The Northern Light: September 7-13, 2023

September 7 - 13, 2023

Community Newspaper of Blaine and Birch Bay

Orcas spotted in Semiahmoo Bay, page 2

Famed architect talks Blaine home, city vision

B y M adisun T o B isch

Nestled in the lettered streets of Blaine is a home unlike others – this one was designed by a world-famous architect.

Canadian-born Bruno Freschi, best known for his role as the chief architect for Vancouver’s Expo 86, envisioned his one-story home as an artist’s escape, complete with an attached carport, modern landscaping, covered outdoor seating area and a detached guest house that doubles as a “his and hers” art studio.

In this home they have dubbed “paradise,” Freschi and his wife of over 35 years, Vaune Ainsworth, lead a life of creativity, wonder and desire.

“We’re both painting. To me, that’s an escape. I’m writing, painting, drawing and sometimes the odd architectural thing that I have to do,” Freschi said. “We created this little piece of paradise for that reason, and the pandemic came along. Thank God we had it. Fortunately, we finished just before. We were very lucky.”

The home itself is gallery-like, showcasing memories, creative works and an abundance of Ainsworth’s tchotchkes collected from around the globe. In her office, where she runs her licensed therapy and coaching practice based out of Washington and D.C., carved hands, eyes and faces look on from nearly every shelf.

In the main room, light pours in from large south-facing windows that frame the open backyard space. A pergola with seating and curtains sits on a concrete slab, encircled by a sea of blue glass stones.

A walkway leads straight through the yard to the pair’s side-by-side art studios and guest house. In the few years since Freschi and Ainsworth moved in, their creative work is already evident from floor to ceiling.

Ainsworth created an entirely new body of work in her abstract style. One room over, Freschi’s work area is filled with completed and in-progress journals. He said he has slowed down on ar-

(See Freschi, page 15)

Run with the Chums on September 9, page 5

Borderite football lose first game, page 7

Blaine area businesses experience range of impacts from fewer border crossings

This June rang in the first summer without restrictions on the U.S./Canada border with the lifting of mandatory proof of Covid-19 vaccination for those entering the U.S. Years of travel restrictions left a mark on some of the businesses closest to the border. Without Covid-era requirements in place, no two business recoveries have looked the same.

The Peace Arch crossing is the busiest in Washington state, seeing over 120 per-

cent more U.S. entries than Point Roberts, which has the second-highest crossing volume, according to the U.S. Department of Transportation.

In July, the Peace Arch border crossing had 311,087 personal vehicles traveling into the U.S., about 73,000 fewer than the same month in 2019, according to the U.S. Department of Transportation.

In Point Roberts, July 2023 crossing data from the U.S. Department of Transportation shows a 25.7 percent decrease from July 2019.

Crossing data shows commercial trucks

WDFW plans to trap black bears seen in Blaine

B y G race M c c ar T hy

Washington State Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW) officers are setting several traps in the Blaine area for one mother black bear and two cubs reportedly digging in people’s garbage. The bears will then be assessed as to whether they can be relocated or need to be euthanized. The three black bears were first reported to WDFW in the Maple Falls area on August 23, WDFW communications specialist Becky Elder said. WDFW received

a call several days later that the bears were located 20 miles away.

The bears appear to have traveled to Ferndale, Custer and now Blaine, where they have most recently been sighted, Elder said. WDFW has received 20 to 30 reports as they have moved westward.

Human garbage is the key indicator for the bears’ movement, Elder said.

“They’re opportunistic and are taking the opportunity to get into wherever they can receive a free meal,” she said.

Custer resident Peter Svedin said he’s

lived near Valley View and Behme roads his entire life and seeing scat was the closest thing he’s come to ever seeing a bear on his property until he saw the mother black bear and cubs while he was working on equipment over the weekend.

Blaine resident Vickie Jones Young said her family watched from their upstairs window as the bears ate garbage in their backyard, near Red Cedar Road, about 7:30 p.m. September 2.

have stayed close to pre-pandemic volumes. So far in 2023, there is a monthly average of 30,065 commercial trucks compared to an average of 30,800 in 2019. Canada lifted its final U.S. border travel restrictions last October when it stopped requiring proof of vaccination upon entry. As a result, the number of travelers entering the U.S. rose during a season when numbers traditionally begin to wind down from the summer, said Laurie Trautman,

(See Border, page 6)

(See Bears, page 3) This Week’s FLYERS FSI Save

s Sardis Raptor Center volunteers gave a “Hunters of the Sky” presentation at the Birch Bay State Park wildlife theater on September 2. The Ferndale-based animal protection organization hosts the program at the state park during the summer to provide education on birds of prey, such as eagles, hawks and owls.

Photo by Jana Turner

Road Rules: When can police vehicles speed?

B y d ou G d ahl

Question: Is it lawful for police vehicles to exceed posted speed limits without having their emergency signals activated?

Answer: Years ago in a former career I was a freshly minted dep-

uty sheriff, ready to protect and serve, and set a good example of safe driving. I made a commitment to always follow the speed limit. It did not take long to discover that a few other drivers I shared the road with did not have that same commitment. My com-

mute to work included a good stretch of freeway driving, and you can guess what would happen (but I’ll tell you anyway.)

I’d see a car approaching in my rear-view mirror and know the

(See Road Rules page 13)

Orcas sighted in Semiahmoo Bay

s A pod of orcas were spotted in Semiahmoo Bay about 7:35 p.m. September 1. Alisa Lemire Brooks, whale sighting network coordinator for Orca Network, said the whales were Bigg’s killer whales, also known as transient orcas, but could not identify the pod. Brooks said Orca Network doesn’t typically receive reports of transient orcas in Semiahmoo Bay but the area is close to a transit route. Transient orcas eat sea mammals such as harbor seals, sea lions and porpoises.

• Reservations are required and space is limited.

• Refreshments and a picnic lunch provided.

• Only those with RSVPs will be admitted.

• Photo ID required. Event is outdoors rain or shine.

If you have trouble using the QR code, please visit https://bit.ly/BPCP23 or call (360) 371-1500 during these hours: Mon-Thurs 7:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. Fri 7:30 a.m. - 2:00 p.m.

Photos by Corinne Russell

Bears ...

From page 1

Elder said it’s not uncommon to see black bears in the Blaine and Custer area, especially if food is available, but it’s also not a place where WDFW frequently observes bears.

As of August 5, WDFW had set up one trap and were transporting a few more to deploy, though Elder declined to give the trap locations. Once trapped, WDFW officers will assess the health, age and whether they have been picked up before.

Bears are difficult to relocate once they’ve become habituated to humans, Elder said.

“It’s our last option,” she said of removal. “We would love to not have any bears where we need to trap and assess but unfortunately that will probably be the next step.”

Elder said the most important thing people can do is remove food and other attractants, which black bears can smell from over a mile away.

WDFW recommends the following to avoid black bear-human interaction:

• Don’t feed bears or other wildlife.

• Keep garbage cans in a garage or building until collection day.

• Take down bird seed, suet and hummingbird feeders until late fall.

• Clean up fallen fruit or other attractants around your home.

• Remove pet food and feed pets inside.

• Clean barbecue grills after each use and store them inside.

• Cage and electric fence domestic fowl and livestock pens.

• Don’t store food in cars. People who see bears should clap their hands loudly and shoo it

away. Call 911 to report emergency predatory wildlife incidents. For non-emergency predatory wildlife incidents, call 877/9339847, submit a report at wdfw. wa.gov/about/enforcement/report or text tip to 847411 (TIP411).

s A mother black bear eating garbage in a backyard on Red Cedar Road in Blaine about 7:30 p.m. September 2. Photo by Izzy Young

s A mother black bear and a cub near Valley View and Behme roads in Custer.

Photo by Peter Svedin

The Northern L ght

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

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

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

Letters Policy

The Northern Light welcomes letters to the editor. Please include name, address and daytime telephone number for verification. Letters are limited to 350 words and may be edited or rejected for reasons of legality, length and good taste. The letters to the editor column is primarily intended to allow readers to voice their opinions on local issues of general interest to local readers. A fresh viewpoint will increase the likelihood of publication. Thank-you letters are limited to five individuals or groups. Writers should avoid personal invective. Unsigned letters will not be accepted for publication. Requests for withholding names will be considered on an individual basis. Consumer complaints should be submitted directly to the business in question or the local chamber of commerce. Only one letter per month from an individual correspondent will be published. Email letters to letters@thenorthernlight.com.

Publisher & Managing Editor Patrick Grubb publisher@pointrobertspress.com

Co-publisher & Advertising Director Louise Mugar lmugar@pointrobertspress.com

Editor Grace McCarthy grace@pointrobertspress.com

Reporter Nolan Baker nolan@pointrobertspress.com

Editorial Intern Madisun Tobisch prpintern@pointrobertspress.com

Creative Services

Doug De Visser, Ruth Lauman production@pointrobertspress.com

Office Manager Jeanie Luna info@pointrobertspress.com

Advertising Sales Molly Ernst, Gary Lee sales@pointrobertspress.com

General Editorial Inquiries editor@pointrobertspress.com

Contributors In This Issue

Doug Dahl, Jonathan Jakobitz, William Lombard, Dianne Marrs-Smith

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

Tel: 360/332-1777

Vol XXVIII, No 13

Circulation: 10,500 copies

Circulation Independently verified by:

Next issue: Sept. 14

Ads due: Sept. 8

Live music in Birch Bay State Park OpiniOn Letters

The Editor:

Ahoy there, good citizens of Blaine! In case you have wondered whether ‘tis true or not, pirates are indeed alive and well in Drayton Harbor. Yes, with all the crab they steal from the crab pots of recreational crabbers in the area who conscientiously buy their licenses, buy their own crab pots, rope and floats, pay their fees at the boat launch, and drop their pots in the waters of Drayton Harbor in the fond hopes of taking home a couple of crab for dinner, Drayton Harbor’s pirates are alive and eating well.

I do not exaggerate. Everyone we know who goes out on the water has their own story to tell of having left their crab pots overnight and returned (having paid another launch fee), only to pull up a completely empty pot, bait eaten by the crab lured in, but the crab removed by the stealthy pirates. In our own experience, whether having left the pots out overnight or just having motored around the area for an hour, our crab pots have been robbed. Friends of ours have not only had the crab stolen, but the pots and all as well. Some have decided to give up the hunt.

While the brazen pirates are dining on what was to be our dinner, I’m afraid the whole situation has left us with a bad taste in our mouths, nowhere near the delicious taste we had anticipated of Drayton Harbor Dungeness crab dipped in butter.

Andy Stampley Blaine

The Editor:

Volunteerism is a tradition in Blaine, with Blaine Food Bank, Friends of Blaine Library, and Blaine Music Festival (Pacific Arts Association) serving as shining examples. Even Blaine City Council is a volunteer position paid a small stipend for attending meetings.

To revitalize volunteerism as current volunteers age, we need to recruit new younger residents. Toward that end, I suggest holding a volunteer fair at Blaine Community Center as part of a series of public information sessions to help newcomers become acquainted with our town.

One project that holds promise is to start a Blaine civic improvement group to work with city hall on public engagement, start-

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: Meetings are second Tues-

ing with a visioning process to reimagine our civic center as a vibrant hub for cultural enrichment of residents and visitors alike, with a new library, affordable housing and arts center. To do this, we need to pull together.

Jay Taber Blaine

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

Correction

In the August 31 issue of The Northern Light, an article titled, “School district plans for levy on February ballots,” incorrectly stated the vote percentage needed to pass a maintenance and operations levy. A M&O levy needs a simple majority (50 percent plus one vote).

We regret the error.

day, 5:30 p.m., location varies. Info: bbbparkandrec.org.

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

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

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

s The DeVillies, an Irish-American folk band from Bellingham, performed at the bp Heron Center in Birch Bay State Park September 3 as part of Friends of Birch Bay State Park’s free Music in the Park series.

Photo by Jana Turner

Run with the Chums 5K race to celebrate Whatcom Water Week

Run with the Chums will kick off Whatcom Water Week on Saturday, September 9 at BP Highlands, 6898 Point Whitehorn Road.

The annual 5K fun run and youth smolt sprint will return for its 11th year. Check-in is at 8:30 a.m., the smolt obstacle sprint (ages 10 and under) starts at 9:45 a.m. and the 5K starts at 10 a.m., according to a Whatcom Conservation District release.

The race will highlight the importance of water quality with facts along the course while offering views of Point Whitehorn and Birch Bay. Booths from local organizations will also provide education and entertainment at the event. Prizes will be raffled. Run with the Chums will be the first event of Whatcom Water Week, which runs September

9 through Sunday, September 17. The week-long celebration of local water resources will have a variety of activities and challenges for people to participate in.

Water week activities include Family Field Day at the bp Heron Center at Birch Bay State Park, where beach naturalists will identify and provide education on beach organisms, 9–11 a.m. Monday, September 11. Washington State University Whatcom County Extension will also start the first class of its five-part green gardening course at the bp Heron Center from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. on Saturday, September 16.

For a full list of Whatcom Water Week events, visit whatcomwin.org/water-week-events. To register for Run with the Chums, visit whatcomcd.org/run-withthe-chums.

MEMBERS FOR THE FOLLOWING BOARD, COMMITTEE, OR COMMISSION:

PARK AND CEMETERY BOARD

REGULARLY MEETS AT 9:00 AM ON THE SECOND THURSDAY OF EVERY MONTH FOR ABOUT AN HOUR AND A HALF

FOUR POSITIONS TO BE FILLED WITH TERM ENDING 12/2026

PLANNING COMMISSION

REGULARLY MEETS AT 9:00 AM ON THE SECOND THURSDAY OF EVERY MONTH

ONE POSITION TO FILL A PARTIAL TERM ENDING 12/31/2023

Members of boards, committees and commissions receive no financial compensation, but the payoff is great. Members meet other residents with similar interests, they learn about the City, and they help shape the future of Blaine!

Being on a board, committee or commission does require a significant personal commitment, so applicants should consider their ability to commit their time and personal energy before applying.

If you are interested in serving on a board or commission, applications and descriptions of duties are available online at www.cityofblaine.com. Positions will remain open until filled. Per Blaine Municipal Code (BMC) 2.08.028, concurrent service on more than one board or commission is precluded.

9/11 memorial

planned under the Peace Arch

Motorcyclists, dignitaries, and cross-border first responders will meet under the Peace Arch at 11 a.m. Monday, September 11 to remember those who lost their lives in the 9/11 terror attacks.

Hundreds of motorcyclists will start the memorial by riding from the Cascades Casino Delta in Delta, B.C. to the Peace Arch, said Guy Morrall, event organizer for

the motorcycle ride. The group will leave the casino at 9:30 a.m.

Local first responders and dignitaries from both the U.S. and Canada are expected to meet the motorcyclists under the Peace Arch for the 11 a.m. ceremony, Morrall said.

For more information on the motorcycle ride, visit facebook. com/911MemorialRideBC.

WCSO shares tips during National Preparedness Month this September

Professionals and volunteers who respond to emergencies –from fires to flooding – prepare year-round to act quickly to lessen the impact of disasters on the people, property, economy and environment of Whatcom County. The rest of us have a vital role to play as well. September is National Preparedness Month.

Throughout September, Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office (WCSO) Division Emergency Management (DEM) will share practical ways to prepare for emergencies. These will be offered on WhatcomReady.org and Whatcom Ready’s Facebook and X (Twitter) accounts.

In a natural disaster or widespread emergency, the county must respond to the needs of more than 200,000 residents spread over hundreds of square miles. It could be hours or several days before help arrives in some areas. That means it’s essential for you to be prepared and able to help those around you.

During September Emergency Preparedness Month, Whatcom

Ready will share information that can help you be ready, such as:

• WhatcomReady.org is the county’s site for emergency preparedness and response information

• How to sign up for emergency notifications

• The resources to trust

• What to include in an emergency kit

• Opportunities for volunteering

“The increasing incidents of emergencies, either natural or manmade, require that first responders and other emergency professionals and volunteers are prepared to respond and support our communities during these disasters,” said Whatcom County undersheriff Doug Chadwick.

“It is also important that community members know what is being done and how they can be better prepared to protect themselves, their families and their neighbors. It is our hope that Whatcom Ready can be a one-stop site for residents to find information about current incidents, preparedness and response plans.”

Courtesy Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office

Whatcom County Council discusses BBWARM, new Lummi ferry funding

Whatcom County Council held only one meeting over the month of August, on August 8. The council discussed a swath of issues facing the region, and a few issues pertaining directly to Blaine, Birch Bay and the north county.

In a unanimous 7-0 consent, the council authorized the entrance into a contract between the county and FCS Group, a municipal construction company, to conduct a rate study and funding analysis for the Birch Bay Watershed and Aquatic Resources Management (BBWARM) District. The cost of the initial study was set at $61,440.

BBWARM was created as a way to provide supplemental funding for Birch Bay’s stormwater management after community concerns arose over water quality, flooding and aquatic habitat loss.

The next advisory committee for BBWARM will be held 6-8 p.m. October 18 at the Birch Bay Chamber of Commerce Visitor Information Center, 4819 Alderson Rd, Unit 103. Meeting minutes, documents and virtual participation links can be found at the advisory committee website at bit. ly/3EuXzzk.

The council also discussed approaches to expand broadband internet services around the county, especially to ru -

ral regions like the Mt. Baker foothills and northern unincorporated regions and allocating American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funding to assist in county Search and Rescue efforts to fund a new building in Everson. The council voted 6-1 to approve the motion and begin discussion of using $1.1 million in ARPA and other funds.

Much discussion was had over funding for a new Lummi Island ferry, and an upgrade to the dock terminal. The council held a brief, 40-minute special meeting on September 5, discussing county executive Satpal Sidhu’s veto of an ordinance amending the ferry rate.

“My veto is not intended to be confrontational, my veto is about the process,” Sidhu said in his executive statement.

“Our citizens were given certain expectations, which in my understanding, were not met.”

The current ferry, the Whatcom Chief, is a 60-year-old vessel in dire need of replacement. In August 2022, the U.S. Department of Transportation granted the county a $25 million RAISE grant to replace the ferry with an electric-battery hybrid ferry.

Puget Sound Energy conducted a power grid feasibility study this summer, and recommended changes to the electric infrastructure that could cost anywhere between a few hundred thousand dollars to $1.1 million.

Blaine board, commission and committee vacancies

Border ...

From page 1

director of Western Washington University’s Border Policy Research Institute.

What looked like an initial return to pre-pandemic travel patterns did not remain.

Despite restrictions ending, Trautman said she isn’t too surprised at the slow return of border crossings.

“People probably haven’t fully resumed those pre-pandemic behaviors, and maybe they won’t, we don’t know,” Trautman said.

For some Blaine and Birch Bay businesses, the effects of the pandemic border restrictions are no longer impactful, even if crossing numbers are not where they once were.

Jordan Comstock, manager of 24/7 Parcel, said the business braced itself for anything when Canada eased its restrictions last year. With about 99 percent of business coming from in-person Canadian clientele, he said border crossings are critical for operation.

“There was a big wave initially and then things slowed down,” Comstock said. “We weren’t really sure if people were going to be comfortable crossing again.”

were in a period of change, according to previous reporting from The Northern Light Several storefronts closed their operations while others shifted ownership and decreased staffing and hours. The closure of 5dpackages in October 2022 resulted in hundreds – if not thousands – of new clients, Comstock said.

The result has been a return to pre-pandemic levels of business, he said.

Recent gas tax revenues for the city of Blaine show one area that has not recovered and maybe never will, said city finance director Daniel Heverling.

As of September 6, the city’s gas tax revenue has collected about $48,400. In 2019, the gas tax brought in nearly $170,800.

“Sales tax has recovered. Tourism has recovered,” Heverling said. “It’s just the gas tax.”

He proposed two possible reasons for the lack of recovery to the gas tax revenue, which funds road maintenance.

Canadians are driving more hybrid and electric cars than ever before, and those who do need to fill up their tanks are likely bypassing Blaine and stopping at the Lummi Bay Market where gas costs less, Heverling said.

Blaine’s 2022 lodging tax reached the second highest on record. Previous reporting from The Northern Light attributed some of the high revenue to the domestic travel Semiahmoo Resort received.

Birch Bay Bikes owner John Roy said despite offering rentals and repairs to locals and tourists alike, it has been the Birch Bay community that has stepped up and kept him busy since opening in March 2023.

“It has really been the local community that has made it work,” Roy said.

John Quimod, co-owner of the Peace Arch City Café in downtown Blaine, echoed that local support in an email explaining that annual revenue has improved year over year despite the border restrictions.

In 2022, Blaine was the third busiest Canadian border crossing in the nation and 15th out of all U.S. entry points, according to the U.S. Department of Transportation’s Bureau of Transportation Statistics.

B y n olan B aker All three positions open at the park and cemetery board are for full terms, each ending on December 31, 2026. The park and cemetery board meets at 9 a.m. for one and a half hour meetings on the second Thursday of every month.

About the same time late last year that the border restrictions loosened, Blaine mailbox stores

Some businesses have seen a wave of domestic tourism help offset the loss of annual visitors from north of the border, Trautman said.

“I think that will continue to have a slow recovery toward pre-pandemic volumes,” Trautman said. “Given population growth, both in the Lower Mainland and in Whatcom County, it’s not going to take long before our volumes increase beyond what they were.”

Multiple municipal board, commission and committee positions remain vacant throughout Blaine’s government, according to a release on the city of Blaine’s website.

In Blaine, the planning commission has one open position, the park and cemetery board has three seats sitting vacant and the public works advisory committee has one opening.

The planning commission holds regular meetings at 6 p.m. on the second Thursday of every month, and the position will finish a partial term ending on December 31, 2023.

Faith and Fun

The public works advisory committee meets at 10:30 a.m. on the second Tuesday of every month, and the remaining position will fill a full term ending December 31, 2026.

Applications for those interested can be found at bit. ly/3r6EGzt. Certain boards, commission and committee seats require applicants to be residents of Blaine.

For kids kindergarten-5th grade

Starts September 13

After School • 3-4:30 pm St. Anne Church, 604 H Street • Blaine

Everyone Welcome! • Free! • Info call: 360-319-3643

Semiahmoo residents donate to Maui

s Semiahmoo Shore residents collected $1,800 in donations for Maui United Way, which will directly support the people impacted by the Maui fire.

Photo courtesy Lisa Sprague

Borderites drop season opener to Port Angeles, 44-21

B

y n olan B aker

The Blaine Borderites suffered a tough season opener, falling to the Port Angeles Rough Riders, 44-21.

Costly mistakes on offense, including four first-half turnovers, knocked the Borderites out of the game seemingly before it began. Possession issues, combined with a multitude of pre-snap penalties, made it difficult for first-year coach Andy Olson to implement his new spread offense scheme.

“The first week of running a spread offense is either going to be amazing or you’re going to be running all over the place,” Olson said. “For these guys, this is a completely different [offense].”

Blaine’s first possession was quickly interrupted when junior quarterback Colin Davis threw an interception, allowing Port Angeles to march into the red zone. Senior defensive tackle Victor Gervol forced a goal line fumble, but the Borderites were unable to get out of its own end zone, conceding a safety. A few plays later, Port Angeles scored on a long touchdown pass to go up 9-0.

Senior Riley Ihde generated the only first half points for the Borderites on a one-yard QB sneak. But after multiple penalties and turnovers, Blaine went into halftime down 30-9.

In his first halftime talk to the new team, Olson said Blaine had to come to terms with its revamped identity under the new coaching regime.

“We talked at halftime [asking ourselves], ‘What team do we want to be?’” Olson said. “Do we want to be the team that’s going to just throw in the towel and get rolled over, or are we going to come out and compete for the full 48 minutes? I think our effort and our energy was there.”

As if to prove that football isn’t like the movies and halftime speeches aren’t magic, the Borderites immediately conceded a

kickoff return touchdown to Port Angeles, and trailed 37-7 just seconds into the half.

But Blaine finally looked confident and comfortable in the new spread offense, with Davis connecting with Ihde for two fourth quarter touchdowns.

Ihde played well on both sides of the ball, leading the offense with six receptions for 113 yards, and leading the defense with 7.5 tackles. Junior linebacker Blake Koreski showed out on defense with a forced fumble, interception and six tackles.

The Borderites were only able to generate 29 rushing yards on 27 attempts, but the passing offense looked to be in good shape by the fourth quarter, tallying 215 yards through the air. Ultimately, Olson said, the Borderites were its own biggest enemy on Friday.

“In many ways, we beat ourselves,” Olson said. “Sometimes the lights come on and the fans are in the stands and we get distracted. We’ve got to be a little more mentally tough in that regard.”

The final score of 44-21 may not look encouraging, but Olson said these early days in the season are all about learning and adjusting.

“I always believe that the most growth in regards to things you can control happens between week one and week two,” Olson said. “So we have a great opportunity in front of us.”

The Borderites now go on the road to face Sehome High School at Civic Stadium in Bellingham on Friday, September 7 at 7 p.m.

Statistics provided by Whatcompreps.com

s Port Angeles junior wide receiver Blake Sohlberg runs past Blaine senior defensive back Jesse Deming on a long touchdown pass in the first quarter of Port Angeles’ 44-21 win over Blaine on September 1.

Photo by Nolan Baker

s Senior Port Angeles running back Kason Albaugh fumbles on the goal line during the first quarter against Blaine on September 1.

Photo by Nolan Baker

s Port Angeles junior defensive back Blake Sohlberg returns a first quarter interception against Blaine during the Borderite’s opening football game September 1.

Photo by Nolan Baker

Health & Wellness Local choices in health, healing & fitness.

What to eat and when? These tips from a PeaceHealth dietitian can fine-tune your race plan

been eating during training. Some examples: dried fruit (apricots, plums, bananas, strawberries, fig) bars, peanut butter and jelly, sweet potatoes, waffles and gels, which are typically made from a blend of sugars without any fat, fiber or protein. They are designed to replenish carb stores and glycogen that are depleted when running. With gels especially, you should use them in training and consume them in intervals like your plan for race day to make sure you can tolerate them. An alternative to gels could be sports drinks with easily digestible sugars.

Q: How much water should I drink during a race?

A: Try to prioritize balanced snacks and meals with protein and complex carbs because they both support proper recovery by repairing muscle and replenishing glycogen stores. Consuming food within 30 to 60 minutes post-exercise is optimal.

Generally, we lose one to five pounds of sweat per hour while exercising, depending on weather conditions. A general rule of thumb for fluids post-race is drinking 125 percent of the fluids you lost during physical activity. Chocolate milk can be a great, quick grab-and-go snack post-exercise.

Are you planning to run the Bellingham Bay Marathon or another long-distance race? We asked PeaceHealth St. Joseph Medical Center dietitian Victoria Witrak, RD, for advice on the right fuel to get you to the finish line, prevent injury and help you recover.

Q: What foods should I avoid when preparing for a marathon?

A: I should start with saying that a big takeaway when it comes to nutrition and training, is that everyone’s metabolic needs and race goals are different.

I am constantly working with patients on changing our narrative around food restriction and thinking about how we can add more nourishing foods vs. taking foods away. The only solid recommendation I have is to avoid adding a totally new food within the week prior to race day. Leading up to this week, make sure you’ve been eating the foods you plan to consume day-of, so your body is used to them. You might also want to consider eliminating alcohol one to a few weeks prior

to the race as alcohol is an inflammatory and can further deplete crucial minerals and electrolytes.

Q: What is “carb-loading” and when should I do it?

A: Carbohydrates are our primary source of fuel burned during prolonged exercise, so eating carb-rich foods before race day can help maximize your glycogen – the source of stored energy in the liver. Inadequate glycogen stores on race day can lead to unnecessary fatigue and decreased endurance. Carb-loading involves consuming a higher amount of carbs than normal two to three days leading up to the race. A general rule of thumb is to aim for at least three grams of carbohydrates per one pound bodyweight with a max of five, depending on individual and training needs.

Q: On the morning of a big race when and what should I eat and drink?

A: I recommend a carb- and protein-rich breakfast two to three hours prior to start time. Try to eat at least 50 grams of

Hi, I’m Chuck!

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

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

carbs in this meal. An example would be two pieces of toast with nut butter and one banana. Then eat a carb-rich snack 15 to 30 minutes before racing, such as a pureed fruit pouch.

In terms of fluid, try to consume 16 to 20 ounces with electrolytes before a race. It’s important to emphasize here that you should start your race properly hydrated and not even slightly dehydrated. Hydration and electrolytes during training becomes just as important as your fuel plan. Only consider drinking coffee if you’re used to it, and don’t go overboard, as it can cause GI upset and is also a diuretic.

Q: What should I eat during a run?

A: There is significant evidence for the benefits of consuming carbs and limiting fat and fiber during intense exercise, especially if exercising more than two hours and starting carb intake within the first hour. Consider consuming around 30 to 60 grams of carbs per hour. Eating carbs during exercise also helps drive water into the cells.

As mentioned before, you should be eating foods you have

A: Losing up to two percent body weight through sweat/dehydration when exercising is enough to reduce performance so hydration during exercise becomes really important. You should consider also consuming electrolytes such as sodium, potassium, magnesium and chloride, as these are used inside and outside the cell so we can essentially use our muscles. A rough recommendation during races is around 16 ounces of water and/ or electrolytes and at least 300 milligrams per hour, depending on how much you sweat.

There is also an equation called the Galpin equation that is tailored more for the individual where you essentially take body weight in pounds and divide it by 30. The number you get is what you consume in ounces every 15 to 20 minutes.

Q: Is there such a thing as drinking too much water?

A: Yes, and this can lead to hyponatremia (low sodium), which – if it gets too low – can be fatal. This is not to scare runners away from drinking water, but you should aim for a safe middle-ground in your strategies, as discussed above.

Q: What should I eat and drink after the race to help me recover?

If you’re someone with a sensitive stomach, it’s recommended limiting foods that could cause you GI upset. Some common culprits include high fructose/hypertonic food/drink, fat, fiber, sugar alcohols and cruciferous vegetables (broccoli, cauliflower, cabbage).

Q: Why do some runners throw up right after a race, and is there a way to prevent it?

A: This can happen for several reasons, including not prioritizing the digestive system during training and not being accustomed to eating during intense exercise. Another factor may be the ingestion of too many energy gels with not enough water, imbalanced hydration or too much acidic food. Sometimes intra-abdominal pressure from high intensity running can create a squeezing mechanism on the stomach, causing the runner to throw up.

Victoria Witrak, a casual runner herself, earned her master’s degree in nutrition and dietetics from Bastyr University in Seattle, then completed a distance internship through the University of Texas – Houston with rotations in the University of Washington system. She has a special interest in sports medicine and gut health.

This article was first printed in Mount Baker Experience, a quarterly outdoor magazine published by Point Roberts Press.

File photo

Health & Wellness Local choices in health, healing

Our moonshot: Eliminate the kidney transplant waitlist

tial to high-quality treatment for people with ESRD, but the best treatment option for many patients is a kidney transplant from a living donor, ideally before they require dialysis.

One in three American adults is at risk for chronic kidney disease (CKD) – it is a silent epidemic that affects over 37 million people in the U.S.; over 80 percent of people with the disease are undiagnosed and untreated. Early detection can slow the progression of the disease and, in some cases, prevent it.

Knowing that you are at risk because of diabetes, hypertension or a family history hopefully leads to appropriately frequent testing of kidney function and urine testing for protein.

of living kidney donation will decrease reliance on dialysis, which is the most expensive and highrisk form of kidney replacement therapy. In the Pacific Northwest, the typical wait time for a kidney transplant is three to five years.

People typically receive kidneys by being matched with a deceased donor from the transplant waiting list. The less common way to receive a kidney is through a living donor such as a family member, friend, or, increasingly from an altruistic stranger.

A living donor is preferred because there is no waiting and you come off dialysis or are transplanted before dialysis is started. Patients live longer and have better quality lives with a kidney transplant than on dialysis. But living donors are hard to come by – we can change that. Let’s become the first county in the nation to eliminate the kidney transplant waiting list.

We have two kidneys and only need one.

Let’s shoot for the moon.

Kidney failure, also known as End Stage Renal Disease (ESRD), is a difficult road under the best of circumstances. For kidney failure patients living in Blaine, Birch Bay, Semiahmoo, Point Roberts and other north county areas, traveling to Bellingham three times a week for a four-hour dialysis treatment, is even more arduous.

Though home dialysis modalities are ideal in these circumstances, many people, for various reasons, are not able to use them.

Access to dialysis is essen-

Our Pacific Northwest region has a history of innovation in kidney research and dialysis with a legacy of mission-driven care to individuals with CKD. Outpatient dialysis, including home dialysis, was first performed in Seattle.

With over 550,000 people in the U.S. on dialysis, and about 170 in Whatcom County, we must strengthen our education and awareness programs about renal disease and its under-detected progression so that we can decrease the high burdens on patients, families, the healthcare system and society.

Successfully increasing the rate

Nationally, there are about 96,000 people on the kidney transplant waitlist, with 1,399 in Washington state. In Whatcom County, there are currently 20 people on the kidney transplant list. This includes those active on the list and those on medical hold, usually for updated testing, transient medical problems or dental clearance. There are an additional 12 people under evaluation and another dozen are interested or in the process of referral to a transplant center.

At three years after listing for a kidney, typically 18 percent received a living donor kidney, 26 percent a deceased donor organ and 20 percent either died or were too ill to remain listed. It is estimated that nationally 17 people die each day waiting for an organ.

Mount Baker Foundation to host live kidney donation forum

Mount Baker Foundation (MBF) will host a living kidney donation forum at the Squalicum Boathouse from noon to 2 p.m. Sunday, September 10.

Kidney donors and recipients will speak on their experiences and transplant experts will provide additional information and answer questions, according to a MBF press release. Lunch will be provided.

Dr. William Lombard, a retired

nephrologist on the forum panel, has a goal to end the kidney transplant waiting list in Whatcom County. Lombard said in the release that live kidney donation is more cost-effective than deceased donor organ transplantation and dialysis.

“If we can increase our rate of living kidney donation we will decrease our reliance on dialysis, which is the most expensive

and high-risk form of kidney replacement therapy,” he wrote in a statement.

Dialysis social worker Angela Krzysiek said in the release that it was important to spread education on the live kidney donations as diabetes is now an epidemic and the top cause of kidney disease.

To register, email Maria Macpherson at maria@mtbakerfoundation. org or sign up at bit.ly/45FvAZA

Dr. Lombard is a retired nephrologist and past medical director of the Mt. Baker Kidney Center who volunteers at the Mount Baker Foundation.

•

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

• Laser Treatments - hair removal, photo facial, RF

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

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

s Dr. William Lombard.

Courtesy photo

File photo

There are books that love books; books that extol the virtues of books; books that fixate on the very nature of books; and then there are books that are heartfelt love letters to the power of books. “The Storied Life of A.J. Fikry” falls into the latter category.

As one may guess, the novel revolves around the life of one A.J. Fikry, a bookstore proprietor on a small island community. We join Fikry’s story in medias res: He’s a surly mid-life widower who finds solace in the bottle over that of the compa -

ny of others. With the loss of his wife, he’s lost the passion for life and his vocation. Fikry is ready to cash in on the sale of a rare book in his possession and retire early. However, on awakening from one of his nightly binges, Fikry finds the priceless book has been stolen in the night. From this premise, Gabrielle Zevin crafts a heartwarming story of connections, community, family, love, loss and grief, and, of course, the power of books and stories to heal and unite us.

Zevin writes with wit and humor, in a light and approachable manner, but also digs deep into the hard places of life, keeping

the story from becoming insipid or cloying. The story’s other protagonists are each intricate and fleshed out enough to warrant their own stories but play as perfect foils for A.J. Fikry’s journey.

Where Zevin really shines in creating the story’s setting: a bookstore that is a community hub, with something to offer everyone, and a place that fosters true connection and conversation.

Community is something we all struggle to find at times in our lives and knowing that there’s a place to go to start to fill that void is reassuring, and it’s something all bookstores

and libraries aspire to do. There are many meaningful elements that make up A.J. Fikry’s “storied life,” but perhaps most magical is the place for community his vocation fosters.

“The Storied Life of A.J. Fikry” is the September selection for the Books and Bites book group. Read the book and then join Books and Bites at 1 p.m. Friday, September 15 at Blaine Public Library for a time of community and lively conversation. For more information on the event, visit the WCLS website at wcls. libcal.com/event/9738091.

Jonathan Jakobitz is an avid reader and the branch manager of the Blaine Public Library.

Birch Bay book club review: “Jackdaws” by Ken Follett

B y d ianne

M arrs - s M i T h

This World War ll spy thriller takes place a few weeks before D-Day. It centers around a group of women instrumental in helping the Allied war effort and the German officer pursuing them.

Flick is a member of the French Resistance. Having one failed attempt to destroy the telephone exchange in Sainte-Cecile, France, she assembles the Jackdaws. Each member brings their own skill to the team: A telephone engineer, an explosives expert, an aristocrat, a markswoman, a tough prison inmate and a driver. These six women will pose as cleaners to infiltrate the exchange, taking it down before D-Day occurs. Flick creates her plan of attack, and their harrowing mission starts.

Dieter is a German intelligence officer and skilled interrogator. Under field marshal Erwin Rommel’s command, his job is to learn about the French Resistance. Seeing Flick’s first failed attempt to destroy the exchange, Dieter is determined to gain more knowledge about the

resistance. He hatches his own plan to infiltrate the French Resistance, stop the Jackdaws and capture Flick.

As Flick starts sensing their mission might be in jeopardy, she changes plans to throw Dieter off their trail. As his obsession to capture Flick grows, our spy thriller picks up pace, with our main characters looking to outsmart each other and complete their mission, as they try and survive.

This book is available at wcls. org or on our Libby app. Like audiobooks? I highly recommend listening to this book, which is narrated by Emilia Fox.

“Jackdaws” is the September selection for the Friends of Birch Bay Library Book Club. The group meets 4-5:30 p.m. on the third Wednesday of the month at the Bookmobile stop, 7948 Birch Bay Drive, and is open to all.

Dianne Marrs-Smith is the Lynden Public Library manager and Friends of Birch Bay Library president. She reads and listens to a variety of different books, loves getting book recommendations and her favorite genre is horror.

s Jonathan Jakobitz holds “The Storied Life of A.J. Fikry.” Courtesy photo

s Dianne Marrs-Smith. Courtesy photo

s “Jackdaws” by Ken Follett. Courtesy image

IN THE SUPERIOR COURT FOR SNOHOMISH COUNTY STATE OF WASHINGTON In re the Matter and Estate of: KAYE LEORA LUBACH, Deceased. No. 23-4-01421-31. NOTICE TO CREDITORS. RCW 11.40.030

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 such 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 section RCW 11.40.051 and 11.40.060. This bar is effective as to claims against both the decedent’s probate and non-probate assets.

Notice of First Publication: August 31, 2023

Personal Representative: Karly S. Lubach, Attorney for Personal Representative: Margaret L. Sanders, WSBA #26452 Sanders Elder Law P. O. Box 3357 Edmonds, WA 98020 (425) 640-8686 Court of probate proceedings Snohomish County Superior Court Cause number: No. 23-4-01421-31

IN THE SUPERIOR COURT OF THE STATE OF WASHINGTON IN AND FOR THE COUNTY OF WHATCOM In re the Matter and Estate of: MYRNA JEAN BROOKS, Deceased. No. 23-4-0082537. PROBATE NOTICE TO CREDITORS. RCW 11.40.030. 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 notice was not provided under RCW Chapters 11.40 or 11.42, the creditor must present the claim within twenty-four months after the decedent’s date of death. 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.

Notice of First Publication: Sept. 7, 2023

Personal Representative:

Randall G. Schultz, Presented by:

Whatcom Law Group, P.S.

Casie C. Rodenberger, WSBA #54384 Attorney for Personal Representative PO Box 1258 / 289 H Street Blaine, WA 98231-1258 (360) 332-7000; Fax: (360) 332-6677

IN THE SUPERIOR COURT OF THE STATE OF WASHINGTON IN AND FOR THE COUNTY OF WHATCOM In re the Matter and Estate of: HILDA VERA WOOD, Deceased. No. 23-4-0081237. PROBATE NOTICE TO CREDITORS. RCW 11.40.030. 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.

Notice of First Publication: August 31, 2023

Personal Representative: SHARON SWANSON, Presented by: Whatcom Law Group, P.S. Casie C. Rodenberger, WSBA #54348 Attorney for Personal Representative PO Box 1258 / 289 H Street Blaine, WA 98231-1258 (360) 332-7000; Fax: (360) 332-6677

BLAINE, BIRCH BAY & SEMIAHMOO

4843

6887 Holeman Avenue

Nootka Lp

4439 Carstan Lp

MLS

$560,000 Bay

border access - or zip down Bay Road to be in Bellingham in 20 minutes.

Leah Crews 360-305-4747

7806 Birch Bay Dr Unit #910

MLS #2154426

$380,000

Jacobs Landing, front of complex, westerly facing, water view

Condo! Enjoy BBQs and sunsets while overlooking the beach of Birch Bay from your private deck! The Complex offers an indoor pool, hot tub, tennis, racquetball & basketball courts. Beach access is a 2-minute walk from your front door! Area restaurants and entertainment venues within walking distance. So, if it’s beachcombing, crabbing, clamming or just wading in the waves then consider Jacobs Landing in the heart of Birch Bay! Complex allows Airbnb nightly rentals.

Jeff Carrington 360-220-3224

MLS #2150205

$960,000

Absolutely stunning, waterfront haven offers unparalleled 180-degree vistas of the bay, islands, & mountains. Discover a charming, intimate, & updated retreat plus private beach. Complete renovation was done inside and out over the past 12 years. Recent upgrades include new roofing, AC, fencing, decks, dual view enhancing sliding doors, thoughtful landscaping & enhanced drainage. Presently flourishing as a sought-after short-term rental, this property equally lends itself to year-round residency. Relish awe-inspiring sunsets & seamlessly host gatherings for friends and loved ones, thanks to ample parking and garage. Large lot size offers potential to substantially increase floor space. Enjoy all that Birch Bay has to offer!

Matt

Berry 360-389-0104

8610 White Rd

MLS #2153599

$439,000

Permit ready low-bank waterfront lot in Birch Bay Village. Property backs directly onto beach with spectacular views of the bay and Mt Baker. Topographic Survey shows level site with 60.2 ft of beachfront. Sale also includes Site Plan with setbacks, Cultural Resources/ Archaeology Report, and Tsunami Hazard Report with Ordinary High-Water Mark. Comprehensive information to expedite your development process. Water, sewer, electricity, and natural gas available in street. Enjoy all that Birch Bay Village has to offer, including private marina, boat launch, 24/7 security, swimming pool, golf course, saltwater beaches, tennis courts, parks, and more. 15-minute drive to Birch Bay Square, I-5, Blaine, and the Canadian Border. Gerry Allen 360-920-0563

9535 Semiahmoo Pkwy #B304

MLS #2153910 $434,900

Welcome home to Carstan Loop! Nestled in friendly affordable neighborhood of Anchor Park. Beautiful 1312 sq.ft. 3-bedroom, 1.75-bathroom home is waiting for you. Built in 2003, home offers everything you need for comfortable living. You’ll love the inviting interior with open living, dining, and kitchen. Ample size of the primary bedroom provides a cozy retreat. Step outside and discover the large backyard with a garden shed and a fully fenced yard, providing privacy and plenty of space for outdoor activities. This home comes complete with a 2-car garage, extra storage space, and a loft above the garage door. No more parking woes with the oversized driveway. Start creating lasting memories in this delightful gem today! Brady DenBleyker (360) 815-0210

MLS #2156471

$6,000,000

First time offered, Borderline Lake and adjacent development property of 105.83 acres features a 2,350 ft competition water ski lake with a long history as a private and competition waterski lake serving Western Washington & Canada. Located minutes from the Canadian border, this property features a private ski lake, two boat houses, boat launch, judging tower, and multiple docks. A network of well-maintained trails, land for a potential development of a 2nd ski lake and/or single-family cluster development sites offer upside opportunity for this property. A wide variety of future recreation venues are possible in this one-of-a-kind property, either as a private estate or a multi-functional recreational property.

Bob Sandoz (425) 466-6705

MLS #2142324

$978,500

The view dreams are made of...absolutely breathtaking sunsets, dazzling water & city night lights...all front & center from this penthouse stunner! Radiating PNW charm, soaring ceilings set the tone & every thoughtfully executed detail is spot on. Luxurious spa-like primary suite overlooks Salish Sea and is privately tucked away from second bedroom w/ensuite + additional office/den. Marin owners enjoy exclusive beach access, 2 assigned garage parking spaces & storage unit with elevator access. Owner upgrades include custom closets & lighting & outdoor patio furniture. Don’t miss the chance to be steps away from Semiahmoo Marina & Resort…featuring pickleball, year-round outdoor heated pool, hot tub, gym & spa. Jen Freeman 360-815-0803

MLS #2076794

$1,349,000

Semiahmoo lakefront home in Turnberry a gated community. Seller financing option available at 5.5% fixed. $10,000 allowance for new interior paint, exterior paint is new. $10,000 allowance for new appliances. Quality build, 4055 sq. ft. +/- extensive tile work, custom fir built-ins, & exceptional selections of granite & lighting finishes, natural gas, & central vac. Primary/ensuite on the main floor with sauna. Great room concept with custom quality kitchen & office. Upstairs, there are 2 private guest en-suites & a sizable bonus room above garage & workout area. Home is complete with one of kind lakefront setting & unforgettable beauty, Golf, marina, heath activities, islands. 2 hours from Seattle & 8 miles to Canadian Border. Brian Southwick (360) 815-6638

8849 Goldeneye Lane

BIRCH BAY BIRCH

Road Rules ...

From page 2 moment the driver figured out they were about to pass a patrol car. The nose of their car would dip as they hit the brakes and moved to the right lane behind me. After several cars stacked up, another one would come up in the passing lane and do the same thing, but now there was no room to move to the right. Eventually we’d have a convoy of cars traveling exactly at the speed limit.

I also remember, as a new deputy, getting a middle-of-the-night call for a burglary alarm. I flipped on my emergency lights and started to accelerate. My training officer flipped the lights back off and said, “Nine out of ten of these alarms are false. Don’t put yourself and everyone else on the road at risk for a false alarm.”

Even if an officer isn’t responding at high speeds, the flashing lights alone induce other drivers to sometimes make dangerous choices. He offered an alternative: Consider the risk factors – traffic volume, visibility, road conditions – and drive at a speed that’ll get you to the call promptly without inducing the driving risks of an emergency response. We called it an expedited response.

To finish the story, after being the cause of several traffic jams, I decided that driving a few miles an hour over the speed limit was better than packing a bunch of cars together on the freeway. By going 74 mph in a 70 mph zone, those backups disappeared. You wouldn’t think a small increase would make a difference, but it suggested that most of the drivers, even if t hey were speeding, were keeping it close to the speed limit.

Years later, when I turned into a traffic safety nerd, I confirmed that hypothesis by borrowing a radar gun for a completely non-scientific survey of vehicle speeds on the freeway. Turns out that almost all of them were within 5 mph of the speed limit.

In the examples I just gave, was I justified in speeding? I was certainly able to rationalize it. However, in Washington, the law permits an emergency vehicle to speed only when responding to an emergency call, and only when using “visual signals” (flashing emergency lights.)

I suspect though, the expedited responses don’t have you concerned; what probably prompted your question was seeing police zooming by for no apparent reason. The law is clear: It’s never okay (or legal) for police vehicles to speed just because they feel that they can get away with it. We know speed is a risk factor in driving. Speeding contributes to a third of fatal crashes in Washington. For every one percent increase in vehicle speed, traffic fatalities increase by four percent. Speeding decreases a driver’s time to react to a hazard and increases the severity of a crash. No one is immune from the consequences of speeding, and we all have a responsibility to respect the speed limit.

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

OBITUARIES

Todd Jeffcoat

June 12,1965 - July 23, 2023

Todd passed away in the early morning hours of July 23, 2023 surrounded by loved ones at Sutter Memorial Hospital in Sacramento, CA. He lived in Blaine for most of his life but had been living in California for the past two decades. Todd was a hardworking man who loved to drive his truck, show his skills on the grill, and have a good laugh with friends and family. He was a man of integrity with a very sensitive heart. If he loved and respected you, you knew it without a doubt.

He is preceded in death by his grandmother, Virginia Hahn; his dad Ray Jeffcoat; and his father Bob Setnik. Todd is survived by his oldest daughter Taysia Seiler, son-in-law Ryan, and grandchildren Rylie (11) and Logan (9); and his youngest daughter Hayley Hopkins, son-in-law Jon, and their newborn Graham (6 days). He also leaves his fiancé Darci Hazlewood; mother Sheila Jeffcoat; sister Michele Freeman; brothers Mike Jeffcoat and Mike Setnik; along with his uncle Danny Kimbro and numerous other extended family members.

Todd will be greatly missed by all those he left behind. Until we meet again. We will always love and miss you!

Please join us in celebrating his life on September 24 at 2 p.m. at the bp Heron Center in Blaine where Todd grew up and spent most of his childhood and young adulthood.

Harald Erik Pfeil

August 27, 1926 – September 2, 2023

Harald Erik Pfeil was born in Denmark on August 27, 1926 to Carl and Christine Pfeil. Harald passed away on Saturday, September 2, 2023 at the age of 97.

Harald met his wife Kirsten Krarup before he immigrated to USA in 1950. Upon returning to Denmark for a visit, Harald married Kirsten on January 18, 1958. They both moved to the United States where they lived in Montana for four years before moving to Lynden, in 1963. In 1991, Harald and Kirsten moved to Birch Bay Village.

Survivors include Harald’s son Jesper, of Blaine and daughter Tina Kenefick, husband James, and their children Connor, Aidan and Rowan of Pacific Palisades, California.

Harald is preceded in death by his wife, Kirsten; daughter-inlaw, Jackie (Jesper); parents Carl and Christine; and brothers Carl and Neils. No funeral or memorial service is immediately planned. The family will notify loved ones in the future when a service is scheduled. In lieu of flowers, please make donations to PeaceHealth Whatcom Hospice.

Boris Romanowsky

May 25, 1958 – August 25, 2023

Boris Romanowsky passed away on August 25, 2023, at age 65. There are no words that can fully and adequately describe him – he was truly one of a kind. He lived his life fully and on his own terms, up until the very end.

One of his top priorities in life was his physical fitness. He was known for his wild and unconventional adventures, and those who knew him knew that his idea of an “easy hike” was very different from most. He lived by the “KISS” method and believed that all you needed for a good adventure were tennis shoes, a t-shirt, and a bathing suit.

Boris grew up in the San Fernando Valley and graduated from Reseda High School in 1975. He started his career in law enforcement in 1984 as a Correctional Officer at the men’s prison in San Luis Obispo. He was soon promoted to correctional sergeant and transferred to RJ Donovan State Prison. In 1990, he became a parole officer, a job he held until he retired in 2013. He was never short on war stories from his years of working at the parole offices in Oxnard and Santa Barbara.

After retirement, he spent a year in Tahoe where he worked on writing and self-publishing his book, “Playtime is Over,” based on his experiences as a parole officer. He attempted a run for governor in 2018 and at the time of his death was converting his book into a screenplay.

Boris would never sit still. If a friend or family member were in need, he would drop everything to make a “Bonzi Trip” and go wherever he was needed. In the last four years, he clocked in over 250,000 miles on his car doing just that.

After he was diagnosed with terminal cancer in 2020 (a recurrence from a bout in 2005) he never slowed down. He continued to exercise daily and would send pictures of himself bench pressing while wearing his chemo pump. His trusty clipboard with his yellow pad of stats was always nearby.

In 2022, after living in California for his whole life, he bought a property in Blaine. On July 4, 2023, he accomplished his dream of hosting his whole family at his house, dubbed “Basecamp Blaine”. His greatest joy in life was raising his daughters and he would share their accomplishments with anybody who would listen –often to the point of embarrassing them!

He is predeceased by his parents and six of his ten siblings. He is survived by his daughters, Sasha and Launa, their spouses, three grandchildren, four siblings, dozens of nieces and nephews, and innumerable friends.

In lieu of flowers, please spend an afternoon in nature on an “easy hike” and help a friend in need.

Funeral services were held on Friday, September 1, 2023.

sheriff’s repOrts

August 16, 7:41 a.m.: Trespass cold call on Birch Bay Drive

August 30, 4:00 a.m.: DUI on Harborview and Forsberg Roads.

August 30, 2:44 p.m.: Vandalism cold call on Seashell Way.

August 30, 2:38 p.m.: Hit and run cold call on Birch Bay Drive.

August 30, 10:12 p.m.: Vandalism cold call on Birch Bay Lynden Road.

August 31, 9:46 a.m.: Domestic violence cold call on Harborview Road.

August 31, 9:05 p.m.: Fireworks on Harborview Road.

September 1, 12:39 a.m.: Simple assault on Harrison Avenue.

September 1, 3:19 p.m.: Suspicious vehicle on Birch Bay Lynden Drive.

September 1, 3:57 p.m.: Domestic – physical on Harrison Avenue.

September 1, 7:44 p.m.: DUI on G Street.

September 2, 1:28 a.m.: Hit and run, DUI arrest on Haynie Road.

September 2, 9:07 a.m.: Theft cold call on Blaine Road.

September 2, 10:00 a.m.: Theft cold call on Birch Bay Drive.

September 2, 12:31 p.m.: Theft cold call on Birch Bay Drive.

ACROSS

September 3, 7:41 a.m.: Fireworks on Sweet Road.

September 3, 11:53 a.m.: Suspicious circumstances cold call on Oertel Drive.

September 3, 3:37 p.m.: Civil standy on Stein Road, Custer.

September 3, 6:08 p.m.: Suspicious vehicle on Halibut Drive and Bay Road.

Coming up

September 4, 9:14 a.m.: Bicycle theft cold call on Birch Bay Drive.

September 4, 9:51 a.m.: Theft cold call on Harborview Road.

September 4, 1:32 p.m.: Runaway cold call on Halibut Drive.

September 4, 2:49 p.m.: Neighborhood dispute cold call on Nootka Loop.

pOLiCe repOrts

August 12, 7:50 a.m.: Suspicious vehicle on Cedar Street

August 25, 3:16 p.m.: Burglary on H Street.

August 26, 6:44 a.m.: Suspicious vehicle on Harrison Avenue.

August 27, 11:50 a.m.: Child abuse on Alder Street.

August 27, 5:21 p.m.: Vehicle prowl on Adelia Street.

August 27, 7:04 p.m.: Suicidal subject on H Street.

August 28, 12:34 a.m.: Domestic – physical on H Street.

August 28, 5:00 p.m.: Suspicious vehicle on 3rd Street.

August 29, 8:09 a.m : Vandalism

CrOssWOrd

1. Type of crayon

7. Fashion accessory

10. Most cerebral

12. Incline from vertical

13. Dependent on

14. Broken in

15. Strongly desires

16. Mounted soldier

17. Ad __: when necessary

18. Cattle

19. Ottoman military commanders

21. __ student, learns healing

22. Composed in poetic meter

27. Promotional material

28. Where people live

33. Sodium

34. Embarrassing

36. Medical man

37. Mother of Hermes

38. One who saves the day

39. Tooth caregiver

40. Not clothed

41. Slope covered with loose stones

44. Used to cook

45. Praises enthusiastically 48. Rooney is a famous one 49. Beekeeper 50. Pigpen 51. Potato chip brand

DOWN

1. Living quarters

2. Horizontal passage

3. Attacks

4. Vietnamese offensive

5. Midway between east and southeast

6. Confined (abbr.)

7. Book of Esther antagonist

8. Port in Yemen

9. CNN’s founder

10. Type of bulb

11. Prepare

12. Promoted

14. Dinner jackets

17. Partner to cheese

18. Nebraska city

20. Human gene

23. Pays no attention to

24. Lowland South American plain

25. Blood group

26. Mauna __, Hawaiian volcano

29. Atomic #37

30. Unit of electrical resistance

31. Jeweled crowns

32. Nastiest

35. Traditional cars need it

36. Bowler hat

38. Robust

40. Not straight

41. Stony waste matter

42. Have an interest in

on Boblett Street.

August 29, 10:55 a.m.: Burglary on Canada View Drive.

August 29, 2:29 p.m.: Vandalism on Marine Drive.

August 30, 11:50 a.m.: Abandoned vehicle on G Street.

August 30, 8:31 p.m.: Vandalism on D Street.

August 31, 7:40 p.m.: Fight on Martin Street.

August 31, 7:56 p.m.: Vehicle prowl on Shearwater Road.

September 1, 12:35 a.m.: Simple assault on Harrison Avenue.

Report by Blaine Police Department

43. Jacob __, journalist

44. Maintains possession of

45. Swiss river

46. Average cost of market goods

47. Spanish soldier: El __

Weather

Trivia at The Vault: Thursday, September 7, 7 p.m., The Vault Wine Bar + Bistro, 277 G Street. This week’s theme: History. Info: thevaultwine.com. Whatcom Water Week: September 9-17. Several events at various locations around Whatcom County. Full list of events at: whatcomwin. org/water-week-events.

Run with the Chums 5K Fun Run and Smolt Sprint: Saturday, September 9, BP Highlands, 6898 Point Whitehorn Road. Free 5K fun run and smolt sprint for kids under 10 to kick off Whatcom Water Week. Register: whatcomcd.org/run-with-the-chums.

Family Field Day at Birch Bay State Park: Monday, September 11, 9–11 a.m., pb Heron Center at Birch Bay State Park. Explore Birch Bay State Park with Beach Naturalists.

Diabetes Prevention and Treatment: Tuesday, September 12, 10:30 a.m., Blaine Senior Center, 763 G Street. Dr. Sandhya Gelou addresses people with prediabetes or at risk of diabetes. Free. Info: blaineseniorcenter.org.

League of Women Voters Presentation: Thursday, September 14, 11 a.m.–2 p.m, Blaine Senior Center, 763 G Street. Discussing candidates and ballot measures for the November 7 general election. Free. Info: blaineseniorcenter.org.

Live Music at Blaine Senior Center: Friday, September 15, 5–7 p.m., Blaine Senior Center, 763 G Street. Featuring: Jaded Lovers performing country rock and classics. Free. Info: Blaineseniorcenter.com.

Gardening Green Course: Starts Saturday, September 16, 10 a.m.–noon, bp Heron Center at Birch Bay State Park. In the 5-week course, learn the essential principles for successful landscape gardening that is easier on the environment – using more know-how and less fertilizer and pesticides. Cost: $35 for soil lab test. Register at: extension.wsu.edu/whatcom/nr/gardening-green. Sponsored by WSU Whatcom County Extension.

Big Bucks Bingo: Saturday, September 16, Blaine Senior Center, 763 G Street. Over $275 in prizes. Early bird starts at 12:30 p.m. Regular bingo at 1 p.m. Eight games $15. Lunch available for $8. Info: 360/332-8040.

Supper with the Superintendent: Monday, September 18, 6 p.m., Blaine School District roundhouse building, 770 Mitchell Street. The community is invited to ask Blaine School District superintendent, Dr. Christopher Granger questions regarding Blaine schools. Light dinner provided. Estate Planning for Success: Thursday, September 21, 6 p.m., Blaine Senior Center, 763 G Street. Learn how to avoid probate, running out of money due to long-term care costs and how to avoid becoming a burden on your family. Free. Info: Blainechamber.com.

The King: An Evening with Elvis: Friday, September 22, 5 p.m., Blaine Senior Center, 763 G Street. Enjoy live music by Jeffrey Elvis, the number one Elvis tribute show in the northwest. Tickets: $8. Reservations required. Info: blaineseniorcenter.org.

Ongoing

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

The Bridge Food Bank: Fridays 2:30–4:30 p.m., The Bridge Community Hope Center’s new location, 7620 Birch Bay Drive. New registration required at thebridgehope.com or call 360/366-8763. Volunteers welcome.

CAP Clothing Bank: Mondays and Fridays, 9 a.m.–noon and Wednesdays, 5-7 p.m. 508 G Street. The Community Assistance Program clothing bank is now located in the basement of the CAP Center providing free clothing and linens. Donations accepted only during open hours or by special arrangement. Info: blainecap.org or 360/392-8484.

Meals on Wheels Frozen Meals: Thursdays 11:30 a.m.–noon, Blaine Senior Center, 763 G Street. Adults 60+ pick up five frozen meals. Suggested donation $5 per meal or whatever is affordable. First come, first serve basis. Info: 360/332-8040.

Senior Community Meals: Monday–Friday, 11:30 a.m.– 2:30 p.m., Blaine Senior Center, 763 G Street. Suggested donation of $5 per meal ($8.50 if under 60) or whatever is affordable. First come, first serve basis. Info: 360/332-8040.

The Bridge Clothing Bank Boutique: Open Wednesday–Saturday, 11 a.m.–4 p.m. Donations accepted Wednesdays, 11 a.m.– 2 p.m. or by appointment. The Bridge Community Hope Center’s new location, 7620 Birch Bay Drive.

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

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.

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.

Birch Bay Book Club: Wednesday, September 20, 4–5:30 p.m., Birch Bay Vogt Library, 7948 Birch Bay Drive. September title: Jackdaws by Ken Follett. Blaine Book Club: Friday, September 15, 1 p.m., Blaine Library, 610 3rd Street. September title: The Storied Life of A.J. Fikry by Gabrielle Zevin. Info: Kelly at 360/305-3637.

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

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

ANSWERS: THENORTHERNLIGHT.COM

chitectural projects to focus on drawing, painting and writing.

“I am sick and tired of the politics that go with architecture, but the actual desire around creating spaces stays,” he said. “I’ve designed a house back in Connecticut. Maybe it’ll get built. Maybe not. I don’t know yet. I’ve discovered that I see space. I see the social significance of it. I feel it.”

Freschi showed a natural talent for architecture as a young man while in school at the University of British Columbia, and his graduate work took him to Europe where he studied in London at the Architectural Association School of Architecture. For the next few years, he worked in Milan and Switzerland.

“It seems to be that I was born to be an architect. It’s in my blood,” Freschi said.

It was during Expo 86 that he found global recognition as the fair’s chief architect. Freschi saw it as a chance to combine urbanism and wonderment.

He spent months researching the history of the World’s Fairs before presenting his idea for a large geodesic dome that is now home to the Science World museum.

Within the same time frame as Expo 86, Freschi was commissioned by Aga Khan IV, the spiritual leader of the Ismaili Muslim faith, to design the Ismaili Centre in Burnaby, Canada.

The spiritual site ended up being one of Freschi’s most important works, he said. The multidomed structure incorporates and honors traditional Muslim architectural aspects while allowing Freschi the freedom to add a few of his own touches.

The thick glass panes on the sides and skylights of the building ripple gold light through the prayer hall. Abstracted iconography is transferred on both inner and outer panes, which Freschi said creates an illusion of vibrating text to someone peering up

and an angle from below.

The ceiling of the downstairs, which houses children’s classes, is carved into a series of octagonal patterns that echo sound.

Freschi is most pleased with the carpet, which has a domed pattern carved into the wool.

“I took my mother, who knows nothing about architecture, and doesn’t care, into that room, and she saw the carpet and the first thing she did was sit down,” Freschi said. “Now, this is an Italian woman who doesn’t sit on the floor, but she did because she could feel it with her feet.”

Freschi said he created these “tricks” to provide small pauses that allow reflection, adding that in spiritual architecture, the space is less important than how people want the space to make them feel.

The completion of both Expo 86 and the Ismaili Centre led Freschi into education. He was dean of the School of Architecture and Planning at the State University of New York at Buffalo where he taught a four-carousel slide lecture titled “Sanity and Insanity” about the two large-scale projects,

as well as a class for first years called “On Picking One’s Nose” about the significance of the foyer.

“There’s always a small space where you can straighten your dress out or pick your nose –just moments – and this is what humanizes otherwise inhuman design, small things that change

wonder into Blaine.

“I’ve been saying for many years that this is a time for the small town,” he said, adding that the city of Blaine has so much it could celebrate through urban architecture, predominantly its relationship to the water.

Despite getting requests from the community to join committees and voice his thoughts at public meetings, Freschi said that he’s dealt with enough back-andforth in his 86 years to bother with it any longer. He’s happy focusing on the possibilities.

relationship with the water better highlighted in civic life and urban art.

“When you do a timeless piece, you create a space around the street,” Freschi said. “The street isn’t just for cars, streets are for people, and streets are rooms. They have a beautiful ceiling, the sky, and a beautiful floor called the ground.”

In addition to wanting to see more aesthetic changes, Freschi said he believes the small town is the precise venue for problem-solving when it comes to class divisions and affordable housing.

“This is a transition point and it’s irreversible, so we have to get serious about it,” he said. “It’s not going to be solved at the big scale. Most urban theory always tries to address this question of scale, and it can’t. Big things are very difficult to reverse. It’s like a ship.”

Freschi is no stranger to opposition. He said daily life is bogged down by functional realities; for him, it’s his hip, on which he had surgery in 2007 to remove cancerous growth. He’s returned for more procedures over the years as needed. He travels to Seattle for regular exams, and in recent years, no new cancerous growth has been detected.

“No matter where you go, there’s always the opposition,” he said. “People don’t like change. Got it, neither do I, but change happens.”

everything,” Freschi said.

His work in the 2000s took him to projects from downtown Tacoma to South Korea’s Kyonggi University.

Now that he and Ainsworth are enjoying their modest workload, Freschi said he’s had time to put some of his signature sense of

“I suggested that if they form a committee we should just stop everything – not what people want, not what committees are all about – but just do something to look at unconstrained future vision,” Freschi said. “You have to wonder what Blaine could be and tap into wonderment. It’s not just the wonderment of those with a vested interest. It’s the wonderment of children. It’s the wonderment of the very old. It’s the wonderment of people saying, ‘Where the hell is Blaine?’”

He would like to see Blaine’s

For the future of Blaine’s development, Freschi said he hopes those in power will take into consideration the voice of the user, which he said should be the children of the children, and no longer the grandparents – even if he’s included in the latter demographic. He hopes to see the community come together to wonder about their desires for Blaine’s ever-evolving identity.

“You don’t have to have many cathedrals, you don’t have to have many city halls and you don’t have to have many parks,” Freschi said. “You just need a few things, but make those celebratory.”

“You have to wonder what Blaine could be and tap into wonderment .”

– Bruno Freschi

s Architect and Blaine resident Bruno Freschi stands in his Blaine home that he designed for him and his wife, Vaune Ainsworth. The property includes the main house, a backyard with a pergola and a detached guest house with his and hers matching art studios.

Photos by Madisun Tobisch

s A workbench in Ainsworth’s side of the home studio she shares with Freschi. Music, poems, sculptures and paintings make work of nearly every inch of available space. Ainsworth and Freschi completed construction on their Blaine home before the Covid-19 pandemic started and have since lived in what they call “paradise.”

s The home of Freschi and Ainsworth has an open floor plan that allows visitors to look from the hall, through the walk-in closet and bathroom, into the backyard.

s Ainsworth’s love letter collage and Freschi’s ink self-portrait are some of the art found in the couple’s Blaine home and studio.