The Northern Light: June 8-14, 2023

A Blaine motorcyclist is being treated at the hospital for injuries sustained in a car accident at Blaine and Anderson roads on the afternoon of June 6.

The driver of a gray 1998 Ford F150 failed to stop at a stop sign as he turned from the eastbound lane of Anderson Road onto Blaine Road around 3 p.m. June 6, according to a Washington State Patrol (WSP) release. The truck hit the front of a black 2004 Harley Davidson motorcycle driving southbound on Blaine Road. The motorcyclist came to rest on the truck’s hood, with both vehicles blocking the intersection.

The motorcyclist, 58, was transported to St. Joseph’s Medical Center in Bellingham. PeaceHealth spokesperson Beverly Mayhew said the patient was in critical condition as of June 7.

Though both vehicles were totaled, the WSP memo showed the truck’s driver and passenger were wearing seatbelts and unharmed. No drugs or alcohol were involved in the accident, according to WSP.

WSP trooper Kelsey Harding said in an email that the truck’s driver will be cited for the cause of the collision because he failed to stop at the stop sign.

Harding said it was unlikely that the driver would face criminal charges because he was not impaired nor driving recklessly. Harding said failing to stop at a stop sign is negligent but reckless driving would require more unsafe driving behavior that

Blaine school board candidate, former camp director arrested on suspicion of child abuse

Records filed June 5 in Whatcom County Superior Court provide more detail on a Blaine school board candidate who was arrested on suspicion of child rape, assault and possession of a controlled substance.

Tana Perkins Reneau, 51, was booked into Whatcom County Jail on June 2 on charges of child rape in the first, second and third degrees; four counts of assault of a child in the second degree; and possession of a controlled substance, Whatcom County Sheriff’s

Office (WCSO) spokesperson Deb Slater wrote in an email to The Northern Light.

Slater stated that Child Protective Services reported the child abuse to WCSO on May 19.

According to the affidavit of probable cause (APC) filed in Whatcom County Superior Court, four children, ages seven to 14 who were known to Reneau, reported they had been physically and sexually abused by Reneau as punishment.

The children also told investigators that Reneau called them racial slurs, accord -

City council presented with more affordable downtown revitalization project

Blaine is expected to receive downtown improvements but possibly not to the extent once planned.

Blaine City Council is reviewing a more affordable version of the downtown revitalization project it was presented last fall, after asking city staff to slim the multi-million dollar project in light of an anticipated $1 million shortfall in the city’s general fund.

The project is aimed to beautify downtown Blaine through improvements such as streetscaping and a newly designed Martin Street parklet, all of which city staff hopes will grow tourism and economic development. Improving ADA accessibility will also be a large project component.

Council was presented the revised project during its May 22 meeting and the Blaine Public Works Department has solicited project bids. Interim public works

director Gary McSpadden said after the meeting that he didn’t have an estimate on how much money the revised project would save.

Last September, council was asked to vote on a $620,000 engineering design contract with Seattle-based KPG Psomas for the project, which was initially estimated to be $2.83 million. The project was

ing to court documents.

During an interview at Brigid Collins Family Support Center, the children reported that Reneau sexually assaulted them. One child was sexually assaulted as punishment for perceived stealing and another child was sexually assaulted after being beaten, according to the APC.

Court records show the physical abuse included Reneau forcing some of the children to sleep nude in the shower, pinching

(See Reneau, page 2)

s Whatcom County Public Works Department employees installed two stop signs at the intersection of Birch Bay Drive and Birch Point Road on June 6 despite Birch Bay residents having voiced strong opposition to the signs earlier this year. The signs were put up for southbound traffic exiting the new Horizon development on Birch Point Road and westbound traffic on Birch Bay Drive, at the top of the curve near the intersection. Eastbound traffic on Birch Bay Drive will have the right-of-way.

Photo by Ruth Lauman

From page 1

them or pulling their hair until they bled, and striking them with hard objects including an electrical cord and shovel.

A Brigid Collins nurse discovered scarring and marks consistent with abuse after conducting a medical examination on the children. The nurse found two children with chipped teeth, a linear scar consistent with being whipped by a cord and gouges inside of a child’s mouth, according to court records.

WCSO deputies found a vial of gabapentin prescription pills on Reneau when she was arrested, according to the APC, and Reneau told deputies that the pills were her son’s prescription. Gabapentin is used to treat seizures and pain from shingles and is a Schedule V controlled substance, which the

National Institutes of Health classifies as being the least likely controlled substances to be abused.

As of June 7, Whatcom County Jail records show Reneau was being held in lieu of $500,000 bail.

Reneau is the mother of at least six children, four of whom were adopted through the foster care system, according to a 2017 Young Life biography.

Reneau filed to run against two other candidates in the August primary for the Blaine school board district 2 seat that represents east Blaine and south of downtown. She previously ran for Blaine school board in 2019 but lost.

Reneau has been suspended without pay from her position as director of Lions Camp Horizon, a Birch Bay camp for people with developmental and physical disabilities. The Camp Horizon Foundation has appointed an interim director.

“[Reneau] has been suspended without pay pending resolution of these matters in a court of law and has no engagement in camp matters during her suspension,” wrote Camp Horizon Foundation president Don Webster in an email.

Reneau had worked as camp di-

rector since March 2022, according to a Lynden Lions Club newsletter

In May 2021, Reneau founded the Better Buttermint Co., which employs people with developmental disabilities to make buttermints that are sold locally.

Reneau has been involved with North Whatcom Young Life, a religious organization for students, and its branch for teen moms, North Whatcom YoungLives. She worked as a principal and teacher in Kennewick before she moved to Blaine in 2011, according to previous reporting from The Northern Light.

If you or someone you know is affected by domestic or sexual violence, the Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault Services (DVSAS) 24-hour hotline is available at 360/715-1563 or 877/715-1563.

Brigid Collins Family Support Center, a Bellingham-based nonprofit working to end child abuse, can be reached at 360/734-4616 and brigidcollins.org.

Lummi Victims of Crime has a 24-hour helpline at 360/312-2015. The National Domestic Violence Helpline operates a chat line at thehotline.org/help.

County stage one burn ban goes into effect June 9

Due to the warm weather conditions ahead and decreasing fuel moisture levels, the Whatcom County Fire Marshal’s Office will be enacting restrictions on open burning in unincorporated Whatcom County starting at 8 a.m. Friday, June 9.

Land clearing and yard debris burning must be discontinued at that time and all issued burn permits are suspended.

Recreational fires will still be allowed with the landowner’s permission. Recreational fires must meet the following requirements:

• Must only contain seasoned firewood or charcoal;

• Must be contained in an enclosure no larger than 3 feet by 3 feet across, and must be a minimum of 16 inches high, made of cement blocks, stones or steel;

• Beach fires (where allowed) can be dug into an 8-inch deep pit, surrounded by 4-inch high enclosure of rocks;

• Fires must be 25 feet from structures, timber and combustible materials;

• A charged garden hose or two 5-gallon buckets full of water to be next to the fire;

• A shovel or rake capable of stirring and extinguishing the fire to be on-site;

• Recreational fires are allowed after dark, if attended by someone 16 years or older at all times;

• Fires must be attended until out cold;

• No burning when winds exceed 7 mph.

Violations of these burn restrictions may result in a minimum $250 fine. In addition, if you have a fire that escapes or needs to be extinguished by the fire department, you may be held financially responsible for fire suppression costs, as well as be criminally charged.

(See Burn ban, page 4)

H Street traffic revision near Burger King draws criticism

A new H Street traffic revision barring vehicles from turning left into Burger King has been met with pushback.

Burger King employee Suzanne Dinkel said the fast food franchise wasn’t given notice that a C curve was installed on H Street in early May, just as McDonald’s was opening across the street. The C curve stops vehicles in the eastbound lane of H Street, such as trucks and other travelers coming from SR-543, from turning left into the Burger King parking lot. Instead, vehicles now need to turn left on 14th Street and drive around the Chevron gas station to get into the Burger King parking lot.

Downtown ...

From page 1

fully funded but councilmembers repeatedly pushed voting on it as they considered using some of the project’s allocated money for more urgent needs while the city faced a tight 2023 budget.

The revised project cuts the G Street pavilion, which council had previously allocated $118,000 of its federal Covid-19 stimulus toward.

“Some of the things like the pavilion that would be nice to have but are what I’m going to call ‘general, general’ fund dollars are out of the project,” city manager Michael Harmon said during the council meeting.

The revised project will now include underground utility maintenance that McSpadden said is a higher priority than the aesthetic improvements. The city will replace a sewer main from the former Rustic Fork Eatery to Edaleen Dairy and a water main on Peace Portal Drive, from south of G Street to Clark Street.

The revised project will still include streetscape improvements to five blocks of Peace Portal Drive, from Clark Street to Marine Drive. Improvements could include flower planters, bike racks, outdoor seating, signage, landscaping and planted trees. The project would also design the bases and power conduits of gateway arches at the entrance of downtown.

The revised project will remain focused on safety issues and ADA improvements such as replacing aging sidewalk sections. Trees that are buckling the sidewalk would also be removed.

A small park that is at the end of Martin Street and next to Chada Thai restaurant will still get improvements under the new project. The city will consider removing or limiting vehicle access and improving park usability. The city has a completed parklet concept plan that shows a lawn area and play area surrounded by pavement, seating and an outdoor dining area.

Construction would likely begin in 2025, McSpadden said during the meeting, which is a year delayed from the original plan.

Public works interim director Gary McSpadden said the revision was included in the traffic study for the Blaine Retail development across H Street. McSpadden said drivers were dangerously crossing three westbound lanes on H Street to enter the Burger King parking lot, which goes against Department of Transportation standards.

“It’s way too close to that intersection to have a left turn crossing three lanes of traffic without any proper turn lane,” McSpadden said. “That’s the whole focus of taking it down to the proper turn lane.”

McSpadden said the C curve was installed, in part, in anticipa-

Private Country Estate

tion of more traffic on H Street. He added there weren’t many options as an alternative to the C curve.

Dinkel expressed concern to Blaine City Council during its May 22 meeting that Burger King was unaware of the traffic revision and it has significantly impacted business. Dinkel said she understood public works was understaffed but asked the city to improve its communication with the public.

“It was a shock to me and a lot of my customers who come in are not happy about it,” Dinkel said. “I’m here to tell you it’s not a very welcomed thing because you’re (See Traffic, page 5)

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Live Entertainment

THURSDAY, JUNE 8 • 7 PM

GENERAL KNOWLEDGE TRIVIA

FRIDAY, JUNE 9 • 7 PM

LIVE MUSIC WITH CHUCK DINGEE & CARR JOHNSON

THURSDAY, JUNE 15 • 7 PM

GENERAL KNOWLEDGE TRIVIA

FRIDAY, JUNE 16 • 7 PM

LIVE MUSIC WITH RT COLLECTIVE

THURSDAY, JUNE 22 • 7 PM

GENERAL KNOWLEDGE TRIVIA

FRIDAY, JUNE 23 • 7 PM

LIVE MUSIC WITH TRIO SUEÑO

THURSDAY, JUNE 29 • 7 PM

GENERAL KNOWLEDGE TRIVIA

FRIDAY, JUNE 30 • 7 PM

LIVE MUSIC WITH ADRIAN CLARKE

TUESDAY, JULY 4 • 12-8 PM JULY 4 EXTRAVAGANZA! RESERVATIONS ENCOURAGED

Donations

s A proposed design plan for the Martin Street parklet. Improvements to the small park next to Chada Thai would be included in the revised downtown revitalization plan that Blaine City Council is considering. Image courtesy city of Blaine

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

Susan Diemont-Conwell

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

Tel: 360/332-1777

Vol XXVIII, No 51

Circulation: 10,500 copies

Circulation Independently verified by:

Next issue: June 15

Ads due: June 9

Peace Arch Montessori students turn the tassel OpiniOn Letters

s Peace Arch Montessori students graduated from preschool on June 3, marking a significant milestone in their childhoods. The Montessori, at 549 Cherry Street, is accepting children up to 5 years old for the 2023-24 school year.

The Editor:

True, not all guns are military grade.

General and former President Dwight D. Eisenhower said in 1953, “Every gun that is made, every warship launched, every rocket fired signifies a theft from those who hunger and are not fed, those who are cold and not clothed. This world in arms is not spending money alone. It is spending the sweat of laborers, the genius of its scientists, the hopes of its children. ...”

In “The Original Intent of the Second Amendment,” published in 2009 at Oklahoma State University, Jeffrey P. Campbell states, “Perhaps the Constitution’s greatest quality lies in its ability to mean different things to different people. Whether the framers intended the document to be ambiguous or not, the vague wording of the Constitution ensured it would remain relevant for centuries ...” The current political controversy surrounding gun culture in the United States is that gun rights advocates largely ignore the clause before the comma (well regulated militia), and focus on private citizens’ rights to bear arms.

Our Constitution is a living document written by men who could not conceive of today’s modern weapons.

In my opinion, guns that obliterate any creature smaller than a rabbit but too dull to penetrate the hide of a deer are not good for anything but target practice, in-

timidation and piercing human flesh. Too bad modern weapons are also great for targeting shoppers, school kids and park, church and concertgoers. We must license and regulate those who bear such arms.

Donna Starr Blaine

The Editor:

PeaceHealth is reportedly closing their outpatient palliative care program because it isn’t profitable. Donors to that program who were promised that it would be sustained must be furious.

Health care and profit are simply not compatible. Like all human services, including education, the programs should not depend on their capacity to make money as though that is the reason for having them. Capitalism and health care make rotten bedfellows.

The reason for having the palliative care program is to serve the community, plain and simple. An outpatient palliative care program helps people with no hope of recovery to be in their own homes. It also helps family members and other caregivers to manage the challenging experience of accompanying a close relative or friend as they move toward their death in peace at home, in a manner of their own choosing.

I urge all donors to PeaceHealth to cancel their donations to let PeaceHealth

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.

know that they can’t renege on promises they made to sustain the outpatient palliative care program. Palliative care, both outpatient and inpatient, is essential health care. PeaceHealth needs to step up and acknowledge that fact.

Lucy Morse Ferndale

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

Burn ban ...

From page 2

People who own or are visiting property that is fire protected by Washington State Department of Natural Resources (DNR), federal parks or forest agency must contact those organizations about outdoor burning restrictions.

If you have any questions on open burning in unincorporated Whatcom County, contact the Whatcom County Fire Marshal’s Office at 360/778-5900 or visit whatcomcounty.us/ firemarshal. People must phone the outdoor burning information line, 360/778-5903, every time they burn in Whatcom County.

Courtesy Whatcom County Fire Marshal’s Office

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.

Photos courtesy Chel Hafich

Shintaffer Road work anticipated to start June 12

Birch Bay Water and Sewer District (BBWSD) is expected to replace a water main on Shintaffer Road starting Monday, June 12. The project, which will take about 2.5 weeks, only allows for local traffic during construction work.

The project will install 1,200 feet of 8-inch waterline to the Lincoln Road water main, extend

Traffic ...

From page 3

changing the way things have been done for 30 years.”

Dinkel said after the meeting that she’s seen trucks attempt to turn into the old H Street entrance and then back into traffic to correct the mistake. She said drivers have missed the C curve because it’s low and there’s no signage no-

water lines to existing services and extend water lines to two new water service installations, according to a June 6 BBWSD release. Workers will install two fire hydrants and improve the road surface of the lane impacted by the water main installation. Driveways, culverts and shoulders will also be restored.

tifying people of the change.

“It surprised the tires of my car. I freaking hate it but apparently it must be best practices,” councilmember Richard May said during the meeting.

Dinkel said she was concerned Burger King employees would be financially impacted as they’re now taking turns going home early.

CITY OF BLAINE NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING

Six-Year Transportation Improvement Program 2024 – 2029

Notice is hereby given that the Blaine City Council will conduct a public hearing on the proposed Six Year Transportation Improvement Program (TIP) 2024-2029 on Monday, June 12, 2023, at 6:00pm, and June 26, 2023, at 6:00pm. Both public hearings will occur in the Council Chambers at Blaine City Hall, 435 Martin Street. The public hearing will also be held virtually via Zoom. Information on how to “attend” the City Council meeting virtually will be included on the agenda. If the location of the public hearing changes, it will be notified on the City Council meeting agenda. The agenda can be found on the City’s website on the Friday prior to the meeting. Projects being considered for inclusion in this proposed program* are as follows:

Boblett Street Channelization & Corridor Improvements*

Peace Portal – SR548 Grade Separation*

Downtown Revitalization*

Peace Portal Alley*

ADA Transition Plan*

Peace Portal Community Trail, Phase 3*

Yew Avenue*

City-Wide Pavement Preservation (Annual Program)*

Bi-Annual Sidewalk Safety Program *

D Street Improvements (A)*

*Represents projects with full or partial funding.

Accident ...

From page 1

“We feel really picked on, at least all of us as crew members,” she said. disregards other’s safety.

The truck’s driver was booked into Whatcom County Jail after the accident on a warrant for arrest, Harding said. As of June 7, the driver remains in jail without bail set for possession of stolen property in the second-degree, theft in the second-degree and ID theft in the first-degree, according

Whatcom County students recognized in higher ed

Several Blaine and Whatcom County residents pursuing higher education have been recognized for their academic achievements.

Blaine resident Rayanne Mutchler earned a spot on the University of Jamestown’s spring 2023 dean’s list for a GPA of 3.0 or higher. The University of Jamestown is a private university of about 1,300 students in Jamestown, North Dakota.

Blaine resident Peter Valum earned a spot on Spokane Falls Community College’s winter 2023 honor roll for a GPA of 3.0 or higher. Spokane Falls has about 34,000 students enrolled per year.

Lummi tribal member Jason Finkbonner has earned his doctor of medicine from the University of Washington School of Medicine, making him the second member of the Lummi Nation to earn a M.D. Finkbonner previously worked at Semiahmoo Resort and is a graduate of Ferndale High School, Whatcom Community College and Western Washington University. Finkbonner completed the University of Washington’s Indian Health Pathway and will start specialist training with UW’s psychiatry residency, with the aspiration of returning to Whatcom County to practice medicine.

to jail data. Under Washington state law, second-degree possession of stolen property means the property value was over $750 and second-degree theft means the property value was between $750 and $5,000.

All interested citizens are encouraged to appear and be heard or submit written comments regarding this proposal. Written comments should be sent to CityCouncil@cityofblaine.com. Written communication must be received by 3:30pm on June 26, 2023, for it to be included in the record. Additional information is available from the Blaine Public Works Department at 1200 Yew Avenue, or by telephone at 360-332-8820. Blaine City Hall is an accessible facility. Anyone wishing to attend and participate who may need special accommodation to do so should contact the City Clerk’s office no later than 72 hours prior to the scheduled hearing.

Samuel Crawford, Deputy City Manager/City Clerk

Whatcom Council on Aging lunches offer great food, new friendships

B y S u S an

D ie M ont - c onwell

There aren’t many restaurants where you can drop in for lunch and take in a lesson on astrophysics. But then, that’s the beauty of Whatcom Council on Aging’s senior community meals program. Lunch conversations are one of a kind.

“Just at this one table, we have a retired engineer, educator, realtor, draftsman, private investigator and hospitality professional. People come from all walks of life to share a meal together,” Linda Fossen said.

For more than 40 years, seniors have been enjoying home-cooked meals and engaging conversations at senior centers across Whatcom County and San Juan County.

“We welcome all those 60 years and older to dine with us at one of our senior center locations,” said Chris Orr, executive director of the Whatcom Council on Aging.

Critical need for socialization

While the universe may be expanding, life collapsed to the size of our homes during the Covid-19

pandemic. In response, Whatcom Council on Aging was forced to suspend in-person community meals, instead providing to-go meals from its senior center locations.

“The pandemic highlighted the critical need we all have for socialization and in particular for our senior population,” Orr said.

Ian Cassinos, food services manager of the senior community meals program, said research strongly links poor nutrition and social isolation in older adults with an increased risk of chronic disease and physical and cognitive impairments.

Serving such a vulnerable population, the nonprofit slowly and cautiously reopened, resuming its meals program in June 2022.

“At first we were scared to come back, but it only took a day to feel comfortable,” Gilbert Pompa said. “Now, if we’re in town, there’s not a day we miss.”

A break from cooking

For Sam Cheung, lunches provide a delicious meal and engaging conversation while being a great motivator to get

him out of the house.

“I live alone now. I can enjoy a meal, visit with friends, and I don’t have to cook,” Cheung said. Pompa echoed that sentiment.

“You’re not sitting at home, lonely, in front of the TV,” Pompa said. “You meet people from diverse backgrounds who have amazing insights and stories to share.”

Cheung said he felt like he was part of a community with friendly and down-to-earth people. Lifting the mind and spirit

When Tom Horton moved to Bellingham six months ago, one of his first priorities was to get to know people. He decided to serve as a lunch volunteer at the Bellingham Senior Activity Center.

“For a long time, I was in denial about being a senior,” the 73-yearold muses. “I think it’s something we all have to come to terms with at some point in our lives.”

Horton discovered that being a senior and volunteering at the center opened a new world for him.

“Most of the people here are just like you,” he said. “I’ve lived in a lot of different places in my life; there’s a lack of pretense and entitlement in Bellingham. The senior community is super friendly.”

Mei Sie said she has met many interesting people while working as a volunteer.

“During my career, I worked (See Seniors, page 11)

Let’s talk about it! Planning your legacy and healthcare before something happens can give peace of mind for you & your loved ones. Representatives from organizations and businesses to help with your planning will be

to assist you and answer questions.

June 21

Consilium Financial is hosting a discussion on retirement at Bellingham Golf and Country Club 5:30-8 p.m. Wednesday, June 21.

The event will be free and educate people 45 years or older on Social Security, estate planning, long-term care and planning a family meeting.

To register, visit consilium-financial.com/events.

Bellingham Golf and Country Club is located at 3729 Meridian Street in Bellingham.

s There’s always room at the table at senior centers across Whatcom County. Shown from left, Mei Sie, Sam Cheung, Gilbert Pompa and Linda Fossen. Photo by Susan Diemont-Conwell

BLAINE HIGH SCHOOL Congratulations Class of 2023

“The

Roger

Joaquin Alejandre Brace Armstrong

Josh Audette Alyssa Bacon

Divas Bal Joel Barrientos-Estrada

Kolby Boyer Micah Brandt Will Brasfield Brielle Bridges Monika Brooks-Delgado Grant Calder

Alex Censale Rahul Chandran

Camden Clark Naomi Cline Noah Cook Lawrence Creasey-Pulphus

Carter Davies-Jorgensen Logan Davis Sophia Delligatti Aiden Dement Shyanne Deming Ashton Dominick

Hailey Beaver

Liam Callow

Ava Curtright

Tyler Durkin

Karlyann Adams

Mark Ageyev

Hannah Nyland Kamara Ostos

Milo Pangilinan Om Patel

Piper Nissen

Timothy Pomeroy Antonia Quinto Nathan Rahm

Alessandro Rangel Gillian Rea

Mayako Pereira Ryker Reneau

Kali Macleod Christoher Mangione

Adrian Marquez Ryder May Fabian Mendoza-Moreno

Jenica Lungu

Kathren Kiryukhin Landon Klander

Ethan Koreski Hailey Larsson Sylvie Lausier

Vance Hoptowit Svenna Hrutfiord Julia Hubbard-Maxey

Damian Jackson

Lauryn

Byanca Holguin

Dean Goltz

Anthony Hirsch

Connor Evans Kael Evinger Christopher Foster Madeleine Ernst London Egan

Borderites Class of 2023

CONGRATS

CLASS OF 2023

Tim, Congratulations on your graduation. We are so very proud of you and we can't wait to see how far you go in your future endeavors. Love, Mom & Dad.

Proud to celebrate this year’s graduating seniors. Congratulations on reaching this milestone and we wish you the very best on your next adventure. Good luck!

Part of this community since 1954

Congratulations Class

2023 2677 Bell Rd. • 360-332-5335

Oh, the places you’ll play!

Congratulations Class of 2023

Festival July 9-15 www.blaineharbormusicfestival.org

Congratulations Maddy!

We’re so proud of you and love you! We can’t wait to see what your next adventure brings!

Love, Mom, Dad & Aiden

Ryder, Congratulations buddy!

We are so proud of you! It has been an amazing experience watching you grow up and we can't wait to see you spread your wings and become the person you are meant to be!

All our love, Mom, Dad, Kiera, Grandma Lori and G'ma

Jenica,

We are so proud and love you so much! Keep shining - we can’t wait to see you accomplish all of your dreams!

Love, Mom & Dad

Tyken Morris

Devin Green Armandeep Grewal Anika Hagen Brooklyn Henderson

Tori Henry

Prabhsimranjot Kaur Sukhveer Kaur

Jesus Lazo-Ramos Carson Lehnert Leianne Luciano

Jakob Karhinen

Robert Mott-Prado

Emma Pettit Shelby Pettit David Pierson

David Polverari

Shaylee Renskers Simon Rivas Kristina Roby

Justin Pluschakov Jake Roybal

Samantha Lunde

Baleigh Meyer Kyle Miller Owen Millsap

Justice Joy

Arleth Lazo-Ramos

Madelyn Jakubauskas

Richard Ruiz

Anthony Walker-Colboch

Jack Walker

Sophia Wallace Julian Warner-Troupe

Hope Weeda Glen Whitney

Sawyer Van Kirk

Chance Van Mantgem

Genesis Vazquez

Keile Taylor Ethan Templeton Logan Thiessen

Adia Twitchell

Kenton Stuart

Miah Serrano

Taiya Seymour Shaelyn Shields Lucas Smith Kierstin Soto

McKenzy Seay

Mathew Russ Jack Russell Christopher Schrader

Pele Thornton

Soren Stanley

Aliyah Wilson Devin Witt Lucas Woodell Bailey Wildermuth

Jazmin Young Sydney Young Evellina Yuryev

Jackson Wright Kydon Zaddack

Jacob Voigt

Keller Thornton

Leah Stacy Xiaozhou Yang

Emma-Jean Wydur Gabriel Wylie

S eniors

Seniors ...

From page 6

in the hospitality and medical industries. Day to day, it’s the same backdrop and culture,” Sie said. “But here, it’s a kaleidoscope of human beings. Lunches lift the mind and lift the spirit.”

Nutritionally balanced meals

According to the Alliance on Aging Research, older adults are at an increased risk for malnutrition, in part, because of changing dietary needs and a decline in the body’s ability to absorb nutrients. Chronic conditions like diabetes, cancer and Alzheimer’s disease can reduce appetite, change metabolism and require dietary restrictions.

That’s why the nonprofit’s chef and staff experts in nutrition and food preparation work closely to develop menus that are flavorful, diverse, colorful and nutritionally balanced. Options are available for people with diabetes or who are vegetarian.

“There are so many different flavor profiles than just salt,” said Melody Philips, who serves as lead cook at the Bellingham Senior Activity Center. “We’re always trying

to mix it up, offering international cuisine like Mexican, Thai, Cajun and Indian dishes.”

Best lunch deal in town

With a suggested donation of $5, Fossen believes the senior community meals program is the best lunch deal in town. “The food is magnificent. Melody is a fantastic cook.”

With more than 10 years of experience working with Whatcom Council on Aging, Philips and her team of staff and volunteers prepare close to 250 nutritiously balanced meals every day for senior centers in Blaine, Ferndale and Bellingham, as well as additional meals on different days of the week for centers in Point Roberts, Everson and Sumas.

“Most everything we prepare in our kitchen is homemade, and there’s no one who is more appreciative of my cooking than our

wonderful seniors,” she says. For Senior Community Meals locations, days and times, visit Whatcom Council on Aging at whatcomcoa.org or call 360/733-4030.

Hi, I’m Chuck!

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.

s Blaine Senior Center patrons eat lunch after the meal program returned from the pandemic in June 2022.

Photo by Grace McCarthy

s Lunch volunteer Tom Horton at Bellingham Senior Activity Center.

Photo by Susan Diemont-Conwell

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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.

CLEANING/CAREGIVING

Lucy’s Care & Cleaning. We can help with your needs. 360-8095047. Licensed.

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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: 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.

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.

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:

NEEDED: 2 BD one level house or condo for elderly lady. No pets, non smoker. Joyce 360319-0730.

BPD treats community for National Donut Day

Paul Edward Williams December 6, 1990 – May 23, 2023

Paul Edward Williams, age 32, a long time Blaine resident, was born December 6, 1990 in Jackson Wyoming and passed on Tuesday, May 23, 2023 in Bellingham.

Paul dedicated a lot of his time to working the last ten years for Nature’s Path. When he wasn’t working, he loved to fish, work on little projects to keep him busy, spending time with family and just relaxing at home with his wife and cat, Lee.

Paul is leaving behind his devoted wife Vana; Nana (Emily); father Neal; brothers Jason, Mike and Ryan; aunts, uncles and cousins in Wyoming and Georgia, everyone who knew him in Blaine, and life time friends. Paul was preceded in death by his mother, Kim Williams in 2019; his paternal grandfather, Donald E. Williams in 2001; and his maternal grandmother and grandfather Dolly and Paul Brownfield. In an act true to Paul’s loving, caring, and giving nature, he wished to be an organ donor, an act that we have been told may have extended multiple people’s lives.

There is a plan for a small, intimate memorial. In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to GoFundMe: https://gofund.me/7befe206 or directly to WECU for Sylvana Williams. Please share your thoughts and memories of Paul online at www.sigsfuneralservices.com.

s Blaine Police Department (BPD) celebrated National Donut Day on June 2 by handing out donuts to residents at the police station. BPD officers Jordan Maphumulo, l., and Jeremiah Leland, r,. are pictured on both sides of Tinker Tots Preschool students during the event. Photo courtesy Tami Bhachu

sheriff’s repOrts

May 26, 3:47 p.m.: Request for law enforcement on Selder Drive.

May 26, 4:54 p.m.: Welfare check on Halibut Drive.

May 26, 6:57 p.m.: 911 hangup on Birch Bay Drive.

May 26, 8:04 p.m.: Burglary on Bay Road.

May 26, 10:46 p.m.: Suspicious person on Harborview Road.

May 26, 11:25 p.m.: Motor vehicle accident blocking on Drayton Harbor and Harborview roads.

May 27, 2:09 p.m.: Property lost on Birch Bay tide flats

May 27, 3:33 p.m.: Assault on Semiahmoo Drive.

May 27, 7:11 p.m.: Suspicious circumstances on Koehn Road.

May 27, 9:41 p.m.: Traffic stop on Birch Bay-Lynden Road.

May 27, 10:37 p.m.: Welfare check on Birch Bay-Lynden Road, Custer.

May 28, 9:25 a.m.: Watch for on Birch Point and Selder roads.

May 28, 9:32 a.m.: Request for law enforcement on Semiahmoo Drive.

May 28, 3:57 p.m.: Serve warrant on Pacific Highway. Suspect arrested.

May 28, 5:22 p.m.: Alarm audible on Birch Bay-Lynden Road, Custer.

May 28, 6:27 p.m.: Mental health issue on Windlass Lane.

ACROSS

May 28, 8:22 p.m.: Shots on Bay Road and Halibut Drive.

May 28, 8:29 p.m.: Domestic physical on Birch Bay-Lynden Road.

May 29, 12:02 a.m.: Traffic hazard on Sweet Road.

May 29, 8:56 a.m.: Suspicious vehicle on Behme Road, Custer.

pOLiCe repOrts

May 27, 7:22 p.m.: Domestic physical on Martin Street.

May 28, 4:13 p.m.: Juvenile problem on E Street.

May 29, 9:44 a.m.: Harassment on Bayview Avenue

May 29, 6:12 p.m.: Motor vehicle accident on 12th Street.

May 30, 8:48 a.m.: Domestic physical on Martin Street.

May 30, 9:08 a.m.: Assist agency on H Street.

May 30, 3:48 p.m.: Missing child on Mitchell Avenue.

May 30, 5:39 p.m.: Domestic verbal on Martin Street.

May 30, 8:45 p.m.: Assist agency on 2nd Street.

May 30, 11:18 p.m.: Civil problem on Alder Street.

May 31, 6:36 a.m.: Domestic verbal on Alder Street.

May 31, 9:14 a.m.: Burglary on Cedar Street.

May 31, 10:08 a.m.: Prowler on Peace Portal Drive.

May 31, 10:23 a.m.: Fraud on Adelia Street.

CrOssWOrd

1. In a place to sleep

5. Chemical compound (abbr.)

8. A way to fish

Classic Linklater

Con

55. Nocturnal S. American rodent 56. Liquefied natural gas

57. Afflicted 59. Electronic counter-countermeasures

60. Popular HBO fantasy series (abbr.)

61. Spiritual leader of a Jewish congregation

62. Large body of water

63. __kosh, near Lake Winnebago 64. Impudence DOWN

1. Payroll firm

2. Unit of transmission

3. Rockers Better Than

4. Bambi is one

5. Highest parts of something

6. Correct behavior

7. Batty

8. Cyprinid fishes

9. Expression of sorrow or pity

10. Site of the famous Leaning Tower

12. American rocker Snider

14. W. African language

19. Symbol to mark for removal

23. __ Squad

24. Resident

25. Federal savings bank

26. Paddle

27. Returned material authorization (abbr.)

28. One point south of due east

29. Winter melon

34. Last or greatest in an indefinitely large series

35. Anger

36. Central European river

37. First responders

39. Spanish noble

40. Persons with absence of skin pigment

41. Defunct airline

42. Small island (British)

44. The extent of something from beginning to end 45. Capital of Bangladesh

46. Dutch cheese 47. Imitates

May 31, 10:28 a.m.: Trespass on Peace Portal Drive.

May 31, 12:26 p.m.: Trespass on Peace Portal Drive.

May 31, 1:21 p.m.: Domestic order on H Street.

May 31, 2:51 p.m.: Trespass on D Street.

May 31, 4:42 p.m.: Property found on H Street.

May 31, 6:46 p.m.: Vandalism on D Street.

May 31, 10:58 p.m.: Trespass on H Street.

June 1, 9:03 a.m.: Domestic physical on H Street.

June 1, 9:53 a.m.: Runaway on H Street.

June 1, 11:43 a.m.: Suspicious circumstance on H Street Road.

June 1, 9:41 p.m.: Overdose on E Street.

June 2, 9:18 a.m.: Motor vehicle accident on 14th Street.

June 2, 10:31 a.m.: Shots on Boblett Street.

48. A contest of speed 51. Swiss river 52. Prejudice 53. Actor Idris 54. UNLV’s are Runnin’ 58. Criticize

Whatcom Dream Financial Empowerment Class: Mondays and Thursdays, July 6-20, 6:30-7:30 p.m., CAP Center, 508 G Street, Blaine. Free. Learn financial management skills for a more secure financial future. For more info or to pre-register: 360/296-0441 or kevin@thewhatcomdream. org. Sponsored by the Community Assistance Program.

Financial Empowerment for Teens: Monday–Thursday, July 24-27, 1-2 p.m., CAP Center, 508 G Street, Blaine. Free. Teens learn money management skills for a more secure financial future. For more info or to pre-register: 360/296-0441 or kevin@thewhatcomdream.org. Sponsored by the Community Assistance Program.

World Ocean Day: Thursday, June 8, 3 p.m., meet at BP Heron Center, 7290 Birch Bay Drive. Come celebrate World Ocean Day with Friends of Birch Bay State Park and Garden of the Salish Sea and Blaine-Birch Bay Park and Recreation.

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. Trivia at The Vault: Thursday, June 8, 7 p.m., 277 G Street. Info: thevaultwinebar.com.

Orca Film: Friday, June 9, 7 p.m., BP Heron Center, 7290 Birch Bay Drive.

Showing “A Day in the Life of Lolita, the Performing Orca.”

Live Music at The Vault: Friday, June 9, 7 p.m., 277 G Street. Featuring: Chuck Dingee and Carr Johnson. Info: thevaultwinebar.com.

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.

Hunters of the Sky: Saturday, June 10, 6 p.m., Birch Bay State Park wildlife theater. Learn about raptors with live birds from the Sardis Raptor Center. Free parking.

Haynie Grange Breakfast: Sunday, June 11, 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.

BHS Class of 2027 Glow Up Night: Tuesday, June 13, 6–8 p.m., Blaine High School cafeteria and black box theater (entrance behind Borderite Stadium). Incoming freshmen and their families are invited to come learn about the high school, clubs and culture, plus dance party. Food, prizes and backlights. Info: Blainesd.org.

Flea Market: Saturday, June 17, 10 a.m. – 3 p.m., Free Church Unitarian, 1218 Harrison Avenue. Clothes, books, tools, kitchen wares, new and lightly used. Vendors: $15 per table optional donation. Info: joyceck1@ gmail.com.

Summer Market Series: Saturday, June 24, 10 a.m.– 4 p.m., Home Farm, 8020 Kickerville Road. Handmade and local goods, live music, food, kids activities, farm fun and more. Admission $3, kids 12 and under free. Info: homefarm.farm.

Kite Fest: Saturday, June 24, 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. and Sunday, June 25, 9 a.m.– 3 p.m., Birch Bay State Park. Free kites (while supplies last), kite flying, Paint with Doug, live entertainment by Michael Dayvid, The Springmans and Wren the Juggler, games and crafts, story time, vendors and poker run. Complete schedule of events at birchbaychamber.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.

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.

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.

Weather

Birch Bay Book Club: Wednesday, June 21, 4 p.m., Birch Bay Vogt Library site, 7968 Birch Bay Drive. May title is Anxious People by Fredrik Backman. Info: klia1@mac.com.

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.

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.

Report by Blaine Police Department

Labor market returns to pre-pandemic employment levels

Whatcom County reached a record high unemployment rate of 17.3 percent in April 2020. Three years later, unemployment rates statewide vary from 3 to 4 percent and employment in both Whatcom County and Washington state has seen a full recovery from the Covid-19 pandemic, according to data from the Washington State Employment Security Department (ESD).

As of April 2023, Whatcom County’s preliminary unemployment rate was 3.9 percent, which was nearly a full percentage below last month. The unemployment rate in March 2023 was 4.8 percent.

The county has a total of 116,294 workers and has gained 1,100 nonfarm jobs since before the pandemic.

ESD chief labor economist Anneliese Vance-Sherman said recent reports show a full recovery to the labor market from the pandemic, both locally and statewide. In other words, the number of jobs gained since the pandemic exceeds the number of jobs lost.

“March 2023 is the first month that employment evened out,” Vance-Sherman said.

In March 2020, Whatcom County had 96,600 nonfarm jobs. About 14,500 of those jobs

were eliminated by April 2020 following governor Jay Ins lee’s shutdown order March 23, 2020. Since then, over 15,000 jobs have emerged, surpassing the peak prior to the pandem ic. Whatcom County saw 2,200 jobs added just in the last year, and 5,600 the year before. In total, March 2023 saw a total of 97,000 jobs, and April saw 97,700. These numbers are not seasonally adjusted.

Unemployment claims, which show layoff activity, also remain low, although seeing a bump in the past three weeks in What com County.

During the week of May 14 to May 20, ESD saw 168 initial unemployment claims filed in Whatcom County. In the corre sponding week in 2020, 1,418 claims were filed. For the cor responding week in May 2021, 372 claims were filed. A low of 96 claims were filed during the corresponding week in May 2022, while ESD saw an aver age of 200 claims filed in the weeks leading up to the pandemic in March 2020.

ESD saw similar trends statewide, where 4,647 claims were filed in the week ending May 20. Over 48,000 claims were filed in Washington in the corresponding week in 2020. And 2022 saw the lowest claims filed with 3,519 collected in that corresponding week.