The Northern Light: June 15-21, 2023

Former Port of Bellingham commissioner, Blaine science teacher, fisherman and community leader Jim Jorgensen died June 8. He was 83.

During his 60 years in Blaine, Jorgensen initiated the building of Blaine Marine Park, oversaw Whatcom County development, co-founded a birding festival and taught science to thousands of middle and high schoolers.

Jorgensen was born in Spokane and graduated from Enumclaw High School. He graduated from Western Washington State College with a bachelor’s degree in education.

In 1963, he started teaching at Blaine Middle School. After five years, he moved to Blaine High School where he taught various high school science courses, including geology, ornithology and astronomy, for 25 years.

Jorgensen ran his own salmon charter business during the summer for 40 years out of the Blaine marina. He took former professional golfer Arnold Palmer – who was in town for the dedication of Semiahmoo Golf and Country Club – out in 1987 to catch a 27-pound Chinook salmon. He also taught classes to local fishermen around the same time.

In the same year, Jorgensen proposed the idea to build a park in the area that is now Blaine Marine Park to Blaine City Council. He organized a committee and secured grant funding for its construction.

Jorgensen ran for Port of Bellingham commissioner in 1994 after retiring from teaching. He was elected and served three fouryear terms, where he oversaw Bellingham International Airport’s expansion project and helped secure funding to clean up Bellingham’s waterfront district.

Port executive director Rob Fix said in a statement that Jorgensen’s love for learning and teaching made him a great leader.

“He cared deeply for the environment and served on the commission during a critical time period when generational decisions were being made in Blaine and Bellingham about how to best overcome a legacy of heavy in-

(See Jorgensen, page 3)

Que Onda Fusion Cuisine opens downtown

A restaurant offering a variety of dining options just opened in downtown Blaine.

Que Onda Fusion Cuisine celebrated its grand opening at 442 Peace Portal Drive on June 10. The Northern Light previously reported that Bordertown Mexican Grill co-owners Nelly Santiago and Abi Garcia owned the restaurant.

The restaurant serves breakfast, lunch and dinner from across the world from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. Monday through Saturday, according to a Facebook post from

Bordertown.

A sampling of the breakfast menu includes crepes, a T-bone steak platter, bagel sandwich and sausage burrito. The lunch menu has 20 offerings that include spaghetti, chimichanga, asada fries, pork barbeque, pad Thai, pizza, hot dog, tuna melt, chimichurri sub, potatoes flautas, salmon platter and fish and chips. Que Onda serves beverages, including beer and soda, as well as a few desserts and appetizers.

In January, Santiago and Garcia purchased the former Rustic Fork building

Motorcyclist dies from Birch Bay crash injuries

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A Blaine motorcyclist succumbed to his injuries less than a week after he was hit by a truck whose driver didn’t see him at the intersection of Blaine and Anderson roads in Birch Bay on June 6.

William R. Fleischer, 58, died at St. Joseph Medical Center in Bellingham on June 11, Washington State Patrol (WSP) trooper Kelsey Harding said.

The driver of a gray 1998 Ford F150 failed to yield at a stop sign as he turned

from the eastbound lane of Anderson Road onto northbound Blaine Road around 3 p.m. June 6. The truck hit the front of a black 2004 Harley Davidson motorcycle driving southbound on Blaine Road, according to the WSP report.

WSP initially told The Northern Light in an email that the truck’s driver had failed to stop at the stop sign. However, the WSP investigation found the truck’s driver stopped at the stop sign but failed to see Fleischer. The truck’s driver will receive a ticket for failing to yield, Harding said, adding that

the driver’s actions don’t meet the criteria for a criminal charge of negligent driving.

Fleischer was not wearing a helmet that complied with U.S. Department of Transportation regulations, according to WSP.

The truck’s driver was not impaired and both he and his passenger were unharmed, according to the WSP report. Both vehicles were totaled.

The truck’s driver was booked into Whatcom County Jail on an unrelated warrant after the accident and was released June 7.

to become Que Onda, their first brickand-mortar restaurant. The remodeled space has garage doors at the front of the building that open during nice weather.

In 2016, Santiago and Abi opened Bordertown Mexican Grill as a taco truck under another name in the parking lot of Hill’s Chevron and later moved into Bordertown’s current location between Starbucks and the Blaine Visitor Information Center in 2019. Santiago previously said Bordertown will remain open.

Santiago and Garcia couldn’t be reached by press time.

s Que Onda Fusion Cuisine opened at 442 Peace Portal Drive on June 10. The co-owners of Bordertown Mexican Grill opened the restaurant to offer global cuisine in downtown Blaine, including Mexican, French, Italian and Thai food. Photo by Grace McCarthy

Public comment open for Westman Marine cleanup at Blaine Harbor

B y I an H aupt

With the Westman Marine site in Blaine Harbor slated for cleanup, the Washington State Department of Ecology (DOE) is looking for public input on its cleanup action plan. The public review process began May 22 and ends Wednesday, July 5.

The Port of Bellingham found toxins in the site’s soil and sediment during a 2013-14 investigation and removed 420 tons of contaminated soil during an earlier cleanup. The action plan calls for removing and capping contamination along with moni-

toring conditions and restricting uses. The groundwater remains unaffected, according to DOE.

Westman Marine and other former tenants conducted maintenance and repairs on marine vessels for years at the site, located at 218 McMillan Avenue.

An anti-fouling agent called tributyltin, which is toxic to marine organisms, was used on ships to prevent barnacle and algae growth. Other contaminants include hydrocarbons, biphenyls and assorted metals.

A legal agreement between the port and DOE requires the port to conduct a remedial investigation

and develop a detailed design of the cleanup construction. Washington’s environmental cleanup law, the Model Toxics Control Act, provides requirements for contaminated site cleanup and sets standards to protect human health and the environment, which DOE oversees.

The port began voluntarily sampling sediment in Blaine Harbor in 2001, according to DOE.

DOE spokesperson Ian Fawley said current tenants On-Board Marine Services, a full-service (See Harbor, page 13)

Whatcom County garden tour to feature three Semiahmoo gardens

Three private Semiahmoo gardens will be shown Saturday, June 17 through Whatcom Horticultural Society’s 34th annual garden tour.

Of the six gardens featured in this year’s garden tour, half are in Semiahmoo. Whatcom Horticultural Society member Ganga Engledow said in an email that these three gardens also held a tour during the pandemic to raise funds for the Blaine Food

Jorgensen ...

From page 1

dustrial contamination,” Fix said.

Jorgensen helped to establish the Wings Over Water Northwest Birding Festival, which began in 2003 under the name Washington Brant Festival.

He also spent several decades trying to build a marine education and resource center in Blaine Harbor. He raised $450,000 for the center, according to previous reporting from The Northern Light, but the project never came to fruition and the funding organization folded in 2006. Community organizers are

Bank. The other three gardens are in Ferndale, north Lake Whatcom and Sudden Valley areas.

Tickets are $15 for members and $20 for nonmembers when bought before June 17 and $20 for members and $25 for nonmembers the day of the tour. Children 12 years old and under are free, while entry for children ages 13-18 is $10.

Not all gardens are wheelchair

now trying to revitalize the project and secure grant funding for a feasibility study. In 2016, the Port of Bellingham renamed the pier at the west end of Marine Drive, formerly the Blaine End Pier, after him to honor his 12 years of service to the port and citizens of Whatcom County. Jorgensen also received a lifetime achievement award from the Bellingham Regional Chamber of Commerce in 2019.

“[He] helped give the port commission and port staff the courage to step forward and lead efforts to clean up historic contamination, restore salmon habitat, rebuild our waterfront economy and improve public access to the water,” Fix said.

accessible and some have steep steps, according to the event page. Whatcom Horticultural Society sponsors a variety of events, lectures, tours and publications for Whatcom County area gardeners, according to the society’s website. It was formed in 1989. More information can be found on the society’s website at bit. ly/3CkINKf.

“Jim’s impact as a port commissioner will last forever and he will be missed.”

Jorgensen enjoyed fishing, golfing and hunting – hobbies he had to give up late in life when he was diagnosed with Parkinson’s and post-polio syndrome. He continued to participate in Wings Over Water after his diagnosis.

s Jim Jorgensen.

Courtesy photo

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.

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

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Unofficial Hands Across the Border celebration OpiniOn Letters

s An unofficial Hands Across the Border (HAB) event brought scouts from both sides of the U.S. and Canada border to swap patches and celebrate peaceful cross-border relations under the Peace Arch on June 11. Scouts still showed up for an unofficial celebration despite event organizers announcing that the annual event was canceled last minute due to circumstances beyond their control. The event was the first in-person HAB since the pandemic. Ying Wang, a filmmaker based in Richmond, B.C., filmed the event for a documentary about the park that Wang has been working on since 2021. The first HAB took place in 1937 and drew nearly 2,000 people before the pandemic to participate in scavenger hunts, education projects and a parade each year. Photos by

The Editor:

My family has several reasons to be thankful to PeaceHealth St. Joe’s. Dr. James Douglas and Dr. Don McAfee are two of them.

My dad had congenital heart defects but that didn’t stop him from having a life well lived. Eventually, however, he needed two emergency heart surgeries in a matter of three weeks, which Dr. Douglas skillfully performed.

Dr. McAfee, as my dad’s cardiologist, respected his decision to avoid any future heart surgeries. My parents referred to Dr. McAfee as providing “one-man palliative care.” It worked so well that he was never admitted to the hospital for his congestive heart failure, which is very unusual.

My mom, as a caregiver, delved into the benefits of palliative care. After my dad died, she went full tilt to raise awareness about advance care planning and to encourage PeaceHealth to launch community-based palliative care.

She and many others in Whatcom County worked relentlessly to advocate for outpatient palliative care, successfully. Or so they thought.

I was shocked when she told me PeaceHealth management shut down its outpatient services on this compassionate care model effective May 26.

How can a hospital group – that claims to treat humans with patient-centric, personalized care – justify that decision?

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.

When our dog, Panda, was diagnosed with terminal cancer, my husband and I were fortunate that a palliative care veterinarian was available to help us. He came right to our home. Veterinarians even send cards of comfort and support when a pet dies.

I hope for all the human patients in Whatcom County, PeaceHealth management will have a change of heart.

Kristin Jackson Waynesville, North Carolina

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

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

Blaine Park and Cemetery Board: Second Thursday, 9 a.m., council chambers and virtual meeting. Info: 360/332-8311, ext. 3330.

Blaine School Board: Fourth Monday, 7 p.m., Blaine school district offices. Info: blainesd.org.

North Whatcom Fire & Rescue: Third Thursday, 11 a.m., Station 61 at 9408 Odell Road and via Zoom. Info: nwfrs.net.

Ying Wang and Sheng O

Blaine City Council roundup ...

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The latest news from the June 12 city council meeting … Transportation public hearing

Blaine City Council held a public hearing on the six-year transportation improvement program for 2024-2029. Two members of the public asked questions during the hearing.

The slated transportation improvements include Boblett Street channelization and corridor improvements; signalization at Peace Portal Drive and Bell Road; Semiahmoo Parkway Shoreline Restoration; Peace Portal Drive revitalization; phase three of the Peace Portal Drive community trail from Hughes Avenue to Bell Road; city-wide pavement preservation; bi-annual sidewalk safety program; the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) transition plan development; and D Street improvements from 16th Street to SR-543.

The city will hold a second public hearing on the transportation improvement during its next meeting at 6 p.m. Monday, June 26, remotely and in council chambers, on the fourth floor of city hall at 435 Martin Street.

City hall furnishings

In a 6-0 vote with councilmember Eric Davidson excused, city council unanimously authorized the city to spend $56,300 on furnishings for the city hall’s second floor where Blaine Police Department and public works leaders will relocate in July. The police’s evidence room will also be moved from a shipping container behind the police station to the second floor of city hall. The furnishings include two conference tables and chairs.

Plover restoration contract extension

City council unanimously approved city manager Michael Harmon sign a contract extension for the Plover passenger ferry repairs. The extension will push the now-expired contract’s deadline of March 31 to end August 31.

Alex Wenger, the city’s tourism and economic development coordinator, said during the meeting that the contract extension will not impact the city’s budget. Wenger said about two-thirds of the Plover repair funds have been used and the Plover’s shipwright was working to finish the repairs before the end of summer.

City council previously approved allocating $30,000 for repair expenses in the 2023 budget.

Blaine nonprofit Drayton Harbor Maritime has been in charge of repairs since the U.S. Coast Guard discovered soft spots on the vessel’s wooden hull and stem post last fall. Plover captain Richard Sturgill has previously said that the repairs are more extensive than the original restoration in the mid-’90s.

The Plover is one of the state’s oldest foot passenger ferries operating and transports people from Blaine Harbor to Semiahmoo Spit every summer.

City refunds $200,000

to east Blaine builder

City council unanimously approved refunding just over $200,000 of water general facility fees to a contractor building homes in east Blaine after it was discovered that an old easement agreement exempted the builder from paying those fees.

Council authorized Harmon to refund the money to DJ & DJ Contracting, a Ferndale-based

company building homes in The Ridge at Harbor Hills. Easement documents allowed for a water main to be installed where the subdivision is being built in agreement that water general facility fees would be waived to whomever developed the lots. The city will pay for the refund through public works’ water department reserves.

Harmon said another contractor may be entitled to a refund for building about four homes. He added the city will not charge water general facility fees for the impacted area going forward.

Senior center HVAC replacement

City council unanimously approved city staff to spend another $10,000 on the Blaine Community Center HVAC replacement in addition to the $30,000 currently budgeted.

Council rubber-stamped the increased funds to pay for a $33,100 contract, excluding taxes, with Andgar Mechanical LLC to replace the HVAC system at the community center with two HVAC units.

Gary McSpadden, of public works, said the city had prepared to only replace one HVAC unit but realized after further inspection that the second unit needed to be replaced as well.

McSpadden said the installation will only take a few days and the city will work around the hours of the Blaine chapter of the Boys and Girls Clubs of Whatcom County’s operations in the community center. He added that public works is building a new maintenance system that will be proactive instead of reactive to repairs.

Staff updates

Public works director Harpiar Gandhi attended his first coun-

Blaine woman released on bond

A Blaine woman who was arrested on multiple charges of child rape and assault was released on bond from Whatcom County Jail on June 10.

Tana Perkins Reneau, 51, of Blaine, was booked into Whatcom County Jail on June 2 and later formally charged with first-degree child rape, second-degree child rape, third-degree child rape, three counts of first-degree incest, second-degree assault equivalent to torture and

four counts of second-degree child assault. Reneau was arrested on possession of a controlled substance but prosecutors did not file that charge.

Whatcom County Superior Court commissioner Jonathan Richardson set bail at $500,000 after the state requested $1 million. Court records show Reneau is being represented by public defender Krista van Amerongen.

Van Amerongen didn’t immediately provide a comment.

“We enjoy the paper. Thanks for your hard work.”

Court documents show Reneau was suspected of abusing four children, ages seven to 14, starting in January 2020. Child Protective Services was notified, and the Whatcom County Sheriff’s office started an investigation on May 19.

The court has issued no-contact orders for the four children.

Reneau is a candidate for Blaine school board.

Reneau’s arraignment is scheduled for 8:30 a.m. Friday, June 16.

cil meeting after starting the position June 1. Gandhi previously served as public works director of Clatskanie, Oregon, a city of 1,700 people. He has over two decades of public and private engineering experience.

Blaine police chief Donnell Tanksley said the police department is hiring for three vacancies it’s had since last November. A panel of police officers and civilians interviewed 11 candidates in late May and moved five onto the next round of interviews. Tanksley said he approved three candidates to go through an extensive background check, and during that phase, one officer dropped. Tanksley said candidates are applying to multiple agencies as police departments across the U.S. are understaffed.

Stacie Pratschner, director of the community development services department, said the downtown ad-hoc advisory committee has agreed on downtown zoning recommendations for council that will include parking reductions and increasing building height by 12 feet in each downtown zone. Pratschner is expected to present the downtown zoning recommendations to council at its June 26 meeting.

- Jim Tate Family

Blaine High School Recognition Night 2023

2023 Scholarship Recipients

Abrams Scholarship – Samantha Lunde

Blaine Athletic Booster Club

Scholarship – Rahul Chandran, Carson Lehnert, Shaelyn Shields, Hope Weeda

Blaine Education Association

– Ava Curtright, Amrandeep Grewal, Anika Hagen, Byanca Holguin, Sukhveer Kaur, Samantha Lunde, Julia Hubbard-Maxey, Owen Millsap, Antonia Quinto, Gillian Rea, Keile Taylor, Logan

Thiessen, Adia Twitchell, Hope

Weeda, Glen Whitney

Blaine Fine Arts Association

Scholarship – Damian Jackson, Pele Thornton, Adia Twitchell

Blaine Fisherman Memorial

Scholarship – Glen Whitney

Blaine Food Bank – Ava Curtright, Byanca Holguin, Sylvie Lausier, Samantha Lunde, Owen Milsap, Keile Taylor, Logan Thiessen, Genesis Vazquez, Aliyah Wilson

Blaine Soccer Club Scholarship – Ava Curtright, Alessandro

Rangel, Logan Thiessen

Brad Ambrose Memorial

Scholarship – Carson Lehnert, Gillian Rea

Chapter J (P.E.O.) Scholarship

– Armandeep Grewal

Dennis & Audrey Brown Charitable Trust – Byanca Holguin, Elizabeth Johner, Genesis Vazquez

Liam Lyons Memorial Scholarship – Samantha Lunde, Keile Taylor

Lynden/Ferndale Masonic

Lodge – Elizabeth Johner, Shaelyn

Shields

Norma R. Smith Scholarship –

Rahul Chandran, Leianne Luciano

The Northern Light Scholarship – Samantha Lunde

Semiahmoo Women’s Club –

Armandeep Grewal

Blaine Scholarship Foundation – Rahul Chandran, Ava

Curtright, Maddy Ernst, Devin

Green, Byanca Holguin, Elizabeth Johner, Sukhveer Kaur, Sylvie Lausier, Leianne Luciano, Samantha Lunde, Jenica Lungu, Owen Millsap, Piper Nissen, Shaelyn Shields, Keile Taylor, Pele Thornton, Adia Twitchell, Chance Van Mantgem, Hope

Weeda, Glen Whitney, Aliyah Wilson, Xiaozhou Yang

Trans Ocean Products Scholarship – Sukhveer Kaur

Silent Service Award – Sylvie

Lausier, Hope Weeda

Curt Maberry Farm Scholarship – Shaylee Renskers

Teacher Awards

Teacher: Dan Rucker – Brady

Thiessen (World History), Sukhshaan Khosah (World History), Ruby May (U.S. History), Nicolai Montoure (U.S. History), Jack Streeter (U.S. History), Avery Snow (U.S. History), Isabella Vezzetti (U.S. History), Deja Dube (U.S. History), Glen Whitney (Economics – Outstanding Senior)

Teacher: Christine Banko –Emmy Duke (English 10), Olivia Tanjuaquio (English 9), Tessa Cobb (English 9), Evan Vezzetti (English 9), Colby Shipp (English 10), Kaden Hansen (English 9), Devin Green (Creative Writ-

ing – Outstanding Senior)

Teacher: Neva Beals– Bree Mulryan-McGee (10th grade English Language Arts), Nicolai Montoure (11th grade English Language Arts), Daniel Estrada (World History), Logan Thiessen (Knowledge Bowl – Outstanding Senior)

Teacher: Brian Smith – Malena Hauge (Beginning Art), Isabella Clark (Beginning Art), Alex Sebastian (Beginning Art), Riley Osburn (“Most Inquisitive”), Corey Oldham (Adv. Art), Jazmin Young (Adv. Art – Outstanding Senior)

Teacher: Jamie Alexander –Dylan Johnson (Spanish 1), Blake Goltz (Spanish 2), Blake Koreski (Spanish 2), Isabel Witt (Spanish 2), Clove Hoffpauer (Spanish 1), Taylor Nyland (Spanish 1), Alix Sebastian (Spanish 1), Cameron Saunders (Spanish 3), Hope Weeda (Spanish 4 – Outstanding Senior)

Teacher: Elli Weeks – Sabrina Boczek (AP Biology), Olivia Tanjuaquio (Biomedical Science), Resa Hrutfiord (Biomedical Science), Bea Dickson (Biomedical Science), Jo Stack (Biomedical Science), Tessa Cobb (Biomedical Science), Brie Smith (Human Body Systems), Emmy Duke (Human Body Systems), Tori Taengdaen (Human Body Systems)

Teacher: Natasha Lexin –Dylan Johnson (Biology), Riley Osburn (Biology), Malena Hauge (Biology), Oscar Taylor (Biology), Wade Lottimer (Biology), Zackary Crabtree (Biology), Alyssa Bacon (Earth & Space Science), Jack Streeter (Earth & Space Science), Ella Wannamaker (A.P. Environmental Science), Maddy Ernst (A.P. Environmental Science – Outstanding Senior)

Teacher: Megan Wyllie – Coner Dudley (Physical Science), Allesandro Rangel (Physical Science), Jordan Knight (Physical Science), Jasmine Bautista (Earth and Space Science), Chris Bernard (Earth and Space Science), Corey Oldham (Earth and Space Science), Isabel Witt (Physics), Aliyah Wilson (Physics), Prabhsimranjot Kaur (Physics), Layla Avila (Physical Science), Leianne Luciano (Physics + Earth and

Space – Outstanding Senior)

Teachers: Chelsea Surowiecki, Carissa Scott and Jennifer Robins – Evan Vezzetti (Excellent Advocacy Skills), MariBrooke Hartleben (Excellent Work Ethic and Determination), Lillian Alms (Responsibility), Shaylee Renskers (Advocacy), Jaxon Kabela (Work Ethic), Kamara Ostos (Determination), Naomi Cline (Responsibility), Gracie Renskers (Work Ethic), Joaquin Bushman (Advocacy), Taylee Abshere (Responsibility), Anthony Walker-Colboch (Resource Department – Outstanding Senior)

Teacher: Jay Dodd – Ziyang Yu (Physical Education), Otto Shelton (Physical Education), Merissa Delgado (Physical Education), Meghan Lazarus (Physical Education), Mya Peel (Physical Education)

Teacher: Melissa Tillson –Sydney Young (Bridge to College English), Riley Osburn (English 9), Nathan Rahm (Bridge to College English), Dylan Johnson (English 9), Natalie Baldovinos (World History)

Teacher: Olivia Theilemann –Ruby May (Theatre Arts), Chance VanMantgem (Theatre Arts), Izzy Witt (Theatre Arts), Brooklyn Bouchard (Theatre Arts), Colby Shipp (AVID 10), Rishab Singh (AVID 10), Riley Osburn (AVID 9), Kaden Hansen (AVID 9)

Teacher: Andy Marshall – Pele Thornton (Robert Shaw Choral Award), Megan Rosenburger (Most Improved), Logan Totten (Choral Leadership), Adama Marshall (Choral Leadership), Ava Freeman (Outstanding Junior), Brayden Large (Most Improved), Jacob Licata (Outstanding Freshman), AnnaLisa Marshall (Leadership Award), Jo Stack (Outstanding Freshman), Logan Thiessen (Chamber Choir – Outstanding Senior)

Teacher: Dan Persse – Aliyah Wilson (Best Female Fake TA Award), Kenton Stuart (Best Male Fake TA Award), Jack Russell (Best Persse-onality Award), Ava Curtright (Persse-piration Award), Shaelyn Shields (Persse-averance Award), Gillian

Crabtree (Algebra 1), Skyller Jukes (Algebra 1), Alia Ball (Algebra 2), Cameron Saunders (Algebra 2), Brie Smith (Algebra 2), Isaiah Zuch (Algebra 2)

Teacher: Morgan Gariano – Ailyn Jollet Steffes (Geometry), Resa Hrutfiord (Geometry), Keller Thornton (Bridge to College Math), Sydney Young (Bridge to College Math), Mia Landreth (Algebra 1), Jassy Paez (Algebra 1), Dylan Johnson (Algebra 1), Riley Osburn (Algebra 1), Jo Stack (Algebra 1), Leianne Luciano (Bridge to College Math – Outstanding Senior)

Teacher: Shawna Rouse – Mikayla Radwanski (Intensified Algebra), Tori Taengdaen (Intensified Geometry), Ziyang Yu (Intensified Geometry), Rhys Milligan (Geometry), Oscar Taylor (Geometry)

Rea (Persse-piration Award), Max Yuryev (Persse-onality with best laugh), Josh Audette (Persse-averance Award), Piper Nissen (Persse-piration Award), Dr. Hope Weeda (Sports Med – Sports Med – Outstanding Senior)

Teacher: Nicole Diimmel – Snizhana Karashchuk (Courageous, Resilient, Dedicated), Yosyp Vasyliev (Courageous, Resilient, Dedicated), Sukhveer Kaur (“Rock Star” Courageous, Resilient, Dedicated – Outstanding Senior)

Teacher: Aaron Messenger –Brooklyn Bouchard (Modeling Our World with Mathematics), Isabella Clark (Modeling Our World with Mathematics), Isabel Witt (Modeling Our World with Mathematics)

Teacher: Craig Foster –Maribrooke Hartleben (Fitness Walking), Logan Thiessen (Team Sports), Snizhana Karashchuk (Team Sports)

Teacher: Mike Grambo – Ava Curtright (World Problems), Anika Hagen (World Problems), Hope Weeda (World Problems), Glen Whitney (World Problems), Tyken Morris (World Problems), Timothy Pomeroy (World Problems), Devin Green (World Problems), Emmy Duke (World History), Brie Smith (World History), Shaelyn Shields (World Problems)

Teacher: David Fakkema –Cameron Saunders (US History), Sabrina Boczek (US History), Shaelyn Shields (Civics), Devin Green (Civics), Sylvie Lausier (Psychology), Sukhveer Kaur (Super Citizen), Logan Thiessen (Super Citizen), Sabrina Boczek (ASB/Leadership)

Teacher: Ann Balfour – Malena Hauge (Spanish 1), Wade Lottimer (Spanish 1), Mackenzie Cottnair (Spanish 1), James Apuya Peper (Spanish 2), Emily Bilson (Spanish 2), Soleil Rodriguez (Spanish 2), Neely Thomas (Spanish 2), Kenton Stuart (Spanish for Native Speakers), Arleth Lazo Ramos (Spanish for Native Speakers)

Teacher: Kristen Hayes – Kathleen Michaud (Geometry), Adriana Rivera (Geometry), Zackary

Teacher: Emily Creed – Joshua Bacon (Algebra 2), Makenzie Kirby (Algebra 2), Gracie Witt (Intensified Algebra), Nasa Probert (Intensified Algebra), Lillian Alms (Algebra 1), Paige Dominick (Algebra 1), Bea Dickson (Algebra 1), Evan Shields (Algebra 1)

Teacher: Meghan Galligan –Neely Thomas (Pre-Calculus), Blake Goltz (Pre-Calculus), Colby Shipp (Geometry), Sukhshaan Khosah (Geometry), Colin Davis (Geometry), Josiah Weeda (Geometry), Taylor Nyland (Geometry), Connor Evans (Math in Society), Ruby May (Pre-Calculus), Ava Freeman (Pre-Calculus)

Teacher: Jeff Worthy – Isaiah Zuch (English 10), Shaylie Daniels (English 10), Brie Smith (English 10), London Fletcher (English 10), Soleil Rodriguez (English 10), Mariam Mohd (English 10), Milania Rodriguez (English 101), Sabrina Boczek (English 101), Aliyah Wilson (English 111), Shaelyn Shields (English 111 – Outstanding Senior)

Teacher: Carolyn Fakkema – Milania Rodriguez (Food and Culinary Foundations), Shaden James (Food and Culinary Foundations), Kiera May (Food and Culinary Foundations), Camryn Garcia (Food and Culinary Foundations), Josh Audette (Independent Living), Brady Thiessen (Independent Living), Ryder May (Independent Living), Lucas Smith (Food and Culinary Foundations), Sylvie Lausier (Food and Culinary Foundations, TA –Outstanding Senior)

Teacher: Jeremy Birklid – Cameron Saunders (AP Chemistry), Tanner Karuza (Physical Science), Emmy Duke (Chemistry), Brie Smith (Chemistry), Shawn Waters (Chemistry), Mackenzie Cottnair (Chemistry), Shaanbir Gill (Chemistry), Makenna Lausier (Chemistry), Soleil Rodriguez (Chemistry), Chance Van Mantgem (Chemistry – Outstanding Senior)

Teacher: Edwin Elefson – Nathan Rahm (Metals 2), Jake Roybal (Horticulture), Shaylee Renskers (Metals/Horticulture), Glen Whitney (TA: Metals), Carter Davies-Jorgensen (Metals)

Teacher: Mike Dahl – Nicolai Montoure (Engineering II), Evan Spencer (Engineering I), Jack Walker (Broadcasting), Walker Hennig (Video Productions), Sabrina Boczek (Calculus)

s Blaine High School. File photo

Hall of Fame committee announces 2023 inductees

Two teams and seven individuals will be inducted into the Blaine High School Hall of Fame this year.

The Blaine High School Athletic Booster Club and Hall of Fame committee announced the 2023 inductees for its fourth induction ceremony to be held October 14 in the performing arts center. The teams and individuals will be honored for their achievements and contributions to Blaine High School athletics.

Athletes include Ted Hanson, Mark Halldorson, Heidi Kuttel and Greg Wright.

Gary Clausen will be inducted for his 32 years as head baseball coach. He coached the team to a state championship in 1990 and 11 state championship tournaments. Ted Hanson will be inducted as the distinguished honoree for leading the basketball team to a fifth place finish at state in 1929. He scored a total of 60 points in the tournament and was named to the all-state team.

Jim Jorgensen and Wayne Schouten will be inducted as contributors. Jorgensen formed and coached Blaine’s first boys golf

team. He also worked many years as a scorer for boys basketball and timer for the football team. Schouten coached youth basketball and baseball for many years starting in the ’70s.

The 1998/99 and 1999/00 boys basketball teams will be inducted for their 2A state championships. These winners will be recognized in a special ceremony in the performing arts center 1 p.m. Saturday, October 14. More information about the inductees will be released closer to the day of the ceremony.

BHS athletes sign letters of intent

Fourteen Blaine High School class of 2023 athletes have signed letters of intent to post-secondary sports. Below is a list of those athletes along with the sport and school they will be attending.

Ava Curtright, soccer, Montana State University Billings; Alyssa Bacon, softball, Skagit Valley

College (SVC); Sophia Delligatti, cheer, Linfield University; Carson Lehnert, basketball, Douglas College; Piper Nissen, softball, Edmonds College; Robert Mott Prado, soccer, Whatcom Community College (WCC); Axel Puls, baseball, Everett Community College; Alessandro Rangel,

soccer, WCC; Kristina Roby, soccer, WCC; Mathew Russ, basketball, SVC; Lucas Smith, basketball, Prestige Worldwide Sports Academy; Genesis Vazquez, wrestling, Washington State University; Bailey Wildermuth, cheer, George Fox University; MaKenna Wright, softball, SVC.

Choir, band students compete at state

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s Blaine High School choir and band students competed at the San Juan Music Educators Association State Solo and Ensemble competition at Central Washington University in late April. From l.; London Fletcher, euphonium; Pele Thornton, soprano voice; and Byanca Holguin, flute. Choir director Andy Marshall said all three students received excellent marks and represented Blaine well. Photo courtesy Andy Marshall

Blaine High School Class of 2023

s Blaine High School graduates throw caps into the air in celebration of finishing their high school careers on June 9. Family and friends filled the gymnasium to watch each graduate receive their diploma during the high school’s 117th commencement. Ava Curtright, Sylvie Lausier, Hope Weeda and Keile Taylor gave valedictory speeches and Bailey Wildermuth and Sukhveer Kaur gave salutatory speeches. The graduation can be watched on the Borderites Live YouTube channel, at bit.ly/43D3YDc.

Photos by Ian Haupt

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Evening of the Arts recognizes Blaine High School talents

Blaine High School students’ artistic talents were highlighted during the annual Evening of the Arts on June 1 where art, theater, band and choir students showcased their achievements.

General Art Show

Teacher: Brian Smith

Pen and Ink: 1. Jade Butler-Barros, “Still Life Skull;” 2. McKenzie Cottnair, “Crows & Glass Bathtubs;” 3. Malena Hauge, “Still Life Modified Contour.”

Graphite/Still Life: 1. Brie Smith, “Hands and Grass;” 2. Melana Hauge; 3. Larissa Pluschakov, “Way of Value.”

Crayon/Toys: 1. Isabella Clark, “Scale and Composition;” 2. Adriana Rivera, “Man’s Gone;” 3. Brielle Bridges, “Cogsworth.”

Watercolor-Figurative: 1. Taylee Abshere, “Something that Doesn’t Fit;” 2. Corey Oldham, “City of Lines;” 3. Jack Streeter, “Confusion.”

Portraiture/Charcoal & Pastel:

1. Jade Butler, “Deep Dark;” 2. Isabella Clark, “Myself;” 3. Diljeet Jhutty, “Eternal Disturbance.”

Ceramic/Pinch Pot: 1. Clove Duncan Hoffpower, “Paco the Frog;” 2. Helena MacArthur, “The Vivican;” 3. Felix Hensley, “Dinosaur Egg.”

Ceramic/Masks: 1. Isabella Clark, “Feline;” 2. Tori Henry, “Tlingit Raven;” 3. Mason Akre, “Tiger’s Blood.”

Ceramic Hand Building Slab:

1. Riley Osborn, “Liberty Penny;”

2. Isabella Clark, “Lotsa Fish;” Ella Aamot, “Chicken Trivet.”

Ceramic/Hand Building Coil:

1. Jack Streeter, “Dysfunctional Vase;” 2. Clove Duncan/Hoffpouer, “Omari Vase of Dreams;”

3. Kodi Suart, “Keep the Peace.”

Ceramic/Pottery Wheel: 1. Jack Streeter, “Practical Mug;” 3.

Samual Baldwin, “Collection.”

Glazing/Experimental (Exploring Glaze Characteristics):

1. Tyler Pixley, “Wrahh;” 2. Felix Hensly, “JFZ Bowl;” 3. Taylor Nyland, “Scurvy.”

Glazing/Major (Carefully Planned Design): 1. Isabella Clark, “Kaijus Rage;” 2. Mya Peel, “Boxxx;” 3. Saige Smith, “Red Rock Mountain.”

Glazing/Raku: 1. Felix Hensly, “Cat a Combs;” 2. Aspen Savage, “Yahaya…;” 3. Riley Osburn, “Underland.”

Juror’s Choice: Tara Taylor –Tim Pomeroy, “Johner;” Irene Lawson – Adriana Rivera, “Smiling Canvas;” Paul Berg – Ella Aamot, “Birds in Space;” Diane Berg – Eligha Munoz, “Nature;” Melanie Smith – Taylee Abshere, “MisMatch.”

Senior Displays (Jurors’ Vote):

1.

Best of Show (Jurors’ Vote): Isabella Clark, “Kaiju’s Rage.”

Superintendent’s Choice: Isabella Clark, “Fish.”

Principal’s Choice: Mason Akre, “Big Leagues.”

Teacher’s Choice: Stephen Mullenix, “Pumpkin Cowboy.”

Blaine Fine Arts Association: Sophia Wallace

Most Inspirational (Student Vote): Corey Oldham

Band

Teacher: Bob Gray Wind Ensemble

Co-Director’s Award: Byanca Holguin

Co-Director’s Award: Maddy Ernst

Inspirational Award: Sabrina Boczek

Jazz Band

Director’s Award: Jonathan Morris

Inspirational Award: Damian

Jackson

Concert Band

Director’s Award: Tori Henry

Inspirational Award: Noah Cook

Choir

Teacher: Andy Marshall

Shaw Choral Award/Most Inspirational: Pele Thornton – Soprano (Artistic Dir.)

Outstanding Senior: Logan Thiessen – Bass

Choral Leadership: Addie Marshall – Alto (V.P.)

Choral Leadership: Logan Totten – Tenor (Pres.)

Most Improved: Karl Large – Bass

Outstanding Junior: Ava Freeman – Alto (ASB Liaison)

Rookie of the Year: Justin Ascencio – Tenor

Hi, I’m Chuck!

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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.

Tori Henry; 2. Jazmin Young; 3. Brielle Bridges; Honorable Mention – Aliyah Wilson.

s The Blaine High School Evening of the Arts was held on June 1 in the high school lunchroom and black box theater. Photos by Molly Ernst

s Brielle Bridges received third place in senior displays and third place for “Cogsworth” in the crayon/toys division.

s Band director Bob Gray leads band members during a performance at Evening of the Arts.

s Choir students and director Andy Marshall, c., perform songs for an audience on June 1.

s Jazmin Young received second place in senior displays during the art show.

Help Wanted

EXPERIENCED SEAMSTRESS

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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: JO ANNE DWYER, Deceased. Probate No. 23-4-00498-37. AMENDED NOTICE TO CREDITORS Assigned Judge: Robert E. Olson. The Personal Representative named below has been appointed as personal representative of this estate. Any person having a claim against the decedent must, before the time the claim would be barred by any otherwise applicable statute of limitations, present the claim in the manner as provided in RCW 11.40.070 by serving on or mailing to the personal 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

Legal

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

IN THE SUPERIOR COURT OF THE STATE OF WASHINGTON IN AND FOR THE COUNTY OF Whatcom In Re the Estate of Veronica Naderi, Deceased. NO. 23-4-00277-37. PROBATE NOTICE TO CREDITORS. (RCW 11.40.030) 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 personal representative or the personal representative’s attorney at the address stated below a copy of the claim and filing the original of the claim with the court in which the probate proceedings were commenced. The claim must be presented within the later of: (1) Thirty days after the personal representative served or mailed the notice to the creditor as provided under RCW 11.40.020(1)(c); or (2) four months after the date of first publication of the notice. If the claim is not presented within this time frame, the claim is forever barred, except as otherwise provided in RCW 11.40.051 and 11.40.060. This bar is effective as to claims against both the decedent’s probate and nonprobate assets.

Date of First Publication:

June 15, 2023

Personal Representative:

Jamshied Naderi a.k.a. John Nader PO Box 5011 PMB 115 Ferndale, WA 98248

Attorney for the Personal Representative:

Katti Esp 301 Prospect Street Bellingham, WA 98225

Address for Mailing or Service:

Katti Esp 301 Prospect Street Bellingham, WA 98225 Court of Probate Proceedings Superior Court of Whatcom County and Cause Number: Cause No. 23 4 00277 37

NOTICE TO CREDITORS IN THE SUPERIOR COURT OF THE STATE OF WASHINGTON IN AND FOR THE COUNTY

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

IN THE SUPERIOR COURT OF THE STATE OF WASHINGTON IN AND FOR THE COUNTY OF Whatcom

In Re the Estate of Robert H. Elsner, Deceased. NO. 23-400565-37. PROBATE NOTICE TO CREDITORS. (RCW 11.40.030) JUDGE: Robert E. Olson

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

Date of First Publication: June 15, 2023

Personal Representative: Robert Scott Elsner 610 E. 2nd Street Nooksack, WA 98276

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

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

Court of Probate Proceedings Superior Court of Whatcom County and Cause Number: Cause No. 23-4-00565-37

BLAINE, BIRCH BAY & SEMIAHMOO

7395

Birch Bay Dr

MLS #2076318 $1,700,000

This ONE-OF-A-KIND 4 bdrm 4 bath beachfront home w/real cedar timber walls, original hardwood floors, swimming pool, & spacious patio brings back Birch Bay history of days gone by! Unique features: lrg cozy living room w/stone fireplace, sunroom + dining nook w/amazing views, vaulted cedar ceilings thru-out, French doors & built-ins. Upper level showcases a vaulted primary suite w/skylights, fireplace, plus a milliondollar view. Large walk-in tiled shower.

Randy Weg 360-305-5704

8132 Quinault Road

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 including breakfast bar, bay window, vaulted ceilings.

Matt Berry 360-389-0104

8849 Goldeneye Lane

MLS #2076794 $1,395,000

Exquisite waterfront home on Turnberry Lake/pond gated community. Southern exposure and easy access to walking trails. Quality build, 4055 sq. ft. +/- extensive tile work, custom fir built-ins, & exceptional selections of granite & lighting finishes, natural gas, and central vac. Primary/ensuite on the main floor with sauna. Great room concept with custom quality kitchen and office. Upstairs, there are two private guest ensuites & sizable bonus room above garage. Brian Southwick 360-815-6638

8140 Coquitlam Place

MLS #2065675 $825,000

Fantastic Cul-de-Sac Lakefront home with over 130’ of waterfront. Large sunny patio & expansive lakeside yard on Birch Bay Village’s Thunderbird Lake. Beautifully updated kitchen with open plan taking full advantage of view with large picture windows in Owners suite, Living & Family room. Enjoy Kayaking, bird watching, canoeing & paddle boarding right at your property. Walking distance to miles of inland Pacific beaches & saltwater marina. 24/7 guard gated security.

Lisa Kent 360-594-8034

3157 Creasey Road

MLS #2058804 $565,000

Must see, immaculate triple-wide manufactured home on a spacious lot with stunning southern facing views of the 3rd hole at Grandview Golf Course. Built with quality in mind, evident in every detail, and meticulously maintained. With 9-foot ceilings, the home is bright and airy, featuring a large primary bedroom with en-suite bathroom. Three bedrooms in total, and den that could easily be converted into fourth bedroom. Sale includes all high-quality furniture. Gerry Allen 360-920-0563

2237 Odell Street

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 & services. Jen Freeman 360-815-0803

5572

Chehalis Place

4455 Castlerock Drive

MLS #2073566 $725,000

A real charmer @ The Greens! Exquisite & well cared for home has all main floor living with an upstairs bonus room & wet bar that offers perfect blend of living space, comfort & luxury. Built by exceptional Red Sky Construction, the attention to quality detail shows. 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. Sun exposure. Kathy Stauffer 360-815-4718

7704 Birch Bay Drive #48-9

82

Eliza Island

MLS #2056947 $510,000

A rare chance to own a piece of Eliza Island! Marvel at the high bank waterfront-- featuring a 3 bedroom cabin with exceptional eastern views of sunrises, mountain ranges, and Bellingham Bay, overlooking Chuckanut. The primary loft is a private escape from the rest of the cabin. A striking wood exterior, tongue & groove ceiling & walls, and vaulted ceilings enhance the cabin’s beauty. Enjoy the propane stove, fridge, and solar/battery-powered inverter system. Brandi Coplen 360-201-3951

MLS #2067030

$1,000,000

Beautiful Birch Bay Village custom w/ spectacular unobstructed panoramic view of Birch Bay, Mt. Baker, Cascades, & San Juans. Very high-quality construction & thoughtful, manageable floorplan at 2618 sq. ft. Oversized garage, natural gas furnace/hot water heater, & dual stove with gas burners, wired & heated 10’x16’ shop, impeccable grounds, entertainment sized patio, breathtaking deck facing the Bay. Room for RV & boat w/hookups on concrete drive.

Mike Kent 360-815-3898

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

MLS #2049909 $899,999

Wonderful Lakefront custom home with spectacular water & North Cascade Mountain view in like new condition with 140 feet of waterfront in Birch Bay Village, 3 bedrooms, 2.5 baths, vaulted ceiling in living room with huge picture windows overlooking it all, new kitchen, quartz countertops, custom cabinets, skylights, cozy gas fireplace, 3rd bedroom is a flex room, newer siding, and roof, 2 car garage with carport.

Billy Brown 360-220-7175

Tonya Wahl 541-707-0196

based on race, color, religion, sex, handicap, familial status or national origin, or an intention to make any such preference, limitation or discrimination. This newspaper will not knowingly accept any advertisement for real estate which is in violation of the law. Our readers are hereby informed that all dwellings advertised in this newspaper are available on an equal opportunity basis. To complain of discrimination, call HUD toll-free at 1-800-877-0246.

MLS #2076892 $178,000

Enjoy this masterpiece in the popular beachfront community of Leisure Park. This is the most reasonable vacation property you will find in Birch Bay, from location to amenities & low cost. This peaceful park features a clubhouse, tennis courts, playground, outdoor pool/hot tub, exercise room, & laundry facility. This 420 SF, 1BD, 1 BA includes a spacious loft. This unit is in immaculate shape. The stunning stamped concrete patio, facing west has ample sunlight.

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MLS #2044855 $80,000

Simple, affordable, living close to the ocean!

A five-minute walk to the beach, dining, crabbing, and amazing sunsets. Everything is included in this 1992 Park Model that makes it move-in ready. Ample clean & very minimally used light beachy cabinets in excellent condition throughout. One-bedroom, full bath, vaulted ceilings with a private yard, covered deck, & community fire pit to enjoy with neighbors. Come & take a look at this Birch Bay gem, perfect for a getaway. Lesha Hutchison 360-510-0640

8037 Chinook Way

7704 Birch Bay Drive #30-01

BIRCH BAY

James Peter (Jim) Jorgensen

January 29, 1940 – June 8, 2023

s Westman Marine in the foreground of Blaine Harbor.

Harbor ...

From page 3

after another public review and comment period.

The remaining cleanup work is expected to cost $14 million. Under the state’s remedial action grant program, the port is eligible for reimbursement of up to half its costs.

Photo courtesy Washington state Department of Ecology boatyard, are following best management practices and procedures to prevent further contamination. “All contamination at the site is historical or legacy contamination,” Fawley said.

DOE plans to finalize the cleanup action plan after addressing comments this summer, with design and permitting scheduled for 2023/24. No date has been set for cleanup construction, but it will occur under a separate legal agreement and

More information and the action plan can be found on the DOE website at bit.ly/3N2iLAt.

Bellingham environmental advocacy nonprofit RE Sources, which has partnered with the port and DOE, created a video to provide background information on the site. It can be viewed on YouTube at bit.ly/3PbddX1.

Staffing levels temporarily decrease Blaine’s CDS services

The city of Blaine’s Community Development Services (CDS) Department has decreased its service levels and response times to accommodate for short staffing.

CDS will limit its in-person service hours at the planning and building front counter in city hall, according to a June 8 city of Blaine news release. The reduced hours will be from 8:30 a.m. to noon Mondays, from 8:30 a.m. to noon and 1-3:30 p.m. on Tuesdays, and from 8:30 a.m. to noon Thursdays. The office will be closed Wednesdays and Fridays. CDS staff will be available by phone, email and individual appointments from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday

through Friday.

CDS will extend the timelines for building and land use permit review and approval. Building inspection requests must be submitted at least 48 hours in advance. City staff also expect a longer response time to private property complaints, such as overgrown yards or junk vehicles.

The department is down from six to four staff members, CDS director Stacie Pratschner wrote in an email. The city is currently advertising for the building official and a city planner position, she wrote.

The reduced hours are expected to last through the end of the summer, according to the news release.

James Peter (Jim) Jorgensen passed away on June 8, 2023, at the age of 83. Jim was born on January 29, 1940, in Spokane, WA, to Folmer Christopher and Esther Margaret Thorpe Jorgensen. There, he and his older brother Ron engaged in many shenanigans with their dog Blackie, and his dad introduced him to the art of fishing and hunting, a source of lifelong joy. The family moved to Enumclaw, WA, when Jim was a teen, and at Enumclaw High School, Jim was a standout athlete, playing football, basketball, and tennis. Jim’s path took him to Western Washington State College (now WWU), where highlights included playing at nationals with the golf team and graduating with a degree in education. But the life-changing event at Western was meeting his wife, Patricia. Boy could they jitterbug! Together over 60 years, they spent their entire married life in Whatcom County, moving to Blaine in 1963 for Jim’s first teaching job. Their love shone bright and Patricia made his heart sing until the very end.

Although various health issues challenged Jim in his last years, he faced them with courage and never lost the twinkle in his eye and his sense of humor. He was always looking to pull your leg and never let you forget when he did. Laughter always filled the room when Jim was around.

Two threads ran throughout Jim’s life—a love of people and the outdoors. Much to his children’s chagrin, he would approach anyone, anywhere, for a chat, especially if it looked as if they had been fishing. He was quick with a smile and had a real gift for seeing the person in front of him and cherishing each new connection. Bonus points if you happened to have cookies or a fishing report to share!

Jim was a beloved teacher who touched thousands of lives over his 30-year career with the Blaine School District. He believed that the best learning happened outside the classroom, and with his handy teaching assistant, Stickman, imparted learning to last a lifetime. He taught earth science to generations of Blaine High School 9th graders and was crazy enough to take them all on a 3-day field trip to eastern Washington. Even non-science lovers came back with a new appreciation of columnar joints, erratics, and diatomaceous earth, and no one forgot the infamous “snipe hunt” after evening campfire. Years later, parents of his students clamored for a field trip of their own, and so the AGE trip was born, packed with the same fun learning but with the luxury of cabins instead of tents. He felt so lucky to teach what he loved and had an amazing way of bringing it to life. He spent evenings watching stars through the telescope with his students of astronomy, took field trips that included a look into the Mount St. Helens crater with those lucky enough to take geology, led Drayton Harbor bird identification walks for students of ornithology, and taught an outdoor education class that was like no other, including collaboration with Nooksack Salmon Enhancement Association to build a salmon hatchery on Dakota Creek.

No doubt he caught a few of those salmon they helped hatch, as his second retirement came after 40 years as the owner/operator of Jim’s Salmon Charter, which he operated in the summers out of the Blaine marina. Over the years he could count on one hand the number of times he was skunked, and it should be noted he wasn’t the best of company when a big one got away! So many fish stories, but as a golfer, perhaps his most memorable trip was with Arnold Palmer, who caught a 27-pound King on Jim’s boat in 1987. Around that time, Jim started his “salmonar” classes to pass on his knowledge of the Wiley Salmon to local fisherman. While they were grateful, probably the salmon were not.

Jim’s third retirement came in 2015 after serving 12 years as a commissioner for the Port of Bellingham. His contribution to the community was recognized by the Port in 2016, when they renamed Jorgensen Pier in his honor. Jim loved working with others to make Blaine the best place it could be. Two of his proudest achievements were spearheading the committee that brought the Blaine Marine Park to life in 1987 and being a founding member of the Wings Over Water birding festival, an annual event held in Blaine since 2003.

Jim is survived by his wife, Patricia; daughter MaryAnne Jorgensen (Tatsuya Haraikawa); son Chris Jorgensen (Whitney); and grandchildren Annika and Daniel Haraikawa. He is preceded in death by his older brother Ronald. A celebration of Jim’s life will be held in September. Details to come.

sheriff’s repOrts

May 29, 10:16 a.m.: Motor vehicle accident on Birch Bay Drive and Deer Trail.

May 29, 10:36 a.m.: Motor vehicle accident on Sunset Drive.

May 29, 5:09 p.m.: 911 hangup on Loomis Trail Road.

May 30, 8:09 a.m.: Domestic order violation on Harbor Drive.

May 30, 4:27 p.m.: Suspicious person on Tarte Road.

May 30, 6:28 p.m.: Death investigation on Sunrise Road, Custer.

May 30, 8:55 p.m.: Traffic hazard on Bay Road and Clamdigger Drive.

May 31, 4:06 p.m.: Impround private on Birch Bay-Lynden Road.

June 1, 6:05 a.m.: Theft on Surf Place.

June 1, 7:05 a.m.: Suspicious vehicle on Loomis Trail Road and Portal Way.

June 1, 7:22 a.m.: Suicidal subject on Delta Line Road, Custer.

June 1, 5:25 p.m.: Runaway on Sole Drive.

June 2, 12:46 a.m.: Subject stopped and arrested on warrant on Jackson Road.

June 2, 12:39 p.m.: Hit and run on Birch Bay Drive.

June 2, 12:54 p.m.: Burglary on Birch Bay-Lynden Road.

June 2, 4:12 p.m.: Burglary on Zell Road, Custer.

June 2, 5:07 p.m.: Shots on Sunset Drive.

ACROSS

June 2, 5:17 p.m.: Juvenile problem on Halibut Drive.

June 3, 10:39 a.m.: Shots on Harborview Road.

June 3, 7:26 p.m.: Attempted suicide on Birch Bay Drive.

June 3, 9:22 p.m.: Fireworks on Morgan Drive.

Coming up

June 4, 5:37 a.m.: Suicidal subject on Surf Place.

June 4, 9:46 a.m.: Neighborhood dispute on Sunset Drive.

June 4, 1:10 p.m.: Harassment on Harborview Road.

June 4, 6:41 p.m.: Threat on Birch Bay-Lynden Road.

pOLiCe repOrts

June 2, 4:07 p.m.: Trespass on D Street.

June 2, 4:27 p.m.: Property found on H Street.

June 2, 4:28 p.m.: Trespass on D Street.

June 2, 7:08 p.m.: Assist agency on A Street.

June 3, 1:28 p.m.: Domestic verbal on Martin Street.

June 3, 8:24 p.m.: Neighborhood dispute on Clyde Street.

June 3, 9:33 p.m.: Domestic verbal on Bayview Avenue.

June 4, 6:03 a.m.: Suspicious person on Semiahmoo Parkway.

June 4, 6:51 a.m.: Trespass on Semiahmoo Parkway.

June 4, 7:36 a.m.: Trespass on Boblett Street.

June 4, 5:20 p.m.: Domestic verbal on D Street.

June 5, 7:53 a.m.: Harassment on Peace Portal Drive.

June 5, 5:51 p.m.: Trespass on Boblett Street.

CrOssWOrd

9. Owl genus 10. Girls

11. Unbeliefs

12. Force unit

14. Expired trade agreement

15. Went alone

18. Animal noises

20. Woman who graduated from a specific school 24. The very top 26. Organs in males 28. Earnings 30. Z Z Z 32. Reddish browns 34. A salt or ester of acetic acid 35. A place to get off your feet

June 6, 5:38 p.m.: Mental health issue on Martin Street.

June 6, 6:03 p.m.: Assist agency on Selder Road.

June 7, 10:58 a.m.: Theft on Pacific Highway.

June 7, 3:39 p.m.: Animal problem on Evans Drive.

June 7, 5:37 p.m.: Traffic problem on H Street.

June 7, 8:43 p.m.: Theft on 12th Street.

June 7, 8:58 p.m.: Domestic order violation on 15th Street.

June 7, 9:01 p.m.: Runaway on Bayview Avenue.

June 8, 3:46 p.m.: Sex crime (not rape) on C Street.

June 9, 12:15 a.m.: Domestic verbal on A Street.

June 9, 4:23 a.m.: Suspicious circumstance – no street given.

June 9, 11:23 a.m.: Assault simple on H Street.

Report by Blaine Police Department

50. Small parrot 51. Primordial matter of the universe 55. __ fi (slang)

tides

Whatcom Dream Financial Empowerment Class: Mondays and Thursdays, July 6-20, 6:30-7:30 p.m., CAP Center, 508 G St. 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 St., 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.

Trivia at the Vault: Thursday, June 15, 7 p.m., 277 G Street. Info: thevaultwine.com.

Tidepool Exploration: Friday, June 16, 10 a.m.–noon, meet at the playground at Birch Bay State Park. Come explore your local intertidal zone with beach naturalists. Learn about and have fun finding cool creatures on the beach. Free.

Clamming 101: Friday, June 16, 10 a.m.–noon, BP Heron Center at Birch Bay State Park. Learn shellfish regulations, how to dig for clams, different clam species and methods of cleaning and cooking. Please come prepared with a shellfish license, shovel/trowel and small bucket.

Live Music at The Vault: Friday, June 16, 7 p.m., 277 G Street. Featuring: RT Collective. Info: thevaultwine.com.

What’s the Point?: Saturday, June 17, 10 a.m.–2 p.m., Point Whitehorn Marine Reserve, 6899 Koehn Road. A free, family-friendly event featuring low tide beach tours, community booths and more. Naturalists will meet you on the beach to help explore the low tide and learn about the critters. Come prepared with sunscreen, water and snacks. Leave dogs at home.

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.

Coffee Connect with Sharon Shewmake: Saturday, June 17, 6-7 p.m., Shores Restaurant, 7848 Birch Bay Drive. State senator Sharon Shewmake will have an open discussion with the community.

Trivia at the Vault: Thursday, June 22, 7 p.m., 277 G Street. Info: thevaultwine.com.

Splash Days: Friday, June 23, noon–2 p.m., Third and Martin Streets. Kids beat the heat in a street party with fire hydrant sprinklers. Small children must be supervised, shoes recommended. Ice cream by Sugar Shack plus hot dogs, chips and refreshments. Sponsored by the Blaine-Birch Bay park and recreation district. Info: bbbparkandrec.org.

Live Music at The Vault: Friday, June 23, 7 p.m., 277 G Street. Featuring: Trio Sueño. Info: thevaultwine.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.

1. Mangled

2. Ruffled some feathers

3. Not young 4. Lakers legend

5. Nocturnal S. American rodent

6. Direction (Scottish)

7. Intestinal inflammation

8. Spring back in fear

37. More disreputable

38. Kidney condition 40. Cease moving 42. Quick 43. Extra seed covering 45. “Survivor: Panama” winner

47. Six

49. One who inspects lamps

Weather

Precipitation: During the period of June 5-11, 0.4 inches of precipitation was recorded. The 2023 yearto-date precipitation is 11 inches.

Temperature: High for the past week was 83°F on June 7 with a low of 49°F on June 7. Average high was 66°F and average low was 56°F.

Courtesy Birch Bay Water & Sewer Dist.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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