement park.

The black-and-white footage, captured on 8-millimeter film, resurrects a five-minute scene of children enjoying the crowded amusement park rides. Hair scarves and classic vehicles show the era while added carnival sound effects provide background noise.

“My favorite part of creating videos is seeing and hearing the reactions of people who see them,” said Dustin Shea, who released the video late last November. “The older generations never had iPhones in their pockets so it’s pretty cool to be able to give them the opportunity to briefly experience their past memories through video.”

Shea said his grandmother gave him a few shoeboxes full of 8-millimeter film before she died in October. He’s slowly been going through the film and has posted eight videos on his YouTube account, Hollow Bamboo Entertainment. Shea, who attended Vancouver Film School, and his friend, Paul Kalkman, started creating the videos as a hobby, but hope to turn it into something bigger.

His family vacationed to Birch Bay at least once a summer in the mid-20th century as well as had homes on Salt Spring and Vancouver islands. Shea said his grandfather filmed the majority of the Birch Bay video and would pass the camera to other family members.

The Birch Bay video took about 10 hours to complete, Shea said. The film is scanned frame by frame, which requires trimming and removing damaged footage. Once digitized, the video is put through an AI enhancement program and sound is added.

Shea said he still needs to go through about half of the 2.5 hours of footage his grandmother passed down. Anyone with old VHS and 8-millimeter film can contact Shea at hollowbambooentertainment@gmail.com.

The Editor:

I want to share information about having an alternative to having to pay too much for prescription drug medications.

The NBC series “Side Effects, NBC News Investigating Drug Pricing” featured Mark Cuban who has started his own company called Cost Plus Drugs that makes prescription medications very affordable. He can do this because he bypasses the insurers and middlemen. An example is for the leukemia drug Imatinib, which retails at a pharmacy chain for more than $2,500, according to Cost Plus Drugs website. With insurance, a typical co-pay is $30. But at Cost Plus Drugs the same leukemia medication is $19.40 a month with no in-

surance needed, and so no co-pay either. Another example is the drug Albendazole, which has an average retail of $430, but at Cost Plus it is only $38.

Mark Cuban is on reality TV-show “Shark Tank” and is worth billions of dollars. When asked why he started his company, he said, “It’s the right thing to do. I have money.” In the 10 months since he started the company, he has about 1.5 million customers who can choose from about 350 generic medications. He says, “Transparency is the key.” On his bills, the customers see what Cost Plus paid for the medication, along with a 15 percent mark up, a $3 pharmacy fee and a $5 shipping fee. That’s it.

A young girl, Christina Costa, uses Cost

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.

Plus Drugs and created an Instagram video to share her experience. She has epilepsy and brain cancer, and anxiety. She quoted Mark Cuban, “Everyone should have safe, affordable medicines with transparent prices.” She’s never met Mark Cuban, but by using Cost Plus Drugs, she is saving 90 percent on her medications every month. It is worth going online (costplusdrugs. com) and seeing how much you can save on your prescription medications.

Cindy Kisska Birch Bay

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 Recently discovered home video depicts a summer day at Birch Bay’s old amusement park in the 1950s. Image courtesy Hollow Bamboo Entertainment YouTube

Arts and Jazz fundraiser returns for 26th year on February

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y G race M c c art H y Kim Shea.

A night of student talent will unfold on Friday, February 4 as the Arts and Jazz fundraiser returns for its 26th year. Students in Blaine arts, culinary, music and theater departments will showcase their accomplishments while benefiting student scholarships.

Blaine Fine Arts Association is hosting the fundraiser at 7 p.m. in the Blaine Middle School cafeteria, 975 H Street. Tickets, which are $10 for adults, $5 for students and seniors, and free for children under five years old, will be sold at the door. All proceeds fund scholarships and additional learning opportunities for students in the arts departments.

New this year, Blaine High School (BHS) culinary arts will serve veggie platters, cold cuts, pigs in a blanket and other finger foods. BHS jazz band and choir will perform throughout the evening, and then BHS theater arts will end the evening with a performance. The event is expected to wrap up around 8:45 p.m., said event organizer

Attendees can bid during live and silent auctions. The live auction has Nelson Driving School lessons, four seats to the 2023 BHS graduation and a two-night stay at a Mount Baker cabin. The silent auction will have over 60 items, including gift certificates to local businesses, a round of golf for two at North Bellingham Golf Course, irrigation system installation, a signed Seahawks helmet, jewelry and an at-home painting lesson with a charcuterie board.

The event funds three $1,000 scholarships annually and the Mary Freeman Memorial raises an additional two $2,000 scholarships every other year. Additional funds will go toward the band’s upcoming trip to Portland, choir trip to California and international travel for the art department. Funds also purchase uniform cleaning, music, props and treats to celebrate student accomplishments.

Last year, the Arts and Jazz fundraiser collected about $16,000, Shea said.

TouchStone receives $900,000 for treatment facility

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TouchStone Behavioral Health has received $900,000 in capital funding for acquisition, renovation and/or construction of a crisis stabilization facility from the Washington’s Behavioral Health Facilities capital program, according to a Washington Department of Commerce press release.

TouchStone health director Erika Creydt said the Blaine clinic will use the funds to acquire a facility for intensive youth outpatient treatment, crisis stabilization and triage in Whatcom County.

Cases ...

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at an abandoned farm house near Bay Road.

Michael R. Gubser, 32, of Blaine, was sentenced October 27, 2022, to 89 months in prison for three first-degree unlawful possession of a firearm charges, reckless endangerment and second-degree assault with a deadly weapon.

Around 6:30 p.m. May 30, 2022, Ferndale residents in the 3800 block of Bay Road reported that bullets were going over their heads, according to the APC. One

“We’re so grateful of the department of commerce helping partner with us to increase services in the community,” Creydt said. “It means so much to us to be able to expand these services.”

The department of commerce announced December 29 that it was awarding $20.4 million in state grants to community-based facilities serving people experiencing mental health crises. Four other facilities in Benton, King and Skagit counties received grants ranging up to $5.8 million. TouchStone received the smallest grant.

resident wrote the license plate of the suspect’s vehicle, which WCSO deputies determined Gubser owned.

Deputies tried to stop Gubser in the 8400 block of Harborview Road but he drove away. State law prevented deputies from pursuing Gubser but they were later able to arrest him in the 5000 block of Lincoln Road.

Gubser was wanted on felony charges in northern California for driving without a license and falsely representing himself to officers in June 2020.

According to Whatcom County Superior Court records, he had

Blaine residents make honors

Blaine resident Peter Valum made Spokane Falls Community College honor roll for fall quarter 2022. Valum achieved a GPA of 3.0 or higher to be on the Spokane community college’s honor roll.

Blaine resident Ryan Carew made Dean’s List at Eastern Washington University for the 2022 fall quarter. Carew earned a GPA of 3.5 or higher to be on the Dean’s List.

TouchStone Behavioral Health is a mental health clinic, located at 288 Martin Street, that offers a wide range of counseling services.

The department of commerce and its partners at the state’s department of health, department of social and health services and health care authority conducted a competitive process to award the grants.

The funds are for construction, renovation, acquisition and/or equipment costs associated with establishing the facilities. According to the press release, projects must maintain the facility for at least 15 years.

separate first-degree assault with a deadly weapon and drive-by shooting charges from three days prior. The case was dismissed (See Cases, page 10)

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

Thursday, February 9 9:00am – Parks and Cemetery Board Meeting 6:00pm – Planning Commission Meeting

Monday, February 13 6:00pm – City Council Meeting

Thursday, February 16 9:00am – Ad Hoc Downtown Advisory Committee Meeting

Monday, February 20 City Offices Closed –Presidents Day

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

s “Pig and Dog” by Blaine student Camryn Garcia. Image courtesy Kim Shea

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timating numbers will be close to 2019.

From east to west, here are some of the major development projects, proposed and in construction.

Grandis Pond

Grandis Pond is a housing project east of Harvey Road that

Victor Gervol

Junior

Wrestling

Vezzetti

is expected to have 387 homes in its first subdivision and 1,000 homes within the next two decades. The project will have seven subdivisions made up of single-family, cottage homes, duplexes and fourplexes. Grandis Pond also has an area for a fire station and 48,000 square feet of commercial space.

Developer Ken Hertz, president of Bellingham-based Blossom Management, said he hopes construction could start in 2024 after infrastructure is installed. Hertz has been working with the city of Blaine and east Blaine developers Skip and Katie Jansen to obtain funding to install the infrastructure through tax-increment financing (TIF) and an Economic Development Investment Program grant and low-interest loan combination through Whatcom County. TIF would allow the city to borrow money from expected increases in property tax revenues from a designated area in east Blaine to pay for water, sewer and street construction.

The project has been stalled for several years due to the lack of infrastructure, which is also part of the reason Harbor Custom Development (HCD) has delayed closing the sale to purchase Grandis Pond, Hertz said. HCD, a Gig-Harbor based real estate company, entered a contract to

purchase Grandis Pond for $14 million in December 2021. The contract expires at the end of 2023, Hertz said, adding that sale meetings remain positive.

“East Blaine development is going to be a big asset to the entire county because there’s very few pieces of property available with utilities, outside of the flood plain and outside of the agriculture area,” Hertz said. “This is a prime location in Whatcom County and northwest Washington.”

East Harbor Hills

Grandis Pond will connect to East Harbor Hills and then The Ridge at Harbor Hills through Harbor Hills Parkway. Blaine developers Skip and Katie Jansen, of JIJ Corporation, are developing both East Harbor Hills and The Ridge.

The developers are still working on engineering and entitlements for the 144-acre property, which is east of Harvey Road and north of H Street Road. The area is zoned for 600 homes but Skip Skip Jansen said he wasn’t sure they’d reach that density because of wetlands.

The Jansens would like to include a large manufactured home park in East Harbor Hills to create more affordable housing options. Before proposing the project to the city, they need the zoning to be changed, which has spurred backlash from east Blaine residents. The project is still far out and would ultimately need city council approval.

Skip Jansen said he anticipates East Harbor Hills could be constructed by 2030.

The Ridge at Harbor Hills City council is expected to consider the final plat application for the second phase of The Ridge at Harbor Hills, formerly known as East Maple Ridge, in the next few months, according to the city. The second phase would bring another 78 residential lots to the 88-acre property, which has a total of total 350 units planned.

The Ridge broke ground early last year and has more than a dozen homes occupied, Skip Jansen said. Over 100 people are working on developing and constructing the property’s single-family and multi-family units.

Skip Jansen said the name changed to The Ridge to emphasize its high elevation after the November 2021 flooding. The property has a trail network, city park and 24,000-square-foot space for future commercial development.

Skip Jansen expects The Ridge to be complete at the end of 2025.

Lincoln Mews

Construction is expected to start this spring on Lincoln Mews, a 53-unit townhouse project at H Street and Odell Road, said Blair Murray, developer and owner of Tin Rock Development. The 4.7acre project will have duplexes, triplexes and detached dwelling units as well as vehicle access on Ludwick Avenue.

Blaine hearing examiner Rajeev Majumdar approved Lincoln Mews’s conditional use permit in August 2022. The project’s first phase will include a stormwater pond and infrastructure for the first 16 units. Murray said Lincoln Mews is expected to be complete by 2026.

Gateway property

Taco Bell opened in December 2022 and McDonald’s is expected to open by May, Jason White, vice president of marketing at White-Leasure Development Company, told The Northern Light earlier this month. White-Leasure has three lots remaining to be sold on the Gateway property at the old airport site.

Pratschner said the city would have a preapplication meeting with O’Reilly Auto Parts and a car wash could potentially go there as well. “They’ll likely be establishing themselves there pretty soon,” Pratschner said of O’Reilly.

Family Care Network (FCN) president and CEO Dr. Rodney Anderson was not available after several attempts for an interview. A FCN spokesperson said in an email that FCN will continue to work with its contractor and hopes to have an estimated timeline later this year. FCN purchased the 2.5-acre property from the city in June 2021 after several delays because of the pandemic. Dr. Anderson said last August that the clinic was expected to have a handful of primary care doctors but growing construction costs put the urgent care and X-ray in question.

Modern mixed-use building

Windermere Real Estate broker Jen Freeman, who is developing the modern mixed-use building on H and 3rd streets, said she could not give an estimate on when construction would be finished or who the first floor tenant would be. The first floor will have a 1,000-square-foot commercial unit and the top two floors will be a residential unit. The building was one of the first to be reviewed under the city of Blaine’s 2018 downtown design code.

Martin Street buildings

The city is reviewing a proposal for three buildings at the corner of Martin and 4th streets. The buildings will be two stories each, with one building having a 1,120 feet of commercial space and the other two having one-bedroom duplexes. Pratschner said she anticipated construction could start within the next month. Blaine resident Doug Dahl, who is developing the property, said he doesn’t have any tenants lined up yet.

Georgia Street triplexes

Two triplexes are being built at the corner of Georgia Street and Mitchell Avenue. The properties, which started construction two months ago, should be

s The modern mixed-use building at 736 3rd Street on January 23. Photo by Grace McCarthy

New Blaine girls basketball coach receives NCAA Inspiration Award

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New Blaine girls basketball coach Gracie Phelps received the 2023 NCAA Inspiration Award on January 11 in San Antonio following a national runner-up season for the Western Washington University (WWU) Vikings.

“I just felt extremely honored and humbled to be around such incredible and inspiring people,” Phelps said about the experience.

Phelps said she found out she was being honored with the award through her coach Carmen Dolfo, who also connected her with the Blaine job.

“So many things have happened for me because of my college coach,” Phelps said.

After redshirting her freshman year, Phelps played basketball for the Vikings from 2017 to 2022. In her final season, the Vikings made it to the NCAA Division II national championship, losing to Glenville State 85-72. Phelps started in both the semifinal and championship game. Over her five-year career, she played in 126 games, earning 46 starts and averaging 5.9 points, 1.7 assists and 2.7 rebounds per game.

Phelps took on the Blaine coaching job before graduating from WWU in December 2022.

With four regular season games left to play, the team has an overall record of 3-13 so far this season.

“Every win has been huge,” she said.

Phelps said her goal for the rest

of the season is for the team to have fun, work hard, have a positive attitude and find ways to motivate each other.

Phelps graduated from Arlington High School in 2016. During her time there, the Eagles made it to the state tournament all four years and to the championship game

twice, in both 4A and 3A divisions. Phelps said part of her job is reining in her competitiveness. She said when games aren’t going their way she often feels like she needs to change tactics, but that the team’s development depends on consistency and repetition. She also said it’s been a difficult

Sports roundup: Blaine competitive cheer goes to state

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Boys basketball Blaine took their second conference defeat of the season on the road at Mount Vernon High School January 23. The Borderites lost 82-79 to the Bulldogs.

The boys had picked up two wins since their first conference loss to the Lynden Lions January 12. They had beaten Mount Baker 90-49 on the road January 16 and narrowly beat Burlington-Edison 74-72 at home January 20.

The Borderites will host 1A defending state champions Lynden Christian Thursday, January 26 and Anacortes Saturday, January 28. Both games are at 7:15 p.m. The boys are 12-3 overall this season and 9-2 in conference.

Girls basketball

The Lady Borderites lost 8235 to Burlington-Edison on the road January 20. The girls lost to Mount Vernon 63-40 at home January 23.

Juniors Jordyn Vezzetti and Deja Dube led Blaine Monday night. Vezzetti finished with 14 points and Dube finished with 13 points.

The team will host Lynden Christian at 5:40 p.m. Thursday, January 26 in a girls and boys basketball doubleheader. Then the girls travel to Anacortes Saturday, January 28. They will play at 4 p.m. Blaine is 3-13 so far this season and 1-11 in conference.

Boys wrestling

The boys wrestling team took 14th place at the multi-school Quincy Mat Animal Boys Wrestling Tournament January 21 at Quincy High School. The Borderites scored 65 points.

The 1A boys sub regional wrestling will take place at Meridian High School Saturday, February 4, starting at 11 a.m. Blaine will host the 1A region 1 regionals Saturday, February 11, with competition starting at 11 a.m.

Girls wrestling

The girls wrestling team will compete next at the Lady Knights Invitational Saturday, January 28 at Mariner High School. Wrestling starts at 9 a.m. From there, the girls will compete next at sub regionals at Squalicum High School Saturday, February 4. Wrestling starts at 9:30 a.m.

Competitive Cheer Blaine’s competitive cheer team qualified for the state tournament in its inaugural season. The team will travel to Battle Ground High School February 3-4.

adjustment getting to know the team while not being a teacher at the school.

Phelps said she’s proud of how hard her team works.

“They want to learn and they want to be better,” she said. “That’s all I can really ask for as their coach. That makes it fun to coach.”

Phelps said her assistant coach John Pope, who she’s known since she was in fifth grade and has been coaching with for a year now, has offered her support. Last spring, Phelps coached Whatcom Middle School’s girls basketball team with Pope. She has also worked boys and girls basketball youth camps through WWU.

Phelps double majored in multidisciplinary studies and elementary education at WWU and received a minor in multilingual education.

The NCAA Inspiration Award honors an athlete or coach who used perseverance, dedication and determination to overcome a life-altering situation and become role models, giving hope and inspiration to others.

More of Phelps’ story can be found on the NCAA’s website at bit.ly/3HqAyyD.

s Gracie Phelps with her team during a timeout. Phelps received the 2023 NCAA Inspiration Award January 11. Photo by Ian Haupt

s Blaine competitive cheer team will travel to the state tournament in Battle Ground, Washington on February 3-4.

Photo by Christjiana Beyerlin

s Jordyn Vezzetti takes a running jump shot in Blaine’s 63-40 loss to Mount Vernon January 23. Photo by Ian Haupt

Building ...

From page 6

finished in another three months, said Blaine real estate agent Ron Freeman, who is representing the developers. The buildings have basements and two floors above ground.

Peace Portal condominiums City council is slated to consider six condominiums directly south of the Georgia Street triplexes, at the corner of Peace Portal Drive and Mitchell Avenue. If approved by council, the condos will include parking and utility improvements north of the property. The hearing examiner approved the project’s conditional use permit on January 4.

Semiahmoo Highlands Semiahmoo Highlands developer Wayne Swandt said he anticipates submitting the PUD and preliminary plat application to the city and Whatcom County in March. Swandt said focusing on stormwater management issues and housing market concerns delayed submitting the applications that he had intended to submit last May.

Semiahmoo Highlands is a 353-acre property on Semiahmoo Parkway, northwest of Horizon at Semiahmoo, that will have a few hundred homes with a neighborhood center. The project was originally about 480 units but Swandt said he modified the project for fewer units after the housing market and resident concerns. Construction on the 65

lots in the first phase could start at the end of the year at the earliest, Swandt said.

Over 100 people attended a Semiahmoo Highlands community meeting last March and voiced concern about stormwater management and infrastructure.

“There were a number of things we took into account based on the public meeting we had and changes in the market that made us take another look at our product mix,” Swandt said. “We pulled back to take a longer look at it and focus on stormwater issues, making sure what we’re doing is communicated to our neighbors and involving them in our analytical work.”

Horizon at Semiahmoo

About 10 homes are complete and another 16 are under construction in Horizon at Semiahmoo, said Jennifer Lang, director of marketing for HCD, the Gig Harbor-based real estate company developing the 149-acre subdivision. Two homes are already occupied and another two will have residents by April.

Horizon development spurred after years of staying idle when HCD purchased the housing development between Semiahmoo Parkway and Birch Bay Drive in July 2021. Multi-family housing allowed HCD to double the development’s previously expected residences to over 540 units, between 140 single-family homes and about 400 multi-family units in triplexes and fourplexes.

Horizon has opened its park

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.

with a bocce ball court and another park with horseshoe pits. The north gate on Semiahmoo Parkway is expected to be installed this spring and the gate off Birch Point Road will be installed later.

HCD doesn’t have an estimate on when construction could be complete, Lang said.

Inverness

HCD is also developing Inverness, a 37-acre subdivision next to the Semiahmoo Golf Course that is slated to have 63 single-family lots. After holding a community meeting last June, HCD submitted its planned unit development and preliminary plat application to the city of Blaine. A public hearing is expected to occur in the next couple of months but hasn’t been scheduled, Pratschner said.

The gated subdivision is planned to have public utilities and a private stormwater pond. It will need traffic, wildlife and stormwater studies, among other requirements, according to the city.

Muirfield

Luxury Semiahmoo subdivision Muirfield has three of its 10 custom-designed homes under construction. Developer Denise Macris said the model home will be complete March 1 and she expects to have the remaining homes constructed at the end of 2023 or in 2024. The million-dollar homes, which are on nearly five acres on the westside of Semiahmoo Parkway, are still being sold.

Woodberry

Eleven of the 29 single-family homes in Woodberry have been constructed, developer Brady Mayson said. Woodberry is a 10acre subdivision on Semiahmoo Parkway, just south of Fire Station 62. Mayson said he hopes to have the remaining 18 lots with homes constructed and sold in the next 1.5 years. Six homes have sold since construction started last spring.

“I’m pleased about what has happened lately because there was a point when the interest rates went up when we had no sales and very little activity,” Mayson said. “We had a few sales over the last month, so it seems as though people are adjusting to the newer environment with higher interest rates and are more comfortable with the economy.”

Sea Smoke

Twenty-three homes in Sea Smoke are either finished or under construction, said Swandt, who is also developing Sea Smoke at the corner of Semiahmoo Drive and Semiahmoo Parkway.

Construction on the neighborhood’s first phase should be complete by the end of 2023. The first phase will have 40 residential units, mostly single-family homes, 12 sharedwall homes and four duplexes, Swandt said. The city is reviewing an application for eight more single-family homes.

About 120 residences are permitted in the neighborhood but Swandt said it hasn’t been decided how many will be single-family homes, condominiums or townhomes. A commercial space is also zoned for the project, but he isn’t sure what could go in there, or if it would be residential, or a mix.

Hi, I’m Ruth.

s Two triplexes being constructed on Georgia Street on January 20.

Photos by Grace McCarthy

s About 10 homes have been completed and another 16 are under construction in Horizon at Semiahmoo.

s McDonald’s is under construction next to the recently opened Taco Bell on the Gateway property.

s The Ridge at Harbor Hills on January 20.

In the Garden: Sustainable gardening in time

back into the lawn. Vegetable scraps and fine garden waste can be composted.

For small lots with little space for big compost bins, I’ve heard about worm composting, digesters and the Bokashi method of composting. These break down organic matter into useable compost. Although designed primarily to deal with kitchen waste, I assume that they can handle the small amounts of yard waste from a tiny garden.

Gardeners generally find woody prunings and storm litter more challenging. Some of it can be left where it fell – nature’s own sustainability. That’s even the current ecology advice: Leave as much yard waste as possible until at least spring gardening clean up. However, that’s not always feasible. If you have the space, brown yard waste can be piled in a spot that’s out of the way. However, a major caution is that you do not want to have heaps of wood that could pose a wild fire hazard.

spring

ous kick-back and temperamental fits. You just have to be patient feeding small branches or handfuls of leaves into their openings.

But what else is there to do in the winter garden? And what do you get in return from a chipper or chipper/shredder? Wood and leaf mulch that you didn’t have to buy, and it didn’t need to be trucked in from elsewhere by polluting trucks. How cool is that?

You might still have large branches to deal with. Sometimes they can be left in place, moved to a small brush pile or

incorporated into the garden. Alders of a certain diameter can be used to grow mushrooms, although I personally have had little success with this.

If you have a wood-burning stove, barbeque or fire pit – or a friend who does – and really no place to leave the branches, your best bet is to invest in a chainsaw, cut the branches to size and set them aside to season. Wood ash can even be returned to the garden.

Rhiannon Allen is a gardener in Point Roberts.

Generally, gardeners like to think of themselves as ecologically conscientious and contributing to the natural balance of Earth. Our plants sequester carbon dioxide and exhale oxygen. Deciduous trees shade us from summer sun but let the winter sun shine through.

But let’s not pat ourselves on our backs too soon. There is much room for improvement. For example, a lot of our plants are trucked in from distant wholesale nurseries. Until electric trucks are feasible, that means carbon emissions. Well, at least seeds don’t weigh much or take up a lot of space, so their carbon footprint is smaller (and seed catalog season is almost upon us). Of course, not everyone has the time or facilities for seed saving and starting. For those people, there are local options for starts grown from seed.

If you must pay for something more advanced in growth, then at least consider less bulky plants like young or bare-root plants. And don’t forget to clean and store any plastic pots they come in.

Another sustainability challenge lies in soil improvement. Most gardeners here need to add organic matter, whether it is to enrich our dominantly sandy earth or aerate the pockets of clay in some areas. For decades, gardeners have added peat moss to incorporate organic matter. However, the world is running out of harvestable peat bogs, which also happen to be important for maintaining atmospheric health. If you look at sat-

ellite photographs of Burns Bog in Delta, B.C., you can see the scars left from 20th century peat mining. The “lungs of the Lower Mainland” are now protected. Of course, that means gardeners using peat moss are having their peat trucked in from Quebec and other distant areas.

The solution? One is using coir or coco peat, the shredded fibers of fast-growing coconuts. Better than peat, but imported from distant climes on fuel-burning vessels.

A more sustainable option is using the organic matter your household and garden already generate. Unless diseased or noxious, don’t let organic matter leave your property. Mulching mowers deposit finely cut grass

An ideal solution in my opinion is a chipper or chipper/shredder, although the small machines designed for home rather than an arborist use can’t handle large limbs. Each model will have its own limitations, so research what you buy carefully. Gas-fueled ones can usually handle fatter branches, but I recommend electric ones. They are more sustainable and quieter than gas machines, and seem to be less prone to danger-

B y r HI annon a llen

File photo

Meeting on Birch Point water drainage study draws crowd

About 45 community members gathered at the Birch Bay Village (BBV) clubhouse or tuned in remotely to hear preliminary results from a Birch Point water drainage study during the Birch Bay Watershed and Aquatic Resources Management (BBWARM) District meeting on January 18. Tetra Tech principal engineer Jerry Scheller showed the community the initial findings of how water moved through the area, areas of concern and potential improvements to mitigate flooding.

In July, Whatcom County Council approved Tetra Tech, a consulting and engineering firm, to conduct a Birch Point subwatershed drainage study for nearly $75,000.

“We’re looking at the November ’21 flood, the affects of climate change, the impacts of future developments on flood levels in the area and coming up with solutions to resolve the flooding,” Scheller told attendees.

The 1,600-acre study area encompasses four subwatersheds in the Semiahmoo Uplands, Birch Bay Village, Rogers Slough and Shintaffer areas. There are four drainage outlets for the land, which is about 40 percent housing development.

In the BBV area, flooding was predicted at Bay Ridge Drive and Birch Point Road every two years, Bay Ridge Drive and Selder Road every 10 years, East and West Shoreview every 10 years and at the BBV golf course ponds every 10 years. In the Shintaffer area, flooding could be expected at Birch Bay Drive and Deer Trail every two years, Richmond Park every 25 years and Shintaffer and Anderson roads every 100 years. Flooding was also predicted to overflow from Birch Bay Drive onto Salish Road every two years.

BBV removed a tide gate last November to help the drainage system. Bill Reilly, chairperson of the BBV Lakes and Drainage Committee and the former stormwater manager for the city of Bellingham, said after the meeting that removing the tide gate

has already mitigated flooding impacts. In addition to removing the tide gate, BBV purchased a large pump to remove flood water and is considering installing pipes from Birch Bay Drive to Kwan Lake and then to the bay.

Preliminary study results show the need for replacing and adding culverts, improving ditches and adding pipeline in areas of Beaver Creek, Bay Ridge Estates, Salish Road and Birch Bay Drive, and near Richmond Park and Deer Trail. Early estimates show improvement costs could range from $3.6 to $7.5 million.

“There’s a lot of talk about infrastructure money. I haven’t been

able to find any so ultimately what we’re looking at generally is some BBWARM funds, county funds and road funds,” said Kraig Olason, Whatcom County stormwater program manager, at the meeting. He later added that BBWARM hasn’t raised rates since 2009.

The presenters said they’d be looking at the most critical areas first, such as the Rogers Slough and Richmond Park.

Tetra Tech will now start to consider future development and how those developments will impact the proposed improvements, Scheller said. The finalized findings and recommendations will be presented during a meeting this spring.

Bruce Ansell lives at Deer Trail and Birch Point Road. From his house, Ansell said he sees flooding from Deer Trail, water from Rogers Slough emptying into the bay and king tides reaching near

Cases ...

From page 5

following his guilty plea and time served was included in the May 30 case sentence.

Birch Bay graffiti suspect serves time for unlawful possession

A Blaine man who was arrested in February 2021 for leaving a trail of “KJ” graffiti marks and other messages around Birch Bay served time for a separate charge he was arrested for months later. He was found in possession of a firearm in April 2021 after driving off the road in the early morning.

Joshua Ryan Taylor, 38, of Blaine, was sentenced October 13, 2022, to three months in jail after pleading guilty to second-degree unlawful possession of a firearm in Whatcom County Superior Court. He also pleaded guilty to second-degree malicious mischief, felony harassment and intimidating a public servant for the graffiti case, which was dismissed following his separate plea. Having served his time leading up to the sentencing, he was released from Whatcom County Jail October 13, 2022, following his plea, according to the jail roster.

Just after 3 a.m. April 23, 2021, WCSO deputies had responded to a single vehicle collision near the intersection of Delta Line

the edge of Birch Point Road.

“I thought they did a good job presenting the complexity of the problem; how big it is and how expensive it will be,” Ansell said. “Like everything in the county, it’s in need of funding. I’m afraid the problem will get significantly worse before they can take care of the problem.”

BBWARM’s project schedule is full right now, which means they would need to get additional help, Olason said.

“Even if we had everything in place, it’s probably at least two years from now before we could get all of the permits and get to most of the projects listed, with the exception of some ditch cleaning,” Olason said. “It’s not going to be tomorrow for sure. And again, it’s also going to involve funding determinations and how we’re going to pay for things.”

Road and Vista Drive. A witness reported Taylor was driving at a high rate of speed through a four-way intersection and nearly struck them with his vehicle, according to the APC.

While emergency personnel removed Taylor from the vehicle, deputies found a pistol outside the car. The firearm held an 18-round magazine with 14 bullets inside and no bullet in the chamber, according to the APC. Taylor was not allowed to possess a firearm because of previous felonies and a no-contact harassment order.

Taylor was booked into Whatcom County Jail June 30, 2022, after a bench warrant was issued for his arrest when he failed to appear in court. As described in the graffiti case’s APC, deputies responded February 21, 2021 to a Birch Bay-Lynden Road apartment for a report of domestic violence. At the apartment, deputies found spray paint cans and painted wooden letters K and J.

Deputies arrested Taylor on February 27, 2021. During the arrest, he admitted to spray painting a slur on the seawall at the 8200 block of Birch Bay Drive. Taylor threatened the sheriff’s deputy who transported him to jail. The sheriff’s deputy determined Taylor’s statements constituted a threat of retaliation.

s Tetra Tech principal engineer Jerry Scheller on January 18.

Photo by Grace McCarthy

s Tetra Tech principal engineer Jerry Scheller presented the preliminary results of a Birch Point water drainage study to about 45 people during the BBWARM meeting at Birch Bay Village on January 18.

Photo by Grace McCarthy

IN

IN

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 REPRESENTATIVE: SUSAN MARY POLLARD

ATTORNEY FOR PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE: Mark W. Stowe, WSBA #16655

ADDRESS FOR MAILING OR SERVICE: Mark W. Stowe, Attorney Stowe Law PLLC 276 Boundary Bay Rd. P.O. Box 129 Point Roberts, WA 98281 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

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

23-4-00071-37.

NOTICE TO CREDI-

TORS. Judge David E. Freeman

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

Date of Filing of Notice to Creditors: January 24, 2023 with Clerk of Court:

Date of First Publication: January 26, 2023

Name of Administrator: MEAGAN FRANKS

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: January 24, 2023

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

Attorney for Administrator: MEAGAN FRANKS www.averyelderlaw.com

IN

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

THE SUPERIOR COURT OF THE STATE OF WASHINGTON IN AND FOR WHATCOM COUNTY In re the Estate of: JOHN FREDERICK SANDERS, Deceased. No.

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

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

Mike Kent 360.815.3898

8637

MLS

Nootka Loop MLS #2008787

5486 Salish Road

MLS #2011655

8026 Birch Bay Dr Unit #214

7587

Sterling Ave

$749,900

MLS #2013573 $399,900

MLS# 1997216

$299,500

low-bank waterfront lots in Birch Bay Village. Property backs directly onto beach with spectacular views of the bay and Mt Baker. Recent Topographic Survey shows level site with 60.2 ft of beachfront. Sale also includes completed Cultural Resources/Archaeology Report, and Tsunami Hazard Report with Ordinary High-Water Mark. Comprehensive information to expedite your development process. Water, sewer, electricity, and natural gas available in street. Enjoy all that Birch Bay Village has to offer, including private marina, boat launch, security.

One

This pristine home sits in the secure gated community of The Greens at Loomis Trail and located within a short walk of the award-winning Loomis Trail Golf Course. Situated east to west, offering great sun exposure with a view of the golf course. A large, fenced backyard with a deck gives a perfect space for entertaining and gardening. There are 3 bedrooms and 2 1/2 Baths! Natural Gas forced air heating and cooling, a main floor primary bedroom with private bath, livingroom with fireplace, formal dining room, and upgraded kitchen. Located minutes from 1-5, area beaches, trail systems, and the Birch Bay Square Mall for your shopping needs. 5 min response time for EMT services. See Broker remarks for additional home features.

Jeffrey Carringhton 360.220.3224

Matt Berry 360.389.0104

Beautiful custom residence designed by renowned Architectural firm “Nicon International”. In Pacific Northwest’s fabulous Birch Bay Village gated marina, golf & beach community. Extraordinary details throughout w/craftsman quality woodwork & dramatic open plan. Huge owner’s suite above the oversize garage. rich tilework, chef’s kitchen w/large dining space, hardwood floors, separate family & living rooms, gas fireplaces...& list goes on. Outside enjoy 2 sundecks w/covered front deck w/partial mtn. & water views. Fenced back yard & deep driveway.

Lisa Kent 360.594.8034

1700 Peace Portal Dr.

MLS #2014056

$569,999

Unique opportunity to maximize this building to its fullest potential with your vision and fresh ideas. This building is two stories with two separate entrances. The top unit is a 1400 sqft turn-key ready restaurant including all kitchen equipment. Large front windows for lots of natural light, 2 bathrooms, and plenty of front-row parking. The downstairs unit is a fully remodeled light and bright apartment, or you can make it a business office. This open-floor layout plan includes 3 spacious rooms and 1 full bathroom. All new stainlesssteel appliances, mini-split heating, and ample parking. This building has many possibilities, zoned commercial in an extraordinary location, and close to I-5 & the heart of downtown Blaine Jessica Bates 360.410.0900

Winter pricing! Must see penthouse located in the heart of Birch Bay with stunning island and west facing sunset views. See both the San Juan 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 sunsets, people watching, and legendary July 4th firework shows. Complex features a sport court, indoor pool, hot tub, clubhouse, bicycle storage, plus parking spaces for crab boat storage (a Birch Bay must-have). A short distance to the beach.

Gerry Allen 360.920.0563

9499 Semiahmoo Pkwy #B-10A

MLS #2020317

$750,000

This waterfront two-story condo is located on Semiahmoo Spit, in the gated Beachwalker Villas Community. Walls of windows with breathtaking views of Semiahmoo Bay draw you in from the moment you walk through the door. You’ll love spending time here with the updated gas fireplace, and an open main living area for easy entertaining. Upstairs you’ll find the full primary suite with a duplicate view, a 2nd bedroom with its own full bathroom, balcony, & washer/ dryer. Perfect opportunity for a work-from-home setup, a guestroom, or whatever meets your needs in the third bedroom below. Just steps away from Semiahmoo resort, golf, marina, coffee shop, & all the PNW offers! Ideal for full-time, seasonal, or vacation living.

Brandi Coplen 360.201.3951

Birch Bay opportunity for a nice size homesite with shop/garage and outbuilding. Home in need of leveling or replace with newer model. Not far from all Birch Bay amenities including Birch Bay State Park, restaurant’s, shopping, waterslides, new Birch Bay Berm project now completed, and a new Birch Bay community park scheduled for completion this next year. This Parklike setting is one of a kind and will offer a very special private and serene location and experience. Bring the RV or Motorhome and use as a snowbird. Works very well here.

Brain Southwick 360.815.6638

9540 Semiahmoo Unit #L-11

MLS #2019642 $52,000

Your gateway slip to the San Juans, Gulf Islands, and BC Coast. This 36 ft. slip, is in one of the best marinas in the Pacific Northwest. Low price, dues, excellent management, clean facility, and port tie on L dock with easy entrance and exit. Unit includes 30amp power, Wi-Fi, dock box for storage, keyless entry to the laundry room, mail room, restrooms, shower facility, and members-only patio, just outside the gate. Reduced fuel prices for members and discounts at the cafe and boat store. Short walk to the Inn at Semiahmoo with restaurants, spa, and pool amenities. World-class crabbing,

Jessica Bates 360.410.0900

All real estate/rentals advertising in this newspaper is subject to the Federal Fair Housing Act of 1968 as amended, which makes it illegal to advertise any preference, limitation or discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, handicap familial status or national origin, or an intention to make any such preference, limitation or discrimination. This newspaper will not knowingly accept any advertisement for real estate which is in violation of the law. Our readers are hereby informed that all dwellings advertised in this newspaper are available on an equal opportunity basis. To complain of discrimination, call HUD toll-free at 1-800877-0246.

All real estate/rentals advertising in this newspaper is subject to the Federal Fair Housing Act of 1968 as amended, which makes it illegal to advertise any preference, limitation or discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, handicap, familial status or national origin, or an intention to make any such preference, limitation or discrimination. This newspaper will not knowingly accept any advertisement for real estate which is in olation of the law. Our readers are hereby informed that all dwellings advertised in this newspaper are available on an equal opportunity basis. To complain of discrimination, call HUD toll-free at 1-800-877-0246.

Road Rules: Backseat drivers

B y D ou G D a H l

Question: When I drive with a certain person in the passenger seat, they’re always telling me to watch out for brake lights, check my speed, back off from the car in front of me and so on. I think I’m a good driver and they’re overreacting, but I don’t want to start a fight. How should I deal with a backseat driver (or passenger seat driver)?

Answer: Do you know who the worst backseat drivers are? Fifteen-year-olds. They’re at the age where they think they might be smart enough to challenge a grown-up, and their driver’s ed classes are fresh in their minds. What makes them the worst isn’t how they correct you, or that you’re used to being the one in charge. It’s that they’re right.

I don’t know if it’s your kid, your spouse or a friend who’s doing the backseat driving, but the human response to criticism is near universal. Nobody, at least nobody I know, likes it. But just because you don’t like what someone says doesn’t mean they’re wrong.

There are a lot of traffic laws, but I only found one that could apply to backseat drivers (although, from what you described, it doesn’t apply to your backseat driver.) Before I present the law, I’ll note that I’ve never met anyone who received a ticket for violating it, and I couldn’t find any case law addressing this law. I mention that to say that I’m not sure how this law should be applied, but it seems like it’s on topic. Now, the law (paraphrased for brevity): It shall be unlawful for any person to direct the operator of any vehicle to require or knowingly permit the operation

OBITUARIES

Trevor Corbett Hoskins

October

8, 1934 – January 20, 2023

Trevor Corbett Hoskins, age 88, died January 20 in Bellingham. Trevor was born and educated in England. Following service in the Royal Air Force, in 1956 he began a career in advertising, public affairs and public relations. He was also involved with Formula 1 racing and worked closely with Mario Andretti, who won the world F1 championship in 1978.

Trevor worked with British, American, and Japanese companies and travelled extensively. He was transferred to the USA in 1975 and became a US citizen in 1981. In 1988, he retired as senior vice president of public affairs for Bridgestone/Firestone. He was a successful long-distance runner, running 50,000 miles in 45 countries, including marathons. He also enjoyed tennis, rugby, cricket, golf, and boating.

He is survived by his much-loved wife Judy; his son Mathew (Brooke); his sister Stephanie (Jim); and stepsons Jay (Jennie), Tim (Michelle), and Kevin; as well as several grandsons and granddaughters.

There will be no services. Memorial gifts can be made to Whatcom Hospice and Hospice House.

of such vehicle in any manner contrary to the law.

That sounds to me like if a passenger told you to speed, or cut off another driver, or tailgate, they’d be breaking this law. And you don’t want to hear this next part, but maybe you could make the case that if a passenger knew you were violating the law and didn’t speak up, they’d be guilty of permitting the illegal operation of a vehicle. Yes, that’s a stretch, but if anything, the law leans in favor of your backseat driver.

You said you’re a good driver, and that might be true, but let’s consider the alternative. Sure, your passenger might be a control freak who’s going to find fault in anything that doesn’t involve them. But for many people, it takes some courage to confront another person or call out a behavior they’re not comfortable with. If your driving makes your passenger uneasy, is it possible that you’ve been driving with yourself for so long that you don’t notice your poor driving habits?

Sometimes it takes an outsider to notice what’s been in front of you all along.

It also takes some self-awareness to endure a critical passenger and not want to get in a fight, so I commend you. As someone completely unqualified to give counseling advice, here’s some advice. You can’t control the delivery of the criticism, but you can choose your response. Take a moment to search for truth in the criticism. Engage in an honest conversation with your car mate, and listen to their concerns. If your backseat driver is right, and you change your driving because of it, you’ll become a better driver. If they’re wrong, and you respond in a way that resolves the backseat driving problem and leaves the other person’s dignity intact, you’ll become a better human. Sounds like a win either way.

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

Donna Lee Binnie Leach

June 19, 1938 – January 15, 2023

Donna Lee Binnie Leach passed away on January 15, 2023, in Blaine, at the age of 84. She was born in Chicago, IL, on June 19, 1938. Donna graduated from Lakeview High School in 1956. She met her husband Ron at a dance in Chicago, and they married in September of 1959.

Donna is survived by her husband of 63 years, Ron; their three sons, Kevin, Jeffrey and Gregory; grandchildren Jacob, Nick, Brian and Richelle; and a dear nephew, Bob Hack. She was preceded in death by her parents and her sister, Jan Hack. Donna was quiet, reserved, and the essence of a real lady.

Donna and Ron left Chicago and moved to Seattle in 1974. She was employed by the Bon Marché and Nordstrom as a salesperson and cosmetician, retiring in June of 2000. Subsequently, she and Ron moved to Blaine.

In retirement, Donna and Ron traveled throughout Europe, East Asia and Australia. She enjoyed socializing with the Semiahmoo Ladies Club and was also an avid reader and long-time member of her book group, Tuesdays with Books.

The family would like to thank Whatcom Hospice for their kind attention during Donna’s last days.

Memorials may be made to Grace Lutheran Church, 702 G Street, Blaine, WA 98230.

643-0499

File photo

Jan. 9, 11:13 a.m.: Suspicious circumstances on Sweet Road.

Jan. 9, 6:34 p.m.: Suspicious circumstances on Kickerville and Birch Bay-Lynden roads.

Jan. 9, 8 p.m.: Assist agency on Creasey Road, Custer.

Jan. 10, 7:56 a.m.: Motor vehicle accident injury on Drayton Harbor Road.

Jan. 10, 3:35 p.m.: Motor vehicle accident on Custer School Road, Custer.

Jan. 10, 4:11 p.m.: Motor vehicle accident on Custer School Road, Custer.

Jan. 10, 5:48 p.m.: Suspicious vehicle on Northwest Drive.

Jan. 11, 8:08 a.m.: Suspicious person on Birch Bay Road.

Jan. 11, 4:51 p.m.: Overdose on Birch Bay-Lynden Road.

Jan. 11, 5:04 p.m.: Traffic hazard on Custer School Road, Custer.

Jan. 11, 6:05 p.m.: Burglary on Birch Bay Drive.

Jan. 11, 6:57 p.m.: Prowler on Petticote Lane.

Jan. 11, 7:53 p.m.: Burglary on Roger Road.

Jan. 12, 9:12 a.m.: Suspicious vehicle on Surf Place.

Jan. 12, 11:59 a.m.: Trouble with a subject on Gemini Street.

Jan. 12, 6:07 p.m.: DUI on Birch Bay-Lynden Road, Custer.

Jan. 12, 8:51 p.m.: Domestic

order violation on Harborview Road.

Jan. 13, 9:25 a.m.: Harassment on Harborview Road.

Jan. 13, 2:03 p.m.: Mental health issue on Surf Place.

Jan. 14, 1:47 p.m.: Trespass on Kickerville Road.

Jan. 14, 4:21 p.m.: Motor vehicle accident on Blaine and Drayton Harbor roads.

Jan. 14, 7:19 p.m.: Motor vehicle accident injury on Custer School and Birch Bay-Lynden

roads, Custer.

Jan. 14, 9:20 p.m.: Mental health issue on Surf Place.

Jan. 14, 10:54 p.m.: Suspicious vehicle on Gemini Street.

Jan. 15, 5:42 p.m.: Impound private on Harborview Road.

Jan. 15, 7:38 p.m.: Mental health issue on Surf Place.

Jan. 16, 10:37 a.m.: Domestic verbal on Haynie Road.

Jan. 16, 11:41 a.m.: Harassment on Harborview Road.

pOLiCe repOrts

Jan. 13, 11:36 a.m.: Theft on A Street.

Jan. 13, 1:35 p.m.: Assault simple on H Street.

Jan. 13, 1:40 a.m.: Drugs on H Street.

Jan. 13, 4:45 p.m.: Motor vehicle accident on Marine Drive.

Jan. 14, 3:16 p.m.: Assist agency on Peace Portal Drive.

Jan. 15, 11:41 p.m.: Assist agency on 2nd Street.

Jan. 16, 5:51 p.m.: Counterfeit on H Street.

Jan. 16, 6:06 p.m.: Disorderly conduct on Marine Drive.

Jan. 17, 9:16 a.m.: Landlord tenant dispute on Clyde Street.

Jan. 18, 9:23 a.m.: Assault simple on Marine Drive.

CrOssWOrd

Jan. 18, 11:52 a.m.: Juvenile problem on H Street.

Jan. 18, 3:46 p.m.: Lewd conduct on 3rd Street.

Jan. 18, 3:58 p.m.: Assist citizen on H Street.

Jan. 19, 9:07 a.m.: Theft on Blaine Avenue.

Jan. 19, 1:12 p.m.: Sex offender registration on C Street.

Jan. 19, 1:41 p.m.: Sex registration on 11th Street.

Jan. 19, 9:25 p.m.: Sex crime (no rape) on A Street.

Jan. 20, 1:06 p.m.: Drugs on H Street.

Jan. 20, 6:32 p.m.: Assist citizen on H Street.

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 trees/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’s new location, 7620 Birch Bay Drive. New registration required at thebridgehope.com or call 360/366-8763. Volunteers welcome.

CAP 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.

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.

tidesFriends 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.

Jan 26 to Feb 1 at Blaine. Not for navigation.

49° 0’ 0”N - 122° 46’ 0”W

DATE TIME HEIGHT TIME HEIGHT

Th 26 2:06 am 4.5 9:10 am 14.9

3:47 pm 7.4 9:03 pm 11.2

Fr 27 2:50 am 6.5 9:40 am 14.6

4:41 pm 6.3 10:45 pm 10.9

Sa 28 3:40 am 8.4 10:10 am 14.2

5:37 pm 5.4

Su 29 12:39 am 11.3 4:40 am 10.2

10:42 am 13.7 6:29 pm 4.6

Mo 30 2:25 am 12.2 6:10 am 11.5

11:12 am 13.3 7:21 pm 4.1

Tu 31 3:45 am 13.2 8:06 am 12.1

11:48 am 12.8 8:11 pm 3.8

We 1 4:37 am 13.8 9:42 am 12.1

12:32 pm 12.4 8:57 pm 3.6

Weather

Precipitation: During the period of January 16-22, 0.9 inches of precipitation were recorded. The 2023 year-to-date precipitation is 2.5 inches.

Temperature: High for the past week was 55°F on January 16 with a low of 33°F on January 21. Average high was 47°F and average low was 37°F.

Courtesy Birch Bay Water & Sewer Dist.

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.

Birch Bay Book Club: Wednesday, January 18, 4 p.m., Birch Bay Vogt Library site, 7968 Birch Bay Drive. January title: Cold Millions by Jess Walter. Info: klia1@mac.com.

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.

Blaine 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.

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.

ANSWERS: THENORTHERNLIGHT.COM

Report by Blaine Police Department

Petrogas agrees to $4 million settlement for unpermitted expansion at Cherry Point facility

B y I an H aupt

Petrogas West LLC has agreed to pay $4 million and make operational changes to its Cherry Point facility for expanding without necessary permits. It’s the largest penalty settlement in the Northwest Clean Air Agency’s (NWCAA) 56-year history, according to a January 18 NWCAA press release.

In October 2021, NWCAA alleged that Petrogas had undertaken projects without obtaining required permits and reporting emissions resulting from those projects. The $4 million settlement resolves the agency’s allegations.

NWCAA executive director Mark Buford said the allegations were serious and the company should have obtained permits before making physical and operational changes from 2015 through 2020 that increased facility emissions by hundreds of tons per year.

“The changes didn’t go through air quality permitting review and the increased emissions weren’t reported,” Buford said in a statement. “If the company had obtained permits for the changes, controls would have been required that would have prevented most of those emissions. The facility did install interim controls in 2021 that have been effective while permanent controls are

planned. But the emissions never should have happened.”

In December 2020, AltaGas, an energy infrastructure company based in Calgary, Alberta, took over controlling interest of Petrogas. Through emissions self-disclosures submitted to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and NWCAA in May 2021, AltaGas notified both agencies that it had found an unpermitted venting of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) at the facility, The Northern Light previously reported

The facility is the only operating liquefied petroleum gas export terminal on the west coast, according to Petrogas.

A NWCAA investigation found Petrogas failed to disclose uncontrolled emissions of VOCs from 2014 through 2020. It also failed to apply for prevention of significant deterioration permits and an air operating permit. Petrogas’ undisclosed emissions exceeded the threshold of these permits.

The facility also failed to follow NWCAA issued notices of construction in January 2016, May 2017 and October 2018, according to the agency.

Most of the unreported emissions consisted of propane, a VOC that can combine with heat, sunlight and other chemicals to form ground-level ozone. Ozone exposure can impact people who

breathe it, including those with asthma and other lung issues, according to NWCAA.

NWCAA spokesperson Seth Preston previously said based on the agency’s air quality monitoring system, it does not believe the facility’s emissions increase has been harmful to the community.

“We did not see any immediate health impact from the increased emissions from the vent at Petrogas,” he said.

The penalty settlement comes after the facility installed temporary controls on the VOC vent in June 2021 to stop excess emissions and submitted an appli-

Tips to stay ahead of fraud during tax filing season

With the 2022 tax filing season officially open as of January 23, it’s an opportune time to take some basic security measures to avoid becoming a victim of tax identity fraud.

Tax ID fraud is one of many types of general tax scams, which keeps government enforcement agencies busy. Late last year, the IRS Criminal Investigation division announced it identified $5.7 billion in tax fraud for fiscal year 2022, versus $2.3 billion from two years earlier.

cation for required permits and orders. According to NWCAA, current Petrogas management has worked diligently and cooperatively with the agency to resolve the matter.

“The current leadership operating the Petrogas facility has been very open and forthcoming,” Buford said in the release.

“In what was a difficult series of conversations for them, I noted their determination to understand rather than defend past mistakes to keep them from happening again. That’s a good indicator of commitment to sustained positive change.”

Tax ID fraud occurs when a perpetrator uses the Social Security number (SSN) and other personally identifiable information (PII) of an individual to file a fraudulent tax return and claim a refund. Other PII could include key items such as W-2 tax forms, addresses and date of birth. The criminals will attempt to file a refund early in the filing season before the real taxpayer files their own return.

What criminals are doing Criminals resort to different methods to illegally obtain PII and perpetrate tax fraud. Once they obtain PII, it’s off to the races.

(See Fraud, page 16)

Do You Want To Significantly Increase Those Sales?

Did you know?

s Petrogas West LLC will pay $4 million and make operational changes to its Cherry Point facility. Photo by Ian Haupt

Fraud ...

From page 15

In one case, a man was convicted for filing more than 30 fraudulent income tax returns in the names of 12 different trusts, according to the IRS Criminal Investigation’s report for the 2022 fiscal year, which ended September 2022.

In another scam, a computer consultant wrote a program to store stolen identities and automatically file tax returns, with refunds deposited onto prepaid debit cards. Another perpetrator was sentenced for stealing the PII of 65,000 employees of the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, then selling the data on the dark web to conspirators, who promptly filed hundreds of false 1040 re -

turns in 2014.

Often, victims of such scams find out only after their taxes have been filed either by themselves or a hired preparer, only to receive a letter of rejection from the IRS due to multiple filings. This happens year after year, notes Kathryn Albright, global payments and deposits executive with Umpqua Bank, a Portland, Oregon-based institution with $32 billion in assets.

“Criminals unfortunately will aggressively prey on sensitive information they can use to perpetrate identity theft, and filing early tax returns at this time of year is one ruse they keep coming back to,” Albright says. “Consumers, businesses, trusts, non-profits – basically anybody who has to file – could end up being a victim.”

Tips to avoid tax ID fraud

Here are some ways you can help protect yourself from tax ID fraud for this and future tax seasons:

• File your taxes as early as possible. Many reporting schedules such as 1099s won’t be made available until mid-February, but you should receive them well ahead of this year’s April 18 federal filing deadline. Speed can be critical to securing your tax filings – and identity. If you beat fraudsters to filing your own taxes, they can’t control where your refund goes.

• Consider using an Identity Theft (IP) PIN. The code is a six-digit number that prevents someone else from filing a tax return using your SSN or taxID number. These PINs used to be assigned to victims of identity theft to help them confirm their identity, but now everyone is eligible. You first must pass an identity verification process.

The PIN is valid for one calendar year, with a new one generated each January. More information is available on the IRS website at bit.ly/3j06pOm.

• Research potential tax preparers before providing them with sensitive personal information. If you elect to have somebody else do your taxes, be sure they’re a qualified, trusted and reputable preparer. Use the IRS’s searchable directory to help you find a qualified tax professional if necessary.

• Watch for schemes to take your SSN. There are numerous scams aimed at stealing SSNs (and other sensitive person -

al information). Don’t provide such information to unfamiliar contacts – especially if you’re unexpectedly asked to do so by a stranger via email, text message or even on social media. The IRS doesn’t use those methods to contact individuals.

• Use secure, trusted devices when filing your taxes online. When collecting your tax documents and then filing online, be sure you’re using as secure a computer as possible. That includes running the most updated versions of security software, internet browsers and operating systems, and that your computer is connected to a trusted, safe internet connection. (For example, if possible, consider using a personal laptop connected to your home Wi-Fi network rather than a shared computer with a public internet connection.)

• Place a security freeze on your credit reports. Freezing your credit reports with the top three credit bureaus (Equifax, Experian and TransUnion) could help prevent further damages if a fraudster does steal your identity. When you place a freeze, you’ll set up an account with each of the agencies. Store the passwords to each of the sites in a safe place. You can always temporarily unfreeze your report in order to get any credit needs approved.

“Start preparing your taxes as soon as possible so that when you do have all of the documents, you’ll be ready to file much earlier than the April deadline,” Albright says. “Use

checklists to help keep track of all of the incoming documents. Throughout the tax season, keep an extra watchful eye on your credit reports and bank account details to make sure there’s no unexpected or unusual activity that could be linked to fraud. It’s a little bit of extra work that will help you feel more secure, and less stressed.”

What to do if you become a victim

If you make the unfortunate discovery that somebody stole your identity to file your taxes, consider performing the following actions as soon as possible:

• Contact the IRS and complete form 14039 (Identity Theft Affidavit) or call 800/9084490 for specialized assistance.

• Follow the instructions that you receive in any letter from the IRS alerting you of a potential stolen tax identity theft situation. Then, report the situation to both the IRS and the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) at identitytheft.gov to initiate a recovery plan.

• Secure your IP PIN and any other details you receive from the IRS and other federal agencies/law enforcement to prevent future identity theft.

• Place a fraud alert on your credit reports – and consider freezing them altogether if you haven’t already done so.

For more information about preventing tax fraud, visit the FTC website at bit.ly/3wniK1Z and the IRS website at bit. ly/3wr9QAw.

Courtesy Umpqua Bank