The Northern Light: May 11-17, 2023

City considers pursuing charges related to credit card transactions

The city of Blaine is looking into pursuing criminal charges against a former public works director who has been accused of using a city credit card for personal purchases. The decision comes after the state auditor’s office recently completed a fraud investigation that confirmed the city’s findings last year and found more misappropriations, which totaled $8,600 altogether.

Last July, Bernie Ziemianek was asked to resign from his position as the city’s public works director after a city investigation found he allegedly misused a work credit card for at least $4,000, according to records previously obtained by The Northern Light The finance department began the investigation in late June after a public works employee questioned Ziemianek’s purchase of a $1,200 electric concrete grinder. The city investigation found Ziemianek had eight credit card transactions totaling $7,600 that were “inappropriate and odd” from October 2021 to July 1, 2022, including the electric concrete grinder, a saw, and building code and plumbing handbooks, city records show. City staff could not prove all of those purchases were misused, and Ziemianek paid back $4,150 immediately after his resignation.

The city then submitted its investigation to the Washington state auditor’s office for review. The state auditor’s office published its fraud investigation on April 24, along with the city’s regular audit. It found $4,500 in questionable transactions from June 2021 to November 2021 that it was unable to determine were for business and $4,100 in misappropriations from March 2022 to June 2022. The purchases totaled $8,600.

The auditor’s office recommended in its report that the city retrieve the $9,200, which includes investigation costs, either from the former public works director or insurance.

The audit found weaknesses in the city’s internal review processes on expenditures, and processes have been put in place to ensure misuse of public funds doesn’t hap-

(See Audit, page 5)

Blaine Oyster Festival to benefit local nonprofits

B y G race M c c arthy

Blaine Oyster Festival is returning Saturday, May 20 for people to enjoy oysters in downtown Blaine while benefiting local nonprofits. The festival will bring back some of the highlights that made last year’s inaugural event a success while introducing new family-friendly activities. The festival runs noon to 8 p.m.

The oyster festival will have a seafood barbecue where punch cards can be purchased at the G Street Plaza and Blaine Welcome Center for oysters and clams. Net proceeds will be evenly split between local nonprofits Community Assistance Program, Nooksack Salmon Enhancement Association, Girl Scouts and Blaine Chamber of Commerce.

“The structure of this event is different

from October but I’m really hopeful that it will resonate with the community that local nonprofits are getting involved and getting support,” Blaine chamber director Jacquee Sovereign said. “I would love to see them be very successful at the event.”

A street fair will take over H Street with over 35 vendors selling arts and crafts, jewelry, soaps, woodwork, beauty products and other goods. H Street will be closed one block from Peace Portal Drive to 3rd Street, but Peace Portal Drive will be open to vehicle traffic, Sovereign said. The fair will run noon to 5 p.m.

Live bands will be performing throughout the day. Alex Britton and Pretty Much Nothing will play modern rock at G Street

(See Festival, page 2)

s McDonald’s opened its Blaine location on May 10 at 747 Grant Avenue, on the corner of H Street and State Route 543. The fast food restaurant will be open from 6 a.m. to 11 p.m., though the hours are subject to change, said Joanna Paine, administrative assistant for McDonald’s Bellingham office.

Photo by Grace McCarthy

Festival ...

From page 1

Plaza, and the bands Kickerville, The Three Radicals and The Takers will play classic rock at H Street Plaza.

In addition to live music, G Street Plaza will be full of other activities noon to 6 p.m. Beach

Cat Brewery will have a beer garden, and there will be a kids food court with ice cream floats, lemonade and hot dogs on the plaza.

Semiahmoo Resort will also host a salmon cooking demonstration.

Drayton Harbor Oyster Company will be serving barbecued and raw oysters at its restaurant at H Street Plaza, and proceeds will go to Drayton Harbor wa-

ter-quality monitoring.

A shuttle from downtown will transport people to Blaine Marine Park for Blaine Birch Bay Park and Recreation District 2’s “Picnic at the Playground” through mid-afternoon. The pirate playground will have games and crafts for children three years and up, said parks and rec activity coordinator Celine Mauger. Hot dogs and refreshments will be sold for $1, and a Kona Ice truck will be at the playground.

The parks and recreation district is putting on the event in conjunction with oyster fest and as a celebration of Kids to the Park Day, an annual day of outdoor play celebrated nationwide. The park activities will take place from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. A shuttle bus will run every 20 minutes to take people to and from the park and downtown, with the

potential to run more frequently, depending on demand, Mauger said.

Blaine Police Department is expected to have at least one police officer patrolling the festival, Sovereign said.

“I’m excited to see how the changes we’ve made to this event will make things go more smoothly,” Sovereign said. “Seeing the community together and the event will be fun.”

Filing week May 15-19

The Whatcom County Auditor’s Office will accept applications of candidates who want to run for office from Monday, May 15 through Friday, May 19.

All seats are up on Blaine school board as well as seats on Blaine City Council, Fire Protection District 21 and Birch Bay Water and Sewer District. The county’s sheriff, assessor, auditor and treasurer will be in the race. The Whatcom County Council seat that represents Blaine and Birch Bay is up for election as well as one of county council’s at-large seats. The Port of Bellingham commissioner who represents Blaine and Birch Bay will also be up for election.

s Blaine Oyster Festival in 2022.

Photo by Ruth Lauman

rivate Country Estate

Developer withdraws city code change request for manufactured home parks

East Harbor Hills developers have withdrawn their request to address inconsistencies in the city’s code that would allow for large manufactured home parks in East Blaine.

City manager Michael Harmon announced that the text amendment request was withdrawn during the May 8 city council meeting, which was days before a planning commission meeting was scheduled to hold a second public hearing on the proposal.

East Harbor Hills developer Skip Jansen said he and his wife, Katie, are evaluating their options for the property. He said they would not build a manufactured home park that is under five acres, which city code currently allows, on the property because it wouldn’t be practical.

“We’re not sure what the next thing is but we’re stepping back and looking at all of our options

at this point,” Jansen said.

The code change has been an arduous debate in planning commission over the past year that has brought dozens of east Blaine residents to voice their opposition at the meetings.

Jansen had previously said the city encouraged him to apply for a text amendment change after he and the city discovered code inconsistencies between the east Blaine zoning code and the code for planned unit developments (PUD). The underlying zoning code allowed for large manufactured home parks in east Blaine, while the code for PUDs, which are five acres or larger, does not.

East Blaine residents have said they are not against manufactured homes but they are against manufactured homes’ potential lack of affordability and land ownership, watershed impacts, loss of city property tax revenue and other impacts.

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The planning commission first held a public hearing on the proposal last December and, after a long debate, pushed the vote on whether to recommend Blaine City Council approve the code change to planning commission’s February meeting. The commission then decided at its February meeting to hold a second public hearing during its April meeting. The April meeting was canceled for the city to look at the request’s compliance with the city’s comprehensive plan and state law.

City code currently allows manufactured home parks under five acres to be built. If the request had been approved, any large manufactured home park development, including East Harbor Hills, would have needed separate approval.

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East Harbor Hills will be built between Jansen’s other development, The Ride at Harbor Hills, and Grandis Pond.

North Cascades Highway now open

State Highway 20, which connects Whatcom and Skagit counties with eastern Washington, opened May 10.

Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) announced on its social media pages that North Cascades Highway was set to reopen at 10 a.m. Wednesday, May 10 – the same day it reopened last year. The highway is Washington’s northernmost mountain pass and connects

the Skagit Valley with the Methow Valley through the North Cascades.

Every year SR 20 closes around mid-November for the winter, and WSDOT typically reopens the mountain pass in early May. Winter recreationists – snowmobilers, skiers, snowshoers, etc. – can still access the closed portion of the highway.

WSDOT crews began clearing the road on March 27. The

Spring

nearly seven-week process consists of clearing some six feet of snow and repairing damaged portions of the road.

“Big thanks to our crews for all their hard work up there and we look forward to one of the most scenic roads in the state being open,” WSDOT posted. “Please be aware that there are very few services and little cell phone coverage up there so if you do head across, please be prepared and safe!”

Inslee won’t seek reelection, candidates vying for governor position

Governor Jay Inslee has announced he won’t seek reelection for governor and other candidates have already announced their intent to run for the position.

Inslee announced on May 1 that he would not enter the race for Washington state governor in 2024. Inslee was last welected in 2020 and is only the state’s sec-

ond governor to serve three consecutive terms, according to the governor’s office.

Inslee said he was proud of climate policies, family leave benefits, college scholarship programs, an improved legal system and gun violence prevention laws established during his leadership.

“During a decade of dynamic change, we’ve made Washington a beacon for progress for the na-

tion,” Inslee wrote in a statement.

“I’m ready to pass the torch.” Inslee’s announcement has already attracted candidates vying for the governor position. Hilary Franz, the state’s commissioner of public lands, announced May 10 that she would run as governor. State attorney general Bob Ferguson also announced he was interested in running for governor. Both politicians are Democrats.

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s Governor Jay Inslee.

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The Northern L ght

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

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

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

Letters Policy

The Northern Light welcomes letters to the editor. Please include name, address and daytime telephone number for verification. Letters are limited to 350 words and may be edited or rejected for reasons of legality, length and good taste. 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

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The Northern Light 225 Marine Drive, Suite 200, Blaine, WA 98230

Tel: 360/332-1777

Vol XXVIII, No 47

Circulation: 10,500 copies

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“Cinco de Jazz” showcases local arts talent OpiniOn Letters

The Editor:

With just over a year under my belt in 1994, as a police officer in St. Louis with the St. Louis Metropolitan Police Department, I remember receiving the information I never wanted to hear: One of our officers was killed. On September 11, 1994, police officer Todd Meriwether was shot and killed during a robbery attempt in front of his home while putting an anti-theft device on his vehicle. The news was jarring and shocking. I reflected on the numerous times I had placed my anti-theft device on my vehicle. Something so normal, so routine. The robber was also killed as he and officer Meriwether exchanged gunfire.

Regrettably, Todd’s funeral at Jefferson Barracks National Cemetery was not the first and would not be the last law enforcement officer funeral. During my 21-year career in St. Louis, we lost an additional 10 officers: Five to gunfire, three in vehicle pursuits, one by a heart attack and one in a vehicle collision.

National Police Week was established in 1962, and former president John F. Kennedy signed a proclamation that designated May 15 as Peace Officers Memorial Day.

Next issue: May 18

Ads due: May 12

National Police Week honors those who made the ultimate sacrifice in the line of duty; provides peer support and support to the families of those fallen. At home in Washington state, we have lost over 300 law enforcement officers in the line of duty. On September 4, 1978, in Blaine, we lost assistant chief of police Larry Dean Duronso and reserve officer Douglas Orville Krenz to an aircraft accident while searching for the body of a murder victim. There are two memorial plaques inside our police lobby to remind us of their sacrifice.

As you go about your week, please take a moment to remember those guardians that have given their lives for the safety of our communities.

Donnell “Tank” Tanksley Blaine police chief Blaine

The Editor:

Thank you to the Washington state legislature for the military-grade weapon ban. Our communities, neighborhoods, schools, kids and stores will be safer.

According to the New England Journal of Medicine, youth deaths by weapon are the number one cause of death

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.

for American youth. The use of military-grade weapons rendered the students at Robb Elementary School in Uvalde, Texas only recognizable by their clothing.

Soldiers know that these weapons are used to provide extensive damage, not just a wound. They are not practical for hunting because they render a carcass inedible. The only use for a military-grade weapon is intimidation, slaughter and warfare. Many veterans suffer from PTSD even seeing or hearing these weapons fired. Many witnesses and bystanders to recent slaughters also suffer from trauma.

Keep the weapons you have locked away please, and thank goodness we will not see any more military-grade weapons for sale in stores in our state.

Donna Starr Blaine

(See Letters, next page)

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

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

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 Blaine High School jazz band and chorus along with the Bellingham Dixieland All Stars put on a “Cinco de Jazz” performance with swing dancing at the Blaine Senior Center on May 5. Pacific Arts Association, which organizes the Blaine Harbor Music Festival, sponsored the event.

Photo by Chuck Kinzer / CKimageart.com

Letters ...

From previous page

The Editor:

The Blaine Food Bank has a big day coming up this weekend. Yes, of course; Mother’s Day is this weekend, we all know that. But, the Saturday before Mother’s Day is also a big day for food banks across the country.

Saturday, May 13, is the annual Postal Carriers’ 2023 Annual “Stamp Out Hunger” Food Drive. It is the largest food drive in the U.S., historically held the second Saturday in May, but due to Covid-19 it has been canceled the last three years. Every food bank in the country depends on it, and is so grateful that it has returned.

Please put your donation of nonperishable, in-date food in a bag by your mailbox or mail slot, before your mail arrives on Saturday. Your postal carrier will pick up the donation, and food bank volunteers will pick the donations up at the post office.

This is the largest one-day food drive in the U.S., and is vital to the Blaine Food Bank, especially now with severe slashes to government food and funding offered to food banks, as well as skyrocketing requests for help from our community amid raging inflation.

Wishing you all a very happy Mother’s Day, and thank you for caring.

Sally Church

Food bank operations manager

Blaine

The Editor:

I slid up the plastic flap holding back the medium breakfast blend coffee beans. The other hand was preoccupied with holding the paper bag under the spout. The plastic flap picked that moment to depart the scene along with an eager flood of escapee beans. It took me about one and a half cups of beans to assess the problem and take action. Ten seconds later I realized I had a more interesting problem. I looked for help in the aisle marked “Coffee Tinned Fruit Bakery Supplies Soft Drinks.” Not a soul coming

Audit ...

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pen in the future, city manager Michael Harmon said. City staff will conduct detailed reviews of itemized credit card receipts and not rush through approvals.

“This is an isolated incident and it’s not indicative of city of Blaine employees,” Harmon said. “We have good, honest people working for the city and when we do find out of these types of allegations, we take them very seriously. We want to be good stewards of tax dollars and we’re not going to tolerate this type of behavior.”

Harmon said he directed Blaine police chief Donnell Tanksley to look at what would be the next steps to pursue criminal charges.

The Blaine Police Department was directed to consult with the Whatcom County Prosecutor’s Office on questions such as whether an outside police department should investigate the case or if the prosecutor’s office would file charges solely based on the audit.

or going. The next thought was whether I could somehow remedy the problem by fixing the flap. But the plastic critter was on the floor below the bottom shelf in amongst the cup and a half of beans that spread like errant jelly beans across the floor. I was able to lean over and stretch out my right arm and just touch the flap. I coaxed it into my fingers and placed it over the opening. Ahhah! There was a screw missing.

Which of those beans was the actual screw? Scouring the floor, it took me a while to realize there was no screw. In the coffee bag? That would have taken two hands.

I looked around. People were crossing my line of vision beyond the aisle heading somewhere else. If I had seen a staff person, I was going to yell for help. One young lady walking past almost made eye contact but must have decided that a male senior looking desperate should be avoided. I looked back at the bin with my hand holding the flap in place.

How long would I be here? The idea occurred to me to just walk away. But even I knew this was a bad idea. The visual was horrific and my conscience would not approve.

I was just realizing I had left my phone in the car when the store manager appeared in the aisle, probably looking for the canned artichokes. Five minutes later I was checking out with my few purchases and he was fixing the problem. It consisted of sticky tape holding the flap in place over the hole and an “Out of Order” sign. Coffee anyone?

Graham Hunter Blaine

The Editor:

For years Blaine school district has received accolades from locals, as well as state and national school organizations. Teachers sought employment here; locals supported all school levies.

We are now on a path destined to change all that. Due to an apparent mismanagement of funds, a proposal of drastic across-theboard (except management) employee cuts was presented to the school board and was passed in a

Ziemianek said in an email to The Northern Light that he had no comment.

In response to the allegations, Ziemianek previously said that he began purchasing items to make his home more accessible while his wife was sick. He said he either accidentally selected the city card or PayPal had the city card assigned as his last pre-

four pro and one abstained vote. Other schools have been known to hold discussions with teacher groups or send input questionnaires to the community. Such input was not sought here, though proposed staffing reductions will detrimentally impact the education of our children.

We need greater clarity of budgets versus funds spent. We need a school board that understands that they have a duty to work with the superintendent, but their responsibility is to the children and citizens of Blaine school district. Many of us concerned Blainites have joined together as Blaine Cares for Kids. We are seeking answers to our concerns and solutions to the problems. If you feel the same, and would like to join us, find us on Facebook at Blaine Cares for Kids or call Amee Nelson at 360/319-0269.

Sue St. Clair Birch Bay

The Editor: The past two Friday evenings have brought my wife and me two of the most uplifting events that we have recently enjoyed in Blaine. The performance of “Into the Woods” was a testament to the talent and dedication of the students and their teachers. The polish and professionalism of this production reflected the teamwork that the cast, the crew and the faculty members shared with one another.

The “Cinco de Jazz” concert/ party last Friday was a joyful, nonstop blend of young school musicians, their teachers and families, and community members, for an evening of fun, dancing and music. Adults and kids joined together simply to celebrate.

I spent 35 years as an educator. During the past 20 years, I have served several local organizations dedicated to the lives of Blaine’s young people. The play and the party both showcased the obvious respect and admiration for one another that that the students and their teachers share. Blaine has managed to successfully master that admirable fusion of students and their teachers.

ferred purchase.

Ziemianek, who had been employed as director since December 2020, previously said his decision to resign was because his wife needed aortic bypass surgery. Whatcom County prosecutor Eric Richey said in an email that the case hasn’t been referred to the Whatcom County Prosecutor’s Office.

Thus, it is sad to learn that the school district is contemplating releasing several faculty members in a budget-cutting move. This decision will obviously have a huge impact on the teachers who are being let go. More importantly, every student in our district will be touched in some way by the loss of priceless role models and mentors. Class sizes will grow, some courses and activities will be curtailed or dropped. Remaining teachers will be pushed even harder to serve the growing number of kids in the classes for which they are responsible.

Teacher reductions are always the first suggested solution in budget situations, and that is lamentable. Teaching is a calling and its participants do not expect to get rich. Teachers are also team players. I would like to ask the district administration and the school board to retain all teachers and to impose the same reasonable percentage reduction on the salaries of all employees of the school district. Our remarkable team will remain intact, and the students will be the winners. Let’s all pull together!

Bryan Johnson Blaine

Monday, May 22 10:00am – Hearing Examiner: Public Hearing for a Variance and Reasonable Use Exception for the Runge Ave Residence 4:00pm – Study Session: Police and Court BMC Update 6:00pm – City Council Meeting

THE CITY OF BLAINE IS CURRENTLY SEEKING MEMBERS FOR THE FOLLOWING COMMISSION, BOARD, AND COMMITTEE:

· Park and Cemetery Board Regularly meets at 9:00 AM on the second Thursday of every month for about an hour and a half

Three positions to fill a full term ending December 31, 2026

· Public Works Advisory Committee Regularly meets at 10:30 AM on the second Thursday of every month for about an hour

Two positions to fill a full term ending December 31, 2024

If you are interested in serving on a board or commission, applications and descriptions of duties are available in City Clerk’s Office at Blaine City Hall, 435 Martin St., Suite 3000, or online at www.cityofblaine.com. The City will continue to accept applications until vacancies are filled.

NWFR donation comes full circle

A donation from North Whatcom Fire and Rescue (NWFR) to a town in Mexico came full circle recently after a donated ambulance was used to transport the father of one of the firefighters who helped organize the contribution.

In spring 2020, NWFR donated a surplus ambulance, two fire engines and equipment to Union de Tula, Mexico, a town in the state of Jalisco. The donations were made through Bomberos Unidos, which translates to ‘Firefighters United,’ a nonprofit in Washington state that donates equipment that U.S. regulations consider unusable to firefighters in Mexico.

Moi Castellon, Bomberos Unidos founder and a fire captain in Lynwood, knew his parents’ hometown of Union de Tula, Mexico

needed the equipment at the time NWFR was looking to donate it.

The city of Union de Tula previously honored NWFR and Bomberos Unidos for the donation with a ribbon-cutting ceremony and has since provided services to many people, including a woman who delivered a child in the ambulance.

However, the donations gained a new meaning for Castellon in midApril, when his father, who was visiting the town, was transported by the ambulance after suffering from a respiratory emergency.

“It was cool to see that ambulance came to his rescue,” Castellon said. “It was one of those good feelings that good deeds do come back around.”

NWFR commissioner John Crawford knew Castellon from when Castellon started his fire-

fighting career at Whatcom County Fire District 8 in north Bellingham and suggested NWFR donate the old equipment to Bomberos Unidos. Crawford said he was impressed by how well Union de Tula refurbished a truck that otherwise would have gone to the junkyard.

“We had that ambulance collecting dust,” Crawford said. “They’re excellent recyclers of everything and anything.”

Castellon said his father is doing much better and returned home to San Diego.

“If anyone in the community is aware of old fire equipment, don’t hesitate to reach out,” Castellon said. “We’ve seen firsthand that it goes a long way.”

For more information and to contact Bomberos Unidos, visit Facebook.com/BomberosUnited.

s Bomberos Unidos founder Moi Castellon, l., and North Whatcom Fire and Rescue (NWFR) commissioner John Crawford facilitated NWFR’s donation of an ambulance, two fire engines and related equipment to Union de Tula, Mexico in 2020. Courtesy photo

Sports roundup: Soccer falls in district championship, baseball knocked out

Baseball

Blaine boys baseball season ended May 6 after the team lost twice in the double-elimination 1A district 1/2 tournament.

The Borderites took on the King’s Knights at Joe Martin Stadium in Bellingham in the first round of the playoffs. After a 6-4 loss, the team dropped down to the consolation bracket where it faced the Lynden Christian Lyncs – a team Blaine beat 7-4 in the regular season. This time a late push from the Lyncs would see the Blaine boys’ season cut short, with the game finishing 5-3.

Blaine finished its season with a 13-8 overall record and 10-5 in conference.

Boys soccer

The Borderites lost 4-2 to the Meridian Trojans in the 1A district 1 championship May 9 at the Blaine High School stadium.

Two goals in two minutes from Trojan midfielder Roberto Guzman early into the second half forced Blaine players to chase the game. With the score at 3-1, Leonardo Blanco got a goal back for the Borderites with a lofted left-foot shot from outside the box that hit off the crossbar and in. Blaine continued to chase a leveler but conceded an own goal from an attempted clearance on a cross to the back post that was difficult to deal with.

Blaine head coach Gio Quesada said he saw two different games in one.

“The first half the team dominated,” Quesada said. “The kids really applied everything into the game. But in the second half, little details made the difference. In the championship games, the little things make the difference.”

Blaine opened up the scoring in the first half, when a corner kick was flicked past the Meridian goalkeeper and senior forward Joel Barrientos-Estrada stuffed the loose ball into the goal. The Borderites took the 1-0 lead into halftime after creating the majority of the chances in the first half.

The momentum shifted in the second half when a misplaced tackle gave Meridian a penalty kick. Senior goalkeeper Kael Evinger guessed right but the shot was just out of reach. Fifteen minutes later Guzman snuck a freekick past Evinger and into the bottom right corner of the net. Moments later he hit a rocket from outside the penalty box that went in off the crossbar.

Coming into playoffs, Blaine and Meridian were the first and second seed in the district and each had beat the other during the regular season.

With the loss, Blaine will play the Lynden Christian Lyncs at 7 p.m. Thursday, May 11 at the Blaine High School stadium.

Quesada said he expects to see even more desire from his team against the Lyncs.

“Don’t put your head down,” Quesada said he would tell his team. “There’s one more final.”

Girls softball

The Lady Borderites came home from Montesano with two games and a loss after playing Elma, Montesano and Bellevue Christian high schools May 5 and 6. The team then beat the Squalicum Storm 1-0 on the road May 9.

Blaine will finish its regular season playing the Lakewood Cougars at 4 p.m. Thursday, May 11 at Pipeline Fields in Blaine.

Blaine is 17-2 overall and 13-1 in conference.

Track and field

Athletes on the Blaine track and field team will compete this week at the 1A district meet at Lynden

Christian High School. Day 1 was May 10. Day 2 is Friday, May 12, starting at 4 p.m. Blaine athletes will compete to qualify for the 1A bi-district meet next week, which is also at Lynden Christian High School on Thursday, May 18 and Saturday, May 20.

s Senior Axel Puls last double for Blaine baseball, after losing twice in the double-elimination 1A district 1/2 bracket May 6.

Photo by Robb Vezzetti

s Joel Barrientos-Estrada header goes wide of the goal in Blaine’s 4-2 loss to Meridian May 9.

Photo by Ian Haupt

s Kael Evinger attempts to save Meridian’s second half penalty that tied the game at 1-1.

Photo by Ian Haupt

Active S eniors

How the body changes with age

Aging is an inevitable component of life. Young children often cannot wait until they get older because of the freedoms that seemingly come with being more mature. On the flip side, adults often wish they were young again. Time waits for no person, and with aging comes many changes, many of which manifest physically.

The following are some components of healthy aging that go beyond graying hair and wrinkling skin.

Bones, joints and muscles

According to the Mayo Clinic, with age bones may become thinner and more fragile. Joints will lose their flexibility, while muscles lose mass and strength, endurance and flexibility. These changes may be accompanied by a loss of stability that can result in balance issues or falls. It’s common for the body frame to shrink, and a person may lose a few inches in height.

A doctor may suggest a bone-density test or supplemen-

tation with calcium and vitamin

D to keep bones as strong as possible. Physical activity that includes strength training can help keep muscles strong and flexible.

Body fat

As muscle mass diminishes, body fat can increase. The Merck Manual indicates that, by age 75, the percentage of body fat typically doubles compared with what it was during young adulthood. The distribution of fat also changes, which can adjust the shape of the torso.

Heart

Organs in the body also age, and cells begin to die off, making those organs work less efficiently. The heart is one such organ that changes with age. It pumps more than 2.5 million beats during one’s lifetime. As a person gets older, blood vessels lose their elasticity, and the heart has to work harder to circulate blood throughout the body. Exercise can help keep the heart as strong as possible.

Urinary tract and kidneys

The kidneys become smaller as a person ages, which means they may not be able to filter urine as effectively. Urinary incontinence may occur due to hormonal changes or because of an enlarged prostate. Furthermore, the bladder may become less elastic, leading to an urge to urinate more frequently.

Memory and thinking

Older adults experience changes to the brain as they age. Minor effects on memory or thinking skills are common and not usually cause for worry. Staying mentally active by reading, playing word games and engaging in hobbies can help. Following a routine and making lists (as multi-tasking may become challenging) are some additional ways to address memory issues.

These are just some of the changes that can come with aging. Generally speaking, exercising, using the brain and adhering to a balanced, healthy diet can help keep the body functioning well into one’s golden years.

Some fun and effective outdoor exercises for seniors

The benefits of spending time in the great outdoors are significant. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, spending time outdoors

may improve mental health and help to reduce stress, and the vitamin D the body absorbs while outside can have a positive effect on blood cells and the im -

New

Hi, I’m Chuck!

Hi, my name is Chuck Rudolph. I moved to Bellingham from San Diego, CA two years ago to be close to my daughter and her family. I have four children, 11 grandchildren and soon to be 5 great grandchildren.

After College I was drafted into the U.S. Army for two years. I then started my career as a U.S. History teacher at the Catholic High School level and realized I needed to make more money. At that time, a teacher’s weekly salary was $90. I searched for another career and after taking many tests through the county for police, fire and probation I was offered a job with the San Diego probation department. I spent 30 years in that department before retiring. I worked in adult casework, juvenile investigations and ran the juvenile maximum-security unit for 14 years. It was rewarding work and I had an amazing team of professionals to work with. I lived in San Diego 62 years before moving here and decided that I didn’t want to cook, do housekeeping or maintenance. My daughter and I searched for a place where I had the freedom to enjoy my time as I wanted. The obvious answer for me was Solstice Senior Living in Bellingham.

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mune system.

Seniors can benefit from the great outdoors as much as anyone. Vitamin D helps the body absorb calcium, which strengthens bones. That’s especially beneficial for seniors, as the National Council on Aging notes that bone density often decreases after age 50, which can increase the risk of fractures. That’s especially so in women, as a 2021 report from Amgen, Inc., indicated women can lose up to 20 percent of their bone density within five to seven years of menopause.

Spending time in the great outdoors also provides a social benefit, encouraging individuals from all walks of life, including seniors, to get out of their homes and

spend time with other people.

With so much to gain from spending time outside, seniors can consider these three outdoor exercises as they seek to maintain or improve their overall health.

1. Walking: Walking is free and effective. In fact, WebMD notes that a brisk 30-minute walk can improve blood flow, contribute to a stronger heart, strengthen bones and even help people sleep better at night. In addition, a 2022 study published in the journal JAMA Neurology found that people between the ages of 40 and 79 who walked about 9,800 steps per day were 51 percent less likely to develop dementia than people who didn’t walk much at all.

2. Cycling: Riding a bike is both fun and a great form of outdoor exercise. Though many studies regarding the health effects of cycling have looked at the value of riding a bike to work, a scenario that does not apply to retirees, the results of such studies still offer insight into just how valuable it can be to ride a bike. For example, a 2020 study published in The Lancet found that people who cycled to work were 24 percent less likely to die of heart disease and 11 percent less likely to develop cancer. Seniors, whether they are still working or retired, can incorporate cycling into

(See Exercise, next page)

Highlights of the latest exercise guidelines

Since 2008, the Physical Activity Guidelines have been a vital resource for health professionals and policy makers, serving as a foundation for physical activity and education programs. These guidelines, established and periodically adjusted by the federal Office of Disease Prevention (ODPHP) and Health Promotion, include recommendations for individuals ages three and over. A full breakdown of the latest guidelines can be found at Health.gov, but the following are some highlights pertaining to various groups.

• Preschool-aged children: The ODPHP notes that children between the ages of three and five should be physically active throughout the day to enhance their growth and development.

(See Exercise, previous page)

their daily routines and enjoy all the fun and health benefits that riding a bike provides.

3. Hiking: Hiking is more strenuous than walking, particularly when individuals choose to traverse steep and/or rocky terrain. WebMD notes that hiking after age 60 can help people reduce their risk of falls and fractures; lower their risk for a host of ailments, including coronary heart disease, colon cancer and diabetes; reduce blood pressure, even in adults who have already been diagnosed with hypertension; and maintain healthy bones and joints. Hiking is not a onesize-fits-all activity, so seniors, especially those who would characterize themselves as novice hikers, are urged to speak with their physicians prior to hiking trails that are not flat.

Seniors can consider these three fun activities and others as they answer the call of the great outdoors. Walking, cycling and hiking offer a great reason to get out of the house and reap the health-related benefits of spending time outside.

Caregivers are urged to encourage active play that includes activities of various types.

• Children and adolescents: Children between the ages of six and 17 should engage in 60 minutes or more per day of moderate-to-vigorous aerobic physical activity. Kids in this age group also should engage in vigorous-intensity physical activity at least three days per week. Regimens also should include muscle-strengthening activities and bone-strengthening activities at least three days per week.

• Adults: The ODPHP urges adults to sit less and move more. The most substantial health benefits can be gained by engaging in at least 150 minutes to 300 minutes a week of moderate-inten-

sity or between 75 minutes and 150 minutes of vigorous-intensity aerobic activity each week. Any equivalent combination of the two can suffice as well. Muscle-strengthening activities also should be part of adults’ fitness regimens. These activities should help to strengthen all the major muscle groups, and adults should aspire to engage in them at least two days per week.

• Older adults: Older adults who can still follow the guidelines designed for younger adults can continue to do so. But the ODPHP recommends that older adults also incorporate multicomponent physical activity in their workout regimens. This can include balance training to complement aerobic and mus-

cle-strengthening activities. Older adults also are urged to discuss with their physicians how any chronic conditions they may have can affect their ability to

safely engage in physical activity. The Physical Activity Guidelines can serve as a useful resource for people of all ages as they look to live a healthy lifestyle.

39th annual Blessing of the Fleet honors fishers who have died at sea

Photos by Grace McCarthy

s Richard Sturgill, Plover captain and member of the Seafarers’ Memorial Committee, carries the Blessing of the Fleet wreath to the “Sound Star” for placement in the sea.

s Dozens of community members gathered in the Blaine Harbor Boating Center on May 7 to remember fishers who have died and pray for those embarking on the upcoming season.

s Blaine resident and former commercial fisherman Charlie Hawkins rang the bell after each name was read during the ceremony.

s People place flowers on the wreath in honor of fishermen who have died. The names of over 40 fishers were read during the ceremony.

s Port of Bellingham commissioner Bobby Briscoe places a flower on the wreath for Norm Walsh, a longtime Blaine commercial fisherman who died in 2022.

s Blaine High School band members play music during the Blessing of the Fleet ceremony.

s A U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary member receives the wreath on the “Sound Star.”

s State representative Alicia Rule (D-Blaine) reads a Blessing of the Fleet resolution from the state senate.

s Gary Dunster, of the Seafarers’ Memorial Committee.

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NOTICE TO CREDITORS IN THE SUPERIOR COURT OF THE STATE OF WASHINGTON IN AND FOR THE COUNTY OF WHATCOM In re the Estate of: JEAN ANN BEAMER, Deceased. Probate No. 23-4-00373-37.

NOTICE TO CREDITORS. Assigned Judge: David E. Freeman.

The Personal Representative named below has been appointed as personal representative of this estate. Any person having a claim against the decedent must, before the time the claim would be barred by any otherwise applicable statute of limitations, present the claim in the manner as provided in RCW 11.40.070 by serving on or mailing to the co-personal representatives or the co-personal representatives’ attorney at the address stated below a copy of the claim and filing the original of the claim with the Clerk of this Court. The claim must be presented within the later of: (1) Thirty days after the co-personal representatives served or mailed the notice to the creditor as provided under RCW 11.40.020(1)(c); or (2) four months after the date of first publication of the notice (twenty-four (24) months if notice is not published). If the claim is not presented within this time frame, the claim is forever barred, except as otherwise provided in RCW 11.40.051 and 11.40.060. This bar is effective as to claims against both the decedent’s probate and nonprobate assets.

Date of filing copy of Notice to Creditors: April 14, 2023.

Date of first publication: May 4, 2023

Personal Representative: ERIC M. BEAMER Attorney for the Estate: KEITH A. BODE, WSBA #7791 314 Fifth Street, P.O. Box 688, Lynden, WA 98264-0688. Tel. (360) 354-5021

IN THE SUPERIOR COURT OF THE STATE OF WASHINGTON IN AND FOR WHATCOM COUNTY In re the Estate of: THOMAS HAMILTON EDWARD (AKA TOM HAMILTON EDWARD), Deceased. No. 23-4-00476-37. NOTICE TO CREDITORS.

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: May 8, 2023 with Clerk of Court:

Date of First Publication: May 11, 2023

Name of Administrator: SHAWN EDWARD

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: May 8, 2023

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

Attorney for Administrator SHAWN EDWARD

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PUBLIC SERVICE ANNOUNCEMENT

Chapter 18.27.100 of the Revised Code of Washington requires that all advertisements for construction services include the contractor’s registration number in the advertisement. To verify a contractor’s license, call the Dept. of Labor and Industry’s contractors registration at 1-800-647-0982.

IN THE SUPERIOR COURT OF THE STATE OF WASHINGTON IN AND FOR WHATCOM COUNTY In re the Estate of: THOMAS EDWARD BUDGE, Deceased.

No. 23-4-00463-37. NOTICE TO CREDITORS. 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: May 5, 2023 with Clerk of Court:

Date of First Publication: May 11, 2023

Name of Administrator: LAKEN BUDGE

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: May 5, 2023

AVERY ELDER LAW, P.S. STEVEN D. AVERY, WSBA #35262 Attorney for Administrator LAKEN BUDGE www.averyelderlaw.com

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Judge Robert E. Olson

LESLIE-ANNE MARGARET HOLMES has been appointed as Personal Representative/Administrator of the above estate. Any person having a claim against the Deceased 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 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 have commenced. The claim must be presented within the later of: (1) thirty days after the Administrator 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:

April 14, 2023

DATE OF FIRST PUBLICATION:

April 27, 2023

PERSONAL REPRESENATIVE/ADMINIS-

TRATOR: Leslie-Anne Margaret Holmes

ATTORNEY FOR PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE/ ADMINISTRATOR:

Mark W. Stowe, WSBA#16655 ADDRESS FOR MAILING OR SERVICE: Stowe Law PLLC 276 Boundary Bay Road, P.O. Box 129 Point Roberts, WA 98281 Phone: (360) 945-0337

Email:stowelawpllc@outlook.com

STOWE LAW PLLC: Mark W. Stowe, WSBA# 16655

Attorney for Administrator Leslie-Anne Margaret Holmes

Cascadia offers online festival May 11-21

Cascadia International Women’s Film Festival took over Bellingham May 4-7 with a wide array of screenings, panel discussions, script studio and festival celebrations where attendees could mingle with featured directors.

Two-time Oscar-winning documentary film director Barbara Kopple was the honored guest at this year’s festival, seen here with Louise Mugar, co-publisher of The Northern Light, one of the festival’s sponsors. Kopple produced and directed “Harlan County, USA” and “American Dream,” both winners of the Academy Award for Best Documentary Feature. A special screening was held for her most recent film, “Gumbo Coalition.” Overall, the festival featured 35 films by women from 15 countries, with many of the directors in attendance. For those who missed the in-person experience, you can still purchase tickets for the online festival, May 11-21 at cascadiafilmfest.org.

Dean Prather - Attorney at Law

Estate Planning Wills, Probate, and Transfer on Death Deeds

Loren Dale Gienger

February 6, 1951 – April 28, 2023

Loren Dale Gienger was a kind and faithful man of God. He passed away into the arms of his Lord and Savior at the age of 72 on April 28, 2023, after a short battle with lung cancer. He was surrounded by his beloved wife and daughters at home in Blaine. Just as he dealt with all experiences in life, Loren managed his illness with strength, grace and faith.

Loren was born on Feb 6, 1951, in Bellingham, to Albert and Selma Gienger. He was welcomed and adored by his older siblings, Patty and Clayton. He grew up on the family farm in Blaine where he rode horses and helped with the hay bales. He came to know his Lord and Savior as a teenager. Loren graduated from Blaine High School in 1969 where he enjoyed playing basketball and golf on the high school teams. After school Loren worked at the Cannery at Larson Bay Alaska on Kodiak Island. He was then drafted and served two years conscientious objector in the Salvation Army in Seattle. Loren then worked at Uniflite Boat Manufacturing in Fairhaven before settling into hard work at Intalco as a material handler for the next 30 years. In 2004, he moved on to the Blaine School District where he was a custodian for 12 years. Here he enjoyed connecting with kids and was well known as the Jolly Rancher dude as he often passed out candy. Loren retired in 2016 and dedicated a lot of his spare time to his beloved golf game.

Local governments in Washington will soon be able to use revenue from new developments to build trails and pathways for bicyclists, pedestrians and other nonmotorized forms of transportation after Senate Bill 5452 was signed into law.

The bill, which state senator Sharon Shewmake (D-Bellingham) co-sponsored, allows local governments to use impact fee revenue to fund the construction of bicycle and pedestrian pathways. It goes into effect July 23.

Impact fees are local government-assessed charges on developers that are used to pay for the cost of providing public facilities –like roads, schools and parks – for the new development. Currently, impact fees can only be used to fund bicycle or pedestrian infrastructure that’s part of a street or road. This bill allows local governments to build and maintain infrastructure for nonmotorized vehicles with that money.

Shewmake said in a statement that she was excited to see what local governments choose to build now with the passing of the bill.

“Places for people to walk and bike are such an important part of a livable and vibrant community,” Shewmake said in the statement. “This bill will give cities and towns a new option for how they can fund this sort of good infrastructure for our growing communities. We can build better ways to get to work or school, run errands and safely get some exercise, without raising taxes or fees.”

The bill says such transportation and commuting options allows local governments to provide numerous benefits, including reducing greenhouse gas emissions and enhancing connection between communities and job centers.

To view the final bill, go to bit. ly/3HXw1EF.

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Loren met Adele in 1971 on a blind date to the district basketball game. They fell madly in love, dated for two years and were married on August 10, 1973. They lived in Ferndale in their family home and then moved to Blaine in 1989 and built their forever home.

He is survived by wife Adele (Means); daughters, Lori (Branden) Millsap, Becky (Jon) Landis and Marcy (Luke) Steere; grandchildren, Richard (Kendall) Landis, Nayomi (Drew) Vander Meulen, Austin and Owen Millsap, Jaxon and Everly Steere, Kaleb and Audrey Landis; great-grandchildren Emrie Landis and Arlo Vander Meulen; sister Patty Berg; and many loving nieces, nephews and relatives. He was preceded in death by his parents, Al and Selma Gienger, older brother Clayton Gienger and brother-in-law Paul Berg.

Loren adored his wife, daughters, grandchildren, family, and friends. He was an avid golfer, taking care of their yard, playing with the grandkids, going to the Blaine basketball games.

There will be a Celebration of Life on May 19, 2023, at 2 p.m. at Birch Bay Bible Community Church. A public graveside service at 10 a.m. at Greenacres in Ferndale.

If desired, memorial contributions may be made to: House of Faith, 321 Montecito Dr. San Angelo, TX 76903.

William Alvin Anderson

November 11, 1929 – April 21, 2023

William (Bill) Alvin Anderson passed away peacefully at the age of 93. He was born in Point Roberts to Jules and Alice (Lamphier) Anderson.

SEPTEMBER:

580 C St., Blaine 360-332-8610

He is survived by his wife of 69 years, Mary (Marsh) Anderson; their four children William Anderson, Barbara (Bob) Anderson, Brian Anderson, and Alfred “Buddy” (Amy) Anderson; his three grandchildren Lisa (Mark) Bowman, Brent (Taylor) Anderson, and Jason (Tina) Kindlund; and five great grandchildren. Bill worked at The Port of Bellingham as the Assistant Director of Finance for many years until he retired in 1985. He was preceded in death by his parents and three brothers: Melvin Anderson “Bob”, Alfred “Bud” Anderson, and Bert Anderson, who were commercial fishermen in Blaine.

Photo by Pat Grubb

New law allows governments to invest in trails, pathways

sheriff’s repOrts

Apr. 28, 8:03 p.m.: Noise on Masterson Road.

Apr. 28, 9:41 p.m.: Juvenile problem on Birch Bay Drive.

Apr. 28, 9:52 p.m.: Suspicious person on West Golf Course Road.

Apr. 28, 11:37 p.m.: Domestic order violation on Helweg Road.

Apr. 29, 6:25 a.m.: Burglary on Birch Bay Drive.

Apr. 29, 11:59 a.m.: Domestic physical on Birch Bay-Lynden Road.

Apr. 29, 2:55 p.m.: Burglary on Birch Terrace Drive, Custer.

Apr. 29, 4:44 p.m.: Mental health issue on Surf Place.

Apr. 30, 9:36 a.m.: Vandalism on Harborview Road.

Apr. 30, 11:07 a.m.: Civil problem on Birch Bay-Lynden Road, Custer.

Apr. 30, 5 p.m.: Trespass on California Trail.

Apr. 30, 9:36 p.m.: Suicidal subject on Cedar Lane.

May 1, 7:02 a.m.: Traffic hazard on Portal Way, Custer.

May 1, 9:15 a.m.: Hit and run on Harborview Drive.

May 1, 9:25 a.m.: Trespass on Birch Bay Drive.

May 1, 4:09 p.m.: Fraud on Clamdigger Drive.

ACROSS

May 1, 5:45 p.m.: Runaway on Sole Drive.

May 1, 10:38 p.m.: Suicidal subject on Birch Bay Drive.

May 2, 7:23 a.m.: Fraud on Clamdigger Drive.

May 2, 4:52 p.m.: Neighborhood dispute on Harborview Road.

May 2, 9:45 p.m.: Attempted suicide on Cedar Lane.

May 3, 2:46 a.m.: Trespass on Mayfair Place.

pOLiCe repOrts

Apr. 28, 10:57 a.m.: Trespass on Peace Portal Drive.

Apr. 28, 3:34 p.m.: Missing child on 8th Street.

Apr. 28, 4:31 p.m.: Vandalism on 8th Street.

Apr. 29, 1:52 p.m.: Domestic physical on H Street.

Apr. 29, 4:07 p.m.: Overdose on H Street.

Apr. 29, 8:41 p.m.: Traffic on Peace Portal Drive.

Apr. 30, 4:12 a.m.: Disorderly conduct on Martin Street.

Apr. 30, 2:12 p.m.: Domestic verbal on 5th Street.

Apr. 30, 5:55 p.m.: Neighborhood dispute on 15th Street.

Apr. 30, 6:31 p.m.: Assist agency on Peace Portal Drive.

Apr. 30, 7:02 p.m.: Mental health issue on Harrison Avenue.

Apr. 30, 9:49 p.m.: Runaway on Adelia Street.

May 1, 12:08 a.m.: Drugs on E

CrOssWOrd

46. Ancient Dead Sea region 49. Of I

vestment

sung to a

design

manufacturer

8. Shaking of the earth

9. Strong winds

10. For each one

11. A bog

12. The creation of beautiful or significant things

13. Affirmative

19. Pie _ __ mode

21. Nonclerical

24. Inspirational football player Hamlin

25. Learning environment

26. Khoikhoi peoples

27. Bring out or develop

31. Shows up 32. Theatrical device 34. Loads 35. Popular Hollywood alien

Coming up

Double Art Exhibition: Tuesdays–Saturdays, 11 a.m.–4 p.m., through July 15, Gallery Syre, 465 West Stuart Road, Bellingham. Featuring a new drawing exhibition by local artist David Syre and a photography exhibition by Andy Bronson and Hailey Hoffman. Info: gallerysyre.com.

Mother’s Day Market: Saturday, May 13, noon–5 p.m., Home Farm U-Pick & Events, 8020 Kickerville Road. Handmade and local goods, flowers, baked goods; coffee and mini donuts. Info: homefarm.farm.

Street.

May 1, 8:37 a.m.: Theft on Georgia Street.

May 1, 12:05 p.m.: Domestic order on Clyde Street.

May 1, 1:40 p.m.: Vandalism on H Street.

May 3, 9:26 a.m.: Juvenile problem on H Street.

May 3, 3:42 p.m.: Vandalism on D Street.

May 3, 8:18 p.m.: Vandalism on 3rd Street.

May 3, 9:54 p.m.: Parking problem on Runge Avenue.

May 3, 10:49 p.m.: Subject with a weapon on H Street.

May 4, 8:14 a.m.: Harassment on D Street.

May 4, 3:06 p.m.: Hit and run on Semiahmoo Parkway.

May 4, 3:45 p.m.: Vandalism on G Street.

Report by Blaine Police Department

56. Ordain

57. Breed of small cattle

59. Very small period of time (abbr.)

60. Revolutions per minute

61. They __

62. Longtime ESPN anchor Bob 63. A place to stay

ANSWERS: THENORTHERNLIGHT.COM

tides

Haynie Grange Breakfast: Saturday and Sunday, May 13 and 14, 8 a.m.–noon, Haynie Grange, 3344 Haynie Road, Custer. Pancakes, French toast, biscuits and gravy, eggs, ham, coffee, tea, milk and orange juice. Cost: $8.

Mother Earth Dances Performance: Saturday, May 13, 7 p.m. and Sunday, May 14, 2 p.m., Blaine Performing Arts Center. Students from Day-toDay Dance perform. Tickets $15, under 2 free, at the door or online. Info: daytodaydance.com.

Oysterfest: Saturday, May 20, noon–8 p.m., Downtown Blaine. Street fair, live music, Semiahmoo Resort cooking demonstrations, beer garden, kid-friendly food court, oysters and seafood for purchase and more! Info: blainebythesea.com

Flea Market: Saturday, May 20, 10 a.m.–4 p.m., Free Church Unitarian, 1218 Harrison Avenue. Clothes, books, tools, kitchen wares, new and lightly used. Vendors: $20/table. Info:joyceck10@gmail.com.

Picnic in the Playground: Saturday, May 20, 11 a.m.–2 p.m., Blaine Marine Park, 200 Marine Drive. Free kids games and crafts. Hot dogs, shaved ice and refreshments for $1 cash or $1.25 card. Complimentary shuttle to downtown Blaine for the Oysterfest celebrations. Info: bbbparkandrec.org. Sponsored by Blaine-Birch Bay Park and Recreation District 2. BHS Baccalaureate 2023: Wednesday, May 31, 78 p.m., Birch Bay Bible Community Church, 4460 Bay Road. Local Blaine churches are joint to gather to honor BHS class of 2023. Graduates, families and friends are invited to a special celebration worship service.

Birch Bay Market: Saturdays and Sundays, 10 a.m.–4 p.m., plus Victoria Day, May 22, across from The C Shop, 4825 Alderson Road. Opening May 20. Farmers market, home decor and gifts. Info: BirchBayMarket@gmail.com.

Blaine High School Class of 1963 Reunion: Saturday and Sunday, August 5 and 6. Members of the Class of 1963 and surrounding classes are requested to reach out for details. 360/224-3631 or 360/366-5445.

Ongoing

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

The Bridge Food Bank: Fridays 2:30–4:30 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.

1. An involuntary and abnormal muscular contraction

2. Philly’s rail service

3. Leaves a place 4. No longer be a part in 5. Guitar players use them

6. Cease to exist

7. General’s assistant (abbr.)

36. Distinguishes 40. College dorm worker

41. Secondary or explanatory title 45. Resembling wings 47. One who delivers a speech

48. In the middle

52. Loop with a running knot

53. Airborne (abbr.)

54. Beloveds

Weather

Precipitation: During the period of May 1-7, 0.4 inches of precipitation were recorded. The 2023 yearto-date precipitation is 10.4 inches.

Temperature: High for the past week was 72°F on May 3 with a low of 46°F on May 7 as well. Average high was 61°F and average low was 52°F.

Courtesy Birch Bay Water & Sewer Dist.

Friends of Blaine Library: Meets third Wednesdays, 6:30 p.m., Blaine Library, 610 3rd Street. Find out the latest library news at this monthly FOBL Board of Directors meeting. All members and guests are welcome to attend. Info: blainelibraryfriends.org.

Alaska Packers Association Cannery Museum: Open Saturdays and Sundays, 1–5 p.m., 9261 Semiahmoo Parkway. Free, donations welcome. Birch Bay Book Club: Wednesday, May 17, 4 p.m., Birch Bay Vogt Library site, 7968 Birch Bay Drive. May title is Walking Across Egypt by Clyde Edgerton. Info: klia1@mac.com.

Blaine Book Club: Friday, May 19, 1 p.m., Blaine Library, 610 3rd Street. May title: The Bad Muslim Discount by Syed Masood. 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., Thursdays at noon, 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: 307/349-0450.

Blaine Arts Council: Meets second Thursday, 6:30 p.m., at Blaine Senior Center, 763 G Street. Meeting is open to the public. The council promotes, cultivates and supports the arts in order to enrich the lives of the community through creativity with a variety of cultural events, education and shows. 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.

Blaine Bouquets has new owner

Blaine Bouquets will have a new look and offerings in the coming months now that it is under new ownership.

Sarbie Bains said she has been working hard to cater to customers and learn the market since taking over the flower shop at the beginning of April. Bains said she thought the business would be a perfect fit with her experience doing hair and makeup in the beauty and bridal industry.

“It all ties in – whether it’s florals or hair and makeup,” Bains said. “It is all about the aesthetics of making the pictures look good and making everything come together as one.”

Bains plans on bringing in new vendors to the business’s gift shop, including jewelry, plants, plant holders and other goods.

Recreational

The shop will introduce peonies starting in time for Mother’s Day and soon have orchids in addition to the roses, daisies, lilies and other flowers it already offers. The store has started selling artisan chocolates and is looking to add more to the assortment.

Bains encourages people interested in the store’s services to visit the shop and see more of their offerings first-hand.

“It’s nice to have that in-person touch to show, ‘This is what we have. What did you have in mind?’” she said. “I want to provide top-notch customer service and make somebody feel special.”

Blaine Bouquets is located at 633 Peace Portal Drive. For shop hours, call the business at 360/332-6700.

“I love the aesthetics of how everything turns out. Flowers are so pretty and they make everyone

shellfish

harvesting closes in Whatcom County beaches

Washington State Department of Health (DOH) closed recreation shellfish harvesting on all Whatcom County beaches May 3 after unsafe levels of paralytic shellfish poison (PSP) were found in local waters.

Recreational shellfish harvesting last closed in north Whatcom County in October 2022, which closed recreational harvesting on all county beaches as south Whatcom County was already closed. It reopened a couple of weeks later. Last year, the recreational beaches were also closed from spring to mid-August.

Commercial shellfish in markets and restaurants, like Drayton Harbor Oyster Company, are safe to eat because they are tested, according to DOH.

Drayton Harbor Harmful Algal Bloom (HAB) Hunters founder Rick Beauregard told The Northern Light in an email that the monitoring group found Alexandrium, algae that produces toxins that cause PSP, in its samples from Birch Bay and Drayton Harbor on May 2. The HAB hunters notified

the state of their finding May 3 and recreational shellfish harvesting was closed shortly after.

This closure includes Point Roberts as well.

PSP is a naturally occurring marine biotoxin produced by some species of microscopic algae, according to DOH. Molluscan shellfish, which includes clams, mussels, oysters and scallops, eat the algae and can retain the toxin, but can cause severe illness and death in humans. Cooking or freezing shellfish does not destroy the PSP biotoxin. Symptoms occur within a few minutes to a couple of hours after ingestion and include numbness and tingling of lips and tongue. Tingling can spread to fingers and toes, and poisoned individuals can lose control of arms and legs followed by difficulty breathing.

DOH and the HAB hunters will continue to monitor shellfish biotoxin levels. DOH will notify the public when recreational shellfish harvesting is safe again in county waters through its website at bit.ly/3B8ycRW.

Payton Saunders graduated from Blaine High School in 2016 and received her bachelor’s degree from the University of Washington in 2020. This week she graduates from from The Texas Tech School of Law with a Juris Doctorate.

Congratulations Payton!

Much love from your family & friends.

B y G race M c c arthy

so happy,” Bains said. “Even if it’s a sad occasion, it brings a smile to somebody’s face.”

s Sarbie Bains became owner of Blaine Bouquets in April.

Photo by Grace McCarthy

Conservation district’s farmer speaker series kicks off May 11

A new Whatcom Conservation District (WCD) series will bring in speakers to present on a variety of farming topics once

a month from May through October. The series will kick off Thursday, May 11 with an event on native plant buffers.

The Farm Speaker Series is free and geared for anyone who wants to learn about farming, according to WCD. The meet-

ings will be held 6-7:30 p.m. during one Thursday evening each month at different locations in Whatcom County. Speakers will include professionals, local farmers and landowners. Refreshments will be provided.

The upcoming events include:

• May 11 – Stream bank protection with native plant buffers. The event will be held at the Nooksack Salmon Enhancement Association’s community room and garden, 3507 Baker-

view Road in Bellingham.

• June 8 – Disaster preparedness for livestock

• July 13 – Compost and conservation field day

• August 17 – Sheep flock health and pasture management

• September 14 – Farm funding opportunities

• October 5 – Winter readiness best management practices For more information and to RSVP, visit whatcomcd.org/ farm-speaker-series.