The Northern Light: June 1-7, 2023

June 1 - 7, 2023

Community Newspaper of Blaine and Birch Bay

Blaine track and field competes at state, page 6

City ditches plans for larger police station, moves some staff into city hall

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Blaine police and public works leadership will move into city hall in July, which for now has ended several years of city council conversation on expanding or moving the police station.

Blaine City Council unanimously approved the city spending $44,000 to modify city hall’s second floor during its May 22 meeting. Improvements include creating a hallway to connect the offices and ensuring the space meets required regulations for an evidence room, which will also be moved to the second floor.

The Blaine police chief, lieutenant and clerk and the public works director, project manager, two engineers and two technicians will be moved into city hall. City manager Michael Harmon said after the meeting that moving all city employees who directly interact with the public into one location will improve customer service.

“Now our customers will only have one facility to go to when they have either public works questions or planning and zoning questions or building permit questions,” Harmon said. “City hall will be the primary location also for concealed weapon permits and things related to the police department.”

The city is currently leasing the second floor to a few private businesses, Harmon said. The second floor modifications, with which public works staff will help, should be done by the end of June and the city staff will move in early July.

Harmon said this move will be permanent for police and public works staff. He added the city may look at remodeling the police station but is not looking to expand or move officers and sergeants into a new facility.

City council has been discussing for several years whether to expand or build a new Blaine Police Department station, currently located in the old post office that was built in the ’60s. Plans to demolish the old city hall sparked conversations on the future of the police station and evidence room.

Memorial Day ceremony photos, page 10

Citizen scientists monitor local waters, page 13

Blaine softball goes far in state championship

Proposed project envisions combining new Blaine library with affordable housing

A project to build a new Blaine library and add affordable and market-rate housing on the top levels is being brainstormed by Kulshan Community Land Trust (KCLT), the city of Blaine and Whatcom County Library System (WCLS).

Blaine City Council unanimously approved 6-0, with councilmember Garth Baldwin absent, to authorize a feasibility study to look at options for a mixed-use library project during the May 22 council meeting. The project property is one acre of

city-owned land that includes the library, a parking lot and the skate park. The city is already planning to rebuild the skate park in 2027 and is considering moving it to a new location, according to city documents.

KCLT will pay for the feasibility study using a state grant it secured, making it no cost to the project’s partners, the city and WCLS. The feasibility study could be finished by the end of the year.

City council initiated the feasibility study by approving a transfer option agreement that would allow KCLT to potentially acquire the city property, according to

Blaine council enacts emergency ban on manufactured home park applications

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Blaine City Council approved an emergency six-month moratorium on processing manufactured home park building permit applications during its May 22 meeting. The ban will allow city staff time to clean up inconsistencies in the city code that have been at the center of debate for over a year.

The city’s attorney, Jon Sitkin, presented the moratorium to council after an executive ses-

sion at the end of the meeting. Sitkin said the impetus for the moratorium was a now-withdrawn proposal to change the city’s planned unit development (PUD) code text, which conflicts with the underlying zoning code, to allow manufactured home parks.

JIJ Corporation owners Skip and Katie Jansen, who are developing East Harbor Hills in east Blaine, submitted the zoning text amendment request shortly after purchasing the property in fall of 2021. East Blaine resi-

dents voiced strong opposition to the idea of a manufactured home park while planning commission mulled over the amendment request, and the Jansens ultimately decided to withdraw their request a month ago.

The city’s underlying zoning code allows for manufactured home parks in east Blaine and has a section on their regulations. However, the city’s code does not allow manufac-

city documents. The purchase would be subject to future terms, such as the project layout and price of land. The city will determine the terms and can void the transfer option agreement if KCLT does not meet those terms after three years, with the possibility for council to approve two year-long extensions.

Paul Schissler has been consulting KCLT through his Bellingham-based company Madrona Community Development to bring affordable housing to downtown

(See Library, page 3)

s Blaine’s varsity girls softball team at the 1A state championship in Richland on May 27. The Lady Borderites lost 10-0 to eventual state champions Montesano in the semifinal. This was the first time softball went to state since 2009. Coaches Sean Miller, l., and Riley Miller, r., stand beside their team. Read more on page 7.

Photo by Robb Vezzetti

Homes ...

From page 1

tured home parks in planned unit developments (PUDs), which are required for manufactured home parks that are five acres or larger. Skip Jansen has said the inconsis-

tencies originate from several code changes in the early 2000s.

“You have a series of internal conflicts that make some of these a nullity, which raises the question, if it’s a nullity, why do you even have a manufactured home park code section?” Sitkin said during the council meeting. “It’s a confusing

code you have regarding manufactured home parks.”

The moratorium will allow city staff to develop new regulations for manufactured home parks and consult community members and developers about what those regulations could look like and where they could be allowed, Sitkin said.

Sitkin added council could vote to rescind the moratorium before the six-month mark.

Council approved the moratorium 5-1, with councilmember Mike Hill opposed and councilmember Garth Baldwin absent.

“My hope is that we can push our city staff to do it in a shorter period of time because it is on us, and by us, I mean the last 15 years of council, to have not fixed this in the first place,” councilmember Eric Davidson said.

Council’s decision comes after Skip Jansen sent a May 19 letter to council and city staff threatening to sue the city if JIJ Corporation was denied the opportunity to make a manufactured home park application. Skip Jansen explained in the letter that the

developers had followed staff’s recommendation to not apply for a PUD application and instead apply for the text amendment at the beginning of 2022. Jansen requested in the letter that staff make an administrative interpretation on whether it would accept a PUD application with a manufactured home park.

“We feel if we are again denied the opportunity to make an application, especially after more than a year and a half of following the city’s direction, we will be financially harmed and will have little recourse but to seek damages against the city,” Jansen wrote.

After the meeting, Jansen said he didn’t agree with council’s decision to enact the moratorium and stood by his letter.

Nature’s Path offering community garden grants

Nature’s Path Organic Foods is giving away $7,500 grants through its annual Gardens For Good contest to grow community gardens across North America. Applications close Sunday, June 11.

Nature’s Path, an organic cereal manufacturer in Blaine, will select 15 community gardens to receive $7,500 each this year. Garden projects must be registered nonprofits and grow organic food.

The program was established in 2010 and has since donated over $615,000 to nearly 75 gardens. Ten gardens in the U.S. and five gardens in Canada will receive grants this year.

to all the event sponsors and incredible volunteers who gave their time and resources to make the a huge success!

Their contributions are invaluable, and we cannot thank them enough for their unwavering support.

Last year’s grant recipients include the Maple Alley Inn Community Garden in Bellingham and Downtown Eastside Urban Farm in Vancouver, B.C.

The public will vote on the applicants in June, and winners will be announced in July.

To apply for the grant, visit bit. ly/435wYmy

City hall ...

From page 1

In February 2020, city council authorized city staff to pursue $2.5 million for a police station expansion but reversed its decision to pursue the funding that summer because of Covid-19’s financial impact on the city. City council then discussed several options for the future of the police station in 2022 that included finding a new location in east Blaine.

In January, city council considered purchasing the vacant UPS building on Peace Portal Drive for a justice center to house the police department, municipal court and other city offices. Harmon said the city made an offer on the UPS building this spring but the owners weren’t interested.

“It’s a very smart financial choice for the city that will lead to better customer service in the short run and the long run,” Harmon said of the city hall decision.

Blaine police lieutenant Michael Munden said the change will allow the department to improve its space for a training room and interview room. Currently, it’s difficult for the department to train at the station because the only open room is used by officers on shift. The room used for interviewing crime victims has no insulation, meaning victims need to be quieted if someone walks into the lobby while they are giving their statement.

Munden said moving part of the department into city hall and potential modifications, such as soundproofing the interview room, would be a good temporary measure, but added that the building won’t work as the city and police department grow.

“This is going to be a pressure valve being released for us,” Munden said. “We are at the max of what we can do right now.”

rivate Country Estate

Birch Bay berm wins project of the year

OPEN HOUSE: Sun. June 4 Noon-2PM

Perfect Semiahmoo Location!

The American Public Works Association (APWA) Washington

Chapter awarded the Birch Bay berm project of the year in the environment category for projects that cost $5 million to $25 million. Whatcom County Public Works staff accepted the award

April 27 at the Greater Tacoma Center in Tacoma, according to a county press release.

Officially called the Birch Bay Drive and Pedestrian Facility Project, the 1.56-mile-long project protects the road, improves pedestrian safety and restores the

beach’s natural habitat.

It was one of only seven award recipients in Washington state. APWA is a not-for-profit, inter national organization with more than 30,000 members involved in public works and 63 chapters in North America.

primary suites--each a true retreat. Lower level has an abundance of space for everything you could need: home office/gym, workshop, wine cellar, entertainment space, & room for guests.

Private Country Estate

OPEN HOUSE: Sunday, June 4 • 3-5pm

3196 H Street Rd. • $1,495,000

4 beds, 2 baths, 3222 sq. ft. • MLS# 2046217

Situated on private & precious 4.7 useable acres, this classic country home has been well cared for & boasts an array of impressive amenities. Welcoming great room, kitchen & 3 generous bedrooms plus a daylight basement that has endless possibilities. The 2nd story primary suite is a true retreat, complete with loft library/office, walk-in closet & fully remodeled spa-like bathroom. 1,167 square foot-2 bedroom guest cottage--ideal for generating extra revenue. A veritable playground with 3 pickleball courts, basketball court, full-size tennis court & baseball backstop & field. 8-minute drive to I-5 & the US/Canadian border.

Watch as your favorite candies are being made!

Carmel & Chocolates

Cinnamon Rolls & Coffee

C-Foam & Fudge Ice Cream & more!

Kathy Stauffer (360) 815-4718

kstauffer@windermere.com • kathystauffer.com Managing Broker/Windermere-Whatcom

From page 1

and east Blaine. Schissler said after the council meeting that while current zoning allows for the building to go up to five stories, the building is more likely to be three to four stories because a larger building requires more subsidies for affordable housing. The homes would likely include market-rate homes to help pay for the affordable homes, Schissler said.

The homes would be for firsttime home buyers who have $50,000-130,000 household incomes, KCLT executive director Dean Fearing said.

“Working people cannot afford market-price for a home,” Schissler said. “If we find enough subsidy, we might be able to help people earning $40,000 per year.”

The city decided against soliciting requests from private developers for the project because KCLT had the grant to pay for the feasibility study and the organization has a good history of securing acquisition and construction funding, according to city documents.

KCLT is a Bellingham-based nonprofit that helps people purchase homes through down

payment assistance and owning the land under the home, which preserves the home’s affordability for future buyers. The land trust sets a small annual equity increase so that homeowners can earn a profit from their home, but KCLT will keep the home below market value when it’s sold. KCLT has about 140 homes in its trust and more projects being planned.

The feasibility study will also consider whether commercial spaces, in addition to the library, could be included in the project. Schissler said examples of what could be considered include a child care facility, art gallery, community meeting area, office space and parking lot.

“There is a lot of value because of the dual nature of what this accomplishes,” councilmember Kerena Higgins said. “And I don’t see another opportunity for the library coming down the pike anytime soon but this could accomplish that objective.”

Councilmember Richard May said he’s seen a similar model of affordable housing above public libraries in Vancouver, B.C.

“It works out splendidly and is an excellent thing to have right now in the court sitting like this,” May said.

The Blaine Library is a 5,400-square-foot building that

was converted in 1988 from a public works garage. Friends of Blaine Library, which has been in charge of raising funds for library construction, revealed a new library design in February 2020, but progress was sidelined during the pandemic and as WCLS focused on bringing a library to Birch Bay.

WCLS board of directors supported the proposal during their May 16 meeting. WCLS asked that consideration be given to double the library’s size to 10,000 square feet or larger and include sufficient on-site public parking, a separate entrance for library delivery vehicles, potentially two electric vehicle charging stations and sound-proofing between the residences and library. The WCLS board also asked it be included in the library design and review process.

Blaine library branch manager Jonathan Jakobitz said after the meeting that he was in favor of WCLS’ request to double the library’s size to meet Blaine’s needs as it grows.

“I love the idea of this partnership. Affordable housing is desperately needed in our community and I love the idea of the library being used in a multi-use facility,” Jakobitz said. “I’m hopeful about this possibility.”

A Whale of a Place to Go! at Birch Bay

Watch as your favorite candies are being made!

Carmel & Chocolates

Cinnamon Rolls & Coffee

Springhas Sprung at Open Weekends!

C-Foam & Fudge Ice Cream & more!

Entry via east door Seating by the creek

thecshop.com

Fridays 1-8pm Saturdays & Sundays 11am-8pm 4825 Alderson Rd • Birch Bay

Photo courtesy Whatcom County Public Works

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

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

General Editorial Inquiries editor@pointrobertspress.com

Contributors In This Issue

Doug Dahl

Randall Parten

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

Tel: 360/332-1777

Vol XXVIII, No 50

Circulation: 10,500 copies

Circulation Independently verified by:

Celebrating at the finish line of the 50th Ski to Sea OpiniOn Letters

s Mount Baker Experience magazine (sister publication to The Northern Light) was thrilled to sponsor a team for the 50th Ski to Sea Race from the top of Mt. Baker to Bellingham Bay on May 28. The eight legs were represented by Alex Hartley (cross-country ski), Andrew Grubb (downhill ski), Shayla Maupin (running), Ian Haupt (road bike), Elliott Smith and Sebastian Smith (canoe), Linda Finch (cyclocross) and Sarah Sophia Donohoe (kayak). The team came in 12th in the corporate category. A special shoutout to Ian Haupt (Mount Baker Experience editor and reporter for The Northern Light) for placing 53rd overall in the road bike amongst the 474 participating teams. Courtesy photo

The Editor:

The careful planning of traffic control measures is essential to ensure road safety and efficient traffic flow. However, the proposal to install stop signs on an uphill blind curve, solely to accommodate an additional exit for a new development, is highly problematic. This essay, authored by ChatGPT, will argue that such a decision would not only jeopardize winter driving conditions but also lead to congestion and disruptions on a designated Tsunami escape road.

1. Hazardous winter conditions: Placing a stop sign on an uphill blind curve during winter, especially in areas prone to snow and ice, poses significant safety concerns. In snowy and icy conditions, vehicles face reduced traction and increased stopping distances. Attempting to stop on an incline during such conditions becomes exceedingly risky, potentially leading to accidents, sliding and collisions with other vehicles.

2. Limited visibility and reaction time: An uphill blind curve already diminishes drivers’ visibility of oncoming traffic, creating a potential hazard. Adding a stop sign to this equation further compromises safety, as drivers may have reduced reaction time due to poor visibility.

3. Tsunami escape road congestion: Designating a Birch Bay Drive as a Tsunami escape route indicates its critical role in ensuring swift evacuation during emergency situations. Introducing a stop sign on an uphill blind curve along this route would lead to unnecessary stoppages and backups. In emergency scenarios, where every second counts, delays caused by the stop sign can impede the smooth flow of traffic, potentially endangering lives and diminishing the effectiveness of the designated escape route.

Conclusion: The proposition of installing a stop sign on an uphill blind curve solely to accommodate a new development’s exit is fundamentally flawed. A comprehensive approach that considers the long-term implications and prioritizes road safety and efficient traffic flow is necessary for making informed traffic control decisions.

Tom Baker

Birch Bay (Ed. Note: According to Tom Baker, this letter was produced by using ChatGPT, the artificial intelligence chat box that was recently released to the public. We are printing it here for its novelty value; in the future, we will not knowingly publish letters written by non-humans.)

The Editor: I write in response to Mike Harkleroad’s letter in which he recommends that a previous letter writer read more of the history of the Second Amendment. I would encourage Mr. Harkleroad to read more deeply into that history himself.

The first clause, “A well regulated militia, being necessary to the security of a free state …” is rarely if ever mentioned, but is the key to understanding that history. Colonials wanted no standing army, thus the state militias. Those opposed to the new Constitution insisted on the Second Amendment to prevent the federal government from taking control of state militias.

Many, if not most gun-rights activists and some Supreme Court justices, look only at the second clause of the amendment: “… the right of the people to keep and bear arms shall not be infringed.” Note that the amendment does not say “The right of the people to keep guns.”

In the 18th century, the term “keep and bear arms” was commonly understood to be an organized community obligation for protection of everyone. In 1840, the Tennessee Supreme Court stated that “the right to keep and bear arms is secured, it’s of a general and public nature, to be exercised by the people in a body, for the common defense.”

Some justices use “originalism” to infer the intent of the founders and interpret the history of those times. They exhumed the 19th century to argue their Dobbs and Bruen decisions. But if the 19th century can be used to deny a woman’s right to bodily autonomy and strip 100-year-old gun control laws, then shouldn’t guns be limited to the single-shot, breech-loading rifles used back then?

I am not a gun owner, and I believe that the great majority of gun owners are conscientious and law abiding. I believe they would support sensible gun control regulations like background checks and doing away with military-style weapons –single shot or more – on our streets and near schools without backdooring tyranny. Enough blood has been shed because of propaganda and biased thinking.

Bob Schober Blaine

The Editor:

If I had given a donation to PeaceHealth recently I would be livid that outpatient palliative care is going to be discontinued. Perhaps the only way PeaceHealth management might be persuaded to reverse its decision to put outpatient palliative care on the chopping block is for fundraising to slow to a trickle.

Conversations are rampant that major donors are considering suing PeaceHealth for misrepresenting their intentions when they asked prospective donors to provide over $2 million in seed money to launch the palliative program, with the promise that it would be sustained.

Contact PeaceHealth’s foundation and let them know you will not donate to them in the future unless outpatient palliative care is restored to full service at peacehealth.org/foundation/st-joseph.

Another possibility for management to change its decision is for PeaceHealth to lose its tax-exempt status.

Dr. Rod Hochman, the chief executive of Providence Medical Group told an industry publication in 2021 that, “‘Nonprofit health care’ is a misnomer.” He went on to say: It is tax-exempt healthcare. It still makes profits.

Perhaps, PeaceHealth could donate the old St. Luke’s hospital, which was truly a community hospital as a homeless shelter

(See Letters, next page)

Whatcom County Council May meeting roundup

The latest news from May Whatcom County Council meetings. Custer area drainage improvement district

County council unanimously adopted an ordinance, after a public hearing during its May 9 meeting, that changes the method of assessment for property owners in the Custer area’s drainage improvement district.

The primary channels for drainage improvement district 7 are the upstream reaches of California Creek, and tributary to Drayton Harbor, as well as several other unnamed tributary ditches in the area.

The district’s assessment system will be based on a combination of a relative ratio per acre and a relative ratio of improvement value per lot. There will be a minimum fee for lots smaller than one acre. The existing method of assessment is based solely on a relative ratio per acre per lot and does not take into consideration the greater contribution of runoff from and benefit to the district’s higher density development.

More information on the revised assessment can be found at

Letters ...

From previous page

if they won’t pay property taxes. It’s been sitting empty and deteriorating for years.

Contact Bellingham mayor Seth Fleetwood and Bellingham City Council and all the candidates that are running for mayor and demand they end PeaceHealth’s tax-exempt status.

Sheri Lambert Bellingham

The Editor: I have been a cancer patient at PeaceHealth St. Joseph Cancer Center since the summer of 2021 when I was diagnosed with stage three gastro esophageal junction cancer and have received most of my treatment in Bellingham including radiation, chemotherapy and immunotherapy. I am extremely grateful for the extraordinary care I have experienced.

But besides medical treatment, I’ve discovered there is another side to cancer that is equally important: A patient’s emotional and mental health. Without support in this area, it is difficult, if not impossible, for a patient to successfully manage the side effects of various medical interventions. Currently I attend a weekly women’s support group. In addition, my oncologist referred me to the outpatient palliative care program.

I’ve met with Dr. Angela Caffrey twice and both times her compassionate and insightful questions helped me and family members develop the strategies and hope we needed to get through some of the most difficult parts of my treatment plan.

bit.ly/41oROMz.

Bellingham way station

Council unanimously approved the county executive to award Unity Care NW a $2 million grant for capital funding for the Way Station project in Bellingham during the May 9 council meeting. In a separate action, council also amended the project budget to add nearly $2.4 million for a funding total of $5.8 million.

The Way Station, at 1500 N. State Street, will provide individuals and families experiencing homelessness with a range of health and social services to assist their transition to sustainable housing. Whatcom County Health and Community Services department, PeaceHealth, the Opportunity Council and Unity Care NW have partnered to repurpose the county’s property into a facility that will serve people in need of hygiene, medical and behavioral health care.

Unity Care NW is a nonprofit health care provider in Bellingham and Ferndale.

Funding for the Way Station project comes from Unity Care NW, the county’s behavioral health fund, which includes a state grant from the department

Therefore, I was devastated to learn PeaceHealth Palliative Care has been reduced and will now only be available to patients admitted to the hospital.

According to a statement by Bryan Stewart, system vice-president for PeaceHealth’s Home and Community division, “The health care provider couldn’t justify continuing the program given the high cost of palliative care.” It is my opinion that palliative care can actually reduce costs by addressing a patient’s spiritual and emotional needs in addition to medical ones.

I sincerely hope PeaceHealth reconsiders this cost-driven decision and that the full range of palliative care services will be reinstated. Such a decision would be in accordance with both the hospital’s mission statement and values.

Linda Morrow Bellingham

The Editor:

Most readers of The Northern Light are aware of PeaceHealth’s campaign, “We See You.”

In the context of recent medical services cuts, our community is flummoxed by this message because we believe PeaceHealth management does not “see” us. A chorus of voices has raised concerns about the slashing of St. Joe’s outpatient palliative care program. Countless others have similar concerns but are too ill or too vulnerable to muster the energy to add their voices.

I have contacted numerous PeaceHealth administrators about the cuts, ranging from the system-wide CEO and chief medical officer in Vancouver, Washington to the director of community

of commerce, and the public utilities improvement fund.

More information can be found at bit.ly/3nUSr2u. The project budget amendment can be found at bit.ly/41oRZHJ.

Flood response equipment

Council unanimously approved a resolution during its May 9 meeting to authorize the county executive to purchase flood equipment using a state department of commerce grant.

Nearly $4.3 million will be spent on a public safety communications network; flood warning sirens; automated sandbagging machines; administration and overhead; response support containers for supply storage; an integrated public notification system and more, according to the resolution.

Short-term vacation rentals

Council unanimously introduced an ordinance during its May 23 meeting for a public hearing at council’s June 20 meeting on Title 20 Zoning Code Amendments for short-term vacation rentals.

The amendments provide definitions, allowances and permit types that will help the county’s planning commission regulate vacation rentals and their im-

health and chief development officer (CDO) in Bellingham.

Only one PeaceHealth employee responded – the CDO at the local foundation, stating, “There is a whole team of us who are working to find a solution that meets the community’s needs, supports the donor community, and maintains the strong reputation of our foundation. More to come!”

Before PeaceHealth launched its “We See You” campaign, those responsible for its cre ation should have conducted focus groups to determine its potential value. Everyone I’ve asked has a negative impression of the campaign.

We are waiting to be “seen” –and waiting for mission-driven, ethical solutions to the palliative care cuts.

Micki Jackson Bellingham

pacts on neighboring properties.

More information on the proposed amendments can be found at bit.ly/3WIKJFC.

Lighthouse Mission funding

In a change from its previous decision, council requested administration bring forward a $750,000 contract with the Lighthouse Mission in Bellingham to fund the shelter’s kitchen equipment and specialty furnishings in a motion during its May 23 meeting. The motion passed with a 4-1-2 vote, with councilmember Carol Frazey opposed and councilmembers

Todd Donovan and Kaylee Galloway abstaining.

Council originally denied the new homeless shelter funds because as a Christian organization its hiring practices conflict with Whatcom County policy that prohibits religious bias of any kind.

Funding for the contract would come from the county’s American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds, according to the meeting agenda.

Weeda finishes 6th in 110-meter hurdles, relay team out in prelims

B y I an h aupt

Sophomore Josiah Weeda placed sixth in the 110-meter hurdles at the 1A state championship meet in Yakima last weekend, while Blaine’s 4x100 relay team ran their second fastest time of the season but failed to make the final.

Weeda finished the final with a time of 15.87 seconds. The winner finished in 15.47 seconds. Weeda placed second in his heat in 15.79 seconds and had the third fastest time in the preliminary round coming into the final.

Blaine track and field head coach Mark Schultz said Weeda lost his footing a little coming off the third hurdle in the final, which he couldn’t recover from against stiff competition. But Schultz said it’s difficult to complain about a sophomore taking sixth at the

state finals. Weeda’s time in the prelims would’ve placed him fifth in the finals; however, wind was a factor in the prelims.

“I wish we could switch those two races,” Schultz said.

Blaine’s 4x100 relay team placed 14th overall in the preliminary rounds with a time of 45.95 seconds. Eight teams qualified for the final. The slowest qualifying time was 44.97 seconds. Seattle Academy won in the finals with a time in the low 43 seconds. Lynden Christian –the other Whatcom County team in the event – finished 11th.

Schultz said the Blaine boys ran their second fastest time of the season, and that they were just happy to compete at the state meet. Blaine’s team consists of sophomore Colby Shipp, Weeda, junior Justin Minjarez and sophomore AJ Bennett, all of whom

will be returning next season. “They are definitely going to be excited for next year,” Schultz said.

Blaine soccer players make all-conference

Seven Blaine boys soccer team members made it onto the Northwest Conference’s all-conference team or received separate honors. Head coach Gio Quesada was named coach of the year, and senior defender Robert Prado was named defensive player of the year. Senior forwards Alessandro Rangel and Joel Barrientos-Estrada were named first-team all-conference along with senior goalkeeper Kael Evinger, junior midfielder Leonardo Blanco and freshman midfielder Dimitriy Yuryev.

The Borderites finished their season with a 11-4-2 overall record. They lost to the Meridian Trojans in the district final and later ended their season at bi-districts, losing to the Overlake Owls.

s Josiah Weeda with his sixth place medal. Photo by Andy Weeda

s AJ Bennett, second from left, finishing the anchor leg in Blaine’s 4x100 relay at the bi-district championships at Lynden Christian High School May 20. Photo by Molly Ernst

Lady Borderites fall to state champ Montesano in semifinal

B y I an h aupt

Blaine softball’s state championship run ended May 27 in the second round of the consolation bracket after the Lady Borderites lost 10-0 to eventual state champs Montesano in the semifinal earlier in the day.

“It’s never the outcome that you want, unless you’re number one,” Blaine head coach Sean Miller said. “But under the circumstances, I think [the girls] represented well.”

Coming into the tournament as bi-district champions, Blaine was the fourth seed and got a bye in the opening round. The Lady Borderites beat the Riverside Rams 3-1 in the quarter final May 26 with a star performance from junior pitcher Emersyn Bakker on the mound and at the plate. She had 16 strikeouts and allowed the Rams only five hits in the game.

Bakker also went two-for-two at the plate, pushing in two runs in the first inning and one run in the fifth inning.

The Lady Borderites moved onto the semifinals to face No. 1 seed Montesano, where the Bulldogs showed why they were the favorites. Miller said Montesano played a version of small ball –which consists of bunts, slaps and running the bases aggressively – really well. They put the ball in places Blaine’s defense couldn’t get to, he said.

Montesano was also superb defensively, allowing only two hits to Blaine seniors Piper Nissen and Makenna Wright. The game finished 10-0. It was the first time the Lady Borderites didn’t score a run all season. Blaine lost to Montesano 4-2 during the regular season.

“They were even better at state than when we played them the first time,” Miller said.

Montesano went on to beat No. 2 seed Royal City 8-2 in the championship final May 28. Blaine dropped down to the consolation round, where the team

was eliminated after losing 8-3 to No. 6 seed Deer Park. Deer Park went on to finish third, winning the consolation final 10-3.

“Deer Park was a team we should’ve beaten but I think we just ran out of steam,” Miller said. Although it was a tough way to go out, Miller said he couldn’t be more proud of his team. The Lady Borderites were conference and district champions and fin-

ished their season with a 22-4 overall record. Four members were also recognized as all conference. Miller was named coach of the year. Bakker was named defensive player of the year, and Nissen and Wright received first team honors.

The last time softball went to state was in 2009.

Miller thanked the community and parents for their support, not

just this season but for the last four years. Graduating seniors include Nissen, Wright, Brooklyn Henderson and Alyssa Bacon, who broke her hand at districts and missed the end of the season. Miller said this year’s team was a special group and that he couldn’t have asked for more tenacity, heart and grit.

“I was surprised,” he said about Blaine’s season overall. “I wasn’t

surprised that we were competing at a high level but I was surprised how long the team sustained that high level. I can’t be more proud of these kids’ accomplishments, because it’s been a long time coming. And a lot of them have worked really hard to get here.”

s Emersyn Bakker throws to first base in Blaine’s 10-0 loss to Montesano May 27. Montesano went on to win the 1A state championship May 28, beating Royal City High School 8-3.

Photo by Robb Vezzetti

s The Lady Borderites lost two games May 27 in the 1A state championships double-elimination bracket.

Photo by Robb Vezzetti

s Senior Piper Nissen and Blaine head coach Sean Miller on May 27.

Photo by Robb Vezzetti

s Blaine beat Riverside 3-1 in the quarterfinals of the 1A softball state championships in Richland on May 26. Photo by Robb Vezzetti

Health & Wellness

Local choices in health, healing & fitness.

Ultraviolet exposure and its impact on eye health

Ultraviolet radiation from the sun can prove harmful to the skin. UV rays have been linked to the formation of various skin cancers, including the dangerous melanoma. However, UV exposure also can cause issues elsewhere in the body, including the eyes.

The American Academy of Ophthalmology says everyone’s eyes are at risk of damage from UV light, regardless of their age or skin pigmentation. But some people are at higher risk. Children are included in the elevated risk group because they often play outside. Some studies also show that people with eye diseases like retinal dystro -

phy or those who underwent surgery for cataracts may be at higher risk for sun damage.

UV light and eye disease

UV light damages cells in the eyes, particularly in the retina. The retina is responsible for capturing light that enters the eye and translates it into the images you see. If the retina becomes damaged, vision can be impaired or even lost. Here are some additional eye diseases associated with UV radiation.

• Photokeratitis: This is the equivalent of a sunburn on the surface of the eye. While it can occur during the summer, the sun reflecting off of snow or light-colored pavement also

can contribute to photokeratitis at other times of the year.

• Cataracts: UV-B radiation can harm the lens of the eye and damage proteins. Over time, these proteins can clump together to form cataracts.

• Conjunctival cancer: This is a form of cancer that forms on the surface of the eye, known as the conjunctiva.

• Macular degeneration: This is the leading cause of vision loss among older people. The macula is the center of the retina. If this area becomes damaged, central vision will be compromised.

Protect vision

It’s easy to protect the eyes

from UV rays. Individuals with blue or green eyes should keep in mind that they are at a high risk of UV damage. However, everyone should take precautions.

Look for sunglasses that protect against UV-A and UV-B rays, offering 99 to 100 percent protection (or UV400 rating).

UV-A rays harm central vision, while UV-B rays can damage the front of the eye. Sunglasses should be worn when spending time outdoors. Sunglasses are available in all sizes, even for kids. Wraparound styles may protect the eyes and sides of the face.

Wearing a wide-brimmed hat

also can protect the eyes by blocking harmful light. Select a hat with a broad, dark brim that shades the eyes and reduces glare, advises the National Eye Institute.

Consider the use of UV-blocking contact lenses. Some contact lenses offer UV protection, which can be an added precaution when used with sunglasses.

Another way to avoid UV eye risks is to stay away from tanning booths, mercury vapor lights and some types of halogen or fluorescent lights.

Speak with an eye professional about UV eye damage and other ways to mitigate risk.

PeaceHealth brings back high school shadowing program after pandemic

The PeaceHealth High School Shadowing Program is returning for Whatcom County high

school students interested in pursuing health care careers after being paused during the

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.

Call us today to learn more about our offers! 360-671-6060

pandemic. The program will be offered one day per month from June through August.

Students who are at least 16 years old are eligible to participate in the program, which will pair students with a health care worker at PeaceHealth St. Joseph Medical Center in Bellingham, according to a May 30 press release from PeaceHealth. The student will learn what a day in the life of a caregiver looks like and will introduce them to specialized support staff jobs in addition to doctors and nurses.

The program is free and runs from 8:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. on Friday, June 2; Wednesday, July 26; and Friday, August 25. Breakfast and lunch will be provided.

P: (360) 366-5511

F: (360) 366-0321

• Botox & Jeuveau Injections - botulinum toxins

• Juvederm, Revanesse, Restylane - dermal fillers

• Microneedling - wrinkles, scars, anti-aging & more

• Medical Grade Facials - medical products & extracts

• IV Drip Therapy - immunity, energy, weight loss & more

• Chemical Peels - wrinkles, acne scarring, uneven skin tone, rejuvenation & more

• Laser Treatments - hair removal, photo facial, RF

• PRP Treatments for hair regrowth, skin rejuvenation & joint recovery

• Medical Weight Loss Management & BHRT-Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy

360-474-3535

• www.md-wellness.com

SIGNUP

To register, students can contact Jessica Balson, clinical nurse educator, at jbalson@peacehealth.org and share their name, email and phone number. Students will need to submit proof of vaccinations and sign a consent form.

Melanoma signs and symptoms

Melanoma is a type of skin cancer that affects melanocytes, or the cells that produce the skin pigment melanin. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention says that the sun’s UV-B rays stimulate melanocytes, and more than 90 percent of melanomas are thought to be caused by ultraviolet exposure. Melanoma can exhibit different symptoms depending on the part of the body it is affecting, and may not affect everyone in the same way. The following are some of the signs and symptoms of melanoma.

• A new spot on the skin that changes in shape, size or color.

• A spot or mole that looks different from the other moles or spots on the skin (known as the ugly duckling sign).

• A sore that doesn’t heal.

• Spreading of pigment from the border of a spot into the surrounding skin.

• Changes in sensation in the skin, such as itchiness, tenderness or pain.

• Changes in the surface of a mole, whether bleeding, oozing or scaliness.

• A dark line beneath the nail bed.

• The presence of hard or swollen lymph nodes.

• A hard lump on the skin.

• Unexplained pain, weight loss or fatigue.

• Ocular melanoma, or melano-

ma that occurs in the eye, may be difficult to see without a professional eye exam. Enlarged blood vessels in the eye could indicate the presence of a tumor. Any symptoms, however benign they may seem, should be brought to the attention of a doctor. The Melanoma Research Alliance says there is now a 98 percent five-year survival rate for stage 0, I and II localized melanoma.

Great

“Bonnie”

Missing from D & 11th St.

Please call or text 916-724-9425

BLAINE SCHOOL DISTRICT

HAS ONE BUS UP FOR SURPLUS BID:

Minimum Bid of $1000 required:

Thomas Saf T Liner Type D. 183,765mi, 10869 hrs

VIN 1T75U4B27R1124048

Eng: Rebuilt 3116 CAT Turbo Diesel, Trans: Allison MT643

Vehicle sold as is and can be seen at the Blaine School District Bus Yard. Bidder can view buses but not test drive. In running condition and has passed 2022 State Patrol Inspection.

Sealed bids are due by 9am on July 7, 2023 at the Blaine School District Office Transportation Office, 765 H St, Blaine WA 98230. Fax or Email bids will not be accepted. Specifications may be obtained by calling the Transportation Office at (360) 332-0700.

The Blaine School District Board of Directors reserves the right to waive any informalities and irregularities.

FREE

Very Nice Wool Fleece just sheared 3 sheep Romney/Dorset breed 360-332-8801

Also, FREE Rhubarb Plants

NOTICE TO CREDITORS IN THE SUPERIOR COURT OF THE STATE OF WASHINGTON IN AND FOR THE COUNTY OF WHATCOM In re the Estate of: MARLENE JOAN BROERSMA, Deceased. Probate No. 23-400394-37. NOTICE TO CREDITORS.

Assigned Judge: Lee Grochmal. 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 18, 2023.

Date of first publication: Pending Personal Representative: DALE BROERSMA Attorney for the Estate: KEITH A. BODE, WSBA #7791 314 Fifth Street, P.O. Box 688, Lynden, WA 98264-0688. Tel. (360) 354-5021

Robert

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 representatives 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 Clerk of this Court. The claim must be presented within the later of: (1) Thirty days after the 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: May 11, 2023.

Date of first publication: June 1, 2023

Personal Representative: CHERYL R. FRALEY 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: YONEKO NAITO BITLER, Deceased. No. 234-00495-37. NOTICE TO CREDITORS.

Judge Robert Olson

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

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

Date of Filing of Notice to Creditors: May 11, 2023 with Clerk of Court:

Date of First Publication: May 18, 2023

Name of Administrator:

CINDY MAXWELL

Attorney for Administrators:

Steven D. Avery, WSBA #35262

Address for Mailing or Service:

Avery Elder Law, P.S. 801 Samish Way, Ste. 202 Bellingham WA 98229

Telephone: (360) 325-2550

Email: steve@averyelderlaw.com

DATED: May 11, 2023

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

Attorney for Administrator

CINDY MAXWELL www.averyelderlaw.com

NOTICE TO CREDITORS IN THE SUPERIOR COURT OF THE STATE OF WASHINGTON IN AND FOR THE COUNTY OF WHATCOM In re the Estate of: HARRIETT MAE HAAK, Deceased. Probate No. 23-4-00343-37. NOTICE TO CREDITORS Assigned Judge: Robert E. Olson. The Personal Representatives named below has been appointed as co-personal representatives 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, 2023.

Date of first publication: Pending Personal Representative: GLORIA J. BODE, VICTOR A. HAAK Attorney for the Estate: KEITH A. BODE, WSBA #7791 314 Fifth Street, P.O. Box 688, Lynden, WA 98264-0688. Tel. (360) 354-5021

Deceased. No. 234-00485-37. 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 9, 2023 with Clerk of Court:

Date of First Publication: May 18, 2023

Name of Administrator:

MELISSA WEAVER

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 9, 2023

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

Attorney for Administrator

MELISSA WEAVER www.averyelderlaw.com

6957 Birch Bay Drive

MLS #2028057 $1,125,000

Fabulous ocean views from this medium bank beachfront 3416sf home in one of Birch Bay’s most coveted neighborhoods. Main level with living room, dining, primary bdrm, & deck highlighting ocean, mountain & sunsets. Impeccably built with hickory engineered hardwood flooring, large kitchen w/beautiful cherry cabinets, granite island, custom pantry, tiled primary ensuite & large walk-in closet with built-ins. Vaulted ceilings, radiant in-floor heat & tons of storage.

Randy Weg 360-305-5704

8205

MLS #2036381 $788,500

Welcome to your dream home in beautiful Birch Bay Village! This 4 bed/2.5 bath stunner offers an open & bright floor plan. The large living room with cozy fireplace provides the ideal place to relax & unwind.

The gourmet kitchen features top-of-theline appliances, plenty of counter space & large island for meal prep or casual dining. Generously sized bedrooms with ample closet space. The bathrooms are luxurious & spa-like.

Leah Crews 360-305-4747

BAY & SEMIAHMOO

6969 Birch Bay Drive

MLS #2066387

$1,250,000

This beautiful immaculate 3 bdrm 2.5 bath beachfront home has all the outstanding details plus a stunning ocean view in a coveted Birch Bay neighborhood. Pavertiled entry, a spiral staircase & a floorplan that takes advantage of the spectacular 180-degree views. Three gas fireplaces, full sauna & spacious primary bed/bath w/ private covered upper-level deck looking out over beach & Canadian Gulf Islands. Home includes a 2-car garage with lots of storage. Darin Jurasevich 360-325-2284

8132

MLS #2064042 $680,000

Stunning, updated and meticulously maintained single-story home in Birch Bay Village with 4 bedrooms including two primary bedrooms featuring ensuite bathrooms. This custom home is located at the top of the hill on a huge 10,865 sf lot. Perfect for entertaining with an open floor plan, spacious living room, second family room, dining room, large, fenced backyard, and huge deck. Loads of special features; breakfast bar, bay window, vaulted ceilings & more.

Matt Berry 360-389-0104

7650 Birch Bay Dr Unit #A6

MLS #2065512 $329,950

Completely remodeled 2 bedroom, 1.5 bath condo located at the beachfront Bay Rim Condominiums in Birch Bay! Includes semiprivate patio, dedicated parking space, heated pool, trails, pond, picnic area PLUS a gated private beach area with dedicated bridge! New Improvements include: all NEW kitchen, dishwasher, sinks, quartz countertops, subway tile backsplash, hot water heater, garbage disposal, bathroom sinks, countertops, faucets, & flooring. Brian Mattioli 360-201-4198

9412

Turnstone Lane #24

MLS #2071352 $1,300,000

Stunning home with incredible views. Prepare your next dinner party in your gourmet kitchen, serve your guests a bottle of wine from the beverage cooler in the butler’s pantry. A soaring ceiling and modern fireplace accent the living room. French doors open to your private patio. Primary bedroom with all required living are on the main floor. Upstairs is a private casita/bedroom fantastic for a large office, workout room or guest quarters. Oversized garage with epoxy floor Greg Flint 360-220-0551

5488 Puffin Place

MLS #2041955 $350,000

Welcome to Home Site #20 in the prestigious Drayton Hillside community, located on Puffin Place. This stunning lot boasts over 1/2 acre of prime real estate, covering 23958 sq. ft. With panoramic water and mountain views, it’s the perfect place to build your dream home. Imagine waking up to the tranquil beauty of nature every morning, surrounded by the peaceful ambiance of a gated community.*

Brian Southwick 360-815-6638

2237

4455 Castlerock Drive

MLS #2073566 $759,000

A real charmer @ The Greens! This exquisite & well cared for home has all main floor living with an upstairs bonus room & wet bar that offers the perfect blend of living space, comfort & luxury. Built by the exceptional Red Sky Construction, the attention to quality detail shows. This home features a sense of spaciousness, style, & PNW charm. The kitchen is a culinary haven, featuring maple cabinets, bamboo floors, granite counters, & new stainless-steel appliances.

Kathy Stauffer 360-815-4718

4255 West Road

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

MLS #2019960 $75,000

Welcome to this fantastic 1970’s home in the heart of Birch Bay. The living room & kitchen are well equipped to make watching tv relaxing and making your favorite meal. Full-size bath with washer and dryer and 2 bedrooms with retro wood paneling throughout. Seller would like to include everything in the sale. Relax on the large, covered deck that is perfect for hosting BBQs with friends or simply just enjoy the breathtaking sunsets over the bay!

Lesha Hutchison 360-510-0640

MLS #2049257 $1,000,000

Rare opportunity to own direct waterfront steps from Birch Bay State Park. This charming and functional two-bedroom, onebathroom home is perfect for those who love the ocean and want to enjoy all that Birch Bay has to offer. The gorgeous wood fireplace, real wood paneling, and exposed beams add a cozy touch to the living room as you stare out across the bay. Entertain outside on the expansive 850 sf patio overlooking the ocean, complete with sea wall. Gerry Allen 360-920-0563

MLS #2062696 $245,000

Opportunity knocks on this nearly half acre lot in the City of Blaine with City utilities already on the property! The value here is in the land & existing utility connections and the fantastic proximity to bustling downtown Blaine, I-5 and two US/Canada border crossings. The current house on the property is likely a tear down...creating unlimited potential for the future. Located in Manufacturing Subzone B, possible uses include: retail and wholesale goods, sales and service.

Jen Freeman 360-815-0803

MLS #2040701 $139,500

Wooded almost 1 acre lot just outside city limits. Included in price, Completed and approved Reasonable use determination, septic design, comprehensive wetlands mitigation plan, storm water design, surveyed. Electrical and city water available and in the street, all the questions answered. Possible to get building permit this year and get started building your new home. No HOA restrictions.

Billy Brown 360-220-7175

Tonya Wahl 541-707-0196

Chehalis Road

Quinault Road

7954 Birch Bay Drive #24

7387 Birch Bay Drive

Odell Street

Citizen scientists monitor Birch Bay, Drayton Harbor for red tide

offered two Blaine students, who had an interest in marine biology, summer internships with the HAB hunters. Beauregard said the group plans to offer those internships again this summer.

Beauregard met GSSC founder and director Julie Hirsch as fellow members on the Drayton Harbor Shellfish Protection District Advisory Committee, where he is the current vice chairman and former chairman. The committee is dedicated to improving water quality and enhancing the shellfish resource in Drayton Harbor.

“He’s doing this where he lives to contribute back to his community,” Hirsch said of Beauregard’s work in Drayton Harbor. “He wants to be able to use the resources as well. It’s part of that connection we want.”

A group of Blaine residents who routinely monitor the toxin levels in Birch Bay and Drayton Harbor took samples last month that indicated shellfish poisoning in local waters.

Every Tuesday, the Drayton Harbor Harmful Algal Bloom Hunters go out to Birch Bay Village Marina and Semiahmoo Marina to take mussel and phytoplankton samples that are then sent to a state lab in Shoreline that returns results on the coastal region’s water quality to the group the next day. The group found Alexandrium, algae that produces toxins that cause paralytic shellfish poisoning (PSP), in its May 2 samples and notified the Washington State Department of Health (DOH) of a possible harmful algal bloom. DOH suspended recreational shellfish harvesting in the area on May 3. Harmful algal blooms (HAB), commonly referred to as red tide, occur when algae colonies grow out of control and become toxic to people, fish, shellfish, marine mammals and birds. HABs are naturally occurring, but due to pollution and climate change, can occur more often.

The toxic levels can be fatal in rare cases. The first documented case of a probable death due to red tide was in 1793 in B.C. when a crewman of Captain George Vancouver died after eating contaminated shellfish, according to research from the University of British Columbia.

Although given the name “red tide,” an area can experience a bloom even though the water appears clear. The term is commonly associated with the PSP toxin.

Nowadays, shellfish harvesting is routinely suspended when harmful levels are reached to avoid PSP and other HAB-originated human illnesses. DOH closed recreational shellfish harvesting in Whatcom County last summer after the HAB hunters found high levels of biotoxins in mussels in Semiahmoo and Birch

Bay. While harmful to humans, these toxins are not harmful to marine life.

Blaine resident Rick Beauregard formed the team in 2020 and it now has two full years – 2021 and 2022 – of data for the Birch Bay and Drayton Harbor area. Weekly sampling consists of taking a plankton tow and collecting mussels off the dock at both sites and sending the samples to the lab.

Beauregard was part of a team to first document the probable causes of the red tide outbreak in New England in 1972, as a researcher with the University of New Hampshire. He is a retired marine biologist and environmental consultant. When he moved to Blaine in 2015 after retiring from an over 30year career, he found a statewide network of citizen scientists monitoring throughout the Salish Sea, SoundToxins, where he saw an opportunity to use his past experience.

“When I looked at their map, there was a data gap up here in northern Whatcom County,” Beauregard said. “Given the importance of the shellfish resource in Drayton Harbor – commercially, for historical tribal use and recreational use, and also because [the area] is so close to the Fraser River it has a huge impact on it – I thought it was a strategic location to have a site to monitor harmful algae outbreaks.”

SoundToxins receives funding from research institute Washington Sea Grant. The Drayton Harbor HAB Hunters were officially added to the SoundToxins network in early April. The group is made up of volunteers and is self-funded through donations.

The group’s mission is twofold, Beauregard said.

While filling SoundToxins’ data gap in the area, the HAB hunters, in partnership with Garden of the Salish Sea Curriculum (GSSC), also aims to provide education and outreach opportunities to students. GSSC is a local K-12 marine science education program that teaches through field experience. Last year, the group

Beauregard originally moved to Blaine from southern California for its sailing opportunities, although he said he has since sold his boat.

The HAB hunters also partner with Drayton Harbor Oyster Company to warn the oyster farm and restaurant of developing blooms. Co-owner Steve Seymour said when Alexandrium starts to appear in Drayton Harbor his company is put on guard. Red tide at an extreme level would mean suspending business.

“Beauregard give us a head start,” Seymour said.

Seymour added that most of the time the oysters are fine, but when a bloom begins they start testing their oysters more regularly.

When looking at Washington State Department of Health’s data from the last decade, Beauregard said the Birch Bay and Drayton Harbor areas have had some of the highest biotoxin levels in the entire Puget Sound. He said he hopes as the HAB hunters gather more data they can see correlations between the water quality, phytoplankton and shellfish to develop predictions of when blooms are likely.

“You don’t want to close the shellfish beds if you don’t need to,” Beauregard said. “On the other hand, you don’t want to miss a toxic event and cause a serious health problem. So it’s important to be vigilant.”

s Drayton Harbor Harmful Algal Bloom Hunters (HAB) member Rick Beauregard collects samples with a plankton net at Plover Dock.

Courtesy photo

s Patricia Lulu collects mussel samples for biotoxin testing at Semiahmoo Marina.

Courtesy photo

sheriff’s repOrts

May 19, 9:53 p.m.: Hit and run on Birch Bay Drive.

May 19, 9:56 p.m.: Hot rod on Birch Bay Drive.

May 19, 10:23 p.m.: Domestic physical on Harborview Road.

May 19, 10:43 p.m.: Traffic hazard on northbound I-5 and Birch Bay-Lynden Road, Custer.

May 20, 9:53 a.m.: Trespass on Birch Bay-Lynden Road.

May 20, 3:33 p.m.: Domestic order violation on Harbor Drive. Suspect arrested.

May 20, 11:05 p.m.: Party on Sunrise Road, Custer.

May 21, 9:09 a.m.: DUI on Birch Bay-Lynden Road.

May 21, 1:31 p.m.: Fraud on Birch Bay-Lynden Road.

May 21, 11:03 p.m.: Vehicle theft on Birch Bay Drive.

May 22, 7:15 a.m.: Sex offender registration on Blaine Road.

May 22, 10:46 a.m.: Theft on Blaine Road.

May 23, 11:05 a.m.: Child abuse on Sweet Road.

May 23, 12:44 p.m.: Boating problem on Birch Bay Drive and Shintaffer Road.

May 23, 7:14 p.m.: Disorderly conduct on Birch Bay Drive and Harborview Road.

May 24, 12:34 a.m.: Domestic

order violation on Dory Court.

May 24, 2:01 p.m.: Missing child on Ronald Drive.

May 25, 7:02 a.m.: Mental health issue on Birch Bay-Lynden Road and Portal Way, Custer.

May 25, 8:16 a.m.: Domestic physical on Birch Bay-Lynden Road, Custer.

May 25, 3:31 p.m.: Motor vehicle accident blocking on Portal Way and Arnie Road, Custer.

pOLiCe repOrts

May 19, 5:16 p.m.: Abandoned vehicle on 2nd Street.

May 20, 9:48 a.m.: Suspicious circumstance on Peace Portal Drive.

May 20, 7:46 p.m.: Juvenile problem on Marine Drive.

May 20, 11:13 p.m.: Vandalism on Peace Portal Drive.

May 21, 12:07 p.m.: Suspicious vehicle on A Street.

May 21, 12:07 p.m.: Threat on Hughes Avenue.

May 21, 2:38 p.m.: Theft on H Street.

May 21, 5:07 p.m.: Trespass on G Street.

May 21, 9:14 p.m.: Runaway on Harrison Avenue.

May 22, 1:50 p.m.: Civil problem on Semiahmoo Parkway.

May 22, 5:16 p.m.: Vandalism on D Street.

May 22, 5:52 p.m.: Runaway on Marine Drive.

May 22, 8:45 p.m.: Juvenile problem on Clyde Street.

CrOssWOrd

44. Vessel to bathe in 45. Inches per minute (abbr.) 48. Frosts

Dipped into

tissue

13. Denotes one from whom title is taken

15. Historic college hoops tournament

17. Hut by a swimming pool

18. Defunct European monetary unit

21. Feeds on insects

23. Adult male

24. Melancholic

27. Sheets of glass

29. Slang for famous person

32. Not good

34. “Ghetto Superstar” singer

35. The “World” is one

36. Used to make guacamole

39. Midway between south and southwest

40. Wet dirt

43. Ancient Egyptian name

44. Set of four 46. Strips 47. Wife

49. More dried-up

51. Socially inept person

54. Clusters on fern fronds

May 22, 10:05 p.m.: Motor vehicle accident blocking on H Street.

May 23, 7:22 p.m.: Theft on Marine Drive.

May 23, 1:11 p.m.: Threat on Alder Street.

May 23, 4 p.m.: Security check on Snow Goose Lane.

May 23, 9:06 p.m.: Trespass on H Street.

May 23, 10:31 p.m.: Domestic verbal on Peace Portal Drive.

May 23, 11:36 p.m.: Hit and run on E Street.

May 24, 8:57 a.m.: Property found on H Street.

May 24, 10:38 p.m.: Abandoned vehicle on 2nd Street.

May 24, 2:21 p.m.: Assist citizen on H Street.

May 25, 9:04 p.m.: Drugs on H Street.

May 25, 2:10 p.m.: Neighborhood dispute on H Street.

59. Bar bill

60. Prefix indicating “away from”

61. Very important person

62. Fiddler crabs

64. Special therapy

ANSWERS: THENORTHERNLIGHT.COM

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.

DVSAS Garden Tour: Saturday June 3, 10 a.m. – 2 p.m., various gardens in Bellingham. $25 per person. Rain or shine. Addresses will be announced to registered attendees. Proceeds benefit Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault Services. Register at dvsas.org.

Day at the Beach: Saturday, June 3, 10 a.m. – 1 p.m., Birch Bay State Park, 7290 Birch Bay Drive. Naturalist-led beach walks, kids activities, volunteer appreciation and more. Free. Info: bbwarm.whatcomcounty.org. Sponsored by BBWARM and Whatcom Conservation District.

Live Music at Birch Bay State Park: Saturday, June 3, noon–1 p.m., BP Heron Center, 7290 Birch Bay Drive. Bellingham’s Homegrown Irish-American folk band The Devillies perform an eclectic mix of original and traditional songs and tunes from dear auld Ireland and beyond.

“Shining Mountains” book presentation: Sunday, June 4, 4-5 p.m., Village Books,1200 11th Street in Bellingham. Alix Christie, daughter of The Northern Light’s founding editor Glennys Christie, will be presenting her new novel “Shining Mountains.” The novel is based on the true story of Glennys’s Scottish ancestor, whose brother was a fur trader for the Hudson’s Bay Company. He married a Nez Perce woman and founded a big family – this is the story of their lives caught in the crossfire of westward colonial expansion from the 1840s to 1870s in Washington, Idaho & Montana. It’s a really important look at the pre-American history that most of us never learned in school. Plus it’s a great love story!

Blaine Chamber of Commerce Breakfast: Thursday, June 8, 7:30–8:30 a.m., Semiahmoo Golf and Country Club Great Blue Heron Grill, 8720 Semiahmoo Parkway. RSVP: info@blainechamber.com.

World Ocean Day: Thursday, June 8, 3 p.m., meet at BP Heron Center, 7290 Birch Bay Drive. Beach walk and clean up, debris tracker training. Supper with the Superintendent: Thursday, June 8, 6 p.m., Blaine High School Black and Orange Box Theater (entrance behind Borderite stadium). The community is invited to this town hall-style, question and answer session with superintendent Christopher Granger. Info: blainesd.org.

Orca Film: Friday, June 9, 7 p.m., BP Heron Center, 7290 Birch Bay Drive. Blaine Senior Center Big Bucks Bingo: Saturday, June 10, noon–3 p.m., Blaine Senior Center, 763 G Street. Over $275 in prizes. Early bird starts at 12:30 p.m. Regular bingo at 1 p.m. Eight games $15. Info: 360/332-8040.

Live Birds of Prey: Saturday, June 10, 6 p.m., Birch Bay State Park wildlife theater. Learn about raptors with live birds. Free parking.

Ongoing

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.

The Bridge Clothing Bank Boutique: Open Wednesday–Saturday, 11 a.m.–4 p.m. Donations accepted Wednesdays, 11 a.m.–2 p.m. or by appointment. The Bridge Community Hope Center’s new location, 7620 Birch Bay Drive. Blaine’s Market by the Sea: Saturdays, 10 a.m. – 2 p.m., Blaine’s G Street Plaza. Local vendors selling handcrafted merchandise. Vendor space available. Info: blainechamber.com.

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

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

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

Alaska Packers Association Cannery Museum: Open Saturdays and Sundays, 1–5 p.m., 9261 Semiahmoo Parkway. Free, donations welcome.

Blaine Book Club: Friday, June 16, 1 p.m., Blaine Library, 610 3rd Street. June title: One Two Three by Laurie Frankel. Info: Kelly at 360/305-3637.

Narcotics Anonymous: Mondays, 7–8 p.m., Blaine United Church of Christ basement, 855 4th Street. Everyone welcome. Info: Blainenarcoticsanonymous@gmail.com.

Weather

Precipitation: During the period of May 22-28, 0.1 inches of precipitation were recorded. The 2023 yearto-date precipitation is 10.5 inches.

Temperature: High for the past week was 77°F on May 26 with a low of 48°F on May 24 and 25 as well. Average high was 66°F and average low was 54°F.

Courtesy Birch Bay Water & Sewer Dist.

Blaine Serenity Al-Anon: Mondays, noon–1 p.m. on Zoom. Have you been dealing with alcoholism with a friend or family member? Info: 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. Practice and learn storytelling techniques. 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.

Report by Blaine Police Department

Blaine High School choir travels to Anaheim

Road Rules: Seat belts save lives

Question: You say that seat belts save lives, but have you considered that those involved in a fatal crash don’t need extensive medical care? It’s the non-fatalities through use of seat belts that often require extensive and costly medical services.

Answer: It sounds like you’re suggesting that the reason we shouldn’t use seat belts is because it’s cheaper to have people die than to treat them. That’s pretty messed up. I see two possibilities for the kind of people who think like this: people who don’t care about other humans and people who don’t care about physics or biology.

I want to assume you care about other people, so we’ll focus on your neglected science lessons. The human body has a limit on how much force it can sustain in a crash. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration figures that 60 Gs (60 times the force of gravity) for three milliseconds results in a high likelihood of serious injury or death. Probably death.

s Blaine High School Chamber Choir students drew a crowd with their performance of Disney songs at Disney California Adventure Park in Anaheim, California on May 26. Choir director Andy Marshall said the group also had the opportunity to record a couple of songs in a professional recording studio. Marshall said the trip is planned to be put on every four years. The middle and high school choirs will perform the same set for the Disney Extravaganza Concert at 7 p.m. Monday, June 5 in the Performing Arts Center, 975 H Street. The concert is free and open to the public.

G-force doesn’t mean much without context. What does it take to generate the kind of G-force that causes severe injuries or death? There are a lot of ways to crash, and they all have different effects on the body, so I’m going to simplify things and just consider a head-on crash into a fixed object, like a wall or a

full-grown maple tree.

When you crash into something, you don’t stop immediately. There’s a fraction of a second when the crushing happens (to your car, not you hopefully). That’s the time it takes to come to a complete stop. Without a seat belt, the stopping time is about the same for your body and your car. You fly through the space between your seat and your steering wheel/dashboard/windshield at the speed you were driving, and that stuff stops you. When you wear a seat belt, that time is extended for your body, as your seat belt slows the time it takes you to travel from your sitting position to the steering wheel. That tiny bit of time has a huge effect on the force you experience.

If you drive straight into a concrete wall at 35 mph while wearing your seat belt, you will experience about 40 Gs. It’ll hurt, but you’ll likely survive. We know this partly due to research done in the 1940s, when Air Force doctor John Stapp built a rocket-powered sled to test the effects of G-force on the body. Dr. Stapp was his own test subject; in his 16 runs he suffered multiple injuries, including broken bones, and on his most dramatic (and final) run when he decelerated at 46 Gs, temporary blindness.

Take away the seat belt, and that same crash generates, according to nerds who make physics calculators, about 200 Gs. This is why your suggestion that seat

belt use increases medical costs is severely flawed. Eliminating seat belts just shifts serious injuries (and costly medical services) to lower speed crashes. You’re also reducing the speed at which people are likely to die. I guess you’re right that there won’t be medical costs for the people who die, but many of those low-speed crashes that buckled drivers walk away from would become serious injury crashes. The end result of your thought experiment (and I use the term ‘thought’ loosely here) is a probable increase in serious injury crashes and a dramatic increase in fatalities.

The takeaway here, besides avoiding roads with concrete walls on them, is that seat belts save lives; more lives than any other vehicle technology Ninety-four percent of us agree and wear our seat belts.

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

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Beware, shallow waters lurk there: A boater’s guide to safely navigating Semiahmoo Bay

B y r an D all p arten

There is a saying: “From the helm, water that is 600 feet deep looks no different than water that is 6 inches deep.” Approaching the marina entrances in our picturesque Semiahmoo Bay, shallow water lurks in areas you might not expect. This treacherous area is indeed marked, but it happens to be marked in a way that, ironically, may lure a boater toward having a problem rather than warn them away. The red marker out in the water on the pilings at the end of the Semiahmoo Spit is often confused for a channel marker. It’s not. It’s a land marker.

If you are “returning” to a harbor from open water, the rule is to keep red channel markers to the right side of your vessel: Red, right, returning. Most boaters are familiar with this rule. If you follow this rule and approach any properly marked harbor keeping the red floating buoys (channel markers) always to your right, and green floating buoys to your left – you can be confident that there is enough water to safely navigate any recreational vessel. But again, the red marker at the end of Semiahmoo Spit is not a channel marker, it’s a land marker and it’s some distance away from the actual safe navigation channel.

History tells us why.

At one time, the Semiahmoo Bay and Drayton Harbor area was a bustling commercial port.

In 1882, what was to eventually become the world’s largest salmon cannery began operations at the end of the Semiahmoo Spit. In addition to the cannery, there were several sawmills in operation inside Drayton Harbor. With this level of commercial traffic in and out, concerned citizens lobbied for, and eventually received, a lighthouse toward the end of the Semiahmoo Spit. These significant lighthouse structures stood watch there from 1905-1944. Having lighthouse buildings over that area of water made it fairly obvious that this area was not the navigable channel.

Fast forward to today. What replaced the lighthouse, in the same location, is technically called a “light,” or a “day beacon.” Because this day beacon is red, it is understandably easy to confuse it with a channel marker. It is not. A land marker (beacon) is red and triangular in shape, whereas channel markers are large red or green floating buoys. Being on the (seaward) side of our red Semiahmoo light/day beacon does not guarantee that you are in deep enough water. It may look like it could be 600 feet deep,

but it may very well be six inches deep anywhere near it. The giveaway is that the Semiahmoo day beacon is built on pilings; pilings that are in the ground not far under the water’s surface. Alas, at times there is no water there at all.

At low tide levels, there is exposed land well on the seaward side of the Semiahmoo beacon. The navigable channel is actually many yards farther seaward of the beacon. One should always steer well-clear of the beacon. The proper course when headed seaward is to steer toward the green channel marker, keeping it on your right side, and from there navigate to the red floating nun buoy farther out in the bay, keeping it on your left. And reverse this course when returning to the harbor. Always keep in mind that channel markers are floating, they aren’t on pilings.

Our Semiahmoo Spit shoreline is beautiful and interesting, but don’t let the beacon beckon you too close. Navigate only by floating buoys and you’ll avoid having lunch on the beach, in your boat, tilted sideways, while you wait for the tide to come in.

Captain Randall Parten owns and operates the Dream Boat Company in Blaine and will provide marine towing services for those boaters who miss this article.

s The Semiahmoo Lighthouse (1905-1944).

Photo taken by Elias Breidford in 1944/courtesy of Whatcom Museum

s The land marker at the end of Semiahmoo Spit replaces where the Semiahmoo Lighthouse previously stood. The land marker is often confused as a channel marker. Photo courtesy Randall Parten