The Northern Light: August 10-16, 2023

Newspaper of Blaine and Birch Bay

Outdoor yoga classes this month,

Northwest Steam Society hosts 50th public meet

B y M adisun T o B isch

Enthusiasts from the Northwest Steam Society are gathering their fleet of boats and historical memorabilia at Blaine Harbor for their 50th anniversary celebration of all things steam, Friday, August 11 through Sunday, August 13.

Five boats arrived for the Drayton Harbor Maritime Festival on August 5-6, but organizers said they hope to see 16 steamboats and two steam cars for their annual public event.

The steam society’s relationship with Blaine stretches back to the early years of the maritime festival, said Blaine Chamber of Commerce volunteer Carroll Solomon.

“They’ve always been a part of our event on a smaller scale, but this year there are going to be more of them, and they’re going to be here longer,” she said.

The steam society plans events throughout the year for members to swap parts and stories, discuss issues and solutions and, most of all, enjoy peace and silence on the water.

Those interested in learning more about the steam society can find them at Gate 2 in Blaine Harbor ready to answer questions and show off their steam collectibles on Friday from noon to 5 p.m., Saturday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sunday from 8 a.m. to noon. The Blaine Harbor Boating Center, 235 Marine Drive, will also have an indoor display of steam memorabilia, including models, engines and two presentations chronicling the history of the steam culture from the 1960s to today.

Dave and Bonnie Hogan were in charge of planning the 50th annual steam meet. Dave inherited his love for steam from his father in the 1950s and joined the steam society at 10 years old. Bonnie got involved when the two married over 30 years ago.

The public’s interest in steam was so strong that the hobbyists decided to hold an annual public event where non-members could stop by and satisfy their curiosity about the steamboats. That was about

(See Steam boat, page 15)

Birch Bay incorporation survey open to residents surrounding urban growth area

Just months after the first Birch Bay governance survey was released to the public, another survey has opened to include input from unincorporated residents just outside of the Birch Bay urban growth area. The survey deadline is Wednesday, August 16.

The Birch Bay Community PAC released the initial month-long survey in April to gauge the community’s interest in incorporating as a city or annexing into Blaine. After looking over feedback, lead

organizer Matt Berry said he decided to open a second survey to residents directly outside of the Birch Bay urban growth area, including those in the Birch Point, Drayton Harbor, Pleasant Valley and Point White Horn areas.

The latest survey has eight questions and is anticipated to take about five minutes. Results from both surveys will be used to plan future Birch Bay governance.

The Birch Bay Incorporation Committee, which has about 50 members, is separate from the PAC and in charge of the incorpo-

Family files wrongful death lawsuit for Point Roberts couple who died from CO poisoning

The children of Gail Amundsen and Murray Church have filed a lawsuit against Whatcom County and several companies alleging negligence resulting in the wrongful deaths of the couple due to carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning. The litigation has been ongoing since the lawsuit was filed January 3 in Whatcom

County Superior Court.

Gail Amundsen, 61, and Murray Church, 67, were found dead in their home on Thanksgiving Day evening in 2021. The pair were discovered by family friends who were asked to check on them after their children had been unable to make contact with them for several days. Church was lying in bed while Amundsen was found in an adjoining bathroom. The apparent

cause of death for the couple appeared to be due to the faulty installation of a radiant heating system.

The couple had moved into their newly constructed home in August 2021. It was heated by a high efficiency Triangle Tube Prestige Solo 110 condensing boiler which can use either natural gas or propane for

(See Lawsuit, page 6)

ration process. The committee aims to have the proposed Birch Bay city boundaries by fall, Berry said, and then will hold a public hearing for additional community input.

“We are hoping to get the ball rolling with a notice of proposed incorporation as soon as we have an idea on the opinions of the surrounding areas,” Berry said. “We don’t want to leave anyone out but we also don’t want to include people who would prefer to remain in unincorporated What-

(See Survey, page 5)

s The Lady Washington tall ship enters Blaine Harbor after a passenger voyage on August 5. The tall ship set sail in Blaine for the first time since the pandemic in celebration of the Drayton Harbor Maritime Festival. See more festival photos on page 10.

Photo by Ruth Lauman

Premium

Parks district starts outdoor yoga series

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477 Peace Portal Drive #101, Downtown Blaine

s Blaine-Birch Bay Park and Recreation District 2 (BBBPRD2) held its first free sunset yoga class on August 4. BBBPRD2 is hosting the classes every Friday in August at Blaine Marine Park. The classes start at 7:30 p.m., except for the August 25 class, which will start at 7:10 p.m. The classes are open to anyone and sponsored by Blaine Healing Arts Massage Therapy. Photo courtesy Blaine-Birch Bay Park and Recreation District 2

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WTA offers free fares August 10-19

Free fare week comes after Route 75 expands in Blaine, Birch Bay

s The Whatcom Transportation Authority (WTA) Route 75 expanded in Blaine and Birch Bay in mid-June. The changes created stops along C Street in Blaine and near Birch Bay Village.

B y n olan B aker

Whatcom Transportation Authority (WTA) has announced it will offer a full week of free fares starting Thursday, August 10. The free fare week is set to benefit more Blaine and Birch Bay passengers after WTA recently extended Route 75, the only full-service bus route connecting Blaine to Bellingham.

From Thursday, August 10 to Saturday, August 19, all bus rides within Whatcom County will be completely free of charge.

WTA extended Route 75 in mid-June to run farther north, adding four stops along C Street in Blaine, and further into Birch Bay, now going all the way to Birch Bay Village on Birch Point Road. But the extended fixed route service did come at a cost.

The WTA cited 23,516 trips on Route 75 between January 1 and October 31, 2022. Of those trips, 2,092 – nearly nine percent of all riders, were using the WTA’s “flex” service.

Flex service refers to bus routes that can “flex” off-route within the bus’s normal service area, and pick a rider up directly from a predetermined address. Anyone can reserve a flex ride, and the service does not cost any more than a regular fare. But the WTA says flex services, while crucial for many riders, can cause delays in service.

In order to expand fixed bus services, the WTA greatly diminished the “flex service area” along the 75. As a solution for those with mobility issues or disabilities that keep them from using fixed bus routes, the WTA always provides paratransit services within three-fourths of a mile of any bus stop.

Paratransit services are designed to be ADA accessible, and take riders directly to their destinations. With an expanded Route 75 comes expanded paratransit services, and less need for flex service, according to the WTA.

Fares are always free for anyone under 18.

Map courtesy WTA

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

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A ribbiting time at Blaine Public Library OpiniOn Letters

s Blaine Public Library and Blaine Arts Council partnered for a frog-themed story time and craft hour on August 3. Despite an overwhelming frog-friendly crowd, Barbara Davis-Pyles’ children’s book “Nobody Likes Frogs” was a leaping success. The “toadally fun fact” session and story time was followed by a craft session where attendees got creative with their own frog headbands. Davis-Pyles donated several copies of “Nobody Likes Frogs” and some of her other titles to Blaine school district. Photos by

The Editor:

The Friends of the Blaine Library continue to remain active in their support of the Blaine Library and wish to thank all who came out to their annual July 4 Blowout Book Sale. Final profit figures amount to over $2,500, representing many, 50 cent and $1 items.

You’ll soon have another opportunity to show the Friends your support –this time to celebrate summer, jazz and libraries. The Friends of the Libraries Whatcom Grooves Summer Jazz Series is coming to the Blaine Performing Arts Center on Saturday, August 19, from 7 to 8 p.m. This free and family friendly concert will feature the popular large ensemble group, The Jazz Explosion. Led by drummer Jerry Steinhilber, the Pacific Northwest’s most in-demand artists will be sure to get the audience grooving in the aisles.

The Blaine Friends wish to thank local sponsor Team Stauffer of Windermere Real Estate for so generously funding the evening’s venue costs. Be sure to stop by their table in the lobby and say hello and express your thanks. The Friends also extend a huge thank you to the series sponsors: Whatcom County Library Foundation and

Whatcom County Community Foundation for their sizeable grants that made all the fun possible.

Each concert attendee will be entered into a free drawing for prizes donated by The Jazz Center of Bellingham and G.O.A.T. Sandwiches. The first winner will enjoy two free tickets to any upcoming Bellingham Jazz Center event. The second winner will receive a G.O.A.T. Sandwiches four person family combo beach picnic meal.

Blaine Public Library staff will have a pop-up library, where you’ll be able to check out some cool music-related library resources or even sign up for a library card. The Friends will be on hand to help you with the simple process of becoming a Blaine Library Friend.

Finally, be sure to visit the Whatcom Library Foundation table where you can learn more about the latest Blaine Public Library building project proposal brought forward by the Kulshan Land Trust, in cooperation with the city of Blaine and Whatcom County Library System.

Debby Farmer, former Blaine library manager and lifetime Friend of the Blaine Library Blaine

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.

Blaine-Birch Bay Park and Recreation: Next meeting is Tuesday,

The Editor:

For a number of years, I have done morning crossing guard duty at the corner of Mitchell Avenue and Boblett Street. I’ve seen a lot of near-accidents and drivers causing traffic issues, simply because they were not thinking or planning. As another year rapidly approaches, I’d like to remind drivers of a few things.

When you get in your car to go to school, think! You are driving in a school zone where 5- to 18-year-old children are walking, riding or otherwise moving. Slow down and be patient. The speed limit is 20 mph during school hours; however, if you were to strike a 45-pound kid with your 3,000-pound car at 20 mph, guess who gets the worst of it?

Kids have the right of way. With or without a crossing guard or stop sign, the kids have a right of way in a crosswalk. Look for kids on bicycles, skateboards, scooters, electric boards, etc. They are in (See Letters, next page)

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

August 15. Meetings are usually 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.

Madisun Tobisch

Survey ...

From page 1

com County.”

The initial survey has garnered about 500 responses, which Berry said is more than double the responses the port of Bellingham received on a survey on Birch Bay issues, including community governance, in the early 2000s.

About 54.5 percent of people who responded to the initial survey supported incorporation and another 16.5 percent were interested in incorporation, according to the Birch Bay Community PAC. About 29 percent of survey-takers were opposed to incorporation.

The first survey respondents voiced favor for local control, improved services, keeping tax dollars in Birch Bay, growth management, post office and grocery store access and improved representation by elected officials, according to the Birch Bay Community PAC. Concerns regarding incorporation surrounded higher taxes and the cost of operating a city, which Berry said will be addressed in a future feasibility study.

The Birch Bay Incorporation Committee will submit a notice of intent to Whatcom County, circulate an incorporation petition that requires signatures from at least 10 percent of voters in the proposed city, decide on the governing

Letters ...

From previous page

your blind spot or where you least expect them and they are moving faster than you expect.

If a crossing guard is in the crosswalk with a sign up, you must stop. Wait until the crossing guard and kids are out of the crosswalk to proceed. Do not slide behind them as soon as you can – let them have the space to keep our kids safe.If you have a teen driver, please review this with them and discuss the possible outcomes of not thinking before driving through the school zone.

Each and every student in the Blaine school district is a precious gift to our community. Let’s keep them safe and avoid a lot of stress in our morning and afternoon commutes.

Georgia Sherman Blaine

The Editor:

Blaine is currently using reserves to cover revenue shortfalls. On course to municipal bankruptcy, I wonder if Blaine citizens will become involved in turning things around at city hall. The director of Community Development Services (CDS), who was responsible for the downtown zoning fiasco that allowed a church in the tourism retail area between the plazas, just resigned. That leaves CDS short of three key personnel, and our community without a rudder.

A major change at city hall is required if we want to prosper, and that can only come from Blaine citizens. Most cities have civic improvement groups involved with city hall to help of-

structure and facilitate a feasibility study. The last step will be for the Whatcom County Boundary Review Board to review the proposal.

Berry said he initiated the incorporation efforts earlier this year after watching Birch Bay’s population increase while services, such as law enforcement presence, haven’t matched the growth.

ficials from making costly mistakes. Indeed, that is why public participation is required under the Growth Management Act, so planners at city hall can solicit ideas from the community, not just paid staff and consultants.

While city hall gets an “F” for its handling of the downtown revitalization project, citizens of Blaine get an “F” for public involvement. What that tells me is there is a void of leadership, perhaps due to the lack of opportunity in Blaine, which is a symptom of an impoverished community.

The old guard is clearly not up to the task, so it’s up to the newcomers to step up. A first step is to improve communication between city hall and Blaine residents, so we know what’s happening.

Jim Taber Blaine

The Editor:

I want to express my strong support for the Birch Bay incorporation movement. I was the volunteer legal counsel for the Birch Bay Incorporation Committee chaired by Pat Alesse in 1991.

Pat laid out the benefits in a careful analysis showing the benefits of our tax dollars remaining in Birch Bay compared to their going to the county.

This was derailed by influential property owners not with any analysis but a five-word slogan plastered on signs all around the community: “No new taxes! No city!” This was as false then as it is now.

Please become informed about the benefits of incorporation compared to remaining an unincorporated community governed by Whatcom County.

Pat Anderson Birch Bay

“We’re going to see a decline in the quality of life,” he said.

Birch Bay has a population of about 10,000 people, according to the 2020 U.S. Census. If incorporated, Birch Bay would be the fourth largest city in Whatcom County behind Bellingham, Lynden and Ferndale.

“It’s something that probably

The Editor:

Please can someone explain to me why on Earth there are fireworks in Blaine on the 5th of August?

Is it because the Lady Washington boat is here? If so, what does that have to do with fireworks? Why should countless animals and people be consistently terrorized by fireworks with no regard? Can we not please limit fireworks in Blaine to twice a year on New Year’s Eve and Independence Day?

This spontaneous use of fireworks leaves no advanced warning for pets to be secured, sedated or travel plans to be made. Please consider the residents.

Ainsley Hay Blaine

should have happened years ago but it didn’t, and now seems to be a good time because there’s a lot of momentum in the community,” Berry said.

The second Birch Bay governance survey is available at bit.ly/ birchbaysurvey2. To learn more about results from the first survey, visit birchbaycommunitypac.com.

s The map shows the Birch Bay urban growth area within the dashed lines, while the Birch Bay census-designated place is within the solid lines. The Birch Bay Community PAC has opened a second Birch Bay governance survey to receive input from residents just outside of the urban growth area, including those in the Birch Point, Drayton Harbor, Pleasant Valley and Point Whitehorn areas.

Map courtesy Birch Bay Community PAC

RECENT HOUSE & LOT PRICES Blaine, Birch Bay & Point Roberts

JULY 2023

DESCRIPTION

HIGHER END HOUSES: $800,000 & ABOVE:

1-story house with 2,189 SF, 1,914 SF basement, 3 BD, 5 BA, 648 SF attached garage, 465 SF balcony, 456 SF patio, built in 2000; marine and territorial views, .22 acres land.

2-story house with 2,416 SF, 3 BD, 2 BA, 416 SF attached garage, 720 SF detached garage, 180 SF loft, 492 SF deck, built in 2004, plus 1-story house with 548 SF, 1 BD, 1 BA, 244 SF deck, waterfront; marine view, .48 acres land.

1-story house with 2,279 SF, 3 BD, 4 BA, 1,015 SF attached garage, 125 SF patio, 280 SF guest house, built in 2003; territorial view, .34 acres land.

1-story house with 2,086 SF, 1,276 SF basement, 3 BD, 3 BA, 576 SF attached garage, 280 SF deck, built in 2018; marine view, .23 acres land.

1-story house with 2,334 SF, 3 BD, 3 BA, 428 SF attached garage, 968 SF patio, built in 1990, waterfront; marine view, .25 acres land.

1- and a half story house with 1,929 SF, 3 BD, 2 BA, 564 SF attached garage, 679 SF patio, built in 1977, waterfront; marine and territorial view, .25 acres land.

1-and a half story condo with 2,333 SF, 3 BD, 3 BA, 556 SF built-in garage, 242 SF patio, built in 2018, waterfront; marine and territorial view.

1-story house with 2,435 SF, 3 BD, 3 BA, 905 SF attached garage, 350 SF patio, built in 2002, .39 acres land.

1-and a half story house with 1,320 SF 2 BD, 2 BA, 240 SF patio, built in 1977, 50 feet waterfront; marine view, .11 acres land.

2-story house with 3,376 SF, 3 BD, 3 BA, 280 SF balcony, 350 SF deck, 367 SF patio, 198 SF storage, built in 1970, 5.13 acres land.

COMMERCIAL PROPERTIES:

2- 1- story duplex with 1,680 SF, 4 BD, 2 BA each, built in 1971, .24 acres land.

2-story office building with 15,290 SFt, 10,250 SF basement, elevator, built in 1994; marine view, 1.52 acres land.

LAND:

.27 acres commercial land; marine view.

.33 acres residential lot; marine view.

.21 acres residential lots. (2 lots)

Waterfront lot; marine view.

.26 acres residential lot; territorial view.

8013 Chinook Way, Blaine

611 Marine Drive, Point Roberts

8656 Great Horned Owl Lane, Blaine

8040 Makah Road, Blaine

8140 Coquitlam Place, Blaine

8228 Cowichan Road, Blaine

Unit #24, Semiahmoo Shore Condominium, 9412 Turnstone Lane, Blaine

5524 Canvasback Road, Blaine

6983 Birch Bay Drive, Blaine

1692 Benson Road, Point Roberts

Lawsuit ...

From page 1 its fuel source. It comes set up for natural gas and must be converted to use propane.

Andgar and Shoreline.”

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2150 Peace Portal Drive, Blaine

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5727 and 5731 Sea Smoke Way, Blaine

Marine Drive, Blaine

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The lawsuit names Optimum Contracting, Point Roberts, the general contractor who built the home; Andgar Mechanical, Ferndale, which installed the furnace; Shoreline Electrical Services, Point Roberts, responsible for installing smoke and CO detectors; Triangle Tube/Phase III Co., New Jersey, which manufactured the furnace; Whatcom County, responsible for inspecting and issuing occupation permits; and John/Jane Does 1-99.

The children, Dawson Church and Hailey Church, are represented by attorneys David Brown and Matt Connor of Brett McCandlis, Brown & Connor. The law firm has offices in Bellingham, Mount Vernon, Everett, Seattle, Vancouver, and Spokane and specializes in cases involving personal injuries, vehicular accidents, wrongful death, medical malpractice and dog bites.

The lawsuit alleges that Optimum Contracting as general contractor was responsible for overseeing the work of subcontractors and “was negligent in failing to ensure safe installation of a heating system in the home … failing to ensure the installation of legally required CO detectors … failing in its oversight of the work of

Regarding Andgar, the lawsuit alleges that Andgar negligently breached its duty to safely install the heating system, including the failure to install the appropriate propane conversion kit as well as the negligent installation of the furnace’s vent system.

The plaintiffs further allege that Shoreline Electrical Services was negligent in failing to install CO detectors in the home.

Triangle Tube is alleged to be responsible for the deaths of the couple under the State of Washington’s Product Liability Act. Specifically, the lawsuit notes that the furnace lacked a vent installation detector or similar device that would have prevented the deaths of the couple.

Whatcom County is alleged to have “failed to exercise reasonable care in the performance of its duties of inspection and/or permitting” of the home.

Although discovery is still proceeding, all the defendants have responded initially to the complaints and have submitted requests that the case be heard by a jury. According to Brown and Connor, such a request is usual in wrongful death lawsuits, saying that judges are typically far more likely to approve higher damages than juries.

In each of the responses, the defendants denied responsibility. Indeed, some contended that Church and Amundsen’s damages were caused in whole or in part by the couple themselves, claim-

ing that they had replaced a combination smoke and CO detector with single purpose smoke detectors. For example, the county claims the couple were experiencing periodic CO detector alerts during the summer of 2021, writing that “Shoreline Electrical responded and replaced batteries in an effort to correct the periodical alert of the CO detectors.” The single purpose smoke detector that was examined at the time of the deaths was hard-wired. Interestingly, the county wrote that all of its “actions in this matter were taken pursuant to a duty owed to the public and required by statutes that require the [county] to inspect buildings,” yet it “owed no duty to the Plaintiffs as individuals.” “The duty to ensure compliance rests with individual permit applicants, builders and developers,” it posited.

The lawsuit is still in the discovery stage which should wrap up in coming weeks. According to the lawyers representing the couple’s children, it currently takes 12 months or more to set trial dates, meaning the earliest the case would come to trial is sometime in 2024.

The plaintiffs are seeking damages to be proven at trial for economic damages such as loss of income, funeral expenses and property damage as well as non-economic damages for pain and suffering, loss of enjoyment of life and loss of consortium and parent/child relationship.

s The outside vent detached from the furnace, allowing CO to escape inside the Point Roberts home of Gail Amundsen and Murray Church in November 2021. Courtesy photo

Active S eniors

Unique ways to give back to the elderly

Older adults offer so much to local and national communities. Despite that, seniors do not always get the recognition they deserve.

According to data from America’s Health Rankings, adults aged 65 and older comprise 16.8 percent of America’s population in 2021. That is projected to grow to 22 percent by 2040. The Canadian government indicates that seniors accounted for 18.8 percent of the nation’s population in 2022.

It’s always a good time to thank special seniors in your life, whether they are family, caregivers, friends, or mentors. Individuals can go one step further by giving back to seniors in the following ways.

• Volunteer: Visit a senior center and find out how you can volunteer your services and do something fun or informational with the seniors who are there. You may be able to guide a class in a certain activity, such as crafting or yoga. Volunteers may be needed to call bingo numbers or help with meal services.

• Provide financial relief: Small

business owners can offer discounts to senior clientele. Perhaps run specials on services, including anything from tax preparation to hair styling. If you don’t own a business, you can provide some assistance in other ways, such as cutting the lawn or doing light gardening so that a senior does not have to spend money on a weekly service.

• Tutor technology: If you are tech savvy, you can help seniors navigate new technologies. Help seniors with social media accounts, downloading digital photos and more.

• Dine out (or in): Some seniors may be alone if a spouse has predeceased them or if they are divorced. Loneliness may grow into depression. One way to help a senior feel appreciated is by sharing meals together. Designate a day or two each week to gather at the dinner table.

• Serve as a chauffeur: Offer to drive a senior to the store or appointments. While communities may have taxi services or even

All about atrial fibrillation

accessible senior rides, sometimes it can be more efficient for seniors to rely on others for rides. Take a senior along when shopping at the supermarket.

The heart has been characterized as the engine that makes the human body run. If that metaphor is not exactly spot-on, it still serves as a good indicator as to just how vital a healthy heart is to the human body.

Despite the importance of a healthy heart, diseases that affect the heart remain the single greatest cause of death across the globe. According to the World Health Organization, cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) are the leading cause of death globally, claiming roughly 18 million lives each year.

Hi, I’m Chuck!

in

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.

Various factors can adversely affect how well the heart functions, and that includes irregular heartbeat, also known as arrhythmia. Atrial fibrillation (AFib) is the most common form of arrhythmia, and it behooves anyone to gain a greater understanding of this condition.

• Invite seniors to events: If you have a special event coming up, such as a child’s birthday, graduation or religious occasion, invite an elderly neighbor. It can brighten

What is AFib?

The Cleveland Clinic notes that AFib is an arrhythmia that begins in the upper chambers of the heart known as the atria. When a person has AFib, these chambers beat irregularly, and the American Heart Association reports that, when this occurs, blood pools in the area because not enough blood is being pumped out of the atria. That pooled blood can clot and pose a serious threat. What happens if a blood clot forms?

The AHA notes that, if a clot forms, the blood can be pumped out of the heart to the brain, which blocks the blood supply to the brain and ultimately results in stroke. In fact, AHA data indicates between 15 and 20 percent of people who have strokes have AFib. In addition, the Heart and Stroke Foundation of Canada reports that one-fourth of all

his or her day and even provide a change of routine and scenery. There’s no shortage of ways to give back to the special seniors in your life and in your community.

strokes affecting people 40 and older are caused by AFib. Does AFib produce symptoms?

The Cleveland Clinic notes that some people with AFib experience no symptoms. Such is the case in people whose ventricles are beating at a normal or slightly elevated pace. When ventricles begin to beat faster, then individuals may experience symptoms that can include:

• Extreme fatigue

• Irregular heartbeat

• Heart palpitations

• Feeling of butterflies or fish flopping in the chest

• Dizziness or lightheadedness

• Fainting

• Shortness of breath

• Chest pain

Can I lower my risk for AFib?

The AHA notes that adopting and maintaining a heart-healthy lifestyle is the best way to control AFib risk. Such a lifestyle includes:

• Regular physical activity

• Adherence to a heart-healthy diet that is low in salt, saturated fats, trans fats and cholesterol

• Controlling blood pressure, including management of high blood pressure

• Avoid excessive consumption of alcohol and caffeine

• Avoid smoking

• Maintain healthy cholesterol levels

• Maintain a healthy weight

Researchers behind a 2021 study published in the journal Progress in Cardiovascular Diseases note that AFib has sometimes been characterized as the cardiovascular epidemic of the 21st century. Such a characterization underscores how significant a global health threat AFib can be. More information about AFib can be found at heart.org.

File photo

File photo

What to know about elder abuse and how to report

Elder abuse is the intentional mistreatment or harming of a person over age 60. This abuse takes many forms, including physical, emotional, and sexual harm, neglect and financial exploitation.

More than one in 10 older adults experience some form of abuse each year. That number is likely much higher because elder abuse is often underreported – especially in underserved communities.

Abuse victims typically show emotional and behavioral red

flags, such as depression, unusual fear or anxiety, or intentional isolation. Many victims are abused by someone they know or trust. It’s important to look for unusual changes in behavior around:

• Family members

• Staff at inpatient facilities

• Hired or volunteer caregivers

• People in positions of trust like doctors or financial advisors

You can also help make a difference by checking in with older loved ones. Looking for warning signs of mistreatment is the

first step to preventing abuse. Signs of physical abuse include bruises, burns or other unexplained injuries.

There may also be signs of neglect such as:

• Poor nutrition or hygiene,

• And lack of necessary medical aids like glasses or medications that a caretaker should provide.

There may also be indications of financial abuse. These may include:

• Unpaid rent

• Sudden changes to a will

• Unusual changes in money

management

• Large, unexplained financial transactions

• Mortgages despite sufficient financial resources

• Allowing someone new to access bank accounts

If you suspect that someone is a victim of elder abuse, don’t ignore it. Call 911 if you or someone you care about is in a life-threatening situation. If you suspect that something isn’t right, but nobody seems to be in immediate danger, contact:

• Your local Adult Protective Services at napsa-now.org/

help-in-your-area.

• The National Center on Elder Abuse at 855/500-3537 (ELDR).

You can also find additional local resources by searching the Eldercare Locator at eldercare.acl. gov/public/index.aspx.

Take some time to call or visit with an older adult. Ask if they are okay and listen to what they tell you. Pay attention to signs of abuse or unusual behavior. Most of all, don’t be afraid to report instances of suspected abuse. Courtesy of Social Security Administration

Applying for Social Security benefits at 70 years or older

Retirement is not one-size-fitsall. It can mean different things to different people. Perhaps you have not applied for Social Security Administration (SSA) retirement benefits because you’re still working or are delaying applying so you can get the higher benefit. If you’re age 70 or older, you should apply now for the benefits you’re owed. Your benefits will not increase if you continue to delay applying for them because you are 70 or older.

Did you know that you can receive benefits even if you still work? Your earnings can increase your monthly benefit amount – even after you start receiv-

ing benefits. Each year that you work, SSA checks your earnings record. It’s possible your latest year of earnings is one of your highest 35 years. If so, the SSA will automatically recalculate your benefit amount and pay you any increase due.

You can claim your retirement benefits now. The best and easiest way to apply is with a personal my Social Security account. You can create your free account at ssa.gov/myaccount. Once you create your account, you can get an estimate of how much you might receive each month based on when you want to start receiving benefits and then apply.

Did you know?

Getting out and about is a vital component of many seniors’ daily lives, but it’s important that aging men and women recognize how much exercise is healthy for them.

The Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) notes that adults need a mix of physical activity to stay healthy. That mix should be a combination of moderate-intensity aerobic activities, which can include golfing, swimming and even gardening, and muscle strengthening activities like weightlifting that make the

muscles work harder than usual.

The DHHS recommends adults combine 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic activity per week with at least two days of muscle-strengthening activities.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention notes that these guidelines are safe for individuals who are 65 and older, generally fit and have no limiting health conditions. Individuals who do not fit that criteria should consult with their physicians before beginning a new exercise regimen, as it’s possible that they could be

In your account, you can also:

• Access our publications – like the fact sheet for workers ages 70 and up.

• Find your full retirement age.

• Learn about benefits for your spouse and family members.

• Apply for benefits.

• Manage your benefits once you start receiving them.

The SSA is here to help you secure today and tomorrow and the SSA invites you to learn more about applying for retirement benefits at ssa.gov/apply on the SSA website.

Courtesy of the Social Security Administration

putting their health at considerable risk if they attempt to follow guidelines designed for people who are generally fit.

It’s also important that healthy seniors avoid overdoing it in regard to exercise. Though the DHHS suggestions are the minimum recommendations, going too far beyond those guidelines without first consulting a physician could increase seniors’ risk for injury, illness or even death.

Drayton Harbor Maritime Festival and Pirate Daze 2023

Drayton

Photo courtesy BBBPRD2

Photo courtesy BBBPRD2

Harbor Maritime Festival brought an in-argh-uably good time to Blaine Harbor on August 5 and 6. Pirate Daze, hosted by Blaine-Birch Bay Park and Recreation District 2 (BBBPRD2), offered kids activities at Blaine Marine Park on August

5. The Lady Washington tall ship made its first appearance in Blaine since the pandemic, sending passengers on voyages from Blaine Harbor.

Photos by Ruth Lauman, unless otherwise noted

ABANDONED

Meridian Towing

DATE: Wed., Aug 16

Viewing at 8 am • Auction at 9 am AUCTION ADDRESS: 925 Boblett St. Blaine, WA 98230

Public Notices

NONPROBATE NOTICE TO CREDITORS. RCW 11.42.030. JUDGE: David E. Freeman

The notice agent named below has elected to give notice to creditors of the abovenamed decedent. As of the date of the filing of a copy of this notice with the court, the notice agent has no knowledge of any other person acting as notice agent or of the appointment of a personal representative of the decedent’s estate in the state of Washington. According to the records of the court as are available on the date of the filing of this notice with the court, a cause number regarding the decedent has not been issued to any other notice agent, and a personal representative of the decedent’s estate has not been appointed. 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 11.42.070 by serving on or mailing to the notice agent or the notice agent’s attor ney at the address stated below a copy of the claim and filing the original of the claim with the court in which the notice agent’s declaration and oath were filed. The claim must be presented within the later of: (1) Thirty days after the notice agent served or mailed the notice to the creditor as provided under RCW 11.42.020(2)(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 pro vided in RCW 11.42.050 and 11.42.060. This bar is effective as to claims against both the decedent’s probate and nonprobate assets.

Date of First Publication: August 3, 2023

The notice agent declares under penalty of perjury under the laws of the state of Washington on July 24, 2023, at Bellingham, Washington, that the foregoing is true and correct.

Notice Agent: Barbara J. Buckley 9 Byron Circle, Mill Vallley, CA 98941

Attorney for notice agent: Katti Esp 301 Prospect Street Bellingham, WA 98225 Address for Mailing or Service: Katti Esp 301 Prospect Street Bellingham, WA 98225 Court of notice agent’s

IN THE DISTRICT COURT FOR THE STATE OF WASHINGTON, IN AND FOR THE COUNTY OF WHATCOM. ATLANTIC SPECIALTY INSURANCE COMPANY, Plaintiff(s)

Blaine School District Budget

On July 10th, the Blaine School District will have completed its preliminary budget for the 2023-24 school year. A budget summary will be on file at the district administrative office at 765 H Street, and a copy will be furnished to any person requesting one. The summary will include a projected total of expenses and revenues. A public presentation on the 2023-24 budget will take place July 24th at 5:00 p.m. at 770 Mitchell Avenue in Blaine.

MLS #2130694 $235,000

Cozy, cute, comfortable 1 bedroom updated cabin nestled amongst 9 other colorful cabins. The Bayshore Condominium Association with shared community lawn space has both year round, seasonal and weekend residents. A short 3-minute walk to the endless beach at Birch Bay and Terrell Creek flowing just behind, updated Pan Abode log cabin is a 30 minute drive from Bellingham. New floors, windows, hot water tank, roof and updated electrical within past 5 years.

Stormy Jeretzky 360-220-1539

Exceptional single-level home with mountain views & excellent sun exposure. Rare find, elevated location with a level homesite. Provides wide parking space, including a potential area for boat or RV parking, not situated in a floodplain. Backyard is expansive & fully fenced. Home is 1503 sq. ft. 3 bedrooms, 1.75 baths, Great room, & Living room. Vinyl siding & composition roof, while the interior offers oak hardwood flooring entry, Great room, dining, & kitchen areas. Brian Southwick 360-815-6638

5782

Skagit Place

MLS #2143801 $625,000

Quiet Cul de Sac location in sought after Gated community. Birch Bay Village is the Pacific Northwest’s premier guard gated marina, golf and beach community sitting on the shores of Birch Bay & at the doorstep to San Juans & Gulf Islands. Local top builder’s personal home & features exceptional quality & attention to detail along with list of great features including Ledge Stone gas fireplace, vaulted ceilings, skylights, breakfast bar, private back yard along green belt. Lisa Kent 360-594-8034

4751 Birch Bay Lynden Rd #260

MLS #2140275 $188,900

Discover this beautiful home in the amenityrich Latitude 49 Resort, just steps from the picturesque Birch Bay. Cathedral ceilings add an air of elegance throughout. You’ll love the large, covered deck. The property offers a private lot, a storage shed, and an easy-to-maintain yard. Enjoy a plethora of community amenities, including an outdoor pool, hot tub, pickleball courts, exercise room, golf practice area, gym, on-site laundry, and a clubhouse with recreational area. Brandi Coplen 360-201-3951

Boblett Road

7424 Cotterill Blvd

MLS #2136883 $498,000

This creekside home in Birch Bay could be just what you are looking for. 3 spacious bedrooms, 2 full baths, Primary suite has a walk-in closet, full bathroom, with ample counter space. This light and bright home is ready for a full-time residence, weekend getaway, or VRBO. Spectacular views of the ocean from the front deck & living room and the views of beautiful Terrill Creek from the kitchen and back deck. The home is recently remodeled and includes new appliances.

Jessica Bates 360-410-0900

5512 Canvasback Road

MLS #2133409 $325,000

Jacobs Landing Condo! Located in the highly sought-after Birch Bay water community, this updated 2-bd, 1 and 1/2-bath boasts new vinyl floors and a large fireplace- giving it both a modern and cozy feel. Convenience is key with this prime location-easy access to shopping center, state park, pristine beaches, and an array of restaurants- providing the best of entertainment and relaxation. Enjoy year-round swimming and a private clubhouse. Airbnb, VRBO, or home! Nichole Parker 360-812-0126

#B304

MLS #2138827 $775,000

Custom Birch Bay Village saltwater view home 200ft . from community beach access. Watch Inland Pacific sunsets nightly towards Orcas Island & the Salish Sea, multiple viewing decks & fabulous top floor South facing sunsets. Over 2100 sq. ft. of custom finished living space + 778 sq. ft. unfinished basement space waiting for your finishing touch. Fabulous getaway or full time residence on a street of multi million dollar homes. 24/7 guard gated entry.

Mike Kent 360-815-3898

MLS #2126100 $465,000 4 bed 2.5 bath Bay Crest home is a wonderful place to live. Lovingly maintained & affordably priced. Home features open and bright layout, creating welcoming atmosphere. Recent interior & exterior paint updates add fresh look to home, giving it modern & clean appearance. Fenced yard & home backs up to green space. Enjoy peaceful views or entertain on spacious deck. Custom sidewalk & garden beds add to relaxing space. Easy access to beaches.

Renata Mason 360-815-2059

MLS #2035138 $250,000

Build your dream home on stunning 3.8acre vacant land property located just east of Blaine. Surplus land for privacy & gently sloping, wooded terrain to south, this property offers the perfect blend of privacy, natural beauty and potential building opportunities. Water and electricity available at street. Property will require a septic system. Excellent location just beyond city limits with easy access to shopping, amenities, I-5, and the Canadian border. Buyer to verify all info. Gerry Allen 360-920-0563

MLS #2129456 $1,200,000

Surrounded by water on a peninsula of land, with a beautiful marina nearby, sunlight facing southerly exposure, on the 17th green of a Jack Nicholas-designed golf course, this 3826 sq ft Semiahmoo home has it all. Many upgrades include a new furnace, red cedar decks, vertical grain fir patio doors, car enthusiast 3-car garage, with blue gravel flake epoxy flooring. Master Gardener designed the landscape with a Rain Bird sprinkling system to keep the landscape beautiful. Lisa

Sprague

360-961-0838

MLS #2142324 $978,500

The view dreams are made of...absolutely breathtaking sunsets, dazzling water & city night lights...all front & center from penthouse stunner! Radiating PNW charm, soaring ceilings set the tone & every thoughtfully executed detail is spot on. Luxurious spalike primary suite overlooks the Salish Sea and is privately tucked away from the second bedroom w/en-suite + additional office/ den. Marin owners enjoy exclusive beach access, 2 assigned garage parking spaces. Jen Freeman 360-815-0803

crawl

BEAUTIFUL STUDIO APT in Blaine available Sept. 1. Excellent references required. $750/month plus $50/month for utilities. Fully furnished. Beautiful country setting. Single occupancy. Text 360-739-5606.

All real estate/rentals advertising in this newspaper

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 1-800-877-0246.

7806 Birch Bay Drive #712

7396 Birch Bay Drive #9

5660 Nakat Way

7364 Clamdigger Drive

BIRCH BAY BIRCH BAY

9535 Semiahmoo Pkwy

BLAINE

BIRCH BAY SEMIAHMOO

City of Blaine issues alert on unconfirmed cougar sighting

en down the next day after there were no other sightings.

OBITUARIES

The city of Blaine issued an alert about an unconfirmed cougar sighting near Blaine school district campus on August 2 but no sightings have followed the initial report.

Gary McSpadden, operations and maintenance manager for Blaine Public Works Department, said in an email that a Whatcom County contractor spotted what appeared to be a cougar in the green belt just west of Blaine Primary School, near Boblett Street and Mitchell Avenue. Public works notified Blaine Police Department (BPD) and issued a news flash on the city’s website out of an abundance of caution, McSpadden said. The news release was tak-

BPD lieutenant Michael Munden said in an email that officers didn’t find signs of a cougar after responding to the area. BPD officers decided to not follow up on the report because there was no corroborating information.

Washington State Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW) spokesperson Becky Elder said WDFW did not receive a report and did not investigate.

The Washington State Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW) has a map of predatory wildlife incidents, including cougar, wolf or grizzly bears, on its website. The map, located at bit.ly/3OPV7cF, shows one confirmed cougar sighting in Birch Bay in 2023. A WDFW investiga-

tion found that a cougar attacked livestock near Blaine and Bay roads in February.

Cougars are occasionally reported in urban areas because they travel long distances but don’t stay long, according to the WDFW website. In Washington, humans have experienced two fatal cougar attacks and 20 injuries in the past century.

WDFW recommends people dial 911 to report emergency predatory wildlife incidents. For nonemergency predatory wildlife incidents, people can call 877/933-9847, text the tip to 847411 (TIP411) or submit a report online to wdfw.wa.gov/ about/enforcement/report.

For more information on cougars, visit the WDFW website at bit.ly/3OLKPu2.

Maritime Washington National Heritage Area launches interactive map

B y M adisun T o B isch

The newly established Maritime Washington National Heritage Area rolled out a network of resources on its website to celebrate Washington’s seaside culture.

The heritage area consists of over 3,000 miles of shoreline managed by the nonprofit Washington Trust for Historic Preservation in partnership with the National Parks Service. Maritime Washington works with local groups to explore the unique stories of waterfront communities and find ways to showcase them.

After the U.S. Congress established the heritage area in 2019, the program launched earlier this year to bring awareness to communities that have long contributed to Pacific Northwest culture.

During the planning, program director Alex Gradwohl said community members and organizations from Blaine, Birch Bay and Point Roberts contributed helpful information about north Whatcom County maritime heritage.

“Since most of our planning efforts were done during Covid-19, we’re really looking forward to getting out into the community,

including Blaine and Birch Bay, in person in the year to come,” she wrote in an email.

In addition to more information about the organization and ways to get involved, the website includes an interactive maritime map of destinations such as monuments, tribal centers, beaches and more. One of the 99 highlighted places on the map is Blaine’s Peace Arch Historical State Park. Also featured are Lily Point Marine Park in Point Roberts, the Whatcom Museum and Squalicum Harbor in Bellingham.

Another aspect of Maritime Washington’s work includes

showcasing stories from the waterfront’s past and present, and self-directed travel itineraries catered to specific locations and interests like a four-day road trip revolving around Native American culture and a seafood journey through Bellingham.

“We know that the peoples and organizations along Washington’s saltwater shorelines can have limited opportunity to collaborate and celebrate their vibrant water-based cultures – often leaving Washington’s maritime heritage under-appreciated,” according to the Maritime Washington website, maritimewa.org.

Robert “Bob” Myron Avery

October 28, 1936 – July 29, 2023

Bob was born on October 28, 1936 in Seattle to Lloyd and Mabel Avery. He went to heaven on July 29, 2023.

A veteran of the U.S, Air Force, Bob served the Seattle Police Department for over 27 years, a majority of that he served as a Seattle Police Harbor Patrol Officer and diver. He was a talented golfer and bowler, receiving a 300 PBA ring. He retired to Birch Bay and loved watching the ocean and being surrounded by family and friends. He embraced everyone who came to the beach house and considered them family.

Bob is survived by his wife of 38 years, Darla Avery; brother, Vern Avery; and children, Greg and Stacy Avery, Steve and Shelley Avery, Ryan and Tiffany Larsson, Debra and Craig Hamilton, and Michelle and Dale Altenburg. Bob was blessed with and adored his ten grandchildren and four great-grandchildren.

A celebration of his life will be held opening weekend of crab season on Saturday, August 19 from 1–5 p.m. at his home, The Beach House, as this was his favorite time to have crab on the wall. You may share memories at www.westfordfuneralhome.com.

Reggie Palacioz

June 21, 1941 – July 26, 2023

It is with heavy heart that I must announce that my husband Reggie passed away on July 26, 2023, at the age of 82 after a long battle with dementia and other medical issues.

He leaves behind his wife of 22 years, Lesley; his siblings Don Zappata (Donna), Richard (Teri) and Rosie (Melvin); children Tony and Carrie and various other family members.

We would like to thank everyone involved in his hospice care at Sunrise View in Everett along with the hospice team from Providence Hospital.

Please join us at American Legion Post 86, 4580 Legion Drive, Blaine, on August 19 at 2 p.m.

Dorita L. Gray (Whelan)

December 7, 1956 – May 5, 2023

The community is invited to celebrate Dorita’s life on Saturday, August 19, 2 p.m., in the Blaine Schools Performing Arts Center, 975 H Street. Light reception to follow in the cafeteria.

s The new Maritime Washington National Heritage Area interactive map on its website, maritimewa.org. Map courtesy maritimewa.org

sheriff’s repOrts

July 25, 11:57 a.m.: Disorderly conduct on H Street and Sunrise roads.

July 31, 1:15 p.m.: Animal problem on Birch Bay Lynden Road.

July 31, 5:38 p.m.: Suspicious circumstances on Owl Lane.

July 31, 6:54 p.m.: Suspicious vehicle on Shintaffer Road.

July 31, 8:21 p.m.: Theft cold call on Halibut Drive.

August 1, 9:52 a.m.: Vehicle prowl cold call on Skeena Way.

August 1, 3:40 p.m.: Civil problem on Richmond Park Road.

August 1, 6:32 p.m.: Trespass on Birch Bay Drive.

August 2, 2:07 p.m.: Trespass cold call on Pine Drive.

August 2, 3:18 p.m.: Runaway cold call on Lincoln Road.

August 2, 4:38 p.m.: Hit and run on Harborview Road and Birch Bay Drive.

August 2, 6:55 p.m.: Sex crime no rape cold call on Birch Bay Drive.

August 2, 9:56 p.m.: Vehicle theft cold call on Alderson Road.

August 3, 1:36 p.m.: Trespass on Birch Bay Drive.

August 3, 5:45 p.m.: Whatcomm Record on Sunrise Road, Custer.

August 4, 6:17 a.m.: Suspicious person on Holeman Avenue.

ACROSS

August 4, 10:12 a.m.: Domestic physical on Stein Road, Custer.

August 4, 12:08 p.m.: Domestic order violence cold call on Halibut Drive.

August 5, 3:04 a.m.: Burglary on Holeman Avenue.

August 5, 10:49 a.m.: Domestic order violence on Alder Street.

August 6, 9:27 a.m.: Domestic verbal on Boblett Road.

August 6, 1:26 p.m.: Shots fired on Terrill Drive.

Coming up

August 6, 2:11 p.m.: Domestic order violence on Harbor Drive.

August 6, 2:14 p.m.: Theft cold call on Beachcomber Drive.

August 7, 7:27 a.m.: Suspicious person on Blaine and Drayton Harbor roads.

August 7, 8:30 a.m.: Welfare check on Valley View Road, Custer. Fourth-degree domestic violence assault arrest.

August 7, 11:39 a.m.: Fight on Bay Road.

pOLiCe repOrts

July 28, 6:42 a.m.: Theft on Pacific Highway.

July 28, 11:26 a.m.: Animal problem on Blaine Avenue.

July 30, 3:56 p.m.: Noise complaint on Semiahmoo Parkway.

July 30, 9:37 p.m.: Suspicious vehicle on North Harvey Road

July 31, 8:24 p.m.: Hit and run on Peace Portal Drive.

August 1, 11:44 a.m.: Hit and run on H Street.

August 1, 2:26 p.m.: Theft on Boblett Street.

August 1, 6:28 p.m.: Burglary

CrOssWOrd

1. Civil rights organization

5. Calendar month (abbr.)

8. Monetary unit of Burma

11. Twyla __, US dancer

13. Everything included

14. “Antman” actor Rudd

15. Italian city

16. Nowhere to be found

17. Mild yellow Dutch cheese made in balls

18. Turkish officer

20. Perform on stage

21. Ribosomal ribonucleic acid

22. Canadian coastal provinces

25. Furnishes anew

30. Edible mollusk

31. No seats available

32. Garden figurine

33. Two-legged support

38. Rest here please (abbr.)

41. In a silly way

43. One from the Golden State

45. Photographers

48. Native religionn in parts of China

49. Dickens character

50. Brodway actress Daisy

55. Ancient Greek sophist

56. Undivided

57. Daniel __, French composer

59. Nocturnal S. American rodent

60. Rusty

61. Jewish spiritual leader

62. Patti Hearst’s captors

63. Popular global holiday (abbr.)

64. Tall, slender plant

DOWN

1. Defunct US energy company

2. Fellow

3. It’s issued from volcanoes

4. Type of acid

5. Winged nut

6. Arouses

7. Things are served on it

8. San Diego ball -

player

9. Currency and a Chinese dynasty

10. __ mater, one’s school

12. Exclamation that denotes disgust

14. Hairstyle

19. Supreme ancient Egyptian god

23. They __

24. Connecting line on a map

25. Mock

26. One point north of due east

27. Chinese philosophical principle

28. Type of tree

29. Persuade to do something

34. A place for travelers to rest

35. National Gallery of Art designer

36. Panamaniaan province

37. Field force unit (abbr.)

39. Whalers’ tool

40. Simply

41. Nigerian City

42. Not one

44. Obstruct

45. Political plot

on H Street.

August 2, 12:30 a.m.: Fight on Marine Drive.

August 2, 12:08 p.m.: Non-rape sex crime, no location given.

August 2, 8:28 p.m.: Burglary on H Street.

August 3, 6:55 a.m.: Traffic hazard on Pacific Highway.

August 3, 3:20 p.m.: Abandoned vehicle on H Street.

August 3, 6:10 p.m.: Traffic hazard on Birch Bay Lynden Road.

Report by Blaine Police Department

46. Manila hemp plant

47. Dough made from corn flour

48. Fishes by letting the bob fly

51. Swiss river

52. Plant that makes gum

53. A French abbot

54. One point east of northeast

58. Get free of

ANSWERS: THENORTHERNLIGHT.COM

Weather

Precipitation: During the period of July 31-August 6, no precipitation was recorded. The 2023 yearto-date precipitation is 11.8 inches.

Temperature: High for the past week was 82°F on August 3-4 with a low of 53°F on July 31 and August 2. Average high was 80°F and average low was 55°F.

Blaine Arts Council: Thursday, August 10, 6:30 p.m., Blaine Senior Center, 763 G Street. Kim Morris will speak on her work as a self-taught artist. Free. Info: blaineartscouncil.org.

Trivia at The Vault: Thursday, August 10, 7 p.m., The Vault Wine Bar + Bistro, 277 G Street. This week’s theme: general knowledge. Info: thevaultwine.com.

Coastal Observation and Seabird Survey Team Training: Friday, August 11, 10 a.m.–4 p.m., RE Sources main room, 2309 Meridian Street, Bellingham. Help make a difference for the environment with beached bird and marine debris training. Info: fb.me/e/CbyHM5Lx.

Northwest Steam Society 50th Anniversary Steamboat Meet: Friday, August 11, noon–5 p.m., Saturday, August 12, 8 a.m–5 p.m., Sunday, August 14, 8 a.m.–noon, Blaine Harbor. Steam car and steam boat rides and more. Free.

Live Music at the Park: Friday, August 11, 7 p.m., Birch Bay State Park wildlife theater. Come listen to the Big Band Sound, marching band tunes and more! Bring a chair and a picnic to enjoy an evening with music at the park.

Live Music at The Vault: Friday, August 11, 7 p.m., The Vault Wine Bar + Bistro, 277 G Street. Featuring: The Song Wranglers. Info: thevaultwine.com.

Tide Pool Exploration: Saturday, August 12, 9 a.m. Meet at Birch Bay State Park bp Heron Center. Explore the tide pools in Birch Bay State Park with a marine naturalist.

Garage Sale Fundraiser: Saturday, August 12, 9 a.m.–3 p.m., H Street and 6th Avenue. Kitchen wares, lines, clothing, games, books, furniture and more. All proceeds benefit P.E.O. Sisterhood Chapter J, in Blaine to help fund women’s education.

Blaine Senior Center Big Bucks Bingo: Saturday, August 12, noon–3 p.m., Blaine Senior Center, 763 G Street. Early bird starts at 12:30 p.m. Regular bingo at 1 p.m. Eight games $15. Lunch available for $8. Info: 360/332-8040. Caring for Seniors: Saturdays, August 12 and 19, 2 p.m., Blaine Library, 610 3rd Street. Two-part seminar about increasing the awareness of seniors and their family members. Highlighting pivot points in care management and to plan for their care. Presented by Lawrence Pang. Info: wcls.org. Sip and Paint Fundraiser: Saturday, August 12, 5–7 p.m., Birch Bay Vogt Library, 7948 Birch Bay Drive. Join local artists Doug Parent and learn how to paint a beautiful sunset. Cost: $50, includes supplies and charcuterie. Fundraiser for the Birch Bay Vogt Library Express project. Limited space available. Register: wcls.libcal.com/event/10608865.

Song and Sunflowers: Saturday, August 12, 6–9 p.m, Home Farm U-Pick & Events, 8020 Kickerville Road. A relaxing evening of natural beauty and song at the farm featuring Veronica North. Limited tickets available. Info: homefarm.farm.

Backstage @ The Border: Saturday, August 12, 7–9 p.m., Christ Episcopal Church, Boblett Street. Featuring Susan Mills and The Masked Bandits playing our favorite sing-along songs. Suggested donation $7 at the door but no one is turned away. Fundraiser for the Loads of Love laundry program.

Tide Pool Exploration: Tuesday, August 15, 11 a.m., meet at Birch Bay State Park bp Heron Center. Explore the tide pools in Birch Bay State Park with a marine naturalist.

Clamming/Crabbing 101: Wednesday, August 16, 11 a.m., meet at Birch Bay State Park bp Heron Center. Learn the basics for these recreational activities.

Blaine Chamber of Commerce Breakfast: Thursday, August 17, 7:30–8:30 a.m., Great Blue Heron Grill, 8720 Semiahmoo Parkway. RSVP: info@blainechamber.com.

Crabbing 101: Friday, August 18, 11 a.m., Birch Bay State Park bp Heron Center. Learn the rules and regulations for crabbing.

Junior Grooves at Library: Friday, August 18, 4 p.m., Blaine Library, 610 3rd Street. Learn where jazz comes from, how it works, and try your hand at making your own music. Info: wcls.org.

Ancient Archeology of Birch Bay: Saturday, August 19, 10 a.m., Meet at Birch Bay State Park bp Heron Center. Explore the ancient archaeology at State park with local archeologist. Learn about the Coast Salish peoples who in the past had summer long houses at Birch Bay State Park. Handbags for Housing Fundraiser: Saturday, August 19, 5–8 p.m., Fishermen’s Pavilion, 2599 S. Harbor Loop Drive, Bellingham. Enjoy an evening filled with a runway show, exclusive live handbag auction, live entertainment, beauty bar, cocktails and hors d’oeuvres, and shop-til-you-drop legendary Handbag Bazaar! Info: handbagsforhousing.com. Proceeds benefit Lydia Place. Whatcom Grooves Jazz Concert: Saturday, August 19, 7 p.m., Blaine Performing Arts Center. The Jazz Explosion late ensembles, led by jazz drummer/innovator Jerry Steinhilber and features some of the Pacific Northwest’s most in-demand artists. Reserve free seats at wcls.org/jazz. Community Spaghetti Dinner: Wednesday, August 23, 5 p.m., Blaine Senior Center, 763 G Street. Enjoy pasta with marinara or meat sauce, salad, Italian bread and more. Cost: $5. Info: blaineseniorcenter.org.

The Wave Art Studio Tour Opening Night Event: Friday, August 25, 6–9 p.m., Blaine Boating Center, 235 Marine Drive. Reception, refreshments, silent auction and wine pull. Tickets at blaineartscouncil.org.

The Wave Art Studio Tour: Saturday and Sunday, August 26 and 27, 10 a.m.–5 p.m. Free self-guided tour at private studios, the Blaine Boating Center and the Blaine Senior Center Pavilion. For a tour map, visit blaineartscouncil.com.

Love the Library Fun Run: Saturday, August 26, 9 a.m., Birch Bay north berm entry (Cottonwood Avenue and Birch Bay Drive). 5K Run Run/Walk on the berm. $25 for 13 and up, $14 for 12 and under. Register at wcls. org/events. Fundraiser for the Birch Bay Vogt Library Express.

Birch Bay Derby Day: Saturday, August 26. A day of family fun with a parade down Birch Bay Drive at 10 a.m., vendor market behind The Beach at Birch Bay from 11 a.m.–5 p.m., poker run from noon–2 p.m., rubber duck derby in Terrell Creek at 3 p.m., and crab derby. Register for the events and purchase ducks at birchbaychamber.com.

Summer Fun in the Park: Saturday, August 26, 5:30–8:30 p.m., Blaine Marine Park playground. Fun for the whole family with food trucks, beer and wine garden and live music by Family Therapy. Sponsored by Jen Free- man and Leah Crews of Windermere Real Estate.

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

Steam boat ...

From page 1

50 years ago, Dave said.

Today, even though steam society membership is lower than where the Hogans would like, they get plenty of comments when they take their one-of-akind vessels out on the water.

“We would take our boat and go down to the lake, and it would take us an hour and a half to launch because of the interest people would show,” Bonnie said. In addition to sharing their collection with the Blaine community, the steamers hope to send a message to anyone interested in connecting with a regional group of steam hobbyists.

“We’re trying to stir a little bit of interest,” Dave said, adding that most members are in their retirement ages and it would be nice to see more young people involved.

At one time, the large fleet of hobbyist steamers in Whatcom

County was endearingly called “The Mafia,” but now, Dave said, he’s watching his community shrink as members age and overall technological advancements charge ahead.

Some of the steam society’s boats were built over 100 years ago and, aside from navigation upgrades, still use the original machinery. Others have embraced modernity and offer more automated controls.

This year’s steam meet theme is “Remembering the past, inspiring the future.”

“Our goal is to get that through to the younger generation that it doesn’t have to all be ancient machinery,” Bonnie said.

When people ask Dave how fast his steamboat goes, he tells them it’s not about miles per hour, but about enjoyment per mile. He said the steamboat engine is closer to a human heartbeat than any other engine, allowing for a sense of peace on – and below – the water.

“We’ve had people have experi-

ences where the fish come up close to them, the seals will come up and poke their head around,” Bonnie said. “It’s not a harsh piercing sound, so they’re curious about it.”

The Hogans said it’s not unheard of for visitors to be invited out on the water if they arrive before the steamers launch. Don’t be bashful, Dave said; those hoping for a ride should ask.

Owning a steamboat has been more than a hobby, Dave said. It’s education.

“The steamboat is what the boater wants. It’s their own creation,” he said. “We’re working with wood, fiberglass, steel and welding. There are so many different trades involved in putting it together.”

As the steam society celebrates

its semicentennial steam meet, part of the steamboat’s appeal for Dave is the timeless simplicity.

“What are some of the necessities of life? Water. Fire,” he said. “It has that.”

Information about annual membership, upcoming events and quarterly publications are available on the steam society’s website northweststeamsociety.org.

s A Northwest Steam Society member takes their boat on the water in an archived photo. The steam society’s 50th annual public event is Friday, August 11 through Sunday, August 13, and will feature 16 steamboats, models and memorabilia in Blaine Harbor. Courtesy photo

s A Northwest Steam Society boat docked in Blaine Harbor on August 8. The group will show off their steam boats at Gate 2 in Blaine Harbor on Friday from noon to 5 p.m., Saturday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sunday from 8 a.m. to noon. Memorabilia will also be on display during those times at the Blaine Harbor Boating Center, 235 Marine Drive.

Plover ferry runs out of restoration funds

Drayton Harbor Maritime (DHM), the nonprofit in charge of restoring the historic Plover passenger ferry, has taken a hiatus from repair work after depleting the funding it received from Blaine City Council.

Plover captain Richard Sturgill said the U.S. Coast Guard required additional repairs that went above the city’s original budget. Sturgill said DHM will ask city council for additional funds during its Monday, August 14 meeting.

The U.S. Coast Guard discovered the repairs last fall that need

to be made before the ferry could continue trips between Blaine Harbor and Semiahmoo Spit. Sturgill has previously said the repairs are more extensive than the original restoration in the ’90s, requiring extensive work to the boat’s hull, keel and bow.

Last December, city council gave DHM $30,000 to repair the ferry. Sturgill said the Plover now needs an additional $58,000 to finish restoration, making the total $88,000.

The Plover crew realized a couple of months ago that repairs would go over budget, Sturgill said.

Photo by Madisun Tobisch